B-Hop, El Matador and Me! All Access Boxing: Part 2

(Photo courtesy - Thao Nguyen)

Just in case you were skeptical about my claim that professional boxing allows more access than any other sport, see the above photographic evidence.

From left to right, that's me, Bernard Hopkins, and Jesus "El Matador" Chavez at yesterday's Lightweight Lightning press conference.

I ran into a guy who was walking around with a camera and the press folder that was handed out. He was a boxing fan who, as I suggested, just showed up to this media event.

His white cover folder was filled with black Sharpie autographs.  The smile on his face was three feet wide.

And why wouldn't he be beaming.  In attendance were all of the fighters who will be battling on the four pay-per-view fights: Edwin Valero, Antonio Pitalua, Jesus Chavez, Michael Katsidis, Carlos Hernandez, Vicente Escobedo, Julio Diaz and Rolando Reyes. And of course, Golden Boy partner Bernard Hopkins.

If you haven't already ordered this PPV, what are you waiting for?  None of these fights will be replayed next week on HBO.  This is the ONLY chance to see these four fights in their entirety.

If you're in or near Austin there are also SIX preliminary bouts on this unprecedented card. That's 10 fights for as little as $15.

That's right.  If you have a student or military ID you get $10 of the price of a $25 ticket.  Even in these economic times you can afford a buck-fifty a fight.

The next time you're seeking vacation ideas, get on-line and check to see the future fights that are scheduled.  Make plans to attend the fight of your choice, but don't forget to show up a few days early.  You too will have access to a star-studded event like I did yesterday here in Austin.