As predictable as it was wrong, an unfathomable scorecard was delivered in the bout for middleweight supremacy and has subsequently been the major talking point in the aftermath of the biggest fight of the year. The judge in question, Adelaide Byrd, has undoubtedly achieved the status as the world’s most infamous official (congratulations to her) as of Saturday night and her bizarre judgement extends an alarming list of high profile fights marred by incompetency, or in the words of an animated Teddy Atlas, corruption. But, although the stench of such an injustice still lingers, it should not be allowed to overshadow the performance of the worlds’ two most exciting fighters.

A decisive victor may not have been officially determined, but the questions that either combatant put to the other were indeed answered. Rather than dwell on something that cannot be changed, it is important that we take a moment to reflect on the best fight the middleweight division has seen in years. Starting with the champion.

Gennady ‘GGG’ Golovkin; the hype is real.

Entering the ring with an unbeaten record, 33 knockouts and 3 of the 4 major world championship belts, Golovkins’ reign as the most dominate champion in the sport is a story of two halves. The first defined by his ruthless intensity, an innate toughness and god given power. Racking up 23 knockouts in a row the Kazakh’s thunder shook the division to its’ very core, earning him a reputation as a blood hungry juggernaut who promises one thing; ‘big drama show’. The second, a story of frustration and unfavorable politics that kept this monster caged in the shadow of his rival at the expense of his age. For the past 5 years Golovkin has had to settle for victories over sub-par opposition that have not been enough to cement his legacy as an all time great middleweight. Despite being one victory away from setting a unprecedented number of title defenses, Golovkin’s resume was still void of an elite name. Sadly, it still is whether you agree or not. But arguably more important than the result was what Golovkin showcased in a night in which his capabilities at the highest level would be tested like never before. The pressure was on and in the defining moment of his career Triple G responded.

Sticking to his familiar stalking approach firing stiff power jabs, Golovkin’s stamina, footwork and ring generalship yielded success against the most accomplished fighter he has ever faced. The early signs were clear for all to see; Golovkin would not be able to impose himself so effortlessly as he has done in the past. If he was going to get Alvarez where he wanted him he’d have to take some serious fire power to do so. And indeed he did. Heavy, heavy artillery was finding it’s mark on the champion but Golovkin’s chin borders the realm of insanity and is now perhaps more famously inhuman than his power. The battle is over and fans should look fondly at an inspiring performance from a champion who proved his worth. Golovkin ticked all the boxes of an elite prize fighter and is deserving of a place as one of the sport’s pound for pound best.

Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez; the face of boxing.

Coming in, Canelo’s resume was one thing that truly spoke more volume than Golovkins’ and his ability as an elite fighter was never in question. How he would use his attributes against a bigger, stronger man was of great intrigue. Contrary to what many believe transpired, Canelo showcased a quickness that we’ve never from him before. His counter punching and accuracy that was demonstrated in the fight has been overlooked thanks to an individual who over exaggerated its’ effectiveness. The challenger’s fierce resolve is just as frightening as the champion’s, and Canelo’s durability and toughness is the quintessential story of Mexican heart. Whether he won, lost or drew is likely to be in debate for some time. But what is undeniable is a brave performance that did not warrant the boos that followed the announcement. Quite the opposite in truth. At 27 years of age Canelo Alvarez is primed to drive the sport into a new era of excitement. Set to enjoy at least 3 more years of his prime, there is no knowing how many classic match ups he’ll deliver in the years to come.

How does it rank?

After an insufferable 3 years of ‘marination’ the pressure on both men to deliver a spectacle worth it’s wait was on. We were promised the best fight in boxing and it did not disappoint. Gennady Golovkin and Canelo Alvarez fought an engaging, tactical battle of contrasting strategies. It may not have been as explosive or violent as some had predicted, but the two best middleweights in the world laid the foundations of a rivalry that would hold it’s own in any era. A draw may have been the best result the fans could have hoped for. Now we get to see how far this inspiring rivalry will go.

Here’s to number two.