Last year we picked 10 prospects who were a little under the radar, here we review how their 2010 went.

Kubrat Pulev 10-0(5) – Since last year the talented Bulgarian has progressed well, having gone 6-0(3). Beating good opposition like Matt Skelton KO4, Domminick Guinn PTS8 & Paolo Vidoz PTS 8. Next scheduled to fight on 22 January against Yaroslav Zavorotnoyy. That shouldn’t be to much of a problem, but an interesting comparison could be drawn with Alexander Dimitrenko who vanquished Zavorotnoyy in 5 in 2010.

Ismayl Sillakh 14-0(12) – He signed with Roy Jones Jnr’s Square Ring Promotional company and got a prime spot underneath Jones-Hopkins 2 in April. He dually impressed splattering Daniel Judah in two. Judah hadn’t previously been stopped adding to the lustre. Unfortunately Square Ring’s lack of dates meant Sillakh was left on the shelf for 6 months. He finally reappeared in Bulgaria home of manager Ivalyo Gotsev winning a stay busy fight. He got back into action in America fighting Rayco Saunders and for the first time went ten rounds. Overall Sillakh was 5-0(4). Rumour is that he’ll face fellow unbeaten and another standout amateur Yordenis Despaigne of Cuba on ESPN in March in what will be a real 50-50 fight.

George Groves 11-0(9) – Had a big year, he very impressively won the Commonwealth title in April stopping tough Ghananian Charles Adamu, he closed the year stopping hard nosed Scot, Kenny Anderson in six, though he tasted the canvas for the first time himself. He also made his American debut in July when he appeared on the Marquez-Diaz 2 card. He was 4-0(4) in 2010. He’s the mandatory challenger to James Degale for the British title, in truth that is one avenue he’d probably be wise to avoid for the moment if only to let the fight marinate and become even bigger. It’s one of the most anticipated fights in Britain and would be worth a fortune to both in a few fights time.

Yudel Jhonson 9-0(6) – The Cuban didn’t break out the way he had hoped in 2010. He had a fairly busy year 5-0(4), but against limited opposition, stopping three of them in the first. At 29, with his skill and background he’ll hope he can do similar things to several of his former National team mates and fight a higher level of opposition. The next year will be a big one for Jhonson, if he’s to make a name for himself he needs to make in roads in 2011.

Keith Thurman 15-0(14) – He wasn’t as active as he had hoped fighting only three times winning all three inside the distance. The opposition was a little better but they still had no answer to his power. Outside the ring Shelly Finkel who had managed him decided to part ways with Boxing for the most part so now Thurman is being looked after by Al Haymon. He’s also back training with Dan Birmingham who used to work with him in the infancy of his career. We should know more about where Thurman’s career will take him over the next twelve months, I would expect promoter Golden Boy to ramp up the opposition and match him with a few tough journeyman who will take Thurman rounds and enable us to see if there is more to Thurman than just power punching.

Ruslan Provodnikov 17-0(11) – He fought three times in 2010, continuing his progress. Two of the fights took place in America, the first was against former world champion Javier Jauregi back in February, after a muted fight with Bredis Prescott didn’t come to pass. No matter he dutifually stopped the old warrior in 8. In May he impressively dropped Emmanuel Augustus three times before getting the ninth round TKO. Disappointingly he didn’t maintain the same pace in the second half of the year fighting only once in his hometown in Russia. He gets back to action on ESPN2 against once beaten Mauricio Herrera for the vacant USBA 140 title. Hopefully he can get a fight with someone like Juan Urango or Julio Diaz giving him the chance to break into the top 10.

Archie Ray Marquez 11-0(8) – Not the year Marquez was hoping for as he was beset by problems outside the ring. He did remain unbeatean, going 8 rounds for the first time. Whether last year was a blip or not and if he can get back to action regular in 2011 remains to be seen. Nothing scheduled at the moment though his promoter Gary Shaw hopes to get him in the ring 5 times in the new year.

Kazuto Ioka 6-0(4) – Moved much faster than anyone else on this list, so much so that last year he’d only been a pro for 8 months when he made this list. Ioka is still only 21, but with a wealth of experience from his amateur days, he’s still only had six fights, all wins with four stoppages. His next fight is for the WBC Strawweight title against Oleydong Sithsamerchai who’s 34-0-1(12). It takes place in Ioka’s homeland of Japan and Sithsamerchai has looked a vunerable over the last year, it’s still a tough ask of Ioka however.

Luis Alberto Rios 11-1-1(6)- He came into 2010, with 11 consecuative wins and at only 19 years old word out of Panama was that he had a very bright future. He didn’t have a good year though first drawing with Carlos Melo before being upset in April by Luis Carrillo. Though he did have a shoulder injury, he hasn’t been seen or heard from since so it remains to be seen if he can bounce back. He’s still young so it can lightly be done.

Carlos Buitrago 17-0(12) – Has only just turned 19 years old, has continued his development in Nicaragua. He won something called the WBA Fedecentro title, though it’s only a junior trinket it’s sure to of given the youngster confidence from which to build. It has been mentioned by some that they think “Cochorroncito” may be better than fellow gym mate Roman Gonzalez. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Prodesa his backers take him to Japan or Mexico to fight like they have with Gonzalez, all of which would be great experience for the youngster. I expect him to be fighting on the fringes of the world scene by the end of the year.

This years 10 under the radar to look out for are.

Rakhim Chakhkiev 8-0(6) – Had a strong amateur resume in which culminated with gold at the 2008 Olympics, the previous year he won silver at the World Championships. He was a Heavyweight in the amateur’s but doesn’t believe he has the size to fight there as a pro and is campaigning at Cruiserweights in the paid ranks. He turned over in October 2009 and has progressed quickly winning all 8 in total, going 5-0(3) 2010. He’s alligned with Universum and trained by Michael Timm. Turns 28 in mid January and with his amateur credentials he should progress well in the new year.

Lateef Kayode 15-0(14) – The former Nigerian soldier has progressed well since relocating to L.A to work at the Wild Card gym under the expert tutelage of Freddie Roach, he’s managed by Steven Feder and recently signed with Gary Shaw’s promotional company who will get him regular TV exposure in the coming year. It’s a big year for Kayode, he needs to move from prospect to contender. Could fight next on 4 February.

Dominic Wade 9-0(7) – The Heavy handed Maryland prospect is still only 20 years old. In the later part of 2010 he moved upto 6 rounds though it made little difference as experienced Troy Lowry 27-9 was brushed aside easily inside a round. Nicknamed “The Blade” he’s still working his way out whether he’ll fight at Middleweight or Super Middleweight. Looked after by Prizefighter and trained & managed by Barry Hunter who also looks after both Lamont & Anthony Peterson. He won 4 consecuative Silver gloves championships in the amateurs, becoming only the second fighter to ever achieve this after Oscar De La Hoya.

Bastie Samir 7-0(7) – Sprang to prominence with a strong showing at the 2007 Worlds and then the 2008 Olympics where he fought for his country Ghana up at Light Heavyweight. In one of his matches he hit one of his opponents so hard he broke his headgear off. When he turned pro under the expert guidance of Cameron Dunkin he dropped down to Middleweight where his power is even more effective. Initially he fought and quickly moved to 3-0 before he went back to Ghana and had problems getting back into America. After 18months his team managed to sort the problems and brought him back to Las Vegas where he now trains with veteran Kenny Adams who will teach him he subtle nuances of the game. Expect him to be busy in 2011 fighting on Golden Boy shows.

Jonathan Gonzalez 11-0(11) – Has kept out of the limelight despite a perfect 11-0(11) record. Fought at the 2008 Olympics for Puerto Rico, without medalling. He’s already fighting 8 rounders, so far going only 6 due to his power. Nicknamed “Mantequilla” he’s still only 21, and fights at Welterweight, though recently been as high as 155 so perhaps may settle at Light Middleweight. Promoted by Gary Shaw who will hope Gonzalez can follow countryman Felix Trinidad or Miguel Cotto who have in recent years made a big impression at 147 & 154.

Sergei Rabchanka 15-0(11) – The Belarrusian broke through this year, he started the year as a faceless guy with a good record but finished it with an impressive win over Roman Dzuman KO6. He’s looked after by serial European stalwart manager/agent Philippe Fondu who believes the Light Middleweight to be the most gifted guy he’s worked with. He may appear in Britain as he is promoted by Ricky Hatton’s promotional company, hopefully he will be back in action in the first quarter of 2011.

Michael Finney 6-0(6) – Another youngster, only recently turned 19 who originally hails from Smith Station, Alabama but now lives in Pahrump, near Las Vegas where he like Samir works with Cameron Dunkin and trains with Kenny Adams and fights under the Golden Boy banner. He fights are the early 140’s so will likely develop into a Welterweight as he continue’s. Reminds me of a young Kelly Pavlik, in that he’s tall and powerful. Will be kept busy in 2011 while he develops his game.

Randy Caballero 6-0(4) – Of Nicaraguan decent but born and bread in Southern Californian hotbed of Coachella where he was one of America’s best young amateur’s winning 9 National titles going 167-10 in total. He opted to turn professional and also signed with talent spotter extrordinaire Cameron Dunkin who signed him with Golden Boy. Competes at Super Bantamweight and seems to have a very bright future. Next in action on 14 January in Indio near his hometown.

Alexei Collardo 13-0(13) – The young Cuban Super Bantamweight moved to Ireland along with Luis Garcia & Mike Perez but appears the better of the 3. Has a strong amateur pedigree winning the Flyweight title in 2006 World Junior title. So far despite several attempts to get him rounds he has stepped up and stopped everybody including former world champion Felix Machado KO5 & world title challenger Cristian Faccio KO4. It’ll be interesting to see what his next move is whether his people are able to back him further and bring other big names to Ireland and possibly make Collardo a champion. Seems to be talented enough and still on 22. What happens when his opponent comes to win and hits back remains to be seen.

Carlos Cuadras 18-0(16) – Is seen by some as one of Mexico’s potential stars of the future. He opperates at Super Flyweight where over the next 12 months he should be able to make a push for a world title. Not known by many because to date he hasn’t fought in America, so far all but 3 of his fights have taken place in Mexico. He is alligned with Japanese Promoter Teikken so has fought there on those three occassions. International competion will allow “The Prince” to gain vital experience on the road. The 22 year old had a solid amateur career winning the 2007 Pan-Am Games at Bantamweight then competing in the World Championship later that year. I expect him to continue to develop and crack the top ten in the next year.

Thoughts and observations – Deepest sympathy’s to the family of Bennie Briscoe one of the Best fighters to never win a world title he passed away on Tuesday aged 67…Super Middleweight prospect Edwin Rodriguez looked impressive back in November scoring his career best win stopping son of a legend James McGirt in nine. He got himself in terrific shape sparring with the likes of Carl Froch, Jean Pascal & Daniel Geale. That bodes well for him for the future. He’ll be back on 14 January on ESPN against another son of a legend Aaron Pryor Jr 15-2(11) If he keeps this up he’ll be swapping his nickname from “LA Bomba” to “The Legend Killer”…The 175 unification between Jurgen Braehmer & Beibut Shumenov has kind of gone under the radar, that should be a pretty entertaining fight.

Last September Kaizer Mabuza left his homeland South Africa and headed to the Ukraine to fight then unbeaten Serhiy Fedchenko. He proved his mettle and won a majority decision, that propelled him in a fight back in February, once again he was on the road this time he made his American debut where he met former WBO 140 champion Kendall Holt. Holt was widely expected to win and win well. It didn’t come to bare as Mabuza now 23-6-3(14) posted his most impressive result so far forcing Holt to retire at the end of the sixth round. Since then Mabuza 30, has remained on the shelf largely due to politics. His next fight though without a venue or date will almost certainly be against Zab Judah for the vacant IBF Light Welterweight title. Here’s what Mabuza had to say.

Hello Kaizer, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – It took for you to come to America to really open people’s eyes of how good you are when you beat Kendall Holt in February. What are your thoughts on that fight looking back?

Kaizer Mabuza – It is amazing how life can go different ways and change your fortunes. Somehow, I been underestimated even in my own country, where I was just one of the national champions. Prior of Holt fight, I took very short notice as replacement fight in Ukraine against unbeaten IBF I/C Champion Sergey Fedchenko. It was so short notice, that we just managed to arrive in Ukraine hour prior of the weigh in. Mr. Branco (my promoter) told me I have nothing to lose, but only gain. Not that in the case of winning I will only get a belt, but IBF Rating as well, which will secure me better fights and better money. Mr. Branco was very much right. After I have beaten Fedchenko I got offered fight against Holt. Holt was former WBO world Champion, and nobody give me a chance, even home in South Africa. Reporters were very negative, making comments that my promoter doesn’t care what will happen to me. Well, I just showed to all of them how wrong they were by stopping Holt.

Anson Wainwright – How come you haven’t been in action since? Do you have anything in the works?

Kaizer Mabuza – I couldn’t fight as IBF have appointed several guy’s from the rating to fight me for mandatory position – but all of them turned fight down, including Matthysse and Kotelnik. Once you are appointed for the mandatory eliminator, you can not take other fights, as you will lose your status.

Anson Wainwright – You will fight Zab Judah/Lucas Matthysse for the Vacant IBF title next year what did you think of Judah/Matthysse in that fight?

Kaizer Mabuza – I honestly thought Matthysse would win! I was surprised when I saw internet results and comments on the fight.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your team. Who is your manager, trainer & promoter? Also what gym do you train out of?

Kaizer Mabuza – My manager / trainer is Manny Fernandez and promoter Branco Milenkovic. I know that Branco who already have 4 IBF World Champions is looking for “number 5”, and I will not let him down! The gym name is “BRD Boxing Academy”.

Anson Wainwright – How did you first become interested in Boxing?

Kaizer Mabuza – Soccer and boxing are two most popular sports among the youth in my country – I opted for boxing.

Anson Wainwright – When your not training or fighting what do you like to do? What are your hobbies/Interests?

Kaizer Mabuza – Just relaxing with music and movies.

Anson Wainwright – Although it’s a different sport back in the summer the Soccer World Cup took place in your country. What impact did that have on you and your country?

Kaizer Mabuza – It has changed the perception of South Africa worldwide! It showed to the world, we can compete with the biggest countries on the world.

Anson Wainwright – Has the World Cup left a legacy in South Africa?

Kaizer Mabuza – With out doubt. Many people see us now differently and much more in the positive light.

Anson Wainwright – What do you think of the current Light Welterweight division? WBC Alexander, WBA Khan & WBO Bradley?

Kaizer Mabuza – Bradley had a problem with Holt, it wasn’t easy. I would rate Alexander as # 1 among the three.

Anson Wainwright – Who do you think will win the up coming fights between Amir Khan & Marcos Maidana? How about Tim Bradley & Devon Alexander?

Kaizer Mabuza – Maidana can cause upset, if Khan doesn’t change something, and I THINK Alexander will be “too much” for Bradley. But again, I was wrong about Judah vs. Matthysse…This is what make boxing interesting..It is very unpredictable.

Anson Wainwright – Who has been your toughest opponent and why?

Kaizer Mabuza – It was Isaac Hlatshwayo, the former IBF World Champion. He was in his prime and I took the fight too early. Today will be different story!

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for Zab Judah after there win before you fight?

Kaizer Mabuza – Whoever wins, they know who the man in waiting is, for Vacant IBF World Championship. I’m sure, after what I have done to Holt, they will not underestimate me!!

Thanks for your time Kaizer

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

Midweek Musings – Yesterday all three Kameda brothers were victorious in Japan; Koki won the vacant WBA 118 title outpointing former WBA 115 champion Alexander Munoz; Daiki barely squeezed past unheralded Silvio Olteanu retaining his WBA 112 crown & Tomaki stopped Pichitchai Twins Gym in three in Super Bantamweight action…Last Thursday also in Japan Mexican Hugo Cazares made the third defence of his WBA 115 crown. It was his third trip to Japan where he seems to be making a good living…Thought it was several days ago I’m still struggling to get remotely buzzed about Pacquiao-Mosley in May, several fights I am looking forward to in the opening few months of 2011 are Bradley-Alexander & Montiel-Donaire…Stay tuned for interviews with both halfs of “The Super Fight” Devon Alexander & Tim Bradley in the coming weeks.

If there are any fighters you would like to hear from you can contact me on elraincoat@live.co.uk

Several years ago Jhonny Gonzalez 47-7(41) won the WBO Bantamweight title he defeated Marc Johnson & Fernando Montiel and the future appeared rosey. He stepped up to 122 and fought Isreal Vazquez for the WBC crown in the main event on the Mexican Independance in 2006 and was performing incredibly well, ahead on points and having dropped Vazquez. However the fight took a drastic U-turn in the tenth when Vazquez stormed back and pulled victory from the jaws of defeat. That lead to Gonzalez now 29, returning to Bantamweight after one more successful defense he lost to Gerry Penalosa who stopped him in the seventh with a debilitating liver shot. He did what his body had told him for awhile and moved up in weight, after 6 wins he once again fought for the WBC title this time against Japan’s Toshiaki Nishioka, despite a good start in which he dropped the champion Gonzalez was stopped in the third. Gonzalez has since moved up to Featherweight and is on a seven fight winning streak with all of them by knock out, proving he maintains his power even at 126. It is widely rumoured that Gonzalez will face Hozumi Hasegawa for the WBC Featherweight championship early in 2011. He is currently ranked WBC 1, WBA 2 & IBF 4.

Hello Jhonny, welcome 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – Just a few weeks back you beat Jackson Asiku, what can you tell us about that fight?

Jhonny Gonzalez – The fight of Jackson was an important fight for me as for all the Mexicans because it’s a very special date September 15 Is the Independence of Mexico.

Anson Wainwright – Though it’s early do you think you’ll be back in action? If so can you tell us when & against who it maybe?

Jhonny Gonzalez – I just fought against Santos Marimon. I am going to dispute the world championship of the WBC against the champion Hozumi Hasegawa of Japan there are plans that be in the month of February in Mexico.

Anson Wainwright – Who are members of team Gonzalez, who is your manager, trainer & Promoter? Also what gym do you train at?

Jhonny Gonzalez – My managers are Oswaldo and Reginaldo Kulche. My coach is Ignacio beristain, my brother Miguel Angel Gonzalez and Ulysses help too. My promoter is Promociones Del Pueblo & I train in the La Romanza, Mexico City.

Anson Wainwright – Your campaigning in the Featherweight division which has many talented fighters at the moment what are your thoughts on that? Are you targeting anyone in particular?

Jhonny Gonzalez – The division is very tough, there are Juanma Lopez, Yuriorkis Gamboa, Chris John, Elio Rojas,etc. I feel capable to face any of them in the 2011

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your early years growing up in Hidalgo? Were things tough growing up and how did you first become interested in Boxing?

Jhonny Gonzalez – There is an error, I am from Mexico City. My first fight was there and it appears on my record.

Anson Wainwright – You previously reigned as a Bantamweight World champion from 2005 to 2007. Looking back what are your thoughts on what it was like to be champion and what it meant to you?

Jhonny Gonzalez – My dream was achieved because every boxer dreams of that I was fortunate to achieve it and to be able to face tough fighters.

Anson Wainwright – Having fought down at 118 you quickly moved through 122 and now fight at 126 how do you find making weight now? What weight are you between fights?

Jhonny Gonzalez – Well I believe that my body needed me to rise from division because I struggled with those pounds, now in 126 I feel better I believe that this is my natural weight at this time.

Anson Wainwright – You have fought Israel Vazquez in 2006 on the Mexican Independence card it was a fantastic give and take war, you were ahead at the time of the stoppage. Looking back what do you think of that fight now? How good do you think Vazquez was?

Jhonny Gonzalez – It was a great experience for and in my career as a boxer, I was on the verge of winning a tough fight but he actually went on to win.

Anson Wainwright – When your not Boxing or training what do you like to do with your time to relax? Do you have any hobbies or interests?

Jhonny Gonzalez – I like to be with my family because when I have a fight I feel very tired and it’s very difficult to be able to be a lot of time with them. I have a business in Mexico City a rostiseria. I like the video play

Anson Wainwright – I remember reading that your father spelt your name wrong when he registered your birth can you tell us exactly what happened?

Jhonny Gonzalez – By an er. ror, but he never went to change it.

Anson Wainwright – What do you consider you best performance so far? Who do you think is the best fighter your have shared a ring with & why?

Jhonny Gonzalez – When I won my first world championship in Tucson Az. There have been various one’s Vazquez, Fernando Montiel and the but recent to Jackson Asiku.

Anson Wainwright – Do you have a message for the Featherweight division?

Jhonny Gonzalez – That the champions fight Jhonny Gonzalez to make it a better division over the next year. I want to achieve big things. Many tough Mexican’s they command a greeting to all the people that trust my profession.

Thanks for your time Jhonny.

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

Midweek Musings – Bernard Hopkins certainly looked to have done enough to beat Jean Pascal on Saturday. Pascal looked devoid of ideas and seemed to have no plan B. He couldn’t figure out the puzzle that is Bernard Hopkins. Hopefully we get the rematch, not sure Pascal is in any rush, seems like he may exercise the rematch clause with Chad Dawson…Canada wasn’t the only place where the home guy was given the benefit of the doubt seems like Luis Lazarte did against Ulises Solis in Argentina…Word out of Britain is Frank Warren has offered Amir Khan an undisclosed amount to face Kell Brook.

Through out the 1950 Cuba was undergoing their Revolution, in the early 1960’s they imposed an embargo that is still in operation today with America. Since those days they have developed the world’s top amateur Boxers, we only got to see them unfortunately every 4 years at the Olympics. The odd one got out and turned professional like Joel Casamayor who went on to become a 2 weight world champion, nothing else of note made an impact on the pro scene. That was until late in 2006 when it was revealed that three 2004 Olympic Gold medallist’s had defected whilst in a training camp in Venezuela. One of those was Heavyweight Odlanier Solis who’s quickly torn his way through sixteen opponents knocking out twelve of them. Tomorrow Solis 30, will take on Ray Austin 28-4-4(18) in Miami in a WBC title eliminator, the winner becoming Vitali Klitscko’s mandatory challenger, assured of a shot in 2011.

Hello Odlanier, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – You are fighting Ray Austin and the winner becomes Vitali Klitschko’s WBC mandatory. What are your thoughts on Austin and this fight?

Odlanier Solis – My thoughts are very simple: I will blow away Ray Austin and then go on, beat Vitali Klitschko and finally become the first ever Cuban heavyweight champion of the world. I have been waiting for a long time to get my hands on Klitschko who decide to run away and hide as long as he could. I thank the WBC and my promoter Ahmet Oener for giving me the chance to finally fight for the world title. I know that I have to beat Austin to get there so that’s what I’m gonna do on Friday in Miami.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your training for this fight? Where has it been, how has it gone & who have you sparred with?

Odlanier Solis – I had a good training camp in Miami. I sparred with a young German fighter named Erkan Teper who is very fast and moves well. I also had some more seasoned and experienced partners like Larry Donald. Unfortunately, he had to return home after a couple of days because I hit him too hard. But I give him props for coming to Miami to work with me. We had some other guys there as well. The camp was alright and I thank my coach Pedro Luis Diaz and all the other people around like Ahmet and Jose Perez who organized everything perfectly.

Anson Wainwright – Obviously you want to fight one of the Klitschko’s in 2011, what do you think of both of them?

Odlanier Solis – Honestly, I don’t care about them. I don’t care about any of my opponents. I know that I am the best heavyweight fighter in the world today and I also know that I only have to focus on myself and what I do in the ring. When I step into the ring and fight my own fight it doesn’t matter who stands in the opposite corner. I’ll simply run over every opponent who faces me.

Anson Wainwright – Could you tell us about team Solis, who is your trainer, manager & promoter? Also what gym do you train at most of the time?

Odlanier Solis – As I said before, my trainer is Pedro Luis Diaz. He is a very experienced coach and I have known him for a long time. He was our national team coach back home in Cuba. In the last years he also made himself a name at the pros and I cannot imagine a better trainer. He organizes everything for me and I thank him for all the hard work and effort. Ahmet Oener is my promoter since I started my professional career. He brought me to where I am right now. Before I even signed with him he told me that I would become undisputed heavyweight champion of the world. We’re both on the same page on that and we are ready to go all the way together. Then there is Jose Perez who is taking care of a lot of things for me. He is working closely with Ahmet. Those are the most important people around me right now. I live and train in Miami.

Anson Wainwright – What was it like growing up in Havana as a kid and how did you first get involved in Boxing?

Odlanier Solis – I started boxing when I was quite young. We didn’t have many different choices in Cuba. If you wanted to mean something and be somebody you had to get involved in sports. When I first entered a boxing gym the coaches immediately told me that this is what I was born to do. They saw something special and made me work hard to exploit my talent in the best possible way. So I got hooked to it.

Anson Wainwright – You had a fantastic amateur career, you won gold in the 2004 Olympics and won the World Championships three times. Can you tell us about some of your other amateur credentials? What current pro’s did you fight and how did you do? Also what was your record?

Odlanier Solis – It would be far easier if you asked me who I didn’t beat… I basically won every title there was to win and never lost an important tournament. I am a seven-time Cuban national champion, three-time Pan-American champion, winner of the World Cup and the Nation’s Cup, Junior World Champion… what else do you want to know? I beat guys like Sultan Ibragimov, Alexander Alexeev, David Haye… and whoever entered the ring with me.

Anson Wainwright – In the 2001 World Championship final you stopped current WBA champion David Haye. Can you tell us about that fight? did you drop him etc?

Odlanier Solis – Haye was a decent fighter. I remember that he connected with a nice uppercut early in the fight. He provoked me with that. But then I took control, did what I have to do and gave him the beating of his lifetime. The referee stepped in and prevented him from getting knocked out.

Anson Wainwright – You also beat Felix Savon two out of three. He is widely thought of as one of the Greatest Heavyweights to ever fight. Tell us about those fights? How good was he?

Odlanier Solis – Savon is a legend. Of course, it was a special thing for me to beat him. But then again he is just another name on the list. I know what I have to do in the ring. And I do it in the best possible ways. I am not afraid of big names and the respect I feel for a person will never stop me from beating up my opponent when we face in the ring. Once I step to the ropes I just do what I have to do. That’s all.

Anson Wainwright – What do you like to do away from Boxing? what are your hobbies & Interests?

Odlanier Solis – I hang around with my friends and family a lot. I am rather a calm guy. Oh, and I love fishing.

Anson Wainwright – I’m sure you’ve heard it said many times but some people have asked about your weight. Last time you fought at 268. Your only 6’1, what is your answer to that? Presumably you still feel in great condition?

Odlanier Solis – I don’t understand why people are worrying about my weight so much. To me the most important thing is how I feel and how I move in the ring. I am a heavyweight fighter so I don’t have to enter the ring at a certain limit. As long as I got the power to go twelve, fifteen or even thirty rounds I don’t care how much I’m carrying around. Just look at me fighting and tell me afterwards if I’m carrying too much weight and if I look to be in shape or not. My coach always says: At the amateurs my body looked better on photos but now I have more punching power. Amateur boxing and professional boxing are too different things. You need more power at the pros because every shot can be decisive. I trust in my team and in my ability and I believe that now I am bringing the full package: Speed, technique, stamina and power. Just watch me fight and ask that same question again after that fight.

Anson Wainwright – Several other Cuban Heavyweights have turned pro since you have including Mike Perez, Luis Ortiz, Yasnay Consuegra etc what are your thoughts on those guys?

Odlanier Solis – I don’t care about other fighters. When I meet them I chat with them but I don’t talk about boxing. It doesn’t matter to me. The guys you mentioned were looking up to me when I was the amateur champion. I fought Luis Ortiz a couple of times at the amateurs and beat him at will. The other two were still too young. I think I’m sort of an idol for them. I’m happy for them that they want to try their luck at the pros but they won’t have any chance to win a title – at least not as long as I am around…

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for your fans who are looking forward to seeing you in action against Ray Austin?

Odlanier Solis – Watch the fight, enjoy the show and support me on my way to finally ending the reign of the Klitschkos!

Thanks for your time “La Sombre”

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

Midweek Musings – Word is Pacquiao will now fight on 7 May and not as originally thought 16 April, he’ll be in with one of Berto, Mosley or Marquez…Top Rank has shows on 19 February (Montiel-Donaire) & 26 February, 12 March (Cotto-TBA), 19 March (Lopez-TBA) & now the Pacquiao card, also mentioned is a possible early June showdown between JuanMa & Gamboa if both win interim fights, that looks a pretty solid first half of the year for them…No such line up as yet from Golden Boy, I look forward to seeing them fill there dance cards in the coming weeks…On 18 February Fernando Guerrero will take on Saul Roman on ESPN in his hometown of Salisbury, Maryland where he’s fiercely popular…I’m looking forward to seeing Jean Pascal – Bernard Hopkins this weekend. There’s lots of intrigue in this fight, will youth prevail or will the old man once again spring the surprise? He couldn’t could he?…Over the past month we’ve had some cracking fights Marquez-Katsidis, Soto-Antillon & Khan-Maidana this weekend in Germany we could get our fourth in as many weeks with Marco Huck against Denis Lebedev, it pits two heavy handed Cruiserweights who don’t like to take a backward step, unless someone goes to sleep early it looks like a barnburner…Finally congratulations to World ranked Lightweight Brandon Rios, his wife gave birth on the 2 December to a little girl, Mia Guadalupe who weighed 6.1, he says he’ll be back at the Palms in Las Vegas on 26 February against one of the Miguel’s either Acosta for the WBA title or Vazquez for the IBF crown.

If there are any fighters you would like to hear from you can contact me on elraincoat@live.co.uk

The Super 6 has been plagued and beset by several injury’s, postponements and various other things. To Showtime’s credit they have always had an answer and managed to keep the general theme of the tournament going along. What they were hoping to achieve from the start was that one elite guy would prevail and introduce himself as a Superstar to the Mainstream possibly with crossover appeal. They are still on course for that and that star could be Andre “S.O.G” Ward. After impressively winning gold at the 2004 Olympics for America at Light Heavyweight he turned professional, initially at 160. He soon realized that wasn’t in his best interests and promptly moved up to Super Middleweight. Though he kept his unbeaten record he wasn’t particularly impressive and many believed he wouldn’t be as successful as he had in the amateurs. All this spurred Ward on, he quietly got on with his job progressing daily under the expert tutelage of trainer Virgil Hunter. Having beaten noted puncher Edison Miranda in May 2009, Ward had served notice of his intent to make a run for title glory. That chance came with the invention of Ken Hershman’s “Super 6” he was first matched with vastly more experienced Mikkel Kessler, also the pre-tournament favourite. He dually won a technical decision when the fight was stopped in the eleventh due to cuts whilst along way ahead. A Star was born that night in hometown of Oakland in Northern California since then he’s beaten both Allan Green & Sakio Bika barely losing a round. Next up is a Semi Final fight with German transplant Arthur Abraham. It remains to be seen if it will be his star that is still shining come the competion’s end next year but so far he’s certainly doing a fantastic job. Here’s what the loquacious Ward had to say.

Hello Andre, welcome to 15rounds.com

Thank you

Anson Wainwright – Firstly congratulations on your most recent win when you beat Sakio Bika. What are your thoughts on that fight and how happy were you with your performance?

Andre Ward – Well I wasn’t happy with it. But at the end of the day you want to go in there and perform. You always want to have the ideal setting, you want to look good. Everything be nice, neat and tight. But this isn’t a reality, it’s not a reality in life, it’s not a reality in Boxing. But that being said, now that I’ve had time to think about it. I’m pleased we won and we won ugly, we were able to find a way. I retained my belt and I move on in this tournament.

Anson Wainwright – You injured i believe your hand in the last fight and had a few cuts from headbutts from Bika, how are they healing up?

Andre Ward – Actually the injury happened prior to the fight, probably 2 weeks, 2 and a half weeks out. I had to take anti inflammatory. I just kept my eye on it. As I say we were 2, 2 and a half weeks from the fight so pulling out wasn’t an option. I just dealt with it. The individual who wrapped my hands Jacob Duran did a great job of making sure my hand was protected the night of the fight with the smaller gloves and everything. I had no problems the night of the fight but it is inflamed. I’m in the process of getting checked out. I’m getting an MRI. I should be doing that soon and get the results back shortly after. As far as the cuts, there fine. I think it looked worse on TV. The worst cut, was glued shut no stitches whatsoever and is healing just fine.

Anson Wainwright – Your next fight is against Arthur Abraham, what are your feelings on that fight? He hasn’t looked that impressive in his last two fights?

Andre Ward – I’ve only watched a few rounds of his fight with Carl Froch. Everybody pretty much knows the blue print on how to beat Arthur Abraham. He’s not real active, I don’t know if he’s afraid, getting tired. I don’t know. But he’s going to be the same Arthur Abraham. Having a game plan is one thing and executing it is another that’s what I have to do. I’m not taking Arthur light, he’s coming off a DQ which is disappointing. He’s coming off a loss when he could of won another title. He could of been a two division champion but he fell short so I know he’s disappointed. He’s after the WBA belt and my job is not to let him win this title. That’s all I’m focused on. His previous loses and how he looked that goes out the window because he has a fresh start and I have to make sure he stays in his place.

Anson Wainwright – Do you have a time frame for that fight?

Andre Ward – I haven’t really got a solid date. My promoter is waiting to see what happens with my hand. Hopefully in the next week we can lock something down.

Anson Wainwright – Could you tell us what the Super 6 has meant to you because it seems looking from outside that it has been magnificent for you really putting your name out there on the global stage?

Andre Ward – I think it’s been great, I mean Showtime has done an exceptional job with the tournament it’s self, dealing with adverse situations with injuries and so on an so forth as well as just the promotion of the Super 6, Fight camp 360, you name it. They’ve done a tremendous job and I take my hat of to them. Some people have had some negative things to say about the Super 6, we all want things neat and tidy in order all the time but things happen it’s a reality of life guys get hurt and pull out but there ability to bounce back and deal with this stuff and I’m talking about Showtime is incredible. As well as the promoters involved. Personally the further I get into the tournament, the deeper I go I’m appreciating the Super 6 more and more. From the stand point of the promotion people who don’t really watch Boxing have watched Fight camp 360 and that’s caused them to want to watch the fight and just to get the reaction from the fans and not even Boxing fans just regular people who come up and say I saw you on Fight camp with your family and I’m pulling for you. It means a lot. Obviously the winner of the Super 6 and I want that to be myself, this is going to catapult their career to another level. It’s been an awesome thing to a part of. There’s still work to be done, a lot of work to be done but thus far I’m very pleased with this.

Anson Wainwright – You’ve been with your trainer Virgil Hunter ever since you first became involved in Boxing. Could you tell us a little about the relationship you have?

Andre Ward – Virg is awesome, from a trainer stand point he’s very innovative, he thinks outside the box and he’s just got an innate ability to motivate, just through his hard work, his faith. He produces winners, he had several fighters that were winners before I came along and he’s done a great job you can’t argue with a guy who’s a gold medalist and world titlist. I’m pleased with Virg, he’s more than just a coach to me he’s my godfather and I’m just thankful to have a guy like that in my corner. Especially in this day in age when you know fighters and trainers they don’t necessarily mesh all the time. Sometimes there switching trainers every couple of years. For me to have a strong foundation like a Virgil Hunter is just an awesome thing. I know that it benefits my career all around.

Anson Wainwright – You won a Gold medal for America at the 2004 Olympics that must of been a tremendous honour, could you describe what it was like to achieve that goal?

Andre Ward – You know what winning a world title is awesome, tremendous thing to do to accomplish but it’s a business in the professional ranks. But representing your country on a stage like the Olympic games. Nothing will ever surpass that, it will always be in my life, in my heart. Everyone can relate to the Olympics, everyone may not relate or understand professional ranking and professional Boxing. The Olympic games is something that always gets people’s attention. Not only did I compete but I won the highest prize. I don’t think anything I accomplish as a pro with surpass that or be dear to my heart as that. I’m just thankful I had the opportunity, I’m thankful I have the opportunity to tell my kids and share that experience with them, it’s really surreal. In that category in Olympic style Boxing I’m in the record books with the likes of Cassius Clay and some other tremendous people, Hall of Famers in professional sports. I’m just thankful to be a part of it.

Anson Wainwright – In Late 2009 you beat Mikkel Kessler as an underdog, to win the WBA Super Middleweight title how did winning that fight compare to winning the Olympic gold medal?

Andre Ward – Like I just mentioned the Olympics is a special place for that but there’s also a place for winning my title. It’s one thing to be a gold medalist but you know how it is people will think I can’t do it as a professional. Can he adjust his style and win a world title. So to do it against a guy like Mikkel Kessler that meant the world to me. It’s one thing to win a vacant belt, it’s one thing to beat a guy who’s not supposed to be champion but to beat a seasoned guy who’s the real deal like Mikkel Kessler that just made me a better fighter. I know I belong at the top of the class of the 168 division and in the world.

Anson Wainwright – If you win your next fight with Abraham you will meet either Carl Froch or Glen Johnson in a unification fight. What goals do you have in Boxing?

Andre Ward – I want all the belts at 168 and I’m prepared to put in the work to go get it. It’s going to be a lot of work. There’s still a lot of work in the division but I’ve always wanted to be a multi division champion and after the Super 6 and possibly a Bute match, I’d love to go to Light Heavyweight and conquer some new things and win some titles at Light Heavyweight and even Heavyweight. I know it sounds crazy, I’m at Super Middle but I think at the right time, right scenario later in my career 31, 32 like a Roy Jones build yourself up, put 25 pounds of muscle on. I think it could be done but it would be a one time deal. There’s no way I could consider fighting at Heavyweight (Long term) that’s just not reality. But in the right situation later in my career my body can fill out and I’m able to put some extra muscle and end my career on that note.

Anson Wainwright – What weight do you walk around at between fights?

Andre Ward – I can’t tell you that! Ha-ha I can’t reveal. I don’t talk about my weight or what I walk around. I’m comfortable at this weight. I have no problem coming down to 168 at this point.

Anson Wainwright – Could you tell us about the rest of your amateur career, what other titles and honours did you win? What was your amateur record?

Andre Ward – My amateur record was 115-5, before I was an open Senior I won multiple National titles, Silver Gloves, Junior Olympics titles. Once I became an open senior, you turn 17 and you can basically fight anyone 17-35. That’s the real deal when you turn 17, when I became an open class fighter I won the US Championships in Colorado Springs and that was a big boost for me because I wasn’t seeded, I wasn’t a big name at the time as an amateur. I drew one top seed after another, night in and night out and I was able to overcome each night and looked up and I was in the finals on ESPN and I was able to win. That was like my first National Title. That gave me a lot of confidence to go on and progress and win another US men’s National Title. At the same time Virg and I were very strategic. We didn’t want to burn ourselves out over a three year span. There’s a lot of guys who had three, four hundred fights and it may work for them but we always felt like we want to be fresh for when the Olympic trials came around. That’s why I only had 120 fights in a ten year career. We were very strategic what tournaments we went to leading up to the Olympic trials and even after we won it was just imperative we didn’t burn ourselves out. We didn’t want to fight guys 3 or 4 times over that 3 year span, we were going to have to face in the trials. We wanted to beat them guys one time for all the marbles. That was our strategy and it worked out, if it didn’t people would of said we were crazy, but fortunately it worked out. We got it done at the Olympics.

Anson Wainwright – What do you like do with your time away from Boxing? What are you hobbies & Interests?

Andre Ward – I spend a lot of time with my family, right now I’m on a field trip with my son. These are things I love to do, spend time with my wife, 2 boys and my daughter. Just taking trips, traveling. My Church, the Christian community is important to me and my wife. We worship, we pray our god we serve, I have great family and friends there. I try to watch as many fights up close and personal as I can. I’m a football fan, I’m a Basketball fan. I always support the hometown teams. We have the 49er’s and the Raiders and I like both, that’s kind of an oxymoron. Technically I’m not supposed to do that! I like the Golden State Warriors they play in the arena I fight in when I’m home the Oracle Arena. I know several of the guys on the team. I support the San Francisco Giants & Oakland A. I’m a sports fanatic.

Anson Wainwright – The Bay area in Northern California is doing very well at the moment along side you there are Nonito Donaire & Robert Guerrero. What are your thoughts on the scene at the moment?

Andre Ward – Those guys are doing great. I take my hat off to them. Robert is a three time world champion and Nonito, the best is yet to come. He gets better and better. I’m just happy I’m able to pull my weight cos those guys are really good fighters. When all is said and done there going to be great fighters. I’m happy to be in there company. It’s kind of cool that the world can see the talent we have in Northern California. We will continue to do this because we all work hard and are humble men and family men that’s a big part of it.

Anson Wainwright – Who was your Boxing hero growing up?

Andre Ward – Roy Jones Jnr. He’s the guy I respected, I love to watch him even as a young man 9,10 years old I loved the way he was outside the ring and how he took care of business inside it. He was unorthodox, I appreciate there was something different about Roy. His career may be on the downside but he still has my support I love the guy. He’s one of my hero’s.

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for your fans out there?

Andre Ward – Continue to stay tuned. I don’t take my fans lightly, I want to continue to give you my all fight in and fight out.

Thanks for your time Andre, much appreciated.

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

Weekend Musings – Well so much for Amir Khan not having a chin, he proved that not only does he have a chin but he has a huge heart, he was running on empty from the tenth. It remains to be seen if that fight with bring him on further as a fighter or if that showed some of the frailties in his game. I mean Maidana though he’s a heavy handed guy and very tough, he’s not a top draw fighter. That’s what it’ll take to beat Khan though at this stage. Khan verses the winner of Bradley-Alexander would be great in the second half of 2011. As for Maidana I’m sure he’ll be given the chance to perform again after that Herculean effort…Not sure what to make of Victor Ortiz he had his fight with Lamont Peterson won in the third, he took his foot of the gas and didn’t seem to know what to do…Mmm there’s a surprise Joan Guzman missed weight again, what’s so frustrating is that he’s undoubtedly a very talented guy he just doesn’t have the discipline that he needs…Showtime’s Bantamweight tournament got of to a good start with Abner Mares winning a split decision over Vic Darchinyan who’s not the same bad ass at 118 as he was at 112 or 115 & Joseph Agbeko readjusted and won the rematch against Yonnhy Perez…Congrats to Cristian Mijares who won the IBF 115 title, he was one of Boxing’s best little men around 2007/2008 until he ran into Darchinyan and then lost twice to Nehomar Cermeno. After going 0-3 he won 4 and got a title shot and beat Juan Alberto Rosas in Torreon…In Britain, James Degale backed up his boasts looking sensational picking apart tough as the come Paul Smith. Full credit to Degale he’s come a long way since he debuted when he looked very amateurish still, now he looks the top prospect in Boxing for my money…There were also wins for Kell Brook, Nathan Cleverly, Tony Bellew & Matthew Macklin. Brook did as he pleased with over matched Philip Kotey stopping him in the second. Hopefully he steps up, he’s ready for it in 2011, it may be a way a way but a Khan-Brook clash would be brilliant scrap. Cleverly struggled with the late change of opponent and failed to impress but still got the job done over Nadjib Mohammedi. He’s looked like he was one of Britain’s top fighters over the past year and this will likely be a good learning curve. Bellew went life and death going down twice in the first two rounds against power punching Ovill McKenzie, after stopping McKenzie in 8, Bellew hinted he may look to move up in weight. In European Middleweight action, Macklin looked ordinary and had to dig deep to get it done against useful Ruben Varon. It seems Macklin needs a really big fight that will inspire him next.

If there are any fighters you would like to hear from you can contact me on elraincoat@live.co.uk

Turkey isn’t known for it’s Boxing, infact they’ve they’ve never produced a professional Boxing World champion. They have high hopes that Selcuk Aydin can become there first. So far he’s been impressive going 20-0(15). He comes with excellent amateur pedigree that saw him regularly medal in European competion, even competing for his country in the 2004 Olympics. However he lived up to his monicker of “Mini Tyson” when he was involved in an altercation with the referee of one of his fights in 2005, he was ultimately suspended for several years prompting him to punch for pay. After debuting in late 2006 he stayed busy in Europe, where he has had all but one of his fights to date. Aydin 27, is currently WBC Champion Andre Berto’s mandatory. He’s what the power punching Welterweight had to say.

Hello Selcuk, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – You have a fighting coming up on the 17 December in Miami, do you know who you’ll be fighting yet?

Selcuk Aydin – We have slightly changed the schedule. I will not fight on December 17th in Miami but on December 18th in Germany. Turkish TV covers my fights and for them it’s better if I fight in Europe because of the different time zones. I am training in Miami though and will certainly be back to fight here as well very soon but for the moment it makes more sense for me to fight in Europe. It’s only a stay-busy fight anyways. I don’t know who my opponent will be. But whoever it will be I will do my best to knock him out.

Anson Wainwright – Back in June you fought Ionut Dan Ion that was a very close fight that you won. What can you tell us about the fight & how happy you were with your performance?

Selcuk Aydin – I was not happy with my performance in that fight. I did what was necessary to win the bout but I wanted to show my fans in Istanbul a better performance. There were lots of things before that fight which didn’t go according to plans so I was not at one hundred percent the day of the fight. Because the fight was in Turkey I got distracted and lost focus. I wanted to knock my opponent out but I didn’t fight a good fight. It felt like I couldn’t pull the trigger that night although I did enough to win. After the fight I was criticized in the Turkish media and I apologized for a rather poor performance. Still I won a championship bout against a decent opponent. I gave ‘Jo-Jo Dan’ the chance to make himself a name through me. But I will be more than happy to take that away from him again. I have offered him a re-match and I promise in case we ever meet again inside the ring I will be better prepared and I will simply crush him.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your team, who is your manager, trainer & promoter? Also what gym do you train at?

Selcuk Aydin – To me the most important people in my corner are my brother Yalcin Aydin and Vedat Alyaz who is a personal friend and important part of my team. The presence of these two is important for me to feel comfortable. Ahmet Oener is my promoter and manager. I am with him since I signed my first professional contract and I thank him for bringing me to where I am. Ahmet is one of the best promoters in the world today. He is successful in Germany and the USA and basically the only promoter who is doing big shows in Turkey. I also have people supporting me in Turkey foremost Ibrahim Haciosmanoglu who is a very influential person and experienced manager. Currently I am living in Miami where I work with my trainer Ismael Salas. He is a great coach and I appreciate the chance to work with him.

Anson Wainwright – Your mandatory to Andre Berto what do you think of him as a fighter? What can you tell us about the situation with when you will get a WBC title shot?

Selcuk Aydin – As you said I am the mandatory opponent for Berto. I have waited for this chance for a long time. All my life I wanted to prove that I am the best. To do so you have to beat the best. That is why I want to fight Berto who holds a title which should belong to me by now. He is a good fighter but he is not good enough to beat me. He hasn’t fought anybody as tough as me in his career so far. I have watched a couple of his fights. He’s fast and has a good technique but he didn’t impress me with his performances lately. And I blame Berto for making me wait for this fight for one and a half years. He did all he could to avoid me and I will make him pay for that once we meet in the ring. I heard that the WBC will call for purse bid shortly and Ahmet told me that the fight will take place before March 31st. I will fight him anywhere anytime. And I will strip the belt from him.

Anson Wainwright – Many boxers have tough upbringings and that’s how they first get into Boxing, what was your youngers days like?

Selcuk Aydin – I could not say that I had a hard childhood home in Turkey. I have a great family who has always supported me and my father has always told me: If you want to do something you better do it right. I recall one time when I was very young and skipped training to hang out and play with some friends. When my father heard about that he said to me: Don’t tell me you want to become a boxer if you don’t want to go to training. If you are not willing to sacrifice you will not go anywhere. From that day on I went to the gym everyday. And that is what brought me to where I am.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us how you first got into Boxing in Trabzon, Turkey, your country isn’t known for pro Boxers?

Selcuk Aydin – When I was in the first grade I always passed a boxing club on my way to school. One day I told my father that I want to go and train there. He tried to convince me to join a football or basketball team instead. Those sports are far more popular in Turkey than boxing. But I felt that I am a fighter. I wanted to prove that I am the best. That is hard to do in a team sport. Fighting was always part of my nature. So I convinced him that I wanted to become a boxer and he took me to the gym and accompanied me and my brother every single day. There were some decent fighters at the gym. When I saw them I wanted to be like them. I worked hard, improved and became the best fighter in the gym. After that I saw the best Turkish amateurs and wanted to be like them. So I worked hard, improved and became the best fighter in Turkey. Now I look at the best boxers in the world and I am working hard to improve and become better than all of them.

Anson Wainwright – You had a good amateur career twice winning medals at the European Championships, what can you tell us about your amateur days? What pro fighters did you fight and what was your final record?

Selcuk Aydin – I have had close to 400 amateur fights and lost only about 20. And even when I lost to somebody I surely gave all of my opponents the hardest time in the ring. Not many of the guys I fought at the amateurs became good pros. Maybe a handful. I can’t give you names because I don’t care a lot about my opponents. I only care about myself and my performance. One name I recall is Frankie Gavin from the UK. He cost me my world amateur championship title. I have always been better than him but because of stupid politics he got a win over me he didn’t deserve. I was so fed up with amateur boxing that I turned professional immediately while he went on to become world champion. I should have won that title. I heard that he is pro now, too. I hope to meet him in the ring someday to get revenge for the amateur title he stole from me.

Anson Wainwright – The was a moment in your amateur career when you had an incident with a referee, what is your side on what happened?

Selcuk Aydin – There are rumors about me hitting referees which are simply untrue. I never hit a referee. I may have pushed one but that’s all. I cannot stand injustice. And in amateur boxing very often politics influence decisions and fight results. When I fought Frankie Gavin the way he ran away from me and only clinched when he should have been fighting just made me furious. I chased the guy through the ring and was clearly the aggressor in the fight. Still he led on points and I couldn’t understand that. I screamed at him that he should fight like a man and I unloaded my frustration but I didn’t hit a referee. I was suspended because of political reasons. The AIBA president at that time was from Turkey. His opponents wanted to get rid of him and they chose me as sort of sacrificial lamb. Because of the suspension I couldn’t go to the world championships so I decided to turn pro.

Anson Wainwright – What do you enjoy doing when your not Boxing? What are your hobbies and Interests?

Selcuk Aydin – The most important thing to me is my family and my friends back home in Trabzon. After my fights I love to go home and just enjoy myself. When I’m at training camp – in Germany, the USA or wherever – I keep in touch with them through the internet. I think it’s great that we live in a time where we have the chance to communicate with people from all over the world so easily.

Anson Wainwright – What fighters did you like growing up and what fighters do you enjoy watching today?

Selcuk Aydin – As I said before I always looked up to the people who were close to me. I didn’t want any so called ‘big fights’ back home in Turkey. I saw the guys in our gym and later the guys in the Turkish national team and did my best to get to and above their level. One fighter who I respect and looked up to for most of my amateur career was two-time Olympic gold medallist Mario Kindelan from Cuba. He is a special boxer.

Anson Wainwright – What did you think of Manny Pacquiao’s performance against Antonio Margarito? How do you see a fight going between him and Floyd Mayweather?

Selcuk Aydin – I respect Pacquiao for his performances and the way he dominates his opponents. He is not the technically best boxer I have ever seen but he is very focused, very disciplined, hard working and a true fighter. He takes the fight to his opponents which is why he dominates them and wins. You have to give him props for how determined he is and for his professional attitude. I don’t know how a fight between him and Mayweather would end but I don’t care about the whole discussion either. Mayweather doesn’t seem to be interested in fighting Pacquaio because he’s afraid of losing. I would fight Pacquaio immediately if I got the chance but I know that I have to prove myself against top opponents before I can even think about a big fight like that. That’s why I want to take on Andre Berto first. By the way, I honestly think Berto shouldn’t call out Pacquiao before he has fought any notable opponent. I know that I am not considered a big name in the USA. But I would certainly give Berto a hell of a fight. An if he wants a shot at Pacquiao he should fight and beat me first. On the other hand, when I beat him and one or two other big names in the USA I might be ready to take on Pacquiao myself. I could not say how a fight between me and him would end. I know that even Selcuk Aydin is capable of losing a fight – as is Manny Pacquiao. The one thing that I can promise is that I would not surrender to anybody, I will accept every fight and give every opponent the fight of their lifetimes.

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for your fans?

Selcuk Aydin – All you boxing fans out there, watch out for Selcuk Aydin. 2011 will be my year. I lost some focus last year because I didn’t get the big fight I wanted. Now I remember how my father told me if I want to do something I should do it right. I am ready and willing to sacrifice and I will show the world what Selcuk Aydin is all about. I also want to thank all my friends and fans back home in Turkey as well as in Germany where I have always been welcomed very warmly and treated nicely by everybody. I will beat Berto, bring his green and gold world championship belt home to Turkey and dedicated it to all the people who supported me over the years.

Thanks for your time and good luck with your upcoming fight.

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

Midweek thoughts- Seems like the Top Rank show in Anaheim “In Harm’s Way” went down a storm. Nonito Donaire was stunning demolishing teek tough Wladimir Sidorenko. Soto-Antillon went to war with each other, hopefully Brandon Rios gets in on the act, any combination of those guys is can’t miss…Just thinking wouldn’t it be fun to see those three fight Robert Guerrero & Michael Katsidis. Those are the sorts of fights that would bring a load of interest to the Lightweight division and be great on Showtime or HBO After Dark. Just another reason to want to see Top Rank & Golden Boy end there feud…Ricky Burns defended his title successfully, he later admitted he felt something was missing. Sometimes you have to live by the old adage “Win and look good next time”…I like Amir Khan to win and win in a big way Saturday, can’t help wondering what happens if Maidana lands a bomb though… Word is WBO World Champion Juergen Braehmer and WBA Beibut Shumenov will meet in a Light Heavyweight World Championship Unification showdown January 8, 2011 at the Ice Mansion in Shymkent, Kazakhstan.

In just over a week’s time Jean Pascal 26-1(16) takes part in a battle of ages against Cerebral Assassin Bernard Hopkins. Pascal’s WBC Light Heavyweight title will be on the line in what will be his fourth defense of the title he won in June of 09′ against Adrian Diaconu. It will be the last significant bout of the year, it pits Pascal 28, speed & skills against Hopkins stealth & cunning. Just weeks after the bout Hopkins turns 46 and will be older than George Foreman was when he Ko’d Michael Moorer back in 1994 for the Heavyweight title. For his part Pascal remains calm and intent on beating Hopkins and making a statement doing so. He’ll have the backing of several thousand fans in his hometown of Quebec City on the night. It’s sure to be an interesting fight, here’s what he had to say.

Hello Jean, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – Firstly you have a huge fight coming up when you defend your WBC Light Heavyweight title against Bernard Hopkins. What are your thoughts on this fight?

Jean Pascal – Bernard Hopkins is one of the biggest names in the sport today. His name is synonymous with excellence. I am extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to fight against such a great – well-known boxer.

Anson Wainwright – What are your thoughts on Hopkins as a fighter?

Jean Pascal – Hopkins has a great record to uphold. He has beaten most of the great names past and present, over the last twenty years. You have to respect a record like Hopkins’.

Anson Wainwright – He’s a master of mind games and isn’t afraid to do something to ruffle feathers, for instance when he went to Puerto Rico and threw their National flag on the floor before his fight with Felix Trinidad. Do you think he may try something fight week with you?

Jean Pascal – I am aware that Hopkins likes to engage in mind games. Inconsistent behaviors tend to throw some boxers for a loop. IN that regard, Hopkins has been a teacher and an educator to many great names in the sport. I already am aware that his focus is on playing mental games, both directly, and also indirectly through others. There is nothing much I can do to account for someone else’s games.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about Team Pascal, who is your manager, trainer & promoter?

Jean Pascal – I have worked with Yvon Michel as my promoter since I began in the sport. I interviewed with several potential promoters but chose Yvon Michel and his company GYM because I knew him and have trusted him. Yvon worked with several other well-known boxers residing in Canada before me and did a great job with and also for each of them. He has done the same for me.

Anson Wainwright – You were born in Haiti nearly a year ago now they had that terrible disaster, what can you tell us about that and how it effected you?

Jean Pascal – That was a terrible tragedy that left the country in a real mess and killed a lot people. Even though nobody died in my family I was very scared for first 72 hours because I had no news from anyone. I send my prayers to everyone who looses they’re loves one.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us what it was like in Haiti as a kid growing up and how the move to Canada came about and how that changed your life?

Jean Pascal – Its hard to tell you because I did not grow up in Haiti. I came to Canada at 4 years old and have lived in Quebec ever since. At a more general level, I was sad to follow the footage about Haiti though also amazed about the resilience of the people, and also their generosity to one another while under stress.

Anson Wainwright – You got in to Boxing because of your elder brother when you were 13 years old, can you tell us about those early days and how it came about?

Jean Pascal – I am a former hockey player – though I realized at a certain point that I was quite small physically for that sport. One day I decided to follow in the foot steps of my older brother Nicholson who was the Golden Gloves Champion in 1996. I just wanted to be like my brother, so I began to box. Before long I discovered my talents as a boxer and just wanted to see where my gifts might bring me. I have experienced quite a journey to this point, but that journey is only beginning.

Anson Wainwright – You had a standout amateur career in which you fought in the Olympics & World Championships. Can you tell us what tournaments you won & how you did the major tournaments you fought in? What current pro’s did you fight & how did they go? Also what was your final record?

Jean Pascal – I am a 7 time Canadian Amateur Champion a Francophone Games Gold medalist, a Commonwealth Games Gold medalist, a Pan-American Games Bronze medalist, I finished 5th in 2001 at the World Amateur Championships, and I represent Canada at the 2004 Olympic Games. These were a few of the highlights from my amateur career. Though I will say that I am far more cut out for professional boxing than I was for amateur boxing.

I fought: Paul Smith (UK)….Alfredo Angulo (Mex)… Craig McEwan (sco)… Yordanis Despaigne(cub)….and a lot of other good amateur boxers I don’t even recall. The thing about amateur boxing is that you get exposure to lots of different style, tactics, antics, and boxing strategies. That exposure makes for a versatile boxer assuming the boxer is open-minded and aware of what can be learned. I found that the exposure to those great athletes opened my eyes to the possible types of opponents I now encounter at the top of the game.

Anson Wainwright – What do you like to do when your not Boxing? What are your favourite past times and Hobbies.

Jean Pascal – I enjoy looking movies at home with my daughter Angel and I also have several long-term friends I have been close to since childhood. I continue to hang out with those friends. Finally, I like to study boxing and discuss what I study with my working team.

Anson Wainwright – What are your thoughts on the rest of your division including the other champions WBA Beibut Shumenov IBF Tavoris Cloud & WBO Jurgen Braehmer?

Jean Pascal – MY focus right now is Bernard Hopkins. I do not believe in thinking beyond one fight to the next. After this fight I will work closely with my working team and we will see what options work best for me as a boxer and a business man.

Anson Wainwright – You were in Nottingham in 2009 for the start of the Super Six to watch & support former opponent Carl Froch. What are your thoughts on the tournament?

Jean Pascal – The tournament is fantastic and it reflects an investment on the part of ShowTime to bring to the viewers some of the most interesting fights out there today around the Super Middleweight division. It seems that they have had a few bumps along the way, but on the other hand, they continue to bring great bouts forward. I have watched the bouts with interest given the quality of opposition.

Anson Wainwright – There will be a big crowd in Quebec supporting you on the 18 December what message do you have for those fans ahead of the fight?

Jean Pascal – I feel extremely thankful to my fans for the support. I love my province and also the city of Quebec. It is my hope that we will do many more historic fights there as part of my career. The Mayor of Quebec City invested his enthusiasm in the fight and I am very fortunate for his support. We cannot wait for the bout – it is going to be an extremely hot night in Quebec City.

Thank you for your time and good luck with your up coming fight.

Thank you and watch: www.jeanpascalboxing.com

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

After embarking on an outstanding amateur career Robbie “Bomber” Peden turned professional back in late 1996, nearly ten years later he retired aged aged 33. Having gone 25-4(14) the highlight coming in February 2005 when in a rare appearance in his home country of Australia he won the IBF Super Featherweight title when he stopped Nate Campbell in the eighth round. The aforementioned amateur career saw him represent Australia in both the 1992 & 1996 Olympics. He then based himself in America for 10 years in which time he fought both Marco Antonio Barrera & Juan Manuel Marquez, so he’s well accustomed to the nuances of the game. Now 37, he works in the community with underprivileged kids though admits to being tempted by a return to the ring.

Hello Robbie, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – It’s been three and a half years since you retired from the Boxing ring, what have you done since you retired?

Robbie Peden – I started a not for profit organization Indigenous Solutions Aboriginal Corporation where I coordinate and facilitate programs for disadvantaged youth and families. I manage The Fitzroy Stars Health and Fitness Academy and co own a mobile gym company ( Mobile Gyms Australia) with my mate and former Commonwealth champion Julian Holland . I also tutor Indigenous/ Aboriginal children at local high schools trying to better lives of Aboriginal children through out Australia.

Anson Wainwright – Do you have anything to do with Boxing today?

Robbie Peden – Anson I run the Fitzroy Stars health and fitness academy. Here the boxing program is run through out the year from Monday to Friday.

Anson Wainwright – I would imagine the best part of your career was winning the in 2005 when you stopped Nate Campbell for the Vacant IBF Super Featherweight title. Looking back now what are your thoughts on that win and what it meant to you?

Robbie Peden – It was my ambition to go to America to test myself against the best in the world not to fight at home with hand picked opponents. Luckily the opportunity came for me to fight for the title in Australia. Although I didn’t get paid by the promoter Tony Caradona it was still one of the greatest experiences I have had in my life.

Anson Wainwright – Looking at your record it struck me that you had 29 fights but only 2 of them took place in Australia. Why was this?

Robbie Peden – I never wanted to be a big fish in a small pool. I wanted to swim with the sharks, I even bit a few! Obviously I did things a little different then most but I am happy with the choices I made in my career.

Anson Wainwright – You were a road warrior fighting in America many times plus Poland & New Zealand, can you tell us about some of the experiences you had going to all those places?

Robbie Peden – I was based in America for 10 years, but fought in Poland, New Zealand and Vanuatu as well. Andrew Golota wanted me to fight on his undercard in Poland against a Polish Olympian. But travelling with the Australian National team for 6 years, well there wasn’t much I hadn’t seen.

Anson Wainwright – How did you first become interested and then involved in Boxing?

Robbie Peden – I only started boxing to get the girls! (Joking) My father Brian Peden was a fighter and also excellent trainer. He trained my mother’s brothers so it was a natural progression.

Anson Wainwright – I would imagine from fighting so many times in America that you have several friends in the Boxing community? Can you name them & tell us about some of those relationships?

Robbie Peden – Many friends indeed, Roger Bloodworth my trainer, well with out him none of my Professional career would have been possible. I think there are too many people to name whom I consider friends over there. I will say I lost 2 of my good mates last year Vernon Forrest and Arturo Gatti as well as my daughter, so 2009 wasn’t a good year for me!

Anson Wainwright – I’m sure you have seen some crazy things in the Boxing world or been involved in some amusing things. Could you share one of your favourite Boxing stories with us?

Robbie Peden – The training camp with Pernell Whitaker when he was getting ready for Delahoya. That camp was a blast, everyone playing practical jokes on each other. Very funny camp!

Anson Wainwright – You fought many top guys in your career with the legendary Marco Antonio Barrera & Juan Manuel Marquez being the two biggest names. What can you tell us about those fights?

Robbie Peden – Both legends and Hall of fame specials. As for the Marquez fight I spewed up in the 9th round. I entered that fight with a virus but as it was a great opportunity I didn’t want to let it get away from me like the Proposed Augie Sanchez fight.

The Barrera fight I had a pretty good camp but was looking after a friend whom had a lot of issues. Of course things didn’t work out for me and I wasn’t as focused as I should’ve been.

I would like to add I do not wish to take away anything from these tow great fighters victories but I wasn’t 100% for them fights.

Anson Wainwright – Just a few pounds above were you fought two Australians Michael Katsidis and Lenny Zappavigna are making waves on the world scene. What are your thoughts on them and how good do you think they are? What do you think happens when Katsidis fights Marquez?

Robbie Peden – Both Michael and Lenny have been very, very well managed. Michael is never in a boring fight and Lenny is still learning his craft. I think that they’re just below the top echelon in the light weight division at the moment.

I went to Stathi’s (Michael’s brother) funeral last month. Having known both guys for a long time I knew how close they were. It will be very difficult for Michael to won this fight on even terms let alone with this tragedy happening, but things like this can take people to greatness!

Anson Wainwright – What guys do you think could make an impact on the World scene that you guys have in Australia that perhaps aren’t so well known and are on there way up?

Robbie Peden – We are a country of only around 20 million people so out talent pool in very small. Boxing has changed and is more about manipulating the ratings and the media to make the fighters seem better then they really are. I actually very rarely watch or attend boxing because of this reason.

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for the Boxing world and you fans?

Robbie Peden – I am seriously thinking of returning to boxing in 2011 to help bring attention to Aboriginal Men’s health. There is about a 15 to 20 year difference in the life span for Aboriginal men to non Aboriginal men in Australia. So I’d really like main stream media get behind my cause.

Thanks for your time Robbie.

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

Weekend Flurries – So far, and if we learnt anything in 2010 it was that your best laid plans are likely to be turned upside down, with several cancelations of big fights. It looks like an impressive 2011 calendar Bradley-Alexander on 29 January in Detroit, Montiel-Donaire on 19 February in Las Vegas, Lucian Bute fights in March & Manny Pacquiao’s next appearance will be on 16 April…A couple of interesting cards this weekend, Top Rank are doing their independant PPV in Anaheim, Ca i look for Donaire to outpoint Wladimir Sidorenko & Humberto Soto to stop Urbano Antillon late. Solid fight for Mikey Garcia against Olivier Lontchi, who’s been very active in 2010. I’m interested to see how Jessie Magdeleno & Gabino Saenz look early in there fledgling career’s. Also this weekend Saul Alvarez gets back in action against Lovemore Ndou, I think Alvarez will be the first to stop Ndou. In Scotland Ricky Burns makes the first defence of his WBO 130 against Andreas Evansen, I see Burns outpointing his Scandanavian challenger.

Going into his WBC Super Bantamweight defense in October, some wondered if Toshiaki Nishioka 37-4-3(23) would grow old at 34 against the pressure of Britain’s Rendall Munroe. As it turned out Nishioka’s class told as he posted a near shut out win one of his best career performance’s. It was Nishioka’s fifth title defense, he’s also widely recognized as the number one fighter at 122. Here’s what the Japanese maestro had to say.

Hello Toshiaki, welcome back to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – Congratulations on your win over Rendall Munroe, you looked very impressive. What are your thoughts on the fight? What did you think of Munroe?

Toshiaki Nishioka – Munroe was a very skilled opponent. I was very impressed with endurance.

Anson Wainwright – It seems that at 34 even with some tough fights you are getting better, why do you think that is?

Toshiaki Nishioka – I believe it comes from my dedication to make myself better. I train hardest I can to make myself a better boxer.

Anson Wainwright – Though it’s early days do you have any idea when we may see you back in the ring? Any idea on who you may face?

Toshiaki Nishioka – I do not have any fights scheduled at this time. Mr. Honda will speak with me once he determines what would be a good match for me.

Anson Wainwright – You have fought once previously in 2010 when you beat Balweg Bangoyan when you stopped him in five. What can you tell us about that fight and what did you think of your performance?

Toshiaki Nishioka – I recall that I was not really looking for a knock out. But I was able to put him away in the 5 round.

Anson Wainwright – Your 34 now how much longer do you think you can continue to fight at the highest possible level? What would you like to do when you retire?

Toshiaki Nishioka – I want box for anther 10 years,

Anson Wainwright – You had four fantastic wars with Thai legend Veeraphol Sahaprom they must of helped shape you into the fighter you are today. What can you tell us about those 4 fights?

Toshiaki Nishioka – I do have lots of respect for Veeraphol. But, I do not believe that those 4 fights have made me the fighter that I am today. But those fights are some what in the past.

Anson Wainwright – Your Teikken Team mate Hozumi Hasegawa lost to Fernando Montiel back in April, Montiel has said he like to become the first Mexican to become a 4 weight world champion. Is that a fight you like to try to get revenge?

Toshiaki Nishioka – I would love the opportunity to fight Montiel.

Anson Wainwright – Over the summer you and some other members of Teikken went to Cardiff to attend “The Night of Champions” how did you enjoy the experience of being in Britain? What were your thoughts on how you thought the event went?

Toshiaki Nishioka – I had a great time and enjoyed meeting the people from UK.

Anson Wainwright – Japanese food is known to be healthy, can you tell us a little about your diet before a fight as it would be very different from what we eat in the West?

Toshiaki Nishioka – My typical diet is pasta in the afternoon and home made chicken soup at night.

Anson Wainwright – What fighters past or present do you enjoy watching fight?

Toshiaki Nishioka – I am a big fan of Sugar Ray Leonard.

Anson Wainwright – What goals do you still have in Boxing?

Toshiaki Nishioka – To become the the best fight I can possibly be.

Anson Wainwright – Finally you broke a few British hearts when you beat Rendell Munroe, do you have a message for him and his loyal fans who travelled thousands of miles to see the fight?

Toshiaki Nishioka – Munroe is a very talented fighter. He has what it takes to become a world champion. I hope to see him become a world champion someday.

Thanks for your time.

Anson Wainwright

15rounds.com

Random Thoughts – Having been in Las Vegas for several days, I’ve headed to Texas to visit relatives in Odessa. It’s true everything in the “Lone Star State” is bigger. My relatives have a house that’s 21,000 square feet house not including the land around. It’s also the biggest house between Fort Worth, Tx & Phoenix, Az. Highly impressive isn’t the word, I don’t have my own room, I have my own wing!…Nate Campbell decided to hang up his gloves after the weekend, Congrats on a solid career in which he won the WBA/WBO & IBF Lightweight Championships…Chavez Jnr finally pulled out of this weekend’s fight, not a tremendous surprise as there were lots of rumors of various things being up or wrong…Arthur Abraham said he’s undersized at Super Middleweight but still intends to go through with his next fight of the “Super 6”, something seems up he isn’t the beats he was at 160. If he can get back down to Middleweight maybe he could mix things up with Sergio Martinez or head back to Germany and fight Felix Sturm or get Russian Dmitry Pirog, all would be interesting.

Photo by : Naoki Fukuda/TEIKEN PROMOTIONS

Fresh off his epic thrill a minute fight of the year Ricky Burns wastes no time getting back into action making his first defense of the WBO Super Featherweight title when he squares off with Andreas Evensen on 4 December in the Braehead Area, Glasgow. Going into the Martinez fight Burns 27, wasn’t given much of a chance and was a heavy underdog with the bookmakers however he showed his promoter Frank Warren’s faith was well founded in getting him home territory when he posted a stunning performance to become Scotland’s thirteenth World Champion. His opponent Evansen 24, is rated 3# by the WBO sports a 13-1(5) record and fights out of Norway by way of Columbia has previously fought in Britain when he stopped Gianpiero Contestabile in 5. His biggest fight to date when when he lost a decision to former WBC 130 title challenger Benoit Gaudet. Here’s what the quiet affable Burns had to say.

Hello Ricky, welcome to 15 rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – Congratulations on a terrific win over Roman Martinez when you won the WBO Super Featherweight title. What can you tell us about the fight looking back?

Ricky Burns – I’ve only watched the fight back a couple of times. You know it still hasn’t sunk in. Again it was a great fight and I always said when I’m up against it that’s when I’m going to be my best. Because there was only a handful of people me and my camp who thought I was going to win the fight. So again when I watched it back I was very pleased with the outcome. Obviously Boxing’s all I’ve ever done since I was 12 years old when I put the gloves on. A world title is one of the most prestigious things you can ever get and I’ve achieved that.

Anson Wainwright – He put you down in the first and rocked you a couple of times. However you showed tremendous spirit and grit to weather the storm what are your thoughts on that now?

Ricky Burns – The knock down in the first I was was square on and off balance and I was going back at the time. I got straight up, if you look at my eyes I was fine. Everybody was panicking, I was having a look ringside and everyone clasped there heads in there hands. It was a clean shot. If I wasn’t been of balance and the damage could of been a lot worse.

Anson Wainwright – You wont be wasting any time making your first defense fighting Andreas Evensen what do you know about him & what are your thoughts on that fight?

Ricky Burns – I haven’t been able to get tapes on him. When I fight I don’t like to watch guys, I like to concentrate on the fight I’m going to fight. My trainer Billy Nelson sits down and picks what their good at and picks out faults and he tells me what to work on. He’s trying really hard to get some (Tapes). When you look at his record he’s won his last 5 by knock out so again another big puncher. I’m going to train exactly the same as for the last fight and I don’t see it being a problem, I just see me making a successful first defense.

Anson Wainwright – Since you won the title what have you been up to? How has winning the title changed things for you?

Ricky Burns – I’m trying to not let it change me. I don’t feel any different than before I won the fight. Obviously getting noticed a lot more, I’m getting more invites to do things. As you said I’m in the ring quite quick after winning the title. So my trainer doesn’t want anything interfering with the gym work because that’s the last thing you want is me concentrating on other things outside of the training. We can’t afford any slip ups.
I’ve been doing quite a lot. I was at the Scotland game (Soccer) when they played Liechtenstein. I was announced on to the pitch at half time. Also when the pope visited Scotland I carried the Scotland flag in the parade. I’ve been invited to a lot of other things with the Scottish First Minister. Again there coming up a couple of weeks before the fight so I’ve had to knock back a few things because I’m trying to focus on training. I’m trying to do what I can, but I don’t want to do to much. When I’m training for a fight I like to be 100% focused. It’s got to be done.

Anson Wainwright – Who is your manager, trainer & promoter? Also what gym do you train at?

Ricky Burns – My trainer is Billy Nelson. My manager is Alex Morrison & Frank Warren is my promoter. I train at Billy Nelson’s gym “The Fighting Scots gym”. The gym only has professionals who train there. I train along side John Simpson (A Featherweight who’s 21-7(9) who’s a former British & Commonwealth champion) and another couple of up and coming boxers Michael Roberts (1-0(0) Featherweight) he just boxed the other week on Alex Morrison’s show when he made his debut & Santino Caruana (5-1(0) Lightweight) he’s up and coming as well. He boxed and won as well. Their both hoping to be on the Braehead bill.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your early years growing up in Coatbridge, Scotland?

Ricky Burns – All through school, i was the quietest guy i wouldn’t of said boo to a ghost. I’m still the quietest guy you’ll meet. I like to keep myself to myself anybody who knows me will tell you that. The Boxing side of it. I see Boxing as my job. The gym opened up at the end of the estate and from the first time i walked in that was me hooked. I work part time in a sports shop D W Sports the shops in Coatbridge. I work part time, that gives me all week to concentrate on Boxing. My management & co-workers i get on really well with and don’t see it as a job. When I’m working i spend most of my shifts talking to customers because everyone who walks through the door i seem to know who they are. So again I really enjoy it all.

Anson Wainwright – You told me a couple of weeks after you won the title when you were in Birmingham attending “The Magnificent Seven” show that you were being awarded the WBO belt in the ring between fights that you were more nervous about that than fighting. Can you tell us about that and how it felt to be officially awarded the title?

Ricky Burns – In the ring I feel at home in the gym as well, as I say Boxing was all I ever wanted to do. Outside of the gym at the press conferences I’m really shy and after the fight i like things to go back to normal. I’m still trying to adjust to getting all the attention.

Anson Wainwright – There are several interesting fights for you with fellow British fighters like Stephen Foster Jnr who won the European title recently, British champion Gary Sykes along with Anthony Crolla & fellow Scot Paul Appleby are they fights you’d like or do you see them as steps backwards?

Ricky Burns – Earlier in my career I had been meant to box some of the names you mentioned. I was mandatory when Gary Sykes won the British title. I was mandatory to fight him for it. But obviously when I was offered the world title fight your going to jump at the chance. So I stepped aside. Again Stephen Foster Jr I was supposed to fight him a couple of years ago and the fight fell through. It’s the same with other boxers in Britain. I was down to box John Murray. I was down to box Kevin Mitchell and he had issues making Super Feather and he stepped up. As I’ve always said I’m willing to fight anybody that’s the attitude I had when I first put on the gloves and nothing has changed.
I’ve sparred with Paul (Appleby) a few times in the build up to the Martinez fight and earlier on in our career’s. The same with Alex Arthur. I’m sure he’d have the same attitude as me if the fight came up you’d put your friendship aside for that one night. At the end of the day it’s job.

Anson Wainwright – When your not Boxing what do you like to do with your time?

Ricky Burns – When I’m not training, I enjoy playing Golf. The biggest thing I do is my X-Box, I’m addicted to Call of Duty & FIFA. So if I’m not training you’ll find me in the house on Call of Duty. Outside the ring I’m just normal, the same as everybody else. I’m a Celtic (Soccer) fan, but I’m not into Soccer as much as when I was younger.

Anson Wainwright – Who was your Boxing hero growing up? What fighters do you like to watch today?

Ricky Burns – When I was growing up it was Prince Naseem Hamed. That was who we used to gather around to watch. Now I’d say my favorite is Floyd Mayweather.

Anson Wainwright – I don’t know if you got chance to meet him but he was at the “Magnificent Seven” show in September that you were also at.

Ricky Burns – I saw him when he came in and I was dying to go over and see him but me being me being dead shy I didn’t. I said to my mum and she said you didnt even get me his autograph! haha

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for your fans who supported you and will hopefully be cheering you on against Evansen?

Ricky Burns – I have a great support in Glasgow, especially Coatbridge. They make the night that bit more special. A big thank you to all my fans and everybody who comes to watch. Everybody has been unbelievable.

Thanks for your time Ricky, keep up the good work.

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

Midweek Musings – Last week i popped to see Marcos Maidana in his training camp ahead of his 11 December fight with Amir Khan, he looked in great shape, he was 145, he thinks Khan is over looking him and calling out the likes of Mayweather. He said “Khan has to win every second of the fight, i only have to win 1 second to win the fight” obviously alluding to his power…All the credit in the world to Juan Manuel Marquez, at 37 he once again reminded us of how great he is getting off the floor to win a ninth round stoppage over Michael Katsidis, at the moment I’d have to put that a fight of the year with the third round as round of the year…Much of the talk afterwords centered around Marquez wanting to fight Pacquiao personally I think the Filipino Congressman is a bit to big for Marquez who’s topped out at 135 but there’s no doubting he’s earned it. I’d prefer to see Marquez fight Erik Morales in Mexico, i think that would be a heck of an event South of the Boarder…Special shout out to Michael Katsidis & his manager/trainer Brendan Smith they certainly played there part in the roller coaster main event on Saturday, i think it’s testimony to their fiercely tough training camp they had in Thailand that they took so much until Marquez finally got to him. I’d like to see him take a well deserved break and come to terms with the devastating loss of his brother then get back into action maybe in front of his adoring fans in Australia, he’ll certainly be welcome back with open arms to America & Britain…Looks like they over matched Celestino Caballero taking him to 130, it was still close but he didn’t look the beast he has been at 122 or 126, it’s a long road getting one of the big guys at Featherweight now. Jason Litzau now deserves a title shot at 130 and he’d have a good shot at any of the champions…Stunning KO by Andre Berto, hopefully he gets a big fight next…Ghanaian Middleweight Bastie Samir looks like he’s a helluva puncher and has the potential to go places likewise Light Welterweight Michael Finney both scored second round KO’s…Get Well soon Kenny Adams, he’s currently in hospital but getting better.

Once again Mexican Legend Juan Manuel Marquez 52-5-1(38) proved that age is no obstetrical as he went toe toe with teek tough Michael Katsidis 27-3(22). The give and take action finally came to an end with the champion retaining his WBA & WBO titles via ninth round TKO at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas

The first round is pretty busy with both guys going straight to work, Marquez is more accurate and picks his openings while Katsidis closes the distance and stays in close to Marquez. The second see’s Marquez stay on the outside allowing Katsidis to come forward behind a high held guard. Marquez known as one of the games best counter puncher picks his way through Katsidis porous defense. Too his credit Katsidis continued to pressure Marquez landing some body punches. Nearly a minute into the third Katsidis lands a huge left hook that drops Marquez hard, to his credit he rides out the pressure and fires back his own combination’s. The third round is a contender for round of the year. Marquez enjoys a good fourth landing several eye catching combination’s to head and body. The fifth is much of the same, with Katsidis looking like a man who wont be denied walking through fire trapping Marquez on the ropes toward the end of the round. Katsidis makes Marquez work every second of the sixth & seventh rounds barreling forward pushing the hard nosed Mexican back. The war of attrition is well and truly on. Both guys have there moments in the eighth, Katsidis is marked under both eyes. Finally in the ninth when something had to give Marquez breaks through landing left uppercut hurting the brave Australian who backpedaled. Marquez jumped on his opponent and with plenty of time in the round picked his way through Katsidis until Kenny Bayliss stopped the action a 2.14 of the ninth round.

Afterwards Marquez said with regards a muted third fight with nemesis Manny Pacquiao “It’s what the public wants”

A gracious Katsidis afterward congratualted Marquez and spoke of the sad loss of his brother.

Andre Berto 27-0(21) made quick work of Freddy “El Riel” Hernandez 29-2(20) to retain his WBC Welterweight title for the fifth time. Catching him with a left hook followed by a right hand which punctured Hernandez guard sending Hernandez went down hard in the ring centre, to his credit he got up but referee Russell Mora waved the action over at 2.07 of the first round.

With none of the top guys at Featherweight willing to face Celestino Caballero 34-3(23) he moved up to Super Featherweight in an experiment that ultimately failed as he lost a close split decision to Jason Litzau 28-2(21) when the scores were totaled Litzau won 96-94 & 97-93 while the third judge scored it 96-94 for Litzau. On the HBO on the night scales Litzau weighted 140 while Caballero was 135.

Minnesota’s Litzau started well pressuring Caballero back for most of the first round. Caballero content having seen what Litzau could do picks up the pace. Both guys start fast throwing bombs, a big left from Caballero mid way through the round hurts Litzau, who quickly returns fire. Both guys look like they feel they have the power to take the other out. Caballero takes the fourth with a barrage of punches after shaking Litzau up with a solid right hand. The fifth see’s Litzau get back into the fight, again both guys trade punches with Litzau getting greater success, Caballero’s face is starting to swell. Litzau again enjoys a good round, his greater strength seems to be effecting Caballero in the sixth. The seventh is fairly scrappy round with Litzau pushing forward. Caballero regains a foot hold in the fight landing a solid left hook early in the round and another impressive combination in the middle of the round. The ninth & tenth see both guys land good shots with the momentum going back and for, in what’s a tough round to score.

Campbell Shocked – Nate Campbell dropped back down to Lightweight after a brief sojourn to Light Welterweight when he was unsuccessful against Victor Ortiz. He was expected to get back to winning ways, it didn’t prove that way as he was out hustled over 8 rounds by perennial journeyman Walter Estrada who won his third fight in a row to move to 38-13-1(25). Campbell 38, looked flat and was beaten to the punch by the Colombian on several occasions even getting rocked in the second round. Estrada was deducted a point in the third for hitting and holding. Estrada won a split decision 77-74×2 & Campbell took the other 76-75.

Cuban sensation Erislandy Lara 14-0(9) didn’t need long to dispose of Tim Connors 10-2(7). The end came at 1.38 when Lara first dropped Connors with a stiff jab. To his credit Connors rose but clearly shaken walked into a barrage of shots and was on his way down when the fight was called off. With the win Lara collects Vacant WBA Fedalatin Light Middleweight title.

Florida’s Keith Thurman 15-0(14) kept him impressive unbeaten record when he took apart Favio Medina 23-3-3(8) stopping him in the fourth with a right hand.

In Middleweight action Bastie Samir advanced to 7-0(7) when he battered Billy Cunningham into submission at 1.56. Cunningham was down 3 times before referee Jay Nady halted proceedings.

Michael Finney impressively moved to 6-0(6) when he stopped Clayvonne Howard 2-5-1(1) at 1.26 of the second round. Howard was hurt by a left hook at the end of the first round. Finney pounced on his man in the second pushing him back mixing head and body shots landing 3 hard left hooks that prompted the referee to stop the fight with Howard slumped on the ropes.

Ahead of this weekend’s Marquez-Katsidis fight, we asked 10 fighters who reside at or near Lightweight what there thoughts & predictions are.

John Murray – Lightweight Contender. WBC 3, WBO 9 & The Ring 6.

I think Marquez will win it, I think he’s a bit to cute, a bit too clever for Katsidis.

Ricky Burns – WBO Super Featherweight Champion

I think it’s a cracking fight, I’m sure it’s going to be a total war. Actually when Katsidis boxed here last time against Kevin Mitchell I was on the undercard. With Katsidis what you see is what you get, all action he’ll come forward. I think Katsidis is going to win this one. I don’t see him stopping Marquez; he’s been in with the best so again I see Katsidis winning on points.

Robert Guerrero – Two weight world champion, WBA 2, IBF 6 & WBO 1.

I’m picking Marquez in a unanimous decision. I think he’ll out box him.

Roman Martinez – Former Super Featherweight champion.

Given Marquez experience and counterpunching abilities I think Juan Manuel must win by knockout. Katsidis will put up a fight but it’s going to be difficult for him to try to box or fight against Marquez; he’s really good.

Juan Diaz – Former WBA/IBF & WBO Lightweight Champion who fought both Marquez (Losing twice KO8 & PTS12) & Katsidis (Winning PTS12)

I believe that Marquez is gonna take a victory with a decision but saying that it wouldn’t surprise me if Katsidis stops Marquez because I think if it goes to a decision Marquez is going to take it but at the same time I saw Marquez slowing down a bit in our last encounter and knowing Katsidis and knowing what a power puncher he is Marquez is going to that risk of getting beat by Katsidis.

I would say Katsidis is no doubt is the stronger puncher but Marquez is more accurate puncher. Katsidis throws a lot of punches and there very strong but Marquez is fast and accurate puncher.

I think that Marquez is going to try to outbox Katsidis because he saw how I beat him and another guy who beat him very easily is Casamayor. I think that’s going to be his game plan.

Brandon Rios – Lightweight Contender. WBC 4, WBA 1 & The Ring 5.

I’m going for Marquez, I think he might pull the victory; he’s smart, very technical he does a good job at it. So I think he came out with the win. But it’s going to be very hard because Katsidis is a pressure fighter and he throws a lot of punches and he has a nice hit. It’s going to be a good fight. It’s going to be a war fight. I think Marquez might win and I’d love to fight the winner.

Lenny Zappavigna – Lightweight Contender

Be great fight and a hard fight for Katsidis but that’s what every one said about my fight so lets just hope that Michael does the same and show the world that we are just as good as the Americans. Go hard Kats all the best to you and Brendon Smith good luck and god bless

Anthony Peterson – Lightweight Contender

I think that it’ll be a very competitive fight a gruelling bout, a lot of highlights which will please the fans. A lot of cuts due to left and right uppercuts from Marquez. I think it’ll be about a ten round TKO due to cuts Juan Manuel Marquez.

Nate Campbell – Former WBA/IBF & WBO Lightweight Champion.

Experience wise Marquez, but i don’t know how much he has left in his legs. If he still has his legs he’ll box circles around Michael Katsidis if not Katsidis will run him over. I’m going for Marquez but i love Katsidis style.

Juan Manuel Marquez 134 -V- 135 Michael Katsidis
WBA/WBO & Ring magazine Lightweight Title 12 Rounds

Andre Berto 145 -V- 147 Freddy Hernandez
WBC Welterweight Title 12 Rounds

Celestino Caballero 130 -V- 130 Jason Litzau
Super Featherweight 10 Rounds
Caballero had to re-weigh as he was initially 1.5pounds over.

Erislandy Lara 154 -V- 154 Tim Connors
Light Middleweight 10 Rounds

Nate Campbell 139 -V- 136 Walter Estrada
Lightweight 8 Rounds

Keith Thurman 149 -V- 149 Favio Medina
Light Middleweight 8 Rounds

Bastie Samir 163 -V- 162 Billy Cunningham
Middleweight 4 Rounds

Michael Finney 146 -V- 141 Clayvonne Howard
Light Welterweight 4 Rounds

This Saturday Andre Berto 26-0(20) makes the fifth defence of the WBC Welterweight title against Freddy “El Riel” Hernandez on the bumper “Warriors” promotion from The MGM Grand Garden Hotel Casino, Las Vegas, NV. Berto 27, is one of Boxing’s brightest young stars who hopes to win and win imressively and catapult himself into a fight with one of Boxing’s biggest names. It almost happened back in January when he was scheduled to fight Shane Mosley, but with a heavy heart he pulled out when 8 of his relatives lost their lives in Haiti in the earthquake. Now Berto who now resides in Winter Haven, Florida fights in their memory. We spoke with Berto briefly prior to his work out at The Extreme Couture Gym in Las Vegas, here’s what he had to say.

Hello Andre, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – On Saturday you’ll be fighting Freddy Hernandez what do you know about him and what are your thoughts on this fight?

Andre Berto – Freddie Hernandez is a good, tough Mexican fighter that’s going to come to win. He has a good right hand. He’s going to come and try to win that title Saturday night.

Anson Wainwright – Where did you train for this fight? How did it go? How long for?

Andre Berto – We trained down in central Florida. We were there for 8 or 9 weeks. We had a tremendous training camp, I had great sparring partners and I think we’re ready.

Anson Wainwright – Originally it was hoped you may fight mandatory Selcuk Aydin, what happened with that fight? Do you have to fight him after Hernandez if your successful?

Andre Berto – Umm you know i’m not sure. I don’t think there’s any fight I have to take at all next. We tried to get it done for this fight but I feel his team for some reason didn’t want to do it at the last minute so we just took the next best thing.

Anson Wainwright – This will be only your second fight in Las Vegas, can you tell us what it’s like to be back in the Boxing capital of the World ahead of the fight?

Andre Berto – I’m excited, I love Vegas and this is a mecca for a lot of huge fights right now. I’m just excited to be a part of it.

Anson Wainwright – You looked to step up with the Mosley fight that was cancelled, obviously you have to take care of Hernandez Saturday but what is your plan for 2011?

Andre Berto – You know 2011 I want big fights, people want to see. It’s about that time, we’re going to try to take care of business Saturday night. Hopefully opportunity’s open up in 2011.

Anson Wainwright – It’s well documented what happened in Haiti and your sad loss of family, can you tell us a little about that and how are things at the moment over there?

Andre Berto – Things are still rough over that way, you know there still going through a lot of tremendous loses, first with the earthquake situation and now they have Cholera situation, they can’t catch a break right now. You know it’s up to us to continue to bring that awareness and do all we can. We have our foundation Berto Dynasty Foundation, that’s in full effect. We’re in partnership with other foundations like Project Medishare, Bill Clinton Foundation and in 2011 we’re looking forward to continue to putting things together and put together a major plan to make a difference.

Anson Wainwright – It has been said that you get over paid by HBO for fighting second tier guys, can you respond to that?

Andre Berto – At the end of the day these people need to understand that this is something we love but at the same time we’re risking our lives everytime we step in the ring. I basically put myself in the situation and surrounded myself with a team that really recognise that and recognise my challenge and we try to do all we can to handle business inside the ring. I have a tremendous team who handle the business for me outside the ring so you know. We have to make sure it all equals out.

Anson Wainwright – Is there a fight that you particularly crave?

Andre Berto – I mean anybody right now, we’re just focused on Saturday night. I believe all the big fights will be there come 2011

Anson Wainwright – How do you look at the Mayweather-Pacquiao superfight? What are your thoughts on that?

Andre Berto – It’s a fight everyone wants to see, I mean if Floyd Mayweather, actually he’s been in the game for about 15 years and Manny Pacquiao has been dominating the scene the last couple of years. There the top guys in the world so it’s only right that people want to see them fight each other.

Anson Wainwright – Do you have a message for your fans?

Andre Berto – Just continue watching, i believe it’s the greatest sport in the world and don’t feel there’s anything like it. I know not everyone can do what we do. So continue to support it.

Thanks for your time Andre, good luck with your fight Saturday.

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

What a great weekend of fights there’s the HBO Championship Boxing card headlined by Marquez-Katsidis with Berto-Hernandez & Caballero-Litzau in chief support. Also appearing are Nate Campbell, Erislandy Lara, Keith Thurman and prized prospects Michael Finney & Bastie Samir…Showtime will show Abraham-Froch on tape delay and Ward-Bika…Wow I never knew it got so cold in Las Vegas, it seems I brought the British weather with me!

On Thanksgiving weekend two of Boxing biggest Warriors collide for the WBA/WBO Lightweight Championship. It feature’s Mexican Legend and reigning champion Juan Manuel Marquez against Australian Michael Katsidis.

Yesterday they both arrived at the MGM Grand Garden Hotel Casino ahead of this weekend clash. First Challenger Katsidis arrived and made his way to the stage to cheers then pre-fight favorite Marquez entered smiling to a rapturous reception. Both fighters were greeted by promoter Oscar De La Hoya who was equally popular amongst the fans in attendance.

After a brief run through on proceedings De La Hoya talked about the fight and spoke highly of both guys.

Then it was the turn of the trainers, first to the the dais was Brendan Smith, Katsidis trainer who said “Michael’s worked hard for 3 months, very hard”

Adding “2001 we turned pro and the goal was to be Super Champion, on Saturday we come to realize that dream, it’s an honor to fight Marquez but we come to win and only win”

It was then the turn of Marquez longtime trainer Nacho Beristain “We had a great training camp, we’re ready to go”

Finally the fighters had there say Katsidis said “This is going to be a great fight, it was one tough training camp. There was a fair bit of speculation over the last month because of my brothers death”

“It was tough and as everyone knows, nothing is ever easy. We’ve endured to some tough times and we’re here to win.”

Next came the legendary 3 weight champion Marquez who said “First of all, I really applaud Michael Katsidis character for his bravery in fighting after the death of his brother. I have the greatest respect for him and wish the best for his family. Everyone knows Katsidis is a strong fighter and a warrior. However I have prepared myself hard for this type of fighter. I don’t have to say any more. I’m ready to give a great fight to all of the people.”

The promotion is sponsored by Tecate who will be offering rebates on packs of their beer for those watching the fight.

“Warriors” goes live on HBO Championship Boxing at 9.45 East, 6.45 Pacific.

Tickets remain priced from $350 all the way down to $50.

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

It’s been nearly a year since Juan “El Exterminador” Palacios 26-3(21) last fought when he lost a razor thin majority decision in Thailand against unbeaten WBC ruler Oleydong Sithsamerchai. He gets back to work this Thursday when he faces Luis Carlos Leon 11-3(10) in the more hospitable confines of his nations capital Managua as part of the WBA convention. He hopes that if he can stay active and busy he may get another chance to win a world title. It would be his third attempt, way back in 2002 as a novice he travelled to Mexico and introduced himself to the world scene at Strawweight when he lost a split decision to then champion Jose Antonio Aguirre. Since then he has remained a fixture in the top ten of the division. Palacios now 30, did win the WBC Interim title and defended it twice prior to the Oleydong fight. Currenly the pint sized Nicaraguan is WBC 4, WBA 2 & The Ring magazine’s number 6.

Hello Juan, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – We’re approaching a year since you last fought when you went to Thailand and challenged Oleydong Sithsamerchai for his WBC Strawweight title. When can we expect to see you back in action?

Juan Palacios – I will be fighting on Nov 25th in Nicaragua in the WBA Convention fightcard to be held in Nicaragua. I think I am fighting a Colombian or a Mexican guy.

Anson Wainwright – The fight with Oleydong was extremely close, looking back at the fight and trip to Thailand what can your feelings looking back?

Juan Palacios – It was a learning experience. I am not pleased at the result. I felt I beat him. If I were given a second chance I think I can beat him soundly. Sithsamerchai however, is a great fighter.

Anson Wainwright – You recently signed with Prodesa who will now promote you, what can you tell us about this deal?

Juan Palacios – I am happy to be with them. They do a good job promoting kids. They also offered me a sweet deal and most importantly the chance to fight on a constant basis. Since they are relatively small they treat boxers very well. They have some really good talent at the lower weights with fighters like Roman Gonzalez, Carlos Buitrago, Yader Escobar and Nerys Espinoza. Sparring with them will really help me improve.

Anson Wainwright – Now that you have signed with Prodesa will you be staying at 105? If so what is your plan of attack?

Juan Palacios – I want to get active again. They promised me a lot of activity. A few fights with them and I will be back on track for a world title. I want to remain at 105 pounds.

Anson Wainwright – What do you think of the Strawweight division at the moment? The world champions WBC Oleydong WBA Roman Gonzalez IBF Nkoshinathi Joyi & WBO Donnie Nietes are all very strong what are your thoughts on them?

Juan Palacios – Gonzalez recently moved up a weight. He is really solid all around. Training with him is a real challenge. Joyi is pretty impressive. Sitsamerchai and Nientes are very good. I think I can hang with them. I think I can beat both Sithsamerchai and Nietes. Joyi and Gonzalez would be really hard fights.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your early years growing up in Nicaragua? Were things tough for you?

Juan Palacios – Thing is Nicaragua are always tough. Up till I became a world champ things became a little easier.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us how you first became interested and started in Boxing?

Juan Palacios – I am a real veteran of boxing. I started boxing at the age of 11. I have not stopped since then. I turned pro at around 20 years old. Boxing is my life. It has given me many good things and helped grow as a man.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your team, who is your manager, trainer & what gym do you train at?

Juan Palacios – I have a new team now. My manager is Carlo Pilato and Silvio Conrado. They manage many talented kids including world champs Roman Gonzalez and Jose Alfaro. My trainer is Rey Mendoza. He used to train former champs Rosendo Alvarez and Luis Perez. I train both at Alexis Arguello Gym and Roger Deshon gym. I spar at the Roger Deshon gym because they have some really good talent there.

Anson Wainwright – Your country has produced some very good fighters at Strawweight including Rosendo Alvarez do you know Alvarez & did you ever spar with him? Most recently Roman Gonzalez. How highly do you rate Gonzalez? How do you see a fight with Juan Raveco going?

Juan Palacios – I used to spar with Alvarez often. He was a brutal puncher. He had really good combinations. Gonzalez is a lot younger. He is way more polished than a veteran Alvarez. If he keeps his head straight he will be awesome. Its like he is programmed to box. A well trained and motivated Gonzalez can KO Reveco inside of 6 rounds.

Anson Wainwright – Much has been made of your new stable mate Carlos Buitrago, though he’s still only young can you give us your thoughts on him?

Juan Palacios – He is slick. I like him. I used to bruise him up a lot but he is improving. He has a quick jab and boxes really nice. His speed is his best weapon. He is not a hard puncher. Lately he has improved a lot. On occasions he has given me tons of trouble because he throws a lot of punches and gives you a lot of lateral movement. If he gets stronger he will be a real force.

Anson Wainwright – When your not Boxing what do you like to do with your time? What are your hobbies and interests?

Juan Palacios – I sell dietary suppliments. I promote products for a company called Herbal Life with my wife. It’s a small business but we have been increasing our sales gradually. Apart from that I spend a lot of time with my wife. She is my best friend. We have a great relationship.

Anson Wainwright – You made a name for yourself when as an unknown you challenged Jose Antonio Aguirre for his WBC Strawweight title 8 years ago, looking back at that fight you had to go to Mexico for the fight and again lost a close decision what are your thoughts on that fight?

Juan Palacios – Fighting outside of your country is difficult. Sometimes decisions favor the local guy. Aguirre is afraid of me. He did not want to fight me again. My three victories as a world champ were the product of Kos. Nobody can challenge a KO. I knew that come decision time with Sithsamerchai that I had lost. I knew this because the world is not a fair place.

Anson Wainwright – Who were your hero’s growing up? Who do you enjoy watching fight today?

Juan Palacios – I guess it would have to be Alexis Arguello or Roberto Duran. Arguello was awesome. 19 straight defenses in three different weight classes. What a bad ass!! Currently, I like to watch Pacquiao. He is so talented it is unbelievable. I used to like ODLH and Trinidad.

Thanks for your time “El Exterminador”

Thank you!!!

Anson Wainwright

15rounds.com

I spoke with Brandon Rios, he said he felt a little sluggish at the start of his fight but was happy with the performance in the end. He regrets his part in the video nasty saying he knows it wasn’t very mature of him and was just banter between the two camps. Overall he enjoyed the Dallas experience and was proud of Margarito and the heart he showed. He confirmed he’ll be ringside for “In Harms Way” when Humberto Soto fights Umberto Antillon and hopes to meet the winner in March. For now he’s waiting on the birth of his child…Also at Lightweight it looks like WBA champion Miguel Acosta is headed for Japan early next year to fight Takehiro Shimada… Did Sergio Martinez lock up fighter of the year & KO of the year on Saturday, he does for my money, it’s been a Maravilla year for him.

When Beibut Shumenov left the unpaid ranks for the professional scene he said he was going to quickly fight and win a world title. Being a man of his word he got on the fast track and in just his ninth fight he fought Gabriel Campillo, though that didn’t go well as he lost a close decision they rematched in January of this year and Shumenov took the title a shade over 2 years into his pro career. While many believed he had been lucky to win the rematch with Campillo, Shumenov proved that winning the title had made him a better fighter when he posted the most impressive win of his career to date when he beat unbeaten mandatory Viacheslav Uzelkov. Again not one to sit on his laurels and milk the title he’s in the process of hopefully working out a deal to fight Germany “Thousand Year Talent” Jurgen Braehmer. The 27 year old Kazakhstani now lives in Las Vegas and sports a 10-1(6) record. Here’s what he had to say.

Hello Beibut, welcome back to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – Since we last spoke have won the WBA Light Heavyweight title beating Gabriel Campillo what can you tell us about how it felt to win the World title?

Beibut Shumenov – It was my dream to become a World Champion. One of my goals was to win the WBA title but my ultimate goal is to unify all of the major light heavyweight championships.

Anson Wainwright – Many believed that you were lucky to of beaten Campillo what do you have to say about that?

Beibut Shumenov – Luck had nothing to do with it. Two of the best judges in boxing had me winning that fight. In boxing there are always critics. All I can do is fight to the best of my ability. If I don’t knock out my opponent, the judges determine who wins and I won that fight.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us when we can expect to see you in action next? It has been rumoured that you may unify with Jurgen Braehmer? Can you tell us about that?

Beibut Shumenov – I’m hoping to be back in action in early January and my goal is to unify.

Anson Wainwright – Your last fight was in July when you looked impressive beating Vyacheslav Uzelkov in your first defence that must of been very satisfying as many tipped him to beat you? How do you see that fight looking back?

Beibut Shumenov – My trainer, Kevin Barry, helped get me in great shape and I’ve really improved my skills working with him. I beat the top rated, mandatory challenger who had previously knocked out Campillo. The win was very satisfying.

Anson Wainwright – What have you done with your time since the Uzelkov fight?

Beibut Shumenov – I’ve been training hard in Las Vegas where I live. I love training and Kevin keeps me going strong, even between fights. This is what I do for a living and I always want to improve and give maximum efforts in the ring.

Anson Wainwright – You initially promoted yourself with your company KZ Event Productions but before the Uzelkov fight you opted to sign with Dan Goossen at Goossen Tutor. Can you tell us why you did this?

Beibut Shumenov – I wasn’t able to concentrate 100-percent on improving and training for my fights. As the promoter there was so much else to do with my brother, Chingis, working on a promotion. Dan and his team have taken a lot of the load off my shoulders and I believe it showed in my last fight. For the most part, all I had to do was train for my fight and not worry about everything else associated with promoting an event.

Anson Wainwright – How has signing with Goossen Tutor changed things from a training point of view? Do they help with regardss that?

Beibut Shumenov – All I have to do now is focus 100-percent on training and my fight. There are no interuptions or distractions and just hard work.

Anson Wainwright – How is KZ Event Productions these days what fighters do you have on your roster & when is the next show?

Beibut Shumenov – I’m very proud of the fighters that we have under contract and have high hopes for all of them. They’re living and training here in Las Vegas. Gayrat (Ahmedov) is 15-0-1, the WBC Asian and PAPA light heavyweight Interim champion who is rated No. 8 by the WBA. Ravshan (Hudaynazarov) is one of the hottest welterweight prospects in the world. He is 13-0 with 11 knockouts, many coming from body shots, and he’s already rated No. 14 by the WBA. We just signed a good welterweight prospect, unbdefeated Alexandr Zhuravskiy, who is 9-0 with seven knockouts. He is from my country, Kazakhstan, and rated highly by the Asian Boxing Council and Asia Pacific. I expect that all three will be fighting on my next card.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us how popular you are in Kazahkstan? Are you one of the most recognised sports people & appear on tv and in adverts etc?

Beibut Shumenov – That’s a question that would be better answered by people back home. I can tell you that I appreciate all of the support I receive and a number of fans have traveled to the United States for my last two fights.

Anson Wainwright – The Light Heavyweight division has been quite interesting of late with Pascal beating Dawson, Tavoris Cloud is always in interesting fights, Nathan Cleverly beating Karo Murat etc what are your thoughts on the Light Heavyweight division and what in your opinion is the current top five?

Beibut Shumenov – Our division is very strong, one of the strongest in boxing. I don’t rate fighters but I think you’d have to include the world champions in the top 5 plus Dawson and a few others. I think the Light Heavyweight division is loaded and I want to fight any of the other world champions to unify the titles.

Anson Wainwright – This fall Jean Pascal fights Bernard Hopkins who do you think wins that fight & why?

Beibut Shumenov – I’m not into predictions. Pascal looked good defeating Dawson in his last fight. He’s an all-action fighter like me and someday I hope we can fight a unification. Hopkins is a living legend who is capable of beating just about anybody on a given night. Remember what he did to Pavlik.

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for the Light Heavyweight division?

Beibut Shumenov – I hold the WBA and IBA belts and I’m willing to put them both on the line for any of the other world title belts.

Thank you for your time Beibut.

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

Midweek Musings – I’ve seen the Haye-Harrison fight, that’s 473 seconds of my life I’ll never get back…To paraphrase a British sports reporter Sid Waddell “When Alexander of Macedonia was 33, he cried salt tears because there were no more worlds to conquer….. Pacquiao’s only 31″…Happy Birthday to Nonito Donaire who is 28 on the 16th Nov, former WBA Flyweight champion Koki Kameda who turned 24 on 17th Nov, David Tua & Antonio Tarver are 38 & 42 this Sunday 21 Nov…I’ll be heading for “The Entertainment Capital of the World” early next week to catch the Marquez-Katsidis scuffle, i’m really looking forward to seeing how that fight plays out, it has fight of the year potential…If there are any fighters you’d like to hear from drop me an e-mail and i’ll see what i can work out i’m on elraincoat@live.co.uk

It hasn’t been the 2010 that British Middleweight Darren Barker was hoping for. While he’s maintained his undefeated record, he’s been bogged down with a persistent hip injury that has seen him fight just once this year back in April.

That win saw him pick up the Vacant European title against teak tough Frenchman Affif Belghechem, who he bested over twelve rounds. The longstanding hip injury however wasn’t getting any better and Team Barker decided that they could no longer continue to fight anything less than 100%.

So Barker underwent surgery, over the course of the summer it was announced that Barker would defend against British rival Matthew Macklin in one of the most anticipated domestic showdowns of recent years. The fight was scheduled to appear on the “Magnificent Seven” show in Birmingham on 18 September.

It seemed too good to be true, and sadly that proved true when less than a week from fight night Barker was forced to pull out. The hip injury hadn’t healed; he was still in pain when he made the heart wrenching decision to pull out of a fight he also couldn’t wait to fight in.

His trainer Tony Sims said of the injury “Every time he ran it was hurting him, it got to the point where he couldn’t walk properly, that’s why it was necessary to have the operation”

“We went to Tenerife to train and he did one run there and he was in agony, we were out there for 2 weeks in a place where you do road work, we’d flown all that way and he couldn’t run up the mountain. That was the whole reason we were there. We knew when we came back there was no way we could fight (The Macklin fight)”

As the old saying goes the show must go on, the honourable Barker relinquished his treasured European title that Macklin dually picked up on the aforementioned “Magnificent Seven” card. The proviso being that Barker would have a direct shot at the European title when he returned from injury. “When he tried to come back for the Macklin fight, he never gave it long enough”

Adding “He did the hip 2 year previous, in reality I wish he had got it done then. The runs were becoming smaller and smaller because of the pain, in the end he couldn’t even walk”

When asked about Barker wanting to fight Macklin, Sims offers this about his charge “For two years we were chasing Macklin. Barker should of fought Elcock when Elcock was (British) Champion but Hennessy didn’t want them to fight but then the board took it to purse bids Barker, Elcock, Macklin & McDermott and they made a strange decision to make Darren fight McDermott in a final eliminator and Macklin straight in with Elcock”

“We won the final eliminator, Macklin won, good luck to him but I think Darren would of done the same thing to Elcock anyway. We wanted him then, he was the one avoiding us at that time. The Amin Asikainen fight he won, but you have to remember Asikainen was 33 and had been knocked out twice before he fought Macklin”

Though remaining respectful of Macklin’s ability Sims says “I think the two best names he beat were over the hill and knocked out before, they weren’t undefeated”

While believing that the British showdown will happen eventually after both guys were forced to pull out of scheduled fights with each other through an assortment of injuries he hopes it’s for a world title when they can maximise one of the most interesting domestic fights possible at the moment.

Though he doesn’t think that they needed Macklin as much he he needs them “We sold 4,000 tickets for Darren’s European title fight while they can barely do 1,500, he needs us more than we need him”

It was just a waiting game and Barker along with his team including Sims had to sit tight and hope that given the time that the hip would get better and respond to physio and get back to normal. Like many things there is no exact science to it, it’s simply waiting. The doctor told them “With an ordinary person they’d be a 100% but with an athlete you never know”

There was a time when Barker and everyone around him thought he may have to hang the gloves up and retire from the sport he loves so dearly.

Last week Barker went back to the gym and after rigorous work outs seems to be getting back to where he wants to be. Thankfully the pain that existed for several months seems to of subsided allowing him to move freely. “The progress is good, he’s not in pain and that’s the main thing, we’ll just keep seeing how he goes” However he reasons “All the sparring aint going to be the same as an actual fight”

When asked how long it maybe until Barker can get back into the squared ring Sims offers “Where hoping for February, that will be 10 months then since he’s fought. It’ll be a ten rounder, until he fight’s his mind isn’t going to be 100% right. After that fight where we can shake of the rust we’re right back into things and ready for anyone”

Weekend thoughts: Full credit to Pacquiao, he looked sensational. Enjoy him while he’s here, a true all time great…Say what you want about Margarito but he took his licks like a man…It took Brandon Rios a few rounds but when he got into his grove he looked pretty good, especially for a guy who was called up at late notice…Back last September I headed to Miami and saw Guillermo Rigondeaux and thought he had the look of a Superstar, he was passive against Cordoba he looked more Erislandy Lara than Yuriorkis Gamboa, he can’t half throw a gut wrenching bady shot…Jones-Soto Karass was a war, rematch anyone?…I’m not sure what they feed them in Mexico but I wish I could bottle it Margarito & Soto Karass showed hearts the size of true warriors…While the Boxing world tuned into the happenings in Dallas, Britain had it’s Boxing business, in Wladimir Klitschko’s words “Heavyweight Championship of London” David Haye destroyed Audley Harrison. Hopefully now Haye will step up and fight one of the Klitschko’s don’t hold your breath though…Harrison reportedly earned in the region of £1 Million pounds, we really do live in an age of mediocrity. Word is the BBBC are looking into with holding some of his purse…While most British Boxing enthusiasts headed for Manchester, I headed 30miles or so east to watch the Britain’s next generation of top amateur’s, in the first Olympic Qualifier. The most impressive performance arguably came from former European champion Luke Campbell who put on a clinic over Ian Weaver by 23-6, there we also wins for Tom Stalker, Bradley Saunders, Anthony Ogogo & Simon Vallily…I also caught up with David Price who’s headed to spar with Dereck Chisora ahead of his fight with Wladimir Klitschko, he said he hopes to fight next early next year on the Sam Webb-Prince Aaron card in a step up fight.

Through out the 90’s one of the best fighters in the World Pound for Pound was “Terrible” Terry Norris. He finished with a record of 47-9(31) and was a career Light Middleweight winning the WBC & IBF titles in his twelve year career. Norris now 43, still keeps in shape and keeps himself busy with various activity’s. Here what Norris had to say on a variety of subjects.

Hello Terry, welcome to 15rounds.com

Thanks for having me!

Anson Wainwright – Firstly how are thing’s? It’s been 12 years this November since retired what have you done with your time?

Terry Norris – Well I’ve just been relaxing, enjoying life.

Anson Wainwright – Do you still get fight fans recognise you and come over and have chat with you?

Terry Norris – People still recognize me when I’m out. Its nice to be remembered. I always take the time to talk with them. People also often mistake me for Keenan Wayens. Haha!

Anson Wainwright – Are you involved in any capacity in Boxing these days?

Terry Norris – Yes! I am currently just excepted an offer from the WBF to be Regional Supervisor for California. I’m training a few fighters and celebrities in my home gym in L.A doing some private boxing sessions. I’m also putting together a Youth Boxing Program for summer and after school. I’m forming my own boxing team/club. My wife and I have founded “The Final Fight” a foundation for Pro Boxers new and retired. We will provide resources such as financial advice, medical, housing etc. As you may know there are a lot of fallen Champs. I feel its time the real truth be told about what’s going on with them. We will use our foundation to also work towards the formation of a UNION for pro-boxers. We are doing a Reality Show and Documentary about it Called “The Lady and The Champ” this will also be the Title of my book.

Anson Wainwright – You had a really good career winning the WBC Light Middleweight crown three times and the IBF title once. You also fought a who’s who of 154 pounders. What was your proudest moment in Boxing?

Terry Norris – I have to say it was winning my first world title.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about how you first became interested in Boxing and the path you took until you eventually turned pro?

Terry Norris – My mom was the one to push me to start boxing to get me off of the streets. My dad was training my brother at the time. I spared a lot with my brother. I fought 290 amateur fights

Anson Wainwright – Who would you say was the best fighter you ever shared the ring with?

Terry Norris – Ray is by far the best I have shared the ring with. Amazing man and friend till this day.

Anson Wainwright – You were a career Light Middleweight, how come you never moved up to Middleweight?

Terry Norris – My physical condition was and still is amazing. I sometimes can’t believe it myself. I never fought Middleweight because I could never gain the required weight.

Anson Wainwright – Was there ever a fighter who you wish you could of fought, going back i remember reading in the press that about you fighting Trinidad, Whitaker and even Chavez. How close did any of those fights come to being made?

Terry Norris – Well I would have liked to fight all of them. But the Trinidad fight was inked. I actually still have the contracts signed by Don King and Trinidad. I’m going to frame it and hang it in my gym.

Anson Wainwright – Through out your Boxing career you must of seen or been involved in some amazing things. Do you have a story that you could share with us?

Amazing story? Wow, I have so many. Hard to pick one. Hahaha!

Anson Wainwright – How is your brother Orlin doing these days? What’s he upto?

Terry Norris – My brother is good. Living the family life.

Anson Wainwright – You fought for much of your career for Don King, how did you find working with him?

Terry Norris – Don king? No comment.

Anson Wainwright – What fighters today would you of liked to of fought and how do you think it would of gone had you fough them?

Terry Norris – Fighters today? Well I’m a true warrior I would fight them all! But Floyd, yea I would have beat. To strong and fast for him.

Thanks for your time “Terrible” Terry

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

At the recent WBC Convention Germany’s unbeaten Sebastian Zbik 30-0(10) and currently hold the Interim WBC championship was mandated to fight the winner of the upcoming Sergio Martinez-Paul Williams fight. He hopes to get the winner possibly as soon as March 2011. The 28 year old who resides in Schwerin, Germany debuted back in 2004 and has been busy ever since. He won the Interim title in 2009 beating Domenico Spada beating him by close unanimous decision, since then he has retained the title three times all on points including one of them when he bested Spada in a rematch. He’s what Zbik had to say when he spoke with us.

Hello Sebastian, welcome to 15rounds.com

Sebastian Zbik – Hi Anson, nice to talk to you. What about the weather on your island? In Hamburg we have a great autumn. Very sunny.

Anson Wainwright – Haha It’s getting very cold here but thanks for asking Sebastian.

Anson Wainwright – You last fought in July, do you know when and against whom you will fight against next?

Sebastian Zbik – My promoter confirmed that I will fight against the winner of Martinez vs.Williams. I’m looking forward to delete the word interim in my title.

Anson Wainwright – You beat unbeaten Jorge Heiland in your last fight what can you tell us about the fight and you performance?

Sebastian Zbik – Argentineans are tough guys. They never give up. Heiland had enough power to work 12 rounds. That was a good test for me. Martinez is also Argentinean.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your team, who is your manager, trainer & promoter? Also what gym do you train at?

Sebastian Zbik – My Dad is my manager. My promoter is Universum Box-promotion. I work at famous Universum Gym. I like the atmosphere. And I have a very good coach. Artur Grigorian was a long time world champion at Lightweight division. It’s great to work with him.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your amateur career? What titles did you win & what was your record?

Sebastian Zbik – I was one of the most successful German amateurs. I had 152 fights with 129 wins. 99 and 2002 I won a bronze medal at European championship.

Anson Wainwright – When you’re not fighting or training for a fight what is your walk around weight?

Sebastian Zbik – I don’t know, at the moment it feels like I’m a Cruiserweight! 😉

Anson Wainwright – What do you like to do away from Boxing?

Sebastian Zbik – Music, Fishing, Soccer – what a surprise.

Anson Wainwright – Some people will say that your the Interim champion and would like to see you step up and fight the best around at 160 Martinez, Williams, Sturm, Macklin, Pirog etc what do you say to them?

Sebastian Zbik – I wanna fight all these names. Sturm made me an offer which was ridiculous. I asked him last week again, why he is avoiding me. He wants to fight big names, he can start in his neighbourhood! He lives 4 hours away from Hamburg. I would fight him in his living room. Let’s see what happens during the next weeks. I recently started training after a 2 months off-time.

Anson Wainwright – What do you consider the top 5 in order Middleweights today?

Sebastian Zbik – Martinez, Pavlik, Golvkin, Pirog and me anywhere between them. Everybody can beat everybody…

Anson Wainwright – Who do you consider your toughest opponent to date? What is your best performance?

Sebastian Zbik – Domenico Spada – he was my mandatory challenger twice. And it worked quite well for me. The first fight I was injured and I only had stamina for 5 rounds, but it was my first big title fight so I did it…

Anson Wainwright – Who was your hero growing up? Who do you rate as the best fighter in the World today?

Sebastian Zbik – Manny Pacquiao – I like his style of boxing.

Anson Wainwright – What do you like to do away from Boxing?

Sebastian Zbik – Umm let me think about it after my sports career. Maybe I visit a university in order to study sports science?

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for the Middleweight division?

Sebastian Zbik – Let’s make big bouts! I m ready for it.

Thanks for your time Sebastian.

Much appreciated!

Anson Wainwright

15rounds.com

After a quiet fall so far things finally kick off in a big way with the Featherweight clash of Juanma Lopez against Rafael Marquez this Saturday. It presents us with a young up and coming fighter, who’s a two weight world champion against a older guy who’s place in the history books is already assured and looking to become a three weight world champion. Throw in the Puerto Rican, Mexico rivalry and this has all the makings a tremendous fight. It could be a changing of the guard if Lopez wins or it could be a reminder of just how good Marquez is if he wins. For his part Juanma has done all that has been asked of him so far going a perfect 29-0(26) which is a kayo ratio of nearly 90%. While Marquez boasts a 39-5(35) ledger with an almost equal kayo ratio. Showing both guys can clearly punch. Lopez has been down against Bernabe Concepcion & close to being stopped with Rogers Mtagwa while Marquez has been stopped in 4 of his 5 loses showing a chink in there armour. Of course you don’t go as far as these two guys if you can’t box, but a stoppage must be favoured in this battle of gunslingers. Here’s what Lopez had to say ahead of arguably his biggest fight to date.

Hello Juanma, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – You have a big fight coming up with Rafael Marquez, what are your thoughts on this fight?

Juanma Lopez – This is the greatest fight for me in my career. I think that I have to go in the best shape for this fight because I’m going to face a good fighter who’s also training hard for the bout. Marquez is a good champion and an experienced fighter.

Anson Wainwright – The fight was originally scheduled for 18 September but has been put back 6 weeks how has that effected you?

Juanma Lopez – The change had no effect for me because I came from a fight in July 10 and with the postposition I rested a little bit and continued my training as always. But with my family did affect a little because I would take my children to Disney World and now I have to take them after the fight.

Anson Wainwright – You gave your 30 day pre-weigh in how did that go? What do you normally weigh between fights?

Juanma Lopez – In the first pre-weigh in I made 136 pounds of a 144.9 maximum, I’m in a good way in this moment with this weight. Normally, when I don’t have fights, I’m in 144 or 145 pounds.

Anson Wainwright – This will be your third fight at Featherweight since moving up from Super Bantamweight, how much easier is it for you to make weight? Do you think you’ll stay at 126 for long?

Juanma Lopez – I’m very comfortable in this weight, it’s more easy to make the weight of 126. When I was in 122 for my latest fights I was dehydrated as the Rogers Mtagwa fight, my last in 122. I think that I’m going to fight in 126 for a year, always looking for the good offers.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your team, who is your manager, trainer & promoter? Also what gym do you train at?

Juanma Lopez – My manager is Orlando Piñero, who has been with me from amateur and is like a father, my trainer is Alex Caraballo and my promoters Top Rank and PR Best Boxing Promotions. I train in the Jose “Cheo” Aponte Gym in Caguas, Puerto Rico.

Anson Wainwright – Much has been made of your rivalry with Yuriorkis Gamboa, what are your feelings on him and that potential fight?

Juanma Lopez – That is a fight it must be given, promoters have been talking about that for a long time. Both of us want the fight and if all goes well, it’s going to make in the summer of 2011. We are both hard punchers and there will be a good fight between Gamboa and me.

Anson Wainwright – The Featherweight is pretty strong at the moment along with Marquez & yourself you have Celestino Caballero, Elio Rojas & Chris John along with up and comers like Mikey Garcia & Juan Carlos Burgos. What are your thoughts on those guys & how strong the Featherweight division is?

Juanma Lopez – In this moment the division is one of the best. I want to face the best fighter and I’m ready for all of them, Chris John, Celestino Caballero, Gamboa, Rojas. There are a lot of talent in this 126 division right now.

Anson Wainwright – So far what fight do you think was your best performance & why? Also which KO of yours do you consider the best?

Juanma Lopez – I had good fights in my career, but one of my best performances was the Daniel Ponce de Leon KO. It was in my first title bout and I knocked out him in the very first round. He was downed three times, it was a great fight for me.

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for Rafael Marquez ahead of your fight?

Juanma Lopez – The message is that he will be well trained for this fight because I’m training to do the best. I know he is a good boxer and I’m training for that, to box, to brawl, to everything will happen in that ring.

Thanks for your time Juanma keep up the good work.

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

It’s been a tough year for Elio “The Kid” Rojas 22-1(13) it started well enough when he went to Mexico and soundly outpointed local Guty Espades Jnr over tweleve rounds in his first defence of his WBC Featherweight title. He was then scheduled to unify with the WBA Champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in July when that was postponed until September only for a troublesome shoulder injury to force Rojas out of the fight with the Cuban sensation. He has been on the shelf ever since, now thankfully he seems to be on the road to recovery and hopes to be back in action in early 2011 when he will be looking to make up for lost time. Here’s what the highly skilled Dominican Republic fighter had to say.

Hello Elio, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – You are currently injured what can you tell us about the injury? How is your shoulder now & how long much longer do you think it will keep you out?

Elio Rojas – It started with stiffness on my left shoulder during camp training for the Sept. 11, 2010 Gamboa fight but the real concern was the constant swelling on my right hand when I was hitting the punching bag. As far as my shoulder it’s at 100% and the hand is healing nicely should be at 100% capacity by December and should be ready to defend my title by February 2011.

Anson Wainwright – How did the injury first happen?

Elio Rojas – The Guty Espadas, Jr. Fight, February 20, 2010 in Yucatan, Mexico.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your team, who is your manager, trainer & promoter? Also what gym do you train at?

Elio Rojas – Team Rojas is comprised of people I look up to & respect for what they have done for me & who believe in me unconditionally namely: Manager- Antonio “Tony” Tineo, Trainer-Calvin Morgan, Corner & Cut Man-Manny Seaca, & Promoter-Don King/Don King Promotions.

Rojas manager Tony Tineo also wished to add “Elio “The Kid” Rojas has teamed up with the Reading Inner-City Boxing Club, Reading, PA. The popular Dominican WBC champion has committed to serving as a role model for the youth of the boxing club. Since being introduced to the gym Rojas is impressed with this citywide year round after school program at Baer Park, West Douglass and George Sts in Reading which follows an approach that has proven to work in cities around the nation in attracting at risk youth; in particular youth involved in gang behaviors. Rojas believes that the success of the program reflects the continual need to provide meaningful recreational opportunities delivered by volunteers who assist youth in their growth as healthy and productive individuals. He is excited about serving in a leadership capacity for these kids. Rojas will announce that he will schedule exhibition matches and future press conferences at the Reading Inner-City Boxing Club; which will also provide the facility opportunity for his own training needs”

Anson Wainwright – You won the WBC Featherweight title when you went to Japan and beat Takahiro Aoh in July 2009. What are your thoughts looking back on that fight and what it meant to you to win a world title?

Elio Rojas – In one word “Incredible”, but in many more “A Dream Come True.” Beating a champion or opponents, like I did with Guty Espadas, Jr. also, at their own backyard is always a great feeling because you have to earn the respect of the crowd and your opponent and that’s the encouragement and motivation I feed off on to even want to win the bout even more. Plus that fight was dedicated to my inspiration, my dad, may he rest in peace, who always wanted it just as much as I did. That’s why when I won the WBC Featherweight Championship Title Belt I lifted the belt in the sky to tell him “it was for you, because of you and for believing in me no matter what.” I saw the best way to honor him was by winning the championship.

Anson Wainwright – You then fought in Mexico and beat Guty Espades on points. What can you tell us about that fight & how happy were you with that performance?

Elio Rojas – It was my first title defense but now I was being respected, recognized and taken seriously among the boxing world as a true boxer, competitor and champion. And, to be forward with you I thrive off beating good competitors on their own playing field. It’s like when MJ use to beat the Knicks in MSG. If someone out there hasn’t seen me in action-follow me on You Tube and see that my conditioning and discipline is so at point that I can beat the best of them by my punching ability or go the distance without tiring out like a true champion. It wasn’t by a split decision it was by a unanimous decision that I won my first defense.

Anson Wainwright – How did you first get into Boxing in The Dominican Republic?

Elio Rojas – My father was the motivator. He was a Physical Education Instructor and Personal Trainer in the Dominican Republic and always stressed the importance of good and healthy physical conditioning and discipline in sports. That was instilled in me since the age of seven and since I always admired as a child the sport of boxing I embraced it as a means to a way to make my family, especially my dad proud of me.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your amateur career, what tournaments did you fight at & what was your final record?

Elio Rojas – My amateur career consists of 195 fights; 193 wins & 2 losses. 2001 World Championship Bronze Medallist in Belfast & 2002 Central American & Caribbean Games Gold Medallist. And, currently Professionally 22 wins, 1 lost & 0 draws.

Anson Wainwright – What do you like to do away from Boxing to relax? What are you hobbies & Interests? What other sports do you enjoy watching and what teams do you support?

Elio Rojas – My relaxation consists of listening to Tropical Music; Merengue, Salsa, Bachata, Reggaeton. My hobbies & interest is watching Baseball / Basketball & watching Boxing of course especially my future opponents. My favorite teams are the New York Yankees & the Los Angeles Lakers.

Anson Wainwright – If you weren’t a boxer what do you think you would be doing?

Elio Rojas – I would be a lawyer like my uncle or be playing baseball 2nd baseman next to Jeter & A-Rod.

Anson Wainwright – You were scheduled to fight Yuriorkis Gamboa before your injury, what do you think of him as a fighter? What about the other champions WBA Chris John & WBO Juanma Lopez?

Elio Rojas – Oh man that’s the fight the world wanted to see and that’s the fight I wanted so bad. He’s a good fighter but I’m better!!! But, I’m a smart fighter I have to look at my long term existence but because of the injuries I had to listen to my advisors recommendations and view it as a sound decision on my future in boxing. As far as Chris John & Juanma Lopez they are two good boxers but again I’m a better fighter and look forward to being in the ring with them one day but that’s left up to the promoters. My job is to be ready when the moment presents itself. But the fight I have my eye on is a Rojas vs. Lopez showdown in New York City, preferable in Madison Square Garden or better yet Yankee Stadium, because that’s what the public and the boxing world yearns for two islanders; the Dominican Republic Champion vs. Puerto Rican Champion united in the biggest Island of all NEW YORK CITY-Isla De Los Campeons it definitely would be a SRO event and a boxing classic for the books.

Anson Wainwright – What Boxer was your hero growing up & who do you enjoy watching today?

Elio Rojas – Growing up I loved watching film clip classics of the Legendary Boxers like; Muhammad Ali, Larry Holmes, and Bernard Hopkins. The boxers I really enjoy watching today are Roy Jones, Jr., Floyd Mayweather, Jr. and Jhonny Gonzalez.

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for your fans?

Elio Rojas – First of all I want to thank my biggest fan God, then you of course and to all my supporters who have embraced me as there champion in and out of the ring. I appreciate your unconditional continued support and rest a sure I will be back in the ring soon. And, that I miss them as much as they miss me. Watch out I will fight to become the next undisputed featherweight champion for 2011 and going forward.

Thanks for your time Elio, hopefully the shoulder recovers and we see you back in action soon.

Anson Wainwright

15rounds.com

Hours from now Lenny Zappavigna will be fighting Ji Hoon Kim in an IBF Lightweight eliminator. It’s a huge fight for both men Zappavigna will put his unbeaten record of 24-0(16) on the line against the more experienced Kim 21-6(18) with the winner getting a shot at Miguel Vazquez. Zappavigna 23, who resides in Sydney Australia will have home court advantage fighting at the Olympic Park Sports Centre in Homebush as part of a double header with fellow Australian Daniel Geale against Roman Karmazin in an IBF Middleweight title eliminator. Having gone pro in 2006 on the back of winning a bronze medal at the Commonwealth games Zappavigna impressively went about his work, honing his skills before Gary Shaw noticed him in 2009 and brought him to America where “Zappa” has since fought twice winning both. It promises to be a war of attrition between the hard hitters, neither who take a backward step.

Hello Lenny, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – You have the biggest fight of your career on 31 October against Ji-Hoon Kim, what are your thoughts on the fight and what do you expect from him?

Lenny Zappavigna – I think it will be a good fight because we both come to fight, but I think I will be the stronger fighter because he is a natural junior lightweight and I am a natural lightweight, but no matter what the outcome, points or knockout, I will win, no doubt about it.

Anson Wainwright – In his last fight Kim lost to Miguel Vazquez in an IBF title fight what did you think of that fight?

Lenny Zappavigna – Vazquez boxed well and smart, I think he is a good champion and be looking forward to fighting him for the title.

Anson Wainwright – For those who perhaps haven’t seen you could you descrivbe your style?

Lenny Zappavigna – I’m a boxer puncher. I can brawl if I have to or box. I’m trying to settle a little with every fight that comes along.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your team who is your manager, trainer & promoter? Also what gym do you train at in Australia & when your in America?

Lenny Zappavigna – My trainer is Tommy Mercuri. I have been with him since I was a kid and I have trained at Westside Boxing Gym ever since. My manager is Tony Lacastro, who has been a great help with my career and marketing terms. My promoter is Gary Shaw from America who also is a great help to us and has a great stable of champions and I hope to be one of them in the future.

Anson Wainwright – What were your early years like, was it tough growing up? You were born in Australia but presumably your parents are from Italy?

Lenny Zappavigna – My early years were great; my parents have been really supportive with my career and we live in the luckiest country in the world. There is no hard ship growing up in Australia. Being Italian background is fantastic. We eat the best food in the world and I am proud of my Italian heritage and I look forward to my mum’s cooking after the weigh-ins.

Anson Wainwright – How did you get into Boxing?

Lenny Zappavigna – I was a fat little kid and just wanted to lose weight when I met Tommy in the gym and he told me I had a lot of talent to pursue the sport because I would be a world champion one day and my dream came true, so I fell in love with the sport and hoped to become a multiple champion one day.

Anson Wainwright – You had a good amateur career you won bronze at the 2006 Commonwealth games, can you tell us about that and what other tournaments you won and what your final record was?

Lenny Zappavigna – I really enjoyed the Commonwealth Games, it gave me a lot of worldwide experience and I also fought overseas a lot of times and I won bronze at the Junior World Games. I also won all my national titles. My final record was 105 fights with 95 wins.

Anson Wainwright – Did you fight any fighters who are doing well in the pro’s today? If so who and how did it go?

Lenny Zappavigna – I fought Frankie Gavin in the Commonwealth Games, who went on to win gold and the world titles, but I am not sure if he has turned pro. Editors Note. He has an is currently 8-0(7).

Anson Wainwright – Who was your Boxing hero growing up & what fighters do you enjoy watching now?

Lenny Zappavigna – Mike Tyson was my hero as I was growing up. Now, I enjoy watching Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao.

Anson Wainwright – What are your thoughts on the current Lightweight division? Who do you think are the top guys at 135?

Lenny Zappavigna – It’s a great division, one of the best and of course I think I am one of the best, haha. Guys like Juan Manuel Marquez, Juan Diaz and Humberto Soto which I would love to fight for the WBC championship belt.

Anson Wainwright – Your countryman Michael Katsidis will fight Juan Manuel Marquez what are your thoughts on that fight?

Lenny Zappavigna – I think it will be a very great fight. I would really like to see Michael win the fight, for it will be great to have two Australian lightweight champions and I think he has a very good chance of winning.

Anson Wainwright – Is a fight with Katsidis possible or are you good friends? How big do you think that fight would be?

Lenny Zappavigna – No, we’ve chosen our path and he’s got his. It would be a shame to destroy two great Australian fighters like they did with Lester Ellis and Barry Michaels. Why destroy two great Australian fighters?

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for your fans?

Lenny Zappavigna – Just like to thank all my fans for supporting me after all these years, and keep supporting me because I promise all of Australia after Sunday I will become a champion and go on to unify the lightweight division.

Best Wishes Lenny, keep up the good work.

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

Special thanks to Brad Arnold for helping to arrange this interview.

Few countries give there fighters as tough an upbringing as Argentina. For years guys toil away in near obscurity, if you’re good enough you’ll make the grade, if not on to the next guy. By their very nature Argentinean fighters are hard men where only the toughest survive. One only needs to think of some of the warriors who have represented their country most notable the ultra macho Carlos Monzon who was arguably the greatest Argentinean fighter ever. Others include Light Heavyweight warrior Victor Galindez, Middleweight Juan Roldon & way down at Flyweight Pascual Perez.

More recently Jorge Castro springs to mind, he was a 20 year veteran of 143 fights. Back in the 1990’s Castro way behind on points bleeding from cuts around both eyes looking like he was at the point of being stopped, threw a devastating hook that some how turned the whole fight with John David Jackson on it’s head. It was voted in 1994 the fight of the year by The Ring magazine. It was a stoppage not to dissimilar to Diego Corrales-Jose Luis Castillo. The man was so tough that even after a motor accident he made a comeback to Prize fighting.

The Best fighter in Argentina at the moment is WBC Middleweight champion Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez, the 35 year old from a suburb of Buenos Aires who now lives and trains out of Oxnard, Ca.

He’s earnt his right to be the numero uno the hard way. He debuted back in 1997 with little amateur pedigree having not started to box until he was 20, he learnt his trade in the ring. By 2000 he had run his record to an impressive 16-0-1(6) when he fought the vastly more seasoned Antonio Margarito in Las Vegas. It was a step too far for Martinez who was stopped in the seventh. As a measure of his class when asked if he felt Margarito was using loaded gloves way back then he says ” I did not think he had his gloves loaded. He was the better fighter that night and he was better prepared than I was. I have no regrets and it was early in my career; I have become a better fighter because of it”

Since that learning curve he’s become a road warrior plying his trade in Spain in 2002 because of Economic reason’s. He also took his skills to England where he won 3 consecutive fights in 2003/04. Finally he caught the eye of someone in America, a certain Lou DiBella brought Martinez box of tricks to America in 2007 and fought him 3 times the first being a WBC Light Middleweight eliminator.

It didn’t help that Oscar De La Hoya fought Floyd Mayweather in a mega money fight meaning an unknown like Martinez had no chance of fighting the winner, even when Mayweather was victorious and handed the trinket back leaving Vernon Forrest to pick up the reigns and become 154 champ. Forrest had no wish to fight Martinez either and took on Contender winner Sergio Mora splitting two bouts.

So it wasn’t until late 2008 when Martinez became the Interim champion. Last year he found himself in the unusual position of not winning either of his fights but still his profile was raised first he was held to a draw by Kermit Cintron in a fight pretty much everyone believes he won.

The normally passive Martinez says of the Cintron fight “the ruling was an embarrassment to boxing, first to cancel my KO in the 7th round and then giving me a draw”

Then he stepped up to Middleweight and fought Paul Williams after Kelly Pavlik was forced to pull out through injury. Once again many in attendance and at home thought Martinez had done enough but he lost an agonising majority decision.

One of the judges handed in a laughable 119-110 card for Williams. Martinez’s take on that fight “It was a close fight and we both wanted a victory that night but, I believe I was the better fighter that night. How can we forget that horrible judges score card (Mr. Benoist) giving me only one round the whole entire fight, WOW!! That was crazy”

When then Middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik and Paul Williams again struggled to work out a deal for them to fight. Martinez on the strength of his Spartan showing in his two previous fights both on HBO was awarded a shot at Pavlik. When the fight started Martinez lateral movement was to much for Pavlik and Martinez opened up a sizeable lead over the first half of the fight until Pavlik re-adjusted and got himself back in the fight until a cut switched the advantage back to Martinez who closed the show and this time wasn’t to be denied.

Since then Martinez has been busy raising his profile attending the Mayweather-Mosley fight, heading to Canastota for the Hall of Fame induction’s & even travelling to Cardiff in Britain to attend the Night of Champions where he was one of the show piece champions.

Maravilla who lists Carlos Monzon as one of his favourite fighters but is too humble to want to be compared to Argentina’s finest will be back in action on 20 November when he faces Paul Williams in a highly anticipated rematch again in Atlantic City, NJ at the Boardwalk. If he can gain a measure of revenge by beating Williams his star will have ascended to such a height that he’ll be favourite to be named Fighter of the year. That’s quite a long way for a guy who didn’t even get into Boxing until he was 20.

In the talent Laden Light Welterweight division arguably the most exciting fighter is Marcos Maidana. Maidana is a force of nature who hits every inch of his 140 pounds, posts a vaunted 93% kayo ratio. “El Chino” sprang to prominence going 25-0(24) before he fought the more technically sound Andreas Kotelnik for the WBA 140 title losing a razor close split decision.

He was then selected to come to America where rising Victor Ortiz was expected to feast on his Argentinean foe. The kamikaze battle not to dissimilar to Naseem Hamed-Kevin Kelley saw both hit the canvas multiple times before Ortiz retired in the sixth round, really catapulting Maidana into the top end of the Light Welterweight division.

He has since stayed busy with two fights including one in Las Vegas where he battered previously unbeaten Victor Cayo into submission. Over the past few months Maidana has been injured forcing the cancellation of a fight with Tim Bradley. A fall fight beckons with Amir Khan on 11 December in Las Vegas on HBO.

It would be fair to expect anyone who has been a world champion for nearly 10 years and made nearly 20 defence’s to be some what well known amongst the fight fraternity even if the guy plys his trade at 112. That’s not the case with Omar Narvaez though. He has impressive numbers he’s 32-0-2(19), he’s a two weight champion making 16 defence’s of his WBO Flyweight title until he stepped up to Super Flyweight this year where he won a second crown. He’s also represented his country at two Olympics, during his amateur days.

However the problem with Narvaez is that in a division largely dominated by Asian fighters he’s struggled mercilessly to find an opponent who could bring out the most in his undoubted skills. When asked why he hadn’t fought some of the top guys he reason’s “I never received offers to fight with the best and I hope I will fight with them one day”

It was mentioned several years ago that Narveaz may meet Vic Darchinyan on Showtime however Narveaz didn’t see it that way telling 15rounds.com ” About Darchinyan I never received a serious proposal, all it was a supposed fight but it never came up to nothing.”

We can only hope that sooner rather than later Narvaez is given the chance to fight some of the top guys in and around his weight class.

Hailing from a Boxing family Lucas Matthysse 27-0(25) 1 no contest has always been involved in Boxing, his elder brother Walter actually fought twice in America against Paul Williams & Kermit Cintron without much joy.

It’s something Lucas will hope to better, he has already fought in America twice making quite a splash on the eve of De La Hoya-Mayweather in 2008 when he showed off his impressive power vaporising Ramon Duran in one round. Three months later he was invited back but this time his fight ended unsatisfactorily when Rogelio Casteneda Jr was cut and the fight was called off thus rending it a no contest.

Since then he has gone 5-0, he stopped Vivian Harris in 4 the stoppage appeared pretty quick and Matthysse initially declined a rematch but since then he has retracted that statement “I believe that I was going to knockout Vivian. I don’t have any problem in giving him the rematch”.

Having gone back over old ground obliterating Casteneda in a rematch he has been handed a the biggest fight of his career when he travels to Newark, NJ on 6 November to fight Zab Judah in an intriguing battle of two big punchers. The winner will fight Kaiser Mabuza likely in the first quarter of 2011 for the vacant IBF title.

Also worth mentioning is Sebastian Lujan at Welterweight, the 30 year old from Rosario hasn’t lost at 147 in five years is currently 35-5-2(22). He has been forced to leave his the more comfy confines of Welterweight to briefly try his hand at Light Middleweight where he lost in a title fight to Sergei Dzindziruk & Jamie Moore.

Once he realised his best work couldn’t be achieved at 154 and got back to his more natural Welterweight. He has got some good names on his record beating then unbeaten Robert Reuque KO9, Walter Matthysse KO5, Luis Castillo PTS10. You probably remember Lujan best for his spirited challenge to Antonio Margarito which was stopped after he suffered a horrific cut to his ear in 2005. Lujan was in the running for a shot at Berto but nothing came of that. He’s world ranked by WBC 6, WBA 11, IBF 10.

Luis Abregu got his big chance when he fought Tim Bradley on HBO back in July however he lost his unbeaten record but will of learnt more from that fight than any other. “El Potro” turns 28 in December and it seems he can rebound and build on the Bradley loss and come again.

Though he looks destined to be one of those fighters who is capable of beating most fighters just not the very best. I would expect him to to get back to work probably in his homeland before his American promoter the influential Gary Shaw brings him back to America. With his power 23 stoppages in 29 wins against just the Bradley reverse you never know.

He owns solid wins over Roberto Reuque KO3, since coming to America he’s not had it all his own way winning a split decision over David Estrada, a wild four round stoppage over fringe contender Irving Garcia which saw both men touch down. Prior to the Bradley fight he bested Richard Gutierrez over ten rounds, again in both men were again on the canvas.

All things considered Abregu is a very entertaining TV fighter because of his all action style, he’s equally likely to be dropped himself as he is to do it to his opponent. However anyone who has struggles with Estrada, Garcia & Gutierrez isn’t likely to become a world champion in the talent laden 147 weight class.

A pro since 1996 Luis Alberto Lazarte seemed destined to finish his career as a nearly man. He’d fought for World titles on five occasions from Strawweight up to Flyweight and always come up short.

When asked about fighting at 39 he offers “I know I am not a young but I am always in good shape and I love training, so I will keep boxing until I feel I can’t anymore” and currently he’s in the form of his life.

Back in May Lazarte’s people brought Carlos Tamara the IBF Light Flyweight champion over to Argentina. It was the last throw of the dice, surely he’d never get another shot. Low and behold the the old war horse stunned the much younger Tamara and collected the world title in a close some would say controversial manner. It’s hard not to feel Lazarte 48-9-1(18) finally had lady luck on his side having lost a split & majority decision in previous attempts.

Four of the nine loses hung on his record are because of disqualification, when questioned for the reasoning behind that he said ” The fights I lost by disqualification were because I used to get nervous very often but now I have learned that lesson”

His first defence was against Nerys Espinoza again Lazarte with new found confidence kept hold of the crown with a unanimous decision.

Recently it was announced that he will make his second defence against former champion Ulises Solis on 18 December. It would be considered despite home field advantage a huge upset if he can turn back the challenge of Solis.

“El Mosquito” is an incredibly humble fighter who despite his Boxing career works a day job as a Road Sweeper on the streets of Buenos Aires.

Interestingly for a man who shared the ring with Pongsaklek Wongjongkam & Omar Narvaez two long reigning Flyweight champions when asked about who the best fighter he has fought is he added ” I think the best one was Kermin Guardia. And in my opinion, a fight between Narvaez and Pongsaklek would be very interesting as both as great boxers but I can’t give a result”

Juan Carlos Reveco wasted little time having gone pro in April 2004 he became WBA Light Flyweight champion in a shade over 3 years. After one defence he lost to talented Brahim Asloum in what was a close fight, though we don’t like to think it, home field advantage plays a significant part. Also factor in Asloum the local star having won France first Boxing medal in 64 years at the Olympics in 2000 and you can imagine Reveco had to win and win well to keep his title.

Not perturbed he won two fights before beating granite chinned Francisco Rosas for the Interim version of the WBA 108 crown making two defences both impressively inside the distance. He was due to fight Nicaraguan Roman Gonzalez in Japan on 23 October but was forced to pull out through injury. It would seem highly likely that the fight with Gonzalez will be rescheduled when Raveco is fit & healthy.

He may be at the veteran’s stage of his career but Jorge “La Hiena” Barrios is still a tough nights work for anyone. You only need to look at his 56 fight record 50 wins, 35 KO’s, 4 loses, 1 draw & one no contest to to realise that at 34 years old on the back of a 14 year pro career that only the best beat him.

First of all he lost a disqualification to Cesar Domine way back in 1997, he quickly wrote that wrong what he stopped him in a straight rematch two months later. He never lost again until 2003 when he got his long awaited title shot losing a savage war to WBA/WBO kingpin Acelino Freitus via eleventh round KO with the fight poised on the score cards with each man up on one card and the third a draw. Both men had been down twice each in the fight.

He would reign as WBO Super Featherweight champion when he beat Mike Anchondo before making two defence’s. Barrios was to lose the title to skilled Joan Guzman in a keenly fought fight on a split decision. After two years out with only one fight Barrios then travelled to Houston to fight tough Texan Rocky Juarez who after a slow start came on strong late to force the stoppage of “La Hiena” who suffered from a vicious laceration on the side of his mouth.

It was nearly a year since Barrios last fought due to problems outside of the ring but he returned to outpoint Wilson Alcorro in October that has set up a fight with ring legend Erik Morales at 138 pounds on 18 December in Morales hometown of Tijuana.

Fernando “El Vasco” Saucedo will look to do the near impossible when he heads to Indonesia to face local hero Chris John for something called the WBA “Super” World Featherweight title. It’s not that Saucedo 29, isn’t any good it’s just when you look at his record 38-4-3(1) you realise that Saucedo who was going to have a tough time leaving Jakarta with the title anyway faces that daunting task without any sort of knock out punch.

To his credit and countless rounds of practice, 279 to be exact Saucedo has managed to perform very well winning the Argentinean Lightweight title & the South American Featherweight championship. Of late he has taken to fighting shorter distance fights presumably because he knew no matter how long the fight was scheduled for he wasn’t going to get the KO

Featherweight Jonathan “Yoni” Barros proved his metal in March when he went the distance with the explosive Yuriorkis Gamboa. It was to be the first defeat of his career from which he probably learnt more than from the previous 28 victory’s. To his credit he has fought twice since winning both taking his record to 30-1-1(17) putting him in line to face Panamanian Irving Berry on 4 December for the vacant WBA title in Barros home town of Mendoza. If he can snear the title that will surely lead to further big pay days against the divisions elite.

Further down the scale and at the beginning of there professional career’s there are a few noteworthy pugilists who will do the rounds in one of the toughest if not the toughest circuits in world Boxing until they possible graduate to world level.

Ezequiel Maderna 24, fought at the 2008 Olympics where he was Argentina’s sole reprehensive has quickly moved to 11-0(8) fighting at Light Heavyweight.

Highly thought of Welterweight Diego Chaves has been a pro for just over two years, he’s only 24, has already fought over 12 rounds & fought in America on the Maidana-Cayo card in March and boasts an impressive 15-0(12).

Southpaw Featherweight Jesus Cuellar is another that has his plaudits going 13-0(10), he turns 24 in December and is currently fighting his way through tough journeyman like 29 fight veteran Claudio Tapia 16-9-4(3) notably becoming the first person to stop Tapia. Next came Miguel Caceres 20-22-4(5) only being stopped in once previously, Cuellar won a comfortable decision though.

At Super Bantamweight Maximiliano Marquez 10-0(5) warrants a mention, though isn’t as advanced as some of the others mentioned. His next fight on the undercard of Diego Chaves 30 October though still a 6 rounder will be a marked step up when he faces off with tough as nails Diego Loto 11-18-4(2) though Loto has never been stopped.

Diego Santillan at 23 seems to be a useful puncher 9-0(8) but will be a few years off any kind of fight. Until then expect him to stay busy against the usual list of Argentina hard men whilst looking to make an impression on the money men in America that could bring him over for money fights. However fighting at Bantamweight that will be tough.

To surplant those guys the next batch of talent are still in the amateurs it may be worth keeping an eye on Fabian Maidana (I wasn’t able to find out if he was related to Marcos) he won Silver at this years World Youth championships and fights at 64Kg(Light Welterweight). Brian Castano at 69kg (Welterweight), Gumersindo Carrasco Herrera at 64Kg, at 57Kg (Featherweight) Ignacio Perrin, at 54Kg (Bantamweight) Marcos Cabral, 51 Kg (Flyweight)Fernando Martinez & Junior Zarate 48Kg (Light Flyweight).

This Sunday Daniel “The Real Deal” Geale 23-1(14) will take on Roman Karmazin in an IBF Middleweight title eliminator The Olympic Park Sports Centre, Homebush in New South Wales. It’s been 18 months since Geale 29, fought Anthony Mundine in a fight that showed even in defeat that he deserves to be mention up there with the top 160 pounder’s on the planet.

Since then Geale has won two fights to set up this fight with former Light Middleweight champion Karmazin, with the winner becoming Sebastian Sylvester’s mandatory challenger. He is also currently ranked 11 by the WBO & 6 with the Ring magazine.

Hello Daniel, welcome to 15rounds.com

Hi,

Anson Wainwright – You will be fighting Roman Karmazin in an IBF Middleweight title eliminator. What are your thoughts on that fight? What do you expect Karmazin to bring to the fight?

Daniel Geale – It is going to be a great fight, great for me to step up and mix it with these guys at the top and great for boxing fans to watch. With his style and mine, it is going to be one tought fight. Karmazin has alot of experience with the top guys so he will be trying to capitalize on that.

Anson Wainwright – In his last fight Karmazin drew with Sebastian Sylvester for Sylvester’s IBF Middleweight title. What were your thoughts on that fight?

Daniel Geale – Everyone knows how tough it is to get a decision in Germany against a German, so I say he should have won that fight but I am glad that things have turned out this way because it is a great opportunity for me.

Anson Wainwright – Who is part of Team Geale who is your manager, trainer & promoter? Also what gym do you train at?

Daniel Geale – Team Geale…… I train out of Grange Old School Boxing Gym, my trainer is Graham Shaw, my manager is Bill Treacy and my Promoter is Garrie Francisco, a great team that are working hard to get me to the top.

Anson Wainwright – To date your biggest fight was against Anthony Mundine when you lost a razor thin split decision. Looking back on that fight what are your thoughts on it now?

Daniel Geale – Looking back over the tape, I still believe that I did enough to get the decision against Mundine, it was a great fight and no matter what the outcome, it was a stepping stone for me and I am moving forward to fight the best guys in the world while Mundine is fighting easier fights, not even fighting guys in the top 20! Team Geale are onto bigger fish and he can chase me if he is “MAN” enough.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your early years growing up in Tasmania, did you have the typical hard upbringing that many boxers have?

Daniel Geale – I grew up in a tough area, I wasnt handed everything on a silver platter, my family worked hard to give me the opportunities I had. I have great parents that have always been supportive of me in all areas of my life. My love for boxing has helped me with self discipline, confidence and I believe, has kept me from making the wrong decisions as an adolescent.

Anson Wainwright – How did you first get into Boxing?

Daniel Geale – My Dad introduced me to boxing at nine years old, I had been involved in martial arts and other sports but from my very first training session I was addicted.

Anson Wainwright – You had a very good amateur career that saw you fight at the 2000 Commonwealth games winning gold and then representing Australia at the 2002 Olympics what can you tell us about that? Can you tell us what else you achieved in your amateur career? Also what was your final record?

Daniel Geale – I had a great Amateur Career……I had around 165 fights for 135 wins, I represented Australia at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games and I won a Gold Medal at the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester. I won a gold medal at the Acropolis Cup in Greece in 2001 and a bronze in 2003. I was 5 time Australian Champion and 2 time Oceana Champion.

Anson Wainwright – Who was your favourite Boxer growing up?

Daniel Geale – I dont have one in particular as I had so many as a kid. Jeff fenech, Kostya Tszyu, Mike Tyson, Roy Jones Jr, and the list goes on.

Anson Wainwright – Away from Boxing what do you like to do with your time? What are your hobbies & Interests? What other sports do you follow and what teams do you support?

Daniel Geale – At the moment I am learning to play the guitar and enjoy a round of golf in my spare time. I follow AFL, NRL and my teams are Collingwood and Wests Tigers.

Anson Wainwright – The Middleweight division has several top fighters where do you feel you fit into it? What do you think of the current champions WBC Martinez, WBA Sturm, IBF Sylvester & WBO Pirog?

Daniel Geale – At the moment I feel I am as strong and ready for anyone in the world, I am ready for my next step, after Karmazin, I want all of the above mentioned fights.

Anson Wainwright – Do you have a nickname?

Daniel Geale – The Real Deal.

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for your fans ahead of this fight?

Daniel Geale – Like my promo ad says for this fight….this IS my time and I am going to make the most of it. I am willing to take it to these guys that are the Champions and bring some Titles back to Australia and give boxing fans the fights they deserve to see.

Thanks for your time Daniel

Thank you

Best Wishes

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

In the much anticipated WBC Super Bantamweight title fight Toshiaki Nishioka retained his crown for the fifth time when he outpointed game English challenger Rendall Munroe at the Kokugikan, Tokyo in Japan. Nishioka started fast and dominated the first 3 rounds though to his credit Munroe dug in and pressured the champion, he seemed to break through with an impressive fourth round. It looked as though the tide was turning in the fifth when Munroe again started out well, until he walked into a big left hand that landed high on Munroe’s head. The Englishman covered up and though shaken wasn’t in danger of going down. From then on Nishioka was just a shade busier and more active especially with bodyshots which landed consistantly. One of those bodyshots landed in the solar plexus of the brave Leicester bin man causing him to go backwards during the seventh. In the championship rounds Nishioka again showed his edge in power stunning the challenger.

When all was said and done all three judges James Jen-Kin, David Sutherland, Alejandro Rochin Mapula scored identically 119-109. It was a thoroughly impressive performance by the 34 year old Japanese champion who reaffirmed himself as the number one 122 champion in the world. The humble challenger will head home and back to his day job as a bin man. He showed enough to prove he can come again with many of the rounds closer than the scores suggest.

On the undercard Roman “El Chocolatito” Gonzalez 27-0(23) proved he can carry his power up to Light Flyweight when he stopped Francisco Rosas 21-8-2(12) in the second round to win the Interim WBA 108 title. It was a rematch from 18 months ago when Gonzalez barely edged Rosas in Mexico. This time Gonzalez wasn’t to have nearly as tough a time dropping a stunned Rosas three times to gain a very impressive win at 1.38 of the second. The loss was the first inside the distance loss for Rosas.

Also on the card Jorge “El Nino De Oro” Linares 30-1(19) forced tough veteran Jesus “The Matador” Chavez 44-8(30) to retire on his stool before the fifth round. Linares had controlled the action behind his jab and fired combination’s picking apart Chavez. He seems to of recovered his confidence from the loss a year ago to Juan Carlos Salgado and will now be primed for another title shot either at Super Featherweight or Lightweight. For this fight Linares weighed 133 the same as Chavez.

Current Japanese Light Welterweight champion Yoshihiro Kamegai improved his unbeaten record to 17-0(15) stopping Nicaraguan former Lightweight World champion Jose Alfaro at 2.36 of the sixth round.

In Bantamweight action Shinsuke Yamanaka 13-0-2(9) forced Mexican Jose Silveira 11-3(4) to retire at 3.00 of the ninth. Yamanaka is the current Japanese Bantamweight champion

On the bumper Zab Judah-Lucas Matthysse card in Newark, NJ local Michael “The Artist” Perez 9-0-1(4) makes his fourth appearance of the year in a Lightweight battle with experienced Colombian Hevinson Herrera 14-6-1(9). Perez 20, will be looking to add another victory in his march to the top.

Hello Mikey, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – You have a fight with Veteran Hevinson Herrera. What can you tell us about this fight and what do you expect from Reyes?

Mikey Perez – I’m expecting a explosive fight

Anson Wainwright – You’ve been a pro for two years now. How have you found it so far?

Mikey Perez – I found the pro’s to be more comfortable for me.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your amateur career, what titles you won and what your final record was?

Mikey Perez – I won the 2003 Silver gloves nationals and the 2008 golden gloves nationals, and my record was 112-10.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your team, who is your manager, trainer, promoter & what gym do you regularly train at?

Mikey Perez – My manager is Jesus Perez my father; My trainer is Aroz Gist, who everybody calls Terrific. I’m signed to Golden Boy Promotions and train at Global Boxing.

Anson Wainwright – You’ve already been on a couple of big cards including Maidana-Ortiz & Mayweather-Marquez. What can you tell us about those experiences?

Mikey Perez – Being on such big cards has been a blessing and all there doing is preparing me for the future.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about how you first got into Boxing?

Mikey Perez – My father put me in boxing as a birthday present at the age of seven and I just fell in love with the sport.

Anson Wainwright – What are your hobbies and Interests away from Boxing?

Mikey Perez – My hobbies and interest away from boxing is school; I’m currently going to Essex County College and majoring in physical therapy.

Anson Wainwright – What are your goals in Boxing?

Mikey Perez – My goals in boxing is to make history, keep the sport alive and become an undisputed world champ.

Thanks for your time.

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

The Boxing world scours Mexico for the next great Mexican to bestow him as the Numero Uno. That honour has been passed on through generations, currently that honour looks like the next holder of the mythical crown could be champion in waiting Saul “Canelo” Alvarez however another name not as well known but equally talented is Carlos Cuadras. He sprang to prominence as an amateur when he won Gold at the 2007 Pan American games. Now just 22, the Super Flyweight hopes to have a similar impact on the world scene amongst the pro’s currently he’s 17-0(15) and training for his next fight in November when he will be making his third appearance in Japan.

Hello Carlos, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – You won a split decision over 8 rounds against Alberto Chuc a couple of fights ago. That would appear a closer fight that you’d of liked going into it. What can you tell us about that fight?

Carlos Cuadras – It was a hard bout and I lacked preparation, also I faced a tough rival who has even fought in the Featherweight division; I only trained for two weeks after the previous fight.

Anson Wainwright – Do you know when we can expect to see you in the ring next and where it may take place & against who?

Carlos Cuadras – On November 26th, in Japan; my rival is to be announced.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your team, who is your manager, trainer & promoter? What gym do you regularly train at in Mexico City & then in Japan when your there?

Carlos Cuadras – My manager is my father Rosario Cuadras, I have trained with Tiburcio Garcia and Jose Luis Bueno. My promoter is Teiken Promotions. When I am in Mexico I train in my own gym or at Bueno´s Gym. When I am in Japan I train at Sendai Tanaka.

Anson Wainwright – You have fought twice in Japan as a pro, what can you tell us about that experience?

Carlos Cuadras – Those were good bouts against good fighters; thank God I won. I felt great. People do not know me but like me.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about when you were young and growing up and how you became interested and then involved in Boxing?

Carlos Cuadras – I was very restless, hyperactive and mischievous. I would frequently get into fights in Junior High School. Later I started the discipline of boxing.

Anson Wainwright – You had an impressive amateur career in which you won the Pan American games in 2007 at Bantamweight. Can you tell us about that and your amateur career, what other tournaments you won, fighters who have since gone pro that you fought in the amateur’s and how they fights went & what your record was?

Carlos Cuadras – I also took part in the Junior Olympics, I was the champion and received the award to the best fighter. I faced Juan “Churritos” Hernandez and Arturo Santos (he participated in the Olympic Games), both of whom are professional now. My amateur record is of around 160 fights with only ten losses.

Anson Wainwright – You were a Bantamweight in the amateur’s as a pro you have fought around 115 to 118 which division are you targeting for a title shot?

Carlos Cuadras – First Super Fly, but perhaps later, in the Bantam or Super Bantamweight division.

Anson Wainwright – Fernando Montiel stopped Hozumi Hasegawa in Japan that must of been strange for you because presumably you know Hasegawa as a Teikken stablemate and Montiel as a Mexican. What are your feelings on that and the fight?

Carlos Cuadras – Hasegawa got distracted and Montiel defeated him. I would root for both, as Hasegawa is my team-mate and Montiel is Mexican, but I was happy that Montiel won.

Anson Wainwright – What do you like to do away from Boxing to relax & what are your Hobbies?

Carlos Cuadras – Playing X-Box, watching movies and dating young ladies.

Anson Wainwright – What is your Nickname?

Carlos Cuadras – “The Prince”.

Anson Wainwright – What are your goals in Boxing?

Carlos Cuadras – To become a world champion in one or many weight divisions. To retire being undefeated.

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have anything you like to add?

Carlos Cuadras – Just that I am training very hard, and that it is very nice to have a Promoter like Mr. Honda who has always supported me.

Thanks for your time Carlos, keep up the good work.

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

On Tuesday 12 October Rendell Munroe 21-1(9) left Britain to head for Japan in a bid for Toshiaki Nishioka’s WBC Super Bantamweight crown. The fight takes place on Sunday 24 October in the Japanese capital Tokyo. Munroe 30, did what not every fighter can say they do these days, he earnt his title shot by fighting the best available fighters. In March 2008 Munroe beat then unbeaten Kiko Martinez for the European title making five defence’s along the way repeating his win over Martinez and outpointing teak tough Italian Simone Maludrottu who himself fought for a world title in Japan though down at Bantamweight where he lost a decision to Nishioka’s stablemate Hozumi Hasegawa. In his one fight this year Munroe stopped Mexican Victor Terrazas in an eliminator. He hopes to return from “The Land of the Rising Sun” having conquered Nishioka though maintains it wont change him and he’ll continue his day job working as a rubbish man. Here’s what the humble Midlander had to say.

Hello Rendell, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – You will be challenging for the WBC Super Bantamweight title in Japan on 24 October against Toshiaki Nishioka. What are your thoughts on thi s fight & how what do you think of him as a fighter?

Rendell Munroe – My thoughts are I’m going there to become the champion, obviously he’s a champion himself and I respect him. We’re in there for the same thing. Two good fighters in there and we’re both fighting to be the champion of the world, he defending it and I’m gonna win it.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us a little about your training for this fight? When do you head off to Japan? Are you expecting many fans to travel?

Rendell Munroe – Yeah, everything has gone well. I follow what Jason (Shinfield) says I need to do. Everything is going well everything is perfect. I’ve been in camp for 8 weeks, I went to Portugal for a week to train. They reckon over a hundred fans are coming over which is good.

Anson Wainwright – Do you think you’ll have to put in your best performance to date to win the title away from home in Japan?

Rendell Munroe – Yeah I would say. Every time I step in the ring I look to put on my best performance. I’m going in there to win. Every time I prove I can be that bit better.

Anson Wainwright – If you are able to win the title in Japan what do you think this would mean to you and your family? How would it change your life?

Rendell Munroe – It’s not if I’m able to it’s when I win the title in Japan. That’s the main thing, Obviously it’ll mean a lot to me, it’s my dream of becoming a world champion, it’s what I want to do. So for my family it’s a good thing for them the same. My missus and my two kids can’t come out there but they’ll support me and give me credit when I get home. It might do (Change his life) but I’ll still go to work and be the same Rendell Munroe.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your team, who is your manager, trainer & promoter? Also what gym do you use to get ready for upcoming fights?

Rendell Munroe – My manager is Mike Shinfield and my coach is Jason Shinfield who’s his son from the same area and my promoter Frank Maloney obviously a lot of people know his name from managing Lennox Lewis. I use the gym in Summercote which belongs to the Shinfield’s.

Anson Wainwright – Outside of the ring your known as a very humble guy who still works a day job as a Bin man, can you tell us a bit about that and how you manage to train & fight whilst also working a day job?

Rendell Munroe – Just work isn’t it like everyone else, I go to the gym when I’ve finished work. I would say a big thanks to work for giving me the time off to train. They give me time off when I have a fight coming up so I can dedicate 100% of my time. Apart from that I go to work like an every day man.

Anson Wainwright – Will that change when you win the World title?

Rendell Munroe – No no, I’m glad they gave me the time off. My intention is to win the world title and go back to work.

Anson Wainwright – Though you obviously have a hectic life between your job & Boxing what do you like to do to relax away from Boxing?

Rendell Munroe – I like to play a bit of football (Soccer) with my friends. My eldest boy plays for Leicester football team so I go and watch him as well, he’s in the academy. I relax and chill with my family go to the park and things like that.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us a bit about your younger days and how they took you into Boxing?

Rendell Munroe – I first got into Boxing through an argument with my mum, I went to the gym with my uncle and it went from there.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your amateur career. What titles did you win and what was your final record?

Rendell Munroe – I think I had 40 fights I won about 30. But as an amateur it was just a hobby, something to do. It wasn’t until the later years that people started to say you have potential to go far so give it a proper shot and I have done and that’s where I am now.

Anson Wainwright – You started out your pro career and fought at Featherweight and on occasion even higher. How easily do you make the weight?

Rendell Munroe – No no no, I never started out at Featherweight no one would fight me at Super Bantamweight I had to fight at Featherweight. I make the weight easy, I’m 2 weeks out now and I’m already at the weight. The weight isn’t a problem, it’s not an issue.

Anson Wainwright – The Super Bantamweight division has undergo a transformation in the last year with JuanMa Lopez, Isreal Vazquez & Rafeal Marquez moving to 126. How do you see things? Who do you view as the top guy at 122?

Rendell Munroe – I don’t really look to much into it, I’m one of those fighters who concentrates on myself and what I’m doing I don’t really start looking at the weight division and start thinking. If my teams say who I’m fighting next and I concentrate on myself.

Anson Wainwright – What did you think of your stablemate Jason Booth’s fight for a world title against IBF Champion Steve Molitor?

Rendell Munroe – Yeah he aint in the stable anymore. It was a good fight he (Booth) had the ability to beat him (Molitor) with the skill but the size might be a factor for him which it was but like I say no disrespect to the guy gave it his best shot and he did look good for the first half of the fight then the size and strength showed a bit more for Steve Molitor. It went the way I said it would

Anson Wainwright – Does it bother you that Booth got his fight at home whereas you have to travel to Japan for your world title fight?

Rendell Munroe – No I don’t deal with any negativity, I just do what I’ve got to do. At the end of the day it goes how it goes I let everyone do there thing we’re doing ours and it’s working so keep it that way.

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for your fans in Britain who loyally support you?

Rendell Munroe – Big thanks for the 100% support I’m looking to make England proud and become a world champion on the 24 October.

Thanks for your time Rendall, keep up the good work.

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

Several years ago A.J “Bazooka” Banal was widely touted as one of the top young fighters coming through. After being a pro for 3 years Banal was thrust into a fight with Rafael Concepcion for the Vacant Interim WBA Super Flyweight title, it proved a bridge to far as the more battle tested Concepcion ground out a tenth round stoppage. It was a tough defeat to take but to his credit Banal still only 21 took some time off moved up to Bantamweight and has reeled off 5 straight wins with all but one of them being inside the distance. Most recently Banal now 22-1-1(18) showed that the loss hadn’t diminished his fans support when an incredible 30,000 turned up to see him stop Big Yoo in five. With that win he has been catapulted into a fight with former world champion Luis Alberto Perez which takes place in the opulent splendour of the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel, Cebu. Banal is currently ranked WBC 11#, WBA 4#, IBF 3# & WBO 3# at Bantamweight.

Hello AJ, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – You have a tough fight coming up at the end of October when you face former World champion Luis Alberto Perez. What are your thoughts on that fight?

A.J Banal – I think it will be a great fight because Luis Perez is a former world champion and he is a very good fighter as well. It will be a great fight and I hope a lot of people will support and watch our fight live.

Anson Wainwright – In your last fight you beat Big Yoo when you stopped him in five. What can you tell us about that fight? Also how happy were you with that performance?

A.J Banal – It was a great give and take fight with Big Yoo and he is a great fighter. My performance was okay. What made me happy was to see and please the 30,000 that came to watch our fight. It made the win sweeter. Many thank you’s to all that supported us.

Anson Wainwright – That’s a fantastic support. What can you tell us about fighting in front of so many fans was like?

A.J Banal – The experience was overwhelming. It was amazing. I was just so ecstatic after the win knowing that I did not disappoint everybody who came and supported me that night.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your team, who is your manager, trainer & promoter? Also what gym do you use regular?

A.J Banal – My manager is Michael Aldeguer who also happens to be the President of ALA Promotions. My trainer is Edmund Villamor and I fight under ALA Promotions. One very important person in my life is Mr. Antonio Aldeguer who I consider my second father. He has guided me not just in boxing but in life as well. I have been training under his wing since I was 9 years of age.

Anson Wainwright – The ALA gym is well know through out the world what can you tell us from your first hand experience of it? What other fighters train there?

A.J Banal – ALA Gym is my home and for me is the greatest gym in the world. I started training there since I was 9 years old. A lot of world class boxers train there like World Champ Donnie Nietes, Milan Melindo, Boom Boom Bautista, Michael Domingo and Mark Melligen to name a few. It is where boxing greats Gerry Penalosa, Rodel Mayol, Malcolm Tuñacao and Edito Villamor also trained.

Anson Wainwright – Your last few fights have been at Bantamweight whereas the Perez fight will be at Catchweight 120. Are you looking to stay at Bantamweight or are you moving up to Super Bantamweight? Also who are you targeting for a title shot?

A.J Banal – I am staying at bantamweight and i feel comfortable here. I feel I still have a lot to learn and in the future maybe challenge Fernando Montiel or the WBA Champion.

Anson Wainwright – It feels like you’ve been around for years already and your not 22 till December. You’ve been a pro for just over five years now, how happy are you with how your career has gone so far? What would you like to achieve in the coming years?

A.J Banal – I am happy with my career and I feel I still have a lot coming for me. My ultimate goal like every boxers dream is to become a great World Champion.

Anson Wainwright – You lost when you faced Rafael Concepcion a couple of years ago, looking back do you think that fight was a little soon for you?

A.J Banal – I don’t think it was too soon. We had a game plan but I failed to execute. I have learned a lot after that fight.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your early years growing up in Bukidnon? Were things tough as they are for many boxers or did you have a good childhood?

A.J Banal – I was only born there but grew up in Cebu. It was tough growing up in downtown Cebu with the gangs and all around. Good thing I got into boxing that taught me a lot especially discipline.

Anson Wainwright – What are your thoughts on what Manny Pacquiao has achieved and what it means to your country?

A.J Banal – Manny Pacquiao brought a lot of pride and honor to our country and opened the gates of other Filipino boxers to fight abroad.

Anson Wainwright – When your not Boxing what do you like to do with your time? What are your Interests?

A.J Banal – I just love to relax and play games on my laptop and hang out with my friends during our free time.

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for your fans around the World & your people in The Philippines?

A.J Banal – I would like to thank God for everything and thank all the boxing fans who have supported me with their prayers. I can only hope they will continue that support not only to me but all other Filipino boxers around. Thank you to all once again.

Thanks for your time A.J, keep up the good work.

Thank you Sir.

Anson Wainwright