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Mitchell lifted his challenger off his feet with a right hand, the follow up left a punctuation mark that was barely needed. They were the first punches that Mitchell, who made a successful defence of his WBO Intercontinental title, had thrown in anger after a cautious start to the first round. And the sensational finish made a mockery of those who felt that the Dagenham Destroyer would have his hands full with his second Colombian in a row.
After the fight, promoter Frank Warren suggested that Mitchell would take on Michael Katsidis for the WBO lightweight title in the summer. Mitchell is currently WBO number one, with Katsidis the interim champion and Juan Manuel Marquez the full champion, although he is likley to vacate. The 25-year-old has made no secret of the fact he wants Katsidis, a big-punching Australian who guarantees excitement.
Well known on those shores after a war against Graham Earl, any fight between him and Mitchell is likely to provoke a rush for tickets, especially if it goes ahead in London. With wins over Breidis Prescott and now Mendoza, Mitchell appears more than ready for world level.
Since moving to Jimmy Tibbs' gym last year, the Dagenham Destroyer has shown an increasing maturity. An accomplished box-puncher, his win over Prescott showcased his skill, while this victory this evening at Wembley Arena highlighted the power that has been apparent since he turned professional as a teenager nearly seven years ago.
Now victorious in 31 fights, Mitchell has served a long apprenticeship - which has seen him win the British and Commonwealth titles - but it is surely time to let him off the leash.
http://www.frankwarren.tv/