Monday, November 30, 2020

Ty Payne Inks Management Deal With Tony Tolj

 

Press Release November 30, 2020 By Dragon Fire Boxing – Decorated 19 year old Australian amateur standout, Ty Payne (1-0) has signed management terms with leading Australian manger and promoter, Tony Tolj.  

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 



Fighting out of Kingscliff, New South Wales, Payne made an impressive professional debut last year with a second round knockout in his native NSW. Soon to make his second professional outing in Queensland 
on December 18th, Payne chose the period to enhance his backroom staff with a man continuously building world champions in Tony Tolj. The experienced boxing manger adds Ty Payne to his talented and ever-growing stable which boasts the likes of Andrew and Jason Moloney having also worked with the likes of Chris John in the past. 

Payne achieved monumental amateur success in his native Australia winning; The Australian National Championships 2015, Queensland & New South Wales State titles in 2016, Interstate title 2017 and the Clarence Valley Title in 2018 making him one of the hottest prospects in Australia. 

Campaigning at Super Lightweight, Ty Payne has great enthusiasm about his career with the following comment “I have had over 100 fights as an amateur and I have been boxing since I was 12 years old. Since then, it has been my dream to become a professional and win a world title. My work ethic is second to none and with the right management and people around me, I have no doubt I can go all the way.”

Tony Tolj commentated further on his newest acquisition “He’s a good kid with bags of potential and I’m delighted to welcome to our team. We can achieve as much as he wants in the sport, he’s got a great heart and character, as well as being a talented fighter.”

Ty Payne’s inspirations come in the form of Roy Jones Jr, Canelo Alvarez and new stable-mates Andrew & Jason Moloney looking to emulate these champions to go on and claim his own silverware in the future.

 

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

 

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

 

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

Tyson-Jones Thoughts

 

The exhibition bout between legends Mike Tyson and Roy Jones was a “Curiosity” rooted in what is in many ways the question of “What If?” What if two fighters who were the cornerstones of their respective eras were to face off in the ring. Obviously, at ages fifty-four and fifty-one respectively, one should not have expected to see anything near what Tyson and Jones were during their prime years. What was the main event of the debut of Mike Tyson’s Legends Only League concept on November 28th at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA did however, provide entertainment.

 

What was a non—competitive exhibition did resemble some competition as both Tyson and Jones showed slight glimpses of what made them great fighters. The eight round exhibition was something that was clearly meant to entertain Boxing fans of all description rather than an announcement of sorts that both fighters were using this as the first step in a comeback that would no doubt be the subject of both criticism and ridicule given both Tyson and Jones’ age.

 

It did not stop some however, from sharing some critical thoughts regarding the exhibition. While it can indeed be true that some fans go into fights and/or exhibition bouts expecting to see more than what is actually going to take place, it is important to keep in mind that this was always intended to be an exhibition and as such one should not have expected to see either fighter really intend to hurt the other. The bout, which was sanctioned by the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) also had strict guidelines to ensure the safety of both men.

 

What Tyson and Jones did show was that both could still move in a similar way to when they were actively competing in the sport and did periodically land hard punches on each other. Tyson in particular showed that he was still capable of landing hard thudding body punches as he seemed to hurt Jones periodically throughout. Jones meanwhile had periodic success landing his right hand and also showed, despite it being an exhibition, that he was going to be tactical and hold Tyson whenever he got close in an attempt to limit his ability to get his punches off on the inside. A tactic that many opponents of Mike Tyson attempted to implement throughout his career with some having more success than others.

 

Although there simply is not much one can say about an exhibition or analysis that one could offer, it was impressive in this observer’s eyes to see both Tyson and Jones not only appear to be in good condition, but also show that he did take the idea of getting back in the ring seriously, which at their ages cannot be an easy task. It does also show why no matter what one’s age or skill level that Boxing needs to be taken seriously at all times.

 

With this in mind, it is important to mention a bout that took place on the undercard featuring YouTube star Jake Paul and former NBA star Nate Robinson, which took place in the Cruiserweight division. Unlike the Tyson-Jones exhibition, this as well as other bouts that took place on the undercard were official professional bouts. What happened in this fight however, was frankly scary in that Nate Robinson was over matched by Paul, who has a bit more experience in the Boxing ring and who says he has ambitions of making his foray in the sport a legitimate Boxing career. Paul would score three knockdowns of Robinson in a round and a half, all of which came as a result of right hands to the head and the last of which resulted in what yours truly called on social media a scary knockout as Robinson fell face first on the canvas.

 

In the days since this event took place, I have seen some direct criticism towards Robinson for his performance in this fight. This observer will not be among those armchair quarterbacks who will criticize for the sake of being critical. The fact is no one really knows what type of training in preparation Robinson went through before stepping in the ring. It does however, underscore how dangerous Boxing and by extension all combat sports can be even for the most seasoned professional fighters.

 

 As someone who has covered the sport for most of his life and has unfortunately seen tragedies occur, I was legitimately concerned for Nate Robinson’s well-being after seeing this knockout. Although we do not know if this will end up being a one-off appearance for Robinson in the Boxing ring, he is not the first nor will he likely be the last notable athlete from another sport to attempt a foray into combat sports. Robinson should be given credit for the bravery he showed by getting in the ring, but as other athletes who have attempted to cross over into Boxing and other combat sports have found out through the years, it is not always a given that success will follow them into a different sport and this should serve as another example as to why if one chooses to enter into combat sports, they need to be fully committed to it because unfortunately the dangers can and often do outweigh the rewards and if one is not prepared when they get in the ring, the outcome can be tragic. Fortunately for Nate Robinson, he was able to leave the ring under his own power and hopefully will not suffer any long-term effects from the knockout he suffered at the hands of Jake Paul.

 

Perhaps some of the criticism that has been directed at the Tyson-Jones exhibition in the event itself is rooted in the fact that the event was offered on a pay-per-view basis for $49.95. While this observer has long been critical and will continue to be of the overpriced and undervalued model of pay-per-view as long as said model remains in the sport of Boxing, I will not be as critical in this instance because this event was “A Curiosity” that featured not only two legends in exhibition, not only featured some professional bouts, but also featured many musical performances as well. Although some may have expected more from this, yours truly feels that if this was not a one-time only event and if the Mike Tyson’s Legends Only League concept is to go on beyond this point, this pay-per-view event might have been a way to test the waters.

 

With much of the Boxing world now focused on subscription-based streaming options rather than pay-per-view, perhaps future events could be featured on networks like DAZN, ESPN+, or a cable/satellite network such as Showtime, especially with Mike Tyson saying that his goal for this concept is to further humanitarian causes. As long as the fighters who participate in these “Legends” exhibitions are as healthy when they are done participating as they were before they enter the ring and safety guidelines are followed, why be critical of what could be a good thing for fighters who may not want to actively compete in the sport, but still want to participate in be involved?

 

“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


Saturday, November 28, 2020

Joyce KO’s Dubois In 10

 

In a highly anticipated battle of undefeated Heavyweight “Knockout Artists” 2016 Olympic Silver medalist Joe Joyce scored a tenth round knockout over previously unbeaten Daniel Dubious to win a trio of championships in the British, Commonwealth, and European Heavyweight championships on Saturday night at historic Church House in Westminster, London, England. The story of this fight quickly became the success and accuracy that Joyce was able to have in landing his jab. Such success gradually developed swelling on the left eye of Dubious. The bout was surprisingly tactical, competitive, and even however, as Dubious found success in landing hooks with both hands to the head of Joyce as well as being able to occasionally make him miss throughout. A close fight heading into the tenth round, a jab from Joyce landed on the left eye of Dubious, which by that point in the fight had swollen completely shut, forced Dubious to take a knee and take the full ten count. Official time of the stoppage was :36 of round ten. Joe Joyce advances to 12-0, with 11 Knockouts. Daniel Dubious falls to 15-1, with 14 Knockouts.

 

Also on this card:

 

Undefeated Jr. Welterweight contender Jack Catterall scored a commanding ten round  decision over a very “Game “ Abderrazak Houya. Catterall was in control from the opening bell. The highlights of the bout came in round six when Catterall nearly ended the fight with a flush left hook to the head that sent Houya down. This was followed by a second knockdown from an overhand left in round nine as all non-title bouts held in the United Kingdom are scored solely by the referee officiating a fight, Referee Victor Loughlin scored the bout 99-90 in Catterall’s favor. Jack Catterall advances to 26-0, with 13 Knockouts. Abderrazak Houya falls to 14-3, with 2 Knockouts.

 

 

In a bout for the WBO European Jr. Middleweight championship, undefeated champion Hamzah Sheeraz scored a tenth round stoppage of Guido Pitto. Sheeraz found a home for his left hook to the body of Pitto from early on in the bout. This along with his height and reach advantage allowed him to control the bout. The one-sided bout was halted when a right hand to the head set off a barrage of unanswered punches that forced a stoppage. Official time of the stoppage was 1:11 of round ten. Hamzah Sheeraz advances to 12-0, with 8 Knockouts. Guido Pitto falls to 26-8-2, with 8 Knockouts.

 

 

Cruiserweight prospect Jack Massey scored a workmanlike eight round decision over Mohammad Ali Bayat. Massey simply out boxed Bayat over the course of a fight that had a formulaic feel to it where he was in control of the combat all the way. Referee Victor Loughlin scored the non-title bout 79-74 in Massey’s favor giving him the victory. Jack Massey advances to 17-1, with 8 Knockouts. Mohammad Ali Bayat falls to 16-2-1, with 16 Knockouts.

 

Unbeaten Heavyweight David Adeleye scored a second round stoppage of Danny Whitaker. An overhand right to the head sent Whitaker down in the second round. A follow-up barrage sent Whitaker down for a second time resulting in the fight being stopped, but it came close to ending in a disqualification as Adeleye barely missed with an uppercut to the head while Whitaker was on one knee. Although Adeleye was cautioned by Referee Mark Lyson, the stoppage for Adeleye stands. Official time of the stoppage was 2:09 of round two. David Adeleye advances to 4-0, with 4 Knockouts. Danny Whitaker falls to 4-2, with 0 Knockouts. 

 

 

In non-televised bouts,  Unbeaten  Jr. Middleweight Josh Franklin scored a four round decision over veteran MJ Hall. Josh Franklin advances to 1-0, with 0 Knockouts. MJ Hall falls to 2-57-2, with 0 Knockouts.

 

Heavyweight Mitchell Barton successfully made his professional debut in non-televised action by scoring a four round decision over Matt Gordon. Mitchell Barton advances to 1-0, with 0 Knockouts. Matt Gordon falls to 2-4-1, with 0 Knockouts.

 

 

Undefeated Featherweight Louie Lynn remained unbeaten in a non-televised bout by scoring a seventh round stoppage of veteran Paul Holt. Louie Lynn advances to 8-0, with 7 Knockouts. Paul Holt falls to 7-9, with 2 Knockouts.

 

While the records and past histories of Joe Joyce and Daniel Dubois indicated that this could have been a short fight, what developed instead as can happen when two fighters known for scoring quick knockouts face each other, was a tactical battle perhaps out of respect for each’s respective punching power. Although this fight did not end in a way that would fit the perception of either fighter’s reputation as “Knockout Artists”, it does serve as an illustration of just how effective a weapon a jab can be when it is used properly. While many great Heavyweight world champions including Larry Holmes and Muhammad Ali proved the dynamic of how to use the most elementary of punches, the jab throughout their Hall of Fame careers, for a “Knockout Artist “ such as Joe Joyce to be able to add this weapon into his arsenal will make him even more of a dangerous opponent as he looks to move towards a shot at a world championship. For Daniel Dubois, he has nothing to be ashamed of. He fought hard and it was a competitive fight all the way through. It will be how he deals with the first loss of his career however, that will likely define him in the eyes of some. For now, it’s a matter of healing from the damage that his left eye suffered in this fight then going back to the drawing board. 

 

“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, November 27, 2020

Jacobs Gets By Rosado

 

Former IBF Middleweight world champion Daniel Jacobs scored a narrow twelve round split decision over longtime contender Gabe Rosado on Friday night at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, FL. In a surprisingly tactical battle fought in the Super-Middleweight division, many of the rounds saw neither fighter really stand out clearly from the other. It appeared to the eyes of this observer however, that Rosado, a fighter known for his willingness to engage in wars, got the better of the action by implementing a tactical Boxing strategy rather than the brawling style that has endeared him to many Boxing fans. Despite the view of yours truly as well as Rosado appearing to initiate most of the exchanges between the two fighters, two judges felt that Jacobs had done enough to win the fight at the conclusion of the twelve round bout. Official scores were 115-113 (Rosado), and 115-113 (On two scorecards) in favor of Daniel Jacobs giving him the split decision victory. Daniel Jacobs advances to 37-3, with 30 Knockouts. Gabe Rosado falls to 25-13-1, with 14 Knockouts.

 

Also on this card:

 

Undefeated Welterweight contender Daniyar Yeleussinov scored a second round knockout of former unified Jr. Welterweight world champion Julius Indongo. Yeleussinov dropped the former world champion in the first round with a counter hook to the head. A short left hook dropped Indongo for the second time in round two. Indongo was able to beat the count, but signaled to Referee Chris Young that he did not want to continue. Official time of the stoppage was 1:24 of round two. Daniyar Yeleussinov advances to 10-0, with 6 Knockouts. Julius Indongo falls to 23-3, with 12 Knockouts.

 

 

In a clash between unbeaten Heavyweights, Mahammadrasul Majidov scored a third round stoppage over previously undefeated Sahret Delgado. A pattern developed of Majidov pushing Delgado against the ropes early in the fight. Majidov staggered Delgado while he was against the ropes in late in the first round. Delgado was relatively non-offensive-minded throughout beyond attempting to counter Majidov with hooks off the ropes. It was another solid right hook to the head that badly staggered Delgado early in round three forcing a stoppage of the fight. Official time of the stoppage was :43 of round three. Mahammadrasul Majidov advances to 3-0, with 3 Knockouts. Sahret Delgado falls to 8-1, with 7 Knockouts.

 

 

Unbeaten Super-Middleweight Nikita Ababiy outworked Brandon Maddox

Over six rounds to earn a unanimous decision victory. Ababiy landed the harder shots throughout the fight, but had to contend with the awkward style Maddox was able to implement and was able to catch the unbeaten Middleweight, who was fighting in the 168lb. Super-Middleweight division for the first time, with counter punches throughout. All three official judges scored the fight 59-55 in Ababiy’s favor. Nikita Ababiy advances to 10-0, with 6 Knockouts. Brandon Maddox falls to 7-4-1, with 5 Knockouts.

 

 

In the opening bout of the evening, former IBO Lightweight world champion Emmanuel Tagoe scored a hard-fought ten round majority decision over an always “Game” Mason Menard. Menard was aggressive throughout frequently getting Tagoe on the ropes. There were several periods throughout the bout where there was frequent grappling on the inside between the two fighters, but Tagoe’s ability to get his punches off first, hold Menard on the inside where he could not be effective ultimately proved to be the difference as two of three official judges scored the fight in his favor at the end of the the entertaining ten round bout. Official scores were: 95-95,(Even) and,  98-92, 96-94 in favor of Tagoe. Emmanuel Tagoe advances to 32-1, with 15 Knockouts. Mason Menard falls to 36-5, with 25 Knockouts.

 

While this was not the type of fight that some may have expected given the bad blood between Daniel Jacobs and Gabe Rosado, quite frankly, it was a fight that illustrated that looks can be deceiving and Rosado’s strategy was one that was unexpected and executed well. As is usually the case when it comes to close fights, it will as I have said frequently over the years, come down to what a judge prefers in their own criteria based on clean punching, effective aggressiveness, ring generalship, and defense. This was one fight where both fighters demonstrated all of that criteria and it certainly should leave the door open for a rematch based on how closely fought this bout was. 

 

“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

 

 

 

Yoka And Yoka-Mossely Each Score Wins In France

 

Unbeaten Heavyweight prospect and 2016 Olympic Heavyweight Gold medalist Tony Yoka scored a lopsided ten round decision over veteran contender Christian Hammer on Friday night at the H Arena in Nantes, France. Yoka forced the combat throughout much of the contest, but also had to show that he could take a punch periodically over the course of the fight as Hammer was able to occasionally land hard hooks to the head in exchanges of offense between the two fighters. Yoka’s greater activity and seemingly cleaner more effective punches however, proved to be the difference as he was able to box his was to a convincing decision victory. Tony Yoka advances to 9-0, with 7 Knockouts. Christian Hammer falls to 25-7, with 15 Knockouts. 

 

 

Also on this card:

 

In the Women’s Lightweight division,2016 Lightweight Olympic Gold medalist Estelle Yoka-Mossely, the wife of Tony Yoka, scored an eight round  decision over Emma Gongora. Yoka-Mossely frequently landed right hands to the head and generally got the better of the action throughout. Estelle Yoka-Mossely advances to 8-0, with 1 Knockout. Emma Gongora 0-2, 0 Knockouts.

 

 

Undefeated Heavyweight Viktor Vykhryst remained unbeaten by scoring a six round decision over Kamil Sokolowski. Vykhryst frequently threw and landed combinations throughout. It was one such combination highlighted by a hook to the head that sent Sokolowski down in the third round on the way to a convincing decision victory. Viktor Vykhryst advances to 5-0, with 4 Knockouts. Kamil Sokolowski falls to 10-20-2, with 4 Knockouts.

 

 

Undefeated Welterweight Volkan Gokcek scored a workmanlike six round decision over veteran Aboubeker Bechelaghem. Gokcek seemed to outwork Bechelaghem over the course of the six round bout, but under strange circumstances, Bechelaghem was initially announced as the winner. While it is unclear as of this writing as to whether there was an error tabulating the scorecards, after several minutes, the scorecards were read again, with Gokcek declared the winner. Volkan Gokcek advances to 5-0, with 2 Knockouts. Aboubeker Bechelaghem falls to 12-12-2, with 0 Knockouts.

 

A card that kicked off a full slate of cards throughout the sport of Boxing throughout Thanksgiving weekend featured a look at two rising Heavyweight prospects, a somewhat bizarre scoring issue in a welterweight bout, as well as a rising contender in the talent deep Women’s Lightweight division. This card also featured the unique distinction of a husband and wife competing on the same event. Given both’s respective Olympic pedigree as well as each’s respective rising status in the professional ranks, it may not be far in the future that the Boxing world could see both challenge for world championships on the same card if of course both continue to progress forward in their respective careers.

 

“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

 

 

 

 

Thursday, November 26, 2020

Boxing Black Friday 2020 Weights

 

For many, the sport of Boxing is truly a 24/7 three hundred and sixty-five day a year pastime and, despite the Thanksgiving holiday and the official start of the holiday season, Boxing marches on even in the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 epidemic. This year’s Thanksgiving weekend schedule will begin with two separate cards taking place in France as well as here in the United States. The official weights and legal broadcast information for both events are as follows,

 

H Arena, Nantes, France – ESPN+

 

Main Event: Heavyweight – 10 Rds.

 

Tony Yoka 239 1/4lbs. vs. Christian Hammer 

 

Heavyweight – 6 Rds.

 

Victor Faust 237lbs. vs. Kamil Sokolowski 234 3/4lbs. 

 

Welterweight – 6Rds.

 

Volkan Gokcek 143 1/2lbs. vs. Aboubeker Bechelaghem 144 1/2lbs.

 

*Also scheduled to take place/Weights unavailable as of this writing.

 

Women’s French Jr. Lightweight championship – 8 Rds.

 

Victoire Piteau vs. Emilie Beaugeard* (*Pro debut for Beaugeard.)

 

Women’s Lightweight – 6 Rds.

 

Estelle Mossely vs. Emma Gongora

 

Yoka vs. Hammer takes place on Friday, November 27th at the H Arena in Nantes, France. The card can be seen on digital subscription sports streaming network ESPN+ in the United States beginning at 2:55 PM ET/11:55AM PT. ESPN+ is available through the ESPN app on mobile, and connected streaming devices/platforms/Smart TVs.

 

For more information about ESPN+ including schedules, list of compatible streaming devices/platforms/Smart TVs, and to subscribe please visit: https://plus.espn.com/

 

 

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood, FL – DAZN 

 

Main Event: Super-Middleweight – 10 Rds.

Daniel Jacobs 167 3/4lbs. vs. Gabe Rosado 168lbs.

 

Welterweight – 10 Rds. 

 

Julius Indongo 146 1/2lbs. vs. Daniyar Yeleussinov  146 3/4lbs.

 

Middleweight – 6 Rds.

 

Nikita Ababiy 162 1/2lbs. vs. Brandon Maddox 162lbs. 

 

Lightweight – 10 Rds.

 

Mason Menard 134 3/4lbs. vs. 134lbs.

 

Heavyweight – 8 Rds.

 

Sahret Delgado 291lbs. vs. Mahammadrasul Majidov 232 3/4lbs.

 

 

Jacobs vs. Rosado takes place on Friday, November 27th at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, FL. The card can be seen on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN in the United States and several international countries beginning at 8PM ET/5PM PT (U.S. Time) 

 

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. Check your local listings internationally if DAZN is unavailable in your area.

 

We will have coverage of both these cards as well as other events taking place in the sport of Boxing during Thanksgiving weekend. We wish all of our readers a very happy and safe Thanksgiving. Stay tuned.

 

“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, November 25, 2020

The Curiosity Of Tyson-Jones

 

For Boxing fans of a certain age, there was nothing quite like the anticipation that took place before Mike Tyson entered the ring. In his prime in the 1980’s, Tyson ran through and fully unified the Heavyweight division in a near four year reign. Why was there such anticipation each time before Tyson stepped in the ring to compete? Tyson was the very definition of the term “Knockout Artist” and what made his ability to score quick knockouts even more impressive was he was scoring knockouts of many top Heavyweight contenders as well as fighters that at one time or another each held versions of the World Heavyweight championship.

 

In a similar way, Roy Jones carved his reputation in the 1990’s by dominating multiple weight classes with relative ease. Jones’ dominance including victories over world champions and fighters who would ultimately become Hall of Famers was in some ways similar to what Mike Tyson was able to accomplish in his prime. The question that often faced Tyson opponents during his prime was whether they would be able to survive the early rounds against a fighter who had knock out intentions with every punch he threw. Similarly, there was a significant stretch in Roy Jones’ career where if he didn’t knockout his opposition, he would often win every round of a fight making the conclusion if a bout went the distance an afterthought.

 

The one time where there was a possibility of the two meeting in a legitimate competitive environment in the Boxing ring was shortly after Jones moved up to Heavyweight and captured the WBA World Heavyweight championship from John Ruiz in March 2003. As most know, Jones chose instead to return to the Light-Heavyweight division where he spent much of his career. The possible clash between two legends of the sweet science remaining a “What If?” fantasy bout to be discussed and debated amongst Boxing experts and fans alike.

 

As we return to present day in 2020 however, the two over fifty legends will meet inside the ring, sort of, as Tyson and Jones will share the ring in an exhibition bout on Saturday, November 28th at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA. The bout , which will headline a four fight pay-per-view card is the first event promoted under the Mike Tyson’s Legends League banner.

 

 Although there is no disputing that had this bout taken place when both fighters were still actively competing in the sport that it probably would have been a marquee attraction that would have drawn significant interest, it is important to keep mind that this will be a non-competitive exhibition given that both fighters are fifty-four and fifty-one years old respectively and the bout will have strict guidelines under the supervision of the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC). While those guidelines have been rumored for months since this exhibition was initially announced, we have clarification from CSAC executive director Andy Foster who in an interview with MMA Fighting laid out the rules for this exhibition bout.

 

The bout will be scheduled for eight two minute rounds, Both fighters will be wearing sixteen ounce gloves. Neither fighter will be required to wear headgear. If either fighter suffers a cut, the exhibition will be stopped. Although no judges will be present, the World Boxing Council (WBC) will have guest judges who will be scoring remotely for entertainment purposes only, there will be no winner announced at the end of the exhibition. Both fighters will receive a WBC “Frontline“ Heavyweight championship belt following the exhibition.

 

When this exhibition was first announced, this observer immediately began having thoughts of a Boxing card I covered back in June 1999 called “Legends of Boxing.” A pay-per-view card that featured three bouts featuring fighters that were around or over the age of forty. Although the card, which had a $19.95 price point proved to be very entertaining and was headlined by the rematch between former World Heavyweight champions Larry Holmes and James “Bonecrusher” Smith, the “Legends of Boxing “ concept, which featured fully sanctioned professional bouts, did not last beyond one additional card in November 2000, which also featured Holmes in another rematch against former Heavyweight world champion Mike Weaver.

 

The “Legends of Boxing” concept, which was in many ways the idea of “Bonecrusher” Smith, that was intended solely for advanced-age fighters, a seniors tour of Boxing if you will, was a concept that I felt could have succeeded long-term. Perhaps due to both financial reasons as well as the possibility of fighters not necessarily wanting to be relegated to a “Legends” league of sorts could have contributed to the concept only lasting one year and only putting on two cards in that period of time.

 

Could this Mike Tyson’s Legends League concept be a successor of sorts to the “Legends of Boxing” concept? Time will tell, but it will be interesting to see how successful the Tyson-Jones exhibition will be in terms of pay-per-view buys given that unlike the “Legends of Boxing “ concept, this is an exhibition and will be priced at $49.99 compared to the $19.95 price point when the “Legends” concept debuted in 1999. Nevertheless, when two legends of any sport engage in a joint-venture, it will draw attention, if nothing else out of curiosity. While one probably should not expect this to be the start of a comeback for either fighter, Tyson fifteen years removed from his last professional fight and Jones having retired from active competition two years ago, this should offer entertainment for those who will be tuning in. If this exhibition does in some way serve as a launching point of a resurrected “Legends of Boxing” concept, as long as everyone participating is healthy and remains healthy after participating, it’s a win.

 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

 

 

Tyson vs. Jones: Exhibition bout takes place on Saturday, November 28th at Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA. The exhibition as well as its undercard can be seen on a pay-per-view basis across cable/satellite providers in the United States as well as globally on www.FITE.TV and the FITE app across mobile, and connected streaming devices, platforms, and Smart TVs for $49.99 beginning at 9PM ET/6PM PT (U.S. Time) contact your local cable/satellite provider for ordering information or visit: https://www.fite.tv/watch/tyson-vs-jones-jr/2p88l/ or the FITE app to order.

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

Tuesday, November 24, 2020

Golovkin To Defend Unified Middleweight World Championship Against Szeremeta December 18TH On DAZN

 Press Release: By  DAZN – HOLLYWOOD, FL (Nov. 24, 2020) -- The Big Drama Show is back!  Gennadiy "GGG" Golovkin, boxing's most dominant middleweight of his era, returns to the ring looking to make even more history when he attempts to make a division-record 21st successful defense of his World Middleweight titles.  Golovkin (40-1-1, 35 KOs), from Karaganda, Kazakhstan, has worn a world championship belt every year since 2010.  He will be making a mandatory title defense against undefeated top-rated contender Kamil Szeremeta (21-0, 5 KOs), from Biaylstok, Poland, Friday, Dec. 18, behind closed doors at Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL.  The Golovkin-Szeremeta IBF/IBO Middleweight World Championship fight, and its action-packed undercard bouts, will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN in over 200 countries and territories. 

Credit: DAZN 

 

"This is not just any fight.  It is a fight with great meaning.  I always have the greatest respect for all of my opponents.  I have really missed boxing and I wanted to fight this year.  The goal -- fighting for a record twenty-first successful world title defense." Golovkin said.    

 

"I want this title for Poland and my family.  GGG is a great champion, one of the best in history, but it is time for replacement.  Thank you for the great chance, I must take my opportunity to be the first world middleweight champion from Poland," Szeremeta said.

 

“GGG is looking to make history this December on DAZN in front of a worldwide audience,” said DAZN EVP Joseph Markowski.  “We look forward to launching our Global platform with an action-packed opening month featuring boxing’s biggest stars.”

 

“This is a historic moment for one of the best fighters of our generation. GGG has been providing explosive entertainment for many years now and we can expect a war on December 18 against Szeremeta.  The Pole is the unbeaten mandatory challenger and I know the team really fancy their chances of an upset during these crazy times. As we have seen through Golovkin's career -- don’t blink and certainly don’t miss it,” said Eddie Hearn, managing director, Matchroom Sport.

 

Golovkin, who shares the record for consecutive World Middleweight title defenses, returns to the ring in his second reign as World Middleweight Champion. In a battle of former Olympic medalists, Golovkin regained the IBF middleweight title on Oct. 5, 2019, with a unanimous decision victory over Sergiy Derevyanchenko, a hellacious toe-to-toe slugfest that had the frenzied crowd at Madison Square Garden on its feet for the entire 12 rounds.  Many considered it the Fight of the Year.  Golovkin's Big Drama Show has packed iconic arenas around the world, selling out Madison Square Garden, The O2 in London, the Fabulous Forum and StubHub Center in Los Angeles, and T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.  This will be his first time fighting in the Sunshine State.  His decade-long rampage on the middleweight division has also attracted millions of viewers who have watched him on premium cable, pay-per-view, and DAZN.       

 

Now Golovkin faces his second consecutive top-rated contender in Szeremeta.  The former EBU European middleweight champion, eight years younger than the defending world champion, enters this fight like a hurricane gathering strength, having won three of his last five fights by knockout, including a second-round stoppage of Oscar Cortes on the undercard of Golovkin-Derevyanchenko.  His reign as EBU European middleweight champion included victories over Alessandro Goddi, Ruben Diaz and Andrew Francillette, who had a combined record of 79-4-4 when he fought them -- a winning percentage of 91%.  

 

The Golovkin-Szeremeta World Middleweight Championship event is brought to you by GGG promotions, in association with Matchroom Boxing and Warriors Boxing.

 

Material and Photo Courtesy of: DAZN 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. 

Sunday, November 22, 2020

Benn Batters Formella To Decision Victory

 

Undefeated Welterweight contender Conor Benn scored a hard-fought ten round unanimous decision over a very “Game” Sebastian Formella on Saturday night at the Wembley Arena in London, England. Benn, who is the son of former two-division world champion Nigel Benn, displayed as close to a complete package of a skill set as one could imagine in defense of his WBA Continental Welterweight title. Benn frequently hit Formella with combinations to the body and head throughout as well as landing several thudding blows. Although the question became what on earth is holding Formella up, it seemed as though every time he appeared stunned or hurt by Benn’s onslaught of punches, he would immediately return offense. While similar scenarios have led to tragic outcomes throughout the history of the sport, Formella was able to remain both “Game” and competitive, despite suffering a beating at the hands of Benn who would go on to win a unanimous decision. Official scores were: 100-90, 99-91, and 99-92 all in favor of Conor Benn. Conor Benn advances to 17-0, with 11 Knockouts. Sebastian Formella falls to 22-2, with 10 Knockouts.

 

 

Also on this card:

 

Unbeaten Heavyweight prospect Fabio Wardley scored a devastating second round knockout over Richard Lartey. A jab followed by a brutal left hook, right hook combination to the head sent Lartey down and out in round two. Lartey remained down and under examination by the ringside physicians in attendance for several minutes, but was able to leave the ring under his own power. Official time of the stoppage was 1:22 of round two. Fabio Wardley advances to 10-0, with 9 Knockouts. Richard Lartey falls to 14-4, with 11 Knockouts.

 

 

In a battle for the vacant English Bantamweight championship, undefeated prospect Liam Davies scored a dominant sixth round stoppage over a “Game”, but overmatched Sean Cairns. From the opening bell, Davies used his height and reach to keep Cairns at distance where he was simply unable to get into any sort of rhythm. Davies found frequently success in landing his right hand on Cairns. As the fight progressed, Davies increased his offensive output and mixed in combinations to the body and head. The increasingly one-sided bout was finally halted after the sixth round when Cairns’ corner stopped the fight to prevent their fighter from further punishment. Liam Davies advances to 8-0, with 3 Knockouts. Sean Cairns falls to 7-3, with 1 Knockout.

 

 

Undefeated Heavyweight prospect Alen Babic scored a third round stoppage of veteran Tom Little. From the opening bell Babic relentlessly pressed Little. Although Little was able to land occasional solid blows, he eventually could not withstand Babic pressure. In round three a solid right hook to the head sent Little down. Following the knockdown, Babic continued the assault until finally Little collapsed against the ropes and down for a second and final time as the count was waved off by Referee Robert Williams at 2:38 of round three. Alen Babic advances to 6-0, with 6 Knockouts. Tom Little falls to 10-9, with 3 Knockouts.

 

 

Middleweight Jez Smith scored a lopsided six round decision over previously unbeaten Ben Ridings. What was an entertaining bout in spots Smith was able to land the cleaner more effective blows over the course of the fight. As all non-title bouts in the United Kingdom are scored by the referee officiating the bout, Referee Robert Williams scored this non-title bout 60-54 in Smith’s favor. Jez Smith advances to 12-2-1, with 5 Knockouts. Ben Ridings falls to 3-1, with 0 Knockouts.

 

This card promoted by Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Boxing represented a look at what might be the near future in terms of the British Boxing scene as Liam Davies took one step closer to what could be an eventual challenge for the British Bantamweight championship, which is usually the springboard for British fighters prior to attempting to progress to the European and world levels of the sport. Two rising Heavyweights in Matchroom’s stable also took another step forward in their respective careers that may lead to an encounter between each other down the line as both look to establish themselves as players in the division on the world level. Middleweight Jez Smith was able to bounce back after suffering some career setbacks. 

 

Finally, Conor Benn took another step forward towards world title contention. As we have seen numerous times throughout Boxing history when the children of great fighters follow in their footsteps and embark on careers inside the Boxing ring, success is not necessarily a given and because of the names they carry into the ring with them, often more is expected of that fighter than would probably be the case if they were simply a prospect with no previous lineage in the sport. Along with the seemingly unrealistic expectations that are often placed upon the offspring of great fighters is the microscope that usually follows their careers as well as any and all criticism that comes with it. For now, Conor Benn has shown flashes of the skills that made his father a great fighter, but has also shown an evolving skill set, which will only help him as he progresses in his career. Having broken into the World Boxing Association’s (WBA) top fifteen rankings in the 147lb. Welterweight division prior to his victory over Sebastian Formella, it is logical to assume that Benn could face someone in the top ten in his next fight. Whether or not he will be able to build off of what was an impressive and dominant performance remains to be seen, but Benn clearly has the attention of the Boxing world heading into 2021.

 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

 

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

 

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