WBO Convention Day 3

The 24th Annual WBO Convention in San Juan, Puerto Rico came to a conclusion yesterday with what many boxing insiders consider the most entertaining events of the week: the Championship and Ratings committee meetings and the award ceremony.

The proceedings kicked off in the Morning as president Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel and the board entertained motions from the floor from numerous promoters and even fighters to move up the WBO workd rankings, and in some instances to enter the world rankings altogether. As always, colorful American promoter Gary Shaw stole the show with his frequent jokes, often at the expense of a fellow promoter , who had the misfortune of attending the event wearing a pink shirt and matching pink shoes.

“First of all, anyone wearing pink and pink sneakers should not be allowed at this microphone,” Shaw said jokingly, “he should only be allowed to argue for women’s fights.”

The first motion kicked off with Japanese promoter Ulysses G. Sato, who made a motion to see Japanese mini-flyweight Katsunari Takayama move into the top ten (he is currently ranked #12).

From there, Philippine promoter Mike Aldeguer of ALA Boxing told the board that his junior flyweight champion, Ramon Garcia, was tentatively looking to fight contender Tommy Seran on March 17 of 2012. A representative of Carlos Rueben Dario Ruiz, the #8 ranked contender and Latino champion, made no demands, but did make sure that the board was familiar with his accomplishments and desire to fight for a world title if the opportunity arose. It was a statement that brought a lighthearted response from President Valcarcel.

“If you talk to the Filipinos, they would love to fight you!” joked Valcarcel, “They love to fight the Argentines!”

Another argument from the floor to see Spanish veteran Rafael Lozano into the WBO rankings brought more lighthearted jabs from the President. Although Lozano possesses a 25-3 record, and won both a Bronze medal in the Olympics and the Spanish Junior Flyweight title in his last fight, many couldn’t help but notice his advanced age (he is 41-years old). When reminded of the Bronze medal, Valcarcel quipped “When?! In 1974?!”

From there the discussions moved to the Flyweight discussion where President Valcarcel noted that champion Brian Viloria would fight #1 contender Giovani Segura of Mexico in his next fight. A discussion of the 115-pound division talk about popular champion Omar Narvaez of Argentina, and an argument from Gary Shaw to move Cesar Seda Jr., the #2 ranked contender from Puerto Rico, into a title fight. Offering a box-off with #1 contender Isack Junior, Shaw was determined to see his young contender fighting for the world title before the next convention. Another argument from the Argentine delegation was entertained for #6 ranked contender Roberto Sosa, the unbeaten prospect from Argentina with a 21-0 record to move into the top five.

At Bantamweight the discussion was all around whether or not champion Nonito Donaire was going to move up in weight or not. Philippine promoter Mike Aldeguer argued for his fighter, Alex John Banal to fight in a title fight for a vacant title if that did occur (Banal is currently the #2 contender) while Gary Shaw argued for Vic Darchinyan.

At Junior Featherweight President Valcarcel announced that champion Jorge Arce had nine months to make his mandatory title defense. Top Rank’s Carl Moretti announced that it appeared that he would be fighting in Mexico in January against a ranked fighter for his first title defense. Gary Shaw argued along side Alex Camponovo for the winner of the Showtime fight between Chris Avalos (#4) and Jonathan Romero (#14) to move into the #1 slot. The fight is slated for December 2 on Showtime. Presedent Valcarcel was open to the idea, but wouldn’t commit to the jump just yet.

“We don’t’ have to decide now,” commented Vaslcarcel, “We need the committee to decide if the fighter moves to #1.”

At Featherweight there was a buzz over the fact that previous #1 contender Chonlatarn Piriyapinyo of Thailand won another organizations championship, thus opening up the top ten more movement. An argument was made for undefeated Aussie Joel Brunker to move into the top ten, before it was recognized that he had in fact moved into the #5 slot. Alex Camponovo wanted Abraham Lopez (16-0) to enter the rankings, as well as Colombian bomber Daluis Prescott (23-0), the brother of Breidis.

Despite Prescott’s impressive record, President Valcarcel did raise some concerns with the level of opposition. In Prescott’s last fight, he stopped Elkin Zavaleta, who had a less than stellar record of (3-22) and Valcarcel pointed out that he fought Victor Peralta twice (Peralta has a 1-28-2 record).

From there, many familiar names were offered to the board in an attempt to move up the rankings, including Ray Bautista from the Philippines.

Gary Shaw then introduced a young, undefeated prospect named Jose Pedraza (4-0), a Puerto Rican who Shaw promised would become very familiar to the world of boxing in the coming years. President Valcarcel suggested a fight with Pedraza for a Youth title, a suggestion that Pedraza warmly embraced.

“That’s what I want to do,” commented the young Puerto Rican fighter, “I would be very happy to hold that belt.”

Although the highest weight classes saw many familiar names discussed as they argued to move up, and in some instances remain in, the world rankings, there was little question that there would also be many newcomers entering the rankings. Although Gary Shaw had words with Argentine promoter Mario Margossian, the most interesting Shaw moment when he made a short, simple request for Chad Dawson to move up to the #1 spot at 175.

“The world saw what happened with Hopkins,” Shaw said, “Chad Dawson should be #1.”

At heavyweight the most noteworthy moment came when Chauncy Welliver, and his manager Roland Jankleson, stood before the podium and petitioned for a higher ranking. Welliver, the #10 ranked heavyweight, recently won the WBO China Zone championship, and with his growing popularity in China, pushed to see his ranking move up. Although Championship Committee Chairman Luis Batista Salas had a vigorous cross examination of Welliver and Jankleson, in which questions were raised about Welliver’s attempt to defend his WBO Asia-Pacific belt against Marcellus Brown (a fight that was not approved by the WBO), Welliver and Jankleson did seem to make the most of their opportunity to present their case to the board, citing the fact that Welliver is the most active fighter in the top ten, with over 50 wins and five fights in 2011 so far.

A strong argument from Markus Aslani followed, in which the German pushed to see Lebanese born prospect Manual Charr enter the top ten as well. Charr scored an impressive knockout over former contender Owen Beck in 2010 and former contender Danny Williams earlier this year. Also, Hedi Taouab pushed for undefeated Italian Francesco Pianeta and former world champion Ruslan Chagaev to enter the WBO rankings.

After the ranking the WBO proudly introduced their new webpage at www.wbo-int.com and announced that it would be unveiled to the world during the evening’s gala dinner. Finally, the grievance committee proposed a slight modification to Rule 13 (a)(2)(a), which referred to mandatory challenges.

The event concluded with the Gala dinner that evening in which the new web page was unveiled, and the annual awards were handed out. Golden Boy Promotions won three awards (NABO Promoter of the Year, and two Special Recognition Awards for Eric Gomez as matchmaker of the year and to Golden Boy Promotions from WBO Intercontinental), while Bob Arum and Top Rank won three as well (NABO Special Recognition Award, Executive of the Year award to Carfl Moretti , and Promoter of the Year for Bob Arum). Wladimir Klitschko won Fighter of the Year award, while Marco Huck won the Most Exciting Fighter of the Year Award. Mario Margossian won Latin Promoter of the Year, and Wilfred Sauerland won European Promoter of the Year. Yessica Bopp won Female Fighter of the Year, while Promoter Frank Warren received a Special Recognition Award, as well as Heavyweight Contender Chauncy Welliver.

http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/wbo-convention-day-3-2-99916

Photos from: http://www.notifight.com/artman2/publish/Reporte_7/Baja_el_tel_n_de_la_24_Convenci_n.php

 By David Finger
Photos: WBO

The WBO 24th Annual Convention continued on Wednesday for its second day of events, highlighted by President Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel’s report and a guest speaker who provided a training seminar for various boxing officials: Hall of Fame trainer Emanuel Steward.

The event kicked off in the morning with Mr. Jorge Molina’s report on WBO Latin America. Mr. Molina once again gave a informative and well researched presentation, which highlighted the WBO Latino’s history in developing future world Champions. Pointing out that since 1996 (when WBO Latino started), the regional organization has sanctioned over four hundred and thirty four fights, with 2011 being the biggest year ever with forty seven title fights since last year’s convention in Colombia.

Perhaps just as significant is Mr. Molina’s ability to spread out these championship fights all over two continents. Argentina has held the bulk of the fights in 2011 (with seventeen), but is quickly followed by Brazil (ten), Puerto Rico, the United States and Mexico. Most impressive for Mr. Molina, however, is the continued tradition of WBO Latino as a training ground for World Champions. Ninety-five WBO Latino champions have gone on to fight for a world title, including eleven in 2010, and thirty-two who would go on to win a world championship. For Mr. Molina, the secret to his success is in a plan that could rival Herman Cain’s “9-9-9″ in its simplicity: quality.

“The criteria for a Latino regional title is either of the two fighters is eligible to be ranked,” commented Mr. Molina, “Quality will be beyond quantity. That is why the Latino title has garnered such results.”

After Mr. Molina’s presentation, a video was shown highlighting 20-years of great WBO title fights, featuring such legends as Floyd Mayweather, Oscar De la Hoya, Evander Holyfield and Bernard Hopkins.

From there a President Valcarcel heard a discussion on the soon to be implemented changes to the WBO web page, which will soon have such additions as videos and executive blogs.

An early “happy birthday” was offered to Dr. Ramon Pina, who will be turning ninety years old in November, and Golden Boy Promotions and its representative Eric Gomez, was given a round of applace for its assistance in securing the golf course used earlier in the week (Oscar De la Hoya was a member of the club).

From there, discussions went to the recent challenges to the WBO trademark and name.

“We are perfectly protected,” commented WBO member Edoardo Ceccoli, “one by renovation and another for the transaction for being inscribe in the European registry.”

The legal discussions continued on the matter, in particular the problems with the EBU and British Boxing Board of Control.

From there President Valcarcel presented his report, and he started out by highlighting the achievements of noted Pilipino boxers.

“We have five champions, four men and one woman,” commented President Valcarcel, “We congratulate the Philippine (fighters) for the great achievements through our organization.”

From there President Valcarcel admitted that he was not yet satisfied with the amount of money going into charitable contributions and its “WBO Kids Drug Free” program.

“We are not happy with the money we are assigning for the youth,” admitted President Valcarcel, “We want at least 40-50% of money we make to go to educating youth through boxing, particularly in poorer countries. I spoke to the accountant and we will increase the donation budget this year.”

President Valcarcel also challenged WBO champions to continue to be role models for the World’s youth.

“Our WBO champs don’t only have to be good fighters, they also have to be great role models for the youth.”

President Valcarcel then invited attendees to visit the new WBO Offices tomorrow, as the WBO will have free tours provided. From there Luis Bautista Salas followed with a call for honor and dignity.

“We have to return dignity to boxing,” said Salas, “We have to be honorable in the process that we are going to move forward for the good of the sport. These principles have been upheld. I thank you all, and in particular to Francisco Valcarcel. He has brought it to the pinnacle. We are the greatest organization because we have the highest quality of people working with us.”

President Valcarcel then concluded with a quik summary of the finances of the WBO.

“The WBO is financially sound,” concluded Valcarcel, “We don’t’ owe anyone any money, we have money in the bank. The office is ours, the equipment is ours. We are financially number one, but more important we are morally number one.”

The Convention then moved into the awards ceremony, with such worldwide dignitaries such as promoters Nestor Tobias (from Namibia) and Sammy Gello-Ani (from the Philippines) receiving promoter of the year awards from their respective regions.

The convention then went to the floor for discussions on the location for the 25th Annual Convention. Three locations were nominated, Florida, Las Vegas, and Cleveland Ohio. Cleveland failed to make the final cut, and the board then voted overwhelmingly for the 2012 convention to be held in the State of Florida with Nevada being selected as an alternate location.

After lunch the convention continued with the seminars for referees, judges, and inspectors. Perhaps most noteworthy was the presence of Emanuel Steward, who gave a fascinating speech on the obligations of those officials. It was a powerful speech in which he challenged those in attendance to protect the integrity of the sport.

“Boxing is a billion dollar industry,” commented Steward, “and we can’t keep having these controversial decisions with a lot of the same people involved.”

Steward also discussed the impact one bad call could have not only on the sport but also on the fighters involved.

“Fighters are training hard,” Steward said, “but it all goes down the drain with one bad call.”

Steward then challenged commissions that overworked referees and judges on major cards, citing instances when referees and judges are working from the four round undercard all the way to the main event.

“They are already physically and mentally worn out.”

Steward, who also commented on the importance of nutrition, then made a strong argument for the implementation of an instant replay.

“It’s all about making proper decisions and the proper calls,” commented Steward, “we have time in a fight. We have all this airtime and we can’t take five minutes to review a call in a twelve round fight?!”

From there the referees held their seminar, reviewing several of the high profile fights which involved controversy on the part of the referees. Clips were played of the Mayweather-Ortiz fight, the Hopkins-Dawson fight and the Abner Mares Joseph Agbeko fight. With an open discussion of the performance of all three referees in those fights, many in attendance gained perhaps the most useful lesson from one of the referees whose performance had been widely criticized in one of the aforementioned fights: Russell Mora, who was in attendance.

“I made mistakes in that fight,” admitted Mora, “I was too close to the fighters for the last knockdown and as a result I missed it.”

It was a lesson in mechanics that proved valuable for many of the referee’s in attendance, all of them recognizing that Mora was a very good referee whose mistakes in that one fight proved to be a disaster for not only Joseph Agbeko, but also himself in 2011.

http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/wbo-convention-day-2-2-99758 

Story and photos by David Finger

The 24th Annual WBO Convention kicked off Tuesday morning with exciting developments in the form of a new title, new developments with the regional titles, and major developments in what is proving to be one of the most exciting additions to the WBO in recent years in its female champions.

The event kicked off with roll call, followed by an invocation from second Vice President Jacinth Bryan Labega. After approving the prior minutes from the 2010 Convention in Cartagena, Colombia, the WBO adknowledged several of the notable fighters who came out to support the WBO. Female champions Yesica Bopp from Argentina (the reigning 108 pound champion) and 115 pound champion Carolina Duer (also from Argentina) received warm ovations, as did WBO Asia Pacific Heavyweight champion and #10 ranked WBO contender Chauncy Welliver. From there the president suggested a slight change in the agenda and moved President’s Luis Batista Salas Championship Committee Report to be done first.

A short video highlighting the accomplishments of the WBO’s “Kids Drug Free” program followed, showcasing the WBO’s commitment to continuing service to the community in places as diverse as Mexico and the Philippines.

However, Mr. Salas’ report did start off with a somewhat sobering reminder of the recent economic downturn suffered in Europe and the rest of the world.

“International boxing has become a victim of what the modern world is victim of,” commented Mr. Salas, “an economic monetary crisis.”

After Mr. Salas then thanked those members who came out to Puerto Rico he added some promising news that quickly lightened the mood. The WBO “had more championship fights than all other organizations,” MR. Salas proudly announced.

“Even though boxing is taking up a position of retreat, we have been able to remain firm because we have great champions and great promoters,” added Mr. Salas, “we held thirty nine championship fights so far this year. All the parts of the world have had participation with a lot of fights.”

Mr. Salas then commented on the integrity and openness of the WBO being a major reason for its success.

“In the past, sanctioning organizations were controlled by one promoter, or two or three at most. But this is a highly democratic organization, highly respected. Wherefore we have more than forty active promoters in the WBO. That is more active promoters than all the other organizations together.”

Mr. Salas then was able to add very promising news about one of the more recent decisions adopted by the WBO, the inclusion of female champions. When the WBO decided to sanction female championship fights in the 2008 Convention in Hungary, it was at times contentious and somewhat controversial with some boxing purist. But Mr. Salas was happy to announce the decision proved to be highly beneficial for not only the WBO, but for women’s boxing as well.

“Last year you approved championship bouts with women, and last year we had a very fruitful discussion. But women have been gaining ground and we have to respect the decision. I am of the opinion that women have done a service to this organization and I would like to that all of you for the bringing women into the professional championship world.”

Mr. Salas then offered some pleasantly surprising numbers that impressed many of the WBO attendees.

“Women only started last year, and (already) we had twenty six womens world championship bouts!”

Mr. Salas then acknowledged the boxing community in both Haiti and Argentina for their commitment and development of women’s boxing.

After Mr. Salas’ report, Mr. Adolfo Flores Monge presented the treasurers report. Despite the recent world wide recession that Mr. Salas referred to, Mr. Monge was happy to announce the the WBO’s revenue increased this year, and that over $115,000 was donated to the “Kids Drug Free” program, one of the largest charitable donations in boxing in recent years.

WBO attorney Andrew Horn then commented on the WBO continued commitment to not only it’s non-profit status, but also its commitment to combating poverty and service.

From there Juan Carlos Tapia presented an excellent video of the history of Puerto Rican fighters. The video was divided into three sections: fighters who were in the Hall of Fame, fighters who should be in the Hall of Fame, and fighters who will be in the Hall of Fame. The sheer volume of names on all three list was a testament to the vital and important role played by Puerto Rican fighters in shaping the history of boxing, and fans and attendees watched clips of such legends such as Carlos Ortiz, Wilfredo Gomez, Wilfred Benitez, Jose Torres, Edwin Rosario, Esteban De Jesus, Wilfredo Vasquez, and Felix Trinidad.

From there President Valcarcel moved to the regional vice presidents reports. But he was proud to announce the success of the newest WBO title: the WBO Youth Title. He then offered his congratulations to the success of the Cuban boxers and Joe Hernandez. However, President Valcarcel did offer his opinion that, in rare instances, the WBO had sanctioned fights that they should have reconsidered.

“We don’t approve fights with bums,” President Valcarcel said sternly, “sometimes we have a problem with fighters who become regional champions who are not qualified to be ranked.”

One of the major problems where this emerged was with fighters in Africa. President Valcarcel admitted that it was often hard to keep track of “real” records of some of the African fighters.

“Many African fighters don’t have a record,” commented President Valcarcel.

Vice President, and head of WBO Africa, Andrew Smale admitted that it was a problem in the past.

“Sometimes I have problems with fights in East Africa,” admitted Smale, “the problem is that we get the records from the commissions, which doesn’t have the same record as on Boxrec. The problem is to actually get these records verified you have to go back to journalistic records and video of the fights which is very difficult. It can be done but it is very difficult and time consuming.”

Despite the setback, President Valcarcel commended Vice President Smale for his amazing work in Africa and the strides made in developing boxing on the continent.

Despite the nature of the conversation, many attendees felt it was a sign of the transparency of the WBO that such a sensitive subject was being discussed in such an open manner.

The next report presented was NABO and WBO Intercontinental Executive Director Mark Reels.

The NABO did suffer a slight decline from the previous year, with twenty nine championship fights in 2010, and fifteen so far in 2011 it was looking like the NABO would come up slightly short of its previous totals from 2010. However, several unforeseen circumstances did seem to unduly lower the numbers. Several canceled fights and two vacant title fights resulting in uncrowned champions due to overweight fighters were cited. However, with a scheduled NABO title fight scheduled in Canada later in the year, it was looking as if the year would end strongly.

“As a former professional fighter myself I will not approve a fight with fighters of lesser quality,” added Mr. Reels.

The NABO, despite the slight drop from 2010, did have another profitable year with over $45,000 raised, and with six title fights scheduled before the end of the year, Reels was anticipating gross sales of over $61,000. Although Reels admitted it would be the lowest gross revenue the NABO collected since 2005, he was optimistic that the strong finish to the year, would lead to a strong recovery in 2012.

The WBO Intercontinental report followed, with exciting developments as the number of fights so far has increased from seventeen in 2010 to 27 so far in 2011. Much of the increase was due to Vice President Reels and member Edoardo Ceccoli’s exciting expansion of the WBO Intercontinental in the USA.

“In the previous year there were sixteen European Intercontinental title fights to only one in the United States,” commented Ceccoli, “This year there are 10 Intercontinental fights in the USA.”

After lunch Vice President Leon Panoncillo gave his Asia Pacific Report. Mr. Panoncillo’s success with the WBO Asia Pacific continued in 2011 with another banner year for the regional title.

Although there was a slight drop in revenue, in part due to the nature of the high profile David Tua title fight in 2010, Panoncillo was happy to announce the WBO was doing three times as many title fights as their competitors in the OPBF and PABA. With strong support from the Philippines, Thailand, and China, the WBO is continuing to grow in the region. Panoncillo commented on the success of not only the Asia Pacific championship (which held twenty seven fights in 2011) but also some of the other regional titles such as the Oriental title (which saw twenty one title fights in 2011) and the newest belt: the WBO Asia Pacific Youth championship, which saw ten championship fights in 2011. In all, Panoncillo and the Asia Pacific region saw over 59 championship fights in 2011, with revenue over $56,000. But Panoncillo also added that these fighters are seeing the fruits of their commitment to the WBO and vice versa. Many of the Asian fighters who recently were fighting for regional eblts now see themselves fighting, and winning, world titles.

Following Mr. Panoncillo’s report, Vice President Andrew Smale gave his report on WBO boxing. Once again Mr. Smale showed why he is quickly establishing himself as one of the WBO’s most valuable commodities, with further grown in the continent and what is looking very close to absolute WBO dominance of the boxing scene in Africa. Smale was proud to announce eighteen title fights in 2010. And so far in 2011, he has presided over seventeen with five future dates confirmed. It is rapidly expanding each year, and despite the difficulties promoters in Africa face, the WBO’s commitment to boxing in Africa is clearly paying huge dividends. Smale also commented in the increasing strength of boxing in Ghana, and the impressive nature of the numbers when compared with some of the rival organizations. The ABU (associated with the WBC) had only one fight in 2011, as did the WBC Intercontinental. The IBF Africa Championship has yet to do a fight in 2011. Smale closed by announcing that the WBO collected $21,400 in Africa so far this year, and he is optimistic that at least two African regional champions may get title fights in the coming year.

After Andrew Smale’s report,Vice President Istvan” Koko” Kovacs gave his report on the state of WBO Europe.

Although the WBO still is having problems with the actions of the European Boxing Union, the growth of the WBO Europe still remains impressive. In 2009 there were only two title fights. In 2010 it was up to twelve fights. So far in 2011 there have been eighteen fights, proving that 2011 will be a banner year for WBO Europe. Thus far, the WBO Europe has collected over $61,000 this year.

Next came Zhang Tao’s report on the state of the WBO China Region. With a successful debut in 2010 in a fight that hosted Mike Tyson as an ambassador, the boxing scene in China proved to be one of the most untapped and prosperous regions in the world for the sport. A televised fight featuring Heavyweight contender Chauncy Welliver in China (where he is affectionately nicknamed the Panda) was seen by over seventeen million people, making him one of the most recognizable fighters in the largest country in the world.

Markus Aslani followed with his report on female boxing in the WBO. He proudly announced the the WBO had over twenty six fights since the last convention, with over twenty this year alone. Aslani was also confident that 2012 would also see continued expansion.

John Duggan then gave a very brief report from the Grievance Committee, stating that 2011 was, thus far, “another good… problem free year.”

President Valcarcel did add that the problems with the EBU and the British Board of Boxing and Control may require more drastic action from the WBO in the form of litigation in the courtroom.

British member Dennis Gilmartin commented on the problems he had with the BBB when he was working on the promotional end of the sport.

“It’s a board issue,” commented Gilmartin, “they won’t recognize us . It’s not a promotion issue. I think it’s an issue between WBO and the British Boxing Board of control.”

President Valcarcel showed his growing frustration with the position of the EBU as well, addition that although they were working towards a resolution, litigation may be in the near future if nothing could be done.

“We are still working on that recognition. But sooner or later, I’m telling you, if we have to we will do something in Court. It is very expensive, but if we have to do it we will.”

Much of the dispute is around the alleged EBU position that the name “Euoropean Champion” remains their trademark, a position that Mr. Duggan (an attorney), finds offensive and preposterous.

“They can’t own the name ‘European champion’,” commented Duggan, “they don’t own that name. That name is owned by the people of Europe and the world. That’s why it is so arrogant that they take this position. It’s not their right to force a boxer to choose (between the WBO and EBU). It’s not there right to force a promoter to chose. It’s an offence to the law. It is very detrimental to the sport of boxing.”

WBO attorney Andrew Horn also commented on the legality of the alleged EBU position.

“What they are doing is an obstruction of free trade,” added Horn, “It amounts to anti-trust. They can’t restrict free enterprise. They own their name, the prefix. But not ‘European’. They have no honorable position. The WBO has been honorable not to take this to litigation, not to air this out in the courts, if we don’t get this worked out soon we have no choice but to work this out in the courts. I have recommended to the WBO that we file suit a long time ago. We never lost a case. I think most people are afraid to sue us. I think Paco has given it a tremendous run and done what he can to keep it out of court, but I think it has run its course”.

http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/wbo-convention-day-one-99653

 By David Finger
Photos: OMB

The 24th Annual WBO Convention returned home this week to San Juan, Puerto Rico at the Ritz Carlton. Monday kicked off with arguably the most popular event of the week, the 14th Annual Golf Tournament. That evening, WBO President Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel briefly spoke during the Welcome cocktail reception, thanking the members from all over the world for once again coming out to join the WBO. Citing the recent economic downturn, he acknowledged the financial sacrifice may of the members made and thanked them for their dedication to the sport and to the WBO. Today’s events will include the General Assembly, the opening ceremony, and the regional vice presidents reports.

http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/wbo-convention-kicks-off-2-99599 

The weights are in for Saturday’s big event in Ludwigsburg. Marco Huck will defend his WBO cruiserweight title against tough Rogelio Rossi. In the co-feature, Dominik Britsch will face Billy Lyell in a middleweight contest, and Kubrat Pulev takes on Travis Walker in a battle of heavyweights. Photos by Photo Wende

FULL WEIGHTS AND PHOTOS

Rogelio Rossi: 89,6 kg [197.5-pounds]

http://www.boxingscene.com/photos-weights-huck-vs-rossi-britsch-vs-lyell-pulev–45180

WBO President Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel today announced the referee and judges who will work bantamweight clash of champions between Nonito Donaire and Omar Narvaez in New York City. The referee is Benjy Esteves and judges are Julie Lederman, Thomas Schreck and Steven Weisfield. Supervisor is Richard de Cuir.

Valcarcel also announced the officials for WBO cruiserweight champion Marco Huck’s defense against Rogelio Rossi in Ludwigsburg, Germany. The referee will be Paul Thomas from the United Kingdom. Judges are Carlos Colon from Puerto Rico, Denny Nelson from Uunited States and Matteo Montella D’Airola from Italy. WBO Supervisor for this fight will be Edoardo Ceccoli.

http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/donaire-narvaez-officials-99198

New York, N.Y. — WBC/WBO World Bantamweight Champion Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire and undefeated two-time world champion and current WBO Jr. Bantamweight Champion Omar Narvaez of Argentina pose during the press conference for their upcoming world title fight, Saturday, October 22 in the Theater at Madison Square Garden. Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Madison Square Garden, Donaire vs Narvaez will be televised by HBO Boxing After Dark. — Photos by Chris Farina.

http://www.boxingscene.com/photos-donaire-narvaez-face-face-new-york–45148

In an earlier report on BoxingScene.com, IBF middleweight champion Daniel Geale revealed that his management team is currently negotiating a possible unification with WBO king Dmitry Pirog for a date in late December. In the report, Geale (26-1, 15 KOs) said he was “90% certain” that a deal to fight Pirog (19-0, 15 KOs) would get finalized, with a Las Vegas venue being considered.

Pirog has now personally confirmed the serious nature of the ongoing negotiations.

“Immediately after the victory over [Danny] Jacobs when I won the world title in 2010, I asked my promoters to organize a unification fight. But, none of the other boxers wanted to fight. My promoters made proposals to various middleweight champions, but none of them responded. The only boxer willing to talk, is IBF middleweight champion Daniel Geale of Australia. Like myself, Geale is not an American. And to get on American TV, he needs a big fight. That is why our discussions are the most realistic. It is possible that we’ll reach an agreement with him. At the moment, my promoters Kyril Pchelnikov and Artie Pelullo are negotiating with Geale’s side,” Pirog said.

By Ruslan Chikov
http://www.boxingscene.com/pirog-confirms-negotiations-geale-unification-bout–45171

Following an impressive September knockout over Daniel Jimenez, NABO Junior Lightweight Champion Eloy “The Prince” Perez will return to his hometown of Salinas, California on Friday, October 28 to square off against veteran Ira Terry in the 10 round main event of TeleFutura’s “Sólo Boxeo Tecate” at the Sherwood Hall.

Perez vs. Terry headlines a night of world-class professional boxing presented by Don Chargin Productions, Golden Boy Promotions and Paco Presents, and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate. Doors open at 6:00pm, the first bell rings at 7:00pm and the TeleFutura broadcast begins at 10:30pm ET / PT.

Tickets, priced at $125, $75 and $50, are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (831) 261-0532 or (831) 905-7354, at the 2stepsahead Gym (832 South Main Street, Salinas, California) and at the Sherwood Hall on fight night.

Currently ranked third at 130 pounds by the WBO, 24-year-old Eloy “Prince” Perez (22-0-2, 6 KO’s) is closing in on his long awaited shot at a world championship, but he’s not sitting idle. Instead, he’s opting to stay busy against tough competition until he’s cleared out all opposition in his path. In 2011, Perez has shutout longtime contender Roger “Speedy” Gonzalez, and successfully defended his NABO title against Alejandro Rodriguez and Daniel Jimenez, setting the stage for his October 28 battle with Terry.

Tennessee native Ira Terry (24-6, 14 KO’s) began his professional career with a hot streak, winning 24 of his first 26 fights, and the hard-hitting 24-year-old is not a boxer who gets discouraged easily. He is doubling his efforts in the gym and is refocused knowing that if he can issue Perez his first professional loss later this month, he will have resurrected his career in the 130-pound weight class.

http://www.proboxing-fans.com/eloy-perez-to-stay-busy-fights-for-2nd-time-in-2-months-against-ira-terry-oct-28th_102011/

PAULUS ‘The Rock’ Ambunda believes that Namibians have become accustomed to seeing local boxers win, a trend that will continue on November 5.

Speaking at a press conference in Windhoek yesterday, the WBO Africa bantamweight champion promised to defeat challenger Bongani Mahlangu from South Africa in order to keep his supporters happy and defend his title for the sixth time.
Ambunda said he was confident that stablemates Bethuel ‘Tyson’ Uushona and Wilberfoce ‘Force’ Shihepo, who are undercard highlights, would back up his sentiments with victories of their own.
“We always do good,”Ambunda said of himself and his compatriots.
“The supporters come to see us because we give them good results. This time we will give them good results as always.”
Ushoona is set to battle Ghanaian powerhouse Francis Gakpetor in a welterweight eight-round bout, while ‘Force’ faces Johannes Peiterson from South Africa in the super-middleweight class, also over eight rounds.
Fight promoter Nestor Tobias echoed Ambunda’s comments, saying the fighters thrived on the support of their followers.
“People want to watch good boxing and these guys perform when there is a big crowd supporting them,” he said. “We have to keep grooming them to become more attractive to the public.”
Tobias also used the platform to have a go at the Namibia Sport Awards selectors, whom he believes have failed to recognise his efforts and those of his boxers.
Former world lightweight champion Paulus Moses and Jafet Uutoni are the only nominees from boxing that made the cut.
The pair are vying against Welwitschias captain Jacques Burger, triathlete Abrahm Louw, shooter Gielie van Wyk and cricket’s Craig Williams for the Sportsman of the Year Award.
“I’m being acknowledged internationally but locally I’m not there. I’m not saying my name should be there but we have good administration in boxing also. There are many good coaches, judges and boxers who have performed well over the last year.”

By: SHEEFENI NIKODEMUS
http://www.namibian.com.na/sport/local/full-story/archive/2011/october/article/we-dont-disappoint-says-ambunda/

WBO light welterweight champion Timothy Bradley (27-0, 11 KO’s) says he still intends on fighting IBF/WBA light welterweight champion Amir Khan in the future but that he’s going to have to wait for Bradley to face bigger tests. Right now, Khan is small time stuff compared to the money fight that Bradley has in front of him in 2012 against Manny Pacquiao.

In the latest boxing news, Bradley is saying he’ll fight Khan at either 140 lbs or 147 lbs in the future, but it’s a fight that will have to marinate a little bit more. It’s too soon right now and Khan still isn’t a pay per view star in the U.S. It would be premature for Khan and Bradley to fight each other right now.

Things have rapidly changed in the past two years. A couple of years ago, before Bradley’s promoters with his former promoters, he had been trying long and hard to get a fight against Khan but was largely ignored. But then later after Bradley become mired in legal problems with his promoter, then Khan and his promotional company wanted the Bradley fight. Of course, Khan was ignored because Bradley couldn’t fight anyone.

Bradley is fighting a tune-up bout against 40-year-old southpaw Joel Casamayor (38-5-1, 22 KO’s) on the Manny Pacquiao vs. Juan Manuel Marquez undercard at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada on November 12th. This is likely a warm-up for a fight against Pacquiao for next year. Bradley recently signed up with Top Rank Promotions, the same promoters for Pacquiao, and the president of the company Bob Arum really likes to match his Top Rank fighters against each other rather than putting them in against non-Top Rank fighters.

Pacquiao has already decimated Arum’s fighters at welterweight, beating Antonio Margarito, Joshua Clottey and Miguel Cotto in the past couple of years.

By William Mackay:
http://www.boxingnews24.com/2011/10/bradley-says-hell-get-around-to-fighting-khan-eventually/

A fight between Alexander Dimitrenko (32-1, 21 KO’s) and unbeaten WBO Intercontinental heavyweight champion Robert Helenius (16-0, 11 KO’s) is rumored to be in the works for the December 3rd undercard of the title fight between WBA heavyweight champion Alexander Povetkin and 42-year-old challenger Cedric Boswell in Helsinki, Finland.

The Helenius-Dimitrenko fight would be perfect for the card, as Helenius comes from nearby Sweden and he can pull in fans from there as well as Finland. The fight card certainly needs something to attract interest from fans because the fight between Povetkin and his number #14 ranked contender Boswell is a hopeless mismatch and no one is even remotely interested in seeing this title milking fight for Povetkin.

Helenius, 27, is ranked #1 WBO, #3 WBA, #3 IBF and #8 WBC, is considered one of the best contenders in the division as of now. He could have gotten a title shot against one of the Klitschko brothers but he and his management feels he needs a little more time before he’s thrown out there with the much better skilled Klitschkos.

Putting Helenius in with Dimitrenko would be a great transition fight for him, though, because Dimitrenko has a style very similar to Wladimir, albeit without the handspeed, power or the crushing jab. In part it would give Helenius an idea of what he’ll be up against when and if he ever faces Wladimir.

Dimitrenko is tall at 6’7″, and this would be a fight where the 6’6 1/2″ Helenius would be facing someone bigger than him for the first time in his career. It’s a risk for him because he’s been able to dominate at a distance against shorter foes and he won’t be able to do this with Dimitrenko, who has a four inch reach advantage over the big Swede. Helenius has the much better power, but he mostly throws with big power in close. If Dimitrenko keeps the fight to the outside this could be a very difficult fight for Helenius to win.

By Eric Thomas:
http://www.boxingnews24.com/2011/10/helenius-vs-dimitrenko-a-possibility-for-povetkin-boswell-undercard-on-december-3rd/

WBO Cruiserweight Champion Captain Huck (33-1, 24 KOs) could not believe his eyes when he met challenger Rogelio Rossi (17-2-1, 11 KOs) at today’s press conference in Ludwigsburg, Germany. Listed at 6’6, the “Argentinian Giant” turned out to be much smaller than that. “Maybe he shrunk of fear,” Captain Huck said. “Doesn’t matter anyway. I don’t care what size he is. I have knocked out taller and smaller opponents. I will clinch a spectacular victory on Saturday night. He will not get my title.” Huck then measured his opponent. The result: 6’3 and a half!

Rossi seemed to enjoy the confusion regarding his height. “It’s true, I’m not two meters tall,” he stated. “But I will still defeat Huck. If you’re scared, your opponent looks much bigger than he actually is. I guess this has happened to Huck. I will take his title on Saturday night. I have trained hard and I will win.”

German coaching legend Ulli Wegner said Rossi’s actual size will make no difference. “We have done sparring with tall guys and with small guys, we are prepared for everything,” he stated. “If Rossi was clever, he would have stood on tiptoes during the face-to-face to look bigger than he is. I don’t think he can cope with Huck’s explosiveness and aggressiveness anyway.”

In the co-featured main event, IBF Intercontinental Middleweight Champion Dominik Britsch (25-0, 9 KOs) defends his title against Billy Lyell (24-9, 5 KOs), while unbeaten heavyweight sensation Kubrat Pulev (13-0, 6 KOs) takes on Travis Walker (38-6-1, 30 KOs) for the IBF International Heavyweight Title.

Photos: Sauerland Event
http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/rossis-size-stuns-huck-99083

NEW YORK — Nonito Donaire is probably a few wins away from a potential showdown with Yuriorkis Gamboa becoming a realistic possibility.

And as Juan Manuel Lopez’s upset loss to Orlando Salido reminded us earlier this year, that’s entirely too far down the line to start getting all that excited about a Donaire-Gamboa bout. But count Donaire among those that hope the intriguing matchup materializes.

“The Filipino Flash” has watched Gamboa’s development closely and is eager to test himself against an unbeaten boxer Donaire considers special, yet flawed.

“He’s an amazing fighter,” Donaire said. “He has speed, power. I’ll be excited if I get the opportunity, because he’s a good fighter. I see a lot of flaws, but sometimes you see flaws and you can’t react to it. It’s different in that ring.

“But I’ve seen some flaws in him, something I can take advantage of. It’s ‘The Cyclone’ versus the ‘The Flash.’ We’ll see who’s faster, but I think ‘The Flash’ can take cyclones all day.”

Even if the Cuban-born Gamboa (21-0, 16 KOs), a Miami resident, and Donaire (26-1, 18 KOs), a native Filipino who resides in San Leandro, Calif., continue winning, getting them in the same weight class could become an obstacle.

Donaire intends to move up from 118 to 122 pounds if he wins against Argentina’s Omar Narvaez (35-0-2, 19 KOs) on Saturday night in New York, but Gamboa said after defeating Daniel Ponce De Leon (41-4, 34 KOs) on Sept. 10 in Atlantic City that he’s moving up from featherweight to at least 130 pounds in his next fight. Gamboa didn’t rule out an immediate move to lightweight, either, which would separate him and Donaire by three weight classes.

The 28-year-old Donaire doesn’t think, however, that an eventual move to lightweight will be problematic.

“I’m definitely growing,” said Donaire, who stands 5-foot-7, an inch taller than Gamboa. “[In late August] I was at 147 and I wasn’t fat. If given the opportunity to put some weight on, it’ll be easy for me to do it.”

By Keith Idec
http://www.boxingscene.com/donaire-confident-he-expose-gamboas-flaws–45139

WINDHOEK, Oct. 19 (Xinhua) — Namibia’s World Boxing Organization (WBO) Africa bantamweight champion Paulus Ambunda has said he is ready to defend his title successfully in two weeks time.

Ambunda will defend his title against South African challenger Bongani Mahlangu at the Windhoek Country Club and Resort on November 5.

The southpaw quoted by Nampa on Wednesday said his preparations for the title defence have gone very well. “I know the opponent, but I do not underestimate him. Come the 5th of November, you will all see the result,” said Ambunda.

The Namibian champion boasts a professional record of 16 fights without a loss, which compares favourably to Mahlangu’s record of 16 fights, 15 wins and one defeat.

The event will also feature eight undercard fights, with super middleweight boxer Wilbeforce Shihepo (21 fights, 15 wins and six losses) taking on South African Johannes Pieterson (22 fights, 14 wins, six losses and two draws) in an eight-round bout.

Namibia’s welterweight boxer Betuel Uushona, who holds a record of 26 fights, 25 wins and one defeat, will fight Francis Gakpetor (17 fights, 15 wins and two losses) from Ghana, also in an eight-round bout.

http://www.shanghaidaily.com/article/article_xinhua.asp?id=24359

Juan Manuel Marquez Fight Blog – Part 1

Judging from the first two fights, what aspect of Pacquiao’s game poses you the most danger heading into the third bout?

“I believe that Manny Pacquiao has become a much complete fighter, but his speed and power are still his most dangerous attributes”

Do you really believe you won the first two fights? Are you planning anything different in your approach to Pacquiao this time, especially given your belief that you won the first two fights?

“I don’t believe I won the first fight, I am sure I won them both, I just did not get the decision. I will do the same that I have always done against him, fight with intelligence, paciencen and counterpunch. My preparation will be different because I will fight at a higher weight. I have to make some changes in my diet and make sure I can still have speed and conditioning at the higher weight”

Training in Mexico City in the renowned Romanza Gym, where so many great Mexican fighters have come from, the three-time world champion Juan Manuel Marquez is getting ready for the biggest fight of an already stellar career.

HBO®’s Emmy® Award-winning all-access series “24/7” premieres an all new edition when “24/7 Pacquiao/Marquez” debuts Saturday, Oct. 22 at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. The four-part series will air for three consecutive Saturday nights before the finale airs the night before the championship showdown in Las Vegas.

The Pacquiao-Marquez III world championship telecast, which begins at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View and will be available to more than 92 million pay-per-view homes. The telecast will be available in HD-TV for those viewers who can receive HD. HBO Pay-Per-View, a division of Home Box Office, Inc., is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For Pacquiao-Marquez III fight week updates, log on to www.hbo.com

http://www.boxingscene.com/photos-fight-blog-juan-manuel-marquezs-camp-part-1–45077

Manny Pacquiao Fight Blog – Part 1

Judging from the first two fights, what aspect of Marquez’s game poses you the most danger heading into the third bout?

I know what Juan Manuel Marquez is capable of. He is one of the toughest opponents I have ever fought and I have a great deal of respect for his abilities. He is always in shape and very strong. He is the only fighter who has ever figured out my style of fighting

I cannot worry about his preparation or what he brings to the fight though I do study his fight films and do my homework on him. My main concern is how I prepare for this fight. How I can be better and different from my previous fights with him. In that respect the biggest danger I face is not doing everything I can do to win this fight.

Do you like to be called the Mexican Executioner?
I do not like the name Mexicutioner. I love the Mexican boxing fans and that name does not reflect my true feelings about Mexico and its people.

Are you planning anything different in your approach to Marquez this time, especially given how close the decisions were in the first two fights?

I am planning to be different for this third fight because I am a different fighter from our two previous fights. I move better laterally in both directions than before. I am more comfortable using my right hand. Before I was left-hand happy. Now I am more confident in using my right hand as an effective weapon. It’s a lot stronger then the last times we fought. I am so focused for this fight. I will bring a lot more intensity to this battle.

HBO®’s Emmy® Award-winning all-access series “24/7” premieres an all new edition when “24/7 Pacquiao/Marquez” debuts Saturday, Oct. 22 at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. The four-part series will air for three consecutive Saturday nights before the finale airs the night before the championship showdown in Las Vegas.

The Pacquiao-Marquez III world championship telecast, which begins at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View and will be available to more than 92 million pay-per-view homes. The telecast will be available in HD-TV for those viewers who can receive HD. HBO Pay-Per-View, a division of Home Box Office, Inc., is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For Pacquiao-Marquez III fight week updates, log on to www.hbo.com

http://www.boxingscene.com/photos-fight-blog-manny-pacquiaos-camp-part-1–45087

WBO junior welterweight champion Timothy Bradley recently appeared on the latest edition of ‘The Boxing Lab,’ BoxingScene.com’s official audio show. Bradley debuts under the Top Rank banner on the Manny Pacquiao-Juan Manuel Marquez undercard on November 12th at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. He faces former champion Joel Casamayor.

Bradley on his upcoming fight versus Joel Casamayor:

“Casamayor is still strong. He may be older but power is the last thing to go. He has a reason to get up for this fight. I have everything to lose and he has everything to gain. He is a dirty fighter and knows the tricks of the trade. I am going to have a talk with the ref before the fight. if Casamayor gets dirty with me then you know I will get him back eventually. The ref better do what he is supposed to do because I am going to do what I have to do. I am going to shine on the 12th. He can bring his momma in the ring and I will get her too. It doesn’t matter.”

Bradley on when he knew it was time to change promoters:

“When I fought in Silverdome (in Pontiac, MI) it was the last draw. That fight should have been in LA, Vegas or NY. That is when I knew it was time to make a move. The Bradley brand will be built by Top Rank. I have 3 belts and no one knows who I am. I can walk down the street and people don’t know who I am. My former promoters did all that they good and I am thankful for that but Top Rank will take me to the next level.”

Bradley’s thoughts on Manny Pacquiao’s upcoming fight versus Juan Manuel Marquez:

“To be honest with you I think Marquez will hang with him early but if Manny doesn’t cramp up I think he will get him out of there. Marquez seems to have his number but it has been some years since they last fought. Manny is a different beast now.”

Bradley’s thoughts on the ending of the Floyd Mayweather-Victor Ortiz fight:

“No disrespect to Ortiz but he made a rookie mistake. You live and you learn. To me… apologizing….come on man. One time is good. You learn in the amateurs that one apology from a distance is fine. Floyd did sneak him but you know what, after getting headbutted in the mouth who wouldn’t do that?

Bradley on Ortiz’s reaction to the first punch that ultimately led to him being knockout out:

I don’t get this part. If you get hit by a hook like Floyd hit him with wouldn’t your first instinct be to put your hands up or duck? if I went up to you and popped you in the mouth wouldn’t you put your hands up? Just like in a street fight your natural instinct would be to protect yourself. If he would have put his hands up he would have never got knocked out. He would have just got staggered (by the first punch) but instead he just looked over at the ref. He made a rookie mistake. He is young and strong but like Floyd said he had experience. If it was me I wouldn’t even have apologized. He had just gotten Floyd flustered. Isn’t that what he wanted?

Bradley on his preference in facing Pacquiao or Mayweather:

I would prefer to fight Pacquiao than Mayweather. Stylistically he fits to my game. His speed and quickness I can match up with. Mayweather is more of a defensive fighter. I think a fight with Pacquiao would be more exciting.

By Ryan Burton
http://www.boxingscene.com/bradley-talks-casamayor-pacquiao-mayweather-more–45070

SAMSON Gello-ani proved that he is one of the best promoters in the Asian region after he was awarded the WBO Asia Pacific Promoter of the Year.

The awarding took place during the “Back with a Vengeance” fight card featuring Marvin “The Marvelous” Sonsona, who won against Mexican Carlos Jacobo at the Hoopsdome in Lapu-Lapu City last Saturday.

The award is Gello-ani’s fifth straight Promoter of the Year title. His first award was won in 2007.

“I was a consistent WBO bout promoter and they find me very hardworking when it comes to promoting world class fights,” said Gello-ani.

Gello-ani mentioned that he has already staged numerous WBO championships here and outside the country, including the Asia Pacific and Oriental championships. This year he promoted an Asia Pacific and Oriental championship bout.

Gello-ani started promoting boxing in 1987 by doing amateur fight cards in Cebu city and stepped up to pro boxing in the early 1990’s under boxing patron Antonio L. Aldeguer.

“I worked hard for this job, maybe that’s why I am here right now showcasing world class boxers to the Filipinos worldwide.” /CORRESPONDENT DALE G. ROSAL

Gello-ani is WBO Asia Pacific Promoter of Year

Back by popular demand and fresh off a monster 2nd round KO victory over Daniel Jimenez, undefeated 22-0, 6KO’s NABO Super Featherweight Champ Eloy “The Prince” Perez, steps into the ring once again to defend his title against Ira Terry 24-6, 14KO’s of Memphis, TN, on October 28th at Sherwood Hall, Salinas, CA, broadcast live on Telefutura. Promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Don Chargin Productions and Paco Presents.

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring again so soon after my great KO victory in my last fight I want to thank my opponent for stepping up on such short notice,I look forward to giving my fans an amazing fight and a victory”-Eloy Perez.

Ticket info and prices:
VIP $125, RINGSIDE $75, RESERVE $50

(831) 261-0532, Espanola (831) 905-7354 or in person at 2stepsahead gym located at 832 South Main Street, Salinas and at the door on the night.

FRANKIE GAVIN will return to the ring on October 28 against Frenchman Frank Haroche Horta.

The fight is Gavin’s first since leaving trainer Anthony Farnell and relocating to East London to work with brothers Jimmy and Mark Tibbs.

And the WBO Intercontinental welterweight champion is determined to make it a night to remember at Manchester’s Bowlers Exhibition Centre.

Funtime Frankie, who is undefeated in 11 bouts, said: “I’ve been working on new and different things in the gym with Jimmy and Mark and I’m looking forward to putting on a great show.

“This will also be my debut on new fight channel BoxNation so I’m looking to make a big impression with the viewers as well.

“My trainers have been working me hard in the gym and now it’s up to me to perform on the night and show that I’m the best young talent out there.”

Gavin, 26, added: “Horta looks likes a tough fighter. I’ve seen some clips of him on the internet but I think I’ll have his measure after a few rounds and take him out.

“He’s never been stopped in 39 fights so it’s a massive incentive for me, but I won’t be rushing in and being careless.”

Southpaw Horta, 31, is a former French welterweight champion and IBF International light-middleweight champion

By GAVIN GLICKSMAN
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/boxing/3850438/Frankie-Gavin-is-out-to-impress.html

The WBO Latino Jr. Lightweight and undefeated Luis “El Artesano” Cruz stated today that he is physically fit, just days before his showdown against Antonio Davis. The fight will be the co-main event for the clash between Yuriorkis Gamboa and Daniel Ponce de León, this coming Saturday, September 10th, at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ.

“I am in excellent physical condition for this next fight. I prepare very well for all of my fights, but since I was crowned Latino champion, each engagement is more challenging and more difficult. So we have worked hard for this one”, Cruz stated after finishing a workout for the media in the Caimito Gym in San Juan.

Cruz (18-0, 14 KOs) is focused on securing a convincing victory over Davis (28-6, 13 KOs), an experienced and seasoned fighter, a native of Atlanta, Georgia.

“I want to make a good impression in my victory this coming Saturday in Atlantic City. From now on every fight means a lot and I will be in the center of many eyes. I will be crowned world champion. I will beat Davis convincingly. I have trained with my trainer Freddy Trinidad and we have a good strategy,” predicted Cruz.

On his experience fighting at 130 pounds, Cruz emphasized once more that he feels stronger.

“I can tell you that I feel stronger and faster at 130 pounds. I make my meals normally but with smaller portions”, stated Cruz, who began his career at 126 pounds. Cruz finally talked about his future after this fight.

“The first step now is to beat Davis strongly. We should be back in the ring on November 12 on Pacquiao-Marquez 3, which is good for me because I will be seen on a mega fight card with a great opportunity for the fans to see me in action. I am a few steps away from being crowned world champion and I want to thank my promoters Miguel Cotto Promotions and Top Rank,” he concluded.

“El Artesano” will leave for Atlantic City with his team this coming Wednesday, September 7th on a U.S. Airways flight at 8:45 am.

http://www.boxingscene.com/photos-luis-cruz-training-hard-gamboa-card–43420

Telstra Clear Events Centre, Manukau City, New Zealand – Heavyweight veteran Monte Barrett (35-9-2, 20KOs) won a twelve round unanimous decision over David Tua (54-4-2, 43KOs). The scores were 114-113, 115-112 and 115-112. Barrett captures the WBO Asia Pacific and WBO Oriental heavyweight titles.

The fight was a rematch of their twelve round majority draw from last July in Atlantic City, which saw Tua get dropped for the first time in his career in the twelfth round.

Tua was very sluggish from the very start. Barrett had few issues with landing his punches. A cut opened up above Tua’s right eye in the third round. Tua began to pick up the action in the fourth.

Barrett was using his jab to control the action. Tua was making the mistake of resorting to a heavy amount of counter-punching. Tua landed a few good lefts in the sixth, but Barrett took them well and countered back.

Tua started landing his right hand in the seventh. Barrett switched his stance to avoid further punches. Barrett continued to use his jab to set up other punches. He was moving, making Tua follow and miss.

Tua started to rally again in the tenth round with big left hands there were landing. He hit Barrett with a big combination in the final minute and Barrett was in big trouble. Barrett stayed on the move with Tua not throwing anything. Instead of trying to finish Barrett off, Tua was playing to the crowd.

They were trading punches in the eleventh round. Barrett’s legs did not look steady and yet he was still outlanding Tua during exchanges. In the final ten seconds, Tua caught Barrett again and started working him over until the bell.

Tua, knowing that he was likely behind on the cards, was looking for one big shot in the twelfth. Barrett was holding and surviving. In the final minute, Tua landed a big combination of punches to send Barrett down for the first time in the fight. Barrett barely made it up and somehow Tua once again let him off the hook with thirty seconds left and he survived until the final bell.

By Chris LaBate
http://www.boxingscene.com/barrett-likely-ends-david-tuas-career-with-big-win–42608

On his home patch in South Auckland, with blood and a smirk splattered on his face, David Tua was shocked when his return to the heavyweight division was quashed tonight with American Monte Barrett awarded a unanimous point’s decision.

Barrett is the only man to knock Tua to the canvas and appeared to be out on his feet in the last rounds.

He was knocked down in the 12th and struggled to get up but must have done enough in the early rounds to convince the judges.

The sold out crowd’s raptures turned to stunned glances when the decision was announced. They thought their Samoan-born Kiwi had his redemption revenge.

Tua bided his time and picked his moments, slowly building his power and intent as the bout progressed, but wit the loss, just the fourth of his career, means he gives up the WBO Asia Pacific and Oriental belts. The 38-year-old said he would not retire but will take time out to consider his credible future in the sport.

Barrett kept the initially inactive and sluggish Tua at bay with his reach advantage and left jabs in the first three rounds. With a flurry of punches and his go-to overhand right hook bearing down, Barrett had Tua bleeding from a small cut above his right eye. The visitor was well on top, but briefly.

Tua was patient. He waited for an opening, a weakness in Barrett’s defence. The infamous left hook made a belated appearance at the end of the fourth round, as he lifted.

But Tua began to consistently rock the 40-year-old New Yorker with powerful combinations and a busier work rate. Barrett slipped behind in the points as the fight changed complexion. “Two Gunz” was out of ammunition, but he did enough early.

Tua hurt Barrett in the 10th round, pinning him against the ropes. He raised his arms in delight to the crowd and thought it was in the bag. Barrett appeared done. The judges thought otherwise.

The 3000-strong, vocal crowd waited through the undercards expectantly and booed Barrett on arrival. Tua received a standing ovation. There was an airy, yet electric atmosphere about this belt. It was career-defining for both fighters. The winner would carry on; the twilight loser faced an uncertain future.

Tua admitted, from his heart, Barrett should have won their first fight in Atlantic City last year, which led you to believe he was motivated and would deliver. He did that, but left it too late.

He needed a statement, either a knockout or convincing point’s victory, to ripple the division of giants that has become stagnant. His last convincing performance was too long ago, against Shane Cameron in October, 2009. Ultimately the 38-year-old was chasing a second world title shot after his defeat to Lennox Lewis in 2000. This could have been a stepping stone. He will now struggle to gain another.

In matching records alone, Tua’s impressive 52-3-2 scorecard dwarfed Barrett’s 34-9-2 in both experience and class. But records often don’t make it into the ring. As was the case tonight.
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New Zealand’s next heavyweight hope, 19-year-old amateur Joseph Parker, easily took care of Australian Nathan Mackay in a three round contest. Parker forced Mackay into two standing eight counts and spit his nose as he builds up to next month’s World Games in Azerbaijan, where he can qualify for next year’s London Olympics.

By: LIAM NAPIER
http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/other-sports/5441460/David-Tua-loses-on-unanimous-points-decision

Promising Froilan “The Sniper” Saludar, known for his awesome punching power goes for the WBO Asia Pacific flyweight title in a clash with former WBC International minimum weight champion Gabriel “Big Gunz” Pumar at the Island Cove Hotel and Leisure Park in Kawit, Cavite on Saturday.

The fight card will be telecast over AKTV Channel 13 at 9:00 p.m.

Saludar, brother of Asian Games gold medalist Ray Saludar is undefeated in 13 bouts with 12 wins, one draw and 9 knockouts.

He won the WBO Asia Pacific Youth title with a smashing 1st round knockout of Remuel Obidos on November 20, 2010 and followed this up with a 2nd round TKO over tough Jecker Buhawe in his first title defense on December 22, 2010.

Saludar scored a devastating 1st round TKO last February 19 in the boxing hotbed of Cavite over Thailand’s Liempetch Sor Veerapol who had previously given current WBO flyweight champion Brian Viloria a difficult time before Viloria won by a 7th round TKO.

In his last title defense Saludar knocked out Indonesia’s Jack Amisa who had 38 fights in his career with 20 wins in the very first round, once again demonstrating the WBO world No. 4 ranked contender’s punching power.

Although his opponent Pumar has lost his last two fights against Japanese opponents, his experience fighting abroad against some top class opponents including world champion Nkosinathi Joyi is expected to help him in trying to cope with the power of Saludar.

Pumar won the WBC International minimum weight title with the Filipino southpaw scoring a stunning 7th round TKO over fancied Tshepo Lefele in South Africa on March 31, 2006. He also put on a fine showing in a close ten round loss to current WBA flyweight champion Daiki Kameda on May 13, 2009 in Japan.

Since the loss to Kameda, Pumar won four fights in a row including three by knockouts. He has a record of 16-6-1 with 9 knockouts.

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