merce77's Classic Boxing Thread, tape them hands up before you enter!!!!

[Ready2Rumble82]

FLASH QUOTES FROM PAVLIK-HOPKINS NEW YORK PRESS CONFERENCE

Nazim Richardson: This guy comes to fight and that is good for Bernard Hopkins. John David Jackson will be supporting me in this fight. When you look at Bernard Hopkins, you are looking at a legend and you have to respect him for that. He has been through the wars and the fires. He has never been cut and has never been beat up.

Bernard Hopkins: I’m a boxing fan and I am a fan of Kelly Pavlik. I am a fan of Pavlik because he became a champion the right way. Not because of politics, but because he came up through the ranks and beat them all. I know what makes a good fight, but I never thought I would be fighting him. Kelly has a lot of heart and determination, but saying that, I’ve never been afraid of a ghost.

I believe I’m coming into this fight as the winner. People know me and boxing people know me and they know I’m a threat against anyone. I am willing to say that I am coming into this fight to win. When we get into the ring – it will just be me and him – and that means it is 50/50.

This is a blue collar fight. It’s like two guys working on a pier and get in a fight. It’s two guys fighting with their hard hats on. This is a blue collar sport – the kind of fight that could happen in any inner city – except now I’m from Philly and he’s from Youngstown.

Kelly comes in and throws the hammer down and it’s my job to take that away from him.

Pavlik has fought three times against fighters that I know of – Miranda and (Jermain) Taylor (twice). I don’t know any of the others. But I have nothing bad to say about Kelly Pavlik.

This fight is about two guys. One guy is coming forward and the other guys is looking to do his thing and THAT SPELLS ACTION.

Jack Loew: This is a great opportunity being able to fight a guy like Bernard Hopkins. This fight will take Kelly to another level. He’s a great fighter, but on October 18 it will come to an end for Bernard Hopkins. It is over for him.

Kelly Pavlik: I want to fight the best. People talk and ask about why I am fighting Bernard Hopkins. You’ve got a legend right here. I don’t know about Calzaghe – I guess I would have to shoot him in the foot to get him to stop running from me. All I can tell you is that I will train as hard as I can to get in the best shape that I can be in – for Bernard Hopkins.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Harrison vs Rogan Set For Sept 6

Audley Harrison vs Martin Rogan has been rescheduled for the M.E.N Arena,Manchester on September 6.

The former Olympic super-heavyweight champion will face Rogan in a 10-rounder.

"I’m delighted that the Rogan fight has been rearranged so quickly," said Harrison on frankwarren.tv.

"I’m looking forward to getting my career back on track, and defeating Rogan will be the perfect way of signalling my intentions."

The 36-year-old Harrison, who has lost 3 times,still believes he can become world heavyheaight champion.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Yory Boy Campas turns 37 today.

Pretty young considering he's looked 37 for the past 18 years.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Pavlik-Hopkins Philly Presser

A news conference was held today at Chickie and Pete’s sports bar in south Philadelphia today to formally announce the Saturday, October 18 light heavyweight bout between former two-division world champion Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins and reigning world middleweight champion Kelly “The Ghost” Pavlik. Hopkins, of Philadelphia, PA and Pavlik, of Youngstown, OH will fight at a catch-weight of 170 pounds. The bout, which is being presented by Top Rank and Golden Boy, in association with Caesars Atlantic City, will be televised live on HBO Pay-Per-View.

Todd DuBoef, President of Top Rank Inc., opened the news conference with an introduction. “We are proud to bring to you a great fight featuring two great fighters, the young lion, undefeated middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik from Youngstown, Ohio, and a legend, your legend from Philadelphia, Bernard Hopkins.”

Ken Condon, representing Caesars Atlantic City, stepped up to thank everyone involved in making this fight happen, and hyped the fight by stating that tickets are expected to go fast.

Mark Taffet, of HBO, spoke next. He said, “Kelly Pavlik is building the young fan base that the sport needs. Kelly always wants the biggest challenge out there, and he is taking on a legend. That is a heck of a test. I’d like to thank Kelly Pavlik. He didn’t have to take this fight, but he did.

“On the other side of the dais is a first ballot hall-of-famer, Bernard Hopkins. Like Kelly, Bernard always wants the biggest challenge. He is taking on an undefeated KO artist in Kelly Pavlik. This will be a great fight. Will Bernard Hopkins be the fighter to derail the man who is Kelly Pavlik?”

Richard Schaefer, CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, introduced Hopkins’ longtime trainer, Nazim Richardson. Nazim said, “I appreciate Kelly Pavlik’s stride, and how he has come along as a fighter. People think he is new to Philly, but I know he’s been here in Philadelphia as an amateur. Bernard was getting ready for Simon Brown. He is no surprise to us, and we know we have to work hard. People overlook his skills because of his power. We have our work cut out for us.”

Richard Schaefer then introduced his fighter, Bernard Hopkins, as “The Ghostbuster”.

Hopkins took the dais, and immediately compared himself with another legend in the final phase of a great career, pro football’s Brett Favre. “As I look at the TV, I see an old dog named Brett Favre, who, like me, still got swagger at 40. I am not the only one still standing. Don’t look for me to retire. I have a long distance deal with Brett Favre. I’ll retire when Brett Favre retires,” he joked. “Now let’s talk about boxing.”

“I this fight, we have two blue collar guys, two construction workers fighting for a sandwich after 9 hours of work. I respect what this guy [Pavlik] has done. He is my successor, and he got it [the middleweight title] the old fashioned way like I did. But I have to do my job. I am not afraid of a ghost,” he said.

“This is a hurt business, and I’ve been successful at it for 20 years. I have confidence from my last fight. But I lost, you say. People just said I lost. I am coming in with a controlled anger and confidence. Yesterday is in the past. I am not showing my age. I am a seasoned veteran who has fought every style, and has a plan to take the other guy’s best weapon and use it against him.”

Hopkins then referred to his 2001 stoppage of then-undefeated Felix Trinidad as an example. “Everyone said I was in with a killer. They were saying “left hook, left hook, left hook”, but I showed him my right hand.”

He continued, “Pavlik is known for having a great right hand, but I have one of the best defenses in the sport. The name of the game is to take what he does best and use it against him. That’s what I do best.”

Bernard then made a brief hint at retirement. “Atlantic City has been good to me. If this is my last visit, on my terms – not Kelly Pavlik’s terms, I want to put on a great fight. I am looking for Kelly Pavlik to bring his A-game. I want to fight him at his best. At the end of the day, whoever has the best game plan will win the fight.”

Todd DuBoef then introduced Kelly’s father, Mike Pavlik, and called his trainer Jack Loew to the dais.

Loew praised Hopkins, stating, “Bernard Hopkins didn’t have to take this fight, but he did. I expect him to be fully prepared. Bernard proved himself with slappy Joe [Calzaghe]. I thought he won. He has a win over Winky Wright, and has had two close fights with Jermain Taylor. We know he will be fully prepared.

DuBoef then invited Kelly Pavlik to speak.

“People asked me why I took this fight, and why fight at 170. I wanted to fight the best. I wanted to fight Calzaghe, supposedly the best fighter pound-for-pound, but there is no way we could get him. Then someone mentioned Bernard Hopkins. We train the same way for every fight. I need to be at my best, and I expect a tough fight. It is a pleasure to be in the ring with Bernard Hopkins,” he said.

“He came up the same way as me. We both fought our way up. I knocked out tough Jose Luis Zertuche and Edison Miranda. I took chances and beat Miranda. I fought Jermain Taylor with no tune-up fight, and then I fought him a second time. It was a hard road.”

Answering the question why he elected to take this fight at 170 pounds, Pavlik said, “There was no one else to fight. Calzaghe won’t fight. That [Hopkins] was the only fight I had. He couldn’t weight 160, so we’re fighting at 170. I’m 6’2” and I walk around at 176. I have to lose weight to make this weight. My punches have more snap on them at this weight, and I’m not drained.”

“A win is a win,” stated Pavlik, when asked about pressure to look good. “A win over Bernard Hopkins is great. There is no pressure on me no matter how it turns out. Boxing was down a little, and this fight is a great fight for boxing, like Margarito-Cotto was. This is what boxing needs.”

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Antillon to face Rosales

Lightweight contender Urbano Antillon (23-0, 16 KOs), of Maywood, Calif., will face Mexico’s Guadalupe Rosales (26-2, 15 KOs) in the Top Rank card televised on Telefutura, Sept. 5 at Isleta Casino in Albuquerque. A ten-round local showdown will precede Antillon-Rosales. In a battle of local southpaws, New Mexico’s top two welterweights will collide in a ten-rounder. Ray Sanchez III (21-2, 15 KOs) of Albuquerque and Joaquin Zamora (15-2, 10 KOs), who just lost his No. 8 WBC ranking due to a year’s inactivity, will fight for local bragging rights in the televised co-main. Unbeaten Puerto Rican Argenis Mendez (11-0, 7 KOs), Las Cruces, N.M. sensation Sammy DiPace (3-0, 3 KOs) and teammate Ricky Vasquez (2-1, 1 KO) are also slated to fight, opponents TBA. Tickets, from $15, are available at tickets.com or by calling 505.244.8191.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Sanchez-Zamora duke it out

Since the beginning of his career, Albuquerque welterweight Ray Sanchez III has staunchly stated that he will never fight a fellow New Mexican—unless something like a world title was at stake. But on Sept. 5, on a Top Rank/Prime Time Promotions card at Isleta Casino & Resort, Sanchez, 21-2, 15 KOs, will modify his modus operandi when he steps into the ring against fellow New Mexican Joaquin Zamora, 15-2-1, 10 KOs, of Pecos. The rare battle of southpaws, ten rounds at 150 lbs., will be one-half of a double main event card televised by Telefutura . . .

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Q&A: Julio Gonzalez



Former WBO light heavyweight world champion Julio Gonzalez (41-5, 25 KOs) is making the final preparations for his IBF Eliminator against unbeaten Tavoris Cloud (18-0, 17 KOs) on Friday night's ESPN2 telecast in Chicago Illinois. Fightnews recently had a chance to sit down and talk to Julio at the La Habra Boxing Club in La Habra, California.

How was your training camp this time around?
Good. Everything went well. Today is my last day, and I am ready.

Anything different this time?
Just in conditioning and I feel more focused.

Focused?
Focusing on knocking this guy out.

Have you seen Tavoris Cloud? Have you studied him?
I've seen him on YouTube. I know he is a strong guy a knockout artist and
I respect him for that.

He is 18-0 and five years younger than you. Any concern?
No, none at all. I'm feeling young. I'm 32 and age doesn't matter. It's just a number. But no, I'm wiser, experienced and I've fought the best. So my experience should prevail.

Do you feel this is your last chance for a title if you win Friday night?
Definitely that has been in back of my head this camp. I have been fortunate that I have had a couple of title shots and I am not letting this one go to waste. I am taking full advantage.

In your last fight against Reggie Johnson, many people think you got robbed. How do you feel going into your opponents backyard on this one?
Well everybody thought that I won that fight. Even his own fans. All except for two judges. I don't know what they were looking at. I don't know if they were on vacation, but I've put that fight behind me and moved on.

You are a veteran, having been a pro for 11 years. What is your opinion on where is boxing headed?
Boxing has never changed. It has its ups and downs. We had a couple of downs this year. But a fight like Cotto vs. Margarito really brings it back up.

When I mention your name to boxing fans, they bring up the Letterlough fight. Some call it the fight of the decade. Do you still think of that fight or have you let it go?
That's funny because for this fight I think that Cloud's is just like Letterlough. Letterlough was undefeated 15-0 (15 KOs) when I faced him, and I gave him his first loss. Cloud is another contender the comes up to bat that is undefeated with 17 knockouts.

You once told me that Vassily Jirov hit you the hardest (in the amateurs). Is that still true?
That was in the amateurs. Now I would have to say Mr. Knockout, Letterlough is the hardest [puncher]. Everything he threw at me put me down.

What would you like to say to your fans reading this today?
I first of all would like to thank my fans for supporting me through my career. Tune into this fight on ESPN2 or come on down to the Aragon Ballroom. It's going to be a tough fight with a lot of fireworks, that is what I am known for. And I don't back down!

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Peter-Klitschko Update

On a night that will electrify the boxing world, active World Boxing Council (WBC) Heavyweight Champion Sam Peter (30-1, 23 KOs) will defend his title against WBC Champion Emeritus Vitali Klitschko (35-2, 34 KOs), making his dramatic return to the ring after a four-year absence, on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, Saturday, October 11.

Immediately following the heavyweight world title fight, which begins at 9 p.m. ET/PT on tape delay, two light heavyweight champions will meet, live on SHOWTIME, when Antonio "Magic Man" Tarver and "Bad" Chad Dawson square off in a long-awaited grudge match.

"It will be experience versus youth in two of the biggest fights of the year," said Ken Hershman, SHOWTIME Senior Vice President and General Manager, Sports and Event Programming. "The boxing world is on notice for Oct. 11, and we are thrilled to deliver both landmark events in one blockbuster telecast on SHOWTIME. I give special thanks to these four world-class fighters for taking the important fight at the right time."

The Peter-Klitschko showdown will be co-promoted by Duva Boxing, K2 Promotions and Don King Productions from a site to be determined. Tarver vs. Dawson is promoted by Gary Shaw Productions in association with AT Entertainment.

Peter, 27 of Las Vegas, by way of Akwaibom, Nigeria, captured the WBC belt in his first world title fight on March 8, 2008 in Cancun, Mexico. With his trademark sledgehammer right hand followed by a sustained flurry of combinations, Peter blasted his way to a sixth-round TKO over Oleg Maskaev to claim the belt.

Frustrated in his attempt to secure a rematch against the only man to defeat him, Wladimir Klitschko, Peter will instead turn his sights to Wladimir's brother, Vitali.

"I want to send Vitali back into retirement, and then end his brother's reign as champion," boasted Peter, who will make his fourth SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING appearance in his past five fights. "I will become the first fighter to end an entire family's boxing career. Everyone is going down. The heavyweight division is mine."

Klitschko, who turned 37 on July 19, has not fought since Dec. 11, 2004, when he successfully defended his WBC title against Danny Williams in Las Vegas. In 2005, Klitschko was scheduled to face Hasim Rahman for his next title defense but the fight was called off when Klitschko injured his knee and back in training. Since then, Klitschko has run for mayor of his native city of Kiev, Ukraine, twice, including a reportedly narrow defeat earlier this year.

Upon his return to boxing, Klitschko is entitled to challenge Peter immediately for the WBC crown because he retired without suffering a loss during his reign as champion.

If successful on Oct. 11, Klitschko will join his younger brother at the top of the heavyweight division, making them the only siblings in history to hold world heavyweight title belts simultaneously. Wladimir is the current International Boxing Federation (IBF), World Boxing Organization (WBO) and International Boxing Organization (IBO) champ.

"I cannot believe this day is finally here," said Klitschko, who captured the WBC title on April 24, 2004, with an eighth-round TKO over Corrie Sanders in Los Angeles. "I am injury free and ready to take my title back.

"My brother, Wladimir, and I have had a long-time goal of being heavyweight champions at the same time. That dream will be realized when I take back what is rightfully mine, the WBC heavyweight title. The next step will be holding all of the heavyweight belts with Wladimir."

Kazakhstan's Ruslan Chagaev, who is currently injured, holds the World Boxing Association (WBA) belt.

Peter, who sports an undefeated record of 6-0 on SHOWTIME, including one win on ShoBox: The New Generation in 2004, has come of age on America's No. 1 Boxing Network.

After scoring a controversial 12-round split decision against James Toney in their first outing on Sept. 2, 2006, Peter left no doubt in the rematch four months later. Peter showed tremendous improvements in defense and movement when he thoroughly dominated Toney en route to a 12-round unanimous decision victory (119-108 and 118-110 twice) in Jan., 2007.

Peter then showed the intestinal fortitude of a world champion when he recovered from three early knockdowns against hard-hitting veteran Jameel McCline on Oct. 6, 2007, on SHOWTIME. After hitting the canvas once in the second and twice in the third round, Peter pounded away and turned the tide to secure a 12-round unanimous decision by scores of 115-110, 115-111 and 113-112.

"Vitali Klitschko almost beat Lennox Lewis, so he is surely one of the dominant heavyweights of this era," said Dino Duva, Peter's promoter. "Vitali will prove to be Sam's toughest test yet, but a dominant victory will be the first step in Peter's mission to rule the heavyweight division."

The co-main event of the Oct. 11 SHOWTIME telecast is another important fight for boxing.

Tarver, the IBF world champion (27-4, 19 KOs), is the former undisputed light heavyweight world champion and the only man to stick two losses on the professional resume of future Hall of Famer Roy Jones, Jr.

After registering a definitive unanimous decision over the defending IBF 175-pound champion Clinton Woods April 12, 2008, on SHOWTIME, Tarver is back on top of the deep light heavyweight division.

The undefeated Dawson, (26-0, 17 KOs) of New Haven, Conn., is out to prove that he is the man to beat at light heavyweight. A ShoBox alum with speed, coordination and power, Dawson is considered by most industry insiders to be the next star of the star-studded division.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

IBF Euro exec Montella resigns

Benedetto Montella of Italy resigned from his post as IBF European Representative on August 1 after more than two decades of working with the organization. Montella indicated his reasons for resigning were due to business and personal matters. "My resignation is mainly due to my first professional activity in the tourism industry, which keeps very me busy, particularly during April through October and thus not allowing me to properly follow the boxing activity. In addition, some personal and family matters have also led me to make this decision," stated Montella. President Muhammad has accepted Benedetto Montella's resignation noting, "It is with sadness that I accepted Mr. Montella’s resignation as IBF European Representative. I thank him on behalf of the IBF for more than 20 years of dedication and hard work, which the organization has directly benefited from. His efforts also greatly served the boxers from the European region. I wish him good health and much, much success in any future endeavors." Ms. Muhammad added, “ Mr. Montella did not indicate what he will do in the boxing business in the future, but I expect that he will still be involved with the sport.”

Montella was appointed to the position by former IBF President, Robert W. Lee. Benedetto Montella handled 30-40 regional titles in Europe and Africa yearly for IBF Youth, Mediterranean, InterContinental and Eastern/Western European titles. All promoters and matchmakers in Europe may now communicate directly with the IBF office.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Abraham-Marquez venue named

After his triumphant appearance in America, IBF middleweight champion King Arthur Abraham (27-0, 22 KOs) returns to face mandatory challenger Raul Marquez (41-3, 29 KOs) on October 4th at the JAKO Arena in Bamberg, Germany. It's the same venue where Abraham KO'd Sebastien Demers in May 2007 and the area where champion began boxing. "It will be a tough nut to crack," said Arthur in regard to the class of his opponent. "But I will not disappoint my hometown fans. At Bamberg, I have very special memories." Ticket sales will begin by the end of August.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Q&A: Tavoris Cloud



Undefeated knockout artist Tavoris Cloud (18-0-0, 17 KOs) is just days away from what will be the biggest fight of his career thus far. He faces former world champion Julio Gonzalez in an IBF title eliminator Friday night at the Aragon Ballroom in Chicago’s north side. The showdown will be televised on ESPN2 and has fans buzzing about the possible outcome for both the experienced warrior, and young lion alike. Fightnews.com got an opportunity to speak to cloud over the phone about his upcoming test.

Tavoris on Friday you will be facing a former world champion and thoroughly tested fighter in Julio Cesar Gonzalez. Can you tell me in regards to preparation how this fight is different from all others in your career?

Well, we trained harder and stayed focused, and that’s it. We watched tapes of his and noticed that he makes a lot of mistakes that we will capitalize on Friday.

Who were your sparring partners?

I sparred with an Olympian out of Haiti and faster guys like Vernon Paris who is 18-0 and a lot of other dudes that gave me a lot of different looks, because Gonzales is not a very predictable fighter- he is very awkward.

It is just days before the fight. Many fighters visualize any big fight many times over prior to climbing into the ring for mental preparation. Then, there are others who claim that they don’t go in with any major plan and sort of come up with a strategy based on what their opponent does. What are your thoughts at this stage of the game?

Right now I’m just relaxing and just watching TV. There is no need to be hysterical. I have been training for three and a half months and I studied my opponent very well. Some stuff will come naturally-I’m gonna have fun and let it flow.

You are definitely considered a prospect but many fight fans may not be familiar with how you fight. Can you please tell us in your own words your style of fighting?

I am a boxer/puncher that is fundamentally sound and that’s it. I can box and punch.

You are from Tallahassee, Florida, tell us why you have fought so much in or near the Chicagoland area throughout your career (11 fights).

I started with 8 Count Productions and they are my promoters and fight fans in Chicago are great. Chicago is a second home for me.

How important is it to you that this crucial fight is going to be in what can be considered as your backyard, or would this be added pressure that has sometimes backfired as it has with fighters such as Cory Spinks and Zab Judah when they lost focus during big fights in their hometowns?

None, I always put everything into my training and fights-there is no pressure.

How big of at threat do you think Gonzalez sees you?

I really don’t know. That’s all up to him. I know for myself I am a real threat to any man I step into the ring with- a serious threat.

You have never been beyond five rounds because you finish off your opponents way sooner. You’re a devastating puncher, but does that in anyway count against you for this fight? Gonzalez is a former world champion that has never been stopped. He beat Glen Johnson and has fought Roy Jones Jr. among other world champs.

Not at all, if we have to go the distance, we will do it. We are prepared for it. Our job is to go in and get the win-I don’t predict KOs. Like I said I’m a boxer puncher and if the opportunity for the KO comes, I will take it.

* * *

The winner of Friday night’s fight is in line to challenge IBF light heavyweight champion Antonio Tarver.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

TEN QUESTIONS WITH 2008 UNITED STATES OLYMPIAN JAVIER MOLINA

(BEIJING, CHINA) – The youngest member of the United States Olympic Boxing Team, light welterweight Javier Molina (Commerce, Calif.) nearly made his trip to Beijing a family affair as twin brother Oscar won a spot on the Mexican Olympic Team. Yet Oscar fell one victory short of qualifying internationally, and Javier will compete in Beijing without his twin brother.

The close-knit Molina family will arrive in China in time for Molina’s first bout and they talk often by phone. Yet Molina continues to focus on his dream of winning Olympic gold, and despite only being 18-years-old, the California teenager has remained focused on the upcoming competition. He took a few minutes prior to his second to last sparring session to share his feelings on the upcoming Olympics.

1. How are you feeling now just a couple days out from the Opening Ceremonies?

I’m excited, I’m focused. I’m trying to get every single detail of my boxing perfected so I can go out there and perform.

2. How has being on the ground here in China affected your training?

Besides my being more focused, it really hasn’t affected it that much. We are on the same schedule and we have been doing the same things we have the past couple of months.

3. What is the most challenging part of being here in Beijing?

Waiting, it seems like it has been taking forever. I guess because we came so early, I thought it would go by a little faster. It’s been taking forever, but now it’s almost here.

4. What is your favorite thing about China so far?

Staying at the Olympic Village with Olympians from all the different countries and being able to communicate with them.

5. What was the one thing you wanted to make sure you brought to China?

Nothing

6. What is a typical day like here for you in Beijing?

Wake up, go to plyometrics and get a little rest or call my family back at home. Go workout in the afternoon and go back and relax and try to stay focused.

7. Are any family and friends coming to China to support you?

My parents, three of my brothers (including twin brother Oscar), my coach and his wife, and my brother’s wife as well as another friend from the gym.

8. What does being an Olympian mean to you?

It means a lot to me. Since I was a little kid, I’ve been watching the Olympics and the opening ceremony so being in this position I’m in now, I want to make sure to take advantage of it.

9. What is your favorite thing to eat here?

Pasta

10. What can people expect to see from you when you finally take the ring at the Workers Indoor Arena?

I’m going to go in there and give it 100%, I’m going to give it my all, I’m not goiing to back down.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

MORA VS. FORREST II HEATS UP EARLY AS FIGHTERS HEAD TO TRAINING CAMP AFTER PRESS CONFERENCE VERBAL ATTACKS GET RIVALS FIRED UP FOR BATTLE ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 AT MGM GRAND IN LAS VEGAS LIVE ON HBO PAY-PER-VIEW

The second fight between Sergio Mora and Vernon Forrest is slated for September 13, 2008 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and verbal barbs are already being exchanged by the combatants. Emotions reached an early peak last week in downtown Los Angeles when the two fighters met at the press conference to officially announce the bout. After some pointed comments towards each other and an intense stare-down, there is no question that this matter will need to be settled in the MGM Grand Garden Arena ring this September.

Forrest started the banter with some choice words for the champion, "Mora won the first battle, but I'm going to win the war," said Forrest. "I give him credit for beating me when I was at 45 percent of my ability. On September 13th, we'll see what he can do with 100 percent of Vernon Forrest. For anyone who can't wait that long, I'll cut out the suspense – Mora doesn't go 12 rounds with me in the rematch."

Mora, who maintained his composure, responded to Forrest's taunts. "I'm disappointed that Forrest has made this a personal battle, but that will make things even worse for him on fight night," said Mora. "I was just going to beat him, but now I'm going to have to punish him to show him that my first win wasn't a fluke. I'm the Super Welterweight Champion of the World and undefeated…that's not going to change on September 13th."

In their first fight on June 7, 2008, Mora, the young star and winner of the first season of the hit series 'The Contender', achieved a lifelong dream by winning his first world title via a hard-fought majority decision over Forrest. The result was an upset and one which led both fighters to this rematch, a high stakes battle pitting a young champion on the rise against a former two-division champion looking for revenge. A win for Mora proves that he is no one-hit wonder, while a loss for Forrest could be devastating to his storied career. It's the type of high-risk fight fans long for, and these two world-class athletes are ready to leave it all in the ring in order to give it to them.

"Their first fight was high drama and I expect even more drama and fireworks the second time around," said Jeff Wald, of Tournament of Contenders, Mora's promoter. "Sergio is a different fighter since he won the title and even though I know Vernon will be coming out with all guns blazing, I don't see Sergio losing for a long, long time."

Gary Shaw, Forrest's promoter responded, "Vernon Forrest is one of the finest boxers of this era, and he will show why on September 13th. Sergio Mora is a fine young fighter, but Vernon is on another level than he is and we will see him at his spectacular best in this rematch."

Mora-Forrest II is the co-feature bout to the world lightweight championship showdown between Joel Casamayor vs. Juan Manuel Marquez. The fight is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Tournament of Contenders, Gary Shaw Productions and Fight Knight, LLC. The world title bout will take place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and will be distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View, beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

TEN QUESTIONS WITH '07 WORLD CHAMPION / '08 OLYMPIAN DEMETRIUS ANDRADE

Welterweight Demetrius Andrade (Providence, R.I.) has heard the sound of the United States national anthem playing in honor of his gold medal once before, winning a world title at the 2007 World Championships in October. He hopes to hear that sound once again, this time at the Olympic Games. Andrade and his eight Olympic teammates completed their final pre-draw training session on Thursday at Beijing Normal University. The team will now wait for the results of the Olympic draw, which will take place on Friday at 11 a.m. Beijing time. Following his afternoon training session, Andrade took a few minutes to share his feelings about the upcoming Olympic Games and going into the event as the man to beat.


1. How are you feeling now just a few days out from the Opening Ceremonies?

I’m feeling good, I’m feeling great. I’m ready to put the pedal to the metal.

2. How has being on the ground here in China affected your training?

It has made me even hungrier.

3. What is the most challenging part of being here in Beijing?

Just communication with my family back home but other than, everything’s all right.

4. What is your favorite thing about China so far?

I’ve been here before so seeing new things – the Great Wall, the silk market, and seeing other Olympians.

5. What was the one thing you wanted to make sure you brought to China?

Just my heart and soul

6. Are you coming in with a different attitude as the favorite?

I’m coming in with a different attitude, a meaner attitude. I have the gold medal and they’re trying to take it away from me. I can’t let that happen.

7. Are any family and friends coming to China to support you?

My dad and whoever he brings

8. What does being an Olympian mean to you?

Now it means everything. As the day gets closer, you start to understand what the true meaning of being an Olympian. It’s bigger than just you.

9. What is your favorite thing to eat here?

McDonalds

10. What can people expect to see from you when you finally take the ring at the Workers Indoor Arena?

Animal, I’m just going to be an animal in there. I can’t slack on one punch because every fight could be your last.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Manfredo fighting for love of sport and another world title shot

August Annihilation” August 22 at Twin River Events Center, RI

PROVIDENCE (August 7, 2008) – World super middleweight title challenger “The Pride of Providence” Peter Manfredo, Jr., star of The Contender Season One, is finally at peace with himself in boxing as he prepares to fight Donny “The Savage” McCrary (24-7-2, 13 KOs), star of The Contender Season Three, on Friday night, August 22 in the 12-round main event for the NABF Interim super middleweight title, headlining “August Annihilator” at Twin River Events Center in Lincoln, Rhode Island.

“August Annihilator,” part of the “Budweiser Night at the Fights” series, is promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc. (CES), in association with Twin River, Budweiser, The Tournament of Contenders, and CN8, The Comcast Network.

The show will be taped live and air Saturday, August 23 at 7:30 PM/ET on CN8, The Comcast Network as well as Cox Sports Television.

Manfredo (30-5, 15 KOs), rated No. 20 by the WBC, is now fighting for the love of the sport and he’s looking at his Aug. 22nd fight against McCrary as a stepping stone to reach his final goal in boxing. His one world title fight against Joe Calzaghe ended in controversy when the referee prematurely stopped the fight and his road back to another possible championship bout was derailed when he lost a lackluster decision to former title-holder Jeff lacy.

“I’ve accomplished a lot in boxing,” Manfredo said, “but I have one more goal and that’s to win a world championship. I want one last shot. I watched Andre Berto and Sergio Mora become world champions and I know I can, too. I have a game plan: destroy McCrary and get a fight against somebody like Sakio Biko, rated No. 8 by The Ring magazine. I’d really like a rematch against Jeff Lacy – I blew that fight – but I doubt I’ll get that. (Joe) Calzaghe is giving up his super middleweight belts and I’d like to fight Carl Froch or Mikkel Kessler next year for a world title. They’re not superman; they’re good, not great.

“I’m having fun again. Before, I hated going to the gym to train, but I did it because it was my job and I needed the money for my family. I always liked to fight and the thrill of the fans, but I’m married with three kids and I didn’t like leaving them for long periods of time (like training camp in Los Angeles). I also love to eat and couldn’t. I wasn’t able to plan family trips, either. But the Lacy fight really woke me up. I blew it. I’m training at home now, not away from my family. We’re having a great camp – me, Jessie Brinkley, Edwin Rodriguez and a couple of amateurs. Now, I love going to the gym, every day. I work hard and then go home to my wife and kids. I can’t really explain why. Maybe it’s because I’m more mature. But I know that I’m fighting because I love boxing.”

Manfredo is a rare breed today in boxing: he has a huge, growing fan-base that transcends New England because of the exposure he received on The Contender, which also showed the public his vast skills, valuable experience, affable personality and true character.

“Peter Manfredo, Jr. is all about what boxing should really be,” promoter Jimmy Burchfield explained. “He’s a gentleman, in and out of the ring, as well as a family man who ordinary people easily relate to. He’s one of the few fighters today who is a throwback to the old days around here when Vinny Paz fought. The biggest thing I see now is his desire to please his family, friends and fans. What he really wants is a world title. His fight for the NABF Interim title is a step in the process towards another world title fight for Peter. Today, the money and more and more champions are in Europe. Peter has the ability to bring a belt back here to the United States. Little girls, housewives….everywhere he goes people want to meet him, get his autograph, or pose with him for a picture. Peter is that rare boxer who is popular, not just in boxing, but in mainstream America. He continues to expand markets for himself and boxing in general, which, most certainly, is what boxing needs now.”

In the co-feature, former USNBC and IBF Intercontinental super middleweight champion Joey “KO Kid” Spina (22-1-1, 15 KOs), also fighting out of Providence, meets former IBC Americas heavyweight title-holder Jim “Steel Chin” Strohl (27-6, 21 KOs), of Las Vegas, in a six-round bout.

On the undercard in a pair of six-round super middleweight matches, Rhode Island super middleweight Angel Camacho, Jr. (10-0, 4 KOs) tests his unbeaten record against Brooklyn’s Ariel Espinal (6-3-2, 2 KOs), while Providence favorite Richard “Bobo The Bull” Starnino (9-4-1, 2 KOs) takes on Lowell (MA) brawler “Irish” Joey McCreedy (8-2, 5 KOs) in an old fashioned throw-down.

Also on the undercard card is undefeated middleweight prospect Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez (7-0, 5 KOs), former two-time U.S. national amateur champion out of Worcester (MA), facing Marcus “Team Savior” Upshaw (8-2, 3 KOs) in a six-round bout. Providence junior welterweight Jesus Caro (1-0, 1 KO) squares off against Larry Foster (0-3) in a four rounder.

Fighting opponents to be determined are the two newest members of Team CES, featherweight Sandy “Lil’ Tyson” Tsagouris (7-1, 3 KOs), former world title challenger, and Providence junior lightweight Omar Pena making his pro debut. All bouts and fighters are subject to change.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Freddie Curiel (18-7-2), part of the Contender Season Two, travels to London to fight junior middleweight Anthony Small (19-1, 13 KOs), headlining Frank Warren's Fourth Annual DebRA charity dinner on September 12 at the Grosvenor House Hotel.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Calzaghe-Jones November 8

Joe Calzaghe vs. Roy Jones has been officially rescheduled for November 8 at the Mecca of Boxing, Madison Square Garden in New York City. The superfight, originally scheduled for September 20, was postponed due to an injury suffered by Calzaghe during training. Calzaghe vs. Jones, presented by Square Ring, Inc. and Calzaghe Promotions in association with Madison Square Garden, will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Margarito, Cotto clean

After Antonio Margarito's superman-like performance against Miguel Cotto on July 26, there were rumors swirling around (mostly from Puerto Rico) that Margarito had used steriods or banned substances. However, those rumors have now been quashed by the Nevada State Athletic Commission, which has confirmed that both Margarito and Cotto passed all pre- and post-tests.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Looks like people jumped the gun in reporting that Clottey suffered a torn bicep in his fight with Judah. Doc has cleared him to start training for his next fight.

Speaking of which, Bob Arum has begun preliminary talk with the execs at Dodger Stadium in LA to host a November 1st unification bout between Margarito and Clottey.

Sources say the undercard could feature the rematch between Julio Cesar Chavez Jr and Matt Vanda and the likes of WBO featherweight belt-holder Steven Luevano and IBF flyweight titlist Nonito Donaire.

But Margarito, who's still basking in the glow of his victory over Miguel Cotto on July 26th, was also mentioned as a possible opponent for Oscar De La Hoya's supposed swan song on December 6th, along with Manny Pacquiao, by Arum in his meetings with Golden Boy Promotions CEO Richard Schaefer.

"I had very productive meetings with Schaefer. Oscar is coming in next week, Schaefer's going to sit down with him and we'll take it from there," Arum said. "I'm not going to discuss what happened at the meeting except that everything was productive. It was very productive and very businesslike."

Arum still has to talk with Pacquiao, who is currently in Beijing, China, where he will be carrying the Filipino flag at the opening ceremonies for the Olympic Games.

As for the timetable for a decision to be made by Golden Boy, Arum says, "They'll make it next week, no hurry. I can't do anything myself as far as Manny because he's in Beijing. He'll be back on Monday also."

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

When asked how the Margarito-Cotto fight performed on pay-per-view, Arum said while there were no concrete numbers, "It's north of 450,000 and maybe a little south of 500,000."

Considering that Cotto's previous best as a pay-per-view headliner was 360,000 (against Shane Mosley last November) and Margarito had never headlined a major pay-per-view, this has to be considered a success.

"It's a home run, I don't know if it's a grand slam, but it's a home run," said Arum. "It exceeded our expectations and for once it justified the fight. In other words, I knew it was going to be a great fight, the fans realized that and bought it."

 

[merce77]

Yory Boy Campas turns 37 today.

Pretty young considering he's looked 37 for the past 18 years.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Ruiz: I don't hold, they do

Two-time WBA heavyweight champion John "The Quietman" Ruiz (43-7-1, 29 KOs), often has been criticized for his unpopular "clutch-and-grab" style, has issued a challenge to his media critics. "The Quietman" says with head trainer Manny Siaca, Sr. in his corner he has returned to the aggressive fighter he says he was when he first won the heavyweight title in 2001, but no one in the U.S. has seen it because Ruiz' last four fights have not been televised in the United States. "It's sad to say but right after my last fight against (Jameel) McCline, a reporter asked me about me going back to holding my opponent," Ruiz said. "It's easy for them to say that because they think that's my style. There are two fighters in the ring and I wasn't the one holding. Reporters are just used it, I guess, but I'm challenging them to a bet. They can watch my last fight against McCline, as well as my first against Valuev, and then we can make a bet about who will hold more, me or Valuev. It can be by the round, or the entire fight; so much money per hold (differential), or a flat rate. If I hold more, I'll make a donation to the charity of the reporter's choice; if Valuev holds more, the reporter has to make a donation to my charity. They can have as many reporters as they want betting for whatever amount they can choose. I'm giving them a chance to put their money where their mouths are. Then, finally, they will realize that I don't fight like I used to; no more clutching and grabbing for me."

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Greenberg vs Boswell

H&B Boxing today announced an interesting heavyweight matchup between unbeaten Roman Greenberg (27-0, 18 KOs and Cedric Boswell (27-1, 21 KOs) to be held at the Center Stage in Atlanta GA on August 29th. The bout will be a twelve-rounder for the IBF North American heavyweight championship. Greenberg, no stranger to fighting away from home as he has boxed in 3 different countries, will be coming into Boswell's hometown for the match.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Mayorga-Mosley Presser

A press conference was held today in Los Angeles for the September 27 clash between former world champions Sugar Shane Mosley and Ricardo Mayorga at The Home Depot Center in Carson, California. "It will be a short fight," promised Mayorga. "It will not go longer than three rounds. I will plan on retiring Shane....after I beat Shane, I will fight his boss (Oscar De La Hoya) in a rematch!"

Mosley said, "Mayorga's a big talker and I know things are going to heat up between us, but I've been down this road before. All the talking in the world isn't going to help him when we step into the ring, that's where Mayorga will have to eat his words."

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Chris Byrd on who wins Oscar De La Hoya vs Manny Pacquiao

With the talks of Oscar De La Hoya and Manny Pacquiao consitently heating up over the last few weeks, the former IBF heavyweight champion, Chris Byrd has given his opinions on the possible match up. Quoted on ESPN, Byrd feels De La Hoya coming down in weight to fight Pacquiao won't affect him badly. Byrd also favors De la Hoya in the match-up.

In regards to De La Hoya needing to lose weight in order to fight Pacquiao at 147lbs, Byrd stated: "Obviously, the guy having to lose weight should have a harder time than the guy who's putting it on, but this is different."

Byrd went on to add: "Pacquiao will be coming way up, while Oscar only has to lose a few pounds from what he weighed when he fought Forbes. I'll bet he won't weigh more than 162 when he comes to camp, and he'll be thinking 'Hey, all I've got to do is be 3 pounds lighter than I was last time.' "

Although Byrd feels Manny did well at 135, he still feels Pacquiao is coming way up in weight and will be facing a guy who's better than anyone he's ever faced before. Byrd stated: "Oscar has major skills. He can still do it, and you know he's going to be up for it, knowing that this is his last fight. He's always been a very special boxer."

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

BAD NEWS FROM BEIJING


Gary Russell, Jr. will not compete in the Olympics

According to the New York Times, United States Olympic boxer Gary Russell, Jr. has collapsed and fainted from dehydration and will not be allowed to participate in the Olympics. Russell, who needed to make the amateur bantwamweight limit of 119 pounds, was found laying in his room by teammate Luis Yanez. He was rushed to the hospital where his condition improved, but he was not cleared to make the mandatory weigh-in. Russell was reportedly devastated, and understandably so. He was thought to have a good chance at winning a medal.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: JACK LOEW


The fight between Kelly Pavlik and Bernard Hopkins has officially been announced. Can you give us some thoughts on the fight ,and what we can expect to see from Kelly come October 18th?

"First of all, fighting Bernard Hopkins is fighting a legend. With 21 title defenses, and a close decision with Calzaghe, it's a great fight, just to fight Bernard Hopkins. I think Bernard Hopkins picked the wrong person to fight at this stage in his career, but we're looking forward to it. I think you're going to see an exciting fight, for as long as it lasts."

That's an interesting adjective to describe the fight, and one that a lot of people don't think best suits it. Why will this be an exciting fight?

Jack Loew: It's definitely going to be an exciting fight for the people that like to watch Kelly fight. Listen, we're going to go in there and make Bernard Hopkins fight three minutes of every round. He used to throwing 27 or 37 punches a round, we throw 100 punches a round. When I say exciting, it's exciting on the Pavlik front. I think they're going to see a great Kelly Pavlik that evening. They're going to see him end an era of Bernard Hopkins.

How difficult is it going to be for Kelly to continue to campaign at middleweight when he continues to go up and down, and fluctuating? Since he's won the title from Jermain, he's only defended the title once, and now he's had two fights above 160 since then.

JL: It's not a problem. We'll go back down to 160 for another fight, and probably make a title defense or a mandatory. We're not even going to worry about our weight for this fight. Where it's at is where it's going to be. We're not worried about dieting, we just have to eat correctly. As far as making 160, I see no problem after this fight.

Do you think that taking these fights above the middleweight limit affects Kelly's legacy as a middleweight, particularly if he doesn't stay at 160 too long after this fight?

JL: Yes, it probably could. There's nothing at 160. We fight the Gary Locketts, we fight the John Duddys, and we get ripped by the press. There's really no one to fight, Abraham has a mandatory, so he's doing that, Felix Sturm wants no part of us, that's why we have to go after this. Kelly wants to fight the best, and the biggest names and that's what we're doing.

Who did you think won Bernard Hopkins' two fights with Jermain Taylor?

JL: I thought Taylor beat him.

Both times?

JL: I did not see the whole second fight. I thought Jermain Taylor won those fights.

One thing that everybody can agree on is that even though he's forty-three years old, Bernard Hopkins has never really been beaten up. There's guys in their twenties with more milage on them than he has at forty-three. Can we expect to see Kelly have that odometer spinning, or what?

JL: I think you're going to see a Margarito-Cotto type fight.

Is Bernard going to play Cotto?

JL: Bernard is obviously Cotto.

Is that to insinuate that the fight is not going the distance, is that to insinuate that Bernard is going to flat out take knees and give up, what does that insinuate? The Margarito-Cotto beating was so many things that it's hard to pinpoint just one.

JL: I don't know how it's going to end. I can't see Bernard taking a knee and saying that's it, but I think he's going to be forced to. He's either going to go out on his ass, or he's going to be forced to stop the fight, someone in the corner, whoever's going to show mercy on him.

Other than experience, in your opinion, does Bernard have any other assets?

JL: No.

Do his roughhouse tactics concern you?

JL: Not at all, we can be just as rough as Bernard Hopkins. He's from Philly, we're from Youngstown, it's just a bigger city, there's not much difference.

Closing thoughts.

JL: Tune in October 18th, I think you're going to see history.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

De La Hoya-Pacquiao Update:
Arum, Schaefer remain upbeat

Despite the impasse in negotiations regarding a mouth-watering duel in December between Oscar De La Hoya and Manny Pacquiao, Golden Boy Promotions and Top Rank remain confident the fight will take place. "Hopefully, we get something resolved next week. Our meeting was very productive (although) nothing is resolved," Arum told The Manila Bulletin/Fightnews on Thursday afternoon (Wednesday night in the US).

GBP Chief Executive Officer Richard Schaefer likewise told the Manila paper that "basically the open points came down to weight, size of gloves (8 oz or 10 oz) and the overall percentage split.....Bob and I laid the foundation to get a deal done but now it will be up to Manny and Oscar. Both fighters will have to give in a bit on the various points and find a compromise. My understanding is that Bob will talk to Manny once he is back from Bejing and I will talk to Oscar once he is back from Puerto Rico sometime next week," said Schaefer. "In the end it will not be Bob and I who will enter the ring but Oscar and Manny. If they can not be satisfied with the deal then both will have no choice but to move on and look at other options. It is not up to Bob and me anymore but rather up to the fighters. The deal on the table would ensure a career high payday for Manny," added Schaefer.

"I think both sides want to make a deal," Arum said. If a deal is not made, Arum said he would arrange a fight involving Pacquiao against Humberto Soto of Mexico on Nov. 1 at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Macau card moved to December

The planned Macau card being put up by Top Rank Inc. will most likely be moved to December 13. No less than Top Rank big boss Bob Arum revealed the plan to “Sports Chat” Friday morning aired live over Philippine station DZSR Sports Radio 918kHz. Initially, Arum wants to stage a championship card in Macau on October 11 featuring world flyweight champion Nonito Donaire, Jr. in a mandatory title defense against Moruti Mthalane of South Africa. Arum will now include Donaire for his November 1 fight card top billed by newly-crowned WBA welterweight champion Antonio Margarito possibly against Joshua Clottey in a unification match. Also during the show Arum gave updates on his dealings with Golden Boy Promotions regarding the much-talked about Oscar De La Hoya vs. Manny Pacquiao megabout. Listen to the whole interview here.Winding up the show is an interview with Pacquiao lawyer Jeng Gacal who gave the listeners an idea on how the negotiations are going between Team Pacquiao and the De La Hoya group.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Mayorga-Mosley heats up

Not many boxers like to fight the way former three-time world champion Ricardo "El Matador" Mayorga does. He brings the reckless abandon and fearlessness of a teenager in a street brawl. Mayorga (28-6-1, 22 KOs) is very awkward and his strategy is simple: just come forward, winging big shots with the ability to knock anyone out.

Four-time world champion Sugar Shane Mosley (44-5, 37 KOs) will be the next tangle with the Nicaraguan strongman. That bout is set for September 27th at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California.

"I brought a gift for Shane today, a pair of Pink boxing gloves to match his Pink trunks he will be wearing on September 27, better yet he could be my little green-eye girlfriend," supreme provocateur Mayorga said during a press conference that took place Thursday at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles.

The wild and entertaining Nicaraguan blasted out "I am not afraid of Mosley, I will show him I am the real man, I will stick my chin in the air for him to hit me just like I have done in the past to prove I'm the man."

Mayorga looked and felt confident of winning this fight. He lit up a cigarette during the press conference taunting his opponent, proclaiming that Mosley was no match for him "I took this fight because its an easy fight, I told Don King to get me an easy so I asked for Shane....I made it clear by beating Fernando Vargas at 170 pounds that I am not afraid of anyone. I'm so confident I will win against this pretty girl with green eyes that I want a rematch with Oscar De La Hoya in December. It's going to take me three rounds to beat Mosley and I will be ready for Oscar in December."

"Fernando Vargas and all of his boxing fans told me I couldn't back up my words in November but I did," Mayorga stated in reference to his domination of former two-time world champion "Ferocious" Fernando Vargas at the Staple Center on Nov. 23rd. "I will do to Mosley exactly what I did to Vargas or even worse. Mosley needs to prove to me he can stand up and fight the way Vargas tried to do, Mosley will come to the ring wearing his little pink trunks and his matching boxing gloves skating down the ring. Tn my country the men are in charge."

For Mosley, the bout will be a homecoming. The bout with Mayorga at the Home Depot Center will be his first hometown fight since 2000. The last time Mosley stepped into a Southern California ring was against Oscar De La Hoya at the Staples Center, the fight that catapulted him to boxing superstardom.

"It's been eight years since I fought at home and I can't wait to fight at the Home Depot Center," Mosley said. "Mayorga is a big talker and I know things are going to heat up between us, but I've been down this road before. All the talking in the world isn't going to help him when we step into the ring, that's where Mayorga will have to eat his words."

* * *

Mosley vs. Mayorga, a 154 pound limit junior middleweight attraction, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Don King Productions and will be televised live by HBO's World Championship Boxing beginning at 10:30 pm ET / 7:30 pm PT.

Tickets for the event are price at $350, $150 and $50 go on sale today, August 7 and can be purchased at all Ticketmaster outlets, on the web at Ticketmaster.com or charge-by-phone at (213) 480-3232. Tickets are also available for sale at The Home Depot Center Box Office, open Monday thought Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. PT, and on event days. Event Suites, group packages and VIP packages are available by calling 877-234-8425 or on line at www.aegtickets.com

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Cintron, Bailey and George sign with DiBella Entertainment

Lou Dibella signed two former world champions and one more fighter on the cusp of a big fight.

Those fighters are former IBF Welterweight champion, Kermit Cintron, former WBO Jr. Welterweight champion Randall Bailey and Light Heavyweight contender Shaun George.

Cintron, 29-2 with twenty-seven knockouts was released for a second time by Main Events following his April 12th loss to Antonio Margarito.

"He is still right in the mix and can get him a big fight". Dibella told 15rounds.com. "We will get him in back in there in November."

Bailey, 37-6 with thirty-four knockouts, most recently was with Warriors Boxing,stopped Dairo Esales in forty-six seconds on Wednesday at BB Kings in New York which served as his debut under the Dibella Banner.

George, 17-2-1 with eight knockouts is coming off a ninth round knockout over former Heavyweight champion Chris Byrd on May 16th was with Donna Duva-Brooks and Hall Of Fame promotions. Duva-Brooks just happens to be George's mother-in-law.

George has won four in a row since moving down to Light-Heavyweight. Last week George that he is in negotiations for a November 1st SHOWTIME fight with Glen Johnson.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Witherspoon to return on November 15th on Taylor-Lacy undercard

Heavyweight prospect, Chazz Witherspoon informed 15rounds.com that he will return to the ring on November 15th as part as the off-tv undercard when Jermain Taylor will fight Jeff Lacy.

Witherspoon, 23-1 with fiftenn knockouts will be coming off his first professional blemish when he lost to Chris Arreola on June 21st by Disqualification.

No opponent has been announced yet for Witherspoon.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Shane Mosley on wanting to fight Floyd Mayweather Jr and Antonio Margarito

Shane Mosley is set to take on Ricardo Mayorga on September 7th. If Molsey can defeat Mayorga, he wants to face the best in his next bout and that would be a fight with Antonio Margarito. Quoted recently in the media, Mosley discussed how he wanted to fight Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Mosley explained why he wants Margarito, using Mayweather Jr's name in his explanation, stating: "When Mayweather was on top before he retired, I wanted Mayweather. Margarito is the best welterweight out there right now, so I want Margarito."

Mosley went on to say how much he loves a challenge and it's the reason he is chasing after Margarito. "So if he's the best fighter, I'm going after him," stated Mosley.

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Top 3 stumbling blocks for Oscar De la Hoya vs Manny Pacquiao Revealed

So what's the latest on a possible showdown between Oscar De La Hoya and Manny Pacquiao? According to Golden Boy's CEO Richard Schaefer, who was quoted, chances are at about 70% the fight will happen on December 6th.

Schaefer said in regards to a meeting he had with Pacquiao's promoter, Bob Arum on Wednesday: "We had a two hour meeting, which went well. There are some open issues which need to be resolved, such as the weight. Remember, Oscar hasn't made 147 pounds in almost ten years and it's not so easy. You think, 'Well, it's easy losing an extra couple pounds or so,' but when you are a top-notch athlete, to lose those last few pounds can become very difficult. So that's one of the points."

Schaefer goes on to say that another stumbling block is the gloves used in the fight. "The other one is the size of the gloves, Manny obviously fights in 8-ounce gloves, Oscar fights in 10-ounce gloves, the Nevada regulation is 147-pounds and above its 10-ounce gloves. Unless both parties agree - Oscar doesn't agree to 8-ounce gloves. He wants to fight in 10-ounce gloves," stated Schaefer.

And the final stumbling block, money. At issue is the purse split. Schaefer stated: "And then you have the third point, which is the financial split."

 

[Ready2Rumble82]

Chris Eubank (WBO Middle & Supermiddleweight champ) turns 42 today.