By Matt McFahn: Many boxing fans and critics around the world view what they saw unfold in the Staples Center, Los Angeles last night, 23rd June, as a clear lack of heart by Victor Ortiz, the strength of their argument backed by the criticism of Ortiz’ performance against Marcos Maidana.

I think, that everyone giving the criticism fail to realize the possible consequences if Ortiz chose to carry on. First of all there is the obvious danger of lasting damage to Ortiz, that the severity of the injury may have been exacerbated by a barrage of punches from Lopez, and could cause problems further down the line. But in addition, people are failing to comprehend the complications of fighting, especially in such a back and forth full out war, with a broken jaw.

Firstly, at the ridiculous pace the fighters set, a fighter will begin to breathe through his mouth, which isn’t a possibility in that situation. The pain from taking one of Josesito’s huge hooks across an open mouthed broken jaw would have probably forced Ortiz to the canvas, knocking him out and ended the fight the same was as he chose to, albeit not sparing him extra pain.

If Ortiz somehow managed to last the final three rounds in that condition, his performance would have deteriorated, and due to how close the skill of the two fighters were, Lopez would have won the last three rounds outright. Because Ortiz only had a small lead after round nine, this meant a decision loss for him, in this situation he had nothing to do but lose, he just chose the smartest way out.

I don’t believe that Ortiz did break his jaw in round one, there was a noticeable difference in his corner in the aftermath of round nine, but that is my only criticism. I say well done to two brilliant fighters for putting on a brilliant nine rounds of boxing, although an extra well done to Lopez for managing such a strong performance at 147 pounds after moving up from 140, no easy feat.