Mendoza retains title, decisions Melindo

Light flyweight titlist Javier Mendoza retains title, decisions Melindo on Saturday night in Mexico. The official scores were: 60-52, 60-52 and 59-53.

The fight was stopped in the sixth round as Mendoza (24-2-1, 19KO's) unfit to continue resulting from a deep cut over his left eye from an accidental clash of heads.

Melindo (32-2, 12KO's) begins with the wrong foot and got warning from referee for a low blow early in Round 1. In the fifth round, he was deducted a point for repeated low blows.

It remains to be seen if Melindo could become a world champion. So far, he failed on his second attempt. AJ Banal, Melindo's stable mate, suffered the same fate.

Milan Melindo battles Javier Mendoza for second world title attempt

[caption id="attachment_5710" align="alignnone" width="1526"] Milan (left) with Retech (right) at the "D-Day" boxing card in Manila[/caption]

The 27 year old flyweight contender Milan Melindo will be on the road to challenge Javier Mendoza's IBF world light Flyweight title at Campo Nuevo Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico.

Melindo (32-1, 12 KO's) who hails from Cagayan de Oro, will attempt to win a world title at the lower weight class this time . He's campaigning at the flyweight division in his previous bouts. But he moved back down to flyweight in his latest outing against Saul Juarez, whom he decisions in 12 rounds. Also in this fight he will move back down to light flyweight's 108 lbs limit.  This will be Melindo's second attempt for world title.

The then undefeated Melindo, who now resides in Cebu City, got his first opportunity to fight for world title at flyweight's 112 lbs. limit in 2013. He was pitted against number 8 pound-for-pound best today in the sport of boxing according to the Transnational Boxing Rankings Board in Juan Francisco Estrada.

Melindo started well in the first half of the fight. But he was outworked in the later rounds and was down in round 11 en route to unanimous decision loss.

In his second bid for the world title, Melindo will be fighting in front of Mendoza's hometown crowd. It's perceived that Melindo needs to score a knockout in order to secure a win. But Edito "Ala" Villamor, ALA's head trainer believes that there's no need for KO. But "he (Melindo) needs to win impressively in every round" reiterates Villamor in Filipino.

Both Melindo and Mendoza registered 107.2 lbs on the scales during the official weigh-in on Friday.

Amir Khan edges offense-minded Chris Algieri

[caption id="attachment_5703" align="alignnone" width="630"][/caption]

Amir Khan, as expected, as predicted, wins against Chris Algieri. But in a totally different way. It's not one way traffic. It's not dominating, though it's a convincing win. Khan earned the win the hard way for their welterweight clash at Barclays Center in Brooklyn on Spike TV.

From the get-go Khan, started with the right foot and everything went well and won the first three rounds. He’s throwing fast combinations and then disengaged.

In the fourth round, Algieri, somehow sensing he lost the first three rounds, pumped up his offense accelerator and started pressuring Khan. He landed some solid right hand counters that Khan felt but obviously not hurt.

After the fight, Khan (31-3, 19 KO) admits and says he “had to change it up and go to plan B”. He’s surprised for sure. Algieri was not the Algieri that defeated Ruslan Provodnikov or the Algieri Manny Pacquiao defeated in Macau.

But Khan’s adjustment to an offense-minded Algieri worked out. He landed more precise shots, creating angles and fired fast combinations. The judges’ got it right to the tune of: 15-113, 117-111, and 117-111.

Khan reiterates again his desire to fight Mayweather. “I'm the No. 1 WBC contender, Mayweather's the champion, let's make it happen’ says Khan.

With Khan’s performance tonight, I think Khan proves he has the ability to adjust his style in real time. He adapted to Algieri’s forward style, which I believed he’s not trained mainly for.

Adjustment in real time is another essential skill Khan should add to his armament, if he ever dances with Money in the same ring in September.

Look: Kell Brook vs Frankie Gavin viewing order

Saturday night's "Rule Britannia" card will be viewed according to the official running order shown on the below graphic. Plan your Saturday night accordingly folks! Check the below graphic out.

Watch: Kell Brook vs Frankie Gavin weigh-in

Watch the full Kell Brook vs Frankie Gavin weigh-in video at the O2 Arena in London. Brook promises to take Frankie Gavin's "head off" during weigh-in ahead of their welterweight clash on Saturday night.

Watch: Amir Khan greatest hits

Video: HBO Sports

James DeGale outpoints Andre Dirrell, wins SMW title

James Degale vs. Andre Dirrell started surprisingly early tonight. And I thought DeGale got an early stoppage win.

British Olympic gold medalist James DeGale almost had a short work on American Andre Dirrell for their super middleweight bout at the Agganis Arena, Boston on PBC on NBC.

DeGale (21-1, 14KO's) dropped Dirrell twice in second round for a clear 10-7 round. A hard left from DeGale dropped Dirrell like a sack of potatoes. Dirrell got up, only to visit the canvass again around 18 seconds remaining in the round.  If the knockdown happened early in the round, DeGale could be in the UK before 8 p.m. Dirrell was on shaky legs going back to his corner.

"I'm fine! I'm fine!" exclaims Dirrell to his somewhat panicking corner.

Surprisingly in the third, it looked like there's no sign of a brutal twin knockdown Dirrell endured in the second round. He landed couple of jabs and a solid left. He was able to re-establish composure.

Dirrell (24-2, 16KO's) was able to recover instantly and started re-grouping and chipping DeGale's early lead from round 4 onward. As the fight went on, Dirrell's confident was growing. I have the fight a draw in the championship round.

In the final two rounds Degale took over and landed the harder blows and won those two rounds. DeGale won via unanimous decision with the scores of 114-112, 114-122 and 117-109. The result was right. The two judges got it right. But 117-109 was not fine.

Alexander Povetkin vs Mike Perez results: Povetkin brutally stops Perez in Round 1

Alexander Povetkin brutally stops Mike Perez in 91 seconds, in the very first round, of their heavyweight clash in Luzhniki, Moscow in Russia on Friday and becomes the mandatory challenger for Deontay Wilder’s heavyweight title.

Povetkin (29-1, 21KO’s) wobbled Perez with a powerful right hand to the chest, 2:21 minute mark. Again another right hand landed but this time put Perez to the floor at around 1:48 mark. I thought at that point Perez had enough and the fight is over.

Perez (21-2-1, 13KO’s) was able to beat the count and referee Massimo Barrovecchio allowed him to continue. A couple of shots from Povetkin put down again Perez and the referee stops the fight without counting.

It was the most spectacular Povetkin performance tonight. I see a Klitschko rematch in the near future if Povetkin get past Wilder if their fight materializes.

Here are the rest of Alexander Povetkin vs Mike Perez results

Grigory Drozd TKO9 Lukasz Janik

Grigory Drozd (40-1, 27 KO's) retains WBC cruiserweight title by stopping Lukasz Janik (28-3, 15KO's) in Round 9. Referee Ian John-Lewis stops the contest around 2:07 mark of the ninth round. Drozd pummels Janik with couple of hard lefts and rights that opted the referee to stepped in.

Rakhim Chakhkiev KO8 Junior Anthony Wright

Beijing Olympic gold medalist Rakhim Chakhkiev (23-1, 18 KO's) knocks out Junior Anthony Wright (22-2, 17 KO's) with a cracking left hand to the body that sends Wright crashing to the floor at 2:29 in Round 8 of their cruiserweight title match.

Dmitry Kudryashov TKO 6 Vikapita Meroro

Dmitry Kudryashov stops Vikapita Meroro in Round 6 at Luzhniki, Moscow in Russia.

The pro-Kudryashov crowd keep chanting Kudryashov name from round 1. But it took more than the expected round for Kudryashov to finish the job at hand. Kudryashov is very tentative in his offense in the the first four rounds, although his walking Meroro. He keeps coming but not able to get through his offense as Meroro smartly clinch as Kudryashov try to execute his offense. Read More...

Dmitry Kudryashov stops Vikapita Meroro in Six

Dmitry Kudryashov stops Vikapita Meroro in Round 6 at Luzhniki, Moscow in Russia.

The pro-Kudryashov crowd keep chanting Kudryashov name from round 1. But it took more than the expected round for Kudryashov to finish the job at hand. Kudryashov is very tentative in his offense in the the first four rounds, although his walking Meroro. He keeps coming but not able to get through his offense as Meroro smartly clinch as Kudryashov try to execute his offense.

In my unofficial scorecards Meroro is ahead through Round 4. But in Round 5 it's obvious that Kudryashov is taking over. He was able to wear down Meroro. In round six Kudryashov scores a knockdown. Meroro (28-5, 14KO's) gets up and continue but with unsteady legs. Kudryashov steps up his offense and lands a body shot that put down Meroro again for good.

With the win Kudryashov maintains his perfect record, 18 wins, 18 by knockouts, no defeats.

"Pinoy Pride" will be back in Dubai in a much bigger venue

ALA Promotions' successful "Pinoy Pride" series will be back in Dubai. And it was earlier planned to take place on June 12 in a much bigger venue.

ALA Promotions' CEO and President Michael Aldeguer have been working on two international events: In the US and Dubai. "Pinoy Pride" will debut in the US as California State Athletic Commission has released their license to stage events in the US.

The series will be back in Dubai, in a much bigger venue, after a successful debut in September 2014. But the event could be push back to August.

"Actually there is no postponement because we have not formally launched it yet. We are targeting it for August because of a bigger venue", explains Aldeguer as quoted on The Freeman.

Aldequer's plan to stage the fight in a much bigger venue is good news not only for the fans but also for the local media.

"Pinoy Pride" Dubai debut lost opportunity to get featured by local media. Gulf News reports that local newspaper trying to cover 'Pinoy Pride 27: Duel in Dubai' were in a "rude shock" after being told that there was no allocated seating for the media.

Aldequer was apologetic though: “I am extremely sorry for what has happened. Hopefully, things will get better next time,” he said.

With the bigger venue, I think things will indeed get better this time. Not just for the local and international media that will cover the event but for the boxing fans. The bigger venue can accommodate more boxing fans this time. And the fighters will get exposure from the local media with following not just in Dubai but in GCC areas, home of 2.5 million OFWs.

The event will still be held at the Dubai Convention Center.

"It will still be held at the Dubai Convention Center but in a bigger place, double of what it was last year", says Aldequer.

Watch: Filipino Eden Sonsona shocks undefeated Mexican Adrian Estrella

Cousin of former world super flyweight titlist Marvin Sonsona, Eden Sonsona knocks out unbeaten Adrian Estrella of Mexico in Round 2 of their bout Auditorio Miguel Barragan, San Luis Potosí, Mexico for the WBC International suoer featherweight title.

Golovkin stops Monroe, gets 20th straight stoppage win

[caption id="attachment_5588" align="alignnone" width="730"] Photo: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]

Watching Gennady "GGG" Golovkin and Roman "Empire" Gonzalez perform against separate opponents was perhaps the best way to move on from Mayweather-Pacquiao disappointment.

With just two televised cards fulfilled my craving for action and entertainment for the sport of boxing.

Golovkin (33-0, 30KO's) put on an electrifying performance dropping the slick southpaw Willie Monroe Jr. several times, and ultimately stopped Monroe in Round 6 on Saturday night at the Forum in Inglewood, California on HBO Boxing. With the win Golovkin collected his 20th straight stoppage victory and 14th consecutive title defense.

Gonzalez (43-0, 37 KO's) also did his part and wowed US fans on his HBO debut, whacking out veteran Edgar Sosa (51-9, 30KO's) in two exciting rounds.

“I feel great. My special performance for you guys. Thank you for my team. Thank you for my opponent he bring beautiful drama show…” says Golovkin after the fight.

In the first round Golovkin was so accurate with his punches cracking Monroe with hard left hooks and straight rights. Monroe’s initial game plan was to outbox Golovkin from outside but had no success in doing so.

"I gave him chance. I said come on lets go, bring big drama show. Let's go", says Golovkin when Kellerman asked why Monroe managed to land big shots at him after dominating the first three rounds.

In the second, Golovkin blasted Monroe with a straight left hook to the head -- the sneakiest one-punch knockdown I've ever seen in boxing. Monroe was able to get up but then again went down from another shot. It looks like it will end from there. But Monroe to his credit was able to finish the round.

Monroe came back in the fourth round, fighting from inside forehead to forehead. He obviously changed his game plan and start connecting counters, backing up Golovkin a little bit.

In the fifth, Golovkin start working again unleashing power shots from the distance.

After a solid fifth, Golovkin came out with real bad intention in the sixth, pouring heavy shots that sent Monroe down for the third time.

Monroe was able to get up, but when referee Jack Reiss if he wants to continue. "I'm done", says Monroe.

After the fight, Golovkin calling out names. He wants the number one in the middleweight.

"I want unification! I want big big fights! Let's go, let's do it guys. Who is number one right now? Bring him now, I'll show you" exclaims Golovkin.

"I'm ready for Canelo… to Miguel great champion."

Gennady Golovkin vs Willie Monroe Jr preview

Golovkin has been punching his way to stardom knocking out opponents here and there.

The undefeated Golovkin (32-0, 29 KO’s) will defend his middleweight titles against Willie Monroe Jr. on Saturday night at the Forum in Inglewood California on HBO Boxing.

He has a stunning record of 19 consecutive wins by way of knockouts. He's been steamrolling contenders after contenders in the middleweight division. From Gabriel Rosado, to tough British MW contender Martin Murray, the Kazakh" good boyed" and laid them on the canvas for good. He whipped tough Mexican Marco Antonio Rubio to submission in two rounds making Rubio look like he dived on that fight.

Golovkin picked apart Daniele Geale, dropping several times before stopping in Round 3. Mathew Macklin perceived to be the toughest test for Golovkin at the buildup of the fight. But Golovkin stopped him in round three.
Heavy handed, Curtis Stevens a stiff test for Golovkin of how he'll handle the power of similarly heavy handed opponent. Golovkin handled Stevens's power. But Stevens can't handle Golovkin's power. Stevens retired in Round 8.

Too many tests, Golovkin pass them all with flying colors. I think he needs the final exams now. Golovkin, 33, needs it from a champion for the fight fans to know which level he is at right now.

We'll what we have is Willie Monroe Jr. Does Monroe have the toughest test paper? I doubt. But he might bring one subject from the entire exams -- craftiness aside from being a southpaw.

Monroe (19-0, 6 KO’s) has good amateur background. He has a slick southpaw style. He won ESPN's Boxcino middleweight tournament and handled Brandon Vera with ease in January.

My Prediction:

I think Golovkin's tremendous pressure will overwhelm Monroe. Golovkin will come in not just moving forward. He'll come in a systematic way that he'll not get hit easy with counters. He has good footwork. He'll come calm. He'll come in not head first but fist first. Not just fist first but two heavy fists coming in like pistons pumping up a huge bulldozer machine. Golovkin wins by knockout in the late rounds.

Weights: Golovkin 159, Monroe 160, Gonzalez 111, Sosa 112.2

For tomorrow's HBO Boxing event, undefeated Gennady "GGG"Golovkin (32-0, 29 KO's) hit the scale and weighed one pound under the middleweight limit at 159 lbs. Willie Monroe Jr. (19-0, 6 KO's) tip the scale and weighed spot on the middleweight limit 160 lbs.

For the undercard, undefeated Roman Gonzalez (42-0, 36 KO's) weighed 111 lbs. and Edgar Sosa (51-8, 30 KO's) weighed 112.2 lbs. He was .2 pound above the limit.

Watch: Gennady Golovkin vs Willie Monroe Jr. live weigh-in

Watch Gennady Golovkin and Willie Monroe Jr. hop on the scales today at 4:00 p.m., EST for Saturday night's HBO main event.

Watch: Gennady Golovkin greatest hits

Video: HBO Boxing

Watch undefeated Gennady Golovkin's greatest hits. Golovkin set to face Willie Monroe Jr. at the Forum, Inglewood, California on Saturday night.

Demarcus Corley vs Manuel Perez set on May 16

Road Warrior, Proven Champion...he’s heard it all & almost done it all. He’s never been one after
fame & never has he once came out of character. Still he has dreams & goals.

Fastly approaching 41 years old, DeMarcus “Chop Chop” Corley knows the windows of opportunity on achieving those goals are closing for him from boxing promoters & much bigger shows. 

He knows that he’s probably going to be an afterthought fighting on the same weekend as two of boxing sports exciting Champions in GGG and Chocolito. This Saturday, May 16th Corley (42-22) faces another obstacle & formidable opponent in his hometown of Colorado in Manuel “Manos” Perez (22-11).

Both Perez & Corley have had their fair share of facing & sparring with World Class Champions. Corley knows what’s at stake & feels that this is his time, a time now to make a statement to put to boxing world on notice once again. By speaking with Corley, he has a rage inside him in which many that are close to him has never seen in which he plans on using in his upcoming fight against Perez. 

Less than a year ago, Corley was honored at the “Night of Champions” as one of the few to come out of the Nation’s Capitol as a World Champion. Corley still feels that DC doesn’t really care about him. 

Maybe this is where some of the rage sets in. Maybe it’s from promoters stating Corley is too experienced, he’s a southpaw, or has nothing left. Far too often we hear these statements, but not from someone like Corley or someone like Perez. Both are ready to put on a show. Perez is game ready & Corley has been on this stage plenty of times himself. 

Even though this weekend GGG & Chocolito will get most of the publicity from the boxing world, a potential barn-burner in Corley vs Perez will be happening almost at the exact same time. The fight this Sat. May 16th can be viewed online via Ustream.com under the promotion brought to you by Duran Hill, “Sting Lke A Bee Entertainment.”

Mayweather-Pacquiao crushes boxing revenue records

The mega-fight between two top stars in boxing, Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao on May 2, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, in Las Vegas generates mind blowing revenue that crushes existing boxing revenue record.

As per report from ESPN's Dan Rafael Mayweather-Pacquiao generated $72,198,500 from the sale of 16,219 tickets sold at the venue.

The Mayweather-Pacquiao fight blew away the old gate record set by Mayweather's junior middleweight title unification victory against Canelo Alvarez in 2013. That fight, also at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, generated $20,003,150 from the sale of 16,146 tickets to break the record set by Mayweather's 2007 junior middleweight title victory against Oscar De La Hoya, which generated $18,419,200 from the sale of 15,423 tickets to the MGM Grand.

Here's the breakdown of the gate revenue according to the Rafael's report:

[caption id="attachment_5548" align="alignnone" width="691"] Breakdown of Mayweather-Pacquiao gate revenue[/caption]

Unsold/Complimentary tickets breakdown:

[caption id="attachment_5549" align="alignnone" width="949"] Breakdown of unsold/complimentary tickets[/caption]

Highest-grossing Pay-Per-View of all time

Mayweather-Pacquiao is now also the highest-grossing pay-per-view of all time by generating more than 4.4 million U.S. buys and more than $400 million in domestic pay-per-view revenue alone, at a rate of $89 for normal cable $99 for HD per subscription.

With additional revenue from the live gate at MGM Grand in Las Vegas, international television distribution, sponsorships, closed circuit and merchandise sales, the event is expected to generate in excess of $500 million in gross worldwide receipts. The news was announced jointly by Showtime Networks Inc., a subsidiary of CBS Corporation, and HBO in conjunction with event promoters Mayweather Promotions and Top Rank, Inc.

What a number!!!

But the fight didn't live up to expectation to most boxing fans, especially to casual fans.

Look: Astronomical Mayweather-Pacquiao revenue numbers

Mayweather-Pacquiao numbers are in and above is the breakdown of the gate revenue. I've written the full breakdown here: http://shuttlepenboxing.com/2015/05/mayweather-pacquiao-crushes-boxing-revenue-records.html

Canelo delivers thunderous third round knockout against Kirkland

[caption id="attachment_5544" align="alignnone" width="701"] (Photo by Ed Mulholland/Golden Boy/Golden Boy via Getty Images)[/caption]

HOUSTON (May 10) - In front of more than 31,000 raucous fans Minute Maid Park in Houston, super  welterweight sensation Mexico's Canelo Alvarez (45-1-1, 32 KOs) knocked out Texas' James "Mandingo Warrior" Kirkland (32-2, 28 KOs) with a thunderous right hand in the middle of the third-round, capping a sensational performance that saw the 24-year-old drop Kirkland in the first and deliver a number of huge shots before the eventual end of the fight. The fight was broadcast live on HBO World Championship Boxing®.

"This was one of the best knockouts of my career," Canelo Alvarez said following the fight. "He came out with a little bit of a different style than I was expecting, but I was able to adjust and get the knockout. I knew he was strong fighter but he surprised me with his aggressiveness in the first and second round. I fight for the fans, and I'll fight anyone, anywhere, anytime."  Alvarez connected on an astounding 60 percent of his power shots, landing 79 of them inside of three rounds.

"I didn't know I was knocked out," said James Kirkland. "I had him trapped and hurt in the corner in the first round but he escaped, I had him hurt in the second also. He's a great champion, I'm proud that I was able to compete in such a terrific event, and I hope to fight him again someday. I'm a warrior, I'll be back."

"Canelo vs. Kirkland on May 9 was the real Cinco de Mayo weekend fight that fans wanted," said Oscar De La Hoya, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions. "We promised them a war, we promised them action, and that is exactly what they got with this fight."

"I'm proud of him, he's a true warrior and I'm going to get him back with Ann Wolfe," said Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, Founder and Chairman of SMS Promotions, said of Kirkland after the fight.

"I am very happy about the fight, it was intense from round one. We want to thank Kirkland for taking this fight and for giving the fans an exciting night," said Jose "Chepo" Reynoso, manager and trainer for Canelo Alvarez. "This fight showed the result of 17 intense weeks of training and we are very satisfied with the result."

"I'm happy we won the fight," said Eddy Reynoso, head trainer for Canelo Alvarez. "This is the result of a successful camp. Kirkland did surprise us in the beginning, but Canelo was able to find him and adjust to his rhythm and overpower him. I want to thank the team that made this fight happen and all the fans that continue to support us."

With official attendance of 31,588, Minute Maid Park was rocking from the opening bell, and Alvarez delivered for them not only with a huge knockout, but with a pledge to fight in Texas once a year.

2012 U.S. Olympian Joseph "Jo Jo" Diaz, Jr. (16-0, 10 KOs)closed the undercard with an electric performance, outlasting a savvy Giovanni "Lloviznas" Delgado (15-3, 9 KOs) in a 10-round unanimous decision.

"I feel great that I was able to go the distance and show more of my skills instead of just another knockout," said Diaz. "Delgado was very tough and durable but my skills were better. I'm thrilled to fight here on such a big stage and look forward to getting back in the ring soon."

"Diaz, is very fast and it was difficult finding my rhythm," Delgado said.  "I did get very tired trying to keep up with his pace and it was difficult to find him, but I also feel like I did shake him in the last few rounds. I am disappointed that I lost all I can do now is go back to the gym and train harder."

Heavyweight 7-foot-tall Chinese sensation Taishan (4-0, 2 KOs) stayed undefeated in a four-round slugfest, outpointing Jamal Woods (6-19, 6 KOs), and winning by majority decision. "I feel really thrilled to be representing the millions of people in China today especially on one of the most attended cards of the year," Taishan said. "I feel like my opponent had more experience than I do but that doesn't mean he was more skillful. Today, my strength, reach and powerful jab was what got me the win."

Slick, undefeated Welterweight KeAndre Gibson (13-0-1, 5 KOs) bolstered his record with a 10-round unanimous decision over a game Jorge Romero. In an impressive victory, Gibson pitched a shutout on all three judges' cards. "I had a tough opponent, a veteran," Gibson said. "I think I did well. I will fight whoever next. It was a good experience to fight in front of a crowd like this. Look at all these people."

Savvy veteran Joshua "Grand Master" Clottey (39-4, 22 KOs) outlasted Jorge Silva(20-9-2, 16 KOs), in a 10-round match-up of Super Welterweights. Clottey, a former world title holder dominated the action from the get-go, shutting out Silva on two judges' cards en route to a unanimous decision.

Up-and-coming and undefeated super lightweight Ryan "Blue Chip" Martin (13-0, 8 KOs) made it an early afternoon in Houston, knocking out Ivan "El Oso" Zavala (7-10-2, 3 KOs) inside two minutes of the first round. The Tennessee native was all over Zavala from the opening bell, ending the fight with a massive shot to the ear. "I'm sorry my fans didn't get to see more of me, but I took care of business," Martin said. "I'm looking forward to my next fight and showcasing my skills further."

In a tight eight-round affair, Austin, Texas-based Super Lightweight Curtis Meeks (10-1-2, 3 KOs) fought through a shoulder injury to win a tough majority decision over Ramsey Luna (12-3, 5 KOs). Both fighters landed flurries of rights and lefts to the head and body, but Meeks was more precise with his punches, edging out the victory in front of the hometown Texas fans. "I'm winning, even if it's with one arm," Meeks said. [Luna] put on a good fight today, but I would have knocked him out inside four if I hadn't hurt my shoulder."

In his third fight as a professional, Featherweight prospect Crescencio Ramos (3-0, 2 KOs) gave a sizzling performance in a one-sided victory, knocking down Cody Walker (1-5) twice before the referee stepped in to stop the fight before the end of the first round. "I wanted to use my speed; my speed and my body shots," Ramos said.

Local fan-favorite Alfonso "El Tigre" Lopez (24-3, 19 KOs) landed a devastating counter left hook in the second round to deliver a huge knockout against Lester "El Cubanito" Gonzalez (12-17-4, 6 KOs).  "I wanted to stay consistent, stay relaxed and let the counter-shot come," Lopez said. "We knew that he was slick, so I wanted to use my boxing skills, set up the shot. Only stages like this will being the absolute best fighting out of you."

In a battle of undefeated Super Featherweights, Joseph Rodriguez (9-0, 2 KOs) kept his "O" with a hard-fought majority decision over formerly undefeated Luis Guevera (3-1-1, 2 KOs). Mixing speed, power and defense the San Antonio-based Rodriguez came out on top on two of the judges cards, including a shutout on one. "I picked my shots and the right times to turn it on. I took my time and was a savvy veteran"

In an all-Mexican Super Bantamweight showdown, Rodrigo "Gatito" Guerrero (23-5-1, 16 KOs) emerged victorious over Arturo "Fuerte" Badillo (20-7, 18KOs) when a barrage of shots from Guerrero forced Badillo to retire at the end of the 7th round. "It wasn't an easy fight," Guerrero, from Mexico City, Mexico said. "My focus has always been to fight for a world title, and I'm hopeful that's next for me."

In the opening fight from Houston, undefeated light heavyweight Armando "III" Pina (6-0, 6 KOs) stayed perfect with a second round knockout of Zacharia Kelley (4-11, 4 KOs). After working the body early in the second, Pina went upstairs to finish the fight. "He's a short guy, so I know I had to take some air out of him," Pina, a Chicago native said. About his future, Pina said, "I'm Just staying dedicated and working real hard. There are no limits."

Canelo drops, stops Kirkland in Three

[caption id="attachment_5536" align="alignnone" width="720"] AP Photo/Bob Levey[/caption]

The expected war turns out to be a war! Not like Mayweather-Pacquiao.

It was a short war. But it was a war! Not like Mayweather-Pacquiao.

Former 154-pound titlist Saul "Canelo" Alvarez (45-1-1, 32 KOs) delivered a spectacular performance on Saturday night at Minute Maid Park, in Houston, Texas. Canelo pounded his way into a third round knockout of James Kirkland in front of his strong supporters.

In the first round, Kirkland, to his credit, was marching towards Canelo firing shots as he always does. But Canelo’s accurate hard counters made it obvious that the fight could be a war but would not take long. Kirkland was on deck less than two minutes. He barely survived. But he survived.

“Once I dropped him the first time I knew I had him,” Alvarez said.

Kirkland (32-2, 28 KOs) is such a warrior. In the second round, he once again attacks Canelo. But Canelo caught him with a hook that hurt him once again. Kirkland stood his ground and retaliates as much as he could. He was able to pressed Canelo towards the ropes as Canelo looking tired to end Round 2.

In the third, Kirkland did not adjust strategy; again he marched right away towards Canelo hoping he will tire him a bit. But a huge uppercut from Canelo caught him coming in. Down goes Kirkland for the second time. He got up. Fought on. But at 2:19 mark Canelo connects a beautiful but brutal overhand right on the chin. Kirkland is out. It started with a left to body, bringing down Kirkland’s defense. Then the sweeping right hand followed.

“I’m happy about the win. The result was what I expected”, says Canelo.

Canelo-Kirkland weigh-in live streaming

Mayweather on Pacquiao rematch: I changed my mind

“Did I text Stephen A. Smith and say I will fight him again? Yeah, but I change my mind,” said Mayweather. “At this particular time, no, because he’s a sore loser and he’s a coward… If you lost, accept the loss and say, ‘Mayweather, you were the better fighter.’”

Aaarghhh!!!

Well, I'm not surprised about this change of heart of Mayweather regarding his earlier offer of a possible rematch with Pacquiao. History of Mayweather's contradictory statement in the past conditions my mind. I know he would retract his statement for a possible rematch.

But this time, I think Mayweather has a valid point to change his mind, because Pacquiao is not the same Pacquiao who handled defeat versus Bradley. Pacquiao was gracious with his defeat against Bradley in their first encounter.  In 2012 Pacquiao lost a controversial decision over Timothy Bradley.

Pacquiao claimed he won the fight versus Mayweather and Bradley, which he actually lost in the judges' scorecards.  He had a strong case versus Bradley. Majority if not all boxing fans and the media members believed Pacquaio won. But against Mayweather, Pacquiao's legion of fans believed he won but few members of the media believed so.

During the post-fight conference, Pacquiao disclosed that he suffered shoulder "injury" three weeks before the fight.

Although, he pointed out he's not taking his injury as an excuse. "I did my best, but my best wasn't good enough, says Pacquiao during the post-fight presscon.

But after the presscon, things happened differently.

The way Pacquiao handled his defeat put him on the media spotlight, instead of the media talking about how Mayweather brilliantly defeated the best offensive fighter. I think Mayweather did not like it.

But what if Pacquiao said, ‘Mayweather, you were the better fighter', which is what Mayweather wanted, do you think we have a rematch?

Alvarez-Kirkland final press conference quotes & photos

[caption id="attachment_5516" align="alignnone" width="763"] Hogan Photos/Golden Boy Promotions[/caption]

LIVE ON HBO WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING ® FROM MINUTE MAID PARK ON MAY 9

HOUSTON (May 7) - Canelo Alvarez and James "Mandingo Warrior" Kirkland hosted the final press conference in Houston on Thursday, May 7 ahead of their showdown on May 9 at Minute Maid Park and live on HBO World Championship Boxing ®. Golden Boy Promotions Founder and President Oscar De La Hoya, SMS Promotions Chairman and CEO Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, and Future Hall of Famer and Golden Boy Promotions Partner Bernard Hopkinswere also in attendance to support their fighters ahead of Saturday's bout. Also in attendance were promoters Mike Battah, President of Leija*Battah Promotions and Jesse James Leija, Texas Boxing Legend and Founder of Leija*Battah Promotions.

Other fighters on the Canelo vs. Kirkland undercard in attendance at Thursday's press conference included co-main event fighter Humberto "La Zorrita" Soto (65-8-2, 35 KOs),2012 OlympianJoseph "Jojo" Diaz Jr. (15-0, 10 KOs), Chinese heavyweight sensation, Taishan (3-0, 2 KOs),KeAndre Gibson (12-0-1, 5 KOs), Joshua Clottey (38-4, 22 KOs), Ryan Martin (12-0, 7 KOs), and James Leija Jr.

Here is what the fighters and the promoters had to say at the press conference:

CANELO ALVAREZ, Former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion:

"Thank you all for being here. I want to say thank you for all of the support you have been giving me. We have worked very hard to come out with this victory.

"It's very easy to say words, but once we are in the ring, let's let the fists do the talking."

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions:

"We are excited to be once again partnering with the champion network, HBO, where everyone is guaranteed to watch the best that boxing has to offer.

"Some people weren't too content with the May 2 performances but one thing is for sure: people are very excited to watch some action with Canelo Alvarez and James Kirkland on May 9.

"As a promoter, you want to work with fighters that want to go against the very best. That is what is so exciting for me about promoting this event because that's what we'll have on May 9. The best fighting the best.

"James is one of the most decorated punchers and fighters. He brings power, and he brings excitement to ring."

JAMES KIRKLAND, Super Welterweight Contender:

"I have been looking forward to this moment for a long time. We had this fight set up once before but it was canceled due to an injury.

"My training camp has been outstanding. Canelo brings a lot to the game; he has a great team backing him. I would like to thank the fans, HBO, and everyone who will be at the fight. Thank you. Team Kirkland!"

CURTIS "50 CENT" JACKSON, Founder and Chairman of SMS Promotions:

"This is excitement. Originally, I was just passionate about boxing, I was just a fan, but now, to be a part of what could possibly be the biggest fight of the year, that is really exciting.

"I want to thank everyone, Golden Boy Promotions, Oscar De La Hoya, Bernard Hopkins, HBO, and everyone working behind the scenes to make this fight happen.

"One of my up and coming fighters for SMS Promotions, Ryan Martin, will also be fighting onMay 9.

"We will definitely get a chance to see some action on May 9 at Minute Maid Park. It's the perfect place for this fight."

HUMBERTO SOTO, Former Three-Division World Champion:

"I want to thank the promoters for bringing back this level of fighting.

"It's going to be another great fight. We have youth versus experience, and the fans are going to win. Don't miss this fight, thank you so much."

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

"Thank you everyone that participated in putting this event together. Right now, these fighters have a chance to be the 'next big thing.'

"This will be the shortest comment I've ever made: Canelo, you're healthy, right? (nod) Kirkland, you're healthy, right? (nod) Then, we're going to fight, ya'll."

Mike Battah, President of Lieja*Battah Promotions:

"When we started Leija*Battah Promotions three years ago our goal was to bring the best, fan friendly fights to Texas and years later we have proven it.

"Where else can you get a megastar like Canelo and a dangerous fighter like Kirkland fighting two or three hours from your home? We have fighters from Houston, and San Antonio, and other parts of Texas that will be on a mega-fight undercard like they have never experienced. It is important to showcase these Texas fighters on this big stage."

JESSE JAMES LEIJA, Texas Boxing Legend and Founder of Leija*Battah Promotions:

"Houston, we want you to come and bring out the best boxing fans in the world. It is the best atmosphere to be boxing in a baseball stadium.

"On May 9 at Minute Maid Park my son is making his professional boxing debut. He is a graduate of St. Mary's University. Come out and support this great event.

"I want to thank these two amazing fighters, Canelo and Kirkland in advance, because we are going to have a great night."

JOSE "CHEPO" REYNOSO, Manager and Trainer for Canelo Alvarez:

"On Saturday night we are going to see two tremendous warriors go toe to toe.

"At the end of the night Canelo will be shouting Viva Mexico with his fists."

EDDY REYNOSO, Head Trainer for Canelo Alvarez:

"At training camp we worked very hard, very dedicated. And, once again, thanks to all the press for the coverage you've given us."

PETER NELSON, HBO Sports Vice President of Programing:

"This is exactly the kind of caliber event that makes stars.

"More people are going to see this event than anything since Muhammad Ali fought here in Texas.

"I think that this is one of the signature events HBO will have this year. These are the stars of today, Canelo Alvarez and James Kirkland.

"This presents a great opportunity for Humberto Soto to bring his career back to a big stage. We are going to see fighters fulfill their potential on Saturday night."

REID RYAN, President of Business Operations for Houston:

"The fight is definitely being talked about in the City of Houston. We are very excited about this event.

"There is a buzz surrounding this event. The phone has been ringing all day at the stadium. People are excited for this event. It will be the first boxing event at Minute Maid Park."

BAY BAY McCLINTON, Strength and Conditioning Trainer to James Kirkland:

"I only train greatness. On Saturday night, you will see greatness. You are going to see a different James Kirkland.

"The last time Mexico came to Texas, remember this: remember the Alamo.

"I always ask my fighters, 'You want to be good, or you want to be great?' Tomorrow, he's [Kirkland] going to be great."

GREG ALVAREZ, Combative Sports Manager of the Texas Department of License & Regulation:

"Thank you to Golden Boy Promotions, Leija*Battah Promotions and all the people that are putting this show on.

"This is the biggest single day event Texas is going to have.

"I'm real excited for this big fight, the real fight."

(Hogan Photos/Golden Boy Promotions)

Hess produces charity single to take fighter to the top

Sheffield-based Singer songwriter, Music Producer and DJ, Damon Hess, who has collaborated  with many top class guest artists, has stepped into Ex Army Infantry boxer- turned professional fighter, Ross Burkinshaw's corner, to write and produce his own entrance music in time for his WBO Inter-Continental Bantamweight title  fight on May 30th, when he faces South African Klaas Mboyane.

Burkinshaw is yet to step out to into the ring with his own entrance music, a fact which Hess felt needed to be rectified. “Against All Odds”, release date 22nd May 2015, will not only bolster the likeable Sheffield fighter on his way to the ring, but also raise well needed funds for two of the charities Ross supports.

Upon its release to iTunes, proceeds will be split between Balls to Cancer, a charity raising funds for male cancer awareness and education and Hallam FMs Cash for Kids, a grant giving charity which supports individual children, groups and children's charities where children are sick, deprived and in need of extra support.

Sheffield, Yorkshire and UK residents all now have the opportunity to stand behind one of it’s heroes, when he will move one step closer to his title dream with the head to head clash with Mboyane at Rotherham's Magna Centre, accompanied by the musical pomp and ceremony any such prizefighter deserves.

Thank you Lord for the successful surgery in my right shoulder - Pacquiao

After a successful surgery on Wednesday, Manny Pacquiao posted on his social media with a photo of him and his wife Jinky.

Thank you Lord for the successful surgery in my right shoulder. Thank you babe for being there beside me. Thank you to...

Posted by Manny Pacquiao on Thursday, May 7, 2015

Pacquiao suffered a "significant tear" on his shoulder three weeks before the Floyd Mayweather Jr. fight. He and his team did not disclose the injury to the public. And during the weigh-in, Pacquiao's adviser, Michael Koncz did not tick the appropriate box of pre-fight NSAC questionnaire that ask about injury.

Non disclosure of the injury put Pacquiao in the limelight more than Mayweather's victory. A move that may result perjury case against the team Pacquiao.

Two Las Vegas fans file a $5 million class-lawsuit against Pacquiao. Another $300 million class-lawsuit reportedly filed in the state of Texas that includes Floyd Mayweather Jr. And I believed there might be more to come. I expect the amount would be more than the total amount of punches thrown by both fighters on May 2, even if one punch is equal to $1 million.

It is still yet to be seen the merit of the case and how district courts will handle this case.

Meanwhile, the Nevada State Athletic Commission said that they will conduct an investigation, The result of the investigation is expected to come out in June or July.

Can Kirkland inspire us once again?

"When you think you can't go on, and you keep persevering anyway..."

That was what Max Kellerman said about the fierce Junior Middleweight contender James Kirkland after he destroyed the heavily favored Alfredo Angulo in November of 2011. Kirkland, a contender resembling Iron Mike Tyson via his puncher style and ensemble, inspired Kellerman. But it was a different type of inspiration. It was not the rags to riches type of inspiration as seen in Manny Pacquiao. Nor it is Bernard Hopkins being the oldest champion in boxing history at the age of 49. And it is not the inspiration seen in Ruben "Hurricane" Carter after spending almost 20 years in prison after being wrongfully convicted of murder. No, this is a different kind of inspiration. What James Kirkland had was hard work, dedication, and most of all grit. The question is, will he have enough of it to defeat the Mexican icon, Saul "Canelo" Alvarez?

On Kirkland's training with a female trainer Ann Wolfe

Kirkland was trained by Ann Wolfe. A no nonsense trainer, that will tell you like it is faster than her slapping you upside the head. She that has broken through barriers by being one of the most respected boxing trainers in boxing today. To be a female boxing trainer is not common. To be one of the most respected boxing trainers who happens to be female, is unheard of. But she did it. And James Kirkland is the proof. Wolfe's training methods were very unorthodox. She would have Kirkland running and hitting a heavy bag as it hung from a truck. She would have Kirkland sparring in a significantly smaller, makeshift ring with men almost 20 to 30 pounds heavier than him. She would also have Kirkland running with heavy chains wrapped around him.

The hard work is inspiring. The hard work showed incredible grit displayed by Kirkland on numerous professional bouts he had with Wolfe in his corner. The man was on his way to greatness and the woman was on her way to being the first female professional boxing trainer to win a world title. That was until it was no longer.

Wolfe not working with Kirkland for Canelo fight

Kirkland left Wolfe and decided to hire a new trainer, Rick Morones, for the upcoming bout against the former WBC Junior Middleweight champion of the world. Kirkland then went on to say he had problems in the business side of boxing and blamed Wolfe for his performance against Carlos Molina. Kirkland claiming she gave him pills before the fight that made him feel like he was "high as a kite." Is it true? Only Wolfe and Kirkland know the answer to that question.

Alvarez has fought the best in his weight class during Kirkland's 2 year stint of inactivity, including Floyd Mayweather Jr. Alvarez is a powerful boxer who has tremendous skill. Although he himself has been inactive for 10 months. Will Kirkland have enough grit to get through "Canelo?" I believe without Wolf and the inactivity, Kirkland will fall short and get knocked out inside of eight rounds.

There is something to be said about a trainer you trust to be in your corner in what of the biggest fights in your career. To hear the sound of his/her voice, pushing you, motivating you. The desire of not wanting to let him/her down. Will Morones be that trainer for Kirkland? We shall see. But one thing is for sure. It is not going to be Mayweather versus Pacquiao. It will not cost you $100. In fact, it is going to be the opposite. It is going to be a barn burner.

Mayweather Did What He Always Does

"He hugged the whole fight!"

"He ran all night!"

"The fight ruined boxing."

Quotes like this have been rampant throughout internet, newspapers, social media, etc. Just to give you a little background on who exactly Floyd Mayweather fought on Saturday night, here you go...

Manny Pacquiao is regarded one of the pound for pound best fighters in this generation. He has record of 57 wins, 6 losses, 2 draws, with 38 wins by knockout. The man has demolished World Champion after World Champion during his career with a dynamite left cross that has caved his various world class opponents. Just to throw out a few names: Miguel Cotto, Oscar De La Hoya, Antonio Margarito, Ricky Hatton, Joshua Clottey, and Sugar Shane Mosley. And those are World Champions that he has fought in the upper weight classes of his career.

Floyd Mayweather has 47 wins, no losses, with 26 wins coming by way of knockout. This is a man who has also fought World Champion after World Champion and has beat them. Some decisively, some by a narrow margin. As you can see, he is not regarded as a knockout artist.

Saturday night was not Iron Mike Tyson fighting Michael Spinks. Nor was it Gatti versus Ward. To the layman, expectations for this fight were not reasonable. Floyd Mayweather is a masterful boxer who has perfected the "Philly" shoulder defense, counter punches like anyone you have ever seen, and moves his feet in hyper drive. You try to punch him, he's gone or the punch will graze off his body. That's him, that's his style, THAT'S WHAT HE DOES.

Nothing different occurred on Saturday night. He made Pacquiao look foolish when Manny would lead with his head, relying on his natural speed to innundate Floyd with a barrage of punches coming from all angles. Pac Man had his moments, but it did not effect Mayweather at all. Floyd would use his signature counter right hand that would stun Manny and prevent him from getting inside the masterful boxer. Whenever Pacquaio saw opportunity to start punching, Floyd would be long gone or hug Manny, preventing him from punching. Yes I agree, it's not the best for entertainment purposes, but it prevented Floyd from hitting the deck. When you're in the ring against one of the best fighters in the world, worrying about anything else but your health and safety is pretty much secondary.

If anyone wants to blame a fighter, it's Manny that should be blamed. Manny did not throw anywhere near as many punches as he has done in his previous fights. He did not press the fight like previous Mayweather opponents did, such as Maidana, De La Hoya, or Castillo. These men took it to Floyd and were close to walking away with a victory. Mayweather is just that good.

I do not blame the general public for being disappointed. Especially after shelling out one hundred dollars. But it takes two to tango. And obviously, Floyd and Kenny Bayless were not the only ones in the ring that night.

Do not get me wrong, I am NOT a Mayweather fan. The multiple domestic violence charges along with the flaunting of his lavish lifestyle do not sit well with me. But you have to give credit where credit is due. Is Floyd Mayweather Jr. "The Best Ever?" Even after beating Manny Pacquiao, that is still a question up for debate. Although I would have to put him in my top 5 pound for pound.

Mayweather: Winners win and losers have excuses

Following Floyd Mayweather Jr's decision victory over Filipino boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao on Saturday. And Pacquiao's revelation of his shoulder injury during the post-fight press conference. Floyd posted on his social media a status that somewhat directed to Pacquiao's injury as an "excuse" for losing the fight against him.

"19 years in the fight game and I've had one excuse: "Don't have an excuse". Winners win and losers have excuses." Mayweather wrote on his Facebook page timeline.

Mayweather (48-0, 26 KO's) won the fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. But Pacquiao's injury cast shadow on his victory.

Shoulder injury put Pacman on the limelight

Pacquiao is on the media spotlight, instead of the media talking about Floyd's victory. The media has been following Pacquiao's developing injury story. Pacquiao did not disclose an injury he suffered during the training. A move that might brought him to trial by perjury.

Yahoo Sport's Kevin Iole first broke the story.

Two Las Vegas residents already filed $5 million class-suit in Las Vegas district court.

Michael Koncz, admitted he checked the wrong box on NSAC's pre-fight questionnaire. But listed the medication Pacquiao needed for the fight.

What Pacman has to say on Koncz

In a report from ABS-CBN TV Patrol, Pacquiao told that he might replace Koncz.

"Papalitan ko na yan si Michael Koncz" (I will replace Michael koncz), says Pacquaio in Filipino, followed by his usual charming smile.

I don't know if Pacquiao is serious about what he said. But if the intention of Pacquiao's camp is to disclose the injury. But Koncz checked the wrong box, then I think he should replace Koncz. Even if it's an honest mistake. It's negligence on his part. What he did might cost million dollar case on Pacquiao for violating Las Vegas rules.

On a possible Mayweather-Pacquiao rematch

Pacquiao pointed out he's not making his shoulder injury as an excuse. Instead, he still thinks that he won the fight. But the shoulder injury now becomes the talking point of a rematch.

Initial fans reaction after the fight is that it doesn't need a rematch. It's the biggest fight. The biggest payday for the fighters. But with little action.

There's no rematch stipulated in the contract for last Saturday's Mayweather-Pacquiao bout.

Showtime's president and general manager of sports programming not convinced of a Mayweahter-Pacquiao rematch.

"There have been a lot of challenges. There's a lot of history between the principles here, history of negotiations, a relationship that went sour between Floyd and Top Rank, a lot of emotional baggage and that made the negotiation part difficult and getting the fight together difficult and then you layer on to it two different competing networks, different business models, different competing networks, different strategies, different philosophies, different creative viewpoints sometimes. So you're bringing in three sets of different viewpoints, promoter, fighter and network. And trying to layer them all together and it's a challenge," says Espinoza as quoted in Boxingnews.com

But to those that think that there's merit for a rematch, don’t lose hope.

It was earlier reported Floyd Mayweather Jr. texted Stephen A. Smith. He will agree on a rematch with Manny Pacquiao in 2016 when Pacman' shoulder fully recover.

Mayweather wins decision over Pacquiao

Las Vega Nevada - Floyd Mayweather Jr. retains undefeated record dominates Manny Pacquiao in their welterweight unification bout on Saturday night at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

Mayweather (48-0, 26 KO's) dominated and controlled most of the rounds landing telling pot shots. His vaunted defense limited Pacquiao's offensive arsenal. Floyd won on judges scorecards on scores of 118-110, 116-112 and 116-112.

"He's a tough competitor" says Mayweather.

"Yes I'll fight in again September", continued Mayweather when ask about his next move.

"I thought I won the won the fight", says Pacquiao. "He's doing nothing around the ring" continued Pacquaio.

"Bob [Arum] will take care..." says Pacquiao when ask about what's next for him.

Although Mayweather assured that he will be fighting again in May, but there's no mention of a rematch. I believed there's no point of rematch. Mayweather is simply just too good against the Pacman.

Stay tuned for more in-depth post fight analysis of Mayweather-Pacquiao.

My Mayweather vs Pacquiao prediction

Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Manny Pacquiao, is the fight that the boxing fans around the world waited for such a long time will finally takes place on Saturday night (Sunday morning Manila) at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, in Las Vegas.

The fight took almost six years in the making. Two top welterweights of our time will settle in the ring who will be boxing's best in their generation. They started professional prize fighting with one year gap. Mayweather debut in 1996 and Pacquiao in 1995. Win or lose, each fighter can claim that they made the fight of the century happen. The obvious winner is the fans and sport of boxing in general. The sport has been demanding for this fight back in 2009, wherein both fighters were considerably at their fighting peak. But undoubtedly, it still remains the most demand fight that will shatter existing boxing revenue records. With a total expected purse of $200 M that will be split 60-40 in favor of Mayweather.

Floyd Mayweather Jr. (47-0, 26 KO's) now 38 years old, still remains undefeated and considered as the pound-for-pound king in the sport. Although it is safe to say that he has decline a notch. But he fought and won against Marcos Maidana (twice), Saul Alvarez, Robert Guerrero, Miguel Cotto, Victor Ortiz, Shane Mosley and Juan Manuel Marquez.

[caption id="attachment_5191" align="alignnone" width="701"] Juan Manuel Marquez (56-7-1, 40 KO's) knockout Manny Pacquiao in 2012.[/caption]

Manny Pacquiao lost twice; an infamous 12 round split decision loss to Timothy Bradley and a stunning knockout defeat to arch-rival Juan Manuel Marquez in 2012. But Pacquiao rebuilds career and has had great 2013 and 2014 campaign. In 2013, after almost one year from face-first knockout loss to Marquez, Pacman rebounded by outclassing tough banger Brandon Rios. And in 2014, Pacquiao fought twice: a rematch with Timothy Bradley--avenging the controversial loss; and total annihilation of Chris Algieri, wherein Pacquiao scored a total of six knockdowns in route to a wide unanimous decision victory in November.

My Prediction

I think Floyd will size up Manny Pacquiao in the first four rounds. He will be in his defensive shell and gauge Pacquiao's power and speed. Although Floyd may not open up and may throw very limited punches in the first four rounds, I believed Manny will be a little bit conservative too in throwing combinations. But I'm sure, Manny will throw more punches compared to Floyd in the first four rounds. This will make Manny win most of the first four rounds in the judges' scorecards.

I think starting Round 5, Floyd will start stepping on the gas on his offense. He will fire his jabs, mixing it upstairs and downstairs in an unpredictable rhythm and fires his laser-like right hand that will find its home pretty well on Pacquiao's upper extremities. In this round also, Manny will step up his offense and throws fast combinations as he sees more openings on a more offensive minded Mayweather.

I think rounds six to ten would be chess match action wherein each fighter would try to outdo each other's move. These are the rounds where the judges might have difficulty in scoring. They have to choose between Mayweather's single-shot telling blows or Pacquiao's six, seven combinations fired that one or two might get through. Other factors in scoring the round is defense -- wherein most likely on Mayweather's side. But ring generalship could be on Pacquiao side as he tends to back Floyd up towards the ropes as he will keep on firing blistering combinations, moving in and out, side to side with his tremendous foot speed using the entire ring.

I think Mayweather makes up the deficit he had in the first four rounds and even up the scores entering the championship rounds. The 11th and 12th round is up for grab for both fighters. These are the rounds wherein Pacquiao's "will to win" and Floyd's "I will find a way to win" will play out. The fighter who has the optimum condition to do so will win. And I pick Manny's "will to win" to prevail compared to Mayweather who's still "finding a way to win" even after the final bell. Pacquiao by Majority Decision.

Mayweather vs Pacquaio weigh-in result: Mayweather 146, Pacquiao 145

Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao hit the scales Friday afternoon in a jam-packed venue at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Both fighters weighted in under the 147 pound welterweight limit. Floyd Mayweather Jr. came in at 146 pounds. Manny Pacquiao came in at 145 pounds. They're going to re-hydrate come fight night and I expect Floyd to be heavier when they finally step on the same ring on Saturday night, May 2 (Sunday May 3, Manila).

Maweather vs Pacquiao: Weigh-in event live streaming

Undefeated boxer and pound-for-pound king Floyd "Money" Mayweather Jr. and "Fighter of the Decade Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao will tip the scales on Friday, 1st May 2015 at 6PM ET/3PM PT for their mega-fight on Saturday night, 2nd May 2015 (Sunday Morning, 3rd May in Manila) at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas Nevada.

The fight dubbed as the "Fight of the Century" is expected to destroy all existing records in terms of the boxing revenue. The joint Showtime/HBO PPV sales is projected to generate $4 million. Ticket sales at around $74 million and total fighters' purse is around $300 million.

Mayweather and Pacquiao will meet at the contracted welterweight limit at 147 pounds. Two best welterweights in our generation will finally share the same ring after five years. The first time boxing public demanded the fight in late 2009 will finally a day far away!