BRATCHER ANALYZES THE TOP TWO BOUTS OF UFC 74
Posted on | August 27, 2007 | 1 Comment
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POST-UFC THOUGHTS
By: Jack Bratcher
UFC 74 was a tremendous event. It was everything I thought it would be and better than I could have hoped. Every match was entertaining and all the fighters brought it. I want to personally talk about two of the fights; the two fights I think were most important and the ones I was most looking forward to.
First off we had the Josh Koscheck vs. George St. Pierre fight. The big question for this fight was “Which George St. Pierre was going to show up?” Would it be the GSP who dominated Matt Hughes like nobody’s business to win the Welterweight Title or would it be the GSP who almost seemed “absent-minded” in his last fight when he lost the Title to Matt Serra?
That question was answered decisively with a unanimous decision win over Josh Koscheck. George dominated Josh. I mean he took it to him and showed Josh that he had indeed stepped in to the big boy’s game. Koscheck has fought alot of guys and defeated Diego Sanchez in his last fight, but he had never faced anyone as high a caliber fighter as Geroge St. Pierre and George proved that Josh is not quite ready to make that leap in competition.
Although Josh is 3 years older than George St. Pierre, he has not been in the MMA game or the UFC as long. George has alot more experience in Mixed-Martial Arts but Josh is well on his way; he’s just not quite ready for the top competitors. George’s expereince and skill came into play as he repeatedly shot in and took Koscheck to the ground, where he exhibited great ground and pound with elbows and fists landing. Josh was looking for that knockout punch throwing the big overhand right that so many are now using, made popular by the Iceman. Josh actually reminded me of what Diego was trying to do to him in his last fight; looking for that knockout punch to the detriment of the rest of his game. George basically just overwhelmed Koscheck in every area of the fight; the standup…he outpuched and outkicked him, the takedowns, and on the ground was all GSP. The crowd was chanting GSP and Kos was getting booed. The boos I think stem from Kos’s cocky attitude and certain remarks he’d made about GSP before the fight.
Clearly without a doubt, George St. Pierre is back and I for one am very glad. He has a new training camp with Greg Jackson and he is clearly right where he needs to be. He says his last loss was the best thing for him to get him focused again. This was a significant fight for both men. It was the biggest fight of Josh Koscheck’s career and a win would have put him in as one of the top contenders in the welterweight division. A loss for St. Pierre would have been devastating; it would have been his second loss in a row and a loss to someone like a Koscheck who is relatively new to the UFC and has never held a title would have been detrimental to GSP’s stock as a top contender. A loss for GSP would have been much worse than it is for Josh Koscheck. If you get beat by GSP it’s almost like it’s not even a loss because it’s almost expected. So many great people have lost to George St. Pierre. Josh Koscheck will hopefully learn from this and use it to improve and come back better.
Now we move to the main event: Randy Couture vs. Gabriel Gonzaga. Before this fight, I thought Gabriel Gonzaga would honestly win. The way he destroyed Mirko CroCop blew my mind. I was a huge CroCop fan and to see him get beat like that meant to me that Gonzaga was practically invincible. That’s how great CroCop was to me as a fighter. And the funny thing is, I know better than to ever doubt Randy Couture. Randy looked better in this fight I think than I’ve ever seen him. This guy is a complete fighter. All-around he is very dangerous. Used to be, people didn’t really have to worry about Randy Couture knocking them out…..that is no longer true.
Randy knocked Gonzaga down in the first round with a punch almost just like he did Tim Silvia. Randy landed some devastating shots to Gabriel Gonzaga, and then they got in the clinch where Randy is most dangerous from his Greco-Roman wrestling background. He then picks Gonzaga up slams him down, and Randy’s head breaks Gonzaga’s nose. From this point on blood is pouring down the inside of Gonzaga’s mouth making it very difficult to breathe. This is just the first round. Randy slams him, pounds him, gets Gonzaga against the fence jumps back bam bam on the broken nose then back to the clinch, not giving Gonzaga time to execute anything. Gonzaga is starting to look winded because of the breathing trouble.
Gonzaga landed some good punches at the beginning of the first round but Randy quickly either hit him back or got him in the clinch. Towards the end of Round 1 Gonzaga tells the Ref he can’t see…..Ref asks if he wants to stop, but he says no. The second round starts…….Gonzaga’s nose looks terrible….huge gash…..and you can tell it’s broke. After the fight Randy said he heard it crunch and break when he slammed him and his head hit it.
Randy’s landing good punches in the second round bobbing and weaving like a young pro boxer. Gonzaga is looking tired….and he’s clearly hurt. I’m wondering if he will mount anything offensive at all. At one point Gabriel gives it the best shot he has at that point and lands a full on clean high kick to Randy’s head..”smack”…..reminiscent of the kick that dropped Mirko CroCop……….but Randy doesn’t even budge…..he clinches Gonzaga and ties him up. When that shot didn’t take Randy out I knew it was over…..that was basically all he had left.
Randy got him down again and pounded him out for a TKO. Clearly the high-kick Gonzaga landed didn’t have the same power as the one that knocked out CroCop due to Gonzaga’s fatigue. I was a bit sad for Gonzaga. This was the biggest fight of his life……he’d never been in the Big One before…..main event…..Heavyweight Title match. Randy on the other hand, had been here many times. In fact, ten of his last twelve matches were title matches.
Randy Couture is 44 years old and he just dominated a 28 year old man who outweighs him by twenty-two pounds. He destroyed Gonzaga. The thing about Randy is that he is improving like a young man just learning the game. He’s only getting better. He has become a very dangerous striker…..very dangerous. I thought he was gonna knock Gonzaga out. I’m waiting for the day when he drops someone in that Octagon. Randy Couture……Captain America they call him……..The Natural they call him………..is 44 years old and the Heavyweight Champion of the World. He looks like he’s 30 and is in the best shape of his life. He’s truly an inspiration for us all. He’s the most-loved, most-respected champion in the world. Congratulations Randy!!
Here’s the rest of the results for UFC 74:
Marcus Aurelio vs. Clay Guida – winner=Clay Guida
Ryan Jensen vs. Thales Leites – winner=Thales Leites
Antoni Hardonk vs. Frank Mir – winner=Frank Mir
David Heath vs. Renato Sobral – winner=Renato Sobral
Patrick Cote vs. Kendall Grove – winner=Patrick Cote
Kurt Pellegrino vs. Joe Stevenson – winner=Joe Stevenson
Alberto Crane vs. Roger Huerta – winner=Roger Huerta
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Tags: ANALYZES > Arts > bam > bouts > caliber > detriment > Diego Sanchez > elbows > event > everything > expereince > fight > fists > Geroge > geroge st pierre > GSP > josh koscheck vs george st pierre > knockout punch > last fight > leap > Martial > Matt Hughes > Matt Serra > MIXED > Mixed Martial Arts > nbsp > Nobody > overhand > overhand right > punch > RIGHT > round > shot > Skill > Thoughts > ufc 74 > unanimous decision > welterweight title
UFC 74 POST-FIGHT WRAP-UP
Posted on | August 27, 2007 | No Comments
UFC 74 Respect
by Holli Yargo Hearne
Middleweights
Patrick “The Predator” Cote vs. Kendall “Da Spyder” Grove
Referee: Herb Dean
Weighing in only ½ pound different, there is a 7-inch height difference between the two fighters.
Cote starts with an overhand right, surprising the crowd, and Grove comes out with unexpected aggression. Cote lands a combination then clinches up with Grove, keeping the Hawaiia close, neutralizing his lanky legs. Dean breaks them up and sends them to the center of the cage. Cote lands two leg kicks but Kendall answers with a kick of his own. Grove lands some inside knees but Cote doesn’t appear too phased. Cote lands a couple body shots from the clinch. Cote fails a takedown attempt and is punched by a hard shot to the face. An exchange of right hands is followed by Grove landing another vicious kick. Cote rocks Grove with a big right behind Grove’s ear, landing punches on the ground, attempts a choke but grounds and pounds Grove to a TKO win 2:45 into the first round.
Lightweights
Joe “Daddy” Stevenson vs. Kurt “Batman” Pellegrino
Referee: Big John McCarthy
Both fighters weighed in at 155. Pellegrino came in 1 inch taller than Stevenson but Stevenson has the reach advantage.
Pellegrino starts with a jab but both fighters were clearly ready to brawl. Stevenson lands a hard knee to the body. Pellegrino gets the takedown but nearly gets caught in a guillotine. Stevenson sweeps then takes Pellegrino’s back. Pellegrino stands but Stevenson gets the suplex takedown. Stevenson sinks another guillotine but Pellegrino is able to pop out. Pellegrino attempts side control but Stevenson keeps him at bay with a variety of guards. Stevenson stays busy with submission attempts and punches from his back. Pellegrino rocks Stevenson with a right hand inside Stevenson’s guard. The round ends before Pellegrino can capitalize.
Round two opens with an exchange of jabs and combinations. Pellegrino shoots for the takedown only to get nailed with hammerfists. Stevenson continues to connect with jabs and uppercuts. Stevenson misses with a right but falls into Pellegrino’s guard. Pellegrino’s left eyebrow was opened up by a wicked elbow which Stevenson used as a target. Stevenson takes Pellegino’s back, feeding leather to Pellegrino. Pellegrino escapes another guillotine attempt. Pellegrino lands another hard right to Stevenson from Stevenson’s open guard. Pellegrino attempts a guillotine just as the round ends.
Pellegrno sinks a big uppercut followed by a combination to open the third round. Steveson lands a right hook but is taken down. Stevenson keeps Pelegrino in a close guard. Big John stands the fighters up and Stevenson gets up with new energy but falls into a guillotine attempt that Pellegrino is not able to hold. Stevenson pins Pellegrino against the cage, feeding him unanswered left punches and vicious kicks to the face. Pellegrino stands but Stevenson takes him down again. Pellegrino is able to get side control but Stevenson reverses to throw more punches. Pellegrino rolls to try for a leg submission but the round ends before either fighter can finish. Forrest Griffin mugged it up for the cameras with The Six Million dollar Man while waiting for the judges’ decision. Stevenson was awarded the unanimous decision win, asking Joe Rogan what he thought was next for him. Rogan said he thought Stevenson was ready for a title shot.
Lightweights
Roger “El Matador” Huerta vs. Alberto Crane
Referee: Steve Mazzagatti
Both fighters come in at 155. This is Crane’s UFC debut.
Crane opens with leg kicks only to eat a fist. Crane shoots for a takedown, attempting a footlock but is almost caught in a rear naked choke. Huerta rolls for a reverse triangle attempt but Crane reverses for a submission attempt of his own. Huerta reverses landing haymakers while avoiding Crane’s legs. Crane tries to take Huerta’s arm but can only achieve side control. Huerta gives up his back but is able to avoid a rear naked choke. Huerta reverses to land haymakers and elbows. Huerta escapes a guillotine, but a puffy bleeding mouse is revealed under the eye of Crane.
The second round opens with a more aggressive Huerta. Crane attempts an armbar but Huerta escapes. The round ends with neither fighter finishing.
Round three demonstrates a crafty Huerta who uses the big screen to see where Crane’s head is, as Crane clings to the Texan’s back, allowing him to throw nasty elbows without even looking behind. Huerta takes Crane’s back and pounds out Crane for a TKO win 1:50 in the third round.
Welterweights
Georges “Rush” St-Pierre vs. Josh Koscheck
Referee: Big John McCarthy
Coming off the biggest win of his career over Diego Sanchez, Koscheck confidently prepares to demonstrate his newly developed striking skills against St-Pierre, a proven striker. St-Pierre, returning to the octagon following his most devastating loss believes he’s stronger than ever and will have an answer to whatever the wrestler thinks he can bring. Both fighters come in at the same height and weight with only a two year age difference between them.
Despite their matching height and weight, St-Pierre looks huge compared to his opponent. Koscheck trades punches with St Pierre but is surprised when he is taken down. Koscheck holds GSP in half guard but eats punches and elbows until GSP pins him against the cage. This is a very different GSP than who we saw in Houston at UFC 69. Kos gets up, trying a takedown but GSP sprawls. Kos manages an explosive single leg takedown landing in GSP’s butterfly guard. Kos lands a hard right just before the round ends.
GSP fakes a superman punch, landing leg kicks and getting another takedown back into Kos’s half guard. Kos escapes a kimura attempt. GSP attempts another kimura but again lets it go. GSP gains side control but eats a couple of elbows. Kos scrambles and rolls, but GSP maintains control returning to Kos’s half guard. GSP all but sits on Kos’s head, cranking up Kos’s right arm for another kimura attempt. Kos maintains control of his arm but decidedly loses round two.
GSP opens the third round with some inside leg kicks but Kos is able to answer with jabs. Kos throws punches and elbows but is essentially shadowboxing. GSP fakes another superman punch to land a hard leg kick to Kos’s knee. GSP delivers a superman punch followed by a leg kick. Kos gets GSP’s left leg but the Canadian powers out, falling into Kos’s guard, raining elbows. Kos’s nose is clearly bloodied as he struggles to survive on his back. GSP works an armory of body shots and elbows, sinking a leg lock but the round ends before he is able to finish. From my perspective, Kos definitively lost this fight and the judges agreed. GSP takes a unanimous decision victory, defeating Koscheck at his own game.
Heavyweight Title Fight
Randy “The Natural” Couture vs. Gabriel Gonzaga
Referee: Herb Dean
Couture defends his belt, won in a shocking upset over Tim Sylvia earlier in the year. Gonzaga takes this challenge after knocking out Mirko Cro Cop with a deadly head kick.
Couture says he wants to “beat the dog crap out of Gabe Gonzaga.” Gonzaga outweighs couture by about 20 pounds but Couture has the reach advantage.
Gonzaga comes out with a right hand but Couture rocks the Brazilian and takes him down. Gonzaga stands but Couture takes his back against the cage, clinching up and dirty boxing. Gonzaga throws some punches that miss their mark but lands a kick. Courture gets a big takedown but Gonzaga stands immediately. Gonzaga lands some knees but his nose is bleeding profusely. Gonzaga’s nose is apparently broken as he breathes heavily through his mouth. Couture powers elbows and shoulders from the clinch. Couture strikes out with heavy, heavy elbows. Gonzaga picks off a good combination but is pushed back to the cage just as the round ends.
Gonzaga attempts a head kick but Couture is ready and ducks under, pressing the bigger man against the cage. A slugfest ensues but Gonzaga calls a time-out for not being able to see. Herb Dean asks him if he wants to continue and the fight presses on. A point is taken from Gonzaga for grabbing the fence. Couture powers combinations and uppercuts, throwing knees to the face of the exhausted Brazilian. Gonzaga’s smashed nose bleeds down Couture’s back as he is smothered by The Natural, eating uppercuts. Gonzaga spits blood before failing a takedown at the buzzer.
Couture opens the three spot with an overhand right. Gonzaga answers with a head kick. Couture gets the takedown, grounding and pounding from half guard. Dean stops the fight, giving Couture the TKO win. Couture once again dominates a younger, bigger contender to remain the UFC Heavyweight Champion of the World.
Middleweights
Thales Leites vs. Ryan Jensen
Referee: Herb Dean
Leites comes in as a last minute replacement for Travis Lutter. He was three pounds overweight at weigh-ins but was able to cut after two additional hours of sweating. Jensen came in at a perfect 185. Both fighters stand at 73” tall. Their records are both 11-1.
Jensen comes out with two high kicks which are answered by a kick from Leities. Jensen pushes forward, setting the pace. Jensen hooks a guillotine attempt but Leites is able to circle out. Both fighters stand with Leites taking Jensen’s back only to eat a hard, blind elbow. Leites attempts a submission but Jensen stands up to escape. Leites pulls guard and attempts an armbar. Jensen escapes only to be caught in another armbar, forcing him to tap.
Disappointingly, the bouts between Sobral vs. Heath, Mir vs. Hardonk, and Guida vs. Aurelio were not televised. Nevertheless, the results are as follows: Renato “Babalu” Sobral pounded Heath into a bloody mess (the evidence left behind on the canvas was televised even though the fight was not) before choking the OK native for the tap. A fierce Frank Mir submitted kickboxer Antoni Hardonk. It’s high time the Dutchman learn some ground skills. Californian Clay Guida took a split decision win over Pride veteran Marcus Aurelio.
PHILADELPHIA BOXING REPORT
Posted on | August 27, 2007 | 2 Comments
Philadelphia Boxing Results – 8/24/07
Alphonso Williams Shocks Derek Ennis in 3rd Round
By Tony Penecale (Ringside)
The seven-bout card at South Philadelphia’s New Alhambra featured a variety of twists and turns including a local prospect suffering a vicious knockout loss, two grudge matches that left scores unsettled, a knockout-of-the-year candidate, and a disappointing Philadelphia debut for a one-time “Contender”.
In the main event, Derek “Pooh” Ennis, 157, Philadelphia, was shocked by Alphonso “Soldier” Williams, 157, Pittsburgh PA, and knocked out when it seemed that he was in control. Ennis opened by boxing and giving angles to the physically stronger Williams. Williams stalked throughout the 1st round, walking into several Ennis counters, before landing a hard right hand at the bell.
Ennis seemed to find his grove in the 2nd round, landing crisp single punches to control the round. Ennis kept the momentum going in the 3rd round, sharpshooting Williams, who was showing signs of slowing down, along with serious swelling under his right eye. As the round was winding down, Ennis made the mistake of standing in front of Williams and exchanging left hooks. Williams uncorked a massive hook that landed a split second before Ennis landed his. The force of the blow spun Ennis around and deposited him on the canvas where he valiantly tried to regain his feet. Ennis was able to rise unsteadily, at the count of nine, which prompted referee Shawn Clark to halt the bout.
Williams improves his record to 10-2 (8) while Ennis, who was on the comeback trail, sees his two-fight knockout-win streak end, falls to 12-2-1 (9).
In the co-feature, Jonathan “Reid Dawg” Reid, widely known for being a contestant in the first season of the TV reality show “The Contender” was hoping to make his Philadelphia debut a memorable one. Dhafir “No Fear” Smith stepped in to spoil that debut.
Reid, 165, Nashville TN, who dedicating the bout to the late Najai Turpin, his contender alum and Philadelphia native who had taken his own life in 2005, was unable to unleash his slick offense against Smith, 167, Philadelphia, who boxed cautiously in winning a split decision.
Reid, who has an uncanny resemblance to great Chicago Bears linebacker Mike Singletary, came out with an intense focus in the 1st round, boxing behind his jab and looking to cut the ring off against Smith, who was tentative from the start. Reid started to find his range in the 2nd round and was able to land a series of right hands, while Smith was content to keep the pace slow with his jab.
Smith’s plan started to take effect in the 3rd round as Reid started to become frustrated and focused more on movement and angles than punching. The trend continued in the 4th round with Smith using primarily his long jab and tight defense to keep Reid at bay, which annoyed the crowd with the lack of action.
Reid tried to pick up the pace and draw Smith into exchanging over the final two rounds with moderate success. Like a smart coach would negate Singletary’s intensity by running away from him, Smith negated Reid’s intensity and offense by boxing at long range, in what was ultimately a dull affair.
One judge favored Reid by the score of 58-56 but was outvoted by the other two judges who favored Smith by scores of 59-55 and 58-56. This reporter had the bout even at 57-57. Smith improves his record to 18-13 (5) while Reid, who is scheduled to return to the New Alhambra on September 21, falls to 34-7 (19).
In other bouts:
In a highly-anticipated rubber match, Clarence “Sonny Bono” Taylor and Joe “Kid Vicious” Christy engaged in a controversial slugfest that opens the door for a fourth bout between them.
The pair first met in April ’02 with Christy prevailing by unanimous decision. In the rematch, held in September ’05, it was Taylor who prevailed by split decision. Both men vowed to break the tie going into this bout.
It was Christy, 158, Philadelphia, a hard-luck Philadelphia pug that never backs down and wades through punishment resembles a real-life “Rocky”, who started the action by backing Taylor to the ropes and firing with a series of body punches and wild right hands.
The action resumed in the 2nd round, with Christy staying on top of Taylor and forcing the action against the ropes. Taylor was able to find some success with counter punches but was overall being outworked throughout the round. Taylor’s counters finally hit home in the 3rd round as he was able to spring off the ropes and land hard punches, which had Christy staggering around the ring.
The action slowed a bit in the 4th round with Taylor giving Christy angles and trying to slow the pace while Christy took the lead and landed several punches. The tempo picked back up in the 5th round, with both boxers exchanging punches, with Taylor more effective in the center of the ring and Christy scoring when he was able to pin Taylor against the ropes. Going into the 6th round, the bout was up for grabs and it appeared that Taylor grabbed it, landing some big punches punctuated by a searing right hand at the bell.
After tallying the cards, it was Christy that emerged victor by split decision, winning by the scores of 58-56 on two judge’s cards; while the third judge favored Taylor by the score of 58-56, as did this reporter.
Taylor immediately showed his frustration with the decision, picking up the house microphone and challenging Christy to a fourth encounter. He even agreed to put the WBC USNBA junior middleweight title that he had won in his previous bout on the line. Wit the victory, Christy ups his record to 8-11-3 (2) while Taylor evens up at 12-12-2 (6).
In another grudge match, popular Philadelphia fighter Simon “One Punch” Carr was looking to avenge his lone defeat against Andre “Da Heat” Hemphill. The bad blood between these two fighters was evident at the pre-fight press conference as words were exchanged and the combatants were nose-to-nose.
Carr, 182, Philadelphia, who entered the ring in a mask ala Bernard Hopkins, started the bout more like a prime Mike Tyson, charging Hemphill, 183, Woodbridge VA, fighting inside and firing hard body shots. Hemphill responded with body shots of his own and several from each boxer strayed low, which intensified the fire between them. An exchange at the bell ended with both fighters bumping each other on the way back to the corner.
Carr pressed the action again in the 2nd round but it was Hemphill who got the better of the exchanges, landing some good body shots and short uppercuts. Hemphill found more success in the 3rd round, landing good uppercuts and a hard left hook that had Carr reeling around the ring.
Sensing he was behind on the scorecards, Carr attacked relentlessly in the 4th and final round, throwing wild punches. Hemphill spent most of the round coasting and the clinches seemed a welcome respite for both weary warriors.
One judge favored Hemphill by score of 39-37 but was outvoted by the other two judges who turned in cards of 38-38, ruling this bout a draw. This reporter also scored the bout 38-38.
A third bout would be welcomed by both boxers, as well as the fans. Hemphill is now 6-6-2 (3) and Carr is 4-1-1 (3).
Popular Heavyweight Anthony Gatt was combing back from a three-year hiatus as he took on Raymere Palmer, making his pro debut.
Gatt, 208, West Chester PA, made his first night back in the ring a short one, as he blasted Palmer, 189, Northampton PA, in less than a minute. Gatt opened firing right hands and Palmer walked right into the onslaught, going down from a flush right hand only seconds into the bout. After seeing Palmer rise on unsteady legs, Gatt immediately went for the kill, landing several flush shots that sent Palmer reeling before he eventually collapsed, forcing Shawn Clark to stop the contest 47 seconds into the opening round.
Gatt keeps his perfect record intact at 5-0 (4), while Palmer loses his pro debut and now resides at 0-1.
In a light-heavyweight bout, Reuel Williams, 172, Wilmington DE, won a unanimous decision over Rey Ruiz, 174, Philadelphia.
Williams boxed well while Ruiz was tentative, and biting on every feint. Williams started setting up his punches in the 2nd round, rocking Ruiz, with a series of left hook-right hand combinations. Ruiz finally started to pick up the pace and unleash his offense in the 3rd round, while Williams countered with short uppercuts. Needing to win the 4th and final round to salvage a draw, Ruiz threw few punches and let Williams control the pace with his jab and left hook.
Williams was awarded the decision on all cards by the scores of 39-37 (twice) and 40-35. Williams now stands at 5-1 and Ruiz falls to 8-4-3 (4).
The opening bout of the evening saw a devastating knockout with Stephan Alexander sending a hush silence over the crowd with a frightening knockout of Moises Calderon.
Calderon, 134, Philadelphia punched wildly from the start, while the southpaw Alexander, 133, Norfolk VA, displayed some slick moves, in slipping and sliding away from Calderon’s offensive outbursts and returning fire with effective counter punches. Alexander was in control for most of the first round before being staggered by a monster Calderon left hook. Alexander was able to regroup and hold on until the bell.
Calderon, inspired by his success late in the previous round, continued his attack. Both boxers stood toe-to-toe for an exchange which Alexander connected first and better, leveling Calderon with a brutal combination. Alexander first landed a straight left which short-circuited Calderon and started his slow descent to the canvas, during which Alexander landed two more bombs, before Calderon finally hit the canvas unconscious, where Shawn Clark immediately waved the bout off and signaled for medical attention.
Calderon was on the canvas for several minutes but was quickly attended to and administered oxygen. He was finally able to stand, albeit wobbly, and leave the ring under his own power.
Alexander, a veteran of an extensive amateur career of over 100 bouts, had managers and promoters wooing him after the bout. He wins his pro debut and is now 1-0 (1) while Calderon falls to 0-1.
The next scheduled card at the New Alhambra in South Philadelphia is Friday, September 21 at 7:30 pm.
BELL PREPARES FOR TOUGH BOUT
Posted on | August 25, 2007 | 2 Comments
Andy can’t wait for first Bell
Andy Bell has gone to Tenerife ahead of his forthcoming inaugural English Super-Flyweight Title but claims it has been no holiday.
While most British people on the Spanish island arrive for a relaxing break, the Doncaster boxer has been training hard to get ready for his fight against fellow Yorkshireman Robert Nelson at the The Dome at Doncaster Lakeside on Friday, September 7 in a show to be screened live on Sky Sports.
The show, in association with Title Partners GoldenPalace.com, features Bradford’s Junior Witter in a defence of his WBC Light-Welterweight Title against Guyana’s Vivian Harris as top of the bill.
Bell, 22, is chief support and the Doncaster boxer is confident of keeping his home town support happy on the night thanks to training abroad.
Bell – the British Masters and Midlands Area Bantamweight Champion – sees victory as taking him a step closer to a shot at the British Title next year.
“This is my toughest fight yet so that’s why I have come abroad for a couple of weeks,” said Andy, who returns to England on Tuesday.
“I’m running up the mountain and on the beach here and because of the altitude it’s tougher to train out here. I feel the difference and I’m going to be in top shape.
“I’ve beaten Mo Khaled and Delroy Spencer who he could only draw with, so that has given me some hope as well. I beat them both on points and felt I won every round.
“I’ve gone ten rounds before when I beat Khaled for the British Masters Title in June. I’ve fought four times in four months so I’m feeling fit and ready for this.
“If I win this title, I reckon I will be ready for a shot at the British Title after another fight.
“I fight in the colours of Doncaster Rovers and fighting in my home town in front of my home fans will be a big boost.”
Hennessy Sports in Assosiation with GoldenPalace.com Proudly Present
“Vicious Hitters” @ the Doncaster Dome
Friday 7th September 2007.
Doors 6pm, Boxing Starts 6.30pm.
Ticket Prices:
· Premium Ringside £200 – Reserved with access to VIP Bar
· Inner Ringside £150 – Reserved with access to VIP Bar
· Outer Ringside £60 – Reserved
· Premium Unreserved (ground floor tiered) £50
· Unreserved (balcony) £40
For Tickets call the Box Office on: 01302 370777 or book via the web: www.the-dome.co.uk
12×3 WBC Light Welterweight World Championship
Junior Witter (Bradford ENGLAND) vs Vivian Harris (New York USA)
10×3 English Super Flyweight Championship
Robert Nelson (Bradford) vs Andy Bell (Doncaster)
8 x 3 Lightweight
Lee Meager (Salford) vs TBA ()
6 x 3 Lightweight
Nadeem Siddique (Bradford) vs Tom Glover (Maldon)
4 x 3 Light Middleweight
Andy Butlin (Huddersfield) vs Karl Chiverton (Mansfield)
4 x 3 – Light Heavyweight
Danny Grainger (Chesterfield) vs TBC
4 x 3 – Lightweight
Femi Fehintola (Bradford) vs Matthew Martin Lewis (Colchester)
ends
ANDRE BERTO ADDED TO TAYLOR VS. PAVLIK CARD
Posted on | August 25, 2007 | No Comments
—FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—
DiBella Entertainment Presents….in association with Top Rank, Inc
ANDRE BERTO
WILL FIGHT CO-MAIN EVENT ON
JERMAIN TAYLOR vs KELLY PAVLIK
Unbeaten Welterweight Will Face David Estrada
NEW YORK, Friday, August 24 – Unbeaten welterweight Andre Berto (19-0, 16 KOs) will get a chance to prove why the critics are raving about him when he faces world title challenger David Estrada on September 29 at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J. Berto has been rated by nearly every major boxing publication and web site as one of the game’s top talents under 25 years old.
Berto, 23, is that rare combination of speed and power, of finesse and brute strength. A member of the 2004 Haitian Olympic boxing team, Berto has been so dominant that 12 of his 16 knockouts have been in three rounds or less.
The Florida resident is thrilled to appear in his biggest fight in the co-featured bout to the middleweight championship between Jermain Taylor (27-0-1, 17 KOs) and Kelly Pavlik (31-0, 28 KOs), which is being promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Top Rank Inc.
“It’s going to be an action packed, throwback night of boxing. I am honored to be the co-feature on the Taylor/Pavlik fight card. As always, I will train my hardest and put on the best possible performance for my fans,” said Andre Berto. Berto is coming off a unanimous 10-round decision over durable veteran Cosme Rivera on July 27. It was the first time he had gone the distance in 15 bouts, since a Feb. 24, 2005 four-round decision over David Neal. He had 14 consecutive knockouts after the Neal bout.
“Andre Berto has made the transition from prospect to contender. On September 29th he will be tested by one of the very best welterweights in the division, David Estrada. This is a sensational television opener to a sensational main event,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment.
Berto’s rise to the top will be challenged, though, by Estrada (21-3, 12 KOs), who has been in the ring with the likes of Sugar Shane Mosley and Kermit Cintron, the current IBF welterweight champion.
Estrada, who was a PAL national champion in 1997, was 50-10 as an amateur. “I’m excited about being the co-feature on the Taylor vs Pavlik fight, but what I’m very excited about doing is beating Andre Berto and getting my rematch with Cintron,” said Estrada..
Tickets, priced at $400, $300, $200, $100 and $50, are now on sale and can be purchased at the Boardwalk Hall box office, by calling Ticketmaster at 1-800-736-1420 or by visiting
www.ticketmaster.com .
PICS AND QUOTES FOR SATURDAY ELITEXC FIGHTS
Posted on | August 24, 2007 | No Comments
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DAVID HUCKABA NEW OPPONENT FOR MURPHY;
SHOXC FINAL THOUGHTS AND QUOTES
‘
Friday, Aug. 24, 2007,
Vicksburg Convention Center, Vicksburg, Mississippi
In the most highly anticipated MMA grudge rematch in years, “Krazy Horse” Charles Bennett (18-13-2) faces Victor “Joe Boxer’’ Valenzuela on ShoXC: Elite Challenger Series tomorrow/Saturday, Aug. 25, on SHOWTIME (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast).
In an excellent co-feature at Vicksburg Convention Center in Vicksburg, Miss., Seth “The Dr.’’ Kleinbeck (7-3) faces Jaime Jara (16-4).
In other bouts on the telecast, David Huckaba (5-1), who is a replacement for Tony Bonello, who withdrew due to medical reasons, meets Jon Murphy (3-2), Ray Lizama (5-4) will be opposed by Hector Urbina (8-3) and Umar Love (5-1) takes on Brandon Tierney (5-0).
Selected Quotes:
“KRAZY HORSE’’ CHARLES BENNETT
“I am 99.9 percent sure I am going to knock “Joe Boxer’’ out and win in about four minutes. The only chance he has is if I don’t show, and I am definitely planning to show up Saturday night.
“I don’t even think about this guy, that’s how super confident I am. He’s an old man. He belongs in an old folks’ home, which is where I am going to send him.
“I don’t want to take anything away from “Joe Boxer’’ but that is only because there isn’t anything there for me to take.
“I am going to break his ribs.’’
VICTOR “JOE BOXER’’ VALENZUELA
“I don’t know of any other fight in MMA history where two guys hate each other as much as we do because I know I really hate him and I am going to shut him up once and for all.
“Finally, the time is here. I wish the fight was today. It is by far the biggest of my career, definitely do or die. But I am ready.
“Bennett has no skills, no style, and no ability whatsoever. He is just a street fighter who yaks, yaks, yaks. Saturday, he’ll get a chance to back up all his words, but I don’t think he can.
“I have a great game plan. I am coming to fight. I may not just go in like and idiot and fight his fight, but I know what I have to do and I am going to do it.’’
SETH KLEINBECK
“This is going to be a tough fight. He is a tough guy who is on a big winning steak, I expect him to fight really hard. There’s no way this cannot be an entertaining fight.
“I feel great and really confident. I don’t expect him to just bang like he did last time. But if he wants to stand up that would be perfect for me. None of my fights have ever lasted more than two or three licks. That’s all it takes for me to win.
“I have never been knocked down, hurt or knocked out. This is another great opportunity for me to fight on SHOWTIME and I plan to make the best of it.
JAIME JARA
“They told me after my last fight I’d be fighting again soon, so for this fight I’ve had about four weeks notice. Last time, I only had a couple days so this is like an eternity. Ideally, I would love to train a full eight weeks for a fight, but the more you win, the more they want you to fight and I take fights against anybody, anytime, anywhere.
“I only know that this guy is a doctor and that he’s got a great sprawl. But I have won 10 straight and haven’t lost in three years.
“I love fighting on SHOWTIME and I am excited again to be able to perform on such a big stage. My last fight turned out to be a slugfest; that isn’t exactly my game, but I will do whatever it takes to win.’’
RAY LIZAMA
“I am told that Urbina is a decent wrestler, and I like to keep it on the feet so we will see what happens. I have only had 2 ½ weeks to prepare, but this was too good of an opportunity to skip.
“I am beyond excited about fighting on SHOWTIME. This is going to be a great fight and I am confident I will win’’
JON MURPHY
“Thanks to the Internet, I have been able to view a little of Huckaba’s fights, so that really helps with the anxiety. It is better for me to fight someone I am a little familiar with than going in against a total unknown.
I feel I have a good all-around game and am really looking forward to putting on a good show for the fans in attendance and those watching on SHOWTIME. This is a huge fight for me in that regard.’’
HECTOR URBINA
“I am from Archbold, Ohio, but I have friends and family in Texas and they all will be watching. They are all pretty excited about me fighting on SHOWTIME and so am I.’’
About Pro Elite, Inc.
ProElite Inc. delivers the most exciting entertainment experience in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) with live arena-based entertainment events, cable television programming on Showtime Networks and community-driven interactive broadband entertainment via the Internet. ProElite embraces MMA with the highest levels of honor, integrity, discipline and self-esteem all the while remaining inclusive for fighters, fans and schools. ProElite’s live fight division, EliteXC, delivers spectacular live MMA fight events that showcase the world’s top fighters. ProElite’s interactive business, ProElite.com, capitalizes on the growing popularity of the sport of mixed martial arts by building a community of mixed martial arts enthusiasts. In addition to streaming the most exciting live fights to the web, ProElite expands the fan base of the sport by providing a comprehensive set of online social networking tools for fans, fighters and organizations. ProElite.com – Empowering the Fight Community TM
About Showtime Networks Inc.
Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME® TOO™, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILYZONE® and TMC XTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL HD™, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND™ and THE MOVIE CHANNEL ON DEMAND™. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI is also an owner and manager of SUNDANCE CHANNEL, a venture of NBC Universal, Robert Redford and SNI. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME® PPV.
HOLLI’S UFC 74 PICKS
Posted on | August 24, 2007 | No Comments
Lady’s Choice: UFC 74 Respect Picks
By Holli Yargo Hearne
Representing a growing percentage of the mixed martial arts fan base, these UFC 74 Respect picks are lady’s choice. Tomorrow night will tell how well this lady knows her UFC.
While many of the fights on the 74 card will likely not be televised, the stacked line up is still certainly worth mentioning in its entirety. Not one of these fighters has a shabby record, though some clearly have more experience than others.
A few of the fights appear mismatched when just looking at the numbers but all of tomorrow night’s combatants have tremendous skill. At least one contender is already legendary with others nipping at his heels for similar status.
Couture vs. Gonzaga
After retiring following his 2006 KO loss to Chuck Liddell, Randy “The Natural” Couture returned to the cage in grand style. In true David versus Goliath fashion, Couture took an impressive and unanimous decision win over Tim Sylvia to gain the UFC Heavyweight belt this past March.
Gabriel Gonzaga dropped the jaws of MMA fans around the world when he knocked out Cro Cop with devastating head kick. Looking at Gonzaga’s remarkable record, it is clear that he is comfortable on the ground and on his feet.
This is a tough fight to call with one fighter being an icon and the other being 4-0 in the UFC and coming in with a respectable 9-1 overall professional record. Still, I’m giving this fight to Couture. He’s in the best shape of his career and frankly, I just want him to win. He’s Captain America, for crying out loud. I’m predicting Couture winning by submission.
Huerta vs. Crane
Both fighters have impressive records but Huerta clearly has the greater experience. Huerta impressed UFC fans with his dynamic fight against newcomer Leonard Garcia at UFC 69. Although Crane has an 8-0 professional record, Huerta has had over 20 fights with his only professional loss being to IFL’s Ryan “The Lion” Schultz. I believe Huerta, as cocky and adorable as he is, will take this fight by (T)KO.
Koscheck vs. St-Pierre
Josh Koscheck showed he was more than a wrestler at UFC 69 when he and Diego Sanchez kept it on their feet for what was a technically great boxing match, even if it was a snoozefest of an MMA bout. Fans at the Toyota Center in Houston, TX found the two fights that broke out in the stands far more entertaining. Nevertheless, his new fistic skills should keep GSP from taking the wrestler for granted. I’m picking Georges St-Pierre to win by (T)KO.
Pellegrino vs. Stevenson
Kurt Pellegrino has a very nice 16-2 professional record but is missing any big named opponents. Joe “Daddy” Stevenson, on the other hand, has walked through fights with the charismatic likes of Melvin Guillard and Yves Edwards. Stevenson has twice as many fights as Pellegrino, sporting a potent record of 32-7. Stevenson should pull out a win and I’m expecting it to come by (T)KO.
Patrick Cote vs. Kendall Grove
Having lost in the past to Tito Ortiz, it can’t be lost on Patrick Cote that he’s going up against Tito’s 6’9” mini-me. Grove is a lanky Hawaiian who is freakishly flexible on the ground with patented Team Punishment ground and pound. Cote has defeated proven opponents such as Jason McDonald while Grove has lost to Joe Riggs and the IFL’s Savant Young. They’re pretty evenly matched but Grove seems a little more aggressive. I expect Grove to win by (T)KO.
Jensen vs. Leites
Ryan Jensen and Thales Leites have very similar records but Leites has had the better fights. I’m feeling the Brazilian will finish this bout with a submission win.
Sobral vs. Heath
Renato Sobral has taken some flack for losing spirit after his loss to Chuck Liddell. There is no shame in losing to a champion, so I am not believing the negative hype. I imagine Sobral doesn’t either. This is definitely one of the fights I am very interested in seeing but it probably won’t be televised. That’s a shame. I fully expect Sobral to walk through this one, winning by submission.
Mir vs. Hardonk
Following his 2004 motorcycle accident, Frank Mir returned to the cage heavier than ever with a noticeable deficit in his cardio. He lost 2 of his first 3 fights upon his return but he’s expected to be in top shape tomorrow night. Antoni Hardonk is an accomplished kickboxer who has yet to demonstrate any effective ground skills. If the old Frank Mir shows up and gets the take down, he’ll win this fight by submission. Hardonk has lethal legs and Mir shouldn’t take him for granted. No matter how this fight ends, Mir is already making a name for himself as a very good color commentator for the WEC.
Guida vs. Aurelio
Clay Guida has a 21-5 record but is coming off a two-fight losing streak. Prior to that, he defeated the IFL’s nearly undefeated Bart Paleszewski and the compelling IFL lightweight alternate Joe Martin. Marcus Aurelio has a 14-4 record but is a veteran of Pride Fighting Championship. My sources tell me that Guida will defeat Aurelio by (T)KO.
I’m no clairvoyant, but only time will tell if my predictions are correct. Come on fellas, what do you think? Have I nailed this thing?
GLEASON’S GYM NEWS
Posted on | August 24, 2007 | No Comments
If you buy a $300 ticket for the Black-Tie Boxing event being held live on SNY on Wednesday, September 5th at Cippriani Wall Street in NYC, you can then use your ticket stub to enjoy the DUMBO Fight Night at St. Ann’s Warehouse located at 38 Water Street.
For each $300 ticket sold $100 will be a charitable contribution. $50 will go to the Gleason’s “Give a Kid a Dream” program and $50 will go to the DUMBO Improvement District.
BOXING IN NEW YORK CITY GOES UPSCALE. The most expensive boxing table ever (Party of Ten $100,000 with caviar and champagne) is being presented by Gallagher Productions and Dibella Entertainment. The show will feature “Big” Mike Grant and Israel “King Kong” Garcia. Other prominent NYC and Gleason’s boxers on the card include Maureen Shea, Jorge Teron, Jimmy Cambell (from England), and Abdelghani Bousinas (from France).
DUMBO Fight Night
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH, 8 PM
AT: ST ANN’S WAREHOUSE
38 WATER STREET.
(Around the corner from Gleason’s Gym)
Playing into DUMBO’s rough manufacturing infrastructure and today’s world-class cultural reputation, DUMBO Fight Night combines the beauty of the arts in stark contrast to the force of hand-to-hand combat. Accompanying the action in the ring, attendees will partake in some friendly competition of their own, bid on silent auction items, and enjoy a special menu catered by Rice. All funds raised from DUMBO Fight Night will be dedicated to the maintenance of our beloved Belgian block streets.
This is a fund raiser for the DUMBO Improvement District. Admission to the event is $50.00 per person. The evenings festivities start at 6 p.m. and conclude with the Boxing Show. The bouts are sanctioned by USA Boxing Metro.
If you wish to participate on this “pre-matched” show call New York’s number one matchmaker, Angela Querol, at 718 797 2872.
ALL ARTISTS OF ANY MEDIUM!!
September 28-30, 2007
Gleason’s Gym will become an Exhibition space and gallery during the 11th Annual “Dumbo Art Under the Bridge Festival.” The weekend is September 28-29-30, 2007.
If you wish to exhibit your art, photographs, sculptures, painting – any type of art – then contact Bruce Silverglade at 718 797 2872. There is no charge to show your work and no commission when you sell your work. The only requirement is that the work has something to do with Boxing.
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