A Boxing Wishlist For 2022

 

The time has come once again where this observer shares his “Boxing Wishlist” for the coming year. Unlike previous years where this annual feature here on The Boxing Truth® has usually begins the schedule at the beginning of a year, for 2022 that was not the case. This was due to the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) group of promoters staging cards on Christmas night and a pay-per-view card on New Year’s Day. While this column has been written in advance of those cards and will be released after both cards have taken place that will be the subject of a feature next week here on The Boxing Truth®, in a coincidence, it leads to the first item on the 2022 “Boxing Wishlist.”  To see promoters that have relied on the pay-per-view model finally embrace the benefits of the subscription-based streaming model that has gradually populated much of the Boxing broadcast coverage throughout the sport over the last three years thanks largely to the success of digital sports streaming networks DAZN and ESPN+.

 

It should be no secret to longtime readers that a consistent theme of my coverage of the sport over the last several years has been to point out the benefits of the subscription-streaming model as compared to what is often an overpriced and undervalued model of pay-per-view where consumers are charged fees that in the current landscape usually begin at the $60 or above price range on a per card basis. Unfortunately, as the ongoing global COVID-19 epidemic has continued, there has seemingly been an increase in the amount of pay-per-view cards that has only furthered the decline of the model. This is due largely to multiple pay-per-view cards being scheduled within a narrow timeframe, which in addition to the price points has resulted in the returns of the majority of those pay-per-view events producing underwhelming numbers for the promoters who put the events on as well as for the networks that produce and distribute the broadcasts via the pay-per-view medium.  Although InDemand (Formerly Viewer’s Choice), the longtime number one pay-per-view cable distributor here in the United States has recently launched a pay-per-view-centric streaming platform under the PPV.com branding, which should be seen as the distributor’s attempt to transition to streaming in response to more consumers opting for streaming television and leaving traditional cable/satellite pay-TV providers behind, the mere amount of events at the aforementioned price points could make the potential success of such a service debatable.

 

Some reasons for that in addition to subscription-based options offering more value to consumers for the price of a subscription, there are other streaming-based pay-per-view providers such as FITE that have been established for several years, which could make it a challenge for InDemand to succeed in the streaming realm. Another aspect of the traditional pay-per-view model that will likely not fare well if InDemand is simply looking to transition their existing distribution model to streaming, that has proven beneficial for networks like FITE and those networks that operate on a subscription model is the feature of on-demand access being made available either with a PPV purchase or a subscription. Traditional pay-per-view distributors do not offer such a feature and if they are looking to transition to streaming as the cable/satellite model continues phasing out, they will likely need to add the benefit of on-demand access for those who purchase events live if they hope to compete effectively in the space.

 

While I certainly have no expectation that the pay-per-view model will disappear in 2022 as promoters and some networks that have been resistant to adapt to subscription-based streaming, those that yours truly often refers to as hold outs, despite mounting evidence that adaptation is likely a better option, if pay-per-view is to remain, I would like to see more value added for the price of a pay-per-view fee. The best way to add value regardless of who might be at the top of a card, would be to see every bout on a card broadcast on the pay-per-view feed. This is something that both DAZN and ESPN+ do with most of their Boxing events. It is also worth noting that FITE has done this before with many of the events they offer that are not also offered through the cable/satellite model. Typically, pay-per-view cards that are produced by networks such as Fox Sports and Showtime here in the United States only broadcast the top three or four bouts on a card that could have anywhere from eight to ten bouts. It should not take much explaining as to why such a model lacks value, though Fox has aired a portion of preliminary bouts on either the national Fox network or their cable sports networks, which depending on a consumer’s pay-TV provider may not always be easy to access.  Even though I remain firm on my stance that the PPV model needs to be done away with or significantly revamped, putting every bout on a card available on a pay-per-view channel for those purchasing an event rather than simply the top three or four fights on a card would be a step in the right direction simply by adding value for the price.

 

This brings me to the second item on this year’s list. Reducing the pay-per-view price points to make it more economically reasonable for consumers. The bottom line in addition to the other aforementioned flaws of the pay-per-view model that has resulted in a consistent decline in pay-per-view revenue on a regular basis, beyond the fact that there are subscription-based alternatives on the market that offer generally better value for the price is, the pay-per-view model has gotten to the point where it has priced out many Boxing fans who can simply not afford a $60 or above price point on a per card basis, that would likely be more willing to tune-in if those price points were more reasonable.

 

Some personal perspective for the reader. I grew up in the 1980’s and 1990’s during the boom period of cable/satellite television. I can recall more or less pestering my parents whenever there was a Boxing or pro wrestling pay-per-view event coming up during those days. Back then, pay-per-view offerings were not every month or every few weeks, but were reserved for the legitimate “Big Fights.” The type of fights that everyone even those with only a casual interest in Boxing would be talking about in one form or another. You would also see much more promotion for such bouts on television via late night talk shows, advertisements, as well as radio interviews and such, but the one thing that I remember perhaps more than most was that in many cases, the price points for pay-per-view Boxing did not exceed a $35 price point regardless of what the main event might have been. I do however, recall instances where pay-per-view providers like InDemand, then known as Viewer’s Choice would offer promotions in offering events at a slightly reduced cost if ordered in advance while keeping the full retail price in place for those who ordered an event on the day it took place.  I will not bother explaining which method my parents and I would use when such a promotion was offered as it should be self-explanitory.

 

While obviously some events/cards will always do better than others with regard to buys, I would be willing to say that those events at a lower price point tend to do better in terms of overall buys as compared to those that have a much higher price point.  In the current landscape, the only region in the world that offers pay-per-view at a reasonable price point that is similar to my youth and even my early days as a writer covering combat sports in the mid-1990’s is in Europe and more specifically the United Kingdom where most pay-per-view cards do not exceed a £25 price point.  As much as I have criticized the pay-per-view model and will continue to do so for the aforementioned reasons as well as in many cases today, the model simply being used as a source of potential revenue regardless of what might be on the card as opposed to the legitimate “Big Fights,” if the price points were lower, the model may be more successful even if those promoters and networks, the “Hold Outs,” refuse to air every bout on a card as yours truly has suggested would add more value for the price as well as allow those “Hold Outs” as stubborn as they might be, to compete with subscription-based streaming alternatives.

 

Now, the reader may be wondering since I have spent the majority of this column pointing out the flaws of the pay-per-view model as well as offering suggestions as to what I think might at least make it more viable, what else I could have in mind for this year’s “Boxing Wishlist.” Well, the third item on this year’s list is something that frankly needs to happen for the benefit of the sport. Promoters regardless of television network affiliation need to work together on a regular basis to make fights that have significant public interest occur in a more reasonable timeframe than is typically the norm.

 

It is something that is as old as the sport itself that has always been a source of frustration not just for me, but anyone involved in Boxing that truly has the best interest of the sport at heart. How many times throughout Boxing history has there been a scenario where two fighters in or around the same weight class are able to garner significant followings and drum up interest amongst both Boxing fans and experts alike in a potential fight between the two, yet for one reason or another whether it be rival promoters that do not want to work together for their own business interests if nothing else, rival television networks that would rather take cheap shots at competitors rather than offering the best bouts that could be made for their audience, or simply the perception that one fighter, a fighter’s team, and/or a fighter’s promoter ducking another fighter, for one reason or another it results in fights at times taking several years to be made.

 

While some might say that such tactics end up drumming up more interest and make fights even bigger in terms of making them an event, more often than not, when two marquee fighters finally get into the ring, it can and has left a bad taste in the Boxing fan’s mouth and thus leaves the sport open to more criticism and ridicule than really should be the case.  In recent times, despite the willingness of networks like DAZN and ESPN to work together to make fights happen, the PBC side of the equation does not always show such willingness and seems more content to only make fights happen if it happens under their promotional banner and on their broadcast platforms, even if it may be in the best interest of not only the sport, but also the fighters that compete under the PBC platform to face fighters that may not be attached to their platform.  Unfortunately, this serves as a detriment to the sport and benefits no one involved. Much like my thoughts on the pay-per-view model, I don’t expect things to change in 2022, but I hope steps in the right direction are taken, even if it came as a result of a promoter or network trying to survive in the sport.

 

This brings us to the fourth item on this year’s “Boxing Wishlist.” For Boxing’s respective sanctioning organizations to finally come up with an alternative to “Interim/Regular Championship” designations. Those who have followed this observer’s “Boxing Wishlist” for years probably know that this particular item is something that is pretty much a mainstay on the list every year. Although I spend much time during a calendar year pointing out that such designations are not world championships, but are in actuality a number one contender’s designation, the short answer here is though it is well-intended by the sanctioning organizations as a way of ensuring that a top contender gets an opportunity to fight for a world championship one way or another, it is something that needs to be revamped or preferably done away with outright. In 2021, the World Boxing Association (WBA) at least stated their intent to eliminate such designations in their respective rankings per weight division. It goes without saying to any knowledgeable observer that the WBA’s rankings and “Interim/Regular” designations have created more confusion than it has solved problems that more often than not are related to the business end of the sport. Much like the other items on this year’s list, the elimination of “Interim/Regular” designations is something that will not happen overnight and will take time. It is my hope however, that the WBA sticks to their word and that other organizations in the sport that use a similar structure in their rankings follow their lead.

 

The final addition to this year’s “Boxing Wishlist” is something that yours truly has long advocated for and if it were not for the detriment of the pay-per-view model, would have been listed as the number one item on this year’s list rather than the closer. To see Women’s Boxing finally be moved to three minute rounds.

 

Anyone who is familiar with Women’s Boxing knows that the sport for women is in a period of long overdue exposure and recognition. Although thankfully, it is no longer uncommon to see a women’s bout headline a Boxing card either here in the United States or internationally that also features men’s bouts, one thing that continues to be a drawback is the fact that rounds in Women’s Boxing are scheduled for two minutes in duration. While the argument some have used is the two minute round length all but ensures an entertaining fast-paced fight for women competing in the sport, it usually results in fights that may not otherwise go the distance if it were fought under three minute rounds, the same length as men competing in the sport, or very closely scored bouts that could end in draws.

 

When one keeps in mind that the sport of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) allows the women that compete in it to fight for either a three five minute round distance or a five, five minute round distance for world championship fights, the same distance as male MMA fighters, the argument that women boxers should not be allowed to fight for three minutes per round becomes less credible. One should also consider that during the delayed 2020 Olympics, which took place in the summer of 2021, women boxers were allowed to compete in three minute rounds and I personally felt that while there were still bouts that were very competitive and ended in close decisions, the women who competed in those Olympics were able to prove that women boxers are more than capable of Boxing for three minutes per round.  Those who read this observer’s coverage of those Olympics heard me state that it was my hope that those on the professional end of the sport would follow the lead of the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Boxing taskforce and move women’s bouts to three minute rounds. While I would also like to see women allowed to progress to a twelve round distance for world championship fights, the same as their male counterparts, if those who regulate the sport from the respective athletic commissions around the world to the sanctioning organizations would take the step to three minute rounds for female fighters competing in the sport, it would be one more step in the right direction for Women’s Boxing.

 

Unfortunately, all of the items on this year’s “Boxing Wishlist” still comes under the midst of an ongoing global epidemic, which may or may not bring Boxing and the rest of sports to a halt at any given moment due to the several variants of the COVID-19 virus and the obvious uncertainties that come with it. Obviously, I hope that there will be no such pause and that the sport of Boxing will be able to have a full year of action in 2022 as was the case throughout much of 2021. We will have to wait and see what happens, but as a new year has now begun, yours truly is eager to see what is next for the sport of Boxing and to cover the events that unfold throughout 2022.

 

“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

 

 

BREAKING: British Boxing Board of Control Suspends Boxing Events Throughout January Due TO COVID-19

 

 

It has been announced that due to COVID-19’s latest omicron variant that has been spreading throughout the world that the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) has suspended all Boxing cards throughout the month of January throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland. What this does mean is the scheduled January 29^th card featuring a Women’s World Middleweight championship bout between undefeated world champion Claressa Shields and Ema Kozin, as well as a Middleweight bout between former IBO Super-Middleweight world champion Chris Eubank Jr. and Liam Williams that was one of the marquee events on the schedule for January 2022, which was due to co-headline a pay-per-view event here in the United States from Cardiff, Wales, that was already rescheduled from it’s original December 11^th date, has been postponed again. As of this writing, there is no word on whether the card will be attempted to be rescheduled beyond the BBBofC’s January pause.

 

  This however, does not have any impacts on tonight’s scheduled pay-per-view card here in the United States, which will take place at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, FL, which will be headlined by a Heavyweight bout between former IBF Heavyweight world champion Charles Martin and former multi-time world title challenger Luis Ortiz. There has been one replacement opponent on the undercard of the Heavyweight-themed pay-per-view, that will see veteran Christian Hammer step in on short notice to replace Carlos Negron, in a bout against undefeated prospect Frank Sanchez. Negron, was forced to withdraw from the fight earlier in the week due to testing positive for the COVID-19 virus. As of this writing, the card, which can be seen in the United States on Fox Sports Pay-Per-View and FITE, will take place as scheduled. 

 

We will however, keep readers updated on any COVID-19 related postponements/cancellations throughout the world as we learn of them. 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

BREAKING: Golovkin-Murata Middleweight Unification Bout Postponed Due To COVID-19 Restrictions

 

It has been announced that due to the ongoing global COVID-19 epidemic the scheduled December 29^th Middleweight world championship unification bout between IBF/IBO Middleweight world champion Gennady Golovkin and WBA Middleweight world champion, which was scheduled to take place at the Saitama Super Arena in Tokyo, Japan has been postponed. The postponement of the bout, which is due to be broadcast globally by digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN comes as a result of the Japanese government imposing travel restrictions to the country due to the recently discovered Omnicron variant of the COVID-19 virus.

 

As of this writing, there is no word on a rescheduled date or a potential change in venue for the bout once rescheduled.  We will keep readers updated on developments as they become available. 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

 

 

FINALLY! Lopez-Kambosos

 

The first time this observer saw the word “FINALLY!” in relation to the promotion of a Boxing event it was prior to my covering the first encounter between Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield as a young writer, who was honestly just starting to get his feet wet in regard to not only the practice of being a writer, but also covering combat sports when the fight took place with much anticipation in November 1996. Of course, the term “FINALLY!” in all the promotion that surrounded the fight was due to the fact that the fight, which was originally scheduled to take place in June of 1992, but was cancelled due to a Tyson conviction that resulted in a three year jail sentence and the fighters subsequently taking different paths in those years including when Tyson resumed his career in 1995, was finally going to become a reality.

 

There are times however, where the phrase “FINALLY” can and perhaps should be used if not to describe the anticipation of an encounter, than certainly to describe the fact that an often postponed fight that was the result of various elements including, but not limited to illness, and the business elements that be in the sport is “Finally” going to take place. This observer is referring to the battle for the Undisputed Lightweight world championship between undefeated world champion Teofimo Lopez and undefeated IBF number one contender George Kambosos. In the interest of honesty with the reader, yours truly has had his preview for this fight written and sitting in the can since the bout was originally scheduled to take place in April of this year.  While elements of that material will be seen as this column/preview progresses, as most know, this bout has been postponed several times. Although I would prefer both as someone who has covered what has frankly been a fiasco over the past several months that can be referenced in the archives through various articles related to the fight and the Lightweight division here on The Boxing Truth®, the short version is that the champion Lopez first came down with the COVID-19 virus, while it is unfortunately true that the world remains in the midst of the COVID-19 epidemic, that was just the start of things.

 

Unlike where in most circumstances when a fighter is ill, a rescheduled date once it is determined that the fighter is able to compete is made, this fight has seen several starts, stops, and changes in venue due to the inexperience of recent newcomer into the Boxing promotional business Triller. The promotional and entertainment entity that bid $6 million for the rights to promote this fight via an open purse bid held by the International Boxing Federation (IBF). Despite securing those rights and marketing the bout throughout the year to be staged as a pay-per-view event, Triller frequently changed dates and the venue where the bout would take place resulting in a rift between the promoter, the fighters, and the sanctioning organization, the IBF, that quite frankly resembled an ESPN 30 For 30 documentary.

 

In short, in October the IBF ruled that Triller had defaulted on it’s bid to stage the bout, resulting in the more seasoned promoter Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Boxing, who bid over $3 million in that IBF purse bid to step in and stage the fight, which will “FINALLY!” take place on November 27^th at the Theater in Madison Square Garden in New York City, NY, which can be seen globally on globally digital sports streaming network DAZN.

 

Now that yours truly has hopefully brought the reader up to date and hope to have done so in as condensed a way as possible, now we get to the preview of the fight itself. For Teófimo Lopez, who will enter the fight unbeaten with a record of 16-0, with 12 Knockouts, this will be his second title defense and first since unifying the world Lightweight championship to become an undisputed world champion when he defeated Vasyl Lomachenko in October of last year. Lopez, who had built a reputation for his ability to score quick knockouts that many would call head turning or highlight reel worthy, surprised many by showcasing his Boxing ability in the fight against Lomachenko in tactically out Boxing Lomachenko, who was viewed as a significant favorite over twelve rounds to win a wide unanimous decision.

 

The primary thing that Lopez proved in that fight, at least in this observer’s view, was that he was much more than a “Knockout Artist.” While it is very tempting to say that Lopez is the complete package particularly after such an unexpected and impressive performance that he put forth against Lomachenko, I will say for now that at minimum he showed an evolving skillset and that makes him an even more dangerous fighter to face and try to combat.

 

A danger that can be present for a fighter such as Lopez however, is after coming off of such a high in scoring the biggest win of his career in a fight he dominated, the potential to lose focus is there. While obviously we do not know as to whether that potential could be a factor in this fight, what Lopez will be facing in George Kambosos is a fighter that like him is unbeaten.

 

Kambosos, who is undefeated with a record of 19-0, with 10 Knockouts, is a former Australian Lightweight champion, who will have a slight advantage in terms of professional experience over the champion. Currently rated number one by both the International Boxing Federation (IBF) and the World Boxing Organization (WBO), Kambosos is a boxer/puncher who has a very compact style and is a solid counter puncher. The key to this encounter in my eyes is whether or not Kambosos will be able to control the tempo of the combat.

 

Taking Teofimo Lopez’ last performance out of the equation for a moment, Lopez is a fighter who likes to walk his opposition down and land power shots with fight ending intentions. As compact as Kambosos is with his offense, it will be interesting to see whether he will be able to control the tempo against a fighter who is also quick even though that is an aspect of Lopez’ skillset that has not been a focal point of discussion in his career likely due to his ability to end a fight with one punch. Now, re-entering Lopez’ performance against Vasyl Lomachenko back into the equation, the possibility exists that Lopez could once again try to implement a tactical Boxing strategy.

 

An obvious question that will have to be answered by both fighters when they finally get into the ring to do battle is what effects if any have the postponements, as well as the legal issues involving both the IBF and Triller have had on them and their respective preparation for this fight. Boxers are after all human just like the rest of us and there has to be at least a little effect that a fighter has when faced with such circumstances as both Lopez and Kambosos have had over the last several months just trying to get this fight in the ring.

 

While there are other business elements at play regarding Lopez that will follow coming out of this fight that should be discussed, assuming of course in all seriousness that it finally does take place, this observer will close this column by saying that by the look of things, this fight is as close to taking place is it has been throughout 2021 and if Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing can succeed in getting the fight in the ring, the entire sport from the fighters themselves, to contenders in the Lightweight division that have been fighting while Lopez and Kambosos have been stuck in limbo, to those of us who cover the sport can be relieved that “FINALLY” it will happen. We can only hope.

 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

 

Lopez vs. Kambosos takes place on Saturday, November 27^th at The Theater in Madison Square Garden in New York City, NY. The card can be seen globally on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN beginning at 5PM ET/2PM PT with Before The Bell, which will feature preliminary bouts on the undercard followed by the main card, which will begin at 8PM ET/5PM PT. (U.S. Times).

 

*Card Subject To Change.

 

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

 

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

 

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

Alvarez-Plant: The Battle For Super-Middleweight Supremacy

 

The recent career of Saul “Canelo” Alvarez has been marked by a very public split from his longtime promoter Oscar De La Hoya outside of the ring as well as his becoming essentially a free agent while continuing to maintain a relationship with global digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN. Inside the ring however, the last year of Alvarez’ career has seen more frequent activity as well as establishing a working relationship with promoter Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Boxing. A relationship that has seen Alvarez fight three times in under a year in the process winning and successfully unifying three of five Super-Middleweight world championships.  While some may not see a fighter fighting three times in one year as being overly significant, it is extremely rare both due to a fighter like Alvarez’ position as an elite level boxer, but also due to the financial incentives that a fighter like Alvarez can earn on a per fight basis to see a fighter in his position compete so frequently. 

 

Although the public business divorce between Alvarez, De La Hoya, and for a brief period DAZN did not do any of the three any benefit, an argument can be made that perhaps Alvarez being essentially a promotional free agent has allowed him to be as active as he wants to be, which may or may not have been what someone in De La Hoya’s position have wanted. Three dominant victories over Callum Smith, Avni Yildirim, and Billy Joe Saunders over the last year have now led to Alvarez attempting to make history as he will meet undefeated IBF Super-Middleweight champion Caleb Plant on November 6^th to unify the 168lb. division and determine the first undisputed world champion in Super-Middleweight history.

 

Unlike Alvarez’ bouts since December 2018 however, this fight will not be broadcast by DAZN around the world, but rather will be broadcast on a medium that Alvarez left when he originally signed with DAZN, pay-per-view as this bout will be broadcast in the United States by Showtime Pay-Per-View and in the United Kingdom on BT Sport Box Office Pay-Per-View. The reason for this whether it is something that will be admitted publicly or not has to do with Caleb Plant’s association with the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) group of promoters and more specifically his advisor Al Haymon who has an exclusive deal with Showtime and Fox Sports in the United States and BT Sport in the United Kingdom.

 

Some may recall that negotiations for this bout broke down for a period of time due to what was reported as Alvarez’ refusing to sign a multi-fight agreement to fight under the PBC banner. While this was a temporary break down in negotiation, it did show Alvarez’ desire to make history by choosing to fight on a different platform and for the time being return to an overpriced and outdated model of pay-per-view, despite being in a position where he had more leverage as the marquee attraction, the “A-Side Fighter” for lack of a better term. While this is no disrespect to the undefeated Plant, who will enter this fight having successfully defended his IBF crown three times since winning the title in January 2019, some may question the motives of the PBC or perhaps Haymon by insisting this fight take place on their platform rather than looking out for the best interest of Plant, who one might argue could have made more money by facing Alvarez under the DAZN platform.

 

Nevertheless, Plant will be making an estimated $10 million for this fight, which is still by far a career high for him. The business elements of the sport, which often does not serve to Boxing’s benefit notwithstanding, Plant does pose an interesting challenge for Alvarez, despite going into this fight as a significant underdog.

 

Why is the undefeated Plant an underdog? The reason primarily is because, despite being unbeaten in twenty-one professional bouts, he has not fought opposition that is comparable to that of Saul Alvarez. Even though it is indeed true that all a fighter can do is face the opposition that is placed before them, an argument can be made that it is a flaw of the PBC model in that there are times where fighters such as Plant either world champions or top contenders struggle to get the type of marquee fights they deserve due to the PBC’s seeming unwillingness to work with promoters from outside their banner on a regular basis. Their insistence that this fight take place under their banner is perhaps a reflection of that argument.

 

Caleb Plant however, is an unbeaten fighter who is a boxer/puncher that likes to gradually break his opponents down over the course of a fight. He has also shown the ability to out work his opponents throughout a fight to win convincing decisions. It is indisputable however, that the story of this fight will be whether or not Plant will be able to do either against a fighter of Alvarez’ caliber in what is a significant step up in class of opposition.

 

What makes Saul Alvarez so dangerous is that he is very compact with his offense, has the ability to hurt an opponent with either hand, and is a world-class counter puncher. Plant does have twelve knockouts in his twenty-one career wins, but is at a significant disadvantage when it comes to overall experience and also experience competing at this level of the sport against Alvarez, who is a veteran of fifty-nine professional bouts and who’s only official loss came against Floyd Mayweather when he was competing as a 154lb. Jr. Middleweight.

 

Although Plant is the naturally bigger man compared to Alvarez, Alvarez has shown since moving to 168lbs. that he is not only capable of fighting men who are taller, longer, and theoretically stronger than himself, but thus far he has been dominant. A reason for this beyond his aforementioned attributes is he continues to evolve and with each fight has proven to be an increasingly difficult puzzle for opponents to solve. How can Caleb Plant be one of the few fighters to have success against Alvarez and possibly defeat him?

 

It is crucial that Plant find a way to get Alvarez’ respect early. Despite facing opposition that seemingly have an edge over him physically in several of his recent fights, Saul Alvarez has almost been like a stalker in the sense that he implements a systematic approach in being able to gradually walk his opponents down and being able to at times quickly negate an opponent’s physical advantages. One aspect that can be overshadowed by how well Alvarez is able to execute his offense is he is also very sound in regard to defense in particular his use of head movement. Plant must find a way to nullify Alvarez’ ability to gain control of the tempo of a fight early on. If he does not and allows Alvarez to get into a rhythm, it may prove to be a difficult task for Plant to win a decision particularly because he is not known as a power puncher and even opponents that arguably have a higher profile have found it difficult to win rounds against Alvarez.

 

Unlike many high-profile unification bouts throughout the sport's history, this fight seems to have more of the business elements that surrounded this fight being made in the minds of many Boxing fans and even some who have painted this as a blow that DAZN will find it hard to come back from. Despite this being for an undisputed world championship and my feeling that the fight should be the focus, I would be lying to the reader if I said I was not curious as to how this fight will do in terms of pay-per-view buys compared to some of Saul Alvarez’ recent fights on a global subscription-based model that is generally of better value to Boxing fans. Even with the likelihood that Alvarez will return to DAZN after this fight due to the financial incentives that are available to him, one would be justified to wonder whether or not there will be some backlash from fans who may not be as eager to shell out $79.99 in the United States for one card when a yearly subscription to DAZN costs the consumer $99 with no pay-per-view add-ons. While the latter has been the subject of much speculation recently, it is revealing that Showtime who has seen the ratings of several of their Boxing broadcasts under perform and has seen several of their pay-per-view events struggle to exceed 200,000 buys at price points similar to this fight that the network currently is planning three pay-per-view events in a 30-day period with Alvarez-Plant being the first of those events.

 

Of course, if you are competing with a network)/platform that is changing the model and that model seems to be more consumer-friendly than what you’re company is offering, the obvious response would be to attempt to downplay and/or outright insult the competitor if you are in Showtime’s position, which has been the case periodically from those running Showtime Sports with regard to the progress DAZN has made. Obviously, DAZN much like other entities have also seen their share of struggles over the last year due largely to the ongoing global COVID-19 epidemic. This observer will always be honest with his readers and in all truth and honesty, I fail to see how three pay-per-view cards at inflated price points in a 30-day period serves in the interest of the fans that support the sport especially as the COVID-19 crisis remains ongoing. Yours truly has no doubt however, that those at Showtime and perhaps even its parent company ViacomCBS will attempt a public relations spin to make it appear like such practices are beneficial both to the sport itself as well as the fans that support it in good times and bad. If recent history has taught us anything it is that the consumer generally wants more value for their money.

 

As we have seen, most pay-per-view Boxing cards including the recent third bout between Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder, which tapped out at around 600,000 buys at the same price point as the Alvarez-Plant bout and well short of the one million buys promoters had predicted in order for the event to be profitable, sometimes it does not matter who is on a card or how great a fight might be as Fury-Wilder3 was, if the majority of the public does not see value for their money and more importantly, feels priced out, events like this will ultimately not be successful. It would also be a shame if Alvarez-Plant turns out to be a great fight that only a fraction of a potential audience chooses to tune in to see. No matter what spin a network’s brass or a promoter might attempt, it can simply be described by two words “Bad Business.” For all involved, the network, the promoters, the fans who feel cheated by being asked to pay such expensive fees, but also the fighters who are often lured by the promise of more money via potential pay-per-view revenue that more often than not does not live up to let alone exceed expectations. “Bad Business“ indeed.

 

In terms of what to expect when Alvarez and Plant meet to fully unify the 168lb. Super-Middleweight division on Saturday night, hopefully we will see a fight that exceeds expectations inside the ring. Despite the business elements of the sport that seem to continue to prove that it refuses to get out of Boxing’s way and present the sport in such a manner that it serves Boxing’s best interest as well as the fans who support it,  and not necessarily those who rule on the business end of the sport.

 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

 

Alvarez vs. Plant takes place on Saturday, November 6^th at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, NV. The bout as well as a three-fight undercard can be seen in the United States on Showtime Pay-Per-View for $79.99. The pay-per-view broadcast will begin at 9PM ET/6PM PT and will be available across cable/satellite telco providers in the United States and Canada as well as through the Showtime app on mobile, tablet, connected streaming devices and Smart TV’s. For more information on how to order via the Showtime app please visit: www.sho.com/PPV.

 

In the United Kingdom and Ireland, the bout can be seen on BT Sport Box Office Pay-Per-View beginning at Midnight (Sunday, November 7^th) for £19.99. For more information and to order please visit: https://www.bt.com/sport/box-office/

 

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

 

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

 

 

Belated Garcia-Martin Thoughts

A quote that this observer has referenced often over the years in regard to unexpected things occurring is one that came from the Hall of Fame trainer and former fighter Freddie Roach who in the prelude to Manny Pacquiao’s victory over Oscar De La Hoya in December 2008 said as many felt that his fighter Pacquiao had bitten off more than he could chew by jumping up significantly in weight to face the bigger and theoretically stronger De La Hoya “If there were no upsets in the world, the world would be boring.” As many know, Pacquiao went on to score a dominant victory over De La Hoya in which he forced him to quit on his stool and into retirement. Truly one of the milestones in Pacquiao’s legendary career.

Of course, upsets are not something that is exclusive to the sport of Boxing, but is something that occurs throughout all of sport. Recently, this was proven in Baseball where in the divisional round of the American League playoffs, the Boston Red Sox, a team that got into the divisional stage courtesy of winning the wildcard against the New York Yankees, upset the number one seeded Tampa Bay Rays, a team that had won the American League championship in 2020, and after winning one hundred games in baseball’s regular-season this year, appeared to be a lock to at least return to the World Series this year. Despite being shut out in game one of the best of five series, Boston came back to defeat the Rays in three straight games to eliminate them from the playoffs and advance to the American League championship series where they are currently facing the Houston Astros. Certainly, all logic suggested that the Tampa Bay Rays were likely to steamroll past the Red Sox much in the same way they had against virtually every team they had faced during the regular season in becoming one of the rare teams to win over a hundred games during a season. Sometimes logic and sports do not mix.

The sport of Boxing meanwhile saw a significant upset in September when former undefeated Cruiserweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk scored a twelve round unanimous decision over two-time unified Heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua. While the reader may question why yours truly has used as examples, it is to show that even the most seasoned of those who cover sports and the most seasoned of sports fan should always expect the unexpected.

Such a scenario occurred on October 16th at the Chuchansi Park minor league baseball stadium in Fresno, CA where former four-division world champion Mikey Garcia faced Sandor Martin in a ten round Welterweight bout. Garcia is obviously one of the more accomplished fighters in the sport currently having won world titles from the 126lb. Featherweight division to the 140lb. Jr. Welterweight division. In his only career defeat, Garcia was out boxed in a one-sided decision loss to undefeated IBF Welterweight world champion Errol Spence in March 2019.

Although it is arguable that Garcia has not been the same fighter since moving into the Welterweight division, he still managed to look impressive against former WBO Welterweight world champion Jessie Vargas in his first fight since suffering the loss to Spence in February 2020. Garcia, much like many fighters throughout the entire sport saw his career stall after that victory due largely to the ongoing global COVID-19 epidemic. After over a year of inactivity, which was approaching nearly two years, Garcia’s bout against Sandor Martin was curious in the eyes of some.

Despite entering the fight with a respectable record of 38-2, with 13 Knockouts and being the current European Jr. Welterweight champion, Martin was not particularly well-known in the United States and was thought by some as merely an opponent for Garcia to work off “Ring Rust.” While we do live in a time where many fans can express their opinion freely and unfortunately can resort to conduct that is not exemplary online in expressing those opinions, I believe that the view that Martin was lightly regarded is simply due to the fact that he had not fought in the United States before this fight and more specifically had not fought anyone of Garcia’s caliber in his career. While everyone is certainly entitled to their own opinion, Martin had been one of the fighters that has been able to benefit from the era of streaming technology in being showcased on international cards thanks to promoter Eddie Hearn’s broadcast agreement with global digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN, so I believe not only based on the benefits that such technology offers, but also Martin’s style that he should have been held in higher regard by those who felt that this was a soft touch for Garcia to resume activity.

Martin is after all a southpaw and a fighter who is a slick boxer in any fighter with those attributes is bound to create some difficulty even for high profile opposition such as Garcia. Nevertheless, I did wonder how he would respond to the atmosphere of not only fighting in the United States for the first time, but also fighting under circumstances where Garcia was the significant fan favorite and fighting in Garcia’s home state of California. 

Despite being a significant underdog with all boxes seemingly checked against him, Martin came into this encounter with a calculated, tactical fight plan that he seemingly executed to near perfection. By making full use of the ring and use of his lateral movement, Martin was able to dictate how the fight was being fought even though Garcia was the one who consistently came forward and forced the action throughout. How did Martin do this? One aspect was that he was able to frequently catch Garcia with offense as he came forward whether it be with straight punches with either hand or hooks. What made this a more effective strategy was that Martin was in the process also able to evade Garcia or block a good majority of his offense as he came forward.

There were no thrills to write about in this fight, but what became noticeable as it progressed was that Martin’s strategy was working so well that it pretty much quelled the largely pro-Garcia crowd that had come to Chuchansi Park to support their favorite. Although a boxer who puts an emphasis on technique as opposed to trying to win the crowd over does not always endear a fighter to a crowd, particularly one that is accustomed to seeing action-packed fights, if one looked at this fight objectively, it was hard not to be impressed with Martin’s performance in skillfully out boxing a former four-division world champion in the biggest fight of his career. While Garcia was able to have his moments sporadically throughout the bout, what made the difference beyond Martin’s ability to control the ebb and flow of the fight was Martin was also landing the more effective punches of the two fighters.

Due to the pace in which the fight was fought however, it was nevertheless a close fight and as I have often said through the years, you really never know which was three official judges might be leaning, particularly when a fight favors a fighter that is a fan favorite in his home region going against a fighter who while skillful and had proven his ability throughout the fight, was a relative unknown to those in the United States whom Boxing is of casual interest. Nevertheless, at the conclusion of the ten round bout, I felt that Sandor Martin had done enough to earn the decision and had done so convincingly even though he did not appear to hurt Garcia at any point throughout the fight as I scored it 97-93 or seven rounds to three unofficially in his favor. 

Perhaps it is a sign of this observer’s experience in covering Boxing for most of my life as well as having watched the sport on all levels since I was a young child, but it did not surprise me to see one official judge see the fight exactly the way I did. In this case however, two of three official judges saw it exactly the same way as yours truly in turning in identical scorecards of 97-93 in Martin’s favor making him the winner by majority decision. What was a bit surprising however, was that one judge saw the fight even 95-95 resulting in the majority ruling. 

Although I do not have to tell regular readers that I have certainly seen stranger decisions rendered and far more controversial scorecards turned in, many of which I have written extensively about both online and in print, the reason why I was surprised in this circumstance was more so in thinking that perhaps Garcia’s consistent aggression throughout, albeit ineffective aggression may have been enough to sway at least one scorecard in his favor if not sway the majority of the three official judges outright. While I am not by any means suggesting that I expected to see what would amount to a “Hometown Decision”, there are some judges working throughout the sport that seem to give more credit in their criteria to the element of aggression as opposed to ring generalship and defense, as well as clean effective punching. This can also be a detriment to European fighters who travel here to the United States, who like Sandor Martin, have highly technical Boxing-based styles where the emphasis more often than not is on technique as opposed to trying to score knockouts or being known as an “Action Fighter.”

Boxing nevertheless will always be a sport of opportunity and no matter what a fighter’s background might be going into a fight, there is always the chance that they can score a major victory and almost instantly change their standing in the sport. This is exactly the position that Sandor Martin now finds himself in after scoring a major upset in the biggest win of his career over Mikey Garcia. Although he is still the European Jr. Welterweight champion, obviously, the odds of Martin potentially challenging for a world championship in 2022 in either the Jr. Welterweight or Welterweight divisions have naturally increased off of this victory. 

Of course, there is also the possibility of a rematch with Garcia, which given Garcia’s stature in the sport may be likely to happen before Martin can set his sights on challenging for a world championship. Although Mikey Garcia was simply out boxed by a crafty, and slick tactician, this observer does not know if a rematch between the two would turn out to be any different than this fight was. Styles do indeed make fights and if Martin were to approach the rematch with the same type of tactical approach as he did in this fight, it is hard for me to see the fight going differently. It is however, certainly not impossible and all eyes will obviously be on Garcia if/when these two fighters square off for a second time.

“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 

Thunderdome 36 Results From Metro City, Perth, Australia

 

CREDIT: Dragon Fire Boxing 

Unbeaten Heavyweight Dylan Winter scored a brutal fourth round knockout over Ryan Williams to win the Western Australian State Heavyweight championship on Friday night at Metro City Nightclub in Perth, Australia. In what was the main event of promoter Tony Tolj’s Dragon Fire Boxing’s Thunderdome 36 event saw the two fighters engage in what could be described as a brawl early. For a period of time, Williams was landing hard right hands over a jab on Winter. As Winter began to get his own jab going however, the momentum shifted and he was able to gradually accumulate punishment on Williams, the end came when in the midst of a barrage of punches, Winter decked Williams with a flush left hook to the head that sent him flat on his back on the canvas. Although Williams was very “Game” in trying to get up from a knockdown that frankly would have ended the night for most fighters on the receiving end of that kind of punch, he staggered badly once he got to his feet and the bout was justifiably stopped. Dylan Winter advances to 4-0, with 2 Knockouts. Ryan Williams falls to 1-3, with 1 Knockout. 

 

Also on this card:

 

Undefeated Heavyweight Matt Floyd scored a first round knockout of veteran Ivan Kolar. Floyd dropped Kolar with a left hook to the body early in the round and ended up sealing the knockout victory by dropping Kolar for a second time with a follow up body shot moments after the first knockdown. Official time of the stoppage was 1:37 of round one. Matt Floyd advances to 3-0, with 1 Knockout. Ivan Kolar falls to 1-10, with 1 Knockout.

 

A bout for the vacant Women’s ANBF (Australian) Bantamweight championship saw undefeated Sarah Higginson score a fourth round stoppage of a debuting Danni Mace. A fight that was fought at a very high pace from the opening bell saw Higginson gradually wear her opponent down in route to a fourth round stoppage. Official time of the stoppage was 1:02 of round four. Sarah Higginson advances to 3-0-1, with 1 Knockout. Danni Mace falls to 0-1, with 0 Knockouts.

 

In a battle for the vacant Western Australia State Featherweight championship unbeaten Ty Narkle score a four round technical majority decision over Richard Lockett. A competitive fight from the outset, where both fighters had their share of moments, the bout was halted at the conclusion of four completed rounds of the scheduled eight round contest due to cuts suffered over the eyes of Narkle that were deemed caused by an accidental clash of heads. Official scores were 39-37 (On two scorecards), and 38-38. Ty Narkle advances to 2-0, with 1 Knockout. Richard Lockett falls to 3-2, with 2 Knockouts.  

 

Debuting Jr. Middleweight Joe McCoy scored a first round knockout of previously unbeaten Michael Warren. McCoy dropped Warren hard with a left hook, right hand combination to the head. Warren was able to get up, but had no defense for the follow up barrage from McCoy and the bout was stopped. Official time was 2:15 of round one. Joe McCoy advances to 1-0, with 1 Knockout Michael Warren falls to 1-1, with 1 Knockout.  

 

In an exhibition Light-Heavyweight bout Curtis MacClean scored a first round stoppage of Jyve Jolvar. Official time of the stoppage was :45 of round one.

 

Heavyweight Lewis Clarke scored a second round stoppage over a debuting Jake Cull. A slugfest from the outset where there was no technique, Clarke eventually got to his opponent in the second round by knocking Cull down with a left hook, right uppercut combination to the head. Despite going down hard, Cull was able to beat the count, but the effects of both fatigue as well as the punishment Clarke was dishing out led to a second knockdown from a barrage of punches. Cull appeared to indicate after getting up from the second knockdown that he did not want any more, but the fight continued until it was stopped at 1:59 of round two when both fighters went to the canvas from what appeared to be a tackle. Lewis Clarke advances to 2-1, with 2 Knockouts. Jake Cull falls to 0-1, with 0 Knockouts.

 

Unbeaten Jr. Middleweight Jordan La Ruccia scored a first round stoppage of Harlem Ottaway. La Ruccia appeared to stagger Ottaway in the opening seconds with a series of jabs and unleashed a near all-out assault from there mixing offense to the head and body. La Ruccia dropped Ottaway with an overhand right and although Ottaway managed to get up at the count of nine, he simply had no answer to stop La Ruccia and after a follow-up barrage the bout was stopped. Official time of the stoppage was 1:28 of round one. Jordan La Ruccia advances to 2-0, with 1 Knockout. Harlem Ottaway falls to 0-2, with 0 Knockouts.

 

The evening began with two exhibition bouts that saw in a Middleweight bout, Mehdi Al Munssary score a three round decision over Kris Mauriere This was followed by Light-Heavyweight Nelson Cosmas scoring a three round decision over Ryan Dave.

 

Dragon Fire Boxing has established itself as one of the top promoters in Australia and it’s popular Thunderdome series has served as a platform for rising prospects on the Australian Boxing scene. Since the ongoing global COVID-19 epidemic began, many promoters have had difficult for obvious reasons in staging events that would otherwise comprise of a normally full Boxing schedule regardless of where they may be based throughout the world. A casualty of that unfortunately is many young fighters who are in the crucial development stages of their careers have seen their progress delayed or outright stalled due to circumstances beyond anyone’s control. Series like the Thunderdome series are vital to the growth and overall success of the entire sport. One can only hope that the circumstances of the COVID-19 virus and subsequent crisis finally improve where promoters around the globe can finally resume activity akin to normal. As for the Australian Boxing scene, we will see what happens when the next Thunderdome event takes place and whether the prospects that appeared on this card at varying levels will be able to take the necessary next steps in their development towards being contenders.

 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

 

Thunderdome 36 promotional poster courtesy of Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission.

 

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

 

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

THE TALES OF BOXING'S QUARANTINE KING - AUSSIE BOXINGS TONY TOLJ

 

 Press Release: September 25, 2021 By Dragon Fire Boxing /Story By Chris Glover – Tony Tolj has experienced likely every challenge that global travelling has during the last two years, with his charges Andrew and Jason Moloney signing with global boxing leaders Top Rank just prior to the beginning of the COVID-19 Global Pandemic. 

Credit: Mikey Williams/Top Rank Boxing

The Moloney's have travelled back and forth to the USA for camps, culminating in fights with Joshua Franco, Josh Greer and the arguable pound for pound King Naoya Inoue. With Tolj based in Western Australia, and the Moloney's on Australia's Gold Coast, it hasn't been the easiest of tasks 

Tolj discussed some of the issues he's faced over the last two years. He said, "I've spent a total of just under 6 months in quarantine since the pandemic commenced. Human beings are social creatures, so keeping them locked up isn't good for their mental and physical health in general. The hardest part for me has been, being stuck in hotels with no ventilation and no fresh air for two week stretches.

"I live in Perth, Western Australia, so after doing two weeks in a hotel then I spend another two weeks at home which is very difficult. Two weeks isn’t too bad mentally but getting into week three and four is bad. I run a business, and I have to stay switched on for that. Nights begin to turn into days because you're not functioning as a human naturally so your sleeping goes everywhere. It's a complete nightmare, literally."

As previously stated, the Moloney brothers have been involved in some elite level clashes over the last 2 years, with Andrew Moloney having three fights with Joshua Franco for the WBA world super flyweight title being one of the most high profile contests in the lower weights globally. The Aussie boxing baron Tolj recollected the issues he faced during that fight from a travel standpoint.

Tolj said, "The worst stretch was after the disappointment of the phantom headbutt in Moloney Franco II fight. I then had to do two weeks in a hotel and two weeks at home. What's made it worse was the domestic borders were then open then, so I went back to Sydney a couple days later for Bruno Tarimo vs Paul Fleming which was a draw due to a head clash. Bruno was up on the cards prior to the stoppage. I was there for 4 days and then there was a COVID detection in Sydney's Northern beaches. So there was a lockdown then. I then went to the Gold Coast for another fight and there was another head clash but the fight continued and Ty Payne won. 

"After all that I went home and had to do another two weeks home quarantine where it is strictly enforced. So basically six weeks out of seven weeks was in some form of quarantine, and technically I was in seven of the eight weeks as I was in the bubble at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. It's torture for me right now, and I keep thinking of we are the champions by Queen in my head, I’ve done my sentence but committed no crime but after I get out of this quarantine I roll straight into Dragon Fire Boxing's Thunderdome 36 event at Metro City, Perth. No more sad stories hopefully, just proper ones!"

Material Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing/ Story By Chris Glover/ Photo Courtesy of: Mikey Williams/ Top Rank 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 registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

 

Can Molina Get Back In The Win Column

 

There are some stories in Boxing that are go hand and hand with the sport. One of the most common is the story of a former world champion continuing on with their career in search of another opportunity at a world championship. Former IBF Jr. Middleweight world champion Carlos Molina is one such tale of a former champion that has continued on in hopes of getting another opportunity at a world title. Some may recall Molina winning the IBF crown from Cory Spinks in February 2013 in winning a twelve round unanimous decision to take the title from the former two-division world champion. After a successful title defense over former world champion Ishe Smith later that year, Molina lost his crown to Cornelius Bundrage in October 2014.

Since then, Molina’s career inside the ring has seen the ups and downs that many fighters experience over the course of a long career. Along the way, Molina has taken a route that some boxers have in choosing to take a true entrepreneurial approach to his career by becoming a promoter and choosing to compete under his own promotional banner. In more recent times, this has included staging cards in his native Mexico in the midst of the ongoing global COVID-19 epidemic in being one of the first promoters that was able to resume staging events even if it came under circumstances where no spectators have been allowed to attend. Molina has also taken advantage of ever evolving technology by using the power of the internet to stream his events to a worldwide audience including through Facebook among other platforms.

After building an unbeaten run of eight bouts in which he scored knockouts in four of those fights, Molina traveled to Coventry, England in May of this year where he lost a twelve round unanimous decision to former European Welterweight champion Sam Eggington in a Middleweight bout. Although he came out on the losing end of the decision in that fight, Molina showed his veteran know how in pushing Eggington throughout and gave a good account of himself in defeat.

Now with a record of 37-12-2, with 12 Knockouts, Molina now prepares to take a step forward in an effort to bounce back as he will face Juan Carlos Raygosa on Friday, September 24^th at the Posada Hotel Don Vasco in Patzcuaro, Mexico in a card promoted by Molina’s King Carlos Promotions and streamed globally by digital combat sports network and pay-per-view platform FITE TV.

This will be a rematch of a fight that Molina and Raygosa had in November of last year in which Molina was able to score a ten round unanimous decision. Although Raygosa can be described by a term that this observer does not like to use, as a “Journeyman”, as he will enter this rematch with Molina with a record of 17-17-3, with 6 Knockouts, he has only been stopped in four of those seventeen career defeats and has not been stopped in his last eight bouts stretching over the last two years. 

While this frankly has all the appearance of a “Stay Busy” and a “Bounce Back” fight for Molina given his opponent’s record and the fact that Raygosa will enter having lost two of his last five including the loss to Molina, the bottom line is fighters like Raygosa do serve a role in the sport that can be underappreciated by some fans, a fighter who is willing to get in the ring on a frequent basis, at times on short notice, regardless of who the opposition might be. As a result, despite the appearance that a record like the one Raygosa will have going into this fight, these type of fighters are often the most active in the sport because if nothing else, they almost always give a solid effort win or lose and their willingness to fight as often as possible, will often make them an asset to many promoters who look to fill out their cards.

What this fight does boil down to for Molina at least in terms of his career as a fighter is whether or not he will be able to bounce back from a setback earlier this year and continue the overall momentum he has been able to build in recent years even if the majority of his victories in recent times has come against opposition that some may hold in little regard. Much like Raygosa, Carlos Molina is a veteran of the Boxing ring and the bottom line is the more active a fighter is, the better that fighter’s odds of being ready to step into an opportunity whether that comes in the form of a world championship bout, or a bout against a rising or top contender is. The more active a fighter is, the more that fighter is able to win, the better the chance that the phone will ring with the next potential opportunity.

Whether or not an opportunity will come for the former world champion to challenge once more for a world title remains to be seen. Molina does have one thing going for him in that he does have himself set up to continue in the sport after his career inside the ring is over. Something that frankly all fighters regardless of their standing in the sport, the level in which they compete on, should all learn from.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

Molina vs. Raygosa II takes place on Friday, September 24^th at the Posada Hotel Don Vasco in Patzcuaro, Mexico. The fight as well as it’s full undercard can be seen globally on digital combat sports network and pay-per-view platform FITE TV beginning at 8PM ET/5PM for $9.99 (U.S. Time.) For more information on FITE, including schedules and for instructions on how to download the FITE app on mobile, tablet, and connected streaming devices/platforms/Smart TVs, please visit: http://www.FITE.TV. To order Molina vs. Raygosa II download the FITE app or click the following link:  ▷ "King" Carlos Molina vs Juan Carlos Raygoza II - Official PPV Live Stream - FITE. For more information on King Carlos Promotions please visit King Carlos Promotions Official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/KingCarlosPromotions.

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

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Holyfield-Belfort: What's Wrong With Boxing?

It would not be appropriate for this observer not to begin this column without being honest with the reader when I say that I took several days to write this column. Not in the sense that I have been grinding away in the writing process, a process that all writers regardless of genre truly appreciate whether all of us will admit it or not, but in the sense that I needed time to compose myself mentally due to feeling something I have not felt in the two and a half decades that I have been writing about and covering Boxing in addition to other combat sports. The feeling of absolute utter disgust and embarrassment for the sport that I have loved since I was a little kid. A feeling that hit me when I watched the recent pay-per-view event promoted by Triller headlined by an eight round Heavyweight bout between two-division world champion and Boxing Hall of Famer Evander Holyfield and former UFC world champion Vitor Belfort. An event and bout that left not only the feelings I have described, but also made me sick to my stomach.

Why is that? Out of respect for the reader, I won’t rehash the circumstances that led to the Holyfield-Belfort bout as I already covered that in a preview that was released here on The Boxing Truth® leading up to the September 11^th event. In short, the event consisted of Holyfield, a man whose health and well-being have been of significant concern for yours truly over the years that had been cited frequently in my various writings through the years, now a month away from his fifty-ninth birthday, stepping into a fight on a little more than one week’s notice and having not competed professionally in well over a decade to face Belfort. A fight that was rejected by the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) both due to Holyfield’s age as well as the physical punishment that he had sustained over a long career.  This resulted in Triller moving the event headlined by this bout from Los Angeles, which was to be the original location to Hollywood, FL. While I will not do a full rehash, readers who read the preview for this bout saw me speculate in reference that the move to Florida was licensing motivated.

Although at the time I was merely making a suggestion, it turns out I was very close to being spot on. In the days leading up to the event, I deliberately made the decision to stay away from aspects of a promotion that is normally a fixture for any significant Boxing event during what is often referred to as “Fight Week.” While such things as fighter workouts, press conferences, and weigh-ins are aspects that have frankly become easier to observe for those of us who cover the sport, but cannot travel to events to cover Boxing cards in person, I really had no interest in observing much of this particular card’s “Fight Week” events. Perhaps it was a premonition, but I knew it would likely be better for me as someone who truly cares for the sport and the fighters that risk their lives every single time they get in the ring, to provide the coverage that I did as well as the normal weigh-in report that came the day before the event and to stay away from the aspects that I just did not have a good feeling about. I will not go into the various aspects of the event that surrounded politics as I avoided that as well, but the primary reason I avoided watching things like fighter workouts and press conferences was being I felt if I had watched them, it would have prevented me from doing my duty in covering the bout because those concerns for Holyfield’s well-being that I had written extensively on during the latter stages of his career would surface and I probably would not have been able to cover the bout with a clear mind.

Of course, I would be lying if I said that even with my decision to avoid “Fight Week” events that it removed all concern. Obviously, it was still in the back of my mind, but at least by making that decision, I was able to keep a somewhat “Wait and See” approach as I have made reference to in regard to other fights, I have covered that were subject to criticism and ridicule.  It was not surprising to me however, to see and hear the day before the fight as well as prior to the event on the day of, increased concern for Holyfield. While my concern never ceased, I did feel encouraged that at least I was not the only one who felt this way in hearing various people throughout the sport echo the same sentiment that I had. Perhaps the most telling among them came from various reports from various media outlets including noted Boxing journalist Dan Rafael that Jim Lampley, longtime former lead announcer for HBO’s Boxing broadcasts for decades prior to the network’s decision in 2018 to exit Boxing after forty-five years, who had recently signed with Triller to return to broadcasting Boxing, reportedly opted out of calling this event after seeing Holyfield participate in a workout. While only Lampley himself can say why he chose to opt out of what had been an anticipated debut for him on Triller’s platform, much like myself, I feel he likely did not want to see Holyfield get hurt and did not want to be a party to what might have been a tragedy.

Further adding to my concern prior to the event was learning that the Florida State Athletic Commission (FSAC) did not require a CT scan or any other neurological screening for fighters prior to granting licensing. Something that is normally standard in most states that regularly stage and regulate Boxing and other combat sports events. As much as I wanted to give this the benefit of doubt and have that “Wait and See” mentality, as the event neared, I became increasingly angry. More so, because of the appearance that this gave that this was something that was financially driven as opposed to ensuring the safety of not just Holyfield, but all fighters that compete. Despite the anger and uneasy feelings I had, I did what I normally do and prepared to cover the bout.

When the time finally came for Holyfield and Belfort to get in the ring at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, I will be honest in saying that at least visually before the fight started Holyfield appeared to be in great condition especially given his age and the toll a long career in the sport of Boxing takes on one’s body. Obviously, I know that the way a fighter’s body might appear rarely if ever means anything once punches are being thrown, but giving credit where it is due, Holyfield did look like he had been in training. As the bell rang to begin the fight however, my concerns quickly proved to be valid as Holyfield immediately showed an inability to maintain his balance and after being dropped with the first punch he was struck with in the first round, I immediately wanted to see the fight stopped. Evander Holyfield will always be remembered for being a true warrior in the sport. Someone who no matter what always gave it everything he had and never quit. Unfortunately, that mentality that boxers and other combat athletes have can lead to dangerous situations. I was not surprised to see Holyfield get up from the knockdown, but my concern was that I was about to see something tragic. Referee Sam Burgos allowed Holyfield to continue, but as Belfort unleashed a barrage of unanswered punches as Holyfield tried desperately to cover up and block the punches with no balance, Burgos stepped in and stopped the fight.

In the interest of honesty with the reader, I was relieved when the fight was stopped. What had all the appearance of an event that was strictly financially driven and subsequently greenlit by what by all accounts seems to be an inept state athletic commission that appeared to turn a blind eye to not only the preventive actions of the CSAC in refusing to sanction Holyfield, but also a deaf ear to those voicing their concerns throughout the sport, at least Referee Sam Burgos did what the Florida State Athletic Commission wouldn’t. Protect Holyfield against himself and make sure that at least Holyfield could leave the ring under his own power from a fight that should not have been allowed to begin with.

If this point of view appears harsh, I sincerely apologize to anyone who may feel that way including, but not limited to those who work for the Florida State Athletic Commission who may be reading this column. As I have said before, this observer has no agenda beyond giving the reader an honest and objective point of view. As much as Holyfield has meant to the sport, as much as I enjoyed covering his fights from the mid-1990’s through till his retirement in 2011, as much as I was a fan of his prior to my covering Boxing, the man had no business getting in a ring to compete at fifty-nine years of age and there is no bigger picture that one whether they be fans, Triller, or even the state athletic commission could use as a viable argument as justification for what happened here.

Some will make the argument that “Well, it was Holyfield’s choice and he knows the risks.” This may be true however, state regulation of combat sports exists for a reason and it is a state’s athletic commission’s responsibility to ensure not only that rules and regulations are followed, but also that the safety of those who compete is always the first priority even if staging an event might have some economic incentives for a given state. In this case, the state of Florida failed and if it were not for Sam Burgos, this event may have had a more tragic outcome.

As often happens when things like this are allowed to occur, there is always repercussions that occur either through the public, within the sport, or with state athletic commissions that do not want the bad publicity that comes with bad decisions that are made. While as of this writing the FSAC has not issued any statements regarding what frankly is an embarrassment both for the state and the sport of Boxing, I knew despite sharing my own thoughts in the immediate aftermath through my social media platforms that this was the first time in my career covering the sport that I felt utterly embarrassed for the sport I have loved my whole life, I also knew that there would be more that would come out of this in terms of fallout, which was one reason in addition to wanting to give myself time to digest things, I knew in the back of my mind that there would be some fallout from the event.

Earlier this week, an email was sent to yours truly from Denise White who is the CEO of EAG Sports Management, who during the week prior to the event had sent out promotional material on behalf of Triller related to the Holyfield-Belfort event. The subject of this email read simply “ EAG Sports Management is NO LONGER Working with Triller Fight Club or Triller EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY!” Upon seeing this in my inbox, I opened the email to read a one sentence statement Quote “ Feel free to print that!” After reading this email I reached out and asked for a statement further clarifying why EAG Sports Management was no longer involved with Triller. In response, Mrs. White responded to this observer’s request for a statement by answering simply Quote “We had a difference of professional opinion.”

Although this could be wider in scope as simply the fallout of an event that got people talking for all the wrong reasons, the timing of such communication does give the appearance that it does have something to do with the Holyfield-Belfort fallout. This was followed by news earlier this week that Peter Khan, a longtime Boxing manager and advisor among other roles he has had through the years, who was Triller’s Chief Boxing Officer was stepping down from his role. While this was reported by several Boxing media outlets outside of this one including Boxing Scene and NY Fights as citing the reason for Khan’s departure from Triller as wanting to focus on non-Boxing related projects, the timing of it does seem at minimum to be curious if not outright coincidence.

Perhaps not surprisingly, news has also circulated through various outlets including Fight Sports that the Holyfield-Belfort pay-per-view attraction did not perform well in terms of pay-per-view buys. While this observer does not have a solid figure to share with the reader, the reported figure could be anywhere from 100,000 to 150,000 total buys. It should be noted that this event like all Boxing events that are staged on the pay-per-view medium in the year 2021 comes at a time where the sport is in a period of transition from the pay-per-view/ pay-per-event model to the digital subscription based model where events are offered as part of a full slate of content through networks like ESPN+ and DAZN, this in addition to price points that unfortunately have become a standard of between $70-$80 in the United States for most pay-per-view Boxing cards has resulted in a consistent decline in overall buys for those events that are not offered as part of a subscription model.

Although Triller offers it’s pay-per-view Boxing cards at a $50 price point, the price is likely too much for some Boxing fans in addition to what has thus far been a general lack of competitive bouts offered by the promotional banner. In fairness, Triller’s involvement in the sport has only been under one year in existence and it does take time to build the type of quality Boxing cards that will draw eyes to your events. This is perhaps one reason why the promoter has relied on a mix of former fighters competing in either exhibitions or bouts that could be deemed semi-professional, celebrity bouts, and mixing musical performances into each card it has offered since it’s inception. The package however, does not appear to be resonating with Boxing fans who frankly may expect more competitive Boxing for the price they are asked to pay than what has been offered by Triller thus far.

It is also worth noting that Triller does offer subscription-based options for those that do not want to pay on a per-event basis TrillerPass, which is offered either as a $29.99 monthly subscription or $299 yearly subscription and Trillerverz, which is the recently launched monthly Boxing series from the promoter for $2.99 monthly or $29.99 per year. Both subscription options are offered through Triller’s website as well as their recently acquired FITE TV digital combat sports network and pay-per-view platform.  While this is solely the view of yours truly, I believe that if Triller wants to get more traction they should first focus on putting on competitive bouts, but also to focus on one subscription option that is for lack of a better term an all-in-one offering, but it needs to be reasonably priced in order to succeed and they need to be able to stage cards regularly.  Of course, the latter is easier said than done in present day due to the ongoing global COVID-19 epidemic, which has caused problems for many promoters through the entire sport and some of the struggles Triller has faced should not be viewed as exclusive to them under the circumstances of the ongoing crisis.

The truth unfortunately for Triller and other promoters that continue to insist on the overpriced and outdated pay-per-view model is that consumers will tend to want more for what they are paying and unfortunately for Triller, staging cards such as Holyfield-Belfort with the hope that it will attract curiosity is not a successful strategy, especially when it is painfully obvious to all that one fighter should have never been allowed to compete. Even though being a promoter in the sport of Boxing is far from an easy task, sometimes common sense is a better approach instead of staging an event that shows everything that is wrong with the sport from inept state athletic commission regulation, to what frankly is an unprofessional presentation in terms of commentary including the use of explicit language from those on the broadcast team, to non-competitive almost novelty bouts to finally the harsh reality that fighters sometimes are forced back into the ring long after their competitive primes if for nothing else, financial reasons, despite the serious risk to their health.

In the days following this event, and quite frankly since the Holyfield-Belfort fight was stopped. I began thinking of one fight in Boxing’s past that could describe what I was feeling in terms of the embarrassment for the sport I love and disgust over what I saw. I thought of the November 1982 WBC World Heavyweight championship bout between Larry Holmes and Randall “Tex” Cobb. Holmes, who was in the midst of a dominant reign as Heavyweight world champion was simply too skilled and overmatched the always “Game” brawler Cobb over fifteen one-sided rounds to retain his crown via unanimous decision. Although this fight was slightly before my time, as a Boxing historian, I have seen the fight more than once via tape and the technology that is available to all of us today. One thing about the utter mismatch that stood out to me was the legendary Howard Cosell, who broadcast this fight as well as many others for many years for ABC Sports here in the United States. Cosell at times rubbed some the wrong way due to his frankness, perceived arrogance, and among other things his vocabulary.

Cosell was however, a man of principle and if one takes the time to go back and listen to his broadcast of that fight, as it went on and as Cobb continued to take an increasingly horrible beating, Cosell became increasingly disgusted so much to the point that when the fight was over, he announced quote “There will be no interviews, not for this fight.” Cosell would never broadcast a professional bout again for the remainder of his career, despite still broadcasting the amateur side of Boxing from time to time.

 

Quite frankly, I felt and still feel as disgusted as Cosell was that night in 1982 after watching the Holyfield-Belfort bout. My disgust, however, will not result in me stepping away from covering Boxing because in one sense where I disagree with Cosell, who I am proud to cite as one of my many influences is you cannot really effect change in a sport if you step away. While I will always have the utmost respect for Cosell, his integrity, his willingness to stand up for what he believed in regardless of whether it was popular or not, including, but not limited to his frequent calls for Boxing reform in the remaining years of his life before he passed away in 1995, I will continue to bang the drum as loud as I can and much like Cosell, bring to public attention that of which I feel does not benefit the sport of Boxing, the fans that support it, and most importantly, the fighters that risk their lives every time they enter the ring to compete. While it remains to be seen what the future will hold for Triller as a promotional entity in the sport, I hope they are able to adapt and use this experience as a learning one that will help them in the long-term.

 

For The Good of Boxing, Something Needs To Change.

 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

 

UPDATE: As this column was being prepared for release, it was reported that the Florida State Athletic Commission ruled on Thursday, September 16, 2021, that it has medically suspended Evander Holyfield for a period of 30-days. If further action from the commission surrounding this fight is taken, we will keep readers updated on any developments as they become available.

 

 

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