Weekend Report 24-30 Nov.: Crawford dominates Beltran; more

Undefeated Terrence Crawford (25-0, 17 KO's) returns to his hometown in Omaha and retains title. He was also crowned as the new Transnational Boxing Rankings Board lightweight lightweight champion. Crawford convincingly routed Raymundo Beltran (29-7-1, 17 KO's) to the delight of his hometown crowd. It seemed that this would be Crawford's final fight in the lightweight division, as he plans to move up to 140 pound division.

There's talk popping up that Crawford might be an opponent also for Manny Pacquiao. The Filipino boxing icon has indicated that he plans to move back down to 140 if there's no Mayweather fight. Pacquiao knocked down Chris Algieri six times en route to a dominating decision victory last week.

Since Chris Algieri had been stripped off his WBO 140 title when he fought Pacquiao for the WBO 147 title, Crawford could fight the vacant 140 strap. Ruslan Provodnikov name has been mentioned also who won also this week in Russia against former lightweight champion Jose Luis Castillo.

The rest of this week's boxing results:

• Ruslan Provodnikov KO5 Jose Luis Castillo


• Evgeny Gradovich D12 Jayson Velez


• Tyson Fury TKO10 Derek Chisora


• Rakhim Chakhiev TKO4 Jackson Junior


• Srisaket Sor Rungvisai KO3 Bobby Concepcion

Provodnikov knocks out Castillo in a mismatch

As expected, it's just a matter of time when hard-hitting Ruslan Provodnikov let his hands out of the cage to stop former champion but shopworn Jose Luis Castillo in Round 5 in Luzhniki, Moscow, Russia.

A three-punch combination to the head from Provodnikov made Castillo staggering towards the ropes in Round 5. And as Provodnikov followed him for the kill, the referee stepped in to stop the fight. Just in time, Castillo took a knee. Prior to the stoppage, Provodnikov scored a knockdown in the same round. Castillo still has the heart of the champion, but no longer has the pop in his arsenal, bravely stand up and was able to continue.

Prior to the knockout -- in the fourth round -- it is obvious that Provodnikov was already out from the cage and throws hard shots after hard shots, few seconds remaining in the round. Castillo stood his ground and traded. But it's clear that it's just a matter of time in the next round that the old lion will succumb to the younger lion. Castillo went to his corner with very shaky legs.

The boxing media widely criticized this match-up. We all know that Castillo is a great champion. But he is will past his prime at 40 years old. And he's definitely in a very dangerous situation against a hard-hitting opponent in Provodnikov.

In the first knockdown itself, I'm praying that the referee stops the fight... that Castillo will not stand up.

Provodnikov vs Castillo Results: Mickey Rourke knocks out Elliot Seymour in two

The 62 year old Hollywood actor Mickey Rourke knocks out Elliot Seymour (1-10, 1 KO's) in Round 2, in his ring return after 20 years since his last fight.

Rourke entered the ring with a cowboy hat. When he reached the ring he give his hat to his Filipino trainer Marvin Samodio.

In the first round Rourke kept on shifting stance. He fake a heart attack when Seymour landed a punch, then he came back with a left hook to the face of Seymour.

In the second round Rourke tapped Seymour to the body. Seymour went down! Lol! He beat the count and Rourke followed up with body taps and lol! Seymour was down and was not able to beat the count.

Rourke almost got knockdown after the fight, when he tried to carrry his trainer onto his shoulders.

I don't know what is this crap going on in Russia. I don't know also if this match is good for boxing. The fight is worst than the scripted wrestling match because wrestlers practice stunts. And when they performed, it look like natural real stuff. But this one naaaaah!

Anyway, one thing I learned from this fight is that even at 62 years old, granted that you are still fit to train, you can still achieve that rip body.

(Update 01 Dec.: It seemed that I'm not mistaken with my suspicion: that Elliot Seymour "dived" against Rourke in Russia. It is reported on the Daily Mail that Seymour is homeless and was paid to throw the fight.)

Elliot Seymour, the man who lost to Rourke on Friday, is a homeless drifter who trained at the same Hollywood gym Rourke and was paid to fly to Russia to make the actor 'look good'."

Lomachenko's hand injury did not stop him from winning

Sometimes in boxing, the fighter's toughness is not measured on how well he takes the hardest punch. Fighting with adversity without flinching measures a fighter's core and mental toughness.

Willingness to go on fighting while was injuring pain; fighting with one eye, fighting with one hand or fighting with one leg, requires mental toughness.

[caption id="attachment_4608" align="alignright" width="300"] Xaume Olleros / AFP / Getty Images[/caption]

On Saturday night on the undercard of Pacquiao-Algieri, Vasyl Lomachenko (3-1, 2 KO's) injured his left hand.

He faced Chonlatarn Piriyapinyo (52-2, 33 KO) for the WBO featherweight title. He fought exclusively with his right hand from Round 6, all the way to the championship round.

Somewhere around the sixth round, I hit him with a hard punch … his legs started wobbling, and then I threw more punches and I felt I hit him on a hard part of his body,” Lomachenko said through an interpreter. “I threw a few more, but decided, ‘I can’t throw no more.’ ”

The two-time Olympic gold medalist from the Ukraine left hand suspected broken. But thanks that after an x-ray taken it showed that it was not broken. The x-ray showed swelling.

Whether broken or swelling one thing for sure it is painful.

But Lomachenko did not quit. He fought bravely with one hand for six rounds and won the fight via unanimous decision by scores of 120-107 across the board.

But not all fighters had the toughness to continue fighting with adversities.

Argentinean Javier Nicolas Chacon quit 30 seconds into the tenth round claiming that he had dislocated his shoulder earlier in the fight.

Chacon fought the same night at Echo Arena, Liverpool, Merseyside in the UK. He fought for the bantamweight title against Jamie McDonnell.

Although the degree of pain between swelling hand and dislocated shoulder might be different. But one thing is certain as I mentioned above; both injuries were painful.
Chacon at the time he quit still in the position to win on points granted that he continue and finish the remaining two rounds.

But Chacon quit and lose while Lomachenko continued and won.

Is Jessie Vargas next for Pacquiao?

Jessie Vargas (26-0, 9 KO) retained his undefeated record, dominating Antonio DeMarco (31-4-1, 23 KO) as the televised opener of Paquiao-Algieri HBO PPV in Cotai Arena, The Venetian, Macau. Former pound-for-pound king Roy Jones Jr. is in Vargas' corner as his new trainer that later joined the HBO commentary panel.

[caption id="attachment_4592" align="alignright" width="300"] Chris Farina/Top Rank[/caption]

Vargas won on all scorecards 116-112 in 12 rounds of exciting action.

Vargas' dominating, yet exciting, win over  former lightweight titleholder, DeMarco (who's dangerous till the final bell, to his credit) seemed positioned to fight Pacquiao next.

Freddie Roach, long time Pacquiao trainer told that his protege is considering moving back down to 140 lbs. And Pacquiao also has said that he can even make 135 lbs. So, if a Mayweather fight may not happen, which I believed is the case, Vargas could be next for Pacquiao, as what HBO's Jim Lampley and Max Kellerman is hinting?

With Pacman's impressive showing in the main event, what do you think of Vargas' chance? Are we seeing another mismatch early next year?

Pacquiao vs Algieri Round by Round report

Filipino boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao (56-5-2, 38 KO) will defend his WBO welterweight title against undefeated American boxer Chris Algieri (28-0, 8 KO) at The Venetian Macao’s Cotai Arena in Macau, China.

Tune in for round by round updates.

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Roman Gonzalez stops Rocky Fuentes in six

Roman Gonzalez (41-0-0, 35 KO's) of Nicaragua successfully defended his WBC flyweight title. He stopped Filipino contender Rocky Fuentes (35-8-2, 20 KO's) in Round 6 in Japan.

Rocky Fuentes went down early in Round 6 by a big right hand to the jaw. Although Fuentes was able to beat the count and continued the fight, but the barrage of punches from ranked number 3 pound-for-pound by TBRB opted the referee to stop the fight.

Weights from Macau: Pacquiao 143.8, Algieri 144.2

On Friday night (Saturday morning in Macau) Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao hits the scale and tipped in at 143.8 lbs. While Chris Algieri came in .4 lbs heavy at 144.4 lbs on his first attempt. The match is contracted at a catch weight limit of 144 lbs. So, he stripped everything, but still came in at 144.2 lbs.

Well, .2 lbs is not a big issue at all. Both men are ready for Saturday night's welterweight showdown.

Undercard weights

Jessie Vargas (25-0, 9 KO) 140 lbs vs Antonio DeMarco (31-3-1, 23 KO) 139.9 lbs - junior welterweight

Vasyl Lomachenko (2-1, 1 KO) 126 lbs vs Chonlatarn Piriyapinyo (52-1, 33 KO) - WBO featherweight title

Zou Shiming (5-0, 1 KO) 112 lbs vs Kwanpichit OnesongchaiGym (27-0-2, 12 KO) 112 lbs - 12-round flyweight

Will Rocky Fuentes pulls a "Rocky Story" over Roman Gonzalez?

Boxing fans are all eyes to the big boxing event on Saturday night (Sunday morning in Manila). For the fight between Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao and undefeated American Chris Algieri. But another world class championship fight happening in Japan. This is between another pound-for-pound fighter against another Filipino.

"The Road Warrior" Rocky Fuentes (35-7-2, 20 KO's) battles Roman "Chocolatito" Gonzalez. The undefeated Gonzalez (40-0, 34 KO's) is TBRB's pound-for-pound ranked number 3 fighter. He's just behind Pacquiao and Mayweather. The fight will be held at the Yokohama International Swimming Pool, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan.

Asian Boxing reported that the odds were of course in favor of Gonzalez and is a 25-1 favorite. In paper, it is safe to say that this is a mismatch. Gonzalez is one of the best and talented fighter in the sport today. He sports an undefeated record. He wins 40 fights, 34 by way of stoppage. He's one of the most active fighter. This will be Gonzalez's fourth fight this year. He knockout Akira Yaegashi in September for the WBC light flyweight title.

But Fuentes is so confident. For the record, Fuentes is 6-0 in Japan. That's why he earned the moniker; The Road Warrior. Many boxing fans, writers had already written off Fuentes. But Fuentes told that the media would be reporting an upset from Yokohama.

But the question is that: what are the chances Rocky Fuentes have against ultra talented Gonzalez? Can he pull a "Rocky Story" on Saturday?

Well. Fuentes has decent power in both hands. He had previously sparred Gonzalez and he told that he will use this experience to his advantage. Style wise, Gonzalez is not a runner. He's an aggressive fighter. So, Fuentes has a chance to land his ammunition. Unlike Amnat Ruenroeng who won against Fuentes via unanimous decision, who's a runner.

ALA Gym head trainer Edito “Ala” Villamor told that Fuentes is in good condition after great preparation and has a 50-50 chance against a great champion.

So, apart from Pacquiao-Algieri in Macau, lets not forget that Chocolatito and Rocky Fuentes will meet also in the squared circle in Japan. And this is about two fighters coming forward. Imagine the fireworks!

Jennings could be next for Klitschko

Undefeated heavyweight contender Bryant Jennings (19-0, 10 KO's) could be next for the unified champion Wladimir Klitschko (63-3, 54 KO's) as the possible match-up is "in works" for spring next year, per Dan Rafael's blog on ESPN.com.

Although, Jennings and Klitschko are keen on fighting the winner of Bermane Stiverne and unbeaten American KO artist Deontay Wilder, but that fight could only happen only in May or June next year. Stiverne-Wilder is slated on January 17.

I could have fought this month but my mind is set on fighting for the WBC world title," Jennings said. "I worked my way to the top of the WBC rankings and now it's time for me to make my mark in history. Stiverne or Wilder, I don't care who it is. I'll be ready to fight either one of them. My promoters, Gary Shaw, Antonio Leonard, and I are all on the same page. We want that WBC title.

On the other hand, Klitschko wanted to collect the missing piece of hardware. He owns the major alphabet belts: WBO, WBA, IBF, WBA plus The Ring and the Transnational Boxing Rankings Board world heavyweight title. The missing piece's Stiverne's WBC strap.

The 38 year old Klitschko who handed Kubrat Pulev his first loss in a spectacular performance last Saturday in Germany wanted to fight back in the US. So, I think Jennings is the ideal guy, while Stiverne and Wilder are engaged with each other.

So we have this scenario:

• Stiverne vs. Wilder on January 17.


• Klitschko vs. Jennings in March or April

Winners could face each other in August or September.

Mayweather-Pacquiao fight closer than ever?

It seemed that the long awaited mega-fight between boxing's pound-for-pound best Floyd Mayweather Jr. (47-0, 26 KO) and Filipino star Manny Pacquiao (56-5-2, 38 KO) is closer to reality more than ever.

This bout, although, has been long overdue, is still the fight that boxing fans wanted.

Whenever Pacquiao or Mayweather won a fight against separate opponents. Talks will then surface that they will fight each other next. Fans get excited! But only to get disappointed as Mayweather will then announced a different opponent for his next.

However, the LA Times reported on Monday that CBS Corp. Chief Executive Leslie Moonves is "helping to bring the two sides together".

Per LA Times...

According to key aides for Pacquiao and Mayweather, CBS Corp. Chief Executive Leslie Moonves is helping to bring the two sides together and has the respect of Mayweather and Bob Arum, Pacquiao's promoter.

Pacquiao will be defending his WBO welterweight title on Saturday in Macao against Chris Algieri. Mayweather successfully defended his WBC title in a rematch with Marcos Maidana in September.

Granted that eight division champion get past the New Yorker on Saturday. And if the said negotiations arrived into an agreement. We will probably have Mayweather-Pacquiao in May.

You know, this time I'm a bit hopeful that this fight will definitely happen. This is because two big TV networks were willing to make the fight happen. HBO and Showtime teamed up already before. Why not teaming up again for a super, ultra, mega fight?

Well, I'm nagging earlier in this blog. Maywaether-Pacquiao will happen if Showtime will put pressure on Mayweather to fight Pacquiao.

 

Manny Pacquiao vs Chris Algieri preview and prediction

After all the preparation, it boils down to two men finally tangle in the ring.

During the fight's build up between the Filipino boxing icon and undefeated Chris Algieri; they were very cordial to each other. Nothing to trash talks about. No drama. No nothing.

Instead, what they promised is that they had the best training camp. And it looks like they did have good training camps. Both men look sharp and physically strong during the media workout. They don't have weight issues as both men, for sure will comfortably make the  the contracted 144 pound limit.

Pacquiao (56-5-2, 38 KO) will defend his WBO welterweight title against unbeaten Chris Algieri.  The Venetian Macao’s Cotai Arena of Macau in China will hold the event and can be watch on HBO Pay-Per-View.

So, I think, if both indeed physically prepared for this fight, then we have a great fight this weekend. Plain and simple. No gloves issues. No one's threatening that the fight will not push through. But I hope the fight will sell by itself. The last time Pacquiao fought in Macao was against Brandon Rios. The fight generated unsatisfactory less than 500K PPV buys.

Well, it's not my forte to talk about this fight's business point of view. Instead let me do my preview and prediction.

I think, in Round 1, Pacman will try to surprise Algieri. He will use Germany's blitzkrieg attack. Pacquiao knows well that Algieri doesn't hits hard. Algieri's only eight knockouts out of 20 wins is a testament that he doesn't have that one-punch knockout power. Pacquiao's early onslaught will keep Algieri on the back foot. Algieri survive the round by covering up tightly. And riding his bicycle.

In the second round, Pacquiao lands a powerful left straight on Algieri. The undefeated New Yorker took it, but he felt it. Then he realized Pacquiao power. It is really powerful. He thinks that he can run, but can't hide. He stand his ground and trades with Pacquiao, which is a bad move. But Algieri, is just swinging with the fences. He can't catch Pacquiao clean. Now he realized what speed is all about. He thinks of Tim Bradley words. “He’s gonna learn November 22 what fast is all about. Manny Pacquiao, lightning-fast feet, reflexes, angles, he's gonna see what that's like. He definitely is. Good luck to him." Algieri said to himself. "Yes! Good luck to me!

In the third round, Algieri (28-0, 8 KO), is obviously in the survival mode. He just was trying to avoid as much punches from the eight division champion. Although Algieri landed some jabs that momentarily back Pacquiao on his track. But it is obviously Pacquiao who controls the pace and the fight. Pacquiao uses superior foot speed and lightning fast combinations to score whenever he wants. It is Algieri's tremendous physical condition that keeps him up in the third stanza. But swelling started to show on Algieri's handsome face.

In the fourth, the 35 year old Pacquiao focuses on Algieri's body. The 5'10' Algieri continued fighting on the back foot. He uses his jab to keep the 5' 6.5" Pacquiao off. But Pacquiao was able to slip and move in behind the 72" Algieri's reach and fired four to five unanswered combinations.

In the fifth, the 30 year old Algieri looks frustrated. He's behind the scorecards. His nose is bleeding. He breathes with his mouth. His head started to fall because of Pacquiao's body assaults.

In the sixth, the Kia Sorento head coach, started to mix his combinations. He fired shots to the body and ended to the head. Few seconds before round ends, a short left hook catches on Algieri's chin. He has no idea where in came from. Algieri went down. Face first. The referee did not bother to count. He waived it off. Manny Pacquiao KO6 Chris Algieri. Don't worry it's just my prediction. What's yours? Say it in the comments section.

Paul Andrade: $250,000 for [fighting] Charlo is ridiculous

It seems that Demetrius Andrade (21-0, 14 KO) pulled out from his title defense against Jermell Charlo (24-0, 11 KO) because of money issues.

Although, in a statement from Golden Boy Promotions stated only that Andrade is "unavailable" for Dec. 13. But per Ringtv. craveonline.com, Paul Andrade, Demetrius' father was quoted saying that the fight was "made without even talking" to them.

That fight was made without even talking to us. I have no objection to the fight but what we have objections to is that they didn’t want to pay us any money to fight.“I mean, $250,000 for Charlo is ridiculous. That’s what they offered, but we did not ask to make the fight or look to make the fight. We waited until the last minute for them to come back with a better offer but it just didn’t happen”, says Paul Andrade.

Demetrius Andrade unavailable for Dec. 13 title defense

Demetrius Andrade (21-0, 14 KO) cancelled his junior middleweight title defense against Jermell Charlo (24-0, 11 KO) for an "undisclosed" reasons. In press release from Golden Boy Promotions, Andrade, is said "unavailable".

At this time, it is unclear whether Andrade vs. Charlo will be rescheduled for a later date. Discussions are ongoing, and additional details will be announced as soon as they are finalized.

Andrade-Charlo is part of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will be headlined by the welterweight showdown between Amir Khan and Devon Alexander. Also co-features Interim WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith Thurman against undefeated challenger Leonard Bundu.

Manny Pacquiao, Chris Algieri arrive in Macau

It's Pacquiao-Algieri fight week fight fans! And the fighters are now in Macau for the big boxing event this weekend.

Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao and American undefeated boxer Chris Algieri were already in Macau for their upcoming fight on Saturday at the Venetian Macao’s Cotai Arena in Macau, China on HBO PPV.

[caption id="attachment_4539" align="alignright" width="300"] Chris Farina/Top Rank[/caption]

Pacquiao ((56-5-2, 38 KO's) will defend his WBO welterweight title against Algieri (20-0, 8 KO's). Pacquiao regain the title back from another American in Timothy Bradley in a rematch in April. Bradley took the title back in 2012 in one of the most controversial decision in boxing.

Algieri, who arrived a day earlier than Pacquiao, did a two-hour light training according to a report from Dyan Castillejo of ABS-CBN.

If Algieri arrived in a smaller group, with his trainer Tim Lane, Pacquiao, as usual, arrived with a huge entourage. The Filipino fighting congressman came with a group of 380 people.

"Pacquiao had so many people in his group that he needed two planes to bring them all", writes Dan Rafael on his blog at ESPN.com

Wladimir Klitschko pulverizes Kubrat Pulev

My prediction is that: The mandatory challenger Kubrat Pulev would go as far as Round 10. Before the defending champion, Wladimir Kltischko knocks him out.

But man! I thought it's all over in Round 1. The crowd at the O2 World Arena, Altona, in Hamburg, Germany were roaring, as the fight seemed to end as early as Round 1.

[caption id="attachment_4528" align="alignright" width="300"] Frank Augstein[/caption]

Klitschko (63-3, 53 KO's) dropped Pulev twice in Round 1 with vicious left hooks. But the former undefeated Pulev (20-1, 11 KO's) immediately back on his feet.

He even stood on one leg to show he was fine. But then again, the 38 year old Klitschko landed another left hook that sent Pulev down again. This time, I'm thinking -- this could be it.

Pulev hurt but was able to get up and survived the rocky first round.

In the second, Klitschko started the hit-hug combination. But referee Tony Weeks' quick to separate them.

I thought that during clinches Pulev can maneuver his way to score and land significant punches.

But I'm wrong.

He contented to land rabbit punches. And to the side of Klitschko's body. It has no significant effect.

In the third, it seemed the 33 year old Pulev recovered. He was able to land some good jabs.

What I noticed is that: Pulev never had a solid defense that would at least deter the rangy left hook of Klitschko.

He don't have even the head movement to slip incoming punches. While Klitschko was precise with his punches.

Then, a big Klitschko right hand landed on Pulev. I don't understand how Pulev took that. He remained standing to his credit.

But another left hook dropped Pulev again. He still survived the round. I'm thinking this could be over in Round 4.

Well, in Round 4 Pulev was a little brave and scored some right hands. But Klitschko resorted to his holding again. I'm surprised Pulev survived another round.

The end of Pulev came in Round 5. Klitschko landed again his most effective arsenal of the night -- the left hook -- sent Pulev flat on his back.

There's no way Pulev can survive this time. Tony Weeks halted the contest 2:11 in Round 5.

With the win, Klitschko retains four heavyweight world titles including The Ring and TBRB titles. This is also his 21 straight victories, including 17 title defenses.

Donaire likely to fight in the Philippines

Former four division champion Nonito Donaire is planning to fight in the Philippines for his comeback fight after losing via knockout against Nicholas Walters in October.

Top Rank boss Bob Arum told ESPN.com Donaire's plan to fight in his native country.

Per Dan Rafael's Blog:

He [Donaire] wants to fight in the Philippines,” Arum said. “We’re going to see if we can book him in a fight in March.”

Arum further told that Donaire will likely return to the junior featherweight division.

It was clear that Donaire was overpowered by the naturally bigger Walters during their featherweight encounter. I think moving back down in weight is the right move for Donaire. But I don't know if he could reign again as champion in a division where the supremely skilled and talented Guillermo Regondeux resides. Rigo dethroned Donaire in a one-sided affair back in 2013.

Pinoy Pride 28 results: Nietes retains title

Donnie Nietes retains his WBO light flyweight title and becomes "The longest reigning Filipino champion", breaking the record of the Gabriel "Flash" Elorde in the coming new year. The great Elorde reigned for seven years and three months from 1960 to 1967.

Neites defeated his challenger, Carlos Velarde of Sinaloa, Mexico. The 24 year old Velarde suffered a nasty cut above the left eye. The cut happened in the seventh round. He complained while in the corner during the break; that it was a head-butt that caused the cut.

If the fight will be stopped, the outcome will not be favorable for Velarde, even if it's coming from accidental head-butt. He's clearly behind on the scorecards.

However, Velarde, now dropped to 26-4-1, 14 KO's, decided to pull his own plug and quit after the seventh round. Nietes won via RTD after Round 7.

Neites, now improved to 34-1-4 and 20 wins by way of stoppage, plans to move up in weight (probably in the flyweight division) for his next fight. A division reigned by pound-for-pound fighter Roman Gonzalez of Nicaragua.

It’s actually a talent-packed division, wherein Juan Francisco Estrada, Akira Yaegashi, Amnat Ruenroeng, Moruti Mthalene and Brian Viloria were ranked top five contenders according to the Transnational Boxing Rankings Board.

But after the fight, Aldequer thinks that Nietes is "more comfortable" at 108.

Right now I think he’s more comfortable at 108 so we’ll stick to 108. The plan is really to go to 112” said Aldegeur.

Pedraza defeats Farenas for 130 pound title eliminator

Undefeated Puerto Rican, Jose Pedraza (19-0, 12 KO's) trims down the chance of Filipino hard-hitting, Michael Farenas to land another world title shot. Pedraza defeats Farenas for the IBF title eliminator held in Coliseo Pedrín Zorrilla, Hato Rey, in Puerto Rico.

"Jose Pedraza, delivered the most impressive performance of his career to date…" writes Jake Donovan of Boxingscene.com. According to Donovan, Pedraza was "in control" of the fight.

Pedraza was well in control of the fight, never showing any fear against the dangerous Farenas, who has upset the apple cart more than once in his career." Donovan wrote.

Farenas (39-5-4, 31 KO's) has been on the road fighting with one thing in his mind - to land another world title match. He's been in a world title fight twice. But he was defeated and denied the world title that very professional fighter is aiming for, apart from bigger paycheck.

In 2012, Farenas fought to a draw against defending WBA super featherweight champion Takashi Uchiyama. The champion Uchiyama retained his title. And in the succeeding fight, Farenas was knockout by former undefeated Cuban, Yuriorkis Gamboa.

If Farenas won, he would have landed title shot against unbeaten super featherweight titlist Rances Berthelemy. But with the defeat, the 30 year old Farenas' chance for another world title shot is slim. He needs to go back in a long line of contenders vying for the title shot.

Rod Salka wins a bloody fight with Monty Meza Clay

Well, Rod Salka, no longer reminded me that he was once the fighter that Danny Garcia has been criticized fighting with. On Friday night, at the CONSOL Energy Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Salka fought an extremely entertaining fight against Monte Meza Clay. Both men were bloodied in the onslaught. The fight was the co-main event on eIN Sports, promoted by Iron Mike Productions.

It was a battle of attrition.

Although, Salka did not stand in there to fight toe-to-toe, instead he boxed around Clay for the entire fight. But it did not make the fight boring, as Clay relentlessly pressed forward the entire ten rounds.

Salka, now improved his record to 20-4 and 3 wins by knockout, was easily knockout in August by Danny Garcia in Round 2. But that fight happened in a catch-weight of 142 pounds. But, against Clay, Salka defended his title at lightweight -- Salka's natural weight.

Salka showed he can take a punch in his natural weight class. He was able to withstand the bombardment from Clay -- who had tremendous power and conditioning.

Clay, now dropped to 36-4 with 22 knockouts, was able to sustain the aggression for full 10 rounds. Although most of his power punches were swing on the fences that may took a lot of gas out from him; yet he still able to maintained pressure till the final bell. And the result, both men soak with blood after the fight. Both men cut and sliced above both eye. Salka also had a big mouse under his eye.

It was a terrific fight.

Salka landed fast combination with regularity while Clay landed the hard shots, but not in succession. Salka would eventually stay out in the pocket once Clay mounts his offensive. In the end it was Salka's hand raised as the victor to the tuned of 97-94, 98-92, and 99-91 on the judges' scorecards.

Final stats says Salka landed total 0f 226 punches out of 79 thrown while Clay landed 180 out of 764.

Well, I'm thinking what if the Salka's fight with Garcia was in the lightweight division. Maybe Salka can take Garcia's punch at lightweight and give Garcia troubles. Garcia was struggling against Mauricio Herrera who's a boxer like Salka. Anyway just saying!

Weigh-in results: Klitschko 246, Pulev 247

The reigning heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko (62-3, 52 KO) and undefeated challenger Kubrat Pulev (20-0, 11 KO) almost have identical weight. Both fighters hit the scale on Friday in Das Wiegen in Hamburg, Germany. The duo are scheduled to face each other on Saturday night at the O2 World Arena, Altona, in Hamburg for the anticipated heavyweight clash.

Klitschko weighed in at 246 lbs. and Pulev came in one pound heavier than the Ukrainian champion at 247 lbs.

[caption id="attachment_4493" align="alignright" width="300"] Photos: BOXFOTOGRAF.DE / Team Sauerland[/caption]

Both men look ready to go for battle.

On another note, although Klitschko held the IBF, WBA, WBO and IBO belts, it was reported that Pulev decided to pay only the IBF sanction fees. And if he won the fight he is not illegible to win all of them. Hence, the WBO, WBA and IBO will be vacant if he won.

Per Dan Rafael's Blog on ESPN.com

"Pulev, however, will only be competing for the IBF belt, for which he is the mandatory challenger, according to Klitschko manager Bernd Boente and the WBO."

According also to the report, Pulev is earning career-high $1,450,026 and will save substantial amount by  paying only the IBF sanction fees.

Pinoy Pride 28 weigths: Nietes 107.5, Velarde 108

Defending champion Donnie Nietes and his opponent Carlos Velarde made weight at the division 108 pound limit. Nietes hit the scale half pound short at 107.5 pounds, while Velarde tipped in at exactly 108 pounds. The official weigh-in was held at Robinson's Fuete in Cebu City on Friday.

On Saturday night at the Cebu City Waterfront Hotel & Casino, Nietes (33-1-4, 19 KO's) has the opportunity to break the record of Gabriel "Flash" Elorde, as the longest reigning Filipino champion.

Undercard weigh-in results:

• Milan “El Metodico” Melindo – 107.5 lbs vs Saul “Baby” Juarez of Mexico – 107 lbs.


• 'Prince' Albert Pagara - 122 lbs. vs Raul Hirales - 122 lbs.


• Francisco Rodriguez - 113 lbs vs Jomar Fajardo who weighed - 112 lbs.


• Merlito Sabillo - 107 lbs vs Faris Nenggo - 107lbs.


• AJ Banal - 124.5 lbs vs Maxsaisai Sithsaithong - 125lbs.


• Mark Magsayo - 126 lbs. vs Moon-Sun Jung 125.5 lbs.


• Polid Banal - 116 lbs. vs Ritchen Rosales - 113.5 lbs.


• Virgel Vitor - 116.5 lbs. vs Jovane Abejero 123.5 lbs.


• Gerard Suico - 111 lbs. vs Fritz Cabilla - 110 lbs.

Cuadras stops Mabait in Six

Carlos Cuadras retained his title after stopping late replacement Marvin Mabait. The 26 year old Cuadras scored a knockdown in Round 5. The referee issue a mandatory ten count on Mabait after ruling out that it was the ropes that keep Mabait up.

In the sixth, again Cuadras dropped Mabait with a right hand early in the round. Mabait got up but was floored again. The referee had seen enough and stopped the contest.

The official time of the stoppage, 36 seconds remaining in the sixth round.

With the win Cuadras improves his record to 31-0-1 and 25 KO's.

Former lineal flyweight champion Sonny Boy Jaro was supposed to be the original opponent for Cuadras. But Jaro has some problems entering the US.

Wladimir Klitschko vs Kubrat Pulev preview and prediction

Here's my Wladimir Klitschko vs Kubrat Pulev preview and prediction. This fight will happen on Saturday night at the O2 World Arena, Altona, in Hamburg, Germany. Klitschko will defend his heavyweight crown against undefeated Kubrat Pulev of Bulgaria.

The 38 years old Wladimir Klitschko (62-3, 52 KO) of Kiev, Ukraine defended the heavyweight crown seven times since unifying four alphabet belts in 2011.

Here's a quick look at a timeline when Wladimir Klitschko collected four alphabet belts.

• 2006 - Won the IBF and IBO world heavyweight title by stopping Chris Byrd in Round 7.
• 2008 - Added the WBO world heavyweight title by a unanimous decision victory over Sultan Ibragimov.
• 2011 - Added the WBA super world heavyweight title by a unanimous decision victory over David Haye.

The 6' 6" giant from Ukraine, and the younger of the Klitschko brothers  also crowned the heavyweight champion by the Transnational Boxing Ranking Board after defeating number one contender, Alexander Povetkin in 2013.

The Klitschko brothers have been ruling the heavyweight division. The older Klitschko, Vitali, retired in December to pursue a political career and elected Mayor in Kiev.

On Saturday, Wladimir Klitschko aka Dr. Steelhammer will once again try to defend all four titles. He will defend it against 33 years old Kubrat Pulev.

Kubrat Pulev (20-0, 11 KO) of Sofia, Bulgaria is a former Olympian. And Pulev looks like has the physical match -- stands at six feet and four and half inches -- against Klitschko.

Wlad has been dominating smaller opponents maximizing his height and reach advantage. I think Pulev, although two and half inches shorter, don't have so much physical disadvantage. At 33, Pulev also is the younger man but of course has less experience and only has a total of 20 fights. Yet, Pulev has a solid amateur career that spans for 10 years from 1999 to 2009 and won the Bulgarian National Championships. Pulev then turns professional in September 2009.

My prediction

Although Pulev don't have that much of physical disadvantage against Klitschko, but I think what will bother Pulev is Klitschko's heavy jab. Klitschko possesses one of the greatest long-range jab in the Heavyweight division. Not just a jab. It’s a heavy and stinging jab.

I think in the early rounds Klitschko will establish the sting of his jabs against the more active Pulev. Tony Thompson, a southpaw, gave Pulev some trouble with his right jab to the head and body in the early rounds.

However, Pulev has a quick lead straight right hand that may go through the defense of Klitschko. But he should do it with a jab that will set his right hands; otherwise it will not be effective against an orthodox Klitschko. He might be beaten by the left jab from Klitschko if he throws the lead right.

Klitschko for sure will try to maximize the two and half height advantage against Pulev. He'll fight tall. This is because he can't do the same tactics he did against a smaller opponents like Povetkin. He's hit-hug and bully style might not be effective, Pulev has the physical size and power during the clinch and close range fighting.

However, I think Klitschko's punching power, which is being set up by his vaunted jab, will carry him towards the victory.

Wladimir Klitschko TKO 10 Kubrat Pulev

Sergey Kovalev dominates Bernard Hopkins, wins UD

Good thing comes to those who wait.

It was the virtue of patience, apart from his vaunted power, that carried the night for Sergey Kovalev, who now owns three alphabet belts in the light heavyweight division, after his dominant performance over Bernard Hopkins in Atlantic City. The unification bout is the main event on Saturday night, televised by HBO.

Kovalev dropped Hopkins in Round 1 en route to unanimous decision victory.  The scorecards read: 120-106, 120-107, and 120-107.

[caption id="attachment_4464" align="alignright" width="300"] Al Bello[/caption]

Kovalev (26-0-1, 23 KO) employed a very effective and brilliantly executed game-plan. He was too cautious not open up recklessly, but not that too cautious to stay longer than needed in the defensive shell. He pressed forward, but retreats to reset if he got hit. He traded punches, but he never overextend. He showed he's not just about power, but a well polish fighter who can outbox the trickiest boxer in Bernard Hopkins.

But you have to give full credit to Bernard Hopkins, who is half century old, for taking a fight from a younger and most feared puncher in the sport today.

Hopkins was able to absorbed hard right hands from Kovalev, except one that came in the first round that dropped him. Those kinds of punches from the Russian put to sleep several young yet untested opponents.

For me it was a well calculated performance for both men.

Krusher, although dominating, yet, employed controlled aggression.

The Alien, sensing he cannot subdue the younger and stronger lion – fight to survive.

With the above being said, few boxing fans in attendance can be heard with their roaring boos! I just don’t know exactly for who those boos are. One thing was certain; it was heard all over the venue.

After the fight, both men were gracious.

“Hopkins is a tough opponent. He’s very good at keeping distance and keep control. I respect him for the fight, but he needs to stop career I think because he’s already done a lot in the boxing world and he needs to give opportunity to younger guys to be champions, says Kovalev.

“He had a good game plan nice and rangy. Stayed outside when he got hit with punches. Not that many, but when he did get hit he stepped back. He didn’t try to engage the fight as far as when he got hurt. But he fought a great technical fight.” says Hopkins.

With the defeat Hopkins is uncertain to fight on. But one thing for sure, Kovalev sits atop at the light heavyweight division, with another man on his radar – Adonis Stevenson.

Sadam Ali stops Luis Carlos Abrigu, passes toughest test

It was very scientific yet entertaining fight. In the first three rounds, a casual fan might be bored. But for hard core boxing fans those rounds were certainly fun to watch, as both fighters fighting like a chess match, anticipating each other moves and counter moves. Those rounds were actually difficult for judges to score.

In Round 4, it becomes obvious that Sadam Ali (21-0, 13 KO's) prefers to counter-punch while Abrigu pressing the action, but Ali is slightly getting the better of it. He started to get more confidence, as he lands clearer punches after a very cautious first three rounds.

In round 6, Ali shocks Abregu. He lands a well timed straight right hand right on the jaw that drops Abrigu. The shot perfectly thrown as Abrigu's feet squared up while pursuing the backpedaling Ali. Although, Abrigu got up -- he's obviously hurt. Sensing the groggy, Abrigu, Ali tries to unload flurries but there's the bell rang to signal the end of the round.

In round 7, Ali's confident grew even bigger and becomes the aggressor. But Abrigu hangs tough and landed significant punches that momentarily put Ali back to counter-punching again -- although it was again another clear round for Ali.

In Round 8, Abrigu (36-2, 29 KO's) clearly needs a knockout to win (Abrigu at this round, clearly behind the scorecards) he mounted a rally. He was able to land crisp punches from the outside that somewhat slowed down the footwork of Ali. It was the only round I saw Abrigu put a smile on his face going back into his corner. A decisive round for Abrigu.

However, the rally Abrigu started in Round 8 becomes history in the next round as Ali fight back. Ali landed couple of hard shots that sent Abrigu down again! This time pretty hard! The referee let Abrigu continue but moment’s later stop the contest after Ali came in for the kill, landing some straight right hands.

With the win, Ali is now entering the mix of talent loaded welterweight division.

Vyanchezlav Shabransky TKO2 Emil Gonzalez

Vyanchezlav Shabransky (11-0, 9 KO's) made a quick work on Emil Gonzalez in the under-card. The light heavyweight prospect was too strong and too powerful. From the opening bell, Shabransky was all over Gonzalez, unloading tons of heavy bombs to the head and body of Gonzalez.

It was a mismatch from the beginning.

Gonzalez (11-9-1, 8 KO) seemed never lands any punch of significant and was on the back foot for the six minutes he fought. Few seconds before the end of Round 2, Gonzalez received tremendous punishment. He tried to hold Shabransky. But he fell on his knees prompting the referee to rule a knockdown. He got up and beat the count. The bell rang to signal to end of the second round. Few seconds, after Gonzalez reported to his corner, the referee signaled that the fight is over. Gonzalez was not able to continue. Shabransky gets the win via TKO and remains undefeated.

Hopkins vs Kovalev weigh-in results: Hopkins 173.5, Kovalev 174.5

Both men hit the scale this afternoon and there's no problem in the first try on the scale as they came in below the light heavyweight limit. Sergey Kovalev (25-0-1, 23 KO's) came in first and registered the scale at 174.5 lbs. He's looking cut and trim as usual. Hopkins (55-6-2, 32 KO's) came in next and tipped the scale and registered one pound less than Kovalev at 173.5 lbs.

During the face-off, Hopkins was so intense. He's damn serious while Kovalev smiled and not able to look straight towards Hopkins. After the face-off, Hopkins wears a Joe Frazier T-shirt, honoring another great Philly boxer who looks fit and ready to rumble.

On Saturday night, Hopkins and Kovalev battles for the light heavyweight division on HBO main event.

For the co-featured fight, undefeated prospect Sadam Ali (20-0, 12 KO's) came in at 146 lbs and Luis Carlos Abrigu (36-1, 29 KO's) weighted in at 146.5 lbs.

Livestreaming: Hopkins-Kovalev weigh-in at 3PM EST

Broadcast live streaming video on Ustream

After all the talks and hard work the fighters put leading into the Bernard Hopkins vs Sergey Kovalev light heavyweight unification bout, they will hit the scales today, Friday at 3 pm EST in Atlantic City, for Saturday night's HBO main event.

Forget about age factor: Hopkins vs Kovalev Preview

Sure Boxing Hall of Famer Bernard "The Alien" Hopkins takes on Sergey Kovalev in a rare unification bout in the light heavyweight division on Saturday night at the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City. This will be B-hop's comeback fight on HBO. Here's my Hopkins vs Kovalev Preview and Prediction.

Hopkins (55-6-2, KO 32) is two months shy from his 50th birthday on Jan. 15 next year. I don't want to elaborate further how old Hopkins is. But if you want to know more what is there and what is not there when Hopkins was born almost 50 years ago, please follow this link here.

[caption id="attachment_4436" align="alignright" width="300"] Hopkins NYC Workout/Hogan Photos[/caption]

Well, Hopkins, will again try to beat his own record as the oldest fighter to ever win a world championship. This distinction, he first set, when he defeated Jean Pascal at age 46. He surpassed that record when he also defeated Tavoris Cloud at age 48. On November 8, he will once again try to break his own record. But there's one man standing on that feat -- the Russian "Krusher" Kovalev.

Kovalev (25-0-1, KO 23) is one of the feared fighters of the sport. He possessed an eye popping 88 percent knockout percentage. The only dent on his record is a draw against Grover Young in 2011, due to accidental foul. Only two opponents heard the final bell against the 31 year old Kovalev. Darnell Boone and Karen Avetisyan were the two lucky fighters who were able reached the final round when Kovalev met them in 2010.

My Prediction

In my prediction, I tried to eliminate the age factor. Yes, Hopkins is old. I agree. But his age doesn't show in the ring. And Kovalev knows about it. "Fifty is just a number. I think nothing of his age. If he was old he would be retired, but he's still in there. He's not an old man, he's a young alien", says Kovalev during the Brooklyn media workout. Hopkins is always in a superb condition because of the discipline he imposed in his lifestyle. What I put more weight here, is his experience, his in-and-out-of-rule-book-tricks and of course his overall skill as a fighter. Hence, this bout is about Hopkins experience and ring savvies versus Kovalev's punching power and patience.

[caption id="attachment_4438" align="alignright" width="300"] Kovalev NYC Workout/Hogan Photos[/caption]

I'm not taking away Kovalev's skills as a fighter. He had a great amateur career. And if you want to know more about that click here. But certainly, his punching power is what made him one of the feared fighters in the sport. It's his punching power that carried him up to this point of his career. The same way goes to Hopkins in terms of his ring craftiness and defense.

Now, if the above factors collide at times, punching power can be disarm. Look how Chris Algiere disarmed Ruslan's Provodnikov's power. Look how Floyd Mayweather Jr. negated Marcos Maidana's power.

But the puncher has always the chance throughout the fight, as it takes only one punch to turn everything in favor of the puncher. Look at how Alexander Povetkin's power carried the night against a more athletic Takam. Look at Hasim Rahman's power froze Lennox Lewis.

This is what made this bout so intriguing, exciting and difficult to predict. But what to do this is just a prediction, then so be it, let me predict. Hopkins by decision.

Andrzej Fonfara, Tomoki Kameda secure wins on Showtime

Poland's Andrej Fonfara secured a win on a not-so-entertaining-fight on Saturday night, as he came back to the winning side of the game.

Fonfara (26-3, 15 KO) managed to outwork Doudou Ngumbu over 10 Rounds of somewhat less explosive encounter.

Actually, I expect something explosive from Fonfara against unknown Ngumbu. Remember that Fonfara surprised us in May by dropping the highly favorite and light heavyweight champion Adonis Stevenson with a solid right hand in the ninth round. But it was Ngumbu who almost surprised me.

In Round 5, I'm about to lift my butt on my couch when Ngumbu (33-6, 12 KO) landed a solid overhand right that momentarily rocked Fonfara. But Fonfara was quick to initiate the right thing to do; clinching Ngumbu till he clear the cobwebs. That right hand from Ngumbu wake Fonfara up in he succeeding rounds. It served as a warning that pushed Fonfara to step up the gas from his usual slow start. Fonfara, then dominated the fight with more output.

In the end, the scorecards reads: 97-93, 97-93, and 98-92 in favor of the 26 year old Fonfara.

Tomoki Kameda wins SD Alejandro Hernandez

Osaka Japan's Tomoki "El Mexicanito" Kameda retains title and remains undefeated also on Saturday night at UIC Pavilion, Chicago, Illinois, USA via split decision against his mandatory challenger, Mexican Alejandro Hernandez.

The scorecards reads: 115-113, 115-113 and 113-115 in favor of Kameda.

It was an action packed fight.

The defending champion looks comfortably leading and controlling the fight. But when the results were announced it was closer than expected. I thought Kameda won via unanimous decision.

Anyway a win is a win. No such thing as a bad win when it comes to boxing, because in the end a boxer will always be associated with his records.

Kameda (31-0, 19 KO) left eye swollen shut, but it did not bother him so much for the rest of the remaining rounds.

On the other hand, Hernandez (28-11-2, 15 KO) failed his third try for a world title. He has fought previously for championship at 112 and 115 pounds.