This Saturday, heavyweight contender Jonathan Banks (29-1-1, 19 KOs) will step into the ring to re-match, Seth “Mayhem” Mitchell (25-1 19 KOs). Shocking many, Banks knocked Mitchell down two times before stopping him in the second round, back in November. Both Banks and Mitchell were eager to get back in the ring against each other after their first showdown. The rematch was originally slated for February 16th but had to be postponed when Banks broke his thumb, while training for the fight.
Banks trains out of the Kronk Gym in Detroit, Michigan. Since the passing of hall of fame trainer Emanuel Steward, Banks has taken over the reins training Heavyweight Champion Wladimir Klitschko. Coming back from an injury is never easy, but Banks feels he is ready for the fight. “I feel good, I’m in shape and ready to go,” Banks said. When asked how he stays motivated to train for a bout with a fighter he’s made quick work of in the past, he replied, “Boxing is my life, this is what I do. I love what I do. Ain’t nothing going to stop me from doing it.”
Mitchell is determined not lose again, as this is a make or break fight for his career. Mitchell has said he is prepared for the fight and he has studied the tapes from the first fight to learn what he did wrong and correct his mistakes. Banks doesn’t seem too concerned, stating, “if (Mitchell) feels he can watch tapes and correct his mistakes, he must be able to”. When asked about the outcome, Banks said on Saturday “Jonathan Banks will be victorious”.
Mitchell was once a highly touted Heavyweight prospect. The first fight with Banks was supposed to be his showcase, but Mitchell fell short of expectations. Will Mitchell show he is not just a product of media hype? Will Banks prove he belongs in the upper echelon of the heavyweight division? In Brooklyn, Saturday June 22nd, the undercard fight for Malignaggi vs Broner , will answer many questions about both Mitchell and Banks.
