SBNation.com User Blog: Kory Kitchen

Broner vs. Malignaggi: WBC says Broner informed them he plans to return to 135

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 17 May 2013 17:54:35 -0000

On June 22 Adrien Broner, the WBC lightweight champion and widely regarded as the top lightweight in the world, will be moving up to face Paulie Malignaggi at welterweight. Much has been speculated pertaining to whether Broner will stay at 147, settle in at 140, or even attempt to return to 135 after the fight. Naturally, much of it will likely depend on how he fares in the ring as a welterweight, and if the results are a positive or negative sign.

However, according to World Boxing News, Broner requested to the WBC board that he fight Malignaggi as the WBC lightweight champion. The WBC board was also told that Broner would be returning to fight at 135 after his bout with Malignaggi at 147. In his temporary absence, the WBC has ordered an interim title fight between Nihito Arawaka and Omar Figueroa in the lightweight division.

Here is what WBC spokesperson Mauricio Sulaiman had to say on the matter:

"Adrien Broner requested to the WBC board of governors to fight Paul Malignaggi in a welterweight fight, but as the WBC lightweight champion. We were told that after the fight he will return to the lightweight division and after the WBC rules contemplated this scenario we realized there are several precedents. The WBC have now ordered an interim title fight between Arakawa and Figueroa and the winner will fight Adrien Broner"

If Broner does return to 135, he would then face the winner of Arawaka - Figueroa. At least that would be the WBC's plan.

So is there anything to make of the fact that Broner has told the WBC he plans on returning to the lightweight division after the fight? Is it really in the cards or not? If not, then why waste everyone's time by saying you would return to the class in the first place? I can't think of any benefit, really, because the Malignaggi fight is not a title defense for him or anything. It's a fight for Malignaggi's belt, whether Broner holds a lightweight belt or not. Even if he were to lose to Malignaggi, it would seem a difficult proposition to make it back down to 135 unless he weighs in at something around 140 for the bout.

Joe Calzaghe says he would have beaten Andre Ward

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 17 May 2013 15:50:42 -0000

Joe Calzaghe was one of the best fighters of the previous decade. A long-running WBO 168 pound titlist, Calzaghe became most famous in 2008 when he moved up to light heavyweight and defeated both Bernard Hopkins and Roy Jones Jr. Calzaghe, along with Jones, is widely regarded as one of the absolute best super middleweights of all-time. However, Andre Ward is currently campaigning (well, about once a year now) at super middle, and is making his own run toward greatness. Lately, some have pondered about who would win a matchup between Calzaghe and Ward were the two to share a ring. Calzaghe doesn't hesitate with his stance on the proposed dream fight.

Calzaghe's argument, via Boxing Scene:

"I would have beaten Ward. Like I say, people can judge styles, but I can adapt to every style and mine was harder to hit. I think Ward is good in his comfort zone, but I would have got him out of that and wouldn't have fancied it. It would have been a good fight. There's no ego. It is belief. I think it would have been a chess match," Calzaghe told Sky Sports.

I do agree that it would have been very good fight, but disagree that Calzaghe's style was more difficult to hit. I rarely see Ward take a flush shot, but I recall Calzaghe getting dropped by an old Jones, Byron Mitchell (which was a quick stoppage victory for Calzaghe), and Hopkins. And if it had become a chess match, I don't believe that would have favored the volume puncher, which is what Calzaghe was.

So what do you guys think of the matchup? Say if it were prime Calzaghe squaring off with Ward, who would you take?

I'm sorry. I mean WHO R U PICKING?

Peterson vs. Matthysse: Matthysse not worried about the judges

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 17 May 2013 14:30:03 -0000

For a guy that has suffered through two very close decision losses, Lucas Matthysse sounds content with the judges for this Saturday's fight with Lamont Peterson. His first loss was a debatable, though not unjust, decision loss to Zab Judah in 2010 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. That was followed only seven months later with a highly questionable verdict against Devon Alexander. The fight took place in St. Charles, Missouri, right next to Alexander's hometown of St. Louis., and two of the judges somehow found a way to give the fight to Alexander.

Now Matthysse returns to New Jersey for his bout with Peterson. The fight will take place at the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, and Matthysse has to be pleased (along with fans) that none of the three judges working the fight had anything to do with his losses to Judah and Alexander. The three appointed judges are Eugene Grant, Barbara Perez, and Luis Rivera. Grant and Perez are from New Jersey, Rivera from New York.

Matthysse's response to capabilities of the judges, via Boxing Scene, was straightforward, like his fighting:

"I'm not worried about the (judging). I'm going to come out to do my work. I'm going to work just like I've been working hard for the fight and I believe the judges will give a clear decision."

As noted earlier, I do not feel the Judah decision was unjust. I had it 114-113 for Judah, though I can see it close either way. Matthysse waited a little too long to let his hands go that night for my liking. The Alexander fight, however, I thought clearly belonged to him. I had it 96-93 for Matthysse.

Either way, it looks to be a great fight tomorrow night. I'm sure many of you are reading this and thinking, "There's no way in hell it goes to the cards anyways, Kory!". You may be right. Only one way to find out.

Mayweather vs. Guerrero: Will Mayweather's issues with southpaws be a difference in the fight?

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 03 May 2013 23:48:54 -0000

One of the more consistent comments when it comes to suggesting ways to defeat Floyd Mayweather is to bring up the idea that he has more problems with southpaws than he does right-handers. Zab Judah and DeMarcus Corley each gave him some issues in their respective fights, and Victor Ortiz may have been having his best round yet against Floyd until he accidentally pressed the R2 button on his controller and did his Dirty Move. So why does it appear a defensive genius like Mayweather has problems with men who lead with their right fist instead of their left?

Mayweather’s defense is really built to slip and counter an orthodox boxer’s power punches. With Mayweather typically leaning away from a right-handed fighter’s power hand, he is able to see the punch coming well before it is able to detonate on its target. When the right hand comes, he simply slides back from it or blocks it entirely with his front shoulder. If the opponent has squared his feet enough, “Money” will often counter with a quick, straight right hand of his own. The counter isn’t designed to be a devastating blow, but it does look flashy to the judges (and the crowd) when his opponent gets their head snapped back like they have been sniped. This is a move he used to great effect against Shane Mosley who would bring his back foot forward when throwing his right.

The left hook does not present much more of a problem. Mayweather’s usual guard is to lean back and bring his right arm up at a 90 degree angle next to his face. More times than not, just leaning back is enough to make a man’s left hook miss. If it does not catch air, it is still rendered useless by simply being blocked by Mayweather’s right arm that’s planted firmly against his face.

Uppercuts are not something Mayweather has much of an issue with because it’s a rare occasion when he bends over at the waist with his chin facing forward.

However, there is one punch from an orthodox stance that has, on occasion, given Mayweather some problems. It is the most basic, yet most important punch of any: the jab. The jab is different because it has no angle. There is usually no warning for it, and leaning back can just cause one to still absorb the blow. Two boxers have had some legitimate success against him with their jabs: Oscar de la Hoya and Miguel Cotto. Each man was able to land some flush jabs, especially Cotto who was able to draw blood from Mayweather’s nose by the middle of their bout. It should be noted that both Cotto and De la Hoya are naturally left-handed men who fought out of the orthodox stance.

Now, let’s translate that to a southpaw’s punching angle, which is how Guerrero will be fighting. The jab that a right-handed boxer throws comes out at a very similar angle to that of a straight left hand from a southpaw boxer. In other words, Guerrero’s best punch will come to Mayweather at a similar angle that a jab from an orthodox fighter would. That can’t be anything but good news for ‘The Ghost”.

Mayweather’s defense is not tailor-made to stop southpaws the same way it is when it comes to neutralizing right-handers. His posture leaves him open up the middle for the straight left, and somewhat also for the right hook (I’m using the term “open” loosely here. I don’t mean this to sound like he suddenly becomes Brandon Rios or anything.). Holding his arm at a 90 degree angle next to his face does not block the straight left, and the shoulder-roll/counter move is generally not as open for the taking.

In addition to the aforementioned straight left hand, the right hook can be brought over the front shoulder of Mayweather. The right hook from a southpaw is a much shorter punch than the right cross from an orthodox fighter, and can also be more difficult to see out of one’s peripheral vision. In fact, it was a right hook from a southpaw, Judah to be exact, that has produced the only real knockdown of Mayweather’s career (though Richard Steele ruled it a slip). DeMarcus Corley was also able to sting Mayweather a couple of times from a left-handed stance.

The usual response from Floyd when it comes to dealing with southpaws is to take a few rounds to see what works and what doesn’t, and then adjust accordingly. After struggling some with Judah in the early going, he found a way to time Judah based on his tendencies. He also switched his defensive posture, going from the shoulder-roll to a more traditional “ear-muff” type of hand placement. The change in hand placement enabled him to block the right hook at all times while keeping his own right hand cocked in a position to fire straight out at any time.

So what does any of this mean for Robert Guerrero? Does Guerrero being a lefty have any bearing on the fight at all? And if it does, will Floyd just make the usual adjustments and dominate down the stretch? Or was it the speed of guys like Judah and Corley that allowed them to have some success against Mayweather? Speed that Guerrero cannot come close to replicating.

Tyson Fury vs. Kubrat Pulev: Negotiations begin for IBF eliminator

Kory Kitchen — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 18:03:34 -0000

According to Boxing Scene, Hennessy Sports and Sauerland Event have began negotiations for a fight between Tyson Fury and Kubrat Pulev. The bout will be to determine who will be inserted as the top contender for the IBF heavyweight belt. Currently, Pulev is ranked number one, Fury number two. Pulev also holds the EBU heavyweight title, and would be making a defense should the fight come together.

Nothing is set as of yet with regards to the time and location of the fight. Obviously, this is still very preliminary. In fact, whoever wins the bout will have to wait for a little while for other things to sort themselves out.

The winner will be penciled in to face the winner of Wladimir Klitschko and Alexander Povetkin (it does appear to finally be happening). However, before those two get in the ring together they each have to make successful title defenses next month. Klitsschko holds the WBA/IBF titles, while Povetkin has the WBA "regular" belt. Klitschko is the WBA "Super" champion, which is code for "This guy probably won't lose any time soon so we need to get another belt out there and make some money off another poor fellow".

Povetkin's manager Vladimir Hryunov bid an astounding $23 million for the rights to Klitschko - Povetkin to happen by August just last week.

Martinez vs. Murray: Ricky Hatton feels Murray should be middleweight champion

Kory Kitchen — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 16:20:47 -0000

Martin Murray performed much better than nearly everyone had anticipated Saturday night against undisputed middleweight champion Sergio Martinez. Unfortunately, for the Hatton Promotions contender, it was not quite enough to unseat Martinez and he went home with the losing end of a close unanimous decision. It was a good, legitimately close fight that could have been closely scored for either man. Not surprisingly, Murray's promoter Ricky Hatton was a bit sore after the loss according to World Boxing News.

"I think Martin should be the middleweight champion of the world," a dejected Hatton said. "It was a good competitive fight but there was only one winner for me. When you go into the lion's den you have to rip the title from the champion and although he couldn't finish as strong as he would have liked, Martin was the aggressor. He also scored a knockdown and it should have been two in my opinion.

"i think if one good thing did come out of the fight, it's that we now know that Martin is the best middleweight in Britain as his performance against Martinez eclipsed Macklin and Barker's by a long way."

It's very understandable for Hatton to feel Murray deserved to win. From my couch I scored it for him 114-113, and it truly did appear the slip should have been ruled a knockdown. But what's happened, happened. Murray has once again proven himself to be a good middleweight contender, if nothing else. That has to count for something.

Do you think Murray deserved to win? Who is the top European middleweight contender now? It's getting to be a crowded bunch and, of course, there's also Gennady Golovkin to throw in there. Despite Martinez being on the shelf for a while with a broken hand, the 160 pound division could have some very intriguing matchups in the future.

Canelo says he will fight on September 14, gives PR answer to Juan Manuel Marquez

Kory Kitchen — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:16:56 -0000

Canelo Alvarez is definitely not backing down from getting the September 14 date. In an interview on Boxing Scene Radio, Canelo confirmed that he is going to be fighting on September 14, regardless of whether Top Rank and HBO also attempt to also have a card on the same date.

Here is what Canelo had to say about the idea of competing cards, via Boxing Scene:

"I like challenges and if they (Top Rank) want to do it I look at it as a challenge to motivate me. I feel bad (for the fans) but that is a date we already had. I always fight on Mexican Independence Day," Canelo explained.

I don't think there is any doubt that Canelo and Golden Boy will win this battle. If Top Rank were to put on a show it would likely be Juan Manuel Marquez - Tim Bradley at this stage. Despite coming off the huge win over Manny Pacquiao, Marquez is not going to go head-to-head with Canelo on pay-per-view. It would be suicide. Throw in the idea that Canelo will probably be facing Puerto Rican star Miguel Cotto, and it all but seals the deal. Bob Arum has even stated in the past that he would not go against a Floyd Mayweather pay-per-view and, though Canelo is not on Mayweather's level as TV draw, he appears to be on the brink of becoming the next mega power for pay-per-view boxing. I have the feeling Arum will cede the date eventually. And this is not even taking into consideration that cable companies would probably not allow it to happen in the first place.

Canelo also briefly discusses what Marquez had to say about him not being an elite fighter yet because there are, according to Marquez, other guys out there he needs to beat to prove he is great. Canelo's answer to Marquez was pure public relations speak.

"I don't have an opinion on that. I respect everyone and everyone has the right to their own opinion."

Unless something changes, Canelo will probably have the last laugh in September.

Danny Garcia says one more fight at 140 before moving up

Kory Kitchen — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:04:26 -0000

Fresh off his tight victory over Zab Judah this past weekend at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, WBA/WBC junior welterweight champion Danny Garcia is now contemplating a move up to 147 in the near future. Boxing Scene is reporting that Garcia has said he would like to have one more fight at junior welterweight, possibly in the late-summer, before moving up to welterweight.

Here is what Garcia said, via Boxing Scene:

"I am getting bigger, I've been at 140 for a long time and I don't want to get to the point where I'm training just to lose weight and it's affecting my performances. So I probably have one more at 140....in the summer time it's going to be hot and I probably have to go up to 147," Garcia said.

Yes, it does tend to be hot in the summer. Anyways, the natural speculation here is the question about who his final fight at 140 would be against. Everybody and their mother wants to see Garcia tangle with the winner of next month's matchup between Lucas Matthysse and Lamont Peterson. Garcia has yet to seem very inclined to get in the ring with Matthysse in the past, though it could also be that Golden Boy doesn't want the fight because Garcia likely has a bigger drawing potential than the Argentinian slugger does. A loss to Matthysse would certainly damage that. After his win over Judah, Garcia was even asked who he thought would win between Matthysse and Peterson. Predictably, he picked Peterson.

Will Matthysse be Garcia's last opponent at 140? Who knows, but probably not. There have been some rumors about Garcia being a future opponent for Floyd Mayweather. Of course, nearly everyone seems to rumored to be his opponent at some point in his career so that may be nothing. However, if it is a possibility (Garcia is with Golden Boy, after all) then I wouldn't expect Garcia to risk that status against anyone with a chance of knocking him off.

Arreola vs. Stiverne results: Stiverne floors, decisions Arreola

Kory Kitchen — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 03:06:51 -0000

In what was easily one the best heavyweight fights shown on American premium cable in recent years, Bermane Stiverne earned a unanimous decision over Chris Arreola to receive an eventual shot at the WBC heavyweight title. The official scores were 118-109 and 117-110 (twice) all for Stiverne. Bad Left Hook scored it 116-111, also for Stiverne.

Arreola appeared to edge the first two stanzas before being dropped hard at the end of the third round by a huge right cross. The punch drew blood from Arreola's nose as well, possibly even breaking it and making it difficult for him to breathe as the rounds passed by.

The remaining rounds were largely controlled by Stiverne's jab and hard hooks to Arreola's still flabby midsection. The two had some truly hellacious exchanges at times, and the final round was dramatic as Arreola desperately tried to land the big blow needed to end the fight. Alas, he could not get it done, and Stiverne took home a deserved decision victory.

The loss is certainly a bit of a setback for Arreola, who, though exciting, is clearly limited as to what he is capable of in the ring. He appears to be someone that struggles to get over the hump when facing other top contenders.

The bout is definitely worth checking out at some point. It won't be a Fight of the Year candidate or anything, but if you like heavyweight slugfests, you're sure to like this fight.

Martinez vs. Murray results: Martinez gets off the canvas to decision Murray

Kory Kitchen — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 01:52:32 -0000

It certainly wasn't Sergio Martinez's best performance ever but, in the end, I'm sure he'll take the "W" regardless. Despite a great effort from challenger Martin Murray, Martinez was once again able to scrape himself off the canvas to retain his middleweight crown via decision.

All three judges were in agreement with scores of 115-112 in favor of the Argentinian star who was fighting in his home country in front of thousands of adoring fans. Bad Left Hook scored the fight 114-113 for Murray, the eighth round knockdown being the difference.

Maybe the added pressure of fighting in front of his home fans made it more difficult, maybe not. What is for sure is that Murray was able to put up a much better fight than what most had anticipated going into the bout. Martinez appeared to be in control after the first three rounds with his straight left hand and slick footwork dictating the action. However, Murray was not going to be content with just showing up, and gave a spirited effort that was deserving of the moment. He took over in the middle rounds by cutting off the ring effectively and landing straight right hands with good regularity. Ever the champion, Martinez rallied late, perhaps sweeping the championship rounds.

On the undercard Luis carlos Abregu won a ten round decision over Antonin Decarie. Abregu would seem to be in line for a title shot soon.

Bob Arum proposes Nonito Donaire to fight Juan Manuel Lopez in Puerto Rico

Kory Kitchen — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 18:02:35 -0000

Despite having lost his junior featherweight title this past Saturday following a disappointing performance against crafty Guillermo Rigondeaux, plans are already being drawn up for Donaire's comeback opponent. Adding in the fact that Donaire is also set to have surgery on his right shoulder, these plans would certainly seem subject to change. Nevertheless, Boxing Scene is reporting that Top Rank head man Bob Arum is already discussing who Donaire will fight when the Filipino slugger eventually does make his return to the ring.

The man Arum mentioned to take on a returning Donaire in the fall is none other than Juan Manuel Lopez. Lopez is a human highlight reel; always coming forward and ever hurt. In other words, Donaire will not have to look far to find him like he did for Rigondeaux. Lopez will be in his face, and Arum knows that which is surely why he is considering this fight.

Here is what Arum had to say, via Boxing Scene:

Top Rank promoter Bob Arum told Boxing Scene/Manila Standard and ABS-CBN that Donaire "really struggled to make the weight and I think that took a little zip out of him and this kid Rigondeaux was awfully fast and awfully elusive."

Arum told (Boxing Scene) Donaire would "fight Lopez at 126 pounds in Puerto Rico towards the end of the year."

Arum also makes brief mention that the scheduling of the fight would depend on how well the operation goes. Donaire and his wife are also expecting their first child, and had planned to take a little break regardless.

Personally, I like the proposed matchup. I think it would be a slugfest while it lasted. I don't know how excited Donaire would be about going to face Lopez in Puerto Rico, but it would sure be a lively arena to say the least. One issue with the fight could be that Lopez has stated his desire to move up in weight. Earlier this year he discussed wanting to fight Mikey Garcia, but only if it took place at a 128 catchweight. I have my doubts about Lopez being able to make 126, and being fully functional if he does.

What do you all say to this proposal? Good idea or not?

Alexander vs. Brook: Brook is officially out of fight with foot injury

Kory Kitchen — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 15:48:24 -0000

A few days ago it was announced that Kell Brook had suffered a double stress fracture in his foot just a month ahead of his impending fight with Devon Alexander. At the time, it had not been decided if Brook would be forced to withdraw or not, though the decision to remove himself from the contest seemed inevitable. Well, today the inevitable has come true. Brook's promoter Eddie Hearn has announced that Brook will have to back out of the May 18 date due to the foot injury.

Here, from World Boxing News, is what Hearn had to say:

"Kell has recently developed pain in his right foot. Following specialist review and investigations over the last ten days he has been diagnosed with a stress fracture of his right fourth metatarsal and a further injury of his right navicular, both of which require on-going treatment including withdrawal from full training.

"As a result of these injuries and the time required to recover he has been advised that he will not be medically fit to fight on May 18.

"Obviously this is a huge blow and Kell is devastated but we have had to make the right decision for Kell Brook the fighter. We will speak with Golden Boy and hope to reschedule the bout in the near future."

So, yeah, the fight's not happening....again. It's a tough break but whatchya gonna do?

It's been reported that Alexander still plans on fighting on May 18, though the opponent will likely be a soft touch given the lack of time between now and then. Hearn says he would like to reschedule the fight (again), but one has to wonder if that's an exercise in futility. I don't know if I have ever heard of a fight being scheduled for a fourth time.

Like so much in boxing, we will just have to wait and see.

Canelo vs. Trout: Trout welcomes Mayweather and Martinez as future foes

Kory Kitchen — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 13:53:09 -0000

This coming Saturday, Austin Trout faces the biggest fight of his life (though his last one was pretty big too) when he gets in the ring with Canelo Alvarez in front of a huge live crowd in San Antonio and what should be a sizable TV audience as well. The bout appears to have people split down the middle as to who dey r picking. If Trout wins, where does he go from being victorious in such a big event? Who would he want next?

Boxing Scene caught up with Trout to ask him such questions about his future. Here is what the WBA junior middleweight had to say:

"You know there's still plenty of names in the 154 pound division. There's a lot of name, it's a stacked division. And if not 154, we got the middleweights right there that have a bunch of names. (Sergio) Maravilla (Martinez), (Gennady) GGG (Golovkin), and even (Matthew) Macklin and (Martin) Murray and all these guys. I don't think there's a shortage of people to fight," said Trout.

One person Trout would jump at the chance to fight is Floyd Mayweather Jr., boxing biggest cash cow. It's no secret that should Canelo defeat Trout there is a very good chance he would move on to a superfight with Mayweather. Naturally, Trout would like to crash that party the same way he ruined the proposed Canelo - Miguel Cotto fight (despite some people's best efforts to salvage it).

"You know it'd be nice. When we get to that road we'll definitely figure out which way we're going. But I want to be the best. The pound for pound best and who does everybody consider to be the pound for pound best fight now? (Floyd Mayweather) Well then that's where we need to go and get that done as well.

"But you know nothing is going to happen if I don't get passed Saul so we'll cross that bridge when we get there,. Like I said, there are plenty of names. We don't want to wait (as Floyd) only fights once a year. I'm trying to fight more than that. I'm down to fight (Sergio) "Maravilla" (Martinez) who is also on that pound for pound list. I'm down to fight anybody who claims to be the best just to have my own stake as the pound for pound."

Thus far, Trout certainly does not appear like a guy content to fight the minimum. Before signing to fight Canelo for recognition as the world's top junior middle, he beat Cotto in Madison Square Garden in front of a raucous crowd. These are two huge fights for him to do back-to-back (it would be two huge fights for anybody, frankly). I doubt Mayweather would want to have much to do with him if he were to defeat Canelo on Saturday, but who knows? I didn't exactly expect him to get the fight with Canelo either after the way he handled Cotto.

But, of course, he has to beat Canelo Alvarez in front of his adoring fans in San Antonio. In front of three judges that will hear their every scream.

For the sport of boxing, Tim Bradley is the best option for Manny Pacquiao's next opponent

Kory Kitchen — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 18:30:09 -0000

Several months from now one of boxing's absolute biggest stars will return from his hiatus and enter a boxing ring for the first time since being knocked totally unconscious by a right hand he never saw coming. The site of Manny Pacquiao laying face-first into the mat, as motionless as a deceased individual, was a shocking vision for one's eyes to communicate to one's brain. The man who is regarded by some as the greatest Asian boxer to ever live, as well as one of the all-time great southpaws to ever lace on a pair of boxing gloves, was knocked out like any ol' common man can be knocked out. A disenchanting revelation for many, a cause for delight for some.

Nevertheless, we know what happens now. Pacquiao rides off into the sunset as a millionaire, dead set on never returning to the ring. Nah. The truth, as we really do all know, is that he will return. Press releases and such will tell us how he will have a renewed vigor and is ready to gain his revenge on Juan Manuel Marquez. I doubt it. Pacquiao is who he is by this stage. A full-time politician who takes a little break twice a year or so to make around 40 million dollars total from boxing.

The real question we are currently pondering about Senator Pacquiao is not if he is coming back to a boxing ring any time soon. It's simply who is he going to be in the ring with?

I admit that in the immediate aftermath of Pacquiao's vanquishing at the hands of Marquez, I assumed there would be no debate. It was going to be a fifth fight with Marquez, and if you thought different, you had probably picked the wrong week to quit sniffing glue. Gradually, as always in boxing, things change and certainties become, well, less certain.

Whether it be a negotiating ploy or his honest-to-God opinion, Marquez has not seemed excited about the possibility of a fifth showdown with his most common dance partner. Despite being guaranteed the largest purse of his career, the Mexican star looks to be in no rush to tango with Pacquiao for a mind-boggling (by today's standards) fifth time. And, let me just say that I am content with his decision. There's someone else whom I prefer to see Pacquiao have another go-round with.

Oddly enough, Tim Bradley has become a bigger star than ever by defeating Ruslan Provodnikov than by beating Manny Pacquiao. Ok, ok. I know. It was regarded by most as a total crap decision. Still, just being on pay-per-view with Manny Pacquiao and fighting through what his camp claimed were two broken ankles should have been enough to raise Bradley's profile a bit one would think, no? Throw in the fact that Bradley got a controversial decision that he justified by saying he felt he won eight of the 12 rounds, and one would have to figure he would at least get some serious heel heat for all of this.

Well, Bradley appeared to be in about the same position after the fight that he was before it. He was still one of the top 15 or so boxers in the sport. And, whether he liked it or not, he was in that large group of fighters whose talents greatly outweigh their demand. Ultimately, he was back to being just another guy that the hardcores only care about.

But then something happened in his fight with Provodnikov that was decidedly unexpected. He got hurt. And then he got hurt again. And again. Provodnikov was known to us as a guy who was a regular ESPN2 fighter. Someone who could guarantee a good action fight against anybody, but would falter when he stepped up to the big leagues. Apparently he didn't care about our opinions as he rocked Bradley several times throughout the night and rarely took a back step. However, if there was one thing more surprising than the ability of Provodnikov, it was the concrete brick that doubled as Tim Bradley's head. Bradley took so many head shots he appeared to be in a haze through most of the fight. It didn't matter. When he got pushed back to the ropes, his only response was to punch back. He didn't want out and he didn't cut an interview after the bout telling us he didn't deserve to get beat up like that. When a lot of other guys would have backed down because they knew they could just come back to HBO in a few months anyways, Bradley dug deeper than he ever had to.

Despite a lukewarm build-up, the fight proved to be a TV success. It did a 1.2 rating, peaking at 1.4 at the end of bout. Unlike most boxing events, the ratings continued to rise throughout the show, reversing a trend that most fights tend to take. Word of mouth spread that something special was happening. People tuned in to see these two give us something special and they did. Over a million people witnessed Bradley trudge through hell to win a war that was as unexpected as it was breathtaking. Additionally, 274,000 viewers watched the replay on HBO, well more than typical.

Now we hear about several matchups being proposed by Top Rank that could mix and match Bradley and Provodnikov with Brandon Rios, Mike Alvarado, and even Marquez. I get the sense that Bob Arum still wants Pacquiao to match with Marquez, and Marquez's own trainer Nacho Beristain has said he wants it as well. It's still a huge possibility.

But the man I want Pacquiao to fight is someone he has already beaten, and beaten handily. That man is Tim Bradley. Bradley is suddenly a new star in boxing, and is deserving of a rematch with Pacquiao. Yes, Pacquiao clearly deserved the first decision, but so what? He also rematched Marco Antonio Barrera a few years back after he had already brutally stopped him. He also fought an old Shane Mosley just for kicks. It's not like the matchup is anything beneath Pacquiao because he already clearly won. A rematch with Bradley would be a more difficult fight on paper than his fight with Mosley was or the catchweight bout with Antonio Margarito.

The big seller for me when it comes to choosing Bradley over Marquez as Pacquiao's next opponent is the future of boxing. It's no secret that in order to make stars they have to defeat stars in the first place. It's how Pacquiao attained his level of stardom. He manhandled Oscar de la Hoya in addition to beating the likes of Barrera, Marquez, Erik Morales, Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto, and others. Oscar did boxing a huge favor by fighting Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather before he finally retired for good in 2009. By losing to each, he created mega stars that would be banner figures in the sport for years to come. Now, it's their turn to return the favor.Obviously, I realize this is not pro wrestling and we can not dictate who wins and who loses for the sake of the promotion. We can only hope that promoters pair the right two guys together. If we could determine outcomes, we wouldn't have had Victor Ortiz get knocked out after trying to hug Floyd.

Bradley is, at the age of 29, in his prime. Marquez, who is 39, is always speaking of retiring. Another win by Marquez over Pacquiao does next to nothing for the sport itself. Sure, it could be another very good match, but Marquez would likely leave the sport and Pacquiao would either do the same or keep going despite greatly diminished popularity. If Bradley were to find a way to defeat Pacquiao, on the other hand, we could very well have a new legitimate star in boxing. One that people, after his war with Provodnikov and clean win over Pacquiao, would pay extra to see.

Bradley could lose to Pacquiao once more. It's not out of the question if Bradley hasn't learned from the first fight, or if the war with Provodnikov took something out of him. In fact, Bradley looking vulnerable so much may help him get the rematch he covets. But Pacquiao may have also had something removed from him as well after being cold-cocked. If Bradley and Pacquiao would go at it again, I feel comfortable in saying that it would be a great fight. Neither man would feel comfortable letting it go to the judges, and both would feel the need to make a statement. And if Bradley does lose then so be it. He would have had his chance to break through the glass ceiling, and if he can't do it then he just can't do it.

For boxing's future, give me Pacquiao - Bradley II. Unless Mayweather randomly capitulates, it's boxing's best chance to make a new star.

Donaire vs. Rigondeaux: HBO's Jim Lampley predicts a Donaire victory

Kory Kitchen — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 16:24:39 -0000

On April 13 Nonito Donaire will face Guillermo Rigondeaux, perceived to be his most difficult fight on paper in the last few years, maybe ever. Though Rigondeaux is really known more for his massive amateur pedigree, he has serious talent and a style that can give anyone fits. He's a dreaded Cuban southpaw. Dreaded not only because he can be a difficult puzzle to figure in the ring, but can also be sometimes painful to watch for fans that want more exchanges. It's likely to be a close, tit-for-tat type of fight that could feature as much feinting as punching.

Boxing fans and insiders seem to be fairly split on who they think will win the fight. However, one of the men who will be calling the action live for HBO knows who he is going with. Jim Lampley, HBO Championship Boxing's blow-by-blow man, is picking Donaire to defeat Rigondeaux when the two square off ten days from now. Here is what he had to say in a chat hosted by HBO.com, via Boxing Scene:

"I have to go with Donaire; greater experience and flexibility. There's a tremendous challenge to Donaire in this fight. They're both classic counter punchers, and neither really wants to take the lead.

"The person who is selling tickets, and whose reputation is on the line is Donaire. So, he will have to lead. He has no choice other than to vary his natural style. Rigondeaux will be willing to stand back and wait for Donaire to lead. That's a big risk, but I think Donaire is good enough to manage that risk and win the fight."

So there you have it from a man who will be calling it from ringside. I think what Lampley says will align with how a lot of people feel about this matchup. Somebody is going to be required to take the lead, at least a little bit. And that someone is more likely to be Donaire, who has scored some wonderful knockouts in the past.

Bad Left Hook has Donaire ranked first at junior featherweight, Rigondeaux third.

And I better not see any bang, bang jokes in the comments either.

Lou Dibella doesn't mind working with both HBO and Showtime

Kory Kitchen — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 15:02:02 -0000

Lou DiBella does not have a stable of boxers nearly as deep as either Golden Boy or Top Rank. However, he and other promoters of similar depth may find a way to benefit from the Cold War taking place between those two promotional giants. With HBO refusing to do business with Golden Boy and Showtime essentially giving the same treatment to Top Rank, the expectation for smaller companies is that more dates could open up that would have otherwise been spent on the promotional company that is now banned. At least that's the hope. With the promotional giants just tied to one major premium cable network apiece, it could also cause them to swallow even more dates at their respective network. Like a lot of things, time will tell.

Boxing Scene's Rick Reeno recently (Alliteration!) sat down with DiBella to discuss his thoughts on the feud between Golden Boy and Top Rank, and how it may impact his company.

"If they have the right opportunity for my fighter, I want Schaefer and (Showtime Sports head Stephen) Espinoza to know that I'm happy to do business with them too. Right now I'm doing business with HBO because that's who is calling me for fights and I'm going to give them the best product and the best spectacles.

"I'm not going to sit there and shit on Schaefer. I don't give a fuck about him fighting with HBO. I'm not in the business of shitting on Showtime. You will not read any quotes from me shitting on Schaefer. I just want people to understand that I am fucking Switzerland. I just want the best opportunities for my fighters and the one thing that I have always been able to do throughout my career is do business with anybody and that's what I plan to do in this fucking environment.

"All this stuff with pissing contests and wars - I'm out. Life is too fucking short. I just want to do business. So Richard, I have guys who line up well with your guys. If you want to make a fucking deal, call me. HBO, you're actually calling me now to make fight cards. You're calling me now to make fights for you. So guess what? I'm going to make the best fucking cards I can for HBO. That being said, a lot of my guys factor in with Showtime's fighters, and Golden Boy's fighters and Al Haymon's fighters - and I don't have a problem doing business there. If Stephen ever wanted to call me, I'll all ears. If they are really willing to buy something from me, I'm happy to sell it."

DiBella has always been one of my favorite interviews, and this is him in his unedited glory. Reeno also says in the article that DiBella began to sing John Lennon's "Give Peace A Chance" at one point in the interview.

Promoters like DiBella, Goosen-Tutor, Main Events, and Gary Shaw have the luxury of being able to negotiate with both networks, HBO and Showtime, which could offer their fighters some major opportunities in the near-future. Though, as mentioned earlier, it does remain to be seen if the larger promotional companies take up more dates due to being stuck with just one network. Will HBO and Showtime simply bend over backwards to please the giants or allow everyone a chance?

Julio Cesar Chavez's return: Arum lists Vera, Macklin, and Barker as possible opponents

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 15:11:31 -0000

Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. will finally return to the ring on June 22 according to Bob Arum. Boxing Scene is reporting that his comeback fight will be televised by HBO and will take place in either Texas or Mexico.

According to the article, Arum listed three main candidates to fight Chavez in June. The first is Brian Vera, a tough, limited fighter probably best known for being the first man to defeat Andy Lee a few years ago. He also owns wins over Serhiy Dzinziruk and Sergio Mora in his last two, and is scheduled to be on ESPN2's Friday Night Fights tonight as well. He's a fan's type of fighter who doesn't know how to be in a bad fight and stays active. I mean the guy can even drag Mora to a watchable fight. That's saying something.

The second is middleweight contender Matthew Macklin. Macklin is likely most well-known for the good showing he gave against Sergio Martinez. He briefly floored Martinez in the seventh before succumbing to the champion's superior speed, conditioning, and accuracy in the 11th round. There had been some talk of him fighting Lee, but that doesn't appear to have led to anything.

The final candidate listed is Darren Barker. Like Macklin, Barker is best known to many for his loss to Martinez. He too did a bit better than expected before being stopped in the 11th round. He has won two fights by stoppage since then.

Chavez, of course, is coming off his own loss to Martinez. He was getting completely outclassed until the final round when all hell broke loose and he floored Martinez. Showing he has as much grit as talent, Martinez lasted to the final bell and took home a wide decision victory. Afterwards, Chavex tested positive for marijuana, the second time he had tested positive for a banned substance in Nevada. He was suspended for nine months and fined a whopping $900,000. Arum has voiced his displeasure with Nevada over the fine, and has suggested not bringing Chavez back there to fight any time in the immediate future as a way of protesting the penalty.

Of the three candidates listed by Bob Arum, who would you like to see as Chavez's comeback opponent the most?

Alfredo Angulo and Erislandy Lara to fight on Maidana - Lopez undercard

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 14:40:05 -0000

Gabe Montoya has reported on Twitter that junior middleweight contenders Alfredo Angulo and Erislandy Lara will face each other on the undercard of the Marcos Maidana - Josesito Lopez main event on June 8. The card takes place at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California and will be televised by Showtime.

Lara is coming off a draw with Vanes Martirosyan, which was a WBC title eliminator. There had been talks of a possible rematch, but it did not come to fruition (and, really, I don't think anyone was excited about the potential of watching them go at it again anyways). Angulo has won two straight by KO since he suffered a stoppage loss to James Kirkland in 2011. His last fight, against Jorge Silva, ended up an unexpected brawl and Angulo had to settle for a unanimous decision despite desperately trying to knock his opponent out.

At first glance this would seem to be a very difficult matchup for Angulo. We know that Lara is not going to stand in front of him. He is a (Cuban!) southpaw that is at his best when he is in counterpunching mode, which we would have to figure he would be for this fight.

What do you guys think? Even matchup? Or does it put Angulo in a very tough spot, especially when they appeared to be bringing him back slowly after his stint away from the ring after the Kirklnad loss and immigration issues?

I am told Alfredo Angulo will fight Erislandy Lara June 8 at the Home Depot Center as the co-main to Maidana-Lopez #boxing
— Gabriel Montoya™ (@Gabriel_Montoya) March 28, 2013

Lucas Matthysse vs. Lamont Peterson: Fight is on for May 18 in Atlantic City on Showtime

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 16:53:44 -0000

According to ESPN.com's Dan Rafael's twitter account, Richard Schaefer told him he has a deal made for the proposed fight between Lucas Matthysse and Lamont Peterson for May 18. The fight will be the main event of a card in Atlantic City that will feature Devon Alexander defending his belt against England's Kell Brook on the undercard. Showtime will televise the show.

This match had been in the works for some time now, and it is finally coming to fruition. It's a genuinely great matchup that features two of the top junior welterweights in the world (many consider Matthysse to be the top junior welterweight) squaring off with each other in what should be an all-action fight. Assuming Danny Garcia gets by Zab Judah (I feel that is a fairly safe assumption), it would be great if he were to face the winner. All three are promoted by Golden Boy so the Cold War would not be an issue here.

This is just a tremendous two-fight card by Golden Boy and Showtime. Hopefully the competition between themselves and Top Rank/HBO will breed more high-quality shows like this one. The boxing schedule over the next few months is more loaded than you uncle on Thanksgiving. Enjoy it.

Richard Schaefer tells me he has deal for Peterson-Matthysse May 18 in AC on @shosports. Alexander-Brook is co-feature. GREAT show. #boxing
— Dan Rafael (@danrafaelespn) March 22, 2013

Andre Dirrell off April 12 FNF card

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 16:27:21 -0000

"The Matrix" Andre Dirrell is officially off of the April 12 ESPN2 Friday Night Fights card according to ESPN.com's Dan Rafael. He was scheduled to face Ossie Duran at the Little Creek Casino Resort in Shelton, Washington. No reason has been given as to why he is suddenly off the card.

Well, uh, that's really all that we know right now. Since no reason was given, we must all speculate. Was it another dreaded "brain injury"? Does anyone know? Frankly, by this point, does anyone even care?

We can blame 50 Cent or whatever but, really, it was Dirrell who made his own bed a while back by deciding to leave Gary Shaw and Al Haymon in what was a massive head-scratcher of a move. That coupled with the hilarious Dr. Shaw-High interview have made him a punchline by this point of his career. It's too bad because the guy has talent. He just doesn't do anything.

Former HBO Sports President Ross Greenburg discusses move to Showtime

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 15:38:41 -0000

In the build-up to Floyd Mayweather's pay-per-view event with Robert Guerrero, Showtime has made the decision to bring in the man that was the head of HBO Sports when Mayweather made his leap to superstardom in the mid to late 2000's. Ross Greenburg, fired from HBO in the summer of 2011 for losing Manny Pacquiao to Showtime for one fight among other things, has been hired by Showtime to work on the promotional build-up for Mayweather's pay-per-view show.

According to SI.com's Chris Mannix, Greenburg will primarily serve two functions. The first is giving help to Showtime's All Access reality show, which is essentially their version of HBO's 24/7. The big thing, however, is that Greenburg has been brought in to produce a one-hour documentary about the last year of Mayweather's life, including his stint in prison last year. The documentary will air on CBS as part of the build-up for the pay-per-view.

Mannix was able to ask Greenburg his thoughts on his transition to Showtime and why he is coming back after such a tough fall only two years ago.

"This has always been in my blood," Greenburg told SI.com. "I have always been a producer at heart. I love telling stories. It’s refreshing. There are not a lot of headaches. I didn’t have to put out too many fires. I really enjoyed the people I work with."

"I guess I feel like [Kevin] Youkilis and [Johnny] Damon going into the [Yankees] locker room," Greenburg said. "I’m just interested in helping [Showtime Executive Vice President] Stephen [Espinoza] as much as I can. It’s been very easy for me. They have welcomed me like family. It’s like Jeter putting arm around Youkilis. I’m back doing what I want to do. I have to take care of my family. I’ll always remember and cherish the glorious past. I had a wonderful 33 years [at HBO]."

Greenburg wouldn’t say if his relationship with Showtime could last beyond this fight ("We’ll see," Greenburg said) but said he had no regrets about his time at HBO.

"No, not at all," Greenburg said. "I did my job. The HBO sports department is something I will always remember. I think we built a hell of a franchise and a brand. The boxing program when I left it was as strong as it ever was. I have no regrets whatsoever. I took a lot of criticism, most of it unwarranted, but that is OK. I’m a big boy. I’ll pick myself back up. I have so many great memories. All fond memories."

There's a bit more in the article if you're interested in reading the entire thing. The main thing here is that it appears Greenburg is extremely happy to be back doing what he does best. The moves he made in terms of boxing programming at HBO were highly questionable at times. And his quote "The boxing program when I left it was as strong as it ever was." is an epic howler of a line. But the guy was a genuinely great producer. HBO's 24/7 series, invented by him and Mayweather, was a massive hit. The old Countdown preview specials that HBO used to do were typically excellent as well. These are all in addition to several other wonderful sports documentaries HBO did during his tenure that were not even boxing related.

The bottom line is that Showtime has likely made a good move here. If the goal was to get a top-flight talent to develop a product in order to hype an event, they have hit a home run in that regard. Just keep him away from the boxing programming. And Al Haymon.

Arum says Pacquiao could face Rios, Marquez, or Bradley next

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 15:01:08 -0000

As time rolls closer and closer toward autumn, the speculation about Manny Pacquiao's next opponent will only gain steam. At first, it seemed an almost guarantee he and his career-rival Juan Manuel Marquez would lock horns for a fifth time, likely in September. However, slowly but surely, other options have crept back into the mix. And Marquez may not be as keen on a fifth fight as originally thought.

Bob Arum talked to Boxing Scene about what's next for Pacquiao, and he basically gave his usual at-this-point-we-don't-know answer.

"I've got four guys and after the March 30 rematch between Rios and Mike Alvarado they will sit down with me and we'll figure this thing out.

"Manny might fight Rios if he beats Alvarado or he might fight Bradley in a rematch or Marquez in a fifth fight. I've got four attractive fighters and I'll mix and match them."

So, yeah, Bob doesn't really add much here. He just tells us that all options are open, frankly.

Personally, I feel like the balance has shifted a bit over the past month or so in terms of who will fight who. I thought it was a guarantee that Pacquiao and Marquez would square off again this coming fall or winter. Now, I'm not so sure. Marquez has been very slow to show any eagerness toward getting the fight made. That may just be a negotiating tactic. Then again, maybe it isn't. What we do know is that Marquez will be at the March 30 card to watch Rios face Alvarado. Is he scouting? Or is he just wanting to watch what should be another great fight?

And what about Tim Bradley? He certainly did his career no favors by sitting idle for nine months after the win over Pacquiao, and turning down offers to fight Alvarado and Ruslan Provodnikov (before settling for Provodnikov anyways). Then he goes out and raises his profile more than ever by having what may end up as the Fight of the Year against Provodikov on HBO in a fight that drew a higher rating than Bernard Hopkins' fight a week earlier. With Bradley becoming a bigger name from a war (that will be replayed by HBO on Sunday in primetime, by the way) and looking vulnerable as ever, don't be surprised if his name slips back into the talks to face Manny. The vast majority thinks that Pacquiao handled Bradley the first time, and Bradley may have had something taken out of him after fielding so many head shots from Provodnikov. He could be the perfect opponent for Pacquiao to come back with.

Schaefer: Golden Boy has not approached Ricky Burns

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 08 Mar 2013 20:21:36 -0000

Well, the saga of Ricky Burns and his promotional situation is just getting, in typical boxing fashion, crazier by the hour. According to World Boxing News, Richard Schaefer has exclusively told them that there has been no attempt to begin any negotiations with Burns. This is, of course, in total contradiction to earlier reports to the contrary.

"We haven't made any effort to talk to Ricky Burns," Schaefer told World Boxing News.

"He is still under contract to Frank Warren and a fighter cannot simply declare that they are free and then the next day sign with another promoter.

"Also, I am not in the business of stealing other promoter's fighters," he added.

Now, Golden Boy did try to steal Manny Pacquiao several years ago, but that's a loooooong story.

It was reported this morning that Golden Boy was interested in adding Burns to their UK stable of fighters. That makes sense because Burns is generally thought of as one of the top two or three lightweights in the world. It would also help to create a matchup between Burns and Golden Boy's Adrien Broner. The Ring Magazine's website's twitter actually tweeted just a couple hours ago that Schaefer was trying to make Broner - Burns for June 15.

Lem: Schaefer: Trying to do either Broner-Burns on June 15, or Broner-Malignaggi on June 22 #boxing
— Michael, Doug or Lem (@ringmagazine) March 8, 2013

But Schaefer is also right that a boxer cannot just up and leave whenever he feels like it. Promotional contracts die harder than Bruce Willis, and the feeling is that this could be ugly. I would be shocked if Burns fights any time soon.

Gary Russell Jr. out 6-8 weeks with hairline fracture on left hand

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 08 Mar 2013 18:35:14 -0000

Gary Russell Jr, perhaps the top prospect in the boxing (though we could just as easily call him a contender despite his resume), suffered a hairline fracture on his left hand during his decision win over Vyacheslav Gusev this past Saturday night. Russell said he believes the injury occurred sometime in the fourth or fifth round, and was made worse when his glove ripped in the eighth round. After an examination on Tuesday, he was told he will need to be out of action for six to eight weeks.

Here is what Russell had to say on the injury, via The Ring Magazine's website:

"It's not my wrist, but my left hand. It's a hairline fracture. It happened, I believe, somewhere around the fifth or sixth round. I don't think it's a recurring injury.

The entire glove actually split open. It split open on the side of the glove where my hand was hurting on. That was the support that I needed.

I think it's an injury that basically came from us switching the style of gloves at the last minute. We changed to a different style of gloves because we wanted to give me more protection. The injury, I think, is a side effect of that.

We'll have to see how everything goes. But at this point, we probably won't be back into the ring until June. We had big plans for this year, and we're just hoping that this injury won't set us back."

This is a bummer for one of boxing's most talented practitioners. We have all been waiting for Russell to really have a breakout year, and though the injury isn't truly terrible or anything, it's certainly a detour on his path.

Unfortunately, hand issues have been a problem for him in the past as well. Some boxers eventually get past the problem. Floyd Mayweather had hand issues early in his career, but hasn't had much issues with them as he has gotten older. Some, however, can never get past it. Let's hope it's just a minor setback.

Thurman vs. Zaveck: Thurman plans on testing Zaveck's chin

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 08 Mar 2013 16:22:21 -0000

Tomorrow night Keith "One Time" Thurman will be facing Jan Zaveck in a WBO welterweight eliminator to determine the top contender to Tim Bradley's belt. The fight is the chief supporting bout to the Bernard Hopkins - Tavoris Cloud main event on HBO, and could very well steal the show. Thurman is a big puncher, with 18 of his 19 wins coming before the final bell. Zaveck himself is a good boxer, know to most as having lost to Andre Berto via fifth round stoppage on cuts two years back. Before the bout was called off, Zaveck gave a good account of himself, and it would have been interesting to see where the fight would have gone if his eyes hadn't misbehaved.

Thurman recently gave an interview to Boxing Scene's radio show, The Boxing Lab, and discussed his strategy for tomorrow night's fight. Hint: it involves punching Zaveck really, really hard.

"I'm definitely going to see how my punches feel to him. I'm (going to) test him. We're going to test his chin, test his body. And we're going to make sure he's up for this battle. I'm going to in there and see if this guy can even hang with me. If you can't hang with me, if you cannot take my power, I will get you out of there," Thurman would tell The Boxing Lab.

"They say I fought a lot of tomato cans but look at anybody's record and who hasn't? But how many people have 18 knockouts out of 19 victories? I plan on testing him early; I plan on looking for that punch, that one punch - that one beautiful punch. I'm telling you, that's why One Time is the name man. I'm always looking to place that one beautiful punch and I was able to find that one beautiful punch against Carlos Quintana with two minutes (and change) of round one.

I don't talk about it much but knocking your opponent out is an art. It's a skill. And I'm always zoned in looking to place that punch. I'm going to test (Zaveck) early on. He might not make it past four (rounds) just like Quintana. We might do it sooner than Berto did. I know this dude has never really been knocked down and I know he's tough as can be and we'll see what happens. So you know I'm just going to showcase my skill and showcase my talent and definitely 100% bring my power into the ring and we're going to see what happens," declared Thurman

Thurman really loves to talk about that one beautiful punch, man. Anyways, the guy sounds very confident, bordering on outright cocky. Zaveck is a good pro that should test Thurman, at least a little bit. There's also the possibility that Quintana's days were numbered, and perhaps that victory is not as impressive on second glance.

Either way, we should get more of a handle on Thurman after tomorrow night's fight. It figures to be a good one, and I can't envision it not being the better fight on the card unless it does, in fact, turn into a blowout.

Canelo vs. Trout: Canelo says fight is personal, says Mayweather "is not a man of his word"

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 08 Mar 2013 15:30:24 -0000

Just a little over a month from now, Canelo Alvarez will be facing Austin Trout in what is a bit of a grudge match due Trout having defeated Canelo's brother, Rigoberto, two years ago in Mexico. Much has been made about this, and if Canelo carries much disdain for Trout or if it simply means nothing to him. Notifight's Fernando Schwartz caught up with Canelo to ask about his feelings toward getting in the ring with Trout.

"Of course is it personal. He is a great fighter, an undefeated world champion, a difficult opponent who won't be easy (to beat). We are excited about that. I'll be ready, and I'll fight him perfectly for the victory. In the fight with Cotto, Miguel did not think before throwing his punches. You have to look for openings, find the punches that work and then plug those holes. In terms of speed, I believe I'm faster than him and it will be a factor that night," Canelo said.

Canelo mentions it is "personal", but doesn't expand on his feeling toward Trout based on him beating his brother. I think Canelo likely realizes that whether it's a grudge match or not, this is very much a real match, not a blown-up (junior) welterweight or anything of the sort.

Canelo then goes on to discuss the negotiations for his much ballyhooed potential fight with Floyd Mayweather. Initially, it appeared Canelo was going to face Trout on the undercard of Mayweather's May 4th pay-per-view event. However, due to Mayweather's apparent refusal to sign a contract dictating that he fight Canelo in September, the Mexican superstar moved away from the card altogether.

"He made all of the terms (in the contract). There was an agreement and he did not sign it. We talked with Golden Boy week after week. He wouldn't sign and I refused to fight on his card. It dragged out week after week. Mayweather decided everything (in the contract), money and everything. The only thing I wanted was to beat him. So I was willing to take a risk with the money (by fighting on his undercard). I just wanted to beat him. He is not a man of his word. Today he says 'yes', tomorrow he says 'no'," said Canelo.

The idea of Mayweather fighting twice in a span of five months seemed awfully far-fetched from the beginning, and it turned out to be just that. Anyways, if both men emerge victorious over the next two months, there's no reason they still couldn't fight in the winter or next May.

Adrien Broner possibly to return June 15, maybe against Ricky Burns

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 20:13:26 -0000

According to The Ring's website, Golden Boy CEO Richard Schaefer has said WBC lightweight champion Adrien Broner, widely regarded as the top lightweight in the world, is expected to return on June 15, possibly against fellow lightweight titleholder Ricky Burns.

Broner and Burns have been somewhat close to making a fight with each other before. At one time, it appeared they would lock horns this past February. However, Burns stated he did not have enough time to prepare for such a big fight on relatively short notice. Eventually, he signed to face another lightweight titlist, Miguel Vasquez, on March 16. It is certainly not a guarantee that Burns will come out victorious after fighting such a difficult opponent so this would, of course, seem to be dictated by the result of that unification bout. Not to mention, that fight has also had some problems getting finished with Vasquez claiming his financial share was never completely agreed to.

A fight between Burns and Broner (if Burns does indeed win) is probably the best fight that could be made at 135 pounds. Broner is in serous need of a challenge, and Burns could probably at least make him have to work without getting himself blown out in a few rounds. It isn't as enticing as Broner moving up to 140 pounds, but it's better than just about anything else at lightweight.

But who knows what will happen? Burns didn't come off all that excited about the potential of fighting Broner the previous time, and things have a tendency to fall apart in boxing pretty often. At least this kills any rumor of Broner fighting on the Floyd Mayweather - Robert Guerrero pay-per-view card. That didn't seem very realistic at the time and it simply is not happening.

UPDATE: Dan Rafael is saying Schaefer told him Broner's return on June 15 will also be on HBO in Las Vegas at the Mandalay Bay.

Mares vs. Ponce De Leon: Fight is co-feature to Mayweather - Guerrero pay-per-view

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 18:47:37 -0000

The showdown between Abner Mares and Ponce De Leon is now going to be the chief supporting bout to the Floyd Mayweather - Robert Guerrero pay-per-view main event, according to a report from Boxing Scene. Richard Schaefer informed them of the change.

The fight had initially been scheduled to take place at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California on April 20. However, when Canelo Alvarez balked at fighting on the May 4th undercard without a guarantee from Mayweather for a September fight, Golden Boy was left with a gaping hole to fill. Enter Mares - Ponce De Leon, a fight that has many fans excited for the potential in-ring action it could produce, and our first chance to see Mares at featherweight. It's a very good matchup, especially considering it's Mares' 126 pound debut. Canelo will now face Austin Trout on April 20 on Showtime.

Losing the Canelo fight as the chief support to the main event was a blow to the pay-per-view, but Golden Boy has rebounded as well as they could have here. Neither Mares or Ponce De Leon has the star power of Canelo, but in terms of putting on a good fight before the main event, this is certainly better than most of what boxing fans get for their pay-per-view money.

According to the Boxing Scene article, Schaefer also said that they are still working on another fight to place on the show, likely involving Leo Santa Cruz. Cruz can't be in a bad fight so this may turnout to be a very fine pay-per-view even without the Canelo-Trout match. Can't say I'm not looking forward to it.

Golovkin vs. Ishida: Fight card will be available on U.S. pay-per-view

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 17:49:56 -0000

According to Dan Rafael of ESPN.com, the main bouts of the March 30 boxing card in Monte Carlo, headlined by middleweight titleholder Gennady Golovkin, will be available for American viewing via pay-per-view. Promoters for the show announced they were able to make a deal with Integrated Sports to distribute the show for a price of $24.95. The event will air at 3 p.m. ET on said date.

I know this is the Internet Age and everything, but the option is available if one wants to legally order the show for their television. Golovkin's fight was never intended to be anything more than a stay-busy affair to keep him sharp between his bigger fights, which will likely air on premium U.S. cable. So it is no surprise that this one is not airing on cable in America. Golovkin will likely be back on HBO sometime in the summer, and has said he plans to fight five times this year.

The other three fights on the pay-per-view will be super middleweight prospect Edwin Rodriguez matching up against Ezequiel Osvaldo Maderna, former light heavyweight champion Zsolt Erdei fighting Deins Grachev., and junior middleweights Sergey Rabchenko and Adriano Nicchi squaring off with each other.

Mikey Garcia says he would face Juan Manuel Lopez at 128

Kory Kitchen — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 17:02:34 -0000

Coming off his career-best victory over Orlando Salido, Mikey Garcia is ready to return to the ring. Though he did break his nose from a headbutt from Salido, he apparently is fully recovered, according to Boxing Scene. When asked about who he would like to face next, Garcia has this to say:

"We're open to fight anybody. I want to stay at the featherweight division and unify the titles. If we can't get certain fights or unifications then we'll just keep defending the title. Eventually, we'll probably have to move up in weight but for right now I want to stay at featherweight.

With JuanMa, he was a champion and he just had his comeback fight and he won. If he wants to do one more fight before that because I think he said he wants to do one more fight before anything big - so I'm willing to fight him. I don't really care. (Fighting him at 128) is no problem. He's the same fighter at 126 or 130 it doesn't matter. He'll be the same fighter. It's just up to the management and promotion to decide."

The reason for the 128 catchweight is because Lopez has stated he wouldn't mind fighting Garcia, but 128 is as low as he would go. Both men are promoted by Top Rank so the promotional beef that shadows over seemingly every potential fight can be avoided here. In other words, it should be an easy matchup to make.

Lopez has said he would like one more tune-up fight before jumping into something bigger. That makes sense. He took a lot of brutal shots from Salido in their two wars, and he didn't exactly look razor-sharp in his comeback fight either.

So what do you guys think of this potential match? Good one? Or is Garcia far too skilled for a brawler like Lopez to make this anything but a rout, similar to Garcia's fight with Salido?