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Saturday, March 28, 2015
Pinoy Pride 30 results: Nietes, Donaire, Pagara win by stoppage
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Donnie Nietes retains junior flyweight title / Photo: Retech Son[/caption]
Donnie “Ahas” Nietes, (35-1-4, 21 KO’s), longest reigning Filipino champion, defended his junior flyweight title against Mexican Gilberto Parra. The Mexican was stop after Round 9. Parra (19-3, 17 KO's) was not allowed to answer the bell to begin Round 10. He suffered a nasty cut below his left eye from a Nietes’ solid right hand.
Upon the advice of ringside physician, referee Jack Reiss stopped the contest.
Before the stoppage, Nietes dropped Parra in Round 8. He landed a hard right to the head that sent Parra down. The crafty Mexican was able to beat the count and continue with wobbled legs. He’s hanging on to dear life until the end of Round 8, as Nietes was so determine to finish the challenger.
But Parra to his credit, used lateral movements, reach advantage and evaded finishing blows from the champion.
During the post-fight conference, ALA boss Michael Aldequer says that Donnie Nietes will face Francisco Rodriquez on July 4 in Cebu. And already had preliminary talks with Zanfer Promotions about an Estrada fight.
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Nonito Donaire pummels over-matched William Prado of Brazil, as referee Bruce Mc Tavish getting ready to step in to halt the contest. Photo: Retech Son[/caption]
In the co-feature bout of the night, Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire (34-3, 21 KO’s) scored a second round knockout victory over William Prado (22-4-1, 15 KO’s) of Brazil. In the first round, it is obvious Prado had no match with Donaire’s fire power. Although Prado was moving forward to Donaire, but was not throwing any significant punches.
In Round 2, Donaire opened up with series of haymakers from his vaunted left hook. He wobbled Prado and didn’t waste time to finish the business at hand. He pummeled Prado to the ropes until referee Bruce Mc Tavish stepped in to save Prado from further damage.
Donaire, decided to move back down in weight to 122 pounds for this fight after a knockout defeat over much bigger and stronger Nicholas Walters at featherweight.
With the win, Donaire aims another title fight before the year ends at 122 -- a division whom he dominated in 2012 and named fighter of the year, winning all four fights in the same year.
In an interview, Donaire called out Leo Santa. And also said he's open for a rematch with master tactician Guillermo Rigondeaux.
Rigondeaux is the 122 pound world champion according to the Transnational Boxing Rankings Board.
Rigondeaux defeated Donaire when they first met in April 2013.
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Albert Pagara connects a jab to Rodolfo Hernandez. Photo: Retech Son[/caption]
Albert Pagara (23-0, 16 KO’s) maintained unbeaten record by preventing Rodolfo Hernandez (26-6-1, 24 KO’s) to leave his corner to start the fifth stanza. According to Hernandez's corner, he injured his hand and is unable to continue.
Pagara has superior fire power over the Mexican who was knockdown in the first round.
According to Aldequer, Pagara will begin training in the States in preparation for a fight in Dubai on June 12 against an opponent yet to be named.
Donnie Nietes retains junior flyweight title / Photo: Retech Son[/caption]Donnie “Ahas” Nietes, (35-1-4, 21 KO’s), longest reigning Filipino champion, defended his junior flyweight title against Mexican Gilberto Parra. The Mexican was stop after Round 9. Parra (19-3, 17 KO's) was not allowed to answer the bell to begin Round 10. He suffered a nasty cut below his left eye from a Nietes’ solid right hand.
Upon the advice of ringside physician, referee Jack Reiss stopped the contest.
Before the stoppage, Nietes dropped Parra in Round 8. He landed a hard right to the head that sent Parra down. The crafty Mexican was able to beat the count and continue with wobbled legs. He’s hanging on to dear life until the end of Round 8, as Nietes was so determine to finish the challenger.
But Parra to his credit, used lateral movements, reach advantage and evaded finishing blows from the champion.
During the post-fight conference, ALA boss Michael Aldequer says that Donnie Nietes will face Francisco Rodriquez on July 4 in Cebu. And already had preliminary talks with Zanfer Promotions about an Estrada fight.
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Nonito Donaire pummels over-matched William Prado of Brazil, as referee Bruce Mc Tavish getting ready to step in to halt the contest. Photo: Retech Son[/caption]Nonito Donaire scores an impressive TKO victory over William Prado
In the co-feature bout of the night, Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire (34-3, 21 KO’s) scored a second round knockout victory over William Prado (22-4-1, 15 KO’s) of Brazil. In the first round, it is obvious Prado had no match with Donaire’s fire power. Although Prado was moving forward to Donaire, but was not throwing any significant punches.
In Round 2, Donaire opened up with series of haymakers from his vaunted left hook. He wobbled Prado and didn’t waste time to finish the business at hand. He pummeled Prado to the ropes until referee Bruce Mc Tavish stepped in to save Prado from further damage.
Donaire, decided to move back down in weight to 122 pounds for this fight after a knockout defeat over much bigger and stronger Nicholas Walters at featherweight.
With the win, Donaire aims another title fight before the year ends at 122 -- a division whom he dominated in 2012 and named fighter of the year, winning all four fights in the same year.
In an interview, Donaire called out Leo Santa. And also said he's open for a rematch with master tactician Guillermo Rigondeaux.
“I’m all in” says Nonito Donaire when ask about a possible rematch with 122 pound division champion--Guillermo Rigondeaux or a showdown with fast-rising star Leo Santa Cruz.
Rigondeaux is the 122 pound world champion according to the Transnational Boxing Rankings Board.
Rigondeaux defeated Donaire when they first met in April 2013.
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Albert Pagara connects a jab to Rodolfo Hernandez. Photo: Retech Son[/caption]Albert Pagara retires Rodolfo Hernandez after Round 4
Albert Pagara (23-0, 16 KO’s) maintained unbeaten record by preventing Rodolfo Hernandez (26-6-1, 24 KO’s) to leave his corner to start the fifth stanza. According to Hernandez's corner, he injured his hand and is unable to continue.
Pagara has superior fire power over the Mexican who was knockdown in the first round.
According to Aldequer, Pagara will begin training in the States in preparation for a fight in Dubai on June 12 against an opponent yet to be named.
GOLDEN BOY FILES SUIT AGAINST JHONNY GONZALEZ AND PROMOCIONES DEL PUEBLO
LOS ANGELES, (March 27, 2015) Boxer Jhonny Gonzalez and his Mexican promoter Promociones del Pueblo conspired with manager/promoter Al Haymon to violate Golden Boy's exclusive rights to promote Gonzalez, a bombshell complaint filed today against the fighter and the promotional company contends.
Despite Golden Boy's repeated attempts, Gonzalez, Promociones del Pueblo and Haymon repeatedly refused to put on tomorrow night's fight between Gonzalez and Gary Russell, Jr., until they cut Golden Boy out of the process, clearly violating the agreement between the boxer and promoter.
"Golden Boy's contract with Jhonny Gonzalez couldn't be clearer - the company has exclusive promotional rights for two years or four fights, and neither of those milestones has been reached to date," said Golden Boy Spokesman Stefan Friedman. "Furthermore, the motive behind the defendants adamant and longtime refusal to match Gonzalez with Gary Russell, Jr is now plain for the world to see. We will vigorously fight to ensure our contract is enforced."
Golden Boy is seeking damages of no less than $1 million and for the court to enforce the company's existing contract with Gonzalez.
According to the complaint:
"In December 2013, Golden Boy entered into a written agreement with Gonzalez and DPP wherein Golden Boy obtained the exclusive right to promote Gonzalez's professional boxing matches throughout the world for a period of two years beginning on the first bout conducted pursuant to the agreement, or four fights, whichever comes first (the "Agreement"). The Agreement further provides that Gonzalez will not take part in any professional boxing match prior to the first bout conducted pursuant to the Agreement.
In August, 2014, Golden Boy proposed that Gonzalez fight Gary Russell, Jr., a promising featherweight boxer in either November or December of that year. DPP initially ignored this proposal and then rejected it, preferring to have Gonzalez fight a lesser opponent, Jose Arce, in Mexico in October.
Thereafter, Golden Boy continued to try and find appropriate fights for Gonzalez. However, DPP consistently refused the fights proposed by Golden Boy for Gonzalez.
In February, 2015, it became clear why DPP was refusing all of the fights proposed by Golden Boy for Gonzalez. DPP was conspiring with Russell's manager/promoter, Al Haymon, to put together a fight between Gonzalez and Russell in which Golden Boy would not be involved."
Despite Golden Boy's repeated attempts, Gonzalez, Promociones del Pueblo and Haymon repeatedly refused to put on tomorrow night's fight between Gonzalez and Gary Russell, Jr., until they cut Golden Boy out of the process, clearly violating the agreement between the boxer and promoter.
"Golden Boy's contract with Jhonny Gonzalez couldn't be clearer - the company has exclusive promotional rights for two years or four fights, and neither of those milestones has been reached to date," said Golden Boy Spokesman Stefan Friedman. "Furthermore, the motive behind the defendants adamant and longtime refusal to match Gonzalez with Gary Russell, Jr is now plain for the world to see. We will vigorously fight to ensure our contract is enforced."
Golden Boy is seeking damages of no less than $1 million and for the court to enforce the company's existing contract with Gonzalez.
According to the complaint:
"In December 2013, Golden Boy entered into a written agreement with Gonzalez and DPP wherein Golden Boy obtained the exclusive right to promote Gonzalez's professional boxing matches throughout the world for a period of two years beginning on the first bout conducted pursuant to the agreement, or four fights, whichever comes first (the "Agreement"). The Agreement further provides that Gonzalez will not take part in any professional boxing match prior to the first bout conducted pursuant to the Agreement.
In August, 2014, Golden Boy proposed that Gonzalez fight Gary Russell, Jr., a promising featherweight boxer in either November or December of that year. DPP initially ignored this proposal and then rejected it, preferring to have Gonzalez fight a lesser opponent, Jose Arce, in Mexico in October.
Thereafter, Golden Boy continued to try and find appropriate fights for Gonzalez. However, DPP consistently refused the fights proposed by Golden Boy for Gonzalez.
In February, 2015, it became clear why DPP was refusing all of the fights proposed by Golden Boy for Gonzalez. DPP was conspiring with Russell's manager/promoter, Al Haymon, to put together a fight between Gonzalez and Russell in which Golden Boy would not be involved."
Friday, March 27, 2015
Pinoy Pride weights 30: Nietes 108, Donaire 122, Pagara 122
Longest reigning Filipino champion Donnie Nietes and his opponent Parra both came in at the junior flyweight limit at 108 pounds. Nietes will headline the 30th edition of the very successful Pinoy Pride series.
In the co-feature, multi-division world titlist Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire and Brazil’s William Prado both came in at 122 lbs for their NABF super bantamweight bout. It was reported earlier that Donaire had problem cutting down in weight. But on Friday at the weigh-in at historic Araneta coliseum (now Smart Araneta) had no problems making the contractual weight.
“Prince” Albert Pagara also came in at 122 lbs while his opponent Mexican Rodolfo Hernandez weighed 121 lbs. Pagara’s will defend his IBF Inter-continental title.
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
45 days after surgery, Rey Loreto knocks out Nkosinathi Joyi in Round 1
Defending IBO light flyweight titlist, Rey Loreto knocked out Nkosinathi Joyi in Round 1 of their rematch in East London, South Africa.
The unknown Loreto came out from nowhere scoring a devastating 3rd round knockout victory over former Olympian and then light flyweight titlist Joyi (24-4, 17 KO's) during their first encounter in February last year.
After 13 months, Loreto (20-13, 12 KO's) repeats history, this time knocking out Joyi in Round 1. He overcome the greatest adversity a boxer may have in a fight.
It was miracle how Loreto won via knockout in a fight he’s destined to lose. Loreto underwent a surgical operation 45 days before the fight. But he managed to overcome the huge disadvantage and came out victorious.
Loreto underwent appendectomy—a surgical operation to remove the appendix to cure appendicitis on Feb 6.
The fight was originally scheduled on Feb 28. But was pushed back to March 22 to give time for Loreto’s wounds to heal. Yes! 45 days is needed to heal--but not to train and get ready. But to go back to training for the fight to get back into fighting form is impossible.
According to Healthline.com, after an appendectomy “it takes about four to six weeks to fully recover”.
With the above condition, I assumed Loreto did not come back for training. He utilized 45 days to fully recover. But he was not able to go back to training. Then he was pulled out from bed rest to put on the gloves, climbed the ring for a suicide mission.
I’m not a doctor, but I understand the situation and the risk Loreto played. I don’t know who cleared Loreto to fight. And it seemed nobody picked up from the Philippine media regarding the risk Loreto took.
My daughter was operated due to fractured bone last week. He shared the same surgical ward with a patient who underwent appendectomy procedure. He was a 12 year old kid, graduating in elementary, a taekwondo champion and basketball MVP for 12 years old and under league in their municipality. He's physically active but I saw how he suffered the pain, how his body weakened due to the operation. The recovery is fast but painful. I doubt if he can play basketball after 45 days. But Loreto fought after 45 days.
In a report it was mentioned that Loreto grabbed the opportunity because he needed the money to build a house for his family. In my opinion, it was not a wise decision for Loreto and he’s team should advise him the right decision.
Building a house can wait, but fighting with his condition can make him go back to the hospital without delay. And all his earnings from the fight might not be enough for hospital bills.
Come on this is boxing, this is not chess match, wherein a week after a surgical operation he can compete. A solid blow to the body could mean a disastrous end.
Anyway, I’m glad the fight did not end in the above way. I salute Loreto’s heart and courage. But courage should not lead to idiotic act. I'm not criticizing the fighter here. A fighter will always be a warrior and fight his fight. But it is the handlers or boxing officials duty to ascertain the fighter's safety.
The unknown Loreto came out from nowhere scoring a devastating 3rd round knockout victory over former Olympian and then light flyweight titlist Joyi (24-4, 17 KO's) during their first encounter in February last year.
After 13 months, Loreto (20-13, 12 KO's) repeats history, this time knocking out Joyi in Round 1. He overcome the greatest adversity a boxer may have in a fight.It was miracle how Loreto won via knockout in a fight he’s destined to lose. Loreto underwent a surgical operation 45 days before the fight. But he managed to overcome the huge disadvantage and came out victorious.
Loreto underwent appendectomy—a surgical operation to remove the appendix to cure appendicitis on Feb 6.
The fight was originally scheduled on Feb 28. But was pushed back to March 22 to give time for Loreto’s wounds to heal. Yes! 45 days is needed to heal--but not to train and get ready. But to go back to training for the fight to get back into fighting form is impossible.
According to Healthline.com, after an appendectomy “it takes about four to six weeks to fully recover”.
“Full recovery from an appendectomy takes about four to six weeks. During this time, your doctor will probably recommend that you limit your physical activity to allow your body to heal. You may also be prescribed antibiotics after the surgery to lower your risk of infection.”
With the above condition, I assumed Loreto did not come back for training. He utilized 45 days to fully recover. But he was not able to go back to training. Then he was pulled out from bed rest to put on the gloves, climbed the ring for a suicide mission.
I’m not a doctor, but I understand the situation and the risk Loreto played. I don’t know who cleared Loreto to fight. And it seemed nobody picked up from the Philippine media regarding the risk Loreto took.
My daughter was operated due to fractured bone last week. He shared the same surgical ward with a patient who underwent appendectomy procedure. He was a 12 year old kid, graduating in elementary, a taekwondo champion and basketball MVP for 12 years old and under league in their municipality. He's physically active but I saw how he suffered the pain, how his body weakened due to the operation. The recovery is fast but painful. I doubt if he can play basketball after 45 days. But Loreto fought after 45 days.
In a report it was mentioned that Loreto grabbed the opportunity because he needed the money to build a house for his family. In my opinion, it was not a wise decision for Loreto and he’s team should advise him the right decision.
Building a house can wait, but fighting with his condition can make him go back to the hospital without delay. And all his earnings from the fight might not be enough for hospital bills.
Come on this is boxing, this is not chess match, wherein a week after a surgical operation he can compete. A solid blow to the body could mean a disastrous end.
Anyway, I’m glad the fight did not end in the above way. I salute Loreto’s heart and courage. But courage should not lead to idiotic act. I'm not criticizing the fighter here. A fighter will always be a warrior and fight his fight. But it is the handlers or boxing officials duty to ascertain the fighter's safety.
Monday, March 23, 2015
Pinoy Pride 30: Nietes, Donaire, Pagara to host Media Workout
Pinoy Pride 30 fighters will host media workout on March 24 at the ALA Gym, Balete Drive. Longest reigning Filipino champion Donnie "Ahas" Nietes, 2012 FOTY Nonito "The Filipino Flash" Donaire and unbeaten prospect Albert Pagara will host media workout. The fighters will showcase what they've got so far during several weeks of training.
Pinoy Pride 30, dubbed "D-Day" will be on Saturday night at the Smart Araneta, Cubao, Quezon City.
Nietes (34-1-4, 20 KO's) will headline the event. He will defend his WBO light flyweight title against Mexico's Gilberto Parra. The Mexican has an impressive record of 19 wins, 17 by way of knockout, with only two defeats.
Donaire (33-3, 21 KO's) will be back in action. And he will co-feature the event against Brazil’s William Prado who has 22 wins, four defeats and a draw. Donaire will move back down to 122 pound division following his unsuccessful ran at 126 pound division.
Although struggling at featherweight, Donaire had two wins. He won a title from Simpewe Vetyeka. And a knockout victory over former rival Vic Darchinyan while behind the scorecards.
But on Donaire’s third try at featherweight, he was knocked out by a much bigger and stronger Nicholas Walters. After the defeat, he decided to move back down to junior featherweight.
Young prospect, Albert Pagara (22-0, 15 KO's) faces knockout artist, Mexico's Rodolfo Hernandez (26-5-1, 24 KO's). The IBF Inter-continental super bantamweight title will be on the line. I expect a non-stop action till one will drop in this fight. It might steal the show. Don't miss it.
Pinoy Pride 30, dubbed "D-Day" will be on Saturday night at the Smart Araneta, Cubao, Quezon City.
Nietes (34-1-4, 20 KO's) will headline the event. He will defend his WBO light flyweight title against Mexico's Gilberto Parra. The Mexican has an impressive record of 19 wins, 17 by way of knockout, with only two defeats.Donaire (33-3, 21 KO's) will be back in action. And he will co-feature the event against Brazil’s William Prado who has 22 wins, four defeats and a draw. Donaire will move back down to 122 pound division following his unsuccessful ran at 126 pound division.
Although struggling at featherweight, Donaire had two wins. He won a title from Simpewe Vetyeka. And a knockout victory over former rival Vic Darchinyan while behind the scorecards.
But on Donaire’s third try at featherweight, he was knocked out by a much bigger and stronger Nicholas Walters. After the defeat, he decided to move back down to junior featherweight.
Young prospect, Albert Pagara (22-0, 15 KO's) faces knockout artist, Mexico's Rodolfo Hernandez (26-5-1, 24 KO's). The IBF Inter-continental super bantamweight title will be on the line. I expect a non-stop action till one will drop in this fight. It might steal the show. Don't miss it.
Mayweather-Pacquiao official fight poster revealed
At least 40 days from the most anticipated mega-fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr. (47-0, 26 KO's) and Manny Pacquiao (57-5-2, 38 KO's), HBO revealed the official poster of the fight. The fight simply dubbed Mayweather-Pacquiao had no catch phrase or whatsoever as the names of the fighters involved were top marquee fighters. The fight has been six years in the making. The fight is expected to sell by itself even without the usual major city press tours or any fancy tag line.
Mayweather and Pacquiao will finally tangle in the ring on May 2 at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas for the biggest fight that will probably break boxing revenue records.
Friday, March 20, 2015
Mercito "No Mercy" Gesta Faces Carlos Molina In Clash Of Contenders
LOS ANGELES (March 20) - Former lightweight world title challenger Mercito "No Mercy" Gesta (28-1-1, 16 KOs) and Los Angeles area standout Carlos Molina (17-2-1, 7 KOs) will battle it out on Thursday, April 30 looking to crash their way into the 140-pound title picture in the 10-round Golden Boy Live! FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportesmain event at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, California. Tickets for the April 30Gesta vs. Molina card went on sale today, Friday, March 20 at 10am a.m. PT.
"Golden Boy Promotions is proud to return to Fantasy Springs Resort Casino on April 30with another exciting match up between Mercito Gesta and Carlos Molina," said Golden Boy Promotions Founder and President Oscar De La Hoya. "These fighters have fought some of the best in the sport, so they know what it takes to fight hard in order to get the win. Fans are not going to be disappointed by what will happen in the ring on April 30between Gesta and Molina."
"I'm so excited for my upcoming fight at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino against Carlos Molina," said Mercito Gesta. "Carlos has fought well-known fighters Adrien Broner and Amir Khan and I will be ready to challenge him. I know that he is a true warrior with a lot of heart and I plan to meet him as an equal on fight night. This will be my first fight as a Golden Boy Promotions fighter and I want to thank Oscar De La Hoya and Robert Diaz for all the support and the opportunity. I know they are committed to bringing fans the best fights and on April 30 I will deliver an exciting night. The fans will not be disappointed."
"This is going to be another great fight between Mexico and the Philippines," said Carlos Molina. "This is an important fight for me and I am extremely motivated to put on a great fight for the fans. Mercito Gesta is a tough fighter and a win over him would be a great step forward in my career. It will be my chance to get on the map as a title contender and I am not wasting this opportunity."
A proud native of Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines, Mercito "No Mercy" Gesta has become a fan favorite not just at home but also in his adopted city of San Diego, California where he lives and trains. Given his action-packed fighting style, it's no surprise that Gesta has been adopted as a hometown favorite by San Diegans. A 12-year professional, Gesta fell short of victory in his first shot at a world title in the lightweight category against Miguel Vazquez in 2012. Since returning to the ring as a super lightweight in 2014, the 27-year-old Gesta has looked better than ever in stopping Edgar Riovalle and Luis Arceo.
Norwalk's Carlos Molina is one of the most experienced and toughest fighters in his division, having faced former world champions Amir Khan and Adrien Broner in his most recent bouts. Molina is a talented boxer-puncher whose versatility has led him to wins over a varied array of experienced opponents. Now, the 29-year-old Molina's first fight on California soil since December 2012 against the powerful Gesta will be a highly-anticipated bout for all his local fans eager to see him make a run at a championship in 2015.
Tickets for the event go on sale today, Friday, March 20 and are priced at $25, $35, and $45 at the Fantasy Springs Box Office, by calling (800) 827-2946 or online atwww.fantasyspringsresort.com.
Gesta vs. Molina is a 10-round super lightweight bout presented 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 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT.
"Golden Boy Promotions is proud to return to Fantasy Springs Resort Casino on April 30with another exciting match up between Mercito Gesta and Carlos Molina," said Golden Boy Promotions Founder and President Oscar De La Hoya. "These fighters have fought some of the best in the sport, so they know what it takes to fight hard in order to get the win. Fans are not going to be disappointed by what will happen in the ring on April 30between Gesta and Molina.""I'm so excited for my upcoming fight at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino against Carlos Molina," said Mercito Gesta. "Carlos has fought well-known fighters Adrien Broner and Amir Khan and I will be ready to challenge him. I know that he is a true warrior with a lot of heart and I plan to meet him as an equal on fight night. This will be my first fight as a Golden Boy Promotions fighter and I want to thank Oscar De La Hoya and Robert Diaz for all the support and the opportunity. I know they are committed to bringing fans the best fights and on April 30 I will deliver an exciting night. The fans will not be disappointed."
"This is going to be another great fight between Mexico and the Philippines," said Carlos Molina. "This is an important fight for me and I am extremely motivated to put on a great fight for the fans. Mercito Gesta is a tough fighter and a win over him would be a great step forward in my career. It will be my chance to get on the map as a title contender and I am not wasting this opportunity."
A proud native of Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines, Mercito "No Mercy" Gesta has become a fan favorite not just at home but also in his adopted city of San Diego, California where he lives and trains. Given his action-packed fighting style, it's no surprise that Gesta has been adopted as a hometown favorite by San Diegans. A 12-year professional, Gesta fell short of victory in his first shot at a world title in the lightweight category against Miguel Vazquez in 2012. Since returning to the ring as a super lightweight in 2014, the 27-year-old Gesta has looked better than ever in stopping Edgar Riovalle and Luis Arceo.
Norwalk's Carlos Molina is one of the most experienced and toughest fighters in his division, having faced former world champions Amir Khan and Adrien Broner in his most recent bouts. Molina is a talented boxer-puncher whose versatility has led him to wins over a varied array of experienced opponents. Now, the 29-year-old Molina's first fight on California soil since December 2012 against the powerful Gesta will be a highly-anticipated bout for all his local fans eager to see him make a run at a championship in 2015.
Tickets for the event go on sale today, Friday, March 20 and are priced at $25, $35, and $45 at the Fantasy Springs Box Office, by calling (800) 827-2946 or online atwww.fantasyspringsresort.com.
Gesta vs. Molina is a 10-round super lightweight bout presented 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 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT.
Thursday, March 19, 2015
Donaire struggles to make weight?
Donnie “Ahas” Nietes, the longest reigning Filipino champion, will headline the popular Pinoy Pride series in its 30th installment. Nonito “The Filipino Flash" Donaire will co-featured the event against William Prado of Brazil. This will be Nietes’ first fight, after he became the longest reining Filipino champion. He surpassed the record of the great Gabriel “Flash” Elorde.
I’m in my native Philippines during the fight for a vacation. The fight penciled on 28th March at the famous Smart Araneta (formerly Araneta Coliseum, the venue of “Thrila in Manila” Ali-Fraser III). I might be present to cover the event for SPB. I will run a live blog for this event on SPB and on Twitter. Make sure to follow me on twitter @RetechSon for live updates, as Pinoy Pride 30 unfolds.
Nietes (34-1-4, 20 KO’s will be coming from fresh victory over Carlos Velarde in November last year. He then, surpassed Elorde’s record in January 2015 as the longest reigning Filipino champion. He will be defending his light flyweight title against Gilberto Parra. Sonora, Mexico’s Parra had a impressive record. He won 17 by way of knockouts out of his 19 victories.
Meanwhile, Donaire (33- 3, 21 KO's) will move back down to 122 pound division for Prado. Although it's a ten round fight, but the winner will take home the vacant North American Boxing Federation (NABF) 122 pound title. Donaire’s in a must-win situation, to rebound from a rough 2014 campaign. He was knocked out in the sixth round by the much bigger Nicholas Walters defending his featherweight title.
After the fight with Walters, Donaire admitted that his opponent was way stronger and much bigger than him. Donaire used to fight shorter opponents. This is because of his height advantage over previous opponents at the lower weight classes. Although this time, he will move back down to 122 pound, report from Ronnie Natanielsz says that Donaire “has problems making the weight”. Donaire reportedly is still around 132 pounds. That’s two weight classes higher than 122 pounds, less than 10 days before the fight.
With the above report I’m excited to find out if Donaire can still make the 122 pound division-limit, where he’s so successful. He was the consensus “2012 Fighter of the Year”, winning all four fights in the same division in 2012. Otherwise, if he struggled to make weight, I think he might go back up to featherweight. He only fought three times at the featherweight. And I believed few more fights there he will be comfortable and can deal with the legit feathers.
Unbeaten prospect, Albert Pagara will be seen in action also.
I’m in my native Philippines during the fight for a vacation. The fight penciled on 28th March at the famous Smart Araneta (formerly Araneta Coliseum, the venue of “Thrila in Manila” Ali-Fraser III). I might be present to cover the event for SPB. I will run a live blog for this event on SPB and on Twitter. Make sure to follow me on twitter @RetechSon for live updates, as Pinoy Pride 30 unfolds.
Nietes (34-1-4, 20 KO’s will be coming from fresh victory over Carlos Velarde in November last year. He then, surpassed Elorde’s record in January 2015 as the longest reigning Filipino champion. He will be defending his light flyweight title against Gilberto Parra. Sonora, Mexico’s Parra had a impressive record. He won 17 by way of knockouts out of his 19 victories.
Meanwhile, Donaire (33- 3, 21 KO's) will move back down to 122 pound division for Prado. Although it's a ten round fight, but the winner will take home the vacant North American Boxing Federation (NABF) 122 pound title. Donaire’s in a must-win situation, to rebound from a rough 2014 campaign. He was knocked out in the sixth round by the much bigger Nicholas Walters defending his featherweight title.
After the fight with Walters, Donaire admitted that his opponent was way stronger and much bigger than him. Donaire used to fight shorter opponents. This is because of his height advantage over previous opponents at the lower weight classes. Although this time, he will move back down to 122 pound, report from Ronnie Natanielsz says that Donaire “has problems making the weight”. Donaire reportedly is still around 132 pounds. That’s two weight classes higher than 122 pounds, less than 10 days before the fight.
With the above report I’m excited to find out if Donaire can still make the 122 pound division-limit, where he’s so successful. He was the consensus “2012 Fighter of the Year”, winning all four fights in the same division in 2012. Otherwise, if he struggled to make weight, I think he might go back up to featherweight. He only fought three times at the featherweight. And I believed few more fights there he will be comfortable and can deal with the legit feathers.
Unbeaten prospect, Albert Pagara will be seen in action also.
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
TBRB: May 2 Will Crown Welterweight King, May Launch Pac Into Boxing History
The Transnational Boxing Rankings Board, an independent, international, noncommercial rankings organization, announces that the winner of the Floyd Mayweather Jr.–Manny Pacquiao fight on May 2 will be crowned the true welterweight champion of the world.
The 44-member board, representing 16 countries and five continents, does not acknowledge the various belts passed off as “world championships” and therefore does not acknowledge “unification” as anything more than hype. Its charter identifies the true divisional champions as those who defeat their rightful predecessor and holds that the first two ranked contenders alone can contest a vacant divisional throne.
Mayweather has been ranked #1 at welterweight since the board’s inaugural rankings were published in October 2012.
Pacquiao has been ranked #2 since defeating Timothy Bradley in April 2014.
The welterweight throne has been vacant since Mayweather retired in June 2008. Despite his subsequent and very successful return to the ring, the first two contenders have opted to fight lower-ranked opponents for belts instead of each other for the throne.
May 2 is thus expected to bring much-needed clarity to the division and to boxing itself.
Mayweather-Pacquiao, besides being a boon to boxing purists, also carries unprecedented historical gravitas.
The board’s boxing historians agree that no more than two fighters have emerged as genuine four-division champions since the Marquis of Queensberry rules ushered in the gloved era over a century ago.
—Those two fighters are Mayweather and Pacquiao.
Mayweather won divisional crowns at Jr. lightweight (1998), lightweight (2002), welterweight (2006), and Jr. middleweight (2013); while Pacquiao’s four crowns were won at flyweight (1998), featherweight (2003), Jr. lightweight (2008), and Jr. welterweight (2009).
The board’s boxing historians also agree that if Pacquiao wins on May 2, he will become the first five-division champion in the record books.
Given that the welterweight division is one of the original eight, or “glamour” divisions, a Pacquiao win would also see him join a very exclusive club of triple champions. That club currently has two members.
The first is New Zealand’s Bob Fitzsimmons, who took the middleweight, light heavyweight, and heavyweight crowns between 1891 and 1903. Fitzsimmons was followed by American Henry Armstrong, who successfully stormed the featherweight, lightweight, and welterweight divisions in seven months between 1937 and 1938 and held all three simultaneously for exactly twenty-eight days.
If the Filipino ends the undefeated run of Mayweather to add the welterweight crown to his flyweight and featherweight crowns, he will join Fitzsimmons and Armstrong to become only the third undisputable triple glamour-division champion in boxing history.
For more information about the Transnational Boxing Rankings Board, please visit us at www.tbrb.org and on twitter @TBRBoard.
Wednesday, March 11, 2015
Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs Manny Pacquiao press conference live stream
Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao will once again meet face to face for their press conference this afternoon (4:30 PM EST) in Los Angeles.
Mayweather and Pacquiao will meet again for the press conference of their May 2 mega-fight set in Las Vegas. The Los Angeles press conference will be Floyd and Manny's third face to face encounter that happen this year. The American pound-for-pound kingpin and the eight division champion had a chance met-up in Miami-Bucks basketball game and followed by a meeting inside Pacquiao's hotel room. The first two encounter had a huge impact to the success of the fight negotiation.
Saturday, March 7, 2015
Amnat Ruenroeng retains title in Zou Shiming's home turf
The popular opinion is that defending flyweight champion Amnat Ruenroeng may not get fair judging in Zou Shiming's home turf in Cotai Arena, in Macau.
But Ruenroeng did just enough to defend his title against China's boxing poster boy, two-time Olympic gold medalist Zou Shiming. And the judges' reflected the same on their respective scorecards. Amnat won on all three judges' 116-111 for the unanimous decision victory over Shiming over 12 rounds of awkward and a whole lot of clinching in the last five rounds.
Ruenroeng's effective jab and ala-Hopkin's defensive stuff carried the day. Obviously, he did just enough to win, the way a defending champion can retain a title. But it is not an impressive win at all. I even scored close rounds to Shiming, and had him winning in my unofficial scorecards. But I understood the obvious also that Shiming not able to do the way a challenger would do to wrestle the title from the champion.
Shiming (6-1, KO1) was not able to figure out the right technique to be the effective aggressor when he chooses to be the aggressor half way to the fight. Amnat was wise enough to clinch every time Shiming mounts an attack to limit effectiveness.
In the first round, Ruenroeng (15-0, 5 KO's) was the aggressor as Shiming started slow as usual. Amnat open up the first combination that caught Shiming. In the second, Shiming scored a knockdown that looks like a slip, although from another angle it looks like Shiming landed a left hand before Ruenroeng went down.
In the third round, Amnat executed a popular MMA move. He took Shiming down hard to the floor. Referee Mark Nelson gave stern warning to give a clean fight. But those words seemed ineffective as both men tried to takedown each other everytime they clinch throughout the fight.
The fourth round was more of a chess match as both men stood their ground but not throwing punches. They're anticipating each other's move waiting for opening and ready to counter.
In the next three rounds Zou, 33 years old, pick up the pace and was stalking the champion but still was not able to keep the punches going. Amnat, 35 years old, doubling up the jab, landing them, as Shiming tries to come in. He also limited Shiming aggression once he (Shiming) closes the gap by tying him up.
The championship round showed no urgency from Shiming although he was the aggressor and might won them being the attacker. But Amnat's well executed clinching limits Shiming's output from the inside. And the champion also wisely used the entire ring. And his punch that carried him the victory -- his jab.
Shiming in my opinion was being rushed to become a world champion. He was matched with Ruenroeng because it looks like Amnat is a beatable champion in flyweight. And in fact Shining defeated him in the amateurs. But now that he lost to Amnat it seemed the way to become a flyweight titlist is difficult based on his performance with Ruenroeng.
The other titlists were; pound-for-pound number 3 and flyweight true champion Roman Gonzalez; pound for pound number 9 and flyweight number one contender Juan Francisco Estrada according to the Transnational Boxing Rankings Board.
Hence, I can only figure out a rematch if you will ask me what is next for Zou Shiming?
Monday, March 2, 2015
Mayweather-Pacquiao news conference on March 11
Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao will meet again on March 11 for the news conference for their scheduled mega-fight on May 2 at the MGM Grand Las Vegas, Nevada. The venue of the news conference will be determined soon by Los Angeles organizers.
"They will meet at a news conference at a location to be determined in Los Angeles, organizers announced Monday." Dan Rafael of ESPN reported. Rafael reported further that the fighters are obligated to show-up only for two news conferences as spelled out in the fight contract.
The promotion will not do the usual 10-city press conference since this fight already got a lot of hype and attention.
To my surprise, there's a unusual news for the media-men -- you better start applying now for your credential for the news conference.
"While the event is not open to the public, it is sure to draw fans hoping to catch a glimpse of the fighters. It is also expected to draw such a large contingent of media that media members must apply for credentials to be admitted to the news conference, which is unusual."
Sunday, March 1, 2015
Floyd in hiring Ariza had Pacquiao well scouted
Floyd Mayweather Jr. hired former Manny Pacquiao conditioning coach Alex Ariza. He signed Ariza sometime in September 2014 when he prepared for Marcos Maidana rematch.
Prior to signing with Floyd's camp for two years contract as the new conditioning coach, Ariza also worked with Robert Garcia to help prepare Maidana for thier first Mayweather bout.
Ariza also helped Brandon Rios train for his fight with Pacquiao in Macau. He was released after the Mayweather-Maidana first bout due to seemingly conflicting with Robert Garcia.
Ariza was fired from the Pacquiao camp due to conflicts with Freddie Roach. The conflict even escalated to physical confrontation.
Many believed that signing Ariza is just a mere publicity stunt for Mayweather's camp to hype the rematch.
But I think, Floyd signing Ariza is not just a promotional maneuver. It could be. But I look at it as part of Floyd's preparation for his upcoming mega fight with Pacquiao.
If there's someone else knows the inside out of Pacquiao regorous training apart from coach Freddie Roach -- that's Alex Ariza.
Mayweather's camp would certainly benefit from the first hand information that Ariza had. It could be ranging from the techniques, movements, training and preparation that Pacquiao may used against Mayweather.
I'm not surprise when I read one article that quote's Floyd Mayweather Sr. saying that they had Pacquiao very well "scouted".
Freddie Roach said in a separate report that he had a different game plan for Pacquiao against Mayweather.
But at this point I'm certain with one thing. Floyd has already a slight edge from the preparation and training standpoint. He had Pacquiao well scouted.