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Sunday, December 29, 2013

Marcos Maidana UD 12 Adrien Broner is SPB's "Upset of the Year"

Marcos Maidana shuts Broners Mouth

Adrien "The Problem" Broner's fight with Marcos "El Chino" Maidana was his second in the welterweight division. Most, if not all, boxing writers, and experts predicted that the then former undefeated boxer from Cincinnati would easily outpoint the hard-hitting Argentinean. And Broner would successfully defend the welterweight crown he took from Paulie Malignaggi in his first fight as a welter.

However, I'm among those few boxing fans who predicted that: Marcos Maidana will destroy the 23 year old trash talking Broner. I believed that Maidana was too strong, too powerful for Broner, who was still fighting at lightweight in February of this year.

[You may like also: http://theboxingdiary.com/2013/12/omar-figueroa-vs-nihito-arakawa-is-spbs-fight-of-the-year.html]

Broner skipped 140 pound division to join his "big brother" Floyd Mayweather Jr. in the 147 pound division.

"El Chino" pounds Broner from the get-go and eventually scored a big knock down in the second round.

Maidana floored again Broner in round 8 -- an assurance that he's well ahead of the scorecards. And after the final bell, the scorecards revealed what exactly transpired in the ring. Maidana won via unanimous after 12 rounds of action. Broner walked out the ring after hearing the result.

With the win, Maidana is now included in the mix of fighters that could be potential opponent for Mayweather's third fight on May 2014, under Showtime's 6-fight mega contract. Maidana's big win against Broner might derail Amir Khan's target: to get a fight with Mayweather Jr.

Khan seemed to be the front runner as Floyd's next opponent.  Although the big question is: What Khan will bring to the table against Mayweather Jr.?

The "upset" made Broner the headline of every boxing website with their respective version of Broner's online meme.

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Happy Holidays dear readers

 

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Dear Readers,

Year 2013 has been a very meaningful year for this tiny blog -- shuttlepenboxing.com (SPB). It's in this year that SPB made dramatic changes for your better browsing experience. Early this year SPB got its domain name registered, and in October SPB also got its hosting with the help of a generous friend Mr. Agustin -- a seasoned blogger and online affiliate marketer that made the hosting of this blog possible. You can read his work and his experience being shared as a blogger and affiliate marketer in his blog at Zalds.com

It's in this year also that SPB changed the entire look and feel of this blog by shifting from Blogger platform to Wordpress. It was a very tough job to say the least, as yours truly isn't familiar with this processes. But it's the love of the sport that keeps me accomplishing things which are beyond imagination that I could do.

Although, after all the improvements and changes that I made on this blog, I don't received any feedback from your end as readers. If you're one of those readers that keep on coming and visiting this blog please raise your right hand. I mean hit the keyboard and say something in the comment section for your feedback. It's in your feedback that I can do the right move to make things better for this blog. Anyway, if you're too busy to do so, well then let me say thank you for coming and reading, and let me hear from you some other time.  Let me take this opportunity also to wish you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

Best Regards,

Retech Son

Monday, December 23, 2013

Mayweather: "This is my Christmas card to the world... Happy Sleepy Holidays zzzzzz"

Floyd Mayweather Jr. posted on his Facebook account his homemade Christmas card to the world with photos mocking Manny Pacquiao's devastating knockout defeat against Juan Manual Marquez a year ago. Mayweather Jr. said "Happy Sleepy Holidays zzzzzzz".

What I understand in this post of Mayweather is that: he still think about a possible fight with Pacquiao. Most of us are celebrating the holiday season with our respective families, but Floyd's mind is still busy thinking about Pacquiao. Instead of posting something about the spirit of Christmas Floyd is busy editing the below photos. Although he insisted that he will never fight Pacquiao if Arum is involved, but I think he still considers Pacquiao as a possible opponent, in his third fight under Showtime 6-fight mega deal, in May 2014.

If you look at it, if there's still no other viable opponent other than Pacquiao that could generate the biggest numbers in revenue. Rumored fighters like Khan or Maidana to be his next opponent still had no match against Pacquiao business-wise.

If Mayweather-Pacquiao will ever happen, it should be on May 2014 or never.

Come on Floyd, stop this childish act, and instead do something to make the fight happen and just let Manny give to Arum what he is due as a promoter.




Friday, December 20, 2013

Omar Figueroa vs. Nihito Arakawa is SPB's fight of the year

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Few days from now we'll say goodbye to 2013 and say hello for the coming year 2014. Boxing media will soon announce their Boxing awards and it will include the "Fight of the Year" (FOTY) award. For SBP, Figueroa vs. Arakawa is SPB's "Fight of the Year" winner.

The date was July 27, 2013 when undefeated Omar Figueroa 22-0-1 (KO 17), met Japanese Nihito Arakawa 24-3-1 (KO 16), in the ring at AT&T Center, San Antonio Texas. Boxing purists and casual fans like to see action in the ring.

Boxing is called "boxing", and not "fighting", but name the award "Fight of the Year", not "Boxing of the Year". So I pick Figueroa vs. Arakawa as SPB's Fight of the Year because this absolutely a fight… hell of a fight, not boxing.

Figueroa and Arakawa ignore boxing's idea of hitting-without-getting-hit. In the get-go both men didn't put any gap between them and fought head to head.

Both men absorbed each other best shot and were more than willing take every shot than making a step back.

I can't imagine how these two men able to survive until the twelve rounds in such a savage fight.

I salute to both men for their ability for keep the same pace they started from the first round all the way to the final bell.

They could not survive the amount of beating they received from each other, if these men didn’t devote their time in preparation. Somebody should have kissed the canvas.

They showed up in the ring in the best shape they can be.

There's no need for me to hit 350 words, why I pick this fight to be the Fight of the Year. If you haven't watched it, hit the play button below. And if you did start writing in the comment section if you agree my pick. If not, then, let me know what fight do you have in mind?

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

How to dodge 21 punches in 10 seconds

I'm reminded of how great Muhammad Ali was in this animated gif that went viral on the internet. Muhammad Ali dodging the punches of Michael Dokes in 1977.

Maravilloso!

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Sunday, December 15, 2013

Maidana shuts Broner's mouth

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San Antonio, Texas -- Marcos Rene "El Chino" Maidana of Argentina completely silenced the trash talking Cincinnati, Ohio resident, Adrien "The Problem" Broner. The supposed "heir apparent" of Floyd Mayweather Jr. walked-out from the ring after the scores of 115-110, 116-109, and 117-109 were announced on Maidana's favor at the Alamodome, on Saturday night.

As what I predicted here: on my preview for this bout, Maidana didn't need any single round for testing what Broner is all about. In the get-go Maidana unloaded bombs after bombs towards Broner.

Although, Broner was able to hold his ground and finished the opening round and were rolling both shoulders while making way to his corner suggesting that he was just warming up. It's evident that it will be a problematic night for "The Problem".

In the second round Maidana was again all over Broner, throwing more schooled aggression. A systematic combination of punches that were shifting landing zones: from body to the head or head then to the body, this was set-up by his left jabs. Maidana then landed a crushing left hand that sent Broner to the floor. Broner seemed hurt and wobbly.  He was shocked being put on the floor. He got up and tried to tie up to stop Maidana's onslaught.

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The use of left jab was a notable arsenal added in Maidana's aggression under the tutelage of his new trainer, Robert Garcia. It's also the jab that brought problems to "The Problem" against jabbaholic Malignaggi on their previous fight.

In the third and fourth round, Broner tried to use his ala Mayweather-shoulder-roll, that somewhat slowed down Maidana's attack.  But still, Maidana's left hook found marks on Broner's right side of the face.

In the sixth through seventh round Broner was able to made Maidana fought on the back foot and countering a little bit more, but not enough to totally back Maidana up. When "El Chino" started to fire heavy shots again, Broner would held and pushed Maidana. This made referee Lawrence Cole warned Broner several times for pushing.

In round eight, again Broner visited the floor. He was able to get back on his feet, but man… he was too shaky. Maidana eager to finished his prey, which is in the verge of collapse, lunged in and fire finishing blows. But Broner was quick to tie-up Maidana. With Maidana sensing a knockout victory pushed his head up that referee Cole ruled as a head-butt. Then Broner showcased his acting skills that turned out to be the lousiest flop I've ever seen of an athlete, next to this one.

Referee Cole was sold to this act and signaled a point deduction to each judges at ringside against Maidana.

In the 10th round, Broner's corner made it clear that he needed a knockout to win. But when Broner tried to step-up his own offense, Maidana would fought back with harder shots that would stop Broner on his track.

Broner finished the fight, but with his confident not intact, as to what the outcome would be, while Maidana raised his hands confident of victory. As Broner heard the scores, it's like a zipper that slowly shut his mouth completely and leaves the same arena that supposed to the venue of his post fight antics.

Merry Christmas everyone!

And oh! here's Floyd Mayweather's message for his little brother, Adrien Broner




Saturday, December 14, 2013

Broner vs. Maidana Under-card Results: Thurman, Santa Cruz, Shumenov wins

Alamodome, San Antonio, Texas, USA -- It was a remarkable event that Showtime put together to end this year. And it was indeed a bountiful season gift for all of boxing fans. Here are the under-card results.

Keith "One Time" Thurman vs. Jesus Soto-Karass, welterweight title - Thurman knocks out Soto-Karass in Round 9.

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Keith Thurman now 22-0-0 (KO 20) remained undefeated knocking out Soto-Karass in the ninth round. In the fifth Thurman also sent Soto-Karass to the floor with left hook and I thought that was it, but wheww.. Soto-Karass got up and continue to march forward towards Thurman. In the sixth until the time of the stoppage, Thurman tried to boxed and move a little too much. The battle tested Soto-Karass now dropped to 28-9-3 (KO 18) is just in front of him. However in the ninth round, the referee didn't bother to count, stopped the fight after Soto-Karass kissed again the canvass. In the post fight interview Thurman told "I'm here to give the best fight in the welterweight division". Good payday awaits for Thurman as welterweight division packed with the most marketable potential opponent for him.

Leo Santa Cruz vs. Cesar Seda, super bantamweight title - Santa Cruz wins UD 12 to retain title.

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Leo Santa Cruz improved his record to 26-0-1 (KO 15) remained undefeated and retained title after a unanimous victory against an opponent who came out not just to fight, but to win as well in Cesar Seda, now dropped to 25-2-0 (KO 17) . It was a classic toe-to-toe and back and forth action between fighters that hail from a country that have s storied rivalry in boxing. Mexico vs. Puerto Rico. In the get-go it's evident that Santa Cruz had a superior hand-speed, winning exchanges. He has answer to whatever combinations that Seda thrown. Santa Cruz won to the tune of 116-111, 115-112, and 117-110, which I think the two cards were too wide. I have it 115-113 though. Santa Cruz said he wants to come back in February possibly and do one or two title defenses at 122 pounds.

Beibut Shumenov vs. Tamas Kovacs, light heavyweight title - Shumenov stops Kovacs, remain undefeated.

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Beibut Shumenuv now improves his record to 14-1-0 (KO 10) retains title after scoring a knocking down Tamas Kovacs in the third round. The referee waived it off when Shumenov landed a solid right hand while Kovacs was on the corner. Prior to that, in very first round Shumenov dropped Kovacs late in the first round by a powerful left hook, Kovacs able to stand up and bouncing on his feet as the referee doing the mandatory count. In the second round Kovacs tried to stay close by clinching every time Shumenov got in, but a body shot dropped him again while in a clinch.

Bernard Hopkins could be next for Shumenov. Two titles for B-Hop against Shumenov, smart move by GBP signing in Shumenov.

All photos credit goes to Esther Lin.

Friday, December 13, 2013

Adrien Broner vs. Marcos Maidana: Weigh in live streaming

Adrien Broner vs. Marcos Maidana: Preview and prediction

Broner and Maidana

Here's my preview and prediction of the fight between Adrien “The Problem” Broner, 27-0-0 (KO 22) vs. Marcos “Chino” Maidana 34-3-0 (KO 31) on Saturday, 14 December, at the Alamodome, San Antonio, Texas, USA on SHOWTIME EXTREME®

Broner, 24, is a talented young fighter; few boxing pundits perceived him to be the apparent 'heir' of Floyd Mayweather Jr., once the pound-for-pound kingpin hang his boxing gloves for good. Well, I think Broner had what it takes to be like Floyd Mayweather Jr. talent wise. He has sound defensive skill and has decent speed too. He has a raw talent to say the least that could be sharpened as the young fighter from Cincinnati gain more experience in the ring.

In the opposite corner, Maidana, 30, is tough guy that love to come forward and throw heavy bombs. Maidana's seek-and-destroy style is similar to his countryman Lucas Matthysse, a style, adored by knockout-thirsty boxing fans. What makes Maidana so effective with his aggression is his toughness. Even if he'll receive punishment, while coming forward… man he'll keep on coming because he can take a punch. Maidana is a tough guy that punches hard.

I can see that this match-up is about talent/skills vs. toughness/aggression.

On Broner and Maidana's previous fights.

Broner is coming from a not-so-impressive victory against feather-fisted Paulie Malignaggi. I say not-so-impressive because, without taking anything away from Malignaggi, as a fighter, Broner was expected to show a much better performance than what he actually did against Malignaggi. I mean many boxing experts believed that Broner could knockout Malignaggi. But instead, the recently crowned king of Brooklyn gave Broner so many problems in the first half of the fight, and only to win via decision.

The only question that time for Broner is his power: If he can carry it to the welterweight division. Broner skipped 140 pound from 135 pound and fought Paulie at welter. Although, Broner clearly landed the crispier shots, his speed and timing was somewhat off at that time. Broner have been bothered by Malignaggi's series of jabs, that he need six or more rounds to figure it out.

Marcos Maidana found success mostly on fighters who like also to slug it out. But have difficulties against boxer like Devon Alexander, and fighters that known for speed, like Amir Khan. But these defeats we're 12round decisions. This means he could be out-boxed, but it's least to outlast Maidana. In last three fights, Maidana scored knockouts against Josesito Lopez, Angel Martinez and Jesus Soto-Karass. These fighters wanted to fight toe-to-toe.

My prediction

I think there will be no testing rounds for Maidana here. He will jump immediately into Broner and throw heavy punches right away to the body and see how Broner will react to it. And I think this will be Broner's first time to encounter as hard-nosed as Maidana.

He will take cover to his defensive shell and slowly fought back in the rounds 4 to five. But Maidana's relentless aggression and superior power will be too much for him. Maidana will have no problem absorbing a somewhat diminished Broner power at welter, although lethal at lightweight. Maidana will keep on coming and coming catching up a weary Broner, wherein speed becomes irrelevant factor in favor of Broner.

Why because I think Broner will tire on this fight because Maidana will let him fight every seconds, every minute of every round. And it seems to me that Broner lost a lot of weight during the training, because he allow himself to balloon in between fights. There's something wrong about his discipline outside the ring.

As what I've mentioned above that: this fight is about talent/skills vs. toughness/aggression. And I picked Maidana's toughness and aggression to prevail over the talent and skills of Broner. I've got Maidana by KO/TKO between rounds 8 to 10.

Thursday, December 12, 2013

[Live Stream] Broner vs. Maidana Final Press Conf. 2PM ET



Live streaming video by Ustream

Watch now live streaming: Broner vs. Maidana final press conference. Watch them live now before Broner and Maidana set foot into the ring on Saturday night boxing event.

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

[UPDATE]16 year old boxer, 'brain dead' after competing DepEd sanction boxing event

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[UPDATE] Jonas Joshua Garcia has died after days of comatose according to report from ABS-CBNnews.com

Manila, Philippines -- Jonas Joshua Garcia, 16, a senior high school student, was 'brain dead' after competing from a boxing event sanctioned by the Department of Education (DepEd). Garcia complained of dizziness during the second round of his match for the Central Luzon Regional Athletic Association (CLRAA) meet on Monday afternoon (Philippine time). According to a report from ABS-CBNnews.com, Garcia was still conscious when he was brought to Zambales provincial hospital.

Dr. Joselito Glorioso, told ABS-CBN's Nica Tomines that Garcia had an "internal hemorrhage", the same with what happened to Z Gorrez in 2009 when he won a 10 round unanimous decision against Luis Melendez in Las Vegas, Nevada USA.

With the incident, the Department of Education has suspended all boxing matches of the said athletic meet in Central Luzon.

Boxing become a popular event during athletic meet in Philippine public schools. This is obviously brought by the success of Filipino boxing icon, Manny Pacquiao, inside the squared circle, that step up the popularity of the sport even to students.

My son, which is in 5th grade ask my permission to participate in boxing on their school unit meet. He told me that he was the representative of their school for the said athletic meet. I'm a little bit hesitant to give straight away my 'yes' answer because of this kind of tragic event. Although this is isolated case, but you'll never know when and to whom it will happen.

So instead of giving my answer, I ask him several questions that eventually help me to decide. And my decision is 'no'. I didn't agree, not because I discourage him in boxing, but to this point, I don't want him to get involve.

Boxing is like driving a car in a super highway, it's risky, but it doesn't mean you will not drive at all.

I hope that Garcia will survive, and win the battle for his life, although I think the chance is very slim, but nothing is impossible. Let's pray for him.

Sunday, December 8, 2013

Guillermo Rigondeaux keeps on winning, but style drive fans away

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Although Guillermo Rigondeaux keeps on winning fights, but the question is: Did he gain more fans or drive fans away because of his style?

There's nothing more that can be said about the Cuban two-time Olympic Gold medalist Guillermo Rigondeaux, on his shutout victory against Joseph Agbeko of Ghana on HBO Triple Header, Saturday night, rather than describing how good he is.

Guillermo Rigondeaux is just too good and has all the textbook tricks you could ask for a prizefighter. He is fast, slick, and mastered the art of hitting without getting hit. This is the byproduct of 475 amateur fights. What else I need to say? There's no action.

It’s a snoozer for those who love slugfest.

However, if you truly understand boxing, you should admire Rigondeaux mastery of the sweet science.

The thing lacking for Rigo is drama inside/outside the ring and ability to speak English. I think Rigondeaux should incorporate the drama aspect. Only few those who assume the villain role of boxing that Floyd Mayweather does best.

Rigo should better blow his own horn and promote his brand of boxing, before all his remaining fans will believe that he's truly boring. He can brag to the highest level because he has the talent to back it up. Because Rigo fights like Floyd, he should talk like Floyd to stay relevant to the pocket of the paying fans.

Friday, December 6, 2013

Infographic: The anatomy of a boxing glove

I've blogging about boxing for quite sometime now, and I'm quite familiar with boxers and the latest boxing news. That said, I have little to no knowledge about boxing equipment. All I know is that a boxer should make significant investments in the right equipment before he enters the ring (but of course the gloves should not be loaded, because that's illegal) either for sparring or for an actual fight.

Here’s an infographic from Ringside Boxing that shows the various types of gloves and what goes into them. This infographic lets us know the right kind of glove for each boxing activity you regularly perform. For more, you can check out all of their products here.
Ringside Boxing Glove Infographic

Courtesy of: Ringside Boxing

Is Guillermo Rigondeaux going to brawl Joseph Agbeko?

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After Cuban two-time Olympic gold medalist, Guillermo Rigondeaux taught 2012 fighter of the year, Nonito Donaire, how to run; I mean how to box in a way that an opponent will look silly. Instead of hearing praises from HBO for showcasing his extremely superior boxing skills, he was labeled as 'boring fighter', and 'is hard to promote'.

What all fighters wanted every time they enter the savage ring is to win the fight, whatever it takes. At some point, fighters even resorted to; out-of-the-rule-book tactics, just to win fights. But Rigondeaux 12-0-0 (KO 8), gave Donaire none of these unacceptable tactics. But instead gave him extreme frustration: frustration, as to how to catch 'The Jackal' without getting hit. But Regondeaux is the one who perfected the art of hitting without getting hit on their April encounter.

After the fight, although Rigondeaux hands rose for victory, I assume when the message was translated for him about HBO comments, he might feel the same frustration as Donaire.

At times I wonder about double standards HBO in handling fighters. Andre Ward I think has the tendency to be even more boring that Rigondeaux because of his hit-hug style. Hopkins who mastered this technique, but why are still HBO's favorites?

I'm in doubt also of the timing of labeling Rigo as 'boring fighter' by HBO in April. That was the time when Floyd revealed that he had a six-fight mega contract with Showtime, and will no longer have HBO for his fights. It's like saying: "hey Floyd, Rigo is just as boring as you, and we don't need you here".

Rigondeaux will return to the ring against Joseph Agbeko 29-4-0 (KO 22), on Saturday night for Rigo's world super bantamweight twin title belts for HBO's Triple Header at the Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City.

I don't know why Rigo still headline here after that statement from HBO? Maybe he will be up to this level only not the PPV type.

Will Guillermo Rigondeaux change his style and brawls Agbeko in order to satisfy HBO?

I think he'll not, because this is what Rigo is, and he's good at boxing technically. Too damn good at it that he will cruise to a unanimous 12 rounds victory against Joseph Agbeko.

Yes. That's my prediction man for Guillermo Rigondeaux vs. Joseph Agbeko.

Thursday, December 5, 2013

Zab Judah vs. Paulie Malignaggi Preview: Three things in common

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There are three things Zab Judah and Paulie Malignaggi have in common leading into this fight, on Showtime's Saturday night main event at Barclays Center; both men will be coming in from competitive defeats from elite younger opponents in their previous fights, known to throw plenty of trash talk, and both hail from Brooklyn. Here’s my Judah vs. Malignaggi preview base on these things that both men have in common.

On their previous fights

Zab Judah 43-8-0 (KO 29), showed tremendous heart in front of his hometown crowd, in Brooklyn and managed to stay competitive throughout the fight against a decade younger champion, in Danny Garcia. Judah stayed on his feet despite wobbled and in deep trouble taking punishment in rounds five and six from straight right hands of Garcia.

Watching Judah wobbled reminds me of his first career knockout against Tyzu, wherein his hands hang loose on his side with his knees trembling. But against Garcia, he refused to go down.

However in the eighth round, another right hand caught Judah that sent him down on floor with cut below his left eye. But it didn't break the heart of Judah; he went up, fought back and gave Garcia trouble in the remaining rounds. Although, his efforts weren't enough to get the judges nod.

Paulie Malignaggi 32-5-0 (KO 7), was the heavy underdog in his last fight against Adrien Broner.  It seems to me that he was put in front of Broner, to make Broner 'look good' in moving up two weight classes, and an instant 'champion' at the welterweight division. But that was not smooth as what most expected. Instead, Malignaggi wasn't just competitive in trash talking leading into the fight, but also gave Broner trouble, and shall I say 'exposed' Broner to some degree.

Malignaggi 33, not only finished the fight but showed success early, boxing Broner. He used his jabs and fought on the outside and earned Tom Miller scorecards, which means to me that Malignaggi is a better boxer.

On trash talking and being both from Brooklyn

I'm a bit surprise about these two gentlemen from Brooklyn, for not trash talking each other. Well, I believed for one good reason. If they will spit venom against each other it's their fans from Brooklyn will be hurt. According to Judah during a conference call with media, "They said Paulie and I said 'Paulie, nah, Paulie is my homeboy."
But I was like, 'Hey, you know, this is an opportunity that you've got to take for boxing.' So I guess we're here now. Like I said, this is a fight where there's no animosity or anything like that. It's just us going in there and representing for our city."

It's good to hear that both men had mutual respect to each other; even though they are vying for no world title, but instead who's gonna be Brooklyn's king.

Prediction

In my opinion, Malignaggi is the better boxer, Amir Khan believed so. And he needs to prove that he's indeed the better boxer, in order to win this fight. Malignaggi don't have enough power in either hand to put Judah in trouble with a single punch. He needs to do more than what he did to Broner, and that is to move smart, throw more combinations and fight from the outside.

For Judah, I think he needs to be aggressive here, knowing that Malignaggi will try to outbox him. I think, Judah still had the quickness to sneak in those power left hands more on Malignaggi than what he did against Garcia. He will have the 'puncher's role' in this fight.

I believed, the outcome of this fight will depend on how Malignaggi would take Juda's best shot, which I believe Malignaggi can handle. And if indeed he can handle Juda's power then, I've got Malignaggi to win by decision over 12 rounds of entertaining fight with cheers from the boxing fans of the city of  New York.

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Boxing Schedule: 7th December 2013

This week's boxing schedule featuring Guillermo Rigondeaux, Paulie Malignaggi, Zab Judah, Devon Alexander and many more. After missing last weekends' explosive boxing fights that include: Kovalev's knockout victory against Sillakh, Mosley's defeat due to back injury, and of course 'Superman' Stevenson's knockout victory against Bellew in order to give you my recap on a great card that happened in Manila, Philippines, for the Pinoy Pride 23. Well, for this week, I can't afford to miss these interesting cards that we have over the weekend. Here we go.

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Barclays Center, Brooklyn, NY (Showtime).

  • Zab Judah vs. Paulie Malignaggi, welterweights 12 rounds.

  • Devon Alexander vs. Shawn Porter, welterweights 12 rounds.

  • Erislandy Lara vs. Austin Trout, junior middleweights 12 rounds.

  • Sakio Bika vs. Anthony Dirrell, super middleweights, 12 rounds.


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Head to head with HBO Triple Header, Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City.




  • Guillermo Rigondeaux vs. Joseph Agbeko, super bantamweights, 12 rounds.

  • James Kirkland vs. Glen Tapia, junior middleweights, 10 rounds.

  • Matthew Macklin vs Lamar Russ, middleweights, 10 rounds.


Darren Barker and Felix Sturm Press Conference

Porsche Arena, Stuggart, Germany (Sky Sports/SAT1).

  • Darren Barker vs Felix Sturm, middleweights, 12 rounds

  • Susi Kentikian vs Simona Galassi, flyweights, 10 rounds 

Top Rank mails US tax returns to Pacquiao lawyers

Las Vegas, Nevada --  Boxing promotion company Top Rank Inc. has already mailed certified true copies of Filipino champ Manny Pacquiao's tax returns in the US to the fighting congressman's lawyers to the Philippines, its CEO Bob Arum said. Read more on ABS-CBN news.com

Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Liborio Solis upsets Daiki Kameda to deny unification

The worst of Liborio Solis' road trip to Japan ended Monday at the scales, as fight night provide far more memorable results. Read more on Boxing Scene.com

Friday, November 29, 2013

Speaker tells Pacquiao: Just show proof of payment

MANILA - House Speaker Sonny Belmonte on Friday advised boxing champ and Saranggani Rep. Manny Pacquiao to just show proof he already paid his taxes in the United States. Read more on ABS-CBN News.com

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Manny Pacquiao borrows money for super typhoon Yolanda victims

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Is Manny Pacquiao really broke?

Filipino boxing icon Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao is fresh from his impressive victory against Mexican/American brawler Brandon "Bam Bam" Rios this weekend in Macau, China. Pacman's reported guaranteed purse is around USD 18M for this fight plus his PPV revenue shares.

However, Manny Pacquiao borrowed PHP 1M for super typhoon Yolanda victims, according to a report written by Dennis Gasgonia of ABS-CBN.com -- Philippines' giant TV network website.
Hindi ako makapag-withdraw ni isang singkong sentimo sa sarili ko pong pera, hindi ko magamit para man lang makatulong.” (I can't withdraw a single cent from my own money; I can't even used to help).

Pacquiao promised to typhoon Yolanda survivor that he will help and visit Tacloban.

Pacquiao's bank accounts were garnished by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) because he allegedly failed to declare the P2.2 billion in taxes, which he paid to the US Internal Revenue Service for the years 2008 to 2009.

In a live interview by Noli de Castro, also from ABS-CBN during their primetime news, Pacquiao told that he already gave to BIR copy of documents to prove that he already paid the IRS, but the BIR didn't honored.

In a separate interview, BIR Commissioner Kim Henares told ABS-CBN that Pacquiao provided only a letter coming from Top Rank. Henares pointed out that what the BIR need is the IRS income tax return that Pacquiao paid in the US.

Henares added that when BIR issued 'garnished order' to the banks -- to freeze Pacquiao accounts -- only two banks replied in which Pacquiao had only PHP 300,000 and PHP 800,000 deposited.
Ang pagka alam ko ho… dalawang banko lang ang nag sabi na may pera sya (Pacquiao) sa kanila at ito ay isang 300,000 at isang 800,000 pesos, so ito ay 1.1 million pesos… (In my knowledge… two banks only said that they have money from him (Pacquaio) and one amounting 300,000 and one amounting 800,000 pesos, so this is [total] 1.1 million pesos)

We are only talking 1.1 million pesos, which is way too little compared to what Pacquiao earned, Henares told in Filipino.

So, if for the amount mentioned above, Manny Pacquiao was appealing to BIR to lift the 'freeze order', does it mean that Pacquiao had no other source of money? If so, then yes he is broke. But then Pacquiao's desire to help didn't stop here. He still help even if it means he will borrow money.

Monday, November 25, 2013

Ranking the Top Ten Active European Boxers

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European professional boxers are breaching the American boxing scene and are gaining international recognition with representation from heavyweight to featherweight division. They barreled through and captivated the eyes of casual down to hardcore boxing fans.

Without further delay, take a look at SPB's Top Ten European boxers.

1. Wladimir Klitschko, 61-3-0 (KO 51) UKR, Heavyweight

2. Sergey Kovalev, 21-0-1 (KO 18) RUS, Light Heavyweight

3. Ruslan Provodnikov, 26-2-0 (KO 16) RUS, Junior Welterweight

4. Alexander Povetkin, 26-1-0 (KO 18) RUS, Heavyweight

5. Kubrat  Pulev, 18-0-0 (KO 9) BUL, Heavyweight

6. Tomasz Adamek, 49-2-0 (KO 29) POL, Heavyweight

7. Evgeny Gradovich, 17-0-0 (KO 8) RUS, Featherweight

8. Lucian Bute, 31-1-0 (KO 24) ROM, Super Middleweight

9. Viktor Postol, 23-0-0 (KO 10) UKR, Junior Welterweight

10. Andrzej Fonfara, 24-2-0 (KO 14) POL, Light Heavyweight

Honorable mentions:

Krzysztof Wlodarczyk, 47-2-1 (KO 33) POL, Cruiserweight

Denis Lebedev, 25-2-0 (KO 19) RUS, Cruiserweight

Zaurbeck Baysangurov, 28-1-0 (KO 20), Junior Middleweight

Khabib Allakhverdiev, 19-0-0 (KO 9) RUS, Junior Welterweight

Grigory Drozd, 37-1-0 (KO 26) RUS, Cruiserweight

Sergey Rabchenko, 24-0-0 (18) BEL, Junior Middleweight

Sunday, November 24, 2013

Manny Pacquiao dominates Brandon Rios

Manny Pacquaio v Brandon Rios - The Clash In Cotai

Macau, China -- Former eight division champion Manny Pacquiao won impressively in a one-sided affair against tough-as-nail Mexican/American opponent Brandon Rios.

“I’m no punching bag" said Rios as a response to the press during the final presser. But last night Rios looked like one, and can't punch back the desired combination he needed to make every round more competitive. The obvious difference: is the speed. Not the power.

Pacquiao, now improved his record to 55-5-2 (KO 38), used his superior foot speed to outmaneuver and fast combinations to outland the much slower California brawler Brandon Rios. Pacquiao won a lopsided unanimous decision with the scores of 119-109, 120-108, and 118-110. Thanks that there is no odd scoring tonight.

Pacquiao, according to this punch graphic from ESPN with statistics from Compubox, landed 48 percent of his power shots against Brandon Rios. Most of Pacquiao punches landed on both side of Rios' face.

Talking about Pacquiao's power, it seemed that it was the same it used to be. It’s just that Brandon Rios has a granite chin. A very tough hombre to crack, I gave credit to his toughness, not that Pacquiao's power has diminished. Those kinds of punches that landed on Rios used to drop lesser opposition.

Rios, now 31-2-1 (KO 23), was unable to impose his seek-and-destroy style as Pacquiao was very quick on his feet and constantly moving around the ring. Rios' will to win had no match for Pacquiao's elusiveness.

This is by far the lowest punch output of Rios (based on the link above) its either he was very busy defending his himself or looking for Pacquiao that he forgot to let his hands go.

Pacman proved that his career is 'not done yet', now, I'm excited with the monetary figures for this fight. Did Arum unlock the potential in China? Are we going to see more fights of this magnitude frequently in Macau? Does Pacquiao next fight would still be outside the US?

Saturday, November 23, 2013

Pacquiao vs. Rios results: Zou Shiming routs Juan Tozcano

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Two-time Olympian, Zou Shiming won impressively against Juan Tozcano from Mexico in a six round flyweight action. Shiming started fast and finished the fight strong at the Cotai Arena in Venetian Resort Macao, China. Shiming 3-0-0 looking to knockout the overwhelmed Tozcano, but Tozcano 4-1-0, was able to fight stayed the entire fight.

Shiming won via unanimous decision to the score of 60-54, 60-54 and 60-52.

Pacquiao vs. Rios results: Felix Verdejo outclasses Duanaaymukdahan

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Puerto Rican Felix Verdejo remained undefeated, won against tough opponent from Thailand Duanaaymukdahan in Cotai Arena, Venetian Resort, Macau, China as the under-card of Pacquiao vs Rios.

Verdejo 9-0 (KO 7) is moving very well around the ring and threw precise combinations. Most of Verdejo's punches, if not all, landed. but unable to knockout a very tentative and predictable opponent. Although Duanaaymukdahan 8-2 (KO 1), is very tough and was able to absorb whatever Verdejo thrown, but don't have power to intimidate Verdejo.

Verdejo is actually fighting a punching bag, the only thing is that it punches back.

Verdejo won via decision.

There's two things I observe in this fight: One, Verdejo is good, no doubt, but (two) don't have enough power to knockout even stationary target.

 

Friday, November 22, 2013

Manny Pacquiao vs. Brandon Rios: Preview and prediction

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Here's my preview and prediction of the fight between Manny Pacquiao and Brandon Rios.

Filipino boxing icon, Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, will be back in the ring, after almost a year, to face American Brandon “Bambam” Rios. The fight will be available live on HBO PPV and will be held on November 23, 2013 at the sprawling Cotai Arena, Venetian Resort, in Macao, China – Pacquiao’s first fight outside the United States since defeating Oscar Larios in Araneta Coliseum in Manila, Philippines.

Do you think this fight is a 'ceremonial passing' or a comeback fight of a 'great' champion?

Pacquiao insisted in every interview he had, that he's career is 'not done yet'. And that he's still young at age 34. But Rios pointed out that 'everybody gets old', and he will come out as the new superstar. Pacquiao is seven years older than Rios.

How important this fight to Manny Pacquiao and Brandon Rios?

Pacquiao and Rios are both coming in from losses in their previous fights. Both can’t afford to lose this time. Pacquiao, if he loses, it could mean retirement. For Rios it would mean going back to the long line.

Pacquiao, 54-5-2 (KO 38) will be coming in from back-to-back losses of his career. The first was against Timothy Bradley. Although many considered that Pacquiao was clearly robbed. The second loss was brutal and devastating: Pacquiao visit the mat face-first with a single punch from archrival Juan Manuel Marquez.

Brandon Rios, 31-1-1 (KO 23) will be coming in also from his first career defeat. He lost via decision by Mike Alvarado in their rematch.

My Prediction

I think, in the very first round, Rios will never engage Pacquiao. I'm sure he will not march forward towards Pacquiao like he did in his fights with Alvarado. Why? Because it's a foolish thing to do against Manny Pacquiao. Ask Ricky Hatton.

Rios's told that he is not scared of Pacquiao. I agree. But it doesn't mean to me that he will not respect Pacquiao's power. It will be cautious early rounds for Rios. And Pacquiao will be raking points from first up to four or five rounds.

We all know what exactly Pacquiao will be doing in those early rounds I mentioned: he will outbox Rios. He will be fighting in the middle of the ring to give more room for maneuvers. Pacquiao will look for more angles before throwing combinations and step-out before Rios can mount counter-shots.

After that cautious four or five rounds, Rios's will start to engage, and try to brawl. At this pointt, he'll probably know those punches to avoid coming from Pacquiao. And that probably are the left straights.

Somewhere between rounds six and seven, Rios will have his moment and will steal rounds. It will be in these rounds, that Rios may land the game changer punch. I believed that in these rounds, Rios, will be able to force to close the gap between him and Pacquiao. However it will be in these rounds that Pacquiao will catch him with the punch that he never see coming that will knock him out. Therefore I predict a Pacquiao TKO/KO win somewhere between round seven to nine.

But wait; there are some interesting links and info-graphic that I wanted you to read.

Manny Pacquiao Info-graphics - created by Financeonline.com

Requiem for a Welterweight - an interesting article in a long-form, but worth a read, written by Brin-Jonathan Butler. It was very well presented on BLH website, plus a documentary of Pacquiao's long-time trainer Freddie Roach at the end of the article.

Inspiring a Country to Fight: How Manny Pacquiao Can Help the Philippines - an article written by Kelsey MacCarson of Bleacher Report with my thoughts on how a Pacquiao fight would inspire a country suffering from the aftermath of super typhoon Yolanda.

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Manny Pacquiao vs. Brandon Rios: Pre-fight scuffle, between Roach, Ariza and Garcia

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“Alex Ariza kicked me in the chest” said Coach Freddie Roach, Manny Pacquiao’s long-time trainer, in a report written by Renee Fopalan of GMA News. This was Freddie Roach’s side of the story.

“He called me a piece of shit, then he called my friend a 'fucking Mexican,' then he called Elie (Seckbach) a 'fucking Jew.' What the fuck is that?" said Robert Garcia in a post I quote from Badlefthook written by Scott Christ. This was Robert Garcia and Alex Ariza side of the story.

I’m quite surprised when I first read the headlines this morning here in Kuwait. This is regarding the scuffle between Alex Ariza (former Pacquiao conditioning coach, now with Rios camp) and Robert Garcia, Rios trainer.

I just don’t understand why a kick has been directed to a person who is suffering from Parkinson’s disease. I’ mean come on. Roach, whatever he might be saying something really bad, or ‘racist comments’ whatsoever, but I think don’t deserved to be kicked. He’s an old fellow.

Throwing verbal jabs are quite normal prior to a fight. I mean, this is part of hyping the match. But kicking someone, which is suffering already an illness, for me, isn’t necessary.

I tried to find any comment from Pacquiao regarding the scuffle, but I didn’t found any.

Please check also the video below by Secondsout.com

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Manny Pacquiao vs. Brandon Rios: Pacquiao Infographic

Pacquiao & Rios to Make Grand Arrivals Tuesday

 
It’s getting nearer and nearer fight fans! Here’s a time converter and quick-check your location for difference in timing here.

MACAU, CHINA (November 19, 2013) – Fighter of the Decade MANNY “Pacman” PACQUAO and former world champion BRANDON “Bam Bam” RIOS are back together – almost – at least in the same hotel, ensconced inside luxury suites at The Venetian Macao.  Boxing’s top-two pound-for pound all-action superstars will make their Grand Arrivals – full of pomp and circumstance --  Tuesday night – in Prime Time – at the Main Porte Cochere of the host resort.  Rios will make his entrance, greeting his fans and meeting with dignitaries, at 9:00 p.m. local time, followed by Congressman Pacquiao at 9:30 p.m.

Upon their arrival at Macau International Airport on Monday evening, Pacquiao and Hall of Fame trainer World-Famous Freddie Roach had this to say:

MANNY PACQUIAO

“Am I confident for my fight with Rios?  I am more than confident.  Rios is bigger than me. Remember Goliath was bigger than David and yet David needed just one stone to fell the giant.  I enter this fight stronger than ever.  I have the strength of my country and my people coursing through my body.  I fight for them, not for me.  I fight for their glory, not mine.”

 

FREDDIE ROACH

"Manny’s last training session was nothing short of amazing.  We were supposed to do six rounds on the mitts and I cut it off after four rounds.  They were the best four rounds of mitts I have ever done with Manny.  He was blazing.  He was throwing the heat.  This was the happiest and most productive camp I have had with Manny in years.  I know I predicted that Manny would knock Rios out inside six rounds but based on our last workout, I don’t see how Rios makes it past the fourth round.”

Rios and Garcia hosted a roundtable in their suite with the first wave of international media who arrived earlier in the day.

BRANDON RIOS

“I want to feel Manny’s power.  I want to feel all of it.  This is the first training camp I have kept to the game plan and done everything I was told to do.  Manny Pacquiao is a big step.  I am going to shut everyone up and prove I am the best.  The second Alvarado fight was my bad.  I was focused on knocking him out and that’s how I trained and fought, throwing one shot at a time trying to land that knockout punch.  It was also the first time I ever lifted weights and by the third round I was slowing down.  This time I am focusing on winning -- not on the knockout -- and Robert and his dad have designed a lot of ways for me to do that.  My body clock has finally adjusted to Macau.  I slept until 7 a.m. and was in the gym before 9 a.m.  I know we are in Manny’s backyard and I want to win every round.  I have trained not to give up a minute to Manny Pacquiao.”

ROBERT GARCIA

“Twice during the two episodes of “24/7” I’ve heard Freddie Roach say he will ask Manny Pacquiao to retire if he loses to Brandon Rios.  Well, Freddie had better buy that gold watch for Manny, because the retirement party begins on Saturday night.  I guarantee you this will be the last time you ever see Manny Pacquiao on an HBO Pay-Per-View.”

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

 

Promoted by Top Rank® and Sands China Ltd., in association with MP Promotions, Tecate, Warner Bros. Pictures "Grudge Match," and Eva Airlines, Pacquiao vs. Rios will take place Saturday, November 23, at The Venetian® Macao’s CotaiArena™.  It will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View®, beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT.

For Pacquiao, this marks the pound-for-pound box office monarch's first fight outside the U.S. since his 12-round super featherweight unanimous decision victory over former world champion Oscar Larios in 2006, which took place in the Philippines.  Rios, one of boxing's most exciting fighters, has only fought outside the U.S. twice, in México, winning a 10-round split decision over Ricardo Dominguez and knocking out  Daniel Valenzuela in the second round in 2008 and 2009, respectively. .

HBO Sports’ groundbreaking “24/7” reality franchise, which has captured 17 Sports Emmy®Awards, is providing an all-access pass to Pacquiao vs. Rios.  The final episode of “24/7: Pacquiao/Rios” debuts Thursday, Nov. 21 (10:00 p.m.), just two days before the welterweight showdown.

For fight updates go to WWW.TOPRANK.COM or WWW.HBO.COM/BOXING, on Facebook at FACEBOOK.COM/TRBOXING, FACEBOOK.COM/TRBOXEO or FACEBOOK.COM/HBOBOXING and on Twitter atTWITTER.COM/TRBOXING, TWITTER.COM/TRBOXEO, and TWITTER.COM/HBOBOXING.  Use the Hashtag #PacRios to join the conversation on Twitter.

- See more at: http://www.toprank.com/news/boxing-promotions-pacquiao-rios-make-grand-arrivals#sthash.gJnVisUc.dpuf

Monday, November 18, 2013

David Haye advised to retire after major shoulder surgery

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Former world heavyweight champion David Haye has been advised to retire after major shoulder surgery.
The 33-year-old Briton had a five-hour reconstruction operation on his right shoulder in Germany on Thursday.

Read More on BBC Sport...

Manny Pacquiao vs. Brandon Rios video by GP promo

 

Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao and American Brandon Rios will meet in the ring on November 23 in Cotai Arena, Venetian Resort in Macao, China.  Both men coming off from respective loses and can't afford to lose their very next fight. On Saturday night 8 PM EST, Sunday morning in Macao we'll find out who will get back to the winning column.

Watch this video from GP promo for this fight that features both fighter's career highlights.


Here's a video of Brandon Rios' career tribute also by GP promo that showcased the ring exploits of "Bambam" Rios.



More on Pacquiao vs. Rios coverage:

Sunday, November 17, 2013

Andre Ward dominates an overweight Edwin Rodriquez in 12 rounds

[caption id="attachment_763" align="aligncenter" width="550"]ward_vs_rodriquez Ward dominates Rodriquez in a 12-round one sided affair[/caption]

Andre Ward showed no ring-rust on Saturday night's HBO fight card in Ontario, California. Ward dominated Rodriquez in 12 rounds of one-sided action.

Andre Ward 27-0-0 (KO 14) was coming off from over a year lay-off due to shoulder injury and subsequent surgery. But his performance showed no ring-rust and still sharp with his jab and quick on his feet. Rodriquez face was the constant target of those precise jabs.

Although the fight got nasty on early because of the usual hit-hug approach of Ward, it was in round 4 that referee Jack Reiss issued tough warning to both combatants.

Both men ignored Reiss instruction as he (Reiss) tried to separate them. Rodriquez got Ward's head locked in his left arm, while Ward was moving forward.  The referee stepped in the separate them but both men didn't adhere and continue punching instead.

Reiss was almost knocked down by a left hand from Rodriquez as he tried to hold Ward to stop the action. He then sent both men to each neutral corner and needed a second to shake-off that punch. After that he issued two-point deduction to both guys.

The fight went on, minus, a little bit of roughhousing.

But we can't deny that the style of Ward is just too clever, which he don’t need it against Rodriquez. I mean, he can win the fight minus the routine clinching. His hit-and-hug approach or 1-2-hug combo is no longer necessary.

Rodriquez clearly had no answer to Ward's quickness and precise jabs. "La Bomba" was just too sloppy and tentative. His punches were wide, wild and traveled like 5 KPH it seems?

Personally, I don't like this approach: the hit-hug. It's like hitting and then apologizing and then hitting again. Sounds like betrayal to me. Anyway that is Ward style.

Ward won the scores of 118-106, 117-107, and 116-108.

Garrett Wilson in an entertaining fight against Vyacheslav Glazkov on NBC

[caption id="attachment_749" align="aligncenter" width="550"]Glazkov dominates short noticed Wilson on NBC Glazkov dominates short noticed Wilson on NBC[/caption]

 

Despite being named to replace Tomasz Adamek in a four days notice, Garrett Wilson showed his entertaining factor against Vyacheslav Glazkov on Saturday afternoon on NBC.

Although, Wilson lost the fight against a taller and bigger Glazkov, he (Wilson) showed how to win the crowd (at least for the crowd) how to fight, and how to entertained, which is the most important for the fight fans.

In the early going it is obvious that he will be dominated by a much agile and skilled undefeated slugger from Ukraine. But Wilson 13-7-1- (KO 7), is dangerous throughout the fight.

Most of his sweeping power hooks missed its target, but Glazkov 16-0-1 (KO 11), knows he's in trouble once he got caught. Glazkov fought cautiously and used his height advantage to evade those looping power shots that Wilson unleashed.

Every time Glazkov connects, Wilson will come back on his own power shots that some find mark on Glazkov chin. But those were not enough to topple the bigger opponent.

Glaskov won on the scores of 97-93, 98-92, and 99-91.

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Blogging and writing about boxing

 

 Blogging and writing about boxing


In 2006, honestly this is the year when I first have access on the internet, I'm one of those boxing fans that surf the net to find interesting stuff about the sport I love---more than any other sport---that's boxing.


But even before I've got internet access, I already followed boxing. And that's watching boxing match every Sunday morning in the Philippines (Saturday night EST) wherein big boxing cards usually aired.


I can still recall fighting sleepiness just to watch Tyson vs. Douglas on our 12" black-and-white TV set. The fight was on delayed telecast on our local TV network jam-packed with commercials. Don’t get me wrong, the fight isn't the cause of my lethargy, but it was the commercials.


The fight finished at 12 midnight, (12 midnight is very late in the southern part of the Philippines) this was Tyson's first career defeat. The fight was held in our neighboring country Japan in 1990.


Then, the following morning (Monday) I'll be telling the whole story of the fight to my classmates. I just really don't care if they were interested or not.


That's how I followed boxing in the past: watching fights every Sunday, talking to my classmates about the fight every Monday.


In the late 1990's Oscar De la Hoya became a household name in the Philippines, the same time wherein Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao can be seen boxing on local TV network bulldozing opponents on a program called "Blow by Blow".


With the rise of De la Hoya (my favorite non-Filipino fighter, not as a business man though) aside from Tyson, Leonard and Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, just made me love 'the sweet science' even more.


When I got access on the internet, my passion about boxing became more and more intense. The more I found leading boxing sites with up to date information, the more I crave for more.


I think I almost have all the login account to most boxing sites. And I tried to comment every time I visit. But I hate forums. I just hate when I read crazy argument. Boxing, of all the sports, had the most brilliant heads (boxingheads as what they call it) but had also craziest fans and followers.


In 2010, I incidentally stumbled upon into a blogging plat form, I thought never exist. I never thought I can own a free blog site. I never thought I can write my craziest thoughts about boxing instead of messing around boxing websites with my craziest thoughts about boxing.


But blogging is not just about writing stuff. It's about being responsible and fact checking, not offending anyone even when laying down commentaries and opinions.


I'm not having degree in journalism, but it will not stop me from writing about something I'm passionate about. I agree with what World Boxing News.net editor Phil D. Jay wrote in his article.



"I can understand when you hear some arguments on grammar and standard of writing, but not everyone can get a degree in this day and age - with my philosophy being "the more you write, the better you can become".

This is true especially to those who are trying to write in English, but English is not the mother tongue---like me. But as what I have said, there's no stopping me about writing for the sport I'm passionate about.


As long as I can utter the very same words I wrote face-to-face to my subject person, (plus of course fact-checking my works), then I having nothing to worry about.


To those boxing fans that wanted to put your thoughts into writing, but hesitant because you don't have the proper background to back it up, don't stop, and simply write something from the heart.


Here's my personal list of excellent boxing blogs that I recommend worth reading, in no particular order.



Manny Pacquiao vs. Brandon Rios: Watch Pacquiao workout livestreaming

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Manny Pacquiao will perform live workout. You can watch it via live stream. The live workout will start today, Thursday 14, November 2013 at 2 pm EST.

Filipino boxing icon, Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, will be back in the ring, after almost a year, to face American Brandon “Bambam” Rios. The fight will be available live on HBO PPV and will be held on November 23, 2013 at the sprawling Cotai Arena, Venetian Resort, in Macao, China – Pacquiao’s first fight outside the United States since defeating Oscar Larios in Araneta Coliseum in Manila, Philippines.

You can watch the live workout by simply clicking on the above photo.

(Update: If you missed out Pacquiao live workout on Thursday; here's the link on the the replay. Click here.)

More related articles on Pacquiao-Rios Coverage

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Manny Pacquiao vs. Brandon Rios 24/7 first episode


Watch the Manny Pacquiao vs. Brandon Rios 24/7 first episode that highlighted both men's previous fights and their press tour that kick-off in Macao, China and culminated in the US.

Also in the video, Jinky Pacquiao, the wife of the Filipino boxing icon, spoke about how she and his husband get over and move on with the knockout loss Pacquiao suffered from his long time rival, Juan Manuel Marquez.

"We are not talking about the knockout seriously" said Jinky and that they "joke" about the KO sometimes. She also ask his husband, Manny after the fight to retire.
After the fight I did ask him to retire, but Manny still wanted to fight, so, whatever it is, we support his decision."

Manny reiterated that it is boxing, and if you don't want to lose, don't box. He asserted that his boxing career is "not done yet".

Okay that's it, if you'll read everything here, then what's the use of posting the video above. So come on hit the play button and enjoy!

Seriously, if you wanted to read a comprehensive recap, what about clicking the link here, that will lead you to the Pacquiao vs. Rios 24/7 recap written by Michael Woods from 'The Sweetscience'.

More on Pacquiao vs. Rios:

Saturday, November 9, 2013

HBO Boxing After Dark Results: Garcia, Donaire, Andrade winners

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HBO's Boxing After Dark Triple Header Results: featuring Mikey Garcia vs. Rocky Martinez, Nonito Donaire vs. Vic Darchinyan II in the featherweight division and Vanes Martirosyan vs. Demetrius Andrade at the American Bank Center, Corpus Christi, Texas.

Mikey Garcia KO 8 Rocky Martinez

Mikey Garcia stops Martinez in a very composed and methodical fight against Martinez making a statement in the super featherweight division, despite being knockdown in the second round. Garcia wobbled and hurt Martinez in the sixth and seventh round and I'm looking for that killer instinct in Mikey. Seriously, I'm a bit unhappy when a fighter refuses to finished off an opponent, which is on the verge of going down. But Garcia didn't frustrate me more or his legion of fans, but instead show that killer instinct I'm looking for in the eighth round landing a vicious body shot that took Martinez out of the fight.

Nonito Donaire KO 9 Vic Darchinyan

Nonito Donaire and Vic Darchinyan started the fight very cautious. As the rounds progresses, the cautious style did good for Darchinyan. Donaire struggled to gain control of the fight. Occasionally, Darchinyan's left stunned if not staggered Nonito. But as Nonito start using his left hook more, he catches Darchinyan with the same counter left-hook that put Darchinyan out in their first encounter six years ago. Although, this time Darchinyan managed to get back on his feet, but only to be greeted again with tremendous barrage of punches from the attacking Donaire. The referee stops the fight as it should be.

Demetrius Andrade SD12 Vanes Martirosyan

After the first round knock down and losing a couple of rounds in the first half of the fight, Demetrius Andrade slowly pick up the pace and controlled the second half of the fight. He was able to stopped Martirosyan on his track with his jab delivered in a southpaw stance. Vanes work-rate somewhat dropped dramatically in the second half. And it seemed that the final round was in for the grab. However I've never seen any dramatic effort from Martirosyan. Andrade was still in control and that I feel he won the fight. The judges cards read 115-112 Vanes, 114-113 Andrade and 117-110 Andrade.

Alex Saucedo KO 3 Steve Hall

Alex Saucedo, 11-0-0 (KO 8) was in for a short night knocking out Steve Hall inside Round 3. Early on it was evident that Saucedo's power is dominant. Hall seemed to back down every punch that Saucedo landed onto him. And in the third round Saucedo finished Hall into the ropes.

Nicholas Walters TKO 4 Alberto Garza

WBA featherweight titlist Nicholas Walters, 23-0-0 (KO 19) stops Alberto Garza in Round 4. Garza was down once in the fourth round but was ruled by the referee as a low blow. However, in the replay it seems to me that it was a good shot, right in the food basket. The referee gave Garza time to recovee. When the fight resumed, Walters jumped in to Garza and finished him (Garza) off with series of punches that sent him down flat on his back, this time really for good.

Donaire vs. Darchinyan II: Predictions from around the web

Donaire-Darchinyan-II


Down below are the predictions from around the web of the rematch between Nonito "The Filipino Flash" Donaire and Vic "Raging Bull" Darchinyan on Saturday night 9 Nov. 2013 at American Bank Center, Corpus Christi, Texas, USA.

Darchinyan had long been waiting for this rematch to happen since he lost to Donaire in 2007. But it took six years before this rematch to finally materialize. Darchinyan was 31 years old when he lost his IBF flyweight title to Donaire via 5th round TKO. Now Darchinyan 37 while Donaire is 31.

In the seven years gap, Darchinyan lost four out of 16 fights. These losses were all by decision. If Darchinyan have hard time moving on to any of that loses in his career, I guess that would be the TKO loss he suffered from the Filipino Flash.

Darchinyan was a proud cocky champion at that time against the then unknown 25 years old Donaire. For Darchinayan, Nonito was just the brother of Glen Donaire, whom he defeated two fights prior to his (Darchinyan) first encounter with Noinito. But then Nonito Donaire knocked him out in a brutal manner with just a single punch. A defeat he has been longing to avenge.

On the other hand, Donaire accumulated another 13 straight victories after that TKO win against Darchinyan, before he was taken to boxing clinic by Cuban 2-time Olympian Guillermo Rigondeaux.

My Prediction:

If you will ask me, I'll go for Nonito Donire to win via stoppage in the middle rounds to Round 7.

Now let's take a look at prediction around the web for Donaire-Darchinyan II. Let's see how boxing pundits look at the fight between a fighter that seeks revenge and to a fighter, fighting to get back his stature.

Prediction from around the web:

Briggs Seekins, Bleacher Report -- Donaire to win by Round 9 TKO.

Niall Doran, Doran's Boxing Blog -- "Donaire by stoppage inside Round 7".

Cliff Rold, Boxing Scene -- "Donaire by stoppage sometime around the ninth".

Scott Levinson, ProBoxing-fans.com -- "Nonito Donaire wins by unanimous decision".

Badlefthook staff picks:

Ryan Bivins --  "Donaire by stoppage"

Scott Christ -- "Donaire by decision"

Fraser Coffeen, BloodyElbow.com -- "Donaire TKO 8".

Steve Janoski -- "Donaire KO-7".

Dave Oakes -- "Donaire TKO-8".

Ed Tolentino (via twitter) -- "Darchinyan should end up doing his best imitation of sleeping beauty".