Summer Rumble 2

After the success of the first Summer Rumble and just like every great movie, the sequel is almost upon us. Forget about Harry Potter or how rubbish the new Spider-man film looks this summer's Blockbuster belongs to Phil Jeffries and Neil Fannan.

Put the Oscar on the back burner and polish up the gloves for the 2nd addition of the finest North East summer attraction. The Summer Rumble 2 is sure to get the juices flowing and head's ringing inside the ring and an expected sell out crowd at the Rainton Meadows Arena September 18th at the crack off Noon.

Top North East talents David Lake and Craig Dixon are set for their return follwing impressive displays at the first Summer Rumble, these two fighters alone is well worth the admission fee with many more top duels to be announced.

Ticket Hotline 0191 564 0202 Or 0774 7611 020

Tickets from £30 with Ringside seats from £50

Presented by Phil Jeffries & Neil Fannan

http://www.olympiangym.com/  

Courtesy of North East Fight Scene http://www.northeastfightscene.co.uk/

To avoid disappointment get your tickets before they sell out.
The October 21st showcase for Team George has already sold out, A massive thank you to everybody that is taking part or anyone that has bought tickets for this event Courtesy of Phil Jeffries for the brave little boy. to find out more information check out our Team George page. And a big personal Thank you to Phil Jeffries, Neil Fannon, North East Fight Scene and everyone involved in North East Boxing from everyone at Silver Dukes.

British Boxing at it's Best, The Supporting Role

By Gianluca (Rio) Di Caro
Slotted in between the main events was a four round lightweight contest
featuring Enfield’s unbeaten Chris ‘The Flash’ Evangelou and Rotherham’s
Jon Baguley.

A cracking all action fight in which the young Londoner was able to
showcase his exceptional talent to yet another big crowd. Don’t get me
wrong it wasn’t all one way traffic from Evangelou, Baguley didn’t come to
make up the numbers.

For four round the pair went for it a hundred and ten percent, just as I
said Evangelou is an exceptional talent and it showed. His work rate and
quality of punches were the telling difference that earned him a tidy
49-47 points victory.

Remember the name Chris Evangelou, I predict that this youngster is going
to be huge and it’s just a matter of time before we see him in
Championship action.

The main support bout for Fury-Chisora see Kilburn’s Ashley ‘Treasure’
Theophane defend his British Light Welterweight crown against former
European and IBO World Lightweight Champion Jason Cook.

Cookie starts fast and takes the fight to the champ in the fist couple of
rounds. Throughout Cookie looks well in control and lands some cracking
big rights. Ashley fought well but Jason was far more active and landed a
lot more shots.

The fourth was a much closer round, both men upped their work rate and
added even more venom to their punches.

More of the same in the fifth, which was already heading towards being yet
another round for Cookie even before Ashley was deducted a point for yet
another low blow, his fourth in two rounds!

Round six was a much closer affair as Ashley started to up the pace and
take the fight to Cookie. Some nice back and forth action ensued, Ashley
started to turn the style on and land some peaches.

The tide starts to turn in the seventh, As before the pair went at it
hammer and tongs for the full three minutes. The highlight of the all
action round see Ashley land a cracking right, quickly followed by a crisp
left-right to which Cookie countered with an equally venomous right. First
clear round for Ashley in my book, but was it to be too little too late?

Round eight sees ‘Treasure’ pile on the pressure and at times looks
extremely dangerous, especially when he started picking his shots. The
venom in these shots was clear for all to see, the tide now flowed a
hundred percent in his direction. An easy round to call in the Champ’s
favour.

Ashley dominates round nine, great action throughout the round but the
highlight comes with just seconds left on the clock. Ashley rocks Cookie
with a huge right followed by a salvo of exocets. Somehow Cookie survives
until the bell.

Starting the tenth in the same vein as the previous round Ashley stalked
his quarry before launching a series of big shots, that culminated in a
huge right that sends Cookie down - and out with just forty three seconds
on the clock.

Great performances from both fighters, I have to admit by the midway point
I thought Ashley had well and truly blown it, I was wrong.

It was another great performance by the reigning champ in the fight that
preceded Theophane-Cook. Southern Area Light Middleweight Champ Ryan Toms
defended his title in emphatic style against the normally oh so classy
Newmarket prospect ‘Phat’ Pat McAleese.

From the off this looked like would be one helluva fight, and it was. The
early exchanges were fantastic evenly matched affairs but as the round
progressed Ryan switched tactics and started to really add some power to
his shots.

Early in the second Ryan lands a peach of a left, quickly followed by
another. Pat comes back with a cracking double handed flurry. As the round
progresses Pat changes tactics and starts to box, and box beautifully.
Ryan though smelled blood and starts to really load up his shots.

The third was a real lively affair, Pat again boxes beautifully but Ryan
steps it up and targets the body. As the round progresses Ryan seems
content to pick his shots, again targeting the body with venomous lefts.
After yet another big body shot backs the Newmarket man up and lets rip
with a powerful double handed flurry. Pat does well to recover from the
onslaught to survive the round.

After various big exchanges in the fourth Ryan lands another big left to
the body, Pat sinks down and takes the count. As soon as the count’s over
Ryan is all over Pat like a rash and again lands a big left to the body,
Pat goes down for the second time. As the fight resumes the writing is on
the wall and it comes as no surprise when Ryan lets rip with yet another
vicious left to the body. ‘Phat’ Pat goes down for the third and final
time, as the referee waves the fight off at the two minutes and forty four
second mark.

It may have been a short fight but it was a right royal dust-up. Ryan Toms
looks ready to move up and have to say judging on this performance British
Champion Prince Arron should be the next target in his sights. Now that’s
a mouth watering prospect for the new season.

Heading up the Championship bouts support card see Sheffield based Qatari
Kid Galahad in action against Mansfield based Latvian Pavels Senkovs.

Nice little work out for the talented Kid Galahad as Senkovs is no walk
over. For five rounds Galahad barely got into second gear as he out boxed
the game Latvian. The final round see Kid Galahad shift up a couple of
gears and go in search of a stoppage finish. Big double handed flurries
rained down on the Latvian exile for virtually every second of the final
three minutes.

Excellent performance by Kid Galahad to earn a shut out 60-54 points victory.

Now having read this far you will have a good idea that this show was a
bit of a blinder, and that there were some awesome performances. Now if I
were to say to you that my performance of the night wasn’t Tyson Fury,
wasn’t even Ashley Theophane or Ryan Toms but was three fight veteran
Peter Vaughan you’d probably laugh, that is unless you were at Wembley
Arena on Saturday night.

Peter Vaughan was served up as the sacrificial lamb for hot Light
Middleweight prospect Phil Fury, but as everyone soon found out this was
no lamb but a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

The first couple of rounds there was some great action, and most coming
from young Vaughan who seemed intent to make his mark. By the third
Vaughan was well in his stride and picking his shots. It wasn’t all one
way traffic and there was some good toe-to-toe action midway through the
round, but Vaughan’s high tempo work rate and accurate punching secured
him the round, as the pair before, easily.

More of the same in the fourth, but come the fifth Vaughan shifted up a
gear and really went to town, mixing it up with solid body shots and big
right hands. Fury responds with some big shots of his own but nowhere near
the level Vaughan was dishing out. At this point I have Vaughan five
rounds up and looking to cruise to victory.

The sixth goes more or less the same way, but Vaughan digs into his well
stocked arsenal of punches and starts letting rip with big rights followed
by rib cracking hooks or explosive uppercuts.

Fury obviously realised his precious ‘O’ record was in serious danger as
he shot out to take the fight to Vaughan in the seventh. Big mistake
Vaughan catches the advancing Mancunian with a huge left and so started
yet another round dominated by the young upstart Vaughan.

The eighth and final round was a cracker, Fury needed a knockout to keep
his record unblemished and he knew it. This was by far Fury’s best round
but again he was out boxed and out foxed by the excellent Peter Vaughan,
who was magnificent throughout and thoroughly deserved the victory.

I was little surprised that referee Bob Williams scored it 78-75 as
Vaughan had won every single round by a country mile, that’s not just my
thoughts but that of the amassed press corps seated around me.

Waltham Abbey’s Phil Gill was next up, against Sheffield based Qatari Mo
Khaled.

It took Gill a couple of rounds to get to grips with the awkward Dominic
Ingle trained fighter’s switch hitting style, so Khaled took the first
couple of rounds comfortably.

Once Gill had him sussed he was able to land big rights at will. Khaled
switched tactics and drew Gill in, big mistake that’s where Gill is at his
best and boy did he make the Qatari exile pay for that mistake.

At the end of six excellent rounds I had Gill ahead by one round, although
in all honesty the third could have gone either way so wasn’t really that
surprised when referee Bob Williams held both hands aloft and declared it
a 57-57 draw.

Yet another top class bout preceded Gill-Khaled, this time Luton based
Bulgarian Bobby George (Boris Georgiev) faced Manchester’s Tamao Dwyer.

Again it was a cracker, albeit quite one-sided. Right from the start
George turned on the style and played to the gallery. As early as the
second round George would look up to his many supporters after a
particularly slick bit of work, no surprise really he made it look so
easy.

Round after round he plain out boxed Dwyer, picking his shots before
letting rip with a flurry of crisp double handed flurries.

George turned up the heat in the fourth and really went to town on the
head of Dwyer, so much so that by the end of the first minute he’d opened
up a cut over the left eye of the Mancunian. Referee Bob Williams was
quick to notice the widening cut and called for the doctor, who declared
the cut too serious to continue and handing George his second TKO finish
in three pro outings.

I arrived at the Wembley Arena just as debutant Lee Markham’s bout,
against the ubiquitous Matt Scriven, was about to start.

It took a round or so for the youngster to settle down, but once he turned
on the class and picked off the more experienced Scriven with ease. Late
in the third Markham really shook Scriven and it looked like a stoppage
finish was on the cards. In the final stanza Scriven used his vast
experience to keep out of trouble against the clearly talented youngster.

After four excellent rounds Lee Markham earned his first pro win by a
shutout 40-36 points margin.

My final words on this most excellent (yes I know I keep saying excellent,
but the bouts and the event were very much just that) event is I have
covered many events, on both sides of the Atlantic, but this was my first
Hennessy Sports event. If this is the level of quality of all Mick
Hennessy promoted shows I can’t wait for the next, as this was quality
from start to finish.

Back to the Garage for Del Boy

And we’re back, after taking a week off to absorb all that this fight season has thrown at us we are back with a bang and a new British and Commonwealth champion in the shape of Tyson Fury.

Fury v Chisora was billed to be a grudge match to rival DeGale v Groves and all the bad blood that went into the build up nicely set this one up.

All the trash talk was over and mutual respect between both fighters emerged after just the first round and both boxer’s continued to touch gloves at the end of each round. The opening rounds to the fight were slightly subdued with Fury trying to keep Del Boy at distance with Chisora reminding Tyson why he was champion with big swinging right hands giving Fury something to think about.

Tyson’s chin stood the test in the 2^nd round courtesy of Chisora’s right hand but it was hard to give Del Boy many other rounds apart from the 2^nd. Without being overly heavy handed Fury stuck to his game plan well and bullied the champ for the most part of the fight using his size and weight advantage much like the great Wladimir Klitschko.

Fury was my pick before the fight and although he never really released his full power Tyson boxed clever and seen a lot of Chisora’s bombs coming.

There was talk of the winner firmly putting their name on the Klitschko hit list with many boxing heads believing Chisora would be victorious including Wladimir himself. Granted Chisora was inline twice to face a Klitschko so maybe many of you thought he must be better than he really is. The Heavyweight division is a little thin in present times but I am glad for Chisora that he never fought a Klitschko judging by his struggle against Fury last night.

I feel it will be difficult for Del Boy to bounce back from this set back as the only other real British Heavyweight out there is David Price who fights John McDermott on bonfire night in a final British title eliminator.

Fury v Klitschko would be a better fight with Fury’s size, it is not very often a Klitschko is the smaller man but maybe Tyson lacks the power to really cause Wladimir or Vitali any great problems. It is however looking more likely that Fury will fight the winner of Price v McDermott and if all goes according to plan the new boxing season could well feature 6ft 9” Tyson Fury v 6ft 8” David Price for the British and Commonwealth title which I believe would bring more interest from the Klitschko brothers and I feel would ultimately result in a David Price v Wladimir/Vitali Klitschko in the not too distant future.
　
All the credit for now has to go to Tyson Fury, he knew he was underdog last night but it did not hold him back one bit from the early goings in the 5^th round Fury started to flow which meant bad news for Chisora who simply could not land a telling shot or get through the defence of Fury.
　
A good night for Fury and British boxing and I look forward to seeing what the future holds for Fury.

Oshunrinde And Smyle Go Face To Face Ahead Of 31st July Showdown

Earlier today Dollis Hill, London, based American Super Middleweight Emmanuel ‘Manny’ Oshunrinde and Leicester’s Jahmaine Smyle came face to face for the first time ahead of their highly anticipated rematch, which headlines the Graham Earl promoted ‘Renaissance’ event at Liquid Nightclub, Gordon Street, Luton, on Sunday July 31st 2011.

The big punching duo’s first encounter, at York Hall in January, lasted a mere seventy one seconds before referee Kieran McCann stopped the bout due to a bad cut above Smyle’s right eye, declaring the bout a technical draw and stating the cut was due to accidental clash of heads.

Oshunrinde and his coach, TRAD TKO Boxing Gym’s Barry Smith, were outraged, claiming there never was a clash of heads and the cut was caused by  Oshunrinde’s solid jabs and big hooks and should have been declared as a TKO in their favour.

Speaking at Graham Earl’s House of Champions Gym in Luton Oshunrinde said, “It feels like redemption don’t it, yeah. It’s less than two weeks away, you can call it redemption but really I’m setting the record straight on a bad refereeing decision in January.

I’m feeling pretty good, I’m ready to rock and roll. When I beat him the first time I wasn’t in tip top shape, but now I feel like I am peaking really, really well.

Training’s going really, really good. Everything is right and coming into play, and I feel good.

I’ve been getting great sparring, been sparring great guys like Cruiserweight Mitchell Balker and this really good young kid that’s just turning over, he’s making his pro debut, Frankie Buglioni. He’s very good, he’s had an illustrious amateur career. He’s surprised me because he’s actually give me good sparring.

For this fight I’ve been sparring six and eight rounds to make sure I have the fitness. You always see me training , I always put a hundred and ten percent in because I’m trying to improve.
It didn’t go four rounds last time, I’m not going to make any predictions, other than a win. I don’t want to seem to cocky so I’m just going to predict the win and just box like I do in training.”

Jahmaine Smyle just sat smiling as Oshunrinde spoke, when he’d finished Smyle responded by saying, “I can’t wait to get in there. I’ve trained hard, I’ve been training for this for six weeks like.

I’m really looking forward to this, I can’t wait to get back in there. I’ve had good sparring, it’s all good, I’m ready.

The last one I only got caught by three shots before I got cut and they stopped it, under that new rule. It wasn’t a punch that did the cut, he caught me with the side of the gloves.

I’ve had some tough fights, that wasn’t one of them. I got through to the semis of Prizefighter, I think I had a tough draw, my last fight was a close fight, I thought I won it but that’s the way it goes sometimes.

All I know is I’m going to win, one hundred and ten percent. I’m not saying I’m going for a knockout, if it comes it comes, you know what I mean, I’m going to box him, I’m going to work him. I’m going to beat him.”

Graham Earl has put together an exciting undercard, to support Manny Oshunrinde versus Jahmaine Smyle II, featuring Graham Earl Promotions big banging stars Terry Holmes and Joe Hillerby as well as debuts for local lads James Smith, Danny Mulhern and  and Tom Little.

Tickets, priced £30, for the Graham Earl Promoted ‘Renaissance’ event at Liquid Nightclub, Gordon Street, Luton on Sunday July 31st 2011 are available on-line at www.tkoboxoffice.com or in person at Graham Earl’s House of Champions Gym, Unit 11 Hitchin Road Industrial Estate, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU2 0DZ

The Other Stars of the Show

Rocky Fielding continued his winning ways in his hometown last night with another valuable 6 rounds under his belt. A points win over tough guy Jamie Ambler moves Rocky’s Professional record to 7-0. The Light Heavyweight Prizefighter champion we and truly put his name amongst the Liverpool elite last night and long may it continue. Following in the foot steps of fellow Liverpudlian and stable mate Tony Bellew Rocky has his sights on conquering the Light Heavyweight division.

You may be cynical and say he’s along way off European or world glory yet but at only 23 years old Rocky has the credentials be make a big name for him and I would not doubt domestic honours beckon.

Callum Johnson did not disappoint in his first bout under new trainer Joe Gallagher going the scheduled 4 rounds with Lee Duncan and coming away with the W. Still very much a toddler in the professional ranks but with a Good professional outlook Callum Johnson is a name you will be hearing plenty in the near future.

Much to his credit and commitment to the cause Callum is said to be heading straight back into the Denton Gym tomorrow and plans to be back in the ring come September, “watch this space”
　
Another successful Liverpool prospect found there’s not a great deal to this winning lark is Middleweight Joe Selkirk. 7-0 Selkirk made light work of Birmingham’s Terry Carruthers claiming a first round TKO win.

Selkirk barely gave us time to admire his skills but what we did see was a deadly left hand and a right hand that seemed more than capable of playing the support act. Another young hopeful from Liverpool at only 25 years old and yet another fighter from Liverpool to keep an eye on. I fear I may have to leave my North East surroundings and move to Liverpool just to keep up with the talent that is emerging from the fine sporting city.

Tragic end for Cook

Hopes of regaining his WBO Super Featherweight title for Nicky Cook were dashed before any real punch was thrown last nigh in Liverpool. What looked like a back spasm seen Nicky Hit the canvas three times in 90 seconds in his bid to regaining his former strap.

From the first body punch from Burns it was clear to see something was seriously wrong with Cook, instead of that everlasting smile you would associate with the man from Dagenham there were grimaces of excruciating pain. Nicky Cook much to his credit continued and I was begging for the referee to stop the fight there and then as cook was trying to fight one handed protecting his injured back.

Unable to throw a punch himself cooks efforts were futile but should be applauded not booed. The towel was thrown in not a moment too soon and Cook was carefully ushered back to his corner by a doctor before a stretcher played taxi and Cook was immediately taken to hospital.

Early indications were a ruptured disc near the spinal column and it has been said Nicky will have x-rays today to find out the extent of the damage.

A tragic way to leave a fight and I’m sure I speak for every boxing fan when I say we wish Nicky Cook a speedy recovery and hope this will not be the last time we see him in a boxing ring although it is looking entirely possible.

Ricky Burns being the Scottish gentleman that he is showed great respect to Cook, applauding as he was taken away and sending his regards post fight.

This is a great shame for boxing as a whole, Nicky Cook was hoping to relight his career whilst Ricky Burns was trying to prove to the British public what a worthy champion he is.

The celebrations put on ice but I’m sure it won’t be long until Burns is Back in England to show us all just what a special talent he truly is.

Once again we’d like to send our best wishes for a speedy recovery to Nick Cook and to all his family.

A Boxing Lesson From Tony Bellew

Many may say the bombs were duds in the opening affair of Frank Warren’s Master card in Liverpool last but sheer boxing skill was in abundance in the opening bout of the final domestic show of the season.

Possibly the most eagerly awaited fight of the night was the rematch between ‘Bomber’ Tony Bellew and home run hitter Ovill McKnezie in which the first fight give us plenty to write home about with knock downs like they were going out of fasion and everyone loves a stoppage win.

Like many rematches this one to most pundits did not live up to the hype and some of the Liverpool faithful had their patience tested in the middle rounds but surely I am not the only one that seen some pure boxing skills on show where a very capable and dangerous fighter in McKenzie was made to look seriously average by a trunk full of talent in Tony Bellew.

In the first fight both fighters felt their opponents best shots and had brief encounters with the canvas so surely the tactics were going to be different in the second coming, and different they were. Mckenzie had shorts bursts in the first round that reminded us why we simply could not live without this fight happening again but Bellew’s defence was more than up for the task of fending off any attack from McKenzie.

Other than in maybe three rounds McKenzie did not produce a great deal and Bellew boxed clever and notched up the rounds without much trouble at all. Bellew showed good foot movement and controlled the fight with his left hand from all angles; great head movement From the Bomber frustrated Mckenzie. A reserved Ovill Mckenzie for a great deal of the fight simply could not throw his own bombs with Bellew’s right hand a constant threat, Bellew kept fainting the right hand just to let McKenzie know it was still there and boy did McKnezie know it.

The corner of McKenzie began to run out of ideas by the 8^th round and rather than give advice the simply said “right you’re getting boring now” just the words of encouragement a boxer needs when you’re already way behind in a fight. In Bellew’s corner however the plan was simple “give him a boxing lesson” and the Bomber obliged.

Not the great spectacle we were all hoping for and with Nathan Cleverley at ringside Jim Watt certainly wanted more from Bellew and felt he was not doing his claims for a world title any good and to that I say how?

Boxing a perfect fight? Working the perfect game plan? Having your opponent afraid to throw a telling punch? Fair enough it may have been unpleasing to the untrained eye but there was plenty on show to interest Nathan Cleverley and Frank Warren knows Tony Bellew sells tickets.

Everyone has seen Tony throw his bombs and knock opponents out but last night his showed his great defensive skills as well as offensive skills and not only does he posses power he’s not easy to hit.

Bellew v Cleverley makes perfect sense to me and another domestic world title fight will do wonders for British Boxing. In hindsight a massive congratulations to our new Light Heavyweight British champion Tony Bellew, now he has two titles to polish but I am sure he will not mind one little bit.

Building on Prizefighter Success Rocky Fielding

The unbeaten 23 year old is all set for his ring return since being crowned Super Middleweight Prizefigter champion in his home town of Liverpool tonight. Rocky’s success in the Prizefighter competition prompted Frank Warren to sign up ‘Rocky from Stocky’.

Michael ‘Rocky’ Fielding told the Liverpool Echo that penning a contract with Warren was an easy decision to make as it allows him to follow in the footsteps of some of his boxing heroes. Hardly surprising Fielding jumped at the chance to sign for Frank Warren who record speaks for itself. Warren hosts the domestic show of the year at the Liverpool Echo arena tonight with no less than 4 titles on the line from British to world titles on display.

“Going back to when I was a kid, I used to watch all the big shows and Frank Warren was the main man so I think he’s the right person to go with. I watched fighters like Joe Calzaghe, Ricky Hatton and Amir Khan on Frank‘s shows so I‘d love to be able to get to where he helped them to one day” said Rocky.

Jamie Ambler is the man trying to spoil the welcome home party tonight in a 6 round contest.

Also on the card tonight are rotunda stable mates Tony Bellew and Joe Selkirk who Rocky has been around since his amateur days and said he always wanted to be on the same card as them.

Tony Bellew puts his Light Heavyweight Commonwealth title on the line whilst trying to claim the British title and Rocky had this to say “As an amateur I was on shows with the other lads from the Rotunda like Bellew and Selkirk and wanted to get back being on the same shows as them. It will be bit like an old Rotunda show tonight and it will be a good one, especially with Bellew fighting for the British title. I can't wait to sit back and watch him win it”.

Interview - Kevin Mitchell On This Weekend’s Showdown With John Murray

By Gianluca (Rio) Di Caro

At long last the highly anticipated showdown between Dagenham’s ‘Mighty’ Kevin Mitchell and Manchester’s John Murray will finally take place this weekend, albeit in Liverpool and not the ExCel in London which was to originally host this career defining fight.

As I am sure most of you are aware the fight was supposed to have taken place this past Saturday, but due to Kevin being unwell for a few days recently the bout was hastily rescheduled and added to the Ricky Burns versus Nicky Cook WBO World Title fight card.

Since my return from America I have spent quite a bit of time with Kevin while he has been training at the TRAD TKO Boxing Gym in Canning Town. I was there throughout his training camp for the ill fated Katsidis fight and of course I’ve been there for Kevin’s  camp for the John Murray bout.

Even though the training and sparring sessions have all been behind closed doors, thanks to Kevin’s coaches Jimmy and Mark Tibbs trusting me I have been lucky enough to have been at the TRAD TKO for every single session.

I don’t want to give too much away about just how well Kevin’s training has gone, but will just say I’m not normally a betting man but I’m seriously thinking of popping down to Paddy Powers and putting a few bob on our Kev.

Anyway before I do say too much about the camp, and get myself in trouble with Jimmy and Mark or gym owner Johnny Eames, it was after his final sparring session that Kevin and I sat down to chat about this weekend’s fight.


Rio - Your fight with John Murray has been put back to this weekend, why was that and how has that affected you and your preparation?

Kevin - I had a virus and had to be out of the gym for a couple of days, I didn’t want to make any mistakes like I did last time so spoke with Frank (Warren) as I wanted to get the virus out of the way.

A couple of days later the virus was gone and I felt good enough to get back in the gym.

I was straight back in training and sparring, I walked through twelve rounds easy and felt strong and sharp so the fight was back on again for a week later, but in Liverpool.

I feel bad for the other kids that were on the show, especially Billy Joe (Saunders) as he’d been here training alongside me. Same with Billy Morgan and Eddie Hussein, these kids have been down here training every day now they’re stuck without a fight. I’m Gutted for them that they didn’t get to be on the show.

I’m also gutted for the fans that I’m not fighting in London now. They’re a great crowd and I’m sure some will come up to Liverpool.


Rio - It’s now an away fight, and not that far from John Murray’s home, does that make any difference to you?

Kevin - I’ve been everywhere, I’ve been to Italy, Russia, I’ve been to America. I’ve been all over the world boxing so Liverpool’s not going to be a problem for me.

I know it’s an away fight now but I’ve been up there a few times and know a lot of people up there, the Smith brothers and all the people I met when was at the Murray camp.

I’ve got a lot of good friends up there and  know that when I step out on the stage there’ll be plenty of people there supporting me.


Rio - This is one of the few genuine 50/50 fights to take place this year - the winner of it is likely to be the one that wants it most - so just how much does Kevin Mitchell want it?

Kevin - If I’d won the last fight, like I should have done, this fight would have been looked at as a mismatch and shouldn’t be happening as Kevin’s beaten Katsidis up, but I got beat and everyone’s saying it’s a 50/50 fight.

Look at Murray and his last fight. In my eyes it’s more like a 90/10 fight in my favour.

He’s a good fighter, he’s good at what he does domestically. He’s fought names, but not at the top of their game, they’ve all been past it. You know like John Thaxton. Thaxton was a brilliant fighter in his day but  not when John Murray fought him.

He’s never been in with a top class fighter, I took Carl Johanneson when he was at his best and beat him, it was a hard fight and he got well beaten up by me, and I was just a young kid.

I’m now a twenty six year old man and this is a big fight for me. I’ve been training for this now for over two months and I’m not losing this fight.


Rio - You just mentioned training, to me you have looked totally different in camp, to what you did in camp for the Katsidis fight, you look sharper and more focused, everything. But how do you think it’s been going?

Kevin - Well you have been here for both camps to be fair. You’ve seen me train at both camps.

For the Katsidis camp I was useless in here, I was crap, turn up with no head on my shoulders as if I was in a dream land, I was crap. This camp I’m flying, everyone can see it. I’m sparring brilliant against them, everything’s gone brilliant.

These camps aren’t easy, they’re hard, but I enjoy them. I’m just looking forward to getting in there and smash him to bits.


Rio - That’s really good to hear, so you feel ready for the showdown with John Murray this weekend.

Kevin - Yeah perfectly, the last fight I wasn’t relaxed, I was nervous. When you’re prepared for something, you’ve got a job to do, you’ve got to be prepared you’ve not got to worry that something will go wrong.

When you are fully prepared, like I was for the Prescott fight you know that he has got no way out of that ring before the twelve rounds are done, unless I knock him out.

I will tell him (John Murray) the same thing it’s a twelve round fight and the only way you’ll get out early is when I knock you out.

There’s only two ways he’ll fight this fight, come out and stick it on me and get beat up or come out and try and lure me into a fight, by boxing and trying to counter punch me. Personally I think he’ll come out and box for two or three rounds and try and counter me which suits me as he’s going to get beat up and knocked out, he’ll be smashed to bits.

I had three rounds in the Katsidis fight before he took me out, for the first two rounds I played with him, if you see his face after, his was battered mine wasn’t  and I didn’t get hold of him really so you can imagine what I am going to do in twelve hard rounds to John Murray when I’m prepared.


Rio - So the Kevin Mitchell we’ll see on Saturday will be more like the one from the Prescott fight?

Kevin - Most certainly I’m just going to box for the whole fight. You’re going to see one hundred percent boxing, boxing and boxing. Lots of switching, mix and match it, box and fight, fight and box and some countering. You’ll see a world class performance from me on the 16th July.


Rio - For the winner of this fight it looks like it will lead to a full World title shot.  Does that add any additional pressure?

Kevin - No, not at all, I really want that World title shot. I’m going to win this and get that title shot, I can’t wait.


Rio - Not that long ago it was said that the winner on Saturday will face Ricky Burns for the title, is that still the case?

Kevin - Well I think that was something to hype it up a bit, Ricky fights at Super Featherweight. Maybe I’m wrong I don’t know, when I win this fight maybe he’ll step up I don’t know.

We’ve done a few rounds sparring here at the TRAD TKO Gym, he’s tough and he’s fit. Good spars, the first was a good even spar, the second spar was a bit tight, it was a good hard twelve rounds, which goes to show how fit he was.

He’s a brilliant talent, I’m a big fan of Ricky Burns, he’s done it the hard way and come out on top.

Rio - OK, so when you win this fight who do you think the opponent is likely to be?

Kevin - Brandon Rios and Frank (Warren) did say another name but I can’t remember who it was. I’m not fussed I’m happy and grafting hard.

I’m going to win this fight and then beat Brandon Rios or whoever for the title that’s for sure.


Rio - Just want to go off subject for my last question and ask what were your thoughts on the Klitschko-Haye fight?

Kevin - I didn’t think David seemed right at all, he strolled a bit. He was outsized, I don’t think he was outclassed, it was a size matter.

I’d like to have seen Dave go in there and have a punch up rather than look for the knockout. Dave lost on points so that’s the way it is on the way he done things.

You’ve got to respect the guy he went in there and with a World Class Heavyweight and stayed the twelve rounds.

I’d like to see him come back, drop down a weight. I sent him a message last week and said if ever he wants to call me and have a chat or get away from all the crap. I know what it’s like to get beat when everyone is expecting you to win.

I really do hope that he comes back from this as he’s a world class fighter.

Rio - Thank you so much for taking the time to talk with me yet again and good luck on Saturday.

Kevin - My pleasure as always.


Kevin Mitchell versus John Murray, for the WBO Inter-Continental Lightweight title will feature on Ricky Burns’ defense of his WBO World Super Feathweight crown against Nicky Cook at the Echo Arena in Liverpool on Saturday 16th July 2011.

Tickets, priced at £50, £80 and £100, are available on 0844 8000 400 or www.echoarena.com

Burns is Hungry for Cook

Ahead of his third WBO title defence Ricky Burns claims he is prepared to beat Nicky Cook “by any means necessary” and looks forward to a week of binge eating and nights in. 31-2 Burns has said that dieting before a fight is the hardest part of being a boxer and Nicky Cook stands in his way of a big mac.
Not only has trainer Billy Nelson has not only try and get Ricky Burns fighting fit he has also tightened the diet belt on the Scot.

“Once the fights over I’ll just chill out and live on takeaways for the next few weeks. Right now my body is just craving fatty foods: it’s just about all I can think about” added Burns.

Ricky Burns is yet to win a fight as a world champion but maybe this weekend’s England v Scotland battle just might be the perfect opportunity for Burns to rectify that unwanted record. Burns seems unfazed however and like any fighter would be more than happy with a win.

“If you go out looking for a knockout it never happens, my attitude is that I just want to get in there and win by any means necessary”

It has been reported that Burns’ manager Alex Morrison has made an official protest against one of the judges chosen for the bout. Englishman Terry O’Connor is under scrutiny from Morrison who is said to be unhappy with O’Connor’s decision making in the past.

“we’ve been told that it is three English Judges and an English referee, but it is up to me to take it out of the referee’s hands” said Burns.

Derry Mathews 'Ahead of Jennings' Exclusive

One of the many talents fron Liverpool shared hid views with Silver Dukes ahead of his Summer Bash 'em up. Derry Mathews speaks of the past, present, future and of course NO WAY OUT.

Dukes; Firstly how are preparations going?

Derry: prep has gone first class once again, Oliver Harrison as got me in great condition along with Johnny Roye and James Morton at the university where I do my strength work, I also have a mind coach Brian Macready who has done some great work with me, am leaving nothing to chance.

Dukes: You were originally scheduled to fight Gavin Rees who unfortunately suffered ligament damage in training, how has the change of opponent affected your training schedule?

Derry: I was down to fight Jennings first then the Rees fight came along so it hasn’t been to bad have let Oliver and Bri deal with the coaching have just out on with staying focused.

Dukes: So July 30^th Merseyside Derby with Stephen Jennings not a bad substitute for Rees?

Derry; No its a hard fight this is his chance to go up the ladder so I have to make sure am ready and on the 30th I think a few will realise am a few leagues ahead of Ste at this stage in are careers.


Dukes: Rees Tweeted he would reschedule the fight as soon as he’s fit, is that still the plan after Jennings?


Derry: The Rees fight is happening in October we have done the deal with Eddie Hearn and I think the fans want to see it.
I for one can’t wait to see the fight with Gavin Rees.

Dukes: It seemed the Jennings fight was made almost instantly after Rees pulled out, how did your Team manage to pull that off?

Derry: The Jennings fight was already on until I got the Rees fight offered to me soon as fight was cancelled I spoke to Ste Vaughan Jr and told him to make the fight ASAP, the show sold out in 10 days there’s no tickets left. I keep telling promoters am a ticket seller and we have the best fans on the planet.


Dukes: Jennings at 27years old and only 5 pro bouts under his belt, have you had a chance to really study him, couldn’t have been easy to get tactics put together for this one?


Derry: Yeah I know Ste well, we are mates, we boxed each other 3 times, I won all 3 so he will want to get a win , he’s a good fighter and is meant to be a big puncher but like I’ve said before to people am the biggest puncher at 9st 9 , lets see how he handles going 10 rounds getting hit back, remember bags in the gym don’t hit back opponents do.


Dukes: We briefly spoke to Paul Smith Jr about the talent coming out of Liverpool and another Merseysider Tony Bellew sets out this Saturday night to make his claim for a world title shot just how many future world champions are coming out of Liverpool with yourself not too far away from an EBU title shot?

Derry: Liverpool is flying at the moment and not trying to sound big headed I feel me and Vaughan are boxing it back on the map I was our first champion in many years have been a pro nearly 10 years now and like I said I brought a title to the city then rest of lads have kept it up, the talent is best in country look at the likes of smith brothers, Bellew Selkirk Rocky Fielding, Paul Edwards the lads at the gym Martin Murray there all capable of winning major titles.

Dukes: The lightweight division is really heating up with Murray v Mitchell also what is your take on the current Lightweight scene?　

Derry: 9st 9 is a great division to be in I rate Mitchell as the best out there I honestly think he is a world class fighter just had a bad day at the office last time, then there is Murray Crolla Rees, Limmond and myself, you try tell me that this is not the hardest weight to win a British title out right.

Dukes: Just how far can Derry Mathews go?

Derry: Derry Mathews will go to the top again, first I have got to deal with Jennings then I’ll prepare for Rees then I’ll leave the rest to Oliver and Ste Vaughan Jr but I want a big world title fight that would top my career off.

A big thanks to Derry Mathews for taking the time to speak to us ahead of another big night for domestic Boxing.

Sergio Martinez is not a machine - Darren Barker

Shaun Brown
Undisputed Fight Magazine

“I’ve been fighting 16 years and it’s all been building for this one moment.”  - Darren Barker

Many observers probably scoffed at the idea of the London middleweight going from going 12 rounds with the unheralded Domenico Spada to pitting his wits against world beater Sergio Martinez in the space of six months.

But come October 1 at the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, the 29-year-old will enter the ring and square off against the man that many feel is only second to Manny Pacquiao on pound-for-pound lists. “I know what I’m going up against. I haven’t stopped watching him (Martinez) for the last few years. But he’s not a machine, he’s only a man and this is sport. If everything was a formality in sport no-one would watch it. Everyone loves the underdog, that’s why the Rocky films did so well,” said Barker when speaking to Undisputed.

Barker joins an ever growing Brit pack who found themselves plucked from fighting mid-level opposition to being matched up against someone, that on paper, is a challenge far too great. But the confidence is already bubbling away in the European Middleweight champion. “I’ve got a real feeling I can pull a big upset off. I’m bigger than him, I can match his hand speed and I’ve got a new found enthusiasm for the sport. Added to that I’ve got a seven month old little daughter that gives me a greater reason for doing it. I’ll be training like a lunatic,” warned Barker.

With so many British boxing fans willing to travel the world come rain, hail or shine, Barker is hoping he brings with him his own ‘Barmy Army.’ “We’ve already put out some feelers for who’s coming out. A lot of people are up for coming over but no package prices have been mentioned yet. It’s not exactly cheap but we’ll see what happens.”

Should Barker pull off one of the biggest boxing upsets in recent memory he wants to ensure that everyone realises what he will have achieved. “It’s not like I’m fighting a champion from one of the governing bodies I am fighting the best man I can possibly fight. I think the Ring Magazine title will be on the line, which means a lot to me. But when I do beat him, title or not I will have beaten the top man.

Joe Gallagher: Kevin Mitchell will be suffering on Saturday night | Manchester Evening News - menmedia.co.uk

Joe Gallagher: Kevin Mitchell will be suffering on Saturday night Manchester Evening News - menmedia.co.uk

King Khan hopes Morales Will Be Next

Little over a week away from his unification fight with Zab Judah in Vegas Amir Khan is hoping to fight again before the year is out and is hoping Erik Morales will be in the opposite corner.

WBA Light Welterweight champion Khan told Rueters “I am hoping to fight Erik Morales, which would be a big fight for me. He’s a big name in the States. From there, maybe I will move up to 147lbs and try to take on Floyd Mayweather”

One thing is for sure, Amir Khan as we all know will never have trouble finding opponents and although many would feel the winner of Maidana/Guerrero would have or should have been Khan’s number one choice once they settle the score but now it looks like team Khan have other ideas.

Erik Morales is scheduled to fight one of the UK’s rising Welterweight stars Anthony Crolla September 17^th sharing the bill with Mayweather v Ortiz. I imagine Amir Khan believes this is somewhat of a mismatch with no mention whatsoever of one of the Denton Gym Warriors Crolla. Anthony ‘Million Dollar’ Crolla has all the tools in his armoury to cause an aging Morales all kinds of problems and is more than capable of picking up a win in Vegas.

I would like to see Khan take on Robert Guerrero, he is well over due another title bout but maybe this fight could be a potential bump in Khan’s road to Mayweather. Khan feels he needs a stepping stone fight before Mayweather and I don’t blame him, you certainly do not want to miss the main course and go straight for the desert and personally I would like Khan to take a closer look at home. Sheffield up and comer Kell Brook would be a great fight if Khan would take a fight back in the UK which is not likely to happen as the money would not be as great, also Khan v Brook would be a hard sell in the States as it seems not many people like Khan and Brook is unheard of Stateside.

Let’s pretend it is September 18^th and Ant Crolla did win last night in Vegas, with Crolla putting a show on in Las Vegas maybe Khan v Crolla could may sell in the US but I can’t remember the last time two brits headlined Vegas and maybe I’m dreaming but rather than talk a great fight with Kell Brook he should take the fight and Anthony Crolla is by no means too far behind.

Lee Purdy’s One Eye On Vassell

Ahead of his British Welterweight title defence against Craig Watson this coming Saturday night Lee Purdy hopes a win will secure a rematch with Denton Vassell. Colchester’s Purdy has said “I would love another go at Denton if I beat Craig, I am sure I can avenge that set back”

Vassell came out on top with a narrow point’s victory over Purdy in their Commonwealth title bout in April.

Purdy followed this hic-up with a 5^th round stoppage win over Craig Watson to pick up the British title and will be hoping to prove this was by no means a fluke when the pair meet again in Oldham.

Lee Purdy with only two professional defeats on is record signed a three fight deal with Hatton promotions with Denton amongst the same stable the rematch should not be too difficult to put together.

Also fighting in Oldham this Saturday night Ricky Hatton’s youngsters are out in force with Austin Hornsby v Jason Nesbitt, Dean Halsall takes on Ryan Clark and Matthew Clarkson laces up against James Tucker.

Find out the latest on Amir Khan ahead of his Unification showdown with Zab Judah
Courtesy of Fightnews.com

How has this camp been? Has it been better than the past three camps which involved traveling with trainer Freddie Roach (Philippines, Vancouver, Dallas, etc.)?

“This camp has been very smooth. We arrived in Los Angeles before the fight with Zab Judah was officially announced because we knew that the July 23 date was set in stone for my fight. When Timothy Bradley declined our last offer, we made a deal with Judah and we’ve been focusing on him since early June.”

“Obviously not traveling to the Philippines, Dallas or even Vancouver has made this an easier camp. There’s obviously less distractions this time. Although going to the Philippines to train with Manny was a terrific experience; any chance to train with one of the best fighters in the world is always an opportunity worth taking.”

How is it working again with Alex Ariza? Can you describe his help in preparing you for the fight with Zab Judah?

“I’m glad to be back with Alex, he’s a very important member of the team. My conditioning for this fight is top notch as he continues to challenge me with various morning workouts and other strength and conditioning routines. He’s got terrific ideas and I appreciate the variety of what we do on a daily basis.”

How do you feel about the talk coming from Zab Judah during the training camp? Does it feel like he’s trying to get you off edge?
“At first I was a little taken back, but that’s how Zab is. I don’t take much of it personally. He’s a terrific fighter with a wealth of experience. He tried to get under my skin at the press conference and on Twitter, but come July 23 I’ll be able to show the world who is better and that’s all that matters.”

Can you discuss how it feels to return to Mandalay Bay, the site of your 2010 “Fight of the Year” performance against Marcos Maidana?
“I’m truly thrilled to be fighting again at Mandalay Bay. It’s a beautiful casino and resort for the fans and the arena is a perfect place to come and see the fight. My fight with Maidana was a classic and I look forward to putting on another sensational performance.”

This is your third fight in the United States, do you feel that fight fans and media are giving you more attention and respect?
“Fans in the U.S. are very much ‘show me what you got’ type fans, which I like. I’ve had great responses from fans after my wins against Malignaggi and Maidana and I look forward to continuing to earn their respect. Same with the [American] boxing writers, they’ve been very fair to me. That’s all I can ask.”

Generally speaking, what do you think will be your keys to a victory over Zab Judah?
“My keys to beating Zab are to stay focused and listen to Freddie’s plan. Freddie does a great job analyzing my opponents and putting together great plans towards victory. I’m fully confident that we’re putting the work in with our preparations that will lead to a victory on July 23.”

Freddie Roach, Khan’s Trainer How do you feel training camp is going?
“We had our best day of sparring on Friday (July 8). Everything is on schedule. We’ll be cutting down on sparring now; he peaked at 10 rounds. Now we’re down to eight, six and then four rounds sessions.”

When will you break camp to head to Las Vegas?
“We will travel to Las Vegas after training on Monday (July 18).”

Murray v Mitchell A Look Ahead

Murray eyes up WBA Title after Mitchell KO

Boxing returns to Liverpool this weekend with no less than four titles on the line. Manchester’s John Murray promises to steal the headlines when he defends his European Lightweight title against Kevin Mitchell and a win for Murray may well land him a long awaited world title fight and WBA champion Brandon Rios seems to fit the bill.

“I seen Rios fight at the weekend and he looks like a good champion, I’ve always said that I want the big fights and I’d love to fight him next” said Murray.

Murray also confident to make a statement against Mitchell to make the rest of the champions in the division sit up and takes note.

Where there’s a Murray there’s always a Kevin Mitchell close behind and not be over shadowed by John Murray’s world title claims Mitchell added “John Murray can talk about Rios all he wants, he has to get passed me first, I am going to knock him out on Saturday so he can kiss goodbye to his dreams”

“Rios in an all action fighter and a fight between us would be an absolute classic” added Mitchell.

The Murray v Mitchell fight is sure to be explosive with John Murray intent on hurting Kevin Mitchell and proving once again he belongs at the top table and mix it up with the best Lightweights around the globe.

The talk will all be over come Saturday night and personally I only see one outcome and that is a John Murray win. Not forgetting the other three headlining fights Ricky Burns v Nicky Cook for the WBO Super Featherweight title, Tony Bellew v Ovill McKenzie for the British and Commonwealth Light Heavyweight titles and Frankie Gavin v Curtis Woodhouse for the WBO Intercontinental Welterweight title.

If that is not enough boxing action for you or if you’re just greedy Frank Warren has thrown in a tasty under card with Liverpool’s own Prizefighter champion Rocky Fielding v Jamie Ambler and Craig Watson v Lee Purdy.

Pascal to Bute 'Time to Step It Up'

　

Former WBC, IBO and Ring Magazine Light Heavyweight champion has said it is about time Lucian Bute fought fighters of his own calibre as ‘Mister KO’ IBF Super Middleweight champion turns down Pascal for the 4^th time. Jean Pascal has stated that Lucian Bute does not want to take any risks.

“After my fight against Bernard Hopkins we offered Lucian Bute to fight me next this fall, and he said no” Pascal is said to be disappointed with the refusal, as he thinks a boxer should be brave enough to take on challenges adding if a boxer does not take chances they will find themselves amongst a lot of controversies.

Lucian Bute is undefeated with a 29-0 record 24 coming by way of knockout and Pascal had this to say “he is a great fighter but he’s always fighting boxers below his level and he needs to step up his game and fight boxers of his calibre”

It seems Jean Pascal is desperate to land this fight with Bute which would certainly be a test for the Romanian now based in Canada.

Lucian Bute retained his IBF crown at the weekend with an impressive 4^th round KO of Jean-Paul Mendy in Bucharest in what was Bute’s eighth successful title defence since taking claim over the strap in 2007.

Would a move to Light Heavyweight suit the 31 year old Southpaw with only one Professional fight at the weight whist there are still world class opponents at Super Middleweight that are yet to share a ring with Bute such as Mikkel Kessler, Andre Ward, Carl Froch, Kelly Pavlik to name but a few although I am sure Jean Pascal would not hesitate taking the fight at Super Middleweight where his only defeat only defeat came by the hands of WBC champion Carl Froch.

In hindsight both Super Middleweight and Light Heavyweight divisions have so much to offer to the boxing universe and we can expect many great fights in the coming years and you could argue any of the top 15 in both divisions has the tools to be world champions. I look forward to seeing what the new boxing season throws at us.

Overlooking Barker Could Dazzle Martinez

　

　

Two time European champion Darren Barker will be packing his over night bag with Eddie Hearn and the team July 20^th when they make their way to New York City for the first face to face press conference with 47-2-2 WBC Diamond Middleweight champion Sergio Martinez.

As the build up begins boxing fans and boxing experts are already having their say and it does not make good reading for team barker thus far. Many feel the Barker v Martinez fight has only been made to keep Martinez busy whilst waiting for Charvez Jr, Miguel Cotto or Antonio Margarito to make themselves available to fight the argentine.

Not all boxing heads are as cynical nor as quick to draw fire on Darren Barker’s chances on October 1^st at Boardwalk Hall, New Jersey. I have been looking at some of the fan’s reactions to this fight from across the pond and have been pleasantly surprised. Darren Barker will hardly be a household name in the USA unless you’re a Silver Dukes Boxing fan but word is spreading stateside and there are those that have taken note of Dazzling Dal’s showdown with the 2^nd ranked pound 4 pound fighter in the world.

One fan quoted “Martinez looks amazing against average fighters but ordinary against a skilful fighter” another saying “Barker has some real boxing skills and will cause Martinez some problems”

The skills Darren possesses may well cause problems for Martinez. Barker is somewhat of a 12 round specialist and on his ring return back in April against hard hitting Italian Domenico Spada Darren’s full fitness was questioned prior to the fight yet Barker comfortably lasted 12 rounds and out pointed Spada.

I followed the early stages of negotiations of this fight and must admit I thought “what a great opportunity for Darren” and though I stand by my claim as we get closer to the fight and news of press conferences I am starting to get a worried for our own Darren Barker as either way you look at it, it’s going to be tough and the training camp will have to be perfect.

Many would argue Barker has not faced anyone with the power of Martinez and many more would not argue with that claim but Barker has a good boxing brain and I believe the tactics will be right on the night. Do I think Barker will win? It is too early to say, do I think Barker can win? Most certainly.

Verbal Low Blows Gavin v Woodhouse

Frankie Gavin and Curtis Woodhouse have been in fine voice once again heading into this weekend’s Boxing overdose in Liverpool. Gavin put’s his WBO Intercontinental Welterweight title on the line against former Birmingham city footballer Curtis Woodhouse as part of Frank Warren’s feast of boxing July 16^th at the Echo Arena Liverpool.

Both these fighters have close connections with Birmingham city and Gavin has said “he never made it as a footballer and he’ll never make it as a boxer. Woodhouse used to play for city but I never seen him because I only went to see the first team”

“He threatens to knock me out, that is a total lack of respect and he will be made to pay” added Gavin. Not to be out done in this war of words Woodhouse hit back “Frankie Gavin has had it fairly easy so far, he beat a washed up Young Mutley who didn’t mount an attack all night”

“let’s see what Gavin’s chin is like once I land on it, he can’t stay out of my way for 12 rounds, Gavin has said he will retire if I beat him, so I can’t wait to see if he sticks to his word” added Woodhouse.

These new verbal low blows came about after Frankie Gavin failed to make the contracted 144lb in a preliminary weigh in and the fight is now to be at the full 147lb Welterweight limit. Woodhouse was outraged as the fight was contracted as a catch weight fight “I already agreed to move up to 10st 4lbs (144lbs) to fight him and now they want another 3lbs off me. It’s unprofessional, they will want me to wear a blindfold next” said Woodhouse.

Gavin v Woodhouse is accompanied by Tony Bellew v Ovill McKenzie 2, with the entire drug testing, and cheating claims on McKenzie’s behalf certainly has injected Bellew with inspiration and determination. The long awaited death match with John Murray and Kevin Mitchell could possibly be the fight of the night with both of these fighters out for blood and each claiming we won’t be seeing 12 rounds. The main event sees Ricky Burns v Nicky Cook in a champion v former champion fight. Also the ring return of Prizefighter champion Rocky Fielding.

I for one can not wait for Saturday Fight Night. If you’re a betting man it is certainly these sorts of nights where a spread bet could land you a big pay out. Check out Predictions and betting for my Saturday night picks.
It is certainly no secret that Gavin and Woodhouse will not be sending each other Christmas cards but as far as the fight goes it certainly seems like a great appetiser before the main course on Saturday night.

Another World Title Born?

Former WBA champion Ruslan Chagaev (27-1) will taking on undefeated Alexander Povetkin (21-0) on August 27th for David Haye’s former strap WBA heavyweight title. Klkitschko is now super WBA champion.

Freeing up WBA strap allows Heavyweights to fight for a title after all without stepping in the ring with either Klitschko, so we have Chagaev/Povetkin go into war for the WBA title while Wladimir Klitschko is given a made up title for all of his hard work and domination over the last decade or so.

In hindsight the Klitschko’s dream of holding every major title was short lived but surely this would put either Klitschko as number one contender for the WBA title come august 28th?.

You would feel it was only matters of time before the Klitschko’s once again hold every heavyweight title and what do the world boxing association do if it is Wladimir that regains the strap? Invent a super duper title to give other heavyweight contenders a look in? Where does it end?.


In other news Frank Warren told thesun.co.uk that he thinks David Haye should retire now rather than wait until October 13th like previously planned. “Haye has maintained he would retire on October 13th on his 31st birthday but he should bring this forward. His heavyweight career ended last Saturday and there is nowhere left for him to go”.

Warren added he wasn’t happy with the way David Haye flopped to the canvas and looked at the referee if he was hoping to get Wladimir disqualified or deducted points.

It has been said Haye will find out on Monday whether or not he will get the rematch he is so desperately trying to land with Wladimir before deciding his future. Personally I don’t think Wladimir would be too interested in the rematch with little more than a good pay day to fight for. I am sure the Klitschko’s are hardly strapped for cash but we should find out soon enough.

Joe Gallagher ‘You Fight Us All’ Exclusive Part 2

Yesterday I published part 1 of this Joe Gallagher Special where we heard the great man’s words on future blockbuster Anthony ‘Million Dollar’ Crolla and his personal reactions to Matthew ‘Mack the Knife’ Knife’ Macklin champion’s efforts in Germany. Now you have had time to take every word in and get your breath back it is time for part two.

With Frank Warren’s master class show case just around the corner that sees European and world titles on display I though it was only fair to get Joe’s thoughts ahead of the North v South battle where John Murray takes on Kevin Mitchell.

Joe; “I am really looking forward to this fight; Mitchell has said he is a step up in class for John, NO WAY. John has fought many times on the top bills in the big stage. John fought on the undercard of De La Hoya v Mayweather in Vegas, that fight is the biggest grossing fight box office has seen for years. Murray also fought on Ricky Hatton’s Vegas bill and put in a career’s best performance in Vegas. John Sparred with Hatton and Shane Mosley in the States, Mosley was also soaring with Katsidis at the time and came over to tell me that John hits harder than Katsidis, and that was way back then”

“Mitchell got destroyed against Katsidis and I know he has been ill with a viral infection but I want the best from Mitchell come fight night. Kevin has some great people behind him in Mark and Jimmy Tibbs and I wouldn’t expect anything less than 100% from them. Mark does some great work with his guys and Jimmy knows he has to deliver. Jimmy knows his stuff and I know he will be under a little bit of pressure. The guys from the east end are great and they have a great community down there”
　
“I have watched Kevin Mitchell for years, he has a good left hand and I know he will be in great shape but come fight night he will catch the John Murray virus, coming out of the fight all bumpy and black and blue”
“I know how the first round will go for Mitchell, he will box a good round with a fight and run mentality but can he get away with that and deal with John for 12 Rounds?. Murray will drag Mitchell into deep waters and watch his drowned”

I briefly asked Joe just how far off a world title is from finding its way to John Murray; he had this to say;
“We’re not looking past Kevin at the moment and July 16^th, I’m hoping John and Kevin will put on a spectacle to show the potential john has of making a fight a great fight. Thing is, we are going into this fight night with Frank Warren and we have had showdowns with Hennessy Sports in the past with great success, our aim is to send Mitchell packing then we will take it all in our stride”
“I wish I was watching this fight at home”

Dukes: What has the build up been like to this fight?

Joe: “I think this fight has been lost in the David Hay haze, and wished more people had got behind it but it’s picking up pace. It would have been good to have the fight in Kevin’s backyard as once again they have a great boxing community down in the East End. It is always great in Liverpool, at the Olympia or the Echo Arena. We have a lot big fights coming up for John, Crolla, Macklin, Callum and Mark so it’s a really busy time for everyone at the gym”
“We all pull together for every fight, YOU DON’T JUST FIGHT ONE OF US, YOU FIGHT US ALL”.

“We had a great spirit in Germany for Macklin, the running the sparring and the perfect camp, just not the perfect result. No-one has achieved what we have done Joe Murray won in Vegas and no-one wrote about it. We get great fighters in great shape, we have these young boys coming through some are ABA world champions, it’s a great formula for the future and everyone has always stayed around and trained”

“Success breeds success, we have a lot of great Boxing Trainer’s in the UK. I have spent a lot of time with Neil Fannan in the past and he is producing some great fighters David Coldwell is another that we don’t hear much about. If you’re not Freddie roach or Adam Booth they don’t want to know”

“I was at the Groves v Degale fight and all you heard afterwards was how Booth was a master tactician and he was given all the plaudits, I seen Groves going back to the dressing alone while everyone was patting Adam Booth on the back. We do our bit but it’s the fighters that get the job done”

Once again, it was a great pleasure talking to Joe and his fighters so far this week. It opens your eyes when you get an insight to just how much goes on behind the scenes. Every time I was on the phone to Joe it seemed a future world champion had just walked in the gym. Gallagher’s gym has certainly got to be up there with some of the best in the world.

A massive thanks to Joe Gallagher and everyone that has given us a look in, I’m sure this will not be the last time you hear the names from Gallagher’s gym.

The A-Force is With You…..Really?

Call me crazy “you’re crazy” glad we got that out of the way, but am I wrong in thinking winning a title in boxing is the first rung on the ladder to more titles?. In the past a loss on the record was difficult to come back from just ask Prince Naseem but more recently it seems it is all not bad losing that sacred 0.

Well within the last 48 hours we have seen the news of James Degale returns to training and is ready to fight on following his lose to George Groves. This is great news for Degale and for British boxing as a collective. James Degale as I’m sure you all remember lost his British title to Bitter domestic rival and former stable mate St George Groves back in May, Groves now proudly holds the British and Commonwealth Super Middleweight titles but it has been announced that Degale’s return will be for the EBU Super Middleweight title.

What I am struggling to get my head around is how does that work?, Degale failed in his bid to add the Commonwealth title to his British strap but he lands a shot at the European title before George Groves even gets a look in. this is not Degale’s fault of course it is just another genius piece of work by Frank Warren. Once again do records not mean as much as we think? I will never pretend to understand boxing politics but it seems if you’re not first you’re last and there are no prizes for 2^nd place.

Maybe Groves’ team have something else planned or they were simply too slow out of the blocks, I think it is wrong though. All due respect for Warren getting this fight for Degale, this is why he is amongst the top elite when it comes to promoters but the EBU board should maybe have a good look at themselves. I really hope James is victorious and this could be a short cut to the Groves rematch as Degale will once again have something George Groves wants.

In other news Audley Harrison is back on the scene and looking for takers on twitter, his most recent saying he wants the winner of Derek Chisora and Tyson Fury. One fan had put the question to A-force about facing the International Heavyweight Prizefighter champion Mike Perez. I think Perez would be a great fight Harrison but feel the 25 year old (16-0 12KO) Cuban would be a big risk for the 39 year old Harrison.

Perez is a virtually an unknown fighter on these shores and a loss for Harrison would affectively retire him.
Harrison I think feels this might be his one last opportunity to get his hands on a title of any kind and tweeted “British title or Mike Perez with no titles”. Audley Harrison’s last outing was far from spectacular in his 3^rd round TKO at the hands of David Haye. Neither fighter threw a punch for the first two rounds then Haye stopped Harrison in the 3^rd enough said, that was the full fight review right there.

So once again I ask does a loss mean nothing anymore? Granted Harrison is a former EBU champion just as Degale is a former British champion, the key word here is ‘Former’. I don’t think Harrison should not be hand picking who he fights next.

Maybe it is just the fact that this could well be Harrison’s last chance at a title but as much as he is saying I want the winner of Chisora/Fury and I won’t fight Perez because he has no title, what about the winner then?. What does Harrison have that would interest Chisora if he won? Chisora was only weeks away from a world title fight I doubt that he would entertain the Harrison fight if either of the Klitschko‘s come knocking. If Tyson Fury won he may well be interested but with David Price v John McDermott’s British title eliminator coming up I’m sure they would have a word or two to say about it.

I know I am sounding unfair on Audley Harrison’s part but I’m just looking at it from a different angle, we have top British Heavyweights battling it out to earn their title shots by winning their fights not using their rank as leverage. I wish Audley the best of luck with whom ever he fights. He has a great love/hate relationship with the fans and it's never boring with A-force around, he's been a good ambassador for British Heavyweights. Harrison has had some quality fights and the point i'm trying to make is after aloss you should have to prove yourslf before another title shot unless it is a rematch (then it's quids in).

I would like to see him fight David Price or indeed Mike Perez to really give him one more test. David Price needs a test also but Audley already turned down a fight with Price too.

Joe Gallagher “You Fight Us All” Exclusive Part 1

Following up on our Gallagher's Gym Specials this week there is one man we could not do without and that of course is the man himself. Joe Gallagher spoke to in us in depth on all the ins and outs and upside downs he has faced as a trainer and the current events involving some of the best British boxers our little island has to offer. Joe certainly no stranger to producing domestic champions and now targeting the world stage but Joe has a successful amateur pedigree being prepped for the next wave of talent to come out of the Midlands.
The past fortnight or so has been a somewhat of a tea cup ride for everyone involved with Gallagher’s Gym, Matthew Macklin’s valiant attempt in Germany stunned the locals in his controversial loss to Felix Sturm, Anthony Crolla made light work of Herve De Luca with a first round TKO win in Wigan, Joe Murray picked up his first professional title also in Wigan with an unanimous decision win over James Ancliffe.

Joe Gallagher was on the verge of 50 straight wins as a trainer, this wasn’t to be and how did Joe deal with this? By landing a world class fight for Anthony Crolla on the biggest stage of them all, ‘Money’ Mayweather and ‘Million Dollar’ Crolla on the same bill in Vegas September 17^th.

Anthony Crolla takes on veteran hard man Erik Morales, here’s what Joe had to say on the fight;
Joe: the negotiations are still ongoing but we hope to get the fight signed soon, the press releases and interest in the fight have been huge. I’m fully aware the Morales fight is a high risk fight for Anthony but he wants to prove what he is made of and it’s these sorts of fights you can’t turn away from. Anthony certainly is not going into the fight to make up numbers; he is one of if not the most improved British boxers over the last 12 months.

“I think Anthony has the tools to pull this off, the interest from his fans has been incredible with people getting in touch over flight details to make the trip over to America to see him. Everybody loves watching Floyd Mayweather as it is and it’s great for Ant to be apart of it and get the coverage he deserves in America.”
“Anthony has fought some top fighters all with winning records but has never received the coverage he deserves. His last fight he landed some amazing body shots that stopped a good fighter inside a round but still no credit”

I asked Joe Gallagher of is opinions on how it seems you can not fight a good fight these days without the quality of opponent being questioned, he replied “you can only beat the man in front of you, whether it lasts one round or 12 you just have to prepare for that fight, Crolla opponents have all had plenty of wins on their records”

“We really wanted the Gavin Rees fight but he chose to take up Derry Mathews challenge, Anthony only wants the best fights so he can prove to himself just how good he his, we have him sparring with the bigger lads in the gym and he holds his own, he is certainly reaping the rewards, we hope to keep him busy in the coming months”

It was great for us to hear Joe’s plans for Anthony Crolla he certainly looks like one to watch for the future. We could not let Joe leave us without a few words on Matthew Macklin and Mr Gallagher respectfully obliged:

“The amount of letters and emails we have received after the Macklin Sturm fight has been incredible with so many saying Macklin won the fight. I have watched the fight so many times, I have looked at the punches thrown and punches landed and each time it is the same result and the NEW…”

“I believe Matthew won that fight and two people that mattered saw it differently unfortunately; even the German and Bosnian newspapers and radio said Matthew won the fight. It goes to show how important home advantage is; the crowd knew Sturm needed to do something to change the fight and they really got behind Felix and the crowd even convinced Jim Watt that Sturm was winning. I just do not understand how a couple of good punches out weighed Matthew’s aggression and body shots. Mathew should be given respect; we were up against a world class fighter with a world class trainer. It was almost as hard for me as it was for Matthew. We had the perfect training camp and the perfect facilities in Germany. Their Hospitality was first class, we never wanted for anything”

Dukes: where do we stand on the rematch said to take place in November?

Joe: “Sturm’s people have left the diary open for Matthew in November, they’re very good people. No venue has been confirmed yet but a ring is a ring and a fight is a fight. My job is to make sure Matthew is primed and ready for the rematch. We are fully aware that Sturm is much tougher the second time around and he will study the tapes from the last fight just as we will”

“IF MATTHEW WAS CHAMPION GOING INTO THE FIGHT HOW MANY ROUNDS WOULD STURM HAVE TAKEN OFF HIM”

“In any fight you have to go on the better work, Matthew threw and landed twice as many punches but didn’t get it. Maybe I have to change the way I’m training our fighters differently”
　
What a great pleasure it was talking to one of the highest regarded trainer’s in the UK and to get his thoughts on how his fighters are doing in and outside of the ring. Over the last couple of days Joe Gallagher has been kind enough to allow us these exclusives with his fighters and sharing their stories with our viewers. Make sure you return to catch part 2 on Joe Gallagher as he talks about the mega fight that is John Murray v Kevin Mitchell. Joe also pays tribute to the other top Boxing trainer’s from the UK.