Paul-Tyson: A Reality Check?

The event between social media influencer turned aspiring boxer Jake Paul and International Boxing Hall of Famer and two-time World Heavyweight champion Mike Tyson was one that stirred much opinion, criticism, and worry for Tyson’s health given that he would be getting back into the ring at fifty-eight years of age, more than twenty years removed from his last competitive fight in 2005 and four years removed from a charity exhibition, which had been the only time he had entered a Boxing ring since retirement. It was also a circumstance that as most events featuring those labeled as “Influencers” going against an athlete or a celebrity in a Boxing ring drew significant interest, particularly among those who are casual sports observers. For better or worse, that was the target demographic of the promotion and not those for whom Boxing is a regular passion.

Part of the draw was of course the appeal of Mike Tyson, a fighter whom in his prime was the primary drawing card of his time in the sport where no matter who he fought, drew significant interest. The interest, which was rooted in the fact that he would often destroy his opponents with a mix of hand speed and punching power that had not been seen before. It was and is this appeal where even many years removed from that athletic prime, there are those who still have the images implanted in their minds of the great fighter Tyson was as well as what he meant to the sport. Perhaps this is the reason why so many people were willing to overlook the logical aspects of what was going to take place when Tyson climbed back into the ring against Paul. Logical aspects such as advanced age and the things that naturally occur in all of us as we get older. In the context of combat sports athletes, this means eroded skills and slowed reflexes as well as more often than not, not being able to have as much flexibility or reaction time as they had in their younger days.

In Tyson’s case, his appeal was and will likely remain strong simply because of what he meant to the sport and the fact that thanks to the advent of streaming, access to his fights where he was in his prime and scoring devastating knockouts is more accessible than ever, which makes it easier for those who were not around during that time to see what he was all about. As one who grew up recording fights and still watches as much Boxing from decades prior to when I came along, and as someone who was around during Tyson’s prime and one who got to cover him from the mid-1990s when I began my career covering combat sports, through his retirement, I concede that technology has certainly evolved and access to fight films both from many years gone by as well as current bouts, has come a long way since the days when I recorded all I could on VHS tapes. Having said that, what access to those classic bouts can do for those who are casual fans is at times provide a false sense of belief that what they might be watching, which can be decades old, would be similar to what they would see if a fighter from that time got back into the ring in the present day, neglecting the passage of time and what happens to someone as they age.

Fighters too often fall into this belief as there is always the mentality among fighters that even years after retirement, they always have one more fight in them. While there will always be debates among Boxing lifers such as this observer as to what might have happened if a great fighter from one era faced a fighter from a more recent time where both were in their prime form, the belief that fighters tend to have about always having one more in them regardless of those logical factors is something that worries yours truly.

In this case, there was evidence that had me voicing concern as many others had for Tyson’s health. As some will recall in previewing this event, I brought up a similar circumstance that occurred three years ago when former Tyson opponent and fellow Hall of Famer Evander Holyfield got back into the ring at the same age Tyson did against Paul fifty-eight, to compete in a bout against former MMA world champion Vitor Belfort. Out of respect for the reader and the fact that discussing what occurred that night in September 2021 still stirs feelings of disgust for what was allowed to go occur that evening and keeping in mind that I already discussed it prior to this event, I will surmise it by saying though Holyfield visually looked to be in immaculate condition for someone approaching sixty years old prior to getting into the ring, the effects of age as well as the punishment he had suffered throughout his long career were impossible to ignore as Holyfield could not maintain his balance or protect himself in what ended up being one of the many black eyes in the Boxing history.

In the lead-up to this fight, frankly, I had feelings similar to those I had in the days before Holyfield-Belfort. A sincere concern and worry for Tyson’s well-being given his age, despite the visual evidence that he looked to be in great condition for a former fighter at an advanced age. Unlike the circumstances with Holyfield, however, I did not get any information prior to this event that suggested to me that Tyson would be compromised as Holyfield was. Nevertheless, as one who has seen an endless number of fighters getting back into the ring at advanced ages with that belief of having at least one more fight in them, often leading to scenes that are difficult to watch, my concern remained. It is, however, important to keep in mind that Tyson was getting into a ring with someone, who was thirty-one years younger, but one who does not have the level of experience of a seasoned boxer, having built his career on facing MMA fighters, with little to no Boxing experience, a former NBA basketball player, fellow influencers, and having a 2-1, with 2 Knockouts record against those with strictly Boxing backgrounds. Based on this, there was at least some question as to what might happen if Tyson were able to land punches effectively, despite the age difference and facing someone who is a good athlete though limited in terms of Boxing experience.

Although the encounter, which took place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX on November 15th had slight modifications in the rules including two minute rounds and the use of sixteen ounce gloves and not the standard ten ounce gloves, which are used in standard Heavyweight fights, which seemed to at least on the surface benefit Tyson, it did not take long for reality to set in. Tyson appeared to show some flashes of what he once was early, applying pressure on Paul and landing a few hooks to the head. The obvious effects of advanced age appeared almost simultaneously as Tyson quickly found it difficult to use his legs to execute his lateral movement and had some trouble using his head movement to evade Paul’s longer reach and get on the inside where he could do damage. Paul was also able to clip Tyson with a few good punches throughout the scheduled eight round bout that seemed to stagger his legs. 

As the bout progressed, Tyson showed less and less movement, less and less ability to land punches, and the only question I had in my mind was whether he would be allowed to finish the contest. Although Jake Paul has been the subject of much criticism including from this observer for seemingly thinking that one can build a legitimate Boxing career and get into position to fight for world championships by facing the types of opposition he has, none of which has come against a serious contender in any division, he did show some class and humility in this encounter by clearly not pressing the issue where he likely would have stopped Tyson and allowing the legend to go the distance in what was an uneventful contest, which though classified as an official fight, which Paul won by margins of eight rounds to zero on one scorecard and seven rounds to one on the other two, should have been designated as an exhibition.

Despite the criticisms of many, including yours truly of Paul for the aforementioned reasons, there is no disputing he has established himself as one of the sport’s rising promoters and he has done good for the sport in giving a platform for young fighters through his Most Valuable Promotions promotional company as well as being a strong advocate for Women’s Boxing, which I do respect. It was his promotional savvy that likely inspired digital streaming subscription entertainment network Netflix to get involved in the sport as the Tyson-Paul event was the first Boxing event ever to be shown by the network. While that also led to significant issues throughout the live broadcast due to the network having issues with their servers, which caused significant outages and buffering issues throughout the world for many trying to access the event, the accomplishment of bringing Boxing to such a massive platform is something that cannot be denied even though it should prepare the network for future live programming in wanting to ensure that their subscribers have as seamless an experience streaming live content as possible. Although by all accounts the event also succeeded in terms of a live gate attraction in reportedly drawing 70,000 spectators to AT&T Stadium, something that also deserves credit where it is due, the question that needs to be asked coming out of this event is should Paul-Tyson be a reality check?

A reality check in the sense that even though it clearly drew a lot of interest, it was still a scenario where an aspiring boxer shared the ring with someone who was many years removed from active competition and one who probably should not have been in the ring at fifty-eight years old. Though such events for better or worse do draw interest, for one who insists he wants to be taken seriously as a professional boxer, who says he wants to be a world champion as Paul does, taking part in events like this does not help his argument. As far as the interest this particular event drew, while nothing can be taken away from it in terms of a successful promotion, the reality is, events like this will only succeed so far as it becomes more and more clear that it is not a competitive situation and while the aim of such events is strictly to draw the interest of the casual observer, such interest will only last so long where it will succeed and if Paul as well as others who have come into Boxing from outside realms, who all want to be taken seriously, do not start facing serious boxers, who are working towards fighting for a world championship, the “Curiosity” factor, which seems to be the aim to draw casual observers, will not be there. 

For now, this observer will congratulate Paul on another successful promotion. More importantly, yours truly is thankful that Mike Tyson did not get seriously hurt and that those of us who cover the sport are not talking about a tragedy or near tragedy occurring as was the case with Holyfield-Belfort. However, I believe that state athletic commissions need to implement common sense where such bouts are not green-lit and allowed to go on. Not only due to the significant age differences, but more importantly due to the obvious dangers that exist as well as what was, and will likely continue to be a significant difference in competition. At some point, those who regulate and sanction the sport need to step up to ensure the integrity of the sport is a priority. 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

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Serrano And Paul Set To Share Stage

The month of March in the sport of Boxing will begin with a unique doubleheader that will take place at the Jose Miguel Agrelot Coliseum in San Juan, Puerto Rico on Saturday, March 2nd, which can be seen globally on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN. What makes it unique? It is a rare opportunity to see a superstar fighter and that fighter’s promoter competing on the same card, much less in the event’s two headline attractions.

In the main event of the evening Unified Women5IBF/WBA/WBO/IBO Featherweight world champion Amanda Serrano will defend her crown against IBF number one contender Niina Meinke. In October of last year, Serrano, the then undisputed champion of the division, took part in a groundbreaking moment for the sport in scoring a unanimous decision over Danila Ramos in Orlando, FL. The historical significance of the occasion was that the world championship bout was the first one in Boxing history where female fighters fought for a distance of twelve, three minute rounds. The same world championship distance as men's world title bouts.

As groundbreaking and overdue as that moment was for the sport in taking a major step forward towards equality, with the champion declaring that she would prefer to continue competing at the twelve three minute round distance for the remainder of her career shortly after defeating Ramos, it was not long after that fight where Serrano would lose her status as an undisputed world champion. This was due to the World Boxing Council (WBC) refusing to sanction women's world title bouts at the same distance and round length as men's bouts. In response, Serrano relinquished the WBC World Featherweight championship.

It goes without saying that Boxing is a sport where world championships are relinquished and stripped for a variety of reasons, which most of the time has to do with the politics of the sport. While this observer can go on and on, on that subject, Serrano's decision to willingly lose her undisputed champion status should be applauded. Applauded because it not only showed her intentions to help bring about equality in the sport for women was legitimate, but her conviction in wanting to see world title fights in Women's Boxing moved to the same standard as their male counterparts was so strong that when a prominent sanctioning organization, which was the first to sanction world title bouts for female fighters, refused to also take that step towards equality, Serrano put principle over whatever potential financial gain she might acquire as being one of the few undisputed champions in the entire sport, male or female.

While one can hope that the WBC will eventually join in the movement of progress for female fighters in the sport, Serrano, still the number one fighter in Featherweight division regardless of the label of undisputed being involved, will move forward with her career. The first step in that comes in her next title defense against the International

Boxing Federation's (IBF) number one contender Nina Meinke.

Meinke, a veteran of twenty-one professional fights, will come into this fight on a six fight winning streak and has won eighteen of her twenty-one professional bouts. She is also a former world title challenger having previously come up short in a challenge of then IBF Featherweight world champion Sarah Mahfoud in April 2022.

One crucial element to keep in mind is Amanda Serrano has won world titles in eight different weight divisions. While that may be reflective of Women’s Boxing still being very much in the process of growing, in that it is not uncommon for fighters to move up or down the weight scale depending on what opportunities may be available to them to fight for a world championship, often on a fight by fight basis, what Serrano has also accumulated over her forty-nine bout professional career is a level of experience that few fighters can compare to simply because the sport for women is still growing. There is no doubt in this observer’s mind that Serrano will use every bit of that experience including the fact that she now has the added attribute of having gone twelve, three minute rounds before to her advantage. 

The question here will largely fall on Meinke's shoulders in whether or not she will be able to compete against Serrano and more specifically, how she will respond to fighting under three minute rounds and the possibility of going twelve rounds. It is something that hopefully as more Women's world title bouts are held under the twelve, three minute round format will become less of an issue, but for the foreseeable future, fighters who have been accustomed to Boxing as far as ten rounds, where the length of those rounds are two minutes in duration, it will be a question of if they will be able to adjust to the format that is standard for their male counterparts. Meinke only has three knockouts in her eighteen career wins. This suggests that that fight plan for her will be to try and out point the champion over the course of the twelve round bout. 

While that may seem like an advantage for a fighter that is used to not only going the distance, but also having to implement an approach to score points to win decisions, Serrano is also a highly skilled boxer who has punching power in both hands. It will be up to Meinke to show what she will be able to do in this fight and more specifically, if she will be able to do it fighting under a longer format both in terms of round length and the scheduled distance that might determine how successful she is in this second opportunity to capture a world championship.

One fighter who will share the stage with Serrano and will look to showcase his evolving skills shortly before the Featherweight champion of the world takes to the ring for the main event, is social media influencer turned Cruiserweight boxer Jake Paul. Longtime readers know the stance of this observer with regard to the influx of celebrity that has made it’s way into the Boxing ring over the last several years, which has been given a slightly different name of “Influencer Boxing.” While those who enter the sport from an outside background should not be judged simply off of that background, I have also been critical when appropriate when it comes to those would be fighters seeming to have the mentality that they can face either other influencers and combat athletes from different disciplines/sports other than Boxing and expect to be taken seriously as would be contenders who may eventually challenge for a world championship, much less pushed and marketed as pay-per-view stars in an era where consumers continue to reject such a model. Paul has been one fighter that I have criticized for these reasons.

It should be noted however, that following his victory over MMA veteran Nate Diaz last summer, Paul opted to take a more conventional route for any boxer looking to work his way up in the sport of Boxing. Choosing to box his next fight in a more intimate setting of the Caribe Royale Resort ballroom in Orlando, FL on December 15th when he faced Cruiserweight boxer Andre August. While this was only the second time in Paul’s career where he was not on a pay-per-view as an attraction or the main event, it signaled a step forward towards proving himself to be a serious boxer by facing someone with a Boxing background, but also someone who did not have much known about him prior to the fight. Essentially, the type of opponents any would-be prospect will face as their careers and skillset develops. Paul simply took care of business on that December evening dropping August for the count with a right uppercut that ended matters at 2:32 of the first round.

Although there is not much one can say about a one punch knockout, something that Paul has done against MMA fighters, with little or no Boxing experience and other celebrities before in his career, The fact that he was able to do it against someone who was a boxer, and more specifically, how he set up the knockout by going to the body and waiting for the opening to land the knockout blow, did show progress. Now Paul looks to follow that victory by facing another boxer in the form of nineteen fight veteran Ryan Bourland, which on the surface represents a step up for Paul in terms of the experience that his opponent has. Bourland, a native of Dickinson, ND will enter into this encounter with a record of 17-2, with 6 Knockouts. He has won his last three bouts including a knockout win over a fighter named Santario Martin in his last bout. What some may see as potential red flags however, is that last bout for him took place in September 2022 and much like August, who was a Texas State Light-Heavyweight champion in his career prior to facing Paul, not much is known about Bourland and  obtaining footage for the purposes of research for this observer, a noted Boxing historian and one who studies fight films daily did prove to not be successful. An interesting note that is coincidental is both August and Bourland fought Santario Martin in their careers, and each does have a victory over him. Bourland does have a knockout victory over him however, compared to August’s decision victory over him in November 2019.

While this is coincidental and some may at minimum say that Paul’s handlers are scouting opponents from similar circles, it is important to keep in mind that there are countless fighters throughout the entire sport that toil on the local and regional levels of Boxing that take fights whenever they are offered, are willing to travel anywhere for those opportunities on often short notice, and are the true workman of the sport because of their willingness to get in and mix it up with anyone whenever an opportunity becomes available and/or is offered. In this case, the 175lb. Light-Heavyweight  and 190lb. Cruiserweight divisions are in close proximity to each other and it is not unusual to see fighters on those local/regional levels bounce up and down between divisions depending on what opportunity might be available. For those fighters who have such a career on that level as they look for an opportunity to move up towards an opportunity that might establish them as a contender, it is not unusual for fighters to have some common opposition on that path.

The question here is what Ryan Bourland will bring with him in terms of skillset into this fight. Paul has shown numerous times that he has a primary weapon, his right hand and per his being a celebrity, all of his fights have been televised in some form. While this may not seem like much to the reader, what it does provide is at least an opportunity for Bourland to study his opponent, whereas Paul may not have had that same opportunity. Bourland does have six knockouts in his seventeen wins, but he does not seem to be a fighter with punching power. Of his two losses, Bourland does have a first round knockout loss at the hands of a fighter named Israel Duffus in a fight that took place nearly nine years ago in July 2015 in Hollywood, CA. 

Much as was the case for his last fight, the element of the unknown has followed Jake Paul into this fight in terms of his opposition. These are the types of fights that are crucial for a fighter’s development if they do want to work their way up towards possible contention and hope to eventually challenge for a world championship. With the rarest of exceptions, the vast majority of fighters are not afforded the opportunity to take short cuts and try to get to that point faster and for most boxers, this is the path that they need to take as well as compete frequently not only to obtain the necessary experience against different types of opposition with varying styles, but also to try and get more opportunities that might be higher up on the ladder of contention. At least for what will be his last two fights by the time he faces Bourland, Paul seems to have realized this and it will be interesting to see how he continues to develop against fighters with a Boxing background, who likely view Paul due to his celebrity status as an opportunity to make a name for themselves. With one win and one loss coming against fighters with a Boxing background, it’s now time to see what this next step in Paul’s development as a boxer will look like.

An evening of Boxing featuring two steps toward progress. One towards equality in Boxing and the other perhaps a further step in a fighter’s developing career. It should be an entertaining night of Boxing. 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

Serrano vs. Meinke / Paul vs. Bourland takes place on Saturday, March 2nd at the Jose Miguel Agrelot Coliseum in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The card can be seen globally on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN beginning with preliminary bouts at 4:30PM ET/1:30PM PT. This will be followed by the main card, which will begin at 7PM ET/4PM PT. 

(*U.S. Times Only.*]

(*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.

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MFXDAZN X Series 0013 Set For March 23RD In Nashville

Press Release: February 16, 2024 By DAZN-  The crossover boxing scene will be shaken up when MF & DAZN: X Series 13 lands in Nashville, on March 23, exclusively live on DAZN.

Credit: DAZN 

Fresh from his highlight reel knockout win at X Series 12, Fox The G is thrown in at the deep end in his first headline contest, being matched against TWO opponents.

The X Series has always been pioneering and next month’s Outnumbered Match is the latest in a growing list of ground-breaking contests delivered, live on DAZN.

Fox The G will face Most Evil Tag Team, comprised of Most Wanted and Evil Hero, who are able to tag in and out of the ring, but Fox will be in there on his own, fighting against the odds.

And confirmed for the undercard at Worldwide Stages, are the opening two bouts in the MFB Lightweight interim title tournament.

Joey Knight takes on Baby Hulk, in quarter final No1, before LilCraCra tackles Yuddy Gang in quarter final No2.

The X Series is pitting eight of the leading lightweights in the crossover boxing scene in a tournament to crown an interim champion while MFB title holder Deen The Great recovers from injury.

Yet more mouth-watering contests will be announced in due course, that will make X Series 13 the most stacked US card seen so far.

Fox The G said: “On March 23 in Nashville, I’ll be outnumbered, my back will be against the wall and the odds are stacked against me, but I love it!

“People were writing me off before X Series 12 in Leeds, saying I had no chance, but look how I proved them all wrong – and I’ll do it again next month.

“Two opponents, three, four….it doesn’t matter because I’m coming out swinging and anyone standing in my way is getting knocked out.”

Mams Taylor, Co-President of Misfits Boxing, said: “X Series 13 is going to be a Stateside spectacular!

“Fox The G is red-hot right now after his brutal KO at X Series 12 and he wants all the smoke – so we’re putting him in against two opponents for our first ever Outnumbered Match.

“And I am so excited to kick-off the MFB Lightweight tournament with two quarter-final humdingers, as we begin our search for an interim champ.

“But watch this space because we still have a number of contests to announce that the Misfits fans will absolutely love!”

Kalle Sauerland, Co-President of Misfits Boxing, said: “Misfits Boxing is all about pushing the boundaries and we’ve done it again.

“We’ve had Mystery Opponents, Tag Team matches, Survivor Tag and now, an Outnumbered Match.  

“It’s brilliant, it’s chaotic and it’s never been done before, so it makes X Series 13 in Nashville on March 23, absolutely must-see television.”

“With this ground-breaking main event X Series continues to be on its own when it comes to creativity and innovation,” said Alfie Sharman, VP, DAZN. 

“X Series is all about entertainment-and 18 months from inception it has delivered this fight on fight in spades. March 23 will be another unmissable event. Tune in live and exclusive, only on DAZN.”

 

 

Material Courtesy 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, 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. 

Paul-August Preview

The career of aspiring Cruiserweight boxer and social media celebrity Jake Paul is set for one more chapter to close out 2023 as he will return to the ring on Friday, December 15th at the Caribe Royale Resort and Casino in Orlando, FL. Paul’s return to action, which will headline a card promoted by his own Most Valuable Promotions promotional company and be broadcast worldwide on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN will be his ninth fight as a professional boxer, but one might argue, could represent a legitimate step forward in that career. Paul’s previous outings in the Boxing ring have come against either fellow influencers/celebrities, one former NBA All-Star, retired MMA fighters with little or no Boxing experience, and one boxer in Tommy Fury, who was more known as the brother of current WBC Heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury, and who was also known as a reality TV star in the United Kingdom. 

Despite that, Fury, who was unbeaten as a Cruiserweight boxer was able to hand Paul his first defeat as a pro boxer in defeating him via eight round split decision when they met in February of this year in Saudi Arabia. In his last fight in August of this year, Paul returned to what had been for better or worse, a successful formula when he faced MMA star Nate Diaz and scored a lopsided ten round unanimous decision over him in a fight where he was able to knock Diaz down and show evolving Boxing skills in the process. Beyond restoring his confidence after suffering the setback against Fury, this observer stated in his post-fight coverage of Paul’s victory over Diaz that there would come a point where those that have entered Boxing from a different background whether they be from YouTube or other forms of being an influencer, will have to realize that the standards of the sport will need to be respected. Meaning, that if those who have entered the sport from outside realms are truly serious about wanting to pursue a legitimate Boxing career inside the ring and challenging for world championships, as Paul has stated several times is one of his goals, they would need to fight those with a Boxing background and get the experience needed to get into a position to challenge for a world championship, which is no different than any other boxer who turns professional after competing in the amateurs and those who have turned professional with no previous amateur experience. 

Paul’s opponent on December 15th will come in the form of professional boxer Andre August. While this is a departure from Paul’s previous opponents in that August is not particularly known, even in Boxing circles up to this point, he is a fighter based out of Houston, TX and sports a record of 10-1,1, with 5 Knockouts in twelve professional fights. While August has not fought a notable opponent in those twelve bouts, he has won a Texas State championship in the Light-Heavyweight division in his young career, which began in May of 2013. Although a state championship in professional Boxing may not be seen as significant to some given the numerous regional and world championships and sanctioning organizations, which populate the sport, in actuality fighters that initially start out in professional Boxing do occasionally fight for a state title as they look to progress in their careers. In terms of what August brings to the table, that is the unknown that surrounds this fight as there is not much footage that could be found, by yours truly, who is a noted historian and one who has spent countless hours studying fight films for virtually my entire life. 

Despite the appearance of a possible red flag in that someone as seasoned as this observer could not find any footage of August prior composing this column, what I can say is that he has won his last five bouts, with one of those wins coming by knockout. August’s lone defeat came in September 2018 when he was stopped by a fighter named Eric Abraham in two rounds in Houston, TX. Even though there is not much to go on regarding Andre August going in, one possible advantage he might have is simply the fact that he has taken a more conventional route in his Boxing career, whereas Paul’s due to both his celebrity as well as the unconventional route he has taken, has been featured prominently in Boxing’s spotlight, though there might be some who feel that could be both a good and bad thing for the sport depending on one’s perspective. The advantage for him could be that some might view his resume as one that is somewhat under the radar and there is at least a possibility that Paul may not know much about the fighter he is facing, but August does have the opportunity to study every one of Paul’s previous bouts, which could at least in theory give him an edge going into the fight.

While there is simply not much to go on in terms of analyzing this bout, the reality is these are the types of fights any fighter needs to compete in as they look to progress from prospect, to contender, to potential world title challenger down the line. Although this is only one fight, it would seem that Jake Paul would appear to be showing that he is indeed serious and no matter what might happen in this fight, it will be interesting to see if he continues on this path, because after all, there is only so much one can truly learn by facing several fighters with little or no Boxing experience and those who while having combat sports experience in other disciplines, most notably in the sport of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), were towards the end of their competitive careers when Paul fought them. Even though those fights did draw significant attention and may be seen as a young kid getting his feet wet in a sport, it was an approach that was flawed, which was to a degree exposed when he fought someone with more than sporadic Boxing experience. At least this fight appears to be an initial step forward.

What Andre August brings to the table in this fight and how Jake Paul will be able to deal with that is something that remains to be seen.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

Paul vs. August takes place on Friday, December 15th at the Caribe Royale Resort and Casino in Orlando, FL. The fight as well as its full undercard can be seen on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN beginning at 6PM ET/3PM PT with preliminary bouts, which will be followed by the main card that will begin at 7:30PM ET/4:30PM PT. 

(*U.S. Times Only*)

(*Card and Start times 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. 

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DAZN ANNOUNCE STAR-STUDDED TALENT LINE-UP FOR EXCLUSIVE X SERIES 010 LIVE SHOWS

Press Release October 10, 2023 By DAZN -  The biggest night in crossover boxing history lands in Manchester on Saturday, October 14 and features KSI vs Tommy Fury and Logan Paul vs Dillon Danis

 

Credit: DAZN 

DAZN to host Countdown Show followed by the main card live around the world, only on DAZN PPV

 

The biggest night ever seen in crossover boxing will have a heavyweight talent team to match, with stars from the world of sport, music and television all forming a part of DAZN’s exclusive worldwide coverage.

 

A sold-out AO Arena in Manchester plays host to a historic night of action as KSI clashes with Tommy Fury and Logan Paul goes into battle against Dillon Danis, exclusively live on DAZN PPV.

 

And DAZN’s coverage will deliver a knockout punch from the first bell until the last with several big-names involved, including Ariel Helwani, Chris Eubank Junior and Bugzy Malone, all taking to the mic, across two not-to-be-missed shows.

 

Big Zuu will be your larger-than-life host for the DAZN Boxing Countdown Show, which will be broadcast live on DAZN and Youtube in the hours leading up to the unmissable boxing double-header.

 

Zuu will be joined by co-host and reporter Roman Kemp, who will be bringing viewers a host of interviews with celebrities in attendance at this historic evening of crossover boxing action.

 

Zuhair Hassan, better known as Big Zuu, is an award-winning British chef, television personality and musician. A born-and-bred Londoner, Zuu began his career as a grime MC and BBC radio host, and has since become a regular face of the MF&DAZN X Series.

 

Roman Kemp, meanwhile, is one of the UK’s most promising broadcasters, hosting the Capital radio breakfast show, presenting the One Show and having hosted countless star-studded events including the TV Baftas and BRIT Award Red Carpet.

 

Zuu and Roman will be joined by no less than three studio guests on this unmissable Countdown Show.

 

The first is British rap icon, actor and entrepreneur Bugzy Malone, an avid boxer and fan of the sport since childhood. X Series fans will vividly remember Bugzy’s jaw-dropping ring walk with KSI at 007 in May, when ‘The Nightmare’ fought Joe Fournier in front of a packed Wembley Arena.

 

Joining Bugzy is Youtube star and crossover boxer Deji Olatunji who will share with fans a unique insight into how his brother, KSI, has been training for the biggest fight of his career to date.

 

Mike Majlak - best-selling author, YouTube star and co-host of the Impaulsive podcast with Logan Paul – will also make the journey to Manchester, taking viewers backstage inside the locker rooms of the biggest stars set to step foot in the ring on the night.

 

Completing the talent team for DAZN’s biggest Countdown show to date is Nada, host and presenter on Apple Music, and sideline reporter at the recent Sideman charity football match. Nada will be capturing all the red carpet arrivals on the night, and bringing viewers exclusive interviews from behind the scenes.

 

Kicking off at 7pm, the main DAZN PPV card will feature DAZN anchor and X Series fan favourite, Ade Oladipo taking the reins alongside two well-known names, both of whom have enjoyed recent victories inside the ring. 

 

Middleweight boxing star Chris Eubank Junior looks to provide expert analysis on the packed fight card, joining the DAZN broadcast fresh from gaining revenge over Liam Smith in their mammoth Manchester clash. Sparring partner to KSI and recent X Series headliner Idris Virgo will complete the pundit duo on the night, analyzing all the action as this huge night unfolds.

 

Meanwhile, jetting in from the United States will be combat sports legend Ariel Helwani, the star and host of the wildly popular MMA Show. Helwani will be DAZN’s in-ring interviewer, bringing fans those iconic first interviews with fighters, just moments after their bouts end. Helwani will also join the commentary team for key fights during the card.

 

And leading that commentary team will be Todd Grisham, the voice of the X Series, who will once again guide viewers on DAZN PPV through all the action. He will be joined on co-comms by Jonathan “The Coach” Coachman, as the pair reunite to form one of the most respected commentary teams in combat sports entertainment.

 

Rounding out the DAZN PPV on-air talent team is Olivia Buzaglo, an exciting young sports news presenter and football host, who has recently made a statement in the world of combat sports, joining DAZN’s boxing and MMA on-air broadcast teams.

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, Local start times in your area, and to subscribe and order this pay-per-view card please visit: www.DAZN.com.

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

Bellew Says Danis ‘Wouldn’t Make It To The Ring’ If He Insulted His Wife In The Same Way He Is Attacking Agdal

Press Release September 9, 2023 By Liam Solomon/ Bettingsites.co.uk - Logan Paul’s fiancé Nina Agdal is suing Dillon Danis and filing for a restraining order over the abusive trolling Danis is subjecting the Danish model to over social media. Bellew, who is no stranger to trash talk in the build up to a big fight, has condemned Danis for the below-the-belt content the MMA fighter is publishing on social media;

Tony Bellew: “He’s taken it way too far. I’m not going to lie, if someone insults my wife it’s not going to make it to the boxing ring. It would get dealt with literally immediately. It doesn’t matter how many security guards he has with him either, you can’t have someone insulting your wife or fiance. It’s a step too far. I don’t know what prompted him to do that, I have no idea.”

Material Courtesy of; Liam Solomon/ Bettingsites.co.uk Used with permission.

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

LOGAN PAUL TO FACE DILLON DANIS AT X SERIES SPECTACULAR IN MANCHESTER LIVE ON DAZN

Press Release August 9, 2023 By DAZN-

 

Paul vs Danis joins KSI vs Tommy Fury at the top of the bill

 

Tickets for historic X Series event go on General Sale on August 22 – Sign-up for ticket alerts here

Credit: DAZN 

 

Logan Paul and Dillon Danis will meet head-on as part of the double main event at an extra special X Series event in Manchester, live and exclusive on DAZN.

 

 

The AO Arena plays host to a colossal night of crossover boxing on Saturday, October 14 with confirmation of KSI’s monstrous clash with Tommy Fury creating a frenzy among fight fans.

 

But the headline-grabbing news that Paul is to fight Danis, on the other side of the double main event, will take the excitement levels to new heights.

 

Worldwide superstar Paul, who fought Floyd Mayweather in 2021, has made a huge impact in WWE but will return to the boxing ring this autumn to take on MMA bad boy Danis on The Prime Card in Manchester.

 

There is no love lost between the warring rivals and so the build-up promises to be tense, and the fight is guaranteed to deliver drama by the bucket load.

 

Logan Paul said: “Almost two years after fighting the greatest boxer of all time, I am so pumped to return to the boxing ring on October 14, for this monster Misfits show.

 

"Manchester, I hope you are ready for a night you will never forget, because The Prime Card is delivering in a big way, with KSI and I on either side of a double main event.

 

"The world has seen the energy, athleticism and showmanship I've brought to WWE, but this October I plan on reminding everyone that I can bring it to boxing too."

 

Dillon Danis said: "I couldn't care less what Logan Paul has done in the WWE, because when he is in the boxing ring, he is in a completely different world.  It's a world of pain, a world where he doesn't have control and it's my world, not his.  On October 14, in Manchester, Logan Paul is getting beat down.”

 

Mams Taylor, Co-President of Misfits Boxing said: “After we announced that KSI would be taking on the toughest challenge in crossover boxing, by facing Tommy Fury, I told you to watch this space – and now you know why!  The Prime Card is bringing you, the fans, a double main event the likes of which has never been seen before.  Having KSI against Fury, and Logan Paul against Dillon Danis, on the same card is truly incredible, it’s history in the making and I cannot wait until October 14.”

 

Kalle Sauerland, Co-President of Misfits Boxing said: “What was already the biggest night ever in crossover boxing, has just got even bigger with this announcement!  If KSI against Tommy Fury wasn’t huge enough, then the X Series is also bringing you a massive showdown between Logan Paul and Dillon Dannis – all on the same sensational evening in Manchester.  This is going to be a night that makes history.”

 

“We are delighted to have KSI and Logan Paul fighting again on the same card-four years on from their historic fight live on DAZN,” said Joe Markowski, CEO of DAZN North America. “What a night this promises be for cross-over boxing fans worldwide with four huge names in the space creating history. Do not miss this night of toe-to-toe action. Watch it live worldwide on DAZN and DAZN PPV."

 

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, 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.

Paul-Diaz Thoughts

The question this observer asked prior to social media celebrity turned aspiring boxer Jake Paul's fight against MMA veteran Nate Diaz was whether it was more of an event rather than a fight. A question rooted in curiosity in that Paul, who was coning off of his first loss as a boxer against Tommy Fury earlier this year, a fighter with a Boxing background, was returning to what had been a successful formula in facing someone with combat sports experience, but someone who had never boxed professionally. For better or worse, it has been a formula that has shown Paul to be a successful promoter in routinely drawing massive crowds whenever he fights.

This occasion would be no different as a massive crowd turned out to see Paul box Diaz at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, TX. What was particularly impressive about that accomplishment was that the arena was filled almost from the first bout of the evening, several hours before Paul and Diaz entered the ring. This differs from many normal Boxing events in that the crowd generally builds over time where the venue is at or close to capacity by the time the main event enters the ring. In that aspect even though many in the sport, including yours truly have been lukewarm and critical of the influx of social media influencers that have entered the sport, if one is objective, you should tip your hat to that as the ability to fill an arena for most, if not all of an event, which includes the undercard as well as the main event is not an easy thing to pull off.

As for the fight itself, I was not expecting much as it seemed to be a bout if nothing else, designed to allow Paul to get his confidence back after the experience of being out boxed by someone with a Boxing background in his previous fight. What we saw was Paul showcasing his continued development against a fighter in Diaz with what could best be described as an awkward Boxing style that did not see him throw many punches unless he were in close striking range to Paul as well as awkward movements throughout the scheduled ten round Cruiserweight bout.

One thing that stood out about Diaz' approach was he did let his hands go while in close and to his credit, did manage to pressure Paul and land effectively in spots as the fight progressed. Like many seasoned Mixed Martial Arts fighters who try their hand in the sport of Boxing, Diaz did not seem to turn many of his punches in. In that, many of the punches he landed were not turned in where the knuckle portion of the glove could land solidly. This gave an appearance as though many of his punches looked more like slaps simply because he could not get the leverage on the punches he was able to land, with the exception of when he was able to catch Paul with uppercuts on the inside.

In contrast, Paul displayed a calm tempo throughout this fight in using lateral movement, angles, and timing to throw and land short combinations many of which appeared to stun Diaz. The one thing that this observer pointed to as a potential red flag going into this fight, despite not being able to offer much analysis due to the obvious differences between the sports of Boxing and MMA and Diaz' lack of Boxing experience, was that he had shown decent hand speed and punching power in several of his MMA fights, but had also shown a tendency to be caught and knocked down by right hands.

Paul meanwhile had shown in almost all of his previous fights in the Boxing ring that his primary weapon was his right hand. A weapon that had ended several of his fights. In an example of his continued development as a fighter, Paul would drop Diaz hard in the fifth round of this fight, but it would be a short counter left hook to the temple that would drop Diaz. To Diaz credit, despite being hurt and for a time struggling to get up, he was able to beat the count, and showed the ability to recover. 

As the fight progressed, Diaz did step up his pressure and it seemed to create a competitive difference as compared to the first half of the fight. Whether it was because of his inexperience as a boxer or a strategic choice, Diaz' limited offense early in this fight proved to work against him as Paul was able to box his way to a significant lead and that in addition to the knockdown against him in the fifth round, ultimately led to Paul winning a convincing ten round unanimous decision, despite the rally that Diaz was able to build in rounds six thru ten.

While this victory for Jake Paul will not do much in terms of moving him towards being considered a contender, he did succeed in getting a confidence boost and to be fair, he is continuing to develop his skills as a fighter. Although influencers like Paul will continue to draw attention regardless of who they fight and continue to draw interest in the form of ticket sales and viewership, these type of "Curiosity Fights" as I call them, which in reality is one of the aspects of the sport of MMA that made it appealing in its early days in that the concept was largely based on fighters from different backgrounds/disciplines facing each other, when it comes to Boxing there is only so much one can learn in terms of developing one's skills when one chooses to box against opposition that do not have a background in the sport.

There will come a point where those that have entered Boxing from a different background whether they be from YouTube or other forms of being an influencer, will have to realize that the standards of the sport will need to be respected. This means if you are an influencer that truly wants to box and fight for world titles as Paul has said is one of his goals, you need to fight those with a Boxing background and get the experience needed to get into a position to fight for a world title, which is no different than any other boxer who turns professional after competing as an amateur or those who have no amateur background and go directly into the professional side of the sport.

Getting the opportunity to fight for a world championship is not something that can be achieved by facing those who may have combat sports experience, but do not have Boxing experience or by facing other influencers or YouTubers. At some point, the structure of the sport needs to be respected. For now, at least one influencer Jake Paul is showing improvement both in his skillet as well as showing he could go ten rounds for the first time as a boxer, whether he will silence his critics by facing boxers exclusively that will only continue to help him in his development remains to be seen. The jury however, is still out as to whether or not the influencer influx in the sport of Boxing is something that will serve to the sport's benefit in the long run and should be taken seriously, or if the "Influencer Boxing" concept is merely a new term for "Celebrity Boxing" and as such should be viewed as being for entertainment purposes only and not as a legitimate part of the sport of Boxing.

"And That's The Boxing Truth."

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Paul-Diaz: More Event Than Fight?

 

In February of this year, social media influencer turned boxer Jake Paul traveled to Saudi Arabia where the third time proved to be the charm in that Paul's on again, off again scheduled bout with undefeated Cruiserweight boxer Tommy Fury finally took place. Fury’s identification as s boxer is significant in that despite boasting an unbeaten record of 6-0, with 4 Knockouts going into the fight, Paul had built that record off facing folks who did not have a Boxing background or had very little Boxing training prior to those fights. In what was a close, but nondescript fight that did not have much in the way of highlights, Fury emerged victorious by scoring an eight round split decision over Paul and thus handed him his first loss as a professional. 

 

While this observer has been fair, but also critical of the craze that has emerged in the sport of Boxing in recent years of those with the label of “Influencer” entering the sport as I feel it does draw interest from potential demographics that otherwise would likely have little to no interest in the sport, but who’s involvement in it still to be determined as to whether or not it is truly to Boxing’s benefit or if the “Influencer” craze is simply a revamped version of “Celebrity Boxing” under a different label, Jake Paul has shown himself to be a good promoter, who in fairness is trying to bring attention to several issues within the sport that yours truly has written about regularly over the many years that I have covered Boxing and by extension combat sports including fighter pay, healthcare, and his support of Women’s Boxing in assisting in its long overdue growth is something that cannot be ignored. Despite losing to Tommy Fury, Paul did hold his own in what could be called his first legitimate fight as a boxer. 

 

Although Paul had boasted about fighting some of the top fighters in the sport and challenging for world titles, the takeaway from his loss to Fury was that although such boasts do serve a purpose in generating publicity, you can only go so far by facing people in a sport where they do not have a background in it. While Paul deserves credit for holding his own against Fury, his next fight will attempt to draw upon what had worked previously for him as he will face MMA veteran Nate Diaz in a scheduled ten round Cruiserweight bout at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, TX. A fight that will headline a DAZN Pay-Per-View card. Much like most of Paul's previous opponents, Diaz will be making his professional Boxing debut after spending much of his career in the sport of Mixed Martial Arts fighting in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) where he won the promotion’s Ultimate Fighter reality competition in its fifth season. 

Frankly, the story going into this fight is what Diaz, who is the third MMA fighter that Paul will be fighting in a Boxing ring, will bring to the table. Although Boxing is a martial art, a discipline, which is a part of the sport of MMA, there is only so much analysis one can provide because the fact is that Boxing and Mixed Martial Arts are two different sports and what you might see work well in terms of striking with hands in a fight fought under MMA rules in an MMA format might not work in a Boxing ring with Boxing gloves on, or at the very least, may not work as well because in MMA, fighters wear gloves that have only one ounce of padding and the gloves also allow the fighter’s hands to be open to engage in grappling. It is also worth noting that fighters in MMA also over the last twenty-five or so years as the sport has gotten more organized since its inception in promotions adopting a universal standard of rules, also fight barefoot, which depending on the situation can have a difference in a fighter’s ability to plant their feet and throw punches with both power and leverage. Diaz has shown decent hand speed and punching power in fights fought under MMA rules so, whether those skills will transition to the Boxing ring is something that remains to be seen. 

 

One thing that could be a red flag that some might point to is there have been times throughout his MMA career where Diaz has been susceptible to being caught and knocked down by right hands. The questions regarding the credibility and legitimacy of Jake Paul's Boxing career aside, there is one primary weapon he has used in most of his fights that have ended many of them, his right hand. It will be interesting to see if Paul will look to land what has proven to be his power punch in previous fights this time around. 

 

Although Paul is going back to what is familiar for him in facing a notable name from a different sport under conditions that do not favor that opponent, it has nevertheless succeeded in generating buzz. This is also perhaps a fight designed to restore his confidence after suffering his first loss. If Paul is looking to this fight to silence the critics questioning his validity as a boxer, this observer believes that a victory over Nate Diaz will likely not accomplish that. A victory, however, would likely restore his confidence. There will however, come a point where the realization that in order to fight the best fighters in the sport of Boxing and challenge for world championships, one needs to gain experience against fighters with a Boxing background and beat them to get that opportunity will come into the equation. One simply cannot gain such experience facing folks with little to no background in a sport where the fight will be occurring. While Paul may not get the experience he needs to continue developing if he indeed is serious about hoping to compete at or near the top level of the sport in this fight, he has succeeded in creating another event, which will draw interest from a wide range of demographics. It would be nice, however, if a competitive fight that some might not expect broke out as well. 

 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.” 

 

Paul vs. Diaz takes place on Saturday, August 5th at the American Airlines Center in Dallas TX. The fight as well as its full undercard can be seen on a pay-per-view basis globally on DAZN Pay-Per-View with preliminary bouts beginning at 6PM ET/3PM PT with the pay-per-view portion beginning at 8PM ET/5PM PT for $59.99. 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, to subscribe and order this pay-per-view card please visit: www.DAZN.com.  

(* U.S. Start times and pricing only. *) (*Check DAZN.com for time and pricing in your region of the world. *) 

 

(*Card and Start times Subject to Change. *) 

 

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

 

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