Boxing News Thread
- Thread starter heyzel
- Start date
Jones Jr. Camp Hunting for Meals in Forest
Roy “Captain Hook” Jones Jr. is in training camp in California, PA, thirty minutes south of Pittsburgh preparing for his August 15 “Hook City” showdown against Jeff “Left Hook” Lacy. The event, presented by Square Ring Promotions in association with Left Hook Promotions and Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, will be broadcast live on pay-per-view..
The camp headquarters at Buzz Garnic’s Round 2 Boxing Gym, which houses Alton “Coach” Merkerson along with Square Ring Promotions stable mates Verquan Kimbrough, Kieyon Bussey and various sparring partners, is located at the top of a hill at the edge of a forest.
On Monday, “Coach Merk” was at the kitchen sink when he noticed a large ground hog at the edge of the woods. He retrieved his rifle, slid open the kitchen window screen and shot the ‘hog.’ He nailed it from 50 yards away. “I was in the Army for twenty-one years and have shot a lot of stuff, so this was no big deal,” said the retired Army Sergeant, who spent numerous stints in Vietnam. Merk put the hog in a cooler on ice where it sat for the evening training session.
After training, Bussey, also from the great hunting area of Pensacola, skinned and filleted the hog outside the house. While preparing the hog, Bussey thought he had heard some heavy breathing and thought it was the 300-pound black bear that has been spotted in the area numerous times. It wasn’t the bear; it was the breathing of Verquan “The Show” Kimbrough, former NABA and USBA lightweight champion from nearby Aliquippa, who will be on the broadcast portion of “Hook City.” Kimbrough, known for taking up to four showers a day, wanted nothing to do with Monday’s kill and Bussey chased him around the yard with the now-filleted hog.
“Big Roy, Little Roy, Kieyon and I will eat it tonight,” said Merkerson. “It’s nothing but lean meat and tastes great with marinade (balsamic vinegar) and a little salt. It’ll be good for Roy.”
Roy “Captain Hook” Jones Jr. is in training camp in California, PA, thirty minutes south of Pittsburgh preparing for his August 15 “Hook City” showdown against Jeff “Left Hook” Lacy. The event, presented by Square Ring Promotions in association with Left Hook Promotions and Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, will be broadcast live on pay-per-view..
The camp headquarters at Buzz Garnic’s Round 2 Boxing Gym, which houses Alton “Coach” Merkerson along with Square Ring Promotions stable mates Verquan Kimbrough, Kieyon Bussey and various sparring partners, is located at the top of a hill at the edge of a forest.
On Monday, “Coach Merk” was at the kitchen sink when he noticed a large ground hog at the edge of the woods. He retrieved his rifle, slid open the kitchen window screen and shot the ‘hog.’ He nailed it from 50 yards away. “I was in the Army for twenty-one years and have shot a lot of stuff, so this was no big deal,” said the retired Army Sergeant, who spent numerous stints in Vietnam. Merk put the hog in a cooler on ice where it sat for the evening training session.
After training, Bussey, also from the great hunting area of Pensacola, skinned and filleted the hog outside the house. While preparing the hog, Bussey thought he had heard some heavy breathing and thought it was the 300-pound black bear that has been spotted in the area numerous times. It wasn’t the bear; it was the breathing of Verquan “The Show” Kimbrough, former NABA and USBA lightweight champion from nearby Aliquippa, who will be on the broadcast portion of “Hook City.” Kimbrough, known for taking up to four showers a day, wanted nothing to do with Monday’s kill and Bussey chased him around the yard with the now-filleted hog.
“Big Roy, Little Roy, Kieyon and I will eat it tonight,” said Merkerson. “It’s nothing but lean meat and tastes great with marinade (balsamic vinegar) and a little salt. It’ll be good for Roy.”
News: Eddie Chambers; Lance Whitaker; Ronald Hearns
PHILADELPHIA (July 28, 2009)—This Friday night, the number-one ranked Heavyweight in the world, “Fast” Eddie Chambers will be the special in-studio guest analyst for ESPN 2 Friday Night Fights. Chambers, 35-1 with eighteen knockouts will join Brian Kenny in the studio to give his thoughts on the goings on in the boxing world as well as the fights that will include a terrific Lightweight main event between former world champion Julio Diaz and Victor Cayo..
“I am very excited to get this tremendous opportunity”, said Chambers.
“I am a real student of the game and can’t wait to share my thoughts with the fans. The boxing fans have been asking me every day about the title shot with Klitschko so I am eager to answer those questions as well as break down my fight with Dimitrenko that I had on July 4th”
Chambers is coming off the aforementioned Majority decision over Alexander Dimitrenko this past July 4th in Hamburg, Germany that put him in position for a chance to fight Wladimir Klitschko coming up sometime this winter.
WHITAKER WASTES NO TIME IN GETTING BACK IN THE RING !!
Los Angeles (Tuesday, July 28th, 2009). Fresh of his recent unanimous defeat against Danny Batchelder. Lance “Mount” Whitaker (33-5-1, 27KO’s) will be back in action Friday, August 21, at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, as he continues his campaign back to title contention. Opponent to be named shortly.
“All roads lead to the Klitschko’s, well, lead the way! I can’t wait to get back in the ring and prove I am ready to take on the best… and WIN… the division is wide open and I am dedicated to doing what I need to do to bring the title back to the US”-Lance Whitaker
Los Angeles based promoter SouthBay Promotions will present a spectacular mixed card of boxing and MMA, featuring tremendous local talent.
Entire card will be announced soon.
Doors: 7:00pm
Tickets: $250-200-100-75-50-35. Call to purchase (310) 303-0116
“FIGHT NIGHT AT FRONTIER” RETURNS TO ROCHESTER AUGUST 13 FEATURING RONALD HEARNS, UNBEATEN PROSPECTS
(July 28, 2009) DiBella Entertainment and Resnick Productions are teaming up to bring the next installment of “Fight Night at Frontier” to boxing fans at Frontier Field in Rochester, NY on Thursday, August 13. Headlining the show will be junior middleweight contender Ronald Hearns, supported by fights featuring the best young talent upstate New York and the rest of the country has to offer.
Hearns (21-1, 17 KOs), son of former middleweight champion Tommy Hearns, has already shown the power and polish in his young career that made his father a star. That prowess will be tested when he squares off with grizzled veteran Patrick Thompson (15-14-1, 5 KOs). “Fight Night at Frontier” fans will certainly remember Hearns’ first appearance on the series - a devastating second round knockout of Edson Aguirre in 2007.
Lou DiBella, the event’s co-promoter, is thrilled to be bringing a world class talent like his fighter, Ronald Hearns, to the fans in Rochester to headline what promises to be a memorable night at Frontier Field.
“There is no doubt Ronald Hearns has all the tools to challenge for a world title,” said DiBella. “He has all the skills, and of course the power, that comes with his last name. Fans in Rochester are in for a treat when they see just how good Ronald can be.”
The undercard will showcase a pair of young, local fighters being co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Resnick Productions – Willie Monroe, Jr., and Aleem “Hammer” Whitfield – along with DBE’s explosive light heavyweight prospect out of Detroit, Isiah Thomas, and rising super middleweight Jonathan Nelson of Little Rock, AR.
Monroe (5-0, 2 KOs), of Rochester, NY, has only been a pro for 16 months, but already he has taken the local boxing scene by storm, contesting all but one of his bouts in Rochester. In his sixth pro contest he again hopes to excite his hometown fan base with another electric performance as he continues his campaign in the middleweight division.
Whitfield, of Geneva, NY, is another product of the area, and will be looking for a big start to his professional career when he makes his pro debut on the show. An accomplished amateur whose successes included a second place finish at the 2008 National Golden Gloves, Whitfield has already gained notoriety away from the ring after being featured in an episode of the ABC hit show Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.
Thomas (4-0, 4 KOs), of Detroit, MI, is perfect thus far in his young career, having knocked out every fighter he’s stepped in with. A southpaw with seasoned boxing skills and tremendous power, Thomas will bring his show on road to Rochester in an attempt to keep his impressive knockout streak intact.
Nelson (10-0, 5 KOs), a stablemate of former undisputed middleweight Champion Jermain Taylor, has been making a name for himself at 168-lbs. With three wins thus far in 2009, Nelson will look to build on an already impressive year in the ring.
PHILADELPHIA (July 28, 2009)—This Friday night, the number-one ranked Heavyweight in the world, “Fast” Eddie Chambers will be the special in-studio guest analyst for ESPN 2 Friday Night Fights. Chambers, 35-1 with eighteen knockouts will join Brian Kenny in the studio to give his thoughts on the goings on in the boxing world as well as the fights that will include a terrific Lightweight main event between former world champion Julio Diaz and Victor Cayo..
“I am very excited to get this tremendous opportunity”, said Chambers.
“I am a real student of the game and can’t wait to share my thoughts with the fans. The boxing fans have been asking me every day about the title shot with Klitschko so I am eager to answer those questions as well as break down my fight with Dimitrenko that I had on July 4th”
Chambers is coming off the aforementioned Majority decision over Alexander Dimitrenko this past July 4th in Hamburg, Germany that put him in position for a chance to fight Wladimir Klitschko coming up sometime this winter.
WHITAKER WASTES NO TIME IN GETTING BACK IN THE RING !!
Los Angeles (Tuesday, July 28th, 2009). Fresh of his recent unanimous defeat against Danny Batchelder. Lance “Mount” Whitaker (33-5-1, 27KO’s) will be back in action Friday, August 21, at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, as he continues his campaign back to title contention. Opponent to be named shortly.
“All roads lead to the Klitschko’s, well, lead the way! I can’t wait to get back in the ring and prove I am ready to take on the best… and WIN… the division is wide open and I am dedicated to doing what I need to do to bring the title back to the US”-Lance Whitaker
Los Angeles based promoter SouthBay Promotions will present a spectacular mixed card of boxing and MMA, featuring tremendous local talent.
Entire card will be announced soon.
Doors: 7:00pm
Tickets: $250-200-100-75-50-35. Call to purchase (310) 303-0116
“FIGHT NIGHT AT FRONTIER” RETURNS TO ROCHESTER AUGUST 13 FEATURING RONALD HEARNS, UNBEATEN PROSPECTS
(July 28, 2009) DiBella Entertainment and Resnick Productions are teaming up to bring the next installment of “Fight Night at Frontier” to boxing fans at Frontier Field in Rochester, NY on Thursday, August 13. Headlining the show will be junior middleweight contender Ronald Hearns, supported by fights featuring the best young talent upstate New York and the rest of the country has to offer.
Hearns (21-1, 17 KOs), son of former middleweight champion Tommy Hearns, has already shown the power and polish in his young career that made his father a star. That prowess will be tested when he squares off with grizzled veteran Patrick Thompson (15-14-1, 5 KOs). “Fight Night at Frontier” fans will certainly remember Hearns’ first appearance on the series - a devastating second round knockout of Edson Aguirre in 2007.
Lou DiBella, the event’s co-promoter, is thrilled to be bringing a world class talent like his fighter, Ronald Hearns, to the fans in Rochester to headline what promises to be a memorable night at Frontier Field.
“There is no doubt Ronald Hearns has all the tools to challenge for a world title,” said DiBella. “He has all the skills, and of course the power, that comes with his last name. Fans in Rochester are in for a treat when they see just how good Ronald can be.”
The undercard will showcase a pair of young, local fighters being co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Resnick Productions – Willie Monroe, Jr., and Aleem “Hammer” Whitfield – along with DBE’s explosive light heavyweight prospect out of Detroit, Isiah Thomas, and rising super middleweight Jonathan Nelson of Little Rock, AR.
Monroe (5-0, 2 KOs), of Rochester, NY, has only been a pro for 16 months, but already he has taken the local boxing scene by storm, contesting all but one of his bouts in Rochester. In his sixth pro contest he again hopes to excite his hometown fan base with another electric performance as he continues his campaign in the middleweight division.
Whitfield, of Geneva, NY, is another product of the area, and will be looking for a big start to his professional career when he makes his pro debut on the show. An accomplished amateur whose successes included a second place finish at the 2008 National Golden Gloves, Whitfield has already gained notoriety away from the ring after being featured in an episode of the ABC hit show Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.
Thomas (4-0, 4 KOs), of Detroit, MI, is perfect thus far in his young career, having knocked out every fighter he’s stepped in with. A southpaw with seasoned boxing skills and tremendous power, Thomas will bring his show on road to Rochester in an attempt to keep his impressive knockout streak intact.
Nelson (10-0, 5 KOs), a stablemate of former undisputed middleweight Champion Jermain Taylor, has been making a name for himself at 168-lbs. With three wins thus far in 2009, Nelson will look to build on an already impressive year in the ring.
Mikkel Kessler vs. Gusmyl Perdomo on Showtime!
I am happy to be back in the ring,” said Kessler, who is slated to face undefeated 2004 Olympic Games gold medalist Andre "S.O.G." Ward on Nov. 21, in the first group stage of the talent-laden Super Six World Boxing Classic, a six-fighter super middleweight tournament.
“As the mandatory challenger, Perdomo deserves to fight for the title (but) I want to take my WBA belt into the tournament.
“(This) is the last obstacle that I need to overcome. I will be prepared and I will be ready. I will definitely not underestimate him.”
Perdomo is a capable, game southpaw who fights out of Germany. He has won two straight and seven of his last eight. He has never been knocked out.
Perdomo’s only defeats came on points to German contenders Mario Veit on a majority decision and to Dmitry Sartison, who would go on to challenge Kessler, in a tight fight the German-based Venezuelan lost by only one point on two of the scorecards and two points on the other.
ShoBox announcers Nick Charles and Steve Farhood will call the action. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.
For more information on SHOWTIME Sports, including complete details on the Super Six World Boxing Classic, Strikeforce mixed martial arts telecasts, exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, and more, please visit the website at http://sports.sho.com.
About ShoBox: The New Generation
I am happy to be back in the ring,” said Kessler, who is slated to face undefeated 2004 Olympic Games gold medalist Andre "S.O.G." Ward on Nov. 21, in the first group stage of the talent-laden Super Six World Boxing Classic, a six-fighter super middleweight tournament.
“As the mandatory challenger, Perdomo deserves to fight for the title (but) I want to take my WBA belt into the tournament.
“(This) is the last obstacle that I need to overcome. I will be prepared and I will be ready. I will definitely not underestimate him.”
Perdomo is a capable, game southpaw who fights out of Germany. He has won two straight and seven of his last eight. He has never been knocked out.
Perdomo’s only defeats came on points to German contenders Mario Veit on a majority decision and to Dmitry Sartison, who would go on to challenge Kessler, in a tight fight the German-based Venezuelan lost by only one point on two of the scorecards and two points on the other.
ShoBox announcers Nick Charles and Steve Farhood will call the action. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.
For more information on SHOWTIME Sports, including complete details on the Super Six World Boxing Classic, Strikeforce mixed martial arts telecasts, exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, and more, please visit the website at http://sports.sho.com.
About ShoBox: The New Generation
Kelly Pavlik vs. Paul Williams: Progress Being Made
By Rick Reeno
After the two sides hit a serious roadblock, BoxingScene.com was informed that progress is being made in the ongoing negotiations to finalize a middleweight fight between WBC/WBO champion Kelly Pavlik and challenger Paul "The Punisher" Williams. The fight would take place on September 26 with Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City as the most likely venue. As previously reported, HBO is offering $3.75 million for the fight. Pavlik would get $1.75 [plus a piece of gate, etc.], Williams to get $1.55 and Top Rank would get $500K.
According to several sources, Top Rank has raised their offer to Williams. Two different numbers are being thrown around I've yet to confirm, at the present, the actual new number. From what I know, the offer still appears to be a straight buyout - with Williams and his promoter Dan Goossen receiving no percentage of the gate and/or sponsorship money [estimated at a few million between the two]. And that is the major obstacle to overcome in finalizing the deal. Obviously Goossen would like his side to get a piece of the gate and other sources of revenue generated from the fight.
Both sides have strong arguments but Williams' side is holding an ace up their sleeve. I'll get to the ace later. Top Rank argues that Pavlik is the draw, will sell the majority of the tickets and their fighter is the champion. Williams does bring a lot to table. What he brings is nearly $2 million more than HBO was willing to pay [$2 million] for Pavlik vs. Felix Sturm.
The ace in Williams' corner is more or less a guaranteed date on HBO. If Pavlik-Williams crumbles, Williams is probably going to fight on October 3, on HBO, against WBO junior middleweight champion Sergei Dzinziruk [or another HBO approved opponent]. Pavlik on the other hand is backed against a wall because there is no guarantee that he gets a date on HBO, at least in 2009. That gives Williams and Goossen an advantage in the negotiations because Pavlik has not appeared on HBO since last year's decision loss to Bernard Hopkins, and he needs to get back in the spotlight with a strong win over a strong opponent to erase the stench of the Hopkins loss. On the other side, Williams’ career would reach new heights if he were to beat the number one middleweight in the world. That would open up some heavy opportunities for Williams in the future.
Pavlik-Williams is a very strong fight and both of these guys need this kind of fight. The fact that both sides are still talking and trying to work things out is a good sign. Hopefully they sit down; both sides budge a little bit, HBO gets involved and they finalize the deal
By Rick Reeno
After the two sides hit a serious roadblock, BoxingScene.com was informed that progress is being made in the ongoing negotiations to finalize a middleweight fight between WBC/WBO champion Kelly Pavlik and challenger Paul "The Punisher" Williams. The fight would take place on September 26 with Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City as the most likely venue. As previously reported, HBO is offering $3.75 million for the fight. Pavlik would get $1.75 [plus a piece of gate, etc.], Williams to get $1.55 and Top Rank would get $500K.
According to several sources, Top Rank has raised their offer to Williams. Two different numbers are being thrown around I've yet to confirm, at the present, the actual new number. From what I know, the offer still appears to be a straight buyout - with Williams and his promoter Dan Goossen receiving no percentage of the gate and/or sponsorship money [estimated at a few million between the two]. And that is the major obstacle to overcome in finalizing the deal. Obviously Goossen would like his side to get a piece of the gate and other sources of revenue generated from the fight.
Both sides have strong arguments but Williams' side is holding an ace up their sleeve. I'll get to the ace later. Top Rank argues that Pavlik is the draw, will sell the majority of the tickets and their fighter is the champion. Williams does bring a lot to table. What he brings is nearly $2 million more than HBO was willing to pay [$2 million] for Pavlik vs. Felix Sturm.
The ace in Williams' corner is more or less a guaranteed date on HBO. If Pavlik-Williams crumbles, Williams is probably going to fight on October 3, on HBO, against WBO junior middleweight champion Sergei Dzinziruk [or another HBO approved opponent]. Pavlik on the other hand is backed against a wall because there is no guarantee that he gets a date on HBO, at least in 2009. That gives Williams and Goossen an advantage in the negotiations because Pavlik has not appeared on HBO since last year's decision loss to Bernard Hopkins, and he needs to get back in the spotlight with a strong win over a strong opponent to erase the stench of the Hopkins loss. On the other side, Williams’ career would reach new heights if he were to beat the number one middleweight in the world. That would open up some heavy opportunities for Williams in the future.
Pavlik-Williams is a very strong fight and both of these guys need this kind of fight. The fact that both sides are still talking and trying to work things out is a good sign. Hopefully they sit down; both sides budge a little bit, HBO gets involved and they finalize the deal
Katsidis-Escobedo, Green-Bika on Mayweather-Marquez?
By Rick Reeno
While the co-feature is set [Chris John vs. Rocky Juarez II], BoxingScene.com was advised that two more fights are being discussed for the Floyd Mayweather Jr vs. Juan Manuel Marquez pay-per-view undercard on September 19 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. The more likely of the two, as far as landing on the show, is Michael Katsidis in a lightweight bout with Vicente Escobedo. The other bout would pit super middleweights Sakio Bika and Allan Green in a fight with some heavy potential for fireworks. Neither fight is a lock for the card.
Mayweather Promotions and Al Haymon are taking the lead on the show's promotional end, and the money. I hear the amount of money being offered will be the main determining factor in whether or not these fights will land on the show.
By Rick Reeno
While the co-feature is set [Chris John vs. Rocky Juarez II], BoxingScene.com was advised that two more fights are being discussed for the Floyd Mayweather Jr vs. Juan Manuel Marquez pay-per-view undercard on September 19 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. The more likely of the two, as far as landing on the show, is Michael Katsidis in a lightweight bout with Vicente Escobedo. The other bout would pit super middleweights Sakio Bika and Allan Green in a fight with some heavy potential for fireworks. Neither fight is a lock for the card.
Mayweather Promotions and Al Haymon are taking the lead on the show's promotional end, and the money. I hear the amount of money being offered will be the main determining factor in whether or not these fights will land on the show.
Joan Guzman Signs With Golden Boy, Jones-Tackie is On
LOS ANGELES - Perhaps the greatest boxer to ever come out of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo's Joan Guzman has already compiled a spectacular resume that includes a 1996 Olympic berth, 29 professional wins without a defeat and world titles in two weight classes. The 33-year-old Guzman, however, is far from done and has now enlisted Golden Boy Promotions to help lead him to a third world championship.
"This is a special day for me in my career," said Guzman. "I've always admired Oscar de la Hoya in the ring as a boxer and outside of it for what he's done with his promotional company. This is the team that will take me to the top of the lightweight division again and I couldn't be happier."
"Everyone in boxing knows how good Joan Guzman is," said Oscar de la Hoya, President of Golden Boy Promotions. "He can box with the best of them and he can also knock you out with either hand. Now it's time for Joan to take things even further with super fights against the best fighters around the lightweight division have to offer and we're going to take him there. Boxing fans are going to be in for a treat when they see what Joan brings to the ring in the future."
One of the greatest amateur boxers to ever lace up a pair of gloves, Joan "Little Tyson" Guzman (29-0, 17 KO's) compiled an amazing 310-10 record while winning Gold Medals at the Pan American, Central American and Caribbean Games in addition to earning a spot on the 1996 Dominican Republic Olympic Team. He turned professional in 1997 and earned a reputation as a knockout artist thanks to an early 17-0 start with 13 KO's. In August of 2002, he won his first World Title as he knocked out unbeaten Argentinean Fabio Oliva for the vacant WBO World Junior Featherweight Title. Guzman defended the title twice (including a seventh round stoppage of former World Champion and countryman Agapito "Ciclon" Sanchez) before moving up in weight. In September of 2006, he won his second world title belt by defeating Argentinean former World Champion Jorge Rodrigo "La Hiena" Barrios by decision for the WBO World Junior Lightweight title. After two more defenses of his crown, Guzman moved up to the 135-pound weight class and in his last bout on December 20, 2008, he won the WBA Fedelatin Lightweight title by defeating Ameth Diaz over 12 rounds.
ATLANTIC CITY, NJ—Former world-title challenger Ben Tackie will replace Larry Mosley in a 10-round fight against unbeaten Mike Jones on Saturday evening, Aug. 8, at Bally’s Atlantic City.
At stake in the scheduled 10-round contest will be Jones’ world ranking and his North American Boxing Association (NABA) title.
The ill-fated Jones-Mosley fight, previously canceled from the original dates of March 6 in Philadelphia and June 6 at Bally’s, imploded for the third and last time this weekend when poison from a growth on Mosley’s face got into the fighter’s bloodstream, necessitating surgery.
“I’m out of the Jones-Mosley business,” said Hall-of-Fame promoter J Russell Peltz, of Philadelphia, PA. “Mosley hurt his back in March; Jones strained a bicep in June. Some fights are not meant to be and this was one of them.”
Tackie, 36, of Accra, Ghana, figures to provide Jones with his toughest fight. He has never been stopped in 41 fights and he has been in there with the best , including Ricky Hatton, Kostya Tszyu, Sharmba Mitchell, Juan Lazcano and Kendall Holt.
His 29-11-1 record includes 17 knockouts and wins over Edwin Santana, Hicklet Lau, Fred Pendleton, Golden Johnson, Ray Oliveira, Teddy Reid and Wilfredo Negron.
Now living in the Bronx, New York, Tackie held several minor belts but lost on points after 12 rounds to Tszyu in 2002 in Las Vegas for the unified junior welterweight title.
Jones, 26, is one of boxing’s hottest prospects. His 17-0 record includes 15 knockouts and he won the va cant NABA title Aug. 29, 2008, when he K0d Juliano Ramos, a Brazilian living in Boca Raton, FL, in six rounds at the New Alhambra in South Philadelphia.
In his first defense last March 6, Jones was set to fight Mosley, who had to cancel out five days earlier with a back injury. Instead, Jones K0d late sub Dairo Esalas, of Miami, FL, in two rounds at the Blue Horizon in North Philadelphia.
Two weeks prior to the re-scheduled fight with Mosley on June 6 at Bally’s, Jones strained the bicep on his left arm and had to cancel.
A pro since 2005, Jones has beaten Doel Carrasquillo, of Lancaster, PA; Israel “Pito” Cardona, of Hartford, CT; Gilbert Venegas, of Moline, IL.
Jones’ two hardest fights came last year against a pair of Chicago, IL, fighters.
In his only ESPN 2 appearance March 28, 2008, Jones rallied in the last two rounds to earn an eight-round decision over Germaine Sanders at the Seneca Allegany Casino in Salamanca, NY. Then, last Dec. 5 at the Sovereign Center in Reading, PA in a fight televised by Telefutura/Univision, Jones shook off some early bombs and knocked out Luciano Perez in three rounds.
Jones is ranked No. 10 by the World Boxing Association (WBA), No. 12 by the International Boxing Federation (IBF), No. 13 by the World Boxing Organization (WBO), No. 26 by the World Boxing Council (WBC).
Six preliminary fights complete the show.
LOS ANGELES - Perhaps the greatest boxer to ever come out of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo's Joan Guzman has already compiled a spectacular resume that includes a 1996 Olympic berth, 29 professional wins without a defeat and world titles in two weight classes. The 33-year-old Guzman, however, is far from done and has now enlisted Golden Boy Promotions to help lead him to a third world championship.
"This is a special day for me in my career," said Guzman. "I've always admired Oscar de la Hoya in the ring as a boxer and outside of it for what he's done with his promotional company. This is the team that will take me to the top of the lightweight division again and I couldn't be happier."
"Everyone in boxing knows how good Joan Guzman is," said Oscar de la Hoya, President of Golden Boy Promotions. "He can box with the best of them and he can also knock you out with either hand. Now it's time for Joan to take things even further with super fights against the best fighters around the lightweight division have to offer and we're going to take him there. Boxing fans are going to be in for a treat when they see what Joan brings to the ring in the future."
One of the greatest amateur boxers to ever lace up a pair of gloves, Joan "Little Tyson" Guzman (29-0, 17 KO's) compiled an amazing 310-10 record while winning Gold Medals at the Pan American, Central American and Caribbean Games in addition to earning a spot on the 1996 Dominican Republic Olympic Team. He turned professional in 1997 and earned a reputation as a knockout artist thanks to an early 17-0 start with 13 KO's. In August of 2002, he won his first World Title as he knocked out unbeaten Argentinean Fabio Oliva for the vacant WBO World Junior Featherweight Title. Guzman defended the title twice (including a seventh round stoppage of former World Champion and countryman Agapito "Ciclon" Sanchez) before moving up in weight. In September of 2006, he won his second world title belt by defeating Argentinean former World Champion Jorge Rodrigo "La Hiena" Barrios by decision for the WBO World Junior Lightweight title. After two more defenses of his crown, Guzman moved up to the 135-pound weight class and in his last bout on December 20, 2008, he won the WBA Fedelatin Lightweight title by defeating Ameth Diaz over 12 rounds.
ATLANTIC CITY, NJ—Former world-title challenger Ben Tackie will replace Larry Mosley in a 10-round fight against unbeaten Mike Jones on Saturday evening, Aug. 8, at Bally’s Atlantic City.
At stake in the scheduled 10-round contest will be Jones’ world ranking and his North American Boxing Association (NABA) title.
The ill-fated Jones-Mosley fight, previously canceled from the original dates of March 6 in Philadelphia and June 6 at Bally’s, imploded for the third and last time this weekend when poison from a growth on Mosley’s face got into the fighter’s bloodstream, necessitating surgery.
“I’m out of the Jones-Mosley business,” said Hall-of-Fame promoter J Russell Peltz, of Philadelphia, PA. “Mosley hurt his back in March; Jones strained a bicep in June. Some fights are not meant to be and this was one of them.”
Tackie, 36, of Accra, Ghana, figures to provide Jones with his toughest fight. He has never been stopped in 41 fights and he has been in there with the best , including Ricky Hatton, Kostya Tszyu, Sharmba Mitchell, Juan Lazcano and Kendall Holt.
His 29-11-1 record includes 17 knockouts and wins over Edwin Santana, Hicklet Lau, Fred Pendleton, Golden Johnson, Ray Oliveira, Teddy Reid and Wilfredo Negron.
Now living in the Bronx, New York, Tackie held several minor belts but lost on points after 12 rounds to Tszyu in 2002 in Las Vegas for the unified junior welterweight title.
Jones, 26, is one of boxing’s hottest prospects. His 17-0 record includes 15 knockouts and he won the va cant NABA title Aug. 29, 2008, when he K0d Juliano Ramos, a Brazilian living in Boca Raton, FL, in six rounds at the New Alhambra in South Philadelphia.
In his first defense last March 6, Jones was set to fight Mosley, who had to cancel out five days earlier with a back injury. Instead, Jones K0d late sub Dairo Esalas, of Miami, FL, in two rounds at the Blue Horizon in North Philadelphia.
Two weeks prior to the re-scheduled fight with Mosley on June 6 at Bally’s, Jones strained the bicep on his left arm and had to cancel.
A pro since 2005, Jones has beaten Doel Carrasquillo, of Lancaster, PA; Israel “Pito” Cardona, of Hartford, CT; Gilbert Venegas, of Moline, IL.
Jones’ two hardest fights came last year against a pair of Chicago, IL, fighters.
In his only ESPN 2 appearance March 28, 2008, Jones rallied in the last two rounds to earn an eight-round decision over Germaine Sanders at the Seneca Allegany Casino in Salamanca, NY. Then, last Dec. 5 at the Sovereign Center in Reading, PA in a fight televised by Telefutura/Univision, Jones shook off some early bombs and knocked out Luciano Perez in three rounds.
Jones is ranked No. 10 by the World Boxing Association (WBA), No. 12 by the International Boxing Federation (IBF), No. 13 by the World Boxing Organization (WBO), No. 26 by the World Boxing Council (WBC).
Six preliminary fights complete the show.
Kelly Pavlik, Jack Loew Involved in Minor Pub Tussle
By Mark Vester
According to several of the Ohio papers, middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik and his trainer Jack Loew were involved in a minor bar tussle at the East Side Civics Club in Youngstown on Saturday night around 11PM. Ronald Cappitte, 45, filed a police report on Monday and claimed the fighter and trainer assaulted him.
Cappitte claims he was punched in the groin by Pavlik and then hit several times by Loew. He admits to calling Pavlik out by telling him to step outside to continue their fight and says Pavlik clocked him in the forehead.
Ohio's Tribune Chronicle spoke with Loew, who did say there was a altercation on Saturday but says Cappitte started the entire altercation by attacking Pavlik. Several men, in defense of Pavlik, jumped on Cappitte. Loew says Cappitte was likely intoxicated. He tried to help Cappitte, who continued to cause trouble and fights at the bar. Loew says there are several witnesses to back him up.
''Ron was standing there talking with all of us,'' Loew said. ''Him, Kelly, myself and my son were there talking. Cappitte said something about some flicking game they were playing, and all the sudden Cappitte lunged, grabbed Kelly's neck, and I then pulled Cappitte back. It was then that another group of people jumped in, not Kelly Pavlik or Jack Loew. I actually pulled the other five guys off him.''
By Mark Vester
According to several of the Ohio papers, middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik and his trainer Jack Loew were involved in a minor bar tussle at the East Side Civics Club in Youngstown on Saturday night around 11PM. Ronald Cappitte, 45, filed a police report on Monday and claimed the fighter and trainer assaulted him.
Cappitte claims he was punched in the groin by Pavlik and then hit several times by Loew. He admits to calling Pavlik out by telling him to step outside to continue their fight and says Pavlik clocked him in the forehead.
Ohio's Tribune Chronicle spoke with Loew, who did say there was a altercation on Saturday but says Cappitte started the entire altercation by attacking Pavlik. Several men, in defense of Pavlik, jumped on Cappitte. Loew says Cappitte was likely intoxicated. He tried to help Cappitte, who continued to cause trouble and fights at the bar. Loew says there are several witnesses to back him up.
''Ron was standing there talking with all of us,'' Loew said. ''Him, Kelly, myself and my son were there talking. Cappitte said something about some flicking game they were playing, and all the sudden Cappitte lunged, grabbed Kelly's neck, and I then pulled Cappitte back. It was then that another group of people jumped in, not Kelly Pavlik or Jack Loew. I actually pulled the other five guys off him.''
Haye Signed For Valuev Without Golden Boy's Approval
By Robert Morales
News of a contract being signed last week by David Haye to fight heavyweight champion Nikolai Valuev for Valuev's heavyweight championship was intriguing for a couple of reasons: One, it meant he had backed out of a proposed fight with another champion, Vitali Klitschko. Two, Richard Schaefer was out of town vacationing in Mexico with his wife and kids.
Schaefer is CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, which co-promotes Haye. BoxingScene.com spoke with Golden Boy matchmaker Eric Gomez on Sunday and asked him if Haye had authorization from Schaefer to sign to fight Valuev. The bout is scheduled for Nov. 7 in Germany.
"Richard was on vacation," Gomez said. "He was taking calls sparingly, but I don't know if Adam Booth spoke to Richard or not. I heard about it in the media."
Booth is Haye's manager as well as an executive in Hayemaker Promotions.
Well, BoxingScene spoke to Schaefer on Monday from the Golden Boy offices in Los Angeles. He chose his words very carefully, but one got the impression he might very well have been unaware of the signing of the contract at the time it was consummated.
"The fact is David Haye really wants to fight Nikolai Valuev," Schaefer said.
Schaefer said he reached out Monday to Chris Meyer of Sauerland Event, which co-promotes Valuev.
"And I have talked to David Haye and to Adam Booth today and we are trying to work things out," Schaefer said.
Schaefer was asked if Haye needed the permission of Golden Boy to sign a contract for any fight.
"The fact is we do have promotional rights, contractual rights," Schaefer said.
Schaefer would not comment directly on whether this fight could be canceled if Golden Boy is not satisfied with the language of the contract.
"I don't really want to go there," Schaefer said. "I just want to leave it at those comments
By Robert Morales
News of a contract being signed last week by David Haye to fight heavyweight champion Nikolai Valuev for Valuev's heavyweight championship was intriguing for a couple of reasons: One, it meant he had backed out of a proposed fight with another champion, Vitali Klitschko. Two, Richard Schaefer was out of town vacationing in Mexico with his wife and kids.
Schaefer is CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, which co-promotes Haye. BoxingScene.com spoke with Golden Boy matchmaker Eric Gomez on Sunday and asked him if Haye had authorization from Schaefer to sign to fight Valuev. The bout is scheduled for Nov. 7 in Germany.
"Richard was on vacation," Gomez said. "He was taking calls sparingly, but I don't know if Adam Booth spoke to Richard or not. I heard about it in the media."
Booth is Haye's manager as well as an executive in Hayemaker Promotions.
Well, BoxingScene spoke to Schaefer on Monday from the Golden Boy offices in Los Angeles. He chose his words very carefully, but one got the impression he might very well have been unaware of the signing of the contract at the time it was consummated.
"The fact is David Haye really wants to fight Nikolai Valuev," Schaefer said.
Schaefer said he reached out Monday to Chris Meyer of Sauerland Event, which co-promotes Valuev.
"And I have talked to David Haye and to Adam Booth today and we are trying to work things out," Schaefer said.
Schaefer was asked if Haye needed the permission of Golden Boy to sign a contract for any fight.
"The fact is we do have promotional rights, contractual rights," Schaefer said.
Schaefer would not comment directly on whether this fight could be canceled if Golden Boy is not satisfied with the language of the contract.
"I don't really want to go there," Schaefer said. "I just want to leave it at those comments
Vic Darchinyan Vacates IBF Super Flyweight Title
By Rick Reeno
BoxingScene.com was informed that Vic Darchinyan officially vacated the IBF super flyweight title. Darchinyan notified the IBF by letter on Tuesday. The IBF recently ordered Darchinyan to face mandatory challenger Simphiwe Nongqayi of South Africa. Darchinyan still has the WBA and WBC titles at the weight.
There has been talk that Jorge Arce could fall in line to fight Nongqayi for the title
By Rick Reeno
BoxingScene.com was informed that Vic Darchinyan officially vacated the IBF super flyweight title. Darchinyan notified the IBF by letter on Tuesday. The IBF recently ordered Darchinyan to face mandatory challenger Simphiwe Nongqayi of South Africa. Darchinyan still has the WBA and WBC titles at the weight.
There has been talk that Jorge Arce could fall in line to fight Nongqayi for the title
Kelly Pavlik-Paul Williams Still A Possibility, Both Sides Reportedly Haggling Over M
by James Slater - It's a fight that makes sense on a number of levels. Middleweight king Kelly Pavlik and Paul Williams, a man who has won titles at both welterweight and light-middleweight, are reportedly still in talks for a meeting to take place this year. Agreeing money terms has been the biggest obstacle to overcome, but hopefully this massively intriguing fight will actually find a way to go ahead.
Not only are Pavlik and Williams two fighters who have struggled and are struggling to find another more exciting foe to square up with, but the clash of styles of the two would likely make the fight an extremely fan-friendly affair. So, it's the biggest available super-fight for both men, it's a fight that both warriors have expressed a serious interest in and Pavlik-Williams is a fight the fans would definitely pay to see.. Let's hope money does not put paid to this potential classic!
A year or two ago, when tall southpaw Williams was doing his stuff down at 147-pounds, people wondered if "The Punisher" was crazy when he told us he'd like a fight with the world's best middleweight. But since then two things have happened: Williams has proven he can fight effectively up at 160, and Pavlik has been beaten by Bernard Hopkins. We still don't know affected "The Ghost" was long term as a result of his maiden loss, and truth be told the 27-year-old is in need of a big fight so he himself can get an answer to this question. Williams appears to be the perfect opponent.
With no current middleweight rivals out there as capable of sufficiently motivating Pavlik and satisfying the fans (now that Arthur Abraham has moved up) Williams is the best challenger for Pavlik, and Pavlik is the best fight out there for the avoided lefty. Let's face it, who else will the two in-need-of-a-big-fight stars face if not each other?
Sure, Williams could instead face WBO light-middleweight champ Sergiy Dzindziruk (apparently Williams' plan-B if the Pavlik fight falls through) and this fight is also an intriguing match-up. But it's not as attractive as Williams-Pavlik. And who else will Pavlik wind up meeting if he loses out on Williams? Common sense says this fight has to happen.
IF - and it seems there is a good chance it is a big if - the two exciting talents do agree to a money split and get it on, who would win? Maybe it's too soon to discuss who would prevail in a fight that is still far from being made, but this one so captures the imagination it's tough not to want to analyse it.
Pavlik, the natural middleweight and the bigger puncher, initially looks the favourite. How would the 28-year-old's chin hold up to one of the middleweight king's bombs? But then again, Williams is the better boxer with the faster hands. Would Pavlik suffer flashbacks to his October 2008 loss to Hopkins if Williams got into a groove and began out-boxing him? These are just two questions fight fans have been asking ever since this fight was first talked about as a serious possibility.
To my mind, Williams has more options at present than does Pavlik, but neither guy is exactly spoilt with choice opponents. The obvious fight to make is one with each other. Let's keep our fingers crossed that "The Punisher" and "The Ghost" are able to give their fans the fight that seems so much a natural.
by James Slater - It's a fight that makes sense on a number of levels. Middleweight king Kelly Pavlik and Paul Williams, a man who has won titles at both welterweight and light-middleweight, are reportedly still in talks for a meeting to take place this year. Agreeing money terms has been the biggest obstacle to overcome, but hopefully this massively intriguing fight will actually find a way to go ahead.
Not only are Pavlik and Williams two fighters who have struggled and are struggling to find another more exciting foe to square up with, but the clash of styles of the two would likely make the fight an extremely fan-friendly affair. So, it's the biggest available super-fight for both men, it's a fight that both warriors have expressed a serious interest in and Pavlik-Williams is a fight the fans would definitely pay to see.. Let's hope money does not put paid to this potential classic!
A year or two ago, when tall southpaw Williams was doing his stuff down at 147-pounds, people wondered if "The Punisher" was crazy when he told us he'd like a fight with the world's best middleweight. But since then two things have happened: Williams has proven he can fight effectively up at 160, and Pavlik has been beaten by Bernard Hopkins. We still don't know affected "The Ghost" was long term as a result of his maiden loss, and truth be told the 27-year-old is in need of a big fight so he himself can get an answer to this question. Williams appears to be the perfect opponent.
With no current middleweight rivals out there as capable of sufficiently motivating Pavlik and satisfying the fans (now that Arthur Abraham has moved up) Williams is the best challenger for Pavlik, and Pavlik is the best fight out there for the avoided lefty. Let's face it, who else will the two in-need-of-a-big-fight stars face if not each other?
Sure, Williams could instead face WBO light-middleweight champ Sergiy Dzindziruk (apparently Williams' plan-B if the Pavlik fight falls through) and this fight is also an intriguing match-up. But it's not as attractive as Williams-Pavlik. And who else will Pavlik wind up meeting if he loses out on Williams? Common sense says this fight has to happen.
IF - and it seems there is a good chance it is a big if - the two exciting talents do agree to a money split and get it on, who would win? Maybe it's too soon to discuss who would prevail in a fight that is still far from being made, but this one so captures the imagination it's tough not to want to analyse it.
Pavlik, the natural middleweight and the bigger puncher, initially looks the favourite. How would the 28-year-old's chin hold up to one of the middleweight king's bombs? But then again, Williams is the better boxer with the faster hands. Would Pavlik suffer flashbacks to his October 2008 loss to Hopkins if Williams got into a groove and began out-boxing him? These are just two questions fight fans have been asking ever since this fight was first talked about as a serious possibility.
To my mind, Williams has more options at present than does Pavlik, but neither guy is exactly spoilt with choice opponents. The obvious fight to make is one with each other. Let's keep our fingers crossed that "The Punisher" and "The Ghost" are able to give their fans the fight that seems so much a natural.
Oh yeah!!
Klitschko-Arreola For 9/26, Pavlik-Williams For 10/3
BoxingScene.com was informed that a heavyweight bout [if a deal is reached] between WBC champion Vitali Klitschko and unbeaten Chris Arreola would happen on September 26 on HBO. I've been told the 9/26 date has nothing to do with the ongoing talks to finalize a deal for a middleweight bout between WBC/WBO champion Kelly Pavlik and Paul Williams. The two sides, for Klitschko and Arreola, are currently in talks to make the fight happen
Klitschko-Arreola For 9/26, Pavlik-Williams For 10/3
BoxingScene.com was informed that a heavyweight bout [if a deal is reached] between WBC champion Vitali Klitschko and unbeaten Chris Arreola would happen on September 26 on HBO. I've been told the 9/26 date has nothing to do with the ongoing talks to finalize a deal for a middleweight bout between WBC/WBO champion Kelly Pavlik and Paul Williams. The two sides, for Klitschko and Arreola, are currently in talks to make the fight happen
Nikolai Valuev Lashes Out at Both Klitschko Brothers
By Mark Vester
WBA heavyweight champion Nikolai Valuev says the Klitschko brothers, Wladimir and Vitali, are not willing to take any risks in the ring. He says both brothers have avoided him and he doesn't see a fight taking place any time soon. Valuev faces David Haye on November 7 in Germany. Haye was scheduled to fight Vitali Klitschko on September 12 but withdrew before the contract was signed and made a backdoor deal for a shot at Valuev.
“I have a feeling that my bout with one of the Klitschko brothers will take place only if I lose one of my legs or something. In a word, during telephone conversations they are ready to fight, but it’s different in practice,” Valuev said to Russian outlet Smena.
“If my career to some extent depends on my promoters, Wilfried Sauerland and Don King, the Klitschkos have a thousand times repeated that they themselves are the masters of their fate. They own the K2 promotion company, which organizes all their fights. The brothers are good businessmen; they carefully plan their each and every move, and they don’t want to take unjustified risks."
valuev doesn't see one Klitschko being tougher than the other. He did admit that he roots for the Klitschkos when they step in the ring. He doesn't hold a grudge but he doesn't view them as fighters who are willing to take on all comers.
“It is clear that commercial interests prevail when the Klitschkos choose their opponents,” Valuev said. “Who between them is stronger? Each has his pluses and minuses, so both boxers Wladimir and Vitali are approximately equal. Don’t get me wrong. I have a normal attitude towards Vitali and Wladimir, furthermore – in all their previous fights I wanted victory for the Brothers and not for their competitors
By Mark Vester
WBA heavyweight champion Nikolai Valuev says the Klitschko brothers, Wladimir and Vitali, are not willing to take any risks in the ring. He says both brothers have avoided him and he doesn't see a fight taking place any time soon. Valuev faces David Haye on November 7 in Germany. Haye was scheduled to fight Vitali Klitschko on September 12 but withdrew before the contract was signed and made a backdoor deal for a shot at Valuev.
“I have a feeling that my bout with one of the Klitschko brothers will take place only if I lose one of my legs or something. In a word, during telephone conversations they are ready to fight, but it’s different in practice,” Valuev said to Russian outlet Smena.
“If my career to some extent depends on my promoters, Wilfried Sauerland and Don King, the Klitschkos have a thousand times repeated that they themselves are the masters of their fate. They own the K2 promotion company, which organizes all their fights. The brothers are good businessmen; they carefully plan their each and every move, and they don’t want to take unjustified risks."
valuev doesn't see one Klitschko being tougher than the other. He did admit that he roots for the Klitschkos when they step in the ring. He doesn't hold a grudge but he doesn't view them as fighters who are willing to take on all comers.
“It is clear that commercial interests prevail when the Klitschkos choose their opponents,” Valuev said. “Who between them is stronger? Each has his pluses and minuses, so both boxers Wladimir and Vitali are approximately equal. Don’t get me wrong. I have a normal attitude towards Vitali and Wladimir, furthermore – in all their previous fights I wanted victory for the Brothers and not for their competitors
BJ Flores-Ordiales, Kimbrough-Litzau on Jones Jr vs Lacy undercard
feel very good about fighting on this show because it’ll be my first time on pay per view,” he said from training camp. “I’m eager, especially where I’ll be fighting on the same card at Roy Jones, Jr. The fight itself will be exciting and is a big step for me. I look forward to getting in the ring with an elite athlete and putting on a great exhibition.
“I’ve watched a lot of Roy’s fights and what I like most about him is what he brings to the table. He’s a great champion who is also a promoter. There’s an edge with him because he’s still a fighter, unlike most other promoters. I signed with him because I liked him and his team the most. They are all very ethical individuals who are united in their efforts. My word is my bond, let the cards fall where they may, and they’re like that, too. I’m enjoying training with Roy at camp. I know what to expect from him -- when it’s time for business or to play. You can see it in his eyes. He jokes when it’s play time, but he’s all business in the gym.”
Litzau (24-2, 20 KOs), fighting out of St. Paul (MN), already had a taste of competing at the next level, losing an IBF featherweight title fight 1 ½ years ago to Robert Guerrero. The 26-year-old Litzau is a flashy fighter who also had an impressive amateur career, posting a reported 125-10 career, including top honors in the National Silver Gloves Championship, and later earning a spot on the 2001 U.S. National Boxing Team.
“Fighting him is going to be a little awkward for me because he’s so tall (5’ 10”),” the 5’ 5” Kimbrough noted. “We both started boxing when we were young and are good athletes and competitors. He is the toughest opponent of my career. We’re at the level where the fight’s going to come down to who is more mentally and physically capable of getting to the next level. I’ve developed my skills where I can fight well against anything brought to the table. I guarantee that I’ll have the answers for anything he brings into the ring.
“I think it’ll come down to the stronger, more focused fighter that night. I expect a tough fight and I’m up to the challenge. I’m looking forward not only to the fight, but winning. I think this will be the biggest win on my resume. I don’t look too far ahead, career-wise; I leave that up to Roy and Square Ring, whether my next fight will be for any type of title or at the next level of competition. My job is to compete to the best of my ability.”
Australian import Danny “Green Machine” Green (26-3, 23 KOs) takes on South American champion Julio Cesar “La Furia” Dominguez (20-4-1, 14 KOs) in the 12-round co-feature for the vacant IBO cruiserweight championship.
feel very good about fighting on this show because it’ll be my first time on pay per view,” he said from training camp. “I’m eager, especially where I’ll be fighting on the same card at Roy Jones, Jr. The fight itself will be exciting and is a big step for me. I look forward to getting in the ring with an elite athlete and putting on a great exhibition.
“I’ve watched a lot of Roy’s fights and what I like most about him is what he brings to the table. He’s a great champion who is also a promoter. There’s an edge with him because he’s still a fighter, unlike most other promoters. I signed with him because I liked him and his team the most. They are all very ethical individuals who are united in their efforts. My word is my bond, let the cards fall where they may, and they’re like that, too. I’m enjoying training with Roy at camp. I know what to expect from him -- when it’s time for business or to play. You can see it in his eyes. He jokes when it’s play time, but he’s all business in the gym.”
Litzau (24-2, 20 KOs), fighting out of St. Paul (MN), already had a taste of competing at the next level, losing an IBF featherweight title fight 1 ½ years ago to Robert Guerrero. The 26-year-old Litzau is a flashy fighter who also had an impressive amateur career, posting a reported 125-10 career, including top honors in the National Silver Gloves Championship, and later earning a spot on the 2001 U.S. National Boxing Team.
“Fighting him is going to be a little awkward for me because he’s so tall (5’ 10”),” the 5’ 5” Kimbrough noted. “We both started boxing when we were young and are good athletes and competitors. He is the toughest opponent of my career. We’re at the level where the fight’s going to come down to who is more mentally and physically capable of getting to the next level. I’ve developed my skills where I can fight well against anything brought to the table. I guarantee that I’ll have the answers for anything he brings into the ring.
“I think it’ll come down to the stronger, more focused fighter that night. I expect a tough fight and I’m up to the challenge. I’m looking forward not only to the fight, but winning. I think this will be the biggest win on my resume. I don’t look too far ahead, career-wise; I leave that up to Roy and Square Ring, whether my next fight will be for any type of title or at the next level of competition. My job is to compete to the best of my ability.”
Australian import Danny “Green Machine” Green (26-3, 23 KOs) takes on South American champion Julio Cesar “La Furia” Dominguez (20-4-1, 14 KOs) in the 12-round co-feature for the vacant IBO cruiserweight championship.
Margarito Plans To Wait, Refuses Mexico Return
By Mark Vester
Former three-time welterweight champion Antonio Margarito will not make a planned September return in Mexico. He does want to fight in September but only if the fight takes place in the United States. The only way that can happen is if the California State Athletic Commission returns his boxing license. The Mexican fighter had his license revoked back in February when the CSAC found him liable for a plaster-like substance that was found in his handwraps prior to the bout with Shane Mosley on January 24.
Margarito's legal team is fighting hard to get him back in the ring. If they lose, Margarito will have to wait until February 2010 to re-apply for a license and the CSAC can still make a decision to turn down his request. He does understand that by taking a fight in Mexico, he can anger the CSAC and hurt his chances to fight again on American soil.
"I've been training for a long time and waiting to see if they tell me that I can return in September. But if all depends if I get back my license, and if so, the fight will not be in Tijuana but in the United States," Margarito told The Record.
"What we know is [the lawyers] are trying to get me my license back. It has already been suspended for six months and I know that I am innocent, so I do not want to fight in Mexico because my situation could worsen further in the U.S. and I prefer to wait a little [longer] to prevent any further punishment
By Mark Vester
Former three-time welterweight champion Antonio Margarito will not make a planned September return in Mexico. He does want to fight in September but only if the fight takes place in the United States. The only way that can happen is if the California State Athletic Commission returns his boxing license. The Mexican fighter had his license revoked back in February when the CSAC found him liable for a plaster-like substance that was found in his handwraps prior to the bout with Shane Mosley on January 24.
Margarito's legal team is fighting hard to get him back in the ring. If they lose, Margarito will have to wait until February 2010 to re-apply for a license and the CSAC can still make a decision to turn down his request. He does understand that by taking a fight in Mexico, he can anger the CSAC and hurt his chances to fight again on American soil.
"I've been training for a long time and waiting to see if they tell me that I can return in September. But if all depends if I get back my license, and if so, the fight will not be in Tijuana but in the United States," Margarito told The Record.
"What we know is [the lawyers] are trying to get me my license back. It has already been suspended for six months and I know that I am innocent, so I do not want to fight in Mexico because my situation could worsen further in the U.S. and I prefer to wait a little [longer] to prevent any further punishment
Will Arthur Abraham Prove To Be King On Oct. 17th, Or Will Jermain Taylor's Bad Inten
by James Slater - On October 17th, the eagerly anticipated Super-Six tournament that has been thought up by Showtime TV network gets underway in England and Germany. In the UK, WBC super-middleweight champ Carl Froch faces unbeaten contender and former Olympian Andre Dirrell, and in Germany former IBF middleweight ruler Arthur Abraham faces former world middleweight boss Jermain Taylor.
Two great fights, then, kick-start what should be a great tournament. And while both initiating bouts on October 17th are good ones, the Abraham-Taylor fight looks the more intriguing contest. A tough fight to pick a winner from, Taylor Vs. Abraham has a number of fascination questions attached to it..
29-year-old Abraham, 30-0(24) will, of course, be having his first-ever fight up in the 168-pound division (although the Armenian-born German citizen has boxed as high as 166-pounds in the past, most recently against Edison Miranda in June of last year). And 30-year-old Taylor, 28-3-1(17) will be having his first fight since being sensationally KO'd in the fading seconds of the last round of his fight with Froch earlier this year. Will Abraham prove to be as effective up at super-middleweight as he was down at 160? And will "Bad Intentions" be the same man he was before he suffered what was a punishing loss at the hands of Froch?
It's likely, almost definite, that "King" Arthur will adapt well to his new weight class. First of all, he has already shown he can carry his power and speed up with him to 166 - so what's another two pounds going to change? Also, Abraham was known for struggling to make 160 in his last couple of fights. Up at 168, Abraham could even be a better fighter than he was as a middleweight. Now there's a scary thought for his future opponents, Taylor included.
Abraham, a clever boxer who possesses cunning, power that has at times looked frightening, excellent stamina and a heart as big as can be, was impossible to beat as a middleweight. If he does prove to be even better up a division what chance will anyone have with him?
Taylor may be past his prime, but is still a top class operator of the highest level. He will almost certainly be in deep come October 17th, though. Still, we should not underestimate the man who twice beat the great Bernard Hopkins. Remember, Taylor has only lost to Kelly Pavlik and Froch, two men who perhaps would have (or perhaps will in Froch's case) given Abraham hell. It's true, we don't know how much the Arkansas man has left after suffering brutal stoppages at the hands of "The Ghost" and then "The Cobra," but if he's not a damaged fighter, Taylor, with his fine boxing skills and his own big heart, could give Abraham real problems.
Taylor has (or had) the advantage in hand speed over Abraham, and he is more used to fighting at super-middleweight. Also, knowing the Super-Six tourney is his last chance to get back on top, Taylor will be desperate and that could make him very dangerous. And the 30-year-old will want to make sure he wins his opening fight in Super-Six.
Will Taylor fade in the later rounds on October 17th? Will Abraham, having seen what Froch did to Taylor, try too hard to make a statement by getting the job done quicker than his other tournament rival? Will Taylor's classy boxing skills allow him to pull away to an early lead that demoralises Abraham? Will Abraham all but end Taylor's career with an emphatic victory?
Super-Six is going to be a great event for boxing, and its first two fights look set to get things going in fine style!
by James Slater - On October 17th, the eagerly anticipated Super-Six tournament that has been thought up by Showtime TV network gets underway in England and Germany. In the UK, WBC super-middleweight champ Carl Froch faces unbeaten contender and former Olympian Andre Dirrell, and in Germany former IBF middleweight ruler Arthur Abraham faces former world middleweight boss Jermain Taylor.
Two great fights, then, kick-start what should be a great tournament. And while both initiating bouts on October 17th are good ones, the Abraham-Taylor fight looks the more intriguing contest. A tough fight to pick a winner from, Taylor Vs. Abraham has a number of fascination questions attached to it..
29-year-old Abraham, 30-0(24) will, of course, be having his first-ever fight up in the 168-pound division (although the Armenian-born German citizen has boxed as high as 166-pounds in the past, most recently against Edison Miranda in June of last year). And 30-year-old Taylor, 28-3-1(17) will be having his first fight since being sensationally KO'd in the fading seconds of the last round of his fight with Froch earlier this year. Will Abraham prove to be as effective up at super-middleweight as he was down at 160? And will "Bad Intentions" be the same man he was before he suffered what was a punishing loss at the hands of Froch?
It's likely, almost definite, that "King" Arthur will adapt well to his new weight class. First of all, he has already shown he can carry his power and speed up with him to 166 - so what's another two pounds going to change? Also, Abraham was known for struggling to make 160 in his last couple of fights. Up at 168, Abraham could even be a better fighter than he was as a middleweight. Now there's a scary thought for his future opponents, Taylor included.
Abraham, a clever boxer who possesses cunning, power that has at times looked frightening, excellent stamina and a heart as big as can be, was impossible to beat as a middleweight. If he does prove to be even better up a division what chance will anyone have with him?
Taylor may be past his prime, but is still a top class operator of the highest level. He will almost certainly be in deep come October 17th, though. Still, we should not underestimate the man who twice beat the great Bernard Hopkins. Remember, Taylor has only lost to Kelly Pavlik and Froch, two men who perhaps would have (or perhaps will in Froch's case) given Abraham hell. It's true, we don't know how much the Arkansas man has left after suffering brutal stoppages at the hands of "The Ghost" and then "The Cobra," but if he's not a damaged fighter, Taylor, with his fine boxing skills and his own big heart, could give Abraham real problems.
Taylor has (or had) the advantage in hand speed over Abraham, and he is more used to fighting at super-middleweight. Also, knowing the Super-Six tourney is his last chance to get back on top, Taylor will be desperate and that could make him very dangerous. And the 30-year-old will want to make sure he wins his opening fight in Super-Six.
Will Taylor fade in the later rounds on October 17th? Will Abraham, having seen what Froch did to Taylor, try too hard to make a statement by getting the job done quicker than his other tournament rival? Will Taylor's classy boxing skills allow him to pull away to an early lead that demoralises Abraham? Will Abraham all but end Taylor's career with an emphatic victory?
Super-Six is going to be a great event for boxing, and its first two fights look set to get things going in fine style!
Vitali Klitschko-Chris Arreola A Done Deal For September 26th
by James Slater - According to a number of reliable sources, WBC heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko has reached a deal to defend his belt against unbeaten contender Chris Arreola at The Staples Centre in Los Angeles on September 26th. According to Ring on line (Ring on line in turn having been advised by a "reliable source") Arreola said no to a September 12th fight with the WBC champ, but said yes to the September 26th date.
The bout has yet to be announced officially, but things are looking good for this fight happening. As fans know, "Dr Iron Fist" was all set to attempt to close the big mouth of the colourful and exciting David Haye on September 12th in Germany; only for "The Hayemaker" to anger Klitschko by taking a fight with WBA champ Nikolai Valuev instead. Enter "The Nightmare," a fighter who has been awaiting his shot at a world title for some months.. At one point it looked as though Arreola would continue to play the waiting game and box former WBC champ Oleg Maskaev next, but with Haye out the 28-year-old seems set to get his chance quicker than he at first thought.
Arguably a better challenger than Haye, and one with a better chance of winning, 28-year-old Arreola of Riverside, California will be looking to make boxing history by beating the formidable 38-year-old Ukrainian.
If Arreola, 27-0(24) manages to upset and dethrone Klitschko, he will become the first boxer with Mexican roots to have won a world heavyweight title. This factor is motivating Arreola, but winning the title and fulfilling a dream is pretty much all the motivation the tough slugger needs. Can he beat Klitschko, a man who has lost just twice in almost 40 pro fights and who took everything huge puncher and all-time great Lennox Lewis threw at him back in 2003? It sure won't be easy.
But Arreola knows it won't be easy, and he and his trainer Henry Ramirez have been studying both Klitschko brothers for some time in preparation for this big chance. And Eddie Chambers and possibly Alexander Povetkin aside, who has a better chance at knocking off a Klitschko than Arreola?
One thing is sure, the September 26th fight will not be dull. Both men can punch, both men are aggressive and if he can get inside (Arreola's only chance of victory, surely) and test Vitali's body and now 38-year-old chin, the action could be of the two-way variety. Win or lose, Arreola WILL come to fight, of that you can be certain.
Let's hope official confirmation of this exciting-looking match-up is forthcoming.
by James Slater - According to a number of reliable sources, WBC heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko has reached a deal to defend his belt against unbeaten contender Chris Arreola at The Staples Centre in Los Angeles on September 26th. According to Ring on line (Ring on line in turn having been advised by a "reliable source") Arreola said no to a September 12th fight with the WBC champ, but said yes to the September 26th date.
The bout has yet to be announced officially, but things are looking good for this fight happening. As fans know, "Dr Iron Fist" was all set to attempt to close the big mouth of the colourful and exciting David Haye on September 12th in Germany; only for "The Hayemaker" to anger Klitschko by taking a fight with WBA champ Nikolai Valuev instead. Enter "The Nightmare," a fighter who has been awaiting his shot at a world title for some months.. At one point it looked as though Arreola would continue to play the waiting game and box former WBC champ Oleg Maskaev next, but with Haye out the 28-year-old seems set to get his chance quicker than he at first thought.
Arguably a better challenger than Haye, and one with a better chance of winning, 28-year-old Arreola of Riverside, California will be looking to make boxing history by beating the formidable 38-year-old Ukrainian.
If Arreola, 27-0(24) manages to upset and dethrone Klitschko, he will become the first boxer with Mexican roots to have won a world heavyweight title. This factor is motivating Arreola, but winning the title and fulfilling a dream is pretty much all the motivation the tough slugger needs. Can he beat Klitschko, a man who has lost just twice in almost 40 pro fights and who took everything huge puncher and all-time great Lennox Lewis threw at him back in 2003? It sure won't be easy.
But Arreola knows it won't be easy, and he and his trainer Henry Ramirez have been studying both Klitschko brothers for some time in preparation for this big chance. And Eddie Chambers and possibly Alexander Povetkin aside, who has a better chance at knocking off a Klitschko than Arreola?
One thing is sure, the September 26th fight will not be dull. Both men can punch, both men are aggressive and if he can get inside (Arreola's only chance of victory, surely) and test Vitali's body and now 38-year-old chin, the action could be of the two-way variety. Win or lose, Arreola WILL come to fight, of that you can be certain.
Let's hope official confirmation of this exciting-looking match-up is forthcoming.
Roach: "Pacquiao Doesn't Need Cotto Without The Belt"
By Mark Vester
The tug of war is still going for the WBO welterweight title. Miguel Cotto refuses to make it a title fight when he steps in the ring against Manny Pacquiao on November 14 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Pacquiao wants the title to be on the line. The fight is scheduled to take place at a catch-weight of 145-pounds and Cotto refuses to defend the title unless Pacquiao agrees to face him at the full welterweight limit of 147. He says Pacquiao can have the title or the catch-weight but he can't have both.
Pacquiao's lawyer Franklin Gacal tried to shift the blame on Top Rank's Bob Arum for announcing the fight before Manny and his team had a chance to review the official contract. He says Cotto is making his stand because the fight is already announced.
"I don't know why Bob made the announcement when in fact we haven't seen the (official) contract," said Gacal to the Manila Bulletin.
Pacquiao's trainer Freddie Roach told the paper that Manny doesn't need a fight with Cotto if the title is not on the line. He says the WBO should force Cotto to defend the title. The sanctioning body is trying but Cotto has already said that he plans to vacate the title if the WBO tries to force his hand.
"The WBO should make it a title fight. We don’t need the fight if the title is not on the line," Roach said. "I want Manny to do this for a reason. I want Manny to win seven world titles. Titles are overrated but I would like to see Manny do this."
By Mark Vester
The tug of war is still going for the WBO welterweight title. Miguel Cotto refuses to make it a title fight when he steps in the ring against Manny Pacquiao on November 14 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Pacquiao wants the title to be on the line. The fight is scheduled to take place at a catch-weight of 145-pounds and Cotto refuses to defend the title unless Pacquiao agrees to face him at the full welterweight limit of 147. He says Pacquiao can have the title or the catch-weight but he can't have both.
Pacquiao's lawyer Franklin Gacal tried to shift the blame on Top Rank's Bob Arum for announcing the fight before Manny and his team had a chance to review the official contract. He says Cotto is making his stand because the fight is already announced.
"I don't know why Bob made the announcement when in fact we haven't seen the (official) contract," said Gacal to the Manila Bulletin.
Pacquiao's trainer Freddie Roach told the paper that Manny doesn't need a fight with Cotto if the title is not on the line. He says the WBO should force Cotto to defend the title. The sanctioning body is trying but Cotto has already said that he plans to vacate the title if the WBO tries to force his hand.
"The WBO should make it a title fight. We don’t need the fight if the title is not on the line," Roach said. "I want Manny to do this for a reason. I want Manny to win seven world titles. Titles are overrated but I would like to see Manny do this."