Is Doheny Catching "The Monster" At The Right Time?

There is little doubt that one of Boxing’s biggest stars in recent years has been the undefeated Naoya Inoue. A fighter known simply to Boxing fans as “The Monster." Inoue has been one of the most dominant fighters of this generation being one of the few fighters to become an undisputed world champion in multiple weight divisions. Currently sitting atop the 122lb. Jr. Featherweight division as its undisputed champion, Inoue has rarely faced an opponent that has been able to withstand his constant pressure and punching power, which has seen him score knockouts in twenty-four of his twenty-seven career wins registering a career knockout percentage of nearly 89%.

As intimidating as that statistic is, there have been a few occasions throughout Inoue’s career where he has been tested. Some may recall Inoue’s first encounter with future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire in November 2019 in the finals of the World Boxing Super Series® ️ Bantamweight tournament. In what was the fight of the year, Donaire was able to engage Inoue in a toe to toe battle that went the twelve round world championship distance. Inoue was not only able to continue to dominate all competition following his victory over Donaire to win that tournament, but was also able to score a brutal knockout of Donaire in their rematch in June 2022.

In his last fight, however, Inoue received a scare in his title defense against former two-division world champion Luis Nery in May of this year, when Nery dropped Inoue hard with a flush left hook to the jaw in the first round. While Inoue was able to recover and stop Nery in the sixth round, some might view what Nery was able to do as a possible sign that there might be a way to combat “The Monster." 

Inoue’s next title defense will come on Tuesday, September 3rd at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan against former IBF Jr. Featherweight world champion TJ Doheny. A fight that can be seen here in the United States on digital subscription sports streaming network ESPN+. Doheny, a veteran of thirty professional fights, held the IBF world championship in the Jr. Featherweight division from 2018-2019, will come into this fight rated number two in the world in the World Boxing Organization (WBO) and number four in the International Boxing Federation (IBF) Jr. Featherweight ratings. The challenger will also enter this bout riding a four fight winning streak. 

If one were to look for some additional positives for Doheny coming into this fight, he has twenty knockouts in his twenty-six career wins and has never been stopped in his four career losses. Additionally, Doheny is a world-class boxer and has shown he can go far into fights and go the distance. The question is whether he can do that against a fighter like Inoue.

How can the challenger do this? It is crucial that Doheny establish himself as an elusive target immediately. This is a task that is easier said than done both due to Inoue’s constant pressure as well as his punching power in both hands. Doheny must find a way to offset that pressure and do so for all twelve rounds. An additional challenge will be for him to pick his spots to try and land offense and get back to a safe distance before Inoue can land punches. One approach he could take might be to try and time the champion as he comes forward and take in the role of a counter puncher in looking to counter what Inoue throws. This is how Luis Nery was able to catch Inoue with that left hook in waiting for the champion to drop his hand, which provided a brief opening that he was able to take advantage of. Simply put, Doheny must be tactical and out-think the champion if he wants to become a two-time world champion in this fight.

Although this likely has an appearance of simply the next title defense in what will be a Hall of Fame career for Inoue, it is important to keep in mind that even though he did stop Luis Nery in his last fight and showed that he can deal with adversity, for a fighter with a moniker as “The Monster," it was the first time that Inoue also showed that like every other fighter, he is human. The question that he will have to answer in this bout is whether the knockdown he suffered against Nery was a case of a tactical mistake, which on that night he was able to quickly correct and go on to another victory, or if that brief moment was perhaps a sign that an aura that often follows fighters like Inoue, who are known as " Knockout Artists” might be beginning to fade. If it is the latter, TJ Doheny could be in a scenario where he might be in the right place at the right time to catch Inoue if the champion is starting to slip from his best performances.

"And That's The Boxing Truth.”

Inoue vs. Doheny takes place on Tuesday, September 3rd at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan. The fight can be seen in the United States on digital subscription sports streaming network ESPN+ beginning at 5:45AM ET/2:45AM PT.

ESPN+ is available through the ESPN app on mobile, tablet, and connected streaming devices/Smart TVs. For more information on ESPN+ including schedules, list of compatible streaming devices, platforms, Smart TVs, and to subscribe please visit: www.ESPNPlus.com. 

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

(* U.S. Times Only/Check your local listings Internationally.*)

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JASON MOLONEY VS NONITO DONAIRE COMING SOON

 

Press Release: December 16, 2022 – By Team Moloney – In light of the recent WBC convention, it appears that two of boxing's utmost gentleman may clash in early 2023.

Credit: Mikey Williams/Top Rank Boxing

 

 

 

Jason Moloney has been a mainstay on ESPN, after giving a balls to the wall performance against Naoya Inoue, which, if anything, increased his value in the 118 pound division; the all action Aussie had lined up four consecutive wins, inserting himself at the top of the WBC rankings.

 

 

 

Moloney, who has been managed by long term Oceania boxing guiding light Tony Tolj, now sits in a healthy position at the top of the WBC rankings.

 

 

 

Moloney opened up on his positioning with the WBC, “I’m very happy to be where I’m at in my career right now, and thank you to Tony (Tolj), Don (Majeski), Top Rank and of course the WBC for positioning me at the top of the rankings. I’m delighted to be in this position.

 

 

“2022 has been a good year, a year of improving and now I’m ready to finally achieve my goal of being a world champion, a following for the long list of great champions the WBC have had.”

 

 

 

Standing in the way of Moloney is the incomparable Filipino Flash, Nonito Donaire. A legend of the sport, Donaire is a future hall of famer, and despite two fights with the Monster, Naoya Inoue, Donaire still has aspirations to become world champion.

 

 

 

Moloney discussed a perspective showdown with the great Filipino champion.

 

 

 

The Australian stated, “It’s a dream to fight one of the best fighters of the past 3 decades. Donaire is one of the greatest of all time. Boxing is a gentleman’s sport, I come to do damage in a ring, but I have respect for my opponents and I can only ever say respectful things about Nonito.

 

 

 

“It’s more motivation, however, to be able to beat such a great fighter, who’s still shown he has plenty in the tank, it defines my legacy as a fighter and a champion. That’s the goal for any fighter, and I hopefully get to do that against Nonito Donaire.

 

 

 

“Stylistically this is a great fight. I’ve shown I have many different tricks up my sleeve, and Nonito is an adaptable fighter. This could be a boxing clinic or an all out war. I’m ready for both. You won’t want to miss it, rest assured 2023 will be the year of Mayhem.”

 

Material Courtesy of: Team Moloney/Photo Courtesy of: Mikey Williams Top Rank Boxing Used with permission.

 

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

Inoue-Butler: Who Will Be Undisputed?

Longtime readers know that a consistent feature every year on this observer’s annual “Boxing Wishlist” that usually begins the schedule at the start of a new year here on The Boxing Truth® that usually ranks near the top of the list, perhaps only outranked by a sincere desire to see the outdated and often inflated pay-per-view model done away with in favor of more economically reasonable subscription-based alternatives, is a wish to eventually see one undisputed world champion crowned in each of Boxing’s seventeen weight divisions. While much like my stance on the pay-per-view model doing more harm to the sport of Boxing than it does to benefit it or the fighters that compete in it, the wish to see one undisputed world champion determined per weight class is something that most fans would probably view as wishful thinking and not realistic. Although it is indeed true that due to the various political aspects that are involved in the sport, including, but not limited to multiple sanctioning organizations, rival promoters, and yes competing television networks that all too often get in the way of fights of significant interest amongst the public being made, much less the task of unifying divisions on both the male and female sides of the sport, there has been gradual progress made in recent years for both men and women in determining one world champion in various divisions.

Despite the fact that the subject of determining one world champion per weight class is a broad one that will continue to be touched upon by yours truly at various times when circumstances warrant it and will unfortunately remain a fixture on this observer’s “Boxing Wishlist” for likely many years to come due to the aforementioned factors, gradual progress is indeed better than no progress at all and for a sport that is all too often surrounded by negatives and at times out right ridiculed for such, anyone that truly has the sport’s best interest at heart should look at any progress in this area as a win for Boxing.

As the remainder of the 2022 Boxing schedule continues to wind down, such progress will continue, this time in the 118lb. Bantamweight division as world champions Nayoya Inoue and Paul Butler will meet to determine the Undisputed Bantamweight championship of the world on Tuesday, December 13th at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan. The fight, which can be seen here in the United States during the early morning hours on digital subscription sports streaming network ESPN+ also continues to show progress in the fact that a fight like this in one of the sport’s lighter divisions is being made available to American audiences. Something that prior to the advent of streaming technology and subscription-based sports networks like ESPN+ and DAZN was not always the case.

One could perhaps make a viable argument that a reason for that as it relates to this particular fight beyond that it will be for an undisputed world championship is the undefeated WBA/IBF/WBC world champion Nayoya Inoue. Although Inoue is actually a three-division world champion , his run in the 118lb. Bantamweight division has exposed him to American Boxing fans due in part to his being co-promoted by Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum’s Top Rank, Inc., who has an exclusive broadcast deal with ESPN. Some may also recall that Inoue emerged as a unified world champion in winning the Bantamweight tournament in the first season of the highly-acclaimed World Boxing Super Series (WBSS) tournaments.

In was in the finals of that tournament where Inoue faced the toughest test of his career in multi-division world champion Nonito Donaire in November 2019. Despite his nickname as “The Monster” and his having carved a reputation as a feared “Knockout Artist,” the veteran Donaire was able to provide Inoue with a battle in what turned out to be one of the best fighter of 2019 that saw Inoue earn a hard fought twelve round unanimous decision.

Since that grueling war, Inoue has continued to score highlight reel knockouts of whomever is put before him. Perhaps both because of Inoue’s ability to score what are often brutal knockouts and the fact that Donaire was really the first fighter to provide significant resistance against him, that a rematch between the two would take place at some point. The second encounter between Inoue and Donaire took place in June of this year, but unlike the toe to toe battle we saw in 2019, Inoue would add Donaire to his list of knockout victims in scoring a brutal second round knockout to add the WBC world championship to his unified crown.

Although Inoue made a statement by knocking out the future Hall of Famer Donaire in devastating fashion and in the process, should have removed any questions that might have been following their first bout three years earlier, I found myself asking one question in the aftermath of that rematch, is there anyone at 118lbs. that can stop this destructive force?

Perhaps the last man standing that can try to answer that question before Inoue likely sets his sights on moving up to the 122lb. Jr. Featherweight division, is the man who will be standing across the ring from him on December 13th in the form of WBO Bantamweight world champion Paul Butler. Butler, a veteran of thirty-six professional fights will have an experience edge over the twenty-three fight veteran Inoue. Butler’s reign as WBO champion only began in April of this year and one might question the wisdom in taking a fight for an undisputed championship so quickly after winning a world championship, despite it being likely the most lucrative bout of his career.

The United Kingdom-based Butler will nevertheless be the visiting fighter as this bout will take place on Inoue’s home turf in Japan. How can Butler pull off what some would call a major upset in this fight? In thinking of how this fight could be fought, I consistently thought of one scenario Butler could attempt to implement. He must try to establish himself as an elusive target from the outset. Nayoya Inoue is a fighter with a seek and destroy mentality that comes forward and looks to cut the ring off from his opponent and set up opportunities to end a fight as quickly as possible. Of  twenty-three career wins, only three fighters managed to go the distance with Inoue. This statistic along with his near 87% career knockout percentage suggests that the fight plan for Inoue will be the same as virtually all his previous fights, press forward, attempt to walk Butler down and land power shots with the intent to end the fight early. Although easier said than done, Butler must be elusive, try to pick his spots, use lateral movement to try and evade Inoue as he comes forward, and resist going toe to toe with him at all times if he wants to be successful.

Ultimately, there are likely some that view this fight as a mere footnote in the career of Nayoya Inoue as he likely looks ahead to the Jr. Featherweight division in the not too distant future. This fight nevertheless does represent the first time that there will be an undisputed world champion in the modern era in the 118lb. Bantamweight division and regardless of what may happen down the line, there is history that will be made. No matter what happens, the sport of Boxing will be elevated, if it turns out to be a great fight that some may not expect as well, even better.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

Inoue vs. Butler takes place on Tuesday, December 13th at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan. The fight can be seen in the United States on digital subscription sports streaming network ESPN+ beginning at 2:30AM ET/11:30PM PT and will be available for on demand viewing shortly after the conclusion of the event. ESPN+ is available on the ESPN app on mobile, tablet, and connected streaming devices/Smart TVs. For more information about ESPN+ including schedules, list of compatible streaming devices, platforms, Smart TVs, and to subscribe please visit: www.ESPNPlus.com. *Check your local listings internationally.

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

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A Monster Destroys: Inoue KO'S Donaire In 2 In Rematch

As the son of a movie buff, this observer grew up with a father who instilled many lessons on his son. Two lessons with regard to movies that I have cone to appreciate as I have gotten older amongst many memories of my father that I think of often were very seldom  does a sequel live up to an original, and there is nothing like a good monster movie.

The first time world champions Nayoa Inoue and Bonito Donaire met in 2019, it was a thrilling back and forth battle, which was hailed as one of the best fights in recent memory and that year's Fight of The Year. As thrilling as that fight was with Donaire putting forth a determined effort in being the first fighter to significantly test a fighter known simply as “The Monster,” it was Inoue who emerged from that battle still undefeated.

Fast forward two and a half years later and both men were once again world champions in the 118lb. Bantamweight division and each remained regarded as the best fighters in the division. Despite the issue of an ongoing global epidemic of COVID-19 that emerged shortly after the first fight, sometimes you just have a feeling when two fighters produce an all-time classic as Inoue and Donaire did that there would inevitably be a continuation to the story between two great fighters.

As someone who has spent most of his life writing about and covering Boxing and by extension combat sports, such a feeling hit me shortly after that fight. The anticipation of the rematch only grew when Donaire regained a portion of the World Bantamweight championship May of last year creating the possibility of not only a second encounter between the two, but also a unique distinction of a rematch being a unification bout as the first encounter was in the same weight class. A distinction that yours truly does not believe has been done before in the history of Boxing.

While such a distinction is also a reflection, whether it be positively or negatively depending on one’s perspective of the politics that be in the sport, it did nevertheless add to the anticipation of what would be one of the most eagerly awaited rematches in recent memory. A rematch that would take place on June 7th at the Saitama Super Arena in Tokyo, Japan. The site of the first meeting between Inoue and Donaire in November 2019.

In previewing this second encounter, I stated that the key in my eyes would be whether or not Donaire would be able to dictate the tempo of the combat. While I also felt that this could be easier said than done,  I felt that Donaire needed to implement a tactical approach this time around and not be baited into a toe to toe war as was the case in the first fight.

Although it is difficult to say what Donaire intended to do from a strategic standpoint, he began the rematch by coming forward and landing a left hook to the head of Inoue. The reason why yours truly suggests that it is difficult to say what Donaire intended to do is because frankly, he was not given time to try and implement any kind of strategy.

It was not long before the two fighters were exchanging heavy punches in a similar fashion as they did in the first fight. Inoue would drop Donaire in the closing seconds of round one with a right hand to the head. Donaire was able to get up, but clearly benefited from there only being seconds remaining in the round.

A clearly hurt Donaire seemingly decided to try and goe toe to toe with Inoue from this point in the fight. A decision that would prove to be costly. Inoue quickly staggered Donaire with a left hook to the head that nearly sent him down. Despite Donaire ‘s ability to somehow stand up to that punch, a follow up barrage from Inoue highlighted by a crushing left hook to the head sent Donaire to the canvas for a second and final time. The fight was over.

Although it can at times be cliché to say, it was a statement making performance by Nayoa Inoue in such a way as it should remove any doubt as to questions regarding the first fight in that, that encounter was reasonably close and competitive. In simple terms Nayoa Inoue lived up to his “Monster” moniker by destroying his opponent in such a way that it should not only cement his status as the top fighter in the 118lb. Bantamweight division, but also serve notice to any would be challengers including current WBO   world champion Paul Butler. As the holder of the WBA, IBF, and now WBC crowns at Bantamweight, with the WBA and WBC titles being won from Donaire in separate fights, Nayoa Inoue is clearly in the driver’s seat and anyone looking to make strides in the division will have to try and go through him.

As for the thirty-nine year old future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire, while this is a defeat that will take time to digest and come back from, he has always represented Boxing with class and dignity as one of the sport’s great ambassadors. Although some might be tempted to say it might be time for him to hang up his gloves after world championships in five different weight classes and forty-nine professional fights, if there is a silver lining to this loss for Donaire, it is though the loss and knockout was brutal, it did not come as a result of a scenario in which he sustained a prolonged beating over the course of a long and grueling fight. Donaire does still have his health and despite the loss, he may not be done as a fighter. To add to that silver lining in closing, at least it will be Donaire who will be able to decide what he wants to do next.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

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Inoue-Donaire 2 Weights From Tokyo, Japan

Press Release: By Probellum – TOKYO, JUNE 6 – Nonito Donaire says he is “fired up” after making weight ahead of his eagerly awaited rematch with Naoya Inoue.

The 39-year-old tipped the scales at 117.8lbs in Yokohama earlier today (June 6), to comfortably come inside the bantamweight limit, while Inoue weighed in at 118lbs. 

Credit: Probellum 

Donaire and his Japanese rival clash at the Super Arena in Saitama tomorrow, with the WBC, WBA and IBF world titles on the line, in a fight the whole of boxing will be watching.

After squaring off with Inoue for the final time before fight night, the Filipino Flash said: “I feel good, I feel great.  It is going to be an amazing night and you can look forward to seeing the best of me.

“I am very fired up and it is going to be a very exciting fight!”

CARL FRAMPTON SEES ‘SHOCK’ IN STORE

NEW GLOVES TO MAKE BIG DIFFERENCE - DONAIRE

The rematch of 2019’s Fight of the Year headlines an event which is promoted by Ohashi Promotion and Teiken Promotions, in association with Probellum, with the first fight due to start at 4:50pm local time, and Donaire vs Inoue scheduled for 9pm local time.

Donaire rebounded from the first fight with Inoue to claim the WBC bantamweight title and set up a second showdown which promises to be more explosive than their classic encounter, nearly three years ago.

The future Hall of Fame inductee is confident of gaining revenge over the fighter known as ‘Monster’ and Donaire wants to set up an undisputed clash with WBO champion Paul Butler.
 
To keep up to date with the latest news on Donaire vs Inoue, sign up to our newsletter or follow Probellum on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.    
 
You can also follow our official news, results, and information account, Probellum News, on Twitter.  

 

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Probellum Used with permission.

 

 Inoue vs. Donaire 2 takes place on Tuesday, June 7^th at the Saitama Super Arena in Tokyo, Japan. The fight can be seen in the United States on digital subscription sports streaming network ESPN+ beginning at 5:30AM ET/2:30AM PT and will be available for on-demand viewing shortly after the live broadcast concludes.  ESPN+ is available through the ESPN app on mobile, tablet, and connected streaming devices/ Smart TVs. For more information about ESPN+ including schedules, list of compatible streaming devices/platforms/Smart TVs, and to subscribe please visit: www.ESPNPlus.com. *Check your local listings internationally.

 

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

 

Inoue -Donaire: The Rematch

In November 2019, the Boxing world saw the conclusion of the second season of the highly acclaimed World Boxing Super Series (WBSS). To be more specific, the conclusion of that season’s Bantamweight tournament where world champions Naoya Inoue and Nonito Donaire put their respective championships on the line to determine not only the tournament winner, but who the best fighter was in the 118lb. Bantamweight division.

 

While the fight also had the storyline of youth versus experience with the future Hall of Famer Donaire in the role of trying to defy the odds by defeating a fighter that had dominated nearly every opponent he had faced in Inoue, no one was prepared for the classic encounter that took place when the two fighters entered the ring. A fight that was fought at a high pace from the opening bell, Inoue and Donaire engaged in a memorable battle for twelve rounds that was regarded by many as 2019’s Fight of the Year.

 

On that evening it was Inoue who was victorious by a twelve round unanimous decision. Now, two and a half years later, Inoue and Donaire prepare to meet again in a rematch that will take place on Tuesday, June 7^th at the Saitama Super Arena in Tokyo, Japan. The fight, which will be broadcast here in the United States by digital subscription-based sports streaming network ESPN+ has two similarities to the first encounter.

 

Like the first fight, it is a unification bout and as was the case going into that bout, Nonito Donaire comes into this fight off of back to back stoppage wins including regaining a portion of the World Bantamweight championship in May of last year. Now as the WBC world champion, Donaire will attempt to claim the unified IBF/WBA crown from Inoue. A unified portion of the Bantamweight championship that includes the WBA championship that Inoue took from Donaire.

 

As was the case going into the first fight, Inoue will enter the rematch having scored knockouts in his last three bouts. The question that will be asked of Nonito Donaire in this fight will be what adjustments has been able to make. While it is important to remember that Donaire is one of only three fighters to have gone the distance with Inoue in his twenty-two professional fights, the first bout between the two was fought in a way that largely favored Inoue in it being mostly toe to toe.

 

Although Donaire was able to remain competitive throughout in a fight that this observer felt was very close, the key in my eyes will be whether or not he will be able to dictate the tempo of the combat. It is important to keep in mind that Nonito Donaire has been through several grueling battles throughout his career and the first encounter with Inoue was no exception.

 

While it may be easier said than done, Donaire must find a way to implement a tactical approach in this rematch. Even though he held his own against Inoue and keeping in mind that he has punching power of his own, the fight that was fought in the first encounter was tailor made for Inoue and that was largely why the victory went to him. This time, Donaire should focus more on Boxing and trying to create openings rather than electing to go toe to toe.  Though the possibility certainly exists that Donaire could catch Inoue with a fight ending blow because after all, anything can happen in Boxing and by extension all combat sports, wisdom would suggest that Donaire saw that the way the first fight was fought was not to his advantage and as such, the focus going into the rematch largely will center on Donaire and whether or not he will be able to make adjustments.

 

In thinking of how an adjustment could be made, this observer feels that he needs to establish himself as an elusive target. The way he could accomplish this could be by using lateral movement. Nayoa Inoue has a style that can be summed up as seek and destroy with an emphasis on walking his opponents down with steady pressure and looking to land power punches. Donaire must use his legs to offset that pressure and look to take advantage of whatever openings Inoue might leave him as well as pick his spots to land his offense.

 

The fight plan for Inoue seem simple, he needs to cut off the ring and try to nullify Donaire ‘s movement. If Donaire is committed to implementing a Boxing strategy this time around, Inoue needs to find a way to do what he was able to accomplish in the first fight. To force Donaire into his type of fight.

 

One of the appeals of rematches throughout all of sports is not only the anticipation of what will happen, but also who will be able to make adjustments and improve on their performance from the previous encounter. For a fight that proved to be the Fight of the Year the last time these two fighters faced each other, the rematch between Inoue and Nonito Donaire certainly has a tough act to follow.

 

“And That's The Boxing Truth.”

 

 Inoue vs. Donaire 2 takes place on Tuesday, June 7^th at the Saitama Super Arena in Tokyo, Japan. The fight can be seen in the United States on digital subscription sports streaming network ESPN+ beginning at 5:30AM ET/2:30AM PT and will be available for on-demand viewing shortly after the live broadcast concludes.  ESPN+ is available through the ESPN app on mobile, tablet, and connected streaming devices/ Smart TVs. For more information about ESPN+ including schedules, list of compatible streaming devices/platforms/Smart TVs, and to subscribe please visit: www.ESPNPlus.com.

 

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

 

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NONITO DONAIRE VS NAOYA INOUE REMATCH TO BE ‘MONUMENTAL’ MOMENT FOR BOXING

 Press Release: By Probellum – LOS ANGELES, MAY 25 – Probellum is honoured to have helped the great Nonito Donaire secure a blockbuster bantamweight rematch with Naoya Inoue – a fight the whole of boxing was calling for. 

Credit: Probellum

Donaire and Inoue combined to produce 2019’s Fight of the Year and will rematch on June 7, at the Super Arena, in Saitama, Japan in one of the biggest contests to be made in the sport.

 

Donaire’s promoter Probellum, led by President Richard Schaefer, has been working tirelessly behind-the-scenes to help make this mouth-watering unification match-up a reality.

 

Next month’s rematch between Donaire and Inoue will be promoted by Ohashi Promotion and Teiken Promotions in association with Probellum. 

 

Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum said: “To be able to help bring together two of the best fighters in the world for this massive unification fight, is a proud moment for our business.

 

NONITO DONAIRE INTERVIEW - 'I'VE MADE MORE IMPROVEMENTS THAN INOUE'

 

“Probellum launched only eight months ago and has already been a key player in making sure the rematch between Donaire and Inoue becomes a reality.

 

“I am incredibly excited for this fight, so too are Donaire and Inoue and the whole of boxing cannot wait for it.”

 

Inoue edged a remarkable first contest between the pair, winning on the judges’ scorecards after 12 rounds, but Donaire fractured his opponent’s nose and broke his orbital bone, in a brutal fight for the ages. 

 

The Japanese star, who forced his rival to touch down in round 11, holds the WBA ‘Super’ and IBF belts in the 118lbs division but since their 2019 fight, Donaire has responded in legendary fashion, by winning the WBC crown with a fourth-round knockout of Nordine Oubaali.

 

The Filipino Flash, Nonito Donaire said: “Our first fight was brutal and amazing, it was a classic, but the rematch is going to be even better.

 

“I am heading into this monumental fight with a new mindset, because the first contest with Inoue was an awakening for me and I now know I can defeat him.

 

“I am incredibly grateful for the work of Richard and Probellum in helping to make this fight a reality because it is not only the fight I wanted, but the one the world wanted as well.

 

“June 7, in Japan, is going to be a special evening for the sport and make no mistake, it will end in a Donaire victory.”

 

Donaire, a future Hall of Fame fighter, joined the Probellum ranks in October last year, not long after the promotional company launched.  

 

The 39-year-old is a four-weight world champion and in winning the WBC bantamweight title in May, broke his own record as the oldest fighter to ever hold a belt in that division.

 

To keep up to date with the latest news on the Donaire vs Inoue rematch, sign up to our newsletter or follow Probellum on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.  

 

You can also follow our official news, results, and information account, Probellum News, on Twitter.

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Probellum Used with permission.

 

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

 

December 11th Thoughts And Previewing December 17th-18th In Boxing

By now, readers have had an opportunity to read and digest this observer's coverage of both Conor Benn's knockout of former world champion Chris Algieri and the continuing evolving story of Boxing's Lightweight division, which coincidentally took place on December 11th. It goes without saying however, that Boxing is one of the most global sports in existence and as such, it can be a challenge for one to adequately keep an eye on all the action that can and often does occur throughout the sport when so many cards and world championship bouts are scheduled for one day around the world. 

 

Even those of us who cover the sport and are used to what yours truly often refers to as marathons of Boxing cards that take place over anywhere from a one to three day period can still find it difficult to keep an eye on and subsequently cover everything that goes on, despite significant advances in technology that frankly makes our jobs easier. While December 11, 2021 was notable for the debut of Probellum, Boxing's newest promotional and managerial entity, something which will be discussed in greater detail after the new year here on The Boxing Truth®, there were two other notable events that took place on that day, which has not previously been covered in recent content that is available in our archives section that deserves some discussion and insight from this observer before a brief preview of what is to follow later in this column. 

 

First up is future Hall of Famer and current WBC Bantamweight world champion Nonito Donaire, who made the first defense of the world title he won back in May of this year by facing unbeaten top contender Reymart Gaballo in a bout that took place at the legendary outdoor arena in Carson, CA currently known as Dignity Health Sports Park. While the venue that has been a staple for Boxing for many years has gone through several name changes in its history, Donaire is one of the legends of the sport to have performed in the stadium. This latest performance by the thirty-nine year old four-division world champion was such that, despite a long career that has seen it’s share of wars, Donaire seems to have plenty of fight left in him as he ended the fight with Gaballo with one second remaining in the fourth round with a left hook to the body.

 

There is simply not much you can say to describe this fight beyond saying that one fighter simply caught the other with a flush shot that landed perfectly. Although it seemed as though the fight was just starting to heat up, when it comes to body punch knockouts, more often than not, it will be where the punch landed that will be the reason for a fight’s conclusion as these type of punches are known to essentially freeze the fighter that is on the receiving end of it. This is precisely what happened in this fight as the left hook that Donaire landed seemed to catch Gaballo on the liver and many fighters including, but not limited to Micky Ward carved out a reputation throughout their careers for their ability to end fights with body shots similar to the one Donaire was able to land in this encounter.

 

Despite a long and grueling career, Donaire appears to not be done carving out his Hall of Fame credentials as he appears to be nearing a rematch with undefeated unified IBF/WBA Bantamweight world champion Noya Inoue, who defeated Donaire in a unification bout in the finals of the World Boxing Super Series (WBSS) Bantamweight tournament in 2019. As this column was in development, Inoue scored a knockout of top contender Aran Dipaen in the eighth round of a fight that took place on December 14th in Tokyo, Japan. With Donaire recently signing with Probellum, and the promotional entity’s global plans, it will be interesting to see if a rematch of what was an extremely competitive fight can be made in 2022. In all honesty, at this stage in his career, it’s the biggest fight that could be on the table for Donaire.

 

The last bout that took place on December 11th, which coincidentally will tie in perhaps heavily to the bouts that will be previewed that will be taking place on December 17th and 18th respectively involved undefeated WBA Light-Heavyweight world champion Dmitry Bivol, who scored a twelve round unanimous decision over Umar Salamov in Ekaterinburg, Russia. Bivol out boxed a very “Game”, but tactically outgunned Salamov over the course of the twelve round bout to earn a convincing decision victory in a fight that did not offer much in the way of highlights, but can be described as a workmanlike performance by the champion..

 

This victory for Bivol should be viewed as one that will allow him to stay active while trying to secure more lucrative opportunities in the 175lb. Light-Heavyweight division. Bivol has been a potential opponent for current Undisputed Super-Middleweight world champion Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, but with Alvarez looking to challenge for a world title in the Cruiserweight division in 2022, a bout between Alvarez and Bivol seems unlikely at least in the short-term. As for where that might leave Bivol as 2022 approaches, there are two Light-Heavyweight bouts that will take place on December 17th and 18th that could well produce his next opponent.

 

The first of these bouts will be fought in Montreal, Canada where undefeated unified IBF/WBC Light-Heavyweight world champion Artur Beterbiev will defend his title against top contender Marcus Browne in a bout that can be seen here in the United States on digital subscription sports streaming network ESPN+. When it comes to potential opponents for Bivol outside of Alvarez, Beterbiev might be at the top of the list. Not only because of his status as a unified world champion, but also the fact that he has knocked out all sixteen of his opponents going into this fight with Browne, As mouth watering as a potential encounter between Bivol, who also has knockout power, and Beterbiev is, Beterbiev must first face what could be a test in the form of top contender Marcus Browne. 

 

Browne, who will enter the bout with a record of 24-1, with 16 Knockouts, has previously held interim/regular champion status in the World Boxing Association’s (WBA) Light-Heavyweight ratings in his career and will be entering his first world championship fight in this bout. Browne is a solid boxer/puncher that is capable of out Boxing an opponent should the opportunity arise and also has punching power. While Browne is one of several fighters throughout the whole sport that has had an interim/regular designation in the WBA rankings in his career, it will be interesting to see how he will respond to fighting for a world championship against a fighter of Beterbiev’s caliber and reputation.

 

It is that reputation in my view as a “Knockout Artist” that Browne will need to be respectful of and the key to this fight for the challenger in my view will be whether or not he will be able to survive what will likely be early pressure by the champion and extend him into the middle and late rounds of this fight. At this stage in Beterbiev’s career, we do not know how he will respond to being taken into the deep waters of a fight or how he will adapt if an initial strategy does not work initially. If Browne succeeds in extending this fight or putting Beterbiev in a scenario or scenarios that we have not seen the champion put in before, some of the questions that have surrounded him may start to get answered in this fight.

 

One fighter who will probably be watching the Beterbiev-Browne bout with keen interest is undefeated former WBC Super-Middleweight world champion Gilberto Ramirez, who will return to action on December 18th in San Antonio, TX where he will face Yuneski Gonzalez in a twelve round bout that can be seen on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN. Much like Bivol, Ramirez has also been name dropped as a potential opponent for Alvarez and like Bivol and Beterbiev, is undefeated in his career. Ramirez will look to position himself for a bout with either Bivol or the Beterbiev-Browne winner in this fight with Yuneski Gonzalez. 

 

In his last bout in July of this year, Ramirez scored a fourth round knockout of longtime contender and former world title challenger Sullivan Barrera. A similarity that Ramirez shares with Dmitry Bivol is that he is a boxer/puncher that is capable of doing pretty much anything from a skill/tactical standpoint. Ramirez’ opponent on this occasion Yuneski Gonzalez will bring a record of 21-3, with 17 Knockouts into the encounter compared to Ramirez’ 42-0, with 28 Knockouts. Gonzalez’ three losses however, all came when he attempted to step up in caliber of opposition, most notably against former WBC Light-Heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk, who stopped him in 2017. The question that I have as this fight approaches is whether or not Gonzalez will be able to make this step up against a fighter of Ramirez’ caliber and skillset. Despite being in the role of opponent, Gonzalez should be taken seriously and if he can step up and/or if Ramirez might be looking past him, he could possibly pull off a surprise here, but the focus will be on what he will be able to bring to the table in this fight. Gonzalez has won three bouts since his loss to Gvozdyk and has won those bouts by knockout so he has earned this chance to see if he can step up. If Gonzalez were to defeat Ramirez, he would almost certainly be entered into the discussion of potential world title contenders. Whether or not he will be able to do that remains to be seen.

 

December 18, 2021 will also feature two rematches in the Cruiserweight and Heavyweight divisions. First, Youtube star Jake Paul will face the man he defeated in August of this year, former UFC Welterweight world champion Tyron Woodley in Tampa, FL in an eight round Cruiserweight bout that can be seen in the United States on Showtime Pay-Per-View. Paul, who is unbeaten in four professional fights as a Cruiserweight was supposed to face fellow unbeaten Cruiserweight Tommy Fury, the brother of undefeated two-time Heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury in what would have been Paul’s first bout against a legitimate boxer after facing two Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighters including Woodley, a former NBA player, and a fellow Youtube star in his pro debut in 2020. Fury however, was forced to pull out of the bout due to an undisclosed medical issue. Thus, Woodley, who did extend Paul eight rounds in August steps in to take an impromptu rematch on short notice. A fight that ended in a split decision victory for Paul, Woodley was able to briefly stun Paul with a hook to the head during the course of the fight, but the consensus was that he simply did not do enough to win the fight.

 

The bout has since been the subject of both speculation and criticism by both fighters and those of us in media for accusations of a supposed no knockout clause in the contract that many feel was a means to protect Paul as well as the issue of a fight between a novice against a former MMA world champion headlining a pay-per-view card.  This observer has said from the get go since the influx of youtube stars and other forms of “Celebrity” began interjecting themselves into the sport of Boxing that I would be objective and give the benefit of the doubt to those who are entering the sport.

 

In Paul’s case, he has shown some development in his bouts and in giving credit where it’s due, he did go eight rounds against Woodley last time out. One does have to wonder however, given the state of both the pay-per-view medium as well as the fact that said medium is gradually being phased out by a subscription-based model as to the wisdom of continuing to market Paul as a pay-per-view attraction when frankly, he is not anywhere near the status of a prospect, much less a contender. While his knack for promotion is something that does generate attention whether it be good or bad, it is hard to take someone seriously who does not box against actual boxers and is being pushed as a pay-per-view star having not gone up against legitimate boxers in addition to having a record where most fighters that are starting out are in the opening bouts on a card, not in a main event position.

 

Although the argument of both Jake and his brother Logan Paul are attracting new eyes to the sport and can interest a more casual observer might indeed be valid, it is only a matter of when and not if the novelty will wear off. It also can be seen as a red flag for a network like Showtime, that has refused to adapt to a subscription streaming model for their top tier pay-per-view level bouts through its parent company ViacomCBS’ streaming network Paramount+ and has seen inconsistent pay-per-view returns would resort to this type of attraction on a regular basis without insisting that Paul faces boxers that could provide a test. In short, one does wonder what standard there is as to what classifies a pay-per-view level fight in 2021 at least as far as Showtime and even Fox Sports, two of the networks in the sport that have as of now been resistant to adapt to a subscription streaming model is concerned.

 

While I continue to be objective, the only question here will be whether or not Woodley will be more aggressive this time out and whether the outcome will be any different. Given that this rematch comes out of necessity of Paul and Showtime wanting to maintain the December 18th date, not out of public demand, and the fact that Woodley has had limited time to prepare, no one can say what type of fight this will be.It is my hope however, that Paul and the others that have ventured into the sport after gaining name recognition in another field show that this is not a novelty and that their ventures in Boxing will include bouts against legitimate boxers.

 

The second rematch that will likely be viewed as the more legitimate of the two that will take place on December 18th will be a Heavyweight bout between former WBO Heavyweight world champion Joseph Parker and former world title challenger, longtime contender, and former European Heavyweight champion Dereck Chisora in a twelve round bout that can be seen on DAZN from Manchester, England.

 

In what was a very close and competitive bout in their first encounter in May of this year, Parker was able to withstand a steady pressure attack from Chisora and outwork him over the second half of the fight to earn a hard-fought split decision victory.  It will be interesting to see if this fight will be fought in a similar fashion because at his best, Dereck Chisora is a come forward pressure fighter and an argument can be made that what led to his defeat in the first fight was as much fatigue from what he was able to do in the first half of the bout as it was what Parker was able to get down over the second half. 

 

Chisora has been at or near the top of the Heavyweight division’s contenders for much of the last decade, but has not succeeded at the top tier of the division, despite his status as a former European champion and former world title challenger. With his forty-fourth fight in a fourteen year career that began in 2007 on the horizon, one might be wondering if this is Chisora’s last chance on the world level of the sport. As for Parker, if he should win this rematch, it is likely that he will try to positon himself amongst several top contenders and former world champions vying for a shot at the World Heavyweight championship. Although Parker’s status as a former world champion is something that theoretically gives him an advantage over other potential challengers, should Dereck Chisora win this rematch, we could be looking at a possible trilogy between the two. If fight two turns out to be as competitive as fight one was, this observer says “Why Not?”

 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

 

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

 

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BOXING LEGEND NONITO DONAIRE JOINS PROBELLUM

 

Press Release: By Probellum – Los Angeles, CA – October 11, 2021 - Probellum is proud to announce the huge promotional signing of boxing legend and nine-time, four-weight world champion Nonito Donaire.  Donaire (41-6, 27 knockouts) is the reigning WBC Bantamweight champion, and is universally recognized as one of the greatest boxers of the last 20 years. 

Credit: Probellum

The 'Filipino Flash' won his current world title with a fourth round knockout win over Nordine Oubaali earlier this year, while he has also claimed world honours at flyweight, super-bantamweight and featherweight.

He has been involved in some of the biggest fights that the sport has seen, sharing the ring with fellow greats like Jorge Arce, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Vic Darchinyan, Naoya Inoue and Carl Frampton.

An extremely popular figure, Donaire is loved and respected around the world, and will now look to add to his already-earned Hall of Fame legacy by joining forces with Probellum, and continuing his long-time relationship with Probellum President Richard Schaefer.

Probellum's number one goal is to empower fighters and galvanize a global fanbase, while promoting the best and biggest fights to boxing fans around the world, with Donaire's arrival helping to achieve that.

His signing sees him follow in the footsteps of other elite names to team up with Probellum, including Regis Prograis, Badou Jack, Eimantas Stanionis, Arthur Biyarslanov, Taras Shelestyuk, Ricky Burns, Eduardo Hernandez and Brandon Moore.

Probellum has also secured co-promotional agreements with some of the biggest promoters in the sport, such as Wasserman Boxing, Universum in Germany, Maravillabox Promotions in Spain, LNK Boxing in Latvia, Glozier Boxing in New Zealand, Shuan Boxing Promotions in the Dominican Republic, Team Ellis Boxing in Australia, Armin Tan Promotions in Indonesia, and Box Office Sports in Ghana.

"Richard Schaefer has always been a “'fighter’s first' promoter," said Nonito Donaire. "I am convinced that with his vision, leadership skills and passion for the fighters he will elevate the sport and most importantly continue to empower fighters. I am proud to be part of Team Probellum and continue my relationship and friendship with Richard."

"In my past 14 years in active boxing, I have never known a person like Richard," said Nonito's manager and wife Rachel Donaire. "For 20 years he has made his name as the one who stood by the fighters.

"Every person I have spoken to who had worked with Richard had the utmost respect and admiration for his passion for the fighters. When we made the shift to work with Richard, it couldn’t be more true that he was a man of his word; fighters come FIRST.

"Richard is a man I would follow into the fire as his knowledge, experience and compassion to fighters is unrivalled. Congratulations to Richard and his team on Probellum. I couldn’t be more happy to continue this next journey with Richard in our corner."

"Nonito and Rachel Donaire are not just the best husband and wife or fighter and trainer team in boxing today but most certainly in the history of the sport," said Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum.

"Nonito is one of the GREATEST fighters in boxing. A future Hall of Famer and four-division and nine-time world champion, but it is not just his talent in the ring but his personality, charisma and values outside of the ring which make him the champion and role model he is.

"I am fortunate to call him my friend. It is a pleasure and an honor for me to have him join Probellum and I can’t wait to help him unify the bantamweight division and conquer many more world titles."

News on when Donaire will have his first fight after signing with Probellum will be announced in the near future.

For live news and updates, be sure to follow Probellum on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

 

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Probellum Used with permission.

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

JASON MOLONEY: I WANT THE BEST, LOVE TO FIGHT DONAIRE

 Press Release: June 3, 2021 By Dragon Fire Boxing – At 38-years-old, Donaire became the oldest bantamweight champion in boxing history Saturday night with a highlight reel fourth-round knockout of Nordine Oubaali to claim the WBC Bantamweight World Championship. 

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

 

This marks Donaire's third reign as bantamweight champion of the world.

 

Don't talk with Nonito Donaire about Father Time. He simply refuses to acknowledge him. "The King has returned!" said Donaire after making boxing history at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

 

Donaire started unloading the heavy artilery in the third round when he caught and dropped Oubaali with a left hook with 46 seconds left in the frame. He then detonated that same left hook to drop Oubaali and become Champion of the World for a 9^th time through all the divisions.

 

One viewer with a vested interest was leading Bantamweight World Title Contender Australian Sensation Jason “Mayhem” Moloney.

 

The Aussie discussed his plans and Donaire’s historic Championship victory. 

 

“My training’s going very well. I’m always in the gym and I’m constantly making big improvements. 

I’ve been ready to fight for months now but unfortunately COVID made it extremely difficult for us to host our fights in Australia. I’m looking to fight asap. I can’t wait to get back in the ring, I’ve got a lot to prove and big goals that I know I will achieve.”

 

“Donaire’s performance against Oubaali was very impressive! 

 

I favoured Donaire leading into the fight but I did wonder whether Father Time might finally catch up to him, especially after an 18-month layoff but he was brilliant.” 

 

“Congratulations to Nonito on another fantastic win! I’ve got a lot of respect for Nonito and what he has achieved in his career.” 

 

“I always want to fight the best and take on the biggest challenges and I’d love the opportunity to fight the future hall of famer, I know it would be a sensational fight and it’s a fight I know I will win.”

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

 

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

 

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