Adonis Stevenson vs Tony Bellew: Bomb resistance needed for Bellew

By Peter Wells (@boxingsaddler):

Talking a good fight: But Stevenson(right) & Bellew(left) usually deliver

Many laughed at Adonis Stevenson when he sat waiting as mandatory challenger for the IBF and WBC titles back at Super Middleweight, but the Canadian born in Haiti ignored the ignorance of boxing fans and press alike. He bided his time before springing at the opportunity he was afforded by Chad Dawson in June this year. Adonis 22-1(19) and his team were the only ones convinced he would win, and he made fools of us all when he demolished Dawson in one round. Stevenson always knew he would have the last laugh.

Now the tables have turned and his opponent on Saturday night in Quebec City will be the man dismissed as nothing more than an obstacle in the way of Stevenson's nights in the spotlight. But Liverpool's Tony Bellew 20-1-1(12) is out on a mission, the same mission that Stevenson took in order to prove why he dubbed himself 'Superman'.

Bellew will need to produce a super human performance to overturn the odds, but the assured fighter almost upset the applecart back in 2011 when he narrowly lost to British rival Nathan Cleverly, his only previous world title bout. Since that first defeat Bellew has mixed with decent fringe contenders in a poor Light Heavyweight division that outside of stars Bernard Hopkins, Sergey Kovalev and Adonis Stevenson isn't flourishing with talent, although the winner of a highly anticipated contest between Lucian Bute and Jean Pascal will have something to say about that.

Tony has beaten a faded Edison Miranda (TKO 9), an untested Roberto Feliciano Bolonti (UD 12) before drawing with Isaac Chilemba when many observers had Chilemba slightly ahead. He then improved considerably in the second encounter with Chilemba as he won a unanimous decision. But the real concerns surrounding Bellew, who has undeniably improved in recent years, are his struggles at domestic level. He survived a torrid time with Ovill McKenzie (W TKO 8), suffering two knockdowns in the first 2 rounds. Prior to that Bob Ajisafe (W UD 12) had Bellew on the canvas as did journeyman Jevgenijs Andrejevs (W PTS 4).

Bellew is the only one who has shown vulnerabilities in the defensive department as Stevenson's only defeat came by way of knockout when he was stunned by rugged journeyman Darnell Boone (L TKO 2). In defence of Stevenson it was only his 14th fight and immaturity will have been to blame, which is much the same with Bellew. Since that defeat Stevenson has been on fire, stopping all of his opponents including Aaron Pryor Jr (TKO 9), Jesus Gonzalez (KO 1), Don George (TKO 12) a revenge over Darnell Boone (KO 6), Chad Dawson (KO 1) and Tavoris Cloud (RTD 7). Again much like Bellew outside of Dawson and Cloud none of those opponents were world beaters, but his power in each of those victories was apparent and scary.

Power: Adonis put as much into that left hand as he
did into his celebration afterwards

In the case of his victory over former IBF champion Cloud, Stevenson surprised many when he boxed his way to victory, schooling Cloud even more comprehensively than Bernard Hopkins earlier this year. Adonis erased any fears over him being a one-dimensional fighter, and he will require that versatility against Bellew on Saturday.

So while the whole of the UK will be routing for Bellew, he is at a huge disadvantage in many departments. If he brings in the straight right hand against the southpaw boxer he instantly brings into play Stevenson's most potent weapon, the straight left hand, an error many of Adonis' previous opponents have made. And while Bellew arguably has the better jab, the sheer speed of Adonis will trouble Bellew if he tries to outbox the home fighter. Then comes the power, and while Bellew will find openings of his own, his punches had very little effect on Isaac Chilemba and it is unlikely they'll cause much effect on Stevenson either.

The pick is for Bellew to start tentatively, attempting not to offer Stevenson with an early chance at levelling him with the left hand. As the fight closes in on the half way stage Stevenson's power will start to tell and Bellew will stick to the outside, allowing Stevenson to control the contest at his pace. But Bellew being the warrior he is, it's unlikely he'll settle for just second best as he pushes to disrupt Stevenson's rhythm. Ultimately though this go for broke attitude will cost Bellew in the end as he leaves himself more and more open as the contest progresses, eventually one clean left hand will connect and the fight will be over, likely between rounds 8-10. Bellew will receive many plaudits after the fight but Stevenson will once again prove that his reign as WBC Light Heavyweight champion is no fluke.

On the undercard, Sergey Kovalev 22-0-1(20) looks to defend his WBO Light Heavyweight title against Ismayl Sillakh 21-1(17).

The Russian that dethroned Nathan Cleverly will be looking to set up a mouth watering unification fight with Stevenson and will likely set it up in style, stopping the game Sillakh in 5 rounds.

Championship night in the Philippines

By Peter Wells (twitter- @boxingsaddler):

While the Philippines have been ravaged by tragedy in the last month, superstar Manny Pacquiao brought back some elation to his beloved nation when he dominated Brandon Rios last weekend. Now on Saturday night, boxing returns to the Philippines as two of the countries world champions look to defend their respective crowns.

Boxing in the Philippines is rarely aired worldwide which will come as a disappointment to those that hear or read about the contests later on. Many fight of the year candidates have gone unnoticed in such countries as the Philippines and Thailand where lightning fast stars entertain hundreds with their all offence styles in the blissful heat. 

On Saturday WBO Minimumweight champion Merlito Sabillo 23-0(12) defends his title for the first time after dethroning Jorle Estrada in 9 rounds last time out.  His opponent Carlos Buitrago 27-0(16) of Nicaragua will likely deliver a much sterner test having bested unbeaten Julian Yedras last time out. 

But it is Sabillo who enters the contest hitting the peak of his career, coming in off the back of 5 stoppage victories including a notable 8^th round TKO of Luis de la Rosa in Columbia. But prior to his two recent wins Sabillo had not contested with any fighter at the same level as Buitrago who has mixed with slightly sterner opposition in his 5 years as a professional.

Sabillo known as a very good body puncher will look to break Buitrago down early as the two unbeaten combatants go toe-to-toe. Buitrago who hits harder than any of Sabillo’s previous opponents may force himself into the lead by the half way stage, keeping his guard tight before firing in the right hand against the southpaw champion, while his favoured left hook will also keep Sabillo honest. That will be countered regularly by the straight left from Sabillo whose fast hands could cause problems for Buitrago as the fight wears on. Behind on the scorecards Sabillo can rally late, finally chopping down the tough 21 year old challenger, stopping him in the 10^th round of a thoroughly entertaining contest.

Also featuring is one of the Philippines more well-known world champions, Donnie Nietes 31-1-4(17) who defends his WBO Light Flyweight title for the third time after claiming it back in 2011. His challenger will be the tough but limited Sammy Gutierrez 33-9-2(23) of Mexico.

Donnie the former WBO Minimumweight champion has barely put a foot wrong since outpointing Pornsawan Porpramook in 2007. That victory has been followed by wins over Erik Ramirez (UD 12) whom he floored four times yet still only won by a close margin on all three cards, Manuel Vargas (SD 12), Ramon Garcia Hirales (UD 12) and Felipe Salguero (UD 12). In his last contest he drew with Moises Fuentes, who is, outside of Porpramook by far his toughest opponent to date.

So while Nietes may have been fortunate in some of his encounters, his opponent Gutierrez has had no such luck finding himself at the wrong end of split and majority decision defeats to Raul Garcia before losing in 3 rounds in their 3^rd contest last December – Sammy’s last contest. He has also suffered at the hands of Nkosinathi Joyi (L TKO 7) after flooring the South African in the 5^th, and Juan Palacios (L UD 12) as well as 4 others. His only other stoppage defeat came at the hands of the little known Armando Torres (L TKO 8).

Nietes has a solid defence, but has been a victim of a lack of bustle in the ring, spending too much time looking for the perfect counterpunch. This could allow Gutierrez to outwork the champion, but the Mexican usually seems quite messy when he fires his shots which will give plenty of opportunities for Nietes to let his hands go, not like against Fuentes who boasted an equally tight guard. Gutierrez will struggle to land throughout but Nietes does not seem to have the power to force a stoppage and will have to settle for a comprehensive points win after a relatively one-sided contest. Bigger tests lie in wait for Nietes and fans will hope that he takes on those challenges with Nkosinathi Joyi and Adrien Hernandez hounding the Light Flyweight division while a rematch may be in the pipeline with Fuentes next year.

Elsewhere Jason Pegara 31-2(19) can stop Vladimir Baez 19-1-2(17) in possibly the fight of the night, albeit neither fighter will pose much of a challenge to a packed Light Welterweight world scene.
 

In another exciting encounter Milan Melindo 29-1(12) can outpoint Jose Alfredo Rodriguez 29-2(18) in a Flyweight contest.

Also in action on a separate card in America is the heavily tattooed and still unbeaten Paul Spadafora 48-0-1(19).

The former IBF Lightweight champion has wins over Israel Cardona (UD 12), Renato Cornett (TKO 11), Billy Irwin (UD 12), Angel Manfredy (UD 12) and Dennis Holbaek Pederson (UD 12). Now he will be hoping that a win over Johan Perez 17-1-1(12) for the interim WBA Light Welterweight title will bring him the big money fights he craves, and at the age of 38 not many more opportunities are out there for Spadafora.

Perez will be up for this contest as well, his only defeat coming via a technical decision to Pablo Cesar Cano when the fight was still very close. A victory last time out against Yoshihiro Kamegai (UD 10) will give the Venezuelan confidence he can upset the apple-cart and the counterpunching style that Spadafora applies may well be becoming less effective as he nears 40. As luck usually goes Perez will beat Spadafora, spoiling any chances of a shot at the big time for the Pittsburgh fighter. But the safe pick is for Spadafora to still have enough to make Perez miss, but it will be a tight and it will be a clear indication that time on the world scene is running thin for Spadafora to make a splash.  

                                                                                                                                                                    

Froch-Groves Undercard Preview

By Peter Wells (twitter- @boxingsaddler):

Despite the loss of a cracking British lightweight battle between Martin Gethin and Anthony Crolla, the undercard is still jam packed with exciting action.

Quigg(left) & Silva(right) ahead of their world title showdown

Scott Quigg defends his WBA 'world' Super Bantamweight title against Argentinian Diego Oscar Silva.

Silva 29-2-4(15) was stopped in 3 rounds by Fernando Montiel back in 2009 at Bantamweight and holds very few victories of note. An 11th round stoppage win over Alex De Oliveira was his best win to date but last time out in June he drew with Nestor Hugo Paniagua who was stopped in a round by a 4-0 Yuriokis Gamboa.

The man who has only fought once outside of South America will have it all to do against Quigg 26-0-2(19) who comes off the back of a draw as well. But Quigg drew with talented but still developing Yoandris Salinas just last month. It is incredible to see a world champion defending his title so quickly, but after the opening few rounds the fans will see why Quigg didn't need a layoff for this voluntary defence. Quigg can impress in front of his home fans, stopping Silva in the second half of the contest.

In a slightly more taxing affair, Rocky Fielding will make the first defence of his Commonwealth Super Middleweight title against the local Luke Blackledge.

Fielding 16-0(9) has been moving through the development stage very smoothly, beating Mohammad Akrong in just one round last time out. Blackledge 14-1-2(5) however gave a good account of himself against unbeaten Erik Skoglund(L UD 10) and destroyed Mads Larson(KO 4) who had previously gone 7 rounds with Brian Magee and the distance with Sven Ottke. He also has points wins over Phill Fury and Matthew Barney.

However the pick is for Fielding to follow Skoglund's lead and take a points victory over the 12 round distance.

In another 12 rounder Anthony Crolla steps in with late replacement Stephen Foster Jr. As Crolla waits for his British title fight with Martin Gethin to be rescheduled for next year.

Foster has campaigned most of his career at Super Featherweight but with the short notice the former European Super Featherweight champion won't mind being sparred any added gruelling weight loss. Foster's only defeats come to top domestic and European opposition, Derry Matthews(UD 12), Alex Arthur(UD 12), Ermano Fegatilli(UD 12) and Gary Buckland(RTD 8). But that 3rd defeat to Fegatilli seemed to take all the sting out of the 33 year olds career.

Crolla 26-4-1(9) has endured quite a rollercoaster career, early career defeats to journeyman Youssef Al Hamidi(UD 8) and the former British Super Featherweight champion Gary Sykes(PTS 10). This was followed by a winning streak that resulted in a British title fight victory over John Watson(TKO 9) before a successful defence against Wille Limond(UD 12).



No mistakes allowed: Crolla(left) must beat Foster(right)

So just as things were moving smoothly for Anthony he was struck by another defeat this time to Derry Matthews(TKO 6) whom he later drew with over 12 rounds. A second defeat to Sykes(SD 3) this time in Prizefighter has been followed by victories over Kieran Farrell(UD 10) and most impressively Gavin Rees(MD 12).

So with erratic form it can be hard to predict what to expect from Crolla but Foster will not be in great shape for this contest having been called up at short notice and with a British title shot in the pipeline Crolla can score a late stoppage victory.

Also on the card is Stephen Smith 17-1(10) lining up his root to a world title shot against WBC Super Featherweight champion Takashi Miura. Firstly the former British champion who vacated the title to leave Frank Warren will have to navigate his way past Sergio Manuel Medina 39-6-1(21).

The Argentinian who lost last time out to Fernando David Saucedo, who Smith will face in a final eliminator if he is victorious, will remain in the contest for the opening few rounds but Smith can use his speed advantage to full use, taking a unanimous decision at the end of the 10 rounds.

Also in action and all expected to win are Scott Cardle 12-0(2) who can beat Krzysztof Szot 17-8-1(5) on points. Jamie McDonnell 21-2-1(9) who was harshly stripped of his IBF Bantamweight title can beat Bernard Inom 22-3-1(10) over 8 rounds, while Khalid Yafai 9-0(6) and Luke Campbell 3-0(3) can both score stoppages over Abigail Medina 9-2-2(5) and Morgan Duthes 5-0(1) respectively. Finally Andy Lee 30-2(21) can make short work of Ferenc Hafner 21-4(12)

Carl Froch vs George Groves: Disrespectful warfare

By Peter Wells (twitter- @boxingsaddler):

Best of enemies: Froch(right) taunts Groves(left) during a heated weigh-in

It's so simple to compare the glorified brutality of boxing to old tales of wars and heroes. All that is needed is two warriors of differing personalities or a considerable underdog or a bitter rivalry. Better still, you could have all three of those ingredients and the metaphors and similes will roll off the tongue as fast as Floyd Mayweather hits the pads. The fairy-tale here is simple; can the Saint slay the Cobra?

After a long and hefty build up these two best of enemies Carl Froch 31-2(22) and George Groves 19-0(15) meet in the ring on Saturday night in front of a packed out Phones 4U Arena in Manchester(still known to many as the M.E.N Arena).


Groves comes in as the young pretender, disrespecting the cream of the crop in the British pound-for-pound rankings. And following three none too taxing stoppage wins he has earned his status as Froch's mandatory challenger for the Nottingham mans WBA & IBF Super Middleweight titles.

Groves' biggest victories of his short career have come against previous British rival James DeGale(W MD 12) and the Jamaican warhorse Glen Johnson(W UD 12). George took the 'good guy' role before his clash with DeGale and came out on top after dragging the talented 2008 Olympic Gold medallist into a tooth-and-nail battle. Groves wont be implementing the same tactics this time around but he showed just how well he can follow a game plan and also his brilliant ring generalship.

A lot of that tactical nous came from his now old trainer Adam Booth, most well known in boxing circles for his ability to draw out the perfect tactics. It seemed that together Booth and Groves had been eying up Froch for some time, so will the change have a negative effect? Or will new head coach Paddy Fitzpatrick devise the perfect strategy?

As for Froch a game plan will be far easier to come by, in his recent rich vein of form there'll be little changes from the intelligent stalking that brought him victories over Lucian Bute(TKO 5), Yusaf Mack(KO 3) and Mikkel Kessler(UD 12).

The Kessler rematch in May, where he avenged a close decision loss in Denmark 3 years earlier, showed a wiser side to Carls game. The jab was a potent weapon and Kessler seemed confused as to the tactical switch in Froch's arsenal. But prior to his hot win streak he was picked apart by boxing starlet Andre Ward(L UD 12), and while Carl has attempted to point to the two 115-113 scorecards as a consolation, they hardly reflected how much the Californian dominated.

Much has been made of Froch's resume, wins coming against; Jean Pascal(UD 12), Jermain Taylor(TKO 12), Andre Dirrell(SD 12), Arthur Abraham(UD 12) and Glen Johnson(UD 12). He also boasts notable wins against Brian Magee(KO 11), Robin Reid(RTD 5), Tony Dodson(KO 3) and Albert Rybacki(TKO 4). Add in Mack, Bute, his two meetings with Kessler and his only unavenged loss to Ward and you have one of the best boxing records of his era.


Groves won his last 'battle of Britain' but this is a step up from DeGale

So the feeling is that Groves is levels below 'The Cobra' but his development has been of the highest quality, much likes Froch's was before he stepped in with Jean Pascal. But unlike Groves, Froch was entering into his first world title fight with an opponent also stepping up in class, not a 4-time world champion.

Wins over Kenny Anderson(TKO 6), Paul Smith(TKO 2), Francisco Sierra(TKO 6), Noe Gonzalez Alcoba(TKO 5) as well as Johnson and DeGale are all very impressive for a developing fighter, but when in the ring with Froch, the developing process has to be finished. George Groves must be at his full potential.

Froch will be venomous throughout the 12 rounds, with the likelihood that Groves' punches will have little effect on the man that twice walked through the fists of Kessler. Yet it is worth noting that the slick counter-puncher Jermain Taylor had Froch on the seat of his pants in the 3rd round of their contest, but the days of slow starting seem to be behind Froch now.

Groves' knack of sticking to a game plan has given many the feeling that the Hammersmith fighter has a chance in this contest. If he manages to keep Froch on the end of his jab before snapping in long right hands and then sliding low to his right out of danger for the full 12 rounds then I can see Groves taking the surprise victory on points.



Ward dominated Froch but Carl gave him his toughest fight to date

But that would be a huge shout and it's an even bigger "if". So while Groves' strategy may be perfect, carrying it out against Froch will prove to be a puzzle in itself.

While many see Froch darting out of the blocks I envision the veteran of this contest to box behind his ramrod jab for the opening 4 rounds. In close rounds short burst near the end of each stanza from Froch may give him the edge in some tentative rounds. If Groves is not ahead by round 5 then the likelihood he'll win the contest becomes even smaller.

Carl's confidence will grow from the 5th round and while these middle rounds are usually where Froch takes command this will prove to be Groves' best shot at creating a rhythm. While Froch starts to find his groove Groves can take rounds 5 and 6, using the right hand on a more regular basis. But the confidence that Groves will find may be short lived as Froch will eventually catch the underdog with a clean shot, before he pushes for the stoppage. Groves can survive several scary moments between rounds 7-10 but will find himself a little bit too far back on the cards.

Froch in rhythm will continue to push for the knockout but may ease off slightly in the final round, seeing that he is in command, before receiving a clear decision victory after 12 tactically thrilling rounds.

Andre Ward vs Edwin Rodriguez: The Prodigy returns

By Peter Wells (twitter- @boxingsaddler):

Ward(left) & Rodriguez(right) face off ahead of Saturday's fight

Public disapproval wont change Andre Ward, and why not, at 26-0(14) no fighter has discovered a blueprint to beat him, so why switch tactics. If its not broken, don't fix it! Mikkel Kessler, Arthur Abraham, Carl Froch, Chad Dawson and several other top 10 Super Middleweight fighters have been left scratching their heads or in some cases not giving Ward the credit he deserves - because he didn't stand and trade with them. Or more to the point, because he was quite simply better than them.

Ward has proven to be leagues above his closest rivals and is in need of fresh faces to offer him the challenge he craves. It has been 14 months since Ward systematically took apart a weight drained Chad Dawson, injury leaving the pound-for-pound star on the side-lines. And that long wait couldn't have been helped by Kessler and Froch's comments about the Californian ahead of their rematch earlier this year.

The whole waiting game will have only made Ward hungrier, but talking about being hungry, Edwin Rodriguez 24-0(16) has been through a long and tiresome journey, and I'm not talking about in the ring.  Just over 6 years ago, Edwin's wife gave birth to twins 16 weeks premature. For a long time it looked as though his son and daughter would not survive. But Edwin Jr and Serena managed to pull through, and although both suffer from autism they are alive and well, against all the odds. Now it is their fathers turn to beat the odds.

Throughout his son and daughters struggles Edwin has fought on in the ring, winning every contest to date, earning money has been a necessity for the Rodriguez family and there was no one more deserving to win the $1million prize for winning a four man tournament in Monaco. A 1st round annihilation of Denis Grachev ensured a life-changing sum of money and more importantly a shot at the big time he has worked so hard for.



Family first: The Rodriguez family have already won their toughest battle

From an early stage in his career Rodriguez has not been matched easy, with wins coming against James McGirt(TKO 9), Aaron Pryor Jr(UD 10), Will Rosinsky(UD 10), Don George(UD 10), Jason Escalera(TKO 8) and Ezequiel Osvaldo Maderna(UD 10) as well as Grachev. And the trend continues as Rodriguez could not have been matched harder in his first world title shot.

As for Ward the exquisite boxer also set his career alight when entering a tournament. The Super Middleweight Super Six kick started his career instantly when he bullied Mikkel Kessler(TD 11) in a one-sided affair. Other victories have come against; Henry Buchanan(UD 12), Edison Miranda(UD 12), Allan Green(UD 12), Sakio Bika(UD 12), Arthur Abraham(UD 12), Carl Froch(UD 12) and Chad Dawson(TKO 10).

Wards record speaks for itself and his fighting style will leave Rodriguez with little room for error. Edwin will have size on his side though, having fought up at Light Heavyweight he comes in with a 5inch reach advantage and against Ward will have to use this to full effect. Ward is deceptively strong and can tie the biggest of challengers up when they get inside. This will mean Edwin will have to fight from the outside, and assert his reach to deny Ward controlling proceedings from the end of his jab.

Rodriguez also packs a punch with his backhand, but will find very few opportunities to launch his heavy artillery, as Ward always uses his speed to great effect, which will allow him to move in and out without coming out on the end of a Rodriguez right hand.



Too good: Ward(right) is pushed by Froch(right) but wins comfortably

I expect Ward to offer different angles for Rodriguez, not allowing the Dominican Republic fighter to plant his feet with any consistency. With Ward constantly moving, it will deny Edwin the chance to settle behind his long reach, thus slowing the pace down to a level in which Ward can control proceedings. With short left hooks and snapping right hands Ward can dart in and out while avoiding counter punches with clever lateral movement. And while it would make for a wonderful story to see Rodriguez triumph after all that he has been through it is unlikely that Ward will slip up on Saturday night. Andre can continue his unbeaten streak, while ending Rodriguez's with a wide unanimous decision win.

On the undercard their is an intriguing clash of unbeaten fighters as Brandon Gonzales 17-0-1(10) takes on Jonathan Nelson 18-0(8) in a 10 round Super Middleweight bout. Gonzales was unlucky to draw last time out to Thomas Oosthuizen while Nelson is taking a big step up in class.

The pick is for Gonzales to box cautiously, losing a few of the opening rounds before upping the tempo and picking apart Nelson on route to a victory on the cards.

Last weekends results

By Peter Wells (twitter- @boxingsaddler):

Friday 8th November
Martin Antonio Coggi 30-6-3(16) L UD 10 Cesar David Inalef 16-3-1(5)
Lee Haskins 28-3(12) W UD 12 Jason Booth 37-12(15)
Hughie Fury 12-0(7) W TKO 4 David Gegeshidze 10-5-1(2)
Saturday 9th November
Juan Carlos Salgado 26-3-1(16) L TKO 11 Miguel Roman 44-11(33)
Lukasz Wawrzyczek 18-2-2(2) L UD 10 Maciej Sulecki 16-0(3)
Norbert Dabrowski 13-0(6) W TKO 2 Mindia Nozadze 14-6(9)
Hekkie Budler 24-1(7) W TKO 4 Hugo Hernan Verchelli 11-2(6)
IBO Minimumweight title
Thomas Oosthuizen 22-0-2(13) W MD 12 Ezquiel Osvaldo Maderna 20-2(13)
IBO Super Middleweight title
Vyacheslav Uzelkov 30-3(19) W TKO 6 Jaidon Codrington 21-4(17)
Alejandro Perez 19-3-1(13) W TKO 2 Miguel Zamudio 25-3-1(13)
Dmitriy Salita 35-2-1(18) L UD 10 Gabriel Bracero 23-1(4)
Vanes Martirosyan 33-1-1(21) L SD 12 Demetrius Andrade 20-0(13)
vacant WBO Light Middleweight title
Mikey Garcia 33-0(28) W KO 8 Rocky Martinez 27-2-2(16)
WBO Super Featherweight title
Nicholas Walters 23-0(19) W TKO 4 Alberto Garza 25-6-1(20)
WBA 'world' Featherweight title
Nonito Donaire 32-2(21) W TKO 9 Vic Darchinyan 39-6-1(28)
Sunday 10th November
Shinsuke Yamanaka 20-0-2(15) W KO 9 Alberto Guevara 18-2(6)
WBC Bantamweight title
Takahiro Ao 25-3-1(12) W KO 1 Edgar Alejandro Lomeli 14-4-2(8)
Roman Gonzalez 37-0(31) W TKO 2 Oscar Blanquet 32-7-1(23)
Jorge Linares 35-3(23) W KO 1 Francisco Contreras 21-4(16)
Ali Raymi 20-0(20) W KO 1 Akram Jafwi 5-1(1)
Monday 11th November
Luis Ramos Jr 23-2(10) L TKO 7 Fidel Maldonado Jr 17-2(14)
Fernando Guerrero 26-2(19) W UD 10 Raymond Gatica 13-2(8)
Terrell Gausha 7-0(5) W KO 1 Andres Calixto Rey 4-5(4)
Miguel Flores 13-0(8) W TKO 3 Arturo Herrera 11-27-1(6)
Tuesday 12th November
Michael Oliveira 21-2(16) L UD 10 Norberto Gonzalez 18-2(13)
Yuri Foreman 32-2(9) W KO 1 Javier Gomez 14-12(10)

Mikey Garcia vs Rocky Martinez: Has Rocky's luck run out?

By Peter Wells (twitter- @boxingsaddler):

Martinez(left) & Garcia(right) face off ahead of tonight's clash

Sometimes being an unknown fighter to the casual fans can bring about its positives, just ask Roman 'Rocky' Martinez who has been involved in three straight contentious decisions. Yet Rocky has received none of the abuse that Timothy Bradley received after he was handed a very controversial split decision win against the idolised Manny Pacquiao. Its unlikely that Bradley ever begrudged Martinez but I'm pretty sure he felt somewhat angry that he was at the wrong end of a tirade of unsavoury messages for something he had no control over. Hard-core fans said exactly that, which is why the judges rather than the fighter were rightly at the centre of fans frustrations.

On Saturday night Mikey Garcia 32-0(27) will be hoping to emulate what Beltran Jr, Burgos and Magdelano were unfortunate in most peoples eyes not to do. But that's not to say that Martinez 27-1-2(16) didn't receive support suggesting he rightly won all three of those fights. They were all close for a start but it seemed that the general consensus was that Martinez is fortunate to still be the WBO Super Featherweight champion.

As for Garcia he had no such luck at Featherweight when he failed to make weight ahead of his contest with Juan Manuel Lopez(TKO 4), leaving the WBO to strip him of their title. Garcia took his frustrations out on a Lopez who has never quite been the same since he was exposed by Orlando Salido - Lopez is far from being the only fighter that Salido has exposed.

Outside of that demolition of Lopez, Garcia has built up quite an impressive resume including victories over; Matt Remillard(RTD 10), Bernabe Concepcion(TKO 7), Jonathan Victor Barros(TKO 8) and Orlando Salido(TD 8). Against Salido who has gone on to recapture his title Garcia floored the Mexican 4 times in a incredibly one-sided affair.



Moving up: Garcia(left) destroys Lopez but that was at the weight below

While Garcia is an adept boxer and big puncher, Martinez shares similar attributes as a hard puncher and a good boxer, and he has needed that versatility to record wins over the aforementioned Diego Magdelano(SD 12), Miguel Beltran Jr(SD 12) and a draw with Juan Carlos Burgos while also taking on; Nicky Cook (W TKO 4), Feider Viloria(W KO 9) and Gonzalo Munguia(W KO 4). His only defeat came at the hands of current WBO Lightweight champion Ricky Burns(L UD 12).

The styles of the two fighters makes for an interesting fight, with both showing one-punch power, excellent timing and good boxing skills. But the feeling is that Salido has the slight edge in all of those departments.

Garcia always looked big at Featherweight and even though he stands 2 inches shorter than Puerto Rican Martinez, the Californian has the bigger build. Martinez must try to disrupt Garcia's rhythm and not become predictable in his attack or defence.

The pick is for Martinez to start the brighter, working at a high pace, in an attempt to unnerve the challenger. As the fight enters the second half Garcia will begin to time Martinez as he comes in, landing hurtful shots while also keeping Martinez off balance. As the tempo drops the more Garcia will control the fight and he should be able to continue boxing neatly down the stretch to score a close but unanimous decision win.



Garza(left) is ready to challenge the unbeaten Walters(right)

To conclude a great night of boxing, WBA 'world' Featherweight champion Nicholas Walters of Jamaica defends against Alberto Garza 25-5-1(20).

Both fighters come in with reputations as big punchers but neither have any big names on those resumes. At 22-0(18) Walters best wins come against Daulis Prescott(TKO 7) and Irving Berry(TKO 6) while Garza's best wins are against Nery Saguilan(TKO 9) and Justin Savi(UD 12). But for Garza his five conquers are no world beaters and he has been halted three times, giving the impression that Walters has a chance to impress.

The pick is for Walters to control proceedings, but Garza will keep pushing the Jamaican hard before he finally succumbs inbetween rounds 7-9.

Demetrius Andrade vs Vanes Martirosyan: One for the purists

By Peter Wells: (twitter- @boxingsaddler):



Heated: Martirosyan(left) & Andrade(right) at yesterday's weigh in

When it comes to fighters deserving a shot at a world championship, very few would begrudge Demetrius Andrade and Vanes Martirosyan their WBO Light Middleweight title bid tonight on an intriguing triple header (Donaire-Darchinyan preview can be found on home page).


The weigh-in almost boiled over yesterday as Andrade shoved Martirosyan after a heated stare down. With so much on the line this type of passion and tension is exactly what these fights are all about. And its not the first time that Martirosyan has traded words and shoves with his opponents, as himself and Erislandy Lara got personal in their weigh in last year.

Martirosyan is 33-0-1(21) and since beating Willie Lee(TKO 3) in December 2009 he has been waiting for this opportunity. Wins over Kassim Ouma(UD 10), Joe Greene(UD 10), Saul Roman(TKO 7) and a technical draw with Erislandy Lara did not bring him a shot he had been working towards with the WBC, but eventually with the WBO title being made vacant the Armenian fighting out of California gets his long awaited shot at a world title.



Made to miss: Lara nor Martirosyan took control in a scrappy fight

As for Andrade 19-0(13) this shot comes off the back of a long winded building job. The Rhode Island fighter has looked scintillating in dominating all 19 of his previous opponents including a 10 round shutout of Freddy Hernandez last time out.

Both have only 1 contest this year after their initial clash was postponed but these two youthful fighters should not have any problems with rust come Saturday night.

Vanes and Demetrius both stand above 6ft and a long range chess match will be expected, implementing the correct tactics will be vitally important. As the more experienced boxer the expectation would be for Martirosyan to take the fight to Andrade but I expect the slightly bigger Andrade to be on the front foot, controlling centre ring.

Martirosyan is awkward and can be unattractive to watch at times, but Andrade's patience has thus far been exceptional, waiting to pick the right shots, never rushing to find a stoppage even against the most unwilling of opponents on his way up the ladder.


Variety: Andrade's exhibits his punch output vs Hernandez(left)

There is the concern that Andrade could be hit by the same unknown reality as Daniel Jacobs was just a few years ago when he was favourite to win the WBO Middleweight title against the also unbeaten Dmitry Pirog. Jacobs was stunned in 5 rounds, but I don't believe that Andrade will suffer the same fate.

The pick is for Andrade to boss the opening rounds, before Martirosyan edges his way back into the contest, making Andrade miss and working hard to nick close rounds. That is when Andrade can show his versatility, making the correct adjustments, moving around the ring himself, giving Vanes little chance at counterpunching or winning rounds on activity. Any wild swings from Martirosyan will be punished as Andrade fires in quick counters and/or combinations before switching back behind his jab to close out the fight, taking a unanimous decision win.



Nonito Donaire vs Vic Darchinyan II: The 'Raging Bull' hunting for revenge

By Peter Wells (twitter- @boxingsaddler):



The pressure is on Donaire(right) to repeat against Darchinyan(left)

When in 2007 Nonito Donaire blitzed Vic Darchinyan in just 5 rounds their careers looked to be transcending along separate paths, yet here we are 6 years later and two old rivals meet again under more critical circumstances. So will the rematch follow the same pattern as the first encounter or will Darchinyan back up his own boasts, "I made him. I'm going to break him."

Donaire 31-2(20) and fighting out of the Philippines has grown a fan base over the years, expected by many to be the predecessor of Manny Pacquiao. But some of the adoration he garnered over the years was slightly lost after denouncing Guillermo Rigondeaux for many months as a fighter not in his league, only for the artistic Cuban to dominate Donaire for a clear points win. Afterwards Donaire said he did not take the fight as earnestly as he had previous contests, which for many is a sign of disrespect to a fighter many rank in the pound-for-pound top 10.



First time around it was curtains for Darchinyan

That embarrassing blemish aside Nonito has flown through the ranks in the lower weight classes, winning 5 titles in 3 divisions - this is not including the Interim title he won at Super Flyweight. And for a fighter with just 33 contests to his name, he boasts one very impressive resume, post Darchinyan the 'Filipino Flash' has beaten; Luis Maldonado(TKO 8), Moruti Mthalane(TKO 6), Raul Martinez(TKO 4), Hernan Marquez(TKO 8), Wladimir Sidorenko(KO 4), Omar Narvaez(UD 12), Toshiaki Nishioka(TKO 9) and Jorge Arce(KO 3) as well as many others.

Darchinyan 39-5-1(28) boasts an impressive record too including wins over Arce(RTD 11) and Maldonado(TKO 8) as well. Defeats to world class fighters Joseph Agbeko(UD 12), Abner Mares(SD 12), Anselmo Moreno(UD 12) and Shinsuke Yamanaka(UD 12) are accompanied by impressive wins against Yonnhy Perez(TD 5), Tomas Rojas(KO 2), Cristian Mijares(KO 9) and Irene Pacheco(TKO 11).

Yet for all his glory at the age of 37 and with 4 defeats since his first career reverse at the hands of Donaire the Armenian is not the force he was the first time these two encountered.

Donaire's trademark left hook and fast hands will cause problems once again for Darchinyan, although question marks surrounding Donaire's power since his move to Bantamweight and Super Bantamweight have not yet been vanquished despite his last two wins coming by way of knockout. That is due to the fact that Nishioka's tactics never looked like they entailed winning the fight and Arce was a shadow of his old self, and his machismo and bravery got the better of him in the 3rd round of their contest.



Bouncing back: Donaire lost last time out to Rigondeaux

Darchinyan's awkward style made no effect on Donaire last time out but he can take comfort from the way in which Rigondeaux brought out the cautious side in Donaire. But it's unlikely that Nonito will be quite as gun-shy against a foe he knows all about.

Expect Donaire to be hot on the heels of Darchinyan from the beginning of the contest, conserving the left hand for when Darchinyan throws an overhand right. With the longer reach Donaire will feel comfortable at range but with a point to prove its unlikely he'll become too contented like he did against Narvaez in their drab affair. While Darchinyan will struggle he may find a few decent openings but its unlikely his frame will carry the same power at Super Bantamweight as it did in the lower divisions - since knocking out Tomas Rojas at Super Flyweight in 2009 he has only one stoppage win.

The pick is for Darchinyan's corner or the referee to pull the former IBF, WBA & WBC Super Flyweight world champion out somewhere around the 9th round with Donaire a long way ahead on the scorecards in an entertaining but one-sided fight.

I'll finish by wishing Magomed Abdusalomov who is currently in a medically induced coma after his loss to Mike Perez in a thoroughly entertaining Heavyweight fight a full and speedy recovery. Abdusalomov is 18-1(18) and I ask you to keep this warrior of the ring and his family including his wife and three children in your thoughts and prayers.

Heavyweight inferno in Hull: Lucas Browne vs Richard Towers Preview

By Peter Wells (twitter- @boxingsaddler):


Richard Towers (Right) & Lucas Browne (Left) are friends outside the ring

‘Big Daddy’ is back in the UK, this time the opposition is a whole lot tougher and the Australian who has grown a big reputation in a short space of time is ready to kick on. Lucas Browne 17-0(15) is 34 years of age but in a struggling Heavyweight era where useful challengers have been hard to come by for the domineering Klitschko’s then age has become little more than a number, not a barrier.

Coincidentally his opponent is also 34 years old and also finds himself as a fighter on the way up rather than the other direction. Richard Towers 14-0(11) bears a stature that befits his name (not his birth name, Richard Hayles) but has been side-lined since June last year when he scored a career best win over his only notable opponent to date, Gregory Tony (W TKO 9), albeit the Frenchman had previously been halted by Robert Helenius and Mike Perez. The 6ft 8in Heavyweight from Sheffield will surely have concerns returning to the ring after so long out against a boxer who on paper is his best opponent to date.

Browne however does not possess the same build that seems to best suit Heavyweight fighters of this era. At 6ft 4in the hard-hitting Aussie has learnt plenty sharing the ring with Travis Walker (W RTD 7) and James Toney (W UD 12). Walker hit the canvas 3 times, but only after Browne had received a count himself in the opening session.

While Towers has the height and reach, in his contest with Tony he struggled to implement it, and was dragged into a tough battle. Controversy struck in round 5 when Tony had Towers reeling and it looked as if the referee would have to intervene. Understandably fans of Tony were adamant the fight should be been waved off but thankfully for Towers who was using the ropes to hold himself up for much of the round, he was allowed to continue before eventually stopping the tough Frenchman in an unnecessary war. If Towers is found in a similar situation against a puncher like Browne, then it could well be lights out.

To win this contest Towers must stick on the outside and make Browne fall short before punishing the shorter man. His stamina proved key when he fought Tony, and even though he has been out of the ring for so long, it shouldn’t affect him in a sever way. He has already been through one training camp before the initial fight with Browne was called off when Towers was refused a visa to fight in Australia.



Luke Campbell continues his journey in the pro ranks

Towers’ big weapon is the right hand and considering Walker was able to floor the Aussie fighter in the opener with a straight right, it looks likely that the Englishman can use that punch when Browne tries to pry his way inside. For a Heavyweight Browne can be light on his feet and his hand speed will also be a factor. Browne can hit with both hands and once in close is a dangerous foe.

It’s hard not to see excitement transcending throughout this fight, and it is unlikely we’ll hear the final bell. Browne will stick to the outside early, looking to zip in the odd jab while working mostly to the body. Towers will want to keep his composure, lining Browne up for the straight right. I envision Towers dropping Browne once or even twice in the opening 5 rounds, but the tough Australian will bounce back and will begin to find it a lot easier to find the hometown favourite. As long as Browne doesn’t allow his work to become raged he can connect big before forcing either Towers’ corner or the referee to intervene between rounds 8-10, while behind on the scorecards.

On a packed card, Hull’s very own Tommy Coyle looks to bounce back from defeat at the hands of Derry Matthews when he steps into the ring with former British Featherweight champion John Simpson 25-9(11).

Coyle 16-2(6) has fought once since a devastating 10^th round stoppage defeat to Matthews when far ahead on the scorecards. That fight 4 rounder was contested at 150lbs, now the Lightweight will be coming down 15lbs to take on the naturally smaller man.

Simpson who is game has only one stoppage defeat, which was at the hands of Lee Selby and defeats have mostly come against current or former British champions. But despite his credentials this is a step too far for a career Featherweight/Super Featherweight.

Coyle can claim the IBF International title with a hard-fought but relatively comfortable points win.


Samire Mouneimne (left) & Josh Warrington (right)

In another title fight and clash of unbeaten fighters Samire Mouneimne 12-0-1(4) takes on Josh Warrington 15-0(0) for the vacant Commonwealth Featherweight title.

The hometown fighter Mouneimne has no real significant names on his record although he did survive an early knockdown to edge David Savage on points in a British title eliminator. As for Warrington he is a former English champion, and he became the first man to beat Chris Male before outpointing both James Speight and Ian Bailey – the latter lost to Mouneimne after 7 rounds last time out prior to Bailey facing Warrington.

There are no prizes for saying this one will go to the scorecards and the pick is for Warrington to take a close decision.

Also in action are Rendall Munroe, Curtis Woodhouse and Luke Campbell in front of what should be a great crowd at the Hull Arena. Sky Sports televise.

Triple G ready for Showtime: Gennady Golovkin vs Curtis Stevens Preview

By Peter Wells (Twitter- @boxingsaddler):

Golovkin(Left) & Stevens(Right) take time out from training
to face the camera's

It is not all too often that one can say boxing fans have been spoilt, but over the last several weeks like a child on Christmas Day, fans have been awestruck by the sheer bombardment of thrilling action.  So while many would not consider American Curtis Stevens 25-3(18) to be WBA Middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin’s biggest threat, you would be foolish to suggest this contest does not coincide with recent fights, this weekend is certainly not bucking the trend.

Golovkin, known as GGG, has lit up the Middleweight division with recent world class performances albeit against opposition you would expect any deserving world champion to beat. That is no disrespect to the likes of Matthew Macklin, Gabriel Rosado, Kassim Ouma and others who are all game contenders, but with high profile named fighters Peter Quillin, Sergio Martinez and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr hounding the Middleweight division then it is obvious there are more testing challenges waiting ahead for the man many consider the top dog in the historically imperious weight class.

In his 8^th defence of his WBA ‘world’ Middleweight title Golovkin 27-0(24) will be looking to add the unpredictable Stevens to his glossy scrapbook of knockout victims. Not since June 2008 has the Kazakhstan fighter heard the judges’ scorecards and he has never been beyond 10 rounds. Since winning the WBA strap with a 3^rd round KO of Nilson Julio Tapia in 2010, Golovkin has beaten Kassim Ouma (TKO 10), Lajuan Simon (KO 1), Makoto Fuchigami (TKO 3), Grzegorz Proksa (TKO 5), Gabriel Rosado (TKO 7), Nobuhiro Ishida (KO 3) and Matthew Macklin (KO 3). A splendid resume that has brought fans to their feet every time Triple G fights.

Golovkin may not be fluent with English but his crossover appeal has ensured he is a far bigger star in America than one of the USA’s own. Curtis Stevens, who fights out of Brownsville, New York, has made it clear that he is unmoved by the fear factor that Golovkin brings, and on Saturday night he will want to vanquish the Middleweight boogeyman while creating an aura of his own.

Stevens has just way too much power for Saul Roman

While Stevens’ 1 round demolition of Saul Roman was comprehensive and sent out waves across the 160lb division, it is hard not to pay attention to the 3 losses on Curtis’ resume. Early in his career he was stunned by an above average journeyman, Marcos Primera (L TKO 8) but bounced straight back with a conclusive points victory over his subjugator. Then in 2007 came his second loss, this time at the hands of an up-and-coming Andre Dirrell (L UD 10) before another comprehensive defeat by former ‘Contender’ star Jesse Brinkley (L UD 12). Prior to his third reverse he annihilated the unbeaten Piotr Wilczewski (TKO 3) and since has wins over decent fighters Elvin Ayala (KO 1) and Derrick Findley (UD 8) as well as Roman.

Stevens has shown signs of his potential but that erratic inconsistency has already cost him numerous times. Had the 28 year old American come in undefeated it would have been far easier to make a case for him to put a stop to Golovkin’s reign, but those defeats stand out like a sore thumb.

Stevens has a punchers chance but Golovkin has thus far taken the best his opponents can dish out, although fans of Stevens will point out that most of his challengers lacked the power that Stevens possesses. Then again it may also have been due to the fact that his recent opponents haven’t been afforded the chance to test the chin of Golovkin, being all too preoccupied by the shots raining in their way.

If Stevens can close the gap and force Golovkin to fight in close then if a scrappy contest ensues, the higher Stevens chances of an upset become. At range Golovkin is adept at landing sharp long punches that generate full power, closing the gap would take the stings out of Golovkin’s shots. But getting up close and personal with Golovkin is far easier said than done, and the feeling is Golovkin can make Stevens pay on the way in. This will force Stevens to stick to the outside, and while some will believe out boxing the Kazakh fighter is the only way to win, it has thus far proved fruitless. Stevens will offer a considerable challenge but unless he can seriously hurt Golovkin, the champion will cut the ring off, wearing Stevens down for a stoppage victory around the 8^th session.


The pick of the undercard action sees two unbeaten Heavyweights square off in a battle between boxer and puncher. The boxer Mike Perez 19-0(12) is still on the comeback trail after a year-and-a-half out of the ring. In his last contest in May he scored a one-sided points victory over Travis Walker. Prior to that he comprehensively won the International Prizefighter tournament scoring two first round stoppage victories on his way to the trophy.

Perez will be looking to propel his career on Saturday

The Cuban who has fought most of his professional career out of Ireland will be more than wary of his opponents’ power. Magomed Abdusalomov 18-0(18) has 11 victories in the first round alone and has only once been past round 4 and that was when he stopped Victor Bisbal in the 5^th. On paper the Russian who fights out of Florida has been fed a healthy diet of opponents above the grade of your average development level.

So while Abdusalomov’s upbringing in the professional game has been impressive question marks surrounding his stamina will likely be answered on Saturday. Perez cannot be too cautious, and will benefit from leading Abdusalomov on, forcing the 6ft 3in fighter to waste precious energy. Perez at just 6ft will struggle to impose himself early on but as the pace slows down the slicker Perez can outbox the Russian to win a close, maybe split decision.

Ola Afolabi will be hoping to bounce back from his most comprehensive defeat at the hands of his nemesis Marco Huck when he fights for the vacant IBO Cruiserweight crown. Lukasz Janik 26-1(14) is his opponent who will be facing his toughest test of his career.

Afolabi 19-3-4(9) can use his experience to dominate Janik over the 12 rounds, possibly forcing a stoppage late in the contest.