Melligen Coasts To a Unanimous Victory Over African Contender

Big props to my boy Mighty Mark Jason Melligen for winning a much needed victory over Anges Adjaho last Saturday, July 3rd. Although it was a tough fight and Adjaho came out swinging (in spurts, that is), Melligen racked up the points to get the all the judges’ nods after 10 grueling (and not so grueling) rounds.

While many are happy with Melligen’s victory, I think I am not the only one who is partly disappointed with his performance. Although Melligen and his camp already explained that they did not expect Adjaho to be bigger than they supposed, Melligen should have worked his performance up. It was not a so-so performance from the Filipino. But it was not a blockbuster fight either.

Still, congratulations are in order and I really hope Mighty Mark would improve sooner than later. The welterweight house is packed with talent and he will need to hone his skills to their sharpest ever if he wants a shot at world titleholders like Andre Berto and Shane Mosley (hey, his belt was not on the line when he fought Mayweather, FYI).


Photo from Mark Jason Melligen's Facebook Account
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On a very different note, my PERSONAL take on another website offended a lot of boxing fans. Filipinos mostly, which were the subject of the said article. Now I did said in the article title’s that it was PERSONAL. MY OWN. MY OPINION. And there was even a disclaimer on it. And I get tons of emails saying how I am wrong.

Well, I did get it wrong when I mentioned Solis (Jorge) when I meant Sanchez (Salvador) Don’t get my drift? Read all about it here. And if you do, please place your comments here so I can debate and take on all of you who disagree.

Melligen Will Own Anges

I am basically saying this because I am a Filipino. But apart from that, I believe Mighty Mark Melligen has all the tools he needs to beat Anges Adjaho. That said, Adjaho is no doubt a tough man to beat. A former continental champion and a top tier contender, Adjaho is somewhat a hard man.

But I am confident that Melligen will come out victorious for the following reasons:

#1 Melligen is hell bent on revenge against Michel Rosales, who was supposed to face him. Rosales backed out, opening the door for Adjaho to come in. If I were Mighty Mark, I would not put to waste all that hate energy and instead, I will channel them to Adjaho.

#2 Melligen is hungry for victory and recognition. He is a man who wants a title shot and this is a very big fight for Melligen. A must win situation in fact. And I would not be surprised if Melligen’s hunger would be his drive to beat the African.

#3 This Bacolod City-native trains at Floyd Mayweather’s personal gym. Surely, the former pound for pound champ must have rubbed off some of his skills and passed down a few lessons to the young welterweight prospect.

#4 Filipino Pride is at stake. After a series of Filipino losses (Viloria, Julaton, Ciso Morales, Marvin Sonsona, and Rodel Mayol), a number of Filipinos are now winning again (Melindo, Bon Jovi Canillas, and just recently Ana Julaton). Melligen feels the pressure to win and he will deliver.

#5 Melligen is just a bad ass motherf@ck#r!

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Photo from Mark Jason Melligen's Facebook Account

Prize Money Should Be PRIZED Money

It is relatively hard to stay on top of the game and remain there until you retire. Many elite boxers have enjoyed and cherished the feeling of being at the top of the hill that some of them do not know when to step down when they have to step down. In most cases, some prize fighters who have been in the limelight for too long loved the fame and the glory that they do not see their own descent.

BANG THE BOOK!

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Another Filipino Bites the Canvas

First it was Brian Viloria. Then Marvin Sonsona. Then Ana Julaton. Seems like the topnotch Filipino boxers are getting pounded one by one. And last Sunday, another high profile Filipino champion got his share of pounding.

Former WBC light flyweight champion Rodel Mayol got dethroned by Mexican rival Nino Romero, in a bout that showcased how to bring on the headbutts and lose all the way. Mayol was clearly dominating the early rounds, outboxing Romero who tried to bring the fight to the Filipino but could not just land the telling blows.

Bernabe Concepcion: Lamb To The Slaughter

Allow me to be blunt. Bernabe Concepcion (28-3-1, 15 KOs), or Abe, as Concepcion is fondly called by his peers and people who are close to him, is a lamb to the slaughter. On July 10th, Abe will face what would be perhaps the toughest assignment of his young career – wrench the WBO featherweight title from the undefeated Juan Manuel Lopez of Puerto Rico (28-0, 25 KOs). Abe is a talented fighter no doubt, but one that has still a long way to go before sharing a ring with elite competition.

No Mayweather? Probable Pacquiao Opponents Line Up

At this point in time, nobody knows whether or not Floyd Mayweather will once again go into a hiatus and leave the boxing world hinging on what could have been an explosive showdown between himself and Fighter of the Decade Manny Pacquiao. But in any case Mayweather does make true of his statements and leave boxing again and leave his crusade for drug-free boxing matches and “focus” on his other endeavors, here are some good fights Pacquiao and his camp may consider for his one last hurrah before the Fighting Pride of the Philippines shifts his attention to the Philippine politics. 

Manny Pacquiao vs. Miguel Cotto II (Light Middleweight) 

Miguel Cotto tops the list of possible replacements should Pacquiao-Mayweather will never materialize. Cotto is coming off from a fresh win over former WBA light middleweight champion Yuri Foreman and rematch between the two presents a huge significance for Pacquiao. A victory over Cotto at light middleweight will give Pacquiao his 8th title in eight divisions, which would definitely up his ante exponentially. However, Pacquiao might be pushing himself if he does go north the scales and add more weight. 

And then there is also the element of revenge. Cotto suffered a beatdown and should they fight again, expect the Puerto Rican to return the favor.

Holyfield-Botha: Both Should Really Consider Retirement

I have said this once and I won’t be stopping there – Evander Holyfield needs to retire. There is no point for boxers his stature to go on and fight for the sake of glory when they basked in it during the pinnacle of their career. Of course, it is quite understandable that the Real Deal wants to retire with a world champion belt in his waist. Who doesn’t want to go out in the blaze of glory?

Adam Carolla: Unfunny Comic Disses Pacman, Pinas

A lot of my friends in the boxing scene, from the Great White Gorilla to the Preacher Man, have something to say to the unfunny Adam Carolla, a promising comic who was never able to break the barrier and cross over to mainstream popularity. Being Filipino myself, I cannot help but brand this guy’s brand of humor nothing short of insulting and degrading.

Too Giddy For Mayweather-Mosley (GO MOSLEY!)

Mayweather-Mosley is now less than a month’s away from happening and honestly, I cannot make a concrete prediction on who can be the victor on May 1st. Floyd Mayweather, 40-0, 25 KOs, is a slick defensive genius who is pretty efficient with defense and pops an effective punch or two on the counter. On the opposite corner, you have Sugar Shane Mosley, who at 38 years old, boasts of a fine, impressive record of 46-5, 39 KOs, and prefers an all-out action throughout the fight.

El Terrible Eager to Fight Pacquiao (Again), JMM

For some reasons, Erik “El Terrible” Morales believes he has what it takes to compete on a higher level. After a very imposing victory over former lightweight titlist Jose Alfaro of Nicaragua, one has to ask, can he really take on the top welterweights out there?

After one fight, no matter how impressive his win was, one cannot certainly say that Morales can contend with even the top five welterweight marquees. At 36 years old, he is in an age where boxers are already in the winter of their careers. Sadly, the Morales victory only fuels the Mexican legend’s drive to push his very much ill-advised comeback.

The Fighter's Mind Press Release

THE FIGHTER’S MIND

INSIDE THE MENTAL GAME

SAM SHERIDAN

Author of A Fighter’s Heart

“Tirelessly curious and game, deftly sidestepping pretentiousness and macho posturing and all the other usual traps that snare writers who delve into the form and meaning of fighting, Sam Sheridan seeks out fearsome teachers and comes away with a rare prize:  a deep understanding of the mental aspect of the fighter's craft and what it can teach us about how—and how not—to live.”—Carlo Rotella, author of Cut Time: An Education at the Fights

“Sheridan follows his successful A Fighter’s Heart with a wide-ranging exploration of how

great ‘fighters’ succeed. . . . Like its predecessor, this book should find an audience well

beyond the ring.” —Booklist

“Should be a knockout with fight fans.” —Library Journal

For Darchinyan, Donaire Fight Is An Imperative

No matter who Vic Darchinyan fights, as long as his loss to Nonito Donaire remains unavenged and the guy is out there winning, the Raging Bull will definitely have a hard time emerging from the shadow of that knockout. And if he wants to take another crack at Donaire, he better put a great show against top contender Rodrigo Guerrero (13-1-1, 9 KOs).

Darchinyan (33-2-1, 27 KOs), who is slated to defend his WBA/WBC super flyweight belts, admits that he has this burning desire to face Donaire once again. But time may be a bit short on him as Donaire is increasingly becoming a more bankable fighter than he is.

Make no mistake, Donaire has several doors of opportunities opening for him. Lucrative fights are looming over the horizon for the Filipino Flash. Bouts with Yuriorkis Gamboa and Juan Manuel Lopez loom for Donaire should he decide to come up in weight. Victories over either one will elevate Donaire to a whole new level of boxing super stardom.

Guerrero is no pushover though. He is looking to extend his 11-win streak, with his last bout ending in a third round knockout against Rey Lopez last December. The brash Darchinyan is coming off from a lost in his bid to capture a title in the bantamweight division against Joseph Agbeko. In terms of confidence, the Mexican is definitely filled to the brim.

But it is hard to discount Darchinyan though, with his last two wins are over Mexican warriors Cristian Mijares and Jorge Arce. He is definitely a force in the super flyweight division and a win over Guerrero will set a stage for a Donaire-Darchinyan rematch.

And truth be told, Darchinyan needs this fight with Donaire and he needs to set it up now. But for the moment, he has to deal with Guerrero first and dominate. And should Darchinyan win, pray that his promotional outfit would finally work with the Donaire camp for the much-awaited second meeting between the two.

Otherwise, the Filipino Flash will inevitably move on and seek higher purses and higher competition and leave the Australian in a legacy limbo.

Send your comments, suggestions, and violent reactions tokragpala@8countnews.com

Pinoy Power 3/Latin Fury 13: Champs Versus Chumps

Despite the prestige and all the hype, the two main events of Pinoy Power 3/Latin Fury 13 featured world class champions versus average Joes. Many have predicted (and they proved to be correct) that both Nonito Donaire and Fernando Montiel would win their fights respectively. However, this was supposed to an event that billed the best of the Philippines against the best of Latin boxing.

Ciso Morales, though undefeated, was clearly raw and green against the seasoned Montiel. The Mexican brought the fight to a quick conclusion with a powerful left uppercut to the midsection of Kid Terrible. Morales obviously did not prepare his torso hard enough to endure vicious body attacks.

On the other hand, Manuel Vargas was clearly outmatched, outclassed, and bit more than he can chew when he signed up o fight Donaire. Of course, one can argue that Vargas has little time to prepare. But Guerrero was no different as he would have ended up in the canvas against the Filipino Flash.

It is a shame that this fight promised a series of showdowns between the best of Filipino and Latin boxers. The hype and the promotion have done their part of fanning the flames to spark interests among Filipino and Latin boxing fans. Sadly, what fans got were two main events that pitted elite warriors versus foot soldiers.

Not taking anything away from Donaire and Montiel, but it would have been better if their opposition were somehow legitimate and threatening enough. Ciso Morales, who suffered the first loss of his career, is still young and the experience will definitely teach him a lot of things – fighting at the elite level is no joke.

Hopefully, the next time Top Ranks concocts another Pinoy Power-Latin Fury spectacle, they’ll give fans a war.

Others News

Gerry Penalosa of the Philippines failed to bounce back from his recent loss to Juan Manuel Lopez last year in a very strong and brave effort against Puerto Rico’s Eric Morel. While considered as Philippines’ most technically sound boxer, Penalosa fought Morel’s fight, who box intelligently, using his size and reach advantage to their maximum potential.

Of course, Morel was seen excessively holding down Penalosa’s head, which warranted a deduction or two. However, no deductions came, which could have changed the results of the fight if they were implemented. Another note to consider is that that it was a close, tight fight. Nothing to be ashamed of for Penalosa, who really needs to hang up his gloves and call it quits after losing two fights in a row.

Perhaps the most exciting round would be Bernabe Concepcion vs. Mario Santiago. Both men gave boxing fans a dose pure boxing action from start to finish, with Concepcion flooring his rival once in the 6th round and Santiago retaliated with a rally in the final push. Concepcion’s win over SAntiago sets him a showdown with Puerto Rican superstar Juan Manuel Lopez.

Although untelevised, Philippines’ Mark Jason Melligen had a good time dismantling Raymund Gatica. Meliigen finished the bout with TKO victory in the 6th round.

Filipino boxing legends Manny Pacquiao and Z Gorres were at ringside to show support for their Filipino brothers.

Roger Mayweather: Crack History 101

And the accusations still flies even after WBO welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao moved on and laid his belt on the line against top welterweight contender Joshua Clottey. This time, Roger Mayweather now named the substance he “knows” Pacquiao is using – A-Side meth.

And Mayweather also threw in some history too. A-Side meth has been in the scene since for centuries now and was critical during the war between Filipinos and Americans that occur approximately 500 years ago. And get this, American were already using 45 calibers against Filipinos, but the bullets were just bouncing off them Filipinos’ backsides.

All these occurred 500 years ago.

While many would just pass this rambling as some figure of speech, Mayweather was really convinced that Pacquiao is indeed on A-Side meth, and that this performance-enhancing drug was used by Filipino soldiers against American forces. He was so convinced that he was speaking the truth and at the same time, dumb.

So to really put things in the light, here are some FACTS to help you judge whether Mayweather is right or otherwise.

The first time United States got tangled with the Philippine forces was in 1899, which was sometime around 111 years ago. Far from the 500 years Mayweather was pretty much bent on declaring.

45 caliber rounds were not widely used until 1911 when the US Army adopted the Automatic Colt Pistol as the standard small arms of the organization.

500 years ago, around 1510, the Philippines was not even discovered by Spanish explorers. The Spaniards landed on March 1521.

The list goes on. But it seems Mayweather allegations of steroid use by Pacquiao now borders on the ludicrous. But one thing is for sure, whatever lawsuit Pacquiao has thrown the Mayweathers, Roger is clearly undaunted.

Mayweather: Fight or Flee

Can it get any better than this? Finally, Mayweather can’t say no without looking like a coward.

The pressure is now on Floyd Mayweather to fight Shane Mosley after Mosley’s intended opponent, Andre Berto, withdrew from the January 30th bout because of the loss of loved ones and the emotional burden he carries after a huge earthquake struck Haiti, his parents’ home country. If Mayweather ducks this one, the further damages the move would create to his already damaged legacy would be irreversible.

Mayweather, who used to call the shots and pick opponents who pose little or no threat at all, is now backed into a corner and the only way out is either he fights Mosley, or flees from the scene. The first option is his best choice. After the failed negotiations between his side and Manny Pacquiao’s camp, most of the boxing fans and a number of the boxing community blame him for the fallout.

To add more damage to his reputation, Pacquiao opted to fight and defend his WBO welterweight belt against former welterweight champ Joshua Clottey, a durable and tough boxer who is also considered one of the top ranking welters. Clottey is a high risk-low reward fight for Pacquiao and by taking him on, Pacquiao looked more impressive than Mayweather.

If Mayweather rejects to fight Mosley and decides to flee and look for easy matchups, then he might as well retire again and for good. Any other fight, unless it is Paul Williams, is utterly unacceptable and a great disservice to the sport and to the fans.

The Berto withdrawal have presented Mayweather with a golden opportunity. He better not waste it.

Filipino Pugilists Trump Contenders in Cebu

Bakbakan sa Sinulog was a complete success with the Filipino pugilists sweeping through their foreign opponents convincingly and in very emphatic fashion. ALA Boxing Promotions’ prodigies and the event’s double-headers AJ “Bazooka” Banal and Milan Melindo have successfully trumped their opposition and further improve their records and their chances for a world stage.

Banal effectively used his height, speed, and strength advantage in dispatching Cecilio Boga Santos of Mexico in the fourth round of their non-title bantamweight bout. Santos landed some solid shots but was not quite consistent as he struggled with the young Banal’s physical advantages. The Filipino took no time in administering serious combinations with blistering speed to end the night for the Mexican Santos.

For the main event, Milan Melindo took on the young and slick California-native Anthony Villareal in a very exciting exchange. Villareal, the game champion, was very effective with his low-guard style until he got decked to the canvas by a solid right hook from the Filipino in the first round. Villareal was clearly stunned by Melindo’s power and was very careful throughout the fight.

Melindo was very patient and cool, although he kept on pressing the taller and bigger Villareal. Melindo concocted several combinations that would force the American champion to back down. But Villareal had his moments as well. He clearly won rounds 6, 8, and 10, evidently when he used his quickness and slick defense to slip Melindo’s punches and lands some solid shots of his own.

Round 12 proved to be a thrilling segment of the fight as Melindo, who was clearly ahead on points, decided to trade with the strong-punching Villareal. However, the Filipino proved to be a tough customer as Melindo and Villareal went for a knockout during the dying seconds of the fight.

Melindo won a rightfully-deserved unanimous decision. I scored the fight 7 rounds to 3 in favor of the new WBC Youth Intercontinental Flyweight champion.

Anthony Villareal vs Milan Melindo Round by Round - Bakbakan sa Sinulog

Round 1

Both men are feeling each other out. Melindo stalks Villareal, who potshots him with jabs. Melindo catches Villareal with a right hook and sents him to teh canvas. Villareal clearly dazed and holds to survive the round.

10-8 Melindo

Round 2

Strong right hands from Melindo stagger Villarreal. Villareal recovers. Melindo clearly the busy fighter.

10-9 Melindo

Round 3

Villareal lands strong jabs and hooks. Melindo unfazed and fires back with power shots. Villareal caught a straight right and holds. Melindo all the way.

10-9 Melindo

Round 4

Back and forth action with Melindo giving out more. Melindo catches Villareal with another right hook. Villareal counters with his left.

10-9 Melindo

Round 5

Villareal tries to land some power shots but it's Melindo who is landing more meaningful blows. Melindo is dishing out punishmnet. Villareal is clearly running out of steam.

10-9 Melindo

Round 6
Villareal seems to come back in this round. He's landing cleaner shots now. Melindo gives out his share. Villareal fires a combo to end the round.

10-9 Villareal

Round 7

Both men went all-out. Hard round to decide. But I'll give it to Melindo since he lands the more telling blows.

10-9 Melindo

Round 8

Villareal is countering well in this round, catching Melindo wiith some serious shots on the way in. Melindo staggers Villareal with another strong right hook. Villareal displayed good defense.

10-9 Villareal

Round 9

Villareal owned the first minute with good defense and landing some counters. Melindo took over and unleashes some seriuous shots to the head and body.

10-9 Melindo

Round 10

Villareal looking for a knockout. Villareal unleashing more punches than Melindo. Villareal staggers Melindo with a left hook. Melindo stands his ground and trades back.

10-9 Villareal

End of Fight

AJ "Bazooka" Banal vs Cecilio "Boga" Santos - Bakbakan sa Sinulog

Round 1

Santos starts with a jab. Banal retaliates with his own combinations. Santos fires with a couple of 1-2s. Banal finally established height and reach advantage and peppers Santos with jabs and power shots.

10-9 Banal

Round 2

Banal dishing a lot of punches. Santos fires back but not much. Santos covers up as Banal starts a body attack. Banal applies good pressure.

10-9 Banal

Round 3

Banal staggers Santos with a straight left. Banal unleashes combinations. Santos lands a few shots. Banal again with a straight left. banal with a left hook. Banal fires a 1-2 at the end of the round.

10-8 Banal

Round 4

Banal stings Santos with another straight left, Santos clearly hurt. Banal traps Santos in a corner. Barrage of punches from Banal knocks Santos out.

Banal winner by knockout.

James Bacon vs T. Singwancha Round by Round

Round 1

Bacon uses his jab effectively. Bacon staggers Singwancha with a straight right. Bacon unleashes a combo and traps Singwancha on the ropes.

Singwancha struggles with Bacon's height and reach advantage.

Rd 1- Bacon 10-9

Round 2

Singwancha mounts a body attack and repelled by Bacon. Singwancha displays good tight defense. Singwancha slips. Both exchange blows. Bacon giving out more punches.

Bacon 10-9

Round 3

Singwancha knocks Bacon down. Ref rules it a slip. Both men exchange punches. Bacon staggers Singwancha with another straight right. Bacon lands three punches before the end of the round.

Bacon 10-9

Round 4

Relentless body attack from bacon. Singwancha falls and yields.

Bacon wins by TKO 55 seconds in the 4th.

On The Verge of Living The Dream

I started out as an avid boxing fan.

My first memory that has anything to do with boxing was a classic Nintendo video game called Punch-Out! where you play a small boxer who had to whoop bigger boxers' asses. With my avid enthusiasm for the game, my dad bought me two pairs of boxing gloves for kids - one for me and another pair for those who chose to slug it out with me.

I never grew up to be a boxer, but I grew up practicing unholy idolatry for Mike Tyson, Riddick Bowe, Evander Holyfield, Oscar de la Hoya and Luisito Espinosa. I never really cared about the technical aspects of the games, weight categories and all. All I cared about was making sure I watch their fights and read the news about them.

When I reached college, I initially went for a engineering degree but decided that journalism is my path. I have always hoped that I could practice sports journalism. However, life took me on a different route and ended up in making articles for various websites, ranging from healthcare to real estate.

So I am became a boxing blogger, on the side.

So yeah, being a sports journalist became a distant, far-fetched possibility for me. I decided to channel my frustrations in writing articles about boxing, hoping it would vent any disappointments in the basement.

Call it a stroke of luck or fate, somebody did took notice. And from there, I started contributing to popular boxing websites. At the very least, my name is getting out.

And then, I got my first live assignment - go to Cebu and cover the first major boxing event in the Philippines. Well, tomorrow is fight night. But now, I can safely say, I am Frustrated Analyst no more.

On The Clottey-Foreman-Pacquiao Debate and What Mayweather Can Do To One Up Pac

Anybody who says that Yuri Foreman is a better challenge for Pacquiao than Joshua Clottey is wrong. Dead wrong.

For starters, Clottey is one of the most avoided welterweights today, a reason why he has fought only once last year - against Miguel Cotto in a fight where it could have gone either way or ended in a draw. Here is where Clottey ranked among the top welterweights today (this is my ranking by the way):

1. Manny Pacquiao
2. Shane Mosley
3. Andre Berto
4. Miguel Cotto
5. Joshua Clottey

Now, you might wonder why Pretty Boy Floyd is not included in the top five. Simple. Ask and answer yourself this question: "When was the last time Mayweather fought a true and legitimate 147 contender?"

If you dig really deep and look past behind his performance against Juan Manuel Marquez, who was a bloated lightweight during their fight (no disrespect to the Mexican warrior), it was Carlos Baldomir back in 2005. Baldomir was not even a top contender but he did campaigned extensively at the 147 territory.

Fact be told, Clottey is a dangerous route for anyone within the 147-154 range. True, Foreman could have been another historical notch for Pacquiao, an easy one, I might add. But opting to fight the formidable Clottey instead, Pacquiao has proven he is out there taking on all the best challenges available.

The native of Accra, Ghana poses a serious threat to Pacquiao. He is a strudy welterweight with solid and hard punches, an almost impregnable defense, a granite chin, and a large and towering physique which he rally puts into play. And he has never been stopped before. Cotto may have won that fight, but Clottey sure did made it a hell before losing to the Puerto Rican.

On the contrary, Foreman is not much of a threat to Pacquiao. Size may be a factor, but that's really arguable. Pacquiao has fought bigger guys and bested all of them, from David Diaz all the way to Cotto. But lest you forget, the Filipino already stated that he will stop at welterweight.

Foreman, undefeated as he is, is not really much of an exciting fighter. He has always been playing it safe. He effectively fights at a distance and prefers to potshot the other guy rather than oblige in a trade. In other words, it is going to be a long and boring night, regardless of who he is fighting. And with the physical advantages he has over the seven-division champion, it's going to be a looooong night indeed for the Filipino.

While some can and will deny that Clottey is a perfect choice for Pacquiao in the light of the failed negotiations with the Mayweather camp, it is very hard to argue that Pacquiao has taken the easy route.

And with such move, this forces Mayweather to a corner and think of options that are available to him if he wants to make a better something grander than what Pacquiao has recently done. And fights with either Matthew Hatton, whose campaigns at the welterweight division are so abysmal that he is ranked somewhere in the 30s, or Paulie Malignaggi, who is slick, fast, and brash but whose punches can hardly make an impact on anyone, are just ammunitions for more criticisms and damage an already hurting legacy.

Truth is Mayweather's is now in a position where he cannot pick a severely inferior opponent, claim another quick payday, and brag that he is the greatest. If he wants to do better than what Pacquiao has done, and that is challenge someone with serious and potent threat, then all Money May has to do is pick a fight with someone who is more menacing and more threatening than Pacquiao's choice. And to name a few, he could call out Paul Williams or Sergio Martinez, that is if he wants to battle it out in March.

Or he could weather the itch to fight (if he has it) and pick on the winner of Shane Mosley-Andre Berto. If he wants to save his legacy, that is if he still cares about such thing, considering that legcay does not pay the bills, he has to name one, top caliber opponent that can possibly beat the living daylights out of him. And win.

Mayweather is The Greatest Ducker of All-Time

Mayweather has finally done it – to show the world that his nothing but a coward who only fights opponents he knows he can beat. Many people expected that with all the potential money his fight with Pacquiao can generate, Mayweather would change his man and get it on with the Filipino boxing sensation. Money talks. Not this time however.

Am I surprised? Not one bit.

See, Mayweather has walked away from money before. Antonio Margarito, then known as the man to beat in the welterweight division and long before he was caught with illegal knuckle pads, casts so much fear in Mayweather that Floyd turned down a huge US$8 million payday to fight him. Hell, Floyd even stuttered when Margarito’s named is mentioned.

Am I disappointed? Yes, I am.

See, the Pacquiao fight was Floyd’s last chance to gain the respect of the whole boxing community and not just a loyal fraction of it. There lay in front of him was the opportunity to prove he is the best and in his own words, “win under any circumstances.”

But like he did when quality opposition is there to challenge him, he wiggles his way out. He is perceived as a great ducker (and rightfully so) when he refused to step into the ring with elite contenders like Shane Mosley, Margarito, Miguel Cotto, and Paul Williams. Mayweather sealed the coffin of his legacy by walking away from Pacquiao.

As for Pacquiao, his place in history has been secured and he does not need Mayweather to further cement that. The native of Gensan has taken on all the best there is, including the highly touted triumvirate of Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, and Juan Manuel Marquez. Like a juggernaut, Pacquiao rammed through the division in a devastating fashion, an act that shoots him into the breadth of Muhammad Ali, Jack Dempsey, and Sugar Ray Robinson.

Mayweather’s legacy has been tarnished so bad that not even the strongest bleach can erase that ugly spot. Despite that pristine “0”, history will condemn Mayweather’s actions and the consequences will be irreparable unless he mans up and fights Pacquiao.

Majority, if not all, of boxing fans will not want to see Mayweather fight Matthew Hatton. But British fans are so engrossed in supporting their hometown heroes that they will be more than willing to pay just to see Matty try to avenge his bog brother’s loss, even though the Brit’s chances of winning is slimmer than a needle. Truth is Matthe Hatton is a big and easy payoff for Mayweather. But it does not carry any weight when it comes to legacy.

In closing, I will just say this: MAYWEATHER IS A COWARD!

The Only Man Who Can Beat Pacquiao is...

Manny Pacquiao is the whole package in boxing – granite chin, amazing hand speed, extreme mobility, superbly agile, and packs dynamite punches in both hands. The scary thing about him, though, aside from all attributes mentioned, is that he continues to evolve and this nonstop learning process adds more punch to an already high combustible mix.

So the question surfaces, is there anyone who can beat Manny Pacquiao? The answer is yes.

But before you Mayweather fans think it is your man, I am sorry to disappoint. Mayweather will lose his pristine record against Pacquiao, if the former chooses to fight the latter. He may be slick and skilled, but he is not THE ONE.

The boxer who can beat Pacquiao should possess at the very least, equal hand speed, crazy combinations, and who also uses his feet. The only man who can beat Manny Pacquiao is STEVE FOX!

Steve got this crazy spin moves, side stepping techniques and some wrestling skills too, Coach Roach will have a hard time figuring this bomber from the United Kingdom. Steve’s too unpredictable that Pacquiao may not know what to do once he’s in the ring with him.

when you look at Steve's list of beaten opponents, he has taken them all - resurrected demons, kung fu masters, taekwondo jins, karate practicioners, and even cyborgs and wrestlers. He also took on, err, wooden dummies, and pandas, and errr, uhmm, girls. But that's beside the point!

The point isthat Steve never backs down from anyone and is willing to fight them inside and outside the ring, where the penguins play.

And Steve will certainly want a piece of Pacquiao after what he did to Ricky Hatton, and he will certainly make Pacquiao pay. And look cool while dismantling the Filipino warrior.

Check how Steve Fox will destroy Pacquiao in this video.

Fighters Who Should Retire This Year

Call it stupidity or granite-headedness, some boxers really don’t know when to quit, to finally punctuate the chapters of their careers and close the books. Sadly, some of these fighters are those I have grown to admire when I was still in my childhood years. And this year, they are slated to lace up the gloves and partake in another beatdown.

Evander Holyfield (42-10-2) and Francois Botha (47-4-2, 2 no contest), Heavyweights

The 47-year old ex-world champion Holyfield is bent on retiring as a champion. And in an effort to do so, he is now on the stage with another aging boxer, 41-year old Botha, who is way beyond his prime (did he ever reached his prime?) and the current holder of the WBF heavyweight title. Seriously, what’s the WBF?

"I am going to win and I will cherish the WBF world title,” says Holyfield.

Seriously, what’s the WBF?

I hate to admit but these guys are so washed-up, and the fact that that they are fighting for a belt sanctioned by the WBF (seriously, what’s the WBF?!) makes them so wash-up even more. And get this, they won’t be fighting in the United States or Europe, but in Uganda. See how washed-up they are?

Gerry Penalosa (54-7-2, 36 KOs), Bantamweight

Before I say anything else, let me declare that I am Filipino and I love chicken adobo as well as sisig and papaitan even more so than the Pinoy sitting next to me. I have always loved Gerry and have watched him become an icon of Philippine boxing. But dude, you got to admit, at 37-years old, he is getting old. As technically sound and defensive-minded as he is, he’s over the hill. The beating Juan Manuel Lopez gave him last year should be a clear indication of that.

To Gerry, I implore you man. Quit. Hang those gloves. You got your legacy already secured; you have been through many wars and have given boxing a great boost, especially for us Filipinos. Heck, you made me proud when Juanma failed to knock you out, that you can take what he can dish. But no more fights man. You can be coach, a boxing analyst, but your time inside the ring is over. I hope you realize that.

Jermain Taylor (28-4-1, 17 KOs), Super Middleweight

I am a big fan of this guy. But with the losses he was dealt with, and the manner of how he lost, should make him really considering of calling it quits. Taylor’s last two losses (against Carlo Froch and Arthur Abraham) were so devastating that I am surprised he still wants more action. I admire the heart, but when your body can no longer take those types of shots, it is plain stupid to still ask for some more.

Roy Jones, Jr. (54-6, 40 KOs), Light Heavyweight

December 2, 2009. Got knocked out. In the first round. To an unknown fighter. End of story.

Opinion: Golden Boy and Floyd Exemplify Contradiction

By Ryan Arguelles

What do Richard Schaefer, Oscar De La Hoya, Floyd Mayweather Jr., Floyd Mayweather Sr., Ellerbe and Haymon have in common? Answer: Contradiction.

These are the people who have one common denominator – the word “Contradiction.”

People are not dumb, people remember. Boxing fans are aware of what’s going on, boxing writers noticed it, the public and the whole world listened.

The whole world – I mean, the whole wide world, not only America – are interested in boxing which is currently at it’s peak again because of Manny Pacquaio. Therefore any news about boxing is well documented in the minds of the fans all over the world. They read newsletters, articles, Biofiles, comments , interviews on people who are involved in boxing. All because their interest was awaken again by a fighter named Manny Pacquaio.

The names mentioned above raised a lot of eyebrows among boxing writers, sports editors, TV and radio sports commentators, boxing and fight fans. As if integrity and dignity has no value to these people above mentioned, they don’t seem to care about the importance of self respect and ethics.

They became a slave to their lies and deception, the people are not stupid. People out there deserve the truth because boxing fans are intelligent, wise and knowledgable.

Schaefer, Dela Hoya, Mayweather Jr, Sr, Ellerbe and Haymon think that they can fool the boxing world. They thought that cheating the public will go on and on and on without the fans noticing it.

Their own words are the evidence that they all have no moral principle, they don’t fight for any ideology or religion, all they care is to tarnish and diminish the achievements of the humble fighter from the Philippines. They are all masters of CONTRADICTION. Lets examine one by one, the contradictory words and actions coming from them:

Schaefer:
Past- “I will let Mosley comply to blood test by Nevada Athletic Commission and nothing more.”
Present- “Manny Pacquaio has to submit himself to Olympic style blood testing to fight Floyd
Mayweather Jr.” But not Mosley? (Who fights for Golden Boy and is an admitted user.)

Dela Hoya:
Past- Interviewed by Yahoo Sports in the Mayweather and Marquez fight said, “Pacquaio punches we’re not that hard, truthfully his punches aren’t that hard, he didn’t hurt me. But the punches we’re so fast and coming from everywhere, its feels like there we’re ten of them.”

Present- “Now, I have to wonder about him. Im saying to myself how those punches felt like Mosley, Vargas and Pacquaio felt the same.” Oscar’s recent statement.

Mayweather Jr:
Past- Floyd Jr. said “Pacquaio doesn’t want to fight me, he never called me! He has to call me! It will be an easier fight than Marquez! Pacquaio is one dimentional fighter, its easy to beat him.”
Present- As of today, Mayweather insist for the random blood testing even though Pacquaio has agreed to three blood tests, including one right after the fight and the random urine test before the fight. Steroids will be detected in a blood test taken 1-2 days before the fight and 1-2 weeks after the fight. Pacquaio made statements in the press challenging Floyd Jr for a mano for mano. Floyd Jr. until now didn’t answer the challenge, instead issued a statement through GBP for an even playing field. Though he didn’t give Marquez an even playing field by weighing more than the agreed weight of 144 lbs, just to gain advantaged on the smaller opponent.

Mayweather Sr:
Past-Convicted Drug Trafficker!
Present- Steroids Expert and Drug Accuser!

Haymon:
Past- He is the manager of Berto. Berto is to fight Mosley (who has testified that he inadvertently uses steroids and epogen). Haymon didn’t request Mosley for Olympic style testing vs. Berto. Mosley is a fighter of Golden Boy.

Present- Haymon wants Random Olympic style blood testing to protect his fighter Floyd Jr. but not Berto who will fight Mosley, who’s admitted user.

Ellerbe:
Past- We will never fight Pacquaio for 50-50 in one interview with Scoop Malinowski.
Present- As of today, no contract has been signed and fight is off. Maybe, this is only the exception to all the contradiction…that they never intended to fight Manny Pacquaio because their fighter has no balls and courage to fight the number one Pound-for-Pound fighter of boxing from the Philippines. And Floyd will remained a “ducker.” No contradiction on that.”

Ryan Arguelles is a Brooklyn, NY-based boxing enthusiast and observer who has watched many of Manny Pacquiao’s earliest fights live in The Philippines.

Reposted from BoxingInsider.com

Donaire Finally Speaks on Viloria, Darchinyan, and Shaw

8CountNews caught up with the Filipino Flash, world champ Nonito Donaire and got his thoughts on the recent falling out between him and Brian Viloria. Donire also talks in depth about the entire Manny Pacquiao vs Floyd Mayweather mess.

Donaire is scheduled to fight Gerson Guerrero on February, 13th in Las Vegas, Nevada. The fight will be available on PPV, and will be for the interim WBA world super flyweight title.

Donaire really breaks down the possible Mayweather vs Pacquiao fight, and gives an in depth analysis of what he believes will happen if the fight ever does materialize.

Check the podcast interview here.

Vaya Con Dios, Cotto Sr.!

Miguel Cotto, Sr., the charismatic father of former two-time world champion Miguel 'I'm No Angel" Cotto, passed away last Sunday, January 3, in Puerto Rico. He reportedly died of a heart attack and has been known to have suffered heart disease and asthma for years.

He was 57 years old.

The elder Cotto was last seen in Las Vegas, during his son Miguel Angel's title defense against Manny Pacquiao. He implored his son to stop the fight and tried to save him from further punishment. The father and son tandem were very close.

Boxers' Camp sincerely extends its condolences to the Cotto family in this time of sadness and bereavement.