Boxing News Thread
- Thread starter heyzel
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Shane made the fight harder than it needed to be. All Shane really had to do was go to the body which he hardly did. When he did, Mayorga was a sitting duck, but then he seemed to let Mayorga off the hook. When he fought Cotto he did the same thing but for a different reason. He respected Cotto's power so he decided not to get careless, but with Mayorga, he didn't want to get hit with a wild punch and get knocked out on a fluke. Another problem is since Shane is always the smaller fighter since he's moved up, he feels he has to prove he can brawl with the bigger boys, and in my humble opinion, if he used his superior boxing skills and outboxed them, it would never be close. Shane has never had a good jab so Mayoga was able to make it a fight. De La Hoya and Trinidad had an easier time with Mayorga becasue of the jab.
One last thing, it didn't look like he prepared for Mayorga all that well, as he was looking pretty winded and tired at times in the fight. Those are signs he was overlooking Mayorga which is probably another reason the fight was much harder for him.
One last thing, it didn't look like he prepared for Mayorga all that well, as he was looking pretty winded and tired at times in the fight. Those are signs he was overlooking Mayorga which is probably another reason the fight was much harder for him.
Al Bernstein Boxing Channel to Cover Live Pre & Post Dawson/Tarver Fight
Weigh-in Also Broadcast LIVE Over iBN Sports Network
Foothill Ranch, Calif. - September 29, 2008 - iBN Sports, a premier Internet-based broadcast sports television network announced that its Al Bernstein Channel (ABBC) will provide live weigh-in along with pre and post fight coverage of the October 11th light-heavyweight title match between Chad Dawson and Antonio Tarver from the Palms Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Al Bernstein and the iBN Sports team will be on hand to cover the weigh-in on October 10th, will also do reports before the match on October 11th and provide full coverage of the post fight press conference. All of this can be seen at www.ibnsports.com.
The Dawson/Tarver coverage represents the first in a series of up to the minute pre and post coverage of premiere matches that the ABBC will offer to fans throughout 2008. The lineup will include Kelly Pavlik vs. Bernard Hopkins on October 18th, Vic Darchinyan vs. Christian Mijares on November 1st, Ricky Hatton vs. Paulie Malinaggi on November 22nd, and finally Oscar DeLaHoya vs. Manny Pacquiao on December 6th. All broadcasts can be viewed live at www.ibnsports.com for free as well as seen on-demand on the channel for up to one year.
"This will be the first time in years that this kind of LIVE coverage will be been done at major boxing matches," said Bernstein. "I was an integral part of the live ESPN coverage for these kinds of matches for many years, and I know it provides fans with information that really helps them enjoy big boxing matches. Boxing fans have been underserved in recent years, but not anymore. We will give them the live pre and post fight coverage that will enhance their enjoyment of the fights. iBN Sports and the ABBC will be there to capture these exciting and interesting moments," said Bernstein.
"The iBN Sports team is truly excited by this venture with Al," said John Mudge, CEO of iBN Sports. "Al brings so much knowledge, energy and professional weight to everything he does. We believe this channel is unique and will provide an insider's perspective that only someone like Al can bring. Our fans will benefit from his indomitable passion, keen insight, and breadth of knowledge for the sport and we are extremely proud of this association with the ABBC," said Mudge
Weigh-in Also Broadcast LIVE Over iBN Sports Network
Foothill Ranch, Calif. - September 29, 2008 - iBN Sports, a premier Internet-based broadcast sports television network announced that its Al Bernstein Channel (ABBC) will provide live weigh-in along with pre and post fight coverage of the October 11th light-heavyweight title match between Chad Dawson and Antonio Tarver from the Palms Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Al Bernstein and the iBN Sports team will be on hand to cover the weigh-in on October 10th, will also do reports before the match on October 11th and provide full coverage of the post fight press conference. All of this can be seen at www.ibnsports.com.
The Dawson/Tarver coverage represents the first in a series of up to the minute pre and post coverage of premiere matches that the ABBC will offer to fans throughout 2008. The lineup will include Kelly Pavlik vs. Bernard Hopkins on October 18th, Vic Darchinyan vs. Christian Mijares on November 1st, Ricky Hatton vs. Paulie Malinaggi on November 22nd, and finally Oscar DeLaHoya vs. Manny Pacquiao on December 6th. All broadcasts can be viewed live at www.ibnsports.com for free as well as seen on-demand on the channel for up to one year.
"This will be the first time in years that this kind of LIVE coverage will be been done at major boxing matches," said Bernstein. "I was an integral part of the live ESPN coverage for these kinds of matches for many years, and I know it provides fans with information that really helps them enjoy big boxing matches. Boxing fans have been underserved in recent years, but not anymore. We will give them the live pre and post fight coverage that will enhance their enjoyment of the fights. iBN Sports and the ABBC will be there to capture these exciting and interesting moments," said Bernstein.
"The iBN Sports team is truly excited by this venture with Al," said John Mudge, CEO of iBN Sports. "Al brings so much knowledge, energy and professional weight to everything he does. We believe this channel is unique and will provide an insider's perspective that only someone like Al can bring. Our fans will benefit from his indomitable passion, keen insight, and breadth of knowledge for the sport and we are extremely proud of this association with the ABBC," said Mudge
Dela Hoya vs. Pacquiao, A Pacman Nightmare or a Golden Boy Reality Check?
29.09.08 - By Wayne Joseph Tulio - December 6 is well penciled in most fight fans’ calendar as the day marks a pound for pound match up than gives fans a reason to be excited about. Manny Pacquiao, touted as the sport of boxing’s pound for pound number one takes on Oscar Dela Hoya the most accomplished active boxer of this era. Tickets are already sold out, and the projected pay per view sales are through the roof. Fights fans are already counting the days.
But while some experts and many Pacquiao followers dismiss the Golden boy as a threat to Pacquiao’s dominance of the sport, a nightmare of a loss is starting to look real. I must admit as anstudent of the sport and as a fan, I am torn between this match up as I am a Pacquiao fan and an even bigger Oscar follower. Oscar has been inactive in recent years and Pacquiao is moving up to his heaviest weight yet, these factors makes the match up interesting rather than a mismatch in favour of the Golden boy as some say.
Oscar’s recent moves seem to show he’s taking the right steps in preparation for what might be his farewell fight.
First Dela Hoya hires a new trainer in the legendary Ignacio “Nacho” Beristain. As a fight fan, I am amazed that Dela Hoya changes trainers like yesterdays clothes but this change at a very important fight in his career is actually a wise decision. Pacquiao fought two close fights against Nacho’s top ward, Juan Manuel Marquez. From a trainer’s stand point, Beristain knows pacman real well and this could prove beneficial to Oscar. Beristain’s push for Marquez to box smartly, proved to cause Pacquiao headaches although Marquez came up short in both occasions. Beristain has the drive to finally break the Pacquiao code, and Oscar, like Marquez certainly is a specimen of a fighter who can execute a great strategy. Dela Hoya is a great boxer with good lateral movement. Power is undoubtedly not a question too. With a tactician like Nacho on his side, Dela Hoya can be confident in the strategy he will use to win.
Another good move is Dela Hoya working out “pre fight camp”. Most people would say it’s more about the money Oscar could lose for every pound over the weight limit if he comes in over the welterweight bar of 147 pounds, but in recent appearances, the Golden Boy is looking trim. By shedding pounds off early, Dela Hoya is reacquainting himself to the weight he hasn’t fought in since he won that blow out against the much smaller Arturo Gatti in 2001. Experts say that Oscar’s most dominant weight class is welterweight and it seems by working out pre fight camp; Oscar wants to make sure he will be in peak shape on fight night.
By taking these steps, Dela Hoya is clearly showing how much of a veteran he is and that he’s willing to do what it takes to make sure that he wins the fight and be in shape and die trying. Clearly, the dream match up is slowly starting to look like it could be a nightmare for the Filipino sensation. However Pacquiao is really what you can call an against the odds type of fighter and that makes him no push over against Oscar.
First, Pacquiao has what experts call a puncher’s chance. Power is something Pacquiao always had even as a junior flyweight years ago. Many will remember news reports coming out of Pacquiao’s training camp that he has to spar with bigger guys because they’re the ones who can take his power. Pacquiao also learned to throw more combinations in recent years and he also learned to throw the right hand more and has gained a degree of accuracy with it. Dela Hoya has to be wise against Pacquiao because with his power also comes speed. This certainly makes it dangerous for the Golden Boy to be in Pacman’s punching range.
Another factor for Pacman is actually the fight weight limit. Scales will not be of too much concern as his off season weight is closer to the welterweight limit and instead more time in training can be used to get accustomed to the weight and be able to move with it with ease. Since he need not lose too much weight for this fight he can become a well conditioned welterweight by fight night. With Freddie Roach having trained Dela Hoya in the past, he’ll have a good gauge of what the Golden boy has to offer. After all, this fight became an option for Pacquiao after his trainer assured him he can win this fight. These factors if Pacquiao takes advantage of them, will ensure a reality check for Oscar as he winds up his illustrious career.
At this point, the match up seems pretty even as both fighters have their strengths and good trainers who know the opposition well. It seems that this so called “dream fight” is surely not one to be missed. Whoever wins this fight, will only confirm that he is the best boxer of his era.
29.09.08 - By Wayne Joseph Tulio - December 6 is well penciled in most fight fans’ calendar as the day marks a pound for pound match up than gives fans a reason to be excited about. Manny Pacquiao, touted as the sport of boxing’s pound for pound number one takes on Oscar Dela Hoya the most accomplished active boxer of this era. Tickets are already sold out, and the projected pay per view sales are through the roof. Fights fans are already counting the days.
But while some experts and many Pacquiao followers dismiss the Golden boy as a threat to Pacquiao’s dominance of the sport, a nightmare of a loss is starting to look real. I must admit as anstudent of the sport and as a fan, I am torn between this match up as I am a Pacquiao fan and an even bigger Oscar follower. Oscar has been inactive in recent years and Pacquiao is moving up to his heaviest weight yet, these factors makes the match up interesting rather than a mismatch in favour of the Golden boy as some say.
Oscar’s recent moves seem to show he’s taking the right steps in preparation for what might be his farewell fight.
First Dela Hoya hires a new trainer in the legendary Ignacio “Nacho” Beristain. As a fight fan, I am amazed that Dela Hoya changes trainers like yesterdays clothes but this change at a very important fight in his career is actually a wise decision. Pacquiao fought two close fights against Nacho’s top ward, Juan Manuel Marquez. From a trainer’s stand point, Beristain knows pacman real well and this could prove beneficial to Oscar. Beristain’s push for Marquez to box smartly, proved to cause Pacquiao headaches although Marquez came up short in both occasions. Beristain has the drive to finally break the Pacquiao code, and Oscar, like Marquez certainly is a specimen of a fighter who can execute a great strategy. Dela Hoya is a great boxer with good lateral movement. Power is undoubtedly not a question too. With a tactician like Nacho on his side, Dela Hoya can be confident in the strategy he will use to win.
Another good move is Dela Hoya working out “pre fight camp”. Most people would say it’s more about the money Oscar could lose for every pound over the weight limit if he comes in over the welterweight bar of 147 pounds, but in recent appearances, the Golden Boy is looking trim. By shedding pounds off early, Dela Hoya is reacquainting himself to the weight he hasn’t fought in since he won that blow out against the much smaller Arturo Gatti in 2001. Experts say that Oscar’s most dominant weight class is welterweight and it seems by working out pre fight camp; Oscar wants to make sure he will be in peak shape on fight night.
By taking these steps, Dela Hoya is clearly showing how much of a veteran he is and that he’s willing to do what it takes to make sure that he wins the fight and be in shape and die trying. Clearly, the dream match up is slowly starting to look like it could be a nightmare for the Filipino sensation. However Pacquiao is really what you can call an against the odds type of fighter and that makes him no push over against Oscar.
First, Pacquiao has what experts call a puncher’s chance. Power is something Pacquiao always had even as a junior flyweight years ago. Many will remember news reports coming out of Pacquiao’s training camp that he has to spar with bigger guys because they’re the ones who can take his power. Pacquiao also learned to throw more combinations in recent years and he also learned to throw the right hand more and has gained a degree of accuracy with it. Dela Hoya has to be wise against Pacquiao because with his power also comes speed. This certainly makes it dangerous for the Golden Boy to be in Pacman’s punching range.
Another factor for Pacman is actually the fight weight limit. Scales will not be of too much concern as his off season weight is closer to the welterweight limit and instead more time in training can be used to get accustomed to the weight and be able to move with it with ease. Since he need not lose too much weight for this fight he can become a well conditioned welterweight by fight night. With Freddie Roach having trained Dela Hoya in the past, he’ll have a good gauge of what the Golden boy has to offer. After all, this fight became an option for Pacquiao after his trainer assured him he can win this fight. These factors if Pacquiao takes advantage of them, will ensure a reality check for Oscar as he winds up his illustrious career.
At this point, the match up seems pretty even as both fighters have their strengths and good trainers who know the opposition well. It seems that this so called “dream fight” is surely not one to be missed. Whoever wins this fight, will only confirm that he is the best boxer of his era.
Paul Williams: "Now You See Why Pavlik Pulled Out"
By Mark Vester
WBO welterweight champion Paul Williams surprised a lot of people when he recently made the leap from 147 to 160 and knocked out middleweight contender Andy Kolle in one-round. Williams took the fight to show the fans, and other potential opponents, that he wants to fight all of the big names from 147 to 160 - and even 168.
Williams told Ernest Gabion of BoxingScene.com that he plans to go back to 147 to make a defense of his WBO title and wants to clean up the welterweight division by fighting a rematch with Antonio Margarito, holder of the WBA title. Williams won a unanimous decision over Margarito last year. Williams returns to the ring on November 29 on HBO.
"We're going back to 147. I want to clean up 47. They are saying that Margarito is the man at 47, so hopefully I can get my fans and the networks to push him out so I can get a fight with him. After November 29th when I defend my belt, I'll probably go to 54. Try to clear up 54, the go back down 147, then go back up to 60. We're going to jump through all the weight classes," Williams said.
He wants to capture titles at 154 and 160, and then defend all three titles simultaneously. There were serious negotiations several months ago to stage a fight between Williams and WBC/WBO middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik. At one point both sides thought a deal would be reached, but it fell apart. Bob Arum, Pavlik's promoter, claimed that Williams' camp priced themselves out. Williams and his team don't believe that Pavlik really wanted the fight and says the performance against Kolle shows the reason why.
"I want to try to hold the belts in all the weight classes. I thought we had Pavlik for the fight that's coming up, but Pavlik pulled out. Now you see why he pulled out," Williams said.
By Mark Vester
WBO welterweight champion Paul Williams surprised a lot of people when he recently made the leap from 147 to 160 and knocked out middleweight contender Andy Kolle in one-round. Williams took the fight to show the fans, and other potential opponents, that he wants to fight all of the big names from 147 to 160 - and even 168.
Williams told Ernest Gabion of BoxingScene.com that he plans to go back to 147 to make a defense of his WBO title and wants to clean up the welterweight division by fighting a rematch with Antonio Margarito, holder of the WBA title. Williams won a unanimous decision over Margarito last year. Williams returns to the ring on November 29 on HBO.
"We're going back to 147. I want to clean up 47. They are saying that Margarito is the man at 47, so hopefully I can get my fans and the networks to push him out so I can get a fight with him. After November 29th when I defend my belt, I'll probably go to 54. Try to clear up 54, the go back down 147, then go back up to 60. We're going to jump through all the weight classes," Williams said.
He wants to capture titles at 154 and 160, and then defend all three titles simultaneously. There were serious negotiations several months ago to stage a fight between Williams and WBC/WBO middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik. At one point both sides thought a deal would be reached, but it fell apart. Bob Arum, Pavlik's promoter, claimed that Williams' camp priced themselves out. Williams and his team don't believe that Pavlik really wanted the fight and says the performance against Kolle shows the reason why.
"I want to try to hold the belts in all the weight classes. I thought we had Pavlik for the fight that's coming up, but Pavlik pulled out. Now you see why he pulled out," Williams said.
Joshua Clottey Wants Paul Williams on November 29
By Mark Vester
In response to my earlier news brief regarding WBO welterweight champion Paul Williams, BoxingScene.com was contacted by Vincent Scolpino, manager of IBF welterweight champ Joshua Clottey. Scolpino tells BoxingScene that Clottey is more than willing to fight Williams in a unification bout on November 29 on HBO. At the moment, Williams is without an opponent.
Williams recently fought at 160, easily stopping Andy Kolle in one-round, but told BoxingScene in the aftermath that he plans to return to 147 to clean the division up.
"We're going back to 147. I want to clean up 47. They are saying that Margarito is the man at 47, so hopefully I can get my fans and the networks to push him out so I can get a fight with him. After November 29th when I defend my belt, I'll probably go to 54. Try to clear up 54, the go back down 147, then go back up to 60. We're going to jump through all the weight classes," Williams said.
Scolpino says that if Williams needs an opponent for the November date, all he has to do is have his promoter Dan Goossen contact Top Rank.
"Tell Williams to tell his promoter we want to get it on for November 29th. We will put our title up and take his on that night. All he has to do is to call our promoter Bob Arum and make it happen," Scolpino said.
Williams does owe a mandatory defense against Michael Jennings, but under the rules of most sanctioning bodies, a champion can take part in a unification bout before his mandatory obligation.
By Mark Vester
In response to my earlier news brief regarding WBO welterweight champion Paul Williams, BoxingScene.com was contacted by Vincent Scolpino, manager of IBF welterweight champ Joshua Clottey. Scolpino tells BoxingScene that Clottey is more than willing to fight Williams in a unification bout on November 29 on HBO. At the moment, Williams is without an opponent.
Williams recently fought at 160, easily stopping Andy Kolle in one-round, but told BoxingScene in the aftermath that he plans to return to 147 to clean the division up.
"We're going back to 147. I want to clean up 47. They are saying that Margarito is the man at 47, so hopefully I can get my fans and the networks to push him out so I can get a fight with him. After November 29th when I defend my belt, I'll probably go to 54. Try to clear up 54, the go back down 147, then go back up to 60. We're going to jump through all the weight classes," Williams said.
Scolpino says that if Williams needs an opponent for the November date, all he has to do is have his promoter Dan Goossen contact Top Rank.
"Tell Williams to tell his promoter we want to get it on for November 29th. We will put our title up and take his on that night. All he has to do is to call our promoter Bob Arum and make it happen," Scolpino said.
Williams does owe a mandatory defense against Michael Jennings, but under the rules of most sanctioning bodies, a champion can take part in a unification bout before his mandatory obligation.
Jermain Taylor: "I Want To Make an Impact at 168"
By Mark Vester
Former undisputed middleweight champion Jermain Taylor is going back to his roots for the November 15th bout with former super middleweight ruler Jeff Lacy. Taylor is back in South Florida, training at the Young Tiger Gym in Kendall. After winning a bronze medal at the 2000 Olympic games, Taylor trained in Miami for his first 24 pro-fights.
"Miami is like a second home to me. I know the area, and I am very comfortable here," Taylor told The Miami Herald.
Lacy was Taylor's Olympic teammate in 2000, and the two fighters became friends afterwards. They knew since their Olympic days that a time would come when they had to fight each other in the pro ranks. After doing everything he could at 160, Taylor tells the paper that he plans to make an impact at super middleweight.
"Jeff is an old friend, we have known each other since we were kids," Taylor said. "It's really not going to be awkward fighting him. We have talked about this fight for a long time. I feel very comfortable as a super middleweight. This is where I now want to make an impact."
By Mark Vester
Former undisputed middleweight champion Jermain Taylor is going back to his roots for the November 15th bout with former super middleweight ruler Jeff Lacy. Taylor is back in South Florida, training at the Young Tiger Gym in Kendall. After winning a bronze medal at the 2000 Olympic games, Taylor trained in Miami for his first 24 pro-fights.
"Miami is like a second home to me. I know the area, and I am very comfortable here," Taylor told The Miami Herald.
Lacy was Taylor's Olympic teammate in 2000, and the two fighters became friends afterwards. They knew since their Olympic days that a time would come when they had to fight each other in the pro ranks. After doing everything he could at 160, Taylor tells the paper that he plans to make an impact at super middleweight.
"Jeff is an old friend, we have known each other since we were kids," Taylor said. "It's really not going to be awkward fighting him. We have talked about this fight for a long time. I feel very comfortable as a super middleweight. This is where I now want to make an impact."
Darnell Wilson, Hoye Lead "The Contender" Season 4 List
By Mark Vester
The next batch of fighters for the "The Contender" reality series has been finalized. The fourth season of the show is scheduled to debut in December on the Versus network. The new season will revolve around the cruiserweight division, and the two biggest names on the list of fighters are Darnell Wilson and Rico Hoye. It appears Sugar Ray Leonard will no longer be host. Actor and one-time pro fighter Tony Danza will take his place. Trainers Tommy Brooks and John Bray will replace Buddy McGirt and Pepe Correa.
Dan Rafael reports that this year's tournament is currently in filming in Singapore. There will be 11 episodes with a two-hour live finale on February 19. The overall grand prize has been as high as $1 million dollars. The new dollar amount has not been determined.
There will be 16 fighters in the tournament. Rafael ran down the full list of fighters, mostly unknowns, in ABC order with their age, hometown and pro record.
• Mike Alexander (34, Columbus, Ohio, 12-2, 8 KOs).
• Felix Cora Jr. (28, Galveston, Texas, 18-2-2, 9 KOs).
• Ryan Coyne (26, St. Louis, 9-0, 3 KOs).
• Ehinomen "Hino" Ehikhamenor (28, Queens, N.Y., 12-3-0, 7 KOs).
• Deon Elam (28, Van Nuys, Calif., 9-0-0, 5 KOs).
• Alfredo Escalera Jr. (28, San Juan, Puerto Rico, 15-1-1, 11 KOs).
• Tim Flamos (41, Brockton, Mass., 20-4-1, 8 KOs).
• Richard Gingras (27, Claremont, N.H., 9-1-0, 5 KOs).
• Joell Godfrey (27, East St. Louis, Ill., 9-0-1, 5 KOs).
• Rico Hoye (33, Detroit, 20-2, 15 KOs).
• Akinyemi "AK" Laleye (27, Las Vegas, 10-1, 5 KOs).
• Troy Ross (33, Toronto, 17-1, 12 KOs).
• Jon Schneider (29, Yonkers, N.Y., 7-2-1, 5 KOs).
• Lawrence Tauasa (29, Sydney, Australia, 30-5-1, 17 KOs).
• Erick Vega (29, Phoenix, 8-2-1, 6 KOs).
• Darnell Wilson (33, Takoma Park, Md., 23-7-3, 20 KOs
By Mark Vester
The next batch of fighters for the "The Contender" reality series has been finalized. The fourth season of the show is scheduled to debut in December on the Versus network. The new season will revolve around the cruiserweight division, and the two biggest names on the list of fighters are Darnell Wilson and Rico Hoye. It appears Sugar Ray Leonard will no longer be host. Actor and one-time pro fighter Tony Danza will take his place. Trainers Tommy Brooks and John Bray will replace Buddy McGirt and Pepe Correa.
Dan Rafael reports that this year's tournament is currently in filming in Singapore. There will be 11 episodes with a two-hour live finale on February 19. The overall grand prize has been as high as $1 million dollars. The new dollar amount has not been determined.
There will be 16 fighters in the tournament. Rafael ran down the full list of fighters, mostly unknowns, in ABC order with their age, hometown and pro record.
• Mike Alexander (34, Columbus, Ohio, 12-2, 8 KOs).
• Felix Cora Jr. (28, Galveston, Texas, 18-2-2, 9 KOs).
• Ryan Coyne (26, St. Louis, 9-0, 3 KOs).
• Ehinomen "Hino" Ehikhamenor (28, Queens, N.Y., 12-3-0, 7 KOs).
• Deon Elam (28, Van Nuys, Calif., 9-0-0, 5 KOs).
• Alfredo Escalera Jr. (28, San Juan, Puerto Rico, 15-1-1, 11 KOs).
• Tim Flamos (41, Brockton, Mass., 20-4-1, 8 KOs).
• Richard Gingras (27, Claremont, N.H., 9-1-0, 5 KOs).
• Joell Godfrey (27, East St. Louis, Ill., 9-0-1, 5 KOs).
• Rico Hoye (33, Detroit, 20-2, 15 KOs).
• Akinyemi "AK" Laleye (27, Las Vegas, 10-1, 5 KOs).
• Troy Ross (33, Toronto, 17-1, 12 KOs).
• Jon Schneider (29, Yonkers, N.Y., 7-2-1, 5 KOs).
• Lawrence Tauasa (29, Sydney, Australia, 30-5-1, 17 KOs).
• Erick Vega (29, Phoenix, 8-2-1, 6 KOs).
• Darnell Wilson (33, Takoma Park, Md., 23-7-3, 20 KOs
At this point in Oscar's career...he's stuck in his boxing ways. It was apparent in his one sided loss to Floyd, he wasn't even paying attention to Freddie Roach in between rounds.
I don't think hiring Nacho is going to change much. Its definitely not going to make him any quicker. Which is going to be his toughest challenge, keeping up with the blistering pace of Manny.
I don't think hiring Nacho is going to change much. Its definitely not going to make him any quicker. Which is going to be his toughest challenge, keeping up with the blistering pace of Manny.
At this point in Oscar's career...he's stuck in his boxing ways. It was apparent in his one sided loss to Floyd, he wasn't even paying attention to Freddie Roach in between rounds.
I don't think hiring Nacho is going to change much. Its definitely not going to make him any quicker. Which is going to be his toughest challenge, keeping up with the blistering pace of Manny.
I don't think hiring Nacho is going to change much. Its definitely not going to make him any quicker. Which is going to be his toughest challenge, keeping up with the blistering pace of Manny.
Paul Williams Furiously Confronts Berto, Joshua Clottey
By Rick Reeno
The day was almost finished, everything was quiet and I was contemplating a quick nap - until my phone rang. To my surprise, there was a furious Paul "The Punisher" Williams on the other end of the line. As I quickly found out, Williams was going through his usual routine, checking out the latest and greatest on BoxingScene.com, when suddenly his blood began to boil as he noticed two separate content items that were posted since his last visit.
"They got me hot. Let's address this right now. They calling me out, now I'm answering the calls. I don't really say too much on the internet but now I'm making my comments on the internet and I'm making comments in the ring. I come on to read some good comments and then I see that. I said Ok, let's get them on the chopping block," Williams said.
The first was a headline article penned by Lyle Fitzsimmons, where unbeaten WBC welterweight champion Andre Berto called himself the best welterweight in the division. (Click To Read)
"I think I am the best welterweight out there,” said Berto. “I think I have the total package when you combine speed, power, agility and the ability to adjust to any sort of style from the opposition. I’m the first of the new breed of fighter in this weight class and I’m eager to make big fights with the rest of the big names out there.”
Fitzsimmons touched on some comments that were made by Berto's promoter, Lou DiBella, following last weekend's decision win over Steve Forbes. DiBella said that he wasn't yet ready to put Berto in against the likes of Antonio Margarito, Paul Williams or Miguel Cotto. Speaking with Fitzsimmons, Berto gave his take on DiBella's comments and said that he is without question on the same level as fighters like Williams, Margarito and Cotto.
“I’m on their level, there’s no question, but he’s my promoter and he’s looking out for my best interests in terms of the business end of things,” Williams said. “We’re going to take our time and when things are ready to go, I’ll get those guys and get my due. It’ll happen. I know it.”
Williams tells BoxingScene that Berto made a serious violation by calling himself the best welterweight. He admits that Berto caught him off-guard with the comments. And according to Williams, any welterweight champion who calls himself the best at the weight - is calling for a fight with "The Punisher." Williams doesn't want Berto to wait. He wants Berto to put up his title for a unification bout on November 29, the set date for Williams' next appearance on HBO.
"I can't believe Berto said that," William said. "I think when DiBella said what he said, it hurt his pride and he said what he said. I like Andre Berto and we cool and stuff but the green belt will good in my trophy case. Berto can get it too. He's in shape, he can come on the 29th and get it. I don't want any excuses. He didn't get hurt in that Forbes fight. I know he's in good shape, nothing happened to him in that fight. I know he's fast, but his speed will run into a brick wall.”
"He called himself the best, that's calling me out. He can't take it back now. After DiBella said he didn’t want to put him in the ring with me, Berto should of let it die like that. Now I want that WBC belt. Now that he said he's the best - it's on. He called me out by saying he's the best. Now he's on the chopping block and I have to burn him up. I still can't believe that Berto made that comment on the internet. I don't write checks that I can't cash. Now his head is on the chopping block."
Williams didn't stop there. That was only the first item. The second item was a news brief by Mark Vester, where Vincent Scolpino, manager of IBF welterweight champ Joshua Clottey, contacted BoxingScene to issue a challenge. He wanted Williams to know that Clottey was ready and willing to fight him on November 29. (Click To Read)
"Tell Williams to tell his promoter we want to get it on for November 29th. We will put our title up and take his on that night. All he has to do is to call our promoter Bob Arum and make it happen," Scolpino said.
One phone call will indeed make the fight happen, says Williams. He says if Clottey really wants the fight, all he has to do is make one phone to make it official.
"I will slap Clottey around. I know my fans would love to see it. They can contact my peoples and it's a done deal. Now they won't be able to get any sleep. They shouldn’t have said that and now its too late to take it back. They want to fight me - lets make it happen! There is no going back now. All they have to do is contact my people and it's a done deal. I don't want no excuses when I slap Clottey around. I may knock him back to Ghana," Williams said.
In his last two fights, Williams quickly dispatched of Carlos Quintana and middleweight Andy Kolle, both by knockout in the first. Williams predicts quick knockout wins over both Berto and Clottey. So quick that he's willing to fight both of them on the same night, one by one.
"I'll fight Berto and Clottey on the 29th. I might make it so quick they may as well put them in the ring together and I'll knock them both of them out one by one. Both of them can get it. They can put both of them in the ring at the same time. All they have to do is contact my people, contact Al Haymon, and we can get it for the 29th of November," Williams said.
"They all say they want me. They say that stuff to look good on the internet, but really they don't want none. I'm right here. This is for the guys with heart who can we get up with everybody. We fought everyone that we said we would fight. We'll fight anyone. We don't fight handpicked guys, no cabdrivers. I get killers in the ring and make them look like nobodies."
The recent jump in weight to re-test the waters at middleweight was primarily done to send a message. He wanted the big names at 154 and 160, to know that he was serious about fighting in multiple weight divisions.
Trainer George Peterson has been teaching him to sit on his punches, increasing their lethal nature in the process. Despite his newfound success with blowing opponents out in the first-round, Williams would rather let them hang on for few and slowly punish them as the fight progresses.
“I don't like to knock them out. I like beat on them for a while. But, you have people saying Paul Williams don't have no power and that I can't knock guys out, so now I sit down on my punches and knock them out. They already know it’s going to a tough fight and they are going to get beat up in the ring. You know they are crying now that I'm knocking them all out,” Williams said.
Williams was so enraged by Berto and Clottey, that even Peterson was surprised.
“In ten-years, I’ve never seen him like this,” Peterson said. “He’s really hot right now.”
Other possible November opponents.
“[IBF junior middleweight champion] Verno Phillips is almost out the door. I'll help go into retirement. Michael Jennings is my mandatory so he definitely got it coming to him. He saw what happened to Andy Kolle. His head is on the chopping block too. If he wants some, he better know I’m not taking any prisoners.,” Williams said.
No chance of retirement in the near future.
“When I get all the belts at 147, all the belts at 154 and all the belts at 160 - then I'll retire. The longer they make me wait, I'll be right here and I'll beat on them even more once I get them in the ring for making me wait,” William said. “Hopefully I can get any of those guys so you can see some fireworks on the 29th.”
By Rick Reeno
The day was almost finished, everything was quiet and I was contemplating a quick nap - until my phone rang. To my surprise, there was a furious Paul "The Punisher" Williams on the other end of the line. As I quickly found out, Williams was going through his usual routine, checking out the latest and greatest on BoxingScene.com, when suddenly his blood began to boil as he noticed two separate content items that were posted since his last visit.
"They got me hot. Let's address this right now. They calling me out, now I'm answering the calls. I don't really say too much on the internet but now I'm making my comments on the internet and I'm making comments in the ring. I come on to read some good comments and then I see that. I said Ok, let's get them on the chopping block," Williams said.
The first was a headline article penned by Lyle Fitzsimmons, where unbeaten WBC welterweight champion Andre Berto called himself the best welterweight in the division. (Click To Read)
"I think I am the best welterweight out there,” said Berto. “I think I have the total package when you combine speed, power, agility and the ability to adjust to any sort of style from the opposition. I’m the first of the new breed of fighter in this weight class and I’m eager to make big fights with the rest of the big names out there.”
Fitzsimmons touched on some comments that were made by Berto's promoter, Lou DiBella, following last weekend's decision win over Steve Forbes. DiBella said that he wasn't yet ready to put Berto in against the likes of Antonio Margarito, Paul Williams or Miguel Cotto. Speaking with Fitzsimmons, Berto gave his take on DiBella's comments and said that he is without question on the same level as fighters like Williams, Margarito and Cotto.
“I’m on their level, there’s no question, but he’s my promoter and he’s looking out for my best interests in terms of the business end of things,” Williams said. “We’re going to take our time and when things are ready to go, I’ll get those guys and get my due. It’ll happen. I know it.”
Williams tells BoxingScene that Berto made a serious violation by calling himself the best welterweight. He admits that Berto caught him off-guard with the comments. And according to Williams, any welterweight champion who calls himself the best at the weight - is calling for a fight with "The Punisher." Williams doesn't want Berto to wait. He wants Berto to put up his title for a unification bout on November 29, the set date for Williams' next appearance on HBO.
"I can't believe Berto said that," William said. "I think when DiBella said what he said, it hurt his pride and he said what he said. I like Andre Berto and we cool and stuff but the green belt will good in my trophy case. Berto can get it too. He's in shape, he can come on the 29th and get it. I don't want any excuses. He didn't get hurt in that Forbes fight. I know he's in good shape, nothing happened to him in that fight. I know he's fast, but his speed will run into a brick wall.”
"He called himself the best, that's calling me out. He can't take it back now. After DiBella said he didn’t want to put him in the ring with me, Berto should of let it die like that. Now I want that WBC belt. Now that he said he's the best - it's on. He called me out by saying he's the best. Now he's on the chopping block and I have to burn him up. I still can't believe that Berto made that comment on the internet. I don't write checks that I can't cash. Now his head is on the chopping block."
Williams didn't stop there. That was only the first item. The second item was a news brief by Mark Vester, where Vincent Scolpino, manager of IBF welterweight champ Joshua Clottey, contacted BoxingScene to issue a challenge. He wanted Williams to know that Clottey was ready and willing to fight him on November 29. (Click To Read)
"Tell Williams to tell his promoter we want to get it on for November 29th. We will put our title up and take his on that night. All he has to do is to call our promoter Bob Arum and make it happen," Scolpino said.
One phone call will indeed make the fight happen, says Williams. He says if Clottey really wants the fight, all he has to do is make one phone to make it official.
"I will slap Clottey around. I know my fans would love to see it. They can contact my peoples and it's a done deal. Now they won't be able to get any sleep. They shouldn’t have said that and now its too late to take it back. They want to fight me - lets make it happen! There is no going back now. All they have to do is contact my people and it's a done deal. I don't want no excuses when I slap Clottey around. I may knock him back to Ghana," Williams said.
In his last two fights, Williams quickly dispatched of Carlos Quintana and middleweight Andy Kolle, both by knockout in the first. Williams predicts quick knockout wins over both Berto and Clottey. So quick that he's willing to fight both of them on the same night, one by one.
"I'll fight Berto and Clottey on the 29th. I might make it so quick they may as well put them in the ring together and I'll knock them both of them out one by one. Both of them can get it. They can put both of them in the ring at the same time. All they have to do is contact my people, contact Al Haymon, and we can get it for the 29th of November," Williams said.
"They all say they want me. They say that stuff to look good on the internet, but really they don't want none. I'm right here. This is for the guys with heart who can we get up with everybody. We fought everyone that we said we would fight. We'll fight anyone. We don't fight handpicked guys, no cabdrivers. I get killers in the ring and make them look like nobodies."
The recent jump in weight to re-test the waters at middleweight was primarily done to send a message. He wanted the big names at 154 and 160, to know that he was serious about fighting in multiple weight divisions.
Trainer George Peterson has been teaching him to sit on his punches, increasing their lethal nature in the process. Despite his newfound success with blowing opponents out in the first-round, Williams would rather let them hang on for few and slowly punish them as the fight progresses.
“I don't like to knock them out. I like beat on them for a while. But, you have people saying Paul Williams don't have no power and that I can't knock guys out, so now I sit down on my punches and knock them out. They already know it’s going to a tough fight and they are going to get beat up in the ring. You know they are crying now that I'm knocking them all out,” Williams said.
Williams was so enraged by Berto and Clottey, that even Peterson was surprised.
“In ten-years, I’ve never seen him like this,” Peterson said. “He’s really hot right now.”
Other possible November opponents.
“[IBF junior middleweight champion] Verno Phillips is almost out the door. I'll help go into retirement. Michael Jennings is my mandatory so he definitely got it coming to him. He saw what happened to Andy Kolle. His head is on the chopping block too. If he wants some, he better know I’m not taking any prisoners.,” Williams said.
No chance of retirement in the near future.
“When I get all the belts at 147, all the belts at 154 and all the belts at 160 - then I'll retire. The longer they make me wait, I'll be right here and I'll beat on them even more once I get them in the ring for making me wait,” William said. “Hopefully I can get any of those guys so you can see some fireworks on the 29th.”
Lou DiBella Responds To Paul Williams vs. Andre Berto
By Rick Reeno
After reading my recent piece with WBO welterweight champion Paul Williams, promoter Lou DiBella contacted BoxingScene.com to discuss Williams' furious comments regarding WBC champ Andre Berto. Williams took offense to a recent article on BoxingScene, where Berto called himself the best welterweight in the division. (Click Here To Read)
In the opinion of Williams, who considers himself the best at 147, Berto made a serious violation by making the same claim. Following Berto's win over Steve Forbes last weekend, DiBella told media members that he wasn't ready to put Berto in the ring with the likes of Williams and Antonio Margarito.
"I can't believe Berto said that," William said. "I think when DiBella said what he said, it hurt his pride and he said what he said. I like Andre Berto and we cool and stuff but the green belt will good in my trophy case. Berto can get it too. He's in shape, he can come on the 29th and get it. I don't want any excuses. He didn't get hurt in that Forbes fight. I know he's in good shape, nothing happened to him in that fight. I know he's fast, but his speed will run into a brick wall.”
"He called himself the best, that's calling me out. He can't take it back now. After DiBella said he didn’t want to put him in the ring with me, Berto should of let it die like that. Now I want that WBC belt. Now that he said he's the best - it's on. He called me out by saying he's the best. Now he's on the chopping block and I have to burn him up. I still can't believe that Berto made that comment on the internet. I don't write checks that I can't cash. Now his head is on the chopping block."
DiBella tells BoxingScene that he respects Williams as a serious talent and a champion, but he doesn't think Williams should be fighting at 147-pounds. He says the size difference between Berto, listed at 5'8, and Williams, closer to 6'2 - is physically too much. He believes that Williams is frustrated with so many fighters avoiding him and is taking his anger out on the wrong person.
"He should relax and chill out. My guy says he's the best. What is he supposed to think? I think he's one of the best fighters out there, but he's a seven-foot welterweight and Berto is a small welterweight. Williams is a freak of nature. He should look in the mirror, he's not a welterweight. He just fought at middleweight and he looked pretty devastating. His best weight is probably 154-pounds, he should start looking at those guys if he can't find a big fight at 147, DiBella said.
"I'm not comfortable with putting in a fighter, who's had a very short career, with a much more experienced fighter, who by the way Berto would have to jump on a foot stool to fight eye to eye. And that's my decision, not Berto's. He would fight King Kong if I asked him to. That's the kind of fighter he is and that's why he will become a great champion."
"Berto was not calling him out. Any young undefeated kid with Berto's talent who doesn't believe he's the best, should not be in the game. Paul should take a look at some of his own interviews when he was a younger fighter, where he used to call himself the best welterweight in the world. I think he's angry that he beat Margarito and nobody is mentioning his name in these big money fights. I actually don’t blame him, but he shouldn't take it out on the wrong people."
"Berto is a guy being brought along in the appropriate way. He doesn't go around and disrespect other fighters. He knows that he's still a work in progress. Paul should be more worried that his name is not brought up with all of these big fights, and that's the reason he is frustrated and led to the anger at Berto. I have nothing but respect for him as a champion."
Berto was not the only target of Williams' fury. A lot of comments were also directed to IBF champion Joshua Clottey, because Clottey's manager Vincent Scolpino recently came on BoxingScene to call Williams out for a fight on November 29 on HBO.
DiBella says a fight between Williams and Clottey makes a lot of sense for both guys, and since the two fighters are calling each other out, they might as well settle the issue in the ring in November.
"Williams and Clottey makes a lot of sense because nobody is running to fight either of them. Paul is physical freak of nature, Clottey is a very dangerous guy who doesn't bring any money to the table. Frankly I think it's a very good fight and it's a unification. I'm not their promoter and I'm not their matchmaker, but it happens to be a pretty good fight," DiBella said.
One issue that may come up with Williams-Clottey, is the personal issue between Clottey's promoter Bob Arum and Williams' manager Al Haymon. After negotiations fell apart for a fight between Williams and middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik, Arum vowed to never deal with Haymon again. DiBella doesn't believe the bad blood between Arum and Haymon would stop the fight.
"I don't think that will get in the way. It's not like Clottey's dance card is full and it's not like Arum is running to put him in with Cotto or Margarito," DiBella said.
For the record, DiBella said he was misquoted in the Berto-Forbes post-fight. If the opportunity came about, he would entertain the possibility of matching Berto against Shane Mosley or Miguel Cotto, who are both much closer to Berto in terms of size.
"I never said I wouldn’t put Berto in the ring with Miguel Cotto or Shane Mosley. If those fights ever materialized, we would take those fights for the opportunity," DiBella said.
By Rick Reeno
After reading my recent piece with WBO welterweight champion Paul Williams, promoter Lou DiBella contacted BoxingScene.com to discuss Williams' furious comments regarding WBC champ Andre Berto. Williams took offense to a recent article on BoxingScene, where Berto called himself the best welterweight in the division. (Click Here To Read)
In the opinion of Williams, who considers himself the best at 147, Berto made a serious violation by making the same claim. Following Berto's win over Steve Forbes last weekend, DiBella told media members that he wasn't ready to put Berto in the ring with the likes of Williams and Antonio Margarito.
"I can't believe Berto said that," William said. "I think when DiBella said what he said, it hurt his pride and he said what he said. I like Andre Berto and we cool and stuff but the green belt will good in my trophy case. Berto can get it too. He's in shape, he can come on the 29th and get it. I don't want any excuses. He didn't get hurt in that Forbes fight. I know he's in good shape, nothing happened to him in that fight. I know he's fast, but his speed will run into a brick wall.”
"He called himself the best, that's calling me out. He can't take it back now. After DiBella said he didn’t want to put him in the ring with me, Berto should of let it die like that. Now I want that WBC belt. Now that he said he's the best - it's on. He called me out by saying he's the best. Now he's on the chopping block and I have to burn him up. I still can't believe that Berto made that comment on the internet. I don't write checks that I can't cash. Now his head is on the chopping block."
DiBella tells BoxingScene that he respects Williams as a serious talent and a champion, but he doesn't think Williams should be fighting at 147-pounds. He says the size difference between Berto, listed at 5'8, and Williams, closer to 6'2 - is physically too much. He believes that Williams is frustrated with so many fighters avoiding him and is taking his anger out on the wrong person.
"He should relax and chill out. My guy says he's the best. What is he supposed to think? I think he's one of the best fighters out there, but he's a seven-foot welterweight and Berto is a small welterweight. Williams is a freak of nature. He should look in the mirror, he's not a welterweight. He just fought at middleweight and he looked pretty devastating. His best weight is probably 154-pounds, he should start looking at those guys if he can't find a big fight at 147, DiBella said.
"I'm not comfortable with putting in a fighter, who's had a very short career, with a much more experienced fighter, who by the way Berto would have to jump on a foot stool to fight eye to eye. And that's my decision, not Berto's. He would fight King Kong if I asked him to. That's the kind of fighter he is and that's why he will become a great champion."
"Berto was not calling him out. Any young undefeated kid with Berto's talent who doesn't believe he's the best, should not be in the game. Paul should take a look at some of his own interviews when he was a younger fighter, where he used to call himself the best welterweight in the world. I think he's angry that he beat Margarito and nobody is mentioning his name in these big money fights. I actually don’t blame him, but he shouldn't take it out on the wrong people."
"Berto is a guy being brought along in the appropriate way. He doesn't go around and disrespect other fighters. He knows that he's still a work in progress. Paul should be more worried that his name is not brought up with all of these big fights, and that's the reason he is frustrated and led to the anger at Berto. I have nothing but respect for him as a champion."
Berto was not the only target of Williams' fury. A lot of comments were also directed to IBF champion Joshua Clottey, because Clottey's manager Vincent Scolpino recently came on BoxingScene to call Williams out for a fight on November 29 on HBO.
DiBella says a fight between Williams and Clottey makes a lot of sense for both guys, and since the two fighters are calling each other out, they might as well settle the issue in the ring in November.
"Williams and Clottey makes a lot of sense because nobody is running to fight either of them. Paul is physical freak of nature, Clottey is a very dangerous guy who doesn't bring any money to the table. Frankly I think it's a very good fight and it's a unification. I'm not their promoter and I'm not their matchmaker, but it happens to be a pretty good fight," DiBella said.
One issue that may come up with Williams-Clottey, is the personal issue between Clottey's promoter Bob Arum and Williams' manager Al Haymon. After negotiations fell apart for a fight between Williams and middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik, Arum vowed to never deal with Haymon again. DiBella doesn't believe the bad blood between Arum and Haymon would stop the fight.
"I don't think that will get in the way. It's not like Clottey's dance card is full and it's not like Arum is running to put him in with Cotto or Margarito," DiBella said.
For the record, DiBella said he was misquoted in the Berto-Forbes post-fight. If the opportunity came about, he would entertain the possibility of matching Berto against Shane Mosley or Miguel Cotto, who are both much closer to Berto in terms of size.
"I never said I wouldn’t put Berto in the ring with Miguel Cotto or Shane Mosley. If those fights ever materialized, we would take those fights for the opportunity," DiBella said.
Hatton Tells Mayweather Sr, Graham - Leave Us Out!
By Mark Vester
Ray Hatton, father and manager of former two-division champion Ricky Hatton, has told his son's current trainer, Floyd Mayweather Sr, and Ricky's former trainer, Billy Graham, to stop placing them in the middle of an ongoing war of words in the press.
Graham had trained Hatton since the fighter turned pro. He was fired a few months ago and eventually replaced by Mayweather Sr, father of the man who knocked Hatton out last December, Floyd Mayweather Jr.
Since the hire, the two trainers have been at war through the media, taking shots at each other's training practices. Ray finally put his foot down and wants to keep his family away from the conflict.
"As far as Billy goes, we don't feel guilty in any way, shape or form about how it ended. We have been good friends with Billy and we have been good colleagues together. Whatever Billy says and whatever Floyd Mayweather says it is their problem and not ours," Hatton told writer Zehaad Hassan. "If things don't sit easily on other people's shoulders then there is not a lot we can do about that. It's been a good camp so far - it has been happy and we want it to stay that way."
Ray would like to see his son retire after the November 22 bout with Paulie Malignaggi, but he doesn't think that will happen.
"He has made it clear that he will be fighting for the next couple of years. At the end of the day, my gut instinct is the same as Ricky's - he has a good two years left. He makes his decisions but if he turned around after this next fight and said 'That's it' I would respect his wishes," Hatton said. "It's not easy for me and his mum to see him in the ring so if he said to me that was it, I wouldn't break my heart - in fact I would be quite relieved."
By Mark Vester
Ray Hatton, father and manager of former two-division champion Ricky Hatton, has told his son's current trainer, Floyd Mayweather Sr, and Ricky's former trainer, Billy Graham, to stop placing them in the middle of an ongoing war of words in the press.
Graham had trained Hatton since the fighter turned pro. He was fired a few months ago and eventually replaced by Mayweather Sr, father of the man who knocked Hatton out last December, Floyd Mayweather Jr.
Since the hire, the two trainers have been at war through the media, taking shots at each other's training practices. Ray finally put his foot down and wants to keep his family away from the conflict.
"As far as Billy goes, we don't feel guilty in any way, shape or form about how it ended. We have been good friends with Billy and we have been good colleagues together. Whatever Billy says and whatever Floyd Mayweather says it is their problem and not ours," Hatton told writer Zehaad Hassan. "If things don't sit easily on other people's shoulders then there is not a lot we can do about that. It's been a good camp so far - it has been happy and we want it to stay that way."
Ray would like to see his son retire after the November 22 bout with Paulie Malignaggi, but he doesn't think that will happen.
"He has made it clear that he will be fighting for the next couple of years. At the end of the day, my gut instinct is the same as Ricky's - he has a good two years left. He makes his decisions but if he turned around after this next fight and said 'That's it' I would respect his wishes," Hatton said. "It's not easy for me and his mum to see him in the ring so if he said to me that was it, I wouldn't break my heart - in fact I would be quite relieved."
Andre Berto - "I am The Best Welterweight"
By Lyle Fitzsimmons
Forty-eight hours past the biggest win of his career, Andre Berto was still throwing combinations.
After hesitatingly claiming a place among the welterweight elite Monday using the word “young” as a qualifier, the powerful 25-year-old Floridian replied to a follow-up query with an unmistakable view of where he truly fits in.
“Yes, I think I am the best welterweight out there,” said Berto, who defended his WBC share of the 147-pound title for the first time with a wide points win over Steve Forbes Saturday night.
“I believe it, and I know that in due time I’ll be able to prove to everyone else that I’m No. 1.”
Flicking jab. Straight right hand. I’m the best.
Mssrs. Margarito, Cotto and Williams… deal with it.
“I think I have the total package when you combine speed, power, agility and the ability to adjust to any sort of style from the opposition,” he said. “I’m the first of the new breed of fighter in this weight class and I’m eager to make big fights with the rest of the big names out there.”
A convincing winner over Miki Rodriguez to win the Mayweather-vacated crown in June, Berto improved to 23-0 in a four-year career with verdicts of 118-109, 118-109 and 116-111 against Forbes - who got the shot as a reward for a game effort against Oscar De La Hoya in May.
He admitted toting nerves into the ring against the 31-year-old veteran, a former world champion at 130 pounds who’d resurrected his career with a role in “The Contender” series and was seen as a tricky foil for a foe with one-third his professional experience.
And make no mistake, trying to leave the ring with the green belt was pressure, too.
“It was mainly a fight to get me over the hump and establish myself,” he said. “Being a young champion, it’s important to get out there and have a fight and get rid of the butterflies. Now I feel like I’ve done that. I got in there with a seasoned vet and I had a dominating performance.
“I wanted to go for the knockout and I feel like I probably could have done more, but his style made me want to sit back more and be smart. It was more like a chess match than any fight I’ve had. I knew I couldn’t just go to work, because he’d make me pay for any mistakes I’d make.”
Berto’s upbringing and relationship with his father, Dieuseul, was the source of a lengthy pre-fight feature story on the HBO broadcast, giving the premium cable audience its first extended look into the former Haitian Olympian’s compelling back story.
The Berto-Forbes fight was a TV semifinal to the Shane Mosley-Ricardo Mayorga main event.
“I knew they were going to show the story and it was exciting,” Berto said. “I remember growing up and watching great fighters on HBO and learning about them, so it was kind of something that certified me as having arrived on an elite level. I wanted to share everything with the fans.”
The next chapter is scheduled for December.
Now back home in Winter Haven, Berto said he’d take the next several days off from gym work, perhaps getting back into a running routine by the end of this week and then sitting down with promoter Lou DiBella sometime next week to determine the next course of action.
Former WBA champion Luis Collazo is now the WBC’s No. 1 contender and Berto’s mandatory challenger, but the Queens, N.Y. native suffered a cut in an undercard bout against Russell Jordan Saturday and his status for a bout by the end of the year is unclear.
Cotto is the WBC’s No. 2 contender, but is rumored on the verge of a rematch with Margarito for the WBA belt. Elsewhere, No. 3 contender Jackson Osei Bonsu of Belgium lost his European championship to Rafal Jackiewicz on Sept. 14.
No. 4 contender Jesus Soto Karass is the division’s NABF champion and last fought in July, while former WBC belt-holder Carlos Baldomir is ranked fifth and returned to welterweight 10 months ago after dropping a decision to Vernon Forrest for the vacant WBC crown at 154.
DiBella was quoted on Saturday’s broadcast saying he wasn’t yet ready to put Berto in against the likes of Margarito, Williams or Cotto. But predictably, Berto claimed Monday that the statement referred more to maintaining an unbeaten asset rather than thinking the fighter wasn’t up to it.
“I’m on their level, there’s no question, but he’s my promoter and he’s looking out for my best interests in terms of the business end of things,” he said. “We’re going to take our time and when things are ready to go, I’ll get those guys and get my due. It’ll happen. I know it.”
By Lyle Fitzsimmons
Forty-eight hours past the biggest win of his career, Andre Berto was still throwing combinations.
After hesitatingly claiming a place among the welterweight elite Monday using the word “young” as a qualifier, the powerful 25-year-old Floridian replied to a follow-up query with an unmistakable view of where he truly fits in.
“Yes, I think I am the best welterweight out there,” said Berto, who defended his WBC share of the 147-pound title for the first time with a wide points win over Steve Forbes Saturday night.
“I believe it, and I know that in due time I’ll be able to prove to everyone else that I’m No. 1.”
Flicking jab. Straight right hand. I’m the best.
Mssrs. Margarito, Cotto and Williams… deal with it.
“I think I have the total package when you combine speed, power, agility and the ability to adjust to any sort of style from the opposition,” he said. “I’m the first of the new breed of fighter in this weight class and I’m eager to make big fights with the rest of the big names out there.”
A convincing winner over Miki Rodriguez to win the Mayweather-vacated crown in June, Berto improved to 23-0 in a four-year career with verdicts of 118-109, 118-109 and 116-111 against Forbes - who got the shot as a reward for a game effort against Oscar De La Hoya in May.
He admitted toting nerves into the ring against the 31-year-old veteran, a former world champion at 130 pounds who’d resurrected his career with a role in “The Contender” series and was seen as a tricky foil for a foe with one-third his professional experience.
And make no mistake, trying to leave the ring with the green belt was pressure, too.
“It was mainly a fight to get me over the hump and establish myself,” he said. “Being a young champion, it’s important to get out there and have a fight and get rid of the butterflies. Now I feel like I’ve done that. I got in there with a seasoned vet and I had a dominating performance.
“I wanted to go for the knockout and I feel like I probably could have done more, but his style made me want to sit back more and be smart. It was more like a chess match than any fight I’ve had. I knew I couldn’t just go to work, because he’d make me pay for any mistakes I’d make.”
Berto’s upbringing and relationship with his father, Dieuseul, was the source of a lengthy pre-fight feature story on the HBO broadcast, giving the premium cable audience its first extended look into the former Haitian Olympian’s compelling back story.
The Berto-Forbes fight was a TV semifinal to the Shane Mosley-Ricardo Mayorga main event.
“I knew they were going to show the story and it was exciting,” Berto said. “I remember growing up and watching great fighters on HBO and learning about them, so it was kind of something that certified me as having arrived on an elite level. I wanted to share everything with the fans.”
The next chapter is scheduled for December.
Now back home in Winter Haven, Berto said he’d take the next several days off from gym work, perhaps getting back into a running routine by the end of this week and then sitting down with promoter Lou DiBella sometime next week to determine the next course of action.
Former WBA champion Luis Collazo is now the WBC’s No. 1 contender and Berto’s mandatory challenger, but the Queens, N.Y. native suffered a cut in an undercard bout against Russell Jordan Saturday and his status for a bout by the end of the year is unclear.
Cotto is the WBC’s No. 2 contender, but is rumored on the verge of a rematch with Margarito for the WBA belt. Elsewhere, No. 3 contender Jackson Osei Bonsu of Belgium lost his European championship to Rafal Jackiewicz on Sept. 14.
No. 4 contender Jesus Soto Karass is the division’s NABF champion and last fought in July, while former WBC belt-holder Carlos Baldomir is ranked fifth and returned to welterweight 10 months ago after dropping a decision to Vernon Forrest for the vacant WBC crown at 154.
DiBella was quoted on Saturday’s broadcast saying he wasn’t yet ready to put Berto in against the likes of Margarito, Williams or Cotto. But predictably, Berto claimed Monday that the statement referred more to maintaining an unbeaten asset rather than thinking the fighter wasn’t up to it.
“I’m on their level, there’s no question, but he’s my promoter and he’s looking out for my best interests in terms of the business end of things,” he said. “We’re going to take our time and when things are ready to go, I’ll get those guys and get my due. It’ll happen. I know it.”
James Toney Blasts The Heavyweights, Ready To Go
By Mark Vester
Former multi-division champion James Toney is ready to fight in December. The probable opponent is stablemate Tony Thompson, with the vacant IBA heavyweight title at stake. Toney, speaking with Ernest Gabion of BoxingScene.com, said that he would fight anyone at the weight.
"Tony Thompson is gonna be the victim. I'll come out like I did against Hasim Rahman in the rematch, who acted like a little b*tch and quit, but I'm ready to go. I'll fight em all. I'll fight a midget. If he's 200-pounds - I'll fight him. If the fight will materialize I will definitely see him and lights will be out,” Toney said.
While discussing his two losses to Sam Peter and the no-contest ruling in the recent rematch with Hasim Rahman, Toney would tell BoxingScene that today’s heavyweights are lacking an important quality - heart.
“I'm the people's champ. Everybody saw what I did to Sam Peter. Yeah I whooped him the first time, the second time he ran like a little sissy. Everybody knows what happened the first time with Rahman. I beat him the first time and they called it a draw. The second time [he said] 'I can't see, I'm not fighting James Toney with one eye,' that's bullsh*t. It lets you know right there where his heart is,” Toney said.
“He ain’t got no heart for boxing, just like the rest of these guys in the division. They have no heart. I will expose everybody out there. They piss me off, the reporters; they dogged me out, now they made me have to do this.”
Toney is focused on Thompson in December, and then he would like to fight any of the other champions at the weight.
“At the end of 2008 I'll win the IBA heavyweight championship when I knock out Tony Thompson, who went eleven-rounds with one of the sissies, one of the robot sissies. At the beginning of the year I'll defend my title and keep defending my title until I get the chance to unify against everybody else. Whether it's Sam Peter, Valuev or whether it's the Klitschkos. I'll fight anybody, anywhere at any time. I never ducked anybody before, I won't duck anybody now,” Toney said.
Over the last few years, Toney’s weight has become a major focus. Since the move up to heavyweight, his weight has jumped around and affected his ring performance. During the BoxingScene interview, Toney disclosed that he was currently walking around at 260-pounds. He wants the reporters to stop judging him on his weight, and to focus on his skills.
“I'm 260 and I look good, feel good. My weight is always an issue with everybody. Don't judge me because of my weight, I'm a heavyweight. If I come in at 275 with my d*ck hanging out, it's the real deal. You know what I'm sayin, I could fight bottom line. Judge me by my skills; don't judge me by my weight. In boxing nobody got better skills than me, period,” Toney said.
By Mark Vester
Former multi-division champion James Toney is ready to fight in December. The probable opponent is stablemate Tony Thompson, with the vacant IBA heavyweight title at stake. Toney, speaking with Ernest Gabion of BoxingScene.com, said that he would fight anyone at the weight.
"Tony Thompson is gonna be the victim. I'll come out like I did against Hasim Rahman in the rematch, who acted like a little b*tch and quit, but I'm ready to go. I'll fight em all. I'll fight a midget. If he's 200-pounds - I'll fight him. If the fight will materialize I will definitely see him and lights will be out,” Toney said.
While discussing his two losses to Sam Peter and the no-contest ruling in the recent rematch with Hasim Rahman, Toney would tell BoxingScene that today’s heavyweights are lacking an important quality - heart.
“I'm the people's champ. Everybody saw what I did to Sam Peter. Yeah I whooped him the first time, the second time he ran like a little sissy. Everybody knows what happened the first time with Rahman. I beat him the first time and they called it a draw. The second time [he said] 'I can't see, I'm not fighting James Toney with one eye,' that's bullsh*t. It lets you know right there where his heart is,” Toney said.
“He ain’t got no heart for boxing, just like the rest of these guys in the division. They have no heart. I will expose everybody out there. They piss me off, the reporters; they dogged me out, now they made me have to do this.”
Toney is focused on Thompson in December, and then he would like to fight any of the other champions at the weight.
“At the end of 2008 I'll win the IBA heavyweight championship when I knock out Tony Thompson, who went eleven-rounds with one of the sissies, one of the robot sissies. At the beginning of the year I'll defend my title and keep defending my title until I get the chance to unify against everybody else. Whether it's Sam Peter, Valuev or whether it's the Klitschkos. I'll fight anybody, anywhere at any time. I never ducked anybody before, I won't duck anybody now,” Toney said.
Over the last few years, Toney’s weight has become a major focus. Since the move up to heavyweight, his weight has jumped around and affected his ring performance. During the BoxingScene interview, Toney disclosed that he was currently walking around at 260-pounds. He wants the reporters to stop judging him on his weight, and to focus on his skills.
“I'm 260 and I look good, feel good. My weight is always an issue with everybody. Don't judge me because of my weight, I'm a heavyweight. If I come in at 275 with my d*ck hanging out, it's the real deal. You know what I'm sayin, I could fight bottom line. Judge me by my skills; don't judge me by my weight. In boxing nobody got better skills than me, period,” Toney said.