February, 2005

Talking Boxing with "BAD" CHAD DAWSON
"I box smart and when I see the chance to take him out, I take him out"
by Jason Peck
2/28 - Jermain Taylor's televised stoppage of Daniel Edouard on the Bernard Hopkins undercard made it clear that the boxing media expects him to dominate the division. But when Hopkins relinquishes all four of his world title belts, the division's open to all comers.

Into the picture comes "Bad" Chad Dawson, a 17-0 southpaw with a string of vicotires to his name and a style similar to Thomas Hearns. Hopkins may be the champion, but Taylor is the heir apparent, and Dawson's looking for a future fight with the young upstart to prove who's the real king of the division. "He's a good fighter, but I think I'm a better one. I don't take nothing away from him," Dawson said about Taylor. "But I'm not the guy who's just going to get paid. I'm the best." Currently, Dawson is training for two fights, a March 11th match against an unnamed opponent and an April 1st match against the rugged Jose Spearman. Dawson took some time out of his schedule to talk with us. >>>> much more with one of middleweight's best prospects

Talking Boxing with JULIO DIAZ
"I can dance all night, forever...I won’t break down"
by Brian Skjold
2/28 - In today’s world of super champs and pay-per-views, it’s easy for a guy like Julio Diaz to get lost in the mix. At the tender age of 25, Diaz has had a full career, including many ups and downs. A controversial loss, a shocking upset, winning the IBF title, voluntarily giving up his belt without ever getting a chance to defend it, and now 32 fights later Diaz finds himself at the pinnacle of his boxing career.

“It’s tough…I’ve fought great fighters. I have to fight the tough opponent out there. I don’t have the luxury of being set up and carried through my career.”

Diaz has now officially graduated from hot prospect to legitimate contender. Fighting for his second world title in as many fights, Julio is finally getting the chance to make the most of his situation. >>>> much more on Julio Diaz as Mr. Skjold goes one-on-one :: Castillo & Diaz Recent Press Quotes

An HBO Boxing After Dark Robbery In Puerto Rico
by Buster Paris
2/28 - Popcorn goes flying as I shoot out of my seat, eyes wide open and heart thumping. The right hook rocked him, for the first time in his professional career Miguel Cotto is in trouble. Big trouble. My thoughts race and struggle to grasp this inconceivable and unbelievable scene that I’m witnessing. DeMarcus Corley is going to knock out Miguel Cotto – holy smokes! What in the world is happening? This makes no sense and was not in the game plan…well – not in my game plan or in Cotto’s. How did things change so fast and so drastically?

Saturday night February 26th, HBO’s 'Boxing After Dark' got off to a quick start. DeMarcus “Chop Chop” Corley entered the ring wearing a white one-piece jumper and one of the most bizarre headwear I’ve ever seen. It looked like one of those metal octopus thingys I think called Sentinels from the Matrix landed on his head. >>>> Mr. Paris says Cotto is pound-for-pound the best in the game, read on for more

Perez, Sanders Headline 2/28 - 8 Count Productions has announced details of their March 2005 installment of "THE BEST IN CHICAGO BOXING" on Friday, March 11th in Berwyn, IL... >>> more Arceo Battles Ex-champ Resendiz 2/28 - Luis Arceo meets former WBC Fecarbox champ Leonardo Resendiz in the 10-round lightweight main event on "Guilty Fight Night", March 4th... >>> more

Brock on "Cold Pizza" Tomorrow
2/28 - Undefeated Heavyweight Calvin Brock, 24-0, will be an in-studio guest tomorrow, March 1st on ESPN2's morning show "Cold Pizza." Brock, who was last seen beating Cliff Etienne by 3rd round TKO on "Friday Night Fights", will discuss his upcoming April 23rd bout against Jameel McCline, 31-4-3. "Cold Pizza" combines a unique blend of sports, pop culture, lifestyle features and consumer advice. • Discuss at the FORUM

Haye-Kelly Prepare for Cruiserweight Showdown
by Robin York
2/28 - On the undercard of light heavyweight Clinton Woods' fourth world title attempt against Rico Hoye, Bermondsey prospect David Haye enters a risky fight against Australian Glen Kelly in a match-up of cruiserweights.

Kelly, 32-2-1, will best be remembered for being knocked out by Roy Jones Jr. back in February 2002 for all of Jones' light-heavyweight titles at the time. Jones threw a punch from behind his back which put Kelly out for the count, which has been replayed many times. Since then, Kelly has moved up to cruiserweight and most recently won the OPBF Cruiserweight Title with a 12-round decision win over Peter Kariuki Ngateri. >>>> more

157-Pound Miguel Cotto Defends 140-Pound Title
by Frank Gonzalez
2/27 - Saturday night in Bayamon Puerto Rico, WBO Jr. Welterweight Champion, Miguel Cotto (23-0-0-19 KO's), entered the ring weighing 157-pounds, making him a Jr. Middleweight—defending his Jr. Welterweight Title over his 140-pound challenger, DeMarcus “Chop-Chop” Corley (29-4-1-16 KO's).

Corley entered the ring wearing a ridiculous looking head mask that he designed himself. It resembled a Fly with dreadlocks, with big bulging round blackened eyes and black tubes coming off the sides of the head. Last time I checked, Halloween was in October, not February. Cotto entered in his usual, solemn manner, the Puerto Rican crowd screaming as he walked to the ring. >>>> much more on Cotto and his 5th round stoppage of DeMarcus Corley

Action Packed Gibbs, McBride Return in Upcoming Bouts
2/27 - William "The Gladiator" Gibbs returns to the ring for the first time since August in a ESPN2 fight of the year candidate with Daniel Edouard that ended in a fourth round TKO for Edouard. On April 1st, 29-year-old Gibbs will be taking on Julio De La Cruz in the main event at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, CT. In a special presentation, Cappiello Promotions [Gibbs' promoter] will be honouring former Welterweight Champion, "The Flaming Fury," Tony DeMarco. Tickets can be purchased starting March 1st by logging on to ticketmaster.com. Also, Northeast Promotions, in association with Cappiello Promotions, is coming to Foxwoods Casino with a main event featuring heavyweights Kevin "The Clones Colossus" McBride, 34-4-1, in his return against Kevin Montiy, 15-2-1. Tickets for the March 18th show can be purchased at 800.200.2882 or at Foxwoods.com. • Discuss at the FORUM

Gomez Sneaks by Saunders by Joesph de Beauhamp 2/26 - The evening started with a full house at the Emerald Queen Casino. The performances of the fighters keep getting better in each event. The crowds truly enjoy the mix of the action... >>> more

Tiozzo Retains WBA Title, Slays a Tiger
2/26 - Hamburg, Germany - In front of a packed house at the Color Line Arena, WBA light heavyweight champion Fabrice Tiozzo, 47-2, of St. Denis, France, stopped former WBO champ Dariusz "The Tiger" Michalczewski, 48-2, of Gdansk, Poland, at 2:05 of the sixth round with a barrage of punches to retain his title and score his 31st knockout. The 35-year old champ just two fights ago was fighting at cruiserweight, but came down to 175 to take the WBA title from Silvio Branco last March. In a light heavyweight co-feature, Zsolt Erdei, 22-0, retained his WBO version via a split decision over Hugo Garay, 23-2. Scores were 115-113, 116-112 and 110-118. Finally on this exciting card, WBA bantamweight title changed hands as Wladimir Sidorenko, 17-0, outscored defending titleholder Julio Zarate, 21-3-1, by scores of 117-112, 118-111 and 116-114. - Jim Amato • Discuss at the FORUM

Skelton Stops Moli by Robin York 2/26 - In an messy, mauling and physically exhausting battle, Matt Skelton became the WBU Heavyweight champion by stopping the game, but out of shape Argentine Fabio Moli. >>> more

TalkingBoxing Tidbits
Smith Bests Feliz, Jones Retains NABA, Cotto-Corely Weigh-In
2/26 - From Lowell, MA, NABA light heavyweight champ George Khalid Jones, 21-2-1, retained his title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Thomas Reid, 33-15-1. Jones controlled the most of the fight except for some brief periods when Reid outlanded Jones. The cards read 116-114, 117-111 and 115-113. In undercard action, welterweight Luis Hernandez stopped Robert Kamya at the end of round two and improved to 12-2. >>> ESPN2 went live from Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, OK with a fun heavyweight match-up between Terry Smith, 22-1-1, and Fernely Feliz, 21-4. Both came out guns blazing with Smith getting the better of it taking scores of 97-93 [twice] and 96-94. In the co-feature, welterweight Carlos Quintana remained unbeaten at 19-0 with a 4th round TKO win over Nurhan Suleymanoglu. >>> Tonights HBO televised "Boxing After Dark" special, WBO jr. welterweight champ Miguel Cotto weighed in at 140-lb limit while challenger Demarcus Corley weighed in at 137. • Discuss at the FORUM

Talking Boxing with JAMES "LIGHTS OUT" TONEY
"'The Life and Times of James Toney'...It's gonna be a reality TV show!"
by Coyote Duran
2/25 - So my good friend Rachel Charles at Goossen-Tutor Promotions asks me: "Would you like to interview James Toney?" Holy crap-in-a-hat! Who wouldn't?

That's me on the outside. On the inside, I'm a churning vortex of nervous barf waiting to happen. Unless you've relocated you to Mars in the past 15 or so years, you know that "Lights Out" has a tendency to make the media want to run. Run into traffic. Run off a cliff. Just run far enough to not let Toney (68-4-with 2 draws and 43 KOs) catch you. Luckily for me, I do business via telephone.

But what does that matter when James Toney can just about intimidate anyone who doesn't step into a ring for a living (and some who do!). What if he rips me a new ass? If I ask the wrong question, I'm on the first flight to Gonesville, man. >>>> this is one of those interviews that's a must read with James Toney as he discusses his reality TV show among other items

State of British Boxing 2/25 - So far this year we've seen the first of the big fights between a super champion and challenger ending in victory for the champion, in this case Bernard Hopkins decisioning Howard Eastman in Los Angeles last weekend. >>> more 'Turning Stone Double Hitter' 2/25 - Star Boxing announces “TURNING STONE DOUBLE HITTER,” on April 9; a blockbuster night featuring two exciting main events at the Turning Stone Casino in Verona, New York. >>> more

Joey Giardello – The Chubby Kid
by Dr. Joseph de Beauchamp
2/25 - Joey Giardello started out in Flatbush, a section of Brooklyn in 1930. Joey watched his father go to work at the Department of Sanitation. His father supported five boys, the family got by okay on their finances. Like most boxers, Joey’s family pulled together to make ends meet.

His father fought under the name Eddie Martin. Joey’s father claimed a decent record, but never made the big bucks, and fell into his job to support his family. Even though his father fought, his father never trained his son, Joey. Carmine or Joey grew up in the Italian neighborhood and in an Italian family. >>>> more

Skelton Steps to the Plate Versus Moli
by Robin York
2/25 - Undefeated British and Commonwealth Heavyweight Champion and Bedford power-house Matt Skelton goes for his first "world title" this Friday night at the Wembley Conference Centre when he takes on Argentina's Fabio Moli for the vacant WBU Heavyweight crown. >>>> more

Rahman has a Genuine Chance in Dethroning the Giant Ukrainian
by Robin York
2/24 - Madison Square Garden is the arena for what could be a dramatic fight between the WBC Heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko and former champion Hasim Rahman. The fight is scheduled to take place on April 30th and it looks like being an explosive contest. It's the type of fight the heavyweight division needs, a good champion against a challenger who has a genuine chance.

Kelly, 32-2-1, will best be remembered for being knocked out by Roy Jones Jr. back in February 2002 for all of Jones' light-heavyweight titles at the time. Jones threw a punch from behind his back which put Kelly out for the count, which has been replayed many times. Since then, Kelly has moved up to cruiserweight and most recently won the OPBF Cruiserweight Title with a 12-round decision win over Peter Kariuki Ngateri. >>>> give Hasim a chance this April

Mayweather avoids jail 2/24 - A collective 'sigh' could be heard today as Floyd Mayweather Jr., who pleaded "no-contest" to his involvment in a bar-room fight, avoided jail-time, but was slapped with a fine and ordered to perform community service. The 27-year old has a scheduled PPV fight on June 11th with WBC champ Arturo Gatti.

A Quick Note Of Thanks to Mike Tyson
by Buster Paris
2/24 - There was a bit of a mix up in the instructions given to Bernard Hopkins on February 19th, 2005. Someone told him the wrong time to be ready. Howard Eastman was obviously given the right information, he was ready to go, but Bernard was not and fans were left waiting a little longer after the Jermain Taylor and Daniel Edouard bout. It was not psychological warfare. Hopkins wasn’t messing with Eastman it was simply a matter of someone or something just screwing up.

I’d like to personally thank the person or series of events that led to this taking place. >>>> a mistake in timing gave Tyson a chance to shine

Cintron Ready, but Puerto Rican champions pick Margarito
by José Manuel Martinó of the classy site BoxeoMindial.net
2/24 - After last Fridays impressive win of António Margarito over tough but outmatched Sebastián Andrés Lujan, the stage has been set for the latest chapter in the long standing rivalry between Puerto Rican and Mexican boxers as Kermit “The Killer” Cintron is expected to face Margarito on ESPN Pay Per View April 23 from the Ceaser’s Palace in Las Vegas.

ESPN’s first ever boxing PPV gives boxing fans plenty to get excited about as Sugar “Shane” Mosley makes his return to the welterweight division against a formidable opponent David Estrada. The only blemish on Estrada’s record is a loss at the hands of undefeated prospect Ishe Smith, and is currently on a 3-fight winning streak, with two of those wins coming off then undefeated welterweights Nurhan Suleymanoglu and Chris Smith. >>>> much more on Kermit Cintron

ESPN PPV Set 2/24 - April 23rd at Caesers Palace, ESPN enters the pay-per-view realm sure to excite fans. With a March 1st date closing in to make it official, the current fights will feature WBO 147-lb champ Antonio Margarito vs. Kermit Cintron, WBA 135-lb champ Juan Diaz vs. Ebo Elder, Shane Mosley returns against David Estrada and Calvin Brock takes on Jameel McCline.

Morales Resorts to Acupuncture
by Salven L. Lagumbay
2/24 - While Manny Pacquiao is using Thai sticks in his training, former three-division world champ Erik Morales has resorted to alternative medicine in his bid to attain the best shape possible as he girds for the March 19 showdown against the Filipino lefty at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada. >>>> much more

Pacquiao's Partner Starts Scouting
by Salven L. Lagumbay
2/24 - A close friend and business partner of reigning Ring Magazine featherweight king Manny Pacquiao has already started the ground work for what will be an ambitious plan to give Filipino fighters the chance to be known worldwide and the opportunity to reach their goals of becoming world boxing champions. >>>> much more

A Classy Combo | Diaz, Castillo Offer Opinions on March 5th
2/24 - A pair of potentially explosive match-ups will be shown during SHOWTIME’s Free Preview Weekend when two-time time WBC Champion Jose Luis Castillo (51-6-1, 45 KOs) takes on former IBF titleholder Julio Diaz and undefeated Jeff Lacy [Q&A] risks his IBF super middleweight crown against once-beaten Rubin Williams [Q&A] on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, March 5.. The world championship doubleheader, which will be co-promoted by Top-Rank, Inc., and Gary Shaw Productions, LLC, will take place at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas and start at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast). >>>> much more on the March 5th, Showtime main-event fighters

Talking Boxing with RUBIN WILLIAMS
Williams plans to, "box his ears off and crack him hard every now and then"
by Luke Callahan
2/23 - Persistence and winning. It's a simple formula that has paid off for a talented youngster named Rubin Williams. The Detroit, Michigan native gets a shot at IBF super middleweight champ Jeff Lacy, March 5th on SHOWTIME. When Rubin's manager John Carlisle told him about the title shot after a seventh win in a row in late-January, Williams took it in stride. "I'm working real hard even though I just came off a fight. Four weeks notice is not a whole bunch of notice for a world title fight against Jeff Lacy."

When asked about holding any advantages over the champ, Williams, who owns a 1-2 amateur mark against Lacy, realizes he had the most resistance in comparison. Williams doesn't want that as a crutch, but wants it noted. "I don't have any major advantages," Williams said. "Lacy had no money or personal problems as a pro and that makes training a lot easier. He's been brought along by big business boxing and has gotten everything he's needed." >>>> much more from "Mr. Hollywood" before he challenges for the IBF title | Q&A with Jeff Lacy

Dawson Back, April 1st 2/23 - CES has announced its promotion of “Homecoming,” headlined by WBC Youth middleweight “Bad” Chad Dawson, fighting in his hometown on April 1st, in New Haven, CT. >>> Dawson, Estrada, Godfrey and more

Tickets on Sale for Trinidad-Wright
2/23 - Tickets go on sale today at Noon for the highly anticipated prizefight featuring the world's best 154-pound boxer, Winky Wright and three-time world champion Felix “Tito” Trinidad in a May 14th showdown at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Each combatant can credibly argue being the hottest boxer in the sport today. Wright defeated the gifted Shane Mosley twice and has not lost a match in more than five years. Puerto Rican superstar Trinidad emerged with a knockout win from a 29-month retirement in a slugfest against former welterweight champ Ricardo Mayorga. Tickets priced at $1000, $750, $400, $250 and $150 will be available at any MGM Grand box office outlet. Tickets also are sold at all Las Vegas TicketMaster locations and are limited to eight (8) per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call TicketMaster at (702) 474-4000. Tickets will be available for purchase at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com. • Discuss at the FORUM

Peden Stops Campbell 2/23 - Australian Robbie Peden scored a knockout victory over Nate Campbell tonight at Vodafone Arena in Melbourne to claim the IBF super featherweight title. >>> more

Highlights of Williams' Letter to Tyson
2/23 - Coming of a loss to Vitali Klitschko for the WBC heavyweight title, Danny Williams is trying to drum up support for a re-match with Mike Tyson, who he beat last July by knockout. Williams penned a recent open letter to Tyson with many highlights. "I do know is that for any comeback of yours to be taken seriously by boxing fans you must first come through me," Williams stated. The contender continued later, "Perhaps 'Iron Mike' is only interested in facing opponents he knows he can intimidate and dominate? I guess we'll soon see. Since I beat you, you've never once given me any credit for besting you inside four rounds." Williams, 32-4, wrapped it up calling their re-match a "natural fight" and said, "The only reason this fight won't happen is because you or those in charge of your career don't want it to. Mike, I'm returning to training now, too, and am also targeting a May or June comeback date. Pick up the phone and let's see if I can catch you with 26 more 'lucky punches'." >>> full open-letter :: Discuss at the FORUM

Talking Boxing with LOU DIBELLA
"if Hopkins wanted to fight Jermain and presented an offer we couldn't refuse, then yes"
by Julius Stecker
2/22 - Lou DiBella, CEO of DiBella Entertainment, is one of boxing’s best and most experienced promoters having developed an impeccable reputation as a matchmaker, spokesman, and one of boxing’s most knowledgeable figures. Often times DiBella is sought out for his opinion on the fight game, whether it is about an intriguing match up, or regarding one of his premier fighters. Never apprehensive to offer his opinions and having recently partnered up with multimillionaire, Hip Hop Mogul Damon Dash, in an enterprise aimed at increasing boxing awareness in the Hip Hop community, DiBella is branching out and for the good of boxing.

Dibella also has the fortune of promoting one of boxing’s future stars, middleweight contender Jermain Taylor, among many others, as well as the successful “Broadway Boxing” series beginning a second year. TalkingBoxing.com recently caught up with DiBella to get his take on his show at the Grand Ballroom at Manhattan Center in New York City on Thursday, Jermain Taylor's future along with the IBF Junior Lightweight Championship with his fighter, Nate Campbell on Wednesday. >>>> much more

Marco Barrera Headlines April 9th PPV Against #1 Ranked Fana
2/22 - The names are legendary – Julio Cesar Chavez, Salvador Sanchez, Ruben Olivares, and Carlos Zarate – and they all share one thing in common: they hail from perhaps the greatest fistic hotbed in the world – Mexico.

The latest superstar to represent the green, white, and red flag is Marco Antonio Barrera, who at 31 has confounded boxing experts by getting even better with each fight, and on Saturday, April 9, “The Baby Faced Assassin” will defend his WBC super featherweight championship for the first time against number one contender Mzonke Fana in a 12 round contest to be televised live on HBO Pay-Per-View from the Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas. >>>> much more on the upcoming Golden Boy Promotions PPV event

Michalczewski Returns 2/22 - This Saturday former WBO champ Dariusz Michalczewski returns to the ring against WBA 175-lb titlist Fabrice Tiozzo. >>> more Bravo Headlines Friday 2/22 - Heavy handed Chicagoan Oscar Bravo, 21-2 with 18KO, headlines this Friday at the Aragon Ballroom as 8 Count Productions and Miller Lite presents "Night of Destruction. >>> more

Ruiz promises to put Toney’s lights out
"Toney’s nothing more than a tune-up fight for me"
2/22 - WBA heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz promises to silence mandatory contender James “Lights Out” Toney in their impending title fight. Ruiz-Toney goes to purse bid February 28 in Miami and it has been mandated to be held within 90 days.

“I’m the real undisputed heavyweight champion of the world” Ruiz said. “None of the other champions will fight me. I’m the king of the heavyweight division; King Kong on top of the Empire State Building and all of the others are down on the street looking up at me. Toney’s nothing more than a tune-up fight for me before I start unifying the titles. He’s nothing more than an overweight middleweight. What’s he ever done to be the WBA mandatory contender? Nothing as a heavyweight! I’m going to switch his nickname around and put Toney’s lights out.” >>>> much more from the WBA champ

Gomez-Saunders Headline BATTLE XXXV in Tacoma
by Dr. Joseph de Beauchamp
2/22 - WBC Continental America’s Cruiserweight champion Gary Gomez (13-4-0, 5KOs) knows that a war starts this coming Friday night in Tacoma Washington. Gary worked in the amateur ranks with over 300 battles until he launched his career into the professional game. Gary decided to fight in the cruiserweight division, even though he appears outside the physical make up. Gomez stands only 5’7”, and yet weights at 195 pounds. >>>> much more on "Battle XXXV"

Foreman Headlines; Resto, Stevens, Berto Appear Thursday
2/22 - It's fight week in the Big Apple. Seven New York City products and a standout Olympian from Winter Haven, Forida, will be in action on 2005's third installment of DiBella Entertainment's Broadway Boxing Presented by Mohegan Sun slated for this Thursday night, February 24th at the Grand Ballroom at the Manhattan Center on 34th Street and Eighth Avenue in the Big Apple. Brooklyn junior middleweight Yuri Foreman (16-0, 7 KO's) headlines against Mexico's Jesus Soto (11-2-1, 10 KO's) in the main event. >>>> much more on the upcoming event :: much more on Andre Berto :: Q&A with Lou DiBella

Talking Boxing with JEFF "LEFT HOOK" LACY
"Williams poses a threat...He's trying to take something I like"
by Evan Korn
2/21 - IBF super-middleweight champion Jeff "Left Hook" Lacy is in great shape and ready for his upcoming, SHOWTIME televised co-feature against Rubin Williams on March 5th at 10:30 PM/ET. The 2000 Olympian shot to the top, becoming the first to win a "gold" medal, when he knocked out Syd Vanderpool in October for the vacant IBF title. Some say Lacy, 18-0 with 14KO, had a difficult time in his first defense, a unanimous decision win over Omar Sheika in December, but Lacy believes this just isn't the case. "I felt the fight wasn't even close. I gave Omar Sheika three rounds of that fight, max," Lacy said.

For his March 5th title fight, Lacy realizes Williams is a hungry challenger coming into this fight with plans to spoil future big-time fights. "Williams poses a threat. He's trying to take something I like." Read on for more of this exclusive interview as Lacy discusses his future plans, including potential mega-fights with WBO champ Joe Calzaghe and Jermain Taylor. >>>> much more with "Left Hook" before his March 5th showdown | Q&A with Rubin Williams

The Last Fighter to Push Hopkins that Hard was...
by Luke Chance
2/21 - 119-110 117-111 and 116-112 the scorecards read. Bernard Hopkins’ hand was lifted in victory, another stroll in the park for ‘the Executioner’ right? Another easy win for America's boxing flagship over some bum? Wrong. I had the distinct feeling that the challenger on Saturday night at the Staples Center in Los Angeles made Hopkins feel very uncomfortable throughout this fight, in a way that I haven’t seen Hopkins troubled by anyone. This is my break down of what I thought (despite the choruses of boos) to be an interesting fight. One in which Howard Eastman made a name for himself. >>>> much more

Jermain Taylor Graduated & Bernard Hopkins Congratulated
by Buster Paris
2/21 - Saturday night, February 19th 2005 at the Los Angeles Staples Center was an interesting night of boxing to say the least. Fans saw and were spoken to by Oscar De La Hoya and surprisingly by Mike Tyson on the HBO telecast. Middleweight contender Jermain Taylor beat Daniel Edouard and if you managed to stay awake through the first 4 rounds then you saw Bernard Hopkins take over Howard Eastman for his twentieth consecutive title defense.

First up was Jermain Taylor vs Daniel Edouard.

This fight held significance to it as it was an audition of sorts for Taylor to prove his skill, chin and style guarantee him a corner in the ring for a match against the big boys of the Middleweight division or more clearly put earns him a shot at Bernard Hopkins. >>>> much more

Diego Morales Gets Advice from Boxer Brother
by Salven L. Lagumbay
2/21 - Unlike Manny Pacquiao whose brother has just been schooled by a former foe, Mexican icon Erik Morales has his world-ranked bantamweight brother Diego to gain inputs from as he embarks on the final few weeks for his mammoth March 19 showdown with the Filipino superstar. >>>> much more

Hopkins Remains Middleweight Champ with 20th Defense
by Monty McMahon - Ringside at Staples Center
2/20 - Never pretty, rarely exciting, but you can’t argue with the results. Middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins (46-2-1, 32 KOs) made it a milestone 20 consecutive successful title defenses Saturday night, winning a unanimous decision over Howard Eastman (40-2 35 KOs) before a crowd of 12,828 at the Staples Center.

The 40-year-old champ didn’t show his age at any point in his fight with the Englishman and WBC No. 2, but he also rarely dominated. In fact, some stretches of the fight were downright boring, as ‘The Executioner’ was content to counterpunch the constantly forward-moving Eastman. >>>> full ringside report on Hopkins' 20th defense, plus post-fight comments from Los Angeles

Hopkins Makes Historic 20th Title Defense
by Frank Gonzalez
2/20 - Saturday night at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, Bernard "The Executioner" Hopkins made history again as he improved his record to 46-2-1-32 KO's with a Unanimous Decision victory over Guyanese/British Challenger, Howard Eastman (40-2-0-35 KO's).

The Philadelphia native had a humble start to his pro career, losing his first pro fight in 1988 to another first time fighter, Clinton Mitchell. He followed that loss with a string of 23 wins in a row until losing again to a fighter named Roy Jones Jr. by UD 12 in 1993. Hopkins started his reign as Middleweight Champion in April of 1995, after facing then IBF Champion, Segundo Mercado in a rematch bout. Mercado floored Hopkins twice in their first match eight months earlier, which ended in a Draw. Hopkins won the rematch by TKO 7. >>>> much more on Hopkins-Eastman

Happy 20th | Let's Celebrate with an Execution
Hopkins goes for number 20 against Eastman Tonight on HBO
by Jason Herron
2/19 - 20 is a pretty significant number in this country. It is the age you are no longer a teenager, but still not old enough to buy a drink. The number was worn by one of the greatest running backs of all time, Barry Sanders. It also represents the number of months it’s been since I’ve had a date. But on Saturday night, the number 20 will stand for boxing history.

Undisputed middleweight champion, Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins, will be looking to make his 20th consecutive defense when he battles Howard Eastman at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California on HBO. Jermain Taylor will battle fellow unbeaten middleweight, Daniel Edouard, in the opener. >>>> much more

Growing Pains For ‘Mighty’ Mike Arnaoutis, Scores Decision
by Frank Gonzalez
2/19 - Friday night at the Chumash Casino in Santa Ynez California, “Mighty Mike” Arnaoutis upped his record to 13-0-2-6 KO’s as he defended his NABO Jr. Welterweight Title, taking on the unheralded, former Lightweight, Roberto Santa Cruz (11-3-2 KO’s). >>>> much more post-fight report | "Mighty" Mike Q&A

Ears To You Antonio Margarito
by Buster Paris
2/19 - No, I will not make a bad Mike Tyson joke and I promise not to quote bad lines like “Friends, Romans, Countrymen, lend me your ears.” Even though it’s incredibly appropriate. Caesar’s Palace, Mark Antony, c’mon… If you watched Friday Night Fights on ESPN2 then you know what I’m referring to. Sebastian Lujan almost had his ear ripped off his head. >>>> much more

Margarito retains WBO welterweight title with Knockout
2/19 - From Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ and on ESPN2, Mexico's Antonio Margarito retained his WBO welterweight title with a 10th round stoppage of Argentina's Sebastian Lujan. Lujan, 22-1, boxed well to start, but Margarito, 31-4, began to take over after the 5th. With Margarito pounding Lujan against the ropes, referee David Fields stopped the bout at 2:57 of round 10 on the advice from ringside physician Eric Wurmser. Lujan's left ear had been torn and was hanging off, which forced the stoppage and a trip to Atlantic City Medical. The Margarito win sets up an April PPV showdown with "interim" WBO champ Kermit Cintron. "I've met a lot of undefeated fighters, and they all went home with a defeat," said Margarito after the fight with Cintron looking on. "I don't think Cintron will be any exception." • Discuss at the FORUM

Talking Boxing with "MIGHTY" MIKE ARNAOUTIS
" I'm training hard to get to the point where I will be a Showtime fighter or an HBO fighter"
by Coyote Duran
2/18 - The home of the Olympics has a lot to be proud of these days. For it is in the city of Athens, one "Mighty" Mike Arnaoutis was born and in the spirit of all the Greek warriors of legend, Arnaoutis would travel to a land where his greatest challenges would be met. Mind you, warriors like Heracles and Perseus never came to Atlantic City, New Jersey, but this is the 21st century and the Boardwalk sees different warriors these days.

Arnaoutis (12-0-2 with 6 KOs), is riding a crest of uncanny popularity and is reaping the fruits of a very young career that has exceeded the expectations of what a prospect should accomplish thus far. In fact, tonight at 11:00 PM ET/PT on the Showtime network's ShoBox: The New Generation, Arnaoutis takes on Roberto Santa Cruz (11-2 with 2 KOs) at the Chumash Casino in Santa Barbara, CA while making an unprecedented fourth appearance on the network's program dedicated to spotlighting young, hungry talent. >>>> "Mighty" Mike opens up about being close to a title, plus some excellent photos from Team Arnaoutis | report on Mike's majority decision victory

Talking Boxing with JACKIE KALLEN
"Everybody involved with 'The Contender' is very excited"
by Julius Stecker
2/18 - The production has completed. The editing is going on as you read through this interview and no one out there is more excitied about NBC's new reality show "The Contender" than Jackie Kallen. Kallen, who has managed the careers of many boxing stars through the years, assisted in the development of the 16 contestants on 'The Contender' and makes it clear the deviation from the previous attempt at a boxing reality show. "There are a lot of differences. This show has the influence of Sylvester Stallone, and he is just electrifying," said Kallen, who appears in the 14 episodes. "Another reason is the quality of our fighters, they are so much better, and the production is first class." Kallen's role might be the most important on the show. "I am like the mother figure. I did a lot of listening to the fighters." Kallen continued, "it was easier for them to drop their machismo pose and tell me how they really felt." Read on for much more with Jackie Kallen! >>>> much more from Jackie as she goes one-on-one with Julius Stecker

Hopkins Going for 20, But Will He Be Slowed By 40?
by Julius Stecker
2/18 - Undisputed middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins has been defying sports logic the past 5 years. The recently turned 40-year old has put to rest the notion that with an increase in age, there is a decrease in skill. You could say the same things about Barry Bonds, but last I checked Hopkins hasn’t been taking 'The Clear' to get pumped up for his past 5 fights.

Let’s look at some other comparisons here, the St. Louis Rams are pulling the plug on Marshall Faulk and he is 31. Dallas Cowboy Eddie George is done at 31 as well, but forget football, look at boxing, Sugar Ray Leonard was done in his early 30’s, and look at Roy Jones Jr. once he turned 35. So my question is, what makes Bernard Hopkins so different? I will tell you what it is. >>>> much more on why Eastman is "the man" to beat Hopkins

A Look Ahead: Eastman Strong as a Bull will Stop Hopkins
by Luke Chance
2/18 - Saturday, February 19th, tomorrow evening, is to be the day when Bernard Hopkins faces what will be the stiffest test of his career since his loss to Roy Jones Jr. I suppose I had better explain myself to those of you who are saying ‘Whats this guy talking about?’. So here goes.

First of all, write off both Johnson and Trinidad, both great fighters, both tailor made for Hopkins. Write off Allen because he’s a very limited fighter, write off Echols, Daniels and Hakkar because they are second tier, and Joppy because he was over the hill, and Oscar? Well that little guy was just too small... >>>> the upset bug could hit Bernard Hopkins tomorrow night

Barrera-Fana April 9th 2/18 - Marco Antonio Barrera, 59-4, will defend his WBC Super featherweight title on April 9th against #1 contender Mzonke Fana to be televised live on HBO PPV. Also, "Choko" Hernandez will defend his WBO jr. bantam title against Fernando Montiel.

Guerrero inks contract with Finkel, Santos
2/18 - Undefeated and newly crowned NABF Featherweight Champion, Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero inks a new multi-year management contract. Co-managing who many insiders consider one of the premiere talents in boxing will be Shelly Finkel and Bob Santos. Finkel believes "The Ghost" has the ability to be a champion in a number of weight classes and is excited to start working with the young phenom. Team Guerrero is exuberant as well, at the opportunity to work with Finkel, and considers this union a blessing. Look for a great career in the life of Robert Guerrero with his new team intact as 2005 marks the year that Finkel, Guerrero and Santos unite. • Discuss at the FORUM

Rivera Criticizes Judah 2/17 - Boxing manager Steve “Tank” Tankanow has come out firing on behalf of his WBA “regular” welterweight champion, Jose Antonio Rivera. >>> more Jones Risks WBA Shot 2/17 - NABA light heavy champ George Khalid Jones puts more than just his belt on the line Feb. 25th when he fights veteran Thomas Reid in the main event at Lowell [MA] Auditorium. >>> more

Trinidad-Wright Promo Tour Kicks-Off
2/17 - An open-to-the-public press conference at San Juan’s 10,000-seat Roberto Clemente Coliseum on Monday, February 21st at 11 a.m will kick off the middleweight clash between three-time world champion Felix “Tito” Trinidad and unified 154-pound champion Winky Wright on May 14th at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The tour stop has been specifically scheduled on the President’s Day holiday to give the public the best chance to attend the press conference.

"I want to encourage all Puerto Ricans to support their native hero Tito Trinidad by attending this tremendous event at Coliseo de Roberto Clemente," promoter Don King said. “Viva Puerto Rico!” The tour will continue with media-only press conferences on Tuesday in New York City, Wednesday in Los Angeles, and Friday, Feb. 25 in Las Vegas. Tuesday's conference will be held at 10:30 a.m at Copacabana on 560 West, 34th Street in Manhattan. • Discuss at the FORUM

Future Champs Honor Legends in 'Date with Destiny'
2/17 - Indiana State and IN.B.A. Lightweight Champion Johnny Novak, of Hammond, announced today he will bypass a Scheduled February bout at the Aragon Ballroom in Chicago, IL to honor two area boxing legends in a "Date With Destiny" Mar. 25, 2005 card, at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza, Merrillville, IN. >>>> much more from the Midwest's primiere promoter

Abdulaev Back with KO 2/16 - On Tuesday evening from Stuttgart, Usbekian Mahamat Abdulaev defeated Argentine Juan Alberto Godoy with a spectacular knockout in round 3. >>> more

Showtime Features March 4th Event
2/16 - "ShoBox: The New Generation” presents three undefeated fighters during one exciting night of boxing action on Friday, March 4, 2005. In a battle of unbeaten lightweight boxers in a scheduled 10-round main event, WBC No. 10/WBO No. 12/WBA No. 13 contender, Almazbek Raiymkulov, will make his SHOWTIME debut against Koba Gogoladze at the Silver Star Hotel & Casino Convention Center at Pearl River Resort in Choctaw, Mississippi. In the co-feature, WBO No. 8/WBC No. 10/IBF No. 11 contender Kelly Pavlik will trade leather with Dorian Beaupierre in a 10-round middleweight bout. >>>> Showtime scores another night of exciting, perfectly matched bouts

Eastman Makes Bold Knockout Prediction
2/16 - Howard Eastman has sounded more than ebullient in the build up to his challenge to Bernard Hopkins on Saturday 19th February at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles - he has sounded certain. "I am going to beat him in five rounds," he predicts. "Bernard Hopkins will not be denying me my destiny. He has never fought anyone like me before. I can punch harder than anyone he has met. I can take anything he can give out. What’s he going to do when he realises that?" • Discuss at the FORUM

Destiny vs. Legacy | Eastman Will Win In The 5th
by Buster Paris
2/16 - There is something you should know going into this column, I want Howard Eastman to win this Saturday night at the Staples Center in Los Angeles when he takes on undisputed middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins. I know it goes against the grain and against popular opinion as well as general wisdom, but it’s how I feel today. Yup, I’m all about the underdog.

Having tossed and turned this inside my head since this fight was announced and going back and forth between wanting Hopkins to win and solidifying his legacy and wanting Eastman to win and shocking the world. I’m sure I’ll go back and forth 100 more times before February 19th. >>>> much more pre-fight hype

Talking Boxing with LUPE CONTRERAS
"I really enjoy meeting the boxers and I really enjoy the beauty of the sport"
by Coyote Duran
2/15 - As a boxing writer for an Internet news site, I do my fair share of daydreaming. Mostly, it's me wondering if the big names are reading my stuff. Do fighters ever read my interviews and stories? If so, what do they think of my work?

Well, lately I've noticed that some fighters and managers do visit TalkingBoxing.com and very much enjoy our output and contributions to the fight community. We also strive to build lasting trusting and fair relationships, I think, with the sport we love to serve. With that in mind, I try not to be surprised (though it's difficult to shake my "fanboy enthusiasm") when any particular fighter asks for his soapbox and/or comments on the content of an interview or article.

Whether in praise or constructive criticism, I see it as a compliment and I find it an honor to be read at all. >>>> much more with the classy Lupe Contreras!

Million Dollar Baby – A Movie about Heart
by Dr. Joseph de Beauchamp
2/15 - "Sometimes you get so down, inspiration comes from anywhere. You make decisions, take action, and in the long run you win. You discover your heart." –Dr. Joe de Beauchamp

“Boxing is an unnatural act,” whispered Frankie Dunn (Clint Eastwood) cut man and trainer. “Understand me kid. You want to move to the left, you don’t step left, and you push off on the right toe, like this. To move to the right, you use the left toe, like this, see?” The old man drilled glances through your eyes to the back of your head. “Instead of running from the pain, which is natural thing in life, in boxing you step into it, getting me? >>>> much more on one of the year's best movies

Reyes-Soto, Mack-Grant Feb. 25th 2/15 - Guilty Boxing’s weekly boxing series, “Guilty Fight Night,” promises to be a knockout with a powerful one-two punch featuring a pair of 12-round world-class fights. >>> more

Witter to Showcase Talent on World Scene
2/15 - WBC #3 rated Junior Witter intends to underpin his position as one of the world’s most highly regarded light welterweights by making an impressive defence of his Commonwealth title against South Africa’s Lovemore N’dou on Saturday night at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles. “I have already proved I am the best in Europe and the Commonwealth,” began the 30-year-old switch hitter from Bradford. “Now its time for me to showcase my talent on the genuine world scene. By beating N’Dou in style I can prove I am up there with the likes of Kostya Tszyu, Floyd Mayweather, Arturo Gatti and Miguel Cotto. Particularly if I make him my sixteenth successive KO victim." Witter, who was to face WBC #2 ranked Gianluca Branco, sees himself getting a title shot with a win. "That puts me in line to fight the winner of champion [Arturo] Gatti and #1 ranked Floyd Mayweather. >>>> Q&A with Witter's opponent, Lovemore N'Dou

Woods-Hoye Get Vacant IBF Title Shot, Haye-Kelly in Co-Feature
2/15 - On March 4th, an exciting double-header will be televised on the BBC and promoted by Fight Academy, in Sheffield, England. Making his forth attempt at a light heavyweight title, 32-year old, Sheffield native, Clinton Woods, 36-3-1, will take on #1 ranked Rico Hoye, 18-0, in a vacant IBF title fight. Woods is coming off a February, 2004 loss to Glen Johnson, who dropped the IBF belt he now fights for, and most recently in October, Woods scored a 12th round TKO over Jason DeLisle for the IBF #2 spot. The 30-year old Hoye from Detroit, MI, took a decision from former champion Montell Griffin in September in an IBF eliminator for the #1 spot. In the co-feature, cruiserweight prospect David Haye, 12-1, will take a big step up in competition when he faces former title challenger Glenn Kelly, 31-2-1. • Discuss at the FORUM

John Ruiz: "I'm the man in the heavyweight division!"
2/15 - Two-time WBA heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz believes he is the most dominant heavyweight in the world today and challenges any of the other major world champions to put their belts on the line against him. >>>> much more

Talking Boxing with LOVEMORE N'DOU
N'Dou on the Witter fight: "If I can take him out, I'll take him out"
by Evan Korn
2/14 - On Saturday, WBC #4 ranked jr. welterweight Lovemore N'dou takes on top-rated Junior Witter in a WBC eliminator on the Bernard Hopkins versus Howard Eastman, non-televised undercard from the Staples Center. The South African-born, Australian-based N'Dou got a call for this bout after training for a potential showdown with Floyd Mayweather Jr. and is fully prepared for this tilt. N'Dou was labled too difficult a fight for Mayweather, so he continued to stay in shape, training for his next shot. N'Dou, 39-7-1, certainly didn't know an opportunity like this would arise just a few weeks away.

"When I was mentioned as a possible opponent for Mayweather [on Jan. 22nd], I trained very hard," said the 33-year old N'Dou. "When the Junior Witter fight came to me, I was already in shape. I'm always in shape. I'm coming to this fight prepared." >>>> much more from Lovemore on his upcoming showdown

Larios Clears Way for Guzman 2/12 - WBC champion Oscar Larios successfully defended his crown for the sixth time defeating Wayne McCullough, clearing the way for an April unification. >>> more

Castillo Wants Corrales, Tszyu after Diaz
"I expect to win every world title fight this year"
2/12 - WBC lightweight champion Jose Luis Castillo of Mexico said recently that he will deal with Julio Diaz on March 5th, then take on Chico Corrales and Kostya Tszyu in 2005. "I'm going to fight the best, starting with Julio Diaz and I expect to win every world title fight this year," Castillo said from his training facility north of Mexico City. Bob Arum of Top Rank said, "this is like the old days when the champions fought other champions. That's why I'm excited about Castillo against Diaz on March 5th because it leads to even bigger championship events. It's great for all fight fans - and for boxing - that the lightweight champions are willing to fight each other." WBO champ Diego 'Chico' Corrales has said he will fight the winner of Castillo vs. Diaz at Mandalay Bay on May 7th, live on Showtime. • Discuss at the FORUM

Talking Boxing with PAUL MALIGNAGGI
"You can't get into a war of words with Paul Malignaggi and expect to win it"
by Coyote Duran
2/11 - When Paul Malignaggi attended last Friday night's ShoBox card at The Foxwoods Resort and Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut, the only action he expected was a night of great fights and a chance to make an appearance. Maybe even shout a few words of "encouragement" to co-main eventer Al "Speedy" Gonzales who battled fellow young lion Oscar Diaz in an tough-as-nails effort.

The last thing "The Magic Man" expected was a disappearing act: His own.

Malignaggi (19-0 with 5 KOs), the WBC International Super Lightweight titlist, had an unscheduled scrap of his own when right after the Gonzales-Diaz fight ended, viewers were suddenly surprised with the sight of Paulie being spirited away by on-site police and tossed like a rainbow out of Foxwoods. >>>> much more with the "Magic Man" as he speaks on his recent altercation

Taylor Doubles Down in Preperation for Edouard on HBO
Taylor: "I'm looking forward to getting in the ring and giving my fans a good show"
2/11 - All systems are go for DiBella Entertainment's undefeated middleweight sensation Jermain Taylor (22-0, 16 KO's) as he gets set to square off against the upset-minded Daniel Edouard (16-0-2, 9 KO's) on Saturday night, February 19, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

The 2000 Olympic Bronze Medalist endured a heavy duty training camp in Miami, Florida, in preparation for the 10 round co-featured attraction on the Bernard Hopkins-Harold Eastman fight card. Both fights will be televised on HBO Sports World Championship Boxing at 9:45 PM ET/6:45 PM PT. >>>> Taylor prepared for the challenge of Edouard

Feeling Guilty, Zab Judah? Open Letter from Cosme Rivera
2/11 - IBF #1 ranked welterweight contender Cosme Rivera wants undisputed champion Zab Judah and wants him before the May 6th deadline set forth by the IBF. The 28-year old Rivera is riding a seven-fight win streak, with the last four by way of knockout and feels he hasn't even reached his prime. Read on for the following letter is addressed to Zab Judah, who himself is coming off a stoppage win over Cory Spinks. >>> Dear Zab, Congratulations! You lived up to your nickname, “Super,” knocking out Cory Spinks and I have tremendous respect for you and your team. >>>> much more on Rivera's open letter

Team Sykes Announces: 2005 is Year of the Bull
2/11 - Taurus “The Bull” Sykes (22-1-1), the 29-year old Brooklyn, NY heavyweight that has been the talk of the New York gym scene over the last few years is finally ready to crash the gates of the heavyweight division and claim his rightful place in 2005 as the hottest prospect in the heavyweight division. Step-one will dismantling Friday Ahunanya (20-2-1) on March 11th in Hobbs, NM. >>>> much more from Mr. Sykes

Larios Retains Title with Decision over McCullough, Ward Gets Win!
2/11 - From Lenmoore, CA at the Palace Indian Gaming Center on Fox's Best Damn Sports Show Period, Oscar Larios of Mexico, weatherd an early storm and came on strong in the championship rounds, to retain his WBC super bantamweight title over tough as nails Wayne McCullough. The 28-year old Larios, 55-3-1, had his hands full from the start, but mid way through he began to wear down the 34-year old McCullough, 27-5, who's chin kept him in the fight. Larios hit the veteran with everything he had and after 12-rounds scores were 116-111, 118-110 and 118-109 all in favor of Larios. Fight fans, it looks like April 9th will be a unification with WBO champ Joan Guzman and Larios in El Paso, Texas. On the televised co-feature, 2004 Olympic Gold Medalist Andre Ward, 2-0, learned a valuable lesson in the first when his opponent Kenny Kost, 8-1, caught him with a booming shot, but Ward finished strong taking a wide, 6-round unanimous decision by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 [twice]. >>> more on the Larios-Guzman unification

Talking Boxing with OCTAVIUS JAMES
"we have a great show in store for the boxing fans that night...our fighters are ready"
by Julius Stecker
2/10 - Promoting talent-packed cards in Merrillville, Indiana is what Octavius James and his team at ONE IN A MILLION, INC. have been doing for their fight fans for years now. James started ONE IN A MILLION under the direction and guidance of his father along with some advice he took to heart from former heavyweight champ Ernie Terrell. The advice he recieved just may be a main reason why he is packing in the crowds. "Fans come to see a great show and that is what we try to give them each and every time," James said. "Our fighters understand that. And also they don't back down from the challenge."

Among the top-notch fighters James works with, "Marvelous" Shay Mobley, comes to mind as a fighter who doesn't back down. Mobley, who will be featured on the "Date with Destiny" card on March 25th from the Radisson Hotel in Merrillville, overpowered Chicago middleweight Miguel Hernandez in a national televised victory on Telefutura. "A lot of times he has beat himself by not properly training," James said of Mobley. "He is going back into the ring on our March 25th "Date With Destiny" Card. So his future is definitely headed in the right direction." >>>> much more with top promoter Octavius James of ONE IN A MILLION

Witter to Face N'Dou 2/10 - "This is what British Boxing should be all about," said Mick Hennessy, who promotes the British trio of Howard Eastman, Junior Witter and Carl Froch. Mick now waits for Lovemore N'Dou to sign on the dotted line to fight Witter. >>> more on Witter and Froch's USA Debut

Calzaghe-Magee in March Needs Approval
2/10 - Iain Axon at frankwarren.tv is reporting that promoter Frank Warren announced undefeated WBO World Super-Middleweight Champion Joe Calzaghe will head to the Kings Hall in Belfast on Friday, March 18th to defend his title against Brian Magee. It is important to note that this will subject to final approval from the WBO and Universum's Peter Kohl who promotes the Interim champion Mario Veit. The show, titled Face Off, will see the hard-hitting southpaw from Newbridge in Wales make a record sixteenth defence of his crown against the tough Belfastman. >>>> more on Calzaghe's return to the ring

Marquez-Harrison Unify in May; Gomez Defends WBU on Friday
by Robin York
2/10 - Word has it that a Featherweight unification match between IBF/WBA Champion Juan Manuel Marquez and WBO king Scott Harrison will take place in Las Vega on May 7th.

If the fight had been made before Harrison's controversial draw with Colombian Victor Polo there may be a more optimistic outlook on his chances. Having said that, Marquez is also coming off a lackluster performance when out pointing Orlando Salido this past September. >>>> could Marquez and Harrison unify in May? Does Gomez have enough to retain his WBU title?

WBO Champion Miguel Cotto – A Rising Star
by Buster Paris
2/10 - I remember in 1987 there wasn’t anything really interesting or exciting to listen to on the radio. The number one hit was George Michael’s “Faith” and Madonna’s “Papa Don’t Preach” was being played everywhere. You just couldn’t escape it and the scene was getting stale.

Then almost as amazing as a second coming, almost messianic in timing they appeared. U2’s Joshua Tree was unlike anything I ever heard and yet so familiar. It made the world stop and changed my entire experience and perception of music. This album was the fulfillment of a musical promise made decades ago.

I had a similar experience watching Miguel Cotto fight Randall Bailey on December 11th 2004. >>>> more on Cotto

An Aggressive and Relentless David Estrada Rises Number Two
by Julius Stecker
2/9 - Just weeks ago at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, CT and on 'ShoBox', welterweight contender David Estrada, 18-1, took out Christopher Smith via an 11th round TKO for the IBF #2 spot. His performance can be summed up in one word; relentless. Estrada went out and physically broke down his fellow prospect, landing rights, lefts, and body shots, you name it and he landed it.

Heading into the 11th frame, Estrada was ahead on the cards with 99-90, 98-91 and 97-92 scores and put an exclaimation point on his performance scoring a stoppage over the previously unbeaten Smith, placing among the top young welterweights in the world. TalkingBoxing.com caught up with Estrada for a brief interview to get his views on his career and the welterweight division that he now finds himself in the thick of. >>>> quick Q&A with David Estrada

Wednesday Musings: Good Start and Future to 2005
by Carl Rice
2/9 - So the first two months of the year has not only presented relatively good matches, but have also provided a glimpse of how great of a year this can be for boxing. First Floyd Mayweather demolishes Miguel Cotto’s measuring stick to surmise the skill of Pretty Boy in Henry Bruseles (Cotto and Bruseles are both Puerto Rico and have spared together), then Arturo Gatti makes Jesse James Lejia appear to quit again in a big fight, which sets up a PPV later this year if Mayweather can take care of his responsibilities outside the ring; he seems to have entered a plea of no contest in his assault and battery case. Although this seems to be somewhat of a mismatch, Gatti has been at the weight class longer, and Buddy McGirt has proved that he can deliver in big fights. >>>> much more from Judah-Spinks II and Musings from Mr. Rice

Smith on ESPN2 2/9 - Tony Holden and Northeast Promotions presents an ESPN2 "Friday Night Fights" from Miami, OK on February 25th. The main-event is heavyweights Terry Smith, 22-1-1, taking on Fernely Feliz, 21-4. In the co-feature, welterweights Carlos Quintana, 18-0, faces a tough Nurhan Suleymanoglu, 15-2. Tickets are available at Buffalo Run Casino at 918-542-7140. Kransiqi-Whitaker in WBO Eliminator 2/9 - The career dream of European heavyweight champion Luan Krasniqi is within reach. On April 16th the 33-year-old German is fighting the one year younger American Lance Whitaker in an official WBO heavyweight title eliminator. >>> more

Guzman-Larios in Jr. Feather Unification
2/9 - Undefeated World Boxing Organization junior featherweight champion Joan “Little Tyson” Guzman, who recently inked a multi-year promotional agreement with Sycuan Ringside Promotions [more on the agreement], has signed to meet World Boxing Council super bantamweight champion Oscar Larios in a 122-pound unification bout April 9 in El Paso, Texas, it was announced today.

The fight will be part of the card featuring WBC super featherweight champion Marco Antonio Barrera. The card is being presented by the lead promoter, Golden Boy Promotions; the Guzman-Larios bout will be a co-promotion with Sycuan Ringside Promotions. >>>> more on this exciting showdown

A Hamed Return Could be Very Interesting
by Robin York
2/9 - Naseem Hamed, the former WBO Featherweight star is reported to be making a comeback after a three year absence from the ring this summer. While no opponents have been announced, the Sheffield man has said it will be in the middle east.

Hamed's last fight was against Spain's Manuel Calvo whom he out pointed for a landslide victory over 12 rounds in front of a disgraceful British crowd at the London Arena. 'The Prince' had been wowing audiences on both sides of the Atlantic during his 5 year reign as WBO Featherweight champion, most notably in his fights with Kevin Kelly, Jose Badillio, Tom Johnson and Augie Sanchez. >>>> much more on a potential Hamed return

Foreman Battles Soto; Undercard features New York talent
2/9 - Unbeaten Brooklyn junior middleweight Yuri Foreman (16-0, 7 KO's) will face Jesus Soto of Mexico (11-2-1, 10 KO's) in the main event of the third installment of DiBella Entertainment's Broadway Boxing Presented by Mohegan Sun slated for February 24, 2005 at the Grand Ballroom at the Manhattan Center. DBE president Lou DiBella made the announcement today at Gallagher's Steak House. >>>> much more

Boxing Returns to Lowell; Jones-Reid headlines February 25th
2/9 - Boxing returns February 25th to the home of “Irish” Micky Ward for the first time in more than a decade when NABA light heavyweight champion George Khalid Jones headlines NER Promotions’ inaugural professional boxing show, “Championship Boxing Returns to Lowell,” February 25 at Lowell Memorial Auditorium in Lowell, Massachusetts. In the last pro show held in Lowell, Ward stopped George Andujar in the third round of their September 10, 1994 match. >>>> much more

Arnaoutis Gets Santa Cruz 2/8 - WBO #8/IBF #13 jr. welterweight “Mighty” Mike Arnaoutis makes his fourth SHOWTIME appearance when he takes on Roberto Santa Cruz Feb. 18th, in a 12-round war. In the co-feature, Shamone Alvarez and Jose Medina mix it up in a battle of welterweights. Showtime televises at 11PM/ET.

Castillo-Diaz, Lacy-Williams Featured
2/8 - A pair of potentially explosive match-ups will be shown during SHOWTIME’s Free Preview Weekend when two-time time WBC Champ Jose Luis Castillo takes on former IBF titleholder Julio Diaz and undefeated Jeff Lacy risks his IBF super middleweight crown against once-beaten Rubin Williams on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, March 5th. The world championship doubleheader, which will be co-promoted by Top-Rank, Inc., and Gary Shaw Productions, LLC, will take place at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas and start at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the west coast). >>>> much, much more

Spotlight shines again on Ward 2/8 - Robert Morales of LA Times. From HBO to Fox's "Best Damn Sports Show Period." Not too shabby for the first two fights of Andre Ward's professional career. >> more

Guzman Signs Pact with Sycuan Promotions
2/8 - Old-time cowboys loved their home on the range. But World Boxing Organization junior featherweight champion Joan Guzman, the pride of the Dominican Republic, loves his home east of San Diego, in the "Valley of Sycuan."

To prove his affection for his warm relationship with Sycuan Ringside Promotions, which is an offshoot of the hugely successful Sycuan Resort & Casino in El Cajon, Calif., Guzman has entered into a new, multi-year promotional contract. >>>> Guzman signs deal, Excitied about new deal

Olympic Gold Medalist Ward on "BDSSP" Tonight!
2/8 - Andre Ward, the sole U.S. 2004 Athens Olympic Boxing Gold Medalist in the light heavyweight division will appear live today on Fox Sports Net's "The Best Damn Sports Show Period." Ward, 1-0, will promote his February 10th middleweight bout against undefeated Kenny Kost, 8-0, at the Palace Indian Gaming Center in Lemoore, CA, as part of the WBC Super Bantamweight World Championship bout between Wayne "The Pocket Rocket" McCullough challenging the champion, Oscar “Chololo” Larios. Both bouts will be broadcast live on the BDSSP 9/11 pm (PST). • Discuss at the FORUM

Talking Boxing with WAYNE POCKET ROCKET McCULLOUGH
"The exposure I'm gonna get from Fox from The Best Damn Sports Show is fantastic"
by Coyote Duran
2/7 - When you're one of the little guys in the fight game, sometimes desire, dedication, commitment, skill and chin of steel just aren't enough.

Sometimes it's just as good to have a rocket in your pocket.

Wayne McCullough (27-4 with 18 KOs) just happens to have one. This rocket has gotten him through the tough scrapes and times when all of the aforementioned traits combined couldn't. What fan could possibly forget The British Boxing Board of Control refusing to license McCullough to fight when his cranial cyst was discovered in 2000 and they feared one good shot would kill him? Or how 'bout his disheartening but gutsy loss to WBO Featherweight titleholder Scott Harrison back in March of 2003? Or maybe you recall McCullough's fiery clash with hard-nosed Erik Morales in 1999? Rocket fuel? Or is it just plain heart, baby? >>>> having officially changed his name to Wayne Pocket Rocket McCullough, Mr. Duran catches up with the former champ before his Feb. 10th WBC title fight

Duva's Stars Diaz, Holt Stay Hot; Foreman Headlines Feb. 24th
2/7 - Duva Boxing's trio of young prospects - Kendall Holt, Oscar Diaz and Shaun George - all coming off impressive nationally televised victories in the past week, have established themselves as serious contenders on the fight scene. Holt and Diaz are of particular interest because they fight in the 140-pound division, the hottest category in boxing these days. The division includes such stars as Floyd Mayweather, Arturo Gatti, Kostya Tszyu and Miguel Cotto. >>>> Duva Boxing Stars Remain on Track; New York City Stars Featured on DiBella's Broadway, Feb. 24th

Can Judah Start to Win Droves of Fans Outside of Brooklyn?
by Andres Antonio Carriedo
2/7 - It was not a time capsule performance, nor was it a jaw-dropping win. However, Zab “Super” Judah’s ninth round TKO over Cory Spinks for the undisputed welterweight championship this past Saturday night is the best win in his nine-years as a professional. The budding star from Brooklyn is one of those rare fighters who has managed to keep himself on the cusp of greatness for the last six years without swaying either side against the middle long enough to push himself one way or the other. >>>> a may not have been a jaw dropping win, but Zab deserves his due

A Focused Zab Judah Conquers Cory Spinks
by Frank Gonzalez
2/6 - Zab Judah (33-2-1-24 KO's) scored a TKO 9 victory over Welterweight Champion, Cory Spinks (34-3-0-11 KO's) Saturday night in front of Cory's hometown fans in St. Louis. This redeeming win over Spinks evens their records against each other at 1-1 and invites a rubber match that might ultimately settle the score.

In December of 2003, Cory Spinks rose to fame, when he put on a boxing clinic that demonstrated how the refined application of the sweet science could tame a savage, brawling beast in the ring-Ricardo Mayorga. >>>> boxing's best post-fight report is here, with top of the line photos by Bill Greenblatt/UPI | post-fight quotes from Judah, Spinks, Barrett and Beck

And NEW Undisputed Welterweight Champion...Zab Judah!
2/5 - Before a record crown at the Savvis Center in St. Louis and on Showtime, Zab Judah, 33-2, scored an impressive 9th round stoppage win for the WBC/IBF/WBA undisputed welterweight title over Cory Spinks, 34-3. The first half of the fight, neither seemed to take control, as Judah kept pressure on, but Cory managed it well from the outside with his jab. In the 7th, Judah dropped Spinks, however referee Armando Garcia did not rule it an 'official' knockdown, but it became clear that Spinks was tiring and on weak legs. Judah continued applying the heat in the 8th and finally scored a knockdown in the 9th and forced Garcia to stop the fight with an onslaught after Spinks rose. Official time of stoppage was 2:49 and the score cards after 8 complete rounds were 77-75, 79-73 and 78-75 all in favor of Judah. >>>> for a great round by round wrapt along with excellent photos by Bill Greenblatt/UPI | Q&A Spinks | Q&A Judah

Beck Puts up a Fight, but Barrett Stops him in Nine
2/5 - In the co-feature of Judah-Spinks in St. Louis, MO, Monte Barrett, 31-3, battled through some rough spots against Owen Beck, 24-1, to score a 9th round stoppage in a WBC/IBF heavyweight eliminator. Barrett dropped Beck in the 2nd round, but Beck came back with authority in the 3rd. A clash of heads in the 4th opened a cut over Barrett's, but was ruled a punch had caused the gash by referee Jay Nady. The action continued and in the 9th, Barrett dropped Beck twice and Nady halted the bout at 2:52. • Discuss at the FORUM

Freitas-Johnson for the IBF, Pellulo has Big Plans in Store
by Mario Sergio Lima
2/5 - In the most recent column of Eduardo Ohata, the Brazilian Dan Rafael, in the newspaper, Folha de S. Paulo, he brought the news that Acelino “Popo” Freitas’s next opponent could be IBF #2 ranked Levander Johnson in May. Freitas, 36-1, had a deal to fight recently stripped IBF champ Julio Diaz, although Team Diaz says they never signed anything. The Freitas-Diaz fight was to be showcased at HBO in May, but Diaz decided to fight WBC champ Jose Luis Castillo, March 5th on Showtime. With the turn of events, Johnson, 33-4-2, is in line for a shot at the IBF title and according to Freitas' promoter Art Pelullo, the deal is close to complete. If Freitas wins, look for a unification against Pelullo promoted WBO champion Deigo Corrales or the winner of Castillo-Diaz. Pelullo also claimed that since Diaz had signed to fight Freitas, which Diaz himself denies, he will sue his camp. • Discuss at the FORUM

Holt TKO's Diaz in Eighth, Diaz Outslugs Gonzales over Ten
2/5 - Kendall Holt snapped David Diaz’s head back a number of times before the referee stopped the fight at 2:26 in the eighth round in a junior welterweight tussle Friday on “ShoBox: The New Generation.” In the junior welterweight co-feature from Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Conn., Oscar “El Matador” Diaz out-brawled Al “Speedy” Gonzales over 10 action-packed rounds to take a unanimous decision 97-93 and 96-94 twice. >>>> post-fight report

Jauregui, Andrade, Quiles and Brown Victorious from Florida
2/5 - Golden Boy Promotions featured a pair of exciting fights last night from the UNF Arena in Jacksonville, FL. In the main-event, former IBF lightweight champ Javier Jauregui, 48-11-2, scored a unanimous 10-round decision over Cristian Favela, 9-6-3, taking scores of 99-90 [twice] and 97-92. In undercard action, top rated and unbeaten super middleweight Librado Andrade stopped Nicolas Cervera, 34-5, in the 3rd round for his 16th knockout victory and 22nd win overall. >>> From the Seminole Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood, FL, promoted by Warrior's Boxing, Ricky Quiles, 36-6-3, won a narrow 12-round split decision for the IBF #2 spot at lightweight against Edner Cherry, 17-2-2, by scores of 114-113, 116-111 Quiles and 114-113 Cherry. WBC #2 ranked cruiserweight Dale Brown, 33-3-1, ran through Shelby Gross, 15-2, dropping his 5 times in route to a 5th round stoppage. • Discuss at the FORUM

Gomez-Saunders Headline Cruiserweight Battle
2/5 - Northwest cruiserweight giant slayer, Gary Gomez (13-4-0, 5KOs) will face Rayco Saunders (14-3-1, 6KOs) in the 35th installment of the Battle at the Boat boxing series on a special Friday night edition, February 25th, at the Emerald Queen Casino. Gomez dismantled two undefeated Northwest cruiserweights recently when he KO’d Michael Sams and Chad Van Sickle. “We like this fight”, said promoter Brian Halquist. “It’s one of those fights where both opponents think they’re going to win. That thinking usually results in a great fight”, said Halquist. Welterweight David Torres, 7-0, will face Cesar Vega, 6-4, on undercard action. • Discuss at the FORUM

Talking Boxing with LEVANDER JOHNSON
"I would like to fight somebody like Arturo Gatti at 140, but I am staying strong at 135"
by Julius Stecker
2/4 - Much has been said in recent days about Julio Diaz being stripped of his IBF title, in order to fight WBC and Ring Magazine Lightweight Champion, Jose Luis Castillo. Now that the Diaz-Castillo fight is confirmed for March 5th on Showtime, TalkingBoxing.com decided to give the guy who was left out that equation, IBF #3 ranked Levander Johnson, a chance to speak. The 35-year old, Atlantic City native was scheduled to fight Diaz in the coming weeks, but now looks to fight for a vacant title against #4 ranked Steffano Zoff. Johnson, 33-4-2, has been a top contender for years and TalkingBoxing wanted to see how he felt about the turn of events. Johnson is trying to stay sharp in the gym and said, "I don't care what [Diaz] does, because he is going to have to fight me anyway. All I am focusing on is fighting for the IBF title." Read on to see what Johnson had to say about the Diaz fight and much more. >>>> much more from Levander

Spinks, Judah Show Respect, Fight Night to be Different?
Judah, "Everyone knows I cannot be beaten when I am focused and on my A game"
2/4 - "This is not an easy fight, but I do not get paid exhibitions like a lot of guys. I like Zab but this is business," WBA/WBC/IBF welterweight world champion Cory Spinks told the media and fans yesterday to promote his grudge match tomorrow night at the Savvis Center in St. Louis against Zab Judah. Judah lost their April, 2004 fight by decision, but wants to show St. Louis he will be the best in this re-match. "I am in the Show Me State and I am here to show you who is pound-for-pound the best," the former jr. welterweight champion said. "I have had a tremendous training camp. Everyone knows I cannot be beaten when I am focused and on my A game." With an exciting main-event between Spinks and Judah, Showtime landed a sensational co-feature elimination bout between heavyweights Monte Barrett and Owen Beck. “I never really want to hurt anybody, but I want to hurt this guy. I am going to put Beck to sleep," Barrett said with a quiet confidence. "Beating Barrett will help my stock go up. I have trained so hard for this. I will leave the ring undefeated like always," Beck blasted back. The doubleheader takes place tomorrow at 9 PM/ET on Showtime, delayed on the west coast. >>> Q&A with Cory Spinks | Q&A with Zab Judah • Discuss at the FORUM

Boxing Legend Max Schmeling Passes Away at 92
2/3 - International Boxing Hall of Fame announced its flags will fly at half-staff in memory of heavyweight champion Max Schmeling, who passed away Wednesday, February 2nd, at the age of 99. Born in Klein Luckaw, Brandenburg, Germany on September 28th, 1905, Schmeling turned pro in his native land in 1924. In 1936, Schmeling scored a 12th round knockout over then unbeaten Joe Louis. In the rematch two years later, Louis, who won the world title in 1937, scored a 1st round knockout. Schmeling continued to box until 1948 when he retired with a 56-10-4 record. "He will be missed," said Hall of Fame Executive Director Edward Brophy. In 1992, Schmeling was elected into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. • Discuss at the FORUM

Sanders Halts Return 2/3 - South African heavyweight boxer Corrie Sanders was to face Lance Whitaker on March 19th, but told Micheal Green at News24.com that his back injury will prevent a return. "This is not how I wanted to end my boxing career, but maybe my back injury is a sign that I must stop." He continued saying, "I have been battling with this back injury for a while and it is very uncomfortable."

HBO Features Ponce De Leon, Gonzalez
2/3 - Having steadily risen up the ranks, taking on all comers, and establishing themselves as two of boxing's most exciting young stars Daniel Ponce De Leon and Johnny Gonzalez will attempt to move one step closer. On Thursday, February 17th, they square off against their toughest opposition yet in a pair of elimination bouts to be televised on HBO Latino's "Oscar De La Hoya Presents Boxeo De Oro" live from The Avalon in Los Angeles, California.

The unbeaten De Leon (24-0, 23 KOs) will battle Celestino Caballero (20-2, 15 KOs) in a 12 round IBF junior featherweight title eliminator, while in the co-feature, the power-punching Gonzalez (26-4, 24 KOs) squares off against Adonis Rivas (28-5, 13 KOs) in a 12 round WBC bantamweight title eliminator. >>>> more on these exciting eliminators

Diaz, Gonzales Headline Seperate Bouts Friday on SHOBOX
2/3 - Chicagoland fan favorites David Diaz and Al "SPEEDY" Gonzales head to the East Coast this week to battle in separate ten round junior welterweight showdowns televised live on Showtime's Friday Night Boxing Series, SHOBOX "The New Generation" beginning at 10PM Chicago time." >>>> much more | Q&A with Diaz

Spinks-Judah Largest Crowd for a Boxing Match, Event Sold Out
2/3 - History will be made on Saturday when a sold-out crowd of over 22,000 people will pack Savvis Center—the most people to ever witness a boxing match at an indoor arena—for Spinks vs. Judah II: Arch Rivals...Meet Me in St. Louis, which is being broadcast on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/PT. >>>> more on boxing's largest live gate for an indoor fight

Williams Wants Harrison 2/2 - Heavyweight Danny Williams, who lost a WBC title fight to Vitali Klitschko, called out rival Audley Harrison today on BBC Radio Five Live. "I'm hoping to box next for a European title or against a named American, but I'd lick my lips if Harrison wanted to fight me because I've been calling him out for ages."

Spinks Prepared for Hometown Showdown
2/2 - Undisputed welterweight champion Cory "The Next Generation" Spinks, 34-2, is happy to be at home in St. Louis, MO for his battle with Zab Judah this Saturday on SHOWTIME at the Savvis Center. The talented southpaw spoke today at one of his final open workouts before the big fight. "I trained hard, feel great and am ready to go," said Spinks. "I am planning to have fun in the ring. It is great to be back home. For Spinks, he is focused on the task at hand and isn't worried about Judah's talk. "I am going to go in the ring and do what I always do. I plan to shine and get my hand raised. I feel no pressure. Zab talks a lot, but that is just him. I do not let it get to me. Do not forget, I fought Ricardo Mayorga. The things he was saying before our fight; now, that was insulting." Q&A with Spinks • Discuss at the FORUM

Vargas Tix Going 2/2 - Tickets for Fernando Vargas’ return to the ring on March 26th on HBO went on sale in Corpus Christi, TX and in four hours, over $100,000 of tickets were sold. Vargas, 25-2, will face Ray Joval, 33-3, at American Bank Center.

Diaz Voluntarily Relinquishes IBF
2/2 - Top lightweight Julio Diaz voluntarily relinquished his IBF championship today. Scott Woodworth, executive vice president of Sycuan Ringside Promotions, which promotes Diaz, explained the champion’s reasons and regrets for this action. "Julio would have like nothing better than to have carried the IBF belt into the ring against [Jose Luis] Castillo in a title unification bout [on March 5th]. But after long and deliberate consideration, both Julio and Sycuan Ringside Promotions felt it better not to draw the IBF into a protracted law suit with Lou DiBella, even though we certainly would have won any legal battle. >>>> more from Camp Diaz on the droppage of the IBF title

White, Mobley, Holmes and Solis Pound Their Way to Destiny
2/2 - Fresh from his overpowering National Televised victory over Chicago middleweight Miguel H