Boxing News Thread
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Didn't go through the thread so my bad if this was posted already just thought it was interesting ..
Flyweight titlist Donaire, junior middleweight Kirkland fire promoter
Two of boxing's brightest young stars, flyweight titleholder Nonito Donaire and rising junior middleweight prospect James Kirkland, have severed ties with promoter Gary Shaw because they claim he breached their promotional contracts, manager Cameron Dunkin told ESPN.com.
Donaire declared his free agency last week while Kirkland, co-managed with Dunkin by attorney Michael Miller, fired Shaw this week.
Both fighters sent the New Jersey-based promoter legal letters informing him that they had terminated their relationship because he was behind on the number of fights he owed them and had failed to properly disclose revenue from previous fights.
"[Shaw] was behind on fights for both of them and they were not staying busy," Dunkin said. "One is a world champion and one is a very hot prospect and they need to fight. We really need to get these kids somewhere to keep them more active. They both wanted to fight and they were both unhappy."
According to the letter Miller sent Shaw on Kirkland's behalf, which was obtained by ESPN.com, Kirkland signed a promotional agreement with Gary Shaw Productions on Feb. 27, 2006.
Under the contract, Shaw "was to provide James Kirkland with a minimum of five bouts per year for each of the first two contract years," Miller wrote in the letter. "In fact, GSP did not do so; for the second contract year it provided only three bouts. This had the effect of impairing Mr. Kirkland's career. This was brought to your attention by my letter of March 10, 2008. Absolutely no steps were taken to cure.
"We also point out that GSP is in violation of the Muhammad Ali Act in that it has provided no revenue statements to Mr. Kirkland as required by the Act and under your own contract. Please be advised that as a result of these breaches and actions Mr. Kirkland hereby terminates the contract."
Dunkin said a similar letter was sent to Shaw on Donaire's behalf.
Donaire (19-0-1, 12 KOs) won a 112-pound world title via crushing fifth-round knockout of Vic Darchinyan on July 7, 2007, and has fought just once since, an eighth-round TKO of Luis Maldonado in a Dec. 1 title defense.
The 25-year-old Filipino, who is based in California, signed with Shaw to get a shot at Darchinyan, whom he also promotes. Dunkin said the issues with Shaw came to a head when he was being considered for an Aug. 2 Showtime card that will be headlined by Darchinyan, who will challenge Dimitri Kirilov for a junior bantamweight title. Donaire didn't want to fight on the undercard of a fighter he had knocked out.
A fight between Donaire and Hussein Hussein had been planned in Dubai in April but postponed before being canceled.
Shaw told ESPN.com that he had turned the matter over to his attorney but expressed disappointment in the fighters' decisions.
"I'm disappointed that Nonito doesn't want to be with me or his management doesn't think he should be with me, but I cooperated when he wanted to fight in Dubai with a Filipino promoter," Shaw said. "The fact that the fight was postponed for three months and then fell out, I can't take responsibility. And I had gotten him a spot on the Kirilov-Darchinyan card, which was not my card. It is [Kirilov promoter] Cedric Kushner's card."
Kirkland (22-0, 19 KOs), a 24-year-old from Austin, Texas, had become a staple of Shaw's "ShoBox" cards on Showtime before making a tremendous splash by scoring a first-round knockout of Eromosele Albert in his May 17 HBO debut.
Kirkland was very unhappy that he was paid only $50,000 for a featured HBO fight and with the way Shaw treated him before the fight, Dunkin said.
"I think I've done a tremendous job for James Kirkland and the team," Shaw said. "I've had him on Showtime and HBO."
Shaw said he had been working on another HBO fight for him on Oct. 4.
Dunkin said he was talking to promoters about signing the fighters. If there are no legal issues, Top Rank has expressed interest in Donaire, Dunkin said.
Flyweight titlist Donaire, junior middleweight Kirkland fire promoter
Two of boxing's brightest young stars, flyweight titleholder Nonito Donaire and rising junior middleweight prospect James Kirkland, have severed ties with promoter Gary Shaw because they claim he breached their promotional contracts, manager Cameron Dunkin told ESPN.com.
Donaire declared his free agency last week while Kirkland, co-managed with Dunkin by attorney Michael Miller, fired Shaw this week.
Both fighters sent the New Jersey-based promoter legal letters informing him that they had terminated their relationship because he was behind on the number of fights he owed them and had failed to properly disclose revenue from previous fights.
"[Shaw] was behind on fights for both of them and they were not staying busy," Dunkin said. "One is a world champion and one is a very hot prospect and they need to fight. We really need to get these kids somewhere to keep them more active. They both wanted to fight and they were both unhappy."
According to the letter Miller sent Shaw on Kirkland's behalf, which was obtained by ESPN.com, Kirkland signed a promotional agreement with Gary Shaw Productions on Feb. 27, 2006.
Under the contract, Shaw "was to provide James Kirkland with a minimum of five bouts per year for each of the first two contract years," Miller wrote in the letter. "In fact, GSP did not do so; for the second contract year it provided only three bouts. This had the effect of impairing Mr. Kirkland's career. This was brought to your attention by my letter of March 10, 2008. Absolutely no steps were taken to cure.
"We also point out that GSP is in violation of the Muhammad Ali Act in that it has provided no revenue statements to Mr. Kirkland as required by the Act and under your own contract. Please be advised that as a result of these breaches and actions Mr. Kirkland hereby terminates the contract."
Dunkin said a similar letter was sent to Shaw on Donaire's behalf.
Donaire (19-0-1, 12 KOs) won a 112-pound world title via crushing fifth-round knockout of Vic Darchinyan on July 7, 2007, and has fought just once since, an eighth-round TKO of Luis Maldonado in a Dec. 1 title defense.
The 25-year-old Filipino, who is based in California, signed with Shaw to get a shot at Darchinyan, whom he also promotes. Dunkin said the issues with Shaw came to a head when he was being considered for an Aug. 2 Showtime card that will be headlined by Darchinyan, who will challenge Dimitri Kirilov for a junior bantamweight title. Donaire didn't want to fight on the undercard of a fighter he had knocked out.
A fight between Donaire and Hussein Hussein had been planned in Dubai in April but postponed before being canceled.
Shaw told ESPN.com that he had turned the matter over to his attorney but expressed disappointment in the fighters' decisions.
"I'm disappointed that Nonito doesn't want to be with me or his management doesn't think he should be with me, but I cooperated when he wanted to fight in Dubai with a Filipino promoter," Shaw said. "The fact that the fight was postponed for three months and then fell out, I can't take responsibility. And I had gotten him a spot on the Kirilov-Darchinyan card, which was not my card. It is [Kirilov promoter] Cedric Kushner's card."
Kirkland (22-0, 19 KOs), a 24-year-old from Austin, Texas, had become a staple of Shaw's "ShoBox" cards on Showtime before making a tremendous splash by scoring a first-round knockout of Eromosele Albert in his May 17 HBO debut.
Kirkland was very unhappy that he was paid only $50,000 for a featured HBO fight and with the way Shaw treated him before the fight, Dunkin said.
"I think I've done a tremendous job for James Kirkland and the team," Shaw said. "I've had him on Showtime and HBO."
Shaw said he had been working on another HBO fight for him on Oct. 4.
Dunkin said he was talking to promoters about signing the fighters. If there are no legal issues, Top Rank has expressed interest in Donaire, Dunkin said.
HOLLYWOOD, Fla. -- Middleweight Giovanni Lorenzo, despite 26 previous professional fights and an undefeated record, had never been tested against a serious opponent.
That was the job of Raul Marquez, a veteran former junior middleweight titleholder and 1992 U.S. Olympian.
Lorenzo failed the test.
Despite suffering a badly cut right eye in the 10th round, Marquez, 37, outpunched Lorenzo to win a unanimous decision in the title elimination bout Saturday night at the Hard Rock Live arena.
The victory earned Marquez (41-3-1, 29 KOs) a shot against beltholder Arthur Abraham, who faced Edison Miranda in a nontitle rematch in the main event.
All three judges scored the fight for Marquez, 114-113. ESPN.com had it 116-111 for Marquez.
The bout would have been a draw on all three cards but referee Jorge Alonso docked Lorenzo a point for head butting Marquez late in the 10th round, a round that Lorenzo (26-1, 18 KOs) appeared to win easily.
"Absolutely, the point deduction was justified. He couldn't hurt me with punches so he started head butting me to try to take me off my game," Marquez said. "I was stronger, better prepared and determined to win."
After a standout amateur career, during which Lorenzo, 27, represented the Dominican Republic in the 2000 Olympics, his pro career had moved slowly. He had yet to face a notable opponent, although he steadily moved up the sanctioning organization rankings.
But finally, he and his handlers, who could have pressed for an immediate mandatory against Abraham, allowed the Abraham-Miranda rematch to take place while Lorenzo faced Marquez in an elimination fight.
Lorenzo, who had stopped his previous eight opponents, knew he needed a test before stepping up to face Abraham. It turned out to be a much stiffer one than he anticipated.
Marquez, the first southpaw Lorenzo had ever faced, is now 6-0-1 run since being stopped by former middleweight champion Jermain Taylor in 2004 and a two-year layoff that followed.
Now he's back in a title fight.
"I am always learning and now I have a shot a world title (opportunity) and I think I deserve it," Marquez said. "I am a warrior. I am with (Warriors Boxing promoter) Leon Margules. That's why they signed me. Everyone knows that I come to fight. You saw him. He tried some dirty tactics, head butting and holding. But I come to give the people what they want to see, a fight. I am moving on to better and bigger things."
By the third round, Lorenzo had already bruised the cut-prone Marquez under both eyes. But Marquez continued to stalk forward and land shots.
In the fifth round Marquez, seemingly tired of chasing Lorenzo around the ring, stopped and stood in the middle of the canvas and motioned for Lorenzo to come to him and fight.
By the middle rounds, Marquez appeared in control.
"That was my game plan," he said. "We couldn't get to him faster, though, and I didn't look my best, but styles make fights. I had correct sparring and was ready for him. But he's young, very hungry, he's awkward and I thought dirty at times. But that's boxing. I did what I had to do. I think I took over in the middle rounds. I could see he was wearing down. He's never been more than 8 rounds."
Marquez continued to keep the pressure on Lorenzo, who began to pick up the pace in a hard-hitting eighth round during which men were rocked.
Lorenzo opened the cut over Marquez's right eye in the 10th, but lost the critical point later in the round.
They both came out swinging in the 11th as blood continued to flow from Marquez's eye. But he caught Lorenzo with a hard right hand that staggered him just before the end of the round.
Lorenzo was on the move in the 12th, trying to stay away, but Marquez continued to walk him down and fire.
That was the job of Raul Marquez, a veteran former junior middleweight titleholder and 1992 U.S. Olympian.
Lorenzo failed the test.
Despite suffering a badly cut right eye in the 10th round, Marquez, 37, outpunched Lorenzo to win a unanimous decision in the title elimination bout Saturday night at the Hard Rock Live arena.
The victory earned Marquez (41-3-1, 29 KOs) a shot against beltholder Arthur Abraham, who faced Edison Miranda in a nontitle rematch in the main event.
All three judges scored the fight for Marquez, 114-113. ESPN.com had it 116-111 for Marquez.
The bout would have been a draw on all three cards but referee Jorge Alonso docked Lorenzo a point for head butting Marquez late in the 10th round, a round that Lorenzo (26-1, 18 KOs) appeared to win easily.
"Absolutely, the point deduction was justified. He couldn't hurt me with punches so he started head butting me to try to take me off my game," Marquez said. "I was stronger, better prepared and determined to win."
After a standout amateur career, during which Lorenzo, 27, represented the Dominican Republic in the 2000 Olympics, his pro career had moved slowly. He had yet to face a notable opponent, although he steadily moved up the sanctioning organization rankings.
But finally, he and his handlers, who could have pressed for an immediate mandatory against Abraham, allowed the Abraham-Miranda rematch to take place while Lorenzo faced Marquez in an elimination fight.
Lorenzo, who had stopped his previous eight opponents, knew he needed a test before stepping up to face Abraham. It turned out to be a much stiffer one than he anticipated.
Marquez, the first southpaw Lorenzo had ever faced, is now 6-0-1 run since being stopped by former middleweight champion Jermain Taylor in 2004 and a two-year layoff that followed.
Now he's back in a title fight.
"I am always learning and now I have a shot a world title (opportunity) and I think I deserve it," Marquez said. "I am a warrior. I am with (Warriors Boxing promoter) Leon Margules. That's why they signed me. Everyone knows that I come to fight. You saw him. He tried some dirty tactics, head butting and holding. But I come to give the people what they want to see, a fight. I am moving on to better and bigger things."
By the third round, Lorenzo had already bruised the cut-prone Marquez under both eyes. But Marquez continued to stalk forward and land shots.
In the fifth round Marquez, seemingly tired of chasing Lorenzo around the ring, stopped and stood in the middle of the canvas and motioned for Lorenzo to come to him and fight.
By the middle rounds, Marquez appeared in control.
"That was my game plan," he said. "We couldn't get to him faster, though, and I didn't look my best, but styles make fights. I had correct sparring and was ready for him. But he's young, very hungry, he's awkward and I thought dirty at times. But that's boxing. I did what I had to do. I think I took over in the middle rounds. I could see he was wearing down. He's never been more than 8 rounds."
Marquez continued to keep the pressure on Lorenzo, who began to pick up the pace in a hard-hitting eighth round during which men were rocked.
Lorenzo opened the cut over Marquez's right eye in the 10th, but lost the critical point later in the round.
They both came out swinging in the 11th as blood continued to flow from Marquez's eye. But he caught Lorenzo with a hard right hand that staggered him just before the end of the round.
Lorenzo was on the move in the 12th, trying to stay away, but Marquez continued to walk him down and fire.
Arthur Abraham Could Face Suspension in America
By Rick Reeno
The American debut of Arthur Abraham has been smeared with an ugly display of bad sportsmanship. As MaxBoxing/BoxingScene.com reported last night, after Edison Miranda was dropped for the third time and the fight was officially waved off by the referee, Arthur's brother, Alexander Abraham, who is an unbeaten junior middleweight, jumped in the ring and kicked Miranda while he down on the floor and being treated by the ringside doctor.
As previously reported, both the ringside doctor and pro boxer Randall Bailey came to Miranda's aid. One observer told BoxingScene that Alexander also kicked the doctor. Bailey was restrained before things really got out of hand.
Before Alexander was able to get away, he was grabbed by security and escorted outside of the arena. While we weren't able to fully confirm earlier, we have officially received confirmation that Alexander was arrested by the Seminole Tribal Police and then turned over to the Broward County Sheriffs and taken to a local jail where he was awaiting bail on Saturday night. At the present we have not confirmed if the bail was paid.
Another item we reported was a possible fine of $100,000 being dropped on Arthur for his brother's attack. Tim Smith reported in his latest ESPN column that Arthur was indeed fined 100K by the Seminole Tribal Boxing Commission for his brother's cheapshot on a prone Miranda.
MaxBoxing/BoxingScene.com has since learned that if Arthur does not pay the $100K, he could face a possible suspension that would prevent him from fighting in the United States. He would stay suspended until the fine was paid in full.
By Rick Reeno
The American debut of Arthur Abraham has been smeared with an ugly display of bad sportsmanship. As MaxBoxing/BoxingScene.com reported last night, after Edison Miranda was dropped for the third time and the fight was officially waved off by the referee, Arthur's brother, Alexander Abraham, who is an unbeaten junior middleweight, jumped in the ring and kicked Miranda while he down on the floor and being treated by the ringside doctor.
As previously reported, both the ringside doctor and pro boxer Randall Bailey came to Miranda's aid. One observer told BoxingScene that Alexander also kicked the doctor. Bailey was restrained before things really got out of hand.
Before Alexander was able to get away, he was grabbed by security and escorted outside of the arena. While we weren't able to fully confirm earlier, we have officially received confirmation that Alexander was arrested by the Seminole Tribal Police and then turned over to the Broward County Sheriffs and taken to a local jail where he was awaiting bail on Saturday night. At the present we have not confirmed if the bail was paid.
Another item we reported was a possible fine of $100,000 being dropped on Arthur for his brother's attack. Tim Smith reported in his latest ESPN column that Arthur was indeed fined 100K by the Seminole Tribal Boxing Commission for his brother's cheapshot on a prone Miranda.
MaxBoxing/BoxingScene.com has since learned that if Arthur does not pay the $100K, he could face a possible suspension that would prevent him from fighting in the United States. He would stay suspended until the fine was paid in full.
Kelly Pavlik To Skip The Abraham vs. Miranda Rematch
By Mark Vester
WBC/WBO middleweight champ Kelly Pavlik will not be at ringside at the Hard Rock in Hollywood, Florida, as previously planned, to watch the rematch between Arthur Abraham and Edison Miranda. Miranda planned to confront Pavlik at ringside to try and stir up some interest in a rematch with the two of them.
The Cleveland Gladiators announced that Pavlik will be on hand for tonight's game in Clevaland at the Quicken Loans Arena in Ohio as the honorary coin toss captain for the Gladiators season finale, which the league has dubbed as the "Battle of the Buckeye State." Pavlik will join Gladiators President and CEO Bernie Kosar at midfield for the pre-game coin toss
By Mark Vester
WBC/WBO middleweight champ Kelly Pavlik will not be at ringside at the Hard Rock in Hollywood, Florida, as previously planned, to watch the rematch between Arthur Abraham and Edison Miranda. Miranda planned to confront Pavlik at ringside to try and stir up some interest in a rematch with the two of them.
The Cleveland Gladiators announced that Pavlik will be on hand for tonight's game in Clevaland at the Quicken Loans Arena in Ohio as the honorary coin toss captain for the Gladiators season finale, which the league has dubbed as the "Battle of the Buckeye State." Pavlik will join Gladiators President and CEO Bernie Kosar at midfield for the pre-game coin toss
Team Sauerland statement on Alexander Abraham:
Contrary to other reports, Alexander Abraham did not violently attack Edison Miranda or any member of his team following the knockout victory of King Arthur Abraham this weekend. The brother of the IBF middleweight champion was detained in a casino nearby to the arena after the fight due to the disturbance of an event. Early on Sunday morning (local time), he was set free for an administration fee of 100 U.S Dollars without any further sanctions. The accusations levelled at him – that he had attacked Edison Miranda or a member of his team – have proven to be absolutely unfounded. “I did not violently attack Miranda or any of his team,” said Alexander Abraham. “It was completely the other way around – our team was attacked by Miranda’s people with chairs.” The reports which had been spreading around US internet websites that Arthur Abraham has been ordered to pay a fine of 100,000 US Dollars are false. The champion and his team will return to Germany on Monday morning without leaving any unresolved legal wrangles behind.
Contrary to other reports, Alexander Abraham did not violently attack Edison Miranda or any member of his team following the knockout victory of King Arthur Abraham this weekend. The brother of the IBF middleweight champion was detained in a casino nearby to the arena after the fight due to the disturbance of an event. Early on Sunday morning (local time), he was set free for an administration fee of 100 U.S Dollars without any further sanctions. The accusations levelled at him – that he had attacked Edison Miranda or a member of his team – have proven to be absolutely unfounded. “I did not violently attack Miranda or any of his team,” said Alexander Abraham. “It was completely the other way around – our team was attacked by Miranda’s people with chairs.” The reports which had been spreading around US internet websites that Arthur Abraham has been ordered to pay a fine of 100,000 US Dollars are false. The champion and his team will return to Germany on Monday morning without leaving any unresolved legal wrangles behind.
damn that's hella fucked up if that's true about Abraham's brother. Kicking a man when he's down is not cool at all. And say what you will about Miranda's trash talking, but win or lose he's always respectful when the fights over. He's like Mayorga in that regard that his trash talking is mostly for show and mostly for his fans.
Pavlik-Abraham - The Super Fight That Has To Happen!
06.08 - by James Slater: "King" Arthur Abraham solidified his formidable fighting prowess with last night's 4th round destruction of Edison "Pantera" Miranda. Not only did the German silence Miranda by taking him out in a quicker fashion than anyone predicted beforehand, Abraham also stopped the dangerous Colombian much quicker than anyone else ever has..
In fact, only rival middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik has also stopped Miranda, but it took "The Ghost" seven rounds to do the job. Make no mistake, in despatching Miranda inside four rounds Arthur Abraham scored one helluva impressive victory. The reigning IBF middleweight champion also set himself up as the most logical, the most attractive and the most serious opponent for Pavlik's next foe. Quite simply, this fight has to happen!
Not only would we see a middleweight title fight unification, we would also see a fight between the two absolute best at 160 pounds. Abraham has shown he is unafraid to box inside the U.S, and Pavlik has said his desire is to unify the belts at middleweight in order to make his mark in history. So what's the problem - Pavlik and Abraham will surely meet next, right?
Well, it seems another opponent has earned a shot at Abraham. In upsetting the previously unbeaten Giovanni Lorenzo on last night's under card, Raul Marquez has apparently set himself up as the next challenger for Abraham. According to Fight News, Leon Margules said Abraham-Marquez will happen in either October or November. How will fight fans take to this news?
Sure, Marquez is a good fighter and he probably deserves a chance down the road, but who really wants to see this fight? Abraham and Pavlik are so totally destined to meet the clash should not be made to wait for anything. With Joe Calzaghe clearly not interested in facing Pavlik, the other most eye-catching super fight for "The Ghost" is a bout with Abraham. Instead, we will reportedly have to see the IBF middleweight champ see off Marquez and also put up with the spectacle of the WBC/WBO 160 pound boss seeing off a so-so challenger such as Marco Antonio Rubio. Who wants this!?
Make Abraham-Pavlik NOW. The fight cannot get any bigger, the fight should not be put on any backburner and the fight should not be jeopardised by the unlikely (but not altogether impossible) chance of either fighter losing before they get the chance to fight.
It is undeniably clear - in today's middleweight division Arthur Abraham Vs. Kelly Pavlik is the only super fight available
06.08 - by James Slater: "King" Arthur Abraham solidified his formidable fighting prowess with last night's 4th round destruction of Edison "Pantera" Miranda. Not only did the German silence Miranda by taking him out in a quicker fashion than anyone predicted beforehand, Abraham also stopped the dangerous Colombian much quicker than anyone else ever has..
In fact, only rival middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik has also stopped Miranda, but it took "The Ghost" seven rounds to do the job. Make no mistake, in despatching Miranda inside four rounds Arthur Abraham scored one helluva impressive victory. The reigning IBF middleweight champion also set himself up as the most logical, the most attractive and the most serious opponent for Pavlik's next foe. Quite simply, this fight has to happen!
Not only would we see a middleweight title fight unification, we would also see a fight between the two absolute best at 160 pounds. Abraham has shown he is unafraid to box inside the U.S, and Pavlik has said his desire is to unify the belts at middleweight in order to make his mark in history. So what's the problem - Pavlik and Abraham will surely meet next, right?
Well, it seems another opponent has earned a shot at Abraham. In upsetting the previously unbeaten Giovanni Lorenzo on last night's under card, Raul Marquez has apparently set himself up as the next challenger for Abraham. According to Fight News, Leon Margules said Abraham-Marquez will happen in either October or November. How will fight fans take to this news?
Sure, Marquez is a good fighter and he probably deserves a chance down the road, but who really wants to see this fight? Abraham and Pavlik are so totally destined to meet the clash should not be made to wait for anything. With Joe Calzaghe clearly not interested in facing Pavlik, the other most eye-catching super fight for "The Ghost" is a bout with Abraham. Instead, we will reportedly have to see the IBF middleweight champ see off Marquez and also put up with the spectacle of the WBC/WBO 160 pound boss seeing off a so-so challenger such as Marco Antonio Rubio. Who wants this!?
Make Abraham-Pavlik NOW. The fight cannot get any bigger, the fight should not be put on any backburner and the fight should not be jeopardised by the unlikely (but not altogether impossible) chance of either fighter losing before they get the chance to fight.
It is undeniably clear - in today's middleweight division Arthur Abraham Vs. Kelly Pavlik is the only super fight available
This is from someone that was ringside:
Here's what happened:
He was the first in the ring after the stoppage (eventhough you are supposed to the the doctors first enter after a stoppage). After a quick congratulations to his brother he got in Miranda's face (who was still on the canvas) and started screaming at him and kicking his legs. He was telling him he was going to kill him and then he ran over to the Pantera Team and started saying he will kill all of you! Well, in Miranda's team there were 2 other professional fighters and one bad ass corner guy. Plus a UFC fighter was also there who is a friend. Luckily security was able to hold these guys back from a huge fight in the ring. Alex was taken by security out of the ring and stadium. He ran from the police who wanted to question him. He was found by some of the team and a fight started in the casino with Alex and security. He was finally brought down by police and arrested.
Abraham is being fined $100,000 for all of this since it was part of his team and is responsible for his actions.
Here's what happened:
He was the first in the ring after the stoppage (eventhough you are supposed to the the doctors first enter after a stoppage). After a quick congratulations to his brother he got in Miranda's face (who was still on the canvas) and started screaming at him and kicking his legs. He was telling him he was going to kill him and then he ran over to the Pantera Team and started saying he will kill all of you! Well, in Miranda's team there were 2 other professional fighters and one bad ass corner guy. Plus a UFC fighter was also there who is a friend. Luckily security was able to hold these guys back from a huge fight in the ring. Alex was taken by security out of the ring and stadium. He ran from the police who wanted to question him. He was found by some of the team and a fight started in the casino with Alex and security. He was finally brought down by police and arrested.
Abraham is being fined $100,000 for all of this since it was part of his team and is responsible for his actions.
Nate Campbell: "I Saw Alex Abraham Kick at Miranda"
By Rick Reeno
There has been some controversy stirring over a incident that took place in the aftermath of Arthur Abraham's fourth-round knockout of Edison Miranda on Saturday night at the Hard Rock in Hollywood, Florida.
Based on several ringside accounts, we reported last night that Alexander Abraham, Arthur's brother, ran into the ring and kicked Miranda while he was still down and being treated by the ringside physician. A brief scuffle took place with Randall Bailey, and others, being quickly restrained as they attempting to come to Miranda's aid.
Alexander, an undefeated junior middleweight, was later arrested by the Seminole Tribal Police and then turned over to the Broward County Sheriffs and taken to a local jail. The Broward County Sheriffs' office informed MaxBoxing/BoxingScene.com that he was charged with "resisting officers/obstruction" and released on Sunday morning, around 11am, after bail was posted in the amount of $100.00 dollars.
Sauerland Event [Abraham's promoters] would issue a statement on Sunday afternoon, disputing the allegations against Alexander with respect to him kicking Miranda while he was down. They admitted that Alexander was taken into custody by police officers and released the next morning after the $100 dollar bail amount was posted. Sauerland did not reveal any details as to why Alexander was arrested or the sequence of events that led up to the arrest.
Alexander said the initial story was twisted, claiming that Miranda's entourage attacked him with chairs.
“I did not violently attack Miranda or any of his team,” said Alexander Abraham. “It was completely the other way around – our team was attacked by Miranda’s people with chairs.”
IBF/WBO/WBA lightweight champion Nate Campbell is furious that Alexander is denying the incident ever took place. Campbell was sitting ringside with his wife and several friends when he clearly saw Alexander jump in the ring and execute a kick at Miranda. He says the incident began when Alexander hit the ring and began to talk trash to Miranda while he was still down and being treated by the doctor.
"That is a lie [Alexander's side of the story]. That is a lie. Me and my wife were there and we were stunned. It was low class of him to run in the ring like and say anything to Miranda while he was down. If anyone should of been able to say something to Miranda, it should have been Arthur Abraham - he's the one who fought, not his brother. It was real bitch move," Campbell said.
"Me, my wife, Terry Trekas [promoter], we were all sitting ringside. I saw Alex kick at him. I don't know where the kick landed, but he did kick at him. If I was any closer, I would have beat him up. Miranda said some things before the fight, nobody is perfect. But what Alex did is very, very reprehensible. Randall Bailey tried to come out to his defense and so did his other cornermen. They were held back, but they allowed Alex to kick at Miranda. Edison Miranda has always given his best. Low blows happen. What Alex did to Miranda - he should go to jail for that."
There has been some discussion that Arthur may get hit with a fine in the amount of $100,000 for the incident with his brother. Some sources have told me, ESPN and other outlets, that a fine has already been issued by the Florida State Athletic Commission. Sauerland has denied this, stating that a fine was never issued to Arthur.
BoxingScene contacted the Florida State Athletic Commission on Sunday afternoon to clear up the details on the fine. Due to an "ongoing investigation" into the allegations, a spokesperson on behalf of the commission was unable to comment until the details have been sorted. Should Arthur receive a hefty fine for the actions of his brother? Campbell says yes.
"I'm a fight fan, I like fights. We as fighters, as champions, should be held accountable for the assholes we bring with us to the ring. I don't have a problem with Arthur. He did his job, but after doing your job and your corner does something like that, it's reprehensible," Campbell said.
By Rick Reeno
There has been some controversy stirring over a incident that took place in the aftermath of Arthur Abraham's fourth-round knockout of Edison Miranda on Saturday night at the Hard Rock in Hollywood, Florida.
Based on several ringside accounts, we reported last night that Alexander Abraham, Arthur's brother, ran into the ring and kicked Miranda while he was still down and being treated by the ringside physician. A brief scuffle took place with Randall Bailey, and others, being quickly restrained as they attempting to come to Miranda's aid.
Alexander, an undefeated junior middleweight, was later arrested by the Seminole Tribal Police and then turned over to the Broward County Sheriffs and taken to a local jail. The Broward County Sheriffs' office informed MaxBoxing/BoxingScene.com that he was charged with "resisting officers/obstruction" and released on Sunday morning, around 11am, after bail was posted in the amount of $100.00 dollars.
Sauerland Event [Abraham's promoters] would issue a statement on Sunday afternoon, disputing the allegations against Alexander with respect to him kicking Miranda while he was down. They admitted that Alexander was taken into custody by police officers and released the next morning after the $100 dollar bail amount was posted. Sauerland did not reveal any details as to why Alexander was arrested or the sequence of events that led up to the arrest.
Alexander said the initial story was twisted, claiming that Miranda's entourage attacked him with chairs.
“I did not violently attack Miranda or any of his team,” said Alexander Abraham. “It was completely the other way around – our team was attacked by Miranda’s people with chairs.”
IBF/WBO/WBA lightweight champion Nate Campbell is furious that Alexander is denying the incident ever took place. Campbell was sitting ringside with his wife and several friends when he clearly saw Alexander jump in the ring and execute a kick at Miranda. He says the incident began when Alexander hit the ring and began to talk trash to Miranda while he was still down and being treated by the doctor.
"That is a lie [Alexander's side of the story]. That is a lie. Me and my wife were there and we were stunned. It was low class of him to run in the ring like and say anything to Miranda while he was down. If anyone should of been able to say something to Miranda, it should have been Arthur Abraham - he's the one who fought, not his brother. It was real bitch move," Campbell said.
"Me, my wife, Terry Trekas [promoter], we were all sitting ringside. I saw Alex kick at him. I don't know where the kick landed, but he did kick at him. If I was any closer, I would have beat him up. Miranda said some things before the fight, nobody is perfect. But what Alex did is very, very reprehensible. Randall Bailey tried to come out to his defense and so did his other cornermen. They were held back, but they allowed Alex to kick at Miranda. Edison Miranda has always given his best. Low blows happen. What Alex did to Miranda - he should go to jail for that."
There has been some discussion that Arthur may get hit with a fine in the amount of $100,000 for the incident with his brother. Some sources have told me, ESPN and other outlets, that a fine has already been issued by the Florida State Athletic Commission. Sauerland has denied this, stating that a fine was never issued to Arthur.
BoxingScene contacted the Florida State Athletic Commission on Sunday afternoon to clear up the details on the fine. Due to an "ongoing investigation" into the allegations, a spokesperson on behalf of the commission was unable to comment until the details have been sorted. Should Arthur receive a hefty fine for the actions of his brother? Campbell says yes.
"I'm a fight fan, I like fights. We as fighters, as champions, should be held accountable for the assholes we bring with us to the ring. I don't have a problem with Arthur. He did his job, but after doing your job and your corner does something like that, it's reprehensible," Campbell said.
Jason Estrada to Arreola: It’s Time to Prove Who Belongs!
23.06.08 - By Peter Mark Heintzelman, Photo by Peter Mark Heintzelman - After referee, Randy Phillips and the Tennessee Boxing Commission DQ’d Chazz Witherspoon Saturday night on HBO, at three minutes of the third round, Chris Arreola was declared a controversial winner of their heavyweight bout scheduled for twelve, leaving the American heavyweight scene in complete disarray.
Despite the pre-fight hype, and the American boxing fan’s lust for a Red-White-and Blue contender, the only color evident in the United States heavyweight scene is grey.
So, Arreola remains undefeated, and looking for vengeance against a stink decision that requires him to prove, again in some fans’ eyes, that he is “the New” real contender for the heavyweight championship title..
Watching the fight on the tube, from his home in Providence, Rhode Island, 27 year old Jason “Big Six" Estrada’s eyes were glued to the screen, anticipating signs of the competition he faces in the American heavyweight scene.
“I got more satisfaction drinking a glass of fruit flavored water, than watching Arreola beat Chazz by such a controversial decision. Arreola proved nothing!"
EastSideBoxing interviewed Estrada the day after the fight, as to his reaction to the fight, and where it left Arreola, and Estrada, in the American heavyweight mix.
EastSideBoxing: Jason, who watched the HBO Saturday Fights with you, when Chris Arreola beat Chazz Witherspoon by a DQ in the third round, and what was your reaction to the judge’s decision?
Estrada: I was sitting there with my Dad and two uncles watching the fights on a high definition 50 inch screen. It was a shame about the decision, I mean the way it ended, since I believe Chazz should have been given a minute to clear his head. If he didn't show anything after that minute, then it could've been stopped. If you look at Chris after the fight, he actually talked the referee into stopping the fight.
EastSideBoxing: During the first three rounds of the Arreola-Witherspoon fight, what did you see in Arreola?
Estrada: Honestly, I wasn't impressed. They say he's been boxing since he was nine years old. I just don't see it. His form needs a lot of work. He's wide with his punches. His head is in the middle, a foot in front of his hands. His feet are wide and not under him. They say he can punch and I can't. Put us in the ring together and watch what happens. I'll expose him. He thinks Chazz has the "Oh Shit".....ok. Wait til he see's my jab.
EastSideBoxing: Who do you see in America as heavyweight contenders, and are you ready for the challenge?
Estrada: Me ... That’s who I see. I'll fight anybody. No exceptions. Sign the contract. I don't duck or turn down anybody. Me and Povetkin still gotta get it on too. It was supposed to happen in 2003 and then again in 2004 but due to certain situations, it never happened. He was brought along sweet in the pro's, and is in line for a title shot, so I'm off his radar. But let him get that title, if he can, and I'll catch him later. Right now I want anybody ranked ahead of me on Boxrec, or anybody else for that matter.
EastSideBoxing: Would you like a chance at bat against Arreola, and why do you deserve that fight?
Estrada: Absolutely, that’s what I'm doing this interview for. All this talk about Chris versus Tua...please. Tua ain't trying to fight anybody anymore. Anyway that wouldn't happen until the end of the year. All I've ever fought are guys with 500 records or above. Look at the guys I smashed this year alone. I like to say I'm New and Improved, and I will show it, by eliminating ALL of the competition.
How about me and Chris on HBO in August?
Call Jimmy Burchfield, of Classic Entertainment and Sports. We can make it happen.
EastSideBoxing: How would you describe Arreola’s fight style, and what do you vision your strategy against him would be?
Estrada: Strong clubfighter....that’s it. I won't say my exact strategy, but I will promise everybody that I'll steal his heart and feed it to him. He'll swear the referee is cheating and hitting him, by the time I get done with him!
EastSideBoxing: If Arreola were in your face right now, what would you likely say to him?
Estrada: Listen you gotta prove you belong where the media has placed you. Deep down inside when you're alone you gotta wonder, "Am I really that good?" This is your chance to find out with a former Olympian with over 300 amateur fights. Are you ready for a real test? Or are you just gonna keep taking on ready-made opponents?
EastSideBoxing: If Arreola doesn’t dodge your challenge to fight him, what would you predict the outcome to be?
Estrada: I've been learning how to sit down more on my punches, and I believe his punches will never land on me. I'll stop him or he'll quit. Maybe I bust him up, and the corner rescues him. Either way, he won't see the tenth round.
EastSideBoxing: Anything else you would like to say to the heavyweight contenders out there?
Estrada: Times up. I got the best chin out there and the fastest hands. Anybody who thinks they can stop me, is welcomed to call my promoter.
I won't be sidetracked anymore on my way to the heavyweight championship.
"Chris, Its time to prove who belongs."
EastSideBoxing: Jason, any other comments you would like to make?
Estrada: Also, thanks Peter and Eastsideboxing, for allowing me this interview and for my fans keep the faith. I won't let you down
23.06.08 - By Peter Mark Heintzelman, Photo by Peter Mark Heintzelman - After referee, Randy Phillips and the Tennessee Boxing Commission DQ’d Chazz Witherspoon Saturday night on HBO, at three minutes of the third round, Chris Arreola was declared a controversial winner of their heavyweight bout scheduled for twelve, leaving the American heavyweight scene in complete disarray.
Despite the pre-fight hype, and the American boxing fan’s lust for a Red-White-and Blue contender, the only color evident in the United States heavyweight scene is grey.
So, Arreola remains undefeated, and looking for vengeance against a stink decision that requires him to prove, again in some fans’ eyes, that he is “the New” real contender for the heavyweight championship title..
Watching the fight on the tube, from his home in Providence, Rhode Island, 27 year old Jason “Big Six" Estrada’s eyes were glued to the screen, anticipating signs of the competition he faces in the American heavyweight scene.
“I got more satisfaction drinking a glass of fruit flavored water, than watching Arreola beat Chazz by such a controversial decision. Arreola proved nothing!"
EastSideBoxing interviewed Estrada the day after the fight, as to his reaction to the fight, and where it left Arreola, and Estrada, in the American heavyweight mix.
EastSideBoxing: Jason, who watched the HBO Saturday Fights with you, when Chris Arreola beat Chazz Witherspoon by a DQ in the third round, and what was your reaction to the judge’s decision?
Estrada: I was sitting there with my Dad and two uncles watching the fights on a high definition 50 inch screen. It was a shame about the decision, I mean the way it ended, since I believe Chazz should have been given a minute to clear his head. If he didn't show anything after that minute, then it could've been stopped. If you look at Chris after the fight, he actually talked the referee into stopping the fight.
EastSideBoxing: During the first three rounds of the Arreola-Witherspoon fight, what did you see in Arreola?
Estrada: Honestly, I wasn't impressed. They say he's been boxing since he was nine years old. I just don't see it. His form needs a lot of work. He's wide with his punches. His head is in the middle, a foot in front of his hands. His feet are wide and not under him. They say he can punch and I can't. Put us in the ring together and watch what happens. I'll expose him. He thinks Chazz has the "Oh Shit".....ok. Wait til he see's my jab.
EastSideBoxing: Who do you see in America as heavyweight contenders, and are you ready for the challenge?
Estrada: Me ... That’s who I see. I'll fight anybody. No exceptions. Sign the contract. I don't duck or turn down anybody. Me and Povetkin still gotta get it on too. It was supposed to happen in 2003 and then again in 2004 but due to certain situations, it never happened. He was brought along sweet in the pro's, and is in line for a title shot, so I'm off his radar. But let him get that title, if he can, and I'll catch him later. Right now I want anybody ranked ahead of me on Boxrec, or anybody else for that matter.
EastSideBoxing: Would you like a chance at bat against Arreola, and why do you deserve that fight?
Estrada: Absolutely, that’s what I'm doing this interview for. All this talk about Chris versus Tua...please. Tua ain't trying to fight anybody anymore. Anyway that wouldn't happen until the end of the year. All I've ever fought are guys with 500 records or above. Look at the guys I smashed this year alone. I like to say I'm New and Improved, and I will show it, by eliminating ALL of the competition.
How about me and Chris on HBO in August?
Call Jimmy Burchfield, of Classic Entertainment and Sports. We can make it happen.
EastSideBoxing: How would you describe Arreola’s fight style, and what do you vision your strategy against him would be?
Estrada: Strong clubfighter....that’s it. I won't say my exact strategy, but I will promise everybody that I'll steal his heart and feed it to him. He'll swear the referee is cheating and hitting him, by the time I get done with him!
EastSideBoxing: If Arreola were in your face right now, what would you likely say to him?
Estrada: Listen you gotta prove you belong where the media has placed you. Deep down inside when you're alone you gotta wonder, "Am I really that good?" This is your chance to find out with a former Olympian with over 300 amateur fights. Are you ready for a real test? Or are you just gonna keep taking on ready-made opponents?
EastSideBoxing: If Arreola doesn’t dodge your challenge to fight him, what would you predict the outcome to be?
Estrada: I've been learning how to sit down more on my punches, and I believe his punches will never land on me. I'll stop him or he'll quit. Maybe I bust him up, and the corner rescues him. Either way, he won't see the tenth round.
EastSideBoxing: Anything else you would like to say to the heavyweight contenders out there?
Estrada: Times up. I got the best chin out there and the fastest hands. Anybody who thinks they can stop me, is welcomed to call my promoter.
I won't be sidetracked anymore on my way to the heavyweight championship.
"Chris, Its time to prove who belongs."
EastSideBoxing: Jason, any other comments you would like to make?
Estrada: Also, thanks Peter and Eastsideboxing, for allowing me this interview and for my fans keep the faith. I won't let you down
What if Mosley had remained a Welterweight
By Geoffrey Ciani: As Raul Marquez became the first fighter to beat undefeated prospect Giovanni Lorenzo, I could not help being reminded of his bout with “Sugar” Shane Mosley over five years earlier. Not because the bout between Marquez and Mosley was anything memorable, in fact, the bout was rather disappointing, having lasted just three rounds before being halted.
It was ultimately declared a no contest due to a couple of accidental head butts which caused some pretty nasty cuts around Raul’s eyes. What made this one noteworthy is that it was Mosley’s 154 pound debut. As I watched Marquez giving his post-fight interview I could not help but wonder, What if Mosley had not made the jump to 154 pounds?
There were two prevailing reasons why Mosley made the jump in weight class: (1) he had just lost back-to-back matches against Vernon Forrest, and (2) he apparently had his eyes set on a big money rematch with Oscar De La Hoya. Of course, Mosley did get the rematch he desired immediately after the disappointing ending with Marquez, so in a way, this helped vindicate his jump in weight. However, when one considers how subsequent events unfolded in Mosley’s career combined with the fact his conqueror Vernon Forrest lost his next two fights against cigarette-smoking Nicaraguan, Ricardo Mayorga, a strong argument can be made that Mosley may have best suited his own interests had he simply remained at welterweight.
Mosley had mixed success in the super welterweight division. After the no contest against Marquez, he was awarded a controversial unanimous decision over De La Hoya. This was followed by back-to-back losses against Winky Wright. The fights with Wright proved to many that Mosley was simply too small to be fighting at 154 pounds. This, by no means takes anything away from Winky, who was an undeniably elite talent. Even still, despite making things more competitive in their return bout, Mosley was never able to consistently penetrate Wright’s defense.
Following the bouts with Wright, Mosley made a return trip to the 147 pound weight class, winning bouts against David Estrada and Jose Luis Cruz, before venturing back north to 154. There, he won back-to-back contests against Fernando Vergas before once again returning to the division he should never have left in the first place. Over all, Mosley posted a record of three wins, two losses, and one no contest during his stint at 154. His biggest win was obviously in the rematch with De La Hoya, and considering the controversy surrounding that bout (which was entirely unwarranted in my view, since I scored the bout 115-113 in favor of Mosley) a strong argument can be made questioning the wisdom of Mosley’s decision to test his skills against the bigger foes.
Meanwhile, the welterweight division unfolded in unpredictable ways after Mosley’s departure. Before Mosley even made his 154 pound debut, his long time nemesis Vernon Forrest was dealt the first loss of his professional career in a shocking KO loss at the hands of the aforementioned Mayorga. Mayorga was again victorious in their rematch, having fought very timidly, which left many wondering if Mosley may have fared better had he taken more chances in his matches with Forrest. The linear title would change hands an additionally four times hereafter.
This begs the question: How would Mosley have fared against the best fighters in the welterweight division during his absence?
Frankly, I think he would have done very well against them. I think he had the speed and skill to outclass Mayorga and the size and strength to overpower Cory Spinks. He was far too intelligent in my view to have been bested by the likes of Zab Judah (whom he was supposed to fight recently, were it not for Judah suffering a hand injury prior to their scheduled showdown), he would have been far too talented for Carlos Baldomir, and I have always maintained that Mosley is one of the few fighters who has the style and skill required to beat someone like Floyd Mayweather Junior. Imagine the type of victories Mosley may have racked up had he never ventured north of the 147 pound limit?
Of course, this is all speculation on my part. Given that Mosley did not remain at 147, we will never know for sure how he would have fared against any of the aforementioned, but I think one can reasonably conclude that there are strong arguments favoring Mosley against any of the fighters who reigned supreme during his welterweight absence. At the very least, few would deny that he would have been competitive against all of the above, if not outright victorious.
Mosley represents the type of fighter who is good for the sport. Rather than minimizing his risk to maximize his purse, he was always ready, if not eager, to take on any and all challenges to prove he was the best. Fighter like Vernon Forrest and Winky Wright were both stuck on the outside looking in before Mosley provided them with an opportunity to showcase their talents on the big stage, and it is a testament to his fighting heart that he demanded immediate rematches following losses with each. This type of fighter is a rarity in this day and age where so much emphasis is placed on keeping an unblemished record, which is a shame, for if this trend continues, Mosley might get short-changed by future historians much in the same way he is often short-changed by his contemporaries. If more fighters followed Mosley’s lead, the sport would be better for
By Geoffrey Ciani: As Raul Marquez became the first fighter to beat undefeated prospect Giovanni Lorenzo, I could not help being reminded of his bout with “Sugar” Shane Mosley over five years earlier. Not because the bout between Marquez and Mosley was anything memorable, in fact, the bout was rather disappointing, having lasted just three rounds before being halted.
It was ultimately declared a no contest due to a couple of accidental head butts which caused some pretty nasty cuts around Raul’s eyes. What made this one noteworthy is that it was Mosley’s 154 pound debut. As I watched Marquez giving his post-fight interview I could not help but wonder, What if Mosley had not made the jump to 154 pounds?
There were two prevailing reasons why Mosley made the jump in weight class: (1) he had just lost back-to-back matches against Vernon Forrest, and (2) he apparently had his eyes set on a big money rematch with Oscar De La Hoya. Of course, Mosley did get the rematch he desired immediately after the disappointing ending with Marquez, so in a way, this helped vindicate his jump in weight. However, when one considers how subsequent events unfolded in Mosley’s career combined with the fact his conqueror Vernon Forrest lost his next two fights against cigarette-smoking Nicaraguan, Ricardo Mayorga, a strong argument can be made that Mosley may have best suited his own interests had he simply remained at welterweight.
Mosley had mixed success in the super welterweight division. After the no contest against Marquez, he was awarded a controversial unanimous decision over De La Hoya. This was followed by back-to-back losses against Winky Wright. The fights with Wright proved to many that Mosley was simply too small to be fighting at 154 pounds. This, by no means takes anything away from Winky, who was an undeniably elite talent. Even still, despite making things more competitive in their return bout, Mosley was never able to consistently penetrate Wright’s defense.
Following the bouts with Wright, Mosley made a return trip to the 147 pound weight class, winning bouts against David Estrada and Jose Luis Cruz, before venturing back north to 154. There, he won back-to-back contests against Fernando Vergas before once again returning to the division he should never have left in the first place. Over all, Mosley posted a record of three wins, two losses, and one no contest during his stint at 154. His biggest win was obviously in the rematch with De La Hoya, and considering the controversy surrounding that bout (which was entirely unwarranted in my view, since I scored the bout 115-113 in favor of Mosley) a strong argument can be made questioning the wisdom of Mosley’s decision to test his skills against the bigger foes.
Meanwhile, the welterweight division unfolded in unpredictable ways after Mosley’s departure. Before Mosley even made his 154 pound debut, his long time nemesis Vernon Forrest was dealt the first loss of his professional career in a shocking KO loss at the hands of the aforementioned Mayorga. Mayorga was again victorious in their rematch, having fought very timidly, which left many wondering if Mosley may have fared better had he taken more chances in his matches with Forrest. The linear title would change hands an additionally four times hereafter.
This begs the question: How would Mosley have fared against the best fighters in the welterweight division during his absence?
Frankly, I think he would have done very well against them. I think he had the speed and skill to outclass Mayorga and the size and strength to overpower Cory Spinks. He was far too intelligent in my view to have been bested by the likes of Zab Judah (whom he was supposed to fight recently, were it not for Judah suffering a hand injury prior to their scheduled showdown), he would have been far too talented for Carlos Baldomir, and I have always maintained that Mosley is one of the few fighters who has the style and skill required to beat someone like Floyd Mayweather Junior. Imagine the type of victories Mosley may have racked up had he never ventured north of the 147 pound limit?
Of course, this is all speculation on my part. Given that Mosley did not remain at 147, we will never know for sure how he would have fared against any of the aforementioned, but I think one can reasonably conclude that there are strong arguments favoring Mosley against any of the fighters who reigned supreme during his welterweight absence. At the very least, few would deny that he would have been competitive against all of the above, if not outright victorious.
Mosley represents the type of fighter who is good for the sport. Rather than minimizing his risk to maximize his purse, he was always ready, if not eager, to take on any and all challenges to prove he was the best. Fighter like Vernon Forrest and Winky Wright were both stuck on the outside looking in before Mosley provided them with an opportunity to showcase their talents on the big stage, and it is a testament to his fighting heart that he demanded immediate rematches following losses with each. This type of fighter is a rarity in this day and age where so much emphasis is placed on keeping an unblemished record, which is a shame, for if this trend continues, Mosley might get short-changed by future historians much in the same way he is often short-changed by his contemporaries. If more fighters followed Mosley’s lead, the sport would be better for
Zahir Raheem Faces Ali Funeka in IBF Eliminator - 7/5
By Ronnie Nathanielsz
Well known international promoter and boxing manager Branco Milenkovic of South Africa has pulled off a boxing coup with two International Boxing Federation title eliminators that will take place in East London on July 5.
In the main event lightweight Ali "Rush Hour" Funeka will battle highly-rated Zahir "Z Man" Raheem, the US Olympian who gave Mexican boxing legend Erik “El Terrible” Morales a clinic some years ago.
In the supporting main event South African flyweight Muruti Mthalane will clash with Australian Hussein Hussein whose title fight against reigning IBF champion Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire which was scheduled to take place in Dubai last April was canceled.
Milenkovic received substantial support from the Eastern Cape government which helped save the boxing extravaganza according to boxing writer Mesuli Zifo. He reported that Milenkovic who was in Manila for the last WBC Convention and officials from the Department of Sport were scouting for a suitable venue for the fights.
Realizing the value of sports and the emerging reality of sports tourism the head of the Departnment of Sport Bubele Mfenya was quoted as saying “this is a wonderful opportunity to put the province on the world boxing map. It is our objective to market this province as a sporting destination ahead of the 2010 Soccer World Cup and this event presents us with that goal.”
Milenkovic who has regularly staged fights involving boxers from the Philippines said it was the biggest event he had ever been involved in. Milenkovic said he wanted to “make this event the biggest sporting extravaganza in the African continent.”
Funeka has a record of 29-1-2 with 24 knockouts including a second round KO over Filipino Dexter Delada in a battle for the vacant WBC International lightweight title and in a title defense last September 23 scored a fourth round TKO over another fighter from the Rex “Wakee” Salud stable, JR Sollano.
The 31 year old Raheem, has a record of 29-2 with 17 knockouts and will be coming off a first round KO over Ricardo Dominguez last January 4. Raheem lost a split decision to Acelino Freitas in a battle for the vacant WBO title while his biggest win was a twelve round unanimous decision over Mexico ’s Erik Morales in a clash for the vacant WBC International lightweight title. It was a tune-up fight for Morales in preparation for his rematch with Filipino ring icon Manny Pacquiao in which Morales lost by a tenth round TKO
By Ronnie Nathanielsz
Well known international promoter and boxing manager Branco Milenkovic of South Africa has pulled off a boxing coup with two International Boxing Federation title eliminators that will take place in East London on July 5.
In the main event lightweight Ali "Rush Hour" Funeka will battle highly-rated Zahir "Z Man" Raheem, the US Olympian who gave Mexican boxing legend Erik “El Terrible” Morales a clinic some years ago.
In the supporting main event South African flyweight Muruti Mthalane will clash with Australian Hussein Hussein whose title fight against reigning IBF champion Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire which was scheduled to take place in Dubai last April was canceled.
Milenkovic received substantial support from the Eastern Cape government which helped save the boxing extravaganza according to boxing writer Mesuli Zifo. He reported that Milenkovic who was in Manila for the last WBC Convention and officials from the Department of Sport were scouting for a suitable venue for the fights.
Realizing the value of sports and the emerging reality of sports tourism the head of the Departnment of Sport Bubele Mfenya was quoted as saying “this is a wonderful opportunity to put the province on the world boxing map. It is our objective to market this province as a sporting destination ahead of the 2010 Soccer World Cup and this event presents us with that goal.”
Milenkovic who has regularly staged fights involving boxers from the Philippines said it was the biggest event he had ever been involved in. Milenkovic said he wanted to “make this event the biggest sporting extravaganza in the African continent.”
Funeka has a record of 29-1-2 with 24 knockouts including a second round KO over Filipino Dexter Delada in a battle for the vacant WBC International lightweight title and in a title defense last September 23 scored a fourth round TKO over another fighter from the Rex “Wakee” Salud stable, JR Sollano.
The 31 year old Raheem, has a record of 29-2 with 17 knockouts and will be coming off a first round KO over Ricardo Dominguez last January 4. Raheem lost a split decision to Acelino Freitas in a battle for the vacant WBO title while his biggest win was a twelve round unanimous decision over Mexico ’s Erik Morales in a clash for the vacant WBC International lightweight title. It was a tune-up fight for Morales in preparation for his rematch with Filipino ring icon Manny Pacquiao in which Morales lost by a tenth round TKO
Manny Pacquiao Having No Weight Issues For Diaz
By Ronnie Nathanielsz
Unlike his last couple of fights when he struggled to make the 130 pound limit, World Boxing Council super featherweight champion Manny Pacquiao has no such problems entering the final week of his title fight against WBC lightweight champion David Diaz.
In the official one-week weigh-in mandated by the WBC, Pacquiao tipped the scales at 139 pounds which means he will have to shed off a mere four pounds in time for Saturday’s official weigh-in at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.
With the scorchingly high temperatures in Los Angeles which rose to 106 degrees, shedding weight isn’t a problem but it did affect Pacquiao’s regular jogging schedule last Friday which was called off.
The Filipino boxing icon wanted to make up for it on Sunday but celebrated trainer Roach advised Pacquiao to have a full day’s rest on Sunday.
Pacquiao spent time getting a haircut and preparing for the drive to Las Vegas on Tuesday after the final west coast news conference at the west end of the historic Santa Monica Pier above the Pacific Ocean, while Diaz and his small entourage took a flight from Chicago to LA Sunday.
Diaz is expected to arrive at Mandalay Bay at 11:00 a.m. on June 24 while Pacquiao’s convoy is scheduled to roll into the front lobby some thirty minutes later.
Media workouts by both Pacquiao and Diaz will be held at the Events Center at noon. The final press conference will be held at the Media Center on Wednesday.
Diaz told Viva Sports/Manila Standard Today that he will be at his very best on fight night. He revealed that there were a few things he has to work on while training until Thursday and will “ take it from there. Once Thursday hits in I am going to be peaking at the right time and I’ll be in good shape.”
Roach has targeted a fast start by Pacquiao and a knockout by around the eighth or ninth round while Diaz has made it clear he would “definitely like the fight to go the distance” because he feels he is in great physical condition and could wear down Pacquiao with a strong finish in the so-called championship rounds.
By Ronnie Nathanielsz
Unlike his last couple of fights when he struggled to make the 130 pound limit, World Boxing Council super featherweight champion Manny Pacquiao has no such problems entering the final week of his title fight against WBC lightweight champion David Diaz.
In the official one-week weigh-in mandated by the WBC, Pacquiao tipped the scales at 139 pounds which means he will have to shed off a mere four pounds in time for Saturday’s official weigh-in at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.
With the scorchingly high temperatures in Los Angeles which rose to 106 degrees, shedding weight isn’t a problem but it did affect Pacquiao’s regular jogging schedule last Friday which was called off.
The Filipino boxing icon wanted to make up for it on Sunday but celebrated trainer Roach advised Pacquiao to have a full day’s rest on Sunday.
Pacquiao spent time getting a haircut and preparing for the drive to Las Vegas on Tuesday after the final west coast news conference at the west end of the historic Santa Monica Pier above the Pacific Ocean, while Diaz and his small entourage took a flight from Chicago to LA Sunday.
Diaz is expected to arrive at Mandalay Bay at 11:00 a.m. on June 24 while Pacquiao’s convoy is scheduled to roll into the front lobby some thirty minutes later.
Media workouts by both Pacquiao and Diaz will be held at the Events Center at noon. The final press conference will be held at the Media Center on Wednesday.
Diaz told Viva Sports/Manila Standard Today that he will be at his very best on fight night. He revealed that there were a few things he has to work on while training until Thursday and will “ take it from there. Once Thursday hits in I am going to be peaking at the right time and I’ll be in good shape.”
Roach has targeted a fast start by Pacquiao and a knockout by around the eighth or ninth round while Diaz has made it clear he would “definitely like the fight to go the distance” because he feels he is in great physical condition and could wear down Pacquiao with a strong finish in the so-called championship rounds.