MightyGloves.com
CLEVELAND'S TERRY MIMS
posted by Kathleen Holland on July 15, 2008
By Jim Amato
After looking at the career and record of Terry Mims, I can't help but wonder how he would have fared if he would just had stayed in the cruiserweight division. Mims who is from Cleveland had 29 fights in a career that spanned from 1977 to 1989. He ended up with a losing record but sometimes records are deceiving.
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COULD JERRY QUARRY HAVE WON A PIECE OF THE HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE IN THIS ERA ?
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
Tough 1960's and 70's heavyweight Jerry Quarry has been almost immortalized these days. He was the heavyweight who came along at the wrong time. The Ali - Frazier era. Joe and Ali each beat Jerry twice, but Jerry had his share of big wins over top contenders. Floyd Patterson, Thad Spencer, Buster Mathis Sr., Mac Foster, Ron Lyle and Earnie Shavers all suffered defeat at the hands of Jerry. You could argue strongly that Quarry was among the four best heavyweights of his day. If four titles were available back then one may safely assume Jerry would have at least won a piece of one of them.
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For Some The Sun Did Not Shine
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
We have all heard of Ali, Frazier and Foreman. Of Tyson and Holyfield. The lighter weight classes have produced the likes of Marvin Hagler, Thomas Hearns and Sugar Ray Leonard. Who will ever forget Duran, Pryor and Arguello?
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James J. Woody
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
Although he ended his career losing almost as many bouts as he won. At one time in the mid-60's heavyweight James J. Woody was considered a fine prospect.
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DREAM FIGHT ; LEWIS -vs- IBEABUCHI
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
Ike " The President " Ibeabuchi scored his twentieth and last victory on March 20, 1999. It was an impressive knockout stoppage of unbeaten, future WBO and IBF heavyweight champion Chris Byrd. Twenty one months earlier he had handed David Tua his first defeat. Ike was a serious heavyweight contender but then he took a detour to prison.
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BERT NABALATAN
posted by Kathleen Holland on July 7, 2008
By Jim Amato
This native of the Philippines did a lot of his fighting in Hawaii where he was a popular draw. He began his professional career in 1971 and won his first eight contests. Then in 1972 he was matched with former world's featherweight champion Kuniaki Shibata. This is the same Shibata who had dethroned the great Vincente Saldivar a few years earlier. Shibata then lost the title to the hard hitting Clemente Sanchez. This was Shibata's first fight since losing the title. It was a tall order for the novice Nabalatan and even though he lost, he took the former titleholder ten rounds.
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STURM BEATS GRIFFIN : IS HE ON KELLY'S SHORT LIST ?
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
Everyone is wondering who will be Kelly Pavlik's opponent this coming September. Rumor has it that newly crowned super welterweight champ Sergio Mora has the inside track. Mora first has to figure out how to get around his rematch clause with Vernon Forrest, the man he upset to win the title. Mexico's hard punching Antonio Rubio is being considered. I've even heard welterweight champion Paul Williams is in the mix. More on that possible match later. Who ever meets Kelly, it will be all roads lead to an early 2009 match with Arthur Abraham. Pavlik-Abraham is one of the hottest tickets in town.
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JOE CALZAGHE - ROY JONES JR. : An Early Prefight View
posted by Kathleen Holland on July 2, 2008
By Jim Amato
Photos by Chris McGee
Although it is not etched in stone, it is beginning to look like the proposed Joe Calzaghe - Roy Jones Jr. bout will be made. The projected date is in November. The ramifications of this fight could have an immense impact on the current state of the sport. Will Roy win and reclaim his mantle of greatness ? Will a Calzalghe win seal a much desired match between Joe and Kelly Pavlik in 2009 ? Will Calzaghe, upon a win over Jones retire as he has hinted ?
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Sir Henry Cooper
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
He came from a fighting family and by the time his boxing career ended in 1971 he was the most beloved British boxer of all time. Only once did he challenge for the World's title but he dominated the British heavyweight scene for over fifteen years. His popularity soared even more after retirement and eventually the Queen of England knighted him. Sir Henry Cooper was more than just a British fighter. He was a fine example of what British boxing is all about.
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JOHNNY LIRA
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
The city of Chicago has produced its share of outstanding professional fighters. One of them was a tough as nails lightweight who campaigned in the late 1970's and early 1980's. His name was Johnny Lira and he fought his way into the top echelon of the lightweight rankings.
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" BAD " BENNIE BRISCOE
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
There are certain boxers from my past that in retrospect would be champions today. One such boxer was tough enough to be nicknamed " Bad ". He was Bennie Briscoe from Philadelphia and brother you better bet he was just that, " Bad ". He was probably the most feared middleweight of his era and it was a tough time just be a middleweight in Philly. If you were bad there, you were bad everywhere.
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Ray Anderson
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
Back in the early and mid 1970's, northeast Ohio had three world class light heavyweight contenders campaigning for a world title shot. Ray Anderson of Akron would be the one who was fortunate enough to receive a shot at the brass ring. The other two, John Griffin and Billy Wagner of Cleveland fell short of their title fight dreams but they did wage two memorable wars against each other.
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A Landmark, Lost and Lamented
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Ted Luzzi
Years ago back in the early seventies I use to drive three or four times a year from Los Angeles to Marin County ( just across the bridge from San Francisco). I grew up in Marin and my parents lived there. (still do!) Back in those days of cheap gas I would take a bunch of buddies, who like me, were going to college in L.A., and drop them off at their destinations on the way as I roared through central California in my new Dodge Charger. The Charger was my gift to myself for having finished two years of military service and having finished my time in the Vietnam war zone with not even a scratch.
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Wladimir Klitschko prepares for upcoming fight
posted by mightygloves.com on June 28, 2008
IBF, IBO, and WBO Heavyweight Champion Wladimir Klitschko having his hands wrapped by co-trainer James Ali Bashir at their training camp in Austria in preparation for his upcoming fight against #1 Contender Tony Williams of Washington, DC. The fight will take place on July 12 at the Color Line Arena in Hamburg, Germany.
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WHEN DICK TIGER TAMED THE 60's
posted by Kathleen Holland on June 23, 2008
By Jim Amato
He was born Richard Ihetu in his native Nigeria in 1929. He died forty
two years later in Nigeria. In between he established himself as one of
the best pound for pound fighters of the 1960's. He was known to the boxing
world as Dick Tiger. It was a very fitting moniker for the man who crowned
world champion on three occasions.
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MANNY PACQUAIO -VS- DAVID DIAZ ON JUNE 28th
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
The eyes of the boxing world will be focused on Manny Pacquiao next Saturday in his quest to win the lightweight title. To some, Manny winning this fight and a piece of the lightweight crown is a forgone conclusion. Many feel that Manny is the best boxer pound for pound active today. A win Saturday could open the door for mega fights between Manny and Ricky Hatton and maybe even a Pacquiao - De La Hoya confrontation. It seems to me that many boxing scribes and fans are putting the cart way before the horse. Manny's opponent, David Diaz of Chicago has only lost one of 36 pro fights. By the way he is also the WBC lightweight titleholder. In a nutshell, this young man can fight !
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TERRY HINKE : Just Another Northwest Heavyweight
posted by Kathleen Holland on June 20, 2008
By Jim Amato
When you're a professional heavyweight and you win forty of forty eight fights, chances are you could fight a little. Oregon's Terry Hinke could fight. Although he would never reach the heavyweight " A " list, he was good enough to do well against some fairly good competition.
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BRIAN LONDON
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
The British produced some quality heavyweights during the 1950's and 60's. Of course " Ol' " Enry ' Cooper comes to mind. There was rugged Joe Erskine and Wales gave us Dick Richardson. Later Billy " The Golden Boy " Walker would emerge. One of the best was Brian London who would twice fight for world title honors.
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PERNELL WHITAKER
posted by Kathleen Holland on June 15, 2008
By Jim Amato
Pernell Whitaker is inducted into the International Boxing Hall Of Fame. This is an honor he richly deserves. His storied amateur career along with his " Who's Who " list of boxers he met in the professional ranks surely entitles him to this honor. What a career he had !
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JACK "The Giant" O'HALLORAN ; THE FORGOTTEN WHITE HOPE
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
As Muhammad Ali ruled the heavyweight division in the mid 60's, white hope contenders came and went. Henry Cooper, George Chuvalo and Karl Mildenberger all were vanquishedby the "Greatest". When Ali was forced to relinquish his crown in 1967, the best of the white contenders was probably Jerry Quarry. By 1969 a huge brute of a man named Jack O'Halloran had compiled an impressive 16-1-1 record. Standing at around 6' 6" and weighing in the vicinity of 240lbs., Jack struck fear into opponents by his mere bulk. In 1969 he upgraded his opposition with mixed results. He dropped decisions to Joe "King" Roman, Joe Bugner and Tony Doyle. On August 19th he was halted by rugged "Florida" Al Jones. In turn he outscored Carl Gizzi and stopped Mexican contender Manuel Ramos in seven rounds.
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ERBITO SALAVARRIA : THE PHILIPPINES FORGOTTEN CHAMPION
posted by Kathleen Holland on June 11, 2008
By Jim Amato
The Philippines have been getting a lot of boxing press lately through the success of favorite son Manny Pacquiao and deservedly so. The Philippines have produced many great fighters like Flash Elorde and Ceferino Garcia. One such fine fighter and former two time world champion from the Philippines has been largely forgotten through the passages of time. His name was Erbito Salavarria.
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Rocky Marciano’s Lost Title Fight!
posted by Kathleen Holland on June 8, 2008
By Ted Luzzi
Here in the San Francisco bay area the glory days of boxing in our city seem behind us. Nearby Las Vegas is supreme. However some still gather around and talk boxing and great fighters and fights. Recently it was about the greatest of Italian fighters and when he came to town.
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DREAM FIGHT : CARLOS MONZON -VS- GENE FULLMER
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
Two of the strongest middleweights to ever lace up the gloves square off for a battle of the ages. Carlos Monzon of Argentina. Tall, lean but deceptively strong with a thudding left jab and a thumping right cross. Gene Fullmer of Utah. Barrel chested and bull strong. Awkwardly aggressive but effective, especially on the inside. This should be a real crowd pleasing affair.
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TIMBER : THE FALL OF BIG JOHN TATE
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
He was to be the heir apparent to the retired Muhammad Ali. He was a big strong heavyweight who could box. Yes Larry Holmes was the holder of the World Boxing Council's version of the heavyweight title. Larry had been embarrassed though in the amateurs by Duane Bobick. Yes as a pro he was undefeated. He beat an aging , slow and ponderous Earnie Shavers to qualify for a shot at the WBC title. Larry then defeated Ken Norton to win the vacant WBC championship. Still many thought of Larry as nothing more the Ali's sparring partner who was in the right place at the right time.
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MOVIE REVIEW : " POOR BOYS GAME "
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
This 2008 boxing movie is what I call a " sleeper ". The cast is headed by veteran actor Danny Glover who plays George Carvery. George is a former trainer whose son is beaten up outside the ring and left permanently disabled. The young man accused of this crime is Donnie Rose ( played by Rossif Sutherland ). Rose served nine years in prison for the crime but upon being released he is challenged to a boxing match by prospect Ossie Paris ( played by Flex Alexander ) , a friend of the Carvery family. This is the perfect revenge setting George and his distraught wife but the plot takes some interesting twists and turns.
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KLITSCHKO vs HAYE : MR.HAYE MAY GET BLOWN AWAY !
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
I recently caught a clip of cruiserweight champion David Haye calling out heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko at a shopping mall. Wladimir looked to be rather amused by Haye's bold challenge. He had a " you've got to be kidding me ' look on his face. Wlad said something to the effect that David needed to put on some weight. He also told Haye to " get in line " for a title shot.
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Carlos Quintana vs Paul Williams
posted by Kathleen Holland on June 4, 2008
By Ted Luzzi
Paul "the Punisher" Williams will get his chance to redeem his reputation and win back his part of the welterweight title on June 7.
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Boxing’s "Big Mac"
posted by Kathleen Holland on June 2, 2008
By Jim Amato
Long before Mark McGwire was launching tape measure home runs in Oakland and acquiring the nickname "Big Mac", West Coast sports fans used to cheer the feats of another "Big Mac". MacArthur Foster a heavyweight boxer from Fresno, California won his first 24 professional bouts all by knockout. Six came in the first round, four in the second round and seven in the third round. By the spring of 1970 he was the number one rated contender for Joe Frazier’s crown.
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Benny Leonard the Magnificent and Perhaps the Greatest Lightweight in History.
posted by Kathleen Holland on May 28, 2008
by Ted Luzzi
The two greatest boxing sports heroes of the golden 1920’s were Jack Dempsey and Benny Leonard. The magnificent Benny Leonard was perhaps the greatest lightweight fighter ever.
Continue reading " Benny Leonard the Magnificent and Perhaps the Greatest Lightweight in History." »
FORMER MIDDLEWEIGHT CONTENDER TONY LICATA PASSES AWAY.
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
One of the better middleweights of the 1970's died recently. Tony Licata was a victim of a heart attack at the age of 56. The smooth boxing Licata turned professional in 1969 and was undefeated in his first 52 fights. ( 49-0-3 ). During that streak he defeated the likes of Mike Pusateri, Luis Vinales, Jose Chirino, Art Hernandez, Denny Moyer, Emile Griffith, Cubby " Top Cat " Jackson, Mike Baker and Vinnie Curto. He suffered his first loss in 1975 on an upset decision to Argentina's Ramon Mendez. Tony came right back to outscore Mendez in a rematch. On June 30, 1975 Licata met another native of Argentina, the great Carlos Monzon. This was for the middleweight title and they fought at New York's Madison Square Garden. It would be Monzon's only appearance in the United States. Licata fought gamely but was overpowered by King Carlos in round ten.
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“CANDY SLIM”; REMEMBER HIM?
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
He began his career in 1964 but it was not until 1973 that he crashed into the heavyweight ratings. In between were periods of inactivity and a multitude of meaningless bouts. He was a murderous, punching prospect that no worthy opponent wanted to chance his career against. By the time he got his “shot” at the big time, he was 21-1 with 16 kayos. He scored seven 1st round kayos and eight 2nd round stoppages. Yet up to this point his claim to fame was being a Muhammad Ali sparring partner. It is a shame that today very few remember Jeff "Candy Slim” Merritt. True, his tenure as a main stream contender was less than a year but oh what a reputation he had. Many at that time considered him the hardest puncher in the heavyweight division, bar none.
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COTTO - MARGARITO ; THE CLASH OF SMASH
posted by Kathleen Holland on May 24, 2008
By Jim Amato
Every now and then a fight is made and you get an electric feeling of anticipation. You can envision the fight taking on so many different scenarios that you have trouble projecting a winner. There is almost one certainty. This fight should keep you glued to the edge of your seat. No Calzaghe - Hopkins let down here. These are two warriors staking claim, bragging rights if you will to being the best fighter today in the historic welterweight division. The winner of this fight will be mentioned in the same breath as the past greats who graced the division and rightfully so.
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ERNIE TERRELL ; A GIANT IN THE SHADOW OF ALI
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
Who was the second best heavyweight around during the first title reign of Muhammad Ali ? A strong argument could be made for Chicago's Ernie Terrell. Why ? Because he earned it. He was even good enough to hold the WBA version of the heavyweight title but everyone knew who the " real " champ was.
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Roberto Duran’s Miracle
posted by Kathleen Holland on May 20, 2008
By Ted Luzzi
Photo by Chris McGee
Wait long enough and persist against all odds and your dreams will be fufilled. Sure .
Ask Jerry Quarry about why he never won the heavyweight title, or the great Charley Burley why he never even got a title shot!
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THE RISE AND NEVER FALL OF GEORGE CHUVALO
posted by Kathleen Holland on May 18, 2008
By Jim Amato
For most of the 1960’s and part of the early 1970’s Canadian George Chuvalo was a mainstay in the talent rich heavyweight ratings. RING Magazine founder Nat Fleischer called George one of the most durable fighters he had ever seen. In his long distinguished career the rock jawed Chuvalo was NEVER off his feet. Amazing seeing the competition he faced. For the sake of space let’s start looking at George’s career from 1965 on.
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BOOK REVIEW ; " MY VIEW FROM THE CORNER " BY ANGELO DUNDEE WITH BERT RANDOLPH SUGAR. ( FOREWARD BY MUHAMMAD ALI ).
posted by Kathleen Holland on May 16, 2008
Image by Chris McGee
By Jim Amato
I started following boxing with the emergence of Cassius Clay in the early 1960's. Whether you liked Clay or not he must be given credit for revamping the business of boxing. He was to boxing what the Beatles were to music. Clay who would later become Muhammad Ali changed the face of the sport.
CLEVELAND'S CECIL SHORTS
posted by Kathleen Holland on May 13, 2008
By Jim Amato
I learn more about the history of boxing in the great city of Cleveland everyday. Talking to knowledgeable people in the area like Jerry Fitch, Gene Glen, Tom Huff, Jim Borgen and Sal Marino, well...I just learn something new all the time.
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Alexis Arguello-Julio Cesar Chavez
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
DREAM FIGHTS...You hear and read about them all the time. How would Ali have done against Dempsey, Louis or Marciano ? How would Roy Jones Jr. have fared against Bobby Foster ? Could Bernard Hopkins hold his own with Marvelous Marv ?
Continue reading " Alexis Arguello-Julio Cesar Chavez" »
Manuel Ramos - Mexican Heavyweight
posted by Kathleen Holland on May 11, 2008
By Jim Amato
When you think of Mexican fighters it is usually a tough little hombre like a Ruben Olivares, Vincente Saldivar or Julio Cesar Chavez. More often then not the better battles from Mexico scaled under 160lbs. In an exception to the rule during the mid 60’s to the early 70’s this country produced a pretty fair heavyweight. He fought two world champions and nine others that vied for the heavyweight crown. His name was Manuel Ramos. Although he lost almost as many as he won, the names on his resume are quite impressive.
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Carlos Quintana vs Paul Williams
posted by Kathleen Holland on May 8, 2008
By Ted Luzzi
Strategy, conditioning and a refocus on his career will be needed. He has the right team. I once interviewed his trainer George Peterson and found him to be a serious minded ex-cop full of pride and confidence in Williams. A man with both feet on the ground and unlikely to not realize William’s whole future in boxing is on the line here. Let’s assume Williams is highly conditioned and focused. How will he turn it all around against the new champion Quintana who out-boxed him so totally last time?
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A Tribute to Diego “Chico” Corrales – A True Legend
posted by Kathleen Holland on May 6, 2008
Photos by Chris McGee
Story by Billie Walker
It will soon be one year since the untimely death of one of boxing’s greatest ever. Diego “Chico” Corrales.
As May 7 approaches, one could only wish that that day in 2007 had never happened. It has left a gaping hole in so many hearts and a huge void in the boxing ring.
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EDDIE MACHEN ; He Met The Best
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
He was one of the best heavyweights of his era and possibly one of the best heavyweights to have never claimed the title. He fought the best of the late 1950's and 60's with a high degree of success.
Eddie Machen was born on July 15, 1932 in Redding, California and he entered the punch for pay ranks in 1955. Eddie won all eleven of his bouts during his maiden year including a knockout over highly regarded Howard King.
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BIG BUSTER MATHIS ; Has History Been Unkind To Him ?
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
At one time Buster Mathis Sr. of Grand Rapids, Michigan was the best amateur heavyweight in the world. This was in 1964 after he had twice defeated another promising amateur named Joe Frazier. He was on his way to the 1964 Olympics Games in Tokyo but an injury sidelined him. Frazier took his place as an alternate. Joe won the Gold Medal and the rest is history.
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CLEVELAND " BIG CAT " WILLIAMS
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
Cleveland "Big Cat" Williams was one of three gifted heavyweights from the 50's and 60's. Williams, Eddie Machen and Zora Folley were a trio of hard luck boxers who met tragic deaths after a career of frustration. Machen who lost a decision to Ernie Terrell in a 1965 W.B.A. title bout may or may not have committed suicide. Folley who was stopped in seven by Muhammad Ali in 1967 died of injuries suffered in a poolside accident.
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Respecting " Mister " Snipes
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
He came within an eyelash of upsetting the great Larry Holmes and winning the heavyweight championship of the world. For the better part of the 1980's he was ranked in the top ten. By the time his career ended he had crossed gloves with no less then eight men who at one time held the moniker, world champion.
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CHAMPIONS WASTELAND ; SHOZO SAIJO
posted by Kathleen Holland on April 29, 2008
By Jim Amato
Today with so many governing bodies and organizations around it has become very hard to take someones claim of " world champion " seriously. I mean there is the WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO, IBA and God knows how many more will pop up in the future. Split titles are not anything new to boxing but in days gone by it was a lot less complicated. As much as I hated it when either the WBA or the WBC " stripped " a champion of his crown for some bogus reason and then " made " their own champion. At least it kept the rift between just two claimants. In some cases there were much needed unification fights like Bob Foster and Vincente Rondon or Carlos Monzon against Rodrigo Valdez. There were also cases where a unification bout would have generated a lot of fan interest and cleared up the situation but they never came off. Some bouts that come to mind are Salvador Sanchez vs Eusebio Pedroza, John Conteh vs Victor Galindez and Carlos Palomino vs Pipino Cuevas. There is one bout that could have taken place in 1971 pitting two champions from Japan who each claimed a portion of the featherweight title. They were WBC title holder Kuniaki Shibata and his WBA rival, Shozo Saijo. Alas the fight never materialized. It seems that today Shibata is still remembered as the man who made great Vincente Saldivar surrender. What about poor Shozo Saijo ? He has been long forgotten outside of Japan and somehow that just does not seem quite fair.
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DOES " BOOM BOOM " BELONG ?
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
I like Ray Mancini who was recently inducted in to the World Boxing Hall Of Fame. It's always nice to see an Ohio kid make good so I'm happy for his induction. As you can see on that note I may be a little bias. Ray was good copy while he was boxing. He was exciting and he had charisma. Does he belong in the Hall ? Well... If he was not from Ohio, I would say no.
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Stan " Kitten " Hayward
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
Stan " Kitten " Hayward was just one of the many tough welterweights and middleweights that came out of Philadelphia in the 1960's and 70's. He battled the best his hometown had to offer and several other world contenders too.
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What Should Have Been But Never Was...
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
Pipino Cuevas has been inducted into the International Boxing Hall Of Fame. I struggled with this for a while. Did he really deserve to get in ? There are so many deserving former boxers that you can make a strong case for.
After wrestling with the matter of Pipino's induction I was able to come to terms with it. Why ? Because during his tenure as champion he was a Holy Terror !!! That is why !
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The Drama of a Big Fight
posted by Kathleen Holland on April 24, 2008
By Ted Luzzi
There is nothing else in all sport that even come close to the drama of a big fight in which the winner and outcome are very much in doubt. For weeks opinions rage from all sides as to the winner and why. Egos and tempers rise from the fans as their favorite is either mocked or cannonized before the fight.
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De la Hoya-Forbes, Weighing Oscar’s Vulnerability
posted by Kathleen Holland on April 20, 2008
Photos by Chris McGee
By Brett Mauren
In his third fight in as many years, Oscar De la Hoya again finds himself in the eye of the storm that boxing knows as the Mayweather family. The next chapter to the never ending story pits De La Hoya and longtime trainer Floyd Mayweather Sr. attempting to set the stage for a Fall rematch against pound for pound kingpin Floyd “Money” Mayweather. No stranger to the Mayweather family, Steve Forbes will serve as Oscar’s opponent on May 3, and though the world may see it as a tune up, both fighters can attest that may be a dangerous word.
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Calzaghe wins the title from Hopkins!
posted by Kathleen Holland
Story by Ted Luzzi
Photos by Chris McGee
Joe Calzaghe won the worlds lightheavy title from Bernard Hopkins tonight at the Thomas and Mack center in Las Vegas! It was a historic event with Calzaghe becoming the first Brit to win that title in many years. Freddie Mills claimed the title back in the forties and John Conte claimed half the title in the eighties but Calzaghe has a stronger claim than either and is now consitered the champion by the vast majority.
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CALZAGHE SLAPS HIS WAY TO A SLOPPY VICTORY
posted by Kathleen Holland
Story by Jim Amato
Photos by Chris McGee
Joe Calzaghe is still undefeated ( 45-0 ) and now has Ring Magazine's endorsement of being the " best " light heavyweight in the world after slapping an aged Bernard Hopkins enough to win a split twelve round decision. Disappointed ? I know I was. What was projected to be a candidate for " Fight of the year " turned out to be the farce of the year. Other then Bernard catching Joe coming with a nice right hand and dropping him in the first round, there was little excitement to me. Calzaghe did what I thought he would do. He just plain out hustled Hopkins. Bernard can no longer fight at that kind of pace. Calzaghe out landed Hopkins almost 2 to 1 but not once did he even phase Hopkins other then a few low blows. There was a lot of wrestling and clinching and referee Joe Cortez earned his pay that night.
Continue reading "CALZAGHE SLAPS HIS WAY TO A SLOPPY VICTORY" »
ALFIO RIGHETTI
posted by Kathleen Holland on April 18, 2008
By Jim Amato
Who was the best Italian born and raised heavyweight of my time ( 1965 to present ) ? Was it Lorenzo Zanon who gave Jerry Quarry and Ken Norton trouble before being stopped ? Zanon also unsuccessfully challenged Larry Holmes for the title.
Continue reading "ALFIO RIGHETTI" »
Will Hopkins Beat Father Time or Will Calzaghe Clean His Clock ?
posted by Kathleen Holland on April 17, 2008
Story by Jim Amato
The big fight between Bernard Hopkins and undefeated Joe Calzaghe is coming up in April. I can't wait for this one. As dominant as Hopkins was at middleweight I've either under rated him or I just did not appriciate him. I stiil don't rate him among the twenty best middleweights of all time. He's pretty darn close though. I feel he may have moved to light heavyweight a couple of years too late. He struggled against Jermain Taylor twice in his last two middleweight contests.
Continue reading "Will Hopkins Beat Father Time or Will Calzaghe Clean His Clock ?" »
Great Boxing Weekend
posted by Kathleen Holland on April 11, 2008
Story by Jim Amato
Well this weekend is a fight fan's dream with four major fights taking place Saturday on two networks. Showtime will feature four of the best light heavyweights in the world pairing off in what hopes to be the prelude to a unification fight later this year. Clinton Woods will take on Antonio Tarver and Chad Dawson will be severely tested by the " Road Warrior ", Glencoffe Johnson
Continue reading "Great Boxing Weekend" »
Jim Amato's Commentary: Today's Heavyweights
posted by Kathleen Holland on April 10, 2008
Story by Jim Amato
I was in a bad mood today...Why am I mad ? Well I had a lousy day at work. I have a strained relationship with my girlfriend. I'm moving from my house to a one bedroom apartment that nobody will ever compare to a room at the Ritz. I have money going out about twice as fast as it's coming in. BUT...What really pisses me off is the state of the heavyweight division today. In a word it Sucks.
Continue reading "Jim Amato's Commentary: Today's Heavyweights" »
A Short on Shibata
posted by Kathleen Holland on April 5, 2008
Story by Jim Amato
Kuniaki Shibata was one of Japan's most under rated fighters of all time. He was crowned three times as a world champion in two different weight divisions. This was in the 1970's when boxers had to go the "real" championship distance of fifteen rounds.There were only two governing bodies back then, the WBA and the WBC.
Continue reading "A Short on Shibata" »
Cleveland Lightweight Tommy Salem
posted by Kathleen Holland
Story by Jim Amato
The proud city of Cleveland has produced their share of notable boxers. All time greats like Johnny Kilbane, Jimmy Bivins, Joey Maxim, etc...helped to put Cleveland on the fistic map. One fine fighter from Cleveland's gloried past has kind of slipped through the cracks of deserved recognition. He was a rough and tumble lightweight who campaigned in the 1950's. Although he was not blessed with great power, he was able to win twenty of his twenty eight fights.
Continue reading "Cleveland Lightweight Tommy Salem" »
When Dempsey KO’d Sharkey and Whipped Father Time
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Mike Dunn
It shouldn't have ended the way it did. Not at that juncture of their careers.
In July of 1927, aspiring heavyweight contender Jack Sharkey should have had his way with former champ Jack Dempsey. He should have either knocked out the aging former champ or at least beat him by decision. He didn't do either. And because of Sharkey's failure, the rematch between Dempsey and Gene Tunney took place that September at Chicago's expansive Solder Field. The bout between Dempsey and Tunney produced what was to be for many, many years the greatest live gate ever to witness a boxing match, and produced one of the sport's signature moments, the famed Long Count.
Continue reading "When Dempsey KO’d Sharkey and Whipped Father Time" »
Cleveland Middleweight Jackie Keough
posted by Kathleen Holland on March 29, 2008
Story by Jim Amato
When I attended my first meeting of the Ohio State Former Boxers And Associates organization in the early 1990's I was first greeted by a neatly dressed gray haired man. He was not a big man but he had a rugged look to him. He was very friendly though. We shook hands and told me his name was Jackie. I never saw Jackie again but I later found out he was Jackie Keough a tough mddleweight fringe contender in the early 1950's.
Continue reading "Cleveland Middleweight Jackie Keough" »
Amato Boxing Notes: Pavlik - Trinidad?
posted by Kathleen Holland on March 24, 2008
Story by Jim Amato
I've been away for a while so this is the first I've heard of this. I heard mention of a possible Kelly Pavlik-Felix Trinidad match later this year. My sources in the Youngstown area have told me it's Gary Lockett this summer then probably Arthur Abraham in the Fall for Kelly. A Pavlik-Trinidad match would sell well in New York and I do believe there would be a respectable pay-per-view audience to line the promoter's pockets as well as the fighters.
Continue reading "Amato Boxing Notes: Pavlik - Trinidad?" »
A Fight I Would Have Liked to See: Ken Buchanan vs Mando Ramos
posted by Kathleen Holland on March 17, 2008
Story by Jim Amato
In the time that I have followed boxing there are many matches that could have happened and should have happened. Some like Archie Moore-Sugar Ray Robinson and Jake LaMotta-Rocky Graziano were before my era. They might have been thrilling matches but for one reason or another they just never came off. One from " my era ", the early 1970's was Ken Buchanan against Mando Ramos. Mr. Ramos was one of my early favorites. He was just a few years older then me when he won the lightweight title in his second try versus the talented Carlos Teo Cruz.
Continue reading "A Fight I Would Have Liked to See: Ken Buchanan vs Mando Ramos" »
When Henry Cooper Nearly Derailed Cassius Clay's Title Hopes
posted by Kathleen Holland on February 28, 2008
By Mike Dunn
British boxing legend Henry Cooper is still remembered for it. Nearly 45 years after the fact, Cooper remains a beloved figure in his native England and when fans reminisce about old ’Enery, they talk about the potent left hook he landed to the jaw of 21-year-old Cassius Clay. And they talk about what might have been ...
Continue reading "When Henry Cooper Nearly Derailed Cassius Clay's Title Hopes" »
Interview With Nick Casal
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Matt Yanofsky
I had the opportunity to sit down with junior welterweight prospect and crowd pleaser Nick Casal 16-2 (12 KO’s). Casal hopes to get back in the win column this Saturday on the Israel Vazquez Rafael Marquez undercard. Casal, who fell after short in two of his last three fights, will be taking on James Wayka.
Continue reading " Interview With Nick Casal" »
When Loughran Survived The Assassin's Bombs
posted by Kathleen Holland on February 27, 2008
By Mike Dunn
It was December of 1927. Tommy Loughran had just laid claim to the undisputed light-heavyweight championship with a fast 15-round decision over slick Jimmy Slattery, the National Boxing Association champion. The fight had taken place at Madison Square Garden.
Continue reading "When Loughran Survived The Assassin's Bombs" »
Iran Barkley Uncensored Interview Part II
posted by Kathleen Holland on February 19, 2008
By David Selwyn
D.S.: No sex before a boxing match was a custom for many years with most fighters. Did you have sex while training for a fight?
I.B.: There is a myth to the sex thing. If you do have sex weeks or months before a fight it’s no good to have it. You know what I’m saying. All that does is take more out of you when you get into a tough fight. You don’t think about the fight, you think about the sex that you had and it drains you more. My advice is not to have sex if you are serious about boxing.
Continue reading "Iran Barkley Uncensored Interview Part II" »
Iran “The Blade “ Barkley Uncensored Interview --Part 1
posted by Kathleen Holland on February 18, 2008
By David Selwyn
Iran “The Blade” Barkley is a five-time world champion who made his name with a third round knockout win over Thomas Hearns in Las Vegas in 1988. Before he fought Hearns, the champion’s trainer Emanuel Steward knew Barkley had the attitude to be dangerous. “He’s not that skillful, but he just don’t give a damn”. Sure enough, battered and on the brink of defeat, Barkley found the right hand to drop Hearns on his back.
Continue reading " Iran “The Blade “ Barkley Uncensored Interview --Part 1" »
Team Diva-Part 3
posted by Kathleen Holland on January 29, 2008
By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva
Jonathan and I have been discussing the sweet science on and off for a few years now. I first contacted him in regard to what elements go into the making of a good trainer for my boxing novel. Jonathan was a good source of data since he has successfully coached his 3 sons in the sport.
Continue reading "Team Diva-Part 3" »
Counting Down to "The Punisher’s" First Title Defense
posted by Kathleen Holland on January 22, 2008
Story by Brett Mauren
2007 saw the emergence of several stars in the squared circle; Kelly Pavlik, Michael Katsidis, and Chad Dawson are just a few in the newly formulating constellation of boxing, but one of the brightest of those stars was born this summer at the Home Depot Center, A 6’1 welterweight by the name of Paul Williams.
Continue reading "Counting Down to "The Punisher’s" First Title Defense" »
The Heart Of A Hero
posted by Kathleen Holland on January 17, 2008
By Robert Argent
Joe Calzaghe of New Bridge wales is a fighter I believe should now be honoured as the best pound for pound fighter in the world today.
Not only has he cleaned up almost the entire Super Middleweight division winning the ring magazine and the WBC,IBF,WBA, and WBO world titles, he has also remained undefeated in the professional ranks with an incredible record of 44 wins, 32 of which are Kos or stoppages.
Continue reading "The Heart Of A Hero" »
Phil Williams Steadily Turning Heads in Minnesota
posted by Kathleen Holland on January 7, 2008
By Brett Mauren
In the Minnesota tundra there are very few things that could be considered hot, but as it has across the world in the last 12 months, boxing has ignited in Minnesota. With a collection of exciting prospects sparking that fire, a name that has caught the attention of many Minnesota boxing fans is light heavyweight Phil Williams.
Continue reading " Phil Williams Steadily Turning Heads in Minnesota" »
Jose Napoles ; Was He Too Good For His Own Good ?
posted by Kathleen Holland on January 4, 2008
By Jim Amato
The late 1960's and early 1970's produced some of the finest, most
dominant champions ever. While Ali, Frazier and Foreman were taking turns
ruling the heavyweights, other divisions found themselves under the supreme
rule of a certain superior boxer.
Continue reading " Jose Napoles ; Was He Too Good For His Own Good ?" »
"Ring Of Fire" Brings Emile Back To The Top.
posted by Kathleen Holland on January 3, 2008
By Jim Amato
I just had the absolute pleasure of viewing "Ring Of Fire"; A documentary on the great career of former world champion Emile Griffith. The main focus was the effect the death of opponent Benny "Kid" Paret in the final chapter of their exciting trilogy had on Emile. In reality it was more then that. It showed what a great fighter and even greater man Emile Griffith was and is. I think that it has been forgotten what a superb boxer Emile Griffith was. He was one of the best welterweights and middleweights of all time. His record is a "Who's Who" of boxing. What a roster of top shelf competition he met.
Continue reading ""Ring Of Fire" Brings Emile Back To The Top." »
Fighting back: Wife's illness doesn't knock Guerrero out of the ring
posted by mightygloves.com on January 2, 2008
Greg Beacham/Associated Press
GILROY, Calif. -- Robert Guerrero's world is calm during his dawn training runs in the Diablo Range's rambling foothills.
Continue reading "Fighting back: Wife's illness doesn't knock Guerrero out of the ring" »
Rodrigo Valdez: He was "Badder Then Bennie"
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
Despite his recent loss to Jermain Taylor the respect for Bernard Hopkins
and his addition to the legacy of great Philly fighters has not waned. The
great city of Philadelphia has produced an array of world-class
middleweights over the years. Hopkins has brought great pride to the long
line of Philly middleweights who came before him: Tough guys like Stanley
"Kitten" Hayward, Eugene "Cyclone" Hart, Bobby "Boogaloo" Watts, Willie "The
Worm" Monroe and possibly the toughest of them all, "Bad" Bennie Briscoe.
Continue reading " Rodrigo Valdez: He was "Badder Then Bennie"" »
Why the Post Title Patterson was Better
posted by Kathleen Holland on December 31, 2007
By Jim Amato
Poor Floyd Patterson. Everyone loves him but not everyone respects him as a fighter or champion. You rarely here his name tossed about when the topic of all time great heavyweights is brought up. What a shame !
Who is to blame for the heartbreaking oversight ? People tend to forget that Patterson thrashed Archie Moore much more impressively then Marciano did the night he became the youngest man ever to win the heavyweight crown . Still when a " Dream Match " between Marciano and Patterson is talked about, Floyd is quickly dismissed... Simply put, Rocky had the PUNCH and Floyd did not have the whiskers.
Continue reading "Why the Post Title Patterson was Better" »
Jose Manuel Ibar Urtain ;
posted by Kathleen Holland on December 29, 2007
By Jim Amato
A major player in the heavyweight title picture in the early 1970's. The native of Spain turned pro in 1968. He was the rage in Europe winning his first 30 fights by knockout including a win over Peter Weiland to capture the European heavyweight title. Finally rugged German Jurgen Blin took Urtain the fifteen round route but lost the verdict. Urtain's first loss was by a low blow disqualification to Alfredo Vogrig.
Continue reading "Jose Manuel Ibar Urtain ;" »
Cleveland's Bivins Battled The Best.
posted by Kathleen Holland on December 28, 2007
By Jim Amato
Although he was born in Dry Branch, Georgia it was from Cleveland, Ohio that Jimmy Bivins made history. He was a major player in putting Cleveland on the boxing map during the 1940's and 50's. He may well have been the best heavyweight and light heavyweight to ever come out of this great boxing town.
Continue reading " Cleveland's Bivins Battled The Best." »
George Plimpton George Plimpton
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
George Plimpton was one of my favorite authors. He was a pioneer in modern sports writing. He put the "hands" on hands on. He went out and did what so many of us wish we could have done...he jumped in with both feet. He pitched to Willie Mays. He sparred with Archie Moore. He took snaps in a game with NFL players.
Continue reading "George Plimpton George Plimpton" »
ALEXIS ARGUELLO ; " Talk Softly But Carry A Big Stick "
posted by Kathleen Holland on December 26, 2007
By Jim Amato
One of the best pure punchers of my generation was Alexis Arguello. He was aptly nicknamed " The Explosive Thin Man ". He was tall and rail thin but his punch could stop an opponent dead in his tracks.
Continue reading "ALEXIS ARGUELLO ; " Talk Softly But Carry A Big Stick "" »
VIDEO - Kermit Cintron Challenges Margarito
posted by Kathleen Holland on December 25, 2007
Let's Get A Movie...
posted by Kathleen Holland on December 24, 2007
By Jim Amato
Since this is the holiday season you may have some time off of work to relax and watch a few movies. There are several classic boxing movies that are available at your local video store to fill a void left by a lack of live boxing action.
Continue reading "Let's Get A Movie..." »
BOOK REVIEW : BOXING IS MY SANCTUARY : A Collection Of Essays by Theodore R. ( Ted ) Sares.
posted by Kathleen Holland on December 22, 2007
By Jim Amato
If you like boxing...If you love boxing...Then you will love this book. Ted " The Bull " Sares has a way of taking the sport of boxing to it's inner core. Stripped down, mano y mano. Ask no quarter, give no quarter.
WHY BOB FOSTER WAS FEARED...
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
Bob Foster has to be considered one of the most explosive hitters of all time. To me that is a very rational statement. If you lived in the Bob Foster era you knew the aura that he brought into the ring with him. If they feared him they might have a chance of surviving. If you were dumb enough to be brave you usually walked out of the ring with your head in yor hands.
Continue reading " WHY BOB FOSTER WAS FEARED..." »
THEY COULD HAVE BEEN CLASSICS
posted by Kathleen Holland on December 21, 2007
By Jim Amato
In April of 1967, Jimmy Ellis pounded out a fifteen round decision over Jerry Quarry to win the vacant W.B.A. heavyweight championship. In March of 1968, Joe Frazier halted Buster Mathis to win heavyweight title recognition in New York State. Two months later Bob Foster knocked out the great Dick Tiger to capture the light heavyweight crown. Foster felt the big money was in the heavyweight division and he began to challenge the champions. Frazier actively defended his title turning back Manuel Ramos, Jerry Quarry, Oscar Bonevena, and Dave Zyglewicz. Ellis on the other hand made only one defense, a disputed verdict over ex-champion Floyd Patterson. Proposed matches for Jimmy against Henry Cooper and Gregorio Peralta never materialized. By the time Ellis met Frazier in February of 1970 to unify the crown, the ring rust had settled in. After Frazier destroyed Ellis he would go on to meet Foster later on that year with disastrous results for Bob.
Continue reading "THEY COULD HAVE BEEN CLASSICS" »
Former Champs Marvin Hagler and Emile Griffith Hanging Out Together
posted by mightygloves.com
Image by David Selwyn
Mitchell Rose: The Man Who Stopped Butterbean And Tangled With Tyson Now Writes A Book
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Matt Yanofsky
I had the opportunity to catch up with an interesting boxing figure by the name of Mitchell Rose. Rose, a former Golden Gloves champion became the buzz of boxing following his shocking stoppage win over boxing cult phenomenon Butterbean. Rose is currently selling his book titled The Man That Beat Butterbean Now Has To Beat These City Streets.
JIMMY ELLIS
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
It's too bad that the cruiserweight division was not around in the 60's and 70's. Many fine boxers scaled under 190 pounds and gave creditable performances against bigger men. Doug Jones is an example as he came close to upsetting Cassius Clay in 1963. Doug had lost in 1962 to Harold Johnson for the light heavyweight title. In 1965, he lost to Ernie Terrell for WBA Heavyweight crown. Back then there was no middle ground. If you weighed over 175 pounds, you fought heavyweights, period.
Continue reading "JIMMY ELLIS" »
SEVERAL REASONS WHY HANK KAPLAN IS GOING TO BE IN THE HALL OF FAME
posted by mightygloves.com on December 17, 2007
By Jim Amato
Hank Kaplan is a wonderful man. I had the great pleasure of meeting Hank at the IBHOF in June of 1998. Since that time we have stayed in periodic contact. I was introduced to Hank through a mutual friend, Jim Borgen of Warren, Ohio. Through Jim I learned just how much Hank Kaplan has done for the sport of boxing.
Continue reading "SEVERAL REASONS WHY HANK KAPLAN IS GOING TO BE IN THE HALL OF FAME" »
A CASE FOR COBB
posted by Kathleen Holland on December 15, 2007
By Jim Amato
Who was the best white heavyweight of the 80’s? Gerry Cooney? Maybe, but doubtful. Gerry had the big punch but his chin was suspect. Also Cooney never benefited by being tested on his way up. He may well have been the best packaged and most protected heavyweight title challenger in boxing history. No, for my money Randy “Tex” Cobb was the king of the white heavies in the 80’s. In all Tex met five world champions and several to contenders.
Continue reading "A CASE FOR COBB" »
" I PITY THE POOR FOOL": Bob Foster -vs - Vincente Rondon
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
Bob Foster won the light heavyweight championship of the world on May 24th, 1968. He would dominate the division until 1974. Only once during that time did Bob lose possession of his title. Well in reality it was taken from him. The World Boxing Association in their divine wisdom stripped Bob of his title recognition. In their eyes the winner of a bout between long time contender Jimmy Dupree and Venezuela's Vincente Rondon would be declared the new WBA champion. Needless to say Mr. Foster was not happy about this situation and it was not wise to make Bob angry.
Continue reading "" I PITY THE POOR FOOL": Bob Foster -vs - Vincente Rondon" »
BEAU JACK ; A TRUE ALL TIME GREAT
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
The name Sidney Walker would not be very familiar to most fight fans. Mention the name Beau Jack and you would get a much different reaction. They are one and the same. Beau Jack was one of the most exciting fighters of the 1940's and early 50's.
Continue reading "BEAU JACK ; A TRUE ALL TIME GREAT" »
RAFAEL HERRERA ; A Fine Champion
posted by Kathleen Holland on December 14, 2007
By Jim Amato
He was born to humble beginnings on January 7, 1945 in Jalisco, Mexico. He would become a professional boxer at the age of eighteen. For years he fought fellow novices, losing some but winning more. He was making a name for himself though. In 1966 he climbed up the ladder with a win over rugged Memin Vega. Two fights later he drew with Geraldo Luna.
Continue reading "RAFAEL HERRERA ; A Fine Champion" »
EDDIE PERKINS ON HIS WAY TO THE HALL OF FAME
posted by Kathleen Holland on December 12, 2007
By Jim Amato
In a career that spanned from 1956 to 1975, Eddie Perkins engaged in 99 professional fights. He won seventy five of those contests. He met opponents in over twenty different countries. He truly was a " world " champion.
Ediie lost three of his first five bouts but rallied to win seven straight. In 1958 he lost to Cleveland, Ohio's Cecil Shorts. He stopped Shorts in a rematch and then he outscored rugged Franke Ryff. In 1959 Eddie won a decision over Paul Armstead but lost to Carl Hubbard and was then halted by Al Urbina. It would be the only stoppage loss of Eddie's career.
Continue reading " EDDIE PERKINS ON HIS WAY TO THE HALL OF FAME" »
INJURED ROBBIE LAWLER’S TITLE DEFENSE WITH KALA HOLOHE HOSE CANCELLED
posted by Kathleen Holland
LOS ANGELES (Dec. 11, 2007) – This Saturday’s fight between EliteXC and ICON Sport middleweight champion Robbie Lawler and Kala Kolohe Hose was officially cancelled Monday. The announcement was made during a late afternoon press conference in Honolulu.
Continue reading "INJURED ROBBIE LAWLER’S TITLE DEFENSE WITH KALA HOLOHE HOSE CANCELLED" »
Did Duane BOBICK Get A Fair Shake ???
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
The heavyweight division of the late 60's and early 70's was one of the most talent laden and competetive of all time. It gave us Ali and Frazier. Foreman, Norton, Shavers, Quarry, Lyle and Ellis. The list is almost endless. Bonavena, Middleton, "Blue" Lewis, Mac Foster, Buster Mathis, Chuvalo, Thad Spencer, Leotis Martin...
In the late 70's former Olympian Duane Bobick emerged as a legitimate contender.Although kayoed by Teo Stevenson in the Olympics, Duane was guided through the pro ranks by "Smokin' Joe Frazier himself.
Continue reading "Did Duane BOBICK Get A Fair Shake ???" »
“Tecate” - Fighting to be Number One
posted by Kathleen Holland on December 8, 2007
The New "Tecate Girls" from the Univision series, "Republica Deportiva", Elizabeth Lopez, Cori Schumacher and Elizabeth Arias
Story by Kathleen Holland
Photos by Chris McGee
2007 has been a very good year for boxing. Fans around the world saw a new era develop right before their eyes. A great deal of credit goes to Oscar De La Hoya’s “Golden Boy Promotions” and their new partner for 2007, “Tecate” Brand Cerveza.
Continue reading "“Tecate” - Fighting to be Number One" »
The Best Undefeated Fighters
posted by Kathleen Holland on November 28, 2007
By Matt Yanofsky
Boxing has its fair share of undefeated fighters most however have not been tested. Even with the southern circuit helping build up records of plenty young fighters {see JD Chapman, and David Rodriguez} there are some world class fighters who have yet to taste defeat. Here are the 15 best fighters in the world pound for pound with out a loss along with 10 more who are worth an honorable mention.
Continue reading "The Best Undefeated Fighters" »
posted by mightygloves.com on November 11, 2007
Courtesy of Jim Amato
Doug Jones
posted by Kathleen Holland on November 9, 2007
By- Jim Amato
What do you say about a fighter who was good enough to challenge for world title recognition in two different weight classes? What do you say about a fighter who holds knockout victories over former world champion and Hall Of Famers Carl "Bobo" Olsen and Bob Foster?
Continue reading " Doug Jones" »
One "Tap" Away from the Title
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Jim Amato
When most people think of great middleweights from Ohio during the 70's they usually focus on one time title challenger and 1968 Olympic Gold Medal winner, Ronnie Harris. As good as Ronnie was he failed miserably in his only title shot against mediocre champion Hugo Corro. At least he received a shot at the coveted crown.
Continue reading "One "Tap" Away from the Title" »
Cuban Great ; Kid Chocolate.
posted by Kathleen Holland on November 7, 2007
By Jim amato
He was born Eligio Sardinias Montalbo on January 6, 1910 in Cerro, Havana, Cuba. He launched his professional boxing career in 1927 and would participate in over 150 bouts in a career that ended in 1938
He was nicknamed the " Cuban Bon Bon " and during the 1930's he was one of the best drawing cards in New York. His flashy personality and even flashier style in the ring made him a real crowd pleaser.
Continue reading "Cuban Great ; Kid Chocolate." »
Marvis Frazier - The Lost Son
posted by Kathleen Holland on November 4, 2007
Story by Jim Amato
The camera rolls and the highlight clip begins. It shows a young, undefeated but green Marvis Frazier dancing while taunting heavyweight champion Larry Holmes. In the blink of an eye Holmes unloads a right hand sucker shot that sends Marvis backward and into a sprawled position on the canvas. Marvis showing he is a true Frazier gamely arises. Quickly Holmes pins him in a corner and pummels him unmercifully till the ref intervenes. The look on Frazier's face isn't so much a look of pain. It is a bewildered, shellshocked look like Ken Norton had after Gerry Cooney had worked him over in a corner. A look that said "What the hell hit me ?"
Continue reading "Marvis Frazier - The Lost Son" »
WHAT IF ? NINO -vs- VITO...
posted by Kathleen Holland on November 3, 2007
By Jim Amato
What would have happened if two of the best Italian born middleweight
champions would have squared of against each other ?
Nino Benvenuti, 5"11" from Trieste against Vito Antuofermo, 5' 71/2"
from Bari. The slick boxing Nino and the rugged, brawling Vito. The perfect
boxer -vs- slugger match up.
Continue reading "WHAT IF ? NINO -vs- VITO..." »
Former IBA Champ, Bobby Gunn Calls Out Current IBO Champ, Antonio Tarver
posted by Kathleen Holland on October 16, 2007
By Kathleen Holland
Former IBA Cruiserweight champion, Bobby Gunn (18-3, 15 KOs) is ready, willing and chomping at the bit to fight IBO Light Heavyweight champion, Antonio Tarver, (25-4, 18 KOs). Tarver is scheduled to fight Danny Green at Foxwoods Casino in Mashantucket, CT on December 1.
Mightygloves.com brings you the following exclusive interview with Bobby Gunn
Continue reading "Former IBA Champ, Bobby Gunn Calls Out Current IBO Champ, Antonio Tarver" »
Bobby Gunn
posted by Kathleen Holland on October 10, 2007
Courtesy of Knockout Publicity
Born in America and Raised in Canada into a fighting family, Bobby Gunn personifies what many would refer to as a graduate from the "School of Hard Knocks". His life has been one struggle after another, but through it all he has maintained a solid belief in himself and persevered against all odds. Very early on, Bobby was introduced to boxing as his first and only sport. It soon became a lifestyle. He started boxing at the tender young age of 6 and has been in the ring fighting ever since. Growing up, Bobby lived a truly nomadic lifestyle, traveling and residing all over the US and Canada. Bobby was a very successful amateur compiling a 256-11 record. Bobby also won many amateur tournaments and defeating future pro stars like Mads Larsen, Oba Carr, and Syd Vanderpool.
Continue reading "Bobby Gunn" »
Jose Torres
posted by Kathleen Holland on October 9, 2007
By Jim Amato
There was a time in the mid 60's that revolved around who would be Muhammad Ali's next opponent. The former Cassius Clay was chewing up and spitting out challengers with alarming ease. His hold on the heavyweight title was reaching the point of fan boredom. Few could see any serious contenders on the horizon.
Then a tremendous boxer-puncher of Puerto Rican heritage exploded on to the scene. He was really a blown up middleweight with an extensive and successful amateur background, but boy could he fight !
Continue reading "Jose Torres" »
Evander Holyfield: Once and Future King
posted by Kathleen Holland on October 8, 2007
By: Brett Mauren
Photo by Chris McGee
There was a time when the term heavyweight champion of the world bared an entitlement to bragging rights as the baddest man on earth. Very few champions embodied that role better than the likes of Evander Holyfield.
Continue reading "Evander Holyfield: Once and Future King" »
Who’s Brave Enough to Fight Bobby Gunn?
posted by mightygloves.com
By Kathleen Holland, Mightygloves.com
Photos courtesy of Knockout Publicity
Robert “Bobby” Gunn was born in a small town in Virginia on December 25, 1973. Bobby came from a boxing background. His grandfather and several of his cousins were well respected fighters. He had his first amateur fight at the age of 7. Bobby lived in Canada during his amateur career.
Continue reading "Who’s Brave Enough to Fight Bobby Gunn?" »
Sonny Liston, Part One
posted by Kathleen Holland
By Ted Luzzi
Back in the sixties there was a popular song that had the lyrics "you’re a split personality, and in reality, both of them are you". That s