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Written by Michael Woods
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Wednesday, 29 December 2010 15:18
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Pascal told TSS on Wednesday that he wanted to properly soak in the holidays, and savor time with family and friends, before he gets back into fightgame mode, and watches the 12 rounds against the all-time great Hopkins.
'It was a great fight, really, really close, but of course I still feel I won," Pascal told TSS. "I was at home, the champion, and the rounds were close, but close rounds go to the champion. You're supposed to beat up the champion to beat the champion. I feel I did enough."
Many who watched the fight don't, of course. I was writing up the fight, so I didn't score it carefully enough to offer a firm take, but I could have seen either man get the nod, and am OK with a draw. I did come away being beyond impressed with what Hopkins was able to accomplish, less than a month away from his 46th birthday. The guy should be pondering when to schedule his annual prostate exam, and instead, he's going tooth and nail with a kid young enough to be his son. I choose mostly to laud Hopkins, and commend him for what he was able to do, and how he was able to negate Pascal, all the more brilliant when you consider he was knocked down in the first and third rounds. As instructed by Hopkins during the pre-fight hype, I choose not to denigrate Pascal, focus on what he didn't do, and will continue to shine a light on Hopkins' superiority. Interestingly, however, with his recent talk that he "exposed" and "schooled" Pascal, the wily vet is himself detracting from his exemplary showing. By saying that Pascal has been exposed, he's minimizing his own part in the outcome of December 18.
All in all, Pascal would like Hopkins to quit running his mouth, he told me.
"I knocked him down three times," Pascal said. "If he brought me to school, he's not such a good teacher. Yes, he has a lot of experience, and that showed. I'm still young, still green. If he thinks I was exposed, I really don't think so.
"Hopkins doesn't need to run his mouth to get a rematch. Stop running your mouth, of course I'll give you a rematch! Anytime, anywhere! You say, 'I got robbed,' to get a rematch. Of course I'll give you a rematch. Every time Hopkins loses, he complains. Same thing when he lost to Jermain Taylor (twice, in 2005). But because I'm Canadian and this fight was in Canada, more is being made of his complaints. Just man up, Bernard. You got to come back stronger."
Pascal isn't sure if he'll next glove up against Chad Dawson, in a rematch from their Sept. 14 tussle, when Pascal scored a TD11 win, and took Dawson's WBC light heavyweight belt, or against Hopkins. He said he's game for either, but would prefer to take on Hopkins again, because there is still so much talk about their clash. "I'd rather fight Hopkins next, it's still fresh in peoples' minds. I'm a man of my word. If I need to fight Dawson first I will. But I'd love to face Hopkins first."
Pascal dismisses the claim that his first knockdown was an illegal blow. I concur; repeated viewings on tape are at worst inconclusive. The telling punch looks like it landed on the side of the head, not the back of the head. "Hopkins is the one who came in with his head down and in," Pascal said.
Pascal said he and his team will watch the tape soon. I asked if he doesn't wonder if perhaps his strategy, lots of movement, maybe not enough aggression, wasn't the right gameplan for the Philly vet. "It was the perfect start, but I just wasn't busy enough. It's just his experience," Pascal said of the reason for the close decision. "He did it with time and experience. That was only my fourth title fight."
He does concede that he didn't throw enough, and wonders if it was just "an off night for me." He makes clear to TSS that he didn't make the same mistake we did, and underestimate the canny pugilist. "No, people were, but not me, not my team," he said. "We knew he'd be in shape, clever, a legend."
Finally, I injected my opinion into the mix, and told Pascal I'd like to see him, if he's contractually able, to fight Hopkins agin, soon. Too often fighters and suits squander opportunity by letting controversy fade, instead of booking a rematch ASAP. He pointed out, smartly, that he has fought twice in four months, so he'd like some time to recharge his body. Thus, we'll likely see some of the natural heat from the flames of controversy die off in the next couple months. This being boxing, we can be sure that new drama will arise, from woeful decisions, and Mayweather vs. rent-a-cop beefs, and what have you, so we probably won't get a timely rematch to enjoy. But hey, as long as they do it before Hopkins turns 50, I'm pretty certain the rematch will match expectations.
Did I say 50, maybe 60...LOL.
Happy holidays, TSS Universe.
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Written by Michael Woods
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Tuesday, 28 December 2010 22:46
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The couple, who lived together in Florida, married in 1952. Angelo had recently been released from the hospital after undergoing surgery to repair a broken hip. Helen, who battled infirmity with the willpower of Arturo Gatti, had gone into the hospital right around the time he came home from the procedure.
Theirs was a love story of the sweet, and oughtta-be-copied variety.
Helen, in a 2002 article, shared that they met at Madison Square Garden in New York, and that he courted her for four years before they were wedded.
"I was modeling in New York and he wasn't making much money," she said. "He was just a corner man, just a bucket boy. I'm tall, he's short. I guess it was his personality."
She used to joke that Angelo should shave a few years off when he'd brag how long they were together, because of all the time he was on the road.
We tend to think of Angelo and Ali as peas in a pod. But it was actually Angelo and Helen who were the true blue pair for the ages.
Rest in peace, Helen.
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Written by The Sweet Science
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Sunday, 26 December 2010 10:03
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Steve Farhood is a 32-year veteran of the sport. In 1980, he launched KO Magazine. From 1989 to 1997, he was Editor in Chief of Ring Magazine.
From 1993 to 2008 Farhood served as the BWAA's First Vice-President. Twice, he garnered first place finishes in the Barneys writing contest.
Currently, most associate Farhood with his role as the analyst for Showtime's popular ShoBox series. He is still very active as a writer, serving as an associate editor and columnist for the British "Boxing Monthly."
The Fleischer is the third major award that Farhood has won from the BWAA. Previously he was voted the Taub award for "Excellence in Broadcast Journalism," and the Walker award for "Long and Meritorious Service."
Farhood and the other 2010 honorees will be presented their awards at the BWAA's annual dinner banquet. The date and location will be announced in the next few weeks.
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Written by The Sweet Science
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Saturday, 25 December 2010 23:16
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As important as boxing is to me, and it is a big part of my life, at this time let us remember that there is nothing more important than family, friends, and dignity. Let us also remember those less fortunate than ourselves and fight against unnecessary violence, particularly against women.
I look forward to resuming my career in March at Madison Square Garden and hope that all my friends will join me for a celebration of the best of boxing. I wish all of you un año de maravilla. Feliz Navidad por todos.
Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez
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Written by David A. Avila
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Saturday, 25 December 2010 21:47
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Because of his technical and deliberate style Hopkins has both amazed some and disturbed other fans of professional boxing throughout his lengthy career. You either admire or abhor the Philadelphia prizefighter who’s embarking on seldom traveled territory.
Still, one and all must realize just how difficult it is to remain among the top prizefighters in the world at age 45. Hopkins has endured punches from 1988 until the present and still rates among the very best boxers pound for pound.
In boxing’s history few have been able to compete at the elite level once age 40 arrives. The list is very small. Many fighters fought past 40 but few were able to beat contenders or world champions.
Champs of Yesteryear
Sugar Ray Robinson as great as he was did not fight at Hopkins level. He was 44 when he retired and last beat a contender when he beat Ralph Dupas in 1963. At the time Robinson was 41.
The great Sam Langford began as a lightweight and was so feared he eventually fought at heavyweight and retired at age 43. Though only five-feet, six-inches in height, Langford beat numerous heavyweights including Fireman Jim Flynn. He fought former heavyweight champion Jack Johnson and lost by decision after 15 rounds. But even Langford after 256 pro fights was not beating world champions at Hopkins’ age.
Speaking of Jack Johnson the great heavyweight champion fought until he was 50 years old though few realize that fact. Through his 40s he did not lose a fight until he was 48 years old. He was 19-2-1 during his 40s then inactive at age 49. After birthday number 50 Johnson returned to the ring and was knocked out twice.
And speaking of 50-year-old prizefighters Archie “The Old Mongoose” Moore won the light heavyweight world championship and never was beaten in that weight class while holding the title. From 1953 when he beat Joey Maxim for the belt until he finally retired in 1965, no light heavyweight defeated Moore for his title. He was 47 when he beat Giulio Rinaldi in Madison Square Garden for the light heavyweight title. That is the record for oldest champion in pro boxing. However, there are discrepancies. Ring Magazine says Moore was born in 1913, while Boxrec.com say it was 1916. Moore never really substantiated which birth date was correct.
Of course we also know about George Foreman actually winning a world title at 45. That’s an incredible feat. Foreman’s knockout win of Michael Moorer to win the title was nearly broken by Hopkins last Saturday. Though the judges took that away from him history will record Hopkins performance as one of the truly marvelous moments in boxing along with Moore, Langford and Johnson.
Robert “Manos de Piedra” Duran fought deep into his 40s and managed to hold his own against younger competition that included Vinnie Pazienza, Hector Camacho and Jorge Castro. The Panamanian great was 50 the last time he stepped in the ring and lost a 12-round decision to Camacho in 2001 for the NBA vacant supper middleweight title. After that fight he was severely injured in a car accident and retired. By the way, Camacho is still fighting too. He’s 48.
Hopkins is treading on seldom traveled territory. Only a scant few have ever been able to fight champions and contenders and maintain a high level of proficiency. It’s truly remarkable and we should enjoy each time he enters the prize ring. We’re watching an amazing fighter whose success may not be repeated in a long time.
The Philadelphia boxer may be fighting in his last year. Let’s see what he can do at age 46?
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Written by Michael Woods
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Friday, 24 December 2010 11:41
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The fights were still being made, in the Top Rank, and the Golden Boy lair, OK, so maybe not the big one we wanted, but this year was still fair.
Yes, the heavyweights lacked luster, only the Klitschkos showed flair, But neither could force David Haye to take up their dare.
Lame heavies aside, there was much to celebrate, How bout we savor the work of Manny the Great?
He battered Josh Clottey, and Margarito too, Next up is Mosley, and though you've not asked us, we'd rather a case of the flu.
Indeed, maybe Mosley's shot, ready to for his career to be capped, But there's a reason we fight 'em, you can ask that Litzau chap.
As the weather gets colder, and we look back and review, There a bunch of other fighters who amazed us, and here's two.
First up, that Hopkins, that wily vet from Philly, Made Pascal look like an oldster, made the champ look plain silly.
Yes, if not for some judges who studied under blindman Van Hoy, Hopkins the graybeard would have a new belt to enjoy.
And what of another elder statesman of fight, That Spaniard Sergio Martinez, who ruined Long Tall Paul's night?
Williams threw in AC, but TSS FOY Martinez landed, It was my KO of the year, let me be completely candid.
While we're on the subject of "bests," why don't we ponder, The TSS Fight of the Year, and gaze over yonder, At the contestants for the crown, like Antillon-Soto, and Calderon-Segura,
And Martinez and Burns, who fought with an excess of bravura, Roman and Escalante featured a heaping helping of drama, Same goes for the tussle between Khan and Maidana.
Sadly, one bout doesn't leap out at me, as I assess this year's span, So I will forgo a choice, and pass to Rafael, have at it Big Dan!
Please don't hate me, pelt me with verbal snowballs, or poke me with sharp sticks, It wasn't me who messed up Showtime's Super Six!
Yes, boxing had its usual dose of woes, like promoters suing each other, And Floyd being accused of whacking his kids' mother, C'mon, let's be kinder this new year, please, smile on your brother!
TSS too got into the fray, when Kimball went ballistic, and Judd said he'd make us pay, But things cooled down, before a judge entered the fray.
As we gaze ahead, to a brand spankin' new year, We prefer to look on the bright side, soak in the Christmas cheer.
We have fights set up that feature young guns, So we can look forward to Radam's skill with the puns!
Let's not leave out Roast, and Fe'Roz, Isaiah, loyal readers to the core, who stuck by us during the relaunch, didn't head for the door.
This seems like the a good time, to pick the TSS Reader of the Year, You thought we'd forgot, heck no, have no fear, This guy added so much to the site, this is an easy pick, This man's way with words make him as treasured as St. Nick.
We're talking about Mr Sugar, not Bert, first name of Brown, His comments are stellar, the tops in TSS Town.
Town, what am I saying, this is TSS Universe!
We welcome one and all, as long as they don't curse!
Thanks have to go out to the publisher, the patron of this site, All hail Mr D, the Sweet Science's white knight!
And while we are spotlighting good folks, let's focus on our writers, The guys who illuminate the feats of the fighters.
We enjoyed the work this year from Avila, and Borges and of course, our man Bernie, Veterans who informed us on our fistic journey.
F-Lo's smart analysis often opened our eyes, Same goes for Springs and George, two stellar guys.
The Marksman covered Ward, and Euro Wooly the Brothers K, Murph didn't neglect what the old timers had to say.
Keenan's been MIA, but we hope he'll be back, Other guys rose up, picked up the slack.
Joe Rein weighed in, and so did John James, have I left out any other names?
Oh yes, my pal Bob Mladinich is as classy as they come, he's large and in charge, so you best not call him a bum!
And now we got Hauser, that's a heckuva get, I do believe 2011 will be the best TSS year yet!
Good guys with hard jobs helped us out, kept us steady, the top of the publicist heap sits Sternburg, I call him Fab Freddie.
Thanks all for returning my calls, and helping me out
, Even when you ignore me (cough cough Golden Boy), I give you the benefit of the doubt!
The hour grows late, there are presents to wrap, For Jess, Bella and for newbie Juliette, then I'll lay down for a nap, But before I finish up, and lay my head down,
Please accept my sincere thanks, to the best readers around!
Happy holidays, to one and all,
EDITOR MIKE
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Written by Ron Borges
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Wednesday, 22 December 2010 19:27
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There are many reasons why mixed martial arts have left boxing in the dust among young fans over the past couple of years but the clearest is this – UFC makes the fights its fans want. Boxing makes the fights its promoters want.
In UFC the business is about pleasing the fans. In boxing the business is about giving the business to your promotional rivals.
That is how boxing ended up with Manny Pacquiao, the best fighter in the world, matched against aged Shane Mosley, who has done nothing to win this opportunity except the thing that matters most to Arum – which is walking away from Oscar De La Hoya’s promotional company to venture off on his own.
That allowed Arum to avoid what is the better fight for both Pacquiao and boxing – a third meeting with Juan Manuel Marquez. Short of a showdown with Floyd Mayweather, Jr. there is no more compelling match for Pacquiao or for fight fans but that doesn’t mean it’s what’s best for Arum’s agenda.
Arum never wanted a Marquez rematch but not because Marquez has proven to be a clever and difficult opponent for Pacquiao. His opposition to it had nothing to do with the fact they fought to a draw in their first meeting and a controversial split decision Pacquiao victory in the second, a decision many in boxing felt should have gone the other way.
In reality, those outcomes would have been good for business, creating a compelling story line to go with the challenging nature of the opposition in a third fight. But Arum had other concerns, ones that had nothing to do with what’s best for the sport that’s made him a multi-millionaire or for his fighter, Pacquiao.
Arum’s opposition to a Marquez fight was simple and singular: he is still promoted by De La Hoya, Arum’s former fighter, and Arum does not want to do business with him.
Even when Arum was floating his phony list of potential Pacquiao opponents – Mosley, Marquez and WBC welterweight champion Andre Berto – he declared that if the choice was Marquez, Golden Boy could not be involved in the promotion. De La Hoya agree to be bought out but what that guaranteed was that the number Marquez would ask for was going to exceed the one Mosley would accept once you added in Golden Boy’s step aside fee.
Arum claimed Marquez’s financial demand was “so damn high,’’ that there was no comparison with the $5 million purse Mosley agreed to. Arum said Marquez was insisting on double the $3.2 million purse he earned when he fought Floyd Mayweather, Jr., a charge Golden Boy CEO Richard Schaefer denied while admitting that whatever Marquez was paid had to include a buyout for Golden Boy, who promoted the Marquez-Mayweather fight.
If, in fact, that total equaled $6.2 million, so what? Pacquiao would still make much more and Arum would not be forced to sell pencils on the corner. More importantly, which is the more compelling fight for the people who pay all the bills – the fans of the sport?
Which is a better sell the weekend of Cinco de Mayo: the finest fighter in the world against his long-time Hispanic nemesis or the finest fighter in the world against a 39-year-old African-American opponent who is 0-1-1 this year and in his last outing fought a lackluster draw against journeyman Sergio Mora?
Arum insists Mosley is the bigger draw because he is better known but the fact of the matter is Mosley was never a big draw even when he was the best lightweight in the world. Even after twice beating De La Hoya, Mosley remained the B side of any big promotion.
The difference is in those days Mosley could fight but he could not sell. These days he can’t do either, yet Arum convinced Pacquiao he was the best way to go because, frankly, he never wanted to go in any other direction from the minute Mosley said he was willing to walk away from De La Hoya.
This is despite the fact Arum was one of Mosley’s loudest critics after his lackluster draw with Mora in September. At that time Arum said he was not interested in matching him with Pacquiao because he was nearly 40 years old and looked shot.
But after Pacquiao destroyed Antonio Margarito (another Arum fighter) in his last outing and the possibility of a Mayweather fight continued in silent limbo, Arum announced he would seek term sheets from Mosley, Marquez and Berto and present them to Pacquiao for a final decision. Suddenly Mosley (now sans Golden Boy) was no longer an old man and a shot fighter. Now he was the logical choice because he had Mayweather in trouble (sure he did, just before the ass-whipping started) and was a victim of Golden Boy’s mismanagement for matching him against the stylistically challenging Mora.
While you cannot blame Arum in particular for the sport not getting the fight the world wants - which is Mayweather-Pacquiao - you can blame him for not delivering the next best option, which is Pacquiao-Marquez.
So once again boxing has done what it has done so often in the past, which is reward the boxer who least deserves a fight with Pacquiao. While Mosley is 0-1-1 in his last three outings and looked terrible from the third round of the Mayweather fight on, Marquez recovered from losing a decision to the far bigger Mayweather last year with commanding victories over Juan Diaz and Michael Katsidis to reclaim the unified (WBA and WBO) lightweight title.
Juan Manuel Marquez earned the right to a third fight with Manny Pacquiao by beating top opponents. Shane Mosley earned it for walking out on his promoter. That’s boxing.
It’s also why UFC is the fastest growing combat sport in the world while prize fighting exists on the margins of the sporting world, barely on life support.
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Written by TSS Press
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Wednesday, 22 December 2010 19:00
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Four thousand turkeys were distributed near King’s Deerfield Beach, Fla., headquarters, fanning out to the cities of Miami, Little Haiti, Ft. Lauderdale and West Palm Beach; over 5,000 birds were handed out in King’s birthplace city of Cleveland and in nearby Orwell, Ohio; and 3,000 turkeys were made available to those in need in both New York and New Jersey.
“Of all the traditions I have taken part in during my life, none has brought more joy to me than the spirit of giving that takes place during our annual Turkey Tour,” King said. “No matter how good or bad it is perceived to be for most Americans during the holidays, there are always people in need. It has been my experience that a turkey on the table brings families and communities together with much joy.”
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Written by Michael Woods
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Wednesday, 22 December 2010 17:11
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Looking for a great last-minute Christmas gift? Yule love this! Tickets to Montiel vs. Donaire, priced at $250, $125, $50 and $25, not including applicable service charges, go on-sale Tomorrow! Thursday, December 23, at Noon PT. They can be purchased at all Ticketmaster locations (select Smith’s Food and Drug Centers and Ritmo Latino). Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Mandalay Bay at (877) 632-7400 or Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.mandalaybay.com or www.ticketmaster.com.
Montiel (43-2-2, 33 KOs), of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, México, is only the fourth Méxican fighter to win world titles in three different weight divisions, joining Hall of Famer-elect Julio César Chávez and future Hall of Fame inductees Erik Morales and Marco Antonio Barrera. Undefeated since 2006, eight of Montiel’s last ten victories (eight were world title fights) have been by stoppage.
Donaire (25-1, 17 KOs), a native of General Santos City, Philippines, now living in the Bay Area of San Leandro, Calif., is a consensus top-10 pound for pound fighter. He enters this fight riding a nine-year, 24-bout winning streak, which includes an IBF/IBO flyweight title knockout victory of defending champion Vic Darchinyan, and a fourth-round blasting of former WBA bantamweight champion Wladimir Sidorenko in his last fight on December 4. Nine of Donaire’s last 10 victories have come by way of knockout.
Co-promoted by Peltz Boxing, Jones and Soto-Karass return for an immediate rematch of their November 13 brawl. After Jones decked Soto-Karass in the second round, Soto-Karass came back to almost pull out the victory in a fight most ringside fans and media thought could have gone either way. In fact, Jones’ second-round knockdown of Soto-Karass provided Jones the one-point margin for a razor-thin majority decision victory instead of a Draw. The judges’ scores were 95-94, 97-93 and 94-94.
Jones (23-0, 18 KOs), of Philadelphia, PA., has been attracting rabid fans to his fights in the friendly confines of Atlantic City and Philadelphia. He took on his biggest challenge on the biggest stage he has ever fought on when he tangled with Soto-Karass, successfully defending his titles and adding the vacant WBC Continental Americas welterweight title. Considered one of the hottest prospects in boxing, six of his last nine victories have come by knockout. Victories over Brazilian strongman Juliano Ramos, Henry Bruseles, ending his five-year winning streak, Hector Muñoz and Irving Garcia, have catapulted Jones to the top of the welterweight ratings. He’s rated No. 2 by the WBO, No. 3 by the WBA and the IBF and No. 4 by the WBC.
Soto-Karass (24-5-3, 16 KOs), of Los Mochis, México, boasts an impressive 13-2-2 (one No Contest) record, over his past 18 fights, dating back to 2005. The only other blemish was a sixth-round technical loss to Alfonso Gomez last year. Highlights of that period include knockout victories of former world champion Vince Phillips and undefeated contender Michael Rosales in WBC Continental Americas welterweight title fights in 2006 and contender David Estrada for the vacant NABF welterweight championship in 2008. He is currently world-rated No. 8 by the WBC.
Doors will open at 4:00 p.m. PT with the first bell at 4:30 p.m. PT. The HBO-televised fights will begin at 6:45 p.m. PT.
WORCESTER, Mass. (Dec. 22, 2010) – As he prepares to go from promising prospect to legitimate contender, undefeated Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez’ recent magical mystery tour as a sparring partner in major training camps Australia, England and Miami provided him with invaluable post graduate boxing courses.
Dominican Republic-native Rodriguez (17-0, 13 KOs), arguably the world’s premier super middleweight prospect, is coming off of a sensational performance November 5 in the main event on ShoBox: The New Generation, stopping James McGirt in the ninth round for the vacant WBC USNBC super middleweight title.
Rodriguez tuned-up for his fight against McGirt as a sparring partner for Daniel Geale (24-1, 15 KOs) during a 10-day working stretch in Australia. Geale later knocked out Roman Karmazin in the 12th round of their IBF middleweight title eliminator.
Rodriguez parlayed the Geale training camp lessons into even more career-enhancing experiences for 10 days in England with Carl “The Cobra” Froch (27-1, 20 KOs), who went on to defeat Arthur Abraham by way of a dominant 12-round unanimous decision for the WBA super middleweight crown in the Super Six Tournament. Edwin followed that by working two weeks in Miami with WBC light heavyweight champion Jean Pascal, who fought a 12-round draw with Bernard Hopkins this past weekend.
“It’s been a great experience,” Rodriguez spoke about his sparring ‘journey’ that’s brought him around the world. “I’m at the point now where I want to get where they are. I’ve learned from working with all of them but the most important lesson is that elite athletes do not put on more than 10 pounds walking around weight between fights.
“All of these training camps haven’t been too much different – they were all intense. Geale is hungry to get there (world title) and he really worked hard. All three are very good athletes. I wasn’t surprised that Carl won so convincingly because I know how powerful Carl Froch is with his style, Abraham wasn’t able to run through Carl like he had against most opponents. His training was about using his long jab to keep Abraham outside. Everything worked off the jab and Carl perfectly executed his game plan. Every time we sparred, he worked on that plan but a few times we ended-up banging. He just caught himself and went back to using his jab, not letting me – acting like Abraham – walk through like Abraham likes to do.”
Froch, after defeating Abraham, publicly acknowledged Rodriguez’ work, saying, “Sparring with Edwin was brilliant. He is very fast, can punch with both hands, and stays in there. I feel he has far more natural ability and speed than Abraham; big respect for Edwin Rodriguez because he got me ready for this.”
Next stop for “La Bomba” was Miami at Pascal’s (26-1-1, 16 KOs) training camp with Edwin playing the role of Jean’s opponent last Saturday night, living legend Bernard Hopkins, in preparation for their Showtime showdown in Quebec City.
“Training with Pascal was different than for Froch,” Rodriguez remarked. “They didn’t do nearly as much sparring, it was more tactical. Froch may have had more tactical days at his training camp but I wasn’t there until 10 days at the end. Pascal has a good trainer from Cuba, Pedro Diaz, who has had 20 Olympic gold medalists. I spent Thanksgiving with him and his family. To an extent I did what they expected Hopkins to bring to the table. What they were really looking for was competitiveness from me to help him.
“They had everything there: cooks, strength coaches, nutritionists, sports physiologists…you name it. And I got to take advantages of all these people. I can tell you that everybody there worked like animals. It was a very good training camp; well organized with everybody working hard.”
Rodriguez’ next fight is set for January 14 in Key West, Florida on ESPN2 Friday Night Fights in the 10-round co-feature against Aaron Pryor, Jr., son of former world champion Aaron Pryor.
Born in the Dominican Republic, Edwin started boxing in 2001 and he developed into one of the top amateurs in the United States, compiling a solid 84-9 record, including gold-medal performances in the 2005 USA Boxing National Championships and 2006 U.S. National Golden Gloves Tournament. Rodriguez, who has dual citizenship in the U.S. and Dominican Republic, became the first Massachusetts boxer to win the middleweight title at The Nationals since “Marvelous” Marvin Hagler in 1973.
Rodriquez is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, managed by Larry Army, and trained by Peter Manfredo, Sr.
NEW YORK (December 22, 2010) – Boxing 360 has announced the signing of WBC No. 3 rated super bantamweight Leon “Hurry Up” Moore to an exclusive promotional contract.
The 31-year-old southpaw Moore (27-2, 22 KOs), from Guyana, is the reigning PABA and WBC CABOFE super bantamweight champion, as well as the former NABA, Guyanese and CABOFE bantamweight titlist.
Another Boxing 360 fighter is Guyana super middleweight champion Lennox “2 Sharpe” Allen (12-0-1, 7 KOs) who recently defeated Nick Brinson for the vacant New York State title.
“We’re excited to sign a talented fighter like Moore,” Boxing 360 Director of Boxing Bob Duffy said. “He’s a world-class contender at super bantamweight and bantamweight. We can’t wait to bring him to fight in the United States and position him for a world title fight next year against (WBC super bantamweight champion Toshiaki) Nishioka or any of the world champions at 122 or 118 pounds.”
Moore captured the WBC CABOFE and NABA bantamweight belts in September 2009, when he won a unanimous 12-round decision against former 2-time world champion Maurico Pastrana. Last January, Leon won a unanimous 12-round decision versus Indonesia Boxing Association champion Marangin Marbun for the vacant PABA crown. In his last fight (Nov. 16), Moore won a 10-round decision against Breilor Teran in Guyana.
Other Boxing 360 fighters include USBA heavyweight champion and IBF #15 rated Maurice “Sugar Moe” Harris, 2004 U.S. Olympian Jason “Big Six” Estrada, Mike Mollo, Joshua “Juice” Harris, Emad Ali, former world champion Alejandro “Naco” Berrio, Angel “Toro” Hernandez, and “King” David Estrada.
Go on line to www.boxing360.com for more information about Moore, Allen, or any of the Boxing 360 fighters.
SPEEDBAG I trust you are as stoked as I with that big Samuel Peter may find himself in a position to obtain the right to fight another Klitschko, and get pummeled for a third time? The IBF wants Eddie Chambers to face Derric Rossy, and Tomasz Adamek to face Peter. The winners would meet, and the victor in that clash will be the No. 1 contender, and gets to tangle with Wlad. Nothing personal against Peter, but go Chambers, go Rossy, go Adamek. Two strikes Oct. 2008, stopped in the eighth by V; Sept. 2010 stopped in tenth by Wlad) against the Brothers K means you're out of the running. Or should
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Written by Michael Woods
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Wednesday, 22 December 2010 16:45
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We like to critique, and bust chops, and shine a light into the crevices, and make the roaches scatter, or at least, let everyone know that roaches are present. But we often overlook the "nice" stories that are present in the sport.
On Sunday, Ring 8, the Veteran Boxers Association which is dedicated to assisting boxers in need, guys who have given their all in the ring, but need a hand up after life scored a knockdown on them, had their annual holiday party.
It was my first time attending, and I was beyond impressed at the camaraderie, the decency, the spirit of goodwill on display at Russo's On the Bay in Howard Beach, Queens.
The organization was formed in 1954 by ex fighter Jack Grebelsky, as a branch of the Veteran Boxers Association, a national group started in 1953. Interest and attendance has risen and dropped, much like the sport's appeal, but if the crowd at Russo's is any indication, Ring 8 is in a solid space today. Which is good, because times are tough, and too many folks are falling in between the cracks. “We are genuinely dedicated to lending a helping hand to those in the boxing community who are less fortunate and may require assistance in terms of paying their rent, medical expenses, or whatever justifiable need may arise," says spokesman Tony Mazzarella.
Funds from the gala--tickets were $125--will go towards that goal. I'm told there was some tumult in the organization recently, as a longtime member split from Ring 8, and only through the work of Bob Duffy did this event come together. You would not have known it; the gig went flawlessly from my seat, which was at a table with board member Keith Sullivan, BWAA president Jack Hirsch, ex fighter Joey Gamache, as well as ace journo Zach Levin. My only beef..all these healthy freaks ordered the fish, while I had the steak. Dangit, I have a Santa suit to fit into, people.
Here's the list of those who were honored: the “FATHER/SON” AWARD – Marvis & “Smokin” Joe Frazier; “UNCROWNED CHAMPION” – Sonny Lou Volpe & Lenny Mangiapane; “TRAINER OF THE YEAR” – Tommy Gallagher; “LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT” – Lou Raino; “INTEGRITY IN BOXING” – Joe Dwyer; “BOXING PHYSICIAN” – Dr. Ralph Bohm; “AMATEUR OFFICIAL” – John Holden; “OUTSTANDING SERVICE” – Paulette Balog; “DEDICATED SERVICE” – David Yatkowitz and “SPIRIT & INSPIRATION” – Nick Charles. “Smokin” Joe Frazier, Emile Griffith, Vito Antuofermo, Ken Norton, Leon Spinks, and Iran Barkley were in attendance, and all mingled with fans graciously. Spinks especially was notable for the width of his grin; clearly Leon appreciated the nod from fight fans who don't easily forget the thrills and chills these vets bestowed upon us.
Probably the biggest news tidbit that came out of the bash was the announcement that money has been secured from the state for a New York State Boxing Hall of Fame. Thought we already had one, did you? Nope; memorabilia will be housed at the Waterfront Crabhouse in Long Island City, Queens, and an induction dinner will take place sometime next year. Sullivan, an NYC attorney, who would make Shakespeare rethink his enmity to lawyers for all the pro bono philanthropic work he does, announced the good news. He shared that Ring 8 is in a good space, as opposed to the years in the 80s when membership waned, and meetings were held over stale bagels and sludgy coffee in the back of the bartender's union hall.
Off his stint as the holder of the New York State Athletic Commission heavyweight championship--he beat Buster Mathis for the honor in 1968, after Muhammad Ali was stripped of his world title, for refusing induction into the US military--Joe Frazier was named as the first inductee.
Nick Charles, who is fighting off the ropes against cancer, and started another round of chemo last week, won a special award. His pal Steve Farhood accepted in his place and said, "Let's not forget that boxing provides all of us with family...even if it is dysfunctional." Amen.
The sunny Joe Dwyer pierced my haze--I'd been up late, and up early cause of the kiddies--when he asked the writers to emphasize the solid citizens in the sport instead of the corruption. Amen again.
Trainer of the year Tommy Gallagher tossed out the best line of the night. The trainer/film/TV producer introed his fighter, Gabriel Bracero, who won prospect of the year. He thanked his wife Maureen, and recalled their time spent necking "in the back of a '52 Chevy, where she kept saying, 'Will you stop?!' Maureen confirmed the make and model of the vehicle for me, so no one can say I don't practice due journalistic diligence, OK?
The classy and congenial Melvina Lathan charmed the 400 plus in attendance with her presentation. She spread the love to her crew, including NYSAC director of boxing Ralph Petrillo. I appreciate leaders who aren't dictators, and who aren't so self absorbed that they don't get it that the little people are indispensable to a well run operation. Classy, as I said before. She presented Mazzarella with an honorary commission badge, an honor well earned for the former NYSAC deputy.
BWAA president Jack Hirsch presented to Marvis and Joe Frazier, the 66-year-old legend born in South Carolina, and based out of Philly. The kid, now 50, was humble and charming as heck. "My father is the real champion," he said. "I just wanted to be like my dad. My desire was to bring the boxing championship back to the Fraziers, but my sister (Jacqui) did it."
SPEEDBAG A little bird flew into Russo's and told TSS that there's a real good chance we'll see Sergio Martinez defend his middleweight title in Madison Square Garden on March 12th, against Irishman Andy Lee (24-1).
---A nice touch... Ring 8 donated a table to the Wounded Warrior Project, an organization dedicated to raise awareness and enlist the public’s aid for the needs of injured service members, to help injured service members aid and assist each other and to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet the needs of injured service members.
--Want to become a member of Ring 8? Please mail a check for $25, made out to "Ring 8" to The Waterfront Crabhouse 2-03 Borden Ave. Long Island City, NY 1101
--photo courtesy Peter Frutkoff
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My deepest, deepest condolences to Angie and the whole Dundee family. May the Heavenly Angels of God's Eternal Kingdom toll the bells at the Pearly Gates as a welcome to the wonderful Hellen. Holla!