The Amy Green Room

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Mayweather/Guerrero Predictions from The Green Room
By: Amy Green - May 2, 2013

Saturday May 4, undefeated Floyd Mayweather will face Robert Guerrero at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Floyd returns to the ring one year after defeating Miguel Cotto and Guerrero's most recent outing was a victory over Andre Berto in November 2012. Guerrero vows to dethrone Mayweather, and has engaged in an interesting combination of trash talk and scripture spouting. Never being at a loss for words, Mayweather also promises victory. Social media outlets are filled with debate, and constant tattling of what each camp has done or said, all adding fuel to the promotional fire. Boxing fans, critics, writers and others in the industry are taking sides and offering opinions. Fighters, who know the game from a literal first hand perspective have also weighed in with comments. Female fighters are no exception, and have given their exclusive predictions for billycboxing.com.

Sonya “The Scholar” Lamonakis: Mayweather is a much more skilled boxer and out classes Guerrero. I hope Guerrero doesn't get dirty as the fight goes on. He has a lot of heart and is strong but he is facing someone with beautiful defense and power in both hands.

Layla McCarter, WBA Jr. Middleweight world champion, 6 time-4 division champion: Robert Guerrero is a good fighter and has earned his shot .He is also a southpaw. Many fighters struggle with southpaws and Floyd has had awkward moments with them because he usually prefers to box from the outside. Floyd Mayweather is in a league of his own in skill and natural ability. He has seen it all and can adjust to win over even the most difficult opponents. I don't count Guerrero out because he is hungry, has a huge heart and is coming to win, but my prediction is that the skills of Mayweather will prevail. Floyd Mayweather Jr. by decision.

Jackie Breitenstein: Mayweather by decision. Mayweather is just too smart and too slick. But Guerrero has really great defense, and is slick too, but just not like Mayweather

Melissa “Huracan” Hernandez, current WBC featherweight champion, 4 time world champion: Guerrero will give a good fight, but Floyd pulls of the win. Floyd is better defensively and technically. BUT- if Floyd is washed, it will show in this fight. The Ghost needs to get him out in the first five rounds.

Terri Moss, retired WIBF/WIBA champion, trainer and promoter, owner Buckhead Fight Club: Robert Guerrero is exactly the kind of opponent Floyd Mayweather would pick to fight. He comes straight forward, and is flatfooted, which on paper is the perfect fight for Floyd. Floyd is good at taking a fighter's confidence and getting them off their game. If Guerrero maintains that confidence, keeps the pressure on, and constantly throws his jab, he could win. But if I'm betting, I will say Floyd will win. He will take his confidence, and stop Guerrero with a quick counter. Probably a hook.

Tricia Alcaro Turton, retired boxer, head coach Arcaro Boxing: I think Guerrero will bring it early. Maybe even get a few good shots in. But Floyd will keep his composure and stop Ghost around 9. I don't think there is anyone who can beat Floyd. Ghost takes way too many punches.

Chevelle Hallback, IFBA lightweight Champion, WBAN Champion: Floyd by decision. He still has the power, speed and agility.

Sulem Urbina, Amateur standout: Mayweather is Mayweather. He does what it takes to win. At first I thought he would win by knockout in the 8th round, but it's been a year since he fought Cotto, and it seems he's aged a little. Guerrero did what it took to win the Berto fight, but Floyd will win by decision. He's still too crafty, and Guerrero isn't ready yet for a fighter like that.

Maureen Shea, former WBC (interim) and NABF Champion: I think Guerrero's awkward southpaw style will give Floyd some problems early on. Guerrero comes to win, and will do whatever necessary to win, as we saw with Andre Berto. But Floyd's athleticism, ability to adjust and overall technical style will prevail and give him a unanimous decision..(Sidebar: it could get ugly).

Lisa Noel Garland, GBU Light Welterweight Champion: I'm not sure- there's been a lot of upsets in boxing lately. It will be interesting. I really want Mayweather not to win.

AUTHOR'S  NOTE: Floyd Mayweather brings skill, accuracy, amazing defense, and innate talent to face a wide swinging, rugged fighter, who is more brawler than brains in the ring. Floyd ends the evening at the MGM Grand 44-0.
 

“It's The Stuff That Dreams Are Made Of”
By: Amy Green - April 8, 2013

When Carly Simon penned that classic tune, you know she didn't have boxing on her mind, but rather, the re-discovering of the amazing in what's become typical and familiar in our everyday lives. The typical and familiar in boxing seems to be so called dream matches that for a myriad of reasons, (business and otherwise) that the fans and the business itself yearn for, but never materialize. In the minds of boxing people, there are imaginary fights that spark debate, prove who is the best of the best, and all in all, cure the ills of boxing. For fun, and of course, arguments sake, let's create some of these dream matches.

SETH MITCHELL VS ??: the heavyweight former college football star suffered his first defeat against Kronk Gym craftsman Jonathan Banks and is now on the road to redemption. Banks-Mitchell II was initially postponed when Banks injured his right thumb. Now, providing Mitchell has success and beats Banks on their new date of June 22, WHO is a good match for Mitchell that could put him closer to the top of the heavyweight division? Viable opponents could be Deontay Wilder, Joe Hanks and then a good scrap with Chris Arreola. Wilder is undefeated in 27 fights, and has not seen the distance in any of his bouts, never going more than four rounds. April 27 Wilder sees a step up against Audley Harrison, a definite heavyweight veteran. Joe Hanks, also undefeated, is looking for a step up competition wise. Hanks holds the IBA Americas heavyweight title, and has seen a ten round distance fight, and has 25 amateur fights to his credit, as well as sparring with both Klitschkos, and Chris Byrd. Hanks vs. Deontay Wilder could also be a good match, and could be a potential good, young heavyweight battle. Saving the best for last, Seth Mitchell and Chris Arreola. Arreola has never denied a challenge, and has only two losses, against Tomasz Adamek, and a heart-breaker with Vitali Klitschko. Arreola is a powerful, bruising fighter, whose drawback seems to be conditioning and Mitchell is a focused, disciplined athlete, always in the best fighting shape. Mitchell vs, Arreola would definitely tell us whether Mitchell has arrived enough to silence critics and maybe cast a serious eye toward the the likes of Tyson Fury and Steven Cunningham (pending their outcome April 20) or eventually, a Klitschko.

ADRIEN BRONER....and Brandon Rio at 140. Skeptics of Rios predict Broner's boxing finesse and speed soundly defeat Rios. Whoever wants to see a good brawl, will vote for Rios to finally conduct the test Broner has yet to have. Rios LIKES to hit and get hit and he never stops coming, and is tough fighting on the inside. Broner hasn't waged that kind of blood and guts battle yet, and he's not likely to get that from his June 22 date with Paulie Malignaggi. Paulie will make their event competitive for as long as his luck lasts and the good thing about Paulie vs. Broner is the never ending supply of copy for boxing scribes. Rios wouldn't deny fans a third match with Mike Alvarado, but a low buzz about Rios/Manny Pacquiao is also being heard.

ANDRE WARD and Sergio Martinez. Andre Ward is steadily recovering from his shoulder injury and seems to be interested in targeting Julio Chavez Jr., when he can no longer make his 160 weight class. Chavez Jr. and Ward spells D-E-F-E-A-T for Jr. Ward is simply too strong, smart and talented for Son of the Legend- and he has a healthy respect for boxing, that Jr. does not. Martinez possesses qualities that would make a fight with Ward compelling- he's a southpaw, has the speed, conditioning, and unconventional angles that can yield a knockout. Ward is naturally bigger and has the edge in strength which could create problems for Martinez if his conditioning should fail him. Additionally, this is a very cosmetically appealing fight- Ward and Martinez have the marquee good looks to attract casual fight fans, and both are “classy good guys” people love to like.

TIMOTHY BRADLEY and Juan Manuel Marquez. Bradley is fresh off his brutal victory over Russian Ruslan Provodnikov, and Marquez is a few months removed of his KO of the year against Manny Pacquiao in December 2012. IF boxing followed logic even slightly, Bradley/Marquez would be a done deal. Bradley and Marquez BOTH (?) have wins over Pacquiao. Seems only right they meet up in the ring. Marquez proved he can still battle, and recovered nicely when Pacquiao had him on the retreat and had bloodied his nose. Bradley has youth and strength on his side, which could determine a close fight in the latter rounds IF Marquez were to fade. Lots of action in the middle of this fight, and would be interesting to see if Bradley is willing to fight all out against Marquez as he did with Ruslan Provodnikov.. Throwing caution to the wind against Marquez could prove disastrous, who is a wiser warrior than Provodnikov.

Dream matches may or may not ever materialize but they are part of what keeps boxing alive and well, and feed the fire with debate and discussion. When and IF any “dream matches” ever come true, then boxing defies the critics and naysayers and truly make it the sport dreams are made of.

 

Let's Hear it For the Girls!  2012 Female Fighter Faves

By: Amy Green - December 23, 2012

2012 saw amazing strides in women's boxing when the 2012 Women's Olympic Boxing Team graced the Olympics for the first time. Americans Queen Underwood, Marlen Esparza and Claressa Shields captured the spotlight and had everyone talking. In a fairy tale dream world, the women's boxing team returned home from London, and women's boxing had undergone a radical 180 degree change. Bob Arum scheduled female pro debuts on his televised Vegas cards, and Golden Boy was fighting him over having the girl's on Showtime. Big money endorsements from cereal to tampons were showered on these new stars. Then- we we woke up. Women's boxing still hasn't been blessed with any of the above happenings, but the fighters are still fighting the best fight they can, with possible light at the end of the tunnel. Shane Mosley promoted his first ever fight with Kaliesha West in a prominent position on the card. Lenny Fresquez in Albuquerque, New Mexico continues to showcase his pound for pound star Holly Holm. But still, women's boxing struggles to have its huge break out moment with a star or stars capable of inciting a Pacquiao or top tier male fighter type fan base.

There is no shortage of pound for pound lists, and each of those lists are unique, as are these Female Fighting Faves that laced up the gloves and pounded their way to success in 2012.

Holly Holm. The number one female welterweight in the WORLD, with a stack of belts that rival Money Mayweather's in size. Holly's resume sports only two losses, one being a violent knockout at the hands of Ann Sophie Mathis in December 2011. Holly returned to triumph over Mathis in their rematch six months later. 2012 Holly was victorious against Mathis and the over matched Diana Prazak, who jumped weight classes to face Holm. During the Holm/Prazak promotion, a video was produced by Norway's Cecilia Braekhus, challenging Holly and her number one pound for pound status. In the challenge Cecilia demands a Vegas showdown with Holly, to settle once and for all, WHO the reigning pound for pound queen really is in boxing. Cecilia owns the WBA, WBO and WBC light welterweight titles. Holly owns multiple world titles, and has twice been named Ring Magazine's Female Fighter of the Year. During her ten year career she has traveled outside Albuquerque three times. Promoter Fresquez has built a comfortable career for Holly in Albuquerque, with sold out crowds who love their hometown heroine. Fight critics belabor this point, complaining fighters must travel to New Mexico to fight, and Holly has the unfair advantages- super big ring, hometown, and - Holly Holm has a jack rabbit style of fighting. Always on the run and awkward to hit. Chevelle Hallback has experienced Holly's style of fighting twice and also faced Cecelia Braehkus. Who in her opinion, is the tougher, better fighter? “I did more damage to Braekhus,” Chevelle said. “Holly Holm is not a huge power puncher, but her ability to keep opponents at bay and her footwork make her hard to catch and connect with clean. Braekhus has more punching power because she stays in the pocket and sits down on her punches. Holly hits on the run, and doesn't sit down on her punches which takes away from her power. Braekhus has good ring generalship, and good power.” she said, leaving the question open for debate and hopefully, an audience. In Chevelle's opinion, Holm/Braehkus in Vegas, with both promoters, Lenny Fresquez and Sauerland on board, is a good fight for women's boxing. Holly Holm has responded with interest to a match with Cecilia Braekhus, giving the sport something to look forward to. Vegas....in July. Be there or be square.

Ava Knight has been One To Watch since her 2008 draw against Elena “Baby Doll” Reid. Never matched easy, this petite, dedicated fighter, “Lady of Boxing” made 2012 the most successful year by taking the WBC flyweight title from long reigning champion Mariana Juarez, to sit beside her new IBF title. Three wins in 2012, two by knockout. Ava Knight is a lady to be reckoned with, and in 2013 she plans to keep her win streak alive. Don't rule out the prospect of Ava in a rematch with Ana Torres, to avenge her 2009 loss, as soon as Torres returns to the ring from maternity leave.

Kaliesha West is the WBO bantam weight champion and IFBA super bantam weight champion. She logged two wins in 2012, and made an impressive statement for women's boxing by being on Shane Mosley's first professional card on October 6, winning a unanimous decision over Christina Ruiz. Bantam weight? Super bantam weight? Box or slug? OK! Kaliesha is ready for 2013, and has two weight divisions to choose from, which make her a double threat.

Carina Moreno has reemerged as “La Reina” with a huge upset win over Susi Kentikian, the “Killer Queen”. Carina stung the Killer Queen on her home turf in Germany and brought the WBA flyweight title home to Watsonville, California. A veteran of 28 fights, who held multiple world titles, Carina has fought all over the world against top level opposition, and the Kentikian win gives her career a huge boost for 2013. It's always exciting to see the best fight the best- who's up for Ava Knight and La Reina?

Melissa Hernandez- BIG talent and lots of attitude, this feisty Puerto Rican attributes her style and swagger to the late Hector Camacho Sr. In 2012 Melissa won two bouts by unanimous decision, against Nicole Woods, then returned to Canada to rematch Jelena Mrdjenovich. Rematching Jelena, Melissa earned the coveted WBC featherweight title, within one year of taking a fight with Mrdjenovich on a day's notice and grabbing a swift decision victory for her efforts. The only thing holding Melissa back is WBC politics on opponents. But- rules are made to be broken and fights are made to be fought. Don't expect Melissa to tolerate the esteemed sanctioning body restrictions when a good fight could break out.

Fighting Faves of 2012
By: Amy Green - December 20, 2013

Tis the season! Boxing scribe's are busy penning their Pound For Pound compilations and my "Fighting Faves” list is short and sweet, pared down to a few that gave 2012 their best in boxing, and have a fighting chance for even more success in 2013.

FILIPINO FLASH Nonito Donaire banged out four victories in 2012, putting his heart, guts and skill in the ring each and every time. When facing reluctant a opponent in a fight (Toshiaki Nishioka) that threatened to lull the boxing crowd into a coma, Donaire turned the fight around with a swiftness, putting his opponent on the canvas, and making the most of his mistakes to secure another victory. Ending 2012 with an exclamation point, Donaire retired Mexican warrior Jorge Arce with a third round TKO, even with an iffy left hand knuckle injury. The Arce stoppage came a week after Juan Manuel Marquez dropped and stopped Manny Pacquiao. Ever gracious and humble, Donaire acknowledged his win over one of the toughest of Mexican fighters: "There were a lot of fans that said, you got to get him, this is for the Philippines. "But I love Mexico as well. Mexican fighters are tough and I have the best respect for all of them. I'm hoping (the Filipinos) can be proud of what I've done tonight.” It's a good thing for boxing that Nonito Donaire likes tough Mexican fighters- Abner Mares is a tough Mexican people are ready to see him battle in 2013.

Danny “Swift” Garcia. The light welter from Philly created excitement with three fights in 2012, defeating (and hopefully retiring) Eric Morales twice, and enduring a cut to win by TKO over Amir Khan. For sure Morales was over the hill, but Garcia capitalized on the Kahn/Lamont Peterson fight falling through and took Kahn's WBC and WBA belts convincingly, knocking him down three times. Garcia will welcome 2013 at the new Barclay Center in Brooklyn against the mercurial Zab Judah. Judah is gunning for Garcia, hoping to regain some dominance in his hometown and in boxing. We need to see the best of Zab Judah against Garcia, who is on a roll defending his title, and has a nasty left hook to keep his winning streak alive. After battling Judah, Amir Khan is waiting in the wings with new trainer Virgil Hunter to rematch Garcia. Khan looked good against an overwhelmed Carlos Molina, but Garcia possesses all the things Molina didn't- size, speed and power enough to put Kahn down. Can Virgil Hunter cure Kahn's chin issues enough to get a win over Garcia?

ANDRE WARD consistently defeats ALL super middleweight talent. Fighting only once in 2012, Ward faced Chad Dawson, who moved down in weight after his light heavyweight win over Bernard Hopkins to take the Ward challenge. Ward scored knockdowns in rounds 3, 4 and ten to earn the TKO win in the tenth round over Dawson. Ward was scheduled kick start 2013 by fighting former middleweight king Kelly Pavlik, but those plans are delayed while he heals from a shoulder surgery suffered in sparring. February 23 is a rumored date but until the nature of Ward's injury is determined, it's up in the air. This might  work out to be a good thing for Kelly Pavlik, whose advantage could lie in Ward's training being affected by his shoulder, and also the extra time to hone new skills he and Robert Garcia have started working on in their career together.

SERGIO MARTINEZ- this southpaw defies convention with his fighting style and amazing conditioning. Two fights in 2012, and Martinez got up from the canvas to get the “W” in both. Matthew Macklin knocked Martinez down in the seventh round at Madison Square Garden on St. Patrick's Day. Martinez returned the favor twice in the eleventh round before referee Eddie Cotton stopped the action. Martinez lands shots that come hard, fast and unexpected, and can end a fight when it is least expected. Martinez is also a very composed fighter- which he displayed during the twelfth round of his match with Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. For eleven rounds, Martinez had rendered Jr. bloody and confused, beating him all over the ring . During a “too little too late” surge from Chavez in the last round, Martinez was stunned, knocked down and very nearly out on his feet, reminiscent of Chavez Sr. and Meldrick Taylor in 1990. Martinez showed grit in not being upset by Chavez, and earning the unanimous decision. Martinez is scheduled to fight Martin Murray in Argentina in April of 2013, and Sergio's promoter Lou DiBella wouldn't rule out a Chavez rematch, if Jr. can manage to stay away from the herbal essence.

ABNER MARES captured the vacant WBC super bantam weight crown in a victory over Eric Morel and defended it against Anselmo Moreno, giving him two wins for 2012. Mares is ranked the number one super bantam in Mexico, and is eager to carry out the Mexican/ Filipino rivalry against Nonito Donaire and has already called the Filipino Flash out for 2013. Donaire and Mares own the lions share of sanctioning body hardware, and have the potential to create even more excitement than Juan Manuel Marquez and Manny Pacquiao, possibly saving the boxing world from a fifth installment of that series.

MY ONES TO WATCH: Brandon Rios- who doesn't want to see more of a fighter who gets offended when his opponent doesn't hit him? Twitter feeds have seen demand for Rios and Danny Garcia, and it's hard to imagine Rios saying no. Keith Thurman- young, talented with knockout power and confidence. Ended his 2012 by retiring Carlos Quintana and is scheduled for the Danny Garcia/Zab Judah undercard at the Barclay in Brooklyn March 9. Gabe Rosado, a middleweight that saw three big wins in 2012, and has stepped up for a January 19 bout against the very avoided and dangerous Gennady Golovkin on HBO.
 

PHIL LO GRECO
By: Amy Green - December 15, 2012

Welterweight Phil Lo Greco took control of his boxing  career,  working inside and outside the ring to get his fights made when his management was unable to deliver what his career needed.  That changed in 2012 when Phil was signed to  Golden Boy Productions. A native of Canada, this classy Italian sports a record of 25-0 and after successfully navigating the boxing landscape alone, fighting mainly in Canada and Italy, believes the union with Golden Boy will pay off. Lo Greco has had three wins with Golden Boy, and major plans for 2013.

“2013 is going to the the year where I make a name for myself, and will be fighting for a title,” Phil said. “I have a winning team it took me years to build: managers Salvatore and Christian Cherchi, my trainer Howard Grant, by brother Franco handles PR, and my physio doctor, Pietro Baio. I have a big team, he laughed, “and they're all within my inner circle.” Having a supportive inner circle is valuable to Phil, who realized early on shady people make up a part of the boxing population and can spell disaster for unsuspecting fighters. “You live and learn,” Phil said, “and boxers need to be very careful of who they deal with.”

Lo Greco is a talented boxer who has the ability to box smart when necessary and also bring the battle and bang it out, which he really likes to do. This is the part of boxing he enjoys the most- bringing people together for his fights, who get to see him perform and enjoy the reward of a big victory afterward. Witnessing the fight and the win, Lo Greco's family and friends see first hand the results of his hard work and sacrifices.

Phil Lo Greco is beginning to define “world champion”. He has a fan base that has seen him fight all over Italy and Canada, and now, since signing with Golden Boy, venues in Las Vegas and Atlantic City. So it's definitely time to grab the limelight. Fighting in a division loaded with talent, Phil is ready for a break out year against top competition with plenty of excitement for the fans. “2013 will be the year where I will thrill you guys with fights!” he promised. Armed with his smart, aggressive boxing style, sophisticated demeanor and Italian good looks, Phil will command a huge following at his fights no matter where he travels. Always fan friendly, Phil encourages his fans to keep up with all his moves by following him on Twitter: @phil_lo_greco
 

Chevelle Hallback Shares her “Macho Time”
By: Amy Green - December 7, 2012

Hector Camacho Sr. brought style, skill, and excitement to the ring for 88 fights, with a resume that boasted the best fighters of his day. Veteran women's boxing champion Chevelle Hallback was training at the Fight Factory in Tampa, FL when Camacho was preparing to face Saul Duran, and needed a sparring partner. Chevelle has fought a Who's Who of women boxers during her own career, but was initially a little apprehensive to be facing the legendary Camacho across the ring, with a gym full of people looking on.

Recalling the sparring session, Chevelle laughed. “I said OH LORD, what have I gotten myself into,” she said, but summoned the skill and nerve which has seen her through not only sparring Nate Campbell but fighting elite fighters from Lucia Rijker to Holly Holm. “Even through the nerves,” she said, “I knew I could hold my own against him if I just relaxed.”

Camacho was unaware he was sparring a female, and Chevelle said he held nothing back. “He didn't hold back on me at all, but even still, I was able to hold my own. He wasn't totally the fighter he used to be, but still, Camacho was very quick, strong and GOOD,” she remembered. “He came straight at me,” Chevelle said, “and I boxed him, slipping and avoiding a lot of his shots. I even managed to stay in the inside with him and took whatever he had for me. The first two rounds I was just trying to get my nerves under control, I boxed, used my jab a LOT, and stayed away. When he did connect, and I saw and felt I could take his punch, I relaxed a little more, knowing I could use my skills to prevent him from hitting me but if he did, I could take the shot. At times we would go blow for blow, and I think we went 5 or 6 rounds. By the last round we were going at it as if we had been sparring partners before. It was not until the end of the sparring that he was told I was a female. He was very impressed and told me I had bigger cojones than a man did. I took that as a huge compliment from one of the best boxers of his time. l was so honored and privileged to spar him! I was super nervous, but I did it- it was great and a lot of fun"

Along with the rest of the boxing world, Chevelle mourns the loss of Hector Camacho Sr., who lived as hard as he fought, and sadly, left the world too soon.
 

Guerrero: The Not So Friendly Ghost
By: Amy Green - November 26, 2012

Robert Guerrero made his boxing debut at 129 pounds in 2001. He visited the Green Room in 2004, with a record of 13-0, shortly after his victory over Enrique Sanchez. In 2004, Guerrero was humble, outgoing and enthusiastic about his future in boxing:

ROBERT GUERRERO: I’m right now looking forward to going to camp in Van Nuys with new trainer, John Bray,. I should be fighting in December, no exact date yet. I’ll be super ready; I’m working on everything. Then I’m hoping to fight somebody in the top 10---looking forward to going some rounds, getting that experience and going for a title. That’s where it’s at. Marco Antonio Barrera, Manny Pacquiao, and Prince Naseem may come back, and Juan Manuel Marquez, Paulie Ayala. It’s one of the strongest weight classes. I’m SO excited to be in it. That’s where the action is at. When you win a title in that weight class, you know you’ve fought the best.

AG: Any chance of ever moving up from 126?

ROBERT GUERRERO: There’s so much to accomplish at 126, when I get that done, then I may go to 130.

AG: what are your strengths, and what makes you such a special fighter?

ROBERT GUERRERO: what makes me a special fighter…. I can box, I can bang.. I’m all around. I can go both hands, I’ve got the speed, and I’m a southpaw. Very fast feet. I am blessed with God given attributes.

Fast forward 8 years to this recent Saturday, November 24, and Guerrero's punishing war against Andre Berto.

During that eight year time span, Guerrero advanced through the ranks at featherweight, super featherweight and now welterweight. He has also collected a few titles along the way and in the battle against Berto retained his WBC interim welter title. Not only has Guerrero grown in size, he's acquired some new skills, that are a far cry from his 2004 “God given attributes.”

Berto was on the receiving end of a bullying Guerrero, who scored 2 immediate knockdowns, the second more of a punching shoving combination; some hitting after the bell, a lot of holding Berto's head while punching, then delivering a punch leading with his thumb which made a mess of Berto's right eye. Berto was not without some moments. He showed true grit in gaining his composure after two (?) knockdowns, delivering vicious uppercuts to Guerrero, snapping his head back and even scoring some damage to his right eye, rendering both fighters sight impaired for the eleventh and twelfth rounds. Referee Lou Moret had a difficult job of overseeing the fight, which was intense trench warfare in very close quarters. Both fighters got away with fouls,  and  Berto was rewarded  post fight criticism from Guerrero, fans and most press for complaining about the referees lack of attention to Guerrero's dirty work. Guerrero began his post fight comments by thanking God, then preceding to disparage Berto's power shots, (which hopefully were keenly felt once the adrenalin of victory wore off) and demand a fight with Floyd Mayweather. A far cry from the Guerrero of 2004. The humility seems to have disappeared, replaced by a demanding, bullying fighter, with a whopping two welterweight victories, and his eyes on the Mayweather prize. Guerrero seems to have forgotten how he got to his Berto victory- by working up and through the ranks, which may matter little when promoters, managers and sanctioning bodies begin putting pencil to paper. Guerrero should check his ego, hone his skills a against a few more welterweights before getting handed the Mayweather brass ring.
 

Rhodes Wants Bedlam Bash With Zuhdi!

By: Amy Green - July 21, 2012

In Oklahoma, “Bedlam” usually refers to grudge matches between the Cowboys in Stillwater and the Sooners in Norman. For Oklahoma City boxer Lydell Rhodes, the idea of bedlam would be a match with his cross town rival Noah Zuhdi,(15-1) who holds the Oklahoma State Lightweight title.

Rhodes, (10-0, 5 KO) now lives and trains in Las Vegas with Floyd Mayweather Sr., but is Oklahoma City born and bred, and wants Zuhdi's title. He trained with his uncle Andy Pierce throughout his amateur career before making the move to Las Vegas. “It was a little different, coming out here to Vegas and the training has been different with Mayweather Sr. It's changed my fighting style here and there. I'm slicker, and know how to use my skills to do what I love,” Rhodes said. “Not only do I have a physical edge over Noah, I have a higher boxing IQ,” he continued. “He's a lawyer who fights as a hobby, I'm a fighter that fights to fight.” Floyd Mayweather Sr. is optimistic about Lydell's future. “ Lydell is a good fighter,” Mayweather Sr. said. “ He's got to keep learning and working, but it's been so far, so good. “There's a couple of guys to put him front of him to step up- one being Johnny Garcia, which will be a good fight for Lydell.,” Sr. continued, and offered some of the trademark Mayweather confidence. “Lidell won't fall short of glory,” he said. “I know what I'm doing- remember, I trained my son. I'm the motivator, innovator and creator of boxing.”

Lydell Rhodes and Noah Zuhdi both have a huge following in their hometown, with local promoters, catBox Entertainment and HD Boxing behind them. “If our camps get together,” Lydell said, “and Noah gets in the ring, it would be early Christmas for me. It would be a big fight and something for the fans to see.”

Winning the hometown title is the first step in Lydell's pursuit of a world title. At 24 he has youth on his side as well as the tools of strength, speed and skill. “Winning against Noah is just a stop in the road for me,” he said. “It starts at home, in Oklahoma with him. He's my first stop on the way to becoming a world champion.”
 

“Ice” John Scully in the Green Room
By: Amy Green - May 7, 2012

Trainer “Iceman” John Scully walked into a boxing gym in March of 1982 and has been there ever since. But before then, Scully was fighting for the love of the fight. “I actually started boxing with kids in my neighborhood at least two years before that,” he said. “We'd fight each other on porches, in basements, wherever we felt like it. We didn't keep track of weight classes, it was just whoever wanted to box with who. That's about 32 years of actual boxing for me.”

Fast forward to John Scully and light heavy weight title contender Chad Dawson facing Bernard Hopkins for the WBC light heavy weight title in October 2011. The evening ended in a disastrous no contest with Hopkins and Dawson engaged in a skirmish which saw Hopkins going out of the ring, suffering a separated shoulder, and unable to continue the bout. Six months later, on April 28, Scully again guided Chad Dawson to a highly anticipated rematch with Hopkins, and this time, the pair emerged victorious.

Preparing for the Hopkins rematch, Scully's efforts were focused solely on Chad Dawson, not worrying or wondering what the other team was doing. “Nah,” Scully said. “I never considered him (Nazim Richardson) or what he was doing or thinking. I just concentrated on Chad, and what he does and should do. Chad, Scully explained, “is the type of guy who more often not, the opponent will have to adjust to him more than he has to adjust to them, so whatever they do, chances are he will be doing something more confusing to them. But, for every fight I just train the boxers to be prepared for what the opponent normally does in certain situations regardless of who the trainer in their corner is.”

Strategy wise, Scully had basically the same game plan as he did for the October fight, with a few minor adjustments which ultimately proved successful. “I would say,” he explained, “it was basically the same but we did spend a substantial amount of time working on some specific new maneuvers that did actually come into play that Saturday. I have to say as a trainer, there are few things better than seeing something you specifically trained to do actually get done.”

Scully saw his plan come to life for twelve rounds and recalled the action. “I thought it started out with Chad trying to make the fight and Bernard thinking mainly about getting loose and limiting the action. As Bernard started to pick his shots a little better, around the third or fourth round, I told Chad the pace was too much in Hopkins favor and that he needed to press the fight a little more.” Scully continued. “Twelve rounds is a long time and it was around the eighth round I guess when I felt Chad really getting into a groove and it was at that time I thought he was ready to start closing the show on a very high note. For the most part, I thought the looser he got the more confident he got and once that happened- it was a very exciting time in that arena. You could feel the energy and the anticipation of the title coming to us as each minute passed.” As for Hopkins and what he brought to the match, Scully was a little wary. “One of the last things I told Chad in the dressing room before we headed out to the ring was that he needed to be sure to stay alert and ready for anything, because with all the controversy and with him being a betting underdog, Hopkins pride would surely be kicking in and he would be definitely be going down with the ship if it came to it on that night. He was definitely aware of all the controversy and the criticism leveled at him, and as a champion I was pretty sure he was going to fight to the death if he had to.”

When the twelve rounds ended, judges scores were tallied and announced, and Dawson was unanimously the winner on two cards, 117-111, with Luis Rivera scoring a draw, 114-114. Scully admitted to apprehension when hearing Rivera's score, but also revealed there had been some pre fight notion that Rivera could be a fly in the ointment. “The truth of the matter is that two nights before the fight, I had a very recognizable name from the boxing world tell me that of the three judges appointed to work the fight that he was most concerned with Luis Rivera,” Scully said. “It was so crazy,” he continued, “because when they announced his score first, my mind instantly went to this guy and what he told me on that Thursday night, I thought we were about to get robbed.”

With Chad Dawson defeating Bernard Hopkins and becoming the WBC light heavyweight champion, John Scully has begun to get demands as a trainer, and offers to train more than his share of fighters. As always, he's open to working with anyone and anyone that would like his help, but one thing remains firm. “The fact is, I train at my gym in Middletown, Connecticut, the Lions Den Training Center and if anyone wants to work with me, they'd have to come to me here.”

Flash back to 1980, and a younger John Scully, a student of the fight game, avidly watching HBO fights, and fighting the good neighborhood fights, for the love of fighting. It's those times that make the Dawson victory over Hopkins even more amazing. “I would just like to say that I am very honored to be a part of this whole thing,” he said. “Seeing this man I've known since he was a kid win a world title by beating a legend on HBO is really something else. I grew up watching HBO fights as a kid, and to be in a position where their announcers are talking about me as I work with a fighter who is winning a world title on their air is about as surreal as it gets.”

 

Mayweather vs Cotto Prediction
By: Amy Green - May 2, 2012 - BillyCBoxing.com

Miguel Cotto and Floyd Mayweather meet for twelve rounds on Cinco de Mayo this Saturday in Las Vegas, vying for a WBA Super World Silver light middleweight title. Cotto's last fight was the ultimate grudge match and TKO victory over Antonio Margarito and Mayweather's forty second victory was a KO win over Victor Ortiz. The move up in weight could prove troublesome for some, but Mayweather insists he has no problems, and wants Cotto to be “comfortable” in the bout. Twelve rounds against the reigning pound for pound king would be uncomfortable and embarrassing for most fighters. Will Cotto rise to the occasion as admirably as he did in the Margarito rematch and dethrone the king? Can he even come remotely close to matching skills and ring smarts with Mayweather?

Last week Lorenzo Boyd made his debut in the Green Room with his Chad Dawson vs Bernard Hopkins prediction and was right on the money as Dawson triumphed over Hopkins. So sure of his boxing knowledge and of Floyd “Money” Mayweather, our Fed Ex boxing critic is placing his bet on Floyd. “I think Floyd's gonna win by decision. The keys to the fight- Cotto needs to stay on top of Floyd, back him up. Keep the fight close and tight. Floyd- he just needs to be Floyd. Just be himself. Get in his flow and do what he knows how to do, all night long. If I was picking just to be picking, I'd go with Cotto BUT- I'd bet all money or my house on Money Mayweather. We're gonna see that right hand lead and lethal left hook all the way to the bank. I'll even say how they look at the weigh in- I Floyd comes in at 152, he wins by KO. 148 to 150, decision.”

AMY GREEN'S PREDICTION:
Mayweather by decision. Even though some of us don't make as much money as Fed Ex drivers, Floyd is still a good bet! Floyd's speed and ability to adjust to anything his opponent bring, as well as defense, distance and keeping the jab going will give him the decision win against Cotto. Floyd's defense and footwork will help him create openings to work away from Cotto and counter him before he realizes what's hit him.

 

Bernard Hopkins/Chad Dawson Prediction
By: Amy Green - April 25, 2012

The Green Room is introducing LORENZO BOYD! Fed-Ex man by day, boxing fan at night, Lorenzo is going to be checking in with the Green Room with his unique opinions, predictions and observations of the Sweet Science. This New York native now makes Texas his home, and has some amateur fights to his credit. What does Lorenzo predict for Hopkins/Dawson this time around? Will we agree, disagree or in the end, agree to disagree?

Amy Green's Prediction:
My heart and mind say to go with Chad Dawson so he and trainer John Scully will get The Big Win, and totally settle any doubts that remain from the ring debacle in October. Chad Dawson is the younger stronger fighter, Bernard Hopkins the seeming ageless veteran with more knowledge and tricks up his sleeve than many boxers will ever learn in a lifetime. To ensure a victory, Dawson needs to avoid letting Hopkins bully him mentally and physically. He must be quicker, throw a volume of decisive punches, dictate and maintain a pace which will force Hopkins out of his game, keep him off balance and more importantly, out of control. Chad Dawson can win in a distance fight by boxing, not brawling, maintaining his composure and not letting Hopkins employ any of his so called dirty tricks, such as holding, and using his head and shoulders in tandem with his fists. Did Hopkins over react when he fell to the canvas against Dawson the first time? Had he had enough of Chad Dawson in a bare few minutes to know he had no chance of winning? Skeptics think so, and I'm inclined to agree.


Lorenzo Boyd's Prediction:
This is the fight that IF Bernard Hopkins can win, he should be in the Top 10 of fighters, but it's gonna be tough. Chad Dawson is a young, strong, slick, skilled boxer, not like the brawler Pascal that Hopkins picked apart. I've got to give the decision this time to Chad Dawson. He's going to move and pot shot and make Bernard fight his fight and not let him get to him. Bernard is not so much a dirty fighter, it's just that he has some “tricks” he uses to get by, make people mad and get in their head. He's not so dirty as Ortiz head butting Floyd Mayweather. The way the fight ended last time, Hopkins went a little overboard. I thought he could have got up and finished the fight, but- at that age anything could happen. If Bernard loses to Chad Dawson, he really should hang it up. What else is there he can do? He had over 20 defenses of the middleweight title in his career. Unless he wants to do back down to super middle or middle, I really don't see much else out there for him.

Joe “The Future” Hanks In The Green Room
By: Amy Green - April 23, 2012

New Jersey native and undefeated heavyweight prospect Joe “The Future” Hanks (19-0, 13 KO's) relocated to Los Angeles in 2009 and has been successfully racking up wins from coast to coast, fighting in Connecticut, New York, North Carolina and California. His next ring appearance is at the Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, OK April 27 when he faces veteran Marcus Rhode in a bout scheduled for six rounds. Rhode has the edge in ring seniority, so Hanks is approaching the fight fully prepared. “Rhode has a lot of experience,” he said. “It will be good to be in with such a wily kind of veteran, and see what I have. See if I can get in there and follow in some of the footsteps of the people he has fought or see if we have some more work to do.”

Once the challenge of Rhode is met, Hanks will have no shortage of talented heavyweight opposition as he continues to climb through the ranks of his division. What does he possess that makes him more unique than the rest of the fighters? “I don't know what makes me more unique,” Hanks said, “but what I do bring to the table is I'm a big guy, (6'4, 250) and an athlete, and I bring forth some fast hands and the ability to punch.”

Hanks changed his landscape from New Jersey to California, and looks forward to conquering the heavyweight landscape, from such established fighters as the Klitschko's to the more up and coming names. “I think I have a good shot at doing so,” he said. “I'm working hard, making the necessary sacrifices, so ultimately that will be the goal- to conquer my division, and do some damage in the process.” En route to inflicting damage on heavyweights, Hanks earned the IBA Americas title with a unanimous decision win over Alfredo Escalera in July 2011, and defended that title with a crushing second round TKO victory over 6'7 Rafeal Pedro in February.

Hanks enjoys the challenges in the ring, and the results of his dedication and hard work but dislikes the negative business surrounding boxing, and if he could do one thing to improve his sport, it would be to eliminate the behind the scenes business that keeps fans from seeing the fights they want to see.

After spending long hours working and training with his team, Jamal Abdullah and Danny Bass, Hanks unwinds with pursuits he feels people may consider boring. “I just kinda sit around and watch TV,” he laughed. “I like to watch Swamp People, Storage Wars, and I'm a big Game of Thrones fan. He also confessed to a couple of things off his training regimen: “I'm a sweets guy,” he said and prefers a really good chocolate cake or strawberry shortcake. “If someone turned their back, I could probably devour a chocolate cake!”

Joe Hanks is a heavyweight champ who loves cake; is charming and handsome with athleticism and ring skills- all qualities that are tough to beat. He also appreciates the fans that support him from New Jersey to California. “I'm going to make my fans proud, and hope they continue to follow me. I appreciate all their support.”
 
 

RIP BERT SUGAR......
By: Amy Green - March 26, 2012

Intellectual and one of a kind, witty, sometimes insulting. All capably describe Bert Sugar, boxing expert, man about town and life of many a party.  In June 2005, Bert was quick to generously share his knowledge of boxing with me prior to his IBHOF induction. I was seeking his opinions of the fight game at the moment and found Bert to be in his usual rare form, as he offered me his opinions and predictions. Phoning to schedule our visit, I got his answering machine and the raspy message “I'm not here right now, I'm out stealing hubcaps”. That set the tone for the interview. When Bert called me back I was driving and quickly pulled into the first place I saw- the parking lot of our local police station, and proceeded with my questions,  something Bert found humorously appropriate.

Some of Bert's comments from our interview in June 2005:

On the heavyweight division:
“ I’m still of the mind if you put all the heavyweight champs in a police line up in their gloves, robes and trunks, not only would no one know who they are, they wouldn’t know what the hell they did for a living!”

James Toney vs. John Ruiz:
“The worst part of it is we have Ruiz back again. I feel like Jack Nicholson in the “Shining”…”Heeere’s Johnny!” And it’s just as spooky...”

Bernard Hopkins vs. Jermain Taylor:
“VERY intriguing fight. We’ve been waiting for Hopkins to get old every fight…and it’s like the old theory about the watched pot. It hasn’t happened yet, and I don’t think it will happen against Jermain Taylor.”

Completing my story were words from some of Bert's peers, offering their congratulations on his pending IBHOF honor as well as relating a tale or two at his expense:

Steve Farhood, Showtime Boxing Analyst:
I’ve known Bert for 27 years. We were friendly rivals, he was the Ring Magazine editor and I edited KO Magazine. Bert Sugar has NEVER lost his sense of humor and has never lost his unique perspective on boxing. He really is a very brilliant man. He likes to play the clown a lot but in reality he has a very sharp mind and is well versed in many subjects other than boxing. I give Bert a lot of credit because he has created his own niche. There’s only one Bert Sugar, (thank GOD). And there could never be another one. As for Bert’s trademark hat, Steve had this to say: “I have been present on two different occasions when someone has grabbed Bert’s hat and ran with it. If you ever see a man ready to explode, it’s Bert when some one has taken his hat. I think he sleeps with it, and showers with it on as well.”

The late Pat Putnam:
“Sugar used to do a television show, which he usually taped ahead of time. At one of the Tyson fights in Las Vegas, Sugar talked Eddie Schuyler and me into being interviewed for his show. As a closer to the show, he asked us if we had one line we’d like to say that we had never been able to say. “Eddie?” said Bert. “I got one I’ve never been able to use,” said Eddie. “Thanks for buying me a drink, Bert.”

Arnie “Tokyo” Rosenthal, Rock & Sock Promotions, former FNN/SCORE Sports Network executive.
“I first knew of Bert from his days at Boxing Illustrated and later at Ring Magazine. I met Bert when he did the color commentary on the SCORE Network’s first live fight from Madison Square Garden. That night that in casual conversation Bert said he’d like to do a talk show on my network called “Not The Score”. In other words, anything else but the results, the antithesis of what our network was about. I smiled and said, “cool idea”. Well, I went to work on the project while Bert forgot about the conversation and went back to writing one of his books at his private table in Runyon’s Bar in Manhattan. My hard work paid off and I actually got a deal from Harrah’s in Atlantic City, thanks to Frank Gelb, to tape 13 episodes of “Not The Score”. So, where was Bert? I was in New York when I found out the show was a go but they wanted Bert and I in Atlantic City ASAP. I called Bert and said “The show is on!” and he said, “What show?” I reminded him of our conversation and he said, “No one ever follows up on those things.” I said, “Well, I do and meet me at the Heliport at 5 PM, we’re going to Atlantic City. He said, “I’m not wearing any socks,” to which I replied, “ Don’t worry, just be there.” And the show was thus born.”

Speaking with Bert on various occasions since the 2005 interview were conversations I appreciated, as was meeting him at the Cotto/Jennings fight at Madison Square Garden. Enjoying a cocktail after Cotto's victory, Bert did what he did best, hat and cigar firmly in place, verbally sparring with one and all. I was able to succeed where Eddie Schuyler and Pat Putnam failed- getting the chance to thank Bert for buying me a martini, and I bought him a scotch in return. Chatty repartee at a party is great, but having been able to know and call upon someone with Bert's passion and knowledge, was priceless.

 

Martinez Switches Gears And Stops Macklin!

By: Amy Green - March 18, 2012

Sergio Martinez again proved his ability to change a fight in a heartbeat with his eleventh round TKO win over Matthew Macklin.

Madison Square Garden on St. Patrick's Day before a sold out, rowdy crowd with  a large Irish contingent to support Macklin, Martinez took control of a close fight from rounds nine to the end as Macklin wore down,  his face wearing the the marks of Martinez's aggression. The excitement came none to soon, as the early rounds offered little action and a lot of feeling out. Martinez sprang to life after suffering an awkward  knockdown in the seventh round and dominated Macklin until the end, landing the landed the shots that bloodied the Irishman and sent him to the canvas. Trainer Buddy McGirt stopped the fight at the beginning of the twelfth round, giving Martinez the victory and saving Macklin from further punishment.

Comments from various Twitter feeds during the fight offered wide speculation of who Martinez could pair with next, with many hoping for a match with Floyd Mayweather, and a few tweeted their interest of a Martinez/Miguel Cotto bout. Depending on the outcome of Floyd Mayweather and Miguel Cotto, that could prove to be interesting. General opinion among those on Twitter was Top Rank would have no interest in putting Julio Chavez junior in front of Sergio Martinez. Martinez is too fast, has too much endurance, conditioning and angles for Junior to even finish the fight.

 

“On Freddie Roach”  Episode 2
By: Amy Green - January 29, 2012

Popular reality television consists of a glossy, sensationally edited peek into the lives of “Real” Housewives, or the “mah-jor” drama of Rachel Zoe's fashionista world: getting celebrities Spanxed, dressed, coiffed and Red Carpet ready. In stark contrast, director Peter Berg's second installment of “On Freddie Roach” aired Friday, January 27 on HBO. Berg deftly handles filming Freddie, creating a subtle impact as the scenes flow by, mercifully lacking in over the top blatant characterization and obnoxious dialogue, instead drawing from Freddie's calm demeanor and conversation to illustrate his story.

The debut episode established the extraordinary, yet humble life led by boxing trainer Freddie Roach, proprietor of the Wild Card Gym in Hollywood and also trainer of pound for pound champion Manny Pacquiao, and other popular fighters such as Amir Khan and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. Even more admirably, Freddie trains his fighters and balances work and life while coping with Parkinson's disease.

“I love what I do and I do what I love,” Freddie says as the second episode begins, and reveals a peaceful start to his day, capturing the methodical ritual of preparing coffee and a Nake shake, then painstakingly tidying up after himself in the kitchen. Cameras glance at the Popeye figurines and boxing trophies that adorn his Hollywood home. He dresses in the de rigeuer uniform of a Hall of Fame trainer- t-shirt, shorts, gym bag over the shoulder, then commutes the short distance to the Wild Card in a smart, black Mercedes CL63. The Mercedes clock reads 8:40 AM.

Arriving at the gym, it's business as usual- the daily hustle and bustle of the Wild Card. Phone ringing, bells punctuating the stop and start of three minute rounds, sounds of gloved fists on bags, all calmly overseen by Freddie.  “I started to like the sport,” he recalls. “Then I trained harder, and was the best fighter in our house, even better than Pepper.” Trainer Shane Langford coaches two boxing hopefuls, older brother Pepper is seen engaging in some punishing mitt work, showing visitors the gym and pointing out family photos of the Roach brothers in their fighting days. Boxing has been a part of Freddie's life from day one, raised by a mean father not afraid to let his hands go on his sons, or their mother Barbara. During their rough upbringing, Barbara suffered two black-eyes from her husbands punishment, upon which Freddie remarked “you must be pretty tough.” The words stung, and Freddie believes his mother “hated him for awhile,” and now goes to great lengths to see Barbara Roach wants or lacks for nothing.

While Barbara and assistant/gym manager Marie Spivey are coaxing the trainers and staff into their duties, Freddie is summoned by Shane Langford to the downstairs laundry. Pepper is discovered unable to stand, complaining of blurry vision. The morning takes a somber turn as the LAFD arrive and it's evident Pepper has suffered a stroke. Freddie informs rescue personnel of Pepper's stroke history, and quietly looks on as he is wheeled to the ambulance. Subdued, Freddie climbs the stairs to the gym, where there is a lull in the activity and retreats to the office. “Ah fuck,” he swears, voice breaking as he sheds tears, allowing himself a rare few moments of sadness before gathering his composure and returning to the ring. He takes up the mitts, moving and working with a fighter, secure and focused between the ropes. As the clock on his Mercedes reads 8:30 PM, Freddie heads toward home. Home is quiet in the twilight, signaling the end of the day, but Freddie settles down before his computer, inserts a disk, and in moments is intent on the image of fighters, still working.

“On Freddie Roach”
By: Amy Green - January 22, 2012

In the decade or so I've been following Freddie Roach, he has emerged as one of the most respected figures in the boxing industry, receiving countless accolades as a trainer- earning more acclaim and financial reward than he did in his 53 fight career under the guidance of Eddie Futch. From Olympian Virgil Hill to current day pound for pound superstar Manny Pacquiao, 26 years of training have seen Freddie produce 27 world champions. A Who's Who list of actors, celebrities and personalities make their way to Freddie's Wild Card Gym, to take in its steamy confines, located above a Chinese laundry in Hollywood, to watch the master at work with his fighters or absorb some of his wisdom.

Glimpses of Freddie's life were revealed in both HBO series “24/7” and “Real Sports”, which brought to life his Parkinson's Disease. Now HBO with director Peter Berg have again turned their cameras to Freddie Roach. “On Freddie Roach,” a six part reality series, debuted Friday, January 20- an up close and personal work that details his day to day existence. For reality television fans that avidly follow the Kardashians, or the Real Housewives- this may not be flashy or scandalous enough for your taste.

Freddie Roach is down to earth, humble and soft but plain spoken. Berg's filming begins in Las Vegas with Amir Khan the week of his fight with Zab Judah, trails him to an awards dinner and episode one ends in Hollywood. Freddie goes through his duties as Khan's trainer, the Parkinson's evident in the tremor of his left hand as he observes Khan run, then the tremor ceases as they engage in mitt work. A harsher side of Freddie rears its head as he scolds his assistant and former girlfriend Marie Spivey, bringing her to tears for conducting publicity business at dinner time. After the Khan-Judah fight Freddie endures a bit of rock star glory as a busty female boxing fan flashes him in a fit of admiration, but he appears unfazed at the display. Back in Hollywood, early morning scenes show Freddie having coffee, mulling over his prescriptions and showing some bare ass as he gets dressed. Some of the last footage in the episode, Freddie is at his neurologist's for an MRI, and we hear him express the sentiment he would rather be working because “I'll make it better at the gym.”

Working in the sweat and steam of the Wild Card, putting fighters like Manny Pacquiao and Amir Khan through the paces, all is well for Freddie Roach. He may take a little more punishment than his doctors approve of, but its all in a days work. Two different doctors have two different views on Freddie's Parkinson's. One believes it may not progress, the other believes it can and will. But Parkinson's is not the focus of his life. “I don't think about Parkinson's,” he said. “I just live through my day.”

Peter Berg has captured the day to day living of Freddie Roach. No narrative, just pure unscripted conversation punctuated occasionally by colorful language, with effective silent scenes as he labors intently, preparing to wrap Khan's hands or dresses for an awards dinner. These scenes demonstrate a contrast to the non stop events that command his days. Scenes are filmed at a pace that journeys from press conferences, fighter meetings, and ringside then home to Hollywood. There is no over the top, ridiculous drama that drives most reality shows. No 72 day marriages, infidelity or wardrobe crises clutter this effort. This series is cleanly edited and the outcome is a genuine look at a straight forward man who is hugely successful yet humble in a sport ruled by giant egos, who faces struggles with a calm tenacity. Freddie loves his job, the gym and his fighters, and wouldn't trade the life he leads or do anything differently. He's worked six days a week, putting in twelve hours a day, and at age 51, has traveled the world over, working his wisdom from a small corner, instilling strength, confidence and victory in the ones he guides into battle.

In The Green Room With William Shamar Whitt
By: Amy Green - January 05, 2012

Junior welterweight William Shamar Whitt of Brooklyn, NY is set to make his professional boxing debut January 28 at the Paramount in Long Island, NY. An amateur career (26-4) garnered William some prestigious titles: The New York Daily News Golden Gloves, Long Island State Championship and Empire State Games Trials. Those fights honed his skills, but long before winning any titles or fights,  William had to be a fighter.

“I've been though a lot,” William said. “Due to my parents being on drugs I was in foster care at a very young age. My mother and sister passed away in a fire when I was a senior in high school, a few months before graduation.”  Watching boxing growing up matched William's desire for “fighting in the streets”. “The toughness I have now is really something my older brother instilled in me, as well as life experience. It wasn't until the end of 2006 I decided to really join a boxing gym, Ardon Sweet Science Gym, where I still train today. My trainer saw something in me, and put me in my first fight two or three months later.”

William slept in the boxing gym when his life was at its lowest point, but fought through his struggles, worked to secure himself financially, and a year after his last amateur fight, decided to join the professional ranks. William took that time to focus on training to not only become a better fighter but become a better person, to be mentally and physically prepared. Now in the last stages of training for his debut, William is feeling great, and considers himself blessed to finally be taking this step. He credits his team, trainer Greg Ardon, his advisor and pro  fighters Angel Garcia, Paulie Malignaggi and  Gato Figueroa for giving him support and lots of hard work.

At 23, William has studied and worked to constantly improve his skills. He's a versatile boxer who possesses punching power, is an adept counter puncher and can think in the ring in the heat of battle. A student of the Sweet Science, Floyd Mayweather reigns as his favorite fighter, and from years of watching tapes of Ali, Louis, Ray Leonard and others, believes Floyd to be the best fighter he's seen.

Life dealt a cruel hand to William at an early age, but he's emerging a winner and has learned to make those hard times a positive  force in his boxing career. “What doesn't kill you only makes you stronger,” is a phrase he truly believes. “My life made me tougher,” he said. “I don't believe that anyone can beat me if what I've been through in life hasn't. Those experiences give me extra motivation whenever I think of slowing down.”

 

The Green Room: End of The Year
By: Amy Green - December 28, 2011

The year 2011 ends with Floyd Mayweather facing a 90 day stay in jail for domestic charges, Andre Ward finally putting an end to the Super Six tournament and a lot of scurrying and hurrying to put together year end awards for best of and worst of and etc. Looking back, there some matters still unresolved in boxing so there is much anticipation 2012 will provide some conclusions.

“Made in Miami” aired on OETA Monday evening, and chronicled Muhammad Ali's early days and his battles with Sonny Liston. This prompted the train of thought there are still limited heavyweight champion hopes for America. Undefeated Seth Mitchell (24-0) seems to be Golden Boy Promotions candidate. Mitchell scored a second round TKO win in his HBO debut against Timur Ibragimov on December 10. 18 of Mitchell's wins have been KO victories and he's yet to venture into deep waters with someone as rough and tough as Chris Arreola, or as relentless and gutsy as Tomasz Adamek. Here's to seeing what the New Year will bring for Mitchell- he's a big strong, handsome athletic guy, a family man, congenial, educated-- the perfect PR champion for sure. It would be a thrill to see him live up to his promotion and potential to be a heavyweight champion.

Manny Pacquiao. His win over Juan Manuel Marquez in their third meeting hardly pegged the excitement meter. It could be Marquez knows just enough of Manny to take away some of his offense and stymie him with defense. This bout made Manny look very beatable by Floyd Mayweather and the fight still needs to happen, when Floyd's incarceration obligation is fulfilled. Other intriguing matches for Manny Pacquiao could be a Miguel Cotto rematch and a date with Sergio Martinez. Cotto has some added dimension to his game with new trainer Pedro Diaz. Sergio Martinez has enough speed, strength, conditioning and unique style to create a challenge for Pacquiao.

Floyd Mayweather. 90 days in jail will hardly blunt his edge over Manny Pacquiao when they finally do meet. Floyd's skills are innate and he fights with precision. His emotions are in check, his guard is always up. Pacquiao is the polar opposite, his defense is his offense which creates carelessness and excitement. Floyd will outsmart and frustrate Pacquiao all the way to victory.

Women's boxing is still lacking the definition it needs and the backing of a solid promoter. The 2012 Olympics will provide some momentum, but those that have fought long and hard before this Olympic team should not get lost in their wake. With no efforts from such premier promoters as Top Rank and Golden Boy, or attention from HBO or Showtime, the veteran promoter Main Events and their new alliance with NBC would be satisfactory. NBC is a stellar network and draws millions of viewers- there are quite possibly women's boxing fans among those numbers. NBC and Main Events, should they dare take a chance on women's boxing could end up big winners when they “discover” these “new” athletes, who will bring new fans and new revenue to boxing.

Closing out 2011 with hopes of resolution for the new year!

 

"Minimal Risk”
By: Amy Green - November 30, 2011

Dark, dark sunglasses guard Antonio Margarito's eyes on the final episode of HBO's 24/7. The shades may offer Margarito protection from bright lights or inquisitive stares, or they may just contribute to his Cartel looking image. But they thinly disguise the doubt surrounding the eye itself.

Margarito's injured eye has been expertly examined by as many as five specialists, and he's been given a clean bill of health to fight Miguel Cotto December 3. The injuries he suffered facing Manny Pacquiao- the broken eye orbit surgically repaired, the resulting cataract removed and a corrective lens inserted to save his eye. Margarito also endured the rigors of training camp which included round after round of sparring, and his sparring partners bragged how hard they made these sessions on “Tony”. But when his eye is revealed, sans shades, the contrast to Margarito's good eye is startling. The pupil of his right eye is huge and dark, extremely dilated, giving him a slightly mad appearance, which plays perfectly with the villainous persona he's adapted in the weeks leading up to his rematch with Cotto. Miguel Cotto had made it known he plans to target the eye and make Margarito's risk his reward.

Will the surgically repaired eye of Antonio Margarito survive against the assault of Miguel Cotto? There will be no protective head gear like he had sparring, and Cotto will be coming at him at a weight of at least 153 pounds, wearing 10 ounce gloves. How is an eye tested for this kind of punishment? According to Ophthalmologist Dr. Ann Warn of the Dean McGee Eye Institute, and Clinical Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Oklahoma, the risk is minimal. Dr. Alan Crandall, Margarito's eye surgeon, could determine the fitness of his eye during the surgery. “Dr Crandall was able to see how the interocular tissue reacted,” she said, “and notice if there were any zonular weakness, and also after surgery make sure there was appropriate healing. Dr. Crandall has been an expert in our field for many, many years, and I'd trust his judgment.,” she said. “Replacement lenses last a lifetime now,” Dr. Warn said, and explained the cataract procedure. “They're either silicone or acrylic and very bio compatible with the eye. 20-25 years ago it would have been more dangerous- the incisions were larger and the materials not so compatible.” Dr. Warn said the cataract removal is performed with a 1.7 or even smaller 1.5 millimeter incision. The cataract is broken up and the implant is placed in the same bag the cataract was in. Detached retinas are a danger for boxers, but the cataract surgery and repair Margarito have undergone give him only a slightly higher risk than the 1% risk any cataract patient has for a detachment. The enlarged pupil of Margarito's right eye will remain that way, and Dr. Warn said, is likely the result of the previous pupil trauma from the Pacquiao fight.

“Minimal risk” seems anticlimactic in light of all the pre fight hype and speculation but there are still twelve rounds of a grudge match to be fought. Miguel Cotto and Antonio Margarito both have their eye on the prize of victory, and redemption and this fight promises to be no less than a war.

 

Cotto-Margarito Approved

By: Amy Green, BillyCBoxing.com - November 25, 2011

Tuesday, November 22 the NYSAC approved Antonio Margarito's license for his grudge rematch against Miguel Cotto on December 3 at Madison Square Garden. As simple as that sounds, it wasn't.

After enduing a major beating by Manny Pacquiao on November 13, 2010, Margarito was left battered and bruised, with a broken eye orbit requiring surgical repair, then later developed a cataract. A corrective lens was placed in his eye,and these measures rescued his eye and his career. To say the NYSAC erred on the side of caution in assuring Margarito's fitness to face Cotto is an understatement. Melvina Lathan, Edwin Torres and Thomas Santino held the boxing world at bay Tuesday afternoon during a 90 minute procedure that began an hour late, finally ending a convoluted chain of events that had Top Rank and promoter Bob Arum in a cliffhanger situation. IF New york would grant Margarito his license, or failing that, where to relocate the nearly sold out event.

There is no efficient way to sum up these events, Margarito was denied his license in New york, and on November 16 given the proper hearing to plead his case to fight December 3. Results of that hearing were eye experts Dr. Alan Crandall (who previously repaired Margarito's eye) and Dr. Rolando Toyo deemed Margarito able to fight. All seemed well until a commission doctor and member of the advisory panel to the NYSAC chose to disagree. This ruling ordered Margarito to leave training camp in Mexico and be examined by a doctor of their choice., As ordered, Margarito hopped a Top Rank chartered jet, hastily left Mexico and training camp, and spent Monday under the scrutiny of the NY commission doctor. As Monday drew to a close, Dr. Michael Goldstein, the commission approved ophthalmologist, agreed with the Top Rank doctors Rosenthal, Crandall and Toyo, that Margarito would be able to fight. Now the remaining hurdle was the final hearing between the NYSAC, Top Rank executives and Margarito's representatives.

During the 90 minute hearing, the boxing world was glued to various electronic devices for results. Twitter fluttered furiously with cliches, quips and speculation by tenured boxing scribes, PR experts and fight fans, creating an air of giddy suspense. Finally the news broke that Margarito was indeed approved and the grudge match with Cotto was a reality. Writers raced to file their accounts of the day and readers devoured the news.

Antonio Margarito, the eye of this storm so to speak, is a brooding, villainous presence throughout this drama. His face is twisted into a derisive scowl, his words for Miguel Cotto laced with loathing and contempt. He's so hateful it's chilling, and HBO has captured that persona, on 24/7 and Face Off, with the distance between Margarito and Cotto separated by an anxious Max Kellerman. It's easy to hate Margarito for his evil countenance alone, never mind the illegal hand wraps that nearly banished him from boxing, and created a fallout from the scandal that will likely never diminish.

In a little over a week, Cotto and Margarito meet again. Both sides have suffered damage- Cotto the defeat by Margarito's infamous hand wraps; Margarito still bears the scars of Manny Pacquiao's fists and the shame of the hand wraps he still denies. Both fighters promise revenge and victory in this ultimate good versus evil match, and are on a collision course to that conclusion, the way paved by drama and controversy. How this drama ends will be decided in a sold out Madison Square Garden, the extra seats likely snapped up after the hearing controversy. Top Rank made the best of a sticky situation, earning this match a battle hungry audience hyped to see a blood and guts war.

 

Third Time Not The Charm...
By: Amy Green, Billycboxing.com - November 14, 2011

Manny Pacquiao eked out a majority decision against rival Juan Manuel Marquez in a distance bout that failed to deliver the excitement of their previous two bouts and provide a solid conclusion to their trilogy.

Pacquiao was stymied by Marquez's defense and counter punching. The veteran Mexican warrior had indeed done his homework on the wily Filipino and slowed the tide of his all out aggression and was able to deliver some hard, head snapping shots, but Pacquiao still managed to edge him in activity. It was just as much a battle in the corners as in the middle of the ring, with trainers Freddie Roach and Nacho Beristain engaged in a war of wits. As calm as Freddie Roach was, Pacquiao sidekick Buboy Fernandez was highly animated in their native tongue, no doubt echoing Freddie's advice as the fight drew near the distance that he needed something dramatic to end the fight decisively in his favor. Across the way, Beristain praised Marquez on his performance and prematurely, assured his fighter he was winning handily.

During round 12, neither Marquez or Pacquiao landed blows or knockdowns that would make the fight a wider margin or leave no question who was the winner. Judges scoring of 116-112, 115-113 and 114-114 created near mayhem in the MGM arena, and a dissatisfied Marquez exited immediately to his dressing room, while a dispirited Pacquiao endured HBO's Max Kellerman and his post fight questions.

Cries of “robbery” rang loud and long from the ringside fans, in the media, and on social networking sites. Statistically, Pacquiao had a slim margin in power shots, and Marquez stayed in his role as counter puncher, limiting Pacquiao's offense and making him look for openings. In the final round Nacho Beristain made a critical mistake in allowing Marquez to believe he had a huge win on his hands. Realistically, Marquez needed to score a knock down or even a knockout to win as big as he thought he was and to silence any and all critics.

Promoter Bob Arum would gladly offer a fourth fight between Pacquiao and Marquez, and that would send Freddie Roach and his star pupil back to the drawing board to solve the puzzle of a master counter puncher like Marquez. Now of course, huge hopes are pinned on the Mayweather/Pacquiao fight finally becoming a reality in May. This needs to be considered long and hard based on Pacquiao's struggle against Marquez's style. Floyd would beat Saturday night's Manny Pacquiao easier than he did Marquez on instinct alone.

Post Fight Action....

Manny Pacquiao's promoters handled the post fight press events badly. Their actions only added insult to injury after what is widely considered a controversial ending, Top Rank, dog and ponied Manny Pacquiao to any and every media or entertainment outlet to hype the fight but  could only offer roughly three minutes of his time for reporters after the fact, while Marquez spoke with press for at least twenty minutes. Obviously there's a lapse in PR judgment here, The media was willing to give Pacquiao GENEROUS time and space before the fight, and should be afforded ample opportunity afterward, no matter the outcome. Think of the big picture- you're going to need your media, small and large, print and online, TV and radio, to put a positive face on whatever happens next for Manny Pacquiao,
 

Believe It or Not: Bernard Hopkins vs Chad Dawson Prediction
By: Amy Green - October 14, 2011

Saturday, October 15 Bernard Hopkins (52-5, 32 KO) will make the first defense of his WBC light heavy weight title against  Chad Dawson (30-1, 17 KO), who seeks to regain the title, after losing it to Jean Pascal in August 2010.  "Believe It or Not" airs on HBO PPV for $55, or fight fans can see the fight live at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
 
Bernard Hopkins has been defying critics, middle age and young opponents for nearly a decade, and shows no signs of slowing down, even at age 46. His career distinctions include a Guinness Book record as the oldest fighter to hold a title, and to commemorate this, a wax likeness of Hopkins was created by Ripleys and unveiled Wednesday at the Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum in Los Angeles.. Hopkins conquered  and dominated the middleweight landscape, and has managed his light heavy challenges with ease. There isn't anything Hopkins doesn't bring to the table boxing wise- he's got skill, experience, attitude, and unlimited confidence. Only 5 losses are on Hopkins resume, and he and Chad Dawson have a specific opponent in common- Jean Pascal. Pascal earned a draw decision in his December 2010  meeting against Hopkins, and Hopkins emerged the victor by unanimous decision in their May rematch, gaining the title.

Chad Dawson is 17 years younger than Bernard Hopkins, and his lone loss is the Pascal fight, when the light heavy title changed hands. Physically Dawson is in amazing condition, possesses strength, speed, dangerous skills and has youth on his side. He has often been labeled by boxing critics as a moody fighter, difficult to motivate, with a habit of changing and discarding trainers, and some very elite ones- such as Emanuel Steward and Floyd Mayweather Sr. Steward was replaced by John “Iceman” Scully, who trained Dawson in 2004-2005, when the Hopkins fight became a reality, after three years of campaigning for the bout. Reports from Scully on Dawson's camp in the Poconos reveal a fighter who's working hard to become the newer badder “Bad” Chad Dawson when he challenges Hopkins. Scully has witnessed a fighter with great work ethic and motivation, willing to listen, learn, and execute.

Hopkins and Dawson will be in the center of the ring on Saturday, but their corners are engaged in a battle of wits as John Scully faces the tactics of Nazim Richardson. Richardson has worked strategical magic with Hopkins since he parted ways with the late Bouie Fisher, guiding him with keen intuition and shrewd advice that works in perfect concert with Hopkins ring savvy and amazing skills. Scully, across the ring, will be debuting on his biggest stage as a trainer so far, and enters the battle with a strong, dangerous and newly confident fighter . He is unphased by the pre fight hype and Hopkins constant barrage of commentary. John Scully has gone quietly and skillfully about the task of preparing Chad Dawson to beat Bernard Hopkins. He knows the games Hopkins brings to the ring, the lengths he goes to to dictate the pace of the fight and manipulate the action. Scully has prepared Dawson to combat all aspects of Hopkins fight- mental and physical. Hopkins will encounter a strong, persistent jab by Dawson, and have to deal with the speed and strength of a younger fighter, who will punish Hopkins more than any opponents in recent history. Dawson will not give in to pressure or dirty fighting but remain composed and ready for the entire Hopkins repretoire.

Pre fight press has Hopkins encouraging Dawson to “come at me with his best stuff, I need him challenge me to try and knock me out.. You'll see the best of Bernard Hopkins is he does that.” Bernard Hopkins will be getting what he asks for- the best Chad Dawson, and when he does, “Believe It or Not” Bad Chad Dawson wins the WBC light heavy title.
 

Mayweather vs. Ortiz Prediction
By: Amy Green - September 15, 2011

Victor Ortiz, (29-2-2, 22 KO) is riding a six fight redemption streak after a TKO loss to Marcos Maidana in which Ortiz blatantly quit against an opponent hardly the popular choice to win, but also raised eyebrows throughout the boxing world by questioning his chosen profession. Did he have the heart, the guts and the determination to become a world champion?? To silence the critics and possibly address some serious self doubt, Ortiz went to work, and leading up to the biggest fight of his career with Floyd Mayweather (41-0, 25 KO) put together a nice succession of wins against some durable opponents, as well as scoring a draw against Lamont Peterson: Hector Alatorre, TKO 10; Nate Campbell, unanimous decision; Vivian Harris TKO 3; and Andre Berto by unanimous decision, which brought him the WBC welter title. The welter weight crown is on the line and in his first defense on September 17, Ortiz will face the undefeated Mayweather, who returns to the ring after a 16 month layoff. Hardly the time to have ANY doubts.

During the time Ortiz has been repairing his image and working to re-establish himself as champion material, Floyd Mayweather has seen no ring action but was hardly idle. The man nicknamed “Money” has fought through his usual legal tangles, battled a myriad of rumors both personal and professional, and kept the speculation about a future fight with Manny Pacquiao alive and well. Mayweather is going into the Ortiz bout as prepared as always and his team confidently predicts another victory.

Both fighters have been duly followed by the HBO 24/7 series, which revealed formative years for both that in no way resembled “Father Knows Best”. The cameras caught Floyd Jr. and Sr. in an ugly, intense argument that was painful to observe and no doubt hurt father and son on some level- they are after all human. Ortiz took the family pain and suffering to a new level by a covering tattoo on his back that read “Ortiz” after an emotional exchange with his estranged father.

Saturday, September 17, the 24/7 cameras, media outlets, teams and assorted “people” who support and maintain Floyd Mayweather and Victor Ortiz will all step back as the two step toward each other. Ortiz is ten years younger than Mayweather, one inch taller, fights southpaw, possesses good skills and is in great fighting shape. He's aggressive, putting Andre Berto down twice in their April fight and survived knockdowns in the second and sixth rounds to win the bout. Floyd Mayweather soundly defeated Shane Mosley after being rocked in his shoes in the second round of their May 2010 fight. He also survived a near riot against the chameleon like Zab Judah in 2008. Mayweather has fought brawlers, southpaws, taller and shorter fighters who all held some degree of skill in their arsenal they believed would be the tool to defeat him. And September 17 Victor Ortiz will bring his career best to try and bully and beat Mayweather, but to no avail. Ortiz will be overly aggressive which will lend some interesting moments to the fight but Mayweather with precision, speed, instinct and ring intelligence will combat any and all of Ortiz's efforts to win. Floyd will not seek a flashy KO victory but will go for a performance that humbles Ortiz, shows him more about boxing than his team ever could and makes him wish he had entered into a rematch with Berto or Peterson.

 

Kaliesha West Visits the Green Room
By: Amy Green  June 5, 2011

Saturday, June 18, Kaliesha West ( 13-1-2, 4 KO's) makes her initial WBO bantamweight title defense in a rematch against Ava Knight (6-1-2, 3 KO's). The two last battled in November 2008 for the IFBA North American bantamweight title, with Knight winning the match. Kaliesha is more than ready to avenge this loss,  and it's obvious  there is no stopping this determined young champion. “I was supposed to defend my title earlier in the year, but I had a bad car wreck in January and had some really bad whiplash so the WBO gave me an extension,” West said. “This caused a delay in my fighting, defending my, title and also from making my TV debut on a James Toney card.”

With a true warrior mentality, Kaliesha pressed on. Training after injuries she admitted was “rough going in March and April,” but with her recovery has trained even harder. Always busy, Kaliesha is still working at the Loma Linda United Medical Center and will resume college soon, looking to major in business, A diligent student of the Sweet Science, Kaliesha has ventured into boxing journalism, first as a photographer for La Prensa newspaper, and writing in Uppercut Magazine for esteemed West Coast boxing editor David Avila. “I was taking photos for David at La Prensa, and he offered me the opportunity to cover a fight by Thompson Promotions. It was round by round coverage of a very close fight,” Kaliesha said. Avila, recognizing Kaliesha's talent, encouraged her to make the most of any writing opportunities that came her way, and in the course of being interviewed by Brad Cooney at 8CountNews, she ended up writing for that site. “ Brad is lenient with my schedule, and it allows me to be a part of boxing.” Being a part of boxing, aside from fighting is definitely something Kaliesha has her eye on in the future, when her days in the ring are over. “Some people, boxing is all they know,” Kaliesha said. “ but I've always had honors classes, and the education, and I know I can branch into the business side of boxing, clean it up, and do some good for the sport.” “I'd love to,” she continued. “I started in boxing when I was so young and will still have the opportunity to do something great after I retire.”

Longevity in boxing is something Kaliesha appreciates, and Bernard Hopkins victory over Jean Pascal May 21 is no exception. “It was one of the best in his (Hopkins) career!” she exclaimed. “He didn't fight like a 46 year old. He fought like he was in his prime. The ref was favoring Pascal, and was real strict. It forced Hopkins to fight a little different, and he got caught more than usual. He was less cautious, but proved he could take Pascal's best, keep coming like a champion and win.”

After a 68 fight amateur career and five years as a professional boxer, Kaliesha has garnered her first world title and is both an aggressive and slick boxer, comparing her style to Floyd Mayweather and Edwin Valero, but she is also stubborn and tenacious, as was evident in her draws with veteran Ada Velez and in the difficult overseas arena against Anita Christensen.

Ranked as the number one bantamweight in the USA and third in the world, Kaliesha is one of the top stars in women's boxing and is anxious to see what kind of impact the 2012 London Olympics will have on her sport. “To me, it will help women's boxing as a whole,” Kaliesha said, “if the USA can come home with medals. If none of our girls win, women's boxing could stay the way it is. But- if one girl wins, and wins a gold medal, she will be promoted, have endorsements, and then promoters will begin looking at other female fighters. Women winning in the Olympics will be memorable and make history, and if it's a memorable win, will be bigger than Laila Ali or Christy Martin were, and bring so much more attention to our sport. Then when the Olympic fighters turn pro, there are all of us who have been fighting ready to take them on and prove ourselves.”

Until the Olympic crop of female boxers is ready, Kaliesha is the main event against Ava Knight on  June 18, at the Pico Rivera Arena in Pico Rivera, Ca. Promoted by Master Shawn Shilati and Red Scorpion, the card features Muay Thai and MMA bouts, and the only boxing match is Kaliesha West vs Ava Knight. Is this a daunting thing- defending her title against  the  fighter she suffered her first loss to, coming off a car wreck and a tough training camp? Born in Michigan, Kaliesha offers a quote from Detroit native Eminem off his recent track, “I'm Not Afraid.” “Yeah it's been a ride, but I had to go to that place to get to this one. I'mma be what I set out to be, without a doubt undoubtedly”.

"Well Behaved Women Rarely Make History"