Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Boxing

at 2:38 AM ·

Lenroy Thomas Ready For Hometown Bout This Friday Night

TAMPA, FL (February 16, 2010) Sensational heavyweight prospect Lenroy “TNT” Thomas is primed and ready for battle this Friday night in his hometown of Tampa, Florida, in one of the feature bouts of “TRIPLE-HEADER IN TAMPA” at the A La Carte Event Pavilion, presented by TKO Boxing Promotions and Fight Night Productions. The 24 year old Thomas, guided by award winning trainer Dan Birmingham, brings a record of 14-1-0 with eight knockouts into the six round battle with Texas based Homero “EL OSO” Fonseca, 8-2-2 (2KO’s).

Boxing State of the Union 2010 (Light Heavyweight)

By Karim ‘Kato’ Godfrey - With the heavyweight division lacking any real excitement, limited to no television coverage of the top 10 boxers in the Cruiserweight division, the lighter weights have been forced to pull the brunt of the workload and keep the casual boxing fans happy. The real ‘hardcore’ boxing fans would tune in to see Thai midgets duke it out in the squared circle if it were available. However, since the hardcore fans aren’t the majority, promoters should make better matchups in order to bring back those casual fans.

Robert Guerrero Vacates Title As His Wife Battles Cancer

LOS ANGELES, February 16 - Two-Division World Champion Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero, the current IBF Junior Lightweight World Title holder, announced today that he is relinquishing his title in order to care for his wife Casey, who is currently battling leukemia. "It is with great regret that I am relinquishing the junior lightweight championship of the world that I, along with my team, worked so hard to capture," said the 26-year old Guerrero. "I feel that it is in the best interest of the sport and the fans that I care so deeply for to give someone else a chance to fulfill their dream of becoming a World Champion. I am now focused on the love of my life, my wife Casey, as undoubtedly we face the greatest opponent of our life, cancer. Whatever the outcome, our faith in Jesus Christ will get us through. Thank you for the prayers and support. God bless..

News: Rojas vs Espadas; Mijares Injured

World Boxing Council featherweight champion Elio "The Kid" Rojas will make his first title defense against WBC No. 3-ranked Guty Espadas on Saturday at Paliforum Zamna in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico. Cancun Boxing and Don King Productions are promoting the event, which has been branded "The Kukulcan Battle at Yucatan, Mexico." The same firms promoted the highly successful 2008 WBC heavyweight championship match between Samuel "The Nigerian Nightmare" Peter and Oleg Maskaev in Cancun. Rojas (21-1, 13 KOs), 27, a native of the Dominican Republic now fighting out of Brooklyn, N.Y., arrived in Merida late last week to make final preparations for Saturday's match.

Oliver McCall Arrested - The End Of The Road For "The Atomic Bull?"

by James Slater - Father and son duo Oliver and Elijah McCall were all set to box together on another card tonight, in Hollywood, Florida. But, as some fans may have already read today, McCall Senior, the former WBC heavyweight champion, was arrested over the weekend in Fort Lauderdale - for three offences: possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia and violation of parole.

So now, young Elijah will fight tonight (against Dieuly Aristilde) but his father will not. 44-year-old McCall has had his share of troubles in the past, troubles that have been well publicised.

Can Scott Lawton Defeat The Lethal-Punching Leva Kirakosyan?

by James Slater - A fascinating fight that will decide the vacant European super-featherweight title takes place this coming Friday night in Staffordshire, UK. Fighting on a Hatton Promotions bill will be local man Scott Lawton, the former English lightweight champion, and Russia's former European belt holder at 130-pounds, Leva Kirakosyan.

Carl Froch On Kessler Fight: "This Will Be A Great Fight And A Great British Victory!"

Carl Frochby James Slater - Reigning WBC super-middleweight king Carl Froch had a tough enough fight ahead of him simply by way of having to face Denmark's Mikkel Kessler, period. Now, however, with the April 24th fight taking place in Herning, Denmark, "The Cobra" is sure to face one heullva hostile crowd. Unbeaten Froch is well aware of this, though, and he says he is not overly concerned; so sure is he of victory.

The fight, the next step for both warriors in the fascinating "Super Six" tournament, was originally set for April 17th (the same night Lucian Bute defends his IBF 168-pound title against Edison Miranda, and middleweight king Kelly Pavlik is set to face Sergio Martinez; these two fights taking place in Canada, and the U.S, respectively).

Nathan Cleverly and Kevin Mitchell Eye Big Fights

Nathan Cleverly and Kevin Mitchell have promised even bigger wins following their impressive championship victories at the weekend.

Mitchell will probably take on Michael Katsidis in the summer for the WBO World Lightweight title, with his promoter Frank Warren poised to open negotiations with Katsidis' handlers Golden Boy Promotions.

Scoreboard: Mayweather 1, Pacquiao 0

by Geoffrey Ciani - When negotiations for a proposed mega bout between Floyd Mayweather Junior and Manny Pacquiao fell apart, the boxing world was outraged and not without good reason. After all, this could have been the biggest fight in boxing history. That Mayweather and Pacquiao were unable to reach an agreement is inexcusable—especially when one considers they had already come to terms on the purse split. If the fight had fallen apart over money issues it would almost be understandable, but instead, negotiations collapsed because of Mayweather’s unprecedented request for Olympic style drug testing.

As a result, three general schools of thought have emerged. The first group consists of people who blame Mayweather. Since Mayweather asked Pacquiao to go beyond what the rules and regulations require, he was being unreasonable with his demands.

February 16, 1970: Joe Frazier and Jimmy Ellis

boxingBy Pete Madzelan - February 16, 2010 - When Muhammad Ali refused to be drafted into the military, boxing’s ruling bodies showed scant concern for due process. Instead, they wasted little time before stripping him of his title.

And thus, began the search for someone to take mantle of heavyweight champion. In 1968, both Joe Frazier and Jimmy Ellis won versions of the heavyweight championship. Though they each wanted sole recognition, neither was in an immediate hurry to hasten a fight between them.

In truth, they had their own agendas. First, they had to attract enough interest for a fight to be financially rewarding, and another was they each wanted to solidify their claim; convince the public they were worthy holders of the title.

Writing in the New York Times about the state of the heavyweights, Robert Lipsyte may have phrased it best by describing their titles as “alleged title(s)”.

Joe Frazier (24-0 21 KOs)knocked out Buster Mathis to win the New York version of the title, then impressively rolled over Manuel Ramos, Oscar Bonavena, Dave Zyglewicz and Jerry Quarry. Only Bonavena went the distance.

News: Oquendo vs King; Joseph Judah; Tony Grano

Monday-Februaury 15th-Chicago based HITZ BOXING, looks to pack 'em in and pack a punch this Saturday, February 20th at the HORSESHOE CASINO in Hammond, IL. Headlining the talent packed 6 bout card, is Heavyweight great "Fast" Fres Oquendo taking on Demterice King for the NABA/USBA Heavyweight Title... we have a fight on our hands with this match-up.. King, a known KO artist, plans to be the spoiler in Oquendo's quest for a shot at the Kiltschko brothers.

Freddie Roach, David Diaz and Fres Oquendo Join On the Ropes Boxing Radio - Ep. 60 at 6 PM ET

Freddie Roachby Jenna J -- Click here to listen to the show -- As always, this week's 60th edition of On the Ropes will start at its regularly scheduled time, 6pm Eastern Time. You can listen live by clicking “play” on the player or enter our chat on the blogtalk message board; you can also call into the show at (646)716-5404.

On the Ropes is back to bring you the latest and greatest in the world of boxing! Join me Jenna J, the Hostess, along with my Producer, the amazing Geoffrey Ciani (aka-Rummy), and my talented Co-Host, Nick Powers

Topics for Discussion

· Rumors surrounding a possible bout between Amir Khan and Paulie Malignaggi
· Nonito Donaire third round stoppage over late substitute Manuel Vargas
· Rumors of a possible rematch between Donaire and Vic Darchintan

Danny Green To Face Manny Siaca April 25th?

by James Slater - Though he made a huge name for himself the world over with his upset, 1st-round stoppage of legend Roy Jones Junior back in December of last year, Australian hard man Danny Green has been unable to land a second big, big fight. Talks with Bernard Hopkins ultimately proved fruitless for "The Green Machine," and no way does Jones appear to want a second fight (despite Roy's insistence that Green's hands were illegally wrapped for the fight).

'Left-Hook Lounge': Vivek Wallace's Mailbag feat. Jones/Hopkins, Mayweather, Pacquiao, Campbell and Marquez

jonesJesse O. (Orlando, FL): I thought your article on Roy Jones jr. and Bernard Hopkins last Friday really helped many of us see this rematch in a different light, but if you could, explain why you think so many people still choose to question their legacy?

Vivek (ESB): Personally, I've never encountered a perspective in life that I refused to sit and listen to, but I just have a very tough time comprehending any argument that supports questioning the role these two men have played in the sport. When it all boils down, I think it's simply a matter of people liking and supporting who they want to like and support - which is cool, but has ZERO to do with talent, which is how all these athletes should be judged. Some say, "Hopkins and Jones haven't faced the same type of competition as Leonard, Hagler, and company". I can't view that as a reasonable excuse because the talent pool of this era was far thinner, and we can't hold these men accountable for their date of birth. And besides, the Klitschko brothers have run the heavyweight division in arguably its weakest state, maybe of all-time, yet they still manage to fill seats back at home.

Alexander Povetkin To Face Dominick Guinn On Huck-Richards Card In March?

by James Slater - Unbeaten, Teddy Atlas-trained IBF mandatory challenger for world heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko, Alexander Povetkin is set to return to action next month. Keeping himself active as he awaits his eventual shot at "Dr. Steel Hammer," the Russian contender will, according to BoxRec, face former top contender Dominick Guinn on the Marco Huck-Adam Richards card in Germany on march 13th.

Arthur Abraham, Marco Huck Training Camp Update

Super Six World Boxing Classic tournament point leader King Arthur Abraham and WBO Cruiserweight Champion Marco “Captain” Huck are enjoying Ulli Wegner´s demanding training camp in Palm Springs. It has been one week since they left cold Berlin to shape up for their upcoming fights. King Arthur will take on Andre Dirrell in Palm Springs on March 6 at the Agua Caliente Casino, Resort, Spa in Rancho Mirage, Calif., in greater Palm Springs, live on SHOWTIME® at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the west coast), while Captain´ Huck is slated to face Adam Richards in Berlin one week later. “We have accustomed to the different climate and the new time zone,” King Arthur said. “Mr. Wegner has scheduled some tough work-outs. But it feels good to be in California..

News: Camacho Sr vs. Vester; Joey Dawejko; Ronnie Shields

The Anders Vester Promotions in Denmark is extremely pleased to announce that its coming promotions event is called as the "Macho-Time" to be take place at the Arena Midt, Kjellerup, Denmark on March 26, 2010. The Main Event will feature the 47-year-old former world champions Hector "Macho" Camacho (79-5-3) from Puerto Rico to fight against Danish fighter Allan Vester (28-6-1) for the vacant World Professional Boxing Federation (WPBF) Middleweight Title,the bout has been approved by the World Professional Boxing Federation (WPBF).

Canadian Boxing: Henney, Claggett, Ford , and Matuk Victorious

By G.M. Ross - The much anticipated rubber-match between Frank White of Sarnia, Ontario, and Ryan Henney of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, for the cruiserweight championship of Canada took place last night (Saturday, February 13) at the Shaw Conference Center in Edmonton, Alberta. These men first met in the summer of 2007 when Henney became the only man to stop White, scoring a technical knockout in the sixth of a scheduled eight rounds. Almost exactly a year later, White tied their pugilistic series at one a piece, earning a ten round unanimous decision and Henney’s cruiserweight championship of Canada. On Saturday night White and Henney went the distance again, leaving the outcome in the judges’ hands.

Night of the Champions Recap and Videos

By John Wight: If anyone was in any doubt that British boxing is in a state of rude health, hopefully such doubts will have been put to bed after watching Frank Warren’s latest promotion, billed as the ‘Night of the Champions’, which took place at London’s Wembley Arena on Saturday night.

In hindsight, given the performances of two of Britain’s much vaunted Olympians, in the shape of Frankie Gavin and James ‘Chunky’ De Gale, the East End’s very own Kevin Mitchell, and not forgetting the ever improving Nathan Cleverly, the night should have been billed as the ‘Night of the future World Champions’. For make no mistake, each of the aforementioned displayed to varying degrees the ingredients required to ascend to the heights of the sport within their respective divisions.

First up was Frankie Gavin fighting at light-welterweight. Immediately apparent during his six round win over tough Irish slugger, Peter McDonagh, was a maturity beyond both his years and five outings as a pro. Being able to keep his composure when faced with an opponent coming at him as if the fight was taking place outside the local pub is no mean feat, with McDonagh’s gameplan simply to brawl and mawl, swinging wildly and staying close in the hope of knocking Gavin out of his rhythm and drawing him into a gunfight

Margarito: No Stairway to Redemption Likely

By "Old Yank" Schneider - If hell has stairways and escalators, then fittingly they operate in only one direction.

The loathsome crime of glove-loading brings out strong emotions -- I cannot hide mine.

Margarito's appearance on the Pacquiao undercard is more than in doubt. Recent developments regarding Margarito's suitability for licensing have been hitting the boxing community like a tidal wave. All of this is an outgrowth due to a foreign substance found in Margarito's gloves before the fight against Shane Mosley a little over a year ago. The foreign plaster-like substance found in Margarito's hand wraps resulted in the California State Athletic Commission revoking Margarito's boxing license for a one-year period (the harshest penalty at the disposal of the commission at the time).

The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre…Sugar Ray Robinson Slaughters The Bronx Bull, Jake LaMotta

r.robinsonBy Dax Ferguson - The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre brings to mind a blood bath day in the Lincoln Park area on Chicago’s North Side in 1929. Factions of Al Capone’s Italian South Side gang raided a warehouse filled with bootleg whiskey. Two of the men were dressed as police officers and two others worn trench coats, concealing Thompson sub machine guns, commonly called Tommy guns. They were anticipating “rubbing out” Bugs Moran, boss of the Irish North Side gang and his gang. The conflict stemmed from bootleg operations and a couple of Capone’s men had been killed.

The four Capone henchmen brought seven men out of the warehouse and lined them up, facing the wall. The Moran men subjected, believing erroneously that the perpetrators were actually Chicago policemen. The four Capone assassins then mercilessly cut down the unwary seven victims, pumping 20 slugs from one Tommy gun and 50 from another, coupled with a couple shotgun blasts into the unsuspecting Moran men.

Nathan Cleverly Adds European Crown To His British And Commonwealth - Next A World Title?

by James Slater - Welshman Nathan Cleverly looked sensational once again last night, as he claimed the vacant European light-heavyweight title with a 5th-round stoppage of experienced former champ Antonio Brancalion of Italy. A big right hand smashed the 34-year-old visitor's head back as he was under fire along the ropes, prompting referee Jean-Louis Legend to dive in and halt the fight at the one-minute and 15-second mark.

22-year-old Cleverly is now 19-0(9). Brancalion is now 32-8-2(8).

Frank Warren's Wembley show of last night was a good one, and it's debatable who stole the show - Cleverly or lightweight talent Kevin Mitchell. One thing is sure, both undefeated fighters have ultra-promising futures.

When he began his pro career, brainy maths student Cleverly was labelled as a relative non-puncher, yet this very idea has been swept aside by the gifted 6.3.5" triple belt-holding boxer.

Kermit Cintron: “Paul Williams would be a huge victory for me”

Kermit Cintronby Geoffrey Ciani - This past week’s edition of On the Ropes featured exclusive interviews with Kermit Cintron, Jason Estrada, Roland Estrada, and Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin. Highlighting this episode was a nice conversation with former IBF welterweight champion, Kermit Cintron. Here are some excerpts from the Cintron interview:

Regarding when he plans to get back in the ring:
“We actually have a fight on May 8 against Paul Williams. We’re still negotiating on that and trying to get the venue and stuff like that, but it seems like it’s a done deal financially. We’re just waiting on where the fight will be at.”

On how he feels campaigning at 154 pounds:
“The weight is fine. I’m a bigger welterweight, I can hold 154 fine, I feel comfortable at it. I’m just looking at whatever weight can get me the best opportunity between 147 and 154.

Kevin Mitchell Destroys Ignacio Mendoza In 2nd-Round - Michael Katsidis Next?

by James Slater - Tonight at Wembley, on Frank Warren's big show, British lightweight star "Mighty" Kevin Mitchell looked nothing short of sensational as he blew away Colombia's Ignacio Mendoza inside just two-rounds. Defending his 135-pound Intercontinental crown, the Londoner landed a smashing right hand to the Spain-based challenger's head, sending him crashing to the mat in a corner. With absolutely no chance whatsoever of beating the count, the visiting fighter was counted out at one-minute and 24-seconds of the 2nd-round.

25-year-old Mitchell is now 31-0(23), 26-year-old Mendoza is 27-6-2(18).

Exclusive Interview With Johnathon Banks - "The Detroit Motto Is To Always Go For The KO!"

Johnathon Banksby James Slater - Unbeaten as a heavyweight at 3-0(2), former IBF cruiserweight title challenger Johnathon Banks of Detroit, 23-1(16) overall as a pro, takes the next step in his new weight class on March 20th, when he will face the dangerous Travis "Freight Train" Walker. 27-year-old Banks is looking forward to the fight that will take place on the Klitschko-Chambers bill in Germany, as well as to one day becoming world heavyweight champion himself.

Yesterday, Travis Walker was kind enough to give me his views on the fight with Banks, and earlier today, Johnathon gave me his take on the NABF heavyweight title clash.


James Slater: It's great to speak with you, as always, Johnathon. How much do you know about Travis Walker?

Johnathon Banks: Actually quite a lot. I saw him in the amateurs and I guess you could say I followed his pro career. I've seen him around a few times. I've seen him in the gym in two different training camps - one was with Wladimir, the other was with Vitali [Klitschko]. So I know quite a bit about Walker.

Friday Night Fight Referee Stoppages: Kim, Provodnikov, Vlasov, Johnson, & Simon get the TKO’s

By John G. Thompson - Russia’s Ruslan Provodnikov improved to 15-0 (10 KO’s) as he outworked the experienced Mexican Javier Jauregui 53-17-2 (36 KO’s). Juaregui’s extensive resume boasts names such as Anthony Peterson, Joan Guzman, Julio Diaz, Acelino Freitas, Jesus Chavez, Leavander Johnson, and Jose Luis Castillo. Unfortunately for Jauregui, most of these names are reflected by losses on his record. Javier did get the win over Leavander Johnson for the vacant IBF Lightweight title back in 2003 and scored a tenth round KO win over Castillo back in 1994 for the Mexico Featherweight Title.

Provodnikov boasts no names on his resume and most of his fights have been in Russia. Yet with some 115 amateur bouts under his belt, the twenty-six year old light welterweight pressed the action from the start, pushing the overweight Jauregui back into the ropes and nailing him with body shots. Jauregui did show moments where his experience served him well. In the second round he landed a decent combo and a right uppercut which seemed to stagger Provodnikov. Jauregui did not do enough work to win the round, however, seemingly trying to conserve his energy and pick his shots. Ringside commentator Teddy Atlas mentioned, “He won’t throw unless he can make it count.

Exclusive Interview With Travis "Freight Train" Walker - "I Definitely Have A Lot To Prove"

Travis Walkerby James Slater 30-year-old Travis Walker is a heavyweight contender who feels he has learnt much since his most recent defeat. "Freight Train," 34-3-1(28) was shocked inside a round by Manuel Quezada last July, but the big puncher from Texas is sure he was the recipient of a "lucky punch." Very much wanting a chance to once again avenge a 1st-round stoppage loss (see his two fights with TJ Wilson), Walker must first get past former cruiserweight/now heavyweight contender Johnathon Banks.

Walker and Banks will clash in a crossroads bout on the under-card of the March 20th Klitschko-Chambers title affair in Germany - and earlier today, Travis was kind enough to give the following answers to my interview questions. Here is what the hard-hitting "Freight Train" had to say:

James Slater: Thank you so much for your time, Travis. First of all, is the fight with Johnathon Banks a definite?

Travis Walker: Yes it is.

Froch vs Kessler on April 24

Carl FrochHERNING (Feb. 12, 2010) —Team Sauerland and Hennessy Sports are proud to announce that the Super Six World Boxing Classic tournament group stage 2 fight between WBC Super Middleweight Champion Carl Froch and the Viking Warrior Mikkel Kessler will take place at the MCH Messecentre, Herning in Denmark on the 24th April 2010. The fight will be televised in the United States on SHOWTIME® beginning at 9 p.m. ET/PT. In Denmark, the fight will be broadcast on Viasat. Hennessy Sports will be announcing the UK TV broadcaster over the next week.

The two superstars lock horns in the second round of this unprecedented boxing tournament, with Kessler eager to make up for his opening loss against Andre Ward. The WBC Champ Carl Froch comes off a split decision victory over Andre Dirrell. “With the support of my great Danish fans, I will defeat Carl Froch and become world champion again,” Kessler said. “The atmosphere at MCH Herning is incredible. I only have the best of memories of the venue. The TKO victory over Perdomo last September confirmed my place in the Super Six. After a bad start, I am now out for a knock-out and the first three points..

If Vitali Klitschko And Nikolai Valuev Do Fight, Will Klitschko Become The First Man To KO The Giant?

by James Slater - Though the fight may not actually happen (promoters Don King, Sauerland Event and K2 are currently trying to thrash out a deal), the idea of a bout between WBC heavyweight king Vitali Klitschko and former two-time WBA ruler Nikolai Valuev is intriguing to some. With David Haye busy with his mandatory against former belt holder John Ruiz, who else is there the WBC champ could actually fight in the summer?

Valuev, because of his size and the fact that he has never been down in any fight, remains a worthy contender; even though he is, A: somewhat boring to watch, and, B: coming off a loss to the aforementioned "Hayemaker..

'Call Em Out Fridays': Jones/Hopkins - Questions Raised, Questions Answered

Bernard HopkinsBy Vivek Wallace - On May 22, 1993, the world of boxing sat and watched as two rising stars entertained on the big stage. One of the names that rolled across the scrolling marquee that night was very familiar; the other quickly becoming more so by the day, supported strongly by a gritty determination and a take-no-shit attitude that made him an enigmatic force known to inwardly question all answers, despite a talent that clearly answered all questions. At the time, despite the promise they displayed, few truly knew whether or not the final script for these two men would leave a print on the sport. Fast-forward the hands of time and despite a ton of well placed memories, suddenly, that very same question continues to be analyzed. Seems pretty odd that such a question could even surface, but more and more, whispers from deep in the back of the crowd maintain that some how, some way, the offerings rendered by these two men don't quite place them in that top echelon of great names in history that never seem to be forgotten. When you hear Leonard, Hagler, Hearns, or Duran, most with even a modest recollection of their respective careers can remember the countless wars and battles that each of these men took part in. Through victory they earned their legendary status, but it was through defeat that they probably solidified it, as each of those lost battles paved the way for them to win the eventual war, gaining respect in the minds of fight fans world wide because of their true warrior spirits. A glimpse at the resumes of Hopkins and Jones in comparison offers a different slant. Some feel those resumes contain a lot, others feel they contain a lot to be desired. In their prime years, both men practically bobbed and weaved through competitive traffic like a Maserati past midnight which ultimately gave them this reputation. A pretty fitting concept, as only a near empty gas tank could ever be enough to slow, and perhaps even one day stop the motion of these two 'fast cars'.

Marco Huck Vs Adam Richards

By Adam Fillingham - On the thirteenth of March, WBO cruiserweight champion Marco Huck will be defending his title for a second time against ranked no. 14 contender Adam Richards. Richards, a former heavyweight, will be fighting only his third fight in the cruiserweight division.

Marko Huck is hot on an eight fight winning streak since his loss to Steve Cunningham two years ago. Since that defeat Huck has claimed the IBF intercontinental title, the European title (which he defended, with knockouts, three times) and the WBO world title.

Hector Camacho Senior To Fight Again?

by James Slater - Whenever one looks up BoxRec to see what fights are upcoming, and the name Hector Camacho appears, it's natural to assume it is Hector Camacho Junior that is in line to fight soon. After all, "Macho" Camacho, Junior's father, has long since been retired, right? Well, actually no, he hasn't.

It's not likely too many fans are all that interested or aware of it, but 47-year-old Camacho actually fought last May, holding Ramon Campas to an eight-round draw in Florida.

Marquez Out, Malignaggi Likely In For Khan's Next Fight

Malignaggi vs Khanby James Slater - It has been reported in a number of places how Mexico's Juan Manuel Marquez will not now be facing reigning WBA light-welterweight champion Amir Khan on May 15th. Marquez, it has also been reported, was interested in the fight, yet either changed or had his mind changed and withdrew this week (ace trainer Nacho Beristan reportedly advised his fighter not to take the fight, Khan's debut in America).

So now, as Khan has told the BBC, he and his team are hoping it will be Paulie Malignaggi who is on the other side of the ring - in Madison Square Garden on May 15th. Malignaggi's people have definitely been contacted, and now we must wait and see whether or not the recently rejuvenated "Magic Man" is interested in the fight. Khan certainly feels the slick boxer who is coming off a clear points win over Juan Diaz WILL opt to fight him next.

How Can We Revive Boxing In America?

Paul McCreath - In the past few years we have seen a gradual decline in boxing in America. The flagship division, the heavyweights has seen the most obvious change. Where once we could take it for granted that most if not all of the champions would be American and probably at least eight of the top ten fighters as well, now we have no alphabet champs from USA and only 3 rated in the Ring's top 10 the last time I looked. The problem is not just with the big guys but extends into the lighter divisions as well and even worse into the amateurs. A few years ago Olympic medals were plentiful but today they are rare. Few Americans are world top 15 rated in any division.

Klitschko vs Valuev: Team Valuev Wants 60-40 Split

Don King Productions and Sauerland Event have countered K2 Promotions latest offer to former two-time World Boxing Association heavyweight champion Nikolai “Giant Russian” Valuev (50-2, 34 KOs) to face World Boxing Council heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko (39-2, 37 KOs) with a deal calling for a 60-40 percentage split.

“They approached us with a $1 million offer for Valuev to face Vitali, and Sauerland Event and I told them we would like $4 million for the fight,” King said. “Now they’ve come back to us with a $2 million guarantee. We countered with a 60-40 split of revenue.

All Time Featherweight Survey: Pacquiao cracks top ten, but did he deserve it?

henry armstrongby Geoffrey Ciani - Who are the ten best featherweights of all-time?

This is the sixth in a series of surveys I have been conducting. In the first survey, we peered into the opinions of long-time boxing fans to make a definitive list of the top ten all time heavyweights. Although this is a very subjective topic that is skewed by personal bias, differences of opinion, and the absence of a universally agreed upon criteria to judge past fighters, we can still establish some degree of consensus. While contemplating my own list of top heavyweight pugilists, I decided gathering the input of others might help display a more accurate portrayal of what a 'true' top 10 list should look like. Since then I have had similar surveys involving the light heavyweight, middleweight, welterweight, and lightweight divisions.

In this survey, which included many of the same individuals from the previous five, I polled 30 long-time boxing fans (myself included). My question was simple. I had each person in the survey provide me with a chronological list of who he or she (there was one ‘she’ in the survey—my esteemed colleague from On the Ropes, the lovely Miss Jenna J) considered to be the ten best featherweights in boxing history.

The 2010 Under-19 National Champions are Crowned in Cincinnati

(CINCINNATI, OHIO) – Eleven national champions were crowned on Friday night at the 2010 Under-19 National Championships in Cincinnati, Ohio. Ten men’s final round bouts and one female championship contest took place on the final day of competition at the Hyatt Regency Cincinnati. The boxers in the light flyweight division experienced more excitement than they bargained for with a fire alarm going off in the second round, causing a brief stoppage. Yet that didn’t deter Carlos Suarez (Lima, Ohio) from his mission in the light flyweight final round bout with Rondarrius Hunter (Atlanta, Ga.). Suarez grabbed the first lead in the bout and built it out throughout the three rounds despite the brief interruption and point deductions from both boxers. Suarez won a 15-7 decision over Hunter to win the light flyweight crown.

Soto-Diaz Highlights Pacquiao-Clottey Undercard

ARLINGTON, TX (February 11, 2010) – World Boxing Council (WBC) super featherweight champion HUMBERTO “Zorrita” SOTO and former WBC lightweight champion DAVID DIAZ will go mano-a-mano for the vacant WBC lightweight title, headlining the pay-per-view undercard of THE EVENT: PACQUIAO vs. CLOTTEY, World Welterweight Championship. The Pacquiao vs. Clottey pay-per-view telecast will also feature 10-round rumbles between two-time world champion JOSE LUIS “El Terrible” CASTILLO in a welterweight battle against top-10 contender ALFONSO GOMEZ and “Ireland’s” JOHN DUDDY in a middleweight duel with MICHAEL “Myckol” MEDINA.

It Was Twenty Years Ago Today - The Biggest Upset In Boxing History!

mike tysonby James Slater - By reading the above headline, though it does not list the contest that took place twenty years ago this very day, all boxing fans will know which fight this article is written about. Who could ever forget that amazing day in Tokyo, Japan, when 42-1 outsider James "Buster" Douglas not only became the first man to defeat the seemingly invincible "Iron" Mike Tyson, but also became the first man to knock Tyson out?

Much has been written about this incredible fight over the years (it was not just an amazing upset, but also a great action fight, full of twists and turns in the plot along the way; with some controversy thrown in for good measure!) and practically all people with an interest in the sport will have seen a copy of the February 11th, 1990 rumble at least once. However, two decades on, the fight remains a thrill to watch. The momentous upset should also serve warning to all currently active fighters, no matter how invincible THEY may look, that it is never safe to underestimate an opponent.

Timothy Bradley-Edwin Valero - Who Wins?

by James Slater - Talk about an intriguing and exciting fight. Though the fight is far from a done deal at this point in time, there is at least a decent chance unbeaten wannabe stars Timothy Bradley and Edwin Valero could meet in the summer, in what would be a classic Boxer Vs. Puncher match-up.

Both men are unbeaten, both are more than willing to fight the best available opposition, with both men seeking super-fights, and both guys are fast, exciting performers who can punch. What's not to like about the idea of the two hungry warriors getting it on with each other?

Cleverly fights for European title

By Adam Fillingham: Growing Welshman Nathan Cleverly will be fighting for the vacant European title against Italian veteran Antonio Brancalion. The British and former Commonwealth champion will be hoping to make a big impression at Wembley on Saturday night. Cleverly is coming from domination wins over Courtney Fry (TKO round 8) Danny McIntosh ( TKO round 7) and Billy Boyle ( TKO round 2). Cleverly fought to perfection in these fights which has earned him the status of Britain's biggest prospect and has been introduced into the ring magazine top 10.

Bute vs Miranda press conference - quotes

Bute vs MirandaJean Bedard (InterBox President) - “With the signing of this fight, we continue our tradition by bringing into Montreal a world class event with two world class athletes in Lucian Bute and Edison Miranda. The pre-sale of tickets is going strong and indicates we will have an amazing crowd and ambiance at the Bell Centre the night of April 17th,” states InterBox president Mr. Jean Bedard. “Power is a shortcut to win. Miranda can put out the lights with any punch…One week after his fight with Librado Andrade, Lucian was back in the gym. He’s training hard, taking Edison Miranda seriously and he’ll do everything he has to do to stay World champion for a long time. Lucian is an ambitious fighter, he wants to be a hall of famer and it’s a privilege for me to work with him.

Lucian Bute

“Last time I fought it was the Pepsi Colisee in Quebec City that exploded with action and with the result. This time it’s going be the Bell Centre! I am taking Miranda very seriously, I have a lot of respect for him, he’s courageous and I know he comes to win. He demolished many good fighters and is a notorious puncher. I will have to keep my concentration level on high, show my speed, footwork and ability to stay champion,” declares Lucian Bute.

News: Matt Remillard; Henry vs Garay; Jason Cintron

MANCHESTER, Conn. (Feb. 12, 2010) – WBC rated No. 10 featherweight contender, unbeaten NABF champion Matt “Sharp Shooter” Remillard, is getting closer and closer to a major fight. In his last bout (Jan. 29), Remillard destroyed Rafael “The Dominican Man” Lora (11-2, 5 KOs) for the second time in a row, defending for the first time the NABF belt he won September 19 by way of a fourth-round technical knockout. Lora’s team complained that the original fight was unjustly halted, but they soon discovered that sometimes you should watch out for what you wish.

News: Rayonta Whitfield; Oquendo vs Arlovski; Ballroom Brawl in Tampa

World ranked flyweight Rayonta "STINGRAY" Whitfield is training at the Savannah Boxing Club in Houston, Texas, under the guidance of world renowned trainer Ronnie Shields, in preparation for his NABO Title battle against Sergio "THE SAN DIEGO SENSATION" Espinoza. Their twelve round headline bout, part of an action packed evening of world class professional boxing set for Saturday, February 27th at the Bell Auditorium in Augusta, Georgia, is presented by TKO Boxing Promotions. "Camp in Houston has been perfect. I'll be here sparring and training with Ronnie until a couple of days before the fight. We're putting in the hard work that will payoff on February 27th" said the 28 year old Whitfield.

February 1965: The Culmination of Floyd Patterson’s Redemption Road (I)

floyd pattersonBy Pete Madzelan: Floyd Patterson’s comeback after the two straight debilitating one round knockouts by Sonny Liston was met with a collective shrug.

That was okay with Floyd, he was doing this for himself; for his pride. So, he embarked on his own redemption road that concluded when he outpointed George Chuvalo to cement himself as a top contender for the heavyweight crown.

*

To begin the road back, Floyd went abroad to Sweden, where he was enormously popular. Writing in the Saturday Evening Post, Pete Hamill beautifully described the affection Sweden had for Floyd, and Floyd for Sweden.

“When he walks the streets of…Stockholm and Goteborg, he is besieged by autograph hunters and tailed by photographers.”

Patterson quipped, “You might say I’m a kind of one-man Beatles.

Erik Morales returns on Mar. 27 PPV

HOBOKEN, N.J. (Feb. 11, 2010) – Integrated Sports Media, North America’s undisputed leader pay-per-view distribution of major boxing events, is teaming-up with KO Entertainment to bring American fans the ring return of Mexican great Erik “El Terrible” Morales, who headlines the March 27th “The Champion Returns” pay-per-view event live from Monterrey, Mexico. “We’re excited to bring U.S. boxing fans the return of Erik Morales, one of boxing’s all-time greats, and the last man to defeat Manny Pacquaio,” Integrated Sports Media president Doug Jacobs said. “He is a living legend who has beaten many, many world champions. The entire card is stacked from top to bottom with world champions, top contenders, and hot prospects..

Episode 3 Of FIGHT CAMP 360° Premieres Monday On SHOWTIME

NEW YORK (Feb. 12, 2010) — The critically acclaimed reality series from SHOWTIME Sports®—FIGHT CAMP 360°: Inside The Super Six World Boxing Classic—returns to SHOWTIME with Episode 3, premiering Monday, Feb. 15, at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT. The 30-minute episode recaps all three Group Stage 1 bouts with unique angles, never-before-seen fight footage and ringside seats next to the promoters, fighter’s families and cornermen. Episode 3 follows each fighter after their respective match, as they recede from the spotlight in victory and defeat to prepare for the next Group Stage.

Katsidis vs. Diaz II; And a Statement from Michael Katsidis

Michael KatsidisBy John G. Thompson - For those who have not already heard, the excellent March 27th match-up of Michael Katsidis vs. Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero has been cancelled do to the health issues of Robert’s wife, Casey, who is fighting her own battle with leukemia. Certainly no one can fault Guerrero for pulling out, and we all wish Casey well. So who does Katsidis fight instead? It is clear there is one fight which interests Katsidis, and that is a rematch with one of the only two men to have beaten him. Here is a statement from Michael Katsidis:

“I think it is number one priority that I gladly can announce that Juan Diaz has officially accepted my challenge with an immediate public response. Already this shows his willingness to what will be another exciting battle. I know this fight will be at his weight division of which he was formerly crowned the lightweight king of the world. Now I am champion and I am prepared to put my belt on the line against the very best, and at this weight Diaz is assured to be all that is expected. I want to make a firm point to the boxing public. I have held back the truth to my demise in our last fight having suffered a broken hand in the second round of our last fight. Let it be known I will come forward, I will deliver and just as I have regained my title I will dominate all that I fight as now I am far more hardened and experienced then ever before in my career. I mean this with the most humble intentions but making sure to allow prior notice so all can witness the turning point I have worked so hard for.

Johnathon Banks To Meet Travis Walker On Klitschko-Chambers Card?

by James Slater - The upcoming March 20th heavyweight title fight between reigning Ring magazine, IBF and WBO king Wladimir Klitschko and "Fast" Eddie Chambers is an intriguing enough fight, yet another decent heavyweight match-up on the under-card is always welcome. And, according to the essential web site that is BoxRec.com, a good heavyweight supporting bout will indeed take place in Germany next month, an hour or so before the big title fight.

Former cruiserweight contender and IBF title challenger Johnathon Banks, currently 23-1(16) overall and 3-0(2) as a heavyweight, is set to continue his quest in his second weight class, when he will go in against the big-punching Travis "Freight Train" Walker.

News: Edner Cherry; Huck vs Richards; Kaliesha West

TAMPA, FL (February 10, 2010) Former world title challenger Edner “CHERRY BOMB” Cherry is a man on a mission and continues on his path towards another world title opportunity on Friday, February 19th in the main event of “TRIPLE-HEADER IN TAMPA” at the Ala Carte Event Pavilion. Cherry squares off against Columbian banger Hevinson Herrera in the headline bout of an evening of world class professional boxing presented by TKO Boxing Promotions, Fight Night Productions and Ker’s WingHouse.

Nineteen Years Ago Today - "Terrible" Terry Norris Dominates "Sugar" Ray Leonard

Norrisby James Slater - Exactly nineteen long years ago this very day, all-time great "Sugar" Ray Leonard suffered the fate of losing in what was his Madison Square Garden debut. Pushing his luck by, A: fighting on at the relatively advanced age of 33, and by B: dropping back down to as low a weight as 154-pounds for the first time in well over six years, Leonard met the much younger "Terrible" Terry Norris, in a WBC light-middleweight title challenge.

Norris, who was a full decade the younger man, was seen by some as a new star of boxing; the man who could maybe even take over from Leonard as the megastar of the lower weight classes. Coming into the February 9th, 1991 fight off the back of five straight victories, including the sensational 1st-round destruction of John "The Beast" Mugabi he'd scored to win his crown, Norris was still only a slight favourite to beat Leonard. Perhaps the reason for this was the fact that Norris, in an earlier 154-pound title challenge, this one for the WBA belt, had been blown away inside two-rounds by Julian Jackson. Leonard may not have been as lethal a one-punch killer as was "The Hawk," but he was a hard hitter nonetheless, and he was so much more experienced than Norris - to say nothing of "Sugar's" undeniable greatness. It was with all this on his mind that the 26-3 Norris entered the ring in New York to face the 36-1-1 living legend.

Ghana’s Charles Adamu defends Commonwealth title on March 20

By Prince Dornu-Leiku - Ghana’s Charles Adamu will defend his Commonwealth Super Middleweight title on March 20 in Namibia against local favourite Harry Simon (24-0, 17 KOs). It will be the first defence of the crown the Ghanaian pugilist won only last December 18 and he is keen to impress even though the fight takes place in front of the experienced Namibian opponent’s own fans.

But 32 year old Adamu who beat Briton Carl Dilks in London to win again the title he previously held but lost to Carl Froch in 2004, says the 37 year old Simon will be no obstacle to his ambitions.

Heavyweight Crowd-Pleaser Mike Mollo To Return Against Raphael Butler In March?

by James Slater -It's unlikely either guy will ever become a heavyweight champion, but Mike Mollo and Raphael Butler - who, according to BoxRec, are set to clash in Chicago on March 26th - are both gutsy sluggers who always come to fight hard. Mollo, who celebrates his 30th birthday tomorrow, is the more well known warrior of the two men, having rumbled with some pretty big names in his now 19-3(12) pro career.

Manny Pacquiao-Edwin Valero - Please Make This Fight Happen!

Valeroby James Slater - Immediately after he'd stopped a brave Antonio DeMarco in the 10th-round on Saturday night, improving his perfect record to 27-0(27), WBC lightweight king Edwin Valero again called out fellow southpaw and reigning pound-for-pound star Manny Pacquiao. Saying a fight between he and the Filipino legend is a fight "the whole world wants to see," the lethal-punching Venezuelan made it clear he'd be willing to move up in weight to make the super-fight happen.

Indeed, the word is, "El Inca" will make the move up to 140-pounds in his very next fight (tantalising whispers suggest Valero could possibly fight WBO light-welterweight champion Timothy Bradley in the summer!). Believing he can carry his power - punching power that has seen him win every single one of his pro bouts inside the distance - up with him to 140 and maybe even beyond, Valero is hungry for a mega-match with "Pac-Man." He is not the only one!

As big a fight as Pacquiao-Floyd Mayweather would have been (and maybe still will be), a fight between Pacquiao and Valero is something else altogether.

Hopkins/Jones Jr LA Quotes

Bernard Hopkins – “This is 2010. That was 1993. That’s 17 years I’ve been waiting for this fight. It’s personal to me and it’s important to me that I get this man in the ring and that I send him on his way to the Hall of Fame. I want to make sure that the last person he remembers is ‘The Executioner.’”

“You listen to Roy Jones and he says something I agree with. You hate to say it, but we are rivals, and you hate to say it, but it took us 17 years to get here. A lot of other things have happened in our lives in the time it took to get here, but now that it’s here, his worst nightmare has come to pass. Me..

News: Molitor vs. Ndlovu II; Paul Spadafora; Sadam Ali

Since losing his IBF Junior Featherweight world championship to Celestino Caballero in November of 2008, “The Canadian Kid” Steve Molitor (31-1, 12 KO’s) has been on a single-minded mission to regain his belt, and re-establish his dominance at 122 pounds.

On March 27th at Casino Rama, in Rama, Ontario, that mission can finally be accomplished when Molitor (ranked #2 by the IBF) faces South African Takalani Ndlovu (30-5, 18 KO’s, IBF #1) for the now vacant IBF Junior Featherweight world title, during the main event at Rumble at Rama XI.

Tavoris Cloud-Glen Johnson - Who Wins?

Tavoris Cloudby James Slater - In earning a shot at current IBF light-heavyweight champion Tavoris Cloud, ageless wonder Glen Johnson looked nothing short of brilliant this past Friday night when he hammered Yusaf Mack to a 6th-round defeat. Winning his 50th pro fight, the incredible 41-year-old "Road Warrior" now finds himself back in a position to be able to earn some big money in the somewhat quiet 175-pound division.

Chad Dawson, twice a points winner over the Jamaican who lives in Florida, is the best fighter in the division, but he is no star and he also has a less than trilling style of fighting; while ageing warriors Bernard Hopkins and Roy Jones Junior are big names but neither guy figures to stick around in the weight class for too much longer (Hopkins, should he beat Jones in April, may even go up to heavyweight). So, in terms of a great action fight, the possible Johnson-Cloud clash is probably the best bet.

Cloud, 20-0(18) an all-out action fighter who never stops throwing punches, will likely prove a tougher foe for Johnson than Mack did.

Boxing State of the Union 2010 (Cruiserweights)

By: Karim ‘Kato’ Godfrey - The Cruiserweight division has been lacking high quality talent for years now. This division reminds me of the Jr. Flyweight or Strawweight division; enough decent boxers but no one you would be able to name off the top of your head. I think of myself as more than a casual fan of boxing and can’t come up with many positives for this division. They need to make more high quality matchups but, how can you if there aren’t that many to begin with.

Yanjing Fight Night: Andy Murray vs Oisin Fagan; Healy replaces Murtagh

Yanjing Fight Night: Weigh In Details
* Andy Murray (134.5 Lbs) V Oisin Fagan (134.5 Lbs) - Irish Lightweight Title (10 Rounds)
* Patrick Hyland (125.5 Lbs) V Mickey Coveney (126 Lbs) - Irish Featherweight Title (10 Rounds)
* Coleman Barrett (225 Lbs) V Colin Kenna (239 Lbs) - Irish Heavyweight Title (10 Rounds)
* Anthony Fitzgerald (162.5 Lbs) V Ciaran Healy (167 Lbs) - Irish Super Middleweight Title (10 Rounds).

Is Valero the next P4P? What’s next for DeMarco?

ValeroBy Paul Strauss: Edwin El Inca Dinamita Valero came very close to ruining his string of victories and stoppages when he suffered a horrendous cut to his forehead in the second round of his fight with Antonio DeMarco. The cut came from a freakishly sharp (accidental) left elbow. The cut was so nasty that it seemed an almost certainty the fight would be stopped. The good thing for Valero was the location of the cut, which was high up and to the right side of the forehead. As a result, most of the blood stayed out of the right eye.

However, Valero also suffered a bad cut to the right eyelid, but his corner did a great job keeping the bleeding under control. However, initially the right side of Valero’s face was a crimson mask, but it didn’t keep the Venezuelan knockout artist from attacking.

Credit should be given to DeMarco as well. He weathered a tremendous attack throughout the fight, and seemed to maintain his poise and confidence right up until the end.

Acosta and Machado Collide in Dublin

Cuban KO sensation Alexei Acosta faces a major step up in class this Saturday when he takes on former World Champion Felix Machado in a unique Latin American duel on the Yanjing Fight Night at the National Stadium in Dublin.

Machado will be a name familiar to Irish fight fans having faced Bernard Dunne in 2008 in the Dubliner's first bout after his defeat to Kiko Martinez. On that occasion the Venezuelan southpaw lost on points over 10 rounds to Dunne but he will be hoping for greater success this weekend against the Cork City based Acosta who has so far KO'd all 9 of his professional opponents.

Guerrero vs. Katsidis Called Off

By John G. Thompson - Josh Weaver with the Gilroy Dispatch has reported that Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero (a native of Gilroy, California) will have to pull out of his potential March 27th match-up with the exciting Australian slugger Michael Katsidis. Guerrero sited his wife’s battle with Leukemia as the reason for his withdrawal. While fans will certainly be disappointed that this potentially thrilling fight will not take place, certainly no one can fault Guerrero for his reasons.

On the Ropes Boxing Radio ep. 59—Featuring Kermit Cintron, Peter Quillin & Team Estrada

kermit cintron by Jenna J >-- Click here to listen to the show -- As always, this week's 59th edition of On the Ropes will start at its regularly scheduled time, 6pm Eastern Time. You can listen live by clicking “play” on the player or enter our chat on the blogtalk message board; you can also call into the show at (646)716-5404.

On the Ropes is is back to bring you the latest and greatest in the world of boxing! Join me Jenna J, the Hostess, along with my spectacular Producer, the amazing Geoffrey Ciani (aka-Rummy).

Topics for Discussion

· It’s official! Shane Mosley versus Floyd Mayweather, May 1
· Tomasz Adamek difficult victory against Jason Estrada
· The prospect of Adamek facing Chris Arreola in April based on the Estrada performance
· Glen Johnson’s impressive stoppage over Yusaf Mack
· Edwin Valero’s impressive knockout of Antonio DeMarco

UK Boxing: Martin Concepcion; McKenzie/Bellew; Kenny Anderson

MARTIN Concepcion wants to avenge the ‘worst moment of his career’ by knocking out Bradley Pryce in the Prizefighter Light-Middleweight final. Concepcion and Pryce are two of the eight contenders in Barry Hearn’s next Prizefighter, at the York Hall in Bethnal Green, London on February 26. The pair have history as Pryce stopped Concepcion in the third round of their clash for the Commonwealth Championship in October 2007.

Forget Mayweather. How about Valero?

by Robert Cookson - Edwin Valero did it again, knocking out his 27th consecutive opponent and defending his WBC lightweight title for the second time. It was an impressive performance from the Venezuelan who impressed me with his previously underemployed boxing abilities.

The opponent was a good, solid and tough Antonio DeMarco, who was mercifully rescued by his corner after a systematic nine-round beating. While watching the fight, I couldn’t help be reminded of the Manny Pacquiao of old.

Mayweather vs Mosley: Several Valid Reasons Why Sugar Shane Beats Money Mayweather

Mosley vs MayweatherBy Dax Ferguson - Well, fight fans, the fight of this decade is apparently going to happen. It’s not that often that two of the three greatest fighters on the planet have the opportunity to meet in the ring. Or that the three greatest fighters are all boxing in the very same weight division. Of course, I am referring to Sugar Shane Mosley, Floyd Money Mayweather and Manny Pacquaio.

I, for one, was really looking forward to seeing Manny and Floyd get it on; now it’s Shane and Floyd in what promises to be one of the most important welterweight fights of all time; and that is saying a lot when one remembers some of the great battles in that division in the last half of the century. One of the greatest battles was between all time great Kid Gavilan and unbeaten Gil Turner, who possessed at age 21 a 31-0 record with 25 KO’s and ex-champs Ike Williams and Beau Jack on his kayo roster. Gavilan triumphed in the 11 the round in a bout that drew 47,000 fans to the Philly arena back in July of 1952.

Then there were the epic battles pitting Gavilan vs Billy Graham and Carmen Basilio.

Jones vs Hopkins II Quotes

New York City (February 9) –Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins and Roy “The Terminator” Jones stayed true to their reputations as two of the most outspoken boxers in the history of the sport as they announced The Rivals: Hopkins vs. Jones II, which will take place April 3 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nev. and will be broadcast live on pay-per-view. The debate style format of the press conference was the perfect setting for these two living legends to prove why their nearly two-decade long rivalry is stronger than ever. Below please find a sampling of their bold statements, setting the stage for what will surely be a great night for boxing and a hotly contested fight.

German TV giant ARD and Team Sauerland extend contract through 2015

German public TV giant ARD and Team Sauerland have agreed to an early contract extension through 2015. The Berlin-based boxing stable will continue to deliver between 10 and 12 shows each year. “We are pleased to further extend our successful cooperation with ARD,” said manager Wilfried Sauerland, whose boxers are promoted by Team Sauerland. “Together we have delivered high-class boxing on a regular basis to the German and the international audience.

'Left-Hook Lounge': Vivek Wallace's Mailbag feat. Pacquiao, Mayweather, Valero, and Mosley

ValeroArdley W. (North Miami Beach, FL): Edwin Valero's victory was pretty interesting. Did you think he lived up to the hype and the Pacquiao comparisons?

Vivek W. (ESB): I can now officially say this....."I'm a fan"! I have seen Valero on video quite a bit as I studied him in the past after hearing all of the buzz, but I must say, seeing him live did a little something for me. I don't see the Pacquiao comparisons, outside of the fact that both men are relatively small and have very good power, though. Actually, (as odd as this may sound), fundamentally, he showed a little more than Pacquiao at this stage of his evolution. He doesn't rely on his chin as much. Pacquiao, (similar to Mosley), will take a slew of shots to land a few. Valero was very much adept at slipping punches and he has that nifty move where he actually puts his off-hand up to cover his chin when he does it. What I noticed though - as it relates to him getting hit - when he does, he actually takes it very well. There was one misconception of him that I heard and feel compelled to speak on. It was stated that he was tired because he was "fighting with his mouth open". In breaking down footage, he has ALWAYS done this, but he never seems to wear down. I think in an odd way, it's just something he has grown accustomed to doing.

Mikkel Kessler Video Blog – Media Training Session in Berlin

Mikkel Kessler and Jimmy Montoya held a public training session at Berlin´s Max-Schmeling-Gym on Tuesday afternoon. The Viking Warrior is shaping up in the German capital ahead of his Super Six second-round clash with WBC Champion Carl Froch. “Things have been going fine in Berlin,” Kessler stated. “Froch said he wants to decapitate me but I think it will be the other way round..

With Carlos Támara, Colombia Amounts 42 World Champions –A Statistical Approach from Antonio Cervantes to Carlos Támara

Jaime Castro Núñez - Carlos Támara is Colombia’s newest champion of the world. By knocking out Brian “Hawaiian Punch” Viloria in the Philippines, the kid from Sincelejo, now living and training out of Bergen, NJ., has become Colombia’s 42th boxing champion of the world, being junior welterweight Antonio Cervantes “Kid Pambelé” the first one. Just for the sake of having fun with the statistics, I spent the last two weeks putting all the numbers together in order to analyze the sport of boxing in this part of the world. This is what I found.

Colombia entered into the boxing world scenario on October 28, 1972, in Panama, when 140-pounder Antonio Cervantes dethroned Alfonso “Peppermint” Frazer, becoming Colombia’s first champion ever.

What Now For Adamek And Estrada?

Valeroby James Slater - It seems there is a good chance the debate will continue regarding the scoring of last night's heavyweight rumble between Tomasz Adamek and Jason Estrada. Very much a case of take your pick, some fans feel the Polish tough guy deserved his points win, while others felt the fight was extremely close and could have gone either way - with maybe a draw being a fair result. One thing is clear, the 118-110 score one judge handed in after the 12-rounds that Adamek won via a UD was another case of poor officiating.

Geoffrey Ciani, in his fine piece of work below, has already covered last night's bout from all bases, but I wanted to add my thoughts about where each fighter goes from here. Angry at the decision going against him, especially by such a wide margin on that last card, 29-year-old Estrada would no doubt like a rematch, but on neutral ground - what with last night's venue of Newark, New Jersey very much being 33-year-old Adamek's hometown. But what real chance does "Big Six" have of getting a return with "Goral?" Slim and none, as the saying goes.

Euro News: Jack Culcay, Robert Woge, Holyfield vs Nielsen?

By Per Ake Persson: Sauerland Event are trying to get retired Danish heavy Brian Nielsen, 44, to comeback and take on Evander Holyfield, 47. Nielsen, 65-2, retired six years agoafter a long and hard career and had big problems with his knee that was the actual reason for his retirement. Nielsen tells Danish news agency Ritzau a comeback won´t happen until - if possible - he has his knee fixed. The comeback plans have made big headlines in Denmark where Nielsen was a superstar. As for Holyfield, well, somehow it seems as if Sauerland forgot to tell him about the Nielsen fight but he tells Ekstrabladet he´s interested.

News: George Tahdooahnippah; Joseph Judah; ICB Knockout Series

"Comanche Boy" George Tahdooahnippah literally weathered the ice storm of January 2010 and came out victorious in his bout with Ohio native Chris Overby.

Tahdooahnippah (22-0-1) displayed his superior boxing skills with a unanimous decision over the game Overby. "There were a lot of distractions outside the boxing event with the weather and the state of Oklahoma, but I am fighter obligated to win. Regardless the circumstances, I must win," Tahdooahnippah said.

Estrada provides difficult challenge for Adamek

Adamekby Geoffrey Ciani @ Ringside - Despite his impressive victory against Andrew Golota there were a lot of questions surrounding cruiserweight champion Tomasz Adamek’s jump to the heavyweight division. Against Golota, Adamek looked impressive and made relatively quick work of his fellow Pole. Golota, however, was a shell of his former self far removed from the days when he twice battered former undisputed champion Riddick “Big Daddy” Bowe. Golota was painfully slow and unable to mount a serious offensive attack. As a result, the much quicker Adamek was able to have his way with Golota who did his best impression of a walking heavy bag before succumbing to Adamek’s firepower in round five.

Adamek’s second test at heavyweight came in the form of Jason Estrada last night at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The 10,123 in attendance were overwhelmingly pro-Adamek, but despite constant cheers from the fans clad in red and white this was a tough fight for Adamek. Estrada proved to be a formidable foe and was able to give just as well as he took. Most of the rounds were extremely close and very difficult to score. Adamek was the busier man, but for the most part, Estrada was landing the cleaner harder blows. Through the first six rounds Estrada had tremendous success countering Adamek’s right with a left hook that never seemed to miss the mark. Despite this success, however, Adamek still seemed to be winning at the halfway point based on activity.

Does Floyd Want to Clean Boxing or Tarnish His Rival's Image?

By Steve Fradkin - Floyd Mayweather told Jim Rome on ESPN this week that "Manny wouldn't take a $25 million drug test. I'm trying to clean up sports, make a change... You don't start off your career as average, and then after your turn 25, become extraordinary... All we want is for Pacman to take a $25 million dollar drug test, and we got a fight."

Was Pacquiao really just average before he turned 25?

Was he average when he took two titles in the flyweight division? Was he average when he KO'd Lehlohonolo Ledwaba on HBO as a late sub for a super bantamweight title in 2001?

Exclusive Interview With "The Swamp Donkey," Adam Richards - "Me Against Huck Will Be Two Bulls Going At Each Other!"

by James Slater - Crowd-pleasing 29-year-old Adam Richards of Houston, Texas, got the title fight opportunity he has been craving since childhood yesterday, when he signed the contract to fight WBO cruiserweight champion Marco Huck in Germany on March 13th. Unbeaten as a 200-pounder, the 23-2(15) warrior who is better known to fights fans by his nickname of "Swamp Donkey," is already training for his big opportunity and he is ready to give his all in the ring in Germany.

A good amateur, Richards turned pro at heavyweight in March of 2001, and back in April of last year, after a thrilling but losing battle with Chazz Witherspoon, he dropped down to 200-pounds, where he has won two straight.

Valero and Abregu Still Undefeated

ValeroBy John G. Thompson: Edwin “Dinamita” Valero 27-0 (27 KO’s) put on a career defining performance in defending his WBC Lightweight Title and forcing Antonio DeMarco 23-2-1 to quit on his stool before the start of the tenth round. No one should misunderstand what happened as the Venezuelan champion showed brilliance against a very game, yet outclassed opponent in the young Mexican warrior. This was not simply a case of a young fighter being exposed, but an example of what happens when a very good fighter meets a great one.

Warming up the crowd in exciting fashion, Luis Carlos Abregu 29-0 (23 KO’s) earned a tough fought unanimous decision against Richard Gutierrez 24-4-1. After a somewhat close first round, Gutierrez almost pulled an upset in the second, knocking Abregu down. Abregu had just thrown a hard right which was blocked by the guard of Gutierrez, and was following it up with a left hook, when Gutierrez threw a vicious left hook of his own catching Abregu on the chin. Abregu’s knees buckled and he went down. Getting up on shaky legs Abregu managed to move and eventually regained his faculties, even landing shots of his own before the bell ended the round.

Hopkins, Jones To Settle Fierce Rivalry On April 3 At Mandalay Bay

"A rematch with Roy has been in the back of my mind for a long time and it's finally going to happen," said Hopkins. "I have accomplished a lot in my career since that night in Washington, DC in 1993, and I am going to end this thing between me and Roy once and for all."

"We're giving the fans what they want to see. They deserve this fight and why not supply the fans with their demands?" said Jones. "Now I can finally terminate the Executioner once and for all. My new nickname for this fight will be - The Terminato.

Danny Garcia vs Ashley Theopane - Feb 26 on ESPN FNF

LOS ANGELES, February 8 - Unbeaten Philadelphia phenom Danny "Swift" Garcia will begin 2010 with his toughest fight to date on Friday, February 26 when he squares off against British veteran Ashley Theopane in the 10-round junior welterweight co-main event of ESPN's "Friday Night Fights" at the Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas. Also on the February 26 card - which is headlined by the 10-round featherweight battle between El Paso favorite Antonio Escalante and Juarez's Mickey Roman - will be bouts featuring top Texas prospects Jermell Charlo and Omar Figueroa, Mexico's Luis Enrique Grajeda and Uganda's Sharif Bogere.

Kid Chocolate Victorious in Long Awaited Return

boxingby Geoffrey Ciani @ Ringside - Undefeated middleweight prospect Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin was last seen inside the ring over sixteen months ago. A series of injuries have kept the 26 year old pugilist out of action. Last night, on the Tomasz Adamek-Jason Estrada under card, Quillin finally made his long awaited return to the ring. He squared off against Fernando “Little Ali” Zuniga in a ten round contest.

It was an overall good performance from Quillin. He was able to win virtually every round. Although he was rusty and his timing seemed a bit off, he did what he needed to do to win. He exhibited good speed, solid defense, and nice movement. More importantly, he was patient and did not over commit. Considering the long layoff, he made a very nice account of himself.

This was the fourth time I attended a live Quillin fight. His other three wins that I saw were all by knockout. He defeated Thomas Brown via second round knockout and it took him just one round to finish off David Estrada and Steve Walker. Despite the explosive nature of those victories, I was more impressed by this performance.

News: Glen Johnson; Boxeo Telemundo; Chevelle Hallback; More

“THE ROAD WARRIOR” HITS HALF-CENTURY MARK IN WINS, LOOKS FORWARD TO 2010 TITLE SHOT - HOLLYWOOD, FL, February 8 - It’s one of modern boxing’s most coveted milestones, and on Friday, February 5th, former world light heavyweight champion Glen Johnson his 50 wins in spectacular fashion, stopping fellow contender Yusaf Mack in six rounds at the NSU Arena in Fort Lauderdale to improve to 50-13-2 with 34 knockouts as a professional.

“This is a great moment for me and it came with a lot of hard work and dedication,” said Johnson. “What made it even better for me was that I was able to get this win in front of my family and friends in South Florida, the people who have been in my corner all these years..

News: Manny Pacquiao; Honorio vs Hilario; Hernandez vs. Nunez

LOS ANGELES (February 11, 2010) – Seven-division world champion, Congressional candidate and boxing’s No. 1 pound for pound fighter and box office attraction MANNY “PacMan” PACQUIAO will be hosting a Valentine’s Fans Day This Sunday! February 14, beginning at 1 p.m., at the Embassy Suites Hotel Los Angeles-Glendale (800 North Central Avenue, Glendale, Calif. 91203.) "Over 1,000 fans are expected to attend one of Manny’s final major public appearances in Los Angeles before he heads to Dallas to defend his World Boxing Organization welterweight title against former world champion and current No. 1 contender Joshua Clottey," said Ami Almerol of Silver Shadow Promotions, who is organizing the Pacquiao Valentine's Fan Day.

Ibragimov Stops Tamim In Three Rounds

boxingby Pavel Yakovlev - (2/6/10) - Timur Ibragimov kayoed Awadh Tamim in three rounds in a heavyweight bout today. Tamim was knocked down twice in the third before referee Jon Schorle ended the match at 2:15 of the round.

Tamim (11-2; six kayos), 224 ¾ lbs, was simply out of his league against the vastly more experienced Ibragimov. The powerfully built Tanzanian fought aggressively in the first round, apparently hoping to catch Ibragimov cold. But Ibragimov was prepared for his opponent’s blitzkrieg tactics, and efficiently eluded Tamim’s combinations. Near the end of the round, Ibragimov rattled Tamim was hard counter punches, which seemed to drain the Tanzanian’s strength.

By the third round, Ibragimov (27-2-1; 15 kayos) was on the hunt. The brave but outgunned Tamim was soon trapped on the ropes and obliterated by the Uzbekistani’s combinations.

Ibragimov weighed 222 ½ lbs, and he is now fighting regularly since ending his contract with Don King Productions last year. Ibragimov acquired the vacant IBA Intercontinental heavyweight title as a result of today’s win.

Canadian Boxing: Lemieux, Trupish, DeLaronde, Ngoudjo, Valdez, Cermak, Emerge Victorious Saturday Night

By G. M. Ross – It was a busy Saturday night for Canadian boxing fans, with cards at the Montreal Casino, in Montreal, Quebec, and the Shaw Conference Centre, in Edmonton, Alberta. Some of the nation’s top boxers, including David Lemieux, Jason Naugler, Herman Ngoudjo, Jason DeLaronde, Omar Valdez, James Cermak and Adam Trupish, were in action, accompanied by three Canadian newcomers.

At the Montreal Casino, GYM promotions provided yet another excellent night of fights, featuring a showdown for the Canadian super middleweight title between the undefeated knockout machine David Lemieux of Montreal and former Canadian light heavyweight champion Jason Naugler of Bridgewater, Nova Scotia. Naugler came into the contest riding a four fight losing streak, including his first ever knockout defeat at the hands of Chicago prospect Don George.

Night Of The Champions: James DeGale; Mendoza vs Mitchell; Chisora vs Baker

James DeGale says fighting at home for the first time on Saturday means he'll get a perfect preparation - a cup of tea and an afternoon in front of the telly. DeGale, the 2008 Olympic middleweight champion, boxes at Wembley Arena on February 13, his first fight in London since his success in Beijing. For his five previous professional outings, DeGale has boxed up and down the country - but is now relishing his big home coming on Frank Warren's Night of the Champions. "I can't wait to show all my fans, friends and family just what I can do," said the 23-year-old.

"And what's even better is that I can put my feet up in my own front room on the day of the fight.

Post Fight Quotes from Adamek - Estrada

AdamekIn front of an exuberant crowd of 10,123 predominantly Adamek Fans, Tomasz Adamek defeated Jason Estrada in a 12 Round decision, to retain the IBF Heavyweight International Heavyweight title. The official scores were 115-113, 116-112 and 118-110, all in favor of Adamek.

Post Fight Quotes From Jason Estrada: “If everyone in this room were completely honest with themselves you would all admit that I got robbed. I mean I got played. I might as well have had a gun pointed to my head.”

“At best I give Adamek three of the twelve rounds. I seriously think the last judge doesn’t need to judge anymore.”

“Yeah I’m angry. I fought my a_ _ off. I trained harder than I ever have. I was in the best shape I’ve ever been in. People talked about me possibly running out of gas, but I never did. All he (Adamek) did was run.

News: Raymond Gatica; CES Boxing; Derrik Ennis

February 13, 2010, the Las Vegas Hilton will be the site of a great night of boxing as Top Rank, Inc.promotes a great Pay Per View fight card featuring “The Filipino Flash” Nonito Donaire defending his Super-Flyweight title against Mexican banger, Gerson Guerrero. The under card bouts feature many proven veterans and up-and-coming prospects.

News: Roy Jones; Coy Evans; Fight Night 2010

Pensacola, FL, February 8, 2010 -- One day after the New Orleans Saints historic Super Bowl victory over the heavily favored Indianapolis Colts, Roy Jones Jr. reflected back to that August day he was invited to the Saints’ training camp by Head Coach Sean Payton and delivered a speech to the team, which turned into a pep talk for the upcoming season.

Edwin Valero, Carlos Abregu Remain Unbeaten

ValeroMONTERREY, Mexico (Feb. 7, 2010) – In a sterling performance, Edwin Valero of Venezuela improved to 27-0 with 27 knockouts and retained the World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight title with a dominant ninth-round TKO over WBC interim titleholder Antonio DeMarco (23-2-1, 17 KOs) of Tijuana, Mex., Saturday in the main event on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on SHOWTIME®.

World-ranked welterweight Carlos Abregu of Salta, Argentina, upped his record to 29-0 (23 KOs) with a clear-cut, 10-round unanimous decision over Miami-based Colombian Richard Gutierrez (24-4, 14 KOs) in the co-feature at Arena Monterrey.

The event, promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, LLC, was the first SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast to emanate from Mexico in nearly 12 years and the first in Monterrey in more than 15.

Valero, who resides in Las Vegas, showed he was anything but one-dimensional as he outfought and, somewhat shockingly, outboxed the tentative and outclassed DeMarco while controlling all the rounds in a one-sided battle of southpaws.

Charlotte Boxing/MMA Bouts a Big Hit

By Dick Landis: Tommy Hill's Red Leather Promotions staged a mixed bag of fisticuffs Saturday evening at the Bette Rae Thomas Recreational Center in Charlotte, NC. The agenda featured four pro boxing contests along with five amateur mixed martial arts battles.

Among the sizeable fight crowd was a large contingent of fans showing their support for popular lightweight prospect Dominic DeSanto of Spencer, NC. Fighting up in class, DeSanto made it a quick night's work landing with crackling right and left hooks to score a second round TKO at 2:23 over Tabron Farmer of Wilson, NC.

Floyd Mayweather Says All Future Fights Should Have Random Drug Testing

by James Slater - Now that his super-fight with "Sugar" Shane Mosley is at long last signed and sealed, Floyd "Money" Mayweather has started giving interviews again. Speaking exclusively to SKY Sports yesterday, the soon-to-be-33-year-old had quite a lot to say - and not only about the upcoming May 1st fight we are all looking forward to.

Mayweather told Sky he is "very excited" about the fight, and that he has been hanging with members of his team, talking game-plans and tactics before he gets ready to go into camp. "Money" also spoke about the steroids Mosley was caught using, and how he feels all future fights should have to adhere to the random drug testing the May 1st fight is being fought under.

Adamek decisions Estrada, fails to impress

AdamekBy Ken Neir: Former IBF cruiserweight champion Tomasz Adamek (40-1, 27 KO’s) looked far from impressive as he labored to a hard fought 12 round unanimous decision on Saturday night against 2004 U.S. Olympian Jason Estrada (16-3, 4 KO’s) at the Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey. Adamek, 32, came into the fight weighing an all time high of 220, and fought as if the weight was a problem for him. The final judges’ scores were 118-110, 116-112, and 115-113. Adamek took a great deal of punishment from the light-hitting Estrada, and seemed to be unable to get out of the way of any of Estrada’s shots.

It’s fortunate that Estrada wasn’t a huge puncher, because chances are he would have stopped Adamek if he had a little more power behind his shots. Despite being noted as a puncher while fighting in the light heavyweight and cruiserweight divisions, Adamek’s punches appeared weak in comparison to Estrada’s shots.

Adamek made up for his lack of power by throwing a lot of punches, which enabled him to stay in control of the fight. However, it still was a very close fight and had Estrada thrown more punches in the last five rounds, he would have likely taken the fight. Adamek’s face was forced to take the full brunt of Estrada's shots, as Adamek appeared to block a lot of Estrada’s punches with his face instead of his gloves.

Valero stops DeMarco!

World Boxing Council lightweight champion Edwin Valero (27-0, 27 KO's) chalked up his 27th straight knockout tonight in stopping WBC interim champion Antonio DeMarco in a 9th round TKO tonight. The bout was stopped by DeMarco's corner after the 9th round. Valero wore DeMarco out, punishing him with heavy shots round after round. By the 7th round, DeMarco was mainly just taking punishment and not really throwing anything back of substance. In the 8th and 9th, Valero battered DeMarco at will, raining shots down on him. DeMarco lost a point in the 2nd round for cutting Valero with an elbow. Besides that, DeMarco did very little in the fight and looked tentative for the most part.

Glen Johnson Stops Yusef Mack, Who’s Next?

By John G. Thompson - Glen “The Road Warrior” Johnson 50-13-2 (34 KO’s) showed why at the tender age of forty-one he still belongs in the upper echelons of the light heavyweight division with his sixth round TKO win over Yusef Mack 28-3-2. The former champion Johnson showed not age but beauty in setting a fast pace while also restraining himself at times, giving himself time to think and put down his opponent.

In the under card, highly decorated Cuban stars Guillermo Rigondeaux 5-0 (4 KO’s) and Yudel Jhonson 5-0 (3 KO’s) each scored first round knockouts against their opponents Adolfo Landeros 20-13-1 and Dorian Beaupierre 12-6-2. Neither opponent had any business being in the ring with these two Olympic medallists, Landeros having lost six of his last eight fights, and Beaupierre having taken the fight on eleven days notice and not having been in the ring since 2006. While Rigondeaux and Jhonson looked spectacular, they were meant to, and they should both be facing stiffer competition.

Karl Mildenberger: Germany’s Second Greatest Heavyweight Ever

Mildenbergerby Pavel Yakovlev - Today, Germany is the world’s center of professional heavyweight boxing. The sport’s long-term dominant heavyweights, Vladimir and Vitali Klitschko, have fought nearly their entire careers in Germany. German promotional houses Sauerland Events and Universum Boxing Promotions are now so influential that the most powerful American promoters – who once had no competition --cooperate with them to stage mega events in that country.

Naturally, Germany’s emergence as a boxing powerhouse over the past two decades has heightened the profile of the late Max Schmeling, the legendary German boxer who was the world heavyweight champion in the 1930s. Media articles on German boxing often include reverential remarks about Schmeling, who is unquestionably the greatest native-born German heavyweight of all time.

Schmeling’s Olympian status in German boxing history, however, has had the effect of causing the public and media to overlook the accomplishments of Germany’s second greatest native-born heavyweight in history. That man is Karl Mildenberger, who was formidable enough to be a top contender in the competitive 1960s era, and who was sufficiently talented to fight a heroic losing effort against Muhammad Ali, whom many consider to be the greatest heavyweight of all.

Mildenberger’s achievements are considerable. He was the first southpaw to fight for the world heavyweight title. From 1964 to 1968, Mildenberger held the European heavyweight title, which he successfully defended six times. During this period Mildenberger was always ranked in the worldwide top ten by Ring Magazine. He finished his professional career with an impressive record of 53-6-3 (19 kayos).

Ennis Defeats Vasquez At The Blue Horizon

Despite warnings of two plus feet of snow, it was standing room only at The Legendary Blue Horizon and those fans who braved the elements were rewarded with one of the most action filled boxing cards that was reminiscent of the days that made The Legendary Blue Horizon the world’s number one boxing venue. This night was part of the annual Valentine’s Day Special show promoted by Vernoca L. Michael and Blue Horizon Boxing Inc.

Booth Stops Marsh On Cut, Johanneson Returns With A Win

by James Slater - There was plenty of good action last night in the Nottingham show headlined by British super-bantamweight champion Jason "Too Smooth" Booth. 32-year-old Booth, defending his British title for the third time, won the coveted Lonsdale belt outright, as he won an 11th-round TKO over a very game Matthew Marsh.

Booth, from Nottingham, had a very tough fight on his hands, as he was cut, floored and outboxed in the first half of the exciting affair. Finally, much to the dismay of 27-year-old Marsh and his fans, Booth got the win at 59-seconds of the 11th-round - as the ringside doctor stopped the fight due to the nasty cut Marsh had above his right eye.

Freddy Hernandez, Francisco Contreras Are KO Winners

boxingSANTA YNEZ, Calif. (Feb. 6, 2010) – With one sudden, dramatic right hand, once-beaten Freddy “El Riel’’ Hernandez (28-1, 19 KOs) of Lynwood, Calif. broke open an entertaining, dead-even fight to brutally knock out former world champion DeMarcus “Chop Chop’’ Corley (36-13-1, 21 KOs) of Washington, D.C., at 1:48 of the fifth round Friday in the main event on ShoBox: The New Generation on SHOWTIME®.

In the co-feature at Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, Calif., power-punching, undefeated Dominican Francisco Contreras (13-0, 12 KOs), of Livingston, N.J., registered a 1:38, first-round knockout over Juan Castaneda, Jr. (16-3, 12 KOs), of La Paz, Mexico, in a scheduled eight-round junior welterweight bout.

The three judges had the Hernandez-Corley scheduled 10-round welterweight scrap scored 38-apiece entering the fifth round.

A former World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior welter belt-holder, Corley vowed going in to take the fight to Hernandez and he did. He cut the No. 14-ranked contender in the World Boxing Council (WBC) around both eyes and his experience created a lot of problems for the native of Mexico City.

Michael Katsidis Calls Out Juan Diaz

By Michael Katsidis: Today I propose a challenge to to Juan Diaz ! This is your lifeline ! Lets play who wants to be a Millionare !

It is your turn to phone a friend, call Golden boy and lets make this happen ! Since our last fight I have regained the WBO light weight championship of the world !

There has been talk for a bout against Robert Gurrero, a junior lightweight with little interest to me and nothing to gain !

Exclusive Interview With Boxing Promoter Tom Tsatas

by James Slater - Tom Tsatas, former long-time manager of heavyweight contender Fres Oquendo, is now a promoter. The new head of Hitz Boxing, Tom is looking towards putting on great, value for money shows for the fans.

Tsatas' maiden show as promoter takes place on the 20th of this month, with Oquendo headlining (there will also be a big name on the under-card) and all involved expect a great night.

Very kindly taking the time to talk with me earlier today, Tom spoke about some of the ideas he has for giving boxing fans better quality shows.

Tomasz Adamek vs. Jason Estrada Weigh-In & Prediction

adamek vs estradaby Geoffrey Ciani - Heavyweight contenders Tomasz Adamek and Jason Estrada are all set to square off tomorrow night at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. At today’s weigh-in, Adamek came in at 220.5 pounds while Estrada weighed 237. Both pugilists appeared in good shape and ready to do battle.

Both camps are extremely confident their side will emerge victorious. Estrada has made no secret of his belief that Adamek is making a mistake. Jason and his father/trainer, Roland, both feel that Adamek is too small for the heavyweight division. They believe his win over Golota was the result of Golota being way past his prime and do not feel this win should act as justification for Adamek stepping into the ring with Estrada. On the other side, Team Adamek is confident that their man is well suited for a run in the heavyweight division. In fact, there is already talks of an April showdown with heavyweight contender Chris Arreola should Adamek win this fight, and should he get by that challenge, it is even conceivable that Adamek will be in line for a title shot later this year.

Joseph Agbeko promises to beat Vusi Malinga on April 16

By Prince Dornu-Leiku - Former IBF Bantamweight champion Joseph King Kong Agbeko will fly out of the country to the USA shortly to begin final preparations for his next fight against South African Vusi Malinga on April 16. The bout serves as an eliminator for the IBF title which Agbeko lost to Yohnny Perez in his last fight in 2009 and the Ghanaian is taking no chances at all, even if he will face Malinga in front of the South African fighter’s own countrymen.

Steven Seagal Meets Manny Pacquiao

Photo: BWAA Fighter of the Decade MANNY "PacMan" PACQUIAO (r) presents Hollywood action hero STEVEN SEAGAL with a hand-painted commemorative boxing glove featuring the likeness of PacMan.

HOLLYWOOD, CALIF (February 5, 2010) – STEVEN SEAGAL, one of Hollywood’s most popular box office action heroes and the star of A&E’s wildly-popular reality series Steven Seagal Lawman, was a dinner guest of seven-division world champion and three-time Fighter of the Year MANNY "Pacman" PACQUIAO earlier this week.

'Call Em Out Fridays': Mayweather/Mosley - Lights, Camera, Action....

floyd mayweather jr.By Vivek Wallace - As long as many of us can remember, the month of March has been synonymous with college basketball. For the first time in a long time, the world of sports will offer a variable to the popular "March Madness", starting with a 'Final Four' that none of us had any idea we'd ever actually see. All around the world fight fans were far less than happy, some even pledging to ditch the sport altogether, as a result of the broken negotiations between P4P contenders Floyd Mayweather jr. and Manny Pacquiao. The old adage states that "you must go through the rain to reach the rainbow". There was never a more reciprocal element displayed of this statement than the one that recently played out in the world of boxing. After all the hype, drama, and eccentrics to follow, the final product of those flat-lined negotiations is a stellar showdown in Dallas Cowboys Stadium between Filipino Manny Pacquiao and Ghana native Joshua Clottey, followed by a showdown between American Floyd Mayweather jr. and a man who needs little introduction.......American 'Sugar' Shane Mosley. A closer analysis shows us that college hoops isn't the only sport to play a role in this first half of the 2010 calendar year in boxing, as despite the late arrival, an April showdown between Bernard Hopkins and Roy Jones Jr. clearly tips a hat to two men once referred to as the 'Masters'. Granted, most would rather pass on this late-to-bloom showdown, but sticking to the 'Masters' wordplay, perhaps the true link here (as it relates to this welterweight eliminator), is one intricate piece which remains missing from the mega fight landscape - a man who resides in the city which gave birth to the tournament itself, Paul Williams of Augusta, GA.

News: Vasquez vs Sonsona; Cristian Mijares; Eric Hunter

HOBOKEN, N.J. (Feb. 5, 2010) –Unbeaten Wilfredo “WV2” Vazquez, Jr., the proud son of 2-time world champion Wilfredo Vazquez, Sr., plans to make Puerto Rican history Feb. 27 when he fights the 19-year-old being billed in the Philippines as the next Manny Pacquaio, “Marvelous” Marvin Sonsona, for the vacant World Boxing Organization (WBO junior featherweight title, headlining one of two sensational shows airing on pay-per-view in North America.

Lucian Bute-Edison Miranda Set For April 17th - Expect Fireworks!

by James Slater - Power-punching Colombian Edison Miranda was all set to challenge Germany's Robert Stieglitz for the WBO super-middleweight title back in January, only to have to pull out of the fight due to a bout of flu. But "Pantera," as the exciting Miranda is known, has walked right into an even bigger world title fight.

It has been confirmed on ESPN.com that the 29-year-old with the impressive 33-4(29) record will challenge Lucian Bute for the undefeated Canadian's IBF 168-pound title. The fight will take place in Montreal, Canada, on April 17th and HBO will televise live. As exciting as this fight is, there are even more exciting plans afoot for that same night, though.

Eddie Chambers: “I’m going to come home heavyweight champion of the world”

Eddie Chambersby Geoffrey Ciani - This past week’s edition of On the Ropes featured exclusive interviews with Eddie Chambers, Jason Estrada, Roland Estrada, and Jesse Brinkley. Highlighting this episode was a nice conversation with the number one ranked heavyweight, Eddie Chambers, who is slated to challenge Wladimir Klitschko for his WBO and IBF heavyweight championship belts. Here are some excerpts from the Chambers interview:

On his recent victory against then undefeated heavyweight contender, Alexander Dimitrenko:
“The performance was pretty good. I give myself about a solid B, and the reason is because there were things I was doing in this here fight and it wouldn’t fly with Wladimir. I was standing in front of him too much, my legs were too straight and stiff, and I didn’t move as much as I should have been moving both to the target and away from the target.”

Regarding how the Dimitrenko fight has helped prepare him for Wladimir Klitschko:
“I think that Dimitrenko’s only thing was he wasn’t as strong. I guess that would mean his physical attributes weren’t up to par with Wladimir, but his ability, his boxing skills, his speed, his movement were—I don’t want to say more so than Wladimir, but at least on par with what he had. It’s just that he didn’t have the experience and he wasn’t ready for what I was bringing to the table.

News: Contreras vs Castaneda Jr; Whitfield vs Espinoza; Couser vs Hanks

SANTA YNEZ, CA (February 5, 2010) Undefeated junior welterweight prospect Francisco “THE PHENOM” Contreras hits Southern California this Friday night, February 5th, to battle Juan Castaneda Jr. at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, California in the opening bout of ShoBox: The New Generation on Showtime (11pm ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast). Signed to the rapidly growing, international boxing promoter, TKO Boxing Promotions, the 25 year old Contreras, 12-0-0 (11KO’s), a native of the Dominican Republic, burst onto the US boxing scene last year with a brutal first round stoppage of Gustavo Mejia on June 18th in front of a stunned crowd at Michael’s Eighth Avenue, outside of Baltimore.

Will Jason Estrada Spoil Tomasz Adamek's Big Plans? - Adamek Vs. Estrada Tomorrow!

by James Slater - Former IBF cruiserweight champion Tomasz Adamek of Poland, 39-1(27) has big plans. Now campaigning as a heavyweight, the 33-year-old, who stopped countryman Andrew Golota inside five-rounds in his debut at the new weight back in October, has his eyes on top contender Chris Arreola and reigning heavyweight champions the Klitschko brothers.

It's no secret how "Goral" and his team are looking ahead to a fight with Arreola in April (RingTV.com has an article up now, reporting how the fight is in negotiations), yet this is before the 34-1(18) tough guy has even won his next fight - taking place tomorrow against former Olympian and natural heavyweight Jason "Big Six" Estrada.

Valero, DeMarco Weigh-In Photos

valero vs demarcoNOTE: WEIGHTS (Feb. 5, 2010) – World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight champ Edwin Valero and WBC 135-pound interim titleholder Antonio DeMarco both weighed in at 135 pounds during Friday’s weigh in the Arena Monterrey in Monterrey, Mexico. The hard-hitting Valero will face the once-beaten DeMarco in the main event this Saturday, Feb. 6, on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast) from the Arena Monterrey in Monterrey, Mexico.

Valero (26-0, 26 KOs), of Merida, Venezuela, is a two-time champ who has knocked out 100 percent of his opponents. He will be making the second defense of his WBC title against Tijuana’s Demarco (23-1-1, 17 KOs).

In the 10-round co-feature, Luis Carlos Abregu (28-0, 23 KOs), of Salta, Argentina will meet Richard Gutierrez (24-3, 14 KO’s), of Miami, Florida, via Arjona, Colombia, in a welterweight bout. Both Abregu and Gutierrez weighed in at the 147 pound welterweight limit.

Bernard Hopkins - Roy Jones II Tickets

LAS VEGAS, NV (February 4) . . . Tickets for the long awaited rematch of future Hall of Famers Bernard "The Executioner" Hopkins and Roy "The Terminator" Jones Jr. go on sale tomorrow, Friday, February 5 at 10:00 a.m. PT. The Rivals: Hopkins vs. Jones II is set for Saturday, April 3 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nev. and will be broadcast live on pay-per-view beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Tickets priced at $750, $500, $300, $200 and $100 go on sale TOMORROW, Friday, February 5 at 10:00 am PT and will be available for purchase at all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations (select Smith's Food and Drug Centers and Ritmo Latino). Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.mandalaybay.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

News: Sergiy Dzinziruk; Mike Jones; Al Bernstein

NEW YORK (February 4, 2010) – Arthur Pelullo and Gary Shaw, presidents of Banner Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions, respectively, announced the signing of undefeated World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior middleweight world champion SERGIY “Razor” DZINZIRUK to an exclusive promotional agreement. Boasting matinee idol looks, Dzinziruk (36-0, 22 KOs), the division’s longest-reigning champion, is a native of Ukraine currently fighting out of Hamburg, Germany. He captured the WBO title in 2005, sending defending champion Daniel Santos to the canvas in the eighth round en route to a unanimous decision victory and the world championship belt.

Exclusive Interview With "Fast" Fres Oquendo - "I'm Eager To Mix It Up With Either Of The Klitschkos"

boxingby James Slater - 36-year-old "Fast" Fres Oquendo, the former two-time heavyweight title challenger, is set to get back in action in Indiana on February 20th. Hoping to get one more crack at a world title, the 31-5(20) contender who has been in with top names such as Evander Holyfield and James Toney (who many people thought Fres beat on points a while back) wants to challenge one of the Klitschko brothers.

Taking his upcoming fight with 25-year-old Demetrice King very seriously, Oquendo would like nothing more than to get in with one of the two brothers right after this bout. First, though, he must beat King - a man who has bee stopped just once as a pro.

Very kindly taking the time to speak with me earlier today, Fres gave the following answers to my questions:

News: Adamek-Estrada; Maurice Harris; Andy Kolle

The Adamek - Estrada fight is on! There was barely a dusting of snow in Newark, NJ, the streets are clear. Tickets in the lower bowl have completely sold out, but Prudential Center will continue to open up sections of $53 seats as long as there is a demand.

Freddie Roach Says Pacquiao Will KO Clottey - Is Freddie Wrong For Once?

by James Slater - Ace trainer Freddie Roach is well known for being a guy who meticulously studies all upcoming opponents for his fighters, and also for having a quite uncanny knack for accurately predicting the outcome of bouts featuring fighters he works with. And, as is to be expected, Roach has recently been spending his time putting Joshua Clottey - next, of course, for his "star pupil," Manny Pacquiao - under the microscope. Freddie has also come out with another prediction that seems pretty hard to accept, but, due to his track record, may well prove to be spot on.

Roach has been watching tons of Clottey on tape, and he is sure his man will not only beat the tough nut from Accra, Ghana; but he has also predicted Manny Pacquiao will KO the former IBF welterweight champ - becoming the first man to have done so. While a good number of fans will no doubt agree with Roach on his first assessment - that Pac-Man will defeat Clottey on March 13th - some fans may not be in the mood to take Freddie at his word on the second statement he's made.

Rigondeaux donating Friday's purse to Children of Haiti Fund

boxingLOS ANGELES (Feb. 4, 2010) – Two-time Olympic champion Guillermo “El Chacal” Rigondeaux, arguably the greatest amateur boxer of all-time, is showing more of his personal side with an announcement that he is donating his entire purse from this Friday night’s fight to the Children of Haiti Fund. Rigondeaux (4-0, 3 KOs), fighting as a super bantamweight, now lives in Los Angeles after defecting from Cuba, where he was a 7-time national champion. The 28-year-old southpaw also won multiple World Championships titles, as well as a gold medal at the 2003 Pan-Am Games, during his incredible 243-4 amateur career.

“Rigo,” who is trained by Freddie Roach and managed by Gary Hyde, faces Adolfo Landeros (20-12-1) in an 8-round bout on ESPN Friday Night Fights, live from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

“Guillermo’s gentle, caring heart will be full of fire Friday night for his fifth pro fight,” Irishman Hyde said. “He really wants to win impressively on ESPN. He definitely hasn’t let fame and all of the attention he’s received to go his head. ‘Rigo’ hasn’t forgotten the poverty he comes from. Hopefully, his thoughtful donation will encourage others to follow suit..

Governing Body Ratings Explored – A Quantitative Study

By Harry Walklin - Boxing’s four principle world governing bodies; the World Boxing Council (WBC), World Boxing Association (WBA), World Boxing Organisation (WBO) and the International Boxing Federation (IBF) often list a diverse range of fighters in their rankings and one body’s rankings are often considerably different from that of the next. It can be argued that a fighter’s inclusion and position in these rankings is of vital importance as on the most part it corresponds to their opportunity to fight for a world championship, and the respect, recognition and financial remuneration that comes hand in hand with doing so.

The 2010 USA Boxing National Championships Return to Colorado Springs, July 12-17

(COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO.) – The USA Boxing National Championships, the premier amateur boxing event in the United States, will return to Colorado Springs, Colo., July 12-17, for the 2010 edition. Over 200 of the nation’s top Olympic-style boxers in both the male and female divisions will compete in the tournament, which is being presented by the Daniels Fund and co-hosted by the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation.

Exclusive Interview With Earnie Shavers - "Today's Heavyweights Aren't As Dedicated"

ernie shaversby James Slater - Right now, as we speak, two heavyweight legends are enjoying each other's company, as they reunite in Tulsa, Oklahoma. For former rivals James Tillis and Earnie Shavers are at the Tillis household, there to celebrate the lifetime achievement award James is to soon be given by the catBox group.

Shavers, who lost a decision to "Quick" in 1982, was kind enough to come to the phone from James' house earlier today, to give me the following interview.

Here is what the man who shared the ring with, amongst others, Muhammad Ali, Larry Holmes, Joe Bugner, Ken Norton, Jimmy Young and Jimmy Ellis had to say:

James Slater: Wow, it's a surprise pleasure to speak with you, Earnie! You are at James Tillis' house now, to see him receive an award?

Earnie Shavers: Yes, I'm a James' house here in Oklahoma now. He deserves that award (from the catBox Group) that was one great fight we had in Vegas in '82.

Samuel Vargas Makes Pro Debut Saturday In Montreal

MONTREAL, CANADA (February 5, 2010) Colombian amateur Samuel Vargas will make his pro debut against Todd Furler, this Saturday, February 6th at the Montreal Casino in Quebec, Canada in a scheduled four round welterweight bout. Born in Bogota, Colombia, Vargas immigrated to Canada at age 16 in search of a better life. Arriving in Toronto , Vargas started boxing under the guidance of famed Canadian trainer Chris Johnson. Hitting the sparring ring against world class professionals including Steve Molitor, Logan McGuinness and Andrew Singh Kooner, Vargas quickly earned the respect of his peers.

Jones Jr vs Hopkins: The case for Roy Jones

by Stuart Young - Now Hopkins Vs Jones II has finally been signed & sealed after years of speculation, hype, argument & counter-argument between the two respective camps we can now look ahead to the fight & try to determine the winner.

Scheduled for the Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, on 3rd April, the rematch arrives some 17 years after the original bout where a youthful, flashy & brilliant Roy Jones outpointed a rather ‘green’ Bernard Hopkins back in '93 in a clash for the vacant IBF middleweight title.

Valero, DeMarco Final Presser Quotes From Mexico, Saturday's World Title Fight

boxingThe always-exciting Edwin Valero will defend his World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight title against undefeated, once-beaten WBC 135-pound interim titleholder Antonio DeMarco in the main event this Saturday, Feb. 6, on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast).

The undefeated knockout artist and two-time world champion Valero (26-0, 26 KOs), of Merida, Venezuela will be making the second defense of his WBC title against Tijuana’s Demarco (23-1-1, 17 KOs), the WBC Interim Champion at the Arena Monterrey located in Mexico.

In the 10-round co-feature, Luis Carlos Abregu (28-0, 23 KOs), of Salta, Argentina will meet Richard Gutierrez (24-3, 14 KO’s), of Miami, Florida, via Arjona, Colombia, in a welterweight bout. The event is promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, LLC and will take place during the celebration of the bicentennial of Mexico’s Independence.

What the fighters and their respective promoters had to say at Wednesday’s final press conference:

Video: Arthur Abraham - Sven Ottke: Sparring For Andre Dirrell

BERLIN (Feb. 4, 2010) — Two undefeated champions battled it out in the Max-Schmeling-Gym on Wednesday afternoon when King Arthur Abraham welcomed a special sparring partner. In order to prepare for the Super Six World Boxing Classic Group Stage 2 meeting with Andre Dirrell on March 6 (live on SHOWTIME® at 9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast), coach Ulli Wegner had invited former WBA/IBF Super-Middleweight Champion Sven Ottke to challenge Abraham. The “Phantom”, who retired undefeated in 2004, is known for his fast legs and special movements. “Sven can help Arthur in the preparation for Dirrell,” Wegner said. “Arthur will have to track Dirrell down. That´s why sparring with a fast, smart and clever fighter like Sven certainly helps..

Hernandez vs. Corley, Contreras vs. Castaneda final quotes

SANTA YNEZ, Calif. (Feb. 4, 2010) -- Promising Freddy “El Riel’’ Hernandez (27-1, 18 KOs), of Lynwood, Calif., will take on former world champion, southpaw DeMarcus “Chop Chop’’ Corley (36-12-1, 21 KOs), of Washington, D.C., in the 10-round welterweight main event on ShoBox: The New Generation tomorrow/Friday, Feb. 5, on SHOWTIME® (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast). In the co-feature at Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, Calif., hard-hitting, undefeated Dominican Francisco Contreras (12-0, 11 KOs), of Livingston, N.J., should get what definitely will be the toughest test of his career when he faces Juan Castaneda, Jr. (16-2, 12 KOs), of La Paz, Mexico, in an eight-round junior welterweight bout.

Mayweather - Mosley On!

Mosley vs MayweatherLAS VEGAS (February 3, 2010) - It's official. Boxing's biggest superstar and six-time world champion Floyd "Money" Mayweather made his upcoming fight with welterweight mega-star and five-time world champion Sugar Shane Mosley, official today when he signed the contract that pits the two fighters against each other on Saturday, May 1 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas in a mega-bout which will be televised live on HBO Pay-Per-View®.

"This one is definitely for the fans as I wasn't going to waste anyone's time with a meaningless tune-up bout and asked to fight Shane immediately," said Mayweather. "I have said ever since I came back to the sport that I only wanted to fight the best. I think Shane is one of the best, but come May 1, he still won't be great enough to beat me..

Michael Katsidis-Robert Guerrero For Interim WBO Lightweight Belt On March 27th?

by James Slater - There is the quite tantalising possibility that crowd-pleasers Michael Katsidis and Robert Guerrero will clash on March 27th, in a fight that will contest the WBO's interim lightweight title currently held by the man from Australia. Up as happening on BoxRec, Katsidis-Guerrero may also be supported by another potentially exciting fight, in Marcos Maidana defending his interim WBA 140-pound belt against the undefeated Victor Manuel Cayo. A great doubleheader, to be sure; if it happens.

The Katsidis-Guerrero fight has the look of a very good battle. Though the warrior from Toowoomba in Australia had his heart set on a fight with "real" WBO 135-pound champ Juan Manuel Marquez, it looks now as though Amir Khan will get that fight (talks are ongoing for Khan-Marquez to take place, up at 140, on May 15th in Vegas).

UK Boxing: Dodson Slams Smith; Cox Keeps Heat On Brook

Tony Dodson says his British super-middleweight title fight with Paul Smith is "personal". Dodson, 29, challenges Smith on March 12 at the Liverpool Echo Arena in an all-scouse affair. And in a hard-hitting interview he has revealed that he is desperate to beat the man he used to be close friends with.

Dodson says he has been "disrespectful" and "nasty" in the build up to their fight.

"Paul and I go back a long way," said former British champion Dodson. "When I first turned professional he used to come to the gym and lace up my gloves.

Roach: “Amir will do to him [Marquez] what he did to Marco Antonio Barrera”

Juan Manuel MarquezBy Harold Kupel: Freddie Roach, the trainer of World Boxing Association light welterweight champion Amir Khan, is seemingly very confident of the 23-year-old Khan’s chances against Juan Manuel Marquez ahead of their planned May 15th bout. In an article with the Telegraph, Roach says “Amir will do to him [Marquez] what he did to Marco Antonio Barrera in Manchester last year. He’ll [Khan] break him up.”

Khan defeated the 35-year-old Barrera by a 5 round technical decision in March 2009, a fight that pleased few fans because of the ending of it. Khan controlled almost every second of action against the former super featherweight star, but the bout was stopped in the 5th round because of a nasty head butt that opened up a huge cut on Barrera’s forehead. Barrera bled from the 1st round on until the fight was stopped.

Khan needs a victory over an old star like Marquez to help make a name for himself in the United States. Khan has fought his entire career in England, and only recently has decided to come over to the U.S. to try and become a star there.

Haye offers to match Groves with Degale on April 3rd

Hayemaker Boxing have offered Frank Warren Promotions a sum of £50,000 for their super-middleweight prospect James Degale to box George Groves on April 3rd at Manchester’s M.E.N Arena. Should the fight go ahead, Degale’s duel with Groves would act as one of the chief support contests to David Haye’s WBA world heavyweight title defence, live on Sky Box Office. “We are deadly serious about making this fight for April 3rd and believe that we have made a more than fair offer for it to happen,” says Hayemaker Boxing’s Adam Booth.

Maddalone-Alexander, Alvarez-Camacho, Riley-Foster This Saturday

Update: STORM POSTPONES SATURDAY NIGHT ATLANTIC CITY FIGHT CARD TILL MARCH 6TH - In light of the major snow storm expected to hit the Atlantic City area, Tropicana Casino and Resort and Star Boxing have decided to postpone Saturday night's boxing show until Saturday March 6th, noting major concern for the safety of traveling fans, fight participants and the general public welfare. Both are very disappoined that they have had to postpone the show, especially since ticket sales had been so strong. All tickets purchased for the February 6th event will be honored on March 6th. The Tropicana and Star Boxing look forward to seeing everyone at the show on March 6th.

Shane Mosley not worthy? Since when?

shane mosleyBy Coach Tim Walker - An earthquake devastated Haiti a few short weeks ago. Millions were affected that day. Millions more in the subsequent days that have followed. One of those affected considerably was WBC Welterweight champion Andre Berto who was scheduled to face Sugar Shane Mosley on January 30. Berto's body was still training for his showdown but his mind and heart, understandably, were with his family and countryman.

If you know Berto's story then you know that he is born of Haitian ancestry. If you have ever had the opportunity to observe the Haitian community then you know that in spite of their difficulties their community is close. It is this love of family and community that caused Berto to walk away from one of the largest paydays, if not the largest, that he has commanded thus far. This left Mosley in limbo. No opponent. No fight. No options. At least that is what many people thought.

Manny Pacquiao had removed himself from a mega-bout with Floyd Mayweather, in lieu of future litigation, and opted to face the frequently dodged Joshua Clottey.

Is Mayweather Making Mosley Wait?

Robert Jackson: In 1999, when Floyd Jr was 130lb champion he called out 135lb champion Shane Mosley to fight him in what would've been a super fight, Mosley declined!! Fast forward to 2005 after the Henry Bruselles fight a WBC Eliminator to determine who would fight Arturo Gatti next, Floyd was asked by Larry Merchant who he would like to fight next, amongst the names Floyd recited were Kostya Tszyu, Oscar DeLaHoya and Shane Mosley. Once again no rersponse from Mosley or the others for that matter.

A year later following his 2nd victory over Fernando Vargas, Mosley was asked whether he would face Mayweather by HBO host Larry Merchant, Mosley's response he needed to get his teeth fixed and go on vacation.

Booth Ready For Marsh; Weigh-In Video

JASON BOOTH insists he will walk away from boxing a happy man if he wins a London belt outright tomorrow night (5th Feb). Booth, 32, makes the third defence of his super-bantamweight crown when he faces Matthew Marsh (13-1) at Nottingham's Harvey Hadden Centre, meaning the belt will be his for keeps if he wins. It will be his 16th major title fight in a rollercoaster career spanning almost 14 years. Booth says: ""If I could win the Lonsdale belt outright I will have achieved what I wanted to when I started out and I'll be happy with that. I would like to go further, but anything after this is a bonus..

Out With the Old, In With the New

David HayeBy Rik Hine - Without a trace of irony, several boxing writers have announced that the wait is over; Jones-Hopkins II is now official. If you’re a boxing fan, then it's likely that you already know this. Of course if you really are a boxing fan, then you probably won’t much care. Slightly out-waiting the locust, this April 3rd will mark seventeen years since they first shared a ring. And to think that good things are supposed to come to he who waits.

Given that the outcome of this fight is hardly in doubt, there can’t be many reasons for watching it outside of outright sadism. Still, if you’re willing to pay to see this debacle you’re likely a masochist too. Live and let live I suppose.

The slightly more discerning fan might turn his attention to another fight on the same day but the other side of the pond, as David Haye will be seeking to send John Ruiz into retirement. I’m probably not alone in hoping that Haye is successful; I hope I’m not alone in wishing that Jones and Hopkins would take the hint.

This Wednesday: Super Channel To Show Manfredo vs Vanda, Remillard vs Lora

TORONTO, CANADA (February 3, 2010) Canada’s Super Channel will broadcast an evening of action packed professional boxing this Wednesday night, February 3rd, featuring NABF Title bouts between middleweights Peter Manfredo Jr., and Matt Vanda and featherweights Matt Remillard and Rafael Lora in addition to sensational Canadian prospect Arash Usmanee.

Presented by TKO Boxing Promotions and Hennessy Sports, the outstanding card took place at the Mohegan Sun Casino in front of over 6,000 fight fans.

Victor Ortiz-Nate Campbell - Who Wins?

by James Slater - According to Dan Rafael over at ESPN.com, if the possible Amir Khan-Juan Manuel Marquez title fight that is being worked on for May 15th comes off, the plan is for Victor Oriz to face Nate Campbell at light-welterweight in the co-feature. A fascinating prospect, who would win; the big-punching and much younger fighter from Oxnard, or the former world lightweight champion from Florida?

Southpaw Ortiz, who must first defeat Hector Alatorre on February 25th, would have a huge advantage in youth, being just 23 compared to age 37 for "The Galaxxy Warrior"

Big Night Of Boxing Set For April 3rd - Haye-Ruiz And Jones-Hopkins II

roy jones jr.by James Slater - With today's news of how the long awaited rematch between modern day legends Roy Jones Junior and Bernard Hopkins is to take place in Las Vegas on April 3rd, fans can look ahead to a pretty big night of boxing on both sides of the Atlantic that night. As was announced last week, WBA heavyweight champion David Haye will face John Ruiz in Manchester a few hours before the two veterans get it on seventeen years after they first met as middleweights.

Two big fights, then, with plenty of star name involvement. But here's the thing: is there a good chance both fights, as big as they are, will be dull, disappointing affairs? You bet there is.

Ruiz, though tough, capable and durable, has seldom been in an exciting fight, and his tactics of using plenty of holding don't figure to change in the fight with the fast-handed puncher. It's all up to Haye to make this fight exciting, and maybe he can do it, maybe not. But how many fans will be willing to gamble pay-per-view money in the hope the fight will prove to be worth watching?

WBF Mourns Death of Mlungisi Dlamini

The World Boxing Foundation would like to express its condolences to the family of lightweight champion Mlungisi Dlamini who was tragically killed in a car accident last Friday. The “Killer Shark” as he was known in the ring fought and defended his WBF title five times and in recent months was also crowned IBO champion. WBF President Mick Croucher who was personally in attendance at many of Dlamini’s championship fights was deeply saddened upon hearing the news and recalls that “he was a good person and a good fighter and had so much more potential in the ring.“ Dlamini’s outstanding record of 21 wins and 12 knockouts in the ring will however not be forgotten and the WBF joins the boxing world in mourning the loss of a great champion.

Exclusive Interview with Mickey Bey, Jr.

by Geoffrey Ciani - I was recently afforded the opportunity to have a nice chat with undefeated junior lightweight contender Mickey Bey, Jr. The undefeated contender is looking to secure a title shot sometime this year and is determined to make his mark on the boxing landscape. Here is what he had to say:

Q: Mickey, in your last fight against Tyrone Wiggins you won by first round knockout. Can you tell us a little bit about your performance in that fight?

A: Well, actually it was short but the great thing about it was I actually got to knock him out with the punch that me and my trainer were working on, and that was just throwing the right hand over the jab. We’ve been working on the right hand a lot in the gym so I was really happy for that to be the punch that got him out of there.

Exclusive Interview With Oliver McCall - "I Truly Believe I Have What It Takes To Whip The Klitschkos"

boxingby James Slater - Former WBC heavyweight champion Oliver McCall may be 44 years old, but "The Atomic Bull" is as hungry as ever. Still intent on becoming a world champion for a second time, McCall, 54-9(37) fights again on the 16th of this month. Having won his last three fights, the last win being over the huge Lance Whitaker, McCall is on something of a roll.

Training now for his upcoming fight, Oliver, who dreams of a showdown with one of the two Klitschko brothers, very kindly took time out to speak with me after today's workout. Here are the rock-chinned warrior's answers to my questions:

James Slater: It's great to speak with you as always, Champ. Have you had a good training session today?

Oliver McCall: Yes, it was good. I especially enjoyed watching my son train today - I was very impressed with him. Yes, another day done, I feel blessed as always.

J.S: The fans want to see you fight again: when and where will your next fight be, Oliver, and who will it be against?

O.M: I'll be fighting again in two weeks - I'm fighting Zuri Lawrence on February 16th at The Hard Rock (in Hollywood, Florida).

Quotes from Adamek Estrada Presser; Sadam Ali On The Undercard

Kathy Duva, CEO Main Events –“Tomasz has to win against Jason Estrada before he can realize his dream of being the heavyweight champion. It’s a tremendous fight, people are watching it closely. We are delighted to be promoting it.

“A lot of people are asking me why Tomasz took this fight. It is one of those fights where it seems as if we brought in a young guy who pretty much plays to Tomasz’s “not so strengths”; I don’t want to say weaknesses because I don’t think Tomasz has any of those! Jason’s got strength, he’s got speed, he’s got movement.

News: Sergiy Dzinziruk; Mikkel Kessler; Melissa Hernandez

Statement Sergiy Dzinziruk and Universum: Sergiy Dzinziruk: "Universum and i have both agreed to part ways. We have had constructive conversations and have found a way to dissolve my contract. I am grateful to Universum fro my success in recent years and for the ability to become a professional Boxer. Under Klaus-Peter Kohl i became the WBO world Champion and i am extremely grateful to him for that. I would like to stress that the statements made about Universum and me in various media outlets in the past are false and have not originated from me personally. Universum has always been a reliable partner and is one of the world's elite promoters..

Harold Lederman Interview

LedermanBy Mark Pickering - Many boxing fans may not even know what he looks like but his authoritative tones have decorated HBO broadcasts since 1986.

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing author, award winning judge and acclaimed analyst Harold Lederman.

Q: For many you’re the voice of authority on the HBO team - looking back was there a moment when you realised you'd made it as a judge?

A: I started judging Professional Boxing in 1967 after two years of judging amateur boxing and a lot of experience as a fan keeping score at the fights. I knew from day one that I could judge. I was a dedicated judge, and I knew what I was looking at.

Q: What would you say are the most commonly mistaken rules in boxing? Or glaring errors fans and even commentators make?

A: A lot of fans think that if a fighter is being held up by the ropes and the referee calls it a knockdown it is a standing eight. There is no such thing as a standing eight. If you get hit by a legal punch and the ropes prevent you from going down, the ref can rule it the same as if your gloves touched the canvas.

News: Grano vs Brown II; Alvarez vs Camacho; Ismayl Sillak

The rematch between heavyweights Tony “TNT” Grano and Mark “Oak Tree” Brown headlines the March 12 pro boxing card, “Brace For Impact,” presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Sports and Entertainment, Inc. (CES), in Fox Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Conn. Brown (15-2, 7 KOs) overcame two knockdowns to stop Grano, fighting out of Hebron (CT), in the eighth round of their WBF All-Americas title bout Sept. 27, 2008.

Mosley vs Mayweather - Will It Actually Happen!?!

by James Slater - Golden Boy's Richard Schaefer was not a happy man yesterday. The top promoter admitted to ESPN.com that he is concerned the planned May 1st mega-fight between "Sugar" Shane Mosley and Floyd Mayweather Junior may be in "trouble." The reason for the former Swiss banker's consternation is the fact that although WBA 147-pound king Mosley signed the fight contract last Friday, Mayweather has still not signed.

Six Questions With Antonio DeMarco

boxingNEW YORK (Feb. 2, 2010) — A winner of 12 in a row and unbeaten in his last 16 (15-0-1) dating to May 2006, World Boxing Council interim champion Antonio DeMarco (23-1-1, 17 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico, will challenge devastating Venezuelan and WBC lightweight belt-holder, Edwin Valero (26-0, 26 KOs), in the main event this Saturday, Feb. 6, on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

The event at Arena Monterrey will mark the first time a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING broadcast has aired from Mexico since March 7, 1998, when Julio Cesar Chavez boxed a draw with Miguel Angel Gonzalez. It’s the first card on SHOWTIME from Monterrey in more than 15 years, or since Chavez stopped Tony Lopez on Dec. 10, 1994.

SHOWTIME caught up with DeMarco for his thoughts on this Saturday’s scheduled 12-round bout.

Freddy Hernandez Faces Chop Chop Corley In Friday's ShoBox Main Event

NEW YORK (Feb. 3, 2010) – One night before two-time world champion Edwin Valero (26-0, 26 KOs) defends his World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight crown against WBC 135-pound interim titleholder Antonio DeMarco (23-1-1, 17 KOs) in Monterrey, Mexico, on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/PT), once-beaten Freddy “El Riel’’ Hernandez (27-1, 18 KOs), of Lynwood, Calif., will take on former world champion, southpaw DeMarcus “Chop Chop’’ Corley (36-12-1, 21 KOs), of Washington, D.C., in the 10-round welterweight main event on ShoBox: The New Generation on SHOWTIME® (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

Hopkins vs Jones II Official

NEW YORK (February 1) . . . After 17 years the wait is over as sure-fire future Hall of Famers Bernard "The Executioner" Hopkins and Roy "The Terminator" Jones Jr. collide in a long awaited rematch that will add the final chapter to their 17-year rivalry. The Rivals: Hopkins vs. Jones II is set for Saturday, April 3 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nev. The bout will be broadcast live on pay-per-view beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

The fighters will participate in a press tour with stops in New York and Los Angeles next Tuesday and Wednesday, February 9 and 10, respectively.

Eddie Chambers, Jesse Brinkley and Jason Estrada Join On The Ropes Boxing Radio - Ep. 58 LIVE at 6 PM ET!

Klitschko vs Chambersby Jenna J -- Click here to listen to the show -- As always, this week's 58th edition of On the Ropes will start at its regularly scheduled time, 6pm Eastern Time. You can listen live by clicking “play” on the player or enter our chat on the blogtalk message board; you can also call into the show at (646)716-5404.

On the Ropes is is back to bring you the latest and greatest in the world of boxing! Join me Jenna J, the Hostess, along with my brilliant Producer Geoffrey Ciani (aka-Rummy).

Topics for Discussion

· Shane Mosley and Floyd Mayweather reaching an agreement for May 1
· Jesse Brinkley’s upset victory over Curtis Stevens
· Rumored fight between Jesse Brinkley and Lucian Bute
· Talks of a fight between Kelly Pavlik and Sergio Martinez on April 17 or 24

News: Nonito Donaire; Hallback vs Holm; Fight Promoter University

World Boxing Association (WBA) interim super flyweight champion and Top-10 Pound For Pound fighter NONITO “The Filipino Flash” DONAIRE, will host a Las Vegas Media Workout at the Top Rank Gym (3041 Business Lane, Las Vegas, Nev., 89103), Tomorrow! Wednesday, February 3, beginning at Noon PT. The workout will be open to the public. Managed by Cameron Dunkin, Donaire (22-1, 14 KOs), of General Santos City, Philippines, fighting out of San Leandro, Calif., defends his title against top-rated contender Gerson Guerrero (34-8, 26 KOs), of Mexico City, in the main event of “Latin Fury 13 / Pinoy Power 3..

UK Boxing: Carl Johanneson; Woolford vs Mutley; Booth-Munroe?

CARL JOHANNESON ends a ring exile of almost two years when he returns at Nottingham's Harvey Hadden Centre on Friday night (5th Feb) - The Leeds puncher (27-4) faces Youssef Al Hamidi in his first contest since losing the British super-featherweight title against Kevin Mitchell on March 2008. Johanneson, 31, was stopped in nine rounds, but the scrap was a sensational slugfest. And Carl who has 19 inside the distance win has targeted regaining his old title and then stepping up to lightweight and facing Mitchell in a return.

Timur Ibragimov, Dmitry Pirog, And Vitaly Demyanenko Headline A Moscow Card This Saturday

boxingby Pavel Yakovlev (2/1/10) - Heavyweights Timur Ibragimov and Awadh Tamim will finally meet this Saturday, six weeks after their original match was postponed due to a training injury sustained by Ibragimov. The fight is scheduled for 12 rounds, and it is reportedly for regional belts sanctioned by the WBA and IBA.

Tamim (11-1; six kayos) is a heavy underdog against the seasoned Ibragimov. However the fight could prove to be action packed. In a previous appearance in Russia against Denis Bakhtov, Tamim revealed himself to be a swarming, aggressive fighter with a stiff left jab and a strong overhand right. The Tanzanian native has fast hands and is powerfully built, standing 6’1/2” tall, and weighing 230 lbs.

Ibragimov (26-2-1; 14 kayos), although known chiefly as a safety-first technical boxer, can be explosive when he connects with his heavy right hand.

Groundhog Prediction On Pacquiao vs. Clottey

GOBBLER'S KNOB, (Groundhog Day 2010) -- At 7:25 A.M. today, Punxsutawney Phil -- the Seer of Seers, Prognosticator of all Prognosticators -- emerged from his burrow at Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Penn, and proclaimed, in his native Groundhogese, that MANNY "PacMan" PACQUIAO'S dominance over his era’s top fighters would continue with a successful defense of his World Boxing Organization welterweight title against former International Boxing Federation welterweight champion and current No. 1 contender Joshua Clottey on Saturday, March 13, at Jerry Jones’ Cowboys Stadium!

News: Andy Kolle; Jargal vs Leija; Joey Dawejko

Minnesota’s middleweight champion is slated to make his return to the ring this Friday. Andy “Kaos” Kolle (19-2 14 KO’s) will take on power punching Pat “The Cat” Coleman (29-15 20 KO’s) on February 5 at First Avenue in Minneapolis. Kolle is coming off of a highlight reel knockout of Anthony Bonsante in March, and an impressive stoppage of Anthony Shuler in June. Although Kolle has been inactive for six months he insists that February 5th presents an opportunity to not only get back into action, but turn some heads in the Twin Cities.

The Nightmare Diary: Raising the Dead!

Arreola vs MintoBy P.H. Burbridge - The first loss for a professional fighter is always traumatic. It’s especially difficult when you’re a high profile prospect who is seen as a possible future champion. There’s a healthy segment of our fan population who get as much pleasure out of watching a fighter fail as others get enjoyment watching him succeed. When you lose in this sport people are all too happy to dismiss you. With his recent loss to WBC heavyweight champion, Vitali Klitschko, Cristobal “The Nightmare” Arreola (28-1, 25 KO’s) has entered a stage in his career that a lot of fighters never emerge from. “Prospect purgatory” is a phrase I’ve coined to describe fighter’s who once showed great promise but when all is said and done that’s the only thing you remember about them.

Chris Arreola is in danger of having his name added to that list if he doesn’t make some significant and PERMANENT changes.

Marquez Vs. Diaz: 2009 Fight Of The Year

LOS ANGELES, February 1 - The Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA) has spoken, and the verdict is that the February 28, 2009 battle between Juan Manuel "Dinamita" Marquez and Juan "Baby Bull" Diaz is the winner of the 2009 Muhammad Ali-Joe Frazier award for Fight of The Year. "This is a great honor and receiving this award is one of the highlights of my career," said Marquez, who stopped Diaz in the ninth round of their unforgettable war at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas.

Valero Defends WBC Belt Against DeMarco In Mexico This Saturday On SHOWTIME

NEW YORK (Feb. 1, 2010) – SHOWTIME Sports® will present a fight card from Mexico for the first time in nearly 12 years when devastating, undefeated knockout artist and two-time world champion Edwin Valero (26-0, 26 KOs), of Las Vegas, Nev., by way of Merida, Venezuela, defends his World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight crown against streaking, once-beaten WBC 135-pound interim titleholder Antonio DeMarco (23-1-1, 17 KOs) of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, on Saturday, Feb. 6.

'Left-Hook Lounge': Vivek Wallace's mailbag feat. Pacquiao, Mayweather/Mosley, Margarito, Herschel Walker

mayweatherRonald D. (Atlanta, GA): If both Pacquiao and Mayweather win their pending showdowns, who do you think would be the bona fide P4P king of the sport?

Vivek W. (ESB): Many who have followed my work over the years knows full well that I've never been a huge fan of the whole mythical P4P convo because personally, I think it's all in the eyes and minds of the beholder these days. The term P4P as initially designed when used to describe the great 'Sugar' Ray Robinson was a term that explained the greatness of a boxer whose PURE TEXT BOOK FUNDAMENTAL TALENTS would be able to transcend any era in time, regardless of weight, size, or otherwise. In this modern era, the term has been modified to include items such as resume (or wars encountered), guts, and all of this other machismo stuff. While I do think that resume (wars encountered) help us to measure certain aspects of a fighter, I personally subscribe to the old-school text book definition of the term. That being said, someone like a Robinson, Willie Pep, or a Floyd Mayweather jr. would always stack higher on my personal list in their respective era's. To many, the art of war is far more important, and I respect that vision greatly, but while it's a blast to watch, truthfully, how much skill does it really take? If anything, that kinda fight is all guts and durability, which, if we used as the measure of principle, a true P4P list would look more like Glen Johnson, Margarito, and Pavlik, than Robinson, Pep, or James Toney.

Canadian prospect Adonis Stevenson spars Arthur Abraham

Mark Pickering: Undefeated Canadian powerhouse Adonis Stevenson is sharpening his skills as a sparring partner for Super Six front-runner Arthur Abraham who is working towards his second-round meeting with Andre Dirrell on March 6.

Stevenson, who at 32 is three years Abraham’s senior, is a highly-regarded southpaw who is best known for his first-round demolition of veteran Anthony Bonsante in 2008.

Can Odlanier Solis Become The First To KO Carl Davis Drummond?

by James Slater - While fans are keen to see unbeaten Cuban heavyweight Odlanier Solis take a step up in class so they can judge on whether or not the Olympic gold medallist is the real deal or not, they will have to make do with the 29-year-old taking on Carl Davis Drummond in his next outing instead. No disrespect to the 34-year-old from Costa Rica, but fans aren't really going to get too excited at the thought of this fight - set for March 20th in Florida.

Adamek/Estrada Ticket Sales Pack a Heavy Punch

Adamek vs EstradaTicket sales for the February 6th, Tomasz Adamek vs. Jason Estrada, IBF Heavyweight International Championship at Prudential Center, Newark, NJ, have been selling at a record setting pace. The $38 seats sold out early and as of Saturday the $103 seats are also sold out. There are still great seats available. There are a handful of premium Ringside seats available at $253, a small amount of terrific $78 seats, as well as affordable $53 tickets.

"Tickets are selling at an unprecedented pace and we expect a huge, rollicking crowd to come out on Saturday and join in all the fun and excitement”, said Kathy Duva, CEO Main Events.

This fight is promoted by Main Events and Ziggy Promotions in association with Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc. Tickets can be purchased at: Prudential Center Box Office; by calling TicketMaster at 800-745-3000; or visiting www.prucenter.com.

New Year, New Edner

Anthony Ivey: With a new year comes a time for change. A chance to make that perfunctory New Year’s resolution, which most of us waiver on by the time February comes around. For Edner Cherry, the New Year brought a slew of changes. With a new manager, new trainer, as well as new promoter, Cherry will also be competing at a different weight class, jr. lightweight. “It’s a New Year, so everything is new for me,” states Cherry. “I even have a baby on the way any day now.” Cherry, 25-6-2 with 13 KO’s, will see main event action on February 19th at the Al La Carte Pavilion in Tampa, Florida. The card is promoted by Fight Night Productions, as well Cherry’s new promoter, TKO Promotions.

Margarito: No Stairway to Redemption Likely

By "Old Yank" Schneider - If hell has stairways and escalators, then fittingly they operate in only one direction.

The loathsome crime of glove-loading brings out strong emotions -- I cannot hide mine.

Margarito's appearance on the Pacquiao undercard is more than in doubt. Recent developments regarding Margarito's suitability for licensing have been hitting the boxing community like a tidal wave. All of this is an outgrowth due to a foreign substance found in Margarito's gloves before the fight against Shane Mosley a little over a year ago. The foreign plaster-like substance found in Margarito's hand wraps resulted in the California State Athletic Commission revoking Margarito's boxing license for a one-year period (the harshest penalty at the disposal of the commission at the time).

The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre…Sugar Ray Robinson Slaughters The Bronx Bull, Jake LaMotta

r.robinsonBy Dax Ferguson - The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre brings to mind a blood bath day in the Lincoln Park area on Chicago’s North Side in 1929. Factions of Al Capone’s Italian South Side gang raided a warehouse filled with bootleg whiskey. Two of the men were dressed as police officers and two others worn trench coats, concealing Thompson sub machine guns, commonly called Tommy guns. They were anticipating “rubbing out” Bugs Moran, boss of the Irish North Side gang and his gang. The conflict stemmed from bootleg operations and a couple of Capone’s men had been killed.

The four Capone henchmen brought seven men out of the warehouse and lined them up, facing the wall. The Moran men subjected, believing erroneously that the perpetrators were actually Chicago policemen. The four Capone assassins then mercilessly cut down the unwary seven victims, pumping 20 slugs from one Tommy gun and 50 from another, coupled with a couple shotgun blasts into the unsuspecting Moran men.

Nathan Cleverly Adds European Crown To His British And Commonwealth - Next A World Title?

by James Slater - Welshman Nathan Cleverly looked sensational once again last night, as he claimed the vacant European light-heavyweight title with a 5th-round stoppage of experienced former champ Antonio Brancalion of Italy. A big right hand smashed the 34-year-old visitor's head back as he was under fire along the ropes, prompting referee Jean-Louis Legend to dive in and halt the fight at the one-minute and 15-second mark.

22-year-old Cleverly is now 19-0(9). Brancalion is now 32-8-2(8).

Frank Warren's Wembley show of last night was a good one, and it's debatable who stole the show - Cleverly or lightweight talent Kevin Mitchell. One thing is sure, both undefeated fighters have ultra-promising futures.

When he began his pro career, brainy maths student Cleverly was labelled as a relative non-puncher, yet this very idea has been swept aside by the gifted 6.3.5" triple belt-holding boxer.

Kermit Cintron: “Paul Williams would be a huge victory for me”

Kermit Cintronby Geoffrey Ciani - This past week’s edition of On the Ropes featured exclusive interviews with Kermit Cintron, Jason Estrada, Roland Estrada, and Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin. Highlighting this episode was a nice conversation with former IBF welterweight champion, Kermit Cintron. Here are some excerpts from the Cintron interview:

Regarding when he plans to get back in the ring:
“We actually have a fight on May 8 against Paul Williams. We’re still negotiating on that and trying to get the venue and stuff like that, but it seems like it’s a done deal financially. We’re just waiting on where the fight will be at.”

On how he feels campaigning at 154 pounds:
“The weight is fine. I’m a bigger welterweight, I can hold 154 fine, I feel comfortable at it. I’m just looking at whatever weight can get me the best opportunity between 147 and 154.

Kevin Mitchell Destroys Ignacio Mendoza In 2nd-Round - Michael Katsidis Next?

by James Slater - Tonight at Wembley, on Frank Warren's big show, British lightweight star "Mighty" Kevin Mitchell looked nothing short of sensational as he blew away Colombia's Ignacio Mendoza inside just two-rounds. Defending his 135-pound Intercontinental crown, the Londoner landed a smashing right hand to the Spain-based challenger's head, sending him crashing to the mat in a corner. With absolutely no chance whatsoever of beating the count, the visiting fighter was counted out at one-minute and 24-seconds of the 2nd-round.

25-year-old Mitchell is now 31-0(23), 26-year-old Mendoza is 27-6-2(18).

Exclusive Interview With Johnathon Banks - "The Detroit Motto Is To Always Go For The KO!"

Johnathon Banksby James Slater - Unbeaten as a heavyweight at 3-0(2), former IBF cruiserweight title challenger Johnathon Banks of Detroit, 23-1(16) overall as a pro, takes the next step in his new weight class on March 20th, when he will face the dangerous Travis "Freight Train" Walker. 27-year-old Banks is looking forward to the fight that will take place on the Klitschko-Chambers bill in Germany, as well as to one day becoming world heavyweight champion himself.

Yesterday, Travis Walker was kind enough to give me his views on the fight with Banks, and earlier today, Johnathon gave me his take on the NABF heavyweight title clash.


James Slater: It's great to speak with you, as always, Johnathon. How much do you know about Travis Walker?

Johnathon Banks: Actually quite a lot. I saw him in the amateurs and I guess you could say I followed his pro career. I've seen him around a few times. I've seen him in the gym in two different training camps - one was with Wladimir, the other was with Vitali [Klitschko]. So I know quite a bit about Walker.

Friday Night Fight Referee Stoppages: Kim, Provodnikov, Vlasov, Johnson, & Simon get the TKO’s

By John G. Thompson - Russia’s Ruslan Provodnikov improved to 15-0 (10 KO’s) as he outworked the experienced Mexican Javier Jauregui 53-17-2 (36 KO’s). Juaregui’s extensive resume boasts names such as Anthony Peterson, Joan Guzman, Julio Diaz, Acelino Freitas, Jesus Chavez, Leavander Johnson, and Jose Luis Castillo. Unfortunately for Jauregui, most of these names are reflected by losses on his record. Javier did get the win over Leavander Johnson for the vacant IBF Lightweight title back in 2003 and scored a tenth round KO win over Castillo back in 1994 for the Mexico Featherweight Title.

Provodnikov boasts no names on his resume and most of his fights have been in Russia. Yet with some 115 amateur bouts under his belt, the twenty-six year old light welterweight pressed the action from the start, pushing the overweight Jauregui back into the ropes and nailing him with body shots. Jauregui did show moments where his experience served him well. In the second round he landed a decent combo and a right uppercut which seemed to stagger Provodnikov. Jauregui did not do enough work to win the round, however, seemingly trying to conserve his energy and pick his shots. Ringside commentator Teddy Atlas mentioned, “He won’t throw unless he can make it count..

Exclusive Interview With Travis "Freight Train" Walker - "I Definitely Have A Lot To Prove"

Travis Walkerby James Slater 30-year-old Travis Walker is a heavyweight contender who feels he has learnt much since his most recent defeat. "Freight Train," 34-3-1(28) was shocked inside a round by Manuel Quezada last July, but the big puncher from Texas is sure he was the recipient of a "lucky punch." Very much wanting a chance to once again avenge a 1st-round stoppage loss (see his two fights with TJ Wilson), Walker must first get past former cruiserweight/now heavyweight contender Johnathon Banks.

Walker and Banks will clash in a crossroads bout on the under-card of the March 20th Klitschko-Chambers title affair in Germany - and earlier today, Travis was kind enough to give the following answers to my interview questions. Here is what the hard-hitting "Freight Train" had to say:

James Slater: Thank you so much for your time, Travis. First of all, is the fight with Johnathon Banks a definite?

Travis Walker: Yes it is.

Froch vs Kessler on April 24

Carl FrochHERNING (Feb. 12, 2010) —Team Sauerland and Hennessy Sports are proud to announce that the Super Six World Boxing Classic tournament group stage 2 fight between WBC Super Middleweight Champion Carl Froch and the Viking Warrior Mikkel Kessler will take place at the MCH Messecentre, Herning in Denmark on the 24th April 2010. The fight will be televised in the United States on SHOWTIME® beginning at 9 p.m. ET/PT. In Denmark, the fight will be broadcast on Viasat. Hennessy Sports will be announcing the UK TV broadcaster over the next week.

The two superstars lock horns in the second round of this unprecedented boxing tournament, with Kessler eager to make up for his opening loss against Andre Ward. The WBC Champ Carl Froch comes off a split decision victory over Andre Dirrell. “With the support of my great Danish fans, I will defeat Carl Froch and become world champion again,” Kessler said. “The atmosphere at MCH Herning is incredible. I only have the best of memories of the venue. The TKO victory over Perdomo last September confirmed my place in the Super Six. After a bad start, I am now out for a knock-out and the first three points.

If Vitali Klitschko And Nikolai Valuev Do Fight, Will Klitschko Become The First Man To KO The Giant?

by James Slater - Though the fight may not actually happen (promoters Don King, Sauerland Event and K2 are currently trying to thrash out a deal), the idea of a bout between WBC heavyweight king Vitali Klitschko and former two-time WBA ruler Nikolai Valuev is intriguing to some. With David Haye busy with his mandatory against former belt holder John Ruiz, who else is there the WBC champ could actually fight in the summer?

Valuev, because of his size and the fact that he has never been down in any fight, remains a worthy contender; even though he is, A: somewhat boring to watch, and, B: coming off a loss to the aforementioned "Hayemaker.

'Call Em Out Fridays': Jones/Hopkins - Questions Raised, Questions Answered

Bernard HopkinsBy Vivek Wallace - On May 22, 1993, the world of boxing sat and watched as two rising stars entertained on the big stage. One of the names that rolled across the scrolling marquee that night was very familiar; the other quickly becoming more so by the day, supported strongly by a gritty determination and a take-no-shit attitude that made him an enigmatic force known to inwardly question all answers, despite a talent that clearly answered all questions. At the time, despite the promise they displayed, few truly knew whether or not the final script for these two men would leave a print on the sport. Fast-forward the hands of time and despite a ton of well placed memories, suddenly, that very same question continues to be analyzed. Seems pretty odd that such a question could even surface, but more and more, whispers from deep in the back of the crowd maintain that some how, some way, the offerings rendered by these two men don't quite place them in that top echelon of great names in history that never seem to be forgotten. When you hear Leonard, Hagler, Hearns, or Duran, most with even a modest recollection of their respective careers can remember the countless wars and battles that each of these men took part in. Through victory they earned their legendary status, but it was through defeat that they probably solidified it, as each of those lost battles paved the way for them to win the eventual war, gaining respect in the minds of fight fans world wide because of their true warrior spirits. A glimpse at the resumes of Hopkins and Jones in comparison offers a different slant. Some feel those resumes contain a lot, others feel they contain a lot to be desired. In their prime years, both men practically bobbed and weaved through competitive traffic like a Maserati past midnight which ultimately gave them this reputation. A pretty fitting concept, as only a near empty gas tank could ever be enough to slow, and perhaps even one day stop the motion of these two 'fast cars'.

Marco Huck Vs Adam Richards

By Adam Fillingham - On the thirteenth of March, WBO cruiserweight champion Marco Huck will be defending his title for a second time against ranked no. 14 contender Adam Richards. Richards, a former heavyweight, will be fighting only his third fight in the cruiserweight division.

Marko Huck is hot on an eight fight winning streak since his loss to Steve Cunningham two years ago. Since that defeat Huck has claimed the IBF intercontinental title, the European title (which he defended, with knockouts, three times) and the WBO world title.

Hector Camacho Senior To Fight Again?

by James Slater - Whenever one looks up BoxRec to see what fights are upcoming, and the name Hector Camacho appears, it's natural to assume it is Hector Camacho Junior that is in line to fight soon. After all, "Macho" Camacho, Junior's father, has long since been retired, right? Well, actually no, he hasn't.

It's not likely too many fans are all that interested or aware of it, but 47-year-old Camacho actually fought last May, holding Ramon Campas to an eight-round draw in Florida.

Marquez Out, Malignaggi Likely In For Khan's Next Fight

Malignaggi vs Khanby James Slater - It has been reported in a number of places how Mexico's Juan Manuel Marquez will not now be facing reigning WBA light-welterweight champion Amir Khan on May 15th. Marquez, it has also been reported, was interested in the fight, yet either changed or had his mind changed and withdrew this week (ace trainer Nacho Beristan reportedly advised his fighter not to take the fight, Khan's debut in America).

So now, as Khan has told the BBC, he and his team are hoping it will be Paulie Malignaggi who is on the other side of the ring - in Madison Square Garden on May 15th. Malignaggi's people have definitely been contacted, and now we must wait and see whether or not the recently rejuvenated "Magic Man" is interested in the fight. Khan certainly feels the slick boxer who is coming off a clear points win over Juan Diaz WILL opt to fight him next.

How Can We Revive Boxing In America?

Paul McCreath - In the past few years we have seen a gradual decline in boxing in America. The flagship division, the heavyweights has seen the most obvious change. Where once we could take it for granted that most if not all of the champions would be American and probably at least eight of the top ten fighters as well, now we have no alphabet champs from USA and only 3 rated in the Ring's top 10 the last time I looked. The problem is not just with the big guys but extends into the lighter divisions as well and even worse into the amateurs. A few years ago Olympic medals were plentiful but today they are rare. Few Americans are world top 15 rated in any division.

Klitschko vs Valuev: Team Valuev Wants 60-40 Split

Don King Productions and Sauerland Event have countered K2 Promotions latest offer to former two-time World Boxing Association heavyweight champion Nikolai “Giant Russian” Valuev (50-2, 34 KOs) to face World Boxing Council heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko (39-2, 37 KOs) with a deal calling for a 60-40 percentage split.

“They approached us with a $1 million offer for Valuev to face Vitali, and Sauerland Event and I told them we would like $4 million for the fight,” King said. “Now they’ve come back to us with a $2 million guarantee. We countered with a 60-40 split of revenue.

All Time Featherweight Survey: Pacquiao cracks top ten, but did he deserve it?

henry armstrongby Geoffrey Ciani - Who are the ten best featherweights of all-time?

This is the sixth in a series of surveys I have been conducting. In the first survey, we peered into the opinions of long-time boxing fans to make a definitive list of the top ten all time heavyweights. Although this is a very subjective topic that is skewed by personal bias, differences of opinion, and the absence of a universally agreed upon criteria to judge past fighters, we can still establish some degree of consensus. While contemplating my own list of top heavyweight pugilists, I decided gathering the input of others might help display a more accurate portrayal of what a 'true' top 10 list should look like. Since then I have had similar surveys involving the light heavyweight, middleweight, welterweight, and lightweight divisions.

In this survey, which included many of the same individuals from the previous five, I polled 30 long-time boxing fans (myself included). My question was simple. I had each person in the survey provide me with a chronological list of who he or she (there was one ‘she’ in the survey—my esteemed colleague from On the Ropes, the lovely Miss Jenna J) considered to be the ten best featherweights in boxing history.

The 2010 Under-19 National Champions are Crowned in Cincinnati

(CINCINNATI, OHIO) – Eleven national champions were crowned on Friday night at the 2010 Under-19 National Championships in Cincinnati, Ohio. Ten men’s final round bouts and one female championship contest took place on the final day of competition at the Hyatt Regency Cincinnati. The boxers in the light flyweight division experienced more excitement than they bargained for with a fire alarm going off in the second round, causing a brief stoppage. Yet that didn’t deter Carlos Suarez (Lima, Ohio) from his mission in the light flyweight final round bout with Rondarrius Hunter (Atlanta, Ga.). Suarez grabbed the first lead in the bout and built it out throughout the three rounds despite the brief interruption and point deductions from both boxers. Suarez won a 15-7 decision over Hunter to win the light flyweight crown.

Soto-Diaz Highlights Pacquiao-Clottey Undercard

ARLINGTON, TX (February 11, 2010) – World Boxing Council (WBC) super featherweight champion HUMBERTO “Zorrita” SOTO and former WBC lightweight champion DAVID DIAZ will go mano-a-mano for the vacant WBC lightweight title, headlining the pay-per-view undercard of THE EVENT: PACQUIAO vs. CLOTTEY, World Welterweight Championship. The Pacquiao vs. Clottey pay-per-view telecast will also feature 10-round rumbles between two-time world champion JOSE LUIS “El Terrible” CASTILLO in a welterweight battle against top-10 contender ALFONSO GOMEZ and “Ireland’s” JOHN DUDDY in a middleweight duel with MICHAEL “Myckol” MEDINA.

It Was Twenty Years Ago Today - The Biggest Upset In Boxing History!

mike tysonby James Slater - By reading the above headline, though it does not list the contest that took place twenty years ago this very day, all boxing fans will know which fight this article is written about. Who could ever forget that amazing day in Tokyo, Japan, when 42-1 outsider James "Buster" Douglas not only became the first man to defeat the seemingly invincible "Iron" Mike Tyson, but also became the first man to knock Tyson out?

Much has been written about this incredible fight over the years (it was not just an amazing upset, but also a great action fight, full of twists and turns in the plot along the way; with some controversy thrown in for good measure!) and practically all people with an interest in the sport will have seen a copy of the February 11th, 1990 rumble at least once. However, two decades on, the fight remains a thrill to watch. The momentous upset should also serve warning to all currently active fighters, no matter how invincible THEY may look, that it is never safe to underestimate an opponent.

Timothy Bradley-Edwin Valero - Who Wins?

by James Slater - Talk about an intriguing and exciting fight. Though the fight is far from a done deal at this point in time, there is at least a decent chance unbeaten wannabe stars Timothy Bradley and Edwin Valero could meet in the summer, in what would be a classic Boxer Vs. Puncher match-up.

Both men are unbeaten, both are more than willing to fight the best available opposition, with both men seeking super-fights, and both guys are fast, exciting performers who can punch. What's not to like about the idea of the two hungry warriors getting it on with each other?

Cleverly fights for European title

By Adam Fillingham: Growing Welshman Nathan Cleverly will be fighting for the vacant European title against Italian veteran Antonio Brancalion. The British and former Commonwealth champion will be hoping to make a big impression at Wembley on Saturday night. Cleverly is coming from domination wins over Courtney Fry (TKO round 8) Danny McIntosh ( TKO round 7) and Billy Boyle ( TKO round 2). Cleverly fought to perfection in these fights which has earned him the status of Britain's biggest prospect and has been introduced into the ring magazine top 10.

Bute vs Miranda press conference - quotes

Bute vs MirandaJean Bedard (InterBox President) - “With the signing of this fight, we continue our tradition by bringing into Montreal a world class event with two world class athletes in Lucian Bute and Edison Miranda. The pre-sale of tickets is going strong and indicates we will have an amazing crowd and ambiance at the Bell Centre the night of April 17th,” states InterBox president Mr. Jean Bedard. “Power is a shortcut to win. Miranda can put out the lights with any punch…One week after his fight with Librado Andrade, Lucian was back in the gym. He’s training hard, taking Edison Miranda seriously and he’ll do everything he has to do to stay World champion for a long time. Lucian is an ambitious fighter, he wants to be a hall of famer and it’s a privilege for me to work with him.

Lucian Bute

“Last time I fought it was the Pepsi Colisee in Quebec City that exploded with action and with the result. This time it’s going be the Bell Centre! I am taking Miranda very seriously, I have a lot of respect for him, he’s courageous and I know he comes to win. He demolished many good fighters and is a notorious puncher. I will have to keep my concentration level on high, show my speed, footwork and ability to stay champion,” declares Lucian Bute.

News: Matt Remillard; Henry vs Garay; Jason Cintron

MANCHESTER, Conn. (Feb. 12, 2010) – WBC rated No. 10 featherweight contender, unbeaten NABF champion Matt “Sharp Shooter” Remillard, is getting closer and closer to a major fight. In his last bout (Jan. 29), Remillard destroyed Rafael “The Dominican Man” Lora (11-2, 5 KOs) for the second time in a row, defending for the first time the NABF belt he won September 19 by way of a fourth-round technical knockout. Lora’s team complained that the original fight was unjustly halted, but they soon discovered that sometimes you should watch out for what you wish.

News: Rayonta Whitfield; Oquendo vs Arlovski; Ballroom Brawl in Tampa

World ranked flyweight Rayonta "STINGRAY" Whitfield is training at the Savannah Boxing Club in Houston, Texas, under the guidance of world renowned trainer Ronnie Shields, in preparation for his NABO Title battle against Sergio "THE SAN DIEGO SENSATION" Espinoza. Their twelve round headline bout, part of an action packed evening of world class professional boxing set for Saturday, February 27th at the Bell Auditorium in Augusta, Georgia, is presented by TKO Boxing Promotions. "Camp in Houston has been perfect. I'll be here sparring and training with Ronnie until a couple of days before the fight. We're putting in the hard work that will payoff on February 27th" said the 28 year old Whitfield.

February 1965: The Culmination of Floyd Patterson’s Redemption Road (I)

floyd pattersonBy Pete Madzelan: Floyd Patterson’s comeback after the two straight debilitating one round knockouts by Sonny Liston was met with a collective shrug.

That was okay with Floyd, he was doing this for himself; for his pride. So, he embarked on his own redemption road that concluded when he outpointed George Chuvalo to cement himself as a top contender for the heavyweight crown.

*

To begin the road back, Floyd went abroad to Sweden, where he was enormously popular. Writing in the Saturday Evening Post, Pete Hamill beautifully described the affection Sweden had for Floyd, and Floyd for Sweden.

“When he walks the streets of…Stockholm and Goteborg, he is besieged by autograph hunters and tailed by photographers.”

Patterson quipped, “You might say I’m a kind of one-man Beatles..

Erik Morales returns on Mar. 27 PPV

HOBOKEN, N.J. (Feb. 11, 2010) – Integrated Sports Media, North America’s undisputed leader pay-per-view distribution of major boxing events, is teaming-up with KO Entertainment to bring American fans the ring return of Mexican great Erik “El Terrible” Morales, who headlines the March 27th “The Champion Returns” pay-per-view event live from Monterrey, Mexico. “We’re excited to bring U.S. boxing fans the return of Erik Morales, one of boxing’s all-time greats, and the last man to defeat Manny Pacquaio,” Integrated Sports Media president Doug Jacobs said. “He is a living legend who has beaten many, many world champions. The entire card is stacked from top to bottom with world champions, top contenders, and hot prospects..

Episode 3 Of FIGHT CAMP 360° Premieres Monday On SHOWTIME

NEW YORK (Feb. 12, 2010) — The critically acclaimed reality series from SHOWTIME Sports®—FIGHT CAMP 360°: Inside The Super Six World Boxing Classic—returns to SHOWTIME with Episode 3, premiering Monday, Feb. 15, at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT. The 30-minute episode recaps all three Group Stage 1 bouts with unique angles, never-before-seen fight footage and ringside seats next to the promoters, fighter’s families and cornermen. Episode 3 follows each fighter after their respective match, as they recede from the spotlight in victory and defeat to prepare for the next Group Stage.

Katsidis vs. Diaz II; And a Statement from Michael Katsidis

Michael KatsidisBy John G. Thompson - For those who have not already heard, the excellent March 27th match-up of Michael Katsidis vs. Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero has been cancelled do to the health issues of Robert’s wife, Casey, who is fighting her own battle with leukemia. Certainly no one can fault Guerrero for pulling out, and we all wish Casey well. So who does Katsidis fight instead? It is clear there is one fight which interests Katsidis, and that is a rematch with one of the only two men to have beaten him. Here is a statement from Michael Katsidis:

“I think it is number one priority that I gladly can announce that Juan Diaz has officially accepted my challenge with an immediate public response. Already this shows his willingness to what will be another exciting battle. I know this fight will be at his weight division of which he was formerly crowned the lightweight king of the world. Now I am champion and I am prepared to put my belt on the line against the very best, and at this weight Diaz is assured to be all that is expected. I want to make a firm point to the boxing public. I have held back the truth to my demise in our last fight having suffered a broken hand in the second round of our last fight. Let it be known I will come forward, I will deliver and just as I have regained my title I will dominate all that I fight as now I am far more hardened and experienced then ever before in my career. I mean this with the most humble intentions but making sure to allow prior notice so all can witness the turning point I have worked so hard for..

Johnathon Banks To Meet Travis Walker On Klitschko-Chambers Card?

by James Slater - The upcoming March 20th heavyweight title fight between reigning Ring magazine, IBF and WBO king Wladimir Klitschko and "Fast" Eddie Chambers is an intriguing enough fight, yet another decent heavyweight match-up on the under-card is always welcome. And, according to the essential web site that is BoxRec.com, a good heavyweight supporting bout will indeed take place in Germany next month, an hour or so before the big title fight.

Former cruiserweight contender and IBF title challenger Johnathon Banks, currently 23-1(16) overall and 3-0(2) as a heavyweight, is set to continue his quest in his second weight class, when he will go in against the big-punching Travis "Freight Train" Walker.

News: Edner Cherry; Huck vs Richards; Kaliesha West

TAMPA, FL (February 10, 2010) Former world title challenger Edner “CHERRY BOMB” Cherry is a man on a mission and continues on his path towards another world title opportunity on Friday, February 19th in the main event of “TRIPLE-HEADER IN TAMPA” at the Ala Carte Event Pavilion. Cherry squares off against Columbian banger Hevinson Herrera in the headline bout of an evening of world class professional boxing presented by TKO Boxing Promotions, Fight Night Productions and Ker’s WingHouse.

Nineteen Years Ago Today - "Terrible" Terry Norris Dominates "Sugar" Ray Leonard

Norrisby James Slater - Exactly nineteen long years ago this very day, all-time great "Sugar" Ray Leonard suffered the fate of losing in what was his Madison Square Garden debut. Pushing his luck by, A: fighting on at the relatively advanced age of 33, and by B: dropping back down to as low a weight as 154-pounds for the first time in well over six years, Leonard met the much younger "Terrible" Terry Norris, in a WBC light-middleweight title challenge.

Norris, who was a full decade the younger man, was seen by some as a new star of boxing; the man who could maybe even take over from Leonard as the megastar of the lower weight classes. Coming into the February 9th, 1991 fight off the back of five straight victories, including the sensational 1st-round destruction of John "The Beast" Mugabi he'd scored to win his crown, Norris was still only a slight favourite to beat Leonard. Perhaps the reason for this was the fact that Norris, in an earlier 154-pound title challenge, this one for the WBA belt, had been blown away inside two-rounds by Julian Jackson. Leonard may not have been as lethal a one-punch killer as was "The Hawk," but he was a hard hitter nonetheless, and he was so much more experienced than Norris - to say nothing of "Sugar's" undeniable greatness. It was with all this on his mind that the 26-3 Norris entered the ring in New York to face the 36-1-1 living legend.

Ghana’s Charles Adamu defends Commonwealth title on March 20

By Prince Dornu-Leiku - Ghana’s Charles Adamu will defend his Commonwealth Super Middleweight title on March 20 in Namibia against local favourite Harry Simon (24-0, 17 KOs). It will be the first defence of the crown the Ghanaian pugilist won only last December 18 and he is keen to impress even though the fight takes place in front of the experienced Namibian opponent’s own fans.

But 32 year old Adamu who beat Briton Carl Dilks in London to win again the title he previously held but lost to Carl Froch in 2004, says the 37 year old Simon will be no obstacle to his ambitions.

Heavyweight Crowd-Pleaser Mike Mollo To Return Against Raphael Butler In March?

by James Slater -It's unlikely either guy will ever become a heavyweight champion, but Mike Mollo and Raphael Butler - who, according to BoxRec, are set to clash in Chicago on March 26th - are both gutsy sluggers who always come to fight hard. Mollo, who celebrates his 30th birthday tomorrow, is the more well known warrior of the two men, having rumbled with some pretty big names in his now 19-3(12) pro career.

Manny Pacquiao-Edwin Valero - Please Make This Fight Happen!

Valeroby James Slater - Immediately after he'd stopped a brave Antonio DeMarco in the 10th-round on Saturday night, improving his perfect record to 27-0(27), WBC lightweight king Edwin Valero again called out fellow southpaw and reigning pound-for-pound star Manny Pacquiao. Saying a fight between he and the Filipino legend is a fight "the whole world wants to see," the lethal-punching Venezuelan made it clear he'd be willing to move up in weight to make the super-fight happen.

Indeed, the word is, "El Inca" will make the move up to 140-pounds in his very next fight (tantalising whispers suggest Valero could possibly fight WBO light-welterweight champion Timothy Bradley in the summer!). Believing he can carry his power - punching power that has seen him win every single one of his pro bouts inside the distance - up with him to 140 and maybe even beyond, Valero is hungry for a mega-match with "Pac-Man." He is not the only one!

As big a fight as Pacquiao-Floyd Mayweather would have been (and maybe still will be), a fight between Pacquiao and Valero is something else altogether.

Hopkins/Jones Jr LA Quotes

Bernard Hopkins – “This is 2010. That was 1993. That’s 17 years I’ve been waiting for this fight. It’s personal to me and it’s important to me that I get this man in the ring and that I send him on his way to the Hall of Fame. I want to make sure that the last person he remembers is ‘The Executioner.’”

“You listen to Roy Jones and he says something I agree with. You hate to say it, but we are rivals, and you hate to say it, but it took us 17 years to get here. A lot of other things have happened in our lives in the time it took to get here, but now that it’s here, his worst nightmare has come to pass. Me..

News: Molitor vs. Ndlovu II; Paul Spadafora; Sadam Ali

Since losing his IBF Junior Featherweight world championship to Celestino Caballero in November of 2008, “The Canadian Kid” Steve Molitor (31-1, 12 KO’s) has been on a single-minded mission to regain his belt, and re-establish his dominance at 122 pounds.

On March 27th at Casino Rama, in Rama, Ontario, that mission can finally be accomplished when Molitor (ranked #2 by the IBF) faces South African Takalani Ndlovu (30-5, 18 KO’s, IBF #1) for the now vacant IBF Junior Featherweight world title, during the main event at Rumble at Rama XI.

Tavoris Cloud-Glen Johnson - Who Wins?

Tavoris Cloudby James Slater - In earning a shot at current IBF light-heavyweight champion Tavoris Cloud, ageless wonder Glen Johnson looked nothing short of brilliant this past Friday night when he hammered Yusaf Mack to a 6th-round defeat. Winning his 50th pro fight, the incredible 41-year-old "Road Warrior" now finds himself back in a position to be able to earn some big money in the somewhat quiet 175-pound division.

Chad Dawson, twice a points winner over the Jamaican who lives in Florida, is the best fighter in the division, but he is no star and he also has a less than trilling style of fighting; while ageing warriors Bernard Hopkins and Roy Jones Junior are big names but neither guy figures to stick around in the weight class for too much longer (Hopkins, should he beat Jones in April, may even go up to heavyweight). So, in terms of a great action fight, the possible Johnson-Cloud clash is probably the best bet.

Cloud, 20-0(18) an all-out action fighter who never stops throwing punches, will likely prove a tougher foe for Johnson than Mack did.

Boxing State of the Union 2010 (Cruiserweights)

By: Karim ‘Kato’ Godfrey - The Cruiserweight division has been lacking high quality talent for years now. This division reminds me of the Jr. Flyweight or Strawweight division; enough decent boxers but no one you would be able to name off the top of your head. I think of myself as more than a casual fan of boxing and can’t come up with many positives for this division. They need to make more high quality matchups but, how can you if there aren’t that many to begin with.

Yanjing Fight Night: Andy Murray vs Oisin Fagan; Healy replaces Murtagh

Yanjing Fight Night: Weigh In Details
* Andy Murray (134.5 Lbs) V Oisin Fagan (134.5 Lbs) - Irish Lightweight Title (10 Rounds)
* Patrick Hyland (125.5 Lbs) V Mickey Coveney (126 Lbs) - Irish Featherweight Title (10 Rounds)
* Coleman Barrett (225 Lbs) V Colin Kenna (239 Lbs) - Irish Heavyweight Title (10 Rounds)
* Anthony Fitzgerald (162.5 Lbs) V Ciaran Healy (167 Lbs) - Irish Super Middleweight Title (10 Rounds).

Is Valero the next P4P? What’s next for DeMarco?

ValeroBy Paul Strauss: Edwin El Inca Dinamita Valero came very close to ruining his string of victories and stoppages when he suffered a horrendous cut to his forehead in the second round of his fight with Antonio DeMarco. The cut came from a freakishly sharp (accidental) left elbow. The cut was so nasty that it seemed an almost certainty the fight would be stopped. The good thing for Valero was the location of the cut, which was high up and to the right side of the forehead. As a result, most of the blood stayed out of the right eye.

However, Valero also suffered a bad cut to the right eyelid, but his corner did a great job keeping the bleeding under control. However, initially the right side of Valero’s face was a crimson mask, but it didn’t keep the Venezuelan knockout artist from attacking.

Credit should be given to DeMarco as well. He weathered a tremendous attack throughout the fight, and seemed to maintain his poise and confidence right up until the end.

Acosta and Machado Collide in Dublin

Cuban KO sensation Alexei Acosta faces a major step up in class this Saturday when he takes on former World Champion Felix Machado in a unique Latin American duel on the Yanjing Fight Night at the National Stadium in Dublin.

Machado will be a name familiar to Irish fight fans having faced Bernard Dunne in 2008 in the Dubliner's first bout after his defeat to Kiko Martinez. On that occasion the Venezuelan southpaw lost on points over 10 rounds to Dunne but he will be hoping for greater success this weekend against the Cork City based Acosta who has so far KO'd all 9 of his professional opponents.

Guerrero vs. Katsidis Called Off

By John G. Thompson - Josh Weaver with the Gilroy Dispatch has reported that Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero (a native of Gilroy, California) will have to pull out of his potential March 27th match-up with the exciting Australian slugger Michael Katsidis. Guerrero sited his wife’s battle with Leukemia as the reason for his withdrawal. While fans will certainly be disappointed that this potentially thrilling fight will not take place, certainly no one can fault Guerrero for his reasons.

On the Ropes Boxing Radio ep. 59—Featuring Kermit Cintron, Peter Quillin & Team Estrada

kermit cintron by Jenna J >-- Click here to listen to the show -- As always, this week's 59th edition of On the Ropes will start at its regularly scheduled time, 6pm Eastern Time. You can listen live by clicking “play” on the player or enter our chat on the blogtalk message board; you can also call into the show at (646)716-5404.

On the Ropes is is back to bring you the latest and greatest in the world of boxing! Join me Jenna J, the Hostess, along with my spectacular Producer, the amazing Geoffrey Ciani (aka-Rummy).

Topics for Discussion

· It’s official! Shane Mosley versus Floyd Mayweather, May 1
· Tomasz Adamek difficult victory against Jason Estrada
· The prospect of Adamek facing Chris Arreola in April based on the Estrada performance
· Glen Johnson’s impressive stoppage over Yusaf Mack
· Edwin Valero’s impressive knockout of Antonio DeMarco

UK Boxing: Martin Concepcion; McKenzie/Bellew; Kenny Anderson

MARTIN Concepcion wants to avenge the ‘worst moment of his career’ by knocking out Bradley Pryce in the Prizefighter Light-Middleweight final. Concepcion and Pryce are two of the eight contenders in Barry Hearn’s next Prizefighter, at the York Hall in Bethnal Green, London on February 26. The pair have history as Pryce stopped Concepcion in the third round of their clash for the Commonwealth Championship in October 2007.

Forget Mayweather. How about Valero?

by Robert Cookson - Edwin Valero did it again, knocking out his 27th consecutive opponent and defending his WBC lightweight title for the second time. It was an impressive performance from the Venezuelan who impressed me with his previously underemployed boxing abilities.

The opponent was a good, solid and tough Antonio DeMarco, who was mercifully rescued by his corner after a systematic nine-round beating. While watching the fight, I couldn’t help be reminded of the Manny Pacquiao of old.

Mayweather vs Mosley: Several Valid Reasons Why Sugar Shane Beats Money Mayweather

Mosley vs MayweatherBy Dax Ferguson - Well, fight fans, the fight of this decade is apparently going to happen. It’s not that often that two of the three greatest fighters on the planet have the opportunity to meet in the ring. Or that the three greatest fighters are all boxing in the very same weight division. Of course, I am referring to Sugar Shane Mosley, Floyd Money Mayweather and Manny Pacquaio.

I, for one, was really looking forward to seeing Manny and Floyd get it on; now it’s Shane and Floyd in what promises to be one of the most important welterweight fights of all time; and that is saying a lot when one remembers some of the great battles in that division in the last half of the century. One of the greatest battles was between all time great Kid Gavilan and unbeaten Gil Turner, who possessed at age 21 a 31-0 record with 25 KO’s and ex-champs Ike Williams and Beau Jack on his kayo roster. Gavilan triumphed in the 11 the round in a bout that drew 47,000 fans to the Philly arena back in July of 1952.

Then there were the epic battles pitting Gavilan vs Billy Graham and Carmen Basilio.

Jones vs Hopkins II Quotes

New York City (February 9) –Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins and Roy “The Terminator” Jones stayed true to their reputations as two of the most outspoken boxers in the history of the sport as they announced The Rivals: Hopkins vs. Jones II, which will take place April 3 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nev. and will be broadcast live on pay-per-view. The debate style format of the press conference was the perfect setting for these two living legends to prove why their nearly two-decade long rivalry is stronger than ever. Below please find a sampling of their bold statements, setting the stage for what will surely be a great night for boxing and a hotly contested fight.

German TV giant ARD and Team Sauerland extend contract through 2015

German public TV giant ARD and Team Sauerland have agreed to an early contract extension through 2015. The Berlin-based boxing stable will continue to deliver between 10 and 12 shows each year. “We are pleased to further extend our successful cooperation with ARD,” said manager Wilfried Sauerland, whose boxers are promoted by Team Sauerland. “Together we have delivered high-class boxing on a regular basis to the German and the international audience.

'Left-Hook Lounge': Vivek Wallace's Mailbag feat. Pacquiao, Mayweather, Valero, and Mosley

ValeroArdley W. (North Miami Beach, FL): Edwin Valero's victory was pretty interesting. Did you think he lived up to the hype and the Pacquiao comparisons?

Vivek W. (ESB): I can now officially say this....."I'm a fan"! I have seen Valero on video quite a bit as I studied him in the past after hearing all of the buzz, but I must say, seeing him live did a little something for me. I don't see the Pacquiao comparisons, outside of the fact that both men are relatively small and have very good power, though. Actually, (as odd as this may sound), fundamentally, he showed a little more than Pacquiao at this stage of his evolution. He doesn't rely on his chin as much. Pacquiao, (similar to Mosley), will take a slew of shots to land a few. Valero was very much adept at slipping punches and he has that nifty move where he actually puts his off-hand up to cover his chin when he does it. What I noticed though - as it relates to him getting hit - when he does, he actually takes it very well. There was one misconception of him that I heard and feel compelled to speak on. It was stated that he was tired because he was "fighting with his mouth open". In breaking down footage, he has ALWAYS done this, but he never seems to wear down. I think in an odd way, it's just something he has grown accustomed to doing.

Mikkel Kessler Video Blog – Media Training Session in Berlin

Mikkel Kessler and Jimmy Montoya held a public training session at Berlin´s Max-Schmeling-Gym on Tuesday afternoon. The Viking Warrior is shaping up in the German capital ahead of his Super Six second-round clash with WBC Champion Carl Froch. “Things have been going fine in Berlin,” Kessler stated. “Froch said he wants to decapitate me but I think it will be the other way round..

With Carlos Támara, Colombia Amounts 42 World Champions –A Statistical Approach from Antonio Cervantes to Carlos Támara

Jaime Castro Núñez - Carlos Támara is Colombia’s newest champion of the world. By knocking out Brian “Hawaiian Punch” Viloria in the Philippines, the kid from Sincelejo, now living and training out of Bergen, NJ., has become Colombia’s 42th boxing champion of the world, being junior welterweight Antonio Cervantes “Kid Pambelé” the first one. Just for the sake of having fun with the statistics, I spent the last two weeks putting all the numbers together in order to analyze the sport of boxing in this part of the world. This is what I found.

Colombia entered into the boxing world scenario on October 28, 1972, in Panama, when 140-pounder Antonio Cervantes dethroned Alfonso “Peppermint” Frazer, becoming Colombia’s first champion ever.

What Now For Adamek And Estrada?

Valeroby James Slater - It seems there is a good chance the debate will continue regarding the scoring of last night's heavyweight rumble between Tomasz Adamek and Jason Estrada. Very much a case of take your pick, some fans feel the Polish tough guy deserved his points win, while others felt the fight was extremely close and could have gone either way - with maybe a draw being a fair result. One thing is clear, the 118-110 score one judge handed in after the 12-rounds that Adamek won via a UD was another case of poor officiating.

Geoffrey Ciani, in his fine piece of work below, has already covered last night's bout from all bases, but I wanted to add my thoughts about where each fighter goes from here. Angry at the decision going against him, especially by such a wide margin on that last card, 29-year-old Estrada would no doubt like a rematch, but on neutral ground - what with last night's venue of Newark, New Jersey very much being 33-year-old Adamek's hometown. But what real chance does "Big Six" have of getting a return with "Goral?" Slim and none, as the saying goes.

Euro News: Jack Culcay, Robert Woge, Holyfield vs Nielsen?

By Per Ake Persson: Sauerland Event are trying to get retired Danish heavy Brian Nielsen, 44, to comeback and take on Evander Holyfield, 47. Nielsen, 65-2, retired six years agoafter a long and hard career and had big problems with his knee that was the actual reason for his retirement. Nielsen tells Danish news agency Ritzau a comeback won´t happen until - if possible - he has his knee fixed. The comeback plans have made big headlines in Denmark where Nielsen was a superstar. As for Holyfield, well, somehow it seems as if Sauerland forgot to tell him about the Nielsen fight but he tells Ekstrabladet he´s interested.

News: George Tahdooahnippah; Joseph Judah; ICB Knockout Series

"Comanche Boy" George Tahdooahnippah literally weathered the ice storm of January 2010 and came out victorious in his bout with Ohio native Chris Overby.

Tahdooahnippah (22-0-1) displayed his superior boxing skills with a unanimous decision over the game Overby. "There were a lot of distractions outside the boxing event with the weather and the state of Oklahoma, but I am fighter obligated to win. Regardless the circumstances, I must win," Tahdooahnippah said.

Estrada provides difficult challenge for Adamek

Adamekby Geoffrey Ciani @ Ringside - Despite his impressive victory against Andrew Golota there were a lot of questions surrounding cruiserweight champion Tomasz Adamek’s jump to the heavyweight division. Against Golota, Adamek looked impressive and made relatively quick work of his fellow Pole. Golota, however, was a shell of his former self far removed from the days when he twice battered former undisputed champion Riddick “Big Daddy” Bowe. Golota was painfully slow and unable to mount a serious offensive attack. As a result, the much quicker Adamek was able to have his way with Golota who did his best impression of a walking heavy bag before succumbing to Adamek’s firepower in round five.

Adamek’s second test at heavyweight came in the form of Jason Estrada last night at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The 10,123 in attendance were overwhelmingly pro-Adamek, but despite constant cheers from the fans clad in red and white this was a tough fight for Adamek. Estrada proved to be a formidable foe and was able to give just as well as he took. Most of the rounds were extremely close and very difficult to score. Adamek was the busier man, but for the most part, Estrada was landing the cleaner harder blows. Through the first six rounds Estrada had tremendous success countering Adamek’s right with a left hook that never seemed to miss the mark. Despite this success, however, Adamek still seemed to be winning at the halfway point based on activity.

Does Floyd Want to Clean Boxing or Tarnish His Rival's Image?

By Steve Fradkin - Floyd Mayweather told Jim Rome on ESPN this week that "Manny wouldn't take a $25 million drug test. I'm trying to clean up sports, make a change... You don't start off your career as average, and then after your turn 25, become extraordinary... All we want is for Pacman to take a $25 million dollar drug test, and we got a fight."

Was Pacquiao really just average before he turned 25?

Was he average when he took two titles in the flyweight division? Was he average when he KO'd Lehlohonolo Ledwaba on HBO as a late sub for a super bantamweight title in 2001?

Exclusive Interview With "The Swamp Donkey," Adam Richards - "Me Against Huck Will Be Two Bulls Going At Each Other!"

by James Slater - Crowd-pleasing 29-year-old Adam Richards of Houston, Texas, got the title fight opportunity he has been craving since childhood yesterday, when he signed the contract to fight WBO cruiserweight champion Marco Huck in Germany on March 13th. Unbeaten as a 200-pounder, the 23-2(15) warrior who is better known to fights fans by his nickname of "Swamp Donkey," is already training for his big opportunity and he is ready to give his all in the ring in Germany.

A good amateur, Richards turned pro at heavyweight in March of 2001, and back in April of last year, after a thrilling but losing battle with Chazz Witherspoon, he dropped down to 200-pounds, where he has won two straight.

Valero and Abregu Still Undefeated

ValeroBy John G. Thompson: Edwin “Dinamita” Valero 27-0 (27 KO’s) put on a career defining performance in defending his WBC Lightweight Title and forcing Antonio DeMarco 23-2-1 to quit on his stool before the start of the tenth round. No one should misunderstand what happened as the Venezuelan champion showed brilliance against a very game, yet outclassed opponent in the young Mexican warrior. This was not simply a case of a young fighter being exposed, but an example of what happens when a very good fighter meets a great one.

Warming up the crowd in exciting fashion, Luis Carlos Abregu 29-0 (23 KO’s) earned a tough fought unanimous decision against Richard Gutierrez 24-4-1. After a somewhat close first round, Gutierrez almost pulled an upset in the second, knocking Abregu down. Abregu had just thrown a hard right which was blocked by the guard of Gutierrez, and was following it up with a left hook, when Gutierrez threw a vicious left hook of his own catching Abregu on the chin. Abregu’s knees buckled and he went down. Getting up on shaky legs Abregu managed to move and eventually regained his faculties, even landing shots of his own before the bell ended the round.

Hopkins, Jones To Settle Fierce Rivalry On April 3 At Mandalay Bay

"A rematch with Roy has been in the back of my mind for a long time and it's finally going to happen," said Hopkins. "I have accomplished a lot in my career since that night in Washington, DC in 1993, and I am going to end this thing between me and Roy once and for all."

"We're giving the fans what they want to see. They deserve this fight and why not supply the fans with their demands?" said Jones. "Now I can finally terminate the Executioner once and for all. My new nickname for this fight will be - The Terminator..

Danny Garcia vs Ashley Theopane - Feb 26 on ESPN FNF

LOS ANGELES, February 8 - Unbeaten Philadelphia phenom Danny "Swift" Garcia will begin 2010 with his toughest fight to date on Friday, February 26 when he squares off against British veteran Ashley Theopane in the 10-round junior welterweight co-main event of ESPN's "Friday Night Fights" at the Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas. Also on the February 26 card - which is headlined by the 10-round featherweight battle between El Paso favorite Antonio Escalante and Juarez's Mickey Roman - will be bouts featuring top Texas prospects Jermell Charlo and Omar Figueroa, Mexico's Luis Enrique Grajeda and Uganda's Sharif Bogere.

Kid Chocolate Victorious in Long Awaited Return

boxingby Geoffrey Ciani @ Ringside - Undefeated middleweight prospect Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin was last seen inside the ring over sixteen months ago. A series of injuries have kept the 26 year old pugilist out of action. Last night, on the Tomasz Adamek-Jason Estrada under card, Quillin finally made his long awaited return to the ring. He squared off against Fernando “Little Ali” Zuniga in a ten round contest.

It was an overall good performance from Quillin. He was able to win virtually every round. Although he was rusty and his timing seemed a bit off, he did what he needed to do to win. He exhibited good speed, solid defense, and nice movement. More importantly, he was patient and did not over commit. Considering the long layoff, he made a very nice account of himself.

This was the fourth time I attended a live Quillin fight. His other three wins that I saw were all by knockout. He defeated Thomas Brown via second round knockout and it took him just one round to finish off David Estrada and Steve Walker. Despite the explosive nature of those victories, I was more impressed by this performance.

News: Glen Johnson; Boxeo Telemundo; Chevelle Hallback; More

“THE ROAD WARRIOR” HITS HALF-CENTURY MARK IN WINS, LOOKS FORWARD TO 2010 TITLE SHOT - HOLLYWOOD, FL, February 8 - It’s one of modern boxing’s most coveted milestones, and on Friday, February 5th, former world light heavyweight champion Glen Johnson his 50 wins in spectacular fashion, stopping fellow contender Yusaf Mack in six rounds at the NSU Arena in Fort Lauderdale to improve to 50-13-2 with 34 knockouts as a professional.

“This is a great moment for me and it came with a lot of hard work and dedication,” said Johnson. “What made it even better for me was that I was able to get this win in front of my family and friends in South Florida, the people who have been in my corner all these years..

News: Manny Pacquiao; Honorio vs Hilario; Hernandez vs. Nunez

LOS ANGELES (February 11, 2010) – Seven-division world champion, Congressional candidate and boxing’s No. 1 pound for pound fighter and box office attraction MANNY “PacMan” PACQUIAO will be hosting a Valentine’s Fans Day This Sunday! February 14, beginning at 1 p.m., at the Embassy Suites Hotel Los Angeles-Glendale (800 North Central Avenue, Glendale, Calif. 91203.) "Over 1,000 fans are expected to attend one of Manny’s final major public appearances in Los Angeles before he heads to Dallas to defend his World Boxing Organization welterweight title against former world champion and current No. 1 contender Joshua Clottey," said Ami Almerol of Silver Shadow Promotions, who is organizing the Pacquiao Valentine's Fan Day.

Ibragimov Stops Tamim In Three Rounds

boxingby Pavel Yakovlev - (2/6/10) - Timur Ibragimov kayoed Awadh Tamim in three rounds in a heavyweight bout today. Tamim was knocked down twice in the third before referee Jon Schorle ended the match at 2:15 of the round.

Tamim (11-2; six kayos), 224 ¾ lbs, was simply out of his league against the vastly more experienced Ibragimov. The powerfully built Tanzanian fought aggressively in the first round, apparently hoping to catch Ibragimov cold. But Ibragimov was prepared for his opponent’s blitzkrieg tactics, and efficiently eluded Tamim’s combinations. Near the end of the round, Ibragimov rattled Tamim was hard counter punches, which seemed to drain the Tanzanian’s strength.

By the third round, Ibragimov (27-2-1; 15 kayos) was on the hunt. The brave but outgunned Tamim was soon trapped on the ropes and obliterated by the Uzbekistani’s combinations.

Ibragimov weighed 222 ½ lbs, and he is now fighting regularly since ending his contract with Don King Productions last year. Ibragimov acquired the vacant IBA Intercontinental heavyweight title as a result of today’s win.

Canadian Boxing: Lemieux, Trupish, DeLaronde, Ngoudjo, Valdez, Cermak, Emerge Victorious Saturday Night

By G. M. Ross – It was a busy Saturday night for Canadian boxing fans, with cards at the Montreal Casino, in Montreal, Quebec, and the Shaw Conference Centre, in Edmonton, Alberta. Some of the nation’s top boxers, including David Lemieux, Jason Naugler, Herman Ngoudjo, Jason DeLaronde, Omar Valdez, James Cermak and Adam Trupish, were in action, accompanied by three Canadian newcomers.

At the Montreal Casino, GYM promotions provided yet another excellent night of fights, featuring a showdown for the Canadian super middleweight title between the undefeated knockout machine David Lemieux of Montreal and former Canadian light heavyweight champion Jason Naugler of Bridgewater, Nova Scotia. Naugler came into the contest riding a four fight losing streak, including his first ever knockout defeat at the hands of Chicago prospect Don George.

Night Of The Champions: James DeGale; Mendoza vs Mitchell; Chisora vs Baker

James DeGale says fighting at home for the first time on Saturday means he'll get a perfect preparation - a cup of tea and an afternoon in front of the telly. DeGale, the 2008 Olympic middleweight champion, boxes at Wembley Arena on February 13, his first fight in London since his success in Beijing. For his five previous professional outings, DeGale has boxed up and down the country - but is now relishing his big home coming on Frank Warren's Night of the Champions. "I can't wait to show all my fans, friends and family just what I can do," said the 23-year-old.

"And what's even better is that I can put my feet up in my own front room on the day of the fight.

Post Fight Quotes from Adamek - Estrada

AdamekIn front of an exuberant crowd of 10,123 predominantly Adamek Fans, Tomasz Adamek defeated Jason Estrada in a 12 Round decision, to retain the IBF Heavyweight International Heavyweight title. The official scores were 115-113, 116-112 and 118-110, all in favor of Adamek.

Post Fight Quotes From Jason Estrada: “If everyone in this room were completely honest with themselves you would all admit that I got robbed. I mean I got played. I might as well have had a gun pointed to my head.”

“At best I give Adamek three of the twelve rounds. I seriously think the last judge doesn’t need to judge anymore.”

“Yeah I’m angry. I fought my a_ _ off. I trained harder than I ever have. I was in the best shape I’ve ever been in. People talked about me possibly running out of gas, but I never did. All he (Adamek) did was run..

News: Raymond Gatica; CES Boxing; Derrik Ennis

February 13, 2010, the Las Vegas Hilton will be the site of a great night of boxing as Top Rank, Inc.promotes a great Pay Per View fight card featuring “The Filipino Flash” Nonito Donaire defending his Super-Flyweight title against Mexican banger, Gerson Guerrero. The under card bouts feature many proven veterans and up-and-coming prospects.

News: Roy Jones; Coy Evans; Fight Night 2010

Pensacola, FL, February 8, 2010 -- One day after the New Orleans Saints historic Super Bowl victory over the heavily favored Indianapolis Colts, Roy Jones Jr. reflected back to that August day he was invited to the Saints’ training camp by Head Coach Sean Payton and delivered a speech to the team, which turned into a pep talk for the upcoming season.

Edwin Valero, Carlos Abregu Remain Unbeaten

ValeroMONTERREY, Mexico (Feb. 7, 2010) – In a sterling performance, Edwin Valero of Venezuela improved to 27-0 with 27 knockouts and retained the World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight title with a dominant ninth-round TKO over WBC interim titleholder Antonio DeMarco (23-2-1, 17 KOs) of Tijuana, Mex., Saturday in the main event on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on SHOWTIME®.

World-ranked welterweight Carlos Abregu of Salta, Argentina, upped his record to 29-0 (23 KOs) with a clear-cut, 10-round unanimous decision over Miami-based Colombian Richard Gutierrez (24-4, 14 KOs) in the co-feature at Arena Monterrey.

The event, promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, LLC, was the first SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast to emanate from Mexico in nearly 12 years and the first in Monterrey in more than 15.

Valero, who resides in Las Vegas, showed he was anything but one-dimensional as he outfought and, somewhat shockingly, outboxed the tentative and outclassed DeMarco while controlling all the rounds in a one-sided battle of southpaws.

Charlotte Boxing/MMA Bouts a Big Hit

By Dick Landis: Tommy Hill's Red Leather Promotions staged a mixed bag of fisticuffs Saturday evening at the Bette Rae Thomas Recreational Center in Charlotte, NC. The agenda featured four pro boxing contests along with five amateur mixed martial arts battles.

Among the sizeable fight crowd was a large contingent of fans showing their support for popular lightweight prospect Dominic DeSanto of Spencer, NC. Fighting up in class, DeSanto made it a quick night's work landing with crackling right and left hooks to score a second round TKO at 2:23 over Tabron Farmer of Wilson, NC.

Floyd Mayweather Says All Future Fights Should Have Random Drug Testing

by James Slater - Now that his super-fight with "Sugar" Shane Mosley is at long last signed and sealed, Floyd "Money" Mayweather has started giving interviews again. Speaking exclusively to SKY Sports yesterday, the soon-to-be-33-year-old had quite a lot to say - and not only about the upcoming May 1st fight we are all looking forward to.

Mayweather told Sky he is "very excited" about the fight, and that he has been hanging with members of his team, talking game-plans and tactics before he gets ready to go into camp. "Money" also spoke about the steroids Mosley was caught using, and how he feels all future fights should have to adhere to the random drug testing the May 1st fight is being fought under.

Adamek decisions Estrada, fails to impress

AdamekBy Ken Neir: Former IBF cruiserweight champion Tomasz Adamek (40-1, 27 KO’s) looked far from impressive as he labored to a hard fought 12 round unanimous decision on Saturday night against 2004 U.S. Olympian Jason Estrada (16-3, 4 KO’s) at the Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey. Adamek, 32, came into the fight weighing an all time high of 220, and fought as if the weight was a problem for him. The final judges’ scores were 118-110, 116-112, and 115-113. Adamek took a great deal of punishment from the light-hitting Estrada, and seemed to be unable to get out of the way of any of Estrada’s shots.

It’s fortunate that Estrada wasn’t a huge puncher, because chances are he would have stopped Adamek if he had a little more power behind his shots. Despite being noted as a puncher while fighting in the light heavyweight and cruiserweight divisions, Adamek’s punches appeared weak in comparison to Estrada’s shots.

Adamek made up for his lack of power by throwing a lot of punches, which enabled him to stay in control of the fight. However, it still was a very close fight and had Estrada thrown more punches in the last five rounds, he would have likely taken the fight. Adamek’s face was forced to take the full brunt of Estrada's shots, as Adamek appeared to block a lot of Estrada’s punches with his face instead of his gloves.

Valero stops DeMarco!

World Boxing Council lightweight champion Edwin Valero (27-0, 27 KO's) chalked up his 27th straight knockout tonight in stopping WBC interim champion Antonio DeMarco in a 9th round TKO tonight. The bout was stopped by DeMarco's corner after the 9th round. Valero wore DeMarco out, punishing him with heavy shots round after round. By the 7th round, DeMarco was mainly just taking punishment and not really throwing anything back of substance. In the 8th and 9th, Valero battered DeMarco at will, raining shots down on him. DeMarco lost a point in the 2nd round for cutting Valero with an elbow. Besides that, DeMarco did very little in the fight and looked tentative for the most part.

Glen Johnson Stops Yusef Mack, Who’s Next?

By John G. Thompson - Glen “The Road Warrior” Johnson 50-13-2 (34 KO’s) showed why at the tender age of forty-one he still belongs in the upper echelons of the light heavyweight division with his sixth round TKO win over Yusef Mack 28-3-2. The former champion Johnson showed not age but beauty in setting a fast pace while also restraining himself at times, giving himself time to think and put down his opponent.

In the under card, highly decorated Cuban stars Guillermo Rigondeaux 5-0 (4 KO’s) and Yudel Jhonson 5-0 (3 KO’s) each scored first round knockouts against their opponents Adolfo Landeros 20-13-1 and Dorian Beaupierre 12-6-2. Neither opponent had any business being in the ring with these two Olympic medallists, Landeros having lost six of his last eight fights, and Beaupierre having taken the fight on eleven days notice and not having been in the ring since 2006. While Rigondeaux and Jhonson looked spectacular, they were meant to, and they should both be facing stiffer competition.

Karl Mildenberger: Germany’s Second Greatest Heavyweight Ever

Mildenbergerby Pavel Yakovlev - Today, Germany is the world’s center of professional heavyweight boxing. The sport’s long-term dominant heavyweights, Vladimir and Vitali Klitschko, have fought nearly their entire careers in Germany. German promotional houses Sauerland Events and Universum Boxing Promotions are now so influential that the most powerful American promoters – who once had no competition --cooperate with them to stage mega events in that country.

Naturally, Germany’s emergence as a boxing powerhouse over the past two decades has heightened the profile of the late Max Schmeling, the legendary German boxer who was the world heavyweight champion in the 1930s. Media articles on German boxing often include reverential remarks about Schmeling, who is unquestionably the greatest native-born German heavyweight of all time.

Schmeling’s Olympian status in German boxing history, however, has had the effect of causing the public and media to overlook the accomplishments of Germany’s second greatest native-born heavyweight in history. That man is Karl Mildenberger, who was formidable enough to be a top contender in the competitive 1960s era, and who was sufficiently talented to fight a heroic losing effort against Muhammad Ali, whom many consider to be the greatest heavyweight of all.

Mildenberger’s achievements are considerable. He was the first southpaw to fight for the world heavyweight title. From 1964 to 1968, Mildenberger held the European heavyweight title, which he successfully defended six times. During this period Mildenberger was always ranked in the worldwide top ten by Ring Magazine. He finished his professional career with an impressive record of 53-6-3 (19 kayos).

Ennis Defeats Vasquez At The Blue Horizon

Despite warnings of two plus feet of snow, it was standing room only at The Legendary Blue Horizon and those fans who braved the elements were rewarded with one of the most action filled boxing cards that was reminiscent of the days that made The Legendary Blue Horizon the world’s number one boxing venue. This night was part of the annual Valentine’s Day Special show promoted by Vernoca L. Michael and Blue Horizon Boxing Inc.

Booth Stops Marsh On Cut, Johanneson Returns With A Win

by James Slater - There was plenty of good action last night in the Nottingham show headlined by British super-bantamweight champion Jason "Too Smooth" Booth. 32-year-old Booth, defending his British title for the third time, won the coveted Lonsdale belt outright, as he won an 11th-round TKO over a very game Matthew Marsh.

Booth, from Nottingham, had a very tough fight on his hands, as he was cut, floored and outboxed in the first half of the exciting affair. Finally, much to the dismay of 27-year-old Marsh and his fans, Booth got the win at 59-seconds of the 11th-round - as the ringside doctor stopped the fight due to the nasty cut Marsh had above his right eye.

Freddy Hernandez, Francisco Contreras Are KO Winners

boxingSANTA YNEZ, Calif. (Feb. 6, 2010) – With one sudden, dramatic right hand, once-beaten Freddy “El Riel’’ Hernandez (28-1, 19 KOs) of Lynwood, Calif. broke open an entertaining, dead-even fight to brutally knock out former world champion DeMarcus “Chop Chop’’ Corley (36-13-1, 21 KOs) of Washington, D.C., at 1:48 of the fifth round Friday in the main event on ShoBox: The New Generation on SHOWTIME®.

In the co-feature at Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, Calif., power-punching, undefeated Dominican Francisco Contreras (13-0, 12 KOs), of Livingston, N.J., registered a 1:38, first-round knockout over Juan Castaneda, Jr. (16-3, 12 KOs), of La Paz, Mexico, in a scheduled eight-round junior welterweight bout.

The three judges had the Hernandez-Corley scheduled 10-round welterweight scrap scored 38-apiece entering the fifth round.

A former World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior welter belt-holder, Corley vowed going in to take the fight to Hernandez and he did. He cut the No. 14-ranked contender in the World Boxing Council (WBC) around both eyes and his experience created a lot of problems for the native of Mexico City.

Michael Katsidis Calls Out Juan Diaz

By Michael Katsidis: Today I propose a challenge to to Juan Diaz ! This is your lifeline ! Lets play who wants to be a Millionare !

It is your turn to phone a friend, call Golden boy and lets make this happen ! Since our last fight I have regained the WBO light weight championship of the world !

There has been talk for a bout against Robert Gurrero, a junior lightweight with little interest to me and nothing to gain !

Exclusive Interview With Boxing Promoter Tom Tsatas

by James Slater - Tom Tsatas, former long-time manager of heavyweight contender Fres Oquendo, is now a promoter. The new head of Hitz Boxing, Tom is looking towards putting on great, value for money shows for the fans.

Tsatas' maiden show as promoter takes place on the 20th of this month, with Oquendo headlining (there will also be a big name on the under-card) and all involved expect a great night.

Very kindly taking the time to talk with me earlier today, Tom spoke about some of the ideas he has for giving boxing fans better quality shows.

Tomasz Adamek vs. Jason Estrada Weigh-In & Prediction

adamek vs estradaby Geoffrey Ciani - Heavyweight contenders Tomasz Adamek and Jason Estrada are all set to square off tomorrow night at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. At today’s weigh-in, Adamek came in at 220.5 pounds while Estrada weighed 237. Both pugilists appeared in good shape and ready to do battle.

Both camps are extremely confident their side will emerge victorious. Estrada has made no secret of his belief that Adamek is making a mistake. Jason and his father/trainer, Roland, both feel that Adamek is too small for the heavyweight division. They believe his win over Golota was the result of Golota being way past his prime and do not feel this win should act as justification for Adamek stepping into the ring with Estrada. On the other side, Team Adamek is confident that their man is well suited for a run in the heavyweight division. In fact, there is already talks of an April showdown with heavyweight contender Chris Arreola should Adamek win this fight, and should he get by that challenge, it is even conceivable that Adamek will be in line for a title shot later this year.

Joseph Agbeko promises to beat Vusi Malinga on April 16

By Prince Dornu-Leiku - Former IBF Bantamweight champion Joseph King Kong Agbeko will fly out of the country to the USA shortly to begin final preparations for his next fight against South African Vusi Malinga on April 16. The bout serves as an eliminator for the IBF title which Agbeko lost to Yohnny Perez in his last fight in 2009 and the Ghanaian is taking no chances at all, even if he will face Malinga in front of the South African fighter’s own countrymen.

Steven Seagal Meets Manny Pacquiao

Photo: BWAA Fighter of the Decade MANNY "PacMan" PACQUIAO (r) presents Hollywood action hero STEVEN SEAGAL with a hand-painted commemorative boxing glove featuring the likeness of PacMan.

HOLLYWOOD, CALIF (February 5, 2010) – STEVEN SEAGAL, one of Hollywood’s most popular box office action heroes and the star of A&E’s wildly-popular reality series Steven Seagal Lawman, was a dinner guest of seven-division world champion and three-time Fighter of the Year MANNY "Pacman" PACQUIAO earlier this week.

'Call Em Out Fridays': Mayweather/Mosley - Lights, Camera, Action....

floyd mayweather jr.By Vivek Wallace - As long as many of us can remember, the month of March has been synonymous with college basketball. For the first time in a long time, the world of sports will offer a variable to the popular "March Madness", starting with a 'Final Four' that none of us had any idea we'd ever actually see. All around the world fight fans were far less than happy, some even pledging to ditch the sport altogether, as a result of the broken negotiations between P4P contenders Floyd Mayweather jr. and Manny Pacquiao. The old adage states that "you must go through the rain to reach the rainbow". There was never a more reciprocal element displayed of this statement than the one that recently played out in the world of boxing. After all the hype, drama, and eccentrics to follow, the final product of those flat-lined negotiations is a stellar showdown in Dallas Cowboys Stadium between Filipino Manny Pacquiao and Ghana native Joshua Clottey, followed by a showdown between American Floyd Mayweather jr. and a man who needs little introduction.......American 'Sugar' Shane Mosley. A closer analysis shows us that college hoops isn't the only sport to play a role in this first half of the 2010 calendar year in boxing, as despite the late arrival, an April showdown between Bernard Hopkins and Roy Jones Jr. clearly tips a hat to two men once referred to as the 'Masters'. Granted, most would rather pass on this late-to-bloom showdown, but sticking to the 'Masters' wordplay, perhaps the true link here (as it relates to this welterweight eliminator), is one intricate piece which remains missing from the mega fight landscape - a man who resides in the city which gave birth to the tournament itself, Paul Williams of Augusta, GA.

News: Vasquez vs Sonsona; Cristian Mijares; Eric Hunter

HOBOKEN, N.J. (Feb. 5, 2010) –Unbeaten Wilfredo “WV2” Vazquez, Jr., the proud son of 2-time world champion Wilfredo Vazquez, Sr., plans to make Puerto Rican history Feb. 27 when he fights the 19-year-old being billed in the Philippines as the next Manny Pacquaio, “Marvelous” Marvin Sonsona, for the vacant World Boxing Organization (WBO junior featherweight title, headlining one of two sensational shows airing on pay-per-view in North America.

Lucian Bute-Edison Miranda Set For April 17th - Expect Fireworks!

by James Slater - Power-punching Colombian Edison Miranda was all set to challenge Germany's Robert Stieglitz for the WBO super-middleweight title back in January, only to have to pull out of the fight due to a bout of flu. But "Pantera," as the exciting Miranda is known, has walked right into an even bigger world title fight.

It has been confirmed on ESPN.com that the 29-year-old with the impressive 33-4(29) record will challenge Lucian Bute for the undefeated Canadian's IBF 168-pound title. The fight will take place in Montreal, Canada, on April 17th and HBO will televise live. As exciting as this fight is, there are even more exciting plans afoot for that same night, though.

Eddie Chambers: “I’m going to come home heavyweight champion of the world”

Eddie Chambersby Geoffrey Ciani - This past week’s edition of On the Ropes featured exclusive interviews with Eddie Chambers, Jason Estrada, Roland Estrada, and Jesse Brinkley. Highlighting this episode was a nice conversation with the number one ranked heavyweight, Eddie Chambers, who is slated to challenge Wladimir Klitschko for his WBO and IBF heavyweight championship belts. Here are some excerpts from the Chambers interview:

On his recent victory against then undefeated heavyweight contender, Alexander Dimitrenko:
“The performance was pretty good. I give myself about a solid B, and the reason is because there were things I was doing in this here fight and it wouldn’t fly with Wladimir. I was standing in front of him too much, my legs were too straight and stiff, and I didn’t move as much as I should have been moving both to the target and away from the target.”

Regarding how the Dimitrenko fight has helped prepare him for Wladimir Klitschko:
“I think that Dimitrenko’s only thing was he wasn’t as strong. I guess that would mean his physical attributes weren’t up to par with Wladimir, but his ability, his boxing skills, his speed, his movement were—I don’t want to say more so than Wladimir, but at least on par with what he had. It’s just that he didn’t have the experience and he wasn’t ready for what I was bringing to the table.

News: Contreras vs Castaneda Jr; Whitfield vs Espinoza; Couser vs Hanks

SANTA YNEZ, CA (February 5, 2010) Undefeated junior welterweight prospect Francisco “THE PHENOM” Contreras hits Southern California this Friday night, February 5th, to battle Juan Castaneda Jr. at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, California in the opening bout of ShoBox: The New Generation on Showtime (11pm ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast). Signed to the rapidly growing, international boxing promoter, TKO Boxing Promotions, the 25 year old Contreras, 12-0-0 (11KO’s), a native of the Dominican Republic, burst onto the US boxing scene last year with a brutal first round stoppage of Gustavo Mejia on June 18th in front of a stunned crowd at Michael’s Eighth Avenue, outside of Baltimore.

Will Jason Estrada Spoil Tomasz Adamek's Big Plans? - Adamek Vs. Estrada Tomorrow!

by James Slater - Former IBF cruiserweight champion Tomasz Adamek of Poland, 39-1(27) has big plans. Now campaigning as a heavyweight, the 33-year-old, who stopped countryman Andrew Golota inside five-rounds in his debut at the new weight back in October, has his eyes on top contender Chris Arreola and reigning heavyweight champions the Klitschko brothers.

It's no secret how "Goral" and his team are looking ahead to a fight with Arreola in April (RingTV.com has an article up now, reporting how the fight is in negotiations), yet this is before the 34-1(18) tough guy has even won his next fight - taking place tomorrow against former Olympian and natural heavyweight Jason "Big Six" Estrada.

Valero, DeMarco Weigh-In Photos

valero vs demarcoNOTE: WEIGHTS (Feb. 5, 2010) – World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight champ Edwin Valero and WBC 135-pound interim titleholder Antonio DeMarco both weighed in at 135 pounds during Friday’s weigh in the Arena Monterrey in Monterrey, Mexico. The hard-hitting Valero will face the once-beaten DeMarco in the main event this Saturday, Feb. 6, on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast) from the Arena Monterrey in Monterrey, Mexico.

Valero (26-0, 26 KOs), of Merida, Venezuela, is a two-time champ who has knocked out 100 percent of his opponents. He will be making the second defense of his WBC title against Tijuana’s Demarco (23-1-1, 17 KOs).

In the 10-round co-feature, Luis Carlos Abregu (28-0, 23 KOs), of Salta, Argentina will meet Richard Gutierrez (24-3, 14 KO’s), of Miami, Florida, via Arjona, Colombia, in a welterweight bout. Both Abregu and Gutierrez weighed in at the 147 pound welterweight limit.

Bernard Hopkins - Roy Jones II Tickets

LAS VEGAS, NV (February 4) . . . Tickets for the long awaited rematch of future Hall of Famers Bernard "The Executioner" Hopkins and Roy "The Terminator" Jones Jr. go on sale tomorrow, Friday, February 5 at 10:00 a.m. PT. The Rivals: Hopkins vs. Jones II is set for Saturday, April 3 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nev. and will be broadcast live on pay-per-view beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Tickets priced at $750, $500, $300, $200 and $100 go on sale TOMORROW, Friday, February 5 at 10:00 am PT and will be available for purchase at all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations (select Smith's Food and Drug Centers and Ritmo Latino). Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.mandalaybay.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

News: Sergiy Dzinziruk; Mike Jones; Al Bernstein

NEW YORK (February 4, 2010) – Arthur Pelullo and Gary Shaw, presidents of Banner Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions, respectively, announced the signing of undefeated World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior middleweight world champion SERGIY “Razor” DZINZIRUK to an exclusive promotional agreement. Boasting matinee idol looks, Dzinziruk (36-0, 22 KOs), the division’s longest-reigning champion, is a native of Ukraine currently fighting out of Hamburg, Germany. He captured the WBO title in 2005, sending defending champion Daniel Santos to the canvas in the eighth round en route to a unanimous decision victory and the world championship belt.

Exclusive Interview With "Fast" Fres Oquendo - "I'm Eager To Mix It Up With Either Of The Klitschkos"

boxingby James Slater - 36-year-old "Fast" Fres Oquendo, the former two-time heavyweight title challenger, is set to get back in action in Indiana on February 20th. Hoping to get one more crack at a world title, the 31-5(20) contender who has been in with top names such as Evander Holyfield and James Toney (who many people thought Fres beat on points a while back) wants to challenge one of the Klitschko brothers.

Taking his upcoming fight with 25-year-old Demetrice King very seriously, Oquendo would like nothing more than to get in with one of the two brothers right after this bout. First, though, he must beat King - a man who has bee stopped just once as a pro.

Very kindly taking the time to speak with me earlier today, Fres gave the following answers to my questions:

News: Adamek-Estrada; Maurice Harris; Andy Kolle

The Adamek - Estrada fight is on! There was barely a dusting of snow in Newark, NJ, the streets are clear. Tickets in the lower bowl have completely sold out, but Prudential Center will continue to open up sections of $53 seats as long as there is a demand.

Freddie Roach Says Pacquiao Will KO Clottey - Is Freddie Wrong For Once?

by James Slater - Ace trainer Freddie Roach is well known for being a guy who meticulously studies all upcoming opponents for his fighters, and also for having a quite uncanny knack for accurately predicting the outcome of bouts featuring fighters he works with. And, as is to be expected, Roach has recently been spending his time putting Joshua Clottey - next, of course, for his "star pupil," Manny Pacquiao - under the microscope. Freddie has also come out with another prediction that seems pretty hard to accept, but, due to his track record, may well prove to be spot on.

Roach has been watching tons of Clottey on tape, and he is sure his man will not only beat the tough nut from Accra, Ghana; but he has also predicted Manny Pacquiao will KO the former IBF welterweight champ - becoming the first man to have done so. While a good number of fans will no doubt agree with Roach on his first assessment - that Pac-Man will defeat Clottey on March 13th - some fans may not be in the mood to take Freddie at his word on the second statement he's made.

Rigondeaux donating Friday's purse to Children of Haiti Fund

boxingLOS ANGELES (Feb. 4, 2010) – Two-time Olympic champion Guillermo “El Chacal” Rigondeaux, arguably the greatest amateur boxer of all-time, is showing more of his personal side with an announcement that he is donating his entire purse from this Friday night’s fight to the Children of Haiti Fund. Rigondeaux (4-0, 3 KOs), fighting as a super bantamweight, now lives in Los Angeles after defecting from Cuba, where he was a 7-time national champion. The 28-year-old southpaw also won multiple World Championships titles, as well as a gold medal at the 2003 Pan-Am Games, during his incredible 243-4 amateur career.

“Rigo,” who is trained by Freddie Roach and managed by Gary Hyde, faces Adolfo Landeros (20-12-1) in an 8-round bout on ESPN Friday Night Fights, live from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

“Guillermo’s gentle, caring heart will be full of fire Friday night for his fifth pro fight,” Irishman Hyde said. “He really wants to win impressively on ESPN. He definitely hasn’t let fame and all of the attention he’s received to go his head. ‘Rigo’ hasn’t forgotten the poverty he comes from. Hopefully, his thoughtful donation will encourage others to follow suit..

Governing Body Ratings Explored – A Quantitative Study

By Harry Walklin - Boxing’s four principle world governing bodies; the World Boxing Council (WBC), World Boxing Association (WBA), World Boxing Organisation (WBO) and the International Boxing Federation (IBF) often list a diverse range of fighters in their rankings and one body’s rankings are often considerably different from that of the next. It can be argued that a fighter’s inclusion and position in these rankings is of vital importance as on the most part it corresponds to their opportunity to fight for a world championship, and the respect, recognition and financial remuneration that comes hand in hand with doing so.

The 2010 USA Boxing National Championships Return to Colorado Springs, July 12-17

(COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO.) – The USA Boxing National Championships, the premier amateur boxing event in the United States, will return to Colorado Springs, Colo., July 12-17, for the 2010 edition. Over 200 of the nation’s top Olympic-style boxers in both the male and female divisions will compete in the tournament, which is being presented by the Daniels Fund and co-hosted by the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation.

Exclusive Interview With Earnie Shavers - "Today's Heavyweights Aren't As Dedicated"

ernie shaversby James Slater - Right now, as we speak, two heavyweight legends are enjoying each other's company, as they reunite in Tulsa, Oklahoma. For former rivals James Tillis and Earnie Shavers are at the Tillis household, there to celebrate the lifetime achievement award James is to soon be given by the catBox group.

Shavers, who lost a decision to "Quick" in 1982, was kind enough to come to the phone from James' house earlier today, to give me the following interview.

Here is what the man who shared the ring with, amongst others, Muhammad Ali, Larry Holmes, Joe Bugner, Ken Norton, Jimmy Young and Jimmy Ellis had to say:

James Slater: Wow, it's a surprise pleasure to speak with you, Earnie! You are at James Tillis' house now, to see him receive an award?

Earnie Shavers: Yes, I'm a James' house here in Oklahoma now. He deserves that award (from the catBox Group) that was one great fight we had in Vegas in '82.

Samuel Vargas Makes Pro Debut Saturday In Montreal

MONTREAL, CANADA (February 5, 2010) Colombian amateur Samuel Vargas will make his pro debut against Todd Furler, this Saturday, February 6th at the Montreal Casino in Quebec, Canada in a scheduled four round welterweight bout. Born in Bogota, Colombia, Vargas immigrated to Canada at age 16 in search of a better life. Arriving in Toronto , Vargas started boxing under the guidance of famed Canadian trainer Chris Johnson. Hitting the sparring ring against world class professionals including Steve Molitor, Logan McGuinness and Andrew Singh Kooner, Vargas quickly earned the respect of his peers.

Jones Jr vs Hopkins: The case for Roy Jones

by Stuart Young - Now Hopkins Vs Jones II has finally been signed & sealed after years of speculation, hype, argument & counter-argument between the two respective camps we can now look ahead to the fight & try to determine the winner.

Scheduled for the Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, on 3rd April, the rematch arrives some 17 years after the original bout where a youthful, flashy & brilliant Roy Jones outpointed a rather ‘green’ Bernard Hopkins back in '93 in a clash for the vacant IBF middleweight title.

Valero, DeMarco Final Presser Quotes From Mexico, Saturday's World Title Fight

boxingThe always-exciting Edwin Valero will defend his World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight title against undefeated, once-beaten WBC 135-pound interim titleholder Antonio DeMarco in the main event this Saturday, Feb. 6, on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast).

The undefeated knockout artist and two-time world champion Valero (26-0, 26 KOs), of Merida, Venezuela will be making the second defense of his WBC title against Tijuana’s Demarco (23-1-1, 17 KOs), the WBC Interim Champion at the Arena Monterrey located in Mexico.

In the 10-round co-feature, Luis Carlos Abregu (28-0, 23 KOs), of Salta, Argentina will meet Richard Gutierrez (24-3, 14 KO’s), of Miami, Florida, via Arjona, Colombia, in a welterweight bout. The event is promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, LLC and will take place during the celebration of the bicentennial of Mexico’s Independence.

What the fighters and their respective promoters had to say at Wednesday’s final press conference:

Video: Arthur Abraham - Sven Ottke: Sparring For Andre Dirrell

BERLIN (Feb. 4, 2010) — Two undefeated champions battled it out in the Max-Schmeling-Gym on Wednesday afternoon when King Arthur Abraham welcomed a special sparring partner. In order to prepare for the Super Six World Boxing Classic Group Stage 2 meeting with Andre Dirrell on March 6 (live on SHOWTIME® at 9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast), coach Ulli Wegner had invited former WBA/IBF Super-Middleweight Champion Sven Ottke to challenge Abraham. The “Phantom”, who retired undefeated in 2004, is known for his fast legs and special movements. “Sven can help Arthur in the preparation for Dirrell,” Wegner said. “Arthur will have to track Dirrell down. That´s why sparring with a fast, smart and clever fighter like Sven certainly helps..

Hernandez vs. Corley, Contreras vs. Castaneda final quotes

SANTA YNEZ, Calif. (Feb. 4, 2010) -- Promising Freddy “El Riel’’ Hernandez (27-1, 18 KOs), of Lynwood, Calif., will take on former world champion, southpaw DeMarcus “Chop Chop’’ Corley (36-12-1, 21 KOs), of Washington, D.C., in the 10-round welterweight main event on ShoBox: The New Generation tomorrow/Friday, Feb. 5, on SHOWTIME® (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast). In the co-feature at Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, Calif., hard-hitting, undefeated Dominican Francisco Contreras (12-0, 11 KOs), of Livingston, N.J., should get what definitely will be the toughest test of his career when he faces Juan Castaneda, Jr. (16-2, 12 KOs), of La Paz, Mexico, in an eight-round junior welterweight bout.

Mayweather - Mosley On!

Mosley vs MayweatherLAS VEGAS (February 3, 2010) - It's official. Boxing's biggest superstar and six-time world champion Floyd "Money" Mayweather made his upcoming fight with welterweight mega-star and five-time world champion Sugar Shane Mosley, official today when he signed the contract that pits the two fighters against each other on Saturday, May 1 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas in a mega-bout which will be televised live on HBO Pay-Per-View®.

"This one is definitely for the fans as I wasn't going to waste anyone's time with a meaningless tune-up bout and asked to fight Shane immediately," said Mayweather. "I have said ever since I came back to the sport that I only wanted to fight the best. I think Shane is one of the best, but come May 1, he still won't be great enough to beat me..

Michael Katsidis-Robert Guerrero For Interim WBO Lightweight Belt On March 27th?

by James Slater - There is the quite tantalising possibility that crowd-pleasers Michael Katsidis and Robert Guerrero will clash on March 27th, in a fight that will contest the WBO's interim lightweight title currently held by the man from Australia. Up as happening on BoxRec, Katsidis-Guerrero may also be supported by another potentially exciting fight, in Marcos Maidana defending his interim WBA 140-pound belt against the undefeated Victor Manuel Cayo. A great doubleheader, to be sure; if it happens.

The Katsidis-Guerrero fight has the look of a very good battle. Though the warrior from Toowoomba in Australia had his heart set on a fight with "real" WBO 135-pound champ Juan Manuel Marquez, it looks now as though Amir Khan will get that fight (talks are ongoing for Khan-Marquez to take place, up at 140, on May 15th in Vegas).

UK Boxing: Dodson Slams Smith; Cox Keeps Heat On Brook

Tony Dodson says his British super-middleweight title fight with Paul Smith is "personal". Dodson, 29, challenges Smith on March 12 at the Liverpool Echo Arena in an all-scouse affair. And in a hard-hitting interview he has revealed that he is desperate to beat the man he used to be close friends with.

Dodson says he has been "disrespectful" and "nasty" in the build up to their fight.

"Paul and I go back a long way," said former British champion Dodson. "When I first turned professional he used to come to the gym and lace up my gloves.

Roach: “Amir will do to him [Marquez] what he did to Marco Antonio Barrera”

Juan Manuel MarquezBy Harold Kupel: Freddie Roach, the trainer of World Boxing Association light welterweight champion Amir Khan, is seemingly very confident of the 23-year-old Khan’s chances against Juan Manuel Marquez ahead of their planned May 15th bout. In an article with the Telegraph, Roach says “Amir will do to him [Marquez] what he did to Marco Antonio Barrera in Manchester last year. He’ll [Khan] break him up.”

Khan defeated the 35-year-old Barrera by a 5 round technical decision in March 2009, a fight that pleased few fans because of the ending of it. Khan controlled almost every second of action against the former super featherweight star, but the bout was stopped in the 5th round because of a nasty head butt that opened up a huge cut on Barrera’s forehead. Barrera bled from the 1st round on until the fight was stopped.

Khan needs a victory over an old star like Marquez to help make a name for himself in the United States. Khan has fought his entire career in England, and only recently has decided to come over to the U.S. to try and become a star there.

Haye offers to match Groves with Degale on April 3rd

Hayemaker Boxing have offered Frank Warren Promotions a sum of £50,000 for their super-middleweight prospect James Degale to box George Groves on April 3rd at Manchester’s M.E.N Arena. Should the fight go ahead, Degale’s duel with Groves would act as one of the chief support contests to David Haye’s WBA world heavyweight title defence, live on Sky Box Office. “We are deadly serious about making this fight for April 3rd and believe that we have made a more than fair offer for it to happen,” says Hayemaker Boxing’s Adam Booth.

Maddalone-Alexander, Alvarez-Camacho, Riley-Foster This Saturday

Update: STORM POSTPONES SATURDAY NIGHT ATLANTIC CITY FIGHT CARD TILL MARCH 6TH - In light of the major snow storm expected to hit the Atlantic City area, Tropicana Casino and Resort and Star Boxing have decided to postpone Saturday night's boxing show until Saturday March 6th, noting major concern for the safety of traveling fans, fight participants and the general public welfare. Both are very disappoined that they have had to postpone the show, especially since ticket sales had been so strong. All tickets purchased for the February 6th event will be honored on March 6th. The Tropicana and Star Boxing look forward to seeing everyone at the show on March 6th.

Shane Mosley not worthy? Since when?

shane mosleyBy Coach Tim Walker - An earthquake devastated Haiti a few short weeks ago. Millions were affected that day. Millions more in the subsequent days that have followed. One of those affected considerably was WBC Welterweight champion Andre Berto who was scheduled to face Sugar Shane Mosley on January 30. Berto's body was still training for his showdown but his mind and heart, understandably, were with his family and countryman.

If you know Berto's story then you know that he is born of Haitian ancestry. If you have ever had the opportunity to observe the Haitian community then you know that in spite of their difficulties their community is close. It is this love of family and community that caused Berto to walk away from one of the largest paydays, if not the largest, that he has commanded thus far. This left Mosley in limbo. No opponent. No fight. No options. At least that is what many people thought.

Manny Pacquiao had removed himself from a mega-bout with Floyd Mayweather, in lieu of future litigation, and opted to face the frequently dodged Joshua Clottey.

Is Mayweather Making Mosley Wait?

Robert Jackson: In 1999, when Floyd Jr was 130lb champion he called out 135lb champion Shane Mosley to fight him in what would've been a super fight, Mosley declined!! Fast forward to 2005 after the Henry Bruselles fight a WBC Eliminator to determine who would fight Arturo Gatti next, Floyd was asked by Larry Merchant who he would like to fight next, amongst the names Floyd recited were Kostya Tszyu, Oscar DeLaHoya and Shane Mosley. Once again no rersponse from Mosley or the others for that matter.

A year later following his 2nd victory over Fernando Vargas, Mosley was asked whether he would face Mayweather by HBO host Larry Merchant, Mosley's response he needed to get his teeth fixed and go on vacation.

Booth Ready For Marsh; Weigh-In Video

JASON BOOTH insists he will walk away from boxing a happy man if he wins a London belt outright tomorrow night (5th Feb). Booth, 32, makes the third defence of his super-bantamweight crown when he faces Matthew Marsh (13-1) at Nottingham's Harvey Hadden Centre, meaning the belt will be his for keeps if he wins. It will be his 16th major title fight in a rollercoaster career spanning almost 14 years. Booth says: ""If I could win the Lonsdale belt outright I will have achieved what I wanted to when I started out and I'll be happy with that. I would like to go further, but anything after this is a bonus..

Out With the Old, In With the New

David HayeBy Rik Hine - Without a trace of irony, several boxing writers have announced that the wait is over; Jones-Hopkins II is now official. If you’re a boxing fan, then it's likely that you already know this. Of course if you really are a boxing fan, then you probably won’t much care. Slightly out-waiting the locust, this April 3rd will mark seventeen years since they first shared a ring. And to think that good things are supposed to come to he who waits.

Given that the outcome of this fight is hardly in doubt, there can’t be many reasons for watching it outside of outright sadism. Still, if you’re willing to pay to see this debacle you’re likely a masochist too. Live and let live I suppose.

The slightly more discerning fan might turn his attention to another fight on the same day but the other side of the pond, as David Haye will be seeking to send John Ruiz into retirement. I’m probably not alone in hoping that Haye is successful; I hope I’m not alone in wishing that Jones and Hopkins would take the hint.

This Wednesday: Super Channel To Show Manfredo vs Vanda, Remillard vs Lora

TORONTO, CANADA (February 3, 2010) Canada’s Super Channel will broadcast an evening of action packed professional boxing this Wednesday night, February 3rd, featuring NABF Title bouts between middleweights Peter Manfredo Jr., and Matt Vanda and featherweights Matt Remillard and Rafael Lora in addition to sensational Canadian prospect Arash Usmanee.

Presented by TKO Boxing Promotions and Hennessy Sports, the outstanding card took place at the Mohegan Sun Casino in front of over 6,000 fight fans.

Victor Ortiz-Nate Campbell - Who Wins?

by James Slater - According to Dan Rafael over at ESPN.com, if the possible Amir Khan-Juan Manuel Marquez title fight that is being worked on for May 15th comes off, the plan is for Victor Oriz to face Nate Campbell at light-welterweight in the co-feature. A fascinating prospect, who would win; the big-punching and much younger fighter from Oxnard, or the former world lightweight champion from Florida?

Southpaw Ortiz, who must first defeat Hector Alatorre on February 25th, would have a huge advantage in youth, being just 23 compared to age 37 for "The Galaxxy Warrior"

Big Night Of Boxing Set For April 3rd - Haye-Ruiz And Jones-Hopkins II

roy jones jr.by James Slater - With today's news of how the long awaited rematch between modern day legends Roy Jones Junior and Bernard Hopkins is to take place in Las Vegas on April 3rd, fans can look ahead to a pretty big night of boxing on both sides of the Atlantic that night. As was announced last week, WBA heavyweight champion David Haye will face John Ruiz in Manchester a few hours before the two veterans get it on seventeen years after they first met as middleweights.

Two big fights, then, with plenty of star name involvement. But here's the thing: is there a good chance both fights, as big as they are, will be dull, disappointing affairs? You bet there is.

Ruiz, though tough, capable and durable, has seldom been in an exciting fight, and his tactics of using plenty of holding don't figure to change in the fight with the fast-handed puncher. It's all up to Haye to make this fight exciting, and maybe he can do it, maybe not. But how many fans will be willing to gamble pay-per-view money in the hope the fight will prove to be worth watching?

WBF Mourns Death of Mlungisi Dlamini

The World Boxing Foundation would like to express its condolences to the family of lightweight champion Mlungisi Dlamini who was tragically killed in a car accident last Friday. The “Killer Shark” as he was known in the ring fought and defended his WBF title five times and in recent months was also crowned IBO champion. WBF President Mick Croucher who was personally in attendance at many of Dlamini’s championship fights was deeply saddened upon hearing the news and recalls that “he was a good person and a good fighter and had so much more potential in the ring.“ Dlamini’s outstanding record of 21 wins and 12 knockouts in the ring will however not be forgotten and the WBF joins the boxing world in mourning the loss of a great champion.

Exclusive Interview with Mickey Bey, Jr.

by Geoffrey Ciani - I was recently afforded the opportunity to have a nice chat with undefeated junior lightweight contender Mickey Bey, Jr. The undefeated contender is looking to secure a title shot sometime this year and is determined to make his mark on the boxing landscape. Here is what he had to say:

Q: Mickey, in your last fight against Tyrone Wiggins you won by first round knockout. Can you tell us a little bit about your performance in that fight?

A: Well, actually it was short but the great thing about it was I actually got to knock him out with the punch that me and my trainer were working on, and that was just throwing the right hand over the jab. We’ve been working on the right hand a lot in the gym so I was really happy for that to be the punch that got him out of there.

Exclusive Interview With Oliver McCall - "I Truly Believe I Have What It Takes To Whip The Klitschkos"

boxingby James Slater - Former WBC heavyweight champion Oliver McCall may be 44 years old, but "The Atomic Bull" is as hungry as ever. Still intent on becoming a world champion for a second time, McCall, 54-9(37) fights again on the 16th of this month. Having won his last three fights, the last win being over the huge Lance Whitaker, McCall is on something of a roll.

Training now for his upcoming fight, Oliver, who dreams of a showdown with one of the two Klitschko brothers, very kindly took time out to speak with me after today's workout. Here are the rock-chinned warrior's answers to my questions:

James Slater: It's great to speak with you as always, Champ. Have you had a good training session today?

Oliver McCall: Yes, it was good. I especially enjoyed watching my son train today - I was very impressed with him. Yes, another day done, I feel blessed as always.

J.S: The fans want to see you fight again: when and where will your next fight be, Oliver, and who will it be against?

O.M: I'll be fighting again in two weeks - I'm fighting Zuri Lawrence on February 16th at The Hard Rock (in Hollywood, Florida).

Quotes from Adamek Estrada Presser; Sadam Ali On The Undercard

Kathy Duva, CEO Main Events –“Tomasz has to win against Jason Estrada before he can realize his dream of being the heavyweight champion. It’s a tremendous fight, people are watching it closely. We are delighted to be promoting it.

“A lot of people are asking me why Tomasz took this fight. It is one of those fights where it seems as if we brought in a young guy who pretty much plays to Tomasz’s “not so strengths”; I don’t want to say weaknesses because I don’t think Tomasz has any of those! Jason’s got strength, he’s got speed, he’s got movement.

News: Sergiy Dzinziruk; Mikkel Kessler; Melissa Hernandez

Statement Sergiy Dzinziruk and Universum: Sergiy Dzinziruk: "Universum and i have both agreed to part ways. We have had constructive conversations and have found a way to dissolve my contract. I am grateful to Universum fro my success in recent years and for the ability to become a professional Boxer. Under Klaus-Peter Kohl i became the WBO world Champion and i am extremely grateful to him for that. I would like to stress that the statements made about Universum and me in various media outlets in the past are false and have not originated from me personally. Universum has always been a reliable partner and is one of the world's elite promoters..

Harold Lederman Interview

LedermanBy Mark Pickering - Many boxing fans may not even know what he looks like but his authoritative tones have decorated HBO broadcasts since 1986.

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing author, award winning judge and acclaimed analyst Harold Lederman.

Q: For many you’re the voice of authority on the HBO team - looking back was there a moment when you realised you'd made it as a judge?

A: I started judging Professional Boxing in 1967 after two years of judging amateur boxing and a lot of experience as a fan keeping score at the fights. I knew from day one that I could judge. I was a dedicated judge, and I knew what I was looking at.

Q: What would you say are the most commonly mistaken rules in boxing? Or glaring errors fans and even commentators make?

A: A lot of fans think that if a fighter is being held up by the ropes and the referee calls it a knockdown it is a standing eight. There is no such thing as a standing eight. If you get hit by a legal punch and the ropes prevent you from going down, the ref can rule it the same as if your gloves touched the canvas.

News: Grano vs Brown II; Alvarez vs Camacho; Ismayl Sillak

The rematch between heavyweights Tony “TNT” Grano and Mark “Oak Tree” Brown headlines the March 12 pro boxing card, “Brace For Impact,” presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Sports and Entertainment, Inc. (CES), in Fox Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Conn. Brown (15-2, 7 KOs) overcame two knockdowns to stop Grano, fighting out of Hebron (CT), in the eighth round of their WBF All-Americas title bout Sept. 27, 2008.

Mosley vs Mayweather - Will It Actually Happen!?!

by James Slater - Golden Boy's Richard Schaefer was not a happy man yesterday. The top promoter admitted to ESPN.com that he is concerned the planned May 1st mega-fight between "Sugar" Shane Mosley and Floyd Mayweather Junior may be in "trouble." The reason for the former Swiss banker's consternation is the fact that although WBA 147-pound king Mosley signed the fight contract last Friday, Mayweather has still not signed.

Six Questions With Antonio DeMarco

boxingNEW YORK (Feb. 2, 2010) — A winner of 12 in a row and unbeaten in his last 16 (15-0-1) dating to May 2006, World Boxing Council interim champion Antonio DeMarco (23-1-1, 17 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico, will challenge devastating Venezuelan and WBC lightweight belt-holder, Edwin Valero (26-0, 26 KOs), in the main event this Saturday, Feb. 6, on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

The event at Arena Monterrey will mark the first time a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING broadcast has aired from Mexico since March 7, 1998, when Julio Cesar Chavez boxed a draw with Miguel Angel Gonzalez. It’s the first card on SHOWTIME from Monterrey in more than 15 years, or since Chavez stopped Tony Lopez on Dec. 10, 1994.

SHOWTIME caught up with DeMarco for his thoughts on this Saturday’s scheduled 12-round bout.

Freddy Hernandez Faces Chop Chop Corley In Friday's ShoBox Main Event

NEW YORK (Feb. 3, 2010) – One night before two-time world champion Edwin Valero (26-0, 26 KOs) defends his World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight crown against WBC 135-pound interim titleholder Antonio DeMarco (23-1-1, 17 KOs) in Monterrey, Mexico, on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/PT), once-beaten Freddy “El Riel’’ Hernandez (27-1, 18 KOs), of Lynwood, Calif., will take on former world champion, southpaw DeMarcus “Chop Chop’’ Corley (36-12-1, 21 KOs), of Washington, D.C., in the 10-round welterweight main event on ShoBox: The New Generation on SHOWTIME® (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

Hopkins vs Jones II Official

NEW YORK (February 1) . . . After 17 years the wait is over as sure-fire future Hall of Famers Bernard "The Executioner" Hopkins and Roy "The Terminator" Jones Jr. collide in a long awaited rematch that will add the final chapter to their 17-year rivalry. The Rivals: Hopkins vs. Jones II is set for Saturday, April 3 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nev. The bout will be broadcast live on pay-per-view beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

The fighters will participate in a press tour with stops in New York and Los Angeles next Tuesday and Wednesday, February 9 and 10, respectively.

Eddie Chambers, Jesse Brinkley and Jason Estrada Join On The Ropes Boxing Radio - Ep. 58 LIVE at 6 PM ET!

Klitschko vs Chambersby Jenna J -- Click here to listen to the show -- As always, this week's 58th edition of On the Ropes will start at its regularly scheduled time, 6pm Eastern Time. You can listen live by clicking “play” on the player or enter our chat on the blogtalk message board; you can also call into the show at (646)716-5404.

On the Ropes is is back to bring you the latest and greatest in the world of boxing! Join me Jenna J, the Hostess, along with my brilliant Producer Geoffrey Ciani (aka-Rummy).

Topics for Discussion

· Shane Mosley and Floyd Mayweather reaching an agreement for May 1
· Jesse Brinkley’s upset victory over Curtis Stevens
· Rumored fight between Jesse Brinkley and Lucian Bute
· Talks of a fight between Kelly Pavlik and Sergio Martinez on April 17 or 24

News: Nonito Donaire; Hallback vs Holm; Fight Promoter University

World Boxing Association (WBA) interim super flyweight champion and Top-10 Pound For Pound fighter NONITO “The Filipino Flash” DONAIRE, will host a Las Vegas Media Workout at the Top Rank Gym (3041 Business Lane, Las Vegas, Nev., 89103), Tomorrow! Wednesday, February 3, beginning at Noon PT. The workout will be open to the public. Managed by Cameron Dunkin, Donaire (22-1, 14 KOs), of General Santos City, Philippines, fighting out of San Leandro, Calif., defends his title against top-rated contender Gerson Guerrero (34-8, 26 KOs), of Mexico City, in the main event of “Latin Fury 13 / Pinoy Power 3..

UK Boxing: Carl Johanneson; Woolford vs Mutley; Booth-Munroe?

CARL JOHANNESON ends a ring exile of almost two years when he returns at Nottingham's Harvey Hadden Centre on Friday night (5th Feb) - The Leeds puncher (27-4) faces Youssef Al Hamidi in his first contest since losing the British super-featherweight title against Kevin Mitchell on March 2008. Johanneson, 31, was stopped in nine rounds, but the scrap was a sensational slugfest. And Carl who has 19 inside the distance win has targeted regaining his old title and then stepping up to lightweight and facing Mitchell in a return.

Timur Ibragimov, Dmitry Pirog, And Vitaly Demyanenko Headline A Moscow Card This Saturday

boxingby Pavel Yakovlev (2/1/10) - Heavyweights Timur Ibragimov and Awadh Tamim will finally meet this Saturday, six weeks after their original match was postponed due to a training injury sustained by Ibragimov. The fight is scheduled for 12 rounds, and it is reportedly for regional belts sanctioned by the WBA and IBA.

Tamim (11-1; six kayos) is a heavy underdog against the seasoned Ibragimov. However the fight could prove to be action packed. In a previous appearance in Russia against Denis Bakhtov, Tamim revealed himself to be a swarming, aggressive fighter with a stiff left jab and a strong overhand right. The Tanzanian native has fast hands and is powerfully built, standing 6’1/2” tall, and weighing 230 lbs.

Ibragimov (26-2-1; 14 kayos), although known chiefly as a safety-first technical boxer, can be explosive when he connects with his heavy right hand.

Groundhog Prediction On Pacquiao vs. Clottey

GOBBLER'S KNOB, (Groundhog Day 2010) -- At 7:25 A.M. today, Punxsutawney Phil -- the Seer of Seers, Prognosticator of all Prognosticators -- emerged from his burrow at Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Penn, and proclaimed, in his native Groundhogese, that MANNY "PacMan" PACQUIAO'S dominance over his era’s top fighters would continue with a successful defense of his World Boxing Organization welterweight title against former International Boxing Federation welterweight champion and current No. 1 contender Joshua Clottey on Saturday, March 13, at Jerry Jones’ Cowboys Stadium!

News: Andy Kolle; Jargal vs Leija; Joey Dawejko

Minnesota’s middleweight champion is slated to make his return to the ring this Friday. Andy “Kaos” Kolle (19-2 14 KO’s) will take on power punching Pat “The Cat” Coleman (29-15 20 KO’s) on February 5 at First Avenue in Minneapolis. Kolle is coming off of a highlight reel knockout of Anthony Bonsante in March, and an impressive stoppage of Anthony Shuler in June. Although Kolle has been inactive for six months he insists that February 5th presents an opportunity to not only get back into action, but turn some heads in the Twin Cities.

The Nightmare Diary: Raising the Dead!

Arreola vs MintoBy P.H. Burbridge - The first loss for a professional fighter is always traumatic. It’s especially difficult when you’re a high profile prospect who is seen as a possible future champion. There’s a healthy segment of our fan population who get as much pleasure out of watching a fighter fail as others get enjoyment watching him succeed. When you lose in this sport people are all too happy to dismiss you. With his recent loss to WBC heavyweight champion, Vitali Klitschko, Cristobal “The Nightmare” Arreola (28-1, 25 KO’s) has entered a stage in his career that a lot of fighters never emerge from. “Prospect purgatory” is a phrase I’ve coined to describe fighter’s who once showed great promise but when all is said and done that’s the only thing you remember about them.

Chris Arreola is in danger of having his name added to that list if he doesn’t make some significant and PERMANENT changes.

Marquez Vs. Diaz: 2009 Fight Of The Year

LOS ANGELES, February 1 - The Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA) has spoken, and the verdict is that the February 28, 2009 battle between Juan Manuel "Dinamita" Marquez and Juan "Baby Bull" Diaz is the winner of the 2009 Muhammad Ali-Joe Frazier award for Fight of The Year. "This is a great honor and receiving this award is one of the highlights of my career," said Marquez, who stopped Diaz in the ninth round of their unforgettable war at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas.

Valero Defends WBC Belt Against DeMarco In Mexico This Saturday On SHOWTIME

NEW YORK (Feb. 1, 2010) – SHOWTIME Sports® will present a fight card from Mexico for the first time in nearly 12 years when devastating, undefeated knockout artist and two-time world champion Edwin Valero (26-0, 26 KOs), of Las Vegas, Nev., by way of Merida, Venezuela, defends his World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight crown against streaking, once-beaten WBC 135-pound interim titleholder Antonio DeMarco (23-1-1, 17 KOs) of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, on Saturday, Feb. 6.

'Left-Hook Lounge': Vivek Wallace's mailbag feat. Pacquiao, Mayweather/Mosley, Margarito, Herschel Walker

mayweatherRonald D. (Atlanta, GA): If both Pacquiao and Mayweather win their pending showdowns, who do you think would be the bona fide P4P king of the sport?

Vivek W. (ESB): Many who have followed my work over the years knows full well that I've never been a huge fan of the whole mythical P4P convo because personally, I think it's all in the eyes and minds of the beholder these days. The term P4P as initially designed when used to describe the great 'Sugar' Ray Robinson was a term that explained the greatness of a boxer whose PURE TEXT BOOK FUNDAMENTAL TALENTS would be able to transcend any era in time, regardless of weight, size, or otherwise. In this modern era, the term has been modified to include items such as resume (or wars encountered), guts, and all of this other machismo stuff. While I do think that resume (wars encountered) help us to measure certain aspects of a fighter, I personally subscribe to the old-school text book definition of the term. That being said, someone like a Robinson, Willie Pep, or a Floyd Mayweather jr. would always stack higher on my personal list in their respective era's. To many, the art of war is far more important, and I respect that vision greatly, but while it's a blast to watch, truthfully, how much skill does it really take? If anything, that kinda fight is all guts and durability, which, if we used as the measure of principle, a true P4P list would look more like Glen Johnson, Margarito, and Pavlik, than Robinson, Pep, or James Toney.

Canadian prospect Adonis Stevenson spars Arthur Abraham

Mark Pickering: Undefeated Canadian powerhouse Adonis Stevenson is sharpening his skills as a sparring partner for Super Six front-runner Arthur Abraham who is working towards his second-round meeting with Andre Dirrell on March 6.

Stevenson, who at 32 is three years Abraham’s senior, is a highly-regarded southpaw who is best known for his first-round demolition of veteran Anthony Bonsante in 2008.

Can Odlanier Solis Become The First To KO Carl Davis Drummond?

by James Slater - While fans are keen to see unbeaten Cuban heavyweight Odlanier Solis take a step up in class so they can judge on whether or not the Olympic gold medallist is the real deal or not, they will have to make do with the 29-year-old taking on Carl Davis Drummond in his next outing instead. No disrespect to the 34-year-old from Costa Rica, but fans aren't really going to get too excited at the thought of this fight - set for March 20th in Florida.

Adamek/Estrada Ticket Sales Pack a Heavy Punch

Adamek vs EstradaTicket sales for the February 6th, Tomasz Adamek vs. Jason Estrada, IBF Heavyweight International Championship at Prudential Center, Newark, NJ, have been selling at a record setting pace. The $38 seats sold out early and as of Saturday the $103 seats are also sold out. There are still great seats available. There are a handful of premium Ringside seats available at $253, a small amount of terrific $78 seats, as well as affordable $53 tickets.

"Tickets are selling at an unprecedented pace and we expect a huge, rollicking crowd to come out on Saturday and join in all the fun and excitement”, said Kathy Duva, CEO Main Events.

This fight is promoted by Main Events and Ziggy Promotions in association with Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc. Tickets can be purchased at: Prudential Center Box Office; by calling TicketMaster at 800-745-3000; or visiting www.prucenter.com.

New Year, New Edner

Anthony Ivey: With a new year comes a time for change. A chance to make that perfunctory New Year’s resolution, which most of us waiver on by the time February comes around. For Edner Cherry, the New Year brought a slew of changes. With a new manager, new trainer, as well as new promoter, Cherry will also be competing at a different weight class, jr. lightweight. “It’s a New Year, so everything is new for me,” states Cherry. “I even have a baby on the way any day now.” Cherry, 25-6-2 with 13 KO’s, will see main event action on February 19th at the Al La Carte Pavilion in Tampa, Florida. The card is promoted by Fight Night Productions, as well Cherry’s new promoter, TKO Promotions.


 

0 comments:

Post a Comment

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)

Click Here

ESPN News

Labels

Up-coming Sports Events

Blog Archive

Live Cricket Score

Hitstats

Click Here