WBC 140 lb. champ Tim Bradley is set to make his initial title defense on the televised opener of Showtimes Campbell-Guzman telecast on September 13. No official opponent as of yet but the two fighters they are considering are Vivian Harris and Juan Urango.
merce77's Classic Boxing Thread, tape them hands up before you enter!!!!
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Unified junior bantamweight titleholder Cristian Mijares (35-3-2, 14 KOs), who unified two belts by outpointing Alexander Munoz May 17, returns Aug. 30 in Monterrey, Mexico, to face Chatchai Sasakul (64-3, 39 KOs), an ex-flyweight titlist who lost his belt to Manny Pacquiao via knockout in 1998. Should Mijares win, co-promoter DiBella told ESPN.com that he's talking with Showtime about matching Mijares in a unification match with the winner of the Aug. 2 Showtime fight between titleholder Dimitri Kirilov and Vic Darchinyan. DiBella said he's also talked to Kirilov promoter Cedric Kushner and Darchinyan promoter Shaw about the fight and everyone is interested in the scenario. If the fight is made, it could happen Nov. 1 on Showtime, DiBella said. He's also been talking with promoter Bob Arum about matching Mijares with Fernando Montiel in a unification bout, but he and Arum agree that it's too big of a fight not to be a main event on a major show and there are no dates left this year on Showtime or HBO. "Mijares wants to unify the division, so we can do the Kirilov-Darchinyan winner and then go for Montiel in the next fight when there are more dates available," DiBella said.
lol, damn he makes Melo look like a damn giant.
Some truly juicy matchups in that division are waiting to be made, Mijares against any of those guys is a good fight but the unification bout with Montiel is a dream match. Is Donaire still in that division? He could be another possible opponent if he still is.
LOL!! Check out James Toney's myspace page......that's one funny ninja yo!
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=158056067
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=158056067
Cotto ain't that tall...well at least to me he ain't...Melo is a forward so he is going to be at least a foot taller than dudes that are Cotto's size...
Good thing that Mosley/Mayorga fight is going to be on HBO WCB. While I do like Mosley and any Mayorga fight could end up in fireworks, that match up as a main event doesn't warrant a PPV telecast. It would have a few years ago...
Too bad David Haye can't make his HW debut in October. He will have to get himself a few fights if he thinks he can catch Wlad by late 2009. Could he become the first unified champ since Evander Holyfield that was 220 or under? We'll see...
Cotto in Vegas
WBA welterweight champion Miguel Cotto touched down in Las Vegas on Sunday night and took a special 16-wheel "The Battle/La Battala" promotional bus straight to the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino. He faces Antonio Margarito next Saturday in a major pay-per-view showdown. "I'm completely prepared," said Cotto. "I know I'm fighting a warrior in Margarito. I am right on weight. I know how important this fight is for both of us." Margarito will arrive in Vegas tomorrow after first working out in Los Angeles.
WBA welterweight champion Miguel Cotto touched down in Las Vegas on Sunday night and took a special 16-wheel "The Battle/La Battala" promotional bus straight to the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino. He faces Antonio Margarito next Saturday in a major pay-per-view showdown. "I'm completely prepared," said Cotto. "I know I'm fighting a warrior in Margarito. I am right on weight. I know how important this fight is for both of us." Margarito will arrive in Vegas tomorrow after first working out in Los Angeles.
Banal ready for Concepcion
Filipino super flyweight prospect AJ “Bazooka” Banal is all set to give the Philippines another world crown this weekend. The 19-year-old Banal will vie for the vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) superflyweight crown against Rafael “El Torito” Concepcion Saturday evening at the New Cebu City Coliseum. In an interview with “Sports Chat” hosted by this writer, Banal said he is confident he can win the crown and join stablemate Donnie Nietes, Nonito Donaire, Jr., Gerry Penalosa and Manny Pacquiao as the country’s current world title holders.
Filipino super flyweight prospect AJ “Bazooka” Banal is all set to give the Philippines another world crown this weekend. The 19-year-old Banal will vie for the vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) superflyweight crown against Rafael “El Torito” Concepcion Saturday evening at the New Cebu City Coliseum. In an interview with “Sports Chat” hosted by this writer, Banal said he is confident he can win the crown and join stablemate Donnie Nietes, Nonito Donaire, Jr., Gerry Penalosa and Manny Pacquiao as the country’s current world title holders.
Vegas Fight Week Schedule
Fight fans will have several chances to be involved during fight week festivities leading up to Saturday's welterweight world title showdown between Miguel Cotto and Antonio Margarito. Cotto and Margarito will make their official arrivals at the MGM Grand main entrance on Tuesday. Margarito will be there first at 11AM, with Cotto arriving at 11:30AM. The official weigh-in will be open to the public and will take place Friday in the MGM Grand Garden Arena at 2:30PM.
Fight fans will have several chances to be involved during fight week festivities leading up to Saturday's welterweight world title showdown between Miguel Cotto and Antonio Margarito. Cotto and Margarito will make their official arrivals at the MGM Grand main entrance on Tuesday. Margarito will be there first at 11AM, with Cotto arriving at 11:30AM. The official weigh-in will be open to the public and will take place Friday in the MGM Grand Garden Arena at 2:30PM.
Collazo wants title shot
The camp of WBC #1 welterweight Luis Collazo is protesting against the proposed WBC welterweight title eliminator request by Promoter Rodney Berman between Isaac Hlatshwayo and Jackson Osei Bonsu. "We are formally requesting that WBC #1 ranked Luis Collazo be named as the mandatory challenger to fight Andre Berto for the WBC welterweight title," wrote Collazo's manager Nirmal Lorick to WBC President Jose Sulaiman and the WBC Board of Governors. "If for any reason the board does not mandate Collazo as the mandatory challenger we should, at the least, be the first considered in any discussions in reference to any upcoming eliminator bouts. Luis is able and available to fight anyone in an eliminator for the mandatory position."
The camp of WBC #1 welterweight Luis Collazo is protesting against the proposed WBC welterweight title eliminator request by Promoter Rodney Berman between Isaac Hlatshwayo and Jackson Osei Bonsu. "We are formally requesting that WBC #1 ranked Luis Collazo be named as the mandatory challenger to fight Andre Berto for the WBC welterweight title," wrote Collazo's manager Nirmal Lorick to WBC President Jose Sulaiman and the WBC Board of Governors. "If for any reason the board does not mandate Collazo as the mandatory challenger we should, at the least, be the first considered in any discussions in reference to any upcoming eliminator bouts. Luis is able and available to fight anyone in an eliminator for the mandatory position."
Donaire is actually one weight class below Mijares, but considering that he just left Shaw and signed with Bob Arum at Top Rank it wouldn't be very hard at all for Donaire to move up to 115 lbs. and the two of them to get into the ring for that big fight either. Now that you mention it, besides Mijares against 'Hot Pants' Montiel, Mijares-Donaire would excite me the most.
INTERVIEW: CHRIS ARREOLA
Chris, how are you enjoying your victory over Chazz Witherspoon?
Chris Arreola: I'm enjoying it because right now I don't have to go and be at the gym. Next week, it's time to get back in the gym. Time to get back on track.
When can we expect you back in the ring?
CA:By late September or early October, the sooner the better for me. I just need a name, to put a face to the bag, and that's it.
We all know that Monte Barrett has been calling you out. What do you think about fighting him?
CA: He's a nice guy, I just want to say hi, how are you doing? Hope everything is going good with you. I really don't care about him, I really don't care. I appreciate that they take the time out to want to call me out. It's pretty good, thank you, I appreciate that. Monte Barrett, Travis Walker, all of them, that's good. That means that I'm at where they want to be. They're not there yet, so sorry."
Let's talk about a fight between you and David Tua. If that fight doesn't pan out, would you consider Monte Barrett?
CA: Like I've said before, I don't duck anybody. My managers tell me who to fight, I fight them. David Tua, I hope the contract gets done. I hope we get this fight done, but if not, I'll fight whoever they throw at me. I'll be ready to go.
There's been a lot of buzz about you lately. Especially since they mentioned your name on HBO as possibly the next future heavyweight champion. How do you take that as your coming up and taking these belts?
CA: I just take it in stride, I can't get too excited about it. I appreciate it, but I just can't get too excited about that. I've just got to keep training and keep my eyes on the prize. That's not the prize, the prize isn't them talking about me. The prize is the belt. When I get the belt, maybe I'll relax a little bit, but then back to the gym.
Is each fight a step up for you, until you get a Klitschko?
CA: Every fight is a step up, every fight I have to challenge myself, every fight I have to get motivated to get up and fight somebody. Hopefully, it's a big name, I'm motivated, and you guys keep seeing and better and better Chris.
Are you happy with where your career is at this point?
CA: Oh yeah, I'm very happy. I'm 24-0, you can't go wrong with that.
What would you like to say to your fans in closing?
CA: Keep watching, it's only going to get better and better. Bigger, better fights, and more exciting.
Chris, how are you enjoying your victory over Chazz Witherspoon?
Chris Arreola: I'm enjoying it because right now I don't have to go and be at the gym. Next week, it's time to get back in the gym. Time to get back on track.
When can we expect you back in the ring?
CA:By late September or early October, the sooner the better for me. I just need a name, to put a face to the bag, and that's it.
We all know that Monte Barrett has been calling you out. What do you think about fighting him?
CA: He's a nice guy, I just want to say hi, how are you doing? Hope everything is going good with you. I really don't care about him, I really don't care. I appreciate that they take the time out to want to call me out. It's pretty good, thank you, I appreciate that. Monte Barrett, Travis Walker, all of them, that's good. That means that I'm at where they want to be. They're not there yet, so sorry."
Let's talk about a fight between you and David Tua. If that fight doesn't pan out, would you consider Monte Barrett?
CA: Like I've said before, I don't duck anybody. My managers tell me who to fight, I fight them. David Tua, I hope the contract gets done. I hope we get this fight done, but if not, I'll fight whoever they throw at me. I'll be ready to go.
There's been a lot of buzz about you lately. Especially since they mentioned your name on HBO as possibly the next future heavyweight champion. How do you take that as your coming up and taking these belts?
CA: I just take it in stride, I can't get too excited about it. I appreciate it, but I just can't get too excited about that. I've just got to keep training and keep my eyes on the prize. That's not the prize, the prize isn't them talking about me. The prize is the belt. When I get the belt, maybe I'll relax a little bit, but then back to the gym.
Is each fight a step up for you, until you get a Klitschko?
CA: Every fight is a step up, every fight I have to challenge myself, every fight I have to get motivated to get up and fight somebody. Hopefully, it's a big name, I'm motivated, and you guys keep seeing and better and better Chris.
Are you happy with where your career is at this point?
CA: Oh yeah, I'm very happy. I'm 24-0, you can't go wrong with that.
What would you like to say to your fans in closing?
CA: Keep watching, it's only going to get better and better. Bigger, better fights, and more exciting.
Cotto, Margarito camps clash
An interesting scenario will play out in Las Vegas on Friday night. The main event on Top Rank's Telefutura card at the Hard Rock Casino & Hotel will pit fighters from both the Miguel Cotto and Antonio Margarito camps against each other. WBC #7, WBO #8 welterweight Jesus Soto-Karass (20-3-3, 14 KOs), trained by Javier Capetillo and managed by Francisco Espinoza (same as Margarito), will take on WBC #9 ranked David Estrada (22-4, 13 KOs), who is trained by Evangelista Cotto (trainer and uncle of Miguel Cotto). The bout will be for the NABF welterweight title.
An interesting scenario will play out in Las Vegas on Friday night. The main event on Top Rank's Telefutura card at the Hard Rock Casino & Hotel will pit fighters from both the Miguel Cotto and Antonio Margarito camps against each other. WBC #7, WBO #8 welterweight Jesus Soto-Karass (20-3-3, 14 KOs), trained by Javier Capetillo and managed by Francisco Espinoza (same as Margarito), will take on WBC #9 ranked David Estrada (22-4, 13 KOs), who is trained by Evangelista Cotto (trainer and uncle of Miguel Cotto). The bout will be for the NABF welterweight title.
INTERVIEW - Allan Green: “F*ck them and they ought to die!” - Responding to accusations of pulling out of fight with Kelly Pavlik
It has been recently reported that the super middleweight contender Allan Green 26-1 (18) turned down an offer to battle the WBC/WBO middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik 34-0 (30) due to various reasons, an accusation the Oklahoma native strongly denies.
The reasoning for the pull out, or so called pull out, from the fight were many, from pricing himself out of the fight, to bad advisement, to not making weight, etc. All which Green says are false.
In fact, Green said that since the Pavlik vs. Hopkins fight has been announced it is a safe bet the fight was already in motion and proof that he did not turn down the fight.
In this interview, Allan Green speaks out on the recent hoopla surrounding the proposed fight between he and Pavlik, enjoy.
Well my brother, we spoke today for a bit off the record and you seemed a bit perturbed with some allegations that you turned down and over priced yourself out of a fight again Kelly Pavlik. Now that we are on record go ahead and address this situation.
Allan Green: I never turned down a fight with Kelly Pavlik, I said I wanted the fight and I started training for the fight. Anybody who says that I turned that fight down is a liar and needs to be shot.
So you were offered a bout against Pavlik from Arum and your promoter Tony Holden?
AG: Man it is a long story, you read it, I was in approached with this fight and I never turned it down.
You were offered $450,000 to fight Pavlik?
AG: Yeah, which is a huge pay cut but I took it, basically I felt like I was offered that not to take the fight. I took the fight and then all of a sudden I seen this sh*t that they put on a website that I turned down the fight.
Why would they say that you turned down the fight?
AG: I have no idea, they are trying to make it look like it was my advisors’ fault, but that is stupid. I don’t know, I can’t figure it out, all I know the bottom line is that I did not turn down the fight. I don’t know what the hell is going on.
What needs to happen for this to be resolved?
AG: I am ready to fight, I am ready to fight whomever, I have a lot of legal sh*t that I need to work out again and go back through it.
Where does the blame lie for this fight not going through?
AG: The blame is really not to put on anybody, I could lay blame but I am not going to do that. As of yesterday I was told by Tony Holden if the Paul Williams negotiations did not go through I would still fight. Well, I knew the negotiations would not go through, then today I read on a website that I turned the fight down. I was like wait a minute, I never turned the fight down, I never told Bob Arum no, as far as I am concerned I would fight him. I read all this stuff and hear people going around saying that I pulled out of the fight because I could not make weight, I never pulled out of the fight.
What would you say to the ones who wrote this and are making these allegations?
AG: OK, to anybody who are making false accusations about me not accepting the fight, f*ck them and they can die, make sure you put that in there, f*ck them and they ought to die!
It has been recently reported that the super middleweight contender Allan Green 26-1 (18) turned down an offer to battle the WBC/WBO middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik 34-0 (30) due to various reasons, an accusation the Oklahoma native strongly denies.
The reasoning for the pull out, or so called pull out, from the fight were many, from pricing himself out of the fight, to bad advisement, to not making weight, etc. All which Green says are false.
In fact, Green said that since the Pavlik vs. Hopkins fight has been announced it is a safe bet the fight was already in motion and proof that he did not turn down the fight.
In this interview, Allan Green speaks out on the recent hoopla surrounding the proposed fight between he and Pavlik, enjoy.
Well my brother, we spoke today for a bit off the record and you seemed a bit perturbed with some allegations that you turned down and over priced yourself out of a fight again Kelly Pavlik. Now that we are on record go ahead and address this situation.
Allan Green: I never turned down a fight with Kelly Pavlik, I said I wanted the fight and I started training for the fight. Anybody who says that I turned that fight down is a liar and needs to be shot.
So you were offered a bout against Pavlik from Arum and your promoter Tony Holden?
AG: Man it is a long story, you read it, I was in approached with this fight and I never turned it down.
You were offered $450,000 to fight Pavlik?
AG: Yeah, which is a huge pay cut but I took it, basically I felt like I was offered that not to take the fight. I took the fight and then all of a sudden I seen this sh*t that they put on a website that I turned down the fight.
Why would they say that you turned down the fight?
AG: I have no idea, they are trying to make it look like it was my advisors’ fault, but that is stupid. I don’t know, I can’t figure it out, all I know the bottom line is that I did not turn down the fight. I don’t know what the hell is going on.
What needs to happen for this to be resolved?
AG: I am ready to fight, I am ready to fight whomever, I have a lot of legal sh*t that I need to work out again and go back through it.
Where does the blame lie for this fight not going through?
AG: The blame is really not to put on anybody, I could lay blame but I am not going to do that. As of yesterday I was told by Tony Holden if the Paul Williams negotiations did not go through I would still fight. Well, I knew the negotiations would not go through, then today I read on a website that I turned the fight down. I was like wait a minute, I never turned the fight down, I never told Bob Arum no, as far as I am concerned I would fight him. I read all this stuff and hear people going around saying that I pulled out of the fight because I could not make weight, I never pulled out of the fight.
What would you say to the ones who wrote this and are making these allegations?
AG: OK, to anybody who are making false accusations about me not accepting the fight, f*ck them and they can die, make sure you put that in there, f*ck them and they ought to die!
INTERVIEW - Edner Cherry: "I would love to fight Manny Pacquiao and Nate Campbell right now!"
The Tampa, Florida area has become a hot bed of boxing in the last few years with the emergence of fighters like Nate Campbell, Jeff Lacy, Antonio Tarver and Ronald ‘Winky’ Wright. Another fighter included in this list, lightweight Edner ‘Cherry Bomb’ Cherry 24-5-2 (12), has emerged more quietly, winning minor lightweight titles such as the WBC CABOFE (Caribbean Boxing Federation), NABA and NABF. Edner is a staple on ESPN Friday Night Fights, even winning the ESPN Friday Night Fights Fighter of the Year award in 2006, over nominees such as Delvin Rodriguez, Sergio Mora and Anthony Peterson. In his latest fight in May, Edner scored a tenth round KO of former WBC lightweight champion Stevie Johnston. The problem that Edner seems to have is the lack of top opponents willing to risk taking a fight against him. Edner recently expressed his frustration in a press release saying, "it is time for these guys to step up!"
I have interviewed Edner twice on my radio show Fightin’ Words, and have spoken to him numerous times off the air and off the record. I can tell you that Edner is one of the nicest people you want to meet in the world of boxing, a good family man and very spiritual, so I can sense the deep frustration Edner is feeling in his voice.
Edner, first let me ask you how your wife and children are doing.
Edner Cherry: My wife and kids are doing great. They are keeping me going, especially my daughter who is disabled. They really keep me going. It’s a blessing to be a parent, and when you have a child with a disability you have to take care of her all of the time. I love my wife and kids, they keep me going. My wife is always working, taking care of her and my other kids. She keeps me going. I love my wife and children and everything they do for me.
You recently released a general statement to the press regarding the lack of top flight opponents willing to risk fighting you. What prompted this release?
EC: You want a better, bigger fight and have these guys saying they are the best. You look at their records at say 27-0. These guys have not been tested. They are looking for a big fight and they want to get the big fights, but are not willing to be tested. Right now they could put me in with anybody and I can handle it. You have Nate Campbell and Manny Pacquiao getting big fights, I’m here saying I’ll fight any of you.
You named several fighters in this statement. Is there one fighter in specific that this is targeting?
EC: It does not matter right now. Nate has the title and everyone is trying to get a fight with him. He is the one I want. I want the title, so why go around it. Nate is the guy. We can be friends before the fight and we will be after the bell rings, but during the fight, he has the belts I want, so I will try to take it.
If you had your pick of the fighters you named, which one would suit your fighting style the best?
EC: I would love to fight Manny Pacquiao and Nate Campbell right now. Joel Casamayor is another guy I’d love to fight. Nate and Joel do not have much time left in their careers. Nate won the belts late in his career and will not hold it much longer. He and I would make a great fight.
In 2007, you went against Paulie Malignaggi, dropping a unanimous decision to him. He went on to win the IBF light welterweight title in his next bout. What do you think went wrong for you against Malignaggi?
EC: For some reason in that fight, I just couldn’t get off. I couldn’t get a sweat going. He was running and I had to keep starting over in my game plan. He wouldn’t stand and fight with me. He hit and moved, which was his plan to fight me, and he stuck to it. Now he has a title and I take my hat off to him for winning that title and defending it a couple of times. I really wish him the best with his career. I learned a lot from that fight. I learned to pressure guys more during fights.
Would a rematch with Malignaggi be of any interest with you?
EC: I have no idea. People ask me about a rematch with him, but I don’t know if it would be something in the works. When I fought him, I moved up in weight. I’m naturally at 135 and he is a natural 140. I would move up if it was for a belt and the pay was right. If I rematched him, he would be running around again and I’d have to go to him and put the pressure on him.
Also in 2007, you fought Floyd Mayweather Jr. protégé, Wes Ferguson twice, both ending in victories. Did you feel any interest start to build at that point?
EC: Yes and no. Some attention was given, especially after the first win, with him being a protégé of Floyd Mayweather Jr. I think his people thought if they fought me a second time, they could beat me. Edner Cherry never fights the same way twice. When I fought him the second time, in his hometown, on pay-per-view and knocked him out, people were saying “Wow, who is this guy beating Wes Ferguson, not only once, but knocking him out the second fight!” I learned to walk these guys down until they tire out, then knock them out.
In your most recent fight you scored a tenth round KO of Stevie Johnston in May. Have you had any offers come your way since that win?
EC: Not really. People are just working on things. I’m staying in the gym and training so when they tell me “This is the guy who you are fighting”, I will be ready. I am preparing myself the best I can so when the fight is here, I can be in the best possible shape.
I spoke earlier in the article about your spirituality. How big a part of your life does spirituality play?
EC: I always put God first in everything I do. He is the one who provides everything I need. Everywhere I go and everything I do, God is there for me. I make mistakes but I ask god for his guidance to help me correct the mistakes. People do not want to be around negative people. I want to show people love and respect everywhere I go so that they will look at Edner Cherry and say that I’m a nice guy. I want to continue to give God praise for everything he has provided for me. I will continue to praise God, win or lose, after a fight. He has given me the opportunity to be a boxer, and he needs thanks for giving me that gift.
Do you find yourself ever asking the Lord for guidance before or during a fight?
EC: Yes, absolutely. In life, you never ask Christ for victory, but ask for his guidance. He always has a plan and if you ask him for a victory that may not be what he had planned for you. I ask him for guidance and to protect both myself and my opponent from harm. When I fought Wes Ferguson, I talked to a friend of mine who said, “Do not ask Christ for a victory. He will provide you with what you need, and His will will be done. However this fight goes, God’s will will be done.” In life, we as humans want everything now. If it is God’s will, it will be done.
When you sign your autograph for people, you also include a bible verse. At a recent event you and I attended for Nancy Evans and Warriors 4 Christ, I witnessed you speak to two youngsters about the meaning behind that verse to them. How important do you feel it is to your youth to be involved with God and the bible?
EC: It’s very important, especially when I sign an autograph for them and write ‘Psalm 23' underneath the signature. They may not understand what it is, but they will go home and ask their parents about it, or even look it up themselves and read the verse. If they look it up and read it, they will understand the message I am trying to give to them about Christ. I write this Psalm in every autograph I sign so I can help people in their lives. I hope they will keep that autograph and when they pull it out again, they will see what I wrote, look it up in the bible and read it. They may not understand what it means when they read it, but reading over, they will understand the message that Christ has for them. Every time they read it, they will remember Edner Cherry and say “I can see why he wrote this with his autograph”, and they can grow stronger with Christ.
Years from now, when boxing is over for you and you’ve retired, what do you want people to remember about Edner Cherry ?
EC: I want people to remember that Edner Cherry was a great boxer, a good person, always took time to sign autographs and especially that I took time out to speak to children. I want to be a boxer who people will think back on and say “Edner always talked to me, not just gave me an autograph, then walked away. He spent the time to talk with me.” I want to leave a legacy that people feel is positive. God blessed me to be able to make money and be successful. I know where I came from and I want to make sure I never forget. I don’t let the fact that I may be a celebrity or that I am on TV, get to my head. I love to work and talk to kids. Anytime someone approaches me and says, “I have something for you to do with a children’s’ group”, I will be there. After all is said and done I want people to be able to say “Edner was a great boxer and person, and now we miss him in this sport.”
Do you have any final words you would like to say to your fans and the readers?
EC: Oh, my fans. I really want to thank my fans, locally and world wide, for everything they have done for me, I would be nothing without them. My fans push me to always be my best, in and out of the ring. I want to thank my wife and children, without their love and support, I couldn’t be the fighter or man I am today. I want to thank Starfight Productions, my trainer Pete Fernandez and his helper Joe Ponce for all they do for me and my family. I want to tell all of the readers that they can do anything they want, as long as they put Christ first and work hard. Believe he is in your heart and believe in yourself. If you believe in Christ, you can do anything.
The Tampa, Florida area has become a hot bed of boxing in the last few years with the emergence of fighters like Nate Campbell, Jeff Lacy, Antonio Tarver and Ronald ‘Winky’ Wright. Another fighter included in this list, lightweight Edner ‘Cherry Bomb’ Cherry 24-5-2 (12), has emerged more quietly, winning minor lightweight titles such as the WBC CABOFE (Caribbean Boxing Federation), NABA and NABF. Edner is a staple on ESPN Friday Night Fights, even winning the ESPN Friday Night Fights Fighter of the Year award in 2006, over nominees such as Delvin Rodriguez, Sergio Mora and Anthony Peterson. In his latest fight in May, Edner scored a tenth round KO of former WBC lightweight champion Stevie Johnston. The problem that Edner seems to have is the lack of top opponents willing to risk taking a fight against him. Edner recently expressed his frustration in a press release saying, "it is time for these guys to step up!"
I have interviewed Edner twice on my radio show Fightin’ Words, and have spoken to him numerous times off the air and off the record. I can tell you that Edner is one of the nicest people you want to meet in the world of boxing, a good family man and very spiritual, so I can sense the deep frustration Edner is feeling in his voice.
Edner, first let me ask you how your wife and children are doing.
Edner Cherry: My wife and kids are doing great. They are keeping me going, especially my daughter who is disabled. They really keep me going. It’s a blessing to be a parent, and when you have a child with a disability you have to take care of her all of the time. I love my wife and kids, they keep me going. My wife is always working, taking care of her and my other kids. She keeps me going. I love my wife and children and everything they do for me.
You recently released a general statement to the press regarding the lack of top flight opponents willing to risk fighting you. What prompted this release?
EC: You want a better, bigger fight and have these guys saying they are the best. You look at their records at say 27-0. These guys have not been tested. They are looking for a big fight and they want to get the big fights, but are not willing to be tested. Right now they could put me in with anybody and I can handle it. You have Nate Campbell and Manny Pacquiao getting big fights, I’m here saying I’ll fight any of you.
You named several fighters in this statement. Is there one fighter in specific that this is targeting?
EC: It does not matter right now. Nate has the title and everyone is trying to get a fight with him. He is the one I want. I want the title, so why go around it. Nate is the guy. We can be friends before the fight and we will be after the bell rings, but during the fight, he has the belts I want, so I will try to take it.
If you had your pick of the fighters you named, which one would suit your fighting style the best?
EC: I would love to fight Manny Pacquiao and Nate Campbell right now. Joel Casamayor is another guy I’d love to fight. Nate and Joel do not have much time left in their careers. Nate won the belts late in his career and will not hold it much longer. He and I would make a great fight.
In 2007, you went against Paulie Malignaggi, dropping a unanimous decision to him. He went on to win the IBF light welterweight title in his next bout. What do you think went wrong for you against Malignaggi?
EC: For some reason in that fight, I just couldn’t get off. I couldn’t get a sweat going. He was running and I had to keep starting over in my game plan. He wouldn’t stand and fight with me. He hit and moved, which was his plan to fight me, and he stuck to it. Now he has a title and I take my hat off to him for winning that title and defending it a couple of times. I really wish him the best with his career. I learned a lot from that fight. I learned to pressure guys more during fights.
Would a rematch with Malignaggi be of any interest with you?
EC: I have no idea. People ask me about a rematch with him, but I don’t know if it would be something in the works. When I fought him, I moved up in weight. I’m naturally at 135 and he is a natural 140. I would move up if it was for a belt and the pay was right. If I rematched him, he would be running around again and I’d have to go to him and put the pressure on him.
Also in 2007, you fought Floyd Mayweather Jr. protégé, Wes Ferguson twice, both ending in victories. Did you feel any interest start to build at that point?
EC: Yes and no. Some attention was given, especially after the first win, with him being a protégé of Floyd Mayweather Jr. I think his people thought if they fought me a second time, they could beat me. Edner Cherry never fights the same way twice. When I fought him the second time, in his hometown, on pay-per-view and knocked him out, people were saying “Wow, who is this guy beating Wes Ferguson, not only once, but knocking him out the second fight!” I learned to walk these guys down until they tire out, then knock them out.
In your most recent fight you scored a tenth round KO of Stevie Johnston in May. Have you had any offers come your way since that win?
EC: Not really. People are just working on things. I’m staying in the gym and training so when they tell me “This is the guy who you are fighting”, I will be ready. I am preparing myself the best I can so when the fight is here, I can be in the best possible shape.
I spoke earlier in the article about your spirituality. How big a part of your life does spirituality play?
EC: I always put God first in everything I do. He is the one who provides everything I need. Everywhere I go and everything I do, God is there for me. I make mistakes but I ask god for his guidance to help me correct the mistakes. People do not want to be around negative people. I want to show people love and respect everywhere I go so that they will look at Edner Cherry and say that I’m a nice guy. I want to continue to give God praise for everything he has provided for me. I will continue to praise God, win or lose, after a fight. He has given me the opportunity to be a boxer, and he needs thanks for giving me that gift.
Do you find yourself ever asking the Lord for guidance before or during a fight?
EC: Yes, absolutely. In life, you never ask Christ for victory, but ask for his guidance. He always has a plan and if you ask him for a victory that may not be what he had planned for you. I ask him for guidance and to protect both myself and my opponent from harm. When I fought Wes Ferguson, I talked to a friend of mine who said, “Do not ask Christ for a victory. He will provide you with what you need, and His will will be done. However this fight goes, God’s will will be done.” In life, we as humans want everything now. If it is God’s will, it will be done.
When you sign your autograph for people, you also include a bible verse. At a recent event you and I attended for Nancy Evans and Warriors 4 Christ, I witnessed you speak to two youngsters about the meaning behind that verse to them. How important do you feel it is to your youth to be involved with God and the bible?
EC: It’s very important, especially when I sign an autograph for them and write ‘Psalm 23' underneath the signature. They may not understand what it is, but they will go home and ask their parents about it, or even look it up themselves and read the verse. If they look it up and read it, they will understand the message I am trying to give to them about Christ. I write this Psalm in every autograph I sign so I can help people in their lives. I hope they will keep that autograph and when they pull it out again, they will see what I wrote, look it up in the bible and read it. They may not understand what it means when they read it, but reading over, they will understand the message that Christ has for them. Every time they read it, they will remember Edner Cherry and say “I can see why he wrote this with his autograph”, and they can grow stronger with Christ.
Years from now, when boxing is over for you and you’ve retired, what do you want people to remember about Edner Cherry ?
EC: I want people to remember that Edner Cherry was a great boxer, a good person, always took time to sign autographs and especially that I took time out to speak to children. I want to be a boxer who people will think back on and say “Edner always talked to me, not just gave me an autograph, then walked away. He spent the time to talk with me.” I want to leave a legacy that people feel is positive. God blessed me to be able to make money and be successful. I know where I came from and I want to make sure I never forget. I don’t let the fact that I may be a celebrity or that I am on TV, get to my head. I love to work and talk to kids. Anytime someone approaches me and says, “I have something for you to do with a children’s’ group”, I will be there. After all is said and done I want people to be able to say “Edner was a great boxer and person, and now we miss him in this sport.”
Do you have any final words you would like to say to your fans and the readers?
EC: Oh, my fans. I really want to thank my fans, locally and world wide, for everything they have done for me, I would be nothing without them. My fans push me to always be my best, in and out of the ring. I want to thank my wife and children, without their love and support, I couldn’t be the fighter or man I am today. I want to thank Starfight Productions, my trainer Pete Fernandez and his helper Joe Ponce for all they do for me and my family. I want to tell all of the readers that they can do anything they want, as long as they put Christ first and work hard. Believe he is in your heart and believe in yourself. If you believe in Christ, you can do anything.
HBO has given Winky Wright a date for sometime in January of 2009.
Larry Merchant's announcing spot will be filled by Max Kellerman for this week's Cotto-Margarito PPV.
Valuev-Ruiz in Berlin
Team Sauerland wins WBA purse bid
Valuev-Ruiz II will be August 30
Nikolai Valuev (48-1, 34 KOs) will fight John Ruiz for the vacant WBA heavyweight title in Berlin on August 30, it was revealed today. Team Sauerland won the purse bid in Panama with an offer of $2.100.000, edging out Universum by $100.000 ($2.000.000). “I am happy my team won and that the fight will be staged in Germany,” the Russian Giant said from his home in St. Petersburg. “Berlin is very special to me. That is where I defeated Ruiz in 2005 to become world champion. Fighting in the Max-Schmeling-Halle again will be like a home match.” After Ruslan Chagaev had pulled out of his mandatory defence against Valuev for the second time in a row, the WBA set up the clash between Ruiz (43-7, 29 KOs) and the Russian Giant, the two top-ranked challengers. “Nikolai is eager to win back his title,” Sauerland managing director Chris Meyer said. “He has gone through the full preparation twice and can´t wait to get back into the ring.” Back in December 2005, Valuev became the tallest and biggest boxing champion of all time when he closely edged Ruiz on points. Meyer is confident the 34-year-old Russian can do the same trick again. “Nikolai has improved a lot under the guidance of his new coach Alexander Zimin,” he stated. “I am sure he will beat Ruiz.”
Team Sauerland wins WBA purse bid
Valuev-Ruiz II will be August 30
Nikolai Valuev (48-1, 34 KOs) will fight John Ruiz for the vacant WBA heavyweight title in Berlin on August 30, it was revealed today. Team Sauerland won the purse bid in Panama with an offer of $2.100.000, edging out Universum by $100.000 ($2.000.000). “I am happy my team won and that the fight will be staged in Germany,” the Russian Giant said from his home in St. Petersburg. “Berlin is very special to me. That is where I defeated Ruiz in 2005 to become world champion. Fighting in the Max-Schmeling-Halle again will be like a home match.” After Ruslan Chagaev had pulled out of his mandatory defence against Valuev for the second time in a row, the WBA set up the clash between Ruiz (43-7, 29 KOs) and the Russian Giant, the two top-ranked challengers. “Nikolai is eager to win back his title,” Sauerland managing director Chris Meyer said. “He has gone through the full preparation twice and can´t wait to get back into the ring.” Back in December 2005, Valuev became the tallest and biggest boxing champion of all time when he closely edged Ruiz on points. Meyer is confident the 34-year-old Russian can do the same trick again. “Nikolai has improved a lot under the guidance of his new coach Alexander Zimin,” he stated. “I am sure he will beat Ruiz.”
My goodness, you mean to tell me that he can't get a fight this year? Wow...
He needs to get Abraham on that card, or else he's in big trouble. A fight with Felix Sturm ain't goin to cut it...I'm sorry, but the decision not to rematch Taylor was probably the biggest mistake of his career...
It would be interesting to see Chris Arreola face Travis Walker in the future...Two sluggers goin at it...
My goodness, you mean to tell me that he can't get a fight this year? Wow...
He needs to get Abraham on that card, or else he's in big trouble. A fight with Felix Sturm ain't goin to cut it...I'm sorry, but the decision not to rematch Taylor was probably the biggest mistake of his career...
It would be interesting to see Chris Arreola face Travis Walker in the future...Two sluggers goin at it...
Yeah that Arreola/Walker matchup is one I'd love to see, the heavyweight division needs more matches like that, at least it would be exciting. Yo btw, that talk we were having the other day about how they are trying to push these white fighters to the forefront...well check out this website http://www.boxrec.com/
These niggas actually have Pavlik #1 p4p, Calzaghe #2 p4p, Klitschko #7 p4p Ricky "the old man" Hatton at #13 and Miguel Cotto is ranked at #16!!!! WTF?!?!
Cotto vs Margarito HBO Countdown for thos who missed it...
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=9ZZ368KE
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=9ZZ368KE
My goodness, you mean to tell me that he can't get a fight this year? Wow...
He needs to get Abraham on that card, or else he's in big trouble. A fight with Felix Sturm ain't goin to cut it...I'm sorry, but the decision not to rematch Taylor was probably the biggest mistake of his career...
It would be interesting to see Chris Arreola face Travis Walker in the future...Two sluggers goin at it...
I gotta ride with you on this one tp, it definitely was, and deciding to take that 12th round off against Taylor was the second biggest mistake, he should've won that fight.
On a side note I just put a stack on Cotto, my uncle gave me three to one odds
If that nicca Cotto loses, I'm puttin a contract out on him and Margo.
Pavlik #1 p4p, Calzaghe #2 p4p, Klitschko #7 p4p Ricky "the old man" Hatton at #13 and Miguel Cotto is ranked at #16!!!! WTF?!?!
Wlad top 10 p4p? No wonder other boxing fans clown boxrec on the regular. Vazquez and Haye should be over him
And for your sake, I hope Cotto wins
ShoBox returns to New York City
Live on Showtime Friday, August 1st from Brooklyn
ShoBox: The New Generation returns to New York City for the first time in four years with New Jersey’s own Pawel “Raging Bull” Wolak (21-0, 14 KOs) as he puts his undefeated record on the line against ShoBox veteran Ishe “Sugar Shay” Smith (19-3, 19 KOs) in a 10-round junior middleweight bout, Friday, Aug. 1, live on SHOWTIME at 11:00 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast) . . . .
Live on Showtime Friday, August 1st from Brooklyn
ShoBox: The New Generation returns to New York City for the first time in four years with New Jersey’s own Pawel “Raging Bull” Wolak (21-0, 14 KOs) as he puts his undefeated record on the line against ShoBox veteran Ishe “Sugar Shay” Smith (19-3, 19 KOs) in a 10-round junior middleweight bout, Friday, Aug. 1, live on SHOWTIME at 11:00 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast) . . . .
Santana Pleads Not Guilty
At his arraignment on Monday afternoon, welterweight contender Edgar Santana plead ‘not guilty’ to drug charges stemming from his early morning arrest last Friday along with 11 other people. Prosecutors say Santana was involved in a drug trafficking ring that used the U.S. Postal Service to ship cocaine between New York and Puerto Rico, and that he allegedly “brokered a deal” on behalf of the main defendant, Angel Colon. According to the NY Daily News and other news outlets, an indictment unsealed Monday by the New York Special Narcotics Court refers to numerous “coded and cryptic” cell phone conversations. One of which appears to have Santana brokering a deal with a childhood friend for a kilo of cocaine in November, and another call the next day in which Colon demands payment from Santana when the friend is not heard from again (because he was intercepted by the New York Drug Enforcement Strike Force). Santana allegedly paid Colon later that evening. The charges levied at Santana include conspiracy to distribute and sell narcotics in the first degree. If convicted, the 29 year old Santana could face up to 25 years in prison. Santana’s lawyer Dan Ollen told the press: “Edgar’s involvement was zero. He’s not guilty, he’s an innocent man and we’re going to fight the charges in court!” Santana remains in police custody, and it is uncertain if the fighter’s family can meet the bail - a $150,000 bond and $75,000 in cash. However a spokesman for the boxer says that Santana will continue to train and hopes to fight a scheduled bout on August 6th on ESPN2.
At his arraignment on Monday afternoon, welterweight contender Edgar Santana plead ‘not guilty’ to drug charges stemming from his early morning arrest last Friday along with 11 other people. Prosecutors say Santana was involved in a drug trafficking ring that used the U.S. Postal Service to ship cocaine between New York and Puerto Rico, and that he allegedly “brokered a deal” on behalf of the main defendant, Angel Colon. According to the NY Daily News and other news outlets, an indictment unsealed Monday by the New York Special Narcotics Court refers to numerous “coded and cryptic” cell phone conversations. One of which appears to have Santana brokering a deal with a childhood friend for a kilo of cocaine in November, and another call the next day in which Colon demands payment from Santana when the friend is not heard from again (because he was intercepted by the New York Drug Enforcement Strike Force). Santana allegedly paid Colon later that evening. The charges levied at Santana include conspiracy to distribute and sell narcotics in the first degree. If convicted, the 29 year old Santana could face up to 25 years in prison. Santana’s lawyer Dan Ollen told the press: “Edgar’s involvement was zero. He’s not guilty, he’s an innocent man and we’re going to fight the charges in court!” Santana remains in police custody, and it is uncertain if the fighter’s family can meet the bail - a $150,000 bond and $75,000 in cash. However a spokesman for the boxer says that Santana will continue to train and hopes to fight a scheduled bout on August 6th on ESPN2.
Kessler-Haussler Update
In addition to winning the purse bid for the Nikolai Valuev vs. John Ruiz WBA heavyweight championship fight, Sauerland Event also won the rights to promote the WBA super middelweight title fight between champion Mikkel Kessler and Danilo Haussler. For Kessler-Haussler Sauerland offered $1,140,040 to top Team Palle's bid of $777,777. September 7, October 4 or October 26 in Germany or Denmark were stated as tentative dates and venues for the fight. Kessler's promoter Mogens Palle later issued a statement calling the bout a "gross and brutal mismatch" and saying he's glad he didn't win the purse bid and he hopes the fight doesn't take place in Denmark.
In addition to winning the purse bid for the Nikolai Valuev vs. John Ruiz WBA heavyweight championship fight, Sauerland Event also won the rights to promote the WBA super middelweight title fight between champion Mikkel Kessler and Danilo Haussler. For Kessler-Haussler Sauerland offered $1,140,040 to top Team Palle's bid of $777,777. September 7, October 4 or October 26 in Germany or Denmark were stated as tentative dates and venues for the fight. Kessler's promoter Mogens Palle later issued a statement calling the bout a "gross and brutal mismatch" and saying he's glad he didn't win the purse bid and he hopes the fight doesn't take place in Denmark.
Pascal says 'no' to WBO
Today’s scheduled WBO purse bid for a fight between top-rated Karoly Balzsay and Jean Pascal has been put off thanks to the Montreal’s fighter desire to pursue other interests. The scheduled bid that was scheduled for Tuesday 22nd and was to have originally been for Joe Clazaghe’s long-standing super-middleweight title, but when the ‘Pride of Wales’ announced he didn’t want to relinquish the crown he’s had for nearly eleven years, the sanctioning body accommodated him and made the San Juan Puerto Rico get-together for an “interim” title instead.
Pascals’s promoter Yvon Michel informed WBO head Francisco Valcarcel by letter Monday that the fighter was exploring other avenues. “We are anxious to thank yourself Mr. Valcarcel and the interest WBO that you showed to Jean Pascal and the timeliness that you offered to him to fight for the interim title at 168 pounds. Nevertheless, considering the international position of Jean and opportunities that currently present themselves, we took the decision to decline your present invitation."
Pascal who is rated #2 WBO, #3 WBA, #3 IBF and #4 WBC has yet another purse-bid scheduled for August in Mexico to meet Denis Inkin for the number one spot in the WBC, but at this point even that is unsure. Right now everything is hinging on this Wednesday’s fight between Jeff Lacy and Epifanio Mendoza. With the WBC title vacant it is Jermain Taylor currently sitting at number three who is in the driver’s seat. The former undisputed middleweight champ has the option of fighting top-ranked Carl Froch for the vacant belt or fighting Lacy if left-hook looks up to the test based on Wednesday’s fight. Should the two former Olympic teammates collide, it would likely be Pascal fighting Froch for the title.
Today’s scheduled WBO purse bid for a fight between top-rated Karoly Balzsay and Jean Pascal has been put off thanks to the Montreal’s fighter desire to pursue other interests. The scheduled bid that was scheduled for Tuesday 22nd and was to have originally been for Joe Clazaghe’s long-standing super-middleweight title, but when the ‘Pride of Wales’ announced he didn’t want to relinquish the crown he’s had for nearly eleven years, the sanctioning body accommodated him and made the San Juan Puerto Rico get-together for an “interim” title instead.
Pascals’s promoter Yvon Michel informed WBO head Francisco Valcarcel by letter Monday that the fighter was exploring other avenues. “We are anxious to thank yourself Mr. Valcarcel and the interest WBO that you showed to Jean Pascal and the timeliness that you offered to him to fight for the interim title at 168 pounds. Nevertheless, considering the international position of Jean and opportunities that currently present themselves, we took the decision to decline your present invitation."
Pascal who is rated #2 WBO, #3 WBA, #3 IBF and #4 WBC has yet another purse-bid scheduled for August in Mexico to meet Denis Inkin for the number one spot in the WBC, but at this point even that is unsure. Right now everything is hinging on this Wednesday’s fight between Jeff Lacy and Epifanio Mendoza. With the WBC title vacant it is Jermain Taylor currently sitting at number three who is in the driver’s seat. The former undisputed middleweight champ has the option of fighting top-ranked Carl Froch for the vacant belt or fighting Lacy if left-hook looks up to the test based on Wednesday’s fight. Should the two former Olympic teammates collide, it would likely be Pascal fighting Froch for the title.
More on Kessler-Haussler
Team Sauerland is surprised by Mogens Palle's reaction after yesterday's Kessler-Haussler purse bid. The Danish promoter had voiced his delight about not winning the purse bid for Mikkel Kessler's WBA super middleweight title fight against top-ranked German challenger Danilo Haussler, stating the bout could hurt the sport of boxing in Denmark. "If it was such an unspectacular fight, why would Mogens travel all the way from Copenhagen to Panama to join the purse bid?" asked Sauerland managing director Chris Meyer. "He should be a fair loser and accept the result. He should also honor the WBA's ratings where Danilo Haussler is the number one....We still have unfinished business with Mikkel Kessler after he defeated Markus Beyer in October 2006. Now is the time for Haussler to settle the score. We are very proud to promote this special fight."
Team Sauerland is surprised by Mogens Palle's reaction after yesterday's Kessler-Haussler purse bid. The Danish promoter had voiced his delight about not winning the purse bid for Mikkel Kessler's WBA super middleweight title fight against top-ranked German challenger Danilo Haussler, stating the bout could hurt the sport of boxing in Denmark. "If it was such an unspectacular fight, why would Mogens travel all the way from Copenhagen to Panama to join the purse bid?" asked Sauerland managing director Chris Meyer. "He should be a fair loser and accept the result. He should also honor the WBA's ratings where Danilo Haussler is the number one....We still have unfinished business with Mikkel Kessler after he defeated Markus Beyer in October 2006. Now is the time for Haussler to settle the score. We are very proud to promote this special fight."
Calzaghe-Jones postponed
The Joe Calzaghe camp has confirmed that Calzaghe has suffered an injury to his right hand that will force the postponement of his still not officially announced September 20 pay-per-view clash with Roy Jones Jr. The bout, planned for Madison Square Garden, could be recheduled as soon as November.
The Joe Calzaghe camp has confirmed that Calzaghe has suffered an injury to his right hand that will force the postponement of his still not officially announced September 20 pay-per-view clash with Roy Jones Jr. The bout, planned for Madison Square Garden, could be recheduled as soon as November.
McGirt looks to impress this Friday
James McGirt Jr. is three months removed from his last fight—a seventh round TKO loss to another boxing son, Carlos DeLeon Jr. Still haunted by the loss, McGirt has his mind set on his opponent at hand, contender Raymond Joval on ESPN2's Friday Night Fights in Saratoga Springs, New York.
A former IBO champion, Joval represents the most experienced foe to date for the young McGirt. This fight also has McGirt moving down to middleweight, where he's been on a few occasions. Fightnews had the chance to get McGirt Jr.'s thoughts on his past, present and future as his next fight looms just four days away . . . .
How is training camp going?
Very good. It's a very hard, tough training camp. I'm very confident.
You're coming off your first loss to DeLeon Jr. and right back into it three months later against your most experienced opponent to date in Joval. You didn't pick a soft touch in Joval. What was the thought process there?
We moved down in weight. We gotta get back in the ring and let the world know it was a fluke- the last fight you know? I got caught with a good shot...(sighs as if frustrated)...I don't really wanna talk about it, you know? It's part of the sport, you know?
Your dad had a loss on the way to becoming a world champion, and ended up beating the guy who had given him that loss (Frankie Warren)- for the title. What words did he have for you after the DeLeon fight?
Honestly, I don't recall his exact words. He just told me to keep my head up, it's part of the sport, that I got caught with a lucky punch. He said if it was anybody else, I would have knocked them out. I was more embarrassed than anything when I got knocked down. When I got caught with the second uppercut, I was trying to take a knee, catch my breath and clear my head. But the referee stopped it.
What do you know about Joval?
I've seen him fight before. I know he's an older veteran who comes to fight. I have to take the fight to him.
Does his age play a factor in how you look at the fight?
No, no, no. I don't look at the age man, I mean I know he's in there, he's training just like a twenty four year old and he's running just like a twenty one year old. So I don't really look at age or anything like that right now. If the age plays a factor, then thank you. But if not, I gotta take it to him.
Every fighter says they don't look for a knock out, if it comes it comes. Is your game plan to win every round one round at a time?
That's it baby! You go out there looking for a knockout, you get caught yourself. Just go in there, box, be smart, use my talent.
You mentioned that you're coming down in weight for this fight. Are you comfortable at either weight, or is this the better weight class for you?
At the time, making 168 was just too easy. I worked hard, but I didn't have to work hard (to make weight at 168). I'm naturally a big guy, but being in the ring at that weight, I looked freaking small!
I looked small compared to Carlos. Carlos put on 15 pounds (after the weigh-ins) and I only put on about 4 or 5. I was still a super middleweight, he was partial cruiserweight, or at least a light heavy.
How was making 160 for this fight? Do you feel it might be overkill or too draining?
No, I won't get that close to dying, you know what I mean? I won't say it was harder, I just had to be more disciplined. When the weight loss does play a factor in the gym, I chill out. I won't push it past the limit.
Depending on how you feel after this fight, will you remain at middleweight?
For right now. But I have to avenge that loss to Carlos DeLeon. I can't sleep at night with out it.
So in your mind, you'd like to have the chance to even the score with him?
I have to. I have to, have to, have to! There's not even a doubt in my mind. I don't care if I have to fight him in Puerto Rico, I have to fight him again.
You're part a new generation of middle/super middleweight boxers coming up who's fathers were world champions. What are your thoughts on being part of this quartet of you, Ronald Hearns, Stephan Pryor and Carlos DeLeon Jr.?
I'm very happy for them. I know what they're going through. I know just being in that ring, being in the gym, I know they always wanted to do it, be like their fathers. I respect those guys to the fullest because I know that it's harder to make a name for themselves trying to step out of their own fathers' shadows. Everybody will respect them like their fathers were respected. That's how it's always gonna be. People have asked me before if I have a problem being Buddy's son. Listen, I'm always gonna be Buddy's son. I could be a hundred-time champion and I'll always be Buddy's son.
How did it work out for you as far as stepping into this game of boxing? Were you encouraged or discouraged by your father?
He always pushed me away from it. He never let me do it. Finally, I went to college on a basketball scholarship. Things went kinda South for me in my second year of college when I didn't make the grades. So I basically started boxing on my own. I called him up and told him after I won my first tournament. He thought I was still playing basketball and I told him “No, boxing!”
Was it always in the back of your mind to try it?
I knew I was always gonna do it someday. Just being around it my whole life, you gotta at least try it.
I've been in love with it from day one.
So you really didn't get into it until your second year of college?
I was about 19.
What do you want to say to the fans who are looking forward to your return this Friday night?
Get ready for an action packed fight because I know Joval's gonna bring it, I'm gonna bring it. It's gonna be a very exciting night!
James McGirt Jr. is three months removed from his last fight—a seventh round TKO loss to another boxing son, Carlos DeLeon Jr. Still haunted by the loss, McGirt has his mind set on his opponent at hand, contender Raymond Joval on ESPN2's Friday Night Fights in Saratoga Springs, New York.
A former IBO champion, Joval represents the most experienced foe to date for the young McGirt. This fight also has McGirt moving down to middleweight, where he's been on a few occasions. Fightnews had the chance to get McGirt Jr.'s thoughts on his past, present and future as his next fight looms just four days away . . . .
How is training camp going?
Very good. It's a very hard, tough training camp. I'm very confident.
You're coming off your first loss to DeLeon Jr. and right back into it three months later against your most experienced opponent to date in Joval. You didn't pick a soft touch in Joval. What was the thought process there?
We moved down in weight. We gotta get back in the ring and let the world know it was a fluke- the last fight you know? I got caught with a good shot...(sighs as if frustrated)...I don't really wanna talk about it, you know? It's part of the sport, you know?
Your dad had a loss on the way to becoming a world champion, and ended up beating the guy who had given him that loss (Frankie Warren)- for the title. What words did he have for you after the DeLeon fight?
Honestly, I don't recall his exact words. He just told me to keep my head up, it's part of the sport, that I got caught with a lucky punch. He said if it was anybody else, I would have knocked them out. I was more embarrassed than anything when I got knocked down. When I got caught with the second uppercut, I was trying to take a knee, catch my breath and clear my head. But the referee stopped it.
What do you know about Joval?
I've seen him fight before. I know he's an older veteran who comes to fight. I have to take the fight to him.
Does his age play a factor in how you look at the fight?
No, no, no. I don't look at the age man, I mean I know he's in there, he's training just like a twenty four year old and he's running just like a twenty one year old. So I don't really look at age or anything like that right now. If the age plays a factor, then thank you. But if not, I gotta take it to him.
Every fighter says they don't look for a knock out, if it comes it comes. Is your game plan to win every round one round at a time?
That's it baby! You go out there looking for a knockout, you get caught yourself. Just go in there, box, be smart, use my talent.
You mentioned that you're coming down in weight for this fight. Are you comfortable at either weight, or is this the better weight class for you?
At the time, making 168 was just too easy. I worked hard, but I didn't have to work hard (to make weight at 168). I'm naturally a big guy, but being in the ring at that weight, I looked freaking small!
I looked small compared to Carlos. Carlos put on 15 pounds (after the weigh-ins) and I only put on about 4 or 5. I was still a super middleweight, he was partial cruiserweight, or at least a light heavy.
How was making 160 for this fight? Do you feel it might be overkill or too draining?
No, I won't get that close to dying, you know what I mean? I won't say it was harder, I just had to be more disciplined. When the weight loss does play a factor in the gym, I chill out. I won't push it past the limit.
Depending on how you feel after this fight, will you remain at middleweight?
For right now. But I have to avenge that loss to Carlos DeLeon. I can't sleep at night with out it.
So in your mind, you'd like to have the chance to even the score with him?
I have to. I have to, have to, have to! There's not even a doubt in my mind. I don't care if I have to fight him in Puerto Rico, I have to fight him again.
You're part a new generation of middle/super middleweight boxers coming up who's fathers were world champions. What are your thoughts on being part of this quartet of you, Ronald Hearns, Stephan Pryor and Carlos DeLeon Jr.?
I'm very happy for them. I know what they're going through. I know just being in that ring, being in the gym, I know they always wanted to do it, be like their fathers. I respect those guys to the fullest because I know that it's harder to make a name for themselves trying to step out of their own fathers' shadows. Everybody will respect them like their fathers were respected. That's how it's always gonna be. People have asked me before if I have a problem being Buddy's son. Listen, I'm always gonna be Buddy's son. I could be a hundred-time champion and I'll always be Buddy's son.
How did it work out for you as far as stepping into this game of boxing? Were you encouraged or discouraged by your father?
He always pushed me away from it. He never let me do it. Finally, I went to college on a basketball scholarship. Things went kinda South for me in my second year of college when I didn't make the grades. So I basically started boxing on my own. I called him up and told him after I won my first tournament. He thought I was still playing basketball and I told him “No, boxing!”
Was it always in the back of your mind to try it?
I knew I was always gonna do it someday. Just being around it my whole life, you gotta at least try it.
I've been in love with it from day one.
So you really didn't get into it until your second year of college?
I was about 19.
What do you want to say to the fans who are looking forward to your return this Friday night?
Get ready for an action packed fight because I know Joval's gonna bring it, I'm gonna bring it. It's gonna be a very exciting night!
De La Hoya: Pacquiao, Cotto, Margarito … anyone!
The Golden Boy willing to face anyone in grand finale
While the boxing world will be fixated at the upcoming battle this weekend, between welterweight champions Miguel Cotto and Antonio Margarito, one man will have an invested interest in the bout.
Oscar De La Hoya will not be particularly cheering for either fighter, but one of them could potentially be the opponent for De La Hoya’s last fight in December.
December 6th, 2008 is slowly approaching and De La Hoya is in need of an opponent to face in his grand finale. Just about anybody weighing 135 to 160 pounds would be willing to fight De La Hoya for a sizeable payday. However, De La Hoya does not want an easy pushover in his last bout.
So, it could be Miguel Cotto or Antonio Margarito. Or Sergio Mora or Felix Trinidad.
Or Manny Pacquiao.
Recently, trainer Freddie Roach made comments to the effect that Pacquiao would easily defeat De La Hoya if the two were to meet in December. However, Roach, who trained De La Hoya when the Golden Boy faced Floyd Mayweather, was chided by Pacquiao promoter Bob Arum.
Still, it is not a bout that De La Hoya would turn down.
“There is a possibility of a fight with Manny Pacquiao,” said De La Hoya, who was, both, praised and criticized in his 12-round decision victory over Steve Forbes in May at the Home Depot Center.
“In his bout with David Diaz, I expected him to win. He brought speed and strength. I feel that he needs another bout with (Juan Manuel) Marquez. The bout with David Diaz did not sell the way they thought it would.
fightnews.com“Does Pacquiao need Marquez? Absolutely.”
If the Pacquiao does not work out, De La Hoya does not name a particular fighter he would prefer to face come December.
“I told Richard Schaefer to get me the biggest fight possible,” says De La Hoya. “Whoever it is, that is who we want. There is no particular fighter. Sergio Mora is a possibility. The winner of the Cotto-Margarito fight would be a great way to end my career. There is a lot of options. I am willing to fight whomever.”
Months ago, Sergio Mora was not even mentioned in the same breath as the fighters aforementioned. But after he pulled off an upset victory over former world champion Vernon Forrest to win the WBC super welterweight title, Mora’s name is now in the mix.
Although De La Hoya has not fought at the welterweight limit since a 2001 bout against Arturo Gatti, he says he could face his fellow East L.A. rival. At a recent book signing in Los Angeles, Mora even waited in line to have De La Hoya sign a copy of his latest book.
A bout with two East L.A. fighters in a venue like Staples Center, the Home Depot Center, or even Dodger Stadium, is something that De La Hoya has warmed up to.
“Having two L.A. guys at Dodger Stadium would be bigger than a Cotto fight,” says De La Hoya. “It would be an L.A. thing to have 55,000 people. That would be amazing. It all goes back to Richard (Schaefer) doing his homework and seeing if that is the biggest possible fight for me.”
Originally, De La Hoya wanted three final bouts in 2008—but now he will have to settle for two.
After his victory over Forbes, De La Hoya was eyeing a September 20th rematch against Mayweather—he’d even enlisted the services of Floyd Mayweather, Sr., who was not in the corner of De La Hoya when he faced Mayweather Jr.
“I am disappointed because I really wanted the three bouts for 2008,” says De La Hoya.
“When he [Mayweather] retired, it derailed my plans. Now, it’s just two fights. That’s it. It is very disappointing because you hear about how fighters train hard.”
In a jab at Mayweather, De La Hoya predicted that the now-former pound-for-pound king will come back to boxing.
“Why did he do what he did? I hope he figures it out,” says the Golden Boy. “It’s sad because a lot of fighters do not plan for retirement, or they retire young and then they come back. They do not think before they retire.
“I hope he stays retired. But, I know one thing: Floyd will come back!”
In regard to his own retirement, De La Hoya makes it clear that December 6th will be the last time fight fans will see him as a professional fighter inside the ring.
“This will be my last fight,” he says. “There is no doubt about it.”
The Golden Boy willing to face anyone in grand finale
While the boxing world will be fixated at the upcoming battle this weekend, between welterweight champions Miguel Cotto and Antonio Margarito, one man will have an invested interest in the bout.
Oscar De La Hoya will not be particularly cheering for either fighter, but one of them could potentially be the opponent for De La Hoya’s last fight in December.
December 6th, 2008 is slowly approaching and De La Hoya is in need of an opponent to face in his grand finale. Just about anybody weighing 135 to 160 pounds would be willing to fight De La Hoya for a sizeable payday. However, De La Hoya does not want an easy pushover in his last bout.
So, it could be Miguel Cotto or Antonio Margarito. Or Sergio Mora or Felix Trinidad.
Or Manny Pacquiao.
Recently, trainer Freddie Roach made comments to the effect that Pacquiao would easily defeat De La Hoya if the two were to meet in December. However, Roach, who trained De La Hoya when the Golden Boy faced Floyd Mayweather, was chided by Pacquiao promoter Bob Arum.
Still, it is not a bout that De La Hoya would turn down.
“There is a possibility of a fight with Manny Pacquiao,” said De La Hoya, who was, both, praised and criticized in his 12-round decision victory over Steve Forbes in May at the Home Depot Center.
“In his bout with David Diaz, I expected him to win. He brought speed and strength. I feel that he needs another bout with (Juan Manuel) Marquez. The bout with David Diaz did not sell the way they thought it would.
fightnews.com“Does Pacquiao need Marquez? Absolutely.”
If the Pacquiao does not work out, De La Hoya does not name a particular fighter he would prefer to face come December.
“I told Richard Schaefer to get me the biggest fight possible,” says De La Hoya. “Whoever it is, that is who we want. There is no particular fighter. Sergio Mora is a possibility. The winner of the Cotto-Margarito fight would be a great way to end my career. There is a lot of options. I am willing to fight whomever.”
Months ago, Sergio Mora was not even mentioned in the same breath as the fighters aforementioned. But after he pulled off an upset victory over former world champion Vernon Forrest to win the WBC super welterweight title, Mora’s name is now in the mix.
Although De La Hoya has not fought at the welterweight limit since a 2001 bout against Arturo Gatti, he says he could face his fellow East L.A. rival. At a recent book signing in Los Angeles, Mora even waited in line to have De La Hoya sign a copy of his latest book.
A bout with two East L.A. fighters in a venue like Staples Center, the Home Depot Center, or even Dodger Stadium, is something that De La Hoya has warmed up to.
“Having two L.A. guys at Dodger Stadium would be bigger than a Cotto fight,” says De La Hoya. “It would be an L.A. thing to have 55,000 people. That would be amazing. It all goes back to Richard (Schaefer) doing his homework and seeing if that is the biggest possible fight for me.”
Originally, De La Hoya wanted three final bouts in 2008—but now he will have to settle for two.
After his victory over Forbes, De La Hoya was eyeing a September 20th rematch against Mayweather—he’d even enlisted the services of Floyd Mayweather, Sr., who was not in the corner of De La Hoya when he faced Mayweather Jr.
“I am disappointed because I really wanted the three bouts for 2008,” says De La Hoya.
“When he [Mayweather] retired, it derailed my plans. Now, it’s just two fights. That’s it. It is very disappointing because you hear about how fighters train hard.”
In a jab at Mayweather, De La Hoya predicted that the now-former pound-for-pound king will come back to boxing.
“Why did he do what he did? I hope he figures it out,” says the Golden Boy. “It’s sad because a lot of fighters do not plan for retirement, or they retire young and then they come back. They do not think before they retire.
“I hope he stays retired. But, I know one thing: Floyd will come back!”
In regard to his own retirement, De La Hoya makes it clear that December 6th will be the last time fight fans will see him as a professional fighter inside the ring.
“This will be my last fight,” he says. “There is no doubt about it.”