MightyGloves.com

Ready or not, Here I come.Interview with Jaffa Ballogou

posted by Kathleen Holland on July 16, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing DIva

Jaffa " The African Assassin" Ballogou is a fighter on a mission. His mission is to make some serious noise in the light heavyweight division. He possesses the drive and determination to do so. Who, you might ask is Jaffa Ballogou? Jaffa is a heavy handed southpaw living in NYC boxing out of the Church Street Boxing gym via Togo, Africa. He is also a former WBC Super Middleweight International Champion and WBA title challenger. With a record of 45-6-0 ( 39 ko's) you have to wonder why we haven't heard his name within the boxing community. Well, I decided to find out the answer to that very simple question.
Speaking to Jaffa by phone was an extraordinary pleasure. He is well-spoken, enthusiastic and exhibits a genuine love for the sport of boxing. He is extremely focused with only one goal in mind which is to make his over due comeback ( through no fault of his own) into the elite ranks of the light heavyweights. He understands what he is up against and is prepared to rise to any challenge set in front of him. "I am ready. I will fight anyone. Bring them to me." said Jaffa with authority.
He knows he has the goods-his knockout record speaks for itself. So, once again we come to the question of why don't more opponents, promoters, fans and big wigs know about the "mystery" that is Jaffa?
Could it be that maybe they are intimidated by his raw power and choose to look the other way? That deduction is probably on the money and yet it is also a bit sad because in my opinion, Jaffa has the combined talent of an Ali and a Tyson just waiting to explode on the boxing stage but no one wants to take a risk and get in the ring with him.
Let's talk to Jaffa and see what he has to say about his past, present and future in boxing:

Continue reading "Ready or not, Here I come.Interview with Jaffa Ballogou" »

Pounding on the Glass Ceiling Interview with Amy Green Part 2 The Publicist and Women's Boxing

posted by Kathleen Holland on July 8, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Continuing my discussion with Amy Green, (boxing writer, publicist and champion for women's boxing) our focus will be on publicity and women's boxing. Amy has recently done some publicity work for an MMA event but the majority of her time is devoted to publicity for women's boxing which was evident in her many long hours of work for the biggest PPV event in women's boxing history, the "Finally" card just last month.
I am happy to acknowledge I was on the receiving end of some aspects of all her hard work as she provided me with access to 4 phone interviews with some major players in that exciting event. These "getting to know" visits with the best female boxers around has definitely opened my eyes to the opposite side of boxing's element. In the future and with Amy's assistance I hope to interview more women boxers and to continue my support of them in the sport of fisticuffs.

Continue reading "Pounding on the Glass Ceiling Interview with Amy Green Part 2 The Publicist and Women's Boxing" »

Knocking on the Glass Ceiling: Interview with Amy Green Part One- The Writer and The Woman

posted by Kathleen Holland on July 4, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

The best interviews are the ones in which an interviewee goes toe to toe with the writer and let's it all hang out regardless of what happens to be en vogue at the moment. Enter stage right, Amy Green, boxing writer, publicist,champion of women's boxing and friend who afforded me this insightful, enjoyable and unforgettable interview.

Continue reading "Knocking on the Glass Ceiling: Interview with Amy Green Part One- The Writer and The Woman" »

From the Neutral Corner Interview with Doug Ward

posted by Kathleen Holland on July 2, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Recently, the majority of my time for mightygloves has been spent interviewing various boxers, which is something I'm very passionate about and tremendously enjoy doing. Just refer to me as the Barbara Walters of Boxing. I love interviewing boxers and never seem to get enough of finding out what is inside the working of a boxer's mind and how real a person they are as opposed to what is seen in the ring.

Continue reading "From the Neutral Corner Interview with Doug Ward" »

A Book Review: American Son Oscar De La Hoya with Steve Springer

posted by Kathleen Holland

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

It will come as no surprise to anyone who knows me or reads my articles on this site that my favorite boxer in the world is Oscar De La Hoya. Oscar is the most celebrated fighter in the history of boxing with winning 6 world titles at 130,135,140,147,154, and 160 as well as Olympic gold during the span of his career. In my opinion, he has definitely engraved a positive mark upon the sport of boxing.

Continue reading "A Book Review: American Son Oscar De La Hoya with Steve Springer" »

Boxing's Hot 50

posted by Kathleen Holland on June 23, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

What exactly is hot? According to Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Hot is defined as, " having a relatively high temperature." which will definitely happen when feasting your eyes on any or all of these boxers who have made my list. I can guarantee they will spike your body temperature a few degrees and it's all good. Each one on this list can radiate a sensation of heat, burning, and scolding whether it be inside or outside of the squared circle.

Continue reading "Boxing's Hot 50" »

Boxing Diva's Summer Reading

posted by Kathleen Holland

Becoming Holyfield
By Evander Holyfield with Lee Gruenfeld

Evander "Real Deal" Holyfield( 42-9-2 (27KOs)) has always been one of my all time favorite boxers. Not just because he is a great fighter ( History's only 4 time world heavyweight champ) or because he's one of the "big boys" the weight class I happen to like the most but because of the type of person he is inside and outside of the ring. His character, grace under pressure, dedication and devotion to the sport make him a role model for many of today's up and coming boxers.

Continue reading "Boxing Diva's Summer Reading" »

A Day In The Life of Bobby Gunn

posted by Kathleen Holland on June 15, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

One thing you can never accuse Bobby Gunn of being is lazy. Bobby Gunn ( Former IBA Cruiserweight champ and Light Heavyweight challenger) is a well tuned boxing machine and all one needs to see proof of this is a peek into his rough and tough training regimen. Be it home in New Jersey or at an out of the way training camp Bobby is always training. Training to Bobby comes as natural as breathing does to the rest of us. He never actually stops training and forget about a vacation, playing hooky or taking shortcuts during his time at the gym it just won't happen. When he does take a day off, it is usually Sunday but even then his mind is still racing with thoughts of what he has to do and work on the next time he's in the gym. I have never known someone so dedicated to their craft that they literally live and breathe it 24 hours a day the way that Bobby does. This is a true example of an exceptional work ethic and more boxers would be advised to follow suit if they desire to be world champions.

Continue reading "A Day In The Life of Bobby Gunn" »

Outrageous,Outspoken and not willing to be Outdone An Interview with Paulie Malignaggi

posted by Kathleen Holland on June 11, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Love him or hate him...he's just Paulie. Yes, he is the IBF Jr. Welterweight champ of the world with an impressive record of 25-1-0 and he's also anything but a choir boy. The way he comes across to most of the boxing community be it, blunt, outlandish or cocky with an oversized personality is just one side of Paulie Malignaggi there are many sides yet to be discovered if you take the time to look deep enough. No one can deny that Paulie has the looks that turn peoples heads. Paulie is the whole package.

Continue reading "Outrageous,Outspoken and not willing to be Outdone An Interview with Paulie Malignaggi" »

Boxing Shorthand

posted by Kathleen Holland on June 4, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

In a society that moves rapidly with no time for standing still to converse with others. Many communication short cuts have become popular with the masses. Whether it be chatting online or texting from a cell phone the general rule has become, the shorter the better. LOL People just do not have the time or inclination to type out long drawn out responses. I suppose this is a sign of the times be it for better or worse it is here to stay.

Continue reading "Boxing Shorthand" »

In Plain Sight

posted by Kathleen Holland on June 2, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Although Melinda Cooper hasn't been seen in sports pages much recently and no mention has been made of her on the more popular boxing websites, she is anything but gone from the women's boxing scene. Melinda (18-0-0) is definitely still here and ready to return to the ring on June 12 in a scheduled six round bout. She has been training on and off since her last fight, over a year ago, and is anxious to show where she stands when she faces off with Donna Biggers (19-7-1) at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut.

Continue reading "In Plain Sight" »

Pretty Powerful

posted by Kathleen Holland on May 28, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Hollie ' Hot Stuff' Dunaway ( 21-6-0) has been busy training for her upcoming rematch with Wendy Rodriquez on June 13th. Hollie will be on the 'Finally' card with some of the best female boxers today. Even though Hollie was victorious in her first fight with Wendy she is in no way slowing down or taking anything for granted. Hollie wants to make a statement to the female boxing community that she is ready and able to capture every title in her weight class and beyond.

Continue reading "Pretty Powerful" »

Grace, Glory and Guts

posted by Kathleen Holland

By Judi Abate
Boxing DIva

Alicia ' Slick' Ashley ( 14-7-1) will be trading leather come June 12th with Lisa Brown in a 10 round bout for the NABF Female Super Bantamweight Title. Alicia is a fierce and formidable fighter and yet with her extensive experience with dance has given this warrior the grace and composure of a true performer inside the ring.

Continue reading "Grace, Glory and Guts" »

Sugar, Spice and Everything Nice

posted by Kathleen Holland on May 20, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

That is one way to describe Holly "The Preacher's Daughter" Holm ( 21-1-2) 6KOs. She can also be described as relentless, tenacious and packs an awesome punch. Holly is also considered the No.1 Welterweight in the world. Holly will be taking on Mary Jo Sanders on June 13th in New Mexico on the PPV fight card "Finally" for the IFBA Jr. Middleweight Title.

Continue reading "Sugar, Spice and Everything Nice" »

Big Surprises Come In Small Packages

posted by Kathleen Holland

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Carina " La Reina" Moreno (17-1) 5KOs is the current WBC minimum weight champion. She is small, compact, and an incredible fighting machine. Not necessarily does bigger mean better and Carina is just the fighter to prove this fact. On June 13th she will be taking on EIleen Olszewski ( 5-0) for the IFBA light flyweight title. This will definitely be an exciting bout for the fans and the media as well.

Continue reading "Big Surprises Come In Small Packages" »

John Duddy...A Real Gem

posted by Kathleen Holland on May 18, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

The Emerald Isle is known for the Blarney Stone, Irish Linen, Irish Eyes that Smile, and Guinness Beer but one of their greatest gems to cross over the ocean to the US has to be John Duddy, Middleweight challenger ( 24-0-0) 17KOs.

Continue reading "John Duddy...A Real Gem" »

The World Is Watching

posted by Kathleen Holland on May 15, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva
Photo by Chris McGee

I was very excited about today's conference call involving Ricky Hatton ( 43-1-0) and Juan Lazcano ( 37-4-0) regarding their May 24th bout in Manchester, UK. Ricky Hatton was up first, he was extremely polite as well as super positive about this upcoming contest. ( And we can't forget about his great British accent.)

Continue reading "The World Is Watching" »

Shaun George: A Well-mannered, Nice, Young Man Perhaps...

posted by Kathleen Holland on May 13, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Shaun George( 16-2-2) is a wonderful young man, smart, humble, and well mannered. However he is definitely not going to be Mr. Nice Guy when facing Chris Byrd ( 40-4-1) in their upcoming fight this Friday in Vegas. Shaun is ready, willing and able to go toe to toe with Byrd in an attempt to increase his chances in conquering the light heavyweight division.
I caught up with Shaun a few days before his big fight with Chris Byrd and wanted to see how things were going and what he might have on his mind. Let's talk to Shaun George:

Continue reading "Shaun George: A Well-mannered, Nice, Young Man Perhaps..." »

Packing Heat-An Interview with Bobby Gunn

posted by Kathleen Holland on April 29, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

After threatening my pal, Bobby Gunn ( Former IBA World Cruiserweight Champ and Light Heavyweight challenger) with a few of my wicked and deadly uppercuts for being MIA during his last fight in Phoenix, Arizona we got down to the business at hand. Which was this interview to find out what has been going on with him since his fight with Phelps. Previously I have asked Bobby hard and revealing questions because I know he will answer them with honesty and heart.

Continue reading "Packing Heat-An Interview with Bobby Gunn" »

Fabulous With a Definite Chance at Perfection

posted by Kathleen Holland on April 25, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

I was thrilled to have the opportunity to interview Maureen "Moe" Shea for Mightygloves. This would be my first interview with a female boxer and I was psyched. Maureen made the entire process seem easy as pie as well as very memorable.

Continue reading "Fabulous With a Definite Chance at Perfection" »

Steve Forbes-On the Record

posted by Kathleen Holland

Photo by Chris McGee
Conference Call 4/24/08
By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Stevie Forbes 33-5 ( 9ko's) is a heavy underdog in this upcoming fight with Oscar De La Hoya but after listening to his responses and his upbeat attitude, I definitely believe he is hungry and has the potential to make some noise against Oscar if he brings his A game. It is also wise to keep in mind that Stevie has never been on the canvas and isn't about to start now.

Continue reading "Steve Forbes-On the Record" »

Oscar Speaks

posted by Kathleen Holland on April 24, 2008

Photo by Chris McGee
Conference Call 4/23/08
By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

After my small bout with hyperventalating in reguard to being asked if I wanted to do the Oscar De La Hoya conference call yesterday I was able to get down to the task at hand. I was thrilled to be a part of this great moment. Oscar is my favorite boxer in the whole world so this was a pretty big deal even if only to hear his voice.

Continue reading "Oscar Speaks" »

Kudos to "Super" Joe Calzaghe

posted by Kathleen Holland on April 22, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Shall I begin with the famous last words, "I told you so" maybe, maybe not? Even though those words are true in this case I will concentrate more on the bout between Joe Calzaghe and Bernard Hopkins. It wasn't a pretty fight and it wasn't the decisive win which most fans were looking forward to but it was a good fight never less.

Continue reading "Kudos to "Super" Joe Calzaghe" »

Lionhearted

posted by Kathleen Holland on April 16, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Opponents beware! Do not take Yuri Foreman's picture perfect good looks lightly on your quest to dethrone him. Underneath that stoic exterior beats the heart of a lion and the will of a warrior.

Continue reading "Lionhearted" »

Full Circle

posted by Kathleen Holland

By Judi Abate
Boxing DIva

I have been waiting patiently for this bout to become a reality. For me, this is "the fight of the year." I am sure this bout will live up to all the hype it is advertised to be. Sensationialism isn't so important to this boxing fan as is the core content of a fighter and his abilities. This fight is not about revenge for Bernard Hopkins' fau paux it is more about the subject of overdue respect.

Continue reading "Full Circle" »

Mega Fight Night-Sneaking Suspicions

posted by Kathleen Holland on April 11, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

This Saturday will be a busy one for the boxing circuit. There are 4 high profile bouts and 1 over seas contest that I have a personal interest in which need to be evaluated. Boxing Diva's plate is full.

Continue reading "Mega Fight Night-Sneaking Suspicions" »

Team Diva-Dan Horgan

posted by Kathleen Holland on April 10, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Connecting with Dan Horgan ( Team Diva-Member Six) was an unique experience. Thanks to a social/business networking website. I found Dan, fellow boxing writer, on an interactive network of friends, groups, blogs and profiles dealing with the boxing community. (The Boxing Queen of Myspace will round out my last interview in this series so stay tuned.)

Continue reading "Team Diva-Dan Horgan" »

The Name Game

posted by Kathleen Holland on March 31, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva


Today's fighters can be described in various ways with regard to their boxing abilities, using a long list of complimentary adjectives such as: strong, fast, tough, as well as: athletic, determined, and dedicated quickly come to mind. Some of the most popular boxer's today have also been referred to as flamboyant, creative and outrageous.

Continue reading "The Name Game" »

Team Diva Part 5

posted by Kathleen Holland on March 24, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Team Diva Member 5 is... Melanie Ley better know as "The Boxing Grandma." Melanie has been a member of USA boxing since 1987 as a volunteer time keeper, judge, clerk, tournament administrator and wears many more hats within the amateur boxing scene.

Continue reading "Team Diva Part 5" »

Are you a Boxing Brainiac? Part 1

posted by Kathleen Holland on March 20, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

You may not know the theory of relativity or what a kava kava is but if you can answer the questions below:

Who in boxing is nicknamed The Greatest?
What is the difference between a TKO and KO?
What US state hosts most boxing championship bouts?

Continue reading "Are you a Boxing Brainiac? Part 1" »

Prediction Time Once Again

posted by Kathleen Holland on March 14, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

"Unfinished Business" is the perfect name for the upcoming WBC Super featherweight championship bout between Pacquiao and Marquez.

Continue reading "Prediction Time Once Again" »

Team Diva Part 4

posted by Kathleen Holland on March 12, 2008

By Judi Abate

The fourth member of Team Diva is Darren "Checkmate" Maciunski. Yes, he is a very good chess player.) Darren is a former professional boxer, ( IBC Jr. Middleweight Champ 1999-2000) a successful business man,personal trainer and proud owner of Checkmate's Boxing Center in my home state of New Jersey.

Continue reading "Team Diva Part 4" »

Femme Fatales

posted by Kathleen Holland on March 2, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

After my previous article sighting the most handsome men of professional boxing I decided to turn my attention to the women of professional boxing. Unfortunately and unfairly, women's boxing does not get to share in the same "spotlight" as that of the men.

Continue reading "Femme Fatales" »

The Hot List

posted by Kathleen Holland on February 22, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

With all the swelling anticipation of a big boxing year to come and all the testosterone swirling in the air around the boxing community I felt it was time for the Boxing Diva and avid boxing watcher to enlighten my fellow boxing fans with the unequivocal knowledge of boxing's hotness. I know it's a hard job but someone has to do it. ( Smiles)

Continue reading "The Hot List" »

Star Bright

posted by Kathleen Holland on February 17, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Marcus Oliveria is definitely on his way to becoming a bright star in today's light heavyweight division. Marcus is a true contender in every aspect of the word. Marcus comes to us from the Underground Boxing Company stable( Kansas City) and fights out of Topeka, Kansas. He is trained by Erik Riley and his manager is Doug Ward.

Continue reading "Star Bright" »

Prediction Time Again

posted by Kathleen Holland on February 14, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

With "The Epic Battle Continues" between warriors Kelly Pavlik and Jermain Taylor only a few days away comes the time for the boxing diva to make another educated prediction. This highly anticipated rematch is going to be one for the record books for sure.

Continue reading "Prediction Time Again" »

Boxing Diva's Expose'

posted by Kathleen Holland on February 10, 2008

By Mightygloves.com

Who is this insightful female writer for mightygloves.com you ask?
Who is this women who calls herself The Diva of Boxing?
Who is she that seeks justice for the sport of boxing?

Continue reading " Boxing Diva's Expose'" »

Bobby Gunn Unfiltered

posted by Kathleen Holland on February 4, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

I was looking forward to doing a follow up interview with my friend, Bobby Gunn former IBA World Cruiserweight Champ when the opportunity recently presented itself. Bobby has been busy training in Phoenix, Arizona for the last month or so in hope of getting a another chance at a world title shot.

Continue reading "Bobby Gunn Unfiltered" »

Team Diva Part 2

posted by mightygloves.com on January 23, 2008

By Judi Abate

Kathy Holland is the editor of Mightygloves.com. Mightygloves. com is presently located in Las Vegas, Nevada. Kathy is an avid boxing fan and supporter. I first contacted Kathy after surfing the Web for boxing sites. Noticing that the site happen to be looking for boxing writers and this was an idea that appealed to my curious side (since I have been writing a boxing novel for-forever and I share a love of the sport) on a whim I contacted Kathy about writing for Mightygloves.

Continue reading "Team Diva Part 2" »

Predictions - Round 2

posted by Kathleen Holland on January 18, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Even though my current record for fight predictions stands at 0-1. I will not let that side-track me from the business at hand...which is the Trinidad vs. Jones bout. This is a much harder fight to call because both boxers are world champs and extraordinary fighters.

Continue reading "Predictions - Round 2" »

Team Diva

posted by Kathleen Holland on January 14, 2008

By Judi Abate

When a boxer steps into the ring he does so alone. However, he knows and believes that his team is behind him 100 percent. His team has worked with him daily, encouraged him, advised him and most of all prepared him so that he is now confident and ready to take on his opponent.

Continue reading "Team Diva" »

Bring On The Titans

posted by Kathleen Holland on January 11, 2008

By Judi Abate

With the Jones vs. Trinidad fight only days away, Felix "Tito" Trinidad was relaxed, confident and focused in his phone tele-conference. " I'm ready to fight. It will be a great fight." Tito's translator, Jose "Pepe" Ramos told us that Tito has been working very hard on every aspect in training to prepare for this bout which guarantees to be an entertaining show for all his fans and supporters.

Continue reading "Bring On The Titans" »

Predictions

posted by Kathleen Holland on January 5, 2008

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

I do not claim to be a fortune teller with a crystal ball or an astrologer who reads the stars. I am not a bit psychic that I know of but I do enjoy making educated guesses concerning upcoming bouts every once in awhile like all die hard fans.

Continue reading "Predictions" »

Auld Lang Syne

posted by Kathleen Holland on December 30, 2007

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

With 2007 coming to a close and 2008 waiting on the horizon, most people will look back on the year and smile at their accomplishments, frown about the risks not taken, and wonder about what could have been.

Continue reading "Auld Lang Syne" »

Boxing's Best Of 2007

posted by Kathleen Holland on December 29, 2007

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

As the year comes to a close most, if not all boxing websites and writers weigh in on the best of the best boxing had to offer. I have boldly decided to add my two cents to this topic and share what I truly believe is the "best" list of boxing's accomplishments this year. When making my selections for each category I tried to keep the results to a single boxer or person from the boxing community but in some categories, just as with Lays potato chips, I couldn't pick just one.
Also included in the 2007 review will be my special "Divalicious" list of the best and worse boxing had to offer. 2007 was a very good year for boxing and I'm looking forward to an exciting 2008. Bring it on...

Continue reading "Boxing's Best Of 2007" »

Boxing Lingo

posted by Kathleen Holland on December 26, 2007

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Every sport has their own "special" language which is spoken among the athletes, trainers, fans and media. Boxing is no exception.

Some words are universal among the boxing community such as: hook and jab. Others are not so common as in the term, barnburner. Still all these words and phrases make up boxing's rich history.

Continue reading "Boxing Lingo" »

What Was He Thinking?

posted by Kathleen Holland on December 20, 2007

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Obviously, Bernard Hopkins wasn't thinking when he made the racial slur. " I will never lose to a white boy" at a recent media press conference. The slur, (Yes it was a slur. It was more than just an insult or just friendly boxing hype.) was directed toward Joe Calzaghe. This type of classless behavior from a seasoned professional boxer is what draws negativity to the sport where it is definitely not appreciated or needed.

Continue reading "What Was He Thinking?" »

Not Just A Pretty Face

posted by Kathleen Holland on December 17, 2007

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

What do Oscar DeLaHoya, Paulie Malignaggi, Floyd Mayweather Jr, Joe Calzaghe, John Duddy, Miquel Cotto, Kelly Pavlik and Bobby Gunn have in common? I'll give you a minute or two to think about it....( tick)......(tick)....(tick)....time's up.

Continue reading "Not Just A Pretty Face" »

Let's talk to Dan Horgan

posted by Kathleen Holland on December 15, 2007

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Dan is the 18 year old author of the newly published book, "Bringing Back Boxing" and also assistant editor of doghouseboxing.com. After giving Dan a positive review for his new book. I was anxious to speak to the author one on one.

Continue reading "Let's talk to Dan Horgan" »

My Xmas Boxing Wish List

posted by Kathleen Holland on December 12, 2007

Punch Lines by Judi Abate

Season greetings everyone.

I want to wish all of you a happy, healthy, safe holiday and hope you do not find coal in your xmas stockings this year.(smiles) Speaking of wishes and gifts, I compiled a few gifts I would like to receive from the Santa Claus of Boxing:

Continue reading "My Xmas Boxing Wish List" »

Two Thumbs Up-A Boxing Book Review

posted by Kathleen Holland on December 8, 2007

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

When fellow boxing writer Dan Horgan (Assistant editor of doghouseboxing.com) told me about his project to write a book putting boxing in a positve light. I was very excited about both the idea and the final result. ( We writers have to stick together.) This positive view of Dan's was one that definitely needed to be shared with the masses.

Continue reading "Two Thumbs Up-A Boxing Book Review" »

Let's Talk with Bobby Gunn

posted by Kathleen Holland on November 23, 2007

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Before this interview began I was searching for creative and catchy titles that would draw
attention to my subject, Bobby Gunn-former IBA champ and World ranked Cruiserweight whose sight is set on a Light Heavyweight title shot. I came up with: Top Gunn, Smoking Gunn, Son of a Gunn and Have Gunn will Travel.

Continue reading "Let's Talk with Bobby Gunn" »

Punch Lines - So you think you know boxing....

posted by Kathleen Holland on November 19, 2007

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

No one person knows everything even the expert and genius. However, boxing afficiandos pride themselves on their wide variety of boxing knowledge. Some fans can give you dates, opponents and results of championship fights as if they were reading a shopping list. Other fans can recite a favorite boxers record without missing a beat and some fans can tell you all the juicy, personal details about a champ or a chump.

Continue reading "Punch Lines - So you think you know boxing...." »

Neutral Corners Part 2 - Weighing In

posted by Kathleen Holland on November 3, 2007

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

On one side of the room we have the traditional sport of boxing with it's fedora's and big cigars. On the other side we have the spontaneous sport of MMA with its mohawks and tattoos and in the middle we have fans dedicated to their favorite genre.

Continue reading "Neutral Corners Part 2 - Weighing In" »

Neutral Corners

posted by Kathleen Holland on October 18, 2007

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

The two most popular combative sports today are Boxing and MMA (mixed martial arts). With this attention comes a ton of negative feedback which attacks both sports. Endless opinions from fans on popularity, similarities, differences, entitlement, and of course, coolness.

Continue reading "Neutral Corners" »

Punch Lines By Judi Abate - Quote Me

posted by Kathleen Holland on September 20, 2007

By Judi Abate

" Yo Adrian,it's me Rocky" Famous quotes from the squared circle are a significant part of our culture. Everyone knows at least one, some fans even have a favorite they cherish and utilize as a daily motivational chant. There are also those quotes that are so over-exposed that you just shake your head and put your hands over your ears when you hear them. In this case, too much of a good thing is no good-it's bad.

Continue reading "Punch Lines By Judi Abate - Quote Me" »

Punch Lines By Judi Abate: The Right Stuff

posted by Kathleen Holland on September 5, 2007

By Judi Abate

There’s always two sides to every story and boxing is definitely that kind of story. It is no secret boxing is a sport that can benefit from some major changes and reform. Boxing is also a sport with the potential to benefit many if given a fair chance. Boxing has the "right stuff" if you are willing to search to the core of its foundation.

Continue reading "Punch Lines By Judi Abate: The Right Stuff" »

Punch Lines by Judi Abate: Changes

posted by Kathleen Holland on August 19, 2007

By Judi Abate

"Boxing is a tough racket" words spoken by boxing great Rocky Graziano. I'm sure this can be said for both the physical aspect of the sport as well as behind the scenes theatrics. This is NOT an article about boxing bashing, this is NOT about who does who wrong. It is an attempt to acknowledge the black eyes of this sport in order to correct them (because yes, they are broken) so that boxing can remain strong.

Changes do happen in daily life. Everyone or everything eventually sees that to change is a positive ability- a type of survival. To go with the flow becomes common place. Boxing needs to change also so it can cement it's place in history. What boxing once was in the past, the pinnacle of tradition, respect, and entertainment is now only a skeleton of it's former self.

Continue reading "Punch Lines by Judi Abate: Changes" »