Filed under: MMA
(KNOCKOUT NATION – JULY 20, 2008) Saturday night, Anderson Silva disposed of James Irvin at 1:01 in the first round at the UFC Fight Night at The Palms in Las Vegas. “I was very happy about the win,” Silva said, who saw his record improve to 22-4.
“I was very happy about the win. Now it’s over. Soon as I left the Octagon, I started looking forward to going back to Brazil and training for the next fight,” Silva said. The warrior, who is considered to be the best in the world, revealed that he would no longer fight at light heavyweight and seeks improved competition by dropping down to middleweight. He will defend his title again in September.
Here are the results from last night’s UFC Fight Night 14 card in Las Vegas, Nevada:
Anderson Silva defeats James Irvin by KO at 1:01 in the 1st round (light heavyweight)
Brandon Vera defeats Reese Andy by Unanimous Decision (light heavyweight)
Frank Edgar defeats Hermes Franca by Unanimous Decision (lightweight)
Cain Velasquez defeats Jake O’Brien by TKO (strikes) at 2:02 in the 1st round (heavyweight)
Kevin Burns defeats Anthony Johnson by TKO in the 3rd round (welterweight)
CB Dollaway defeats Jesse Taylor by Submission (Peruvian necktie choke) at 3:58 in the 1st round (middleweight)
Tim Credeur defeats Cale Yarbrough by TKO at 1:54 in the 1st round (middleweight)
Rory Markham defeats Brodie Farber by KO (head kick) at 1:37 in the 1st round (welterweight)
Nate Loughran defeats Johnny Rees by Submission (triangle choke) at 4:21 in the 1st round (middleweight)
Brad Blackburn defeats James Giboo by TKO at 2:29 in the 2nd round (welterweight)
Shannon Gugerty defeats Dale Hartt by Submission (rear naked choke) at 3:33 in the 1st round (lightweight)
-David Stansfield
knockoutnation@gmail.com
Filed under: Boxing | Tags: Freddie Roach, Joe Calzaghe, Oscar Diaz, Winky Wright
(KNOCKOUT NATION – JULY 19, 2008)
- Twenty Five year old Oscar Diaz, collapsed in his corner after 10 rounds of his match against Delvin Rodriguez. Although Diaz’s eye swelled considerably throughout the course of the fight, there were no initial signs that the fight was taking a major toll on either fighter. As the fight continued, Rodriguez cleary began to take control and it appeared a victory would soon be his. However, a moment of deep concern fell upon everyone watching and in attendance after 10th round. After the Doctor went over to check on Diaz, Diaz stood up and screamed as his legs gave from underneath of him. As Diaz squatted in his corner, he appeared to grab his head in extreme pain. He was then immeadiately tended to by the medical personnel and taken to the nearest hospital. It was later reported that Diaz had immediate surgery for swelling of his brain on Wednesday night. According to reports, Diaz is showing improvement after his surgery and and his brain is back to it’s normal size. Although he has a long road to recovery, Doctors are optomistic that Diaz will come out okay. Please keep Diaz and his family in your thoughts and prayers at this time. Earlier this week, Star Boxing released the following press statement:
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Oscar, his family, and all of Oscar’s fans and friends in San Antonio,” voiced Joe DeGuardia, CEO of Star Boxing. “This is very tragic, no one ever wants to see something like that. Oscar is a tremendous fighter and more importantly a tremendous person. It is hard to think about anything else right now other than giving our full support to Oscar. We hope for the best, and ask everyone to keep Oscar in their thoughts and hearts, as this is a very tough time for him and his family.”
- Reports are surfacing that Former undisputed Jr. Middleweight Champion, Ronald “Winky” Wright may be facing Welterweight titilist Paul Williams at 160 pounds in September or October. Both fighters have been in the news recently as both attempted to land a fight with Middleweight Champion Kelly Pavlik. However, according to Top Rank’s Bob Arum, neither fighter landed the fight as they would not come to an agreement with the fininacial terms Arum laid out. So it appears both fighters are now looking toward each other for a fall showdown. Although the fight is not finalized, Williams’ promoter, Dan Goosen, has confirmed that a deal is being negotiated. The bout would certainly be intriguing as it would pit the high volume offense of Williams against the skilled defensive specialist in Winky Wright. Williams is just coming off a 1st round knockout of Carlos Quintana and Wright was last seen losing a decision to former Light Heavyweight Champion, Bernard Hopkins in 2007.
- Joe Calzaghe has made it known that he has no plans to vacate his WBO Super Middleweight title. Recently, Calzaghe has stated that his fight with Roy Jones on September 20th would be the last of his career but he seems to have had a change of mind. Earlier this week, Calzaghe said he not only may continue to fight after the Jones fight, but he may even target current Middleweight Champion Kelly Pavlik. Speaking to the press this week, Calzaghe stated, “There is no way I am going to give up my WBO title. I do not have a mandatory challenger at the moment, so I do not have to defend my title. If I beat Jones, I might move back down to super middleweight to face Kelly Pavlik. I still feel young….I need fights that motivate me. Kessler motivated me, Hopkins motivated me, Jones motivated me, and Kelly Pavlik has been hanging around.” If Pavlik gets past Hopkins and Calzaghe should get past Jones, it would certainly set the stage for a superfight between the two early next year.
- WBC Lightweight Champion, Manny Pacquiao has been in the news quite a bit this week. Not only has he decided to vacate his WBC Superfeatherweight Title, but reprts are surfacing that a potential fight with Oscar De La Hoya could be becoming more of a reality with each passing moment. After his impressive performance against lightweight titlist David Diaz, many and Pacman’s camp feel he would have no problem taking Oscar De La Hoy on at 147. As we all know , Oscar has no opponent locked down for his final fight in December. The most serious options we have heard spoken about is Tito Trinidad or the winner of Cotto vs. Magarito. Although there has been no word from Golden Boy Promotions, trainer Freddie Roach feels Manny could defeat Oscar. Speaking to the press earlier this week, Roach stated, “Oscar is looking for a fight. I think Pacquiao should fight Oscar next. Oscar says he has one more fight left in him. If we can get Oscar to come down to 147 pounds, I told Pacquiao that maybe we weigh in around 140 and by fight time we’ll be up to 145. I would never take a fight I wasn’t confident my guy could win. I’m very confident he could win. Oscar is older and he can’t pull the trigger anymore. If Steve Forbes can land shots on Oscar like he did, Manny will hit him with ease. Manny will annihilate him, I feel.” Top Rank Promoter, Bob Arum has confirmed that he and Richard Scaefer have had discussions about a potential fight between the two but realizes the ultimate decision will be up to Oscar De La Hoya. Although this bout seemed far fetched at one point, it is slowly becoming a possible option for Team De la Hoya. We can expect to hear more about the possibility in the coming weeks as De la Hoya makes his decision.
- Not that anyone needs a reminder, but next week, Miguel Cotto and Antonio Margarito meet in what is being billed as a potential classic. Most fans are split right down the middle on who will win this fight. Both fighters are proud warriors who are known for their toughness, willingness to brawl, and vicious body attacks. Between the two, Cotto is widely consider the better technical fighter of the two as he has recently added more boxing ability to his to his aresenal and has learned to adapt to several styles over his last few fights. Margarito is less varied in his attack, but is no less dangerous as his agression and pressure has been known to overwhelm many skilled fighters throughout his career. Although the undercard of this PPV fight is nothing to get excited over, the main event will most certainly be worth every penny dished out. This is in fact the most exciting fight that could be made in boxing right now and we can certainly expect fireworks. Fight Fans..get ready!
BY: BROWN
Brownkn1@gmail.com
(KNOCKOUT NATION – JULY 19, 2008)
Antonio, is this your biggest fight?
ANTONIO MARGARITO: I want to thank Bob for giving me this opportunity against Cotto and it is the biggest fight of my career. I am preparing myself very well for this fight and cannot wait to get up into the ring.
Sometimes you think things are not going to come your way. I did not want to leave my title on the table. I wanted to defend it. Things did not go as well there as I had expected, but the opportunity is here right now, it’s been a long road and now I am here.
What type of fight do you think this will be?
ANTONIO MARGARITO: I am not sure what strategy Cotto will have for this fight. I know that I am the type of fighter that throws a lot of punches and puts a lot of pressure on my opponent and we’ll see how he comes out and how he reacts to it. But I can tell you right now that it is going to be a great fight.
We know you can fight, but do you feel you may need to box against Cotto and will you be able to?
ANTONIO MARGARITO: I think my strength is my power and my stamina and to be on top of him all the time. Boxing is going to have a lot to do with me winning the fight.
What about the bright lights/big event?
ANTONIO MARGARITO: When I was going to fight Sanchez a couple of times, they mentioned the same thing. They thought I would be nervous for those fights. For this fight, I only have to worry about one thing, Miguel Cotto. I have to worry about when I get in the ring. I don’t worry about the people and I don’t worry about the press. It will be just him and me in the ring.
Ever since I signed this fight against Cotto I was very aware that is was Mexican against Puerto Rican and that makes it a very important fight. A special fight. But right now I am just looking at him as another opponent. I am glad I am getting another opportunity and it will be another chapter of Mexico vs. Puerto Rico.
Do you think Mayweather will be watching?
ANTONIO MARGARITO: I am sure he’ll be watching. He will want to see how real fighters fight. I am sure there will be a lot of guys that haven’t wanted to fight either one of us that will be watching.
Have you watched video of Cotto?
ANTONIO MARGARITO: Of course I have watched a lot of video of Cotto, but I have also seen him fight live since we have been on the same card quite a few times. I am not worried about what his weaknesses are; I am worried about what I need to do. My confidence and my ability to win this fight will be because I have trained very well for this fight.
A prominent trainer said the difference between Mexican and Puerto Rican fighters is that Mexicans have more heart and are willing to die in the ring – can you comment on that?
ANTONIO MARGARITO: I know what he’s talking about. All of the Mexican’s when they get up into the ring are going to give it their all. They are going to do whatever it takes to win even if they have to die in the ring. But I’ll tell you one thing, I think Cotto can fit into that same category.
Will the Cintron victory help you in this fight?
ANTONIO MARGARITO: During that last fight I had been telling people all along that I wanted to become a champion again and as far as I am concerned that is what the fight against Cintron proved. Cotto is a totally differently thing and that is all I am focused on right now.
Do you think your height will be an advantage?
ANTONIO MARGARITO: The advantage depends on how he fights. If it is a close in fight, it won’t matter how much height or reach advantage that I have. But if he boxes and tries not to come to me I will have to use my reach and height to make him fight.
We have been on a couple of cards together and I have watched him fight. He has gotten better every year. He had a really good run at 140 and now 147 and he has turned into be a very good fighter.
What does the rivalry mean to the Mexican people?
ANTONIO MARGARITO: The fact that there has been great fights in the past and the way they fight each other. There has been so many great fights that everyone gets so excited about it and everyone wants to see it. I am looking forward to the fight. I am not looking it as being against Puerto Rico. I am just looking at it that it will be a great fight. Every opponent is different and you will see that when we get into the ring and you will see what I can do against him.
What is the difference between you now and when you fought Paul Williams?
ANTONIO MARGARITO: Every opponent is different and everyone fights each opponent differently. We can’t fight the same. We have to have a different strategy for each guy. Against Paul Williams I had a bad night and then I won the championship again and I’ll win it again on Saturday.
Do you think this would be the biggest fight of your career?
ANTONIO MARGARITO: Without a doubt, I think that winning this fight will move me to another level, as a Mexican fighter and as a Mexican idol. I think it will fulfill some promises in my career.
What do you think you could do different than Mosley or Judah?
ANTONIO MARGARITO: I feel that I will be pressuring him a lot more. I have a lot more power and I can do a lot more things as far as power is concerned. And I know I have a bigger heart than both of those guys combined.
I have waited a long time for this type of fight and I know that I am hungrier than he is and I want it more than he does and I’m going to go get it.
BOB ARUM: In both countries they love the sport and it is a major attraction. When you have that many passionate fans as those in Mexico and Puerto Rico. And when you have two great fighters, you are going to get that type of a reaction. It’s the same as when we had Italians and Irish and the Jews fighting each other in New York. It went on for years. There were fierce rivalries and fans loved to watch those fights. It was natural. Now, a lot of people don’t have a rooting interest in one or the other fighter. When Leonard and Hearns fought it was Washington, DC against Detroit and when Hagler fought it was New England against Detroit. They were popular and they had a lot of fans. We don’t have matches now where fighters have big followings.
Now we have a top fighter from Puerto Rico, Cotto, and a top fighter from Mexico, Margarito, so that rivalry is rekindled so it adds tremendous buzz and spice to the match-up.
This fight is something special. Anyone that cares about boxing or anyone that follows boxing is going to want to see this world championship event. Both fighters are entertaining and give everything they have in the ring and it will make boxing proud. At the end of the day, that to me is more important than who wins or loses the fight. This is something that boxing can really be proud of. Two gentlemen conducting themselves out of the ring like superb gentlemen and I am really proud of both of these young men and I think they are the best of what boxing has to offer.
**************************************************
Remaining tickets, priced at $700, $500, $300, $200 and $100, can be purchased at the MGM Grand Garden Arena box office and at all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations (select Smith’s Food and Drug Centers, Macy’s West at the Fashion Show Mall, and Ritmo Latino.) Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (702) 474-4000 or MGM Grand at (800) 929-1111. Tickets are also available for purchase at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com
The Cotto vs. Margarito pay-per-view telecast, beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, has a suggested retail price of $49.95, will be produced and distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View and will be available to more than 71 million pay-per-view homes. The telecast will be available in HD-TV for those viewers who can receive HD. HBO Pay-Per-View is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For Cotto vs. Margarito fight week updates, log on to www.hbo.com.
Filed under: MMA
(KNOCKOUT NATION – JULY 17, 2008) UFC president Dana White has revealed that UFC 90 will take place on Oct. 25 at Allstate Arena in Chicago
This is the first time the MMA goliath has traversed Chicago for an event.
”Chicago is a huge market for us,” White told Chicago Sun-Times. ”We track pay-per-view buys for our events and ratings on Spike TV, and Chicago is a killer market for us. There are tons of fans in Chicago and around Chicago, and it’s going to be one of the places we hit often. It’s a great fight town, and we’re really pumped that we’re finally getting this done.”
The Illinois Athletic Commission changed the language in certain laws to allow the UFC and other mixed martial arts organizations to function under safety guidelines identical to boxing.
”We only go to places with strong athletic commissions,” White said. ”We’ll never go to a place where (MMA) isn’t legal yet.”
White didn’t announce a headliner.
”What I won’t do is set certain expectations about somebody, and then for whatever reason, that person can’t make it,” White said. ”But you know every time we go to a new place, we deliver. We’re going to bring a big-time fight.”
The UFC has continually expanded and seeks to purchase the IFL (International Fight League), according to MMAPayout.com.
-Charlie Rem
knockoutnation@gmail.com
(KNOCKOUT NATION – JULY 17, 2008)
According to recent reports and word from Bob Arum in an interview with espn.com, Kelly Pavlik will move up in weight to face former light heavyweight champion, Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins. Pavlik will be following in the footsteps of Winky Wright and will move up 10 pounds to face Bernard Hopkins at a catchweight of 170 pounds.
The fight will take place at the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ and will air October 18th, live on HBO PPV. As many in boxing know, many names have been tossed around as possible opponents for Pavlik’s next defense. Of course Joe Calzaghe has opted out of this fight to face Roy Jones, Winky Wright was accused of “pricing himself out” by Bob Arum, and a financial deal simply could not be struck with welterweight titilist, Paul Williams. Running out of options for a worthy challenger, Top Rank turned their attention to Bernard Hopkins.
Hopkins was last seen losing his Ring Light Heavyweight Title to Joe Calzaghe and the loss had many questioning Hopkins’ future in the sport. Obviously the old vet isn’t quite prepared to clock out yet as he glady accepted the fight. The deal was made today and both Top Rank and Golden Boy Promotions apparently agreed on a 50/50 split of the purse for both fighters. Speaking to espn.com, Bob Arum stated, “This fight was not our first choice, but it was the only alternative we had to make a buck. We didn’t have any place to go except a pay-per-view card. At least it will do halfway decent numbers. We turned it down once. It came back around and we accepted it.”
Bernard Hopkins has yet to speak on this suprising announcement however, Pavlik’s trainer, Jack Loew, welcomes the fight. Speaking to espn.com, Loew stated “Bernard is really a middleweight, he’s not a light heavyweight. I think 170 pounds is fine for us. Bernard will be strong, but I know what we have to work on. I’m fine with Bernard Hopkins. I think it will be good fight. We’re fighting a legend. He’s experienced and he’s an old veteran. He knows all the tricks and Bernard is a survivor. I think he’s a great fighter and it will be an honor for us to fight him.
Although many in boxing have expressed their interest in Pavlik facing either Arthur Abraham or Winky Wright, Hopkins is a formidable opponent who will be no easy walk in the park for Pavlik. Although Pavlik met Jermaine Taylor at a catch weight in their rematch, it has yet to be seen how he will perform at a weight of 170 pounds. While many would prefer Pavlik take care of business at middleweight instead of moving up two divisions to face a semi-retired legend, at least this challenge will be a huge step up from his last opponent. Expect to hear more about this suprising news in the coming days.
BY BROWN:
Brownkn1@gmail.com
(KNOCKOUT NATION – JUNE 17, 2008)
MIGUEL COTTO: This is just another fight for me. It’s a fight that Margarito wants to take my title – and that makes it big enough for me. Margarito is a great fighter. I have trained to win this fight and that is all that’s on my mind right now – win this fight. I feel the same right now, in this fight with Margarito, as I do going into most of my fights.
This is going to be a battle in the ring. Everyone that shows up is going to see a real battle because he is trying to take my title away.
Do you prepare differently because you may get more punishment than in your last few fights?
MIGUEL COTTO: When I train, I try to get my body in the best shape that I can. I have trained so hard for Margarito that my trainers know that I have nothing left to give.
What about the Mexican vs. Puerto Rican rivalry?
MIGUEL COTTO: Any time you have a Puerto Rican and a Mexican fight it makes me think of the Gomez- Sanchez fight and the Pintor-Gomez fight and the Oscar De La Hoya – Trinidad fight. Miguel Cotto vs. Antonio Margarito will put this fight at the same level as those.
Which is your first memory of the rivalry and do you feel a passion?
MIGUEL COTTO: I think Gomez is the first memory I have of the rivalry. The moment that you don’t feel a passion for preparing to get into the ring for any fight – that is when you have quit on the job. Everybody knows about the rivalry. Now it is me against Margarito. This fight will add another shot to the rivalry.
What about your legacy?
MIGUEL COTTO: I always climb in the ring to win the fight. If you ask me to put me on a scale with other boxers I am going to put Miguel Cotto as high on the list as I can – but only with my success in the ring. I cannot tell you that I deserve a ranking. My job is to train and to box. The people that write about boxing will decide my ranking and my legacy.
BOB ARUM: As far as Miguel Cotto is concerned he is training and going into the ring to win the fight like a great fighter does. He goes in the ring to win. The legacy is determined later by the people who write about the sport. Just like the president of the United States. He has to do the best, in his mind, for the country and his job is graded later by pundits and writers – the determination being if he was a good president, a great president or a poor president. It’s the same thing with Miguel Cotto. He is focused on winning this fight and the determination of his legacy comes afterward.
MIGUEL COTTO: I try to bring the best Miguel Cotto into the ring that I possibly can, you know? The determination and dedication in the last three years for me, the people that write about boxing see the pleasure Miguel Cotto brings into the ring. The Miguel Cotto that can box and can move. When there is someone that can do that – you are a complete boxer. They are the kind of fighters that people want to see. Someone would remember Miguel Cotto in those kinds of fights is proof that the hard work pays off.
With a win, what do you think would happen to your Pound-4-pound ranking?
MIGUEL COTTO: I trained hard for 9 or 10 weeks to win and return to Puerto Rico with my belt. I had a really good camp and when I beat Margarito it is not up to myself to decide that. I will do my work in the ring the best I can. The writers and the people who know about boxing who make those lists can answer that question.
Do you think it will be a pro-Mexican crowd since it is in Vegas?
MIGUEL COTTO: I do not worry about that. It does not matter to me what kind of person is watching the fight because when we get in the ring it is only Margarito and me.
Did you talk to Tito about this rivalry?
MIGUEL COTTO: I don’t have to talk to anyone about this rivalry. I only need to know about Margarito and myself.
How is your body since you have been fighting at 147?
MIGHEL COTTO: When you destroy yourself to make a lower weight you suffer the consequences in the ring. Now I feel more comfortable at 147 pounds and the people that see my fights at 147 can see that.
BOB ARUM: After his last fight at 140, Todd duBoef took Miguel to a high velocity trainer in Los Angeles and they did a complete evaluation. They said you have to be crazy to fight Miguel at 140 pounds because in order to make the weight he was burning muscle. In the 24 hours between the weigh-in and the fight, he put the weight back on but he didn’t put the muscle back on. Therefore he was getting tired in the ring and he was getting weak and getting wobbled by punches. 147 is his natural weight and it has been tremendous for him. The change has been dramatic since he has moved to 147.
Do you know your game plan fight the fight with Margarito?
MIGUEL COTTO: I try to use everything that we have worked on in the camp and I will benefit from that work. I will feel better in the ring in the beginning of the fight because that is when the game plan is at its best.
Do you think there will be less boxing/more punching because of this heated rivalry?
MIGUEL COTTO: I will use whatever I need to use to win this fight. I can’t tell you what style I will have to use and until I get in the ring I don’t know what style will win this fight – move or box. But I will try to use everything and I always feel better when I do that.
Comparisons to other great Puerto Rican fighters?
MIGUEL COTTO: A lot of people will compare me to the great Puerto Rican fighters. I don’t compare myself to the other greats. I just try to do my work to win for me and my family and my country and the people who root for me.
What goals do you have in boxing?
MIGUEL COTTO: To show my ability and to show my skills in the ring. I try to maintain like a champion. My goal when I began was to become a champion with the belts. I am pretty happy with my career up to now. I am happy with the managers of my career and I am happy with myself. I train very hard to show my ability and my skills in the ring. If there is something left to better my career it would only be to get better. Every boxer’s goal is to become a champion. Then you become a champion and you try to maintain yourself as a champion.
How about 8 oz gloves compared to 10 oz?
MIGUEL COTTO: It doesn’t make a difference to me. When I box, 2 ounces is not that much of a difference.
What about fighting in Las Vegas for the first time in a long time?
MIGUEL COTTO: Everywhere is good. Madison Square Garden had a lot of people from Puerto Rico to cheer me on and help with my performance. Now I go to a new place – MGM in Las Vegas. I am going to have a lot of fun there.
Are you upset you won’t get a chance to fight Mayweather and why do you think he retired?
MIGUEL COTTO: I think Mayweather retired because he thought that would be the best for him. I can’t answer a question like that – the only person that can answer that is Mayweather. Margarito is my upcoming fight on July 26 and Mayweather retired and my career has to continue and there are a lot of big names at 147 lbs. to make good fights. I can’t be upset because my career is great. I am always going to fight whoever my company puts in front of me.
What’s are your feelings on the fight?
BOB ARUM: I promote both of these fighters and each came to us in a completely different way. Miguel we had from the beginning right out of the Olympics and Antonio Margarito had quite a few fights before coming to us. They are both terrific fighters and the one thing I take pleasure in is that the battle of these two guys are in the biggest fight in years and in a fight that is attracting a lot of attention and they are both treated with dignity and first class. We have special buses that each will be traveling in during fight week. Each is treated like a true champion and Bob Arum will be sitting at ringside with the outcome having absolutely no affect on me – that’s how I like it.
**************************************************
Remaining tickets, priced at $700, $500, $300, $200 and $100, can be purchased at the MGM Grand Garden Arena box office and at all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations (select Smith’s Food and Drug Centers, Macy’s West at the Fashion Show Mall, and Ritmo Latino.) Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (702) 474-4000 or MGM Grand at (800) 929-1111. Tickets are also available for purchase at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com
The Cotto vs. Margarito pay-per-view telecast, beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, has a suggested retail price of $49.95, will be produced and distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View and will be available to more than 71 million pay-per-view homes. The telecast will be available in HD-TV for those viewers who can receive HD. HBO Pay-Per-View is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For Cotto vs. Margarito fight week updates, log on to www.hbo.com.
Filed under: MMA
(KNOCKOUT NATION – JULY 17, 2008) Quinton “Rampage” Jackson was taken to a hospital by police again on Wednesday the day after a hit-and-run spree in his pickup truck Tuesday July 15.
The former UFC light heavyweight champ was relaxing with friends on Wednesday and summoned police in Irvine, Cali after they became concerned with his behavior. Just the day before Jackson was arrested at gunpoint by police for driving erratically and colliding with multiple cars.
According to reports from tmz.com, the police considered Jackson a threat and danger to those close to him and himself. He was taken in without incident.
“We did go out to the residence where he was staying at 4:31 p.m. PT (on Wednesday in the city of Irvine, Calif.). We were asked to assist with him and make sure that he was safe and not a danger to himself or others,” said Lt. Rick Handfield of the Irvine Police Department. “He was exhibiting some unusual behavior that his friends that were there felt concerned.”
At press time, Jackson was with mental health officials at an unspecified facility.
-Knockout Nation
knockoutnation.com
Filed under: Boxing
(KNOCKOUT NATION – JULY 18, 2008) James Toney defeated Hasim Rahman in a controversial TKO victory after a third round head butt opened an enormous cut above the left eye of Rahman. The win makes Toney the new NABO Heavyweight Champion.
The stoppage was prompted because Rahman said blood from the cut made it difficult for him to see clearly. “Its not clear, its not clear,” Rahman said in the corner at the end of the round.
James Toney said Rahman should have kept fighting, despite the gaping wound.
“I would have continued to fight. He was looking for any way out. If I was him, I’d put my balls on and keep on fighting.”
Toney also stated that he wanted to win in a more convincing manner, but would take the win.
“It’s a disappointing win, because I wanted to knock him out. I was wearing him down…I told everybody in my camp he wont go seven rounds.”
Toney and promoter Dan Goosen maintain that Rahman quit.
However, Rahman was furious at the decision and explained why the fight should have been a no decision, not a TKO.
“The cut was deep, blood was streaming in my eye, my vision was so blurry in the third round – if you notice he didn’t hit me with a right hand,” he lamented. “All of a sudden, after the accidental head butt, he started catching me with punches I don’t see. I’m not going to try to fight James Toney with one eye. Everybody knows this was some home cooking.”
Rahman and his manager declared that they would appeal the decision.
“This was the worst damn decision period,” he said making a quip about the “Best Damn Sports Show Period,” which broadcast the event.
“He [Toney] don’t deserve to wear that belt anymore than he don’t deserve to wear a Gucci belt, Prada belt or any other belt,” Rahman said, “he didn’t earn it he didn’t win it.”
Dr. Paul Wallace, who oversaw the fight, said he recommended that the fight should be stopped, but said the decision to render a TKO wasn’t his verdict.
“The commission makes their own decision. I make the medical one. If a boxers say they can’t see, they can’t fight.”
The fight took place at the Pechanga Resort and Casino in Temecula, California and seemed to be destined to excite fans.
Early in the fight Rahman dominated the melee with a stiff left jab. Toney sought to counter the jab and did in the second round, catching Rahman flush with the right several times.
Toney did his best work when he was able to move the fight close inside the jab. In Round 3, the cut opened up over the left eye of Rahman. Then, Toney rocked Rahman with a massive right hook that caused his opponent’s legs to momentarily buckle.
Rahman said that he would consider fighting Toney again, but not in California – Toney’s home.
-Charlie Rem
knockoutnation@gmail.com
(KNOCKOUT NATION – JULY 18, 2008)
TONEY vs RAHMAN
PECHANGA RESORT & CASINO
TEMECULA, CALIFORNIA
(12 Rd NABO Heavyweight Championship Bout)
JAMES “LIGHTS OUT” TONEY
Grand Rapids, MI
(70-6-3, 43KOs)
Former Middle, Super Middle,
Light Heavy Cruiser and Heavyweight Champion of the World
VS.-
226 lbs. VS HASIM “THE ROCK” RAHMAN
Baltimore, MD
(45-6-2, 36KOs)
Former 2-Time Heavyweight Champ
244 lbs.
_______________________________________
(6 Rd Jr Middleweight Bout)
FRANCISCO “CHIA” SANTANA
Santa Barbara, CA
(8-1, 4KOs)
151 1/2 lbs.
VS
ALEJANDRO BOGARINE
Ontario, CA
(8-5-3, 2KOs)
153.5 lbs.
__________________________________
(4 Rd Super Bantamweight Bout)
RICO RAMOS
Los Angeles, CA
(4-0, 3KOs)
121 lbs.
VS
JONATHAN VELARDEZ
Houston, TX
(6-0, 4KOs)
120 lbs.
__________________________________
(4 Rd Jr Welterweight Bout)
MIKE DALLAS JR.
Bakersfield, CA
(3-0 )
144 lbs.
VS
ARTEMIO REYES JR.
Moreno Valley, CA
(1-0, 1KOs)
142 1/2 lbs.
______________________________
(4 Rd Lightweight Bout)
JUAN ANGEL ZAVALA
Indio, CA
(0-1)
130 lbs.
VS
CARLOS HERRERA
Oxnard, CA
(1-2, 1KO)
131 1/2 lbs.
______________________________
(4 Rd Heavyweight Bout)
MARCUS DICKERSON
San Diego, CA
(1-0, 1KO )
207 lbs.
VS
HELAMAN OLGUIN
Lancaster, CA
(Pro Debut)
234 lbs.
(KNOCKOUT NATION – JULY 16, 2008)
Tony Walker – Director of Affiliate Relations of HBOPPV & HBO Sports
“Golden Boy is bringing us elite fighters, some of the best fighters in the world. It is going to be a great show on September 13th.”
Bob Halloran – Vice President of Sports of MGM/MIRAGE
“We are proud to have great fighters and great partners with Golden Boy and HBO working on this show. We at MGM want to welcome Juan back and hope he has an exciting fight like he always bring, and welcome Joel back as he hasn’t been to MGM in almost 8 years. The opening odds just came out and the favorite is Juan -340 and Joel +280.”
Oscar de la Hoya – President of Golden Boy Promotions
“September 16 is always a special weekend for Mexican fighters, fans and the public watching at home. It started with the days of Julio Cesar Chavez and then I fought seven times on this weekend during my career.”
“Now we have a great show and we expect these fighters to give us that same kind of action and excitement. There is an extra pressure to perform on this weekend but it will be memorable and historic for both guys.”
“For Juan Manuel Marquez, there is an extra pressure that you want to prove you are the best and for him being the Mexican fighter. I know he is going to come out strong and show he is tough like Chavez did, like I did when we fought on these weekends.”
“As for Joel Casamayor, his fight with Michael Katsidis is a candidate for Fight of the Year. He showed power, speed. Throughout his career people saw him boxing and now he is sitting down more, planting his feet and throwing a lot more punches and being very aggressive.”
Juan Manuel Marquez – Former Two Time World Champion
“This is a dangerous and very difficult fight for me. I will prepare very hard for this important date.”
“Joel is a good boxer, fighter and a champion.
“This fight at 135 pounds will be difficult for me, but not impossible. I want victory for my country and my people.”
Joel Casamayor – Current Ring Magazine World Lightweight Champion
“Juan Manuel is a great champion and I want to thank him for the opportunity to fight him. But, there will only be one winner on September 13th and its going to be me.”
“I respect Juan Manuel and also his trainer, Nacho Beristain, a lot, and I know it will be a great fight on September 13th.”
Casamayor vs. Marquez – “The Challenge”, a 12-round bout for Casamayor’s Ring Magazine World Lightweight Championship, will headline a night of world-class professional boxing presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Romanza Boxing and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate, Cazadores Tequila and Southwest Airlines. The world title bout will take place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and will be distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View, beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
Tickets priced at $300, $200, $125 and $75 are on sale and may be purchased at any MGM Grand box office outlet and all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations (select Smith’s Food and Drug Centers and Macy’s West at the Fashion Show Mall). Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (702) 474-4000. Tickets also are available for purchase at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.
The Casamayor vs. Marquez pay-per-view telecast, beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, has a suggested retail price of $44.95, will be distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View and will be available to 71 million pay-per-view homes. HBO Pay-Per-View is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For Casamayor vs. Marquez fight week updates, log on to www.hbo.com.
An exciting undercard will be announced in the near future. For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com.
**PHOTO – Golden Boy Promotions
