Arguello: "Talk Softly but Carry
a Big Stick"

Note: I wrote this article several years ago. Alexis was one of my all time favorites. I'm shocked and deeply sad at the news of his passing. He was a true gentleman and a credit to the sport. May he rest in peace.

One of the best pure punchers of my generation was Alexis Arguello. He was aptly nicknamed "The Explosive Thin Man." He was tall and rail thin but his punch could stop an opponent dead in his tracks.

It's hard to believe that Alexis was stopped in the very first round of his pro debut in his native Managua, Nicaragua. He would rally to win three straight then lose again. Hardly the makings of a legend.

Alexis would reel off twenty straight wins before his next loss. Then came thirteen more victories including knockouts over Octavio Gomez and Jose Legra. This led to a shot at the WBA featherweight title in 1974. The champion was the talented Ernesto Marcel of Panama. Alexis lost a fifteen round decision. MORE

Quotes from Bobby Gunn Workout

Hackensack P.A.L., Hackensack, NJ

Photo Credits: Tom Casino

“I took this fight because I wanted to fight the best. Tomasz Adamek is the best. The man is a champion inside and outside the ring. I would have taken this fight for any amount of money they gave me. This is not about financial profit. This is about my chance to show everyone that I can be the best.”

“None of the Top 10 would fight Tomasz Adamek. I call them ‘Nancy Boys or ‘Fancy Pants’, they’re like prima donnas. What’s the sense of being ranked if you don’t want to fight the best in the world? When you are Top 10 you have to fight all the best. I want to fight Adamek, he is the best and I want to beat the best. " MORE

Alexis Arguello - R.I.P.

The boxing world is deeply sadden to learn the news this past week that Alexis Arguello has died. I will go on record to say that he was in my list of the 25 greatest boxers of all time.

Born in Managua, Nicaragua on April 19, 1952, Alexis started his career in 1968 and won 35 of his first 37 bouts, 29 by knockout and 11 in the first round. In his first attempt to win a world title, he lost a 15 round decision to Panamanian WBA featherweight Champion Ernesto Marcel in his home town of Panama City, February 16, 1974. He would go on to win the title later that same year, in November, a 13^th round knockout win over Ruben Olivares. MORE

Giovanni Lorenzo Wants His Turn 

Number One World Middleweight contender Giovanni Lorenzo of New York and the Dominican Republic has waited very patiently for his shot at the world title. The former Dominican Olympian has compiled an impressive 27-1, 19 KO record while quietly toiling under the tutelage of trainer Pastor Ralph Farriett of Yonkers for the past seven years.

“I want to be the world champion,” the soft spoken Lorenzo says. “That is my goal and nothing will stop me.”

Lorenzo should get his chance this Fall. He is currently the mandatory challenger for Arthur Abraham, the undefeated IBF Middleweight Champion.

“I’m already training and I want my chance at the title,” Lorenzo said from his home in the Dominican Republic. “I am tired of waiting in line. Tell Abraham’s people to get on the phone and start the negotiation.”

Today IBF put those wheels in motion when they sent a letter to Abraham’s promoter, Sauerland Event, advising them that negotiations for a Lorenzo fight should start immediately. MORE

Former World Title Challenger David Telesco Returns

On July 16th Star Boxing's former light heavyweight title challenger, David Telesco (29-6-1, 24KO) will once again step inside the squared circle under the Star Boxing banner, when he takes on New Jersey's own William Gil in an eight round light heavyweight affair. Telesco v. Gil will be the main event bout of the evening. The card is being held at the beautiful Hilton Rye Town hotel, located in the New York City suburb of Rye, NY, and is ten minutes east of White Plains, NY in Westchester County. Situated on 45 beautifully landscaped acres of lush woodlands, the Hilton Rye Town hotel is Westchester County, New York's premier hotel, combining the relaxed setting of a resort with the flexibility of a full-service business hotel.

For the fan favorite Telesco, who lives in nearby Portchester, NY, it will be somewhat of a homecoming, as it will be the first time Telesco has fought in the Westchester County area since 2001. Telesco, who has been in- active since 2005, is excited to be returning to the ring especially in front of his hometown fans. MORE

Adamek vs. Gunn

IBF Cruiserweight Championship Undercard Announced

Fans of Main Events Boxing Series have come to anticipate a night of great boxing entertainment when they come to “The Rock”. On Saturday, July 11^th that tradition will continue! The main event will feature IBF Cruiserweight Champion, Tomasz Adamek of Glowice, Poland and Jersey City, 37-1, (25 KO’s) as he defends his title against Hackensack, NJ’s, Bobby “The Celtic Warrior” Gunn 18-3-1, (15 KO’s). This event is promoted by Main Events and Ziggy Promotions. Seven exciting matches are slated for the undercard.

In an 8 round Welterweight battle, Paterson’s own, undefeated, Henry Crawford, 21-0-1 (9 KO’s) will take on Kaseem Wilson of Philadelphia, PA, 12-1-1, (4 KO’s). There are a number of southpaws in the Welterweight division but this will be Crawford’s first challenge against a left-handed opponent. MORE

It Hurts Me to Say This

What in the golly heck is going on in boxing. Never before in the history of the sport have we seen so many bouts cancelled due to “injury”. TSR, rightfully so, took Russian heavyweights to tasks for “injury” cause delays or cancellations. Now everybody’s gotten into the act. The latest Yodsanan “3K Battery” Nanthachai who bowed out of his June 26^th match up with Ruskie Sergey Sorokin. This fade out took place 17 days before the opening bell.

This was just days before TSR got the following request from Sir Frog who emailed from the lily pad disguised as a fine Belgium restaurant. “Hope Yodsanan gets back to the top. He deservers it! Keep me updated on him.” Done. Not to cast aspiration on today’s boxers but they do seem a little frail. Years ago The Lord of the Manor was playing rodeo and broke his wrist. He was seen at a rodeo the following week. “You entered ?” “No broke my wrist.” “Hummmmm long way from your heart. MORE

Fight Promoter University Graduate Gregg Holtzman Doing Big Things with First MMA Promotion in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, PA June 9 - Over the past five years, the explosion of mixed martial arts has led many to see this exciting sport as the "in" thing to invest in when it comes to fight promotion. Most have failed in their attempts. But looking to break that mold and show how a rookie fight promoter should do things is Pittsburgh's Gregg Holtzman, who's UCFC (Ultimate Cage Fighting Challenge) company makes its debut on June 27 with Rumble on the Rivers!

Not only is this the first pro MMA show in Western Pennsylvania, but it's being held in the prestigious Mellon Arena, and Holtzman has pulled out all the stops in bringing the best in the game to that arena. Former UFC and WEC standouts like Rich Clementi, Steve Bruno, and Micah Miller fill the card, former Pittsburgh Steelers great Carlton Haselrig will also be in action, and the legendary Tito Ortiz will be in town all week to help promote this event. Holtzman also made sure tickets were affordably priced from $30 to $70. MORE

Cotto Escapes Clottey 

On June 13 in front of a boisterous flag-draped Puerto Rican crowd at Madison Square Garden in New York City, WBO Welterweight (147) Champion Miguel Cotto (34-1, 27 KO’s) narrowly eeked out a razor-thin split decision over former champion Joshua Clottey (35-3, 20 KO’s) to retain his title in a classic war of attrition. 

Packing a combined record of 68 wins and 47 knockouts there was bound to be fireworks when these two evenly matched forces collided, but both fighters left nothing to chance with an extremely relaxed and ripped Clottey commented pre-fight “This was my best camp where I went away and was able to concentrate on my training. I am ready for anything he brings.” 

Cotto, on the other hand, had a violent break-up with his feuding trainer about tactics just nine weeks before this fight, but nevertheless managed to get in a good training camp. MORE

Jimmy Ellis

Jimmy Ellis started his career as a middleweight in 1961 and through 1964 he lost five bouts to top middleweight contenders Holly Mims, Henry Hank, Rubin Carter, Don Fuller and George Benton.

By the time he blasted out Johnny Persol in one round in 1967, he had grown into a heavyweight. He swept the WBA elimination tournament by beating Leotis Martin, Oscar Bonavena and Jerry Quarry. Jimmy twice had the iron jawed Bonavena on the canvas, something Joe Frazier could not do in 25 rounds of fighting.

Against Frazier, Ellis weighed in over 200 pounds. He looked flabby and after a few rounds became sluggish. The following year Jimmy met his long time friend Muhammad Ali. Jimmy was in great shape at 189 pounds. His muscles were tight and he looked fit. MORE

In Rusty’s Corner

There’s nothing really new about a fighter, even a top one, taking time off and getting injured sparing bit before his comeback fight. Such injuries are almost always the end result of ring rust. No mater your age or how well conditioned you are, it’s not a but unusual.

Such is the case of Floyd Mayweather Jr. who was planning a comeback fight against a very tough, experienced Juan Manuel Marquez.

The game plan was to beat Marquez and then get into the squared circle with Manny Paquiao for the honor of being considered the top boxer on this planet. MORE

Star Boxing Wins Purse Bid

Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing won the purse bid for the Vacant IBF Welterweight Championship of the World between Star Boxing's IBF #2 rated Delvin Rodriguez (24-2-2, 14KO) and IBF #3 rated Isaac Hlatshwayo (28-1-1, 10KO). The winning bid was $136,000.00. Star Boxing, who promotes Rodriquez, beat out the bid of Branco Sports Productions, whose bid was $127,500.

Rodriguez and Hlatshwayo are familiar with one another. The two fought back on November 17th, 2008, in Hlatshwayo's home country of South Africa in an official IBF welterweight title eliminator. While the bout was ruled a draw, many who witnessed the fight, including a large majority of the South African press, felt Rodriguez deserved the victory. Now Rodriguez will have a chance to get his revenge and this time with Star winning the bid, the fight will likely take place on U.S. soil.

The fight will be promoted by Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing and should be officially announced shortly.

A Champion Dad

Although he holds the title of IBF World Cruiserweight Champion, Tomasz Adamek (37-1, 25 KO’s) considers his most important title to be “Dad”. In Polish the word for Dad is Tatus`. Currently in training for his July 11^th Cruiserweight title defense against Bobby Gunn (21-3-1, 18 KO’s**) at Prudential Center Newark, Adamek never loses sight of what is truly important to him. “Everything I do, I do for my children”, says Adamek. This Sunday, after attending church with his family, Adamek will celebrate Father’s Day with a home cooked meal.

Pictured here having fun at the park with his two daughters, 9 year old Weronika and 12 year old Roksana. Photos credits: Marcin Kondek, Maciej Wojciek/Press Chicago.

Tickets for the fight start at $38 and are available through TicketMaster or at Prudential Center Box Office. Group discounts are available. Tickets, priced at $38, $53, $78, $103 and $253 (ringside), can be purchased at Prudential center Box Office, by calling Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000 or visiting Prucenter.com. First fight will be 7:00pm.

A Fan Festival will be held outside Prudential center at Entry Plaza, corner of Edison and Mulberry Streets beginning 5:00pm. Food, beverages, music and fun!

**Gunn’s record as reported by BoxRec 21-3-1, 18 KO’s. Record as per Fight Fax 18-3-1, 15 KO’s.

"Irish" Frankie Crawford

He was a world class featherweight in the late 1960's and early 70's. He twice fought for a piece of the world title. He was from my hometown of Cleveland. His name was Frankie Crawford.

Frankie grew up in the East 65th, St. Clair area of Cleveland. Tough area then. Tough area now. Crawford grew up learning to defend himself. He learned well. He won the 1965 Cleveland Golden Gloves. He was told for a small boxer to make money, he needed to go to California. Frankie heeded that advice. He turned pro in LA in 1965. He became an immediate crowd pleaser and draw for West Coast promoters.

On October 5, 1967 Frankie met the once beaten "Golden Boy", the teenage whiz kid Mando Ramos. Mando walked out with his second career loss. Four months later the prodigy Ramos avenged the decision. Nevertheless Crawford had earned a ton of respect. Frankie's career took a major hit in 1968 when he was stopped in eight by the talented Dwight Hawkins. Frankie would bounce back. MORE

Ricky, Roy, and Robberies

A big favorite of the Lord of the Square Ring is Boxing Hall of Fame’s Joe Kozumi. Joe writes, eats and sleeps boxing in his native Japan. He also isn’t afraid to let people know what he thinks. Recently in figthnews.com he reported that formerly world rated Japan-based Mexican Kenbun Martinez Torres, son of a former world champ, was arrested for robbing a female taxi driver of $60.00. His father is ex-WBC light-fly champ German Torres. Kozumi also laid a little advice on dad. “German, scold your bad son!” 

A DONDE’ HATTON

Where and what “Goethe” Ricky Hatton? Good question. His last two loses have proved that those that questioned his ability against the top’s of the division were right. A match against De La Hoya was a possibility but that went down the drain when De La Hoya waved ‘adios’. Maybe a final fight in Manchester. One named mentioned is Australian lightweight Michael Katsidis (25-2). Katsidis only two L’s came against Joel Casamayor and a split decision loss to Juan Diaz. Katsidis was born in the land of “Shrimp on the Barbie’s” but like all smart Aussie’s, lives in Pattaya. Where the living is good. MORE

Urango Ready and On Target for Big Saturday Night

On Saturday night, Juan Urango attempts to become one of the select few fighters to win world championships in two weight classes, and he is on target for his championship bout against Andre Berto after weighing in at 153.4 pounds during the mandatory WBC seven-day weigh in. On Friday, Urango will be required to weigh-in at the welterweight limit of 147 pounds.

Berto vs Urango, a 12 round bout for the WBC welterweight championship of the world, is presented by DiBella Entertainment and Seminole Warriors Boxing and will be televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark beginning at 9:45 pm ET / 6:45pm PT. In the televised co-feature, junior middleweights Alfredo Angulo and Kermit Cintron will slug it out. MORE

Public Invited to Bellator Fighting Championships Weigh-in Ceremony 

WHAT: The media and fans are invited to the weigh-in ceremony for the Bellator Fighting Championships event at The Monroe Civic Center Arena. There is no admission charge for entry.

WHERE/WHEN: The weigh-in will be held on Thursday, May 28, 2009, in the Bayou Room in the Monroe Civic Center at 2:00 pm. The Bellator Fighting Championships event will be held the following night, Friday, May 29. MORE

Keeppunching Entertainment CEO Kerry Daigle and Bellator CEO Bjorn Rebney announced at last Tuesday’s press conference that any military personnel who arrive in uniform and/or present a Military ID will be admitted free and be seated in their own designated section of the arena.

Military Personnel in Uniform Admitted Free to MMA Event

Military personnel, active, reserve, National Guard and veteran will be welcomed to the Bellator Championship Semifinals at the Monroe Civic Center next Friday evening without charge. Keeppunching Entertainment CEO Kerry Daigle and Bellator CEO Bjorn Rebney announced at last Tuesday’s press conference that any military person who arrives in uniform or presents a Military ID will be admitted free and be seated in their own designated section of the arena.

“We are honoring our people in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, honoring National Guard and veterans, as well as our semi-finalist, Damien Stelly, by making this special offer,” says Daigle. Stelly, an All-American wrestler, is also a World FIAS Champion, Georgia Golden Gloves champion, 2002 Amateur Athletic Union Freestyle Wrestling national champion and a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.  In addition to being an extremely well-rounded and dangerous fighter, Damien “The Omen” Stelly is also a Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Army and has completed three tours in Afghanistan with the U.S. Army Rangers. MORE

The Return of “Smokin” Bert Cooper

He was being hailed as the “next Smokin Joe Frazier” when he turned pro under the guidance of the former world heavyweight champ in 1984.

Bert Cooper was really only a cruiser at the time, with a 9-1 amateur record and coming out of Sharon Hill, just outside the city of Philadelphia. Two of the people he sparred with daily were Marvis Frazier, and his cousin Rodney. Both were established by the time Cooper turned pro.

Cooper won his first 10 fights, 9 by knockout, all inside of 3 rounds, mostly in Atlantic City. He was put in with Baltimore’s Reggie Gross, 16-3, who had just defeated previously unbeaten Jimmy Clark. “I thought I won every round until he thumbed me in the 8th round,” said Cooper. The fight was stopped by now Pennsylvania commissioner Rudy Battle who was the referee. MORE

Retired Boxer, Meldrick Taylor tells
his story in his new book
“2 Seconds from Glory”

The unadulterated truth and the personal account of Meldrick Taylor: Twenty years later and the controversy continues.

The Retired Boxers Foundation is an IRS 501(c) 3 nonprofit corporation that exists to assist retired professional boxers in the transition from their glorious days in the ring to a dignified retirement. In the spirit of our mission, the Retired Boxers Foundation is proud to assist Meldrick Taylor, a former Olympic gold medalist and world boxing champion in two weight classes, in promoting his personal autobiography, “2 Seconds from Glory.”

The book is clearly controversial, but we respect the right of any retired fighter to make a living, and Meldrick is entitled to write his own autobiography, from what ever perspective he feels in his heart,” says Retired Boxers Foundation founder, Alex “The Bronx Bomber” Ramos, whose organization has helped Meldrick and continues to help him by announcing the release of this book.

Taylor, one of many boxing champions hailing from the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, learned his craft in the gyms of his hometown and posted a 99-4 record as an amateur fighter. In 1984, Taylor earned a spot on the 1984 U.S. Olympic team at the age of 17, and claimed the gold medal in the featherweight division. Following his victory, he joined the professional ranks. MORE

Louisiana Governor’s Games Boxing to Be Held in Lafayette

Some of the nation’s top amateur boxers will be headed to Lafayette June 19-21 when the city hosts the revived Louisiana Governor’s Games Boxing Championships.

The three-day event is scheduled for the Lafayette High School gymnasium and is part of the state’s signature sporting event for amateur sports enthusiasts.

The Governor’s Games features 52 sporting events held between March and the end of June and are in their 18^th year of existence with more than 20,000 competitors expected to take part this year. The Games opened in late March with Tae Kwan Do competition in Baton Rouge, and a complete list of Governor’s Games events is available online at www.LaGovernorsGames.org. MORE

Robert 'The Ghost' Guerrero Headlines ESPN's "Friday Night Fights" Against Johnnie Edwards at HP Pavilion in San Jose, June 12, 2009

Undercard Features Undefeated World Class Prospects in Danny Garcia, Twins Carlos and Juan Velasquez, Ashanti Jordan and Eloy Perez 

The pride of Gilroy, California, former two-time world featherweight champion Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero, returns to HP Pavilion at San Jose on June 12th to fight in front of his Northern California fans in the main event of ESPN's "Friday Night Fights" against Johnnie Edwards.
 
"We are excited to bring Robert back to his loyal hometown fans," said Oscar de la Hoya, President of Golden Boy Promotions.  "He has a huge fan base there and I know they're going to come out in force to cheer him on."
 
"It's always nice to fight close to home and when I hear those fans roar, it feels like I can knock out anyone," said Guerrero.  "I'm looking to make a statement and I expect to put on a great show for my fans on June 12th." MORE

Bellator Brings MMA World Middleweight Semi-Finals to Monroe, Louisiana

Monroe Civic Center to Host Bellator IX Mixed Martial Arts Middleweight World Championship Semi-Finals

Mayor James E. Mayo and the Monroe City Council are pleased to welcome Bellator Fighting Championships who announced today that the promotion will continue its 12 week, nationwide world championship series with its ninth event, Bellator IX, taking place at the Monroe Civic Center in Monroe, Louisiana on May 29, 2009.

The event will take place live at the Monroe Civic Center on May 29 and air exclusively on The Worldwide Leader in Sports, ESPN Deportes, May 30.

Mayor Mayo says, “We are very excited and we are very happy to have this event here in Monroe. We encourage everyone to join us for an outstanding evening in the Civic Center." MORE

Bellator Fighting Championships Press Conference Alert!

What: Press Conference for “Bellator Fighting Championships IX” featuring world-class mixed martial artists Hector Lombard vs. Damien Stelly and Jared Hess vs. Yosmany Cabezas

Who: Featuring CEO Bjorn Rebney of Bellator Fighting Championships, Kerry Daigle of Keeppunching Entertainment, Mayor James E. Mayo, and other special guests

When: Tuesday, May 19 at 10:00 am

Where: Monroe Civic Center in the B.D. Robinson Conference Hall

MONROE, LOUISIANA – Media and fans are invited to attend a press conference that will be held at 10:00 am on Tuesday, May 19, at the  Monroe Civic Center in the B.D. Robinson Conference Hall in Monroe, Louisiana.

The topic will be the upcoming “Bellator Fighting Championships IX featuring Hector Lombard vs. Damien Stelly and Jared Hess vs. Yosmany Cabezas in the Middleweight Tournament Semi-Final that will be held on Friday, May 29 at the Monroe Civic Center and televised live on ESPN DESPORTES.

The Bellator Fighting Championships are coming to Monroe, Louisiana in what may be the biggest event in the city’s history. MORE

Bellator Fights Getting Right Breaks, Big Hits on You Tube

Bellator Fighting Championships founder and CEO Bjorn Rebney isn't too proud to admit he and his new promotion have been lucky in Season 1.

"Sometimes you're dumb, sometimes you're lucky, sometimes you're both," Rebney says. "We have been incredibly fortunate."

The ambitious program — 11 fight cards in 12 weeks — has gone off with few hitches, a couple of viral-video highlights and no injuries that would play havoc with Bellator's four tournaments of eight fighters each. MORE

Mitchell Not Deterred by Loss

Former two-time world champion Byron "Gator" Mitchell says his comeback won't be derailed by one setback.
 
Mitchell took a short-notice chance at a quick bump in the world ratings and paid for it over the weekend by suffering his fifth career loss to undefeated Kazakhstan native Beibut Shumenov at the Stadium Khadjimukan in Chimkent, Kazakhstan, via TKO 4. MORE

Calling All Champions:
Kingpin Ready to Claim His Throne

On May 15th Star Boxing's undefeated heavyweight contender Kevin "Kingpin" Johnson (21-0-1, 8KO) will look to take one step closer to fighting for a world title when he takes on highly regarded, undefeated 2004 U.S. Olympic Team Captain, Devin Vargas (17-0, 7KO).

The bout will take place at Harrah's Resort in Atlantic City, NJ and be shown live as that evenings ESPN2 "Friday Night Fights" main event.

MORE

Miranda Gets Ready To Break Camp

Promises To Break Ward On May 16

Some are expecting it to be a spectacular homecoming for 2004 US Olympic Gold Medalist Andre Ward when he fights for the first time as a pro in Oakland on May 16th at the Oracle Arena. But the man he will step into the ring against that night, Colombian knockout artist Edison Miranda, has his own opinion regarding that topic.

“I may have to save up some money for property tax because on May 16th, the Oracle Arena is gonna be my house after I knock Andre Ward out,” said Miranda, just days before leaving his training camp in San Juan, Puerto Rico for the Bay Area. “The world knows that he’s never faced a puncher like me, and when you add in his glass jaw, the second I land, it’s over.”

Miranda (32-3, 28 KOs), a long-time contender in the middleweight and super middleweight divisions, has won four of his last five fights, all by knockout, with none of his opponents making it past the fifth round. He promises to add Ward to his victims list in the main event of a special Saturday primetime edition of ShoBox: The New Generation, live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast). MORE

Carlos Ivan Velasquez
Remains Undefeated

The hard hitting and devastating punching power of highly touted featherweight prospect, Carlos Ivan Velasquez, was on display last Friday May 8, 2009, when the Golden Boy Promotions rising star extended his undefeated record to (10-0, 9 KO's) by flattening Andres Ledesma in the first round.
 
In the latter half of the first round, Velasquez connected with a left hook to the body, then followed with an overhand right that dropped Ledesma. Still on shaky legs after getting up, Ledesma was hit with another crushing overhand right that put him down for good. The fight was stopped at the 2:59 mark and Velasquez was awarded a TKO victory. MORE

California BHOF Induction Dinner 2009 

As you may know, Alex "The Bronx Bomber" Ramos and Jacquie "Mother Theresa" Richardson will be inducted into the California Boxing Hall of Fame on Saturday, September 26, 2009 at Stevens Steak and Seafood House -- Crystal Ballroom, in the City of Commerce, CA. Once you read the list of inductees, you will surely see that this event is going to sell out. The luncheon is very reasonable, at $40 a person, including tax and tip. Another reason it will sell out. It starts at 11:30 and will go on forever.

As much as we would like to buy a couple of tables, we just cannot. We don't really have time to get table sponsors, so we thought it best that we let you know ahead of time, in case you want to be there with us, that we hope you understand and will make those reservations as soon as you can. MORE

In Rusty’s Corner

So, 46 year old Hector “Macho” Camacho Junior fought a main event draw with Yori Boy Campas, over 8 rounds, in Atlantic City.Who cares? If you do, why? I thought Campas won an easy decision, but that’s why I’m a boxing writer, not a boxing judge. If this fight was a main event, I ask how it ever got sanctioned. I know there are rules against age discrimination, but those rules can easily be covered by not allowing them to fight because of ‘diminished skills’? I’m not a doctor, but I do know that when an athlete reaches forty years of age or more, his skills are diminished to varying degrees. Both fighters were outstanding in their hey-day, but that hey-day has long since past. The easier fight to call was at least competitive on paper, between Bad Chad Dawson and Antonio (now past 40) Tarver. For the record it was not competitive either. Dawson won an easy unanimous decision. MORE

Pacman-Hatton Recap 

THE FIGHT

It was a circus atmosphere in Las Vegas when flooded with fans of both Ricky Hatton (singing the insidious “Hatton Wonderland”)and Manny Pacquiao. For those that like to view records Hatton went into the fight at 45-1 with only a single KO at the hands of Floyd Mayweather jr. to mar his record. Pacquiao was 48-3-2 and almost perfect since he came to the USA to defeat Lehlohonolo Ledvada via a 6^th round KO in June of 2001. He lost to Eric Morales but would later avenge that loss. With the devastation of Hatton at 2:50 of the second round he becomes only the second boxer to reign as champion in 6 different weight classes. The now retired Oscar De La Hoya was the first. For once the experts were 100% correct in that Pacquiao had too much speed and too much power for Hatton who had really not shown a lot since he beat Kostya Tszyu back in June of ’05. MORE

Oscar "Ringo" Bonavena

While Carlos Monzon may have been the greatest fighter to come out of Argentina, who was the biggest and baddest? I'll go with Oscar "Ringo" Bonavena.

When Oscar started his career in 1964, he met tough opponents like Tom McNeely and Dick Wipperman. In his first bout in 1965, he was overmatched and defeated by verteran contender Zora Folley. Oscar left New York and returned to Argentina. He defeated the vary capable Gregorio Paralta and American import, Billy Daniels. When he returned to New York in 1966, he outpointed equally rugged George Chuvalo.

Oscar was then matched with 1964 Olympic gold Medal winner, Joe Frezier. The fight was classic. Oscar had Joe down twice but Grazier came back to win a close decision. In 1867, Oscar was entered in the eight man tourney to determine the defrocked Muhammad Ali's successor. Oscar traveled to Germany and trounced southpaw Karl Mildenberger. In his next match he was floored twice and soundly beaten by the eventual tourney winner, Jimmy Ellis. Oscar regrouped in 1968 beating Folley in a rematch and also the respected, Leotis Martin. He was matched again with Joe Frazier for the New York version of the crown. Oscar fell behind early but he came back strong only to drop the verdict. MORE

by Jim Amato

Manny Pacquiao is on top of today's boxing world. He is the "Man".

His destruction of Oscar De La Hoya drove the "Golden Boy" into retirement and put him as the #1 fighter, pound for pound, in the world today.

But what if a young, prime Roberto Duran roaming the boxing landscape today? I'm talking about a lean, fit and motivated Duran. The Duran who defeated the talented Esteban DeJesus in their rubber match at 135 pounds. The Duran that practically shut out the gritty Carlos Palomino and handed the gifted Sugar Ray Leonard his first loss at 147 pounds. How would Manny match up with THAT Duran. MORE

Great Speakers and Fight Action Included

14 outstanding guest speakers and great fight action will highlight the sixth session of Fight Promoter University, it was announced today by FPU founder and promoter Roy Englebrecht.

The Fight Promoter University VI session is set for August 13th thru August 16th in Irvine, California.

A guest speaker line up will feature experts from both the boxng and mixed martial arts field, covering all aspects of the fight promotions business. Plus all attendees will be part of SummerFist 3 on Saturday, August 15th.

For all information on Fight Promoter University VI, and to register online go to www.fightpromoteruniversity.com.

Star Boxing and Russo's on the bay:
VIP Boxing on April 28th

On April 28th Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing will present an exciting night of boxing at the elegant Russo's On The Bay in Howard Beach, NY. The show will be the first installment of Star Boxing's new series, "VIP Boxing."

VINNY MADDALONE

Headlining the show will be Queen's own heavyweight fan favorite Vinny Maddalone (31-5, 22KO). Maddalone, with his all-action style, has been exciting crowds since he first turned pro in 1999. Maddalone carries dynamite in both his hands and is always looking to exchange heavy blows in close quarters, which is sure to make for an extremely exciting main event.

The co-feature bout of the evening features former WBO/NABO lightweight champion, Jorge "The Truth" Teron (22-1-1, 15KO), of the Bronx, NY. Teron has lightning quick hands and devastating power. Nine of his last eleven wins have come by way of knockout and at six feet tall he certainly looks like he is going to be a true force to be reckoned with in the lightweight division in the years to come. MORE

Jeeves to the Rescue (Again!)

With His Lordship safely hiding away in Phuket, pronounced "Pooo Ket", as the "P" is not silent like in Phat. Easy mistake to make. The accolades have been pouring in to your loyal servant. From a famous but protected member of the boxing fraternity comes , "this was better than his normal great stuff.....Really well written,,,,and very interesting....Thank you for keeping me informed,,,it is my best source of "what's happened?" and "What's gonna happen?" The Manservant Jeeves comes to the rescue again.
 
VALERO…Katsidis….NEXT
 
With dynamite puncher Edwin Valero (25-0) the question is what comes next? Of course the usual suspects have been mentioned. Two names stand out in Juan Manuel Marquez and Manny Pacquiao. Forget about Pacquiao for now, as his plate is full as a free loader at a Casino Buffet.

Marquez seems the most likely big name down the road soon. Valero will probably have a tune up first. Marquez at 50-4 has the really good record with only two loses since ’06. He loss to Chris John, who may be the best in the world, at 125 and he lost two points for "questionable low blows." In 08 he lost to Manny Pacquiao in a fight many, including His Lordship, though he won. Valero will next fight July 25 against someone from the TBA Family. MORE

Ouma to Fight Rosado in Co-feature on April 24 Duddy-Lyell Card

Main Events Boxing Series continues to uphold the benchmark of providing quality boxing matches and exciting entertainment for true fight fans at Prudential Center in Newark, NJ, on April 24th. In the words of matchmaker, Russell Peltz, “This is going to be a terrific show!” Fight fans will not be disappointed.

The main event is the 10 round battle between Middleweights, “Irish” John Duddy of Derry, Ireland (26-0, 17 KO’s) and Billy Lyell of Warren, OH (18-7, 3 KO’s). MORE

Anatomy of a Fight

Former middleweight champion Jermain Taylor is bigger and stronger than he ever has been in his boxing career — and he wants Carl Froch to know it. Taylor, still in the middle of an

intensive training camp in Miami, will fight as a super middleweight for the second time in his career when he tries to take Froch’s WBC Super Middleweight belt from the Englishman on April 25. “I will have a lot of power at 168 pounds," Taylor said. "Pound-for-pound he’s not the fighter I am, and he knows it. He won’t be able to hold up to the firepower I’m bringing in the ring on April 25th.” Taylor easily dispatched Jeff Lacy in his first fight at 168 pounds, and is prepared to be the aggressor and take the fight to Froch for 12 rounds. MORE

Big Earnie: That Man Could Swing!

Possibly the best heavyweight to ever come out of the state of Ohio was Earnie "The Acorn" Shavers. Born on August 31, 1945 in Alabama, his real name is Earnie Dee Shaver. He attended school in Warren, Ohio and made a name for himself as a football player. Earnie was just a great all around athlete and when the boxing bug bit him, he took to it like a duck to water.

What Earnie accomplished in boxing is phenomenal but the world championship eluded him. Nevertheless in both of his failed attempts at the crown, he left an indelible mark in the memory of those who witnessed the bouts. Earnie became a professional boxer in 1969. He won his first two fights by KO and dropped a six rounder to Stan Johnson. Two fights later he stopped J.D. McCauley, the uncle of future champion James "Buster" Douglas. In 1970 Shavers suffered his second loss. He was halted by future title challenger Ron Stander. Earnie would then run off a 32 fight win streak in which he kayoed 31 opponents. Only former WBA light heavyweight titleholder Vincente Rondon went the ten round route with him. MORE

Jermain Taylor Sets his sights
on Carl Froch

WBC World Super Middleweight Championship

Showtime Championship Boxing

April 25/MGM Grand Theater/Foxwoods Resort and Casino

"I'm going to take him in deep water and I hope he can swim"

This time, Jermain Taylor is training for one thing and one thing only. He wants his championship belt back. Taylor, who held the Middleweight Championship from 2005 through 2007, will get his shot at the WBC Super Middleweight belt when he faces current WBC titleholder Carl Froch on Saturday, April 25, on Showtime Championship Boxing from MGM Grand Theater at Foxwoods Resort and Casino in Mashantucket, Conn. The telecast will air live at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast). MORE

Jeeves, In Defense of Promoters

This edition of The Square Ring and the next four will come to you direct from the Land of Smiles where His Lordship is taking a not-well-deserved holiday. As he suffers from jet lag, among others infirmities, your loyal servant the honorable E.M.F. Jeeves will be conducting this informed class on all things boxing.

Unlike his Lordship, I like to give credit due to those that make their living as boxing promoters. Too often they are maligned, have their reputations besmirched and are the blunt of ill informed criticism. In the public ranking system they ranked ahead of only lawyers, aluminum siding salesman and members of the United States Congress. They are the fuel that runs the boxing engine. MORE

Open Letter From
Travis Hartman to Greg Sirb

In regards to losing a 4 round Decision March 7th
in York, Pennsylvania

In Rusty’s Corner

This weekend we watch a heavyweight match between two guys who know the fight game pretty well, Sam Peter who’s only two losses were to the much taller and faster Klitschko brothers takes on “Fast” Eddie Chambers at the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles.

Peter who can bang figures to hold his own against any of the smaller heavyweights, and Chambers, at 6’1, is in that category.

Chambers only really remarkable fights were a loss to Alexander Povetkin and a split decision win over Calvin Brock. Neither puts Peters fight losses against legitimate big men into question. MORE

Fabulous Louisiana Golden Gloves Tournament 

By Winston Mount-Batten

The LoUiSiAna State Golden was a FABULOUS success this past week-end (March 20-22) in Lafayette, LoUiSiAna. Hosted by ther Ragin' Cajun Boxing Club for the third straight year.

Some are calling this the most competetive Golden Gloves in LoUiSiAna history. All the bout's from the eight year-old's to the Open Division wre extremely well fought and edge of your seat exciting. Clubs from all over the state participated and a great time was had by all.
 
Ragin' Cajun boxer Chad Trahan won the "GOLDEN BOY" Outstanding Boxer Award for the second straight year. Trahan stopped all his tournament oponent's to become the new "Golden Boy" of LoUiSiAna boxing. This year's award was named the GOLDEN BOY Award in honor of former Olympic Gold Medalist and all-time great Oscar De La Hoya.
 
All Open Division boxers will advance to the Mid-South Golden Gloves Tournament of Champion regional (LA., TN., AL., MS. & ARK.). in Little Rock, Arkansas, April 9-11. Winner's in Little Rock will advance to the National Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions in Salt Lake City, Utah, May 3-9.
 
The LoUiSiAna State Golden Gloves was sponsored by THE GOVERNORS GAMES, KLFY TV10, The Daily Advertiser and 1420 KPEL ESPN Radio.

Ragin’ Cajun Boxers set for Golden Gloves!

Smokey Guidry
Bryce Landry
Eric Bui
Kaleb Vice

photos by Deidre Gogarty

Seven boxers fro the Ragin’ Cajun Boxing Club prepared for the 2009 Louisiana State Golden Gloves by boxing tough Texas opponents in the Louisiana vs. Texas tournament this past Saturday night in Crowley, Louisiana.

68 lb. Dylan Landry, a fourth grader at Prairie Elementary, was the victim of atrocious scoring by the judges, losing a decision to Jeremy Salas of Houston.

Kaleb Vice (son of former World Jr. Welterweight champion, Kenneth Vice) gave Sergio Menazares of Houston a boxing lesson in the 132 lb. division. Vice looked well prepared for his attempt to win the Golden Gloves for the second time.

Brandon Schoeffler a thirteen year-old Edgar Martin Middle School, eighth grader looked to be the winner in his hard fought battle with John Salas of Houston in the 85 lb. weight division. The judges however thought otherwise. The capacity crowd let out a roar of disapproval as they were convinced that Schoeffler had won.

132 lb. St. Leo Seton student Bishop Campbell was out pointed by Zachary Belcher of Dallas in one of the evening’s most exciting bouts.

Smokey Guidry was dominant in his victory over Kenny Acevedo of Houston at 165 lbs.

MORE

Louisiana Golden Gloves
Returns to Lafayette Friday-Sunday

Louisiana’s top amateur boxers will be participating in the state’s premier boxing event this Friday-Sunday, March 20-22, when the Louisiana Golden Gloves comes to Lafayette for the third consecutive year.

More than 200 boxers – from eight-year-olds up to age 70 and over – will descend on the Lafayette High School gymnasium for the three-day event that will qualify fighters for the Mid-South Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions later this year. MORE

Revenge for “The Road Warrior”
Johnson Beats Judah,
Sets Sights on Dawson Again

Friday night at the Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Florida, former world light heavyweight champion Glen “The Road Warrior” Johnson finally got his chance to put his controversial 2003 draw with Daniel Judah to rest, and he made the most of his opportunity, scoring a near shutout 10-round decision over his opponent in the main event of ESPN2 Friday Night Fights.

“It was great to get this victory and right a wrong from six years ago,” said Johnson, who improved to 49-12-2 (33 KOs) with the 99-90, 99-90, 99-89 win that included a first round knockdown of Judah. “Now I’m moving on to right one of the other wrongs of my career, the decision that was taken away from me against Chad Dawson." MORE

A Message from the Unfriendly Media

One of the most popular sports radio chat shows is ESPN’s Colin Cowherd heard Monday thru Friday.

Last week in a moment of brilliance he may just have focused a laser-like beam on boxing’s problem. “A friendly media is a sport’s worst enemy. A media that takes an adversarial role can be a sport’s best friend. The media that questions and demands is the best that a sport can hope for.”

Cowherd was actually speaking about an individual team in a sport but there is no reasons not to believe that the same premise isn’t the “pie are squared and cake are round” for all sports.

Most local papers disdain a local boxing beat reporter which leaves boxing covered only on websites, “bloggers” and or employees of media that have a vested commercial interest in boxing. MORE

Star Boxing Fighters Working as a Family

On March 6, Delvin Rodriguez (23-2-2, 14 KOs) will look to defend his USBA welterweight championship, and earn the number two ranking in the IBF world ratings when he takes on highly touted welterweight contender Shamone "The Truth" Alvarez (20-1, 11 KOs). The bout will take place at the Mohegan Sun Resort and Casino in Uncasville, CT and be broadcast live as that evening's ESPN2 "Friday Night Fights" main event. MORE

BWAA Names Liebling Award Winners

NEW YORK – Leonard Gardner, Larry Merchant, and the late John Lardner have been named by the Boxing Writers Association of America as winners of the A.J. Liebling Awards. Bestowed since 1995 by the BWAA, the award honors the elegant New Yorker stylist, who chronicled the sport for decades and whose work was subsequently collected in the timeless boxing books The Sweet Science and A Neutral Corner. The Liebling Awards will be presented at the BWAA’s annual dinner in New York on June 12^th. MORE

Is Margarito ABSOLUTELY INNOCENT or ABSOLUTELY LYING?

by Howie Reed

“This is a final warning from your defender of Soapbox blather from his Lordship. He’s on his high horse with the Ivory Snow box underneath. You have been duly warned. To avoid this rambling collection of drivel proceed to the next story.”

Your friend in misery, Jeeves.

Sport and media have to deal with the public. The most important factor in that relationship is trust. Without public trust there is nothing. The public for the most part distrusts the sport of boxing. Inside boxing the constantly heard whine is “Why aren’t we on the front of the sport pages. We’re a great sport.” The answer is plain and simple; most folks think that wrestling’s more legitimate. Ask 100 people what they think about boxing and the answer will be 90% of the time “it’s fixed.” NO Trust. It’s sad that the sport itself does nothing to alleviate that impression. Truth be told, the opposite is true. Like the preverbal ostrich with its head in the sand the sport goes merrily on it’s’ way as if nothing is wrong. They sing their song in the key of “Ugly”. MORE

"Fight Knight" a Hot Ticket!
February 25 show at the Medieval Times Castle selling fast.

In recent weeks there has been a buzz amongst boxing fans all across North Jersey. They are all in great anticipation for the professional boxing card scheduled for February 25 at the Medieval Times Castle in Lyndhurst, NJ. The event cleverly titled "Fight Night" has been selling tickets at a brisk pace. After putting together a stellar show in his promotional debut this past October, Dignity Promotions have teamed up with David Feldman's Felko Promotions to stage another great boxing event.

"We had such a positive response from our first show at Medieval Times. Fans leaving the venue that night where already asking me when our next show will take place," said Dignity Promotions' Mike Indri.

"Our goal was to put on a great show at a fair price for the boxing fans and I truly believe that we accomplished that, especially looking at how well the fans have responded for this upcoming event. So far ticket sales have been going well."

The card features three fighters making their professional debuts. MORE

“Philly’s Five” Careers
Shortened by Tragedy!

There have been many careers shortened for various reasons and Philly fighters are no exceptions. There were three due to eye injuries and two due to death of which one was a killing! Their combined records were 112-8-2. Of the three with injuries, two went on to become well-respected trainers. They have all been inducted into the Pennsylvania Hall of Fame. MORE

Ennis, Termeliksetian added to
February 25 Card!

“Fight Knight” At Medieval Times in Lyndhurst, NJ

The upcoming “Fight Knight” card is quickly taking shape. Dignity Promotions and Felko Promotions have added contender Derek Ennis and local favorite Archak Termeliksetian to the fight card scheduled to take place on February 25 at the Medieval Times Castle in Lyndhurst, NJ. MORE

First St. Thomas, Next the World
Unbeaten Cayo Ready For the Big Names at 140
After Win Over Bolanos

Unbeaten junior welterweight contender Victor Manuel Cayo was in top form on January 30th, as he scored a near-shutout nine round decision victory over his toughest foe to date in Noe Bolanos, thrilling a packed house at the UVI Sports & Fitness Center in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. “The fans were great in St. Thomas and they really pushed me to one of my best performances ever,” said Cayo. “Bolanos was tough, but I knew he couldn’t beat me." MORE

Shaun George: "Jaffa Ballogou Doesn't
Stand a Chance against Me"

As training camp winds down for Shaun George, he prepares for what he says will be "the performance of a lifetime" on February 25 against Jaffa Ballogou at BB King Blues Club & Grill, located in New York City's Times Square. The fight is scheduled for 10 rounds and will headline DiBella Entertainment's next installment of "Broadway Boxing".

"Everything is going great," George, 17-2-2 (8 KO) of Brooklyn, NY says. "I'm just staying sharp and keeping my timing right. I can't wait to get out there and fight already. Jaffa doesn't stand a chance against me." MORE

Skullduggery Part Deux

“Do the crime and do the time.” That’s what Antonio Margarito and his trainer Javier Caperillo will have to do after the California Athletic Commission revoked their boxing licenses for at least one year. The suspension comes because Capetillo, don’t laugh now, “accidentally put illegal pads into Margarito’s gloves prior to the Mosley fight.” Capetillo said, “I committed a big mistake.” Yea you got caught. Everyone knows that if you don’t get caught it ain’t cheating.

California Commission Inspector Che Guevara testified that the wraps were “not hard as a rock, but firm and hard.” Another Inspector Mike Bray testified that there was “a white substance smeared across the pad, like a cast plaster.” Margarito promoter “Buffalo” Bob Arum was “infuriated”. He’ll get over it.

TIME OUT!!!

“Che Guevara? In California?” Yep and you though he died in the hills of La Higuera, Bolivia on October 9, 1967. Silly you. How appropriate that he finds himself in the People’s Republic of California. A match made in heaven.

Tijuana’s Mayor Jorge Ramos invited Antonio Margarito to fight in his city anytime while on suspension. “After a lengthy hearing in which no evidence was presented to demonstrate that Margarito incurred in any wrongdoing.” Wrong Bucko. He had the “ILEGAL” hand wraps on his hands. He was caught, as might written, hard handed. MORE

In Rusty’s Corner

It was interesting to hear Hall of Fame trainer Freddy Roach call for the permanent banning of Tony Margarito, from boxing.

It’s not that I agree or disagree, just think that judgment is a bit premature. This is America and a person is innocent until proven guilty. Come to think of it, it’s boxing and that may change the parameters a bit.

It’s hard to see how Margarito didn’t know his wraps were different than before, or where they? But will just hold our opinion in abeyance and see what the California Commission finds.***

Some interesting fights this weekend, On February 14,th, in Sunrise, Florida, Nate Campbell puts his belt on the line when he takes on Ali Funeka for the IBF/IBO and WBA lightweight crown. MORE

Golden Gloves Champ Turned Promoter:
DeGuardia Gives Golden Gloves Champs a Chance to Shine in the Pro Ranks

JOE DEGUARDIA IN 1988

In 1988 a young Morris Park boxer by the name of Joe DeGuardia won the New York State Golden Gloves open 147 lb. championship by defeating fellow New Yorker, Larry Barnes. While DeGuardia would hang up the gloves and choose to pursue a career in law before later forming the world renown boxing promotional company Star Boxing, Barnes turned pro, compiling an outstanding professional record of 44-3,17 KO and in the process won the NABF and New York State welterweight championship, as well as challenging for the IBF world welterweight and light middleweight championships. While DeGuardia and Barnes never met again inside the ring as combatants the two did work together as companions with DeGuardia in the role of promoter and Barnes as boxer. MORE

Can He Hear the Bell?

By Winston Mount-Batten

Nine year-old Kade Fontenot, a fourth grader at Parks Primary School has a disability that would seem to limit his ability to become involved in organized sports. Kade is 95% hearing impaired and wears specially developed, very expensive hearing aid’s in order to be able to hear.

Fontenot has refused to let this disability affect his life and along with older brothers Chance (fourteen) and Trey (eleven) is a sports fanatic. In 2008 he was the starting linebacker on the Breaux Bridge Jr. League Cowboys football team. However football came in a distant second when it came to the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Chance and become an amateur boxer.

On his first visit to the Ragin’ Cajun Amateur Boxing Club, Kade became enamored with the sport of boxing. He declared that his quest in life was to become a boxing champion. Informed by his parents Shane and Carrie Fontenot that the Ragin’ Cajun Club, head coach, Beau Williford would require that he must have at least a “C” average in his school grades and no less than  a “B” in conduct, in order to participate. Kade was barely passing in school and his conduct grade was nothing to be proud of. His reply was “Okay if that’s what I have to do I will work hard and bring my grades and conduct up." MORE

Corley Shines Bright in Return

Staging their first boxing show in four years, Darwish Brothers Knockout Promotions returned to the sport in a big way Tuesday night at the Meadowlands Sheraton Hotel in East Rutherford, NJ. The show was streamed live across the world online at GoFightLive.tv and featured some of New Jersey's hottest rising talent, as well the return of DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley.

 In the ten-round main event, former junior-welterweight world champion DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley of Washington DC and former title challenger Wilson "El Topadora" Enrique Galli of Long Island by way of Salto Uruguayo, Uruguay both knew they needed a win to get back into world title contention. In a classic boxer versus brawler matchup, DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley scored a seventh round TKO over his tough adversary. Official time was 1:23. MORE

Ali and the "Acorn"

It was to be the last time the incomparable Muhammad Ali would ever successfully defend the heavyweight championship. It would be held in boxing’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden. It would also feature Ohio’s most popular heavyweight of the last quarter century, Earnie Shavers.

The “Acorn” as Ali had dubbed Shavers would be a prohibitive underdog. He was accorded a puncher’s chance at best against the aging but still crafty king of the heavyweights. What transpired the night of September 29, 1977, established Earnie as a legitimate contender and forecast the soon-to-be demise of “The Greatest”.

The playful Ali continually mocked Earnie during the pre-fight introductions by rubbing the top of the “Acorn’s” head. In this fight the scorecards would be made public as fight went on. Everyone knew the score as the fight was progressing. An idea that has gladly never caught on. The relaxed and confident Ali easily out boxed Earnie in round one and was doing the same in round two. MORE