March, 2005
The Surprising Contender, Alfonso Gomez Jr.
by
Julius Stecker
3/31 - NBC’s Contender has captivated the attention of the
boxing world over the past month. One fighter in particular has captured the attention of fight fans, demonstrating the heart, trust and passion of a
champion. This contender you ask?
None other than Alfonso Gomez Jr.
Gomez, 11-2-1, took on a bigger and world rated Peter Manfredo Jr. in the first week of the reality series and managed to take him down in an action packed affair. The episode earned Gomez the respect of fight fans nationwide. Now that he has made it to the final eight, he will be looking to earn a chance at a $1 million dollars and a world of opportunity. | Get ready to ask your own questions of Alfonso, TONIGHT at 8:30 PM/ET!
Beets, Awinongya Clash at the Boat
by Dr. Joseph de Beauchamp
3/31 - On Saturday Night, April 2nd, Troy Beets (11-5-1, 7kos) faces down with Joseph Awinongya (12-8-5, 3kos) in the ten-round main event at the Emerald Queen Casino. Beets, the Mississippi southpaw, planned to take on Kevin Johnson, and a week ago, the card changed. At the last moment, Beets heard that he must meet up with the Ghana native, Awinongya. With almost no notice, Joseph stayed in training and ready for the battle.
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SANCHEZ RETURNS TO WHIPPANY | Nice Undercard on April 8th
3/31 - Former Jr. Featherweight champion Agapito "El Ciclón"
Sanchez is set to return to the ring April 8 when he headlines an
exciting boxing event that will be presented by promoter Andre Kut's
KEA Boxing. Along with Sanchez, who will see action against an
opponent to be determined, will be Middletown's Johnny Molnar (19-2-10
KO's), the popular Wendy LaMotta (1-0), undefeated Pawel Wolak (4-0, 2
KOs) and
former University of New Haven football standout, Lynhurst's Wayne Johnson (6-0, 4 KO's) in his New Jersey homecoming.
Castillo Likens Corrales Bout, "Like Two Buffaloes Colliding"
3/30 - In a highly anticipated match-up, the two best 135-pound boxers in the world will square off when two-time WBC Lightweight Champion Jose Luis Castillo takes on WBO Champion Diego "Chico" Corrales
in a world title unification bout Saturday, May 7th on SHOWTIME at 9 PM/ET. Get their comments on the fights!
Guzman to Larios, "Don't run from the unification bout we agreed on!"
3/30 - After a late afternoon training session in Indio, California, W.B.O. Super Bantamweight Champion Joan Guzman had this message for fellow one hundred and twenty-two pound Champion Oscar “El Chololo” Larios.
“Don’t run from me Chololo, the people have no interest in a re-match with Wayne McCullough. A unification bout between you and I is what the fans want, the fight we agreed to before your unfortunate injury.”
Talking Boxing with WAYNE BRAITHWAITE & JEAN-MARC MORMECK
by
Brian Skjold
3/30 - In the fight game very little is guaranteed, but when Wayne Braithwaite and Jean Marc Mormeck lace up their gloves and climb the steps to that haloed square ring we know that only one thing is for certain….History will be made. On April 2nd the DCU center in Worcester Mass. will host the first cruiserweight unification bout since 1988 when Evander Holyfield beat Carlos DeLeon for the WBC, WBA, & IBF titles, and
we will finally have a unified champ in the once fledgling division.
As Replacements Go, Fans Treated Well with Ruiz-Toney
Ruiz, Toney and 'Stoney' Hype April 30th HBO Bout, but Quickly Turn to Wild Antics
by
Richard Thomas
3/29 - Today’s press conference at the Madison Square Garden Theater lobby was for the James Toney vs. John Ruiz world title fight for Ruiz’ WBA heavyweight title, and it was full of excitement and drama as the two combatants was going to go head-to-head before the scheduled April 30th fight.
The press conference was for John Ruiz vs. James Toney but one could have sworn that it was for James Toney vs. Norman ‘Stoney’ Stone (John Ruiz’ brash trainer). And the drama all began when the no holds barred speaker James Toney came up to the podium. :: Press Conference Video
Thoughts On Chavez Jr. and Father & Son Teams
by
Buster Paris
3/29 - Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. He’s 19 years old. His professional record is 17 wins and no losses. 70% of his wins by KO and his father is boxing legend Julio Cesar Chavez. I can’t help but wonder what kind of career this kid is going to have. You have to figure that when he was born the doctor smacked his bottom and Jr. countered with a hard left hook.
Chavez’s more recent opponent was Ryan Maraldo. This was a bout on the under card of the March 19 2005 Morales-Pacquiao fight.
Maraldo fighting out of Avon Indiana (17 wins, 15 losses and 1 draw and looking every bit like a Ryan from Indiana) entered the arena first, wearing an old beat up white t-shirt and looking bewildered and lost in the bright lights of Las Vegas Nevada and as he stood there looking around at the enormity of the crowd you couldn’t help but romanticize how great it would be if Ryan beat the son of a legend…the stuff movies are made of.
One In A Million? I say thee nay! Try Four In A Million
by
Coyote Duran
3/29 - To paraphrase a Kyle Broflovsky quote from
South Park: I learned something this weekend.
I learned that popularity, support and love all act in proportion to your experience and location. I learned this all while attending One In A Million Promotion's Date With Destiny show at the Radisson Hotel in Merrillville, Indiana on Friday night. Scheduled were six potentially entertaining scraps featuring local hot prospects. The fights didn't disappoint the enthusiastic capacity crowd, but as entertained as I was by some good, quality action, I wasn't so much caught up in the action as I was in the talent that delivered the action. | One in a Million
Fernando ‘Not So Ferocious Anymore' Vargas
by
Frank Gonzalez Jr.
3/29 - After HBO replayed the highly entertaining war between Erik Morales and Manny Pacquaio, they shifted into a pre-fight interview with Fernando Vargas, who was the featured fighter of the evening. During that interview, Vargas talked about his back problem and how he decided against surgery in favor rebuilding himself with a new conditioning coach and regime. He talked about being a warrior and about how he wants his children to see him. He couldn't hold back his tears as he teetered on the recognition that if things didn't go well in the ring,
that this could be the end of his boxing career.
TalkingBoxing with VONDA WARD
"I've been a natural athlete all my life"
Jason Peck
3/28 - Ask the average layman about women's boxing, and he'll be lucky if he gets past Laila Ali, Jacqui Frazier and Hillary Swank, who isn't a boxer but played one in "Million Dollar Baby." And it's a real shame, because if they looked a bit further they'd have a hard time missing 6'6 heavyweight contender Vonda Ward, who ranks among the elite in women's boxing.
Between her two careers as a professional fighter and a personal trainer, she's been rather busy. Nevertheless, she took some time to talk with TalkingBoxing.com on her first loss, the state of women's boxing, and why she doesn't care too much for Laila Ali!
Lacy: "I'm Tailor-Made for Bernard!"
3/28 - Undefeated IBF super middleweight champion JEFF "LEFT HOOK" LACY reiterated his offer to defend his title against undisputed middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins in light of comments made to the Las Vegas Review-Journal by Richard Schaefer, CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, Hopkins' promotional company,
that there is still no deal for a fight against Jermain Taylor.
Vargas Decisions Joval in 10, Darchinyan Scores KO
3/27 - Last night on HBO's "Boxing After Dark" from Corpus Christi, Texas, former two-time junior middleweight champion Fernando Vargas, 25-2, made a successful return to the ring after a 15-month hiatus winning a unanimous 10-round decision over Raymond Joval, 33-4, by scores of 98-92, 96-94 and 97-93. Vargas last fought in December of 2003 and showed some ring rust, but credit Joval with bringing his best to Vargas in front of 9000+ fans. After the fight, Vargas graded his performance a '4' on a scale of 1-10 and also called out WBC champ Javier Castillejo.
post-fight report >>> From Sydney, Australia, IBF flyweight champ Vic Darchinyan, 23-0, stopped Mzukisi Sikali, 32-6, in the eighth round to retain the IBF flyweight title. •
Discuss at the FORUM
"Big Time" Ready, Looking to Take Brock Down April 23rd
by
Julius Stecker
3/25 - Top Rated Heavyweight Contender,
Jameel McCline, 31-4-3, has been a guy who has always given his best, going back to the first first time I saw him fight live.
Fans will remember when McCline shocked a lot of the boxing world in July of 2001. On that hot summer night in Las Vegas, "Big Time" destroyed Michael Grant in a brutal 1st round knockout. From that moment, McCline went from a solid pro, to a bonafide contender. He has since racked up wins over solid contenders Lance Whitaker, Shannon Briggs, Charles Shufford and Cedric Boswell.
This past November, the Clifton, NJ native stepped in the ring for a shot at the IBF title against long-time friend Chris Byrd. The fight ended in a controversial split decision, that didn’t fall McCline’s way. Now on April 23rd as part of an action packed ESPN PPV fight card, McCline is at a cross-roads type fight and will be taking on young, undefeated contender and former Olympian Calvin Brock. TalkingBoxing.com caught up Jameel to get his take on
the fight and much more.
Cotto-Abdulaev?; Ruiz-Toney Lands at MSG; Arnaoutis Wants Diaz
3/25 - 'El Nuevo Dia', one of Puerto Rico's top newspapers, is reporting that WBO champ Miguel Cotto will face 2000 Olympic Gold Medalist, Mohammed Abdulaev on June 11th. Abdulaev, 15-1, bested Cotto in the amateurs and his only pro loss was a controversial stoppage to Emmanuel Clottey in 2003. For Cotto, 23-0, a rematch with DeMarcus Corley is out of the picture as he looks to move forward making a 3rd defense of his title.
>>> The press conference to announce WBA heavyweight champion John Ruiz defending his title against three-time world champion James Toney at Madison Square Garden on April 30th, will take place Tuesday, March 29th.
>>> Mike Michael, advisor to Cestus Management's jr. welterweight sensation "Mighty" Mike Arnaoutis, has issued a challenge to top junior welterweight prospect Oscar Diaz. Says Michael, "Oscar Diaz and 'Mighty' Mike is a match made in heaven. Two of the best light welterweight prospects in the world, getting into the ring on live television and proving who the best man is!" •
Discuss at the FORUM
DeMarco Honored on Gibbs-Pacheco
3/25 - Cappiello Promotions will honor former World Welterweight Champion, "The Flaming Fury," Tony DeMarco in a special presentation on Friday, April 1st at Mohegan Sun.
Sunday, Tarver Guest Stars on "The Contender"
3/25 - Sunday, March 27th at 8pm ET, boxing star Antonio "Magic Man" Tarver will impart his wisdom to the 12 remaining boxers on NBC’s new reality series “The Contender”. “I’m honored to be able to share my story and help the remaining boxers on “The Contender” to achieve their dreams in the ring.”
Braithwaite, Mormeck Weigh-In on Showdown
3/25 - Two boxers widely recognized as the most talented in the exciting cruiserweight division square off when WBC champion Wayne Braithwaite faces his WBA counterpart, Jean-Marc Mormeck, April 1st on Showtime.
Halquist signs Kevin Johnson
3/25 - Northwest boxing promoter, Brian Halquist, announced today that he has signed heavyweight Kevin Johnson. “Kevin is one of the best young heavyweight prospects in the world” Halquist said.
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Five Questions Surrounding the Heavyweight Division
by
Garth Weaver
3/25 - Recently, we received some questions surrounding the hardly discussed heavyweight division and TalkingBoxing writer Garth Weaver took the five questions head on. The e-mailer, who will remain nameless, asked, "I am just interested in the heavyweight division being sorted out." Number one, is WBC champ Vitali Klitschko really the best heavyweight? Two, can Andrew Golota unify the titles? Three, can IBF champ Chris Byrd unify the titles? Four, can James Toney unify the titles? And fifthly, can ANYONE unify the titles?
There you have it, the five most pressing issues surrounding the big men. The responses are taken in order, which maybe isn't a good idea since the division is totally out-of-order. I guess to keep with the theme, that the heavyweights are in disarray, I will start with three.
Vargas, Joval's Final Remarks on HBO "After Dark" Battle
3/1 - HBO's "Boxing After Dark" this week features a return of a star and former jr. middleweight champion Fernando Vargas, taking on a tough middleweight challenger, Raymond Joval.
Both spoke at a press conference to wrap up the successful promotion at American Bank Center, Corpus Christi, TX where the fight will take place this Saturday night at 9:45PM/ET.
Fernando Vargas: ”I am very excited about Saturday night. We worked hard in camp. Danny Smith is a great trainer. >>> get their final comments, here
Mayweather Speaks on Gatti
3/24 - Yesterday, the press heard from Floyd Mayweather Jr. as he discussed his June 25th, HBO PPV showdown against WBC 140-lb champ Arturo "Thunder" Gatti. Now you can watch excellent video taken of the press junket by Bill Emes and watch first hand as Floyd and Gatti's trainer Buddy McGirt square off in a war of words.
Echols-Ikeke, April 15th on ESPN2
3/24 - Banner Promotions presents a sensational fight card on April 15th in the Pend O’reille Pavillion at Northern Quest Casino, Airway Heights, WA, aired live on ESPN2’s “Friday Night Fights.” In the 12-round middleweight main event, WBA #8 ranked Antwun “Kid Dyn-o-mite” Echols, 31-5-1, will fight WBC #5 Kingsley “Sharp Knuckle” Ikeke, 22-1, in an IBF elimination bout for the #2 ranking.
Two outstanding young prospects will be featured in super middleweight fights. 21-year old Andre Dirrell, 3-0, and his 20-year old brother Anthony Dirrell, also 3-0, will fight in separate six-rounders against opponents to be announced.
"I finally get a shot at Corrales"
3/24 - In a highly anticipated match-up, the two best 135-pound boxers in the world will square off when two-time WBC Lightweight Champion Jose Luis Castillo takes on WBO Champion Diego “Chico’’ Corrales in a world title unification bout Saturday, May 7, 2005, on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).
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Vargas needs to make a Ferocious Statement
by
Garth Weaver
3/24 - Well here we are, two days and a wake up away from March 26th. That is the night that Fernando “El Feroz” Vargas (24-2, 22 KO’s) is slated to make his first appearance on the comeback trail versus Raymond “Hallelujah” Joval, 33-3, 15 KO’s), at American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, TX.
The Ferocious one is coming back after a long layoff and is going to be campaigning as a Middleweight for this bout. His last fight was in December of 2003 against Tony Marshall, which resulted in a 7th round TKO victory for Vargas. The win over Marshall was considered a lackluster performance by many, and even Vargas was critical of his own performance. When he left the ring that night, he also left behind a lot of questions that people want to see answered.
A lot of questions that surfaced are geared around Vargas’ stamina, chin, and whether or not his heroic battles with Felix Trinidad and Oscar De La Hoya put too many miles on him too soon in his career. Anyone who has seen both of those fights knows exactly what I am referring too, for both of those fights were all out wars. There are many questions and they will be answered in due time, Saturday night maybe some can be answered.
Another important issue is the long layoff that he has taken. Many people think that his lengthy stay away from the ring is going to be detrimental to his fight game. Then again, there are many insiders that think that his time off will do him well, as he will come back to the sport a healthy, well rested fighter. For the sake of the sport, lets hope that it is the latter of the two.
Whichever way it goes, Fernando Vargas needs to make a Ferocious Statement on March 26th when he fights Joval. Raymond Joval has never been stopped in his 36 fights, as his 3 losses were all decisions. If Fernando Vargas comes back into the ring looking like the Ferocious, Hungry fighter that we all knew him to be, then it could be a short night for Joval. • Discuss at the FORUM
TalkingBoxing's British Update
Magee back with intent; Calzaghe shambles does no-one any favours
by
Dave Crellin
3/24 - Eamonn Magee is one of the last people you’d cast as Cinderella but his fairytale comeback was certainly helped by Alan Vester’s convincing imitation of a pumpkin last Friday night in Belfast.
Magee was headlining the Kings Hall show following the abandonment of the Joe Calzaghe-Brian Magee bill-topper (more on that below). The Belfast southpaw retained his WBU welterweight belt against perennial contender Vester and, whilst the Dane never showed much inclination to cause an upset, Magee’s dispatching of the challenger inside three rounds was nonetheless impressive.
Witter Defends vs. Kotelnik
3/23 - Junior Witter will make a mandatory defence of his European 140-lb crown against contender Ukrainian Andreas Kotelnik, 25-1, in England following Hennessy Sports successful purse bid for the contest today. "Only WBA #1 Souleymane Mbyae has ever got the better of him and that came on a split decision in a WBA light welterweight title eliminator," Witter’s promoter Mick Hennessy said.
"Contenders" Talk with TB.COM
3/23 - NBC's "The Contender" is off to a successful start and recently, stars Jimmy Lange, Jesse Brinkley and Ishe Smith took some time to talk with TalkingBoxing about their careers and thoughts on the show. This Thursday night at 8:30PM/ET, Lange enters the TalkingBoxing chat room to talk with his fans. After Lange, then head over to MaxBoxing.com for their chat with heavyweight contender Calvin Brock! Also in the coming days, look for a Q&A with Alfonso Gomez, Jr., who bested Peter Manfredo Jr. on the first episode!
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Morales-Pacquiao: A Fight to Remember | Gatti-Mayweather Update
by
Carl Rice
3/23 - The fight between Erik Morales and Manny Pacquiao was a sight to behold. Here were two men giving everything they had for the glory of victory. It was reminiscent of what Larry Merchant said during the fight between James Toney and Vassiliy Jirov two years ago when he said "it's hard to believe men can do this."
Pacquiao took everything that Morales had to offer (and there was a lot of it), and Morales took the lightning Pacquiao was throwing his way. There were times during the fight in which I felt someone was about to go down, but that time never came as both men gave and took, neither one wanting to relinquish an inch of the ring.
I was so into the fight that although I bet that the fight wouldn't go 12 rounds, when Pacquiao got cut, I was screaming for the fight to continue. The crowd was amped on every punch thrown, whether it was blocked or landed; this was no doubt the most hyped up crowd I have ever been in, which was befitting because this was the best fight I've ever seen live.
Novak Taking Advantage of His Opportunities
by
Julius Stecker
3/23 - Over the past year, One in a Million Boxing, the mid-est's premier promotional company, has put on exciting, action packed fight cards. Lightweight prospect
Johnny Novak, 12-1, is one of the reasons why
their fight cards have consistently sold out. This Friday Night at the Radisson Star Plaza in Merrillville, IN, Novak will be testing his skills in front of
his fans and Talkingboxing.com caught up with the 24-year old Novak to get his take on the fight, his career and so much more.
>>>> Novak battles a 'TBA' this Friday night on One in a Million's "Date with Destiny" card
Roberto Benitez Ready for Pro Debut, April 8th on ESPN FNF
by
Danny Serratelli
3/22 - After a stellar amateur career, 2004 Olympian
Roberto Benitez will be making his highly anticipated professional debut on April 8th on ESPN's "Friday Night Fights". Not only can Roberto fight, but he is also a very charismatic and well rounded individual.
The New York, N.Y native is one of the good guys for the sport and fans can take pride in knowing that he is a good guy in addition to being a rising bantamweight star. It is always exciting to follow a guy's career from the very beginning of the amateur or professional ranks so when they become big, you can always say I remember him from his pro debut. Check out what 23-year old Roberto Benitez had to say and follow this spark as he develops into a shining star. >>>> much more with Roberto before his pro debut
Darchinyan Defends IBF Title
3/22 - This fight night feature the will World Title Unification bout between Australia's current IBF Flyweight Champion Vic 'The Raging Bull' DARCHINYAN and South Africa's IBO World Champion Mzukisi SIKALI.
Viewers Respond to "The Contender"
3/22 - The momentum is building on and off screen for NBC’s hard-hitting reality series, "The Contender", with the remaining 12 boxers trying to avoid elimination on screen, as viewers across the nation continue to tune in to the show Newsday and the New York Daily News has called “a knockout”.
One in a Million Square off at Langel's
3/22 - Langel’s Pizzeria in Highland, IN announced today it will host the official weigh-ins on Mar. 24 at 6:30 P.M. for “Date With Destiny,” the action-packed One In A Million INC. card scheduled for the next day.
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Hopkins to Battle Next Great Middleweight
ESPN.com Reports Hopkins-Taylor Deal Done
3/22 - Being reported by Dan Rafael at
ESPN.com, undisputed middleweight champion and pound for pound best
Bernard Hopkins is planning a July 16th return to the ring against one of boxing rising stars and the "heir apparent" to the middleweight throne,
Jermain Taylor.
After Taylor, Hopkins, 40, has aspirations of battling the winner of the light heavyweight title fight between Antonio Tarver and Glen Johnson and for a final fight, in early 2006 before his 41st birthday, taking on the May 14th winner between Winky Wright and Felix Trinidad.
Negotiations between the duo have come to a working agreement, with an official contract to be signed in the coming days as the sides work through a re-match clause. HBO pay-per-view will televise wth the location down to either Memphis, TN or Las Vegas, NV. The undefeated Taylor, 26, will be an in-studio guest this week on ESPN2's "Friday Night Fights" and welcomes a showdown with Hopkins. Taylor will earn a reported $1.8 million and Hopkins will make no less than $3 million. the full-story on ESPN.com • Discuss at the FORUM
Castillo-Corrales to Unify May 7th on Showtime
3/22 - WBC lightweight champion
Jose Luis Castillo will challange defending WBO champ
Diego Corrales in a title unification bout Saturday, May 7th on Showtime at 9 PM/ET. "Castillo and Corrales are without a doubt the two best lightweights in the world and both have earned their reputations by fighting the best in the division," said Jay Larkin, Senior VP for Showtime Sports. "This fight has ‘Fight of the Year’ promise and is the last step in deciding who really is number one in the world."
Castillo, who had hoped to get Corrales in December, said, "I am very excited that my wait is over and that I finally get a shot at Corrales. He is a very strong fighter, but he stands right in front of you.
Corrales gave Castillo a great deal of respect saying, "He is one of the best fighters in boxing and at the top of the game. But I am on a mission to prove that I am the best lightweight in the world." In the excellent co-feature IBF/WBA featherweight champion Juan Manuel Marquez will defend his titles against WBA #5 contender, Victor Polo. • Discuss at the FORUM
Guzman Defends WBO, Chavez Jr. in Action April 22nd
3/22 - Undefeated World Boxing Organization junior featherweight champion Joan Guzman of the Dominican Republic—acknowledged as the finest and most exciting 122-pound boxer in the sport today—defends his title in a 12-round bout against Fernando Beltran Jr. of Mexico on a nationally and internationally televised Sycuan Ringside Promotions card April 22 in Hidalgo, Texas.
>>> much more
Chagaev Faces Williams, 3/26
3/22 - The Second attraction on the Thomas Ulrich headlined show will be undefeated Russian heavyweight contender Ruslan Chagaev fighting Sherman Williams from the Bahamas.. >>> more
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Duva, Peter Offer Showdown with Sykes
3/22 - Duva Boxing President Dino Duva, promoter of undefeated heavyweight Samuel “The Nigerian Nightmare” Peter has responded to a
recent press statement sent out by representatives of NABA Heavyweight champion Taurus “The Bull” Sykes that questions the courage of his Nigerian slugger.
Among other inflammatory remarks, the release says on behalf of Sykes “I beat Jovo Pudar and then Peter ran to fight him and was scared to fight me because he knew I would have jabbed him all the way back to Africa, and before the fight was over, he would have been whispering in my ear “my name is Toby.’” >>> much more
TalkingBoxing with JASON GAVERN
"I need a manager...If I get the pieces together, it will happen fast"
by
Jason Peck
3/21 -
Jason Gavern had a steady job as a police officer with a wife an two kids. The family’s the same, but the job just got a whole lot different. After a remarkable amateur career, Gavern found himself ranked #3 in the super-heavyweight division with a contract with Gossen-Tutor as soon as he made his pro debut.
Gavern took him up on the offer, and amassed a 7-1 professional record before making his next commitment: boxing full-time. Gavern is now taking on two difficult tasks; moving the family to Pennsylvania and looking for a good manager to get his career on track. Even so, he managed to spare a moment with TalkingBoxing.com. >>>> Jason Gavern goes for win number eight on April 2nd and gives his take on his career, a need for a manager and the state of the heavyweights
Jorge Arce – From Big Brother To American Idol
by
Buster Paris
3/21 - I think it was in round six that I sat back and thought, “wow – I’m totally diggin’ this fight”. This caliber of bout was completely unexpected and was my introduction to Jorge Armondo Arce. All I could think was that I’m a fan.
I now “get” what Paula Abdul means when she says it on American Idol. I always though that “I’m a fan” was kind of a dumb expression or sentiment until I lived it.
I’m a total fan. >>> Arce had a big performance that got him noticed this past Saturday
Morales Conquers Pacquaio | Damn What a Fight!
by
Frank Gonzalez Jr.
3/20 - Living legend and Tijuana native, Erik "El Terrible" Morales upped his record to 48-2-0-34 KO's on Saturday night at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, where as the underdog, he faced dangerous rising Philippine Star, Manny "PacMan" Pacquaio (39-3-2-30 KO's) in a Super Featherweight match up of epic proportions. Morales was insulted by the odds. But the odds makers were wrong.
Manny Pacquaio has been on a mission. In November of 2003, he beat up on Marco Antonio Barrera so badly that Barrera's corner threw in the towel to make it a TKO 11 victory for Pacman. That shocked the boxing world.
>>>> round by round analysis, along with an awesome write-up
>>>>> In the co-feature at the MGM Grand, Jorge Arce, 39-3-1, secured the WBC #1 spot at flyweight with a 10th round technical knockout over a very tough and game Hussein Hussein, 27-2. Arce pounded Hussein in the first, but Hussein just didn't have any quit, throwing everything he had back over the next nine rounds. In the 10th, Arce caught Hussein with a bunch of shots in a corner and when he hit the canvas, trainer Jeff Fenech entered the ring to stop the fight, much to Hussein's dismay. Also on tap, WBA super flyweight champ Martin Castillo, 28-1, controlled and dominated former champ Eric Morel taking wide scores of 119-109 [all].
Duddy, McBride, Magee Score KO's; Lucas Takes UD
3/19 - Bell Centre, Montreal - Still in the mix at super-middleweight, former champ Eric Lucas, 38-6-3, dropped challenger James Crawford 5-times en route a lopsided 12-round unanimous decision by scores of 119-104, 119-103 and 116-105.
>>> Foxwoods Casino in Mashantucket, CT - In the co-feature on ESPN2's "Friday Night Fights", middleweight prospect "Irish" John Duddy improved to 9-0 with 9 KO's, destroying Leonard Pierre, 16-1, in the first round after dropping him twice with flush shots from every angle. Duddy did the most damage with his hooks and forced referee Frank Cappuccino to stop the bout after the 2nd knockdown at 1:23. In the main-event, heavyweight "The Clones Colossus" Kevin McBride, 32-4, stopped Kevin Montiy in the 5th round at 2:28. McBride is rumored to be Mike Tyson's comeback opponent in Washington, DC on June 11th.
>>> Kings Hall, Belfast - In what is one of the top story's of the year, welterweight Eamonn Magee, who was told just over a year ago that he would never walk again after a horrific attack, stopped Allan Vester in the 3rd round to retain his WBU title. •
Discuss at the FORUM
Day of Reckoning for Pac-Fans
by
Richard McManus
3/18 - Before I go on I would just like to say that I love the Pacquiao fans. I think they add a lot to our boxing debate and they bring enthusiasm and energy to the fight fan message boards where the hardcore public congregates daily the world over. They keep us all in check with their ardent defense of Manny, never allowing a critical word to be uttered without a ten-fold hyper-aggressive response. They move en masse, as a bloc to attack and pacify any critics.
I think Manny Pacquiao is a great fighter and he deserves a tremendous amount of credit for taking on Erik Morales in their PPV showdown Saturday night. He also deserves lots of credit for his devastating win over Marco Antonio Barrera in 2003 and for his tough 12 round draw against the skilled and tough Juan Manuel Marquez last year.
He has gone from virtual unknown, anonymous status outside of hardcore boxing circles and his rabid fan base in the Philippines to a young boxer on the cusp of super stardom in the span of about 4 fights. >>>> much, much more on tomorrow's PPV clash
TalkingBoxing with MALCOLM TANN
"This is definitely my year to make a name for myself"
by
Garth Weaver
3/18 - Heavyweight prospect
Malcolm "The Showstopper" Tann, 14-1, is looking to make a big statement on "ShoBox: The New Generation" on Friday, April 1st from Lenmoore, CA. The 26-year old Tann is slated to fight fellow prospect, undefeated Leroy Childs, 11-0, and looks to extend his 6-fight win-streak along with exposure on Showtime's exciting series.
The Chandler, Arizona native was kind enough to take some time out of his busy training schedule to talk with us about his upcoming fight and his place in the Heavyweight division. When I initially called him, he was stuck in traffic, however, he did call back a little later in the evening and we had a good little chat. >>>> much more with "The Show Stopper" before his April 1st co-feature on "ShoBox"
TalkingBoxing's Picks for Morales-Pacquiao
3/18 - This Saturday, March 19th, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas, NV, in a 12-round super featherweight rumble live by HBO Pay-Per-View, "Coming with Everything!", features two of boxing's most exciting superstars...Manny Pacquiao, 39-2-2 (30 KOs), and Erik "El Terrible" Morales, 47-2 (34 KOs), collide in a battle of three-time world champions.
TalkingBoxing's talented crew of writers gave their take on the winner of tomorrow's bout...
>>> TalkingBoxing's Picks | Manny Pacquiao training video
Ouma Won't Be Avoided, Wants "Contender" Champ, Hopkins
3/18 - Quiet has never been part of Kassim Ouma’s makeup, though the IBF world junior middleweight champion has been silent since his impressive dismantling of Kofi Jantuah on Jan. 29 in Atlantic City, NJ. Now, however, Ouma has emerged from his West Palm Beach, FL, base to claim the title of "best middleweight on the planet."
"I cannot be avoided,” he says. “I know most of these guys don’t want to bring up my name when they talk about who they want to fight. Boxing people know why. But you can’t say you’re the best unless you beat the best. I’m ready for any of them--Bernard Hopkins, Jermain Taylor, Winky Wright, Felix Trinidad. I’m ready to prove I am the best. >>> much more about the talent jr. middleweight and desire to take over 150 to 160
Jones Pounds to NABF, Top Tier of Boxing
3/18 - Chicago Cruiserweight Greg Jones battled his way to the NABF Cruiserweight Championship and a top ranking in the world's major sanctioning bodies after An unanimous decision win over a heavily favored Darien Humphrey here last Thursday night.
>>> much more | One in a Million, Inc.
Rivera to Face Collazo
3/18 - Luis Collazo has agreed to step into face WBA welterweight champion Jose Antonio Rivera on April 2nd at the DCU Center. Rivera’s scheduled opponent was forced to withdraw. >>> more
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HBO Agrees to Broadcast Fight Ruiz-Toney
3/18 - Promoter Don King announced today that HBO has agreed to broadcast the fight between World Boxing Association heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz (41-5-1, 28 KOs) and James “Lights Out” Toney (68-4-2, 43 KOs) on April 30.
The date had been originally held for World Boxing Council heavyweight
champion Vitali Klitschko to face former WBC and International Boxing Federation heavyweight champion Hasim “The Rock” Rahman. Klitschko suffered
a thigh injury while jogging that has postponed this match. Leading site contenders to host Ruiz vs. Toney are New York’s Madison Square Garden and the Office Depot Center in South Florida. >>> Toney Q&A with Coyote Duran • Discuss at the FORUM
TalkingBoxing with "CONTENDER" ISHE SMITH
"I would also like to thank all of my fans and I want to thank them for all of their support"
by
Julius Stecker
3/17 - If you have followed boxing's newest reality show [hopefully you have], one man has seemingly been showcased on the last three episodes of NBC's "The Contender". Fans have witnessed many strugles and heated exchanges from welterweight prospect turned middleweight contender
"Sugar Shay" Ishe Smith. Last Sunday in the season's third episode, Smith, 15-0, scored a unanimous 5-round decision over the boxer he targeted with verbal assaults, Ahmed Kaddour, who himself was hell-bent on making Smith's time on the show miserable.
The win moved him into the elite eight along with headlines among entertainment's biggest names. "Howard Stern was talking about me, as was Regis and Kelly," Smith told TalkingBoxing.com. >>>> much more with Smith, who has cracked The Contender's "elite-eight"
Lacy Wants Hopkins at Catch-Weight, Defend IBF Title!
3/17 - Boarding a jet on his way to Las Vegas to catch Saturday's pay-per-view extravaganza between Manny Pacquiao and Erik Morales, undefeated IBF super middleweight champion JEFF "LEFT HOOK" LACY stated the he would accept the same purse offered by undisputed middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins to Jermain Taylor - $1.5 million - if Taylor refused Hopkin's offer for a world title fight.
"I understand Bernard made the offer yesterday, with a 24-hour time limit to accept," said Lacy. "I just want Bernard and his promoters to know I am ready to move down to a catchweight and defend my title against him for the same purse if Taylor refuses. And I do not need a 24-hour time limit, I'll have a signed agreement back to him within 24 minutes, including fax time!" >>> more
Letters to C. Rice | The Recent Gatti Piece that Caused a Stir
by
Carl Rice
3/17 - So apparently I’ve touched some nerves talking about Gatti, Dorin, and Mayweather, especially since the fight is back on. Here are some of the letters I’ve gotten thus far; if there is anyone who wants to respond, please be my guest, but there’s only one rule…treat me with respect and I’ll do the same. But if you come at me aggressively, expect something back in return. I have not edited the letters.
>>> Carl Rice responds to e-mails about his recent article on Arturo Gatti
Green Beer and Boxing | St. Patrick’s Day Fights and Facts
by
Brian Skjold
3/17 - When I woke up this morning and realized it was St. Patrick’s Day, I got to thinking about some favorite St. Patrick’s Day traditions. I thought, well maybe I should dress my daughters in green today. But, then I realized in order to do that I would probably have to do some laundry… Next I thought, maybe I should head down to the local Irish Pub and partake in some green brew. While I was contemplating, “How do they make the beer green”, my mind began to drift, like it always does, to the sweet science. I began to think about boxing’s rich Irish history and I started wondering what kind of boxing history St. Patrick’s Day has. After browsing my collecting of boxing books and old Ring magazines, and doing a few Google searches, this is what I came up with. Hope you enjoy!
1897 Bob Fizsimmons KO 14 “Gentleman” Jim Corbett (World Heavyweight Title). 1908 Tommy Burns KO 1 Jem Roche (World Heavyweight Title). •
Discuss at the FORUM
Pemberton, Sheika III Not Signed
3/17 - At the moment, NABF 168-lb champ Scott Pemberton taking on former title challenger Omar Sheika for a third bout is in discussion and agreed upon, but not signed yet. Currently they are searching for a venue, and network for the fight.
Trinidad Video on BoxeoMundial
3/17 - Jose Martino at BoxeoMundial.net spoke with Felix Trinidad before his upcoming May fight with Winky Wright. Take a peek at the video with Trinidad and Martino.
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Calzaghe cancels defense, takes on Veit
3/17 - Welchman Joe Calzaghe will defend his WBO super middleweight title on May 7 in Germany against Universum promoted interim champion Mario Veit, 45-1 (23). For this reason Calzaghe, 38-0 (30), canceled his upcoming title defense that was scheduled for Friday, March 18, in Belfast.
By doing so he acted according to the rules of the World Boxing Organization. After Universum Box-Promotion won the purse bids for the Calzaghe-Veit contest the Welchman had no permission to make another voluntary defense that close to the scheduled May 7th mandatory defense against interim champ Veit. >>> more
Sykes Challenges Guinn and Peter
3/17 - Fresh of off his dominate performance over Friday Ahunanya in Hobbs, NM to pick up the NABA Heavyweight title Taurus “the Bull” Sykes is now ready for bigger and better challenges.
The NABA champion, who also has the heart of a champion, is concerned by the fact that a so-called heavyweight contender, by the name of Dominick Guinn, is acting more like a pretender as he has chose to fight the loser of the bout, Friday Ahunanya, on ESPN , instead of trying to fight the winner. >>> more
NBC’s "THE CONTENDER" Brings Back to Prime-Time
New Episode Airs Sunday, March 20th at 8PM/ET
3/17 - Close to 25 million viewers have responded, and they can't stop talking about NBC’s "The Contender", which has finally brought world-class professional boxing back to primetime network TV, complete with hard-hitting action inside the ring and heart rending human-interest stories outside of it. Returning on Sunday, March 20 at 8pm/ET, "The Contender" lands another 1-2 punch with an action-packed episode that raises the stakes for the 13 remaining boxers on the show. In this week’s episode, both teams are staggered by an unexpected twist that puts an entirely new face on the competition. As the second round draws near, the latest bout leaves the crowd breathless as two combatants fight to stay alive in their quest to earn the Contender title. •
Discuss at the FORUM
TalkingBoxing with "CONTENDER" JESSE BRINKLEY
"You can expect to see me knocking people out and winning a world title"
by
Julius Stecker
3/16 - NBC’s “The Contender” has been rated a success by numerous fight enthusiasts, clearly and easily outdistancing its predecessor FOX’s The Next Great Champ, in appeal and in quality. The difference that has made this show truly special has been its ensemble of talented fighters such as middleweight contender
Jesse Brinkley, 24-1 with 16KOs.
Brinkley was last seen this past Thursday beating seasoned veteran Jonathan Reid in a very entertaining scrap. Early on in the show Brinkley has won over numerous fight fans world wide with his toughness and guile. Brinkley is hoping this show will be a spring board to bigger and better things in his career. "I’m probably going to stay at Middleweight, but I can’t say for certain," Brinkley said. "I want to be where the action is and I want to win a title. So, I guess it kind of depends on where I get the shot." TalkingBoxing.com caught up with this exciting Contender to get his take on the show, his career, and much more. >>>> much more with Brinkley, who has cracked The Contender's "elite-eight"
Soto's Close to Titles
3/16 - Unrelated world-class fighters Humberto Soto and Omar Soto are both, barring injuries or upsets, on the verge of major world title shots in 2005. >>> more
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Ward Provides Insight on Rivera, Damgaard
3/16 - According to no less an authority on ring toughness than “Irish” Micky Ward himself, No. 1 contender Thomas Damgaard (34-0,l 26 KOs) more than lives up to his nickname, “Lionheart,” and he poses a serious threat April 2 in his first fight outside of his native Denmark.
“Damgaard’s tough, real tough,” Ward remembered. “He’s a good fighter who comes forward and throws combinations. He’s not a one-punch knockout guy, but his accumulated punches take a toll. Damgaard is very strong.” >>> more
Brewster-Golota Tix on Sale Saturday at 1 PM
3/16 - World Boxing Organization heavyweight champion “Relentless”
Lamon Brewster will put his title on the line against Andrew “Powerful Pole”
Golota at the United Center on May 21. The event is being promoted by
Don King Productions in association with the United Center.
>>> more
"ShoBox" April 1st | Guerrero Against Valdez, Tann Battles Childs
3/16 - In the main event on “ShoBox: The New Generation” on Friday, April 1, 2005, IBF #10/WBO #11 featherweight contender Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero makes his first defense of his NABF featherweight title against Adrian “El Gallero” Valdez in a scheduled 12-rounder. In the co-feature from The Palace Indian Gaming Center in Lemoore, Calif., Malcolm “The Show Stopper” Tann will trade leather with Leroy Childs in an eight-round heavyweight bout.
Look out for an excellent interview with Tann in the coming days! >>> more
Arnaoutis Gets New Trainers
3/16 - Cestus Management would like to announce that Mike Hall and Ray McCline will be taking over the training of junior welterweight sensation "Mighty" Mike Arnaoutis. >>> much more
Ulrich wants Michalczewski Revenge
3/16 - European champ Thomas Ulrich is eager and highly motivated to make his great breakthrough this year. Ulrich expressed desire to take revenge for the defeat of his stable mate Dariusz Michalczewski. >>> much more
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TalkingBoxing's British Update
Wright claims belt; Calzaghe in test of focus; Amir Khan
by
Dave Crellin
3/16 - A cracking little rumble last Friday saw Nigel Wright emerge as one to watch over the next few years as he dismantled fellow prospect Dean Hickman with comparative ease to claim the English light-welter strap. On paper this was a close match but once the bell rang the sharp boxing of former amateur star Wright was too much for the eager but essentially crude work of Hickman. Wright’s southpaw left was the punch of the night, repeatedly getting through and flooring Hickman in the second.
>>>> much more on the best UK update
Roach to Morales: "BEWARE THE 'ICE'"
3/15 - It seems like only yesterday when the Roman ruler Julius Caesar failed to heed the warning of an unidentified soothsayer. "Beware the Ides of March," Caesar was warned, on this very day in 44 B.C., on his way to the Senate (and his assassination.)
"Beware the Ice" of March 19 , "MANILA Ice" warned Freddie Roach to Erik "El Terrible" Morales today. >>> more
Morales Will Win, But Not by Too Much
by
Jason Peck
3/15 - A common notion in the boxing world is to regard a fighter with a recent loss as something less than he used to be four months after the loss in question. Thus, Marco Antonio Barrera was viewed as les of fighter than Erik Morales before their third confrontation, due in part to his loss to Manny Pacquiao. Going further, Barrera was seen as damaged goods after his loss to Junior Jones in 1997, and if you cast an eye a few weight classes higher you have Arturo Gatti, who never should have won another fight in his life after losing to Ivan Robinson.
With all due respect, this is a ridiculous notion to judge a fighter’s chances, and Morales’ in particular. Like it or not, you can’t help but admit that Morales and his archrival Barrera stand as two of the best fighters of the past quarter-century. They fought an astounding amount of times before their 30th birthdays, and both feature records littered with victories over some of the biggest names in their respective divisions. >>>> much more with Jason Peck, who feels Morales comes into this showdown stronger than before
Doubt this goes the Distance: Thoughts on Morales vs. Pacquaio
by
Frank Gonzalez
3/15 - After watching, “The Contender” on Sunday, I’m ready for some REAL
boxing. “The Contender” has some potential but it makes the same mistake Oscar
De La Hoya’s boxing program (that aired last year) made; they only show 15
second snippets of each round. The program focuses more on non-boxing
competitions and interactions instead of duke outs in the square circle.
I’m thinking about this Saturday’s showdown between Manny Pacquaio and Tijuana native, Erik Morales, complete with a scheduled 12 rounds of three uninterrupted minutes of pugilism per round. But I doubt this fight goes the distance. >>>> a sweet breakdown of Morales-Pacquiao
Talking Boxing with PROMOTER DAN GOOSSEN
"we will reach levels that Mike Tyson did and beyond providing James keeps on winning"
by
Coyote Duran
3/15 - I'm sure you've probably noticed from my pattern of interviews lately that I've been chatting it up quite a bit with fighters under the
Goossen-Tutor banner. Tough job, I'm sure you're thinking, huh?
After a bit 'o thought, I figured, "Why not talk to the man behind the men?" After all hasn't Dan Goossen made unique strides in dong what he does best: Promoting? Well,......yeah. Think about it: On August 9, 2004, Goossen-Tutor Promotions teamed with FoxSportsNet's Best Damn Sports Show Period! and made history with the returning James Toney battling then-undefeated Rydell Booker to a landslide unanimous decision, while raking in unprecedented numbers for the popular ensemble sports show. With a promotional deal cemented firmly in place, Goossen-Tutor and FoxSportsNet cranked out two more great prime-time shows for some really appreciative fight freaks. >>>> more with one of boxing's best promoters
Morales vs Pacquiao Will Be In Top Five of '05
by
Buster Paris
3/15 - My copy of Boxing Digest arrived on Valentines Day. I sat down on the couch and the cats came and sniffed as the always do paying special attention to the Valentines Day card my Nana sent. I’m checking out the table of contents, giving it a quick scan, turn the page and there it is on a 2 page spread:
Erik Morales and Manny Pacquiao.
I heard Cupid’s wings flapping away rather pleased with the work he had done years ago. I love boxing. How unbelievably cool is this fight going to be. Don’t miss this one folks; this is going to be one hell of a fight. >>>> much more from Buster Paris on the upcoming HBO PPV showdown
Superstar Pacquiao Might be First to Stop Granite-Chinned Morales
by
Garth Weaver
3/14 - Just around the corner on March 19th, 2005 is going to be a night that will not be forgotten in the annals of boxing. That is the date that Mexican Superstar, Erik “El Terrible” Morales (47-2, 34KO) squares off against the Filipino sensation Manny “The Destroyer” Pacquiao (38-2-2, 30 KO’s).
There is a serious buzz in the air about this fight and rightly so with this historic match-up. The duo have been champions in multiple weight divisions and many experts tout both men as being in the top ten pound for pound in the world. What makes this fight so intriguing is the fact that you have a devastating puncher in Pacquiao, fighting a very solid tactician in Morales. >>>> much more
TalkingBoxing with "CONTENDER" JIMMY LANGE
"to get the exposure of having 8 million people tuning in to watch you, it is great"
by
Julius Stecker
3/14 - ESPN and "Ballroom Boxing" are great avenues for today's boxer. Typically these telecasts help promote your prospect to champion and they do to an extent, but nothing will compare to national exposure on NBC's "The Contender" for a young, taleneted fighter like
Jimmy Lange. "This is bigger then anything I have ever done," Lange told
TalkingBoxing. "When are you going to get the exposure of having 8 million people tuning in to watch you, it is great. I went out today and 3 or 4 people came up to me and they recognized me. I love it."
The Great Falls, Virginia native has mostly fought below the show's middleweight limit, but didn't have any issues with the challenge. "I am really a Jr. Middleweight, or even a Welterweight, but we had some guys who were fighting from 140 and up. I think that Jesse Brinkley fought at light heavyweight before. So yes there were some big guys there...I knew all of this heading in." >>>> much more with contender Jimmy Lange
A Forgotten Welterweight Champ Gets His Chance April 2nd
by
Julius Stecker
3/14 - With all the hoopla surrounding the return of Oscar De la Hoya and Shane Mosley to the welterweight division, there has been a forgotten champion. And while Zab Judah basks in the glow of his crown, one fighter is getting overlooked, WBA welterweight champion
Jose Antonio Rivera. Rivera, 37-3, has been inactive, but hasn't been hiding. Rivera has remained in top condition and is getting the itch to get back and defend his title.
The 31-year old has been on the sideline much in part to an injury and title defenses falling through, but on April 2nd in his hometown of Worcester, MA, Rivera gets his chance. This opportunity to defend his crown against Danish welterweight and WBA #1 contender Thomas Damgaard, 34-0, could lead to much, much bigger fights with the divisons best. >>> much more
Witter Wants Cotto, June 11th on HBO
3/14 - WBC #2 ranked Junior Witter has asked WBO champ Miguel Cotto to give the fans a super fight by defending against him on June 11th. >>> much more
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Klitschko Injures Thigh, Delays Title Bout
3/14 - A recent workout in Kiev, Ukraine will be the downfall to the upcoming WBC title fight in on April 30th. Champion Vitali Klitschko, 35-2, was out for a daily run when he pulled his thigh, which will push back his defense against #1 contender Hasim Rahman, 40-5-1.
Klitschko's manager Shelly Finkel told the Balitmore Sun, "he went to the doctor and they said he shouldn't do anything for two or three weeks. The fight will happen. It will just be pushed back a little." A congested June calender in boxing could postpone this fight to a July date. This fight had some difficulty getting signed and was recently agreed to last Tuesday night, so hopefully these two will fight this summer with less contractual issues. • Discuss at the FORUM
Ruiz Ready to Step in for Klitschko; "I'll Fight Toney April 30th"
3/14 - World Boxing Association heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz wants to step up to fill the hole created by World Boxing Council heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko’s thigh injury that has postponed
his title defense opposing Hasim “The Rock” Rahman scheduled for April 30 at New York’s Madison Square Garden.
>>> much more
Cebu Fighter Ready to KO Pacquiao Conqueror
by Salvem Lagumbay
3/14 - Cebu fighter Pedro "Mayorga" Malco is all primed up to snatch the IBF Pan Pacific featherweight crown off the head of Bobby Pacquiao conqueror Fahprakorb Rakkiatgym. >>> much more
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Sparmates Favor Pacquiao this Saturday
3/14 - With the Erik Morales versus Manny Pacquiao pay-per-view telecast just a few short days away on March 19th, fans everywhere are getting anxious for this potential fight of the year. Who will win this exciting showdown on HBO PPV this Saturday night? Whom better to speak than sparring partners who know both of the combatants from inside the square circle. "I’ve sparred with Erik and now with Manny," said Maikito Martinez, who has been working with Manny. "Erik’s my friend and we’re both Mexicans, but I think Manny will knock him out. Erik has problems with southpaws. Early in his career, he should’ve lost to a southpaw but the judges gave him the decision." Another sparring partner for Pacquiao, Raymundo Beltran said, "Manny can knock out Morales in any round. Manny’s too good. He has great legs and power. Morales has slowed down and that was obvious in his last three fights."
>>> past article on Manny's sparring partners by Salvem Lagumbay
Hooters Joins One in a Million for 'Date with Destiny'
3/14 - Carlos Tite and Mike Landini, who twenty years ago battled each other before overflowing crowds, will join up-and-comers IN.B.A. Lightweight Champion Johnny Novak and Light Welterweight Jermaine White at the press conference for "DATE WITH DESTINY" at the Hooter's Restaurant in Merrillville on Tues., March. 15th, 2005.
>>> much more | ONE IN A MILLION
WBC Tournament in Works, But No Pemberton-Grant
3/14 - Contrary to rumors circulating in Montreal, no agreement has been reached to match WBC #1 contender Scott “The Sandman” Pemberton (29-3-1, 24 KOs) and #4 rated challenger Otis Grant (36-2-1), according to Pemberton’s promoter, Jimmy Burchfield, president of Classic Entertainment & Sports, Inc.
>>> much more
McCline, Brock Discuss PPV
3/13 - Heavyweights Calvin Brock and Jameel McCline took part in a conference call to publicise their clash at Caesars Palace on ESPN PPV [$29.95] on April 23rd. >>> much more
Importance of Small Hall Boxing
3/13 - Boxing throughout the years in the USA and Britain has always depended on the small hall fighters and promoters coming through. >>> much more
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Beyer Survives Late Push, Defeats Green
3/13 - From Zwickau, Germany, WBC super-middleweight champion Markus Beyer overcame a late knockout push by challenger Danny Green, to retain his title via a 12-round majority decision. Beyer, 35-2, was forced to take a standing 8-count in the 12-round and hung on to take scores of 114-113, 115-112 and 114-114. For Green, 19-2, he showed flashes of power in the 7th and 8th rounds, but was countered well after misses by Beyer. "I'm disappointed, I didn't do enough," Green said after the fight. Green had high expectations coming into this re-match after flooring Beyer several times in their October 2003 bout, in which he lost by disqualification. •
Discuss at the FORUM
April 2nd Unification Heats Up!
Braithwaite: "You are not going home with your belt"
3/13 - The two best in the cruiserweight division square off when undefeated WBC champion Wayne "Big Truck" Braithwaite faces his WBA counterpart, Jean-Marc Mormeck, in an eagerly anticipated world title unification bout Saturday, April 2nd, on SHOWTIME. "Welcome to America, but I have bad news for you (Mormeck)," Braithwaite, 21-0, said. "You are not going home with your belt. I have been training since last year because we were supposed to fight Oct. 2nd. I trained in the hurricanes. If hurricanes cannot move me, you cannot either. Mormeck, 30-2, added in at the March 10th press conference at DCU Center in Wocester, MA. "I am very happy to have this unification fight against Braithwaite. I am sure you will see me again in the next unification." •
Discuss at the FORUM
Morales Prepared for War, Digs in for Fight of His Life
3/12 - "I am aware of the importance of this fight and I know what Pacquaio will bring - speed and power," Erik 'El Terrible' Morales said yesterday at his jammed-packed Media Day in Mexico City. "I am prepared to dig in and fight the fight of my life." There were over 200 fight fans crammed into the Nuevo Jordan gym in Mexico City where Morales put on headgear and sparred six rounds before seven TV cameras and over two dozen fight writers. Morales dug in hard for two rounds against undefeated Steven Luevano, one of three sparring partners at the workout. "I'm ready to fight, go to war," Morales said. "I know the importance of this fight and I know what Pacquaio brings." Last night, Morales was ringside and discussed how he will fight Pacquiao on a Top Rank championship fight card televised live by Telefutura in Mexico City. Morales arrives at the MGM Grand on Tuesday for the scheduled March 19th showdown at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, live on HBO Pay Per View. •
Discuss at the FORUM
John Ruiz: Toney’s doomsday coming soon, Deal Done!
3/11 - Two-time WBA heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz has one question for his mandatory contender, James “Lights Out” Toney: “Are you up to the challenge of fighting the best heavyweight in the world?”
Ruiz’ manager/head trainer Norman “Stoney” Stone said Ruiz-Toney is a done deal and the only remaining questions are the title fight’s exact date and site. “Both parties have signed,” Stone said. “John’s the man in the heavyweight title and Toney’s just another temporary obstacle.” >>> much more | Q&A with Toney
Pacquiao still favoured, but Erik's sparmates worry experts
by
Salven L. Lagumbay
3/11 - While Las Vegas oddsmakers continue to put Ring Magazine featherweight king Manny Pacquiao a slight favourite, not a few insiders have already taken notice of the disparity of the quality of sparring partners being employed by both camps.
A day after Pacquiao welcomed a group of mediamen, mostly Mexicans, into his training lairs at the Wild Card Gym, Pacquiao continues to be a slight favourite over the Mexican icon, and is currently pegged at the MGM Grand as a 6-to-5 pick to beat him. >>> much more
Dirrell Brothers Win!
by Andres Carriedo
3/11 - Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, Maryland this past Thursday night provided the location for another impressive showing by the Dirrell brothers. >>> more
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Guerrero Battles Valdez April 1st
3/11 - The defending NABF Champion, Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero, of Gilroy, California boasts an impressive 14-0-1 record with 7 KO’s. Guerrero, known for lightening speed and Cobra-like reflexes, is hot off his impressive 4th round knockout of former NABF Champion, Cesar Figueroa. Guerrero is so talented that he is being touted as one of Boxing’s brightest young stars—evidenced by the savvy manner in which he destroyed former champion, Enrique Sanchez in the 8th round of his first televised ShoBox match—one that caused the frenzied crowd to burst into a loud repetitive chant of “Ghost…Ghost…Ghost!”
>>> much more with thoughts and comments from "The Ghost" and Valdez
Talking Boxing with COSME RIVERA
"Judah will be in for a war and he will learn that I’m not a pushover"
by
Julius Stecker
3/11 - Top rated IBF welterweight
Cosme Rivera, 28-7-2 with 20 KO’s, has taken the hard road to his upcoming spring title shot. Even though the Los Angeles, California native has seven losses, Rivera has never been stopped in his entire career and a few decisions could have gone the other way over the years.
Since 2001, he has compiled an undefeated record of 7-0, while beating respected contenders: Golden Johnson, James Hare, and Hercules Kyvelos, which was an IBF Welterweight Title Eliminator last September. Rivera is a strong no nonsense fighter who is looking to be this years version of Glen Johnson. "My chin is a tough one. I don’t intend to ever hit the canvas," Rivera told TalkingBoxing.com. "My heart is too big for that to happen." >>> much more with Cosme
Castillo, Lacy Reaffirm Postions | A Look into Gatti's Desire for Floyd
by
Carl Rice
3/10 - Several things became evident after this past weekend’s fights. First, my boxing predictions are not as good when I don’t prepare by watching fight tapes; true to boxing form there are no excuses, I picked Julio Diaz to win a Majority Decision over Jose Luis Castillo. But at least I called that Diaz would be knocked down once or twice. Secondly, Diaz has recovered from that first round KO a few years ago. He was in against an experienced fighter and he can only learn from a fight like this. And thirdly, and most importantly, Castillo has reaffirmed his place as one of the top lightweights in the world.
>>> wraping up last week's Showtime performances along with a look into the Gatti-Mayweather mess
Gatti, Mayweather Come to Terms for June 25th PPV
3/10 - After feverish discussions and intense negotiations WBC super lightweight champion Arturo Gatti and Floyd Mayweather, Jr. have agreed to fight on June 25, 2005, at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ, it was announced today by Main Events CEO Kathy Duva. There is a deal in place with HBO Pay-Per-View for the bout. Caesars Atlantic City and Bally’s Atlantic City will play host to the jr. welterweight championship showdown.
The breakthrough in negotiations came when all parties involved agreed to switch around dates to accommodate Arturo Gatti’s training schedule. >>> much more on this exciting match-up
TalkingBoxing's British Update
Woods is the goods; Haye blows Kelly away; Hickman–Wright looking tasty
by
Dave Crellin
3/10 - And at the fourth time of asking, Clinton Woods is a world champion. The likeable Sheffield man did a number on Rico Hoye on Friday to capture the vacant IBF light-heavyweight belt. Detroit hard man Hoye came out with intent but Woods boxed well and in the first round was mixing sharp counters with his own aggression to set the pattern for the match.
>>> much more
CRUISIN' FOR A BRUISIN': Showtime Boxing Readies for April 2nd
Braithwaite, "I am 'the man' ... if I have to go through everybody to prove it, I will"
3/10 - The two boxers widely recognized as the most talented in the exciting cruiserweight division will square off when undefeated WBC champion Wayne "Big Truck" Braithwaite faces his WBA counterpart, Jean-Marc Mormeck, in an eagerly anticipated world title unification bout Saturday, April 2, on SHOWTIME.
The division's most enthralling match-up in years will be shown on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the west coast). Don King Productions will present the event. >>> much more on the April 2nd showdown
Judah: 'I'll Fight Gatti on June 11th' | King Issues Challenge
3/9 - Newly crowned undisputed world welterweight champion Zab
“Super” Judah has learned that World Boxing Council super lightweight
champion Arturo “Thunder” Gatti was unable to reach an agreement to
fight "Pretty Boy” Floyd Mayweather on June 11 on HBO Pay-Per-View and is
calling out Gatti to fight at any weight.
>>> more on this public challenge
In This Corner Riddick Bowe and "Baby" Joe Mesi
by
Buster Paris
3/9 - What would you do if what you loved doing was killing you? What would you do if what you were really good at doing were possibly going to be taken away? How would you handle your first face-to-face meeting with the man who had a hand in it all ending? February 25th’s Friday Night Fights on ESPN2 had a little bit more than just fights. There were two peripheral items on the agenda and both were related in their issue as well as their importance.
The issue at hand is brain damage and possibly death – “Baby” Joe Mesi and Riddick “Big Daddy” Bowe made an important appearance on Friday Night Fights, but not inside of the ring. They are having a battle outside the ring. Not with each other, but with boxing officials and commissions. >>> a serious look at a difficult topic
Rahman Agrees to Terms for April 30th Klitschko Title Fight!
3/9 - Dan Rafeal, ESPN.com's new lead-boxing writer, is reporting that the on-again, off-again fight between
Ring Magazine and WBC heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko and WBC #1 ranked contender Hasim Rahman is back on. The bout, scheduled for April 30th at Madison Square Garden in New York City, was agreed upon on Tuesday night, which means Monte Barrett, who had agreed to step in for Rahman, will be sitting this one out. "Monte was in but Rahman has now agreed to the fight," King told ESPN.com. "I think he talked to HBO and found out I wasn't hiding any of the money." Klitschko, 35-2, looks to make a second title defense and is coming off a 8th-round knockout of contender Danny Williams in December. Rahman, 40-5-1, had a steady 2004 campaign, capping a 5-0 record with a 4th-round stoppage win over Kali Meehan in November. •
Discuss at the FORUM
Talking Boxing with STEVE FARHOOD
"What's so beautiful about boxing is the diversity of the fighters"
by
Coyote Duran
3/9 - I'm a firm believer that boxing isn't just great because of fighters. Oh sure, they're the attraction, mind you, but what fan
isn't affected in some way by the ubiquitous
analyst or
commentator?
Sometimes you love 'em. Sometimes you hate 'em. Sometimes, you turn the sound off so you can score a fight without being influenced even in the most minute of ways. Some of us have favorites while others make us scratch our heads and ask "What the hell?!" I actually have my own Jim Lampley Mistaken Reference and Facts Scorecard (Patent Pending).......I'm not kidding.
As a member of this esteemed community, Steve Farhood is a different breed of cat. Farhood, who along with solid sports vet/tan-meister Nick Charles, provides analysis for ShoBox: The New Generation with razor-keen honesty, a purist's eye and an appreciation for a sport he's been involved with in more ways than the casual fan might realize. >>>> one of boxing's best guru's goes one-on-one with Coyote Duran
TalkingBoxing with "MIGHTY" MIKE ANCHONDO
"I’ve always had tough obstacles; this is just another test he’s got for me"
by
Jason Peck
3/8 - The super-featherweight division is alive again, catapulted into the mainstream boxing media with the arrival of featherweight stars Erik Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera and Manny Pacquaio. And looking for a fight with every one of them is the new WBO super featherweight champion,
Mike Anchondo.
Anchondo, 25-0 with 18KOs, has a wicked sense of humor that turns serious when he discusses the sport of boxing. Boxing is something he takes seriously, and the results are evident. At the age of twenty-two, Anchondo holds an unbeaten record and a world title belt in one of boxing’s most competitive divisions. >>>> much more Mike Anchondo before his April 1st title defense
"Homecoming" Presser
3/8 - The first official press conference for “Homecoming,” was held today at the New Haven Athletic Center in New Haven, CT with Chad Dawson, Jason Estrada... >>> more
March 18th at New Alhambra
3/8 - Don’t call them Russians! That’s the word from Eastern Europeans Avtandil Khurtsidze and Ramaz Gazashvili, who will box in separate. >>> more
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"The Contender" Lands a Big First Punch
by
Julius Stecker
3/8 - In an era when we are bombarded by the onslaught of reality TV, the opening show of "The Contender" last night reigned supreme. This program was no
Temptation Island, or for that matter wasn’t even close to its boxing reality TV predecessor, 'The Next Great Champ'. Sylvester Stallone’s "The Contender"
actually put an emotional light on the sport, which allowed a mainstream audience, as well as the boxing public, to appreciate what they saw.
The story of 16 prize fighters, all vying for a chance at one million dollars is not the most novel of ideas, however it's not the starting point; it is the journey of these men that makes this show special. They all come from different backgrounds, looking for that one chance at glory and to create some opportunity for their families. And it was that reality that drew me in as a viewer. >>> much more
PAC-MANIA: Is Manny Pacquiao Boxing's Biggest Star?
by
Julius Stecker
3/7 - There is nothing like the rush of a Manny Pacquiao fight. Pacquiao, the
Ring Magaizine featherweight champion, has that buzz about him like Mike Tyson had back in the late 1980’s; all action and no disappointment. His scheduled March 19th super-fight against Erik Morales is a fight fans dream. Manny will bring his concussive power, and he won't be afraid to take a punch in order to administer one of his lethal blows against a top pound for pounder Morales. I liken him to a modern day Bruce Lee; he is quick, ripped, strong, and deadly. Every time the 28 year-old Pacquiao comes out, it is like an explosion.
>>> more on Manny along with thoughts on Estrada-Mosley and tonight's "The Contender" debut
Jose Castillo Rolls Over a Stiff Roadblock in Diaz
by
Andres Antonio Carriedo
3/7 - Up until six weeks ago WBC Lightweight champion Jose Luis Castillo and his WBO counterpart Diego Corrales were scheduled to fight in the March 5th main event of Showtime Championship Boxing. Business complications prevented that fight from happening, but the former IBF champion Julio Diaz signed on to replace Corrales in what amounted to a tune up bout for Castillo, who scored an impressive 10th round TKO of the less experienced Diaz on Saturday night.
>>> more
The Harder They Fall | A movie on boxing, Rayco Saunders
by
Dr. Joseph de Beauchamp
3/7 - Rayco Saunders started out innocence as the rest of us. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1974 to a seventeen-year-old single mother. He never knew his father. He learned violence by watching his mother stab his father many times, almost killing his supposed father. At age eleven, he watched his mother die of drug overdose. His eight-year-old brother and baby sister watched as the mother died from drug abuse.
>>> more
Universum wins Calzaghe vs. Veit
3/7 - Universum won the purse bids for the WBO super middleweight championship between Joe Calzaghe and interim champ Mario Veit. >>> more
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'TUA OF DUTY' TO KICK OFF
by
Salvem Lagumbay
3/7 - "THE TUA OF DUTY" is finally set for the 31st of March at Waitakere Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand. After two years David Tua will have his comeback fight when he meets Talamadge Griffis from America over 10 rounds. David has trained tremendously for this fight and at this point of time his weight is 119 kg and David wants to have his weight on fight night at 115kg. David has started his sparring and is looking extra sharp. Cedric Kushner is the co-promoter alongside 72 Promotions and the main event will be preceeded with 7 outstanding prelim fights involving top quality boxers. •
Discuss at the FORUM
Castillo, Lacy Retain Titles by Knockouts on Showtime
by
Evan Korn - Ringside at Mandalay Bay
3/6 - The largely pro-Julio Diaz crowd at Mandalay Bay last night on Showtime Championship Boxing wouldn't have too much to cheer about. In a workmanlike manner, Jose Luis Castillo, the WBC lightweight champion, broke down Julio Diaz en route to a tenth round technical knockout.
Castillo (52-6-1, 46 KOs) plodded forward throughout the fight, stalking Diaz. The first round was a feeling out process, with both fighters doing little to distinguish themselves.
The second round was Diaz's best of the bout as he outworked Castillo, punctuating the round with a phenomenal right hand. After that point, Diaz (30-3, 22KOs) would do little else to turn the tide around. >>>> huge ringside wrap-up on last night's title fights on Showtime :: more on the Lacy-Williams title fight
Lacy Beats Williams By TKO 7, Retains IBF Title
by
Frank Gonzalez Jr.
3/6 - Saturday night at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Jeff "Left Hook" Lacy (19-0-1-ND-15 KO's) defended his IBF Super Middleweight Title against Rubin "Hollywood" Williams (26-2-15 KO's), ranked 15th in the division.
>>> more on the Lacy-Williams title fight | Q&A Lacy | Q&A Williams
Estrada Prepares for Mosley's Best on April 23rd
3/6 - Mexican warrior David Estrada, 18-1 (9KO's) fresh off his ShoBox televised destruction of previously undefeated Chris Smith on January 21st, takes his heavy hands and cement jaw to Las Vegas, Nevada on Saturday, April 23rd as he takes on former three division world champion Sugar Shane Mosley, 39-4 (35KO's) in a special attraction ten round welterweight showdown on the action packed Main Events/ESPN Pay Per View professional boxing card live from the beautiful outdoor amphitheater at Caesars Palace. Estrada is currently ranked the #9 welterweight by Ring Magazine and #2 by the IBF.
>>> more
Sturm knocks out Bert Schenk
3/5 - German boxing star Felix Sturm knocked out his countryman and stable mate Bert Schenk in the main event of a Universum boxing show in Leverkusen, Germany. >>> much more
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Worcester Hosts Braithwaite-Mormeck, Rivera-Damgaard, April 2nd
3/5 - Two world title matches with international and local flair will be presented by Don King Productions at the DCU Center on April 2 when World Boxing Council champion Wayne “Big Truck” Braithwaite meets World Boxing Association champion Jean-Marc Mormeck in a cruiserweight world title unification match while local star and WBA welterweight champion Jose Antonio Rivera makes his first world title defense against undefeated No. 1 mandatory contender Thomas “Lionheart” Damgaard.
>>> more on this big time fight card headed to Worcester, Massachusetts
The Final Assessment of Cotto | Diaz-Castillo Upset Tonight?
by
Carl Rice
3/5 - Let me say this and be completely clear: Miguel Cotto will never, eeeeever, ever ever ever ever ever fight Floyd Mayweather Jr., OK?
I’m not saying that Cotto is not a good fighter with the potential to be great, but I am saying that he is obviously not ready for a top pound for pound caliber fighter like Mayweather. At the beginning of Cotto’s fight against Demarcus Corley in his native Puerto Rico, I was telling the other folks watching the fight with me that this would not be a Cotto blowout. I felt that Corley was a good fighter with good boxing skills and enough power to be potent, if not devastating. Furthermore, the fact that Cotto came in the ring 17 pounds over the limit would give Corley trouble (who came in at the Jr. Welterweight limit), it would also work against him because he’s going to have to drag that extra weight if the fight goes to the later rounds. >>> wraping up Cotto's performance and looking ahead to tonight's Showtime main-event
Gatti Done Wasting Time, Mayweather Bout Off
3/5 - Tired of waiting for Floyd Mayweather, Jr to agree to terms for a June 11th, 2005, showdown, Arturo Gatti has announced that he is no longer considering Mayweather, Jr. as an opponent. >>> much more
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Jaurez Stops Ramierz, Woods Claims IBF
3/5 - Temecula, CA - In the ESPN2 main-event, unbeaten featherweight contender Rocky Juarez, 23-0, dropped tough-as-nails Juan Carlos Ramirez, 34-8, three times in the first round to force a stoppage in a scheduled 10-round fight at the Pechanga Resort and Casino. Jaurez floored Ramierz with a beautiful straight right midway through the first, then scored another knockdown on a right and just before the end of the bell, dropped him again as referee Tony Crebs stopped the fight. In the co-feature, former WBO bantamweight champ Cruz Carvajal, 25-12-1, opened up a gash over the eye, making Jorge Lacierva, 26-6-5, and his corner stop the fight after 6-rounds. This bout was a IBF eliminator, which could now land Carvajal a bout with IBF champ Rafeal Marquez.
>>> Rotherham, England - Fourth time is a charm for newly crowned IBF light-heavyweight champ Clinton Woods. Woods, 37-3-1, beat Detroit-native Rico Hoye, 18-1, for the vacant title last night via a 5th round stoppage, after he landed numerous, unanswered shots forcing referee Ian John Lewis to stop the fight. •
Discuss at the FORUM
"Kid Diamond" Registers TKO of Gogoladze
Pavlik Pounds Beaupierre in Two
3/5 - In a fight filled with offensive fireworks, unbeaten Almazbek “Kid Diamond” Raiymkulov sent Koba “The Cobra” Gogoladze to the canvas three times en route to a sixth-round TKO, Friday on SHOWTIME. In the “ShoBox: The New Generation’’ co-feature, undefeated Kelly Pavlik scored an impressive second-round TKO over Dorian Beaupierre. The doubleheader, which took place at the Silver Star Hotel & Casino, was promoted by Top Rank Inc. and aired at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast). It was the 58th fight show in the popular “ShoBox” series and aired as part of SHOWTI
