If the former world champion had any supporters left over the last 18 months while out of boxing, you can bet they have all assuredly lost any hope or confidence Vicious Victor Ortiz will get back to championship form. Ortiz looked out of sorts and rusty in his return to the ring last night against Luis Collazo. Collazo (35-5, 18 KOs), a tough journeyman in the sport, has now won four straight fights and proved to be too much for Ortiz (29-5-2, 22 KOs) after his long layoff from the ring.
Ortiz was out of rhythm for both rounds of the fight; his punches were not sharp and his defense was careless, particularly in the second round when Collazo caught Ortiz with a counter right hook that ultimately put Ortiz to his knees and his head in the ropes. Ortiz was counted out after what was a very disappointing showing.
I have personally saw both the pros and cons to Ortiz but have, deep down, been hopeful he would make another strong push in boxing because of his charisma and his physical abilities. That said, I just don’t think he has the hunger or the rough life that he once had in his early boxing career. With stints on the big screen in Expendables 3, Dancing with the Stars, reality TV and other pop culture and financial engagements, the 26 year old just does not seem to have it. Although he did throw a very strong left hook; that had it been placed six inches higher, he very well might have knocked Collazo out, and we would not be talking about this. However, he made a very noticeable mistake and tried to throw another punch off balance as Collazo countered him, when Ortiz should have put his hands up and slipped out.
Unfortunately, I agree with Golden Boy Promoter Oscar De La Hoya who indicated on Twitter that Ortiz “should call it a day and enjoy his young life.” Maybe this will motivate Ortiz; however, if he was not already motivated by his detractors, I don’t think it will happen now. Either way, for himself, he needs to decide if he wants to be a world champion fighter, or if he just wants to be famous any way he can. Hopefully his performance in Expendables 3 is better than his return to the ring. If not, his future looks bleak. Ortiz is definitely at a crossroads.
By the way, Collazo don’t call out Mayweather and act like you control the venue. That was almost as pathetic as Ortiz’ performance last night. Call out a more realistic opponent like Keith Thurman or fellow Brooklyn fighter, Paulie Malignaggi.
Ortiz looked at a great shape, I believe he was ready for a fight, but his jaw was not. I just hope that he has some cash save and some outside financial investments. If he is damage good (Jaw) he most definitely should retire. Wishing him the best whatever decision he makes.
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