September 28, 2003
10 Count Enterprises launches inaugural boxing in Hartford
On Friday night, October 24th, hard-hitting middleweight Julio Cesar De La Cruz will headline the first professional boxing card in Hartford, Connecticut in over a year when he meets veteran Leon Pearson in an eight round bout at Stage East Night Club. The card is being promoted by 10 Count Enterprises, a revamped company now being run by Lorenzo DiClemente, Mark Vaz and Mike Nosky.

De La Cruz is 14-3-1 (13) and has recently inked a promotional deal with 10 Count Enterprises. Managerial problems have forced this native of the Dominican Republic into a bout of inactivity that has limited him to only one fight over the last three years. He holds a knockout win over world rated Carlos Bojorquez.

Also signed for the show is an exciting six round light heavyweight bout between local favorite Salah Zabian and John Douglas. Zabian has won four bouts in a row, three by knockout, since being decisioned in his pro debut against a 3-0 fighter. Douglas battled Julian Letterlough to a six round draw last November and is looking to jump-start his career.

Four other bouts will be added to the show. Buffalo lightweight Hector Alejandro, Jr. and pro debut New York super welterweight Jamel Hamilton will appear in separate fights.

Tickets are priced at $50, $40 and $30 and can be purchased at Stage East Night Club or by calling 1-860-558-9919. Tables of four, which include full waiter service, are available for $400.

September 28, 2003
Results From Buffalo

Joe Mesi KO1 (1:37) Davarryl Williamson

Dominick Guinn Wu10 Dunkan Dokiwari (97-93 twice and 98-92)

Juan Carlos Gomez Wu10 Sanil Sam (98-91, 99-90 & 97-92)

September 28, 2003
Fraza, a cut above Watts
By J.D. Vena

REVERE, MA - This past St. Patty’s Day, South Boston’s Kevin “Cocky” Watts earned the right to face the same man who defeated him for the vacant jr. welterweight New England championship when a huge cut, initially thought to be caused by a head-butt in a box-off, opened over the right eye of neighborhood rival Jimmy Le Blanc. As fate would have it, Watts, who was behind on the scorecards would luck out when referee John Zablocki ruled that a punch caused the cut, awarding Watts a TKO win and another crack at Haverhill’s Jeff “The Hellraza” Fraza, whom by the way defeated him last year by a convincing 10-round decision.

Last night at Club Lido, formerly the Wonderland Ballroom, where their first encounter took place, the same guy won it but under ironic circumstances. As Fraza, 138, had done the first time around, he continuously outworked Watts on the inside, where Watts would try to clinch. When Watts, 141, would attempt to fire on the outside, he was always just short of the mark, appearing tentative to close the distance with effective punches. Round after round, Fraza would be ordered by new trainer “Irish” Micky Ward to back up Watts. For the most part Fraza followed the advise by lunging with right cross/ left hook combinations, some of which landed flush.

Fraza had handily won the first five rounds, but in the 6th, a lunging Fraza crashed into Watts with his forehead opening a huge cut on Fraza’s right eye brow. Referee Paul Casey immediately had ringside physician, Mark Durfee examine the cut and advised Casey that the fight should be stopped. Since the cut was caused from the head butt, the scorecards came into play which favored Watts. Judge Robert McCoy had Fraza leading 59-55 while judges Roland Milton and Nadine Miller had Fraza up by scores of 60-54. With the win, Fraza, who in defending his New England title for the first time also claimed the vacant Massachusetts title. Fraza is now 15-2 with 8 KO’s while Watts is now 17-4 with 7 KO.s.

In the night’s most exciting bout, Boston’s Mike Beverly, 237, out-pointed pudgy crowd favorite Harold Rodriguez, 235, of Taunton, MA over four action-filled rounds. The reason for the excitement had everything to do with the improved conditioning of Beverly, now 2-0 with 1 KO, who had turned professional weighing 255. Beverly used sharp, thudding head and body shots from the outside to build an early lead, but Rodriguez pushed himself in the final round to make it more interesting. A point which was deducted from Rodriguez in the third round for hitting during referee Zablocki’s instruction to break didn’t play into the scoring of the judges who had Beverly winning comfortably with tallies of 40-36, 39-36 and 40-35. Rodriguez now dips under the .500 mark at 4-5 with 1 KO.

Adam “The Bomb” Moses, 175 of Gosstown, NH rebounded from his first defeat by knocking out winless John Mitchell, 175, of Pittsburgh, PA with an explosive left hook to the midsection at 1:33 of the first round. Moses, who also registered his first knockout is now 3-1.

Marcus “Bad” Luck of Greensboro, NC doesn’t carry the ring name for the sake of it. Not only did he lose a four-round decision to Stoughton’s Eddie “The Fighting Irish” Bishop in a bout that appeared to be closer than the scorecards suggested (40-37 twice and 39-37), but he became the first fighter in recent memory to be force-fed a mouthpiece that had been laying on the canvas. After losing his mouthpiece, inept referee Paul Casey, forced the mouthpiece back into Luck’s mouth without the benefit of having his corner rinse it off. Luck’s facial expression looked like Popeye eating spinach for the first time. The visiting Luck who defeated Le Blanc over the summer is now 3-5 with 2 KO’s while Bishop retains his luck of the Irish and improved his record of 7-0 with 3 KO’s.

The most impressive performance of the night was performed by the once promising Puerto Rican native Melvin Cumba, 131 who pulverized Walter Speight, 135, of Washington, D.C into submission in the first round. Cumba, who now resides in Brockton, MA was incarcerated for drug trafficking shortly after beginning his career with four eye-opening wins. Since being released, he is weighing 5 weight classes above jr. bantamweight, the weight in which he debuted. Surprisingly, Cumba is still carrying his speed and punch. The aggressive Cumba attacked Speight moments after stunning him with a hard right cross. Speight backed into the ropes and Cumba began unloading hard left hooks to the mid-section and a variety of right hands. Casey, who may be the state’s new Tinker Pico (worst ref in boxing), probably should have stopped the fight or issued a standing eight count, but instead allowed Cumba to pound Speight until he sank to the mat for a 10-count at 2:35 of the round. If the 25 year old Cumba gets down to a better weight and is what they call a “changed man,” then he still may be the promising fighter everyone thought him to be. Cumba is now 6-0 with 4 KO’s while Speight is now 2-5 with 2 KO’s.

In the first bout of the evening, Providence middleweight Reynaldo Rodriguez, 156, looked impressive in going the distance for the first time, out pointing Bernard Robinson, 158, of Pittsburgh over four rounds. Rodriguez, now 3-0 won by three scores of 40-36.

Last night’s bouts were taped and will be broadcast on Fox SportsNet New England next Sunday at 3:30 P.M.

Promoter - Cappiello Promotions

September 26, 2003
Perception is Reality
By Keith Terceira KcircleT@aol.com


Two combatants, standing toe to toe, blows raining down on each like a monsoon, rivers of blood flow down to the ground until one fighter slowly falls, more dead than alive. Is this a boxing match or a cockfight. Two animals trained to maim for the glory and profit of their handlers.

More and more you see in print , hear from commentators and casual fans the call for blood, versus the call for the sweet science of boxing. The fighter that plods forward using his face to block jab after jab until he is finally close enough to his opponent to land himself is called the aggressor and the judges agree. A fighter with a two or three inch reach advantage is expected to allow a shorter, stronger, or broader fighter to get within striking distance because a promoter may not make enough the next fight or a judge will rule that the man walking forward controlled the action. How is the mere motion of walking forward is an aggressive act in the ring. If a fighter initiates contact no matter what direction his body is moving he is the general in the ring. The man who fails to cut off the ring, breaking the pattern of movement loses the round. But, the announcer says , "He is taking the fight to him."

Is the pendulum swinging back to bare knuckles and rounds counted with an abacus. Fans across the world are so fed up with the judging of the sport that they scream for fifteen round championship fights rather than letting it get into a judges hands. For the sake of fighters and their families, I hope these calls go unheard. Thankfully, toe to toe matches are such a rare event in the championship ranks that when they occur, it makes for legend as in Dempsey-Sharkey.

Listen to the next match you are watching very closely and count just how often the word OUTFIGHTING is used in the commentary. I suggest you pack some groceries, a sleeping bag and a bottle of Geratol. Infighting, getting inside him, toe to toe gets applauded .When boxing occurs its, he ran away from him all night, backing peddling, doesn't want to fight. That's the problem with journalism majors and communication school graduates informing the FAN. The call for blood rather than the call to arms.

This sport has endured since the Sumerians, 5000 years ago and has no use for these types. Will we be calling for spiked gloves as did spectators in ancient Greece. More likely the sport may become abandoned as it did in Rome when the sport became to bloody for the public. I say abandonment as the fan base continues to shrink.

Time was that every man in America was taught to handle himself in a fight. Boxing equipment was found in every gym, school, and church youth center. Ivy league schools such as Yale and Harvard competed to great public interest.. A father taught his son . The key phase is defend himself. Society has changed to the point that attorneys and police are responsible for the defense of your life and anything else is barbaric unless shrouded in mystic mumbo jumbo taught by bald monks from china, and techniques named for animals. So the result is the average person this generation who can afford to see a boxing event brings with him less than a basic understanding of what the science truly is.

Boxers the caliber of Ali and Sugar Ray Leonard with the style, grace and skill to be able to combine or switch at will from Boxer to Puncher are not rare in the sport , they are just not supported and played up as much as the brawlers are. The lower weight classes are full of ring artists like these men were. The changes that these men effected with their styles have become common place.


The problem is the casual fan's belief that bigger is better. Since the beginning of the modern era the saviors of the sport have been primarily in the Heavyweight division. So now even lumbering behemoths are preferred over skilled bantams. Slow thundering blows over swift science and style. It is a matter of perception. A thunderous blow can be delivered in any weight class. Hagler, Hearns, Duran the list goes on of the what is considered lesser weight classes that deliver hugh classic fights. The sport has never been more populated with good, if not great fighters in many of the non-heavyweight classes, yet most fans can't name them. A boxing enthusiast can name thirty or more current ring artists that can combine all the styles of the sport without reaching the heavy weights yet the general public may never reach six.

What contributes to the lessening interest in prizefighting? I have been trying to answer that question for years. Many different opinions exist, from the mellowing of society to the ludicrous view that it's the racial make-up of the sport. I believe it is a matter of education and lack of proper public relations. The average spectator today may never experience getting hit in the face with a punch . Thus the science of slipping a punch goes unnoticed. Thirty years ago a school-yard fight got you a letter home and detention, today you go to jail. Forty years ago, if you came home with a shiner your father, your mother, or your priest would take you to the YMCA, The CYO, or the PAL gym and enroll you . Today you get anger management, Prozac, and a shrink. The general public has no clue as to what it takes to actually fight let alone avoid being hit. Duck is something from Peking and Rabbit is cute and cuddly. The existence of UFC and other extreme sports have taken away some base and the controversy in judging, destabilizing administrative blunders , and promoter/fighter scandals have taken away even more.

While other sports have spent millions over the years to increase public awareness in areas of the community where interest and facilities are lacking i.e. tennis and golf , boxing which lies at the bottom of the spectrum of socially acceptable sports does nothing to raise interest or clean up its act.. Tennis and Golf long considered elite sports work daily to improve access to all economic layers. Boxing on the other hand seems to work to keep the perception of dirty little gyms in bad neighborhoods as the mainstay. The reason could be simple. Little Johnny's dad in middle America could be the sheriff or the prosecutor or an accountant with attorney clients who understand contracts and audits. Why else would a potentially billion dollar industry continue to ignore showing the high tech training camps and gyms sprouting up all over the country. No talk ever takes place on air of diets and training methods. As millions of children go to strip-mall fitness centers and karate classes boxing lays back . As the public screams for an answer to obesity in adults and children , where are the champions of the sport. Do they demonstrate headgear, nose guards, mouth pieces and protective cups on air to America. What are they hiding from, popularity or prying eyes

Would purists scream and be ashamed if once again every kid in the world wanted to be Ali again. I think not. Would it be so terrible to see the Garden filled to capacity once again on a regular basis. Is it to late to see the change?

For boxing to begin to regain dominance in society over other martial sports a change must be effected. A separation of functions first. Judges must be found that the public respects. Mind you I said the public.
Perception is reality. Officials in the alphabet soup of boxing are not respected merely tolerated as functionaries . Hall of Fame boxers and retired fighters are more apt to create trust . Many are already judging on a smaller amateur scale, or training the next generation of fighters. In order for changes to occur this individuals need to be coaxed into other roles. Referees must be taken from the same genre.

A public relations campaign on the safety of amateur boxing , the great conditioning aspects, and fitness virtues of the sport must commence quickly. Boxing is a low cost, low overhead, and high yielding sport that most all school districts can afford. It builds strength, stamina, and self confidence. It damn sure teaches humility and the careful selection of words in a conversation (thus increasing vocabulary skills).

HBO , ESPN and SHOWTIME could serve themselves well by spending some time during preflight and intermissions by having a Champion explain and demonstrate in detail with participants the various boxing skills and techniques. Drive the bus don't just be a passenger. Take a page from football, and educate future fans. The biggest swell of fan base football has received in the last ten years are with women partly because men like Madden decided to stop assuming everyone knew what they were talking about and he started diagramming it.

Publicly donate 20 or 30 tickets to a big match. Give them to an area Boys and Girls Club that has a good program where kids are getting good grades and learning the art. Take the time to introduce the public to the many boxers that have survived adverse conditions due to a dedication to the sport. Play up the virtues and fight like hell for fair standards. The problem with the televised media is when boxing gets to big of a black-eyed persona , these entities suddenly slink off into the background and latch on to the next big fad. Leaving in their wake the refuge they helped create for their profits, only to return when the next savior of the sport arrives.

This is where boxing has failed. Mothers across America get in their SUVs and mini-vans, pick up their kids from school and drive them to Karate classes , then go to meetings to ban violence on television, screaming that boxing is a vulgar and brutal disgrace to humanity. Though Boxing is a Martial Art it is not respected for the ART part. Not due to the sport but due to the men that run it. dedication to the fundamentals are equal. The benefit to mind and body the same, It is the perception that is different. Imagine the horror of a mother as a young man says to his friends " I want to be like Mike Tyson.". Bruce Lee gets a smile, Chuck Norris a swell of pride. These martial arts legends are perceived as fighting for good not evil. The best fight films ever show punch-drunk men to stupid to pay taxes, mixing with the mob, and beating their wives. Not quite "Wax on Wax off".

September 26, 2003
New England Chatta
By JD Vena

Recently crowned WBA welterweight champion Jose Rivera returned to a hero's welcome this past week. In upsetting the previously undefeated Michael Trabant, in Trabant's native Berlin, Germany on September 13th, Rivera has been well appreciated for his tremendous effort across the pond. This past Wednesday, the city of Worcester held a parade and a celebration at the Worcester Centrum where
approximately 2,000 fans were on hand to greet and cheer him.

According to publicist, Bob Trieger, since returning from Germany, he's thrown out the first pitch at a Red Sox game and was honored at the State House by the Senate yesterday. Next week the House will honor him.

"It's all been a little overwhelming, but it feels great to be recognized as a world champion," said Rivera. "The people of Worcester have always supported me and it was nice to share this with so many of my family, friends and fans. There was a tremendous turnout. I was honored and want to thank everyone for being there."

Rivera is the first champion from Worcester since Quebec transplant Lou Brouillard won the undisputed version of the title in 1931. Rivera is expected to defend his title within 120 days against number one contender Thomas Daamgard. If all goes well for Rivera and his fans, it will take place in the city of Worcester, where he is now a hero.

Tonight at the Club Lido in Revere, promoter Rich Cappiello will present a rematch between New England jr. welterweight champion Jeff "The Hellraiser" Fraza of Haverhill, MA and Southie's "Cocky" Kevin Watts. Whether you're a fan of Watts or not, you have to feel bad for what will likely happen to him tonight. Watts lost a unanimous decision to Fraza last year at the same venue when it was the Wonderland Ballroom. You'd never expect that a rematch would
take place but Watts earned another shot at the 14-2 Fraza when he won he stopped local rival and friend Jimmy Le Blanc in a box-off this past St. Patty's day in Boston. Watts was hurt a number of times during the bout and was issued a standing 8-count during the 5th frame. The victory was somewhat tainted because the fight was stopped when a huge cut over LeBlanc's eye opened from a chance jab from Watts. It was biggest win of Watts' career.

In Watts' last outing however, he was stretched by the cockier, Paul Malingaggi of New York in another one-sided drubbing at the Hampton Beach Casino. To make matters worse for 31-year old Watts, who is now 17-3, not only did he lose every round to Fraza the first time around, but his opponent will have friend and former employer, "Irish" Micky Ward working his corner when the bell rings.

Other bouts on the card include, unbeaten welterweight Eddie Bishop (6-0) of Stoughton and Taunton's Melvin Cumba (5-0) in separate bouts. Pudgy heavyweight Harold Rodriguez (4-4) of Taunton is also slated to appear in a four-rounder against Boston's Mike Beverly (1-0). Doors open at 5:30 PM with the first bout scheduled to kick off at 7:00.

Speaking of the recently retired Ward, he will be an honorary guest at a VIP luncheon and benefit for the Retired Boxers Foundation at the Emerald Rose (incidentally, my Thursday-Saturday drinking spot) in Billerica, MA tomorrow afternoon. Owner Gregory Litchfield, a Ward fan, who has been involved in a number of charity events for boxers, will host a special VIP luncheon ($100 charitable donation) from noon to 1:30 PM, in the beautiful restaurant where fans can view the many highlights of the Lowell slugger's career and interact
with he and other boxing celebs. From 1:30-4:00, admission to the party is $10.

Live music, autograph sessions and raffles will also proceeds to benefit the Retired Boxers Foundation will fill the time during what promises to be a good afternoon. The Rose (as we locals call it) is located at 785 Boston Rd. (Route 3A) in Billerica, MA. For tickets to the luncheon, contact Vincent O'Donnell at 978-667-0500.

In an EPSN2 Friday Night Fights special, hard-hitting Gary "Tiger" Balletto of Providence will have his own homecoming on Halloween (October 31st) at the legendary Rhode Island Convention Center against his toughest opponent to date.

Balletto (28-1-2 (25 KOs), 28, will be defending his IBU title in a 12-round match against tought Mexican, GoyoVargas (43-7-1, 30 KOs), the former World Boxing Council super featherweight champion.

"I'm fighting my first nationally televised main event in my hometown," said Balletto said at the press conference. "What's better than that? We've talked about this for a long time and now it's going to happen Oct. 31."

The durable Vargas, extended pound-for-pound entrant "Pretty Boy" Floyd Mayweather 12 rounds in a bid for Mayweather's world title and has beaten the likes of Ben Tackie and Tracy Harris Patterson. Balletto will be expected to lose to Vargas, but Balletto has different intentions.

"Goyo Vargas is a great fighter," Balletto who is rated #2 by the NABF at lightweight. "He's ranked No. 16 (WBC) in the world, the highest rated fighter I've ever fought. If you look at him and me on paper, he's supposed to win this fight because of whom he's been in with and who he's beaten. Vargas has definitely faced better opposition and beaten better fighters than me, but I'm
going to try and beat the odds. He's a very, very worthy opponent and this is a great opportunity for me on national television."

"I've fought in a main event in Providence," Balletto remarked, "but this will be my first time fighting in a nationally televised main event in my hometown. I get an extra charge out of fighting in Providence. More of my fans will be at this fight. I'm very excited about this opportunity. Fighting a main event in Providence on national television has been a long time coming. This is a big
fight for me."

CES is negotiating a WBC Youth Championship match for "Bad" Chad Dawson (13-0, 9 KOs), of New Haven (CT), for the 10-round co-feature for the event. In another 10-round bout, Jaime "Hurricane" Clampitt (11-2, 4 KOs), of Narragansett (RI), squares off against Michelle "Amazing Grace" Linden (6-3, 6 KOs), of West Palm
Beach (FL), for the vacant International Women's Boxing Federation light welterweight title. Clampitt, the reigning Women's Eastern Boxing Association champion, is ranked No. 4 in the IWBF, while Linden is the organization's No. 3 contender.

Slated to fill the undercard rising featherweight prospect, Angel "Gee-Roc" Torres (13-2, 5 KOs) of Manchester, CT will battle Angelo Torres (no relation).
Providence's Bobo "The Bull" Starnino (6-0. 1 KO) faces Martin "The Irish Assassin" Thornton (5-1) of South Boston in a 4-rounder and Missy "The Fury" Fiorentino of Cranston will also appear in a separate attraction. Tickets are priced at $100.00 VIP, $75.00 ringside and $50.00 reserved. For more information or to order tickets call CES corporate headquarters at 401.724.2253/2254 or
visit its Web site at www.cesboxing.com

Speaking of Balletto, on Sunday he and the Teamsters will be holding the first J.A.B. (Joint Association of Boxers) meeting in Providence. Balletto, the New England representative of J.A.B., hopes for a strong turn-out to discuss better ways for boxers to not only improve their boxing careers but their lives after
boxing.

"This is the inaugural meeting where we plan to explain how this organization is going to work," said Balletto. "We've contacted a number of gyms throughout New England with the help of guys like Bob Trieger and Jimmy Burchfield. We're hoping for a big turn-out and that the boxers can sign up with us."

Although boxers were orgainized as long ago as the 1920s, when they afiliated with the American Federation of Labor (AFL) through the National Sports Alliance, recent efforts to unionize have fallen on deaf ears over the years. But Balletto is hoping with the help of a stronghold like the Teamsters, an organization with over 1.4 million members, a boxer will finally have an answer to his or her financial woes.

"If you look at it, 99% of boxers need a job of some kind to fall back on after their boxing career is over. J.A.B. is going to be focused on trying to obtain medical coverage and pensions with Teamster's rates. With the Teamsters, we'll be able to get better health care rates. We're hoping that boxers will be better represented when the time comes and that the Teamsters will help position them into jobs if they don't make enough money to retire on when their careers are over."

September 25, 2003
Heavyweight Explosion Preview
By Tom Donelson


This upcoming Saturday night, we will get a full evening of Heavyweight boxing. I should say, we will get an entire evening of young Heavyweight boxing. What we may be seeing is a future heavyweight champion.

The Heavyweight division is in flux with three people owning a piece of the title, the WBC champion Lennox Lewis, the WBO champion Corrie Sanders and Chris Byrd, who owns the IBF crown. Hasim Rahman and David Tua will battle for the WBA version of the champion this December after Roy Jones, Jr. decided to reclaim his Light Heavyweight championship. Let's face it; no one below Lewis has yet to demonstrate the ability to take hold of the division. Corrie Sanders slaughtered Wladimir Klitschko but Hasim Rahman knocked him out three year previous. Tua has beaten Rahman once with a late knockout in a fight that he easily losing and drew Rahman in their second match in a close and controversial decision. Rahman is the better technician and if he fights the way he did in his second meeting with Tua, he could beat his rival or should. Vitali Klitschko may be the best heavyweight underneath Lewis but he has yet to beat a top ten fighter. The old warhorses Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield still sit around at the peripheral of the Heavyweight division but Holyfield best days are long since behind him and Mike Tyson have lost whatever desire he have had to fight.

The division is up for grabs and we will get a solid look at these young heavyweights and judge for ourselves if we are seeing pretenders or contenders.

Juan Carlos Gomez began his career in the cruiserweight division and now wants to imitate Evander Holyfield's own career by adding a heavyweight championship to his resume. His opponent is the Undefeated Turkish fighter Sinan Samil who has 11 knockouts in his 18 victories. Samil most notable victories were over Julius Francis, the former British Heavyweight and another British heavyweight, Danny Williams. Considering the low caliber quality of his opponent, we really don't know about Samil. We will after Saturday.

Duncan Kokiwari faces Dominick Guinn. Kokiwari only lost was to Fres Oquendo in a battle of undefeated fighters a few years back. Oquendo won the fight in a unanimous decision and since then Kokiwari won 10 straight fights but mostly against a forgettable group. Guinn greatest conquest was Michael Grant, in which Guinn kept knocking Grant down before the fight was mercifully stopped. The Grant that Guinn fought was a shot fighter and not the fighter that was a heavyweight contender five years early. Guinn looked good but on that night, anyone would have looked good against Grant, who seem to forget basic boxing techniques and put his once feared left jab in cold storage.

The most intriguing fight will be the main event. Joe Mesi has been a highly protected fighter, who has fought name fighters but name fighters past their prime and in front of his hometown fans. Fighters like Robert Davis, David Izon, Bert Cooper and Jorge Gonzalez populate Mesi resume but all of these fighters have long seen better days when they faced the undefeated Mesi. We really don't know how good Mesi is and now Mesi travels outside of his comfort zone to fight Davarryl Williamson. Williamson last fight showed heart and courage. In a fight against Robert Wiggins, he managed to put Wiggins down twice and won a decision with a broken jaw. He had victory in hand and he was not about to let it go. His only loss was in his fourth fight and he will have a reach and height advantage over the native New Yorker.

Mesi hits hard and has an impressive knock out ratio but are these knock outs merely a reflection of a collection of tomatoes can that inhabit his record or is he the real thing? Williamson will be a tough test for Mesi, for Mesi will not be fighting a fighter past his prime but entering it.

What will this evening prove? For one, the winners will show that they are forces to be reckoned and be knocking on the door of a top ten rating. Depending how close the fight is, the loser will be shown just in the need of more seasoning or they will be expose as protected pretenders.

The fighter with the biggest to lose is Joe Mesi. Mesi is one of those attractive knock out artist that sends shivers down boxing fans spines but lose badly and he will be expose as just another white hope fed tomatoes cans. Dominick Guinn, like Mesi, fought a name but shot fighter and now he fights another up and coming fighter, Duncan Dokiwari. Dokiwari only lost was to Fres Oquendo in a close decision. Guinn must still prove that he is for real and that the Grant was not a fluke. This fight will go a long way establishing Guinn place in the heavyweight shuffle.

Gomez is a Cruiserweight who is making the jump to heavyweight from cruiserweight and as for Samil; he is making his first trip across the Atlantic. Samil does not have the same power as the other fighters and the question that remains is does he have sufficient boxing skills to ward off Gomez? Samil pulls off an upset means more pay day in the United States. A lost and he simply slinks back across the Atlantic and fights in anonymity of the Europe heavyweight scene. For Gomez, a victory will allow him to make heavyweight money.

For most boxing fans, we will get our first good look at these young heavyweights and for the winners, the victory means big pay days and a future shot at the title. With at least four titles out there and the impending retirement of Lennox Lewis, there are more than enough titles for these young studs to shoot at. Without a dominant heavyweight, it is anyone game. So this will be the most important night for all of these fighters and the stakes are high. Glory and big paydays on one hand or lose and they will be stuck in the Dante inferno of the boxing world away from the bright lights of HBO or Showtime.

September 22, 2003
Donelson on Byrd's Escape
By Tom Donelson

I am big Chris Byrd but in his first defense of his IBF title, I did not see Christ Byrd winning the fight. Chris Byrd is normally an artist in the ring. He normally moves with purpose, using his punches as brushes as he paints his right jab and left cross in combinations over his opponent head. But last Saturday night, there was no magic, nor was the real Chris Byrd in the ring. He played Stalker and repeatedly got nailed with counterpunches. He might even escape the last round when an apparent knockdown was scored a slip. What saved Chris Byrd was the generosity of the judges.

One week after the De La Hoya-Mosley fiasco, we have yet another controversial decision. While the compubox numbers were much closer in the Oquendo-Byrd than in the De La Hoya-Mosley, there was no doubt on which fighter controlled the pace or hit with the harder punch. Byrd rarely hurts his opponent but makes most fighters evening long as opponents usually hit nothing but air. It is his defensive skills that separate him from the other heavyweights. But in this fight, Byrd failed to hurt Oquendo but his opponent was connecting most frequently than a normal Byrd opponent. Fres Oquendo is a solid technician and like De La Hoya the week before, he executed a brilliantly conceived game plan. He allowed Byrd to come forward and countered effectively. Throughout the fight, he was the most effective puncher and he landed the cleaner and powerful blows.

As Jim Lampley stated, if Chris Byrd truly thought he was winning, he would not be fighting an aggressive fight and going for the knock out. He would have boxed and allowed Oquendo to come forward. This fight resembled a chess match in which each fighter moved his hands like pieces on the board.

So how did Byrd pull it out? Jim Lampley quipped that judges are not used to seeing Byrd losing a round and maybe they just was as surprised as the rest of us. After the fight, I talked with a good friend of mine, who tempered my own feelings. He told me that he had the fight 6-5-1 in favor of Fres Oquendo while I had a little wider score and there was no doubt that Oquendo was tiring down the stretch. But there was no way that Byrd won 8 rounds, which one judge scored it or 9 rounds that another judge scored. Maybe, if you are generous to the champion, you could give him six rounds and the draw but 8 or 9 rounds? Please!

This was the second week in a row that a counter puncher, who dictated the fight lost. More importantly, two good fights have been mired by controversy. As I stated, bad decisions are part of boxing and human eyes are subjective when comes to seeing a fight. As one boxing historian told me after the fight, "I am tired talking about the judges." It will be nice if we could watch a fight and just talk about the fight.

As for Byrd, he took a step backward. Needing an impressive victory in the spotlight, Byrd failed to take that step that he needed to make his statement in the heavyweight champion. With the end of the Lewis era, Byrd had an opportunity to show the world that he could indeed be the man to rule the division. He failed to show his superior boxing skills and he certainly did not overwhelm his opponent. He simply sneaked away with a controversial decision. He is still owns a portion of the heavyweight title. The Byrd that embarrassed Holyfield was the Byrd that needed to show up, so he could build up support among boxing fans. Oh well, I like Byrd but on this night, Chris Byrd did not have it. He was given a reprieve but the next time, he may not be so lucky. Maybe next week heavyweight slugfest on HBO, we will be spared any more controversy. I will be watching.

September 22, 2003
Byrd Beats Oquendo & Full Undercard Results
By JD Vena at ringside

UNCASVILLE, CT - At the Mohegan Sun Arena Saturday night, IBF heavyweight champion Chris Byrd successfully defended his title with an unpopular unanimous decision over number two ranked Fres Oquendo of Chicago, IL. Byrd, 211 of Grand Rapids, MI had a difficult time with Oquendo who put who gave the slippery Byrd all he could handle.

The first round was scary in the sense that the combatants gave you the impression that they were going to bore the hell out of us for the next 40 minutes. Oquendo, who is trained by the offensive-minded Felix Trinidad, Sr. began the fight moving backward as if he thought the defensive Byrd was young Tyson. It appeared that Byrd was even going to get bored.

In the next couple of rounds it was apparent that Byrd would not be enjoying himself and that he would be in a fight with a man with fairly quick hands and more coordination than most of the behemoths Byrd has faced. "Fast" Fres began lunging at Byrd whenever Byrd would get himself set to punch. This disrupted the kind of rhythm that Byrd enjoys in his fights, picking his man apart. Oquendo was also effective whenever he threw the jab.

From the middle rounds on, Oquendo began to land some punches from awkward angles that had Byrd a little perplexed. Going into the final four rounds, Oquendo felt he was way ahead but as De La Hoya had a week ago, he let the final rounds go by appearing to be the guy that didn?t want to fight.

It was Byrd who was coming forward and Oquendo engaging in many clinches. In the 12th, Oquendo appeared that he may have dropped Byrd (some felt it was a trip) but it clearly didn't look like a clean knockdown, and according to the judges, it wouldn?t have mattered if referee Ed Cotton had ruled it one or not. The clinching which produced two more take-downs gave the indication that he thought he had it in the bag. He didn't. Judge John Lawson Byrd winning 117-111, judge Stephen Epstein had it 116-112 and Donald Ackerman saw it 115-113. What looked like a difficult fight to score was a one-sided one for the defending champion. For the record I had it 115-115 while my partner in crime, Mike Delisa saw it 114-114.

"I felt that I won the fight," said Byrd who is now 37-2 with 20 KOs. "He never hurt me during the fight. He was very awkward. I just had to remind myself to keep my hands high."

And though he had some rough going on, he can at least hold his chin up.

In the main supporting bout of the evening, unbeaten knockout artist Alejandro "Terra" Garcia successfully defended his non-super (Shane is the super champ now) WBA jr. middleweight title by stopping 1996 U.S Olympian Rhoshii "The Mongoose" Wells in the 10th round. Garcia was stunned twice in the first round by straight counter right hands by the Mongoose but it was the last time he was in threat of losing.

The non-super champion came alive in the fourth with some heavy shots that enticed Wells to trade with him. Garcia gained confidence during those exchanges and began throwing more freely. And while Garcia began feelin strong, Wells fell into a shell.

In the 6th, Garcia attacked Wells along the ropes. One of Garcia?s punches marked up the right eye of Wells and in the next round, his eye appeared to bother him. With little time remaining in the 7th, Garcia staggered Wells badly from a combination of left hooks and right hands. Wells immediately held on for dear life until his lifeless legs brought the two to the canvas. The skirmish, coupled with washed-up referee Frank Cappuccino's bumbling of wiping the fighters' gloves, allowed Wells enough time to recover and escape the round.

The two went through the motions in the 8th round, until the couple of rabbit punches by Wells energized him enough that he threw and landed some telling shots and won the round, his last.

In the 10th round, Garcia pulverized Wells along the ropes until he fell face-first. Wells beat Cappuccino?s count, which ended after the sound of the bell. Cappuccino's dull senses nearly got Wells killed as he let the fight continue until the timekeeper did his best Keith Moon impression on the round bell. Wells' corner didn't have the sense to stop the fight but at least Dr. Anthony Alessi knew that the hurt fighter could no longer continue. All three judges had Garcia ahead by scores of 96-94, 95-94 and 96-93. The CBZ had the champion ahead 97-92 until the stoppage.

"I knew it was a matter of time before I caught up with him," said the champion. "Who ever they line up for me, I will fight. I promise next time out that I will be better. I had eight months off and I felt very nervous and tight early on because this was my first defense of the title."

The record books say that Garcia is now an impressive (numbers-wise) 27-0 with 26 KOs. However, after the bout, Garcia told the CBZ's Mike Delisa that he has won all of his bouts by knockout, and that his trainer Roberto Sandoval has all the tapes to prove it. Tonight?s effort was the first time he had ever gone past the 6th round. Though Wells who was emotionally crushed over the stoppage is most certainly 17-1-2 with 10 KO's.

Jamaican-born Owen "What the heck" Beck, 232, won a convincing 12-round unanimous decision over George Arias, 212, of Sao Paulo, Brazil to win Arias's FEDELatin Heavyweight Championship. The smaller Arias wasn't convinced that he had a chance to beat the much bigger Beck, but after landing the harder punches you?d think he?d say, "what the heck" and give it a try. Beck did most of the punching and though none of his punches apeared to be damaging in any way, he was piling up all of the points. The judges scored the bout 119-109, 117-111 and 118-110 for the new champion. I never knew Jamaica or Nashville, TN, Beck?s new home were considered Latin.

Manny Siaca, Jr., 176, of Bayamon, Puerto Rico beat-up Demetrius Jenkins for the better of 4 rounds until the corner of Jenkins threw in the towel before the 5th began. Jenkins, 172, a late substitute for former WBA light heavyweight champ Lou Del Valle made a brave effort to punch with the better trained Siaca but took most of the damaging punches during their exchanges. Siaca is now 17-4 with 15 knockouts while Jenkins is now 21-12-1 with 16 KO?s.

In what was supposed to be a welterweight fight, Former IBF jr. welterweight champion, Rafael "Derby" Pineda, 157, of Colombia broke down but couldn't finish the game Tybius Flowers. According to a story I had heard from Boston Herald scribe, George Kimball, Flowers arrived at the Mohegan earlier today and weighed 158 pounds. Pineda, a welterweight, weighed in again after finishing his breakfast at 157 to make the bout an official middleweight bout. At any rate, Flowers, who was effective early on with his long jab faded from the heavy body punches from Pineda. Pineda won by scores of 100-89, 98-92 and 97-91 and improved to 37-5 with 31 KOs. Flowers is now 17-6 with 10 KOs.

Undefeated Philadelphia cruiserweight, Steve "Bossman" Cunningham, 189, was in complete charge against veteran and the washed-up Terry McGroom. McGroom, 189, couldn?t capitalize enough on Cunningham?s inexperience and lowering his defenses but did his best in keeping himself upright. McGroom was dropped by a right hand in the 8th and final round which he survived. Cunningham won by three scores of 79-71 in improving to 14-0 with 8 KO?s. McGroom of Oshkosh, WI, who should have thought about hanging them up last year is now 19-6-2 with 10 KOs.

In the opening bout of a long evening of fights, Quentin "Happy" Smith, 162, of Winter Haven, FL disposed of Floyd Williams at 1:58 of the third round. Smith finished Williams with a combination of head and body shots. Flowers lay face-first on the canvas while referee Richard Flaherty counted to 10. Smith is now 18-0 with 12 KOs while Williams is 30-14-1 with 19 stops.

September 11, 2003
Paz to be Inducted into Hall of Fame
Paz punches way into Rochester Boxing Hall of Fame
Induction ceremony & awards banquet Sept. 20

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Five-time former world champion Vinny “The Pazmanian Devil” Paz will be inducted into the Rochester Boxing Hall of Fame during the organization’s 13th annual awards banquet, September 20, in Rochester, New York.

Paz (49-10, 30 KOs), of Cranston (RI), also will be presented the 2003 Rochester Boxing Hall of Fame Special Courage Award. Other award winners include Emanuel Steward (2003 Carmen Basilio Man of the Year Award) and Gasper Ortega (2003 John Mastrella Integrity Award). Former two-time world welterweight and middleweight champion Basilio, seven-time former world champ Tommy Hearns and ex-Canadian heavyweight champion George Chuvalo are special head table guests.

“Vinny Paz is the main event no matter how many great fighters will be honored there,” RBHOF president Tony Liccione said. “Vinny is most deserving of this award because of the great courage, dedication and sacrifices he’s made throughout his career. Paz epitomizes this award. This great gladiator reminds a lot of us on the selection committee of the great Carmen Basilio, who’ll be seated right next to Vinny at the head table.”

Paz’ outstanding 20-year-career includes victories against world champions such as Roberto Duran (twice), Lloyd Honeyghan, Greg Haughen, Gilbert Dele, Luis Santana and Dana Rosenblatt.

“I’m tremendously honored and very proud to be selected for induction into the Rochester Hall of Fame,” Vinny remarked. “Being the recepient of the Special Courage Award means a lot to me. It’s great to be recognized for overcoming so many hardships and obstacles during my career. I want to thank everybody associated with the Rochester Boxing Hall of Fame and I’m looking forward to a great night.”

Accompanying Vinny will be his promoter and close friend, Jimmy Burchfield. “We still have some unfinished business to take care of,” Burchfield explained. “Vinny’s not retired, yet. We’ve had several fights fall through for one reason or another, but we’re very close to announcing a date and opponent for Vinny’s next fight. He wants to retire only after getting his 50th career win. Vinny only needs one more victory for No. 50, but he’s insisted that he wanted to do it against a legitimate fighter. That’s the type guy he’s always been.”

For ticket information call 585.964.3077.

September 11, 2003
New England Chatta - The Latest on Rivera, Manfredo and Team Ward
By JD Vena

Worcester’s Rivera ready to gobble up world title

Roy Jones, Jr. isn’t the only fighter in the world that’s into the sport of cock fighting. Though he may have some boxing friends in Pensacola, FL that share his obsession with poultry-styled pugilism, there is one other fighter who hails from Worcester, MA that dabbles in this unconventional art. In fact, he goes by the fighting name of “el Gallo,” Spanish for, ‘the rooster.’

From the time he was a little boy, Puerto Rican born Jose Rivera, his brother and cousins use to help train fighting roosters for his uncle.

“At a young age, I was intrigued by the whole thing,” said Rivera. “Anyhow, I stayed with it because I was so impressed with how roosters fought until the end with no quit and all heart and will.”

On Saturday night, Rivera will use the attitude of his feathered friends when he faces undefeated European welterweight champion Michael Trabant in Berlin, Germany, incidentally the hometown of Trabant. On the line will be the vacant WBA title, which was removed from Ricardo Mayorga after was designated ‘super champion’ for unifying two of the belts earlier this year. Rivera was a last minute replacement for #2 rated Thomas Damgaard and thus, Rivera and his team were notified as just last week of the unexpected good news.

Rivera, who retired Cape Cod’s Kippy Diggs three years ago and holds wins over NABF champion Teddy Reid and former champ, Frankie Randall, last fought in July of 2002 when he stopped Elias Cruz in the 2nd round. Though, he has been inactive, Rivera doesn’t expect to show ring rust or have any ill-affects despite not having fought in the last 13 months.

“If you go into a fight thinking negative you are pretty much done,” said Rivera. “If you worry about where you are fighting, you are already making excuses in case you lose and you are taking away from your ability to perform at 100 percent. Your mind always has to be at 100 percent along with your body. I also feel you need a strong spirit. I’m in great shape and have been working out for months. I’m fighting for the ultimate prize -- the world championship. I’ve always hoped to get this opportunity. Many great fighters never get a title shot and I’m very fortunate. I believe I’m one of the top welterweights in the world. This is the first step in terms of achieving my goal, but I’m not looking past this fight.”

Trabant, who is an impressive 38-0 with 18 KO’s is rated third by the WBA and will have the benefit of fighting in his backyard. The 30-year old Rivera regards the distance from home and politics as the least of his worries.

“I feel that you cannot worry about the judges,” said Rivera who is 36-3-1, 24 KOs. “I already know that the judges are from Germany, Panama and the other from Japan, so I have to ensure that I match his punch output and then some if it goes the distance.”


Of his worthy opponent, Rivera added, “We know that Trabant is always in championship shape. He takes punches well and works the body very well. I know he doesn’t have a typical European style I’m willing to do whatever it takes to win the world title. Nobody said fighting for the world championship would be easy. I feel my power should make the difference in this fight. I do not want to leave it in the judges’ hands. So basically I am going for broke.”

Or better yet, fight like a rooster.
-------------------
Manfredo, Mirrors the Golden Boy

Undefeated Peter Manfredo, Jr. returns to the ring tomorrow night in Philadelphia to headline the Blue Horizon’s latest boxing card. Whether you are able to attend tomorrow night’s fight or not, expect to see the 20-year old in fantastic shape. Manfredo, a native of Providence just returned from Big Bear, California as one of ‘Sugar’ Shane Mosley’s chief sparring partners. It was the second time Manfredo was called in to prepare a fighter for boxing’s Golden Boy, Oscar De La Hoya. Manfredo also served as a sparring partner for Fernando Vargas last year and it’s probably no coincidence.

“I think word got out that I have some speed,” said Manfredo. “I’m probably not as fast as De La Hoya but I have fast hands, good skills, I can go the rounds, I’m tough and determined and I’m there to work hard.”

Manfredo has been around the New England block and has been privileged to have worked with such noted fighters as Vinny Paz, Ray Oliveira and Micky Ward. Young Manfredo is eager to learn and that is why many, including your writer expect the 18-0 jr. middleweight to be the future of New England boxing.

“I learn so much from every camp,” said Manfredo. “Working with these guys helps your skills and your confidence. Mosley is a great guy and a good fighter. Any time I’d ask him a question about something, whether it was about boxing or about the business of the sport he always took time to answer my questions.”

When asked to compare Vargas to Mosley, Manfredo admitted that Vargas possessed the harder punch, more strength and added, “Shane doesn’t seem to be in the right weight class. I still give him a 50-50 chance to win but he seems to be better suited for welterweight.”

Manfredo, who is looking for a promoter since leaving Jimmy Burchfield earlier this year is eager to get back in the ring since dominating Victor Rosado over 10 one-sided rounds in June. His opponent tomorrow night will be trial horse, Leonard Townsend (37-15) and is scheduled for 8 rounds.

“I’m in great shape right now and wish I was fighting a 12-rounder,” said Manfredo. “But I have to get back in the ring and look impressive and continue to better myself as a fighter.”

Do you see why I like this kid?

Manfredo-Townsend is the main event of an 8-bout card for a special and 1st Annual “Law Enforcement Fight Night.” The card will feature Philadelphia police officer, Tyrone Winckler (12-7-1, 5 KO’s) in a 6-round jr. middleweight contest against Montreal’s undefeated (6-0, 2 KO’s) Adam Green. For ticket information call the Blue Horizon at 215-763-0500. Doors open at 6:30 P.M and the first bout begins at 7:30.

--------------------

Team Ward: The Fellowship of the Ring

Fight manager, Sal Lonano’s banana-sized hands just got even heavier. So did the rest of Team Ward. As a celebration of their memorable fighter, the recently retired Micky Ward, promoter/advisor and good guy, Lou Dibella bought the members of Team Ward rings to commemorate the times and career of the famed Lowell slugger. The team included Ward, his aforementioned die-hard manager Lonano, promoter, Al Valenti, Ward’s brother and trainer Dick Eklund, Ward’s nephew and sparring partner, Sean Eklund, cut-man, Al Gavin and Ward’s trusty publicist, Bob Trieger.

“I wanted to be the guy who did this,” Lonano told the CBZ. “But Lou being such a great guy beat me to it. It showed that Lou really appreciated Micky Ward, me and the entire team. For him to step up and recognize Micky and his team like that is beautiful. The relationship we have with Lou means a lot to us and it obviously means a lot to him too. Remember, we never had papers (Dibella had a handshake deal with Ward and Lonano).”

The 2 ½ karat gold rings, which are studded with 16 diamonds on top and have four sides. The sides read, ‘Ward,’ ‘2000,’ ‘World’ and ‘Champion.’ There is a boxing glove on one side of the band and the letters, ‘WBU’ on the other.

In February of 2000, in one of his more memorable fights, Ward defeated Shea “The Shamrock Express” Neary on the Englishman’s home turf for his coveted WBU jr. welterweight title. Behind on points, Ward salvaged victory when he buried his trademark left hook into Neary’s rock-solid sides. He followed the punch with a near decapitating uppercut that felled Neary on his butt. Once Neary rose to his feet, a relentless Ward followed up with a vicious volley of shots that sent Neary across the ring and to the canvas for the second and final time. Ward’s hands were raised a moment later and a belt was soon wrapped around his lean waist.

Whether you regard the WBU title with little credibility or not, the victory enabled Ward to become one of the popular and more sought fighters to watch. Late in his long hard-fought career, Ward became a folk hero. He was discussed as a “throwback” and would be rewarded with many lucrative paydays for his gargantuan efforts, most notably his recent trilogy with Arturo Gatti..

After glancing at the beautiful ring, I mentioned to Sal that “it looked like a Superbowl ring.”

Lonano looked on proudly and said, “It is a Superbowl ring.”

September 11, 2003
Steve "2 Pound" Forbes Prepping for Reclamation Project
By K. Dunn

The voice on the phone was former lightweight contender Ray Lampkin. He was calling news outlets back home in Portland, Oregon from St. Petersberg, Florida. Lampkin has been in Florida for weeks, training former IBF 130 pound champ, Steve Forbes.

Now 26 years old, Forbes lost his title on the scales when he failed to make the weight for a scheduled title defense against David Santos back in August of 2002. The fight took place and Forbes dominated the action over 12 non-title rounds, winning the decision going away. Then a pause struck Forbes’ career. He’s fought only once since, with a 5th round TKO over Ronnie Longakit in January of this year.

Now Forbes is preparing for a chance to reclaim his title in a challenge scheduled for October 4. Defending is IBF champ Carlos Hernandez, who won the box-off for Forbes’ vacated belt. Their bout is booked underneath Erik Morales vs Guty Espada on a Pay Per View card to be broadcast from Los Angeles.

Forbes took over the phone to say his weight is coming down nicely, and as of Sept 10 he was only 7 pounds over the limit with almost three weeks to go. He and Lampkin are housed in a rented condo near the beach, and training in the St. Pete Boxing Club where Winky Wright and other notables are based. Forbes has shuffled from trainer to trainer and manager to manager over the past several years and was living in Las Vegas to pursue his career. He moved his family back to his hometoen, Portland, last year and has been training with Ray Lampkin. His current manager is James Prince, who also handles Winky Wright, Floyd Mayweather, jr. and others.

September 9, 2003
The CBZ De La Hoya – Mosley II Prediction Poll
De La Hoya – 24
Mosely - 17

What is in store Saturday night when two of the sport’s biggest top fighters meet in the ring for a second time? Will boxing’s ‘Golden Boy’ exact sweet revenge from the only professional to defeat him convincingly? Will the fact that Shane Mosley hasn’t won a fight since 2001 or the fact that he has only three rounds of jr. middleweight experience weigh heavily against a repeat performance for today’s Sugar man? Will a defeat end the career of either fighter? Is Oscar’s credentials for the Hall of Fame in jeopardy should he lose? The CBZ is once again pleased to bring you the thoughts and predictions of what promises to be another defining fight in the sport’s history.

“My hunch is De La Hoya wins by stoppage, but I'm not picking a round.”

Katherine Dunn
The CBZ

“I like De La Hoya by decision. I see De La Hoya boxing and using the entire ring. In the last fight they had, De La Hoya was coming off losing to Trinidad. De La Hoya was ridiculed for what was termed running away from Trinidad in the last three rounds. When he fought Mosley I think he tried to show the critics that he was tough and fearless. He looked at Mosley as a lightweight and thought he could go right through him. This played into Mosley's hands and cost De La Hoya the fight, (I thought Mosley clearly won the first fight and it should have been a unanimous decision). I don't see De La Hoya making the same mistake in this fight. I like Mosley and think he is an outstanding fighter however, I have not a single doubt that De La Hoya will out box Mosley in this fight and win a solid decision.”

Frank Lotierzo
‘Toe to Toe” (ESPN Radio 1450)
& The CBZ

“Mosley UD 12. Mosley is still faster and will out-hustle Oscar like he did in the first bout. I've always had my doubts about Mosley at 154, but as long as he fights the right guys, he'll do fine. You can't say he can't beat De La Hoya because he's already done it.”

Stephen Tobey,
Max Boxing & Boxing Digest

“I expect De La Hoya to win by late stoppage.”

Lucius Shepard,
The CBZ

"Not an easy call, by any means. But here's the thing. Three years ago, Oscar was coming off the humiliating loss to Trinidad, where he earned the name ‘Chicken’ De La Hoya and was considered a disgrace to his Latino following. Arum knew the quickest way to restore his image was to put him in there with a blown-up lightweight with some credibility, somebody De La Hoya could bully and physically handle with ease. Mosley, they figured, fit the bill perfectly. And that was exactly the way Oscar approached the fight, like he could walk right through him. But it wasn't the smart thing to do. Instead of keeping Mosley on the outside (which is exactly what Forrest was smart enough to do), he chased him around the ring, looking for a knockout. Mosley didn't have to work to get in range, De Le Hoya was there for him all night, and that's why it all came down to a speed thing. I think Oscar learned his lesson, and I know Mayweather, Sr. is smart enough to make it a different fight this time. It would be easier if Oscar threw a lot of right hands, which he normally doesn't, but the feeling here is that he'll still keep the distance there and outbox a slower, heavier Mosley (there's no way he belongs in the 154-pound division) over 12 rounds. Oscar wins a close decision.”

Ted Bodenrader,
The Ring

“The first fight between Oscar and Shane was close until the middle to late rounds when Shane pressed the gas pedal and simply ran away with the decision. That will not happen here as Oscar's star is shining once again and Shane's legacy is hurting poorly. Word out of camp is that Shane is not throwing combinations like he once did and certainly his last three fights have not shown much in the way of him being close to where he needs to be to defeat one of the best fighters in the world. Oscar wins this fight by decision, turning the tide from the first fight and takes most of the late rounds to do it.”

Mike Nosky,
Founder & Editor
RealBoxing.com

“It’s going to be Oscar’s night and I like him to win by unanimous decision. Afterwards, Mosley will lose the ‘Sugar’ tag.”

Bert Randolph Sugar,
Boxing Analyst/ Historian

“I’m picking Mosley by decision. I believe Mosley wants it more.”

Sal Lonano,
Manager (Micky Ward) & S & L Promotions
“In their first go-round I picked Mosley on the basis of speed and sharpness. De La Hoya was already an established welterweight and Mosley, who is smaller and was having a real rough time maintaining 135, was moving up due to growing pains. This time around however, I believe Mosley is pushing it too far. De La Hoya has the framework for 154 where Mosley does not. I believe this bout will go the distance, but I believe De La Hoya is too big and will be too strong at 154 for the still very talented Mosley. De La Hoya by unanimous decision.”

Dan Hanley,
The CBZ
“Oscar by TKO round 8.”

John Friest,
Freelance Boxing Writer

“Oscar is in the home stretch of a Hall-of Fame career. He has matured greatly, and knows he needs to actually win rounds. Shane, for his part, looked very sloppy in his last 3 fights. Although he may be "up" against Oscar, and may make it a tough fight, I look for Oscar to pull away with a clear decision.”

Mike DeLisa
Founder & Co-Publisher
The CBZ

“I could make a compelling argument for either fighter. While it is easy to think that Mosley might have De La Hoya's number, just like Vernon Forrest has Mosley's number, I have to with Oscar by decision. The first fight was very competitive, and the Golden Boy has momentum in his favor for the rematch.”

Bob Mladinich,
The FIST & Gallery magazines

“De La Hoya will win easy. Oscar by 8th round TKO.”

Aaron Braunstein
www.NyShockjock.com

“I think Mosley's sense of invincibility was higher than De La Hoya's for their last fight. De La Hoya had something to prove, and was forced to fight back in exchanges. Plus, Mosley had not yet learned that he could be hurt. Now Shane has not felt victory in over 2 years, and de la Hoya is riding a win streak. I think ‘Sugar’ Shane will look differently at Oscar's left hook when he gets hit by it this time, yet his talent and desire will make it a close fight. I suspect similar scorecard numbers to the first fight, but this time De La Hoya is ahead on all cards. De La Hoya by decision, about eight rounds to four.”

Chris Strait,
Boxing Digest
& The CBZ

“My prediction is that Mosley surprisingly TKO's the 'Golden Boy' in the 10th round.
"Surprising" because De La Hoya's stock appears to be on the ascendant while Moseley's seems to be plummeting. Both men will likely hurt each other.”

Ade Makinde
Eastsideboxing.com
& The CBZ

“Mosley KO in 9.”

Howie Evans,
Sr. Sports Editor,
N.Y. Amsterdam News

“The bout between Oscar De La Hoya vs. ‘Sugar’ Shane Mosley will be different from their first fight.

Looking back at De La Hoya's career, his style is custom made to have advantages in strength and leverage over shorter opponents. Against guys such as Julio Cesar Chavez, Jessie James Leija, Genaro Hernandez, Rafael Ruelas, David Kamau, and Patrick Charpentier, De La Hoya's size, reach, and hand speed proved to be way too much for those guys.

Against bigger and stronger fighters such as Ike Quartey, Felix Trinidad, and Fernando Vargas, De La Hoya was more tentative toward exchanging punches because, they were fast but even more powerful than De La Hoya.

What makes Mosley different is the fact that he is only one of two fighters that are fast than De La Hoya (1. Roy Jones, Jr.). De La Hoya underestimated Mosley's hand speed during their first fight. Oscar will not make the same mistake twice.

While De La Hoya's hand speed has carried through the 130-154 weight divisions, Mosley's speed will diminish. I think De La Hoya is not very strong at 154, but he has enough power to knockdown bigger fighters (Vargas & Castillejo) using his hand speed and diverse combinations.

Also, Mosley, is as small as the fighters De La Hoya has dominated earlier in his career. Mosley maybe flashy and can do more things inside the ring than De La Hoya, but Mosley will have problems moving away from De La Hoya's left jabs which will set up the rest of De La Hoya's arsenal.

Oscar will defeat Mosley, via 12-round unanimous decision. The fight will be exciting and could be closer than everyone can imagine because I think Mosley will throw late flurries in the final 30 seconds of every round to steal rounds from Oscar.

Francis W. Walker,
www.blackathathlete.com

“De La Hoya by UD or late round TKO. I really feel Mosely is damaged goods. He also has to small a frame to really compete at jr. middle. Marquez, who is no power hitter was able to knock him back every time he connected. Shane's confidence factor is a big minus. He's looked like crap his last three fights. I also don't feel he ever recovered from the beat down in the first Forest fight.

Stephen Gordon (a.k.a. “GorDoom” & “The ‘Ol Spit Bucket”),
Editor-in-chief,
The CBZ

“Mosley should come on at the bell but after a few, ‘The Golden Boy’ will pick up his confidence and put a hurtin' on Mister Mosley that he won't soon forget... thus setting up a mega-money-rubbermatch. Oscar stops "Sugar" Shane in 10.”

David Greene,
Sports Eye, NY


“I like De La Hoya by majority decision. Shane still has to prove he's back to his old, great self.”

Nathan Dominitz
Pensacola News Journal

“I am curious to see how De La Hoya approaches the fight. Last time out, I thought Sugar’s speed and tenacity were huge factors for him. If Sugar has gotten over the sting of losing to Forrest twice and can fight with the same drive that he did the first time then think he can pull this off again. Oscar has changed his style and posture somewhat with Mayweather, Sr., but I am not so sure that Oscar is fluid and loose enough to carry out that style like Floyd Jr. does. I think Oscar tries a little too hard to do what Mayweather tries to get him to do and against a speedy, furious-punching guy like Sugar has the potential to be, I think it could against Oscar. My feeling is that it is a tight, extremely close fight that is hard to score. No stoppage here. I will go with Shane by decision.”

“Ice” John Scully,
Former world title challenger,
Special to the CBZ

“It was not that De La Hoya fought so badly in the first bout, but that Mosley boxed so well. While De La Hoya has recovered from his defeats, Mosley has to prove he can handle it. The pick is De La Hoya on a 10th round stoppage in an action affair.”

Joe Maxse,
The Plain Dealer

“Oscar by UD or late TKO.”

Isaac Barrio,
Hard Core Boxing
(www.hardcoreboxing.net)

“Simply put, Shane Mosley needs this fight a lot more than Oscar De La Hoya in regards to his legacy in boxing. I look for him to fight with a sense of urgency that Oscar De La Hoya will not be able to match and win by unanimous decision. That being said, the fight is in Las Vegas so Mosley had better win every round decisively or else Oscar might retain the belts. Oscar is trying to do the same thing that he tried back in June of 2000 by luring a smaller man up to a larger weight in hopes of being able to push him around, I don't think the added weight will affect Mosley, not with what he has at state.”

Aladdin Freeman,
Braggingrightscorner.com

“Mosley will start out fast but will not be able to keep up the pace. Oscar will come on strong to take the second half of the fight and will win by a unanimous decision.
I was an inspector with the Nevada State Athletic Commission and I worked Oscar’s corner when he fought Trinidad. He will never make that same mistake again, thinking he had the fight in the bag and running the last few rounds. He will finish very strong. This fight means too much to his pride.”

Butch Gottlieb,
Editor
Boxinginlasvegas.com

“Mosley UD12 De La Hoya. Forgetting what happened in round 11 against Vargas, Oscar has looked terrible at 154 lbs. Vargas was beating him to the punch, and Castillejo simply made him look above average. While Mosley hasn't shown anything either at 154, if the deterioration in skill is the same, then Mosley will still is that much better.”

Alex Dombroff,
Editor
Boxing316.com

“I think that the deciding factor in this fight will be the developed right hand of Oscar De La Hoya under Floyd Mayweather Sr. Sugar Shane will put up a good fight, but he is a depleted fighter and he will lose a close decision to Oscar. However, this may be the last big dance for these two as Ricardo Mayorga, Alex Terra Garcia, and an underestimated Fernando Vargas are the future of this division.”

Umar ben-Ivan,
www.bloodboxing.com

“This time it will be Mosley in a close decision. It's got the making of a classic bout, but De La Hoya may be outclassed this time. Mosley is looking for revenge and championship status again. Expect a good slugfest and a close one, but Mosley by decision.”

Rich Mancuso,
Boxing Digest, Associated Press Stringer & Bronx News


”Although my heart will be pulling for Mosley to win again- I don't know if it's possible for him. Oscar looked great against a supercharged (and juiced-up) Fernando Vargas at 154 - and in the meantime Mosley got rocked and then became gunshy with his 2 welterweight fights against Forrest. That being said I think Oscar will win a decision over Mosley.”

Joseph Cicchelli,
Boxing World Magazine

“It will be a tough and contested fight. With Mosley's body work slowing down Oscar, who's never had great stamina to begin with. But ultimately Shane Mosley is too small for 154 and the added way will make him less mobile and he'll get caught and stopped by Oscar's sweet left hook.”

Yosvani Oliva Iglesias,
www.BoxeoMundial.net

“Shane by decision.”

Jake Donovan
RealBoxing.com

“De La Hoya by split decision.”

Gregory Juckett,
Editor
Boxing Digest

“I look for this to be one of the best technically fought bouts in many years. Ultimately, I believe DLH will benefit from the 154 lb. weight limit as I believe he has grown into this weight more completely than has Shane, but because of the nature of this fight and the styles of both fighters, I believe the speed of Mosley will ultimately allow him to win a very close split decision. The actual fight will not be so close that a split decision is justified, but there always seems to be one judge that gets lost somewhere in the event of scoring the fight for 12 rounds. Mosley will win 7 rounds and DLH will win 5 - just as their first fight, I believe the key rounds to the fight will be rounds 10, 11, and 12, all of which will be won by Shane.”

Ronald Heard,
Boxingtalk.com

“I see De La Hoya fighting a better, more aggressive style fight this time and actually think it will be Oscar over Shane Mosley with a later round stoppage.”

Mike Indri,
Retired Boxers Foundation (NJ State representative)
& The Leader Newspaper (NJ)

“I like Oscar on points. Mosley just doesn't seem big enough to hold 154 pounds. Oscar fought a stupid, one-dimensional fight the first time and was still competitive. He'll be stronger at the weight, and as a result, he'll be the more confident of the two.”

Steve Farhood,
Showtime Boxing Analyst

“Oscar De La Hoya will win a 12-round unanimous decision or late round TKO.”

David Hudson,
Fightnews.com

“I'll take Mosley by UD. That should guarantee a De La Hoya win.”

Eric Jorgensen,
The CBZ

“It all depends who shows up, but I think that Mosley could be a shot fighter and I think De La Hoya will win a close decision.”

Damon Feldman,
Comcast-Spectacor

“Sugar’ Shane Mosley by split decision. De La Hoya has the corner and the ability to outbox Mosley, but he doesn't have the right hand to stop Mosley from coming inside. Oscar normally enjoys a hand speed advantage over his opponents, something he doesn't have against Mosley. Also note that Oscar is very conservative with his punches at the new weight, possibly due to stamina problems he has shown in the past. This will give Mosley all of the opportunities he needs to get his punches off first and keep Oscar moving and picking his shots. Oscar will land enough to keep it close, but his new style just isn't right to beat Mosley.”

Carlos "Cupey" Guzman
www.fightworld.us

“Oscar De la Hoya and Floyd Mayweather, Sr. beat Shane and Jack Mosley easily. Shane Mosley is personal with Oscar de la Hoya, and I sense that the killer instinct so vividly displayed against Fernando Vargas will re-surface on September 13th. A very motivated Oscar de la Hoya will go all out to make a statement by dominating and beating a not so sweet Shane Mosley in very convincing fashion.”

Elisa Harrison,
Editor
BraggingRightsCorner.com

“After Mosley’s first defeat to Vernon Forrest, the rumors were that he was a washed up, word-slurring fighter. But in the second fight, Mosley proved that though he hadn’t solved the Forrest puzzle or look his normal spectacular self, he didn’t appear to lose his sharpness or speed. In his last bout against Raul Marquez, I felt Shane’s sub-par performance had more to do with Marquez’s ugly style, besides the fact that Marquez is a lefty. Much has been made over Mosley’s lack of experience at 154 pounds but in De La Hoya’s case, he hasn’t appeared to be a much stronger fighter at 154. Some have stated that Oscar will finish this fight with more flare, but he has yet to prove he’s capable of doing this. To me, Oscar’s late success with Vargas had to do with his rival’s weathered chin. Oscar wasn’t rallying - it was more or less one punch that ended the fight. This was the case in many of Oscar’s victories (Oba Carr, Ike Quartey and Derrell Coley). Besides, at 154-pounds, Oscar has looked far from the physical force he was at lightweight and jr. welterweight. Therefore, I think this fight will have little to do with size. This fight will come down to speed and desire and though De La Hoya is looking for sweet revenge, I believe Mosley will show a lot more than any one expects. Mosley will once again out-box and out-hustle De La Hoya in an action-packed fight and win a decision. HBO’s announcing crew will try to make a strong case for a De La Hoya victory in order to hype a Hopkins-De La Hoya clash but, if you disregard their biased commentary, you will know that the right guy won the fight.

JD Vena
Associate Editor,
The CBZ

September 9, 2003
ESPN Classic Boxing: Nothing But The Same old Same old
By Frank Lotierzo
GlovedFist@Juno.com

For the past four or five years ESPN Classic Sports has shown two hours of classic boxing on Tuesday nights. That's the good news. The bad news is they show the same fights over and over. This past Tuesday night they showed Frazier-Bonavena I, and Clay-Jones. I can easily see the interest in both of these fights.

Bonavena was Frazier's 11th pro bout, and he dropped Frazier twice. Jones was Clay's 18th fight and there was some controversy over the scoring and decision. Although I don't see why, I thought it was close, but a clear Clay win. If these were rare showings it would be great. However, both of these fights have been shown on ESPN Classic Sports countless times. It's no longer unique to see them?

If you're like me, you were ecstatic when you heard ESPN Classic was buying the fight film collection of Bill Cayton. Bill Cayton and his partner Jimmy Jacobs owned a company called "The Big Fights Inc." Big Fights Inc. held all the rights to most of the fight films that were in existence through the 1990's.

Big Fights Inc. was the brainchild of Bill Cayton and the late Jimmy Jacobs. Jacobs, started collecting fights after the controversy surrounding the first Louis-Walcott title fight. What happened was Jacobs missed seeing the fight and only knew about it from the newspaper coverage. Most boxing fans are aware that the fight ended in a controversial decision in favor of heavyweight champion Joe Louis.

At the end of the 15th round Louis left the ring before the decision was announced. Louis was totally disappointed and felt he was out-boxed by Jersey Joe. Louis had to be summoned back to the ring for the decision. In the opinion of most who actually saw the fight, Walcott should've been declared the winner. The controversy over the decision is what spurred Jacobs to want to see the fight. He was frustrated that he had no way or access of seeing a replay of the fight immediately. He wanted to see for himself if the immortal "Brown Bomber" was really bettered by Walcott that night. This was the beginning of Jacobs' obsession in the fight film business.

Jim Jacobs is widely known as the greatest Handball player of all-time. He was also quite a boxing enthusiast. In his travels to other countries to give Handball exhibitions, he began buying fight films that were no longer available in the United States. In 1961 Jacobs merged his collection with another collector, Bill Cayton, who owned the "Greatest Fights of the Century". Cayton at the time was a network Television producer, which gave him access to many network fight telecast. Together they formed a corporation called "The Big Fights Inc." to restore and preserve fight films.

Big Fights Inc. produced over one thousand boxing features and documentaries. They were nominated for three Academy Awards, for "Legendary Champions", "The Heavyweight Champions", and "Jack Johnson". They also produced "The Fighters", which is a documentary on the first Frazier-Ali fight. This feature was shown in theatre's throughout the country months after the fight. Big Fights Inc. has the largest library of boxing films in the world, with over 16,000 films.

In March of 1988 Jacobs died of Leukemia. He had been diagnosed with the fatal disease for sometime and even those closest to him were unaware of it until his passing. His partner Bill Cayton and Steve Lott over saw the fight collection after Jacobs passing until selling them to ESPN for what has been reported at upwards of a 100 million dollars!

When this deal was announced, I was thrilled and looked forward to Tuesday night. I thought great, I can finally see how great Sugar Ray Robinson was as a welterweight, or how great Benny Leonard was. Wrong, no such luck. Since ESPN Classic Boxing has been on the air we've been fed nothing but a steady diet of Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson fights. Being a fight collector myself for about the last 25 years, I can tell you that the two fighters for which there is an abundance of films are Ali and Tyson!

From the late 70's through to about 1984, I used to purchase fight films from Jacobs himself out of his New York office. If you caught him when he had time, he would talk boxing non-stop. If he didn't have time he would say, Frank, I can't talk now, call me next week. However, he had one Golden Rule. He said to me, Frank, and I'm paraphrasing here, I trust and believe you, but if it ever gets back to me that you gave out or sold any of the fights you got from me, I'll never do another transaction with you.

Back To ESPN Classic. My contention with them is how many times do we have to be shown the same fights over and over and over? We all know that Ali beat Foreman and Douglas upset Tyson, yet we have been shown those fights continuously. Haven't we seen Clay-Jones, Frazier-Bonavena I, Foreman-Peralta I, Robinson-Fullmer III, and Liston-Machen countless times?

Overall, there is a base of about 15 or 20 fights that have been constantly shown over the last four or five years? Its to the point now that I don't even check the guide on Tuesday nites to see what fights are being aired. The odds are that I've probably seen it many times already, just as you have. I have no doubt that most hard-core boxing fans have to be disappointed! How could you not be?

Here's the reason why I think we get the same select few fights repeatedly. I believe that ESPN is greedy! They are so afraid that if they show some of the really good stuff that we'll tape it and have it in our collection. And they're right, but so what? They have over 16,000 fights, why can't they give us one or two new ones per month? It's not like they are going to run out of fights. No, it's just their way to keep us at their mercy, and hoping to see something we haven't.

The bottom line is that it's greed. They fear so much that if they show the good stuff, their collection will lose some of its value because we will record these treasured fights. I don't know about you, but I'd love to see Robinson-Gavilan, or one of the Charles-Moore fights? However, It's all about money, and they don't want anyone else to have access to any of the unseen footage. It's that simple!

I've tried calling ESPN and complaining about seeing the same fights over and over. They have responded in one of two ways, depending on who you get when you call. The first lie I've been told is that they will be showing some fights never seen before later this year or early next year. The second lie I've been told is that they are giving the public what they want to see. Another words, according to ESPN Classic Boxing, all the fans want to see are Ali and Tyson. Somehow I don't belive this.

For what reason do we get stuck seeing the same fights repeatedly other than ESPN fearing that we'll copy them? The only reason I can think of is that maybe part of the agreement between Big Fights and ESPN states that they can only air certain fights. If that's the case, then why did Big Fights sell them? It's not like they can profit from them any more since they no longer own the rights.

In my opinion ESPN Classic doesn't care about what the fight fans want to see. They'll just continue to tell us what we want to see. I believe ESPN Classic Boxing's concept is the following. Lets show mostly heavyweights because that's who most fight fans want to see. Lets give them some vintage Ali and early Tyson, and sprinkle in some bouts from the 50's and that will appease them. Who cares about Harry Greb or Sam Langford, they won't bring us ratings.

Lastly, in my opinion ESPN Classic doesn't have enough boxing people in the decision or selection process. The bottom line is Ali and Tyson get the ratings, so that's who we'll continue to see. However, don't ever be fooled into thinking or believing that ESPN really cares about boxing, or the fans. Because they don't! If they did they would give us more than just the same old same old?

September 8, 2003
Irwin backs out of Balletto fight
“The Kid” scared of “Tiger”

PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island – Billy “The Kid” Irwin, according to veteran promoter Jimmy Burchfield, is living up to his nickname. Acting more like a kid than man, Irwin has informed Burchfield that he is reneging on his agreement to fight Gary “Tiger” Balletto, claiming he didn’t have enough time to train.

Irwin had verbally agreed to fight International Boxing Union lightweight champion Balletto (29-1-2, 25 KOs), of Providence (RI), October 31 in the ESPN2 Friday Night Fights main event, but the Canadian lightweight title-holder Irwin (41-5, 29 KOs) has officially backed-out of the match.

“Two months isn’t enough time to train,” an irritated Burchfield rhetorically asked. “Irwin must believe Gary Balletto is the top lightweight in the world. Eight weeks is more than enough training time to prepare for a fight. There’s only one reason Irwin doesn’t want to fight Gary and it doesn’t have anything to do with training time.

“We had a verbal agreement. He agreed to his purse along the possibility of raising that amount upon completion of the venue site. We went over all of the particulars and he agreed to everything. Just to make double sure, I then asked him again if the deal was done, so I could go and get the ESPN date. He said, ‘yes.’ I wouldn’t have spoken to ESPN without Irwin first agreeing to fight Balletto. I can’t understand how a real fighter would pull something like this. I even told him we’d have the fight in Canada, if he wanted, but he wasn’t interested. ‘The Kid’ is acting like a baby. The only explanation for something like this is that he’s scared to fight Gary.”

Balletto, 28, is one of the fastest rising young stars in the lightweight division. The only loss of his 32-fight career was by decision to present NABF lightweight champion Michael Clark. Gary is rated No. 2 in the NABF, as well as No. 9 and No. 10 by the NABA and USBA, respectively.

“Now I’m extra working hard to get Gary an opponent for Oct. 31,” a terribly disappointed and obviously upset Burchfield added. “He’ll be a better fighter than Irwin, a man who really wants to fight. Gary’s one of the most exciting and powerful punching lightweights in the world. He’s earned his first nationally televised main event and Irwin’s pathetic cop-out shouldn’t prevent it from happening.”

September 7, 2003
LUCKY EAGLE RESULTS
PRESS RELEASE:


FIGHT NIGHT 42, The Lucky Eagle Casino, Saturday September 6, 2003
Rochester, Washington

Lightweight, Scheduled 4 Rounds
Jaime Morales (7-23-4) (1KO) 140 lbs vs. Jesus Santiago, Renton, WA
(8-4) (w/-1KO) 139 lbs......
Jesus Santiago defeated Jaime Morales in a majority 10 round
decision. Morales' superior reach and experience frustrated Santiago in the
Early going, however Santiago rallied back and aggressively took command of
The fight in the later rounds. Santiago broke down Morales' defense and pounded him inside for the victory.

Welterweight, Scheduled 8 Rounds
Sebastian Valdez , (20-4) (w/-7 KO) 152 lbs vs. Reggie Davis
Portland, OR (8-2) (w/-5KO) 152 lbs..............

Sebastian Valdez defeated Reggie Davis in a unanimous 8 round
decision. Davis was sharp in the first three rounds, opening up a major cut on
the bridge of Valdez's nose. Valdez was relentless, his superior
conditioning eventually wore Davis down. Davis landed several punches below the
belt, and it may have cost him the fight, as there was little difference
between the amazing talent and skill of the two fighters.

Heavyweight, Scheduled 6 Rounds
Chauncy Welliver, Seattle, WA (14-1-2 ) (w/-7KO) 274 lbs vs. John Clark (4-3-1) (w/-3KO) 271lbs....
Chauncy Welliver and John Clark fought to a majority 6 round draw.
John Clark is a beast. His massive 271 lbs body looked like it was chiseled from granite. Chauncy Welliver looked to be the underdog from the opening bell. Welliver a local fighter and a fan of all things deep-fried, looked like bacon fat compared to the shredded physique of his counterpart.

The crowd got behind the pudgy Welliver, and cheered him on as he absorbed every jaw-rattling blow from Clark. Clark would pound Welliver, and Welliver would crack a smile and encourage more pummeling. Welliver slipped a shot in here and there. When the decision came down, it was obvious that Welliver not only the won over the crowd with his showmanship, but the judges caved with every chubby grin he flashed them.
Welliver was out fought, but it was too hard to hand the plump teddy bear a loss, so the fight ended in a draw.

Welterweight, Scheduled 4 Rounds
Jaime De la Torre, (11-2-1) (w/7KO) 168 lbs vs. Irving Green,
(0-6) 168lbs.....
Jaime de la Torre defeated Irving Green by KO in 2:56 of the 3rd
round. Green fought with an unorthodox style, he moved with a jerky and
spastic rhythm that defied logic, and frustrated De la Torre. De la Torre was patient, he methodically backed his convulsing opponent into a corner, and proceeded to light him up. In the third round, the fight was decided when De la Torre exploded with a vicious right hook to Green's chin. Green was stopped cold, and fell to the canvas.

> JR Lightweight, Scheduled 4 Rounds
> Angelo Torres, (7-5-1) (w/-3KO) 126 lbs vs. James Ramos, (1-2)
> (w/-1KO) 127 lbs.......
> Angelo Torres defeated James Ramos in a 4th round unanimous decision.
> Ramos had the reach, and Torres had the heart in a close fight that
came
> down to the wire. Torres' aggressive style and limitless energy gave
him
> a slight edge in the fight.
>
> Lightweight, Scheduled 4 Rounds
> David Torres, (1-0) (w/1KO) 141 lbs vs. Darren Darby (0-2) 139 lbs
> .................
> David Torres defeated Darren Darby by TKO in 30 seconds of the 4th
round.
> Torres destroyed Darby. The fight was never close, the referee
> practically had to pry Darby off the ropes after he called the fight
in
> Torres' favor.
>
> Middleweight , Scheduled 4 Rounds
> Damion Hatch, (7-4-1) (w/ 5KO) 168 lbs vs. Scott Sales, (1-8) 163
> lbs.............
> Damion Hatch defeated Scott Sales by KO in 39 seconds of the first
round.
> Hatch threw two punches, one was a warning shot, and the other was
for
> real. Hatch crippled Sales with a monstrous right.
> Note: All records include tonight's action

September 5, 2003
Opponents Named For Heavyweights Harrison and Purlett For
ESPN2's Tuesday Night Fight Card;
Olympic Gold Medallist to Face Quinn Navarre; Purlett Against Butler

MIAMI (September 5, 2003) . . . Olympic super heavyweight champion Audley Harrison (11-0, 7KOs) will fight Quinn Navarre (30-10-1, 20KOs) as the co-main event for ESPN2's Tuesday Night Fights on Tuesday September 9 at Level Night Club in Miami South Beach, Florida. In the co-feature, Andre Purlett (36-2, 33 KOs,) who lives in south Florida will face tough veteran heavyweight Lionel Butler (39-11, 35KOs.)

After having several opponents withdraw in probable fear, Harrison's new opponent Navarre accepted the challenge against the undefeated Harrison. He has been undefeated since 2001, having recorded five wins since his 6th round loss to British Champion Danny Williams in September 2000. It will be a step up in class for Harrison, who is making his first national appearance on US television. "Quinn Navarre professional experience is a competitive step-up for me," said Harrison. "After I successfully pull off this challenge, people will see how serious I am about where I can go in my professional boxing career."

Purlett, originally from Guyana is coming off an impressive knockout win over veteran Ron Guerrero in the first round. He also has a strong test to pass. "I am looking forward to giving my local fans and boxing fans nationwide a fantastic show," said Purlett. "It's going to be great night of fighting in South Beach."

The evening's event will bring fans ten live bouts including a special attraction featuring popular female heavyweight Kathy Rivers of Hollywood, Florida vs Lisa McFarland, lightweight Daniel Judah, brother of current WBO Junior Welterweight champion Zab Judah vs Shannon Miller, heavyweight Corey Sanders against Aurelio Perez, and junior welterweight Hicklett Lau against Thomas Grissom. Rounding out the show will be Octavia Lara vs Tony McKay (lightweights,) Brian Mihtar vs Joseph Benjamin (junior middleweight.) The show is being co-promoted by A-Force Promotions, Inc. and ARK Promotions Inc., whose owners-Rick and Noah Lazes-own the club, the hot spot for high level boxing shows in the Miami area.

Facts About the September 9 Tuesday Night Fights

All bouts subject to change. Doors open at 7:00 pm, boxing starts at 8:00 pm. The two-hour televised ESPN2 show will begin at 10:00 pm EST. Tickets are available at Level Box Office 1235 Washington Avenue Miami Beach Florida (Corner of 12th and Washington) or www.levelnightclub.com. Ticket prices start at $100 ringside, $75 VIP Stage, $50 VIP Balcony, $25 General Admission Floor (limited availability) and $20 for general admission balcony. For ticket information call 305-604-0009.

September 5, 2003
Balletto-Irwin in IBU lightweight shootout on Halloween
Oct. 31 on ESPN2 Friday Night Fights

PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island – Trick or Treat? Tiger vs. The Kid on Halloween!

International Boxing Union lightweight champion Gary “Tiger” Balletto (29-1-2, 25 KOs) steps up in class October 31 in his first ESPN2 Friday Night Fights main event against Canadian lightweight title-holder Billy “The Kid” Irwin (41-5, 29 KOs), it was announced today by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports, Inc.

Balletto, of Providence (RI), will defend his IBU title for the second time in this 12-round bout, at a site to be announced within 48 hours, featuring a classic match-up between a puncher (Balletto) and a boxer (Irwin).

Based on Irwin’s high rating in the World Boxing Association (No. 12), as well as his vast experience against superior opposition such as former IBF lightweight champ Paul Spadafora and ex-NBA lightweight title-holder Dorin Spivey, “Billy The Kid” figures to enter the ring Oct. 31 as a decisive favorite against the relatively lightly tested Balletto. Irwin also is riding a seven-fight win streak, including a July 25th first-round KO of 24-0 Mark Riggs in his last action.

“This is a perfect match-up of two very exciting fighters,” promoter Jimmy Burchfield said. “I worked very hard to make this happen as the main event on national television (ESPN2). It’s a great test for Gary. He’s never been in against an opponent as talented and experienced as Irwin.”

Irwin is rated No. 2 and No. 8 by the NABA and USBO, respectively, while Balletto is ranked No. 9 and No. 16 by the same organizations. Irwin’s five losses have come against fighters with a combined record of 108-9-4 going into their fights against Billy. In 46 pro fights, Irwin has fought 273 rounds, including five 12-rounders and seven 10-rounders. He is the former IBO, WBC Continental Americas and British Empire lightweight champion. Balletto has fought a total of 115 rounds - 10-rounds only three times - in his 32 matches as a pro.

Site - TBA

September 5, 2003
JIMMY SHERRER
By Pete Ehrmann


In the history of professional boxing in Milwaukee, Jimmy Sherrer stood out as one of the most skilled practitioners of the Sweet Science, and even more so as a boxer with the kind of character and decency not usually associated with such a rough and checkered sport.

That he even stood at all, much less became, in the late 1940s, a contender for the welterweight championship of the world, is a testament to the determination of the man who passed away August 3 at age 79, an active and accomplished
lifetime after doctors predicted that if he even lived to adolescence he would never get out of a wheelchair.

Thanks to a condition known as tuberculosis of the spine, Sherrer spent much of his early boyhood at Children’s Hospital, where numerous surgeries failed to get him back on his feet. That changed the day Sherrer visited the Urban League boxing gym for the first time.

Presiding over that cramped domain on N. 11th and W. Vine Sts., where Milwaukee’s best amateur boxers were developed from 1937-59, was Baby Joe Gans, an even greater wizard at nurturing and inspiring young boys than he was as The
Ring magazine’s “Negro lightweight champion” in 1931.

Gans convinced the handicapped youngster to exercise his body as much as he was able. The exercise did what medical science couldn’t, and in 1941, after Sherrer won the state Diamond Belt amateur boxing title at 118-pounds, he gave the trophy to the doctor who said he’d never walk again – “and thanked
God for Baby Joe Gans.”

The Lincoln High School student added several more amateur titles before Sherrer had his first of 70 professional bouts on May 5, 1944, knocking out Steve Paul in one round.

Sherrer quickly became a favorite here and in Chicago, not only because of his natural boxing skills and punching power, but also the million-dollar smile that advertised his winning personality.

Before Sherrer made his main-event debut in Milwaukee at Borchert Field, beating Billy Parsons on August 1, 1945, the Milwaukee Sentinel’s Stoney McGlynn called him “the kid who came back almost from the grave … a clean living, young
American Negro, Jimmy is not only a credit to his race, but to the
fight game and young America as well.”

When Tommy Lemmon, a hot-headed Irishman and Sherrer’s chief local rival, loudly boasted that he would win their July 29, 1946 fight at the Auditorium, like his idol and role model, heavyweight champion Joe Louis, Sherrer simply held
up a fist and said, “I’ll do my talking with this.”

In the fight, Lemmon went out in the first round.

While Sherrer beat many well-known welterweights and middleweights of his era, one of his most impressive performances isn’t in the record book. In 1945, manager Lou Sangor took him to Chicago to work out with the man
considered by most boxing historians the greatest pound-for-pound boxer in ring history.

Sherrer and Sugar Ray Robinson boxed together for four days, and the Sentinel reported that “those who saw the drills say Jimmy did all right for himself; that even Sugar had to step on the gas to keep abreast of Jimmy.”

Fate tripped the Milwaukee fighter up on the threshold of the big time. Fighting Jerome Frazier in Chicago as a tune-up for a proposed 147-pound title elimination match with top contender Tommy Bell, Sherrer floored Frazier three times in the opening round. Today, three knockdowns in a single round by one
fighter would automatically end the match on a technical knockout. But that rule didn’t exist then, and Frazier came back and tore open Sherrer’s bottom lip to win by a late round TKO.

Although he remained a headliner for several more years, Sherrer wasn’t the same fighter. He retired in 1951 with a record of 48-19-3.

Though declining health in his final years put him back in the
wheelchair he’d amazingly set aside as a youngster, Sherrer continued what he called his “roadwork” by frequently inching his way on tiptoe around the block of the Marian Franciscan Center on the city’s northwest side.

“That’s what I miss about boxing,” he said. “The sacrifice.”

“He was my personal hero and the inspiration of so many that grew up knowing him,” said former Milwaukee resident LeRoy Allen Jr., who followed his favorite boxer into the Golden Gloves and pros.

“Boxing was lucky to have him, Milwaukee was lucky to have him, and the world today sure could use more like him.”


XXX

September 4, 2003
David Tua: Will He Finally Get It Right
By Frank Lotierzo
GlovedFist@Juno.com

David Tua has to be the luckiest fighter in the world. How many times does a fighter get three chances to do something right, once? It's recently been reported that David Tua is going to fight Hasim Rahman for a third time. Only this time it will be for the soon to be vacated WBA heavyweight title formerly held by Roy Jones. I know the way fighters, especially heavyweights, get recycled today and nothing is certain, but this most likely will be the last title shot for both of them. However, this is even more important for Tua since he has yet to win a piece of the title. This has to be considered his best chance, if not his last.

Currently, Tua is officially 1-0-1 vs Rahman. In reality he should be 1-1 vs Rahman, and if not for a left hook after the bell in their first fight, he could be 0-2. Is it possible that just maybe he and his corner will have figured out how to fight Rahman? Going by their track record, it doesn't look promising. In two fights between Tua and Rahman, Tua has been totally out-boxed by the most basic boxing technique and style in the book. Tua has been rendered totally ineffective by Rahman just jabbing and moving to his left away from Tua's big left hook. It's quite obvious that Tua has shown throughout his career that he has no defense for a jab; you can't miss him if you throw it. Tua has also shown that when confronted by movement, he has no answer.

Tua is as dangerous as any heavyweight in boxing if you back straight up against the ropes and stand there and try to fight him. Tua, being a tremendous two-handed puncher can really do damage under this scenario. The problem is, no top heavyweights are foolish enough to be caught in this position when fighting him.

I have said since first seeing Tua fight that he is blessed with two tremendous gifts that most heavyweights would give up ten years of their lives to have: dynamite in either hand and a concrete chin. These are traits that can't be learned. On the other hand, it seems Tua can't be taught what he needs to do to beat the fighters who beat him with the jab and movement. Lennox Lewis, Chris Byrd, and Rahman twice have totally befuddled him with the jab. In those four fights, Tua had yet to use any head and upper body movement. On top of this he has not learned how to cut off the ring, and the importance of it.

What Tua hasn't had embedded into his head yet, is that when you're a short heavyweight with a short reach, you have to get inside. He can't trade jabs with Rahman and expect to win or even compete. Short heavyweights must get inside to be effective. However, there is a way to go about getting inside that is no secret in boxing. The formula for it is: head and upper body movement, cutting off the ring and stepping in front of the opponent, and going to the body so you can come in low underneath the jab. This strategy has been proven to be more than effective. Tom Sharkey, Rocky Marciano, Joe Frazier, and even Mike Tyson in some of his early fights, proved this to be a winning strategy when fighting against fighters who box and use lateral movement.

Watching Rahman fight, I think it's safe to say that he doesn't move like Ali, or Holmes. For Tua to have a chance in this fight, he must emulate Frazier in his fights with Ali, especially the first. In his first fight with Ali, Frazier forced Ali back by slipping his jab and cutting off the ring while going to the body while moving forward. Rahman doesn't have an exceptionally fast jab, and it certainly isn't hard enough to discourage Tua from pressuring him. Rahman's jab is decent, but it's not something Tua shouldn't be able to penetrate. The key is, his technique and strategy must be worked on and perfected during training camp.

For Tua to land any of his big punches, he must force Rahman into position so he can deliver the big hooks and overhand rights. He just can't follow Rahman around the ring eating jabs and expect to get in the one big shot to end the fight. He used this strategy in the previous two bouts with Rahman, and other than the left hook he connected with after the bell in the first fight, he hasn't landed enough big shots to end the fight.

In the upcoming third bout between Tua and Rahman, I expect Rahman to be in tremendous shape. In their last fight Rahman was in poor condition and came in very heavy which almost cost him the fight. Rahman will be very determined this time since he thinks he has beaten Tua twice, but hasn't a win on his record to show for it. Rahman doesn't have to change his strategy a bit for Tua. He knows that as long as he keeps his jab working, and his feet moving, Tua doesn't have an answer. Look for Rahman to fight the same as he has in the previous fights, only with more purpose.

For Tua to finally gain a piece of the elusive title for which he has clamored, it will take a career effort. To accomplish this he must get in great shape, weighing in the low 230's is a must. He must give Rahman head and upper body movement while closing the distance by stepping in front of him and cutting off the ring. Tua has to go to the body early to try and take Rahman's legs away, forcing him to fight flatfooted. And Tua must have a high punch out put, as it's imperative to be busy from bell to bell. This is his last chance to prove he's not just going to go down as a fighter who will be mentioned as one of the best to never win the title.

September 4, 2003
Jose Rivera fighting for vacant WBA welterweight title
Sept. 13 versus Michel Trabant in Germany

WORCESTER, Mass. – Boxing’s best-kept secret, “El Gallo” Jose Antonio Rivera, departs Friday for Germany. This is no European vacation, though, for the 30-year-old professional boxer. He is on a mission to capture the World Boxing Association welterweight championship against unbeaten Michel Trabant.

Trabant (38-0, 18 KOs), the 25-year-old European welterweight champion who will be fighting in his hometown of Berlin, and Rivera (36-3-1, 24 KOs), of Worcester (MA) via Puerto Rico and Philadelphia, are fighting for the WBA title that became vacant when Ricardo Mayorga defeated Vernon Forrest to unify the World Boxing Council and WBA crowns. Mayorga was upgraded to “Super Champion” and the WBA mandated a title match between its top two contenders No. 2 Thomas Damgaard and No. 3 Trabant (No. 1 is vacant).

When Damgaard’s promoter, Team Palle, failed to meet a WBA-imposed deadline to stage the fight, the WBA matched Trabant against the next-in-line challenger, No. 4 Rivera, while mandating the Trabant-Rivera winner must face Damgaard within 120 days of the fight.

Rivera doesn’t have any complaints about fighting Berlin homeboy Trabant in his backyard. “I have no problem with it,” Jose said about fighting Trabant in Berlin. “I’m willing to do whatever it takes to win the world title. Nobody said fighting for the world championship would be easy. I know he doesn’t have a typical European style. He works the body good and this should be a great fight.”

A virus cancelled Jose’s last scheduled fight this past February and he hasn’t fought since July 27 2002, when he stopped Elias Cruz in the second round. “I’m not worried about ring rust,” Jose remarked. “I’m in great shape and have been working out for months. I’m fighting for the ultimate prize -- the world championship. I’ve always hoped to get this opportunity. Many great fighters never get a title shot and I’m very fortunate. I believe I’m one of the top welterweights in the world. This is the first step in terms of achieving my goal, but I’m not looking past this fight.”

Rivera, a single father, will be fighting for his 10-year-old son, Anthonee. “He’s always been very supportive of me,” Rivera added. “Sometimes I’m not there with him as often as possible because of training, but he’ll be with me in spirit for this fight. He is a big motivator because my dream is to buy a house for Anthonee and me.

“I’d like to thank God for watching over me, not just in boxing, but in life. I’d also like to thank those most essential in my boxing career – my manager, Tank (Steven Tankanow), trainers Carlos Garcia and Luis ‘Chico’ Lopez, attorney Anthony Cardinale, promoter Don King, family and all my fans.”

Rivera rides a six-fight win streak into the Trabant match, including an NABA welterweight title fight decision in 12 against Pat Byrd, as well as a pair of successful championship defenses versus former WBA & WBC light welterweight champ Frankie Randall (TKO10) and Bobby Heath (TKO6). Jose also holds a 10-round decision against current NABF welterweight champion Teddy Reid.

“God must feel I’m ready to send me to fight in the Lion’s Den,” the religious Rivera concluded. “This is what I’ve been waiting and working so hard for. I’ve always wanted to be a world champion.”

Even if fighting an undefeated German in Berlin is the way he has to do it.

September 2, 2003
Remembering The Rock
By Frank Lotierzo
GlovedFist@Juno.com

This is my remembrance of the day Rocky Marciano was killed in a plane crash. Yesterday, September 1st would have been his 80th birthday.

It was Sunday Night August 31st, 1969 when he was called to his final resting place, on the eve of his 46th birthday September 1st. There was a terrible thunderstorm that night with a low ceiling. Rocky had talked the inexperienced pilot into making the flight against his better judgement. Typical Rocky bravado, oh it's only some rain, we'll be fine!

Rocky was anxious to get back to his Ft. Lauderdale home for the birthday party that was planned for him by his 16 year old daughter Mary Ann. It was a party he would never make. Rocky was going to make an appearance at ringside of a fighter in which a friend of his had an interest. He was flying from Chicago to Des Moines for his appearance. Tragically the plane crashed into an open field with a tree in it near a wooded creek. All three aboard the plane were killed instantly, the pilot, Rocky, and his friend. The National Transportation Security Board's report stated that "The pilot attempted operation exceeding his ability and level."

I remember it was Monday morning Labor day, and it was a beautiful sunny day. I was nine years old and boxing had been an obsession of mine for about four years. It was late summer 1969, and a lot was happening in the heavyweight division, and I couldn't get enough. In June of 1969 Joe Frazier had stopped Jerry Quarry in seven heated rounds. Jimmy Ellis, who held the WBA heavyweight title, tried to upstage Frazier while he was being interviewed by Howard Cosell after stopping Quarry. A few months later Ellis and Frazier signed to meet in February of 1970 for what was being billed as the undisputed heavyweight title.

During the summer of 1969 rumors were flying around that Ali and Frazier were going to fight in some obscure place so the government couldn't intervene. Some of the rumors had them fighting on a Jet plane flying at 30,000 feet, or on an Indian Reservation where the government supposedly had no jurisdiction. The best one was that Ali and Frazier were going to fight at Frazier's gym in north Philadelphia for free!

On that fateful Monday morning I rode my bike over to Radnor baseball field at the end of Radnor Avenue in Haddonfield N.J. where I grew up. As a kid I loved riding a bike and looked for any excuse to ride. I always would go over to Radnor field on weekend mornings to see who was out. We used to play football or shot baskets and just hang out. I was friendly with a guy named Bob Mitchell who lived at the end of Radnor Ave. He was older than me, maybe 15 or 16. He was a good basketball player and started on the high school basketball team. But, the main reason I used to look for him was because he was a big boxing fan.

Bob was also big Ali fan, and I was always pestering him to see if he thought Ali could beat Frazier if they ever fought. Since he was a fan of Ali, he always assured me that if they ever fought, Ali would win. That morning around 9:30, I remember going up the street and not seeing anyone. So I parked my Schwinn Apple Krate and sat on the bleachers hoping Bob would come out and talk some boxing, he probably saw me and was waiting for me to leave. I used to hound him constantly about Ali and Frazier.

After a while I got back on my bike and started to leave. Just as I was passing his house he came running out with a newspaper in his hand. I turned around and rode up to him thinking he was going to show me and article on Ali or Frazier? When I approached him he held up the paper, it was the front page of The Philadelphia Inquirer. It had a picture of Rocky Marciano knocking out Archie Moore in what was his last fight 14 years ago. The headline read, "Former Champ Marciano dies in Plane Crash".

I couldn't believe it. I heard so much about Marciano from my grandfather who used to come over our house for dinner on Sunday's. My grandfather was one of those ol' school Italians, and as far as he was concerned, nobody coulda beat the Rock. I used to tease him saying, "granpop, Ali would've cut Marciano to ribbons". He would actually get mad at me for saying that, and he'd start yelling at my father for letting me talk that way. My father would have to warn me not to tease my grandfather about Ali being able to beat Marciano when he came over. Although I was petrified of my father, I'd still sneak it in and my grandfather would smack me on the back of my head as my father gave me the eye!

My grandfather was absolutely sure Marciano would've knocked Ali out. Remember, this is late summer of 1969 and some still had questions about Ali's heart and chin. At that time the Ali story was only about half complete. Ironically, Marciano and Ali had just completed filming the fight scenes for their computer fight in July. Unfortunately Marciano never lived to hear that the computer picked him as the winner.

On January 20th of 1970, Woroner Productions released the hypothetical computer fight between the only two undefeated heavyweight champions in history at the time. The computer picked Marciano as the winner, stopping Ali in the 13th round. Over the years my grandfather and I would argue over who would've won had Rocky and Ali crossed paths at their best. The one thing I never told him was that I wasn't as confident and certain as I had always projected to be. My grandfather never let me forget it until the day he died in 1997, that the computer picked Marciano to beat Ali. Rest assured, I did get my shots back at him! "I told him the guy who programmed the computer was a little fat Italian who hated Ali."

What I Respect About Marciano

What I respect about Rocky Marciano is that the title meant something to him. Being undefeated meant something to him. This is why he trained and prepared like no other fighter in history. Marciano knew he wasn't the most talented or gifted fighter. This is why he pushed and challenged his body. Rocky's mind set was, you may be able to beat me, but you can't beat my body!

I also like that he never sold out! He could've made a King's Fortune to come out of retirement to fight Patterson, Johansson, or Liston, but he didn't. He loved being perfect too much, and was smart enough to know that he could never summon the greatness back. There was no way he'd let Patterson, Johansson, or Liston have his name on their record, knowing that the name was all that remained. Marciano was too selfish in a good way to let his name be on their record, like Louis' is on his, or Ali's is on Holmes, or Holmes' is on Tyson's. Being undefeated separated him from other former champions and he knew it. Marciano was shrewd and he knew that 49-0 (43) gave him certain bragging rights over all other heavyweight champs. It can argued forever and a day who could've or who would've beaten Marciano, but nobody ever did. A famous boxing trainer once said, you are what your record is.

September 1, 2003
Sat. Sept. 6 at Lucky Eagle
PRESS RELEASE:
Subject: Fight Night 42 Lucky Eagle Casino


Saturday, September 6, 2003 at 7:00pm
Reggie Davis Added to Card in 8 Rounder vs. Sebastian Valdez


Dateline: Rochester, WA, August 26, 2003

Reggie Davis (8-1 with 5 ko's) of Portland, OR, will face Sebastian Valdez (19-4 with 7 ko's) from Oakland, CA in an eight round semi-main event.
Davis ko'd Ishwar Amador in April at the Lucky Eagle Casino, and was voted "Fan Favorite". Valdez defeated Floyd Weaver, of the "Weaver Twins" by knocking him out in the seventh round in September of 2001.

In the 10 round main event features Jesus Santiago of Renton, WA will face Jaime Morales from Waco Texas. Santiago defeated Rafael Ortiz in November 2002 and June at the Lucky Eagle


Other fighters expected:
* Jaime de la Torre vs. Victor Branson
* James Ramos vs. Angelo Torres
* Damion Hatch vs. Scott Sales
* Darren Darby vs. David Torres

Changes and additional information will be announced as they occur.

Tickets $40 ringside, $25 reserved, $20 reserved of general admission
available at Ticketmaster, casino (800-720-1788) or Twin Cities
Fuller's stores.

Duncan MacLeod

Director of Marketing
Lucky Eagle Casino
www.luckyeagle.com
"You Just Get More"

********************************************************************

September 1, 2003
Emily the Champ Fights Russia
U.S. Champion Klinefelter Wins Another Title Before Heading to Russia

Kansas City, Missouri - This weekend, Emily Klinefelter became a two-time winner of the Ringside Championships, a boxing tournament open to anyone throughout the world. In the Saturday 110 pound semifinal, she defeated Canada’s Chelsey Barnett. In the Sunday final, she defeated Colorado’s Candice Byrd. On Monday, U.S. Champion Klinefelter was on her way to Russia, where she will represent the United States in competitions in St. Petersburg and Moscow. An Iowa City native, 19 year old Klinefelter is a student at the University of Iowa, trained by Cyberboxing staff writer Adam Pollack.

August 31, 2003
Molly Goes Gold
Re: Kansas City, MO Amateur Tournament
Date: Sun, 31 Aug 2003 17:32:06 -0700

Molly McConnell, 145 pounds senior open division,of the West Portland Boxing Club in Portland, Oregon won her second
consecutive National Title at the "Ringside National Labor Day Tournament". The tournament is recognized as the largest amateur boxing event in the world.

This year teams from Russia, Ireland, Canada, Puerto Rico and USA pariticipated.

Molly beat Canadian Ayana Pelletier in the semi finals and
won the tile my defeating Elizabeth Monny of New York in the finals. In both
bouts Molly was very sharp and is constantly improving. Today she found a home for her left hook, and after a year of depending on the hard right she has now added to her arsenal. Molly will end her amateur career at the end of this month at the National PAL in Toledo, Ohio (Sept 20 - 27) and with over five years of
experience behind her, will add a new force to be reckoned with to the pro's.
V/R Coach Bill Meartz
West Portland Boxing Club

August 31, 2003
Remembering The Rock
By Frank  Lotierzo

 
This is my remembrance of the day Rocky Marciano was killed in a plane crash. Monday September 1st 2003 would have been his 80th birthday.  
 
It was Sunday Night August 31st, 1969 when he was called to his final resting place, on the eve of his 46th birthday September 1st. There was a terrible thunderstorm that night with a low ceiling. Rocky had talked the inexperienced pilot into making the flight against his better judgement. Typical Rocky bravado, oh it's only some rain, we'll be fine!
 
Rocky was anxious to get back to his Ft. Lauderdale home for the birthday party that was planned for him by his 16 year old daughter Mary Ann. It was a party he would never make. Rocky was going to make an appearance at ringside of a fighter in which a friend of his had an interest. He was flying from Chicago to Des Moines for his appearance. Tragically the plane crashed into an open field with a tree in it near a wooded creek. All three aboard the plane were killed instantly, the pilot, Rocky, and his friend. The National Transportation Security Board's report stated that "The pilot attempted operation exceeding his ability and level." 
 
I remember it was Monday morning Labor day, and it was a beautiful sunny day. I was nine years old and boxing had been an obsession of mine for about four years. It was late summer 1969, and a lot was happening in the heavyweight division, and I couldn't get enough. In June of 1969 Joe Frazier had stopped Jerry Quarry in seven heated rounds. Jimmy Ellis, who held the WBA heavyweight title, tried to upstage Frazier while he was being interviewed by Howard Cosell after stopping Quarry. A few months later Ellis and Frazier signed to meet in February of 1970 for what was being billed as the undisputed heavyweight title.
 
During the summer of 1969 rumors were flying around that Ali and Frazier were going to fight in some obscure place so the government couldn't intervene. Some of the rumors had them fighting on a Jet plane flying at 30,000 feet, or on an Indian Reservation where the government supposedly had no jurisdiction. The best one was that Ali and Frazier were going to fight at Frazier's gym in north Philadelphia for free!
 
On that fateful Monday morning I rode my bike over to Radnor baseball field at the end of Radnor Avenue in Haddonfield N.J. where I grew up. As a kid I loved riding a bike and looked for any excuse to ride. I always would go over to Radnor field on weekend mornings to see who was out. We used to play football or shot baskets and just hang out. I was friendly with a guy named Bob Mitchell who lived at the end of Radnor Ave. He was older than me, maybe 15 or 16. He was a good basketball player and started on the high school basketball team. But, the main reason I used to look for him was because he was a big boxing fan.
 
Bob was also big Ali fan, and I was always pestering him to see if he thought Ali could beat Frazier if they ever fought. Since he was a fan of Ali, he always assured me that if they ever fought, Ali would win. That morning around 9:30, I remember going up the street and not seeing anyone. So I parked my Schwinn Apple Krate and sat on the bleachers hoping Bob would come out and talk some boxing, he probably saw me and was waiting for me to leave. I used to hound him constantly about  Ali and Frazier.
 
After a while I got back on my bike and started to leave. Just as I was passing his house he came running out with a newspaper in his hand. I turned around and rode up to him thinking he was going to show me and article on Ali or Frazier? When I approached him he held up the paper, it was the front page of The Philadelphia Inquirer.  It had a picture of Rocky Marciano knocking out Archie Moore in what was his last fight 14 years ago. The headline read, "Former Champ Marciano dies in Plane Crash".
 
I couldn't believe it. I heard so much about Marciano from my grandfather who used to come over our house for dinner on Sunday's. My grandfather was one of those ol' school Italians, and as far as he was concerned, nobody coulda beat the Rock. I used to tease him saying, "granpop, Ali would've cut Marciano to ribbons". He would actually get mad at me for saying that, and he'd start yelling at my father for letting me talk that way. My father would have to warn me not to tease my grandfather about Ali being able to beat Marciano when he came over. Although I was petrified of my father, I'd still sneak it in and my grandfather would smack me on the back of my head as my father gave me the eye!
 
My grandfather was absolutely sure Marciano would've knocked Ali out. Remember, this is late summer of 1969 and some still had questions about Ali's heart and chin. At that time the Ali story was only about half complete. Ironically, Marciano and Ali had just completed filming the fight scenes for their computer fight in July. Unfortunately Marciano never lived to hear that the computer picked him as the winner.
 
On January 20th of 1970, Woroner Productions released the hypothetical computer fight between the only two undefeated heavyweight champions in history at the time. The computer picked Marciano as the winner, stopping Ali in the 13th round. Over the years my grandfather and I would argue over who would've won had Rocky and Ali crossed paths at their best. The one thing I never told him was that I wasn't as confident and certain as I had always projected to be. My grandfather never let me forget it until the day he died in 1997, that the computer picked Marciano to beat Ali. Rest assured, I did get my shots back at him! "I told him the guy who programmed the computer was a little fat Italian who hated Ali." 
 
What I Respect About Marciano
 
What I respect about Rocky Marciano is that the title meant something to him. Being undefeated meant something to him. This is why he trained and prepared like no other fighter in history. Marciano knew he wasn't the most talented or gifted fighter. This is why he pushed and challenged his body. Rocky's mind set was, you may be able to beat me, but you can't beat my body!
 
I also like that he never sold out! He could've made a King's Fortune to come out of retirement to fight Patterson, Johansson, or Liston, but he didn't. He loved being perfect too much, and was smart enough to know that he could never summon the greatness back. There was no way he'd let Patterson, Johansson, or Liston have his name on their record, knowing that the name was all that remained. Marciano was too selfish in a good way to let his name be on their record, like Louis' is on his, or Ali's is on Holmes, or Holmes' is on Tyson's. Being undefeated separated him from other former champions and he knew it. Marciano was shrewd and he knew that 49-0 (43) gave him certain bragging rights over all other heavyweight champs. It can argued forever and a day who could've or who would've beaten Marciano, but nobody ever did. A famous boxing trainer once said, you are what your record is.  
 

  ***************************************************************