Alvarez-Saunders: The Road To Super-Middleweight Supremacy Continues

 

On Saturday, May 8^th the Boxing world will focus on AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX for one of the most anticipated fights of 2021. The Super-Middleweight unification clash between WBA/WBC Super-Middleweight champion Saul “Canelo” Alvarez and undefeated two-division world champion Billy Joe Saunders, the current WBO Super-Middleweight world champion. A unification bout, which will be broadcast globally by digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN, that frankly represents a dangerous style match up for Alvarez, the fighter regarded as the top star in the entire sport in the eyes of many.

 

For the fighter known to fans simply as “Canelo”, this fight will be his third bout in six months after defeating previously undefeated WBA world champion Callum Smith last December in a bout where the vacant WBC world championship in the 168lb. Super-Middleweight division. Although it is rare to see a fighter of Alvarez’ level compete as often as this recent stretch in the present day of the sport of Boxing, from an old-school standpoint, the more active a fighter is regardless of their standing in the sport, theoretically the better they are conditioned and prepared for marquee fights such as this.

 

In his last bout in what was his first title defense of his unified portion of the Super-Middleweight world championship, Alvarez scored a third round stoppage of WBC number one mandatory challenger Avni Yildirim in Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, FL. A bout where frankly Alvarez did not face much resistance and one where he knocked Yildirim down before Yildirim quit on his stool at the conclusion of the third round. Although many Boxing fans criticized Alvarez for taking the bout against Yildirim based on an obvious skill difference between the two, fights such as that one served the purpose as both one that allows a star of the sport to stay busy in between marquee bouts as well as fulfill mandatory defense obligations of the sanctioning organizations, whose world championships Alvarez holds, which have to be fulfilled on an annual basis.

 

While Alvarez’ victory over Yildirim did not amount to much more than the aforementioned criteria, it also served as an unofficial “Tune-up” for the next marquee fight to come in the form of undefeated two-division world champion Billy Joe Saunders. Saunders, who will enter the fight unbeaten with a record of 30-0, with 14 Knockouts compared to Alvarez’ record of 55-1-2, with 37 Knockouts, has won world championships in the 160lb. Middleweight division as well as the WBO Super-Middleweight crown he currently holds.

 

A southpaw with an awkward and elusive style that has an emphasis on both lateral movement and hand speed, several of the marquee fighters in both the Middleweight and Super-Middleweight divisions have opted against fighting against Saunders. The reason for this has seemed to be that from a business perspective, Saunders has been a high risk/low reward option based on his having a style that is not always crowd-pleasing, but more specifically having a style that has presented a puzzle that opponents have yet to solve. 

 

Although Saunders has victories over notable opponents including Willie Monroe Jr, his last bout against longtime contender Martin Murray in December of last year, and former two-time IBO Super-Middleweight world champion Chris Eubank Jr., perhaps the most notable of his thirty career wins came against former WBO Middleweight world champion David Lemieux in December 2017. A bout that took place in Lemieux’ home country of Canada. Despite being at a disadvantage in terms of crowd support and in a scenario where one might have assumed that he might not have gotten a fair shake in terms of scoring, Saunders dominated a fighter in Lemieux, who is a “Knockout Artist” that was also a potential opponent for Saul Alvarez for a time, in earning a wide twelve round unanimous decision over him.

 

In some ways, the scenario the British-born and based Saunders found himself in for that bout against Lemieux may turn out to be the ideal preparation as he now prepares for the biggest fight of his career against the Mexican-born Alvarez, who will have sizable crowd support in AT&T Stadium from his rabid fanbase. The style match up between the two also provides some intrigue.

 

One could argue that stylistically this bout could be the most difficult bout for Alvarez since his September 2013 bout against Floyd Mayweather, a bout that to date remains the lone career defeat in Alvarez’ career. This is based on both Mayweather and Saunders being fighters with elusive styles that mixes defense with deceptive hand speed and power that many opponents have not been able to have consistent success in landing offense. While one could also argue that Alvarez has used that loss to Mayweather as not only motivation, but also as a way to improve on what Mayweather was able to take advantage of as well as his overall skillset, Saunders though having a different type of elusive style than Mayweather, appears to be the type of fighter that could give Alvarez similar problems.

 

The key to this fight in this observer’s eyes is whether Saunders can keep Alvarez from being able to get into a consistent rhythm. Even though both Alvarez and Saunders are boxer/punchers, Alvarez could have an advantage in terms of punching power. An asset that Saunders has here at least going into this fight has been his ability to hit and not be hit. Another aspect of Saunders’ style that has been frustrating for opponents is he can also switch between his base southpaw stance and an orthodox stance, which can make it even more challenging for an opponent to find their rhythm.

 

Saunders must be elusive from the outset and tactical. In simple terms, he needs to set the tempo of the combat, look to set traps, and take advantage of what openings Alvarez might leave him. While this is an approach that Saunders has shown that he can execute well throughout his career, a danger that might be present in this fight is the potential for Saunders to become complacent. In that if he is able to have success in this fight and find himself in a position where he is ahead by a reasonable margin or though it might seem on the scorecards, it will be interesting to see what might happen if after seeing success, if Saunders will choose to stand and trade punches with Alvarez. A decision some previous opponents have made that have proven to be a big mistake.

 

While Saunders, who stands 5’11 and has a seventy-one inch reach will have a three inch height advantage and a one inch reach advantage over Alvarez, Alvarez has shown particularly in his bouts against Rocky Fielding and Callum Smith the ability to neutralize an opponent’s height and reach. Although it is a task that can be easier said than done, Alvarez must find a way to neutralize Saunders’ ability to use lateral movement, must cut the ring off, and get on the inside of Saunders. When Alvarez has been able to get on the inside of his opponents, he has shown that he can execute a consistent body attack that has at times been devastating.

 

In terms of what the odds for this fight are, it is also interesting. According to the latest odds analysis from SportsBettingDime.com, Alvarez is favored by a wide margin. That said, there is some variation in the betting market. Canelo is as short as -800 and as long as -675. Saunders ranges from +425 to +550. His most optimistic odds (i.e. +425) give him a 19% chance to win, while his longest odds only allow the Briton a 15.4% chance.

 

The odds are both an indication of Alvarez’ overall popularity as well as standing in the sport. Whether or not the odds will match up with the style matchup between the two and indeed favors Alvarez remains to be seen.

 

Cinco De Mayo weekend in the sport of Boxing has traditionally produced some of the sport’s most memorable battles. If the intriguing battle Alvarez-Saunders appears to be on paper manifests into a great fight inside the ring, it will be the latest among memorable Boxing events to take place on Cinco De Mayo weekend. We will see who emerges victorious on Saturday night.

 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

 

 

Alvarez vs. Saunders takes place on Saturday, May 8^th at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX. The entire card can be seen globally (Excluding Mexico) on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN beginning at 8PM ET/5PM PT (U.S. Time). 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. 

 

In Mexico, the bout can be seen on TV Azteca. Please visit www.TVAzteca.com for channel and start time in your area,

 

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

 

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Campos Cracks WBO Top 6 Targets Nakatani

 

Press Release: May 6, 2021 By Dragon Fire Boxing – Chilean Superstar flyweight Andres Campos (10-0) is looking to make a push for championship honours in 2021. 

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

Campos has now moved to number 6 in the WBO and 13 in the WBAs World Flyweight ratings 

Chiles favorite son is targeting Japanese WBO champion Junto Nakatani and WBA champion Artem Dalakian. 

Due to the ongoing pandemic, Campos had not seen any action for nearly a year,  most recently on the 12th of March, fighting in his homeland of Santiago, Chile - with "The Crocodile" soundly defeating Ramon Velasquez (7-4). 

Despite the global upheaval Campos has not stopped honing his craft having taken part in training camps in the United States with the Australian Moloney twins, Andrew and Jason. 

"I'm ready for any fight my team puts in front of me. I have full faith in my promoter Nico (Nicholas Martinez) Dragon Fire Boxing Latino and my manager, the big bossman Tony (Tolj). Its tough here in Chile with COVID, I haven't fought since March and I can't wait to get back in the ring. I would like the WBO champion Nakatani or the WBA champion Artem Dalakian. I'm 25-years-old so I have some time and I will be patient," said Campos regarding his plans for the upcoming year. 

His manager, Tolj, went on to discuss the strategy for the Chilean flyweight ahead of 2021. 

"I have personally been on the ground floor since Andres’ third fight, he just gets better and better. He is a genuine rockstar in Chile and I'm proud he has remained very humble, especially during these difficult times with the pandemic. He hasn't fought for a little while, but he has probably done a couple of hundred rounds with Andrew and Jason (Moloney) in the states for their respective training camps," Tolj said.

 

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:wwe.facebook.com/DragonFireBoxing.

 

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

Heavyweight Saturday Thoughts

 

The month of May­ has traditionally been one of the most active in the sport of Boxing in a calendar year. Of course, last year Boxing much like the rest of the world saw many norms brought to a halt due to the ongoing global COVID-19 epidemic. This year however, there is at least a sense that things may get back to normal in due time as vaccines to combat the COVID-19 virus continue to be rolled out. As progress continues to hopefully move forward, the Boxing world much like the rest of sports have begun the process of trying to stage events in front of a limited number of spectators due to COVID-19 protocols.

 

May 2021 began with two Heavyweight bouts that each had a similar storyline of a former world champion going against a former world title challenger whose better days were thought to be behind them. The first of these two bouts took place at the Manchester Arena in Manchester, England where former WBO Heavyweight world champion Joseph Parker took on longtime contender and former world title challenger Dereck Chisora.

 

In previewing Natalie this fight, but also the second of the two Heavyweight bouts, which will be discussed later in this column, I stated that it would be a bout that in this observer’s view would come down to whether or not Chisora would be able to use his pressure style to walk down the boxer/puncher in Parker. As it would turn out, Chisora would make a statement almost immediately after the opening bell as he would quickly score a knockdown of the former world champion with an overhand right in the first ten seconds of the round. Although this was the definition of a “Flash Knockdown,” it did send an immediate signal that Chisora had come to fight and that this would not be as easy of a bout for Parker at some may have anticipated.

 

Following the quick knockdown in round one, I felt that Chisora executed an effective fight plan where he frequently pushed Parker back to the ropes and landed offense to the body and head. It was this approach with an emphasis on focusing a majority of his attack to Parker’s body that seemed to carry most of the first six rounds of the scheduled twelve round bout. It did not seem as it was a close fight throughout the first half based largely on not only the success Chisora was able to have, but also basic ring generalship and effective aggression in bringing the fight to Parker.

 

While Chisora was able to maintain a high pace throughout the entire fight, he did seem to fatigue as it progressed in this opened the door for Parker to make up some crucial ground on the scorecards in the middle and late rounds. Even though Parker did not seem to hurt Chisora throughout, his greater activity in the second half of the fight was such that it could sway opinion as to who had the upper hand. It should also not be overlooked that during the latter stages of the fight Parker was able to establish some distance between himself and Dereck Chisora. This differed significantly from how the fight was fought in the first half where Chisora consistently pressed forward and was able to walk Parker backward.

 

Although in the eyes of this observer I felt that Chisora had done enough to win the fight by a margin of nine rounds to three or 117-110 in points with an extra point for the knockdown in round one and feeling that Chisora won five of the first six rounds, it did not surprise me to see a close decision announced in this fight in it being a split decision. As I have often said over the years and unfortunately have frequent practice in saying whenever it is appropriate when talking about close fights, it will often come down to what a judge prefers in their own individual criteria based on clean punching, effective aggressiveness, ring generalship, and defense.

 

Even though I felt that this was a relatively simple fight to score in favor Chisora based on what I saw as effective aggression and seeming to land the harder punches, if one does not score the knockdown in the first round by a 10-8 margin in favor Chisora, there is an argument for this fight being closer as well as for Parker as having won it based on what he was able to do over the second half the fight. From my perspective in addition to Chisora’s effective aggression and ring generalship throughout the bout, I felt that he was very effective in using head movement to deflect a good portion of Parker’s offense and this is what I based my score on.

 

The official decision of a split decision in favor of Joseph Parker was not one that I felt was inadequate or as some fans often say was “A Conspiracy,” but I do feel especially given that many felt going into the fight that Chisora may be in the twilight of his career, a rematch may not be a bad idea based on how the fight was fought.

 

A fight that was quite similar to Parker-Chisora in terms of the storyline of a former world champion going against a longtime contender and former world title challenger that was thought to have seen better days is coincidentally the second Heavyweight bout that took place on what yours truly unofficially dubbed “Heavyweight Saturday.” I am referring of course to the encounter between former unified IBF/WBA/WBO/IBO Heavyweight world champion Andy Ruiz and former multi-time world title challenger Chris Arreola that occurred at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA in a bout that was the main event of a card promoted by the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) group of promoters and was broadcast in the United States on Fox Sports Pay-Per-View.

 

This venue in Carson, CA has seen many incarnations over the years in the form of name changes, so much so that this observer has referred to it on more than one occasion as “The Venue In Carson, CA.” The subject of naming rights for a stadium aside, the outdoor venue has become known for producing many memorable battles. Ruiz-Arreola proved to be the latest memorable battle.

 

Much like the circumstances Dereck Chisora found himself in going into his bout against Joseph Parker, Chris Arreola had been through a long career that has seen many wars and has the distinction of having challenged for a World Heavyweight championship on three separate occasions. Although Arreola has two more world title fights than does Chisora, the similarity between the two at this stage was that some felt he was a significant underdog compared to Ruiz, who was fighting for the first time since losing his unified portion of the Heavyweight crown in December 2019 in his rematch with the man he had taken the title from earlier that year, Anthony Joshua.

 

While I touched upon what could be viewed as a questionable business decision in putting this fight on pay-per-view given both the continued decline of the pay-per-view medium as well as the current state of the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, in reality this was not a bad style match up as both Ruiz and Arreola are offensive-minded fighters that do come to fight and the decision to stage the fight in Carson, CA was a smart decision given both fighters respective California roots as well as their respective fan bases.

 

Unlike the Parker-Chisora bout, which took place with no non-essential personnel in attendance, the Ruiz-Arreola event was able to have a limited number of fans in attendance under social distancing guidelines in accordance with COVID-19 protocols. A crowd of over 3, 900 were treated to a memorable and some might say surprising Heavyweight encounter.

 

Although much of the story going into the fight centered on Ruiz, his dropping nearly thirty pounds from his last bout where he lost his title back to Anthony Joshua, and the addition of trainer Eddy Reynoso in his corner, what did not get nearly as much focus including by yours truly was the adjustment Chris Arreola made in hiring trainer Joe Goossen to work in his corner as well as his coming in at the lightest weight of his career at the weigh-in prior to the fight of 228lbs. Despite having the reputation of a brawler, Arreola would also show new elements of technique and strategy that was unexpected.

 

What was a noticeable difference about Arreola’s approach was how disciplined he was in that he remained committed to a fight plan that had an emphasis on defense as well as lateral movement. Although he was at a disadvantage in terms of hand speed, which seemed to increase with Ruiz’ drop in weight, Arreola’s strategy gave him opportunities to land counter punches in the midst of exchanges of offense. It was during one such exchange in the second round that Arreola landed a short right hand on the top of Ruiz’ head that sent him down for only the second time in his career. 

 

Ruiz was clearly hurt by this blow. In some ways, it brought back memories of a similar exchange that resulted in the first time Ruiz was knocked down in the third round of his first fight against Anthony Joshua where he was caught by a short hook to the head in an exchange of punches. As most know, Joshua, who is a devastating finisher when he has an opponent hurt, approached Ruiz recklessly and ended up being knocked down himself moments later in what was one of the best rounds in Heavyweight Boxing in recent memory.

 

Knowing Arreola’s offense-first style, it was logical to expect him having hurt and knocked the former champion down to approach Ruiz in a similar fashion as Joshua had. Surprisingly, Arreola showed restraint and perhaps knowing what Ruiz was capable of in this type of situation, stuck with a tactical approach and this proved well for him as he continued to have sporadic success in landing hard shots particularly with the right hand that did get Ruiz’ attention.

 

 

An aspect that I feel ultimately worked against Arreola however, was, despite that success and the knockdown he was able to score, he was not able to limit Ruiz’ offensive output and as Ruiz found his rhythm, he gradually took control of the fight. What was an entertaining, yet tactical battle can be summed up as one fighter using his quicker reflexes to outwork an opponent that when he was able to land seemed to land the harder blows. Although Chris Arreola deserves all the credit in the world for fighting a completely different fight than one could expect and as a result looked like a new fighter than he had been throughout his entire career, his inability to nullify Ruiz from being able to get his punches off first and allowing himself to be outworked is what cost him the fight in a bout that I unofficially scored eight rounds to four or 116-111 in points for Ruiz.

 

The official decision of the twelve round bout was more lopsided in Ruiz’ favor in his winning a unanimous decision. While he did not take anything away from his opponent’s performance, the scoring of the three official judges infuriated Arreola, who lashed out in an explicit-filled tirade toward the official judges in a post-fight interview with Fox Sports’ Heidi Androl. 

 

It is understandable how Arreola, who, despite the loss, fought one of the best fights of his career could be angry at a decision that he felt he should have won. He likely did not do himself any good by venting his frustration in the explicit way he did and it will be interesting to see what response the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) might have given that they and other regulatory commissions around the world have taken disciplinary action against fighters who have responded in similar ways as Arreola did towards judges and other commission officials. 

 

Whether or not this could lead to a fine against Arreola or even a suspension remains to be seen. Prior to these two Heavyweight bouts there seemed to be a feeling that the two former world champions Joseph Parker and Andy Ruiz, who fought in December 2016 for the then vacant WBO Heavyweight world championship that Parker emerged victorious in what was a razor thin bout in terms of scoring, could have been headed towards a rematch as both fighters look to secure another opportunity at a world championship if they were able to get past Dereck Chisora and Chris Arreola respectively.

 

Coming out of these fights however, that were extremely competitive, an argument should be made that both Chisora and Arreola deserve rematches because many felt neither fighter had much chance and much like the similarities each man found himself in going into these f, they are similar going out in each man having put forth what should be considered as the best performances of their respective careers.  Something that should serve as another example for Boxing fans that you never know what to expect in the sport and especially in the Heavyweight division.

 

“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

 

 

ABC NEWS ENTERS THE RING WITH SPECIAL FOUR HOUR DOCUMENTARY SERIES ‘MIKE TYSON: THE KNOCKOUT’ DETAILING THE LIFE OF THE BOXING LEGEND

 

Press Release: May 3, 2021 By ABC News – Two-Part Primetime Event Chronicles Mike Tyson’s Climb, Crash and Comeback on Back-to-Back Tuesdays, May 25 and June 1 (8:00 – 10:00 p.m. ET), on ABC

 

 

ABC News announced today it will debut a special four hour documentary series on the life of boxing legend Mike Tyson. “Mike Tyson: The Knockout” will put viewers ringside for a main event that will chronicle the former champion’s climb, crash and comeback, from his difficult childhood to becoming undisputed world champion to his 1992 rape conviction and his personal struggles. Through the lens of his life’s extreme highs and lows, the two-part primetime event will examine some of the most pressing questions about resilience and reinvention. “Mike Tyson: The Knockout” will feature new interviews with actor and boxing enthusiast Rosie Perez, former President of HBO Sports Ross Greenburg, ESPN’s Jeremy Schaap, those in Tyson’s inner circle and more. It will also include exclusive ABC News archival material and previously unaired interview footage with Tyson, who reflects on what he has learned throughout his boxing career and his new outlook on life. “Mike Tyson: The Knockout” premieres on back-to-back Tuesdays, May 25 and June 1, (8:00 – 10:00 p.m. ET), on ABC. It can also be viewed the next day on demand and on Hulu. 

Credit: ABC News

 

“In addition to being an inspiring story of the perseverance and hard-won growth of one extraordinary person, Mike Tyson’s life and career are also relevant to the important collective self-reflection finally occurring in America,” said executive producer Geoffrey Fletcher.

 

Tuesday, May 25, 8:00 – 10:00 p.m. ET

“Mike Tyson: The Knockout” begins with Tyson’s youth and his transition from a bullied kid who, in a single instant, discovers his true power, which becomes the basis for the icon’s reputation as “The Baddest Man on the Planet.” Former trainers Bobby Stewart and Teddy Atlas and Joe Colangelo, longtime friend of legendary boxing trainer Cus D’Amato, describe Tyson’s time in and out of juvenile detention while D’Amato trains a young boy from Brooklyn to the edge of his boxing dream of heavyweight champion of the world. They discuss Tyson’s rise to fame after D’Amato’s death and his spiraling under the pressures of stardom, including his lifestyle of excess partying, his marriage to Robin Givens, his infamous 1988 Barbara Walters interview, including Given’s allegation of domestic abuse, and divorce. Former opponents Michael Spinks and Buster Douglas sit down for interviews and discuss their fights against Tyson, including Tyson’s win over Spinks to become the undisputed heavyweight champion and Tyson’s shocking first professional boxing loss to Douglas, who was a 42-to-1 underdog.

 

Tuesday, June 1, 8:00 – 10:00 p.m. ET

“Mike Tyson: The Knockout” continues with Tyson’s conviction and prison sentence for raping 18-year-old Desiree Washington, reviewing the cultural conversation that ensued throughout the trial as the public grappled with ideas around victimization and the fall of a hero. Tyson’s defense attorney James Voyles and special prosecutor Greg Garrison reflect on the trial nearly 20 years later. Tyson’s release from prison and his highly anticipated and celebrated re-entry into society is examined. The program also spotlights Tyson’s comeback in boxing and his bouts against Evander Holyfield, including the moment he bit Holyfield’s ear, as well as his addiction to cocaine, as he quickly became vilified and one of the most polarizing athletes in America. The show also touches on Tyson’s deep personal losses, including how he managed to move forward after the death of his daughter Exodus. It showcases an apologetic, middle-aged Tyson making amends for his regrets. The show culminates with previously unaired footage from an interview conducted by ABC News’ Byron Pitts to whom Tyson poignantly reflects on the man he is today.

 

“Mike Tyson: The Knockout” is produced by ABC News. Roxanna Sherwood serves as Senior Executive Producer. Academy Award winner Geoffrey Fletcher serves as an Executive Producer and the Director of Animation. Academy Award-nominated composer Terence Blanchard contributed an original score.

 

Material and Photo Courtesy of: ABC News Used with permission.

 

For more information about ABC News please visit: www.ABCNews.com.

 

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

 

DAZN TO DROP LIMITED COLLECTION OF NFTs AHEAD OF CANELO VS. SAUNDERS ON MAY 8

 Press Release: By DAZN – Engaging gamification to be integrated, with exclusive experiences and rewards unlocked based on the outcome of the championship fight

 

LONDON, April 30, 2021 ― DAZN, the leading global sports destination, will deliver the company’s first-ever non-fungible-tokens (NFTs), showcasing iconic moments from the world Super Middleweight unification blockbuster between Canelo Alvarez and Billy Joe Saunders on May 8, giving boxing fans a unique opportunity to be part of the action throughout fight week and beyond.  

Credit: DAZN 

 

The drop includes four collections of NFTs which are accompanied by real-life rewards, including never-before-sold memorabilia and exclusive boxing experiences. Most collections will offer both an Alvarez and Saunders edition, so fans can champion their winner before the opening bell, stake their claim of a potential upset and get behind the outcome of the fight. 

 

All auctions and sales will take place on OpenSea.io, the largest NFT marketplace. The first three collections will open on Saturday, May 8 at 7am EDT/12:00 BST until approximately 11pm EDT/04:00 BST before the ring walk. The remaining collection will be sold post-fight on Monday, May 10^th.

 

The four collections include:

 

Knockout: Legendary Edition (1 per fighter)

These exclusive, one-of-a-kind NFTs offer bidders a chance to own a permanent piece of Alvarez or Saunders’ career. The top bidder will receive: 

●      A one-of-a-kind NFT featuring a digital rendering of each fighter’s gloves 

●      A once-in-a-lifetime experience for two at the fighter’s next bout  

●      A pair of signed fight gloves from Canelo or Eddie Hearn

●      A personalized video from Canelo or Eddie Hearn

 

Tale of the Tape

On May 8, the Mexican king will clash with the WBO champ for Cinco de Mayo. The ‘Tale of the Tape’ assets will show the world how Alvarez and Saunders measure up on paper before the gloves go on. These NFTs are available in the following editions:

●      Gold Edition: 1 per fighter which will be accompanied by a pair of signed gloves from Canelo or Eddie Hearn and annual DAZN subscription (Auction)

●      Silver Edition: 50 per fighter which will be accompanied by a chance to unlock an annual DAZN subscription for all holders of the winning fighter’s NFTs, with one of those winning NFTs additionally unlocking a personalized video from Canelo or Eddie Hearn (Fixed price)

 

Prediction

Every round will count as the pound-for-pound king, Alvarez, takes a giant step in his quest to become undisputed. These assets are digital representations of each way the fight could end – KO or decision. Get the NFT for when you think the fight will end to unlock exclusive rewards. Buyers can go home with the following editions:

●      Gold Edition: 1 per round (Auction) which will be accompanied by a once-in-a-lifetime experience for two at the next Canelo fight for the holder of the NFT representing the round in which the fight ends

●      Bronze Edition: 100 per round (Fixed price) which will be accompanied by an annual DAZN subscription for the holders of the NFTs representing the round in which the fight ends

 

Fight Highlights

At the end of the night, only one fighter will be crowned the unified world Super Middleweight champion. These NFTs will commemorate that victory as collectible representations of the fight’s best moments including a 1 of 1 Legendary NFT of the winning moment and Gold and Silver Editions memorializing each fighter’s ring walk.

 

These editions will drop shortly after the fight on Monday, May 10 at a time to be announced shortly after the fight.

 

DAZN NFTs are presented in conjunction with Matchroom and will be available for purchase at DAZNBoxing.io beginning Saturday, May 8 at 7am EDT.

 

“We’re excited to bring NFTs to boxing, creating new touchpoints with consumers to amplify audience engagement around our events,” said Joseph Markowski, DAZN, EVP Global Platform & Revenue Innovation. “This initiative will help DAZN deliver value to our trusted partners and subscribers whilst also allowing the company to explore the new frontier of blockchain technology.”

 

“This NFT drop is next level for boxing,” said Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman. “One of the reasons we love working with DAZN is because they’re always looking to create new standards for not only boxing, but all sports. No other broadcaster is in the same position to create these unique assets around individual events.”

 

Canelo Alvarez will clash with Billy Joe Saunders in a WBC, WBA, WBO and world Super Middleweight unification blockbuster on May 8 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, live worldwide on DAZN (except Mexico).

 

Material and Photo Courtesy of DAZN Used with permission.

 

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

 

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

Edwards Defeats Mthalane To Win IBF Flyweight World Championship In London

 

Undefeated Sunny Edwards scored a dominant twelve round unanimous decision over longtime world champion Moruti Mthalane to win the IBF Flyweight world championship on Friday night at York Hall in London, England. Edwards implemented a strategy from the outset that emphasized lateral movement to keep the champion at distance where he could not get his punches off consistently. Although this fight did not have much in the form of drama, it was the definition of Boxing in that Edwards stayed disciplined all the way through the fight, got his punches off first and evading Mthalane’s offense. Simply put, Edwards hit and was not hit often in return in what was an outstanding performance to win a world championship in the 112lb. Flyweight division. Official scores were: 118-111, 120-108, and 115-113 in favor of Edwards. Sunny Edwards advances to 16-0, with 4 Knockouts. Moruti Mthalane falls to 39-3, with 26 Knockouts.

 

Also on this card:

 

Undefeated WBO number one Jr. Featherweight contender Michael Conlan scored a hard fought twelve round majority decision over WBO number nine rated contender Ionut Baluta. For twelve rounds, the two fighters engaged in a grueling give and take battle that followed one pattern throughout. Baluta throwing punches in volume and generally outworking Conlan, but Conlan being more accurate and seemingly landing the harder punches. While this was the pattern was consistent from the opening bell, as the fight progressed, Conlan was able to get some separation between himself and Baluta due to some effective body work that seemed to take some steam out of Baluta’s near relentless output. Official scores were 114-114 (Even) and, 115-114, 117-112 in favor of Conlan.  Michael Conlan advances to 15-0, with 8 Knockouts. Ionut Baluta falls to 14-3, with 3 Knockouts.

 

In a battle of unbeaten Jr. Middleweights in what was an elimination bout to determine a mandatory challenger for British Jr. Middleweight champion Ted Cheeseman, Troy Williamson scored a sixth round stoppage of previously undefeated Kieran Smith. What was a close and competitive bout ended suddenly when Williamson connected with an overhand right that set off a brutal barrage of unanswered punches that sent Smith down to the canvas. The bout was immediately stopped without a count. Official time of the stoppage was 1:28 of round six. Troy Williamson advances to 16-0-1, with 12 Knockouts. Kieran Smith falls to 16-1, with 7 Knockouts.

 

Undefeated Lightweight Ryan Garner overcame a bad cut to score a six round decision over Jordan Ellison. Although Garner dictated the combat throughout, Ellison connected with a right hand to the head at the end of the third round that opened a cut on Garner’s left eyelid. Despite the cut being in a bad spot, Garner remained in control and was able to score the decision victory. As all non-title bouts that do not have an impact on regional or world rankings are solely scored by the referee officiating a bout throughout the United Kingdom, Referee Ian-John Lewis scored the bout 60-54 in Garner’s favor. Ryan Garner advances to 10-0, with 6 Knockouts. Jordan Ellison falls to 11-33-2, with 1 Knockout.

 

Jr. Middleweight Joshua Frankham began the evening by scoring a four round decision over veteran Naeem Ali to remain unbeaten. Referee Robert Williams scored the bout 40-36 in Frankham’s favor. Joshua Frankham advances to 3-0, with 0 Knockouts. Naeem Ali falls to 2-67-1, with 1 Knockout.

 

York Hall is traditionally one of England’s historic venues for the sport of Boxing dating back to to 1949. A venue that is not unlike the legendary Blue Horizon in Philadelphia, PA here in the United States another historic Boxing venue that has hosted many memorable battles throughout its history. Although the venue was without its normal crowd of spectators due to the ongoing global COVID-19 epidemic , Sunny Edwards victory in winning the IBF Flyweight world championship is the latest in a long list of memorable moments to have taken place in London’s York Hall.

 

In terms of what the future holds for Edwards, it is logical to think that after a near perfect performance in a fight against the vastly more experienced Moruti Mthalane, a fighter who had two reigns as IBF Flyweight world champion and who had not lost a fight in over thirteen years, the sky may be the limit. After defeating Mthalane, Edwards might be in a position to garner more lucrative opportunities against the other world champions in the division if he chooses to remain at 112lbs.

 

“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

 

 

Ruiz-Arreola And Parker-Chisora Take Centerstage Saturday

 

So often in the sport of Boxing when it is able to operate under normal circumstances, it is not uncommon to see two fights take place in the same division within a short span of time that has a similar storyline. Such will be the case on Saturday, May 1^st when two Heavyweight encounters will headline separate cards that have similarities between them and one might argue given the state of the Heavyweight division, the winners of these bouts could well face each other down the line.

 

In one of these bouts, former unified IBF/WBA/WBO/IBO Heavyweight world champion Andy Ruiz will return to the ring for the first time since December 2019 where he lost his crown in a rematch with the man he had taken the championship from in June of that year Anthony Joshua. Ruiz will return against longtime Heavyweight contender and multi-time world title challenger Chris Arreola in the main event of a card televised here in the United States by Fox Sports Pay-Per-View at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA.

 

While it is questionable why this bout, which will be promoted by the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) group of promoters, would not be better suited as the headline attraction of a card televised on the national Fox network given both the ongoing circumstances of the COVID-19 global epidemic as well as the continued decline of the pay-per-view medium, this is an interesting clash of styles between Ruiz a fighter with good hand speed and punching power and Arreola a fighter known for an exciting brawling style.

 

Although some might say that Arreola, who will enter the bout with a record of 38-6-1, with 33 Knockouts, is a fighter who’s best days as a fighter might be behind him, he is a fighter who’s style is one that will likely force Ruiz to fight early and this could produce a short fight that might see several heated exchanges of offense between the two fighters. Much like Ruiz, who will enter with a record of 32-2, with 22 Knockouts, Arreola is also coming off of both a decision loss in his last fight as well as a lengthy layoff due to the COVID-19 epidemic having dropped a twelve round unanimous decision to then undefeated Heavyweight contender Adam Kownacki in August 2019.

 

While the former World Heavyweight champion is likely to be the favorite going into this bout, one a that will be present in this fight for Ruiz is the addition of trainer Eddy Reynoso in his corner. Ruiz, who has often been criticized for weight fluctuations throughout his career and weighed 283lbs. for his title defense against Anthony Joshua in December 2019 has dropped nearly thirty pounds since joining Reynoso’s stable and one might expect to see improvements in both his hand speed, which was among the best in the division before hiring Reynoso, as well as in his overall lateral movement.

 

The danger for Ruiz in this fight in this observer’s eyes is the potential of getting caught in the midst of exchanges with Arreola in a similar way to how he was caught in his first fight with Anthony Joshua in June 2019. Although Ruiz was dropped in the third round of that fight, he also showed the ability to recover quickly and scored a knockdown of his own moments later and ultimately stopped Joshua to become world champion, Arreola does have punching power and is most dangerous when an opponent stands in front of him and is willing to engage in a toe to toe battle with him.

 

At forty years old however, it is logical to ask after a long career where he has sustained significant punishment just how much Chris Arreola has left in him to give as a fighter. Logic also suggests that this may be Arreola’s last chance near the top of the Heavyweight division and a loss to Andy Ruiz could signal the end of his career.

 

A fight in the division with a similar storyline that will also take place on May 1^st will take place at the Manchester Arena in Manchester, England. This bout also features a former World Heavyweight champion, who is looking to get another shot at a world championship going against a longtime contender and former world title challenger. Former WBO Heavyweight world champion Joseph Parker will face longtime contender Dereck Chisora in the main event of a card that will be televised globally by digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN.

 

Similar to the Ruiz-Arreola bout, this is a scenario where Parker, who will enter the bout with a record of 28-2, with 21 Knockouts, is looking to continue building momentum towards another world title shot. Parker is currently riding a four bout winning streak and is coming off a twelve round unanimous decision over over Junior Fa in February of this year. In Dereck Chisora, Parker will face a former British and European Heavyweight champion and a veteran of forty-two professional bouts. Chisora is coming off a twelve round unanimous decision loss to undefeated former Undisputed Cruiserweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk in October of last year.

 

Much like Chris Arreola, Chisora has no shortage of experience having fought many top Heavyweights throughout his career including a challenge of then WBC world champion Vitali Klitschko in February 2012 and two bouts with current undefeated WBC world champion Tyson Fury just to name a few. Similar to Arreola, there have been times where Chisora has looked great in his bouts, but there have also been times where he has not looked good. Some could argue that the other similarities between Chisora and Arreola is they have not succeeded against the elite fighters of the division and now Chisora like Arreola, could be looking at his last chance at potential world title contention down the line.

 

This fight in my eyes will come down to whether or not Chisora as a pressure fighter that likes to come forward and walk his opponents down will be able to do that against a boxer/puncher in Parker. In his last bout against Oleksandr Usyk, this approach had limited success, but Usyk was able to out box Chisora and get the decision victory. Dereck Chisora does have the punching power to do damage, but it will be interesting to see whether Parker will be able to offset Chisora’s pressure for duration of the twelve round bout.

 

An obvious question is whether the winners of these two fights will be pitted against each other down the line, There is also a possibility that these two bouts could lead to a rematch between Parker, who defeated Ruiz for the then vacant WBO world championship in December 2016. Of course, the idea that the winners of these two bouts will ultimately face each other for now remains simply an idea. The fact however, is all four fighters are all seeking an opportunity at some point to challenge for a World Heavyweight championship down the line, Before any of them can get that chance, there is business to tend to first. We’ll see what happens on “Heavyweight Saturday.”

 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

 

Ruiz vs. Arreola takes place on Saturday, May 1^st at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA. The bout as well as a three bout televised undercard can be seen in the United States on Fox Sports Pay-Per-View on cable/satellite providers as well as on the FITE TV app on mobile, tablet, and connected streaming devices beginning at 9PM ET/6PM PT (U.S. Time) for $49.99. Contact your cable/satellite provider for ordering information or download the FITE app or visit: https://www.fite.tv/watch/andy-ruiz-vs-chris-arreola/2p938/ to order. Check your local listings and FITE TV internationally.

 

Parker vs. Chisora takes place on Saturday, May 1^st at the Manchester Arena in Manchester, England. The bout as well as its full undercard can be seen globally (Excluding the United Kingdom and Ireland) on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN beginning at 1PM ET/10AM PT (U.S. Time.) 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.

 

In the United Kingdom and Ireland, the card can be seen on Sky Sports Box Office Pay-Per-View beginning at 6PM (Local UK Time.) for £19.99. To order please visit: https://www.sky.com/boxoffice/chisora-parker.

 

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Is It Time For Navarrete To Move Up In Weight Again?

 

In all of combat sports and in particular in the sport of Boxing, there is somewhat of an accepted practice that unless one competes in the Heavyweight division, fighters generally will move up through multiple weight classes during the course of their careers. While of course there are those who manage to stay in one weight division for the majority of their careers, there are usually two reasons why a fighter would move up in weight. One is for financial reasons in that there are likely more lucrative opportunities for a fighter at a heavier weight than where they are currently. Perhaps the most obvious reason however, is when a fighter physically outgrows their current weight class.

 

For two-division world champion Emanuel Navarrete, he has reached the top in both the 122lb. Jr. Featherweight and 126lb. Featherweight divisions. Standing at 5’7, Navarrete is blessed to be in a position where he has natural height and reach advantages over many of his opponents. Navarrete’s first defense of his WBO Featherweight world championship came on April 24^th in Kissimmee, FL where he faced WBO number six rated contender Christopher Diaz before a crowd of nearly 3,300 socially distanced spectators in accordance with COVID-19 protocols at the Silver Spurs Arena.

 

Although it was obvious to this observer that this would be a classic clash of a puncher in Navarrete and a fighter who is more known as a boxer in Diaz, what stood out to me from the outset was the difference in size between the champion and challenger. In this case, Navarrete had a near three inch height advantage and an eight inch reach advantage over Diaz. Taking the statistics of height and reach out of the equation, it appeared to my eyes as though I was watching a fighter in Diaz attempting to complete with an opponent that looked like a full-fledged Lightweight, two weight divisions above the 126lb. Featherweight division.

 

In terms of the combat that took place between the fighters inside the ring, Diaz was able to put forth a determined effort in an attempt to dethrone the champion. As the fight progressed however, the visible difference between the two fighters began to show itself in the fight, Navarrete would score the first knockdown of the bout in round four. Despite appearing to be at a physical disadvantage as well as one in terms of punching power, Diaz remained very “Game”, but he was unable to keep Navarrete from being able to have the advantage and could not land anything to discourage the champion from coming forward. Navarrete would score two additional knockdowns in round eight and a fourth knockdown in the twelfth and final round before Diaz’ corner stopped the fight in the closing seconds of the bout to prevent their fighter from further punishment.

 

While no one can take anything away from the effort that Christopher Diaz put forth in this bout, ultimately it was a fight that the champion dominated. Although this was Navarrete’s first defense of the world championship he won in October of last year, this observer believes it might be time for him to focus on challenging for a world championship in a third weight division. 

 

The next division that follows the 126lb. Featherweight division is the 130lb. Jr. Lightweight division. While the Emanuel Navarrete that entered the ring against Christopher Diaz appeared in my eyes to look more like a natural 135lb. Lightweight, it will be interesting to see whether Navarrete will choose to test the waters at Jr. Lightweight first or if he will attempt to go right to the Lightweight division in the near future.

 

Even though it is not uncommon to see fighters gradually move up in weight over time, it will also be interesting to see if Navarrete, who has a career knockout percentage of 80% in thirty-four career wins will be able to carry the punching power that has made him devastating as a Jr. Featherweight and Featherweight as he moves up the weight scale. The answer to that question will likely as it has for many fighters through the years, be used to determine at what weight division will Navarrete find his ceiling. 

 

“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