Gennadiy Golovkin passed his audition for an autumn showdown with Canelo Alvarez, but he’ll be aware that more will be required if he’s to steal the show in September. Facing Ryota Murata for middleweight supremacy, Golovkin knew that a win was vital, but after four rounds, there might have been concerns from those close to him that a second career defeat was possible.
It’s hard to criticise Golovkin for his performance in Japan that saw him bludgeon Murata into a ninth-round defeat, but his previous standards are exceedingly high. One of the modern era’s most dominant champions, Golovkin has only ever been excellent or exceptionally good. Turning 40 in fight week and shaking off over a year’s worth of ring rust, is it fair to accept an ordinary outing from a boxer who’s long been extraordinary?
Eating shots, particularly to the body, in the fight’s preliminary stages, Golovkin didn't look like a man who’ll be ready for Canelo in September, but that outlook changed as the fight passed the halfway mark. With his strong jab frequently turning into a powerful left hook, ‘GGG’ reminded a global audience of what he’s capable of, but will that be anywhere near enough in five months' time?
Winning is a valuable currency in boxing and Golovkin will be relieved that he has another victory and can put his feet up as he awaits Canelo’s next move. The Mexican is slated to face Dmitry Bivol on May 7th, and if successful, a trilogy meeting is next. Golovkin is fully aware of what to expect from his great rival, but he’ll also know that improvements are needed if he’s to push on from the Murata result.
The Japanese star is a capable operator and brave beyond belief, but he’s not Canelo. Awaiting Golovkin is boxing’s premier fighter, a performer he’s shared 24 rounds with, but he’s a fighter on an upwards trajectory. Reminding people that you’re a world class fighter is a box ticked by Golovkin against Murata. He’ll have to go a little bit extra if he’s to secure the biggest win of his illustrious career later this year.