THE word ‘boring’ has traditionally been used as an insult, directed at those who fail to command even the slightest degree of interest.
One’s success, after all, is largely driven by their ability to turn heads, capture imaginations and, most of all, give others a reason to pay attention to whatever it is they’re doing.
At the same time, though, there is something to be said for being boring; or rather, it is not mandatory for someone to ooze charisma whenever they’re placed in front of the camera.
Indeed, an engaging personality will take them far, building their profile to a point where the risk of missing out on certain opportunities gradually disappears.
But regardless of the many sponsorship deals and endorsements that may follow, nothing can come before the discipline and mental fortitude it takes to reach the very top.
In that sense, being known as ‘boring’ is, in many ways, a compliment, implying that someone has locked themselves away from the limelight and focused solely on refining their craft.
Jack Catterall, of course, embraced his ‘boring’ reputation in Matchroom’s recent promo for his clash with Arnold Barboza Jr this Saturday.
And by doing so, the 31-year-old has not only garnered more widespread attention but also stayed true to who he is as a fighter.
With Catterall, 30-1 (13 KOs), there is no style over substance: what you see is what you get.
Every defensive manoeuvre and counterpunch has been diligently rehearsed in the gym where, without needing to scream from the rooftops about his undeniable talent, ‘El Gato’ has crafted a style of fighting that remains a puzzle for anyone he steps into the ring with.
In fairness, Barboza, 31-0 (11 KOs), has established himself as a solid operator, too, with the unbeaten American coming off a strong performance to outpoint Jose Ramirez.
Against Sean McComb, however, the 33-year-old was made to look entirely one-dimensional in a fight that many believe he was fortunate to win.
Catterall, on the other hand, has looked far from one-dimensional in his most recent outings, avenging his controversial defeat against Josh Taylor in conclusive fashion before producing a polished performance to outfox Regis Prograis.
A typically ‘boring’ display from the Brit – one that showcases his tremendous ring generalship – is therefore likely to take place at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester, England.
In other words, Catterall’s pulsating movement and sharp combinations should see him capture the vacant WBO interim super-lightweight stap with another comprehensive victory on points, taking him one step closer towards what promises to be an eagerly anticipated world title shot.
