Hot prospect Victor Ortiz stumbles en route to a showcase opportunity to upgrade from prospect to contender level when showing his age 22, in a barn burner with Argentine Marcos Maidana in his USA debut. 

The sparks flew as early as stanza one, with Maidana the first to test the canvas courtesy of a Ortiz right-hook - then it’s Ortiz down from a Maidana counter right hand - the hot leather continues in round two with Ortiz having the better, finds the Maidana sweet spot with right hooks that results in two knockdowns. 

The Ortiz stock rises as he grabs numero tres while displaying better skills from the southpaw side, as the visiting Argentine is missing with wild offerings.  

Come numbers four and five it’s Maidana - first the edge in four, before delivering a message in a brawling numero cinco - finally in round six a battered and bloody Ortiz is dropped and in trouble.  

Seemingly, the nasty cut over the right eye, coupled with a slice and severe bruise under the left eye, had taken the fight out of the house favorite - referee Raul Caiz Sr. would end the carnage at the :46 mark. 

Post Scripts:

• Marcos Maidana (26-1, 25 KO) ~ age 25 - forget “sweet science,” this kid is a one-dimensional bomb thrower in style - big heart, good power - the purveyors of pugilism have found a new face to tout. However, if not upgrading the skills he’ll fall short of the mark - but at the same time, will sell tickets and keep the uninitiated warm all over with his crowd pleasing style.

• Victor Ortiz (24-2-1, 19 KO) ~ age 22 and remains hot prospect - paid the price of coming along too quickly before reaching star status. The loss is not the rest of the story. Young enough to call last nite a learning experience -  remove the willingness to go the “Katie bar the door” route, and stick with the port side jab to set up them explosive combos and this kid will be back on track.

Commentators report card:  Emanuel Steward always a good listen, second to none  in analyzing - Bob Papa comfortable in his role - One word covers Maxie-boy: Unqualified!