San Francisco, CA- People say I am so far ahead of nost boxing writers or so-called journalists, that I must get lonely. Noe quite! But today I bring you two exciting hours of “Ring Talk” on boxing and the UFC with my guest list below. Placed a huge bet on Nonito Donaire, see the Odds/Predictions and a UFC 143 preview on Nick Diaz-Carlos Condit. All today at RingTalk.com

San Francisco, CA- “Ring Talk” will air an hour of boxing (11-12 PM PT) before an hour of UFC/MMA. My boxing guests will include Trainer of The Year, Virgil Hunter, boxing matchmaker and historian Johnny Bos, just to name two. In the UFC/MMA hour that begins at 12 PM PT we are expecting Jui Jitsu practicioner Matt Grizzle and MMA genius Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Listen online at two outlets: Click to listen LIVE with Media Player and Click Channel 2 & Listen Live Without Media Player

BEST FILIPINO FIGHTER ON PLANET IN SEMI-MAIN EVENT

Nonito Donaire (27-1, 18 KOs) vs. Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. (21-1-1, 18 KOs) (vacant WBO 122 lb. title) Odds/Prediction: Donaire 3-1. Dropping $9,000 to win $3,000. Donaire is a better boxer, more talented, but the Filipino people and media are so far up Manny Pacquiao’s ass they are in his colon! Nonito will handle Vasquez with relative ease.

CRUISERWEIGHT TITLE ON THE LINE

Fraport Arena, Frankfurt, Germany- Yoan Hernandez (25-1, 13 KOs) vs. Steve Cunningham (24-3, 12 KOs) (IBF 200 lb. title) Odds/Prediction: Hernandez 2 1/2 to 1. Remmatch of 2011 fight that ended in Technical Decision 6 because of cut caused by head butt suffered by Hernandez. Cunningham in tough spot. Don’t see him winning.

Pedro Fernandez

Nick "The Killer" Diaz

San Francisco, CA- Anytime Nick Diaz is in the room, you know the old saying, “Shit Happens.” The same adage applies when Diaz, the #1 ranked UFC welterweight (170 lbs) steps in the UFC cage of battle known as the Octagon. To be both blunt and truthful, the bad boy from Stockton, CA is so intimidating that he scares the word I used above out of you. Having watched the triathlete fight a number of times, I have to tell you that Nick is never in a dull fight.

NICK DIAZ IS ONE SCARY BUT SKILLED GUY!

Does that mean his main event in UFC 143 tonight against Carlos Condit is a fight for the ages? Yes, for Diaz, now 26-7 and on a 12 fight winning streak is a combination of a young George Foreman, Sonny Liston, Arturo Gatti and Muhammad Ali. What do I mean by that? Diaz is powerful, fierce, gutsy, unforgiven, feared and highly skilled.

CONDIT NO SLOUCH & THE PICK OF SOME

The man standing across the cage tonight will be Carlos Condit (27-5) is a formidable foe, so talented that Sam “All Jam” Perez, AKA “Slammin’ Sammy” Perez is leaning towards Condit to win this battle for the interim title held by Georges St. Pierre, who is sidelined with an injury. Until he loses, I’ll never pick anyone to beat Diaz, as he is the roughest, meanest MO FO in the world of the UFC and Mixed Martial Arts.

DIAZ ALMOST BOXED EX-CHAMP JEFF LACY

When veteran (Hall of Fame) promoter Don Chargin signed Diaz to fight former IBF 168 lb. boxing champion Jeff Lacy last year, UFC czar Dana White blew a fuse. But because Diaz had been a Strikeforce fighter with a clause that allowed him to “box professionally,” White had to throw some money in Diaz’s direction and promise him a fight with St. Pierre, one of the most popular fighters in the history of MMA.

IF DIAZ-CONDIT GOES ROUTE IT’LL BE A BLOOD BATH!

Although I predict Diaz will beat Condit into submission, if it were to go the five five-minute rounds, it will be the most horrific half hour of Condit’s life. Anything can happen in MMA fights, but to go against Diaz here is not a wise move. Although he has been called erratic by some, I expect Condit to be calling Nick Diaz, “Daddy” when it is all said and done. Some say Diaz does not handle the spotlight well, tonight that supposition will be answered.

SEMI MAIN A HEAVYWEIGHT AFFAIR

Last time the UFC universe saw Brazil’s Fabricio Werdum (14-5-1) he laid down vs. #1 heavyweight contender Alistair Overeem. Tonight he faces former fatman Roy Nelson (16-6) in a fight that has a submission ending to it. Werdum was once highly touted. Nelson on the other hand had the distinction of being regarded as nothing more than a fat guy. Having lost fights because he was fat and not in prime condition, the man that defeated Kimbo Slice with ease has finally got his act together. That being said, “Big Country” Nelson should be able to outwork the Brazilian on the mat as the American’s Jui Jitsu skills I feel are superior to Verdum.

TMZ TV SHOW FAVORITE KOSHCHECK FAVORED OVER PIERCE

Once in a while I watch TMZ, you know the TV show that I beat to the punch when it came to publishing Oscar De La Hoya in transvestite garb. One night, Josh Koscheck (16-5) was featured in a segment as he was leaving a Los Angeles, CA nightclub. His demeanor was like that of the coolest cat on the planet. Although he did get outclassed by St. Pierre, I don’t think his foe this evening Mike Pierce (13-4) is prepared for Josh’s intensity and versatility. Koshcheck looks to be a class better than the rugged Pierce.

UFC PRELIMS ARE ON FX TONIGHT

Max Holloway vs. Dustin Poirier, Alex Caceres vs. Edwin Figueroa, Jorge Lopez vs. Matt Riddle, Rafael Natal vs Michael Kuiper & Dustin Edwards vs. Mike Stumpf. Check your TV listings for FX prelims.

Pedro Fernandez

Chavez whipping on yet another bum

New York, NY- “Big time” boxing makes it’s first appearance of the year when Mexico’s “Son of a Legend” WBC Middleweight (160) Champion Julio Ceasar Chavez Jr. (44-0-1, 31 KOs) squares off against “been there done that, but never did it” hapless challenger Marco Antonio Rubio (53-5-1, 36 KOs) over 12 proposed rounds of throw down at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, Saturday at 10:00 PM ET on HBO.

IS “JUNIOR” THE GOODS OR JUST HYPE?

At the tender age of just 26 years old, Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. has already competed in 45 fights without knowing defeat. However, his level of opposition has left much to be desired. Since his professional debut in 2003, Chavez opponents have commonly been comprised of “C” class battlers with losing records. During that span Chavez went “life and death” with two (at best) “B” class fighters and barely crossed the finish line in each. To his credit, Chavez has displayed proven boxing ability; especially in the educated way he varies his punch selection. In addition, by recently hiring Hall of Fame bound boxer/trainer Freddie Roach, Chavez has shown a willingness to continue to learn his craft. At the end of the day, the acquisition of a legendary trainer can only help, plus: Julio can bang some.

MARCO WHO?

A non household name on just about any part of the pugilist planet, Marco Antonio Rubio is solid scrapper who possesses minor power. Albeit, Marco usually only blasts out “B” and “C” level opponents; his punching strength could be a telling facet in seeing if Chavez is better then the aforementioned “lighter” opposition that has suffered Rubio’s wrath.

Donaire beating the shit out of Montiel

DONAIRE IN THE UNDERCARD IS HIGH ON EVERYONE’S TOP TEN ‘POUND FOR POUND’ LIST

Recently crowned WBO/WBC bantamweight (118) kingpin and “pound for pound” top five elite boxer in the world “The Filipino Flash” Nonito Donaire (27-1, 18 KOs) returns to the ring in attempt to earn another title as he steps up in weight to clam the vacant WBO super bantamweight (122) strap against dangerous hard punching former belt holder Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. (21-1-1, 18 KOs) in scheduled 12 round affair.

FACE TO THE FLOOR

Bursting on the scene with a sensational one punch knockout win over then undefeated Vic Darchinyin (W KO 5), Nonito Donaire’s slaying of the “Raging Bull” propelled his status as challenger to champion overnight. Conventional wisdom led one to believe that a win of such magnitude would have opened the doors to more marquee fights and lucrative paydays. However that wasn’t the case. In a victory that was supposed to elevate him into the upper stratosphere of the sport, Nonito was instead fighting against mostly over matched fighters on “small time” independent Top Rank PPV cards. However, by knocking out 8 of his last 10 opponents in stellar fashion, the “suits” at the major networks (and the public) are finally starting to take notice to the uniquely violent “T.V. friendly” skills of Donaire. Nonito’s highlights during that sinister 10 fight span include breaking the face and smashing the nose of rough brawler Volodymyr Sydorenko (W KO 4) and starching former two-division belt holder Fernando Montiel with an electrifying second round one-punch knockout.

Writer’s note: Being that Donaire is considered to be a world elite pugilist, and the fact that his bout appears to be the more difficult of the two scheduled on the card, Nonito should be the featured attraction, not “dada’s boy” Chavez.

SILENT FISTIC STORM

Albeit a non-household name, Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. has campaigned as a professional for the better part of six years with one lone loss, a knockout against savvy veteran mad man Jorge Arce (L TKO 12). Mostly competing against stiff opposition in a very talent deep division, Vazquez  is a former titlest and from such accolade; has truly merited the status of being labeled as a “worthy” contender to gain another championship. Now in his seemingly most difficult assignment to date, Wilfredo will look to call upon his feverishly furious tempo of artistic mayhem to overcome his vastly skilled nemesis.

ESPN CRACKS THAT FIRST BEER FOR YA

Adhering to the norm, “ESPN Friday Night Fights” kicks off the boxing weekend. Each installment of the decorated series features news, analysis of upcoming bouts, interviews, celebrity guests offering insight into the world of boxing, and competitive scraps. This week’s main event pits formertwo time middleweight title challenger Edison Miranda (35-6, 30 KOs) opposite of unheralded scrapper Isaac Chilemba (18-1-1, 9 KOs) at the Texas Station Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, Friday at 10 PM ET.

John Signorella

Angelo Dundee & then Cassius Clay

San Francisco, CA- Having known Angelo Dundee personally for some 30+ years, I always considered him an immortal soul who would live on forever. Yesterday, at the age of 90, the trainer that sprang to fame after being hired to train the then Cassius Clay by a group of Louisville, KY businessmen, died. Cassius, who became Muhammad X and then Muhammad Ali in 1964, this before being exiled from boxing by the “establishment” for refusing to take part in the Vietnam war, was not Dundee’s first world champion as many believe. That honor belonged to light heavyweight Willie Pastrano.

ALWAYS CHRIS DUNDEE’S LITTLE BROTHER!

Angelo was never connected with Organized Crime, the Mob, or the Syndicate, as were a number of trainers who broke into boxing in the 40s and 50s. He was always coveted by his older brother Chris Dundee, the Miami based promoter who was one of the most powerful men in the boxing game for decades. Chris, who passed away in 1998 at 91, kept the sharks away from his younger sibling until Angelo learned the ins and outs of the boxing game.

ANGELO WORKED WITH MANY FIGHTERS

But the two fighters that most people remember Angelo being involved with were the aforementioned Ali and “Sugar Ray” Leonard. When Ali was on the verge of being KO’d by Henry Cooper, this after being dropped with a left hook in 1962, Dundee either punctured a hole in one of Ali’s (still Cassius Clay) gloves, or he increased the size of a hole that had occurred in the prior round. With confusion reigning, the British boxing officials went in search of another glove. Ten minutes later, with no replacement glove available, the fight continued and Clay went on to stop Sir Henry Cooper.

PROPELLED LEONARD TO VICTORY OVER HEARNS

With his eye nearly swollen shut, Leonard was on the verge of having referee Davey Pearl stop the Tommy Hearns fight in 1981. Between the 13th and 14th rounds, Dundee screamed at Leonard. “You’re blowing it son.” Knowing defeat was at hand, Leonard got off the stool and went out and stopped Hearns by battering Tommy on the ropes. When Pearl did stop the fight, neither Hearns nor his cornerman Emanuel Steward balked at the call.

STAYED WITH ALI UNTIL THE BITTER END

Having had conversations with Dundee many times over the years, I asked him why he allowed a 38-year old Muhammad Ali to fight Larry Holmes, and why he didn’t quit Ali’s corner after Dr. Ferdie Pacheco, Ali’s personal physician noted the neurological problems that would later all but silence one of the greatest voices of the 20th century. “He (Ali) got in the best shape he could, but I knew it wasn’t enough. It wasn’t about the money, I stayed with Muhammad because I felt it would be better with me there, than to not be. I stopped the Holmes fight after ten rounds, that night was one of the most painful in my life.”

BECAME A HIRED GUN OF SORTS IN LATER YEARS

Two-time heavyweight champion George Foreman utilized Dundee in the corner during a number of his “comeback” fights in the 1990s. Oscar De La Hoya also brought in Angelo as an “advisor” when Oscar was at the top of his game. A great motivator in the gym and corner, Angelo, although he died at yesterday at 90, was never the same after his wife Helen passed a couple of years ago.

PEDRO PULLS A “BOOT” WHILE INTERVIEWING ANGELO

One night, circa 1991, I was doing a two-hour live edition of “Ring Talk” at the International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, NY with Dundee being my premier guest. Alongside Angelo was his wife Helen. All throughout the broadcast I kept referring to her by another name. Instead of correcting me, Angelo introduced me after the show to, “my wife Helen,” whom I had met several times over the years. I think I was calling her Mary, or something to that effect. While I was mortified, both Mr. & Mrs. Dundee laughed it off.

LAST TALKED TO ANGELO SIX MONTHS AGO!

After offering my condolences on the phone after Helen’s passing, Dundee, who told that while my writing was “outstanding,” I would never make a dime because of my brutal honesty in regards to boxing and the heathens that control it. Six months ago, I called him out of the blue and asked him to do some radio. Angie told he couldn’t that week, but that I could call him the following week. Something came up, I forgot, and never spoke to the “Great One” again.

THE GOLDEN RULE OF ANGELO DUNDEE

I once asked Dundee what was the toughest thing about training fighters. His response, “Wives and girlfriends.” When I pressed him he said, “I never get involved, never offer an opinion regarding a wife or girlfriend for I thought it was a ‘lose-lose’ situation. Either way I went, somebody would get upset and I risked alienating a fighter (or the wife) forever. So when guys asked me about domestic issues, I never got involved.”

Wali Muhammad, Bundini Brown & Ali

Dundee, Drew “Bundini” Brown, Wali Muhammad (Walter Youngblood) and Ferdie Pacheco were the principles in the corner of Cassius Clay/Muhammad Ali. Bundini died at 59 in 1987 after a fall in his Los Angeles apartment. Wali Muhammad passed just a few weeks ago. Ferdie Pacheco and Muhammad Ali are the only surviving members of the Ali corner.

THE ANGELO DUNDEE EPITAPH

“Here lies Angelo Dundee, an honest man who prospered and gained notoriety in a dishonest game.”

Pedro Fernandez

Filipinos Demanding Mayweather Fight

San Francisco, CA- A writer who used to work for Don King, who many think “unofficially” now works for Manny Pacquiao’s promoter Bob Arum, one Michael “The Menace” Marley, is now reporting that Arum and his company Top Rank will try and go forward with a Floyd Mayweather fight, sooner, rather than later. Reason being, Pacquiao is taking more heat at home in the Philippines by his countryman than he can handle.

NO FIGHT & MANNY WON’T GET ELECTED “DOG CATCHER”

The Filipino people are up in arms over the pablum being fed to them by promoter Arum. And seeing he speaks for Pacquiao, Manny is taking the brunt of the criticism in his homeland. Many Pinoys and Pinays are starting to wonder out loud, “Is Manny Scared Of Floyd?” If not, “Why Won’t He Fight Floyd?” I think I have gone over the reasons that the egomaniac and power thirsty Arum, who all but has had everything his way since the departure of longtime rival Don King, doesn’t want the fight, mainly that he isn’t holding the better hand of cards in the public eye, Mayweather is by agreeing to a 50-50 split!

MANNY HAS LET IT BE KNOWN!

Pacquiao, who has never been the subject of criticism at home, now knows the pain involved in being Arum’s tool. Thus, to his credit Manny has supposedly told Arum to stop bull spitting people about his cut from the November bout with Juan Manuel Marquez fight won’t allow him to be ready on May 5, and to make the fight! Looking at this from purely a political point of view, Pacquiao has to be embarrassed with the way Arum has portrayed him in the media. Scared of needles, superstitious, an unhealed cut, something that everybody in the Philippine can see is not the case.

NOT FIGHTING FLOYD WILL COST PAC POLITICALLY!

Lastly, with Presidential aspirations, Manny Pacquiao doesn’t want to go down in his native country as the man who refused or was afraid of fighting Floyd Mayweather. I can see political opponents dogging him in future campaigns. “If he is afraid of a big mouth American, how can we trust him to fight for you as an elected official?” If this fight does happen in May, it’ll be because the Filipino people are calling Manny out, and at the same time questioning his manhood. Not quite the qualities you want in an elected official!

Pedro Fernandez

Mike Tyson At 19

TYSON WAS THE LAST HEAVYWEIGHT CHILD PRODIGY

San Francisco, CA- When Mike Tyson burst upon the national boxing scene, it was as an amateur in 1984. Losing to eventual 1984 Olympic champ Henry Tillman, even though he had knocked Henry down. Tillman would eventually win the Olympic Gold. Prior, Tyson had competed in both the 1981 and 1982 Junior Olympics and won the ’81 title (201 lbs) first versus Joe Cortez and in 1982 he drilled Kelton Brown. Mike, who had never lost in the Junior Olympics, also holds the quickest KO (8 seconds) in J.O. history. In addition, the prodigy won every bout in Junior Olympic competition by KO.

D’AMATO THOUGHT MIKE WAS A “CINCH” TO BECOME CHAMPION

Cus D’Amato,Tyson’s quasi father and trainer, Cus realized that Mike’s style was better suited for the professional boxing ranks and thus turned him professional in March 1985 with a KO 1 of Hector Mercedes. Mike would go on to stop his next 18 opponents before being forced to go the ten round distance with James “Quick” Tillis. Knocking Tillis down in the fourth round, Tyson won with scores of 6-4 twice & 8-2 in Glen Falls, NY, this due to the fact that New York scored fights on the “rounds” basis and not the ten-point must system.

NEXT UP FOR TYSON WAS NEW YORKER “BLOOD” GREEN

In his next fight, Tyson would beat New Yorker Mitch “Blood” Green, again on points. A few years later, Tyson and Green would have their infamous street brawl outside of a New York City clothing store, this resulted in Tyson fracturing his hand. After recording six more KOs, the biggest name was that of Marvis Frazier, the son of the recently deceased former heavyweight champion Joe Frazier. Marvin lasted all but 30 seconds before succumbing to the fighter now drawing rave reviews and known as “Iron Mike.”

Tyson Landing On Berbick

In November 1986, Tyson met Trevor Berbick, the then WBC champion at the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel. Tyson was on the prowl in round one, before knocking Berbick down twice in round two. Giving Trevor the benefit of a doubt, referee Mills Lane allowed Berbick to get up, but he fell down twice more before the fight was called at 2:35 of the second stanza.

TYSON FACES “BONEHUGGER” SMITH IN UNIFICATION

With the WBC title in hand, “Iron Mike,” the hottest athlete, let alone fighter in the world, Tyson would next meet WBA counterpart James “Bonecrusher” Smith in March 1987. Hailing from North Carolina, Smith has the unigue distinction of being the only heavyweight titleholder to have graduated from college. But “Bonecrusher,” who was fighting Tyson outdoors at the Hilton in a huge arena erected becuase of Tyson’s incredible popularity, was scared to death of Mike.

COLLEGE GRAD SMART ENOUGH TO NOT TRADE & SLUG!

Instead of using his advantage in height and girth, Smith “hugged and clinched” Tyson throughout, thus his nickname was changed from Bonecrusher to Bonehugger. Still in his formulating stage, Tyson was very frustrated even though he won virtually every round. Two months later, Pinklon Thomas was stopped in six heats.

THE TYSON TRAIN IS STILL ON TRACK!

Tyson’s next three foes were Tony Tucker (UD 12), who hurt Tyson in the last (12th) round with an uppercut. Next up was 1984 Olympic champ Tyrell Biggs, who was beaten to the extent that you could hear Biggs reacting to the blows verbally.

HOLMES COMES OUT OF RETIREMENT FOR A BUILDING!

Former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes, in an interview on “Ring Talk,” told me that he came out of retirement to fight Tyson in January 1988 because he needed $3.5 million to build an office building in his hometown of Easton, PA. Looking old and a bit flabby, Fighting in Atlantic City, Holmes was acquitting himself well in June 1988 until Tyson dropped Holmes in the fourth round with an overhand right. With Holmes uprighting himself, Mike dropped him two more times before the fight was called at the 2:55 mark.

TYSON IS NEARING HIS PRIME

With a title defense set in Tokyo, Japan with a Don King promoted fighter in Tony Tubbs on March 21, 1988, Tubbs had he been in shape would have performed well. Instead of coming into the fight in great shape, Tubbs was suffering from the “Don King Syndrome, which meant he was overweight. Tubbs weighing 238 1/4 lbs. was no match for “Iron Mike” and fell victim to Tyson when the late iconic referee Arthur Mercante waved the fight off at 2:54 of round two.

THE “ONCE & FOR ALL” FIGHT WAS MORE LIKE “ONCE & I’LL FALL”

Fighting for the third and last time in 1988, Tyson took on the Ring Magazine champion Michael Spinks in June before a worldwide television audience and a packed to the rafters of Atlantic City’s Boardwalk Hall, then called the Atlantic City Convention Center. Before the fight, the late Butch Lewis, Spinks’ promoter, went into Tyson’s dressing room to witness Tyson being gloved. Seeing the antagonist Lewis, Tyson with his hands already wrapped, punched a hole clean through a wall. For Lewis, this was a daunting experience he did not tell Spinks about.

FIGHT WAS OVER IN THE BLINK OF AN EYE!

Looking worried, concerned, if not outright scared, Spinks and Tyson met in ring center. With Tyson being the aggressor and forcing Spinks back to the ropes, Mike landed one right hand and it was all over in 1:31. Eight months later in February 1989, Mike took out England’s Frank Bruno with a TKO 5.

TYSON MADE A LIAR OUT OF THE TRUTH!

In his last successful title defense, Tyson faces Carl “The Truth” Williams on July 21, 1989. It would take Mike two seconds longer to make a liar out of “The Truth” than it did to make a believer out of Michael Spinks. Having been present for all of Tyson’s title fights in the United States, I thought this was the best Tyson I had ever seen.

TOMORROW PART II: MIKE TYSON FROM 1990 TO THE END!

Come back tomorrow morning as we follow Mike Tyson’s professional and personal fall from grace. Remember where you are, RingTalk.com

Pedro Fernandez

Andre Berto

ANDRE BERTO SAID TO REQUIRE SURGERY

San Francisco, CA- Reports that Andre Berto (28-1, 22 KOs) was seriously injured sparring yesterday in Southern California were confirmed late Monday evening. The injury is said to be a “torn” or “ruptured” left bicep. One report said that Berto had suffered the same muscle tear previously. With pending surgery possibly as soon as this week, Berto’s February 11 rematch with Victor Ortiz (29-3, 22 KOs) has been canceled. No word as to who will replace the American born fighter of Haitian heritage on the Showtime Championship Boxing card.

STEROIDS REPORTEDLY FACILITATE BERTO INJURY

According to the world’s preminent MMA writer Dave Meltzer of the WrestlingObserver.com, his take on torn biceps taken from an article at SteroidSources.com is as follows. “The biceps will tear more frequently on steroids, but non-steroid using lifters often don’t have problems with biceps tears.”

BERTO WORKS WITH VICTOR CONTE

Victor Conte

Pedro Fernandez

San Francisco, CA- We’ve got two new “Ring Talk” radio shows, one hour on boxing, the other on MMA for your listening pleasure. Guests include Hall of Fame bantamweight champ Orlando Canizales, HBO’s Harold Lederman & Jeff Mayweather. In the MMA hour, I bring you the news and Sam “All Jam” Perez, an MMA & UFC expert. As for articles, we have the HBO preview for this coming Saturday, we ask “Is Manny Pacquiao Now Being Pimped By 3 Promoters?” and include a masterpiece drawing (cartoon) on Manny from Gabe Macintosh. The UFC on FOX TV Saturday we cover in detail and point out that Bob Arum is the “only” reason Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather are not fighting in May. Some weekend boxing results & more at RingTalk.com

Donaire KOs Fernando Montiel

Los Angeles, CA- Some of us produce offspring with great promise, some simply do not produce at all. It is a product of a natural process, chemical properties copied within our genes, divided into reproductions of identical portraits. They may look alike, but they surely don’t fight alike. Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. will share a fight card together this coming Saturday, February 4, in San Antonio, Texas.

DOORS OPEN EASIER FOR THOSE WITH FAMOUS NAMES

It’s very accommodating for any athlete to begin their career with the help of their given name from a renowned prizefighter. Will their kinship influence a clear road for certain prosperity? Probably not, yet the name could help accumulate large purses and until they are exposed in the ring. Both juniors are very good fighters, they hit hard, are fun to watch and have likeable personalities. Still, when you compare them to their dad’s, well they have the same blood, but at this point little more.

STARTING WITH CHAVEZ JR. FIRST

Chavez Jr. (40-0-1, 31 KOs) hasn’t lost a contest, with the exception of a draw back in 2005 and that was to Carlos Molina, who is now a top ten super welterweight (154 lbs). Chavez Jr. doesn’t carry the same frame as the great J.C. Superstar. He is taller at 6′ feet and bigger seeing he is a full fledged middleweight (160) that enters the ring as a cruiserweight circa 180 lbs.

CHAVEZ JR. LEARNING ON THE JOB

So while they’re not mirror images, the kid has replicated his father’s left hook to the liver and that’s not a bad thing. From what I can see, he has the right tools and will gain more exposure with fight fans than the Vazquez kid. Chavez Jr. will be facing a hard-hitting veteran in Marco Antonio Rubio (53-5, 46 KOs) in defense of his WBC title, the belt the Mexico City based sanctioning mob snatched away from the real World middleweight king Sergio Martinez in order to give Chavez false ring prominence.

VAZQUEZ JR. KNOCKED OUT IN LAST FIGHT BY SMALLER JORGE ARCE

Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. (21-1, 18 KOs), is the son of former three-time division champ, Wilfredo Vazquez Sr., who also trains him. The kid is a late-bloomer in boxing, and the lack of amateur experience may have facilitated his only loss to Jorge Arce, dropping the WBO 122 lb. trinket in the process. Five months after this Jr. came back with a KO 3 over semi-stiff Roberto Carlos Leyva.

THE REAL BOXING STAR ON THE HBO SHOW!

As the saying goes, “Big things come in small packages,” which holds true among the games best bantamweight (118) in Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire. This commodity is being marketed in hopes of the ultimate prize, another superlative Filipino icon like Manny Pacquiao. Donaire (27-1, 18 KOs) epitomizes everything a fighter should be. Donaire came to the attention of fight fans with a left hook that put Vic Darchinyan down so hard in round five that Vic denied being knocked down, let alone being concussed.

NONITO DONAIRE DUPLICATED DARCHINYAN KO LAST YEAR

Last February, Nonito (also a Jr.) gained additional glory with another single-left hook that sent Fernando Montiel into convulsions in round two. Since then, “The Filipino Flash” shutout a reluctant unbeaten (now 35-1) pug in Omar Narvaez. Because of a contract dispute with promoter Bob Arum, Donaire was on the sidelines a good percentage of 2011. But with challengers like IBF guy Abner Mares (23-0-1, 13 KOs) and Anselmo Moreno (32-1-1, 18 KOs) at 118, some may wonder if Donaire might be running away from the bantamweight division.

DONAIRE “CHERRY PICKING” LIKE MANNY PACQUIAO?

Now that he is rising in four pounds in weight to super bantamweight. Should Donaire starch the supposedly weight drained Vazquez, he is said to want no part of WBA 122 lb. counterpart unbeaten (9-0, 7 KOs) Guillermo Rigondeaux, the two-time Olympic Gold Medal winner from Cuba as he plans a move to 126 should he win Saturday. Nonito appears to be the most talented fighter on the Saturday night HBO broadcast, but is Vazquez a true barometer for “The Filipino Flash” at 122?

Dominic Verdin

Manny Pacquiao & First US Promoter Murad Muhammad

ARUM, OSCAR & KONCZ, ARE THEY MURAD MUHAMMAD TIMES THREE?

San Francisco, CA- The astute Jack Dunne put forth some comments of late that started my intellectual wheels turning. How could Manny Pacquiao end up being beholden to three promoters after his first American promoter Murad Muhammad played him like a Crack whore several years ago? Currently, Pacquiao splits his money up three ways with Bob Arum’s Top Rank, Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions and Michael Koncz of MP Promotions?

THREE PROMOTERS NOT SMART FOR A BUSBOY, LET ALONE A CONGRESSMAN

Now you can kick me in the teeth if I’m wrong, but when Manny tried to flee the Top Rank Plantation of Massa’ Bob and signed with Golden Boy, shouldn’t Arum have paid off Oscar to get Pacquiao back in the fold instead of Oscar getting a percentage of Manny Pacquiao’s earnings? Oscar making money off of Manny Pacquiao remind me a lot of Presidential candidate Mitt Romney, who made $21 million last year without working.

Pedro Fernandez

Rashad Evans Clips Phil Davis

San Francisco, CA- In November, Fox TV drew nearly 11,000,000 viewers for their initial UFC broadcast. That night, the main event of Junior Dos Santos-Cain Velasquez lasted just 1:04. To many this was a bummer. That being said, those 64 seconds were far more exciting than the three fights televised last night, this even though UFC President Dana White and matchmaker Joe Silva went all out to try and insure this show would be a winner.

EX-CHAMP EVANS WINS TO SET UP TITLE FIGHT

In the main event Rashad Evans went to 17-1-1 with a shutout unanimous five round decision Phil Davis in a lackluster match. The points (50-45) win assured Evans that he will get his head handed to him in April by UFC light heavyweight (205 lbs) champion Jon Jones. Based on their recent fights, betting on Jones looks like the best bet in fighting outside of Floyd Mayweather over Manny Pacquiao, if that fight were to ever happen. It wasn’t a tough fight for Evans, as he was just so much better than the “green” Davis (9-1) in a mismatch. Evans, a former UFC light heavyweight titleholder, was admittedly disappointed afterwards.

BATTLE OF THE “BIG MOUTHS” WAS ALL TALK

One-time All American wrestler Chael Sonnen went to 27-11-1 with a unanimous decision over Britain’s Michael Bisping (22-4) in a match that featured two of the best talkers in the world of combat sports. With little action in the fight, people watching the fight card with me were totally bored. The scores were 30-27 & 29-28 twice. Sonnen, who was suspended after a positive Steroid test in 2010, this after nearly beating UFC middleweight (185) champ Anderson Silva, with the win locked in a Silva rematch in Brazil before an expected crowd of 40,000 fans.

CURTAIN RAISING FIGHT RESULTED IN UPSET

Three time All American wrestler Chris Weidman pulled off a major upset when he outpointed Brazil’s Demian Maia (15-4) after three-five minute rounds. Seeing Maia won the 2007 Abu Dhabi Combat Club Submission World Championships, he was the favorite. But the handicappers were wrong as Weidman was able to take Maia down a couple of times which allowed him to eek out a win. The split decision scores were 29-28 twice for Weidman and 29-28 for Maia. With the win Weidman is now 8-0.

Pedro Fernandez

San Francisco, CA- The ever growing world of MMA, especially the premier company in the business, the Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC), were the subjects at hand in “Ring Talk” on MMA. The show is the second hour of host Pedro Fernandez on the Sports Byline network, Cable Radio Network, which carry the show on their affiliates as well as online. Sam “All Jam” Perez talked about the use of Steroids in MMA, as well as the upcoming shows. Click on the arrow above to listen NOW!

San Francisco, CA- The man with the most bantamweight title defenses in boxing history, ex-IBF champ Orlando Canizales was in the main spotlight on the “boxing hour” of “Ring Talk.” The Hall of Famer talked quite modestly about his 16 title defenses, his life after boxing and his having to go into the 15th round to win his World title. HBO’S Harold Lederman made a cameo as we this great man “Happy Birthday.” Jeff Mayweather, the world class trainer also appeared on the longest running fight show in history. To listen NOW click on the arrow above.

Bob "Bull S*itter" Arum

Manila, PI- “Let’s forget the May date,” those Bob Arum of Top Rank told a Philippine based reporter. So there’s the beef, and the sin. What is crystal clear is that Arum holds the key and he now bears the responsibility of not making “The Fight” between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. All other arguments to the contrary are a mirage (see bull s*it) that were made to fall during a recent interview with the “astute” promoter.

FLOYD AGREED TO 50-50 & ARUM WON’T LET PACQUIAO FIGHT HIM

A reliable source from the Mayweather camp just told this writer that Money Floyd has agreed to a 50-50 split share of the purse as he did in the past. And that being revealed, what then or who stands in the way? Bob Arum is the one giving the fans false hope, hope of always making the fight in the “future” as he has done on a number of similar occasions since late 2009, only to always cook up a different and lesser fight for Pacquiao that the people would be inclined to “buy” simply because the popular Pacquiao is a cash cow!

CALL ARUM A PRICK OR WHATEVER YOU LIKE

Thus, money, more huge money is clearly the real reason. And it has nothing to do with the controversial 50-50 split purse between Floyd and Manny. Simply Arum’s insatiable craving for profits. Poor Pacquiao, Arum “loves” him so much for he has been made a “cash cow” by the latter’s promotional outfit years. It’s about time Pacman and those who truly love him realize that. An unbelievable lust for money by a scheming promoter and his allies is the reason why, in spite of tremendous potentials, there was no Pacquiao-Mayweather in the past, no Pacquiao-Mayweather in May, and there would still be no Pacquiao-Mayweather in the future.

IN THE WORDS OF THE KING OF BULL SPIT!

“What we are trying to accomplish, assuming Mayweather is going to fight in May and Manny is going to fight in June, is that we are pressing to see if we can get a contract signed between the two fighters for November,” Arum is now bellowing. Be ensnared anew by Arum’s words if you want, but that’s mere sales talk and I don’t buy it. Sanity must prevail. If Pac-Floyd can’t take place at this time when it is so close to fruition because Pacquiao has finally agreed to random drug testing and Mayweather was greatly encouraged to get out of his shell to pursue Pacquiao upon seeing the latter’s poor performance against Juan Manuel Marquez, then the highly anticipated fight can never be made at all.

ARUM WILL MILK EVERY DROP OF MILK FROM MANNY

Unless, of course, when the time comes that the “astute” businessman Arum would see Pacquiao as a washed up fighter from whom he can’t squeeze draw milk from any longer. Seeing Pacquiao and Mayweather have already come to terms, why not now? Wow, as if his personal row with some people in Golden Boy and Mayweather Promotions has been patched up. Wow, as if he is certain about the outcome of the supposed another tune-up fight for Pacquiao and Mayweather in May and June. Wow, as if he holds tomorrow in his hands and directs destinies. And the “wowest” of them, as if he has no other “roadblocks” and “excuse cards” left up his sleeve to drop along the way.

ARUM’S HATE OF FLOYD IS REAL REASON

“Therefore there won’t be anymore (Pacquiao-Mayweather in May) nonsense which we can put behind us so we can do a huge, huge promotion.” Wow again, as though all the talk, controversies and commotion about this bout that have been going around the globe for the past three years are not more than enough to make the fight. Bob Arum gets me sick!

Reni Valenzuela

UFC Czar Dana White

San Francisco, CA- When Fox TV drew nearly 11,000,000 viewers in November for the Junior Dos Santos-Cain Velasquez, the broadcast was a bit of a letdown seeing the fight lasted 64 seconds as Santos pounded Cain like salt to become UFC heavyweight (over 205 lbs) champion. Tonight, the main event pits light heavyweights Rashad Evans (16-1-1) vs. Phil Davis (9-0) in a match that was supposed to take place last year but Davis was hurt. A former UFC light heavyweight champion, I anticipate a tough fight with Evans prevailing. Should this occur, Evans is in line for light heavyweight champ Jon Jones, who will lick him like a standup.

BATTLE OF THE “BIG MOUTHS” IN SEMI-MAIN

Two bad boys with big mouths go at it tonight as American Chael Sonnen (26-11-1) takes on Britain’s Michael Bisping (22-3) in the battle of two of the best promo guys in MMA. Sonnen was a couple of minutes short of a monumental upset of UFC middleweight (185) champ Anderson Silva, only to have Silva catch him with a fight ending choke hold. Initially Chael was supposed to meet Mark Munoz, but MM was injured in training. Although Sonnen’s record isn’t that great, Bisping has been somewhat of a let down to me. That being said, Chael talks a better game and based on his almost beating Silva, he should be the slight favorite. If Sonnen wins a rematch with Silva before 40,000 fans is in the cards for this summer.

THIRD TELEVISED CLASH ALSO A MIDDLEWEIGHT AFFAIR

Brazil’s Demian Maia (15-3) will engage former All American (thrice) wrestler Chris Weidman (7-0) in the television curtainraiser. Maia is no slouch folks. He won the 2007 Abu Dhabi Combat Club Submission World Championships. Interesting matchup has Weidman stepping up in class. In addition, Maia owns a submission win over the aforeentioned Chael Sonnen. That being said, this is a toss up with the lean towards Maia. UFC President Dana White is banking on this second Fox being a success, thus the three competitive televised fights.

Pedro Fernandez

ESPN 2 BOXING & THE TEDDY ATLAS SHOW ONLY TELEVISED FISTICUFFS!

Temecula, CA- Ruslan Provodnikov, (140 lbs), Beryozovo, Russia TKO 6 David Torres, (137), Othello, WA. Provodnikov (21-1, 14 KOs) proved to be too powerful for the limited Torres (21-3, 13 KOs) by knocking him down three times once in the first and twice in the sixth. Time was 2:53.

KOREAN WINS THE SEMI-MAIN EVENT

Ji Hoon Kim, (134.5), Goyang City, South Korea UD 10 Yakubu Amidu, (132), Los Angeles, CA. Kim (23-7, 18 KOs) out hustled Amidu (20-4-1, 18 KOs) over ten entertaining rounds.  No knockdowns although Amidu was cut over his eye midway through the fight.  Scores were 96-94, 98-92, and 97-93.

Edwin “Ace” Ayala

Mike Tyson

Liberty, NC- Boxing or fighting is a sport, and for some, a profession. For the majority of those for whom boxing is a profession the objective is to provide substance for their families. To that end, I couldn’t care less if Manny Pacqiuao and Floyd Mayweather ever fight one another. The Pacqiuao-Mayweather circus, in fact, is a microcosm of the ills that plaque boxing today, and that is a lack of true tough guys. While Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, Rocky Marciano, et.al., were certainly always interested in good paydays, they also had that something special that is largely missing from today’s crop of champions. That missing ingredient is mental toughness.

“IRON MIKE” WAS TURNED INTO ALUMINUM?

We saw an example of this with the meltdown of Mike Tyson. There was nothing wrong physically, but the lack of mental toughness caused a psychological short circuit that led to unreached potential in his career. On the other hand it was mental toughness that propelled Mickey Ward beyond his physical capabilities, the idea of “quit” wasn’t hardwired into his system, and Ward is still admired today.

GUYS & GALS FIGHT ON ESPN 2 CARDS FOR LESS THAN $300 A FIGHT

I am not sure of what the answer is. All I know is on the “Ham & Egg” circuit, where no one is turning down multi-million dollar paydays because of reported disagreements over a 50-50 split, men are still fighting their hearts out for a mere pittance (sometimes $275 to fight on ESPN 2) of what Mr.’s Pacqiuao and Mayweather are refusing, real, tough, men, with families to feed, and those men we ought to support.

Professor Chuck Marbry

Floyd "Greed" Mayweather

San Francisco, CA- Although Manny Pacquiao stated he would take less money that Floyd Mayweather for a May 5 bout, the Filipino icon has changed his mind and now wants a 50-50 split! What most likely occurred was his promoter Bob Arum put him in check, this after Pacquiao told Philippine television that he would. Look, Arum has been humiliated by Mayweather. First he steals the “treasured” May 5 date by renting the MGM Grand Garden Arena, the biggest hotel venue in Las Vegas, something Arum has almost always had in his pocket.

“LITTLE FLOYD” HAS OUTFOXED “BIG BOB”

Then Floyd, feeling that he is the boss, something that Arum can’t stomach because Floyd “out smarted” him, implies that if Arum won’t bring Manny Pacquiao to the dance May 5, he’ll just line up another opponent like Saul Alvarez, Miguel Cotto or Robert Guerrero. Having known Arum for some 30 years now, his blood pressure must be off the charts seeing Floyd has outmaneuvered him by locking up the MGM Grand, as well as the Pay Per View for that date.

TWO BOXING PPV EVENTS ON MAY 5 NOT LIKELY

Arum does have one option and that being he could run Pacquiao-Juan Manuel Marquez 4 in Las Vegas at the Thomas & Mack Arena on the University of Las Vegas campus. Seeing the MGM Grand and the smaller Mandalay Bay Hotelare owned by the same people, I don’t think venue is an option of Arum. Although running two fight cards on PPV on the same night would be like PPV suicide, I doubt if that is going to occur. That being said, I still wouldn’t put it past either of these ego maniacs.

BACK TO THE MAYWEATHER “GREED” FACTOR

Even though one could admire Floyd for putting Arum’s balls in a vice and turning the crank to tighten the grip, you also have to realize that even with a 50-50 split with Manny Pacquiao, Floyd will still make almost “twice” the money Pacquiao would derive from the fight. That’s because Mayweather has advisers/employees like Al Hayman, who is said to take only 10% fro his fighters. Leonard Ellerbe, I couldn’t imagine him getting more than 5%, couple that with training expenses and the like and maybe Floyd could spend 20% of his gross earnings.

FLOYD “MONEY” MAYWEATHER

It is estimmated that the undefeated Mayweather took home about $35 to $40 million from his last fight with Victor Ortiz. Although you read reports that Manny made $25 million for the fourth Juan Manuel Marquez bout, you need to realize that Pacquiao has what some say is an “ownerous” deal with Bob Arum that some say give Arum an almost 50-50 split with the Pacman. If you throw in trainer Freddie Roach’s reported 10% in, as well as the huge chunk that Pacquiao’s Philippine advisor Michael Koncz gets, and one can believe the rumors that Pacquiao has been getting “front money” from Arum for recent fights.

FLOYD COULD TAKE 40% & MAKE MORE THAN PACQUIAO

That being fact, Pacquiao is probably headed for a June 9 date at the Thomas & Mack Arena, with a host of opponents NOT named Mayweather being discussed. Although I can blame both sides for jerking off boxing fans in general, Mayweather will make far more money than Pacquiao at 50-50. So I ask Floyd, why not take the easier fight with Pacquiao, rather than face bigger guys like Miguel Cotto or Saul Alvarez. You see Floyd, sometimes “common sense means more dollars and cents!”

Pedro Fernandez

"Honest" Bob Arum

San Francisco, CA- Boxing promoter Bob Arum is a Harvard graduate. That being said, as smart as Arum is the man has admitted to a number of Felonies in a US Dept. of Justice affidavit he signed in the mid 1990s. This involved the bribing of then IBF President Bob Lee Sr., and how he funneled the money internationally through boxing manager/agent Stan Hoffman (around $150,000) in order for then heavyweight champion George Foreman to fight the “unrated” Axel Schultz, who by the way, probably deserved to have his hand raised when the two did meet in Las Vegas in 1995.

“YESTERDAY I WAS LYING, BUT TODAY I’M TELLING THE TRUTH”

The above os yet another famous quote that emanated fro the lips of Bob Arum, who as most of you know promotes Filipino icon Manny Pacquiao. For better than two years now, Arum has come up with a number of excuses (see bull shit) as to why Manny would not fight Floyd Mayweather. I would publish his words, but redundancy is tiring. Still, nobody in the “real” boxing media has had the stones to call Arum out on it. Not his lackey Dan Rafael of ESPN.com, who used to sleep overnight on couches (that’s plural because of Rafael’s abundant girth) in the Top Rank office while writing for USA Today, nobody has the guts to call Arum what radio talk show host Stephanie Miller bellows, “a lying sack of crap.”

MAYWEATHER IS A JERK TO SAY THE LEAST

Floyd Mayweather

Now if you thought I was going to dump all over Arum sans taking a shot at Floyd Mayweather Jr., you were wrong. This spoiled, pampered millionaire, although brilliant in his business moves, has whipped on women (again, plural), hit a man over the head with a champagne bottle, kicked a downed man in a Michigan pool hall, I could probably go on (and on) but I think I’ve made my point in that I wouldn’t want him dating my daughter. With mood swings that can go from the south pole to the north pole in the space of a single conversation, one never knows what Floyd is going to say or do next.

PACQUIAO LOOKS TO BE LESS THAN A MAN

Manny Pacquiao

A fortnight ago, Manny Pacquiao, the man who supposedly employs the aforementioned Top Rank promoter Bob Arum, said that he would adhere to “random” drug testing.” If your memory is not watered down by Mr. Arum’s-Jim Jones-like Kool Aid, you should recall that it was Pacquiao’s refusal of such testing that thwarted the Pacquiao-Mayweather match that was all but signed for March 2010. Manny also told the Filipino press that he would, “Take less money” than Floyd in order to make the match. So why then are the two not fighting on May 5? Why, because to again quote Stephanie Miller, all three, Bob, Manny and Floyd are, “lying sack(s) of crap.”

Pedro Fernandez

San Francisco, CA- Everytime Manny Pacquiao shows his face in public, it’s a different face. First he wouldn’t fight Floyd Mayweather because he refused to take the tests, he was scared of needles, then he was superstitious. Last week, he calls Floyd Mayweather a punk and then Bob Arum says his cut won’t be ready in four months. Floyd is a jerk, but he is by far the better of the two. Manny’s on the downslide, so is Floyd, but Floyd beats him easy. Betting on Floyd will be like stealing money!

AN ALI STORY NOBODY ELSE COULD WRITE!

If you weren’t there, and no writer except myself was, you don’t know how big a heart Muhammad Ali has! Today, I bring you to 1994 and China with Ali. As for Ali, we did a one hour radio special on him and the link is below. We are now doing one hour of boxing on Saturday at 11 AM PT & at 12 PM we do an hour of MMA. This past week we had the beautiful MMA fighter turned Hollywood star Gina Carano, who is starring in the just released movie Haywire which has dome great actors and excellent, realistic fight scenes. All of this is exclusively here at RingTalk.com

Ali & Pedro

WHY ALI IS “THE GREATEST”

San Francisco, CA- Having read a plethora of stories about Muhammad Ali this past week, I was taken aback for the most part seeing few writers that are scribbling today really knew the man. Seriously, most of the so-called scribes of 2012 are just are not old enough to recall the Sonny Liston fights, the refusal to enter the Military Draft in 1966, or the “Fight of The Century” with Joe Frazier. Today, it’s a short story on Ali, myself, and a trip to a Chinese orphanage in 1994.

ON THE ROAD IN MACAO AT 10 AM!

Our breakfast was prepared by our own American chef, this after Ali lost 12 and I shed 10 lbs. during our one week trip to Beijing, the capital of the Peoples Republic of China some 18 months prior in 1993. The highlight of our first trip to China, as far as cuisine is concerned, was a trip to McDonalds. At one function, I was holding Ali’s plate as we were walking the “buffet” line at the Presidential Hotel when I came upon a man serving soup. Ali asked me what kind of soup it was, I replied, “meatballs.”

A NARLY “SURPRISE” ITEM ON THE MENU

To be sure, I asked the server why kind of meatballs they were as he was serving what was to be the first of two bowls. When I was told it was “pigeon heads” and not meatballs, the Ali’s, Muhammad, his lovely wife Lonnie and I, we all almost heaved!

MACAO WASN’T CHINA, BUT A PORTUGUESE COLONY AT THE TIME

After devouring eggs and the like cooked to our preference, we thanked the chef at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel and prepared for a day of meeting VIPs and hotshot politicos. Having been drinking at a party the night before, I was hungover as I drank both my shots and Ali’s, because as a devout Muslim, Ali didn’t drink. In total, I think I did about 12 shots of the world’s finest cognac. With headache in tow, we jumped in the van that would take our party of 10-12 people around Macao, then leased to Portugal, which like Hong Kong to the United Kingdom, was returned to China circa 1999.

THE MEDIA IS FOLLOWING US AROUND TOWN

Our first stop upon leaving the five-star hotel was a meeting with the Governor, then the Mayor, Chinese millionaires, by noon Ali had had enough. “Tell him (the driver) to take us to a hospital for the poor,” said Ali who was tired of VIPs, politicians and yet our itinerary still had four more scheduled stops for picture taking sessions with people that Ali had little desire to pose with. When I explained to the driver that we were tossing our schedule out the window, he then took us to an orphanage run by a Catholic Nun.

ONE OF THE MOST SHOCKING THINGS I’VE EVER SEEN

When we entered the orphanage, I was shocked! The sweet Nun and her small staff were “star struck” that Ali and his people were visiting her and the 30 kids she looked after. Ranging from three months to ten years of age, these were not your average kids. Some of the children were missing arms, legs, had deformed craniums, were retarded, dwarfed, you name it, but anyway you looked at it, this was a true eye opening experience. Kids with no legs were crawling across the floor of the playroom, others, who were rarely if ever visited, I asked the Sister how did she end up with so many handicapped children?

SHE FOUND THEM ABANDONED IN THE STREETS

The cruel custom of the Chinese people in Macao was that if you had a deformed or retarded child, you cast them away like you would trash, only the kids weren’t put in cans, they were thrown in the street. Stunned, I for once was speechless. Having brought some candy with us, Ali, in a Santa Claus-like mode, along with staff was distributing candy to the kids which activated my tear ducts. While the kids were happy as Ali held almost every child in his arms, I was a mess as I had never seen anything quite like this before.

ALI DEMANDED (ASKED) FOR CASH FOR THE KIDS

Ali walked over to me and asked me how much money I had on me? With four pictures of Benjamin Franklin (US $100 bills) and a couple of Andrew Jackson, I gave Ali the $400. The champ then moved to the event promoter, who is such a sleaze and a crook, a convicted Felon who brought me to Dubai last year and drained my Debit card for better than $5,000, and extracted $500 from him. The last person Ali “hit up” for cash was his wife Lonnie and his personal photographer Howard Bingham.

BEING BROKE WITH ALI GREATER THAN HAVING CASH WITH ANYONE ELSE!

In total, Ali had gathered up $1,400 in US greenbacks. With this fat wad of cash in hand, Ali folded it in half and slipped it to the Nun in such a manner that most people in the room did not see what was transpiring. The Nun was ecstatic and told me that the money was enough to feed the children and staff for a year or more. A few minutes later, we all boarded the van as the teary eyed Nun waved goodbye to us while holding a child with no legs.

THE VAN WAS SILENT AND I WAS TRYING NOT TO CRY

Sitting next to me, Ali realized I was fighting back tears as we were in transit back to the hotel. In a gesture that clearly illustrated why Ali is “The Greatest,” he says to me. “Don’t be sad. We gave them food for a year. Be happy!” What a man of unequaled passion and kindness. With each word he was speaking, you could see Ali was laboring to speak. “We did good, you did good. Be happy” he said. “You can’t save everybody, (but) we helped the kids.”

Pedro Fernandez

Mayweather-Pacquiao: Has Manny Become "Manila Fried Chicken?"

Los Angeles, CA- There’s one country where one particular prizefighter can do it all. He’s so accepted and loved by every man, woman and child that when he fights, the crime rate is non-existent. His many occupations include singing, acting, a Congressional seat, many endorsement deals, and did I fail to mention he’s a multi-division boxing champion? His name is Manny Pacquiao, who is 54-3 with 38 KOs. Oh, and if you didn’t know it already, he’s not fighting Floyd Mayweather Jr. (42-0, 26 KOs) anytime soon, especially after Juan Manuel Marquez exposed Pacman’s limitations in Noveber 2012.

MANNY HAD FLOYD IN 2010 & WOULDN’T TAKE THE TESTS!

In 2010, Manny balked at random Steroid testing and the March 10 date went to to Pacquiao and Joshua Clottey, this after Floyd agreed to Manny’s demands that he pay millions of dollars if he could not make 147 lbs. on the scale. It’s a damn shame with all the talk and so-called negotiations between the two fighters that they simply cannot come to terms on the richest fight in the sport’s history.

IT’S 2012 & WHO’S TO BLAME?

We can play the blame game and point the finger as to who is stopping the biggest, richest most lucrative fight in the world, but why should we? Back in late 2009, many in the boxing world were pushing hard for the fight. Talks fizzled, and almost 2 ½ years later, there is little hope that this mega-bout will ever materialize. Initially, Floyd demanded random blood tests for Steroids with no cut off dates, something Pacquiao refused then, but has now told his peeps in the Philippines he is willing to do so.

THERE ARE DIFFERING OPINIONS HERE!

Manny rightfully (in my mind, and I might be in the minority here) disagreed and offered a seven day cut off for blood testing, this even though the drugs in question can escape detection in five days. Floyd’s demands were considered by some outrageous at the time. But as we fast forward into 2012, now it’s Manny and promoter Bob Arum that seem to merit the moniker, Manila Fried Chicken and the Filipino people, after seeing the Marquez fight, they realize why.

ARUM ONCE SAID: “I WAS LYING YESTERDAY, BUT TODAY I’M TELLING THE TRUTH”

Bob "No Confidence" Arum

I’m not going to bother with all the false promises, but here’s a humorous one. It was possible that Floyd would be losing his May 5, 2012 date (due to jail sentencing) at the MGM Grand . Up jumps Mr. Arum who says he had attained a brilliant solution to fill the void. Arum announced he would provide a worthy substitute for Pac to fight. Cash talks in Vegas and so did Mayweather’s lawyers, thus Floyd was given a delayed extension in order to fulfill the MGM Grand obligation.

FELONIOUS ARUM IS EITHER FRIGHTENED OR FULL OF SHIT

Now this is where it gets funnier. Mr. Arum, an admitted (but unindicted) Felon, once he finds out Floyd is clear for May 5, suddenly withdraws any claims that Manny would be fit and ready to engage in May with Mayweather or anyone else. Simply put, the cut Manny had sustained in his last outing against the people’s champion, Juan Manuel Marquez, would not heal in time for the super-fight boxing fans have been drooling over. Who is this guy trying to bullshit by telling us Manny’s cut from November has not yet healed?

Miguel Cotto

Ironically, WBA 154 lb. champ Miguel Cotto (37-2, 30 KOs) is in talks with both Pacquiao and Mayweather. In my mind, Cotto, who fought Pac at an unatural catch weight of 145, is destined for disaster should he face either man. I personally am a big Cotto fan, but I just don’t see him fairing well against Mayweather or Pacquiao, unless he fights Pac at 154. In closing, the chances of this major attraction ever coming to fruition between Mayweather and Pacquiao are slim and none, and like Don King used to say, “Slim just left town.” Lastly, if you’re into finger pointing, you can direct the middle one at Bob Arum primarily, and Manny Pacquiao as well for either not having the balls to face Mayweather, or to force prommoter Arum to make the fight.

Dominic Verdin

San Francisco, CA- With the exception of a few, I was fortunate enough to spend a few weeks with Muhammad Ali. Although he has his critics, Ali, in my mind displayed a level of kindness unlike no other human being. With clips from Ali, Howard Cosell, some fight clips, and my own interactions with “The Greatest,” this was one of the most emotional radio shows I’ve put forth in 26+ years of radio. Writer Kevin Perry also weighed in on Ali.

NBC SPORTS NETWORK DEBUT

Philadelphia, PA- Bryant Jennings, (220 lbs), Philadelphia, PA UD 10 Maurice Byarm, (244.5), Washington, DC. Jennings (11-0, 5 KOs) was the busier fighter in the late rounds against Byarm (13-1-1, 9 KOs) in this good action heavyweight fight.  Scores were 97-93 and 96-94 twice.

Gabriel Rosado, (153.5), Philadelphia, PA TKO 5 Jesus Soto Karass, (154), Los Angeles, CA. Rosado (19-5, 11 KOs) to the shock of many except himself scored an easy one-sided drubbing of Karass (24-8-3, 16 KOs).  Rosado attacked from the start until the finish at 2:06 of the fifth.

Friday, January 20

CUBA’S GUILLERMO RIGONDEAUX IMPRESSIVE ON SHOWBOX CARD

Las Vegas, NV- Guillermo Rigondeaux, (120.5), Miami, FL KO 6 Rico Ramos, (122), Pico Rivera, CA. (WBA 122 lb. title)
Though inexperienced with under ten fights Rigondeaux (9-0, 7 KOs) dominates Ramos (20-1, 11 KOs).  Knocking him out at 1:29 of the fifth with a single body shot.

Joel Diaz Jr., (129), Palmdale, CA TKO 7 Guy Robb, (128.5), Sacramento, CA. Diaz (7-0, 6 KOs) against Robb (7-1, 5 KOs) threw defense out the window as both tasted the canvas.  With Diaz stunning Robb in the seventh causing what looked to be an early stoppage, although Robb offered no complaints.  Time was 2:20.

Edwin “Ace” Ayala

San Francisco, CA- Gina Carano, the star of the just released movie and box office smash “Haywire” was front and center in our second hour of “Ring Talk” on the Sports Byline Broadcast Network. In case you didn’t know, the first hour that starts live each Saturday at 11 AM PT, is all about boxing. The second hour, which starts at 12 PM PT is dedicated to the world of MMA. In addition to Gina, Dave Meltzer, the premier writer in MMA joined host Pedro Fernandez, as did writer and Jui Jitsu expert Matt “All Meat” Grizzle.

Muhammad Ali

San Francisco, CA- When “Ring Talk” hits the radio airwaves this Saturday at 11 AM PT, the first hour will be all about Muhammad Ali, who turned 70 this week. In the words of a young Cassius Clay we listen as he evolves into Muhammad Ali. One of the more emotional clips will be with iconic sports announcer Howard Cosell at Ali’s 50th birthday. Truly a touching piece. From the early days, until Ali’s ability to speak diminish.

HOUR #2 GINA CARANO, “HAYWIRE” THE MOVIE & DAVE MELTZER

Our second hour on the Sports Byline Broadcast Network, the Cable Radio Network and online at www.SportsByline.com will be all about MMA with star Gina Carano starring in her first movie “Haywire” with Michael Douglas. One of the great writers of our time, Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the world’s premier MMA expert Dave Meltzer.

COME LISTEN & YOU’LL BE AMAZED

Tune in at 11 AM PT Saturday morning and see why that after 26 years, “Ring Talk is often imitated, but never duplicated.” Click Saturday @ 11 AM PT & LISTEN TO "RING TALK"

Joe Louis' Finale With Rocky Marciano

Liberty, NC– I take the Declaration of Independence very seriously, and I especially hold dear the second sentence which states: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.”

DOES LESS GOVERNMENT APPLY WHEN IT COMES TO FIGHTERS?

The Professor believes that “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness” gives one the right to be “stupid” if they so choose. For example, I believe it is a good idea to wear seat belts when driving, but I do not think it is the Federal or State Government officials have a place to tell me I have to do so (I know that many disagree, and that’s OK, that’s what makes the world go round). I’m just big on individual rights and freedoms.

EUROPEAN CHAMP MAKES BERNARD YOUNG AT 46

We have had discussions about mandatory retirement ages for professional boxing for years. Yet, we have Steve Ward from the United Kingdom fighting back on March 19, 2011, won the European Boxing Federation cruiserweight (200 lbs) title at the age 54. The Guinness Book of World Records at that 2011 date to be the “Oldest Active Boxer in the World.”

PROFESSOR NEARLY ALL ALONE ON THE “OLD GUYS”

Of course we have heard no retirement plans from Bernard Hopkins, who will be 47 this year, or from Roy Jones who will 43, nor from soon to be 49 year old Evander Holyfield. Now, I still believe that if any fighter can pass the physical, then they should be allowed to fight. However, I recently ran across something that made a lot of sense to me about when its time to hang up the gloves.

REMEMBER HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMP JAMES J. BRADDOCK?

After losing the World heavyweight championship to Joe Louis, James J. Braddock had one more fight. He won a ten round decision against Tommy Farr in New York City on January 21, 1938. Ten days later, Braddock retired. In his retirement speech, written up in a major sports periodical dubbed, “Blue Ribbon Sports,” James J. used the following metaphor of home and family to explain his reasoning for retirement:

POIGNANT WORDS FROM BRADDOCK HIMSELF

When a man builds a house, he stops when the house is finished, and it is, finished only when he cannot improve on it anymore. This house I have built is not the greatest that any boxer has built, but it is finished. There is nothing that I could do to improve it.”

EVERY COMPETITOR SHOULD FOLLOW THE BRADDOCK PHILOSOPHY

Deep and insightful verbiage from one of the greatest underdogs the world of pugilism has ever seen, words that would do well for any practitioner of the manly art of self defense to pay heed to.

Professor Chuck Marbry

"Haywire" Star Gina Carano

San Francisco, CA- “Ring Talk,” the longest running fight show in history has expanded to two hours begining Saturday at 11:05 AM PT on the Sports Byline Broadcast Network and the Cable Radio Network. My guests will include Muhammad Ali, to whom we will dedicate hour number one to.

GINA CARANO NOT THE ONLY STAR OF “HAYWIRE”

On Friday, the movie “Haywire” opens at theaters across the country. The movie with some epic fight scenes has numerous big stars including Michael Douglas, Antonio Banderas and MMA female flagbearer Gina Carano. The once beaten fighter will talk about the movie in depth, as well as Cyborg Santos, the only person to have beaten Gina, was suspended by the California Athletic Commission for steroids. I’m going to ask Gina whether or not she thinks steroids played a role in her loss to Santos, a woman who has mmanly features t say the least. Listen online Click to hear "Ring Talk" Live! Tune in as we cover boxing and MMA like no other show!

Rico Ramos (left)

New York, NY- It’s the calm before the massive storm of high profile marquee fights that will commence the first week of February and span (week after week) throughout the entire month with intriguing match ups. For more insight on the fistic madness that will soon transpire, stay tuned! In the meantime, there are some cable outlets dealing out a few “filler” cards of interest. Let’s take a quick look.

SHOBOX JOINT LOOKS TO SMOKE

Now in it’s 11th year, Showtime‘s highly regarded franchise Shobox returns with an appealing main event when electrifying unbeaten WBA super bantamweight (122) belt holder Rico Ramos (20-0, 11 KOs) engages decorated amateur and highly adored heavy handed professional Guillermo Rigondeaux (8-0, 6 KOs) in a “somebody’s o has gotta go” type affair scheduled for 12 rounds of pound at Broadwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Friday at 11 PM ET on Showtime.

NBC SPORTS TO MAKE ITS RETURN TO THE RING

For the first time in nearly a decade, the suits at “NBC” bring live boxing to masses. When originally announced, NBC’s inaugural show looked great on paper, however due to injuries forcing heavyweight Eddie Chambers to withdraw from his bout against come backing former WBO strap carrier Siarhei Liakhovich, the fight line up on this evening took a backward step. While the billing remains somewhat solid overall, it fails to separate itself from the average boxing entertainment “free” T.V. offers (welcome back to the “theater of the unexpected” that is boxing NBC). Albeit an obvious disappointment to many, the “show must go on”. In the main event, undefeated heavyweights Bryant Jennings (11-0, 5 KOs) and Maurice Byarm (13-0-1, 9 KOs) throw hands over 10 or less rounds. Coverage from the Asylum Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, featuring fierce jr. middleweight (154) competitors Gabriel Rosado (18-5, 19 KOs) and Jesus Soto-Karasso (24-6-3, 16 KOs) in a slated 10 round affair begins on Saturday at 9 PM ET on NBC Sports Network.

John Signorella

Professor Chuck Marbry

Liberty, NC- Many fight fans believe that the gloved era of fisticuffs began when John L. Sullivan was knocked out in the 21st round by “Gentleman Jim” Corbett in New Orleans on September 7, 1892, as that heavyweight championship bout was the first held under the then fairly new Marquess of Queensberry (gloved) rules. However, what many do not know is that John L. fought with gloves as early as 1779, and in fact only fought under the London Prize Ring (bare knuckle) rules three times his whole career against Paddy Ryan 1886, against Charley Mitchel in 1888 and against Jake Kilrain in 1889. It is actually the Kilrain bout in 1889 that is the real turning point from the London Prize Ring rules to the Marquess of Queensberry rules, not the Corbett bout.

HISTORY OF THE LONDON PRIZE RULES & TITLE FIGHTS

Back in 1891 an athletic club in London began to promote professional gloved boxing matches, and this club, the national Sporting Club as it was called, came up with nine additional rules to go along with the Queensberry rules. These additional rules clarified the roles of the referee and judges, as well giving a scoring system for a bout to declare a winner if there were no knockouts. Then in 1919 the British Government gave rise to the British Boxing Board of Control (B.B.B.C.) to oversee the sanctioning and legalities of professional boxing in Britain.

THE BIRTH OF THE CHAMPIONSHIP BELT

By 1907, Hugh Cecil Lowther, who was the fifth Earl of Lonsdale began awarding championship belts to those who were recognized as such by the National Sporting Club. When the Club dis-banned in 1929, the B.B.B.C.continued to recognize British champions and award Lonsdale belts, with the caveat being a fighter had to win three title fights in the same weight division to receive a belt (not a bad idea).

THE POLICE GAZETTE WAS “THE” PERIODICAL

By the early 1900′s in America, the periodical “The Police Gazette” became the recognized authority for ranking fighters and naming champions. Around 1920, a sanctioning body, the National Boxing Association began to sanction title fights, and “The Ring” magazine was founded and began awarding championship belts. In 1962 the National Boxing Association became the World Boxing Association. In 1963, the World Boxing Council was formed. Seeing that the pie was not yet divided enough, in 1983 another “world” body, the International Boxing Federation was formed and soon thereafter the World Boxing Organization. By the time 2011 drew to a close you could add to the mix of world sanctioning bodies top four a conservative 13 sanctioning bodies just here in the States. Why? You know why! One of the lesser known sanctioning bodies posts their sanctioning fees for a card with total purses of up to $100 thousand dollars at a MINIMUM of $17,850.00, plus travel and lodging for commission officials. Almost $18,000.00 to put your name and stamp of approval on a fight card. Hmmm…I think I’m ready to start my own sanctioning body, the Professors Professional Boxing Association. Has a nice ring to it! T.P.P.B.A.

Professor Chuck Marbry

Are Maywether & Marquez #1 & 2?

12: Roberto “The Ghost” Guerrero (29-1-1, 18 KOs) WBA “interim” lightweight (135 lb) champ. For starters he’s claimed titles in three weight classes, 126, 130 & 135. “The Ghost” doesn’t have the biggest names on his resume, partially because one individual in particular Juan Manuel Marquez has ducked him (Guerrero is the WBA “interim” champ at 135) Still this highly esteemed graduate in the arts of exchanging leather is a bona-fide ‘pound-for-pounder.’ Guerrero, 28, born in and fighting out of Gilroy, California, close to 5’10, has had a favorable outcome in rising in weight and is seemingly on a direct course to perform at light welterweight (140) and welterweight (147). Unless he fights Floyd Mayweather in May at 147, Guerrero is likely to stay between 135-140 and be a force to be reckoned with. For now, he is on the sidelines. He has recovered from shoulder surgery and is looking for that “big fight.”

11: Miguel Cotto (37-2 30KOs) light middleweight/154 lbs. With three straight wins by knockout, this after his crushing catch-weight defeat at the hands of Manny Pacquiao, Cotto is back! Now some may not agree with this ranking, but Cotto erased one official loss after defeating cheater Antonio Margarito late in 2012. Couple that with the cloud of suspiscion that Pacman might have been taking more than vitamins, some might see him as unbeaten. Cotto, is a well-rounded fighter with true self-belief in his arsenal and mental makeup. Some think his ascending from winning titles at 140 & 147, that he’s lost a few steps, but truth be told, Miguel can still crack with the best. There are plenty of “lucrative attractions” for the three division champ. Promoter Bob Arum has mentioned the likes of Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., a return match with the aforementioned Pacman, Sergio Martinez who is too big, and possibly Saul Alvarez. At this point of time, it’s safe to say we haven’t seen the last of Miguel’s arsenal. And that’s a good thing!

10: Timothy Bradley (28-0 12 KOs) light welterweight/140 lbs. The “Desert Storm” soldier’s last nine bouts have featured six former champions and one current titleholder in Lamont Peterson, Peterson recently defeated Amir Khan. Bradley, fighting out of Southern California, Tim recently signed with Top Rank in hopes of advancing to a possible bout with Pacquiao. Bradley doesn’t possess knockout power, nor is he the most exhilarating fighter on the planet. Yet, Bradley has a desirable quality that’s equipped with becoming the most outstanding man at 140. Bradley isn’t in a position to acquire the big money fights he so desperately craves. Bradley, simply put, doesn’t carry any name value or create exciting fights. He does however continue to win.

9: Vitali Klitschko (43-2, 40 KOs) heavyweight/over 200 lbs. Vitali, was considered finished in 2004 when he announced his retirement. He came back in 2008 and won his first fight in four years. Annexing the WBC heavyweight title in the process against durable (but seemingly overweight) Samuel Peter. Vitali is a big specimen at 6’7 with heavy hands and a granite chin. For a giant, he has good balance, with a penetrating jab that is the best in his division. Vitali, who just turned 40 a little over six months ago is still performing at an elite level. With injuries plaguing the elder Klitschko over time, there’s not much to prove, or to lose. I think we may see the end soon simply because he has little left to prove

8: Bernard Hopkins (52-5 32KOs) Light heavyweight Champion 175/ While the majority of my fellow writers think he’s undeserving, the 46+ year old man gets my vote. Some may say he’s shown his age in his last outing against Chad Dawson that was ruled a “No Contest.” Hopkins refusal to submit to Father-time is unheard of in this business. Yet this old bag of bones just rewrote history with a little help from “limited” Jean Pascal, allowing the oldest man to ever win a major title at 46. Will “The Executioner’s” advanced age is sure to catch up with him against a younger foe, but when and whom is a question. Should he face Dawson again, something he probably doesn’t want to do, Bernard probably gets licked. Should he drop to 168, Hopkins loses possibly to Lucian Bute and gets bedazzled via shutout against Andre Ward.

7: Wladimir Klitschko (56-3, 49 KOs) IBF heavyweight champion. The 6’6 Ukrainian is so dominant with his one–two counters set up by a lethal jab. At times, he appears mechanical, lacks liveliness and is the minds of any is far too defensive minded. He does however, exhibit mental quickness when physical damage is administrated onto his foe. His chin is “convicted,” not suspect seeing he’s been KO’d in all three of his losses. Unbeaten since his loss to Lamon Brewster back in 2004 (TKO 5). From that point forward, he has won 14 in a row with 9 stops to his credit. His desire to face ex-cruiserweight (200) champ Jean Marc Mormeck on March, 3, 2012 on paper appears to be a fistic farce. Simply put, Wlad couldn’t carry his older brother’s jock strap.

6: Andre Ward (25-0, 13 KOs) World super middleweight (168) champion. Ward, a 2004 Olympic champ had a slow start in the pros and didn’t get much attention as some past Olympians. The “Super Six” tourney is where it all began to develop for Ward and his performances placed him among the best. In the process, Andre defeated every competitor with ring superiority and intelligence. Ward shows relaxation, yet adds so much pressure you see the discomfort in his opponents. Note signature wins over the likes of Mikkel Kessler, Allen Green, Sakio Bika, Arthur Abraham and the recent Carl Froch. All I can say is WOW! Ward has spoken of taking a showcase fight before tackling bigger names and that’s fine. He’s been engaging in wars with the 168 lb. elite for the last the two years. After that, Lucian Bute, Ismayl Sillakh may be in his future.

5: Juan Manuel Marquez (53-6-1, 39 KOs) WBA lightweight hampion/135 lbs. “Dinamita” could have possibly won every fight in his career with the exception on lone loss against the brilliant Floyd Mayweather. You have to admire the accurate counterpunching and his prowess in the ring is a thing of beauty. Marquez has had a hall of fame career, but what about his blatant ducking of Robert Guerrero? We all know what happened to JMM in his last bout with Pacquiao and most observers didn’t agree with the Las Vegas judges. Will there be a fourth? If so, they will have to twist both the arms of Pac and promoter Arum. He said he wants Pac for a fourth meeting and will most likely will vacate the title at 135 and fight at 140. A few potential name foes include Brandon Rios, Amir Khan, Lamont Peterson, Erik Morales, Timothy Bradley, Lucas Matthysse or Marcos Maidana, if MM prevails against Devon Alexander. If JMM doesn’t get Pac for a fourth time, it’ll be Manny knows avoids him.

4: Nonito Donaire (27-1, 18 KOs) World super bantamweight/122 lb. champion. Donaire is by far one of the most exciting little men in boxing today. His extreme bone-crunching power is breathtaking. Just ask Vic Darchinyan who gave the “Filipino Flash” his first title go and he made the most of it with a one-punch knockout over the tough, gritty Armenian on 7/7/07. With Vic refusing a rematch, again his one-punch power was on display against Fernando Montiel, with a devastating blow that left poor Montiel quivering in a concussed state. In his last outing he didn’t impress anyone, but you couldn’t blame Nonito, seeing Omar Narvaez simply stayed in a defensive shell for 12 fistic frames. Donaire is prepping to meet Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. (21-1 18KOs) next. This bout (February, 2, 2012), could materialize into a spectacular slugfest between these power-punchers. Donaire is favored to win big, but nothing’s ever definite. Some experts say the “Filipino Flash” will claim yet another dramatic performance.

3: Sergio Martinez (48-2, 27 KOs) World middleweight/160 lbs. champion. “Maravilla” at 36, is simply getting better with age and the key might be his late start in the boxing game. His unbelievable speed will carry the day and make up for what some say is his somewhat poor defense. hIS power has grown from his light middleweight (154)days into a full fledged 160 pounder. With wins over Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams, Sergiy Dzinziruk and to a lesser extent, Darren Barker, he’s shown he is the real deal at 160. He is next scheduled to face Matthew Macklin (28-3, 19 KOs) at Madison Square Garden in New York on March 17th, 2012. Macklin lost a controversial decision (robbed) to Felix Sturm last year. Macklin gets another crack, this time at the true middleweight champ.

2: Manny Pacquiao (54-3, 38 KOs) WBO welterweight/147 lb. champ. Who’s bigger, Manny or Floyd? There’s enough room for debate on this question. For now, we will discuss why Pacquiao is #2 on the list. The Filipino Congressman is coming off an extremely controversial call against JMM last November, one in which the majority of ringside pundits thought he lost. This speed demon will bewilder foes with his astonishing punch output and gives great wonder to why he’s been able to climb up in weight. Pacquiao will continue to amaze us all with skill and guile. He’s one of our greatest modern athletes. Pacquiao was recently called out by Floyd “Numero Uno” Mayweather and Manny’s promoter Bob Arum has been hinting at a change of dates for the supposed match up. Pacquiao should take control of his own career and demand a fight with Floyd. Now if the fight does not take place, his legacy will be questioned just as his desire will be. Now I can mention his other options, but only one fight matters. And that’s him facing Floyd.

1: Floyd Mayweather (42-0 26KOs) WBC welterweight/147 lb. champ. Now there are many out there that will disagree with this rating while others will concur with no hesitation. Floyd is a genius in and out the ring. There is no doubt that this man is the best in our sport today. “Pretty Boy’s” extraordinary defensive gifts are bar none. He shows exceptionally high intelligence in the ring. Fighting in the pocket is his bread and butter and simply put, he’s unbeatable… for now. At 35, he’s no spring chicken and he’s been in the sport since an early age. How much longer will Mayweather fight? “Pretty Boy” has been adamant about facing the Filipino icon for his May 5th date at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Pacquiao has the resources and means to make this fight, but only if he truly wants to secure his legacy. Mayweather on the other hand will continue to dominate his class with no ill effects. If the fight does happen, and don’t hold your breath, it will most likely occur in November 2012. With all do respect to Pacquiao, Floyd will have his way in a shutout or late stoppage in one of the richest fights in history.

Dominic Verdin

Aldo Lands KO Knee

San Francisco, CA- On paper, the fight looked like he had a chance of being competive. After all challenger Chad Mendes was unbeaten. But that didn’t matter of UFC featherweight (145 lbs) champion Jose Also (21-1) retained his title with a sensational single knee. Aldo came out throwing hard kicks at Mendes. Some of the first round was spent with the pair clinched against the cage, this before the flying knee victory that knocked Mendes down and out.

MENDES COULD NOT TAKE CHAMP DOWN

UFC 142 was held at the HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Looking at the fight before hand, I thought the Brazilian’s knees would play a part, but not one landing in such a devastating manner. If Mendes was to be successful he needed to get Aldo off his feet. Although he tried, Chad couldn’t get it done. It was an ending that will long be remembered in the history of the UFC and MMA. The time was 4:59 of round one.

VITOR GAINS WIN OVER OVERWEIGHT JOHNSON

24 Ahours ago, Anthony Johnson was supposed to weigh in at 185 lbs. He was nearly 12 lbs. over the limit for his scrap with former phonom Vitor Belfort. Brazil’s Belfort told Johnson he would fight him if he weiged 205 or less Saturday. Complying, Johnson who made the weight only to get choked (rear naked choke) out by Belfort (21-9) at the 4:49 mark of the opening round. America’s Johnson declines to (10-4) while Belfort is slated to face Wanderlei Silva in a battle of two fading Brazilian legends.

WALK RIGHT IN & LIMP RIGHT OUT

Mike Massenzio didn’t last very long with Brazil’s Rousimar Palhares Palhares put Massenzio (13-6) in a position of checkmate with his trademark heel hook in a middleweight bout with the end coming just 63 seconds into the first round. Known for forcing guys to submit, Palhares (14-3) might be ready to take on the winner of the summer rematch between UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva and Chael Sonnan.

BRAZIL LOSEs ONE AS HOT WELTER DISQUALIFED

Erick Silva (13-2) suffered an unexpected loss when referee Mario Yamasaki disqualified Silva for illegal blows to the back of the head at 29 seconds of the first round with Carlo Prater. When the referee was questioned after the replays showed no fouls, he said. “I have to decide right there and then,” Yamasaki said. “There is nothing I can do.” Sounds as close to an admission of his being wrong as they come. Silva was in control and on his way to a stoppage victory before the ref made the call. Veteran Prater falls to 30-10.

RARE SPINNING KICK “KO” A FIRST FOR UFC?

Brazil’s Edson Barbozo is said to have the first spinning wheel kick KO in the history of the UFC. The kick was such that is dropped the UK’s Terry Etim in a heap at the 2:02 mark of the third round of a lightweight (155) battle. I’m thinking Barboza (10-0) will get a lot of play from the win. Etim is 15-4.

Pedro Fernandez

Arthur Abraham, (167.5), Berlin, Germany TKO 5 Pablo Farias, (166), Buenos Aires, Argentina 
Abraham (33-3, 27 KOs) loosened up against Farias (19-2, 11 KOs) after four lackluster rounds by dropping an overwhelmed Farias three times in 2:00 of the fifth. 

Kubrat Pulev, (250.8), Sofia, Bulgaria RTD 9 Michael Sprott, (254.6), Reading, United Kingdom. Pulev (15-0, 7 KOs) remains unbeaten as Sprott (36-18, 17 KOs) doesn’t come out for round ten.

Friday, January 13, 2012

ESPN2 IN THE SUN

Las Vegas, NV- Cristopher Martin, Chula Vista, CA Majority Draw 10 Teon Kennedy, Philadelphia, PA. Martin (23-1-3, 7 KOs) and Kennedy (17-1-2, 6 KOs) fought as close a competitive fight as possible making the score of 97-93 questionable and the other two cards at 95-95 correct.
             
Yordenis Ugas, Santiago de Cuba, Cuba UD 8 Esteban Almaraz, Harlingen, TX
Ugas (11-0, 5 KOs) despite knocking down Almaraz (10-5, 4 KOs) in the first round, goes the distance.  Winning easily on the cards by scores of 80-71 twice and 79-72.

Edwin “Ace” Ayala
 

Bob Arum

San Francisco, CA- When Floyd Patterson was heavyweight champ back in the late 50s & early 60s, the big fight for many a moon for Floyd was a match with Sonny Liston. But Cus D’Amato, Patterson’s manager, wanted no part of Liston for two reasons. The first being Sonny’s ties to the Mob. But the more important factor was that Cus knew that the 215 lb. fighter from St. Louis would mop the floor with Patterson, who at 190 or so, was an Olympian in 1952 at 165 lbs.

PATTERSON DID NOT CATCH WELL

The “peek a boo” style utilized by Patterson was designed by Cus to protect the not so solid Patterson chin. D’Amato would later invoke this style on Jose Torres and Mike Tyson, perhaps not for the same reason. Besides fighting Ingamar Johanson thrice, and an old Archie Moore, the guys Floyd fought were, and I’m being kind, stiffs!

ARUM IN THE CUS D’AMATO MODE OF OPERATION?

In all accounts, Bob Arum, Manny Pacquiao’s promoter is the person impeding a fight between Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather. Look, nobody is expecting Floyd to destroy the Pacman as Sonny did to Patterson. But most are of the opinion that Floyd Mayweather beats Manny Pacquiao both easily and soundly. That being said, and it’s been stated before, Bob Arum knows the risk of fighting Mayweater, that it far outweighs the monies involved.

WHO DOES FLOYD FIGHT NOW WITH PAC OUT?

With Mayweather-Pacquiao dead in the water for this May, reports are that Floyd will instead face WBC 154 lb. champ Saul Alvarez, or Robert Guerrero the best lightweight/jr. welterweight in the world.

PAC ALLOWING HIS LEGACY TO BE “TAINTED”

Look, I know that dealing with Floyd Mayweather’s team of advsors can be excruciating. I also know unless Arum is given a significant role in the promotion, his ego won’t allow it to happen. Unless Pacquiao puts his foot down and tells Bob what time it is, the fight probably won’t happen, not in May or November, not ever! In the end, it’ll be Pacquiao being hounded for the rest of his life with the question, “Why didn’t you fight Floyd Mayweather?”

Pedro Fernandez

Floyd Mayweather-Manny Pacquiao

San Francisco, CA- There is little question that a fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao is the boxing match people want to see. The “not so hip” to the game of boxing, a demographic I refer to as “the squares,” well, that’s what they are talking about. I get asked daily: “When are Mayweather and Pacquiao going to fight? When I point out that they would have fought March 13, 2010 had Manny Pacquiao agreed to what he “supposedly has NOW agreed to,” random drug testing.

WITH JAIL LOOMING PAC CAMP WAS TALKING TOUGH!

When it appeared Floyd Mayweather was not going to be able to fight on May 5, 2012 because a Clark County Superior Court Judge imposed a 90-180 day stint in County Jail for “Domestic Violence” Floyd is said to have inflicted on an ex-girlfriend, both Manny Pacquiao. his promoter Bob Arum, oh and I can’t forget the Pacnuts, they all acted as if Manny “would have” fought Mayweather on May 5 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena that Mayweather has already rented out for the day, but since he was going to jail the fight could not be made. Wrong!

NEAR GENIUS MOVE BY FLOYD TO GET MGM GRAND

When Las Vegas officials that wanted Mayweather to start his jail sentence on January 6 learned that he had a contract to fight at the MGM on May 5, the judge changed her mind and stated she would allow Floyd Jr. to do his formal jail time at a later date this year. You just knew that with the Las Vegas economy in the toilet that this little old court case was going to deprive the economy of untold millions in dollars. People, this is Las Vegas!

FOGHORN LEGHORN, HE BE STUMBLING & MUMBLING

Now all you can hear is the Foghorn Leghorn of boxing, Pacquiao’s promoter and Top Rank skipper Bob Arum with a bunch of excuses on why the fight can’t be made on May 5. How much of this has to do with the ego of Arum. Not only did Mayweather grab the biggest casino venue for May 5, the MGM for Mexican Independence Day AKA Cinco de Mayo, what Floyd did here was outfox Arum the fox. In case you didn’t know, the fox always wants to have the upper hand and in most instances does when it comes to boxing in general, and Manny Pacquiao in particular, Arum gets his way.

MAYWEATHER HAS THE DATE & ARENA

Knowing Arum, I’m sure the thought of putting a big Mexican star on top in another Las Vegas venue. But this is 2012 and Arum doesn’t have any Mexican superstars other than the overrated Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. With Chavez fighting at the end of the month, Jr. should be available May 5 should Arum decide to go “toe to toe” with Floyd. Massa’ Bob could put Chavez outside at a baseball park or at UNLV. My predictions is if that were to happen, it would be a double-edged sword for the sport/business. Chavez might out draw Mayweather if he were to face Sergio Martinez.

LAST TWO PACQUIAO FIGHTS SHOW AGING MANNY

Even though Mayweather is 35 next month and Pacman just turned 33, Manny has had the tough fights. In his two appearances against Shane Mosley and Juan Manuel Marquez, that was not a Pacquiao that could prevail over Mayweather Jr. What it did was clearly illustrate to any objective soul that Mayweather is vastly superior in overall boxing ability and speed. Especially with Marquez in November, a fight in which a majority of the media thought Marquez won, it was a night Pacquiao looked as flat as day old San Miguel beer.

MAYWEATHER DOING HIS TARZAN ACT!

Now with jail no longer an immediate peril, Mayweather jumped up on a soapbox and started beating on his chest, “I want Manny Pacquiao May 5.” To Floyd, the Marquez fight with Pacquiao dashed any doubt in which he might have about being able to beat Pacman. And before the Pacnuts go crazy here, you can pound on your chest all you want, but nothing can change that. If they don’t fight in May, having already worn out their welcome with some fans, that would make November and Floyd being then close to 36 and Manny 34, the procrastination, pontificating, the BS is killing the fight and has to cease.

DOES IT BOIL DOWN TO EGO?

Not for Manny Pacquiao, but both his promoter Bob Arum and Floyd Mayweather Jr. Both despise one another and have such huge egos, this alone could make Pacquiao-Mayweather never come to fruition. With Mayweather having already grabbed the best arena in the boxing capital of the world, Arum would have to play “second-fiddle” on this show, something I learned when he was head to head alongside Don King, Bob doesn’t like. From all accounts, Bob Arum is the main impediment preventing Mayweather-Pacquiao, as Manny has stated he would take less money and do the random drug testing. So Bob, you going to let this happen or not? If they don’t fight each other, both Pacquiao and Mayweather will have to answer one question for eternity, “Why didn’t you guys fight?”

Pedro Fernandez

Yuri Gamboa

Los Angeles, CA- So many Cuban defectors of the past have had some of the greatest success in the amateur system. Many distinguished former amateur standouts never did defect from their beloved nation or so-called beloved dictator Fidel Castro. Perhaps it was for fear of severe punishment to break free from conformity, although it is within the realm of any individual to occupy peace and tranquility in the confinements of reasoning. On the contrary, reluctant free-minded Cubanos strive vigorously to attain fame, riches and recognition in a sport they have commanded for years in the unpaid ranks. When confronted with adversity, one must face risks in exchange for success. Who can blame them to want more? But the big question is why haven’t the greatest amateur boxers attain equal status as a professional?

WELL-ROUNDED GAMBOA LOOKS INCREDIBLY TALENTED!

Yuriorkis Gamboa is a free-minded Cuban who will not let a dream of wealth and prosperity go unflourished. Gamboa seized the Gold Medal in the 2004 Olympics held in Athens, Greece. He collected his very first paycheck in the occupation of pugilist on April 27, 2007 against Alexan Manvelyan. So far, Gamboa has acquired an official record of (21-0, 16 KOs), thus far in his five years as a pro. Coming up in 2012, Yuri will be facing another Olympic representative in the faded American Rocky Juarez who garnered a Silver in the 2000 on March 3, 2012. Juarez (28-9, 20 KOs) is a loser in his last five with a draw. Rocky’s last significant win was against Jorge Barrios (KO 11) in 2008. Houston, TX’s Juarez is 0-5 in title challenges.

GUESS HBO IS NOT GETTING THE MESSAGE FROM YOU FANS

HBO needs to stop with these showcase fights. I know, we know, HBO knows this little dynamite from Guantanamo, Cuba can brawl with intense fury at times. In the minds of many, Gamboa executes flashes of gold, which transpires into his leather covered gloves moving at the speed of light, something only physics can comprehend. What makes Yuri exciting is that he dissipates a perfect game plan, squanders his defense and deprives oneself of excellence. Gamboa’s talent combined with his ever-growing flaws has me salivating to the point of no return.

WHEN JUAN MA GOT LICKED, GAMBOA’S SUPER CLASH CRASHED

Gamboa, 30, has plenty of options from 130 to 135 lbs. His one mega-fight was with Puerto Rico’s Juan Manuel Lopez until he was KO’d. There are only a few money fights out there: Adrien Broner, (22-0, 18 KOs) is another speedster with plenty of pop. However like most cases with Gamboa, the kid from Cincinnati has the superior size advantage with the right ingredients to supply Gamboa with the first blemish on his record. Chances: Not now, not soon. Broner is with Golden Boy Promotions and Gamboa has Top Rank. Even with the ceasefire we may not get many fights, so why wait on this one.

SOME THINK YURI GAMBOA IS A SLAM DUNK!

While the jury may still be out on Gamboa, our own Pedro Fernandez feels that Gamboa bringing in Emanuel Steward to train him, was the missing link on Yuri’s chain to greatness. Gamboa has all the intangibles to achieve great success, until he steps up and fights the best there is, I’ll still have my doubts.

Dominic Verdin

San Francisco, CA-The most popular (per capita- 100,000 people) countries when it comes to boxing and UFC are polar opposites when it comes to geographical location and culture. As far as Pay Per View is concerned, Manny Pacquiao-Juan Manuel Marquez III topped all boxing and UFC events when it did an estimated 1,410,000 buys. Floyd Mayweather-Victor Ortiz came in #2 at 1,250,000 purchases. Coming in at #3 was the Manny Pacquiao-Shane Mosley match which sold 1,100,000. #4 UFC 129: Georges St. Pierre-Jake Shields at 800,000. #5 UFC 124: St. Pierre vs. Josh Koscheck had 785,000. #6. UFC 126: Anderson Silva-Vitor Belfort checks in at 725,000. #7. WrestleMania @ 679,000 buys. #8: Junior Dos Santos-Shane Carwin had at 670,000. #8-Miguel Cotto-Antonio Margarito II with 600,000. #9-UFC 133: Jon Jones-Quinton Jackson turned the crank 520,000 times. #10-UFC 128: Jon Jones Mauricio Rua closed the books at 490,000 buys.

BOXING COUNTRIES ON THE LEFT & UFC COUNTRIES ON THE RIGHT!

1. Philippines 1. Brazil
2. Mexico 2. Canada
3. United Kingdom 3. United States
4. Ireland 4. Philippines
5. New Zealand 5. Australia
6. Australia 6. Ireland
7. United States 7. United Kingdom
8. Canada 8. Sweden
9. Finland 9. France
10. Greece 10. Mexico

Pedro Fernandez

Luke Rockhold

San Francisco, CA- Strikeforce middleweight (185 lbs) champ Luke Rockhold dispatched former 170 lb. MMA gatekeeper Keith Jardine in less time than it took for his walk to the cage Saturday night at the Hard Rock in Las Vegas. The highlights belonged to 26-year old Rockhold who pulled off a spinning back kick that caught the undersized and shopworn native of Albuquerque, NM square in the gut. After that, with the writing on the wall as the 26-year old champion out of nearby San Jose and the American Kickboxing Academy, dropping Jardine with a clean right hand.

ROCKHOLD SHOULD SHUT UP & TAKE THE CASH

The veteran tough guy got up and then went to the Luke Rockhold “punch buffet,” you know when you eat an unlimited numbers, thus referee Herb Dean stepped in to call the fight off at 4:26 of the opening round. Rockhold who was “crying” for better competition, especially from guys in the UFC’s 185 lb. contenders goes to 10-1. He should not bitch too much as he got an easy touch in Jardine, something not all that prevalent in elite MMA. Jardine is now 36 and drops to 16-11-2.

ROBBIE LAWLER & THE ILLEGAL KNEE

Robbie Lawler is not a guy to cross. With a dual edge razor blade like toughness to him, the MMA crowd favorite forcefully made Adlan Amagov pay for an illegal knee (you can’t knee a downed guy in the head) to the cranium in the first round by stopping him with “punches in bunches” at the 1:48 mark of the initial five-minute stanza. Lawlor, as exciting as he is, I just don’t think that at 29 he’s top tier (UFC) material. That being said, the Gilbert, AZ resident moves to 19-8-1. Russian born Adlan now living in Fairfield, NJ is 24 and falls to 9-2-1.

“KING MO” ON A ROLL AGAIN?

Muhammed Lawal is known to MMA fans as “King Mo.” On the Strikeforce portion of the card televised by Showtime, the 25-year old “King Mo” Lawal snatched the “0″ away from the previously unbeaten Lorenz Larkin (now 12-1). Being better in all facets of the game, the ex-Strikeforce light heavyweight (205) champion, now 31, was beating Larkin of Riverside, CA to the punch and kick for most of the first round. In round two, Tennessee born Lawal now 9-1 and living and training in San Jose, CA, saw the blood in the water and went for the kill in round two. A string of shots, mostly rights prompted the referee to stop the fight at 1:33 of #2.

Pedro Fernandez

Key West, FL- Dyah Davis, (166.75 lbs), Coconut Creek, FL UD 10 Alfonso Lopez (167), Cut and Shoot, TX. Davis (21-2-1, 9 KOs) and Lopez (22-2, 9 KOs) find a cure for insomnia in this farce.  Scores were 99-91 & 100-90 twice.

Denis Douglin, (154.5), Marlboro, NJ SD 10 Steve Martinez, (153.75), Bronx, NY. Douglin (14-1, 8 KOs) hands Martinez (11-1, 9 KOs) his first loss as a professional in a tough fight.  Cards read 77-75 twice for Douglin and 77-75 for Martinez.

SHOWTIME BOXING PRESENTS SHO BOX

Indio, CA- Luis Ramos Jr., (134.8), Santa Ana, CA UD 10 Raymundo Beltran, (134.2), Phoenix, AZ
A bloody Ramos Jr. (21-0, 9 KOs) is rewarded a decision over Beltran (25-6, 17 KOs).  Cut by head butts, Ramos Kept focused throughout the fight while Beltran kept busy. Cards were 96-94 & 97-93 twice. To put it mildly, Beltran was furious with the decision. 

Omar Figueroa, (134.4), Weslaco, TX TKO 7 Michael Perez, (134.6), Newark, NJ. Figueroa (14-0-1, 11 KOs) beats Perez (15-1-1, 9 KOs) into submission behind a tremendous body attack that had Perez staying on his stool before the start of round seven. 

Edwin “Ace” Ayala

San Francisco, CA- We aired a bonus hour of “Ring Talk Worldwide” Saturday that featured world renowned trainer Jeff Mayweather, who is Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s uncle. He talked about guys campaigning to fight Floyd. “They’re the only ones talking about it. It’s like they’re trying to win an election.” And Jeff also passes opinion on Saul Alvarez, the WBC 154 lb. champion Saul Alvarez. Publicist Mario Serrano had a different opinion and he all but said it’ll be Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Robert Guerrero on May 5 from the MGM Grand. Listen for yourself, but it was something like they “were expecting a contract in the day or so.” I don’t think Serrano would come on the show and say, listen for yourself, what he said about Robert Guerrero and Floyd Mayweather if he hadn’t seen or been privy to high level talks. “Listen Now”

Floyd Mayweather-Larry Merchant

San Francisco, CA- HBO’s resident “Godfather” Larry Merchant was again true to himself on “Ring Talk Worldwide,” on the Sports Byline Broadcast Network The most prolific boxing announcer or analyst of the past quarter century, Larry does not wear the big gloves with Floyd Mayweather Jr. In other words, his hits are both precise and potent.

LISTEN NOW “LONGEST RUNNING” FIGHT SHOW IN HISTORY

UFC fighter Kyle Kingsbury had some thoughts on the UFC and MMA in general. Investigative reporter Linda Bentley of the Sonoran News in Arizona (SonoranNews.com) dropped a bit of a bomb when she said that she feels trainer Joe Diaz will prevail in his suits against the State of Arizona and others including Top Rank. Kevin Perry was also on point. To listen NOW

San Francisco, CA- It was a great year for the UFC. They inked a $100 million deal (seven years) with the FOX TV network and almost 10,000,000 people watch their initial FOX TV network broadcast in November. But injuries/bad luck cut into 2011 profits and hurt the product and their bottom line. Manny Pacquiao is the Google king and we go over a very light weekend in boxing. All this today at RingTalk.com

Dana White

San Francisco, CA- According to Dave Meltzer of the WrestlingObserver.com weekly newsletter, the UFC have had falling numbers for a couple of years now. They did record the biggest live gate of 2011 when Georges St. Pierre defended the UFC welterweight (170 lbs) against Jake Shields in Toronto, Canada on April 3, 2011. The live gate totaled $12,075,000. Those who are experts in Pay Per View say that St. Pierre is worth about 500,000 homes on PPV fighting anybody. The UFC did 15 PPV events in 2011, the same as 2010. But the 2010 PPV numbers were at 8,970,000 buys, only to see the 2011 numbers fall to 5,950,000.

DOES THIS MEAN THE UFC IS LOSING IT?

No, I don’t think so. The PPV money in 2011 was $43,839,517, up from $40,841,489. I’m also of the opinion that the new FOX TV contract took a little bit away from the UFC PPV crowd. That being said, in time this will be the opposite as the FOX fights will compel people to buy the big cards on Pay Per View. The UFC is averaging 397,000 buys per event, this too was down from the 2010 numbers that topped out at 598,000. UFC President Dana White who is pictured above, I can tell you that he’s not fretting any.

THE UFC PPV SCHEDULE DECIMATED BY INJURIES

There were a slew of injuries, topped by the UFC’s biggest PPV star Georges St. Pierre who suffered a torn ACL, champions Anderson Silva, Dominick Cruz, Cain Velasquez, Phil Davis missed a PPV main event in August. Brock Lesnar, who retired last week almost died from Diverticulitis, and had part of his intestines removed. Frankie Edgar missed a fight because of injuries. The list could continue, but I think you get the point that UFC “stars” suffered more than their share of physical woes.

PEOPLE GETTING DRENCHED BY TOO MUCH MMA?

With MMA on almost nightly, be it Comcast, Showtime, Fuel TV, Spike TV, FOX Sports, MTV2, and a big card later this month on FOX TV, is it too much? I am of the opinion that people who are to become MMA or UFC fans will find themselves on these lower echelon cards. People will realize the talent levels of the various promotions and will in turn realize that the UFC, Strikeforce and their only competition, the fledging Bellator Fighting Championships that will be leaving MTV2 at the end of this year for Spike TV, where their audience will be millions more than MTV2. Bottom line is that the UFC had a rough year because of injuries. Still, I see the sport of MMA, and the UFC as a whole growing in 2012 and 2013.

Pedro Fernandez

Manny Pacquiao

San Francisco, CA- When it comes to Internet interest, Manny Pacquiao was looked up on Google more than any other fighter, be it MMA or boxing in the United States. Just to make things interesting we’ve included some professional wrestlers as well.

1) Manny Pacquiao 2010 #3 (Champion boxer)
2) Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson 2010 #23 (Actor-WWE)
3) John Cena 2010 #1 (WWE)
4) Randy Savage 2010-No rating. (Retired wrestler died in May 2011)
5) Floyd Mayweather Jr. 2010 #5 (Champion boxer)
6) Mike Tyson 2010-No rating. (Retired boxer & Reality TV star)
7) Georges St. Pierre 2010 #4 (UFC champion)
8) CM Punk 2010-No rating. (WWE)
9) Anderson Silva 2010 #6 (UFC champion)
10) Jon Jones 2010 #41 (UFC champion)

OTHER BOXERS IN THE GOOGLE TOP 75

12) Muhammad Ali 2010-No rating. (Retired boxing champion)
18) George Foreman 2010-No rating (Retired boxing champion)
19) Victor Ortiz 2010-No rating. (Active boxer)
20) Joe Frazier 2010-No rating. Retired boxing champion died at 67.
30) Shane Mosley 2010 #34 (Hopefully retired boxer)
37) Amir Khan 2010 #49 (Active boxer)
49) Oscar De La Hoya 2010-No rating. (Retired boxer went into rehab & admitted wearing ladies underwear.
52) Miguel Cotto 2010-No rating.
66) Juan Manuel Marquez 2010-No rating. (Robbed active boxer)

Pedro Fernandez

Key West, FL- (ESPN 2) Alfonso Lopez (22-1, 17 KOs) vs. Dyah Davis (20-2-1, 9 KOs) Odds/Prediction: Even! Two well-matched super middleweights!
Steve Martinez (11-0, 9 KOs) vs. Denis Douglin (13-1, 8 KOs) Odds/Prediction: 6-5′ pick ‘em. Tough to make a pick here!

Fantasy Springs Casino, Indio, CA- (Showtime) Luis Ramos Jr. (20-0, 9 KOs) vs. Raymundo Beltran (25-5, 17 KOs) Odds/Prediction: Beltran 11-5. Computer says seasoned fighter tops unbeaten one. Close fight, lean towards favorite here.
Michael Perez (15-0-1, 9 KOs) vs. Omar Figueroa (13-0-1, 10 KOs) Odds/Prediction: Perez 2-1. Perez looks to be the better of the two in close matchup!

Saturday, January 7, 2012

TLEFUTURA HOLDS SATURDAY NIGHT DANCE CARD

Westin Diplomat Resort, Hollywood, FL
(Telefutura) Ed Paredes (28-3-1, 18 KOs) vs. Michael Lozada (39-9-1, 31 KOs) Odds/Prediction: Paredes 12-5. Paredes a level better than Lozada.

Pedro Fernandez

Professor Chuck Marbry

Liberty,NC- Off of 36th Street in Charlotte, North Carolina, in an empty section of closed down Johnston Mills, Lou Kemp (Carangio) had a cavernous room that he had transformed into Old School Boxing Nirvana. From the second I stepped in, I was hooked. No pretense. Old wooden floors. One boxing ring on a six inch platform, four heavy bags, four speed bags, (well, two speed bags, one “peanut” bag and one “elephant” bag), some mirrors on the wall enough room to jump rope, huge windows covered with gray dust from yesteryear, the smell of leather, sweat, adrenalin and determination.

SOMETIMES MORE RHYTHM THAN THE MOTOWN STUDIOS

There was a rhythm to the routine at Lou’s gym, Lou’s rhythm. There were no clocks on the wall, no electric timers. Just Lou with his trusty stop-watch around his neck, yelling “time!” Funny thing, in all the years I trained and worked with Lou, I seldom saw Lou actually look at the stop-watch, but when I began training fighters myself, I found Lou’s timing was eerily right. There was an order to the workout in Lou’s gym. First was loosening up and stretching. Fifteen to twenty minutes at a minimum, and the larger or more out of shape you were the more loosening and stretching you did. Then came shadow boxing. How much shadow boxing depended on how advanced a boxed you were, or when you had a fight scheduled. If you were to spar, sparring was next. After sparring, another round of shadow boxing or two, then two to four rounds on the heavy bags. Then the speed bags, and then some calisthenics. And always in that order.

LIKE OCCUPY CHICAGO, THERE WERE NO SHOWERS

There was a toilet at the gym, but no showers. About twenty sets of hand-wraps were hung in various places around the gym to dry. With all the characters we had in and out of the gym, I was always amazed that the hand-wraps didn’t get stolen, but they didn’t. In the summer, Lou would begrudgingly open some windows, but the temperature still hit 95* by mid afternoon. In the winter, we would all chip in to buy heating oil to knock the chill off ( there were no membership fees), but usually a former fighter who had made it big in the corporate world would see to it we didn’t die of hypothermia (Thanks to Ferguson Box Company, and Humpy Wheeler, former CEO of Charlotte Motor Speedway).

TRIED TO ABSORB LOU’S KNOWLEDGE LIKE A SPONGE

Since I drove an hour and a half to get to Lou’s, after working out, Lou and I would stop a cafe for a bite before the drive home. Then the education would begin as Lou talked and I would listen. And I absorbed as much as I could from this Italian fount of knowledge. Lou and boxing taught me more about life and myself than any class or any “shrink” could ever begin to. At the end of the day the Manly Art of Self Defense isn’t about punching or parrying a blow, it’s about overcoming insecurity and fear. It’s about hard work and digging deep inside and finding something you didn’t even know was there.

KEMP SPARRED INTO HIS SEVENTIES

The last time I actually technically sparred was with now-late Lou (Kemp) Carangio when he was 74 years old, and he still had a trick or two up his sleeve. And that, my friends, is Old School!

Professor Chuck Marbry