Cotto vs Ali weights: Cotto 151.6lbs, Ali 153lbs

Miguel Cotto and Sadam Ali both hopped on the scales and registered below the junior middleweight limits. Cotto weighed 151.6 pounds while Ali 153 pounds for their Saturday night bout at the Madison Square Garden in New York City.

Cotto of Caguas Puerto Rico will be lacing up his gloves for the final time in a professional fight. He will face the younger Sadam Ali who moves up in weight for this fight.

So everything is good to go! Cotto looks to be in tip-top shape and Ali looks confident on his new weight. A good spectacle is expected tonight, though many believed Cotto will be too much for Ali. Well, they said in basketball the ball is round. In boxing, for sure both men will come out swinging, so who lands best might turn the lights off instantly.

Will it be a W on the final fight ledger of the great Miguel Cotto? Or can Ali makes a point on Cotto to really hang it up for good?

Questions will be answered tonight. Excited to see how Cotto will exit boxing tonight!

Ryota Murata evens the score, retires Hassan N'Dam N'Jikam in Round 7

Ryota Murata wasted no time and immediately marched forward toward Hassan N'Dam N'Jikam firing heavy shots from the start of the first round of their middleweight rematch in Tokyo Japan, Saturday night.

It was definitely Round 13 as the Murata didn't need any round to feel Hassan. He worked hard and threw heavy punches against a backpedaling opponent. In Round 2, Hassan adjusted and tried to engage Murata but the Japanese landed more blows than Hassan felt. Hassan resorted to holding looking the fight ugly.

In Round 4, Murata stepped up his work and hurt Hassan. The French national tried to fight back but Murata was accurate with punches. Murata's overhand right to the head left and a hook to the body combination were very effective.

In Round 6, the pace of the fight slowed down a bit in the first minute as Murata relaxed his offense. Hassan looking tired too. Then Murata exploded with a five-punch combo that stunned Hassan.

In Round 7, Hassan tried to box Murata from the center of the rings as Murata continued to pour more pressure, following Hassan leading with his stiff jab that snaps Hassan's head back several times.

Hassan did not answer the bell that signals to begin Round 8. Murata won via RTD 7.

Murata was emotional after knowing N'Dam N'Jikam want no more from him. His record improved to 13 wins, 10 by KOs with only one defeat, which he avenged tonight retaining the middleweight title.

Jorge Linares gets split decision victory over Luke Campbell, wants Mikey Garcia next

LOS ANGELES (Sept. 23, 2017) Jorge "El Niño de Oro" Linares (43-3, 27 KOs) successfully defended his WBA, WBC Diamond and Ring Magazine Lightweight Titles with a split decision victory against the English southpaw "Cool Hand" Luke Campbell(17-2, 14 KOs) at Los Angeles' "Fabulous" Forum. Linares dropped Campbell in the second round with a hard right hand and engaged in explosive exchanges in each round to win with scores of 115-112 and 114-113, while one judge scored the fight 115-113 for Campbell.

"I fought very well," said Jorge Linares. "I'm happy with the fight. At the fifth round, we had some trouble but we came out on top. Trust me, I have a great connection with my team and with my trainer, so we worked hard and kept at it. I knew I had to let the dogs out. We want Mikey Garcia next."

"No one can ever doubt my hard work," said Luke Campbell. "Yes, I got off to a rocky start. He [Linares] caught me in the eye. A nice shot that put me on the mat. But I had to fight. I had to get focused. I didn't think he was landing any shots whatsoever in the second half."

Filipino KO artist Romero Duno wins unanimous decision against Juan Sanchez

Opening the international broadcast, Filipino knockout artist Romero Duno (15-1, 13 KOs) scored an eight-round unanimous decision victory against Tabasco, Mexico's Juan Sanchez (29-13, 14 KOs) in a lightweight fight. Duno punished Sanchez to the body and head in each and every round, which earned him the victory with three scores of 78-74.

"I'm satisfied with my performance," said Romero Duno. "Sanchez was a tough competitor, he fights clean and I respect him. I've learned a lot from this fight and am going to take the lessons I've learned onto the next."

Azat "Crazy A" Hovhannisyan (13-2, 10 KOs), the exciting Armenian super bantamweight contender with a spectacular style, earned the vacant WBC Continental Americas Super Bantamweight Title with a unanimous decision victory against Guadalajara, Mexico's Sergio Frias (19-8-2, 10 KOs). Although the resident of Los Angeles was cut above the left eye in the middle of the fight, Hovhannisyan won with two scores of 100-90 and one score of 98-92.

"We're very happy to get this big belt," said Azat Hovhannisyan. "This has been years in the making and I fought in the ring with basically one hand as I fractured my right hand. The swelling reappeared during the fight. Frias was a tough opponent, but we put in the work to get the win."

Abraham "Chamaco" Lopez (23-1-1, 16 KOs) of La Puente, California scored a fifth-round technical knockout victory against Isao Carranza (15-10-1, 9 KOs) of Mexico City, Mexico in a scheduled eight-round super featherweight fight.

"The fight went well," said Abraham Lopez. "I wish I would've finished him earlier, but he was a true warrior. It was a good fight. This fight was something I wanted to do, something I was waiting for. What's next? Whatever the company has in mind. I'll be working on everything; win or lose you always learn something. It doesn't stop. We're not perfect. I know I made mistakes, but we're going to keep working."

In the first fight of the evening, super bantamweight prospect Rafael "El Alikin" Gramajo (9-1-1, 2 KOs) of Los Angeles scored a tough six-round unanimous victory against Pedro Melo (17-16-2, 8 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico.

"I feel good," said Rafael Gramajo. "I feel we started off well. I'm proud of myself. I had not fought in a year, and we fought the fight that we wanted to. In boxing, there is always a punch that could catch you and hurt you, but thank God it didn't hurt. I kept boxing and it was a good fight."

Saul Alvarez vs Gennady Golovkin: Canelo, GGG make weights

Saul Canelo Alvarez and Gennady Golovkin both make the 160-pound middleweight limit during the official weigh-in on Friday (US time). Both weighed 160 pounds when they hit the scales for their anticipated middleweight championship fight on Saturday night at the T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas.

GGG (37-0, 33KOs) came in first onto the scales wearing the usual smile. He looked strong and ready to go. He's been fighting in the middleweight division since his professional boxing debut in 2006. There's no sign that he outgrows the division as he has no problem making the required division limit.

Canelo (49-1-1, 34KOs) came next and registered the same as GGG, 160 pounds. He looked muscular, strong and also ready to go. While in the junior middleweight division Canelo showed signs that he outgrown the division he dominated since 2010.

At the stare-off, the height advantage of GGG is obvious. Well, more on this advantage/disadvantage subject if I have the time to write the preview of this fight.

Meanwhile, many had said that if May-Mac was a show, but Canelo-GGG is a fight! I agree 101 percent.  I'm excited already.

Día de Muertos! Happy Mexican Independence Day.

Niall Kennedy wins controversial decision over Alexis Santos

MASHANTUCKET, CT (September 16, 2017) - Undefeated Irishman Niall "Boom Boom" Kennedy won a controversial 10-round split decision versus defending champion Alexis Santos to capture the New England heavyweight championship in last night's (Saturday) main event of Broadway Boxing held in Fox Theater, at Foxwoods Resort Casino, in Mashantucket, CT.

The Broadway Boxing series is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, and Christos Steak House. Last night's show, which was streamed by FightNight LIVE on Facebook, was promoted in association with Murphys Boxing.

Kennedy (9-0, 5 KOs), fighting out of Galway, Ireland, by way of Boston, battled Santos in a competitive, action-packed brawl to be awarded the N.E. title by scores of 96-93, 96-93, 93-96. The majority of fans in attendance, outside of Kennedy's Irish supporters, and the ringside media felt that Santos, from Lawrence, MA, had the edge and deserved the decision.

Referee Al LoBianco deducted a point from Santos in the ninth round for a highly questionable low blow and failed to rule a knockdown when it appeared the ropes kept Kennedy upright in a tremendous last round surge from the Dominican American.

In the co-featured bout, former world champion Shelly "Shelito's Way" Vincent (20-1, 1 KO), of Providence, RI, defeated former world title challenger Angel "Non-Stop" Gladney (9-13-1, 6 KOs) in a junior lightweight match. The colorful Vincent was the aggressor throughout the fight, effectively cutting off the ring, outboxing and walking down Gladney for a lop-sided eight-round unanimous decision (80-72, 80-71 twice).
Shelly Vincent (L) outclassed Angel Gladney

Rising Connecticut welterweight star "Marvelous" Mykquan Williams improved his record to 8-0 (4 KOs), pitching a complete shutout in an impressive six-round unanimous decision (all 60-54) win over a much more experienced and considerably taller Evincii "Prize Fighter" Dixon (7-20-2, 2 KOs). Williams is a 19-year-old from East Hartford who is a freshman at Manchester Community College.
Mykquan Williams (L) cruised to another victory

2012 Ukrainian Olympian Ievgen "The Ukrainian Lion" Khytrov (15-1, 13 KOs), fighting out of Brooklyn, bounced back from his only pro loss with a near shutout eight-round decision victory (80-72 twice, 79-73) over his always tough super middleweight adversary, battle-tested veteran Derrick "Superman" Finley (27-22-1, 18 KOs).

"It was different when I first started training after a loss," Khytrov said after the fight. "I started to think more and work on my defense; to fight much smarter instead of just brawling, throwing punches, like I did before my loss. I came the US four years ago from a small country that's not rich to become a world champion. I feel I'm back on the right track.
Ievgen Khytrov (R) bounced back with a solid win

Hot New England junior welterweight prospect Adrian "Tonka" Sosa (5-0, 4 KOs) stepped up in class against Mexican Francisco "El Mono" Medel (11-10, 7 KOs), and remained undefeated by displaying his overall game, offensively and defensively. Fighting out of Lawrence, MA, the 2014 N.E. amateur champion Sosa dropped Medal with a straight right in the first round, a sneaky body shot in the second and finished him off in the third with a crisp right to the temple as referee Al LoBianco immediately halted the action.

Pro-debuting welterweights Nicky DeQuattro (1-0, 1 KO) and Timothy Wheeler (0-1) engaged in a street fight from the opening bell until DeQuartro, fighting out of Johnson, RI, connected with an overhand right that dropped his New York City rival.  Moments later, DeQuattro unleashed a four-punch combination that dropped Wheeler for a complete 10-count.

The night started with a barnburner as former Irish amateur standout Ray Moylette(6-0, 2 KOs) kept his undefeated pro record intact but it certainly wasn't easy.  Moylette overcame a second-round knockdown, coming back strong in the second half of the fight to take a six-round split decision versus game junior welterweight Donte Bryant (1-3-1, 1 KO).

Canelo vs Golovkin Final Press Conference Quotes

LAS VEGAS (Sept. 13, 2017) - Lineal and Ring Magazine Middleweight Champion Canelo Alvarez (49-1-1, 34 KOs) and WBC/WBA/IBF/IBO Middleweight Champion Gennady "GGG" Golovkin (37-0, 33 KOs) hosted the final press conference ahead of their showdown on Saturday, Sept. 16 presented live on HBO Pay-Per-View® at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas beginning at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT. The live stream of the press conference can be viewed here.

Below is what the fighters and their teams had to say at today's final press conference:

CANELO ALVAREZ, Lineal and Ring Magazine Middleweight Champion:
"I don't like to talk too much. I just want to say that I'm prepared. I know it will be a tough fight. I just want you all to enjoy it like I'm going to enjoy it. I'm really, really excited to get in and fight. The excitement is there. The adrenaline is there. I have nothing to say to him. They know what kind of fighter I am. I'm prepared. I'm ready. All I want to tell him is look, let's give the fans a great fight."

GENNADY "GGG" GOLOVKIN, WBC/WBA/IBF/IBO Middleweight Champion:
"I am really happy to see everybody in Vegas. I want to thank Golden Boy and GGG Promotions for the great work, our sponsors and HBO. I don't want to talk too much. I am ready. I respect Canelo's team. This is a big day not only for us, but for boxing and this era. This will be a huge historic fight at T-Mobile Arena. I feel comfortable. I see that Canelo is ready. He is ready for serious business, a serious fight. This fight will be the biggest gift to the people."

EDDY REYNOSO, Head Trainer of Canelo Alvarez:
"Everything that was said or had to be said has been said. We've had a great preparation, more than 14 years to prepare for this type of fight. We've had a great camp, no injuries, everything went well, and more importantly we are ready to win come Saturday night."

JOSE "CHEPO" REYNOSO, Manager and Trainer of Canelo Alvarez:
"This is the end of 10 hard weeks of training. Work that was done with a lot of discipline and a lot of responsibility. In Canelo's camp, we declare ourselves ready and confident thatthis Saturday we will win. Canelo is going to come out with his hand raised. I want to close with a dedication to my friend Abel Sanchez. He says Triple G has a Mexican style. But I tell Abel that not only does Canelo have a Mexican style and a Mexican heart, but he IS Mexican!"

ABEL SANCHEZ, Trainer to Gennady Golovkin:
"All the talking and the boasting on both sides is done. We've had a great training camp and sparring. Golovkin is at 100 percent. We are looking forward to a great fight, a dramatic, explosive fight. These guys have the styles that will make for a fight that we will all remember."

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, CEO & Chairman of Golden Boy Promotions:
"This is a fight to see who the best pound-for-pound fighter on the planet is. I am grateful to everyone in the boxing world who contributed to making this event. This event needs no hype whatsoever. This is a fight that's a can't-miss event. That's the bottom line. It's going to be a great fight because of what is at stake: pride and fighting for your country and boxing fans. This is a fight for the sport of boxing, and it couldn't have come at a better time. The stakes couldn't be higher."

"We have to thank the fighters for agreeing for competing at the very peak of their careers.Saturday night at the T-Mobile arena it will be electrifying, a packed house. This event will take place life at HBO Pay-Per-View for the first time ever at 8:00pm ET in consideration of our east coast fans and our worldwide fanbase. You can also watch the fight atRingTV.com on your phone or table or from wherever you are."

BERNARD HOPKINS, Golden Boy Promotions Business Partner:
"The middleweight division goes all the way back. I thought about this fight when I got here yesterday. The fight that really stands out to me in comparison to Canelo-Golovkin, with the danger in the first couple of rounds, is Marvin Hagler and John Mugabi. One thing, however, is that history doesn't always repeat itself. Thank you to Canelo Alvarez and Gennady Golovkin for respecting the division that made me."

TOM LOEFFLER, Promoter of Gennady "GGG" Golovkin:
"We arrived on Monday evening, and as soon as we arrived at the hotel you could feel the excitement in the air. An event like this can only be a superfight between somebody like Canelo Alvarez and Gennady Golovkin. They are two true world champions. The two best middleweights in the world. Two of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world, and two of the most marketable fighters of the world."

TONY WALKER, Vice President at HBO Sports:
"Congratulations to Tom and Oscar for putting this together. This is truly a momentous event this Saturday. This is the best fight that can be made in boxing. This is potentially fight we think about in years to come. The first fight will be at 5:00 p.m. PT/ 8:00 p.m. ET. The main event is scheduled for 8:00pm PT/11:00 ET. The price is $69.95."

BOB BENNETT, Executive Director of Nevada Athletic State Commission:
"As always, the Nevada State Athletic Commission is humbled, honored and privileged to be able to regulate this sensational fight. We take a great deal of effort in the selection of our officials for our fight. We have Kenny Bayless who will referee the fight. The judges will be Dave Moretti, Adalaide Byrd and Don Trella."

RICHARD STURM, President of Entertainment and Sports for MGM Resorts International:
"As we welcome back Canelo Alvarez following his May victory over Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr., we would also like to welcome Triple G to Las Vegas for his Nevada debut. We are thrilled that these two great champs decided to fight. The event is sold out, but our closed-circuit broadcast will be presented in all MGM Resort properties."

Also, fighters from the Canelo vs. Golovkin undercard hosted a media workout at MGM Resort Hotel and Casino before their upcoming fights this Saturday, Sept. 16 at T-Mobile Arena.

Against all odds: The Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs Conor McGregor spectacle

With eyes closed, I can tell you, of course, who will win between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Conor McGregor. Obviously, it's... ahh... Do I need to mention it? That is because the fight is in the boxing ring. Not only that, if you look at everything on each guy's ledger all point to Mayweather's favor.

First, if we look at Conor's record in boxing at Boxrec it says triple "0". In Arabic, they called it "bateek". Boxing debutante actually. Okay fine, let's look at Conor's MMA record. The UFC superstar's MMA record as per mixmartialarts.com is 22-3-0 (Win-Loss-Draw). The undefeated Mayweather's boxing record per boxrec.com is 49-0-0, 26 KOs (Win-Loss-Draw). Conor's wins not even surpassed the numbers of Floyd's KO victories. But of course, if the fight is in the cage, I'll bet on McGregor.

Actually, it's a monotony to point out things why Mayweather will win on Saturday night at the T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas because I'm not alone here. The boxing community I believe is unanimous in its prediction.

But well, it's not a reason for me not to watch it. But not a good reason to buy a PPV though. We all know exactly, what is the outcome. But of course, we want to see how it happens. I'm not belittling Connot here, but, you know, the fight is in the boxing ring. All respect to Conor, he's a good MMA fighter. He's just fighting in a different sport and the best in boxing.

It would be a spectacle of course that goes down into history. Two different combat sports stars meet in the boxing ring. I like to see a rematch in the cage to be fair in MMA. It will be exciting to see if Conor forgets that he's inside a boxing ring and start kicking Mayweather. Well, heavy penalties will be imposed if Conor kicks Mayweather.

Okay... that's all folks! Enjoy the match on Saturday night.

Lomachenko must face Rigondeux

Lomachenko (9-1, 7 KOs) defeated Miguel Marriaga (25-3, 21 KOs) in a very one-sided match at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, Saturday night. He was just simply multiple steps ahead in every way against Marriaga. He kept the pressure bringing the fight to Marriaga who was on his back foot throughout the course of the fight.

As early as Round 3, Vasyl started clowning around Marriaga. He stood in front of Marriaga and opening up his defense to invite the fighter from Colombia to come in. Well, Marriaga tried to, but only to get hit by a short left straight from Lomachenko that put his ass on the floor. Loma's first knockdown score of the fight.

After the mandatory 10-count, Vasyl went to the corner and tempted Marriaga to come in for a phone booth fight. Marriaga did not oblige but rather threw 1-2's and get out of harm's way.

In the fourth frame, Loma just simply overwhelmed Marriaga with accuracy, speed, volume punching, and defensive prowess. The clowning continued in the succeeding rounds; moving his face forward, positioning himself in the neutral corner, and all those stuff. Then in Round 7, the 29-year old champ from Ukraine by way of Oxnard peppered Marriaga with power punches and knocking Marriaga again.

Marriaga did not answer the bell that signals the start of Round 8. Loma for the win. His third consecutive RTD wins on his ledger.

I think those RTDs were enough. It's not good to see those on his resume lining up like five or 10 times. Time for him to step up and fight "The Jackal", or Terrence Crawford or Mikey Garcia. Of course, it is entertaining to see a fighter to showcase his talent. But it's exciting to watch a competitive fight regardless of the popularity status of the fighters involved.

I'd rather watch Omar Figueroa vs. Nihito Arakawa all over again and again than Vasyl with all his boxing skills to a non-competitive opponent.

Enough! Or simply put Orlando Salido back.

Adrien Broner faces Mikey Garcia at Barclay Center

While everything is Mayweather-McGregor on the internet let's not forget that we have a nice card tonight. Multi-division titlist Adrien "The Problem" Broner takes on undefeated Mikey Garcia in a 12-round jr. welterweight bout on Saturday night at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY.

On Friday night the fighters stepped on the scales for the official weigh-in. Both have no problem with their respective weights and came in below the 140-pound limit. Broner tipped the scales at 138.75 lbs. while Garcia weighed 139.5 lbs.

It was also Broner's 28th birthday on Friday's weigh-in. Leonard Ellerbe presented a birthday cake to Broner.

"I'll fu@k this nigger," says Broner when asked about his final thoughts on tomorrow's fight.

Well, I hope he does because I believed Mikey Garcia is not an easy nut to crack. He's a very calm fighter inside the savage ring. He's so methodical in his approach.

"I'm very calm. I don't let my emotions get the best out of me," says Garcia when asked about how different his style compare to Adrien.

"It's gonna be a hell of a fight and I'll come out victorious once again," said Garcia.

I'm sure it's gonna be a very entertaining fight tonight. Don't miss it, boxing people!

TED-Ed: How concussions work

I would like to share to the reader of this blog the video embedded above from TED-Ed. The great guy there at TED-Ed tackled about how concussions work. He discussed about how concussions affects the brain and person.

In boxing, like many other combat and even sports like soccer, football etc... players suffered concussions. Some were detected early on, but some were develop through the years.

According to TED-Ed "each year in the United States players of sports and recreational activities received between 2.5 to 4 million concussions."

"How dangerous are all those concussions? The answer is complicated," according to TED-Ed.

The video showed also what happen to the brain after receiving a concussion and how it affect the person's behavior.

Sparrow vs Laviolette tops Sept. 8 at 2300 arena in Philly

Philadelphia, PA—Junior lightweight Avery Sparrow, who insists on “meaningful fights” to boost his resume, finds himself in with another toughie when he boxes former four-time Canadian national amateur champion Joey Laviolette in the scheduled eight-round main event Friday evening, Sept. 8, at the 2300 Arena.

The Sparrow-Laviolette contest tops a nine-bout card which begins at 7.30 pm.

 The 23-year-old Sparrow (right) is having a good year.  In his last fight June 27 at the Sands Casino Bethlehem (PA), Sparrow scored two knockdowns and was knocked down twice himself while earning a unanimous six-round decision over previously unbeaten (6-0) southpaw Isaelin Florian, of the Dominican Republic. Earlier in 2017 at the 2300 Arena, Sparrow scored the fight’s lone knockdown while scoring an eight-round split decision over cross-town rival Anthony Burgin.

A pro since 2014, Sparrow is 7-1, 3 K0s, having lost only by disqualification (repeated low blows) to Jerome Rodriguez, of Allentown, PA, late in 2015 at the 2300 Arena.

Laviolette, 29, of Halifax, Nova Scotia, is 6-0, 4 K0s, as a pro after a prolific amateur career in which he won 85 out of 111 bouts and was a member of the Canadian National Team from 2009 to 2011.

“It’s a big opportunity to showcase my skills against a good fighter,” Laviolette said.  “This will be my first professional fight outside of Canada, but going to somebody else’s hometown to fight never bothered me as an amateur and I don’t think it’ll bother me as a professional.”

“I feel I’m right where I need to be at 6-0 and this is a perfect point in my career to have a true test against Sparrow.”

A pro since 2012, Laviolette (below left) has boxed twice this year against a pair of Mexican featherweights.  He outpointed Juan Manuel Benitez over four rounds and stopped Emmanuel Villamar in six.  Both fights were in New Brunswick, Canada.

“I really don’t care how many amateur titles he (Laviolette) won,” Sparrow said.  “For all I care, he could have gone to the Olympics and won a Gold Medal.  But this in Philadelphia and I’m a Philadelphia fighter.”

The six-round junior middleweight semifinal features the return of Philly-KillerRoque Zapata, of Culpeper, VA.  In two previous trips to the 2300 Arena, Zapata (4-1-3) has beaten local standouts Isaiah Wise and Fred Jenkins, Jr.  This time he goes against Elijah Vines, of the Germantown section of the city, who is 4-0, 4 K0s.

Fighting unbeaten opponents in their hometowns are nothing new for the 21-year-old Zapata, who upset previously undefeated local hero Justin Steave (6-0) on June 24 in Pittsburgh, PA.

Vines represents the fifth undefeated fighter Zapata has faced, all on the road.  The 22-year-old Vines stopped Harry Tyrone Paige, of Batesville, AK, in his last fight June 10 in Atlantic City, NJ.  The fight with Zapata will be Vines’ first local appearance, having boxed twice in Atlantic City and twice in Bristol, PA.

Seven additional fights complete the Sept. 8 card.  Among those featured will be Wise, welterweight Marcel Rivers and junior welterweight Victor Padilla.

Mauricio Herrera vs Jesus Soto Karass: Make or Break

INDIO, CA (July 21, 2017): As temperatures begin to swelter in Coachella Valley, so will the ring at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in a true crossroads fight between Mauricio "El Maestro" Herrera (23-7, 7 KOs) of Riverside, CA and Jesus "Renuente" Soto Karass (28-11-4, 18 KOs) of Los Mochis, Mexico. The two will face each other in a 10-round make-or-break welterweight war on the August 4th edition of Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN, to air on ESPN and ESPN Deportes at 9 P.M. EST/6 P.M. PST. Doors to the action at the Fantasy Springs Special Events Center will open at 4:00 p.m. PT.

Special guest and VIP of the night will be former three-time WBC World Super Bantamweight Champion Israel "Magnifico" Vazquez (44-5, 32 KOs) who is revered for his series of four legendary fights against fellow Mexican compatriot, Rafael Marquez. Vazquez was also a longtime holder of the IBF, Lineal and Ring Magazine titles twice from 2005 to 2008. Vazquez will be in attendance for the fights and will be on site to meet fans, sign autographs and take pictures inside the Fantasy Springs Special Events Center before the ESPN broadcast begins. The meet-and-greet is open to the public with the purchase of a ticket to the event.

As chief support, heavy-hitter Vyacheslav "Lionheart-Chingonskyy" Shabranskyy (18-1, 15 KOs) of Los Angeles will be up against rising Philly contender Todd "2 Gunz" Unthank-May (10-0-1, 4 KOs) for the vacant WBC USNBC Light Heavyweight Title. "Chingonskyy" will be on the lookout to take back the light heavyweight belt he lost to Sullivan Barrera this past December.

Hoping to make TV, undefeated Niko "Baby Face" Valdez (5-0, 5 KOs) will face Jaime "Zarco" Solorio (7-3-2, 5 KOs) of San Quintin, Mex. in a six-round super middleweight bout in hopes to continue his impressive knockout streak.

In a six-round super welterweight bout, LA's Marvin Cabrera (4-0, 4 KOs) will take a massive step up in competition with Esau Herrera (19-8-1, 10 KOs) of Tlaquepaque, Mex. Cabrera was last seen knocking out Quantavious Green at the prestigious 8th Annual "Big Fighters, Big Cause" charity boxing event hosted by legend Sugar Ray Leonard this past May.

Riverside, CA's Ricardo "El Niño" Sandoval (7-1, 7 KOs) will be fighting Durango, Mex.'s Antonio "Tony" Rodriguez (8-17-1, 5 KOs) in a six-round super flyweight match up. Known to bring the action, East L.A's Jonathan "Thunder" Navarro (10-0, 6 KOs) will participate in his first eight-round fight in a super lightweight bout against Durango, Mex.'s Angel Sarinana (7-6-2, 3 KOs). Opening up the night's festivities and representing Palmdale, CA, Cesar Diaz (5-0, 4 KOs) will go up against Angel "Terrible" Monrreal (10-9-1, 3 KOs) of Monterrey, Mex. in a six-round bantamweight affair.

Herrera vs. Soto Karass, a 10-round welterweight fight, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, Born BOLD and Hennessy "Never Stop, Never Settle." ESPN and ESPN Deportes will air the fights from Fantasy Springs Resort Casino at 9:00 p.m. ET/6: 00 p.m. PT. ESPN3 coverage of the undercard fights will begin at approximately 7:30 p.m. ET/ 4:30 p.m. PT.

Manny Pacquiao, 146 lbs., Jeff Horn, 147 lbs.

The fight is on!

Despite some speculations as to how Jeff Horn would be able to get the 147-pound welterweight weight limit. It was answered at the weigh-in as Horn (16-0-1, 11 KOs) registered just exactly at the limit.

Manny Pacquiao (59-6-2, 38 KOs), as usual, weighted below the welterweight limit at 146 pounds. So we have a fight on Sunday at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.

Below are the undercards official weights:

Co-Feature - IBF Super Flyweight World Championship (12 rounds)
Jerwin Ancajas(26-1-1, 17 KOs), Champion, Cavite City, Philippines 114 lbs.
Teiru Kinoshita (25-1-1, 8 KOs), Challenger, Kobe, Japan 115 lbs.

Middleweights (8 rounds)
Shane Mosley, Jr. (10-1, 7 KOs), Pomona, California. USA 160 lbs.
David Toussaint (10-0, 8 KOs), Canberra, Australia 160 lbs.

Featherweights (6 rounds)
Michael Conlan (2-0, 2 KOs), Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK 126 lbs.
Jarrett Owen (5-4-3, 2 KOs), Brisbane, Australia 126 lbs.

Manny Pacquiao & Freddie Roach Workout quotes from Australia

EDMONTON, Alberta, Canada (June 27, 2017) - World Boxing Organization (WBO) Welterweight World Champion Manny "Pacman' Pacquiao (59-6-2, 38 KOs) and his Hall-of-Fame trainer, Freddie Roach, held a media workout today in Australia, preparing for this Saturday night's showdown between Pacquiao and his title challenger, Jeff Horn (16-0-1, 11 KOs).

"Battle of Brisbane: Pacquiao vs. Horn," presented by Top Rank and Duco Events. will air this Saturday evening, exclusively in Canada on Super Channel, live from Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Australia.

Super Channel subscribers will be able to watch four exciting fights, starting at   9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, on the "Battle of Brisbane" card, headlined by Pacquiao vs. Horn.

PACQUIAO VS. DE LA HOYA & HATTON REPLAYS ON SC1

As a warm-up to the "Battle of Brisbane" on July 1, Super Channel will present two replays of previous Pacquiao bouts on Friday June 30starting at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT on SC1:

Manny Pacquiao vs Oscar de la Hoya- Dec. 6, 2008

Manny Pacquiao vs Ricky Hatton- May 2, 2009 (IBO World super lightweight title)

These fights will also be available on Super Channel On Demand.

See Pacquiao and Roach quotes below from today's workout:

MANNY PACQUIAO: "We have a really good plan for this fight.  We worked hard in training camp both in Manila and in General Santos City.  I'm totally focused for this fight.  I am not looking past this fight because at this point in my career, every fight is the most important.  There are no tomorrows if I don't win today.

"Jeff Horn is OK.  I've watched video of his fights.  He brings a lot of action into the ring.

"I know what he is feeling.  I remember everything about my first world title fight.

"Being a senator and training for a fight is hard.  It takes discipline and time management.  Luckily, the Senate has been in recess for the past few weeks and I have been able to focus on training for my world title fight.

"A Senator's job is to defend his people ... to fight for their rights.

"I know Jeff Horn used to be a teacher.  In the ring, I'm a teacher too.

"I am ready for Jeff to come out and be aggressive.  If he does that it will be a great fight for the fans.

"The biggest crowd I ever fought in front of was at Cowboys Stadium against Joshua Clottey. I'm told this could be bigger [51,000+].  I am very excited for doing that, even though they may not be rooting for me.  I am also very happy that ESPN will be televising it live.to the U.S.  Now everyone can see it.  It's good for boxing."

FREDDIE ROACH: "Manny is a performer.  He loves people, loves a big audience.  Brisbane has all that for this fight.  He'll be fighting in front of the biggest crowd of his career.

"Not everyone gets the opportunity to fight for a world title.  It was always my dream but I never fought for one.  It's a big deal.  Jeff Horn earned this opportunity.  He is the WBO's mandatory challenger.

"Manny gave me 110% in training camp.  He always does.  No one works harder in the gym.  The difference in this camp from recent ones has been his aggression.  He's scored several knockdowns and I haven't seen that in years.  He has kept his foot on the pedal throughout, even when he's had a sparring partner in trouble.  After his ring work he is singing and dancing - not well - but that's not the point.  He is really hungry to make a statement in this fight against Horn.  He's even playing Shakira during his workouts again and he hasn't done that in years."

Saturday night's Super Channel telecast will also feature two-time Irish Olympian Michael Conlan (2-0, 2 KOs), from Belfast, in a six-round featherweight bout against Jarrett "Juarez" Owen (5-4-3, 2 KOs), of Brisbane.In the 12-round co-feature,International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior bantamweight world champion Jerwin "Pretty Boy" Ancajas (24-1-1, 16 KOs), of Cavite City, Philippines, will defend his title against top-rated contender Teiru Kinoshita (25-1-1, 8 KOs), of Kobe, Japan.  The live telecast will open with an eight-round middleweight bout between Shane Mosley, Jr. (10-1, 7 KOs), of Pomona, Calif. and son of former three-division world champion "Sugar" Shane Mosley, and David Toussaint (10-0, 8 KOs), of Canberra, Australia.

Ward vs Kovalev rematch results: Rigondeaux wins KO over Flores in a controversial ruling

Guillermo Rigondeaux remained undefeated after getting a controversial knockout ruling victory from the officials of the bout.

Rigodeaux (18-0, 11 KO's) landed a punch after the bell was sounded to end the first round, which knocked Flores (25-1, 17 KO's) out of his consciousness for few seconds.

Referee Vic Draculich not able to make a quick decision as when the punch actually landed. The sequence of the knockout has been replayed few times. It was clear that Rigo's punch landed after the bell based on the replay. But it took the officials of the bout to come with a decision. What added to the confusion was Rigondeaux holding the back of the head of Flores during exchanges. But Rigo was no longer holding at the back of Flores' head when the brutal punch landed.

Finally, the official decision was announced by Michael Buffer. It was ruled out that the punch was legal resulting to a knockout. Hence, Rigo remained a world champion with a KO victory over Flores.

Below is the KO clip.

Have your opinion in the comment section.

Ward vs Kovalev rematch results: Luis Arias knocks out Arif Magomedov

LAS VEGAS, NV - MAY 01: Boxer Luis Arias poses during a Golden Boy Promotions portrait session at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 1, 2013 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Golden Boy/Golden Boy via Getty Images)[/caption]

Luis Arias remained undefeated after he secured a knockout victory over Arif Magomedov in the Ward vs Kovalev rematch, opening the PPV at the Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino, Events Center, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Arias (18-0, 9 KO's) landed two unanswered right hooks to the head that send Magomedov down. Magomedov (18-2, 11 KO's) was able to get up and beat the count, but Arias wasted no time and jumped in to finish the fight. The referee stepped in and stop the fight.

The official time of the stoppage was at 1:16 mark of round five.

Miguel Cotto Inks Multi-fight Deal with Golden Boy Promotions

COTTO INKS MULTIFIGHT DEAL WITH GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS STARTING WITH AUGUST 26 BATTLE AGAINST YOSHIHIRO KAMEGAI FOR VACANT WBO JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP.

Boxing legends reunite as Oscar De La Hoya and Golden Boy Promotions partner with Miguel Cotto and Miguel Cotto promotions on upcoming fights, developing prospects, and advancing boxing in Puerto Rico.

LOS ANGELES (May 31, 2017): Four-division world champion and surefire first-ballot Hall of Famer Miguel Cotto (40-5, 33 KOs) will return to Golden Boy Promotions for a multi-fight deal starting with his 12-round bout for the vacant WBO Light Middleweight World Championship against Yoshihiro "El Maestrito" Kamegai (27-3-2, 24 KOs). The fight will be on Saturday, August 26 from Carson, Calif's StubHub Center and live on HBO World Championship Boxing starting at 9:45 p.m. EST/PST.

In addition, Oscar De La Hoya and Golden Boy Promotion will partner with Cotto and Miguel Cotto Promotions on developing prospects, advancing boxing in Cotto's Puerto Rico homeland and promoting the boxing legend's upcoming fights.

"Miguel Cotto is not only a legend in the ring, but on the entire island of Puerto Rico, which has one of the richest boxing traditions around the globe," said Golden Boy Promotions Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya. "Our new partnership will include Miguel's upcoming fights; working with Miguel Cotto Promotions' talented stable of fighters; and revitalizing boxing in Puerto Rico."

A key element of the partnership will see boxing series Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN broadcast a number of cards from Puerto Rico in the coming months and years. This is the first time in 15 years that ESPN will put on a show from Puerto Rico.

"I'm very proud to establish a tremendous partnership with Golden Boy Promotions and Oscar," said Cotto, who is shooting for his sixth world title on August 27th. "It couldn't work better -- from a boxer to a boxer. We share the same mentality and language of the sport and the business. We will create the perfect opportunities for the sport of boxing and the fans."

Cotto has held world titles in the super lightweight, welterweight, junior middleweight and middleweight divisions and has fought and defeated a who's who of elite fighters over the last 15 years including Kelson Pinto, Demarcus "Chop Chop" Corley, Ricardo "Mochuelo" Torres, Paulie "Magic Man" Malignaggi, Zab "Super" Judah, Sugar Shane Mosley, Antonio "El Tornado de Tijuana" Margarito, Ricardo "El Matador" Mayorga and Sergio "Maravilla" Martinez.

"It's a big pleasure to work together with Golden Boy Promotions," said Hector Soto, Vice President of Miguel Cotto Promotions. "We've always had a great relationship beyond boxing with them for more than 10 years. We look forward to make the best fights and best shows for the fans."

Official weights Canelo vs Chavez Jr.

Saul Canelo Alvarez and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. both registered at 164 pounds during Friday's official weigh-in for their anticipated 12-round super middleweight fight on Saturday night at the T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada, and can be seen live on HBO Pay-Per-View. The fight was agreed at a catch-weight of 164.5 pounds. It was stipulated in the contract that every pound over the agreed weight, has to pay a penalty equivalent to $ 1M.

Canelo (48-1-1, 34 KOs) looked perfectly comfortable at the weight he is at during the weigh-in. He's looking strong and ready to go for tonight's fight. Canelo had never weighed more than 154 pounds in any of his past bouts. Although it is very obvious that he's gone bigger and definitely has outgrown the junior middleweight limit. We'll he still can make the 154-pound limit, but for sure not with ease. Everybody is calling him to move up in weight as the big names were in the middleweight division.

Chavez Jr. (50-2-1, 32 KOs), we all know that he walks around more than 175 pounds because he used to balloon in between fights. His last bout was against Dominik Britsch, he weighed in at 168 pounds, and few fights earlier, he weighted at the light heavyweight territory. So, surprisingly Junior came in under the agreed catchweight. But of course, he doesn't look comfortable. I mean, he looks so drained. Although I notice that his lips were not looking pale -- it was so red actually -- that I thought he was wearing lipsticks. Naaa... the fans that were there during the weigh-in can confirm, that's just my observation.

Anyway, the fighters came in at the desired weight and so... we have a fight on Saturday night.

Canelo vs Chavez, Jr. Undercard Final Press Conference Quotes, Photos

LAS VEGAS (May 4, 2017) - Fighters on the undercard of Canelo vs. Chavez, Jr. hosted a press conference today at MGM Grand Hotel and Casino ahead of their bouts on Saturday, May 6. Co-main event fighters former IBF Middleweight Champion David Lemieux (37-3, 33 KOs) and Middleweight contender Marco "Dorado" Reyes (35-4, 26 KOs) were joined by former WBC Silver Super Lightweight Champion Lucas "La Maquina" Matthysse (37-4, 34 KOs), Welterweight contender Emmanuel "Tranzformer" Taylor (20-4, 14 KOs), NABF Featherweight Champion Joseph "Jojo" Diaz, Jr. and IBA Featherweight Champion Manuel "Tino" Avila (22-0, 8 KOs) on the HBO Pay-Per-View portion beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

Fighting on the preliminary undercard "free view" stream beginning at 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT, lightweight prospect Ryan "Kingry" Garcia (8-0, 7 KOs) will face Tyrone Luckey (8-6-3, 6 KOs) and flyweight prospect Marlen Esparza (1-0) will take on Samantha Salazar (2-3-1). Former Mexican Olympian Raul "El Cugar" Curiel will make his pro debut against Jesus Sanchez (1-1-2).

Super bantamweight contender Ronny Rios (27-1, 12 KOs) will fight Daniel Noriega (28-10-1, 15 KOs) and lightweight prospect Joseph "Diamante" Aguirre (16-0, 9 KOs) will take on Angel Aispuro (8-4-2) beginning at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.

Below is what the fighters and their teams had to say at today's final press conference:

ERIC GOMEZ, President of Golden Boy Promotions:

"We at Golden Boy Promotions have stacked this card from top to bottom, and I believe it is our best undercard yet with fighters from three continents here making this a global event on Cinco de Mayo. Throughout the night of May 6, fans will see a range of great action fights from some of our top prospects; to battles of undefeated contenders; to the return of former world champions.

"I also just received confirmation that our May 5th show tomorrow is completely sold out, thank you to all of our fight fans who have sold out this show and our May 6th show.

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

"I want the young fighters to know this a great opportunity to be on this Cinco de Mayo undercard with Canelo and Chavez, Jr. This is a great moment to become a champion and be a part of this historical event. Take care of business, and be sure to put on a great show."

TONY WALKER, Vice President of HBO Pay-Per-View:

"Our distributors have always told us undercards matter, when you think about it-there is four hours of time to fill. People want to be entertained during that time, so it really helps when you have an exciting undercard to the main event."

"We feel David Lemieux, Lucas Matthysse, Joseph Diaz Jr., all enhance this card and from their strong fan bases in Canada, Argentina and Los Angeles, we expect the fans to be very happy with these great fights."

CAMILLE ESTEPHAN, President of Eye of the Tiger Management:

"This is very exciting, as a fan of boxing, this is an amazing card. Every fight is a must-see. I want to mention the industry of boxing-with the right fights, people come out. We are here to contribute to this great show. David is read, and you can expect fireworks from this co-main event."

DAVID LEMIEUX, Former IBF Middleweight World Champion:

"I'm back, I'm expecting this to be a great night of boxing and to put on a show. I started training immediately after my last fight in March and look forward to Saturday night."

MARCO "DORADO" REYES, Middleweight Contender:

"Without my team, I wouldn't be here. This is going to be an explosive fight between two big puncher fighters in the ring."

MARIO ARANO, President of Arano Boxing:

"We're very excited and very happy for this fight-moving up to weight to welterweight has been a blessing for us. We have a team that has worked with Lucas for 14 years, and it has been a blessing to move up in weight divisions. There is no possibility for Lucas to return to 140. I want to remind you all, Lucas never retired, he is back and ready to give more wars."

LUCAS "LA MAQUINA" MATTHYSSE, Former WBC Silver Super Lightweight Champion:

"Training camp has been great with Joel Diaz, it has worked so well with him. I'm going to put on a great fight-see everyone on Saturday."

JOE DEGUARDIA, President of Star Boxing:

"There are many special things about the Canelo vs. Chavez, Jr. fight. I'm extremely impressed with the undercard, and it is amazing we can put together a quality card like this for the fight. It's a true testimony to the sport."

EMANUEL "TRANZFORMER" TAYLOR, Welterweight Contender:

"May 6-what can I say? Lucas Matthysse is strong and powerful but it's my time now. I'm here and I'm hungry, I've been working my whole life for this. I'm excited to fight in front of all the Mexican fans on Cinco de Mayo-expect fireworks on May 6."

JOSEPH "JOJO" DIAZ, JR., NABF Featherweight Champion:

"We had a ten week training camp, and trained very hard for this fight. We're both young, undefeated fighters and there is a lot at stake here for of us because we could both potentially be mandatory challengers. We're going to put on a great show for the millions watching and the thousands in attendance."

MANUEL "TINO" AVILA, IBA Featherweight Champion:

"I've been with Golden Boy my whole career, and without them-I wouldn't be at this stage right now. This is going to be an action-packed fight and someone's '0' has to go."

MARLEN ESPARZA, Super Flyweight Prospect:

"I'm really excited about this opportunity and experience, and I want to thank everyone for backing me and seeing the vision I see. I'm very proud to be on this card with so many other amazing fighters. On fight night, it's not about win or lose, its about how I win."

RYAN "KINGRY" GARCIA, Lightweight Prospect:

"I put a lot of dedication to this fight, I'm treating this like a world championship fight. I'm coming in explosive with my speed and power-and everyone will see me put on a tremendous show on Saturday night."

TYRONE LUCKEY, Lightweight Prospect:

"Come May 6th, I'm going to give Ryan Garcia the best fight of this life. A little physical education is always good and everyone will see us put on a great fight."

RAUL "EL CUGAR" CURIEL, Former Mexican Olympian:

"You will see me put on the best show in the ring, and I want to thank everybody involved who helped us put on a great night of boxing."

RONNY RIOS, Super Bantamweight Contender:

"This is my first fight on Cinco de Mayo weekend, so I want to thank my family, Golden Boy Promotions and my team-I wouldn't be here without them."

JOSEPH "DIAMANTE" AGUIRRE, Lightweight Prospect:

"I'm really excited, I come from Cancun, Mexico and I'm looking forward to this opportunity. This is my first time fighting in Vegas-I've always fought in Mexico, so this is a dream come true for me."

Canelo vs. Chavez, Jr. is a 12-round fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with TGB and sponsored by Tecate, BORN BOLD, O'Reilly Auto Parts, Adriana's Insurance and Interjet. Lemieux vs. Reyes is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Eye of the Tiger Management. Matthysse vs. Taylor is a 10-round fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Arano Boxing and Star Boxing. Diaz, Jr. vs. Avila is presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event will take place Saturday, May 6 at T-Mobile Arena and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Doors open at 2:00 p.m. and the first fight begins at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.

Just in: Anthony Joshua stops Wladimir Klitschko in Wembley

Anthony Joshua stopped Wladimir Klitschko in round 11 of their heavyweight clashed on Saturday night at the Wembley Stadium in London to the delight of more than 90,000 fans who showed up at the venue.

Joshua sent Klitschko down once in round 5 and twice in round 11 en route to his 11-round stoppage victory over former heavyweight king Wladimir Klitschko. In round 6, Klitschko sent down Joshua with his textbook 1-2 combination and wobbled Joshua a couple of times in rounds 7 and 8.

More details coming up...

Incredible fight. Great performance by @anthonyfjoshua. Can't wait for the #JoshuaKlitchsko rematch! Thanks @MatchroomBoxing & @EddieHearn! pic.twitter.com/aFJnWTKDQm

— Jack Patterson (@jackcpatterson) April 29, 2017

Scott Quigg wins a decision over Viorel Simion

Former world champion Scott Quigg (33-1-2, 24 KOs), under the tutelage of Freddie Roach, won a twelve round unanimous decision over Viorel Simion (21-2, 9 KOs) of their featherweight title at the undercard of Joshua vs Klitschko, Saturday night at the Wembley Stadium in London.

The official scores were 117-111, 117-111. 115-113.

It was a high-octane action from start to end as both men engage right away in a phone booth battle. Quigg got the better of it as he landed more telling blows. Both men cut and bruised during the course of 12-round back and forth action.

It was Quigg's hands raised when the smoke clears up during his hard-fought battle.

With the victory, Quigg is now in line for a potential title fight with Lee Selby.

Joshua vs Klitschko: Early boxing results at Wembley, London

Tonight Anthony Joshua faces Wladimir Klitschko in front of more than 90,000 fans, for the heavyweight title of the world at the Wembley Stadium, Wembley, London, United Kingdom.

Below was the results earlier tonight:

Joe Cordina beats Sergej Vib - in his second fight, Cordina of Cardiff, Wales defeated Vib contested at super featherweight limit at 130 lbs.

Katie Taylor TKO 7 Nina Meinke - Taylor remained undefeated in her five fights. He stopped Meinke in round 7 who suffered a cut over the eye. The bout was contested at the lightweight division a 2-minute 10-round women's boxing setup.

Luke Campbell defeats Darleys Perez - Campbell stopped Perez in round 9 of their lightweight bout. Perez was weighing over the lightweight limit and was not illegible to win the number one spot of the ranking.

Anthony Joshua: April 29 is just another stepping stone towards greatness

Is Anthony Joshua (18-0, 18 KOs) ready for Wladimir Klitschko (64-4, 53 KOs)?

"Any fight is the right fight. I’ve never shied away from any fight, any opponent. I started boxing in 2008; in 2009, ’10, ‘11 I was in the World Championships, and in 2012 I was representing Great Britain competing to be the best in the world in the Olympics. It doesn’t matter who I fight. I just enjoy what I do and I just embrace every opportunity," says Joshua during the final presscon on Thursday.

Joshua, 27, will face battle-tested former heavyweight king W. Klitschko on Saturday night at the Wembley Stadium, Wembley, London and can be seen live on Showtime (4:15 PM EST/1:15 PM PST) and on HBO (delayed telecast 11 PM EST). The expected crowd of over 90,000 trooped at the venue to witness who will take over the boxing pride. The young hungry lion or the returning former head of the pride?

“I don’t underestimate any opponent. Through my mistakes, I have learned and made myself right.”

Joshua showed confidence during the final presser on Thursday. He hasn't tasted defeat in pro-ranks, but he was sure that even a loss from Klitschko will not end his career.

"I don't think so, because it won’t be the end of my career."

With the above Joshua being said, I think he has the right mindset taking on Klitschko on Saturday night. He knows clearly that taking alone this fight is a big boost for his career. A competitive loss could only mean a rise in his stock and a possible rubber match. A flat-out KO loss could only mean... ah okay.. I told you, he's still young and inexperience. But I don't think it will be a walk in the park for the, accept it or not, aging Klitschko.

Size

If you look at them physically, both men have the same number. Per Boxrec.com, Klitschko and Joshua has the same height at 6 feet, 6 inches tall, and reach almost similar at 81 inches and 82 inches respectively.

So, I think, Joshua being the younger man would be stronger than Klitschko especially as the fight goes on to a distance, and it would really be competitive in the early rounds. Now, for me, it looks like it boils down to experience and the right game plan.

Experience

“Can you imagine my next opponent is going to fight a guy whose age is exactly the number of how long he has been in boxing – 27 years? Can you imagine that? It’s a pretty amazing task. Is it a degradation that I’m actually a challenger and underdog in this fight after 27 years in the sport? I don’t think so. I think it’s great," says Klitschko.

Well, without a doubt Klitschko got a huge edge in experience. He has seen it all dominating the division for decades. But of course at 41 years of age, how much Klitschko left in the tank? Does he still have what it takes to pull the trigger? Based on his previous fight against Fury it showed as a hint.

If Klitschko fights the way he fought Fury last time, I think he will lose. He should let his right hand go more often because the younger Joshua may have more of that sort in the ring.

Although Joshua may just have 18 fights on his sleeves and none of them push him to the limit because those opponents were not able to match him physically.

But let me tell you one thing. I can not see so much of Klitschko's tricks. His edge most of his fight is his size, jab, and power on his right hand.

Prediction

With Joshua on the other side of the ring, it is safe to remove that size advantage. Wlad got power on his right hand but at times, he's so gun-shy to fire more of them. So it's really a good competitive fight as long as the older got his tank till the later rounds.

I'm inclined to give Joshua a unanimous win. That's when Klitschko employed his hit-hug combination on Saturday night. But if both men provided more punching room, this fight is over after 6 rounds.

Watch: Ronnie Baldonado's first round KO of China's Yi Ming Ma

Watch above video of Ronnie Baldonado's first round knockout win over China's Yi Ming Ma during their flyweight 10 rounder bout at the National Olympic Sports Center Gym, in Beijing, China.

From the get-go Baldonado (9-1-, 6KOs) keep on pouring rain of punches on Ma (13-7, 7KOs), who's on the back foot.

Baldonado wobbled Ma with a left hook and then followed by a short right from the inside that sent Ma down. Ma, obviously hurt, was able to get up and continued the fight.

Baldonado rushes in to finish Ma as soon as referee Mekin Sumon signals to resume the fight. He bombarded Ma with heavy shots while Ma's back on the ropes. Ma tried to counter those shots, but was clearly overpowered.

Baldonado landed power shots to the head that opted the corner of Ma to stop the fight. Referee Mekin Sumon then stepped in to save Ma from further beating. Official time of the stoppage: 1:42 mark in very first round.

Video: Mannypacquiao Stable Facebook Page.

Shawn Porter stops Andre Berto, rematch with Thurman could be next

Shawn Porter bulldozed Andre Berto on Saturday night at the Barclays Center, Brooklyn in New York.

Porter (27-2-1, 17KOs) scored a total of two knockdowns, one in Round 2 and another in Round 9. The referee stopped the contest at 1:31 mark in Round 9 after Berto (31-5, 24 KO) got up from the second knockdown resulting in a technical knockout in favor of Porter.

Porter, 29, displayed amazing energy throughout nine rounds. He was relentless with his attacks leaving no space for Berto, 33, to recalibrate his defense. In Round 2, Porter sent Berto to the floor with a right hand after absorbing a two-punch combo from Berto.

In the succeeding four rounds, it was all Porter's aggression keeping Berto to clinch more frequently.

Although the fight is not necessarily foul-filled but have plenty of accidental headbutts leaving both fighters cut and bloodied.

“My intention is never to use my head as a weapon. This was just a very hard-fought battle by both of us, and I’m blessed to get the victory," said Porter after the fight.

It was a busy night for the ringside doctor as he was asked by the referee to check Berto's cut twice.

Berto had his moment in Round 7, where he scored counter shots as Porter tried to rushed in.

In round 8, I don't know what is there hiding inside Berto's body because Porter kept on digging in there from the beginning minute.

In Round 9, the body shots from Porter a toll on Berto who now looks battered and defeated. Porter continued his aggression and if not because of the ropes, his ass would be on the floor. The referee rightfully counted as a knockdown and started yelling the mandatory count. After the referee signaled to resume the fight, Porter again hurt Berto with a hook. The referee stepped in to stop the fight.

With the win, Porter earned another shot at his recent conqueror --- Keith Thurman --- for another title fight.

Keith Thurman told Porter in the ring after the win over Berto that they could fight next.

"We just need to sit down and talk about it. He's hungry. You see the way he fights. It could be a great fight again."

Lundy goes back home to face Lara, June 2 At 2300 Arena in Philly

Lundy goes back home to face Lara, June 2 At 2300 Arena in Philly[/caption]

Philadelphia, PA—Hammerin’ Hank Lundy is coming home and he cannot wait.
The 33-year-old world-class lightweight makes his first start in Philadelphia in nearly eight years when he takes on Ricardo Lara, of Jalisco, Mexico, in the eight-round main event Friday evening, June 2, at the 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia.

This will be Lundy’s first fight at the 2300 Arena, located in his backyard, and only his seventh hometown appearance since he turned professional 11 years ago.

Since leaving Philly to fight after 2009, Lundy has appeared in rings in Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Tennessee, Indiana, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Ohio, New York and California as well as Canada and the Ukraine.

A former North American Boxing Federation (NABF) and North American Boxing Organization (NABO) lightweight champion, Lundy boxed just twice in 2016. He challenged Terrance Crawford, of Omaha, NE, for the World Boxing Organization (WBO) world junior lightweight title, but was stopped after five exciting rounds in Madison Square Garden. He bounced back late in the year in Cincinnati, OH, to earn a 12-round decision over John Delperdang, of Escondido, CA, to raise his pro record 27-6-1, 13 K0s.

Lundy has beaten David Diaz, of Chicago, IL; Patrick Lopez, of Venezuela, and Tyrese Hendrix, of Gainesville, FL. His setbacks have come against the best at 135 and 140 pounds—John Molina, of Covina, CA; Viktor Postol, of the Ukraine; Mauricio Herrera, of Riverside, CA; Raymond Beltran, of Phoenix, AZ; Thomas Dulorme, of Catalina, Puerto Rico—but Lundy vows to get his career back on track to another world-title opportunity.

“It’s a good feeling (fighting at home),” Lundy said. “At the end of the day, I have to train a little bit harder than I generally trained before coming home fighting in front of some of my fans and family.
“It sort of is added pressure, but I’m a vet in the game now and I know how to deal with that pressure. Also, you have to train a little harder because one thing people don’t know, when you fight in front of your hometown there’s a little more you have to put out. Actually, my camp started a little early just to deal with that problem.”

Lara, 25, will be making his first start outside of his native Mexico, where he compiled a 15-3 record, 7 K0s.

Some of the area’s top prospects will make up the undercard, including junior middleweight Isaiah Wise, welterweight Marcel Rivers, junior welterweight Scott Kelleher, lightweight Victor Padilla and featherweight Crystian Peguero.

Ivan "Striker" Delgado, Charles Huerta share thoughts ahead of LA Fight Club April 14

LOS ANGELES (April 12, 2017) - Ivan "Striker" Delgado (11-0-1, 4 KOs) will be turning up the notch in the level of competition he faces when he steps inside the ring against the rugged Charles Huerta (18-5, 11 KOs) on Friday, April 14 as the main event on LA FIGHT CLUB. The eight round super featherweight match-up which will determine fates of both hungry fighters will be televised live from the Belasco Theater on Estrella TV's Boxeo Estelar telecast beginning at 10 p.m. ET/ 7 p.m. PT.

Newly added Boxeo Estelar co-main event, LA local Jonathan "Thunder" Navarro (8-0, 5 KOs) will be taking on Chula Vista'sJoan Valenzuela (4-7-1, 4 KOs) in a six round welterweight bout. Making his debut under the Golden Boy banner, Manny "Chato" Robles, Jr. (11-0, 4 KOs) will be opening up the telecast against Durango, Mex.'s Antonio "Chore" Martinez (6-8, 5 KOs) in a six round featherweight fight.

A part of the live streamed portion of the night and LA FIGHT CLUB regular, Pablo "The Shark" Rubio, Jr. (8-0, 3 KOs) will partake in a six round super bantamweight fight against Mexico City's Angel "Maikol" Aguilar (8-11, 1 KO). Opening the night, rising prospect Edgar "Kid Neza" Valerio (9-0, 5 KOs) will be up against Juarez, Mex.'s Francisco "Panchito" Dominguez (8-11, 2 KOs) in a six round featherweight fight.

Delgado, Huerta, Navarro and Robles, Jr. are training hard for their upcoming bouts, here's what they had to say about their upcoming show this Friday, April 14:

IVAN "STRIKER" DELGADO, Super Featherweight Prospect:

Ivan "Striker" Delgado training for his fight on April 14

"This fight means stepping up to the next level. Huerta's experienced - he's conditioned and hungry for the opportunity to step back into the big leagues. It'll be a great match stylistically since Huerta moves forward aggressively, and I'm not scared to step up to exchange punches while being smart about it. I love being a Golden Boy fighter - the support they have given me, what they have done to build my career since I signed and giving me fights that I need, for example stepping up my competition to face someone like Charles Huerta, make me feel so blessed.

"I'll be in the ring wearing black and red trunks because those are the colors I got my first knockout victory in. My walkout song will be a song by Vicente Fernandez called, "No Me Se Rajar." The song motivates me, and the lyrics talk about being strong and not being able to be taken down when life tries to knock you down. I usually listen to music from Gerardo Ortiz and Banda MS, or hip-hop/rap artists like Kendrick Lamar and Kanye.
Ivan "Striker" Delgado training for match against Charles Huerta
"I've been boxing since I was five years old. My first amateur fight was at the Hollenbeck Youth Center when at eight years old, and I remember after winning seeing myself as a professional boxer. I was okay in school, I was really good at math, but I was better at boxing. With all my experience, five years from now I hope that I can at least become a mandatory challenger for a title, and with the support with my team, family, and Golden Boy, I know I can accomplish that."

CHARLES HUERTA, Super Featherweight Prospect:

Charles Huerta in the ring as he trains for his upcoming bout on April 14
"This fight gets me to where I once was - back into the boxing scene and fighting with top guys. I know that I'll have to watch out for his tough left hook, but I believe that with my experience I'll overwhelm him. I've fought more experienced fighters, fought more rounds, and that'll make a difference in the ring.

"I'll be walking out to "Andamos
Huerta training for his fight against Ivan Delgado
En El Ruedo," by Ulices Chaidez. My last fight was a tough eight rounds, and the song talks about coming back stronger, like how I am going to do with this fight. I've been fighting since I could remember, since my dad was a trainer I was always at the gym. In all honesty, I can't even remember if I choose this life or if it choose me.

"I take inspiration from some of the greats - whether that's Miguel Cotto, Canelo, and some of the other world champions. I see myself climbing back to the top and becoming a world champion. I've known I would be a champion since my first knockout victory as an amateur."

JONATHAN "THUNDER" NAVARRO, Welterweight Prospect:

Jonathan "Thunder" Navarro training for his co-main bout on April 14
"This fight helps me improve, and test out what I have been working on in the gym. I know I'm going to get the win - it's just a matter of timing and where my head is come fight night. I've been working a lot on my jab, footwork, head movement, and just being able to go under and work the body with my punches.

"Growing up, I wanted to be the typical - like a cop or a firefighter. When I turned 15, and started winning medals in the amateurs, I became anxious to finally become a professional. Fighting in LA is a dream, and I prefer fighting here than in any other place because my family and roots are here.

Jonathan Navarro training inside the ring

"One of my favorite all-time boxers is Mike Tyson. He just didn't care about what anyone had to say about him - like he literally bit someone's ear off and he did not care."

MANNY ROBLES, JR., Featherweight Prospect:

Manny Robles, Jr. trains with father Manny Robles, Sr. ahead of Golden Boy Promotions Debut
"This is my first fight with Golden Boy, and I couldn't be more grateful. I know my opponent is a veteran in the sport, but he's going to make me look good when I win. I'm going to have to be smart and aggressive, and the knock out will come out in the process. Once I see that he's hurt I'll go for the kill. My corner is really strong - my dad Manny Robles, Sr. is my trainer and we make such a strong team. This is a family affair, and I wouldn't be where I am with out them.

"Since I was four, my dad and uncle, Edgar Jasso, were fighting. My dad was always taking me to the gym, and I loved it. I remember my first amateur fight was at the Azteca gym at eight years old, and I received the "outstanding boxer" medal for my knockout victory.

Manny Robles, Jr. training for his fight on April 14

"Jorge Linares is one of my favorite fighters at the moment. He's such a complete fighter - he has the speed, agility and performance. I even got the huge opportunity to spar with him for three weeks while he trained in Las Vegas for his past fight in March. I feel like if opportunities like that keep coming, within these next five years I can be a world champion."

Delgado vs. Huerta is an eight-round super featherweight bout presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by "Tecate, BORN BOLD," Casa Mexico Tequila, and Adriana's Insurance. The Boxeo Estelar broadcast will air live on Estrella TV at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT. The card will also stream live on EstrellaTV.com and on YouTube via LBI Media, Inc.'s Fenomeno Studios. The entire card will be streamed live on www.fite.tv beginning at approximately 5:30 p.m. PT. Mark your calendars and buy your tickets for the upcoming shows on June 2, and July 14.

Beibut Shumenov faces Yunier Dorticos April 29

LAS VEGAS (April 7, 2017) - Cruiserweight world champion Beibut Shumenov (17-2, 11 KOs) will meet interim cruiserweight champion Yunier Dorticos (21-0, 20 KOs) in the main event and WBA Interim Featherweight Champion Carlos Zambrano (26-0, 11 KOs) defends his title against once-beaten contender Claudio Marrero (21-1, 15 KOs) in a special Saturday night edition of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes, April 29 from Sam's Town Live in Las Vegas.

Televised coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT as Shumenov and Dorticos will meet to unify their WBA titles in a long-awaited showdown between the former light heavyweight champion, Shumenov, and the unbeaten knockout artist, Dorticos.

"I've been in the gym working hard since my last fight,'' said Shumenov. "I have been ready this entire time to defend my belt against anyone who is willing to step up. Denis Lebedev wanted to fight anyone but me and Dorticos disappeared after I signed the bout agreement to fight him February 11th in Miami. I am glad that, after many fight date changes, the fight is finally here on April 29. "

"I have been waiting a long time to reach this level and I'm very excited for this opportunity," said Dorticos. "I want to thank my team at Caribe Promotions and Warriors Boxing for making this happen. I can't wait for the whole world to see me in action. I've had a great training camp and my whole team has been working very hard. Shumenov is a great champion and I thank him for stepping in the ring with me. I can't wait for that bell to ring so I can start fighting."

"Training to defend my title has been intense," said Zambrano. "We have a great team who put together a plan for me and I am giving everything I have to them. I have to get in the ring and show what I am capable of. There is only one result of this fight, I am going to win. Whether it's by knockout or points, I will leave the ring a champion."

"I think the fans have been wanting to see this fight for a while, and I am prepared to give the fans an exciting fight," said Marrero. "I am focused and ready. I've been training hard with my team and I only see this fight going one way, and that's me leaving with the win."

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, are priced at $75, $50 and $25, and are on sale Monday, April 10 at 12 p.m. PT. Tickets are available online at www.samstownlv.com/entertain.

"We can't wait to bring another thrilling night of fights to the great fans in Las Vegas at Sam's Town Live," said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. "This main event is going to be a scintillating cruiserweight title fight on FS1 and FOX Deportes and we are also looking forward to Carlos Zambrano making his Mayweather Promotions debut against a very tough challenger in Claudio Marrero. There will be an action packed undercard featuring a slew of Mayweather Promotions fighters, so you will want to get there early to enjoy the whole show!"

"This is a true boxing fans show," said Tom Brown of TGB Promotions. "Beibut Shumenov and Yunier Dorticos are two of the best cruiserweights in the sport and they're stepping into the ring to prove it. Carlos Zambrano and Claudio Marrero have been circling each other for a while now, which has heightened the anticipation of their finally meeting in the ring. The intensity in both matches means excitement for the fans.''

A native of Shymkent, Kazakhstan and fighting out of Las Vegas, Shumenov looks to build on a strong start to his campaign at cruiserweight after picking up a title against B.J. Flores in July 2015 and defending the belt with a TKO victory over Junior Wright last year. The 2004 Olympian for Kazakhstan won a world title at light heavyweight by defeating Gabriel Campillo in Las Vegas in 2010.

Fighting out of Miami by way of Havana, Cuba, Dorticos is unbeaten since turning pro in 2009 after a decorated amateur career. Dorticos won a regional cruiserweight title over previously unbeaten Hamilton Ventura in 2014 and continued his ascent to a world title with victories over Edison Miranda, Galen Brown and Fulgencio Zuniga. He won his interim title with a stoppage victory over Youri Kalenga in one of the most exciting fights of 2016.

An unbeaten fighter from Lima, Peru, Zambrano turned pro in 2008 and fought nine of his first 12 bouts in the U.S. He won a South American regional title in 2012 and began moving up the featherweight rankings with a knockout victory over Devis Perez in 2014. He picked up his interim title with a unanimous decision victory over Daniel Ramirez in 2015 and defended the belt successfully against Jose Sanmartin later that year.

A former title challenger who lost a narrow decision to Jesus Cuellar in 2013, Marrero has won seven-straight bouts since then. Most recently, the 28-year-old knocked down Luis Hinojosa four times before stopping him in the fourth round in August 2016. A native of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Marrero was an accomplished amateur who will be fighting in Las Vegas for the second time in his pro career.

Pacquiao set to fight Horn in Australia

Forget about Manny Pacquiao taking on Amir Khan in Dubai. It's all crap. It's Pacquiao vs Horn set this summer in Australia according to Pacquiao's adviser Michael Koncz.

"We signed the Jeff Horn contract this morning. Fight is July 2 in Brisbane, Australia," Pacquiao's adviser Michael Koncz.

What the heck. I never learn my lesson. I'm still as gullible the first time I heard about this crazy "promoter" based in Dubai making noise to promote one of Manny Pacquiao fights. I was sold again with the idea.

The Pacquiao-Horn was first brought up in January, but then a potential Pacquaio-Khan match-up surface somewhere, which I thought would finally happen. But when both Pacquiao and Khan sort this "promoter" and start asking where's the money? It turned out hollow.

Well, I forget about it and shifted my attention to the Pacquiao-Horn fight. The first question that pop-up to my mind is, who the hell is Jeff Horn? Google... google,  and I stumbled upon a profile feature of Jeff "The Hornet" Horn written by Ryan Songalia.

So, what do you think of this fight? Does it really make sense?

Linares vs Crolla rematch preview and prediction

Is it revenge or repeat? Can Crolla get the win this time to even the score? Or can Linares prove again supremacy at the lightweight division?

Jorge Linares (41-3-0, 27KOs) will hit the road again to defend his lightweight title against Anthony Crolla (31-5-3, 13KOs) in a rematch on Saturday night at the challenger's home turf at the Manchester Arena (formerly M.E.N Arena), in Manchester, UK.

Well, it's somehow easy to write a preview about this fight because we do have a reference point. Re-watching the first fight that happened on 24th September last year is the best, to begin with. So I re-watch the first match on Youtube.

Linares vs Crolla I

Based on the previous outing it is safe to say that Linares has the edge over Crolla with regards to overall boxing skills and techniques. But of course, boxing can not be won in the ring over those advantages alone. A lot of things are there to consider. In the first bout, Linares was the one who makes use of the entire ring with his footwork.

In the first bout, Linares was the one who made use of the entire ring with his footwork. He was able to maintain the necessary distance he needed to threw in combinations making it difficult for Crolla to mount counters.

In the first six rounds, Linares was able to rack up points and even hurt Crolla at the end of Round 6. But Crolla, as the fight went on to the second half was able to make every round closer, landing significant punches that take a toll on Linares. Crolla's body works made a telling effect as Linares started to show fatigue. It was Linares' first time to go full 12 rounds. Well, Linares was able to pass the test and went home with a unanimous decision victory.

Power, Stamina, and Durability

Although it is obvious that Linares has the edge with regards to overall boxing skills, let us see other factors to consider. If we look at the ledger of each fighter, it looks like Linares has the upper hand with regard to power. He had 27 KO's in 41 fights, whereas Crolla had only 13 in 31 fights. That's a 66% KO rate for Linares to only 33% on Crolla per Boxrec. But it is exciting to see because, although Linares had more power on his hands, he tends to lose steam in the later rounds.

Crolla, on the other end, seemed to be more durable and has more gas in the tank. He took Linares' best shots. Well, except in Round 6 where he wobbled.

Adjustments and keys to victory

Since this is a rematch, It boils down to adjustments to make the difference in the second fight. It will depend on how each fighter learned the first bout and make the necessary adjustment tonight. If I will see Round 13 instead of Round 1 in the rematch, I think, we will see the same ending. But if we see a different fight tonight due to drastic adjustment on both fighters, well that remains to be seen.

In my opinion, if Linares will show up with the same movement and improved on his stamina he'll get the repeat of what happened in November. But without that extra mileage put on Linares' gas tank, a more aggressive Corolla (with more jab and head movement moving forward) might even the score and see you again in the ring for the third time.

Prediction

Well, my prediction is that I saw Linares this time being prepared to go full 12 rounds, so he has more oxygen in the tank and will execute the same game plan -- Linares UD 12.

Golden Boy Promotions signs Pinoy boxer Romero Duno

LOS ANGELES (March 22, 2017) - Golden Boy Promotions today announced that it has signed WBC Youth Intercontinental Lightweight Champion and knockout artist Romero Duno (13-1, 12 KOs) to a multi-year promotional contract. Duno, of General Santos City, Philippines, was last seen in the ring at the March 10 edition of LA FIGHT CLUB where he scored a second-round knockout of Christian "Chimpa" Gonzalez (16-1, 14 KOs) to claim the WBC Youth Intercontinental Lightweight title in his U.S. debut before a sold-out crowd at the Belasco Theater and televised live on Estrella TV's Boxeo Estelar.

"I am very thankful to Golden Boy Promotions for giving me a chance to showcase my talent on the big stage," said Duno. "I also want to thank my team Sanman Boxing for believing in me. I still can't believe that this is happening to me, God is good."

"We saw Romero's power in the ring-he is the real deal," said Golden Boy Promotions Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya. "He has exceptional power, along with the talent and desire to be a great fighter. He could be the next big boxing star from the Philippines as time is on his side, and I'm pleased he chose Golden Boy to introduce him to a wider audience in the U.S."

At just the age of 21, Duno has accumulated an impressive record that represents his speed and skill as a knockout artist with three of his last four wins coming by way of stoppage. Having turned pro in July 2014, Duno has fought only twice outside in the native Philippines: Russia in May 2016 where he experienced his first career loss, and March 2017 at the Belasco Theater in Los Angeles. Duno received a hero's welcome when he returned home to the Philippines from Los Angeles on March 22, with hundreds greeting and cheering him at the airport.

Golovkin wins UD over Jacobs, ends KO win streak

No knockout win this time for Triple G. Gennady Golovkin's 23 KO winning streak ended Saturday night after the final bell sounded at the Madison Square Garden, in New York.

Golovkin (37-0, 33 KOs) just managed to escape with a unanimous decision victory over Daniel Jacobs (32-2, 29 KOs) of their middleweight matchup. The scores were: 114-113, 115-112, 115-112.

Well, those who knew pretty well the reputation of Golovkin were expecting another knockout ending. But, well, of course, everyone was at the edge of their seat when the Kazak knockout artist dropped Jacobs early in the fourth round. But then only to watch the entire 12 rounds. And again, as usual, most Sunday morning here in Kuwait, I'm late for work. Anyway, who cares.

Although the fight was worthwhile to watch from start to end, I feel like there's a lacking because you know, I'm expecting a KO. Jacobs was really disciplined and a calm fighter that night. He was mentally tough and not even showed signs of panic after the fourth-round knockdown. I hate to say this, but maybe the size disparity gave him also that confidence that he can take the best shot of Golovkin. And in fairness, he did take a solid shot from Golovkin pretty well.

It showed also that Golovkin's offense can be neutralized by a well-executed game plan. And Golovkin is just right there in front of you, for an opponent to hit. You can ask Kell Brook.

Well, the last two outings of Golovkin exposed a few of his flaws. For sure, the camp of middleweight (not really a middleweight, but fighting above middleweight) Saul Canelo Alvarez noted these flaws down. Gennady said he will be like an animal when he faces Canelo.

Of course, I want that fight," Golovkin said. "I am like an animal for that fight, but I will give Danny Jacobs a chance for a rematch."

Undercard

In the undercard, Roman Gonzalez was upset by his Thai opponent Wisaksil Wangek. The challenger dethroned the pound-for-pound king to the tune of 114-112, 114-112, and 113-113. Gonzalez went down once in the opening salvo and was plagued with cuts due to accidental headbutts. Gonzalez was a bloody mess most of the fight as the blood was oozing from a cut above the eye and hairline.

Carlos Cuadras also won a slim unanimous decision over David Carmona. What do you think of a Gonzalez-Cuadras rematch? Are you interested? Or a Gonzalez-Wangek rematch?

Watch: Romero Duno vs Christian Gonzalez full fight

Pinoy boxer Romero Duno (13-1, 12 KOs) of Jim Claude Manangquil's Sanman promotions upsets lightweight prospect Christian Gonzalez (16-1, 14 KOs) on Friday night at the Belasco Theater in Los Angeles, California. It was Romero's debut fight in the United states. The lightweight fight was scheduled for eight rounds. Duno knocked down Gonzalez in the first round and ultimately knocked his guy out in the second round for the stunning upset.

Romero Duno knocks out Christian Gonzalez

LOS ANGELES (March 10, 2017) - Romero Duno (13-1, 12 KOs) knocks out Christian "Chimpa" Gonzalez (16-1, 14 KOs) in second round upset victory for the WBC Youth Intercontinental Lightweight title in front of a sold-out crowd at Belasco Theater live on Estrella TV's national Boxeo Estelar broadcast.

"In terms of the knockout, I was just listening to my coach and kept boxing," said Romero. "I fought hard and disciplined myself to not take any lucky punches. I based my strategy on seeing what my opponent was doing and adjusted whenever I needed to."

Celebrities in attendance to watch the fight included Former Junior Middleweight Champion and Current Trainer Fernando Vargas, Metta World Peace and Golden Boy Promotions' stablemates Ronny Rios, Ivan "Striker" Delgado, Ryan "Kingry" Garcia, Edgar Valerio, Oscar "Jaguar" Negrete, David "Junebug" Mijares and Charles Huerta.

With the cheers of all his fans in attendance, Santa Ana, CA's Alexis Rocha (7-0, 5 KOs) entered the ring with full steam dropping Marcus Beckford (3-5-4, 1 KO) of Long Island, NY in mere seconds of the first round. At round two, Rocha crushed Beckford with a punishing body shot causing the Long Island native to take a knee. As the bout carried on, Rocha continuously demonstrated his power-causing Beckford's corner to end the fight at the beginning of the fifth round.

Opening up Estrella TV's Boxeo Estelar broadcast, East Los Angeles' Angel Bojado (1-1) faced powerful Bogota, Colombia fighter Jhon Leon (2-0, 1 KO) for a four-round middleweight bout. While both fighters exchanged a series of blocks and punches, it was Leon who came out on top winning by unanimous decision victory with all three judges scoring the fight at 39-37.

"I think I fought very intelligently," said Jhon Leon. "I roughed him up a bit here and there but stuck to my style of boxing and I'm happy to come out with the victory."

Hailing from Miami, FL, entertaining fighter Niko "Baby Face" Valdes (4-0, 4 KOs) added another knockout victory to his record when he took down Alejandro Osuna (4-3, 2 KOs) of Mazatlan, Mexico at 2:16 in the fourth round of this super middleweight match. Throughout the rounds, Valdes utilized his signature counterpunching style to effectively land crushing body shots to Osuna during the slugfest.

"My opponent was a very tough fighter," said Niko Valdes. "I was throwing a lot of hard punches, but the coach told me to start going to the body and that seemed to work moving forward in the fight."

Los Angeles local Marvin Cabrera (3-0, 3 KOs) came in the ring with a vengeance causing opponent Saadallah Al-Tameemi (2-0-2, 2 KOs) to stumble back on the ropes in the first round of this scheduled six-round middleweight fight. With no signs of slowing down, Cabrera continued to wreck Al-Tameemi-ultimately resulting in the judges stopping the fight in the third round at the 2:35 mark.

"I think I performed well for tonight's fight, focused on my combinations, and was happy to come out with the knockout victory," said Marvin Cabrera.

Kicking off this edition of LA FIGHT CLUB and the RingTV live stream of the night, Las Vegas' own Francisco "Alarcon" Esparza (6-0, 2 KOs) scored the first victory of the night with a unanimous decision victory with scores of 60-54, 60-54 and 59-55 over Los Angeles' Emmanuel Castro (2-4, 2 KOs) in this six-round featherweight bout. While the fight went the distance, both fighters gave the fans an all-out brawl with their relentless blocks, jabs, and combination punches.

"My opponent put a lot of pressure, it was a tough fight, but today I feel I grew as a boxer," said Francisco Esparza. "I did a lot of things in the ring I can learn from."

Watch: Thurman vs Garcia Highlights

Keith Thurman went home as the unified titlist Saturday night. He won via split decision against Danny Garcia at the Barclays Center, in Brooklyn, New York, USA  after a 12-round welterweight fight aired on CBS.

Video Credit: Premiere Boxing Champions

Watch: Keith Thurman vs Danny Garcia weigh-in live streaming

Here's TBD #ThurmanGarcia preview: http://theboxingdiary.com/2017/03/keith-thurman-vs-danny-garcia-this-is-what-boxing-is-all-about.html

Watch: #ThurmanGarcia Final Press Conference: http://theboxingdiary.com/2017/03/watch-thurman-garcia-final-press-conference.html

Keith Thurman vs Danny Garcia: This is what boxing is all about

Wow! Two proud boxing champions. Two undefeated fighters lock horns at their prime. This is what boxing is all about. The best fighting the best!

Undefeated Danny Garcia (33-0, 19 KOs) faces another undefeated in Keith Thurman (27-0, 22 KOs) on Saturday night at the Barclays Center, in Brooklyn, New York for the 12-round welterweight title unification.

In this too commercialized boxing world, seldom come a time we will be able to watch what really boxing is all about. We find promoters, handlers, managers marinating a match-up for so long. Thurman-Garcia needs no marinating, it has the spice it needs.

Garcia and Thurman both age 28 and are in the prime of their career agreed to share inside a boxing ring. Although both men may not be sitting at the top of the welterweight apex, for sure they’re among the upper top 5 in the heavily infested with talent division. The top dogs are still there on the top, the likes of Manny Pacquiao and Tim Bradley. The winner of this match will certainly challenge the alpha lion.

Thurman-Garcia is a kind of boxing match that a fan should not be missed. This is the kind of matchup that you want to watch along with your football crazy buddy to make him convert to boxing. I don’t see any reason at all that it will not live to expectation. The fighters were too proud to be booed. They don’t like each other leading to the build-up of this fight. A lot has been said and Saturday night these guys will be out there throwing bombs.

“These are the type of fights that are going to bring boxing back to where it used to be,” Sugar Ray Leonard said. “It’s going to require these types of fights, these types of individuals, these types of athletes, these types of potential superstars, to really change and make boxing what it used to be.

“These two young men, these two champions, these undefeated fighters, they fit the mold. I talk to people all of the time about what fights they want to see and this is a fight that has star-quality to it.”

Although both men may over-analyze in the ring and may tend to counter-punch each other, but, believe me, man, once these fighters meet at the center unleash punch combinations as counters in anticipation to each other’s move… it is a beauty to watch. Who landed first on each other’s switch-off button wins.

I’m salivating in anticipation of the Thurman-Garcia fight while watching Thurman-Porter replay. I would love to see Thurman’s angles and lateral movements. He tends to sidestep to an angle before firing wherein an opponent is incapable to counter. On the other hand, Garcia loves to face an opponent straight up with his lethal overhand counter left hand. The overhand counter left hand is Garcia’s money punch that put down the likes of Amir Khan and Erik Morales.

On Saturday, the best out of these men is yet to seen as somebody’s “O” has got to go.

Boxing Records per Boxrec.

Pacquiao set to fight Khan in May

Contrary to earlier report that Pacquiao-Khan will be held in April 2017, Michael Koncz told Yahoo Sports that it is decided to move it to May 19 to have time to promote the fight properly. The decision was made after a two-hour meeting with promoter Bob Arum on Tuesday.

“We decided to move it to May 19 here and May 20 in the United Emirates so we’d have time to promote it properly and make it a huge success. I have to talk to both fighters to get them to approve going in May instead of in April. I don’t think that will be any problem," says Koncz.

I really have a gut feeling that the fight will not push through in April as there's not enough time to promote and prepare the fight.

Well, after waiting for years for this fight to happen in the Middle East finally it will be here. This is what exactly the OFW's, especially in the GCC area, happen. They wanted to see their kabayan and idol Manny Pacquiao fight against an equally prominent opponent in Amir Khan in the GCC.

Although it has to be known yet where exactly in the United Arab Emirates the fight will be held. Most likely, it could be in Dubai. In the past, most of the boxing matches were held there. Two of the popular Pinoy Pride series were successfully held in Dubai before.

If you are going to look at it, Pacquiao-Khan would really do well on PPV compared to earlier reported opponent Jeff Horn of Australia.

"This is what we are waiting for, to see Pacquiao fight in UAE. We are very excited! Hopefully, it will push through," says Alan, 38, OFW in Dubai.

Watch: Thurman vs Garcia final press conference

Video credit: Fight Hub TV.

Area fighters support Philly boxing March 10 at the 2300 arena

Philadelphia, PA—The boxing reputation in the City of Brotherly Love was built on being brought up the hard way, whether against a neighborhood rival or a tough guy from out of town.  It was the attitude of being ready to fight anyone, anywhere and at any time.

Philly Fight Night returns Friday, March 10, at the 2300 Arena, and it appears that all 22 fighters in the 11 scheduled fights carry that tradition with them. They believe in themselves and are ready to prove it.

Even though fighters from the same city have grown to dislike each other, often fighting for bragging rights, there still appears to plenty of love, support and respect to go around.

Let’s look at what some of the locals say about their neighbors who are fighting March 10:

Junior lightweight Tevin Farmer on Anthony Burgin:

"Ant is ready. I think he's more ready than ever. I haven't seen him this focused in a long time. It's crazy because I'm the one who usually pushes all the guys. But lately it seems as Ant has been pushing me. The best Ant has yet to come; March 10 he will open a lot of eyes back up. I will be flying back in to Philly from Puerto Rico to see my li’l brother go to work!"  (Burgin meets local rival Avery Sparrow in the eight-round lightweight main event).

Lightweight Damon Allen on Avery Sparrow:

“Avery has been my boy since the amateurs and we have a mutual respect for one another. He's looking sharp from what I’ve seen and I think he's going to show it in this fight.”

Super middleweight Jesse Hart on Fred Jenkins Jr.:

"​Fred Jr. is working very hard in the gym.  He wants bigger fights and knows this is just one step towards getting them."  (Jenkins boxes Roque Zapata, of Culpeper, VA, in a six-round junior middleweight contest).

Junior middleweight Julian Williams on Isaiah Wise:

"He's a super nice guy extremely hard worker there's never a time when I'm in the gym and he's not there working. He kinda reminds me of Gabe Rosado when he was coming up not his fighting style but his blue collar hardworking mentality.”  (Wise boxes Jeffrey Wrightof Milwaukee, WI in a six-round junior middleweight fight).

Flyweight Miguel Cartagena on Crystian Peguero:

"I would say he is a young hungry kid with not much experience but is willing to learn daily and has the heart of a lion.  He is always in the gym and always watches out for his trainer or my reaction to anything he does. He was born in the struggles but in his mind he has it all, which makes him more fascinating to watch become a better fighter each day."  (Peguero boxes Alonzo Davis in a four-round super bantamweight fight).​

Super middleweight Christopher Brooker on Ernesto 'Pete' Almodovar:

"I would say he is just like me no amateur experience but has the will and the skill of a true fighter. I've seen him spar top level guys and look just as good even better on some occasions. I think his first fight he will make a statement."  (Almodovar boxes Steven Lopez, of Northeast Philadelphia, in a four-round super flyweight fight).

Hart on Marcel Rivers:

"Marcel is running and always working, going the extra mile. He works for PGW and comes right to gym after work and grinds like he doesn’t have a day job.  His work ethic is phenomenal.  What people don't know is that he came down from like 190 pounds.  He's for real!  When I saw how he works, it showed me he was for real." (Rivers boxes Brandon Bey, of New York, in a four-round welterweight fight.)

Junior lightweight Jason Sosa on Victor Padilla:

"It's an honor for me to watch a young man like Victor Padilla grow. I have a special love for that young man because we have similarity we come from nothing. I'm excited to see the future of Victor Padilla, it's a bright one."  (Padilla boxes Carlos Castillo, of Lindsay, CA, in a four-round lightweight fight).

Ex-welterweight Ronald Cruz on Joseph Adorno:

"I remember the Adornos coming into the Bethlehem Boxing Club where I first began training with his brother, Jeremy Adorno, and his father, Anibal. He was a little kid, around 8 years old, and he already had around 80 fights in Puerto Rico. His father was an outstanding amateur who beat Miguel Cotto in the amateurs, but then retired from fighting after an injury and became a great trainer. Joseph has "next Puerto Rican star" written all over him. A future world champion if he can keep himself focused and man that kid has a vicious left hook!"