Monday, August 31, 2020

Undefeated Jamshid Nazari Signs With Tony Tolj

 Press Release: August 31, 2020 By Dragon Fire Boxing – Jamshid Nazari the undefeated Norwegian Jr.

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

Welterweight has signed a management deal with Tony Tolj’s Dragon Fire Boxing. 

 

The Afghanistan born, Norwegian based fighter is 7-0 and is looking forward to jump back in the ring and resume his boxing career. Nazari trains with Henning Lillejord and Nils Kapstad at the Aik-Lund boxing club

 

“It means a lot to me and my career. I trust Tony and have seen his great work with his other boxers over these many years. He takes care of his boxers and improve them in world ranks and really cares for his boxers, that means a lot to me and us fighter.

 

I want to get to the top in world rankings and be a good role model for the new generation.

 

I know I have joined a great team and training harder than ever. I looking forward to get back in the ring and do what I love to do.”

 

Nazari a top amateur, with over 100 amateur fights which included 3-time Norwegian Champion, Nordic Champion, multiple international Gold Medallist, Haringey box cup gold medallist, Athlete of the year 2015

 

Oceania Manager of the year Tony Tolj added: "I am delighted to be working with Nazari now he's got the backing of Dragon Fire Boxing, I am confident we can take Nazari to the next level and build on his success."

 

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.

Saturday, August 29, 2020

Could Women’s Boxing Emerge Atop The Boxing World Following COVID-19?

 

The sport of Boxing, much like the rest of the world continues to deal with the impacts and uncertainty of the global COVID-19 epidemic. While much of the content penned by yours truly throughout 2020 here on The Boxing Truth®️ has obviously centered upon the circumstances and frankly negative aspects of the ongoing crisis, there has been good that has emerged out of a bad situation for all. Even though it has been an adjustment for some to get used to watching not only Boxing, but all sports currently active in an atmosphere without spectators, we have also been treated to great competition. For Boxing, the women of the sport have been able to take advantage of horrible circumstances and use the atmosphere of closed-door Boxing events to elevate themselves and Women’s Boxing as a whole.

 

Readers may be curious as to what I mean in making that statement. It is important to keep in mind as this observer has said numerous times in several writings over recent months that Boxing is in the midst of what was previously an unforeseen circumstance as is the rest of the world. Despite the sport taking gradual steps towards resuming activities akin to what Boxing is like throughout a normal calendar year, many of the sport’s top stars remain sidelined both due to financial reasons in likely not wanting to forgo a portion of revenue they might be entitled to from live gate attendance as well as justifiable concern over potential exposure to COVID-19. Due largely to this, several lucrative fights that could generate significant business for the sport remain in discussion for the future likely aimed for after the COVID-19 crisis significantly declines, whenever that might be. In the meantime, the women of Boxing have stepped up to provide competitive bouts, which have turned out to be some of the best fights since the sport began the process of trying to resume in June and has also produced some Fight of the Year candidates.

 

It is not and should be no secret to readers who have followed my work both online and in print over the last two decades that I have been and remain a strong supporter of Women’s Boxing. Unfortunately, up until recent years, the sport for women has not enjoyed the same level of exposure as compared to Men’s Boxing. While I could go on and on discussing some of the legends of Women’s Boxing as well as fighters who deserved more television exposure, particularly here in the United States for years up until the sport finally started being featured on a regular basis thanks largely to digital streaming networks like DAZN and cable networks like ESPN and Showtime, I’ll move on.

 

In the absence of what some Boxing fans would call marquee attractions, the women of Boxing have seized opportunity. For many years, fans have only been granted occasional access to Women’s Boxing, which I believe has negatively impacted the sport’s growth. One could make an argument that it wasn’t until the success of women in the sport of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) as well as the success and notoriety Claressa Shields, the only two-time Olympic Gold medalist in the history of United States Boxing, that Women’s Boxing started to receive long overdue attention. As most know, Shields has continued her success as a professional and has gone on to win world championships in multiple weight classes.

 

Unlike in years past however, recent times have seen women in the sport headlining several cards on global television platforms in a short span of time. Some may recall undefeated Jr. Lightweight contender Mikaela Mayer, who scored a dominant ten round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Helen Joseph during the month of July in the main event of a card broadcast by ESPN. Mayer, who scored her thirteenth victory as a professional maintained her standing in WBC and WBA’s respective Women’s ratings in the 130lb. Jr. Lightweight division as the number one contender recognized by both organizations and would appear to be nearing an opportunity to fight for a world championship in the near future.

 

What turned out to be a showcase for Mikaela Mayer in the month of July was followed by a series of separate women’s bouts during the month of August that frankly could compete with each other for Fight of the Year honors. Some may recall the grueling battle that marked the first time that two British women faced each other on British soil for a world championship when undefeated unified WBC/IBO Jr. Lightweight world champion Terri Harper engaged in a ten round war with 2012 British Olympian Natasha Jonas in a bout that was ultimately scored a split decision draw on August 7th. This would be followed the following week with two intriguing fights on consecutive nights that each made their respective claim as a Fight of the Year contender.

 

The first took place on August 14th in the same ring where the battle between Harper and Jonas took place in Brentwood, England as part of Matchroom Boxing’s “Fight Camp” series. A bout in the 126lb. Featherweight division between current contender and former three-time former world kickboxing champion Rachel Ball and undefeated prospect Shannon Courtenay. An eight round bout that saw the ebb and flow shift frequently throughout, but one that was decided by a knockdown in the first round against Courtenay that allowed Ball to earn a decision victory.

 

On August 15th, the action shifted to the streets of Tulsa, Oklahoma, where Matchroom Boxing’s United States promotional branch staged its first Boxing card since the COVID-19 epidemic began in the city’s downtown district on a closed street. The main event of this card featured the return of undefeated Undisputed World Welterweight champion Cecilia Braekhus attempting to defend her title for the twenty-sixth time against former world title challenger Jessica McCaskill.

 

Braekhus, known as the first lady of Women’s Boxing, is regarded as one of the sport’s top stars and had the historic distinction of being in the main event of the final Boxing card televised by United States cable network HBO as it exited its coverage of the sport after forty-five years in December 2018. As with many dominant world champions on the men’s side of the sport, the question that has followed Braekhus for several years was who could pose a challenge to her reign as the top fighter at 147lbs. Something that has also made Braekhus unique has, despite many women’s world champions throughout the sport moving up and down in weight to challenge for world championships as well as seeking more lucrative opportunities in a sport that is still growing, Brækhus has chose to remain in the 147lb. Welterweight division.

 

In Jessica McCaskill, Brækhus faced a former world title challenger who as a Lightweight gave Lightweight world champion Katie Taylor a stern test in December 2017. Despite McCaskill entertaining the bout with Brækhus with a record of 8-2, with 3 Knockouts, there was no dispute that the champion Cecilia Braekhus had a significant edge in terms of experience coming in unbeaten in thirty-six previous bouts. The question at least in my mind going into this fight was whether or not McCaskill could avoid being outworked over the course of the fight by a fighter in Brækhus who has an ability to win rounds in a similar manner as Katie Taylor, who had scored a unanimous decision over McCaskill. 

 

 

Although the fight between Brækhus and McCaskill saw many exchanges of offense between the two fighters throughout, what stood out to me was McCaskill’s overall offensive output in bringing the fight to the champion, consistently getting her punches off first, and seeming to get the better of the action when the two fighters would exchange in close on the inside. When it comes to close fights as I have often said through the years, it will often come down to what a judge prefers in their own criteria based on clean punching, effective aggressiveness, ring generalship, and defense. In some cases,  particularly in Women’s Boxing due to the two minute duration of rounds, it can be difficult to distinguish who has the upper hand in a close fight such as this was.

 

From my perspective, it was the small things that stood out that ultimately proved to be the difference as McCaskill would defeat Brækhus via ten round majority decision bringing an end to Brækhus’ decade-long reign atop the Welterweight division in becoming the new Undisputed Welterweight world champion. While a rematch between McCaskill and Brækhus could happen down the line and one could argue is warranted based not only on Brækhus’ status as a longtime champion, but also how close the fight was between the two, it is perhaps an irony that the month of August for the women of the sport concluded with a different rematch, that could lead to another rematch for McCaskill.

 

The rematch between undefeated Undisputed Lightweight world champion Katie Taylor and Delfine Persoon. While yours truly provided a recap of that fight shortly after it concluded, I feel it necessary to address some criticism that was pointed in my direction for how I personally saw the fight in feeling it was a dominant performance for Katie Taylor in a fight that if one is objective, likely answered some skeptics, During the rematch, which took place on August 22nd in Brentwood, England, I as I regularly do, shared how I saw things across social media platforms and shared how I scored the fight as it was taking place.

 

While a difference of opinion as to how one sees a fight is a tradition as tried and true as the sport of Boxing itself, what can be overlooked at times particularly amongst casual fans is the criteria that is demonstrated throughout a fight, which more often than not plays a critical role in how a bout is scored. Although the rematch between Taylor and Persoon much like their first encounter was competitive from start to finish, what made it a dominant performance in my eyes for Taylor was how she executed an effective Boxing strategy by making her opponent miss, using lateral movement to maintain distance, effectively timed counter punching, and finally often throwing punches in combination when she let her hands go.

 

It was this strategy that differed significantly from the first fight in June of last year when Taylor was willing to stand and go toe to toe with Persoon in what was ultimately judged a close fight in Taylor’s favor. There were times throughout the rematch where Taylor appeared as though she was ready to forgo her tactical Boxing strategy and go toe to toe with Persoon, but for the most part, she remained disciplined and got a more clear victory the second time around in a fight that this observer had her winning eight rounds to two or 98-92 in points. While everyone is certainly entitled to their own view, this was my view as someone who has covered the sport of Boxing most of his life and as one who has scored countless fights unofficially as a part of that coverage on every level of Boxing amateur and professional.

 

Now that I have hopefully made my explanation on how I saw this rematch clear, one thing is also clear. Women’s Boxing continues to make significant steps forward. It is not out of the realm of possibility that we could see a rematch between Katie Taylor and Jessica McCaskill before the end of 2020 depending on the circumstances of COVID-19. It would also not surprise me to see a potential third fight between Taylor and Persoon at some point in the future. While Taylor’s victory in their second encounter was more definitive as compared to their first encounter, both fights were very competitive and one should not dismiss the idea that Persoon could find herself in line to fight Taylor again. As Women’s Boxing continues to grow with the increased exposure, hopefully along with growth will come the opportunity for these fighters to earn more lucrative opportunities. Something that should come with progress and for the women of Boxing, something that much like consistent television exposure is overdue.

 

“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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

Thoughts On Horn-Tszyu

 

Prior to March of this year, as is usually the case, the Boxing schedule was full of highly anticipated bouts that were scheduled to take place around the world. Of course, the global COVID-19 crisis that was becoming more and more a serious issue going back to late last year eventually became something that could not be dismissed and ultimately caused a halt to not only sports including Boxing, but also everyday life. In terms of Boxing, one of the anticipated encounters that was unfortunately put on hold was the bout between former WBO Welterweight champion Jeff Horn and undefeated rising contender Tim Tszyu, which was originally scheduled to take place during the month of April in Australia.

 

A grudge match between two of the top stars on the Australian/New Zealand Boxing scene. As is the case with most bouts between rivals, there has been a war of words between the fighters and their camps. In some ways, this would be a bout of youth versus experience. For former world champion Jeff Horn, who was now competing as a 154lb. Jr. Middleweight, this represented a bit of a crossroads fight after suffering some career setbacks.

 

It was not long ago that Horn made a major splash on the world stage by defeating future Hall of Famer Manny Pacquiao to win the WBO Welterweight world championship in July 2017. A victory that was seen by many particularly here in the United States as a controversial decision based largely on Pacquiao’s status as a legend in the sport as well as what was seen by some as questionable scoring with the fight taking place in Horn's hometown of Brisbane, Australia. Despite the view of some particularly amongst casual fans of the sport that Horn was unknown going into the fight with Pacquiao, he had earned status as a mandatory challenger prior to that fight and had given a good account of himself against one of Boxing’s all-time greats regardless of what one might feel about the scoring.

 

After one successful defense of the WBO crown, Horn would suffer the first loss of his career in losing the title to multi-division world champion Terence Crawford in June 2018. This was followed by a second setback two fights later when Horn lost to Michael Zerafa in August of last year as a Middleweight. Despite avenging his loss to Zerafa in his last fight in December of last year, questions remained regarding Horn. The basis of those questions in this observer’s view are rooted from the fact that Horn was stopped in his two career losses that came in a relatively short period of time.

 

In facing Tim Tszyu, Horn faced a fighter known as a “Knockout Artist.” Tszyu, the son of former longtime Jr. Welterweight world champion Kostya Tszyu has much like his father, carved a reputation for having an ability to end fights early having stopped even of his  fifteen previous opponents inside the distance. The question in my mind regarding Tim Tszyu as this fight neared was whether or not he was ready for a step up in caliber of opposition after such a quick rise. With COVID-19 very much still impacting the world, the delayed encounter between Horn and Tszyu would finally take place on Wednesday, August 26th in Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville, Australia before a crowd of limited capacity.

 

Under normal circumstances, I would question what effect if any would the atmosphere of fighting in a stadium before a massive crowd would have on a young fighter like Tszyu, who was fighting on a big stage like this for the first time. As has been the case since the sport began attempting to resume in June, I wondered what the effects of the ongoing COVID-19 crisis would have on both fighters in their respective preparations for this fight. I also wondered based on Tszyu’s record in scoring many of his knockouts inside of four rounds, whether he would look to jump on Horn from the outset.

 

In contrast to Tszyu, I expected Horn to try and use his experience to extend Tszyu into the middle and late rounds and provide him with a stern test. What occurred when the two fighters entered the ring can be described as ugly as Horn and Tszyu engaged in a fight that saw frequent grappling from the outset on the inside. While maybe not the most entertaining type of Boxing match to watch from a fan’s perspective, a fighter should do what they have to do within the rules to win the fight. In this instance that fighter was Tim Tszyu. 

 

By forcing the combat to occur on the inside where frankly, he had a grappling advantage over Horn, despite this not being a Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight or grappling competition, this allowed Tszyu to use his strength and by not giving Horn room to breath or any space where he could dictate the combat, this proved to be an effective strategy. As the fight progressed Tszyu began to have his way with the more experienced Horn and landed hard, thudding punches when the two fighters were not in close. In round three, Horn was sent to the canvas three times. Two of those instances were from Tszyu throwing him down in close, but one was an official knockdown from a flush left hook to the head.

 

This would be followed in round six when a left hook to the body of Horn forced the former world champion to take a knee in the second official knockdown of the fight. By this point in the bout, I was concerned for Jeff Horn’s well-being as it was clear that this was not his day and after the second knockdown, the fight was no longer competitive in my view and one fighter was gradually suffering a severe beating. The one-sided fight was finally and mercifully stopped by Horn’s corner after the eighth round.

 

What is the biggest win to date in the career of Tim Tszyu will likely allow him to move up in the International Boxing Federation (IBF) and World Boxing Organization (WBO) ratings in the 154lb. Jr. Middleweight division where he is currently rated in the top ten by both organizations. Whether or not this victory over a former world champion in Jeff Horn will catapult him into a world title opportunity within the next year or so remains to be seen, but a dominant victory over a fighter such as Horn will only continue to increase the buzz surrounding the rise of Tim Tszyu.

 

As for Jeff Horn, it may be tempting for some to say that he should consider retirement after suffering three knockout losses in a relatively short timeframe. It has never been my intention as a writer, journalist, and Boxing historian to tell a fighter when it is time to hang up the gloves. Only in the most severe circumstances over the years has this observer said publicly that a fighter should consider retiring. This I would not consider a severe circumstance, but I will say that at minimum Horn should take time to allow his body to heal and then re-evaluate his options, Horn has after all been an active fighter since beating Manny Pacquiao three years ago and the body does take a physical toll from fights that are won as it does from fights that are lost. Depending on what Horn and those around him decide what is best for him at this point in his career, perhaps a long rest to allow himself to adequately recover both physically and mentally could be what he needs before deciding what he does next.

 

“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

Sunday, August 23, 2020

Povetkin KO’s Whyte In 5

 

Former Heavyweight world title challenger and longtime contender Alexander Povetkin scored a devastating one punch fifth round knockout over longtime WBC number one Heavyweight contender Dillian Whyte on Saturday night at the home of Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn dubbed Matchroom Headquarters in Brentwood, England. After a tactical start to the fight over the first three rounds where both fighters had periods of effectiveness in landing punches to the body and head, the turning point appeared to come in round four when Whyte would score a knockdown of Povetkin with a short left hook to the head early in the round. Povetkin would be knocked down in the latter stages of round four with a short counter left uppercut to the head. Although these were what are known as “Flash Knockdowns” where Povetkin did not appear hurt and was knocked down by punches he did not see, it did appear that the momentum was in Whyte’s favor going into round five.

 

It would be in round five however, where the fight would come to a sudden and dramatic conclusion. After being dropped twice in the previous round, Povetkin would quickly respond  by rolling under a punch from Whyte and coming up with a perfectly timed left uppercut to the head of his own that landed flush and momentarily knocked Whyte out cold on the canvas prompting an immediate end to the fight with no count from Referee Mark Lyson. Official time of the stoppage was :30 of round five. Alexander Povetkin advances to 36-2-1, with 25 Knockouts. Dillian Whyte falls to 27-2, with 18 Knockouts. 

 

 

Also on this card:

 

In a highly anticipated rematch for the Undisputed Women’s Lightweight world championship, undefeated champion Katie Taylor retained her title with a ten round unanimous decision over former WBC Lightweight world champion Delfine Persoon. Unlike their first encounter which took place in Madison Square Garden in June of last year, that saw the two fighters engage in a toe to toe battle, the story of this fight was largely how Taylor used her lateral movement, combination punching, and well-timed counter punching to out box Persoon. Although there were times particularly over the second half of the bout where Taylor did trade punches with Persoon, she remained disinclined throughout this rematch and her edge in both hand speed and lateral movement, as well as ability to make Persoon miss and Persoon’s inability to nullify Taylor’s movement, is what allowed the champion to box her way to a convincing unanimous decision victory. Official scores were 98-93, and 96-94 (On two scorecards) all in favor of Taylor. Katie Taylor advances to 16-0, with 6 Knockouts. Delfine Persoon falls to 44-3, with 18 Knockouts.

 

 

Super-Middleweights Zak Chelli and Jack Cullen fought to a controversial ten round split decision draw. Throughout this contest, Chelli appeared to be the fighter landing more effective punches, by using an awkward style to attack Cullen in spurts. Cullen however, was effective in spots where he was able to use his reach to control distance. At the end of the ten round bout, two official judges were split in their scoring of the fight with the third judge scoring the fight even resulting in a split decision draw. Official scores were 97-93 (Chelli), 96-95 (Cullen), and 95-95 (Even). Zak Chelli advances to 7-1-1, with 3 Knockouts. Jack Cullen advances to 18-2-1, with 9 Knockouts.

 

 

Undefeated Welterweight prospect Chris Kongo scored a ninth round stoppage over Luther Clay. What was a competitive fight throughout, Clay generally out worked Kongo, but it was Kongo who had the edge in power. In round five the momentum shifted in Kongo’s favor as a barrage of punches that had Clay staggered against the ropes appeared to have Clay on the verge of being stopped. Clay was able to recover and did manage to regain his position as being the busier of the two fighters. In round nine however, another barrage from Kongo highlighted by a left hook to the head sent Clay down to the canvas and the fight was stopped. Official time of the stoppage was 2:44 of round nine. Chris Kongo advances to 12-0, with 7 Knockouts. Luther Clay falls to 13-2, with 5 Knockouts.

 

 

Undefeated Heavyweight Alen Babic scored the fourth victory of his career by scoring a second round knockout over Shawndell Winters.From the opening bell, Babic was relentless in pressuring Winters and brought the fight to him. A flush left hook from Babic sent Winters into the ropes in the first round, which was ruled a knockdown as Winters was preventing from going down to the canvas by the ropes. The all out assault of wild swinging hooks from Babic sent Winters down fully to the canvas in the second round and the bout was justifiably stopped. Official time of the stoppage was 2:20 of round two. Alen Babic advances to 4-0, with 4 Knockouts. Shawndell Winters falls to 13-4, with 12 Knockouts.

 

This card, which was for the moment the finale of a series of cards that have taken place over the month of August from Matchroom Headquarters dubbed “Fight Camp” brought a dramatic end to what has been an extremely competitive series of cards. While Matchroom Boxing have truly made the best of a situation forced upon all due to the ongoing COVID-19 global epidemic, it remains unclear whether or not the “Fight Camp” concept will continue and the answer to that question will likely be determined by the circumstances of the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.

 

In terms of the conclusion of the main event of this card, it was another in a long list of examples of what this observer has said frequently over the many years I have covered the sport. “Anything Can Happen At Any Given Time In The Sport Of Boxing, And That Is What Makes The Sport So Great.” To follow the all too familiar line from yours truly, one should always expect the unexpected.

 

As for what will come out of this fight, Alexander Povetkin now finds himself in the mandatory challenger position to face the winner of the upcoming third encounter between undefeated two-time Heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury, current holder of the WBC Heavyweight world championship and former WBC world champion Deontay Wilder. With that fight currently waiting to be scheduled amidst the COVID-19 crisis, the more likely scenario at least for the short-term is for Povetkin to face Whyte again in a contractually mandated rematch, which promoter Eddie Hearn indicated following the fight would be invoked and for the winner of that fight to face the winner of Fury-Wilder III. As is the case with what goes on inside the Boxing ring however, truly anything can happen and it will be as much to do with the circumstances of COVID-19 as it will the business end of the sport to figure out what will happen next.

 

“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, August 21, 2020

Shishkin Stops Riojas In 9

 

Undefeated Super-Middleweight prospect Vladimir Shishkin took another step towards world title contention by scoring a ninth round stoppage of veteran contender Oscar Riojas on Thursday night at the legendary Kronk Gym in Detroit, MI. Shishkin’s approach in this fight was systematic in that he applied pressure on Riojas, but used effective foot work to control distance and was gradually able to pick his shots. As the fight progressed, Shishkin was able to gradually put more pop on his punches to the head and body of Riojas. Although Riojas was very “Game “, did his best to hang in against the unbeaten prospect, and did occasionally land offense throughout, he was unable to turn the momentum in his favor and could not land anything to discourage Shishkin from coming forward or from being able to dictate the combat. In round nine a flush right hand to the head dropped Riojas. Riojas was able to beat the count, but Shishkin sensing his opponent was compromised pressed forward and with Riojas unable to intelligently defend himself, the fight was stopped. Official time of the stoppage was :48 of round nine. Vladimir Shishkin advances to 11-0, with 7 Knockouts. Oscar Riojas falls to 21-14-1, with 10 Knockouts.

 

Also on this card:

 

In the first of two Middleweight bouts on the card, in the first bout of the evening undefeated Marlon Harrington made short work of a debuting Ricardo Medina in the first round. Marlon Harrington Almost immediately put Medina down with a flush left hook to the head shortly after the opening bell. Harrington would go on to score two additional knockdowns of Medina with left hooks to the head before the fight was stopped. Official time of the stoppage was 1:02 of round one. Marlon Harrington advances to 2-0, with 2 Knockouts. Ricardo Medina falls to 0-1, with 0 Knockouts.

 

This would be followed by the co-main event of the evening where undefeated prospect Timur Kerefov scored an eight round unanimous decision over veteran Calvin Metcalf. In what was the United States debut for Kerefov, he was able to showcase lateral movement and execute his offense in crisp and compact fashion by throwing short combinations to the body and head throughout the eight round bout against the experienced and durable Metcalf that will likely help in his development as he looks to progress in his career. Official scores were 80-72 (On all three scorecards) in favor of Kerefov. Timur Kerefov advances to 9-0, with 4 Knockouts. Calvin Metcalf falls to 10-5-1, with 3 Knockouts.

 

 

Heavyweight Jeremiah Milton successfully made his professional debut by scoring a first round knockout of Dennis Vance. A right hand to the temple sent Vance down in an awkward fashion and Vance was unable to beat the ten count. Official time was 1:15 of round one. Jeremiah Milton advances to 1-0, with 1 Knockout. Dennis Vance falls to 1-2, with 1 Knockout.

 

 

In a bout between debuting Welterweights, Morris Young scored a second round stoppage of Jader Alves de Oliveira. Young was in control from the opening bell, despite facing an extremely unorthodox opponent. Young was able to pick his spots and after battering Alves de Oliveira with several body punches, the fight was stopped in the second round. Official time of the stoppage was 1:59 of round two. Morris Young advances to 1-0, with 1 Knockout. Jader Alves de Oliveira falls to 0-1, with 0 Knockouts. 

 

In the Women’s Cruiserweight division, Danielle Perkins successfully made her professional debut by out working previously undefeated Monika Harrison over four rounds to earn a four round unanimous decision. Official scores were: 40-35 (On all three scorecards) in favor of Perkins. Danielle Perkins advances to 1-0, with 0 Knockouts. Monika Harrison falls to 2-1-1, with 1 Knockout.

 

This card featured a look at the new generation of fighters that are honing their craft in the legendary Kronk Gym in Detroit. A venue rich in Boxing history as a place who’s stable of fighters have dominated the sport over many decades. The Kronk Gym will always be associated with the legacy of the late great Hall of Fame trainer Emanuel Steward. This event, which was promoted by Salita Promotions and broadcast globally on the UFC Fight Pass digital streaming network, was the first professional Boxing card to take place in the Kronk Gym was as good an  illustration as any that Steward’s legacy lives on and with the leadership of Steward’s nephew Sugar Hill, there is no doubt that the Kronk Gym will continue to produce top contenders and world champions for many years to come. 

 

“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

 


Wednesday, August 19, 2020

Ultimate Boxxer Comes To FITE

Press Release: NEW YORK --- August 19, 2020----FITE, the premiere global digital platform for sports and entertainment announced the global pay per view carriage (outside the UK) of the ULTIMATE BOXXER 6-PART SERIES.The series, which aired originally on British TV, will begin on FITE on six consecutive Wednesdays at 7pm ET from August 19, 2020 to the September 23rd finale. Customers will witness some of the best up and coming pugilists in 6 different weight classes compete each week to determine who will be the Ultimate Boxxer.  

Credit: FITE 

 

FITE customers have the option of buying individual shows for $4.99 each, or get all six shows for just $19.99. Go here to purchase either option: https://www.fite.tv/vl/p/ultimate-boxxer/

 

 

6 week Ultimate Boxxer schedule:

       Aug.19 - Welterweight                       ///         Aug. 26 – Light Heavyweight

       Sept. 2 – Middleweight                    ///         Sept. 9 – Cruiserweight

       Sept. 16 – Super Middleweight       ///          Sept. 23 – Heavyweight       

 

 

                            

                     

How to Watch Events on FITE: https://www.fite.tv/p/how-to-watch/

 

FITE can be accessed via any of its free apps for iOS and Android mobile devices, Huawei Mobile, Apple TV, Android TV,  ROKU, PS, Chromecast, Xbox, Xfinity Flex, Amazon Fire, Netrange, Vidaa, Hisense, Vewd, Vizio SmartCast TV, Netgem TV, Foxxum, Phillips and more than 7,000 Smart TV models, or online at www.FITE.tv   ////     Follow FITE on TwitterFacebook and Instagram


Material and Photo Courtesy of: FITE used with permission. For more information about FITE including schedules, and list of compatible streaming devices/platforms/Smart TVs please visit: www.Fite.TV

 

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

Tuesday, August 18, 2020

Brief Update

 We would like to let our readers know that new material is in the works and will be released on Friday, August 21st. Stay tuned. “And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

 

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

 

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Saturday, August 15, 2020

Cash Retains Commonwealth Middleweight Championship In Five

 

Undefeated Middleweight Felix Cash successfully made the second defense of his Commonwealth Middleweight championship by scoring a fifth round stoppage of veteran Jason Welborn on Friday night at the residence of Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, dubbed Matchroom headquarters in Brentwood, England. In what was the main event of the third installment of Matchroom’s “Fight Camp” series, Cash used his longer reach and punching power to dictate the combat from the opening bell. Although the story of this fight became Cash’s ability to apply pressure on Welborn and back him up against the ropes, Welborn was able to have periodic success in landing counter hooks to the head of the champion. In round five, Cash was penalized a point for a low blow, however, that point deduction would prove to be academic as a barrage of punches seconds later highlighted by an overhand right to the head sent Welborn down. Welborn was able to get up, but could not withstand Cash’s follow-up attack and after being sent down for a second time in the round, his corner threw in the towel to prevent their fighter from further punishment. Official time of the stoppage was 2:48 of round five. Felix Cash advances to 13-0, with 9 Knockouts. Jason Welborn falls to 24-9, with 7 Knockouts. 

 

Also on this card:

 

Jr. Lightweight Zelfa Barrett scored an eighth round stoppage of previously undefeated prospect Eric Donovan. There were several heated exchanges throughout the first six rounds of this bout where both fighters were able to have periods of effectiveness. During this stage of the fight, Donovan appeared to have a slight edge due to his generally getting his punches off first as well as his ability to use lateral movement to keep Barrett from being able to cut off the ring. This would change in round seven when while engaged in an exchange of punches, Barrett connected with a flush left hook to the jaw of Donovan sending him down to the canvas. Sensing his opponent was in trouble, Barrett pressed forward and was able to score a second knockdown later in the round. In round eight Barrett connected with another flush left hook to the head that sent Barrett down for the third and final time as Referee Howard Foster immediately stopped the fight. Official time of the stoppage was 1:35 of round seven. Zelfa Barrett advances to 24-1, with 15 Knockouts. Eric Donovan falls to 12-1, with 7 Knockouts.

 

Jr. Middleweight Kieron Conway scored a lopsided ten round unanimous decision over Navid Mansouri. Conway forced the action and gradually outworked Mansouri over the course of the ten round bout. Despite showing the effects of fatigue and looking as though he might not be able to go the distance due to the punishment that Conway was dishing out, Mansouri showed his mettle and made it to the final bell. Official scores were 99-91, and 98-92 (On two scorecards) in favor of Conway. Kieron Conway advances to 15-1-1, with 3 Knockouts. Navid Mansouri falls to 20-4-2, with 6 Knockouts.

 

 

 

Unbeaten Super-Middleweight prospect John Docherty scored a seventh round stoppage of veteran Anthony Fox. The southpaw Docherty consistently forced Fox back either against the ropes or in corners of the ring throughout the bout. Docherty worked frequently behind his right jab as well as mixing in straight left hands and hooks. The undefeated Scottish prospect was credited with a knockdown in round three from what appeared to be a slip. The constant pressure and harder blows from Docherty eventually wore Fox down. A barrage of punches late in round six hurt Fox, but he was able to survive the round. In round seven with Fox hurt, Docherty pressed forward and another barrage forced Fox to take a knee. The very “Game” Fox attempted to continue upon getting up from the second knockdown, but he had no answer to keep Docherty off of him and the fight was stopped at 1:02 of round seven.  John Docherty advances to 9-0, with 7 Knockouts. Anthony Fox falls to 8-13-4, with 0 Knockouts.

 

 

In a women’s Featherweight bout former three-time world Kickboxing champion Rachel Ball scorered a hard-foughr eight round decision over previously undefeated Shannon Courtenay. An extremely competitive fight from start to finish that was very difficult to score due to frequent exchanges between the two fighters, the determining factor proved to be when Ball scored a knockdown of Courtenay in the first round with a short counter left hook to the head. This proved to be the difference on Referee Howard Foster’s scorecard as he scored the bout 77-75 in Ball’s favor. Rachel Ball advances to 6-1, with 0 Knockouts. Shannon Courtenay falls to 5-1, with 2 Knockouts.

 

As we have seen throughout the “Fight Camp “ series, there was a mix of prospects on the rise, competitive bouts, as well as fighters being tested inside the ring. While one would be justified in saying that if there were one segment of the sport that has been able to turn the horrible circumstances of COVID-19 into a positive for Boxing, it is the women who compete in the sport, who have taken part in several competitive fights since the sport has attempted to resume, prospects like Felix Cash also deserve credit for being able to turn in quality performances under the circumstances.  

 

Although some here in the United States may not understand the structure of which Boxing championships on the British, Commonwealth, and European level are determined in terms of rankings, one of the benefits of digital streaming networks like DAZN, which has been broadcasting the “Fight Camp “ series in the markets around the world it is available including the United States has been the increased access to Boxing on an international scale. As such, increased access has brought Boxing fans exposure to fights including those on the British regional level that most may not have been able to access previously on traditional television. While the British regional Boxing scene is similar to championships fought on a regional level in North America and elsewhere, it is always interesting to see where fighters who hold Commonwealth championships progress, whether it be fighting for a British championship in a given weight class or whether or not an opportunity to fight for a version of the European championship might be available, which is usually the last stop before European fighters enter world championship contention.

 

In the eyes of this observer, Felix Cash just might be ready to challenge for either the British Middleweight championship or the European championship recognized by the European Boxing Union (EBU), the most widely recognized version of the European championship. As has been the case for many fighters who have been competing during the ongoing COVID-19 epidemic, it may be a question of when Cash will be able to get that opportunity and whether or not such an opportunity will be held off until it is appropriate for spectators to resume going to sporting events for the business aspects of the sport as a fight for either a British or European championship is likely to generate significant interest as well as revenue in the United Kingdom.

 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

 

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

 

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Friday, August 14, 2020

Braekhus-McCaskill Official DAZN Weights From Tulsa

 Press Release By DAZN – TULSA (August 14, 2020) – This Saturday, live on DAZN, Cecilia Brækhus (36-0, 9 KOs) will look to cement her legacy as undisputed welterweight champion with an opportunity to break Joe Louis’s 72-year-old record for most consecutive world title defenses. In the way of making history is the former super lightweight champion Jessica McCaskill (8-2, 3 KOs) who will enter the ring on Saturday night looking to transform her ring story with a victory over Brækhus. Both main event fighters successfully made weight on Friday afternoon in Tulsa ahead of their highly-anticipated bout tomorrow night on DAZN (8 p.m. ET).

 

The undercard fighters also tipped the scales successfully ahead of Saturday’s event on DAZN. Super Welterweight Israil Madrimov (5-0 5 KOs) will meet former Contender finalist Eric Walker (20-2, 9 KOs) in a final eliminator for the WBA World title while Madrimov’s fellow countryman Shakhram Giyasov (9-0 7, KOs) looks to extend his pristine ring record against Wiston Campos (31-7-6, 19 KOs). Two of Matchroom’s standout prospects – Nikita Ababiy (8-0, 6 KOs), and Raymond Ford (5-0, 2 KOs) – will also take center stage on the streets of Tulsa.

 

Credit: Ed Mulholland/Matchroom Boxing USA 
Make sure to watch the Official Fight Trailer and the Fight Feature ahead of the stacked Matchroom Boxing USA card. Fight night coverage on DAZN will begin tomorrow night at 8 p.m. ET.

 

10-Round Undisputed Welterweight Title Bout @ 147 lbs. 

 

Cecilia Brækhus: 145 lbs.

 

Jessica McCaskill: 144.4 lbs.

 

10-Round WBA World Super Welterweight Title Bout @ 154 lbs. 

 

Israil Madrimov: 153.6 lbs.

 

Eric Walker: 153.2 lbs.

 

10-Round Super Lightweight Bout @ 142 lbs. (catch-weight) 

 

Shakhram Giyasov: 141.4 lbs.

 

Wiston Campos: 141.4 lbs.

 

6-Round Middleweight Bout @ 160 lbs. 

 

Nikita Ababiy: 160.2 lbs.

 

Jarvis Williams:159.4 lbs.

 

6-Round Featherweight Bout @ 126 lbs. 

 

Raymond Ford: 126.8 lbs

 

Eric Manriquez: 126.6 lbs.

 

About DAZN:

 

DAZN is the largest global sports streaming service. Since launching in 2016, DAZN has expanded to nine countries across four continents with its app available for download in the United States, Canada, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Japan and Brazil. In the U.S., the service features big fights from Matchroom Boxing, Golden Boy Promotions, GGG Promotions, Bellator MMA, all for one affordable price, on any device – including smart TVs, smartphones, streaming sticks, tablets, games consoles and PCs. 

 

 

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

 

For more information about DAZN including schedules, list of compatible streaming devices/platforms/Smart TVs, availability around the world, and to subscribe please visit: www.DAZN.com

 

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