In what proved to be a successful American debut, 2004 Olympic silver medalist Amir Kahn went tic for tac with everything Paulie Malignaggi had for him. The “Magic Man,” had no tricks up his sleeve as he was out gunned in every aspect of his boxing game. It eventually led to the 11th round TKO stoppage (1:25) of the native New Yorker, who by that point had a hit me target posted to the front of his face.
Though the only threat the soft punching Malignaggi seriously presented to Kahn was a combination of speed and boxing ability so perfectly illustrated in his fight with Juan Diaz, It was no where to be seen on Saturday night. For eleven rounds, Malignaggi strangely stood in front of Kahn and in the process ate alot of jabs, though Malignaggi’s hand speed was on the same level as his opponents, Kahn did a masteful job of working his natural reach and height advantages. It allowed Kahn to sit on his punches and keep Malignaggi at bay and himself out of danger. By the 10th round, it was all Kahn with Malignaggi showing little to no offense. It prompted referee Steve Smoger to walk into his corner and ask ringside doctors to see if Malignaggi could continue. They gave him one last chance in the eleventh round and he came out swinging. For a brief minute Malignaggi was reinvigorated landing a great hook to the head of Kahn, but his flame would soon fizz as Kahn continued to land hard jabs that backed him into the ropes. Kahn moved in and landed a few more shots before the contest was stopped. With Malignaggi putting his hand out and directioning to Kahn in a congratulatory display.
