Ruiz-Joshua II Final Press Conference Quotes

Press Release By DAZN – RIYADH, DECEMBER 4, 2019 – Andy Ruiz, Jr. and Anthony Joshua OBE addressed the media for the final time ahead of their Saturday rematch, a fight that has been lauded as the most significant heavyweight title fight in more than a decade.Ruiz vs. Joshua 2 will take place this Saturday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia at a purpose-built arena with an expected sold-out crowd of more than 15,000 fans. The fight is available exclusively on DAZN in the United States with the main card beginning at 12 p.m. ET and the main event expected to commence shortly after 3:30 p.m. ET. 

Credit: Mark Robinson/Matchroom Boxing 

The rematch is a result of the shocking upset in June by Ruiz (33-1, 22 KOs) who became the first professional fighter to ever best Joshua (22-1, 21 KOs) after taking the fight on just five weeks’ notice. Their first fight is leading contender for 2019 ‘Fight of the Year’ honors for the unexpected drama that unfolded at Madison Square Garden. Ruiz’s IBF, WBA and WBO world heavyweight titles are at stake when the two men enter the ring this Saturday. 

Fans in the United States can sign up for a full year of DAZN for the low price of $99.99 to catch Ruiz vs. Joshua 2 and a highly-anticipated 2020 boxing schedule, or $20 for an action-packed December which also includes Daniel Jacobs vs. Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. on Dec. 20. 

Quotes from Today’s Press Conference

Andy Ruiz, current unified heavyweight world champion

On being prepared for Saturday: “It’s been a long three months of camp. I’ve been training really hard for this fight. Like June 1, I made history, and I think the importance is to remake history on Dec. 7 in Saudi Arabia. Not much to say, but I’m ready to rock and roll, I know AJ is going to come in with a different game plan. I know he’s prepared, motivated, being more cautious - I know he’s going to try and box me around. My job is to prepare for whatever comes my way.”

On whether he is motivated: “Of course, I don’t want these beautiful belts to go away. Remember I’ve been doing this since I was six, it’s finally paying off, and no way I’m going let these belts go. I’m going to die trying, and do anything that’s possible to get that victory. It’s been a long journey, long roller coaster in my life, and no way I’m going to let these go Dec. 7. Let the best man win.”

Anthony Joshua, former unified heavyweight world champion

On this being a great opportunity: “It’s interesting to be on this side of the table, as you said in my 16th fight, I challenged for the world title, challenged for the title again with Klitschko, then Parker, and now I’m challenging again, so this is my fourth title challenge in a short space of time. I’m used to being in this position, and even when you’re champion, I think Andy being a respected heavyweight he knows you have to have the challenge and mindset. All these quotes that these fighters come up with is reality, challenger mindset. I’ve said that previously when I had the belts around my waist. Now I’m speaking this into existence, this is my challenge and mindset. So I’m going back to my 16th fight, focused and determined on the goal.”

On feeling less pressure without the belts: “I’ve been boxing a while now, and when I came into boxing I didn’t really come to take part, I came to take over. I came with full force, fully committed. The focus has already been there, but never had a chance to reflect. It was European Championships, Olympics Championships, British Title, World Championships. I’m not here to put on show I’m here to win. I’ve been around the block for a short space of time, so you have to understand I’m experienced and know what I’m doing. Through reflection in my own time, me and Andy are very different, but like everyone in this room we have time. I just have to use my time and as soon as I got back from New York I got that commitment back, got into shape, I didn’t lose any heart, didn’t lose any fire in my belly, started hitting the heavy bag, preparing for this day. I’m actually really looking forward to it. No fear in my heart, no fear in my eyes. I’m just looking forward to putting on a show, and I’m confident.”

On how special a win will be: “I was asked if this will be a special moment and I said no because I know I belong there. It’s not special, I’ve been there, I know what I’m doing. When I regain those belts I will probably keep calm and stay focused. It’s not a time to celebrate, it’s time to keep that challenge, mindset and find the next target, so one by one I’m picking them off. I’ve been doing that since I started boxing and Ruiz is just my next target on my list.”

On fighting in Saudi Arabia: “This the Mecca of boxing I’m hearing. The real Mecca of boxing. I’m going to turn this into something special, a real event. As you can see we have put together a great undercard and a great show. I went to the venue, its perfect, perfectly designed, said my prayers, I took time to really embrace what’s going to happen Saturday. I’m just going in with confidence, and I want everyone to have that same confidence and have a great time.” 

Manny Robles, Andy Ruiz’s trainer

On defending the belts: “It’s been three months of preparation which is something we didn’t have for the last fight. I’m very pleased to say we had a great camp, perfect sparring partners, perfect time, perfect time to prepare to come up with a better game plan. Understand we have a very difficult task in front of us. We respect him, and we know he’s a great fighter. We’re going to be ready for the task. Andy has a had a great camp, and mentally and physically prepared for the challenge. We look forward to it. I hope no one walks away disappointed Saturday night.”

On being this being a different fight: “Absolutely it will be a different fight. We worked hard, we’re ready for the challenge. We’re taking this fight very seriously, we’ve been very tough on him, Andy knows it. He’s been focused, ready to go every day. We’re up to the challenge.”

Robert McCracken, Anthony Joshua’s trainer

On Joshua’s mindset going into this fight: “Anthony is in a much better place than last time at this stage, and I’m much happier with where he’s at. Everybody has said his training camp has gone really well. We’ve been training well out here in Saudi. Anthony has been training at the British Embassy, he’s got his own facility, and able to train diligently and hard. Listen we know how good Ruiz is, we know he’s a top heavyweight fighter, and he’s the champion. We’re totally confident, completely different mood going into this fight than back in New York. And I think you will see the real AJ for sure.”

On having more time to train: “For Andy Ruiz we had about five week notice for the last fight, at the same time Anthony’s opponent pulled out, so we had to restructure and change things, but with Ruiz’s ability that isn’t easy to do, but that isn’t a excuse. The right man won on the night, they both had 12 weeks to prepare for this fight, I think it’s a level playing field now. I think Anthony knows exactly what is in front of him, the sparring partners have been tailored to suit what Andy does. I think it you will see the real AJ on Saturday night and see a great performance.”

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Boxing

“We talked about our friend Neil Leifer who is here with us in Riyadh. Neil was on the canvas taking photos for the “Thrilla in Manila” and the “Rumble in Jungle” and on Saturday, he will be there for “Clash on the Dunes.” It will be another historic night for the sport of boxing and a heavyweight that will go down as one of the biggest ever. Andy Ruiz shocked the world in New York in June and now they enter this fight totally differently – Ruiz is the champion and Anthony Joshua is the challenger. This fight has everything.

“We were very close to going to Cardiff, and very close to taking this rematch back to Madison Square Garden in New York. We even looked at Mexico. I had finally made the decision to keep the fight in the UK but then I got the call from Saudi. I think I was quite rude at first actually, I told them not to waste their time because we were taking the fight to Cardiff. But the passion they had to bring this fight to Saudi Arabia was unmatched and within four or five days, we have an agreement to stage this fight here. Sometimes there was shock and criticism, but this was an absolutely wonderful decision. The hospitality from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been incredible. The fighters have had an amazing experience here with first class facilities being specifically built for them to prepare. The is a new dawn for the sport of boxing.

“We are thankful for our friends at DAZN. Just one year in, they have completely changed the face of boxing in America. Look at the names they have already brought to their wonderful platform: Anthony Joshua, Andy Ruiz, Oleksandr Usyk, Canelo Alvarez, Gennadiy Golovkin, and the list goes on and on. It is a wonderful time to be involved with the DAZN business and there’s such a bright future ahead for them.”

---

Watch the official weigh-in this Friday at 8 a.m. ET / 5 a.m. PT on live on DAZN’s YouTube.

Fight Season on DAZN rolls on this weekend with the highly-anticipated rematch between Andy Ruiz Jr. and Anthony Joshua. Don’t miss ONE NIGHT - the captivating oral history-style documentary that looks back at June 1, the night Ruiz Jr. pulled off the biggest boxing upset in decades by stunning then-undefeated heavyweight champion Joshua with a seventh-round TKO.

For more information, fans can follow DAZN’s U.S. social channels: @DAZNUSA on Facebook, @DAZN_USA for Twitter, and DAZN_USA for Instagram.                                                                                                           

About DAZN:

DAZN is the largest global sports streaming service. Since launching in 2016, DAZN has expanded to nine countries across four continents with its app available for download in the United States, Canada, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Japan and Brazil. In the U.S., DAZN has made its mark as an attractive alternative to pay-per-view within the combat sports industry. The service features big fights from Matchroom Boxing, Golden Boy Promotions, GGG Promotions, Bellator MMA, the World Boxing Super Series and Combate Americas, all for one affordable price, on any device – including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, games consoles and PCs. DAZN also features The Pat McAfee Show, live MLB action each day of the season with its daily show ChangeUp and a growing number of projects from DAZN Originals.

Material Courtesy of: DAZN/ Photo Courtesy of Mark Robinson/Matchroom Boxing Used with permission.

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

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

Ruiz-Joshua II Open Workout Quotes From Saudi Arabia

Press Release By DAZN – RIYADH, DECEMBER 3, 2019 – Ahead of the highly-anticipated rematch between Andy Ruiz, Jr. and Anthony Joshua OBE this Saturday on DAZN, all fighters from the stacked card worked out in front a lively crowd in Riyadh. In June, Ruiz (33-1, 22 KOs) spoiled the U.S. debut of then-undefeated heavyweight kingpin Joshua (22-1, 21 KOs), leaving New York as the unified IBF, WBA and WBO world heavyweight champion. The upset is considered one of the largest upsets in heavyweight boxing history, drawing comparisons to other historic heavyweight upsets such as Buster Douglas’ shocking victory over Mike Tyson and Hasim Rahman’s knockout win over Lennox Lewis.

Ruiz vs. Joshua 2 will be streamed exclusively on DAZN in the United States, in addition to being available globally on DAZN in Austria, Brazil, Canada, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain and Switzerland.

Fans can watch the Andy Ruiz and Anthony Joshua workouts now on DAZN’s YouTube channel. 

The full main card features four heavyweight fights including the much-anticipated world championship main event. Opening the card is Filip Hrgovic (9-0, 7 KOs) against Eric Molina (27-5, 19 KOs) followed by Dillian Whyte (26-1, 18 KOs) against Mariusz Wach (35-5, 19 KOs). In the evening’s chief support bout, Alexander Povetkin (35-2, 24 KOs) will square off against Michael Hunter (18-1, 12 KOs).

The full main card will begin on DAZN at 12 p.m. ET with the main event expected to commence shortly after 3:30 p.m. ET.

On fans loving him in Saudi Arabia: “It’s not going to be first or my last timing fighting here. They will see a lot more of Andy Ruiz here in Saudi Arabia.” 

Credit: Mark Robinson/ Matchroom Boxing 

On keeping the same hand speed: “No, I didn’t want show off too much on what we’re working on. I wanted to give a little mix there. We’ve been training really heard, working on different stuff, so the speed, the pressure, the angles, everything we’ve been working on, hopefully Dec. 7 we will get that victory.”

On what he has does differently this time around: “The same thing, training, making some adjustments, but we got all the tools, all the same things, so we’re focused mentally and ready for Dec. 7.”

On having a psychological advantage: “I could but I don’t want to underestimate any fighter because I respect every fighter that comes into the ring. We all risk our lives here to provide for our loved ones, so I’m just excited for Saturday to have a really good fight.”

On confidence getting another KO: “I’ll never predict a KO, but if it comes it comes, I’m just prepared to win and use all the tools I have and take advantage of being here.” 

On being proud of bringing the belts to Saudi Arabia: “I’m really proud. I’ve been working really hard my entire life to become the first Mexican heavyweight champion of the world. I came a long way, been through a lot of obstacles in my life. I just thank God, and I’m really excited to be here. Everybody please tune-in Dec. 7 this Saturday in Saudi Arabia. Get your app. Check out the channel on DAZN. Let’s do it baby, we’re going make history again!”

Now)

On his preparations: “It’s been about being confident, about knowing my capabilities. I’ve had a great training camp, I am well prepared, and ready to showcase my skills.” 

Credit: Mark Robinson/ Matchroom Boxing 

On what change we will see Saturday night: “I’m forever changing, that’s what training camp is about, evolution, like night and day. I shed the skin from last time, re-built myself, and all I’m doing is going to win, that’s what I’m focused on.”

On looking to have more speed in this fight: “I’m quick anyway. I’m not looking for anything except the win, that’s the objective. It’s about speed, it’s not about nothing else, the objective is just to win, win, win.” 

On how much Andy Ruiz had been on his mind since the first fight: “He’s been on my mind five weeks prior to June 1 because that’s when he came in as my replacement, and he will be on my mind forever. If Andy Ruiz is dedicated to the game we will see each other a third time down the line as well. This won’t be the last time I see Andy Ruiz in the ring.”

On a third match with Andy Ruiz: “Yes because I think we make for good fights. I think there will definitely be a knockout, and people want to see bloodshed and a knockout. I think we will see each other a third time.” 

On getting the victory: “If God calls it that’s what’s going to happen. I feel it in my heart, and believe in myself, so yeah I’ll be victorious. Shout out to all of my sparring partners for preparing me. You are going to see fireworks on Saturday. This is an important fight and like I said, this fight isn’t going 12 rounds.” 

FIGHT WEEK SCHEDULE

  

Wednesday, December 4

Undercard Press Conference

8 a.m. ET/5 a.m. PT

Main Event Press Conference – Streaming Live on DAZN’s YouTube

10 a.m. ET/7 a.m. PT

Friday, December 6

Official Weigh In – Streaming Live on DAZN’s YouTube

8 a.m. ET/5 a.m. PT

---

Fight Season on DAZN rolls on this weekend with the highly-anticipated rematch between Andy Ruiz Jr. and Anthony Joshua. Don’t miss ONE NIGHT - the captivating oral history-style documentary that looks back at June 1, the night Ruiz Jr. pulled off the biggest boxing upset in decades by stunning then-undefeated heavyweight champion Joshua with a seventh-round TKO.

For more information, fans can follow DAZN’s U.S. social channels: @DAZNUSA on Facebook, @DAZN_USA for Twitter, and DAZN_USA for Instagram.                                                                                                           

About DAZN:

DAZN is the largest global sports streaming service. Since launching in 2016, DAZN has expanded to nine countries across four continents with its app available for download in the United States, Canada, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Japan and Brazil. In the U.S., DAZN has made its mark as an attractive alternative to pay-per-view within the combat sports industry. The service features big fights from Matchroom Boxing, Golden Boy Promotions, GGG Promotions, Bellator MMA, the World Boxing Super Series and Combate Americas, all for one affordable price, on any device – including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, games consoles and PCs. DAZN also features The Pat McAfee Show, live MLB action each day of the season with its daily show ChangeUp and a growing number of projects from DAZN Originals.

Material Courtesy of: DAZN/Photos Courtesy of: Mark Robinson/Matchroom Boxing Used with permission.

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

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

WEIGHTS FOR BRAWL AT THE MALL 14

Press Release: December 1, 2019 By Sanman Promotions – Sanman undefeated bantamweight prospect Judy Flores (W8 KO4 L0 D0) weighed in within the bantam limit tipping on the scales at 115 pounds. Meanwhile, his opponent Francis Jay Diaz (W8 KO1 L2 D0) came in a pound over weighing 119 pounds. The bout is set for ten rounds in the main event of fourteenth episode of Brawl at the Mall tomorrow afternoon December 2, 2019 at the Robinsons Mall Atrium in General Santos City. Below are the weigh-in results for the supporting bouts:  

Credit: Sanman Promotions 

Jhunrille Castino         122lbs        10 Rds Super Bantamweight

Jerry Pabila             121lbs

Jhunrick Carcedo         144 lbs        8 Rds Welterweight

Jose Ocampo             141 lbs

Undercards

Mark Antonio             118 lbs        8 Rds Bantamweight

Arnold batingal         117 lbs

Guillame Lorenzo         135 lbs        6 Rds Lightweight

Kim Lindog 132lbs

Adam Abdulhamid         149 lbs        6 Rds Welterweight

Richard Betos             144 lbs

Richie Mepranum         122 lbs        6 Rds Featherweight

Jetly Purisima             120 lbs

Michael Casama         127lbs        6 Rds Super Featherweight

Jun Eraham 128lbs

RV Feniega             115 lbs        4 Rds Super Flyweight

Mike Bacalso             115 lbs    

Ian Sampan             130lbs        4 Rds    Super Featherweight

Jessie Boyles             130lbs

Admission to the event is free and Sanman Promotions is inviting all local boxing fans within the City and its neighboring towns to come and witness non-stop boxing action featuring your rising local boxing prospects.

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

For more information about Sanman Promotions and to watch the Sanman Live/Brawl At The Mall 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. 

CANOY TO FACE JOYI FOR IBO 105 LBS WORLD TITLE

Credit: Sanman Promotions

Press Release: November 30, 2019 By Sanman Promotions – It’s another world title fight for a Filipino as Joey Canoy (W15 KO8 L3 D1) faces former minimumweight world champion Nkosinathi Joyi (W28 KO19 L5 D1) for the IBO World Minimumweight belt on December 16, 2019 at the ICC Hotel,  East London South Africa.

Canoy has been on knockout winning streaking recently beating Ryan Makiputin and Rodel Tejares. Meanwhile, Joyi’s latest win was a unanimous decision against Nhlanhla Tyirha for the WBO African light flyweight title. Joyi has the experience advantage having faced former world champions including two TKO losses to our Filipino champion Rey Loreto.

Canoy could not contain his excitement on the fight. “I’ve been training for two months now and am in perfect shape for the fight. This is my biggest fight. It’s an opportunity I will grab and I will do everything to bring home that IBO belt. Thank you so much Sanman for this opportunity”, Canoy said.

For Sanman CEO Jim Claude Manangquil, “It’s another break for Canoy to be a world champion. I know he will give it his all to get that belt. For me, he is the best minimumweight in the country right now and has everything it will take to beat Joyi.”

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.

Has Wilder Silenced His Critics?

Throughout Boxing history there are countless stories of fighters who are able to achieve a level of dominance as world champions throughout their careers. From Joe Louis, to Rocky Marciano, to fighters like Muhammad Ali, Larry Holmes, and Mike Tyson to name a few, there have been several dominant champions who each made their footprint in the history of the sport. All of these fighters each had lengthy reigns atop Boxing’s Heavyweight division.

As much as Boxing history is filled with stories of dominant champions, so too are stories of the criticism each champion had to deal with. All of the former Heavyweight world champions mentioned at the beginning of this column though dominant in their respective reigns as champion, were also not immune from criticism.

While criticism can range from the average fan, to the knowledgeable fan, to those who cover the sport like yours truly, to even fellow fighters, most dominant world champions throughout the entire sport of Boxing deal with some form of criticism at some point in their reign. Enter WBC Heavyweight world champion Deontay Wilder. 

Wilder's rise to Heavyweight dominance is one that has been chronicled extensively by this observer here on The Boxing Truth® as well as in other media outlets. Despite a career knockout percentage of well over 90%, Wilder has also not been immune from criticism. In his case, most of the criticism has been rooted in his not facing s significant test for several years and once he was tested, more questions being asked than were answered.

Thus far only two tests have been provided to the reigning WBC Heavyweight world champion that created both questions and debate about Wilder. This observer is referring to his bouts with Luis Ortiz and undefeated former Heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury. Two fighters who each were able to give Wilder more difficulty than any previous opponent. Although the outcome of Wilder’s encounter with Fury, a split decision draw remains a topic of debate throughout the Boxing community, his encounter with Ortiz also left questions for the champion to answer.

As most Boxing Aficionados know, when Ortiz met Wilder in March of last year he became the first fighter to provide the champion with a stern test. Although Ortiz would suffer three knockdowns over the course of the fight and would ultimately be stopped in the tenth round, he gave a solid account of himself in defeat. For the first time in Wilder’s career not only did he have to overcome being hurt for the time, but also had to overcome what appeared to be a deficit on the scorecards to stop an opponent late in the fight. Though Wilder would experience similar circumstances in his fight with Tyson Fury in December of last year in getting two knockdowns to retain his world championship by a draw, Ortiz’ performance against him was deserving of a rematch.

The rematch would come on November 23^rd at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, NV. In previewing this fight, I stated that Wilder needed to avoid the straight left hand that Ortiz was able to land frequently in the first fight. The second encounter began at a measured pace and  in some ways it resembled the first fight. Ortiz found success in landing his straight left hand both to the head and body of Wilder.

Wilder meanwhile, was consistent in throwing his jab and landing his right hand on Ortiz. Although both fighters executed their offense sparingly, it seemed that Ortiz had a slight advantage due largely to his waiting for the right opportunity to come forward and land his left hand. It can be a difficult task to determine who has the upper hand in a fight that is fought in the way that several rounds in this rematch were, but often it will come down to who is able to execute their offense in w way to stand out from their opponent. For a portion of this fight, that fighter was Luis Ortiz in this observer’s eyes. 

While the aspect of statistics were not overwhelmingly in favor of either fighter, it appeared as the fight entered round seven that Deontay Wilder was facing a deficit on the scorecards. The champion however, would show that in Boxing and by extension all combat sports sometimes all a fighter needs is one punch/strike to end matters.

In the closing seconds of round seven, Wilder connected with a flush straight right hand to the head head sending Ortiz down on his back on the canvas. Although Ortiz tried to beat the count, he was unable to do so and the champion successfully retained his crown. Wilder’s tenth successful title defense of his WBC world championship puts him among a select group of fighters to have compiled a double-digit number of successful defenses. 

In scoring his second knockout win over Luis Ortiz, Wilder may have begun to answer some of his critics. From this observer’s perspective, Wilder did accomplish his goal of answering questions that surfaced against the first fighter to give him a test by removing doubts by producing a more conclusive outcome the second time around.

If there is one thing that should be a concern going forward comes from comments Wilder made in an interview with the Fox Sports broadcast team following the fight where he eluded to not needing to win rounds due to having the punching power to end a fight at any time. Although Wilder’s record speaks for itself in scoring knockouts in forty-one of his forty-two career wins cannot be disputed, a mentality of not needing to score points to win fights is a potentially dangerous one to have.

In some ways however, it does remind me of stories I have heard and read through the years of a similar mentality that George Foreman had during his first reign as a Heavyweight world champion in the 1970’s. Much like Wilder, Foreman was noted for his punching power and was not known as a fighter who tried to win fights by scoring decisions. Although Foreman met his match when he was defeated in October 1974 by Muhammad Ali, when Foreman began his comeback in 1987 he was w more tactical fighter and while he still maintained the punching power that struck fear in many Heavyweights, he also developed the poise to win rounds in order to score decision wins when he had to.

This is something Wilder should keep in mind as he moves forward. It appears Wilder’s eleventh title defense will come in February 2020 against the only other opponent to put a scare into the champion, Tyson Fury in what will be the third rematch of Wilder’s career. Even though Wilder’s power was able to score two knockdowns of Fury late in their fight in December of last year, he should keep in mind that without those two knockdowns, Fury would have won a decision over him. With this in mind, the champion should keep in mind that the ability to win rounds is important. Even if a fighter is blessed to have the punching power that Wilder has, sometimes a fighter needs to score points in order to win a fight. Simply put, sometimes the opportunity to score a knockout will not be there.

“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

Happy Thanksgiving

We would like to wish our readers a Happy and safe Thanksgiving holiday. New material discussing the recent Heavyweight world championship rematch between Deontay Wilder and Luis Ortiz will be released here on the website on Friday, November 29th. Stay tuned. “And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

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

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

Mundine-Parr: Combat Sports Next Curiosity

One of the biggest events in Combat Sports history was when two-division MMA world champion Connor McGregor, one of the biggest stars in not just the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), but in the entire sport of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) stepped out of his comfort zone to challenge future Hall of Famer Floyd Mayweather in the Boxing ring in August 2017. Although the fight was “A Curiosity” as this observer said prior to it and one that was heavily criticized by some fans and those inside Boxing, it did succeed as a Pay-Per-View attraction in generating 4.3 million buys at a near $100 price tag.

While the actual fight did surprise many including yours truly in being more than an event, the outcome was what many expected. Floyd Mayweather stopped Connor McGregor in the tenth round of a fight that did have periods where it was competitive. The fight may not have surprised many in terms of the outcome, but it did show that there is interest in seeing fighters from different primary combat sports disciplines squaring off against each other that in some ways conjures up memories of the original tournament format the sport of MMA was based on many years ago. Even though the sport of MMA has moved far beyond the days of one night tournament style competition, there remains the same “Curiosity “ of what would happen if two fighters from different primary disciplines squared off against each other.

Such an occasion will take place on November 30^th at  CBUS Stadium in Queensland, Australia as former IBO Middleweight world Boxing champion Anthony Mundine will face former multi-time world Kickboxing champion John Wayne Parr in a fight fought under traditional Boxing rules scheduled for ten rounds. This fight pits two of the top stars of Australian combat sports against each other under circumstances where much like Mayweather-McGregor the interest may be as much about the event as what will take place inside the ring.

For Anthony Mundine, this will be his first fight in exactly one year since being knocked out in the first round at the hands of former WBO Welterweight world champion Jeff Horn in November of last year. As some might recall in this observer’s coverage of that fight, Mundine was not able to offer much resistance as the former Middleweight world champion was knocked out in 1:36. At forty-three years old at the time of that loss, I frankly did not think Mundine, who has a record of 48-9, with 28 Knockouts, would be back in the ring as coincidentally his fight against Parr will come exactly one year later.

As for John Wayne Parr he has one advantage that Connor McGregor did not have prior to facing Floyd Mayweather. Parr does have Professional Boxing experience and will enter this fight with a record of 10-3, with all ten of those victories coming by knockout. Although Parr has never been stopped in his thirteen previous bouts as s pro boxer, his last bout in a professional Boxing fight was over sixteen years ago when he lost a twelve round unanimous decision to Sakio Bika, who would eventually go on to win a world championship.

Parr is more known for his success as a kickboxer under both traditional and Muay Thai formats where he has won world championships in multiple weight classes and various Kickboxing promotions including the ISKA and K-1 where he amassed a combined record of 99-33, with 46 Knockouts. When you factor in his thirteen bouts as a pro boxer, Parr has competed in one hundred-forty-five professional fights in his combat sports career. Although Parr has not competed professionally in Boxing in many years, he does know how to get an opponent out of there should the opportunity arise. Much like Mundine however, it is logical to ask at forty-three years old and after so many fights across two combat sports and three disciplines how much John Wayne Parr could have left to give as a fighter.

When yours truly was informed about this fight, several thoughts did come to mind. Obviously, I asked myself the same question in regard to both fighters, what do they have left to give? I also found myself as someone who spent several years of his career covering Boxing as an overseas correspondent for The Fist in Australia, and as someone who to this day tries to cover as much of the Australian Boxing scene as I can, legitimately wondering what may or may not happen when the two fighters square off, knowing what both are capable of in their respective primary disciplines, and having seen what both can do at their respective best.

The same “Curiosity” that tends to reel in fans ranging from the casual to the aficionado can indeed even intrigue those of us who cover combat sports full time. Speaking only for myself, even with all the negative things that can be associated with Boxing and by extension all combat sports, which unfortunately tends to get more attention than the good combat sports have to offer, this is one of the rare times in over two decades that there is no real analysis that this observer can offer because quite frankly, the reader’s guess is as good as mine as to what may or may not happen.  Although we obviously won’t know the answer until after Mundine and Parr meet, it definitely has me “Curious.” We will simply have to see what Anthony Mundine and John Wayne Parr have to offer on November 30^th.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

Mundine vs. Parr takes place on Saturday, November 30^th at CBUS Stadium in Queensland, Australia. The fight as well as a five fight undercard can been seen globally on FITE.TV for $24.99. FITE TV is available on mobile, tablet, and connected streaming devices/platforms/Smart TVs such as Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV. For more information about FITE TV including schedules, where to download the FITE app and how to install the app on your preferred streaming device please visit: www.FITE.TV

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

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

Reagan Dessaix Ready To Head To Austria For WBC Title Clash On December 7

Press Release: November 25, 2019 By Dragon Fire Boxing – Reagan Dessaix's wish of boxing abroad has been granted, as the highly-rated Australian light heavyweight heads to Austria on December 7 to face Austrian champion Mansur Elsaev. 

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

Elsaev has 10 wins via stoppage in his first 12 professional contests which have all resulted in victory for the Austrian based Russian. Elsaev now takes a step up in class as he takes on the tried and tested Reagan Dessaix who many are tipping for world titles in the coming years.

Australian Dessaix opened up on the opportunity of traveling to Central Europe and attempt to gatecrash the WBC world rankings, "Firstly I'd like to thank my manager Tony Tolj and all of my training team for getting me this opportunity and getting me prepared for the challenge that I face in Austria.

"I've had two good wins in my last two outings and I've shown that I am well beyond my years experience-wise and I believe that this will be a telling factor in the fight and I'm fully confident I will emerge victoriously and I will do it in style.

Dessaix has already held 5 titles a professional with the WBA, IBF, and WBC alongside winning the Australian national title and lost controversially to Blake Caparello. 'The President' discussed his professional journey so far and how that will effect his clash with Elsaev.

Dessaix stated, "I have a lot of experience as a professional and have mixed it with some of the best in the world and I know when I did with Caparello as I believe I won that fight as do most of the Australian boxing public.

"I have operated at a much higher level than Elsaev and I believe that this will pay dividends in the fight. I believe I am a future world champion and I need to be beating opposition like this and then I can push through the world rankings and challenge for world titles.

"The light heavyweight division has the best champions in boxing in my opinion. I want to mix it with the best and the likes of Berterbiev and Kovalev who are some of the world's most elite fighters and that's where I'm aiming to be in boxing."

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

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

Smith Defeats Ryder

Undefeated WBA Super-Middleweight world champion Callum Smith scored s hard-fought twelve round unanimous decision over mandatory challenger John Ryder on Saturday night at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, England. Despite being at a height disadvantage, the 5’9 Ryder brought the fight to the 6’3 Smith from the outset. Smith appeared to have trouble getting into a rhythm early due to the challenger’s bobbing and weaving. In short, this was a story of two different fights. When the combat was confined to the center of the ring the advantage generally went to the champion Smith, but when Ryder was able to execute his offense in spurts and force the fight on the inside where Smith was being pushed back, it was his advantage. Several of the rounds in this fight were close due largely to the ebb and flow seeming to turn frequently between the two fighters where who got the nod came down to specific moments in a round. Both fighters suffered cuts as a result of clashing heads throughout the fight, but this would prove to be s non-factor in the bout.

As the fight progressed, Ryder’s aggression and effective work to the champion’s body began to frustrate Smith. While Smith was the more effective fighter when he was able to keep the fight in the center of the ring and was most effective with his right hand throughout, it became a question as is often the case in close fights of what a judge prefers in their own criteria of scoring based on clean punching, effective aggressiveness, ring generalship, and defense that would ultimately determine who would win this fight. At the end of the twelve round world championship bout, Callum Smith had done enough in the three official judges eyes to earn the unanimous decision victory. Official scores were 116-112 (On two scorecards), and 117-111 all in favor of Callum Smith. Callum Smith advances to 27-0, with 19 Knockouts. John Ryder falls to 28-5, with 16 Knockouts.

Also on this card:

In a Lightweight bout former European Jr. Lightweight champion and former world title challenger James Tennyson scored an eleventh round stoppage over Craig Evens. James Tennyson advances to 26-3, with 23 Knockouts. Craig Evens falls to 20-3-2, with 3 Knockouts.

A Jr. Welterweight bout billed as an elimination bout for a shot at the World Boxing Council (WBC) world championship between contenders Tom Farrell and Sean Dodd ended in a four round technical decision after four rounds due to an accidental clash of heads that caused a deep gash over the right eye of Farrell. The fight saw several exchanges between the two fighters, who each had periods of effectiveness, but at the time of the stoppage, it was Dodd who appeared to be getting the better of the action. At the time of the stoppage, Dodd was ahead on two official scorecards giving him the win. Sean Dodd advances to 17-5-1, with 3Tom Farrell falls to 17-3, with 5 Knockouts. 

In a battle for the vacant Commonwealth Cruiserweight championship, Chris Billiam-Smith scored an impressive fifth round knockout over Craig Glover. Both fighters had their moments early on, but Billiam-Smith’s harder punches gradually allowed him to take control. In round four, a flush right hand to the head set off a barrage of punches that sent Glover down. Although Glover was able to survive the round, the punishment continued in round five as Billiam-Smith scored two more knockdowns of Glover leading to s stoppage at 1:45 of the fifth round. Chris Billiam-Smith advances to 10-1, with 9 Knockouts. Craig Glover falls to 10-3, with 8 Knockouts.

Jr. Middleweight Anthony Fowler scored a workmanlike ten round decision over previously undefeated Harry Scarff. Fowler was in control from the opening bell and scored a knockdown of Scarff with a short left hook to the head in round nine on the way to a convincing victory.Anthony Fowler advances to 11-1, with 8 Knockouts. Harry Scarff falls to 8-1, with 1 Knockout.

Light-Heavyweight Thomas Whitaker-Hart remained unbeaten by scoring a fifth round stoppage of Josip Perkovic. Whitaker-Hart used his tall 6’0 frame to pressure Perkovic. A combination in round five by Whitaker-Hart caused Perkovic to turn his back causing a stoppage at 1:26 of round five. Thomas Whitaker-Hart advances to 4-0, with 2 Knockouts. Josip Perkovic falls to 6-11-1, with 3 Knockouts.

Jr. Welterweight Steven Smith scored a six round decision over Jonny Phillips. Steven Smith advances to 28-4, with 15 Knockouts. Jonny Phillips falls to 5-3, with 2 Knockouts.

Also in the Jr. Welterweight division, Tom Aitchison scored the second win of his career by scoring a four round decision over Matija Petrinic. Tom Aitchison advances to 2-0, with 0 Knockouts. Matija Petrinic falls to 1-2, with 0 Knockouts.

Undefeated Lightweight Marcos Molloy scored a four round decision over Jamie Quinn. Marcos Molloy advances to 2-0, with 0 Knockouts. Jamie Quinn falls to 6-95-2, with 0 Knockouts.

Although Callum Smith was given a more difficult fight against John Ryder than some had expected, he still did what he needed to do to retain his world championship. From this observer’s perspective, I felt Ryder did enough to win the fight as I scored it eight rounds to four in his favor or 116-112 in points. It was the kind of fight where depending on one’s perspective scores and opinion as to who won it can vary. As for what’s next for Callum Smith, he remains in good position to potentially secure lucrative fights in either the 168lb. Super-Middleweight or 175lb. Light-Heavyweight divisions. Though this was not the showcase type of performance some may have thought it would be for Smith, he did get the win and sometimes that is all a fighter can do.

Could Callum Smith be s potential opponent for the likes of Billy Joe Saunders and Saul “Canelo” Alvarez in 2020? In Boxing just about anything is possible, but after a hard fight with John Ryder, who will remain a contender and who’s stock goes up in defeat, Smith has earned a chance to rest and think about what he will do next.

“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

Ortiz To Face Solomon On December 13TH

Press Release: By DAZN – INDIO, CALIF. (Nov. 22, 2019): Vergil Ortiz Jr. (14-0, 14 KOs) will look to end the 2019 year with another spectacular knockout win when he defends his WBA Gold Welterweight Title against Brad “King” Solomon (28-1, 9 KOs) in a 12-round fight. The event will take place Friday, Dec. 13 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. and will be streamed live as part of fight season on DAZN.  

Credit: Golden Boy Promotions 

“We’re absolutely proud of what Vergil Ortiz Jr. has been able to accomplish in his young career,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “That’s why we’re ending the year with him in an exciting main event fight on DAZN. The 147-pound division is one of the most competitive and popular divisions in boxing, so another knockout win will put this young talent on the path to very big fights in 2020.”

Since debuting as a professional in 2016, Ortiz Jr. knocked out every opponent in sight. The native of Grand Prairie, Texas, who has roots in Michoacan, Mexico, will return after passing the toughest test of his career with flying colors: a sixth-round stoppage victory against former world title challenger Antonio “Relentless” Orozco earlier this year. This young man is excited to return to Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, the place where he made his professional debut over three years ago.

“Fantasy Springs has a special place in my heart,” said Vergil Ortiz Jr. “I made my pro debut there in July 2016. Knowing I’m headlining there is motivating me to show my fans out there how much I have improved over the years. I’m also happy because an event like this shows that I’m on the right path. Everything is going as it should be. I’ve seen Brad Solomon’s record. I’ve seen that he’s beaten Adrian Granados and Ray Robinson, so you have to be pretty skilled to beat people like them. I don’t know how this fight ends, but you can all expect a great fight.”

Solomon is a 36-year-old contender of Lafayette, Lousiana who was a standout amateur boxer before debuting as a professional in 2008. Aside from winning several Golden Gloves titles, Solomon also possess an amateur win over Javier Molina. As a professional, he as defeated tough fighters such as Freddy “The Rail” Hernandez and Adrian “El Tigre” Granados. Solomon will look to put is career back on track to a world title if he can get past Ortiz Jr.

“Vergil Ortiz Jr. is a great young prospect,” said Brad Solomon. “It’s going to be a good matchup. I’ve been out of the ring for about a year, so I have to come back and beat this young fighter. I have to show everyone in the welterweight division that I’m still here.”

Also, Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins, Golden Boy Business Partner and Hall of Famer, will be the special VIP guest for this event. Hopkins will be in attendance for this event to meet fans, sign autographs and take pictures inside the Fantasy Springs Special Events Center. The meet-and-greet is open to the public with the purchase of a ticket to the event.

In the co-main event, Alberto “Explosivo” Machado (21-2, 17 KOs) of San Juan, Puerto Rico will make his highly anticipated return in a 10-round fight. Machado will officially make his debut at 135 pounds after losing his WBA Super Featherweight World Title against Andrew “El Chango” Cancio. Machado will look to make a campaign for a world title in this new division.

Erik Bazinyan (23-0, 17 KOs) of Quebec, Canada will defend his NABA Super Middleweight World Title in a 10-round clash. Bazinyan is inching closer to a world title with each battle, and he’ll look to maintain his top contender status with an impressive win to close out the year. Opponents for Machado and Bazinyan will be announced shortly.

Golden Boy is also proud to announce two high-level matchups that are sure to produce fistic fireworks.

Alexis “Lex” Rocha (14-0, 9 KOs) of Santa Ana, Calif. will defend his WBC Continental Americas Welterweight Title in a 10-round bout against Michael “The Artist” Perez (25-3-1, 11 KOs) of Newark, N.J.

Luis Feliciano (13-0, 8 KOs) of Milwaukee, Wis. will defend his NABF Super Lightweight Title against Herbert “Ace” Acevedo (16-2-1, 6 KOs) of Garden City, Kansas in a 10-round fight.

Genaro “El Conde” Gamez (9-1, 6 KOs) of San Diego, Calif. will open the night in an eight-round lightweight clash.

Ortiz vs. Solomon is a 12-round fight for the WBA Gold Welterweight Title presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate, "THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING," and Hennessy "Never Stop. Never Settle." The event will take place Friday, Dec. 13 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. and will be streamed live on DAZN. 

Tickets for the event go on sale Friday, Nov. 22 at 10:00 a.m. PT are priced at $25, $35 and $45. Tickets will be available at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com. 

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. 

Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZN_USA. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZNUSA/. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZN_USA. Follow the conversation using #OrtizSolomon 

Material Courtesy of: DAZN/ Photo Courtesy of: Golden Boy Promotions Used with permission.

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