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Saturday, February 28, 2015

Tyson Fury: I want Klitschko next

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After a dominating performance on Saturday night, the big man from UK, Tyson Fury says, "I want Klitschko next".


Fury (24-0, 18 KO) dominated Christian Hammer (17-4, 10 KO) in a stay-working fight. After the the eighth round, the fight was stop when Hammer's corner stopped the contest.

Wladimir Klitschko, the heavyweight champion that held most of the aphabet titles, will be fighting back in the States against American Bryant Jennings. The fight will be held at the Madison Square Garden in New York.

It will remains to be seen if Klitschko will fight Fury for what it seems to be a big show for both big men, especially if the fight will be in the UK.

But before he could even make his decision, he should get past first Jennings who is a tough contender and undefeated in 19 fights.

 

Friday, February 27, 2015

Alfonso Gomez returns against Yoshihiro Kamegai on March 20

Lopez vs Coleman

Mexico's former World title contender Alfonso Gomez headlines March 20 Golden Boy Live! event against Japanese breakout star Yoshihiro Kamegai at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, Indio, Ca


LOS ANGELES (Feb. 27) - Golden Boy Promotions returns to its Coachella Valley home at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino on March 20 with another exciting Golden Boy Live! event.  Headlining the night, former world title contender Alfonso Gomez (24-6-2, 12 KOs) of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico takes on Japanese breakout starYoshihiro Kamegai (25-2-1, 22 KOs) in an exciting 10-round super welterweight bout set to air live on FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes.

In the evening's co-main event Santa Ana, Calif. slugger Ronny Rios (23-1, 10 KOs) is scheduled for a 10-round featherweight bout against Mexicali's Jesus "Kalaka" Navarro (23-9-1, 16 KOs) and former Irish national championship fighter Jamie "The Nuisance" Kavanagh (17-1-1, 8 KOs) will compete in an eight-round televised lightweight match against an opponent yet to be named. In the non-televised undercard, the undefeated Abraham Lopez (17-0, 12 KOs) of La Puente, Calif. will risk his perfect record in an eight-round featherweight contest against Mexico's Juan Carlos "El Pez" Martinez (20-15-1, 7 KOs) and Albert "Baby Dynamite" Herrera (9-10-1, 5 KOs) of Riverside, Calif. will fight in a six-round welterweight brawl against a yet to be announced opponent.

Kamegai vs. Gomez is a 10-round super welterweight bout promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra and Mexico - Live It To Believe It!. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. and the first bell rings at 5:30 p.m. The FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes broadcast airs live at 11:00 p.m. ET /8:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the event, priced at $25, $35, and $45, will go on sale today, Friday, February 27 at 10:00 a.m. PT at the Fantasy Springs Box Office, by calling (800) 827-2946 or online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

Mexico-native and California transplant Alfonso Gomez rose to recognition in the U.S. while competing on the hit reality TV show "The Contender" on NBC in 2004. He ranked third of the show's 16 fighters that were competing for a one million dollar cash prize. Gomez is an intense fighter who has taken on some of the toughest fighters in the sport, Shawn Porter, Canelo Alvarez, Miguel Cotto and Jesus Soto Karass. Most recently, Gomez won via unanimous decision over Ed Paredes at the Hard Rock Hotel Casino, Las Vegas in July and hopes to add another win to his record when he meets Kamegai on March 20.

Born in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan, Yoshihiro Kamegai began his professional career nearly 10 years ago and quickly became known as a fast and sly slugger, scoring knockout after knockout. He made his U.S. boxing debut in 2011, securing a victory over Hector Munoz at the MGM Grand and most recently scored a knockout victory over Oscar Godoy in December at the same venue. Kamegai, a relative newcomer in the U.S. boxing scene, first captured the American audience and critics' attention when he fought two-division world titlist Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero in a vicious brawl last June that garnered considerable 'Fight of the Year' interest. Kamegai will make his sixth U.S. appearance on March 20 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in his toughest match to date against former world title contender Alfonso Gomez.

Ronny Rios made his professional debut six years ago and has quickly racked up wins and a tough reputation along the way. A familiar face at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, Rios has won all but his most recent surprising loss in a vicious battle against Robinson Castellanos at the venue. He makes his return March 20 with great determination and hope to show his fans and boxing critics that he is a mainstay in the sport.

Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico's Jesus "Kalaka" Navarro is a seasoned fighter ready to take on Rios on March 20.  A professional since 2006, the Mexican brawler has had a successful career in his native country and is now making his second appearance in the U.S. after facing contenders like Julio Barraza, Jesus Lopez, and Francisco C De Vaca.  In his first fight of 2015, Navarro hopes to add another win to his record and get back on track to a title match.

Irish national champion Jamie "The Nuisance" Kavanagh has a natural talent and knack for the sport, having competed since age 11 only a year after he first set foot in the ring. After racking up medals in international competitions, Kavanagh made his way to the U.S. and made his professional debut at Madison Square Garden in May 2010, with an impressive win over William Ware after just two rounds. 2014 was a good year for Kavanagh as he secured quick wins against Andres Navarro and Michael Clark and hopes to continue the winning streak when he makes his third appearance at Fantasy Spring Resort Casino on March 20.

Featherweight rising star, Abraham Lopez, of La Puente, Calif., first laced up the gloves at age six, and hasn't put them down since. Lopez, started off his professional career in 2008 with a first round technical knockout of Albert Soto and continues to thrill fight fans with his impressive style.  Most recently the undefeated fighter faced Gabriel Tomlmajyan winning via unanimous decision on March 16.  On March 20, Lopez will put his undefeated record on the line once again in hopes to one day get a shot at a world title.

Born and raised in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, Juan Carlos "El Pez" Martinez is a seasoned fighter still looking for his shot at a title.  Having fought over 36 fights in his career and most recently facing contenders like Edner Cherry, Alejandro Perez and Jose Pedraza, "El Pez" has proven to be a feared contender in the sport. Going the distance in most of his fights, Martinez has the experience and the stamina to give anyone a tough fight and onMarch 20, Martinez hopes to out-box La Puente's Abraham Lopez.

Riverside, Calif. native Albert "Baby Dynamite" Herrera is a super welterweight prospect looking to add a win to his record when he returns to the ring on March 20 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. A professional since 2009, Herrera has fought some of the division's toughest fighters including current world champion Demetrius Andrade and tough contenders Alan Sanchez, Javier Molina, Thomas Dulorme and Aaron Martinez.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.FOXSports.com/FOXSports1,www.FOXDeportes.com, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @FOXSports, @FOXSports1, @FOXDeportes and, become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page, www.facebook.com/FOXDeportesand visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing.

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Will Tomlinson Los Angeles Media Work-Out Quotes & Photos

[caption id="attachment_5199" align="alignnone" width="650"]IMG_0135 Photo: Golden Boy Promotions[/caption]

LOS ANGELES (Feb. 25) - Australian standout and NABF and WBO international junior lightweight title challenger "Wild" Will Tomlinson hosted a Los Angeles media work-out at Westside Boxing Club on Tuesday, Feb. 24 before his championship bout against Francisco "El Bandido" Vargas in San Antonio, Texas on March 12. The title fight will also be televised live on HBO Latino® Boxing.

Here is what Tomlinson and his trainer Nicolas Robledo had to say about training camp and his hopes for fight night on March 12.

"WILD" WILL TOMLINSON, Junior Lightweight Contender: 

"This bout is going to get me a step closer to the direction I want to go, which is fighting for a world title. Vargas is ranked by the WBO and the WBC and a win over him will get me a shot at those ratings.

"The sanctioning bodies know who I am and a win over Vargas will remind everyone where I belong. I will back amongst the best.

"You are only as good as your last fight and good opportunities don't come by very often. When they do, you have to grab them with both hands and capitalize on the moment.

"Vargas is going to be there to fight he is going to be in front of me and I welcome that, his style suits me. I want him to throw punches because he is going to get hit as well. I believe I will be throwing the faster, sharper punches.

"I am going to control the pace of the fight, the movements and I am not going to let Vargas recklessly work me down. I am going to hit him hard and I am going to make him realize he is fighting someone that can assert his strength and power.

"I am going to be fighting proudly for all my fans in Australia, all the Latino fans, all the American fans. I look forward to introducing them to "Wild" Will and putting on a good show on March 12."

Nicholas "Nico" Robledo, Tomlinson's Trainer: 

"We know Francisco Vargas is a very talented forward fighter that comes to fight and throws a lot of punches.  We are going to stay focused on our countering and attacking.

"Our main goal is to counter Vargas' punches. We have trained hard for him to be prepared for Vargas's style of fighting.  Will is a puncher and loves to fight; he is going to put to on a great show.

"Will is fast.  His speed is going to be a contributor to his win on March 12.

"We are fighting for titles, and this is a big fight for Will.  He will put on a great show on March 12 and leave everything in the ring.  His strength and his desire to win will win over the fans in San Antonio."

(Photos: Golden Boy Promotions)

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Tuesday, February 24, 2015

Lucas Matthysse vs Ruslan Provodnikov set on April 18



LOS ANGELES (Feb. 24) - A sure-fire 'Fight of the Year' candidate will come early as former World Champions Lucas "La Maquina" Matthysse and Ruslan Provodnikov, two of boxing's hardest punchers, take the stage in a 12-round junior welterweight showdown on Saturday, April 18 at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, NY. Banner Promotions, Golden Boy Promotions in association with Arano Boxing announced today the clash of these two fearsome fighters that will generate what is sure to be an all-action fight to remember and a treat all fight fans are excited for. The bout with be televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.

"I'm glad that this fight is finally done," said Ruslan Provodnikov. "This is the fight I have been waiting for a long time. I think that this fight will be nominated for either 'Fight of the Year' or 'Knockout of the Year'."

"I only want the biggest fights against the best fighters and this fight between Provodnikov and I will surely be 'Fight of the Year'," said Lucas Matthysse. "Provodnikov is a warrior that never stops throwing punches and his style suits me very well. I'm confident that I will win, and since Danny Garcia doesn't want to fight me again, this fight will prove that I am one of the best fighters in the world."

"One-punch knockout power. Lightning-fast action. A likely world title shot to the winner - this bout has 'Fight of the Year' written all over it," said Oscar De La Hoya, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions. "This is a fight that fans have been clamoring for since these warriors were last in action, and Golden Boy Promotions is proud to deliver it to the fans worldwide."

"I'm very excited about the fight between Ruslan Provodnikov and Lucas Matthysse," said Arthur Pelullo, President of Banner Promotions. "This has the making of Corrales - Castillo all over again. This is the most fan-friendly and television-friendly fight in a long time. Both Ruslan and Lucas are real warriors, and it's a fight that both fighters wanted so it was very easy to make. Working with Oscar De La Hoya and Eric Gomez has been a pleasure.

"A dream match comes together when two men fight who are seemingly each other's worst nightmare and that's a litmus test this fight passes," said Peter Nelson, HBO Sports vice president of programming. "On April 18, HBO Boxing After Dark will present Argentine Lucas Matthysse against Russian Ruslan Provodnikov in a fight promising to be so highly combustible that just the lights turning on should set the ring ablaze."

"The Provodnikov Matthysse matchup is destined to be one of the must-see fights of the year and we're looking forward to hosting another exciting night of boxing at Turning Stone," said Ray Halbritter, Oneida Nation Representative and Nation Enterprises CEO. "In less than two years, we've hosted 15 nationally televised fights, distinguishing our resort as premier destination for world-class boxing."

"Ruslan is going to put up the great fight we want for Matthysse and will show that he is the best fighter in the division," said Mario Arano, manager of Matthysse. "Provodnikov is an uncompromising fighter, that comes to fight and his style will suit Lucas. We would like to thank Oscar De La Hoya, Golden Boy Promotions and HBO for making this fight possible. Fans will be excited to watch this fight and will not be disappointed."

"I want to say thank you to Banner Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions on making this fight possible," said Vadim Kornilov, manager of Provodnikov. "I wish there were more promoters in the sport that are prepared to have their fighters take a risk and make the best fights for the sport. Usually the fights that everybody wants to see don't happen due to reasons beyond the understanding of the fans, and it should not be that way."

Considered by most to be boxing's pound-for-pound hardest puncher, Trelew, Chubut, Argentina's Lucas "La Maquina" Matthysse (36-3, 34 KOs) has the numbers and high-profile victims to prove it. Having cut through the super lightweight division with his iron fists for years and an owner of 13 knockouts in his last 13 wins, the 32-year-old has taken out several of the sport's big names. Humberto "Zorrita" Soto, Lamont Peterson, DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley, Danny "Swift" Garcia and John Molina Jr., have all suffered loses to Matthysse, while earning him the interim WBC World title at 140 pounds in the process. Now looking to reign over a new division at 147 pounds, "La Maquina" has picked the toughest available foe to test him in Russian powerhouse Provodnikov.

Dubbed the "Siberian Rocky" for his aggressive attack and unyielding will to win, Beryozovo, Russia native Ruslan Provodnikov (24-3, 17 KOs) has earned himself fight fans around the globe for his humble nature outside the ring and ferocious intensity inside the ropes. An eight-year professional, Provodnikov followed up a stellar amateur career with an even more impressive campaign in the professional game. He has had notable wins over several top foes including a 'Fight of the Year' bout with Timothy Bradley in 2013 and a 10th round stoppage over Mike Alvarado in 2013 that yielded him the WBO Super Lightweight World title. In his last bout in November, Provodnikov won a fifth round stoppage over former World Champion Jose Luis Castillo, and now on April 18 he continues his quest for a welterweight title against Matthysse.

Matthysse vs. Provodnikov is a 12-round junior welterweight bout presented by Banner Promotions, Golden Boy Promotions in association with Arano Boxing Promotions and is ponsored by Corona Extra and Mexico, Live it To Believe It!.

Monday, February 23, 2015

Golovkin stops gallant Murray in Round 11, fights again in May or June

Golovkin vs Murray Results

As expected by boxing observers, Gennady Golovkin delivered a knockout victory over tough-as-nails Martin Murray in Monte Carlo on Saturday night. Golovkin continued his knockout winning streak to 19 in demolishing Murray.


Golovkin (32-0, 29 KO's) dropped Murray twice in the fourth round and once in the 10th round. In Round 11, referee Luis Pabon pulled out the plug to save Murray from further beating. With the impressive win Golovkin plans to fight again in May or June. He's pursuing for a unification bout against lineal middleweight champion, Puerto Rican star, Miguel Cotto. And if the fight will happened, it would be back in the States; possibly in New York's Madison Square Garden.

Matin Murray (29-2-1, 12 KO) despite being stopped, has nothing to be ashamed of. He lasted more than any other fighter Golovkin defeated in his 18 straight knockout victories.

Admiration was overflowing in social media for Murray's tough performance against the most feared fighter in the sport today. And Murray replied to his fans early Monday on twitter. "[I] still don't know what it feels like to get a World Title but I know it won't feel as good as this!" Murray said referring to his family in the picture embedded in his tweet.

Sunday, February 22, 2015

Abraham retains title vs Smith, no controversy this time

[caption id="attachment_5166" align="alignnone" width="650"]Abraham vs Smith II Results: Martin Rose/Getty Images[/caption]

Arthur Abraham's proper pacing, controlled aggression and power advantage carried the night for the 35 year old veteran. Abraham won via unanimous decision in his rematch with Paul Smith at the O2 World Arena, Kreuzberg, Berlin, Germany on Saturday night. The scores were 117-111, 117-111 and 116-112. The score's were almost identical with the first bout, but this time there's no controversy. Abraham (42-4, 28 KO's) clearly won the bout that transpired in the judges' scorecards.

In the first round, Smith (35-5, 20 KO's) was able to stick-and-move around Abraham. He fired combination and then moves away. He was effective in the middle of the ring. But in rounds four and five, Abraham was able to let his hands go, as he pinned Smith towards the ropes. Abraham would throw 10 unanswered shots while Smith's back on the ropes. Although, some of those punches were block by Smith's high guard, but some went through with telling effects.

In round six, it seemed Smith hurt Abraham from a punch to the body. He slipped good hooks to the body that momentarily stops Abraham from coming forward.

In the eighth round, Abraham again pinned Smith to the ropes and fired much heavier punches. Smith would return fire, but Abraham absorbed them pretty well. In the ninth and tenth it's a one way traffic, in favor of Abraham, walking down the challenger. Abraham took over the fight and dictates when to engage and disengage Smith.

In the championship round, it's clear that Smith needed a knockout to win. But Smith was somewhat faded because of fatigue and generated less and less output in the last two rounds. In the end it was a clear-cut victory for Abraham.

Other results


Mirco Ricci UD 12 Enrico Koelling - Light heavyweights

24 year old Italian Mirco Ricci (14-2, 4 KO's) upsets Enrico Koelling (16-1, 6 KO's) for the WBA inter-continental title. Ricci capitalized hi reach advantage pot-shooting Koelling from outside. Koelling was a bloody mess in round 9. The scores were 116-112 twice, 117-112.

David Price TKO 6 Irineu Beato Costa Junior - Heavyweights

David Price (19-2, 16 KO's) scored three knockdowns en route to his round six stoppage of Costa. Price now 4-0 in his last three fight (three of those wins by knockout). Price has been reviving his career after back-to-back knockout defeats from American Tony Thompson in 2013.

Josh Warrington TKO 5 Edwin Tellez - Featherweights

Saturday, February 21, 2015

Saturday Night Fights: Golovkin, Abraham faces separate foes tonight

Saturday Night Fights: Golovkin, Abraham faces separate foes tonight


Tonight Gennady Golovkin battles Martin Murray for his title defense and Arthur Abraham meets Paul Smith for the second time.


Arthur Abraham locks horn once again with Paul Smith to settle once and for all the controversy surrounding the first fight in September. Abraham retains super middleweight title in a very wide decision, from a somewhat much closer fight. Tune in for our Abraham-Smith II fight results, starting 2:20 pm EST at the O2 World, Berlin, Germany.


Then later tonight, at Salle des etoiles, Monte Carlo, in Monaco, Gennady Golovkin takes on Martin Murray it what appears to be a stay active fight against Martin Murray. Although on paper Murray has something more to offer than the previous Golovkin opponents. Murray fought a close decision against the former middleweight champion Sergio Martinez, in the champion's backyard. But Golovkin is a heavy favorite, because of his scary reputation. A stunning 18 consecutive knockout victories including notable names... the tough Rubio and Daniel Geale. Stay tuned for our fight results starting

Friday, February 20, 2015

It's official!: Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs Manny Pacquiao is on May 2, 2015

[caption id="attachment_5152" align="alignnone" width="650"]It's official: Floyd Mayweather vs Manny Pacquiao is on May 2, 2015 Photo: Screenshot from Mayweather's Shots account[/caption]

Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs Manny Pacquiao is on May 2, 2015. After more than half a decade the fight that the world has been waiting is finally made. Floyd Mayweather Jr. (47-0, 26 KO) posted on his Shots account a photograph with the apparent official contract that showed his signature besides Manny Pacquiao (57-5-2, 38 KO) and the rest of the people involve, as seen on Mayweather's Shots screen grab above.
"What the world has been waiting for has arrived. Mayweather vs Pacquiao on May 2, 2015, is a done deal. I promised the fans..." -- Floyd Mayweather Jr.

In a report from Kevin Iole of Yahoo Sports! Mayweather said that: "I am glad my decision to meet with Manny and discuss making this fight happen helped get the deal done. Giving the fans what they want to see is always my main focus. This will be the biggest event in the history of the sport. Boxing fans and sports fans around the world will witness greatness on May 2. I am the best ever, TBE, and this fight will be another opportunity to showcase my skills and do what I do best, which is win. Manny is going to try to do what 47 before him failed to do, but he won't be successful. He will be number 48."

So there you go fight fans! The fight that we have been waiting for has finally arrived. Although many believed that it should have happened few years ago, but it's still the biggest fight out there. It's expected that this fight will shatter the existing highest revenue and PPV buys record in the sports' history.

Few minutes after Floyd announced the fight HBO and Showtime held a joint conference call to announce the fight.

“It’s going to be a spectacular night for the sport.” said HBO honcho Ken Hershman during the conference call.

“Each side of this negotiation bore some of the pain in making the deal,” said Espinosa of Showtime.

Weights: Golovkin 159.8 pounds, Murray 159.9

[caption id="attachment_5147" align="alignnone" width="650"]Weights: Golovkin 159.8 pounds, Murray 159.9 Photo by Naoki Fukuda[/caption]

Gennady Golovkin will defend his middleweight title against Martin Murray on Saturday, at the Salle des Étoiles in Monte Carlo, Monaco. Golovkin weighed in at 159.8 pounds while Murray weighed 159.9 during the weigh-in on Friday.

Both combatants look well-prepared to battle it out on Saturday night, during the weigh-in. Murray is confident, Triple G as usual looked very calm. You may read our preview of this fight by following this link:  http://theboxingdiary.com/2015/02/gennady-golovkin-vs-martin-murray-preview.html

Harold Johnson passed away at age 86

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Former undisputed world light-heavyweight champion Harold Johnson passed away this morning at the age of 86. Promoter J Russell Peltz, International Boxing Hall of Fame class of 2004, recalls his days with one of boxing’s all-time greats.


HAROLD JOHNSON: My Boyhood Hero


Harold Johnson was my boyhood hero. My friends would dream about being Mickey Mantle or Tommy McDonald or Wilt Chamberlain, but for me, Harold Johnson was The Bomb. It got to the point that when I was in high school, I would get my hair cut so short, just like Harold’s, that my head looked like a dirty tennis ball. Friends would yell “there goes Peltz with his Harold Johnson haircut.”


His passing this morning leaves me empty and comes at a time when I am questioning my own future in the sometimes wonderful, sometimes wretched world of professional boxing.
Harold was the light-heavyweight champion of the world when, as he would remind me, there was only one world, not a conglomeration of close to 70 belt holders. Rarely were there more than eight world champions in Harold’s time.


There are so many Harold Johnson stories I could tell that would fill up an entire book. Here’s one of them!
Harold had signed to fight Doug Jones, of New York, for the undisputed world title on May 12, 1962, at The Arena in West Philadelphia. He held the NBA version and Jones was the leading contender. Archie Moore was recognized by New York and Europe, but he no longer could make the 175-pound limit so the powers that be sanctioned the showdown between Harold and Jones for universal recognition. I was 15 at the time and in my sophomore year at Lower Merion High School. That’s right, Kobe Bryant went to my high school, I didn’t go to his.


The top priced ticket for the fight was $10. Somehow, I came up with the money because mom had put her foot down and didn’t want dad taking me to any more fights. She thought boxing was a bad influence on me. I took the bus downtown one Saturday and went to the Central City Ticket Office, which was the major ticket outlet back then for the big fights. I bought a ticket for a seat in the Ringside Elevation, dead center, about eight rows up.
When I got home, I ran to my sister’s bedroom, jumped on her bed and showed her the ticket with Herman Taylor’s (promoter) signature on it. I was in heaven! She couldn’t believe I had done it.


The week of the fight—it was on a Saturday night—I told mom I was going to a party at a friend’s house. I walked a couple of blocks to the Bala Cynwyd shopping center, got a bus to 54th & City Line near St. Joseph’s College, then hopped another bus to 52d & Market in West Philly. From there I took the Market Street El to the Arena at 46th & Market. I bought a program outside—I still have it—and I was the first person in the Arena that night.
I remember the usher who took me to my seat remarking that $10 was a lot of money for a young kid to be spending.
The man who sat next to me said he had a son who played soccer for Lower Merion. I knew his son because I had played briefly for the junior varsity.


Harold entered the ring from our side of the building and I remember his blue robe with the white lettering. I was so nervous watching the fight that the pen I used for scoring snapped in half in my hand because I was holding it so tight. The ink was all over my palm.


Harold fought one of his best fights that night, winning a unanimous 15-round decision against a man who less than one year later would give a young Cassius Clay fits in Madison Square Garden.
Afterward, the man next to me asked to drive me home and I freaked out because I didn’t want mom to see me getting out of someone’s car. I told him I could take the subway and the bus but he insisted so I told him I lived about a block or two from where I really lived and I got off there and walked home. Mom never knew.


Less than six weeks later, Harold flew to Berlin, Germany, where he earned a 15-round decision over Gustav Scholz to convince the European Boxing Union that he, indeed, was the man at 175 pounds. Scholz had lost just one out of 92 fights going in. There were 40,000 people in that outdoor soccer stadium and the voting referee and both judges were from Europe. Imagine today’s prima donnas doing that!


I’m not going to waste space writing about the despicable decision that cost Harold his title against Willie Pastrano in 1963 in Las Vegas, but I believe it ranks among the 10 worst in boxing history.


Years later, when I was a senior at Temple University, I was also working full-time on the sports staff at The Evening Bulletin. It was 1968 and the first story I ever wrote for The Bulletin was about Harold’s latest comeback and his win over Eddie “Bossman” Jones in Las Vegas.


The next year, when I began promoting fights, I had wanted Harold to headline my first card, but we couldn’t agree on terms and it never happened.


In 1989, when I had a weekly boxing talk show on WIP radio in Philadelphia, he was the guest on my first show. Harold and I became good friends, but he was not doing well financially. He needed money to get his car out of a repair shop so he sold me the championship belt he had received from The Ring magazine along with the blue-and-white robe he wore that night against Doug Jones.


The Ring belt had been wasting away in a shoe box in his closet and several of the chain links had been broken. I had it restored and framed and it is the crown jewel in my collection. His robe hangs in my closet. I recently was able to purchase a poster from the Doug Jones fight, something I had been wanting for years.


When Harold was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1993, I drove him to Canastota, NY, and back. He was so shy he didn’t want to sign autographs so he put a fake cast on his right hand to dissuade people from asking. It was no use. He gave in and was one of the most popular figures that weekend.
Over the years I would call him, disguising my voice and telling him it was Willie Pastrano on the phone, and how easy it was beating him that night in Las Vegas. He’d say something like “ok, yeah, sure, get over here where I catch you.”


That was about as nasty as Harold could get. I never heard him curse, never heard him use a four-letter word. I remember one time he was talking about a guy who had a great body and the best Harold could say was that the guy was built like a brick outhouse. He couldn’t use the other description. He had class!


I went with his son Chuck to see him last year at the Veterans Administration Home in the Northeast section of Philadelphia. It was not a pretty picture. He didn’t recognize me and was virtually incapable of putting sentences together. This was sad, coming from a man who was once so virile, so strapping, such a physical specimen.
Teddy Brenner, the legendary matchmaker from Madison Square Garden, once remarked that Harold Johnson was as close to being the perfect fighter as one could be but that there was no room in boxing for perfection.
Harold won 76 out of 87 fights against some of the baddest light-heavyweights and heavyweights who ever strapped on the cup and he did it at a time when boxing really meant something on the sports landscape. I will miss him and I will miss those wonderful days.

Gennady Golovkin vs Martin Murray Preview

Gennady Golovkin vs Martin Murray Preview

On Saturday, Gennady 'GGG' Golovkin will be facing Martin Murray at the Salle des Étoiles, Monte Carlo, in Monaco. The Kazakhstan bulldozer guns for the 19th straight knockout victory of his career, and will defend his middleweight straps. Murray is confident that he is the man to beat Golovkin, and he is ready to bear the pain.

'GGG' three years ago


Nearly three years ago, I never hear Gennady Golovkin's name. In 2012, GGG is just another middleweight prospect knocking out up and coming fighters and prospects alike. And most of those opponents he rolled like logs in the ring were never heard of at that time. I never heard about them now. None of them became serious contenders in the weak middleweight division.

In the process, Golovkin (31-0, 28 KOs) amassed 18 straight knockout victories that started back in 2008. Kassim Ouma was the only notable opponent Golovkin had faced from 2008 to 2012.

Weak Middleweight division


It's safe to say that the middleweight division is weak. A division wherein there's no Bernard Hopkins that dominated for a decade. No more Paul Williams, no more Kelly Pavlik. Although the middleweight has a marquee and tough champion in Miguel Cotto, but I can't seriously consider Cotto as a legit middleweight in terms of size. Ok, he stopped the lineal middleweight champion. I had great respect for Cotto, but Sergio Martinez's knee injury made him a setting duck for whatever Cotto threw during the course of the fight. A 100% Martinez is an enormous problem for Miguel.

Golovkin's 2013 surge


'GGG' name burst in 2013. He fought four times and scored knockout victories over Gabriel Rosado, Nobuhiro Ishida, Matthew Macklin and Curtis Stevens. Macklin was considered to put a serious test on Golovkin career. Macklin was among the top ten contenders at that time. But 'GGG' crushed him in three rounds. Golovkin's next assignment was the heavy handed Curtis Stevens. After a knockdown in round 2, Stevens was never the same fighter. He retired in Round 8.

So, a legit middleweight contender in Macklin never posed a real threat to Golovkin. A good puncher in Stevens not able to land any home-run punch and stood no chance against Triple G's power.

After Golovkin's successful 2013 campaign, most boxing observers wanted Golovkin to face the best in the middleweight division. But in early 2014, who was there to be considered as the best MW? Martinez was the champion but was injury-troubled. Because of limited MW opponents, came Osumano Adama. Then came legit MW contenders Daniel Geale and Marco Rubio. But they failed to bring tough competition to Golovkin.

It seemed to me that Golovkin can only find tough competition when he either moves south or north from the MW division. He can move up to SMW for a possible Andre Ward showdown or move down for a Floyd Mayweather sweepstakes (but I don't know the possibility for this fight).

Triple G against Double M


I think Martin Murray (29-1-1, 12 KO's) stands no chance to win against Golovkin. But will he survive till the final bell? Perhaps. Maybe. That I'm not even sure. He's not the fighter every boxing observer wanted Golovkin to face at this point. Without taking anything away from Murray, he's doesn't have the power to match at least power to power against Golovkin. His record can attest to that. He's not even a technically sound boxer to neutralize and compensate at least the power of Golovkin.

The only chance I see is that: if he can close the gap between him and Golovkin, smothering Golovkins power and score points from entirely inside. But this move is easier said than done as Golovkin knows how to throw uppercuts and hooks over the top with devastating power.

Murray was very confident fighter though. But he's not cocky. Here’s what he said at the final press conference.
“This is the fight I wanted,” he said. “Golovkin is a great fighter. Everybody knows that. I’ve never once badmouthed him. He’s a great fighter. He’s done everything right. But I’ve just got a feeling, and I’ve had this feeling for a long time now, that I’m going to be the man to beat him. I really do feel that. I can’t help the way I feel. I know I’m in for the hardest fight of my life and I know I’m going to go through some pain. But I’m willing to go there. I’m looking forward to the fight. It’s going to be tough, as I said, but it’s a challenge. I’ve given myself every possible chance and every possibility to win this fight. Yeah, it’s going to be a tough fight but I’m quietly confident that I can do the job.”

When it's GGG turn to speak, Golovkin's trying to market his opponent. But I find difficulty to buy it.
“My opponent Martin Murray, he’s a great fighter. He’s strong. I respect him. I respect his team. He looks good. He looks strong. My focus is on him. He’s a great fighter. Everybody has big chance. He had two title fights. Now is a great chance for him.”

Final jabs


If there's a member of ISIS inside the boxing ring; no doubt is Gennady Golovkin. He will chop off your head with his potent gloved fists. The only difference is that he will do this in a level battle field. The opponent's hands were not tied on his back -- free to swing as he like. I think Golovkin will finish the job inside 5 rounds.

Saturday, February 14, 2015

Report: Mayweather and Pacquiao agree Las Vegas mega-fight

Report: Mayweather and Pacquiao agree Las Vegas mega-fight

The Telegraph boxing correspondent Gareth A. Davies reports that "the richest match-up in boxing history between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao has finally been agreed".
"The richest match-up in boxing history between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao has finally been agreed after years of haggling."

"A source close to the Filipino boxer and congressman revealed to The Sunday Telegraph that Pacquiao completed his contractual agreements on Saturday and that Mayweather is set to sign and will announce the contest which is expected to be worth $250 million (£162 million) in the coming days."

The report says that the date would be on "May 2" and that there are two other dates on the table.
"The fight the world has waited for, on and off for almost six years, now looks set to take place at the MGM Grand on May 2, although it is believed that there are two other dates on the table."

On Friday, Pacquiao said "positive" when ask about the chance of Mayweather-Pacquiao to take place. And he also said that the fight announcement will be within "this week".

There are several reports also saying that the fight announcement could be this NBA All-Star Sunday. According to sources it's agreed that Mayweather will be the one to announce the fight.

Fight fans, I think, the fight that we've been long been waiting for will finally be happening! Two boxing's best in this era will finally tangle inside the squared battlefield arm with both gloved fists. But still my fingers were crossed till I will the bell to signal the first round then Mayweather and Pacquiao come out from the opposite corner of the ring.

Nonito Donaire Jr. returns to 122-pound division against William Prado

Nonito Donaire Jr. returns to 122-pound division against William Prado

Nonito "The Filipino Flash" Donaire Jr. will return to the ring against William Prado of Brazil on March 28. The scheduled bout will be Donaire's first fight in the Philippines since 2009. Donaire last fought in the Philippines was against Raul Martinez. He won via fourth round knockout.

This is also Donaire's comeback fight after his devastating knockout loss to Nicholas Walters. Against Prado, Donaire will move back down to 122-pound division. The junior featherweight division was Donaire's previous kingdom. He reigned as the king in year 2012. He first captured the vacant WBO strap in February 2012. He won by decision against Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. And then he won another decision over Jeffrey Mathebula for the IBF strap.

Donaire (33-3, 21 KO's) registered two more victories in 2012. He knocked out Toshiaki Nishioka of Japan in October. And he demolished veteran champion Jorge Arce of Mexico in December. With four victories in 2012, Donaire was the consensus 2012 "Fighter of the Year". It was a successful 2012 campaign for Donaire at the 122-pound division. But a dangerous challenger observes in the sideline -- the current 122-pound king Guillermo Rigondeuax.

Donaire's returned to the ring the following year.  Master tactician and Olympic gold medalist Guillermo Rigondeaux dethrone Donaire from his iron throne. Rigo, the most decorated amateur boxer in history, handed Donaire his first defeat since 2001.

Having a new king his most comfortable territory, Donaire decided to leave the 122 pound kingdom to Rigondeaux. He did not demand for a rematch. He planned to conquer another unfamiliar territory. Donaire moved up to the featherweight division. And he won an infamous fifth round technical decision over Simpewe Vetyeka. Vetyeka, was the conqueror of the great Chris John of Indonesia.

With the win at his first try at the featherweight territory, Donaire had big plans ahead. He planned for one title defense. And then move up again to super featherweight division to face rugged veteran Orlando Salido. That was the plan. But he must pass the test of one dangerous challenger, a true featherweight -- Nicholas Walters.

In October 2014, Donaire tasted how it feels to be dominated. Not by a superior skilled fighter, but because of enormous size disadvantage. Walters, with the size advantage of a true featherweight, withstands Donaire's best power shots. But Donaire was not able to take his.

On March 28, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, Manila, Philippines, Donaire will move back down to his ideal fighting weight. With Prado in the opposite corner of the ring, Donaire is in a must-win situation if he wants to start his quest -- a quest to regain his earlier status in the ring.

Nonito's father and trainer Donaire Sr. considers Prado a "tough guy". Although Prado is 3-3 from his last six bouts, but has a total of 21 KO's in his 33 victories, including a first round TKO win in his last bout.

At 32 years old, Donaire maybe in the other side of the hill on his way down. But his power truly resides at the 122-pound division. When his left hook find its home, it could kiss the night goodbye.

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Pacquiao on Mayweather fight: Positive!

Pacquiao on Mayweather fight Positive

Filipino boxing icon Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao (57-5-2, 38 KO's) was with his constituent on Thursday. The fighting congressman of Sarangani gave educational financial assistance to 345 students. After the cash assistance distribution, ABS-CBN's Jay Dayupan ask Pacquiao, in an interview, regarding the chance of the much awaited mega fight between him and undefeated American Floyd Mayweather Jr. Pacquiao's short answer: "Positive!"

"When will be the announcement sir, this February or March?" asked Dayupan in Filipino. "Within in this week" says Pacquiao.

The report also confirmed that Mayweather Jr. (47-0, 26 KO's) called Pacquiao on February 9, but Pacquiao said no details about the conversation.

So, it seemed that Mayweather took initiative to dial the phone number that Pacquiao gave him during their chance met-up on Heat-Bucks basketball in Miami. Pacquiao and Mayweather exchanged phone numbers mid-court during the game's halftime.

With the above being said, do you think the much anticipated fight, almost six years in the making, will finally happen?

Saturday, February 7, 2015

My frustration, hope for a Mayweather-Pacquiao

Mayweather-Pacquiao

Many things came out in the fight negotiation between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao lately. But boxing fans still frustrated. I'm frustrated. Until now there's no fight announcement.

Negotiation should have started the day after Pacquiao demolished Chris Algieri. Ok fine, that’s too soon.

They negotiated several times in the past and failed.

But in 2015, I think the talks between Mayweather and Pacquiao camp started in January. And it's a roller coaster ride until now.

It comes to a point that there seemed to be a divine intervention. Mayweather and Pacquiao met by “chance” in Miami Heat- Buck basketball game. The first time they see each other face-to-face. The chance met-up did some buzz.

Floyd met again Manny in private, at Pacquiao's hotel suite. Floyd made a point clear to the public that he wants the fight.  He somewhat eradicated the perception that he's ducking Pacquiao or avoiding the fight. He made things clear. He wanted the fight.

Then a report from TMZ (anticipating that the fight maybe announce soon) saying that "Mayweather vs. Pacquiao deal is done" and "fight set".

The report picked up by leading boxing media sites. But later on it was disproved by those people having "say" in the negotiation.

Even Mayweather denied the story in Jamaica, while relaxing in a hammock, while the boxing world got crazy.

Here’s Bob Arum who came out with many stories all over media. He urged Floyd signing a "contract". It is an effort to blame Floyd if the fight isn't happening. But it turns out there’s nothing to sign.

Then Arum later on slacked on Mayweather. He admitted that he should have listened to Floyd during the time that he was promoting Floyd's young career.

Then Mayweather posted a picture of him with the Filipino boxing icon on "Shots". It is a picture during their reported private meeting.

After venting out my frustration about this long delayed fight, I did not write anything about May-Pac. I did not get frenzy about those above happenings. I'm still frustrated. If this fight won't happen, I'm thinking of shutting down this blog.

Although we are now in the first week of February but no Pac-Money announcement, but there’s little hope I see.

We all know that Mayweather will definitely fight on May (Cinco de Mayo). He fights at least twice a year. And he fights every May in the last three years. He'll be fighting on that date irrespective of who he fights.

That’s clear message to Saul Canelo Alvarez who even went back to HBO from Showtime just to secure May date.

With the above said I am still hopeful that Myweather-Pacquiao will definitely happen. If Mayweather don't see any hope of a Pacquiao fight, he should have announced another opponent at this point.  There's almost no time for another opponent, at this point, for a May bout.

Floyd should decide now to fight someone else, if no Pacquiao. Otherwise there's no time to promote. Because fighting another on May 3 and not announcing at this point is a disaster. We all know he should promote that fight harder than ever. We all know it would be a tough sell.

Floyd fighting someone else not named Pacquiao without proper promotion on May will result less than 500,000 PPV buys, in my opinion.

Not if it is against Pacquaio. Fighting Pacman on May 3 and announce it even on Feb 28 is not an issue. The fight will sell by itself.

But Mayweather against anyone else... nah! Maybe I'll join those who called to boycott.

So, I’m still hopeful. I think this fight will happen this May or never.

As a boxing fan, don't let your frustration overcome your hope. Mayweather-Pacquiao will finally happen.

Wednesday, February 4, 2015

Dawejko-Umohette scheduled on March 6

unnamed (1)

Philadelphia, PA—Heavyweight prospect Joey Dawejko, who has scored three straight one-round knockouts, takes on Enobong Umohette, of Nigeria, in an eight-round fight Friday evening, March 6, at the 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia.

The Dawejko-Umohette match, as well as the eight-round junior lightweight contest between Jason Sosa, of Camden, NJ, and Bergman Aguilar, of Escazu, Costa Rica, top a seven-bout card which begins at 7pm
Dawejko (right), 24, had a big year in 2014, going 5-0 and beating fringe contender Derric Rossy, of New York, to break onto the heavyweight scene 12 months ago.

A pro since 2009, Dawejko, also known as The Tank, is 13-3-2, 6 K0s. In his last three fights, neither David Williams, of Philadelphia, Yohan Banks, of Redwood City, CA, nor Rayford Johnson, of Longview, TX, were able to survive the first round. Dawejko also defeated then-unbeaten Philadelphia Mark Rideout in 2014.

“This could be the start of a big year for me,” Dawejko said, “so I’m not taking any chances. I’m going away to the mountains to train for this fight. Umohette is a big, strong guy and I need to be prepared. Last year was a rebuilding year for me and I hope to get into the world rankings in 2015.

unnamed (2)“I saw Umohette fight on video and I listened to his story. This is a big fight for him, also.”
Umohette (left), 35, now living in Milwaukee, WI, started boxing in 1998. Known as The Nigerian Gentleman, he won his country’s National Amateur Championship in 2005 in the super heavyweight division.
After relocating to Wisconsin, he won that state’s Novice Heavyweight Title in 2007.

Umohette turned pro in 2009 and promptly lost his first fight before going on a nine-fight winning streak which included winning the Wisconsin State Heavyweight Title.
“It will be an honor and a privilege to compete against the highly decorated former World Amateur Champion, Joey Dawejko, in his home state of Pennsylvania, which has a legendary boxing history,” Umohette said. “Dawejko’s very distinguished amateur career and his blazing pro career is testimony to his enormous talent. I look forward to an entertaining bout against The Tank on March 6.”

About March 6

The Dawejko-Umohette and Sosa-Aguilar fights headline a seven-bout card at the 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia. Doors open at 6 pm; first fight is 7pm. The card will be streamed live on www.gfl.com and on Comcast SportsNet (CSN) on a delayed basis. Tickets are priced $35, $50 and $75 and they can be purchased by calling Peltz Boxing (215-765-0922) and Wanamaker’s Tickets (215-568-2400). Tickets also can be purchased online at www.peltzboxing.com and www.wanatix.com. The March 6 card is promoted by Joe Hand Promotions, Peltz Boxing and BAM Boxing.