As if the awkward loss and resulting critical commentary wasn’t bad enough, Ortiz will now have to convince the Nevada State Athletic Commission that he learned his lesson and will never intentionally head butt an opponent again. He is scheduled for a meeting with the commission next Wednesday to further explain his actions and his statements about intending to break Mayweather’s nose.
“We want Mr. Ortiz to explain himself with regards to his actions of September 17,” said NSAC Executive Director Keith Kizer, explaining that Ortiz is not currently licensed in the state. “There are indications that he would do it again. It is actually a part of our afternoon agenda on the 11th. There will be five commissioners who will decide whether Ortiz will be given a license or not based on explanations.”
Coincidentally, Ortiz also had a point deducted for hitting behind the head in his exciting unanimous decision win over the then-undefeated Berto in their first WBC Championship bout in April of 2011. While he faces an uphill battle to get licensed for the rematch, the anticipation for their second battle and the revenue the fight will bring to the city of Las Vegas will probably play a huge role in allowing Ortiz to be licensed in the state again.
Meanwhile, Floyd Mayweather, Jr. might have lucked out in getting his prison sentence deferred until June first, but his conviction of criminal charges triggered the NSAC to require the undefeated welterweight to report to them before he can gain his own boxing license.
“The commission looks at experience, integrity, character and skill to determine whether or not it’s appropriate to issue a license,” Kizer explained to TMZ.COM. Kizer also admitted that it’s not uncommon for boxers to apply for their licenses just a few weeks before their scheduled bouts. No matter who Mayweather fights on May 5th this year, he generates a great deal of financial stimulus to area hotels and casinos every time he steps in the ring. If the commission licenses Ortiz without a hitch, they won’t dare to prohibit Mayweather from boxing in 2012.
Rich Bergeron
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