by James Slater: Last night in Oklahoma, unbeaten heavyweight prospect Kevin Johnson kept his perfect record (one early draw aside) with a clear and unanimous points win over the durable Terry Smith. A KO wasn’t expected from the now 19-0-1(6) Johnson, nor did he provide one. Instead, he won by comfortably wide scores of 97-93, 97-93 and a closer tally of 96-94.
It really is time for the confident-talking Johnson to make his move up in class. We know he has a superb left jab in his arsenal, but other than this fine asset what else does the man known as “Kingpin” have to offer? A bout with a decent name would likely tell us. Johnson, from Atlanta, Georgia, is 28 years of age now, yet it is not clear whether or not he has made significant improvement since turning pro back in 2003. Certainly Johnson has not bettered his punching ability and talent for knocking guys out – “Kingpin” has not stopped a guy in well over a year. No, big punching is not the sole thing a heavyweight boxer needs, but there is a danger fans will soon become bored with Johnson.. You pretty much know, each time out, that he is going to use his speed and jab to box his way to a points victory – as was the case yet again last night.
Johnson’s chin remains a question mark at this point also. Can the 6’3″ big man take a shot? To repeat, a fight against a recognisable and still formidable name would likely give us many answers to many questions regarding the 240-pounder and his fighting ability. Johnson has said, however, that he wanted to face the “top guys” after dealing with Smith. Now that he has done so let’s hope he’s as good as his word. To be fair, Johnson has a number of things going for him. His jab, of course, but also self-belief, athleticism and dedication to training. Now would be a great time for him to get it on with the likes of Chris Arreola, Eddie Chambers, J.D Chapman and the like. Or even a Johnson-Audley Harrison fight (don’t laugh) would tell us something.
There is no time like the present, they say. In the case of Kevin Johnson and his move up in class, never has a truer word been said. Come on, “Kingpin,” show us what you’re made of!