Current Events

Hasegawa vs Burgos, Tajbert vs Aoh Catching Steam

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 17:07:00 -0700

Source: Jhonny Gonzalez | boxingscene.com

The announced doubleheader for November 26 at the Nihon Gaishi Hall in Nagoya, Japan is catching a lot steam from boxing fans in Japan and Mexico. The card will feature two important WBC title fights. The contests are tough to call as the boxers match up very well in each fight.

In first of the doubleheader, WBC super featherweight champion Vitali Tajbert (20-1, 6KOs) will defend his title against Japan's Takahiro Aoh (19-2, 9KOs). Aoh is a former WBC featherweight champion. He won the title in a rematch with Oscar Larios in March 2009 and lost the belt in his first defense against Elio Rojas in July of the same year.

The main event will be a battle for the vacant WBC featherweight title. The belt was declared vacant after Rojas suffered an injury that required surgery and lengthy recovery period. Former WBC bantamweight champion Hozumi Hasegawa (28-3, 12KOs) will rise by two weight divisions to face Juan Carlos Burgos (25-0, 18KOs).

It is Hasegawa first bout since losing his title by knockout to Fernando Montiel in April. Hasegawa suffered a broken jaw in the fight. Burgos is up against the biggest and most experienced test in his undefeated career.

FIBA Asia U-18: RP five rips Iraq, makes q'finals

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 17:06:00 -0700

Source: gmanews.tv

When push comes to shove, expect Kiefer Ravena to take over for the Philippine Youth basketball team.

Ravena banged in a game-high 23 points, besides posting two rebounds, four assists, a block and a steal in leading the Filipinos to an inspiring 68-59 triumph over Iraq in the FIBA Asia U-18 Championship at the 22nd May court in Sana’a, Yemen.

In winning their third in five games, the Filipinos have secured an outright quarterfinals berth. The team, which is supported by Nokia Philippines, has gained at least a tie for third place in its group.

Ravena drew inspiration from his parents, who flew to Yemen to support him and the rest of the Nationals. The second-generation player was the only double-digit scorer for the Pinoy quintet, but the rest of the squad did a little bit of everything to make the win possible.

Roldan Sara, while going scoreless in 19 minutes of play, racked up five of his team’s 10 steals to typify the Nationals’ resiliency on the defensive end.

The Filipinos struggled from the field and shot a relatively low 38-percent (25-of-65) shooting. Even their three-point shooting went sour as they made only three of 15 attempts.

Ravena made three of four free throws to break a 52-all stand-off in the early part of the fourth period.

A basket by Kyle Neypes touched off a 10-2 run by the 4:43 mark of the fourth period, giving the Nationals their first sizable lead, 65-54.

The Filipinos were never seriously threatened from there.

The Philippines’ win was their second straight in the second round. The team coached by two-time Philippine Basketball Association champion mentor Eric Altamirano earlier won over Japan, 75-57, Sunday. - KY/Rey Joble, GMANews.TV

RP wins trophy in Homeless World Cup

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 17:04:00 -0700

Source: abs-cbnNEWS.com

MANILA, Philippines – Team Jeepney Philippines posted its best finish in three years in the recently concluded Homeless World Cup in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The RP team ended its Homeless World Cup bid in 25th place out of 64 countries

It also took home the Host Cup Trophy, one of the 6 trophies at stake in the tournament, after defeating Norway 4-3 at the Copacabana Beach.

The Philippine team is composed of twins Hammid and Abdula Pasion (Laguna), brothers Mark and Lexter Maravilla (Quezon), Michael Quinlat and Tonie Mark Arinal (Talisay City), Revect Lagardo (Manila), and Leopoldo Aragon (Bacolod).

Norway scored the first goal before Leopoldo, Abdula and Toniemark scored goals to propel the Philippines to lead 3-1 at halftime.

Norway scored on a penalty but Leopoldo made a goal again.

The Homeless World Cup aims to raise awareness on the plight of the homeless and poor through football.

The event, which was held from September 19 to 26, also aims to generate change in the lives of those trapped in extreme circumstances.

The Philippines lost its opening matches to eventual champion Brazil (2-9) and Chile (0-9).

But it was able to post wins over South Korea (14-4), Argentina (5-4) and Germany (8-6).

In 2009, the RP Team finished in 29th place out of 48 countries in Milan, Italy. It was the 37th team out of 48 nations in Melbourne, Australia in 2008.

The Homeless World Cup project in the Philippines works with homeless footballers aged at least 16.

Urban Opportunities for Change, the group behind Team Jeepney Philippines, offers to establish every year a squad that represents the Filipinos who are landless and poor.

The group said in a statement that it aims to form a people’s team—“one that the masses can identify with and hope for, one whose struggles mirror their own, a team who can overcome, and by overcoming, inspire others to overcome.”

FIBA Asia U-18: Pinoy cagers dump Japan

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Sun, 26 Sep 2010 16:51:00 -0700

Source: gmanews.tv

The Philippines vented its ire on Japan and scored a whopping 75-57 triumph in the FIBA Asia U-18 Championship at the 22nd May court in Sana’a, Yemen.

Second-generation players Kiefer Ravena and Raphael Banal led the Filipino youngsters' onslaught as they combined for 32 points in leading the team to victory.

Ravena, son of former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Rookie of the Year and now Talk N Text assistant coach Bong Ravena, finished with 18 points to pace the Nationals, who are supported by Nokia Philippines.

Banal, son of Alaska Milk assistant coach Joel Banal, added 14 points while Chris Tolomia and Roldan Sara added nine points apiece in a display of balanced firepower.

The Filipinos shot a steady 53 percent (31-of-58) from the field and a high 45 percent (9-of-20) from the three-point area. They also had seven steals, dished out 26 assists, and committed only nine turnovers to dominate their Japanese counterparts.

The Filipinos outscored the Japanese, 28-13, in the second period to turn a close game into a rout. The Philippines led, 44-28, at the half, and was never seriously threatened from there.

The closest the Japanese could come was within 12 at 49-61 on Takaya Sasama’s basket, 5:10 remaining, but Jeron Teng and Ravena conspired to keep their rivals at bay and put the Filipinos back on the winning track.

The Philippines lost to host Yemen, 69-76, on Saturday.

The Filipinos last won the Asian Youth championship in 1982 in Manila when the squad was backstopped by Hector Calma, the late Alfie Almario and Teddy Alfarero, Jong Uichico and Louie Brill.

American mentor Ron Jacobs, the same coach who handled the fabled Northern Consolidated Corporation, was the head bench tactician then. - KY/Rey Joble, GMANews.TV

Tim Coleman vs Patrick Lopez Set For Oct. 1 on ShoBox

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 20:42:00 -0700

Source: boxingscene.com

NEW YORK – Two fighters coming off huge wins and riding impressive winning streaks will meet in an all-important stepping-stone matchup in a 12-round junior welterweight main event on ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, Oct. 1, LIVE on SHOWTIME® (11:45 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

Current USBA light welterweight champion, Tim “The Pit Bull” Coleman (17-1-1, 4 KOs) of Baltimore, Md., takes on two-time Venezuelan Olympian Patrick “El Elegante” Lopez (20-2, 12 KOs) at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, Calif. In the co-feature, undefeated Archie Ray Marquez (9-0, 1 ND, 6 KOs) of Albuquerque, N.M., faces off against Juan “Chago” Santiago (13-4-1, 8 KOs) of Denver, Colo., in an eight-round lightweight bout.

Coleman, 26, is coming off a 12-round decision win against former world title challenger and hometown favorite Mike Arnaoutis in New York in his last fight on Dec. 3, 2009. He has won three fights in a row since his only loss in October, 2008. The steady southpaw Lopez, 33, was impressive in his third-round TKO win against previously undefeated prospect Prenice Brewer in his last fight on Aug. 6.

“Coleman-Lopez is a good boxer-puncher matchup, and it's coming at the right time,” SHOWTIME expert analyst Steve Farhood said. “Coleman is on the rise. This fight has real meaning as a crossroads matchup and the winner is going to be in commanding position to take the next step.”

The fifth-year pro Coleman is currently ranked No. 15 in the IBF and No. 18 in the WBC at 140 pounds and will be making the first defense of his USBA light welterweight title. He has been working with famed trainer Roger Mayweather in Las Vegas.

Coleman was reluctant to lavish praise on Lopez. He said, “I guess [Lopez] is a strong guy. He went to the Olympics twice. I don’t know; I feel like if I lived in Venezuela, I would have [gone] to the Olympics twice, too.”

Coleman’s only loss came on ShoBox on Oct. 3, 2008, against undefeated prospect James De la Rosa.

Lopez, also a five-year pro, honed his skills in the amateur ranks where he had 280 fights. He competed in the 2000 and 2004 Olympics and won a gold medal at the Pan American Games in 2003, beating Lamont Peterson in the quarterfinals. He is currently ranked No. 10 in the WBA at 140 pounds.

Lopez, who currently resides in Londonderry, N.H., has won five fights in a row since his last loss in April, 2009.

“I saw Tim Coleman fight Mike Arnaoutis,” Lopez’s manager and trainer Julio Pena said. “I have a lot of respect for every fighter. I know that he’s being trained by Roger Mayweather, which is pretty good. It makes me feel like I really want to work harder for this one because of all the respect we have for the Mayweather people. But at the end of the night, it’s not the trainers – it’s the fighters.”

The co-feature pits the unbeaten Marquez against Santiago in a match that Farhood says he’s looking forward to. “Marquez-Santiago is also a boxer-puncher type match,” he said. “Santiago proved his toughness on ShoBox against Vernon Paris, and Marquez will be looking to do what he does so well --moving and changing angles. This fight will be a very interesting contrast in styles.”

ShoBox fans last got a look at Marquez on Jan. 29, 2010, in his hometown of Albuquerque where he won an eight-round unanimous decision against Derrick Campos in a dominating performance and his biggest win to date.

Known for speed and versatility, Marquez always comes into fights in top condition and like Lopez, has a strong amateur background.

“I’d say I’m a boxer-puncher,” Marquez said. “Whatever they bring, I can adjust to it. I can jab and move around, use a lot of angles, and sometimes I go forward. It all depends what the fighter brings to me.”

Marquez, 22, is also familiar with the surroundings at Chumash as he fought there on Dec. 4, 2009, winning a six-round majority decision against Andres Ledesma.

Santiago, 25, has fought 12 times in his home state of Colorado and has some nice upset wins against the likes of previously undefeated Washington, D.C. prospect Ty Barnett (first round) and a seven-round unanimous decision against previously undefeated Jose Morales.

In his last fight on June 26, in Sheridan, Colo., he knocked out Donaldo Holguin. In his previous loss on ShoBox on May 14, he lost an eight-round split decision against Vernon Paris at Chumash.

The event is promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, LLC.

Paul Williams Blasts Floyd Mayweather: He Won't Fight Me

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 20:40:00 -0700

Source: Michael Marley | boxingscene.com

Paul Williams, in his 11th year in the professional boxing ring, is widely acknowledged as the world's third best fighter, pound for pound.

He's 6-3, freakishly tall and he's fighting WBC middleweight champion Sergio Martinez, also a power punching lefthander, in a Nov. 20 Atlantic City (HBO, not PPV) rematch simply because neither could persuade any other opponent to step up.

Their first fight was wild and wooly. Martinez got floored in the opening round and then the Argentinian decked the coltish PWill.

They traded hurt, they traded pain the rest of the way and, when it was over, Williams was tabbed the winner on two cards (119-110 and 115-113) while the third judge saw it a 114-114 draw.

This natural rematch comes a week after the Antonio Margarito-Manny Pacquiao HBO PPV bout and it figures to be equally engaging.

But, aside from Martinez, foes steer clear of Williams.

"They call him the 'Punisher' but Paul is the one who gets punished because these other guys won't fight him," manager-trainer George Peterson said at a New York press conference Thursday.

At age 29, with 40 pro bouts behind him, Williams' patience is growing thin.

"I don't think Floyd Mayweather will fight me anytime," Williams said. "Manny Pacquiao, he might do it, he might step up but not Floyd. I guess Floyd won't fight me because I don't have a vagina."

That X-rated shot, obviously, is a reference to the Baby Mama drama which briefly sent Mayweather to jail and led to domestic battery charges in Las Vegas.

Williams and Peterson don't think that Al Haymon's status as adviser to them, and to Mayweather, is what keeps the fighters apart.

"I was in the barbershop in (Washington) D.C., the other day and the guys were talking about it. They respect Floyd's skills like I do but they were saying they know he won't ever fight me," Williams said.

"If Floyd went to Al and said, "Hey, I want to fight Paul Williams, what can Al do? But Floyd is not going to ever say that. Pacquiao, he fights bigger guys, he's different than Mayweather so maybe I will get to fight him."

Like many others, Williams thinks Mayweather's obsession is being undefeated.

"Floyd ranks himself with Ray Robinson, with Joe Louis, all these guys..but all those great guys, they all lost sometime. Mayweather won't take a hard fight, he won't take the chance of losing."

Peterson's assessment is similar.

"Pacquiao, he loves to fight. Mayweather is his own manager, he's a smart businessman. Paul is not old enough for Floyd to fight. Floyd likes to wait until a guy is old. Pacquiao is more gutsy than Floyd is," Peterson said.

Williams notes that the structure of boxing is that the best often don't fight the best.

"I can make 147 (pounds) for Floyd or for Manny if I have to and I would," Williams said. "But this isn't like baseball or football where the best teams are mandated to play each other. In boxing, these guys don't want to give me the shot."

Peterson said their frustration is that Williams is not yet a PPV attraction and that he hasn't been able to show his considerable skills against the upper echelon.

"If Paul could fight about every months, he would become a real monster in boxing. Then the fans would see how sensational he really can be.

"I think Paul, at this stage, is like Marvin Hagler was at one point. He is vicious, he strikes like a cobra but guys run away from fighting him like they did with Hagler," Peterson said.

With Pacman being almost 32 and Mayweather turning 34 next year, Williams feels he will get to the Number One P4P position without them.

But, instead of proclaiming himself as a ring great, he wants to prove it.

I"d like to be the best welterweight and the best middleweight. I'd like to be up there with Ray Leonard, with Tommy Hearns but I can't get there if I don't get the opportunity."

Williams understands the system.

"If the fans demand it, then HBO will hear them," Williams said. "Maybe HBO can make the top guys fight me. If it's demanded by the public, then maybe. But, when these guys fight and then take the microphone after they fight, who do they mention?

"You never hear them say my name, do you?"

Williams record is 39-1 with 27 KOs while Martinez is 45-2-2 with 24 knockouts.

Margarito trainer: Pacquiao KO'd in 11th

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 20:38:00 -0700

Source: gmanews.tv

Robert Garcia, Antonio Margarito's soft spoken trainer, answered back and predicted the Mexican former two-time world champion would beat the hell out of Manny Pacquiao once they finally meet inside the ring on November 13 at the Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

And how he sees the 12-round fight?

"11th round knockout," said Garcia, who also trains former International Boxing Federation (IBF) flyweight champion Nonito Donaire Jr.

And then he emphasized how Margarito will win it.

"This isn't going to be just a win for Margarito. This is going to be a f….king beat down we'll put on him. A big-time beating is what we got for Manny Pacquiao," said Garcia.

His outburst was in reaction to an eighth round knockout trainer Freddie Roach predicted Pacquiao is going to administer against the controversial 32-year- old Mexican from Tijuana.

Actually, it was Margarito who first reacted negatively to the remark made by Roach, known for exchanging sarcastic comments in the past with the likes of Oscar De La Hoya and Floyd Mayweather Sr.

"What does he see, he crippled or something?" Margarito responded during a recent appearance with Roach and Garcia in HBO's face-off with Max Kellerman.

Quick to the draw, Roach replied, "I saw your last two fights."

Of course, those two matches were among the worst in Margarito's pro career.

His last outing against Roberto Garcia was a mediocre 10-round unanimous decision four months ago.

Prior to that was Margarito’s notorious fight with Sugar Shane Mosley, the World Boxing Organization (WBO) title bout where the so-called 'Tijuana Tornado' was caught with loaded hand wraps shortly before the match.

Margarito lost it by a ninth round technical knockout. Shortly after, he was suspended from fighting for one year and his license revoked by the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC).

But Garcia believes all of these are behind Margarito, whom he describes as 'training like a monster right now.’

Slowly but surely, Margarito's trainer said they're beginning to unlock the mystery of how to beat Pacquiao, the world's top pound-for-pound fighter who has not lost a fight since suffering a unanimous decision against Mexican great Erik Morales in 2005.

"We've been watching a lot of Manny's fights and know exactly how to attack him," Garcia said. "Right now, Manny is considered the 'Man', but he’s also kind of overlooking us." – JVP, GMANews.TV

RP Youth routs Saudis in FIBA Asia U18 tourney

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 20:37:00 -0700

Source: gmanews.tv

Jeron Teng and Kiefer Ravena teamed up to lead the Nokia-Philippines Under-18 team to an 86-68 rout of Saudi Arabia in the FIBA Asia Under-18 Championships on Wednesday night at the 22nd May court in Sana’a, Yemen.

Teng scored 20 points while Ravena, who helped the Ateneo Blue Eaglets complete a rare three-peat in the UAAP, added 11 markers as the RP Youth team joined title favorite China, which scored an 82-48 thrashing of Syria, for the Group C lead.

The Nationals had a slim 22-21 lead after the first period but piled up nine straight points at the start of the second quarter while its zone and pressing defense neutralized the Saudis.

The Filipinos were never seriously threatened after taking a 47-36 halftime lead.

“We were able to neutralize them with our zone. We were able to bother them with our pressing defense," said RP Youth coach Eric Altamirano, whose team guns for a second win against Syria at 5 p.m. on Thursday (11 p.m. Manila time).

Teng and Ravena also combined for 11 of the Nationals’ game-high 13 steals while Jeth Troy Rosario finished with 10 points.

The team made five of 17 three-pointers for a decent 29 percent clip.

Altamirano hopes the youthful players can fully adjust to Yemen’s conditions when they face Syria, since the desert climate is proving to be a challenge for his wards.

“It was tough since we are still adjusting to the air. The Saudis also played a tough game," said Altamirano, whose team seeks to improve the Philippines’ seventh-place finish in 2008.

Mathna Almarwani paced the Saudis with 17 points and five rebounds while Marzouq Almuwalled tallied 12 markers and five boards.

Though the Nationals were beaten off the boards (39-27), they played more as a team with 19 assists compared to 11 by the Saudis. The Filipinos also shot better from the field, 36-of-63, for a 57 percent shooting clip.

The tournament offers three tickets to the 2011 FIBA Under-19 World Championship in Latvia. – KY/JVP, GMANews.TV

GSP: Floyd Mayweather afraid of losing to Manny Pacquiao

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 20:36:00 -0700

Source: Dennis Gasgonia, abs-cbnNEWS.com

MANILA, Philippine – Even visiting Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) superstar Georges St.-Pierre believes that Floyd Mayweather Jr. does not want to fight 7-division champion Manny Pacquiao.

“Knowing that Pacquiao is a big, big threat, he doesn’t want to have that fight because he might have a lot to lose,” St.-Pierre said.

The UFC welterweight champion from Canada met the press at the ABS-CBN compound on Thursday.

St.-Pierre, known as "GSP", believes that Pacquiao has the upper hand against the unbeaten American boxer, which is why Mayweather refuses the fight.

“I’ve seen Mayweather’s last fight, he got rocked by [Shane] Mosley. I think Pacquiao is really untouchable right now. If they fight like tomorrow, I think Pacquiao would win,” he said.

Although he admitted understanding Mayweather’s reason for shying away from the Filipino, he said the American boxer owes that match to his fans.

“I understand in a way that he doesn’t wanna have that fight. But I think he should do it for the fans, the fans want to see that fight,” said St.-Pierre.

Several boxing observers have said that Mayweather doesn't want to fight Pacquiao. (Click here for related story.)

Pacquiao is presently preparing for a super welterweight fight against Mexico’s Antonio Margarito on November 13.

Mayweather, on the other hand, is facing legal problems for allegedly beating up his former girlfriend Josie Harris. He could face more than 30 years in jail if convicted.

The Pacquiao-Mayweather fight was negotiated twice in the past, but it did not push through because of irreconcilable demands.

GSP is in the country to promote the sport of mixed martial arts (MMA) among Filipinos.

GSP likes Manila

St.-Pierre's Manila visit, coordinated by ABS-CBN's Balls TV Channel, is part of UFC's effort to promote the sport of MMA in Asia.

“It’s a long flight but I made it. It’s perfect,” he told the media after his arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

“It’s my first time and I already like it. Weather is great and people are very nice,” he added.

His Manila tour will culminate with a meet-and-greet with local fans at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City on Saturday, where he will hold an open training to show how he typically prepares for an MMA fight.

For more UFC action, watch SkyCable TV’s Balls Channel and visit www.abs-cbnNEWS.com/ufc.

UFC sets sights on Asia

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 20:34:00 -0700

Source: Dennis Gasgonia, abs-cbnNEWS.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Manila visit of mixed martial arts (MMA) superstar Georges St.-Pierre is part of Ultimate Fighting Championship’s (UFC) plan to widen its fan base in Asia and promote the fast-rising sport of MMA.

Mark Fischer, UFC managing director for Asia, said that they are currently studying several options on helping Filipino and other Asian MMA fighters get involved in UFC.

“One of them is certainly taking some of the best [fighters] in bringing them over the [United] States and even maybe having some exchange. The second one would be possibly in the future, establishing some sort of UFC Asia League,” said Fischer.

Another opportunity they are looking into is the establishment of several MMA camps in Asia, which will compete against each other.

“So there’s many interesting possibilities, we’re really just scratching the surface with the sport with the UFC brand here. And we’re very fortunate really and thankful we have partners like ABS-CBN that’s really helping us get off the mark here in the Philippines,” said Fischer.

He added that once they successfully expand the exposure of MMA in Asia, they may be able to hold fights here.

UFC is currently being aired via ABS-CBN’s Balls Channel and Studio 23.

Balls Channel earlier worked on bringing to the country UFC fighters like Filipino-American Brandon Vera and MMA legend Chuck Liddell to promote the UFC brand.

This time around, it is St.-Pierre’s turn to tour Manila to promote MMA.

“He is the most recognizable UFC fighter in the world at this time, and we are very happy that he is here with us to share some time with his Filipino fans,” said Balls Channel head Jojo Neri-Estacio.

Balls Channel is the home of the biggest sporting events in the word. The channel successfully aired all 64 matches of the 2010 FIFA World Cup as well as the French Open, the US Open, The PGA Championship and the UEFA Champions League. This October, Balls will broadcast the full coverage of the 2010 Ryder Cup.

For more UFC action, watch SkyCable TV’s Balls Channel and visit www.abs-cbnNEWS.com/ufc

Marquez-Katsidis: Both Expect a War on November 27

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 23:56:00 -0700

Source: boxingscene.com

LOS ANGELES- Boxing fans will have plenty to be thankful for Saturday, Nov. 27 when Golden Boy Promotions celebrates Thanksgiving Day weekend with a 12-round championship battle between two of boxing's most exciting warriors -- Ring Magazine, World Boxing Association (WBA) and World Boxing Organization (WBO) Lightweight World Champion Juan Manuel "Dinamita" Marquez and WBO Interim Lightweight World Champion Michael "The Great" Katsidis -- at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

"Warriors: Marquez vs. Katsidis," a 12-round World Championship bout, will be presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Marquez Boxing Promotions, and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate and DeWalt Tools. The bout will be televised live on HBO's World Championship Boxing beginning at 9:45 pm ET / 6:45 pm PT.

Tickets for "Warriors: Marquez vs. Katsidis," priced at $350, $250, $150, $100 and $50, go on sale Saturday, Sept. 25 at 10:00 am PT. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets will also be available for purchase at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

"Given the styles of both fighters, Marquez vs. Katsidis has Fight of the Year written all over it," said Oscar de la Hoya, president of Golden Boy Promotions. "Marquez looked better than ever against Juan Diaz in his last fight and Katsidis is in top form coming off of a big knockout win over Kevin Mitchell; so boxing fans will be in for a treat on November 27."

"Michael Katsidis is a very aggressive fighter and that's the style I like to fight against the most," said Marquez. "Styles make fights and my style and his together will give fans a great show in November, but I'm not about to give my titles away."

"What more can you say about Juan Manuel Marquez," said Katsidis. "He's one of the best in the world pound-for-pound, and a future Hall of Famer. I'm ready for the challenge though, and I don't think he'll be able to hold me off for 12 rounds. I'm coming for those belts."

"The Thanksgiving holiday weekend is noted for its great lineup of sports action and family get-togethers. This fights card fits in perfectly," said Kery Davis, senior vice president of programming HBO Sports. "We are excited to be presenting it to our subscribers."

A three-division World Champion who currently holds the Ring Magazine, WBA and WBO belts at 135 pounds, Mexico City's Juan Manuel Marquez (51-5-1, 37 KOs) has firmly established his legacy as one of the greatest Mexican fighters of all-time. While that would be enough for some, the 37-year-old "Dinamita" is far from finished, and considering that his resume over the last three years includes wins over the likes of Marco Antonio "Barreta" Barrera, Juan "Baby Bull" Diaz (twice) and Joel "Cepillo" Casamayor, there's no question there's plenty of gas left in this legendary fighter's tank.

The hard-charging pride of Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia, Michael "The Great" Katsidis (27-2, 22 KOs) is a thrill-a-minute warrior who has thrilled fans around the globe with his "go-for-broke" fighting style. A two-time, and current, holder of the interim WBO lightweight crown, the 30-year-old is currently sporting a four-fight winning streak which includes a stoppage of Jesus "Matador" Chavez, a stirring win over Vicente Escobedo, and a three-round blitz of 31-0 Kevin Mitchell. On November 27, he faces his biggest challenge ever.

Pacquiao's Sparring With Tapia/Medina Starts Tuesday

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 23:54:00 -0700

Source: Ronnie Nathanielsz | boxingscene.com

MANILA, Philippines -- Manny Pacquiao has decided to leave for Baguio only this Sunday, with his training camp to officially open the next day, followed by a sparring session Tuesday.

No reason was given why Pacquiao changed his original plan to proceed to Baguio after the final congressional session of the week late on Wednesday, but American trainer Freddie Roach said he was not the least worried.

“As long as we get there before Sunday as that will be a rest day, the official camp opens on Monday and Tuesday is the first day of sparring,” said Roach.

Pacquiao trained for the third straight day at the Johnny Elorde gym and Roach said he’s impressed by the strength of the pound-for-pound king.

“His power is unbelievable,” said Roach of Pacquiao who will seek an unprecedented eighth title in eight different weight divisions on Nov. 13 against Antonio Margarito at the Dallas Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Roach said he felt Pacquiao’s body shots despite the protective body guard he wore during Wednesday’s training session.

“I feel them even though I wear the pads. They don’t help that much,” he said.

The sparring partners who arrived with Roach—light middleweights Michael Medina and Glen Tapia—said they were eager to spar with Pacquiao and get him into shape for the WBC super welterweight duel with Margarito.

Margarito: Does Roach See Me as Being Crippled?

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 23:52:00 -0700

Source: Chris Robinson | boxingscene.com

In a recent segment of HBO’s Faceoff, Manny Pacquiao and his trainer Freddie Roach sat down with Antonio Margarito and his trainer Robert Garcia. Pacquiao and Margarito fight on November 13th at Cowboys Stadium in Dallas, Texas and despite the fight being nearly two months away the contest is starting to generate a lot of buzz.

Analyst Max Kellerman could be found in the center of table fielding questions to both parties in an attempt to get some lively banter going between the two sides. Kellerman started off by asking Margarito, yet again, if he had any knowledge of the illegal inserts that were found inside of his hand wraps prior to his January 2009 loss to Shane Mosley.

“Thousands of times I have said I don’t know,” a slightly irritated Margarito replied. “I’ll say it again, I had no idea. I never felt anything. Never had the idea I had anything on my hands.”

Earlier this month while on a press tour to promoter their event, Pacquiao claimed that he fully believed Margarito had to have knowledge of what was taking place as trainer Javier Capetillo wrapped Antonio’s hands. Speaking on the issue, Pacquiao decided to take the high road and focus not on the past but instead the future that lies ahead for each man.

“What is my concern is he needs to train hard, I need to train hard and we have to do our best to make people happy. That’s what people want to see. The best fight, right?” Pacquiao would ask Margarito, to which the Tijuana native calmly nodded his head in agreement.

One man who hasn’t held back his feelings towards the contest is Roach, who has been beyond adamant about the many advantages Pacquiao has heading into the fight. Giving his opinion on the outcome between the two men, Roach spoke in his typical blunt fashion.

“I think Manny’s going to knock him out inside of eight rounds.”

The answer drew a grin from Margarito, who has shown a steel of iron throughout his career, with his only TKO loss being the thumping he took at the hands of Mosley at the Staples Center.

“What, does he see me crippled or something?” Margarito would reply.

Not pulling back, Roach paused briefly before dishing out some cold words yet again.

“I saw your last two fights.”

Hearing Roach’s words seemed to set Margarito back slightly as the 32-year old didn’t have a rapid rebuttal for the Massachusetts trainer. Margarito was seen earlier this month in Las Vegas, showing off his abs in an act of supreme confidence, but he seems to realize he is going up against a different kind of talent in Pacquiao.

Martinez’ side denies any involvement with Camp Margarito

Earlier this week I spoke to Garcia about the possibility of middleweight champion Sergio Martinez joining Margarito’s camp to help prepare him for the unorthodox attack of Pacquiao. Garcia confirmed that he is close to Martinez and his people while revealing it would be a strong possibility that the Argentinean would be coming to camp.

An interesting subplot indeed but all seems for not as my colleague Michael Marley reached out to Martinez’ promoter Lou Dibella who firmly stated ‘No way, no how’ does his man end up in the ring with Antonio.

Pavlik vs Vera Likely For Pacquiao-Margarito Card

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 18:22:00 -0700

Source: Michael Marley | boxinscene.com

Top Rank has reached deep into its boxing bullpen for an opponent for former world middleweight champion Kelly "The Ghost" Pavlik in catch-weight (164 pounds) fight underneath the Antonio Margarito-Manny Pacquiao main event Nov. 13 at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Another fighter to have received an offer to face Pavlik is Giovanni Lorenzo, but there are questions as to whether or not he will be ready in time since he fought on September 4 in Germany, losing to Felix Sturm.

Brian Lee Vera, who still gets some mileage out of a shock upset in 2008 of then 15-0 Irish prospect and Manny Steward protege Andy Lee, fills the bill for Bob Arum and his rehabbing of Youngstown hero Pavlik on several fronts.

First, Vera is a tough Texan fighting in the Lone Star State. He was born in "Cowtown," better known to you drugstore cowboy types at Ft. Worth and now lives in Austin.

Second, he is Mexican-American and so adds a bit more ethnic flavor underneath Margarito.

Top Rank looked closely at "Haitian Sensation" Daniel Edouard (23-3-2, 14 KOs) and briefly at New Jersey based Dominican Lorenzo before locking in on Vera.

"We had to do our due diligence on Edouard because we found out he was hospitalized after hius most recent bout in Panama. We spoke to the commission in Panama and they said he was treated for blood pressure problems. We spoke to John Wirt (Roy Jones' Square Ring outfit) and told him we would pass on Edouard, at least for now. John was very nice, very understanding," Arum told me Wednesday afternoon by phone from Las Vegas.

Rumors buzzing around fight circles had Edourard, who fights out of West Palm Beach, having heart issues but those seem to be merely rumors and not medical facts.

Pavlik, trying to rebound from a title loss to Argentina's brawny Sergio Martinez, has a 36-2 pro log, his other loss being to Hall Of Famer Bernard Hopkins.

Vera's pro mark is 17-5 with 11 KOs to his credit. He's lost three of his last four bouts but all have been competitive. He's been beaten by Maksym Bursek in the Ukraine, Isaac Rodrigues in Verona, NY, and also lost to Scotland's Craig McEwan and fellow Texan James Kirkland.

Kirkland, getting ready to fight against after a federal prison stint on gun possession charges, halted Vera in eight rounds.

Box Rec lists Vera at the 49th rated 160 pounder in the world and eighth best in America.

It looks like mariachis will be working overtime at this Margarito-Pacman show.

Vitor Belfort-Yushin Okami Tops UFC 122 in Germany

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 18:21:00 -0700

Source: boxingscene.com

London, England - The Ultimate Fighting Championship® organisation returns to Germany on November 13 when UFC 122 emanates from König-Pilsener-Arena in Oberhausen.

In the high-stakes main event, mixed martial arts legend Vitor ‘the Phenom’ Belfort will face Japanese powerhouse Yushin ‘Thunder’ Okami in a three-round contest to determine who will challenge for the UFC Middleweight Championship in 2011.

UFC 122 is the first UFC event to take place in Germany since the world’s premier combat sports organisation made its mainland Europe debut in Cologne last June.

UFC Managing Director of International Development Marshall Zelaznik said: “We are glad to be coming back to Germany with UFC 122 and to reward our loyal UFC fans in Germany. Both Vitor Belfort and Yushin Okami are one win away from a shot at the UFC Middleweight Title and are coming to Germany with a great deal to win and lose. This is a sporting event with tremendous international significance, and we are delighted to have been able to bring this event to Oberhausen.”

Marek Lieberberg of MLK, the UFC’s promotional partner in Germany, said: “We are excited to bring the world’s most popular combat sport back to Germany, following our great event last summer. Mr Belfort and Mr Okami are two of the greatest martial artists in the world and this is an excellent main event attraction. Vitor holds a black belt in judo as well as jiu-jitsu and has competed as a professional boxer while Yushin is an outstanding martial artist in his own right.”

Tickets for UFC 122 are priced at €225, €145, €85, €65 and €45 and will be available on Monday, September 20 to UFC Fight Club members from Tuesday 21 to UFC and MLK Newsletter subscribers and to the general public from Wednesday 22 September. Tickets will be available from eventim.de, the arena box office and Bundesweite Ticket Hotline: 01805 – 570 000.

Please note tickets are only available to over 18s, and that ID will be checked at the arena on the night.

Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Vitor Belfort, 19-8 a career which began in 1996, has earned his reputation as one of the greats in his sport. The 33-year-old from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, has spent a decade and a half travelling the world and defeating a who’s who of mixed martial arts; ‘The Phenom’ holds wins over the likes of Tank Abbott, Wanderlei Silva, Kazushi Sakuraba, Randy Couture, and Matt Lindland, and he most recently stopped Rich Franklin in just three minutes.

Rightly considered a pioneer of MMA, Belfort believes he is also the future of the 185lbs middleweight division, and knows victory in Germany will put him in striking distance of becoming only the third man to ever win UFC world titles in two different weight divisions.

“It is a joy to go to other parts of the world and fight for fans there,” said Belfort. “I am here to regain my legacy as one of the best fighters in the world. I’ve accomplished so many things in my career, but I am always happy to be in the gym and working on getting better.

“The German fans will see a 100% performance from me against Okami. I am looking for the knockout, I always look for the knockout. I know Okami is the type of guy who can bang a little and also has that judo style, but I am on a mission to be the UFC Champion once again.”

Obe of the most feared fighters in the middleweight division since his UFC debut win over Alan Belcher four years ago, Kanagawa, Japan, native Yushin Okami, 26-5 in MMA, is finally in a position to force his way into title contention. ‘Thunder’ already holds victories over Mike Swick, Evan Tanner, Dean Lister and most recently Mark Munoz, and he knows a win over an icon like Belfort will cement his status at the top contender at 185lbs.

“I’m looking forward to the opportunity to fight a great like Vitor Belfort in the main event of a big card,” said Okami. “Vitor Belfort is still kind of my idol, so I am very excited. He will bring out the very best in me. Belfort is a great fighter but I feel I have certain advantages I can use in the fight. I will shock MMA fans around the world with my performance.”

Further bouts for UFC 122 will be announced shortly.

UFC 123: Rampage Jackson vs Lyoto Machida Lands in Detroit, 11/20

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 18:18:00 -0700

Source: boxingscene.com

Las Vegas, NV (USA) – Detroit will be infused with adrenaline on Saturday, November 20, as the Ultimate Fighting Championship® returns to the Motor City for the first time since UFC IX in 1996. In the main event, two former UFC® light heavyweight champions collide as Quinton “Rampage” Jackson takes on Lyoto “The Dragon” Machida at UFC 123: RAMPAGE vs. MACHIDA, presented by Bud Light and live from the Palace at Auburn Hills in Detroit, Michigan.

Also on this stacked UFC 123 card, former welterweight champions will settle their score as UFC Hall of Famer Matt Hughes and former two-division champion BJ Penn face off in the rubber match of one of the greatest trilogies in fight history.

“When you think of Detroit, the first names that come to mind are legends like Joe Louis and Tommy Hearns,” UFC President Dana White said. “This is a real fight town with diehard fight fans, so I'm happy to be the guy bringing big fights to the Motor City.”

“We’re bringing the best UFC fighters here on November 20th,” added White, who is heading to Detroit on Thursday, September 16th, to meet with the media and officially announce UFC 123. “Rampage Jackson and Lyoto Machida are two of the top light heavyweights in the world. I expect this fight to be a war, as both of these guys want to get back in the title run. The co-main event is Matt Hughes vs. BJ Penn, two of the best fighters in UFC history. They have both beat each other and jumped at the opportunity to fight a third time.”

“We’ve stayed in constant touch with the UFC for several years now in working together to develop an opportunity to place one of their electrifying events at The Palace of Auburn Hills,” said Stu Mayer, Senior Vice President, Sports & Events for Palace Sports & Entertainment. “We’re both extremely pleased that it’s finally become a reality. UFC 123 will no doubt be embraced by the greater Detroit area and throughout the state of Michigan.”

Tickets for UFC 123 will go on sale Monday, September 20 at 10 a.m. ET and will be priced at $400, $300, $200, $150, $100 and $50. Tickets are available at Palacenet.com, Ticketmaster.com, charge-by-phone (800.745.3000) and all Ticketmaster retail locations.

UFC® Fight Club™ members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets to this event Friday, September 17 starting at 10 a.m. ET via UFCFightClub.com. A special internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers on Saturday, September 18 starting at 10a.m. ET. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

UFC 123 will be available live on Pay-Per-View on iN DEMAND, DIRECTV, DISH Network, TVN, BellTV, Shaw Communications, Sasktel, and Viewer’s Choice Canada for a suggested retail price of $44.99 US/$49.99 CAN for standard definition or high-definition broadcasts (where available). UFC 121 will also be available on Pay-Per-View in Spanish in the United States.

A ferocious competitor known for his aggressive slams and knockout power, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson (fighting out of Memphis, Tenn. / professional record: 30-8) has been in there with the best and has beaten the best. A former Pride® veteran and UFC light heavyweight champion, the Memphis native’s UFC stint has seen him score knockout victories over Chuck Liddell and Wanderlei Silva and decision wins over Dan Henderson and Keith Jardine, making it clear that the 32-year-old can stand in the Octagon with anyone.

“I started this camp very early,” Jackson said. “I stayed in shape from the last fight and the weight hasn’t been an issue this time. Every single minute of this camp will be focused on technique, not getting back in shape or shaking the ring rust after a long time off.

“If Machida decides to fight me, it will be an exciting fight for one round before he goes to sleep. I am expecting him to run from me, though. He’d wear sneakers into the Octagon if he could! But don’t worry, I will hunt him down and get him anyway.”

A black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and Machida Karate, Lyoto “The Dragon” Machida (fighting out of Belem, Brazil / 16-1) has proved he is dangerous anywhere the fight goes. The former UFC light heavyweight champion won his first 16 professional fights and is focused on getting back into the title picture. Winning five of his first six fights in the UFC, the 32-year-old has finished three bouts, including a submission win over Rameau Sokoudjou and knock out victories against Thiago Silva and Rashad Evans.

“I know what it’s like to be the champion and I want to be the champion again,” Machida said. “I respect Rampage and I think he is an incredible fighter, but I’m going to expose his weaknesses – I’m going to win this fight on November 20 and go after the light heavyweight title.”

A fighter that is seeing a renaissance during an already brilliant career, Matt Hughes (fighting out of Hillsboro, Ill. / 46-7) has won his last three fights, putting himself back in the title picture once again. After a unanimous decision win against Matt Serra, a KO victory over Renzo Gracie and a submission victory over Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt Ricardo Almeida, the 36-year-old has cemented his UFC Hall Of Fame status as he looks to get his welterweight title back.

In a move back to the 170-pound class after a very successful run as champion at 155 pounds, former UFC lightweight and welterweight champion BJ Penn (fighting out of Hilo, Hawaii / 15-7-1) will meet Hughes in a highly-anticipated rubber match. After Penn won their first fight via submission at UFC 46 and Hughes evened the score via TKO at UFC 63, both fighters are hungry to break the tie. Penn, a highly decorated Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, has always been known as a finisher, and with fighters such as Kenny Florian, Diego Sanchez, Sean Sherk, Joe Stevenson, Jens Pulver and even Hughes on that list, the 31-year-old Hawaiian is one of the sport’s most dangerous competitors.

Devon Alexander: Bradley, Stop Making Excuses and Fight!

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:36:00 -0700

Source: Ryan Burton | boxingscene.com

WBC/IBF junior welterweight champion Devon Alexander reached out to BoxingScene.com to responsed to certain comments that were made by WBO champion Tim Bradley during a recent video interview conducted by BoxingScene's Luis Sandoval.

In the interview, Bradley said that Devon Alexander should already be training in the gym to get ready for their proposed January 29th showdown and that he is going to put a beating on Alexander. "Bradley should be signing contracts instead of doing interviews saying he is going to whoop me. Bradley is just using his promoter as an excuse to duck me again. Why do interviews talking junk when you won't sign a contract to make the fight? I have done everything on my side possible to make this fight happen and he's done nothing to make this fight happen except make excuses."

The St. Louis native thinks that Bradley is just running his mouth and never intended to fight him in the first place. "Bradley's been ducking me for 2 years now. We were supposed to fight on ShoBox when we were up and comers and he vacated the WBC belt to duck me. Now he is running away from a million dollars to keep from fighting me. Step up to the plate and sign the contract and then you can talk junk in interviews."

The 23 year old unified champion doesn't believe that Bradley's promoter Gary Shaw is the problem. BoxingScene recently ran an article in which Shaw stated that signing an extension wasn't ever part of the negotiations in making the Alexander fight.

Alexander went on to tell BoxingScene, "Bradley, stop using your promoter as an excuse and fight me. I have wanted this fight for a long time. I did my part and I signed a contract for the fight."

Alexander said that the contract he signed to fight Bradley wasn't what he was hoping for, but that he wants to make the fans happy. He said he understands that while boxing is a business the fans are the lifeblood of the sport. "I made concessions and signed up to do this fight because its a fight the fans want to see. I did what I had to do and I signed my contract because I want to make the fans happy."

As each day passes the likelihood of the showdown between two of boxing's brightest and youngest stars appears to grow dimmer. Alexander said that his manager Kevin Cunningham isn't just going to let him sit on the shelf and if the Bradley fight isn't going to happen then they have to move on. He liked what he saw out of Victor Ortiz in his 3 round beat down of faded former champion Vivian Harris. "I thought Ortiz looked good. If Bradley keeps ducking me then we will give Ortiz a shot."

Alexander ended our conversation with a message for the fans, "I want the fans

to know I am willing to fight any and everybody. I don't make excuses."

Matthew Hall Set To Walk Away After Recent TKO Loss

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:34:00 -0700

Source: Terence Dooley | boxingscene.com

Matthew Hall announced his retirement in the immediate aftermath of his European light-middleweight title battle with Lukas Konecny at the LG Arena, Birmingham on Saturday night despite holding his own against the tough Czech early in the contest. Hall was floored twice in the sixth round, the second knockdown signalling the end at 1:53 of the round.

Hall, however, had started the contest brightly – the Middleton man (10st 13lb 12oz) landed a left hook to the head of his slow-burning foe early in the opening session. Konecny (10st 12lb 12oz) kept his composure after taking a body shot in the second stanza – Hall set the shot up with a nice feint but it was Konecny who landed the more effective punches as the two vied for the title vacated by Ryan Rhodes.

As predicted, the two stocky, compact men mirrored one another. Konecny, sensing that he was doing things the hard way by standing close to Hall, started to take a half step back – allowing Matthew the space to move forward – and whipped home hooks to the body and head of the former Commonwealth champion.

Lukas, who lost by a MD to Serhiy Dzinziruk when challenging for the WBO title in 2008, had worked the body of Hall well during the early going, the shots started to tell in the fifth. Matthew took a pair of hooks, left and right, to the ribs but managed to fire home a right hand to the head. Lukas was drawing on experience born of EBU, EBU-EU and Inter-Continental title fights, sneaking a breather when needed and making sure that his blows were hard and accurate.

This preciseness rose to the fore in the sixth, a perfect left hook to the chin of Hall was followed by a right hand. Hall rose, the action resumed, and 'El Torito' unleashed, and landed, a desperate left to the head of the visitor, who responded with a left hook to the shaven skull of Hall followed by a fight-ending right hook to the body of his sagging opponent. Referee Guido Cavalleri had seen enough and waved it off.

It was a gruelling encounter for the defeated fighter; he had to dig deep to match Konecny, 45-3 (22 early), and had given his own lumps during a brutally intelligent phone-booth brawl. Matthew, now 23-3 (16 KOs), was blunt and to the point in the post-fight interview. “He got me with a good shot to the body and that is me done. I don't want to be second best so I'm retiring,” admitted Hall.

Hall's preparation was thrown out-of-whack in the dressing room when his gloves were replaced due to a tear, Matthew told Sky Sport's Ed Robinson that the pre-fight delay had not affected him in the slightest.

“I was calm when I got in the ring, I just beat by a better man. I'm not as good as I think I am. I'm not going to scrape about at levels that I think I should be better than. I may as well pack it in and do something else,” said Hall, who shouldn't be too hasty, he was only recently a Commonwealth title holder and had stepped up a level on Saturday night.

Indeed, Hall is roundly praised by his fellow pros and is acknowledged as a great presence to have in the gym: a few months off, a change of heart and who knows? Pressure fighters do tend to burn brightly and fade quicker than other fighters but a rejuvenated Hall, who is only 26, would be a welcome, and potentially successful, face on the British circuit – the domestic 154lb division is still wide open.

Abraham vs Froch: November 27 or December 18 in Play

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:33:00 -0700

Source: Mark Vester | boxingscene.com

According to Gareth Davies of The Telegraph, the super middleweight bout between Arthur Abraham and Carl Froch is going to take place before the end of the year. There are two dates being scouted by Sauerland Event. The dates of November 27 and December 18 are being mentioned. The fight was scheduled to happen on October 2, but Froch suffered a back injury and needed additional time to recover.

Abraham vs. Froch is a semi-final bout in Showtime's Super Six Boxing Classic. Abraham is frustrated with the postponement. He says nobody has the exact details of Froch's injury and it makes him wonder if the British fighter is playing mental games.

"What's the problem with him? No one really knows. I want this fight to be re-scheduled as soon as possible. We can't afford to lose time. A boxing career is too short, and I want to fight every three months. It is very tough waiting. Right now, the battle between is all mental, because we are evenly matched," Abraham said.

Bradley: "I'll Whoop Devon's Ass, Then Take Out Khan!

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:31:00 -0700

Source: Lem Satterfield | boxingscene.com

During a recent BoxingScene.com interview with Luis Sandoval, WBO junior welterweight champion Timothy Bradley (26-0, 11KOs) promised to punish WBC/IBF champion Devon Alexander (21-0, 13KOs) on January 29. Bradley says the fight will happen and negotiations continue with his promoter Gary Shaw. Should he beat Alexander, and Amir Khan gets past Marcos Maidana on December 4, then Bradley wants to challenge Khan next.

"I'm going to take care of Devon, and then, once I take care of Devon, you know if Amir is saying I'll fight Devon, and then he'll fight Maidana and then he'll fight me next, and I'll take out Amir Khan next too. And then, I'll go after, you know, whoever else," Bradley told BoxingScene.com.

"All of my fans out there, I'm going to give you exactly what you've been asking for, and that's an a** whupping for Devon Alexander. That's what I'm going to give you."

Bradley sat ringside on Saturday night at Staples Center, watching Victor Ortiz demolish Vivian Harris in three rounds. Bradley would love to make a fight with Ortiz in Southern California.

"Victor Ortiz is saying that he's a great fighter. We can fight right here. We're both from California. That's a huge fight. That's a huge fight. And when I started my career, I felt that me and Victor were going to be facing each other one day here at The Staples Center," Bradley said.

World Series of Boxing: Miami Named as Host City

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:29:00 -0700

Source: boxingscene.com

(MIAMI, FLA.) – The city of Miami has been selected as a host city for one of the 12 World Series of Boxing (WSB) global franchises, WSB Chairman and International Amateur Boxing Association (AIBA) President, Dr. Ching-Kuo Wu, announced Monday. The Miami-Dade Sports Commission will serve as the management group for the Miami franchise, which will be one of three WSB squads based in the United States.

"I am delighted to officially announce Miami as one of the 12 global World Series of Boxing franchise teams,” said President Wu. “I believe that we have found an excellent partner in the Miami-Dade Sports Commission, as well as a world-class venue in the AmericanAirlines Arena. Put together with the top athletes who have committed to the Miami team, this means that the revolutionary new World Series of Boxing competition has an excellent foundation for its first season in Miami."

Miami-Dade Sports Commission Executive Director Mike Sophia will lead the organization as the General Manager of the Miami franchise, and he has already secured a top-level venue for the Miami squad. The AmericanAirlines Arena, home of the NBA’s Miami Heat, will host all of the Miami franchise home contests.

“The Miami-Dade Sports Commission will be an outstanding partner as we work to create a home for the World Series of Boxing and our athletes in Miami,” said WSB Americas Managing Director Eric Parthen. “Mike Sophia and the commission staff possess valuable knowledge and experience in promoting and executing high-level sporting events in this area, and we look forward to creating a top notch sports franchise in Miami.”

The Miami-Dade Sports Commission opened its doors in 2004 and has secured over 50 major events and created $150 million in economic impact since that time. “We are thrilled to bring this revolutionary boxing concept to Miami,” Sophia said. “Miami boasts a long and storied boxing tradition and hosting a World Series of Boxing franchise will add a new and exciting chapter to Miami sports history. I am excited to work with the WSB staff, our athletes and coaches to develop a fresh and unique fan experience in the Miami sports scene.”

The Miami franchise will enjoy high level leadership in the corner as well. 1996 Olympic Coach Pat Burns will serve as the franchise head coach following an illustrious career in both amateur and professional boxing. Burns is a familiar figure in the Miami area, having held numerous training camps in Miami.

Burns will lead a strong squad of 14 talented athletes into action at the AmericanAirlines Arena. The Miami roster includes a diverse mix of decorated American and foreign boxers that will be publicly announced within the next 2 weeks.

The World Series of Boxing is a unique professional boxing league created by AIBA to will reunite the broader boxing world and its grassroots foundation, provide a bridge between Olympic boxing and professional boxing, and grow the sport’s fan base in the United States and throughout the world. All of the World Series of Boxing athletes will maintain their amateur eligibility.

James DeGale Says: "I Back Up My Talk!"

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:28:00 -0700

Source: Terence Dooley | boxingscene.com

James DeGale's grudge match against Liverpool's Carl Dilks was tipped as the potential upset of the night ahead of Frank Warren's LG Arena, Birmingham card on Saturday only for 'Chunky' to produce the performance of his career to force a stoppage at 2:54 of the opening round. Dilks was bloodied around the nose and right eye and the Liverpool fighter, although not caught cleanly during the fight-ending flurry, was pulled out at the right time by referee Howard Foster.

Dilks, though, feels that he could have continued, this belief will be amplified by the fact that there were only six seconds left in the session; the former soldier, however, looked dazed at the conclusion and had found DeGale's speed and power too much.

Indeed, Dilks (11st 13lb 8oz) may have quickened his own fate, he served notice of his own ability by landing a beautiful right hand on DeGale (12st at the second attempt after coming in an oz over) early in the round, the Olympic gold medallist responded with a right hook to the head that forced Dilks, now 14-3 (5), onto the back-foot. A right uppercut from the southpaw stance of DeGale started the rot and was a wonderfully picked shot.

DeGale, who rises to 8-0 (6 early), put himself in line for a British super-middleweight title fight, this was an eliminator for the belt held by Paul Smith, he looked pleased with his night's work when speaking to me after the bout. “I'm feeling good and ready to fight again on December 11th,” he smiled.

“I said before it is all about levels but I thought it would last a little longer to be honest with you. It was a good match between two British fighters and it was good for the proper boxing people. I think the future's bright,” predicted the personable 24-year-old prospect.

“You know what, I never got out off first gear. I was just getting warmed up, my arms were just getting warmed up, and you saw me win that one in second gear – I'm not lying.”

“It happened so quick” admitted DeGale when asked if he felt it was a fair stoppage. “I got in there and felt I could see everything he wanted to do, he was slow. I knew he was going to go within six but didn't know he was going to go in one. He can't have any complaints, he was all over the ropes and taking a beating.”

DeGale shook his head when asked if he'd struggled to take off the last couple of lbs prior to Friday's weigh-in, he also laughed off rumours that he had taken his foot off the gas when preparing for this one and had been 6lbs over earlier in the week.

“I'm with the best fitness trainer in the world and will always be one hundred percent with [trainer] Jimmy McDonnell. I train really hard and am always fully concentrated when I get in the ring so no one has to worry,” he insisted.

“Listen, we're professionals. Super-middleweight is not a problem, I make it easy. I was an ounce overweight. In my first professional fight I was 2lb under and was 3lb under for [Ciaran] Healey [in fight number three] – I could do middleweight if I had to. It was a silly mistake, I shouldn't have had that cup of tea in the morning. Jim is a fitness fanatic so I'll never be out-off-shape.”

Paul Smith holds the Lonsdale belt yet the Londoner is the only British super-middleweight not calling for 'Smigga'; the Harlesden-based boxer believes that Smith will vacate sooner rather than later and spare them both a divisive meeting.

“If I had to but I'm friends with the family and very good friends with his younger brother,” said DeGale when asked if he will have to fight his promotional stablemate. “I wouldn't want to, it wouldn't be nice, but if I had to then it would be business. Anyway, I think Paul will move on and vacate it at the end of the year. I'll probably fight for the vacant title.”

He added: “I'll fight whoever they put in front of me (for the vacant belt)! I was going to box Paul David [Smith's next opponent] myself but it didn't come up. Now he's boxing for a British title so it shows the levels and that I'm coming up fast.”

DeGale was greeted by a smattering of boos when making his way to the ring on Saturday night. However, he believes that his ability to back up the boasts is endearing him to British boxing fans.

He said: “There were still a couple of boos but listen, every great fighter gets that – they turned to cheers when I got the stoppage. I'm not the full Monty yet, I'm still learning, but I talk the talk and then walk the walk.”

Antonio Margarito Training Tough in Phase One of Camp

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:24:00 -0700

Source: boxingscene.com

Three-time world champion Antonio Margarito is running up the mountains in San Bernardino, Ca. in his first phase of training for the mega fight against Manny Pacquiao on November 13.

"Margarito goes straight up - no trails - he runs through brambles and bushes," said chief trainer Robert Garcia today.

Garcia said he drives Margarito to Mount Baldy, elevation 4,193 feet, in San Bernardino County.

"We need strong legs to beat Pacquio," Garcia said. "Antonio runs up the mountain for a hour, returns and then we're off right away to the El Monte Gym which is nearby. There, Antonio goes into a hard workout - mitts, then heavy bag, jump rope, speed bag, It's a long, hard workout. No sparring - at least, not yet."

Garcia said Margarito will break camp at the El Monte Gym at the end of this week and then begin phase two of training in Oxnard, Calif.

"Margarito will spar for six weeks beginning next week," said Garcia. "This is our game plan and we are right on schedule."

Pacquiao vs. Margarito on November 13 is promoted by Top Rank in association with MP Promotions and Cowboys Stadium. Pacquiao vs. Margarito will be available on HBO Pay Per View. For the latest event updates, log into Toprank.com

Amir Khan: "I'm Going To Knock Marcos Maidana Out!"

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:22:00 -0700

Source: Lem Satterfield | boxingscene.com

On December 11 at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Amir Khan (23-1, 17KOs) will defend his WBA junior welterweight title against Marcos Maidana (29-1, 27KOs). Khan makes his Las Vegas debut and his second ring appearance in the United States. The fight will headline an HBO televised doubleheader. Junior welterweight Victor Ortiz has been rumored for the co-feature slot.

Khan was urging Golden Boy Promotions to finalize the deal with Maidana. He badly wanted the fight to prove he wasn't ducking the big puncher from Argentina. Khan is confident that by the end of the night, he will become the first man to knock Maidana out.

"The reason that I want to fight Maidana so badly is that people have been saying that I have a suspect chin, and this, that and the other. But, I can honestly say that I'm going to go into this fight, and I'm going to win this fight. And I'm going to knock him out. Because I know with the style I've got, he can't come with the style that I've got," Khan said.

"I'm going to knock him out. I know what's going to happen. People can say all sorts of things about what they believe the outcome of this fight is going to be, but it's only going to be me and Maidana in the ring. They can say whatever they want. I'm going to be in the ring and I'm going to win this fight."

Khan had a chance to review Maidana's lackluster performance against former champion DeMarcus Corley, which took place in August. He expects Maidana to be a better prepared fighter for their year-end encounter, but he also felt Maidana's flaws were further exposed in the Corley performance.

"It was a tough fight. DeMarcus Corley is a good fighter who can make anyone look boring. He's good. Corley is very good and experienced and he did what he had to do. But that did show that Maidana has a lot of flaws. And he makes a lot of mistakes and has a lot of faults," Khan said.

"But I'm sure that Maidana will be prepared and he won't make those same mistakes when he fights me. But overall, I thought that Maidana did what he had to do. Boxed well. But he did kind of get into a battle and I saw some weakness."

Arum: Pacquiao-Mosley unlikely after Mora draw

noreply@blogger.com (kid) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 02:15:00 -0700

Source: abs-cbnNEWS.com

MANILA, Philippines – The possibility of a showdown between “Sugar” Shane Mosley and Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao dimmed because according to the Filipino’s promoter, the American fighter is already past his prime.

Top Rank, Inc. CEO Bob Arum said this after Mosley and Sergio Mora’s fight on Saturday (Sunday in Manila) ended in a draw.

Arum was not able to watch the bout but he kept himself updated on the Mosley-Mora clash.

“What I've read is not very supportive to make any Mosley-Pacquiao bout. Look, he’s going to be 40 and he’s in the lighter weights where speed is so important. He’s on a show with guys (example, 20-year-old Saul Canelo Alvarez) old enough to be his son,” Arum told Michael Marley of Examiner.com.

Arum noted that Pacquiao, 31, will most likely not fight an “aging” 39-year-old Mosley. Pacquiao has a record of 51-3-2 (with 38 knockouts) while Mosley has 46 wins, 6 losses and 1 draw (with 39 knockouts).

“I read them saying Mosley was huffing and puffing for air in the fourth or fifth round,” stated Arum. “To me, that is the real tipoff for an aging fighter. Even Big George Foreman did that in his 40s but he always had that big, big punch like in the (Michael) Moorer fight.”

The Top Rank head honcho even likened Mosley’s situation to that of 45-year-old Bernard Hopkins, who is set to face Jean Pascal in December.

“It’s like Hopkins, he still knows how to fight but who wants to pay to see him now? His fights are not very scintillating. What you see with Hopkins we’re beginning to see with Mosley.”

But Arum cleared that he has no bad blood with Mosley.

“I guess Shane needs the money due to his matrimonial situation (a divorce under harsh California community property rules)… I’ve always considered Shane to be a nice guy but this is what happens to fighters when they age,” he said.

Mosley speaks up

Mosley, for his part, thought that he won his bout held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California.

But the judges scored 115-113 for Mora, 116-112 for Mosley and 114-114.

“I fought my heart out. I get down on myself when I don’t get the knockout but I tried,” he said in a press conference as quoted by Felipe Leon of FightNews.com.

“I did what I do but I got the draw, what can you do? I thought I beat him by a couple of rounds,” he added.

Mosley also admitted that it was tough to catch up with Mora because he was a “very awkward fighter” who kept on moving.

Golden Boy Promotions President Oscar de la Hoya, the promoter of Mosley and Mora, insisted that Mosley still has it.

“Shane Mosley is still Shane Mosley,” he said. “You can’t look good against Mora, he is a game fighter. He is still the Mosley we are used to seeing.” – With reports from Examiner.com and FightNews.com