Parker Defeats Chisora For Second Time In Rematch In Manchester, England

 

Former WBO Heavyweight world champion Joseph Parker scored a convincing, yet hard-fought twelve round unanimous decision over longtime contender Dereck Chisora on Saturday night at the Manchester Arena in Manchester, England. A rematch of a closely fought battle earlier this year at the same venue held behind closed doors due to COVID-19 protocols, this time Parker did not willingly engage on the inside and made Chisora work for every opportunity to get on the inside. In the process, Parker was administering a beating on the former world title challenger. Parker was credited with a knockdown in round four when a right uppercut to the head of Chisora staggered him into the ropes and it was ruled by Referee Howard Foster that the ropes prevented him from going down to the canvas. Chisora responded by getting up and walking over to a corner and waited for Parker to come forward in an attempt to bait him into walking into a punch he would not see coming. Despite the veteran tactics, the punishment continued, even though when it appeared that Chisora was on the verge of being stopped he would respond by firing hard punches that kept him in the fight.

 

In round seven, Parker would score a second knockdown of Chisora, this time sending him down on his knees on the canvas. As was the case in round four, Chisora walked over to a corner and positioned himself in a way to challenge Parker to come forward. Chisora was able to land hard shots that kept him competitive in the fight, but was knocked down for a third time in round eight. After the third knockdown, it appeared that Chisora had nothing left to give and the fight would be justifiably stopped, but as had been the case throughout the fight, when he was knocked down, he would again walk to a corner and wait for Parker to follow. What gradually became a grueling battle as the fight progressed, eventually, Chisora suffering the effects of both punishment that was dished out by Parker as well as fatigue appeared to struggle to stay on his feet. In what can only be described as a veteran fighter refusing to be stopped, Chisora, as he has done his entire career showed his mettle and made it to the final bell still throwing punches with knockout intention when the bell to end the bout rang. The three knockdowns over the course of the fight as well as Parker’s more effective punches throughout made the decision a logical conclusion in what was still an entertaining bout from start to finish. Official scores were: 115-110, 114-112, 115-111 for Joseph Parker. Joseph Parker advances to 30-2, with 21 Knockouts. Dereck Chisora falls to 32-12, with 22 Knockouts.

 

Also on this card:

 

In a battle for the vacant European Super-Middleweight championship, undefeated Kevin Sadjo scored a sixth round knockout over heavily favored Jack Cullen. Sadjo, who took the fight on short notice had to deal with the taller and longer Cullen, but was able to get on the inside and landed several right hands to the head throughout. Although Cullen was cut over the left eye in round two as a result of an accidental clash of heads and seemed as though he was landing the more effective shots throughout, Sadjo found increasing success as the fight progressed. The end of the fight came suddenly when Sadjo landed a perfectly placed left hook to the body that crumbled Cullen to the canvas in pain. Cullen was able to get up at the count of nine, but was in no condition to continue resulting in the fight being stopped.  Official time of the stoppage was 1:11 of round six. Kevin Sadjo advances to 17-0, with 15 Knockouts. Jack Cullen falls to 20-3-1, with 5 Knockouts.

 

Jr. Lightweight contender Zelfa Barrett scored a twelve round unanimous decision over fellow contender Bruno Tarimo. In what was a final elimination bout in the IBF Jr. Lightweight ratings, Tarimo tried to apply consistent pressure on the taller Barrett from the opening bell. This approach had some success, however Barrett was able to catch Tarimo with a short left hook to the head in round three that knocked him down. As the fight progressed Barrett was able to gain more distance between himself and Tarimo and with that separation was able to open his offense more in landing right hands, uppercuts, and mixing in combinations on his way to the unanimous decision victory. Official scores were: 117-110 (On two scorecards), and 116-111 for Barrett. Zelfa Barrett advances to 27-1, with 16 Knockouts. Bruno Tarimo falls to 26-3-2, with 5 Knockouts.

 

In a battle for the International Boxing Organization (IBO) Super-Middleweight world championship undefeated former European Super-Middleweight champion Lerrone Richards scored a twelve round split decision over previously unbeaten world champion Carlos Gongora. An extremely tactical fight from the outset, Richards used lateral movement to evade, counter punch, and outwork the champion over the course of the fight. Gongora had his best moments of the fight when he was able to get in close and land hooks on Richards, but ultimately, his spurts of success with his offense were not enough for him to retain his world championship in what was a very difficult fight to gage who had the upper hand due to the pace and the tactics in which the fight was fought. Official scores were: 15-113 for Richards, 116-112, for Gongora, and 115-113 for Richards giving the challenger his first world championship. Lerrone Richards advances to 16-0, with 3 Knockouts. Carlos Gongora falls to 20-1, with 15 Knockouts.

 

Undefeated Heavyweight Alen Babic scored a sixth round knockout over a “Game” David Spilmont. A brawl from the outset, Babic nearly put Spilmont down in a neutral corner in the first round, but Spilmont was able to withstand the storm. Despite the constant pressure and power punches of Babic, Spilmont began to find holes in Babic’s offense in being able to counter his wide punches. It was a counter left hook to the jaw that caught and badly hurt Babic in the closing seconds of the third round. Babic was able to recover and a combination of hooks along the ropes put Spilmont down in the fourth round. In round five Spilmont was able to land the harder shots of the two, but in round six, Babic put him down for a second time with a hook to the head. This time, Spilmont was unable to get up and was counted out. Official time of the stoppage was :53 of round six. Alan Babic advances to 10-0, with 10 Knockouts. David Spilmont falls to 11-8-1, with 7 Knockouts.

 

2020 Olympic Heavyweight Bronze medalist David Nyika, now competing as a Cruiserweight, scored a first round stoppage of Anthony Carpin to earn the second victory of his professional career. Nyika immediately put Carpin on the defensive and landed several right hands behind a consistent jab throughout the round including stunning Carpin with a right hand to the head at the midway point of round one. Carpin was able to get out of the round, but the bout was stopped by his corner due to an apparent injury to Carpin’s left elbow. David Nyika advances to 2-0 with 2 Knockouts. Anthony Carpin falls to 5-7-2, with 2 Knockouts.

 

Unbeaten Women’s Jr. Welterweight Sandy Ryan scored a third round stoppage of a very “Game” Maria Capriolo. From the opening bell, Ryan used her height and reach to keep Capriolo on the defensive. In round three a left hook the seemed to land on the top of the head briefly knocked Capriolo off balance and caused her glove to touch the canvas. Ryan followed this up with a barrage of mostly unanswered punches that ultimately forced a stoppage of the bout. Official time of the stoppage was 1:11 of round three. Sandy Ryan advances to 3-0 with 2 Knockouts. Maria Capriolo falls to 7-14-4, with 0 Knockouts.

 

A battle of unbeaten Cruiserweights saw Jordan Thompson needing only fifty-three seconds to score a first round knockout of Piotr Budziszewski. Thompson dropped Budziszewski quickly with a jab early in the round and sent him down for a second and final time with a flush uppercut. The fight was immediately stopped. Jordan Thompson advances to 12-0, with 10 Knockouts. Piotr Budziszewski falls to 4-1, with 2 Knockouts.

 

In Women’s Lightweight rematch that began the evening, Rhiannon Dixon scored her second victory over Vaida Masiokaite in scoring a six round decision victory. A rematch of Dixon’s pro debut in 2020, which she won a four round decision, this time, Dixon was able to outwork Masiokaite over six rounds to earn the decision win. Referee John Latham scored the bout 60-54 in favor of Dixon.  Rhiannon Dixon advances to 4-0, with 0 Knockouts. Vaida Masiokaite falls to 2-14-4, with 1 Knockout.

 

A Welterweight bout between Cyrus Pattinson and Evgenii Vazem that was scheduled for this card was cancelled the day before the card due to Vazem testing positive for the COVID-19 virus. As of this writing, there is no word as to whether there will be an attempt to reschedule the bout for 2022.

 

The rematch between Joseph Parker and Dereck Chisora was eagerly anticipated following their first encounter in May of this year. Although like the first encounter there was no shortage of entertainment value in the rematch, a clear winning did emerge this time around. While Joseph Parker will likely spend 2022 trying to secure another opportunity to win a world championship in the Heavyweight division, the obvious question that needs to be asked is whether this loss for Dereck Chisora will be the final bout of a fourteen year career that has seen him win British, Commonwealth, and European Heavyweight championships as well as spend much of his career at or near the top of the division in terms of contenders vying for a shot at the World Heavyweight championship.

 

While Chisora has made news at times for the wrong reasons including slapping then WBC Heavyweight world champion Vitali Klitschko prior to challenging him for the crown in February 2012, he has always given his best every time he has entered the ring and the heart he has displayed throughout his career is something that has endeared him to Boxing fans around the world. At thirty-seven years of age after forty-four bouts and more than a few grueling battles, this observer believes it might be time for Chisora to consider retirement. Ultimately, the decision to retire will be the fighter’s decision to make and only Chisora alone should make that decision, but the heart he has shown may eventually lead to a tragic circumstance if he does continue fighting after taking punishment not just in this latest loss to Joseph Parker, but throughout his career. It is my hope that Chisora will take time to recover and then make the best decision for himself going forward.

 

“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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

 

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

 

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

 

The Lightweight Picture Going Into 2022

 

The recent weeks in the sport of Boxing have been dominated largely by the 135lb. Lightweight division. As events have taken place including George Kambosos’ victory over Teofimo Lopez to win the Undisputed Lightweight championship of the world in late November, which set the focus squarely on the division beyond the coincidence of several bouts, including that one in and around the top of the division taking place within q narrow time frame, this observer has done his best to chronicle those bouts, which unfortunately, included the months-long saga that preceded the Lopez-Kambosos bout.

 

Following successful victories by unbeaten contenders Devin Haney and Gervonta Davis in the week following Kambosos victory over Lopez, the final marquee bout of 2021 at least as far as the Lightweight division is concerned took place on December 11^th in Madison Square Garden in New York City, NY. A bout that yours truly referred to as a “Crossroads Fight” in the days prior to the bout. This observer is referring to the battle between former Lightweight world champions Vasyl Lomachenko and Richard Commey. Two fighters that coincidentally lost their respective portions of the World Lightweight championship to the man who is now the former undisputed world champion, Teofimo Lopez.

Some might wonder why yours truly would refer to this encounter as a “Crossroads Fight” given that both Lomachenko and Commey are recent former world champions in the same division. Typically, the term “Crossroads Fight” is used to describe a scenario where two fighters face each other where the loser may head toward retirement. In this case, it is different in that both Lomachenko and Commey are still in their physical primes, but I felt the loser of this fight would be knocked out of world title contention for a significant period of time due largely to the current changing landscape of the division with several top contenders vying for the opportunity to face the new Lightweight champion of the world George Kambosos. This means that the fighter that didn’t come out on top in this fight would be faced with two plausible options. The first would be if they wanted to remain at 135lbs. to essentially be put in a scenario where they would be pitted against both fringe contenders and rising prospects until such time as an opportunity came up where they could work their way back into the world championship picture.  While sometimes it takes fighters in such positions lengthy periods to accomplish this, despite their name recognition, it has happened before throughout the sport. Alternatively, the second and perhaps most logical option would be for the loser of this fight to seek other opportunities at a higher weight, most likely the 140lb. Jr. Welterweight division.

 

As this fight approached, I wondered what the combat would look like as both Lomachenko and Commey can box, but both are certainly capable of getting an opponent out of there should the opportunity arise. It was no surprise to me to see Lomachenko execute nearly flawless footwork for which he is known from the outset. Although some may not understand or appreciate the value of lateral movement particularly in a tactical strategy, they should watch footage of Vasyl Lomachenko as he showed in this fight as he has done his whole career as both an amateur and a professional how footwork can be used both as a way of setting up offense as well as defensively.

 

From the opening round, Lomachenko used his legs to create openings to pepper Commey often with blistering combinations of punches, mixing up his level of attack, and making it very difficult for Commey to get his offense going much less find a rhythm. Although Commey showed tremendous heart throughout this fight, there were times as it progressed where I actually expected the bout to be stopped. There was one point in particular in the early rounds when Lomachenko staggered Commey in the closing seconds of a round, but chose to step back likely out of respect for his opponent and allowing him to finish the round.

 

Perhaps the most telling moments of this fight came in the seventh round when Lomachenko knocked Commey down with a flush left hook to the jaw. Commey to his credit showed his mettle by getting up from the knockdown and, despite the fight being allowed to continue, Lomachenko, instead of pressing forward for what would have likely been a stoppage victory, looked over to his opponent’s corner and motioned Commey’s trainer Andre Rozier to stop the fight. Rosier did not stop the bout and the gradually one-sided encounter continued. Despite being tactically out gunned by a superior fighter, Richard Commey continued to show his heart and to his credit was able to recover from circumstances that would have likely ended the night for most fighters in the position he was in, in the seventh round. Commey also never quit fighting and was able to have his share of moments in the latter rounds and did manage to go the distance in losing a twelve round unanimous decision to Lomachenko.

 

In all truth and honesty with the reader, shortly before the knockdown in round seven, I got a quick look at Richard Commey’s eyes and I said to myself “He’s done” in thinking that the fight was nearing its end. The knockdown moments later seemed to fall in line with what I was thinking as the look I observed albeit a brief look was one of a fighter that tried his best, but simply had no answer to combat a fighter of Lomachenko’s skillset, as many opponents both on the amateur and pro levels have experienced similar conundrums against Lomachenko. I was surprised following the knockdown to first not see Lomachenko pounce on his opponent to get the stoppage, but I was more surprised as it became increasingly clear, despite the heart and will Commey was showing, that he was taking a beating that neither his corner nor the referee stopped the fight as short of a puncher’s chance, it was clear to any knowledgeable observer that the fight was out of reach for him in terms of the scorecards.

 

While it is indisputable that any fighter that gets into a ring has a puncher’s chance and keeping in mind that Richard Commey did have the ability to score knockouts, I feel that there would have been no harm in stopping this fight even though Commey deserves all the credit he receives for going the distance. Although his trainer Andre Rozier explained after the fight that he did not want to stop the fight out of respect for his fighter in saying that he did not want to take his pride away from him, I respectfully disagree with the decision even though Commey was able to have his moments periodically after the seventh round.

 

A fighter’s heart and will is something that should always be respected, but it is the responsibility of a fighter’s corner to at times protect the fighter against themself. There is no doubt in my mind that had this fight been scheduled for fifteen rounds or going back to the original bareknuckle format of the sport where bouts were scheduled for ungodly round distances that as long as Richard Commey could stand, he would have continued on as many great fighters and former world champions have demonstrated throughout Boxing history. Thankfully for Richard Commey, he did not suffer any serious injures in the twelve rounds he spent in the ring with Vasyl Lomachenko, but one has to be concerned with what the accumulative effect of punishment that Commey sustained not just in this fight, but throughout his career, which will likely continue, will have on him long-term. Boxing is after all a combat sport and with each fight, particularly one that was fought like this, concern for a fighter’s long-term health should be a consistent topic of discussion. Nevertheless, Richard Commey should hold his head high for the brave effort he put forth in defeat and if he chooses to stay at Lightweight, could find himself back in the mix if he can get a few wins under his belt against either fringe contenders or prospects looking to move up in contention. For now, Commey should take some time to recover and then decide what will be next for him.

 

As for Vasyl Lomachenko, of the three fighters who emerged with victories in subsequent bouts following George Kambosos’ victory over Teofimo Lopez, he perhaps made as strong an argument if not the strongest as for him getting the potential first opportunity to face the new champion. Lomachenko has also stated that he has no problem traveling to Australia, Kambosos’ home country to face him, where Kambosos wants to make his first title defense.  While Lomachenko’s willingness to travel to an opponent's backyard is something that will likely be taken into consideration as Devin Haney has also said he would do the same, unfortunately, the decision will likely come down to which promoter and network puts up the most money to entice Kambosos to do the fight under their banner and on their platforms.

 

In an ideal scenario, being that yours truly also grew up a fan of the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) in addition to my love for Boxing and combat sports, having watched many of the PBA’s tournaments on Saturday afternoons on ABC Sports here in the United States in the 1980’s and into the 1990’s where bowling broadcasts would often be the lead in for Boxing broadcasts on Wide World of Sports, an era that I frankly miss that should have never disappeared as far as Boxing is concerned,  I wish there could be something akin to the PBA’s stepladder tournament format where the top four or five fighters face off one by one with the ultimate end game being facing the number one seed for the championship, which in this case would be Kambosos. As simplistic as such a format is, unfortunately for a variety of reasons including, but not limited to rival promoters, sanctioning organizations, competing networks, and the various business interests wherein, Boxing will never adapt such an approach though it is a concept that should probably go on this observer’s annual “Boxing Wishlist”, which is released here on The Boxing Truth® shortly after the start of a new year.

 

For now, we in the sport be it those of us who cover the sport, the fighters themselves, and most of all the fans of Boxing, who continue to support the sport tirelessly will have to settle for the fact that Lomachenko, Haney, Davis, and perhaps the former champion Teofimo Lopez are all in the mix as 2022 looms. We can only hope that the various business elements that be in the sport are not going to take too long to determine who will get the first shot at Kambosos and that such a decision will benefit all involved.

 

“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

 

PROBELLUM SIGNS OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST HEBERT SOUSA

 Press Release: By Probellum - Los Angeles, CA – December 11, 2021 - Probellum is thrilled to announce the signing of 2020 Olympic gold medalist Hebert Sousa ahead of his plans to turn professional.

Credit: Probellum

Sousa made history at Tokyo earlier this year, taking gold for Brazil in the middleweight division after knocking out Oleksandr Khyzhniak in the third round of their contest.

 

It capped off a fantastic amateur career for the 23-year-old from Salvador, which also includes a silver medal at the 2019 Pan American Games in Lima, a bronze medal at the 2019 World Championships in Yekaterinburg, and a bronze medal at the 2018 South American Games in Cochabamba.

 

Sousa will now take his incredible talents into the professional ranks, with the highly-rated Brazilian looking to replicate the immense success he has had so far.

 

He is the latest addition to Probellum's elite roster of talent, having already signed the likes of Regis Prograis, Nonito Donaire, Donnie Nietes, Lee McGregor, Eimantas Stanionis, Arthur Biyarslanov, Taras Shelestyuk, Ricky Burns, Paul Butler, Lewis Ritson, Muhammad Waseem, O'Shaquie Foster, Hovhannes Bachkov, Darius Fulghum, Eduardo Hernandez, Mark Dickinson, Brandon Moore, Jack Bowen, Jason Mallia and and Francisco Rodriguez.

 

"I am delighted to announce that I am signing with Probellum," said Sousa. "I was proud to win a gold medal at the Olympics earlier this year, and now it's time to show what I can do as a professional.

 

"The chance to compete not only in Brazil but around the world is something I am very excited for, and I can't wait to get started in the near future."

 

"We're extremely pleased to make another massive signing by welcoming Hebert Sousa to the team," said Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum. "We've already signed some of the very best fighters across the globe, and now we've got one of the very best fighters that Brazil has ever produced in Sousa.

 

"Probellum have shown repeatedly that we want to enter into markets that may not usually receive the backing they deserve, and by having a superstar like Sousa now join our ranks, we will look to take Brazil and South America by storm."

 

News on when Sousa will make his professional debut will be announced in due course.

 

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

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Probellum Used with permission.

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

PAT AND LUKE MCCORMACK SIGN WITH PROBELLUM

 Press Release: By Probellum - Los Angeles, CA – December 11, 2021 - Probellum is delighted to announce the signings of highly-rated twin brothers Pat and Luke McCormack as they turn professional.

The McCormack brothers had immense success during their time in the amateurs, with each of them proudly representing Team GB for a number of years.

Credit: Probellum

 

Pat's achievements include a silver medal at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, a gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast and a gold medal at the 2019 European Games in Minsk, while Luke won a gold medal at the 2018 EU Championships in Valladolid, a silver medal at the 2017 European Championships in Kharkiv and a bronze medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast.

 

The North East stars will now call time on their tremendous amateur careers and enter the paid ranks, teaming up with world-title winning trainer Ben Davison and joining an elite stable that includes the likes of Josh Taylor, Lee McGregor, Leigh Wood, Mark Dickinson and more.

 

At just 26-years-old, the McCormack brothers look destined for huge success in the sport, as they become the latest big names to sign with Probellum.

 

Probellum has also acquired an elite roster, including fighters such as Regis Prograis, Nonito Donaire, Donnie Nietes, Lee McGregor, Eimantas Stanionis, Arthur Biyarslanov, Taras Shelestyuk, Ricky Burns, Paul Butler, Lewis Ritson, Muhammad Waseem, O'Shaquie Foster, Hovhannes Bachkov, Darius Fulghum, Eduardo Hernandez, Mark Dickinson, Brandon Moore, Jack Bowen, Jason Mallia and and Francisco Rodriguez.

 

"We're ecstatic to announce our plans to turn professional by signing with Probellum," said Pat and Luke McCormack. "We are proud of what we achieved as amateurs, but now is the time to kick on and take our careers to the next level in the paid ranks.

 

"After our conversations with Probellum it was clear that they were the very best option for us, and we have full confidence that they will take us to the very top as we look to achieve our dreams of winning world titles."

 

"It is a true honor to announce the signings of Pat and Luke McCormack," said Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum. "They were some of the most sought-after fighters coming out of the Olympics, so to have them join Probellum is a massive statement of intent.

 

"We have an event in the North East of England on December 18 with some of the best talent from that area, and we're certain that Pat and Luke can become the next big stars from that region."

 

News on when Pat and Luke will make their respective professional debuts will be announced in due course.For live news and updates, be sure to follow Probellum on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Probellum Used with permission.

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

SUNNY EDWARDS RETAINS IBF FLYWEIGHT TITLE AT PROBELLUM REVOLUTION

 

Press Release: By Probellum – Dubai, United Arab Emirates – December 11, 2021 - Sunny Edwards successfully retained his IBF flyweight title as he took part in the historic Probellum Revolution event on Saturday. 

Credit: Probellum

The action-packed card was held in front of a huge crowd at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, and was broadcast to millions of fans across the globe, with the very best fighters from around the world on display.

Some of the biggest names from the world of boxing were in attendance, including Roy Jones Jr, Michael Buffer, Regis Prograis, and new Probellum signings Pat and Luke McCormack, along with celebrities such as Abdu Rozik and Adam Saleh.

The main event saw Edwards put on a masterclass to defeat Mama, while the card also saw victories for the likes of Bakhodir Jalolov, Jono Carroll, Anthony de Bruijn plus many more. The full details and results can be found below.

MAIN CARD RESULTS:

IBF FLYWEIGHT TITLE

SUNNY EDWARDS def. JAYSON MAMA via unanimous decision after 12 rounds (117-110, 118-109, 118-109)

Sunny Edwards once again displayed his elite boxing skills as he defeated Jayson Mama to make the first defence of his IBF flyweight title.

Edwards (17-0, 4 knockouts) was a level above throughout the fight, even overcoming a nasty cut early into the contest that could have potentially caused an issue.

The 25-year-old ensured that wouldn't be the case though, dominating proceedings and putting the exclamation point on the performance by dropping Mama (16-1, 9 knockouts) in round 10.

Mama lasted the distance, but there was only one winner in the end, with all three judges scoring it heavily in the favour of Edwards, as he extended his unbeaten record in style.

"In the second round my right eye was completely covered in blood at one point, but I'm a warrior and came through it," said Edwards. Mama is a great fighter and a great contender, and I'm sure his time will come in the future.

"I came here to fight Mama, and I did that and prepared hard and trained diligently, but I want to be in the big fights now. I want the Ring Magazine and WBC belt. That was my mandatory, and now I want Julio Cesar Martinez. I'm coming!"

"To all of my fellow countrymen, thank you for supporting me," said Mama. I'm sorry I didn't get the win, I did my best but it wasn't enough. Sunny Edwards is a great champion and a talented boxer.

"He's smart and fast, but next time I will come back stronger. I promise you all I will go back to the Philippines and train hard for the next opportunity." 

WBO INTERNATIONAL SUPER-FLYWEIGHT TITLE

DONNIE NIETES split draw with NORBELTO JIMENEZ after 10 rounds (96-94 Nietes, 96-94 Jimenez, 95-95)

There was a controversial ending between Donnie Nietes and Norbelto Jimenez as the two men fought to a split draw after 10 rounds of action.

Four-weight world champion Nietes (43-1-6, 23 knockouts) and challenger Jimenez (30-9-6, 16 knockouts) both gave it their all in the contest, with each fighter getting the advantage over the other at various points in the contest.

After 10 hard-fought rounds, confusion struck as Jimenez thought it was a 12-round contest, but it was only scheduled for 10, and the fight headed to the scorecards.

The judges couldn't split the two men, with scores of 96-94 Nietes, 96-94 Jimenez, and 95-95 meaning the bout ended in a draw, with Nietes keeping hold of his belt in the process.

"I felt I controlled it from the first round, then in the seventh round he was running around the ring," said Nietes. "I noticed that he fights really dirty. I'm 39-years-old, and the key to this game is discipline.

"I was able to make it out of the last round as still the champion. It depends on the promoter if they want to schedule a rematch again."

"I feel all the crowd know that I should have been the winner," said Jimenez. "The fight was meant to be 12 rounds and they put it down two rounds because they don't trust their fighter. If Nietes wants to win a world title, then he has to face me again."

BAKHODIR JALOLOV def. JULIO CESAR CALIMENO via KO at 0:46 of R1

Heavyweight sensation Bakhodor Jalolov once again displayed his incredible knockout power as he wiped out Julio Cesar Calimeno inside the very first round.

Jalolov (9-0, 9 knockouts) was back in action for the first time since winning the gold medal in the super-heavyweight division at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics this summer, returning to the paid ranks to take on Calimeno (4-2, 4 knockouts).

He didn't waste any time though, landing a huge left hand that sent Calimeno to the canvas. He couldn't get up before the referee's count of 10, handing Uzbekistan hero Jalolov the superb victory.

"I am absolutely ready for the world heavyweight championship. It doesn't matter who will be the champion," said Jalolov. "It doesn't matter if it's Usyk, Joshua, Fury, anybody. I am ready. I will keep on winning, and keep on performing at my best."

JONO CARROLL def. AELIO MESQUITA via TKO at 2:27 of R2

Jono Carroll moved a step closer to another world title shot after picking up a second round stoppage win over Aelio Mesquita.

Carroll (21-2-1, 5 knockouts) started well, and dropped Mesquita (20-6-1, 18 knockouts) at the end of round one. It wasn't initially given as a knockdown, but the referee informed the judges to score it as one.

'King Kong' then continued to dominate, dropping the Brazilian several more times throughout round two, and after a constant onslaught, the referee waved it off and handed Carroll the impressive win.

"My hard work and dedication has paid off. I was never born with serious skill, I'm just tough and durable and have dedicated myself over the past few years," said Carroll. "Everything is coming together, my strength and patience has improved, and I'm working with world champions and it's going to be my time.

"I was cut three weeks ago and had eight stitches, but I don't care, it was just a flesh wound. I'm here for world titles so I don't care what I have to do. Those world titles will be mine soon.

"I knew my opponent would be strong so I planned on making him miss in the first few rounds. He has a lot more knockouts than I have, so I knew it would be dangerous. I took a few on the gloves and thought where was the power? So I knew I could walk through him.

"I walked straight in front of him and took what he has and got the knockout. This is the revolution and we are taking over."

ANTHONY DE BRUIJN def. DIEGO VALTIERRA via majority decision after 6 rounds (57-57, 58-56, 59-55)

Anthony de Bruijn was victorious after a back and forth battle with Diego Valiterra, coming out on top thanks to a six-round majority decision win.

The bout was serving as the float fight on the bill, and both men took full advantage of their opportunity to shine in front of a big stage, as de Bruijn (11-0-1, 6 knockouts) got the better of the early rounds.

Valtierra (6-5, 2 knockouts) came back into the fight as it progressed, having success of his own and making it an entertaining affair, but de Bruijn managed to see out the fight and deservedly got his hand raised.

"After the first couple of rounds I thought it would be easy, but then he came back strong towards the end of the fight," said de Bruijn. "I survived through the rounds, and it was nothing that I haven't faced before.

"I dealt with it and in the end we got the win. I kept boxing, and thought I could have stopped him at one point but it is what it is. I knew I would get the win, and thank you to everybody for coming."

UNDERCARD RESULTS:

WBC ASIAN FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE
HASIBULLAH AHMADI def. NADIR BALOCH via TKO at 2:43 of R4

ROHAN DATE def. KELVIN DOTEL via unanimous decision after 6 rounds (60-53, 60-53, 60-53)

SULTAN AL NUAIMI def. SAHIL RAHMAN N via unanimous decision after 4 rounds (40-36, 40-36, 40-35)

FAHAD AL BLOUSHI def. KAMARUDEEN BOYEFIO via TKO at 2:47 of R3

 

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Probellum Used with permission.

 

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

Benn KO’s Algieri In 4

 

Undefeated Welterweight contender Conor Benn scored a brutal fourth round knockout of former WBO Jr. Welterweight world champion Chris Algieri on Saturday night at the Echo Arena in Liverpool, England. Benn began the fight by trying to establish an attack to Algieri’s body. Algieri, a fighter known for his lateral movement and ability to pick his spots was unable to find a rhythm due to both Benn’s body attack as well as his head movement, which limited Algieri’s ability to land his jab. In round two, a short left hook to the head sent Algieri down in a summersault like motion where his legs momentarily got caught in the ropes. Algieri contended that it was a slip and appeared to indicate that he felt he was hit behind the head. Nevertheless, the knockdown was counted. Benn brought a sudden and dramatic conclusion to the fight in the fourth round when a brutal one, two highlighted by a right hand to the chin sent the former world champion down and out on the canvas. Official time was 1:58 of round four. Conor Benn advances to 20-0, with 13 Knockouts. Chris Algieri falls to 25-4, with 9 Knockouts.

 

Also on this card:

 

Undefeated Undisputed Women’s Lightweight world champion Katie Taylor scored a ten round unanimous decision over top contender Firuza Sharipova. The fight was largely dictated by Taylor’s hand speed as she consistently found ways to beat Sharipova to the punch. Sharipova was able to execute her offense in spots, but generally it was Taylor getting the better of the action. Sharipova suffered a cut above the right eye in the fifth round as a result of an accidental clash of heads. Perhaps in a sign of frustration, the challenger was deducted a point in round six for holding, but even rough house tactics were not enough to turn the ebb and flow in her favor and Taylor was able to secure the convincing ten round unanimous decision to retain her Lightweight crown. Official scores were: 98-92, 97-92, and 96-93 all for Taylor. Katie Taylor advances to 20-0, with 6 Knockouts. Firuza Sharipova falls to 14-2, with 8 Knockouts.

 

Jr. Welterweight contender Robbie Davies scored a second round knockout over longtime contender Hank Lundy. Davies caught Lundy with a right hook to the temple in round one that badly staggered the veteran and former world title challenger. Lundy was able to survive the round under very unsteady legs, but Davies sensing that his opponent was compromised pressed forward in the second round, ultimately trapping Lundy and knocking him down and through the ropes. Lundy struggled to get back in the ring, but was counted out. Official time of the stoppage was 1:23 of round two. Lundy appeared to injury his right leg as he fell through the ropes and was examined in his corner following the stoppage. Robbie Davies advances to 22-3, with 15 Knockouts. Hank Lundy falls to 31-10-1, with 14 Knockouts.

 

Undefeated Jr. Lightweight Joe Cordina scored a ten round unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Miko Khatchatryan. Cordina consistently forced the action and outworked Khatchatryan over ten rounds to earn the unanimous decision victory. Official scores were 100-90, and 98-92 (On two scorecards) in favor of Cordina. Joe Cordina advances to 14-0, with 8 Knockouts. Miko Khatchatryan falls to 13-1, with 7 Knockouts.

 

Jr. Featherweight Peter McGrail moved to 2-0 in his young career with a second round knockout of Engel Gomez. The end came with a one, two from McGrail from the southpaw stance that ended with a left hand to the chin that sent Gomez flat on his back on the canvas. The bout was immediately stopped. Official time of the stoppage was 2: 18 of round two. Peter McGrail advances to 2-0, with 1 Knockout. Engel Gomez falls to 8-4-1, with 4 Knockouts.

 

 

In a battle of undefeated Middleweights, Caoimhin Agyarko scored an impressive ninth round stoppage of previously unbeaten Noe Larios. Agyarko implemented a systematic attack and was able to find a home for his left hook with increasing regularity throughout. This along with periodically switching his stance from southpaw to orthodox kept Larios from being able to find a way to break his rhythm. The end came when a flush left hook to the jaw of Larios staggered him and sent him against the ropes. A follow up barrage of unanswered punches forced a stoppage of the bout at 2:08 of round nine. Caoimhin Agyarko  advances to 10-0, with 7 Knockouts. Noe Larios falls to 14-1, with 6 Knockouts.

 

Super-Middleweight Paddy Lacey remained unbeaten by scoring a workmanlike four round decision over Vasif Mamedov. As all non-title bouts that do not impact regional or world rankings that are held in the United Kingdom and Ireland are scored solely by the referee officiating a bout, Referee John Latham scored the bout 40-36 in favor of Lacey. Paddy Lacey advances to 3-0, with 0 Knockouts. Vasif Mamedov falls to 2-8-2 with 0 Knockouts.

 

Featherweight contender Jordan Gill fought to a three round technical draw with veteran Alan Castillo. Gill suffered a cut on the hairline as a result of an accidental clash of heads that resulted in the bout being stopped. Because the bout was stopped before four rounds were completed, the bout was declared a technical draw. Joran Gill advances to 26-1-1, with 7 Knockouts. Alan Castillo advances to 27-11-1, with 10 Knockouts.

 

Jr. Welterweight Calum French scored a six round decision to begin his professional career over Rustem Fatkhullin. Referee Bob Williams scored the bout 60-54 in favor of French. Calum French advances to 1-0, with 0 Knockouts. Rustem Fatkhullin falls to 8-17, with 3 Knockouts.

 

Jr. Featherweight Joe McGrail began the evening by successfully making his professional debut in scoring a second round stoppage over Francisco Rodriguez. McGrail scored a knockdown with a right hand in the second round and had Rodriguez staggered badly in the latter seconds of the round. Although Rodriguez was able to survive the round, his corner had seen enough and stopped the fight at the conclusion of the second round. Joe McGrail advances to 1-0, with 1 Knockout. Francisco Rodriguez falls to 0-4, with 0 Knockouts.

 

For Conor Benn, the son of former two-division world champion Nigel Benn, this was a statement-making performance against a former world champion in Chris Algieri, who’s only previous stoppage loss came at the hands of current IBF/WBC Welterweight world champion Errol Spence. As a fighter, Nigel Benn was one of the most feared fighters in the Middleweight and Super-Middleweight division because of his punching power and ability to end fights often in devasting fashion in the blink of an eye. Several sons of great fighters have ventured into the sport and have found it difficult to live up to what is oftentimes an unrealistic expectation based on their roots of whose footsteps they are following that has at times produced mixed results. For now, Conor Benn has at least proven that he is a legitimate top contender. In terms of his punching power, it’s clear that he inherited his father’s ability to end a fight suddenly and in brutal fashion. Whether this ultimately leads him to winning a world championship in his own right remains to be seen. The year 2022 just might be the year where Conor Benn will at least get an opportunity to win one.

 

“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