The Boxing Bulletin

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2009-11-19T22:47:00.004-05:00

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Pacquiao's Triumph, Cotto's Tragedy

2009-11-17T11:04:00.000-05:00

Jeff Pryor gives hit thoughts on this past Saturday's big fight.

Photo © Ray Kasprowicz

He's got real welterweight power. He's got a real welterweight chin.

This past Saturday, Welterweight's around the world, even the best of the best, (Mosley and Mayweather, that's you), had to feel a little flutter in their stomachs as they watched Manny Pacquiao dispose of the otherwise resilient and courageous Miguel Cotto.

Margarito, Mosley, Judah... some of the more explosive and damaging punchers in the division, did not do to Cotto what the supposedly diminutive Filipino was able to do.

He unloaded devastating salvos that exploded across Cotto's chin and sent the world class Puerto Rican crumpling down to the mat like a rag doll.

The speed, angles, energy and fighting spirit we all knew, with 100% certainty, had made the trip up in weight with Pacquiao, but until this last bout there was a question mark on the legitimacy of his power and ability to take a punch.

Those questions have been answered.

In doing so, Pacquiao has stamped himself emphatically as the premiere fighter at Welterweight, and of the entire sport of boxing. He very likely has stamped himself as the greatest boxer of his generation, and has put forth the compelling argument that he is an all-timer that could go head to head with any fighter who ever lived and have a pretty damn good shot at winning.

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As to the fight itself; it was no cake walk. To claim it was, diminishes Pacquiao's accomplishment.

Cotto fought well, and hard, for the first four rounds. Miguel, known for being very heavy handed, though lacking explosive power, dug in hard to Manny's body, landed flush power shots to Pacquiao's shaggy head, and laid a good number of his sunday punches on the money.

The amazing thing was that nothing seemed to affect the division jumping dynamo. And while Cotto had a hard time putting the hurt on, Pacquiao was able to detonate fight altering blasts that wobbled Cotto throughout the fight.

When it came down to it, the size of the two men was about the same. The speed was relatively close. No, despite what most thought would be the deciding factors, what the fight came down too, was Pacquaio's uncanny durability.

Cotto's chin, which has held up reasonably well during his remarkable Welterweight run, could not stand up to the explosive force of Pacquiao's precision pummeling.

Perhaps taken separately, Miguel could have survived the speed deficit, or awkward angle assaults, or even the X-factor explosiveness of the Pacquiao punch, but when you combine those attributes, what makes Manny what he is now, is the combination of devastatingly explosive power, and a well tuned, yet unpredictable, delivery system.

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It would seem that the pinnacle of Miguel Cotto's life as a fighter was reached in the early rounds against Antonio Margarito. He was fluidly assaulting the tough Tijuanian, combining a fury and precision that was nearing mastery as he peppered Margarito and evaded much of the return fire. In the early going it looked like Cotto was making his case for pound for pound supremacy.

What unfolded next is a matter of record and from the tail end of those moments of brilliance on that summer night two July's ago, until now, the tale of Miguel Cotto has been one of a precipitous , though valiant, downfall.

Against the fighter, who now it can be said, is undoubtedly the best in the world, Cotto had success early on. Winning the majority of moments through four rounds. His jab was consistently snapping back Pacquiao's head, and he was able to throw combinations with some success to Manny's body and head.

Though the first knockdown was more a stroke of ill timing for Cotto; the punch catching him off balance without his feet under him, the second seemed to signal all, but the end of the fight. As he trudged back to his corner following that viciously compact uppercut which scrambled his senses, Cotto's face seemed to purport that his self belief had been knocked out of him.

He sat heavily on the stool and stared vacantly at his young trainer for the first quarter of his break; lips, thickly parted, eyes glassy and staring. Only when trainer Joe Santiago began to rub his face and head vigorously, did Cotto seem to snap out of his dazed reverie and come back to reality.

As the rounds wore on and Cotto started to retreat more and more, he looked increasingly weary in the corner. The contest becoming one merely of endurance; enduring pain and embarrassment, rather than a competition to win.

What Cotto lacked in ability to hurt Pacquiao, he made up for with a quiet showing of guts, grit and determination. Though he was forced to increasing amounts of retreat, there was never a round that he didn't fire off real blows, launching attacks with real intention to hurt, even as Pacquiao ate them up and kept coming.

As the HBO announcers astutely pointed out, tough moments for a proud warrior.

It is a revealing peak into Cotto's personality, that when told he had one more round by his corner before they would stop it, heading into the tenth, he went out and put together a determined round, one in which none of the judges had him winning, however one in which he seemed to put anything he had left into lasting just a little longer, refusing to give in.

The eleventh round saw more punishment for Miguel than a classy fighter like him should have to endure, the crowd booing as he ran out the clock, trying desperately to avoid more damage to his battered body and face. At rounds end the translator had him exclaiming wearily and with a sense of disbelieving "There's one more round?".

The look on his face said it all. Three more minutes of hell.

Cotto said later that he wanted them to stop it then... but he changed his mind. He's a fighter. He's a man. At that moment no one would have blamed him for giving in. He didn't.

Thankfully Kenny Bayless did his job, just as Cotto and Pacquiao did theirs.

Where does Cotto take that warriors heart from here? The writing seems to be on the wall, and it states plainly that Miguel Cotto is no longer that unblemished destructor that entered the ring against Margarito.

He may be in a position to face the Shane Mosley vs. Andre Berto winner. A Margarito rematch may be in the offing should the embattled brawler be reinstated and there are surely good fighters he can still beat, but at the highest level, it would seem Miguel Cotto has entered the twilight of his career.

If he is to continue on in the hopes of obtaining another marquee fight, he would be best served in taking a step down in opposition after facing the cream of the crop for the last several years.

Wherever Cotto goes from here, he has earned his millions and hopefully gets to enjoy them with great health and a sense of accomplishment for the terrific career and legacy he forged for himself.

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As for the man from Manila, Mayweather undeniably looms. As Freddie Roach has suggested, that fight may be the one to go out on. The penultimate career topper for the ferocious Filipino who has faced down the best boxing could put in front of him, from weight classes near and far.

That man is all smiles right now, just as he always is; a fact which I thought about as he walked to the ring on Saturday. Here it was the biggest fight of his life, and Manny was grinning his usual grin, winking and waiving to random crowd members.

I once asked former middleweight Anthony Bonsante whether his fearsome countenance in the lead up until the bell rang was a put on, to psych out his opponent. He told me that it was nothing of the sort. Before the fight he worked himself into a genuine rancor, one which manifest itself on his face as an almost comical parody of anger at times, but it's what he had to do, in order to get into the mindset for fighting.

Pacquiao's lighthearted grin shone strong, in stark contrast to Cotto's quiet, determined, concentration. Just before Michael Buffer intoned his famous catch phrase to kick off the fighter introductions, the last lingering grin slid off of Manny's face, like a cloud passing over him. From that moment he didn't smile again, until midway through the fight when Cotto clipped him with a flush bomb to end round five, and he smirked sheepishly at getting caught by his waning opponent, as he strode back to his corner.

Therein lies the secret to Manny's success, in life and in the ring. He flips a switch and he changes gears.

That's why the maelstrom of his training camps don't affect him. That's why he can lull an opponent into a sudden bursting combo that plants them on the deck.

And that's why anyone who steps into the ring with Manny Pacquiao is a substantiated underdog. He is the benchmark for an era, and everyone else is playing catchup.

e-mail Jeff Pryor

One More Round With Mark Lyons: Pacquiao Smashes Cotto, Kessler vs Ward...

2009-11-16T17:20:00.002-05:00

Mark Lyons is back with his take on some recent and upcoming fights.

Photo © Ray Kasprowicz

Another bone breaking performance by Manny Pacquiao was the main course last week, although the appetizer was another hideous under-card from Top Rank. Coming up this week is the final, and in my opinion, the most evenly matched first round fight in Showtime's Super Six.

My Take on Saturday's Big Fight...

-- Manny Pacquiao put a vicious beating on Miguel Cotto in a fight that was exciting for a couple rounds and sad for a couple rounds. The only constant was the boss in the ring.

--Though the fight played out a lot like I predicted, there were a few surprises for me, such as Cotto's jab. I didn’t expect him to land it nearly as well as he did early in the fight. I also didn’t expect him to catch Manny with so many flush power shots, and even more surprising... how well the Filipino icon took those shots. I sure didn’t expect Manny to laugh at them.

-- I think we can put to rest the nonsense that Manny is incapable of fighting at the 147 pound limit. He weighed one pound less than Roberto Duran did in Montreal when they had same day weigh-ins. He is more naturally a Welterweight than any other weight class right now. While he will give up some size to guys there, his speed and power are a rough thing to get past for anybody and he doesn’t need any added advantages. Mosley or Mayweather at 147, simple as that.

-- As for Cotto, he was fine at the weight. He just wasn’t fine with the beast standing across the ring from him. I want to select my words carefully here because Miguel is a credit to the sport and I have long been a fan, but I think it’s time for him to start thinking about retiring. I realize he has only just turned twenty nine years old, but he fights older. It may be a bit of a Fernando Vargas situation where his career was meant to be over earlier than most others.

-- Miguel has been in a lot of wars and I’m not saying he is shot. But I do think he is done at the elite level. He honestly isn’t tough enough for the very best in the game and he isn’t a good enough boxer to back off and do anything more than take a beating. Yet he most certainly is too much of a man to not seek out the best fighters as opponents and that could lead to some unnecessary poundings. I just don’t get the backing off in the mid rounds after he sets the pace for a war. I’m not questioning his heart, it’s his body. He just can’t take what the best have to give.

-- The less said about that under-card, the better. Thanks a lot, Bob. Really? Is that the best you can do for the fans?

Looking Ahead To This Weekend...

-- Ward and Kessler close out the opening round of the Super Six and look to be the most evenly matched fighters so far. Kessler is a big/strong guy for the weight who operates behind a solid one-two but his offence lacks variety and I think Ward’s excellent footwork can get a lot done here.

-- The wild card for me is how Andre will react to Mikkel’s punch. That will tell the story of the fight in my view. I’m going to say Ward, infused by a home town crowd, keeps himself together through some rough spots and pulls out a close and probably spilt decision in a tactical but entertaining fight.

A Fight I’ve Been Thinking About...

-- Lets stick with the man of the hour and look at Manny Pacquiao vs Esteban Dejesus at lightweight. This would be tremendously explosive early, as Dejesus was very fast and powerful in his own right and I have little doubt that he would land often and hard enough to rock and possibly even floor Manny. On the other side of the Spectrum, Dejesus could be worn down by the greatest of fighters and while Manny isn’t Duran in my book, he is just a step down from him.

-- I’ll take Manny by late stoppage or a close but clear decision in a real slugfest.

e-mail Mark Lyons

British Scene Weekend Recap: All Square Between Hatton & N'dou

2009-11-16T14:26:00.000-05:00

Dave Oakes recaps this past weekend's British action.

Photo © Ray Kasprowicz

Lovemore N’dou retained his IBO belt on Friday night after he and Matthew Hatton (pictured) fought to a draw in an uneventful fight in Stoke.

Neither man stamped their authority on the fight; N’dou seemed to start slowly before picking up the pace slightly in the middle rounds, whilst Hatton looked one-paced and lacking in any ideas throughout the fight.

The first round could’ve gone either way with both fighters seemingly content enough to check each other out whilst hardly throwing any noteworthy punches. Hatton took over the fight for the next few rounds, although that was more down to N’dou’s lack of ambition rather than anything Hatton was doing. Hatton was avoiding most of the South African’s desperate lunges and was having the occasional success of his own, usually with the straight right.

N’dou never really got going early on, he landed two decent looking body shots in the fourth but was looking like an old fighter trying to regain what he used to have. Despite having a well-known name there for the taking, Hatton still looked devoid of ideas as to how to deal with him.

Hatton was allowing N’dou’s disjointed efforts to look far better than they were. Hatton seems to be stuck in a style which is 99% jabs and straight rights; he sporadically throws a hook to the body and the occasional hook to the head but he’s embarrassingly limited for someone who’s had forty plus fights.

With a lot of the previous rounds having been close, Hatton inexplicably let N’dou outwork him in the eighth and ninth rounds. N’dou tried to increase the pace in the two rounds but it was Hatton’s lackadaisical approach to the rounds that swung them in N’dou’s favour. If Hatton had kept plodding along at the pace he had been doing, he would’ve won the rounds comfortably.

To his credit, Hatton realised he needed to finish strongly and forced himself onto the offensive in the final three rounds. He outworked N’dou as he finally let his hands go; he forced N’dou backwards with a steady output of jabs and straight rights, helping him to take all three rounds on my scorecard.

I had the fight scored 115-113 in Hatton’s favour but wasn’t surprised when the official scorecards made it a draw. One judge had Hatton winning 115-114, whilst another had in N’dou’s favour by the same score; the third and decisive judge scored it 114-114.

Hatton was furious after the fight but I feel he’s only got himself to blame. He let a fight that he was capable of winning slip through his fingers, if he’d shown the passion of the last three rounds earlier on, there would’ve been no purported controversy with the scoring.

Hatton has improved over the past eighteen months but still seems a mile away from being capable of winning a domestic title. N’dou, despite retaining his lightly regarded world title, looks like a fighter whose best days are very much behind him. He’s still teak tough but seems to be slowing down in both speed of foot and hand, the best he can hope for in the future is a couple of good paydays before retiring.

e-mail Dave Oakes

Nonito Donaire Sr. Discusses Marvin Sonsona's Upcoming Fight

2009-11-16T02:44:00.002-05:00

The Boxing Bulletin's Ivan Montiel had a chance to chat briefly with Filipino southpaw Marvin Sonsona's co-trainer Nonito Donaire Sr (pictured) about this Saturday's fight against Mexican Alejandro Hernandez.

Photo © Giordano Ciampini

Ivan Montiel: I've heard Sonsona still has to lose a bit of weight. How's that coming?

Nonito Donaire Sr: Well Sonsona is 6 pounds over at this point in time, but he’s doing just fine.

IM: What do you know about his opponent, Alejandro Hernandez?

ND: We’ve seen his last fight against Wilbert Uicab, and yes sure Hernandez has speed but he lacks power.

IM: What kind of approach will Sonsona bring to the fight this time around?

ND: We will see how Hernandez comes into the fight but it doesn’t matter because Sonsona will counter attack whatever he does.

IM: Sonsona was knocking all of his opponents out and never had gone 12 rounds until his last fight against Lopez. What has Sonsona learned from going 12 hard rounds?

ND: I was surprised that fight went the distance. Lopez got hit a lot yet I believe once this guy gets hit he will go down and out. Sonsona is always ready to go rounds, but with his power he will knock this guy Hernandez out

IM: Any predictions?

ND: I say 4 to 5 rounds so we can go home with no bruises (laughing).

IM: Well señor Donaire thank you for your time, and all the best to Team Sonsona!

ND: Thank you Ivan.

e-mail Ivan Montiel

Manny Pacquiao vs Miguel Cotto - Round by Round Coverage

2009-11-14T18:45:00.137-05:00

Welcome to The Boxing Bulletin's live blog coverage of tonight's HBO PPV event featuring Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto.

Our coverage will begin with the start of the broadcast at 9:00 PM EST. We'll be providing detailed round by round updates of the main event, as well as periodic updates of the under-card bouts.

If you're watching at home, please feel free to contribute by posting your scores and opinions of the fights.

Manny Pacquiao 49-3-2 (144) vs Miguel Cotto 34-1 (145)

Daniel Santos 32-3-1 (154) vs Yuri Foreman 27-0 (154)

Julio Cesar Chavez 40-0-1 (160) vs Troy Rowland 25-2 (159)

Alfonso Gomez 20-4-2 (145 1/2) vs Jesus Soto-Karass 24-3-3 (147 1/2)

Refresh this page often as updates will be frequent

6:45 PM EST... Please check back in a little over 2 hours for the start of our coverage.

7:50... The wait is almost over. Updates will start at 9 PM EST. Just over an hour to go until we're up and running with tonight's show.

7:55... If you're here early, check out Jeff Pryor's preview of tonight's main event: The Rise & Fall of Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto.

8:30... 30 minutes until we're underway.

8:50... Almost fight time. Get your snacks and drinks ready.

9:00... The show's starting.

9:02... Live from Las Vegas at the MGM. Jim Lampley is introducing tonight's line-up. First up will be Gomez vs Soto-Karass.

9:04... Gomez has re-hydrated to 152 tonight, while Soto-Karass is up to 158.

9:05... Neither of these two welters are world beaters, but both come to fight and this should be a good one.

9:06... Michael Buffer is doing the intros.

9:07... Vic Drakulich is the ref.

9:08... Final instructions are being given.

9:09... Larry Merchant is with Lampley in the booth.

9:12... Round 1... Action in the middle of the ring to start this one. Gomez is warned to keep them up after straying low with a body shot. Manny Steward is the 3rd man in the booth. He just commented that we haven't had any clinches. Solid action so far. Both guys willing to trade. "More mean intentions on Gomez' punches." - Larry. Good first round. Both men used the jab, both looked to go to the body, and both had their moments.

9:13... Lederman has it 1-0 for Gomez.

9:16... Manny Steward just said that he feels Soto-Karass has already shown he's got more pop and is looking more authoritative with his jab. "Very tough fight to score." - Steward. "Because Soto-Karass will have a good 20 seconds, and then Gomez will have a good 20 seconds." - Lampley Steward is impressed with Gomez. "He's very sharp and accurate." Gomez' mop of hair is drifting over his eyes, and he's had to brush it away with his gloves on a couple occasions. Gomez just landed a really nice combo. Soto-Karass just came back with a solid body shot, but Gomez responded nicely. Very good fight so far.

9:16... 2-0 on Harold's card for Gomez.

9:20... "More snap and intensity in the punches of Gomez, but more strength in Soto-Karass." - Merchant. Action in the middle of the ring, as it's been more most of the fight. No clinches, just good action. Soto-Karass is edging forward ever so slightly, but Gomez backs him off with a couple of nice right hands. There was an accidental clash of heads, and it looks like Gomez has been cut by his eye. The doctor is going to have a look at it. Action resumes. A real nice exchange in the middle of the ring, punctuated by a low blow from Soto-Karass... and he's going to lose a point for it. Action resumes again. Soto-Karass a little wide with his shots. Gomez a little sharper, and more accurate. Gomez with another nice combo, as the round comes to a close.

9:21... The cut is just on the side of Gomez' eye. Harold has him up 3-0, plus the deduction. 30-26.

9:24... Gomez sticking his jab in nicely, and landing his right as well. Soto-Karass just drilled him low again, and Drakulich is taking another point. Gomez is looking a little messy with the blood. It's streaming down from the eye. if this one is stopped, it will go to the cards and Gomez should have it, so Soto-Karass might start to think about throwing caution to the wind and going for something big here. Soto-Karass is going hard to the body, and straying low. There's always the chance of a DQ at this rate before the fight might be stopped because of the cut. Gomez with a nice sequence to close the round.

9:25... The cut is on the side, but also a bit above the actual eye. It's not in a good spot, and they aren't have much success stopping the flow of blood so far.

9:25... 30-24 on Harold's card.

9:28... Soto-Karass is edging forward, and ripping shots downstairs. Gomez is doing a nice job of catching him on the way in. He just landed a really nice combo, and Soto-Karass responded with a very nice right hand. "Soto-Karass far more aggressive in this round." - Lampley A good series from Soto-Karass, punctuated with a couple nice body shots. Good round for Soto-Karass here. Gomez is still bleeding freely. he just wiped away the blood with his glove. Very good finish to the round from Soto-Karass. A bit of the snap might be going from Gomez.

9:29... Miguel Cotto is at ring-side watching the fight.

9:29... 4-1 on Harold's card. 49-44.

9:32... This one is scheduled for 10 by the way. Not sure if I mentioned that yet or not. Gomez is looking a little disheveled, with his hair and the blood. The HBO crew are suggesting that the corner of Gomez stop working on the cut so that they can get a stoppage. Steward points out that the blood just hasn't stopped flowing. Gomez keeps pawing at the cut. It's in a real bad spot, and it hasn't stopped flowing. Drakulich has just taken Gomez over to the doctor for a look at the cut, and this one is over.

9:33... We just saw a replay of the clash of heads that caused the cut earlier in the fight. At the same point as their heads clashed, Soto-Karass landed a low blow. Larry points out the double foul with a chuckle.

9:33... We await the cards. The 6th round will be scored as well.

9:35... 58-54, 57-55, 57-55 all for Alfonso Gomez.

9:36... While the decision was being read by Buffer, Gomez' was having the belt (whatever belt this was for) wrapped around his waist. "That does kind of take away from the suspense." Lampley points out.

9:38... Manny Pacquiao arrived at his dressing room a couple minutes ago.

9:39... Manny Steward's keys to victory for Pac. Stay off the ropes - use footwork and upper body movement - attack up the middle - maintain poise.

9:40... Manny on what Miguel needs to do. Maximize size edge - work the body - force an inside fight - back Pac up.

9:41... Santos is 173 tonight. Foreman is 161. That's just crazy.

9:43... Yeah, the rules are the same for everyone, but fighters are making a mockery of the system. 19 pound weight increase? We've got a light heavy vs a middle in this one.

9:43... Jay Nady is the ref for this one.

9:44... Final instructions are being given, and we're moments away from starting.

9:45... "Santos blames his inactivity of almost a year and a half on Don King." - Larry

9:48... Steward points out Foreman's edge in speed. Santos is trying to edge forward, while Foreman is boxing from the outside, looking to get in and out. Foreman just landed a couple quick rights. We've got a lefty/righty match-up here I should mention, so there's always the danger of a clash of heads. Santos is the southpaw. Not much happening so far. Santos in the middle of the ring, edging forward but not very active. Foreman circling, also not too active. Not really a big surprise. Santos just managed to get close enough at the end to land a couple shots.

9:49... Santos 1-0 on Lederman's card.

9:52... Not too much happening in round 2. Steward points out that Foreman is moving nicely, but hasn't really managed to land any of his combos upstairs. Now there's a clinch, and Foreman whacks Santos as they break free. Action in the middle of the ring. Santos just landed a solid counter left. Foreman quickly backed off and Santos chased him, but then Foreman fired back and Santos went back to looking to counter. Foreman just landed a nice right, and Santos fires a hard left hand counter which almost knocked Foreman down. Now Foreman puts Santos down! Santos is claiming it was a shot to the back of the head, but it's ruled a knockdown. We'll have to see that again.

9:53... Let's see the replay. They were in the clinch, and Foreman landed a right hand to the side of Santos' head, and down he went. Perhaps their feet might have got tangled as well, but tough to tell on the replay.

9:56... 19-18 on Harold's card for Foreman. Action slow to start round 3. Santos stalking, with Foreman circling. Foreman with a quick shot to the body. Steward comments on Foreman's movement bothering Santos. Santos tries to press forward, but Foreman slides off to the side. Santos is slow on the counter with a left. Steward feels the fight will continue in this pattern with Foreman being too fast. Foreman comes forward with a little flurry. Steward comments that while Santos appears like the bigger stronger man, Foreman is doing well in the clinches. Foreman with a clean right hand. There's the bell. Santos really not doing much of anything so far. He'll have to pick things up.

10:00... Harold has it 2-1 Foreman. 29-27. Foreman with a lead right that lands. "The way I see this fight, Santos is just not doing enough." - Harold. Santos with a left hand that lands. Foreman with a right, and then grabs on. Foreman with a little flurry. he's picking his spots nicely. Santos with a 1-2 into the guard. "Santos trying to land that one big left that could change the fight." - Lampley. "That's the only punch he's trying to land." - Steward. "In the meantime, Foreman is picking up points." - Steward. Santos with a left hand, and then Foreman with a hard right hand counter that lands. Santos is hurt and backs up into the ropes. Foreman goes hard after him, and Santos holds on. Some excitement to end the 4th.

10:01...Foreman followed up the first hard right with another as Santos backed up into the ropes.

10:01... 3-1, 39-36 on Harold's card for Foreman.

10:04... Foreman with another hard right hand early in the 5th. Foreman will have to be careful when he jumps in there, but he's having success so far. Foreman with a little counter hook that lands. Now Santos is edging forward, showing a little more urgency, as Foreman circles away. Foreman jumps in with a right, and holds on. Foreman comes with a little flurry, and Santos backs up. "This is fascinating, because Santos is fighting in such a placid style that he's making Foreman look like the aggressor." - Larry. There's the bell.

10:05... 4-1 Foreman on Harold's card.

10:08... Santos just went down, but it was from a slip. Lampley thought Foreman may have landed to the body at the same time. Santos is now backing up, as Foreman flurries. We just got a clash of heads, and Foreman is cut. Not sure how bad it is. We'll find out after the round. Santos still not doing much. He's getting beaten to the punch, and not having much success finding the mark with left hand counters. Santos by the way missed the fighter meetings because he was struggling to get down to 154. Foreman tries to jump in with a shot, and Santos gets him in a headlock. Both fighters are warned for the roughness. Foreman offers his glove to Santos, but Santos declines to touch up. Foreman tries to jump in, and there's another clinch. Not a thrilling round.

10:12... 5-1 on Harold's card. "19 pound weight gain or not, Daniel Santos better get busy." - Harold. "It's like watching a totem pole, this guy standing in the middle of the ring doing so little." - Harold. Santos just landed a decent left hand. Lampley seems to think maybe Santos is ready to step things up. Santos just went down, and it's ruled a clash of heads by Nady. According to Lampley, it was a headbutt as someone on the crew just watched the replay and told him. Nady just took Foreman over to the doctor to check out the cut. The "action" has resumed. "All Foreman has to do is make Santos miss the big left hand shot, and then do what he has to." - Steward. "Foreman's in and out footwork is causing a big problem for Santos." - Steward. Santos just missed with a big left. Foreman tries to jump in with a right, but he misses and they clinch. There's the bell.

10:13... The cut is on Foreman's left eye. We just saw a replay of the "knockdown". It was definitely a clash of heads.

10:13... Harold has it 5-2. Foreman up by 4 points.

10:16... Nady warns Foreman about the head clashes. Foreman is jumping in with rights, and occasionally his head is running into Santos. I don't think it's intentional, but we've got the southpaw/righty thing happening. Foreman with a right hand that lands. "Santos is acting like a baby now." - Steward on Santos' complaining. Santos just misses with a left hand. Foreman jumps in with a body shot. Not much action here, and it's kind of awkward when they do exchange. Santos is edging forward, hoping Foreman opens up so he can fire the left. Instead we get a clinch. Santos with a left, but it doesn't land flush. There's the bell.

10:17... Manny Pacquiao is having his hands wrapped. Two members of Cotto's team are watching carefully.

10:20... 6-2 on Harold's card. By the way, Manny is wrapping his own hands. Not much happening here with Foreman and Santos. Santos edging forward, with Foreman circling. Neither man opening up. Foreman just tries to jump in with a right, but misses. Foreman now misses with a left. Foreman lands a lead left. Foreman with a little shot on the inside. Santos with a left that lands. Every once in awhile Santos lands a left, but it hasn't had any effect on Foreman. Santos just landed a decent combo, which got a reaction out of some of the Puerto Rican's in the crowd. Foreman with a nice right hand. Santos responds with a decent uppercut. Foreman though responds nicely with a couple good rights. Some decent action there. Now Santos presses forward with a little urgency as Foreman backs into the ropes, but he can't land anything. Not much action, but Larry mentions it's an interesting fight anyway.

10:24... 6-3 on Harold's card. Foreman just landed a nice right hand counter. Santos edges forward and lands a left. There's another clash of heads. That looked a little rough, as Santos immediately turns away. Santos turned away in similar fashion to the way Agbeko did against Perez, but thankfully Nady was on top of things. Santos edging forward here. Foreman jumps in with a body shot. "Santos is still looking for one big shot." - Lampley. Foreman with a lead right that lands. Foreman with a left to the body. Foreman with a nice hard right hand that lands clean. Santos comes forward and lands a jab, and then they clinch. Foreman jumps in with a little flurry. Foreman makes Santos miss and lands a right hand. Good round here for Foreman. Santos trying to press forward, but Foreman circles away. There's the bell.

10:25... Cotto is having his hands wrapped. I imagine the footage is being shown in the arena, as the crowd starts buzzing.

10:29... Foreman catches Santos with a right to start the round. Another right from Foreman. He's up 7-3 on Harold's card. Plus, the knockdown and it's a 5 point fight. Foreman with a nice right hand that backs Santos up. Now Foreman presses Santos in the ropes and flurries. Now the action moves back into the middle of the ring. Foreman with a jab, and they clinch. Santos tries to whack Foreman in the clinch. Santos edging forward with some purpose here. Foreman circling away though, and he catches Santos with a little hook on the way in. There's another clinch. Santos misses with a left in close. Lampley comments on how every once in awhile Foreman stops and catches Santos. There's a bit of blood coming from the right eye of Santos. Santos trying to push forward and rough Foreman up, but can't land anything. Santos is now being taken over to the doctor by Nady to have a look at the cut. The doctor gives the go ahead to get back in there. Santos following, but not landing here. Now he lands a shot as the round comes to a close.

10:30... "You're ahead, now don't get stupid!" - Foreman's corner.

10:33... There's a clinch to start the round. Santos misses with a left over the top. Santos trying to get close, pressing forward. Foreman ties him up. Now Santos just misses witha left. He's showing some real urgency here, but Foreman's playing it real safe. Now Foreman with a little right hand. Santos following, and Foreman ties him up. Santos just short with a left. If only he'd shown this kind of agression earlier. Nady tells Foreman not to hold. Always nice to see a ref actually doing something about holding. Santos with a left hand that partially lands. "Unless there is some very unusual scoring, if Foreman can stand up for another minute, he'll have achieved something very big for him." - Lampley. Foreman's mouth piece just came out, and his corner put it back in. Santos just walked into a left hand, and down he goes. He's up quickly. 35 seconds to go. Foreman with a right hand that lands. "That probably cements the victory." - Steward. Santos trying to close the gap and Foreman ties him up. Foreman on the move here as the seconds wind down. This one's over.

10:34... The left hand tht put Santos down looked like it landed just behind the ear on the inside.

10:35... We await the cards.

10:36... 116-110, 117-109, 117-109 all for the winner Yuri Foreman.

10:37... I'm guessing the next time we see Santos will be as a middleweight. At his age, you have to assume that all the weight cutting has caught up with him. That wasn't scintillating, but Foreman did what he had to. He stayed away from Santos' left, moved in and out nicely, and won going away.

10:40... Next up is Chavez Jr. vs Rowland.

10:43... Tony Weeks is the ref. No fight night weights for this one.

10:43... We're ready to go.

10:44... Troy Rowland's brother is in a medically induced coma after coming down with swine through. Best wishes to Troy's brother and the Rowland family.

10:46... "Chavez is trying to get to the inside and land his left hook to the body." - Steward. Decent action so far. Both guys fighting it out in the middle of the ring. Rowland just threw a nice flurry downstairs. Lampley comments that Rowland has been the busier of the two fighters. There's the bell.

10:47... Harold gave the opening round to Chavez.

10:50... Larry feels that Chavez while not as busy, is the one landing the heavier shots so far. He's digging hard to the body with the left. he's having the better of things here early in the 2nd. He just landed a decent right hand. Rowland responded with a couple of shots. Lampley points out that Rowland doesn't have much pop. Steward has a feeling that Rowland can't hang in there for too long. He's doing okay so far though. A nice right hand from Rowland with 10 seconds left. Good action in the middle of the ring to end the round. "Both fighters fighting like the other guy can't hurt them." - Larry

10:54... Lampley mentions that Rowland threw 74 punches in both the 1st and 2nd rounds. Steward mentions that while he's busy, his shots just don't have much pop. maybe so, but he's letting his hands go, landing a fair bit, and making a solid fight of it. Chavez with a solid left hook. Action in the middle of the ring. Both guys letting their hands go. "Even though Rowland is landing a lot of punches, Chavez is walking him down." - Steward. "At this weight, I don't think Chavez Jr. is much of a puncher either." - Larry. He's landing that left hook, but it hasn't seemed to bother Rowland much.

10:55... Harold has it 2-1 for Chavez.

10:58... Rowland having a little bit of the better of things early in the 4th. he just backed Chavez up with a flurry. Action now starts to slow a bit. "Rowland definitely not afraid being in Vegas for the first time." - Lampley. "I think this is a disappointing match-up for a big night like this." - Merchant. Rowland doing nicely this round. he's had Chavez backing up, and he's tagging him. Rowland with a couple right hands that land. Chavez tries to flurry as the round comes to a close.

11:02... Harold gave the last round to Chavez. They are battling it out in the middle of the ring, while the HBO crew blathers on about whether or not Margarito's gloves were loaded when he faced Cotto. Chavez digs a nice left hook to the body. Rowland keeps throwing though. he's staying busy, as the two men battle it out. I don't think we've had a cinch so far by the way. Both fighters landing. Rowland has been landing his jab, and his right hand. Chavez' best shots have been his left hook. Each time Chavez lands, Rowland pops him right back. Chavez with a nice right hand. Rowland responds with his own. Chavez with a left hook, followed by a right hand to end the round.

11:03... Harold has it 4-1 for Chavez.

11:06... Steward comments that the absence of a jab is a bit of a worry for Chavez, as he's not a big enough banger to get away with it. Chavez with a decent right hand. Lammpley comments that Rowland's punch output has dropped this round, and he's looking a little tired. Lampley also mentions that the difference in power is audible. Rowland keeps plugging away though. He's sticking the jab, following up with right hands. Going to the body as well. All arm punches, but he's landing shots. Rowland is starting to swell a little around both eyes.

11:07... Merchant just mentioned that Manny Pac is consuming 8,000 calories a day to keep the weight on. Harold has this one 5-1 after 6.

11:10... Harold points out that Rowland's face is starting to bust up. Neither Harold or Lampley though are confident on Chavez' ability to fight world class opposition. Chavez is starting to back Rowland up a bit. he's landing some solid right hands to go with the left hooks. Rowland still throwing back though. Chavez with a decent left hook. Chavez with another left hook. Rowland still plugging away though. Now he fires a right hand, and backs Chavez up, although it looks like Chavez is just taking a bit of a rest. now Chavez responds with a right hand. Chavez with another decent right hand. Rowland looks like he's fading a little.

11:14... 6-1 on Harold's card. Rowland keeps pressing forward here. perhaps he's still got something in his tank. Now Chavez backs him up with a right hand and a left hook. Chavez with a decent right hand. Rowland responds with a 1-2. I think Rowland is a bit tired. Chavez with a flurry as the round comes to a close.

11:17... We're in the 9th round of this one. 2 to go. This round is more of the same. Between rounds, Larry merchant talked with Manny Pacquiao about tonight's fight with Cotto, as well as Z Gorres, the Filipino fighter that Manny co-promotes who was critically injured last night. Manny will be praying for him. You always hate to hear about something like that, and The Boxing Bulletin extends our best wishes to Gorres. Let's hope he pulls through this okay. Larry mentioned that after the interview, Manny came up to him and told him that in the Philippines when he was younger, a fighter died in his arms. "This is what we do. This is what we signed up for." Pac said to Larry.

11:23... Rowland still hanging in there. Chavez Jr. still landing the harder shots. Not much else to say about this one. I think we're definitely seeing some of Chavez Jr's limitations. Very easy to hit, and perhaps not much pop at 160. It's hard to see him as much of a threat to anyone near the top of the division in the near future. Rowland keeps plugging away. "Troy Rowland has fought all the way through this." - Lampley. The final seconds tick away.

11:24... Here's Buffer with the decision. 99-91, 98-92 and 97-93 for Chavez Jr.

11:25... The prelims are over. The main-event awaits.

11:28... Michael Buffer is back. Time for the anthems.

11:36... The Anthems have been performed. We're moments away from the ring walks. No fight night weights by the way. No surprise there, since Cotto is fighting.

11:37... When was the last time Miguel weighed in for HBO? I don't remember. It would be nice though to have some idea of what the actual weight difference is. I'd guess Pac is around 148 and Cotto somewhere around 158.

11:38... Manny has left his dressing room, and is making his way towards the arena.

11:39... Here comes Manny. He's got a grin on his face as he waves his glove to some well wishers.

11:40... Manny looks very relaxed. He's bouncing up and down, and having a hard time holding his smile in as he makes his way towards the ring.

11:41... "Has ever a man smiled so much on route to such a serious task?" - Larry Merchant. Steward says Manny reminds him of Roberto Duran.

11:42... Cotto is now making his way from his dressing room to the arena entrance.

11:43... Quite a contrast between the two men. Cotto is almost expressionless.

11:43... "This is a very serious individual." - Lampley "Very serious and very realistic." - Steward

11:44... Here's Buffer again with the intros.

11:45... Buffer is going through the sponsors.

11:46... Byrd, Ford and Moretti are the judges. Kenny Bayless is the man in charge.

11:47... The intros are over. The crowd is buzzing. This one is mere moments from getting underway.

11:48... Bayless with the final instructions.

11:51... We're underway. Both guys sizing each other up in the middle. Cotto with a solid jab to start. Pac flicks out his jab. Cotto leans in with a hook that misses. Now Manny with a little right hand that glances. Cotto is short with a right hand. ACtion in the middle of the ring. Both men lookin for openings. pac probing with the jab. He just misses with a left. Steward comments that Cotto is pushing Pac back when he jabs. manny comes forward and lands a straight left. Steward feels it was blocked. Cotto edging forward behind the jab, and tries to dig to the body. Cotto short with a jab. 1:00 to go. There's our first clinch. manny is short with a left. Cotto commanding the middle of the ring, while Pac circles to his left. Cotto with a little flurry on the inside. Cotto misses with a hook and Pac lands a counter. pac with a left to the body. Cotto fires back, but misses with a body shot. There's the bell.

11:52... Cotto's corner is happy with their man's opening round.

11:55... Harold has it 1-0 for Cotto. manny is short with a straight left. Cotto is short again. Cotto tries to counter, but he's short with his return fire. Cotto edges forward, working behind the jab. Now Manny lands a left hand up the middle. Cotto fires the jab out there. Manny moving to his left. Cotto with a left to the body, and Manny responds with a left. Manny with another left. Cotto tries to dig the body, and then lands a jab. manny with a nice combo up the middle. Manny with another nice combo and catches Cotto with a left hand. Cotto fires back with a body shot. Now Manny with another straight left. Cotto with a solid left hook that got Manny's attention. Cotto edges forward, and fires a right hand to the body. Bayless warns him to keep it up. Pac walks forward and fires a hard left hand up the middle. Cotto fires to the body. Pac digs hard to the body. Pac with another shot to the body and Pac with a very quick combo. Pac having a very good stretch here. Pac with another straight left. Cotto tries to dig to the body. Pac with another hard left hand. Pac with a nice combo. Cotto fires back hard with a right. Cotto digs to the body. There's the ball. Fantastic action over the final minute of the 2nd.

11:56... Cotto's corner not so happy after this round. "Use your jab!"

11:59... 1-1 on Harold's card. Cotto comes out trying to push Manny back with the jab like his corner asked. Manny circles away to his left. Cotto again firing out the jab. Cotto with a glancing hook. Manny with a right hook that lands. Manny with a straight left. Cotto with a jab. manny with a right hook and down goes Cotto! He's up quickly though. Bayless counts to 8. Cotto says he's okay. We're back at it. Manny sticks a jab to the Cotto's body and circles away. That looked more of a flash knockdown than anything else. Now Cotto with a left hook that lands. Cotto trying to back Manny up here. Manny fires back though. Cotto digs to the body with a hook. Cotto with another solid body shot. Manny with a left hand. Manny with a right hook. Cotto digs to the body, and there's a clash of heads. Now Cotto rips the body with a combo. Cotto pressing manny back here, but Manny circles away. manny flicks out his jab. Manny misses with a combo. Manny with a left hand that is short, and Cotto lands a solid counter hook. Cotto with a combo upstairs. Cotto with a solid uppercut. Now Cotto rakes Manny's body. Cotto is fighting back hard since the knockdown. There's a clinch and Cotto pushes manny's head down. There's the bell. Heck of a round.

12:00... Cotto had a real strong close to the round. Landed some heavy shots. Freddy Roach is not happy about it. "Stop fighting his fight!"

12:04... 2-1 on Harold's card for manny. 29-27. Cotto comes out aggressively here in the 3rd, backing Mannyup with the jab. Manny circles away. Both lookin for openings. Cotto digs hard to the body, and then lands a hook upstairs. Now Manny fires back with a left hand. Manny with a body shot. "Pac seems to be taking Cotto's shots well." - Merchant. Now there's a clinch and Bayless quickly gets the action moving. Pac with a nice combo. Cotto presses forward with the jab. Cotto just short with a hook to the body. Now Manny with a straight left to the body. A big combo from Manny. Cotto responds with a left. Manny fires back with his left. Now Cotto pushes Pac back, and fluries with Pac along the ropes. Pac with the gloves up, taking this flurry. Steward thinks Manny is taking a breather. Now Manny fires back. Cotto presses forward though and keeps Manny's back to the ropes. manny finally circles away. Now manny fires back and lands a big left hand. manny with a big counter right hook! Down goes Cotto!! Cotto is up quickly again. he looked a bit hurt though. manny tries to press his advantage, but there's the bell! This is FANTASTIC stuff! Tremendous action so far.

12:04... It was a left hand that put Cotto down.

12:07... Cotto comes pressing forward to start the 5th. Cotto trying to work the jab, as Pac circles away. Cotto with a decent right hand. Pac takes it well and slips away. Cotto with a solid jab. Pac circling to his left. Cotto pressing forward behind the jab. manny moving from side to side, looking for opening. Now Pac explodes with a 1-2 combo that lands. he makes Cotto miss and drills him with a left. he lands a solid hook. Lampley thinks Cotto is slowing down. "His punches don't have the same snap." Action now in the middle of the ring. "Pac's 2 hands have been better than Cotto's 1." - Merchant. Cotto just landed a decent little uppercut. Manny catches him with a right on the way in though. Manny with a left, and Cotto lands a shot to the body. Now Cotto presses Pac back agaist the ropes and lands an uppercut. Cotto with a solid uppercut. Pac with a straight left. Pac with a jab. Pac just misses with a straight left. Cotto tries to respond and they clinch. Pac tries to flurry at the end of the round, and there's the bell.

12:08... Roach is telling Pac to "back him up with the in and out motion." Cotto's corner is trying to build up his spirits. "You can do it. You can turn it around."

12:12... harold gave the 5th to Cotto. he's got Pac up by 3 points. Cotto treis to press forward behind the jab, and throws his right. Steward comments that pac is just fresher and crisper with his punches. The crew commented between rounds that Cotto's corner sounded desperate. manny with a nice combo, punctuated with a hard left. Manny with another combo. Manny with a left. Cotto responds with a left. Pac with a right hook. pac jumps in and almost got caught with a hook. But he lands a hard shot, and then backs Cotto up. pac with a a big right hook. Pac with a straight left. Manny with a jab. Manny with another straight left that lands. Cotto comes back and just misses with a hard left hook. Pac responds with a combo and backs Cotto into the ropes. Cotto gets out of there though. Pac with a digging body shot. There's a clinch. A nice exchange in the middle of the ring where they both land shots. Cotto comes forward and firs a combo into the gloves. Cotto with a jab. manny with a jab, and Cotto misses witha counter hook. manny presses forward and nearly puts Cotto down with a solid left. Cotto responds though with a solid right. Manny grins as he walks away.

12:12... Cotto's corner is telling him to stay off the ropes and jab and move.

12:15... Harold has Pac up 4-2 and by 4 points overall. Harold is raving about Pac as he gives his score. pac with a solid right hook that lands. pac with a big flurry. Cotto tries to fire back, and they clinch. Cotto is warned for pushing Pac's head down in the clinch. Pac with a jab, and a left hand. pac with another jab. Cotto tries to dig the body, as pac circles away. Pac with a left hand. pac just beating Cotto to the punch over and over. Cotto tries to fight back by digging the body. pac with a right hook. Pac with a combo. "It doesn't look good for Cotto." - Steward. "It looks like just a matter of time." - Lampley. Cotto tries to fire back. he's now on his toes tryng to fight fromt he outside. Manny is stalking. Cotto is the one circling on the defensive. Cotto stops and tries to fire a hook, but it's blocked. Manny with a left hand. Manny with a hook. Cotto is trying to win this from a distance with his jab, and it's not happening.

12:16... Manny's father give the thumbs up to the HBO cameras.

12:16... A member of the commission went to Cotto's corner between rounds just to check on him. Cotto told him he was fine.

12:19... 5-2 on Harold's card after 7. 5 point difference for Pac. Cotto trying to work the jab here early in the 8th. He's on his toes. Circling away from Pac. Pac looking for openings as he edges forward. Manny with his gloves up catches Cotto's fire as Cotto stopped to throw a combo. Manny stalking, as Cotto circling away to his left. Manny catches Cotto on the way in with a jab. Cotto circles away again. manny with a jab, and a straight left. Cotto fires back with a 1-2 of his own. Manny is pressing forward here. He catches Cotto wtiha right hook. Now he drilles Cotto with a left hand. Cotto is backing away. "He seems to be in full tactical retreat." - Larry on Cotto. Cotto on his toes, backing up and circling away. Manny catches him with a left hand. Cotto with a decent right hand as he catches Pac coming in. Pac with a combo. pac pushes Cotto back againt the ropes and lands a flurry. Cotto gets away and backs away to the other side of the ring. There's the bell.

12:20... Cotto needs to do something here. he can't just back away and give these rounds up. He needs to try and make one big stand and go for it.

12:23... Steward says if he was in Cotto's corner he would be thinking about stopping the fight. 6-2 on harold's card after 8. manny with a left hand. Cotto tries to fire back with a combo. Now Cotto bangs the body. Manny responds with a left hand. Cotto standing his ground a bit more here. Cotto lands a jab. Action in the middle of the ring. Cotto with a decent hook, and then circles away. Cotto now on his toe again. now Cotto tries to come forward witha flurry. manny fires back with a combo and lands a hard left uppercut. Now Manny bangs Cotto with another flurry and forces Cotto intot he corner. manny trying to unload as Cotto backs up. Cotto tries to counter, but he's too slow. Manny pushes Cotto into the ropes again and flurries with both hands. Cotto gets out of there and backs away. Manny chases him down and lands a hard left. Manny with another hard left. Cotto is in retreat here. Cotto land a decent combo, but manny just fires back and again chases Cotto into the ropes. now they clinch. Cotto trying to jab and move. Manny following him. Manny firing his jab. manny with a hard left hand. Cotto backs away. Manny is chasing. Cotto is backing from one side of the ring to the other. It's all Manny here. Cotto is taking a beating.

12:24... Cotto's corner is going to give him 1 more round.

12:27... Cotto's wife and son left the arena at the end of the last round. 7-2 on Harold's card. Harold says that they should stop this fight. Larry feels that Cotto deserves the chance to go out on his terms. Cotto misses with a left hook. Pac patiently stalking. Pac lands the jab as he comes forward. Cotto misses with a jab. Cotto tries to flurry wtih a combo. Cotto with a hook that is blocked. manny edges froward as Cotto cirles away to his left. This has been a slow round so far. Steward feels Pac is taking a breather. Now Pac starts to attack and Cotto circles away. Pac pressing forward now. Cotto dances away to his left. Cotto tries to fire back but not much on his shots here. Pac fires a straight left that lands. Pac presses Cotto into the ropes, but Cotto flurries and gets out of there. 30 seconds left in the round. Cotto with a flurry intot he gloves. Pac with a left hand. Cotto with a decent combo that lands. pac tries to flurry as the round comes to a close. He lands a straight left just as the bell rings.

12:28... Cotto's corner wants another round like the previous one.

12:31... We're in the 11th. 8-2 on Harold's card. Lampley is pondering Mayweather vs Manny. Cotto is moving from side to side here. Pac is following. Pac looking for openings as he follows. Cotto on his toes, circling away. Cotto with a hook that is way short. Pac probing witht he jab as Cotto backs away. Now Manny gets Cotto on the ropes and rakes him to the body with a combo. Now manny flurries upstairs and Cotto backs away. Manny looking to attack here. Cotto fires a jab in there and moves away. Manny lands a right hand as he backs Cotto up. Cotto is in full retreat. 1:00 to go in the 11th. manny again gets Cotto along the ropes and flurries, but Cotto gets out of there. manny with a jab. Cotto backing up. Manny now stands in the middle of the ring and tries to get Cotto to come to him. He doesn't and manny gets back to following. Cotto on his toes, backing away, moving from side the side. Manny with a jab as he chases Cotto. The crowd starting to boo here.

12:32... Cotto's face is a swollen bloody mess.

12:32... Cotto's corner is telling him to keep with the plan. The survival plan I assume.

12:34... Manny chases after Cotto to start the 12th. Cotto back away. Cotto in full retreat. Pac looks at Cotto and then looks at Bayless, perhaps wondering what the point of this continuing is. Manny with a hard left hand as Cotto backs away. manny immediately tries to press his advantage and Bayless showing very good judgment, jumps in there and stops it. We didn't need to see Cotto laid out. Good move from Bayless. This one's over. A masterful performance from the best fighter in the world.

12:35... Lampley asks if Pac is good enough to beat Floyd? Let's hope we get to see it in the near future.

12:36... Michael Buffer with the official announcement. 55 seconds of round 12 is the time of the stoppage.

12:38... I imagine Larry will be with the winner shortly.

12:40... Here's Larry with Manny. "Our plan for the fight was to be careful in the early rounds." - Manny. Larry asks if Cotto ever hurt him. "I was trying to test his power in the early rounds. I wanted to get hit in the body and the head. Then when I wanted to control the fight, I got aggressive.

12:41... "I heard he was bigger and stronger than me. That's why I wanted to fight him toe to toe." Larry asks Manny what his thoughts were late in the fight. "I made sure I was cautious. He was looking for a big shot. I kept pressuring, but I was careful of his counters."

12:42... Merchant asks Manny about a potential Mayweather fight. "My job is to fight in the ring. It's up to my promoter Arum to negotiate that fight."

12:43... Manny tells Merchant that he won't be going up to 154, after Merchant asks if this is the last weight class Manny intends to compete in.

12:45... Freddy Roach is now with Merchant. "Early in the fight, he was laying on the ropes a bit too much, but he eventually got into his rhythm." Roach admits he was a little worried early in the fight when Cotto was landing some decent shots.

12:45... Roach wants Mayweather next for Manny.

12:47... Cotto is now with Merchant. Larry asks Cotto if Manny's ability to hit him with shots he couldn't see make a big difference. Cotto acknowledges that it was key. "Manny is one of the best of all-time." - Miguel

12:47... Merchant asks Cotto if he will continue to fight. "Yes, I will."

12:49... That's it for our coverage of tonight's show. I hope you enjoyed it, and please check us out again for more of our live round by round blog coverage.

Manny Pacquiao vs Miguel Cotto Predictions

2009-11-13T18:53:00.000-05:00

The most anticipated fight of the year is just about here. Just one more night until Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto will do battle at the MGM Grand in Vegas.

The fighters weighed in a little less than an hour ago, with Cotto tipping the scales at the agreed upon limit of 145 pounds. Pacquiao came in 1 pound under the limit at 144.

Let's get to our writer's picks...

Manny Pacquaio vs Miguel Cotto

A lot of the common perceptions of this fight come from each man's two previous bouts (excluding Jenning's for Cotto). I think of it this way; how would Cotto have looked against De La Hoya and Hatton? How would Pacquiao have looked against Margarito and Clottey? I believe Cotto would have put Oscar on the floor and dismantled Hatton much like Pacquiao did, though perhaps more methodically. Pacquiao probably would only survive the Margarito that busted up Cotto by running and should he have suffered a cut like that against Clottey he may have shown more fold than Cotto.

So, all that, only to say this; I think this fight is a 50-50 prospect. I could see a blowout either way, and I could see a tooth and nail, knockdown, drag-out firefight. I'll go out on a slight limb and say that Pac's high earmuff defense betrays him on the ropes and Cotto damages Pacquiao to the body. This, after he takes Pacquiao's best and stalks him down like the Cotto of yore. Cotto ought to play Duran here, winging borderline shots and being as rough as can be. When Barrera turned punk in the Manny rematch, Pac didn't respond well, and it wasn't the first time he's been thrown off his game by chippy gamesmanship or a cut. Whatever happens I hope the fight is a classic and both men are elevated by nights end. Again, in a fight that could swing either way, I'll take Cotto by TKO.

- Jeff Pryor

Check out Jeff's Preview of the fight: The Rise & Fall of Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto

I'm picking Pacquaio. Too fast and too sharp. This is a great little man against a good - but vulnerable - big man.

That said, do I think Cotto can win? Yes. But to do so, I think he needs to show the type of fearlessness missing from his recent performances. He's the bigger man here, and he needs to really fight like it... press forward behind the jab, work the body hard, maybe get a little rough in the process and keep Manny on his back foot. Yeah, that kind of aggressiveness might mean he walks into something really damaging early, but I think it gives him a fighting chance... certainly a much better chance than trying to out-box Manny.

- Andrew Fruman

I see the fight being very competitive, Cotto has been written off by a lot of people and most fans think Pacquiao will destroy him. I believe they are massively underrating Cotto, this is a fighter who's only been beaten once (in a somewhat controversial manner) and has 27 knockouts on his record – he’s no mug.

There’s always been a doubt about Cotto's chin but it's looked much better at 147 than it did at 140, and we're yet to see how well Pacquaio can take a shot from a genuine welterweight. I believe both fighters have the ability knock one another out but I've got a gut feeling that Cotto will be the victor. The end could come early or late but if I was pushed to pick, I’d say the end will come somewhere between rounds four and six.

- Dave Oakes

I see Pacquiao beating Cotto to the punch with his straight left hand from the opening bell. Cotto will score some here and there during some exciting exchanges but Pacquiao will dominate this fight on the cards and bust up Miguel’s face en route to a mid to late round stoppage. I hope I’m wrong and the fight meets the world’s expectations. But I’m expecting another clinic from Mr. Pacquiao.

- Mark Lyons

I got Pacquiao winning by either late TKO or decision though I can certainly see Cotto winning by knockout. Both are likely to get busted up, but I disagree with the notion that Cotto handles facial damage better. He tends to fight off his back foot when his vision or breathing becomes compromised and he won't beat Manny that way.

The main advantage Pacquiao has though is that Cotto is left hand dominant; his right hand isn't nearly as powerful and the fighters who give Manny the most fits have very strong right hands.

- Michael Nelson

As much as I will be hoping for Cotto to win I just can't see Miguel being able to handle Pacquiao's speed. Cotto has also shown a suspect chin in the past and I have my doubts about his ability to absorb Pacman's shots. I also don't believe he's mentally the same fighter he was before the Margarito fight.

My prediction... Pacquiao either stops Cotto sometime after round 9, or wins by decision.

- Ivan Montiel

Pacquiao is too fast, and Cotto will get tagged, no matter what style he plans on using. I'll take Manny by TKO in 8, in a fight that should be fun while it lasts.

- Lee Payton

British Scene: Matthew Hatton vs Lovemore N'dou Preview

2009-11-11T17:00:00.001-05:00

Dave Oakes previews Friday night's welterweight match-up between Matthew Hatton and Lovemore N'dou.

Photo © Marty Rosengarten / Ringsidephotos.com

It must be hard fighting in the shadow of your brother for the whole of your career, but Matthew Hatton has the chance to step out of the shadow and enhance his reputation as a fighter in his own right this Friday night, when he takes on former world title holder and the current IBF #15 rated Lovemore N’dou at the Fenton Manor Sports Complex, Stoke.

N’dou, 47-11-1 (KO31), is the far more experienced fighter, he’s been a pro since 1993 and has fought much better opponents than Hatton has. He’s been in with five world champions – Junior Witter, Sharmba Mitchell, Miguel Cotto, Kermit Cintron and Paul Malignaggi, who he’s fought twice. He lost against all five but has always proved to be a hard opponent.

The high point of N’dou’s career came when he defeated Naoufel Ben Rabah to win the light-welterweight world title. N’dou and Ben Rabah put on a wonderful display of courage and passion, both fighters gave everything, but in the end it was N’dou’s superior fitness and chin that helped him survive the ferocious exchanges to outlast Ben Rabah. He lost the title in disappointing style in his next bout, a wide points defeat against Paul Malignaggi, before coming close to recapturing it, narrowly losing on a split decision against Malignaggi.

Hatton’s career has been a slow burner so far; he’s been a pro for nine years but has only ventured into domestic title class once, a points defeat to Craig Watson in a Commonwealth title fight eighteen months ago. He’s been criticised for being a protected fighter but what a lot of people fail to realise is that he hardly had any fights as an amateur before turning pro. It’s been a case of learning on the job for the younger Hatton.

The added pressure of being a Hatton has also put him under more pressure and in the spotlight more than most fighters. Having an older brother as famous as Ricky has been both a help and a hindrance for Matthew. Big things were expected of him purely because of his name and he’s received a lot of criticism for not setting the world alight like Ricky did when he turned pro. That said, he’s had the benefit of being on the undercard of big fight cards on both sides of the pond and has benefited from training in the same gym as Ricky.

Hatton, 37-4-1 (KO14), has gone four undefeated since the defeat to Watson, including wins against tough veterans Ben Tackie and Ted Bami. He seems to be improving as a fighter but still lacks versatility and punch variety; he only looks comfortable fighting at mid-range and seems content to throw jabs and straight rights for the most part.

N’Dou is ten years Hatton’s senior at 38 and has been there, done it and bought the t-shirt. It remains to be seen as to how much he’s got left in the tank at this stage of his career; he’s showed no major signs of deterioration as yet, although, I’ve got a feeling Hatton may be facing him at the perfect time.

I’d be extremely surprised if the fight ended early, N’dou’s got a granite chin and Hatton has never been in serious trouble in his career either. I believe Hatton will make the better start; out-jabbing and out-working N’dou before surviving a spirited late charge by the Australian based South African to edge a close and maybe controversial points decision.

e-mail Dave Oakes

One More Round With Mark Lyons: Dawson, Haye & Pacquiao/Cotto

2009-11-10T15:08:00.002-05:00

Mark Lyons is back with his take on some recent and upcoming fights.

Photo © Ray Kasprowicz

Another dominant, yet criticized performance from Chad Dawson (pictured right) and a farce of a PPV card on Friday night. There is a new alphabet title holder at Heavyweight and everyone is ready for the big one this weekend.

My Take on Last Weekend's Fights...

-- Chad Dawson may well be the best boxer in the world. While he remains unknown to the casual fan, he is becoming quite a polarizing figure in hard core boxing circles. He doesn’t hold and he doesn’t run, but most fans are always expecting and wanting more from him. Knocking out Glen Johnson is something that shouldn’t be expected of any fighter but that doesn’t stop people from complaining that he didn’t.

-- Dawson boxed beautifully from the outset, controlled the distance and peppered the Road Warrior with crisp jabs and body shots. Never once was he in any danger and I saw a resounding victory against a man that many thought beat him in their first fight. Color me impressed by not just his incredible skils, but his ability to adapt.

-- David Haye got the job done against the giant. But his bark was way louder than his bite in what was truly a dreadful fight. Hearing that he hurt his hand early makes his tactics more understandable, but it doesn’t give me back that thirty six minutes. With Ruiz on deck, Haye is in danger of another stinker and getting a reputation for engaging in boring fights. That wouldn’t really be fair after his thrilling Cruiserweight run, but like life, boxing is never really fair. Here is hoping he smashes Ruiz in style. But that is far easier said than done.

-- Yes, I watched the Judah/Casamayor card. The most entertaining moment was a ten minute interview with Erik Estrada by the way out of his element Michael Marley. Needless to say I didn’t agree with Marley about Judah’s low blow knockout being electrifying.

Looking Ahead To This Weekend...

-- Fight fans are buzzing for this Saturday night as Manny Pacquiao takes on Miguel Cotto at what I feel is a ridiculous catch weight. If the belt's on the line, the champ shouldn't have to weigh in 2 pounds under the division limit. That being said, it’s two of the best P4P fighters in the world and that is reason for excitement.

-- Cotto is a warrior and really is everything good about the sport. He seems to be stuck in a bizarre style transition where he isn’t sure if he is a boxer or a slugger. His only chance in this fight is to bore inside with almost reckless abandon and try to rough Manny up in close. I’m reading people talk about Miguel’s jab being a key and I don’t see him having any success with that punch. He needs to use it, but just as a means to get inside and not as a weapon. Body work is his key to victory.

-- Pacquiao, just has to be Pacquiao. Using his blazing speed of hand and foot to get there first and take advantage of Cotto’s shoddy footwork. Cotto is not capable of moving and punching at the same time, which is absolute hell against a guy like pacquiao who can change his angles in the blink of an eye. The only real question for me is how Manny will respond to a Welterweights punch, he hasn’t been hit by anybody since he left Jr. lightweight.

-- I see Pacquiao beating Cotto to the punch with his straight left hand from the opening bell. Cotto will score some here and there during some exciting exchanges but pacquaio will dominate this fight on the cards and bust up Miguel’s face en route to a mid to late round stoppage. I hope I’m wrong and the fight meets the world’s expectations. But I’m expecting another clinic from Mr. Pacquaio.

A Fight I’ve been Thinking About...

In lieu of Kelly Pavlik’s apparent desire to never stare across the ring at Paul Williams, lets look at a Middleweight that would relish the opportunity.The highly underrated and extremely rugged Mustapha Hamsho. While Paul has dealt with the pressure of a Margarito, Hamsho’s was of a different variety. His head was in your chest and he could smother Williams on the inside while Paul would enjoy a decided advantage at midrange and outside. In an exciting and bruising affair it will really come down to the judges preference. I’ll take two of three judges to reward Williams more aesthetically pleasing work and he gets a hard earned split nod in a fight that could go either way. One thing is for sure, it will go the distance and they both will almost certainly spill blood.

e-mail Mark Lyons

British Scene Weekend Recap: McCloskey & Sexton Win in Northern Ireland

2009-11-09T15:41:00.000-05:00

Matt Chudley recaps this past weekend's British boxing action.

Friday saw mixed fortunes for two of Northern Irelands most popular fighters as Paul McCloskey claimed the European Light-Welterweight title in Magherafelt, while Martin Rogan failed to regain the Commonwealth Heavyweight title less than 40 miles away in Belfast.

First to enter the ring on the night was McCloskey, who found himself in a favourable matchup against Daniel Rasilla for the European strap after champion Souleymane M'Baye withdrew less than two weeks before.

Giving away 3 inches in height to the Spaniard, McCloskey swept the first three rounds with the greater volume and accuracy as he bobbed and weaved from side to side in his customary style to avoid the oncoming. Renowned for his sharp reflexes, the local fighter’s quicker hands allowed him to fire out a more authoritative range finder, as he managed to out-jab the taller Spaniard in the early going, while showing more pop as well.

In the 4th, a slightly discouraged Rasilla started to open up, and McCloskey responded by bringing his right hook into play, briefly stunning Rasilla at the back end of the round.

Unable to cause any serious punishment with Rasilla pressed up against the ropes on a couple of occasions in the 5th and 6th rounds, the Dungiven southpaw became more patient in his approach and looked to pick Rasilla apart as opposed to pressuring him.

McCloskey's patience was rewarded in the 9th when he caught his wide open opponent with a short counter right on the inside that put the man from Santander down. With plenty of time left in the round, McCloskey missed with a few wild uppercuts before catching Rasilla coming in again, this time with a straight left. The second knockdown prompted Rasilla's handlers to enter the ring and save him from any further punishment.

Improving to 20(10)-0, McCloskey can now look forward to bigger fights against the likes of Junior Witter, Souleymane M'Baye and Andreas Kotelnik, who all occupy the upper echelons of the European rankings.

Another possibility for the Matchroom Sport fighter is a clash with the winner of Matchroom’s December 4th edition of the prizefighter tournament which features 140lb fighters, 3 of which are already ranked by the EBU.

Over in Belfast, Martin Rogan once again found himself at a packed out Odyssey arena despite a much less stellar supporting cast than his last visit. Spurred on by his massive support, he came out more aggressively than the previous fight and tried to throw a barrage of hooks to the body of Sexton, who had seemed to have some stamina issues last time out.

With Rogan wanting to work on the inside, the 25 year old champion did his best to hamper the action in close by holding, while trying to keep the fight at longer range where he could use his snappy jab and straighter punches.

The best punch of the early going was a solid right from Sexton in the 3rd which stunned Rogan, but Sexton noticeably slowed down in the next two rounds. An overhand right in close quarters shook him in the 5th, but Rogan smothered much of his follow up attack, and the 38 year old challenger was unable to capitalise.

After composing himself in the interval, Sexton settled back into the contest with his trusty jab and began to catch Rogan with right hands as the 6th wore on. The closing moments of the round saw a despondent Rogan with his hands low and his head bowed.

After returning to his corner with a look of resignation, trainer Paul McCullough was left with little choice but to pull his fighter after a distant Rogan offered nothing back, later citing an arm injury.

With the loss, it looks like Rogan's unlikely run in the heavyweight division may have come to an end. If that’s the case, it’s still fairly remarkable what he’s been able to accomplish after turning pro at 33 years of age.

With the contest doubling as a British title eliminator, Sexton can look forward to challenging an old and shop worn Danny Williams for the Lonsdale belt next.

On the under-cards...

On the undercard in Magherafelt, British featherweight champ Martin Lindsay improved to 15-0 with an 8 round shutout of Ghanian Alfred Tetteh, while the 22 year old Barry McGuigan managed 122lb prospect Carl Frampton advanced to 3-0 with a third round stoppage win over 1-6-2 Hungarian Ignac Kassai.

In Belfast, local favourite and former WBO welterweight challenger Neil Sinclair (33-7) dispatched 38 year old Hungarian Janos Petrovics (18-29) with a vicious body attack, eventually forcing the referee’s stoppage in the 4th round.

e-mail Matt Chudley

Round by Round Blog: Chad Dawson vs Glen Johnson II, plus Angulo vs Yorgey

2009-11-07T18:45:00.059-05:00

Welcome to The Boxing Bulletin's live blog coverage of HBO's Championship Boxing Show, featuring the rematch between Chad Dawson and Glen Johnson. Also on the bill is a junior-middleweight clash between Alfredo Angulo and Harry Joe Yorgey.

The HBO broadcast starts at 9:30 PM EST, and we'll be doing detailed round by round updates for both fights.

If you're watching at home, please feel free to contribute by posting your scores and opinions of the fights.

Chad Dawson 28-0 (175) vs Glen Johnson 49-12-2 (173 1/2)

Alfredo Angulo 16-1 (153 1/2) vs Harry Joe Yorgey 22-0-1 (153 1/4)

Refresh this page often as updates will be frequent

6:45 PM EST... Check back in with us at 9:30 PM EST for the start of the show, as round by round coverage will begin with Angulo vs Yorgey.

9:20... Coverage will start in 10 minutes.

9:31... The show's starting. Updates will begin momentarily.

9:35... With Angulo's fight up first, Lampley and Kellerman are going over the top names at 154 to start the show.

9:36... Angulo is 164 tonight, while Yorgey has re-hydrated to 166.

9:37... The fighters are in the ring, and the introductions are underway.

9:38... From Bridgeport, PA... Harry Joe Yorgey.

9:38... From Mexicali, Mexico... Alfredo Angulo.

9:39... We're ready to go.

9:42... Manny Steward is joining Kellerman and Lampley in the booth. Angulo coming forward, with Yorgey fighting from the outside to start things off. Angulo presses forward, firing hooks and rights and pushes Yorgey into the ropes. Yorgey slips away, but Angulo keeps the pressure on. Yorgey moving side to side, as Angulo presses. Yorgey flicking jabs out from the outside. Angulo with his elbows tucked, and gloves up, edging forward. He's sticking out the jab as he moves in. 1:30 to go in the round. Yorgey keeping his distance here. Angulo jabbing his way in, and then hooking to the body. Yorgey trying to jab and move. Angulo backs Yorgey into the ropes, and unloads and lands a solid right. Yorgey on the move, Anuglo stalking. Yorgey trying to counter off the ropes, but he's not doing anything to keep Angulo honest right now. Angulo digging in as he pushes Yorgey to the ropes to end the round.

9:47... I don't think this one's going to last too long. Angulo's closing the distance and managing to unload in close when he does. Round 2 underway. Harold has it 1-0 for Angulo. Yorgey moving to his left, then to his right, and flicks out a jab. Angulo pumps the jab as he moves forward. Yorgey backs into the ropes and then fires a combo, but Angulo keeps stalking. Angulo jabbing his way in, and Yorgey slides away to his right. Angulo lands a right to the body. Angulo presses Yorgey into the ropes and fires a right. Yorgey gets out of there, but Angulo is on him right away and gets him along the ropes again. Yorgey is strictly fighting from the outside, while Angulo stalks. Angulo with a hard shot with Yorgey along the ropes. That hurt him. Anuglo goes after him. Yorgey in trouble along the ropes. Angulo pouring it on and down goes Yorgey. He's up, and takes the count. He's on the move, but Angulo's after him hard. Yorgey is in bad trouble. Angulo is pouring it on, landing hard shots. Hooks, right hands, shots to the body. Yorgey is in desperate trouble, as he can't keep distance. Angulo pouring it on with Yorgey on the ropes. Yorgey to his credit is trying to fight back, but he's taking a real beating here. There's the bell.

9:47... It was a hard right hand that hurt Yorgey.

9:49... Angulo immediately starts chasing to start round 3. Yorgey is in trouble, but he's fighting back. He's taking a beating though, and down he goes. He's up immediately, but the ref should really think about stopping this. Angulo pours it on, as Yorgey retreats to the ropes. He's getting pounded here. The ref would be very wise to stop it. Angulo with a huge right hand and down goes Yorgey. He's out.

9:50... Yorgey really didn't need to take that last shot. He was in desperate trouble BEFORE the round started. When he went down early, it was enough. There was no need for that final flurry. Why let a fighter clearly out of his depth take all that extra punishment??

9:50... That was vicious. It was a left hand, right hand combination that ended the fight. Yorgey is finally up. Good to see he's okay.

9:51... The official time - 1:03 of round 3.

9:57... There was an odd sequence late in the 2nd round which I should mention. Not sure exactly what happened, as I was struggling to type as fast as the action, but I just took another look. Yorgey was on the ropes, and kind of turned around as he came off the ropes and Angulo hit him in the back of the head. The ref came between them and Yorgey retreated to the other corner, and Angulo didn't chase, but seemed to wait for the ref to rule, but the ref backed off and the action started up again.

10:00... We just got a shot of Johnson and Dawson warming up in their dressing rooms. They both look ready to go, so despite the short nature of the first fight, it looks like this one might be starting reasonabl soon.

10:04... I just watched the first knockdown from the second round again. Very questionable decision making from the ref. Yorgey was clearly down, being held up by the ropes and Angulo was teeing off on him, and the ref didn't do a thing. Oh well... not like the result would have been any different, but the man in charge certainly didn't do Yorgey any favors.

10:05... Dawson is 191 tonight, and Johnson is 189. Supposedly Dawson is intersted in fighting in the super six. Hard to imagine him getting all the way down to 168, if he's re-hyrdating all the way up to 191. I think he was around 185 for Tarver II. Either way, it looks like he's filled into a big light heavy.

10:07... Glen Johnson has just stepped into the ring. He's decked out all in yellow, with black trim.

10:08... Dawson is making his entrance. He's in black, with orange trim.

10:09... Mark Lichtenfeld with the introductions.

10:10... Michael Ortega is the ref.

10:11... Johnson looks all business as his name is announced.

10:11... Chad Dawson gets a nice ovation. He's the hometown man.

10:12... Final instructions have been given. We're ready to go.

10:15... Here we go. Johnson immediately begins moving forward. He lands an early right hand. Johnson circling away to his right. Dawson flicking his right jab out. Johnson pressing forward. He's firing the jab, and then coming with the right hand. Dawson staying at long range for now. He's flicking mostly jabs. Glen with his gloves up, pressing forward. He flicks a jab out, and then lands a right hand. Action in the middle of the ring now. Dawson sticking out his right, but not getting close enough to really land it. He's cautious so far. Johnson with a right hand over the top. Dawson with a jab, and a straihgt left to the body. Dawson flicking the jabs out. Now he lands a left hand. Johnson short with a right hand. Dawson comes back with a left, but is short. Johnson moving his head, as he flicks the jab, and tries to comg in with a right hand. Dawson backs away as it misses. Dawson now lands a left hand. Chad doing better in the last minute of the round, while Johnson had the better of things early. There's the bell.

10:15... Dawson's corner tell him they want to see more jabs.

10:16... Glen's corner also wants to see him jabbing.

10:19... Lampley is spouting off punch-stat numbers. Harold has it 1-0 for Dawson. Action in the middle of the ring to start the 2nd. Johnson edging forward, as Dawson slides away to his right. Dason sticking the jab in there. Glen following, trying to get in range. Glen is short with a jab. Dawson is short with a counter left. Johnson with a jab. Dawson misses a left. Dawson sticking home a jab. Glen just misses with a right hand. Now he misses again as he shoots it over the top. Johnson short with a right hand. Dawson flicking out the jab, keeping Johnson from getting off here. Dawson lands a left. Johnson with a jab, and fires a right to the body. Glen edging forward, and is short with another right, as Dawson slips away to his right. Johnson is flicking out the jab, "pawing with it" Lampley points out. Dawson with a left hand. Now Johnson with a right to the body. Johnson now pushes Dawson to the ropes and tries to flurry, but Dawson gets out of there. Now Dawson responds with a nice combo. There's the bell.

10:19... Might be my imagination, but Glen looks like he's pushing his shots a bit. Doesn't seem to have the sting he did during the first fight.

10:23... Round 3. Harold's got it 2-0. Not sure about the first, but Dawson definitely won the 2nd. Dawson with a combo, and slides away to his right. Johnson follows. Dawson flicks the jab out, and Johnson tries to fire a right hand but misses. Dawson moving from side to side, keeping Johnson from getting set and loading up. Johnson follows, and gets tagged with a left. Dawson with a jab. Johnson is short with a right hand. Johsnon now misses with a right hand as Dawson ducks underneath. Now Dawson unloads with a nice 3 punch combo. Dawson looking good this round. Johsnon follows and fires a jab/right, but Dawson avoids both shots. Dawson now lands another combo. Good round for Chad here. Glen fires a hard right, but misses with it. He's just not finding the range with that right hand. Dawson lands a straight left. Johnson edges forward, and misses with another right. Dawson really keeping his distance nicely. Now he lands a left hand. Johnson keeps following, keeps edging forward, now he tries to flurry, but again Dawson slips away without any damge. They exchange with about 10 seconds left. There's the bell.

10:24... Glen's corner telling him he's got to go to the body.

10:27... Johnson comes out moving forward, while Dawson slides off to his right, now his left, and then again to his right as Glen follows. Dawson flicks the jab out to the body and moves away again. Johnson follows, flicking his jab out and then fires a right hand. Might have glanced off Dawson there. Glen pawing with the jab, and trying to follow up with a right, but misses. Glen now jabs, and fires a right to the body. Action in the middle of the ring. Dawson with a jab, and a left hand. Johnson presses forward, and fires the right, but I don't think it landed. Dawson moves things back to the middle of the ring. Glen flickign the jab out, trying to line up his right hand. Now he bangs a right to the body. DAwson responds with a left. Dawson flicking out the jab and moves. Now DAwson fires a hard left. Johnson comes forward with the jab, and fires the right to the body, but Dawson backs away and it doesn't land. Now Glen misses with a hook. Dawson with a nice jab. Dawson flicking out the jab, and Johnson not so eager to attack at this stage as the round comes to a close. There's the bell.

10:28... Johnson's corner is trying to get their man moving. They are telling him he's down 4 rounds. That might be the case, although he may have taken the opening frame.

10:31... Harold has it 4-0. Johnson pressing forward to start the round. Dawson circling. JOhnson trying to get close, but Dawson slides away to his right. Dawson keeping his distance here. Johnson with a 1-2 that lands. Johnson pressing, with Dawson circling to his right. Now Dawson moves to his left and Johnson chases. Johnson with a right hand to the body. Johnson with a right that misses. Dawson lands a jab and then gets out of there. Now Glen closes the distance, but Dawson immediately gets out of there. Dawson with a combo, and then gets on the move again. Dawson was standing his ground a lot more in the previous rounds. He's strictly on the move in this one. Johnson following, but not having much luck. Glen with a 1-2, and Dawson then slips away. Dawson flickng the jab and moving. Glen with a jab, and tries to go to the body with a right. Dawson throws a left. There's the bell.

10:35... Round 6. Harold has it 5-0 for Dawson. I think Johnson had a good argument for the 5th. Dawson circling and keeping his distance. Johnson following, trying to get close enough to land his right. Dawson is flicking that jab, and keeping Glen from unloading. Now Glen with a nice jab. Glen with a nice right hand downstairs. Action in the middle of the ring here. Dawson flicking the jab out. Glen probing with his jab. Glen just misses with a right hand. Dawson coutners with a left. Johnson with a jab. Glen edging forward, and Dawson slides away to his right. Glen comes forward and I think he landed a right hand. Glen with a jab. DAwson coutners with a left. Dawson with a nice left. Dawson on the move again. Johnson short with a jab, and misses witha right hand. Johson with a right hand, and Dawson lands a counter left. There's the bell.

10:36... Johnson's corner is telling him he hasn't won a round.

10:40... Harold gave Johnson the 6th. He's got it 5-1. Glen pressing forward as usual to start the 7th. Lampley says he think if Johnson's won a round, it was the 5th. I agree with Jim. Johnson moving forward, but Dawson circling and picking his spots nicely. He just landed a nice body shot. Glen is stalking, but just not finding the range. Dawson's moving very nicely, and landing most of the clean punches. Action in the middle of the ring now. Glen is not steadily coming forward as much as he was earlier. Now he edges forward, as Dawson circles away to his right. Dawson with a straight left. Johnson tries to fire back with a right. Glen misses with a right hand. Glen now pawing with the jab as he edges forward. Dawson firing the jab out. There's the bell. Not a thrilling round. Johnson looks like he's slowing down a little, and given what the scorecards probably look like, that doesn't bode well for him.

10:43... 6-1 on Harold's card. I'd guess the official judges have similar scores. Johnson presses forward, but Dawson circles away. Now Dawson stops and fires a combo. Glen gets on the attack, but again Dawson stops and fires a combo. Dawson now with a straight left, and turns Johnson and slips away. Johnson follows, as Dawson moves away to his right. Now Dawson moving to his left, as he flicks a couple of jabs out. Glen now presses Dawson into the ropes and fires a right, but again Dawson slips away. Dawson in control here. Glen edging forward, flicking the jab out and trying to find the range with his right, but he's just not landing it. Dawson nicely slips away to his right, and then peppers Glen with a jab/left. Glen keeps coming though. He jabs to the body and follows as Dawson backs away. Dawson now circles to his right, and pops Johnson with a couple jabs. Johnson fires a right hand, but misses with it. Dawson on the move here and Johnson unable to get close enough to land. There's the bell.

10:44... Lampley just said that this is the closest Johnson has ever looked to being an "old fighter". I'd have to agree. He just doesn't seem to have the same snap on his shots as he did last time. He just looks slower all around.

10:47... Round 9. Harold has it 7-1. Glen comes forward, and Johnson smacks him with a combo, and then slides away to his left. Dawson now bangs home a couple of body shots. Johnson keeps coming, as Dawson slides away to his right. Johnson trying to get close, but not having any luck. Dawson flicking out a couple jabs that land. Glen tries to fire a right hand, but doesn't get through. Now Glen lands a decent right hand. Dawson though fires back with a left and slips away. Glen presses forward and tries to dig downstairs, but it's Dawson that responds with what looked like the harder body shot. Now Johnson fires a right hand that may have landed. Dawson though slips away, and then stops and lands a combo. Glen with a right hand into the guard as Dawson backs away. Dawson looking very comfortable. Johnson with a 1-2 that's short. Action in the middle of the ring now. Glen was pressing early in the round, but now he's eased up. He fires a right hand that lands. Dawson responds with a left. Now DAwson with a combo. Johnson might have got a right hand in return. Dawson fires a combo, and Johnson responds as the bell goes.

10:51... Round 10. Alfredo Angulo is ringside, and he gives the thumbs up to the cameras. Glen comes out pressing, while Dawson circles to his left. Now Dawson goes right. Glen pushes forward, and lands a right hand. Glen digs to the body. Dawson responds with his bown body shot. A nice combo from Dawson. Harold has it 8-1. Dawson now flicks the jab as he backs away. Glen follows, but Dawson on the move, keeping a comfortable distance. Glen trying to jab his way in, but Dawson circles away. Glen trying to jab his way in again, and he gets Dawson along the ropes, but Dawson slides off. Now Glen fires a right hand that glanced off Dawson. Glen edginf forward, as Dawson backs away. Dawson stops and fires a shot to the body, and then a straight left. Now Dawson gets on the move again, flicking out his jab. Glen comes forward and misses a right hand. Glen just looks slower tonight. He's again short with a right, and Dawson lands a left in response. Glen closes the gab, and fires a 1-2. Now he misses with a shot. Dawson responds with a decent combo. There's the bell.

10:52... Dawson's corner tells him he's won every round. "Just don't get careless."

10:52... Glen's corner tells him that when he sees Dawson sliding along the ropes, he's got to take chances and go after him.

10:55... Harold has it 9-1. Johnson edges forward, as Dawson slips away, flicking the jab as he does so. Glen flicking out the jab as he comes forward, but he's not getting close enough. Glen fires a hook that misses. Glen is short with a 1-2. Glen lands a right hand. Dawson fires back with a combo. Dawson stuck around a traded there, but then slips away. Now Glen backs Dawson into the ropes and rips a couple shots to the body, but Dawson takes them and slips away. Johnson is short with a couple jabs, as Dawson backs away. Dawson lands a nice left hand. Dawson with a nice combo. Glen keeps coming though, but Dawson circles away. Dawson now rips a left hand on the inside that just missed. Glen edges forward, but a little tentaively now. Dawson hanging around on the inside for a moment, and now flicks the jab out and slips away. Another round in the books.

10:56... "Keep the jab going," Dawson's corner tells him. "You can't stop swinging." - the advice from Johnson's corner.

10:59... Round 12. 10-1 on Harold's card. Johnson with some urgency here, moving forward, while Dawson circles away to his left. Now Dawson moves to his right. Glen with a jab that lands. Glen digs hard to the body. Glen now tries to follow up with a right, but it whizzes over DAwson's head. Now Glen keeps pressing. Dawson backs away. Dawson now fires back with a real nice quick combo and gets out of there. Glen presses forward. He's jabbing his way in, and trying to land a right. Dawson fires off another quick combo, and that drove Johnson back into the ropes. Dawson gets on the move again. He's moving to his right. Action now in the middle of the ring. Glen tries to land a right, but is short. Glen flicking the jab out as he edges forward. Dawson sticks his jab out and moves. Glen gave a good charge to start the round, but now is looking a little tired, as he's not pressing. Dawson circling, but Glen can't get close. Now Glen tries to edge forward, but he's a little tenative and there's the bell to end it.

11:00... Johnson raised his hands at the end, but I'm sure he's aware that he's come up well short. He gave it his all, but he was in wtih a younger, fresher, quicker fighter tonight. Dawson was on the top of his game.

11:01... Harold gave the 12th to Johnson.

11:02... Here are the scores. 115-113, 115-113, and 117-111... all for Chad Dawson. I'm surprised at how close those scores were.

11:04... That wasn't thrilling, but Dawson did what he had to. He moved very well, picking his spots, and managed to have things mostly his way.

11:05.... Dawson is with Kellerman for the post fight interview. "I outboxed him every round. I used my legs. I used my speed. I outclassed him."

11:07... Kellerman mentions Jean Pascal and Tavoris Cloud as possible opponents, and asks Dawson who he'd like to fight. "Bernard Hopkins." Dawson acknowledges that if he can't fight Hopkins, he'd like to fight Pascal.

11:08... Looks like we're not going to hear from Glen Johnson. I think that kind of sucks. Yeah, he didn't come close to winning, but I think it would have been nice to give him a chance to say a few words.

11:09... Well that's it for our round by round coverage. I hope you enjoyed it.

Quick Predictions for Valuev-Haye and Dawson-Johnson

2009-11-07T12:33:00.008-05:00

By Lee Payton

****Check out our round by round coverage of Johnson vs Dawson and Angulo vs Yorgey.****

Unfortunately, I'm not going to be able to see Valuev-Haye or Dawson Johnson. It's always a sad day when life decides that boxing is going to have to wait. As gutted as I am to miss a freakish heavyweight battle and a light heavyweight championship fight, I'm pressing on with some quick thoughts and predictions.

Here goes...

Valuev vs. Haye

Could these two men be more different? In Valuev we've got a soft-spoken giant. Haye is a vain loud-mouth who at least looks the part of a heavyweight champion. If this was a photo-shoot or a soap opera audition, the Brit comes out on top every time.

Boxing is no beauty contest though. Sometimes this sport is as ugly as it gets.

It might seem odd at first to say anyone has an edge in physicality when one fighter is 7'2, 315 lbs, but the smaller man has much more athletic ability, and I believe that is the key to him winning this fight.

Speed kills and Valuev has shown vulnerability against quicker fighters who are capable of showing him some movement. Haye should be able to switch angles on the outside and jump in with power shots before "Niko" can do anything about it.

If he's smart, Haye will fire his cannon ball fists to the ribs on the inside. With some significant work to the body, he just might bring his humongous foe to his knees.

I'll take Haye to win a wide decision. Valuev won't be able to find him with anything more than the occasional jab.

Dawson-Johnson

Will Glen Johnson ever get old? If it's going to happen, most fans feel that tonight is as good a night as any, because Chad Dawson is a speedy southpaw who can move. Typically, that's enough to beat a 40 year old man.

However, I don't buy into the "Glen is one year older and Chad is one year better" theory. The first reason is that I think the younger man is what he is. I don't see him changing anything in there. He'll do what he does.

Second, I don't think what Chad does was good enough to win the first time around. I saw the old timer push the fight for 12 rounds, while hurting his man a handful of times along the way. Glen Johnson knows what he has to do to win. He also knows that he can't be hurt by this man.

I think Johnson will be the more confident fighter tonight, based on his belief that he won the first time, and his sparring with Lucian Bute. He'll be up for this fight in a big way, and I just get the sense that the timing is right for him to pull off the upset.

I'll take Glen Johnson to win a close decision on the cards.

Check out Michael Nelson's Preview: Chad Dawson vs Glen Johnson II Preview

email Lee Payton

Chad Dawson vs Glen Johnson II Preview

2009-11-07T10:43:00.002-05:00

Michael Nelson previews tonight's HBO main event between Chad Dawson and Glen Johnson.

Photo © Marty Rosengarten / Ringsidephotos.com

Despite giving Chad Dawson the sternest test of his career a year and a half ago, losing a decision he deserved to win in the eyes of many, Glen Johnson will enter the ring as more than a 3 to 1 underdog. It's a role the hard Jamaican born pugilist has become accustomed to.

The reasons Bad Chad is a heavy favorite are largely the same reasons he was heavily favored in their first fight. Glen is 13 years Dawson's senior at 40 years old, an age where most boxers are either retired or long past the point of diminishing returns, while Chad is in his physical prime at 27. Being able to compete with the world's best at 40+ is an extraordinary feat that most pundits and fans have a difficult time comprehending. It's the same reason Bernard Hopkins has entered his last four bouts as an underdog.

Beyond father time, Dawson owns most of the physical advantages. He uses dazzling hand speed to land eye-catching combinations, ripping both the body and head in explosive fashion. And while he doesn't have highlight reel knockout power, he has more than enough pop to get anyone's respect. His flashy style tends to score more points with the judges than the Road Warrior's workman-like efforts.

Finally, there's the prevalent assumption that Dawson learned from the rough outing Johnson gave him and became a better fighter while Glen has long hit a ceiling and fought as well as he possibly could last year.

The script has been set for HBO to annoint a new player in the pantheon of potential stars. But Glen Johnson has never been a man to simply play his role and disappear into the night.

The grizzled veteran's ability to exceed expectations and overcome the perceived advantages his opponents have makes him a special in his own right. He has the kind of toughness that comes around a few times a generation - in 16 years, he has scarcely if ever been cut, dropped, or hurt - to go along with an insatiable will to give the man in front of him more hurt than he can handle. He's impossible to discourage.

Dawson's a phenomenal talent, but he's far from perfect, and Johnson's strengths illuminate the chinks in the young man's armor. Glen is a steady grinder, consistent in his punch output and tedious pressure, while Chad throws punches in spurts. When Dawson's hands aren't moving and keeping Johnson's guard busy, Glen is chopping away at his body and sneaking damaging right hands.

The 27 year old's less-than-granite chin is another chink that Johnson took advantage of in their first encounter. Chad's heart and conditioning, combined with Johnson's tendency to let his wounded prey limp away in many of his biggest fights, allowed the South Carolina native to survive a few very shaky moments. But the visible effect of the elder's thudding punches bagged rounds that may have otherwise went to the flashier fighter. I suspect similar moments will arise in the rematch as Dawson begins to find it difficult to escape the old man's unrelenting pressure.

Moreover, while it may be true that Johnson fought at his peak that night, it's also true that Dawson may had done the same. It should be noted that the southpaw's performance in his rematch against Tarver six months ago sailed well below the expectations many had for him, particularly those who thought he would improve on his first Tarver beating and overwhelm the 40 year old to score an eventual stoppage.

Instead, they saw the same uneven, if not efficient, performance from the first meeting - spectacular in some spots, uninspiring in others. The two fights were near mirror images of each other.

If no improvements are made against Glen, Chad can very well see the first L etched onto his record. It would be unwise to expect the judges to hand in the same dubious scorecards that were filled out last April.

The odds make perfect sense on the surface. Look closer and you'll see a man who has carved out a modest, but inspiring legacy from defying such odds. Mr. Dawson shouldn't expect anything less than hell tonight.

e-mail Michael Nelson

Boxing's Best Seniors - 10 Big Wins From Fighters Over 40

2009-11-06T21:09:00.004-05:00

By Andrew Fruman

Given the phsyical demands and punishing nature of the sport, it's not surprising just how few boxers have been able to post significant wins in their forties. Glen Johnson will be looking to do just that tomorrow night in Hartford, and in honor of his bid, let's take a look at the fights that earned boxing's grizzled veterans exclusive membership in the over 40 club.

40 - Forty

Dick Tiger UD 10 over Andy Kendall – November 14, 1969 – age 40 (3 months)

Entering the bout as the world’s #1 light-heavyweight contender, the long time Madison Square Garden favorite pounded out a 10 round victory over #2 ranked Andy Kendall. Tiger staggered Kendall early in the fight, but the 31 year old from Oregon hung tough and while the judges’ scores were wide – 9-1 twice and 8-2 – the rounds were competitive. At one stage in the late going, Tiger brought the crowd to their feet with his impression of the Ali shuffle, explaining afterward, "I wanted to prove that I’m still young.”

Tiger fought once more, losing a 10 round decision to Emile Griffith the following June, before being diagnosed with terminal liver cancer. He was just 42 years old when he passed away in December of 1971.

Carl Thompson TKO 5 over David Haye – September 10, 2004 - age 40 (3 months, 15 days)

Thompson was expected to bring nothing more than some name value to the list of the big punching upstart’s knockout victims. Instead, the tough as nails 16 year pro soaked up all kinds of punishment, before stopping the brash youngster - who had run out of gas - via 5th round TKO.

Bob Fitzsimmons W 20 over George Gardner – November 24, 1903 – age 40 (5 months, 29 days)

The former heavyweight and middleweight champion added light-heavyweight honors with his victory over Gardner. While historically significant, the bout provided few sparks with the 26 year old Gardner unwilling to exchange, and Fitzsimmons – who claimed to have broken both his knuckles early in the bout - fighting cautiously the whole way. The lack of action prompted referee Eddie Graney, the sole arbiter in the contest to call it the worst bout he’d ever seen.

41- Forty One

Bernard Hopkins UD 12 over Antonio Tarver – June 10, 2006 - age 41 (4 months, 26 days)

While Tarver was only a few months short of his 38th birthday, the one sided nature of Hopkins victory still makes it one of the more impressive performances on the list. From start to finish, Hopkins was in complete control of the bout, with Tarver - a 3 to 1 favourite - barely landing a significant punch.

Archie Moore KO 11 over Yvon Durrelle – December 10, 1958 – age 41 (11 months, 27 days)

Arguably the most impressive come from behind win of all time – and that much more astounding when the man that came back from the brink was a few days shy of 42nd birthday. Showing remarkable resolve, a badly shaken Moore somehow made it out of the first round despite being put down 3 times. After tasting the canvas again in the 4th, the ageless wonder managed to find his footing in the bout, eventually wearing the rugged Canadian down with an 11th round stoppage.

The two light-heavyweights met again the following year, with Moore knocking Durelle out in the 3rd round.

42 - Forty Two

Virgil Hill UD 12 over Valery Brudov – January 27, 2006 – age 42 (9 days)

Hill retired after his most impressive post-40 performance, a narrow points loss in 2004 to Jean Marc Mormeck, the class of the cruiserweight division at that time. Two years later, he returned to the ring to face the undefeated Russian. It was an easy victory for the 42 year old, who used his superior footwork to stay at long range, while moving in and out of his ponderous opponent on the way to a lop-sided decision victory.

Larry Holmes UD 12 over Ray Mercer – February 7, 1992 – age 42 (3 months, 4 days)

Before the bout, Holmes had pointed out Mercer’s lack of head movement being easy pray for his ancient, but still precise skills, but with the younger man coming off a vicious stoppage victory over Tommy Morrison, there were few believers in his chances. It turned out old Larry was on the money, as the 4 to 1 underdog made Mercer looking foolish at times, as he pounded his way to a unanimious decision win.

Holmes parlayed the win into a title shot against Evander Holyfield 4 months later. He made it competitive, especially in the early going, but had no answers when Holyfield chose to fight at long range. After the bout when asked if he would have done anything differently, the ex-champ drew some laughs when he answered, "I would have fought this fight in 1980."

43- Forty Three

Bernard Hopkins UD 12 over Kelly Pavlik – October 18, 2008 – age 43 (9 months, 3 days)

Having struggled over the late rounds in his loss to Joe Calzaghe, this was the bout that was finally going to send The Executioner into retirement. Instead, Hopkins put forth one of his most masterful performances, using his superior ring smarts to completely neutralize his 26 year old opponent's offensive talents, while responding with a steady stream of hard counters.

45 - Forty Five

Archie Moore TKO10 over Alajandro Lavorante – March 30, 1962 – age 45 (3 months, 17 days)

This was Moore’s last great performance, and perhaps the most impressive result for the over 40 crowd, as the 45 year old former light-heavyweight champ handed the world’s 3rd ranking heavyweight a one sided battering. Giving away 20 years, 4 1/2 inches in height and 14 pounds, Moore consistently got inside his bigger opponent, steadily breaking Lavorante down over the course of 10 one sided rounds.

George Foreman KO10 over Michael Moorer – November 5, 1994 – age 45 (9 months, 26 days)

Having been away from the ring for a decade, Foreman’s remarkable return from a 10 year ring absense had appeared to have run its course with his 12 round defeat at the hands of Evander Holyfield 3 years earlier. Yet the big man stayed active and kept plugging away, before getting another crack at the crown - and this time, made the most of it. It wasn't easy, as Moorer appeared in complete control until a left jab, right hand combination flattened the 27 year old for the 10 count.

e-mail Andrew Fruman

British Scene: Rogan vs Sexton II & McCloskey vs Rasilla Previews

2009-11-05T11:45:00.001-05:00

Matt Chudley previews tomorrow night's Sky double-header, featuring two shows from Northern Ireland.

Sky Sports continue their impressive autumn line up with a split location live double header from two big cards in Northern Ireland this Friday.

In Belfast at the Odyssey Arena, local favourite Martin Rogan will be looking to regain the Commonwealth Heavyweight title he lost in controversial circumstances to Sam Sexton at the same venue back in May.

Meanwhile, across Lough Neagh at the Meadowbank Arena in Magherafelt, Dungiven's unbeaten southpaw Paul McCloskey headlines another big card with a challenge for the vacant European Light Welterweight title against short notice opponent Daniel Rasilla.

Sam Sexton vs Martin Rogan II

At 38 years old and having parted ways with highly regarded trainer John Breen to work out at a local amateur gym, the short but exciting career of Martin Rogan could be under serious threat. His moniker 'The Entertainer' is undoubtedly well earned with 2 domestic fight of the year candidates already in the books and another thriller is likely on the cards.

Rogan was a huge favourite heading into the previous encounter in May, and was criticised by many for taking on a soft opponent ahead of a possible European title fight. However, Sexton proved a far tougher opponent than originally given credit for, and the bout turned into a back and forth battle, that ultimately saw Rogan pulled by the ring doctor with his left eye almost completely shut, while Sexton was on the brink of being finished.

Though he may have almost completely lost the use of his left eye, Rogan had turned the fight on its head in the 8th after a tough 7th and after appearing to hold back against a defenseless Sexton for a stoppage from Dave Paris, the defeat left a bitter taste.

Sexton will no doubt look to once again capitalise on his superior boxing skills and try to pick the brawling Rogan apart from the outside. While Sexton did seem to have a good game plan and the necessary skills last time out, his lack of conditioning was almost his downfaill. This could once again be a factor, as having yet to go beyond 8, the scheduled 12 still poses questions for Sexton whereas Rogan showed during the Matt Skelton fight in February that he can stay strong into the championship rounds.

The added confidence and experience from claiming the belt last time out can only benefit the once beaten fighter from Norwich, while the 13 year age gap also looks favourable after a six month layoff for the pair.

Paul McCloskey vs Daniel Rasilla

Barry Hearn brings his unbeaten charge Paul McCloskey back to his home county of Londonderry in a fight for the European title with a strong supporting cast. The 19-0 southpaw had been set to challenge European champion Soulymane M'Baye for the strap but the Frenchman withdrew and vacated after sustaining a bicep injury in training.

While almost all of the biggest names in Irish boxing including John Duddy, Any Lee, Bernard Dunne and Rogan have suffered tough setbacks in the last 18 months, McCloskey has continued to quietly gain momentum in the 140lb division posting solid wins over the likes of Cesar Bazan and Colin Lynes.

An accomplished amatuer, having represented Ireland on numerous occasions and winning a silver medal in the EU championships, McCloskey got a late start to the pro game at 26 and reliant upon his sharp reflexes may need to be moved quickly if he’s to fulfill his potential.

Unsurprisingly there wasn’t a que of fighters atop the EBU rankings eager to take on the tricky stylist a few miles from his home on less than two weeks notice. The unenviable task fell to unheralded 15-2 Spaniard Daniel Rasilla who enters as an opportunist with nothing to lose.

A career lightweight, Rasilla has ventured to Ireland before in dropping a 12 round decision to Andy Murray for the European Union lightweight title in March on the undercard to Dunne-Cordoba. Up from his natural weight and with only 4 KOs to his name thus far, Rasilla will likely play spoiler and see if he can cash in on the erratic and often questionable mainland European judges provided by the EBU.

Also on the card in Magherafelt is British featherweight champion Martin Lindsay (14-0) who looks to stay busy over 8 against teek tough Ghanian Alfred Tetteh (10-3-2) ahead of a fight with mandatory challenger Jamie Arthur in the new year.

In action as well is Barry McGuigan prodigy Carl Frampton (2-0) who appears in his homeland for the first time as a pro. A successful amateur, having boxed internationally Frampton will be taking on 1-5-2 Hungarian Ignac Kassai as he looks to make an impression on the domestic super bantamweight scene.

e-mail Matt Chudley

The Rise & Fall of Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto

2009-11-03T03:00:00.001-05:00

Jeff Pryor previews the upcoming mega-fight between Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto.

Photo © Marty Rosengarten / Ringsidephotos.com

On a recent trip to Puerto Rico, at a time when Manny's personal minions were to be seen prowling about the streets of San Juan, bedecked in "Team Pacquiao" track suits, biding time until the press conference scheduled later that week and eating mofongo's at any number of quaint eateries before strolling back to their accommodations among the resort laden streets, I had the chance to talk to a few Puerto Rican's about the upcoming bout between their beloved boxer and the Filipino phenom.

One such islander, a taxi driver I got to chatting with, told me "Of course I want Cotto to win. I have great pride in my country. So of course I want Cotto to win... but... I like Pacquiao, he's my favorite." The man told me this with a sheepish, apologetic grin that seemed to plead please don't mention this to anyone.

It's eye opening that Pacquiao's ubiquitous appeal is so strong that a Puerto Rican who, so he told me, has never left the island, would be rooting for the Filipino outright if not for a patriotic sense of duty to his country.

On the flip side of that, I've seen Puerto Rican's born and raised in one of the five boroughs of New York, out of their minds and raucous at Madison Square Garden shrieking in reverie for a man from a land they've never been.

Both men are worthy of such adulation and both men are torch bearers for their profession. The torch, however, slips from everyone's hands at some point.

One senses that Miguel Cotto and Manny Pacquiao are both at precarious positions within their careers.

On the Puerto Rican pugilists side, a string of less than scintillating outings has triggered whispers that Cotto's brutalizing loss at the hands (augmented or otherwise) of Antonio Margarito in the summer of 2008 may have permanently changed his mentality and longevity within the sport.

Over that same time period, the Filipino fighter has continually tempted the scales, fighting well above what was thought to be his prime weight, taking on increasingly larger men and running the risk of hubris that could dethrone him from the pinnacle of the sport at which he now resides.

When they stare at one another from across the ring, awaiting the bell to sound and set off the fury that will ensue, one of their career paths will be on the teetering precipice of veering in an entirely different and less acclaimed path.

Over the course of that thirty six minutes of action (or less), both men's stature... profitability... and legacy will be altered. How, and by how much, is why we watch.

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Miguel Cotto has mutated. From a stalking brawler, to a boxer puncher, and now, some would claim, a pot-shotting runner.

The truth is, Miguel is a little of all those things, and his opponent indictates which one we'll see. In the case of his matchup with Pacquiao, Cotto should be the naturally bigger, more rugged man. Obviously it would be to his advantage to make it a rough and tumble affair where he forces the action.

What Cotto has had trouble with of late are bigger men, who he cannot hurt. Margarito was the epitome of that mold, up until Shane Mosley punished and stopped the Tijuana Tornado early this year. Clottey, had the same toughness, though lacked the relentlessness that Margarito had been so successful with. Both men caused Cotto to shift from an excellent boxer-puncher to more of a hit and run artist.

It would seem that as physically arduous as the Margarito fight was for Cotto, it may have equally damaged his psyche to some extent.

The good news for Cotto is that in Manny Pacquiao, he is not facing a bigger, unhurt-able punishment sponge, but a smaller, more vulnerable pugilist. That alone is a key factor for, not only Miguel Cotto's chances at sustaining a successful fight plan, but also for plugging any lingering mental fissures that have appeared in his confidence.

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Manny Pacquiao has mutated. From a raw, all destroying dynamo, to a half controlled burgeoning boxer, and now to a well rounded precision power puncher.

Pacquiao's rise up the weight charts has coincided with a dampening of his reliance on natural ability and more emphasis on learned skills and technique.

His dominant wins against De La Hoya and Hatton seem to suggest that he is capable of fighting at these weights with great success, but perhaps what has been hidden by the sheen of their impressive names is the actual quality of those two fighters at the time Pacquiao got them in the ring.

Without meaning to take anything away from these terrific wins, one could still make a legitimate case that Pacquiao's impressiveness was at least partially bolstered by the inefficiencies of his two foes.

Stated plainly, Pacquiao still has something to prove at weights in excess of 135 pounds. In facing Cotto he will be squaring off against his first elite fighter, still in his prime, since abandoning the lower weights.

-------------

Let's quickly tick off the advantages and disadvantages for each.

Size favors Cotto, though by a slimmer margin than might be expected, at least on paper. They stand within an inch of one another and reach is the same.

The catchweight may affect Cotto who used to suffer to make 140lbs. At 145lbs. he will be forced to drain off an extra bit for this fight. It could be the difference in a gruelling bout, but in my estimation it will be a minor factor. Cotto will likely outweigh Pacquiao after rehydrating leading up to the fight. Regardless of height, reach and weighing in the same, Cotto will be bigger and fight bigger when the opening round begins.

The counterpoint of that is that Pacquiao will be faster. How much faster may determine the outcome of the fight. Ripping a page from Cotto's own recent playbook, Manny may look to potshot and counter for large portions of the round. It's not his traditional style, but he showed a fleet footed finesse against Hatton that would suggest he could employ a highly effective gorilla warfare mode of attack; strike and manoeuvre out before any retaliation can find you.

His dynamic speed and dexterity may overwhelm Miguel, who at times, though he was able to match Mosley's speed, can be plodding and measured with a penchant for admiring his work.

If Cotto finds himself chasing Pacquiao across the ring, trying to corral the Filipino for prolonged stretches, it could be a long night for the Puerto Rican. Cotto will have to employ his underrated jab to keep Pacquiao occupied while he works to get close to Manny. But if he can't lay gloves on him, it may lead to frustration and even fouling which Cotto has not been above before.

For Pacquiao's part, he'd be well served to stay off the ropes and keep Cotto from getting set to rip shots to his body.

It's those shots that bring us to the next factor, power. Cotto will undoubtedly be the heaviest handed opponent that Pacquiao has faced. While Margarito and Clottey were able to withstand extreme amounts of battery, they are two exceptions in the division... perhaps in the entire sport.

It might be easy to forget that before facing those titanium headed titans, Cotto was considered pound for pound one of the more devastating punchers in the sport.

His punching prowess made Gianluca Branco quit after a crushing punch... to the shoulder. It left Quintana sucking wind on the canvas debilitated and nursing a severely battered liver. And Paulie Malignaggi's face grossly distorted, a bone in his face busted and deformed.

It can even be argued that the punishment he foisted on Margarito over the course of their brutal showdown, likewise, took something out of the controversial Tijuana fighter and in short softened him up for his ultimate collapse against Mosely.

Pacquiao's own power seems to have carried up with him admirably, his explosive knockout of Ricky Hatton being the most illustrative example. However one wonders if Cotto had fought the De La Hoya that Pacquiao did, would the Golden Boy have been left to call it a career on his stool, or would he have been splayed on the canvas, perhaps pounding it futilely from a body shot like the one Hopkins delivered?

The salient point however is whether Pacquiao will have enough firepower to hurt Cotto, and I believe he does. Cotto holds the edge, but Pacquiao holds his own.

The overriding equation is as follows; is Cotto's speed close enough to Pacquaio's to let him land and is Pacquiao's power close enough to Cotto's to make his punches punish? The reality ratio of those two factors are the crux of this fight’s outcome.

While you can question Cotto's durability at this point, you cannot question his heart. He is a warrior through and through. And while you may question the true value of Pacquiao's most recent conquerings, you cannot question his bravery. In facing down bigger, highly respected opponents he has proven to truly be with 'No Fear", a statement his trunks are often emblazoned with.

The combination of these fighters, facing off in a ballet of brutality should be enough to set off any fight fans excellence detector, for when these men, two of the sports prized practitioners, meet up on the 14th it should be an electrifying showdown that sends one of them rocketing into the stratosphere and the other drifting back to earth.

e-mail Jeff Pryor

One More Round With Mark Lyons: Haye/Valuev, Dawson/Johnson, Agbeko/Perez, Super Six, etc...

2009-11-02T22:59:00.001-05:00

Mark Lyons is back with his take on some recent and upcoming fights.

After a couple of slow weeks we are heading into a great stretch of boxing. I’ll keep my comments brief on the Super 6, and will focus my thoughts on the two big fights coming up in what really is a fantastic month for combat sports.

My Take On Some Recent Fights...

-- Perez and Agebko put on a heck of a battle Saturday night. It wouldn’t make my list as a FOTY year candidate because it lacked some drama, but it was right on the cusp. Perez proved to be just a bit stronger and while I thought the fight was much closer than the final cards, the right man had his hand raised. Is it me, or is their an influx of bruising fighters entering the top level from South America?

-- Leave it to Boxing to institute instant replay to battle some controversy and completely ignore the ability to overturn what shouldn't be a knockdown. A three point swing in what most saw as a close fight isn’t worthy? Yes, I know, baby steps, but if something like that can't eventually be handled by replay, the system will never be of much use.

-- Last week's brawl between Ryan Rhodes and Jaimie Moore would make my short list of the year's best fights. I have to admit to becoming a Moore fan after his epic war with Macklin and I was a bit sad to see him lose before getting a shot at the world level. That being said, Rhodes story is a pretty remarkable one. This late career renaissance has been pretty special and I hope he gets the opportunity to challenge for world honors.

Super 6 thoughts……

-- I can’t say I was surprised by either result. Abraham was my favorite going into the tournament and nothing changed. I thought it was a dominant and brilliant performance. His style is frustrating at times, but incredibly effective. Winky Wright/George Foreman. while many dislike his cautious approach, he always tries to close the show in style when he doesn’t need to and I think that should be respected. Lost in his numbing power is one of the toughest defenses in the sport and a very underrated ring IQ. King Arthur knows what he is doing every second of every round.

-- I don’t have much good things to say about Froch/Dirrell. Andre had the skill to win, but not the will. His mid round performance was akin to watching a horny dog hump a leg, chair, table, etc… This was John Ruiz quality holding, but at least Ruiz had the excuse that he needed the tactic to compete. Dirrell on the other hand has a world of talent, which he showed in the 11th round when he sat down on his punches. But even then, he held Froch after clearly hurting him. I scored the fight for Dirrell by a point but I would be lying if I said I wasn’t happy to see that kind of fighting go without reward. Maybe he will learn from it, but I’m expecting him to give us a Usain Bolt impression against Art.

Looking Ahead To This Weekend...

We have a rematch of fight more remembered for the scoring than the sizzling action, and David Haye finally gets the opportunity to walk the walk.

-- The first time Chad Dawson faced off against Glen Johnson I expected the veteran to give Chad his toughest fight but fall short to the young man's immense talent by a 8-4 type decision in a solid fight. The Road Warrior far exceeded that and it was one of the years better fights with far wider scores than should have been. Don’t ever accuse me of learning from previous errors, as I believe Dawson’s speed and resilience controls the action and gets through some rough spots for an 8-4 type decision on Saturday night. It should put to rest the outcry of robbery from the first fight. BTW, I scored that one a draw.

-- I’m not sure if it’s the sleep inducing boredom of watching Wladimir be the most reluctant knockout artist in the history of the ring or the lack of viable challengers to face his more willing brother, but I’m all in on David Haye. Yes I see the flaws, but I don’t care. He is entertaining in the ring and outside of it. If a 47yr old warlord legend was too fast of hand and foot for the lumbering giant sleeping pill that is Valuev, Haye should be able to land as he pleases. David will exhibit more smarts in there than people give him credit for, avoiding Valuev’s hugging, slamming home some hard body shots and becoming the first man to floor the Yeti with a blinding right hand. The winner by seventh round knockout and a much needed breath of fresh air... David Haye!

A Fight I’ve Been Thinking About...

-- Here is one between two rough and tumble HOF fighters that tend to get overlooked. How about Joel Casamayor vs Jeff Fenech at 130? Bruising inside action would be the main course for this evening. Jeff’s relentless pressure meets the Cuban's toughness and boxing skills. I think it would certainly have ugly moments, but there would be a ton of action and it's likely to end up a tight decision. Give me Fenech by split decision in a fight that neither man is hurt, with about ten swing rounds. Joel is once again outraged by the judges and if they do it ten more times, it’s ten more split nods.

e-mail Mark Lyons

British Scene Weekend Recap: Paul Smith Edges Tony Quigley

2009-11-02T03:41:00.000-05:00

Dave Oakes recaps this past Friday's British super-middleweight title fight.

Paul Smith claimed the British super-middleweight title on Friday night after an unconvincing split decision victory over Tony Quigley.

It was a scrappy fight in which neither man seemed to settle. Barely anything happened in the first round with both men looking frightened to commit in case they were caught with a counter punch.

Quigley improved in the second round, landing three solid jabs and a nice straight right. Whilst the round was close, Quigley gave the impression he was bossing it due to that fact he was walking forwards whereas Smith seemed too anxious to try and throw anything of any note. Quigley kept switching to the southpaw stance but was having very little success and looked rather uncomfortable in doing so.

The third was yet another close round but it Quigley who was the aggressor and took the round on work-rate alone. A overhand right late in the round from Quigley looked to have hurt Smith but the television replay showed that it was more of a slip or tangle of feet that caused Smith to lose his balance.

Smith finally started throwing punches in the fourth; he landed a nice left hook that seemed to give him the confidence to get involved more. It was still a close round but it was the first round in which Smith showed glimpses of what he’s capable of.

The fight from there on in was a close and scrappy affair with both fighters putting in disjointed performances. Smith was landing the occasional left hook whilst Quigley always tried to respond with a shot of his own. Smith was cut in the fifth round after a clash of heads, it wasn’t a bad cut and with master cutsman Mick Williamson in his corner, the cut was never going to be a problem for Smith.

Round eight was probably the best of a disappointing fight. Smith landed a hurtful left hook to Quigley’s ribs and seemed to be getting the better of the champion until Quigley responded with a big uppercut that had an effect on Smith’s legs. The left hook to the body was the first body shot that Smith had landed in the fight, considering he’s well known for his body punching, it was strange that he wasn’t prepared to throw any early in the fight.

Smith finished the fight the stronger; Quigley was blowing in the final four rounds but gamely fought back whenever Smith was starting to get the better of him. Smith was also feeling the pace in the final two rounds but did enough to edge the rounds.

Despite the MC announcing that it was a majority decision, the scores actually read 116-113, 116-112 in favour of Smith and 116-114 for Quigley making Smith the winner via a split decision. I had the fight a draw (115-115) but a lot of the rounds were very hard to score and the fight could’ve gone either way.

The undercard…

Tony ‘Bomber’ Bellew destroyed Jindrich Velecky inside a round. The heavy-handed Bellew landed a left hook a minute in that shook Velecky to his boots, Bellew is a vicious finisher and went to town with a flurry of shots to head and body. Velecky survived the initial onslaught but was floored twenty seconds later by a huge right uppercut.

The ending came in bizarre fashion, Velecky beat the count but when the referee let the action commence, Velecky was staring at his corner rather than at Bellew, who sprinted across the ring and landed two straight rights that convinced the referee to stop the fight.

Bellew correctly described himself as a smashing machine after the fight. He’s quickly gaining a reputation as one of the biggest punchers in British boxing and has a nasty streak in him that will stand him in good stead when he gets to title level. Keep an eye out for him in future.

Michael Jennings went through the motions in an easy points win over Laszlo Komjathi. Jennings was originally due to fight Kell Brook for the British title but Brook pulled out earlier in the week with flu. Jennings dominated the fight from start to finish and never needed to get out of second gear.

Olympic gold medallist James DeGale smashed the brave but limited Ally Morrison to a third round stoppage. DeGale looked sharp and focused as he put together beautiful combinations that hurt Morrison every time they landed. DeGale is improving quickly and is winning over the fans who disgracefully booed him on his pro debut.

Another former amateur star on the bill looked impressive; Frankie Gavin stopped the tough Steve Saville in the second round after a one-sided beat down. Gavin hurt Saville to the body in the first round and then dropped Saville with a body shot in the second. Saville beat the count but the referee correctly waved the fight over.

Jamie Cox remained unbeaten after his opponent, Manoo Salari, retired after the third round. Cox was always in control but is still smothering his boxing and getting involved too much rather than using his skills. He’s possibly the most impatient boxer I’ve ever known, both in the ring and out off it. He needs to settle down and learn how to pace himself if he’s to stand any chance against the likes of Kell Brook, who he unwisely seems very eager to meet.

Stephen Smith, Paul’s brother, took his record to 8-0 with an easy points victory over Gary Reid. Smith has got to be considered one of the hottest prospects in Britain and is one to watch out for in the future.

Liam Smith kept his unbeaten record intact by beating Darren Gethin on points after a lacklustre performance.

Joe Selkirk stopped journeyman Alex Spitko in the fourth round to take his record to 3-0.

Tobias Webb also took his record to 3-0 after a hard fought points win over Pawel Trebinski.

e-mail Dave Oakes

Manny Pacquiao's Ten Greatest Fights

2009-11-01T02:59:00.003-05:00

By Lee Payton

I have a feeling I'll need to revise this list in a couple weeks and find a spot for what takes place at the MGM Grand on November 14, but for now these are my top 10 greatest Manny Pacquiao fights.

Photos © Ray Kasprowicz

10. Won TKO8 Chatchai Sasakul - December 4, 1998- The fight that started it all. Manny traveled to Thailand and was being dominated by a respected champion until his freakish power came through. It was his very first world title.

9. Won TKO6 Lehlohonolo Ledwaba - June 23, 2001- Pacquiao made his debut on American TV as a late replacement. On just two weeks notice he crushed the South African veteran, and took his world title belt at 122 lbs in the process. His amazing speed and frightening power made the big boys at HBO take immediate notice.

8. Won TKO9 David Diaz - June 28, 2008- This fight is significant because Pacquiao earned a championship in his fifth weight class. There was never any doubt as to who the better fighter was, but the way he tortured a strong, rugged lightweight raised some eyebrows.

7. Won TKO8 Oscar De La Hoya - December 6, 2008 This was not a prime De La Hoya, but the thorough beating the Pac-Man delivered was still a big deal because it introduced the entire sports world to Manny Pacquiao. Going into the fight most fans and media people thought that the little man had finally bitten off more than he could chew. Instead, he put an end to The Golden Boy's career as a boxer.

6. Draw Juan Manuel Marquez - May 8, 2004- During the early part of their first epic encounter Manny's devastating power was on full display. If you watched him rip through Marquez' chin, dropping him 3 times in the very first round, you could hardly believe what was happening. Later on, it became obvious that the kid still needed some work. Pacquiao went from invincible to human right before our eyes. Only his indomitable will allowed him to hold onto the featherweight crown.

5. Won SD Juan Manuel Marquez - March 15, 2008- By the time these two warriors met again Manny had added a few new wrinkles to his already blistering arsenal. A thicker and tidier Pacquiao was taken to the brink once again by the great counter punching skills of his pesky adversary, despite nearly ending matters at the end of the third round. He was cut badly and had been hurt several times throughout the contest, but after 12 more rounds of tactical Hell, the fiery Filipino earned a very narrow victory.

4. Lost UD Erik Morales - March 19, 2005- I had a bit of a hard time finding a place for this fight, but decided on the #4 spot because, for my money at least, it was the most entertaining from start to finish. For the first time ever, he saw Pacquiao in with someone who could stand up to his explosive fists. He came out on the short end in this fight, but many times it's the losses that reveal the most about what a fighter has on the inside. When many pugs would have folded, Manny just dug deeper. Imagine how loud it was in the Philippines during that unforgettable final round...

3. Won KO2 Ricky Hatton - May 2, 2009- While Hatton is not on the same level of Morales or Marquez, he was the legit champion at 140 lbs. A former flyweight champ decimated the jr. welterweight king in 2 rounds. Let that sink in. One blast from his famous left fist finished what was already a hideous beating. The brutal conclusion made one thing clear- when it comes to Pacquiao, the supposed "laws" of boxing do not apply.

2. Won TKO10 Erik Morales - January 21, 2006- In many ways this was Manny greatest performance. It's not just the fact that he knocked out a legendary hard ass, it's how he went about it. After enduring a familiar cuffing in the early going, Pacquiao proved he was the best in the world by hanging in, and making the progress he made in the gym count for something under the lights. The "Baddest Man" torch was officially passed that evening.

1. Won TKO11 Marco Antonio Barrera - November 15, 2003- The Mexican icon was on top of his game. He had successfully switched from vicious attacker to a clever, heavy-handed boxer who was considered 1 of the 5 best fighters in the sport. In late 2003 Barrera put his World Featherweight Title on the line against a skinny Filipino not many people had heard much about. Hardcore boxing fans knew the kid was fast as lightning and fun to watch, but no one expected him to treat the future Hall Of Famer like a sparring partner. He assaulted Marco mercilessly, forcing the corner call a halt to the savage beating. Manny Pacquiao had exploded onto the scene suddenly and he's been blowing our minds ever since.

e-mail Lee Payton

Round by Round Blog: Joseph Agbeko vs Yonnhy Perez

2009-10-31T20:55:00.038-04:00

Welcome to The Boxing Bulletin's live blog coverage of Showtime's bantamweight clash between Joseph Agbeko and Yonnhy Perez.

Round by round updates should start at approximately 10 PM EST, but check back in with us earlier in case Showtime's opening bout ends quikly.

Joseph Agbeko 27-1 (118) vs Yonnhy Perez 19-0 (118)

Refresh this page often as updates will be frequent

8:55 PM EST... Round by round coverage will start with the main-event. I'll post the occasional update of the DeMarco/Alfaro bout.

9:19... We're through 2 rounds of DeMarco vs Alfaro and DeMarco is in control. He's keeping Alfaro at range, and started to really unload with some hard power shots in the last minute of the 2nd.

9:31... Through 5, it's mostly all DeMarco. Occasionally Alfaro gets through with something, but it's a pretty one sided fight so far.

9:40... We're now in round 8. DeMarco firmly in control.

9:46... All 3 judges on press row have it 80-72 for DeMarco. Round 9 is winding down.

9:51... DeMarco puts Alfaro down 3 times in the 10th, and this one's over.

9:52... A big right hook started things off for DeMarco. It sent Alfaro almost through the ropes, and he never recovered.

9:54... Official time is 2:07 of the 10th round.

9:57... The official judges had it 90-81, 89-82 and 89-82.

10:00... Jim Gray is with a cheerful Mike Tyson and Don King. He just asked Mike if there's any chance of a comeback. Mike's answer..."I'm too fat." Don's got a big grin on his face.

10:05... Al Bernstein and Steve Albert are chatting about the Super Six. Hopefully we'll be seeing Agbeko and Perez shortly.

10:11... Yonnhy Perez is making his way in.

10:13... Here comes Agbeko. He's playing up the Halloween theme, as he follows a stunning blonde who I assume is supposed to be Ann Darrow to the ring, while wearing a King Kong mask.

10:16... Jimmy Lennon Jr. with the intros. The ref is Robert Byrd.

10:19... Final instructions are being given. We're moments away from starting.

10:22... Here we go. Both guys immediately begin trading in the middle of the ring. Agbeko's told to watch his head. Both guys unloading, although it's Agbeko's who's appearing to be winning these early exchanges. He's letting both his hands go, and going hard to the body. Al comments that it's not the best idea for Perez to lay on the inside with Agbeko. 1:30 to go. Action in the middle of the ring. Perez is standing in and firing back. He's landing some decent counters. Heavy leather being traded here. Agbeko is sticking the jab, and then firing hard shots, but Perez just landed a nice hard counter left hook. And he just landed another one. Some great action towards the end of what was a very good round.

10:23... That was a hell of a round. Impossible to give a blow by blow, as there was just so many clean shots landed. Just hard intense action.

10:27... Agbeko is pushing forward, but he's not backing Perez off. "The non-stop punching continues." - Steve Albert. Just some terrific exchanges here. Agbeko is pushing the action, but Perez is landing hard counters. None of them are backing Agbeko off though. It's just relentless stuff. Agbeko just ate another hard counter, but he just keeps pouring it on. 1:30 to go. Right now, I'd say Perez is landing the cleaner more precise stuff. Agbeko just landed a hard right hand on the button, but Perez took it without blinking. Agbeko with another hard right hand. Perez again took it very well. Perez is standing in and ripping counters in return. Perez with a hard right hand that Agbeko takes well. Both fighters just unloading. Al comments that he's never seen Perez' left hook look so good. Another good exchange before the bell. Through round 2, this is fantastic stuff.

10:27... Both these guys are showing very good chins, as they've traded bombs so far without showing much effect.

10:31... Round 3... Agbeko again comes forward trying to press the action. He just landed a nice hard combo, but Perez stands right in there on the inside and fires back. Now Agbeko with a hard left hook. Agbeko with a solid right. Agbeko having the better of things here early in round 3, but he eats a counter left hook. "Can these guys do this for 12 rounds?" - Albert. I can't imagine that they can. Somebody has to crack under this kind of heat. Agbeko just ate a hard right hand, and immediately fired back. Agbeko with a right hand. Agbeko just landed another really nice right hand that seemed to snap Perez' head back, but he took is well, and he's back throwing immediately. 50 seconds left in the round. Big left hand from Perez! And Agbeko immediately fires back. This is terrific stuff. Good body work as well. It's hard bruising action. "What I love about this fight is that technique has not gone out the window." - Al Bernstein. There's the bell.

10:34... Round 4 is underway. As usual it's Agbeko pressing forward and taking the lead, but with Perez standing right in and firing back. Press row has it 29-28 accross the board for Perez. Al agrees. No let up here in round 4. Both men standing in the middle of the ring and unloading on the inside. It's very much like Castillo/Corrales 1. Agbeko is using his jab a little more now. I think he'd be wise to slow things down a little. He's also jumping in with lead rights. The last minute has been fought at a quick pace, but not really the same quantity of power shots exchanged. Agbeko is now backing Perez up a little, but he's getting countered in the process. More heavy body shots exchanged. Both fighters going downstairs well. There's the bell.

10:38... Round 5. Action in the middle of the ring here to start the round. Now it's Perez pushing Agbeko back, and it's Agbeko responding with a hard right hand, as he gets off the ropes. Action back in the middle fo the ring. Agbeko banging the body in close, and he's warned to keep his shots up. He's trying to use some more head movement, rather than recklessly trading here. Now he comes forward, unloading as he backs Perez on the ropes. He landed a hard left hand during that sequence, which Perez as usual took very well. Perez came firing back as he quickly got off the ropes. Agbeko again drilling the body hard, and he's again warned by Robert Byrd to keep them up. Al says those were marginal and he hopes those warnings done stop Agbeko from going downstairs. He just landed a nice right hand. More good exchanges as the round ends. It might be my imagination but I think Perez is slowing down just a touch.

10:43... Al thinks Agbeko's body work was the difference in the 5th. Agbeko is sticking the jab here early in the 6th. He's landing it through Perez' guard. Perez is looking to counter with his left hook. Now Perez comes forward and bangs the body hard. Perez with a nice right hand. Action in the middle of the ring. Perez with a nice 1-2 combo. Perez with another combo. Perez with a hard right hand. A good sequence here from Yonnhy Perez. Agbeko keeps coming though. A hard exchange with both men getting through with power shots. Both using their jab here, and Perez landed a nice counter right. 45 seconds left in the round. More bruising stuff from both fighters. Agbeko with a nice upper-cut on the inside. Now he bangs the body with a hook. Agbeko pushes Perez back to the ropes, but Perez slips away back to the middle of the ring. There's the bell.

10:43... That was a solid round for Perez, although Agbeko came on strong at the end of the round.

10:46... Perez suffered a cut in the 6th due to an accidental clash of heads. Not sure how bad it is. Agbeko's started quickly here in the 7th. He's going hard here in the first minute, backing Perez up with some hard shots. Press row has it 58-56, 58-56 and 57-57 for Perez. Al has it 57-57. So far Agbeko is having a very good round. Perez is now standing his ground though firing back. "Amazing pace to this right." - Albert. Al thinks Perez's shots are lacking a bit of steam compared to the last round. Action in the middle of the ring as usual. No clinches in this one. Just a lot of hard exchanges. Al again mentions that Perez' shots aren't quite as sharp, that he's pushing a little with his punches. There's the bell for round 7.

10:47... We just saw a clip of Agbeko landing his head on Perez' jaw in the 7th. Maybe there's no holding in this one, but it's certainly not all clean.

10:51... Action in the middle of the ring here in round 8. The action is a little sloppier here in this round. Agbeko suddenly seemed bothered by something, and started backing up and Perez chased him. Now Agbeko fires back, but he's got his back along the ropes. Now he tries to hold on. Now Agbeko fires back with a right hand. "Just went you thought Perez was on the downslide, he comes back." - Al commenting on a good round so far from Perez. I'm having trouble keeping up with the blow by blow here. Some heavy exchanges in the middle of the ring, with Perez landing a hard right hand that was the best shot during that sequence. Now Agbeko comes back, pushing Perez into the ropes and unloading. "Unbelievable action." - Steve Albert. It's really too good for me to properly capture.

10:55... Round 9. Action in the middle of the ring. Both letting their hands go. Now Perez pushes Agbeko back, and AGbeko responds by backing Perez off. Action back in the middle of the ring. Now Perez with a nice combo that backs Agbeko off momentarily. Perez with a good stretch here, as he's again landing the cleaner shots. Press row has it 77-75 for Perez twice, and 77-75 for Agbeko. Al has it 76-76. Action in the middle of the ring. Agbeko with a good sequence now, as he lands a couple good right hands. I think both men are a little fatigued. Now quite the same sharpness from either as we saw earlier. It's been a grueling battle of attrition. More good action, as Perez landing some decent counters only for Agbeko to push him back, and then for Perez to fire back. Agbeko with a couple decent rights near the end of the round.

10:59... Round 10. The fighters immediately start exchanging in the middle of the ring. Both are warned for using their head, although I think that's clearly something Agbeko is initiating. Al comments that Perez' left hook is not the weapon it what earlier in the fight. It's a little wider. Agbeko is the one pushing the action in this round and having the better of it. He's catching Perez with hard shots, and then Perez fires back with a hard right hand counter that landed flush. Agbeko keeps pressing through. Perez fires back with another nice counter. Agbkeo pushing forward. Perez maybe taking a breather, or a little tired. Agbeko using his jab well in this round.Something happened to Agkbeo's eye, and he turned around and then got clocked by Perez. He's up quickly. I think there might have been a clash of heads, but Byrd missed it. That will count as a knockdown. Agbeko fires back as the round ends. Let's see that again. That could be a huge moment when it comes to the scoring as that was a very good Agbeko round up to that point.

10:59... There was a clash of heads, and Agbeko immediately turned, and Byrd didn't see it as he was on the other side of the action.

11:03... Hard intense action here to start round 11. Both men exchanging in the middle of the ring. All 3 judges have Perez up. 2:00 left in the 11th. Good exchanges here in the middle of the ring. Agbeko I think having the edge in these exchanges, but Perez is landing his share of counters. Just intense action on the inside. Both men just ate hard left hands. Agbeko pushing Perez back a little, but Perez landing counters, and now works his way off the ropes. Terrific round from two tired, but very determined fighters.

11:07... Both men immediately start exchanging in the middle of the ring. Agbeko with a big left hook, and Perez took it well, and he comes back with a hard right hand on the button. Great exchange there. Al says he'll be shocked if the judges have it more than a point or two either way. Al has Perez up by 1. 2:00 to go here in round 12. Ferocious action in the center of the ring. This is amazing stuff. Agbeko having a bit the better of it, with his right hand. Perez is firing back and landing though. "What a sensational fight." - Albert. 50 seconds left. Now they have slowed just a touch, as Perez backs away for a second. Agbeko goes after him, but he's tired. 20 seconds left. Both fighters clearly tired here. They have given a hell of a lot. There's the bell. What a fight.

11:09... We await the cards.

11:10... Here's Jimmy Lennon with the result. 116-111, 117-110, 117-110 all for Yohhny Perez.

11:11... I'm very surprised at those scores. I thought it was razor close. 9-3?

11:12... Jim Gray is with the two fighters.

11:15... A rematch? "Whenever he wants it, I'll be right here." - Perez

11:18... Not surprisingly, Agbeko wants a rematch. I'd love to see it. That was a hell of a fight. For sustained action, I don't think there was a better one this year.

11:19... Press row had it 116-111 and 115-112 for Perez, and 114-113 for Agbeko.

11:20... All 3 press row judges and all 3 official judges obviously scored the knockdown round 10-8. That's just lazy scoring. A knockdown does not automatically give a fighter a 10-8 round, especially if he clearly lost the majority of the round. Anyway, I don't want to complain too much, as that was a fantastic fight, and I think Perez was a fair winner... but I really can't see it being nearly that wide. I hope you enjoyed our coverage of the fight, and check back next week for our live round by round coverage of Glen Johnson vs Chad Dawson.

Joseph Agbeko vs Yonnhy Perez Preview

2009-10-31T16:47:00.001-04:00

Carlos Acevedo previews tonight's Showtime main-event between Joseph Agbeko and Yonnhy Perez.

Bruising Joseph “King Kong” Agbeko looks to continue his recent tear when he defends his KCRW bantamweight title against undefeated Yonnhy Perez tonight at the Treasure Island Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Both fighters are coming off of grinding scraps and it is likely that this bout will be no different. In fact, a brawl seems all but guaranteed. Agbeko, 27-1 (22), upset Armenian Wildman Vic Darchinyan via decision in July and Perez knocked out Silence Mabuza last May in the final round of a fight he was losing.

Despite smacking Darchinyan around in an ugly affair, Agbeko does not appear ready to assume a spot in the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Darchinyan, briefly on the revolving door carousel of several dopey “P-4-P” lists, was not as good as his cyber clippings suggested and there is the possibility of overrating Agbeko based on his performance against a fighter who throws punches like a man suffering from ergotism.

His attributes—-stamina, hand speed, athleticism, and durability--are nearly equally counterbalanced by his flaws: a tendency to square up, poor balance, and negligible defense when on the attack. Still, Agbeko must be considered a proven commodity at this point, while Perez, 19-0 (14), has talent but perhaps does not yet have the resume to compete on the highest levels.

Compared to Vic Darchinyan however, Perez with his fluid combinations and amateur pedigree, resembles Benny Leonard. Agbeko, the Bronx via Accra, Ghana, will not be able to stymie Perez from the perimeter the way he did Darchinyan.

On the outside Agbeko likes to nod, dip, and feint before rushing in with hard shots. He is fairly quick and often uses his speed to throw unorthodox punches, like perplexing double lead rights. For some reason this arcane weapon is a favorite of West African boxers based out of the South Bronx. Its delivery, which resembles that of a quarterback double-pumping, often leaves its hurler off-balance and susceptible to counters. Joshua Clottey also uses it regularly, as does Anges Adjaho, originally from Benin, but now living in upstate New York.

In addition, Agbeko tends to square-up when on the attack with wide punches and Perez should be able to thread straight rights down the middle. Darchinyan could never really catch Agbeko coming in because Darchinyan, like a tipsy javelin thrower, often needs a running start before letting his arcing blows go.

Oddsmakers have installed Agbeko as the favorite. He is stronger, hits fairly hard, and is more experienced. To top it all off, his awkward style means trouble for anyone who steps in the ring against him. So what will it take for Perez to swing an upset?

First, he will have to add some angles to his game; stationary targets allow Agbeko to get away with hurling junkballs all night; Perez has shown a talent for slipping punches here and there, but he needs to add footwork to keep Agbeko off-balance.

Second, Perez has to try to break Agbeko down to the body. There were moments against William Gonzalez when Agbeko, 29, looked visibly distressed after taking some thumpers to the ribs. It is up to Perez, who holds slight height and reach advantages, to consistently attack the body while throwing combinations.

Eventually, Agbeko will be forced to give ground and Perez will go to work with straight rights and his relentless left. If Perez, 30, can manage to force Agbeko to fight on his back foot he will have an edge.

Finally, Perez has to avoid headbutts and make Agbeko pay when he rushes in without caution.

For his part, Agbeko will have to replicate his fight with Gonzalez and kick up a fuss for all three minutes of each round. His tendency to reach when punching will be a liability against a precise sharpshooter like Perez, but his experience and chin will help him through some hard times.

If Agbeko can make the fight a roughhouse affair he should be able to outwork Perez, who does not have the slickness to outmaneuver Agbeko on the inside. Perez is the more skilled fighter and throws snapping punches accurately and in combination. His left hand is particularly effective.

To offset these strengths, Agbeko might have to turn into a grinder in the clinches and throw some junk at his opponent. Agbeko does have some clever moves--including a heat seeking missile of a forehead and a nifty shimmy--and will probably empty his entire bag of tricks or treats in order to unsettle Perez.

It is not clear whether Perez, given his relative inexperience, can hold up under a sustained assault. Judging from his dramatic KO of Mabuza, Perez, Santa Fe Springs, California via Cartagena, Colombia, is not the kind to wilt under pressure. He was behind on the scorecards when he lowered the boom on Mabuza and never looked discouraged despite the fact that he was down on points against the toughest opponent of his career. That poise, more than anything, is reason to like his chances against a fighter as careless as Agbeko often is.

If Perez stays busy, attacks the body, and keeps Agbeko on the perimeter with his snapping jab, he might be able to pull off the upset. In order to outpoint Agbeko--since a knockout seems unlikely--Perez will have to maintain his composure and fight with discipline. Of course, Agbeko will have his say in the matter, and will be there clawing until the final bell. Perez via close decision in a fight that can go either way.

For more from Carlos Acevedo, check out his blog, The Cruelest Sport on the MVN network.

British Scene Weekend Preview: Tony Quigley vs Paul Smith

2009-10-29T21:40:00.000-04:00

Dave Oakes previews Friday's British super-middleweight title fight between Tony Quigley and Paul Smith.

Tony Quigley makes the first defence of his British super-middleweight title on Friday night in an eagerly anticipated all-Scouse clash against Paul Smith at the Echo Arena, Liverpool.

The fight has generated a lot of interest on Merseyside and has nearly sold out the 10,600 capacity arena. The fact that there seems to be a bit of needle between the pair has only added to the high profile nature of the build up around the Liverpool area. Personally, I’m unsure as to how much genuine bad blood there is between the two, I get the feeling a lot of it has been done to help the promotion.

I do feel there’s a fierce rivalry between the combatants but not to the level it’s been built up to. The supposed bad blood started when Smith did a radio interview in the build up to Quigley’s fight against another Scouser, Tony Dodson. Smith claimed that that he could knockout both Quigley and Dodson on the same night and went on to describe Quigley as a “never will be”. Quigley responded by beating Dodson to win the title and will now get the chance to prove once and for all who the best super-middleweight in Liverpool is.

Quigley, 13-1 (6KO’s) was exceptional the night he beat Dodson. He started the fight in fine style by dropping his rival in round two; he then had to survive a ferocious comeback from Dodson as the fight wore on before a gargantuan effort from him late on helped him to a 12th round stoppage win.

Quigley showed a bit of everything against Dodson, he boxed well in parts, brawled at other times, took some heavy shots, dug deep when he needed to and showed great finishing instincts. It’s even more impressive when you take into consideration that he took the fight at two weeks notice despite never going beyond six rounds before.

Before the Quigley-Dodson fight, Smith was the much better known boxer. He was a top class amateur and received a lot of attention when he participated in the American show The Contender. Smith left the show after just one fight having sustained two bad cuts in his points victory over David Banks.

Smith, 27-1 (15KO’s), is the more experienced fighter, as well as his victory over Banks, he holds wins over the heavy handed Cello Renda and onetime world title challenger Jonathon Reid.

Smith also had an extensive career as an amateur, boxing all around the world. The high point being when he won the silver medal at the 2002 Commonwealth Games, narrowly losing in the final to Jean Pascal, the current WBC light-heavyweight champion.

Despite his amateur experience and high profile, Smith has yet to reach the level that was expected of him when he turned pro. His career has never really got going and I get the feeling that this title shot has come at the perfect time for him.

Quigley has a slight advantage in terms of skill and speed but Smith is definitely the puncher in the fight. Smith can be a skilful boxer himself when he applies himself but at times in the past he’s let his heart rule his head and has ended up brawling more than boxing.

I feel the early rounds will be vital; Smith needs to stamp his authority on the fight as soon as possible and try to hurt Quigley. I think Smith will go to the body early, he’s a noted body puncher and Quigley has shown he’s susceptible to body shots before, particularly in the only defeat on his record against Nathan Cleverly.

I believe Quigley will look to box early on before standing his ground more as the fight goes on. If he can outbox Smith early, and avoid taking the energy sapping body shots, I feel he’ll come through a tricky moment or two to claim a narrow points victory.

e-mail Dave Oakes

Revisiting Chad Dawson vs Glen Johnson

2009-10-28T22:43:00.002-04:00

By Andrew Fruman

With Chad Dawson and Glen Johnson set to renew hostilities on November 7, I thought it would be a good time to look back and score their original meeting. It's been awhile since I saw the fight, and as it was one of my favorites from last year, I decided to just watch and enjoy it first while taking a few notes - then carefully score it on my second viewing.

A couple comments before I get to my scores...

-- My prediction going into the fight was a one sided Dawson victory. Johnson had been doing battle with fellow old timers Antonio Tarver, Clinton Woods and Montell Griffin and my feeling was that his age would really show when matched up with a young fighter of Dawson's class. I thought Dawson would be too quick and too sharp, and while he was quick and sharp, I was very wrong about Johnson's ability to still bring it.

-- After watching some of the messy foul filled scraps in recent weeks, it was a pleasure to see such a clean hard fought fight. Holding? None. Dirty fouls? None. Just two high caliber fighters going at each other. I can't wait for November 7. If Johnson hasn't suddenly got old, we're in for another treat.

Now, let's get to my scorecard...

Round 1

10-9 Chad Dawson

Fast paced round, that Dawson took hold of over the last couple minutes. He landed his jab, and his straight left, and threw some nice combos. While Johnson was outworked, he managed to successfully close the gap, landing his right cross, as well as some nice shots to the body – but still found it difficult to unload thanks to Dawson’s impressive combos getting their first.

Could it have gone the other way? No. Easy round to score.

Score 10-9 after 1 for Dawson.

Round 2

10-9 Chad Dawson

I thought Dawson just edged the round, but not without a fair bit of trouble. He moved nicely, and picked his spots to plant his feet and rip combos, but Johnson still managed to wade through it all, closing the gap, and landing what I thought were the heavier punches - just not enough of them to win the round.

Could it have gone the other way? You can make an argument for Johnson as his shots appeared to be heavier, but I don’t think he landed enough of them to really make a solid case.

Score 20-18 after 2 for Dawson.

Round 3

10-9 Glen Johnson

Dawson started nicely, using his jab and creating some distance, but Johnson eventually got inside and made his pressure pay off with a very strong final minute. He landed some damaging right hands – including a couple in the final 10 seconds that had Dawson in a little trouble.

Could it have gone the other way? No. Despite Dawson’s early edge, the damage Johnson did over the final minute was significant, and clearly outweighs Dawson’s work over the first couple minutes.

Score 29-28 after 3 for Dawson.

Round 4

10-9 Glen Johnson

I had Dawson slightly up after the first minute, but Johnson then came on very strong in the middle, landing the most damaging shots of the round with his right hand. Dawson took them well though, and got back to boxing, outworking, and out-landed Johnson in the final minute, but even during that period, Johnson still got some hard shots through. If forced to pick a winner when it’s this tight – it comes down to what you prefer, the fighter landing more frequently or the fighter landing with more force – and I prefer force.

Could it have gone the other way? Yes. You can make a solid argument for Dawson. And I'd have no complaints with scoring it 10-10.

I’ve got it even at 38-38 after 4.

Round 5

10-9 Glen Johnson

After some some fast paced nip and tuck action, Johnson took over down the stretch landing a number of hard power shots, including a really nice left hook late. Dawson had his moments, but wasn’t setting his feet and ripping combos the way he was earlier in the fight. He’s pecking more with his jab from range, and not throwing with the same authority, while Johnson is commanding his space, steadily moving forward and landing the harder shots.

Could it have been scored the other way? No. It was razor close through the first couple minutes, but Johnson closed very strongly and convincingly took the round.

For the first time in the fight, Johnson’s up on my card – 48-47.

Round 6

10-9 Chad Dawson

Very little meaningful shots landed this round, as Dawson made a concerted effort to stem Johnson’s momentum by avoiding exchanges in favor of boxing and moving. Johnson landed a few nice body shots, but for the most part he found himself unable to get close enough to let rip, while Dawson landed enough jabs and left hands to take the round.

Could it have been scored the other way? Dawson didn’t do a whole lot, but Johnson just didn’t land enough to make a solid case. If half point rounds were an option, this would be a prime candidate.

After 6, I’ve got this one a draw, at 57-57.

Round 7

10-9 Chad Dawson

Dawson built on what was working last round to keep Johnson at a comfortable distance, but added a bit more offense. He had a very nice stretch in the middle of the round, where he caught Johnson coming in with some sharp shots. Johnson had a few good moments in the last 30 seconds, but so did Dawson, who looked like he’d got some of the confidence from earlier in the fight back.

Could it have been scored the other way? No.

Dawson’s back in front, 67-66.

Round 8

10-9 Chad Dawson

This was a closely fought round, that I needed to watch an extra time before making my mind up. Both fighters worked hard and landed their share, but I felt that Dawson was doing the better work. He was just landing a little more, and a little cleaner.

Could it have been scored the other way? Yes, this was definitely another candidate for a 10-10 round. Considering I gave the previous really tight one to Johnson, giving this to Dawson evens it up. Not that I’m trying to even it up – but just pointing out that at this stage, I don’t think either man has been given any breaks on my card.

Dawson’s now got a bit of a cushion, up by 2 points, 77-75.

Round 9

10-9 Glen Johnson

Johnson came out strong, and had some good moments early – landing several hard shots over the first minute. I thought he had a slight edge over the next 60 seconds as well, before Dawson started putting things together towards the end of the round.

Could it have gone the other way? Not in my opinion, but I should mention that at the midway point of the round, Al Bernstein and Steve Albert seemed to think the round was very close - and you can make an argument that Dawson had the edge the rest of the way.

After 9, I’ve got it 86-85 for Dawson.

Round 10

10-9 Glen Johnson

Dawson was doing very nicely, until he got hurt with a looping right hand with about a minute left in the round. Johnson pressed his advantage, landing a number of solid shots over the final 60 seconds in what was the best period of the fight for either man. It must be said that while Johnson won the final minute big, Dawson fought back gallantly during Glen’s assault.

Could it have gone either way? No. Johnson’s onslaught over the final minute easily won him the round.

We’re back even on my card, 95-95.

Round 11

10-9 Glen Johnson

This was a hell of a round, with Albert proclaiming half way through that it was "Vasquez-Marquez...only bigger." Maybe we didn't see the same kind of sustained violence as with those little warriors, but this was a terrific round in a very good fight. Johnson just landed the harder, more effective shots and enough of them that even though Dawson had a gutsy rally at one stage, it wasn’t nearly enough to turn things in his favor.

Could it have gone either way? No.

Johnson’s back out in front, 105-104.

Round 12

10-9 Glen Johnson

Good steady work through the full 3 minutes from Johnson. Dawson had a couple decent moments in the middle of the round, but for the most part looked like he was content to play it safe until the final bell.

Could it have gone either way? No. This was one of the more one sided rounds of the fight.

After 12, I’ve got Johnson winning 115-113.

Somehow, all 3 judges had it 116-112 for Dawson. I’ll be blunt. Those are garbage scorecards. Okay, so Dawson up by 4 points is out of the question, but can I see an argument for him winning the fight?

Going over my card, there are 2 rounds which I think are really questionable – rounds 4 & 8. I gave Johnson round 4 and Dawson round 8. Giving both to Dawson, makes it 114-114.

Rounds 2 and 9 were also reasonably close. I gave round 2 to Dawson, and round 9 to Johnson. Could Round 9 have gone to Dawson? Maybe, but I think if building a case for switching one of those rounds, I'd be able to do a better job for Johnson in round 2.

So yes... it's possible to have Dawson up 7-5. But, I think when a fighter is commanding the space, backing his opponent up, landing the heavier punches, hurting the other man... to give the other guy the benefit of the doubt in all close instances is questionable. Even giving Dawson every close one, that's still only 115-113. How those judges came up with 116-112 is crazy. I'll say it again (with caps for good measure) those were GARBAGE cards.

115-113 for Glen Johnson. Maybe a draw. That's how I saw it.

Now bring on the rematch!

e-mail Andrew Fruman

British Scene Weekend Recap: Rhodes Stops Moore, Napa and Bayaar Win, Rushton Injured

2009-10-26T20:15:00.002-04:00

Dave Oakes recaps this past Friday night's Sky show.

Photo © Chris Royle

Ryan Rhodes became European champion on Friday night after stopping Jamie Moore in the seventh round of a classic domestic fight. Rhodes was a massive underdog going into the fight but out-toughed the usually teak tough Moore to claim the win of his career.

Moore started the fight well, repeatedly catching Rhodes with hooks to head and body in the opening round.

Moore continued the onslaught in the second round, he was beating Rhodes to the punch and was landing some hurtful body punches, a couple of which seemed to have an effect on Rhodes. The Sheffield man responded well to the heavy shots he was taking, firing back with his punches that made Moore think before he charged in.

Rhodes was expected to make full use of the ring whilst countering the aggressive Moore; instead he seemed intent on standing his ground and taking on Moore at his own game. This didn’t seem like the brightest of ideas, especially after the third round in which Moore teed off on him from start to finish with powerful combinations to head and body.

At the start of the fourth, it looked like it was a case of when could Moore get the stoppage, not if he could get the stoppage. There mustn’t have been many people in attendance who could have foreseen what was to happen.

Yet again Moore was the aggressor, he was seemingly far too big and strong for Rhodes to cope with. Rhodes was battling bravely and was having his own successes at times but Moore was landing some telling blows, in particular a left hook that rattled Rhodes’ jaw and visibly hurt the challenger. It was Rhodes though who landed the best punch of the round; he landed a vicious hook under the ribs bang on the bell that had Moore wincing and gasping for air as he made his way back to the corner.

The fifth round saw Rhodes getting dropped to the canvas, but it was a clear low blow that put him there. Despite the roars from the back of the arena, the referee correctly ruled it as a low blow and gave Rhodes the adequate time to recover. The round itself was very close, Moore was still pressing forward but Rhodes was increasingly upping his work rate and was now matching Moore punch for punch.

The sixth round was the first clear round that Rhodes won, you could make a case for him in another couple of rounds but this was the round in which he really made his mark. He was catching Moore repeatedly with spiteful body shots and was starting to boss the usually rock solid Salford champion around. To his credit Moore was still trying to force the pace but he was clearly tiring from his efforts in the earlier rounds, the number of heavy whacks to the body he was receiving didn’t help him to much either.

Moore tried to re-establish his superiority in the seventh but soon found himself on the canvas after a well timed counter right hook by Rhodes had him in all kinds of trouble. He managed to beat the count but he looked unsteady on his legs. He then, in typical Jamie Moore fashion, decided to go toe-to-toe with Rhodes rather than clinch and buy himself some time to recover. Amazingly he seemed to have turned the tide midway through the round and was once again hurting Rhodes to head and body.

Just when it looked as if Moore had weathered the storm and was beginning to break Rhodes heart, he inexplicably dropped his hands and was caught with a monstrous overhand right that sent him staggering backwards towards the ropes. Rhodes jumped on Moore straight away and unleashed a non-stop two fisted salvo that left the referee with no alternative but to stop the fight.

It was a remarkable end to a remarkable fight. A lot of credit has to be given to Rhodes, who at 32, showed he still has the appetite to dig deep and come through adversity to win. He’s had a career of many highs and lows but this has got to rank as the most impressive win of it.

It’s hard to believe that Moore will be able to rebuild from the defeat, he’ll still be able to compete at European level at either light-middleweight or middleweight but hopes of a world title shot now seem to have gone forever. It’s a shame that his world title dream has fallen apart after so many years of hard work and after spending the past three or four years begging to be given the opportunity he deserved.

Bizarrely, despite the fight being billed as a world title eliminator, it now seems that Julio Cesar Chavez Jnr has jumped ahead of Rhodes in the rankings and will fight Sergio Martinez sometime next year. Rhodes will have to be patient, let’s hope he doesn’t have to be as patient as Moore was made to be.

On the undercard...

Ian Napa recaptured the British bantamweight title after a close points decision over Gary Davies. A pumped up and emotional Davies started the fight at a furious pace, possibly letting the occasion get the better of him. His work rate was enough to secure him the first two rounds and make the next four close but it was the silky skills of Napa that dominated the fight from there on in.

Davies tried his hardest but was being beaten to the punch on the inside and at range. He had to survive some problematic moments late on in the fight as Napa unleashed two powerful uppercuts and numerous left hooks that had him rocking and rolling but he courageously hung on to hear the final bell.

Two of the judges had the fight in Napa’s favour (115-114 and 116-112) whilst the third judge scored it as a draw (114-114). I scored the fight 116-112; I felt that Napa’s work was the cleaner in the rounds that were close.

Shinny Bayaar produced the performance of his career to capture the British flyweight title after beating Stoke’s Chris Edwards on a split decision. Edwards, who was making the second defence of his title, never seemed to get going. He was unusually negative throughout the fight and only had himself to blame when the scores were announced.

The likable Bayaar was the aggressor for most of the fight, and despite not being able to hurt Edwards or get complete control over him, I felt he was the clear winner. Two of the judges scored it in Bayaar’s favour (117-112 and 115-113) whilst the third had Edwards winning 115-113.

David Price, the 2008 Olympic bronze medallist, won his third fight in the pro ranks after an uninspiring points decision over Yavor Marinchev. Price controlled the fight from start to finish but looked far from the potential world beater he’s being touted as.

Doncaster’s Jason Rushton was rushed to hospital after collapsing in the dressing room shortly after his fight against Brian Rose. Rushton was stopped in the tenth round after a hard fought fight but seemed to be fine initially.

He was induced into a controlled coma after scans revealed a small tear to brain tissue. His condition was described as being stable on Sunday and initial signs are good.

Everyone here at The Boxing Bulletin would like to wish Jason a speedy and full recovery.

e-mail Dave Oakes

Photo Gallery: Ryan Rhodes vs Jamie Moore

2009-10-26T05:47:00.004-04:00

This past Friday at the Bolton Arena, Ryan Rhodes continued his career resurgence with a dramatic 7th round stoppage of world ranked Jamie Moore. With the victory, Rhodes claimed the European 154 pound title and put himself in the mandatory challenger's position for the WBC junior-middleweight crown held by Sergio Martinez.

Photographer Chris Royle was ringside to capture all the hard hitting action.

Ryan Rhodes vs Jamie Moore

Photos © Chris Royle - Click on the images to enlarge.

Salford's Jamie Moore (left) entered as the reigning European champion, having captured the belt with a 3 round destruction over Michelle Picirillo earlier this year.The all-action fan favourite brought an 11 bout winning streak into the contest, and an overall record of 32-3.

Ryan Rhodes (right), the challenger from Sheffield, also entered on a good run having won his last 7 bouts, reviving a career that until recently appeared destined to fall well short of the promise once shown.

As expected, Moore set a fast pace from the opening bell, attempting to overwhelm the challenger with heavy pressure.

He succeeded in backing Rhodes up, but the 32 year old used movement and solid counter punching to hang tough in the early going.

The intense action was starting to even up by the 3rd and 4th rounds with the bout developing into a give and take battle featuring a number of good exchanges.

The 4th through 6th rounds were fought at a torrid pace, with both men standing in the middle of the ring and trading. Moore still had a slight edge, but Rhodes had several good moments.

Rhodes stunned the crowd by landing a huge right hand early in the 7th. The punch caught Moore flush as he leaned in, sending the favourite crumpling to the canvas along the ropes.

Moore quickly found his legs after the knockdown and proceeded to take the fight hard to Rhodes, only to run out of steam in the final minute of the round. A crunching right hand from the Sheffield fighter sent Moore staggering backwards into the ropes. A follow-up assault left referee Howard Foster with no choice but to jump in with 25 seconds remaining in the round.

The new European champion, and now mandatory challenger for the WBC 154 title celebrates his stunning victory with his team.

Adamek Beats Up Golota In Poland

2009-10-25T02:23:00.001-04:00

By Lee Payton

Photo © Marty Rosengarten / Ringsidephotos.com

As expected, Tomasz Adamek took care of business with a 5th round stoppage of faded former heavyweight contender, Andrew Golota. This one was really all about money, as it's been many years since Golota has shown he can fight at a world class level. The show took place in Lodz, Poland to maximize profits, and in the end everything worked out nicely for Adamek in his first foray into the heavyweight division.

Golota came out unusually fast during the first 3 rounds, probably knowing that he has too many miles - not to mention pounds, as he came in at a career high 256 - to fight the scheduled 12 rounds. To his credit, he did try his best to come forward and land the big one, but it was not to be. He found himself on the canvas in the first, evidence that his legs just aren't what they were.

Adamek thrived under the bigger man's pressure and used it to showcase some of his seldom seen boxing skills. This was not the stone-faced terminator who is only looking to line up a short right hand. On this night, "Goral" used educated feet to sidestep his opponent's rushes, and swift combination punching to do the damage.

By round 4 Golota was still trying, but had slowed down considerably. He was breathing heavily and his enthusiasm seemed to be sagging. A familiar sight. The end was near.

Adamek landed his money punch at the start of round 5, and it sent the old guy to the canvas. He got up, but was swamped by a world class fighter in his prime. A few more solid shots later and Golota was on skates, prompting referee Bill Clancy to call a halt to the exhibition.

With the win, Adamek picks up a ranking in the IBF's top 15 at heavyweight. No one is sure whether he will continue to fight the big guys or if he'll go back down to cruiser to defend his world title.

Usually smaller fighters move up because the heavyweights make more money, and no doubt that would be the appeal for Adamek, as potential fights with either of the Klitschko brothers would generate mega-bucks.

Is it worth it though? Does Adamek have a realistic chance of even being competitive with the giant Ukrainians, or even one of the smaller top heavies like Alexander Povetkin, David Haye or Eddie Chambers?

Given his frame once allowed him to compete at 175, and taking into account that Steve Cunningham had him wobbling badly in the 4th round of their cruiserweight fight, you have to seriously question whether Adamek has the capacity to absorb the kind of fire-power he'll be facing against the big men.

To put it bluntly, going in that direction seems like a cash-out, and with the potential to reign for a few more years at cruiserweight, is that a wise idea at this stage? Especially when you consider that Adamek should be able to make some decent money at 200 pounds. He can obviously draw well in his native Poland, but he's also proven himself a big draw at the Prudential Center in New Jersey where his last 3 bouts have done very well.

Besides, there are fights below heavyweight that fight fans want to see.

A rematch of that incredible fight with Steve Cunningham would be a great place to start. It's an irresistible clash of styles that has already proven to be TV-friendly. Cunningham has been lobbying for a return bout, but in the meantime is settling for a chance to reclaim his belt - vacated by Adamek - against Matt Godfrey.

Ola Afolabi is another top guy who could make for an exciting night. Earlier in the year he knocked out Enzo Maccarinelli and will now be taking on undefeated Marco Huck for a title belt.

I'm not sure what's going on with the enigmatic Guillermo Jones these days, but that's another potentially violent scrap.

Whatever does happen next - it must be worthwhile. After Jonathan Banks, Bobby Gunn and now Andrew Golota, fans are anxiously waiting to see Adamek take on someone they think has a serious chance.

e-mail Lee Payton

British Scene: Jamie Moore vs Ryan Rhodes Preview

2009-10-22T17:53:00.000-04:00

Dave Oakes previews Friday night's SKY show featuring a 154 pound match-up between European title holder Jamie Moore and challenger Ryan Rhodes. Also on the card are two British title match-ups, with Gary Davis defending his bantamweight crown against Ian Napa and Chris Edwards putting his featherweight belt on the line against challenger Shinny Bayaar.

Being called the most entertaining fighter in Britain should be taken as a big compliment but for Salford’s Jamie Moore, it isn’t enough, he feels the time has come to stake a claim for being the best fighter in Britain. He starts this Friday at the Bolton Arena with an intriguing European title defence against former world title challenger Ryan Rhodes, with the winner becoming the mandatory challenger to WBC champion Sergio Martinez.

Moore has been desperate to step up to world title level for the past three or four years and is now about to dip his toe into it against the seasoned and dangerous Rhodes. This will be Rhodes (42-4 KO 28) biggest fight since the one year hiatus he took following his defeat to Gary Lockett in the summer of 2006. Rhodes’ career has been one of many ups and downs; he made a blistering start to his career, winning the British light middleweight title in just eleven fights, becoming one of the youngest ever title holders in its history (he’d only just turned 20) before failing in an ambitious attempt at a world title up at middleweight a year later.

The decision to move Rhodes up to middleweight so early in his career is one that still leaves me baffled. He was finding it hard to make the light-middleweight limit but had been doing so without it taking anything away from him, he certainly wasn’t looking weight drained. I believe his camp thought that Otis Grant was very beatable but that decision backfired when Rhodes was out-pointed by the tough Jamaican. I know that Rhodes himself has said that he moved up because he was struggling to make light-middleweight but you have to question the validity of that statement when you consider he can still make the weight now.

The defeat shouldn’t have had a detrimental effect on Rhodes’ career, I’m a great believer in the theory that a loss can sometimes make a fighter. Unfortunately for Rhodes, he suffered another defeat just eighteen months after his first loss, this time for the interim WBO middleweight title. It was in far more brutal fashion though; Jason Matthews knocked him out inside two rounds and almost destroyed Rhodes’ career.

A less than focused Rhodes then treaded water for years, facing journeymen opponents and failing to live up to the reputation he’d made when claiming the British title at such a young age. Even another shock knockout defeat wasn’t enough to fire him up; he looked totally disinterested with the sport when Lee Blundell stopped him in the third round of a fight in which Rhodes should’ve won with ease.

The turning point in Rhodes’ career came after his last defeat, a points loss against Gary Lockett just over three years ago. Rhodes seemed to be regaining his hunger in the four fights he had before facing Lockett but I sensed he rediscovered his confidence after running Lockett close on the scorecards. It was almost as if he realised that he could still be a champion if he fully dedicated himself again.

He regained his British title in 2008, nearly 12 years after first winning it, destroying Gary Woolcombe in brutal fashion. Woolcombe was the defending champion and the betting favourite going into the fight but Rhodes out-boxed him before producing a spectacular finish, knocking him clean out in the ninth round. The victory has definitely been the best performance of the second part of his career; he followed it up with good victories against Jamie Coyle and Vincent Vuma, as well as a routine knockout win over Janos Petrovics in his last fight to confirm that he’s back to his best.

Moore is also no stranger to the ups and downs of professional boxing, he’s suffered three defeats in his career (32-3 KO23) but has comeback from them well each time. It has to be said that his disqualification loss to Michael Jones was very debatable (Moore has two wins over Jones as well as the defeat), and the knockout defeat to Ossie Duran was as much to do with a hip injury rather than any punch Duran landed.

Everyone in Britain knows Moore as being an all action fighter but I feel his technical ability is often overlooked because of his aggressive style. The way he was catching and rolling away from punches in his war with Matthew Macklin was very impressive. He boxed clever as well as trading heavy punches that night and the victory looks even more impressive now that Macklin has become a European champion himself.

Moore has been looking sensational of late, respected European level fighters Roman Dzuman and Michele Piccirillo were both blown away early, neither of them being able to match Moore’s strength and aggression. Moore looks massive for the weight and seems to be hitting harder than ever, he’s certainly showed that he’s now well above European level and should be confident of winning a world title if he comes through on Friday night.

There’s no doubt that Rhodes will be the hardest test of Moore’s career, his switch-hitting style could cause Moore some problems and he has a wealth of experience to draw from. Despite the knockout defeats on their records, both fighters have solid chins, both also have respectable punch power and both firmly believe they’ve got the beating of each other. It has all the makings of a very good fight.

I can see Rhodes being very cagey early on, looking to counterpunch Moore rather than trading with him. Moore will be made to work hard to land clean punches but I think his size, strength and body punching will eventually take its toll on Rhodes. I wouldn’t be surprised if it went the distance but I’ve got a feeling that Moore will want to make a statement and stop him. I think Moore will have to be on top form to do so but I believe he’ll get a late stoppage win.

The Undercard...

The undercard sees two British title fights. Gary Davies defends his bantamweight title against Ian Napa, whilst Chris Edwards defends his flyweight title against Shinny Bayaar.

The fight between Davies and Napa should be an entertaining fight. The improving Davies is coming in off the back of two impressive victories, his second round destruction of Martin Power and his seventh round stoppage of Matthew Edmonds.

Davies is an aggressive boxer who hits very hard; he also has considerable height, reach and strength advantages over Napa. This won’t be anything unusual for the diminutive Napa but he must improve on his last outing if he wants to regain the British title he vacated a couple of years ago.

Napa looked like a fighter on the slide last time out when he lost his European title to Malik Bouziane. He didn’t have an answer to anything Bouziane did and allowed himself to be outworked on his way to a wide points defeat.

It could be that Napa just had a bad day at the office and will be back to form in this fight, but one thing is for certain, if he loses this fight, he won’t have many options left afterwards and would have to consider hanging his gloves up.

I think that could spur Napa on to victory, he’ll be determined to erase the memory of the Bouziane performance from his mind. Napa has always relied on his speed and skills; if he is on the slide then it could prove to be a very hard fight for him because Davies won’t take a backwards step all night. If Napa’s still got something left in the tank, which I believe he has, I think he should be able to outbox Davies to win on points.

Chris Edwards v Shinny Bayaar is an interesting match up. Bayaar has been disappointing so far in his career, losing four times in eighteen fights, usually when he’s tried to step up in class. He’s a hard fighter who looks to have a rock solid chin but unfortunately he doesn’t have much else in his arsenal.

Edwards is a much better fighter than his record (13-13-3) suggests but is no world beater by any stretch of the imagination. He likes to swarm all over his opponents, trying to grind them down with body shots. He doesn’t punch particularly hard but can sicken opponents with his relentless attacks.

I think this fight will undoubtedly go the distance, the early rounds will be close but Edwards’ better fitness and hunger will help win the late rounds to take a wide points decision.

e-mail Dave Oakes

Photo Gallery: Carl Froch vs Andre Dirrell

2009-10-22T07:13:00.007-04:00

Last Saturday night in Nottingham, battle tested British super-middleweight Carl Froch took on American speedster Andre Dirrell in the first round of Showtime's Super Six World Boxing Classic.

Photographer Justin McKie was ringside at the Trent FM Arena to capture all the action from the much anticipated super-middleweight clash.

Carl Froch vs Andre Dirrell

Photos © Justin McKie - Click on the images to enlarge.

Carl Froch arrives at the Trent FM Arena in Nottingham - the scene of his memorable 12 round victory over Canadian Jean Pascal last December.

From wrapping the hands, to getting warmed up, trainer Rob McCracken prepares his fighter for a hard night's work.

Fighting on foreign soil for the first time as a professional, Andre Dirrell looks relaxed and confident as he makes his way to the ring.

The 26 year old from Flint, Michigan, brought a perfect 18-0 record into the contest.

With the clock already past 2 AM local time and the crowd eager for action, Froch makes his entrance.

The hometown fighter is coming off his two biggest victories - a unanimous decision over Jean Pascal and a last minute stoppage of Jermain Taylor - and sports a perfect record of 25-0.

The early rounds were fought mostly at long range, with Froch edging forward and the switching hitting Dirrell using his jab from both the conventional and southpaw stance to stay at long range.

Dirrell also mixed in plenty of movement, avoiding much of Froch's early attacks with his fast feet and quick reflexes.

The action intensified in the 3rd and 4th round, with Froch upping the pressure, but still having a hard time catching up with the speedy American.

The action started to get a little messy as the bout moved into the mid rounds. The fighters often came together awkwardly, with Dirrell slipping to the canvas more than once.

Both men were guilty of numerous infractions in what was becoming an increasingly untidy fight.

Froch was cautioned on more than one occasion for hitting behind the head, while referee Hector Afu was forced to warn Dirrell several times for holding. Eventually Afu took a point from the American for excessive holding.

Boasting a significant edge in hand speed, Dirrell often beat Froch to the punch when he lets his hands go.

Above - Referee Afu looks on as Froch lands a hard left hook. Froch had many of his best moments during the second half of the fight, with Dirrell occasionally looking rattled by the pressure.

After struggling through rounds 6-9, Dirrell came to life at the end of round 10 and closed strong over the final two frames. Below he lands a hard left hand between Froch's guard.

After 12 hard fought rounds, the decision was as contentious as the action, with the judges disagreeing on the winner.

Judge Alejandro Rochin Mapula scored it 114-113 for Dirrell, but was overruled by judge's Massimo Barrovecchio and Daniel Van de Wiele, who both had Froch in front by 115-112 scores.

Next up for Froch will be a trip to Denmark to face perhaps the most complete fighter in the tournament, Mikkel Kessler. Dirrell has his work cut out as well, as he'll be going up against Germany's heavy handed Arthur Abraham.

The post-fight press conference. Dirrell is seated with promoter Gary Shaw, while Froch is accompanied by Rob McCracken.

One Last Shot

Bonus Pre-Fight Video

British Scene Weekend Recap: Booth Stops Hunter

2009-10-19T03:24:00.000-04:00

Matt Chudley recaps this past Friday's British super-bantamweight title match-up between Jason Booth and Michael Hunter.

Jason Booth successfully defended his British super-bantamweight title for the 2nd time with an impressive one sided 5th round stoppage of Michael Hunter at the Seaburn Centre in Sunderland on Friday. It was a career best win for the slick Nottingham fighter, who also holds the Commonwealth bantamweight title.

Booth bobbed and weaved, as he looked capitalize on openings afford to him by Hunter who came out looking to use his size and strength and set a fast pace. The 5’4 man from Nottingham was able to time the 5’7 southpaw on several occasions with short left hooks in the first and really started to settle into his rhythm in the second.

With Booth quickly moving in and out of range and accurately countering, the challenger decided to set his feet to gain more purchase on his punches, but succeeded only in making himself even more of a stationary target as his poor timing and accuracy failed to improve. Having been out of the ring for 10 months, and without meaningful activity since losing in a bid for the IBF title to Steve Molitor in 2006, Hunter's rust was very evident.

By the third round it was now Booth who was the aggressor, pushing Hunter back as the former European champion fighter seemed out of ideas and was getting peppered by the smaller man.

After a dominant 4th from Booth who seemed to be picking his shots at will, Hunter’s corner sensed the fight was getting completely away, and gave their man a stern talking to, advising him to go out and give it his all. He responded by coming out with real intent for the 5th, but the fight slipped back into the same pattern with Hunter unable to pin the slick champion down. He was then forced to hold on, after Booth punished his body, before picking him apart for the remainder of the frame.

After the round, having failed to change the one-sided course of the fight, a dejected Hunter was retired by his corner without argument. Having looked out of sorts all night, he may very well need to give strong consideration to retirement from the sport.

Following the win, rumors of a big all Nottingham showdown with friend Rendall Munroe were quieted by promoter Frank Maloney and the two fighters. With a lack of domestic competition at 122lbs and the European and Commonwealth avenues blocked by Munroe, Booth will probably look to the 118lb division for his next opponent.

The obvious option is a rubber match with Ian Napa, should the Londoner regain his Lonsdale belt against Gary Davies next week. Booth could also be in the mix to take on European 118lb champion, Malik Bouziane.

On the undercard...

Tony Jeffries was given by far the toughest outing of his young career by Belarussian light-heavyweight champion Artem Solomko. Jeffries won every round on referee Andrew Wright's card in a scrappy contest but never came close to stopping Solomko, as he was extended the distance for the first time as a pro.

In his first fight under the Maloney banner, David Price looked unimpressive against Liridon Memishi who retired after two rounds due to a hand injury. Price seemed unable to press home his physical advantages and though in control, never looked like inflicting serious punishment on the German novice.

Also turning out for Maloney for the first time, much hyped super-middleweight prospect George Groves looked impressive in stopping an extremely negative Tadas Jonkus. With Jonkus (4-4) purely looking to survive, Groves forced the stoppage from referee Gary Williams in the 4th round after pinning the Lithuanian in the corner and firing in a barrage of unanswered punches.

e-mail Matt Chudley

Froch Decisions Dirrell, Abraham Trumps Taylor

2009-10-18T03:16:00.002-04:00

Jeff Pryor gives his thoughts on last night's Super Six opening round matches.

Photo © Justin McKie

So, the first night of the Super Six has come and gone and, well... it was a bit of a disappointing night to be honest.

Maybe expectations were too high, but I thought Arthur Abraham's last second KO hid some of the deficiencies of his performance, and his lack of punching clearly isn't and never was, from struggling to make weight. He just doesn't punch much. And even with that extremely low output performance he was huffing and puffing at the end.

I've been a big admirer of his for a long time, but he clearly showed some of his limitations. In retrospect I think Pavlik would have cruised against him at 160. Barring a bolt of lightning connection like that which felled Taylor in the waning moments, I believe Pavlik would have buried Arthur in a sea of one-two combinations and kept him largely at bay with his superior length and output.

Perhaps Abraham can learn something from the straight right that ultimately won him the fight. Those wide sweeping hooks that come from his hip are eye catching, but they seldom are effective. In this case, that bomb straight down the middle was something Jermain hadn't seen all night, and the surprise of it made it so effective. Arthur would be wise to mix those change up piston power shots into his usual repertoire.

He also showed that his body to head combination attack is what can really set him apart if he'd only employ it more often. Ripping shots to the ribs and then bringing a flurry right to the head is something he does with fury and success. He needs to do it until it doesn't work.

But you can't change your stripes... It was a heartbreaker for Taylor who should have been throwing his right hand a lot more, he had a real chance in this one, but I hope he seriously thinks about bowing out of the tournament and retiring. His health has to come first.

For what it's worth, I didn't think the fight was as clear cut in Abraham's favor as the announcing team on Showtime seemed to think it was. Taylor did some good work and much of Abraham's bombastic explosions of offense were wild and slipshod.

The tantalizing nugget remains; if you can stand up to Abraham's punch for twelve rounds and punch at an average, effective, pace you should be able to outpoint him. So far no one's done it. A few more of these talented men will have there chance in the coming months.

On to fight two... Dirrell has some fold in him. All kinds of speed and potential, but he was getting rattled.

I don't blame Froch for the rabbit punching; his hands were free because he wasn't the one holding on. Dirrell was putting himself in positions that presented the back of his head as a prime target. The fact is, how many times did Froch hit Dirrell in the back of the head when he wasn't holding on, or ducking and putting his head down in front of Froch. None. The illegal blows were a direct result of Dirrell's actions.

As a broad example of this principle; if a fighter were to turn his back every time his opponent came near, and the opponent clocked him in the back of the head. Who's at fault?

The instruction to protect yourself at all times is there for a reason and if you are putting yourself in a compromised position, should the other fighter be penalized for it? If this were allowed then why not always keep your back to your man until you whirl around and smack him, then quickly turn your back again.

Holding excessively, turning ones back or bending over in front of an opponent should not be a "Get Out of Jail Free" card or in this case a "You Can't Punch Me Right Now" card.

Another example, and this is one where, in my opinion, Dirrell was even more blatantly at fault, is that when a fighter starts easily going to the mat in a clinch or in some cases, willingly sticks his head under an opponent's arm and goes down unaided as Dirrell did... at what point does that become taking a knee?

Clearly the reason for such a maneuver is to avoid any punishment after committing a tactical error that has put you in a bad position. It's a fine line between accidentally getting your head stuck under an arm, and putting your head there for a little "No mas" break.

The good news for Dirrell is that towards the end of the fight, he showed real fighting spirit. Maybe that was brought on by the point deduction for holding and he felt he couldn't risk anymore, but whatever the reason, he showed he can fight like an honest to God fighter, and not look for protection in the ring.

Regardless of his, at times, lack of willingness to fight, I think Dirrell was able to prove he has the abilities to fight at this level of the sport. His surface level mental fragility, seems tempered by a back-against-the-wall steeliness in him. If he truly starts to believe in himself, watch out.

As for the scoring, I thought it was a close fight. Draw or narrow either way seemed reasonable to me. And I thought the point deduction for excessive holding was appropriate, though maybe not at that particular moment. (BTW I thought the low blow call on Taylor in the earlier fight, could have used a little more simmer time. None of those blows were particularly devastating or apparently intentional. I felt a few of Abraham's were going low too, and no warning was ever delivered.)

So with four of the super six having seen action now, these summations are what I come away with:

1. Abraham's power has held at 168 and his puzzling, though flawed, style will be a tight rope walk for everyone until the final bell.

2. Jermain Taylor has taken a lot of punishment at the hands of some of the sports premiere punchers over the last two years. It may be time to walk away, tournament be damned.

3. Dirrell is fast. Powerful. Dynamic. He doesn't believe it.

4. Froch is a fighter. He will make you not want to be a fighter.

For this spectator the night offered few answers and more questions...

The Super Six is still wide open.

Super Six Round by Round Coverage: Abraham vs Taylor & Froch vs Dirrell

2009-10-17T17:05:00.091-04:00

Welcome to The Boxing Bulletin's round by round blog coverage of the Super Six World Boxing Classic opening night fights.

Showtime's broadcast is set to begin at 8 PM EST, and updates will start as soon as the show starts.

Arthur Abraham 30-0 (168) vs Jermain Taylor 28-3-1 (166 1/4) - This bout is being broadcast on tape delay, and so will our round by round coverage. If you're watching live in Europe, we ask that you please don't post results in the comments section. Thanks.

Carl Froch 25-0 (167 1/2) vs Andre Dirrell 18-0 (167 1/2)

If you are here early, check out some of our stories on tonight's fights...

The Brave & The Bold: The Super Six Shoot-out by Jeff Pryor

Andre Dirrell Ready To Show He Belongs With Heavy Hitters by Michael Nelson

Carl Froch Is Too Rough And Tough For Andre Dirrell by Lee Payton

Can Jermain Taylor Upset Arthur Abraham by Lee Payton

Super Six Opening Night Predictions: Froch vs Dirrell & Abraham vs Taylor by The Boxing Bulletin Writers

Refresh this page often as updates will be frequent

5:00 PM EST... Coverage will start in 3 hours.

7:10... We're less than an hour away. Make sure to check back in with us at 8 sharp for the start of our coverage.

7:45... We are 15 minutes away from the start of tonight's action. Just a reminder that the Abraham/Taylor fight is being broadcast by Showtime on tape delay. Please don't post any spoilers in the comments.

8:02... The show's started. First up, Abraham vs Taylor from Berlin and then Froch vs Taylor from Nottingham. Gus Johnson is hosting the show from Nottingham.

8:03... Al Bernstein and Antonio Tarver are with Johnson in Nottingham.

8:04... Right now, Johnson is just going over the first round match-ups along with the tournament format.

8:07... Steve Albert and Steve Farhood will be handling the Berlin commentary.

8:09... Just chatter going on right now.

8:12... Looks like we're ready to go. Michael Buffer... "Let's get this party started..."

8:13... You can sense a real buzz in the arena, as the crowd is clapping as Taylor makes his way in. Good to see the visiting man getting a nice welcome.

8:14... Farhood just mentioned that Taylor had to lose 20 pounds in 20 days before the Froch fight, but has been on weight since arriving in Berlin. Taylor's now in the ring, bouncing up and down.

8:14... Albert just mentioned that Abraham has a very elaborate entrance planned.

8:17... Here comes Abraham being lowered down from a suspended platform to the sounds of a live band playing on a stage at one end of the arena. We've got some smoke and flashing lights happening as well.

8:19... Michael Buffer with the formal introductions.

8:20... The ref is Guadalupe Garcia.

8:21... Abraham is introduced first and leaps in the air as his name is called out.

8:22... Taylor does that thing where he rubs his feet back and forth on the canvas with his glove in the air as he's introduced.

8:22... We're ready to go!

8:26... Round 1 is underway. Taylor circling to his left to start. He flicks out a jab into the guard. Abraham in ring center, as Taylor slowly circles and pumps the jab into the guard. Abraham has his gloves up high as usual as he peers out between hsi guard. Taylor with a swinging left hook that misses. Taylor now fires a hook into the guard. Abraham slowly edges forward, and Taylor sticks a few jabs out. Maybe 1 got through. Abraham now comes forward and fires a right hand that Taylor appears to have blocked. Abraham now tries to jab to the body. Taylor with a couple more jabs into the guard. 1:10 to go. Taylor has his left low as usual, with his right poised. Now he fires a right hand to the body. Abraham misses over the top with a big hook as Taylor ducks underneath. Taylor now with a left/right combo, but those seem to have been picked off. Abraham edges forward, not really letting his hands go though. Taylor now moves right and then left. Abraham is short with a jab. Taylor with a 1-2, not sure if either got through, but he fires a right hand to the body that landed. Taylor with a left that may have got through. There's the bell. Solid round for Taylor.

8:27...We just saw a highlight of Abraham getting through with a right hand. I had initially thought the shot had been blocked, but it got through.

8:31... Abraham edging forward here. Taylor flicking the jab and and slowly moving from left to right. Abraham with the gloves up high, picking off most of these jabs. Now he fires his own jab which is blocked. Taylor with a couple jabs, and then flurries to the body, and one appeared to stray low there. Abraham reacts by backing away and the ref has called time. Replay confirms it was definitely low and Abraham is getting some time to recover. We're back at it. Maybe 30 seconds break there. 1:35 to go in the round. Taylor sticking the jab out. Abraham responds with his own jab that gets through. Now Abraham comes forward and fires a winging right that seemed to catch Taylor around the guard. Taylor flicking a couple more jabs out. A couple more. Now he digs an uppercut on the inside that seemed to land. Taylor with a 1-2. Taylor now tries to dig to the body, and then wings a hook that misses. Abraham with a 1-2 that's short. Taylor the busier of the two fighters. Abraham comes forward with a 1-2, and then fires a left that I think got through. Now Abraham comes forward, fires a 1-2, and Taylor grabbed a hold of him, and Abraham then appeared to land a shot to the back of Taylor's head in the clinch. Taylor got a little turned around in the clinch there, and Abraham whacked him.

8:35... Valuev is in attendance. We just saw a shot of him. Farhood has Taylor winning the first 2. Taylor is sticking out the jab to start the 3rd round, and moving from left to right. Abraham patiently following. Abraham sticks out a jab that's short. Action mostly in the middle of the ring, although Taylor is doing a fair bit of moving, but never getting pinned on the ropes. He's looking fairly comfortable. Taylor with a hook that might have got around Abraham's guard. Abraham with the gloves up catching a jab. Taylor with ac couple more jabs into the guard, but then gets a jab through. Then fires a couple more into the guard. And a couple more. Albert commenting that Taylor's expending energy here. Taylor with a 1-2. The right hand might have got through around the guard. Now Abraham fires a big right hand that misses. Now he fires one that lands clean. Best punch of the fight by either man there. Taylor fires back with a jab. Now Abraham digs to the body with a 1-2. Abraham fires a hard right hand again. Might have got through with that one. Now Abraham comes forward, and Taylor ties him up and Abraham again fires to the back of Taylor's head. Garcia doesn't seem interested though as Taylor complains.

8:35... Garcia just came to Taylor's corner and said he wants a clean fight. Perhaps he should warn Abraham for whacking Taylor behind the head if that's the case.

8:39... Taylor comes charging out of his corner to start round 4, firing off a combo. Not sure though if anything landed though. Albert comments that Taylor appears really ticked off about some of those rabbit shots. Taylor now fires a combo to the body and he's warned by Garcia. That did appear low, but he's got to be calling this from both sides as I didn't notice him saying a word to Abraham earlier. Now Taylor resumes firing the jab into the guard. He fires a right hand in behind a jab that was also blocked. More jabs from Taylor and another right is blocked. Taylor is having a hard time getting through Abraham's guard. Now Abraham edges forward, and almost slipped. Abraham edging forward, firing the jab, but Taylor slips out of trouble before Abraham could fire off a right. Now Abraham comes forward and flurries to the body. Abraham a little more active now. Now Taylor fires an uppercut into the guard, and then fires a body shot. Abraham comes back with some hard body shots. Abraham flicking the jab out. Abraham tries to flurry with about 10 seconds left. Taylor tries to respond. There's the bell, and the fighters touch gloves to acknowledge the fight heating up.

8:40... Abraham's corner telling to trust himself, and they want some action from their fighter.

8:44... Round 5 is underway. Taylor flicking the jab out. Abraham responds with his own jab that lands. Taylor with a jab that gets through. Abraham digs to the body. Now Abraham with a jab. Abraham getting busier. He's landing that jab when he throws it. Taylor short with his own jab. Abraham's guard has come down, he looks a little looser here in the 5th. Now Taylor with a couple jabs and Abraham has the guard back up and catches them both. Taylor then tries to flurry to the body, but Abraham gets in that shell and catches the shots on the elbows. Abraham coming forward, and lands a jab. Now Abraham flurrying to the body. Abraham with a 1-2. Abraham flicks out a jab, that's just short. Farhood comments that this has been by far Abraham's most effective round and it definitely has been. Action in the center of the ring. There's a decent but messy exchange as both fighters let their hands go. Abraham with a jab. Abraham with a jab and a hard right hand. That pushed Taylor back. Taylor now edging ever so closer towards the ropes, and now gets back into the center of the ring. There's another exchange just before the bell.

8:45... Jim Gray is with Carl Froch in Nottingham. He's asking Froch about his comment regarding Dirrell only arriving in England 6 days before the fight. Froch mentions that he feels you need a longer period to get comfortable.

8:49... Back to Berlin. Round 6. Abraham with a left hand, and a right hand. Abraham looking determined here. Taylor though responds with a flurry, although Abraham's got those ear muffs on and appears to catch most of it. Abraham edging forward. He fires a jab, that's short, and then the fighters get tied up. Taylor jabs into the gloves. More jabs from Taylor, one might have got through. Abraham tries to flurry, but his shots are blocked as well. Abraham now digs hard to the body. Taylor jabs, and then eats a counter jab. Taylor flicking out the jabs, and then fires a combo downstairs. Abraham reacts saying it's low and Garcia agrees. He's taking a point! Come'on! It's been a chippy fight. Abraham's committed his share on infractions, and now to take a point from Taylor!? Taylor gets back to jabbing as the action resumes. Abraham with a 1-2. Now the ref again cautions Taylor to keep them up. Abraham has the shell defense, and the elbows tucked, and there's not much room to find an opening. Now Abraham backs Taylor up with a jab and a right hand. Taylor trying to jab back. Abraham with a hook that's just short. Taylor misses with a counter. That's followed by a sloppy exchange. There's the bell. Things getting a little frantic.

8:49... They showed a replay. It was low, and Taylor has been warned. But I think a point was still very harsh, given the chippy nature of the bout. Neither man has been totally clean.

8:53... Round 7. Taylor with a jab, and fires a right hand. Abraham with the gloves up, comes forward and sticks a jab. Taylor now short with a jab, and fires a couple into the guard. Taylor now short with a jab. Taylor misses with a right uppercut. Now he does get a jab through. Abraham fires a hook that misses. Taylor jabbing and moving to his left. Abraham with a right into the guard. Taylor with a jab. Abraham with a jab and an overhand right that I think got through. Now Abraham digs with a flurry to the body. Abraham now lowering his hands a bit and slips a Taylor jab as he backs away. Now he's got the gloves up again. Taylor jabbing and gets one through. Albert comments that the jab is the only thing getting through for Taylor and it's not doing any damage. Now Abraham fires to the body. He lands a chopping right as well. Now there's a clinch, and the fighters heads almost came together. Taylor looked tempted to whack Abraham in the back of the head during the clinch but resisted. Now Abraham comes forward with a 1-2. Now he digs to the body and has Taylor backing up. Taylor quickly on the retreat. Taylor tries to jab, but misses as the round ends.

8:53... Taylor's corner is telling him to watch Abrham's right hand. He says he's seeing it.

8:56... Albert comments that things are getting urgent in the Taylor corner. The fight has definitely turned during the last 3 rounds. Taylor though keeps working the jab. He now tries to counter Abraham who lunged in with a right hand, but misses. Taylor comes forward and Abraham slips a right hand. Abraham with the gloves up, comes forward and fires a right hand. Another one, but that missed. Action in the center of the ring. Taylor short with a jab. Abraham short with a right as Taylor backs away. 1:30 to go. Farhood comments that Abraham is inconsistent with his offense and Albert agrees that his attacks are sporadic. Taylor with a nice jab. Another nice jab. Abrham with his gloves down now as he backs away. Now Abraham fires back with a right, although it missed. Taylor tries to respond with his right, but doesn't get through. Now Abraham attacks and backs Taylor up with a flurry to the body. Abraham is fighting in spurts, but they are more effective than Taylor's steady jabs that are mostly blocked. Another round to Abraham says Farhood at the bell. He's got the hometown fighter up by 1 after 8.

8:58... Jim Gray is with Dirrell. Andre admits being a little nervous. He says if Froch thinks he's going to get tired, he's in for a big shock.

9:01... Taylor sticking the jab out to start the 9th. Not really getting through with it. Abraham has the gloves up, catching these. Now Abraham with his hands down low and he avoids a couple shots from Taylor as he backs off. Abraham now blocks a couple shots to the body. Abraham with a big right hand! That staggered Taylor. Taylor is looking a bit unsteady as Abraham chases him. Abraham trying to flurry, but Taylor holds on. Abraham fires a big right, but misses. Taylor seems to have his legs back. Some nervous moments though for 15-20 seconds. Abraham following, but not letting his hands go. Now they tie up. Farhood comments on the inconsistency of Abraham's attack as he felt he could have really tried to pour it on but didn't. Taylor now back to firing the jab. He lands one. Abraham not throwing. Now he's backing off with his hands down. Perhaps a bit winded from the sudden rush of energy. Now Taylor with a jab that's short. 10 seconds to go. Abraham with his left hanging low, backing away as the bell rings.

9:02... It was a short straight right that hurt Taylor. He looked in a fair bit of trouble for a few seconds, but managed to move and hold.

9:05... Round 10. Taylor back to the jab. Abraham with the gloves up, edging forward. Taylor jabbing into the guard. Abraham with a jab into the guard. Farhood comments that Taylor has just not been effective since the 5th round. Abraham misses with a right. Taylor jabbing, and circling. Now they clinch. 2:00 to go. Taylor short with a hook. Abraham short with a jab. Taylor with a jab. Strange that Abraham hasn't really pressed and tried to test Taylor. He might be a bit tired as well. Now he comes forward and flurries to the body. Albert comments that Abraham looks a bit winded. Now Abraham with his guard down. He tries to flurry, but misses as Taylor backs away. Now he attacks with both hands. I think a couple got through, although Taylor had his gloves up. Now Taylor backing away, as Abraham edges forward. Abraham with a right. Now Abraham with a 1-2. Abraham pressing a bit over the last 30 seconds. Now he misses with a couple hooks. 10 seconds to go. Abraham fires a right at the bell, which I think was blocked.

9:10... Round 11. Abraham appears to be in control at the moment, but he's got an issue with his trunks slipping down in the back. His corner has tied them up to avoid a potentially embarrassing mishap. Albert comments that it's been a very difficult second half of the fight for Taylor. Taylor flicking out the jab to start the round. Abraham with the gloves up, patiently stalking. Taylor with a shot that strayed low, but Garcia missed it. Abraham with a jab. Taylor with a jab. Abraham comes forward, firing shots to the body as Taylor backs into the ropes. Abraham tries to flurry, but Taylor gets out of there. Action moves back to the middle of the ring. Abraham now is the one circling, as Taylor pressing. Taylor fires a right hand that lands. Now Taylor jabbing into the guard. Now Abraham with a jab into the guard, and he backs up Taylor. A jab, and a 1-2 from Abraham who backs Taylor into the ropes and flurries to the body. Taylor gets out of there though. Abraham with his left hand hanging low now as he's boxing from the outside. Taylor tries to dig to the body. Now Taylor misses with a right. I think both fighters are looking a little tired here. Abraham fires a 1-2 that backs Taylor off. Abraham edges forward with the jab. Now he fires a right hand that backs Taylor off, and fires another right hand. There's the bell.

9:15... Round 12. Taylor needs something dramatic here. Albert says that he has to know he's behind. Taylor edges forward behind the jab. He fires a right hand, but it's blocked. Abraham with the guard up. Taylor with a jab into the guard. Both Albert and Farhood comment that Taylor is showing no urgency. He's just firing jabs and the occasional right from a distance, but not pressing. He sticks a couple jabs in. Abraham fires a right. Abraham now digs to the body. Every once in awhile, Abraham goes on the offensive, usually with more success than Taylor. Now Abrhaam tries to flurry with some big shots, but caught mostly air. 1:00 to go. Abrhaam lands a left hook. Abraham with a right hand. Abraham turning it up here. He landed a right hand. Now he's circling as Taylor comes forward. Taylor is short with a jab though. 30 seconds to go. Taylor has a right hand blocked. Abraham with his hands down, backs away as Taylor misses a right. Wow! A huge shot by Abraham. Taylor is flat on his back! He's out. He crashed straight backwards towards the canvas. Garcia started to count, but there was no point! This is over.

9:16... Taylor is thankfully up and appears to be okay. Abraham is on the turnbuckle saluting the crowd. There's a shot of Mikkel Kessler clapping with a smile.

9:17... That was a one shot deal there, and looked scary for a moment as Taylor was flat on his back. Credit to Abraham for going over to check on Taylor before he started celebrating too wildly. The replay just showed that it was a short right hand on the button that followed a wild left hook.

9:18... Taylor is walking around the ring. He's okay, which is good to see. He went down VERY hard.

9:20... Albert mentions that Taylor is not eliminated - it's a round robin format - not single elimination, and that he'll be fighting Andre Ward next. You have to ask if that's a good idea? After 2 straight KO's? Granted the fights have been set, but Taylor's team and the tournament organizers I think need to consider whether that's in his best interests.

9:20... The official time was 2:54 of round 12. Now we're off to Nottingham.

9:26... Back to Berlin for an interview with Abraham. "Taylor is a good fighter, maybe I'm better." He says with a smile. "I was going for the KO, but I knew I was ahead on points." I should mention this is with the help of an interpreter. Farhood asks if going for a KO was on his mind since KO winners get an extra point. "No, only win is very important." How does he see the Froch/Dirrell fight? "My full focus has been on Taylor, and I haven't seen a single fight of Dirrell." To close, Arthur says he's looking forward to coming to America.

9:27... Now we're back to Nottingham with Johnson, Bernstein and Tarver.

9:30... After some chatter from those guys, we're back to Berlin. Farhood is with Taylor outside his dressing room. "I'm a little hurt, but that comes along with the territory. I trained hard and gave it all I had, but didn't get the victory." Where did you think you were in the fight going into the 12th asks Farhood? "I don't even remember... he just caught me. I thought I was in the best shape of my life... This is boxing, you've got expect the worst sometimes, this is a hard sport."

9:31... Back to Nottingham. Bernstein tells us the scores were 107-101, 106-102 and 105-103 for Abraham going into the 12th.

9:37... Just chatter going on right now.

9:38... Looks like we're getting underway. Jimmy Lennon Jr. with the intros and Andre Dirrell is making his way in.

9:39... Dirrell looks very relaxed as he heads to the ring. He waves to the crowd before he steps through the ropes. He's holding a US flag in each glove.

9:40... Here comes Froch to the sounds of, "We will rock you." He looks calm as well, but a little more intense than Dirrell.

9:41... Froch acknowledges the crowd before stepping through the ropes. He's got a black rope, with the hood still on and looks an intimidating figure.

9:43... Jimmy Lennon Jr. with the introductions.

9:44... The ref is Hector Afu.

9:45... "Live from Nottingham England, it's Showtime!"

9:46... Not the warmest reception for Dirrell. Some scattered boos.

9:47... The crowd is buzzing as Froch is introduced.

9:48... The fighters receiving their final instructions in the center of the ring.

9:48... Dirrell's in green and Froch in black.

9:48... We're underway.

9:52... Bernstein mentions the ring is 20*20 as will all the rings in the Super Six tournament. Both fighters very cautious to start, sizing each other up in the middle of the ring, with neither really taking the initiative. Now they both fire jabs from a distance. According to Johnson, Dirrell plans on fighting out of the orthodox stance for most of the bout. Very cagey stuff to start. Neither committing here. Now Froch comes forward with a wild left hook that misses badly. Dirrell flicking out a couple jabs that are short. Dirrell edging forward here, and he's talking to Froch. 1:00 to go. Taver comments on the difference in hand speed between the two fighters being very apparent early. Now Dirrell switches to southpaw. Froch comes forward and misses with a right as Dirrell dances away. 20 seconds left. Froch jabs to the body. 10 seconds to go. Dirrell with a jab. Froch is short with a jab. There's the bell.

9:55... Froch flicking out the jab here to start round 2. Both men still keeping their distance. Dirrell with a jab. Froch trying to edge forward, but not committing to the attack yet. Dirrell again flicks out a jab. Froch edges forward with the jab. Dirrell is short with a jab. 1:30 to go. Dirrell with a jab to the body. Froch tries to fire back with a right, but Dirrell backs away quickly. Dirrell now with a right hand to the body. Froch short with a right to the body, and is short with a jab. 1:00 to go. Froch edging forward with his left low, and fires a really wild right that misses badly. Now he chases Dirrell to the other side of the ring. Froch short with a couple jabs. 30 seconds left. Froch is having a problem getting close says Johnson. Dirrell with a sharp jab. 15 seconds left. Froch edges forward, but not throwing and Dirrell slips away.

9:58... Froch edging forward, as Dirrell moving to his left, and now to his right. Dirrell now boxing out of the southpaw stance. Froch edging forward, flicks the jab out but not landing it. Now he tries to chase Dirrell who slides away to his left. Froch moving forward, but Dirrell fires a jab, and a left to the body that's short. Froch showing respect for Dirrell's countering ability, as he's not just rushing in hard. 1:30 to go. Froch now edges forward, and misses. Dirrell misses with a counter. Froch is stalking, Dirrell is using the whole ring, and Froch is having a very hard time getting close enough. Dirrell hasn't really landed too much himself, but the occasional jab is finding the mark. Froch gtting closeer, and eats a counter, but then charges forward and Dirrell escapes to the other side of the ring at full speed. Froch fires a right hand, that is short. Dirrell really using a lot of movement here. Froch with a jab, that may have got through. Dirrell with a jab at the bell.

9:59... We just saw a replay of Froch chasing Dirrell accross the ring and getting a right hand in.

10:02...Dirrell fighting out of the southpaw stance here to start the 4th. He fires a straight left to the body that's short. Now he fires a left that may have got through. He's now edging forward a bit. Action now in the middle of the ring. A lot of feinting going on. Nice combo from Dirrell as Froch came forward. Now Dirrell with a sharp jab. Forch comes forward and Dirrell escapes to his left. Bernstein comments that it's important for Froch to go to the body. Johnson comments that there may be some blood coming from Dirrell's upper lift. Froch is short with a jab. Dirrell on the move to his left, now to his right. Froch misses with a right. Froch is chasing Dirrell as Dirrell going from one side of the ring to the other. Dirrell then stops and tries to fire a right that misses as Froch backs off. Froch trying to get closer. He fires a right hand as Dirrell backs into the corner and Dirrell ties him up. Action moves back to the middle of the ring.

10:05... Not thrilling stuff so far. Dirrell has landed the more effective shots, but he's doing a hell of a lot of running. Now Dirrell is back to righty to start this round, and he lands a right hand. Forch edging forward, but not fully committing to the attack as he's respecting Dirrell's speed on the counter. 2:00 to go. Dirrell fighting southpaw again. Forch feints with a right, but doesn't throw it, and Dirrell fires back with a right, and then they get tangled and Froch throws Dirrell down. Froch is given a warning which he acknowledges and the action resumes. 1:30 to. Dirrell comes forward and lands a right. Froch having a hell of a hard time getting close. Everytime he gets into range, Dirrell gets out of there quick. 55 seconds left. Froch is short with a jab. Dirrell short with his own jab. Dirrell with a right, then they clinch and Froch with a right hand in the clinch. Dirrell charges forward and they get tied up. The action has been fairly awkward at times here. Froch tries to mix it up, but Dirrell again gets out of there.

10:09... Action in the middle of the ring to start the 6th. Dirrell boxing out of the southpaw stance. Froch throwing the jab, an then lunges forward with a wild 1-2 that misses. Then Dirrell slips to the canvas. No knockdown there, and the ref wipes his gloves and they are back at it and there's a clinch. Dirrell now edging forward, and Froch tries to counter, and ends up getting Dirrell in a head lock. Some sloppy stuff here. Now Froch edges forward, is short with a jab, and Dirrell misses a counter and they clinch. Froch charges forward, and lands a decent left hand. Dirrell I think was bothered by that and he grabbed Froch. Froch responded by banging Dirrell in the clinch, and the ref tells them to keep it clean. Now Dirrell fires a hard 1-2. Froch keeps coming. Dirrell on his toes, going left, then right. Now Froch tries to attack and Dirrell locks up Froch's arm. More messy stuff. "Froch wants to get it a little ugly in there." - Bernstein. Now Froch presses forward and misses with a right as Dirrell slips away. Now Dirrell tries to grab Froch and Froch backs away and Dirrell slips to the canvas. Dirrell's winning this here, but his style is not a pleasing one. A lot o moving with some holding to go with it.

10:12... Froch misses with a jab, and Dirrell lands a coutner. Action in the middle of the ring as round 7 is underway. Froch edges forward. Dirrell sticks the jab and backs off. Froch trying to attack, but Dirrell slips away and they clinch. Dirrell with a jab. "A lot of close rounds." - Bernstein. Al has it 58-56 for Dirrell. Now Froch edges forward, backs Dirrell into a counter, but misses and Dirrell gets out of there. Now Froch lands a right, and Dirrell grabs a hold of him immediately. Now Dirrell grabs Froch again on the inside. The ref now warns Dirrell for all the holding. I'm not enjoying Dirrell's style at all tonight. Now he grabs Froch again. 1:00 to go. Froch comes forward, and Dirrell misses with a counter and ties Froch up who whacks Dirrell in the clinch. More holding from Dirrell. If this keeps up, the ref would be well within his rights to take a point. The ref is again warning Dirrell. Froch whacks Dirrell in the clinch and Dirrell doesn't like it. He had a word for the ref there. Froch then attacked and was caught with a hard left hook. Good shot there from Dirrell.

10:13... We just a replay of a couple of shots Froch landed on the inside.

10:16... Round 8. Al has it 1 point fight for Dirrell. Action in the middle of the ring. Dirrell with a decent counter over Froch's jab. Dirrell sticking the jab. Froch coming forward, Dirrell backing up and now moving to his left. He tries to jump in with a right, but is short. Now Dirrell again tries to jump in, but he slips to the canvas. Dirrell with a good right hand counter that catches Froch on the way in. Froch took it well and comes forward. Dirrell ties him up though. Froch trying to work in the clinch. Again Dirrell ties him up. Froch is getting rough in those clinches. Now Dirrell again holding and Froch trying to fight out of it. Nice to see the ref letting him do that. Dirrell with a solid counter right again. Froch though keeps coming and lands a hard left hand. That got Dirrell's attendion. Now Dirrell tries to hold on. Froch backs him. Dirrell grabs a hold of him. Yet another clinch. 10 seconds to go. Froch presses forward and gets tied up again. Messy stuff.

10:19... Round 9. Scorecards should be interesting. Direll with a couple of jabs to open the round. He's boxing righty at the moment. Froch edging forward. Froch is short with a jab. Dirrell backing away. Direll now with a jab, and then gets out of there. Froch charges forward as Dirrell backs away. Froch with a jab. Froch misses with a hook. Froch edging forward. Dirrell moving to his left. Tarver comments that Dirrell has a knot by his right eye and it might matter later on. Nice counter left from Dirrell as Froch was coming in. Now Dirrell switches southpaw. Froch tries to attack, and they clinch. Froch comes forward and lands with a hook, while Dirrell lands with a counter and grins. Froch comes forward and tries to rough Dirrell up as they clinch. Froch edges forward and Dirrell ducks down and Froch nails him, an the ref warns Froch for hitting behind the head. He was guilty of it there. Now they clinch again. 20 seconds left. Froch comes forward and tries to bang the body as Dirrell backs along the ropes. Froch again tries to dig downstairs, and they mix it up along the ropes. Al though that was a good round for Froch, while Johnson thought it was a good round for Dirrell.

10:23... Dirrell with a couple jabs to start the 10th. Dirrell with a counter right. Dirrell in the southpaw stance. Froch comes forward and presses Dirrell in the counter, only to get tied up. Froch keeps coming. He misses wildly with a right and gets tied up again. 2:00 to go. Froch coming forward, but Dirrell lands a counter and ties him up. Dirrell with a left hand. Froch with a jab. Froch presses forward, and they get tied up in the corner. Froch with a jab, and a right hand in the clinch. Froch now bangs the body with a right hand, and Dirrell ties him up along the ropes and walks him into the corner. Now Dirrell is going to lose a point for holding. Al's not a fan of the deduction, pointing out that both men have been breaking the rules. Froch pressing forward. Dirrell slips away to his left, but eats a right hand. Froch now misses with a big right, and eats a big counter left hand. That caught Froch flush. Now Dirrell goes after Froch, but is wild in doing so. Froch now resumes the chase, and Dirrell gets back to moving. 10 seconds left. Froch attacks, and got hurt by a counter left. Froch looked in a bit of trouble as Dirrel went after him, but Froch fires back before the bell.

10:24... Froch's corner isn't pleased. "You're walking in with your hands down!"

10:24... It was a counter right from Dirrell that landed hard near the end of the 10th.

10:27... Al points out that this is first time Dirrell has seen the 11th round. Dirrell is fighting southpaw again. Froch comes forward and tries to bang the body. He presses Dirrell in the corner, but Dirrell makes him miss and fires back with a counter. Froch follows as Dirrell escapes. Now Dirrell lands a hard left hand! That caught Froch flush, and Dirrell goes after him. Now Froch with a hard right hand! Dirrell ties him up immediately. Some decent shots getting exchanged here in the 11th. Froch with a left hand misses over the top with a right. Now Froch bangs the body. Now FRoch with a jab and chases Dirrell accross the ring. Froch trying to flurry, but Dirrell rolling with these shots on the ropes. Now Froch smacks him with a short right in the clinch. Fronch with a nice combo. 30 seconds left. Dirrell with a nice counter. Now they clinch again. Dirrell misses with a right. Now Froch comes back with a right hand just before the bell.

10:28... Round 12 coming up.

10:28... "Back him up." - Froch's corner.

10:31... Froch coming forward here in the 12th, but Dirrell lands a counter. Now Froch tries to flurry, but can't land. Dirrell gets out of there. Now Dirrell firs a hard right, that's blocked. Now they clinch again. Dirrell with a left hand counter. Froch coming forward. Dirrell moving to his right. Dirrell jumps in with a combo. Froch witha right hand uppercut. Now they clinch. Dirrell walks Froch into the ropes in the clinch. 1:30 to go. Froch with a jab. FRoch just misses with a right hand, and Dirrell escapes to his right. 1:10 to go. They exchange jabs. Dirrell comes forard with a 1-2, and they clinch. Froch trying to come back, but Dirrell again fires back. Froch presses Direll into the corner and tries to flurry. Now Dirrell ties him up. 30 seconds to go. Froch again backs Dirrell into the corner and tries to Flurry. Dirrell though comes back with his own flurry. 10 seconds left. Froch trying to close strong. Dirrell back pedals and Froch chases. Froch tries to flurry along the ropes, and there's the bell. This one is going to the cards.

10:32... I think Dirrell's got this one. His tactics weren't pleasing, but he landed the cleaner shots.

10:33... Here's Jimmy Lennon with the decision. It's a split one. 114-113 for Dirrell. 115-112 for Froch. The fighters are seated on one knee together in the middle of the ring awaiting the final card. 115-112 for the winner... Carl Froch.

10:34... Great sportsmanship from both men there.

10:36... Jim Gray is with Dirrell. Dirrell feels like he earned the decision, but isn't too angry. He's not pleased though about the point deduction.

10:37... Gray asks Dirrell if he felt he had a chance to win the decision in Nottingham. "Of course I did, or I wouldn't have come out here."

10:38... Very classy from Dirrell. He says he'll be back in the gym working harder, and takes nothing away from Froch.

10:39... Gus and Al are chatting now, as they wait for Gray to get a hold of Froch.

10:40... Press row had it 115-113, 115-114 for Froch and 114-114. Al likes the 114-114 card.

10:41... Froch is now with Gray. He feels he won the fight. He says that Dirrell just didn't want to stand and fight and though very negatively. "What am I supposed to do if he's not going to stand and fight?"

10:42... Gray asks Froch what he thinks of Dirrell calling it a hometown decision. "That's nonsense." You know, that's not fair at all from Gray. Dirrell was very respectful in the interview and accepted the result, and Gray really had to bring any complaints out of him. To then tell Froch that Dirrell's full of complaints is bull-shit.

10:43... Gray asks Froch about Kessler... "I'm looking forward to it... he'll stand and trade with him and that's what the fans want to see."

10:44... That's it for our coverage of the Super Six Opening Night. Hope you enjoyed it and make sure you come back and check out our future round by round blogs.

10:45... One final note. Jermain Taylor was taken to hospital for observations as he suffered a concussion. Sounds like it's strictly precautionary.

Super Six Opening Night Predictions: Froch vs Dirrell & Abraham vs Taylor

2009-10-17T09:48:00.003-04:00

Showtime's Super Six tournament gets underway tonight with two big opening round fights.

Leading off from Berlin's O2 World Arena will be Arthur Abraham against Jermain Taylor (tape delayed), followed by a trip to Nottingham's Trent FM Arena for the match-up between Carl Froch and Andre Dirrell.

Make sure to check out our round by round coverage of both fights, starting at 8 PM EST.

Let's get to our writer's picks...

Carl Froch vs Andre Dirrell & Arthur Abraham vs Jermain Taylor

Froch/Dirrell - I view Dirrell as the weakest fighter in the Super Six tournament and don’t believe he’ll record a win in the competition. He’s got good footwork, flashy combinations and has quick hands, but he doesn’t seem to carry serious power, has a big question mark over his chin and has no experience of fighting at this level.

I think Froch will start slowly before settling into his usual methodical rhythm. Dirrell might be hard to hit clean early on but I think as soon as Froch starts to land, he’ll hurt Dirrell and stop him. I think Froch will win by stoppage sometime in the final four rounds.

Abraham/Taylor - I feel the fight between Jermain Taylor and Arthur Abraham will be a much closer affair than the Froch-Dirrell fight but will take on a similar pattern. I think Taylor will do well in the first six rounds before his stamina problem resurfaces and allows Abraham back into the fight.

I can see Taylor being ahead on the scorecards before getting stopped late on. It’ll be interesting how Abraham fights at super- middleweight, although it’s worth noting that he demolished Edison Miranda up at super-middle in their rematch of June last year. If that fight is anything to go by, Abraham might be a much bigger puncher at the higher weight, which spells danger for Taylor.

- Dave Oakes

Froch/Dirrell - Completely agree with Dave's first paragraph. I also view Dirrell as the weakest fighter of the bunch. He has some physical tools... and that's about it. Chin's too high, defense is amateurish and so is his delivery. I think he has to come out of nowhere with a huge KO shot to defeat Froch. Given the youngster's lack of one punch knockouts, and the man from Nottingham's chin, that seems like more than a bit of a stretch.

I'll take Froch to rough him up on his way to a clear decision. Dirrell is going to be introduced to a whole new level of fighting, as well as pain.

Abraham/Taylor - Many people are going to disagree with me on this, but I think this is Taylor's fight to lose. I really believe he has an advantage in physical stature as well as the style to force Abraham out of his game a little bit. If Jermain can maintain a safe distance most of the night, he'll keep his opponent's hands pasted to his face with jabs and long rights that don't need to land clean. As long as he keeps Arthur busy on defense, he'll be able to fight at his pace.

I think the key to beat Abraham is to stay at long range. He wants to counter aggression with his bombs, but if you don't give him anything he'll be content to just block the incoming. Many think that his lack of aggression in the recent past is because of the toll making 160 had on his body, and I think there is something to that, but I also believe he is just a patient and careful fighter.

Arthur can end the fight at any moment with his cannon ball fists, but I'm going to go with my gut and say this fight lasts 12 rounds. It's going to be hard for Taylor to get a decision in Germany, and that crowd will probably bring out some doubt in him, so I'll go with Abraham to up the pressure just enough to get a close decision.

- Lee Payton

Check out Lee's Previews for both of tonight's fights: Can Jermain Taylor Upset Arthur Abraham? & Carl Froch Is Too Rough And Tough for Andre Dirrell

Froch/Dirrell - I think Andre Dirrell is being a little underrated here. True he's completely untested at this level, but he's got a ton of natural ability - quick feet, quick hands and some good pop. I'd rate him #4 of the 6 fighters - just a little ahead of Ward (I've got Taylor 6th).

I'm picking Froch to grind out the win, but I think he'll be pushed in a similar manner to the Pascal fight - and this one might even be a bit tougher.

Abraham/Taylor - I think Taylor can outwork Abraham early, but 12 rounds is a long time. Taylor always seems to be in very good condition - but he still gets tired. I think it's a tension issue. He just never seems relaxed and comfy in the ring, and I think against a crunching puncher like Abraham, those nervous issues aren't going to dissapear.

I like Taylor to get out to an early lead - and then 1 of 2 things will happen.

Abraham will land a sudden fight changing punch to turn things around, or Taylor will start to slowly fade and Abraham will steadily gain the advantage. Either way, I think Abraham takes it.

- Andrew Fruman

Froch/Dirrell - I agree with the notion that Dirrell, at this point is near the bottom of the pack and probably has the most to prove, however he also has the most upside.

I think someone gets embarrassed in Dirrell-Froch... meaning someone gets knocked out. Froch looked very slow against Taylor earlier this year, and Dirrell is faster than Taylor in my opinion. Dirrell has major firepower when he lets his hands go, and he could rise to the top of the tournament if he reaches the potential he may have. However, I think Froch is so determined and so willful that he will break Dirrell by the fights end.

I look for Dirrell's speed to be flashy and effective early, Froch to plod after him and ultimately put Dirrell in all out retreat mode. If the ending is as explosive as I think it will be, whoever wins this will suddenly be a tournament favorite. I like Froch by stoppage, but wouldn't be surprised if he went through major strife to do it. To me, Froch is the dark horse to take the whole thing.

Abraham/Taylor - As for the Taylor-Abraham bout, I agree with Lee that this is Jermain's to lose... the problem for him is that when a fight is his to lose, he usually loses it. Still, of all the match-up's for Taylor this one seems to provide him with the most advantages, as he will be the faster, busier man. If he can find the right pace, he may force Abraham into mounting an all out onslaught for a late KO win.

To me it's a 50-50 fight. I'll go with the mild upset and say Jermain puts it together against an Abraham who gets a little too defensive in the face of Jermain's quick combos. Abraham let's him off the hook enough during the fight for Taylor to take it slow and survive the twelve on the way to a close points victory.

- Jeff Pryor

Check out Jeff's Super Six Preview: The Brave & The Bold: The Super Six Shoot-out

Abraham/Taylor - Taylor’s going to lose. I don’t see where he has any advantages in the fight. HBO has manufactured this jab of his and his combinations aren’t that quick. They are quite loopy, and will give Abraham plenty of chances to find spots to counter.

I think the main reason Abraham doesn’t throw that many punches has to do with the trouble he's been having to make 160. He's been draining himself badly to make weight, and that's not the case this time. He looked like a wrecking machine at the weigh-in, and the decimation will begin right from the opening bell.

Froch/Dirrell - I'm leaning towards Froch by stoppage. For all Dirrell's athletic advantages, this is a very big jump in competition and my gut tells me he'll fold under the kind of pressure Froch will bring. Of course my gut has been wrong before, and I wouldn't be shocked to see Dirrell take it.

- Mark Lyons

Froch/Dirrell - I agree with Andy on both fights, except I'm on the fence concerning Dirrell-Froch. I think Dirrell's power is a bit underrated, and if Froch gets too reckless, he's gonna get hurt. I expect drama regardless of the winner. Force me to make a pick and I'll say Dirrell survives a late rally to eek out a decision.

Abraham/Taylor - I think Abraham-Taylor will play out like Froch-Taylor. Abe loses the first six rounds before coming back to KO Taylor in ten.

- Michael Nelson

Check out Michael's Froch/Dirrell Preview: Andre Dirrell Ready To Show He Belongs With The Heavy Hitters

Abraham/Taylor - I think Taylor pulls the upset. He's bigger, faster has better overall boxing skills and has fought the better opposition. If Taylor runs out of gas again, Abraham will have a real puncher's chance, but otherwise I see this being a decision win for Taylor.

Froch/Dirrell - Froch hits harder and has fought better opposition yet I can't see him being able to deal with a fighter as athletic and fast as Dirrell. It's pretty much the same thing as Taylor vs Abraham... if Dirrell gets tired, he'll get caught and finished, but otherwise he'll win by UD.

- Ivan Montiel

Andre Dirrell Ready To Show He Belongs With The Heavy Hitters

2009-10-16T19:19:00.001-04:00

Michael Nelson takes a look at Andre Dirrell's chances of pulling the upset in tomorrow night's Showtime Super Six Opener.

Along with Jermain Taylor vs Arthur Abraham, the Froch vs Dirrelll bout will be shown in the UK live on PPV. Click here for more info.

Having been fed largely overmatched opposition thus far in his career, Andre 'The Matrix' Dirrell is taking the largest leap of the six combatants in Showtime's groundbreaking tournament. The 27 year old from Flint, Michigan will be immediately thrown into the lion's den, travelling to Nottingham to take on rugged WBC champion Carl Froch.

Is he ready for the big cats?

His skeptics present a legitimate case. The 6'2 switch hitter has relied on his athleticism and speed to handle guys he generally towers over. He makes several mistakes - pulling straight back, leaving his hands low, and leaping in with single shots - that could cost him dearly against a skilled opponent his size. Such technical deficiencies mixed with a chin that seems less than granite means he has a smaller margin of error than Froch, and can be a recipe for disaster tomorrow night.

In fact, Froch backers need only to look at Andre's 7th fight, a tough scrap against tall journeyman Alfonso Rocha, for evidence of what their man might do. After telegraphing a left hand out of the southpaw stance, Dirrell got caught with a well-timed counter right that immediately lifted him off his feet. He was fortunate that it happened at the very end of the third round because he was in pretty bad shape.

To his credit, he shook off the cobwebs in between rounds and resumed controlling the fight to win a lopsided decision.

Then there was his infamous bout against fellow prospect Curtis Stevens in June 2007. In his sole HBO appearance, Dirrell used his superior foot speed to get in an occasional potshot against a plodding Stevens and gain the favor of the judges. It was one of the worst fights of the decade - perhaps the worst shown on HBO. Pundits and fans dubbed the name Andre Gazelle and wrote him off as more suspect than prospect.

So why does he have a good chance of going to Nottingham and upsetting the more experienced hometown fighter?

To put it simply, he learned from his awful 2007 performance and developed into a dangerous puncher. He found redemption last year by crushing Anthony Hanshaw - who went the distance with Roy Jones - on ShoBox inside of five rounds, taking him apart with powerful counters off the ropes. He split Mike Paschall's forehead wide open with a single punch in his following fight, before turning Victor Oganov's face into a bloody mask with a violent series of uppercuts last November.

Froch's vast defensive liabilities were exposed in his winning efforts against Jean Pascal and Jermain Taylor, and it says here that Dirrell punches harder than both. Most will agree Carl should have some trouble catching up with Andre's speed, at least in the early going. But perhaps more importantly, he'll be catching damaging blows from The Matrix while chasing him down. It's a mistake to assume the tough Englishman can easily walk through the firepower coming back at him and Dirrell's heavy hands tend to draw blood from his opponents. Moreover, you can expect the former Olympian to be far more aggressive than Taylor was if he shakes Froch up with one of his counters.

Another question mark is how well Froch will handle a talented southpaw. Although the left hook from the orthodox stance is Dirrell's most effective punch, if the switch hitter finds success as a lefty, he may stick with it and potshot his way to victory.

I see this as the most intriguing fight out of the first stage of the tournament. Both men have ability to hurt each other. Both men have enough flaws to make it fun. And both men have O's on their record they want to preserve.

Whatever happens, it should be the third consecutive drama in the saga of Carl Froch, and the first peer into the character and heart of young Andre Dirrell.

e-mail Michael Nelson

Photo Gallery: Fernando Guerrero vs Ossie Duran

2009-10-16T16:21:00.001-04:00

Fernando Guerrero (pictured left), one of the most exciting young fighters in the sport was back in action last Saturday night against Ossie Duran (right).

In front of his hometown fans at a cold Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury, Maryland, the 23 year old battled it out with the tough veteran from Ghana over 10 closely contested rounds.

Photographer Cheryl Nemazie was ringside to capture all the action.

Fernando Guerrero vs Ossie Duran

The two fighters pose for photographers at the Thursday pre-fight press conference.

Guerrero brought a 15-0 record into the bout, while Duran entered with a ledger of 23-7-2.

Fans peer down from their seats at the walkway leading from the dressing rooms to the grass field - normally the domain of the Class A Delmarva Shoebirds baseball club - as they wait for the fighters to make their entrance.

The hometown fighter acknowledges the near capacity crowd gathered at the 5,200 seat ballpark.

Below - Referee Gary Camponeschi has the fighters touch gloves before the start of hostilities.

Duran proved to be Guerrero's toughest test to date, extending the youngster the full 10 rounds in narrowly losing a majority decision.

The scores were 97-93, 96-94 and 95-95.

Guerrero proudly shows off his first piece of professional hardware - the NABO 160 pound belt.

On the under-card, Fernando's brother Alex (pictured on the right in the first photo) made his second pro-start a winning one with a unanimous decision over Rodricka Ray in a 4 rounder. The two fighters previously met back in June with Guerrero taking a majority decision.

Carl Froch Is Too Rough And Tough For Andre Dirrell

2009-10-16T08:01:00.008-04:00

By Lee Payton

Along with Jermain Taylor vs Arthur Abraham, the Froch vs Dirrelll bout will be shown live on PPV in the UK. Click here for more info.

Photo © Justin McKie

When a fighter steps up for the first time it's natural to be skeptical. Many of boxing's greatest were initially questioned by cynical fans and media because they were relatively untested heading into showdowns with more seasoned performers. That's the story surrounding Andre Dirrell as he prepares to take on Carl Froch this Saturday, in the first round of "The Super Six" World Boxing Classic, hosted by Showtime.

It's always tempting to think a man can't do something until he shows you he can, but in this case it's what I have seen that makes me think the young pug is in for a methodical and thorough beating.

The first thing Dirrell backers point out is his advantage in overall speed, which is supposed to enable him to box circles around his slower opponent. He is definitely a quick fighter, but being fast is not a skill. Skill is utilizing that speed in such a way that you "hit and don't get hit". While he is loaded with physical gifts I think he's a little light on professional know-how.

Much of what "The Matrix" does in the ring will never be found in a book of boxing basics. For instance, he has a tendency to pull straight back with his chin up in the air and he switches up stances just because he can. This man flips between orthodox and southpaw more than any fighter I have ever seen. It's his favourite defensive maneuver. The purist in me scowls. I'm not convinced there is much thought behind it. Seems more like athletic arrogance covering up some confusion or indecisiveness.

So far, so good I guess, but if you look hard enough you might be able to pick out a few instances where his chin looked a little less than sturdy. Watching him get touched up a bit, it's almost like he doesn't expect to get hit. This is the hurt business. A fighter has got to expect and accept contact, as well as pain.

Beyond the flaws I've mentioned, I think the style match-up is a difficult one. Most of Dirrell's opponents to date have been shorter guys who came to him with little power. We don't really know how he's going to handle a tall, rangy, awkward fighter who can swat.

I love it when these flashy youngsters meet up with hard asses who are sure to push them. It's how the tough questions are answered.

On Saturday night we're going to witness one man's introduction to something totally new. How will he react when he gets nailed and a crowd of 8000 are screaming for more? What's plan B, if necessary? Does he have the maturity to close the show if he has his man on the brink? And finally, can Dirrell handle not being the boss in there?

These are all questions Froch has answered. We know what he's about. If there is any give in the guy standing across from him, you can bet he'll find a way to exploit it in a violent way.

Give me Carl Froch to win by scrappy, but clear decision. I can't shake the feeling that things are going to become a little too rough for the kid.

If Andre Dirrell is going to win this fight, I think it's got to be done with a homerun swing. Given his lack of real kayo power and the veteran's durability, that appears to be a long shot, but almost anything can happen in this cruel sport.

Maybe he really does have the guts and grit to pull off the upset and just hasn't had to bite down hard yet. Either way, the truth will be revealed in the ring. Will the youngster be ground to dust by the immense pressure of the big stage, or will he thrive under the hot lights?

What do you think?

e-mail Lee Payton

The Brave & The Bold: The Super Six Shoot-out

2009-10-16T02:48:00.003-04:00

This preview by Jeff Pryor of Showtime's Super Six 168 pound tournament originally ran back in August shortly after the opening round match-ups were announced.

***Make sure to check back in with us tomorrow night for our live round by round blog coverage of Carl Froch vs Andre Dirrell & Jermain Taylor vs Arthur Abraham.***

Boldness by Showtime and Ken Hershman. Braveness on the part of the promoters.

And six brave and bold warriors ready to test their mettle against one another in a brutal round robin of blitzed out brawling to blast the Super Middleweight divisions rankings apart at the seam.

Kessler, Froch, Taylor, Abraham, Ward and Dirrell. Simply by signing on, they have emblazoned their names on the placard that reads "real fighter".

Confident and ready, these six gunslingers, stroll into their matches, knowing it will be tough. Knowing they will likely not make it out unscathed. But believing in themselves enough that should they do their best, it will be worth it.

Wanting to be the best. Willing to face the best.

Hailing from destinations scattered throughout Europe and America, these warriors will put themselves through hell in solitary preparation for the day when each of them stand across from one another, paths finally intersecting, with the determination to boldly lay claim to the crown of the division.

Who will stand above the rest and demand to be recognized?

Mikkel Kessler, of whom it is generally held, is the best of the division, based largely upon the work he did before his competitive outing with Calzaghe, and is also figured to be the favorite heading into the competition. His thorough handling of Librado Andrade looks all the more impressive since Andrade gave Lucian Bute hell and came as close to knocking a man out that you can... without it being awarded to you. Kessler's stand up, disciplined style and all around package should make him a tough match for everyone. He isn't the biggest puncher in the competition, or the fastest, not the most athletic, or dynamic, but all in all he's the most proven; the man to beat heading into the long affair.

Photo © Justin McKie

Carl Froch is the blue collar, gut it out, dark horse. He may be the slowest of the field, but he's also the only do or die warrior of the bunch. Like Kessler's Andrade win, Froch's Pascal victory looks all the more impressive since Pascal has moved up to Light Heavyweight and outclassed Adriane Diaconu. Against Jermain Taylor, Froch showed that he can overcome a deficit in speed and athleticism by sheer will and determination. With above average power and a fiery warrior spirit that isn't easily doused, getting past him will take either an incredibly disciplined and determined performance or a concussive explosion that suddenly takes him out in one fell swoop. Whatever happens, when you step in with Froch, it's gut check time.

Andre Dirrell may be the most dynamic fighter out of the group. He has scintillating speed and a missile powered offense, plus the general athleticism to match anyone in the sport. His career so far has been a mixed bag, and it seems largely due to the psychology of the fighter. Tentativeness, a lack of urgency and a safety first mentality marred some of his earlier bouts. Recently he has opened up his attack more and displayed a dazzlingly violent penchant for isolated pockets of destruction. His participation is one of the more ambiguous elements in the tournament. You get the sense he has more raw talent then anyone else, but is the least consistent. His opening bout with Froch may be make or break in that Carl is the kind of fighter who will not go quietly, and if he can take Dirrel's punch he may grind down the less experienced fighter over the long haul, and cause an irreversible reversion in mentality. Throughout the tournament Dirrell will need to prove he can dig in and gut out some moments.

Photo © Marty Rosengarten / Ringsidephotos.com

Andre Ward is the other largely unproven talent in the pool. Like Kessler he is solid in virtually every area, but wholly untested against the kind of opposition he will face in the tournament. It would appear he has the skill to compete in this field, but it's yet to be proven he has that special something needed to rise to the very top. I recall Dirrel's impressive performance against Anthony Hanshaw, and wonder how Ward would have done against Hanshaw that night; I think he would have had a much harder time. Still, Ward has his opportunity, and he's shown a desire to succeed and prove himself. That sort of fire can spur a fighter to keep going when others would have quit. His mental toughness may determine outcomes.

Photo © Justin McKie

Then we have the most accomplished of the two former Middleweight champion's, Jermain Taylor, who has found it a difficult go against determined punchers who he can drop, but not stop. His psyche may be the most fragile of all the fighters. He takes losses hard, and he's coming off what must be the most disappointing of his career, where Froch knocked him out in the waning seconds of a fight he would have won on the cards. Taylor's athleticism is only bettered by Dirrell here, and his combination of hand speed and power will be a handful for everyone at the beginning of his fights. His bursting flurries start to diminish midway through though and he may find it hard to match the consistency of some of the other fighters. Still he sat Froch down, a feat no one else has managed, and that would suggest his power is enough to derail anyone here under the right circumstances. His chronic fatigue syndrome will sour most on his prospects in the tournament, but there are a couple matchup's he will find advantageous and he's been known to consistently get the nod in close affairs.

And finally, another fighter who is largely a question mark, particularly at this weight. "King" Arthur Abraham, gives up his crown to try and conquer another kingdom. The key questions will be whether his power makes the move with him, and if his cover-up-fight-thirty-seconds-a-round style, as has been contended, was a product of his struggles in continuing to make the 160lb weight limit or if, as his earlier fights would seem to point to, that's just the way he fights. His four year run as a title holder lacked top flight competition for much of it. More than any fighter here... more than most in the sport, he has shown an extraordinary level of grit and heart, as exemplified in his first bout with Edison Miranda, in which his jaw was horrifically broken and lolling open for much of the bout. One wonders what you must do to stop this man from fighting. If Abraham's power carries up, his winky-esque power slugging remix of a style will provide an interesting puzzle for everyone he meets.

Those six are the Brave and the Bold. Each of them holds their own advantage, and it will be in the match ups that we see how they all slide and click together to create interesting variations on a theme, while we watch six separate story arcs mature before us.

The first trio of matches present intrigue and a few tough draws.

Kessler vs. Ward would seem to be the most conventional fight. Both guys will come to play, and it may just be a case where the older boy knows the game better. With over twice the experience, Kessler will come in frosty and calm. While Ward may be tight heading into his first title fight. If he can keep it close, even a loss may be a victory, in that Ward may need to get this out of the way just to affirm that he belongs in the tournament and in the ring with a guy like Kessler. A Kessler loss here would set the tournament on it's ear.

Froch vs. Dirrell may cause the most sparks to fly. Froch will push Dirrell, and Dirrell will sting Froch. It's a matchup of diametrically opposed fighters. It may come down to whether Froch can survive the short term and whether Dirrell can survive the long term. This may look like Pavlik-Taylor I... or Froch-Taylor for that matter. Could be a real bad night for either guy. And maybe an explosive tournament debut for whoever makes it happen for themselves.

Taylor vs. Abraham pits the two middleweight transplants against one another. This is probably the best matchup for Taylor in the whole shebang. Abraham doesn't push the pace and he will likely allow the always keyed up and tight Taylor to conserve vital energy over the course of the bout. Each man likes to fight in explosive spurts. While Abraham would seem to have the edge in power, Taylor should have a distinct hand speed edge. Since Taylor has cracked twice before though, even a conservative Abraham may have the necessary firepower to bomb out Taylor. It will be up to Jermain to walk the tight rope and balance his stamina.

To look ahead to further matches seems criminal without knowing the results from these fine openers. Things may look radically different for the outcome of the tournament following round one.

The genius in this tournament is that due to it's round robin styling, there is a philosophical return to a different era in boxing; a different perception of a loss. To a time when being a worthy fighter didn't mean an untarnished record, it meant you fought your ass off against the best out there, come what may. As long as you won more than you lost, you probably did alright for yourself.

This tournament allows us to cut the boys some slack. A just reward for consistently facing the toughest competition.

The other bright spot here is that it would be impossible to find a dull matchup with any of these two names sandwiched together. The matchup with the most potential for dead zones would be Abraham-Dirrell... and even that is pretty damn intriguing. This tournament will be hard pressed to disappoint. The pessimistic fan, might say that boxing will find a way, but the sheer number of top flight fights all but precludes disappointment on a mass scale.

Of the six fighters, there will be one left standing at the end, but there will certainly be more than one fighter who comes out of this more highly regarded than upon their entrance.

It's a high wire act in which any meltdown could mean a string of high profile losses and the end of a career. Balanced against that, the prospect of victory after victory, big fights and elevated profile is enough to lure in the likes of current and former world champions, pound for pound entrants, and Olympians.

Make no mistake, the spoils are great.

Imagine if one fighter emerges undefeated over the course of the tournament... For instance, suppose Kessler beats Ward, Froch, Taylor and Dirrell over the course of the series (perhaps one of them twice), couple that with his already notched wins over Andrade, Beyer and Mundine, and then compare that to a list of significant victories from consensus Super Middleweight all-time king, Joe Calzaghe's career. Kessler might slide past Calzaghe on the esteem scale with that kind of run.

The same certainly goes for any man that runs the table, maybe even for a Super Six fighter who drops a fight. With even two solid wins, lets say Froch scores victories over Kessler and Dirrell, match those with his earlier Taylor and Pascal wins and compare them with Joe's best; Kessler, Lacy, Eubank. That's comparable or better.

The point is, in a young division who's patriarch is a long reigning champ who added relatively few choice pelts to his wall, it only takes a string of three or so stirring performances to stamp your name indelibly on the division, maybe even to usurp the current standard barer. While Calzaghe's longevity was impressive, few would argue the Welshman even had as many significant fights over the course of his 10 year run as champion, as these men will have over the course of the next two years. It is because of this, that they are not just fighting for the current division crown, but to enter the discussion of who has been the most remarkable Super Middleweight of all-time.

In an endeavor so vast and far reaching into the future, there is bound to be uncertainty; what if a string of losses sends Taylor into retirement before the tournaments end, or what if injuries preclude a fighter from continuing on to the next fight? Will a definitive division leader emerge? Will a string of tough fights benefit the fighters enough to justify the wear and tear they are bound to endure? Will the tournament be successful and spur the sport on to a renewed interest in these formatted war fields?

If there is a certainty it is that some will fall, some will prevail and spectators will be rewarded for baring witness.

Fortune favors the bold.

e-mail Jeff Pryor

British Scene: Jason Booth vs Michael Hunter Preview

2009-10-15T12:06:00.000-04:00

Matt Chudley previews tomorrow night's British super-bantamweight title showdown between Jason Booth and Michael Hunter.

Tomorrow night at the Seaburn Centre in Sunderland, Jason Booth makes the 2nd defense of his British super-bantamweight title, and faces his first true test at the weight in the form of former world title challenger Michael Hunter.

With Sunderland's favourite son Tony Jeffries anchoring the card there are also a number of Britain’s finest prospects on show including the latest addition to the Frank Maloney stable, heavyweight Olympic Bronze medalist David Price in only his second pro fight.

Friday's action will also mark Frank Maloney return to the business after the tragic death of young charge Darren Sutherland and his own heart issues, with the amiable Londoner back in the fold sooner than his doctors would like but giving assurances that he will sit back in the stands and try to become less involved in the fights themselves.

Having shown much promise early in his career, but failing to capture a European title on three previous occasions, Booth has spent much of his career bouncing around the shallow lower weights in the UK. Now at age 31, it looks like he may have just found his niche in the super-bantamweight division. Having moved up in weight back in April for a shot at the vacant British title against Mark Moran on only 10 days notice, the Nottingham slickster put forth arguably the best performance of his career in outclassing the previously undefeated Moran.

While Booth has looked impressive at the weight thus far, it remains to be seen if that is more down to the opponents in the untested Moran and the game but limited Rocky Dean. Against Hunter, he’ll be giving up a significant height and reach advantage and will be looking to once again rely on his quick hands and sharp reflexes to better the naturally bigger man.

Should Booth come through this tough assignment, a big local Derby with friend Rendall Munroe, who defends his European title in November could lie ahead or the possibility of a rubber match with longtime rival Ian Napa.

A former holder of the British, Commonwealth and European Super-Bantamweight titles, Michael Hunter returns to the limelight for the first time since being stopped by Steve Molitor back in November of 2006. Fighting in his hometown of Hartlepool, Hunter was favoured by many going into the fight, but was conclusively stopped by Molitor after 5 one sided rounds. He has since taken three tune-up fights but has yet to fight in 2009.

Named the mandatory challenger for Booth's Lonsdale belt by the board of control, Hunter will be looking to reassert his dominance on the domestic scene. Well supported and not travelling too far from home, he should be able to count on a larger contingent of supporters despite not being the house fighter and can probably count on the support of the many Tony Jeffries fans who will be filling out the arena. Tall for the weight at over 5'7, Hunter will be looking use his size advantages and renowned work rate to press Booth and will likely look to attack the body early to slow the skilled title holder down.

On The Undercard...

The main attraction for the locals and already one of the bigger ticket sellers in the UK, Tony Jeffries will be looking to make it a perfect 4-0 to start his career when he takes on 10-17 Belarussian light-heavyweight champion Artem Solomko.

Having left Hayemaker Promotions after the collapse of Setanta, Olympic Bronze Medalist David Price will be making his debut under the FTM banner against 0-1 German Liridon Memishi. The 6’8 scouser will be eager to get back in the ring having been on the sidelines since March, and will be looking to come through unscathed as he’s scheduled to fight again in Bolton on the 23rd.

Another casualty of the Setanta fiasco, George Groves will be looking to prove that he is still one of the hottest prospects in the UK against 4-4 Lithuanian Tadas Jonkus. Also vying for plaudits, is Groves's amateur nemesis Travis Dickinson who faces debuting Steffan Hughes a division up at light heavy.

e-mail Matt Chudley

One More Round With Mark Lyons: Lopez/Mtagwa, Vasquez & The Super Six

2009-10-14T02:14:00.001-04:00

Mark Lyons is back with his weekly take on the previous weekend's boxing action, as well as a look ahead to what's coming up.

Photo © Marty Rosengarten / Ringsidephotos.com

We had an old school type of war in New York plus the return of a warrior. Next on tap is the long awaited opening of the Super Six, to that all I can say is….Lets get ready to rumble.

My take on this past weekend's action...

While many were slamming Roger Mtagwa (pictured) as a challenger for the young Puerto Rican star in the making, Juan Manual Lopez, I was quietly looking forward to the fight. It reminded me of an 80’s network match-up when champions were more active and brutish warriors that toiled on small cards were given a chance. There is always the potential for a Rocky Balboa moment and we got one last weekend. Roger was willing to walk through a Sherman tank to get his licks in and prove once again the record never measures the man.

It was a tremendous fight that was packed with drama. If you weren’t on the edge of your seat in the final two rounds, you should probably stick to watching sitcoms. Mtagwa fell just short and though I found two of the cards to be a bit wide, I agreed with the decision.

I also wouldn’t jump the gun on damning Lopez to being overrated as this was a bull strong challenger who refused to go away. Juanma needs to go back to setting up shots with his jab and lets all hope Mtagwa gets another payday out of this.

Anybody get the impression that Israel Vazquez would go to war with a cheerleader? He knows no other way.

While it was a bit concerning that he struggled so mightily with a journeyman. There was rust involved and a style change at this point probably got him thinking too much in there. But when the fight is tight and the blood is flowing, the man needs no council on how to close a show. I’ll reserve requests for retirement until I see him again. But it was strange to have such an entertaining battle concern you as much as it entertained you.

Looking Ahead...

Arthur Abraham is going to brutalize Jermain Taylor, no maybes about it. Nothing in the style match up favors the gutsy American.

You have to applaud Taylor for his ambitious schedule, but he is up against it bad here. Abraham will block his shots and counter with thunder, hurting Taylor early and often. Only Taylor’s courage will get this fight to the midway point and possibly beyond. But it will take several trips to the canvas to last that long.

I’m picking Carl Froch over Andre Dirrell in the other fight, but with a bit more reservations.

Dirrell has obvious athletic gifts, but they come with some evident flaws and a gut feeling that he will fold under pressure. Now, he can certainly laugh at that gut feeling and may turn out to be more than advertised, but I really think this is a rough spot for a coming out party. He may have the ability to stink it out, but I’m hard pressed to see him take a decision in Carl’s hometown by running.

My take is Froch adjusts to the speed after a few rounds and begins to break Dre down before stopping him late.

A fight I’ve been thinking about...

Frank Bruno vs Tommy Morrison

Bombs away! Bruno was a bit sturdier, but Tommy was faster and probably had an edge in heart. Impossible to predict this with any conviction. They would both almost assuredly see the canvas and it’s highly unlikely to see the final bell. In a 51/49 moment, I’ll take Morrison to survive a couple early knockdowns and flatten the big Brit in the fourth.

e-mail Mark Lyons

Can Jermain Taylor Upset Arthur Abraham?

2009-10-13T11:53:00.002-04:00

By Lee Payton

Photos © Justin McKie

This is a preview I wrote when the first round matches were announced...

The "Super Six" World Boxing Classic is set. Showtime has picked 6 of the top 168lb fighters in the world to duke it out in a round-robin format that will eventually produce a top dog in the division - although the eventual winner might have to face Lucien Bute when it's all said and done to validate their claim. In the first round former World Middleweight Champion, Jermain Taylor, will be taking on undefeated Arthur Abraham, in Germany.

Most see this as another disastrous KO loss for the Arkansas native, and it very well could end up that way, but because of the styles involved, I think the fight deserves more than a 5 second analysis.

A lot of fans tend to underrate Jermain Taylor. Maybe it's because he was an HBO darling for so long. Perhaps they didn't like the decisions he got against Bernard Hopkins and Winky Wright. Or maybe they just have no faith in him to really win it.

That's all fair, but as we find out so very often in this sport, every fight is special, so I think it's a mistake to believe that Abraham is just going to flatten him because Carl Froch (pictured taking a right hand from Taylor) and Kelly Pavlik have done so in the past.

One thing that stood out to me when I took my first look at this fight is the fact that the conventional opponents Taylor has had the most trouble with were all his height. Froch, Pavlik and Hopkins are all 6' or a little better. Abraham is listed at 5'10. Usually I'm hesitant to put too much stock into a couple of inches, but in this case I think they can be significant factors in the match-up.

Those other guys were able to reach Taylor with shots when he thought he was out of range. With Abraham, he actually will be safe at that distance because of the extra inches in height and reach. That half a step back he's been criticized for will actually be an asset here, in my view.

Having watched all of his televised fights, I can tell you that a shorter, orthodox fighter who isn't likely to apply consistent pressure is right up Taylor's alley. He won't have to think as much, which would help him conserve some of the nervous energy he tends to burn. It is my opinion that he will be more comfortable in there with this opponent than against any of the other 4.

Another advantage Taylor has going into this one is punch output. While Arthur's defense has proven to be quite reliable, the high guard means his hands are busy. If Taylor has the discipline to use his stick all night (which is easier to do against a shorter, steady target than shifty guys like Hops and Froch), he should be able to keep Abraham's gloves pasted to his face for the majority of the fight. I think it's a pretty sure thing that Jermain will get off first and throw more punches against this guy. That's not to be overlooked.

Neither are his athletic gifts. This will be a rare occasion for Arthur in that he is going up against someone who can match or possibly exceed him in some important physical categories.

Of course, fighting in Germany, where Abraham is dearly loved, isn't going to make pulling off the upset any easier. Those cannon balls in Art's gloves could also suddenly erase any good work that Jermain has done. However, I think the equation is slightly more difficult than "Abraham's heavy hands + Taylor's chin and stamina = Arthur by KO", and I believe we'll see that when they step into the ring.

Given his history it would be kind of amazing to see Jermain Taylor in the finals of this awesome tournament, but don't count him out just yet. He's got the tools to make things very interesting. Any way you look at it, he's the most proven fighter out of the bunch, which makes me wonder why so many are picking him to fall apart, and not Ward or Dirrell, who have never come close to competing on this level.

His next fight will either temporarily silence Taylor's critics, or it'll just be another big fight "he could have won". We'll find out which, October 17.

e-mail Lee Payton

Photo Gallery: John Murray vs Jonathan Thaxton

2009-10-13T05:40:00.005-04:00

Last weekend in Manchester, rising young star John Murray took on veteran Jonathan Thaxton for the vacant British lightweight title.

Photographer Justin McKie was ringside at the Altrincham Leisure Center to capture all the action from the much anticipated lightweight contest.

Jonathan Thaxton vs John Murray

Trainer Dominic Ingles puts the finishing touches on tough Norwich southpaw Jonathan Thaxton's hand wraps.

After 44 pro fights in a career spanning 17 years, the former British and European champion promised that win or lose, this would be it.

Manchester's John Murray entered the vacant British title contest looking to re-claim the belt he lost on the scales last time out.

Below - The undefeated 24 year old pressure fighter warms up on the pads with trainer Joe Gallagher.

With both Thaxton and Murray always willing to mix it up, the packed Leisure Center was buzzing in anticipaton as the two lightweights prepared to make their way towards the ring.

Thaxton did most of the punching in the opening frame as Murray seemed content to patiently edge forward behind his high guard.

The 35 year old southpaw circled away from his younger foe, while picking his spots to attack.

Murray upped his intensity in the second round, stinging Thaxton with a hard right early in the frame. The younger man pressed his advantage, aggressively flurrying with both hands.

Thaxton hung tough, but it was quickly becoming apparent that Murray was too sharp.

Sensing his edge, Murray kept coming hard, absorbing Thaxton's best counters without blinking, while dishing out most of the punishment.

Murray follows through on a hard right hand.

By the third round, the undefeated rising star had his full offensive arsenal - jabs, hooks, right hands - all working effectively.

Murray lands a crunching right hand. The shot prompted referee Howard Foster to jump in after Thaxton staggered backwards towards the ropes.

Many in attendance felt the stoppage - 2:30 of round 4 - may have been too soon, but with the bout becoming increasingly one sided, it was hard to find too much fault with the referee's decision.

John Murray - now 28-0 and once again British lightweight champion.

British Scene Weekend Recap: Cleverly Stops Fry

2009-10-12T04:19:00.000-04:00

Matt Chudley recaps the British light-heavyweight title match-up between Nathan Cleverly and Courtney Fry.

Nathan Cleverly booked a December 5th European Title showdown with Antonio Brancalion with an impressive stoppage win over Courtney Fry at the York Hall on Friday. Facing his most technically sound opponent to date, Cleverly showed a maturity beyond his years in patiently picking the cagey boxer from Liverpool apart, before forcing a stoppage with a barrage of right hands in the 8th.

The 22 year old from Wales came out looking to attack the body in the first, while his rangy and awkward foe looked to load up with uppercuts. Fry came close on a few occasions, but it was Cleverly’s body shots and work rate that were the pick of the early action.

With long arms and a sturdy jab, Fry looked to hold in close while trying to keep the contest within his comfort zone with long range exchanges, but after Clevelry landed a lead right hand in the 3rd, the challenger was forced to hold on for survival purposes.

Having survived the 3rd round scare, Fry settled back into his rhythm, and it was Cleverly who next found himself in trouble. Dropping his hands in a momentary lapse of concentration, the Welshman was caught early in the 5th by a long looping left hook, and a follow up right hand. Both landed flush, and had Fry been a more concussive puncher, an upset might have been on the cards. Instead Cleverly gave Fry a smile and a nod and went back to work, catching Fry with an impressive uppercut later in the round.

After exchanging solid left hooks in the 6th, it appeared to be Cleverly who was slowing down, and in the 7th the momentum seemed poised to swing towards the 34 year old challenger. In the 8th though, Cleverly reasserted himself, staggering Fry with a big right hand, before laying into the former Olympian with an onslaught of rights. Cleverly quickly pushed off, stepping back to avoid smothering his work and giving the challenger no opportunity to recover, leaving Fry helpless to avoid further punishment along the ropes.

At this point, Victor Loughlin stepped in to end the bout, only to find himself on the canvas as the unsteady Fry collapsed on the man in charge. The time was 2:52 of round 8.

Cleverly still seems to be improving at an impressive rate but might be better off joining forces with an experienced trainer once he completes University next summer and leave the makeshift team of father Vince and Sports Network matchmaker turned trainer Dean Powell.

Though he may be advanced in age, Fry did show enough to suggest that he could capture a Lonsdale belt once Cleverly has moved on.

On the undercard...

2008 Beijing Olympian Billy Joe Saunders was given the toughest test of his fledgling pro career by tough Latvian Alex Spitko. Saunders was extended the distance for the first time in a scrapy four rounder with the Mansfield based journeyman showing real grit and pushing Saunders hard.

Returning from a four month ban, Derek Chisora completed the formalities with a 3rd round stoppage of 12-6 Georgian no-hoper Zurab Noniashvili. After the first round, the Georgian heavy seemed disinterested and almost baying for the canvas. Chisora may have gained little from the fight but could soon find himself competing against Audley Harrison for the British title vacated by Danny Williams.

e-mail Matt Chudley

Lopez Barely Holds Off Mtagwa in Dramatic Brawl

2009-10-11T06:05:00.003-04:00

By Andrew Fruman

Douglas over Tyson, Honeyghan over Curry, Turpin over Robinson, Braddock over Baer…

One more round – heck maybe just a dozen more seconds – separated Rogers Mtagwa, the Tanzanian born Philly fighter from a stirring come from behind upset that would have ranked right up there with some of the biggest shockers the sport has ever seen.

With 12 losses to his name, and a wide open come forward style that seemed perfect fodder for the destructive fists of the belt holder (the WBO 122 pound strap if you care about such things), Mtagwa was given a spot in Saturday night’s Latin Fury 12 main event for the sole purpose of getting hammered by Top Rank’s rising young star. Instead, the tough as nails journeyman brawler produced a stirring effort in pushing the fancied house fighter to the brink.

While Lopez banked the early rounds, landing a number of heavy right hooks and straight lefts, Mtagawa never stopped coming. He relentlessly waded through the leather, and kept banging away with his own artillery, and slowly but surely the flow of the fight began to change - and by the mid-rounds, the expected blow out had turned into a give and take battle of attrition highlighted by a number of fierce exchanges.

By the 11th round of the fast paced bout, both men had absorbed a great deal of punishment and were looking tired, but it was the wide swinging Mtagwa that seemed to have more left and looked to be the more willing and confident fighter. However, it was not until the closing seconds of the round that he found a real break through.

It came in the form of a big left hook that badly shook Lopez, who appeared dazed as he headed back to his corner. Had the punch landed a little earlier, Lopez might very well have been finished.

As it was, even with the precious 60 second break, Lopez did not appear fully recovered when he came out for the final frame. It was a heart stopping 3 minutes, with Mtagwa desperately going for the finish, as Lopez in full on survival mode, staggered all over the ring.

As the final moments ticked down, the reeling title holder looked up at the Wumu Theater time clock to see how much time was left. It was heady, but desperate stuff from Lopez, who somehow managed to still be on his feet when the bell sounded.

Lopez had survived – winning on the cards by scores of 116-111, 115-111 and 114-113.

While he may have come up just short, it was a championship effort from Mtagwa that will not soon be forgotten. Bob Arum made it clear he wouldn’t be getting another crack at Lopez, but if there’s any justice, he'll be in there with another name opponent, and hopefully receive a decent payday to go with it.

After 13 hard working years as a pro, giving it everything he has each time out, it's the least he deserves.

e-mail Andrew Fruman

Interview With Odlanier Solis' trainers Pedro Diaz & Russ Anber

2009-10-09T14:13:00.005-04:00

Tomorrow night at New York's Madison Square Garden, 2004 Olympic Heavyweight Gold Medalist Oldanier Solis takes on one time contender Monte "Two Gunz" Barrett.

Originally scheduled to face the sharp jabbing Kevin Johnson, and then substitute Fres Oquendo when Johnson pulled out after landing a title shot against Vitali Klitschko - Solis and his team are just relieved to have a capable opponent on the Latin Fury 12 show.

The Boxing Bulletin's Ivan Montiel caught up with the former amateur star's trainers Pedro Diaz (pictured below in the gym with Solis) and Russ Anber (pictured right with Solis).

First of all, thanks Russ and Pedro for checking in with The Boxing Bulletin. Tell me what happened with Johnson and then Oquendo pulling out? I heard now its Monte Barrett, is that correct?

Russ: I really don’t know and I don’t want to speculate. All I know is they both pulled out of the fight and therefore Solis is fighting Monte Barrett instead.

How has training been going so far?

Russ: Solis is looking very good. He’s had a great preparation, a great camp, and he’s in good shape and he’s only going to get better. I think this is just the beginning, it’s been a short camp about one month yet it’s been great. I think he’s going to be the best that we’ve seen, one of the premium fighters in the heavyweight division.

Is Solis bothered at all by having to change opponents at last minute?

Pedro: Honestly I don’t think so although he’s had to make quite a few changes here and there but with his experience background in the Olympics I believe he has what it takes to adjust to any opponent.

Has Solis trimmed down in weight?

Russ: I used to think about his weight especially when he was at 265 yet when I spent time with him in camp I realized he just has one of those body types that’s just round - but he’s not obese. Solis is actually fit and fast he runs a lot - but we do want to bring his weight down because we feel he doesn’t need to carry that excess weight for guys like the Klitschko’s. But I will tell you he’s certainly not what I would call a fat heavyweight.

Pedro: Honestly I don’t worry about his weight. As long as Solis is prepared technically and competitive wise that’s all that matters to me at this point in time. As far as his weight goes Solis has been working hard on trimming down. He’s looking good.

Does Solis have any future opponents in mind saying he get’s passed Barrett?

Pedro: Well we are only concentrating on Monte Barrett for now. Of course after this fight we are willing to fight anybody.

What is your fight plan to trying to beat Barrett?

Pedro: Monte Barrett is a great boxer, and he’s fought some good fights. We never under-estimate any opponent. However Solis is very prepared therefore we expect him to do very well.

Muchas gracias Russ and Pedro I wish you and Solis all the best on Saturday!

Pedro: No problem Ivan but before I go I want to say one last thing. It’s been a long time since the heavyweight division has had much excitement although the Klitschko brothers are great. I believe soon enough Solis will become a proud heavyweight champion for the Latino community. We want Solis to be a champion not only for Cuba but also to represent the U.S and the entire Latino community!

Russ: Anytime LatinoPorVida! Hasta llego (Until Next Time) Ivan!

e-mail Ivan Montiel

British Scene: Nathan Cleverly vs Courtney Fry Preview

2009-10-07T22:46:00.001-04:00

Matt Chudley previews Friday's Sky sports show featuring Nathan Cleverly against Courtney Fry.

Photo © Justin McKie

This Friday night at the York Hall in Bethnal Green, Nathan Cleverly (pictured right against Danny McIntosh) defends both his British and Commonwealth light-heavyweight titles against 2000 Sydney Olympian, Courtney Fry. Though tipped as heavy underdog, Fry will be the most skilled opponent Cleverly has faced to date, and should provide a good gauge to evaluate the development of one of Britain’s brightest prospects.

This will be the first defense of the Lonsdale belt for Cleverly, having claimed the British title back in July with an exciting one sided victory over previously unbeaten Danny McIntosh. Along with having 2 belts on the line, a European title shot is also at stake for the fast rising star, as he’s been promised a chance to compete for the vacant European crown on the under-card of Amir Khan’s WBA title defense in Newcastle later this year.

Now 17-0, the young Welshman enters the bout ranked by all four major sanctioning bodies, and is ranked in the top 10 by the IBF and WBO. Tall at almost 6’4, with fast hands and cultured boxing skills, Cleverly’s recent performances have offered little opportunity for criticism. It must be said though, that having faced a lack of quality opponents on the domestic scene, his chin and big fight temperament have yet to be tested.

With five of his thirteen wins coming inside the scheduled distance against even more modest opposition, the 13-2 Courtney Fry likely doesn’t have the power to ask questions of Cleverly's chin. However, the highly decorated amateur, with many more years in the sport, may possess the skills to frustrate the young fighter and will likely present him with problems he hasn't encountered before.

Traditionally the biggest weapon to offset the speed of a quick opponent has been the jab and the 34 year old scouser has an educated and effective one which helped him to gain a berth as one of only two British competitors in the 2000 Olympics as well as a silver medal at the European Championships and Gold in the Commonwealth games.

A late start to the pros combined with injuries and promotional issues have seen Fry unable to recapture the same form in the paid ranks and a 2005 loss to upset specialist Ovil McKenzie almost saw him quit the sport for good. Fry did rekindle his career with a solid win over unbeaten Nigerian prospect Tony Salam and looked ready to make a run at the British title under Frank Maloney but then opted to enter the light heavyweight edition of Prizefighter.

Though the Prizefighter competition style is not all that dissimilar to the amateur game, Fry had become a notorious slow starter in the pros and was outworked in the semis by Tony Oakey and once again found himself at a loose end. Backed into the same corner as Olympic team-mate Audley Harrison was last week, Fry will need a special performance Friday night to give his career a much needed boost.

On the undercard...

Derek Chisora will be returning to the ring after serving a four month ban for biting the ear of journeyman Paul Butlin back in May. Tyson Fury's main verbal sparring partner, the 10-0 Chisora could find himself in the picture to face Audley Harrison for the vacant British title with an impressive win over 12-6-1 Georgian Zurab Noniashvili.

2008 Olympian Billy Joe Saunders will also be back out, going against 6-15 Latvian trial horse Alex Spitko. View by many as the best pro prospect of the UK Olympians, the 20 year from Hertfordshire will be looking to make it four stoppage wins from four in his first appearance at the storied York Hall.

Also appearing will be the three Walsh brothers Michael, Ryan and Liam. Former ABA champ Michael and younger twins Ryan and Liam bring a large following from East Anglia and will be looking to add to the unbeaten records against limited opposition.

e-mail Matt Chudley