Boxing News Thread
- Thread starter heyzel
- Start date
he appears in the corner in all types of fights. I've seen roach at a card in tacoma which wasn't on tv and he was in the corner with straight bums guys with like 10-12 records. that's all he does is boxing he'll train anyone.
anyways chavez hasn't lost a fight how many wins in a row is that? 6 or 7? pac obviously should have won against bradley. so we have amit khan who lost a disputed decision to a guy who was on peds and got ko'd by Garcia. then there who is lateef kayode who will never be that good in the first place but he got a draw against tarver who tested dirty for steroids. who else he bring up? pacs sparring partner? lol again he's not a good fighter and never will be.
anyways chavez hasn't lost a fight how many wins in a row is that? 6 or 7? pac obviously should have won against bradley. so we have amit khan who lost a disputed decision to a guy who was on peds and got ko'd by Garcia. then there who is lateef kayode who will never be that good in the first place but he got a draw against tarver who tested dirty for steroids. who else he bring up? pacs sparring partner? lol again he's not a good fighter and never will be.
Lou DiBella: “Best fight in the middleweight division...period!”
After several years of back and forth bickering and hollering, the stage is finally set. On September 15, 2012, at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, the world will find out who the best middleweight in the world is. WBC middleweight champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez will lock horns in the main event on Mexican Independence Day. Not only are boxing fans in for a barnburner but there is the possibility that this could be 2012’s “Fight of the Year.” But let's not get ahead of ourselves; instead let's focus on what transpired in order to understand how we got to this point and time.
“Making deals in boxing isn't nor should be rocket science,” said Lou DiBella, president of DiBella Entertainment and promoter of Martinez.
Martinez, of Quilmes, Argentina, now 49-2-2, (28) captured the linear championship on April 17, 2010 in Atlantic City, NJ. after decisively outpointing middleweight king Kelly Pavlik. Martinez went on to defend the WBC title once against Paul Willams, only to be stripped of the title four months later. Martinez was forced to relinquish the green strap due to failing to make his mandatory defense against Sebastian Zbik. HBO passed on the opportunity to televise the fight so in an attempt to stay busy, Martinez fought Serhiy Dzinziruk months later on the same network. With Zbik having a date to fight without an opponent, in came in Chavez and the two duked it out for the vacant WBC title in June of last year. So as we press the fast forward button, hopefully you are all caught up on the facts surrounding this terrific match-up, which prompted Martinez's trainer, Pablo Sarmiento to utter, “Junior’s big mouth has gotten him into trouble and he will be forced to give Martinez back his title.”
Yesterday afternoon, Chavez and Martinez reached the third and final leg of their press conference tour. The Edison Hotel in “Gotham City” played host as the two pugilists traded verbal jabs at each other. It was evident that the two fighters simply had enough of each other.
“You are going to need a new I.D. after I get done with you,” said Martinez, now 37 years of age. “I am going to give you such a whupping that no one will be able to recognize you.”
Chavez, looking a little soft around the midsection, had no other choice but to smile. What else could he do? He was on the opposite side of dais from where Martinez was posted but it was obvious he was bothered by the comments. Chavez’s body language indicated it.
“Intriguing” would be an appropriate adjective accurately describing this fight, considering that just a couple of years ago, most of the pundits would have described it as a one-sided mismatch in favor of Martinez. However, as time went on, Chavez, a fighter with zero amateur background, has come into his own. Under the tutelage of Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach, Chavez has proven the critics wrong, evolving into more than just a name. Speaking of names, Chavez Sr. was in attendance celebrating his 50th birthday. But besides blowing out candles and eating cake, Chavez Sr. came to the aid of his son. Besides yelling, “Bullsh*t!” at Martinez's disses, Senior assessed Junior's progress.
“Junior has been growing real fast,” the elder Chavez told Maxboxing. “At first, Junior was getting a lot of negative press but with time, he got the seasoning he needed and has grown professionally. Junior is where he needs to be and where he is supposed to be at this stage in his career. Thanks to his discipline and talent, Junior is focused on his craft.”
As fight night slowly but surely approaches, we would be remiss to not play fight analyst and break down this fight. There are a couple of interesting components surrounding this great match-up. First and foremost, Chavez's size. Physically, Chavez is the bigger man. Therefore, it isn't out of the realm of possibility that on fight night, he could weigh anywhere near 180 pounds if not more. The second factor is Martinez's age. At 37, Martinez is 11 years older than Chavez. Sure, we have seen much older fighters accomplish more but here’s the kicker: guys like Bernard Hopkins, Glen Johnson and Antonio Tarver do not rely on their “second wind” the way Martinez does. You have to figure that “Father Time” is always lurking. Fighters getting old overnight isn't a new phenomenon.
You should expect the native of Culiacan, Mexico to cut off the ring and impose his size against the older and smaller Martinez (Martinez will probably weigh 165 pounds on fight night). Chavez's game plan will probably involve forcing Martinez to expend a lot more energy than he is accustomed to in hopes that Martinez will be flat in the later rounds.
When questioned about the possibilities due to the cards that are dealt, Martinez vehemently disagreed.
“It's obvious that I am at a disadvantage when it comes to size,” said the southpaw Martinez, who opened up as an 8-5 favorite, continuing, “Just because that's the case, it doesn't necessarily mean that I will use up more energy. What it’s going to come down to is creating a better game plan than him, coming up with a better strategy than normal. I will attack the body but at the end of the day, my speed, toughness and hunger is what's going to be the difference in which my hand will be raised in victory.”
There may have been a lot of trash talking between the two, as well as their camps, but when sitting with Chavez, it was plain to see that he has a lot of respect for his counterpart's fight game. Of course, this was regardless of the fact he may have publicly referred to his opponent as a “ballerina,” when asked about Martinez.
“He isn't your typical 37-year-old fighter,” replied Chavez, now 46-0-1, (32). “He is far from being an old. I am aware of the difficult task that lies ahead of me but I will be prepared physically and mentally. I am at a great place in my career. I have grown professionally. I can box and change it up if I have to. Plus, this is the first time in my career that I am an underdog. It's a great feeling; it’s really serving as a huge motivator for me.”
When the smoke clears and the dust settles, this contest will be won by the fighter who can make the proper technical adjustments necessary. If you're the type of fan who bases an opinion on past history, then this intangible clearly favors Martinez.
“Martinez stinks!” shouted Chavez Sr. “Martinez runs and drops his hands. Martinez also talks a lot of sh*t. He will eat it on September 15.”
The party has started. Let the fun begin.
Press Conference Tidbits…
- There will be a “24/7” series courtesy of HBO following both fighters leading up to the actual fight.
- A new episode of “Face Off with Max Kellerman” featuring both fighters was filmed yesterday in New York City.
- Martinez's advisor, Sampson Lewkowicz, announced he is expecting his first grandchild.
- Martinez is speaking English now and has grasped the language quickly.
- Martinez is doing a lot of philanthropic and charity work for organizations denouncing bullying and domestic violence. Monique McClain, once a victim of bullying, attended the press conference and has forged a friendship with Martinez like no other, becoming an amateur boxer herself.
- Chavez's manager, Fernando Beltran, called Martinez a “f**king clown.” This prompted Lewkowicz to get up out of his seat, resulting in a mini confrontation.
- Cerveza Tecate is offering a $25 rebate for the pay-per-view if you purchase a 10-pack of beer.
- Last but not least, author and writer Thomas Hauser was in attendance. Maxboxing caught up with him to get his take on the Tim Bradley-Manny Pacquiao debacle (in which he was present) as well as his thoughts on upcoming fights.
“The night of the fight, I scored the fight 6-5-1 in favor of Bradley. Now after reviewing the tape twice, I scored the fight 7-5 Pacquiao. Unlike many people in boxing, I admit when I am wrong. The reaction of the boxing community has been unfair to Tim. What's ironic of it all is that it’s one of those rare instances where the decision went against the house fighter.”
As for Andre Ward vs. Chad Dawson?
“I am not going to attend the fight. However, it is a very intriguing fight. I think the deck has been stacked in Ward's favor considering that he is fighting in Oakland and that Chad is being forced to go down to 168
After several years of back and forth bickering and hollering, the stage is finally set. On September 15, 2012, at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, the world will find out who the best middleweight in the world is. WBC middleweight champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez will lock horns in the main event on Mexican Independence Day. Not only are boxing fans in for a barnburner but there is the possibility that this could be 2012’s “Fight of the Year.” But let's not get ahead of ourselves; instead let's focus on what transpired in order to understand how we got to this point and time.
“Making deals in boxing isn't nor should be rocket science,” said Lou DiBella, president of DiBella Entertainment and promoter of Martinez.
Martinez, of Quilmes, Argentina, now 49-2-2, (28) captured the linear championship on April 17, 2010 in Atlantic City, NJ. after decisively outpointing middleweight king Kelly Pavlik. Martinez went on to defend the WBC title once against Paul Willams, only to be stripped of the title four months later. Martinez was forced to relinquish the green strap due to failing to make his mandatory defense against Sebastian Zbik. HBO passed on the opportunity to televise the fight so in an attempt to stay busy, Martinez fought Serhiy Dzinziruk months later on the same network. With Zbik having a date to fight without an opponent, in came in Chavez and the two duked it out for the vacant WBC title in June of last year. So as we press the fast forward button, hopefully you are all caught up on the facts surrounding this terrific match-up, which prompted Martinez's trainer, Pablo Sarmiento to utter, “Junior’s big mouth has gotten him into trouble and he will be forced to give Martinez back his title.”
Yesterday afternoon, Chavez and Martinez reached the third and final leg of their press conference tour. The Edison Hotel in “Gotham City” played host as the two pugilists traded verbal jabs at each other. It was evident that the two fighters simply had enough of each other.
“You are going to need a new I.D. after I get done with you,” said Martinez, now 37 years of age. “I am going to give you such a whupping that no one will be able to recognize you.”
Chavez, looking a little soft around the midsection, had no other choice but to smile. What else could he do? He was on the opposite side of dais from where Martinez was posted but it was obvious he was bothered by the comments. Chavez’s body language indicated it.
“Intriguing” would be an appropriate adjective accurately describing this fight, considering that just a couple of years ago, most of the pundits would have described it as a one-sided mismatch in favor of Martinez. However, as time went on, Chavez, a fighter with zero amateur background, has come into his own. Under the tutelage of Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach, Chavez has proven the critics wrong, evolving into more than just a name. Speaking of names, Chavez Sr. was in attendance celebrating his 50th birthday. But besides blowing out candles and eating cake, Chavez Sr. came to the aid of his son. Besides yelling, “Bullsh*t!” at Martinez's disses, Senior assessed Junior's progress.
“Junior has been growing real fast,” the elder Chavez told Maxboxing. “At first, Junior was getting a lot of negative press but with time, he got the seasoning he needed and has grown professionally. Junior is where he needs to be and where he is supposed to be at this stage in his career. Thanks to his discipline and talent, Junior is focused on his craft.”
As fight night slowly but surely approaches, we would be remiss to not play fight analyst and break down this fight. There are a couple of interesting components surrounding this great match-up. First and foremost, Chavez's size. Physically, Chavez is the bigger man. Therefore, it isn't out of the realm of possibility that on fight night, he could weigh anywhere near 180 pounds if not more. The second factor is Martinez's age. At 37, Martinez is 11 years older than Chavez. Sure, we have seen much older fighters accomplish more but here’s the kicker: guys like Bernard Hopkins, Glen Johnson and Antonio Tarver do not rely on their “second wind” the way Martinez does. You have to figure that “Father Time” is always lurking. Fighters getting old overnight isn't a new phenomenon.
You should expect the native of Culiacan, Mexico to cut off the ring and impose his size against the older and smaller Martinez (Martinez will probably weigh 165 pounds on fight night). Chavez's game plan will probably involve forcing Martinez to expend a lot more energy than he is accustomed to in hopes that Martinez will be flat in the later rounds.
When questioned about the possibilities due to the cards that are dealt, Martinez vehemently disagreed.
“It's obvious that I am at a disadvantage when it comes to size,” said the southpaw Martinez, who opened up as an 8-5 favorite, continuing, “Just because that's the case, it doesn't necessarily mean that I will use up more energy. What it’s going to come down to is creating a better game plan than him, coming up with a better strategy than normal. I will attack the body but at the end of the day, my speed, toughness and hunger is what's going to be the difference in which my hand will be raised in victory.”
There may have been a lot of trash talking between the two, as well as their camps, but when sitting with Chavez, it was plain to see that he has a lot of respect for his counterpart's fight game. Of course, this was regardless of the fact he may have publicly referred to his opponent as a “ballerina,” when asked about Martinez.
“He isn't your typical 37-year-old fighter,” replied Chavez, now 46-0-1, (32). “He is far from being an old. I am aware of the difficult task that lies ahead of me but I will be prepared physically and mentally. I am at a great place in my career. I have grown professionally. I can box and change it up if I have to. Plus, this is the first time in my career that I am an underdog. It's a great feeling; it’s really serving as a huge motivator for me.”
When the smoke clears and the dust settles, this contest will be won by the fighter who can make the proper technical adjustments necessary. If you're the type of fan who bases an opinion on past history, then this intangible clearly favors Martinez.
“Martinez stinks!” shouted Chavez Sr. “Martinez runs and drops his hands. Martinez also talks a lot of sh*t. He will eat it on September 15.”
The party has started. Let the fun begin.
Press Conference Tidbits…
- There will be a “24/7” series courtesy of HBO following both fighters leading up to the actual fight.
- A new episode of “Face Off with Max Kellerman” featuring both fighters was filmed yesterday in New York City.
- Martinez's advisor, Sampson Lewkowicz, announced he is expecting his first grandchild.
- Martinez is speaking English now and has grasped the language quickly.
- Martinez is doing a lot of philanthropic and charity work for organizations denouncing bullying and domestic violence. Monique McClain, once a victim of bullying, attended the press conference and has forged a friendship with Martinez like no other, becoming an amateur boxer herself.
- Chavez's manager, Fernando Beltran, called Martinez a “f**king clown.” This prompted Lewkowicz to get up out of his seat, resulting in a mini confrontation.
- Cerveza Tecate is offering a $25 rebate for the pay-per-view if you purchase a 10-pack of beer.
- Last but not least, author and writer Thomas Hauser was in attendance. Maxboxing caught up with him to get his take on the Tim Bradley-Manny Pacquiao debacle (in which he was present) as well as his thoughts on upcoming fights.
“The night of the fight, I scored the fight 6-5-1 in favor of Bradley. Now after reviewing the tape twice, I scored the fight 7-5 Pacquiao. Unlike many people in boxing, I admit when I am wrong. The reaction of the boxing community has been unfair to Tim. What's ironic of it all is that it’s one of those rare instances where the decision went against the house fighter.”
As for Andre Ward vs. Chad Dawson?
“I am not going to attend the fight. However, it is a very intriguing fight. I think the deck has been stacked in Ward's favor considering that he is fighting in Oakland and that Chad is being forced to go down to 168
Adrien Broner: “I'm blessed with this talent, and I'm not going to let it go to waste”
By John J. Raspanti, Doghouse Boxing (July 16, 2012) Doghouse Boxing
By John J. Raspanti - “You can't be the king of the streets and the king of the ring. You have to pick one”
The mother of Adrien Broner
Adrien Broner was nicknamed “The Problem” sixteen years ago. Back then, the adults in his life weren’t sure what to do with him.
“It all started when I was a kid,” said Broner during a phone interview. “Me and my twin would go out and it would be like, 'Oh it's a problem.’ “
Broner, 22, is the youngest world champion in the U.S.A. He’s undefeated in 23 professional fights with 19 knockouts. On July 21, he’ll be defending his WBO junior featherweight title for the second time against Vicente Escobedo of Woodland, CA.
Some have said that Broner is the second coming of Floyd “Money” Mayweather. He’s flashy like Mayweather, and loaded with confidence. Broner himself is a big fan of Mayweather, but “The Problem” does have one singular advantage over his idol. He can punch.
Of his 19 knockout victories, ten have occurred in the first round.
Broner began boxing at age six. His initial experience with the sport was both thrilling and painful.
"You know my dad took me to the gym,” Broner said. “We used to box all the time in the yard. Me and my buddy would beat everybody up.”
“My first day in the gym, they put me in the ring with an eight-year old. I beat him up real bad. They then put me in with the best eight-year-old they had and I beat him up real bad. I dropped him and everything.
“So they called, ‘nuke, nuke,'” he recalled. “Nuke is the three-time Olympian Rau'shee Warren. He was nine at the time. He jumps in the ring with his braids and Jordon's on. He beat me up pretty bad and made me cry, and I've been there (in the gym) ever since."
Energized, but lacking direction, Broner needed something to keep him focused. He found it in boxing. But what kept him coming back to the gym?
"Competition,"he said. "I love the contact. Also the skill involved. Boxing isn't something you can just jump into. You can’t wakeup out of bed and say, 'Ah, I think I'm going to be a boxer today.' You just can't do that. So, that's what I love about it," he said. "I'm blessed with this talent, and I'm not going to let it go to waste.”
Broner pushes himself hard during his training camp. He refuses to assume anything.
"I just don't rely on my talent,” Broner said. “I also put in the work."
His competition has improved steadily over the course of his career. Is there one opponent who stands out?
"I don't know, I make them all look so easy.” Broner says with a chuckle. “I know deep down in my heart that I haven't had nobody bring out the best in Adrien Broner. I’ve had some good competition.”
Broner won the vacant WBO super featherweight title last November when he starched Vicente Rodriguez in three rounds. He defended his title in Cincinnati last February, knocking out an overmatched Eloy Perez.
"I've already done some great things,” Broner said. “That's why they compare me to Mayweather. They say guys like me don't come along again for fifty or sixty years."
Most fighters like to study tape of their future foes. It’s a proven preparation tool, and one utilized by many fighters and trainers. But Broner, like Mayweather, prefers to adapt during the fight.
“I don't watch tape of my opponents,” said Broner. “I just make sure I'm mentally and physically prepared. I get in there, make my adjustments, and go from there.
Unlike many boxers, Broner enjoys training. He believes his camp for the upcoming Escobedo bout was a success.
"Everything has been going well,” Broner said, “I'm not going to put no names out, who the real king is - I'm not going to say anything except I'm ready. You’re going to see something real special in a few weeks."
The accusations of being cocky bother Broner. He feels that the public doesn’t understand what it takes to be the best.
"If you want to be number one and be the best, you have to think you’re the best," said Broner. “Some people get cocky and confidence mixed up. I'm nowhere near cocky. I'm just very confident and I believe in myself.
“I will never go into a fight thinking that a guy has the upper-hand on me, “he continued.
”It don't matter who it is, I'm going to act the same, and I'm going to go in there and fight the same, like I'm the best.”
Broner has two other passions in his life besides boxing - music and being a father to his four kids (with a fifth on the way.)
“In my spare time I'm making music,” he said. “I'm a great father. If I'm not in the studio, I'm with my kids or my girlfriend. That's what I do.”
Broner ran with gangs from an early age. As he grew older, he realized he had to make choices about what direction his life should take. Boxing saved him.
"Even though I was in the street I did a lot. I did it all, “he said. “From the stuff I seen in those days, it matured me and calmed me down. When I was in my last situation it humbled me and made me see that boxing was my way out. I just had my son Adrien Jr., I had to stop doing the things I was doing for his sake.
“My dad was always around, so I wanted to be around for my kids,” he said. “My mom told me when I got out of my situation, she said, 'You can't be the king of the streets and the king of the ring. You have to pick one.' I picked boxing.”
By John J. Raspanti, Doghouse Boxing (July 16, 2012) Doghouse Boxing
By John J. Raspanti - “You can't be the king of the streets and the king of the ring. You have to pick one”
The mother of Adrien Broner
Adrien Broner was nicknamed “The Problem” sixteen years ago. Back then, the adults in his life weren’t sure what to do with him.
“It all started when I was a kid,” said Broner during a phone interview. “Me and my twin would go out and it would be like, 'Oh it's a problem.’ “
Broner, 22, is the youngest world champion in the U.S.A. He’s undefeated in 23 professional fights with 19 knockouts. On July 21, he’ll be defending his WBO junior featherweight title for the second time against Vicente Escobedo of Woodland, CA.
Some have said that Broner is the second coming of Floyd “Money” Mayweather. He’s flashy like Mayweather, and loaded with confidence. Broner himself is a big fan of Mayweather, but “The Problem” does have one singular advantage over his idol. He can punch.
Of his 19 knockout victories, ten have occurred in the first round.
Broner began boxing at age six. His initial experience with the sport was both thrilling and painful.
"You know my dad took me to the gym,” Broner said. “We used to box all the time in the yard. Me and my buddy would beat everybody up.”
“My first day in the gym, they put me in the ring with an eight-year old. I beat him up real bad. They then put me in with the best eight-year-old they had and I beat him up real bad. I dropped him and everything.
“So they called, ‘nuke, nuke,'” he recalled. “Nuke is the three-time Olympian Rau'shee Warren. He was nine at the time. He jumps in the ring with his braids and Jordon's on. He beat me up pretty bad and made me cry, and I've been there (in the gym) ever since."
Energized, but lacking direction, Broner needed something to keep him focused. He found it in boxing. But what kept him coming back to the gym?
"Competition,"he said. "I love the contact. Also the skill involved. Boxing isn't something you can just jump into. You can’t wakeup out of bed and say, 'Ah, I think I'm going to be a boxer today.' You just can't do that. So, that's what I love about it," he said. "I'm blessed with this talent, and I'm not going to let it go to waste.”
Broner pushes himself hard during his training camp. He refuses to assume anything.
"I just don't rely on my talent,” Broner said. “I also put in the work."
His competition has improved steadily over the course of his career. Is there one opponent who stands out?
"I don't know, I make them all look so easy.” Broner says with a chuckle. “I know deep down in my heart that I haven't had nobody bring out the best in Adrien Broner. I’ve had some good competition.”
Broner won the vacant WBO super featherweight title last November when he starched Vicente Rodriguez in three rounds. He defended his title in Cincinnati last February, knocking out an overmatched Eloy Perez.
"I've already done some great things,” Broner said. “That's why they compare me to Mayweather. They say guys like me don't come along again for fifty or sixty years."
Most fighters like to study tape of their future foes. It’s a proven preparation tool, and one utilized by many fighters and trainers. But Broner, like Mayweather, prefers to adapt during the fight.
“I don't watch tape of my opponents,” said Broner. “I just make sure I'm mentally and physically prepared. I get in there, make my adjustments, and go from there.
Unlike many boxers, Broner enjoys training. He believes his camp for the upcoming Escobedo bout was a success.
"Everything has been going well,” Broner said, “I'm not going to put no names out, who the real king is - I'm not going to say anything except I'm ready. You’re going to see something real special in a few weeks."
The accusations of being cocky bother Broner. He feels that the public doesn’t understand what it takes to be the best.
"If you want to be number one and be the best, you have to think you’re the best," said Broner. “Some people get cocky and confidence mixed up. I'm nowhere near cocky. I'm just very confident and I believe in myself.
“I will never go into a fight thinking that a guy has the upper-hand on me, “he continued.
”It don't matter who it is, I'm going to act the same, and I'm going to go in there and fight the same, like I'm the best.”
Broner has two other passions in his life besides boxing - music and being a father to his four kids (with a fifth on the way.)
“In my spare time I'm making music,” he said. “I'm a great father. If I'm not in the studio, I'm with my kids or my girlfriend. That's what I do.”
Broner ran with gangs from an early age. As he grew older, he realized he had to make choices about what direction his life should take. Boxing saved him.
"Even though I was in the street I did a lot. I did it all, “he said. “From the stuff I seen in those days, it matured me and calmed me down. When I was in my last situation it humbled me and made me see that boxing was my way out. I just had my son Adrien Jr., I had to stop doing the things I was doing for his sake.
“My dad was always around, so I wanted to be around for my kids,” he said. “My mom told me when I got out of my situation, she said, 'You can't be the king of the streets and the king of the ring. You have to pick one.' I picked boxing.”
Marc “Too Sharp” Johnson Interview - Youngest Boxer to Enter IBHOF at 40!
By Ken Hissner, Doghouse Boxing (July 16, 2012) Doghouse Boxing
-
Marc “Too Sharp” Johnson
It’s been 6 years since Marc “Too Sharp” Johnson has fought and 8 years since his last defense of his WBO Super flyweight title his entering into the IBHOF seemed like a long time coming. One of his best “punch” lines in accepting his induction was “I don’t think there have been this many people on a stage of this magnitude in boxing without somebody hitting somebody,” said Johnson.
Johnson stated “I was the first Washington, DC, boxer to be born and raised there to make it to the IBHOF.” He once had a winning streak of 39 fights from 1991 to 2001. The loss was originally given a victory for Johnson and reversed 2 hours later. It was his first of two fights with Rafael Marquez, 25-3, by split decision. Referee Robert Gonzalez took away 2 points for holding which cost Johnson the fight. He would suffer his first stoppage loss in the rematch.
In 1993 Johnson won something called World Boxing Board flyweight title. He would defend it 10 times through 1995. In 1996 He won the vacant IBF flyweight title defeating Colombia’s Francisco Tejedor, 43-4-1, in the first round. He would make 7 defenses before moving up and winning the vacant IBF super flyweight title in his hometown defeating Ratanachai Sor Vorapin, 36-3 in April of 1999.
Challengers for Johnson’s IBF flyweight title came from Mexico (3) and Puerto Rico (3) with a lone one from the US in No. 1 contender Arthur Johnson, 17-3 in the first round. In 2003 Johnson won the WBO super flyweight title defeating Mexican Fernando Montiel, 27-0-1, by majority decision. He had been diagnosed with appendicitis days before this match. In his lone successful defense he stopped Luis Bolano, 41-1, of Colombia. His only fight out of the US was in his second fight losing to Richie Wenton, 5-0, in the UK.
Johnson would lose to Ivan Hernandez, 17-0-1, in his second defense in September of 2004. It wouldn’t be until 2006 in his next fight that he lost to Jhonny Gonzalez, 31-4. He was stopped in both matches and retired after the latter one.
Johnson had an outstanding amateur career going 125-6 losing in the 1988 Olympic trials to Eric Griffins. His father Abraham “Ham” Johnson started training him at the age of 5. He would always be in his son’s corner. Chris Ray was always there, too, as his cut-man. For the Fernando Montiel, 27-0-1, Chilly Wilson was in the corner.
Today Johnson is working for the DC Department of Parks & Recreations Roving Leaders Program. He reaches out to “at risk youth”. Johnson has found Jesus Christ as His Lord & Savior. He hopes to eventually become a boxing referee. At 40 he is the youngest boxer to ever be inducted into the IBHOF.
Johnson was good enough to answer some questions:
KEN HISSNER: You have become the youngest boxer to enter the IBHOF at 40. Another Johnson, Reggie, recently told me he was coming back to become the oldest boxer to win a championship. Please tell me there are no plans for a comeback.
MARC JOHNSON: I’m still thinking about it. How he does might help me make up my mind. I really want to be a professional referee.
KEN HISSNER: Do you know Steve Smoger?
MARC JOHNSON: Double SS! Who doesn’t?
KEN HISSNER: I will make a connection for you. He was just in the Middle East doing a seminar. He should be back this week.
KEN HISSNER: You lost to Eric Griffin in the Olympic Trials in 1988. What happened?
MARC JOHNSON: My brother James Harris and I got to the semi-finals. My brother lost to Michael Carbajal. I got robbed in the Griffin fight and he tested positive for Marijuana but they still let him fight Carbajal. He lost and I was thinking pro’s after that though my brother tried again in 1992.
KEN HISSNER: Your first good opponent may have been Alberto Jimenez, 24-2-1, whom you won a split decision over for the World Boxing Board Flyweight title in 1993.
MARC JOHNSON: That was a tough fight.
KEN HISSNER: In 1994 you defended the WBB title for the sixth time against Enrique Orozco, 28-1-1. Tell us something about that fight.
MARC JOHNSON: In the third round he broke my right eye socket under my eye. In the twelfth and final round I broke his jaw and they stopped it.
KEN HISSNER: In May of 1996 you stopped Colombian Francisco Tejedor, 43-4-1, in the first round to win the vacant IBF flyweight title. Tell us how thrilling that was.
MARC JOHNSON: Nobody was going to deny me the championship at that time.
KEN HISSNER: In your fifth title defense you stopped NABF champion Arthur Johnson, 17-3, in the first round.
MARC JOHNSON: Yes, and he had made the Olympic team at 112, a division over Carbajal. I was surprised he went out so fast.
KEN HISSNER: You only fought out of the US once and that was in your second fight in the UK. Was that the reason you never fought out of the US, and if not why?
MARC JOHNSON: It was a bad decision and I vowed not to go overseas again unless there was a boat load of money involved.
KEN HISSNER: In 1999 you win the vacant IBF super flyweight title in your hometown of DC over Thailand’s Ratanachai Sor Vorapin, 36-3 who would later win the WBO bantamweight title in 2004. Was this an even bigger thrill than winning the flyweight title?
MARC JOHNSON: It was a bigger thrill having won my second division title. I couldn’t get Danny Romero in 1996 or Johnny Tapia in 1999. Cameron Dunkin had both fighters and would never let either fight me.
KEN HISSNER: You had a defense against Raul Juarez, 28-5, in DC, in November of 1999 which ended in a NC in 4 due to low blows on the part of both boxers. What happened?
MARC JOHNSON: It was our second fight and Juarez was looking for a way out.
KEN HISSNER: You had won 39 straight fights and met Rafael Marquez, 25-3 in Texas. You thought you won the fight but didn’t. What happened?
MARC JOHNSON: They declared me the winner but reversed the decision 2 hours later.
KEN HISSNER: You had a real scare before the month was out after signing for a rematch with Marquez. What happened?
MARC JOHNSON: I was standing on the corner with Leon “Too Sharp” Wilkins. I was known as Lil Sharp then. I was shot in the foot and he was shot to death. We never knew who did it. He was my best friend so I took his name “Too Sharp”.
KEN HISSNER: What happened in the Marquez rematch?
MARC JOHNSON: I was winning the fight early but he came on and dropped me with a body shot in the eighth round to win the fight.
KEN HISSNER: After the Juarez rematch in 1999 you never made 115 again until 2003 for the WBO super flyweight title defeating Mexico’s Fernando Montiel, 27-0-1. How were you able to make that weight and was that the first and only time Chilly Wilson was in your corner?
MARC JOHNSON: I wanted to fight at 118. I had beaten champion Tim Austin twice in the amateurs so I knew I’d never get that chance. Chilly Wilson sparred with me when I was an amateur and we had him help us in the corner.
KEN HISSNER: After defeating Puerto Rico’s Luis Bolano, 41-1, at 115, 4 months later you were at 123 in a non title bout. Just 2 months after that you were back to 115 losing to Ivan Hernandez, 17-0-1. Was weight a problem?
MARC JOHNSON: I was drained making weight and thought in 24 hours I could get my energy back but didn’t. I could barely walk to the scales.
KEN HISSNER: You ended your career losing to Jhonny Gonzalez, 31-4, for his WBO bantam title. He is the current WBC featherweight champion now. You couldn’t make weight so it was a non-title bout.
MARC JOHNSON: I knew my career was over. My family and friends even let me know.
KEN HISSNER: When did you accept Jesus Christ as Your Lord & Savior?
MARC JOHNSON: I accepted Christ as my Savior in 1993 at the 2nd Baptist church in Southwest DC.
KEN HISSNER: Who had the most influence on you?
MARC JOHNSON: I’m a momma’s boy. My mom was always there for me. She would bang on my door with a spoon and say “get up and run”. She is my best friend and I call her every day.
KEN HISSNER: I want to thank you for taking the time to answer these questions. Anything you want to say to your fans?
MARC JOHNSON: I look forward to be back in the ring someday either as a boxer or a referee
By Ken Hissner, Doghouse Boxing (July 16, 2012) Doghouse Boxing
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Marc “Too Sharp” Johnson
It’s been 6 years since Marc “Too Sharp” Johnson has fought and 8 years since his last defense of his WBO Super flyweight title his entering into the IBHOF seemed like a long time coming. One of his best “punch” lines in accepting his induction was “I don’t think there have been this many people on a stage of this magnitude in boxing without somebody hitting somebody,” said Johnson.
Johnson stated “I was the first Washington, DC, boxer to be born and raised there to make it to the IBHOF.” He once had a winning streak of 39 fights from 1991 to 2001. The loss was originally given a victory for Johnson and reversed 2 hours later. It was his first of two fights with Rafael Marquez, 25-3, by split decision. Referee Robert Gonzalez took away 2 points for holding which cost Johnson the fight. He would suffer his first stoppage loss in the rematch.
In 1993 Johnson won something called World Boxing Board flyweight title. He would defend it 10 times through 1995. In 1996 He won the vacant IBF flyweight title defeating Colombia’s Francisco Tejedor, 43-4-1, in the first round. He would make 7 defenses before moving up and winning the vacant IBF super flyweight title in his hometown defeating Ratanachai Sor Vorapin, 36-3 in April of 1999.
Challengers for Johnson’s IBF flyweight title came from Mexico (3) and Puerto Rico (3) with a lone one from the US in No. 1 contender Arthur Johnson, 17-3 in the first round. In 2003 Johnson won the WBO super flyweight title defeating Mexican Fernando Montiel, 27-0-1, by majority decision. He had been diagnosed with appendicitis days before this match. In his lone successful defense he stopped Luis Bolano, 41-1, of Colombia. His only fight out of the US was in his second fight losing to Richie Wenton, 5-0, in the UK.
Johnson would lose to Ivan Hernandez, 17-0-1, in his second defense in September of 2004. It wouldn’t be until 2006 in his next fight that he lost to Jhonny Gonzalez, 31-4. He was stopped in both matches and retired after the latter one.
Johnson had an outstanding amateur career going 125-6 losing in the 1988 Olympic trials to Eric Griffins. His father Abraham “Ham” Johnson started training him at the age of 5. He would always be in his son’s corner. Chris Ray was always there, too, as his cut-man. For the Fernando Montiel, 27-0-1, Chilly Wilson was in the corner.
Today Johnson is working for the DC Department of Parks & Recreations Roving Leaders Program. He reaches out to “at risk youth”. Johnson has found Jesus Christ as His Lord & Savior. He hopes to eventually become a boxing referee. At 40 he is the youngest boxer to ever be inducted into the IBHOF.
Johnson was good enough to answer some questions:
KEN HISSNER: You have become the youngest boxer to enter the IBHOF at 40. Another Johnson, Reggie, recently told me he was coming back to become the oldest boxer to win a championship. Please tell me there are no plans for a comeback.
MARC JOHNSON: I’m still thinking about it. How he does might help me make up my mind. I really want to be a professional referee.
KEN HISSNER: Do you know Steve Smoger?
MARC JOHNSON: Double SS! Who doesn’t?
KEN HISSNER: I will make a connection for you. He was just in the Middle East doing a seminar. He should be back this week.
KEN HISSNER: You lost to Eric Griffin in the Olympic Trials in 1988. What happened?
MARC JOHNSON: My brother James Harris and I got to the semi-finals. My brother lost to Michael Carbajal. I got robbed in the Griffin fight and he tested positive for Marijuana but they still let him fight Carbajal. He lost and I was thinking pro’s after that though my brother tried again in 1992.
KEN HISSNER: Your first good opponent may have been Alberto Jimenez, 24-2-1, whom you won a split decision over for the World Boxing Board Flyweight title in 1993.
MARC JOHNSON: That was a tough fight.
KEN HISSNER: In 1994 you defended the WBB title for the sixth time against Enrique Orozco, 28-1-1. Tell us something about that fight.
MARC JOHNSON: In the third round he broke my right eye socket under my eye. In the twelfth and final round I broke his jaw and they stopped it.
KEN HISSNER: In May of 1996 you stopped Colombian Francisco Tejedor, 43-4-1, in the first round to win the vacant IBF flyweight title. Tell us how thrilling that was.
MARC JOHNSON: Nobody was going to deny me the championship at that time.
KEN HISSNER: In your fifth title defense you stopped NABF champion Arthur Johnson, 17-3, in the first round.
MARC JOHNSON: Yes, and he had made the Olympic team at 112, a division over Carbajal. I was surprised he went out so fast.
KEN HISSNER: You only fought out of the US once and that was in your second fight in the UK. Was that the reason you never fought out of the US, and if not why?
MARC JOHNSON: It was a bad decision and I vowed not to go overseas again unless there was a boat load of money involved.
KEN HISSNER: In 1999 you win the vacant IBF super flyweight title in your hometown of DC over Thailand’s Ratanachai Sor Vorapin, 36-3 who would later win the WBO bantamweight title in 2004. Was this an even bigger thrill than winning the flyweight title?
MARC JOHNSON: It was a bigger thrill having won my second division title. I couldn’t get Danny Romero in 1996 or Johnny Tapia in 1999. Cameron Dunkin had both fighters and would never let either fight me.
KEN HISSNER: You had a defense against Raul Juarez, 28-5, in DC, in November of 1999 which ended in a NC in 4 due to low blows on the part of both boxers. What happened?
MARC JOHNSON: It was our second fight and Juarez was looking for a way out.
KEN HISSNER: You had won 39 straight fights and met Rafael Marquez, 25-3 in Texas. You thought you won the fight but didn’t. What happened?
MARC JOHNSON: They declared me the winner but reversed the decision 2 hours later.
KEN HISSNER: You had a real scare before the month was out after signing for a rematch with Marquez. What happened?
MARC JOHNSON: I was standing on the corner with Leon “Too Sharp” Wilkins. I was known as Lil Sharp then. I was shot in the foot and he was shot to death. We never knew who did it. He was my best friend so I took his name “Too Sharp”.
KEN HISSNER: What happened in the Marquez rematch?
MARC JOHNSON: I was winning the fight early but he came on and dropped me with a body shot in the eighth round to win the fight.
KEN HISSNER: After the Juarez rematch in 1999 you never made 115 again until 2003 for the WBO super flyweight title defeating Mexico’s Fernando Montiel, 27-0-1. How were you able to make that weight and was that the first and only time Chilly Wilson was in your corner?
MARC JOHNSON: I wanted to fight at 118. I had beaten champion Tim Austin twice in the amateurs so I knew I’d never get that chance. Chilly Wilson sparred with me when I was an amateur and we had him help us in the corner.
KEN HISSNER: After defeating Puerto Rico’s Luis Bolano, 41-1, at 115, 4 months later you were at 123 in a non title bout. Just 2 months after that you were back to 115 losing to Ivan Hernandez, 17-0-1. Was weight a problem?
MARC JOHNSON: I was drained making weight and thought in 24 hours I could get my energy back but didn’t. I could barely walk to the scales.
KEN HISSNER: You ended your career losing to Jhonny Gonzalez, 31-4, for his WBO bantam title. He is the current WBC featherweight champion now. You couldn’t make weight so it was a non-title bout.
MARC JOHNSON: I knew my career was over. My family and friends even let me know.
KEN HISSNER: When did you accept Jesus Christ as Your Lord & Savior?
MARC JOHNSON: I accepted Christ as my Savior in 1993 at the 2nd Baptist church in Southwest DC.
KEN HISSNER: Who had the most influence on you?
MARC JOHNSON: I’m a momma’s boy. My mom was always there for me. She would bang on my door with a spoon and say “get up and run”. She is my best friend and I call her every day.
KEN HISSNER: I want to thank you for taking the time to answer these questions. Anything you want to say to your fans?
MARC JOHNSON: I look forward to be back in the ring someday either as a boxer or a referee
Trainer Danny Garcia reveals why he and Victor Ortiz have parted ways
by Chris Robinson
2012 has produced some telling upsets thus far in the world of boxing and the aftermath of some of the aforementioned defeats is still taking shape.
On Sunday morning I caught up with Ventura, California-based trainer Danny Garcia, who revealed to me that he is no longer working with his former star fighter, Victor Ortiz. The news comes on the heels of Ortiz’s dramatic loss to Josesito Lopez last month in Los Angeles, a fight that Ortiz was winning but one that he would elect not to continue in following the ninth round because of a broken jaw he had suffered.
There apparently was some confusion that took place in the corner on that night inside of Staples Center, as Ortiz told Garcia that he had a broken jaw in the fifth while questioning whether he should continue. Garcia, fully believing that his man was on his way towards victory, talked Ortiz into giving him two more rounds and would make the same plea in seventh.
Ortiz would take all he could handle before making the decision to call things off and it was later revealed that his injury was so severe that he had to have a metal plate with screw inserted into his jaw and will likely be off for about six months.
Last week, Philboxing.com’s Ed de la Vega first made mention of rumors swirling about Ortiz taking displeasure from the way Garcia handled himself in the corner during the Lopez fight and Danny confirmed to me that this is indeed the end of the line for the fighter-trainer tandem.
“I went to Victor’s house, me and my oldest son,” Garcia stated. “We went to talk to him because I feel like he wasn’t doing the things that I told him to do, especially in the last fight against Josesito. He didn’t do the things that I told him to do. He did a little bit of the plan but some things he didn’t do right.”
With Ortiz’s faith in his trainer waning, Garcia pointed out that he too had concern for what he felt was a lack of obedience.
“It looks like he doesn’t have confidence in me, he doesn’t trust me,” Garcia continued. “I told him that ‘I don’t think I’m going to have confidence either; I don’t think I’m going to trust you, because you didn’t listen to me’. It’s better if I go my own way and he can do his own way.”
Garcia’s ride with Ortiz was a rollercoaster in itself, as he had to endure some backlash from his own family after taking in the fighter following Victor’s split from Danny’s younger brother Robert. The duo’s pinnacle came last year when Ortiz scored a thrilling victory over Andre Berto to briefly capture the WBC welterweight championship and Danny stayed classy when discussing some parting words that he had for Ortiz.
“’I will never forget you, because you were my first champion of the world and you gave me a lot of good moments,’” Garcia noted. “He gave me some big, big memories and I’m pretty sure he feels the same way about me because I made him a champion. We’ve got to be friends. We shook hands, he gave me a hug, but we decided to stop doing business together.”
by Chris Robinson
2012 has produced some telling upsets thus far in the world of boxing and the aftermath of some of the aforementioned defeats is still taking shape.
On Sunday morning I caught up with Ventura, California-based trainer Danny Garcia, who revealed to me that he is no longer working with his former star fighter, Victor Ortiz. The news comes on the heels of Ortiz’s dramatic loss to Josesito Lopez last month in Los Angeles, a fight that Ortiz was winning but one that he would elect not to continue in following the ninth round because of a broken jaw he had suffered.
There apparently was some confusion that took place in the corner on that night inside of Staples Center, as Ortiz told Garcia that he had a broken jaw in the fifth while questioning whether he should continue. Garcia, fully believing that his man was on his way towards victory, talked Ortiz into giving him two more rounds and would make the same plea in seventh.
Ortiz would take all he could handle before making the decision to call things off and it was later revealed that his injury was so severe that he had to have a metal plate with screw inserted into his jaw and will likely be off for about six months.
Last week, Philboxing.com’s Ed de la Vega first made mention of rumors swirling about Ortiz taking displeasure from the way Garcia handled himself in the corner during the Lopez fight and Danny confirmed to me that this is indeed the end of the line for the fighter-trainer tandem.
“I went to Victor’s house, me and my oldest son,” Garcia stated. “We went to talk to him because I feel like he wasn’t doing the things that I told him to do, especially in the last fight against Josesito. He didn’t do the things that I told him to do. He did a little bit of the plan but some things he didn’t do right.”
With Ortiz’s faith in his trainer waning, Garcia pointed out that he too had concern for what he felt was a lack of obedience.
“It looks like he doesn’t have confidence in me, he doesn’t trust me,” Garcia continued. “I told him that ‘I don’t think I’m going to have confidence either; I don’t think I’m going to trust you, because you didn’t listen to me’. It’s better if I go my own way and he can do his own way.”
Garcia’s ride with Ortiz was a rollercoaster in itself, as he had to endure some backlash from his own family after taking in the fighter following Victor’s split from Danny’s younger brother Robert. The duo’s pinnacle came last year when Ortiz scored a thrilling victory over Andre Berto to briefly capture the WBC welterweight championship and Danny stayed classy when discussing some parting words that he had for Ortiz.
“’I will never forget you, because you were my first champion of the world and you gave me a lot of good moments,’” Garcia noted. “He gave me some big, big memories and I’m pretty sure he feels the same way about me because I made him a champion. We’ve got to be friends. We shook hands, he gave me a hug, but we decided to stop doing business together.”
Ortiz and Khan are done as fighters on a elite level. Ortiz has mental problems and Khan has an egg shell chin and fights with his chin up in the air. Steward or Cotto's new trainer would be good for Khan. Ortiz needs to go to a head doctor no trainer will help him, dude has all the boxing tools, but he has the heart of the cowardly lion and mental issuse.
great news! Rigondeaux should leave Top Rank if they don't offer him Donaire! and fuck with Money May like Gamboa
Guillermo Rigondeaux Update
By Gabriel F. Cordero
A source has informed fightnews.com that WBA super bantamweight world champion Guillermo Rigondeaux could be in negotiations with Top Rank to extend his promotional contract by two years. Rigondeaux’s contract with Top Rank officially expired on Monday July 16. Although it is known that Rigondeaux also has had talks with Mayweather Boxing and Golden Boy Promotions, his first choice is Top Rank. The source also confirmed that Rigondeaux could appear on the September 15 card between Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez.
Guillermo Rigondeaux Update
By Gabriel F. Cordero
A source has informed fightnews.com that WBA super bantamweight world champion Guillermo Rigondeaux could be in negotiations with Top Rank to extend his promotional contract by two years. Rigondeaux’s contract with Top Rank officially expired on Monday July 16. Although it is known that Rigondeaux also has had talks with Mayweather Boxing and Golden Boy Promotions, his first choice is Top Rank. The source also confirmed that Rigondeaux could appear on the September 15 card between Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez.