Molitor Edges Past Ruiz

Andrew Fruman recaps last night's Casino Rama main-event between Steve Molitor and Heriberto Ruiz.

Scattered boos met the action last night in Rama, Ontario as Steve Molitor laboured to a split decision win over Mexico’s Heriberto Ruiz. It was hard to blame the crowd’s frustration, as the fight was a listless affair from the get go with shows of initiative rare by either man.

Molitor had his best success when he came forward throwing combos, with his straight left and right hook finding the mark when he did let his hands go. It was however not a common occurrence as The Canadian Kid appeared tight and overly tentative throughout the dull 12 rounder.

A little caution was understandable given what took place last November against Celestino Caballero, but with a clear edge in speed and skills over the plodding, wide swinging Ruiz, it was frustrating to watch Molitor lay back round after round.

Ruiz was just as guilty for the lack of action, seemingly content to sit back and look for countering opportunities. He landed the occasional decent right hand, but was mostly too slow to react and came up short with most of his counters.

Adding to Molitor’s struggles was a nasty gash high on the left side of his forehead suffered during a 7th round clash of heads. It was the typical southpaw-orthodox situation with Molitor trying to come inside with a left hand as Ruiz leaned in to throw a right.

To his credit, Molitor apologized to the crowd after the bout and promised better in the future. He’ll have to deliver on that, because this type of performance won't get the desired results against the elite of the division.

The scores were 116-112 twice for Molitor, and 116-112 for Ruiz on the other card.

After the bout, promoter Allan Tremblay said Molitor will likely meet the winner of Kiko Martinez and Takalani Ndlovu next time out. That will possibly take place on September 4, but it could happen as late as November, depending on when Martinez and Ndlovu go at it.

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