(Photo credit: Tom Casino/Showtime) By Justin Jones & Paul “Paparazzi” Jones: Washington, DC — There was no better way to describe Lamont Peterson’s performance last night at the DC Armory against challenger Dierry Jean other than “locked in.”
Peterson (32-2-1, 16 KOs), the reigning IBF Jr. Welterweight Champ, looked like a starved beast ready to attack as he stalked Jean (25-1, 17 KOs) from the second round on. The DC native landed thudding shots to the body, head turning left hooks, and stinging right hands en route to a unanimous decision victory in Showtime Championship Boxing’s main event (official scores were: 118-111, 116-112, and 115-113).
Although Peterson bested Jean in most of their exchanges and was the clear aggressor, Jean didn’t back down or go away easily. Indeed, Jean landed a good number of power shots of his own, and showed a sturdy chin. It was apparent, however, that Jean is not among the elite at 140 pounds.
“Many people questioned how I would be mentally and physically after the [Lucas] Matthysse (34-3, 32 KOs, 1 NC) fight, but I showed tonight that I’m over that loss and I’m right back where I was before the loss,” Peterson said. “I stuck to game plan tonight and I was pleased with my performance, especially with all the hometown fans coming out and supporting me.”
The win marks Peterson’s second successful title defense of the IBF Jr. Welterweight World Championship and he remains undefeated at home in DC. With thousands of local fight fans in attendance chanting, “Peterson”, “DC”, and “USA”, one wonders why Peterson would fight anywhere else.
“If it was up to me I’d never leave [D.C.]. I love my city and my city loves me,” Peterson proclaimed in his post-fight interview.
As for what’s next, in his post-fight presser, Peterson mentioned a possible unification bout with Danny Garcia (27-0, 16 KOs; WBA, WBC, RING Champion). If Garcia has other plans, a move up to the deep and talented pool of Welterweights is not out of the question.
Justin’s Ringside Peterson-Jean Scorecard: 116-112 (Peterson).
Author Contact: Justin Jones: Justinjones2112@gmail.com, @jusjones29
