NOVEMBER, 2004

UP CLOSE WITH ANTONIO TARVER
“I haven’t even scratched the surface of my potential and talent”

11/30 - It’s been a long time coming for Antonio Tarver - a journey through boxing’s backroads, through the tough fights in front of even tougher crowds. It all led to this - a fight with Glen Johnson on December 18 at Los Angeles STAPLES Center that will determine who is the premier 175-pounder in the world. But even though the world now knows the “Magic Man” as the first fighter to knock out Roy Jones Jr. (which he accomplished in May of 2004), Tarver is far from an overnight success.

“If they only knew the steps I had to take,” said Tarver from his training camp in Vero Beach, Florida. “It’s my time now, and I had to wait patiently for that opportunity"

Young Stars Juarez, Guinn Discuss ESPN Dec. 4th Bouts

11/30 - Bally’s Atlantic City, in association with Main Events, will present a sensational fight card highlighted by featherweights Rocky Juarez vs. Guty Espadas and heavyweights Dominick Guinn vs. Serguei Lyakhovich. The evening of live boxing, which will be televised nationally on ESPN2’s “Friday Night Fights: Main Events Special”, will take place in Bally's Atlantic City's Main Ballroom located on the sixth floor on Friday, December 3.

Talking Boxing with JERMAINE "TOO SWEET" WHITE
"I am still a baby in this division but I won't back down from anyone"
by Julius Stecker
11/30 - Jermaine "Too Sweet" White, 6-0 with 3KO, is one of the most exciting young prospects out of the Chicago area. The young lightweight fighting out of Merrillville, IN is looking to make a name for himself in 2005. "Too Sweet" is coming off a excellent win a few weeks back over Brian Paul as part of an action packed One in a Million promotions fight card.

TalkingBoxing.com caught up with the young prospect to get his views on his future and much more. »» much more with "Too Sweet"

“The Ghost” Guerrero Enters the TB.COM Chat Room
“In the Future Rocky Juarez and I could be the next Barrera-Morales"
by Julius Stecker
11/30 - Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero, 13-0, is a fighter, who is looking to show the boxing world he is something special. His last dominating performance over former world champion Enrique Sanchez, has led to greater expectations from the young 21 year-old fighter. Guerrero keeps things in perspective, and he is promising to deliver on expections within the next couple years. Talkingboxing.com caught up with the “The Ghost” to get his feelings on his future. Guerrero will also be in our chat room this Thursday, December 2nd at 9PM. Free Autographs for all! Also, Guerrero battles Cesar Figueroa for the NABF featherweight title on December 9th! »» much more and news on his upcoming title fight

Krasniqi, Hoffmann Fight for Title 11/30 - Two German heavyweights, European champ Luan Krasniqi and Timo Hoffmann, battle for a potential world title shot this Saturday, Dec. 4th... Gonzales, Diaz 12/10 11/29 - The finest Chicagoland pro boxers including David Diaz and Al Gonzales are featured on Friday, December 10th at the Aragon Ballroom... Taylor-Joppy Undercard Announced 11/29 - DiBella adds more excitement to the already stirring Jermain Taylor-William Joppy main event on HBO with this top-notch undercard on December 4th in Little Rock, AR...

Sharkie’s Machine - Barrera-Morales III

by Frank Gonzalez Jr.
11/29 - Saturday night at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Marco Antonio Barrera brought his 58-4-0-41 KO’s record into the ring to face him ultimate nemesis, Erik Morales (47-1-0-34 KO’s) for a third time. The sole loss on Erik’s record is compliments of Barrera, who came with four losses on his own record, one—compliments of Morales.

The fight was on HBO’s PPV and many fans, young, old or struggling financially couldn’t afford to pay $50 to see their favorite fighters go at it so I’ll do my best to give an accurate and unbiased account of what transpired in the main event. »» huge post-fight report

Lacy, Trainer Birmingham Arrive in Las Vegas
11/29 - He was the first member of the 2000 U.S. Olympic team to win a world title and now undefeated IBF super middleweight champion JEFF "LEFT HOOK" LACY will become the first member of that same Olympic team to defend a world title - all within an eight- week span! Lacy and his trainer, Dan Birmingham, arrived in Las Vegas this past Sunday as they begin their final week of preparation.

Champ Rivera eyes De La Hoya’s return

11/29 - WBA welterweight champion “El Gallo” Jose Antonio Rivera’s (37-3-1, 24 KOs) is optimistic about the news that the “Golden Boy” – Oscar De La Hoya – will soon return to the 147-pound welterweight division.

"Oscar’s, 37-4, been a great champion and class act for many years,” Rivera said from training camp. “I welcome him back to the welterweight division. He can only bring added credibility to an already strong division that also includes (Cory) Spinks, (Zab) Judah, (Antonio) Margarito, (Vernon) Forrest and so many other top fighters. When Oscar’s ready to challenge for a title belt at 147, I’d be more than willing to renew the Puerto Rican-Mexican rivalry that’s been so popular in boxing.”

Barrera Bests Morales in Rubber Match Classic
11/28 - Last night the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, NV, Marco Antonio Barrera and WBC super featherweight champ Erik Morales took center stage in their third encounter titled, 'Once and for All'. Both having a close decision win over one another, the third bout was much of the same with fireworks from both, but it was the dazzling Barrera who stole the show. Barrera, 59-4, jumped out to an early lead, busting Morales' nose with an accurate attack. In the second half of the fight, Morales, 47-2, came on, but the 2-1 underdog Barrera was able to put together a run, countering well. The championship rounds saw Morales trying to get even on the cards, but even after a solid 12th which saw him land huge shots on Barrera, it wasn't enough at the end with the scorecards reading 115-114, 115-113 and 114-114. Morales said after the bout, "I did what I had to do in training to have a good fight. It was a very close fight, one I thought I won." For Barrera, who couldn't get Morales to acknowledge him after the fight it was something unmatched in his historic career calling it, "the most rewarding fight of my career." post-fight report by Frank Gonzalez.

UNDERCARD: Title fights aplenty on the 'Once and for All' PPV under card as WBC super bantamweight champ Oscar Larios, 54-3-1, took a lopsided 12-round decision over Nedal Hussein by scores of 118-110, 119-109 and 120-108. IBF bantamweight champ Rafael Marquez, 33-3, stopped former world champ Mauricio Pastrana via an 8th round TKO. WBO minimum weight champion Ivan Calderon scored a lopsided decision over Carlos Fajardo. Middleweight prospect Kelly Pavlik, 23-0, took an 8-round decision over Ross Thompson. Lightweight prospect Almazbek Raiymkulov stopped Lamar Murphy in the 5th round and cruiserweight Gyorgy Hidzegy finished off Salah Zabian via 4th round knockout. • Discuss at the FORUM

» Pre-Fight Breakdown » Mosley Please Stand up » Q&A Tokunbo Olajide » Q&A with Winky Wright » Wright-Mosley Official Site

“Bragging Rights” Showcases Dawson-Daniels, Couch-Clampitt Dec. 10th
11/19 - Two world championship matches headline “Bragging Rights,” promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports, Inc. (CES), in association with Foxwoods Resort Casino and CN8, The Comcast Network Friday night, December 10 at Foxwoods in Mashantucket, Connecticut.

World Boxing Council Youth middleweight champion “Bad” Chad Dawson (15-0, 10 KOs) will be featured in his first main event Dec. 10 against former World Boxing Association champion Carl “The Squirrel” Daniels (49-4-1, 31 KOs) in a 10-round title match.

Omar Sheika Looking to Test Jeff Lacy
by Julius Stecker
11/26 - Omar Sheika, 26-7, has been giving fight fans excitement since he entered the ring back in 1997. Consistently, Sheika has been the most exciting fighter in the super middleweight division. Who could forget his two wars against Scott Pemberton, or who could fail to remember his crushing knockout of Stephane Ouellet? He was the staple of USA Network’s Tuesday Night Fights and also ESPN2’s Friday Night fights shows.

On December 4th, he will be taking on perhaps boxing’s best young fighter, when he steps in the ring against IBF super middleweight champion, Jeff “Left Hook” Lacy, 17-0, at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada to be carried live by Showtime Championship Boxing. TalkingBoxing.com caught up with Sheika to get his take on the upcoming potential fight of the year. »» much, much more

Narh Destroys Green to Win NABC Title

by BD Gerard
11/25 - Ray Narh crushed Jadschi Green with a first-round knockout to capture the NABC lightweight title Wednesday at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh. Narh, a Ghana native and a former Olympian, improves to 12-1 with 11 KOs. Green drops to 11-5. On the undercard, NABC cruiserweight champ Rayco ‘War’ Saunders put away Anthony Williams with an eighth-round KO in a non-title bout. Saunders improves to 12-3-1 and will defend his title in January in Pittsburgh. Also on the undercard, junior lightweight Mario Acusta earned his first professional win with a first-round KO of Broderick Harper. Another Ghana native, heavyweight Abraham O'Kine, scored a second-round KO of Corey Gregory. O'kine improves to 14-0. »» much, much more from ringside along with photos

Taylor, Joppy Prepared for 'Season Beating's' Dec. 4th
Taylor: "I’m going to keep my jab in his face" - Joppy: "It won’t go past 9"
by Jason Peck
11/24 - Opening Remarks from Jermain Taylor and William Joppy

William Joppy: Glad to be here. Big fight for myself and big fight for Jermain Taylor. It’s a crossroads in Jermain’s career to see if he can deal with big boys. I’m in a situation to see if I can get back to where I was before. I was going through a lot of personal problems, I said before I get back in I’m getting all that stuff outside of the ring out of my life. I took this year off because I had to get my mind right. I’m starting with Jermain Taylor in his hometown.

Jermain Taylor: Thanks a lot Looking forward to coming back to my hometown. If he plans on getting through me he picked the wrong fight. I’m in tip-top shape, ready to take care of business like I always do. much, much more with Jermain Taylor and Wiliam Joppy

Freitas Returns Dec. 11th 11/24 - Banner Promotions presents the return of former WBO lightweight champ Acelino Frietas on Saturday, December 11, 2004 in Sao Paulo, Brazil..... Sturm Gets Cherifi 11/24 - Felix Sturm returns to the place of biggest victory: The Estrel Convention Center in Berlin where he beat reigning 160 lb. champ Hector Velaczo and now faces former WBC champion Hassine Cherifi on December 4th...

TalkingBoxing's British Update
Skelton retains unspectacularly; Hunt–Meager enough to repeat; Moore–Jones rematch a cracker

by Dave Crellin
11/24 - Matt Skelton retained his British and Commonwealth titles with an eleventh-round stoppage over perennial tryer Keith Long at the York Hall on Friday. Long was outweighed by three stones and Skelton towered over the challenger, but the stocky Long succeeded in making this his type of fight – a tough, inside battle with all the work being done at close quarters. »» much, much more from Mr. Crellin

Conference Quotes from Lacy, Sheika, Peter and Williams
11/24 - Six fighters with a combined 185 professional boxing victories and 148 knockouts will fight for three title belts on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, Dec. 4th, at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on West Coast) from Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. In the main event, former WBA 130-lb champ Joel Casamayor (31-2) will attempt to win his second world title when he steps up in weight to challenge two-time WBC 135-lb champ Jose Luis Castillo (50-6-1).

Boxing Shows Sportsmanship In a Time Others Don’t
by Julius Stecker
11/23 - The month of November, 2004 is what the sport of boxing is all about and its not just the fact that we have an excellent fight card every weekend, which we do. The reasoning to me is simple, Sportsmanship. After the sad situation that unfolded this past Friday in Detroit, MI as part of the Indiana Pacer-Detroit Piston game fiasco, it's evident that boxing has a bit more class than we may think. »» much, much more

Tuesday Musings: Wright Does It Again
by Carl Rice
11/23 - On Saturday night, Winky Wright once again pushed “Sugar” Shane Mosley into the background and continued his ascent in the public consciousness with a razor thin majority decision victory. It was a better scrap than the last fight, as Shane was able to better cope with Winky’s style, and in fact, I felt that it could have went either way. Winky does have a good defense, but I’m not sure a person can win a fight by keeping his hands up and throwing mostly a jab. Conversely, I also don’t think that someone can win a fight by backing themselves up against the ropes and getting caught with punches, albeit infrequently. But if anything, this fight gave boxing fans a lot to ponder on. »» much, much more

Sanders makes comeback on Jan. 15th
11/23 - South African heavyweight contender Corrie Sanders will make a determined comeback to the boxing ring. “I want to become world champion again”, Sanders announced, who won the WBO crown in 2003 by knocking out Wladimir Klitschko, later vacated the title and lost a WBC world title shot against Vitali Klitschko.

Sanders believes that despite being 38 years old he is still one of the most dangerous heavyweights in the world.

Tyson Returns to Ireland, Britain for Comeback?
11/23 - Being reported by the Evening Standard's David Smith, is a return to Britain for former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson. Tyson, 50-5, fought at the MEN Arena in Manchester nearly five years ago when he stopped overmatched Julius Francis inside of two-rounds and looks to make another comeback overseas. Tyson's top trainer Freddie Roach has mentioned a European tour for his fighter, which would invlove a bout in Dublin, Ireland against Kevin McBride and another bout in England. Tyson is coming off a knockout loss and injury to his knee in a July bout with Danny Williams in Louisville, KY, but Roach wants to have Tyson make comeback bouts in Europe before a challenge for the world title. • Discuss at the FORUM

Square Ring, Goossen-Tutor Sign Andre Ward
GOLD MEDALLIST TO MAKE PRO DEBUT ON TARVER-JOHNSON UNDERCARD
11/22 - Andre Ward captured the hearts of the United States this Summer with the sole Gold medal-winning performance at the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Greece, making him the first US Olympic Gold medal winner since 1996. Now Ward is poised to make his mark on the pro game, and Goossen Tutor Promotions and Roy Jones Jr.'s Square Ring are pleased to announce the signing of this future superstar to a promotional contract. "I'm exhausted,” laughed Ward’s manager James Prince. “We looked at every opportunity out there and had a tough choice with the last two standing - Square Ring Inc. and Goossen Tutor Promotions.

Wright Sweeps Best of Two Series from Mosley
11/21 - Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas - Current WBA/WBC jr. middleweight world champ Winky Wright, 48-3, ran into a tougher challenge the second time around versus a in-shape and prepared Shane Mosley, 39-4, but the result was no different. Wright battled the much improved Mosley, outboxing him over the first half of the fight and did just enough in the second half to have an edge on the cards. Credit trainer Joe Goossen for his hard work and game plan as Mosley seemed to control the championship rounds along with a couple individual rounds, but didn't do enough to wrestle the title away. The final score cards read 114-114 and 115-113 (twice). After the fight with Larry Merchant, Wright made no bones about it that he wanted the talented trio of Oscar De la Hoya, Bernard Hopkins and Felix Trinidad. Mosley told Merchant he has no plans of dropping in weight to regain a glimpse of the past.

UNDERCARD: Jr. middleweight prospect Ian Gardner, 18-1, scored a 12-round majority decision over Tokunbo Olajide, 20-2, by scores of 117-112, 115-113 and 114-114. Over the course of the fight, Garnder's style was too difficult for Olajide to figure out. Jr. welterweight Jose Celaya improved to 24-2 with a 3rd round knockout of Alphonso Williams. Carlos De Leon, Jr. remained unbeaten with a 6-round majority decision by scores of 58-56, 59-55, 57-57 over opponent James McCallister. Finally, Daniel Cervantes upped his record to 3-0, winning a 4-round decision by scores of 40-36 and 39-37 (twice). • Discuss at the FORUM

TalkingBoxing.com TALE OF THE TAPE: Wright v Mosley II
by Carl Rice
11/20 - Saturday, November 20 is a huge day. Two titans will clash to see who the best is on this day. No, I’m not talking about the legendary 101st meeting between THE Ohio State University and its arch rival Michigan, I’m taking about the two titans that stand atop the Jr. Middleweight division. Ronald “Winky” Wright will be looking to hold on to and defend what has taken him years to garner, and that’s the respect of the boxing world and Undisputed Championship. “Sugar” Shane Mosley, on the other hand, is not only looking to get back the championship he lost in his last fight, but also some redemption.

The Sugarman’s roller coaster career has taken him to the peak of K2 mountain and the depths of the Mariana’s trench, and many are saying that if he doesn’t win this fight, he should go the way of the American Buffalo and just disappear. »» HUGE pre-fight breakdown | Q&A with Winky Wright

HOPKINS JOINS GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS
Two of boxing's biggest stars to duplicate United Artists' approach inrevolutionizing the sport
11/20 - The year was 1919, almost 85 years ago, when four legendary actors decided that it was time to set a new direction for the entertainment industry. Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks and D.W. Griffith - the biggest names in the industry at that time - formed United Artists, a move that revolutionized the movie business forever.

Today, Oscar De La Hoya and Bernard Hopkins are pleased to announce their own bold move to revolutionize the boxing industry, as the two future Hall of Famers are joining forces to resurrect the sport of boxing and give fighters a platform from which they can fulfill their dreams of becoming world champions.

Thanksgiving Eve Rumble 11/20 - It's become as much as a tradition as turkey and football, and on November 24th from the Ramada Plaza in Rosemont, IL, Hitz Boxing presents...

'Fast Fres' to Return in January
11/20 - After watching from ringside last Saturday night in New York City's Madison Square Garden at the Don King Productions' Battle for Supremacy, "Fast" Fres Oquendo declared himself more than ready to get back in the mix towards a heavyweight world title shot.

"Next week I'm meeting with Don King down in Florida and I'll find out when and where my next fight is. It sounds like it will be in January but I'm not sure who its going to be against. For me, I'd like to fight either Byrd or Ruiz again, they both have major belts and I feel I could beat them."

Rowland Scores UD 11/20 - Troy Rowland got off the canvas to take a unanimous 10-round decision over Epifanio Mendoza Friday night on “ShoBox.... »» much more

Will Sugar Shane Fight the Wright Fight?
Mosley is in a must-win fight tonight on HBO
by Jason Herron
11/20 - Sugar Shane Mosley is a desperate man. He is 1-3 with 1 no-contest in his last five fights. Even his one victory was a gift decision against Oscar De La Hoya. Mosley knows this Saturday night is a must-win fight, if he is to continue as a big-time prize fighter.

Standing in his way is the man who took his Ring Magazine junior middleweight championship eight months ago, Winky Wright. »» much more

Skelton, Jakubowski Victorious!
11/20 - Commonwealth and English heavyweight champ Matt Skelton remained unbeaten with a knockout win over Keith Long last night from Bethnal Green's York Hall in England. Skelton, 14-0, dropped Long, 8-4-1, with an uppercut in the 11th frame and put him away for good seconds later. Welterweight Marty Jakubowski won by a fourth round TKO over Kevin Payne Friday night at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza in Merrillville, IN. Jakubowski scored his 113th win in an action packed affair. • Discuss at the FORUM

Talking Boxing with "THE KILLER" KERMIT CINTRON
"If Kostya Tszyu comes up and he wants to fight at '47, I'll fight him"
by Coyote Duran
11/19 - When one thinks of boxing's welterweight division, names like Robinson, Leonard, Cuevas, Hearns and Benitez, among many, come to mind. Now at a time when the division seems a little darker, a bright light appears at the end of the tunnel. This bright light, much like a freight train, packs a punch just as powerful. His name is Kermit Cintron.

The Puerto Rican born native, now hailing from Reading, Pennsylvania, has only been fighting professionally since 2000, but you'd never know it from talking to him. A thoughtful, polite young man with a cool demeanor, Cintron speaks lucidly and intelligently, always confident in his tone. What's more astounding is how composed Cintron is despite the hardships he's faced in his (just turned) 25 year old life. Part II is up which completes the net's BEST interview with Kermit Cintron! »» the COMPLETE INTERVIEW with both parts!

Salita Overcomes Slow Start, Decisions Delgado
by Robert Louis - Ringside
11/19 - Undefeated Jewish jr. welterweight sensation, Dmitriy “Star of David” Salita was the main attraction last night in the 7th installment of DiBella Entertainment's “Broadway Boxing”, at the Manhatttan Center on Thursday night.

Salita of Brooklyn, New York, 20-0 with 11KO, overcame a slow start and fell behind early as his tough as nails opponent Paul Delgado of Capo Verde, GA, 12-5-1 with 2KO, used a mix of hooks and rights to take an early lead on the TalkingBoxing.com scorecard. »» much more

Can Shane Mosley Make it Wright and Beat Winky?
by Julius Stecker
11/19 - I can remember a time, when I saw a brilliant lightweight fighter that captivated my attention. He was fleet of foot, and he had power that was beyond belief. I can recall a time back in 1998, when I ignored going out with college friends to watch him fight a rugged Demetrio Ceballos. What a performance it was, and I was glad that I did neglected a night on the town that evening. »» much more

Ruiz wants to silence his critics and unify!
11/19 - After overcoming a bad call regarding a knockdown in the second round and being penalized a point in the fourth round (the first point reduction of his pro career and after being repeatedly and blatantly fouled by his opponent with no deductions by the referee), last Saturday night WBA heavyweight champ John “The Quietman” Ruiz overcame a four-point deficit to win a unanimous decision against Andrew Golota.

Chad Van Sickle is Explosive in Training
"I want to fight guys like Felix Cora, and Dale Brown"
by Julius Stecker
11/19 - If you haven’t checked out cruiserweight contender Chad Van Sickle’s training regimen, I would advise you go to halquistproductions.com where they have a brief movie featuring his workout. It looks more like the training regimen of Jerry Rice, then a successful professional prizefighter. While many boxers go with the traditional or “old school” method of just plain old roadwork and sparring. Van Sickle uses plyometrics, wind sprints, and advanced training techniques to get the job done. »» much more

Cruz-Rios on CMX 11/18 - WBC FECARBOX welter champ Jose Luis Cruz rumbles with Sergio Rios in the 10-round welterweight main event battle of unbeatens...

Title Night in Texas on "Boxeo De Oro"
11/18 - Even though they check in at just 118 pounds each, bantamweights Jhonny Gonzalez and Gabriel Elizondo pack heavyweight excitement into each of their bouts. On Thursday, November 18, in the main event of HBO Latino’s hit series "Oscar De La Hoya Presents Boxeo De Oro", Gonzalez and Elizondo will meet for the NABO Bantamweight crown at the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas.

In the 12 round co-feature, Cesar Morales will battle former US Olympian Clarence Vinson for the WBO International Bantamweight Championship.

Munoz Battles Castillo for WBA Title, Dec. 3rd
11/18 - Martin 'El Gallo' Castillo, the WBA interim champion, will take on WBA world champ Alexander 'Explosivo' Munoz in a super flyweight title fight at the Entertainment Center in Laredo, Texas on Friday, Dec. 3rd, live on Telefutura. Castillo, 27-1, won the WBA interim title on May 16th knocking out Hideyasu Ishihara in the 11th round. Munoz, 25-0, was scheduled to fight Ishihara, but pulled out do to injury allowing Castillo to fight for the title. Tickets for the event are priced at $50, $30 and $20 and will go on sale tomorrow at the Laredo Entertainment Center and all TicketMaster Outlets. • Discuss at the FORUM

Hernandez, Navarro Opponents Announced for Dec. PPV
The Pair along with Miguel Cotto and Roberto Duran Jr. Round out a Solid Undercard
11/17 - In his first bout since his memorable battle with WBC/IBF Champion Erik Morales, former IBF junior lightweight champion Carlos “Famoso" Hernandez will return to the ring to face former NABF champ Juan Carlos “Ranchero" Ramirez on the Vitali Klitschko-Danny Williams undercard Saturday, Dec. 11, from The Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, live on HBO Pay-Per-View.

Witter mystified by Mayweather 11/17 - Junior Witter has responded with indignation to suggestions on boxingtalk.net that Floyd Mayweather Jr. will face.... Juarez, Guinn on Dec. 3rd 11/17 - Stars Dominick Guinn and Rocky Juarez will appear in co-feature bouts on ESPN2's Friday Night Fights on Friday, Dec. 3rd...

Olajide Stepping Up and Ready for Gardner
by Julius Stecker
11/17 - USBA Jr. Middleweight champion and Canadian, Tokunbo Olajide has a tremendous amount of talent. Evidence of that, are his 20-1 record, and his 17 knockouts. Olajide brings an exciting style and a willingness to put himself on the line at all costs.

This Saturday November 20th at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino, Olajide will be taking on slick southpaw Ian Gardner (17-1) in a highly anticipated off TV match-up between two young and rising contenders. »» more

ONE AND A MILLION Nears Fight Night
November 19th is the Big Night of Action

11/17 - Octavius James/ONE IN A MILLION INC. organizers for the Pre-Thanksgiving Showdown continue to finalize the much anticipated card, to be held Nov. 19, 2004, at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza. Doors will open at 7 p.m., with the action beginning at 8 p.m.

TalkingBoxing's British Update
Barnes in career-best win; Witter retains with ease; Skelton–Long, Bennett–Phillips previews

by Dave Crellin
11/17 - David Barnes, the prospect from Manchester many thought was lucky to scrape the title from rugged journeyman Jimmy Vincent, produced a performance to put himself on the map with a sixth round stoppage win over James Hare. Barnes was making his third defence of the British welterweight title and gets to keep the Lonsdale belt with this win in Halifax. »» much more on the best UK Update!

TalkingBoxing's Quick Tidbits
Arnaoutis Back in December; Stone Issues Apology; 'White Tyson' Gets KO
11/17 - "Mighty" Mike Arnaoutis is back in the gym and in the midst of his second week of hard sparring in preparation for his return to the ShoBox: The New Generation series, scheduled to be broadcast live on the ShowTime network on December 17, 2004... Norman “Stoney” Stone, manager and head trainer for WBA heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz, has issued a public apology for his behavior last Saturday night during the Ruiz-Andrew Golota fight at Madison Square Garden... Uzbekian heavyweight contender Ruslan Chagaev once again lived up to his nickname “White Tyson” when he punished his Croatian opponent Asmir Vojnovic over four rounds until his cornermen threw in the towel...

Tarver, Johnson Breakdown Wright-Mosley II
11/17 - On Saturday, December 18th, live from the Staples Center in Los Angeles, Antonio Tarver will face Glen Johnson in a 12 round championship bout that will determine, once and for all, who is the best 175-pound fighter in the world. Both Tarver and Johnson took time out of their busy training schedules this week to break down another highly anticipated bout, this Saturday’s jr. middleweight championship rematch between Winky Wright and Shane Mosley. Here’s what the two best light heavyweights in the world had to say about Wright-Mosley II...

Talking Boxing with JOSE CELAYA
Celaya on Williams bout: "They are going to be surprised by what I will bring"
by Julius Stecker
11/16 - Rising jr. middleweight star Jose Celaya, 23-2, takes on Alphonso Williams on the upcoming undercard of the Winky Wright-Shane Mosley re-match this Saturday on the off-tv portion. The 23-year old Celaya doesn't know much about his opponent other than he is tough, but had had a great camp sparring with some top talent, nonetheless. "This has been my best training camp. I have been training hard. I have been sparring with Shane Mosley, and with Robert Guerrero. I am doing it like it is supposed to be done," said Celaya. Jose also enjoys the assistance of one of boxing's top trainers in Emanuel Steward saying, "I feel with Manny helping me out, I can accomplish my goal of becoming a world champion." Read on for more with Jose Celaya! »» more

Will the Real Shane Mosley Please Stand Up

by Phillip Diaz
11/16 - Actually will the real Shane Mosley please show up in his rematch bout on November 20th on HBO versus the reining WBA jr. middleweight champion Winky Wright? That’s the question on the minds of Mosley’s fans and on the minds of boxing fans in general. Once upon a time Mosley was on top of the boxing world. 'Sugar' was just coming off a spectacular victory over the Golden Boy Oscar De la Hoya in 2000. De la Hoya was still golden at the time having only one loss, albeit controversially at the hands of the than undefeated Felix Trinidad. There was no controversy about Mosley’s victory over Delahoya; he won what should have been a unanimous decision. Although Shane had to settle for a split decision, there was little doubt who the better man was that night in Los Angeles. »» Mr. Diaz breaks down 'Sugar' Shane

Marty Jakubowski: One Tough Veteran
by Julius Stecker
11/16 - Marty Jakubowski, 112-7, is the definition of a journeyman having been around the block and then some. He is a guy who is willing to lace up the gloves, anytime and anyplace. He won over a 100 fights, he has fought the likes of Julio Cesar Chavez and he became one of the most popular fighters on the Midwest fighting circuit in the process. »» more

Toney Back in February 11/16 - The heavyweight division thought they were getting a longer reprieve from the onrushing train known as James Toney, but with the cast now off his torn left bicep and after receiving the green light from his doctor...

Williamson Battles Former Champ, Takes Decision

11/16 - Heavyweight contender DaVarryl Williamson opened this past Saturday's Don King event titled, "Battle For Supremacy", at Madison Square Garden. Williamson, 21-3, who was coming off a tough luck loss to Wladimir Klitschko, put on a boxing clinic in route to a unanimous decision over former WBC World Champion, Oliver McCall, 41-8.

WBO #2 Diaz headlines Dec. 10th, 'Speedy' Gonzalez on Undercard

11/16 - Dominic Pesoli and 8 Count Productions along with Miller Lite is proud to announce details of the "The Best in Chicago Boxing (El Mejor Boxeo en Chicago)", a year end spectacular on Friday, December 10th at the world famous Aragon Ballroom as they continue to bring Chicagoland the highest quality boxing events showcasing Chicago's best and fastest rising prospects. Tickets, starting at $25 are on sale now by calling 312-226-5800.

Tszyu-Hatton at Crossroads; Hopkins-Eastman a Go?
11/15 - With an quick knockout of Sharmba Mitchell, Kostya Tszyu has unlimited options for future fights and doesn't seem too interested in a fight with his IBF mandatory, Ricky Hatton. Tszyu told a Australian paper, "Everything is in my court now. I will play my ball anywhere I want." Tszyu, a Showtime fighter, would like a fight with HBO-promoted Arturro Gatti, but Hatton's promoter Frank Warren is confident a deal will be worked out. Warren told the BBC, "The fight has to happen in spring and I think it will happen. I believe the fight will be made, provided Ricky gets through his fight next month." »» Who said Bernard Hopkins' 20th middleweight defense was going to be easy? The undisputed champion will take on the division's top guy and WBC #1 contender Howard Eastman with the WBC/WBA/IBF/WBO titles on the line. Hopkins told The Sun, "Eastman will be a tough fight, although a lot of people are saying it will be an easy option." Hopkins continued the praise saying, "what I have seen confirms that Eastman is a true world-class middleweight." The Hopkins-Eastman bout is proposed for February 19th, 2005. • Discuss at the FORUM

Just Weeks Away, Taylor Ready for Joppy

11/15 - With less than three weeks to go until fight night, Jermain "Bad Intentions" Taylor is entering the home stretch in his preparations for his Saturday, December 4, 2004 bout with former three time World Middleweight Champion William Joppy at Barton Coliseum in Little Rock, AR.

Sharkie’s Machine - Robbery At Madison Square Garden

by Frank Gonzalez Jr.
11/14 - Saturday night in NYC, Andrew Golota returned to the place that made him famous—Madison Square Garden, where eight years ago, he fought former Heavyweight Champion, Riddick Bowe in a fight that made him famous. He lost to Bowe in a fight he was winning because of repeated low blows. This time, eight years later, the opponent was WBA Champion, John Ruiz. It’s said that, ‘styles make fights’ and the combination of Ruiz and Golota promised to be a wild event. Full RINGSIDE report to follow! »» much more on Ruiz-Golota | HUGE PHOTO GALLERY

Kessler wins WBA 168-lb title, Martinez Wins Hispano Title
11/14 - Top rated WBA challanger Mikkel Kessler out-worked and stopped WBA super-middleweight champion Manny Siaca en-route to his first world title. Kessler, 35-0, fought in front of his hometown crowd in Copenhagen, Denmark giving them what they came to see, a dominating performance and an impressive 5th straight knockout. Kessler forced Siaca, 18-5, to retire after round seven giving the new world champion a win by 8th round TKO. From Santa Ana Star Casino in Bernalillo, NM, David Martinez Jr. improved to 13-0 with a 10-round majority decision over a game Ruben Contreras, 9-15-2, also scooping up the vacant WBC Mundo Hispano bantamweight title. Scores were 95-95, 97-96 and 96-94. • Discuss at the FORUM

Green Bay Fight Fans Come out and Support “Big Time” Boxing
by Julius Stecker - Ringside
11/12 - Local Green Bay Resident and Fight fan, Joe Schultz said it best, “I like to see fights like this come to Green Bay.” Overall it is safe to say that bringing “Big Time” Boxing back to Green Bay was a rousing success. While the much anticipated Main Event between Vaughn Bean and Yanqui Diaz turned out to be a, “you hold me then I will hold you” type of fight, with Diaz winning a split decision. The overall card still overcame its lackluster main event. The talk of the night was young 21 year old and Green Bay native, “King” Carlos Molina (4-1), and the “King” laid claim to his thrown. »» post-fight report

TalkingBoxing's Quick Tidbits
Salita-Delgado; 'White' Tyson Steps up; Binkowski-Hatcher; CMX TONIGHT!
11/12 - Dmitriy Salita takes on Paul Delgado on Thursday night, November 18, at the Grand Ballroom at Manhattan Center. Chagaev, 13-0 (11), and German cruiserweight Alexander Petkovic, 29-2-3 (15), headline a fightcard next Tuesday, Nov. 16, in Cuxhaven, Germany Tonight from EL Foro in Tijuana, Mexico, Luis Arceo, 17-1-2, battles crosstown rival Alejandro Pena, 12-5, on "CMX Boxeo de Campeones" »» Illinois State Heavy weight Champion Art Binkowski, fresh off a solid 6 round performance earlier this month, will be fighting on Wednesday, Nov. 24th

» HUGE PHOTO GALLERY » Q&A with Norman Stone » Q&A with Jameel McCline

Tale of the Tape: “Battle for Supremacy”

by Carl Rice
11/12 - Before I go into this Saturday’s Pay-Per-View, let me say that I didn’t do a “Tale of the Tape” for the Kostya Tszyu v Sharmba Mitchell fight because I was in Ohio for the Election and after the results...let’s just say I lost a little respect for my home state. But I digress...my feelings about the fight was that I felt that Mitchell would box with Tszyu, using the ring and his speed to outmaneuver the champion. Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought that Tszyu would have knocked Mitchell out, let alone in the 3rd round. But Tszyu have once again proven that any road to a championship goes through “The Thunder from Down Under. »» pre-fight analysis from Mr. Carl Rice

Heavyweight Limit: Tomorrow Night's Fighters Weigh-In

11/12 - It was a wild scene Thursday in the lobby of the Theater at Madison Square Garden with nearly a ton (over a ton with promoter Don King!) of heavyweights weighing-in for the New York State Athletic Commission in anticipation of four epic heavyweight clashes - two featuring current world heavyweight titleholders and the two other bouts featuring former world heavyweight champions - at Madison Square Garden and on HBO Pay-Per-View on Saturday (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT).

Talking Boxing with DAVID MARTINEZ JR.
"I train like no other...I just want to see how far this dedication can take me"
by Luke Callahan
11/11 - You will have a hard time locking top super flyweight to featherweight propsect David Martinez Jr. into a single division in which to fight, but the Stockton, CA native has a plan. The plan includes keeping his feet grounded in his strong faith, training hard in the gym and to improve in every fight. "I plan on being a threat in more then one division once I win my world title. I hope I don’t sound cocky, I just have a blue print and I am just sticking to it," said Martinez. What more is there to ask in a young fighter with a 12-0 record fighting for a second title in as many weight classes on November 13th? You're stumped too right? Martinez also feeds of the energy his fans bring on fight night and loves them fans dearly. "Plenty of titles to win, but I would rather win the heart of the fans. God Bless them," said Martinez. Read on for much more as Martinez discusses his upcoming WBC Mundo Hispanio bantamweight title fight on November 13th and his future on TalkingBoxing.com. »» much, much more

The Battle of Felix: Could Trinidad land a Sturm Bout?

11/11 - Being reported by Primera Hora and Ray Garriga, former 3-division world champion Felix Trinidad could fight former WBO middleweight champ Felix Strum on March 12th of next year in his second bout on the comeback trail. Yesterday, a source close to promoter Don King spoke anonymously saying that Sturm would be the next foe for Trinidad, but couldn't offer anymore details at the moment until King officially annouces the match.

The 25-year old Sturm fighting out of Hamburg, Germany, battled Oscar De la Hoya to a disputed decision in June and took a 12-round unanimous decision over Robert Frazier in September. Trinidad made his return to the ring after a two year hiatus, stopping Ricardo Mayorga in October at Madison Square Garden. Both Trinidad and WBO 140-lb champ Miguel Cotto will be in New York this weekend for the 'Battle of Supremecy' card at Madison Square Garden. • Discuss at the FORUM

Boxing Back in Green Bay in a Big Way
by Julius Stecker
11/11 - Green Bay, Wisconsin is the home of some of most loyal and dynamic sports fans in the United States. The Green Bay Packers captivate the attention of the city, 24 hours a day, and 365 days a year. Heck, there is a waiting list of over 30 years for season tickets to Packer games on Sunday's. But the Minnesota Vikings coming to town won’t be the only thing on sports fans minds this weekend. Reason being “Big Time” boxing is back in the city by the bay. »» much more with the local promoter for this fight, Al King

TalkingBoxing's British Update
Cook burned; Witter should win comfortably; Hare-Barnes is one to watch

by Dave Crellin
11/11 - Last time Aldo Rios was over in the UK he grimly stuck to the task of getting beaten up by Ricky Hatton. This time he showed what he can do offensively as Jason Cook was stopped in three against the supposed non-punching Argentine. »» much more UK update

The Most Underrated Fighter in Boxing: David Diaz
by Julius Stecker
11/10 - Every time I hear about a guy deserving of a title shot one name pops in my head...and it's none other than jr. welterweight David Diaz. The 28-year old, top contender has been a fighter who has done everything asked of him. And he has done everything possible to be in the right place when the time comes. It's time to put his name near the top of a short list of excellent jr. welterweights. If Diaz were a Don King or a Bob Arum promoted fighter, fans wouldn't hear the end of how good this guy could be, but that just isn't the case as he remains a free agent, and with that comes a lack of hype and big-time fights. Diaz is holding his head high and understands his time will come, hopefully in 2005.

Nobody is talking about him and from a fans perspective, I just can't understand why. The Chicago-native Diaz is a personable guy, who is a former Olympian. Along with an undefeated record, 25-0, 13 KO's, he brings an exciting style to the ring packed with action and skill. »» much more with David Diaz

Talking Boxing with JERSON RAVELO
THE PRIDE OF NEWARK NEW JERSEY IS BACK!
by Danny Serratelli
11/10 - Super-middleweight rising star Jerson Ravelo, 14-1, along with 9 KO’s, returned to the ring on October 1st and took a decision over a tough opponent in Muhammad Said, 15-2. The 27-year old Ravelo made his CMX "Boxeo de Campeones" debut against an opponent who had won 11 of his last 12 bouts. Needless to say, Ravelo pounded out a decision victory is his first 10-round bout, also taking a step in the right direction in his quest for supremacy in the super-middleweight division. The Dominican native now fighting out of Newark, NJ has his sights set on a future match with IBF champion Jeff Lacy. "Lacy and I will meet up someday, maybe not soon, but we will meet up, definitely." Read on for much more with this top young prospect as BraggingRightsCorner columnist Danny Serratelli goes one-on-one in an exclusive interview! »» much more

Simms turns down fight against Dawson

11/10 - “Tarvis Simms is scared to fight Chad Dawson,” promoter Jimmy Burchfield (Classic Entertainment & Sports, Inc. president) fumed. “He should wear yellow trunks, or maybe a skirt. All he does is trash talk, telling everybody what he’d do to Dawson, but Simms has turned down what most likely is the most lucrative purse of his career to fight Chad.”

CES offered Simms (19-0, 11 KOs) a main event fight against Dawson (15-0, 10 KOs), WBC Youth middleweight champion and rated #19 by the WBC, December 10 at Foxwoods Resort Casino and on CN8/The Comcast Network.

Michalczewski Returns 11/10 - The 'Tiger' returns where he stopped one year ago: Right at the top. On February 26th the 36-year-old former world champion will challenge for the WBA light heavyweight title... Top Rank to Green Bay 11/10 - Top Rank Boxing at the Resch Center (Green Bay, WI) this Friday, November 12th. Top Rank will display some of their top talent in nationally televised card featuring heavyweight prospect Yamplier Azcuy taking on former world title challanger Vaughn Bean in a 10-round scrap...

Jirov Battles former champ Moorer, Dec. 9th on 'BDSSP'

11/10 - They are former world champions who have each excelled in two weight divisions. But after their heavyweight battle on Thursday, December 9 at the Pechanga Resort and Casino in Temecula, California, only one can move forward in the world heavyweight rankings. Will it be two-time heavyweight and former light heavyweight champion Michael Moorer, or former cruiserweight king Vassiliy Jirov?

Mosley Responds to Wright: "I will personally teach Winky Wright the definition of 'term limit'"
11/10 - Two-time Oscar De La Hoya conqueror 'Sugar' Shane Mosley, a world champion in three different weight divisions, took time out of his training schedule to address world super welterweight champion Winky Wright's recent remarks about their upcoming world title rematch, Saturday, November 20, at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino. "I am going to personally teach Winky the meaning of 'term limit' when we meet in the ring in 10 days," said Mosley. "He is going to find out being the 'incumbent' only guarantees that he enters - not exits - the ring last. At least Winky can take comfort knowing that even though his reign as undisputed champion was short, it was longer than the network run of 'The Next Great Champion.' I have a new chief of staff in Joe Goossen and I guarantee you THIS campaign will be run a lot different than the first one we ran in March!"

'Battle for Supremecy' Quotes
Rahman, Byrd, Ruiz, Golota, Donald and Meehan's Trainer Discuss Bouts

11/9 - With the November 13th 'Battle for Supremecy' pay-per-view approaching quickly, the heavyweight combatants in the four fights on the Don King card are wraping up their preparations and took time to answer some questions from the media at a recent press conference...Here is what some of them had to say!

Talking Boxing with 'VICIOUS' VIVIAN HARRIS
"We're tryin' to get Floyd Mayweather 'cause he wanna fight. So I'm tryin' to get him"
by Coyote Duran - Part One and Two
11/9 - The 140 pound division is arguably the deepest and best division in boxing today. With reigning king Kostya Tszyu atop the throne, amid the many belt holders and contenders, there stands a truly underrated force who waits patiently for his next victim. Guyanese born, Brooklyn, NY based WBA Super Lightweight titlist "Vicious" Vivian Harris was within a hair's breadth of stepping into the ring with undefeated Brit Ricky Hatton.

Negotiations would fall through and Harris was a titlist without an opponent. Harris had to jet to Europe to take on a man he already defeated once before on his own home turf, Oktay Urkal. After knocking out Urkal in the rematch, Harris is back to square one: Waiting while every other competent junior welter has a dance partner. PART TWO IS UP, click on the link for both parts! »» Vivian Harris Sounds off on in a two-part interview with TalkingBoxing's Coyote Duran

Rowland-Mendoza on 'ShoBox' 11/9 - Prospect Troy Rowland will take his next step toward a world title shot when he takes on WBO #13 middleweight contender Epifanio Mendoza, Friday, Nov. 19th on the Showtime's “ShoBox: The New Generation”...

Tarver, Johnson Relinquish Titles
The RING Belt will be at stake on December 18th

11/9 - A world championship belt is something all fighters dream of attaining. Antonio Tarver and Glen Johnson worked for years to finally earn that distinction and the recognition that goes with being a world champion. Unfortunately real world necessities sometimes interfere with the dreams in professional sports and fighters are forced to make decisions of a business nature to better the lives of their families.

Such was the dilemma of light heavyweights Antonio Tarver and Glen Johnson, who relinquished their championship belts (Tarver WBC, Johnson IBF) in order to face each other in a battle pitting the best against the best on December 18, in a bout many believe will crown the True Champion at 175-pounds.

Tarver-Johnson Speak at Today's Conference
Tarver: "My dream does not begin and end with Roy Jones"

11/9 - Saturday, December 18th, from Staples Center, Antonio Tarver will face Glen Johnson in a 12-round championship bout that will determine, once and for all, who is the best 175-pound fighter in the world.

Olajide,Gardner Co-feature 11/8 - Middleweights Tokunbo Olajide and Ian Gardner will duke it out for the vacant NABO/NABC 154-pound titles, in the co-feature of Winky Wright-Sugar Shane Mosley II...

Mike Stewart to Return in February 2005
11/9 - Exciting jr. welterweight Michael Stewart is not deterred by his recent KO loss to the respected WBU champ Ricky Hatton. Stewart gave TalkingBoxing an exclusive about his future. Even though he was disappointed by what he felt was an early stoppage loss to Hatton; he plans on making a return in February in his home state of Delaware.

“Hatton was the end of the first part of my career, and in February I will begin the second half of my career,” Stewart said. While the 26 year-old Stewart plans to vacate his USBA title, he feels that the learning experiences he received last year will lead to a huge 2005. “I will fight anybody, Russell Peltz does a great job for me, and I believe that my next fight will be on ESPN2 or on CN8.” So Stewart fans be on the look out for big 2005 from “No Joke”! • Discuss at the FORUM

Wright to Mosley: "This incumbent is staying in office"
11/9 - Winky Wright, the first undisputed super welterweight champion in 29 years and the first-ever three-belt 154-pound world champion, arrived in Las Vegas last night to begin his last 10-days of training before his rematch against 'Sugar' Shane Mosley. "Shane is going to find out that it isn't the trainer he should have changed for this fight, but the opponent," said Wright from his St. Petersburg-based training camp. "I am coming into this campaign with bipartisan support from my left AND my right. THIS incumbent is staying in office!" The Wright-Mosley rumble takes place Saturday, November 20th at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino televised live on HBO! »» interview with Wright • Discuss at the FORUM

Oliveira Makes a Promise 11/8 - "I’m going to school Ricky Hatton like I did Vivian Harris," promises ‘Sucra’ Ray Oliveira... Official: Pemberton #1 11/8 - The WBC has officially installed Scott Pemberton as its #1 contender. Pemberton, 29-3-1, must wait for the winner of the Markus Beyer-Danny Green title fight in 2005...

McCall-Williamson on "Supremecy" Undercard
11/8 - An intriguing heavyweight matchup is on tap for those making the trip to Madison Square Garden this Saturday for the "Battle for Supremacy" show. Former champion Oliver McCall continues his comeback against hard-hitting DaVarryl Williamson in an off-tv ten rounder.

McCall is making his second start of 2004, having stopped Vernon Woodward in three rounds on September 25, and Williamson will be in action for the second time in little over a month, coming off a fifth round techincal decision loss to Wladimir Klitschko on October 2, a bout that saw "Touch of Sleep" put Klitschko on the canvas. • Discuss at the FORUM

Taylor-Joppy, Dec. 4th on 'HBO After Dark'
11/8 - Sensational middleweight contender Jermain "Bad Intentions" Taylor returns home to Little Rock, Arkansas, to defend his WBC CA middleweight title against former three-time WBA champion William Joppy on Saturday night, December 4th, at Barton Coliseum, when DiBella Entertainment presents "Season's Beatings." The announcement was made today by DBE president Lou DiBella. HBO's popular Boxing After Dark series will televise the middleweight clash at 10:45 pm ET/PT and 9:45 pm Central.

» Tszyu Stops Mitchell » Hello World - Mitchell » Q&A Sharmba Mitchell I - II » Q&A with champ Kostya Tszyu » Put Up Time For Mitchell » Tszyu-Mitchell Official Site

Tszyu Finishes Mitchell in Three

by Frank Gonzalez Jr.
11/7 - Saturday night at the Glendale Arena in Arizona, 140-pound Champion Kostya Tszyu returned to the ring after 22-months away. There would be no tune up fights and no more wasted time. Tszyu was not back to play games, but to fight top fighters.

On the menu was Sharmba Mitchell, the IBF Interim Champion, who had earned his way there. A knee injury ended his chances in their first fight back in 2001. The chance for redemption finally arrived for Sharmba, who after so much talk and obsession was finally getting his much-wanted rematch with Tszyu after a three-year wait. »» great post-fight report | Tszyu Interview | Mitchell Interview

What Ring Rust? Tszyu Stops Mitchell
11/7 - In his first start in 22 months, Kostya 'The Thunder Down Under' Tszyu showed why he not only is recognized as the world's best 140-pounder but also is regarded as one of the best boxers pound for pound in the sport when he successfully defended his IBF junior welterweight title with an impressive, shockingly easy third-round knockout over IBF Interim Champion Sharmba Mitchell Saturday on SHOWTIME. »» more

Veit Stops Brewer 11/7 - WBO super middleweight 'interim' world champion Mario Veit stopped WBO #1 contender Charles Brewer with a right hand in round nine... Gardner-Olajide 11/13! 11/6 - Cappiello promotions announced today that jr. middleweight contender Ian "The Cobra" Gardner, 17-1, will be stepping up and taking on fellow once beaten Tukombo Olajide, 20-1...

Hello World - Opportunities Aplenty for Mitchell

by Andres Antonio Carriedo
11/5 - Imagine being a 58 fight veteran with no title, no major top pound for pound endorsements, no career defining victories, no HBO contract and worst of all no chance to avoid the fact that after 16 years of professional prize fighting the chances for superstardom in this sport have, for the most part, already passed you by. Welcome to the world of Sharmba Mitchell. »» much more on Sharmba Mitchell | Mitchell Q&A

Diaz Retains WBA Title with Win over Lorcy
by Andres Antonio Carriedo
11/5 - WBA Lightweight Champion Juan Diaz, 26-0, defeated former two-time champion Julian Lorcy in convincing fashion by taking a decisive 12-round unanimous decision victory in his first title defense last night. With the win Diaz retained his claim as the youngest active titlist in the entire sport of boxing. Diaz also moved himself closer to a possible unification match with one of the other titlist in the 135 lb. division.

IBF Lightweight Champion Julio Diaz (no relation), who issued a public challenge to Juan this past summer, was interviewed during the ESPN2 telecast and seemed open to the possibility of fighting the 21-year old Texan in the near future. Julio Diaz, who is promoted by Ringside Promotions, does not currently have a fight scheduled. Diego Corrales (WBO) and Jose Luis Castillo hold the other two major titles in the light weight division. • Discuss at the FORUM

Tszyu-Mitchell Quotes 11/5 - Final quotes from IBF 140-lb champ Kostya Tszyu and 'interim' IBF champ Sharmba Mitchell...

Conference Announces Klitschko-Williams
11/5 - A Press conference to formally announce the upcoming Klitschko-Williams world heavyweight championship fight on Saturday, Dec. 11, at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas on HBO Pay-Per-View (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) was held Thursday in Los Angeles. Klitschko (34-2, 33 KOs) will make his first WBC heavyweight title defense when he takes on contender and the man who knocked out Mike Tyson, Williams.

Witter to Mayweather: "Lets get it on!"
"You have a HBO date in January but no opponent yet, so here I am."

11/4 - British, Commonwealth and European light welterweight champion Junior Witter has issued a no nonsense challenge to Floyd Mayweather Jr, arguably the world’s best pound for pound fighter. “Come on Pretty Boy, lets get it on,” said Witter, who defends his European Title against Poland’s Krzysztof Bienias on the November 12th Hennessy Sports ‘Born To Do It’ promotion at the Wembley Conference Centre. “You have a HBO date in January but no opponent yet, so here I am. Come get me. Witter continued, “I am about to prove I am the best in the world. If you want to play with the big boys at 140lb, lets go.” He ended with a porediction, “Take note, I will call it right here and now: Witter beats Mayweather, by way of the big KO." • Discuss at the FORUM

TARVER-JOHNSON Determines 175-pound Supremacy
The Unification Clash is December 18th on HBO
11/4 - To be the best. It’s something that Antonio Tarver and Glen Johnson have worked years and years to achieve, with much of that time being spent away from the spotlight, sweating in gyms, fighting on undercards, waiting for the opportunity to shine. Those opportunities arrived in 2004, and both fighters made the most of them. Now, on Saturday, December 18, the last major fight of the year may be the most important one, as Tarver and Johnson will battle it out live at Los Angeles STAPLES Center, not only for total supremacy at 175 pounds, but for the likely title of ‘Fighter of the Year.’

Hooters Hosts ONE IN A MILLION Press Conference
AREA BUSINESSES TO HOST "SHOWDOWN" FIGHTERS AND FANS

11/4 - The Merrillville Hooters Restaurant will again host ONE IN A MILLION INC. fighters in a press conference at 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 9, 2004, for its "Pre-Thanksgiving Showdown", the Nov. 19 boxing show to be held at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza where the proceeds will be donated to Joey Golubic who has cerebral Palsy. »» One in a Million

Honorio-Abelyan on CMX 11/4 - November 5th former NBA champ Martin "El Brochas" Honorio battles former NABO champ William "The Conqueror" Abelyan, 23-5-1...

TalkingBoxing's British Update
Harrison blitzes woeful Kebede; Cook takes on rugged Rios; Williams has too much

by Dave Crellin
11/4 - ‘Don’t blink’ I said. If you did, and your blinks last for 59 seconds, you could well have missed the contest which saw Scott Harrison crowned as the Scottish boxer with most ever ‘world’ title defences. Samuel Kebede was the man of mystery who most people picked to at least give the champion a few rounds with his slippery boxing skills. He didn’t. Frank Maloney, handling Harrison, had criticized poor ticket sales in the run-up to this card, wondering where the ‘so-called tartan army’ were. If there’s one thing about Scotsmen that’s true it’s that they don’t like wasting money. »» much more UK update

Talking Boxing with NORMAN STONE
Will WBA champ Ruiz knockout Golota? Norman Stone, "Yes!"
by Julius Stecker
11/3 - In his first title defense of the WBA belt the second time around, John Ruiz scored an impressive 11th round TKO over Fres Oquendo, the same Oquendo who gave IBF champion Chris Byrd troubles in a disputed decision in September, 2003. November 13th on the "Battle for Supremecy" Don King pay-per-view card, the 32-year old Ruiz takes on Andrew Golota, who himself fought Byrd to a disputed draw back in April on the Ruiz-Oquendo card. Why not unify with Byrd so fans can see an end to this madness? "Golota is one of the top heavyweights in the world," said Ruiz' trainer Norman Stone, but the unifying is just around the corner. Lets face it, Ruiz, who is working hard in the gym, wants to unify, but understands he has a very tough opponent in front of him on November 13th. "We'd like to fight the Byrd-[Jameel] McCline winner to get the IBF belt and then take on [Vitali] Klitschko," Stone told TalkingBoxing.com. Here's hoping these titles can be unified soon. »» more with Norman Stone in a quick Q&A

Talking Boxing with JAMEEL McCLINE
"I would say I am in the best shape of my life"
by Julius Stecker
11/3 - Coming off a April 15th knockout of Wayne Llewelyn on Showtime, top rated IBF heavyweight contender Jameel McCline wants to make an even bigger splash, this time on HBO PPV's "Struggle for Supremacy" card, November 13th. McCline, 31-3-3, will get a second title shot, this time against IBF champ Chris Byrd. Unlike his first attempt, a loss at the hands of WBO champion Wladimir Klitschko in 2002, McCline hasn't over-trained and is more confident about his chances for a world title this time around. "Anytime you get a chance to fight for the heavyweight title it is special. I will be bringing extreme confidence into this fight," said McCline. Since 2002, McCline has been on a tear taking out contenders Cedric Boswell and Charles Shufford by knockout. With a 6 foot, 6 inch frame, McCline wants to impose his power on Byrd, who is a slickster giving up five inches and a possible 60 pounds. "I will try to impose my size and my skill on him," said McCline. Read on for our quick one-on-one with the IBF #1 contender! »» more

Pay Per View vs. Pay Per Pew

by Carl Rice
11/3 - It has been a pretty slow in the world of boxing. The month of October hasn’t offered any big fights, and combined with the 3 game losing streak my Ohio State Buckeyes endured (finally winning last weekend against Big Ten doormat Indiana), I’ve been at the brink of insanity. But starting next week, Showtime offers a pretty good fight as Sharmba Mitchell once again takes on Kostya Tzsyu for all the marbles in the Jr. Welterweight division. That’s a good fight to see and it’s not even on Pay-Per-View. The most striking thing about this is that if it were presented on PPV, I’d have to seriously consider if I wanted to purchase it. But the week after that, there’s a PPV that I already know that I won’t be getting. »» much more from Mr. Carl Rice

TalkingBoxing's Quick Tidbits
Calzaghe Re-Inks; Hernandez, Jauregui added to PPV; Briggs with Don King
11/3 - Promoter Frank Warren announced that WBO super middleweight champ Joe Calzaghe has signed a new managerial and promotional agreement with Sports Network. Calzaghe, unbeaten in 38 fights and the longest reigning world champion in British boxing, defended his title successfully for the fifteenth time against Kabary Salem in Edinburgh last month. The 32-year-old Welshman joins British heavyweight star Danny Williams, who challenges Vitali Klitschko for his WBC heavyweight title next month in Las Vegas, in re-signing with Warren. frankwarren.tv. »»» Former IBF jr. lightweight champ Carlos Hernandez, 40-4-1, battles a 'TBA' and former IBF lightweight champ Javier Jauregui, 48-11-2, takes on FECARBOX 130-pound champ Carlos Navarro on undercard of the upcoming Vitali Klitschko-Danny Williams WBC heavyweight title fight on PPV, December 11th. »»» WBC #1-rated light-heavyweight contender Paul Briggs has signed a promotional agreement with Don King Productions. "I have shunned all offers from promoters for the last three years," Briggs said from King's South Florida office, "because I wanted to become the No. 1 light heavyweight mandatory challenger to make sure I would be a top priority for any promoter." • Discuss at the FORUM

Interview with MARIO VEIT
by Fabien Weber - boxing.de
11/2 - On November 6th German super middleweight contender Mario Veit, 44-1 (22), will be facing one of the strongest opponents of his career. The 30-year-old man from Hamburg will defend his WBO 168 lb. interim world title against American Charles Brewer, 40-9 (28), a former IBF world champion now ranked number 1 by the World Boxing Organization. Brewer and Veit have a common opponent: Welchman Joe Calzaghe who beat them both. The winner of the duel between Veit and and Brewer would be in line to face Calzaghe again. »» much more

'Solo Boxeo' Returns to Hawthorne Friday!

11/2 - Aldo "Pato" Valtierra, 21-6 (11KO's) of Mexico City, Mexico returns to Chicagoland to face undefeated, world ranked featherweight Steven Luevano, 25-0, (12KO's) of La Puente, CA in the ten round main event on Friday, November 5th as TELEFUTURA'S SOLO BOXEO is broadcast live from the Hawthorne Race Course for an unprecedented third straight month in a row. The full evening, featuring Chicagoland's finest professional boxing, is presented by Dominic Pesoli's 8 Count Productions along with Bob Arum's Top Rank Incorporated and Miller Lite.

Holyfield-Donald Pre-Fight Teleconference
11/2 - EVANDER HOLYFIELD: I think the layoff has helped me. It gave me a chance to realistically go back and look at my past fights and that would let me know if I am willing to pay the price that is necessary. People have to make that decision for themselves if it helped me after this fight.

The adjustment is that I changed trainers, which is a great thing. A lot had to do with it. I have a trainer that knows me. He worked with me back in the George Benton days. He realizes what I can do and he believes in me. It’s amazing when you get in the ring’ A lot has to do with what someone expects of you. If someone feels that you are old and don’t feel that you can do it - then they don’t push or have the patience for you to do it. We have to do it at courtside working together. With Ronnie Shields and with my work ethic, I believe that we have the team.

Talking Boxing with SHARMBA MITCHELL
On Tszyu's layoff: "Maybe he will be able to put up his best, but he still can’t beat me"
by Jason Peck
11/1 - It has been more than three years since a knee injury cost 'interim' IBF champion Shamba Mitchell, 55-3, his WBA junior welterweight title against WBC champion Kosta Tszyu. While Tszyu unified the belts, Mitchell fought eight times with eight victories to get another shot at avenging his loss. His chance finally comes on November 6th, when Tszyu returns to fight Mitchell for the IBF belt.

Mitchell took some time out of his schedule to talk one-on-one with TalkingBoxing.com about his shot at redemption. Showtime will televise the world title fight from the Glendale Arena in Phoenix, Ariz., at 9 p.m. ET/PT. »» Mr. Peck goes one-on-one with Sharmba Mitchell | September Q&A with Mitchell

Van Sickle Defends Dec. 4th at Battle at the Boat!
11/1 - Undefeated WBC CAC cruiserweight champ Chad Van Sickle, 18-0-2, will face Ogden, Utah’s Gary Gomez, 12-4-0, in the 34th installment of the Battle at the Boat, December 4th, 2004 at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, WA. Tickets are $75/$40/$20 and available at Ticketmaster and at the Emerald Queen Casino.

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