British Scene: Jason Booth vs Michael Hunter Preview

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.

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One More Round With Mark Lyons: Lopez/Mtagwa, Vasquez & The Super Six

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.

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Can Jermain Taylor Upset Arthur Abraham?

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.

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Photo Gallery: John Murray vs Jonathan Thaxton

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

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

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British Scene Weekend Recap: Cleverly Stops Fry

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.

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Lopez Barely Holds Off Mtagwa in Dramatic Brawl

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.

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Interview With Odlanier Solis' trainers Pedro Diaz & Russ Anber

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
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British Scene: Nathan Cleverly vs Courtney Fry Preview

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 Read more!

British Scene Weekend Recap: Murray Stops Thaxton

Dave Oakes recaps Saturday's British lightweight title fight between John Murray and Jonathan Thaxton.

Photos © Justin McKie

In a battle of former British champions, John Murray came out on top on Saturday night, stopping Jon Thaxton in the fourth round to reclaim the British lightweight title.

Murray lost the title on the scales last time out and was determined to put things right this time around. Thaxton was also fired up, knowing that victory would secure him permanent possession of the Lonsdale belt, whilst defeat would surely bring an end to his long career.

It was Thaxton who started the better, pot shotting and moving before Murray had a chance to counter. Murray seemed to be taking his time whilst keeping his hands held high and his chin tucked down. His defence has been viewed as one of his weaknesses but his concentration levels were high right from the first bell against Thaxton, who’s a noted puncher early on in fights.

Murray found his rhythm in the second round, he landed an overhand right early in the round that stiffened Thaxton’s legs. Murray normally goes all out for the knockout against a hurt opponent but he seemed intent on not taking any risks in this fight and stuck to boxing behind a high guard and using his speed to counter Thaxton.

Murray dominated the round, landing the overhand right repeatedly and using his speed advantage to full effect. He caught Thaxton with a hard left hook on the bell that seemed to hurt Thaxton again.

Thaxton tried to re-establish control in the third but was being beaten to the punch and was feeling every blow that Murray landed. It was yet another overhand right that had Thaxton hurt midway through the round, this time Murray followed it up with a hard left uppercut and a left hook to the body.

It was increasingly looking like Thaxton was having one fight too many and his usual sturdy punch resistance was starting to let him down. He was hurt yet again towards the end of the round when Murray detonated another heavy left hook onto Thaxton’s chin.

The end came in the fourth when a Murray right hand had Thaxton staggering backwards towards the ropes, the referee jumped in after Murray followed up with a couple of hooks but I felt that the stoppage was a touch premature.

Thaxton wasn’t that badly hurt, and whilst he was more than likely going to get stopped in the next couple of rounds, I felt he deserved a chance to turn things around. He’s been a pro for over fifteen years and has been in the mix at championship level for most of his career, I feel a fighter like that should be given a bit more of a chance to prove he’s okay to continue. That said, I can’t criticise the referee for erring on the side of caution, I’d rather see a fight being stopped a touch early than it being stopped too late.

Murray takes his unbeaten record to 28 fights (16 KO’s) and is keen on fights against Anthony Mezaache and Michael Katsidis. A fight against Katsidis has the makings of a ‘fight of the year’ type fight but I’m unsure as to how easy that fight would be to make.

The defeat must surely mean the end of the road for Thaxton. He’s had many highs and lows in an eventful career that has seen him claim both British and European titles. He always gave his best and can leave boxing with his head held high.

e-mail Dave Oakes Read more!

British Scene Weekend Recap: Harrison wins Prizefighter Heavyweight III

Matt Chudley recaps this past Friday night's Prizefighter Heavyweights III show.

By clinically dispatching the Prizefighter field, once prized commodity Audley Harrison not only gained £32,000, but appears to have put himself in line for yet another opportunity to make a dent on the heavyweight division.

The victory could not have come at a better time for Harrison, as it appeared the Sydney Gold Medalist was out of chances after losing to Martin Rogan and being let go by Frank Warren last December.

Let’s get right to the action…

Round 1 – Scott Gammer vs Coleman Barrett

The first bout of the night saw former British champion Scott Gammer taking on inexperienced and undersized Irishman Coleman Barrett. A former bronze medalist in the junior world amatuer championships almost a decade ago, Barrett displayed his speed and quick hands early, peppering the bigger man and quickly moving in and out of the pocket.

Looking for the big shots, Gammer was outworked early as Barrett kept moving while Gammer plodded. Setting his feet and looking to land heavier shots, Gammer found more success in the 2nd with accurate left hooks, using his size and strength to pressure the younger man.

The underdog Coleman was back on his toes in the third and despite a late push from Gammer in the closing seconds, did enough to get the nod on the judges scorecards with a 29-28 verdict on all three cards.

Round 1- Danny Williams vs Carl Baker

The second bout pitted former world title challenger and one of the most popular fighters in the UK, Danny Williams against unheralded southpaw Carl Baker.

Showing little regard for the early threat of the 287lber, Williams seemed happy to engage the heavy handed brawler. That proved a mistake, as a powerful right hand from Baker in the opening exchange caught Williams high on the side of the head and sent him down to the canvas. Williams rose on unsteady legs to beat the count but was down again soon after by a partially blocked right hand and absorbed further punishment while covering up on the ropes.

Still not fully recovered Williams was back on the canvas early in the second from what appeared to be another right cross but fortunately for him it was mistakenly called as a slip. Despite the further trouble, Williams started to find his way back into the contest in the round, and knowing he needed a knockout, came out firing in the final frame.

He went straight after the fleshy torso of the Sheffield man, before rocking him with a right hand that left Baker reeling around the ring and seemingly on the verge of being stopped. With the crowd on their feet Baker tried to hold as best he could and Williams managed to smother much of his work, leaving the 27 year old to see out the 3rd and take a huge upset victory on the cards.

The shocking loss deprived the 5,000 strong crowd at the Excel center the chance of seeing the anticipated rematch between Williams and Harrison, but once again proved that anything can happen in the Prizefighter format.

Round 1… Audley Harrison vs Scott Belshaw

With his bitter rival now gone, Harrison launched his campaign against Scott Belshaw. With Harrison starting cautiously, it was Belshaw who appeared to be taking the first round with greater activity. That was until Harrison caught Belshaw coming in with a straight left to the chin. The big man from Northen Ireland dropped after a delayed reaction.

Harrison was happy to sit back in the second too, but later in the round once again found Belshaw flush with a short left after Belshaw charged in behind a wide looping right. The sound of the bell was not enough to save Belshaw as referee Dave Paris waved off the fight.

Round 1… Danny Hughes vs Neil Perkins

The final opening round match-up saw two unheralded novices and former sparring partners in Danny Hughes and Neil Perkins fighting for the right to face Harrison in the Semi-finals.

After a lively and aggressive start, Hughes stepped forward, putting all his weight into a huge right cross that caught the smaller Perkins flush on the chin. Perkins struggled mightily to get up, and did manage to get to his feet but the bout was wisely stopped. It was all over in less than a minute.

Semi-Final…Coleman Barrett vs Carl Baker

In match-up of upset winners, the lightest and heaviest fighters squared off in the first semi as Coleman Barrett took on Carl Baker.

Having come through the war with Williams, Baker again started well, arguably taking the first round with an accurate jab that landed whenever he threw it. However it became apparent in the second that Barrett had been pacing himself early, and was much the busier of the two fighters the rest of the way. He intelligently moved in and out of range, catching Baker with quick hands and rocking him the third with a two fisted attack to take the fight by 29-28 scores on all 3 judges cards.

Semi-Final… Audley Harrison vs Danny Hughes

Employing a different strategy this time, Harrison took the centre of the ring and looked to push Hughes back, believing that he would be much less effective on the back foot. Though enforcing his ring generalship, Harrison was decidedly negative, not committing with anything until midway through the second when Hughes started to try and press the fight. After taking a couple of solid lefts in the second, Hughes was put down in the 3rd from Harrison’s accurate counters and forced to hold on. The scores were 30-26, 29-27, 29-28 in favor of Harrison.

Final… Audley Harrison vs Coleman Barrett

With clear similarities between the tournament format and the amatuer game, it was probably no surprise that the two most decorated amatuers in the field found themselves in the final.

The bout got off to a nasty start as Barrett deliberately headbutted Harrison on the blind side of referee Dave Paris. Had the man in charge seen the infraction, it would have almost certainly meant a deduction on the cards.

Instead it may have served to rattle the always anxious Harrison, who found himself thoroughly out boxed by the Irishman in the first 3 minutes. Barrett moved in and out quickly throughout the opening frame, hitting a confused Harrison at will.

After continuing to look panicked and out of ideas in the second, Harrison suddenly came to life, finding success with his powerful left. After a good 30 second stretch where the big man landed some sharp blows, he connected with a hard left hand that caught Barrett flush on the chin as the Irishman was backing away.

A lifeless Barrett fell backwards on the ropes and down to the canvas, with his corner quickly on their way into the ring. Barrett managed to get to his feet, but Paris had seen enough and the 37 year old Harrison was the winner.

Following the trophy presentation the self-managed fighter who is now based in California stated that he had formed an alliance with the events promoter Barry Hearn and will be looking towards British and European titles once more.

e-mail Matt Chudley Read more!

David Tua Can Still Make Some Noise

It was past midnight (EST) and I wanted to see some decent boxing. Allan Green had just bored me to tears while once again proving that he is not a threat to any of the world's best 168 pound fighters.

I considered throwing in an old tape of one of my favorite classic battles (never a bad idea), but there was another enticing option. David Tua was fighting Shane Cameron in New Zealand, and the fight was available via PPV live stream from SecondsOutTV.com.

The bout was billed as "The Fight Of The Century". Even though I wasn't likely to be treated to anything resembling that classic from '71, I'm a fight junkie, and this was my best chance to calm the withdrawals. I bought the show and was not disappointed.

The card delivered a bit of everything. There were competitive 6 rounders featuring pugs who came to win, untidy scraps between local talent, and an intriguing main event that delivered a surprising and welcome message: David Tua is back!

You heard right. The Tuaman can still go.

He absolutely crushed Cameron, knocking him down and out in the first round. The only reason it even went into the second was due to the referee inexplicably allowing Cameron to continue, despite having to hold the badly concussed fighter up. Only 7 seconds in to the second round, a frighteningly violent volley - reminicent of Ray Mercer finishing Tommy Morrison - produced the official KO.

Now I realize that Mr. Cameron is no world beater, but this was a performance worth getting excited about for a few reasons.

1. There's a heavyweight out there who can turn the lights out with a single bomb.

2. That heavyweight showed up in solid shape. 237 is not a bad weight at all for him at age 36.

3. That heavyweight actually has some talent!

As Vitali Klitschko is showing us, in these dark days of heavyweight boxing, an older fighter with some real ability can still be the man. The way I see, it's not unrealistic for David Tua to still claim a major belt - a prize that alluded him back in his prime years despite having more good wins than a lot of the other fighters who have been able to call themselves "world" champions.

This is a guy who fought John Ruiz, Oleg Maskaev, Ike Ibeabuchi, David Izon and Hasim Rahman all before getting a title shot. As an aside, compare that tough schedule to the kind of insultingly safe matchmaking we have come to accept just 10 years later.

After that impressive run, he lost to an all-timer in Lennox Lewis, before being thrown in with slick lefty Chris Byrd and coming away on the short end of a 12 round decision. He got back on track with a stoppage win over awkward jab and grab specialist, Fres Oquendo, but then was held to a draw in a rematch with Hasim Rahman.

Since then, he's spent more time in court than in the ring. A nasty split with Kevin Barry left him on the shelf for far too long and before last night, it had been about 6 years since he had any really meaningful business in the ring.

But that mess is behind him now. It's 2009 and the division is a slum. If there was ever a time to pick up that elusive belt, it's now.

On top you've got the Klitschko brothers.

Vitali, the slightly bigger, much tougher brother is likely the best and would present a horrible stylistic challenge. Too tall, too long and not fragile enough.

Wladimir, on the other hand has shown a vulnerability to big punchers who will attack him with some speed. As it stands right now, this is his best chance to make a splash, because it says here that little bro is going to have a hell of a tough time standing up to the kind of violence Tua is capable of. If he gets tagged, Wlad will fall. Hard.

There's also a good chance that David Haye will take Nicolay Valuev's title later this year. A Haye-Tua tilt would be an explosive affair, to be sure. The one huge edge you have to give to the old guy is in the chin department. In a sure war, give me the guy who can take it.

The challenge is getting him another opportunity to knock off one of the top guys. It's up to those in charge to make responsible choices from here on out. I've heard that Rahman or Kali Meehan could be up next. Meehan is rated ridiculously high by the WBA for no reason at all (I know, they don't need a reason) and he would have virtually no chance against the destructive force I saw last night, so that's probably the smartest path to take. It would do good business too.

Whatever happens, I'm just happy to have a heavyweight back on the scene that can create some excitement. He's old, never had the deepest lungs, and won't throw as many punches as I want him to, but there's nothing out there as aesthetically pleasing as a David Tua left hook to the chin. I'll take it.

email Lee Payton Read more!

British Scene: Prizefighter Heavyweights III Preview

Matt Chudley previews tomorrow night's Prizefighter Heavyweight tournament.

Tomorrow night at the Excel Arena, Sky Sports presents the 3rd Heavyweight installment and 7th overall addition of Barry Hearn's Prizefighter series. With the highest bounty to date on offer, Hearn has managed to entice some of the biggest names in the domestic heavyweight scene to tomorrow night’s tournament – though the withdrawal of former British and Commonwealth champion Michael Sprott has left the field's overall star power somewhat diminished.

The early demand for tickets caused the one night tournament to be moved from the pokey confines of the York Hall to the 5,000 seat Excel Arena which also saw the two previous encounters between the two men expected to meet in the final, Danny Williams and Audley Harrison.

Williams and Harrison's first fight at the venue drew 8 million viewers on ITV with Harrison heading into the bout unbeaten in the pros after clinching a gold medal at the 2000 Olympics, and Williams not long removed from memorable victory over Mike Tyson and a world title challenge against Vitali Klitschko. Though the circumstances might be very different this time around, the rivalry remains as hotly contested as ever with Williams risking his British crown to follow Harrison into the 8 man elimination tournament.

Opening the show and tipped as the third favourite, former British Champion Scott Gammer (18-4-1) comes in on the back of four defeats in his last five fights. In 2006, Gammer became the first Welshman to claim the Lonsdale belt in 22 years but was soon relieved of the title by an in shape and motivated Danny Williams.

He then went on to lose fights to John McDermott and unbeaten European prospects Francesco Pianeta and Robert Helenius. Still only 32 and having once shown promise, Gammer could potentially cause Williams problems over the 3 round distance in the semis as he held his own early in their previous fight.

Going up against Gammer in the quarters is undersized Irishman Coleman Barrett, who sports an unspectacular 8-0 record with 2 stoppage wins. The 6'1 southpaw was essentially a cruiserweight through his first 6 fights before taking an almost four year hiatus from the sport and returning as a heavyweight. While there’s little on his pro ledger to signal himself as a threat for the £32,000 prize, Barrett did capture 5 Irish amatuer titles and a bronze at the junior world amateur championships so may be suited to the three round format.

With the presence of Danny Williams, the tournament can boast having a reigning British Champion in the field for the first time – certainly a sign of the event’s increasing appeal among fighters in the British Isles. Williams may have lost his last three fights in the eyes of many but a stoppage defeat to Albert Sosnowski sandwiched between controversial majority and split decision wins over John McDermott have done little to discourage the 36 year old from choosing to continue his career. As ever it’s almost impossible to predict how the mercurial Williams will perform on the night, but should he show up in shape and keen to boost his bank balance, he must be considered the favourite.

Looking to upset the Williams apple cart is the equally unpredictable and bloated Carl Baker (8-3). The 6'4 southpaw from Sheffield, who often tips the scales at over 300lbs has managed to avenge two of his three defeats with the other being to fellow entrant Scott Gammer and has acquired the meaningless 'British Masters' title in the process. Spurred on by the dismissive words of Mike Tyson who said that he had no chance when the former World Champ conducted the draw, Baker is eager to prove a point.

Once again talking of world titles, Audley Harrison gets a last chance to make a mark on the professional boxing ranks after a career of unfulfilled potential and wasted talent. A 6'4 Southpaw with an Olympic Gold Medal and a large contract from the BBC, Harrison seemed set for big things but a series of lackluster performances against weak opposition caused many observers to label him as 'Fraudly' even before he went on to lose to the likes of Danny Williams and Dominick Guinn.

With all the necessary physical advantages but none of the intestinal fortitude, Harrison was given second and third chances after signing with Frank Warren but was then dumped by the promoter after dropping a ten round decision to Martin Rogan. At 37, Harrison could find himself in a fight for the vacant British title by clinching the tournament and could possibly have one last throw of the dice with three wins on the night.

Facing Harrison in the first round of the competition is Northern Ireland's Scott Belshaw. The 6'7 puncher was overmatched last time out against Tyson Fury and while his technique is horrendous, he does possess the kind of size and power that have terrified the Londoner before. Labeled as the Irish George Foreman early in his pro career by promoter Frank Maloney, Belshaw is there to be hit and should Audley show any kind of desire his passage to the next round should be assured.

Yet to face an opponent with a winning record is Sunderland’s Danny Hughes. The fleshy 6-0-1 fighter was set to face Michael Sprott, but with the former British and Commonwealth champion pulling out of the event following the death of his sister, Hughes will now take on Neil Perkins in a battle of unheralded and inexperienced fighters.

Like his opponent, the 4-0 Perkins is yet to post a victory over a fighter with a winning record and the victor is likely to be a massive underdog at the semi final stages. A former ABA finalist and only 4 fights into his pro career, Perkins may benefit from being stuck in his amateur ways with the 3 round distances. Read more!