Just a few minutes ago, after a thrilling eight-round fight between two of the best young welterweight prospects in the world, West Jordan's Larry Gomez (seen above scoring a KO in an earlier bout) scored an eight-round split decision over previously unbeaten Top Rank-promoted boxer Brian Mendoza. We previewed this bout yesterday.
The scores were 77-75 twice for Gomez and 77-75 once for Mendoza. They consider the win an upset on ESPN-Plus, but we Utahns, having followed Larry's career, know better. This was no upset.
It was a great fight. Mendoza had the edge in the first two rounds as Gomez counter punched. Gomez, using aggression and sharp hooks, swept round three through five. Mendoza rallied to win round six with boxing skills. A key moment arrived late in round seven, a close round until Gomez hurt Mendoza with hard shots.
Gomez dominated round 8 over a tired, bloodied Mendoza. Both fighters fought with a lot of courage. Perhaps a re-match may be in the cards? In any event, we congratulate Larry and look forward to his next fight.
