Trainer Jeff Mayweather was present at the ringside last Saturday for Vergil Ortiz Jr.’s fight against WBC interim junior middleweight champion Serhii Bohachuk. He expressed his opinion that Vergil lost the fight but was saved by a twelve-round majority decision from the judges. According to Jeff, WBA 154-lb champion Terence Crawford is significantly superior to Vergil Ortiz Jr., and therefore, it would not be in the best interest of the 26-year-old Texas native to face Crawford at this point. Jeff suggests that rather than focusing on Crawford, a better option for Vergil would be to have a rematch with Bohachuk to settle the controversy surrounding their previous fight.
Comparing the Fighters
Jeff Mayweather highlighted his belief that Crawford is a superior fighter to both Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Serhii Bohachuk. He mentioned that Crawford did not perform up to his normal standards in his last fight against Israil Madrimov, leading to speculation about the outcome if Crawford were to face either Ortiz or Bohachuk. Jeff emphasized the importance of the rematch between Vergil and Bohachuk as a means to improve both fighters’ skills and popularity, rather than rushing into a match with Crawford. He stressed that Crawford’s level of skill is far above that of Vergil and Bohachuk, making it a risky move for Vergil to step into the ring with him without further preparation.
Jeff’s Recommendations
In Jeff’s opinion, opting for a rematch with Bohachuk would be the wisest decision for Vergil Ortiz Jr. This would not only provide Vergil with an opportunity to dispel any doubts about his previous victory but also allow him to gain valuable experience and improve his overall performance in the ring. Jeff emphasized the need for Vergil to focus on building his skills and reputation through strategic fights that would benefit his long-term career prospects. By taking on opponents like Bohachuk and gradually advancing to face more formidable challengers, Vergil can enhance his chances of success in the competitive world of boxing. Jeff’s advice is aimed at guiding Vergil towards a more sustainable and successful path in his boxing career, rather than rushing into high-risk matches prematurely.