And it doesn’t appear to be getting any better for him…

Reports have come out indicating that Ricky Burns has now broken ties with Warren. Ricky and his management team had been making some pretty unhappy noises once news of a delay to his unification bout with Miguel Vasquez broke and were understandably not impressed when a previous bout for Burns was cancelled.

According to The Scotsman:

RICKY Burns, the WBO lightweight champion, has parted company with his long-time promoter Frank Warren, according to the Coatbridge boxer’s manager, Alex Morrison.

The split comes in the wake of Warren rescheduling 29-year-old Burns’ unification bout with IBF champion Miguel Vazquez, from 16 March to 20 April, due to the Mexican having contracted a vital infection, said to have been caused by food poisoning.

 

…

 

But Morrison has questioned the extent of Vazquez’s illness after claiming that footage on YouTube shows the 26-year-old sparring when he was supposed to be laid up in bed.

Morrison said yesterday: “I regret it has come to this because I have known Frank for nearly 40 years, but it has to be for Ricky’s sake. I felt we had to do something to stop Ricky stagnating. Two fights have been called off after he has trained hard for them and it was not even certain that the bout with Vazquez would have gone ahead on 20 April. In fact, I now doubt very much that fight was ever going to happen.”

 

The obvious short term effect of this is that the bout with Vazquez looks dead in the water. As a fan that’s disappointing. Both Burns and Vazquez have been massively underrated and despite Adrian Broner’s popularity the contest between the two would have determined who the best 135lbs boxer was.

The stories so far have also all been pretty one-sided, coming from Burns’ camp. As far as I know Warren hasn’t commented. I can certainly see this case ending up in litigation if Warren wants to play hardball on it; depending on the various clauses contained in the contract it may not be possible for Burns to simply walk away. Likewise there may not be someone for him to immediately walk to; the most obvious contender is Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Sports but in a recent interview he sounded (realistically) cautious about signing too many big name stars. Outside of Hearn the British promotional landscape isn’t particularly deep: Hatton Promotions don’t have a regular TV deal, Frank Maloney has to have his bouts on either Warren’s BoxNation or on the little known Loaded TV and while Hennessy has links with Channel 5 it’s unclear quite how many dates they have (although the lure of a world champion may tempt them in).

Regardless, this is a big blow for Warren. He just lost Groves and now may be losing Burns. That leaves his stable with some pretty big holes in it and the worry that this might cascade down. Nathan Cleverly has seen bouts cancelled and a host of uninspiring opponents put in front of him with no indication that Warren’s talk of high profile bouts with the likes of Hopkins will ever materialise. It also robs Warren’s BoxNation of one of its stars in the short term and that won’t help the bottom line.

I’m sure there’s more to come on this…

Monday’s news that “Saint” George Groves has left Frank Warren’s stable of fighters to join rival promoter Eddie Hearn’s “Matchroom” team has thrown Warren’s March 16^th Wembley Arena extravaganza into further disarray.

Warren’s weekend had already been dramatic enough, with Scottish headliner Ricky Burns finding himself without an opponent for the second time in three months following the late withdrawal of IBF lightweight world champion Miguel Vazquez.

Burns’ camp is rightly furious with the latest turn of events, with manager Alex Morrison being quoted as saying the latest postponement is “unacceptable”.

He confirmed that Burns has now sunk £12,000 into training for two fights that have not happened.

His potential duel with Adrien Broner now looks further away than ever.

However, it is the news that Groves has decided his best chance of success lies elsewhere that will most rile veteran promoter Warren.

The likeable Hammersmith super-middleweight is unbeaten in 16 fights, the most notable being a split decision victory over bitter rival James DeGale in 2011.

He is said to be disillusioned with Warren’s matchmaking, believing that he should be in more prestigious fights than the European title fight with Mohamed Ali Ndiaye scheduled by Warren.

Groves’ ambition is admirable, but if his belief is that he should be challenging for world titles now then he would likely find himself falling short in a fiercely competitive division, bossed by the likes of Carl Froch, Mikkel Kessler, and top pound-for-pound superstar Andre Ward.

His best chance would appear to be fighting the winner of the upcoming WBO title fight between Arthur Abraham and Robert Stieglitz. Neither are in the class of Froch, Kessler or Ward.

He has clearly decided that, whatever his prospects, he would be better served with the emergent Hearn than Warren.

He will now have a 10-round tune-up fight with unheralded Argentine Dario German Balmaceda this weekend.

Warren, for whom the March 16^th bill would have been his biggest card since David Haye fought Dereck Chisora last summer, must regroup. His rescheduled card is set for April 20^th.

Matchroom’s Hearn has arguably surpassed him as the premier promoter in British boxing, but Warren has been in the game a long time and has seen off threats before.

He has a fierce will to win, and a joker card in the form of his Boxnation television channel.

Ominously, Hearn has revealed that Matchroom will announce two more signings in the next fortnight.

Rumours are that one or both could be existing charges of Warren. But expect Warren to hit back, hard.

Not all of the biggest battles in British boxing take place in the ring.

(Images courtesy of Karen Priestley)

Rose to face Alcine at Winter Gardens

“All the sacrifices, the hard work and the training is now paying off and I now hope to be able to get the recognition that I deserve.”

Britain’s Light Middleweight champion, Blackpool’s Brian Rose (22-1-1; 6KO’s) will make his Matchroom Sports debut, in front of the Sky Sports cameras, on the night of 20^th April. His opponent was today named as being former WBA Middleweight champion, the Haitian-Canadian Joachim Alcine (33-3-1; 19KO’s). At 36 years, Alcine is the ideal type of opponent for Rose to step up into the World Rankings and stake his claim to be one, if not the greatest Light Middleweight on the planet.

In discussing the outcome of the press conference Rose was understandably enthused as to how his future is now panning out. “Every fight I have had I have wanted to be on Sky Sports and I am looking forward to be getting that exposure and recognition again,” he said.

“I believe I deserve it and this will help me to move onto the world level and I will be gradually moving forward to fight for the big one. Hearn himself has been brilliant and he is so optimistic to want me to go for what I want. Hearn mentioning that it would be at Blackpool’s Bloomfield Road next summer would be an honour for me to do so.”

Not only will Rose be facing Alcine, but he has recently signed a contract with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Sports to which incorporates said coverage on Sky Sports. The power wielded by Hearn was an influencing factor in Rose agreeing to the move and the future for the British champion looks more than rosy.

Continuing, Rose said that “we had a good few options and I honestly accepted them all, including facing Cory Spinks who is a southpaw.

“I only found out about who I was going to be facing yesterday so we will be looking at him over the next few weeks. I wanted to face a big name and a one that would place me onto the world stage. This bout with Alcine makes a lot of sense and I really hope that people aren’t going to be blinded by the fact he lost to Macklin as it was half a round at best.

“I will be looking at providing a boxing masterclass in April and I will definitely be preparing for the full twelve rounds.

In talking to Matchroom Sports after the press conference, Rose stated that “Anything put in front of me I’ll take and I’m ready for the next chapter.

“I want to step on from British level up to World level and we’ll see if I’m ready for that against Alcine. I think I am and so do the team so lets’ do it. I’m over the moon to land this fight and to get it at home is even better. I get great support in Blackpool and I hope they all turn up on April 20 for a great night.”  

At present it is unknown which title Rose will be challenging for come the night of April 20^th, although it is mooted at being an Intercontinental strap, but challenge for one he will be as he looks to continue that rich vein of form that took him through a successful 2012.

Looking back on the year which saw him claim the Lonsdale belt for keeps, Rose continued by saying that “it had its ups and downs and was a really hard year for me, at times it was very much a nightmare if I am honest.

“However, winning the belt outright meant I had some good pulling power for when I approached Hearn and Matchroom. But yes, there were some tough fights last year, but facing Webb was most probably the hardest one for, that and Carslaw. I took Webb too much for granted and we both boxed brilliantly that night.”

Having had some well-earned time out over the holiday period, Rose has been back in training for the past six weeks at least and has been aided now by Soulmate Foods in relation to his dietary needs. “I’ve had a lot of good support and Soulmate have definitely been a great help to me.

“With them it means that sustenance and food intake is already ready for me without my worrying about what is needed.”

Also on the card at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens sees undefeated Scotty Cardle challenge for the Central Area Lightweight title against Maxi Hughes on what it is said will be another great night of professional boxing in Blackpool’s famous Winter Gardens. Tickets for which will go on sale in Blackpool on Monday 11th March and will be priced at £40, £80 and £150 VIP.

Press Conference can be found HERE

Curran back in Toon

Dougie ‘The Bullet’ Curran is the latest fighter to be announced for Wraith Promotions and Precision Sports 1st joint event ‘The Black And White Fight Night’ at the 02 academy in the heart of Newcastle City Centre on May 18th. Promoter Steve Wraith has his heart set on making Newcastle a bastion of invincibility on the pro boxing scene and he believes nights like these are what the public want.

“This will be our biggest fight night for quite a while in Newcastle and I’m hoping that fight fans will come along and support local lad Dougie Curran,” said Wraith.

“He has had over 20 pro fights and all bar one have been away from home. Now it’s time for him to show his home support what he can do. We are in discussions to get Dougie a crack at either a Northern Area title fight or a British Masters fight at Super featherweight but this show may come too soon and he may have to wait until the summer for that.

“The show is shaping up nicely with an all Geordie line up including, Andrew Buchanan, Rob Ismay, Mark Clauzel, Davey Ferguson and Paul O’Hagan already confirmed. We are also thankful to Grosvenor Casino, Ideala, Protector Security, M-Trec, Unique Prospects, Holler Watches, and Heineken for coming on board as sponsors. It’s vital to have the financial support for these shows and businesses are backing us.”

The Black And White Fight Night is Saturday May 18th at 4pm and all tickets are £30 and available from the venue, all boxers, or Wraith Promotions or by calling 0191 2299631.

(An interview with Curran and Ideala will be released at a later date)

Over 12 tense, close rounds the two played cat and mouse, darting in and out, countering, moving. It was not a classic matchup, it was not a “war” in truth it was barely even one for the purists. It is not a bout I’d watch again with any great pleasure. And after those 12 rounds Groves was declared the winner.

The two had come into the bout in roughly the same position. DeGale obviously had the additional name value that being an Olympic champion brings but otherwise the pair were close. DeGale was 10-0, Groves was 12-0. Both had come to the top of the mountain domestically, DeGale with his win over Paul Smith and Groves with his victory over Kenny Anderson. The seemingly inevitable result of Groves’ win should have been his elevation. While DeGale was unlikely to fade away you’d think now, nearly two years later, that Groves would be far ahead. When DeGale left Warren and descended into promotional hell and Groves entered the Warren stable it only reinforced that view.

Things haven’t quite turned out that way…

If you look at where both boxers stand today then if anything, DeGale is in the ascendency. Since losing to Groves he has boxed and won four times, winning the European Title and the WBC Silver Title, the title he will defend against dangerous but untested Colombian Alexander Brand in his next bout. In and of itself those Silver belts don’t mean much, but what they do do is move a boxer up the rankings and position them for title shots; DeGale is currently ranked four by the WBC. After the fallout from his split with Warren settled he ended up signing with Mick Hennessy… which most importantly meant he started to appear on Channel 5. He has as much exposure as any boxer in Britain.

Groves in contrast has had three bouts, taking out the previously mentioned Paul Smith in two rounds to reassert his domestic credentials, a showcase bout in the US against limited Mexican Francisco Sierra and a high profile match-up against semi-retired legend Glen Johnson. The infrequent nature of these bouts has meant he struggled to get any real momentum and as they occurred on BoxNation, a channel with limited reach, his victories haven’t really resonated with the general public. There has been some bad luck involved for Groves, notably injuries; a rematch with Kenny Anderson was cancelled and a world title shot against Robert Steiglitz likewise had to be called off. If Groves had been able to face and beat Steiglitz then this entire conversation wouldn’t be happening.

But Groves didn’t face Steiglitz and this conversation is happening.

In some ways the conversation has gone full circle. While not so long ago it was DeGale leaving Warren now Groves… the acquisition of who was somewhat of a coup for Warren… has left the stable, signing with debonair Essex-boy Eddie Hearn. Hearn has been on a roll recently, providing Sky Sports with its entire domestic boxing package and showing the ability to secure the likes of Gavin Rees high profile world title shots in the US. In truth Warren looks somewhat vulnerable now with a limited stable of boxers (some of whom aren’t exactly happy) and even worse news as another of his high profile bouts, an excellent lightweight contest between Ricky Burns and Miguel Vazquez has been postponed. Kevin Mitchell (the writer, not the boxer) has done a couple of excellent articles on the rise of Hearn and the alleged fall of Warren over at the Guardian which are well worth a read.

So while DeGale is lining up for another high profile bout, Groves is on an undercard, welcomed to the bossum of Hearn’s Matchroom Sports with the soft touch 11-6-2 Dario German Balmaceda. Hearn intends to keep Groves busy and quickly move him into world title contention but as of this moment if you had to ask who is more likely to get a title shot assuming they both win their respective bouts DeGale would be the clear answer.

Both remain highly talented if somewhat vulnerable boxers. DeGale is self-admittedly lazy in the ring and has a bad habit of sitting on the ropes trying to cover-up and counter, a tactic that robs him of much of his handspeed and ability to put together combinations. Groves is an excellent boxer-puncher but there have been questions about his chin and the injury bug continues to haunt him. Both are relatively young both in age and boxing; 27 with 15 bouts for DeGale and 24 with 16 bouts for Groves and if both can consistently keep boxing regularly I’d expect both to improve.

But two years ago, when Groves was sat on the sofa of BBC Breakfast discussing his win over DeGale do you think he saw his career having played out the way it did? That he wouldn’t have boxed for a world title, that he had barely boxed at all?

That he in turn would be sat at home, on a sofa, watching James DeGale, the man he beat, box on one of the biggest channels in the UK and talk about his own title aspirations?

In this case, the victor didn’t get the spoils.

Woodhouse and Singleton ready to clash in English Light Welterweight War

“Some people talk about going to war, others do it.”

Undefeated Colne pugilist, Shayne ‘The Pain’ Singleton (13-0; 3KO’s), puts that streak on the line when he challenges Driffield’s Curtis Woodhouse (17-4; 11KO’s) for the latter’s English Light Welterweight strap. The title will be decided this coming Friday night (8^th March) at the Bowlers Arena in Manchester and it is a bout with which the champion insists will stay in his favour, no matter what the challenger brings to the ring.

It is the second attempt that these two have looked at colliding for the English strap with the original one having been postponed last month (February) due to an injury to the champion. Both fighters had to slow their preparation so as to not peak too soon and will have affected each differently. It is how they overcome that ‘minor’ setback that will matter on the night, not that either will be using that discrepancy as an excuse, far from it.  

Singleton, at just 23, is the fresh-faced, young upstart in the Light Welterweight division and he is well aware of the challenge presented before him when he started by stating that “yes, it is a massive ask for me as he (Woodhouse) is a good, strong fighter with not really that much left for him to learn.

“It is still early days for me but I do believe I can go all the way and hope that I can hold my own when I step in there. Although I am less experienced than he is, my team and I and a very in depth discussion about my chances and feel I am capable of steeping up. It is going to be tough though.”

Woodhouse on the other hand, at 32, brings a very strong record to what will be his first title defence, having claimed the strap with an MD10 over Dave Ryan in September last year. The meeting with Ryan is one of several tough battles’ with which the champion has on his resume to date. From his debut back in September 2006 when he defeated Dean Marcantonio (PTS4) through to a duo of meetings with Jay Morris and a British title eliminator defeat to Dale Miles just three months prior to gaining the English, it has been a tough and long learning curve.

“With having no amateur experience when I came into the sport it was definitely a case of learning on the job for me,” said Woodhouse.

“I was matched delicately at the start, for obvious reasons, but those journeymen actually came to win when they faced me and not just survive like they normally do. It very much got me used to fighting.

“When I faced Morris the first time I was still playing football and, although he rightfully won that bout, I did feel I should have done so and it gave me the kick up the backside that I needed in order to progress. I was pleased to be able to clear myself when beating him shortly afterwards.”

The other two defeats on Woodhouse’s record arrived against Frankie Gavin for the WBO Intercontinental Welterweight, and against Dale Miles in what was a British Light Welterweight eliminator. Although the defeat to Gavin went the distance, Woodhouse suffered a fifth round stoppage against Miles, a battle which he imitated that he would love to happen again, but on a bigger stage.

“I underestimated Miles’ punching power and I suffered both a broken nose and a fractured cheekbone in there,” said Woodhouse.

“I had been hit by bigger shots from him earlier in the bout so I never expected the one which stopped me. I would love a chance to rectify things later down the line though, but it would need to be on a bigger stage, especially after that first meeting as it will be all out warfare between the two of us.”

Singleton though, as mentioned, is still undefeated, having won his first thirteen bouts including his last outing when claiming the International Masters strap with a PTS10 success over Santos Medrano in October gone. It was a bout in which ‘The Pain’ would win all ten rounds and put him onto the boxing map.

“Everyone is expecting me to go in there and to be beaten,” explained Singleton.

“However, I believe I am going to shock a few people even though they are all saying that it is too early for me. That talk is encouraging me even more to succeed here. I am far from underestimating him though and I know that I need to be 100%. 90% will not be good enough, not at all.

“He (Woodhouse) is a dangerous puncher and I cannot over think things when I am in there with him and I know it will be the hardest fight of my life. I do need to tell myself that I am going to win this and I need to be confident, mentally, more than anything else, as anything can happen.”

Woodhouse, although not playing down his challengers’ abilities, is very much focussed on making a successful defence and in discussing it said that “some people talk about going to war whereas others just go ahead and do it. My advice to Singleton is to come and box me as that is the best chance he has of winning this. If he doesn’t do that then I will decapitate him.

“I’m hoping he will come and box me, and if he does then that will be brilliant. But I don’t mind if he knows my game plan and what I am going to do. I haven’t changed anything from prior outings so he doesn’t need to worry about that at all.

“He better be ready though, and I mean ready. If he’s not then I will knock him out and be in the bar in time for last orders.”

With that ultra confidence in mind from the champion, Singleton needs to be at his best, and more, come the 9^th March. Stating that “I do have a plan to stick to and obviously I am going there looking to box him but I am also ready to get into a war with him if I need to do so.

“He is the bigger puncher, that much is obvious as well, but if that stoppage opportunity comes for me then I will take it. It will be a tough battle though that’s for sure.”

Curtis Woodhouse vs. Shayne Singleton will take place at Manchester’s Bowlers Arena on 8^th March and is promoted by David Coldwell’s Coldwell Promotions. A stacked undercard consists of a Welterweight clash between Craig Watson (21-5; 8KO’s) and Mark Lloyd (15-7; 2KO’s), an intriguing Light Heavyweight meeting of undefeated Hosea Burton (5-0; 1KO) and Craig Dilks (16-6; 5KO’s), alongside outings for Prince Arron, Ryan Doyle, David Barnes and more.

Undefeated and aiming for third time lucky

“They won’t be disappointed. I am fit, strong and ready to go.”

He may still be undefeated in a professional boxing career dating back to an October 2007 debut, but Blackpool’s other favourite son, and middleweight contender, Jack Arnfield (15-0; 4KO’s), is now in a hurry. The reason being that he wants to now make up for lost time and achieve similar to that of his stable mate, the British and English Middleweight champion, Brian Rose.

Preparing for a shot at the vacant British Masters Light Middleweight title at Bolton’s Reebok Stadium on the night of March 9^th, Arnfield motioned that “Brian has been on fire the past couple of years and, with my being out of the scene between 2009 and 2012, has moved some way ahead of me.”

It is that factor the Middleweight is looking to fire him to success when he steps into the ring to face Surrey’s experienced 27 year old pugilist, Gary Boulden (7-6-2). Boulden’s record is not necessarily a one to be sniffed at either when looking at the calibre of opponents faced in his own career dating back to 2008, Arnfield is well aware of the fact that his opponent has gone the distance with the likes of Patrick Nielsen, Bill Joe Saunders, Ahmed Kaddour, and more recently, Eamonn O’Kane.

This will be the first time in which Arnfield has been in a ten round bout, having seen this opportunity slip by the wayside not once, but twice, in his career to date. He is very much hoping to make it third time lucky though and has shown as much in his training.

“Boulden has fought over ten before when he faced Billy Joe, to me that shows he isn’t daft,” claims Arnfield.

“He has been in the ring with some top class opponents and, having watched him a few times, I can see that is very strong and really fit. It is because of this I will not be taking him lightly and will definitely be keeping my wits about me.

“I have been doing plenty in the gym though and this is by far the best camp I have been in to date.”

The gym which Arnfield motioned towards is owned by esteemed trainer, Bobby Rimmer and is based in Denton. With a history to it the gym was once the training ground of the former Light Welterweight champion, Ricky Hatton. It is a place that has a new found fondness in the hearts of the present occupants with Arnfield adding “it’s brilliant for us to have been able to move back in there because it is like a second home to us.”

Stable mate, Brian Rose, has been aiding Arnfield in some intense sparring, alongside that of Terry Carruthers and Warren Tansey. Add strength work and a compacted nutritional regime then it is no wonder Arnfield claims to be in the best shape of his career.  And, at only 23, this impending title bout is the next step on the ladder for a fighter who made his comeback in 2012, gathered three outings and defeated Jay Morris in his last at the Winter Gardens in December 2012, retiring his opponent in the first round.

“I know what I have done with Bobby and the rest in the gym and I really believe that I could not have done any more,” continued Arnfield.

“Boulden can’t have done more than me and I haven’t really been out of the gym since I started straining for my last bout (with Morris). I had a lesser training camp over the holiday period but was back full time once January 2^nd arrived.”

Not only is Arnfield looking to maintain his undefeated streak and claim his first title, but in a threefold he is also looking for sponsors to come on board as he makes the push to higher success. It is a challenge which he readily accepts.

“It is hard now because people know that low-level boxing doesn’t really pay that well but my looking at adding some good sponsors now can have a number of benefits. 

“Initially there is the fact that I will be fighting for a title, in front of some 1500 people, in a well-known venue, with an undefeated record. Afterwards, then I will be looking at progressing through the ranks and be challenging for British, English and Commonwealth titles. Having a sponsor(s) name(s) through those alone will be of benefit to both parties, particularly on a long term basis.”

The British Masters Light Middleweight title bout with Gary Boulden will be over ten-threes and is the headline bout at the De Vere Whites at the Reebok Stadium in Bolton, the home of Bolton Wanderers FC.  A stacked card will be promoted by Steve Wood and VIP Promotions on the night of Saturday 9^th March.

If anybody is interested in sponsoring Jack Arnfield as he moves into the business end of an undefeated professional boxing career then you can contact him directly via either his Facebook or Twitter accounts.

(Please mention this website when contacting fighters relating to sponsorship)

The key detail that has been released is that the bout will be held at the Motorpoint Arena in Sheffield. On paper there’s little surprising about that. Khan is a British fighter and his hometown of Bolton isn’t a vast distance from Sheffield. More, over recent years Sheffield has become a decent boxing city with potential future Khan opponent Kell Brook having had his recent UK bouts there.

What is perhaps surprising is that it doesn’t appear to follow the promotional strategy that Khan has held to in the last few years.

Khan, understandably, fought exclusively in the UK after turning professional with his first 23 bouts (including his loss to Prescott detailed in this post and title win over Kotelnyk) all taking place in various arenas across England. However, once he split from his original promoter Frank Warren and signed with Golden Boy Promotions in early 2010 his attention moved across the Atlantic.

Of his next seven bouts, six have taken place in the US. These were not the sort of “showcase” bouts which British boxers sometimes travel to the US for as a way to get their name into wider circulation (as say Kell Brook’s bout with Luis Galarza was), instead it was a deliberate effort to “make” Khan in the US. Golden Boy threw their entire promotional weight behind him and HBO were happy to follow; each of his bouts were shown on HBO.

I think it’s fair to say it hasn’t been a complete success.

His ratings on HBO have been moderate; generally in the 1.1-1.4 million category. These aren’t poor but neither are they something I imagine the powers that be were vastly excited by. His live gates haven’t been particularly special either; a typical Khan bout in Vegas often has just under half of the tickets given away for free. Better numbers came from his bouts in New York and Washington but in both cases that can be put down to the selling power of Malignaggi and Peterson respectively, who were boxing in their hometowns. The figures also indicate that Khan isn’t a Hatton like boxer who can bring thousands of Brits with him for his bouts. In truth it appears that promoters in the US didn’t understand the almost unique power Hatton had to bring fans with him; attempts to replicate it with Calzaghe in bouts with Hopkins and Roy Jones Jr failed badly.

Does the fact this bout is in Britiain really change anything though? After all, Khan faced off with McCloskey in Manchester afterall?

I think it does.

The McCloskey bout was explicitly sold as a sort of “treat” for Khan’s British fans (despite the fact it eventually ended up farcically being on PPV). It was a card built for Britian, featuring Khan against a popular Irish boxer (McCloskey apparently brought a few thousand fans with him). This doesn’t strike me as that. I have no doubt the undercard will be filled with British talent but the opponent? Diaz isn’t exactly a household name in the US, let alone in the UK and a doubt a single fan will be there to see him specifically. It would make more sense in many ways to hold the bout in California where Diaz could tap into the local Mexican-American population to sell tickets.

Golden Boy have a history of giving second chances to their talent but demanding performances from them. They swung their entire promotional support behind Victor Ortiz as his career started to heat up but when he lost against Maidana he was forced to build himself up on smaller shows and undercards. Following the draw with Peterson it appeared Golden Boy had virtually given up on him and that his bout with Berto would be a last throw of the dice… to the extent that Oscar de la Hoya, not one normally known for skipping a publicity opportunity, ended up in Manchester for Khan’s underwhelming bout with McCloskey as opposed to Connecticut for Ortiz’s fight of the year contender victory.

It seems to me that Golden Boy are going through the same stage with Khan. They threw their entire weight behind him and tried to make him a star in the US. From a business stand point this never quite happened and from a boxing point of view his loses to Peterson (however controversial) and Garcia ended his run of success. Khan will now have to rebuild and prove his worth to Golden Boy.

What makes it strange is how it compares to his comeback bout with Molina. This bout with Diaz holds some interest to a neutral and is on paper at least somewhat competitive. The bout with Molina was none of these things; it was a soft-touch opponent for Khan to gain some confidence back and as close to a certain win as one can get in boxing. It seems to me that having the Molina bout in the UK and the Diaz bout in the US would be more logical. It is this seemingly strange decision that makes me suspect Golden Boy are starting to lose patience with Khan and his ability to produce good financial numbers for them.

That said, there is one other possibility. Golden Boy have recently set in motion a move into the UK, notably signing ex-Olympian Anthony Ogogo, it could well be that they want Khan to spearhead that move. Despite his recent losses Khan is about as big a name left in UK boxing with Hatton and Calzaghe retiring and Haye semi-active (with all due respect to the likes of Froch, Fury and Brook). Having his name value in the UK is a way for Golden Boy to guarantee their prospects get both attention and TV time. That said, if this is the reasoning then I’d expect more to come from Golden Boy hyping it; so far they’ve been somewhat quiet.

Let me start out by saying that Julio Diaz is a clear improvement on the limited Carlos Molina who Khan comprehensively defeated in his return to action after his brutal loss to Danny Garcia. Yet he, on paper, shouldn’t be a threat to Khan in his British return.

So who is Julio Diaz?

The headlines are he’s a 33 year old Mexican boxer based in California with a record of 40 wins, seven losses and one draw, 29 of those wins coming by stoppage. The highlight of his career so far was probably a period between 2004 and 2007 when he held the IBF version of the World Lightweight title two times. On paper that’s a solid enough record… but it’s worth looking behind it.

Diaz has a tendency to lose to the best fighters he faces. In his first major bout he lost to a faded Angel Manfredy. He lost his first IBF World Title in his first defence when knocked out by Jose Luis Castillo. His second reign came to an end when he was broken down by Juan Diaz and many thought his career was essentially over when he was sensationally knocked out by the hard punching Kendal Holt at 140lbs.

That’s not to say there’s no depth to Diaz’s record. He’s scored wins over some decent opposition in his time; Ernesto Zepeda, Courtney Burton, Jesus Chavez, Ricky Quiles, David Torres and Herman Ngoudjo were all decent boxers on fairly good runs of form when Diaz beat them. That’s not to say there weren’t loses at that level as well… gatekeeper Victor Manuel Cayo beat him at 140lbs, Rolando Reyes beat him at the end of his 135lbs run and he was taken out in a round back in 2002 by Juan Valenzuela.

So overall what do we have?

The general picture is of a good boxer at 135lbs who was able to beat solid opposition but never quite managed to win “the big one”. At 33 and having been in a number of wars he’s probably past his best and as a guy who spent much of his career at 135lbs he’s likely to be a little on the small side.

A ray of hope for Diaz comes in his recent form. Many thought his career was over with the above mentioned loss to Holt but he’s rebuilt at 147lbs and actually found some good form, picking up two stoppage wins over fairly decent opponents and most impressively taking Shawn Porter… a very well regarded US prospect… to a draw in what was meant to be Porter’s coming out party.

What of Diaz the boxer? One thing to note is that he can certainly punch a bit. 29 stoppages in 40 wins isn’t shabby and it’s certainly of importance that he carried his power up to 147lbs. However he’s a little chinny himself, having been stopped in five of his seven losses. He’s a well rounded boxer who can fight well on the inside or outside. He’s not particularly technical and has a leaky defence but makes up for this with a busy style based around eye-catching combinations. When he puts it together offensively he looks like a world beater and he keeps himself in good shape, able to keep throwing those combinations for 12 rounds. The problem has always been the defence mentioned above.

So where does that leave him against Khan?

Khan is still in the early stages of his new relationship with Virgil Hunter having left Freddie Roach and as such he’s likely still in the process of adjusting his style. Regardless of the changes Khan remains a boxer with immense physical talents, notably his speed, from which everything else builds. When on the front foot he generally relies on a jab followed by the straight right, leaping in and out using his speed to both open up opportunities and get him out on trouble. On the back foot he looks to counter, making an opponent reach for him before stepping in with single shots.

Khan’s lanky frame, speed and power means he’s found considerable success but there are… or at least have been… weaknesses. The most infamous one is his chin. While it may not be quite as bad as people sometimes describe it there’s no doubt that it’s fairly fragile. What makes this worse is a combination of Khan’s mindset and technical skills. Technically he’s limited… his footwork is average at best, he finds himself off-balance and his defence certainly isn’t impenetrable. Those things combine together to mean that Khan can get hit… and when he does get hit he’s often off balance.

However mindset may be the key issue. When hurt Khan doesn’t clinch or cover up or try to spoil or even particularly try to survive. What he tries to do is bite down on his gumshield, plant his feet and try and punch his way out of trouble. While this makes bouts exciting it’s not been good for Khan who never really gets a chance to recover and ends up eating shots. Nothing symbolises this more than the Garcia bout. Khan eats a monster counter shot but manages to make it back to his feet and survive the round. In the next round instead of getting his feet back under him he comes out swinging and keeps eating shots. Every time he eats a shot he backs away just a little but then tries to punch his way out of trouble. The result is he never recovers from that first blow and is eventually stopped. Khan also has difficulties on the inside. During his bout with Peterson Khan struggled whenever the American got near to him and eventually had to resort to pushing him away.

There weren’t many drastic changes for Khan’s first bout under Hunter and in truth Molina wasn’t the sort of opponent that he needed to show improvement against. Khan was a bit more settled then he had been previously and fought with less of an unnecessary bounce in his step but after a single camp together one can’t expect to see many differences in style. This is a better chance to see what the pairing can do.

Khan and Diaz mirror each other to an extent… both offensively dangerous, both defensively suspect and both with chins that can be cracked. That said, I think Khan has a clear edge. His speed means he should be able to hit Diaz without being hit himself and Diaz isn’t a natural counter puncher. If they are drawn into exchanges then Khan’s speed should again tell; Diaz leaves openings while punching.

Khan’s chin means there will always be doubts and Diaz has the power to cause him difficulties. But I think Diaz’s own weaknesses tell. Diaz will try hard and may even cause Khan some difficulties if he can regularly pin him down or get to the inside. I think Khan’s speed tells however.

Khan TKO in eight rounds after an enjoyable bout.

Hussein goes for Reebok Return

Tyneside’s Cruiserweight pugilist, Akash Hussein (2-2) makes his in-ring return on the night of March 9^th as he steps back into the boxing ring against a yet to be named opponent.  Originally down to fight in Manchester this coming Friday, it was announced earlier today that his opponent had pulled out. However, his new management team have moved fast to get Hussein another date.

Since his last outing, when he suffered a 97 second, shock first round stoppage to debutant Paul O’Hagan, coupled with previous problems, something drastic was required in the pugilistic story of Akash Hussein. That arrived in the announcement in December 2012 that the 20 year old would be leaving his roots behind and embarking upon the chance of a lifetime, a training camp under the watchful eye of two-time former world champion, Tim Witherspoon and his sibling, Tim Witherspoon Jnr.

It has been six weeks of pure boxing for the young Hussein, who made a number of sacrifices in order to make the move a reality. However, it is the dream that keeps him going and he said that “I am blessed to have been given such a chance to go in the first place, let alone being able to go back.

“I will be fighting on a big show at the Reebok Stadium and I have sacrificed a lot in order to be able to do this. My mind is very much set now for this upcoming fight.”

Although there has been the highlights of the American lifestyle for Hussein, including a recent trip to the home of boxing, Madison Square Garden, on January 19^th for a showcase of title action when Mikey Garcia faced Orlando Salido (WBO Featherweight), Gennady Golovkin against Gabriel Rosado (WBO/IBA Middleweight) and the bout between Roman Martinez and Juan Carlos Burgos (WBO Super Featherweight), a night he said was “electric and an amazing experience.” There has been much more, so much more, especially the training regime endured.

Glutton for punishment though Hussein will be returning to Philadelphia, PA to continue his training where he has been sparring the likes of Yusaf Mack, Steve Cunningham and Ryan Coyne, amongst several other top name fighters.

“It’s good to be in that sort of society,” Hussein continued.

“It is an expensive living but I have no regrets. I could not have done it though without the help of my family and management team, especially financially. I know that I have messed up a little bit in the past and there are a few things I don’t want to go through again.

“I have a brilliant strength and conditioning coach in Altaf (Rahamatulla Snr) and that is something I have needed. Hopefully the results of all this will be shown when I take to the ring in Bolton on the 9^th March. That will be my big day.”

Akash Hussein also paid tribute to his sponsors – HM Residential Properties, MA Brothers, Fazals Sweet House and Lonsdale, to which he attributed them as being “more than a great help to me so far in my career.”

Anyone interested in following Akash to Bolton for his bout then there is a coach from Newcastle, tickets are priced at £30, and you can contact him either through Facebook or calling 07599999903.

The immediate consequence of this is that ESPN Classic is likely to disappear. I doubt there will be many tears shed over this; ESPN classic was not a channel you set your watch by and its content consisted of shows repeated ad-nauseum.

That said, a major part of its content consisted of boxing shows. To take today (25 February 2012) as an example one could watch Lewis vs Bruno, Cassius Clay/Muhammed Ali vs Liston 1 and two best of Sugar Ray Robinson highlights. In these days of youtube, torrents and google it’s a lot easier to watch such bouts compared to how it once was but for those times when you’re channel surfing it was always nice to have some classic boxing to watch.

What may be more important is what it represents. The main ESPN channel hasn’t really focused on boxing, limiting itself to the World Series of Boxing semi-pro league and instead aiming its combat sports coverage at MMA (or at least the UFC). But boxing remains one of the feathers in Sky’s sporting cap and with BT aggressively targeting Sky’s market it may wish to make a punt at getting more boxing on-screen.

I have mixed feelings on this. On one hand it’s always better to watch more boxing than less and likewise competition between TV networks will likely drive up the money promoters and boxers can demand. On the other hand boxing coverage is already fragmented in the UK. Sky continues to be one of the major forces but in recent years Frank Warren’s BoxNation and Channel 5 have moved in on the act, Eurosport continues to broadcast some shows (primarily European) and since being dropped by Sky Frank Maloney has put some of his domestic bouts on the little known Loaded TV.

Boxing being so fragmented makes it harder to follow (and if you have to subscribe to both BoxNation and ESPN more expensive) but it also makes bouts harder to happen. I’m pretty confident that one of the major reasons the bout between Tyson Fury and David Price couldn’t be made was disputes as to how it fitted in Channel 5 (who have invested a lot in Fury) and BoxNation’s (who have invested in Price) schedules and plans.

So as things stand, little to fear… but perhaps something to keep an eye on.

1) Amir Khan vs Bredis Prescott

What Happened Before?

Life was looking great for Olympic silver medallist Amir Khan. 18-0 (with 14 stoppages) Commonwealth champion, being positioned for a title shot. Already a household name in the UK he’d just signed with Sky and executives were busy predicting how many PPV buys they could squeeze out of his seemingly inevitable run to a world title. The first step was for Khan to face virtually unknown Columbian Breidis Prescott. Sure he had a pretty record… 19-0 with 17 stoppages… but those stoppages came against abject Columbian opposition and in his lone bout outside his home country he’d struggled immensely in winning a split decision over Richard Abril. Surely nothing for Khan to worry about?

What happened?

54 seconds after the opening bell Khan was slumped over semi-conscious in the corner, one of the definitive images of his career. There had been concerns about Khan’s chin previously… notably when the light punching Willie Limond had put him down hard… but here they were on display for the whole world to see. Dropped in virtually the first exchange Khan never recovered and was finished as soon as Prescott landed his next clean shot.

What happened next?

Many people proclaimed Khan’s career over but a combination of smart matchmaking and Khan’s own skill meant he rebuilt well. After a soft touch comeback and a controversial cut stoppage win over the legendary but faded Marco Antonio Barrera he moved up to 140lbs and won a world title with a clinical boxing display against Andriy Kotelnyk. Five successful defences followed and there was real talk of Khan facing US superstar Floyd Mayweather before a disputed loss to Lamont Peterson saw Khan lose his belts. His return against Danny Garcia brought him full circle… knocked down and badly hurt with real questions about his future career hanging over him.

Prescott was never really able to make anything from the Khan win. His record is a pedestrian 6-4 and those four losses have seen him drop out of title contention. He’s still a contender and the Khan win certainly gave him name value (as well as the truly awful nickname “The Khanqueror”) so he’ll likely continue to get high profile bouts.

2) David Haye vs Carl Thompson

What Happened Before?

At 10-0 the 24 year old David Haye was being fast tracked to success. He had the look, he had the mouth, he had the charisma, he had the skill and he certainly had the power. 10 stoppages, all within the first four rounds and all seemingly without breaking a sweat. Carl Thompson was 40 years old and despite his reputation as one of the toughest men in boxing it was assumed age had caught up with him. He was meant to be a speedbump on Haye’s road to a world title, a nice name to have on his record and a guy who might make Haye box for a few more rounds then he was used to… but little more.

What happened?

For four rounds Haye threw the kitchen sink at Thompson and always seemed a mere moment from a stoppage, that just one more punch would be enough to give him the win. But that punch never landed. Thompson bit down on his gumshied and took everything Haye could offer until the younger man had punched himself to exhaustion. By the 5^th round Haye was utterly drained by his efforts and virtually helpless when Thompson began his own attacks. Thompson dropped him twice and while Haye never stopped trying his corner took mercy and threw in the towel.

What Happened Next?

Haye learnt a lesson from this bout and focused on his conditioning and style. He was still explosive and aggressive but he was less reckless with his shots and showed the ability to go deep into bouts. Three months later he returned and over the next three years moved through the rankings, ending with a world title shot against the consensus best in the division Jean Marc Mormeck, where he pulled himself off the canvas to knock out the Frenchman in seven rounds. He destroyed fellow cruiserweight champ Enzo Macrinelli in two rounds and then moved to heavyweight where he found relative success despite his bite being worse than his bite and a tendency for tasteless antics and brawls.

Thompson only fought one more time, winning a comfortable decision over Frederic Serrat. The Haye bout was a fitting penultimate bout, showcasing Thompson’s combination of power, toughness and determination which had previously brought his the WBO belt.

3) Paul Ryan vs Jon Thaxton

What happened before?

Hackney based Paul “Scrap Iron” Ryan was one of British boxing’s leading lights in the mid-90′s. 22-0 with 20 stoppages he was simply smashing his way to success. He’d destroyed British and Commonwealth champion Ross Hale (then 26-1) in a single round and won a couple of lesser WBO belts which meant he was highly ranked by the organisation. A world title shot was virtually a guarantee and his bout with the 10-3 Jon Thaxton was basically a keep busy bout. This was especially true when you considered that Thaxton was a last-minute replacement, brought in when original opponent American Gene Reed went missing.

What happened?

Ryan came in like he always did, stalking Thaxton down with a stiff jab, looking for a big punch to finish the bout.

He found it.

Unfortunately he found it landing on his chin.

With 50 seconds left in the first round Ryan appeared to be going through the gears, upping the pace and throwing combinations. Thaxton slipped most of them and then landed a near perfect counter hook which knocked Ryan unconscious.

What happened next?

Ryan never recovered. He was knocked out in the first round of his next bout, losing his titles and after knocking over a few soft touch opponents he was stopped in two rounds in an attempt to win the British title and retired afterwards.

Thaxton went on to be a great servant of domestic British boxing having a bloody war with Ricky Hatton (which you can see here) and facing a who’s who of prospects and contenders. He briefly retired after a car accident but returned and finally completed his dream of winning a British title. He spent a few years chasing a bout with Amir Khan which never materialised and briefly held the European belt. After losing it he went back to domestic level and generally struggled, losing his last bout to John Murray before retiring.

4) Randy Turpin v Sugar Ray Robinson

What happened before?

Sugar Ray Robinson is almost without dispute regarded as the greatest boxer ever and he was at his absolute pomp here. 128-1-2, eight years since his loss to LaMotta (a loss he had avenged multiple times), the welterweight and middleweight champion of the world. He was… and remains… perhaps the most perfect example of the sweet science that anyone has ever seen; technically near perfect, athletically gifted, a record studded with victories over all-time great boxers. In the days before PPV boxers had to travel to the fans and the bout with Turpin was the end of Robinson’s European tour. Hed toured in some style, beating up Italien, German, Swiss and Belgian opposition while barely breaking having to get out of second gear and travelling the continent in a pink Cadillac.

Turpin was not a bad boxer himself: 40-2-1 and a European and British champion when both belts really meant something. He was a good all-round boxer and noted for his defence, using his shoulders defensively and his arms to cover his chest and head. He could move, he could punch, he could box and he could fight but despite that he was the understandably huge underdog.

What happened?

As far as I’m aware there’s no footage of the first bout but the newspaper reports indicate that Turpin took the bout to Robinson. He aggressively closed in on the champion, avoiding Robinson’s own shots and pressuring him. By all accounts there was a sense of disbelief in the crowd, a thought that at some stage Robinson would have to take over… but that stage never came. Turpin continued his assault, eventually winning a decision.

What happened next?

Turpin was catapulted into the mainstream with the win and its fair to say he enjoyed it. His moment in the sun didn’t last long… in the rematch in America Robinson knocked out Turpin, giving rise to claims he was simply tired and distracted from his European tour during the first bout. Robinson continued his legendary career although as age caught up with him he started to fade… not enough that he wouldn’t continue to be the dominant force at middleweight for a decade to come.

Turpin in contrast never got back to that level. He continued to be an effective British and European level boxer for a while but his lone attempt to regain the middleweight title ended with a decision loss to Bobo Olson and he found himself losing to boxers he would have once beaten with ease. His retirement was not a happy one. He craved the attention he once had but his attempts at running a pub failed and his name value fell further and further. Declared bankrupt in 1966 he committed suicide by shooting himself after possibly shooting his four year old daughter twice.

5) Ricky Hatton vs Kostya Tzyu

What happened before?

Ricky Hatton was a popular boxer but not an incredibly well regarded one. He was 38-0 and had held the lightly regarded World Boxing Union world title for 15 bouts and four years but his opposition was generally on the soft side, consisting of poorly respected Americans and distinctly average Europeans. His rough and tumble style disguised some solid boxing fundamentals but to the boxing world at large he was a protected boxer coasting through a career.

Kostya Tszyu was anything but protected. A supremely talented boxer-puncher with power, skill and technique. He’d held some version of a world title for nearly a decade, dominated the likes of Shamba Mitchell, Zab Judah, Julio Cesar Chavez and Jesse James Leija and was generally regarded as one of the better boxers pound for pound in the world. He may have been out of the ring for a while but in general he was considered a far superior boxer to the crude Hatton.

What happened?

For 11 rounds the pair went to war. Not the sort of glorious war boxing highlights on youtube like to hype but the sort of down and dirty trench warfare that saps a boxers will and strength. Hatton would leaps back and forth, riding the lightning of Tszyu’s punches, getting to the inside where the pair would wrestle, grind, hit, hold and generally rely on the dark arts of boxing. Both fighters bent the rules, both fighters paid the price but in the 10^th round Hatton started to take over, to break down the unbreakable man. By the end of the 11^th Tszyu was done, his trainer throwing in the towel between rounds.

What happened next?

Tszyu didn’t officially retire but the fact he hasn’t boxed to this day means the Hatton bout was almost certainly his last. Hatton used the win as a spring board to move from a folk hero to boxing fans in the UK to a genuine boxing superstar, one of the biggest draws in boxing on either side of the Atlantic, and to superfights with Mayweather and Pacquiao. His recent comeback may have ended in failure but he appears to have put the demons that haunted his first retirement behind him.

6) David Price vs Tony Thompson

What happened before?

Price was a leading light of the new wave of British heavyweights, along with rival Tyson Fury, Derrick Chisora, Richard Towers and previous victims Sam Sexton and Tom Dallas. An Olympic bronze medallist the 6’8” heavyweight had looked near perfect as a professional, using a jab to dictate bouts and backing it up with crushing one-shot power in either hand. He may have limited his opposition to domestic level opponents… often of the more elderly variety… but he looked pretty good in dispatching them.

Thompson was a veteran contender, a man who had only lost in recent years to Wladimir Klitchko, arguably the best heavyweight on the planet. His last seven wins, dating back to mid 2007, had all been stoppages. That said, the level of his opposition in those bouts hadn’t been spectacular, he’d looked fairly awful against Wladamir and it appeared his best days were long behind him. He was brought in as a name value opponent for Price and a slight step up in competition but a boxer Price was expected to beat and beat well, especially when Thompson came in flabby.

What happened?

The bout was relatively quiet right to the end. Price slowly stalked Thompson, trying to establish his jab and time the veteran well enough to bring his more powerful right into play. Thompson moved around on the outside, probing and prodding but rarely engaging or committing to any shots. In the second round Price glanced Thompson with his right hand and landed some nice follow up shots… but when his next punch missed Thompson countered with a chopping shot that caught Price awkwardly and dropped him to the mat. While he made it to his feet it was clear that the Liverpool boxer was in no condition to continue and the bout was waved off.

What happens next?

This is a big win for Thompson. At 41 and with his recent losses to Wladimir his future career appeared to be little more than nights like this; a name opponent flown across the world to likely be beaten by the local contender/prospect who wanted some depth on his record. This win puts him up a level. It’s unlikely anyone would care to see him in there with either Klitschko brother but he’s now a viable opponent for the likes of title holder Alexander Povetkin or any of the slew of contenders circling around the top of the division… and he can get more money than he would. He already seems to be setting up a bout with Tyson Fury. Assuming Fury wins his US debut against Steve Cunningham (which he should) it’s a match I like and one that seems practical to put together.

For Price this may not quite be a disaster but it’s not far off. Some succour can be taken from Thompson’s record and experience but the real issue is what it says about Price’s chin. With the size of modern heavyweights a single punch can likely drop anyone but there have been questions hanging over Price’s chin for his entire career. As an amateur he was chinny… stopped in the Olympics and infamously dropped by Tyson Fury as amateurs when Fury was 18. As a pro none of his opponents had really been able to test his chin although there were warning signs; an old and overweight Matt Skelton buzzed him early on in their bout before Price’s power told. The biggest concern for Price and his handlers is whether this was just one of those punches, something that says little about Price’s chin overall, or whether it shows a real weakness that will always haunt Price. I fear it may be the latter and in that case Price may find himself hitting the ceiling of his pro career… towards the world level a boxer will get hit however good his defence.

For now I’d expect Price to rebuild for a bout or two, likely against either domestic opposition or weak European opponents, likely those who lack a punch. A single loss doesn’t end a career but there is no doubt that this was a big setback for Price… both in terms of his immediate future and his whole career.

Thompson bt Price (TKO 2)

Liverpudlian prospect David Price suffered a shock knockout defeat at the hands of Tony Thompson on Saturday night, throwing his world title aspirations into disarray.

Thompson, who at 41 years old is generally regarded as a faded force, landed a right hook in the second round that put Price on the canvas.

A stunned home crowd saw Price get back to his feet but fail to steady himself, resulting in the referee stopping the fight.

Price had been in menacing form and his last two outings saw him brutally destroy Audley Harrison in just 82 seconds and Matt Skelton in two rounds.

While American Thompson, who has only lost three times including twice to Wladimir Klitschko, was expected to be Price’s toughest test to date, the fight was still seen ultimately as a stepping stone to world glory.

“Tiger” Thompson had not read the script though and, following a non-event of a first round, responded to a Price onslaught with a cheeky short right hook that ended the fight.

In honesty the blow did not look overly powerful but it landed behind the ear which a despondent Price later claimed had completely disorientated him.

Questions will now be asked about whether promoter Frank Maloney has been protecting his charge too much by feeding him inferior opponents.

There will also be questions about the quality of Price’s chin, which has been a worry for many given his history of being put down several times as an amateur.

World heavyweight champions cannot afford to have fragile whiskers.

Most disappointingly for British boxing fans, the result probably puts the breaks on a collision course between Price and Mancunian Tyson Fury.

Fury, who has world title aspirations of his own, has been playing hard-ball in negotiations for years and this result is only likely to worsen that stance, with Price now being considered “damaged goods”.

However fighters have suffered devastating defeats before and come back stronger.

Maloney will remind Price that he guided Lennox Lewis back from two knockouts to become one of the best heavyweights of all time.

Though that will be little consolation for Price right now, who must now regroup and re-evaluate his route to the top.

Though for Price, who’s now stands at 15 wins (13 KOs) and one defeat, that will be little consolation right now and he must now regroup and re-evaluate his route to the top.

 On Saturday, Audley Harrison went into the last-chance saloon (for perhaps the sixth time) and emerged in one piece.

“A-Force”, one of the most derided characters in British boxing history, won his second Prizefighter igniting hopes that this victory can springboard him to another tilt at the world heavyweight title.

Prizefighter, an 8-man tournament consisting of three-round matches, has thrown up some fantastic nights of entertainment since its conception in 2008.

The format demands a lightning start and encourages boxers to go for an immediate knockout, and Harrison did just that in his quarter-final, walking Danish outsider Claus Bertino onto a left hand for the stoppage after just 25 seconds.

The first quarter-final had already been won by popular Irishman Martin Rogan, who won the inaugural event and holds a points victory over Harrison himself.

His battle with tough Pole Albert Sosnowski was one of the most exciting of the evening, which at one point saw Sosnowski knocked clean through the ropes into the first row of the crowd.

Rogan eventually stopped his man on his feet in the third round.

The other two quarters were won by Brixton rookie Ian Lewison, who impressively knocked out the supposedly-durable German Timo Hoffman in the first; and Brooklyn native Derric Rossy, who surprised pre-tournament favourite Travis Walker by winning a split-decision points victory after a turgid, scrappy affair.

Harrison vs Rogan was built up as the most intriguing match of the event but in reality their semi-final failed to catch fire.

Harrison, who was trimmer and more focussed than at any other time in the past five years, displayed the skills that won him an Olympic gold medal back in 2000, keeping Rogan at bay with his jab and capitalising on mistakes with sharp lefts.

The second semi pitted local favourite Lewison against Rossy, and in the second round it looked like Lewison was going to deliver the knockout that the London crowd were baying for.

On several occasions he hit Rossy with big left hooks that left the American with a bloody nose and swelling around the eyes.

However, Lewison ran out of gas in the third round, and eventually lost a narrow points decision.

Harrison, for whom “redemption” has been a common theme in his interviews over the past few years, went into the final favourite and justified this with a knockout in the second round.

In truth he looked far fresher than Rossy, who had been the distance in both previous matches and had not displayed any power that might threaten the Wembley fighter.

Rossy was put down two and half minutes into the first round and from then on embarked on a damage limitation mission until a sweet left ended it in the second.

Harrison, typically jubilant afterwards, claimed that he was ready for one more shot at the big time.

Of course, we’ve heard this all before – many times – but in A-Force’s defence his performance reminded viewers of his amateur pedigree.

At 41 years of age though, his chances of real glory were blown several years ago.

‘El Canon’ Finds a Cure to his Seven Year Itch; The Comeback

“The passion and love for the sport on Tyneside is second-to-none.”  

Tyneside Middleweight pugilist, Andrew ‘El Canon’ Buchanan (4-1; 2KO’s) is making an in-ring comeback after a good seven and a half year absence from the sport.  The upcoming Geordie Weekend Extravaganza, starting with the Black and White Fight Night at the O2 Academy, will bear witness to Buchanan’s comeback in which promoter Steve Wraith said recently that “Buchanan’s reason alone for making his comeback makes this fantastic.”

Buchanan’s last outing came at the Spennymoor Leisure Centre back in May 2005 when he defeated Howard Clarke (PTS4). Since then though, Buchanan has been conspicuous by his absence, until now that is. And for that the famed Tyneside sporting public can thanks Steve Wraith. In discussing his comeback, Buchanan not only paid tribute to the promoter, but also the support in the region.

“I’ve got the opportunities now with not only my children being older but also being able to strike a balance between work and life in general,” said Buchanan.

“I feel like I got the bug back when I attended Wraith’s promoters’ debut, Return of the Cash, in September last year. I was then looking to be on the Farewell to Fergie bill later in the year but my licence never came through in time.

“It’s going to be an epic night and the last time I fought in Newcastle was at the old Mayfair when I was still an amateur,” claimed Buchanan.  

“Steve (Wraith) is a bloke with big plans and big ambitions for boxing in the region. He’s a really nice guy and is someone who can bring big time boxing back to Newcastle. It is definitely the kind of thing that he is looking at.”

The Black and White Fight Night itself is something that Buchanan, his family and his ever increasing band of followers are much looking forward to. Even his children are taking an interest in daddy’s boxing gloves and the like.

“I feel in a much better condition physically than when I was 21,” Buchanan admits.

“I’ve got my heart back for the sport and I can thank both Wraith, and my trainer Mickey Duncan for that. We get on well and the training we do is top notch. I’ve even managed to get myself down from 14st 10lbs to a dead 12st at present.”

The future and fan base of Buchanan is something that also weighed on the pugilists mind and he finished by saying that “the support is there from the Geordie public, that’s for sure. Not just for me but all the fighters and they will be getting to see what is on offer come fight night.

“The atmosphere there is going to be brilliant and will be the definite continuation of something good and, for me; it would be a privilege for me to get some sort of the title opportunity in the near future, to fight for it in Newcastle. 

“It is a massive thing for any of us and those big nights are long overdue.

“As for my fans, those that never had the chance in the past are starting to get behind me again and I am looking to build on that.”

Andrew ‘El Canon’ Buchanan is looking for an exchange sponsorship deal with local businesses (even further afield). If you would like to know more then you can contact him, via email, on abuc2403@sky.com

WRAITH PROMOTIONS will be staging its third Pro-Boxing Show in the heart of the city centre at the 02 Academy on Westgate Road. Topping the bill will be the returning Andy ‘El Cannon’ Buchanan, as well as fellow Geordies Robert Ismay, Mark Clauzel, Davey Ferguson Jnr and Paul O’Hagan. Keep checking back for the undercard and ticket details which promises to be the biggest and best yet. Tickets will be priced at £30 and are available from the fighters on the card, and from Wraith Promotions, or calling 0191 2299631.

“If we shout loud enough then people will hear us. These fights need a big stage to be seen in. We are a north east squad if you will.”

Isy comes on board for the Black and White Fight Night

Steve Wraith, of Wraith Promotions, can now announce a fifth addition to the upcoming Black and White Fight Night at the O2 Academy in May. Newcastle’s undefeated Light Heavyweight Rob ‘Isy’ Ismay (7-0; 2KO’s) becomes the latest addition for the Geordie extravaganza. 

Isy, who was missing with an injury from the last Wraith Promotions show in November due to an injury sustained in the Borough Hall PTS4 success over Jody Meikle. Having sustained a broken hand in the entertaining bout, Isy has been a frustrated bystander as others have taken centre stage. Now though he is back, and in his hometown.

The 25 year old, who made his professional debut with a PTS4 success over Marek Babic at Rainton Meadows in September 2011, registered five outings over 2012. Two of those were victories over Meikle, the first being an impressive first round stoppage at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens on the Brian Rose – Max Maxwell undercard.

The other three outings prior to his hand injury would see Isy defeat those of Tony Shields and James Tucker (both PTS4) and a success against Phil Goodwin (PTS6) over six-twos. Conversing prior to the show at the O2 Academy back in November 2012, Isy was full of praise of the addition of Tyneside’s Steve Wraith to the region’s boxing roster, stating at the time that it can do nothing but good.

His non-appearance back then will only fuel him more for the outing on May the 18^th. Isy stating back then that “It is excellent for the lads up here and a good experience for us all.

“You have the Dickinson’s who have already got somewhere but we do need more exposure, more so from that of Sky Sports and the other big names.

“The place will be packed out for it. Mark my words on that one.”  

Fast forward near six months and that same sentiment will be looked at ringing true having had to contend with outing in enemy territory for so long.

WRAITH PROMOTIONS will be staging its third Pro-Boxing Show in the heart of the city centre at the 02 Academy on Westgate Road. Topping the bill will be the returning Andy ‘El Cannon’ Buchanan, as well fellow Geordies Robert Ismay, Mark Clauzel, Davey Ferguson Jnr and Paul O’Hagan. Keep checking back for the undercard and ticket details which promises to be the biggest and best yet. Tickets will be priced at £30 and are available from the fighters on the card, and from Wraith Promotions, or calling 0191 2299631.

Fourth Geordie added to May Show, and a new sponsor.  

“People are starting to back the dream for boxing on Tyneside and I love it.”

Tyneside boxing promoter, Steve Wraith, is moving quickly to put a finalisation on his next boxing show in May at the O2 Academy. Having already officially announced those of Andrew Buchanan, Paul O’Hagan and Davey Ferguson Jnr, Wraith Promotions can now announce the addition of Tyneside’s undefeated Light Middleweight, Mark Clauzel (6-0; 2KO’s).

“I’m delighted to have Mark on board,” claimed Wraith when he made the announcement earlier today.

“To me he epitomizes that of north east boxing, especially when you look at the injuries he has had amongst other things, and that he still has an unblemished record.

“He is ready and willing to step up and this is something we have both wanted to happen for a number of years now and I am delighted to be able to have him on this show. He wants to fight in Newcastle and this announcement is showing that this is going to be big for both Geordie boxers and their fans.”

Clauzel was down to be on Wraith’s last show at the Academy, in November 2012 but injuries put paid to the appearance of two of Tyneside’s finest, both Clauzel and Rob Ismay. With that in mind, Clauzel’s last professional outing was back in July 2012 at the last Summer Rumble (PTS4 vs. Steve Spence at the Stadium of Light).

The past twelve months is not a time he wants to remember any time soon and he added that “I just want to put 2012 behind me now and forget about it all, too much went against me.

“I want to concentrate on what is happening now, in 2013, and get out as much as possible. I’m down for both Rainton Meadows in April and the O2 Academy in May and looking at possible a third outing before the summer,” continued Clauzel.

“I’m looking at cleaning up and knocking people out. I’m going for non-stop action and all out punching. I’m buzzing for this show in particular and it should be really good for the Tyneside area. I’m already planning on going down to Manchester as well as looking at some quality sparring with some of the local lads as we tend to help each other out quite a bit.”

Continuing on from his last statement released about the upcoming Black & White Fight Night, Wraith continued by saying that “we all have to take stock and look at how it is affecting people, especially when you look at the current climate and the continuing financial recession.

“I want to make this a great show and things are looking a little better now for not only the boxers but also for the fans themselves. It is a great time to be involved in the boxing and I hoping that I will have the bill tied up as early as next week. The addition of Clauzel is another one down and hoping for a few more additions, get their names down and get this event promoted quicker than usual.

“The increase in sponsors coming on board is really good for this show and others and I can now announce the addition of Unique Prospects in Sunderland.”

WRAITH PROMOTIONS will be staging its third Pro-Boxing Show in the heart of the city centre at the 02 Academy on Westgate Road. Topping the bill will be the returning Andy ‘El Cannon’ Buchanan, as well fellow Geordies Mark Clauzel, Davey Ferguson Jnr and Paul O’Hagan. Keep checking back for the undercard and ticket details which promises to be the biggest and best yet. Tickets will be priced at £30 and are available from the fighters on the card, and from Wraith Promotions, or calling 0191 2299631.

Wraith Promotions Changes Tack, For the Better

“I’m doing this for the fans.”

In an understandable turn around, Steve Wraith, of Wraith Promotions, has issued an instant press release in relation to the Black & White Fight Night professional boxing show on May 18th. 

Initially priced at £35, Mr Wraith has now reduced the costs of tickets for the show to help aid those suffering from the punch of the financial recession.

“Due to the backing of our sponsors on this show I am reducing the entrance to just £30 for my upcoming show in May. I am passing the backing that the sponsors have given me back into the hands of the baying Tyneside, and other, fight fans.

“I am also looking at organising better fees for the boxers this year as well. Without them then we would be nowhere at all and, as a promoter, I have a responsibilty to them. I need to look after the fighters that I put on my shows.

“At present there is plenty of money to go around and I am looking to give that little bit extra back. After all, it is the boxers that takes the punches and it is the boxers that look to enertain, not me.”

WRAITH PROMOTIONS will be staging its third Pro-Boxing Show in the heart of the city centre at the 02 Academy on Westgate Road. Topping the bill will be the returning Andy ‘El Cannon’ Buchanan, as well fellow Geordies Davey Ferguson Jnr and Paul O’Hagan. Keep checking back for the undercard and ticket details which promises to be the biggest and best yet. Tickets will be priced at £30 and are available from the fighters on the card, and from Wraith Promotions, or calling 0191 2299631.

A Black & White Fight Night Is Ready To Hit Tyneside

“I’ve done it this way intentionally with Newcastle at home to Arsenal the following day so we can have a good, sporting weekend, for the whole of Tyneside.”

It is looking like the end of the football season on Tyneside will be one of the best seen in a long time. A strategically placed, Black & White Fight night on the eve of Newcastle United’s last league match of the 2013 season against Arsenal means that sports fans on Tyneside will have a weekend to remember. Professional boxing hits the heart of Newcastle for a third time.

Looking to push on, not only from the success of his opening two shows last year, but the recent Loaded TV Supremacy show at Rainton Meadows, promoter Steve Wraith is ready to go again. With that the first three Geordie pugilists have recently been named as the showcase weekend gathers pace.

Andrew ‘El Canon’ Buchanan (4-1; 2KO’s) is looking to make a comeback after a near eight year absence from the ring. Buchanan made his professional debut back in December 2000 with a PTS4 success over Paul Johnson. Subsequent successes over Wayne Shepherd and Steve Simms were followed by a PTS4 defeat to Jason Collins in March 2002. It would be three years before Buchanan’s next and last outing, when he defeated Howard Clarke, PTS4, in Spennymoor. 

Also on the show will be that of Paul O’Hagan (1-0; 1KO), who made an impressive start to his professional career  at Cruiserweight with a 97-second debut stoppage of Akash Hussein on Wraith’s last show. He will be joined by Davey Ferguson Jnr (0-1) will be back in the ring after suffering a third round stoppage against William Warburton on Wraith’s promotional debut show back in September 2012. 

In discussing the fighters already announced Mr Wraith said of them that “Buchanan’s reason alone for making his comeback makes this fantastic.

“Having O’Hagan was a no-brainer really and I felt that he was my first real success as a success. Everybody knows that we have a history together from the white collar scene. Young Davey Ferguson will also be on and, although his debut didn’t go to plan, as well as the situation surrounding big Fergey on the last show, we’re hoping for a case of third time lucky. Young Davey is ready to look at putting things right.”

The concept of this show has been in the offing for some time already and was rumoured towards the back end of 2012 that it would likely be around the April-May period for the show. Now, with the framework already in place, the O2 Academy being gracious hosts and the Grosvenor Casino, alongside MT rec Recruitment and Holler are already on board as sponsors of the show.

In discussing the impending third professional boxing show for Steve Wraith and Wraith Promotions he said that “I’ve called it Black & White Fight Night for several reasons and my aim last year was to bring professional boxing back to Newcastle, now I am looking at what else can be done throughout this year.

“I’m also going for my managers’ licence in the summer so that is something else to look forward to and that I would be able to bring to the table.

“Announcing this show now means we have a lot of time to plant the seeds in the minds of the masses and give the fighters in the region double the opportunities to showcase themselves. I’m well aware of other shows on in the region prior to mine and I will have to take into consideration and we understandably can’t stage anything as big as the Rainton Meadows show as yet but it is still early days with this one and we will be looking at an all-Geordie, home show.”

In mentioning the recent Rainton Meadows show, where Birtley’s Jon-Lewis Dickinson retained his British Cruiserweight strap courtesy of a UD12 over Sunderland’s Davey Dolan. On that show were several Geordie’s, and that pleased Wraith who added that “it was a great show to start the year off for the region’s fight fans and there was two great performances put in from Nella (Anthony Nelson) and (David) Lake.

“I would love to see Lake back on in Newcastle even though he has lost recent bouts to Copey and young Tommy Ward, there is no shame in that, and he’s a great talent. I also have massive respect for Rob Ismay. That and we have a few fighters coming back from injury as well.

“I’m hoping to have at least seven or maybe eight fights on the card and am hoping for a bit better luck on the injury front as well.”

Not only that but in closing, promoter Steve Wraith also mentioned that he is looking towards the future of boxing on Tyneside and what it means to him, which can be seen in the masses in regular attendance at the O2 Academy shows.

“I have plenty of meetings lined up and awaiting certain phone calls,” Wraith continued.

“Dickinson and Maloney have imitated of a title defence in Newcastle so I will be looking at working with them and Loaded TV on that if possible. There are several possible venues for it but we need to wait and see what happens but I would love to be involved in that in some capacity. Who wouldn’t?

“I’ve said it before though and I will say it again, I am in this for the long haul and have a vested interest in the sport as a whole and I want it to succeed, not only for myself but for the region. 

“I love being a part of it all and there will be bigger and better nights to come, that’s for sure.”

WRAITH PROMOTIONS will be staging its third Pro-Boxing Show in the heart of the city centre at the 02 Academy on Westgate Road. Topping the bill will be the returning Andy ‘El Cannon’ Buchanan. Keep checking back for the undercard and ticket details which promises to be the biggest and best yet. Tickets will be priced at £35 and are available from the fighters on the card, and from Wraith Promotions, or calling 0191 2299631.

Dickinson vs. Dolan goes the distance in British Title Classic

Jon-Lewis Dickinson (13-2; 3KO’s) and David Dolan (16-5-1; 3KO’s) went the distance back in July 2011 when the pair clashed for the first time for the Northern Area Cruiserweight title. Fast forward around nineteen months and the pair clashed again, this time for the British Cruiserweight title. A lot has changed for the pair since that first outing, and, although this went the distance as well, the outcome was seemingly never in doubt. The champion, Jon-Lewis Dickinson, is far from ready to relinquish his coveted Lonsdale belt.

Since that first meeting Dickinson has gone on to bigger and better things in defeating Chris Burton (TKO2) , Matty Askin (UD10, for the English) and Shane McPhilbin (UD12, for the British); Dolan on the other hand has been left wanting and has found himself in two, four-threes against Tayar Mehmed (PTS4) and Simeon Cover (PTS4). Dickinson though was quick to state after winning the British title that his first defence would be against the experienced Dolan, and so it proved.

“My last twelve round bout was my second meeting with Rob Norton back in 2010,” claimed Dolan.

“If I had been more active, or fought over longer rounds over the past year or so, as Jon has, then things could have been so very different. That’s what I want now, longer rounds, not fours, they aren’t good for me and I need more – six or eight round outings would be better.”  

The bout itself could be a seen as a two sided affair as Dolan came out of the blocks with the bit between his gloves, taking the challenge to Dickinson and seemingly putting him on the back foot from the off. Both would be seen to trade some good blows during the opening rounds, Dolan putting in some combinations. As the bout progressed though Dickinson grew into his own and started top open Dolan’s defence, catching the challenger with a good left that left him wobbly and reeling.

At the start of the seventh there was a visible, cross ring stare down between the two combatants as it was becoming more obvious the bout would go the full twelve. Both knew that they were now in a battle, an expected battle, between two of the regions finest pugilists. Some great shots to the body were being traded by both during the seventh as they tried to eke an opening out of the other. The bout was becoming too hard to call.

Then there was that of the eighth, a strong eighth as well, from the champion. Racing out of his corner it seemed that everything Dickinson threw at Dolan, connected. The challengers defence was being opened up and was regularly caught off guard. Blows were flying from every which way possible. The more the rounds progressed the more Dickinson was urging Dolan to come at him and wearing the challenger down.

It got to the stage that, in the eleventh round of an exhilarating contest, Dolan was firing hopeful shots at the champion but without effect. Dickinson though was well on top now and saw out the final rounds having ascertained the upper hand. For all of that though, Dolan was always in with a shout of causing what would have been an upset of sorts and gave more than his all if not more. The final decision though was left with the judges with two scoring the bout 118-111, the other 117-112, in favour of the defending champion, Jon-Lewis Dickinson.

“It was brilliant and the kind of fight I really wanted to be in,” said Dickinson when looking back on his night.

“I like a good battle which it was so I enjoyed it more. Even though I hurt my right hand midway through the bout, meaning it was a little more difficult for me, I felt as though I controlled it from the start.”

Dolan though felt unsure as to how the decision would go and added himself that “I knew that it would go the distance again. Jon seemed to be flicking me with shots but they were being scored as well but I feel as though he never really landed a shot on me.

“Not a great deal sticks in my mind and looking back I feel as though he just nicked it. The only real thing that does register is when he caught me in the eighth. But then every time I have challenged for the British title they have been close affairs as it is. This was no different.”

The future for both combatants though is a one that is very different indeed. Dickinson going for a second title defence, hoped to be in his hometown of Newcastle, whereas Dolan has stated he wants to carry on for now and keep busy, but not over four-threes, a higher level. Feeling he still has much to offer the boxing world.

“I don’t know what is out there for me right now so I am going to have a little time out and see what happens,” Dolan continued.

“I don’t know what opportunities are available but hope some sort of title shot comes my way, if not then a decent fight straight away. I don’t really want it to be over fours, would prefer six or eight, which would be better for me. That’s the big thing now, to try and keep busy if possible.

“Then, if that title shot came back around then I would be 100% better off as I have had this one so it would make it a little easier. The opportunity was there for me, I took it, but it never worked out.”

The immediate future for Dickinson sees him on holiday for a week in the beautiful country of Egypt with his partner, Kate before coming back to a toned down training schedule whilst the next defence is sorted out. He won’t be watching himself though, he doesn’t like it, and he concluded by saying that “I’m not really keen on watching myself as I can’t relax. I haven’t watched the Askin or McPhilbin fights and won’t be watching this either to be honest.

“As for what is next then hopefully we can get a show in Newcastle with which I can’t see any problems in it happening really. Everyone seemed happy with the fight and I will take on anyone they decide upon.

“I just have to wait and see and I’m hoping it will be around the middle of the year.”

The full Supremacy card results from Rainton Meadows, in association with Phil Jeffries and Frank Maloney, on Channel 200 Loaded TV, were as follows –

Ben Jackson PTS6 (59-56) Sid Razak; Travis Dickinson PTS4 (40-36) Jody Meikle; Paul Archer PTS6 (58-57) Kevin McCauley; Craig Dixon PTS6 (60-54) Marek Laskowski; Gary Cornish TKO4 Jakov Gospic; Anthony Nelson PTS6 (60-54) Francis Croes; Jon-Lewis Dickinson UD12 David Dolan (British Cruiserweight); Peter Cope PTS4 (40-37) David Lake; Danny Price TKO1 Tamas Bajzath; Gary Fox TKO1 Mark McKray

The Barmy Army see Cope remain undefeated

“They deserve the coverage they are getting.”

One of several quotes Hartlepool’s undefeated pugilist, Peter Cope (7-0), motioned in relation to his following, the Barmy Army, after Friday’s undercard derby success at Supremacy. Praise that is well deserved as they have helped create the image of the Peter Cope gliding through the professional ranks in today’s fight scene. A band of followers that aided him to the International Masters Super Bantamweight strap against Gavin Reid and then through his latest success, in another hard fought derby, this time with David Lake (3-4; 1KO) in a Super Featherweight clash at Rainton Meadows Arena.

“I felt as though I was always in control of the bout,” said Cope when he looked back on Friday’s PTS4 success.

“I should have taken it a bit sooner if I’m honest and finished it in the third but he scraped and gritted it out. If the bout was over six instead of four I believe I would have picked up a stoppage. I would have preferred six and I don’t think he could have overpowered me at all over that distance.”

The battle between Cope and Lake, the eighth of ten bouts on the Supremacy undercard, and one of three derbies (Dickinson vs. Dolan in the main event, and Nelson vs. Croes the other two) was as expected, a war. It was a war between two rather talented north east boxers that both went the distance and gave the baying crowd much delight.

Both came out blazing from the off and it took the fight to each other in what was a fiery start to an entertaining bout. However, the more the bout progressed, Cope was just that little stronger than Lake even though he seemed to be enjoying the battle that ensued. The bout would continue in the same vein throughout with Cope narrowly on top and Lake giving his all and far from being out of it.

At one stage though, Cope looked to have had the bout wrapped up having put his determined challenger on the canvass for what subsequently became an eight count. Cope and Lake though would enter the fourth with plenty seemingly still left in the tank, Lake finishing the stronger of the two.

It was one of those classic encounters that was not only to hard to call but the result of which would be hard one to take for the loser. For Lake, the outcome would go against him as the judges scored the bout 40-37 in Cope’s favour, and he now, unluckily, holds a losing fight record. Cope on the other hand remains undefeated and is very much got his mind set on what happens in and around the title picture.

“I would like to stay undefeated for as long as I possibly can,” claimed Cope.

“I’d like to fight as much as possible throughout this year and will be out in April, as well as getting a good few fights under my belt. Maybe have an area title shot as well before looking at maybe an English title opportunity next year some time.”

Although young Cope is still undefeated in seven since turning professional there is the minor issue of his still not having registered a stoppage success. It is a statistic he is well aware of, but does not faze him one iota and he continued by adding that “I’m not a massive puncher and I tend to wear opponents down with my work rate and array of combinations. I am more than fit enough to go the longer rounds as it is anyway.”   

And the increasing support by ‘Peter Cope’s Barmy Army’? A band of hardy souls that has not gone unnoticed by the undefeated one, and was provided with recognition in the Loaded TV commentary of the Supremacy show. Cope finished by stating that “I’d like to thank them for their continuous support and it’s great to have them alongside me, even more so when you consider how much they have to pay for tickets as well as the extras.

“They deserve the coverage they got.”

Adrien Broner bt Gavin Rees (TKO 5)

Welshman Gavin “The Rock” Rees last night became the latest fighter to attempt but fail to solve “The Problem” that is Adrien Broner.

In front of a packed Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, the Newbridge pugilist aimed to win a world title for the second time, but was completely outclassed by WBC lightweight champion Broner.

Rees was fired up by what he deemed a “lack of respect” shown by Broner during pre-fight press conferences, where the American claimed not to know Rees’ name or anything about him.

He was further angered by reports that some bookmakers were offering odds as long as 80-1 to emerge victorious.

Whilst those odds were frankly ridiculous, they were indicative of the pre-fight consensus: that Rees stood almost no chance of upsetting the brash Broner, who is undefeated and is considered a top 10 pound-for-pound fighter.

Everything about Broner – from his arrogant trash-talk, to his shoulder roll defence, to his lightning fast lead right hand – is reminiscent of a young Floyd Mayweather.

Rees started the brighter of the two, and attempted a few sizzling left hooks to knock Broner out of his stride, but from the start of the second round onwards, the American took complete control.

Round three saw Rees take several powerful shots to the head, and by round four he was facing a barrage of combinations from extraordinary angles.

Broner had his man on the canvas after a minute and a half of the round, with Rees doing well to defend himself long enough to hear the bell.

Round five was one-way traffic and Broner knocked down Rees again with a body shot, although there was some controversy as the referee appeared to be calling a break when the shot landed. Rees gamely continued but Broner proved Apollo 440 wrong by stopping The Rock with a second to go.

For Rees defeat to Broner was no disgrace, considering how expected the outcome was.

He remains a worthy operator at domestic and European level, but can now probably be considered a busted flush at world level.

For Broner, who now has 26 wins from 26 fights with 22 knockouts, superstardom beckons.

British fight fans may well be hearing a lot from him in the near future as a long-awaited match-up with Scottish WBO lightweight champion Ricky Burns looks increasingly inevitable.

Carl “The Jackal” Frampton has turned his attention to a world title following his capture of the European super-bantamweight title last Saturday.

Frampton won the strap in a hard-fought battle with crude slugger Kiko Martinez, becoming the first man to knock out the Spaniard in the process.

Martinez had promised to have too much for Frampton in a fiery build-up, and whilst this did not turn out to be the case, he undoubtedly provided The Jackal with his toughest fight to-date.

Indeed, in the first four rounds he repeatedly enjoyed success with hooks to both the head and body, forcing Frampton to box mainly on the back foot and look to capitalise on mistakes.

After the fight Frampton indicated that a world title was on his radar, though at present the more intriguing prospect is an all-British super-fight with Bolton’s Scott Quigg.

Frampton and Quigg have been on a collision course for years, with both commenting after the fight that a domestic dust-up was inevitable.

However Frampton’s promoter Eddie Hearn has suggested that a fight was still some way from being made, remarking that Frampton’s significant drawing power in Northern Ireland showed that “Scott Quigg needs Carl Frampton.”

Negotiations between the top two fighters at the weight in Britain may therefore prove tricky, with both sides believing they should have contractual superiority.

Tricky or not, Quigg/Frampton is undoubtedly one of the domestic bouts that UK fight fans most want to see.

Before Saturday the general consensus was that Quigg’s development is somewhat ahead of the Northern Irishman’s, but Frampton’s latest performance suggests that if he has not surpassed his rival, he has at least narrowed the gap.

Given how frequently the game-but-limited Martinez’s punches found their target, world title aspirations would appear to be somewhat premature.

Furthermore, super-bantamweight king Nonito Donaire is regarded as one of the best pound-for-pound boxers in the world and arguably the best boxer from the Philippines following Manny Pacquiao’s decline.

Frampton would do well to avoid the likes of Donaire for now, but if he continues to improve and deals with Quigg then a genuine push for world glory in 2014 looks realistic.

Undercard fails to disappoint at Supremacy

A Friday night at the Rainton Meadows Arena failed to live up to all the expectations of the baying north east fight fans as the Supremacy undercard, topped by the British Cruiserweight title bout, rocked the house. At points you didn’t dare look away or blink, because if you did, then you missed it. None more so than the last two bouts of the night that involved another Cruiserweight, Danny Price (8-0; 2KO’s) as well as the Northern Area Lightweight champion, Gary Fox (10-1; 2KO’s).

The evening’s action began with a pro debut for Spennymoor’s Ben Jackson as he took on the vastly experienced journeyman, Sid Razak (8-102; 3KO’s) over six-two’s at Light Welterweight. It was to be an impressive debut for the 19 year old as he took the fight to Razak from the off and showed an impressive work rate and steady skills throughout the bout. Razak had chances and came into the bout at the midway point or their outing but Jackson held on rather and was very much the equal of his opponent, if not more. The impending result would see the youngster claim a debut PTS6 victory as the judges granted him a 59-56 score.

The younger of the two Dickinson’s was next out as Light Heavyweight ‘Tasty’ Travis Dickinson (14-1; 5KO’s) took to the ring over four-threes against Jody ‘Entertaining’ Meikle (5-30-1; 1KO). Tynesider, Dickinson, was looking to dust off the disappointment of his loss to Ajisafe for the English strap in December gone, but was made to work throughout this bout, and work he did. Putting the rounds in, Dickinson had to contend with Meikle showboating and goading tactics throughout the encounter and really should have finished the bout within the allotted time. However, it’s all about the rounds and Dickinson traversed this one well amidst calls of ‘Travis is a Geordie’ from the travelling Team Dickinson. Come the final bell and Dickinson would collect a PTS4, 40-36 success and will now, surely, be looking to move himself back into the title picture as soon as possible.

Another Birtley lad, undefeated Welterweight, Craig Dixon (7-0), maintained his record over six-threes as he faced Marek Laskowski (1-1) in what was a tough six round outing for ‘the Birtley Bullet.’ Laskowski held his own against a more experienced opponent from the off but Dixon’s industry and work rate paid off as he made a successful step up to six rounds for the first time. Victory would be worth waiting for though as Dixon starts 2013 with that zero still intact claiming a PTS6, 60-54 result.

In some quarters there are calls for Dixon to face Paul Archer (7-0) for the Northern Area strap as Easington’s young Welterweight kept his unbeaten record intact, but only just, in a hard fought war with Kevin McCauley (10-48-3), again over six-threes. From the start of the bout the visiting fighter had Archer on the back foot and there were several points it looked as though the bout might not make the distance. Archer though has some durability within him, more so after this performance as he took some hard shots throughout. However, for all the work that McCauley put into the bout, Archer just managed to edge a narrow PTS6 victory as the judges gave him victory by one point, 58-57.

The chief support bout for Supremacy was a strong heavyweight contest between the undefeated ‘Highlander’ Gary Cornish (13-0; 5KO’s) and Croatian Jakov Gospic (11-7; 9KO’s) for what was to be an eight round affair. Both heavyweight’s tipped the scales at the weigh in with Cornish coming in at 17st 6, and Gospic at an impressive 18st and as they oppose in the ring it was soon obvious that it was to be a case of the brute force and bulk of Gospic against the supreme height and reach of Cornish, the latter winning out. Both fighters were throwing heavy shots at each other from the off and Cornish was made to work hard for his victory and, as the rounds progressed the combos from Cornish started to shine through. As they went into the midpoint, fourth round, of the contest, both combatants were showing some strong aggression but Gospic was caught, well caught, by ‘the Highlander’ and was put flat on the canvas. It was over as the referee utilised the ten count and Cornish collected an impressive KO4 to maintain his equally impressive undefeated record.

Other than the main event there was to be two other derbies on the stacked undercard as first South Shields’ Anthony ‘Babyface’ Nelson (5-0; 1KO) maintained his perfect professional record with a hard fought PTS6 success over Middlesbrough’s Francis Croes (1-20; 1KO) over six-two’s in what was, ultimately, a tough test for Nelson who was his usual, accomplished self, and at times explosive in attack. The more that Nelson attacked though the more young would Croes battle back, again and again and showed some impressive durability throughout.  Nelson taking the judges scores with a 60-54 success. 

The last two bouts of the evening were over in double quick time and showed that, within the fight game, blink and you’ll miss it. First the undefeated Cruiserweight, Scarborough’s Danny Price (8-0; 2KO’s) claimed a seemingly easy victory over Hungarian, Tamas Bajzath (5-4-1; 3KO’s). A quick smart Price put his opponent down twice in the first round before the referee stepped and ushered a stoppage after just 105 seconds of this six-threes. Price maintaining his undefeated streak with a TKO1 success and is now looking for a big year as he moves up through the Cruiserweight division.

Finally, as the midnight hour closed in, Fishburn’s Gary Fox (10-1; 2KO’s) made a big statement of intent in front of the Loaded TV cameras when he claimed a TKO1 victory of his own against the experienced Mark McKray (4-18-1; 3KO’s). Fox imitated beforehand that this was to be his toughest challenge to date, the commentators had to eat their words when claiming ‘the Foxinator’ would not have enough as well. All it took was eighty seconds though for the County Durham Welterweight to claim victory after rattling McKray, putting him on the canvas, then inflicting an all out assault to close the night in style.

In other news Doncaster based European champ Jamie McDonnell will take on dangerous Mexican power-puncher Julio Ceja for the vacant IBF Bantemweight belt.

Anderson giving up his British belt seems a little strange. He had to fight in and out of the ring to get it in the first place and as unfortunate as he’s been with injuries (a rematch with George Groves and a bout with James DeGale both got nixxed) it surprises me that he’d give up a title than may get him bigger bouts so easily. I’ve heard no rumours of injury so I can only assume he has something bigger lined up… perhaps a bout with either of the aforementioned two, although with both looking for world title shots, talented as he is I have to think Anderson would be a step back for them.

The bout for the belt could be a decent domestic contest. The pair fought previously (you can see the video here) with Smith winning a fairly wide decision after outboxing Dodson despite some headbutt induced cuts and a late flurry. At 30 and 32 respectively neither are old but I suspect both have their best days behind them; Smith has only fought once (and against an overmatched opponent) since being demolished by George Groves in 2011 instead spending his time as an analyst and commentator for BoxNation. Dodson has been fighting frequently but is an old 32 and hasn’t really beaten anyone of note since the early 2000′s and has spent much of the last decade feeding on scraps while losing when he steps up in class. On paper Smith should win… but the question is whether his time out of the ring has hurt him. I don’t expect either to go beyond domestic contenders and champions at this stage but the bout itself should be fun.

The Ceja vs McDonnell bout is intriguing. Most of the hype will be about Ceja, a 24-0 (with 22 stoppages) 20 year old prospect. He’s got a bit of depth to his record with wins over the like of Luis Melendez, Genaro Garcia, Ronald Barrera and Cruz Carbajal while also beating prospects such as Henry Maldonado, Cesar Javier Gandara and Alejandro Morales but he’s never fought outside Mexico and never gone more than 10 rounds (and only gone there once).

McDonnell may not have the obvious power that Ceja does (although her can certainly crack a bit) and two close loses early in his career take some of a gloss off his record but he’s proven to be a fine boxer with some good wins himself (including over my personal favourite Ian Napa). He’s been the 12 round distance five times and has gone deep into fights even if they didn’t last 12. He’s likewise only ever boxed in the U.K. so a lot may come down to where the bout eventually lands but if he can avoid Ceja’s power and take the fight deep he’s got every chance here.