Session One –

Jahmal Harvey continues to look like one of the best modern American boxers from the amateur system. Sending clips of his fights to friends, they can’t believe he isn’t pro already. Harvey dominated a former Olympian Miguel Vega, one of whom I really liked as well. Harvey is the real deal, but also got cut by a headclash in the third round prompting him to cuss. Harvey is continuing to look special after winning a gold earlier this year.

Jonathan Mansour is showing dramatic improvement, as my one frustration for him in the past was excessive movement, which I didn’t see translating well to the next tier of the sport. Mansour fought a game opponent, standing his ground in spots, as he mixed it up as well as I have ever seen him fight, and appears to be making a lot growth. Not just a shoutout to USA Boxing, but also to Bomber Squad Academy which is continuing to produce world-class amateurs, and will surely one day have a homegrown world champion, with Mansour and Julius Ballo looking to be the leaders in the clubhouse on that front.

Session Two –

138 lber Emilio Garcia did everything, but win as he gave his opponent a standing-eight count, resembled fellow great Texas pressure fighters Vergil Ortiz and Errol Spence Jr., yet was on the wrong side of the decision. Garcia is mean, and hits very hard. Garcia believes in his power, and knows if he lands, he can slow his opponent down. Interested to see where he goes as a prospect.

Jajaira Gonzalez is one of the best women’s boxers in the country, and her style is all gas no breaks. Gonzalez has a very pro style and puts forth a lot of pressure like her brother, Joet, who is signed with Top Rank Inc., as she looks to break down her opponents. I doubt many will be able to handle her pressure outside of truly elite fighters.

Arika Skoog found herself in a tough spot in this tournament, having a rough go at the last national tournament getting stopped by Stephanie Simon, and then finding herself fighting internationally. Skoog put forth a good effort, as she fights with her heart on her sleeve not unlike a Micky Ward, but found herself coming up a bit short.

Morelle McCane, a decorated amateur seemingly looked for big punches as she was outjabbed against an opponent willing to do little damage, but be active. “Million Dollar Mo” has a lot of potential, and this will be valuable experience moving forward for her.

Total: USA Boxing went 3-3 on day one.