June 7-8th 2019 Thoughts And A Look Ahead To Fury-Schwarz

The weekend of June 8, 2019 was a significant one in the sport of Boxing. Firstly because it was the weekend of the annual International Boxing Hall of Fame induction ceremony. In addition to the IBHOF 2019 class being enshrined in Canastota, NY including inductees Donald Curry, James “Buddy” McGirt, Teddy Atlas, Julian Jackson, Tony DeMarco, Lee Samuels, Guy Jutras, and Don Elbaum, there were some interesting events that took place inside the Boxing ring. Of course, several Boxing cards take place over the course of just about any weekend during a calendar year. This column will discuss cards that took place during IBHOF weekend that took place in New York, NY. We will also take a look ahead to an interesting Heavyweight encounter.

On Friday, June 7th a card took place at the Turning Stone Resort and Casino in Verona, NY that was held as part of the IBHOF weekend. Headlining this card was an intriguing encounter between former two-division world champion Zab Judah and Cletus Seldin. What this fight represented was a classic example of youth versus experience. Judah is a fighter who has held world titles in the 140lb. Jr. Welterweight and 147 lb. Welterweight divisions. At forty-one years old and with some believing his best days as a fighter were behind him, the former world champion returned to the 140lb. Jr. Welterweight division after spending many years fighting in the 147lb. Welterweight division.

The obvious question that is asked whenever a fighter moves down in weight after spending much of their career in a higher weight class is how they will adapt to the change. It was also worth asking the question of whether Judah would show signs of ring rust after only fighting twice in nearly five years. For Cletus Seldin, a man nearly ten years younger than Judah, has been a rising contender in the Jr. Welterweight division, and had established himself as a fighter known for an ability to knock an opponent out with either hand registering a near 77% career knockout percentage prior to the fight. Seldin’s only career loss in twenty-four previous bouts prior to the Judah bout was a ten round unanimous decision loss to Yves Ulysse in December 2017.

Although Judah appeared to get the better of the action in the first round of this fight, the main story would become Seldin’s consistent pressure and near non-stop attack to Judah’s body. Sometimes when watching a fight you can see a pattern develop as it progresses. The pattern in this bout consisted of Seldin pressing forward, throwing punches to Judah’s body, and mixing in offense to the head. Seldin had particular success in landing his right hand to Judah’s head throughout. In contrast to his opponent, Judah threw one punch at a time, which was not reminiscent of the fighter he was in his prime as he was known for his quick hands.

Whether this was due to his age, Seldin’s constant pressure and offense, or a combination of all the above is a matter of opinion. It was clear as the fight progressed however, that the combat was being dictated by the younger and perhaps stronger Seldin. As the rounds went on, it was also clear that Judah was suffering a beating in a fight that was scheduled for twelve rounds with the vacant North American Boxing Association (NABA) Jr. Welterweight championship at stake. Despite the action in the fight becoming increasingly one-sided, I did not get the sense that the bout would end inside the distance. This fight had the look and feel of one that would end in a unanimous decision win for Seldin.  Seldin would take advantage of an opening later in the fight that would ultimately change the appearance of a one-sided decision win to a stoppage inside the distance.

In round eleven, Seldin staggered Judah with a right hand. A follow-up barrage with the former world champion against the ropes seconds later forced Referee Charlie Fitch to stop the fight. Although given what had happened in the fight prior to that point the stoppage was the appropriate call, Judah immediately left the ring following the stoppage appearing to be upset over Fitch’s decision.

What would occur after the fight would appear to indicate that Fitch made the right call as reports began to surface that Judah had been hospitalized for what was described as a brain bleed. While reports ranged from mild to indicating that Judah was in a coma, Star Boxing, the promotional company that promoted the fight released a statement two days after the fight noting that though Judah was hospitalized, he was awake and communicating. This was followed by a further statement on Monday of this week by Star Boxing saying that Judah had been released from the hospital noting that while the former world champion needs rest, his prognosis was promising.

It is worth noting that there was a brutal knockout that took place on the undercard of Judah-Seldin in the Cruiserweight division where Alex Vanasse suffered a knockout in his fight against Eric Abraham. Though Vanasse was alert and communicating, he left the ring on a stretcher.There is no word regarding Vanasse’s condition as of this writing. Some Boxing fans may be aware of the bout between Jr. Flyweights Felipe Orucuta and Johnathan Rodriguez that took place in Mexico on the same night as those where Orucuta collapsed in the ring following being stopped by Rodriguez. Orucuta was placed in a medically induced coma and underwent emergency surgery in the days following the fight to remove a blood clot in his brain. It has been reported by BoxingScene.com’s  Jake Donovan that Orucuta is showing signs of improvement following surgery and is currently under evaluation.

What the knockouts in these three bouts should remind all of us is just how dangerous combat sports can be and underscore the risks fighters take each time they enter the ring to compete. It is something that even the most opinionated of fans should respect.

Outside of the three separate scary moments that occurred on June 7th, the weekend also marked the return of former Middleweight world champion Gennady Golovkin on June 8th at Madison Square Garden in New York City, NY as he took on undefeated Steve Rolls in a bout fought in the 168lb. Super-Middleweight division.

The primary question going into this bout in my mind surrounded the change in Golovkin’s corner following his well-publicized split with longtime trainer Abel Sanchez. The change in bringing in new trainer Johnathon Banks was as much a part of the story of this fight as the bout itself.

In previewing this fight, this observer noted that while Rolls, who was unbeaten in nineteen professional fights prior to meeting Golovkin was  unknown to some, he had won regional titles in both the Jr. Middleweight and Middleweight divisions. It was crucial however, that Rolls get the respect of Golovkin early in my eyes.

It was a bit surprising to see a tactical Boxing match develop between the two as I thought Golovkin might opt to be a bit more aggressive from the outset. What was impressive however, was Rolls’ lateral movement and combination punching early. Clearly Rolls came to fight and was determined to give the former world champion a test that most would not expect. The lack of head movement from Golovkin in the early stages of the bout was also noticeable.

The two fighters were more than willing to engage and more often than not whenever Golovkin would land something significant, Rolls would answer with offense of his own. While some may have expected a quick knockout win and a statement making performance by Golovkin in his first fight since losing his unified Middleweight world championship in his second encounter with Saul “Canelo” Alvarez in September of last year, it was a competitive fight and Rolls showed that he intended to make the most of the opportunity he was given in what was the biggest fight of his career.

Golovkin’s reputation as one of Boxing’s feared power punchers and “Knockout Artists” would show itself in round four. A short left hook to the head appeared to buckle the legs of Rolls. Golovkin would follow this with an overhand right that sent Rolls against the ropes. A short left hook to the head moments later would send Rolls down and out on the canvas.

At the end of the day, this was another knockout that will be added to Gennady Golovkin’s highlight reel. There will be some however, that will question whether the success Rolls was able to have prior to the knockout was a sign of decline for the thirty-six year old Golovkin. Yours truly will not make assumptions or elude to Golovkin being in possible decline.

While some might be critical of Golovkin’s performance, it is important to remember that this was his first fight with a new trainer in his corner. Although it is not an excuse and Golovkin did take some solid punches throughout from Rolls, it can take time for a fighter and a new coach to gel. Golovkin did accomplish what was the intended goal, getting back in the win column while also continuing to keep interest in a third fight between himself and Saul Alvarez at a high.

Whether or not that fight will take place later this year remains to be seen. With both fighters signed to and competing under the DAZN banner and with the digital sports streaming network looking to continue to provide a more economically reasonable alternative to the pay-per-view model while also looking to continue to build their global subscriber-base, I do not see a third encounter between the two being put off for too long.

Now we come to a look ahead to this Saturday and the return of former Heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury as he returns to the ring following his draw last December with current WBC world champion Deontay Wilder. The undefeated Fury will face fellow unbeaten Heavyweight Tom Schwarz in a twelve round bout at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, NV in the main event of a card televised by ESPN+ here in the United States.

As some might recall Fury appeared to be on his way to regaining a portion of the World Heavyweight championship in his fight against Wilder, but two knockdowns late in the fight that the champion was able to score resulted in a disputed draw. Fury showed his mettle in the twelfth round of that fight by getting up from what was the second knockdown Wilder was able to score when it appeared he had been knocked out in a scenario that could best be described as miraculous.

Fury will now turn his attention to the unbeaten Tom Schwarz.Schwarz, the German Heavyweight champion will enter the fight undefeated in twenty-four professional fights having scored knockouts in sixteen of those fights. While the 6’5 Schwarz has an impressive resume, he has faced limited competition thus far in his career and it is understandable how some might view him as an underdog going into this encounter with Fury.

In this observer’s eyes this fight will come down to what Schwarz will be able to bring to the table against the 6’9 Fury. Fury has nineteen knockouts in his twenty-seven career wins, but is more known for his ability to be elusive and awkward. It was his elusiveness and awkward style that frustrated Deontay Wilder into missing a significant portion of his offense in their fight last December. One could make the argument however, that once Wilder was able to shorten his punches and land on Fury, that it became a different fight.

It is indisputable that the two knockdowns Wilder was able to score late in the fight allowed him to earn a draw on the scorecards and retain his world championship. Although Schwarz is an underdog in this fight, it will be interesting to see if there is something that he saw from Fury’s fight with Wilder that he can implement into his strategy for this fight.

  The Heavyweight division is still reeling from Andy Ruiz’ upset two weeks ago over previously undefeated unified Heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua. With Deontay Wilder’s recent victory over Dominic Breazeale and Ruiz and Joshua headed towards a contractually mandated rematch later this year, this fight between Fury and Schwarz has the underlying question of whether the landscape of the division will continue to change. After all, anything can happen.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

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

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

The 2019 FBHOF Weekend Approaches

Boxing is a sport with no shortage of interest, debate, and opinions regarding just about every aspect of the sport. At times the debates and opinions can surround subjects that can be described as negative that can unfortunately create a bad impression of the sport. There are occasions however, where the good the sport has to offer and those who have devoted their lives to Boxing should receive recognition. Such an occasion will take place on June 21st-June 23rd in Tampa, FL as the 2019 Florida Boxing Hall of Fame weekend will take place at the Westshore Grand Hotel.

The weekend of events will kick off on Friday June 21st with the annual amateur fight night event, which will feature some of the up and coming amateur boxers the state of Florida has to offer.  On Saturday, June 22nd, the weekend will continue with an all day event featuring fist castings, a memorabilia sale, radio show, a referee/judge seminar with 2009 FBHOF inductee Brian Garry, the basic fundamentals of Boxing with 2011 FBHOF inductee Dwaine Simpson and Guy Simpson, book signings, and autographs. The festivities will continue later that evening with a banquet dinner. The weekend will conclude on Sunday, June 23rd with a breakfast with the inductees followed by the official induction ceremony of the 2019 Florida Boxing Hall of Fame class.

This year’s class includes:

 Boxers: Jr. Middleweight and Middleweight  Eromosele Albert, Jr. Welterweight Juan Arroyo, Former Lightweight world champion Nate Campbell, Former Light-Heavyweight and Cruiserweight  Richard Hall, Jr. Featherweight  Jimmy Navarro, Heavyweight Lou Esa, Lightweight Lamar Murphy, Light-Heavyweight James Scott.

Official/Commission: Telis Assimenios, Frank Gentile, Dr. Mel Jurado, Dr. Rodolfo Eichberg,

Trainer/Manager: Mike Birmingham, Pete Brodsky

Promoter: Nelson Lopez, Sr.

Media: Damon Gonzalez, Sean O’Grady

Participant: Henry Grooms, Chico Rivas, Pete Baleunas

Boxing Achievement Award: Emil Lombardi Jr., Mitchell Cypress



In addition to the annual Hall of Fame weekend of events, the FBHOF is committed to furthering the youth in the community with the establishment of the Don Hazelton Scholarship as well as supporting an ongoing book donation program and assisting ill or disabled veteran boxers.  The Florida Boxing Hall of Fame weekend is a must for any fan of the sport of Boxing. This observer was honored to attend the FBHOF Amateur fight night event back in 2017 and one of the aspects of evening I really enjoyed beyond the atmosphere of the event was simply listening to the various inductees and other Boxing personalities share stories of their respective careers and involvement in the sport.

While the sport may never have a shortage of detractors and/or critics who will always look to point out the sport’s flaws, the Boxing fan should embrace the good the sport has to offer, take time to recognize and honor those who have dedicated their lives to the sport, as well as supporting the future of Boxing. The Florida Boxing Hall of Fame weekend is a truly great atmosphere for the Boxing community and its fans in the state of Florida. It is an experience that any Boxing enthusiast should enjoy.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

For more information about the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame and to purchase tickets, please visit: www.floridaboxinghalloffame.com. The full schedule of events can be found below.

Friday, June 21st- Annual FBHOF Amateur Fight Night Event 7:30PM Bell time, Doors open at 7PM

Saturday, June 22nd Day Event: 11AM-4PM Featuring Fist Casting, Memorabilia Sale, Book Signings and Autograph Signings.

11AM-1PM: Radio show

1:30PM: Referee/Judge Seminar with 2009 FBHOF Inductee: Brian Garry

2:30PM: The Fundamentals of Boxing with 2011 FBHOF Inductee: Dwaine Simpson and Guy Simpson

Evening Event:

Saturday Night Banquet:

Registration: 6:30PM- Dinner: 7:15PM cash bar

Sunday June 23rd

Breakfast with the inductees: 8:30AM-9:30AM

Official Induction Ceremony: 11AM



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

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

Jason Moloney Ready To Steal The Show On June 15 At Seagulls Stadium

Credit: Team Moloney

Press Release: June 9, 2019 By Team Moloney – Jason Moloney is all set to continue his march towards a crack at the world bantamweight title, as he faces the task of a late change in opposition this coming week at the Seagulls Stadium, Tweets Head. 

Moloney opened up about training camp and his reaction to a late change of opponent. 

The world-rated bantamweight stated, ”Training camp has gone perfectly for this fight with Angelo and the team. I always prepare correctly no matter the circumstances. It's what being a professional is about. Plan for every circumstance!” 

Moloney continued, discussing the late change in opponent, ”These things happen but thank you to my manager Tony Tolj for getting me a replacement who is going to come to test me.

”You can never overlook any fighter. Look what happened with Anthony Joshua last week. I can't let slip-ups like that happen to me.” 

The final if the World Boxing Super Series will be contested between Filipino legend Nonito Donaire and the monster Naoya Inoue. Moloney gave his assessment on the final and opened up about his plans post-June 15.

’The Smooth One’ said, ”Firstly I'm not overlooking my task on June 15. I have a tough opponent and I want to put on a show as this could be the last time I fight in Australia for the foreseeable future. I want this show to be an unforgettable night of boxing for all Australian fight fans.”

Moloney, who along with brother Andrew recently linked up with global promotional juggernauts Top Rank, continued, ”I think Inoue will win but it's a great fight. I wish I could have had the opportunity to fight Inoue as I feel I beat Rodriguez but that is in the past. 

”I want world titles this year so for me a fight with the WBA number 1 Solis for the world title is one that I would want. There is talk of Rigondeaux fighting at bantamweight too and if I had to fight  him I would do happily.”

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Team Moloney Used with permission.

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

Golovkin-Rolls Weights

Credit: Amanda Westcott/DAZN

Press Release: By DAZN NEW YORK, June 7, 2019 – A day ahead of the highly-anticipated return of pound-for-pound Kazakh superstar Gennadiy “GGG” Golovkin (38-1-1, 34 KOs) and his dangerous showdown against undefeated Top-10 contender and Toronto native Steve Rolls (19-0, 10 KOs), the fighters tipped the scales on Friday afternoon at Madison Square Garden. The fight will be contested at a maximum weight of 164 lbs. and streamed live on DAZN beginning at 7:00 p.m. ET / 4:00 p.m. PT. GGG vs. Rolls kicks off the exclusive six-fight, three-year global partnership between GGG Promotions and DAZN, the world's fastest-growing sports streaming platform.

Gennadiy “GGG” Golovkin

“I feel great. Thank you guys. Good to see everybody. Tomorrow – I’m bringing big drama show.”

How’s he feeling at the contracted weight of 164 lbs.? “I feel nothing different, just only a few pounds. It’s nothing. Maybe just one time drinking coffee.”

On his opponent: “He looks good. He looks strong. I thank my opponent. This is serious business.”

Steve Rolls

“It feels great to be here. This is what I worked so hard for and I’m finally here and I’m looking forward to taking full advantage of it. I’m bringing a fight. I’m bringing that drama show – I’m going to be a part of the big drama show tomorrow night.”

On if the contracted weight of 164 lbs. makes a difference for him? “No, it doesn’t. I’m very comfortable at this weight. I’m used to fighting at 160 but I’ve fought over 160 many times so there’s no issue with the weight.”

On Ruiz’s upset: “I’ve always been very motivated even before last weekend happened but it was great to see that and it makes fan that much more intrigued about what’s going to happen with this fight.”

Undefeated super middleweight contenders Ali Akhmedov (14-0, 10 KOs) of Almaty, Kazakhstan and Marcus McDaniel (15-0, 2 KOs) of New Orleans also faced off ahead of their clash for the vacant WBC International Super Middleweight title in the co-main event. Also part of the main card, in a battle of undefeated Brooklyn brawlers, rising star Brian Ceballo (8-0, 4 KOs) and Bakhtiyar Eyubov (14-0-1, 12 KOs) will be slugging it out in an eight-round welterweight battle for borough supremacy. 

+++

  

12-Round Middleweight Bout @ 164 lbs.

Gennadiy “GGG” Golovkin – 163 lbs.

Steve Rolls -  163.8 lbs.

10-Round WBC International Super Middleweight Title Bout @ 168 lbs.

Ali Akhmedov – 167.4 lbs.

Marcus McDaniel – 168 lbs.

8-Round Welterweight Bout @ 148 lbs.

Brian Ceballo – 147.6 lbs

Bahktiyar Eyubov – 148 lbs.

10-Round Super Welterweight Bout @ 154 lbs.

Israil Madrimov – 153.2 lbs.

Norberto Gonzalez – 152.8 lbs.

10-Round USBA Jr. Middleweight Bout @ 154 lbs.

Charles Conwell – 153.4 lbs.

Courtney Pennington – 152 lbs.

4-Round Middleweight Bout @ 163 lbs.

Nikita Ababiy – 162.6 lbs.

Juan Francisco Barajas – 157.2 lbs.

4-Round Welterweight Bout @ 147 lbs.

Johnathan Arroyo – 146.2 lbs.

Jordan Morales – 146 lbs.

Promoted by GGG Promotions, in association with DiBella Entertainment, remaining tickets to the latest action-packed episode of the Big Drama Show -- the battle between Golovkin and Rolls -- may be purchased at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008), and online at www.ticketmaster.com and www.msg.com.

About DAZN:
DAZN is the largest global sports streaming platform in the world. Since launching in 2016, DAZN had expanded across four continents with the service available in the United States, Canada, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Japan and Brazil. DAZN guarantees no long-term contract, no bundles, just affordable access to all the service's sports on connected devices including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, games consoles and PCs. In the U.S., DAZN has made its mark as an attractive alternative to pay-per-view within the combat sports industry. The platform features more than 100 fight nights per year from Matchroom Boxing, Golden Boy Promotions, GGG Promotions, Bellator MMA, the World Boxing Super Series and Combate Americas. DAZN also features live MLB action each day of the season with its new daily show, ChangeUp.

Material Courtesy of: DAZN/ Photo Courtesy of: Amanda Westcott/DAZN Used with permission.

Golovkin vs. Rolls takes place Saturday, June 8^th at Madison Square Garden in New York City, NY. The fight as well as it’s full undercard can be seen in the United States and several international countries on digital sports streaming network DAZN beginning at 7PM ET/4PM PT (U.S. Time) For more information about DAZN, schedules, list of available streaming devices, availability around the world, and to subscribe, please visit: www.DAZN.com.

Check your local listings internationally.

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

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

Steve Gago Reacts To Standout Performance At IBF Convention In Macau

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing

Press Release: June 7, 2019 By Dragon Fire Boxing – Steve Gago put on a 10 round masterclass in Macau as he overcame the challenge of the tricky Adam Abdulhamid, winning the IBF Pan-Pacific Welterweight crown in the process. 

Gago, who now moves to 11-0, opened up about his victory in Macau and the overall experience of boxing at the prestigious convention. 

The ‘Timorese Terror’ said, “I felt really good to get back in the ring doing what I do best at such a prestigious event so I have got to thank my manager Tony Tolj and everybody at the IBF for making it a possibility!

“My opponent was a tricky customer. I caught him with some good shots early on and when he felt my power he seemed to a bit reluctant to engage. I stuck to the game plan and got the win and that’s what the objective was.” 

Gago will now likely break into the world top 25 in the IBF ratings at just 11-0. This naturally will open doors for the all-action Aussie, doors Gago and his team seem to be fully aware of. 

Gago continued, discussing the setting of the IBF convention in Macau and his plans for the foreseeable future. 

The Western Australian stated, “To box in such an amazing venue as the Wynn Palace in Macau is something that will live with me forever and I honestly can’t thank my team, my manager Tony Tolj and the IBF for making that happen. 

“The convention really is a special event to be a part of in any capacity but to win a title at it is a dream in itself. 

“Going forward I want to carry on developing and working my way up the world rankings at the right place. I have a great management team who have guided me perfectly so far and I fully trust them to get me the right fights at the right time.” 

Gago’s manager comes in the form of Australian Boxing kingpin Tony Tolj, who manages an array of top talents in the Australasian region. Tolj gave his take on his charge Gago’s title-winning performance. 

Tolj said, “Steve Gago is getting better all the time and he has a really bright future ahead of him. 

“We guide all our fighters correctly and get them opportunities such as the one Steve has gotten in Macau. He has the talent to go to the very top but we’re building and I’m sure that the world will hear a lot about Steve Gago in the coming months and years.”

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.

The Return Of Gennady Golovkin

Boxing is a sport that has many stories throughout its history. These stories can at times revolve around the dominance of a fighter throughout their career. The history of the sport is full of stories of such fighters. Among them is the story of Gennady Golovkin, a fighter known simply by his initials GGG.

Golovkin reigned supreme over the 160lb. Middleweight division for several years becoming a unified world champion and establishing a reputation as a feared “Knockout Artist.” As has been the case for fighters who earn that reputation/label came a problem in securing fights against fighters that are thought of as stars in the sport. The dominance Golovkin was able to establish eventually paid off as he faced Saul “Canelo” Alvarez in September 2017.

A highly competitive fight that many including this observer felt Golovkin did enough to win, ended in a disputed draw. The highly anticipated rematch in September of last year produced similar feelings. Unlike the first encounter however, the rematch saw Alvarez declared the winner in a disputed decision.

In chronicling Golovkin’s career, readers became accustomed to yours truly referencing the Middleweight championship reigns of Marvelous Marvin Hagler and Bernard Hopkins. Two legends that each had lengthy reigns atop the division and in the case of Hopkins, set the all-time record for consecutive Middleweight world championship defenses with twenty defenses. If Golovkin were successful in his rematch with Alvarez, he would have tied Hopkins’ record. In an ironic way, Alvarez victory over Golovkin controversial as it might be depending on one’s perspective made another parallel between Golovkin, Hagler, and Hopkins.

All three Hagler, Hopkins’ and Golovkin each saw their respective reigns as Middleweight world champion come to an end by way of coming out on the short end of a disputed decision. While Hagler’s loss to Sugar Ray Leonard in April 1987 signaled the end of his career, Hopkins attempted to avenge his July 2005 loss to Jermain Taylor in December of that year, but again came up short in another close and disputed decision loss.

While a third encounter between Alvarez and Golovkin remains on the horizon for the future, Golovkin will make his return to the ring on June 8^th against relative unknown, but undefeated contender Steve Rolls at Madison Square Garden in New York City, NY. The bout, which will be televised in the United States and several international countries around the world by digital sports streaming network DAZN, will be fought in the 168lb. Super-Middleweight division in what will be Golovkin’s first fight at 168lbs.

This fight features a couple of interesting storylines. Firstly Golovkin’s return to the ring after a near year lay-off in the first of a multi-fight agreement between the former Middleweight world champion and DAZN after fighting most of the last several years under the now inactive HBO Boxing banner. A surprising twist emerged shortly after Golovkin’s signing with DAZN was announced and that was his split with longtime trainer Abel Sanchez.

At thirty-six years old, Golovkin will now have a new voice in his corner in the form of former IBO world Cruiserweight champion, longtime Heavyweight contender, and trainer Johnathon Banks. Banks, as some may recall, emerged as a respected trainer in the sport when following the passing of Hall of Fame trainer Emanuel Steward in 2012, he took over as the trainer of then unified Heavyweight world champion Wladimir Klitschko.

The main question that faces any fighter who splits from a longtime trainer and particularly a trainer who led said fighter to great success is what can the new trainer bring to the table that could benefit the fighter. In thinking of this question and the scenario Golovkin now finds himself in, thoughts began to come to mind regarding potential tactical and technical adjustments that Banks may be able to implement into Golovkin’s arsenal.

It is important to remember the credentials Banks has. Not only did he take over for Emanuel Steward as a trainer for Klitschko shortly before Steward’s death, but more importantly he also fought under Steward’s tutelage. Emanuel Steward was and will always remain one of the best trainers the sport of Boxing has ever known. A man who knew how to combat many styles of Boxing and had an emphasis on technique that he taught his stable of fighters. Such a Boxing education has benefited Banks as a trainer and despite loss of Steward, Wladimir Klitschko was able to enjoy continued success for several more years with Banks in his corner.

One aspect that did work against Golovkin in his rematch with Saul Alvarez was he did not go to the body enough throughout that fight. Despite the opinions of many including yours truly that Golovkin won that fight as well as the first encounter, by his not focusing a portion of his offense on Alvarez’ body one might argue that it allowed some rounds that were thought to be close to be scored in Alvarez’ favor. If Banks can add to what was already a dangerous offensive arsenal and improve Golovkin’s skill set perhaps a third encounter with Alvarez might go his way in terms of winning rounds that are deemed close by the official judges.

Before Golovkin can set his sights on the third fight that not only he, but most of the Boxing world wants to see between himself and Alvarez, he must contend with Steve Rolls. Rolls, a relative unknown outside of his native Canada, but is a fighter that will enter this fight with an unbeaten record of 19-0, with 10 Knockouts.

Despite being under the radar of most Boxing fans, Rolls has won both the United States Boxing Association (USBA) Middleweight and North American Boxing Federation (NABF) Jr. Middleweight championships in his career and fighters who are able to win titles on a regional level are usually about to step up against world level opposition. There is no disputing however, that this is a significant step up in caliber of opposition for Rolls and it will be interesting to see how he responds to not only fighting someone of Golovkin’s reputation and stature in the sport, but also fighting in Madison Square Garden for the first time and in a main event.

How can Rolls find success in this fight? It is crucial in this observer’s view that Rolls get the respect of Golovkin early in this fight. Rolls has shown that he has the ability to get an opponent out of there if the opportunity presents itself, but he is a boxer/puncher and must establish himself as an elusive target and theoretically also establish the tempo of the combat in the process.

At his core, Gennady Golovkin is a devastating puncher with either hand, and has shown the ability to be systematic in his approach throughout his career. Logic suggests that Golovkin will look to take a similar approach in this fight by looking to cut the ring off from Rolls and break him down as the bout progresses.

There is no dispute that the fight that has been on the collective minds of both the public as well as those inside the sport has been what is viewed as the eventual third encounter between Golovkin and Alvarez. While there is no doubt that there remains unfinished business between the two and that Golovkin’s bout against Steve Rolls is likely seen as a “Safe” way for Golovkin to test the waters of the 168lb. Super-Middleweight division before returning to the 160lb. Middleweight division to resume his rivalry with Alvarez, it is worth reminding the public/reader that nothing is a sure thing in the sport of Boxing. You need not look further than last weekend’s upset in Madison Square Garden, the same venue where this fight will take place, where top contender Andy Ruiz, who was virtually dismissed as a challenger to undefeated unified Heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua in what was thought to be a showcase for the champion in his much anticipated U.S. debut, scored four knockdowns of the champion to ultimately win the Heavyweight crown. Ruiz showed the public, who at times do not understand the sport and who did not regard him highly, despite his impressive record and status as a former world title challenger entering that fight that you can never dismiss an opponent, especially when that opponent has nothing to lose and everything to gain. Andy Ruiz now sits as one of two fighters in the Heavyweight division that hold claim to the World Heavyweight championship having seized the opportunity that was placed before him in defeating Anthony Joshua by stoppage.

While the circumstances of Ruiz’ getting the opportunity to fight Joshua is completely different than the Golovkin-Rolls bout, and even though there is no world championship on the line in this fight, if Rolls can seize the opportunity before him in the biggest fight of his career against a star in the sport, the opportunities that would be ahead for him could be significant. Golovkin, who attended the Joshua-Ruiz fight has one objective. He must focus on the task at hand and face the fighter in front of him on Saturday night. If for whatever reason he is focused on a third encounter with Saul Alvarez and is not focused on Steve Rolls, what may be seen as an eventual showdown between himself and Alvarez may have a monkey wrench thrown into the equation.

As we saw with Joshua-Ruiz, sometimes all a fighter needs is an opportunity. An opportunity to face a fighter held in a higher regard and if said fighter can take advantage, an opportunity to turn a division upside down and generate significant buzz within the Boxing world. One upset has already occurred. We will see if Steve Rolls can create another memorable moment in “The Mecca of Boxing” Madison Square Garden.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

Golovkin vs. Rolls takes place Saturday, June 8^th at Madison Square Garden in New York City, NY. The fight as well as it’s full undercard can be seen in the United States and several international countries on digital sports streaming network DAZN beginning at 7PM ET/4PM PT (U.S. Time) For more information about DAZN, schedules, list of available streaming devices, availability around the world, and to subscribe, please visit: www.DAZN.com.

Check your local listings internationally.

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Andy Ruiz Seizes Opportunity

A not so uncommon scenario that occurs in the sport of Boxing is one that sees a fighter face what amounts to a substitute opponent that takes a fight on short notice. While the circumstances that lead to such a scenario can vary, the fighter who steps into a fight with limited time to prepare is almost always viewed as someone with little chance of success against the established fighter with name recognition.

The fight between undefeated IBF/WBA/IBO/WBO Heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua and top contender Andy Ruiz was one such encounter that was not treated with much thought by many Boxing fans. This was due to both Joshua’s previous dominance in successfully unifying four of five recognized world championships in the division as well as his having scored knockouts in twenty of his twenty-one professional fights. There was also a misconception of Ruiz based not only on his taking the fight on short notice, but also his physique, which does not necessarily suggest to someone not in the know that he is a fighter that is in shape to fight for a world championship.

In previewing this fight, this observer stated, despite Ruiz’ misleading physique that he had good hand speed for a Heavyweight and could throw punches in several variations of combination. I also stated that the primary obstacle that Ruiz would face had to do with physics in facing an opponent with a four-inch height advantage and an eight-inch reach advantage. As is the case in virtually all fights that have a scenario of a physically shorter fighter going against a naturally bigger fighter, the primary task is to close the distance where the reach disadvantage does not necessarily work against the physically shorter fighter.

Despite not so favorable circumstances, some criticism from fans, and some treating this fight as a mere afterthought, Joshua and Ruiz finally faced off on June 1st at Madison Square Garden in New York City, NY with Joshua’s four portions of the World Heavyweight championship at stake, A question I had as this fight approached on the day it took place was how Joshua would approach his offense in the bout. What I mean by that is Ruiz was after all a substitute opponent and, despite his impressive resume was not given much chance by some. When one also factors into the equation that the fight was treated almost as a showcase for Joshua in his U.S. debut and the fact that he was a twenty to one favorite to retain his crown, the question of whether the champion would approach the fight looking for a quick/impressive knockout and not show his opponent respect was appropriate to wonder.

At the same time, I also wondered what role if any the atmosphere of fighting in Madison Square Garden would have on both fighters. Although Anthony Joshua has proven to be a significant big draw in routinely drawing massive crowds in stadiums in the United Kingdom between 70,000-and 90,000, this was his first time fighting in Madison Square Garden and I wondered what effect that might have on him. Andy Ruiz meanwhile was also fighting in Madison Square Garden for the first time, but had been catapulted into a major fight after original opponent Jarrell Miller failed multiple tests for banned substances under randomized testing under the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (VADA) testing protocols. Even though Ruiz had more experience than the champion and had fought once for a world championship in his career prior to this fight, one may have been justified to question whether or not Ruiz would freeze with such a spotlight on him.

What surprised me was to see a somewhat tactical battle from the outset. Joshua throwing jabs and moving, Ruiz walking the champion down and looking to exploit openings to land counter punches. One thing that I noticed almost immediately about Joshua’s approach was, despite his using the jab, he did not control the distance and make use of his reach advantage. By the champion not successfully keeping Ruiz at a distance where it would have been to Joshua’s advantage, it allowed the challenger to close the distance and find openings to land offense.

A tactical chess match in the early rounds where both fighters had their moments became an afterthought during what can only be described as a chaotic round three. An uppercut/hook combination to the head sent Ruiz down early in the round. Although it was a clear knockdown, Ruiz appeared calm and not visibly hurt. As the champion appeared to move in, in an attempt to finish the fight, the challenger would answer back stunning the champion with a left hook that appeared to land on the temple followed by a short right hand that put Joshua down on the canvas.

In contrast to the knockdown that he had scored moments earlier in sending the challenger down, the champion appeared hurt and in trouble. This was confirmed when Ruiz scored a second knockdown of Joshua late in the round. At this point in the fight, I began to get the feeling that history might be on the verge of being made.

When one covers Boxing and by extension combat sports for as long as yours truly has there are two things to always keep in the back of your mind. “Always expect the unexpected “, and as I have often said over the years “Anything can happen at any given time.” While I personally dealt with several folks in the days leading up to the fight who felt that Ruiz had no chance and even went as far as to verbalize insults based on his physique, I never felt that way. The main reason is that I cover the sport and knew Ruiz’ credentials and what he could do if the opportunity presented itself. Although I wasn’t prepared to start writing a column just yet after the challenger scored two knockdowns of Joshua, if nothing else, I knew that those who hurled insults prior to this fight would realize that Ruiz was not a pushover, even if said people would not want to admit it publicly.

To the champion’s credit, he was able to get out of the round, but it was clear that this would be a significant test for Joshua. The first since his fight against Wladimir Klitschko back in 2017 where he also suffered a knockdown. This was the first time however, where I felt Joshua was in danger of being the victim of a knockout loss.

Rounds four through six appeared to have a similar ebb and flow as the first two rounds, a tactical pace where both fighters were able to have periods of effectiveness. Despite this, Joshua appeared wary and not fully recovered from what had happened in round three.

The seventh round proved to be where a new champion would be crowned. Ruiz landed a left hook that set off a barrage of punches that sent the champion down for the third time. This would be followed by a fourth knockdown seconds later as a result of what appeared to be a glancing hook to the head of Joshua. As he had done the previous three times he was knocked down, Joshua showing his mettle got to his feet once again. Although the champion after briefly looking to his corner told Referee Michael Griffin that he wanted to continue, he did not appear to have control of his body resulting in the fight being stopped. Andy Ruiz had taken Joshua’s portions of the World Heavyweight championship and in the process created what is likely to be one of the more significant stories of 2019.

There are times after a fight where this observer will take a few days to collect my thoughts and really digest what has taken place. It is after all customary to see a lot of hysteria and expression of shock and surprise when a dominant world champion loses their crown to a significant underdog in the classic example of what is referred to as “An Upset.” I personally spent several hours after this fight answering texts and other forms of communication across various social media platforms from people who expressed shock over the outcome and/or hurled insults at the new champion and former champion.

Joshua for his part was very classy in defeat in congratulating the new champion and saying it wasn’t his night. Ruiz was also humble in victory having made the most of an opportunity that was placed before him.

Although I have earned a reputation over the years as someone who is hard on fans when I see the types of insults that I, unfortunately, saw after this fight, a lesson can be learned here from both Joshua and Ruiz in regard to the classy manner in which they conducted themselves after the fight. While I do not want to spend time here discussing the insults I saw after the fight as I feel it would be a waste of not only my time, but more importantly, the readers of The Boxing Truth®️ and of this particular column, I do not condone some of the rhetoric that I came across and consider such insults and vulgarity to be “Classless.” Even though those who chose to insult both the new champion and former champion by resorting to such conduct, fans are entitled to their opinion. In my experience however, such opinions and vulgarity tend to come in the form of those who have biases that influence their point of view and/or do not understand the sport and all the aspects that can go into it. It also shows a disrespect in my view for the fighters in what they risk to ultimately in various forms entertain those who watch a fight.

As others expressed their shock over Ruiz knocking Joshua out to win four of five recognized versions of the World Heavyweight championship, I found myself not necessarily feeling shocked. It is important to remember that despite physical appearances, Andy Ruiz was prior to this fight a top-five rated contender in the Heavyweight division, who’s only loss came in a close majority decision that was for a vacant world championship. Ruiz had the credentials that should have been viewed as someone that could provide Joshua a difficult fight, despite taking the fight on limited notice. I wasn’t necessarily shocked as much as I immediately began thinking of what this could mean for the rest of the Heavyweight division.

As much as the Boxing world has anticipated the full unification of the division for some time, that will be put on hold at least for the immediate future. The reason for this is undefeated WBC world champion Deontay Wilder will have a rematch against top contender Luis Ortiz in the fall. As for Andy Ruiz, the first Mexican World Heavyweight champion will face Joshua later this year in a contracted mandatory rematch per the former champion choosing to exercise his rematch clause. When one also factors into the equation that there are other contenders who have earned world title shots at championships held by Ruiz and Wilder, the prospect of full unification of the Heavyweight division becomes one that may be at least a few years away.

What the outcome of this fight should prove not only to anyone involved in the sport but also fans who tend to dismiss a fighter’s chances is as yours truly has often said over the years, “Anything Can Happen At Any Given Time And That Is What Makes Boxing So Great.” There are thousands of fighters throughout the entire sport that may not be known to many and may not even be on the radar of the respective sanctioning organizations rankings, but all of whom are simply awaiting their opportunity to compete on the world level. Andy Ruiz was able to seize his opportunity, now the task ahead will be defending his crown. We will see what happens when Ruiz and Joshua meet again later this year.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

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

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MEPRANUM CAPTURES IBF REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP IN MACAU

Credit: Sanman Promotions

Press Release: June 3, 2019 By Sanman Promotions – Sanman boxer Richie Mepranum now W34 KO9 L7 D1 has just captured the IBF Pan Pacific Super Bantamweight Belt as he beats Chinese titleholder Sen Chen W11 KO2 L2 D0 in a fight held at the Wynn Palace in Macau, China. (Sunday, June 2^nd) Mepranum who appeared to be in a terrific condition used his superior experience and ring generalship to claim the unanimous decision victory. It was a needed notable comeback for the Filipino having suffered a recent three fight losing streak against Aarthur Villanueva, Luis Nery and Carlos Cuadras.

Mepranum was ecstatic about the victory. “I felt so down in my career and this win is what I badly need. I feel rejuvenated with my new team at Sanman. I admit having neglected myself during training thus the losing streak I suffered. But I’m back and I’m onfire. I will train even harder. I am still young and can come back to the top rankings. I want to thank Sanman through my manager Jim Claude Manangquil for this very needed opportunity.”

For Sanman CEO Manangquil, “This is a good win for my team having lost the Ben Mananquil fight recently. I always know the true potential of Richie. We always believed in him. He just needed more focus and discipline. If he stays on the right track then he will soon contend again for a world title.”

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Sanman Promotions Used with permission.

For more information about Sanman Promotions and to watch the Sanman Live Boxing series please visit Sanman Promotions’ official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/SanmanPromotions.

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