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Friday, May 31, 2019

Opportunity Knocks For Ruiz



It can at times be an overused expression, but Boxing is truly a sport of opportunity. Opportunities in the sport can come in several forms. One of the most familiar stories that most people are familiar with whether they are fans on any level or someone with little interest in the sport is one of a young fighter working his/her way through the ranks to earn an opportunity to fight for a world championship. A way that opportunity can come knocking on someone’s door that does not always get talked about is when a fighter steps into a fight on short notice.

Although such a scenario can vary with regard to opportunity, it is one that happens regularly in the sport. When the opportunity comes in the form of stepping into a world championship fight, it can indeed be viewed as the Boxing equivalent of one stumbling upon a winning lottery ticket. Some fighters have been able to take advantage of such scenarios, while others have not. The latest fighter to be placed in such a scenario is Heavyweight contender Andy Ruiz.

Ruiz,  took an unbeaten record into the ring to challenge for the vacant WBO Heavyweight world championship in December 2016 when he battled fellow undefeated contender Joseph Parker. In what was a close and competitive fight, Ruiz came out on the losing end of a twelve round majority decision. Despite that setback, Ruiz made a solid account for himself in defeat. Since that fight against Parker, Ruiz has gone unbeaten in three bouts scoring knockouts in two of those bouts.

Despite being ranked in the top five in the World Boxing Association (WBA) Heavyweight ratings, Ruiz was positioned on the outside looking in along with several other too contenders as the main storyline of the division has continued to be the two world champions of the division Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder heading towards what appears to be an eventual showdown to fully unify the World Heavyweight championship. As each fight in the careers of each champion has continued and subsequent coverage of each bout has been provided to the readers of The Boxing Truth®️ by this observer, the consistent question has been is the eventual showdown between the two any closer to becoming a reality.

As most know, Wilder recently scored a first round knockout over Dominic Breazeale earlier this month in his ninth defense of the World Boxing Council (WBC) Heavyweight world championship. For unified IBF/WBA/IBO/WBO world champion Anthony Joshua however, his scheduled title defense for this Saturday was nearly derailed by circumstances beyond his control. Undefeated top contender Jarrell Miller, Joshua’s scheduled opponent for the unbeaten champion’s United States debut at New York’s Madison Square Garden, was removed from the fight due to testing positive for several banned substances during randomized testing under the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency’s (VADA) testing protocols.

While the situation involving Miller is a subject to be discussed at another time, Miller’s circumstances opened the door of opportunity for Ruiz, who stepped into the fight on limited notice to face the champion. The circumstances that led to this bout, which will take place on the scheduled date of what would have been Joshua’s title defense against Miller now presents a scenario that is reminiscent of a good movie script. A familiar story of an underdog that takes a fight against a world champion on short notice, who is given little chance to pull off what would be considered an upset.

An aspect that could work to Ruiz’ advantage is he has good hand speed for a Heavyweight. Despite his having a physique is misleading, Ruiz is the type of fighter who can throw punches in several variations of combination. The primary obstacle in my mind for the challenger as this fight approaches has to do with physics.


Joshua will have a four-inch height advantage and an eight-inch reach advantage over Ruiz. At 6’6, the champion will likely look to keep the challenger at distance with his 82” reach. The 6’2 Ruiz must find a way to get on the inside of Joshua’s reach where his 74” reach will not be a disadvantage.

Of course, this is a task that can at times be easier said than done. For Ruiz to be successful in this fight. however getting on the inside and turning the combat into an inside fight is crucial. The primary question that faces Anthony Joshua as this fight approaches is what effect, if any did the situation regarding Jarrell Miller have on his preparation for Ruiz? In addition to answering that question looms the possibility of Joshua potentially looking ahead to a potential unification bout with Deontay Wilder down the line is something to also keep in mind.

As most Boxing fans likely know, Deontay Wilder announced via social media earlier this week that he will face top contender Luis Ortiz in a rematch of their 2018 encounter later this year. Given that announcement, the odds of an undisputed Heavyweight championship fight happening by the end of this year appear slim. The possibility of potential distractions having an effect on Joshua however, is a real one under the circumstances.

While most fans and experts alike will continue to anticipate the full unification of the Heavyweight division, the best thing for Anthony Joshua for the immediate future will be to focus on the opponent that will be standing across the ring from him in a historic venue known as “The World’s Most Famous Arena” and “The Mecca of Boxing” in his U.S. debut. If for whatever reason the champion is not focused on the task at hand, an unlikely and perhaps underestimated challenger just might seize the opportunity that has presented itself.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

Joshua vs. Ruiz takes place tomorrow night (Saturday, June 1st) at Madison Square Garden in New York City, NY. The fight can be seen in the United States and several international countries on digital sports streaming network DAZN. The undercard will begin at 5:30 PM ET/2:30PM PT (U.S. Time). The main portion of the card is scheduled to begin at 9PM ET/6PM PT. (U.S. Time.) For more information about DAZN, schedules, list of available streaming devices, availability around the world, and to subscribe, please visit: www.DAZN.com.

In the United Kingdom and Ireland, the card can be seen on Sky Sports Box Office Pay-Per-View for £19.95 beginning at 10PM Saturday, June 1st (Local UK Time.) For ordering information and availability in your area please visit: https://www.sky.com/boxoffice/joshua-ruizjr. Check your local listings internationally.

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Follow Beau Denison on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Beau_Denison



Steve Gago Sets Sights On IBF Pan-Pacific Title


Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing

Press Release: May 31, 2019 By Dragon Fire Boxing – Perth's undefeated Welterweight standout Steve Gago is ready to top the bill at the coveted IBF convention in Macau, contesting the IBF's Pan-Pacific title as he looks towards breaking onto the world scene in quick fashion.


Gago, who has an unblemished professional record so far as a professional, opened up at the opportunity given to him to box at the prestigious IBF convention. He said, “Firstly thank you to my manager Tony Tolj at Dragon Fire Boxing for making this amazing opportunity a reality for me.

 “As a boxer, you always want to be recognised by the governing bodies, so fighting at a convention is the ultimate. I can’t wait to put on a show for the IBF representatives and hopefully showcase my skills well enough, win the fight and emerge with a high world rating following it.”

Gago will contest the Pan-Pacific regions title at the Macau convention this coming weekend, and the Perth native opened up about his preparations prior to his big opportunity. Gago said, “Training has gone perfectly for this fight. I am always in the gym, sparring up and coming talent like Jackson England who is going to be a champion going forward, and experienced former world champions like Lucas Browne. I couldn’t ask for more training wise and that is showing in my performances.”

Every fighter works towards being the best in their country, and then the best in the world. Gago is no exception, as, under the guidance of Dragon Fire Boxing, he has plotted a way to the pinnacle of the sport.

Gago elaborated, “I want to be recognised as the best fighter in my weight class in Australia, which means everything to me. I have an experienced Filipino opponent in the opposite corner in Macau, and I know that I will have to be at my best to prove I am the best Welterweight in Australia and the Pan-Pacific region. “I am not looking past this fight by any means, but my plan is to take on the world starting at the IBF convention in Macau. I will fight anyone and I know that anyone that is put in front of me I will beat and I will beat them in an entertaining fashion.


 “I am a no-nonsense fighter. I come to fight, and that is what not just boxing fans but general sports fans want to see the world around. My manager Tony Tolj will deliver me the fights that sports fans will be entertained with and I will continue to work towards becoming a world champion starting in Macau this weekend.”

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission.

For more information about Dragon Fire Boxing please visit Dragon Fire Boxing’s official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/DragonFireBoxing.

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.




Monday, May 27, 2019

KOBAYASHI UPSETS MANANQUIL




Press Release: May 27, 2019 By Sanman Promotions – Pinoy Bantamweight prospect Ben Mananquil drops to (W14 KO4 L2 D3) as he suffers an upset loss in the hands of Yuki Kobayashi, now (W15 KO9 L8 D0) and the new WBO Asia Pacific Bantamweight champion. The fight was competitive all throughout but Mananquil appeared to have an injured thus changing the tempo of the fight. Kobayashi became the aggressor as he smelled blood and finally cornered Mananquil in the tenth round.


For Mananquil, “I injured my right hand during training but I don’t want to make excuses. Kobayashi was the better fighter tonight. We win some and lose some. I will come back stronger. This is a hard lesson for me. My apologies to my fans and team for not being able to bring home the belt.”


According to Sanman CEO Jim Claude Manangquil, “ Ben trained hard for this. Props to Kobayashi for going all in and finally getting his reward.

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Sanman Promotions Used with permission.

For more information about Sanman Promotions and to watch the Sanman Live Boxing series please visit Sanman Promotions’ official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/SanmanPromotions

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.



Friday, May 24, 2019

Australian Boxing Supremo Tony Tolj Discusses Andrew And Jason Moloney's Signing With Top Rank


Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing

Press Release: May 24, 2019 By Dragon Fire Boxing/Team Moloney – Tony Tolj has been a mainstay in Australian boxing for over a decade, having emerged onto the global scene as an integral figure in the career of Indonesian legend Chris John.

Tolj has chameleon-like tendencies when it comes to both the Australian and global boxing industry. He seems to keep evolving and adapting, moving with the times with significant ease. This has reflected in his ability to develop fighters, and get the best out of established pros. 

At the present time, Tolj has two of the world's hottest talents on his hands, in the shape of 'The Australian Klitschko's' Andrew and Jason Moloney. The pair have steadily climbed the world ratings, and now hold lofty positions with world title clashes on the horizon for the pair.

Not only do the pair appear to be heading towards world title clashes in the super flyweight and bantamweight divisions respectively, but news has emerged that the pair have linked up with the promotional powerhouses Top Rank.

Tony Tolj has guided both Moloney brothers for the majority of their careers and the Western Australian based manager opened up about his charges linking up with legendary promoter Bob Arum's American based setup.

Tolj said, "I am absolutely over the moon with Andrew and Jason linking up with Top Rank. Top Rank is the world leaders in boxing and has been for years. Top Rank always seem to keep growing and growing and getting stronger and stronger on a global scale, so for the boys to be a part of such a special setup makes me very proud." 

Tolj continued, discussing the effects that the Moloney brothers deal with Top Rank could have for both twins and for Australian boxing as a whole, "The Moloney brothers are unbelievable talents, so for them to link up with Top Rank will be a massive factor in them becoming world champions. 

"Top Rank has the capacity to make sure that the brothers get a fair shake when they fight for the world title. We've seen robberies when people go to other fighters backyards, and I believe Jason Moloney would have been a world champion if he had fought Emmanuel Rodriguez on neutral turf; but with Top Rank on our side these issues won't happen anymore." 

Tolj continued, as he gave his take on what the Moloney's and Top Rank link up can do for Australian boxing, "The Moloney's linking up with Top Rank will bring more global attention to Australian boxing, that will help in countless ways and it will also open a door for rising Australian talents to be assessed by in my opinion the biggest promoter in the world, Top Rank. This link up is bigger than the future of two fighters, as it will help Australian boxing grow for years to come." 

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing and Team Moloney Used with permission.

For more information about Dragon Fire Boxing please visit Dragon Fire Boxing’s official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/DragonFireBoxing

To learn more about Andrew and Jason Moloney please visit their respective Facebook pages:



The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.




Haney-Moran Weights


Credit: Ed Mulholland/Matchroom Boxing USA

Press Release: By DAZN – OXON HILL, MARYLAND, May 24, 2019 – On the eve of DAZN’s stacked Memorial Day weekend boxing card, the fighters hit the scales and all successfully made weight at National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland. On Saturday night, undefeated lightweight sensation Devin Haney (21-0, 13 KOs) of Las Vegas will make his DAZN debut against Mexico’s Antonio Moran (24-3, 17 KOs) in the scheduled 12-round main event. In the co-feature of the evening, Croatia’s Filip Hrgovic (7-0, 5 KOs) takes on Gregory Corbin (15-1, 9 KOs) of Dallas, Texas, in a heavyweight title scheduled for 10 rounds. Kicking off the action at 9:00 p.m. ET on DAZN, Michael Hunter (16-1, 11 KOs) of Las Vegas will look to extend his unbeaten streak at heavyweight when he faces off against Brazil’s Fabio Maldonado (26-2, 25 KOs) in a scheduled 10-round affair.

Three undercard bouts will air on DAZN beginning at 7:00 p.m. ET, prior to the main card at 9:00 p.m. ET.

12-Round Lightweight Fight @ 135 lbs.
Devin Haney: 134.8 lbs.
Antonio Moran: 134.0 lbs.

10-Round Heavyweight Fight
Filip Hrgovic: 242.0 lbs.
Gregory Corbin: 269.4 lbs.

10-Round Heavyweight Fight
Michael Hunter: 215.5 lbs.
Fabio Maldonado: 241.0 lbs.

For more information, fans can follow DAZN’s U.S. social channels: @DAZNUSA on Facebook, @DAZN_USA for Twitter, and DAZN_USA for Instagram.

About DAZN:
DAZN is the largest global sports streaming platform in the world. Since launching in 2016, DAZN had expanded across four continents with the service available in the United States, Canada, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Japan and Brazil. DAZN guarantees no long-term contract, no bundles, just affordable access to all the service's sports on connected devices including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, games consoles and PCs. In the U.S., DAZN has made its mark as an attractive alternative to pay-per-view within the combat sports industry. The platform features more than 100 fight nights per year from Matchroom Boxing, Golden Boy Promotions, GGG Promotions, Bellator MMA, the World Boxing Super Series and Combate Americas. DAZN also features live MLB action each day of the season with its new daily show, ChangeUp.

Material Courtesy of: DAZN/ Photo Courtesy of: Ed Mulholland/Matchroom Boxing USA Used with permission.

For more information about DAZN, availability around the world, list of connected devices, schedules, and to subscribe please visit: www.DAZN.com.


The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.



Will Joshua Be Next For Wilder?



The main story that has surrounded Boxing’s Heavyweight division has been the dominance of the division’s two world champions. Two world champions that are both known “Knockout Artists “ and two fighters that happen to be undefeated. As each fighter has continued to hold onto their respective portions of the World Heavyweight championship, anticipation has naturally been building for what is viewed as an eventual showdown to determine an Undisputed World Heavyweight champion.

While the division’s two world champions Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua are no closer at least at the moment to signing an eventual clash, both fighters continue to focus their attention on other opposition. Following a close split decision draw against undefeated former Heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury last December, Deontay Wilder made the ninth defense of his World Boxing Council (WBC) World Heavyweight championship against mandatory WBC challenger Dominic Breazeale on May 18th at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY.

An encounter between two former United States Olympians who do not like each other. The fight however, was over before it could really begin. A flush overhead right  to the jaw sent Breazeale down and out at just 2:17 of the first round. Frankly, there is not much one can write about a one punch knockout, but Wilder’s fortieth knockout in forty-one professional fights was as good an example as any of not just the punching power Wilder possesses, but of how sometimes all a fighter needs is one punch to end a fight.

It was a knockout however, that followed a week of controversial comments made by the world champion regarding among other things how he in his words wanted a body on his record. Referring to the potential of an opponent dying at his hands. I did not comment on this in previewing this fight because I was trying to determine whether those comments by Wilder directed towards Breazeale was in a way a tactic to promote the fight and to draw interest in the bout or whether it was an indication of the bad blood between the two fighters and more specifically how I would address it.

While I cannot answer that question, I can offer my thoughts on the comments. It goes without saying that Boxing like all combat sports have a risk factor attached to it. Although all combat sports have a skilled art form attached to it as well and such skills can be beautiful and enjoyable to watch, no fighter should ever make references to wanting to potentially kill their opponent regardless of the reasoning.

Boxing history has several tragedies where a fighter has died as a result of injuries sustained during a fight written in its book. While all of those tragedies can be described as accidents where more often than not, the end result came as a result of a fight being allowed to go on longer than it should have, if one looks at the fighters who have had to deal with such tragedies of having to deal with the death of an opponent as a result of a fight they competed in, each fighter carries or carried scars and grief over what took place for the rest of their lives.

Although I don’t want to compile a list of tragedies for the reader or for Wilder himself because there will always be one too many, I will offer this memory. I have been writing about and covering Boxing as well as other combat sports for most of my life. In over two decades covering Boxing, I have unfortunately covered a death that came as a result of injuries suffered in a fight. I am referring to the Septemer 2005 encounter between Leavander Johnson and Jesus Chavez.

A fight that Chavez gradually dominated and one that saw Johnson sustain significant punishment throughout. The fight was stopped in the eleventh round, but as someone who covered that fight I have always felt that it should have been stopped earlier. As some Boxing fans may remember, Johnson collapsed in his dressing room shortly after the fight and was rushed to a nearby hospital where he unfortunate died days later from injuries sustained in that fight.

Although that tragedy remains the only one that I have had to cover in regard to Boxing since I began writing about the sport in the mid-1990’s, it is still one tragedy too many. Chavez like fighters before him who had suffered similar circumstances continued on with his career, but was never the same after that fight.

Even though some may view Deontay Wilder’s comments prior to his knockout of Dominic Breazeale as simply a fighter looking to generate publicity and draw interest, I feel he went too far. Deontay Wilder has the potential to go down in history as one of the all-time great Heavyweights and it would be a shame in this observer’s view if he were to be remembered more for comments like that than for his accomplishments inside the ring. Thankfully beyond a fighter suffering a knockout loss, no such tragedy was inflicted upon the sport when Deontay Wilder retained his portion of the World Heavyweight championship over Dominic Breazeale.

As always seems to be the case following a successful title defense, the question is what’s next? Obviously, yours truly would like to see a fight between Wilder and Anthony Joshua to determine an Undisputed World Heavyweight champion. Whether or not that fight will happen in the near future depends on a couple of key elements.

First and foremost, Joshua is scheduled to defend his IBF/WBA/IBO/WBO Heavyweight world championship on June 1st against top contender and former world title challenger Andy Ruiz. If Joshua retains his crown against Ruiz, the subject of potential mandatory title defense obligations comes into play as well as another key element that unfortunately plays just as much a role in determining when major fights like an undisputed world championship bout takes place. Whether or not competing network platforms and rival promoters will allow it to happen.

Through the years in both online and print medium readers have become accustomed to me not only discussing the “Business of Boxing” and what goes into it, but have also seen me be quite critical when necessary with regard to elements of the “Business of Boxing” standing in the way of things that would be to the long-term benefit of “The Sport of Boxing.”

Although I don’t want to spend too much time discussing how one of the key topics leading up to Deontay Wilder’s fight against Dominic Breazeale was not necessarily about the fight itself, but about how Wilder turned down a lucrative contract offer from digital sports streaming network DAZN, which would have put him on the same platform as Anthony Joshua, but it is necessary. Wilder instead chose to remain with Showtime and the Premier Boxing Champions banner.

While this certainly does not mean that Wilder will not be seen on DAZN at some point in the future, it does present an obstacle in a potential fight between the two unbeaten Heavyweight world champions from being made due to competing platforms and rival promoters. It is no secret and should be none to longtime readers that I have been and will continue to be very vocal in my support of the sport going in a direction of direct to consumer subscription-based digital streaming as compared to the pay-per-view model.

In this instance, we have one platform DAZN that is focused on the future and has frankly put out a more consistent flow of what one would consider “Pay-Per-View Quality” content as compared to many recent pay-per-view attractions for a more economically reasonable price. On the other hand, there is Showtime, which now stands alone as the only premium cable network in the United States still involved regularly in the sport following HBO’s decision to exit Boxing at the end of 2018. While Showtime also has established consistency in putting out quality cards for its viewers, it still relies on the pay-per-view model for its biggest fights. This creates an obvious roadblock in a potential fight being made as one platform has proven it does not need pay-per-view to be successful, but the other still sees it as profitable.

Without going into all the elements that could factor into such negotiations, this is a scenario that has led to some significant fights in Boxing history being delayed and ultimately leaving the Boxing fan feeling disappointed when a major fight finally does occur. The most recent example of this was the May 2015 encounter between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao. A fight that was a co-production pay-per-view main event between Showtime and HBO, but one where consumers were asked to pay $100 to see the broadcast.

A consistent criticism that Yours truly here’s on occasion with regard to the sport is how the sport of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) tends to put on fights that fans want to see in a more timely manner than happens in Boxing. Although I do not want to get on a debate regarding that subject as MMA like Boxing also has its flaws, it is clear that when a fan is asked to spend that kind of money on a card where the main event under delivers, it turns people off. This is one reason among many why I am supportive of a digital subscription-based model as compared to pay-per-view for the simple reason that a consumer receives more content in one month than they do paying significantly more for one card on a per card basis.

We will have to see what the future holds for Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua, but this observer hopes that for once what is good for the sport and more specifically the fighters takes priority over the interests of others who can, but hopefully won’t stand in the way of a major fight like this from happening. If a potential fight between Wilder and Joshua does take place and the Boxing fan does not have to pay an inflated fee to see it, even better.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Follow Beau Denison on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Beau_Denison




Friday, May 17, 2019

Thunderdome 30 Results From Perth, Australia


Credit: Fite TV

Rising Jr. Lightweight prospect Jackson England scored an impressive first round knockout of veteran Rivo Rengkung on Friday night at the Metro City Nightclub in Perth, Australia. The fight, which was the main event of a nine fight card in the thirtieth anniversary edition of Dragon Fire Boxing’s popular Thunderdome Boxing series, was over before it could really begin.

England dropped Rengkung with a left hook to the jaw. Although Rengkung was able to beat the count, the seventy-two bout veteran had a dejected look on his face and it appeared as though it was only a matter of time. After being dropped with a body shot moments later, Rengkung got up from the second knockdown, but turned his back to the referee. Seeing Rengkung did not want to continue, the fight was stopped at 1:58 of round one.

Jackson England advances to 9-1, with 5 Knockouts. Rivo Rengkung falls to 37-30-6, with 14 Knockouts.


In the Lightweight division undefeated rising prospect Clint Hosking scored a workmanlike six round unanimous decision over veteran Arief Blader. Hosking dictated the fight from start to finish and out boxed the durable Blader to earn the victory. Clint Hosking advances to 12-0, with 3 Knockouts. Arief Blader falls to 23-33-3, with 8 Knockouts.

In the Women’s Jr. Middleweight division current Australian Welterweight champion Kylie Hutt scored a five round unanimous decision over Janay Harding. Hutt was the consistent aggressor throughout the fight and frequently got the better of exchanges between the two fighters. Kylie Hutt advances to 4-1-2, with 2 Knockouts. Janay Harding falls to 1-4, with 1 Knockout.

Undefeated Middleweight Jesse White scored a four round unanimous decision over Brice Roullo. White controlled the combat with his jab and used his athletic style to keep Roullo from being able to be effective. White was credited with a knockdown in the final round, which appeared to be a slip. Jesse White advances to 4-0, with 0 Knockouts. Brice Roullo falls to 3-9-3, with 1 Knockout.


In a battle of unbeaten Welterweights, Binny Folan scored a sixth round knockout over Anthony Hawkins. Folan scored a total of four knockdowns over the course of the six round bout until the fight was finally stopped at :28 of the final round. Binny Folan advances to 5-0, with 1 Knockout. Anthony Hawkins falls to 1-1, with 0 Knockouts.

In the Jr. Flyweight division Michael Kaplan scored an impressive second round stoppage of a debuting Amit Thapa. Kaplan dominated the action from the opening bell and knocked Thapa’s mouthpiece out with a flush right hand to the head in round two. Following a standing eight count of Thapa moments later Kaplan was able to force a stoppage at 2:00 of the round. Michael Kaplan advances to 8-1, with 1 Knockout. Amit Thapa falls to 0-1, with 0 Knockouts.

Featherweight Richard Lockett scored a second round stoppage over a debuting Sandeep Bagri. Lockett forced the action in the opening round consistently forcing Bagri back on the ropes. Lockett’s near non-stop pressure and punches eventually seemed to open a cut on Bagri’s head. The end came when Bagri appeared to signal to the referee that he wanted a time out, the referee subsequently stopped the fight at 2:10 of round two. Richard Lockett advances to 3-1, with 2 Knockouts. Sandeep Bagri falls to 0-1, with 0 Knockouts.


In the Heavyweight division, Troy Humbertson outworked a “Game” Hayden Wright to win a four round unanimous decision. Troy Humbertson advances to 2-1, with 1 Knockout. Hayden Wright falls to 2-10, with 2 Knockouts.


In a three round Super-Middleweight competitive exhibition bout which opened the card   Adam Milnes scored a three round unanimous decision over Mohammed Alshikshaker. Milnes scored a knockdown in the second round of what was a fast-paced bout between two fighters who were making their ring debuts.

This card, which was promoted by Tony Toij’s Dragon Fire Boxing featured a look at some of the rising prospects to come out of the Boxing hotbed of Australia. With fighters like Tim Tszyu and Andrew and Jason Moloney continuing to climb the ranks of the sport, it will be interesting to see if fighters like Jackson England, Clint Hosking, and Kylie Hutt to name a few will be able to take another step towards the world level of competition in their future bouts.

With all three walking out of this card winners, Tim Tszyu’s victory over Joel Camilleri earlier this week to win the Australian Jr. Middleweight championship, and the Moloney brothers signing with promoter Bob Arum’s Top Rank, Inc., the future is indeed bright for Australian Boxing.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

For more information about Dragon Fire Boxing Promotions please visit Dragon Fire Boxing’s official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/DragonFireBoxing.

Thunderdome 30 poster courtesy of Fite TV. Used with permission. For more information about Fite TV and to order Thunderdome 30 on demand please visit: www.Fite.TV.

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Follow Beau Denison on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Beau_Denison


Thursday, May 16, 2019

The Next Chapter For Deontay Wilder



When one thinks of a new chapter in a fighter’s career often the scenario that will come to mind is one where a fighter is looking to bounce back from a loss. There are times however, where an undefeated fighter looks to move on from what some saw was a controversial ending in their previous fight. Undefeated WBC Heavyweight world champion Deontay Wilder is about to take such a step.

In what was one of the most anticipated fights of 2018, Wilder defended his portion of the World Heavyweight championship against undefeated former Heavyweight champion Tyson Fury last December in Los Angeles, CA. Wilder, who has a reputation as one of the Heavyweight division’s feared “Knockout Artists “ was given the most significant test of his career thus far by the Awkward and bigger Fury. Fury’s awkwardness and movement appeared to give the champion trouble. Despite appearing to be behind on the scorecards, Wilder was able to make up ground by scoring two knockdowns of the 6’9 Fury. The first of the two knockdowns came in the ninth round, but it was the second knockdown in the twelfth and final round that turned heads and nearly turned what appeared to be a decision win in favor of Fury to a dramatic knockout for Wilder.

A right, left combination from Wilder sent Fury down on his back on the canvas. Although it appeared Fury was out, the former champion managed to beat the count and made it to the final bell. As dramatic as the knockdown in the final round was, as miraculous as Fury’s ability to get up from the canvas was, what the dominant topic of discussion at the end of that fight was the outcome. A split decision draw.

While the decision was seen as controversial by some, this observer did not feel that was as I expressed in my coverage of that fight. It is hard to argue however, that the two knockdowns Wilder was able to score played a significant part in his being able to retain his world championship. A chapter in the Heavyweight championship reign that has left a question mark will have to be continued at a later date as Wilder’s next title defense will not be against Fury in a rematch as Wilder will make the ninth defense of his WBC crown on Saturday night against top contender and former world title challenger Dominic Breazeale at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY.

Although there are plenty of circumstances that could be discussed, which led to this fight being made, this column will focus strictly on the fight itself. Like most encounters in the Heavyweight division, this will be a battle between two big men who are capable of scoring a knockout should the opportunity arise. This fight will also pit two former Olympians against each other for a portion of the World Heavyweight championship.

In Dominic Breazeale Wilder will face a fighter with a respectable record of 20-1, with 18 Knockouts having registered a career knockout percentage of 86%. This is in some ways a glaring statistic due to Wilder having scored knockouts in thirty-nine of his forty-one professional fights registering a career knockout percentage of 95%, a percentage that he currently shares with the only other current world champion in the division undefeated unified world champion Anthony Joshua, who has scored knockouts in twenty-one of his twenty-two career wins. If one were to base their opinion as to what may happen in this fight based strictly on statistics, it would be perhaps “Smart” to suggest that there might be a knockout.

In Breazeale’s lone career defeat, his previous world title shot against Anthony Joshua he was stopped in seven rounds in June 2016. Although Breazeale came out on the losing end of that fight, he was very “Game” and gave a good account of himself in being able to hang in there against a fighter who like Wilder is known as a “Knockout Artist.” Since the defeat nearly 3 years ago, Breazeale has won three straight fights and has scored knockouts in each one of those bouts.

The key to this fight in my eyes will be how Breazeale approaches Wilder. It is important to remember that even though Wilder did retain his title against Tyson Fury last December and remains the longest reigning world champion in the division as a result, there are those who feel that Wilder did not win that fight or deserved a draw. Based on this it is logical for one to expect that the champion will want to make a statement in his first outing since that fight to perhaps answer any skeptics that remain.

While I do not want to focus on what occurred outside the ring in terms of the business of the sport as a relates to Deontay Wilder in recent months, it is worth noting that there is a possibility that Breazeale may feel overlooked. Overlooked due to both the demand for a rematch between Wilder and Fury as well as on-again, off-again negotiations for a unification bout between Wilder and Joshua that would determine one Undisputed World Heavyweight champion. Despite the loss to Anthony Joshua, Breazeale has worked his way back into contention and will enter this fight rated number four in the world in the World Boxing Council (WBC) ratings.

If Wilder is in any way distracted over talks of what would be either a big money rematch against Tyson Fury or an encounter with Anthony Joshua for all the marbles in the Heavyweight division, it could play into Breazeale’s hands as he attempts to upset any potential plans Wilder might have beyond this fight. How can Breazeale accomplish this?

First and foremost I believe it will be to his benefit to take a tactical approach. As devastating as Deontay Wilder has been throughout his career, he has at times been known to miss wildly with punches and this is something that Tyson Fury was able to take advantage of in their fight last December. Although when one thinks of an encounter between two big Heavyweights the term “Tactical” does not always come to mind, this is still the sport of Boxing and a fighter who implements a tactical strategy more often than not has success. Both these fighters are equal in terms of height at 6’7, but Wilder has a two-inch reach advantage of 83” to Breazeale’s 81”.

It is indeed at times easier said than done when discussing a fighter’s fight plan and how they will be able to implement it as someone who does not have to enter the ring, but given Wilder’s style, which is very aggressive and has been known to end fights suddenly, I believe Breazeale must box if he is going to be successful in this fight. Tyson Fury’s awkwardness and lateral movement were successful in making Deontay Wilder miss with several wide punches throughout their encounter. Although Breazeale does not have a style similar to Tyson Fury, one way he can attempt to have success is by playing the role of counter puncher in looking to make Wilder miss and take advantage of any opening that is left.

Breazeale does have punching power in his own right, but I do not believe going into a toe to toe slugfest with a fighter like Wilder will be successful. Breazeale must avoid being a stationary target and look to out box Wilder over the course of the fight. While not necessarily the most entertaining strategy in the eyes of some fans, this could prove to be successful if Breazeale implements this type of approach.

The champion meanwhile must avoid throwing roundhouse, wild punches that will leave him open to being countered. Although Tyson Fury was able to have success in using his lateral movement against Wilder, the champion was able to land more frequently as he shortened his punches as the fight went on. Although the outcome of that fight remains a subject of debate among both Boxing fans and experts, Wilder must take from that fight what is available for him to learn from and implement it in future fights. One aspect of offense that I believe would serve the champion well is the use of a consistent jab. The jab is the most elementary of punches that a fighter learns, but it is a weapon that if used properly can be effective in not only winning rounds on scorecards, but also setting up potential knockouts.

Deontay Wilder has been one of the more devastating Heavyweights to come along in recent memory due to his punching power. If he were to implement more technique into his offense and learn from what Tyson Fury was able to do against him in their fight, he would become even more dangerous in this observer’s eyes.

Although Wilder had what amounted to be a “Close Call” against Tyson Fury, he must approach this fight as a new chapter. What I mean by that is to not necessarily go in looking to score a “Devastating KO” or to look to land one fight ending punch. An impressive performance no matter how it comes will serve the champion well if he is able to win this fight. If Wilder goes in intent on scoring a knockout, he might leave himself open to become the latest fighter to suffer an upset loss. An upset that if it indeed happens it will definitely have a major impact on any and all future plans that might be in the works for the Heavyweight division.

We will see what happens when these two Heavyweights square off for a portion of the World Heavyweight championship on Saturday night.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

Wilder vs. Breazeale takes place on Saturday, May 18th at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY. The fight can be seen in the United States on Showtime beginning at 9 PM ET/6 PM PT across cable and satellite providers and will also be streamed on both the Showtime and Showtime Anytime apps. For more information about Showtime, Showtime Sports, the Showtime and Showtime Anytime apps and schedules please visit: www.SHO.com. For more information about Wilder-Breazeale including the undercard please visit: www.PremierBoxingChampions.com

In the United Kingdom and Ireland, the fight can be seen on Sky Sports Main Event (Formerly Sky Sports 1) on Sunday, May 19 beginning at 2 AM (Local UK Time.) For more information about Sky Sports including schedules and availability in your area please visit: www.SkySports.com. Check your local listings internationally.

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Follow Beau Denison on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Beau_Denison

Wednesday, May 15, 2019

Jason Moloney Discusses Cesar Ramirez Clash


Credit: Team Moloney 
Press Release: May 15, 2019 By Team Moloney – Jason Moloney discusses Cesar Ramirez clash on June 15 at The Seagulls Stadium, sharing a bill with brother Andrew and potential world title clash with Libero Solis

Jason Moloney 18-1 is staying focused as he waits for a shot at the World Bantamweight title, as it has been announced that he will face off against current WBC Fecombox Champion Cesar Ramirez 17-3 on June 15 at the Seagulls Stadium, Tweeds Head, Australia. 

Moloney is eyeing a fight for the WBA World Bantamweight strap, with a possibility of a WBA World title becoming available in the aftermath of Naoya Inoue’s contest in the World Boxing Super Series this weekend being very likely. 


Moloney discussed potentially fighting for the WBA World title and his clash on June 15 at the Seagulls Stadium against the tough Mexican, Ramirez defending his WBA Oceania Bantamweight title over 10 rounds. 


‘The Smooth One’ said, “Firstly I am absolutely delighted to be a part of a massive Dragon Fire, Boxing Mania event at the Seagulls Stadium, and it is very special that I will be co main eventing with my brother Andrew for possibly the last time. 


“I am very thankful to my manager Tony Tolj and the team at Dragon Fire Boxing for making this special event a reality.”


Moloney continued, “Cesar Ramirez is no joke, he holds a WBC title currently, he can punch and he has pushed top class fighters like Ryan Burnett so he is an opponent not to be overlooked and I certainly won’t be overlooking him. 


“I’m expecting to win of course, but I’m looking to show that I’m world class fighter who is a world champion in waiting on June 15 and I believe I will.” 


Moloney continue to elaborate, opening up about a potential clash with Libero Solis for the WBA World Bantamweight title. 


The Gold Coast resident said, “Yes, Solis is the fight myself and my team are eyeing and I believe it’s a realistic fight that can happen in either Australia and the USA. 


“Solis is a real fighter but I am a real fighter too and if that fight happens it is a real world title fight. Two world class fighters at the top of their game is what world title fights are all about, and I believe me and Solis would put on a fantastic show but it would result in Jason Moloney becoming world champion.” 

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Team Moloney Used with permission.



The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Friday, May 10, 2019

Thoughts On Alvarez-Jacobs And What Comes Next



The Middleweight unification bout between Saul “Canelo” Alvarez and Daniel Jacobs was much-anticipated. Anticipated because like most “Big” or “Mega” fights, this unification fight pitted two of the best fighters not only in their division, but in the entire sport against each other with both putting their respective claims to a world championship, in this case the World Middleweight championship on the line. A fight like this also had something unique going for it that in a way set it apart from other battles like this throughout the history of the sport. Instead of an encounter like this being sold on a pay-per-view basis as many similar bouts over the last thirty years have been, this unification bout was the first “Major” fight to be offered exclusively on an Over The Top (OTT) digital streaming network platform.

As readers might recall, this observer penned a column that was released here at The Boxing Truth® back in December 2015 titled “Is It Time For “Big Time”Boxing To Go Over The Top?” A column that discussed the rise of OTT digital distribution and the rise of streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video to name a few. The primary intention of that column now going on four years ago was to illustrate the potential the growing OTT realm had for the sport of Boxing and the sports genre as a whole. In the years since I wrote that column, a regular theme here on the website has been the continued growth of streaming platforms and how the sport should gradually shift toward the future and away from the traditional “Pay-Per-View” medium, which yours truly has called an overpriced and undervalued model.  While I don’t want to go into every aspect that I covered in that column, I did conclude the column by saying “Even though seeing Boxing’s next “Big” or “Super” fight offered on an OTT basis to consumers may appear to be wishful thinking in the eyes of some, as the trend of “Cord-Cutting” continues to grow one can only imagine the potential audience that Boxing’s next marquee event could be missing out on. It is something that the powers that be in the sport should consider.”

As most Boxing fans know, the growth of streaming as a preferred choice of consumers has only continued to grow in the  years since I wrote that column. Boxing fans are also likely aware that the year 2018 saw a major shift in terms of the broadcast options that are available to consumers, which will over time have a significant impact on the pay-per-view medium. The advent of digital sports subscription-based streaming networks ESPN+ and DAZN.

Two digital streaming network platforms that have served as game changers for Boxing as well as all of sports. Although readers who regularly read the work of this observer are likely aware of the coverage I have provided regarding both networks, for the purposes of this column, we will be focusing on DAZN.

DAZN, (Pronounced DA-Zone) which initially launched internationally in 2016, officially entered the U.S. market in September of last year. In the time since their entrance into the U.S. market, DAZN has quickly become one of Boxing’s major players and has served as a viable competitor to traditional cable/satellite networks as well as the pay-per-view medium. Despite providing great value staging multiple cards per month all included with a DAZN subscription with multiple promoters and their respective stables to Boxing fans, there remains a segment of fan that remains skeptical to the changing times. One complaint yours truly has heard on more than one occasion has been a perceived lack of cards deemed pay-per-view level or “PPV quality” for short. While I as I have said in the past disagree with this, the first event for DAZN that most would call pay-per-view due to the anticipation of the event took place on May 4th  at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, NV as Saul “Canelo” Alvarez met Daniel Jacobs. Two world champions putting their respective crowns on the line to further unify the 160lb. Middleweight division.

While this fight also pitted two of the best fighters in the world against each other, this also was an interesting clash of styles between two boxer/punchers. In previewing this fight, I stated that it was crucial in my mind that Jacobs impose his will on Alvarez early in the fight given his naturally bigger size. Although Jacobs did not implement this strategy, it was not surprising to see a tactical fight fought between the two fighters.

While I do not want to give the reader a long drawn out round by round analysis of this fight as it might be too complex for some, this was what one would think of when they think of a close battle between two highly skilled boxers. As is often the case when it comes to close fights as this observer has said frequently over the years, it will often come down to what a judge prefers in their own individual criteria based on clean punching, effective aggression, ring generalship, and defense. It can however, be a challenge for both those watch a fight as well as those scoring a fight to determine who got the better of the action particularly in rounds where both fighters are able to have periods of success. Rounds that are commonly referred to within the sport as “Swing Rounds” where what can determine who wins a round could come down to a moment, a notable punch, and can have varying opinions as to who got the upper hand.


The challenge in this fight was in part to distinguish a fighter’s overall activity from what may have been more effective. From my perspective it appeared while Jacobs was the more active of the two in spots, it was Alvarez who seemed to land the harder punches throughout the fight. This resulted in my scoring several close rounds that were on the table in Alvarez’ favor. It did not however, take away Jacobs’ ability to be dangerous and effective in spots including nailing Alvarez with a flush left hook to the jaw in the ninth round that was attention-grabbing. Quite frankly the type of left hook that Jacobs was able to land would have knocked many Middleweights down if not have been a fight ender for some.

Although Jacobs landed the punch of the fight in my eyes, Alvarez showed he had the ability to take it and this in addition to Jacobs not seeming to land more telling blows consistently led to him losing this fight in my opinion as I ended up scoring the fight 117-111 or nine rounds to three in favor of Alvarez. Two of three official judges scored the fight 115-113 or seven rounds to five in Alvarez’ favor, while the third judge scored it 116-112 or eight rounds to four making Alvarez the winner by unanimous decision at the end of the twelve round world championship unification bout.

What can be a misunderstanding about a scorecard that gives the impression of a lopsided fight in the eyes of some, such as my 117-111 score of this fight, is it can give the wrong impression as to how competitive and close a fight can be round by round. Speaking only for myself, if two of those close “Swing Rounds” that I ended up scoring for Alvarez particularly in the first half of the fight had been scored the other way, I would have arrived with a 115-113 (7-5) scorecard at the end of the fight. In short, Daniel Jacobs simply left too many rounds on the table to win this fight, in my opinion.

As for what comes next for both Alvarez and Jacobs, there are some interesting possibilities that could be open to both. For the former IBF Middleweight world champion Daniel Jacobs, I believe it is logical to think that he will now attempt to move up to the 168lb. Super-Middleweight division where he will likely be in the discussion for some lucrative fights against some of the top fighters the division has to offer. Who Jacobs might face first as a Super-Middleweight is anyone’s guess, but I would like to see him face someone who is viewed as a fringe contender to test the waters at the higher weight before setting his sights on challenging for a world title in a second weight class.

For Saul Alvarez, all attention will now be focused on the June 8th bout between former longtime Middleweight world champion Gennady Golovkin and undefeated contender Steve Rolls, which will take place at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY. If Golovkin is successful against Rolls, the logical next step would be a third encounter between Golovkin and Alvarez.

While Alvarez himself could move up again in weight to the Super-Middleweight division or, look to a fight with undefeated WBO Middleweight world champion Demetrius Andrade, in a fight that would be for the Undisputed Middleweight world championship, there is likely more demand for a third fight with Gennady Golovkin at the present time. More demand after two highly competitive fights that are still the subject of debate as to who won those battles among Boxing fans, but more specifically demand from a different entity.

This brings us back to DAZN. DAZN has invested significantly in Boxing, but a challenge that the network will face as a subscription-based digital network that is aiming to end the pay-per-view model in the sport is to continue to look to put on fights that will be in demand. While this is a subject that can change frequently depending on one’s perspective, the network has been wise to invest in several promoters in the sport and to not for lack of a better term put all their eggs in one basket. Among the fighters that have signed with DAZN in addition to Alvarez is Gennady Golovkin.

As most Boxing fans know, the first two bouts between Alvarez and Golovkin were each main events on pay-per-view cards broadcast under the now inactive HBO Pay-Per-View banner with each card being sold to the public for $70. With both fighters now fighting under the DAZN banner and with unfinished business between the two to be resolved, it makes all the sense in the world that the network would want to stage a third fight as not only a major event for its network platform, but for it to be used as a way to further drive home the value of the subscription-based model as compared to the pay-per-view model.

One of the major news stories to come out in the days following Alvarez’ victory over Daniel Jacobs was the announcement from DAZN that 1.2 million subscribers viewed the event. When one factors in that traditional pay-per-view numbers have generally declined with few exceptions in the last decade, this is an indication that the sport is moving in the right direction by adapting a reasonable cost subscription-based direct to consumer option compared to the model of pay-per-view. If a third encounter between Alvarez and Golovkin is not in the works for later this year, of course assuming Golovkin gets by Steve Rolls, there is one alternative that I believe will satisfy Boxing fans if a third fight is not made until some time in 2020.

Demetrius Andrade, the undefeated WBO champion is currently rumored to defend his crown in the summer. Although yours truly doesn’t necessarily like to gossip on rumors, if Andrade does indeed defend his portion of the World Middleweight championship in the summer and is successful, and if Golovkin is successful against Steve Rolls, a viable option could be for Andrade to face Golovkin later this year with the winner facing Alvarez for the Undisputed Middleweight crown in 2020. While there obviously is no guarantee that Golovkin will defeat Rolls then go on to face and defeat Andrade, if such a scenario were to happen and ultimately result in another chapter in the Alvarez-Golovkin rivalry, it would make the third encounter even bigger as it would be a “Winner Take All” scenario where one world champion would finally be determined.

Such a scenario would also be in place for Andrade if he were to face and defeat Golovkin. For a fighter who up until recent times had had difficulty fighting frequently, this would pretty much resemble a winning lottery ticket for Andrade to go from being sporadically active, to becoming a world champion, to getting an opportunity to potentially face two of the top stars in the sport as a world champion.

How this will all play out remains to be seen. If however, all of this can take place in a relatively reasonable timeframe on DAZN’s platform and in the process also provide further exposure to rising prospects also competing on these cards, the real winners will continue to be DAZN subscribers and the sport in the long-term. Even though there were reports that some experienced problems streaming the Alvarez-Jacobs card, overall it was a win for the network and a significant sign of continued building momentum. If the network can set an example of continuing to put on solid cards for its subscribers, continue to look to put on fights where there is significant interest, and to be more specific do so in s reasonable timeframe, a frequent issue throughout the history of the sport when rival promoters and networks have been involved in staging major fights, it will force other networks and platforms to raise their game to put on the best fights and cards possible.

If it all results in the Boxing fan no longer being asked to pay an inflated fee for one Boxing card where said fan is only offered a portion of a full card for the price, it will be an even bigger win for the sport.



“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

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