2007 NT Boxing Post: Thanks For A Great Year/ Please Lock

[dako akong otin]

living in the philippines, i've seen all the manny nuthuggers and its sickening... i mean, fans with no knowledge of the game will say he can KO Mayweatheror Hatton... yet if Manny or any hyped pinoy boxer will lose a fight, they'll also be the first to say "oh he's washed up, he's got noheart" Pisses me off.... anyway Manny also isn't a bad fighter like what his haters say... yeah, he will struggle at 135 and above, but hedeserves to be called the best superfeatherweight right now. yeah he doesn't have the finesse of Joan Guzman or the technical skills of Marquez, but hemakes up for it with his speed, power, and energy. that said, i will agree with Amo's comment

I think Manny is a very good fighter and definitely the best at 130. However, i don't think he's one of the top 5 p4p fighters, and i think he will be done at 135 and probably knocked out against the top guys.

 

[stringer bell 32]

Is Manny overrated?

Nah

2007 really wasn't a stellar year for him

Miranda - Pascal in 2008

One of the more intriguing fights looming in 2008 is a super middleweight showdown between brash punchers Jean Pascal of Canada and Colombia's Edison Miranda, who, if all goes well, will meet June 7 in Montreal on the weekend of the annual Canadian Grand Prix Formula 1 race on whatever American TV network decides to pay for it. Even without U.S. TV, the fight would happen because Pascal brings Canadian TV money and large crowds to Montreal's Bell Centre.

But before Miranda and Pascal meet each other, they'll have to win bouts Jan. 11 on a "Friday Night Fights" card (ESPN2) at the Hard Rock resort in Hollywood, Fla. The doubleheader gained some star power this week when a pair of fighters who competed in the recently completed third season of "The Contender" agreed to take fights against Miranda and Pascal. Miranda (29-2, 25 KOs) will face Donny McCrary (23-7-2, 13 KOs) and Pascal (20-0, 14 KOs) will face David Banks (15-3-1, 2 KOs), who outpointed McCrary in a six-rounder on last month's "Contender" finale card in Boston.

"It's great when 'The Contender,' which ESPN has showcased, puts their guys in with other fighters ESPN has showcased on 'Friday Night Fights,' " Miranda promoter Leon Margules of Seminole Warriors Boxing told ESPN.com. "I think in addition to the Pascal-Miranda angle, the fact that 'The Contender' has had popularity on the network makes this a really good promotion and a really good card." Jeff Wald, promoter and an executive producer of "The Contender," said his guys would work with trainer Buddy McGirt for a full training camp in Vero Beach, Fla., to prepare for the fights.

"It's two great matchups and anything can happen," Wald said. "They're both interesting fights and you have Buddy, who is the wild card. Neither one of these kids has ever had a serious trainer other than the time they spent on 'The Contender.' Buddy will definitely improve them. We're looking to upset their plans." Miranda, the premier trash talker in boxing, is already looking ahead to meeting Pascal, especially after scouting his decision win against journeyman Brian Norman last week in Montreal. "I came all the way from the sunny weather of San Juan to the snow in Montreal to watch nothing more than a club fight," Miranda said. "They pulled Jean's opponent right out of the circus to give him an easy night. ... The only thing that impressed me was the wonderful fans of Canada.

I admire their desire to see a great fight, but felt bad for them with this disappointing circus event that Pascal delivered. "They came out on a snowy cold night and were given nothing to cheer for during this bout. I will make a promise to these great fans. When Edison Miranda comes back to town they will have a reason to cheer. Listen to me Jean: by the end of the night, you will be lying on the canvas and 15,000 fans will be chanting 'Panthère.' " "Panthère," of course, is French for "Pantera," Miranda's nickname.

Dan Rafael covers boxing for ESPN.com.

 

[gunna get it]

O My GOD, David Banks & Donnie McCrary are gonn get knocked out somethin Awful

 

[bigmike23]

Them contender boys are going to die

 

[jagshemash]

I saw this article earlier which is a little different, looks like an updated version.

Edison Miranda to fight Contender's David Banks

14.12.07 - By Nathan King: According to earlier boxing reports, Edison Miranda and David Banks, of the hit show "The Contender," are set to square off January 11th. Bank's last win was over Donny McCrary on "The Contender" season finale.

McCrary was originally scheduled to fight Miranda (29-2, 25 KO), but pulled out due to unknown reasons. Banks (15-3-1, 2 KO) was originally scheduled to fight Jean Pascal on the same date. Omar Pittman (15-3-1, 8 KO) will be the new opponent face Pascal (20-0, 14 KO) and Banks is will fight Miranda in the co-feature.

The event will take place January 11th at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida. The event plans to set up a later showdown between Miranda and Pascal assuming they both win.

 

[theprofessorofpugilism]

Yo i'm happy McCrary is out now. Poor boy would have stood there tryin to trade with Miranda and end up gettin his head taken off. He been in with too manybig punchers recently, Donny needs a fight or two with a feather-fisted dude, his head and brain deserve the break.

As for Banks, this is actually a safer opponent for Miranda. With McCrary, there was always the possibility that he catches Miranda and KO's him. SinceBanks cant punch himself out of a wet paper bag, all Miranda has to do is walk him down, throw punches, and finish him off when he gets him hurt. While Banksis a pretty good boxer, he doesn't have the moment that could frustrate Miranda. Cory Spinks type dude would drive Miranda crazy, but since Banksdoesn't move quite so much, i think Edison will be able to corner him, drill him with some hard punches, and eventually stop him.

 

[theprofessorofpugilism]

Dan Rafael's Notebook, some interesting stuff:


[h1][/h1]

[h1]Power-punching Venezuelan ready to break into public spotlight[/h1]

By Dan Rafael
ESPN.com
(Archive)

Updated: December 14, 2007

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Arnulfo Franco/AP Photo

Edwin Valero, left, isn't one to back down from an all-out brawl.
[h3]Valero finally set for U.S. TV debut[/h3] It was January 2004, and boxing fans were buzzing about Venezuelan phenom Edwin Valero, whose reputation as a massive knockout puncher quickly had become the stuff of legend, although he had never fought on television. The dynamic junior lightweight was 12-0, with all of his wins coming via first-round knockout. He was set to make his television debut in New York against Francisco Lorenzo on a Golden Boy Promotions HBO Latino undercard.

Mehdi Fedouch/Getty Images

Edwin Valero would love a chance to fight in the U.S. while he's still in his prime.
However, before the bout, the New York State Athletic Commission denied Valero a license, having found a problem with his MRI exam. Valero had previously suffered a blood clot on his brain as the result of a motorcycle accident. In refusing to license Valero, New York also placed him on the national suspension list. Although Valero later was cleared to box by several California doctors, New York refused to remove him from the suspension list, meaning no other jurisdiction in the United States could license him, either. Valero, managed by Joel De La Hoya Sr., Oscar De La Hoya's father, wound up sitting out for 16 months -- all of 2004 and the early part of 2005 -- before resuming his career and eventually relocating to Japan. Although he was not allowed to fight in the U.S., Valero's career blossomed. He continued to rack up first-round knockouts, scoring 18 in a row before finally being extended into the second round, and won a world title by knocking out Vicente Mosquera in the 10th round of a slugfest in August 2006 in Panama City, Mosquera's hometown. Valero (now 22-0, 22 KOs), a southpaw, has gone on to make two title defenses in Japan and is set for his third defense against Mexico's Zaid Zavaleta (15-2-3, 11 KOs). But what makes Saturday night's fight at the Plaza de Toros in Cancun, Mexico, a bit more special for Valero, 26, is that almost four years after he was supposed to make his American television debut, he finally will. His fight headlines "Cancun Night of Champions" (9 p.m. ET), the final pay-per-view card of the year. The card features four bouts, including flashy 22-year-old featherweight titleholder Jorge Linares (24-0, 15 KOs), also of Venezuela, against Mexican mandatory challenger Gamaliel Diaz (22-6-2, 9 KOs). "Valero may be the hardest puncher in the world right now. When you have dynamite in your hands, you're gonna make fans, and he has dynamite in his hands," said Lou DiBella, who is co-promoting the card with Teiken Promotions' Akihiko Honda, Japan's No. 1 promoter. "When he lands, he has that one-punch knockout power that is God-given and rare. When he hits you, you get hurt. He's not a polished all-around fighter like Linares, but he comes out with that pure aggressiveness, and if that hammer lands, you're f---ed." Valero hopes the American exposure ultimately will lead to him being able to fight here. [table][tr][th=""]Cancun Night of Champions[/th] [/tr][tr][td]TV lineup for the Saturday night's pay-per-view card (9 ET, $29.95) from the Plaza de Toros in Cancun, Mexico: • Junior lightweights: Edwin Valero (22-0, 22 KOs) vs. Zaid Zavaleta (15-2-3, 11 KOs), 12 rounds, for Valero's title • Featherweights: Jorge Linares (24-0, 15 KOs) vs. Gamaliel Diaz (22-6-2, 9 KOs), 12 rounds, for Linares' title • Featherweights: Naoki Matsuda (28-7-3, 11 KOs) vs. Rudolfo Lopez (20-4-1, 14 KOs), rematch, 12 rounds, title eliminator • Featherweights: Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. (9-0, 8 KOs) vs. Jorge Cardenas (9-4-3, 6 KOs), 8 rounds -- Dan Rafael[/td] [/tr][/table] "It's a big step for me to finally be seen in America, and it's going to open a lot of doors for me for bigger and better things," Valero said through translator Rudy Hernandez, his assistant trainer. Although nobody wants to talk about it publicly, Golden Boy and Honda are working behind the scenes to get Valero licensed in America, including having conversations with Texas officials. Although Valero has made a life for himself in boxing, he said his dream is to be able to fight in the U.S., especially on a big card in Las Vegas. "It's important for me because I am in my prime," Valero said. "I want to be given that opportunity. It's not going to count when I'm 30. I want in while I am in my prime so I can fight against the best of the best in the division. I want that chance now, not when I am 30. "But I have all the faith in the world that I will be fighting in the U.S. next year. With Golden Boy and Mr. Honda behind me, I believe that opportunity will eventually be given to me, and I am hoping it is in 2008. I would like to fight the best at 130 pounds, and that would be Manny Pacquiao." Valero said he plans to display his calling-card power against Zavaleta. "I understand they want to see a knockout, and if the opportunity presents itself, I'll have knockout No. 23. I am hoping to knock him out, as well as everyone else. I know the crowd loves knockouts. It's like hitting a home run or getting a goal in a soccer game. I will go out there and try to knock him out just like I did with the previous fighters." DiBella, who has been following Valero and Linares for years, has been impressed with Valero's power after watching him train and on video. "Until he's in there with an incredibly fast or slick kid of high quality, almost everyone is going to sleep against him," DiBella said. "If you don't have incredible speed or anything to keep him off you, he's going to bang you and you are going to get hurt." [h3]Next for De La Hoya[/h3]

Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Oscar De La Hoya had hoped Ricky Hatton would have given a good account of himself against Floyd Mayweather, but it wasn't to be.
Oscar De La Hoya's plan for his ring future was clear: If Ricky Hatton beat Floyd Mayweather, he would fight Hatton in May. And if Hatton lost a close, competitive fight, he also could tap Hatton as his spring opponent. So what now, after Hatton was wiped out by Mayweather last week in a fight De La Hoya promoted? "I don't want to say any plans," De La Hoya said. "I'm gonna absorb this wonderful event and continue to keep training and enjoy the holidays with my family. There's many options out there. You heard my [promotional] partner 'Sugar' Shane Mosley wanting a piece of Floyd. Let's enjoy the holidays. We'll eat our little tamales and see if we can make 147, which I feel we can." When pressed again about the viability of a fight with Hatton in the wake of the lopsided loss, De La Hoya said, "The reason why it would be viable would be because of his style. It would be a clash of the titans. You can't rule anything out. All doors are open. I'm gonna wait until Saturday night and watch the replay [on HBO] and decide after that." If De La Hoya doesn't fight Hatton, a rematch with Mayweather is only a remote possibility because of Mayweather's plan to take most of next year off. The other logical opponent would be titleholder Miguel Cotto. [h3]Juan Diaz update[/h3]Unified lightweight titlist Juan Diaz and interim beltholder Michael Katsidis have signed to fight each other in a mandatory bout Feb. 9 in an HBO main event, but that doesn't mean the fight will happen. Golden Boy, representing Katsidis, won the purse bid last month for $1.5 million and has an arena in Diaz's native Houston on hold. However, Diaz is promoted by Don King, who hasn't signed off on the fight, which he must do if Diaz is to fight for another promoter. Diaz's contract with King runs out March 31, and manager Willie Savannah, who has been upset with King virtually since the day they signed with him last year, says they will not re-sign. Because King knows he is about to lose Diaz, Savannah said King has demanded they sign an extension or pay him $2 million for a release to fight Katsidis. "We sent King letters telling him has to make a fight before March 31. Besides Katsidis, we told him [King-promoted mandatory] Nate Campbell or [titleholder] David Diaz, but he doesn't respond or nothing," Savannah told ESPN.com. "As far as I am concerned, he's made no attempt to make a fight. My mind tells me he passed on the fight and he shouldn't be involved in anything … He's trying to screw a 24-year-old college kid." If Diaz-Katsidis doesn't happen, HBO would like to keep Katsidis, the brawling Australian, on the card against a different opponent.


[h4]QUICK HITS[/h4]

Mayweather

• Welterweight champ Floyd Mayweather, fresh from his dominant 10th-round knockout of Ricky Hatton last Saturday, flew to New York on Thursday for some media appearances. He took time out to talk to ESPN.com and said he thought Hatton, 29, should consider retirement. "I hope Ricky Hatton is able get to through this one," Mayweather said by telephone. "This is tough on him and his family. I know he's been through a lot of wars. I don't think he should fight again. A fight of this magnitude can really tear you down mentally and physically. The wars, like his fight with Kostya Tszyu and me, eventually catch up to you like they did with [recently retired] Fernando Vargas and Erik Morales."

Alexander

• Promoter Don King is putting his No. 1 prospect, 20-year-old junior welterweight Devon Alexander (13-0, 8 KOs), on the Jan. 19 Felix Trinidad-Roy Jones HBO PPV card at Madison Square Garden. No opponent has been finalized for the flashy St. Louis fighter, but Alexander's bout will open the telecast.

Torres

• Junior welterweight titlist Ricardo Torres, the Colombian puncher, will defend his title on the Feb. 16 Kelly Pavlik-Jermain Taylor II HBO PPV undercard in Las Vegas. However, rather than a rematch with Kendall Holt or facing rising prospect Victor Ortiz, both of whom were discussed, Torres (32-1, 28 KOs) will face Mike Alvarado (19-0, 13 KOs), one of Top Rank's rising contenders. Shelly Finkel, Alvarado's co-manager, told ESPN.com that they have received a contract and accepted the fight.

Mora

• Middleweight Sergio Mora (19-0-1, 4 KOs), the first-season winner of "The Contender," will try to pick up the pieces of his falling career Jan. 11. He will headline a Telefutura card against an opponent to be named at the Morongo resort in Cabazon, Calif. After 14 months without a fight, in part because he stunningly rejected a shot at then-middleweight champion Jermain Taylor because he didn't want to fight in Memphis, Tenn., Mora finally returned Oct. 16 on an undercard and was held to a draw by unheralded Elvin Ayala. Also on the card: 2004 U.S. Olympian Vicente Escobedo (15-1, 11 KOs) and prospect Danny Garcia (2-0, 2 KOs), a junior welterweight and finalist at this year's Olympic trials.

Chavez

• Remember that proposed welterweight showdown between Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and "The Contender" star Alfonso Gomez, which was planned for late March on HBO and then was pushed back to late April? Forget about it. Top Rank promoter Bob Arum, who handles Chavez, decided against the fight after seeing how much money he could make by putting Chavez on pay-per-view. Arum said Chavez's win against Ray Sanchez two weeks ago generated 70,000 subscriptions with almost no advertising. So rather than match Chavez with the dangerous Gomez in a fight HBO won't break the bank for, Arum is going back to PPV. He said Chavez will headline a card Feb. 9, possibly against Jose Celaya, and that he will keep Chavez busy on PPV roughly every other month before looking at 2009 as his breakout year. Arum said he would put the much-discussed Martin Castillo-Jorge Arce junior bantamweight showdown on the Feb. 9 undercard, but Castillo manager Frank Espinoza hasn't agreed to it yet. He told ESPN.com that he isn't happy about the fight being moved to a show partially controlled by Fernando Beltran, the co-promoter of Arce and Chavez. The bout originally was slated for HBO when Chavez-Gomez was being planned for March. Then it was shifted to the Feb. 16 Pavlik-Taylor II HBO PPV undercard. Espinoza wants it on the Pavlik-Taylor card because he believes the playing field is more even in Las Vegas than in Mexico, where Beltran is powerful, and because being on the the Pavlik-Taylor card will bring Castillo greater exposure.

Green

• Super middleweight contender Allan Green (25-1, 18 KOs) will face Rubin Williams (29-2-1, 16 KOs) on Jan. 4 in Tulsa, Okla., (ESPN2), but Green would rather be facing 2004 Olympic gold medalist Andre Ward on Feb. 2. Green, of Tulsa, and promoter Tony Holden agreed to the Williams fight before an opportunity to fight Ward on HBO came up for three times the money and greater exposure. However, ESPN held Holden to his commitment, and Green will face the former title challenger instead. "Losing the fight with Ward was a major blow," Green said. "While losing that fight really hurts, I have to block it out and focus on Jan. 4, because my head has to be together when I step into the ring." Said Holden: "It's disappointing that the Ward fight offer came at the wrong time, but we would be more than happy to meet him after this fight."

Molitor

• Junior featherweight titlist Steve Molitor (25-0, 10 KOs) of Canada will make his third defense since July when he faces Mexico's Ricardo Castillo (33-4, 22 KOs), the younger brother of former two-time lightweight champ Jose Luis Castillo, on Jan. 19 at Casino Rama in Orillia, Ontario. "This is just incredible to have the opportunity to defend this title once again in front of my hometown fans," Molitor said. "I cannot wait for Jan. 19 to get here, and I will not disappoint."

Guinn

• The Dec. 28 season debut of ESPN2's "Friday Night Fights" already has taken a hit. Heavyweight prospect Alonzo Butler (26-0-1, 19 KOs) was supposed to face his stiffest test in Dominick Guinn (28-5-1, 19 KOs), but Butler suffered an eye injury and is out. "He suffered a detached retina in the gym two weeks ago," promoter Artie Pelullo said. "He had surgery, so you're talking at least six months that he'll be out." Guinn, coming off a May loss to Eddie Chambers, will remain in the main event and face journeyman Robert Hawkins (22-10, 7 KOs), who is in a 2-7 rut, in Vancouver.

[h4]Quotable[/h4]

Trinidad

"Roy, I am telling you this, and I am serious this time. Every time I hit you, it's going to hurt. I think Roy has a bad memory when he says he's going to win in four rounds. What are you going to do when I knock you out in the second round, Roy?" -- Felix Trinidad, addressing Roy Jones at a recent news conference in San Juan to promote their showdown on Jan. 19 (HBO PPV) at New York's Madison Square Garden.

[h4]Quotable[/h4]

Jones

"Tito's got to go in fo'. He's doing a lot of talking now. He's got a big mouth. That's a bad sign." -- Roy Jones, responding to Felix Trinidad's prediction of a second-round knockout.


Dan Rafael's chat

Welcome to The Show! On Friday, ESPN.com's boxing writer Dan Rafael, will log on to take your questions on all the latest news and notes from inside and outside the ring.
Send your questions now and join Dan this Friday at 2 p.m. ET!

Rafael Archive: Chats | Columns

Dan Rafael: Greetings Fight Freaks. Hope you all enjoyed the Mayweather-Hatton fight. And I'm psyched to see Edwin Valero and Jorge Linares on PPV this weekend. New notebook is already posted, so check it out and the new divisional and p4p rankings. Let's get to it!

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Arch (Chicago): Alright Dan. Floyd was clearly winning that fight when it was stopped, but what did you think about Cortez in the ring?

Dan Rafael: I don't know why there is such a thing about Cortez. I thought he did a good job. Maybe he should have warned Ricky hard before he took the point but other than that he did a good job and didn't allow Ricky to simply maul like Ruiz.

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Wayne (Chicago): Dan why are you playing into the media's tactic of "There are no good fights left for Floyd, he has accomplished everything, retire." Quit being such a sellout and ignoring MIGUEL COTTO!!!

Dan Rafael: When did I ever say there were no good fights left for him? Better open your eyes son. Obviously, Cotto is there. That's the fight I want to see, which I have written, so don't push your luck or you will be banned.

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Tom (Danbury,CT): Was Harold Lederman watching the same fight as all of us were?

Dan Rafael: Harold is usually dead on. He had a bad night. It happens.

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Allen (Boca Raton, FL): Ricky Hatton was not as far behind as you make it sound. After 4 rounds, I had him ahead. Sure he got KO'd but he also pressed the action. Didn't you think Floyd did a lot of holding?

Dan Rafael: I had the same score as two of the ringside judges. He wwas taken to school. He averaged 6 or so punches landed per round. Meanwhile, Floyd couldn't miss with straight right hands. He landed hard and flush. SO MANY of Hatton's shots were picked off by the gloves and shoulders. I was 8 feet from the ring with a perfect view. Trust me. Floyd held some, sure, but not like Ricky tried to do.

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Ty (Detroit, MI): Dan, don't you get the feeling that even if PBF were to fight Cotto and wipe him out, there would still be people saying he's ducking oponents. When will the hate stop?

Dan Rafael: If he fought Cotto and wiped him out nobody could say anything.

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Big M (Atlanta): Under your scenario, who is likely to fight Cotto in March, if he doesn?t fight Oscar in May? Clottey?

Dan Rafael: Maybe Clottey. Maybe Gomez. Maybe Collazo. Maybe even Cintron. Nothing is remotely set.

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Ryan (Cleveland): Tell Wayne to have Cotto off Margarito and Cintron first. A close win over Mosley doesn't earn him a shot at Mayweather. Judah is still his best fight.

Dan Rafael: You're an idiot.

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Marc (philly): T-MINUS 5 days before the USS Cunningham leaves for Germany

Dan Rafael: You're the only one who cares. Make sure to give him a nice kiss for me before he leaves.

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Jeff (Redondo Beach, CA): Will Valero get his 23rd KO tommorow?

Dan Rafael: Absolutely.

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Dan (Champaign, IL): D$$$, why doesn't the OBVIOUS happen. Why doesn't Cotto fight Williams, and the winner take on Floyd?

Dan Rafael: I'd be fine with that fight but Williams is going to fight in February and isn't looking to Cotto right now. Besides, Williams brings very little to the table right now in terms of public appeal. He needs to be seen a bit more.

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rob (new hyde park): I agree with Lederman, as did the 4 other fight fans with me - I don't know how you could only give Hatton 1 round. There were so many close rounds, and not until the 8th did Floyd really take command

Dan Rafael: Well like I said, I had it the same as two of the three ringside judges (the other gave Hatton two rounds I think). I also had it the same as many writers. So I stand by my score 100% whether you or anyone else don't like it.

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Erik (Atlanta, Ga.): Dan if Arum promise PBF 20 million how fast would PBF sign on the dotted line?

Dan Rafael: Where's the pen?

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Alfonso, (Des Moines, IA): Dan, I hear some calls for Hatton to retire, mostly from PBF. Dont you think Hatton still has quite a few good fights left in him?

Dan Rafael: Yes, I do. I don't see any reason for Ricky to retire unless he wants to. At 140, he's still the best out there. He's just not big enough for the best at 147.

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Jeff (Redondo Beach, CA): Do you think Floyd was out of line telling Hatton to retire? I couldn't tell if he was being an #&%* or being a nice guy by telling him that.

Dan Rafael: Floyd was not being a jerk when he told me that yesterday. He sounded genuine and soft spoken when he said it.

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Erik (Atlanta, Ga.): Why does it matter what the scores where prior to the 8th PBF smashed him! The end!

Dan Rafael: Thank you. I agree.

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Michael (Long Beach, CA): Was PBF more gracious in the post fight press conference than usual? Is he mellowing?

Dan Rafael: Floyd is usually cool after the fights.

Dan Rafael: I understood his point, obviously you didn't. Hatton took A LOT of punishment from Floyd.

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Jose M La Habra CA: Dan is Valero the most exciting opponent for Pacquiao out there?

Dan Rafael: One of them for sure. I'd love to see them fight someday but I don't think it's in the cards in the near future.

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Nigel (Chestnut Hill, MA): Any preliminary word on the buy rate for last weekend's PPV?

Dan Rafael: I expect numbers tomorrow but it's a monster. It will be in the 800,000s I suspect, which is huge. It will be the biggest PPV ever that didn't involve Oscar, Tyson or Holyfield.

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Greg(Los Angeles): Dan any chance that Ward Green can happen sill if they both win?

Dan Rafael: Down the road, for sure.

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Mario (Bell Gardens, CA): Danaconda, doesn't it make more sense to have Cotto v. Margarito in June and have the winner face Mayweather in November/December? Both are legit welterweights, and both would be tough fights for Floyd. Thoughts sir???

Dan Rafael: If Oscar doesn't fight Cotto in May (or Mayweather for that matter) the plan is simple: Cotto and Margarito fight in early 2008 and then meet in June at MSG on PPV. The winner of that fight obviously would be the biggest fight for Floyd in the fall.

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Michael (Toronto): DTM, you're getting feisty with the freaks today. Is this like a Bernard Hopkins press conference where you are deliberately starting a shoving match to get fans excited?

Dan Rafael: No, I just have a hard time with some of the morons who try to pass as freaks. Most of you guys are smart and know your stuff. Others need a smack.

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Jeff (Buffalo Grove, IL): Who is your candidate for Fighter of the Year? It has to be Pavlik, going from virtually unknown to KO'ing the #1 Contender and then the Champ?

Dan Rafael: I am not going to reveal the pick until the story is published before the end of the year. But I can tell you the top candidates, in no order, are Cotto, Mayweather and Pavlik.

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Erik (Atlanta, Ga): How cool was it for the Hatton fans to continue to sing "there's only one Ricky Hatton!" even after the KO?

Dan Rafael: I think they were too drunk to realize he'd been smashed.

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Aaron (Hartford): B Hops statement of losing to a white guy- hype for the promo/fight or his real true racist feelings ?

Dan Rafael: Trying to hype the fight with a very poor choice of words.

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Mike, Cleveland: Only tangentially a boxing question: what was the vibe like among you scribes when the Brits booed during the national anthem?

Dan Rafael: Disgust. The British writers who were with us at ringside were apologetic. It was disgusting for them to do that especially after the Americans were totally respectful during their anthem. I am a hard guy to offend because I usually really don't a crap what people do or say, but I was eve offended by that.

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Arod NYC: BYE or Sell 24/7 having a 5th and final show covering the post fights events.

Dan Rafael: Sell. Wont happen. But at the end of the Oscar-Floyd replay there was like a five-minute 24/7-style wrapup of the fight. They didn't do that for this fight from what HBO folks have told me.

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Arod NYC: DTM what is next for Chad Dawson? Any shot he drops to the stacked 168 Division?

Dan Rafael: Probably first Saturday in April on Showtime, maybe against Glen Johnson.

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Steve, Pittsburgh: Dan, how did the British fans in the casinos take the Hatton loss?

Dan Rafael: They drank some more.

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Arnold (Baltimore): So dan, will you let us in on who the little lady you were sitting with at ringside was?

Dan Rafael: Don't know who mean. I had Yahoo writer Kevin Iole on one side and LA Time writer Lance Pugmire on the other side of me.

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Drunk Brits: There's only one Dan Rafael

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Mario (Bell Gardens, CA): Danaconda, your thoughts on the following: a Spanish-language newspaper in L.A. wrote that Barrera said he would like to fight Erik Morales again in a "goodbye" fight for fans. What do you think?

Dan Rafael: I hadn't read that but if it's true I can't say I am surprised to hear him say that. I think that ship has sailed.

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Jordan (Baton Rouge, LA): Any word on Paul Williams opponent?

Dan Rafael: HBO and promoter Dan Goossen are working on it. It's up in the air. It's possible the card moves to a new date. Quintana remains a possibility. It should be worked out shortly.

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Arod NYC: DTM is Valero the truth? Has he fought any legitimate competition?

Dan Rafael: The best guy he's faced was Vicente Mosquera, whom he won the title from and also got dropped by. He has faced pretty weak opposition overall.

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Paul (Carlsbad, CA): Dan, Buy/Sell floyd fights in 2008?

Dan Rafael: Buy.

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Cherry (San Juan): Will tomorrow's card be entertaining or will it be a couple show cases fights and a chance to see the V-nom?

Dan Rafael: I am looking forward to the card.

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Mike NJ: Dan, Is it me or are the tickets for RJJ/Tito too expensive? $265 for the upper tier and 15k for ringside...come on

Dan Rafael: It's ridiculous. It's $5,000 for the cheapest tickets on the floor! Insanity.

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Andrew (Toronto): I heard Peter vs. Maskaev are going to brawl in any sports bar that will pay a nominal site fee (free drinks)

Dan Rafael: Still no site.

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Jordan (Baton Rouge, LA): Any comment on the Brits booing during the Star Spangled Banner? that really made me mad.

Dan Rafael: No class.

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Erik (Atlanta, Ga.): D$$$$ buy/sell Hatton vs Witter.

Dan Rafael: Sell. Ricky doesn't want to lose again.

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Greg (Hartford, CT): Dan...Buy or Sell MSG selling out for Roy vs. Tito??

Dan Rafael: Sell. With the tickets so freakishly high priced, they'll die at the gate on that fight.

---

Clay (Indy): Do you think the undercard for Mayweather vs Hatton was a little weak or did everyone have an off night?

Dan Rafael: On paper, it was OK. I was disappointed that Escobedo ran from Ponce the whole fight, which made it a boring fight. I enjoyed the Lacy-Manfredo fight eve though Jeff looked rusty. Cherry scored a nice knockout over Ferguson in a fight that never belonged on the PPV in the first place.

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Arch (Chicago): Speculating here. Say JMM beats Pacquiao -- buy or sell a Pacquiao/Hatton fight at a catch weight in late 2008?

Dan Rafael: Very doubtful.

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Aaron (Hartfrod): If Paulie wins on 1-5 does he have to give N'Dou a rematch ? What a waste of time for everyone if he has to ....

Dan Rafael: That rematch won't happen unless somehow N'Dou won some big fight to make people interested in it.

---

rob (new hyde park): if hatton doesn't want to fight Witter because he may lose, then who would he fight? de la hoya's too big; maybe Malignaggi?

Dan Rafael: Malignaggi is there, good fight at MSG. Maybe Juan Diaz down the road. There are fights for him.

---

Jordan (Baton Rouge, LA): Any word on the Mayweather/Hatton replay?

Dan Rafael: Yeah, it's on HBO Saturday night at 10:15 ET/PT.

---

Brian (Brooklyn): Am I the only one who thinks that a PBF/Cotto fight would be a nip and tuck affair?

Dan Rafael: Not at all. I think Cotto gives Mayweather a really serious fight, much better than Hatton.

---

JKGaucho: (DC): Dan, should Warren take it slow with Amir Khan or move him quickly? Do you think he is ready for contenders?

Dan Rafael: He just drilled Graham Earl in 72 seconds. I believe Khan is the real deal.

---

Emilio, Sacramento: Dan, do you think Don King has priced the Jones/Trinidad tickets at such a high price because he still hasn't come up with enough money to pay both promised purses?

Dan Rafael: MSG is responsible for the ticket prices, not DK.

---

Chris (Broadview Heights, OH): I'm surprised the Britain's "booing" the national anthem and constant singing didn't inspire more "USA" chants or even draw fights in the crowd. How did a lot of the crowd react? (Keeping in mind only the extremely wealthy can afford such seats and have much more to lose than the drunk)

Dan Rafael: There were times during the fight where fans chanted "USA!"

---

KISSmas Elf, North Pole: I have it on good authority (Mrs. DTM) that you're getting KISSOLOGY as soon as it's released.

Dan Rafael: Tuesday morning I will be at the store buying my copy!

---

Jeff (Redondo Beach, CA): It was good to hear you use the word "rusty" for Jeff Lacy. I sure hope it wasn't his shoulder still....

Dan Rafael: Jeff said after the fight that his shoulder felt fine.

---

Steve, Pittsburgh : why has RJJ done so much promoting for this fight? That's very rare for him

Dan Rafael: The only thing I can assume is that he is working on a percentage, meaning he needs to sell the PPV in order to maximize his purse.

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Mike, Cleveland: DTM, as on expert on both men, who loves money more: PBF or Gene Simmons?

Dan Rafael: Gene.

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Greg (Hartford, CT): Danimal. What are your fight of the year contenders? Pavlik vs. Taylor, Bika vs. Condrington?

Dan Rafael: You forget about Vazquez-Marquez fights or Cotto-Judah?

---

jose, santa clarita: What's the latest with Vazquez-Marquez 3?

Dan Rafael: No site yet.

---

Matt (portland, OR): Is the Pavlik v Taylor undercard still gonna have Arce on it?

Dan Rafael: No.

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Steve, Pittsburgh: buy or sell, the Tito/RJJ ppv does over 600,000 buys

Dan Rafael: Sell. I would be pretty shocked if it did that many.

---

James Dolan: Ticket prices are so high because we have to pay off a lawsuit.

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Josh (Lincoln, NE): Does Wlad knock out Ibragimov within 5 rounds?

Dan Rafael: Good chance.

---

Frank (Arizona): Any chance that Mayweather-De La Hoya takes fight of the year honors?

Dan Rafael: Are you crazy?

---

Greg(Los Angeles): Is Golota Mollo still supposed to be on the Trinidad/Jones card?

Dan Rafael: Yes, as far as I know.

---

Brandon, MI: What are the plans for Berto in '08?

Dan Rafael: Right now nothing is set. HBO may give him a spot but Showtime has offered him a three-fight contract that his people might accept.

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Big M (Atlanta): Are you happy to see Devon Alexander on the RJJ v. Tito card? Finally, some activity for him!

Dan Rafael: I am thrilled.

---

Banishment: With the first pick in the draft, I take Frank from Arizona.

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Marc (philly): How long did it take you to get the "Theres only 1 Ricky Hatton Song" out of your head?

Dan Rafael: It's still there dude. Night and day.

---

SPOILER ALERT: Ricky Hatton is back in Manchester and is now 20 lbs heavier and drunk....

---

Jake (Reno): Why is Manny Pacquiao ducking Edwin Valero and Joan Guzman?

Dan Rafael: Did you take your medication today?

---

Josh (Lincoln, NE): How come Edison Miranda is nowhere to be found in your rankings? Hasn't done anything at Super Mid?

Dan Rafael: He's had one fight at super middle so far and he faced a lower-tier opponent. Let him beat a notable opponent in the division and then he can EARN his ranking.

---

Banishment: With my second round pick, I will take Jake from Reno

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Dan (Nutley, NJ): Any chance that Antonio Tarver wins Fighter of the Year? He was 2-0 in Showtime main events.

Dan Rafael: LOL!

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chris (brooklyn, ny): Why doesn't Floyd use that devastating jab more? He was peeling Ricky's wig back in round 8 with it.

Dan Rafael: Good call. He barely used it early and then when he started to he pulverized Hatton with it. It's a deadly punch when he elects to use it.

---

rob (new hyde park): how can King stop the Diaz-Katsidis fight considering it's a mandatory and he didn't win the purse bid

Dan Rafael: It's called a promotional contract.

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Nick (NYC): how would you rank Larry Holmes among the greatest heavyweights in the past 50 years?

Dan Rafael: Top 10 for sure.

---

Banishment: A trade just took place between Frank from AZ and Dan from NJ...

---

Kevin (Phoenix, AZ): Between the Bobfather moving fights around cards and delaying other fights completely (see JCC Jr v Gomez), and DK not being able to find a site, are these older promoters starting to show their age?

Dan Rafael: No, just typical of the way they do business.

---

Big M (Atlanta): Does, Chagaev v. Skelton do anything for you?

Dan Rafael: Decent fight but sort of laughable to think of it as a serious heavyweight championship fight.

---

Norton ( Alabama): Will there be any real build up for the Jones/ Tito fight? Like a 24/7?

Dan Rafael: There will be an HBO countdown show.

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Gus -NY: from reading over the notebook and not seeing anything written - is it safe to say that there has been no progress on hopkins/calzaghe?

Dan Rafael: Correct. They are talking and trying to work out some details but I think it will somehow get done. I hope it does.

---

jose, santa clarita: Dan, I think you would agree...after a great year of boxing. Boxing is far from being a "dead" sport.

Dan Rafael: It's been a spectacular year.

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Matt (Washington, DC): I agree Chagaev-Skelton is laughable as a heavyweight championship fight, but I'm digging how many heavyweight fights there will be in the next two or three months. Fingers crossed some clarity comes to the division.

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E (Kansas City): Who is better in your opinion Floyd Mayweather Jr. or Sugar Ray Leonard???

Dan Rafael: I think Floyd and Ray would be a great fight but I am partial to Ray.

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Matt (Shelton): Dan, from your comment comparing Sultan to Sanders, are you inferring that for Sultan to have a crack at Wlad that he better get it done early? Is this a case where as the fight goes on the less a chance for an upset?

Dan Rafael: Yes.

---

Josh (Lincoln, NE): Have you ever talked to Bernard about his first fight? I was looking at his record and couldn't believe he lost his first pro fight!

Dan Rafael: In detail as a matter of fact. If you go into my archive or search for it, I believe I wrote a lengthy feature on that before he fought Tarver.

---

rob (new hyde park): if you new anything about promotional contracts you'd know that usually the only time a promoter cannot stop a fighter from fighting for another promoter is when it's a mandatory fight and it goes to pursebid

Dan Rafael: If you knew anything about DK's contracts you wouldn't make such a dumb comment.

---

John (ATL GA): Dan, what do you think of Arum already promoting Pavlik-Duddy? Do you think they are not too worried about the rematch with Taylor?

Dan Rafael: They better be worried about the rematch first. If Pavlik wins, then make the Duddy fight, but if anyone thinks Pavlik is just going to walk through Taylor they are crazy.

---

Demetrius (philly): dan i cant see calzone lasting more than 3 rounds with Bhop, can you?

Dan Rafael: I can see Calzaghe not only lasting three rounds but winning the damn fight.

---

Banishment: And Rob from New Hyde takes the lead

---

Steve, Pittsburgh: I don't know Dan, DK seems to be slipping a bit. He's having problems with his best young talent in Diaz, can't find a site for Peter/Maskaev, and he's desperately pushing this Tito/RJJ fight that noone wants to see. He's really struggling.

---

Dougie (Lake Forest, IL): Dan I know how you said you hate UFC, but don't you think boxing could benefit from its structure, like more airtime on Cable and a more structured PPV format?

Dan Rafael: I have never said I hated UFC. If you're going to quote me do it correctly son.

---

Brits: Theres only one Calzaghe!

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Alex(Seattle): Dan: Hatton told Sky Sport News that a rematch with Maywather would be quote:"In the offing", Is he serious?

Dan Rafael: Ricky is delusional if he thinks there will be a rematch.

---

Banishment: Dougie was just picked on waivers....

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Mario (Bell Gardens, CA): Danaconda, as a loyal freak, I'm surprised to see so many dumb comments today....what's going on here??? We're one Mike Tyson question away from mandatory banishment.....

Dan Rafael: I have no idea. It's like a full moon or something today. Where are the real freaks?

---

The God of Bannishment:: From Rob in NJ to Dougie in Il. There are more losers in this chat today then on a Showtime Main Event Card in 07

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Amdrew (CT): Any news on Joel Julio?

Dan Rafael: Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, the Love Child. Unfortunately, nothing new to report.

---

Brian (Brooklyn): Being so close ringside Dan, were you worried after seeing Hatton catapult into the corner like that and hit his head?

Dan Rafael: Looked a little like pro wrestling. But Hatton was game and got up. I thought the fight might be over with the first knockdown.

---

E (Omaha): Dan-ta Claus - We all know about your extensive fight collection. You have any recommended reading material for the Christmas freaks?

Dan Rafael: The Illustrated History of Boxing, of which I am a co-author.

---

Showtime: Best 3 fights of the year: 1. Tarver-Santiago 2. Forrest- Piccarillo 3. Donaire-Maldonado

---

Larry (Indiana): yeh right dan. Bika-Codrington fight of the year? You're only saying that bcuz it was on ESPN and u r such a corporate @+#*!!!!

Dan Rafael: Larry you are a fool. And you are now a banned fool.

---

All Boxing Fans: R.I.P. Hank Kaplan

Dan Rafael: Correct. A loss for boxing today.

---

Richard (Franklin Park, NJ): Dan, did PBF mention any hand problems after the fight? He sure did make a lot of use of them.

Dan Rafael: Floyd said his hands were fine, no problems.

---

Matt (Washington, DC): Think Winky has any interest in the Vernon Forrest fight you keep mentioning? I'd love to see that.

Dan Rafael: I haven't ever asked Winky about the fight, or Vernon for that matter, but I would like to see it.

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Michael (LA, CA): Dan: What's next for Ponce? I remember reading about a possible re-match with Gerry Penalosa. Is that going to be his next fight?

Dan Rafael: Not definite, but that is the fight they are all looking at doing.

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John, FLA: Dan, please rank these 4 heavyweights for me, Lennox, Holmes, Evander, and Frazier.

Dan Rafael: Holmes, Frazier, Lennox, Holy.

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Winky Wright: I want 8 million dollars to fight Vernon!

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Dan (Nutley, NJ): If you were in a Ukranian prison on death row, and the only way you could be spared was to pick one current heavyweight to beat Wlad, who would you pin your hopes on?

Dan Rafael: Vitali.

---

Banishment: With the 4th pick, we select Larry (Indiana).

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Justin (Peoria, IL): Ban-em DAN - When you go to the big time fights are you taking notes or just there for the pure enjoyment?

Dan Rafael: I'm there working dude. So yes, I am typing stuff into my laptop at ringside. It's fun, but work.

---

Mario (Bell Gardens, CA): Danaconda, have you given any thought on how you think JM Marquez v. Pacquaio will end up??? Am I wrong to think Marquez wins by split decision....

Dan Rafael: I can't wait for that fight. It's a toss up to me. I can see just about any scenario in that one.

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Showtime: We're pleased to announce an extraordinary tripleheader in 2008, featuring Peter Manfredo, Eduardo Escobedo and Wes Ferguson!

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Banishment: We have to release John from Reno as we are at capacity and need to make room on the 40-man roster.

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E (Omaha): D$$ - Just bought The Illustrated History of Boxing via Amazon. 5 star reviews for your book! Very nice!

Dan Rafael: Thanks. My royalty check will show up in a few months.

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Biff (Philly): Dan - you might want to remind everyone that the Pavlik-Taylor rematch is not for Pavlik's middleweight title, hence the reason why they're already talking up a defense vs. Duddy in June.

Dan Rafael: Good point.

---

Gary Shaw: Happy Holidays fight fans. Let me be the first to announce our special Showtime Christmas doubleheader. In the co-feature we have former world heavyweight title challenger Henry Akinwande, fighting the evil sensei from Karate Kid, and in the main event Antonio Tarver is going to challenge five lucky fans from in the stands to try and take his title belt. And, as a bonus, its all part of Showtime's free preview weekend, so you have no excuse not to tune in. Merry Christmas!

Dan Rafael: That is one of the funniest posts ever.

---

B(c-town): Refresh my memory, who was it that Holmes tried to karate kick when he jumped off the car

Dan Rafael: I believe it was the late Trevor Berbick. It was a classic scene.

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Devmann (College Park, MD): How come Chris John is no.1 in Featherweight division. He is untested. He has never fought anybody good.

Dan Rafael: Look at his record dude.

---

Flemming, Copenhagen, Denmark: DTM, read your blog about the HoF and I gotta tell ya; the whole *extra-special honor of going in on the first ballot* is a little lame. Either you think Naz is in or not..........

Dan Rafael: That is your opinion and that's fine. MY opinion is that first ballot IS an extra special honor, one I didn't believe Naz deserved.

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Mario (Bell Gardens, CA): ....(still laughing about Gary Shaw's Showtime post.....too hilarious).....

Dan Rafael: Obviously, it wasn't actually Gary Shaw posting, but it was funny nonetheless. Just wanted to make that clear.

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Joe (San Jose, CA): Showtime introduced Tarver as future Hall of Famer...Isn't that worse than calling him world champ?

Dan Rafael: Much.

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Court (DC): I'm with Mario. Anyone who thinks Hatton won four rounds is an idiot. Mayweather dominated with clean punching all fight. I only gave one round to Hatton. Just coming forward is never enough to win a fight. One must be EFFECTIVE with the aggressiveness.

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E (Kansas City): What all legends did you see at the fight Saturday? I saw Sugar Ray, Thomas Hearns as well as the promoters of the fight on tv.

Dan Rafael: There were a lot of fighters and movie and TV stars there. I did see Brad and Angelina. That was cool. And Denzel.

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Mario (Bell Gardens, CA): Wait, wait, I know it wasn't really Gary Shaw Danaconda, please give me more credit sir, I'm the one who still watches the Somsak v. Monshipour DVD you were kind enough to send me....

Dan Rafael: Yes, I know that because you are a smart freak. But we also have a lot of freaks with the IQ of a can of tuna.

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Christopher, Staten Island: Dan, I actually like your stance on reserving the first ballot as a special honor but what vibes have you been getting from other HOF voters on the Prince getting in this year?

Dan Rafael: He didn't get in, that's the only vibe I have.

---

Brian (DC): Props to HBO for having Buffer announce that Floyd-Hatton was for the Ring Belt...

---

Biff (Philly): Dan- do you see Donaire moving up in the near future to 115 to fight someone like Martin Castillo or Montiel? Seems like there's more comp there.

Dan Rafael: I think he will, especially because before he won the title from Darchinyan he used to fight at 115.

---

Bruce: Alexandria: Would Henry Akinwande vs John Ruiz violate the Geneva convention on torture?

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Big M (Atlanta): How about your DVD pick of the week?

Dan Rafael: I popped in Mayweather-Genaro Hernandez this morning.

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Lupe (FL): Dan I know you said Floyd needs to retire, but shouldn't he at least fight Mosley/Cotto/Margarito before hanging up the gloves?

Dan Rafael: Another moron. When did I say he should retire?

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James (Boston, MA): DTM, You called the lead-up and fight in Vegas the "the single greatest event" you have ever covered. I was there for all of it and had a ball, but can you let the freaks in a bit about what separated it from the rest?

Dan Rafael: It is the best event I have ever covered. Even in the airport when I arrived in Vegas on Wednesday morning, I heard people talking about the fight. The atmosphere in the MGM was festive from the moment I arrived. The weigh in was SICK. People lined up for it at 6 am. There was a buzz even in the press room. The Brits chanted and sang 24/7. It was special. And then the night in the arena was absolutely electric. I wish every boxing fan could have been in there.

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The White House: We will neither confirm or deny that our interrogators at Guantanamo Bay maintain an extensive collection of John Ruiz telecasts.

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Fletch (Pittsburgh, PA): I gotta say one thing, Floyd is the smartest fighter I have had the pleasure to watch. His jab, especially the straight jab to the stomach, is a dangerous weapon because he doesn't use it that often. It's been a pleasure to watch him fight.

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Greg(MIlwaukee): Dan, As big a challenge as Cotto would present to Mayweather, do you think that he will be able to handle Floyd's hand speed and skill. He had his trouble with Judah and as Larry Merchant would say" Mayweather ain't no Judah."

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Matt (portland, OR): Dan was PBF Hatton a better crowd then Joppy Trinadad?

Dan Rafael: Yes.

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Mark (Springfield): Dan in your mind who wins a prime Trindad or a prime Cotto (at 147)?

Dan Rafael: Wow, what a fight. It would be a shootout. I think Cotto is an overall more skillful fighter with more versatility, but Tito's power is probably a bit better. I'd love to have seen it.

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R (Yay Area!): Dan, do you know who is going to be announcing the Valero-Linares PPV Card?

Dan Rafael: Col. Bob and Dave Bontempo with the classy Jimmy Lennon Jr. handling the ring announcing.

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Big M (Atlanta): Good move in not giving Hamed the extra special honor of being a first balloter. I agree Dan.

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David (Hercules, CA): Most impressive about PBF, and Hatton alluded to it, is even when Hatton had point blank access to Floyd's body, he couldn't get through. Floyd shifts his arms, elbows, and shoulders ever so slightly to block nearly every shot Hatton tried to land inside.

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Gary Shaw: Oh...and I forgot to mention. I am honored to pay the sanctioning fee for this event!!!

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John (Grand Rapids, MI): Has Mayweather ever fought a huge puncher?

Dan Rafael: Ever hear of Diego Corrales?

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Brian (DC): I don't think Naz is a HOF at all, but voting for him on the first-ballot would be an insult to true first-ballot HOFers like Duran and Whitaker.

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Joe, Camarillo, CA: Your cat must be puking up a storm with all the dumb questions this chat has see thus far!

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Tom (Danbury,CT): Do you agree with ESPN the Magazine selecting Potvetkin as NEXT for boxing?

Dan Rafael: Well it was actually me making that selection for the mag, so yes, I agree.

---

JX Phoenix: As a long time freak and Dan Rafael gold star winner, can I get a copy of the Monshipour-Somsak DVD?

Dan Rafael: No.

---

Tim (Des Moines, IA): You mentioned last week Maskaev-Peter wasn't set. But its being reported everywhere. Update?

Dan Rafael: The fight is agreed to but there is no site, so you can't have a fight without a venue.

---

Ronak (NY): Your thoughts on this upcoming Versus card? A great prospect in martirosyan, one of the few heavyweights worth watching in Tye and an exciting top ten welterweight in Clottey.

Dan Rafael: As the Versus cards go, this is a solid show.

---

Dave, NJ: Dan, should the quality control on ESPN FNF be better? Dominick Guinn vs. Robert Hawkins doesn't really tickle my fancy...

Dan Rafael: Hawkins is a late sub for injured Alonzo Butler. Guinn-Hawkins is pretty weak, but it's hard to find solid heavys on two weeks notice especially at the holiday time.

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Steve (Carmel, Indiana): How come nobody is talking about Linares? This kid is a future superstar.

Dan Rafael: I agree. I've seen him once live at ringside and a handful of other times on video and he's incredible.

---

Ed (Connecticut): Dan how comes you are way slower than Boxrec.com to report fights? They already have Quintana-Williams up. Is DTM running a little behind his competitors these days?

Dan Rafael: They can post fights all they want but Williams-Quintana is not a made fight.

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Pat (NY): I read on boxrec that Soto is fighting Diaz for the WBA 135 lb title on the pac marquez undercard. Is that accurate?

Dan Rafael: Another fight that lives only in boxrec's fantasy land. This fight is not made and has never even been discussed for that card. Juan Diaz does not fight on undercards anymore. Boxrec is a great resource but the schedule, as usual, is a joke.

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bill (carmel, ny): sounds like boxrec should change it's name to boxrumor

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Tom (Danbury,CT): I apologize, As a punishment I will now tie myself to a tree and watch Briggs/Lyakhovich 10 straight times.

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Dan, CO: Dan, please answer one of my questions, who wins if they do fight, Cotto or Margarito?

Dan Rafael: If they fight, I like Cotto all day long.

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Dave, NJ: Actually they had David Diaz vs. Humberto Soto..

Dan Rafael: Not happening.

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Tim (Lincoln): I read on BOXREC that Tyson-Klitschko is happening this weekend. Why wasn't there more buildup!?

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Michael (Long Beach, CA): Can't handle the stupidity in this chat anymore today.

Dan Rafael: You ought to see the stuff I am not posting.

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Josh (Lincoln, NE): Boxrec posts a lot of rumors and unconfirmed fights. It's a great site, but it has its flaws.

Dan Rafael: Exactly.

---

Matt (Chicago): What can you tell us about Torres' next opponent, Mike Alvarado?

Dan Rafael: Good prospect, undefeated. He's been getting better and better. I have been watching him since he turned pro and have seen most of his bouts. Decent power and seems like he has a good chin and good toughness. I give him a real shot to beat Torres because he's fundamentally sound and seems like he takes a good shot.

---

Omar in L.A.: Sup Dan? Huge fan, read you everyday I can. A while back I read something Pacquiao possibly moving up in weight to fight De La Hoya in Late 08? If something that outrageous were true, wouldn't it make sense to just have him fight Cotto or Mayweather instead? They could unify the P4P title.

Dan Rafael: The reason for a possible Oscar-Manny fight is money. P4P has nothing to do with it. Money is what it has to do with as it would be a gargantuan event.

---

Rich (Brewster, MA): Merry KISS mas Dan! What a weekend last week. Hatton-PBF and KISSmas on VH1! Christmas came early.

Dan Rafael: I recorded some of the VH1 KISS stuff while I was in Vegas.

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John (ATL GA): If DLH-Pacman happens, what weight will it be?

Dan Rafael: Probably around 146 or 145.

---

Adam (Las Vegas): Dan, Do you have any news on Zab's next fight?

Dan Rafael: Zab has nothing scheduled. I spoke to him in Las Vegas and he is just chilling while his hand heals. He injured it in his fight a few weeks ago.

---

Roger Clemens' attorney: My client vehemently denies the rumor on BoxRec that he's fighting David Haye at Yankee Stadium on the undercard of Calzaghe-Hopkins. Keep in mind that we have no way of refuting this, or defending ourselves, its just a shame that because its on BoxRec people assume its true.

---

Gene Simmons: I wanna rock and roll all night with the drunk Brits!

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Jon (NYC): Is there a historical precedent for Oscar-Manny fight in terms of magnitude for differing weight class coming together? Seems to me Manny is too small.

Dan Rafael: If you go back and read my blog from about a month ago on the topic, many examples are outlined in it.

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Miles (Philly): Why is everyone talking about Floyd fighting Cotto and not Paul Williams?

Dan Rafael: Because it's a bigger, better fight.

---

Ochs (Webster, NY): Dan, you did give Miranda the pound-for-pound trash talk title. I do think Mayorga might deserve it more though. Close call.

Dan Rafael: I go with Miranda because his stuff is more thoughtful instead of just cursing and insulting. Miranda's is more amuzing and not nearly as nasty and even more inventive.

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Michael (Roxbury, NJ): To Miles: Because Paul williams is boring. he slap boxes for 12 rounds, and nobody wants to pay hundreds of dollars to see him...

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Kory (Missouri): Oscar-Manny fight isn't that big of difference when you consider guys like Langford and Bivins used to whip heavyweight when they were around welerweight.

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bill (carmel, ny): if miranda/pascal happens any idea where we will see it? hbo/sho/ppv?

Dan Rafael: It's open to whomever wants to pay for it although as I understand it ESPN would have the right to match the best offer if it decides to. It's possible it could happen without US TV as well since there is good money for the fight in Canada.

---

Anthony (Bronx, NY): On Max Kellerman's radio show, Brian Kenney said that Floyd gave Hatton "illegal targets" by turning his back while elluding punches. He also said that Hatton was winning the fight on the inside. Is Brian being a hater on PBF?

Dan Rafael: If he actually said that it sounds that way to me.

---

steve, pittsburgh: 3 fight contract for Berto? I thought Showtime was done with guaranteed contracts?

Dan Rafael: Apparently, not.

---

Dan (Nutley, NJ): I am a Verno Phillips fan. Do you like his chances against Spinks?

Dan Rafael: Not really. Spinks will outpoint him, but I was told today that the fight probably won't be on the Jan. 19 card as originally planned.

---

Josh (Lincoln, NE): How much bigger is HBO's boxing budget compared to Showtime's?

Dan Rafael: About double.

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Erik (Atlanta, Ga.): D$$$4 another website I won't mention the named said that PBF must fight Mayorga! Am I allowed to remove that website from my favorites?

Dan Rafael: Yes. Do you have any idea how foolish Mayweather would make Mayorga look?

---

Richard (Franklin Park, NJ): On Boxrec, they're reporting that PBF's next opponant is Brian Kenny.

---

E (Omaha): D$$- Do you think DeBella is telling Taylor for his rematch against Pavlik: "if that hammer lands, you're f---ed" Quote of the year

Dan Rafael: That was a classic quote from DiBella in the Valero story wasn't it?

---

David (Hercules, CA): More than the anthem-booing, I thought it was ironic that the Brits we're shushing everyone after the fight, trying to hear Hatton's post-fight comments. Would have been the perfect time for a USA-USA chant.

Dan Rafael: That would have been great.

---

E (Kansas City): What is the reason Spinks-Phillips may be off of the Jan 19 card?

Dan Rafael: Not sure. Something to do with the Spinks side as I understand it.

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Tom (Danbury,CT): Who will end up with more retirements? Mayweather or Michael Jordan?

Dan Rafael: Mayweather. I think they're already tied.

---

Lance (Montreal): Pick em: Jean Pascal or Lucian Bute

Dan Rafael: Bute.

---

David (Old Bridge): DTM, where you do order your boxing DVDs from ?

Dan Rafael: I don't order them. I either record stuff myself or trade with my network of people I have dealt with years.

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Jeff (Redondo Beach, CA): "Tito's got to go in fo'." Like Roy's career, his trash talk has really gone downhill fast.

---

Richard (Franklin Park, NJ): My drunken Brit bobbleheads don't bobble. They sway back and forth, trying to keep their balance.

---

chris (brooklyn, ny): did hatton land any clean hard shots on Floyd?

Dan Rafael: A couple.

---

R (Yay Area!): How come ESPN Classic airs certain past HBO PPV's (like Floyd-Gatti) but arent able to replay more of them?

Dan Rafael: Classic licensed Main Events' library, which is why you see fights with Main Events fights -- Gatti, Pernell, etc...

---

George (Toronto, ON): How shocked were the people around ringside that Mayweather stopped Hatton?

Dan Rafael: No one was shocked. Many of us believed a late stoppage was a very likely outcome. Personally, I thought points, but late stoppage didn't shock me one iota.

---

Richard (Franklin Park, NJ): Dan, did you ahve any pints of Guiness while you were in Vegas?

Dan Rafael: Not a one.

---

JKGaucho: (DC): Please clarify something for me. When Baldomir was the linear champ you kept him at #1 despite that fact that he was clearly not the best fighter. Now Casamayor is not #1 when he is not the best fighter. Sure he got a lucky decision, but he won and is still the linear champ.

Dan Rafael: If you read my rankings last month, I explained it.

---

Dan (Nutley, NJ): How's Grady Brewer doing?

Dan Rafael: Still sidelined with a bum knee.

---

Richard (Franklin Park, NJ): Dan, I believe you called it that the only way Floyd would KO Hatton is if he hit him with something that he didn't see coming. Which is exactly what happened in the 1st knockdown.

---

Gary (Biloxi): Dan, I work at a hospital. Rather than serving my annoying patients, I snuck into the waiting room to be with you on chat. Freak status?

Dan Rafael: I hope none of them dies while you are in the chat.

---

An (Chicago, IL): Dan the man, gotta say love the notebook this week. Who's in line to fight Calzaghe if a B-Hop fight can't be made?

Dan Rafael: The Calzaghe camp reached out to Winky, but the price was insane, so that's probably out. They could pursue Clinton Woods for a belt in the UK. I have a feeling the Hopkins fight will eventually get made.

---

John (ATL GA): NOTE TO SELF: Avoid hospitals in Biloxi!

---

Richard (Franklin Park, NJ): In some hospital somewhere, someones bedpan is overflowing...

---

Casamayor-Santa Cruz Judges (New York): In our eyes, this has been a great chat! Plenty of brilliant questions!

---

Joseph, San Antonio: Danimal, when can the freaks expect the end of the year awards notebook. Only 2 weeks left!

Dan Rafael: The year end stuff will roll out day by day near the end of the year -- fighter of the year, fight, ko, prospect, etc...

---

Bat Phone: Why haven't I rang today?

Dan Rafael: You have, I just haven't told you.

---

Patient (Biloxi): Help!! I need my breathing apparatus, and I think some fool dipped into this chat who is supposed to be helping me. Dan are you assisting in this?

---

Guhan (Middletown, CT): What's next on Dan's travel schedule? Roy vs. Tito?

Dan Rafael: Mexico for vacation and then Jones-Tito.

---

Linden (CA): Dan: How is it that Ortiz didn't get the match with Torres? Should we read anything into this?

Dan Rafael: Simple: Torres camp didn't want to fight him.

---

Erik (Los Angeles): Any truth that Margarito will be facing J.L. Castillo early next year on a double feature with Cotto.

Dan Rafael: That's what Arum is proposing but I would stunned if HBO accepted Castillo.

---

Maceo - Jolliet: Will Ronald Hearns be on the Taylor - Pavlik card?

Dan Rafael: Yes. And it will be part of the PPV card.

---

Bill (Boston): As a Yanks fan what do you think about Clemens now?

Dan Rafael: He was never a real Yankee. Never was, never will be.

---

David (San Francisco, CA): i saw you did not vote for Prince Naseem for the HOF, did you vote for Carbajal? If Carbajal is in I think the Prince should get the nod too.

Dan Rafael: I'm not sure what those two have to do with each other, but I did vote for Carbajal.

---

Tom (Danbury,CT): Do you agree with Arum's move of pulling Chavez from an HBO card against Gomez to his own PPV card against a lesser known opponent? I know fiancially it might be the right move, but boxing wise I don't think its that smart

Dan Rafael: Cash always trumps boxing. Remember that and you will be OK in this sport.

---

Joseph, San Antonio: D$$, I like PWill like everybody else but some people are making him out to be the next big thing and I just don't see that. Is it just me? What's your take on him?

Dan Rafael: I agree. Good fighter. Great physical specimen, good size. Maybe he will become an elite p4p guy, but he's not there yet. He was life and death with Margarito, which is a good win obviously, but at this stage, Cotto has accomplished way more than. Give Williams time and maybe he will be in some of those big fights eventually also.

---

Jose M La Habra CA: Dan, what's your gut feeling, will we ever see Edwin Valero fight here in the US?

Dan Rafael: I think eventually, he will be licensed.

---

Steve (Carmel, Indiana): Hey Dan, Who do you see having a better career, Chad Dawson or Jorge Linares?

Dan Rafael: They both have very bright futures.

---

John (ATL GA): DTM, good notebook! Why can't Diaz-Kasidas be moved to a date after March 31?

Dan Rafael: It can, but Feb 9 is the date HBO has for it and the HBO schedule is not too flexible sometimes.

---

Big M (Atlanta): What can you tell me about Danny Jacobs, the hot item that just made his pro debut on the PBF undercard? Sounds solid already.

Dan Rafael: It was sensational one-punc, left hook knockout in 29 seconds.

---

Tom (Danbury,CT): Over/under 4 rounds for the Valero fight tommorow night?

Dan Rafael: Under.

---

Ochs (Webster, NY): Dan, does someone tape the untelevised undercard fights at events? If so, do you ever get them as part of your trades?

Dan Rafael: Sometimes they are taped -- often they are -- and yes, I have many off TV fights in my collection.

---

Tim (Des Moines, IA): DR, Manny Steward seems to think Andy Lee is the real deal. He's in action Saturday against Jason McKay. Your thoughts?

Dan Rafael: I think Andy Lee -- the Lee Child -- is a monster prospect who someday will be on our p4p lists.

---

Matt (Washington, DC): Clip and save, Dan, clip and save: Paul Williams will be top six pound for pound by the middle of 2009 if people actually give him fights.

---

Cherry (San Juan): I get the sense that you were never a believer in Margarito - at least that he was a top guy. I'll lay it out there now, and predict that if he fights Cotto he'll beat him setting up a great round-robin at 147.

Dan Rafael: My feelings on Margarito are that he is a very good fighter, exciting to watch and will give most top guys problems but that he is not and never will be a truly elite welterweight. But that does not mean I don't love to watch him.

---

Ochs (Webster, NY): I should have known. Ok, here's a test of how deep your collection goes: do you have any amatuer fights in your collection? Home video type footage of something interesting, like Rahman-Mesi?

Dan Rafael: I have many amateur fights in my collection also. Olympic fights, Pan Am fights, US national fights, etc...

Dan Rafael: OK, Freaks, thanks for the questions today. Check out the notebook and rankings and enjoy tomorrow's Valero/Linares PPV if you're getting it. Talk to you next week.

 

[stringer bell 32]

good read, Amo

 

[stringer bell 32]

Results From Last Night's Show

Edwin Valero kept his knockout and undefeated streaks alive by stopping Zaid Zavaleta in the third round of their WBA super featherweight title match at the Plaza de Toros in Cancun on Saturday. Valero (23-0, 23 KOs) knocked Zavaleta down near the end of first round with a barrage of punches but Zavaleta managed to beat the count. Referee Luis Pabon looked close to stopping the bout on several occasions in the second round as Valero unloaded with a variety of hooks and crosses while Zavaleta did his best to hold on and tie up Valero on the inside. A combination of body punches followed by a left hook as Zavaleta was pinned against the ropes forced Pabon to step in at 1:18 of third round and prevent Zavaleta from taking further punishment.

On the undercard, Jorge Linares retained his WBC featherweight title by stopping Gamaliel Diaz in the eighth round. Linares (25-0, 16 KOs) had Diaz down and nearly out in the fourth round but Diaz fought back gamely. The Venezuelan put Diaz down again with a right hand late in Round 8 and this time, Diaz could not beat the count.

 

[amohoop34]

Here are the KO's that Stringer reported. The Linares KO of Diaz was rediculously vicious.

Here is the Valero on Zavaleta KO

 

[stringer bell 32]

I snoozed on the PPV, had I viewed this thread just an hour earlier I would've seen both fights.

I'm so disappointed. I gotta mark Linares' next fight on my calendar

 

[locorican21]

Wow...it's been a loooooong time since i've been around these parts. That, and I had to deal with the Yuku drama...

Anyway, hope i'm not too late but it's my picks for "______ Of The Year"

Fighter(s) Of The Year:

Floyd Mayweather (Solely for name value)
Miguel Cotto (I'm a little biased because he's my favorite fighter but he finally stepped into the spotlight w/ the win over Mosley, 08' is gonnabe even bigger

)
Kelly Pavlik (Dominated both Zertuche and "Fighter Of The Moment" Miranda (Him alittle less so) then got up off the canvas to KO Taylor)

Breakout Fighter Of The Year:

Juan Diaz (Might be a surprise pick to some, but he's always been accused of having a "Padded" record meaning he's fought lesseropposition, but IMO he really came into his own this year. He dominated both Popo Frietas (And ate through his punches like nothing) and Julio Diaz)

Andre Berto

Kelly Pavlik (Reasons stated above)

Fight(s) Of The Year:

Cotto Vs. Judah

Codrington Vs. Bika

Pavlik Vs. Taylor was good, but somewhat overrated

KO Of The Year:

Sleeper... Kermit Cintron KO of Walter Matthysse...

BRUTAL.

 

[amohoop34]

Originally Posted by Locorican21


Wow...it's been a loooooong time since i've been around these parts. That, and I had to deal with the Yuku drama...

Anyway, hope i'm not too late but it's my picks for "______ Of The Year"

Fighter(s) Of The Year:

Floyd Mayweather (Solely for name value)
Miguel Cotto (I'm a little biased because he's my favorite fighter but he finally stepped into the spotlight w/ the win over Mosley, 08' is gonna be even bigger

)
Kelly Pavlik (Dominated both Zertuche and "Fighter Of The Moment" Miranda (Him alittle less so) then got up off the canvas to KO Taylor)

Breakout Fighter Of The Year:

Juan Diaz (Might be a surprise pick to some, but he's always been accused of having a "Padded" record meaning he's fought lesser opposition, but IMO he really came into his own this year. He dominated both Popo Frietas (And ate through his punches like nothing) and Julio Diaz)

Andre Berto

Kelly Pavlik (Reasons stated above)

Fight(s) Of The Year:

Cotto Vs. Judah

Codrington Vs. Bika

Pavlik Vs. Taylor was good, but somewhat overrated

KO Of The Year:

Sleeper... Kermit Cintron KO of Walter Matthysse...

BRUTAL.

My name is amohoop34 and i approve of these picks.

But yeah, good call on Diaz for breakout fighter. He did prove himself against REALLY good comp this year, and seems to get better everytime out. Don Kinghas to stop being such an%%@$ hole and let Diaz-Katsidis happen. It'll happen either now or later though. If Don won't let them do the fight in earlyFeb, then they'll just sign the fight when Diaz' contract with DK expires in March and set it for sometime in the late spring/early summer.
And thatCintron KO of Mathysse is brutal. Def one of my favs this year.

 

[mayweathermiami]

seriously who the *+!$ does winky think he is , he aint gonna fight anybody if he keeps out pricing himself haha

 

[japanair21]

I know I'm super late on this, but how did you guys like this past 24/7?

I thought it was fairly interesting, and I love watching Floyd talk, absolute genius.

Hatton and his crew was actually somewhat irritating. But his kid was pretty cute I must admit.



Wait, I don't mean cute, I forgot the word cute is forbidden for use on NT.

.

 

[mextra45]

Valero straight up beat the brakes off Zavaleta , i swear he hit him with 17 straight left hands . Linares is about as smooth as it gets excellent techinicallyit was good scrap though . With JMM getting older Linares looks like the guy to take his spot

 

[gunna get it]

I missed the Cancun Fights, any free replays showing anywhere?

 

[mayweathermiami]

honorable mention for KO of the year..........................was anyybody left more stunned watching pavlick torch miranda , that #*+@ was cold

 

[amohoop34]

Originally Posted by MayweatherMiami

honorable mention for KO of the year..........................was anyybody left more stunned watching pavlick torch miranda , that #*+@ was cold

And Gunna, there aren't gonna be replays shown. It was an independent PPV without any distribution deal with Showtime or HBO, so the only wayto see it at this point is to download the fights somewhere.

 

[gunna get it]

tell me dude dont look like a brolic Steve Nash

 

[amohoop34]

rollin
Thats the exact thing i thought when i saw him. Son does look like Steve Nash, but with a 70's lookin hairstyle. I still aint tryiin to be on the receivingend of homies punches though.

 

[locorican21]

My name is amohoop34 and i approve of these picks.

What's goin' on, Amo. It's actuallyLESGodSon, I wasn't able to switch names when we moved to Yuku.

I know I'm super late on this, but how did you guys like this past 24/7?
Boxing-wise, the 1st edition was much better.

But if you watch strictly for the personalities, Hatton has more of a personality than De La Hoya does.

 

[theprofessorofpugilism]

What up Les, my amohoop34 name was actually banned for about 2 weeks after the yuku switch, which is why i created this one. Then hella randomly they unblockedmy amohoop34 name, so now i have both. I mainly use this one now, but i still post with the other one on occasion, mainly when i need to update the title ofthe post. Allthough 2 more weeks and that won't be necessary anymore.

As for the 24/7 question, i enjoyed this one more. Hatton is much more of a character than De La Hoya. Oscar is so media cautious that his whole side justseemed kinda fake and scripted. Hatton came off as much more honest when he voiced his opinion on stuff, and his true character showed through more, making itmore interesting. I'm thinking what other fights would make for a good 24/7. I know it wouldn't be a big enough mainstream fight to warrant it, butfrom a material standpoint, i think the potential Edison Miranda-Jean Pascal fight has enough ego and personality to fill up 4 episodes worth of hype. Otherthan that i'm strugging, not a lot of potential big fights that have fighters with personality.

 

[mayweathermiami]

if there is a boxing god then J.t will beat kelly in january and and miranda gets his revenge on kelly at 168 no need to drain........then





my ultimate fantasy fight





miranda VS J.T(which would make for a great 24/7....cause i aint never seen jt blow up on someone like he did on miranda)

 

[lesgodsonc0]

Other than that i'm strugging, not a lot of potential big fights that have fighters with personality.

Hopkins/Calzaghe?