By Mike Burnell: December 4th 2008 generated more questions about “Bad” Chad Dawson and the future of the Light Heavyweight division than it answered. In a dramatic back and forth battle Dawson emerged as the winner via unanimous 12 round decision versus grizzled veteran Glen “The Road Warrior” Johnson. The scores of 116-112 weren’t representative of the battle witnessed within the squared circle. While the judge’s decisions were unanimous the fight fans are anything but.
Dawson ripped fast, fluid combinations while Johnson walked him down and displayed effective aggression in his inimitable, workman like style. While southpaw Dawson certainly landed often Johnson matched him. Johnson seemed unfazed, absorbing crisp shots while Dawson was clearly shaken to his foundation on a number of occasions.
It appeared that the 39 year old Johnson had derailed the 26 year old Dawson Express. If nothing else experienced Glen Johnson 47-12-2 (32) had unquestionably locked Dawson 26-0 (17) in a life and death, career defining melee. In the end it was very exciting but lacked the conclusive victory for either fighter that hardcore fans crave.
While not uncommon in boxing, this was a fight supposed to be a coming out party for Dawson who was heavily touted as the future dominant Light Heavyweight Champion. While it established that Dawson has the heart to fight back from adversity it also showed that Glen Johnson is as dangerous now as he was when he sparked Roy Jones Jr. in 2004 and is a major force in the division despite those who would like to ignore him. Fighters in his division turn their heads and try to ignore him like we close our eyes to a bad memory. The difference is Johnson won’t go away when they open their eyes. He is a nightmare for anyone in the division.
Dawson followed his battle with Johnson with an uncompetitive unanimous decision over common opponent Antonio Tarver. While many hoped for a rematch with Johnson contractual demands dictated an unpopular and utterly unnecessary rematch with Tarver. Dawson emerged the victor as expected via overwhelming 12 round unanimous decision. In the interim Johnson stayed busy with wins over Aaron Norwood and Daniel Judah while lobbying for another match with Dawson.
Dawson understands the importance of the bout and was stripped of a meaningless strap from a greedy sanctioning body to make it happen. To his credit he is more concerned about becoming the Peoples Champion than an alphabet belt lapdog which is endearing and refreshing. This is a throwback mentality that he shares with his opponent.
The rematch will be a virtual carbon copy of the first bout but even more exciting. A Dawson seeking retribution will come out strong ripping strong, sharp combinations and doing his best to keep his elbows in to defend against Johnson’s effective counter body attack. This is a rare case of the irresistible force versus the immovable object. Dawson will be fighting hard to establish his dominance in the division. Johnson will rely on his amazing work ethic, experience and skill to remain relevant. It is a defining bout for both fighters and its importance will manifest itself with the violence we will witness in the ring.
The winner will most likely meet ageless wonder Bernard Hopkins in the biggest bout of their career. It should be noted that Johnson met Hopkins in 1997 and was stopped in 11. Dawson was 15 years old at the time.
Youth versus experience; I’ve drawn my line in the sand. Johnson W12 Dawson in an exciting bout.
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