Further to the approval by the AIBA Extraordinary Congress of the inclusion of the AIBA Professional Boxing (APB) in the AIBA Statutes, the international consulting company KPMG was hired to develop a master business plan for both AIBA and AIBA's exclusive Marketing Company (BMA). In addition, following the Statutes, the APB Executive Board was formed with eight initial members.
Chaired by Dr Ching-Kuo Wu, AIBA President, the APB Executive Board includes Dr Abdellah Bessalem (Algeria), Mr Bekzhan Bektenov (Kazakhstan), Mr Osvaldo Bisbal (Argentina), Mr Luiz Boselli (Brazil), Mr Franco Falcinelli (Italy), Dr Humbert Furgoni (France) and Dr Tom Virgets (USA). Mr David Francis (Wales), as AIBA Treasurer and Mr Ho Kim, as AIBA Executive Director, are non-voting members.
On Wednesday 21 March 2012 at the AIBA Headquarters in Lausanne (Switzerland), the APB Executive Board received a final presentation of the AIBA and BMA business plan and approved it unanimously. This business plan will now need to be ratified by the AIBA Executive Committee in July.
The plan includes the new AIBA administration and management embracing three major programs, AOB (AIBA Olympic Boxing), WSB (World Series of Boxing) and APB (AIBA Professional Boxing). It also includes the business plan for the AIBA Marketing Company, BMA (Boxing Marketing Arm). This BMA business plan will certainly be further enhanced by the company once it is registered independently.
The APB Executive Board approved the projections of the competition structure, the marketing plans, the organisational structure, the P/L projections and timelines. In addition, the Board also approved to register BMA in Switzerland and to locate its HQ Offices in Lausanne.
In regard to the running on these three AIBA programs, it was decided to integrate all administrative work in one umbrella organisation which will oversee all AOB, WSB and APB programs from the existing AIBA HQ Offices. With this expansion, AIBA will be hiring additional staff.
In a letter sent to all 194 AIBA National Federations, AIBA President, Dr Ching-Kuo Wu stated: "I would like to sincerely express my appreciation for your confidence and support on all new initiatives and efforts made to enhance the sport of boxing and our organization for the betterment of all boxers".
The APB Executive Board will next meet on 7-8 July 2012 in Bangkok, Thailand, around the AIBA Executive Committee meeting.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
The APB Executive Board approves APB and BMA business plan
Team Molina's Official Position on Travesty in Texas "Texas Commission Has No Choice But to Reverse DQ and Rule a No Contest."
Team Molina's Official Position
on Travesty in Texas
"Texas Commission Has No Choice But to Reverse DQ and Rule a No Contest."
The representatives of junior middleweight Carlos Molina have the following official response to his improper disqualification Saturday night against James Kirkland in a WBC Light Middleweight Semi-Final Elimination fight at the Reliant Arena in Houston, Texas.
"Referee Jon Schorle was in error of Texas rules last night when he disqualified Carlos Molina and therefore the fight must be changed to a No Contest ruling," asserts Leon Margules, promoter of Chicago-based junior middleweight "King" Carlos Molina.
Schorle, with assistance from Texas Commission officials and others at ringside, disqualified Molina, saying that his cornerman entered the ring while the round was ongoing because he was still delivering his standing eight count for the questionable flash knockdown Molina suffered at the end of round 10.
If a cornerman enters the ring during a round, a disqualification is possible, however, Margules correctly points to Texas Commission Rule 61.41(K)(6), which states:
When a round ends before a contestant who was knocked down rises, the bell shall not ring, and the count shall continue. If the contestant rises before the count of ten, the bell shall ring ending the round.
"By issuing a standing eight count after the knockdown, Referee Schorle was in violation of his own commission's rule," explains Margules. "The moment Carlos Molina got to his feet, the round was over. In Texas, and as far as I know everywhere else in the United States, there is no standing eight count in the case of a knockdown at the end of a round. Once the fighter stands up, the round is over. Therefore, Carlos' cornerman was correct to enter the ring after his fighter stood up because the bell had already rung, and it was Referee Schorle who was incorrect to issue an eight count. The Texas Commission should have no choice but to change this to a No Contest. It was their referee who didn't know their own rules. There was no foul. Under Texas rules, the cornerman did not enter the ring until after the round ended."
Margules says it was an unfortunate conclusion to what could have been a cliff hanger over the final two rounds. "Even if there hadn't been a rule violation necessitating a No Contest... even if the disqualification had been technically justifiable, it was a tragic ending to a fight between two young fighters who trained extremely hard and fought extremely hard to get where they are. The fans will never know what would have happened in those last two rounds. We think Carlos would have gotten back up and continued dominating the fight, but I'm sure their side thinks James was starting to turn it on and would have completed the miracle comeback. Now none of us will ever know and that's a shame."
Schorle's mishandling of Texas rules wasn't the only impropriety Margules makes note of from Saturday night.
"Gale Van Hoy's scorecard is a pretty clear indication that he's not physically capable of judging fights anymore. Gale has served boxing honorably for many years, but his declining health has obviously robbed him of his ability to accurately judge a fight."
Unbelievably, Judge Van Hoy had Kirkland winning the fight 86-85 at the time of the DQ, while the vast majority of observers feel that Molina had established a dominant lead. Judges Dave Moretti (88-83) and David Sutherland (87-84) agreed, having Molina winning by five and three points respectively.
Margules says in addition to the inevitable No Contest ruling he will oversee, he will petition the WBC for an immediate rematch.
DERRICK “TAKE IT TO BANK” WEBSTER STEPS IT UP TO TAKE ON JOHN MACKEY THIS SATURDAY, MARCH 31ST IN HAMILTON, NJ
This Saturday night, March 31st Nedal Abuhumoud’s Nedal’s Promotions and Andre Kut’s KEA Boxing present a great night of professional boxing at the Beautiful Hamilton Manor in Hamilton, New Jersey.
In the main event, rising Super Middleweight prospect, Derrick “Take It to the Bank” Webster will take on his sternest test to date when he takes on veteran John Mackey in a bout scheduled for eight rounds.
Webster of Glassboro, New Jersey is unblemished with a record of 12-0 with seven knockouts and has been upping the competition and has solid victories over thirty-five fight veteran Jose Medina (KO 1); a six round unanimous decision over Romaro Johnson (11-3-1) and his last bout he scored an explosive first round stoppage over Brian Bernard to capture the BAM Super Middleweight title.
Mackey of Montgomery, Alabama has a record of 13-6-3 with six knockouts and has faced and defeated top competition. Mackey won his first eight bouts with quality wins over Tim Leonard (3-0-1); Tony Cygan (12-0-1) and Alexander Mancea (7-1). Mackey’s only losses have been to quality fighters such as Cecil McCalla (6-0); Derek Ennis (17-2-1); James McGirt Jr. (21-2-1) and Tarvis Simms (26-1-1). Sprinkled in between Mackey proved to be an ultimate spoiler with wins over then undefeated prospect Donald Orr (15-0) and George Rivera and draws with Jesse Nicklow (19-1-1). In his last bout Mackey fought to a disputed draw with New England prospect Vladine Biosse (11-1)
A terrific undercard has been assembled that will feature undefeated Polish import Przemyslaw Opalach (9-0, 8 KO’s) make his American debut when he takes on Sean Ryan Wilson (7-3, 2 KO’s) of Cambridge, Nebraska in a six round Middleweight bout
KEA Boxing’s undefeated Welterweight Juan “The Beast” Rodriguez Jr. (8-0, 3 KO’s) of Union City, NJ will take on the rugged Daniel Crabtree (3-4, 3 KO’s) of Hilliard, Ohio in a six round Welterweight bout.
In a six round Middleweight bout, Alando Swain (4-1, 1 KO) of Trenton, NJ will take on Eddie Edmonds (2-1-2, 1 KO) of Trenton, NJ
In a four round female Featherweight bout Mikayla Nebal of Ohio will make her pro debut when she takes on Nydia Feliciano (4-2-3) of Bronx, NY
Undefeated Heavyweight Joe Cusumano (2-0, 2 KO’s) of Virginia Beach, VA will take on durable Lonnie Kornegay (1-6-2) of Baltimore, MD
Rounding out the card will be Tyrone Luckey (4-1, 4 KO’s) of Middletown, New Jersey battling Philadelphian Ramon Ellis (2-7-1, 1 KO) in a four round Lightweight bout.CNN Broadcasts HBO Reality Series 24/7 Mayweather/Cotto
HBO's Emmy-Award®-winning reality series '24/7' is returning to CNN, which will air replays of the all-new four-part series 24/7 MAYWEATHER/COTTO, beginning Saturday, April 14 at midnight ET/PT.
In the lead-up to the blockbuster HBO Pay-Per-View® telecast on May 5 in Las Vegas when Floyd Mayweather and Miguel Cotto battle for Cotto's world super welterweight title, CNN will present all four episodes of 24/7 MAYWEATHER/COTTO, the all-access, behind-the-scenes pass that allows viewers to step into the lives of the fighters before they step into the ring. Mayweather lives and trains in Las Vegas, NV, while Puerto Rico's Cotto will train in Florida.
35-year-old Floyd Mayweather (42-0, 26 KOs) is a celebrated superstar making his sixth appearance on the '24/7' series. Cotto, 31, (37-2, 30 KOs) has reinvigorated his career by capturing the super welterweight title and successfully defending it twice in 2011. This is Cotto's third appearance on '24/7.'
Episode one will air on CNN on Saturday, April 14 at midnight ET/PT, following the HBO premiere at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT. Episode two and three will air on CNN on subsequent Saturdays - April 21 (12 midnight ET/PT) and 28 (12 midnight ET/PT). The finale will air on CNN on Friday, May 4 at 12 midnight ET/PT, less than 24 hours before the mega-fight in Las Vegas.
In the past four years, HBO's 24/7 franchise has earned 14 Sports Emmys® for production excellence, making it the most honored sports series on television since its inception. Narrated by Liev Schreiber, the fast-moving, documentary-styled production focuses on the training, commitment and sacrifices that prizefighters make in order to realize their dreams. The turnaround time is among the quickest in television as the series follows the fighters and their teams both at camp and at home as excitement and anxiety builds for the big fight.
CNN Worldwide, a division of Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner Company, is the most trusted source for news and information. Its reach extends to nine cable and satellite television networks; one private place-based network; two radio networks; wireless devices around the world; CNN Digital Network, the No. 1 network of news Web sites in the United States; CNN Newsource, the world's most extensively-syndicated news service; and strategic international partnerships within both television and the digital media.Red Hawk Promotions Professional Boxing Goes West
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Morales vs. Garcia and Kirkland vs. Molina, Tonight at 10PM ET/7PM PT on HBO
♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.
Fight Night 36: Zab Judah vs. Vernon Paris
The fight is tonight on NBC Sports Network at 10 pm ET! "Fight Night 36: Zab Judah" is a half hour special about 36 hours in the life of Zab Judah as he prepares for his fight against Vernon Paris.
Friday, March 23, 2012
FIRST ROUND PROMOTIONS PIERSON & THOMPSON READY TO ROLL ON APRIL 18TH IN NEWARK
On Wednesday night April 18th, Gabe LaConte’s First Round Promotions in association with Greg Cohen Promotions presents a great night of boxing at the Beautiful Robert Treat Hotel in downtown Newark.Two of the star members of LaConte’s growing stable Richard Pierson and undefeated John Thompson will be in the main event and co-main event respectively and will be looking to make big statements on the night of the 18th.
Pierson, thirty-one years of Paterson, New Jersey has a record of 10-2 with seven knockouts and looked like he didn’t miss a beat after a twenty month layoff when he took out Anibal Acevedo in one round this past February 17th in Nutley, New Jersey.
Pierson now feels with LaConte behind him that he has a chance to make a lot noise in his career.
“I felt good and I was a little rusty because of the inactivity”, said Pierson.
“I was happy that I won but I wasn’t satisfied as I wanted and needed rounds because I didn’t even spar a lot for the fight.”
Pierson will take on Joshua Snyder (9-6-1, 3 KO’s) of Berlin, MD
“I always never know much about my opponent. I am not bothered by it. It’s almost like fighting in the streets. You never know when you will get into a street fight and it’s kind of like the same thing as I don’t watch much tape anyway. I can’t complain how things are going, I know I will have an opponent and it doesn’t matter. The only guy I won’t fight is Mike Tyson”
Besides LaConte, Pierson has Lou Esa and Vito Mielnicki as part of the team.
“I have known Vito for years. I met him at the gym. Vito and Lou really take care of me and I know they really care about their fighters. Vito makes sure we are training and you don’t see that a lot and unlike a lot of people in this business, Vito has given me no false promises”
Thompson will take on Jamond Bourgeos (4-1, 1 KO) in a six round Middleweight bout.
The twenty-three year old former amateur standout from Newark is known as “The Apollo Kid” has been perfect in his six outing and notched his second knockout on February 17th when he took care of Laureano Laracuente in three rounds.
“I feel great and I am making progress in every fight”, said Thompson.
“Right now I have been building my name and I feel like a local celebrity.”
“In my last bout, I did what I had to do and I feel good about my performance. For this fight I have seen Jamond. I know he holds his hands up and just swings. I know I am on a whole different caliber. Anybody can just go in there in swing where I come with a lot skill”
“Vito Mielnicki and Gabe LaConte have moved me well. They have been keeping me active and it’s been great so far and I look forward to see what the future holds”
Those are just two of the bouts of a loaded night of boxing:
In a six round Bantamweight bout, Qa’id Muhammad (6-0, 5 KO’s) of Atlantic City, New Jersey takes on Steven Johnson (7-4, 4 KO’s) of St. Joseph, Missouri
Tommy Rainone (17-4, 4 KO’s) of New York takes on Josh Hammaock (9-8, 6 KO’s) of Fort Smith, Arkansas in a six round Welterweight bout.
Mike Concepcion of Newark will make his pro debut against an opponent to be named in a four round Jr. Welterweight bout.
Aaron Kinch (2-0-1, 1 KO) of Newark will take on an opponent to be named in a four round Heavyweight affair.
Leandro Acevedo of Newark will make his pro debut against Marcus Clay (0-1) of Baton Rouge, LA in a four round Super Middleweight fight.
Joseliz Cepeda (5-2) of Newark will take on an opponent to be named in a four round Super Featherweight bout.
Joel De La Paz (6-0, 4 KO’s) will return after a sixteen month absence against an opponent to be named in a four round Super Middleweight bout.
♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Carson Jones Ready to face Kell Brook!
♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.
Monday, March 19, 2012
Bernard Hopkins taking a vow of silence when it comes to trash-talking Chad Dawson; by Denzil Stone - Atlantic City
Hopkins wants to prove he can beat another guy two decades his junior. Credit: Hogan Photos/Golden Boy Dawson, though, has other ideas. The southpaw, a former champion of the IBF and IBO titles with victories over Antonio Tarver (twice), Glen Johnson (twice) and Tomasz Adamek, has already crossed swords with Hopkins; a two round technical knockout in October last year that was later changed to a 'No Contest' as B-Hop was unable to continue due to suffering a shoulder injury following a fall.
“The first fight did not go as planned, but I’m confident I was going to win that night," said Dawson, who then alluded to the possibility that Hopkins was looking for an exit when they last fought but will not be able to find another when they box in New Jersey next month.
"Hopkins is going to have to face his fears," Bad Chad added. "Bernard tried to run away from me, but here we are again. I’m thrilled about the whole situation. I’m very excited to fight on the East Coast because a lot of my fans will be there to see me live. I know I’ll be ready come fight night."
Hopkins commented that he will leave the bad-mouthing to Dawson: "Chad can say whatever he wants, but I am not going to trash talk this one. Everyone knows what I am capable of in the ring. They have seen it over 50 times before in the last 20 plus years."
History-making Hopkins, inspired by Moore, aims to continue to place his name next to the Old Mongoose by making successful defences that belie his elder statesman status.
Moore was 44 years and 190 days when he triumphed over Giulio Rinaldi in 1961, while George Foreman was 46 years and 113 days when he defeated Axel Schulz. Hopkins, though, would surpass both with a win over Dawson: "I absolutely want to prove that I can beat Chad Dawson, another guy that is almost two decades younger than me and I am confident I will on April 28."
Alicia "Slick" Ashley retains her WBC Super Bantamweight Title!
Alicia Ashley land a right hand against challenger Maria Elena Villalobos on 3/17/2012 to retain her WBC Title, Photo: Alma Montiel Prindle vs. Santos $100,000 Heavyweight Tournament Championship Added to Bellator 62
Everything is bigger in Texas – including the fight cards. Bellator Fighting Championships returns to The Lone Star State on Friday, March 23rd with a completely stacked night of fights at Bellator 62 live from the Laredo Energy Arena in Laredo, Texas.
The night will feature the long-awaited rematch between “The American Soldier” Eric Prindle and Thiago “Big Monster” Santos to determine a winner from last season’s heavyweight tournament. The night’s main event, which was originally scheduled for Bellator 61 on March 16, was moved to this Friday because of a commission mandate due to Prindle battling flu-like symptoms. Despite the minor setback, “The American Soldier” is itching to not only get his hands on Santos, but to get that heavyweight gold.
“I’m just ready to get into the cage and end this,” Prindle said. “I’m a warrior and want my shot against Konrad.”
But Thiago “Big Monster” Santos doesn’t agree with Prindle’s game plan; and the colossal Brazillian wants to make sure that he’s the one that earns the $100 K and world heavyweight title shot.
“Now I’ve just got one more week to train and one more week to think about winning,” Santos said. “It sounds like Eric may have been sick, and I don’t want to fight with any excuses. I want to beat him at 100 percent.”
“It makes sense that this huge fight between two Heavyweights is coming to Texas,” Bellator Chairman & CEO Bjorn Rebney said. “When Oscar Enriquez and his team at Ultimate Warrior Fighting approached me about bringing Bellator live on MTV2 to Laredo, he had all of the right pieces in place and he made the decision an easy one. With our first trip to Laredo already packed with world class talent, adding this Championship fight makes this one of the best event line-ups we’ve ever put together.”
Not only will Bellator 62 decide Bellator Heavyweight World Champion Cole Konrad’s next title opponent, but the talent-laden Laredo card will also feature the quarterfinals of Bellator’s $100,000 Season 6 Lightweight Tournament as well a host of Texas’ top MMA talent.
Coming off an explosive knockout victory over UFC veteran Kurt Pellegrino at Bellator 59, Patricky Pitbull (@PatrickyPitbull) is back and looking to start his ascent toward a title shot with a quarterfinal matchup against fan-favorite Lloyd “Cupcake” Woodard (@mmacupcake). Patricky has produced a number of incredible Bellator “YouTube Moments” and has his sights set on adding another highlight to his collection.
Former U.S. Olympian Judoka Rick Hawn (@RickHawnmma) is making the drop to lightweight and meets the dangerous Ricardo Tirloni (@Tirlonimma). Hawn compiled an impressive 11-1 record as a welterweight, but is confident the drop in weight will make him even more dangerous.
“I felt like I was sort of undersized in the last tournament,” Hawn said. “Everyone had a height advantage on me, and while I thought I made a good run in my last welterweight tournament, I think lightweight is going to be a better fit for me and just give me an advantage over everyone else.”
Also making the drop to lightweight is longtime Bellator veteran Brent Weedman (@brent_weedman). Always looking for a finish, “Weedman Nation” will be on full display as he battles Bellator newcomer J.J. Ambrose (@SuperJJAmbrose).
“I’ve already tested myself with a lightweight weight cut and I felt great,” Weedman said. “Over the last year, I’ve felt a little undersized as a welterweight, so I think lightweight is going to be a great spot for me. I’m excited to show off my new skills, and this tournament is stacked, so we’re going to put on a show this season.”
Rounding out an absolutely loaded tournament class, Rene “The Brazilian Bomber” Nazare (@Nazaremma) will square off with top prospect Thiago Michel. A product of Team Bombsquad, Nazare always has his eye on delivering the knockout, and nothing will change on March 23rd.Bellator 63 - Live on MTV2 and Spike.com at 7/6c Friday, March 30, 2012
Ben "Killa B" Saunders vs. Raul Amaya (welterweight tournament quarterfinal)
♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.
Kopylenko, Akhundov Lifts Intercontinental Titles
On Saturday night at the Club Sportlife in Kiev, Ukrainians Vitaliy Kopylenko and Timur Akhundov captured World Boxing Federation Intercontinental titles with stoppage victories over Vasyl Tarabarov, alsothe winner by technical knockout. Arpad Vass fell to 8-4 (6).
from Ukraine, and Hungarian Arpad Vass.
Kopylenko, based in Switzerland and fighting in his native country for the first time since his professional debut four years ago, won the vacant
Middleweight version when he outworked Tarabarov for four rounds, taking
the initiative and landing the heavier shots. Before the fifth,
Tarabarov´s corner stopped the fight when their fighter claimed to be
unable to continue due to the affects of a liver-punch landed in the final
stages of the fourth round, making the official result a TKO in round
five.
With the victory Kopylenko won his first professional championship, and
improved his unbeaten record to 17-0 (8). Tarabarov, a former IBF and WBC
regional belt-holder and Ukrainian national champion, lost for the first
time and dropped to 22-1-1 (8).
In the second WBF title fight of the show promoted by Oleg Bruskov, Timur
Akhundov also won his first title in the pros as he stopped Budapest’s
Arpad Vass in three rounds for the vacant Featherweight strap. Both boxers
were active in the first two rounds, but Akhundov had the most success and
the visitor looked tired already at the end of the second.
After three knockdowns in the third round, referee Victor Panin from
Russia decided enough was enough and declared Akhundov, now 13-2-1 (5),
It’s about Zab Judah being the best Zab Judah he can be. vs. Vernon Paris
Zab Judah, a three-time Junior Welterweight titlist and former undisputed Welterweight world champion, is ecstatic to fight in his hometown for the first time as a professional. “This is a great opportunity, because this is the first time that I will be fighting in Brooklyn as a professional. It’s a great feeling, and I think the last time I fought in Brooklyn, New York, was in the Golden Gloves.”
Brooklyn, the “thoroughest borough” which was once home to great fighters such as Mike Tyson, Riddick Bowe, and Eddie Mustapha Muhammad as well as to a plethora of legendary rappers like the Big Daddy Kane, Notorious B.I.G., and Jay-Z, is the perfect place for Judah to fight in, as the popular fighter has always connected with the hip-hop generation.
One gets the sense that the Brooklynite feels that he has to return home to reclaim some of the magic that made him a “super” prospect in the eyes of all who witnessed his amazing skills since his amateur days.
“I feel like superman, like how he came out of the booth and he became superman again,” explains Judah. “So this is the old Zab Judah all over again, I’m going back to my roots, Brooklyn New York, and when I come out of the booth it will be flying colors again.”
However, many are questioning just how much Judah has left at 34-years-old with so many grueling fights behind him. In his 16-year career, the fighter has shared the ring with the likes of Kostya Tszyu, Cory Spinks, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, and most recently, Amir Khan.
His performance against Khan last July has been cited as evidence that the veteran is not the same fighter that, win or lose, thrilled fans with his blazing speed, thunderous power and an attitude to match in his prime years in the sport.
Judah did not let his hands go enough against Khan to be competitive against the young and hungry champion. The Brit dominated the fight for the first 4 rounds until a body shot dropped Judah for the count in round 5.
“People are questioning me,” admits Judah, clearly aware of the criticism and the calls to perhaps call it a career. “I understand that everybody was a little upset at the last outing, but there are some things that are out of your control. It kind of hurts your feelings, because people are saying ‘that wasn’t a low blow, you got hit with a body shot.’ A body shot? Me? Come on, my body was tremendous. It was as hard as a brick. Amir Khan is no knockout puncher that can stop someone with a body shot. It was a low shot that jammed the cup right into my testicles.”
That loss aside, the Pernell Whitaker-trained Judah insists that the fire to succeed still burns in his belly and that it is fueled by his new found spirituality.
“Oh yeah, my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has re-lit my fire, my fire is back, my hunger is there,” exclaims Judah. “I feel like Jesus when he was at the mountaintop 40 days and 40 nights with no food or water and this is how I am going into this fight. I hate going backwards and trying to explain, but everybody that knows me knows I have a heart like a lion. They used to say ‘he has too much heart, he’s too wild,’ and now they’re saying ‘he’s soft.’ You’re damned if you do, damned if you don’t, but come March 24th you’re going to see Zab Judah and I’ll do what I do best. I think the respect that I deserve as a fighter will be given back at this fight to come.”
In Vernon Paris (26-0, 15 KOs), Judah is facing another undefeated fighter who is a decade younger. In fact, the 24-year-old from Detroit is as brash and cocky as a young Zab Judah was in his prime.
“I remember being in that kind of a position before. I was what Paris is trying to be,” reminisces Judah, now wise enough to know that talking tough does not mean a thing if one cannot back it up in the ring. “I was that kid once, the trash talker, the loud mouth, but it don’t pay the bills. March 24th is a boxing match, and that’s the only thing that should count for anything.”
Judah cites a lack of mental and sometimes physical preparation as the main reasons why he ended up on the losing end of big fights where he started fast and strong. Zab believes that the tricks he learned in 48 professional fights will be too much for a young, inexperienced fighter.
“It’s a 12 round fight, and I’m fighting a fighter that’s never been passed 8 rounds ever in his career. I’ve been 12 rounds numerous times with some of the top fighters in the world today,” explains Judah. “Vernon Paris is going into a depth of water he’s never ever swam and he’s going to find out there is no bottom.”
The fighter clearly counts on experience to be the deciding factor in this fight, but he takes exception to those who call him “old” at 34 years of age.
“It’s funny how they call you old at 34. I don’t understand what’s old. Old is experience and experience is great. I think that everybody that’s old in the game of boxing is great. If you watch the great Bernard Hopkins, he’s done it time after time. George Foreman has shown the world he can do it. I’m not comparing myself to these guys age-wise, but those guys are another decade older than myself. If you look at the whole [Olympic] team of ’96, myself, Antonio Tarver and Floyd Mayweather, we are probably the only three that are still rolling strong. People have to remember just last July I was a champion of the world. Now I’m coming back to rightfully get back what’s mine.”
So is there anything in particular about Vernon Paris that concerns Judah?
“Hopefully he shows up!” quips Judah. “It’s not just Vernon Paris, you gotta understand, he’s just the fighter at hand. It could be any fighter. It’s about Zab Judah being the best Zab Judah he can be.”
The fighter does have a message for his young opponent, however.
“You have to respect everywhere that you go. You can’t disrespect or bad mouth anywhere that you go and just expect to walk out there plain and calm. Vernon Paris is coming to Brooklyn City, New York. I don’t want anyone to say that this is a Detroit vs. Brooklyn fight, because it’s totally not. I love Detroit, I represented Detroit, I defended my world title on the Tyson-Golota undercard in Detroit, I have a lot of friends in Detroit and I love Detroit. The only one that is thinking something like this is Vernon Paris and his weak minded crew. At the same time, all that I ask the young man is to come in here and prepare for a boxing match. Come here and give respect and respect will be given back. Understand that you are going through Brooklyn, NY. You can’t come here with disrespect.”
Other than demanding respect, the Brooklyn native claims that he is rejuvenated and blessed that he has one more opportunity to turn back the clock.
“Anybody that knows me knows winning means more to me than anything. I could care less who it is, just that Zab Judah steps in there and be the best Zab Judah that Zab can be. It’s a blessing to be in the situation where I’m at. I was stopped on a low blow, and I’m back fighting for the number one spot for the IBF belt again. I’m excited again. I’m feeling like I’m 22 years old again. The fire is lit, my airline tickets are ready, my hotel is booked. Brooklyn is ready. That’s all I can say, this is going to be great.”
Friday, March 16, 2012
Kendall Holt vs. Tim Coleman March 16th, on ESPN2 Friday Night Fights
On March 16th, 2012 at Morongo Casino & Resorts in Cabazon, CA, Kendall Rated “R” Holt vs. Tim “Pit-bull” Coleman will collide at welterweight. This bout will be televised on ESPN2 Friday Night Fights. It is a do or die match up for each of the two combatants involved, because both Holt and Coleman lost their last outings, respectively. They each lost to top upcoming young prospects. In many aspects, it’s a fight that could’ve happened at 140 a year or so ago on different circumstances. However, it will be going down this Friday, the 16th, for a bit more than bragging rights. (Photo of Kendall Holt by Keisha Morrisey)The Sweet Life; World middleweight contender Peter "Kid Chocolate" Quillin
World middleweight contender Peter "Kid Chocolate" Quillin(26-0, 20 KOs), rated No. 6 by the World Boxing Association ("WBA"), has been enjoying the sweet life since his last fight, in which the undefeated, rising star's HBO debut last November in Cancun resulted in a sixth round stoppage of Craig McEwan.
The 28-year-old bi-coastal resident of Los Angeles and New York City has been busy continuing to hone his skills, pushing his conditioning to the maximum, and marketing himself from coast to coast.
"Kid Chocolate" recently sat on the hot seat to talk about his sweet life:
Quillin's new advisor Al Hayman
"Al Hayman can bring me to another level. Look at the interest in his fighters. My co-managers, John Seip and Jimmy McDevitt, have been doing a good job and they'll continue to do so. They think adding Al as an advisor is a good idea, which proves to me how much they really care about me. Al's the right guy to market my story: I moved from the mean streets Grand Rapids to New York City, into a similar environment, just fighting and sleeping on floors to survive. I've learned a lot the hard way."
What Quillin's been up to
"I went back to New York City after my last fight. I sparred with Carl Froch when he was getting ready to fight Andre Ward. I went home to Grand Rapids where I started boxing. I was invited there to go to a boxing program as a role model for young kids at a boxing camp/clinics. In walked Jonathan Banks and Andre Dirrell, who I sparred with he's very talented. I was blessed to be in that situation. I went back to New York City and connected with Austin Trout, who is a world champion and real cool guy.
"In New York, I went to Gleason's Gym to support an amateur show and was a guest on a Sirius boxing show with Randy Gordon and Gerry Cooney. I also appeared on two HBO shows: On Freddie Roach and How To Make It In America."
Why Andy Lee fight fell apart
"I agreed to fight Andy Lee. There may be a lot of reasons why it didn't happen, but I guess it couldn't happen because of boxing politics."
Winky Wright Fight
"We both agreed by the Nevada Athletic Commission won't approve his license because of his age and inactivity. It's a risky fight I'm still willing to take. I weighed the risks and rewards. It's a risk because I could lose but it's the reward is beating a big name on my record. It can also get me closer to my world title shot that I've worked so hard for.
"Not fighting on the May 5th Mayweather-Cotto card in Las Vegas had nothing to do with me and Winky. We both signed and everything was in place. You can't stop haters, though.
What's Next for "Kid Chocolate"
"They're still working on a date. It still could be May 5. There will be a May fight for me, maybe against Winky."
Team Chocolate
"I have a hard working promoter, Golden Boy, and a strong team with my co-managers John and Jimmy, Al Hayman as my new advisor, trainers Freddie Roach and Eric Brown, publicist Bob Trieger and Pablo Hernandez, who created my website and manages my social networking."
Boxing as his chosen occupation
"Boxing has been the reason I went from Grand Rapids to New York City and Los Angeles. After sleeping on floors and my other struggles, I've been a pro boxer for almost seven years. I have a nice car, apartment and been able to travel back and forth - Grand Rapids, New York City and LA -- and to other nice places like Miami. Boxing has provided me with the lifestyle I lead today and the best is yet to come."