Tyson Fury is the new heavyweight champion of the world! He won on points against Wladimir Klitschko in their heavyweight clash in Germany on Saturday night.
The official score: 115-112, 115-112 and 166-111 all for Fury.
It was really a dull performance of the former champion. Klitschko (64-4, 53 KOs) just landed a total of 52 punches in 12 rounds to Tyson's 86. He just landed four body shots versus Fury's 20.
Klitschko the obvious power puncher simply didn't let his hands go landing only 18 power shots to Fury's 48.
The classic Klitschko really showed tonight but it's just that Tyson Fury (25-0, 18 KOs) had a different approach tonight compared to Klitschko's previous challengers. Fury just did a little more than what Klitschko is doing to win points in every round.
Klitschko really got the dose of his own medicine tonight. Fury was able to capitalize his reach and height advantage, which was Klitschko's advantage against former smaller challengers.
Views and Opinions
Saturday, November 28, 2015
Big men show: Wladimir Klitschko vs Tyson Fury preview and prediction
Wladimir Klitschko and Tyson Fury's combined weight was 493 pounds during the weigh-in.
On fight night, they could weigh more than 500 pounds for their heavyweight championship clash at the Düsseldorf, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany, Saturday night.
There were times Klitschko's fight had been with challengers heavier than him. But most of the time, the 6’6” reigning heavyweight champ from Ukraine, had the height and reach advantage on those challengers. Then Klitschko (64-3, 53 KOs) would capitalize on those advantages and win.
Klitschko uses his 81" reach as a jab that earned him the “Dr. Steel Hammer” moniker to keep an opponent at bay and also busting the opponent's nose at the same time. He also uses his height to lean on shorter opponents during clinched -- if an opponent manages to close the gap.
Against Tyson Fury, Klitschko doesn’t have the above advantages. Fury (24-0, 18 KOs) has the three inches height advantages at 6’9” over Klitschko at 6’6”. But the champion has the obvious ring experience having 67 total bouts to Fury’s 24. On the flip side, Fury is the younger fighter at 27 years old, while Klitschko is 12 years senior at 39.
In the early rounds, I think Klitschko will start slow as usual. Although if Fury forces the action early, the tempo might be changed, I expect Klitschko to clinch a little bit more if the younger Fury engages early and choose to fight from inside.
In the third, Fury will use his legs effectively and throw more jabs to counter Klitschko’s heavy jabs.
But the champion adjusts in the fourth round, blasting Fury with his signature one-two combo as Fury launches his attacks.
In the middle rounds, Fury continues to land some jabs from outside. He will use angles with his footwork, but also take harder shots from the champion, who steps up the gas and shifts to a higher gear.
In the seventh, it is obvious that Klitschko's ring experience and power took over. He’s landing the harder shots that showed its damaging effect on the challenger.
In the ninth, Klitchsko’s power finally ends the challenger's bid for the world heavyweight championship. The champion lands a textbook one-two combo spot on the button that sends Fury hard to the canvass. Klitschko TKO9.
On fight night, they could weigh more than 500 pounds for their heavyweight championship clash at the Düsseldorf, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany, Saturday night.
The stats
There were times Klitschko's fight had been with challengers heavier than him. But most of the time, the 6’6” reigning heavyweight champ from Ukraine, had the height and reach advantage on those challengers. Then Klitschko (64-3, 53 KOs) would capitalize on those advantages and win.
Klitschko uses his 81" reach as a jab that earned him the “Dr. Steel Hammer” moniker to keep an opponent at bay and also busting the opponent's nose at the same time. He also uses his height to lean on shorter opponents during clinched -- if an opponent manages to close the gap.
Against Tyson Fury, Klitschko doesn’t have the above advantages. Fury (24-0, 18 KOs) has the three inches height advantages at 6’9” over Klitschko at 6’6”. But the champion has the obvious ring experience having 67 total bouts to Fury’s 24. On the flip side, Fury is the younger fighter at 27 years old, while Klitschko is 12 years senior at 39.
The fight
In the early rounds, I think Klitschko will start slow as usual. Although if Fury forces the action early, the tempo might be changed, I expect Klitschko to clinch a little bit more if the younger Fury engages early and choose to fight from inside.
The battle of jabs
In the third, Fury will use his legs effectively and throw more jabs to counter Klitschko’s heavy jabs.
But the champion adjusts in the fourth round, blasting Fury with his signature one-two combo as Fury launches his attacks.
In the middle rounds, Fury continues to land some jabs from outside. He will use angles with his footwork, but also take harder shots from the champion, who steps up the gas and shifts to a higher gear.
In the seventh, it is obvious that Klitschko's ring experience and power took over. He’s landing the harder shots that showed its damaging effect on the challenger.
In the ninth, Klitchsko’s power finally ends the challenger's bid for the world heavyweight championship. The champion lands a textbook one-two combo spot on the button that sends Fury hard to the canvass. Klitschko TKO9.
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Cotto-Canelo Result: Canelo Alvarez, the new lineal middleweight champion
Saul Canelo Alvarez (46-1-1, 32 KOs) is the new lineal middleweight champion of the world.
It was a highly technical battle. It is a fight wherein every exchange might break into an all-out brawl. But either Canelo or Cotto (40-5, 33 KOs) reach the breaking point. They both stick to their tactical plan. The result was a mixture of boxing science in execution and entertaining display of action -- more than enough to wake you up -- if you fall asleep during the Rigondeux-Francisco snooze-fist.
Canelo won wide from all the three judges' scorecards at ringside against Puerto Rico's Miguel Cotto. The official scores were: 117-111, 119-110, and 118-110.
More detailed post-fight recap soon.
It was a highly technical battle. It is a fight wherein every exchange might break into an all-out brawl. But either Canelo or Cotto (40-5, 33 KOs) reach the breaking point. They both stick to their tactical plan. The result was a mixture of boxing science in execution and entertaining display of action -- more than enough to wake you up -- if you fall asleep during the Rigondeux-Francisco snooze-fist.
Canelo won wide from all the three judges' scorecards at ringside against Puerto Rico's Miguel Cotto. The official scores were: 117-111, 119-110, and 118-110.
More detailed post-fight recap soon.
Saturday, November 21, 2015
Photos: Miguel Cotto vs Canelo official weigh in
Miguel Cotto and Saul Canelo Alvarez tipped the scale on Friday at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, North Convention Center – Islander Ballroom ahead of their middleweight battle on Saturday night on pay-per-view.
Official Weights: Cotto 153.5, Canelo 155
Lineal middleweight champion Miguel Cotto (40-4, 33 KOs) surprisingly weighed in even below the junior middleweight limit. He only weighed 153.5 lbs., which is .5 lbs. under the junior middleweight limit during their official weigh-in at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, North Convention Center - Islander Ballroom on Friday afternoon.
Mexican star Saul Canelo Alvarez (45-1-1, 32 KOs) tipped the scales spot on the contracted catchweight limit at 155 lbs.
Canelo has a clear advantage in size for this match-up. The catchweight at 155, I think will play to his advantage in my opinion, because Canelo seemed to struggle to make 154 lately. He tends to tire in the late rounds of his previous fights at 154. An indication he might outgrow his division. One pound could really make the difference here. At 155, it made him not that much drained during the training but not too heavy to make him sluggish and slow. But he should not over re-hydrate.
Mexican star Saul Canelo Alvarez (45-1-1, 32 KOs) tipped the scales spot on the contracted catchweight limit at 155 lbs.
Canelo has a clear advantage in size for this match-up. The catchweight at 155, I think will play to his advantage in my opinion, because Canelo seemed to struggle to make 154 lately. He tends to tire in the late rounds of his previous fights at 154. An indication he might outgrow his division. One pound could really make the difference here. At 155, it made him not that much drained during the training but not too heavy to make him sluggish and slow. But he should not over re-hydrate.
Friday, November 20, 2015
Watch: MIGUEL COTTO VS CANELO ALVAREZ OFFICIAL WEIGH IN - 1:00 PM PT
Miguel Cotto and Saul Canelo Alvarez will tip the scale on Friday 1 PM PT at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, North Convention Center - Islander Ballroom for their middleweight clash on Saturday night. You can watch the weigh-in live on the above HBO Boxing video stream.
Drian Francisco: I will do my best in the ring
Only four people believed Holly Holm will win against former undefeated UFC female superstar Ronda Rousey when the two met in Australia this past weekend. Those were the people in her corner.
When Drian Francisco (28-3-1, 22 KOs) enters the ring this Saturday night against the undefeated and the best pure boxer in the sport today, Guillermo Rigondeux (15-0, 10 KOs), most likely, fewer people think he will win. I can’t even blame if the men that will man his corner doubted he will win. After all, when the bell sounded to signal the beginning of Round 1 it’s between Francisco and Rigondeux.
But the Filipino known for his unorthodox style was unfazed of the situation. He was very motivated to win. He’s hungry to win. This is a rare opportunity, and the opportunity came in at the right time.
Here’s why:
Drian is currently preparing for a fight when he was offered to fight Regondeaux on the undercard of the most anticipated Mexico- Puerto Rico boxing rivalry Miguel Cotto vs Saul Canelo Alvarez. Francisco pulled out of a scheduled ten-round bout against Danilo Pena scheduled on Friday. Meaning, Drian is in fighting shape when this opportunity surface – although the offer came out in the short notice.
Unlike any sacrificial lamb destined to be defeated in the savage squared circle against a much superior opponent in short notice, Drian is a well-prepared lamb.
If he’s physically prepared, let’s check how’s mentally prepared for this fight.
"I know that Rigondeaux is one of the best fighters. He's one of the top four or five best fighters in the world. But I'm here to fight and I am here to win". Drian said during the final media workout.
"I'm mentally prepared for this fight. I hope the fans will support me. I will do my best in the ring." said Francisco.
On the other hand, Rigo is coming off from an 11-month hiatus. Ring-rust may not play a major factor as Rigo always train. But inactivity is inactivity. It doesn't do good to any fighter other than resting a battle-weary body and soul.
With the above said, what do you think are the chances of Drian Francisco pulling an upset?
When Drian Francisco (28-3-1, 22 KOs) enters the ring this Saturday night against the undefeated and the best pure boxer in the sport today, Guillermo Rigondeux (15-0, 10 KOs), most likely, fewer people think he will win. I can’t even blame if the men that will man his corner doubted he will win. After all, when the bell sounded to signal the beginning of Round 1 it’s between Francisco and Rigondeux.
But the Filipino known for his unorthodox style was unfazed of the situation. He was very motivated to win. He’s hungry to win. This is a rare opportunity, and the opportunity came in at the right time.
Here’s why:
Drian is currently preparing for a fight when he was offered to fight Regondeaux on the undercard of the most anticipated Mexico- Puerto Rico boxing rivalry Miguel Cotto vs Saul Canelo Alvarez. Francisco pulled out of a scheduled ten-round bout against Danilo Pena scheduled on Friday. Meaning, Drian is in fighting shape when this opportunity surface – although the offer came out in the short notice.
Unlike any sacrificial lamb destined to be defeated in the savage squared circle against a much superior opponent in short notice, Drian is a well-prepared lamb.
If he’s physically prepared, let’s check how’s mentally prepared for this fight.
"I know that Rigondeaux is one of the best fighters. He's one of the top four or five best fighters in the world. But I'm here to fight and I am here to win". Drian said during the final media workout.
"I'm mentally prepared for this fight. I hope the fans will support me. I will do my best in the ring." said Francisco.
On the other hand, Rigo is coming off from an 11-month hiatus. Ring-rust may not play a major factor as Rigo always train. But inactivity is inactivity. It doesn't do good to any fighter other than resting a battle-weary body and soul.
With the above said, what do you think are the chances of Drian Francisco pulling an upset?
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
Miguel Cotto, Canelo Álvarez Grand Arrivals Quotes, Photos
LAS VEGAS (Nov. 18, 2015) - The Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto (40-4, 33 KOs) and former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (45-1-1, 32 KOs) made their grand arrivals yesterday at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas ahead of their Nov. 21 world championship showdown, which will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View
Cotto vs. Canelo is shaping up to be the biggest fight in boxing this year and the biggest fight in the history of the famed Puerto Rico vs. Mexico rivalry. Below is what the fighters and their trainers had to say at today's grand arrivals:
MIGUEL COTTO, The Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion:
"Freddie is the biggest compliment I have in my career. He has made me a better boxer. After this next fight, you are going to really understand what he has done for my career.
"I am not disappointed by the WBC's decision [to strip Cotto of his title]. It was all about money. The fee for this fight was absurd to me and I prefer to keep the money in my account. I don't need to pay attention to Oscar De La Hoya's opinion. He should take care of his own business. And I will take care of mine. I don't stick my nose in Oscar's business.
"The organizations wants four champions in every division just to earn a percentage from
everybody. Then we have to pay for their mistakes. This is not fair to me. The WBC told me my offer was not reasonable to them. They told me I was not going to be the champion anymore. I don't need their belt. I have enough belts in my house and with the money I saved, I can buy any belt I want. I can be the champion of whatever I want in my house.
"This fight sells itself. Everybody should know what to expect from Canelo and what kind of fight they can expect from me. I know I have everything I need to beat Canelo.
"I don't want to be in the sport for that much longer. I see two or three more fights andthat will be all.
"No matter what I have to do on Nov. 21 to beat Canelo, I am going to do because I prepared myself for war. I prepared myself for a good fight and, I am going to do my best. This fight cannot be decided by one punch. I am going to use my whole arsenal to beat Canelo.
"Training is all about discipline. Everyone knows that Freddie has Parkinson's Disease. You never hear any complaints coming from Freddie. This man, Freddie Roach, gave me the tools I needed in my career and he made me work as hard as I can. Freddie made me look the way I looked during our last few fights."
CANELO ÁLVAREZ, Former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion:
"I understand the magnitude of this fight and what it means for the history of Puerto Rico vs. Mexico. I know this fight will go down as one of the most exciting and explosive nights in the famed rivalry and in the sport of boxing.
"I am very prepared for this fight. I have full confidence in my trainers and their approach to this fight. People can expect a great fight that will be talked about for years to come.
"I am doing this for my fans, for my country and for history."
FREDDIE ROACH, International Boxing Hall of Famer & Seven-Time BWAA Trainer of the Year Award Winner, Miguel Cotto Trainer:
"Miguel trains with all he has. We're in the gym every morning at 5:00 a.m. for conditioning work and that lasts for three hours. Then at 1:00 p.m. we have our boxing workout. We work really hard every day.
"Before I go to sleep every night, I run through my thoughts, and make sure I have everything covered. There's not one aspect of the fight that I don't think about. We cover all our bases. And we're 100 percent ready for this opponent. Canelo makes a lot of mistakes. And we're really going to take advantage of those mistakes. He has youth on his side. But that's not going to be enough to beat us.
"Miguel is bigger than the belt."
CHEPO REYNOSO, Manager and Trainer for Canelo Álvarez:
"I have had the privilege to see Canelo grow into the man that he is and I know that he is ready for this fight. He has been preparing for this night his whole life.
"Canelo is a strong, intelligent fighter, with a lot of heart and that will show on fight night. I know he will raise up his hands in victory for Mexico."
EDDY REYNOSO, Head Trainer for Canelo Álvarez:
"We are very well prepared for this fight. Canelo is a strong fighter who is getting better every day. On fight night there will be fireworks in the ring.
"We are very confident in Canelo's abilities. He is someone with no limitations and will go down in history as legend after his victory on Nov. 21."
Cotto vs. Canelo, a 12-round fight for the Lineal Middleweight World Championship, takes place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The fight is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra; Mexico, Live it to Believe it!; O'Reilly Auto Parts; Tequila Cazadores and Corporate Travel Made Simple (ctms). Also on the pay-per-view telecast will be Takashi Miura vs. Francisco Vargas in a 12-round co-featured fight for the WBC Super Featherweight World Championship presented in association with Teiken Promotions; Guillermo Rigondeaux vs. Drian Francisco in a 10-round super bantamweight bout presented in association with Caribe Promotions; and Jayson Velez vs. Ronny Rios is a 10-round featherweight bout which will open the Pay-Per-View telecast. The event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.
Randy Caballero vs. Lee Haskins, a 12-round fight for the IBF Bantamweight World Championship, is presented in association with Bristol Boxing Ltd. and will be featured as part of the preliminary undercards available on digital platforms starting at 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT.
In addition to the great action inside the ring, the event will feature a special live performance by 2015 Latin Grammy nominee Yandel. The performance will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View after the second fight of the pay-per-view telecast.
Cotto vs. Canelo is shaping up to be the biggest fight in boxing this year and the biggest fight in the history of the famed Puerto Rico vs. Mexico rivalry. Below is what the fighters and their trainers had to say at today's grand arrivals:
MIGUEL COTTO, The Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion:
"Freddie is the biggest compliment I have in my career. He has made me a better boxer. After this next fight, you are going to really understand what he has done for my career.
"I am not disappointed by the WBC's decision [to strip Cotto of his title]. It was all about money. The fee for this fight was absurd to me and I prefer to keep the money in my account. I don't need to pay attention to Oscar De La Hoya's opinion. He should take care of his own business. And I will take care of mine. I don't stick my nose in Oscar's business.
"The organizations wants four champions in every division just to earn a percentage from
everybody. Then we have to pay for their mistakes. This is not fair to me. The WBC told me my offer was not reasonable to them. They told me I was not going to be the champion anymore. I don't need their belt. I have enough belts in my house and with the money I saved, I can buy any belt I want. I can be the champion of whatever I want in my house.
"This fight sells itself. Everybody should know what to expect from Canelo and what kind of fight they can expect from me. I know I have everything I need to beat Canelo.
"I don't want to be in the sport for that much longer. I see two or three more fights andthat will be all.
"No matter what I have to do on Nov. 21 to beat Canelo, I am going to do because I prepared myself for war. I prepared myself for a good fight and, I am going to do my best. This fight cannot be decided by one punch. I am going to use my whole arsenal to beat Canelo.
"Training is all about discipline. Everyone knows that Freddie has Parkinson's Disease. You never hear any complaints coming from Freddie. This man, Freddie Roach, gave me the tools I needed in my career and he made me work as hard as I can. Freddie made me look the way I looked during our last few fights."
CANELO ÁLVAREZ, Former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion:
"I understand the magnitude of this fight and what it means for the history of Puerto Rico vs. Mexico. I know this fight will go down as one of the most exciting and explosive nights in the famed rivalry and in the sport of boxing.
"I am very prepared for this fight. I have full confidence in my trainers and their approach to this fight. People can expect a great fight that will be talked about for years to come.
"I am doing this for my fans, for my country and for history."
FREDDIE ROACH, International Boxing Hall of Famer & Seven-Time BWAA Trainer of the Year Award Winner, Miguel Cotto Trainer:
"Miguel trains with all he has. We're in the gym every morning at 5:00 a.m. for conditioning work and that lasts for three hours. Then at 1:00 p.m. we have our boxing workout. We work really hard every day.
"Before I go to sleep every night, I run through my thoughts, and make sure I have everything covered. There's not one aspect of the fight that I don't think about. We cover all our bases. And we're 100 percent ready for this opponent. Canelo makes a lot of mistakes. And we're really going to take advantage of those mistakes. He has youth on his side. But that's not going to be enough to beat us.
"Miguel is bigger than the belt."
CHEPO REYNOSO, Manager and Trainer for Canelo Álvarez:
"I have had the privilege to see Canelo grow into the man that he is and I know that he is ready for this fight. He has been preparing for this night his whole life.
"Canelo is a strong, intelligent fighter, with a lot of heart and that will show on fight night. I know he will raise up his hands in victory for Mexico."
EDDY REYNOSO, Head Trainer for Canelo Álvarez:
"We are very well prepared for this fight. Canelo is a strong fighter who is getting better every day. On fight night there will be fireworks in the ring.
"We are very confident in Canelo's abilities. He is someone with no limitations and will go down in history as legend after his victory on Nov. 21."
Cotto vs. Canelo, a 12-round fight for the Lineal Middleweight World Championship, takes place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The fight is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra; Mexico, Live it to Believe it!; O'Reilly Auto Parts; Tequila Cazadores and Corporate Travel Made Simple (ctms). Also on the pay-per-view telecast will be Takashi Miura vs. Francisco Vargas in a 12-round co-featured fight for the WBC Super Featherweight World Championship presented in association with Teiken Promotions; Guillermo Rigondeaux vs. Drian Francisco in a 10-round super bantamweight bout presented in association with Caribe Promotions; and Jayson Velez vs. Ronny Rios is a 10-round featherweight bout which will open the Pay-Per-View telecast. The event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.
Randy Caballero vs. Lee Haskins, a 12-round fight for the IBF Bantamweight World Championship, is presented in association with Bristol Boxing Ltd. and will be featured as part of the preliminary undercards available on digital platforms starting at 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT.
In addition to the great action inside the ring, the event will feature a special live performance by 2015 Latin Grammy nominee Yandel. The performance will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View after the second fight of the pay-per-view telecast.
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Read: WBC STRIPS MIGUEL COTTO OF MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE
Four days before lineal middleweight champion Miguel Cotto defends title versus Saul Canelo Alvarez, WBC stripped Cotto his middleweight title. According to the below WBC statement, "Miguel Cotto and his promotion did not agree to comply with the WBC Rules & Regulations". But surprisingly, Alvarez can win the WBC title because he "has agreed to do so". Hmmmm... Sounds bullshit to me - defending on the real WBC reason.
I'm speculating here, but it seemed to me that the reason could be the "sanction fee". I believed Cotto refused to pay sanction fees imposed by the WBC. Naaa... Maybe it's too much!
Anyway here's the full statement:
"The World Boxing Council worked tirelessly through a process that began over two years ago to secure the celebration of the highly anticipated fight between Miguel Cotto and Saul “Canelo” Alvarez. The WBC is proud of that accomplishment that is giving boxing fans around the world a very important fight to see.
After several weeks of communications, countless attempts and good faith time extensions trying to preserve the fight as a WBC World Championship, Miguel Cotto and his promotion did not agree to comply with the WBC Rules & Regulations, while Saúl Alvarez has agreed to do so. Accordingly, the WBC must rule on the matter prior to the fight.
The WBC hereby announces that effective immediately has withdrawn recognition of Miguel Cotto as WBC World Middleweight Champion. If Saul “Canelo” Alvarez wins the fight against Cotto, he will be recognized as the WBC middleweight world champion.
The WBC’s decision is premised on the fact that Miguel Cotto and his camp are not willing to abide by the governing WBC Rules & Regulations, and the specific conditions the WBC established to sanction the fight. Simply put: they are not willing to respect the very same rules and conditions which applied to Cotto becoming WBC champion. The WBC wishes Miguel Cotto the best of luck as we truly regret the course of action which led to them taking such decision.
The WBC is a non-profit governing organization founded 53 years ago. The WBC has implemented all of the current rules in the sport, paving the way to much safer boxing. The WBC creates, implements and enforces, its Rules & Regulations to bring safety, order, unity, justice and equality to a sport that was marred with abuse and unfairness. Since the first day of existence of our organization, the WBC has taken countless actions for the protection of the boxer and it is a fact that most if not all boxers dream of conquering the green belt.
The WBC stands by its honorability and will not participate in the abuse of power and greediness, which has taken our boxing world to regrettable actions from different parties. The WBC wishes the promotion great success and we are satisfied that this great fight for boxing will be enjoyed by millions of fans around the world."
I'm speculating here, but it seemed to me that the reason could be the "sanction fee". I believed Cotto refused to pay sanction fees imposed by the WBC. Naaa... Maybe it's too much!
Anyway here's the full statement:
"The World Boxing Council worked tirelessly through a process that began over two years ago to secure the celebration of the highly anticipated fight between Miguel Cotto and Saul “Canelo” Alvarez. The WBC is proud of that accomplishment that is giving boxing fans around the world a very important fight to see.
After several weeks of communications, countless attempts and good faith time extensions trying to preserve the fight as a WBC World Championship, Miguel Cotto and his promotion did not agree to comply with the WBC Rules & Regulations, while Saúl Alvarez has agreed to do so. Accordingly, the WBC must rule on the matter prior to the fight.
The WBC hereby announces that effective immediately has withdrawn recognition of Miguel Cotto as WBC World Middleweight Champion. If Saul “Canelo” Alvarez wins the fight against Cotto, he will be recognized as the WBC middleweight world champion.
The WBC’s decision is premised on the fact that Miguel Cotto and his camp are not willing to abide by the governing WBC Rules & Regulations, and the specific conditions the WBC established to sanction the fight. Simply put: they are not willing to respect the very same rules and conditions which applied to Cotto becoming WBC champion. The WBC wishes Miguel Cotto the best of luck as we truly regret the course of action which led to them taking such decision.
The WBC is a non-profit governing organization founded 53 years ago. The WBC has implemented all of the current rules in the sport, paving the way to much safer boxing. The WBC creates, implements and enforces, its Rules & Regulations to bring safety, order, unity, justice and equality to a sport that was marred with abuse and unfairness. Since the first day of existence of our organization, the WBC has taken countless actions for the protection of the boxer and it is a fact that most if not all boxers dream of conquering the green belt.
The WBC stands by its honorability and will not participate in the abuse of power and greediness, which has taken our boxing world to regrettable actions from different parties. The WBC wishes the promotion great success and we are satisfied that this great fight for boxing will be enjoyed by millions of fans around the world."
Holm vs Rousey: A Win/Win for Everyone
On Saturday night in Melbourne Australia, Holly “The Preacher’s Daughter” Holm (10-0, 7 KO’s) knocked out former bantamweight UFC champion “Rowdy” Ronda Rousey (12-1, 3 KO’s, 9 by submission). Rousey was a HUGE favorite going into the fight. Everyone thought this was going to be another submission or KO win for Rousey. Big plans were already in the works after the predicted win over Holm.
The next step for Rousey was to potentially dabbe in the boxing world, in an attempt to win another world title. In fact, she just graced the January 2016 cover of “The Ring magazine,” which hits stands on November 15. The well known and respected boxing magazine, sells itself as the “Bible of boxing.” Not only is she the second woman to be featured on the front page, she is the first MMA fighter to take the cover. Oscar De La Hoya was licking his chops, anticipating this win so he could make a whole lot of money off Rousey, the cash cow. Holm upset the plan and has officially conquered the MMA and boxing world. For those of you who don’t know Holm, here’s a snippet of what she has accomplished.
Holm was a professional boxing champion who won world titles from the 140 pound to 154 pound division. She held a record of 33-2-3 with 9 KO’s. Holm defended her world titles eighteen times. In addition to her boxing accomplishments, Holm was also a kickboxer who held a record of 2-1 1 KO. The question going into the fight was, could Holm be effective against Rousey’s dominant ground game. Rousey has dominated her past few opponents in the stand up game. So add Rousey's ground game to how she much has excelled fighting on her feet, everyone thought Holm was just going to be another sacrificial lamb. Holm ended up knocking out Rousey with a round-house kick which is being named, “The kick heard around the world.” A rematch was talked about immediately after Rousey got off the canvas. A definite win for Dana White. $CHA CHING$
This was not Holm’s first rodeo. She has been in with the best fighters in the world and has dominated. The trash talking is nothing new to her. She knows that all of the mind games and name calling does not matter. What matters is what happens in the ring or the cage. Holm’s experience was very apparent during interviews leading up to the fight. It was also apparent at the weigh-in incident when Rousey attempted to intimidate Holm by placing her fist in her face. Holm responded by pushing Rousey off with a her fist of her own. Rousey began to trash talk Holm saying she “sees right through her.” Holm just sat back very calm and collected and just looked at Rousey as she was running her mouth. Holm told Joe Rogan when asked what the exchange was about, “I don’t know, I was just having a drink, you know.” Holm has been in world title fights before. It’s nothing new. The only difference is the whole world was now watching it.
Many believe this was a huge blow to Rousey and the MMA world. Many believe she will not come back the same. I believe this loss was actually a win for everyone, including Rousey herself.
Rousey was built as being an invincible fighter that no one could come close to beating. There were even talks at one point of her getting in the cage with pound for pound great Floyd Mayweather Jr. A fighter who is built up that much could lead to very devastating consequences. One that stands out is hubris. The fighter feels untouchable. No one could tell him/her what to do. The law doesn’t apply to them. Opinions from people who look out for your best interests don’t apply. The fighter starts listening to groupies, hang-arounds, and moochers. The fighter starts to stay out a little later and skip training sessions a little more often. The fighter decides to leave the trainer and management that brought him/her up. An example is someone who I and many others, have compared Rousey to. That example is Iron Mike Tyson. I’m not saying Rousey was going in the direction of Tyson. It just appeared a little hubris was starting to creep in.
The fight was a huge win for women’s boxing. Several female boxers throughout the world have not received the recognition they deserve for being a willing participate in one of the most unforgiving and brutal sports in the world. Women get to the highest level of their craft and are not recognized whatsoever for their accomplishments, hard work, and dedication. Holm brought women’s boxing to the forefront. For just a little bit, women’s boxing has received some recognition due to Holm being a three time world champion boxer. Hats off to you ladies!
This fight was not only a win for women’s boxing, the fight was a positive for boxing. Period. No where near this magnitude has boxing gotten the attention it deserves in defeating a mixed martial artist. Yes, Holm knocked out Rousey with a roundhouse kick to the head. Because of this, it is natural for the layman to believe that her kickboxing skills got her the victory. But what people do not see is the subtle intricacies that the sweet science allowed for that devastating kick. Holm’s footwork and straight left hand set the table. Holm moved left to right, staying on her toes, using lateral movement to stay away from Rousey’s take downs and wild punches. The movement also frustrated Rousey and got her off balance as she was trying to pressure Holm. Holm also used her southpaw straight left several times throughout the fight, blooding Rousey’s nose. When Rousey was on the attack, she lost her balance, and BAM! Lights out.
Did boxing win on Saturday night? Maybe a little bit. But who truly won was Holm. Her preparation won her that fight. If she went into that cage simply wanting to kickbox or box Rousey, it would have been a very short night. She would have gotten trapped in an arm bar, like many of Rousey’s past opponents, and submitted. She defended against the takedowns and against the submissions. Holm was on her bicycle, running circles around Rousey, tagging her at every opportunity. Holm was the victor. But I have to admit, I’m glad boxing helped her big time winning that UFC championship.
Rousey will bounce back. She always has. She’s been down before in the judo matt and ended up being the first American in women’s judo to win an Olympic medal. All the credit in the world goes to Rousey for putting women’s combat sports on the map. The attention would be nowhere near the magnitude it has become without the great Rousey. I just hope the attention lasts for a while...
The next step for Rousey was to potentially dabbe in the boxing world, in an attempt to win another world title. In fact, she just graced the January 2016 cover of “The Ring magazine,” which hits stands on November 15. The well known and respected boxing magazine, sells itself as the “Bible of boxing.” Not only is she the second woman to be featured on the front page, she is the first MMA fighter to take the cover. Oscar De La Hoya was licking his chops, anticipating this win so he could make a whole lot of money off Rousey, the cash cow. Holm upset the plan and has officially conquered the MMA and boxing world. For those of you who don’t know Holm, here’s a snippet of what she has accomplished.
Holm was a professional boxing champion who won world titles from the 140 pound to 154 pound division. She held a record of 33-2-3 with 9 KO’s. Holm defended her world titles eighteen times. In addition to her boxing accomplishments, Holm was also a kickboxer who held a record of 2-1 1 KO. The question going into the fight was, could Holm be effective against Rousey’s dominant ground game. Rousey has dominated her past few opponents in the stand up game. So add Rousey's ground game to how she much has excelled fighting on her feet, everyone thought Holm was just going to be another sacrificial lamb. Holm ended up knocking out Rousey with a round-house kick which is being named, “The kick heard around the world.” A rematch was talked about immediately after Rousey got off the canvas. A definite win for Dana White. $CHA CHING$
This was not Holm’s first rodeo. She has been in with the best fighters in the world and has dominated. The trash talking is nothing new to her. She knows that all of the mind games and name calling does not matter. What matters is what happens in the ring or the cage. Holm’s experience was very apparent during interviews leading up to the fight. It was also apparent at the weigh-in incident when Rousey attempted to intimidate Holm by placing her fist in her face. Holm responded by pushing Rousey off with a her fist of her own. Rousey began to trash talk Holm saying she “sees right through her.” Holm just sat back very calm and collected and just looked at Rousey as she was running her mouth. Holm told Joe Rogan when asked what the exchange was about, “I don’t know, I was just having a drink, you know.” Holm has been in world title fights before. It’s nothing new. The only difference is the whole world was now watching it.
Many believe this was a huge blow to Rousey and the MMA world. Many believe she will not come back the same. I believe this loss was actually a win for everyone, including Rousey herself.
Rousey was built as being an invincible fighter that no one could come close to beating. There were even talks at one point of her getting in the cage with pound for pound great Floyd Mayweather Jr. A fighter who is built up that much could lead to very devastating consequences. One that stands out is hubris. The fighter feels untouchable. No one could tell him/her what to do. The law doesn’t apply to them. Opinions from people who look out for your best interests don’t apply. The fighter starts listening to groupies, hang-arounds, and moochers. The fighter starts to stay out a little later and skip training sessions a little more often. The fighter decides to leave the trainer and management that brought him/her up. An example is someone who I and many others, have compared Rousey to. That example is Iron Mike Tyson. I’m not saying Rousey was going in the direction of Tyson. It just appeared a little hubris was starting to creep in.
The fight was a huge win for women’s boxing. Several female boxers throughout the world have not received the recognition they deserve for being a willing participate in one of the most unforgiving and brutal sports in the world. Women get to the highest level of their craft and are not recognized whatsoever for their accomplishments, hard work, and dedication. Holm brought women’s boxing to the forefront. For just a little bit, women’s boxing has received some recognition due to Holm being a three time world champion boxer. Hats off to you ladies!
This fight was not only a win for women’s boxing, the fight was a positive for boxing. Period. No where near this magnitude has boxing gotten the attention it deserves in defeating a mixed martial artist. Yes, Holm knocked out Rousey with a roundhouse kick to the head. Because of this, it is natural for the layman to believe that her kickboxing skills got her the victory. But what people do not see is the subtle intricacies that the sweet science allowed for that devastating kick. Holm’s footwork and straight left hand set the table. Holm moved left to right, staying on her toes, using lateral movement to stay away from Rousey’s take downs and wild punches. The movement also frustrated Rousey and got her off balance as she was trying to pressure Holm. Holm also used her southpaw straight left several times throughout the fight, blooding Rousey’s nose. When Rousey was on the attack, she lost her balance, and BAM! Lights out.
Did boxing win on Saturday night? Maybe a little bit. But who truly won was Holm. Her preparation won her that fight. If she went into that cage simply wanting to kickbox or box Rousey, it would have been a very short night. She would have gotten trapped in an arm bar, like many of Rousey’s past opponents, and submitted. She defended against the takedowns and against the submissions. Holm was on her bicycle, running circles around Rousey, tagging her at every opportunity. Holm was the victor. But I have to admit, I’m glad boxing helped her big time winning that UFC championship.
Rousey will bounce back. She always has. She’s been down before in the judo matt and ended up being the first American in women’s judo to win an Olympic medal. All the credit in the world goes to Rousey for putting women’s combat sports on the map. The attention would be nowhere near the magnitude it has become without the great Rousey. I just hope the attention lasts for a while...
Friday, November 13, 2015
Read: Oscar De La Hoya's open letter to Floyd Mayweather Jr.
Read Oscar De La Hoya's open letter to Floyd Mayweather Jr. that appeared on Playboy's December issue.
"Dear Floyd:
You did it. You made it to the 49–0 mark, a milestone that you like to say only the great Rocky -Marciano reached but that was actually achieved by others, including my idol Julio César Chávez—but who’s counting? And now you’re retiring. Again. (The first time was after our fight in 2007.) This time you say it’s for real. You’re serious about hanging up the gloves. On to bigger and better things. So I’m writing to you today to wish you a fond farewell. Truth be told, I’m not unhappy to see you retire. Neither are a lot of boxing fans. Scratch that. MOST boxing fans. Why? Because the fight game will be a better one without you in it.
Let’s face it: You were boring. Just take a look at your most recent performance, your last hurrah in the ring, a 12-round decision against Andre Berto. How to describe it? A bust? A disaster? A snooze fest? An affair so one-sided that on one judge’s card Berto didn’t win a single round? Everyone in boxing knew Berto didn’t have a chance. I think more people watched Family Guy reruns that night than tuned in to that pay-per-view bout. But I didn’t mind shelling out $75 for the HD broadcast. In fact it’s been a great investment. When my kids have trouble falling asleep, I don’t have to read to them anymore. I just play them your Berto fight. They don’t make it past round three.
Another reason boxing is better off without you: You were afraid. Afraid of taking chances. Afraid of risk. A perfect example is your greatest “triumph,” the long-awaited record-breaking fight between you and Manny Pacquiao. Nearly 4.5 million buys! More than $400 million in revenue! Headlines worldwide! How can that be bad for boxing? Because you lied. You promised action and entertainment and a battle for the ages, and you delivered none of the above. The problem is, that’s precisely how you want it. You should have fought Pacquiao five years ago, not five months ago. That, however, would have been too dangerous. Too risky. You’ve made a career out of being cautious. You won’t get in the ring unless you have an edge. Sure, you fought some big names. But they were past their prime. Hell, even when we fought in 2007—and I barely lost a split decision—I was at the tail end of my career. Then later you took on Mexican megastar Saúl “Canelo” -Álvarez, but he was too young and had to drop too much weight.
Me? I got into this business to take chances. I took on all comers in their prime. The evidence? I lost. Six times. After 31 wins, my first loss was to Félix Trinidad, and I learned a valuable lesson that is true both in the ring and in life: Don’t run. I didn’t stop taking on the best of the best. After beating Derrell Coley, I took on “Sugar” Shane Mosley at the height of his powers—undefeated and considered by many to be the pound-for-pound best in the world. Again, I lost. After four wins against more top-ranked fighters I took on Mosley again. We can debate who actually won the rematch, but the judges had me losing that one as well.
Did I go easy after that? No. I moved up to middleweight to win a belt and faced one of the greatest middleweights of all time, Bernard Hopkins. After a body shot that I’m still feeling took me out of the fight, I took on two more guys at the height of their power who, many years later, would finally face each other at the ages of 36 and 38—Manny Pacquiao and you. When fighters do that—when they risk losing—that’s when everyone wins. The mantra of my firm Golden Boy Promotions is simple: the best taking on the best. It’s too bad you didn’t do the same.
You took the easy way out. When you weren’t dancing around fading stars (show idea for you: Dancing Around the Fading Stars), you were beating up on outclassed opponents. A lot of your opponents were above-average fighters, but they weren’t your caliber. You’re a very talented fighter, the best defensive fighter of our generation. But what good is talent if you don’t test it? Muhammad Ali did. Sugar Ray Leonard did. You? Not a chance. You spent 2000 to 2010 facing forgettable opening acts like Victoriano Sosa, Phillip N’dou, DeMarcus Corley, Henry Bruseles and Sharmba Mitchell. There were guys out there—tough scary opponents like Antonio Margarito and Paul Williams—but you ran from them. Were you ever on the track team in high school? You would have been a star.
Boxing will also be a better place without the Mouth. Your mouth, to be precise, the one that created “Money” Mayweather. I know you needed that Money Mayweather persona. Before he—and Golden Boy -Promotions—came along, nobody watched your fights. You couldn’t even sell out your hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan. The Mouth made you money. More money than you could spend in a lifetime. (Wait, I’ve seen those episodes of 24/7. You probably will spend it all.) But the Mouth doesn’t have a place in boxing; save it for the WWE. Unless you’re someone like Ali, whose fights were as scintillating as his banter, the all-talk, no-entertainment model cheapens our sport. Boxers should speak with their fists and with their hearts. They don’t have to say anything to prove themselves. You’re going to have a legacy. You’ll be remembered as the guy who made the most money. As for your fights? We’ve already forgotten them.
Now that you’re stepping aside, attention can be turned to the sport’s real stars: the brawlers, the brave, the boxers who want nothing more than to face the best and therefore be the best. There’s Canelo, Kazakh KO sensation Gennady Golovkin, ferocious flyweight Román González, slugger Sergey Kovalev and a host of up-and-comers including Terence Crawford, Vasyl Lomachenko and Keith Thurman. Want to see what a monster fight looks like? Canelo takes on Miguel Cotto on November 21. It won’t do 4.4 million in PPV buys, but everyone who watches it will be thrilled. And that’s no empty promise.
You’re moving on to a new phase of life now, a second act. I’m sure it will be nice not to have to train year-round. To get out of the gym and spend time with your family. But I’m wondering what you’re going to do. You have a lot of time and, at the moment, a lot of money. Maybe you’ll put your true skills to work and open a used-car dealership or run a circus. Or maybe you’ll wind up back on Dancing With the Stars. It’s a job that’s safe, pays well and lets you run around on stage. Something you’ve been doing for most of your career."
"Dear Floyd:
You did it. You made it to the 49–0 mark, a milestone that you like to say only the great Rocky -Marciano reached but that was actually achieved by others, including my idol Julio César Chávez—but who’s counting? And now you’re retiring. Again. (The first time was after our fight in 2007.) This time you say it’s for real. You’re serious about hanging up the gloves. On to bigger and better things. So I’m writing to you today to wish you a fond farewell. Truth be told, I’m not unhappy to see you retire. Neither are a lot of boxing fans. Scratch that. MOST boxing fans. Why? Because the fight game will be a better one without you in it.
Let’s face it: You were boring. Just take a look at your most recent performance, your last hurrah in the ring, a 12-round decision against Andre Berto. How to describe it? A bust? A disaster? A snooze fest? An affair so one-sided that on one judge’s card Berto didn’t win a single round? Everyone in boxing knew Berto didn’t have a chance. I think more people watched Family Guy reruns that night than tuned in to that pay-per-view bout. But I didn’t mind shelling out $75 for the HD broadcast. In fact it’s been a great investment. When my kids have trouble falling asleep, I don’t have to read to them anymore. I just play them your Berto fight. They don’t make it past round three.
Another reason boxing is better off without you: You were afraid. Afraid of taking chances. Afraid of risk. A perfect example is your greatest “triumph,” the long-awaited record-breaking fight between you and Manny Pacquiao. Nearly 4.5 million buys! More than $400 million in revenue! Headlines worldwide! How can that be bad for boxing? Because you lied. You promised action and entertainment and a battle for the ages, and you delivered none of the above. The problem is, that’s precisely how you want it. You should have fought Pacquiao five years ago, not five months ago. That, however, would have been too dangerous. Too risky. You’ve made a career out of being cautious. You won’t get in the ring unless you have an edge. Sure, you fought some big names. But they were past their prime. Hell, even when we fought in 2007—and I barely lost a split decision—I was at the tail end of my career. Then later you took on Mexican megastar Saúl “Canelo” -Álvarez, but he was too young and had to drop too much weight.
Me? I got into this business to take chances. I took on all comers in their prime. The evidence? I lost. Six times. After 31 wins, my first loss was to Félix Trinidad, and I learned a valuable lesson that is true both in the ring and in life: Don’t run. I didn’t stop taking on the best of the best. After beating Derrell Coley, I took on “Sugar” Shane Mosley at the height of his powers—undefeated and considered by many to be the pound-for-pound best in the world. Again, I lost. After four wins against more top-ranked fighters I took on Mosley again. We can debate who actually won the rematch, but the judges had me losing that one as well.
Did I go easy after that? No. I moved up to middleweight to win a belt and faced one of the greatest middleweights of all time, Bernard Hopkins. After a body shot that I’m still feeling took me out of the fight, I took on two more guys at the height of their power who, many years later, would finally face each other at the ages of 36 and 38—Manny Pacquiao and you. When fighters do that—when they risk losing—that’s when everyone wins. The mantra of my firm Golden Boy Promotions is simple: the best taking on the best. It’s too bad you didn’t do the same.
You took the easy way out. When you weren’t dancing around fading stars (show idea for you: Dancing Around the Fading Stars), you were beating up on outclassed opponents. A lot of your opponents were above-average fighters, but they weren’t your caliber. You’re a very talented fighter, the best defensive fighter of our generation. But what good is talent if you don’t test it? Muhammad Ali did. Sugar Ray Leonard did. You? Not a chance. You spent 2000 to 2010 facing forgettable opening acts like Victoriano Sosa, Phillip N’dou, DeMarcus Corley, Henry Bruseles and Sharmba Mitchell. There were guys out there—tough scary opponents like Antonio Margarito and Paul Williams—but you ran from them. Were you ever on the track team in high school? You would have been a star.
Boxing will also be a better place without the Mouth. Your mouth, to be precise, the one that created “Money” Mayweather. I know you needed that Money Mayweather persona. Before he—and Golden Boy -Promotions—came along, nobody watched your fights. You couldn’t even sell out your hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan. The Mouth made you money. More money than you could spend in a lifetime. (Wait, I’ve seen those episodes of 24/7. You probably will spend it all.) But the Mouth doesn’t have a place in boxing; save it for the WWE. Unless you’re someone like Ali, whose fights were as scintillating as his banter, the all-talk, no-entertainment model cheapens our sport. Boxers should speak with their fists and with their hearts. They don’t have to say anything to prove themselves. You’re going to have a legacy. You’ll be remembered as the guy who made the most money. As for your fights? We’ve already forgotten them.
Now that you’re stepping aside, attention can be turned to the sport’s real stars: the brawlers, the brave, the boxers who want nothing more than to face the best and therefore be the best. There’s Canelo, Kazakh KO sensation Gennady Golovkin, ferocious flyweight Román González, slugger Sergey Kovalev and a host of up-and-comers including Terence Crawford, Vasyl Lomachenko and Keith Thurman. Want to see what a monster fight looks like? Canelo takes on Miguel Cotto on November 21. It won’t do 4.4 million in PPV buys, but everyone who watches it will be thrilled. And that’s no empty promise.
You’re moving on to a new phase of life now, a second act. I’m sure it will be nice not to have to train year-round. To get out of the gym and spend time with your family. But I’m wondering what you’re going to do. You have a lot of time and, at the moment, a lot of money. Maybe you’ll put your true skills to work and open a used-car dealership or run a circus. Or maybe you’ll wind up back on Dancing With the Stars. It’s a job that’s safe, pays well and lets you run around on stage. Something you’ve been doing for most of your career."
Sunday, November 8, 2015
A trainer and his fighter
On Saturday night, WBO welterweight titlist Timothy Bradley (33-1-1, 13 KOs) out-boxed, out-hustled, and outclassed a shot and out of shape former world titlist Brandon Rios (33-3-1, 24 KOs) in the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas. Bradley put on a boxing clinic against the straightforward brawler and ended up knocking him out with a multitude of body shots in the ninth round. Bradley displayed immense defensive skill I have never seen in his previous fights. Amazing what seven weeks with one of the greatest boxing trainers on earth could do. That trainer is Theodore “Teddy” Atlas.
Teddy agreed to train Bradley after swearing he would never return to work with fighters after a brief stint with former heavyweight Titlist Alexander Povetkin a few years ago. Teddy is most widely known these days for being an exceptional boxing commentator. In fact, he's one of the best in the business. Although prior to putting on the headset and preaching the gospel of the sweet science, Teddy trained several fighters most notably heavyweight champions Michael Moorer and Mike Tyson.
Teddy is a true boxing savant who teaches the true essence of "hit and not gets hit.” Teddy has a huge emphasis on defense. Teddy is an outspoken trainer who is not shy about harping on his boxers to maintain discipline and focus throughout the fight. A classic Teddy moment is when he told Michael Moorer to stand up from his stool in between rounds during a championship fight against the great Evander Holyfield. Teddy decided to sit on the stool and tear Moorer a new one in an attempt to motivate him. Teddy is still the same emotional and passionate Teddy, as he was on full display in the corner of Bradley.
Although I saw something very unique about the demeanor of Bradley when Teddy was feeding him information in the corner. Bradley was wide-eyed and soaking it all in. Teddy had Bradley’s full attention and he hung on every word Teddy said.
A trainer/fighter relationship in combat sports is crucial. Like any important relationship, in life, the pair has to work well with one another. There have to be open lines of communication, transparency, and most of all trust. A fighter depends on the trainer to guide him through the unforgiving sport, not only in the corner but throughout training camp. If the fighter can not depend on his trainer, the consequence could be deadly..literally. The trainer is a teacher, friend, motivator, and even a therapist. The trainer has to be there day in and day out, is just as committed as the fighter.
There have been many examples of phenomenal fighter/trainer pairings. Examples such as Dundee/Ali, D’amato/Tyson, Stewart/Hearns, Stewart/Klitschko, Roach/Pacquiao, and Mcgirt/Gatti. Of course, you can't forget about the father and son duos such as the Trinidads, the Calzaghe's, the Mosleyses, and last but not the least, the Mayweathers.
The boxing world is now comparing the chemistry that Teddy and Bradley have to the great chemistry Roach and Cotto have after only one fight. Teddy is now even calling out Mayweather. Although I do agree Bradley looked excellent against Rios, Teddy should give his fighter a fight or two to get accustomed to him before stepping in with the "retired" pound-for-pound best fighter in the world.
So in due time, we can only hope this is another phenomenal fighter/trainer pairing that will be remembered for a long time.
Teddy agreed to train Bradley after swearing he would never return to work with fighters after a brief stint with former heavyweight Titlist Alexander Povetkin a few years ago. Teddy is most widely known these days for being an exceptional boxing commentator. In fact, he's one of the best in the business. Although prior to putting on the headset and preaching the gospel of the sweet science, Teddy trained several fighters most notably heavyweight champions Michael Moorer and Mike Tyson.
Teddy is a true boxing savant who teaches the true essence of "hit and not gets hit.” Teddy has a huge emphasis on defense. Teddy is an outspoken trainer who is not shy about harping on his boxers to maintain discipline and focus throughout the fight. A classic Teddy moment is when he told Michael Moorer to stand up from his stool in between rounds during a championship fight against the great Evander Holyfield. Teddy decided to sit on the stool and tear Moorer a new one in an attempt to motivate him. Teddy is still the same emotional and passionate Teddy, as he was on full display in the corner of Bradley.
Although I saw something very unique about the demeanor of Bradley when Teddy was feeding him information in the corner. Bradley was wide-eyed and soaking it all in. Teddy had Bradley’s full attention and he hung on every word Teddy said.
A trainer/fighter relationship in combat sports is crucial. Like any important relationship, in life, the pair has to work well with one another. There have to be open lines of communication, transparency, and most of all trust. A fighter depends on the trainer to guide him through the unforgiving sport, not only in the corner but throughout training camp. If the fighter can not depend on his trainer, the consequence could be deadly..literally. The trainer is a teacher, friend, motivator, and even a therapist. The trainer has to be there day in and day out, is just as committed as the fighter.
There have been many examples of phenomenal fighter/trainer pairings. Examples such as Dundee/Ali, D’amato/Tyson, Stewart/Hearns, Stewart/Klitschko, Roach/Pacquiao, and Mcgirt/Gatti. Of course, you can't forget about the father and son duos such as the Trinidads, the Calzaghe's, the Mosleyses, and last but not the least, the Mayweathers.
The boxing world is now comparing the chemistry that Teddy and Bradley have to the great chemistry Roach and Cotto have after only one fight. Teddy is now even calling out Mayweather. Although I do agree Bradley looked excellent against Rios, Teddy should give his fighter a fight or two to get accustomed to him before stepping in with the "retired" pound-for-pound best fighter in the world.
So in due time, we can only hope this is another phenomenal fighter/trainer pairing that will be remembered for a long time.
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Alexander Povetkin retains title, Wilder next?
They didn't have knives, but both men suffered cut.
Alexander Povetkin (30-1, 22KOs) retained his title after a dominating performance over Mariusz Wach (31-2, 17KOs) on Wednesday night at the Basket-Hall Arena, Kazan, Russia.
In the early round, Wach's long jab did the damage to Povetkin's left eye that made Povetkin's corner busy working with the cut the entire fight.
But in the middle rounds, Povetkin stepped up his offense, cracking Wach with a hard right and left hooks to the head. And in the late rounds, Povetkin opened a cut on Wach's left eye that forced the ringside doctor to stop the fight after Round 11.
With the win, Povetkin could be facing undefeated American Deontay Wilder -- holder of another heavyweight title.