Madcow's Standing 8 Count (6/29/09)

by Madcow

Aside from actually being written, this week's column will be a little different.

Last week, as you all know, Michael Jackson died. I have had a special relationship throughout my life with Jackson. No, I never got to visit Neverland ranch as a child and I was never able to share a can of Jesus Juice with the "one-gloved-one."

My connection with Jackson isn't even about music. Actually, I'm luke warm to his talents.

No. My link with Jackson goes directly through Lori C, Madcow's first love and a very fine looking High School Junior with bubble gum lip gloss and a teddy bear backpack.

I had taken "Ms. C" to the Junior Prom and, to spare all the details, that was the night your favorite bovine became a man.

On the way home, I turned on the radio in my clunker in absolute glee and the first song on the radio was "Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson. Not my type of music, but on that particular night, it was the greatest song I had ever heard.

So, this column is dedicated to Michael Jackson, "Billie Jean," and beautiful Lori C, who was more woman at 17 than all 3 of my wives put together. But enough with this sappy crap.

In a "Thriller," Marcos Maidana overcame knockdowns and all obstacles to force Victor Ortiz into submission. Now, after an embarrassing quit job and a non-fighter-like post-fight interview, Ortiz has to seriously take a look at the "Man in the Mirror" and decide if he really wants to continue fighting or if he just wants to "Beat It."

"Smooth Criminal," Oscar De la Hoya desperately tried to spin Ortiz's quit job into something quite the opposite, but nobody is buying it. Overall, it hasn't been a good time to be a Golden Boy prospect. Abner Mares split, Ortiz was just crushed and "King of Pop," James Kirkland is eating bologna and mayonaise sandwiches behind bars.

"Remember the Time" when PPV dates were reserved for only the elite fights, the best of the best? The Latin Fury show this Saturday was just, plain "Bad." I would like to run into the chump who paid 35 bucks to see this suck-fest so I can sell him some bumper car tickets at Neverland Ranch. Wake me up when Juanma Lopez starts fighting someone with a pulse.

Arthur Abraham defended his title against some guy named Oral on Showtime Saturday. I'm sorry, but the only thing I'm watching with the name "Oral" on it is a PPV movie from The Spice Channel.

Everything else this Summer has been a big let-down. Cancelled or postponed fights, combined with weak matchups. Boxing is in a serious "Jam" and needs to fix things fast or, maybe next year, there won't be anyone buying these shows for broadcast.

Well, seeing that its been a slow news Summer and that I've exhausted my Michael Jackson references, I think I'll end this special edition of Madcow's Standing 8 Count.

Besides, I've just called the escort service and told them to send their best; Doesn't matter if they're "Black or White," I just "Wanna be Startin' Somethin'." Now, "Leave Me Alone."

RIP Michael

Your Ad Here

Even The Yanks Agree: Bring Back Bunce!

One of my favorite weekly rituals was downloading Steve Bunce's Boxing Hour podcast and getting the 411 about what's happening in boxing. With just the right mix of journalism and pub-style fun, Bunce, along with co-host Andy Kerr, gave something to the sport that was sorely lacking...A professional centerpiece news magazine; Essentially, the Sportscenter of the Boxing world...

With the collapse of Setanta Sports in the UK, British fight fans will be missing out on some great action and, maybe just as important, the Bunce Boxing Hour will be silent.

In order for Boxing to keep afloat and maintain interest in a Summer full of cancelled bouts and an economy that is struggling, shows like "the Boxing Hour" are essential...and voices like Bunce's are crucial to keeping the fires burning until better days come.

The BTBC is urging its members, friends and fans to support the "Bring Back Bunce" campaign by signing the online petition and doing everything possible to bring this show back on the air so that the UK and fans from around the world can once again have this source for Boxing news and commentary.

http://www.bringbackbunce.net/

Your Ad Here

Maidana Conquers Ortiz in Wild LA Brawl.

From Fightnews.com:

In an all out war filled with spectacular exchanges, Marcos Maidana (26-1, 25 KOs) of Universum Box-Promotion scored a brilliant sixth round KO over hometown favorite Victor Ortiz (24-2-1, 19 KOs) to claim the interim WBA super lightweight title on Saturday night at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. Ortiz dropped Maidana during a wild exchange during round one, but was immediately floored in return by Maidana. Ortiz dropped Maidana twice at the end of round two. But Maidana hung in and turned the fight around with a huge round five, cutting Ortiz and continually rocking him with his right hand. Maidana went on the attack immediately in the sixth, flooring Ortiz again and the bout was stopped. Time was :46

*********

The source fails to mention the the ref's decision was preceeded by Ortiz practically turning his back on Maidana and indicating that he was done.

After the bout, the 22-year old Ortiz indicated that he may be considering retirement.

Maidana is now in line for a shot at the winner of the Khan-Kotelnik bout in July.

Your Ad Here

Former World Champ, Rocky Lockridge: Homeless

Former boxing champ Rocky Lockridge is homeless in Camden

This is a disgrace for the entire boxing world and yet another reason the sport desperately needs a national commission. We need to start taking care of the warriors who literally invest their hearts and souls into entertaining us.

Nothing should shame us more than a former champ who is literally begging for money on the street.

In case you're not familiar with Lockridge, he became the WBA Super Featherweight champion in 1984 via spectacular 1st round knockout of Roger Mayweather.

He also held victories over Cornelius Boza Edwards and took part in Ring Magazine's Fight of the Year in 1988 against Tony Lopez. In 1985, he lost a controversial decision to Puerto Rican legend Wilfredo Gomez in Puerto Rico.

Over the course of his 14 year career, he took on some of the very best, including: Mayweather, Lopez, Edwards, Gomez, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan La Porte, Rafael Ruelas, Sharmba Mitchell, and Eusebio Pedroza.

Rocky Lockridge finished his career in 1992 with a record of 44-9 (36 KOs)and is ranked as the 11th best Super Featherweight of all time by Boxrec.

Here is a look at Lockridge's stunning 1st round KO over Mayweather:

Your Ad Here

Nate Campbell Foils Robbery

Courtesy of Fightnews.com:

Former unified lightweight champion Nate Campbell foiled a strong arm robbery today in Tampa, Florida.

Campbell, along with advisor Terry Trekas were exiting a Publix Supermarket in Tampa when they witnessed two men snatch a purse from a woman loading groceries into her vehicle. Campbell and Trekas chased the suspects to a nearby apartment, where the suspects barricaded themselves inside. Multiple units from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrived on scene in minutes, and captured both suspects inside the apartment. The victim’s purse was found inside the suspect’s vehicle.

Sheriff officials on the scene advised Campbell that the men and their vehicle were suspects in at least six additional strong-arm robberies in the area.

“Man, look here. That could have been my mom, my sister, or my wife. If someone wants to jack a dope man or something, that’s one thing, because they chose that life. But to do that to this woman, who is just minding her business getting her groceries, man I can’t let that go. Had it been my mom or something, I hope someone else would do the same,” said Campbell.

Your Ad Here

Pacquiao: Exposed

by Madcow

Enough with the silliness, ok?

Everyone knows that most Manny Pacquiao fans wouldn't know a heavy bag from a douche bag, so I cut them some slack for a few weeks, but as the Pinoy Illusionist starts to wind up the hype machine for another bogus fight with yet another shell-shocked and boiled-down name fighter, I have no choice but to step in and bring some much-needed reality back to the boxing world.

Pacquiao, beyond a shadow of a bovine doubt, is sporting the most overblown, overrated ring record and list of accomplishments in, probably, the history of the sport. Sure, he beat a near-prime Barrera and Morales, but for crissake, how long can he coast along based on just two fights?

Instead of wasting my wonderful Madcow prose on a topic that makes me feel dirty inside, I'll just list the cold, hard facts behind the farce that is Manny Pacquiao:

• A lot has been made about Pacquiao winning 6 titles in 6 weight classes, but the downside never gets mentioned: In his entire career, he's only made 4 successful title defenses, with the last being way back in 2003!


• 5 Of Pacquiao's last 11 opponents came into their fight directly following a loss.


• Of his "history making" wins versus Barrera, Morales and Marquez, only the first Barrera win is without taint. His second win against Barrera was a farce, Morales was horribly shot by the time of their third fight and, actually, had been beaten solidly by Zahir Raheem before Pacquiao-Morales 2. And most everyone acknowledges that Marquez won the second Pac-JMM fight while some say JMM won both.


• Yes, Pacquiao started out at 106 lbs., but he was 16 years old! De la Hoya, at 16, weighed 106 lbs. too.


• After the toughest tactical fight of his career, Pacquiao went soft by picking on the weakest Lightweight champ around, David Diaz while still having unfinished business with Marquez.


• Ivan Calderon could've knocked out the Nicole Ritchie-esque Oscar De la Hoya that night they fought.


• Ricky Hatton is a bum and not even among the Top 5 best Jr. Welters.


• If you hate Mayweather, then you must hate Pacquiao even worse for absolutely perfecting the cherry-pick as Pacman insists on fighting only those who will give in to all of his wacky demands.

So, all in all, I'm glad to be the one to teach you the folly of your ways. Please address all thank you letters to Paul Magno's e-mail: boxing_times@yahoo.com. Make sure to write- Attn: Madcow so he can forward all your letters of apology and donated cash to me.

Now, go and find another hero who actually wants to make real fights.

P.S. Pacquiao's music sucks too!

Your Ad Here

Friday's Roundup: Molitor Bores, Jacobs Scores

Fighting with the urgency of old ladies at a Vegas buffet line, former IBF Jr. Featherweight Champ, Steve Molitor (29-1, 11 KOs) and Heriberto Ruiz (41-8-2, 23 KOs) simulated their way through 12 listless rounds of an IBF Super Bantamweight Title Eliminator.

Somehow, the judges were divided on the outcome as one judge scored it 116-112 for Ruiz and the other two had Molitor up by the same score. The BTBC had it scored firmly for Molitor, 118-110.

With the win, Molitor becomes the #2 contender for the IBF 122 lb. title that Celestino Caballero took from him last November and will face the #1 contender for either a shot at the title, or should Caballero vacate like many expect, for the title itself.

After the fight, Molitor's management said that their fighter will likely be fighting for the title by November of this year....Swell!

*********

Daniel Jacobs (17-0, 15 KOs) continued on his road to stardom by pummelling journeyman, George Walton (20-4, 12 KOs). Early on, the fight became little more than a sparring session for Jacobs who knocked Walton down in second and pretty much had his way throughout the bout.

The one-sided beating was waved off in the 8th by referee, Bobby Ferrara

Your Ad Here

Manny Pacquiao vs. Miguel Cotto: Meaningless

There, I said it. Pacquiao vs. Cotto is meaningless.

Now, before the loyal Pacquiao and Cotto fans, boxing's most bullishly loyal fans ever, begin to throw garbage at the screen, let me clarify a few things.

There's no doubt in my mind that this encounter will be exciting beyond belief, almost a sure candidate for Fight of the Year. Even the lead-in, with both fan bases going at it, will be amusing.

However, what purpose does this fight serve? Team Pacquiao has already said that they have no intention of campaigning at Welterweight and Cotto, should he win, will still have just a couple of decent fights available to him.

Nobody, other than the fighters' bank accounts and those of their management, stand to really gain much from this showdown of two indisputably talented warriors and pound-for-pound stars.

But, after the dust settles on this contest, the biggest loser will be boxing itself as we will be trading in one exciting hour of Cotto vs. Pacquiao for the short-term well-being of two absolutely stacked divisions.

For Cotto, fighting Pacquiao may be a nice injection of cash into the wallet, but it really stops his ultimate goal of Welterweight dominance in its tracks.

Should Cotto win, he would get a boost in publicity but there will still be only two fights that would make sense before he retires: Cotto-Mosley 2 and Cotto-Mayweather. So, ultimately, other than a few headlines and a payday, he gets nothing from fighting Pacquiao.

But should Cotto lose, he would lose everything. His career would effectively be over as it would no longer make good business sense for either Mosley or Mayweather to fight him. He'd be clear second-tier fodder...and that's if he even remained active.

Now, switching things up and looking at Manny, a win for him would be another notch on his belt and another huge payday, but it really earns him nothing else. He has no intention of campaigning as a Welterweight and a win would either force him into fighting foes with whom his team isn't a hundred percent sure, like Mayweather and Mosley or into retirement.

On the other hand, a loss would take him out of the Celebrity Boxing circuit and force him into tougher bouts for less pay, which may be a good thing since the Jr. Welterweight division is starting to heat up with the rise of Victor Ortiz and bouts like Timothy Bradley-Nate Campbell, Junior Witter-Devon Alexander and Andreas Kotelnik-Amir Khan on the horizon. These rising stars need their lineal champion to take on the best amongst them and not to be looking for genetically engineered celebrity exhibitions.

Sports have to maintain a narrative voice in order to be truly special. The big contests have to mean something and, more importantly, they have to follow through on a story; They have to bring closure to a long series of battles.

The LA Lakers could've had a more exciting, more profitable series against the Boston Celtics, but they had to beat the Magic to be crowned champions. Anything else would've been false and anti-climatic.

Boxing also has its own narrative and should follow through on its own story lines if it wants to stay long-term relevant in a sporting world that is continually marginalizing it.

To go the "Celebrity Boxing" route, as Nate Campbell called it, is a disservice to the sport and it's future. It shows a complete disdain for the natural order of things and it creates a permanent upper class where a handful of big names fight one another for big bucks while freezing the rest of the fighters out and refusing to allow any torches to get passed to the younger fighters.

Freddie Roach expressed this point of view in a recent interview from maxboxing: "Titles don’t really matter anymore. Its match-ups."

And that's fine and dandy for the one percent of fighters who can be considered "big enough" to sell a million PPVs, but what about the young prospects and the prime boxers still looking to grow? Unless a guy like Pacquiao or Mayweather is willing to fight once every three weeks to appease the fans, they are essentially creating a sport outside of the mainstream structure of the actual sport and further removing the fans from the game.

Boxing needs its biggest stars and it needs them to take an active part within their own divisions. It needs these stars to dominate in their prime, go to war when they're slightly past their prime and to pass the torch when they simply can't go on. That's the natural order of things in boxing and that's how the future stars of the sport are made.

Divvying up mega-paydays among a small group of fighters in cherry-picked contests and retiring when no more cash fits into your Brinks truck, is not in the best interest of the sport.

Pacquiao vs. Cotto may be a quick fix to some of boxing's short-term needs, but a meaningless fight only inspires more meaningless fights..and that can only be bad for boxing.

Your Ad Here

URGENT!

Smart Boxing Fans Needed for Boxing Forum!

-No Flame Wars
-No Trolls
-Many Quality Features and Benefits

The BTBC Boxing Community is looking to expand into something truly special and we need good, dedicated and loyal boxing fans to round out our membership roster.

Come and Visit Us: www.btbc.proboards.com

Your Ad Here

The BTBC News Wire (6/22/09)

(Updated Throughout the Day)

The fall-out from fights falling out
Danny Jacobs gets big shot on ESPN2
Juanma is Already Considering a Jump To Featherweight•
Wladimir Does a Go-Slow, Haye Pulls a No-Show
Rocky Juarez Plans To Fight on Ortiz-Maidana Card
Sources: Chris John is Ill, Juarez Rematch Postponed
Haye Fires Back at "Boring, Petrified" Wladimir Klitschko
Khan Continues To Talk About Fighting Ricky Hatton

Your Ad Here

The BTBC News Wire (6/21/09)

(Updated Throughout the Day)

Amir Khan questioned by cops over Molesting Allegations
Edgar Sosa Retains For The Ninth Time, Stops Melo
Arbitrator nixes forced V. Klitschko-Maskaev tilt
Hatton Comeback Talk Continues, Against Amir Khan?
Roach's Weight Demand Could Collapse Pacquiao-Cotto
Easy Walk For Klitschko, Claims The Lineal Crown
Freddy Curiel Returns with Win Over Francisco Osorio
Tye Fields Returns, Knocks Out Firtha in Six Rounds
Odlanier Solis Says "I Will End Wladimir Klitschko"
Klitschko Dominates, Batters Chagaev For The Stoppage
Andy Lee Decisions Olegs Fedotovs on Klitschko-Chagaev
Fernando Guerrero Stops Brian Norman In Two Rounds
Beltran Impressive In Tireless Effort Over Meza-Clay
Refusing Defeat, Pascal Outlasts Diaconu In 175 Lb. War

Your Ad Here

Klitschko Beats Chagaev with One Arm: It's Official! The Heavyweight Division is Dead!

by Paul Magno

Taking David Haye's place in today's heavyweight title fight against Wladimir Klitschko (53-3, 47 KOs) was Ring Magazine's #3 Heavyweight, The BTBC's #2 Heavyweight and The WBA's "Champion in Recess," Ruslan Chagaev (25-1-1, 17 KOs).

Surely, a battle between a #1 fighter and a #3 contender, at worst, would be a thrilling match-up with many ups and downs and shifts in momentum. I mean, look at recent match-ups between top 3 guys: Cotto vs. Clottey, Adamek vs. Cunningham, Timothy Bradley vs. Kendall Holt, etc...

But, in the Heavyweight division of 2009, quality control is not a legit concept...Hell, to be honest, there is no quality to control.

Chagaev came into this fight with either no game plan or no desire to adapt to the "impossible" task of dealing with Klitschko's long arm measuring him the entire fight. So, presented with the daunting task of a straight left arm in front of him, "White Tyson" Chagaev, went to his plan B: stay on the outside and absorb every punch that Klitschko would throw.

Wlad knocked Chagaev down in the second, essentially eliminating any pretense the WBA Chump in Recess had of even trying to get inside of Klitschko's jab.

The rest of the fight was smooth sailing for the reigning WBO, IBF and Ring Champion as he pawed with his left and swatted with his right with no fear of retribution as Chagaev was always at an arm's length.

In the 8th, Klitschko opened a cut over the Hepatitis B-infected Chagaev's left eye that was bleeding profusely and surely making fans at ringside cringe.

Referee Eddie Cotton called an end to the farce before the start of the 10th round.

61,000 German fans went crazy at an outdoor soccer stadium while millions of boxing fans around the globe shook their heads in disgust.

This leaves the Heavyweight division with a clear Top 2, but a Top 2 who will never fight each other (Wladimir and Vitali Klitschko). The rest of the Heavyweight division looks like rejects from a Star Wars convention: A painfully passive Wookie (Nikolay Valuev), A Mexican Jabba the Hut (Chris Arreola) and the rest of the rejects from the Star Wars cantina scene (Eddie Chambers, Alex Povetkin, John Ruiz, etc). Unfortunately for us fans, this convention has no Luke Skywalkers, Han Solos or even a Darth Vader...

David Haye is on the outside looking in, facing a possible shot at Vitali Klitschko (Vitali, earlier, won his arbitration case against the WBC and can now choose his next opponent instead of being forced to face another Heavyweight retread, Oleg Maskaev). Haye, at the very least, brings some flash and excitement to the dreary division.

Barring an almost impossible win by David Haye, we are going to be stuck in the muck of the heavyweight division; trapped in the Klitschko Bros. vortex of Jab, Jab, Jab and of opponents who simply don't have the skill or the will to find a path to victory.

RIP Heavyweight Division.

Your Ad Here

The Paq-Man Fever Post of the Week

This week we have another look into the zany life of potential Pacquiao stalker, Tommy Harris. In this video we learn that Manny "did it for us" and then we learn way too much about Mr. Harris as he tells us about how his wife left him because he was "fat."

Then, as a special added bonus, we get to see Tommy's boxing workout! God Bless You, Mr. Tommy Harris! Enjoy...





Every week The BTBC will bring you the best in outlandish, hyperbole-filled posts made by Manny Pacquiao's goofiest nut-huggers.

Your Ad Here

The BTBC News Wire (6/19/09)

(Updated Throughout the Day)

Oscar De La Hoya on Who Manny Pacquiao Fears!
Mosley Sounds Off on Arum, Cotto-Pacquiao Bout
Team Pavlik Lashes Out Over Rumor
The Klitschko-Chagaev Clash Won’t Re-establish Lineage
Ricky Hatton Hinting That He Might Fight Again?
Enzo: I turned down fight
Wladimir Klitschko and Ruslan Chagaev Deserve a Hand
Mosley vs Clottey, Arum is Interested in The Fight
Minto To Face Holmes, Hires Freddie Roach as Trainer
Paul McCloskey Faces a Very Tough Test Against M'Baye
Universum Counters False Information About Chagaev
Mahir Oral is Very Confident of Beating Arthur Abraham
Kell Brook, Kevin Mitchell Added To Khan-Kotelnik Card
Cancelled Fights Have A Considerable Impact On Boxing
Roach Says Kotelnik Faked Toothache in Khan Withdrawal

Your Ad Here

The BTBC News Wire (6/18/09)

(Updated Throughout the Day)

Kelly Pavlik: Anatomy of a Fallen Star
Arum Says Cotto Meeting Went Well For Pacquiao Clash
Bobby Gunn Promises "Garden State War" with Adamek
Donaire vs. Cazares Appears To Be On For WBA Title
Adrian Diaconu Fires Back at Pascal Over Comments
McCall vs Lawrence is Set For August 21 in Las Vegas
Younger Curiel Preparing For Debut, A Family Affair
Hopkins To Return in January? Against Froch or Adamek?
Pacquiao/Cotto Negotiations in Full Force, Deal Expected
Kelly Pavlik Enters Alcohol Rehab Center
Mosley breaks out big guns in bid for Pacquiao
Montiel vs. Morel Appears To Be Heading To September
Chavez vs LeHoullier, Gamboa vs Garcia on July 25
Henry/George Card in Houston is Brewing, Not Final
David Haye's Future Plan To Be Decided Very Soon
“Vicious” Vivian Harris Annoucement
Hide Continues To Bait Huck, Vivian Harris a Free Agent
Abraham-Oral: Arthur Ready To Impress on Showtime
Joe Calzaghe Beats Warren in Court, Awarded £1.8million
Amir Khan Can Benefit From Kotelnik Venue Switch
Donaire May Face Concepcion For Interim WBA Title, 8/15
Pacquiao Still Wants Floyd Mayweather Jr. Most of All

Your Ad Here

The BTBC News Block (6/17/09)

(Updated Throughout the Day)

Gamboa Eyes Big Things For The Future With Top Rank
Jean Pascal Claims Diaconu and 175 Will Be No Problem
Roy Jones: "Mayweather, Mosley Will Beat Pacquiao"
Valero to fight in Vegas?
Ultimate Rainy Day: Top 5 Modern Fight Cancellations
Alex Arthur Set For Comeback on Burns-O'Hara Card
Joe Calzaghe Would Consider a 10 Million Dollar Return
Wladimir Klitschko Calls Chagaev The True WBA Champion
Miguel Cotto: “I Had a Duty To Finish The Fight”
Want A RINGing Endorsement? Sanction Dawson-Johnson

Your Ad Here

Pro Debut of George "Monk" Foreman III

Your Ad Here

BTBC Boxing News Wire (6/16/09)

(Updated Throughout the Day)

Does Floyd Jr have Broken Ribs? Team De La Hoya answers
Floyd Mayweather Jr vs Juan Mauel Marquez in September
De La Hoya Will Comeback To Fight Williams - Dogs Attack
Roy Jones vs Danny Green Appears To Be Legit
Pacquiao’s Choice Should Be a Real "Welterweight" Fight
Nick Firtha Will Test The Chin of Tye Fields Early On
Manny Pacquiao Returns Back Home, Vacation Time
Lewis punches ticket into boxing's hall of fame
Cotto-Clottey And The Subjectivity Of Our Sport
Wladimir Klitschko Says Heavyweight Division is Not Dead
Fernando Lumacad is Ready For War With Jorge Arce
Shaun George, Chris Henry Clash on July 10, ESPN
Montiel Injured, Jorge Arce Replaces Him on 6/27
Pacquiao vs. Mosley Should Be Next, Says Schaefer
Salud Says "Catch-Weight" Cotto is Easy For Pacquiao
Klitschko-Chagaev May Have WBA Title at Stake
UK News: British Boxing Results Round Up
Brian Viloria To Return on August 22 in Cebu City
Arum Will Try To Close Pacquiao-Cotto This Week
Khan vs. Kotelnik Has Been Pushed Back To July 18

Your Ad Here

(Updated Throughout the Day)

Joshua Clottey Targets Paul Williams, Wants Him Next
Mayweather-Marquez May Get Pushed To September 19
Adamek issues hit list!
Cotto-Clottey: The Ringside Post-Fight Report Card
Dettloff: Morel's return
Pacquiao Orders Arum To Make Cotto Bout, Nov. 14
Cunningham vs. Braithwaite, IBF Eliminator on 7/11
Floyd Mayweather Jr vs Juan Mauel Marquez is Off!
Ray Mercer Knocks Tim Sylvia Out in Nine Seconds
Clottey's No Closer

Your Ad Here

Is Mayweather Going Straight at Pacquiao Next?

Sometimes, in Boxing, the best stories are the ones between the lines.

Following the announcement that Mayweather-Marquez was off, The BTBC couldn't help putting the clues together that would lead to the theory that Mayweather is planning on going right into a Manny Pacquiao fight without the benefit of a tune up.

Mayweather's rib injury came right after Bob Arum just surprisingly announced that he would be willing to make a 50/50 split on a Pacquiao/Mayweather bout...Also, with Cotto suffering a deep gash over his eye, an October Cotto/Pacquiao bout is not realistic and, by all accounts, Manny is not at all interested in fighting Shane Mosley.

That would leave Mayweather as the only major money bout available to the Pacquiao camp.

On Mayweather's side, early indications had to point to the fact that his bout with Marquez would not be selling as well as previously thought and, with the help of the Golden Boy brain trust, a change in plans had to be made in order to save an embarrassing spanking at the box office and among PPV buyers.

Don't be surprised if Mayweather-Marquez is called off soon and Mayweather-Pacquiao is announced...Also, if that happens, expect Juan Manuel Marquez to be tossed the consolation prize of a bout with Edwin Valero and a promise to fight the winner of Floyd vs. Manny.

Your Ad Here

Mayweather-Marquez: Postponed Due to Rib Injury!

In yet another blow to Boxing's Summer plans, the July 18th bout between Floyd Mayweather jr. and Juan Manuel Marquez has been postponed due to a rib injury sustained by Mayweather in training.

More info to come...

Your Ad Here

Cotto Beats Clottey in Thrilling Welterweight War!

Courtesy of the AP:

Miguel Cotto gave thousands of his fans exactly what they hoped for on the eve of the Puerto Rican Day parade.

Overcoming a cut from an accidental head butt in the third round and several brutal rounds with Joshua Clottey, Cotto fought to a narrow split decision Saturday night in a packed Madison Square Garden, retaining his World Boxing Organization welterweight title. With blood pouring down his face, Cotto, the pride of Caguas and the roughly 800,000 New Yorkers who trace their roots to Puerto Rico, threw his arms up at the end of a close bout that left the two battered.

Judge Don Trella scored the fight, 116-111, for Cotto. Judge John McKaie scored it, 115-112, also for Cotto. Judge Tom Miller scored it, 114-113, for Clottey.

The BTBC had the fight scored 114-113 in favor of Miguel Cotto.

Your Ad Here

The BTBC News Wire (6/13/09)

(Updated Throughout the Day)

Chad Dawson-Glen Johnson Rematch is Officially Signed
Cotto (146), Clottey (147) Make Weight, Set For War
Kotelnik-Khan title bout will likely be postponed
Bradley to face Campbell!
It's Shaw-time for the Fall
Hurtado Outlasts Garnica; Solis Blitzes Alexander In One
Guerrero Stops Hinojosa In Eight, Eyes Summer Title Fight
J.D. Chapman: Sold to DKP, Challenges David Haye
Was David Haye Sidelined For Klitschko by Finances?
Interview Nate Campbell: Cotto, Mosley, Mayweather, Pacman
Marquez in auto accident!
Darchinyan: "I Will Punish Agbeko, and Knock Him Out"
Welterweights & the Woe of Margarito
Cotto Chooses Joe Chavez To Replace Diaz as Cutman
Floyd Mayweather Update

Your Ad Here

The Paq-man Fever Post of the Week

This week our aim is to class up this blog by turning our attention to the gentle art of poetry. We found this gem out there in Cyber-Pacquiao Space and just had to share it. So, pour yourself a chilled glass of red wine, sit back in your most comfortable chair...and enjoy:

Hail Your King
by Adeno

Leave your doubts and fears behind,
start your march into the ring,
this is no time to be kind,
unleash the fury that you bring!

Show no mercy you're the king,
pound his body and crush his heart,
if you get hit just raise your arms,
retaliate with all your might!

Don't let others decide the conclusion,
for some men were truly born blind,
use the speed, use the mind, you can put him down,
dismantle this man named Ricky Hatton!

Old man Floyd can talk for eternity,
but the ring is no place for poetry,
fight for glory and raise your name,
Manny Pacquiao is at the top of his game!

I'm called Roach the master planner,
I lay the paths for Manny to conquer,
I'm his eyes when he cannot see,
together we strive for victory!

Prepare the words that meet defeat,
watch us celebrate in the ring,
I'd love to hear what you have to rhyme,
when your boy has fallen for the last time!

Manny and I will rule this world,
nobody else deserves his throne,
through wars together we shall stand,
hail the king, he is Manny Pacquiao,
hail the king, he is Manny Pacquiao!

Every week The BTBC will bring you the best in outlandish, hyperbole-filled posts made by Manny Pacquiao's goofiest nut-huggers.

Your Ad Here

BTBC Boxing News Wire (6/12/09)

(Updated Throughout the Day)

Pacquiao wants Mayweather, nobody else
Mayweather demands absurd - Arum
Mayweather Jr & Marquez make a Special Invitation
Doniare-Mthalane Rematch is Unlikely To Happen
Froch poised for Pavlik fight!
Criticism of Haye is unfair
Ricky Hatton's Decision on Future is Over Due
Joshua Clottey Wants to Make it Here
Guerrero Vows a Better Ghost Story For Hometown Fans
Fernando Lumacad Plans To Test Jorge Arce's Will, Skill
Javier Castillejo retires!
ABC balks at Mercer-Silva!
Sylvester vs Simon Set For Abraham Card on 6/27
Tyson Fury Contest Scrapped Due To Back Injury
Miguel Cotto: "I'm Ready For Anything Clottey Brings"
Hatton Camp Troubles Continue To Point To Floyd Sr.

Your Ad Here

Fight Night Club Numero 1

by Charlie 21er

Today I had a rare day off, and decided to attend Golden Boy’s “Fight Night Club” at club Nokia, a nightclub venue located near the Staples Center. Tickets were $28, ticketmaster fees were around $10, parking was $5, and Budweiser was $8. So if you go to the next one, meet me in the parking lot for a pre-game.

Despite the unusual choice of venue, I was pleased to find that the place was small enough that there really wasn’t a bad seat (or spot, since the cheap tickets were standing room only), and when I found myself in a bad spot, I just moved a few feet over for a better view. The ring was located on the main stage, and the pit area is located a few steps lower than the surrounding floor, allowing us in the back to get a good view of the action. Security was tight, so I am not sure if the balcony seats are worth the $60, but I can’t imagine they were any worse than being on the ground floor. Overall, I was very satisfied with the view.

The turnout was also pretty good, and only got better as the night went on; considering there was a Lakers game going on simultaneously, I was surprised at how many people made it out, true fight fans. By the end of the night, the place was comfortably filled: plenty of people without feeling crowded.

Those of us who were there were treated to five fights, and a chance to see Bernard Hopkins in person (I left before he came out).

In the first bout, Ricky Lopez 4-0 (2) took on Rufino Serrano 1-1 in a decent four rounder. The first thing I noticed was that Lopez is SHORT, but it didn’t matter much. Lopez was quick to get on the inside behind an accurate right hand lead in the first two rounds, and landed good hooks when he was close enough to his man. Lopez slowed down a little in the third and was on the back foot for most of the round as Serrano came forward and fired away; nothing landed of note, really, from either guy, but I gave it to Serrano for the aggression. Round 4 was a recap of the first two rounds with Lopez countering Serrano’s looping punches. The judges scored it 40-36, all for Lopez. BTBC had it 39-37 for Lopez.

The second bout had Charles Huerta 11-0 (7) against Noe Lopez Jr. [until tonight, undefeated, but currently 4-1 (3)] in a featherweight scrap. Both fighters were cautious in the first round, with some good exchanges, but nothing of particular note landed. In round 2, Lopez went down and the referee ruled it a slip. From my position I couldn’t see a punch landed so it seemed a reasonable call, but after Lopez got up, he wasn’t the same. Huerta jumped on him and began landing the hard stuff until the bell ended the round. In the third, Huerta continued where he left off and landed a teeth-exploding right hand that resonated throughout the club (the crowd responded appropriately) and dropped Lopez. Lopez beat the count, but when the pressure was turned on again, he took a knee without being hit. After he got back up, Huerta jumped on him and knocked him down again, causing the referee to call an end to the fight at 1:03 of the third round.

Luis Ramos took it to Baudel Cardenas in a lightweight 6-rounder that didn’t go the distance. Ramos looked the best of all the fighters on the card with his smart, accurate, punching, and steady bodywork. In the first round, he nailed Cardenas with a straight left to the stomach that put him down. Cardenas gamely got to his feet, but his body was a consistent target throughout the fight. In the second, Cardenas 18-17-2 (6) showed his experience as he bullied his opponent and worked him on the inside. Ramos tied up when necessary and landed solid blows to Cardenas’ head, knocking grease into the audience. Cardenas took it rather well. This continued for the next two rounds: Cardenas doing solid work on the inside, Ramos getting his distance and rocking Cardenas’ brain and mixing it to the body. Round five looked like a repeat of the last three, until the last minute when Ramos backed Cardenas against the rope and fired a quick 1-2 upstairs that dropped Cardenas along the ropes to the canvas. Cardenas looked out of it as his mouthpiece fell out of his mouth and he crawled to all fours. The ref waved it off at 2:26 and Ramos advanced to 11-0 (6)

In the main event, another six rounder, David Rodela 13-1 (6) and Juan Garcia 14-3 (5) went at it for the coveted “Quakerstate Durability Championship Belt,” the same one you could get a picture taken with in the corner (along with two HOT-T-T ring card girls). Despite the belt on the line, the fight was pretty good. The first two rounds went to Rodela as he used his jab smartly and worked Garcia to the body. Round three went to Garcia as it seemed that Rodela abandoned his jab in favor of powerpunches. Garcia avoided a lot of them and found his range, staggering Rodela at the end of the round. Rodela decided not to hang on, and instead fired back until the bell. Good stuff. In round 4, Rodela hit Garcia with a bomb that caused him to bend over at the waist against the ropes. It looked like he was going down, and Rodela backed off…until Garcia decided that he wouldn’t go down and Rodela jumped on him again with uppercuts. It reminded me of Jack Dempsey hovering over Jess Willard, except in this version Willard comes back, and Garcia recovered, somehow, and continued to exchange until the end of the round. In the last two rounds, Rodela kept looking for a knockout and Garcia just got in close and countered the wild punches from Rodela. Rodela was awarded a split decision. BTBC had it a draw. Judges Ray Corona and Alejandro Mapula were on drugs with the ridiculous score of 59-55 for Rodela.

After the cameras turned off, we were treated to the last bout between Ramon Flores 3-5 (3) and Jose Roman 4-0 (3). Flores knocked Roman down in the first round, but Roman recovered quickly and boxed smart. Flores was clearly the cruder of the two, and frequently missed wide punches, hooks from the outside and Darchinyan uppercuts that weren’t accurate in the least. In round two, I wrote down “ZERTUCHE-PAVLIK!!! GOTZ-DAMN!” in my notebook, because Roman clocked Flores along the ropes and put him to sleep on his feet. Flores turned off like a robot and teetered forward for a second before Roman went to town and put a few hard uppercuts and hooks into his head for good measure. Flores was done-for, and lay on the canvas for a solid 5 minutes before they had him up on a stool. A stretcher was used to extricate him from the premises, and just as well, because that guy was on queer-street, and will probably be there for a few days still.

Overall, a good time. $28 is a solid price for the fun of watching a live card with excited fight fans. Apparently there was a $1000 bonus for the two fighters who put on the best fight, this may have influenced the fighters, because all 5 bouts were pretty action packed. There will be a “Fight Night Club” once a month for the next 3 months. Check it out, and drink in the parking lot.

Your Ad Here

BTBC News Sack (6/11/09)

(Updated Throughout the Day)

RingTV.com kicks off new feature: Live stream of Fight Night Club
IBF Was in a Bind Ordering Donaire-Mthalane Rematch
Banks vs Butlin On The Klitschko-Chagaev Undercard
Too much hate for Pacquiao, Floyd Jr, Mosley and Boxers?
Insider Notebook: Israel Vazquez Dispute, Margarito Comeback, Pavlik-Sturm and Cotto Too
Witter-Alexander is Pushed Back, Pulled From July 11
‘The Ghost’ Returns
Diacanu vs. Pascal: Marlon Wright Named as Ref
Arce returns June 20!
Malignaggi-Diaz is a Done Deal, Weight of 138.5 on 8/22
Siaca calls out Mundine!

Your Ad Here

BTBC Video Post of the Day

Tyson Fury Punches Himself in the Face!

Your Ad Here

The BTBC News Chunk (6/10/09)

(Updated Throughout the Day)

Manny Pacquiao Decides To Attend BWAA Awards in NY

Oquendo vs Basile is Set For June 26 in Chicago

Nonito Donaire Ordered By The IBF To Rematch Mthalane

Melgarejo Focused To Win Through Tough Tragedy

Abner Mares To See Action on Mayweather-Marquez
HBO Boxing Budget On "Empty?"

Manny Pacquiao Calls Off US Trip, Faces Media Backlash
David Haye: “I Need To Beat Both Klitschkos For Legacy”
Cotto-Clottey Notes!
Alberto Cruz, Jayson Velez on Cotto-Clottey Card
Malignaggi vs. Diaz is Only "One Pound" Apart
Tyson Fury – He has the name, but what about the game?
In Need of a Welterweight Fight? Just Call Miguel Cotto
Valuev Confirmed as Champ By WBA, Not Chagaev
Puerto Rico: The pound-for-pound king of boxing
Mike Tyson Marries Girlfriend Lakiha Spicer in Vegas
Diaconu-Pascal: The Tension Begins To Build in Montreal
Roach To Train Guillermo Rigondeaux and Yudel Johnson
Starks' leg on mend after being hit by bullet

Your Ad Here

The BTBC Boxing News of the Day (6/9/09)

(Updated Throughout The Day)

Interview w/ Mayweather Sr - On his Son, Mosley, Pacman &...
Boxing Finally Gets Healthy Again
The Spoiler
Pavlik vs Sturm in October is Possible, Says Dunkin
Paul Williams on Mosley, Pacman, Floyd, Hopkins, Calzaghe...
"Bones" Adams Returns
Is Mayweather Really Too Big For Marquez?
USA Boxing Swings Back With Changes
Donnie Nietes Faces Manuel Vargas on 7/18 in Mexico
John Ruiz Determined To Fight The Good Fight
Calderon-Mayol: 14 Pounds From a Doubleheader
Danny Perez: "Every Fight Is My Last Chance"

Your Ad Here

Madcow's Standing 8 Count (6/8/09)

by Madcow

Here I am, your favorite bovine boxing columnist, rockin' you like a mother frickin' hurricane, with several axes to grind and a massive inferiority complex (not to mention a substance abuse problem, a weight problem, several dozen outstanding parking tickets and a sexual addiction that makes David Carradine look like Fred Rogers)!

Sorry for last week's lack of a column, but I was knee-deep in Polynesian trim and I honestly didn't feel like writing another column on a slow news week.

But then, as if delivered from heaven directly to my bloodshot eyes, David Haye gives me enough material for several month's worth of columns!

By now, I'm sure you all know, but Haye pulled out of his Heavyweight title fight against Wladimir Klitschko, leaving behind a stadium's worth of sold tickets, several million dollars and about 50,000 dumb T-shirts where Haye is ripping the heads off of the Klitschko Bros.

Now, it's just Haye who's getting a virtual decapitation from fans and media for talking so much trash and backing out at the last minute.

Don't buy the injury talk, this Madcow can smell cold feet when their rubbed up against his nose. Haye wrote a check that his sack couldn't cash.

Now, Wlad has an opponent in Ruslan Chagaev who may have Hepatitis, but isn't suffering from "yellow" fever. I say Klit, as a punishment, makes Haye fight Chris Arreola, Alexander Povetkin and Samuel Peter before getting back into contention.

All in all, though, this is a good thing since it saves me the 5 minutes the fight would've lasted before Klitschko separated Haye's flapping jaw from his head.

Ahhhhh. It's good to be back!

Message boards and websites are on fire all over the net about the upcoming Floyd Mayweather-Juan Manuel Marquez fight. I've heard both sides and here's the official decision from Madcow:

Mayweather's entitled to a tune-up fight and even a mini-Marquez is not bad at all for a tune-up. Afterwards, if Mayweather isn't making a serious effort to fight someone named Pacquiao, Cotto, Mosley or Williams next, then he deserves the wrath of the world.

Doesn't it seem that Manny Pacquiao's people know deep down inside that the dog and pony show is just about up? His people want nothing to do with a real Welterweight fight, they're already dismissing the idea of a Mayweather fight and they're going to price themselves out of any fight against a legit 140 lb. fighter.

On a similar note, if any Welter melts down to meet Pacquiao's crazy demands, they are goofy and deserve the dehydrated beating they'll get. Hear that, Shane Mosley?

David Tua announced that he'll officially be changing his ring name from "Tuaman" to "The Tuaminator." Can Madcow make a few more name change suggestions? How about "Tua Years Since He's Last Fought," "It's Tua Bad He Doesn't Get Off His Fat Ass and Fight, " or "I Wouldn't Pay Tua Cents to Watch Him Fight Shane Cameron?"

Alfredo Angulo, buddy, how the hell could you lose to Kermit "I'm Too Sensitive" Cintron?

Kelly Pavlik re-signed with Top Rank after they spendt the last 18-months burying the kid against weak opposition on bogus cards and allowing him to get within spitting distance of a slick spoiler like Bernard Hopkins. Maybe Pavlik is the "take the money and run" type of fighter after all. Kelly, how many pick up trucks and "Best of Bob Seeger" CDs can you buy?

John Ruiz is still whining about not getting another shot at the Heavyweight title and about not getting the respect he thinks he deserves. Well, this cure for insomnia has had almost a dozen world title fights in his putrid career and, combined, they've produced less excitement than the first round of any James Kirkland bout. Go away, Ruiz and take your garbage attitude and style with you. You are to Boxing what Stryper was to Death Metal.

Alright, kiddies, all out of venom for this week. See ya next Sunday and, remember, support the BTBC. I have it on good word that this Summer will make or break our community. Let's keep stickin' it to the man. F*ck You Fightnews and Max Boxing! Madcow's gonna rape Boxingscene's mother!

Peace and Love.

Your Ad Here

The BTBC News Wire (6/8/09)

(Today's Boxing News: Updated Throughout The Day)

Cotto, Clottey pick on someone their own size
Guerrero vs Hinojosa on June 12 at The HP Pavilion
Haye's Manager Agrees With Klitschko's Decision
Calderon wants to unify!
Monrose-Herelius, Ragosina-Ramsey, and More
Cruz vs. Solis Pushed Back From June 27 to July 11
Pacquiao Opponent Hunt To Get Serious After June 13
Vitali vs. Haye in September: No Truth To a Deal
Klitschko-Chagaev: Boxing, And Not TV, Dictates History
UK News: Amir Khan, Frank Maloney and John Murray
Wladmir Klitschko speaks - Wants to fight brother Vitali!
Roger Mayweather: "Are you a fool?" - Floyd Pacman &...
Foreman III stops Weaver in professional debut

Your Ad Here

Ivan Calderon is Ready to Defend on Cotto-Clottey Undercard

Miguel Cotto won't be the only Puerto Rican superstar fighting at Madison Square Garden on June 13th.

WBO and Ring Magazine Jr. Flyweight champ, Ivan Calderon, will be defending his title against Filipino challenger, Rodel Mayol on the Cotto-Clottey undercard.

This will be Calderon's first fight since August of last year when he suffered a deep cut in his forehead in a rematch against Mexico's Hugo Cazares.

Don't expect much from Mayol, though...Despite being the WBO's #1 contender, he's only 3-3 in his last 6.

But he does own something called The Philippines Games & Amusement Board Light Flyweight Title!

Your Ad Here

Wlad Replaces Haye with Chagaev

There will be a Heavyweight title fight on June 20th after all...Except David Haye will not be part of it.

According to representatives of Wladimir Klitschko, a verbal deal has been reached with WBA Heavyweight Champ, Ruslan Chagaev to replace David Haye on the 20th at Germany's Veltin Arena. Chagaev, himself, is the victim of a fight falling through at the last minute when Nikolai Valuev pulled out of their WBA Title unification when Chagaev tested positive for traces of Hepatitis B.

Haye pulled out of the long-awaited and hotly-promoted showdown with Wladimir Klitschko a few days ago, citing a back injury and was just recently given medical clearance to fight on July 25th at the earliest.

Klitschko's people balked at the idea of postponing the fight until the 25th since RTL, the TV network that has the exclusive rights to Klitschko's fights in Germany, is unable to broadcast the fight on that day.

Back in the USA, HBO has already passed on Wladimir vs. Ruslan, opting to leave space in their budget to see who Klitschko fights later in the year. HBO is banking on either Haye or American contender, Chris Arreola, both significantly bigger fights in the States than a bout with Chagaev.

Haye's options are to either wait on the Klitschkos to get done with their mandatories and hope for another shot or, possibly, schedule a fight with Arreola for later in the Summer or early Fall.

Look for thousands of deeply-discounted "Haye Decapitates Klitschko Bros." T-Shirts to flood eBay and local flea markets...

Your Ad Here

The Paq-man Fever Post of the Week

Here's a disturbingly funny video entry this week...10 Bucks says that Manny's filling out a restraining order against this flake within a year's time...Enjoy!

By the way, this nutjob has an entire youtube page devoted to his borderline stalking...Thank You, God!

Your Ad Here

Mosley Wants a Pacquiao Fight; Pacquiao Wants Control

Shane Mosley, desperate for a payday, has been calling out current Pound-for-Pound kingpin, Manny Pacquiao, and has been more than willing to concede every possible advantage to the Filipino star.

As it stands now, Mosley, a former 154 lb. champ will have to fight at a catchweight of 142 or 143 lbs. if he wants Pacquiao to even consider the bout. Mosley would also likely concede a 60-40 money split in Pacquiao's favor.

When contacted about the proposed fight, Manny Pacquiao said: “No problem, we can fight. As long as we negotiate.”

Other possible concessions given by Mosley:

• Mosley must wear an eye patch during the 1st, 5th and 12th rounds.
• Mosley must wear two spit buckets for shoes in each even-numbered round.
• Mosley must chug a gallon of milk between each round.
• Mosley must wear his shorts around his knees in the 6th and 9th rounds.
• Mosley must wear over-sized, 48 ounce novelty gloves.
  

Your Ad Here

Israel Vazquez: "I'm Back!"

After a 14-month lay-off and three surgeries to repair a detached retina (one of three detached retinas in his last year in the sport), Israel Vazquez has been given medical clearance to start training and was granted a new boxing license from the California State Athletic Commission.

In his first post-comeback move, Vazquez announced that he would now be competing as a Featherweight, a division above his previous weight class. He also voluntarily relinquished his 122 lb. Ring Magazine Championship.

Vazquez's plans include a tune-up bout, possibly in Mexico, and either a run at Takahiro Aoh's WBC Featherweight title (promised to him by WBC President, Jose Sulaiman, when Sulaiman reluctantly stripped Vazquez of the WBC Jr. Featherweight crown) or a Part 4 in the brutal series versus Rafael Marquez.

Another possibility is a bout with Puerto Rican power puncher, Juan Manuel Lopez. However, Vazquez says that a Lopez vs. Vazquez bout would have to take place at 126, not at Lopez's current weight of 122 lbs.

Your Ad Here

Former Champ Sor Vorapin Suspended for 6 Months

Promoter Kokiet Panichayarom has suspended former WBO Bantamweight Champ, Ratanachai Sor Vorapin for throwing a flying kick at Filipino challenger, Ramie Laput on March 28th, during a bout for the WBO Intercontinental Super Bantamweight title at Cebu Coliseum.

Sor Vorapin lost his temper when he was cut by an accidental headbutt and the ref wouldn't deduct a point from Laput.

While Sor Vorapin grimaced and complained, Laput charged and started throwing punches. Enraged, Sor Vorapin threw a flying kick and was immediately disqualified.

Your Ad Here

David Haye Pulls Out of Klitschko Fight

According to Setanta Sports, David Haye has officially pulled out of his upcoming bout for the IBF and WBO Heavyweight championships against Wladimir Klitschko due to an unspecified hand injury.

The bout was one of the most highly-anticipated Heavyweight clashes in recent memory and a very hot ticket in Europe, expecting between 60 and 70 thousand at the live gate with several million more watching across the world.

Further medical inspection will be needed in order to determine when this bout can be rescheduled.

Your Ad Here