Boxing

[ssbriefcase]

I'll start by saying I refused to watch this fight. As soon as this fight was made, I rolled my eyes. If GGG wasn't as good or better than the last time they fought then why waste my time and $, and clearly that wouldn't be the case. Besides that, DAZN wanted $65 on top of me already having a subscription which I pay $20/month!! Hell no.

I did check in on live scorecards and summaries while I watched a show on Netflix. I also just poured over twitter this morning mainly looking at ex boxers, pundits, etc. I can't find a single post from anyone saying anything other than the judges score cards were way closer than what they had.

Oh well, we got some upcoming fights that will set up bigger fights in the future, nothing spectacular that I can see.

 

[JAXCUSE]

I've now seen all three of the Canelo-Alvarez - Gennady Golovkin fights and all three have had the same general pattern: GGG, the older man, seems to get stronger as the bout goes on and to win most of the late rounds. Unfortunately, the commentators often seem to develop a scenario for the fight and to describe their scenario rather than the actual action of the fight and I think this happened tonight. I agree with one point they made: that Canelo-Alvarez' superior hand speed cause GGG to be tentative, afraid to "let his hands go" or really lean into his punches. But they kept describing that even when GGG decided to be aggressive and risk the punishment to score shots of his own. Many of those shots were from his piston-like jab while Canelo went with powerful counters, many of them to the body. The impact of canelo's punches might have been greater but those jabs are scoring punches, too.

I have no problem scoring a round even if I think there was no clear winner: those rounds should not decide the fight. I graded the first round even because not much happened. Then I gave Canelo four rounds in a row: GGG didn't seem to want to take any chances and Canelo was backing him up. But then Gennady got that jab going and I gave him the 6th, 8th, 9th and 11th rounds with rounds 10 and 12 even: 116-115 for Canelo. The judges had it for Canelo as well, 116-112 and 115-113. The commentators couldn't believe how close the scores were: hadn't the judges been listening to them?

At no time in the 36 rounds of the three fighters did either fighter have the other in any serious danger of being knocked out, even though they have knocked out a combined 76 men. they truly are two of the best middleweights of all time. Their first two fights were constant action, with both fighters winning portions of each round, making the fights very difficult to score. I'd been rooting to Canelo in each because people said that GGG was invincible and thought Canelo could be the guy to beat him. I graded both fights for Golovkin but Canelo got a draw and a win. I did think he won this one but that it was a lot closer than the talking heads realized.

Nonetheless, this appears to be the end of the trilogy. Now we wait for Crawford-Spence.

Hope we see Crawford/Spence soon, but afraid it’s sliding into 2023 now…. Damn network and promoter greed IMO…

Speaking of network nonsense (DAZN in this instance), over $60 for a fight that was well past it’s “due date” was pretty greedy as well (again, my opinion….).

Played out as I expected (although thought Canelo might stop Gennady this time). I didn’t score it nearly as close as you (or the judges) did. I had it 8-4. GGG is old and couldn’t pull the trigger. Canelo younger and less shop-worn: reflexes and speed are allot less “aged.” Alvarez’s left was a problem for GGG all night. Neutralized Golovkin’s jab. Thought Alvarez “pulled up” after the 8th and decided to coast (seemed a bit gassed too; maybe due to weight cut from 175). And while I also thought GGG was better late, he just doesn’t have the motor/work rate anymore…. Still has that ram-rod jab and chin, but the feet and hands aren’t what they once were. Hope he retires, rather than stick around for the ignominious “pre-retirement” beat down at the hands of a Benevidez or Charlo. Canelo took it easy on him. The young bucks looking for a scalp will not.

Interesting to see what Canelo does next. DAZN wants the Bivol rematch. Bad idea. Alvarez has looked less than “peak” to me the last couple of fights. Too reliant on the one big punch and less upon his hand speed and counter punching abilities. Work/punch rate has been in decline for several years now. Was more balanced for this fight, but still not top form. Jumping weight categories doesn’t help. Father Time might be catching him too…..

Let’s hope Crawford/Spence happens. Way too much “over marination” in the sport these days.

 

[SWC75]

THE FUTURE, per ESPN:

Boxing's top 25 under 25: Who's No. 1?

From champions to prospects, boxing is packed with young talent and future stars.

www.espn.com

 

[SWC75]

I got home from the football game and tuned in to catch the end of the Shakur Stevenson- Robson Conceigao fight. It seemed like a pretty competitive fight with RC energetically going after Stevenson, who took a couple of good shots and even fell down to a slip at one point. The announcer talked about a 4th round knockdown, (of RC), and how a doctor had to have a look at him after the 7th round but he re4ally didn't look the worse for wear. Stevenson had also had a point deducted from his total for a foul. But the scoring was one-sided in Stevenson's favor. I decided to take a look at a replay today:



I graded it 119-108, giving Stevenson every round except the 8th, which I had as a tie and the 9th, which became a 9-9 tie with the point deduction. RC was what they used to call a 'cutie', holding his hands down, positioning himself to throw punches from odd angles, stepping on Stevenson's foot a couple of times, (he's a righty, Shakur a lefty). It didn't confuse Shakur, who stood right in front of him and hit him with jabs, hooks, uppercuts and body shots that were far more direct that RC's looping punches. Eventually Rc gave up on the low guard think and put his hands up to protect his face. That's when Shakur nailed him with a body punch at the end of the fourth round, causing RC to sag while Shakur phut his arms on him. It looked to some as if RC had been pushed down but he went down due to punch. The You-Tube version doesn't show any of the between the round action so the doctor's visit and what occasioned it is not there.

The impressive thing about RC was that his energy level never lagged. He was still game and going at it to the end and he scored some shots on Shakur. But they didn't have much impact and many more were blocked or avoids. As the commentator says, "He saw them coming from across the street". The problem with Shakur continues to be a lack of power. In this fight, that could have bene because of his struggles to make the weight. He lost his junior lightweight tiles because of it. But he's now 19-0 with 9 knockouts, a low percentage for a top fighter. He's now going to leave the junior lightweights and fight as a 135 pounder against the big names in that division and the results should be interesting.

 

[JAXCUSE]

I got home from the football game and tuned in to catch the end of the Shakur Stevenson- Robson Conceigao fight. It seemed like a pretty competitive fight with RC energetically going after Stevenson, who took a couple of good shots and even fell down to a slip at one point. The announcer talked about a 4th round knockdown, (of RC), and how a doctor had to have a look at him after the 7th round but he re4ally didn't look the worse for wear. Stevenson had also had a point deducted from his total for a foul. But the scoring was one-sided in Stevenson's favor. I decided to take a look at a replay today:



I graded it 119-108, giving Stevenson every round except the 8th, which I had as a tie and the 9th, which became a 9-9 tie with the point deduction. RC was what they used to call a 'cutie', holding his hands down, positioning himself to throw punches from odd angles, stepping on Stevenson's foot a couple of times, (he's a righty, Shakur a lefty). It didn't confuse Shakur, who stood right in front of him and hit him with jabs, hooks, uppercuts and body shots that were far more direct that RC's looping punches. Eventually Rc gave up on the low guard think and put his hands up to protect his face. That's when Shakur nailed him with a body punch at the end of the fourth round, causing RC to sag while Shakur phut his arms on him. It looked to some as if RC had been pushed down but he went down due to punch. The You-Tube version doesn't show any of the between the round action so the doctor's visit and what occasioned it is not there.

The impressive thing about RC was that his energy level never lagged. He was still game and going at it to the end and he scored some shots on Shakur. But they didn't have much impact and many more were blocked or avoids. As the commentator says, "He saw them coming from across the street". The problem with Shakur continues to be a lack of power. In this fight, that could have bene because of his struggles to make the weight. He lost his junior lightweight tiles because of it. But he's now 19-0 with 9 knockouts, a low percentage for a top fighter. He's now going to leave the junior lightweights and fight as a 135 pounder against the big names in that division and the results should be interesting.

While I think Shakur is the best 130-35 lber in the world (have felt so for about the last 6 months or so), the “ESPN promotional narrative” and weak matchmaking is becoming tiresome to this fight fan…

I’m not a conspiracy theorist, but wouldn’t be surprised if TR told Stevenson “now is the time to hype your jump to 135 / don’t bother trying to make 130 for this defense / just drop the Jr Light belts (TR doesn’t care about that division anymore or just let Navarette have it - weak competition at that category right now) / we have Haney (undisputed) and Loma under contract at 135 / let’s set “media demand” for matchups at Lightweight….

I thought fight was uncompetitive and unexciting from the opening bell. Bad stylistic mix - Brazilian long, awkward, home-run thrower and low work rate vs defensive specialist with average punch who doesn’t close. I liked Teddy Atlas’ comment - “I stayed up past midnight for this crap…”.

That said, it’s far past time to put Stevenson in with the elite of his weight category. He toys with B Class competition. I respect that, but 135 talent pool contains guys (stylistically, durability and size) that will challenge him. Even a guy like Pitbull Cruz would present all kinds of problems for Stevenson (that I’d like to see if he can handle). If I’m Teo Lopez, I get my head together, suck back to 135 and challenge this kid. Big stylistic, size and power advantage IMO….

But, I get the business model. It’s all about minimizing risk and maximizing gain (to the fighter and for the promotional group). Not so much fighter development or even excitement for the fans.

That’s why we still don’t have Crawford/Spence….

Best fight of weekend was Joyce/Parker (Heavies). Hard fought, gutsy and great KO. Joyce is kinda (stylistically) like Big George Foreman. Not quite the weight in the hands, but is awkward, has the chin, heavy punch and just keeps coming forward. Fun to watch. Would present a formidable challenge to a smaller Usyk. DAZN is trying to “hype” that matchup if a Fury unification matchup cannot be made.

 

[SWC75]

No action here since September and I don't think I've watched a fight since then. Amidst all the football, futboll and roundball I managed to watch Tyson Fury beat up poor Derek Chisora for 10 rounds until the referee had had enough. I gave the Gypsy King every round. There were no knockdowns. The 6-2 Chisora couldn't get past Fury's "half jab, half hook" and absorbed too many right hands as well.

Fury wants operation on his elbow that will take 4-6 weeks to recover from. He wants three fights next year with the next one being Usyk, (they had a stare down: Fury called him "The Rabbit"). If that falls through, he wants Joe Joyce.

Please: no more trial horses.

 

[JAXCUSE]

No action here since September and I don't think I've watched a fight since then. Amidst all the football, futboll and roundball I managed to watch Tyson Fury beat up poor Derek Chisora for 10 rounds until the referee had had enough. I gave the Gypsy King every round. There were no knockdowns. The 6-2 Chisora couldn't get past Fury's "half jab, half hook" and absorbed too many right hands as well.

Fury wants operation on his elbow that will take 4-6 weeks to recover from. He wants three fights next year with the next one being Usyk, (they had a stare down: Fury called him "The Rabbit"). If that falls through, he wants Joe Joyce.

Please: no more trial horses.

I missed Fury/Chisora yesterday. Not the Trilogy I was looking forward to.

Fight of the day was Choc - Gallo III. Rare DAZN card held in the US. Estrada wins close Majority Decision and takes the career series 2-1….

Styles different, but not much give between the two. Just like their 2nd fight, Estrada managed distance and outworked Gonzalez over the first 6 rds. Choclatito closed gap and finished stronger over 2nd half of fight. I actually scored this one a draw. Both showing some ring wear and tear at this stage of careers (threw 600 fewer punches collectively than last bout), but still a highly entertaining fight.

I’ll give the older Fly/SuperFly generation (Choc, Estrada, Sor Rungvisai, Cuadras) credit - they all fought each other multiple times and gave us exciting, competitive scraps. Understand the business model for the little guys was different, but can only wish there was the same inertia to match today’s bigger names with each other. No Crawford/Spence this year was very disappointing (although not surprising to me). I’m actually impressed that Haymon/Ellerbie signed off on Tank/Garcia for next year. But to me, that’s not a real super fight. Rather, a beginning to a long-overdue “sorting-out” at 135.

My boxing XMAS wish for next year - unification/P4P superfights at Heavy, Lightheavy and Welter. Monster jump to 122 (no one below that weight capable of standing up to him). Welter young guns (Ennis and Ortiz) fight each other (I’d settle for activity against live bodies). Same with the Middleweights (Charlos, Munguia, Tszyu, Andrade). Give me Loma/Shakur with winner against Haney for his 135 Titles. Canelo retirement tour and Teo Lopez get’s his head on straight and back in the mix. Lol - I’d settle for a third of that list….

Happy Holidays to all my fellow Cuse Boxing fans. Great to see the football team bowling and let’s hope JB get’s the hoops team on track this season…..

 

[SWC75]

I just watched the Teofimo Lopez-Sandor Martin and Terrence Crawford-David Avanesyan fight, one on my TV in one room, the other on my computer and an adjacent room. Under the circumstances I felt I couldn't score the fights so I'll just record my observations and reactions here.

Lopez was the aggressor throughout his fight, and he got in some good shots but also had trouble finding the elusive, counter-punching Martin, who had pretty good hand speed. Martin suffered a broken nose on an unintentional head but in the first round and could no longer breathe through it still went the distance, (10 rounds). Martin evens cored a flash knockdown in the second round. It seemed to me that Lopez won the rest of the rounds by being busier and more aggressive. The commentators thought the decision could go either way and Martin was upset when he lost. On judge had it for him, 95-94. Another had it 96-93 for Lopez and the third had it 97-92 for Lopez. That seemed the best card to me, but the commentators were shocked by it. martin had said before the fight that his big advantage is that he took boxing seriously and trained hard while Lopez "did interviews and went shopping". Maybe Teo is having a hard time refinding the dedication he had when he beat Lomachenko, but I thought he won this one comfortably.

Crawford faced a tough Russian named David Avanesyan who kept advancing toward him despite eating a steady diet of leather from various angles from the guy I think is the best fighter in the world. He didn't seem too effected by all those punches, leading me to wonder if Crawford had lost some power going into the full welterweight division, (I wondered the same thing about Lopez fighting junior welters.) But Crawford stopped moving away from Avanesyan and started trading power punches with him. He absorbed some shots but answered with interest and the Russians' machine started to malfunction as his face started to show wear and tear. Bud found the uppercut to be a good weapon and in the 6th round he followed on with a right cross that flattened his opponent for the win. You wondered what would happen if the guy coming toward him for those six rounds had been Errol Spence.

 

[ssbriefcase]

I just watched the Teofimo Lopez-Sandor Martin and Terrence Crawford-David Avanesyan fight, one on my TV in one room, the other on my computer and an adjacent room. Under the circumstances I felt I couldn't score the fights so I'll just record my observations and reactions here.

Lopez was the aggressor throughout his fight, and he got in some good shots but also had trouble finding the elusive, counter-punching Martin, who had pretty good hand speed. Martin suffered a broken nose on an unintentional head but in the first round and could no longer breathe through it still went the distance, (10 rounds). Martin evens cored a flash knockdown in the second round. It seemed to me that Lopez won the rest of the rounds by being busier and more aggressive. The commentators thought the decision could go either way and Martin was upset when he lost. On judge had it for him, 95-94. Another had it 96-93 for Lopez and the third had it 97-92 for Lopez. That seemed the best card to me, but the commentators were shocked by it. martin had said before the fight that his big advantage is that he took boxing seriously and trained hard while Lopez "did interviews and went shopping". Maybe Teo is having a hard time refinding the dedication he had when he beat Lomachenko, but I thought he won this one comfortably.

Crawford faced a tough Russian named David Avanesyan who kept advancing toward him despite eating a steady diet of leather from various angles from the guy I think is the best fighter in the world. He didn't seem too effected by all those punches, leading me to wonder if Crawford had lost some power going into the full welterweight division, (I wondered the same thing about Lopez fighting junior welters.) But Crawford stopped moving away from Avanesyan and started trading power punches with him. He absorbed some shots but answered with interest and the Russians' machine started to malfunction as his face started to show wear and tear. Bud found the uppercut to be a good weapon and in the 6th round he followed on with a right cross that flattened his opponent for the win. You wondered what would happen if the guy coming toward him for those six rounds had been Errol Spence.

Agree 100% on Teo. He was the aggressor, although mostly only one punch interactions, he had a hard time avoiding the check right Martin was hitting him with. Martin is good, but Tim Bradley was in love with him, and way overboard imo. Teo definitely won that fight and it wasn't as close as Bradley made it seem. I didn't get to see Crawford and didn't want to. He fought another opponent everyone knew he'd dominate. Avanesyan was ranked no higher than 6 in the division by any sanctioning body. I'm over Crawford not fighting anyone. I've read from both sides on why him and Spence didn't get the deal done. All I can do is see who they both do actually fight.

There were some other "names" on cards last night. Keyshawn Davis Lightweight won on UD, as did up and coming heavyweight Jared Anderson 2nd rnd KO. Neither's opponent was anything special at all.

 

[SWC75]

Agree 100% on Teo. He was the aggressor, although mostly only one punch interactions, he had a hard time avoiding the check right Martin was hitting him with. Martin is good, but Tim Bradley was in love with him, and way overboard imo. Teo definitely won that fight and it wasn't as close as Bradley made it seem. I didn't get to see Crawford and didn't want to. He fought another opponent everyone knew he'd dominate. Avanesyan was ranked no higher than 6 in the division by any sanctioning body. I'm over Crawford not fighting anyone. I've read from both sides on why him and Spence didn't get the deal done. All I can do is see who they both do actually fight.

There were some other "names" on cards last night. Keyshawn Davis Lightweight won on UD, as did up and coming heavyweight Jared Anderson 2nd rnd KO. Neither's opponent was anything special at all.

Yes, Davis and Anderson are part of the next wave of contenders who will make the next few years interesting.

 

[JAXCUSE]

Yes, Davis and Anderson are part of the next wave of contenders who will make the next few years interesting.

TR has some fine young talent (Zayas, Anderson, Davis). Like you and ssbriefcase noted, hope they are matched more aggressively soon. I’ve noticed that Zayas replaced Berlanga as Bob’s “showcase talent from PR.” Wonder if we see Berlanga again next year….

I actually scored the Lopez-Martin fight a draw. Ref missed the 2nd knockdown (thought Teo talked him out of it). While styles were a bad matchup, thought Lopez fought a poor fight. Just followed the cute boxer around looking for the home run. No jab, few combos, no body attack (until the last two rds) nor strategy to close distance. Lopez seems troubled by opponent size at 140. And needs a trainer to help him break guys down (Daddy ain’t cutting it). Maybe a sport psychologist to regain confidence (body language looked like a loser during post-fight, skipped the presser). Nowhere near the complete fighter we saw take down Loma a few years ago. Kambosos loss (maybe the Loma win….) wrecked the kid. Needs an overhaul. I may not be the only one with this opinion. Saw a cameo with Arum after the fight and he essentially said the same thing. Hope Teo get’s it together again and is able to realize his enormous potential.

Crawford fight was nothing but a payday. I thought Crawford looked rusty early (understandable - only fights once per year….). Took a few rds to time/figure Avanesyan out, but then sat down in the pocket and thumped him. Bud moves from orthodox to southpaw more effortlessly than anyone I’ve ever seen. Highlight uppercut-hook KO sequence. Too bad only a few thousand watched the performance. Hope this is just a tuneup for a Spence showdown next year (but have my doubts - PBC wants PPV/contract control and Bud wants promotional independence). They are both facing Father Time. Would be a shame if these two never settle things in the ring.

 

[SWC75]

TR has some fine young talent (Zayas, Anderson, Davis). Like you and ssbriefcase noted, hope they are matched more aggressively soon. I’ve noticed that Zayas replaced Berlanga as Bob’s “showcase talent from PR.” Wonder if we see Berlanga again next year….

I actually scored the Lopez-Martin fight a draw. Ref missed the 2nd knockdown (thought Teo talked him out of it). While styles were a bad matchup, thought Lopez fought a poor fight. Just followed the cute boxer around looking for the home run. No jab, few combos, no body attack (until the last two rds) nor strategy to close distance. Lopez seems troubled by opponent size at 140. And needs a trainer to help him break guys down (Daddy ain’t cutting it). Maybe a sport psychologist to regain confidence (body language looked like a loser during post-fight, skipped the presser). Nowhere near the complete fighter we saw take down Loma a few years ago. Kambosos loss (maybe the Loma win….) wrecked the kid. Needs an overhaul. I may not be the only one with this opinion. Saw a cameo with Arum after the fight and he essentially said the same thing. Hope Teo get’s it together again and is able to realize his enormous potential.

Crawford fight was nothing but a payday. I thought Crawford looked rusty early (understandable - only fights once per year….). Took a few rds to time/figure Avanesyan out, but then sat down in the pocket and thumped him. Bud moves from orthodox to southpaw more effortlessly than anyone I’ve ever seen. Highlight uppercut-hook KO sequence. Too bad only a few thousand watched the performance. Hope this is just a tuneup for a Spence showdown next year (but have my doubts - PBC wants PPV/contract control and Bud wants promotional independence). They are both facing Father Time. Would be a shame if these two never settle things in the ring.

That's boxing's biggest problem. they don't give the public what they want - when they want it. It's either Mayweather-Pacquiao five years too late or Wilder-Joshua not at all.

 

[JAXCUSE]

That's boxing's biggest problem. they don't give the public what they want - when they want it. It's either Mayweather-Pacquiao five years too late or Wilder-Joshua not at all.

Agree. The “they” is the fusion of management, promotional groups and network propriety today.
Makes me long for the 70’s and 80’s. The power brokers in the sport were the Sanctioning Bodies. Corrupt as hell (made FIFA look ethical), but fight results, rankings, promoters and TV could compel championship matchups and big fights. HBO used their budget and subscription reach to push this dynamic thru arguably the sport’s 2nd ‘Golden Age’ (50’s) of viewership.

I’m afraid the current business model is killing the sport. UFC is the opposite (for MMA). Dana owns all the top talent, matches them aggressively, then discards them…. But the public sees big fights.

I blame PBC more than the others, but TR and DAZN are culpable as well. Sanctioning bodies are meaningless (8 rd NABF “Title Fights” for the prospects Sat night on ESPN - Lol). And the networks are in competition with each other. Too much risk to viewership if say a PBC flagship loses to say a DAZN guy. I’m convinced that is why Haymon won’t make Spence/Crawford or Tank/Haney or Shakur without extreme future option contractual concessions. PBC is dead (in current form) if Tank or Spence lose to someone from another stable. Makes me wonder what Golden Boy (Garcia) signed away to make the Tank fight for next year…. I’ll believe it when it happens….

 

[SWC75]

Inoue captures undisputed bantamweight title

With an 11th-round KO of Paul Butler in Tokyo, Naoya Inoue on Tuesday became the first undisputed champion from Asia in the four-belt era that began in 2004.

www.espn.com

I love Inoue but am glad I missed this bout, which unified the bantamweight title. The fight shows Inoue's one weakness: now that he's dispensed with Donaire, he has no real opposition anymore at that level - no potential for a big, attention-getting fight. it's just the bum-of-the-month club.

So how far up the ladder can he go? Can he win the featherweight title? Can he take on the lightweights? Inoue-Stevenson? Manny Pacquiao was the WBC flyweight champion in 1998. He's 5-5 1/2. Inoue is 5-5. He's 29. Manny was a featherweight champ at age 29.

 

[JAXCUSE]

Inoue captures undisputed bantamweight title

With an 11th-round KO of Paul Butler in Tokyo, Naoya Inoue on Tuesday became the first undisputed champion from Asia in the four-belt era that began in 2004.

www.espn.com

I love Inoue but am glad I missed this bout, which unified the bantamweight title. The fight shows Inoue's one weakness: now that he's dispensed with Donaire, he has no real opposition anymore at that level - no potential for a big, attention-getting fight. it's just the bum-of-the-month club.

So how far up the ladder can he go? Can he win the featherweight title? Can he take on the lightweights? Inoue-Stevenson? Manny Pacquiao was the WBC flyweight champion in 1998. He's 5-5 1/2. Inoue is 5-5. He's 29. Manny was a featherweight champ at age 29.

I suffered thru it live at 0 dark thirty AM. ESPN production was poor. Butler was there to last, not to fight. You made the right decision….

TR was pushing Monster to 122 (for the reasons you identified - no competition) all along. This Butler unification was just a stay busy payday. The Champs at Jr Feather are Stephen Fulton (PBC) and Murodjon Akhmadaliev (DAZN). Both credible. Inoue dominates them both (IMO), but promotional politics will probably prevent the matchups.

Which takes Monster to Featherweight (126). Bob “controls” that division and believe that is where Inoue is headed next year. Saw an interview with his team and they seemed to indicate such. Monster vs Navarette or vs Lopez In 2023. Sign me up…..

I felt (years ago) that Arum was looking at Loma-Inoue as one of his (potential) super fights. Loma never really comfortable at 135 (more a natural 130) and Monster didn’t have any competition below 126. Inoue’ s handlers didn’t seem interested in jumping rapidly. Think the window passed for this one.

I think Naoya tops out before 135. Just my opinion. While there are similarities, Inoue (physically) doesn’t have the “room to grow” that Manny did (in the legs). But who knows? Manny was just a freak of nature. Most guys lose their pega (at least the one punch effectiveness against bigger opponents) as they move up. Manny never really did…. It will be interesting to see if Monster’s power and strength hold In a similar capacity. That will determine how far he can go….

 

[JAXCUSE]

Beterbiev-Yarde was a good action shoot-out this afternoon.
Thought Artur would get rid of the Brit early, but Anthony displayed more heart and toughness than seen previously.
Maybe I’m overly critical, but saw some evidence of “Father Time” in this Beterbiev performance (reflexes).
Saw an interview with Arum. Said that a Bivol matchup would probably occur in 23.
Hope Uncle Bob doesn’t “overmarinate” this one. Bivol-Beterbiev is among the three best 50-50 fights that can be made right now.

 

[ssbriefcase]

Beterbiev-Yarde was a good action shoot-out this afternoon.
Thought Artur would get rid of the Brit early, but Anthony displayed more heart and toughness than seen previously.
Maybe I’m overly critical, but saw some evidence of “Father Time” in this Beterbiev performance (reflexes).
Saw an interview with Arum. Said that a Bivol matchup would probably occur in 23.
Hope Uncle Bob doesn’t “overmarinate” this one. Bivol-Beterbiev is among the three best 50-50 fights that can be made right now.

As I've done in the past, I missed it. I hate when I don't pay attention to it being across the pond. I even reupped ESPN+ as I start and stop my sub based on if there's a decent fight. That said is it worth a watch?

 

[SWC75]

Beterbiev-Yarde was a good action shoot-out this afternoon.
Thought Artur would get rid of the Brit early, but Anthony displayed more heart and toughness than seen previously.
Maybe I’m overly critical, but saw some evidence of “Father Time” in this Beterbiev performance (reflexes).
Saw an interview with Arum. Said that a Bivol matchup would probably occur in 23.
Hope Uncle Bob doesn’t “overmarinate” this one. Bivol-Beterbiev is among the three best 50-50 fights that can be made right now.

Why we might have to wait until 2024 to see Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol in a must-see matchup

Artur Beterbiev needs to fight Dmitry Bivol to crown the undisputed light heavyweight champion. Anthony Yarde showed he is just behind the two best with his performance on Saturday.

www.espn.com

My choices for the fights I'd most like to see in each full division in 2023:

Divisional rankings: Smith shakes up middleweights with upset of Eubank Jr.

Heavy: Fury-Usyk (actually I'd still like to see Wilder-Joshua to see what would have happened but that would be on the undercard now.)

Cruiser: I've honestly never heard of any of these guys so let's have a knock-off fight between the two undefeated guys, Okolie and Opetaia.

Light-Heavy: Obviously Bivol-Beterviev.

Middle: Canelo Alvarez vs. a Charlo. Any Charlo. Both? (Both at once?)

Welter: Crawford-Spence (Hopefully the first of a trilogy)

Light: Haney-Davis

Feather: Stevenson-Vargas?

Bantam: Naoye Inoue vs. someone who can fight.

Fly: Sunny Edwards vs. Knockout CP Freshmart (name value)

What are the chances any of those fights happen?

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As I've done in the past, I missed it. I hate when I don't pay attention to it being across the pond. I even reupped ESPN+ as I start and stop my sub based on if there's a decent fight. That said is it worth a watch?

For sure worth a replay watch.
Good give and take action fight. 4th and 5th rds (especially) high contact.
Judges (Britain) actually had Yarde ahead at the stoppage. Homer scoring.
I had Beterbiev ahead by a couple of points. But Yarde hung in there and gave it a real credible go.

Beterbiev’s conditioning, volume/pressure and combination punching (technique) were the difference.
But thought the Russian’s hands (and head mvmt) looked slower than in previous fights. And got clipped by some big shots that really seemed to have effect.

 

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Why we might have to wait until 2024 to see Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol in a must-see matchup

Artur Beterbiev needs to fight Dmitry Bivol to crown the undisputed light heavyweight champion. Anthony Yarde showed he is just behind the two best with his performance on Saturday.

www.espn.com

My choices for the fights I'd most like to see in each full division in 2023:

Divisional rankings: Smith shakes up middleweights with upset of Eubank Jr.

Heavy: Fury-Usyk (actually I'd still like to see Wilder-Joshua to see what would have happened but that would be on the undercard now.)

Cruiser: I've honestly never heard of any of these guys so let's have a knock-off fight between the two undefeated guys, Okolie and Opetaia.

Light-Heavy: Obviously Bivol-Beterviev.

Middle: Canelo Alvarez vs. a Charlo. Any Charlo. Both? (Both at once?)

Welter: Crawford-Spence (Hopefully the first of a trilogy)

Light: Haney-Davis

Feather: Stevenson-Vargas?

Bantam: Naoye Inoue vs. someone who can fight.

Fly: Sunny Edwards vs. Knockout CP Freshmart (name value)

What are the chances any of those fights happen?

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Monster and Fulton is signed and scheduled (April I think) at 122. On paper, really intriguing fight.

I think Fury-Usyk get’s made this year.

Rest of the lineup - not optimistic….

I think Canelo goes after Bivol again by year’s end (that’s why Beterbiev unification pushed to next year - too bad). Don’t think Saul cares much about the current crop of Super Middles (Benevidez, Plant - matched later this Spring) or the Charlo’s. In a way, I kinda agree (eye test aside). None of the current crop of 160-168 have beaten anyone elite. Or even demonstrate a willingness to fight each other (until now). An aside, might get Charlo-Tszyu later this summer. Maybe GGG-Andrade (if the Kazak doesn’t retire). TR shucked Berlanga from their stable, so maybe he signs with DAZN or PBC (if they want him). Promotional monopolies (PBC and DAZN) haven’t shown willingness to match outside their respective tents at these categories yet.

I think PBC is avoiding Crawford at 147 (want too many future options if Terrance wins), so Haymon is matching Spence with Thurman in April at 156. He can then match winner with younger Charlo and retain contractural control of winner. Freezing Crawford out…. I’m no insider, but heard Crawford was negotiating with Golden Boy now (Oscar). Could get an Ortiz or Ennis if he does. Bottom Line - no Crawford-Spence this year (IMO). Too bad. I think legacies are tarnished already. They are both getting old (trilogy improbable). If they do ever meet, it’s already approaching Pac-Mayweather “past due date” territory. Network/promotional monopolies are killing the sport right now.

Assuming Haney get’s by Loma this Spring (interesting fight), I think Bob is angling to line up Stevenson with the winner. TR contractually holds allot of the talent and all the belts at 135 (Haney, Stevenson, Loma, Lopez, youngster Keyshawn Davis). All Tank (PBC) really had left was Garcia (big name opposition). And I think Garcia is the one who really made the fight (gave up allot in the negotiation). Davis needs to beat Ryan or he risks being ”frozen out” of the Division (promotionally).

I like Bam Rodriguez vs Estrada or Choclatito at Fly…. Young vs old.

In sum, think there will be some good matchups this year. But “Superfights” not so sure….

 

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Navarette-Wilson was a decent banger tonight (ESPN). Both down, a “long count“ in favor of the house fighter, fine effort by the unknown guy, (out of shape) favorite closed the show.

Navarette hadn’t fought in over a year and looked fat and slow at Jr Light. Far cry from his best performance. Definitely underestimated the Aussie underdog and almost paid for it. Needs to go back down to Featherweight.

Barbosa-Pedroza prelim was competitive as well. Think Barbosa has hit his ceiling. Arum is probably eyeing him for a Teo Lopez matchup later in the year.

My only complaint of this Friday Night Card (which started and finished on time for once) - Tessitore needs to stop screaming during the telecast. Man I miss the old pro fight callers like Tim Ryan, Gil Clancy, Angelo Dundee and Jim Lampley…

 

[ssbriefcase]

Navarette-Wilson was a decent banger tonight (ESPN). Both down, a “long count“ in favor of the house fighter, fine effort by the unknown guy, (out of shape) favorite closed the show.

Navarette hadn’t fought in over a year and looked fat and slow at Jr Light. Far cry from his best performance. Definitely underestimated the Aussie underdog and almost paid for it. Needs to go back down to Featherweight.

Barbosa-Pedroza prelim was competitive as well. Think Barbosa has hit his ceiling. Arum is probably eyeing him for a Teo Lopez matchup later in the year.

My only complaint of this Friday Night Card (which started and finished on time for once) - Tessitore needs to stop screaming during the telecast. Man I miss the old pro fight callers like Tim Ryan, Gil Clancy, Angelo Dundee and Jim Lampley…

Yeah the Navarette v Wilson was a good one, I was happily surprised. I wish I was more excited looking forward this year, although there's a few good ones on paper.

 

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Two really good fights on DAZN today - Wood/Lara and Nery/Hovhannisyan. Kinda made my sports day after the Basketball and LAX setbacks earlier.

Lara pinned a come-from-behind one punch KO on Wood. Sudden turnabout from the guy who was losing - similar to what Wood did to Conlan about six months ago. Lara is a thumper and could be a potential future matchup for Monster (assuming he disposes of Fulton and moves up to 126).

Nery and Hovhannisyan went at it for 11 hard rds before the ref pulled Hovhannisyan’s card for the night. Kinda reminded me (in a way) of those old Felt Forum, Spectrum or Olympic Auditorium barn burners between guys from different parts of town. Fight had that nasty, gritty and gutsy type of feel to it. Nery has a high motor and very durable. Would be a good future opponent for Inoue as well.

Hearn raised the DAZN monthly subscription rate significantly, so not sure I’m gonna be watching them regularly in the future.

But, they put on a fine double-header today.

 

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Fight game not at the top of “sports attention span” this weekend (JB Retirement drama, LAX getting nipped by Hopkins, Hoops Conference Tournaments).

But, thought Timmy Tszyu looked decent against the “PBC Jr Middleweight Gatekeeper” Harrison down under last night.

Probably the best (most talented) son of an great fighter (his old man is in the HOF) I’ve observed since Floyd…

Style reminds me of his dad a bit - very economical punch selection but very strong and closes/controls the pocket. Straight-up (you’d think he was vulnerable) but rolls with counter rights nicely.

PBC is lining up a Charlo/Tszyu matchup for later in the summer (shoulda been last night - Charlo busted his mitt in training). If “ordinary Charlo” (doesn’t jab) shows up, I think Kostya’s boy gives him a rough night….

 

[ssbriefcase]

Fight game not at the top of “sports attention span” this weekend (JB Retirement drama, LAX getting nipped by Hopkins, Hoops Conference Tournaments).

But, thought Timmy Tszyu looked decent against the “PBC Jr Middleweight Gatekeeper” Harrison down under last night.

Probably the best (most talented) son of an great fighter (his old man is in the HOF) I’ve observed since Floyd…

Style reminds me of his dad a bit - very economical punch selection but very strong and closes/controls the pocket. Straight-up (you’d think he was vulnerable) but rolls with counter rights nicely.

PBC is lining up a Charlo/Tszyu matchup for later in the summer (shoulda been last night - Charlo busted his mitt in training). If “ordinary Charlo” (doesn’t jab) shows up, I think Kostya’s boy gives him a rough night….

Yeah thought Tszyu looked good, pressure fighter, decent power. I was more surprised how inactive and worn down even earlier than usual, Harrison was. If Tszyu trains right, he can beat Charlo.