Jorge Linares seeks third world title

[caption id="attachment_4897" align="alignnone" width="500"] Ethan Miller/Getty Images[/caption]

VENEZUELAN STAR TO FACE JAVIER PRIETO IN TOKYO

LOS ANGELES (Dec. 29) Still eight months shy of his 30th birthday, Jorge "El Nino de Oro" Linares (37-3, 24 KOs) has the opportunity to become the youngest Venezuelan to win world titles in three divisions when he faces Mexico's Javier "Implacable" Prieto(24-7-2, 18 KOs) for the vacant WBC Lightweight World Championship on Tuesday, December 30 at the Metropolitan Gym in Tokyo, Japan.

Linares, a former featherweight and super featherweight world champion, has been undefeated for more than two years, winning six consecutive bouts, four by knockout. The 27 year old Barinas native and Tokyo resident defeated Nihito Arakawa (25-5-1, 16 KOs) via decision in a 2014 March title eliminator, and is currently ranked number one by the WBC. He kept busy by knocking out Ira Terry (26-13, 16 KOs) in two rounds in August. Now he's ready to take on the 27-year-old Prieto, who is unbeaten in his last 10 bouts and is ranked number two by the WBC.

Javier "Implacable" Prieto from Apatzingan, Michoacán, Mexico is the current WBC Silver Lightweight Champion and is eager to conquer the WBC Lightweight World Championship against Linares.  He is coming off 12-round draws against Ivan "Macanón"Cano (22-6-2, 15 KOs) in May and September. This will his first world title bout.

Linares vs. Prieto is a 12-round bout for the vacant WBC Lightweight World Championship, taking place at the Metropolitan Gym in Tokyo, Japan and promoted byAkihiko Honda's Teiken Boxing Gym in association with Ohachi Promotions.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, follow on Twitter atwww.twitter.com/ GoldenBoyBoxing, visit on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page and on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing.

Big fights in Japan to wrap up 2014: Rigondeaux, Narvaez, Yaegashi, more

Hey boxing fans! Before you start popping up your "Fighter of the Year" and whatever you think were the best among the best in 2014. You better wait for the outcome of those matches that will be held in Japan before the year ends. Maybe one of those bouts steal the "Fight of the Year" that's on your mind right now.

Guillermo Rigondeaux (14-0, 9 KO's) will be back in the ring against unheralded Hisashi Amagasa (28-4-2, 19 KO's) for Rigondeaux’s RING, WBO and WBA titles at the Bodymaker Colosseum, Osaka, Japan. This will be his second straight fight outside the US. Rigo will be coming in from a short night win over Sod Kokietgym in Macau last July. A fight that Rigo infamously won. The won seemingly was the product of a "cheap shot". Against Amagasa, I think Rigo should deliver something other than boxing clinic -- make the fight exciting -- to detach the word "boring" on his boxing style.

Take a look at the rest of scheduled matches that will be held in Osaka and Tokyo, Japan before the promising year 2015 comes.

Make sure you watch them all, while having your favorite beer on your couch waiting for the new year. For me, as a boxing fan, these fights have no match to any firecrackers ever made, as one of these bouts could be war!

Sunday, Dec. 28, 2014 Osaka, Japan

• Yuki Nonaka vs Charlie Ota – Junior middleweight, 10 Rounds

Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2014 Tokyo, Japan

• Omar Narvaez vs Naoya Inoue – Junior bantamweight, 12 Rounds


• Akira Yaegashi vs Pedro Guevara – Junior flyweight, 12 Rounds


• Jorge Linares vs Javier Prieto – Lightweight, 12 Rounds


• Ryo Matsumoto vs Rusalee Samor – Junior bantamweight, 12 Rounds


• Ryota Murata vs Jessie Nicklow – Middleweight, 10 Rounds


• Takuma Inoue vs Nestor Narvaez – Flyweight, 8 Rounds

Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2014, Osaka, Japan

• Guillermo Rigondeaux vs Hisashi Amagasa – Junior featherweight, 12 Rounds


• Katsunari Takayama vs Go Odaira – Strawweight 12 Rounds


• Kazuto Ioka vs Jean Piero Perez – Flyweight, 10 Rounds


• Sho Ishida vs Masato Morisaki – Junior bantamweight, 10 Rounds

Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2014, Tokyo, Japan

• Takashi Uchiyama vs Israel Perez – Junior lightweight, 12 Rounds


• Kohei Kono vs Norberto Jiminez – Junior bantamweight, 12 Rounds


• Alberto Rossel vs Ryoichi Taguchi – Junior flyweight, 12 Rounds division

Relevant fights await 2015!

The year 2014 is full of same-card-different-opponent bullshit match-ups. Two top fighters in the same division that suppose to fight each other, instead fight separate opponents in the same card. One example is the Danny Garcia-Rod Salka scrap. Boxing media criticized and rant about the match-up that ended as expected. Garcia blew Salka out in two rounds.

But 2015 promise something that we boxing fans should be happy about. Here are some interesting and relevant fights that await us in 2015.

Brandon Rios vs Mike Alvarado III

This is war! The first two encounter is a classic battle that I rate as the same level Gatti-Ward. Both men took each other's "O" in brutal fashion. On January 24 at 1st Bank Center in Broomfield, Colorado Rios and Alvarado will do it again for the third time. The first two fights were about protecting their undefeated records. This time is about getting back to the winning side of the game. Both men are in a "must-win" situation. Although Rios (32-2-1, 23 KO's) won against Chaves in his last fight, but he's unhappy about his DQ victory. He is looking for a solid victory over Alvarado this time. Alvarado (34-3, 23 KO's) is win less in his last two fights and could not afford to lose also this time. I expect another war come 24th January.

Sergey Kovalev vs Jean Pascal

The light heavyweight division is not as deep as the welterweight with talent. But what I like is that the top contenders were more than willing to face fellow top contenders. That of course except Adonis Stevenson. He avoided Kovalev. He is recognize by the Transnational Boxing Rankings Board as the light heavyweight champion. Stevenson even jump over the fence of another network just to avoid Kovalev who is now TBRB's number one contender. I salute, Kovalev (26-0-1, 23 KO's) and Hopkins though. "The Alien" despite his golden age has always desire to fight the best in his division. The same goes to Kovalev who wants only significant fights. As the result, Hopkins-Kovalev met up in the ring. Kovalev won. Now, the best available opponent for Kovalev by far is Jean Pascal (29-2-1, 17 KO's) who just is also considered one of the top 5 in this division. As a fight fan, we only want the best fighting the best.

Gennady Golovkin vs Martin Murray

Although this is not the fight I wanted for Gennady Golovkin (31-0, 28 KO's) because I wanted him fight the best out there in the middleweight division. I wanted a fight between Golovkin and Cotto who is now the division king after stopping the lineal champion Sergio Martinez. But Martin Murray (29-1-1, 12 KO's) is another solid contender who ranks among the top five. So, this is another exciting fight to watch out in February 21, 2015 in Monte Carlo, Monaco.

Wladimir Klitschko vs Bryant Jennings

After a fan-friendly fight against Kobrat Pulev,  Wladimir Klitschko (63-3, 54 KO's) wants a fight in the States. And on April 25, 2015 in Brooklyn, New York, most probably at the Barclays Center for a yet to signed opponent. But Klitschko's team is in deep negotiation with undefeated contender Bryant Jennings (19-0, 10 KO's) that we will see result in a couple of days.

Miguel Cotto vs Saul Alvarez

Although this fight is not sealed yet, as Miguel Cotto (39-4, 32 KO's) said in various reports that "all is negotiations, and there is nothing definite at this point”, but this fight is basically what team Alvarez is pushing. Alvarez (44-1-1, 31 KO's) needs a top marquee opponent in his quest to seize Cinco de Mayo fight date from Floyd Mayweather Jr., claiming that this date belongs to the Mexicans. Well, if there's no Floyd-Pac on May and if Cotto-Alvarez pushes through then my PPV money will be on Cotto-Alvarez.

Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs Manny Pacquiao

I'm hesitant to include this possible but still unclear match-up that we, as fans have been talking about for years now. But as a fan what can I do. This is what I hope for. This is what I want to see. So, I'm still hopeful it will happen in 2015. And both Mayweather (47-0, 26 KO's) and Pacquiao (57-5-2, 38 KO's) camp are at least open and not lock in to fight any other opponent at this point. There seemed to be serious on going negotiations. But I'm still in doubt that this fight will happen, not until both showed up for a press conference announcing that they will officially fight each other.

Meanwhile here's what Bob Raissman of NY Daily News regarding mega-fight negotiations:

Those doing the business of boxing are consumed with winning the negotiation, screwing the other guy at all costs. The battle to negotiate a mega fight is bloodier than what happens inside the ring. --  BOB RAISSMAN, NY Daily news

Khan vs Alexander Results: Amir Khan dominates Devon Alexander

[caption id="attachment_4802" align="alignnone" width="500"] Ethan Miller/Golden Boy/Golden Boy via Getty Images[/caption]

In Showtimes's featured bout, Amir Khan (30-3, 19 KO's) pulls out a dominant win over Devon Alexander (26-3, 14 KO's) during their 12 round welterweight showdown at the MGM Grand.

Khan who is a former lightweight champion has been the more accurate fighter, out landing Alexander in all punch stats. He's hand speed and combination punching was too much for Alexander to handle. Khan landed 54 percent of his power punches compared to Alexander's 32 percent. Khan landed 43 percent of total punches he thrown to Alexander's only 20 percent.

Khan's dominant victory almost a shutout on the scorecards. The scores were 119-109, 118-110 and 120-108.

The stake is big for the winner of this fight. Being the winner, Khan could be Floyd's next opponent, if Mayweather's Pacquiao fight negotiation failed.

"I really believe I earned my shot against the best fighter in the world, which is Floyd Mayweather," Khan said. "I believe he'll have problems with my speed, movement and accuracy. I'm going to leave it to my team and let's hope we get that fight."

Alexander had no excuses of the fight's outcome. He said that Khan was the "better man tonight".

"He was the better man tonight," Alexander said. "My coach told me to get off and I wasn't getting off. I could have caught him I just didn't do it tonight. I was supposed to follow the game plan, I was moving good but I just couldn't move forward and get off."

Under Cards recap:

• Keith Thurman vs Leonard Bundu


• Abner Mares vs Jose Ramirez


• Jermall Charlo KO 3 Lenny Bottai

Here are the rest of Khan vs Alexander results:

• Jermell Charlo UD 10 Mario Lozano - Junior Middleweight


• Errol Spence Jr. TKO 5 Javier Castro - Junior Middleweight


• Victor Ortiz TKO 3 Manny Perez - Welterweight 


• Yoshiro Kamegai TKO 4 Oscar Godoy- Junior Middleweight


• Beibut Shumenov RTD 5 Bobby Thomas Jr. - Cruiserweight

Khan vs Alexander Results: Keith Thurman decisions Leonard Bundu easily

[caption id="attachment_4823" align="alignnone" width="500"] Photo by Ethan Miller/Golden Boy/Golden Boy via Getty Images[/caption]

In the co-feature of the night, Keith Thurman (24-0, 21 KO's) keeps his undefeated record intact on Saturday night on Showtime against then undefeated Leonard Bundu (31-1-2 , 11 KO's) at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas.

Actually I patiently waited for the knockout to come. But Thurman failed to deliver that leads to the fight fans frustration present at the venue and turned cheers into boos half way to fight. I thought it would be a short night as Thurman scored a knockdown around 2:10 mark in the very first round. He sent Bundu down with a hard left hook. But the knockout that fans love about Thurman did not come, as he boxed around to outpoint Bundu with ease.

For me, it seemed that Thurman has been exposed a little bit of his weaknesses as an exciting fighter. He became extremely cautious and not letting his powerful hands go against unorthodox opponent who does well on shifting from left to right stance but with very limited punch output at age 40.

But a win is win.

"You can not knock everybody out...'" said Thurman.

the official scores were 120-107 on all three judges for Thurman's shutout victory.

But Thurman proved tonight that he can win easily using his boxing skills. He used distance and movement around the ring trying to evade counter punches.

 

 

Khan vs Alexander Results: Abner Mares is back with a bang! Retires Ramirez

[caption id="attachment_4826" align="alignnone" width="500"] Ethan Miller/Golden Boy/Golden Boy via Getty Images[/caption]

Abner Mares (28-1-1, 15 KO's) is back with impressive win tonight against Jose Ramirez (24-4-2, 15 KO's) in the second televised fight of the night at the MGM Grand Garden on Showtime

Mares scored a total of three knock downs. The first knockdown came at about 2:06 in the very first round. Mares sent down Ramirez with a series of body shots. It looked like out of balance on Ramirez part, and he got immediately obviously unhurt. The second knockdown took place in Round 3, as Mares unleashed flurries to the head and body while Ramirez was on the ropes. Although Ramirez not touching the canvas, the referee ruled a knockdown, 27 seconds remaining in round 3. It's just the ropes that keep Ramirez standing. The third knockdown came in the fifth round. Mares landed three-punch combo that sent Ramirez down hard. This time he's obviously hurt.

To Ramirez credit, although he suffered three knockdown total (actually it should be four as he took a knee after a right hook from Mares landed on his body in Round 4) but he's dangerous the entire night against Mares. He always came back strong every time he ate big left and right hooks upstairs and downstairs from Mares. He's bringing the fight to Mares and always pressing forward to the entire course of the fight.

But in Round 5, the big shots from Mares has taken its toll on Ramirez. After the knockdown in the fifth frame, it looked like the corner of Ramirez had seen enough. With the advice of Ramirez corner, the referee stopped the bout  giving Mares the victory.

Mares' asking for a rematch with his former sparring partner Jhonny Gonzalez who knock him out in the very first round during their 2013 featherweight world title fight. With the win, big things coming up for Mares next year!

Khan vs Alexander Results: Jermall Charlo blasts Lenny Bottai in 3

[caption id="attachment_4840" align="alignnone" width="500"] Photo by Ethan Miller/Golden Boy/Golden Boy via Getty Images[/caption]

In the first televised fight of the night, 24 year old undefeated Jermall Charlo stops Lenny Bottai in Round 3 with a vicious short left hook that ended the fight early.

Charlo (20-0, 16 KO's) retained his undefeated record on Saturday night at the MGM Grand and earned title fight for next year. Bottai (22-3, 9 KO's) was able to got up, after that short left hook, at the count of eight but in a very unsteady legs. The referee stopped the fight just in time Bottai's corner threw a towel.

"K9 I want you boy! I want you!", said Charlo during the interview after the fight.

Video: Floyd Mayweather breaks silence on Pacquiao fight

http://youtu.be/bf2jqnhOKXo

Video Credit: Showtime Boxing

Mayweather: We are ready. Let's make it happen. May 2. Mayweather versus Manny Pacquiao. Let's do it.

[caption id="attachment_4014" align="alignnone" width="500"] Photos From Esther Lin/Showtime[/caption]

Boxing's pound-for-pound best Floyd Mayweather Jr. (47-0, 26 KO's) called out his rival Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao (57-5-2, 38 KO's) for a May 2 showdown. This time with more details.

"We are ready. Let's make it happen. May 2. Mayweather versus Manny Pacquiao. Let's do it", says Mayweather Jr. in an interview on Friday with Showtime's Steve Farhood in San Antonio where Mayweather Promotions stage a show.

I would love to fight Manny Pacquiao. We tried to make the fight happen years ago; we had problems with random blood and urine testing. I just want to be on an even playing field. Now he's in a very, very tight situation. He's pay-per-view numbers are extremely low. He's desperate. I wanted that fight a long time ago. I'm just waiting on them." says Mayweather.

If Pacquiao wants the fight to happen and now Mayweather says he wants the fight to happen then what's the problem? Here's what Mayweather said.

Of course, we have to make the fight happen on Showtime pay-per-view, because 'Showtime Championship Boxing' is No. 1 and will remain No. 1. I'm the man. I'm here to stay. Floyd Mayweather is not ducking or dodging any opponent. Bob Arum is stopping the fight. We have been trying to make this fight happen behind the scenes for years now, but the fans and the people have been fooled because they have been listening to people just on one side. Now it's time for us to talk. We want the fight."

So, if Bob Arum is the problem, then why he's the problem? Because Mayweather hate him. He don't want a piece of Arum in this fight. We know pretty well why. So who's the problem?

So let's make this fight happen. Manny Pacquiao, Bob Arum, you guys have been ducking us for years," Mayweather said. "We're tired of you guys fooling the public, fooling the critics. You guys didn't want to take random blood and urine testing, so that's why it didn't happen. Then I offered you $40 million, then you didn't want to make the fight happen. You lost twice, now you coming back begging for the same money. That's not gonna happen. Let's make the fight happen for the people and the fans. Mayweather versus Pacquiao, May 2nd, Cinco de Mayweather."

With the above being Mayweather said, bottom line is:

• He wants the fight on May 2, 2015.


• He wants the fight to happen on Showtime.


• He will give less than $40 million to Pacquiao.

Do you think this fight will happen?

Weights: Bradley 146, Chaves 146.5

[caption id="attachment_4786" align="alignnone" width="500"] Photo Credit : Chris Farina - Top Rank[/caption]

Both fighters for the HBO/Top Rank Triple Header came in below the welterweight limit. Tim Bradley came in one pound under at 146 lbs. Deigo Chaves came in half pound under at 146.5 lbs. Bradley and Chaves will face on Saturday night at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.

Here are the weights of the rest of the fighters for HBO/Top Rank Triple Header

• Matt Korobov (24-0, 14 KO) 159.4 lbs vs Andy Lee (33-2, 23 KO) 159.8 lbs.


• Mauricio Herrera (21-4, 7 KO) 139.5 lbs. vs Jose Benavidez (21-0, 15 KO) 138 .5 lbs.

Weights: Khan 147, Alexander 147

[caption id="attachment_4782" align="alignnone" width="500"] Esther Lin/SHOWTIME[/caption]

Both fighters that headlines the Showtime/GBP quadruple header came in at the welterweight limit. Amir Khan weighed in at division's 147 lbs. His opponent Devon Alexander came in also at 147 lbs.

Here are the rest of the weights for the Showtime/GBP quadruple header

• Keith Thurman - 146 lbs vs Leonard Bundu - 146.5 lbs.


• Abner Mares - 127 lbs. vs Jose Ramirez - 130.5 lbs.


• Jermall Charlo - 154 lbs. vs Lenny Bottai - 154 lbs.


• Jermell Charlo - 153.5 lbs. vs Mario Lozano - 153 lbs.


• Errol Spence Jr. - 149.5 lbs vs Javier Castro - 151.5 lbs.


• Victor Ortiz - 146.5 vs Manny Perez - 146 lbs.


• Yoshihiro - Kamegai - 151 lbs. vs Oscar Godoy - 150 lbs.


• Beibut Shumenuv - 200 lbs. vs. Bobby Thomas Jr. 201 lbs.

Casimero faces Santos in Flyweight title eliminator on Fox Deportes and Televisa

IBF TITLE SHOT ON THE LINE IN MONTERREY ON DEC. 13

LOS ANGELES (Dec. 12) - A world title shot will be on the line at the Salon Las Palmas in Monterrey, Mexico, on Saturday, December 13, when Mexico City's Armando "Cobra" Santos (14-3-1, 8 KOs) faces Filipino star John Riel "Cuadro Alas"Casimero(20-2, 12 KOs) in a 12-round IBF Flyweight Title Eliminator that will air on FOX Deportes and Televisa.

In the co-main event, unbeaten Francisco "El Bandido" Vargas (20-0-1, 14 KOs) battles Guasave, Sinaloa, Mexico's Genaro "Duro" Camargo (39-15, 32 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight bout.

Also in action will be lightweight contender Roberto "Tito" Manzanarez (28-1, 24 KOs) and unbeaten prospect Adan "Speedy" Mares (12-0-1, 3 KOs).

Santos vs. Casimero, a 12-round IBF flyweight title elimination bout, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Canelo Promotions and sponsored by Mexico - Live It To Believe It!. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. CT and the FOX Deportes broadcast begins at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT and the Televisa broadcast airs at 10:30 p.m. CT on Canal 5.

Unbeaten in seven straight since 2011, 26-year-old Armando "Cobra" Santos (14-3-1, 8 KOs) lives up to his nickname with a style that can see him strike opponents down at any given time once the bell rings. A holder of the NABF, WBC USNBC, and IBF International titles at 112 pounds, the number four-ranked Santos has even bigger goals in mind for 2015, and if he defeats Casimero, he will move even closer to them.

Fighting out of Cebu City, 24-year-old John Riel Casimero (20-2, 12 KOs) is on a mission to regain the title he lost on the scales in May. The IBF flyweight champion since February of 2012, when he defeated Luis Alberto Lazarte, Casimero successfully defended his crown three times before he came in overweight for his bout against Mauricio Fuentes. After stopping Fuentes in a single round, Casimero now has a second chance to earn a shot at the belt he never lost in the ring.

Born in Tijuana and now fighting out of Mexico City, 2008 Olympian Francisco Vargas (20-0-1, 14 KOs) has had the biggest year of his career in 2014, and after notable wins over Abner Cotto and former world champion Juan Manuel Lopez, he has the opportunity to close out the year with another big win as he faces the always tough Camargo.

Just 27 years old, Guasave's Genaro "Duro" Camargo (39-15, 32 KOs) is one of the most active fighters in the sport today, and he's always ready to test himself against the best in the game. Winner of four of his last six bouts, this 10-year veteran can make a huge impact in his final bout of 2014 if he can defeat Vargas this weekend.

At 19, Roberto "Tito" Manzanarez (28-1, 24 KOs) has been blazing a trail through the lightweight division, winning seven straight fights and earning the WBC Youth Intercontinental title that he has successfully defended three times. Born in Phoenix, Arizona and now fighting out of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico; he is fresh from a third-round stoppage of Ricardo Castillo in August, Manzanarez will seek his fourth victory of the year on Saturday against Tijuana's Hector Velasquez (56-23-3, 38 KOs), a hard-hitting 39-year-old who always shows up to fight.

The brother of multiple-division world champion Abner Mares, Guadalajara's Adan "Speedy" Mares (12-0-1, 3 KOs) is a well-schooled boxer looking to take his game to the next level in 2015. But first, the 25-year-old must get past Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico's Miguel Angel Gonzalez (16-1, 13 KOs), a tough test who will push the rising star to the limit in Monterrey.

Tyson Cave gets robbed in US debut

This kind of boxing result really deserves a rant. And this is my rant: Tyson Cave  really gets robbed hard in his US debut. His brilliant performance of the art of hitting without getting hit was robbed in front of him with his eyes wide open on broad daylight lamps at the Pechanga Resort & Casino, Temecula, California.

Although on twitter, boxing fans and media were unhappy with Tyson Cave during the course of the fight.  They called him a runner... a dancer... I called him octopus-footed. But it doesn't mean that he is not winning the fight. I called him octopus-footed, which basically means means fleet-footed, because he really moves very well that he is dominating the fight, in fact he's toying Oscar Escandon. It's so one-sided fight in favor of Cave.

I hate watching Cave moved that well around the ring because it really... really made Escandon look so bad. Escandon did not have a chance against a moving Cave (actually caves should not move). That's why people on twitter were not happy for Cave. Of course, we want fight! We want action! If  Cave is not moving that well, for sure we will see a competitive fight.

Judges are humans too. They are for sure boxing fans too, that love so much of action in the ring. They might be disgusted too watching Cave toying Escandon. But their disgust should not transpire on their respective scorecards by punishing the man who did very well on hitting without getting hit!

Well, what about putting it this way: instead of blaming solely Cave for not making the fight exciting, why not ask Escandon. Why he was not able to corner a running man inside the 17 foot ring? Why he can't close the gap fight at close range and make the fight competitive?

Cave were throwing 4 to 6 unanswered combinations that ends with an upper cut and then changes angle or move from harms way before even Escandon retaliates. But it doesn't mean that all his punches landed. In fact most of them were blocked by Escandon's gloves, except those uppercuts that snapped Escandon's head back.

Escandon to his credit was there to fight. But his efforts were way... way... insufficient to win a single round, at least on my unofficial score. He's best punch was a looping hard right hands to the air. I mean really!

Cave's punches, activity, and ring generalship were enough to sweep all the rounds in my unofficial scorecards. But the three judges sees it differently. Raul Caiz Jr. might have mistaken Cave as Escandon and Escandon was Cave!!! Tony Crebs saw it as a very competitive fight Escandon winning. Naaahhh! Max DeLuca was able to see the real winner. This made Escandon as the winner via SD.

Here's the official scores per judge for Tyson Cave:

• Raul Caiz Jr. - 111-117


• Tony Crebs - 113-115


• Max DeLuca - 115-113

If you were not able to watch this fight better check out later. So that you'll understand what I'm ranting about.

Showtime/GBP quadruple header purses

Amir Khan will be getting less than one million dollar, $950,000 to be exact for his clash with Devon Alexander on Saturday night at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Khan (29-3, 19 KO's) who will headline the Showtime/GBP quadruple header is just getting less than half of what Timothy Bradley is getting in the HBO/Top Rank card. Alexander (26-2, 14 KO's) is getting $600,000.

The rest of the purses.

• Keith Thurman - $500,000


• Leonard Bundu - not yet filed with the commission.


• Abner Mares - $250,000


• Jose Ramirez - $15,000


• Jermall Charlo - $50,000


• Lenny Bottai - not yet filed with the commission.

HBO/Top Rank triple header purses

Former welterweight champion Timothy Bradley headlines the HBO/Top Rank triple header at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas against Argentine Diego Chaves. Bradley (31-1, 12 KO's) will received $2 million as per Dan Rafael on ESPN.com, based on contracts filed with the Nevada State Athletic Commission. But, being the "B-side" Chaves (23-2, 19 KO's) will make only $35,000 plus the TV upside in Argentina.

Here are the rest of the purses for HBP/Top Rank triple header.

• Andy Lee - $225,000


• Matt Korobov - $160,000


• Mauricio Herrera - $200,000


• Jose Benavidez Jr. - $90,000

Khan vs Alexander: Media workout and Grand Arrival photos

Photo Credit: Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

David Lemieux vs. Gabriel Rosado final press conference quotes & photos

[metaslider id=4705]DAVID LEMIEUX, NABF Middleweight Champion

"It's good to be back in Brooklyn. I'm very excited. This is a great opportunity for both of us fighters.

"I expect the best Gabriel Rosado when I get in the ring with him. I'm not worried because it's going to be the best of Lemieux.

"This is a big opportunity to be headlining on HBO. I'm not going to miss my shot. I'm going to leave everything in the ring and I will not leave disappointed.

"We've been working on a lot of things the last few years and now we're getting to where we want to be. This is the best camp I've had in my career.

"I'm here from Montreal and I'm here to represent and give you guys the best show and a great night of boxing before the holidays."

GABRIEL ROSADO, Middleweight Contender

"There's something different about coming from Philly. Any man who steps into the ring is brave, but something about Philly fighters, we're willing to die in the ring.

"I had a great training camp, I have a tremendous team. We worked on a lot of different things. We're coming off the Bryan Vera knockout so I really feel like I have the momentum.

"Lemieux is a strong guy who is hungry, but I know this is my opportunity and this is my time.

"Having been in every situation, I know what I need to do. I can't blame the politics, I just looked into myself and made myself more focused and more disciplined. I'm extremely happy about this opportunity to put on a great show.

"I always thank the fans because I'm only relevant because of fans. The fans have always showed love and always showed up. On Saturday I'm going to give the fans my all so they know I appreciate them.

"By the end of Saturday, I wont be that tough journeyman, I'll be a star."

HUGO CENTENO JR., Undefeated Middleweight Contender

"I had a great training camp. It was eight tough weeks. I started training with Gennady Golovkin to prepare him for his fight. I've trained extremely hard and have no excuses. Come Saturday night, I'll be ready.

"I talk with my fists so James can say what he wants. It's easy to talk before you get hit in the face."

JAMES DE LA ROSA, Middleweight Contender

"I hope on December 6 Hugo is ready to fight and doesn't get any little abrasions. I don't want him to have to tell the doctor he can't see.

"I hope he's ready to fight Saturday night because it's on."

THOMAS DULORME, Junior Welterweight Prospect

"I'm very happy to be here. I feel like I'm at home here in Brooklyn with all the support that I get here.

"This was a tough camp, It was a good camp. I'm ready to go and I'm ready for Hank.

"I'm not a big talker, so I'll let Hank talk all he wants. On Dec. 6 at Barclays Center I'll do my talking in the ring.

"This is going to be a great fight, get your seat ready here or at home and get ready for a great fight."

HANK LUNDY, Junior Welterweight Prospect

"It's been a hell of a camp, I have two of the best trainers in the world with me. Everything you read and everything you see about me is the real deal.

"I'm not running, I'm here to put on a fight, I'm putting on a show. I'm the real deal.

"When you have a guy like me coming from Philadelphia, I try to imitate these great guys like Bernard Hopkins and Gabriel Rosado.

"These two belts, you best believe they're coming back to Philadelphia."

ZACHARY OCHOA, Undefeated Super Lightweight Prospect

"I made my 97-year-old grandfather cry when he saw me on NY1 yesterday.

"I want to thank Barclays Center for helping those kids in Brooklyn because I used to be one of them.

"It's a beautiful thing to bring boxing back to Brooklyn and I hope we keep it going."

MARC RAMSAY, Lemieux's Trainer

"We are one thousand percent sure that Saturday's fight is going to be amazing for the fans. What you will remember is that you watched David Lemieux make his U.S. debut.

"We had a very tough training camp and David is ready to show you what he can do."

JESSE REID, Rosado's Trainer

"This is a real pleasure, I looked at Gabe when he fought Gennady Golovkin and I was amazed by what I saw, which was a Johnny Tapia. I saw a young man who was learning the hard way.

"He was taking on fights and showing people the heart he has, but he also had a great boxing ability that god gave him. I don't think he realized the talent he has.

"Rosado has a great team, I've worked with a lot of different trainers, but we really have a tremendous team put together.

"He's going to show people another Bernard Hopkins or Johnny Tapia so look out."

BERNARD HOPKINS, Golden Boy Promotions Partner and Future Hall of Famer

"I would like to let everybody know that fights like these are a custom. We are putting on the best fights, the most competitive fights. This is what we want to do. Going into 2015 this is what we will see more of.  We will continue to sincerely do the best to have the best fighters face the best.

"The tickets for this fight are extremely affordable for the caliber of fighters and of fights. This is an early holiday present from Golden Boy Promotions.

"The fighters you see right now might not be the pay-per-view fighters of today, but these are the fighters who are fighting for that position and it starts this Saturday."

ERIC GOMEZ, Senior VP of Golden Boy Promotions

"We're very happy to be working with Barclays Center, they are committed to championship boxing and this card is no different.

"Gabriel Rosado is taking on the very dangerous David Lemieux. You don't want to blink because Lemieux has power in both hands. Gabe Rosado has taken on the best in the business.

"When we put together these big cards we always put together those big competitive undercard fights. We have great prospects from all over the country fighting on the undercards. These guys are the champions of tomorrow.

"James De La Rosa is coming off of a big win against Alfredo Angulo and now he's going to take on one of the top prospects in Hugo Centeno Jr., who is here to test his skills at this level.

"Hank Lundy and Thomas Dulorme is a fight with two guys who are top fighters in their division so you don't want to miss that one."

CAMILLE ESTEPHAN, President of Eye of the Tiger Management

"It's a great honor and privilege to be here. I think boxing wins with this card, this is where boxing is at it's best, when we have competitive cards like this.

"I really don't think it's a 50-50 fight, I don't think people know. Rosado is a great way to find out if David Lemieux is for real.

"Saturday night David will take the opportunity to become a superstar. We've done everything we have to do every single day and I'm so proud of David. There are no shortcuts.

"We have so many great coaches, including Marc Ramsay who is a great person and great coach who is helping boxing in Canada.

"We know what David is all about, but you will all find out on Saturday night.  Don't miss this one and don't blink."

GARY SHAW, President & CEO of Gary Shaw Productions

"Hank said that on his side there is blood, sweat and tears. On Dulorme's side it's blood, sweat and bling, because we are going to walk out of here with both titles.

"Dulorme is a great fighter and I believe he is going to be the next 140-pound champion of the world. He will do his talking in the ring. The single most important thing is that he's not a trash talker, he's just a fighter."

JIMMY BURCHFIELD SR., President & CEO of CES Boxing

"Fights like these are what boxing is all about, it's the number one sport in the world and we have to keep making new stars.

"Every fight on this card is going to be amazing.

"Hank Lundy has added two major league trainers to his camp, in Barry Hunter and Mike Stafford. I want to thank them for helping the sport of boxing.

"Hank Lundy has been waiting his turn, we've traveled everywhere with Hank Lundy, because we've had to. The bigger the fight is, this is where the Philadelphia boxer comes out of him. He's what TV wants, because he's going to give his heart."

BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Barclays Center

"We are really excited about hosting another big night of boxing at Barclays Center. Golden Boy continues to invest in bringing great boxing to Brooklyn.

"Zachary Ochoa, we've heard a lot about him, he's a big personality who's been training on the Williamsburg Bridge so many of us have seen him going back and forth.

"In just over 24 months, Barclays Center has become the heart of boxing on the east coast. Many great fighters became great champions here at Barclays Center and we are very proud of that.

"We think that next year will be the biggest yet for us. We want to be in the big event business and we want to bring the biggest events to this venue. We will bring the best of boxing to the borough of Brooklyn."

DAVID BERLIN, New York State Athletic Commission

"New York is key in so many ways and with it's rich boxing tradition we are once again privileged to host fighters from all around the world.

"Saturday's card is here with the spectacle of a big fight card, but my first thought about this card is that these are all hard, competitive and evenly matched fights that fight fans want to see.

"Saturday night six fighters have a chance to make their mark and make their mark on the big stage."

Lemieux vs Rosado photos and quotes

[metaslider id=4679]DAVID LEMIEUX, NABF Middleweight Champion

"We are very well aware of Rosado's tendencies and his capabilities and we did everything we had to in the gym to prepare for this fight. Rosado's got a lot on his plate.

"Nothing ever brought me down. I believe in destiny and I never quit and here I am with the best around me, you've just got to put in the time, the effort, the blood, the tears and the sweat. It's all a dance and you've got know the right steps to get back in the ring. You've got be ready for it and willing to accept change.

"I'm very understanding of my power and once I start landing it's going to be hell for Rosado and I know it.

"Myself and my entourage, I owe it to them and everybody around me to perform well. Even though you're in the ring by yourself it's not like you're fighting alone. I fight for my kids and to put food on the table. I fight for my manger who has invested in me, who believes in me...I am confident in my abilities and I want prove I can do whatever I want.

"My career is about much more than winning a belt. I want to make the youth follow in my footsteps. I want to be a good example for the young guys coming up in boxing. I have a good story. I could have easily went out and given up and been a bum.

"I used to get into fights in the street and get into trouble with cops but I quickly learned discipline. I didn't want to be kicked out of school which meant I'd be kicked out of the gym...You've got to understand you can teach the young people to follow in those footsteps. I have a bit of bigger plan for myself."

GABRIEL ROSADO, Middleweight Contender

"I feel strong, I feel fast...My new trainer Jesse Reid has lots of experience He's trained 25 world champions in his career so I think the experience he has will help.

"The fans keep me in the game. That's what keeps me relevant. I want to get this win for the fans. I want to show them I do pay attention, I do read my Twitter and my Instagram. I can't reply to all of them but I see it and I do appreciate it.

"I started boxing late, at 18-years-old but I was always a fan of the sport. I have posters all over my room and I when I decided to be a fighter I envisioned it.

"I believe in experience as a backbone. If I use my ring smarts and experience, I think this could end early.

"In this fight I think the fans are going to see a lot more skill. I'm going to use my ring intelligence...you're going to see speed, power. It's going to be great."

HUGO CENTENO JR., Undefeated Middleweight Contender

"This my first time here in New York and I love it. It feels like home.

"HBO is working with Golden Boy again and it feels great to be given that opportunity on such a big stage. I'm exited about it.

"My dad used to box when he was younger and got into a motorcycle accident and he wasn't able to continue his career and that's what got me into watching fights, we would watch Tuesday night fights as a kid. I started when I was seven and the rest is history.

"My main strategy in the ring is boxing, but I can bang if I need to. I'm taller than most of my opponents but if it comes down to it and we have to slug it out, I can do that too."

JAMES DE LA ROSA, Middleweight Contender

"My goal is to take his heart as a fighter, I feel it's not my discretion to choose whether I can fight or not. I'm going to fight until I can't see-, doesn't matter if I get cuts or not. I'm here to put on a show.

"I never back out of a fight. I've heard he's backed out of a couple different fights...I've fought a few undefeated fighters. It feels better to take someone's '0' and that's what's going to happen on Saturday.

"People were saying I was going to get knocked out my last fight against Alfredo Angulo and that I didn't stand a chance and that just fuels me. It brings more fuel to the fire. I trained hard for what I wanted and it just pushes me to show people that I can.

"I feel good and I'm ready to conquer Barclays Center like I conquered the MGM, I'm really excited."

HANK LUNDY, Junior Welterweight Contender

"I'm excited and I'm ready to go. Dulorme is a pretty basic fighter who I'm going to take care of.

"Dulorme uses a lot of fundamentals and basic things. But you need more than that to beat Hank Lundy.

"It's going to be a big statement and we're going to do it in a big way. Afterwards I want Danny Garcia, Philly vs. Philly we have to do it.

"I'm an old school guy and I'm going to show everybody that on Saturday.

"Hammerin' Hank is coming to put on a show. If you've been a fan from day one you know I'm coming to bring the house down."

EDDIE GOMEZ, Super Welterweight Contender

"I'm excited to return to Barclays. I started off the year January 30th, I fought Daquan Arnett on the co main event of Victor Ortiz and Luis Collazo and I'm ready to go and close out the year in Barclays.

"I learned a lot from my last fight. More of the work was on my boxing skills. Mentally, I wasn't ready for my last fight but I still went in there and did what I had to do. I didn't get the victory but for this one I'm 100 percent clear minded and ready to go in there.

"After this fight I'm excited to spend time with my baby, My newborn daughter. I just got a baby girl and my drive, it's just there more. Before it was just for me but now I have do it for me and my daughter to make sure we're good.

"I just want to go in there and show off my boxing skills and show what I've learned. I'm not really looking for the knockout...you never know until you get in there though, if it comes it comes but if I have to go the distance I'll go the distance."

ZACHARY OCHOA, Undefeated Super Lightweight Prospect

"Every time you fight in front of your home fans in your home arena it always gives you that extra push because you don't want to let them down but it doesn't matter anywhere I go, I could be fighting in a desert, I'm always going to push.

"My game plan is go out there, do what I do and fight the way 'Zungry' fights and dominate.

"Training camp has been going great. I can't wait for the weigh in, I can't wait to eat, I can't wait to get in the ring and hit this guy. I'm not anxious, I'm just real chill and happy with the way everything is going."

BERNARD HOPKINS, Golden Boy Partner and Future Hall of Famer

"This is going to be a great fight, I promise you it will not go the distance, one way or the other.

"It's an old saying, but 'styles make fights'. Both guys are going to let it go in there.

"The Barclays Center fans are in for something great. New Yorkers want them to put on a show and they will not disappoint.

" People want to see the fighters--they want to see Gabe. I've been watching and his Instagram has almost tripled each day. He's a guy that puts his heart out there and comes to fight, and he will fight anybody.

"They may think Gabe is the opponent but then they realize, 'wait a minute,' they're in a real fight. That there is loss and his gain. That's why Gabe is being loved."

Can Jesse Reid help Rosado get back to the W side?

Gabriel Rosado wanted to move to that "next level". He hired Jesse Reid as his new trainer for his fight against David Lemieux (32-2, 30 KO's) on Saturday night at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

It's been ages since Gabriel Rosado won a fight. The last fight he fought wherein his hands raised was on September 2012 against Charles Whittaker. That was more than two years. Now, can Jesse Reid guide Rosado back to the winning column? This question will be answered on Saturday night and I'm excited.

Rosado dropped his long time trainer Billy Briscoe who trained him for about ten years. But according to Rosado it was "difficult" and that Billy is like family to him.

It was difficult, but the thing is that me and Billy, we're like family and when I brought it to Billy's attention, what he told me is he felt that if that's what I feel that I need to do to progress, he was all in and he said it was fine.

[caption id="attachment_4660" align="alignright" width="300"] Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]

Rosado assured that they parted ways on a good note. "We parted ways on a good note; I spoke with him not so long ago, a couple-probably about last week" says Rosado.

Rosado (21-8, 13 KO's) is 0-4 from his last four fights. He got two knockout losses against middleweight top guns -- Gennady Golovkin and Peter Quillin in 2013. A decision lost also to J'Leon Love that was later overturned. Love found positive for banned diuretics.

Although Rosado has not won since 2012, but he's always fun and entertaining to watch regardless who is in the opposite corner. Rosado's always there to fight. He has a heart of a champion. But it is obvious that there should be something that must be improved in order for him to move in that “next level”. On top of that he’s also a bleeder. Cut had kept him away from world title.

[Read also: http://theboxingdiary.com/2013/10/cut-keeps-gabriel-rosado-away-world-title.html

I'm excited to see what improvements Reid can incorporate on Rosado's limited skills and as a fighter in general. Rosado told that he's having a great camp and he's ready to roll. "I'm having a great camp; I'm excited about this fight. This is the last week of sparring and I'm just ready to roll" says Rosado.

Jesse Reid is one of the best trainers in the world. He's trained 25 World Champions and its funny how it just worked out."

Lamon Brewster, Roger Mayweather, Johnny Tapia, Hector Camacho and Paul Spadafora have trained under Jesse Reid at some point in their careers.

Videos: Khan, Alexander, Thurman

When I walked into the gym for the first time you could hear the bags being punched, you could smell the sweat and the blood. It felt like home." - Amir Khan

"I made it my point to become something in life ... A lot of people didn't make it out, but I did." - Devon Alexander

Getting knockouts and creating knockouts, that's what 'One Time' is all about" - Keith Thurman

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.