LAS VEGAS – The scale might as well have been a stage. The weigh-in played out as though it had been written and rehearsed. It was a non-event. The fight doesn’t figure to be.

Amir Khan and Zab Judah each weighed 140 pounds – the junior-welterweight limit, posed like body-builders and smiled politely at each other Friday in front of a quiet crowd of about 300 at Mandalay Bay.

Unscripted drama is supposed to supplant the predictable Saturday in the Khan-Judah clash for two pieces of the junior-welterweight title, also at Mandalay Bay, in an HBO-televised bout. There are no guarantees. Never are.

But talk suggests that a dramatic twist is possible. It’s up to Judah (41-6, 28 KOs), who is at crossroads that includes only two paths. Win, and he is on the road to a rebirth. Lose, and his career is on the exit ramp. When the fight was announced in June, it looked as if Judah was already hurtling down the ramp to nowhere. But his intriguing talent, quick hands and fast feet, is still there, which means he still has a real chance.

One scenario has Judah, the International Boxing Federation’s champion, aggressive early in search of the suspected weakness in Khan’s chin. By the middle rounds, a swift left uppercut might find it for an upset of Khan (25-1, 17 KOs) in a stunning stoppage.

Here’s one reason: Judah is more capable of setting up a precise punch than Marcos Maidana, whose wild whirlwind of punches lacked tactical design, yet were enough to almost stop Khan in a memorable 10th round last December. Here’s another: Khan looked vulnerable to a left uppercut in his last outing, a decision over Paul McCloskey, who lacked the power to do any real damage.

That might be Judah’s best, perhaps only chance if there is anything to believe in a second scenario that circulated Friday during the formal weigh-in. If the fight goes into the later rounds, the guess is that Khan, the World Boxing Associations champ, will survive and prevail.

Here’s one reason: Judah is known for meltdowns. The longer the fight goes, the better the chance at another one. Here’s another: Khan’s mastery of tactical skill means he is built for the long haul, which means his best chances rest between the eighth and 12th rounds.

Rest of the weigh-in for an eight-fight card scheduled to begin at 2:30 p.m. (PST):

10-round middleweight fight: Peter Quillin (24-0, 18 KOs) of Brooklyn, NY, 161 pounds; Jason Lehoullier (21-5-1, 8 KOs) of Dover, NH, 161 pounds.

Eight-round featherweight: Gary Russell (16-0, 10 KOs) of Capitol Heights, MD, 126 pounds; Eric Estrada (9-1, 3 KOs) of Chicago, 128.

Six-round heavyweight: Bryant Jennings (8-0, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia, 221; Theron Johnson (5-5, 1 KOs) of Chicago, 231.

Eight-round middleweight: James Kirkland (28-1, 25 KOs) of Austin, TX, 157.5; Alexis Hloros (15-3-2, 11 KOs), Mt. Clemens, MI, 157.5.

Eight-round junior-lightweight: Ronny Rios (14-0, 6 KOs) of Santa Ana, CA, 129; Noe Lopez (8-8, 5 KOs) of Mexico, 130.

Six-round super-middleweight: Josiah Judah, (9-1-1, 2 KOs) of Brooklyn, NY, 163; Rafal Jastrzebski (4-6-1, 1 KO) of Poland, 166.

Six-round lightweight: Jamie Kavanaugh (7-0, 3 KOs) of Hollywood, CA, 135.5; Marcos Herrera (6-5-1, 2 KOs) Arvada, CO, 135.5.

Since discovering His Lord and Savior Jesus Christ just a few years ago, Zab Judah has undergone some monumental changes both in and outside the ring.

Since finding Christ, it’s almost as if Judah’s had a another man in the ring fighting alongside him, or a fourth man in his corner — perhaps he was an ex-carpenter.

Things have seemed to have gone just right for Judah since the beginning of his resurrection.

In a way, Zab Judah is the R. A. Dickey of boxing. That is to say, like an old MLB pitcher who lost his stuff, Judah, like Dickey, has had to reinvent himself in order to resurrect his careers. Judah’s by looking in the mirror and becoming a more mature human being (as well as a re-dedicating himself to his craft); and Dickey by learning how to throw a nasty knuckleball.

Both are great stories. Both are above average talent. But both aren’t going to make the All-Star Team.

There are many people, including many members of the media, who love Judah in this fight. Don’t count me amongst them.

Sure it’s a great story — the man who hit rock bottom with a loss to Carlos Baldomir reinvents his entire career to reign supreme in one of boxing’s deepest divisions. It would be remarkable. I just don’t see it happening.

Here’s why.

I sat ringside for Judah’s fight against Lucas Matthysse. I had Matthysse winning the fight by one point. The judge’s disagreed, Judah walked away with the win. No arguments from me, it was a close fight.

In his next fight against Kaizer Mabuza, Judah unleashed all hell on his South African counterpart in round seven and scored a TKO victory. That seventh round came after some really shaky early rounds. Heading into the seventh round, I had Judah losing that fight as well.

Had him losing against Matthyse, losing against Mabuza before he righted the ship in the seventh.

On Saturday night, Amir Khan certainly won’t start as late as Matthysse (just remember that crippling body shot he delivered to Chino Maidana in the first stanza of their twelve round brawl). Khan will use his blazing hand speed to overwhelm Judah, much like he did Paulie Malignaggi. I guess what remains to be seen is if Khan fade late again like he did against the aforementioned Maidana.

If so, maybe Judah catches Khan being sloppy, but I doubt it. Under the guidance of Coach Roach, I don’t think Khan makes the same mistake twice. Once he establishes an early lead on the scorecards, my guess is Khan rides his bike to the win. He doesn’t want a Maidana round 10 all over again.

While I expect Khan to win big, I’m am hoping Judah lands that signature left uppercut square on Khan’s jaw. Let see if it really is made of glass.

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Just for fun, Las Vegas thinks Tomasz Adamek has a better shot at beating Vitali Klitschko than Zab Judah does of defeating Amir Khan on Saturday. Tomasz Adamek is +300 against Dr. Iron First, while Judah is an even bigger underdog against Khan at +350.

Like Austin Powers, I also like to live dangerously, so I’m going to stay on “5” — I’ll take the favorite, I’m going chalk…I’m laying the points.

Kyle Kinder can be reached via Twitter @KyleKinder.

Two anticipated undercard bouts that were tabbed for the July 23rd show that will features a 140 lb unification bout between Amir Khan and Zab Judah are off the card according to Dan Rafael of espn.com

The welterweight bout between Joel Julio and Antowne Smith has been called off for a second time due to a family emergency that Julio has to attend to and the Victor Cayo – Lamont Peterson bout has hit major stumbling blocks concerning contractual language.

The Peterson-Cayo fight, which will determine a mandatory challenger for the winner of the Khan-Judah bout, will now head to an IBF purse bid on July 5, Warriors Boxing promoter Leon Margules told ESPN.com on Wednesday.

Margules, who promotes Cayo, and Golden Boy had reached an agreement on the fight to take place July 23 rather than go to a purse bid.

“But Golden Boy came back to me and wanted to be my partner on Cayo if he won and I said OK, for a couple of fights,” Margules said. “We would co-promote him. Then the documents came back giving them control of my fighter and they wouldn’t agree to a full 50-50 promotion. They came to me in the first place, so if they didn’t want to agree to 50-50, no deal. When I told them that, they said they are passing on the fight. So now it goes back to a purse bid.

“We didn’t pull out of the fight, we pulled out of the deal. When I insisted on a 50-50 deal on the options they wanted to control the fighter during the option period and have final say on my fighter. I said no. If it’s a true 50-50 deal we both have to agree, not them having the tie-breaker.”

The Julio -Smith fight was scrapped again after Julio’s mother and sister were injured in an auto accident in their native Colombia over the weekend.

“I guess this fight is not meant to be,” said Jolene Mizzone, matchmaker for Main Events, Julio’s promoter.

Mizzone said Julio’s mother had broken ribs and that his sister also was injured.

“But he had to go down there to take care of them,” Mizzone said. “He flew down there right away to take care of them. I was giving it a couple of days to see if he was coming back up but he’s not coming back yet. He’s the only down there to care of them, so the fight is not happening.”

Dan Rafael of espn.com is reporting that WBA 140 lb champion Amir Khan will take on IBF beltholder Zab Judah in a unification bout that will take place July 23rd in Las Vegas.

Richard Schaefer, Khan’s promoter of Golden Boy Promotions offered the fight to resurgent former three-division champion Erik Morales, who works with Golden Boy, but he rejected the fight. That left Judah, a big name and owner of a world title, as the obvious choice. “We’ve agreed on the terms and the contracts are being drawn,” said Judah’s promoter Kathy Duva

“I told Zab I’d rather just get the promotion going and get him in the gym and we’ll make money at the site in Las Vegas if we promote it well,” Duva said. “Zab agreed. At some point you stop quibbling over a couple of points. Zab will make money when he beats this guy. That’s where the upside is. They each have a world title, but the thing Khan has that Zab doesn’t is a multi-fight agreement with HBO. That’s where his strength comes from. And when Zab beats him, HBO will be seeking out Zab Judah for a multi-fight contract. He’ll be the man at that point.”

“I got what I wanted, so I am happy. Now it’s time to go work,” said Judah, who was on his way to the gym for a training session. “I’ve been praying on this fight. My goal is to be undisputed champion at two weights. I did it at 147 and I’m gonna do it at 140 starting with Amir Khan. I’m gonna work hard. I’m very experienced, so whichever way he brings the fight I can deal with it and take it from him.

“I know Amir wanted the Bradley fight, but who wouldn’t? Bradley can’t break an egg. A fight with ‘Super’ Judah is not a fight Amir wanted. Don’t let him lie to you.”

“Zab’s a good fighter. He’s strong, he’s fit. All the stuff on Twitter is fun, but we’re both professionals. It’s just spicing things up,” Khan told ESPN.com a couple of days before the deal was agreed to. “He was undisputed champion at 147 and now he’s a champion at 140. … If Bradley don’t want me, I’m happy to take Judah on and beat him.”

“You see Bradley and Morales turning down this fight with Khan and, at some point, you just say, ‘OK, thank you.’ Zab is very excited to get the fight. So is Whitaker,” Duva said. “This leads Zab to a very nice position in the fall where he’s got major fights and nothing but major fights when he wins. We’re all very excited about it. We believed since he came back to junior welterweight that he could beat everyone in the division. He’s already taken out Matthysse and Mabuza and now it’s Khan.”

Said Judah, “My trainer, Pernell Whitaker, will have a great game plan for this fight. I knew this fight was coming and I’ve been preparing myself. I have already been training. I wish we could do a press conference tomorrow so I could take off my shirt and show everybody how ready I am already.”

“Freddie Roach against Pernell Whitaker, that’s a helluva trainer matchup,” Duva said. “It will be really interesting to watch them go head to head and try to outdo the other guy’s game plan.”

Golden Boy and Main Events will share the undercard and Duva said she intends to put welterweight contender Joel “Love Child” Julio (37-4, 31 KOs) on the card in one of her company’s fights. Julio scored a lopsided decision win against Anges Adjaho on ESPN2’s “Friday Night Fights” on May 20.

“Our plan is to put him on the card,” she said. “We’re looking for somebody interesting for him to fight. Maybe we can match him with one of Golden Boy’s fighters.”

The first six round didint go so well, but Zab Judah scored a emphatic seventh round stoppage over Kaizer Mabuza to win the vacant IBF jr. Welterweight championship an the AmeraHealth Center inside the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey

The fight started with both jabbing and by the simple fact that Judah was able to score with left hand, he took round one. Round two started off well for Judah as he landed two good body punches that sandwiched a straight left. Mabuza could have stolen the round as he landed five solid body punches over two flurries. Mabuza did well over the first two plus minutes of round three as he continued to pressure Judah and flurry. Judah landed a good straight left at the bell. In round four, Mabuza landed a couple nice right and and a third bucked Judah to the point where his glove scraped the canvas and referee Sammy Viruet ruled a knockdown that was protested outwardly by Judah. That may have awoken Judah as he came out in round five and landed some good shots with both hands and didint get backed up as much as he did in the previous four frames. Mabuza had a big round six that was highlighted by a big right that rocked and hurt Judah on the ropes.

In round seven, Judah landed a deviating straight left that slumped Mabuza between the second and third rop and was ruled a knockdown. Mabuza was severely hurt and Judah jumped on him and landed five drilling punches and the was correctly stopped by Viruet at fifty-nine seconds of round seven

Judah, 138 lbs of Brooklyn is now a four-time world champion with a record of 41-6 with twenty-eight knockouts. Mabuza, 138 lbs of Johannesburg, South Africa is now 23-7-3

In a battle of southpaws, Tarvis Simms scored an eight round unanimous decision in a middleweight tussle.

It was a workmanlike effort for Simms, who did well with all of his punches as he evenly divided up head and body shots. Mackey was tough as he he got in some good body work of his own and the two even exchanged at various times in the bout. Simms looked like he rocked Mackey on several occasions but never had him in serious trouble. Simms’ work showed as in round six Macket began to bleed from the mouth.

Simms, 158 lbs of Norwalk, CT won by scores of 80-72;79-73 and 78-74 to raise his mark to 27-1-1. Mackey, 158 lbs of Washington, DC is now 13-6-2.

Jose Peralta scored a first round stoppage over Clifford McPherson in a scheduled six round Welterweight bout.

McPherson wasnt hit when he dropped to the canvas with a injured right hand. The pain was sever that McPherson was riding in pain on the pain and the bout was stopped.

Peralta, 146 lbs of Jersey City, NJ is now 5-1 with three knockouts. McPherson, 147 1/2 lbs of Cleveland is now 2-4-1.

Shemuel Pegan made short work of Marcos Garcia by scoring a first round stoppage in their four round Jr. Welterweight bout.

Pegan trapped Garcia in the corner and landed twenty unanswered blows until the bout was stopped 1:33 into the bout.

Pegan, 137 lbs of Brooklyn is now 2-0 with one knockout. Garcia, 133 lbs of Camden, NJ is 0-4

Popular Welterweight Vinny O’Brien made a successful pro debut as David Navarro was unable to continue at the end of round three of a scheduled four round bout.

O’Brien, 147 lbs of East Hanover, NJ is 1-0 with one knockout. Navarro, 150 lbs of Philadelphia is 0-2

Zab Judah’s brother, Chris Crosby scored a four round split decision over Greg Hackett in a Jr. Middleweight bout.

Scores were 40-36; 39-37 for Crosby, 150 lbs of Brooklyn who is now 6-1. Hackett, 156 lbs of Philadelphia is 2-6.

On Saturday, March 5, at the AmeriHealth Pavillion at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, Brooklyn’s Zab Judah will clash with South Africa’s Kaizer Mabuza for Mabuza’s IBF junior welterweight title.

A final press conference was held midday Wednesday at the Brick City Bar & Grill in Newark, New Jersey, where Judah and Mabuza spoke their final thoughts before heading into this weekend’s bout.

“I appreciate everything this man has done,” Judah said, acknowledging Mabuza’s gritty road to a title. “But now is not his time, not on Saturday night.”

Over the years, whether it is deserved or not, Judah has gained a reputation of fading late in fights. This time, however, with legendary boxer Pernell “Sweat Pea” Whitaker in his corner, Judah says stamina won’t be an issue.

“I prepared myself for twelve rounds — I prepared myself 100%,” he said.

While Whitaker refused to comment on Team Judah’s game-plan for Saturday night, he did comment on his experience working with “Super” Judah.

“Everything I ask him to do, [he does it and] he does a little more,” Whitaker said. “[On fight night] If he does everything I ask him to do, he’ll win the fight.”

He went on, “Whatever Zab used to do in the past is in the past and now he has a new direction, a great direction. He’s one of boxing’s best so [on Saturday] I expect to see that.”

To that point, Judah agrees; “We prepared ourselves well for this opportunity. On Saturday night, you will see a 5-time champion of the world once again.”

While Team Judah is confident that Zab’s hand will be the one raised at the conclusion of the bout, Mabuza didn’t travel across the Atlantic to fork over his hard-earned gold to Judah.

In fact, the last time he made the trek overseas to New Jersey he demolished heavy-favorite, Kendall Holt, inside six rounds.

“I’m glad to be back in America,” Mabuza said. “It’s an honor for me to fight a person like Zab Judah.”

He continued, “I think he had his time, he’s a former world champion. I think it is my time because I’m still hungry for success. I promise him, when I take the ring I change — I become a new man. I’m hungry for success so you have to expect that there will be fireworks.”

The tough South African will be looking to extend his eight fight win streak and retain his titles on Saturday night, while Judah looks to re-claim the IBF junior welterweight title.

As they say, styles make fights, and all indications with regards to these two fighter’s is that Mabuza is right when he says that on Saturday night, “there will be fireworks.”

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The fight is being distributed by Integrated Sports PPV for a price of $29.95. It can also be purchased on UStream.tv for the same price.

The fight promoted by Main Events and Super Judah Promotions will take place on March 5th at Prudential Center’s AmeriHealth Pavillion in Newark, New Jersey. Doors open at 7:30pm. The first fight is at 8:00pm. Tickets are priced at $253, Ringside, $103 Reserved floor seating, $88 general admission in bleachers, and $53 general admission standing room only. Tickets are available at the Prudential Center Box Office by calling TicketMaster at 800-745-3000 or you can purchase them at www.PruCenter.com.

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

For Zab Judah, Saturday night was supposed to showcase to the world that he had regained championship form; it was supposed to be a night that stamped Judah as a legitimate contender in boxing’s deepest division. But as his fight with Lucas Matthysse entered its latter stages, it was clear that “Super” Judah was going to have to grind this one out — not only for a win, but for his relevancy in the sport.

The Brooklyn native didn’t look as sharp as in his two past fights with Ubaldo Hernandez and Jose Armando Santa Cruz, fights that led many to believe there was a new, old Zab Judah on the boxing scene. Although racking up 10 point rounds early, mostly behind effective jab-work, Judah failed to find the same rhythm that he found in his recent bouts.

He had a hard time uncovering and creating openings that would allow him to throw the power punches many at ringside thought would end the fight in the mid to late rounds. In fact, Judah ended up throwing just 138 power punches to his counterpart’s 418.

For much of the fight, Zab kept his left-arm coiled and tucked at his side, waiting patiently for the right time to throw his signature left uppercut. Those times were few and far between, as “Super” Judah was left with no other choice but to continue scoring with snapping jabs.

Perhaps he was thrown off by the fact that Matthysse was actually boxing him, as opposed to looking for the fistic home run. Although Judah’s Argentinian counterpart threw plenty of ill-intentioned straight rights at him, many believed that would be the only thing Matthysse was going to do, throw punches in bunches and try to stop Zab. That wasn’t the case, however, as Matthyse moved around the ring, content with landing crackling body punches to Judah’s midsection whenever the opportunity presented itself.

If Judah was a bit surprised by Matthysse’s strategy, credit Gabriel Sarmiento for that. Sarmiento, who serves as the primary trainer of Sergio Martinez, was in Matthysse’s corner for the fight. While Luis “Cuty” Barrera holds the title as Matthysse’s head trainer, it was Sarmiento barking out the orders when the Argentinian returned to the stool during the one minute intermissions. He encouraged more movement and boxing, and assured his fighter that the body punches were going to pay off.

Matthysse’s plan from the get-go was to wear down Judah with a steady stream of body punches — he said so himself in the pre-fight press conference. On Saturday, Matthysse executed his strategy to the best of his ability and it was clear that Judah was fading during the later rounds.

The heavy-handed Argentinian stuck to his commitment to wail away at Judah’s body, a commitment that seemed to have paid off in round ten when Matthysse hurt Judah with a straight right then followed up with one more, dropping Judah.

Down to one-knee, Judah rose to his feet to beat the ten count, and within a matter of seconds, landed a few of his own power punches to momentarily stop Matthysse in his tracks.

Judah ate a few more straight rights, and absorbed some more punishment to the body before the final bell sounded, but all of Matthysse’s efforts in the second half of the fight were not enough to capture the victory in Newark. One judge saw the bout in the Argentine’s favor, scoring it 114-113 for Matthysse while two judges agreed on the score 114-113 for Judah, awarding the Brooklyn-bred fighter the split decision victory.

After the fight, Judah admitted that being on the receiving end of Matthysse’s punches was no walk in the park.

“He is the strongest fighter I’ve ever fought,” Judah said during the post-fight press conference. “The dude was punching like he had cinder blocks in his gloves.”

While Judah insisted that he was pleased with his performance and the successful training camp that enabled him to battle the full thirty-six minutes with Matthysse, he did acknowledge that this fight was not his best.

“Everybody boos and says whatever because they are so used to seeing me dominate guys for so long,” Judah said at the post fight press conference. “Can I have a bad day one time? I’m only human.”

The Judah hype train may have left the station prematurely. A performance like Saturday night’s against any of the A-List 140 pounders would undoubtedly have resulted in a loss for “Super” Judah. Amir Khan, Devon Alexander, Marcos Maidana, and Timothy Bradley all would have bested Zab on this night.

But while this performance didn’t turn any heads, it doesn’t mean his next one won’t. With another IBF title eliminator likely on the horizon versus Kaizer Mabuza, Judah will once again have the opportunity to convince the boxing world that he is back in championship form.

Whether his next fight is against Mabuza or not; whether it is Newark, New York, or South Africa, one thing is for certain: the 2010 version of Zab Judah will be fully prepared to fight. The days of two-week training camps are long gone. This version of Judah is more mature and humble; more focused and more determined. The new, old Zab will give it one hundred and ten percent.

And at the end of the day, that’s all we can ask of boxers, right?

Photo By Claudia Bocanegra

15rounds.com Claudia Bocanegra was on hand at The Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey to capture the images on Zab Judah’s split decision victory over Lucas Matthysee. Plus see photos of the undercard and press conference as well as ring legend at HBO Broadcaster Roy Jones Jr.

In the final bout of a long night of boxing at Newark, New Jersey’s Prudential Center, Zab “Super” Judah (40-6, 27 KO) was awarded a split decision victory over the previously unbeaten Lucas Matthysse (27-1, 25 KO) in front of a crowd of 4,172 people.

The main event was slow to start, as the first five rounds failed to provide fireworks, and thus, failed to excite the crowd — who, at times, ‘booed’ the fighters in the ring. The best punches of the bouts first few rounds were landed by Zab — a crisp right hook in round 1, a sharp left uppercut perfectly placed on Matthysse’s chin in round 3, and another vicious right hook in round 5.

From round 6 on, however, Matthysse looked like a different fighter. He started to press the action more and more and walk down Judah and cut off the ring. It was evident that Matthysse was trying to score big with a straight right, and finally, in round 10, he connected and Judah went crashing to the canvas. Matthysse, smelling blood in the water, tried to follow up, but Judah fired back and warded off any further attack.

Matthysse second-half comeback was not enough to overcome his slow start, however, as he lost a split decision. The judge who scored the bout in favor of the Argentinian saw it 114-113. While the two who scored the bout for Judah saw the fight 115-112 and 114-113.

The win marks Judah’s fourth in a row and second straight since returning to 140 lbs. Next up for Judah will likely be Kaizer Mabuza in another IBF junior welterweight eliminator

Robert Guerrero vs. Vincente Escobedo

In an entertaining and hard-fought ten round battle, Robert Guerrero (28-1, 18 KO) earned a unanimous decision victory over fellow Californian, Vincente Escobedo (22-3, 14 KO).

In the opening round, Guerrero got the better of Escobedo, with a sensational right hook serving as the opening rounds most devastating punch. It was a clash of heads however, not any punches, that caused a huge gash to open up on the side of Escobedo’s head. As the round progressed, Escobedo’s entire left side of his face was painted red.

Escobedo’s cutman did a nice job between rounds to slow the cut and reduce the blood flow from a pour to a slow leak. Both fighters continued to feel one another in the second round, with Guerrero getting the better of Escobedo. In the third round, Guerrero turned up the heat, as he dropped Escobedo with a dazzling combination of a right hook followed by a straight left.

To Escobedo’s credit and in round four found a lot of success when he threw punches in bunches. At times, Escobedo landed his punches flush on Guerrero’s face, but “The Ghost” was never in danger.

In the sixth round, Guerrero sent Escobedo crashing to the canvas once again, courtesy of a left uppercut.

While Escobedo battled, there was no way he could overcome the two knockdowns.

All three judges scored the bout in favor of Guerrero: 100-88, 98-90, and 96-93.

Bastie Samir vs. Damion Reed — 4 Rounds

In the night’s opening bout, Bastie Samir (6-0, 6 KOs) made quick work of Reidsville, North Carolina’s Damion Reed (2-4, 1 KO). Samir, who fights out of Las Vegas by way of Accra, Ghana, bombarded his defenseless opponent with a barrage of vicious left hooks. The former Ghanaian Olympian sent Reed to one knee four different times in the opening round before the referee called a halt to the bout. The time of the stoppage was 2:47 into round 1.

Mikael Zewski vs. Ardrick Butler — Welterweights — 4Rounds

In a four round bout at the welterweight division, undefeated prospect Mikael Zewski (5-0, 3 KOs) defeated Philadelphia’s Ardrick Butler (5-3, 2 KOs). The Canadian prospect, Zewski, showed off an impressive skillet over the twelve minutes spent in the ring. Zewski pounded away at Butler throughout the fight, hammering Butler’s body, and mixing in aggressive left hooks that often found a home. In the final round, Zewski kicked it into another gear, throwing a fifteen second flurry of viscious power punches, which Butler, to his credit, withstood. The resilient Butler had his own share of success sprinkled throughout the bout, but Zewski always had an answer. All three judges scored the bout 40-36 in favor of Zewski.

Mike Perez vs. Hevinson Herrera — Lightweights — 6 Rounds

Undefeated prospect Mike Perez put on an electrifying performance in front of his hometown fans. Perez (10-0-1, 5 KO’s), born and raised in Newark, shocked his opponent, Hevinson Herrera (14-7-1, 12 KO’s) when he hurt him with a straight right less than a minute into the inaugural round. Perez wisely followed up backing the injured Herrera up against the ropes before finishing him off with a three punch combination — left hook, right to the body, left hook — that sent Herrera hard to the canvas. Herrera beat the ten count, but was visibly hurt and standing on wobbly legs. Referee Randy Nuemann stopped the bout 1:02 into the opening round.

Tyrone Luckey vs. Alex Montes — Junior Lightweights — 4 Rounds

In a fight that had the Prudential Center crowd on their feet at times, Middletown, New Jersey’s Tyrone Luckey improved his record to 2-0 with a third round stoppage over Alex Montes (1-2) of San Juan, Puerto Rico. The fight started with a bang when Montes introduced Luckey to the canvas about fifteen seconds into the fight. The fighter’s continued to exchange power punches with each other throughout the first round, standing in the pocket, and wailing away. The second round saw Luckey find Montes’ chin with regularity, as he dropped Montes twice in round two, both with violent left hooks. Round three saw more fireworks, with Montes on the receiving end of most exchanges. Once again, Luckey rocked Montes, who went down for the third time in the fight. When Montes got to his feet, he was standing on unstable legs and that’s when Luckey pounded away at his injured opponent until the referee called a halt to the bout at the 2:55 mark of the round 3.

Mike Brooks vs. Kywayne Hill — Junior Lightweights — 4 Rounds

Long Island, New York’s Mike “Lefty” Brooks easily outpointed Philadelphia’s Kywayne Hill to improve his record to 3-0, 1 KO. Brooks used his superior hand speed to continuously score against Hill 1-6, 1 KO, who offered up an uninspiring effort. At times, Hill looked like he could inflict some damage on Brooks, scoring sporadically with uppercuts and straight rights. He could never string together combinations, however, and seemed content at times to cover up and let Brooks throw freely — which he did. In the end, all three judges scored the bout 40-36 in favor of Brooks.

Angel Concepcion vs. Maurice Amaro — Light Heavyweights — 4 Rounds

In a four round light heavyweight bout, Newark’s Angel Concepcion improved his record to 3-0 with a unanimous decision over Philadelphia’s Maurice Amaro, who fell to 1-3. The opening round was Concepcion’s finest, landing punches at will through Hill’s suspect defense. Concepcion pummeled HIll with left hooks that wrapped around Hill’s defense and couple them with straight rights that split Hill’s gloves. TO his credit, Hill withstood everything Concepcion threw at him, and on occasion landed some power punches of his own. Concepcion, who was never once in danger throughout the fight, imposed his will on Hill, landing punches with regularity. In the end all three judges scored the bout 40-36 in favor of Newark’s Concepcion.

Adrien Broner vs. Ilido Julio — Junior Lightweights — 8 Rounds

Undefeated prospect Adrian Broner scored a first round TKO victory over veteran journeyman Ilido Julio to improve his record to 18-0, 15 KOs. Broner, showed not only superior boxing skills, but also superior dance moves, as he came into the ring dancing, danced a little more mid-fight, and finished the show with a backflip. Broner hammered his out of shape Colombian opponent from the opening bell. Midway through the round, Broner landed a violent left hook/straight right combination that sent Julio crashing to the floor. During the 10-count, Broner walked over to where the HBO announcing trio of Jim Lampley, Max Kellerman, and Roy Jones Jr., are seated and told Roy Jones Jr. that he’s the next world champion. When the fight resumed, Broner rushed over the wobbly Julio and unleashed a continuous flow of punches until the referee stepped in and stopped the fight. The time of the stoppage was 1:34 in the first round.

Sadam Ali vs. Gary Bergeron — Welterweights — 8 Rounds 2:18

Fan favorite and former US Olympian, Brooklyn’s Sadam Ali (10-0, 6 KOs) overpowered New Orleans’ Gary Bergeron (12-7, 7 KOs) to get the TKO victory at the 2:18 mark of round 2. Ali looked as sharp as ever, creating angles with impressive footwork and landing punches at will. Bergeron seemed content to cover up his face and absorb a barrage of body punches throughout the fight. Ali hammered away at Bergeron, who was unable to create any offense whatsoever during his five-plus minutes in the ring. Towards the end of the opening round, Ali dropped Bergeron with a left hook, left uppercut combination. After beating the 10-count, Bergeron was pinned against the ropes, covering up and not firing back as Ali unleashed vicious combinations on him. The fight could have easily been stopped at the end of round 1, but Bergeron was saved by bell.

The second round was all Ali, as he once again controlled the fight. Towards the end of round 2, Ali dropped Bergeron again, this time by a right uppercut. After beating the count, Ali put pressure on, eventually rocking Bergeron again with a left hook that put the New Orleans native on unsteady legs. A straight right and one more left hook prompted the referee to call a halt to the bout at the 2:18 mark of round 2.

Zab Judah has experienced the highest of highs and lowest of lows in a career filled with unpredictability.

Blessed with elite talent from the get-go, Judah’s speed, power, boxing ability and defense helped him win titles in two weight classes. The Brooklyn, NY bred southpaw was making his way up the pound for pound list after knocking out Cory Spinks to become the undisputed welterweight champion, but well documented miscues have at times overshadowed his success.

Judah has twice been suspended and fined after mental breakdowns caused him to spark riots in his bouts against Kostya Tszyu and Floyd Mayweather. He also suffered an embarrassing setback in what was supposed to be a hometown showcase against 16 to 1 underdog Carlos Baldomir in an uninspiring performance. In addition, the former three time New York Golden Gloves champion was involved in scuffles outside of the squared circle; but that was then and this is now.

A self defined born-again Christian, Judah is presently based out of Las Vegas, NV where he resides with his fiancé and son Zab Jr. Surprisingly, the 33 year old seems to have hit the jackpot in the same city where many have thrown away their life savings in a manner of hours.

Gone are Judah’s gold teeth, overzealous attitude and lavish lifestyle. Replacing them is a mature approach to his future in boxing and the realization of his mistakes. Accompanying his fresh outlook was the decision to move down to 140 pounds, where he’ll attempt to become the king of boxing’s hottest division.

I had the opportunity to catch up with Judah, 37-6- (27 KO’s), who takes on unbeaten power puncher Lucas Matthysse (27-0, 25 KO’s) tonight at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ in the main event of an HBO double header.

Matt Yanofsky: Tonight you are going to face an unbeaten opponent who is a huge puncher, but is a bit untested. What are you expecting?

Zab Judah: First I’d like to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for giving me this opportunity. Matthysse is a great fighter he has an unbeaten record of 27 wins with 25 knockouts. It’s not easy to knock somebody out, so he (is a threat). I have seen him he has good speed and he is looking to make an impression in America so I am sure he is going to try and do what he has to do.

MY: This is going to be your second fight at the Prudential Center, which is one of the hottest new venues in boxing, and you had a decent crowd last time around against Jose Armando Santa Cruz in July. What do you like about the Prudential Center and do you hope to keep fighting there?

ZJ: Yeah definitely! The Prudential Center has been great to us. Super Judah Promotions and Main Events have a great plan in place. There is no reason we can’t make this into the new Madison Square Garden!

MY: There are a lot of great fighters at 140 pounds such as Devon Alexander, who you called out in March, Timothy Bradley, Marcos Maidana and Amir Khan amongst others. Who would you like to fight if you are victorious and why?

ZJ: Right now my eyes are set on Matthysse. After the fight we will figure everything out but.

MY: A lot of fighters don’t move down in weight, especially as they get older. How were you able to effectively cut weight after fighting at 147 for so many years?

ZJ: (Mentions Jesus Christ’s great influence on his life) anything is possible. I think Zab Judah’s career is still blossoming and this is a lesson that nobody can say (I can’t do something) except God.

MY: Being that Matthysse is a straight forward fighter, are you planning to box and move or are you going to look to get him out of there?

ZJ: I am moving at God’s speed! I’m going to go in there and do (what Zab Judah does). I will see what he has and (determine the pace from there).

MY: What can the fans expect from you?

ZB: Explosiveness, lightning (speed) and dynamite boxing. It’s going to be a great event!

MY: Zab, thanks for the interview. What do you have to say in closing to your fans worldwide?

ZB: I love you all, (stay focused on what is in front of you and) keep God first in your life.

NABO Jr. Welterweight Title/IBF Eliminator — 12 Rounds

Zab Judah (39-6, 27 KO) — 139 lbs.

vs.

Lucas Matthysse (27-0, 25 KO) — 140 lbs.

Vacant WBO Intercontinental Lightweight Title — 10 Rounds

Robert Guerrero (27-1-1, 18 KO) — 133 lbs.

vs.

Vincente Escobedo (22-2, 14 KO) — 134 lbs.

Welterweights — 8 Rounds

Sadam Ali (8-0, 5 KO) — 145.5 lbs.

vs.

Gary Bergeron (12-6, 7 KO) — 143 lbs.

Heavyweights — 8 Rounds

Mariusz Wach (22-0, 10 KO) — 263 lbs.

vs.

TBA

Light Heavyweights — 4 Rounds

Angel Concepcion (2-0) — 179 lbs.

vs.

Maurice Amaro (1-2) — 173 lbs.

Junior Welterweights — 4 Rounds

Mike Brooks (2-0, 1 KO) — 140.5 lbs.

vs.

Kywayne Hill (1-5, 1 KO) — 139 lbs.

Junior Lightweights — 4 Rounds

Tyrone Luckey (1-0, 1 KO) — 130 lbs.

vs.

Alex Montes (1-1) — 126 lbs.

Lightweights — 6 Rounds

Mike Perez (9-0, 4 KO) — 136 lbs.

vs.

Hevinson Herrera (14-6-1, 12 KO) — 135 lbs.

Junior Lightweights — 8 Rounds

Adrien Broner (17-0, 14 KO) — 134.5 lbs.

vs.

Ilido Julio (40-19-1, 35 KO) — 136.5 lbs.

Welterweights — 4 Rounds

Mikael Zewski (4-0, 3 KO) — 151 lbs.

vs.

Ardrick Butler (5-2, 2 KO)

Junior Middleweight — 4 Rounds

Bastie Samir (5-0, 5 KO) — 162 lbs.

vs.

Damion Reed (2-3, 1 KO) — 163 lbs.

Judah vs. Matthysse, a twelve round NABO junior welterweight championship bout, is part of an exciting night of boxing at Newark’s Prudential Center on Saturday, November 6. The show is presented by Main Events, Super Judah Promotions, and Golden Boy Promotions. Doors open at 6:00pm, first bout to follow immediately. The HBO Boxing After Dark telecast begins at 11:15pm ET / PT.

Tickets are still available: Priced at $53, $78, $103 and $253 (ringside) can be purchased at Prudential Center Box Office, by calling TicketMaster at 800-745-3000 or www.Prucenter.com.

Newark, NJ (September 29) – Unbeaten lightweight sensation Michael Angelo “The Artist” Perez will appear in a six round special attraction bout as part of the Zab Judah-Lucas Matthysse undercard Saturday, November 6 at the Prudential Center in his hometown of Newark, NJ.

Perez, a skilled pugilist with an intriguing style, is regarded amongst the top prospects on the East Coast. Unbeaten at 9-0 with 4 wins by knockout, the 20 year old phenom is coming off a devastating first round stoppage of veteran Jorge Ruiz. Prior to that, Perez made a name for himself on a national level, dominating previously unbeaten Francisco Reyes on TeleFutura.

Although he’s already built up a solid fan base and a few of his bouts have taken place within driving distance, Perez knows that his inaugural appearance in the Brick City will be something special.

“Fighting in Newark means so much to me,” said Perez, the 2008 National Golden Gloves Champion at lightweight. “Everybody has been dying to see me fight at the Prudential Center and I expect a huge crowd to come out and support me.”

Perez opponent will be announced shortly.

The highly anticipated bout featuring Perez against an opponent to be announced will come beneath the HBO “Boxing After Dark” doubleheader featuring Judah-Matthysse and Robert Guerrero against Vicente Escobedo.

The card is being promoted by Main Events, Golden Boy Promotions and Super Judah Promotions.

Tickets priced at $53, $78, $103 and $253 (ringside) can be purchased at Prudential Center Box Office, by calling TicketMaster at 800-745-3000 or www.Prucenter.com.

Just last week it was rumoured that Argentinean power puncher Lucas Matthysse 27-0(25) 1 No Contest would make a quick return after his impressive first round destruction of Rogelio Castaneda Jr by taking the biggest fight of his career to date against Zab Judah on 6 November in Newark, NJ. While it is all just talk at the moment, it shows what kind of statement Matthysse 27, sent out after his recent drilling over the usually durable Castaneda. He’s from a fighting family which includes his brother Walter who fought the likes of Paul Williams & Kermit Cintron, both grew up in the small town of Trelew in the South of Argentina roughly 800 miles from where he now resides in the nations capital of Buenos Aires. Currently ranked at number 3 by the WBO, 8 by the IBF & 12 by the WBC.

Hello Lucas, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – Firstly congratulations on your win over Rogelio Castaneda Jr what can you tell us about the fight?

Lucas Matthysse – The fight was faster than I hoped, but I was trained to do 12 rounds. I am very happy.

Anson Wainwright – It looks impressive because you stopped him in one whereas normally he goes rounds with other contenders he’s fought like like Lamont Peterson, Francisco Bojado & Demetrius Hopkins to name a few. How pleased were you with the performance?

Lucas Matthysse – All of them are great boxers. I’m very pleased with my performance because I won easy to a hard opponent.

Anson Wainwright – Now that you have gotten the fight with Casteneda out of the way, what are your plans next? Who would you like to fight next?

Lucas Matthysse – I would like to fight with the big names. But I will fight anyone my manager indicates me to.

Anson Wainwright – You had fought Casteneda before but it was a Non Contest, you went back and cleaned that up with this win, do you intend to do the same with Vivian Harris? What are your thoughts on the first fight and fighting him again?

Lucas Matthysse – I don`t know, but I believe that I was going to knockout Vivian. I don’t have any problem in giving him the rematch.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your team, who is your Manager, Trainer & Promoter? Also what gym do you use regularly? What other pro’s train with you?

Lucas Matthysse – My manager is Mario Arano, my trainer is Luis “Cuty” Barrera (a former South American welter champion), an my promoters are Arano Box and Golden Boy Promotion. I train in the Arano Box Gym, in Junin, Buenos Aires. Some pro’s who train with me are Carlos Ponce (former Argentine Jr Flyweight champ), Rogelio Rossi (new SA cruiser champ), sometimes Carlos Baldomir (former WBC welter champion) and others.

Anson Wainwright – Your older brother Walter was also a boxer fighting Kermit Cintron & Paul Williams, what is he doing now? Do you have any other brothers or relatives who are or were Boxers?

Lucas Matthysse – Walter is retired and he has a gym in our native city of Trelew, Chubut. My younger sister is a pro boxer and she`s good. My father (Mario) was a great boxer and my mother (Doris) also was boxer (she fought one time as an amateur). All my family involved in boxing!

Anson Wainwright – Could you tell us about your early years growing up in Trelew?

Lucas Matthysse – My childhood was hard. We were poor but we haven’t needed anything. I walked in gangs. I liked the streets and in my 11 years I fought much in gangs. My mother introduced me to go to a boxing gym.

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

Lucas Matthysse – Like I say, my mother induced me to go a Gym and after, the boxing likes me so much. I follow the Walter’s career and years later, all the people said to me that I was very good and I was chosen for the Argentine Boxing team. I fought in a lot of cities and countries with the Argentine team. As an amateur my career was very large I fought near of 100 times

Anson Wainwright – What do you like to do when your not Boxing? What are your hobbies & interests?

Lucas Matthysse – I like to be with my family. I ‘ve a four years old daughter and she’s my treasure. I also like music (Cumbia)

Anson Wainwright – Who was your hero growing up?

Lucas Matthysse – I don’t have any hero

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for the talent packed Light Welterweight division?

Lucas Matthysse – Take care at all!!! The Lucas’ time is coming !!!

Thanks for your time Lucas.

Best Wishes

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

Dan Rafael of espn.com is reporting that former Jr. Welterweight and Welterweight champion Zab Judah may fight undefeated Argentinian Lucas Matthysse on November6 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

“HBO likes the match,” Said Richard Schaefer. “So we are trying to work it out.”

Said Main Events chief Kathy Duva, “We are trying very hard to make it happen, but Zab is definitely interested. I’m all for it, but it’s a complicated thing to do. But I think if it’s going to happen, we’ll have it worked out in the next couple of days.”

Schaefer said former featherweight and junior lightweight titlist Robert Guerrero is slated for the televised co-feature. Schaefer said he could challenge lightweight titlist Miguel Vazquez.

“We’ve discussed that fight and HBO is interested. We’re talking to the Vazquez camp,” Schaefer said.

Dan Rafael of espn.com is reporting that former Jr. Welterweight and Welterweight world champion Zab Judah will take on Michael Clark on October 2nd in Newark, New Jersey.

“I know he’s coming to win,” Judah told ESPN.com on Monday from Las Vegas, where he’s training with Eddie Mustafa Muhammad. “I’m just excited. I’m back in training. Me and Eddie have been in the gym putting in the work. I am looking to go in there and show the world that I am back and that I am the best 140-pounder in the world.”

“I felt great in the Santa Cruz fight,” Judah said. “For this fight here, I will come in at 140. I’m feeling good. Whenever I step in the ring, it will always be an exciting night. I’m making a promise that it will be a dynamic performance. I am mentally and physically ready.”

“With the performances of Bradley and Alexander [in their recent fights], I consider myself the best guy in the division,” Judah said. “Those guys know with me back at 140 that my eyes are set on them, Devon, Bradley and Khan. I don’t know when or which order they will be taken in, but there will be order in the court. I am looking to be undisputed champion at 140 pounds.”

“We offered the fight to Juan Urango, Victor Cayo, Paulie Malignaggi, Lucas Matthysse, Julio Diaz, Kendall Holt and Joel Casamayor,” Said Main Events promoter Kathy Duva. “None of them were interested.”

“HBO knows we are willing to fight any of them, but I was told the only way I was going to get Zab on HBO was to fight on one of Golden Boy’s dates since they have the dates and they have most of those fighters,” Duva said.

“Zab came down from welterweight because he had been fighting in a division he was too small for for a long time and he isn’t going to make that mistake again,” Duva said. “I told Lou (DiBella) if Berto wants to come down to 140, we can make the fight right now. But that isn’t something he’s interested in, which is fine. But we are not going to wait until these guys are willing to fight Zab. We went after just about everyone in the top 10, so it’s frustrating. So we give Michael Clark a lot of credit because he’s willing to fight Zab. He should be given credit. People want to fight Zab at 147, but not at 140, so that’s where we are.”

“Zab needs to just keep putting together wins like he did in July with the idea to get a fight against one of the big guys in the division and eventually his marketability will trump their reticence to fight him,” said Duva, who added that television plans for the Oct. 2 card were in the works. “Outside guys who have belts, he’s the best in the division and we’d like guys to fight him. That’s what this is supposed to be about, fighting the best fights, not looking for an easy fight.”

*Zab Judah twice referenced the date October 2nd as a possible date for his next bout.

*Judah expressed his desire to fight the cream of the crop at 140 lbs. and to be mentioned with in the same breath as the best of the division: Timothy Bradley, Devon Alexander, and Amir Khan. “Don’t forget about me,” Judah said. “I’m here, I’m coming back. I’m going to be like the ghost in the night…The old Zab Judah is back!”

*Judah credited his maturity to both having a child, as well as developing a deeper relationship with God. According to Judah, his hands are so quick he now punches at “GodSpeed.”

*He talked about his conditioning and attributed his fitness to training at high altitude in the Nevada mountains, which he believes will help him in the later rounds of fights.

Former two-division world champion Zab “Super” Judah made a very successful return to his home area as he scored a devastating third round stoppage of former world title challenger Jose Armado Santa Cruz at The Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Judah began to open it up in round two as he landed a pair of solid straight left hands.

In round three, Judah landed a tremendous left uppercut that sent Santa Cruz to the seat of his pants. When Santa Cruz regained his feet, he was greeted by a barrage of punches that was capped off by a pinpoint straight leftthat drove Santa Cruz to the ropes and forced referee Benji Esteves to stop the bout at 2:33 of round three.

Judah, 141 lbs of Las Vegas, NV via Brooklyn, NY is now 39-6 with twenty-seven knockouts. Santa Cruz, 143 lbs of Lincoln Heights, CA is now 2805.

Brooklyn’s Saddam Ali stayed undefeated with a TKO victory over Philadelphia’s Julius Edmonds.

Ali made easy work out of his counterpart, dominant the fight from the opening bell.

In round 1, Ali sent Edmonds to the canvas with a devastating right uppercut. Edmonds was able to weather the storm for the time being, however, and survive the round.

Round 2 featured more domination by Ali, as he once again sent Edmonds to the canvas. Ali hurt Edmonds with a left hand and as Edmonds was falling backwards, added an uppercut for good measure.

Round 3 last only 1:14 before Eddie Cotton saw fit to stop the bout after Ali hurt his opponent with a left hand and sent him stumbling back into the ropes. — Kyle Kinder

With the win, Ali improves to 9-0, with 5 KOs, while Edmonds falls to 7-8.
In an eight round bout at the Welterweight division, native Newarker Alex Perez scored a unanimous decision victory over Brazlian Edvan Barros to increase his already perfect record to 12-0.

The fight was a tough one for Perez, who was forced to fight at a distance and on the inside.

In the early going, Perez was able to land his right with some frequency. However, as the fight prolonged, it was clear that Barros’s strategy was to keep the fight on the inside.

Not surprisingly, it was on the inside that Barros was most effective, throwing powerful uppercuts to the chin of Perez, forcing his head to snap back.

When Perez did create distance, he proved to be dangerous, as he landed a big left hand in round 4 that clearly hurt his opponent.

In round 6 an overhand right by Barros caught Perez, as he then found himself up against the ropes — a position Barros forced his counterpart into consistently throughout the bout. At the end of the round — as the bell sounded — the two exchanged convincing blows to one another. Barros then attempted, for the second time, to touch gloves with Perez, who purposely failed to acknowledge his opponent.

Round 7 saw Perez in trouble with his back against the ropes and Barros finding success with uppercuts and looping right hands. The tide turned about a minute into the round however, as Perez as able to create some space between he and his opponent and land combination on Perez.

After 8 rounds of action, all three judges scored the bout in favor of the hometown fighter, Perez. The scores were: 77-75, 78-84, and 80-72.

With the win, Perez added to his perfect record, increasing it to 12-0, while Barros fell to 10-10-1. — Kyle Kinder

In a Heavyweight bout scheduled for four rounds, Adam Kownacki scored a second round stoppage over Damon Clement in what amounted to three-plus minute shootout.

Kownacki was in control of the opening moments until he walked into a big left that rocked him back into referee Eddie Cotton, who in-turn ruled a knockdown. Kownacki gathered himself to rock Clement and put him on the seat of his pants with a huge flurry of punches. The round ended with Clement being battered in the corner by twenty unanswered shots. Round two picked up where round one ended with each guy nailing each other all over the ring until a huge right that decked Clement for Cotton’s ten count at forty-two seconds of round two.

Kownacki, 231 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is now 4-0 with all wins coming by knockout. Clement, 243 lbs of Dayton, Ohio is now 0-3.

Jersey City’s Patrick Farrell fought New York City’s Newton Kidd to a majority decision draw in a six round bout in the Cruiserweight division.

Two judges scored the bout even, 57-57, while one judge saw the bout in favor for Kidd, 57-56.

Barbaric exchanges between the two were frequent, both fighters taking a good deal of punishment throughout all six rounds.

Farrell seemingly outworked Kidd in the early rounds, getting the better of the exchanges, but faded towards the later rounds, allowing Kidd to land more frequently.

Late in round 5, during a flurry of wild and wide punches from both fighters, Kidd was able to land a left hook flush on Farrell’s face, causing a cut to open up over the Irish-American’s right eye.

When the bell rang to signal the end of the fight, both fighters were granted a well-deserved round of applause by the Prudential Center crowd, acknowledging the heart both boxer’s exhibited in the bout.–Kyle Kinder

Angel Concepcion remained undefeated by scoring a four round unanimous decision over Shannon Anderson in a Light Heavyweight bout.

Concepcion controlled the action and rocked Anderson twice in round three first wobbling him with a left hook and a big right in the corner in the middle of a furious flurry.

Scores were 40-35, 40-36 and 40-36 for Concepcion, 178 lbs of Newark, NJ and is now 2-0. Anderson, 178 lbs of Coatesville, PA is now 4-2.

In the final bout of the evening, Staten Island, New York’s Nickey Demarco improved his record to 3-2, with a unanimous decision victory over the Bronx’s Jose Guzman, who, with the loss, dropped to 5-8-1.

The first three rounds belonged to Demarco who continually forced Guzman to the ropes.

To his credit, Guzman never gave up and in the fourth round came out firing dangerous punches at his opponent. However, it was not enough to persuade the judges he deserved the win.

All three judges scored the bout in favor of DeMarco: 40-36 and 39-37 twice. — Kyle Kinder

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, former welterweight and Jr. Welterweight champion, Zab Judah has re-signed with the company that started his career in 1996, that being Main Events.

“I like to finish how I started so we teamed up with Main Events, we crossed the water to team up with Prudential Center, and I’m back,” said Judah, a Brooklyn, N.Y., native.

“We at Main Events are thrilled to welcome Zab back home,” Main Events CEO Kathy Duva said. “We were fortunate to have been involved with Zab throughout much of his early boxing career, so we know firsthand what a compelling personality and exciting fighter Zab is. Zab brings with him the kind of fan base necessary to fill a big arena and we look forward to packing Prudential Center when he makes his debut there in July.”