We've been doing these rankings for a minute now, but for those new to the party, here's the disclaimer: this is not a pound-for-pound list. Instead, it's a pseudo-scientific measure of who's hot right now, with points earned for activity, winning decisively and facing opponents with good records. For another view, read one of our first posts: How Our Rankings Work.
Now that we've got that out of the way, here's a fresh batch of power rankings that's been shaken up a bit from all of the big fights over the past two months. Even so, there's a familiar name on top...
1. Miguel Cotto - 24.74 - He's probably not the best boxer in the world, but he does put in consistently excellent performances against tough competition. He'll have to do that again to get past Antonio Margarito in July.
2. David Haye - 24.15 - The Hayemaker has knocked out his last four foes and currently rules the cruiserweight division with two iron fists. Time will tell if he's biting off more than he can chew by moving up to heavyweight.
3. Kelly Pavlik - 19.51 - The Ghost should only increase his score in June when he steps in against Gary Lockett. Who? Exactly.
4. Wladimir Klitschko - 19.00 - Tony Thompson is up next for the heavyweight champ. It can't possibly be as dull as the Ibragimov fight... can it?
5. Manny Pacquiao - 16.61 - He got past Juan Manuel Marquez, but just barely. Pacman could flash his KO power of old against David Diaz in June.
6. Joe Calzaghe - 16.00 - A victory over Bernard Hopkins is impressive, no matter how razor-thin the margin. Calzaghe's immediate future seems to hold several lucrative possibilities.
7. Floyd Mayweather - 15.60 - What's the world's best boxer doing all the way down here? Not enough boxing, that's what.
8. Samuel Peter - 15.27 - The Nigerian Nightmare slugged his way past Oleg Maskaev and is all of a sudden looking scary good.
9. Israel Vazquez - 15.16 - This guy really needs to think about fighting someone other than Rafael Marquez. Not because we wouldn't love to see them go for four - we would - but because doing that on a regular basis can't be good for his health.
10. Chris John - 15.05 - Perhaps someday this guy will fight here in the U.S. so we can see if he's really as good as his record makes him appear.
The next 7: Arthur Abraham, Ricky Hatton, Juan Diaz, Nate Campbell, Antonio Margarito, Junior Witter, Shane Mosley
20.4.08
20-20 Hindsight: What's Next for Calzaghe and Hopkins, Close Doesn't Mean Controversial and More
Even though it was much more of a chess match with boxing gloves than a slugfest, Saturday's fight between Joe Calzaghe and Bernard Hopkins wasn't totally devoid of drama. From the time that Calzaghe hit the canvas thanks to a quick but powerful right to the moment the split decision was announced, there was definite suspense.
It wasn't the type of fight to show to friends who aren't boxing fans to try to sell the sport though, and that's due in large part to Hopkins' defensive wizardry. Even in his 40's, The Executioner is quite simply the best defensive boxer I've ever seen, adept at not only blocking, slipping and evading punches, but also at controlling tempo and spacing. It's nearly impossible for opponents to line him up for anything significant, and his ability to fire off the ropes at the very last second is remarkable. Add in his timely clinches and his subtle (and not so subtle) tactics at extreme close range and it becomes an intimidating package for any opponent.
Against Calzaghe, Hopkins just didn't have enough offense to go with it. Too much jumping in without scoring, not enough of the jab and a real lack of weapons other than his counter right and body shots in close. You got the feeling that the fight was there for Bernard to win if he had just summoned up a little bit more of an attack, especially in the middle rounds when he admitted to pacing himself.
And lest we get too carried away with what Hopkins didn't do, proper credit needs to be given to Calzaghe for what he did. Joe is a rarity in the fight game in that he's a pressure fighter who can actually make in-fight adjustments. So many guys who come forward with high work rates just don't have a Plan B if things start going wrong - we've seen it recently with Paul Williams and Juan Diaz. Calzaghe's shown that he has a deeper bag of tricks against Mikkel Kessler and now against Hopkins, and that's what makes him the champ that he is.
As for the decision, there are no doubt people who think Hopkins should have won. There's nothing wrong with that, as there were a number of close rounds that were tough to score. But calling the decision controversial is just plain wrong, just as it was when Glen Johnson did it after his loss to Chad Dawson. A true robbery happens when one boxer clearly outclasses the other - say, nine rounds to three - but loses on the scorecards. That didn't happen to Johnson and it didn't happen Saturday either. Close doesn't equal controversial.
Hopkins asserted after the fight that the fans know he won the fight, but I don't expect a public outcry, and I'm sure he knows that deep down inside. He understands so many facets of the boxing game that he must realize his style just isn't fan-friendly, especially at this point in his career. If this is indeed the end of the road, he won't be able to say he never lost, but he will be able to say he couldn't be beaten decisively, and with the competition he's faced, that's saying something.
Calzaghe seems to have plenty of options for his next fight, though my brother Uatu made a good point when he suggested that he should really be thinking about only one or two more big fights before calling it quits. So much was made of Hopkins' age that it was easy to lose sight of the fact that Calzaghe is 36.
A fight with Kelly Pavlik would be appealing but dangerous for Calzaghe because even though he has the skills to befuddle The Ghost, getting caught by a right hand in that one would probably mean lights out. For financial and name recognition reasons, Roy Jones makes even more sense, and offers the Pride of Wales the best chance to put another big-name win on his resume.
It wasn't the type of fight to show to friends who aren't boxing fans to try to sell the sport though, and that's due in large part to Hopkins' defensive wizardry. Even in his 40's, The Executioner is quite simply the best defensive boxer I've ever seen, adept at not only blocking, slipping and evading punches, but also at controlling tempo and spacing. It's nearly impossible for opponents to line him up for anything significant, and his ability to fire off the ropes at the very last second is remarkable. Add in his timely clinches and his subtle (and not so subtle) tactics at extreme close range and it becomes an intimidating package for any opponent.
Against Calzaghe, Hopkins just didn't have enough offense to go with it. Too much jumping in without scoring, not enough of the jab and a real lack of weapons other than his counter right and body shots in close. You got the feeling that the fight was there for Bernard to win if he had just summoned up a little bit more of an attack, especially in the middle rounds when he admitted to pacing himself.
And lest we get too carried away with what Hopkins didn't do, proper credit needs to be given to Calzaghe for what he did. Joe is a rarity in the fight game in that he's a pressure fighter who can actually make in-fight adjustments. So many guys who come forward with high work rates just don't have a Plan B if things start going wrong - we've seen it recently with Paul Williams and Juan Diaz. Calzaghe's shown that he has a deeper bag of tricks against Mikkel Kessler and now against Hopkins, and that's what makes him the champ that he is.
As for the decision, there are no doubt people who think Hopkins should have won. There's nothing wrong with that, as there were a number of close rounds that were tough to score. But calling the decision controversial is just plain wrong, just as it was when Glen Johnson did it after his loss to Chad Dawson. A true robbery happens when one boxer clearly outclasses the other - say, nine rounds to three - but loses on the scorecards. That didn't happen to Johnson and it didn't happen Saturday either. Close doesn't equal controversial.
Hopkins asserted after the fight that the fans know he won the fight, but I don't expect a public outcry, and I'm sure he knows that deep down inside. He understands so many facets of the boxing game that he must realize his style just isn't fan-friendly, especially at this point in his career. If this is indeed the end of the road, he won't be able to say he never lost, but he will be able to say he couldn't be beaten decisively, and with the competition he's faced, that's saying something.
Calzaghe seems to have plenty of options for his next fight, though my brother Uatu made a good point when he suggested that he should really be thinking about only one or two more big fights before calling it quits. So much was made of Hopkins' age that it was easy to lose sight of the fact that Calzaghe is 36.
A fight with Kelly Pavlik would be appealing but dangerous for Calzaghe because even though he has the skills to befuddle The Ghost, getting caught by a right hand in that one would probably mean lights out. For financial and name recognition reasons, Roy Jones makes even more sense, and offers the Pride of Wales the best chance to put another big-name win on his resume.
19.4.08
Round by Round: Joe Calzaghe vs. Bernard Hopkins
The broadcast is off and running with Jim Lampley and Max Kellerman hyping tonight's bout between Joe Calzaghe and Bernard Hopkins. Max suggests that if Floyd Mayweather is upset by Oscar De La Hoya later this year, the winner of this one will be considered by many to be the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world.
Emanuel Steward ponders whether or not Calzaghe's lack of experience fighting in the U.S. will be a factor, and a video segment takes viewers inside JoeCal's world. Calzaghe says he wants to retire undefeated - no easy feat when you take on the likes of Hopkins, even at his current age.
Steward thinks B-Hop may have trouble with Calzaghe's speed. Now there's some discussion about the mind games Hopkins has been trying to play, and Kellerman states that this fight turns racial stereotypes of boxers on their heads. The next video package explores the mental aspect of Hopkins' game in more detail, including his treatment of the Puerto Rico flag before he fought Felix Trinidad and his "white boy" comment in the build-up to tonight's fight.
Celebrities at ringside include Whitney Houston, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Jay-Z, Jim Belushi, Pete Sampras, Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger. Sir Tom Jones handles the national anthem of Wales, while Ray J. does the same for the U.S.
The tale of the tape shows Hopkins with a slight height advantage and Calzaghe with a slight reach advantage. They both weighed in at 173 pounds.
Calzaghe makes his way to the ring, and the announcers say that while his fans have traveled well, he doesn't have the same fanatical following as Ricky Hatton. Hopkins gets a mixed reaction as he comes in. His robe says "Executioner" but his mask from his early career is definitely missed.
Joe Cortez is tonight's referee. Michael Buffer handles the introductions and we're all set to go.
Round 1
The opening seconds are cautious as the announce team talks about head butts. Calzaghe tries to get inside and they tie up. Joe trying the jab but no dice so far. Hopkins lands a right to the chin and Calzaghe goes down! That didn't look like it hurt him, but it did surprise him. Calzaghe can't figure out how to get in while punching. Joe misses a big left and B-Hop ties him up again. Calzaghe may be bleeding from the nose already. You couldn't script a better start for Hopkins.
Franchise: 10-8 Hopkins
Uatu: 10-8 Hopkins
Spartan117: 10-8 Hopkins
Round 2
Calzaghe has to make Hopkins work or this is not going to be close. Lots of roughhousing in close which definitely favors Bernard. Joe lands to the body but nothing significant. Cortez warns Joe for hitting behind the head and Bernard lands a right coming out of the break. Now Hopkins tries to come in and Cortez calls time for a low blow by Calzaghe. This fight may break the record for most clinches broken up by the ref, and Cortez is earning his money tonight.
Franchise: 10-9 Hopkins
Uatu: 10-9 Hopkins
Spartan117: 10-9 Hopkins
Round 3
CompuBox says Calzaghe has landed no jabs so far. Hopkins hit by a lead left but Hopkins gets an uppercut off inside. Hopkins goes to the body and clinches. Now a left by Calzaghe. Back against the ropes, B-Hop fights Joe off of him. Calzaghe flurries but Hopkins stands his ground. Steward thinks Joe will still get back into it. The announcers say it's a distance game right now, and it's hard to disagree. Left hands in the clinch by Joe and body shots; Hopkins scores with a counter right. Another ugly round that probably favors The Executioner.
Franchise: 10-9 Hopkins
Uatu: 10-9 Calzaghe
Spartan117: 10-9 Hopkins
Round 4
Joe lands a left coming into the corner but nothing else. Hopkins is just masterful at fighting the way he wants to fight. Bernard pawing with the jab; the crowd roars every time Joe scores whether it does damage or not. Cortez warns both men for rough tactics. Now they finally trade along the ropes. Calzaghe tries to duck in and throw the left but that's not working too well. Joe almost finds the range before the bell but still looks too cautious.
Franchise: 10-9 Hopkins
Uatu: 10-9 Calzaghe
Spartan117: 10-9 Hopkins
Round 5
Harold Lederman has this fight much closer than I do. Calzaghe finally finds a home for a few jabs. Hopkins tries to flurry but JoeCal is covered up. Left along the ropes by JoeCal. More clinches. Hopkins comes in to no avail. Bernard not quite as accurate with the counter shots in this round. Big swing and a miss with a JoeCal left. Right to the body by Hopkins but he hasn't done much offensively this round, and Calzaghe lands a left at the end of the round.
Franchise: 10-9 Calzaghe
Uatu: 10-9 Calzaghe
Spartan117: 10-9 Calzaghe
Round 6
The Welsh fans start a little singing in-between rounds. Steward says this fight will be difficult to score. Calzaghe's left is becoming more of a factor, but here's a flurry by B-Hop. Both men trade along the ropes in a roughly even exchange. Right by Hopkins answered by a Calzaghe left. Hopkins counters effectively now with a left. Straight left and right to the body by Joe. Calzaghe tries to steal the round with a late flurry and he may have won it anyway.
Franchise: 10-9 Calzaghe
Uatu: 10-9 Hopkins
Spartan117: 10-9 Calzaghe
Round 7
Left coming in by Calzaghe again. He looks much more relaxed now. Hopkins throwing one punch every time. He comes charging off the ropes but can't find much. The announcers are talking again about how tough the scoring will be. Jab by Joe and right to the body by Bernard. Good counter shots by Hopkins backed against the ropes. Calzaghe tries to surprise Hopkins quickly off the clinch. Both men flurry and come up mostly empty. Big exchange before the bell and Calzaghe almost stumbles down.
Franchise: 10-9 Calzaghe
Uatu: 10-9 Calzaghe
Spartan117: 10-9 Calzaghe
Round 8
Now Joe opens up with a flurry. Welshmen starting to get into it again. Jabs landing by Joe as Bernard ties up. Nice left upstairs by Calzaghe. Good counter by Hopkins, then both men land clean. Another left by Joe is answered by a right. Nice combo by Joe and he escapes the return fire. Nice dancing by Hopkins, and it looks like he landed a punch after the bell.
Franchise: 10-9 Calzaghe
Uatu: 10-9 Calzaghe
Spartan117: 10-9 Hopkins
Round 9
Nice right to the body by Bernard. Enzo Calzaghe really laid into his son between rounds. Good left to the head by Joe, then a jab. Flurry both ways along the ropes. Hopkins jumps forward and gets whacked in the side of the head. Plenty more wrestling if you like that sort of thing. Quick combo by Joe, then a hard right by Bernard. Left hand gets Hopkins' attention. Twin lefts by Calzaghe and counter right by Hopkins.
Franchise: 10-9 Calzaghe
Uatu: 10-9 Calzaghe
Spartan117: 10-9 Calzaghe
Round 10
CompuBox is having things go more and more Calzaghe's way, not that that means anything. Hopkins goes down but it looks like it was a low blow. Cortez gives Bernard five minutes to recover, but no point deduction seems to be coming. On replay, it's apparent Bernard pulled Joe's head down. It's quite possible Bernard is stalling for time. Calzaghe is loving it, playing to the crowd. It didn't slow Joe down, that's for sure. Hopkins lands a straight right coming in, then another jumping into the body. He's become more aggressive but it may be for naught. Calzaghe tags him coming in this time. Slapping punches both ways. Good lefts but Hopkins stands his ground. Both men let it fly at the bell, mostly for show. Ugly round.
Franchise: 10-9 Hopkins
Uatu: 10-9 Hopkins
Spartan117: 10-9 Hopkins
Round 11
A rare exchange in the center of the ring. Hopkins needs these last two rounds to be comfortable. Calzaghe finds the range coming in. Three clinches in a row. Hopkins pleading about getting hit in the back of the head. JoeCal backs Hopkins up a step. More grappling in the corner and B-Hop tries to plead for another low blow. Cortez says fight on. B-Hop is fired up now. Nice theatrics there by both guys.
Franchise: 10-9 Calzaghe
Uatu: 10-9 Calzaghe
Spartan117: 10-9 Calzaghe
Round 12
Left stuns Hopkins as they flurry. I think this one might be up for grabs. Enzo Calzaghe was still spurring his son on. Both men miss as they tie up. Good left by Joe and Bernard tries to counter. Hopkins looking a little more aggressive but it's not all effective. Exchanges along the ropes are mostly for show. Steward seems to think JoeCal's style will play with the Nevada judges. Ten seconds left and Bernard holds on. We'll go to the scorecards now and I wouldn't be surprised by anything.
Franchise: 10-9 Calzaghe
Uatu: 10-9 Calzaghe
Spartan117: 10-9 Calzaghe
Both men play to the crowd as we await the scores. That was more of a chess match than a brawl, but it was not without some drama.
Franchise scores it 114-113 Calzaghe, Uatu scores it 115-112 Calzaghe, Spartan117 scores it 114-113 Hopkins.
The judges score it 114-113 Hopkins, 115-112 Calzaghe and 116-111 Calzaghe. Your winner by split decision and new linear light heavyweight champion of the world, Joe Calzaghe.
Hopkins has a look of disbelief on his face, but that's to be expected. CompuBox had Calzaghe landing more punches against Hopkins than any opponent in his illustrious career. It also had Joe throwing more, landing more and connecting at a higher percentage. Take that for what you will.
Calzaghe says he was not really hurt by the first-round knockdown. He gives due credit to Hopkins for how tough a fight it was, and he admits he was wary of B-Hop's right hand. Joe doesn't think he was hurt at any time in the fight, and he makes a wry comment about the supposed low blow that had Hopkins complaining in the 10th round. He also says he doesn't know who he'll fight next, but does hint at Roy Jones. Steward would like to see that one.
Kellerman does get Hopkins to speak, and he says he was pacing himself in the middle rounds. He says all the fans except the Brits know he won the fight by picking up enough rounds. B-Hop says he was never hurt but did daze his foe several times. He says the fans are the real judges and know he won the fight. They watch the replay of the low blow together and Hopkins keeps pleading his case. Will this be it for him? The Executioner says he'll talk to his Golden Boy partners and let this fight marinate in the minds of the fans.
Emanuel Steward ponders whether or not Calzaghe's lack of experience fighting in the U.S. will be a factor, and a video segment takes viewers inside JoeCal's world. Calzaghe says he wants to retire undefeated - no easy feat when you take on the likes of Hopkins, even at his current age.
Steward thinks B-Hop may have trouble with Calzaghe's speed. Now there's some discussion about the mind games Hopkins has been trying to play, and Kellerman states that this fight turns racial stereotypes of boxers on their heads. The next video package explores the mental aspect of Hopkins' game in more detail, including his treatment of the Puerto Rico flag before he fought Felix Trinidad and his "white boy" comment in the build-up to tonight's fight.
Celebrities at ringside include Whitney Houston, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Jay-Z, Jim Belushi, Pete Sampras, Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger. Sir Tom Jones handles the national anthem of Wales, while Ray J. does the same for the U.S.
The tale of the tape shows Hopkins with a slight height advantage and Calzaghe with a slight reach advantage. They both weighed in at 173 pounds.
Calzaghe makes his way to the ring, and the announcers say that while his fans have traveled well, he doesn't have the same fanatical following as Ricky Hatton. Hopkins gets a mixed reaction as he comes in. His robe says "Executioner" but his mask from his early career is definitely missed.
Joe Cortez is tonight's referee. Michael Buffer handles the introductions and we're all set to go.
Round 1
The opening seconds are cautious as the announce team talks about head butts. Calzaghe tries to get inside and they tie up. Joe trying the jab but no dice so far. Hopkins lands a right to the chin and Calzaghe goes down! That didn't look like it hurt him, but it did surprise him. Calzaghe can't figure out how to get in while punching. Joe misses a big left and B-Hop ties him up again. Calzaghe may be bleeding from the nose already. You couldn't script a better start for Hopkins.
Franchise: 10-8 Hopkins
Uatu: 10-8 Hopkins
Spartan117: 10-8 Hopkins
Round 2
Calzaghe has to make Hopkins work or this is not going to be close. Lots of roughhousing in close which definitely favors Bernard. Joe lands to the body but nothing significant. Cortez warns Joe for hitting behind the head and Bernard lands a right coming out of the break. Now Hopkins tries to come in and Cortez calls time for a low blow by Calzaghe. This fight may break the record for most clinches broken up by the ref, and Cortez is earning his money tonight.
Franchise: 10-9 Hopkins
Uatu: 10-9 Hopkins
Spartan117: 10-9 Hopkins
Round 3
CompuBox says Calzaghe has landed no jabs so far. Hopkins hit by a lead left but Hopkins gets an uppercut off inside. Hopkins goes to the body and clinches. Now a left by Calzaghe. Back against the ropes, B-Hop fights Joe off of him. Calzaghe flurries but Hopkins stands his ground. Steward thinks Joe will still get back into it. The announcers say it's a distance game right now, and it's hard to disagree. Left hands in the clinch by Joe and body shots; Hopkins scores with a counter right. Another ugly round that probably favors The Executioner.
Franchise: 10-9 Hopkins
Uatu: 10-9 Calzaghe
Spartan117: 10-9 Hopkins
Round 4
Joe lands a left coming into the corner but nothing else. Hopkins is just masterful at fighting the way he wants to fight. Bernard pawing with the jab; the crowd roars every time Joe scores whether it does damage or not. Cortez warns both men for rough tactics. Now they finally trade along the ropes. Calzaghe tries to duck in and throw the left but that's not working too well. Joe almost finds the range before the bell but still looks too cautious.
Franchise: 10-9 Hopkins
Uatu: 10-9 Calzaghe
Spartan117: 10-9 Hopkins
Round 5
Harold Lederman has this fight much closer than I do. Calzaghe finally finds a home for a few jabs. Hopkins tries to flurry but JoeCal is covered up. Left along the ropes by JoeCal. More clinches. Hopkins comes in to no avail. Bernard not quite as accurate with the counter shots in this round. Big swing and a miss with a JoeCal left. Right to the body by Hopkins but he hasn't done much offensively this round, and Calzaghe lands a left at the end of the round.
Franchise: 10-9 Calzaghe
Uatu: 10-9 Calzaghe
Spartan117: 10-9 Calzaghe
Round 6
The Welsh fans start a little singing in-between rounds. Steward says this fight will be difficult to score. Calzaghe's left is becoming more of a factor, but here's a flurry by B-Hop. Both men trade along the ropes in a roughly even exchange. Right by Hopkins answered by a Calzaghe left. Hopkins counters effectively now with a left. Straight left and right to the body by Joe. Calzaghe tries to steal the round with a late flurry and he may have won it anyway.
Franchise: 10-9 Calzaghe
Uatu: 10-9 Hopkins
Spartan117: 10-9 Calzaghe
Round 7
Left coming in by Calzaghe again. He looks much more relaxed now. Hopkins throwing one punch every time. He comes charging off the ropes but can't find much. The announcers are talking again about how tough the scoring will be. Jab by Joe and right to the body by Bernard. Good counter shots by Hopkins backed against the ropes. Calzaghe tries to surprise Hopkins quickly off the clinch. Both men flurry and come up mostly empty. Big exchange before the bell and Calzaghe almost stumbles down.
Franchise: 10-9 Calzaghe
Uatu: 10-9 Calzaghe
Spartan117: 10-9 Calzaghe
Round 8
Now Joe opens up with a flurry. Welshmen starting to get into it again. Jabs landing by Joe as Bernard ties up. Nice left upstairs by Calzaghe. Good counter by Hopkins, then both men land clean. Another left by Joe is answered by a right. Nice combo by Joe and he escapes the return fire. Nice dancing by Hopkins, and it looks like he landed a punch after the bell.
Franchise: 10-9 Calzaghe
Uatu: 10-9 Calzaghe
Spartan117: 10-9 Hopkins
Round 9
Nice right to the body by Bernard. Enzo Calzaghe really laid into his son between rounds. Good left to the head by Joe, then a jab. Flurry both ways along the ropes. Hopkins jumps forward and gets whacked in the side of the head. Plenty more wrestling if you like that sort of thing. Quick combo by Joe, then a hard right by Bernard. Left hand gets Hopkins' attention. Twin lefts by Calzaghe and counter right by Hopkins.
Franchise: 10-9 Calzaghe
Uatu: 10-9 Calzaghe
Spartan117: 10-9 Calzaghe
Round 10
CompuBox is having things go more and more Calzaghe's way, not that that means anything. Hopkins goes down but it looks like it was a low blow. Cortez gives Bernard five minutes to recover, but no point deduction seems to be coming. On replay, it's apparent Bernard pulled Joe's head down. It's quite possible Bernard is stalling for time. Calzaghe is loving it, playing to the crowd. It didn't slow Joe down, that's for sure. Hopkins lands a straight right coming in, then another jumping into the body. He's become more aggressive but it may be for naught. Calzaghe tags him coming in this time. Slapping punches both ways. Good lefts but Hopkins stands his ground. Both men let it fly at the bell, mostly for show. Ugly round.
Franchise: 10-9 Hopkins
Uatu: 10-9 Hopkins
Spartan117: 10-9 Hopkins
Round 11
A rare exchange in the center of the ring. Hopkins needs these last two rounds to be comfortable. Calzaghe finds the range coming in. Three clinches in a row. Hopkins pleading about getting hit in the back of the head. JoeCal backs Hopkins up a step. More grappling in the corner and B-Hop tries to plead for another low blow. Cortez says fight on. B-Hop is fired up now. Nice theatrics there by both guys.
Franchise: 10-9 Calzaghe
Uatu: 10-9 Calzaghe
Spartan117: 10-9 Calzaghe
Round 12
Left stuns Hopkins as they flurry. I think this one might be up for grabs. Enzo Calzaghe was still spurring his son on. Both men miss as they tie up. Good left by Joe and Bernard tries to counter. Hopkins looking a little more aggressive but it's not all effective. Exchanges along the ropes are mostly for show. Steward seems to think JoeCal's style will play with the Nevada judges. Ten seconds left and Bernard holds on. We'll go to the scorecards now and I wouldn't be surprised by anything.
Franchise: 10-9 Calzaghe
Uatu: 10-9 Calzaghe
Spartan117: 10-9 Calzaghe
Both men play to the crowd as we await the scores. That was more of a chess match than a brawl, but it was not without some drama.
Franchise scores it 114-113 Calzaghe, Uatu scores it 115-112 Calzaghe, Spartan117 scores it 114-113 Hopkins.
The judges score it 114-113 Hopkins, 115-112 Calzaghe and 116-111 Calzaghe. Your winner by split decision and new linear light heavyweight champion of the world, Joe Calzaghe.
Hopkins has a look of disbelief on his face, but that's to be expected. CompuBox had Calzaghe landing more punches against Hopkins than any opponent in his illustrious career. It also had Joe throwing more, landing more and connecting at a higher percentage. Take that for what you will.
Calzaghe says he was not really hurt by the first-round knockdown. He gives due credit to Hopkins for how tough a fight it was, and he admits he was wary of B-Hop's right hand. Joe doesn't think he was hurt at any time in the fight, and he makes a wry comment about the supposed low blow that had Hopkins complaining in the 10th round. He also says he doesn't know who he'll fight next, but does hint at Roy Jones. Steward would like to see that one.
Kellerman does get Hopkins to speak, and he says he was pacing himself in the middle rounds. He says all the fans except the Brits know he won the fight by picking up enough rounds. B-Hop says he was never hurt but did daze his foe several times. He says the fans are the real judges and know he won the fight. They watch the replay of the low blow together and Hopkins keeps pleading his case. Will this be it for him? The Executioner says he'll talk to his Golden Boy partners and let this fight marinate in the minds of the fans.
Some Boxing Thoughts
Roy Jones was on Friday Night Fights.
He says he still wants to fight Anderson Silva, the MMA fighter, in a straight boxing match, but the UFC President, Dana White, will not allow it. That would be an interesting event. HBO and Spike could Countdown the heck out of that story line.
Chris Byrd was on too and is ridiculously skinny. He looks like a totally different person. He says he can make 168! Here's to hoping Byrd has a serious run at one of the lighter than heavy divisions.
Kevin Johnson won in the main event. To say that he is ultra-confident is an understatement.
O'Neill Bell suprisingly retired during his fight with Tomasz Adamek, which Uatu caught live on ESPN Classic. Completely one-sided affair.
He says he still wants to fight Anderson Silva, the MMA fighter, in a straight boxing match, but the UFC President, Dana White, will not allow it. That would be an interesting event. HBO and Spike could Countdown the heck out of that story line.
Chris Byrd was on too and is ridiculously skinny. He looks like a totally different person. He says he can make 168! Here's to hoping Byrd has a serious run at one of the lighter than heavy divisions.
Kevin Johnson won in the main event. To say that he is ultra-confident is an understatement.
O'Neill Bell suprisingly retired during his fight with Tomasz Adamek, which Uatu caught live on ESPN Classic. Completely one-sided affair.
Live Round By Round Coverage of Hopkins-Calzaghe Tonight
Well we really couldn't call ourselves BoxingWatchers.com and not cover a fight billed as the "Battle of the Planet," could we? As always, if you can't make it to a TV that carries HBO tonight, bookmark us here for live round by round updates as Bernard Hopkins and Joe Calzaghe square off in Las Vegas.
Predictions: Hopkins vs. Calzaghe
The Franchise says...
This is the kind of fight that boxing fans always hope for but seems to come together so rarely. It features two fighters who are at the very top of the sport, each with something different to prove.
Smart money would seem to favor the younger fighter, and a big majority of fans who voted in our BoxingWatchers.com poll like Joe Calzaghe to come away with the win - though he's no spring chicken himself, and he's not accustomed to fighting in the United States. Add in the fact that Bernard Hopkins has made a career of foiling both Father Time and his opponents and you've got all the ingredients for a toss-up.
Unlike many other bouts between big name fighters, this one seems like a good combination of styles as well, with Calzaghe applying constant pressure and Hopkins looking to use his superb defensive and counter-punching skills. But both men are capable of playing the other side as well, as Calzaghe showed an improved jab and patience in his decision victory over Mikkel Kessler last November, and Hopkins proved he still has an aggressive streak in his last two wins against Antonio Tarver and Winky Wright.
Still, it makes sense that both men will go with what comes most naturally to them, meaning Calzaghe should be the busier and more successful fighter in the early rounds. Look for The Executioner to eventually figure out how to exploit any weaknesses he senses and turn it on as the fight goes deeper.
That means the biggest questions will be whether or not Calzaghe can build enough of an early lead and whether he has the heart to pull out what should be an exciting and close bout. It's a tough call but I think the Pride of Wales will answer both of those questions affirmatively, and that B-Hop will finally bite off more than he can chew. I'm calling for Calzaghe to win a close, possibly split decision.
Uatu says...
Hopkins to win a close, possibly split decision.
Uatu likes Hopkins ability to shut down the other fighter's game plan. Consider this- Hopkins still has not lost convincingly since the mid 90's. In the recent fights that includes Tarver, Wright, and Taylor, which is better than Kessler, Lacy, and somebody else.
This is the kind of fight that boxing fans always hope for but seems to come together so rarely. It features two fighters who are at the very top of the sport, each with something different to prove.
Smart money would seem to favor the younger fighter, and a big majority of fans who voted in our BoxingWatchers.com poll like Joe Calzaghe to come away with the win - though he's no spring chicken himself, and he's not accustomed to fighting in the United States. Add in the fact that Bernard Hopkins has made a career of foiling both Father Time and his opponents and you've got all the ingredients for a toss-up.
Unlike many other bouts between big name fighters, this one seems like a good combination of styles as well, with Calzaghe applying constant pressure and Hopkins looking to use his superb defensive and counter-punching skills. But both men are capable of playing the other side as well, as Calzaghe showed an improved jab and patience in his decision victory over Mikkel Kessler last November, and Hopkins proved he still has an aggressive streak in his last two wins against Antonio Tarver and Winky Wright.
Still, it makes sense that both men will go with what comes most naturally to them, meaning Calzaghe should be the busier and more successful fighter in the early rounds. Look for The Executioner to eventually figure out how to exploit any weaknesses he senses and turn it on as the fight goes deeper.
That means the biggest questions will be whether or not Calzaghe can build enough of an early lead and whether he has the heart to pull out what should be an exciting and close bout. It's a tough call but I think the Pride of Wales will answer both of those questions affirmatively, and that B-Hop will finally bite off more than he can chew. I'm calling for Calzaghe to win a close, possibly split decision.
Uatu says...
Hopkins to win a close, possibly split decision.
Uatu likes Hopkins ability to shut down the other fighter's game plan. Consider this- Hopkins still has not lost convincingly since the mid 90's. In the recent fights that includes Tarver, Wright, and Taylor, which is better than Kessler, Lacy, and somebody else.
18.4.08
Hopkins vs. Calzaghe Weigh-In
Checking out the weigh-in over at hbo.com.
Buffer healthy and back at it again sounding great.
Michael J. Fox and Sly Stallone in the house.
They are wasting no time.
JoeCal -173.
Bernard in the omni-present Affliction shirt.
Marco Antonio Barerra must have everything smoothed out with Golden Boy as he is behind Bernard for support.
173 for Hopkins too.
Looks like Enzo Mac is on stage too.
forehead to forehead posturing.
Huge grin from JoeCal.
Joe is all smiles. Bernard doing some pointing. Frank Warren and Schaeffer attempting to separate.
And off they go. The whole spectacle was less than five minutes.
Not the most exciting weigh-in, but still, they never fail to build excitement. Weigh-ins are a nice little touch that makes boxing so great, the fact that the two combatants have to meet face-to-face publicly the day before a fight.
Roy Jones in the house too. He goes on stage and shakes MAB's hand.
Shelley Finkel on stage shaking MAB's hand.
That's all, that's it.
Buffer healthy and back at it again sounding great.
Michael J. Fox and Sly Stallone in the house.
They are wasting no time.
JoeCal -173.
Bernard in the omni-present Affliction shirt.
Marco Antonio Barerra must have everything smoothed out with Golden Boy as he is behind Bernard for support.
173 for Hopkins too.
Looks like Enzo Mac is on stage too.
forehead to forehead posturing.
Huge grin from JoeCal.
Joe is all smiles. Bernard doing some pointing. Frank Warren and Schaeffer attempting to separate.
And off they go. The whole spectacle was less than five minutes.
Not the most exciting weigh-in, but still, they never fail to build excitement. Weigh-ins are a nice little touch that makes boxing so great, the fact that the two combatants have to meet face-to-face publicly the day before a fight.
Roy Jones in the house too. He goes on stage and shakes MAB's hand.
Shelley Finkel on stage shaking MAB's hand.
That's all, that's it.
Bernard Hopkins Correspondent for Jim Rome is Burning on ESPN
Bernard is acting as guest correspondent for Jim Rome today in order to create more interest for his big fight against Joe "Calzog" - (running joke from earlier post).
Jim describes him as reigning Ring Light Heavyweight Champ. So I guess Rome buys into the Ring too?
Some words from Nazim Richardson first. The ususal about Bernard always being on weight.
Freddie Roach describing B Hop as a true pro and super focused. Bernard knocks the wind out of Roach sometimes as Bernard is still very strong.
Lots of good training footage in LA.
Bernard says he is blessed to have three teachers at this point in his career.
The segment was very short. Seriously two minutes. Pretty much a super short version of Countdown minus any footage of "Calzog".
Still, as always, any boxing coverage on the major outlets is always a good thing.
Jim describes him as reigning Ring Light Heavyweight Champ. So I guess Rome buys into the Ring too?
Some words from Nazim Richardson first. The ususal about Bernard always being on weight.
Freddie Roach describing B Hop as a true pro and super focused. Bernard knocks the wind out of Roach sometimes as Bernard is still very strong.
Lots of good training footage in LA.
Bernard says he is blessed to have three teachers at this point in his career.
The segment was very short. Seriously two minutes. Pretty much a super short version of Countdown minus any footage of "Calzog".
Still, as always, any boxing coverage on the major outlets is always a good thing.
17.4.08
Joe Calzaghe Not Quite a U.S. Household Name Yet
Just a little factoid for you to let you know that JoeCal isn't quite that famous in the U.S. yet.
During the radio spots advertising the Hopkins-Calzaghe fight here on the local sports talk radio station, they refer to JoeCal as "Calzog," rhyming with log. On TV he has always been called "Calzogee." If it is indeed "Calzogee," then it's kind of pathetic that the radio ads for the fight can't even get half of the main event's names pronounced correctly.
During the radio spots advertising the Hopkins-Calzaghe fight here on the local sports talk radio station, they refer to JoeCal as "Calzog," rhyming with log. On TV he has always been called "Calzogee." If it is indeed "Calzogee," then it's kind of pathetic that the radio ads for the fight can't even get half of the main event's names pronounced correctly.
14.4.08
Some Quick Thoughts on Countdown to Hopkins - Calzaghe
Believe it or not Uatu has already watched the countdown show three times. This edition was much better than the one for Taylor - Pavlik or Pacquiao - Marquez.
Especially interesting was watching Hopkins go through Mackie Shilstone's tests.
Here's an interesting question for everyone.
How come people say Mayweather and Oscar can basically train themselves at this point and their current trainer of choice is not important, yet, Hopkins has not one, not two, but THREE trainers! Hopkins is supposedly a master boxer, and he still feels it essential to have input from trainers. Good for Hopkins. This is a man who is still humble enough to value others' opinions and still dedicated enough to leave no stone unturned. Very impressive character.
Especially interesting was watching Hopkins go through Mackie Shilstone's tests.
Here's an interesting question for everyone.
How come people say Mayweather and Oscar can basically train themselves at this point and their current trainer of choice is not important, yet, Hopkins has not one, not two, but THREE trainers! Hopkins is supposedly a master boxer, and he still feels it essential to have input from trainers. Good for Hopkins. This is a man who is still humble enough to value others' opinions and still dedicated enough to leave no stone unturned. Very impressive character.
13.4.08
First Thoughts on Cotto vs. Margarito
Of course Gomez is no Margarito, but Cotto continues to impress. Every fight he wins Uatu over a little more. He is creeping up to "best boxer on the planet" status. A fight in July is not that far away. There won't be any time for Cotto to get drastically out of shape or to be distracted. Margarito is a serious challenge for anyone. He may very well be the second best welterweight out there. But not the best. Cotto has more dimensions, is just as rugged, and probably is quicker and hits harder.
Cotto will stay undefeated.
Cotto will stay undefeated.
12.4.08
Round by Round: Cotto v. Gomez
The second fight tonight is the welterweight match up is Cotto v. Gomez. Both fighters are 27 years old. Gomez is coming off of his knockout victory against Arturo Gatti. Cotto's last bought was against Shane Mosley where Cotto won by decision. Gomez is 18-3 with 8 KO's. Cotto is 31-0 with 25 KO's.
The crowd is definitely pro Cotto.
They start a Cotto chant and its time to fight.
Rd 1: Cotto starts out as the aggressor and throws fast hard shots upstairs. Gomez comes back and shows his punching speed. Most of the punches are blocked by both fighters. Cotto lands 2 hard body shots to Gomez against the ropes. Gomez's face starts to show red from punches landing by Cotto. Cotto looks to be on his game tonight. Cotto is beating Gomez to the punch in the first round. Gomez lands a good counter punch and backs Cotto off.
Spartan: 10-9 Cotto
Uatu: 10-9 Cotto
Rd 2: Gomez comes out throwing his jab. Cotto backs up Gomez with almost every punch that lands. Cotto's punches are hard and landing flush. In the words of Jim Lamply, "Cotto is treating this fight like a sparring session." Cotto lands a hard body shot and Gomez looses his balance and goes down. He makes it up well before the count. The knockdown was almost a slip but was caused by a punch. Great round for Cotto.
Spartan: 10-8 Cotto
Uatu: 10-8 Cotto
Rd 3: Cotto starts to come in more confidently. Cotto switched to southpaw earlier but no goes back to orthodox. Cotto now lands hard uppercuts. Gomez shouldn't be able to take more punches like these. Cotto now switches momentarily back to southpaw but switches back. Gomez goes down in the last 3 seconds of the round by a very hard body shot. He looks hurt but makes it up for the break.
Spartan: 10-8 Cotto
Uatu: 10-8 Cotto
Rd 4: Gomez comes out in this round strong, but Cotto continues to back him up. Cotto has complete control over this fight. Gomez's face is red and swollen. Cotto lands at will now. Gomez's trainer should throw in the towel at this point. Gomez finishes the round on wobbly legs.
Spartan: 10-8 Cotto
Uatu: 10-9 Cotto
Rd 5: Cotto again comes out hard. Gomez goes down after a swift punch in the second minute but makes it up again. He goes back in and takes hard punishment again. Cotto looks very comfortable and goes back to work.
Spartan: 10-8 Cotto
Uatu: 10-9 Cotto
The ref finally stops the fight after the 5th round in the corner.
Cotto wins by TKO
Cotto says if Mayweather wants to fight him, he will fight him.
The crowd is definitely pro Cotto.
They start a Cotto chant and its time to fight.
Rd 1: Cotto starts out as the aggressor and throws fast hard shots upstairs. Gomez comes back and shows his punching speed. Most of the punches are blocked by both fighters. Cotto lands 2 hard body shots to Gomez against the ropes. Gomez's face starts to show red from punches landing by Cotto. Cotto looks to be on his game tonight. Cotto is beating Gomez to the punch in the first round. Gomez lands a good counter punch and backs Cotto off.
Spartan: 10-9 Cotto
Uatu: 10-9 Cotto
Rd 2: Gomez comes out throwing his jab. Cotto backs up Gomez with almost every punch that lands. Cotto's punches are hard and landing flush. In the words of Jim Lamply, "Cotto is treating this fight like a sparring session." Cotto lands a hard body shot and Gomez looses his balance and goes down. He makes it up well before the count. The knockdown was almost a slip but was caused by a punch. Great round for Cotto.
Spartan: 10-8 Cotto
Uatu: 10-8 Cotto
Rd 3: Cotto starts to come in more confidently. Cotto switched to southpaw earlier but no goes back to orthodox. Cotto now lands hard uppercuts. Gomez shouldn't be able to take more punches like these. Cotto now switches momentarily back to southpaw but switches back. Gomez goes down in the last 3 seconds of the round by a very hard body shot. He looks hurt but makes it up for the break.
Spartan: 10-8 Cotto
Uatu: 10-8 Cotto
Rd 4: Gomez comes out in this round strong, but Cotto continues to back him up. Cotto has complete control over this fight. Gomez's face is red and swollen. Cotto lands at will now. Gomez's trainer should throw in the towel at this point. Gomez finishes the round on wobbly legs.
Spartan: 10-8 Cotto
Uatu: 10-9 Cotto
Rd 5: Cotto again comes out hard. Gomez goes down after a swift punch in the second minute but makes it up again. He goes back in and takes hard punishment again. Cotto looks very comfortable and goes back to work.
Spartan: 10-8 Cotto
Uatu: 10-9 Cotto
The ref finally stops the fight after the 5th round in the corner.
Cotto wins by TKO
Cotto says if Mayweather wants to fight him, he will fight him.
Round By Round: Clinton Woods vs. Antonio Tarver
We're almost set for the second half of the light heavyweight twin bill on Showtime, as Clinton Woods makes his way to the ring. He did a refreshingly honest interview earlier when he said he never expected to make it this far in the sport.
Antonio Tarver gets to enter second even though he is the IBO champion, which is to say not really a champion at all. His hometown crowd is definitely showing him some love. The announcers wonder whether any of his psychological games have had any effect on Woods. Clinton has slight advantages in youth, reach and weight.
Round 1
A cautious opening with Tarver jabbing and Woods trying to jump in. Woods throws to the body and AT dances back. Straight left by Tarver. Woods comes in to the body, then lands a nice shot upstairs. Tarver lands an uppercut, then another. Good left by Tarver; Woods tries to respond but hits mostly air.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 2
Now Woods looking to jab more. Tarver throws a combo but gets backed into the ropes by Woods. Left downstairs by AT. Woods managing to come forward more but his work rate isn't what I expected. Tarver goes to the body and back to the head; Woods looking for body shots as well. Woods walks through some fire and lands a nice right, he also switches to southpaw for a bit. Tarver finishes strong with an uppercut along the ropes.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 3
Woods starting a little faster in this round. Tarver still finding the left. AT goes to the body as Woods throws back to the head. Woods just misses a big counter shot. Tarver hitting then clinching if his foe gets in too close. Now a counter shot gets Tarver's attention. Body work by Woods and Tarver is off balance trying to respond. That was Woods' best round so far but still probably not good enough to get the nod.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 4
Nice uppercut by Tarver is the first good punch to land. The jab is there for Woods but he needs to throw it more. Right hand in the corner by Woods but Tarver escapes. Straight left by Tarver. Nice combo by Tarver stuns Woods a bit. Lots of wrestling along the ropes. The crowd boos a bit because the round dragged a little in the second half.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 5
Tarver still throwing combos in spurts while Woods is reduced to throwing one shot, though he's getting in closer this round. AT isn't fighting a pretty fight but he has been effective. Woods comes forward behind body shots from both hands. Woods gets caught with a left coming in. The hand speed difference is noticeable, especially in this round.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 6
Woods finally manages to corner Tarver for a second but he still needs to let his hands go. He gets whacked with a left coming off the ropes. More Tarver lefts find the mark. Woods is bleeding from the nose now. AT goes back to the jab and follows with lefts. Nothing of real consequence in the last minute of the round.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 7
Interesting that a press row judge has given two rounds to Woods; I'm not seeing that. Tarver is finding a pretty easy target if Woods stands still. Woods fires back to the body. His right to the body has been about all he's been able to do. Tarver dances around and makes this round look easy.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 8
Woods' best chance to get back in it is to look for one big punch. Finally he throws a combo. Tarver goes to the body then back upstairs. Woods lands a counter and he needs more of that. Left uppercut scores by Tarver. The crowd is booing again; perhaps they were spoiled by that great first fight. More body punches by Woods. This was his best round but still not good enough to take it.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 9
Now Woods is showing a bit more urgency, but it may be too late. He digs to the body and tries to press his advantage along the ropes. Big combo by Tarver as he lands multiple shots upstairs. Body work by Woods is answered upstairs by Tarver. Sharp combo by Tarver to the head. He's jabbing as Woods comes forward again. That was the first close round of the fight in my opinion.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Woods
Round 10
Tarver fighting right-handed this round. Woods jabs in as Tarver covers up. Nice quick shots upstairs by AT. Woods lands a left as Tarver backs up. Woods gets inside but can't quite figure out how to land an uppercut. Nice right and a left by Tarver. Woods lands a few shots along the ropes. Body work by Tarver. Good left by Tarver as he comes in. Woods comes forward at the bell but gets popped in the face for his trouble.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 11
I think Woods needs a KO to win but press row has it closer than I do. Nice right by Woods snaps Tarver's head back. Woods jabs in and tries combos. Stiff left gets Woods' attention. Big left by Tarver but Woods says he's not hurt. We'll see. Woods shows some heart and turns much more aggressive. He's swinging away but not connecting with everything. That was a close round but Woods was fortunate not to go down from that big left.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Woods
Round 12
Tarver lands an early left as the crowd roars. Another big left along the ropes. Now another in the center of the ring. Tarver definitely closing the show now. Woods trying to act like he's not hurt but he's really not doing much here. One minute to go. Straight left lands clean for Tarver. Woods is game all the way until the end, but if this fight is close on the cards I'd be shocked.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Franchise scores it 118-110 for Tarver. The judges score it 116-112, 117-111 and 119-109, all for the winner and new IBF light heavyweight champion, Antonio "Magic Man" Tarver.
Antonio Tarver gets to enter second even though he is the IBO champion, which is to say not really a champion at all. His hometown crowd is definitely showing him some love. The announcers wonder whether any of his psychological games have had any effect on Woods. Clinton has slight advantages in youth, reach and weight.
Round 1
A cautious opening with Tarver jabbing and Woods trying to jump in. Woods throws to the body and AT dances back. Straight left by Tarver. Woods comes in to the body, then lands a nice shot upstairs. Tarver lands an uppercut, then another. Good left by Tarver; Woods tries to respond but hits mostly air.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 2
Now Woods looking to jab more. Tarver throws a combo but gets backed into the ropes by Woods. Left downstairs by AT. Woods managing to come forward more but his work rate isn't what I expected. Tarver goes to the body and back to the head; Woods looking for body shots as well. Woods walks through some fire and lands a nice right, he also switches to southpaw for a bit. Tarver finishes strong with an uppercut along the ropes.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 3
Woods starting a little faster in this round. Tarver still finding the left. AT goes to the body as Woods throws back to the head. Woods just misses a big counter shot. Tarver hitting then clinching if his foe gets in too close. Now a counter shot gets Tarver's attention. Body work by Woods and Tarver is off balance trying to respond. That was Woods' best round so far but still probably not good enough to get the nod.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 4
Nice uppercut by Tarver is the first good punch to land. The jab is there for Woods but he needs to throw it more. Right hand in the corner by Woods but Tarver escapes. Straight left by Tarver. Nice combo by Tarver stuns Woods a bit. Lots of wrestling along the ropes. The crowd boos a bit because the round dragged a little in the second half.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 5
Tarver still throwing combos in spurts while Woods is reduced to throwing one shot, though he's getting in closer this round. AT isn't fighting a pretty fight but he has been effective. Woods comes forward behind body shots from both hands. Woods gets caught with a left coming in. The hand speed difference is noticeable, especially in this round.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 6
Woods finally manages to corner Tarver for a second but he still needs to let his hands go. He gets whacked with a left coming off the ropes. More Tarver lefts find the mark. Woods is bleeding from the nose now. AT goes back to the jab and follows with lefts. Nothing of real consequence in the last minute of the round.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 7
Interesting that a press row judge has given two rounds to Woods; I'm not seeing that. Tarver is finding a pretty easy target if Woods stands still. Woods fires back to the body. His right to the body has been about all he's been able to do. Tarver dances around and makes this round look easy.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 8
Woods' best chance to get back in it is to look for one big punch. Finally he throws a combo. Tarver goes to the body then back upstairs. Woods lands a counter and he needs more of that. Left uppercut scores by Tarver. The crowd is booing again; perhaps they were spoiled by that great first fight. More body punches by Woods. This was his best round but still not good enough to take it.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 9
Now Woods is showing a bit more urgency, but it may be too late. He digs to the body and tries to press his advantage along the ropes. Big combo by Tarver as he lands multiple shots upstairs. Body work by Woods is answered upstairs by Tarver. Sharp combo by Tarver to the head. He's jabbing as Woods comes forward again. That was the first close round of the fight in my opinion.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Woods
Round 10
Tarver fighting right-handed this round. Woods jabs in as Tarver covers up. Nice quick shots upstairs by AT. Woods lands a left as Tarver backs up. Woods gets inside but can't quite figure out how to land an uppercut. Nice right and a left by Tarver. Woods lands a few shots along the ropes. Body work by Tarver. Good left by Tarver as he comes in. Woods comes forward at the bell but gets popped in the face for his trouble.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Round 11
I think Woods needs a KO to win but press row has it closer than I do. Nice right by Woods snaps Tarver's head back. Woods jabs in and tries combos. Stiff left gets Woods' attention. Big left by Tarver but Woods says he's not hurt. We'll see. Woods shows some heart and turns much more aggressive. He's swinging away but not connecting with everything. That was a close round but Woods was fortunate not to go down from that big left.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Woods
Round 12
Tarver lands an early left as the crowd roars. Another big left along the ropes. Now another in the center of the ring. Tarver definitely closing the show now. Woods trying to act like he's not hurt but he's really not doing much here. One minute to go. Straight left lands clean for Tarver. Woods is game all the way until the end, but if this fight is close on the cards I'd be shocked.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Tarver
Franchise scores it 118-110 for Tarver. The judges score it 116-112, 117-111 and 119-109, all for the winner and new IBF light heavyweight champion, Antonio "Magic Man" Tarver.
Round by Round: Cintron v. Margarito 2
Part 1 of tonight's Welterweight double header is between Kermit Cintron v. Antonio Margarito. This fight is the second chapter between these two fighters. These fighters are relatively young in boxing terms. Cintron is 28 and Margarito is 30. Margarito is 35-5 with 25 KO's. Cintron is 29-1 with 27 KO's. In their last bout, Margarito was victorious being the only person ever to beat Cintron. It should be a great fight.
During their first fight Cintron was a much younger fighter. After a cut opened on Cintron's eyelid early in the fight, he folded and took punishment throughout the remainder of the rounds. Many believe he will be better prepared for tonight.
The crowd sounds pro Cintron. They have made their way to the ring and it is time to fight.
Rd 1: Cintron comes out with a hard right hook. Both fighters start off pretty aggressive. Margarito lands a hard right and Cintron answers back with a hard uppercut. Neither fighter looks phased. Margarito lands another hard right hand. Margarito turns up the punching output. Margarito establishes his jab to set up other punches. Cintron lands 4 hard punches upstairs with a combination.
Spartan: 10-9 Margarito
Uatu: 10-9 Margarito
Rd 2: Cintron starts swinging early and chooses he punches. Margarito blocks a few but many land. Now Margarito backs Cintron into the ropes and lands 4 hard shots. Cintron looks a bit wobbly. Cintron's defense looks ineffective. Now both fighters trade hard uppercuts. Margarito goes to work at the body. Margarito lands a combo at the bell.
Spartan: 10-9 Margarito
Uatu: 10-9 Margarito
Rd 3: A slight cut opens over the eye of Margarito. Cintron comes out throwing more in round 3. Margarito answers back with a combo upstairs. Cintron lands a hard right hook. Cintron throwing many uppercuts throughout the fight and many of them land. It looks like this fight may be decided by who has the better chin. They are fighting toe to toe in the middle of the ring, both fighters taking a lot of punishment. The ref warns Margarito about a punch to the back of the head. Cintron turns to complain to the ref and Margarito takes advantage with a vicious right hand.
Spartan: 10-9 Margarito
Uatu: 10-9 Margarito
Rd 4: Both fighters keep up the intensity early in this round. Cintron gets backed into the ropes and pays for it, but fights out. Margarito is doing a good job getting through Cintron's defense. Cintron gets clocked with another hard right. Margarito landing more flush punches. Cintron continues to bend at the waist and sometimes gets caught with his back to Margarito.
Spartan: 10-9 Margarito
Uatu: 10-9 Margarito
Rd 5: Cintron now tries to get the jab working. Margarito's defense looks strong. Contron takes more punches. His footwork looks like it could use work. Both fighters now exchanging very hard punches to the head. Cintron keeps taking lots of hooks upstairs I don't know how he is staying up. The Ref stops the action to warn again for punches to the back of the head. Now a cut opens over Cintron's eye. Cintron gets back on his game but Margarito comes right back and lands punches at will upstairs. Easily Margarito's round.
Spartan: 10-9 Margarito
Uatu: 10-9 Margarito
Rd 6: According to compubox Margarito has landed more punches than Cintron has thrown. Cintron comes out with the jab again. Cintron's cut is now flowing. Cintron continues to look towards the ref after getting hit with clean shots. Cintron finally goes down after getting tagged hard against the ropes with a vicious left body shot. He can't get up. It's over. Another fight ended by a hard liver shot.
Margarito in the 6th round by knock out.
Margarito is the new champ.
During their first fight Cintron was a much younger fighter. After a cut opened on Cintron's eyelid early in the fight, he folded and took punishment throughout the remainder of the rounds. Many believe he will be better prepared for tonight.
The crowd sounds pro Cintron. They have made their way to the ring and it is time to fight.
Rd 1: Cintron comes out with a hard right hook. Both fighters start off pretty aggressive. Margarito lands a hard right and Cintron answers back with a hard uppercut. Neither fighter looks phased. Margarito lands another hard right hand. Margarito turns up the punching output. Margarito establishes his jab to set up other punches. Cintron lands 4 hard punches upstairs with a combination.
Spartan: 10-9 Margarito
Uatu: 10-9 Margarito
Rd 2: Cintron starts swinging early and chooses he punches. Margarito blocks a few but many land. Now Margarito backs Cintron into the ropes and lands 4 hard shots. Cintron looks a bit wobbly. Cintron's defense looks ineffective. Now both fighters trade hard uppercuts. Margarito goes to work at the body. Margarito lands a combo at the bell.
Spartan: 10-9 Margarito
Uatu: 10-9 Margarito
Rd 3: A slight cut opens over the eye of Margarito. Cintron comes out throwing more in round 3. Margarito answers back with a combo upstairs. Cintron lands a hard right hook. Cintron throwing many uppercuts throughout the fight and many of them land. It looks like this fight may be decided by who has the better chin. They are fighting toe to toe in the middle of the ring, both fighters taking a lot of punishment. The ref warns Margarito about a punch to the back of the head. Cintron turns to complain to the ref and Margarito takes advantage with a vicious right hand.
Spartan: 10-9 Margarito
Uatu: 10-9 Margarito
Rd 4: Both fighters keep up the intensity early in this round. Cintron gets backed into the ropes and pays for it, but fights out. Margarito is doing a good job getting through Cintron's defense. Cintron gets clocked with another hard right. Margarito landing more flush punches. Cintron continues to bend at the waist and sometimes gets caught with his back to Margarito.
Spartan: 10-9 Margarito
Uatu: 10-9 Margarito
Rd 5: Cintron now tries to get the jab working. Margarito's defense looks strong. Contron takes more punches. His footwork looks like it could use work. Both fighters now exchanging very hard punches to the head. Cintron keeps taking lots of hooks upstairs I don't know how he is staying up. The Ref stops the action to warn again for punches to the back of the head. Now a cut opens over Cintron's eye. Cintron gets back on his game but Margarito comes right back and lands punches at will upstairs. Easily Margarito's round.
Spartan: 10-9 Margarito
Uatu: 10-9 Margarito
Rd 6: According to compubox Margarito has landed more punches than Cintron has thrown. Cintron comes out with the jab again. Cintron's cut is now flowing. Cintron continues to look towards the ref after getting hit with clean shots. Cintron finally goes down after getting tagged hard against the ropes with a vicious left body shot. He can't get up. It's over. Another fight ended by a hard liver shot.
Margarito in the 6th round by knock out.
Margarito is the new champ.
Round By Round: Chad Dawson vs. Glen Johnson
We're waiting for the first of two light heavyweight fights to start tonight on Showtime. I was talking to the rest of the BoxingWatchers.com staff a little while ago and we were wondering which fight would be first. Looks like it will be Chad Dawson and Glen Johnson.
The announcers think Johnson looks good for 39, and discuss how he probably should have a few less losses because of questionable decisions. Dawson comes to the ring to Lupe Fiasco's "Superstar" and he looks confident.
It will be interesting to see if the crowd is behind Johnson, since he has lived in Florida for a while.
Round 1
Dawson opens with some jabs and Johnson comes forward as expected. Chad looks light on his feet and his hands look fast. He finds the range with a few straight lefts. Johnson lands a few counters as he tries to come in. Dawson also looking to the body. Nice combo to the body and head by Dawson. Now a nice right by Johnson. They trade right before the bell but Dawson landed more punches.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Dawson
Round 2
Dawson lands some quick shots but Johnson is on top of him and lands a few rights. The announcers think Chad is staying inside too much. Nice right-left combo by Chad. Johnson is able to pick off some shots to the head with his arms. Two nice lefts upstairs by Dawson. Johnson comes in behind a right and a left hook; Dawson stands his ground and returns fire. Johnson hit by a number of quick shots right as the round ends.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Dawson
Round 3
Johnson starting to make the jab work a bit though he's getting hit in the body setting it up. Dawson doing a bit better circling instead of going straight back. Johnson lands a few rights; Dawson beginning to find a target with the uppercut. Quick left by Chad and Glen scores with a counter riht. Now a flurry by Johnson and Dawson stands and returns fire. Another great exchange before the bell with Johnson landing a few big right hands. The crowd applauds that action.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Johnson
Round 4
The announcers think Dawson may have been hurt at the end of Round 3. He's throwing but his punches don't seem to be fazing Johnson. Nice right to the body by Glen. Dawson can't stay inside because Johnson is too effective in there. Straight lefts by Dawson and a right to the body. Big punches both ways. Right lands upstairs for Johnson. Now another gets through. Johnson slips at the bell and Dawson tries to jump on him. That was the closest round so far.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Dawson
Round 5
Johnson jabbing away and staying covered up. He lands a left and Chad responds with a combo. Inside rights by Johnson and he eats some coming back. Big right knocks Dawson backwards. Both men land to the body. Some vicious shots thrown by Johnson and they take some of the starch out of Chad. Now a left hook and a right upstairs. Johnson took control from the middle of the round onward.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Johnson
Round 6
I have to imagine Dawson is losing on the cards and Johnson hits harder, which is a tough combo to beat. Johnson finds the range with both hands inside. Now Dawson goes back to circling. Both guys throw lefts in the middle of the ring. Dawson digs to the body as Glen continues to stalk. The crowd boos because Dawson is retreating. He's picking his spots much better in this round. Johnson tries to steal the round at the end but I think Dawson fought that round very well.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Dawson
Round 7
Both boxers are getting very good advice from their corners. Dawson comes out moving and jabbing. Johnson goes to the body. Chad unleashes a combo but it was more sizzle than steak. Right by Johnson but Dawson's right in response is even bigger. That was the first time Glen's looked stunned so far tonight. Dawson looks like he's regained some confidence. Quick combo to the head by Chad. Johnson still coming forward but not throwing as many punches, and his jab has gone away. Both men trade with Johnson landing the biggest punch and Dawson landing quantity.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Dawson
Round 8
Dawson showing very good movement but Johnson looks more determined this round. His volume has definitely picked back up. Dawson tries a few lefts. Chad slips a right and goes back to his jab. He lands a few shots to the head in succession. Another quick combo that at least looks good. Body and head combo and Johnson lands a straight right in response. Right uppercut by Dawson. A nice exchange both ways. Johnson gets inside but Dawson throws back at the bell. Close round.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Dawson
Round 9
Johnson's corner told him he needs every round. He comes out like he thinks that's true. Nice right upstairs by Johnson and another. Dawson throws a combo and Johnson is caught off balance. Glen gets back inside and Chad dances away. Both guys find the range in the center of the ring. Nice straight left by Dawson. Right to the body by Johnson. Dawson goes upstairs as the round ends, and that was another close one.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Dawson
Round 10
Dawson's corner screaming at him to box and not get trapped inside. He lands early and circles away from Johnson. Chad works the head and body but the punches aren't that hard. Johnson goes to the body with a right. Nice left by Johnson but it's in the middle of a Dawson flurry. Big right by Johnson staggers Dawson and he's hurt! He's trying to close the show but Dawson is showing some heart. Wow, the action goes all the way to the bell and Dawson hangs in there.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Johnson
Round 11
We're going to learn something about Dawson now. He looks steady early on and is throwing with both hands. Johnson gets inside and lands some rights. Dawson soldiers on but he might be hurt again. Uppercut by Glen with Chad leaning on him. Now Dawson finding the range. Incredible action as both men are throwing bombs inside. Left hook by Johnson and he goes to the body. Dawson shows some late zip but Johnson lands a right to knock Dawson back. That was a fantastic round and very even.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Johnson
Round 12
Last round and it seriously could go either way. Dawson still has spring in his step early on. He's trying to keep it outside but Johnson pushes forward. Now Johnson finds the body and head. Big right and left by Glen. Dawson lands a mean uppercut in response. Johnson definitely showing no quit. Johnson with chopping rights in close as we hit 30 seconds to go. The crowd boos because Chad is backing away. Johnson paws to try to land a few more shots; Dawson seems content to play out the string. That was a great fight.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Johnson
Franchise scores it 115-113 for Dawson. The judges score it 116-112, 116-112 and 116-112, all for the winner and still WBC light heavyweight champion, "Bad" Chad Dawson.
That's an unpopular decision but not a robbery by any means. Dawson fought a very smart fight and got great advice from his corner. Johnson did what everyone thought he would do, and in retrospect he probably needed that knockdown in the 10th round.
Johnson thinks he got ripped off and isn't happy because he says Dawson has the whole future ahead of him and he is nearing the end of his road. He says he'll definitely take a rematch but he thinks he should be getting it as the winner, not the loser. Dawson seems kind of amused by his foe's outburst.
Dawson says he'll stay at light heavyweight and doesn't seem as thrilled about a rematch as Johnson. He gives credit to Glen but he really seems to think he did enough to win.
The announcers think Johnson looks good for 39, and discuss how he probably should have a few less losses because of questionable decisions. Dawson comes to the ring to Lupe Fiasco's "Superstar" and he looks confident.
It will be interesting to see if the crowd is behind Johnson, since he has lived in Florida for a while.
Round 1
Dawson opens with some jabs and Johnson comes forward as expected. Chad looks light on his feet and his hands look fast. He finds the range with a few straight lefts. Johnson lands a few counters as he tries to come in. Dawson also looking to the body. Nice combo to the body and head by Dawson. Now a nice right by Johnson. They trade right before the bell but Dawson landed more punches.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Dawson
Round 2
Dawson lands some quick shots but Johnson is on top of him and lands a few rights. The announcers think Chad is staying inside too much. Nice right-left combo by Chad. Johnson is able to pick off some shots to the head with his arms. Two nice lefts upstairs by Dawson. Johnson comes in behind a right and a left hook; Dawson stands his ground and returns fire. Johnson hit by a number of quick shots right as the round ends.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Dawson
Round 3
Johnson starting to make the jab work a bit though he's getting hit in the body setting it up. Dawson doing a bit better circling instead of going straight back. Johnson lands a few rights; Dawson beginning to find a target with the uppercut. Quick left by Chad and Glen scores with a counter riht. Now a flurry by Johnson and Dawson stands and returns fire. Another great exchange before the bell with Johnson landing a few big right hands. The crowd applauds that action.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Johnson
Round 4
The announcers think Dawson may have been hurt at the end of Round 3. He's throwing but his punches don't seem to be fazing Johnson. Nice right to the body by Glen. Dawson can't stay inside because Johnson is too effective in there. Straight lefts by Dawson and a right to the body. Big punches both ways. Right lands upstairs for Johnson. Now another gets through. Johnson slips at the bell and Dawson tries to jump on him. That was the closest round so far.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Dawson
Round 5
Johnson jabbing away and staying covered up. He lands a left and Chad responds with a combo. Inside rights by Johnson and he eats some coming back. Big right knocks Dawson backwards. Both men land to the body. Some vicious shots thrown by Johnson and they take some of the starch out of Chad. Now a left hook and a right upstairs. Johnson took control from the middle of the round onward.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Johnson
Round 6
I have to imagine Dawson is losing on the cards and Johnson hits harder, which is a tough combo to beat. Johnson finds the range with both hands inside. Now Dawson goes back to circling. Both guys throw lefts in the middle of the ring. Dawson digs to the body as Glen continues to stalk. The crowd boos because Dawson is retreating. He's picking his spots much better in this round. Johnson tries to steal the round at the end but I think Dawson fought that round very well.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Dawson
Round 7
Both boxers are getting very good advice from their corners. Dawson comes out moving and jabbing. Johnson goes to the body. Chad unleashes a combo but it was more sizzle than steak. Right by Johnson but Dawson's right in response is even bigger. That was the first time Glen's looked stunned so far tonight. Dawson looks like he's regained some confidence. Quick combo to the head by Chad. Johnson still coming forward but not throwing as many punches, and his jab has gone away. Both men trade with Johnson landing the biggest punch and Dawson landing quantity.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Dawson
Round 8
Dawson showing very good movement but Johnson looks more determined this round. His volume has definitely picked back up. Dawson tries a few lefts. Chad slips a right and goes back to his jab. He lands a few shots to the head in succession. Another quick combo that at least looks good. Body and head combo and Johnson lands a straight right in response. Right uppercut by Dawson. A nice exchange both ways. Johnson gets inside but Dawson throws back at the bell. Close round.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Dawson
Round 9
Johnson's corner told him he needs every round. He comes out like he thinks that's true. Nice right upstairs by Johnson and another. Dawson throws a combo and Johnson is caught off balance. Glen gets back inside and Chad dances away. Both guys find the range in the center of the ring. Nice straight left by Dawson. Right to the body by Johnson. Dawson goes upstairs as the round ends, and that was another close one.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Dawson
Round 10
Dawson's corner screaming at him to box and not get trapped inside. He lands early and circles away from Johnson. Chad works the head and body but the punches aren't that hard. Johnson goes to the body with a right. Nice left by Johnson but it's in the middle of a Dawson flurry. Big right by Johnson staggers Dawson and he's hurt! He's trying to close the show but Dawson is showing some heart. Wow, the action goes all the way to the bell and Dawson hangs in there.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Johnson
Round 11
We're going to learn something about Dawson now. He looks steady early on and is throwing with both hands. Johnson gets inside and lands some rights. Dawson soldiers on but he might be hurt again. Uppercut by Glen with Chad leaning on him. Now Dawson finding the range. Incredible action as both men are throwing bombs inside. Left hook by Johnson and he goes to the body. Dawson shows some late zip but Johnson lands a right to knock Dawson back. That was a fantastic round and very even.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Johnson
Round 12
Last round and it seriously could go either way. Dawson still has spring in his step early on. He's trying to keep it outside but Johnson pushes forward. Now Johnson finds the body and head. Big right and left by Glen. Dawson lands a mean uppercut in response. Johnson definitely showing no quit. Johnson with chopping rights in close as we hit 30 seconds to go. The crowd boos because Chad is backing away. Johnson paws to try to land a few more shots; Dawson seems content to play out the string. That was a great fight.
Franchise scores it: 10-9 Johnson
Franchise scores it 115-113 for Dawson. The judges score it 116-112, 116-112 and 116-112, all for the winner and still WBC light heavyweight champion, "Bad" Chad Dawson.
That's an unpopular decision but not a robbery by any means. Dawson fought a very smart fight and got great advice from his corner. Johnson did what everyone thought he would do, and in retrospect he probably needed that knockdown in the 10th round.
Johnson thinks he got ripped off and isn't happy because he says Dawson has the whole future ahead of him and he is nearing the end of his road. He says he'll definitely take a rematch but he thinks he should be getting it as the winner, not the loser. Dawson seems kind of amused by his foe's outburst.
Dawson says he'll stay at light heavyweight and doesn't seem as thrilled about a rematch as Johnson. He gives credit to Glen but he really seems to think he did enough to win.
Live Round By Round Updates Tonight: Cintron-Margarito, Woods-Tarver, Cotto-Gomez and Dawson-Johnson
If you can't make it to a TV - or even better, two TV's - tonight, you're definitely going to want to bookmark us here at BoxingWatchers.com. We're doing double duty once again, with Spartan117 doing live round by round updates of the HBO card, featuring the highly anticipated rematch between Kermit Cintron and Antonio Margarito and Miguel Cotto stepping in against Alfonso Gomez.
Meanwhile, I'll be doing round by round duties on the Showtime card, which shouldn't be overlooked thanks to two intriguing scraps in the light heavyweight division. Antonio Tarver takes on Clinton Woods while Chad Dawson goes up against Glen Johnson.
Make this your place for updates and reload often tonight to get the scoop on all four fights.
Meanwhile, I'll be doing round by round duties on the Showtime card, which shouldn't be overlooked thanks to two intriguing scraps in the light heavyweight division. Antonio Tarver takes on Clinton Woods while Chad Dawson goes up against Glen Johnson.
Make this your place for updates and reload often tonight to get the scoop on all four fights.
11.4.08
HBO Predictions: Cintron-Margarito and Cotto-Gomez
The Franchise says...
I'm actually a little jealous that Spartan is covering these fights because the Kermit Cintron-Antonio Margarito scrap should be a good one. Of course, I thought that the first time they fought back in 2005, and Margarito had very little trouble disposing of Cintron in five rounds.
Kermit has rebounded nicely since then, posting five knockout victories in a row. The Killer lived up to his nickname for sure in 2007, blasting out Walter Matthysse and delivering all kinds of punishment to Jesse Feliciano. It's kind of cliché to say he's a different boxer than the first time they met, but in this case that certainly looks to be the case.
But Margarito can also claim a bit of a rebirth after his late rally against Paul Williams fell short last July. Tony annihilated Golden Johnson in one round in November, something that had to be good for his psyche.
I'm loathe to pick against Margarito because I respect his talent and this seems like it might be a case where one boxer just doesn't have the answer for the other's style. Even so, I must be drinking the Killer Kool-Aid (or just being a homer since he represents nearby Reading, PA) because I'm going with Cintron to avenge the defeat by a hard-fought decision.
There isn't as much need to do in-depth analysis of the co-feature between Miguel Cotto and Alfonso Gomez. Cotto is simply one of the best boxers in any weight class right now, combining power, toughness and underrated skill into one great package.
He's also fought and defeated some big time fighters, a category that doesn't include Gomez. Alfonso may have some good early rounds, but Cotto is too good and too strong. Even if Cotto is looking past Gomez, I don't think there's any reason not to pick Cotto by mid-round KO.
Uatu says...
That there's nothing to say.
Cotto by KO. Eh... Round 8.
Update: After seeing the weigh-in, Gomez is a bit bigger than Cotto. Not heavier, but taller. Something to keep in mind. Just in case. . .
Since the first Margarito fight, Cintron has kicked the butt of a lot of guys he should have kicked the butt of. Those fighters are not Margarito. Margarito is serious business. But, what Cintron did show in a great action fight against Estrada is that he can take and dish now. So, Margarito is not going to KO Kermit this time. Since Uatu sees Cintron making it to the end this time, this means Cintron will have a greater opportunity to work his offense as well. Margarito though will come out aggressive again too because of the Williams decision going against him. This has all the makings of a great fight to watch.
Margarito UD 12.
lots of fun, lots of action, tense moments both ways, both men give it their all and make fans all over the world.
I'm actually a little jealous that Spartan is covering these fights because the Kermit Cintron-Antonio Margarito scrap should be a good one. Of course, I thought that the first time they fought back in 2005, and Margarito had very little trouble disposing of Cintron in five rounds.
Kermit has rebounded nicely since then, posting five knockout victories in a row. The Killer lived up to his nickname for sure in 2007, blasting out Walter Matthysse and delivering all kinds of punishment to Jesse Feliciano. It's kind of cliché to say he's a different boxer than the first time they met, but in this case that certainly looks to be the case.
But Margarito can also claim a bit of a rebirth after his late rally against Paul Williams fell short last July. Tony annihilated Golden Johnson in one round in November, something that had to be good for his psyche.
I'm loathe to pick against Margarito because I respect his talent and this seems like it might be a case where one boxer just doesn't have the answer for the other's style. Even so, I must be drinking the Killer Kool-Aid (or just being a homer since he represents nearby Reading, PA) because I'm going with Cintron to avenge the defeat by a hard-fought decision.
There isn't as much need to do in-depth analysis of the co-feature between Miguel Cotto and Alfonso Gomez. Cotto is simply one of the best boxers in any weight class right now, combining power, toughness and underrated skill into one great package.
He's also fought and defeated some big time fighters, a category that doesn't include Gomez. Alfonso may have some good early rounds, but Cotto is too good and too strong. Even if Cotto is looking past Gomez, I don't think there's any reason not to pick Cotto by mid-round KO.
Uatu says...
That there's nothing to say.
Cotto by KO. Eh... Round 8.
Update: After seeing the weigh-in, Gomez is a bit bigger than Cotto. Not heavier, but taller. Something to keep in mind. Just in case. . .
Since the first Margarito fight, Cintron has kicked the butt of a lot of guys he should have kicked the butt of. Those fighters are not Margarito. Margarito is serious business. But, what Cintron did show in a great action fight against Estrada is that he can take and dish now. So, Margarito is not going to KO Kermit this time. Since Uatu sees Cintron making it to the end this time, this means Cintron will have a greater opportunity to work his offense as well. Margarito though will come out aggressive again too because of the Williams decision going against him. This has all the makings of a great fight to watch.
Margarito UD 12.
lots of fun, lots of action, tense moments both ways, both men give it their all and make fans all over the world.
Showtime Predictions: Woods-Tarver and Dawson-Johnson
The Franchise says...
Though The Ring magazine rankings respectfully disagree with Showtime's claim that Saturday's card features the four best light heavyweights in the world, it will go a long way toward sorting things out in that division. Of the combatants I probably know the least about Clinton Woods, but I guess he must be taken at least somewhat seriously at this point. Aside from getting knocked out by Roy Jones Jr. in his first trip to the U.S. in 2002, his most notable fights have been against Glen Johnson, and he went 1-1-1 in those three bouts - and the win was a split decision. Not terribly inspiring.
Then again, who knows what to make of Antonio Tarver, a personal favorite? He bounced back with two wins last year after getting badly exposed by Bernard Hopkins in 2006, but The Executioner has been known to make plenty of people look bad. If he has his head on straight I think he is still capable of performing at a high level, but that's a huge "if."
Neither man is young, so age shouldn't be much of a factor. Tarver has fought the better competition, and if he's in shape and throwing a lot of punches, he can be a handful in the early rounds. I wouldn't be shocked if Woods weathers the storm and knocks Tarver out late, but I don't think that's the most likely outcome. I'm seeing Tarver hanging on to win a close decision, though not impressive enough to make anyone think he's headed back for bigger things.
Speaking of handful, that description is very apt for Glen Johnson. He's not afraid to take a punch to land one, and his opponents always have to be ready for a long night. He has wins over Woods, Tarver and Jones to his credit, which isn't too shabby.
Chad Dawson can't say the same, but he did earn comfortable decisions over Eric Harding and Tomasz Adamek, two guys who aren't scrubs. He was even tested early in the Harding fight, coming back from a knockdown in the first round.
I've got no doubt that Johnson will be very game and won't prove to be an easy out. But I just can't pick against Bad Chad's youth and speed. Father Time will catch up with Johnson as Dawson wins by late stoppage.
UATU says...
It's interesting, over the last five years, Tarver has three big wins. Two over Roy Jones and one over Glen Johnson. The second win against Roy wasn't great, as Roy looked really to be just trying to survive and not get knocked out again. The first win over Roy came in such sudden fashion, there's nothing to even evaluate. Even though that was a tremendous win, a win that made Tarver's career and shattered Jones, nothing much can really be analyzed about it, other then the fact that that was the most memorable single left hand of this millennium. The whole fight was five minutes long. And that left was thrown four years ago. There isn't anything from those fights over Jones that can really be pointed to to base a prediction on the current Tarver.
Tarver's loss to Johnson was a somewhat listless performance, although the fight could have gone his way as it was a split decision. His win over Johnson was a better showing, although that was three years ago.
So those fights have to be somewhat discounted when looking at tomorrow's fight. If Tarver does win, it's going to be a close decision in a life and death effort. Woods is likely to throw more punches and press the action to a point that Tarver isn't going to be able to keep up with. Tarver's defense will be better, and perhaps his power. He'd better hope his power keeps Woods honest or knocks him down. Don't want to do it. Hate to say it. Woods by close decision, perhaps split decision.
Dawson over "Gentlemen" Glen Johnson ud 12. Hopefully Johnson keeps the pressure up and makes it interesting. Unlike the other fight, where the aggressor Woods has the younger legs, in this fight the younger legs go to Dawson. That will make the difference when combined with his speed.
Though The Ring magazine rankings respectfully disagree with Showtime's claim that Saturday's card features the four best light heavyweights in the world, it will go a long way toward sorting things out in that division. Of the combatants I probably know the least about Clinton Woods, but I guess he must be taken at least somewhat seriously at this point. Aside from getting knocked out by Roy Jones Jr. in his first trip to the U.S. in 2002, his most notable fights have been against Glen Johnson, and he went 1-1-1 in those three bouts - and the win was a split decision. Not terribly inspiring.
Then again, who knows what to make of Antonio Tarver, a personal favorite? He bounced back with two wins last year after getting badly exposed by Bernard Hopkins in 2006, but The Executioner has been known to make plenty of people look bad. If he has his head on straight I think he is still capable of performing at a high level, but that's a huge "if."
Neither man is young, so age shouldn't be much of a factor. Tarver has fought the better competition, and if he's in shape and throwing a lot of punches, he can be a handful in the early rounds. I wouldn't be shocked if Woods weathers the storm and knocks Tarver out late, but I don't think that's the most likely outcome. I'm seeing Tarver hanging on to win a close decision, though not impressive enough to make anyone think he's headed back for bigger things.
Speaking of handful, that description is very apt for Glen Johnson. He's not afraid to take a punch to land one, and his opponents always have to be ready for a long night. He has wins over Woods, Tarver and Jones to his credit, which isn't too shabby.
Chad Dawson can't say the same, but he did earn comfortable decisions over Eric Harding and Tomasz Adamek, two guys who aren't scrubs. He was even tested early in the Harding fight, coming back from a knockdown in the first round.
I've got no doubt that Johnson will be very game and won't prove to be an easy out. But I just can't pick against Bad Chad's youth and speed. Father Time will catch up with Johnson as Dawson wins by late stoppage.
UATU says...
It's interesting, over the last five years, Tarver has three big wins. Two over Roy Jones and one over Glen Johnson. The second win against Roy wasn't great, as Roy looked really to be just trying to survive and not get knocked out again. The first win over Roy came in such sudden fashion, there's nothing to even evaluate. Even though that was a tremendous win, a win that made Tarver's career and shattered Jones, nothing much can really be analyzed about it, other then the fact that that was the most memorable single left hand of this millennium. The whole fight was five minutes long. And that left was thrown four years ago. There isn't anything from those fights over Jones that can really be pointed to to base a prediction on the current Tarver.
Tarver's loss to Johnson was a somewhat listless performance, although the fight could have gone his way as it was a split decision. His win over Johnson was a better showing, although that was three years ago.
So those fights have to be somewhat discounted when looking at tomorrow's fight. If Tarver does win, it's going to be a close decision in a life and death effort. Woods is likely to throw more punches and press the action to a point that Tarver isn't going to be able to keep up with. Tarver's defense will be better, and perhaps his power. He'd better hope his power keeps Woods honest or knocks him down. Don't want to do it. Hate to say it. Woods by close decision, perhaps split decision.
Dawson over "Gentlemen" Glen Johnson ud 12. Hopefully Johnson keeps the pressure up and makes it interesting. Unlike the other fight, where the aggressor Woods has the younger legs, in this fight the younger legs go to Dawson. That will make the difference when combined with his speed.
8.4.08
Bernard Hopkins on Philly Radio Thursday
For B-hop fans, Bernard 'the Executioner' Hopkins will be on the Howard Eskin radio show out of Philadelphia Thursday sometime between 3-7pm. Uatu will be unavailable to give you a live recap, but if you have the chance it will be on wip610. Bernard usually makes appearances on this show prior to his fights and to promote most of the big upcoming Golden Boy Promotion fights. Not surprisingly, he is an excellent guest.
5.4.08
Floyd Mayweather vs. Rocky Balboa
Here's a link to a "Tale of the Tape" between Floyd and Rocky on cnnsi.com. Honestly it's pretty lame and not very funny. Whatever, it's still boxing exposure on a major outlet. Plus you get to see Floyd's awesome fur outfit again.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/extramustard/04/03/mayweather.balboa.tale/index.html
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/extramustard/04/03/mayweather.balboa.tale/index.html
Jim Rome Takes Bernard Hopkins to Task
Yesterday on the "Jim Rome is Burning" show on ESPN, Jim Rome had some remarks for Bernard's comments regarding not being beaten by a "white boy" - of course, Joe Calzaghe. Rome described Bernard as one of the great trash talkers, but thought that he may have made a mistake in insulting Calzaghe in this fashion.
Rome recounted one of Bernard's more famous episodes, where he stomped on the Puerto Rican flag before his showdown with Felix "Tito" Trinidad, and recalled some of his put-downs to Tito's fans.
Rome thinks Bernard's remarks are classless, but beyond that, since Joe is younger and may be stronger and faster, that Bernard may be eating those words in two weeks, and he's going to look extra dumb for saying such things.
Rome recounted one of Bernard's more famous episodes, where he stomped on the Puerto Rican flag before his showdown with Felix "Tito" Trinidad, and recalled some of his put-downs to Tito's fans.
Rome thinks Bernard's remarks are classless, but beyond that, since Joe is younger and may be stronger and faster, that Bernard may be eating those words in two weeks, and he's going to look extra dumb for saying such things.
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