It was recently announced that former ring great, Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker was added to Zab “Super” Judah’s training camp in preparations for Judah’s fight against Kaizer Mabuza for the IBF junior welterweight title.
First off, I always like to see a gifted fighter making a comeback. I think Zab Judah is one of the most gifted fighters in the sport. Unfortunately, Zab looked average once he stepped up his opposition against Lucas Matthyse. Since he announced his comeback, I have believe that his skills and dedication can bring him back to the elite level.
No matter how the gifts and talents within a fighter or trainer, there is always a wall. Yoel Judah, who has trained Zab for all 48 of his fights is an great trainer. Against Armando Santa Cruz, the Judah’s introduced Eddie Mustafa Mohammad. Zab looked great with a 3rd round knockout. Against Matthyse, Judah did enough to win, but did not look spectacular. As far as I know, that was an all Judah camp. Yoel and his son have hit the wall. They possess great chemistry and have created a great fighter in Zab. At this point in his career, especially in the junior welterweight division, Zab needs that extra pop that will put him in contention for the number one 140 pounder in the world.
And we introduce Sweet Pea. Whitaker is one of my favorite fighters of all time. He always came to fight, was slick, had a rubberband waist, and could counterpunch unlike anyone else. Pernell was a very different and entertaining fighter.
Whitaker, who after retirement has trained several fighters, was recently added to help in training preparations for Judah. Whitaker, who’s fighters have never reached the status of Zab Judah, now has the chance to be part of a team that can achieve greatness. Team Judah has proven successful. Whitaker has the experience, and similar attributes of Zab. They are both southpaw, can counter punch, and have similar movement. After watching tape, both Whitaker and Judah have a similar pivot move to avoid punches. Both make knockout use of their left hands, Judah the uppercut and Whitaker the straight cross.
Bringing this the Sweet Pea element into an already successful, but wall hitting team will help everyone grow and break down that wall. Mabuza, who is a rugged fighter will pose problems for Judah. I was present for Mabuza’s win against Kendell Holt. Mabuza, who was a huge underdog has a big heart and a relentless fighting style. He can punch, and will keep punching. Holt quit on the stool.
I never count an opponent out. This is boxing. Anything can happen. Maybe I’m dreaming- blinded by my respect of Whitaker and liking of Judah, maybe this will be reality; Zab Judah’s game will be elevated to a new level come March 5th.