OCTOBER, 2004

TalkingBoxing's Quick Tidbits
Pemberton, Dawson, Harrison Win; Binkowski Returns
10/31 - On Friday night from Foxwoods Casion in CT, top rated WBC super-middleweight Scott Pemberton stopped James Crawford in the third round when the ringside physician ruled a swolln eye on Crawforn was to severe to continue. In under card action middleweight prospect "Bad" Chad Dawson remained unbeaten at 15-0 with a 10-round decision win over Darnell Wilson in defense of his WBC youth title. Also, cruiserweight propsect Matt Godfrey stopped Joe Johnson in the 4th round. »»»» With a potential showdown versus WBC champ Injin Chi looming, WBO featherweight champ Scott Harrison, 23-2-1, bombed out Samuel Kebede, 24-1, in just under a minute for his third title defense. »»»» November 3rd, Bobby Hitz delivers another night of prizefighting in Chicago in the second installment of thier "Bar Room Brawl" series, live from Shark City Sports Bar in Glendale Heights, IL. Headlining is Illinois heavyweight champ Art 'The Polish Warrior' Binkowski, 12-0 in a scheduled 6-round bout. Also Tommy Spinks and heavyweight Thomas Hayes, 16-1, step into the ring looking to extend their win streaks. • Discuss at the FORUM

Tszyu Wants to Pick up where he left off, on Top
"We need to see who is the best fighter in the world now"
by Monty McMahon
10/29 - Maybe it’s all of the chatter coming from his opponent. Maybe it’s the doubters who think that his nearly two-year layoff will be too much to overcome when he steps back into the ring. Maybe it’s his increasing age and the knowledge that the majority of his career is over. Maybe its just Kosta Tszyu (30-1, 24 KOs), but the one-time undisputed 140-pound king sounds more than motivated to reclaim his spot at the top of the Jr. welterweight division in his rematch with IBF Jr. Featherweight Interim Champion Sharmba Mitchell (55-3, 31 KOs) on November 6.

“I don’t need to prove by saying anything, I need to prove it by doing something. And that’s why all the critics will probably change their view after the fight,” Tszyu said. »» much more with Kostya Tszyu

Cotto Headlines Klitschko-Williams Undercard, Dec. 11th
10/29 - Undefeated, hard-hitting Puerto Rican sensation Miguel Cotto will be featured as the top undercard of the Vitali Klitschko-Danny Williams world heavyweight championship fight on Saturday, Dec. 11, live on HBO Pay Per View from The Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. Cotto will make the first defense of his World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior welterweight title against former world champion Randall Bailey.

Strictly Kosher - Salita to Headlines November 18th
10/29 - Jewish jr. welterweight sensation Dmitriy Salita, 19-0, fresh off his victorious New York debut, hits the bright lights of Broadway on Thursday night, November 18th, when he headlines Broadway Boxing Presented by Mohegan Sun at the Grand Ballroom at the Manhattan Center. Salita, a native of Odessa, Ukraine, will square off against Paul Delgado, 12-4-1. Jeffrey Resto, 17-2, appears in an 8-round jr. welterweight contest; unbeaten Ehinomen "Hino" Ehikhamenor, 8-0, is slated for a 6-round cruiserweight tilt; Jaidon Codrington, 4-0, will see action in a super middleweight 6-rounder. Tickets are priced from $35-$75 call DiBella Entertainment at 212-947-2577 to order. • Discuss at the FORUM

Put Up Or Shut Up Time For Mitchell

by Frank Gonzalez Jr.
10/28 - Flash back to February of 2001. WBA Light Welterweight Champion Sharmba Mitchell taking on WBC Champion Kostya Tszyu at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, the Mecca of Big-time Boxing showdowns.

Tszyu hadn’t lost since May of 1997 when “Cool” Vince Philips TKO’d him in 10 in a fight considered the “upset of the year.” Mitchell hadn’t lost a fight since 1994; a TKO 9 loss to Stevie Johnston and prior to that was KO’d by Leavander Johnson in eight rounds at Lightweight. Since then, Mitchell has carefully stayed away from fighters with the last name Johnson. »» Tszyu-Mitchell Preview | Q&A Tszyu - Q&A Mitchell

The Emergence of the Latino Fighter

by Bert Randolph Sugar - Boxing Analyst CMXsports.com
10/28 - To understand boxing one must understand its roots. From its beginnings the sport has resonated with urban ethnicity, drawing its recruits from the tenements, the ghettos, the projects, the barrios, the places that offered little presence and even less of a future. Many a troubled and troublesome youngster has embraced “The Sweet Science” as a way out, a social staircase from of the mean streets which form his limited world, fighting his way, bloody hand-over-bloody hand, up the ladder of acceptance the only way he knew: with his fists.

Gatti to battle Leija on Jan 29th in Atlantic City
10/28 - WBC super lightweight champion Arturo Gatti, 38-6, returns to the ring on January 29th to defend his crown against former champion Jesse James Leija, 47-6-2, it was announced yesterday by Main Events CEO Kathy Duva. Bally’s Atlantic City will host the electrifying evening of boxing, which will take place at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ. HBO’s “World Championship Boxing Series” will broadcast the bout live. • Discuss at the FORUM

Eastman voted mandatory challenger to Hopkins
10/28 - WBC President Jose Sulaiman annouced, "The World Boxing Council hereby informs that No. 1 ranked middleweight contender Howard Eastman has been confirmed as the mandatory challenger for world champion Bernard Hopkins. "During the World Boxing Council annual convention in Phuket, Thailand, a purse offer was held for a final elimination bout between Eastman and Jermain Taylor. Taylor has since informed the WBC, however, that he will not face Eastman. Consequently, a vote was taken by the WBC Board of Governors which resulted in a unanimous ratification of Eastman as mandatory challenger." • Discuss at the FORUM

"The Dream Continues" Final Press Conference

10/28 - The final press conference for Friday night’s “The Dream Continues,” headlined by IBU middleweight champion Scott “The Sandman” Pemberton (28-3-1, 23 KOs) against challenger James Crawford (40-7-2, 2NC, 17 KOs), was held today where the show will be held, Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut.

"Mighty Mike Time" - Ferocious Foreigner Flattens Feliciano

10/28 - When Jesse Feliciano, 12-2, stepped into the ring at the Chumash Casino in Santa Ynez, California last Friday night, he had no idea that "Mighty" Mike Arnaoutis held a card up his sleeve that would spell an early end to the hotly anticipated NABO championship contest. The three knockdowns dealt to Feliciano in rapid succession prompted referee James Jen Kin III to step in and put a merciful end to the one sided contest, and in the blink of an eye, the fight was over and a new champion was crowned. The TKO came at 2 minutes 49 seconds of the opening round, and the message was clear: No matter who sits down at the table, "Mighty" Mike has an ace in the whole.

Talking Boxing with RONALD 'WINKY' WRIGHT
"I love the fans because without them, the press would've overlooked me"
by Coyote Duran
10/27 - For years the 154 pound division has been a passing proving ground for many of "The Sweet Science's" biggest names. Champions and titlists with names like Hearns, Leonard, Duran (No relation, obviously.), Norris, Trinidad, Vargas, De La Hoya and Mosley have come and gone but today, one particular, oft-overlooked name sits at the top of the list: Ronald "Winky" Wright. Wright (47-3, 25 KOs), after long years of paying his dues and submitting to an unequalled workman-like ethic, finally secured his dream this past March, defeating former pound-for-pound boss, "Sugar" Shane Mosley to unify the jr. middleweight division.

I spoke with the undisputed champ, via telephone, about how he feels about the IBF stripping him of their respective portion of the title, his preparation for his upcoming rematch defense against Mosley in November, Roy Jones Jr.' and about his plans for the future. Albeit very busy at this time, the champ was warm, accomodating and absolutely candid. Here's what Winky Wright, Undisputed 154 Pound Champion of the World had to say... »» much, much more with the best jr. middleweight in the world!

TalkingBoxing's British Update
Calzaghe wins with few fans; Arthur much improved; Harrison shouldn’t be troubled

by Dave Crellin
10/27 - If ever an opponent had ‘spoiler’ written all over him, it was Kabary Salem who took on Joe Calzaghe in Edinburgh last Friday. This is probably a tape I’ll give to the wife so she can record EastEnders tomorrow night. In a thoroughly forgettable match Calzaghe did at least provide one moment of excitement by walking onto a blindly countering right hand in the fourth round and getting decked but the solidity of his chin showed again as he rose after a short count and continued to dominate the fight.

Tszyu-Mitchell Appetizer is Guzman-Licona!
Tszyu: "I am very excited about getting in the ring again"
10/27 - Two of boxing’s most talented pound-for-pound fighters will square off in a highly anticipated rematch when IBF “Super” 140-Pound Champion Kostya Tszyu defends his title against Interim IBF jr. welterweight champ Sharmba Mitchell Saturday, Nov. 6th, 2004, on SHOWTIME. In the co-feature, WBO jr. featherweight champ Joan Guzman will defend his title for the second time when he takes on WBO #13 contender Marcos Licona.

Former WBA Lightweight Champion Leo Dorin Retires
"I'm proud of what I did in my life"
10/27 - The Canadian Press is reporting former WBA lightweight champ Leo Dorin annouced he will retire from the squared circle. Dorin will be remebered for memorable battles with Paul Spadafora and Raul Balbi, but most recently, he challenged Arturo Gatti for the WBC jr. welterweight crown. "I'm proud of what I did in my life," Dorin told CP. "Now, I have three kids and it's hard for me to focus on boxing. I don't want to lose my family." Dorin, who was born in Romaina, also owns a house in Canada saying, "I'm proud to be Canadian." He plans on keeping both houses in retirement. The 34-year old Dorin retires with a 22-1-1 record along with an amazing amateur career. • Discuss at the FORUM

Harrison Looks to Send a Message by Knocking Out the Courier

by Curtis McCormick
10/27 - WBO Featherweight Champion Scott Harrison has the undefeated Samuel Kebede firmly in his sights and on Friday night the Cambuslang hardman gets the opportunity to pull the trigger on the Swedish based Ethiopian challenger. Harrison will attempt to make the third defense of his second title reign before moving on to greatly anticipated title unification matches and a possible move up to the super featherweight class.

Cora Defends against Elizalde, Echols Showcased Dec. 2nd!
10/27 - Promoter Art Pelullo/Banner Promotions will present a sensational championship fight card on Thursday, December 2nd, 2004. The main event will match two undefeated prospects - USBA cruiserweight champion Felix "Bad News" Cora Jr. will defend the title against James "Thunder" Elizalde scheduled for 12 rounds. Hard-hitting middleweight contender Antwun Echols will be featured in the 10-round co-featured bout against an opponent to be announced.

Klitschko, Williams Come Together Via Conference Call
by Coyote Duran
10/26 - Today, the boxing press was invited to take part in a national conference call hosted by Tom Loeffler of K2 Promotions and Mark Taffet of HBO Pay-Per-View spotlighting the upcoming World Heavyweight Championship match on December 11th between The Ring Magazine World/WBC Heavyweight Champion Vitali Klitschko and The Ring Magazine #9/WBC #7 contender Danny Williams.

Williams, a former British and Commonwealth champion, is best known for his crushing win over the faded, former world champion, Mike Tyson, this past summer. This win propelled Williams to the position he holds now: Challenger to the greatest prize in boxing. »» much more

Klitschko, Williams Conference Call Transcript
10/26 - WBC Heavyweight Champion Vitali Klitschko will make his first title defense against the guy who most recently knocked out Mike Tyson, Danny Williams, on Saturday, December 11, 2004, at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Nev. The fight card is being produced and distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and has a suggested retail price of $49.95.

Klitschko, Williams Heats Up
Vitali: "I will prove once again that I am the best heavyweight in the world"
10/26 - WBC Heavyweight Champion Vitali Klitschko will make his first title defense against the man who most recently knocked out Mike Tyson, Danny Williams, on Saturday, December 11, 2004, at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Nev. The fight is being produced and distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View. The 12-round heavyweight championship fight will highlight a spectacular evening of boxing presented by K2 Promotions, Inc., in association with Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino.

Hatton Bounces Back with Tough Oliveira on Dec. 11th
10/25 - Ricky Hatton and his WBU jr. welterweight will battle veteran contender Ray Oliveira at the ExCel Exhibition Centre in London's Docklands on December 11th. Hatton, who holds the top rating in the IBF, will have to bring his best if he wants to get by the 36-year young Oliveira. Oliveira is no stanger to top opponents as he has bested some of the best in the game as well as gave the best in the game all they could handle. Oliveira is still the only fighter to beat WBA champ Vivian Harris. Hatton looks to fight the November 6th Kostya Tszyu-Sharmba Mitchell winner, but understands the mountain he must climb. "He's a 100 mile-an-hour fighter who throws loads of shots. He's never been stopped and has fought some of the best fighters in the world, so I know that I will need to be at my best to win." Don't miss our chat with Ray Oliviera on November 4th at 9PM/ET! • Discuss at the FORUM

Showtime Features Exciting Tripleheader Dec. 4th
10/25 - 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 pm from Mandalay Bay Resort in Las Vegas. In the main event, former WBA 130-lb champ Joel Casamayor will attempt to win his second world title when he steps up in weight to challenge two-time WBC lightweight champ Jose Luis Castillo. In the evening's second televised bout, IBF super-middleweight champ Jeff Lacy will make his initial title defense against IBF #14 contender Omar Sheika.

Opening the tripleheader will be undefeated heavyweight contender Samuel Peter, 20-0, taking on heavyweight contender Jeremy Williams, 41-4-1, for the vacant NABF title. Top Rank, Inc. in association with Gary Shaw Productions and Cedric Kushner Promotions with Team Freedom and Duva Boxing will present the event. • Discuss at the FORUM

Harris stops Urkal in 11th, retains title
10/24 - On Saturday in Berlin, WBA jr. welterweight champion Vivian Harris retained his title with a knockout. Harris, 25-1-1, landed the knockout blow at 0:56 of the 11th frame of in his world title defense finishing off Oktay Urkal of Germany. The challenger showed heart getting up after the knockdown, but the referee promptly halted the bout. Urkal, 34-3, previously fought Harris to a close decision loss in April of this year and also lost to undisputed champion Kostya Tszyu, however this was his first loss by stoppage.

Harris spoke after the bout, giving his tough opponent, a former 1996 Olympic silver medalist, respect. "He's a top fighter, but I was a better fighter tonight. But that's why I came back, because he was so strong the first time, said Harris. Urkal hinted this could be his final bout saying, "I don't have any desire to wait three or four years for another title shot." • Discuss at the FORUM

Ponce De Leon KOs Lucero; Rubio, Mora Battle to Draw
by Coyote Duran
10/23 - "Quien mas macho?", indeed. The main event of Telefutura's Miller's Solo Boxeo was an interesting bout between junior featherweight/featherweight prospect Daniel Ponce De Leon and former IBF 122 pound titleholder Emmanuel Lucero for the NABO Super Bantamweight strap. »» post fight report from Mr. Duran

Calzaghe Remains Unbeaten, De Leon Stops Lucero in Three!
10/23 - WBO super-middleweight champion Joe Calzaghe defended his belt for the 15th time with a 12-round unanimous decision over Kabary Salem in Edinburgh. The 32-year old Calzaghe improved to an impressive 38-0, but was embarrassed by being dropped in the fourth frame for only the second time in his career [former WBA champ Byron Mitchell was the other]. Calzaghe was also deducted a point in the second for headbutting, but the scorecards of 117-109, 118-107 and 116-109, read a comfortable points decision. Salem gave the champ some difficulty to which Calzaghe responded to the BBC after the fight, "I'm disappointed with my performance. I'm glad I won but Salem came to spoil, he succeeded in making me look bad but I'm going to get better." Calzaghe also mentioned the difficulty he has in making super-middleweight and his desire to move to light-heavyweight and fight IBF champ Glen Johnson.

From El Paso, Texas, super bantamweight Daniel Ponce De Leon, 21-0, fought back from his tough opponent's early onslaught to score a third round KO over Emmanuel Lucero, 22-3-1, last night on Telefutura. In under card action, Juan Carlos Rubio, 30-4-1, and prospect Adrian Mora, 12-0-1, fought to a 10-round majority draw by scores of 95-95 (twice) and 96-94 Rubio. Lightweight Ivan Valle, 23-5-1, scored a unanimous decision over Armando Cordova, 21-14-1. »» De Leon-Lucero, Mora-Rubio Post-Fight Report

Arnoutis Destroys Feliciano for NABO Title on 'SHOBOX'
10/23 - Undefeated Mike Arnaoutis floored Jesse Feliciano three times in the initial three minutes to capture the vacant North American Boxing Organization (NABO) junior welterweight title with an opening-round knockout Friday on “ShoBox: The New Generation.” In the junior lightweight co-feature from the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, Calif., Agnaldo Nunes and Isidro Granados fought to an action-packed, eight-round majority draw. »» post fight report | Arnatoutis Interview

Morel Out of Oct. 29th, Wants "Choko" Hernadez
10/22 - Peter Rivera, manager of Eric Morel told BoxeoMundial.net, that the ex-WBA flyweight champion will not be fighting on the 29th of October as had been previously reported. Rivera notified BoxeoMundial that the Puerto Rican injured his foot while running and will need to rest for three weekes. However, Morel is in fighting in form and Rivera expects him to be fighting very soon. Rivera wouldlike to have Morel in action on December 18, 2004 if a Top Rank promoted card in Puerto Rico goes through as planned. Rivera also informed BoxeoMundial that Morel is looking to fight current WBO super flyweight champion Ivan "Choko" Hernadez, 19-0, of Mexico. BoxeoMundial.net • Discuss at the FORUM

Figueroa-Burford Headline, Poore Attempts 16th Straight KO
10/22 - Miguel Figueroa, of Camden, NJ, ends a 10-month layoff when he boxes unbeaten Julian Burford, of Cleveland, OH, in the 10-round welterweight main event Friday, Nov. 12, at the New Alhambra Sports & Entertainment Center, Swanson & Ritner Streets (next to Forman Mills), in South Philadelphia.

'Solo Boxeo' Returns to Chicago for HUGE Night!
10/22 - Dominic Pesoli's 8 Count Productions and Bob Arum's Top Rank Incorporated along with Miller Beer team up for an unprecedented third month as Telefutura's SOLO BOXEO broadcasts internationally from Chicago on Friday, November 5th from the famed Riviera Theater located at Broadway and Lawrence in the Uptown section of Chicago.

Witter: "Chances are that Hatton won’t fight me"
10/22 - Bradford’s Junior Witter has all but given up hope of getting domestic rival Ricky Hatton into the ring. “I will still call his name, but deep down I know the chances are that Hatton won’t fight me,” said the current British, Commonwealth and European champion and WBC number 3.

“I have thrown my hat into the ring enough times, but Ricky keeps booting it back out again. Whilst there is a glimmer I wont give up, but I need to do my own thing and continue moving past him.”

Enter the Maze of the Featherweights
by Andres Antonio Carriedo
10/21 - The buildup to Marco Antonio Barrera’s fight against Manny Pacquiao did not focus its attention upon the changing of the guard in the featherweight division. Instead, the talk leading up to that fight revolved mostly around the revelation that Barrera had fought roughly the previous six years with a small metal plate in his head.

However, Pacquiao’s dominant triumph over Barrera marked the tumultuous overthrow of the featherweight leadership. Now, boxing fans continue to attempt to decipher the aftermath of the storm Pacquiao unleashed on the great Barrera that night in November of 2003. »» more

TalkingBoxing's Quick Tidbits
40 Fights on ESPN in 2005; Jirov-Moorer on 12/9; N'Dou Retires
10/21 - According to USA Today, the ESPN and Main Events deal will include a total of 40 Friday night shows next year with Main Events showcasing their talent on 10 of them. The plan also includes 2 to 3 pay-per-view shows, which will increase their ratings among boxing fans with a hunger for live, free and competitive bouts. »»» Speaking of ratings, after a successful all-around production and ratings boost from their "Best Damn Heavyweight Period" broadcast, Fox Sports Net and Goossen-Tutor Promotions will join together and feature a live telecast on December 9th against contender Vassiliy Jirov and former heavyweight champ Michael Moorer. The venue will be announced shortly.

This Saturday, October 23rd in Berlin, WBA 140-lb champ Vivian Harris faces Oktay Urkal in a rematch of their last April encounter which saw Harris keep his crown with points split decision. »»» In sad turn of events, Phillip Ndou has announced his retirement from boxing. The former lightweight title challeneger underwent a brain scan which detected a brain irregularity that could cause permanent damage if the fighter were to continue to box. • Discuss at the FORUM

ESPN, Main Events Enter PAY-PER-VIEW Realm
WBA champion Juan Diaz defends against WBA #1 Julien Lorcy on November 4th

10/21 - Main Events has joined forces with ESPN to add a premier monthly boxing series within ESPN2 Friday Night Fights in 2005 and feature two pay-per-view events, it was announced today by ESPN Senior Vice President of Interactive Sales Matt Murphy, ESPN Senior Vice President of Programming John Wildhack, and Main Events CEO Kathy Duva.

'Mighty' Mike Looking to Take World By Storm
by Julius Stecker
10/21 - There is a buzz surrounding jr. welterweight prospect 'Mighty' Mike Arnaoutis, 10-0-1 and he is looking to make a statement tomorrow night on October 22nd at the Chumash Casino in Santa Ynez, California, on the acclaimed boxing series "ShoBox". Having completed over 135 rounds of hard sparring, 'Mighty' Mike is ready for his second showcase on the Showtime network. His opponent will be the the tough and respected fellow prospect Jessie Feliciano, 12-2-2.

'Mighty' Mike has had many boxing pundits and fans excited ever since his spirited fight against Juan Urango this past August. A fight in which his adviser Mike Michael said, “He proved he could go 12 rounds and beat a monster.” (The fight ended in a disputed draw.) Mike is now looking to capitalize on this momentum and TalkingBoxing.com caught up with him and adviser Mike Michael to get their take on the upcoming fight and much more. »» more with 'Mighty' Mike

RE-MATCH: Pacquiao-Marquez in Early 2005
10/21 - Being reported by The Philippine Star, promoter Murad Muhammad has confirmed that The Ring featherweight champion Manny Pacquiao will fight IBF/WBA champ Juan Manuel Marquez in a rematch next February in Las Vegas on HBO. The pair waged war in May, which saw the back-and-forth brawl end in a draw. Muhammad told reporter Joaquin Henson, "Manny will earn close to $1 Million, more than what he got [$750,000] in the first bout," said Muhammad. "We’ve agreed on a February schedule. It’ll be either on Feb. 19 or 26. The possible sites are Mandalay Bay, MGM Grand and Caesar’s Palace." Muhammad worked to get Pacquiao a mega-bout with WBC champ Eric Morales in July, but "Pac-Man" injured his hand. Also, a rematch with Marco Antonio Barrera was in the works, but declined as Barrera and Morales hooked up for a third bout on November 27th. The pair of troubles left Pacquiao without a bout until a tune-up on December 4th against Gairy St. Clair in Taguig, Philippines. But like a true manager, who landed the big rematch with Marquez in February, Muhammed said, "I’ll take care of producing the fights and he [Pacquiao] should just take care of the fighting." • Discuss at the FORUM

Talking Boxing with SYD VANDERPOOL
by Julius Stecker
10/20 - Coming off a difficult loss at the hands of the current IBF super-middleweight champ Jeff Lacy on October 2nd, Syd "The Jewel" Vanderpool, 35-3, is disappointed, but knows he left it all out in the ring that night. "Sure I would have liked the outcome to be in my favor, but it wasn't, and I accept that because I entered the ring as a warrior and I left the ring as one," said Vanderpool, who is your 'no excuses' type of fighter, refreshing to say the least. Vanderpool, who saw his seven-bout winning streak come to an abrupt end that night, isn't done fighting and striving for a world title.

Although a re-match with Lacy might not be in the immediate future for Vanderpool, he still would like that chance, soon. Vanderpool said, "the fact is that Jeff Lacy is the IBF world champion, a title that I want to hold and I would love to fight him again one day...soon!" In the meantime, how does Vanderpool versus top-rated Danny Green sound? "Any fight with a fighter who is being touted as the best super-middleweight is a good fight for me, and one that I want. A Vanderpool versus Green fight would be a sleeper. I don't think it's a boring fight. I mean somebody will be taking a nap before the final bell sounds," said Vanderpool. »» more

Lacy Defends IBF Title versus Sheika Dec. 4th
"Now it is time to give my new title a spin around the block"

10/20 - 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 Lacy will become the first member of that same team to defend a world title, all within an eight-week span. Lacy, 17-0, will defend his title against two-time world title challenger Omar Sheika, 27-6, in the co-main event to the Jose Luis Castillo-Joel Casamayor WBC lightweight championship, Saturday, December 4th. Both fights will be televised on SHOWTIME Championship Boxing. Lacy captured the vacant world title via an eighth-round technical knockout over #1 contender and two-time world title challenger Syd Vanderpool earlier this month. "That victory was my Olympics, my gold medal," said Lacy. "Now it is time to give my new title a spin around the block. I cannot wait to get back in the gym and prepare for my first title defense." • Discuss at the FORUM

TalkingBoxing's Quick Tidbits
Bidenko Battles 10/26; Sosa gets Quick KO; Tsypko new foe; Clottey Sounds off

10/20 - Heavyweight prospect Taras Bidenko will top a fightcard on October 26th in Rostock, Germany. The 24-year-old Bidenko, 12-1, is 9-0 since facing 7-footer Nicolay Valuev and will fight Mathew Elis, 18-4-1, a 30-year-old Englishman trained by British coach Ronnie Davies. »»» Victoriano Sosa, 39-4-2, successfully defended his Dominican lightweight title two nights ago via a first round KO of Marcos Hernandez. »»» Illinois heavyweight Champion Art Binkowski, 12-0-1, will be fighting Wednesday, Nov. 3rd against James Searcy 8-4, at Shark City Sports Bar in Glendale Heights, IL. »»» Being reported by risumboxing.dk, Ukrainian super-middleweight Vitali Tsypko, 14-0, in now the mandatory challenger to European champ Rudy Markussen, 29-1. Early indications and rankings had Tsypko facing IBF champ Jeff Lacy on December 4th in a re-match, but Lacy will now battle IBF #14 Omar Sheika. We will keep you posted.

Thursday's "Broadway Boxing" at the Mohegan Sun is heating up as Ghana sensation Emmanuel Clottey is predicting a knockout over Michael Warrick in the 10-round 140-lb main event. "I'm going to take him out in the sixth round," said Clottey. "I've watched his tapes, I am very confident." Also in action that night, super-middleweight prospect Jaidon Codrington, 3-0, battles in a 4-round bout. "I am very comfortable fighting so close to home," said Codrington, the Hartford, CT native. "I have great confidence in the ring. I have made the adjustment from amateurs to the pros." • Discuss at the FORUM

Thomas Headlines Hitz Boxing's 'Ramada Rumble'

10/20 - Earlier this year, Chicago's own Chris Thomas came knocking on the door of the cruiserweight division with a stunning second round knockout of highly regarded Rich LaMontagne. On Friday, October 22nd, "Cold Steel" looks to break down the door into the top ten when he fights for the vacant NABA cruiserweight crown in the featured attraction on Hitz Boxing's 'Ramada Rumble' at the Ramada Plaza Hotel in Rosemont.

Tarver-Johnson Unification in the works!

10/19 - Robert Morales of the LA Daily News is reporting today that promoter Dan Goossen of Goossen-Tutor Promotions is in early negotiations with promoter Joe DeGuardi for a title unification between his current fighter, IBF light heavyweight champion Glen Johnson and WBC champion Antonio Tarver. Tarver currently has a bout lined up with WBC #1 contender Paul Briggs on December 18th, but sometime in 2005, Goossen feels his hard work in negotiations could land his fighter Johnson yet another high profile bout. Johnson as you will remember is coming off a September 25th knockout over Roy Jones Jr.

Speaking to Morales, Goossen told the LA Daily News, "We have been working very hard in that regard. We have had some very, very, let's say good, negotiations in trying to make this a reality. This would be a promoter's dream." Goossen likes what he sees and continued by saying, "Tarver gives [heavyweight contender] James [Toney] a run for his money with the verbiage he doles out. And then there's Glen, who after beating Roy [Jones Jr.], said, 'I'm not the best, but I want to fight the best.' When is the last time you heard a fighter say that?" • Discuss at the FORUM

Salem Can't Guarantee Clean Fight with Calzaghe

10/19 - Just days away from his WBO super-middleweight title showdwon with Joe Calzaghe in Edinburgh on Friday, Kabary Salem is expecting a rather filthy fight with the champion. The 36-year old spoke with frankwarren.tv saying, "I have to fight the champion in his home town, I can't be a nice guy, I have to be tough. I believe it is going to be a dirty fight, I'm going to do my best to make it a clean fight but I can't guarantee it." The New York based Salem is coming off a tough split decision loss to Mario Veit for the interim WBO title, a fight which saw Salem deducted two points for head butts. This time around, he feels more ready for the title shot. "I've been working hard in the gym, and I'm not going to let my dream go." • Discuss at the FORUM

Radisson Lands Top Spot with ONE AND A MILLION!
ONE IN A MILLION MAKES NEXT CONTRIBUTION TO THE COMMUNITY

10/19 - Joey Golubic, a Whiting youngster with cerebral palsy, will move closer to a much needed wheelchair lift for his family's van next month. ONE IN A MILLION INC., the Midwest's premiere pro boxing team, announced it will donate a portion of the proceeds from the Nov. 19th Pre-Thanksgiving Showdown to Joey, who will turn 12 years old later this month. One in a Million

Kotelnik wants title shot, Sturm Back Dec. 4th

10/19 - Ukrainian jr. welterweight contender Andreas Kotelnik will fight Frenchman Souleymane M’baye on Thursday, Oct. 21st, in the Palais de Sports in Levallois, France. The fight is billed as a WBA world title eliminator. Kotelnik is currently ranked WBA #5. M’baye is WBA #10. The reigning WBA jr. welterweight champion is Vivian Harris from Guyana. He will defend his title this Saturday in Berlin against German-Turk Oktay Urkal. Either the old or the new champion will face the winner of the Kotelnik-M’baye clash. Former WBO middleweight champ Felix Sturm, 21-1, will be back in the ring on December 4th in Berlin, on the undercard of the European heavyweight championship between Luan Krasniqi and Timo Hoffmann at Estrel Convention Center. The 25-year-old German will fight for the second time since losing a controversial decision to Oscar de la Hoya on June 5. • Discuss at the FORUM

BATTLE AT THE BOAT XXXII: LOVATO-CARPENTER HEADLINE

10/19 - Journeyman super-welterweight Rudy Lovato will face Jeff Carpenter in the 32nd installment of the Emerald Queen Cainos’ Battle at the Boat boxing series, Saturday, October 23, 2004, at the EQC’s I-5 showroom. "I think we’ve matched two very competitive guys and the local boxing fans will be in for some exciting fights," said promoter, Brian Halquist. “The undercard is about as evenly matched as we’ve had in a long time, and in response to public demand, we have added a women’s fight to the card,” Halquist continued. The undercard features Daniel Gonzales vs. Julio Lanzas at super-welterweight, Ted Reiter vs. William Cook at heavyweight, Jose Martinez vs. James Hewey at featherweights and Sharon Gaines vs. Mercedes Mercury at super bantamweight. Tickets are available at the Emerald Queen Casino and all Ticketmaster outlets. Ticket prices are: $75, $40, and $20. Halquist Promotions • Discuss at the FORUM

Hudson Valley Explosion III Nov. 20th

10/19 - Northeast Promotions will be presenting, "Hudson Valley Explosion III", a night of exciting boxing on November 20th at the Mid-Hudson Civic Center in Poughkeepsie, NY. Co-Features include sensation Delvin Rodriguez (12-1-1) vs Henry Humphrey (7-4), Hudson Valley’s own Downtown Leona Brown vs Stephanie George. Plus undefeated Haitian Sensation, Catskills own Lenord Pierre (15-0), Joey Rios (7-0), and Jay Krupp, (4-0). $100 VIP seating is ringside, which includes a private buffet. Floor area seating $52.50, and $27.50 for bleacher reserved seating. You can purchase ticketmaster.com or ticketmaster phone outlet 845-454-3388, after October 22nd. • Discuss at the FORUM

Clottey-Warrick Headline "Broadway Boxing" 10/21

10/19 - Mohegan Sun and DiBella Entertainment will bring "Broadway Boxing," a monthly series featuring New York fighters, back to the Mohegan Sun Arena on Thursday, October 21st. In the main event, former IBA Continental Americas Champion Emmanuel Clottey (21-6) from the Bronx, will battle Michael Warrick (18-1) from Landover, Maryland. Meanwhile, the undercard features Bridgeport, Connecticut native Jaidon Codrington (2-0), Hofstra University student Aneudi Santos (11-2) from Freeport, New York, Ehinomen "Hino" Ehikhamenor (7-0) from Queens, New York and heavyweight Curtis Stevens from Brooklyn, New York, who will make his second pro outing. Tickets are $35.00 and $25.00, and are on sale now by calling tickets.com at 1.800.477.6849 or at any tickets.com outlet. TalkingBoxing.com will cover this fight LIVE at ringside! • Discuss at the FORUM

2004 Will be a Big Year for Boxing’s Big Boys - The Aftermath

by Carl Rice
10/18 - Last year I penned a piece called “2004 Will Be a Big Year for Boxing’s Big Boy”. In that article I predicted that Lennox Lewis would officially retire, Jones v Tyson will take place, Joe Mesi would fight for a title, Wlad would lose, while Vitali would rise to the top, that James Toney would beat Jameel McCline and then go on to fight for a title, and Evander Holyfield will officially retire. Some of those have come true, and some of those have totally fall off the map, but it has been entertaining to watch. Let’s go through each of these to see how I either called it or was totally off base. »» much more on the heavyweight scene

Taylor-Joppy Likely for December

10/18 - In what would provide boxing's top middleweight prospect with his sternest bout to date, 2000 Olympic medallist and current WBC #3 ranked contender Jermain 'Bad Intentions' Taylor, 21-0, will battle former three-time WBA middleweight champion William Joppy, 34-3-1, on December 4th at a venue to be decided, however, New York's Madison Square Garden is the front runner. 26-year old Taylor is coming off a 9th round TKO win over Raul Marquez in defense of his WBC Continental Americas Middleweight Title this past June. Joppy had annouced his retirement after a 12-round decision loss at the hands of world champ Bernard Hopkins in December of 2003, but looks to get back in the thick of things at 160-pound weight class. The Taylor-Joppy contest would land on an HBO telecast as well. • Discuss at the FORUM

Team Arnaoutis: "It's a Matter of Class"

10/16 - Mike Michael, advisor to Cestus Management's junior welterweight sensation Mighty Mike Arnaoutis, had plenty to say when questioned about Arnaoutis' ShoBox date with Jesse Feliciano, set to air live on Friday, October 22 on Showtime.

"This Feliciano, where did they find him? This kid is fit, he's strong, he comes to fight, but he has no business standing across the ring from Mighty Mike. It's simply a matter of class. My kid is a pedigree fighter, a different class of fighter, a fighter from the old school. He's got the skills, the discipline, the charisma, he's got the whole package. Next Friday, the boxing fans are going to see what happens when you throw a future champion in the ring with a future journeyman."

'Bad' Chad Dawson BACK Oct. 29th

10/16 - World Boxing Council Youth middleweight champ 'Bad' Chad Dawson (14-0, 10 KOs) returns to the ring October 29 in the 10-round co-feature on “The Dream Continues,” headlined by the 12-round IBU World super middleweight title fight between champion “Scott “The Sandman” Pemberton (28-3-1, 23 KOs) and challenger Jim “The Smooth One” Crawford (40-7-2, 2NC, 17 KOs), at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut.

TalkingBoxing Tidbits
Harrison Gets Smalls; Gatti-Leija Coming Together; Foreman on 11/13

10/15 - WBO 126-lb champ Scott Harrison will now face NABO champ Tiger Smalls in Scotland on short notice. "He's going to have to get pass the long jabs. I'm a complete fighter and I take pride in what I do," said a confident Smalls. Harrison must remained focused on this late-replacement if he wants a shot at unifying. "The super-fights against Marco Antonio Barrera, Manny Pacquiao, Juan Marquez and Injin Chi are out there so there can be no room for slip ups as I have found out in the past," said Harrison. »»» USA Today is reporting that WBC jr. welterweight champion Arturo Gatti will face tough as nails veteran Jesse James Leija on January 29th on HBO. IF Gatti can best Leija, there is potential for a next-summer PPV bout against pound for pound best Floyd Mayweather Jr., who will fight a 'TBA' on January 22nd. »»» Undefeated jr. middleweight prospect Yuri Foreman, 15-0, will be fight on the November 13th boxing card at Madison Square Garden in New York City, his promoter Cedric Kushner said yesterday. Foreman was to fight last night, but was pulled off the card when there were insufficient funds for the purse. • Discuss at the FORUM

Lucas Returns in December 10/15 - Being reported by the Canadian Press' Bill Beacon, former WBC super-middleweight champ Eric Lucas, 36-6-3, will make his return to the ring on December 3rd at the Bell Centre against journeyman Tony Menefee, 75-20-1. Since a knockout loss at the hands of Australian Danny Green last December, Lucas has become the owner of the promotional company InterBox, which will promote the upcoming fight. "If I do well in this fight, I may ask to speed up the process because I'm anxious to fight for a world title again," Lucas said.

Jones Wants Time Off, Not Retirement

10/15 - It was just last May before his rematch with current light-heavyweight champion Antonio Tarver that Roy Jones Jr. was still the pound for pound best fighter on the planet, however since then, two consecutive knockout losses have the former 4-division champion thinking about an 8-month to a year hiatus rather than retirement. "Nothing has been decided about when he will return to boxing. My feeling, he's very competitive. He's never envisioned ending his career on two consecutive losses," Jones spokesman Brad Jacobs told the AFP yesterday. For the soon to be 36-year old Jones, who is performing his duties well as an HBO analyst, he looks no further than the recent successful return of Felix Trinidad to the ring after a two year layoff. Jones covered the October 2nd Trinidad versus Ricardo Mayorga bout in New York and noted that Trinidad looked better than before, maybe something he will attempt himself. "Roy was at the fight and said, 'This guy looked better than before he left'," Jacobs added. Whatever Jones decides, he will stand as one of our generation's best. • Discuss at the FORUM

Ruiz-Golota; One of two heavyweight title fights Nov. 13th
10/15 - Two world heavyweight titles and two former world heavyweight champions will be featured in four heavyweight bouts during an HBO Pay-Per-View extravaganza live from Madison Square Garden on Nov. 13 that is being promoted by Don King Productions in association with Fight Night and Madison Square Garden.

Polish strongman Andrew Golota figures to give reigning World Boxing Association heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz one of his toughest challenges ever and Chris Byrd will risk his International Boxing Federation crown opposing mandatory challenger Jameel “Big Time” McCline.

Campas, St. John Featured on CMXSports TONIGHT!

10/15 - Now into its fourth full month of production, "CMX Boxeo de Campeone", presented by CMXsports and promoted by Guilty Boxing, returns TONIGHT! Live from Casino Del Sol in Tucson, AZ, former IBF jr. middleweight champ Yori Boy Campas, 83-6, battles tough Texan, Gabriel Holguin, 17-3, for the vacant WBC "Mundo Espanol" super-middleweight title. Playboy pin-up girl Mia St. John, 35-4-1, will fight in a special attraction four-round lightweight fight against Janae Archuleta. CMXSPORTS.COM :: Discuss at the FORUM

TalkingBoxing Tidbits
Lacy in Rematch; Navarro Title Bound; Bredahl Retires; Dec. 4th Shapes Up

10/14 - After a solid performance, stopping top-contender Syd Vanderpool for the vacant IBF title, Jeff "Left Hook" Lacy is ready to unify the belts, but first up will be a mandatory defense in a rematch against Vitali Tsypko on December 4th. Their first bout in June ended in a 'no-contest'....DiBella Entertainment's jr. bantamweight star Jose Navarro, 20-0, puts his unbeaten record on the line against Miguel Delvalle, 8-8, in the main event this Friday night, October 15th from the Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino in Eagle Pass, Texas. If Navarro, who is ranked #1 WBC, #2 WBO, #3 IBF and #4 WBA, emerges victorious, he will take on Katsushuige Kawashima for the WBC jr. bantamweight title on January 3rd, 2005 in Tokyo....WBA bantamweight champ Johnny Bredahl of Denmark is retiring with an amazing 55-2 record because of increasing injuries with one of his hands...It looks like the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas will host a Top Rank event on December 4th featuring Jose Luis Castillo taking on Joel Casamayor over 12-rounds and IBF super bantamweight champ Israel Vazquez defending against Artyom Simonyan. The pair of exciting bouts will be aired on Showtime. • Discuss at the FORUM

Tito’s Back (but let’s not get carried away)

by Carl Rice
10/14 - So I’ve finally seen the fight between Felix Trinidad and Ricardo Mayorga, and I have to say that it was the slugfest that everyone said it was. Tito looked sharp; he seemed to have all of the snap he had on his punches as when he left, the power and technique is still there, and the fighting spirit is still there. And no one can ever say that Mayorga can’t take a shot; I was totally surprised that he took Tito’s punches that well. In fact, if Tito had just went to the head, he probably wouldn’t have knocked Mayorda out.

But in keeping up with the cliche in boxing, take out the body and the head will follow. However, let’s not get down on our knees yet for Trinidad, as there is still a number of subjects that need to be pointed out and questions that need to be answered. »» much more

Take in that fresh air at heavyweight, Klitschko-Williams Official!

10/14 - With all the makings of the best heavyweight fight of the year, the upcoming WBC heavyweight tilt between champion Vitali Klitschko, 34-2, and challenger Danny Williams, 32-3, was made official today in London. The bout will take place on Saturday, December 11th in New York, with Madison Square Garden as the probable host of the title fight. "Williams destroyed my dreams to fight Mike Tyson," said Vitali, "and I was impressed with him. This fight will be very, very interesting, but I'm planning on being a champion for a long time." Williams, who is coming off a career best knockout win over Tyson in July said, "to fight in the place that has had so many great fighters -- Ali, Dempsey. I'm going to make the most of it." Former champ Lennox Lewis is reaching out to offer advice to Williams to which Klitschko himself said, "It didn't help Corrie Sanders. Let's see if it helps Danny Williams, but I doubt it." • Discuss at the FORUM

Pemberton Impressed by Lacy, Looking for His Shot
"everytime I go out I give 100% to overcome and be victorious"
by Julius Stecker
10/13 - WBC #3 ranked super-middleweight and curent NABF champion Scott Pemberton, 28-3-1, was very impressed by Jeff “Left Hook” Lacy's performance against Syd “The Jewel” Vanderpool a few weeks ago for the vacant IBF title. In his words he said, “Lacy looked awesome.” While there is nothing but admiration for Lacy, Pemberton feels he has paid his dues and he is looking to add his name to the best in the super-middleweight division.

Pemberton is taking a step in that direction Oct 29th when he takes on tough journeyman, James Crawford (40-7-1) at the Foxwoods Resort in Mashantucket, CT. Talkingboxing caught up with Scott to get his view before the upcoming fight. »» much more with "The Sandman" :: Discuss at the FORUM

Lau: "the minute I hit the rankings you better not run"

10/13 - Welterweight Hicklet Lau lost a December 2003 battle to Kermit Cintron, a bout which saw extreme weather conditions effect both fighters. Since then, Cintron scooped up the WBO interim title and has said he only wants top 10 Ring magazine ranked fighters. Lau is coming off a tough 12-round decision loss to veteran contender Ray Oliveira. Her is Lau's response. "In regards to Kermit Cintron's comments, I'd like to defend myself by stating that I too had to battle 38 degree weather, which is not common in the state of Florida as it is in Philadelphia. Number two, I was not senseless as you say I was after the right hand you landed and then the other punch you threw on the back of my neck, which is not legal in boxing. And, if it makes Cintron feel better, I will grant you the knock out. Now as for me calling you out, you will never hear me do that unless I'm in the top ten world rankings, but do remeber this, the minute I hit the rankings you better not run. So I expect you to keep your word about fighting me. And when that day comes I dont wanna hear no flu excuses." »» Cintron's Response • Discuss at the FORUM

Mundine Nears Title Shot, Eastman-Taylor Doesn't Look Good

10/13 - Former WBA 168-lb champ Anthony Mundine scored a 3rd round technical knockout over Juane Dowling today to take a step closer to regaining the WBA title he lost to champion Manny Siaca in May. Mundine, 22-2, dropped Dowling with a booming right and followed up by putting him through the ropes in the third frame as the referee halted the bout. Mundine will face the winner of the November 12th bout between the WBA champ Manny Siaca and challenger Mads Larsen....WBC #1 ranked middleweight Howard Eastman and his promoter Mick Hennessy have reasons to be worried about their potential face off with top prospect Jermain Taylor. After winning the purse-bid for Eastman-Taylor at the recent WBC convention, Hennessy is now learning that Taylor wants to fight former WBA champ William Joppy in December and is pushing for the WBC to sanction this bout instead. "Fighting Joppy would just be plain wrong. If Taylor doesn't want to go the championship route his team should have pulled him out of the purse bid before it took place," said Hennessy. However, Hennessy is claiming that the WBC will rule that Eastman will become the mandatory challenger if Taylor pulls out. • Discuss at the FORUM

'Trainer of the Year' Laurels at Stake for Birmingham and Goossen
Pair of Trainers prepare Winky Wright, Shane Mosley for Rematch!

10/12 - Winky Wright and Sugar Shane Mosley are not the only ones with a lot riding on the line when they meet Saturday, November 20, at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, in their world super welterweight championship rematch, promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, LLC, and televised by HBO (9:45 P.M. ET / 9:45 P.M. PT.) Dan Birmingham and Joe Goossen, trainers for Wright and Mosley, respectively, are both vying for "Trainer of the Year" honors as they conclude a spectacular 2004.

Birmingham, the only trainer Wright, 47-3 (25 KOs), has ever had, including two tours as a world champion, was the architect of Wright's historic March 13 victory over Mosley. Wright won a unanimous decision to not only become the division's first undisputed world champion in 29 years, but the division's first-ever three-belt world champion (WBC/WBA/IBF).

Comcast Features Kodzoev vs. Cesar De La Cruz

10/12 - CN8, The Comcast Network gets in the ring, airing an exclusive two hour boxing card from Philadelphia's New Alhambra Sports and Entertainment Center on SUNDAY, October 17, 9:00-11:00 PM/ET. The main event features a 10-round jr. middleweight battle between Aslanbek Kodzoev, 13-1-2, and Julio Cesar De La Cruz, 15-3-1, followed by an 8-round semifinal between jr. welterweights Chucky T, of Philadelphia and Jimmy LeBlanc, of Boston, MA. • Discuss at the FORUM

Sturm Building Momentum Towards Hopkins Showdown

10/12 - Former WBO middleweight champion Felix Sturm recently posed for over 10-hours for photos published in the German magazine 'MAX'. Sturm beat on slaps of meat in the style of the "Rocky" movies. This past spring, Sylvester Stallone, who invented this unusual training method in his movie from 1976, offered Sturm to star in his own TV reality show, 'The Contender'. Sturm, however, prefered to entirely focus on his preparations for his summer fight against Oscar de la Hoya. Sturm’s great performance proved that he was right, even though he lost a highly controversial decision. Next year, however, could be reparation time for the 25-year-old German who scored a 12-round decision over Richard Frazier on September 18th. It’s because undisputed middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins recently stated that he favors Sturm as next challenger. • Discuss at the FORUM

McCline Open Workout Tomorrow!!

10/12 - Jameel "Big Time" McCline, the IBF's top-rated heavyweight contender, will square off against champ Chris Byrd on Saturday, November 13th, at Madison Square Garden and gets ready for his title fight with an open sparring session at Olympus Gym, 343 Main Street, in Hackensack, New Jersey, tomorrow, October 13th, at 1:00 PM. McCline now fighting out of Clifton, NJ, boasts an impressive 31-3-3 ring record, with 19 victories coming by way of knockout. McCline is promoted by Cedric Kushner, managed by Alan Wartski and trained by Jimmy Glenn. McCline is the top rated IBF contender, and ranked 2nd by the WBO, and 6th by the WBC and WBA. • Discuss at the FORUM

Sanchez-Mtagwa, Beaupierre Set for Oct. 14th Show

10/12 - USBA Middleweight contender Dorian Beaupierre's Oct. 14 opponent will be Philadelphia's Jacob Rodriguez while former welterweight prospect John Molnar, who is returning after a two-year hiatus, will face Philadelphian Michael Melvin, it was announced today by promoter Andre Kut. The two bouts are part of KEA Boxing's spectacular night of boxing in which Agapito Sanchez will square off against the durable Rogers 'The Bull' Mtagwa in what will surely be a tough test for the former WBO Jr. Featherweight champion.

Heat Up the Forum: The Top 10 Pound for Pound

by Carl Rice
10/11 - There have been several changes in the boxing world lately, and these changes require my pound for pound list to be changed. Some of the names are new, some are renewed, and some that people are accustomed to seeing are now gone. Some people may be surprised by the list, but most will not argue with who’s on the list, even if they disagree with the order. Without any further delay...

#1 Bernard Hopkins
There aren’t many people that will argue with the current top dog in boxing heading this list. He has been undefeated since losing to Roy Jones in 1993 and even though some will balk at some of the competition, it cannot be denied that he took on all comers to the middleweight division. If his pounding of Trinidad in 2001 didn’t put him up there, surely his body blow KO of Oscar De La Hoya cemented it there. »» much more from top writer Carl Rice :: Discuss at the FORUM

Cintron: "Only guys ranked in the top 10 by Ring Magazine"

10/11 - Coming off an 8th round TKO win over Teddy Reid in July for the WBO interim Welterweight Title, rising star Kermit "The Killer" Cintron is getting his fair share of fight requests, most notably a recent challenge by top veteran Ray Oliveira. Cintron has returned to the gym to work on his strength and conditioning with coach Joe Pastore as he allows his hand to heal, which was injured in the Reid bout. While Cintron anticipates WBO champ Antonio Margarito's next move, he wants to remain active only against top 10 fighters at 147. Kermit offers his take on his future...

In response to statements made by both Hicklet Lau and Ray Oliveira, first I will address Hicklet Lau. I knocked him senseless with one punch [12-12-2003]. To say that stoppage was premature is a ridiculous statement. Watch the tape. Lau was hurt and hurt bad. If that fight were allowed to continue he may have found himself waking up in the hospital. »» much more from Kermit Cintron

When the Wolves Come...Trinidad's Next Move

by Andres Antonio Carriedo
10/8 - When a kingpin leaves his throne the wolves come knocking at the door. The most impressionable and probably visibly impressive way to reestablish dominance is to fight fire with fire and win in dominant fashion. Felix 'Tito' Trinidad did just that this past Saturday night. His 8th round TKO victory over Ricardo Mayorga can only be described as a power punching masterpiece. Tito is back and back in a big way.

Prior to the night of October 2nd, Mayorga was thought by many to be the biggest, baddest wolf at Tito’s door. Many fans and experts described him as “the most dangerous opponent” Tito could possibly have taken on, short of undisputed middleweight champion and lone Trinidad conqueror Bernard Hopkins. Against Mayorga, however, Trinidad dispelled any doubts about his superiority in the game of brutal fistic warfare. Mayorga proved that he has heart and is a tough SOB, but Tito left no questions as to who is the tougher and the stronger of the two unanswered. »» much more

'Hard Rock Rumble' on October 28th
Ikeke-Arostegui, Castillo-Releford to Headline HBO Latino's “Boxeo De Oro”

10/8 - There's a new middleweight contender in town, and nobody wants to fight him.

But on Thursday, October 28, live from the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida, Kingsley Ikeke will finally get to show the entire nation what all the fuss is about when he battles hard nosed power puncher Rene Arostegui in the ten round main event of HBO Latino's hit series “Oscar De La Hoya Presents Boxeo De Oro.”

Ray Oliveira Calls Out Kermit Cintron!
10/8 - For many years “Sucra” Ray Oliveira (47-9-2, 22 KOs) was a 140-pounder that many of the world’s top junior welterweights avoided like the plague and now, as the self proclaimed gatekeeper of the welterweight division, the 37-year-old Oliveira has challenged unbeaten Kermit Cintron (24-0, 22 KOs).

TalkingBoxing Tidbits
ULRICH OUT; TARVER-BRIGGS PURSE BID; DELISLE-WOODS FOR #2

10/8 - Due to a heavy cold, Thomas Ulrich is unable to defend his European 175-lb title in Braunschweig on October 16th. Ulrich told Universum Box-Promotion head coach Fritz Sdunek he won't be healthy and fit enough until next Saturday. Therefore, the entire fight night is cancelled. Undisputed 175-lb champ Antonio Tarver will defend his WBC title against Australian #1 ranked contender Paul Briggs on an upcoming Don King event. King won the purse bid for $2.7 million at the WBC Convention in Thailand and should take place within the next 90 days. In an official IBF 175-lb eliminator on October 24th, Australian Jason Delisle fights Clinton Woods in England for the #2 ranking. Nailer said, "I have had plenty of time to prepare for this one and have managed to get the best possible sparring I can over the past 2 weeks including sessions with WBC Interim Champ Danny Green – IBF # 1 Sam Soliman – Nader Hamden – WBC # 7 Cruiser Glen Kelly .. all class sparring, some lighter, some heavier and taller." Jason will continue to spar until leaving for England on the 15th giving him over a week to acclimatise to the local cold temperatures and adjust to the time difference. • Discuss at the FORUM

Tyson Wins 10/7 - New York - Former heavyweight champ Mike Tyson, who is coimg off a KO loss to Danny Williams on July 31st and an $8 million dollar payday, won court approval of his new bankrupty petition. Tyson, who earned in excess of $200 million in his career, has been order to pay $36.6 million of the $44.1 million he currently owes to his creditors. Tszyu Ready! 10/7 - Just weeks away from his title bout on Nov. 6th with Sharmba Mitchell, champ Kostya Tszyu spoke about the fight to be held at Glendale Arena, in Phoenix, AZ. "My training is progressing well and I am very pleased. I have no doubt that I will be 100% ready for November 6." RUIZ-URBINA on CMX 10/7 - Now into its fourth full month of production, 'CMX Boxeo de Campeones' - presented by CMXsports and promoted by Guilty Boxing -- returns this Friday, October 8th...

Valuev-Vidoz for WBA I'ntl Title 10/9

10/7 - This weekend in Erfurt, Germany on October 9th, WBA #11 heavyweight Nikolay Valuev, 37-0, of Russia will battle Paolo Vidoz, 17-1, of Italy for the vacant WBA Int'l heavyweight title left vacant by Vitali Klitschko earlier this year. Vidoz was to face Steffen Nielsen with the winner to face Nikolay Valuev, but due to Nielsen's last minute illness it had to be postponed. The winner must face Nielsen within 90 days. On the under-card, undefeated WBA int'l 168-lb champ Vitaly Tsypko, 13-0, takes on Lawrence Chapman, 18-1-1. More at the official site, www.wbaeurope.com. • Discuss at the FORUM

Cotto Could Face Corley in December

10/7 - Being reported by Carlos Narvaez, former WBO champ DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley is one of the potential foes that newly crowned WBO 140-lb champ Miguel Cotto could face on December 11th from Madison Square Garden in New York. "DeMarcus is one of the names that are being mentioned to face Cotto in New York", Evangelist, Cotto's coach, told Narvaez. "Another [option we were looking into] was mentioned, but he already is doing a campaign in 147-pounds [Diosbelys Hurtado]," he added. Cotto is coming off a knockout win over Kelson Pinto on September 11th, while Corley lost a 12-round unanimous decision to Floyd Mayweather in May. For more go to El Vocero • Discuss at the FORUM

Veit to battle with Brewer on Nov. 6

10/7 - German super middleweight contender Mario Veit will defend his WBO interim world title against former world champion Charles Brewer on November 6 at erdgas arena of Riesa, Germany.

Veit, 44-1 (22), won the WBO title on May 8 in an action packed and close fight against US based Egypt Kabary Salem with a split decision over twelve rounds. At that time the World Boxing Organization expected WBO 168 lb champion Joe Calzaghe to vacate his belt because the Welchman had a world title fight scheduled at light heavyweight. But the announced fight between Calzaghe and Johnson didn’t happen. As a result Mario Veit remained interim world champion and will now fight WBO #1 ranked top contender Charles Brewer.

Latin Showdown in Chicago Nears

10/7 - Further details of LATIN SHOWDOWN, Chicagoland's biggest professional boxing card of 2004 have been announced as Dominic Pesoli's 8 Count Productions and Bob Arum's Top Rank Incorporated along with Miller Lite returns to Hawthorne Race Course on Friday, October 15th. This marks the second straight month that Telefutura's internationally broadcast Friday night boxing series originates from the South Side of Chicago.

"The Dream Continues" Press Conference

10/7 - Tempers flared at yesterday's "The Dream Continues" press conference between IBU middleweight champ Scott "The Sandman" Pemberton and challenger James Crawford at Dave & Buster’s in Providence Place mall. "The Dream Continues," promoted by CES, will be held Friday night over, October 29 at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut.

Talking Boxing with DANNY WILLIAMS
"by the time [Vitali] Klitschko comes round I’ll be 100% fitter"
by Dave Crellin
10/06 - On 30th July this year British heavyweight Danny Williams put another nail in the coffin of Mike Tyson’s career with a fourth round knockout. It was the most significant career win for Williams, who has long been regarded as the most talented British heavyweight. Last week it was confirmed that his next challenge would be against champion Vitali Klitschko for the WBC title at Madison Square Gardens on December 11th.

Danny very kindly took time out from training to talk to TalkingBoxing.com’s Dave Crellin about what post-Tyson, pre-Klitschko life is like and to give his perspective on his future career, that of Tyson, and how he thinks British boxing is shaping up as a whole. »» much more with Danny Williams...a must read

Mayorga: "I will not continue fighting"

10/6 - A Nicaraguan newspaper is reporting that former welterweight champ Ricardo Mayorga, coming off a valiant effort in a knockout loss to Felix Trinidad this past weekend, will retire from boxing. Mayorga said, "I will not continue fighting. I’m retiring. I thought about it and discussed it with my family, so this is serious. They knew it, but it is now that I make it public."

Mayorga continued, "Of course I'm going back, I don't run from nobody in the ring and I won't run from nobody in life," Mayorga said. "I will face the situation because I know that I am innocent." Mayorga could be passing over numerous big-money fights with a retirement, we will keep you posted. • Discuss at the FORUM

Pemberton, Dawson Featured on Oct. 29th at Foxwoods

10/6 - Exciting super-middleweight Scott “The Sandman” Pemberton, 28-3-1, puts his IBU title and WBC #3 rating on the line against former title challenger James Crawford, 40-7-2, on October 29th at Foxwoods Casino in Mashantucket, CT. In the 10-round co-feature unbeaten “Bad” Chad Dawson defends his WBC Youth middleweight belt against undefeated Darnell Wilson. Five exciting undercard fights will soon be announced. Tickets, priced at $45-$100 are available by calling CES at 401.724.2253 or Foxwoods’ box office at 800.200.2882. Don't miss our chat with Scott Pemberton on October 13th at 9PM. more info • Discuss at the FORUM

Trinidad Stops Mayorga in Eighth, wants Hopkins

by Angel Rodriguez - Ringside
10/3 - The Madison Square Garden crowd cheered Felix Trinidad’s return this past Saturday as a Las Vegas crowd would if Elvis had just jumped through the roof on a Harley Davidson motorcycle, back flipped onto the stage, and started kung fu fighting in a diamond encrusted jumpsuit.

A crowd of over 17,000 predominantly Puerto Rican spectators filled the Mecca this past Saturday to see if “Tito” could come back from a nearly three year absence to trample a tramp and rescue a sport whose stars are getting knocked off faster the Keyser Sose iced his glamorous crew in the movie, “The Usual Suspects.” »» post-fight ringside report | HUGE PHOTO GALLERY FROM BILL EMES

Vegas Sky: Boxing Returns to Caesars Palace

by Joe Souza - ringside
10/3 - Boxing was in fine form last night at the Caesar's Palace. There were title fights, knockouts, brawls and of course questionable calls. A packed and enthusiastic crowd filled and watched "the other" boxing card in the newly opened outdoor venue at the beautiful Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada. »» post-fight ringside report along with photos

The Return of Felix Trinidad

by Frank Gonzalez Jr.
10/3 - Saturday night at Madison Square Garden in New York City, Felix Trinidad returned to the ring after a two and a half year layoff and knocked out Ricardo Mayorga after eight rounds in the most exciting slugfest of the year.

Mayorga (his hair dyed red this time), started fast and tried to knock Tito out early with big haymakers that at times caught him. Trinidad proved he could take Mayorga's best shots. Mayorga even offered Trinidad the customary three free shots to his chin, which he does to demoralize opponents by showing that they can't hurt him. In the case of Tito Trinidad, that was a big, big mistake. Photos by Bill Emes/TalkingBoxing.com. »» post-fight report from Sharkie's Machine | HUGE PHOTO GALLERY FROM BILL EMES

Headbutt Ends Klitschko Comeback Early

by Coyote Duran
10/3 - Wladimir Klitschko's (43-3 with 39 KOs) return in the main event of Showtime's triple header last night in Las Vegas was supposed to be, in a way, his chance at retribution. However, more questions were asked than answered as the Ukrainian with the questionable chin performed rather tentatively against DaVarryl Williamson (20-3 with 17 KOs). In the 10-round heavyweight feature, it was make or break for the two academically brilliant men, Klitschko, 28, being a doctor in sports medicine, while Williamson, 36, is a holder of a Master's degree in administrative services. »» much more on Klitschko-Williamson

Ouma Defeats Phillips for IBF 154 pound Crown

by Coyote Duran
10/3 - To the experienced fight fan, rematches normally don't live up to their fistic predecessors. So none should have been surprised if the second meeting between IBF Junior Middleweight titleholder Verno Phillips (38-10-1 with 20 KOs) and challenger Kassim "The Dream" Ouma (20-1-1 with 13 KOs) was to be no exception. What transpired, however, was a somewhat entertaining, if not pulse-pounding, scrap last night from Caesers Palace in Las Vegas. »» much more on Ouma-Phillips

Tripleheader Explosions: Klitschko, Ouma and Lacy Score Wins

10/3 - Former WBO heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko survived a fourth-round knockdown and a nasty cut to escape with a fifth-round technical split decision over former NABF heavyweight titleholder DaVarryl Williamson Saturday on SHOWTIME. The fight went to the scorecards after Klitschko was unable to continue after the fifth round due to a deep gash over his right eye that was caused by an accidental head butt.

Hatton Stops Stewart 10/2 - From Manchester, in an IBF 140-lb eliminator for a shot at the Kostya Tszyu-Sharmba Mitchell winner, Ricky Hatton dropped challanger Mike Stewart twice in the first round and then stopped the game Stewart in the 5th with a booming left hook.

Showtime/HBO Weights for Oct. 2nd Bouts

10/2 - HBO - Legendary champion Felix "Tito" Trinidad weighed in at 157.75-lbs for his "Back with a Vengeance" main-event against former welter champion Ricardo Mayorga who weighed in at 158. Also Zab Judah, 147, fights Wayne Martell, 146.25. Travis Simms, 153.5, came in over the limit at 155, but finally got under the jr. middleweight limit in his WBA title defense against Bronco Mckart, 154 and WBA jr. flyweight champ Rosendo Alvarez, 111.5, lost his titles on the scales as he could not make the 108-lb limit. His opponent, Bebis Mendoza, 107.5, still has a shot at the title.

Showtime - The Showtime tripleheader, "Oktoberfest" weigh-in results are in along with photos. Former heavyweight champ Wladimir Klitschko tipped the scales at 244 for his bout with DaVarryl Williamson, 218. In the vacant IBF 168-lb title fight, Syd Vanderpool, 167, battles Jeff Lacy, 168 and IBF 154-lb champ Verno Phillips, 152.5, defends against Kassim Ouma, 152.

Klitschko, Williamson Chase Away Disappointments

by Monty McMahon
10/1 - Saturday's heavyweight bout between former WBO champion Wladimir Klitschko (42-3, 39 KOs) and former NABF champion DaVarryl Williamson (20-2, 17 KOs) will be the beginning of the long climb back to the top for one man and perhaps the end of a once-promising career for the other.

Both fighters are trying to chase away the memories of disappointing defeats in high-profile fights. »» much more | Q&A Williamson

Attacking Myths and Life's More Important Questions

by Andres Antonio Carriedo
10/1 - Myths can be associated with every aspect of life. Boxing fans come into contact with myths just as every other human being on this Earth does. We never experience any true harm from these myths, but our ability to interpret simple truths about our favorite sport definitely gets hampered as a result of our belief in these myths. I intend to attack a few of the myths that have clouded our collective judgment over the years and hopefully make some sense of some of life's more important questions, such as "Who is going to win Trinidad-Mayorga?" and "What is going to be the best fight on October 2nd?" »» much more from Andres

Final Thoughts from Showtime's Tripleheader Event

10/1 - Our eyes begin to focus on this upcoming weekend's tripleheader on Showtime featuring some of boxing' biggest stars. With the likes of former champ Wladimir Klitschko, IBF #1 ranked contender Kassim Ouma and top rated super-middleweights Syd Vanderpool and Jeff Lacy, this action-packed televised card is a must see! »» - Interviews with Williamson | Lacy | Vanderpool

Trinidad vs. Mayorga: The Prediction

by Richard McManus
10/1 - On Saturday night Felix "Tito" Trinidad (41-1, 34KO) will lace up the gloves one more time in a comeback fight that offers the prospect of danger and intrigue for the boxing public. His opponent is the tough and rugged brawler Ricardo "El Matador" Mayorga (27-4, 23KO). The fight is at the Middleweight level.

It also offers the boxing power structure a chance at another Pay Per View fight card a mere two weeks removed from the last major Pay Per View. They must think we're made of money.

It's Trinidad's first fight in nearly two and a half years. His last fight was a four round blowout of the guardian of the third tier, Hassine Cherifi. Mayorga's last fight came as he won a unanimous 10 round decision against the extremely limited Eric Mitchell. Mitchell boasts losses on his record to the likes of Dwain Williams (24-5). What does this have to do with Trinidad? We'll have to see. »» excellent pre-fight breakdown of Trinidad-Mayorga

Harrison and Kebede Meet at Glasgow Press Conference

by Curtis McCormick
10/1 - WBO Featherweight Champion Scott Harrison sent an intimidating message to undefeated challenger Samuel Kebede at Wednesday's press conference held in the downtown Marriott Hotel in Glasgow, Scotland. The press conference, chaired by Harrison's manager and consultant to Harrison's promoter Frank Warren, was going smoothly until Harrison predicted the fight would not go the distance and that he was unconcerned with Kebede as an opponent.

TalkingBoxing Tidbits

10/1 - European heavyweight champ Luan Krasniqi will defend his crown on December 4th in Berlin against Timo Hoffmann. The November 13th Don King promoted heavyweight event becomes official this weekend. John Ruiz defends his WBA strap against Andrew Golota and IBF champ Chris Byrd defends against Jameel McCline. Also on tap are a pair of fomer undisputed champions, with wins leading leading to future title fights. Hasim Rahman battles Kali Meehan and Evander Holyfield battles contender Larry Donald. Thursday night results from the Manhattan Center in New York had undefeated prospect Sechew Powell defeating George Armenta over 10-rounds by wide scores of 99-91, 100-89 and 99-90 and undefeated lightweight Koba Gogoladze taking an 8-round unanimous decision over Marteze Logan by scores of 79-72, 78-73 and 80-71. WBC 190-lb champ Wayne Braithwaite will not be fighting on the upcoming Trinidad-Mayorga undercard. Mormeck was to face WBA champ Jean-Marc Mormeck, but Mormeck injured his hand and the bout was called off. • Discuss at the FORUM

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