Bleacher Report - Articles by Nathan Aguilar

Five Fights That Would Prepare Ricky Hatton for Manny Pacquiao

Nathan Aguilar — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 05:06:44 -0500

Ricky Hatton has captured the imagination of American boxing fans in the last two years. With a total of 46 fights, Hatton has fought five of his last six in the United States, winning five total. He's proven his courage and will by fighting Floyd Mayweather Jr. and challenging the winner to the Pacquiao-De La Hoya fight.

Unfortunately, rumors state the winner, Manny Pacquiao, may be facing the likes of current retired boxer Mayweather Jr. This leaves Hatton fight-less at the moment unless he wants to fight somebody else until he gets his chance against Pacquiao.

Rumors also state that Hatton's camp is talking of a possible fight against Zab Judah, which I believe would be an unproductive bout before facing Pacquiao. Judah, although an ex-champion, would only give Hatton the experience against a southpaw-style fighter.

Hatton will need an opponent that can apply pressure, not just fancy foot movement, and fast hands. Also, I was under the impression that Judah suffered cuts over both eyes that could put him on an extensive layoff from the ring.

However, a preparation fight for Manny Pacquiao is going to be very important, and Hatton and camp should pick someone different in my opinion. Here are five fighters I believe would be a productive fight, as well as a great achievement if he was to get a victory.

1. Juan Manuel Marquez (49-4-1)

Although Marquez is scheduled to fight Juan Diaz, he is a fellow Golden Boy fighter like Ricky Hatton, and like Ricky, he wants to get the Pacman in the ring.

Fans would love to see JMM fight his way to a rematch with Pacquiao, and you can't deny it would be an explosive fight against the two. Golden Boy can make it happen.

2. Joshua Clottey (35-2)

Hatton hasn't been very sharp-looking at 147 pounds, but if he wants to face a welterweight with speed and great combination punching, Clottey would be a strong opponent.

Clottey only suffered two defeats—one by champion Margarito in which he wanted a rematch, and a unification bout that got pushed to the side.

3. Nate Campbell (32-5-1)

Nate Campbell has a mandatory fight against Ali Funeka, but he has until the end of '09 to make it happen. Campbell would give Hatton the chance to face a fighter that has the in and out style like Pacquiao. Campbell would rush in with three to four punches, and Hitman would need to learn how to stop those from connecting.

4. Kendall Holt (24-2)

Holt successfully defended his title against last minute replacement Demetrius Hopkins and proved that he is a worthy champion and is ready to be known as such against big name opponents.

5. Joel Casamayor (36-4-1)

If Hatton's camp is searching for a fighter that isn't going to cause a huge threat, but gives enough of a battle to make Hatton work, I would go with Casamayor.

A fight with Casamayor is going to give you experience with speed, and he will go toe to toe when you step in. He punches well with both hands and comes from different angles. This would be the safe pick, yet more productive.

Ricky Hatton needs to pick a fighter that is going to show him pressure and angles in the ring. Hatton will need to work on his defense and jab, as we all know he has the habit of standing square and being the pressure fighter.

Against Pacquiao, Hatton will need to be the one stepping to the side away from the power punch. If he steps forward, Pacman won't go anywhere, and if he steps back he's going to trap himself. He will also need to focus on counter punching and four-punch combinations involving the body.

Any fight involving Hatton is interesting, and I'm ready to see where he goes from here.

David Haye: "I've Picked the Klitschko I Want!"

Nathan Aguilar — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 14:07:23 -0500

David Haye's stated, I found my Klitscko and on Saturday I will be ring side calling him out. Former undisputed cruiserweight champion David Haye stepped into the ring as a heavyweight Nov 08 defeating Monte Barrett by a fifth round KO.

The fight was a WBC heavyweight title eliminator, and the knockout win wasn't a surprise with a record 22 (21 KO) one loss Haye knocked out almost every fighter that has stood in front of him. After he defeated Barrett, Haye's made it very clear that he wanted to fight Wladimir or Vitali Klitscko.

Haye has warned Wladimir not to take challenger Rahman to lightly referring to the shot heard around the world when Rahman KO Lennox Lewis with a vicious right hand. Haye went on to state he felt Klitscko would be the better boxer and establish a great rhythm.

Haye said, "I need Klitscko to look amazing he hasn't had a spectacular fight in a long time, if he ever has, and I need him to win because I want to be the one to defeat him for the championship titles he holds."

For a lengthy period Haye in management have been trying to decide which Klitscko brother would be the easiest to get into the ring. Vitali fights Juan Gomez in a mandatory bout in March so a fight with him would push them out until late '09. Haye and camp didn't want to wait that long, and found that Wladimir doesn't half to fight Povetkin until Sept.

Haye stated, "Wladimir can take a voluntary fight in between know and September if there are no injury's that accrue in Saturday bout. But is he man enough?"

Even though Haye is a former champion at cruiserweight, and now wants to make his mark in the heavyweight division, he should realize to be careful what you wish for. Especially when the fighter your calling out is called the Steel Hammer!

Joe Calzaghe: I'm Glad I Got Out When I Did!!

Nathan Aguilar — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 14:49:16 -0500

Joe Calzaghe must be eating sour grapes nowadays. Or does Calzaghe feel the sport that made him who he is today, DYING?

It was reported today that Calzaghe had an interview and stated that he feels boxing is a dying sport with no future. He went on to state that he felt the sport was dying globally, not just in the United States, like some critics feel.

It almost seemed that the words that Calzaghe has spoken might have been coming from anger, and disbelief. His last bout made only $225,000. The Dec. 6 fight against Oscar De La Hoya-Manny Pacquiao generated $1.25 million PPV buys, and was named the dream match.

Calzaghe said, "I fought Roy Jones Jr., the one time pound-for-pound best fighter of the world, even though he was coming back to the ring after some bad luck, there should have been more acknowledgement from the boxing community."

Some of the statements Calzaghe made were reasonable and on cue. He expressed how there where to many belts involved, four different belts in every weight class doesn't allow a true champion, Calzaghe stated. And, I agree how can a fighter have the hunger to become the champ when he can scout out the easiest champion to face.

If you scout between four opponents you just need to find the guy you match against the best. Remember, styles make fights, and if you have equal talented champions go for the belt with the easiest ranking list, since each belt has their own rankings.

What I didn't agree with is he said that MMA is going to take over boxing's fan base, and eventually it will die out. Now, I'm a huge contact sport fan (just read my bio), and I don't think boxing is going to die by the hands of MMA.

The only think they have in common is there two fighters that battle in a one-on-one competition. You can't compare the two, and you shouldn't try. It takes amazing technique, strength, and skill to be a great boxer and MMA fighter.

Why Calzaghe would make a comment so bold about a sport that gave him everything he has today is beyond me. Calzaghe is the No. 2 pound-for-found fighter in my eyes, but if he doesn't believe in the life of boxing, who says he needs to fight anymore?

Personally, I think he was bitten by the green-eyed monster, and was talking out of his you know what, or at least I hope he was.

Just remember boxing isn't dead, and it isn't dying.

Kendall Holt vs Demetrius Hopkins: Hopkins Replaced Torres Short Notice

Nathan Aguilar — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 04:12:26 -0500

Demetrius Hopkins was kissed by lady luck yesterday Dec 8th when challenger Ricardo

Torres pulled out of the highly anticipated unpredictable rubber match against WBO junior welterweight champ Kendall Holt. Torres' promoter reported that he became ill during training camp this weekend, and they couldn’t foresee their fighter challenging for the title in his condition.

Hopkins has a record of 24 wins (11KO) zero lost one decision. Originally scheduled on the stacked under card Hopkins states, he’s in the best shape ever, “I train hard for every fight I was ready to show I'm contender, Know I get to show them they made the right pick. I will be the WBO champ after Dec 13,” stated Hopkins.

With an undefeated record Hopkins, nephew to Bernard Hopkins feels he is the upset pick, and many agree. It’s always a dangerous situation when you decide to take a fight against a last minute opponent. With out any prior knowledge of a fighter you just can’t really be fully prepared.

The fight should be entrusting Holt has showing his strong chin and capability to refocus his self in a tough situation in the last meeting with Torres. He showed his power punching with the KO win.

Hopkins showed he could hang with the likes of the experienced Steve Forbes for a 12 round decision, and he showed his accuratepunching in power with the KO over Michael Warrick, which many felt it could have been KO of the year.

The fight may not be Holt v. Torres III the rubber match, but like I said it could be entrusting or even exciting.

Oscar De La Hoya: Can the Golden Boy Restore His Legacy?

Nathan Aguilar — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 14:03:26 -0500

Boxing is a sport of skill, strength, and heart, but what really matters to the promoters and the box office is marketability. Some boxers market themselves’ by talking smack, and then working hard at backing it up.

Others spin their negative life situations, "No publicity is bad publicity," they always say. But, then there’s the fighter that is just Golden. They come along every so often and they just market themselves.

Oscar De La Hoya was one of those fighters he had an outstanding armature career of 184-0. Winning Golden Gloves and three amateur championships, he also took home the gold in the 1990 Goodwill Games and the 1992 Olympics.

De la Hoya was a star in the making, people were intrigued with the Latin American fighter that fought with the boxing skill of a Sugar Ray and Parnell Whittaker. They were custom to Latin brawlers and pressure fighters like Chavez.

Fans have always been split with De La Hoya, just like they always are with big name fighters. Not everyone liked Ali, Roy Jones, and Tyson.

Muhammad Ali is one of the best heavyweights in the world. Ali ended his amazing career with his two last bouts ending in losses, and five defeats during his whole career. He did miss a lot of his prime time when he couldn't fight, but Ali like many couldn't walk away when it was time.

Mike Tyson, as everyone knows, was a monster in the ring, and defeated himself the majority of his career. But, Tyson also ended his career with his last two bouts being loses, and retired with six defeats on his record.

Roy Jones is a legend that tried to regain his glory and he came up short. The one thing that impressed me about Jones was his will to regain success. Jones suffered three straight defeats, and could have hung his gloves up.

Jones did what I didn’t expect he fought unknown fighters, they weren’t huge battles and weren’t advertised as such, and he just wanted to see who he was at that point in his career.

Oscar De La Hoya could learn a big lesson from this, and many would say he did this by fighting Forbes, and to some point, yes, he did. But, I don’t feel it was enough he should be fighting against Felix Trinidad, Ronald Wright, and Vernon Forrest. These are fights people probably wouldn’t be happy to see, but DLH needs to fight for himself at this point.

When Larry Merchant, asked DLH if he was going to fight again Oscar said, “My heart wants to fight, but if my body doesn’t respond...” and then stopped talking. Oscar is a fighter, and he is also the biggest marketing tool in boxing. DLH will need to find out at this point which one he needs to be.

Oscar can retire and fans will say one of two things. Oscar De La Hoya was one of the legends of boxing. Others will say that Oscar was overrated and couldn't close the big show. But, nobody will stop talking about him just like Ali, Jones Jr., and Tyson.

So my opinion and advise to DLH is please find your hunger, but if you’re not hungry don’t eat! My wife taught me this saying her family always used, “Stop eating with your eyes.” Which meant you're only eating what you think looks good; your stomach can’t take anymore.

So, Oscar De La Hoya, stop fighting with only your heart. Because remember you still need strength and skill, and if you can’t rekindle that with all the respect in the world, please bow out gracefully.

Top Fighters Manny Pacquiao Could Face Next

Nathan Aguilar — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 10:28:32 -0500

I began to write an article explaining Manny Pacquiao's accomplishments and listing the top fighters he's beaten. But I realized he showed who he was last night when he dominated Oscar De La Hoya like no other boxer has done.

Without further ado, I'll just get down to business like the Pac-Man and list which fighters I feel would be his top opponents.

If Pacquiao stays at the (147 pound) welterweight division...

1. Floyd Mayweather (39-0)

Mayweather the former best P4P fighter that retired with an elite few as undefeated from the sport would be a real dream match former P4P vs current P4P fighter.

Floyd known for his flamboyant personality has been known for turning away dangerous opponents, but he may be persuaded by the possible pay day the fight could bring.

2. Antonio Margarito (37-5)

Margarito scheduled to face Sugar Shane Mosley in Jan. Has just came off a dominating performance against Miguel Cotto. If he's successful against Mosley he will continue to show he is among the best today.

Since he has been unsuccessful setting a match up against DLH, a fight against Pacquiao will give him a chance to do what no other Mexican fighter has been able to do defeat the Pac-Man.

3. Miguel Cotto (32-1)

Cotto Scheduled to fight in Feb. for the vacated welterweight title that ex champ Paul Williams gave up to move to junior middleweight. Cotto is to face Jennings from England in which this is a fight many expect Cotto to win.

If Cotto was to regain the title this would give Pacquiao a chance to ad another division championship to his resume, and give Cotto a huge win and a shot back at the top.

4. Shane Mosley (45-5)

Sugar Shane Mosley has proven time after time he is always ready to step up to the plate. Mosley has fought boxers that claimed they were been overlooked by big named fighters. Such as Vernon Forrest, Ronald Wright, Miguel Cotto, and know he's scheduled to fight Antonio Margarito in Jan.

Although he's been unable to beat the three boxers that I named they are the only results to his defeats. If he could defeat the Margarito and then go onto to fight Pacquiao It would be a great victory for either fighter.

If Pacquiao was to fight at junior welterweight (140 pounds)...

5. Ricky Hatton (45-1)

Hatton has already called out Pacquiao when he said he wanted to face the winner of the DLH-Pac-Man bout. With only one defeat by the hands of the former P4P fighter Mayweather many fill he should get the fight.

I feel Hatton should be careful what he wishes for, and he should start preparing know if he gets his wish.

6. Kendall Holt (24-2), Ricardo Torres (32-2), Andreas Kotelinek (30-2-1)

The reason I named these three fighters together as top opponents is because their title holders in the junior welterweight division. Holt listed first, because he's defending the title against Torres in a rubber match Dec 13th. The fighters promoters have already agreed that the winner is to face Kotelinek for a unification bout.

A fight with the winner between Holt-Torres or Kotelink will give Pacquiao a chance to win a title in another division which would give him five different division titles.

If Pacquiao was to fight at lightweight (135 pounds)...

7. Nate Campbell (32-5-1)

Campbell a fighter in the stacked lightweight division holds the IBF/WBO titles making him one of the best. He showed his great boxing skills over top rank fighter Juan Diaz among other fighters he's defeated.

A Pacquiao win could add to the titles the Pac-man has held, and lead to a road of becoming the undisputed lightweight champion.

8. Juan Diaz (34-1)

Ranked number three in the lightweight division Diaz is currently setting up a match against Jaun Marquez. If Diaz can defeat Marquez he will reclaim a lightweight title. This could be another fight in which Pacquiao can defeat a strong opponent, and step closer to becoming the Undisputed lightweight champion.

9. Juan Marquez (49-4-1)

Pacquiao defeated Marquez twice already in because of that in my eyes a fight between the two is pointless. Even though both fights were close the only way they should meet again is if Marquez defeats Diaz and retains his title.

With Marquez as a champion Pacquiao would need to defeat him again to become the undisputed champ.

If Pacquiao was to fight at junior lightweight (130 pounds)...

10. Humberto Soto (45-7-2)

I don't feel Pac-Man should go back down as far as Jr. lightweight, but if he was to do so he would have to face the best of of division which is Soto at the time.

I don't have Paul Williams on my list because a 6'1" boxer facing a 5'6" boxer is to much of difference, and Freddie Roach wouldn't place Pacquiao against someone with that much of a advantage or James Toney would've fought Klistchko by now.

O'neil " Super Nova" Bell: Stepping In The Ring at Heavyweight.

Nathan Aguilar — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 16:14:09 -0500

On Jan. 14, former undisputed cruiserweight champion O'neil Bell will be stepping in the ring against Wille Palms. Palms with a record of 10 wins (5KO) six loss is clearly a start up fight into the division. But, many will question why would a former undisputed champion need a start up fight and not a bigger name opponent.

Unfortunately, for Bell it's because he was defeated in his last two bouts. Plus, his camp wants to make sure that all of the cobwebs and excuses are out of his head. Although Bell is a talented boxer and was the only other cruiserweight to become the undisputed champion of the world, other than the one and only Evander Holyfield. It has been said Bell is a hard fighter to keep on the straight an arrow.

Bell started his career like every boxer would love, he got a first round knock out over William Holyfield, nephew to Evander Holyfied a fighter he always looked up to. The thrill was short lived for the moment when he was KO in his second fight by one time prospect Mohamed Benguesmia.

After being stopped in his second professional fight Bell went on a winning streak defeating 26 opponents in a row collecting championships along the way. Bell started out winning small titles such as NABF/USBA cruiserweight titles. He then went on to win the IBF cruiserweight title in a controversial UD over Canadian fighter Dale Brown.

After one successful title defense Bell went on to fight WBC/WBA cruiserweight champion Jean Marc Mormeck for a unification bout. Mormeck showed a strong seven rounds before he began to get over worked and pressured by Bell leading to a KO in the 10th round. Mormeck suffered his first knockout of his career, and O'niel Bell added his name to boxing history.

But the glory didn't last long four months later Bell was stripped of the IBF title for withdrawing from a mandatory title defense against number one contender Steve Cunningham. Almost a year later he was accused of throwing an axe at his training partner when he was in Big Bear training for the Mormeck rematch in which he lost.

After losing in Feburary to Mormeck, Bell was expected to fight on ESPN fight night six months later. His match was canceled because ESPN advisers, and Bell's camp couldn't find him anywhere three weeks before the fight.

Bell did return to the ring in April 08, to face Poland native Tomasz Adamek. Adamek dropped Bell in round one, and continued to dominate the entire fight. Bell called it quits at the end of the seventh round refusing to come back out giving Adameck an eight round TKO.

Promoters and trainer of Bell say moving up to the heavyweight division is going to bring out the champion mentality that Bell once had. They're confident that the stress of making weight was the only mental and physical problem Bell had.

After the TKO lost to Adameck. Bell said,

"I felt sick and tired I can't fight at cruiserweight anymore, my body isn't built for it."

With a 80 percent knockout rate 26 wins (24KO) Bell showed power at cruiserweight and guarantees to bring a lot more power with him to his new division.

Personally, I wish Bell strength and focus because it's always great to see a fighter achieve all he is capable of.

Evander Holyfield vs. Nikolai Valeuv: Is the Ring Evander’s Holy Field?

Nathan Aguilar — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 14:52:05 -0500

Evander Holyfield is headlining a main event once again, challenging for the heavyweight championship on a stage where he has performed many times before. Holyfield age 46 will be facing not only a champion, but also an opponent that stands eight inches taller than him.

Nikolai Valeuv WBA heavyweight champion stands at seven feet giving him the alias “The Russian Giant.” Valeuv holds a record of 49 wins (34KO) one loss giving him a knockout rating of 66.67%. People would expect more from a boxer called the giant; fans crave the knockout power of heavyweights, and the Russian Giant isn’t living up to the hype.

With an 85" reach Valeuv should be able to measure his opponent up for a dominating knock out punch however, four of his last five fights went the distance. The fight against Jameel McCline ended in the third round; due to a knee injury McCline couldn't fight any further.

Holyfield the smaller of the two isn’t unfamiliar with the situation. Starting out as a light heavyweight he often went into the ring over-weighed by his opponent. He’s faced heavyweights such as Lenox Lewis, George Foreman, Riddick Bowe, Larry Holmes and James Douglas.

I can’t forget the Holyfield-Tyson fights; Holyfield built onto his legacy by repeating what only one other boxer James “Buster” Douglas has done at the time, defeating Mike Tyson.

He showcased stamina, resilience, and strength wining by TKO in the first fight, and frustrating Tyson to the point of a psychotic ear biting incident which led to a DQ in the second fight leaving Holyfield the winner.

Holyfield’s boxing career has been a lot like his life he’s faced success and downfalls, but one thing is for sure he has fought his way out every time. Media and Analyst say Holyfield continues to step into the ring because of financial problems.

It was stated that Holyfield almost suffered home foreclosure, and sponsors dropping contracts for steroid rumors. Then he has limited areas he can fight due to records showing he’s not passing all of his pre fight exams.

But, even through all the controversy Holyfield has managed to set up a title fight for the second time in a row within 14 months. Coming off the loss against Sultan Ibragimov WBO heavyweight champion that ended in a UD.

With an activity level that's exceeded most heavyweights within the last two years Holyfield states he’s in the best shape possible. He also states that he is only living the life God gave him, and God is the only one that can tell him when to stop.

Fortunately, for Holyfield God hasn’t thrown in the towel, and not only will Holyfield be challenging for the title he will be fighting for history. A win against Valeuv will make Holyfield the oldest fighter in history to win a title.

Currently George Forman holds the record winning the title from Michael Moore at 45. Some people will criticize this fight and say that it represents what kind of trouble boxing is in. But, they didn’t say that when Forman fought Moore they called it a great comeback.

I can’t say that The Real Deal Holyfield will win the title or if he will put on a great fight, but I can say he will show up. He’ll lace the gloves up for his 54th professional fight and go to work. Relying on God to get him through the battle he will show that he is a Christian by heart and a Warrior by nature.

Andre Berto vs. Luis Collazo: THE TEST CONTINUES!!

Nathan Aguilar — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 06:29:40 -0500

On Jan. 17 the WBC welterweight title will be on the line. Andre Berto will be making his second defense at the Madison Square Garden against Luis Collazo. Collazo, coming off two wins in '08 hopes to make his third straight win for the title.

Berto’s manager and trainer have done a great job mapping his way to the top by carefully picking opponents who will showcase his skills and strengths. Berto fought his way to a WBC vacant title match, defeating Miguel Rodriguez by KO.

After winning the title he continued to show growth by defending his belt against Steve Forbes. Forbes was coming off a string of loses against Demetrius Hopkins' nephew, Bernard Hopkins, and Oscar De La Hoya.

However, Forbes did beat rising star Francisco Bojado, and regained his name from the reality show, "Contender." With 40 fights and 296 total rounds fought, Forbes was still a tough test and a great opponent for Berto.

Berto will now face another worthy fighter with good skill and the hunger for greatness. Collazo with a record of 29 wins (14KO) and three losses will be up for the challenge.

Collazo has been on the big stage before, facing the likes of Sugar Shane Mosley, and Ricky Hatton. Although he lost both fights he went 12 rounds with both fighters. Many say that Collazo won the Ricky Hatton bout as he stunned Hatton on more than one occasion.

Although the fight with Collazo is mandatory by the WBC, this bout will help Berto improve and grow. Pushing him closer to fight other big names like Carlos Quintana, Isaac Hlathshwayo and Zab Judah.

My prediction is that with Berto's strength and improved boxing skills, he will prevail in the match. Collazo has only been stopped once, but his loss shows that he can be beat. Berto should use his strength to get inside and work on the body.

Good body work will slow down the quick moving Collazo, leaving more opportunities to catch him with a finishing power punch in the mid rounds.

Collazo will need to focus on his jab to keep Berto at bay. By doubling up his jab and using a quick hook to the body he may have a chance of taking Berto’s power away, and slow him down.

Although he won't have a big chance to knock Berto out he can drag the bout to 12 rounds and take the decision.

Riddick Bowe: Still Punching After 40

Nathan Aguilar — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 15:50:59 -0500

Riddick Bowe is returning to the ring at age 41 to fight in the under card of Wladmir Klitschko-Hasim Rahman. Bowe an ex heavyweight champion will be fighting his first match since '05 when he faced Billy Zumbrun.

Bowe only fought twice this decade the other fight was against Marcus Rhode in '04. Although he won both bouts he has not been fully active since '95 with one fight in '96 before he retired.

It was said by Hervey Allen, "The only time you really live fully is from 30 to 60."

If that's true Riddick Bowe is still a young man with a stunning record of 42 wins (33KO) and one loss he was one of the top heavyweight champions of his earlier career. The only loss Riddick Bowe suffered came from the rematch between him and Evander Holyfield.

Holyfied and Bowe split a match a piece. Bowe defeated Holyfield by TKO in the eighth round in their rubber match closing out the trilogy on top.

After the Holyfield fights Bowe had two terrible bouts that made history for all the wrong reasons. He faced Andrew Golota the top polish fighter at the time was training in Chicago with a record of 28-0.

The fight was viewed as a huge main event and was held at Madison Square Garden the arena that all fighters dream of headlining at. There were Poland Flags and Red and White shirts and face paintings everywhere cheering for the Polish boxer.

Unfortunately, they got a circus act instead of a boxing match Golota was out boxing and dominating Riddick Bowe. Until he began to feel tired and frustrated that Bowe wouldn’t go down. Golota began a trend that followed him through the rest of his career by hitting Bowe with low blows intentionally until he was disqualified in the seventh round.

In result of the disqualification from the low blows a riot broke out in the ring against Bowe's corner and Golota's corner. The riot spread throughout the stadium leaving a lot of people injured and arrested.

The rematch was more of the same Golota was disqualified in the ninth round for low blows after being ahead on the scorecards.

Riddick Bowe has always been known for his poor conditioning so it will be hard to say if he could make an effective comeback against his opponent that is still TBA.

All we can say is Good Luck Bowe!

Juan Lopez vs Sergio Medina to Headline De La Hoya Under Card

Nathan Aguilar — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 08:27:32 -0500

December sixth is a big day for most hardcore boxing fans, and for fans who love big name boxers.

It’s the day Golden Boy and Pac-man meet in the ring, but what they’re not expecting is the exciting under-card.

The co-main event features Juan Manuel Lopez vs. Sergio Manual Medina for the WBO Super Bantamweight Title.

Juan Lopez, alias “Juanma," will be making the second defense of the title. With an unbeaten record of 23 wins (21KO), which puts his knockout percent at 91.3, there is no shortage of proof that the little man can hang with the big boys!

Juanma has only gone the distance twice, and both times were in 2006.

He’s knocked-out his last 13 opponents and over half of them were within the first six rounds. Lopez has stated that he views Sergio Medina as a speed bump, someone he had to run into, and shows his feelings by barely acknowledging the fight in press conferences and interviews.

“I’m looking for my next opponent and I have two in mind,” Juan Lopez said.

The two he’s speaking of are: Junior Featherweight champion Israel Vazquez, and Rafael Marquez, two top names in boxing today known for their epic Trilogy that made it into the Hall of Fame this year.

Like every boxer, Juanma wants the big fights that can bring him big money, but unfortunately in the lighter divisions the big names that make the money are the guys who pose threats.

Opponent Breakdowns

Israel Vasquez (43-4)

Loves to stand toe-to-toe, has good boxing skills and a very fast paste. He poses punching power that matches up with the best of which is why he's the champ.

Rafael Marquez (37-5)

He essentially has a similar fighting style to Vasquez except for the impressive counter punching he possesses, like brother Juan Manuel Marquez.

I feel that the motive to fight these two fighters would come from the rivalry between Puerto-Rican and Mexican fighters.

I found no records of him calling out Celestino Caballero (31-2) who is ranked number two in the division and just recently won in a powerful showing with a fourth round KO in a fight he completely dominated.

But, what Juan Manuel Lopez may be doing is looking over the opponent that is focusing on him.

Sergio Manuel Medina is an experienced fighter who may not be ranked in the top five fighters alongside the names I mentioned, but he is a veteran boxer with a record of 33 wins (18KO) and one loss.

Coming out of Argentina, Sergio Medina is called by the alias “Rocky” and with 203 rounds fought he can cause difficulty for any fighter. You should never overlook an opponent and on December sixth, Sergio Medina hopes to show why.

Sergiy Dzinziruk, WBO Champ, Calls Out Paul Williams

Nathan Aguilar — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 06:30:32 -0500

Ask and you shall receive.

Paul Williams wanted to know if he would be able to get a big fight at 154 pounds. I even went as far as writing an article naming the top five fighters I felt were a good match.

My No. 3 pick, WBO Jr. middleweight champion Sergiy Dzinziruk, unbeaten with 36 wins (22 KO), said he wants to fight the WBO Jr. middleweight interim champion Paul Williams. He also stated that he wants to fight Williams in the Untied States like many fighters that have been making their way to the States for main event bouts.

Dzinziruk said, “I’m ready. Just let me know where and when. I think it would be an excellent fight. I want this fight in the USA.”

Followed by the comments of promoter Klaus-Peter Kohl, who said, “Sergiy is one of the best boxers of our stable, and we would be very happy to show his skill in the United States as well.”

Sergiy Dzinziruk is willing to delay his chances to unify the title to fight Williams to prove he is among the elite boxers of today. What better way to prove that you’re a great boxer than to go after the guy that says everyone is running from him?

Dzinziruk is doing just that and putting his WBO title on the line. Know he’s leaving the ball in Paul Williams’ court, along with the question about whether or not he will fight Sergiy Dzinziruk. Or does the chance of getting a real title not appeal to him like getting the big bucks?

I guess this will be the moment we'll see what Williams is all about.

Paul Williams Wants to Know: WHO'S NEXT?!

Nathan Aguilar — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 14:58:55 -0500

Paul "The Punisher" Williams has defeated Verno Phillips by TKO in the eighth round. This is his second fight at middleweight since 2002, and he has two knockouts with only a total of nine rounds between both opponents.

Williams is now the interim WBO light middleweight champion, and in need of a big fight running into the same problem he faced in the welterweight division.

Williams and his trainer claimed nobody would fight him in the welterweight division. In two of his last three fights he showed why.

He beat Antonio Margarito for the WBO welterweight title and defeated Carlos Quintana in a devastating one-round knockout in their rematch. The rematch that Carlos won by unanimous decision, winning back the WBO title he had lost.

He chased Kermit Cintron and had a failed attempt to get a fight with Miguel Cotto because of the Margarito–Cotto fight. Williams decided to vacate his WBO welterweight title, and pursue bigger opponents, but who?

Here are a few fighters I think would be good matchup:

1. Vernon Forrest (41-3)

Forrest is another fighter that proclaims that no one will fight him coming up in the same era as Oscar De La Hoya, Trinadad, and Suger Shane Mosley.

It was hard to find the spotlight for Forrest until he defeated the one fighter that gave him the shot, Shane Mosley, and doing it not once, but twice.

2. Cory Spinks (36-5)

Corey lost his title to Verno Phillips that was vacated by ex-champion Phillips to fight Paul Williams. This left Spinks in line to regain his title, and would give Williams the chance to gain the actual title and not the interim.

3. Sergiy Dzinziruk (36-0)

Ranked third, Jr. middleweight Sergiy Dzinziruk just won a mandatory fight over my number four pick, Joel Julio. A fight against Sergiy Dzinziruk would be a great test for Paul Williams and would give him a chance at the WBO Jr middleweight title.

4. Joel Julio (34-2)

In my opinion, Joel Julio is one of the best 154-pound fighters today with punching power in both hands. His latest defeat came from a fight he shouldn't have been a part of.

His first defeat came from Carlos Quintana in the welterweight division, which Joel seemed to lose steam in the later rounds. After the Quintana fight, Joel moved up to the Jr. middleweight division where the weight was more natural for him.

5. Sergio Mora (21-1-1)

Sergio, most famous for winning the reality show Contender, wouldn't usually be a part of my list but he did win the WBO title from Vernon Forrest. Although Forrest looked far from impressive and Sergio Mora lost in a dominating fashion in the rematch, he is still ranked in the top 10.

There are a couple of fighters that I didn't mention such as Oscar De La Hoya because he will probably be retiring or looking to fight Ricky Hatton or Margarito to stop rumors that he's scared to face him.

Winky Wright is looking to fight in the middleweight division and wants to face Kelly Pavlik, Athur Abarham, or even Felix Sterm for a title shot. And those three are looking for unification bouts that they can't negotiate on.

So whom ever the next opponent might be I'm sure that Paul Williams will be ready to keep proving his name the Punisher isn't just a name. But any one of the five fighters I named can be a showstopper, and would make for good fights in my opinion.

Enraged By Vic Darchinyan's Comments, Jorge Arce States: Now It's Personal!

Nathan Aguilar — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 16:29:07 -0500

Vic Darchinyan, the Unified Super Flyweight Champion, has not only made harsh comments to his next opponent, WBA Interim Super flyweight Champion Jorge Arce, he's went as far as attacking all Mexican fighters.

During an interview about the upcoming bout Darchinyan said:

"I can't get enough of Mexican fighters. They bounce real good off the canvas when I hit them. Let's see, I've stopped Cristian Mijares, Victor Burgos, and Luis Maldonado over the past two years. Unlike Jorge Arce, those three fighters were very tough hombres. Defeating Arce won't take much training. It won't even be a fight for me!"

Vic Darchinyan, known for his brash attitude and overwhelming confidence, has had very little difficulty proving himself. He holds a record of 31-1-1 (25 KO). His one loss came by the way of knockout in the fifth round by Nonito Donaire. Even after his defeat, he continues to win fights and capture titles, proving he is a championship-caliber fighter.

Darchinyan is the current WBA, WBC, IBF and IBO Undisputed Super Flyweight World Champion, following the path of fellow Australian boxing star Kostya Tszyu and matching former trainer Jeff French's three-time division championships.

Jorge Arce (49-4-1 with 37 KOs) is a dynamic fighter with the experience and power to defeat anyone at any time. With only one loss in his last 32 fights, he proves that he is a force to be reckon with.

He enjoys standing toe-to-toe and exchanging punches with his opponent. Arce once stated, "I like getting hit; it gives me fuel to hit back even harder."

Tiburcio Garcia, trainer of Jorge Arce, said that the remarks Vic Darchinyan made are going to hurt his chances to get the victory.

Boxers are known and even expected to make remarks to get under their opponent's skin and into their heads to affect their thinking in the ring. But, Arce's camp feels Darchinyan has crossed a dangerous line that he will pay for.

Jorge Arce also commented on how he always wondered how he would react if he was attacked this way by an opponent before the fight. After watching Floyd Mayweather Jr. adopt Roger Mayweather's ring entrance when he fought Oscar De La Hoya dressed as the Mexican Killer, and Ricky Hatton mimicking Mayweather during his entrance when he fought Jose Luis Castillo.

Arce feels he will use these remarks as fuel, and dare Darchinyan to trade punches with him in the middle of the ring or on the ropes. It will be another day in the playground: Darchinyan picks the fight and Jorge Arce will need to finish it, and it will all begin when he walks to the ring with the blow pop in his mouth and cowboy hat on his head.

Both fighters will be ready to throw thundering power punches, and throwing them in bunches. My prediction is that Darchinyan should be ready to use his newly found boxing dynamics that he recently added to his already skilled arsenal.

Arce should get in close and pressure Darchinyan using his overwhelming speed and combinations. This should wear out and eventually leave an opening to catch Darchinyan like it has been done before because of the wide punches he sometimes throws.

On Feb. 7, 2009, live on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING we will find out which boxer will come out with the victory and become the Unified Super Flyweight Champion. I'm sure we won't be disappointed.

Kendall Holt Vs. Ricardo Torres III: The Rubber Match

Nathan Aguilar — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 18:36:03 -0500

Many people say a third time is a charm, and others will say three strikes, you're out. But what will people say after the rubber match between Kendall Holt-Ricardo Torres comes to a close?

Top Rank Promotions will be hosting the trilogy finale on Dec. 13, at the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, and also aired on Showtime. The WBO junior welterweight title will be on the line.

Kendall Holt (24-2 with 13 KO) won the the WBO junior welterweight title in a rematch against Ricardo Torres by a knockout an 61 seconds of the first round.

Coming back after two flash knockdowns, Holt caught Torres with an overhand right that sent Torres hanging on the ropes for the KO win.

With that last minute desperation punch that stopped Torres from finishing the job he started when the bell rang, Holt became the new WBO junior welterweight champion.

Avenging the defeat Torres gave him in their first meeting, Holt felt he was only giving what he was supposed to already have. Kendall Holt and trainer felt the first defeat was controversial anyway, due to fans throwing drinks and items in the ring.

This enabled Holt to defend himself when the referee stopped the bout in the 11th round although Torres seemed to have him in trouble in the 10th.

Ricardo Torres (32-2 with 28 KO) and two loss defeated Kendall Holt by TKO in the 11th round. Torres was behind on the judges cards and wasn't able to gain momentum from behind until the tenth round which led to the controversial stoppage in the 11th round. Ricardo Torres came out of the corner after winning the tenth round, and begun to attack Kendall Holt in his corner until the Ref stepped in.

In the rematch, tired of the accusations of early stoppage, Torres came out in a fury, knocking down Holt twice in the first 30 seconds. After the second knockdown, Ricardo Torres rushed in to get the first round stoppage, and was caught with a counter over hand right stopping him in his tracks. Ricardo Torres flew into the ropes and was down for the count.

This was Ricardo's second lost both coming by the way of knock out the first, came from Miguel Cotto and know from Holt. Only this time it took him awhile to get up and then he was taken to the hospital were was informed that he had concussion.

Know the fight continues in the 13th round with each fighter rewarded with a KO. Ricardo Torres in their a 11th round meeting, and the second fight started like they came out for the 12th with Kendall Holt getting the KO.

It's hard to pick a winner between to guys that have the power to hurt the other, so my prediction is entertainment. We may see drama, action, or even history. You never know, but it will be one to watch.

Klitschko-Rahman, Toney-Thompson Will Rock Heavyweight Division

Nathan Aguilar — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 16:42:01 -0500

2008 is ending out big with big fights in middleweight, welterweight, and now the heavyweight division.

On Dec 13, there will be two heavyweight battles that will make or break three of the fighters and help the forth be looked at as the possible best of his time. I emphasize time because many are still looking for a heavyweight champion, and they continue to over look the strength and talent of Wladimir Klitschko.

On HBO's Boxing After Dark, Hashim Rahman was giving the opportunity to fight the IBF/WBO/IBO heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko because of the ankle injury of opponent Povetkin.

Former Champion Hashim "the Rock" Rahman with a record of 45 wins (36KO), six losses, two draws, one no contest, and has once held the WBC/WBA/IBF heavyweight titles, which he won from the champion Lennox Lewis in a bout that took place in South Africa with a one punch KO in the fifth round.

After losing his title he has had a hard time trying to get back to the top. Been ranked fifth by the IBF it made him a good replacement for Wladimir Klitschko with the amount of time they had to find a fighter that would be ready to fight at a championship level. Although Rahman has only made it to a number one contender bout, and lost it against John Ruiz since holding the title he still possess a punchers change.

They say the last thing some one losses is his their strength and the Rock has showed he has power.

Wladimir Klitschko with a record of 51 wins (45KO) and three losses has been showing tremendous recovery from his last defeat by the hands of former champion Lamon Brewster. The fight took place on April 10, 2004 which I remember well since it was on my birthday. Many people still question his chin even though it's been almost five years ago.

Klistscko has regained three titles and defeated Lamon Brewster in a rematch by TKO. Trainer Buddy McGirt stopped the fight when it was obvious that his fighter wasn't going to win and would only continue to take unnecessary punishment if the fight would have proceeded.

Even with the success Dr. Steel Hammer has been achieving it still hasn't been enough for people to name him the answer of heavyweight boxing.

My prediction is even thou Hashim Rahman has the puncher chance and the confidence and heart which shows with him taken this fight in short notice. He will lose by Knockout to the hands of Wladimir "Dr. Steel Hammer" Klitschko.

James Toney vs. Tony Thompson

On the cable network Versus to additional Heavyweights will be fighting for their chance to be viewed as contenders for the title on Dec 13. Both are considered ranked fighters and are ready too up that ranking to the top ten to be part of the fighters that get the shots at big titles.

Most people would rather watch legendary fights on ESPN, but you just may still be watching James "Lights Out" Toney with his record at 70 wins (43 KO) six losses and three draws. He's had many battles and has won multiple titles in different division.

Roy Jones Jr. Stated in current interviews with ESPN during the hype of his last fight that James Toney was the best fighter he ever stepped into a ring with.

Tony "The Tiger" Thompson, 31 wins (19 KO) two losses is returning to the ring after his defeat from Wladimir Klitschko in his challenge for the title. It was his first defeat in eight years and although he fell short of the victory he should a lot of courage during the bought.

Thompson has stated that he is ready to climb back on top and he will need to start with James Toney.

The fight will make for a interesting battle for a another chance at glory in the IBA World Heavyweight Championship a title which isn't highly recognized, but it will have to do for now.

Ronald Winky Wright Vs. Michi Munoz: MATCH CANCELED!

Nathan Aguilar — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 13:57:44 -0500

Golden Boy Promotion's has reported that the come back bout for Winky Wright has been canceled. Winky has injured his left hand while sparring by hitting his sparring partner on the top of the head. The injury was to the base of the hand and wrist decreasing the punching power by a great percentage.

The cancellation came from doctor's orders so the come back will be prolonged to a later date. To some it won't matter because they felt their should be no comeback at all. To others it will be a itchy wait to see if he can once again capture the championship. The next question will be is he going to take a fight with Michi Munoz or will he go for the big name fight wright away.

Miguel Cotto Vs. Michael Jennings: For Vacant WBO Welterweight Title

Nathan Aguilar — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 13:00:13 -0500

Miguel Cotto will be returning to the ring February '09 after suffering his fist lost by TKO to reigning champion Antonio Margirito. Many were in question to who would be Cotto's next opponent after the defeat, and now that question may be answered.

After coming up short to a rematch with Antonio Margirito, Cotto had to seek other opponents. The question is who? Was it going to be an opponent that was going to attract star points and big money? Or would they pick a fighter that is considered a safe opponent and confidence booster?

Either way because of his status and background it couldn't be a meaningless battle it needs to be someone that can build confidence, and recognition.

Cotto's camp is jumping on the opportunity that Miguel Cotto still has a big name and fan base even thou he lost his title. They’re going after the vacant WBO Welterweight title that was vacated by former champion Paul Williams. This will give the former champion Cotto the chance to become a champion and build the self-esteem he may have lost from his last time in the ring.

Michael Jennings fighting out of Chorley, England has a record of 34 wins and one loss. He never fought in the United States and it hasn't been said were the fight will take place if negotiations go threw. Jennings is a former welterweight champion himself, but of a less notable title. He feels he has a great chance of defeating Cotto and becoming a known fighter in the states.

He went on to comment on how two big names came from his side of the world that nobody knew until late in their careers. Such as Ricky Hatton who didn't fight in the United States until his 40th fight, and wasn't widely known until he defeated Kostya Tszyu which was Hatton's 38th fight.

Second, he mentioned Champion Joe Calzaghe with a perfect record of 46 wins (32KO). Joe wasn't famous in the states until he picked Jeff Lacy apart in his 41st fight, and he only fought twice in the United States both in '08.

I'm not saying that Michael Jennings is the Hitman or The Pride of Wales, but you can't call someone out because they’re unknown. He has the same goal as Cotto does the championship and fame.

Both fighters records show that Miguel Cotto will process more punching power, but on paper they both poses good boxing ability. Cotto does have a credible record of opponents however with Michael Jennings fighting in England I couldn't comment on the toughness and skillfulness of his opponents that he has faced.

Paul Williams vs Verno Phillips and Chris Arreola vs Travis Walker: On HBO

Nathan Aguilar — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 16:41:02 -0500

Nov 29, 2008 in Ontario, California Paul Williams will be challenging current WBO interm junior middleweight champion Verno Phillips. The bout will be the main event aired on HBO's Boxing After Dark. Following the Heavyweight showdown between Chris Arreola vs. Travis Walker. It will be a night to remember and a night that can prove if Paul Williams, and Chris Arreola have what it takes to be big money names.

Champion Verno Phillips has a total of 54 fights with 42 Wins (21KO) ten loss , one no contest, and one draw. With great experience came a great reward he's won both the WBO light-middleweight titles, as well as the IBF version twice.

The IBF title he will be defending came from defeating the well known Cory Spinks. Although Paul Williams is knowing as the Punisher, Verno Phillips hasn't been knocked out since his fourth bout in 1988.

Challenger Paul "The Punisher" Williams vacated his WBO welterweight championship that he regained from Carlos Quintana in a devastating one round KO. Williams moved to junior middleweight division to gain exposure he felt he wasn't receiving as a welterweight . With a record near perfect Williams has a total of 36 fights with 35 Wins (26KO) one loss.

Paul Williams has defeated Antonio Margarito, Sharmba Mitchell, and knows how to close out fights with a high volume of punches. Ranked number three as a welterweight he has more then what it will take to be dominate at Jr. middleweight, and he proved he has the stopping power with his KO at Jr. middleweight earlier this year.

In the under card Chris Arreola will try to continue to grow, and show he has what it takes to be a force in the heavyweight division. With a record of 25 vins (22KO) zero loss spectators are wondering if he is a real contender or if he just hasn't faced real competition.

One thing is for sure he will face real competition Nov 29, against Travis Walker. Walker known as a great sparring partner at one time became a dream stopper to early undefeated prospects such as Jason Estrada, and George Garcia. He suffered on defeat to a early stoppage in the first round in which he never hit the mat. But after demanding a rematch he defeated T.J Wilson in the second round.

So on Nov 29, it looks like another great night for boxing. A chance for two fighters to build to their name, and for a champion to retain his title, and the dream stopper to do his job. The question is who will be able to be successful on HBO boxing after dark.

Ronald Winky Wright Vs. Michi Munoz: Winky Is Giving It One More Time Around

Nathan Aguilar — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 16:27:34 -0500

On Thursday, Dec 4, 2008 at the Snoqualmie Casino in Seattle, Ronald Winky Wright will be facing Michi Munoz at 165 pounds. Returning to the ring after losing a 12 round decision to Bernard Hopkins on July 27, 2007 in a PPV event at 171 pounds. His fight on Dec 4, will be televised on the cable network Versus and is scheduled for 10 rounds.

Ronald Winky Wright 51 Wins (25KO) 4 Loss 1 Draw is a former junior middleweight champion that has been chasing big name opponents for most of his career. Winky Wright and trainer Dan Birmingham began their journey 18 years ago, and most of their career was fought overseas were Winky made a big name for himself.

The decision to do his own promoting and having his trainer double as his manager left Winky Wright with a though time getting the big name fights in the Untied States. Dan Birmingham believed that hard work and a string of wins would speak for itself and the championship bouts would come. Dan had the boxer that was ready to take that route. What they didn't expect was that it would be hard to get a top opponent to take a fight against Winky Wright.

It wasn't because of overwhelming power, and unmatchable speed it was simply because he is consistent. Ronald Winky Wright has been called a technician by many because he goes into a fight and performs. He throws his jab, follows through with combinations and has tremendous defense never once backing down.

Winky did finally get some big name fights against fighters like Sugar Shane Mosley in which he came out victorious twice. Winky dominated Felix Trinidad in a 12 round decision, and challenged Jermaine Taylor for the middleweight title that ended in a draw. After the Taylor fight Ronald Wright moved up to fight Bernard Hopkins at 171 pounds and suffered a defeat by decision.

While promoting the Wright vs. Hopkins fight he signed a co-partnership with Golden Boy promotions in hope that it would lead to bigger fights and bigger paydays. Unfortunately he is the only top rank fighter from Golden Boy fighting on cable television at this point in his career. De La Hoya has his big PPV fight on Dec 6, Hopkins faced Kelly earlier this month, and Mosley is training to fight Antonio Margarito in Jan. for the title.

So with Golden Boy productions disregarding Winky Wrights achievements and skill he is once again taking the back seat and trying to make something out of it. Winky's opponent Michi Munoz 20 Wins (13KO) 1 Loss 2 NC is coming of a KO loss against Vanes Martirosyan.

Winky stated, that he is looking at this fight as a chance to shake off ring rust. He wants to fight at a 160 pounds in his next fight hopefully challenging for a title against Arthur Abraham or Kelly Pavlick. Even against a top opponent in a number one contender spot, but he did make sure to state it would be on HBO or PPV.

Ricky " The Hitman" Hatton Honored His Contract on the Magic Man

Nathan Aguilar — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 17:24:02 -0500

Paulie Malignaggi came to the ring with the same confidence and boldness he showed in the weighing and interviews. He even started the first round like a lot of people suspected throwing his jab and keeping the distance to throw Ricky Hatton off. But the Magic Man had his tricks exposed early as Ricky Hatton started to pick him apart.

The bell rang for the first round to begin and Ricky Hatton and Paulie Malignaggi came out of there corner. Paulie Malignaggi began to throw his jab with his two inch reach advantage it seemed like the perfect plan.

Not only did he have the reach advantage he had a great jab, and body movement to win the fight alone. Ricky Hatton looking uncomfortable tried to to throw a jab before stepping in to attack like he is custom to doing.

The jab of course wasn't crisp and normal looking because the Hitman is normally just jumping in and attacking his opponent overwhelming them with punches. But with new trainer Floyd Mayweather everyone had to expect Ricky Hatton to try and box as much as possible. In his latest interviews he spoke about wanting to use more boxing skills to prolong his career.

He named boxers like Arturo Gatti and Antonio Barrera who went from brawling and leaving it all on the mat to boxing and using experience to win fights. Ricky Hatton needs to realize Gatti and Barrera fought with the same intensity even win they chanced the game plan.

They knew when to go back to using there brawling and overwhelming ability to close out a fight. New skills are good to learn but don't throw away the ones that got you were you're at.

But give all credit to Ricky Hatton he fought a great ten rounds tonight. Floyd Mayweater Sr. could have watched the fight from home because Ricky Hatton won tonight's fight from experience, and old tactics he gained from ex trainer Billy Graham. He came out in the second round and used pressure stunning Paulie, and using his strength and will to wear him down.

For ten rounds Ricky Hatton had the Magic Man doing the same trick throwing his jab and nothing else. Every once in awhile he would try and throw a straight and even if it did land it didn't make a difference. In the 11th round trainer Buddy Mcgirt seen enough and threw in the towel knowing that Paulie needed a knockout to win, and there was no reason for him to continue to take the punches he was taking.

At the end when both fighters were interviewed Ricky Hatton talked about fighting the winner to the Oscar De La Hoya and Manny Pacquiao fight. And Paulie Malignaggi was expressing how he felt he was better then what the fans saw. He expressed very emotionally that he was hurt worse in the Cotto bout then this one, and there was no reason for the fight to be stopped and he was angry there was a KO on his record.

I personally agree with Buddy Mcgirt when your a trainer your job is to protect your fighter, and make sure there able to fight another day. Fighters will fight no matter what there experiencing because that is what they do fight.

So congrats to Ricky "The Hitman" Hatton, on his 11th round TKO.

Shane Mosley: Does He Still Have What It Takes Or Is It Fading Away?

Nathan Aguilar — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:48:40 -0500

Shane Mosley, also known as Sugar Shane Mosley is a welterweight sensation that began his career as a unforgettable lightweight. He held a record of 34 Wins (32K0) 0 Loss with nine successful title defensesof his IBF lightweight title. He then jumped up two weight classes to challenge fellow star and local fighter WBC champion Oscar De La Hoya.

Shane Mosley defeated Oscar De La Hoya in a 12 round decision in a very fast and entertaining bout. Although Mosley took home the WBC title he only took home a third of the purse that the fight made in the box office. When De La Hoya the house hold name took home the bulk of the earnings Mosley realized he still had some proving to do.

He started on a good foot defending his newly won title three times before he met a different fate. He took a challenge against Vernon Forrest which during that time wasn't a big name. To the boxing fans who only watch main events Vernnon Forrest had a unbeaten record, but he wasn't capable of beating Mosley.

Little did people know Vernon Forrest was a former Olympian that didn't only have a perfect record he also beat Shane Mosley in the amateurs.

Vernon Forrest defeated Shane Mosley in a 12 round decision winning the WBC title. Six months later Mosley had a rematch with Forrest, but fell short once more losing the second bout by decision as well. Sugar Shane Mosley didn't wait long about seven months later he tried to regain his name by fighting Raul Marquez but the match ended up in a NC in the third round.

With two defeats and a no contest scaring his perfect record Shane Mosley set a rematch fight up with Oscar De La Hoya. Oscar feeling the fight was close the first time and that Mosley was at a tough time in his career a rematch to avenge his one of two losses was at the perfect time. Mosley had a different out come in mind now more than ever was the time to come back and regain the name he once built for him self.

And that is what Mosley did he defeated Oscar De La Hoya for a second time in another 12 round decision. Smiling in the ring raising his hand he looked like he was on the rise once more. Unfortunately, it wasn't his time like a lot of great fighters Shane Mosley didn't run from big main events he embraced them like he did the Forrest fight.

Which led to him fighting Ronald Winky Wright a fighter that felt many ran from him because of his defensive skills and boxing ability. Ronald Wright was the second man to beat Shane Mosley not once, but twice in back to back bouts like Vernon Forrest did. Both fights went the distance ending in decision although Mosley was defeated he was never stopped by either fighter.

Mosley went on to win five more fights in a role with two knockouts beating Fernando Vargas, Jose Luis Cruz, Luis Collazo, David Estrada. He fell short on his next fight against hard hitting Miguel Cotto. He lost by decision failing to connect as many punches as Cotto did. Although it was a active fight Shane Mosley seemed to be on step and one jab behind the younger boxer.

On Sept 27, 2008 Mosley finished Ricardo Mayorga with a 12 round knockout. Even so Shane Mosley once again looked as though his timing was off, and he no longer had his crisp jab and hook. Fatigue, or not enough training since he was fighting someone he new he could dominate. I guess we won't know until his next fight.

Now with a record of 45 wins, five losses (38KO), one NC, Sugar Shane Mosley is scheduled to fight Antonio Margarito January 2009 for the WBA welterweight title. Sugar Shane Mosley has taken the big name fights like he's knowing for, but can he pull it off. He couldn't defeat Cotto and Margarito defeated him by TKO in the 11th round.

We will just have to find out when Shane Mosley steps into the ring with Barnard Hopkins trainer Bouie Fisher after firing his father for a second time.

Ricky Hatton Vs. Paulie Malignaggi: Easy Win Or Bad Decision?

Nathan Aguilar — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 08:34:42 -0500

On Sat. November 22, 2008 at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, NV, Ricky Hatton will be facing Paulie Malignaggi in a junior welterweight clash.

Many believe that Ricky Hatton is taking this fight for a safe and easy win, but Paulie Malignaggi and his corner feel he has just the right style that will help him come up with an upset win.

Malignaggi (25-1, 5 KOs) is a fighter who lacks no confidence and he has held championships. In his mind, he should be one of the top boxers of this century. "The Magic Man" has the same swagger that Prince Ahmed, Hector Camacho, and Hector Camacho Jr. brought to conferences and to the ring.

The one thing he doesn't bring like those guys, is the ability to knock opponents out.

With only five knockouts in 26 fights, Paulie doesn't have the explosive style that fans are drawn too. He also doesn't cause a big threat to opponents that have had their jaw tested like Ricky Hatton did against Floyd Mayweather Jr.

The threat he does pose, however, is stamina, speed, and endurance. He is a skilled boxer with a quick jab and fast head movement that can throw any fighter off.

Paulie Malignaggi also proved he can take a punch when he faced Miguel Cotto. Although he lost the fight, Malginaggi courageously took head and body punches from a strong Cotto and ended the fight on his feet, showing amazing heart and confidence.

You couldn't help but notice that Paulie Malignaggi believed he was in the right place at the right time at that moment, fighting the best.

The stakes are high for Ricky Hatton (44-1, 31 KOs) in this fight. Will he make a comeback or a departure like long time former trainer, Billy Graham, did leading up to this matchup? Hatton found a new trainer in Floyd Mayweather Sr., but the big question is what will be the out come of the merger?

Hatton had a great run with Billy Graham in his corner, with their father and son-like relationship.

They only saw one defeat and that was against the aforementioned Floyd Mayweather Jr., which was expected, since many claim he as the best pound-for-pound at the time.

"The Hitman's" bully-type style has worked against many opponents, and has stopped big time fighters such as Kostya Tszya and Jose Luis Castillo. Fighters who were willing to stand toe-to-toe with him.

However, when he has gone against fighters who relied on boxing ability and not strength, Hatton struggled.

He barely came out with the win against Luis Collazo because of the slick movement and jab Luis fought with, and last I checked Paulie Malignaggi was just that type of fighter.

Ricky could have worked on his jab and head movement with Mayweather Sr., but your not going to get that much change of style from a veteran fighter like Hatton.

You’re most likely to see frustration in Hatton's corner when Floyd Sr., is screaming for the jab and for Ricky Hatton to move side to side. Especially if Ricky can't find the rhythm or the posture he needs to throw that jab.

Hopefully if Mayweather did change Hatton’s training method, it was the conditioning and stamina to go 12 rounds.

My prediction is Ricky and Paulie will do what they to best.

Paulie will jab and move as much as possible and try to get into Ricky Hatton's head. His conditioning and experience with fights going the distance will give him an advantage in the late rounds.

Ricky Hatton may try to jab and show some boxing ability until he realizes he will need to immobilize Paulie to get some affective contact to happen. Ricky Hatton will need to bully and wrestle Paulie to be effective, if he makes it a boxing match he's setting himself up for defeat.

Style will make the fight. The winner will be the one that can make it his type of fight a brawl or a hit and miss.

Antonio Margarito: A Tornado Has Been Spotted!

Nathan Aguilar — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 16:26:35 -0500

Antonio Margaritothe WBA welterweight champion of the world has been under the radar for many years. Born in Torrance, CA. USA, and know resides in Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico. Margarito is a big welterweight standing at height 5'11", and has a reach of 73".

He is fighting with the same frame of a Jr. middleweight, which is probably no coincidence why he always publicized that he dreamed of fighting Fernando Vargas, Oscar De La Hoya, or Shane Mosley.

The Tijuana Tornado has a record of 37 wins 27 KO five loss zero loss by KO and one no contest = 43 matches 237 total rounds with a 62.79% knockout rate. Since the year 2000 Antonio Margarito has been very active with 20 fights with 18 wins and only two defeats. One loss came by the way of a doctor stoppage from a accidental headbutt in the 10th round. Which happen to be how the no contest happen on his record by the same opponent.

The second, and most recent loss came form Paul Williams 35-1-0 (26KO) ranked number two by Ring Magazine and Boxing Monthly. Paul Williams won the WBO championship with a 12 round decision over Antonio Margarito. Which Margarito took as a learning experience, the late starts he was known for didn't happen in his next three fights. His next fight against Golden Johnson for the vacant WBO Inter-Continental Welterweight Title ended in a first round by TKO.

Antonio Margarito started the 2008 year with a agenda to rise, by challenging the top opponents like he always has. It started with Kermit Cintron April 12, 2008 in Atlantic City, New Jersey. It was a rematch that Kermit been wanting for a long time he claimed that he was distracted with personal issues when they met the first time in 2005 which ended in a Fifth round TKO.

Kermit Cintron looked to be ready with legendary trainer Emanuel Stewart in his corner coming off of some dominating wins himself, but the fight showed otherwise. Antonio Margarito dominated Cintron. Kermit Cintron only made it one round longer before being Knocked Out in the Sixth round. Antonio Margarito won the IBF Championship.

His second fight of the year was a Mega Fight, Antonio Margarito vs. Miguel Cotto for the WBA Title. It was Miguel Cotto's fifth defense coming off a win over Sugar Shane Mosley. Many thought Cotto was going to destroy the challenger Margarito who forfeited the IBF and WBO titles to fight Cotto for the WBA championship.

The fight was a great one. Antonio Margarito circled the ring with Cotto against the ropes like he was dog on a chain taking any snap he could get. Cotto hit him with blows that knocked guys out cold, and Margarito took them and stepped forward for more. By the ninth round it was Miguel Cotto who looked like he was taking all the blows. With a numb look in his eyes, and his mouth open dripping blood Cotto showed he was defeated.

Then it came the 11th round TKO and in the corner of the refs eye Miguel Cotto's uncle on the mat waving the white towel calling it quiets. Antonio Margarito was the new WBA champion.

Now where going into to 2009 and Golden Boy Production and Top Rank Promotions announced Antonio Margarito vs. Shane MosleyJan 24 ,2009. The hunt is over for Margarito's camp, and one of the big fights they have been asking for is here. Now its up to Antonio Margarito and long time trainer Javier Capitello to make something out of it.

UFC 91: What's Next for Brock Lesnar?

Nathan Aguilar — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 18:37:51 -0500

Brock Lesnar landed a right hand behind the ear of the legendary champion Randy Couture, sending him to the mat. Brock seized the opportunity by pounding the champion with blow after blow until referee stoppage at 3:07 in the second round.

What many thought was a long shot and a unfair handout ended up being one for the books.

Brock Lesnar. with a MMA record 3-1. is now a champion once again, this time in his new career as a Professional MMA Fighter. He is turning heads like he always has done with his size, speed and strength.

Headlining main events against top opponents is the only way Brock said he would have it, and with the salary Dana White threw at him, it was the only kind he was going to get.

Among his short, but successful, quest he faced opponents such as Min Soo Kim, finishing him in the first round by submission in the way of strikes. Then he was off to the UFC, facing champions from the start, such as interim champion challenger and ex-champion Frank Mir.

He got an early advantage on Mir with his size and strength alone but fell short from lack of experience alone.

Then he showed his athletic ability and strong will against ex-champion Heath Herring. The fight went the distance but was all Lesnar, leaving Heath Herring with the aftermath of a not so pretty face and a look of defeat.

We all know what was to come next at only three fights Brock Lesnar was to face Randy Couture the undisputed champion that was ready to come out of retirement when a dream match between him and Fedor Emelianenko fell short.

Instead, Randy Couture came back to the UFC to face a young and strong opponent in Brock Lesnar. In which a lot of fans, critics and Couture's corner said, it was to early for Brock to get this shot. What most people forget is that Randy Couture won his first heavyweight title in the UFC on his fourth fight around the same age. They say history repeats itself, so does that mean we have another Randy Couture in the UFC?

Or do we have a bigger force to deal with? Brock Lesnar is a ex-Big-10 champion at 265 pounds, who moves like he weighs 180 pounds. We will see when he faces the winner of the Nogueira vs. Mir for the interim heavyweight championship.

I guarantee you after watching Brock Lesnar's last two battles if he faces Frank Mir, it won't be as easy and quick as their first fight.

Brock did accept the victory like a champion, thanking the UFC, Dana White, Randy Couture, and GOD. Explaining his cockiness as confidence in hard work and gave nothing but respect and honor to the ex-champion Randy Couture.

Manny Pacquiao vs. Oscar De La Hoya: Golden Opportunity

Nathan Aguilar — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 01:22:09 -0500

On Dec. 6, 2008, there will be millions of people receiving an early Christmas present when two of the best fighters of today meet in the ring. At 147 pounds, Oscar De La Hoya moved down from a 154 pounds and Manny Pacquiao moved up from 135 pounds, although that weight was for only one fight. Manny Pacquiao is more natural at 130 pounds.

Both fighters have a large following from loyal fans, critics, and sports analysts, and every one has the same question...how will the biggest fight of the year turn out? Now, I know you've read and heard everyone covering or talking about this fight say, "this is a dream match." They would say that it is the most anticipated match up of the century, but lets get real. Although I'm excited to see this fight as much as the next guy, De La Hoya has had many dream fights that turned out to be nightmares.

An example is Oscar De La Haya vs. Trinidad, De La Hoyo vs. Hopkins, De La Hoya vs. Mosley, and De La Hoya vs. Mayweather. Now don't get me wrong, I watched each fight waiting for Oscar De La Hoya to make history out of these fights. They were the best against the best, and you rarely see that anymore. But, lets face it, I just named dream fights that ended up nightmares and added up to Oscar Da La Hoya's five defeats.

Oscar has fought and defeated many strong opponents and he has been robbed on at least two of those fights I named. But, for the last 13 fights, De La Hoya hasn't closed a complete 12 rounds. On the other hand, you have Manny Pacquiao, who is known and good at fighting the 12th round just as fast and strong as the first.

Manny Pacquiao is a fighter from the Philippines that fights like he came straight out of Tijuana, Mexico. He fights with heart, speed, and power and both hands showing dominating power over great top ranked boxers like Barrera, Morales, Marquez, and Diaz.

Pacquiao's camp stated that Pacquiao is having the best camp ever and it will show on Dec. 6. We will see if the distractions from his popularity has caught up with him or if he is still focused on his fighting. He has had past camps where Freddy Roach has had trouble getting him focused, and he will need to be focused on fight night.

He will be going against Oscar De La Hoya, a champion caliber fighter that is naturally 14 pounds heavier than he is with a strong chin and heavy hands.

So, my prediction if it goes 12 rounds, is "The Pac Man" Manny Pacquiao will take the victory. If it is a knock out, De La Hoya has a 90 percent chance in having the victory from his size and skill alone. But, good luck to two of the greatest boxers of our time, and I hope it is the fight of the century.