By Allen Fox: Former WBC/WBO middleweight champion Jermain Taylor (28-4-1, 17 KO’s) will get back in the ring for the first time in over two years in a fight against little known fighter Jessie Nicklow (22-2-3, 8 KO’s) on December 30th at the Verizon Arena in Little Rock, Arkansas.

The 33-year-old Taylor hasn’t fought since being knocked out in the 12th round by Arthur Abraham two years go in October 2009. That knockout was an especially brutal one and was Taylor’s third KO loss since 2007.

It was clearly a sign that Taylor’s punch resistance had disappeared to the point where he could no longer face quality opposition and count on his chin carrying him through. The time away the ring, as well as new dedication to keep his weight down in between fights, is something Taylor is hoping will help him succeed moving forward.

It’s doubtful but you never know. Taylor has the talent to succeed in the middleweight division, which is one of the weakest divisions in all of boxing. You’ve got fighters like Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., Felix Sturm and Daniel Geale holding down titles. Taylor, even being depleted, is clearly better than those guys, as long as his chin is able to hold up.

Taylor’s problems will likely surface once he gets past the tune-up fights and starts running into some stiff opposition. I think Taylor can beat most of the guys in the division, including the fighters that I mentioned. However, if he gets put in with a slugger like Peter Quillin he’ll be in trouble.

Taylor has to stay away from guys that can pop. I think it’s possible but Taylor will eventually have to face someone with power and that’s when he’s going to have problems. I don’t believe the time off will help Taylor’s chin.