So it was on Friday night, when 26-year-old Ecuadorean junior welterweight Erick Bone showed the world that he is a world-class talent and willing warrior.
Bone, who lives in Queens, NY and is managed by Eli Mackay, was stopped in round five by former world champion Shawn Porter on Spike TV in Ontario, California. Viewers saw Bone having some success against Porter. That success may have been surprising as Bone took the fight on twenty-four hours notice.
In round two, Bone, who is signed to adviser Al Haymon, sprained his right knee. He fought for three rounds on one knee. “I won’t make any excuses. But I want people to know I will be back, on TV, and I will be ready for a summer fight,” said Bone (16-2).
Mackay said he is proud his boxer stepped up a weight class on such short notice. “He fought on one knee,” Mackay marveled. “A doctor said it was good the fight ended because Erick’s knee could have been seriously hurt. But it’s just a sprain. Bottom line, Erick is a real talent and will make noise at junior welterweight!”
“As the fight progressed, Erick was starting to figure out Porter. It would have been real interesting to see how it would have played over the scheduled twelve rounds had he not injured his knee.”
