Gennady Golovkin returns to the ring with vicious knockout

Gennady Golovkin, the former undisputed middleweight champion of the world, took care of business Saturday night, disposing of gutsy Steve Rolls in round four at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

Working with trainer Johnathon Banks for the first time, Golovkin (39-1-1, 35 KOs) took his time in the opening stanza. He used his stiff jab, while heavy underdog Rolls (19-1, 10 KOs) moved and fired his own left. Golovkin scored with a couple of hooks, one to the head, and one to the body.

Golovkin, employing more head movement, landed a sharp hook to the ribs in round two. Rolls, who definitely came to win, connected with a right that drove Golovkin into the ropes. Golovkin, 37,fought back with a combination, but ate a stiff right.

Both fighters landed good shots to the body. Golovkin upped the ante in round three. He connected with a four-punch combination. Rolls countered with a solid left-while Golovkin continued to work the midsection.

The first three rounds had been more competitive than many predicted, with Golovkin landing the heavier punches. Rolls was busy with his jab in round four. Golovkin fired hard shots to the head. A straight jab/hook landed on the temple. Rolls staggered into the ropes. Golovkin unloaded more shots as Rolls wobbled, attempting to survive, but a wicked left hook crashed home, sending him face first to the canvas.

“I feel great,” said Golovkin with a smile. “I feel like a new baby. Thank you everyone who supports boxing. My opponent looked good, and strong.”

Golokin’s performance was solid and laced with power. Rolls has nothing to be ashamed of. The Canadian gave it his all.

Golovkin will likely fight Canelo Alvarez for a third time in September.

Look for Jason Gonzalez report from Madison Square Garden coming soon.