WATCH BURGOS VS MARTINEZ LIVE STREAM BOXING

This coming January 15, 2010 we will showcase another boxing title match. The WBC Caribbean Boxing Federation (CABOFE) featherweight title is at stake as Juan Carlos Burgos will be defending it against Juan Carlos Martinez.

The BURGOS VS MARTINEZ world title match is presented by Arthur Pelullo’s Banner Promotions and this event will be taking place at the Laredo Entertainment Center at the Arena Boulevard in Laredo, Texas.

The main event of BURGOS VS MARTINEZ and some selected fights will be televised LIVE by ESPN2 and ESPN Deporte, ESPN360.com, and other websites that has TV Online Services.

WATCH BURGOS VS MARTINEZ LIVE STREAM BOXING

Juan Manuel Marquez Stucked?

A fighter who has unquestionably made his mark in the minds of hardcore fight aficionado's, yet failed to cement that legacy by decisively winning those ring moments which many viewed as career defining. When you take a look at the ledger of historical Mexican fighters in the sport over the years, an intriguing contingent would actually argue that he is possibly one of the most fundamentally blessed of them all. How has that translated during his 50 wins, 4 losses, 1 draw, and 37KO's, spanning over a long 16 year tenure? Apparently not enough to remove questions from the equation. At 36 years old and having 3/4 of his career already in the rear-view mirror, oddly enough, the biggest question surrounding him relates to his peak. Critics feel as though he has passed it, supporters feel as though he hasn't reached it, radicals feel as though he has yet to even truly define it. The interesting thing is that depending on which fights you take into consideration, each of those answers hold a certain amount of weight.

For those that take into account the second Pacquaio fight, where he performed well enough to make it interesting, yet not well enough to seal the deal, left many feeling that perhaps his better days are truly behind him.. If you take into account his latest victory over the always 'game' Juan Diaz, you may subscribe to the theory that perhaps, maybe, he has finally reached it (his peak). Then you have the first fight against Pacquiao, where he tasted the canvas three times and still found a loophole to claw his way back into the fight. After walking through the fire to nearly steal that show, those who covet this fight close to their heart may argue the performance was a great example which supports the possibility of him not even really defining his greatness - as there surely seemed to be quite a bit more where that came from when all was said and done. Each of those fights provide a different insight, but when you look at the total and complete body of work, the consistency versus inconsistency argument truly opens space for a great debate. In 2006, Marquez squared off against a fighter (Chris John) who only seems to crack my personal pound for pound list - (for few others appear to have taken note). Leading up to that fight, I thought it would be an excellent guage for Marquez to see how he would handle himself against an opponent who's fundamental skills parallel that of his own. Few have looked at this particular fight when studying the worth of Marquez, but I think it provided a very solid glimpse into a trend that hasn't seemed to go away.

That trend was the fact that Marquez has routinely performed quite well, but to echo the sentiment of his biggest critics, he has often failed to have his hand raised when the final bell rang in a marquee showdown. That particular trend is a very curious one, because his next opponent brings a blueprint to the ring that remains easy to read, yet invariably hard to comprehend. The shoulder rolls, the careful precision, the precise knack for knowing when and where to show how and why. Floyd Mayweather jr. will undoubtedly serve as a very stiff task for Marquez, challenging everything he has ever stood for and providing every trap he ever fell against. A win over Mayweather opens the door to a few future grand opportunities, while a loss would mean both, a huge mountain to climb, and an exclusive residence in the proverbial 'middlegrounds'. Meaning that he wouldn't be quite relegated to the basement venues of the world, but he would clearly no longer attract the Mayweather/Pacquiao type opposition. Such a middlegrounds could be fruitful for the sport. That middleground would place him within range of a very loaded jr. welterweight division that would keep him in the company of other greats trying to reach that mega fight status....guys like Campbell, Bradley, Khan, and Devon Alexander, to name a few. So what happens going forward for Marquez will have a lot to do with what he does in the present (against Mayweather), and perhaps even a lot to do with what he has done in the past (the countless amount of wars he has encountered over 16 years). So, as we wait to see whether it'll be forward progress or another backwards decline, Marquez once again remains stuck in the moment.. But on the morning of Sunday, September 20, when the headlines go to print, one way or the other, this moment too shall pass.

Watch Live Stream Floyd Mayweather Fight | Watch Floyd Mayweather Fight

In the early 1900's there was a heavyweight who defied the status quo, refusing to be denied his shot at the worlds most coveted trophy, boxing's Heavyweight Championship. When he got his chance 'The Galveston Giant' wrested the Championship away from Canadian Tommy Burns and further cemented his hold on the title by defeating former undefeated champion Jim Jeffries in 'The fight of the Century' on July 4th 1910. African Americans rejoiced Johnson's victory even while race riots were going on all around the country sparked by Johnson's victory. Johnson flirted with and around the norms of 'the day', was flashy and boisterous, and always had something to say that many did not like or agree with.. Filmmaker Ken Burns while producing a documentary about Jack Johnson noted that "For more than thirteen years, Jack Johnson was the most famous and the most notorious African-American on Earth." Joe Louis who succeeded Johnson as a black Heavyweight Champion in the 1930's followed a different set of rules during his tenure as heavyweight champion and even refused to allow Johnson to become his trainer and opted instead for former fighter Jack 'Chappie' Blackburn himself a Johnson contemporary.

Fast forward to the 1940's when the up-and-coming lightweight soon-to-be welterweight prospect Ray Robinson hit the boxing scene. As Robinson ascended the boxing ladder going undefeated in his first 40 fights, his flashiness, outspoken demeanor and hard bargaining at the money table for fights branded him a troublemaker and many did not like him. Promoters looked for opponents who could wipe that smile off of Robinson's face, shut his mouth, 'ugly him up a little' and reduce his asking price which around that time was $300K a fight! Carmen Basilio a Robinson foe from the 50's was very upset with Robinson as were many fight fans for him failing to fight Basilio in the rubbermatch. As much as Robinson is loved and revered now he was disliked then because even though it wasn't the norm during those times he stood up for what he believed in and didn't bite his tongue or clench his teeth while doing so, he also drove a pink Cadillac.

In the 1960's a young kid from Louisville came along to grace the squared ring his name was Cassius Clay. This brash, outspoken kid followed Johnson, and Robinson to become a loathed figure in boxing. Clay even said that Jack Johnson was a better heavyweight champion than Joe Louis and that he would be also. Statements like this, his taunting of opponents and predictions of the rounds when he would end a fight had many seeing him as cocky and boastful making him a hated figure. The final straw was his conversion in 1964 to the Muslim faith and membership in Elijah Muhammad's-himself a hated figure, Nation of Islam; he also renamed himself Muhammad Ali. Most refused to recognize Muhammad Ali as his name and continued to refer to him as Cassius Clay. His refusal to be inducted in the Armed Forces during the Vietnam era further alienated Ali from boxing fans, Americans in-general and the American Government. Ali commented on his refusal to be inducted into the Army by saying "ain't no Vietnamese ever called me nigger"!! For this Ali was stripped of his titles and refused a license to fight in any state in America.

Winston Churchill once said "Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it". Much of the dislike for the boxing's current 'most hated' comes from his going against the grain, his self-confidence, his flashiness and outspoken views, sound familiar?? Everything from the opponents he chooses to fight and his personal life are topics of debate and criticism from without. No matter whom he faces and defeats it is NOT enough, there is always a disparaging viewpoint, this opponent is too small, that opponent was past his prime, he ran from this guy, he's afraid of that guy. While other guys who fought the same opponents are praised! Mayweather's upcoming fight against Mexican star Juan Manuel Marquez has been panned as another 'big man picking on the smaller man' fight! I wonder what would be said right now if Mayweather had REFUSED Marquez' challenge?? Or Hatton’s?? America has to have a bad guy and I guess that it'll just have to be 'Money May' until someone else comes along.

Doctor Warns Ricky Hatton of his Health Status

Ricky Hatton recently spent a short amount of time in hospital, after he was admitted with a stomach ailment. "The Hitman" has since been released and he is feeling fine, but during tests the doctors noticed an irregular heartbeat. The discovery of this heart irregularity has concerned medical experts to the point where they have ordered the 30-year-old British boxing legend to either drastically alter his infamous binge drinking and fast food eating lifestyle, or quit the ring. Hatton, who will undergo more tests shortly, has been ordered to rest up for a month, and that his health could be at risk by over-exercising and training. Over the years, whilst picking up major titles and proving to be a huge success in the boxing ring, Hatton has cheerfully laughed off any concerns people have had about his ballooning in weight between fights. Accused by some in the sport of not in any way living the correct lifestyle needed to be as good a fighter as possible, Ricky got away with doing things as he wanted for a long time. Now, however, if he fights again it seems he must change his ways. Hatton has made no public comment about this latest news regarding his health. "Ricky thinks it's all a storm in a teacup, feels fit as a fiddle and wants to carry on training and fighting.", close source to Ricky said. Of course, Hatton has yet to even make up his mind about fighting on again or not. Still to decide what to do after the brutal KO he suffered at the hands of pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao on May 2nd, Hatton has laughed at various reports suggesting he may fight this or that fighter. It may be, though, that this latest scare will persuade the former 140-pound ruler to pack in boxing after all. Some people involved in the sport have already suggested that Hatton quit the game, including promoter Frank Warren. At 30, Hatton is young enough to change his lifestyle, but Ricky really would have to make a huge adjustment with regards to giving up the booze and food he likes so much. And the doctors have made it clear that Ricky cannot live a carefree life and then clean up and torture his body in ten or twelve week training camps any longer.

De La Hoya Signs A Golden Trio Of Young Boxers

Hailing from the same Southern California fight scene that launched the career of boxing superstar Oscar de la Hoya, former amateur standouts Luis Ramos Jr., Carlos Molina and Ronny Rios have started on their own roads to glory, already combining for a 23-0 professional record. Now they're teaming up with De La Hoya and Golden Boy Promotions to take on the world, as this standout trio has signed exclusive promotional agreements with Golden Boy Promotions..

"I followed Luis, Carlos and Ronny as they went through the amateur ranks, immediately recognized their talent and watched how they have gotten better and better with each fight," said De La Hoya, President of Golden Boy Promotions. "I see a great future in this game for all three of them, both in and out of the ring. While Los Angeles area fans already know this, the rest of the world is going to find out about them very soon." Frank Espinoza, manager of the Los Angeles area trio added, "I've been privileged to work with these fine young men for a while now and given their potential, Golden Boy Promotions was the only firm we considered teaming up with on our way to world championships. Oscar and his team are the gold standard when it comes to boxing promotion and we couldn't be in better hands."

Ramos Jr., Molina and Rios will make their debuts under the Golden Boy Promotions banner when they each see action on the July 30 "Fight Night Club" event at Club Nokia at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

THE FIGHTERS Are:

Luis Ramos Jr.

A talented southpaw who has garnered rave reviews thus far in his professional career, Santa Ana, California lightweight Luis Ramos Jr. (11-0, 6 KO's) is seen by many fight game insiders as a young fighter with true championship potential and crossover appeal. A boxer since the age of seven, Ramos Jr. went on to ring up an impressive 120-16 amateur slate. After falling short of a spot on the 2008 U.S. Olympic team, Ramos Jr. decided to turn pro and in October of 2007 he debuted with a first round knockout of Christian Jose Reyes. Since then, the 20-year-old has been perfect as a professional and in his last bout on June 11, he knocked out 36-fight veteran Baudel Cardenas in five rounds.

"This is a dream come true, said Ramos Jr. "I'm looking forward to a long career and to making things better for my family through boxing," "I'm really excited and never expected that one day I would be signed with Oscar who I always watched growing up. This proves that dreams can come true if you work hard enough."


Carlos Molina

A former National Amateur Champion, 20-year-old Carlos Molina has begun his assault on the professional ranks in impressive fashion, compiling a perfect 7-0 record with 3 KO's in the lightweight division. That includes a shutout six round win over 53-fight veteran Anthony Martinez in his last bout on May 21st. Known for a fan-friendly style based on blazing speed and pinpoint accuracy, the native of Commerce, California guarantees excitement whenever he steps into the ring.

"I'm happy to be a part of Golden Boy Promotions, who is the best promoter out there," said Molina. "I feel really blessed to be where I am and I'm looking forward to making a name for myself through this company."


Ronny Rios

One of the most decorated amateurs to hit the boxing scene in recent years, National Golden Gloves and two-time U.S. Amateur Champion Ronny Rios (5-0, 2 KO's) is well on his way to duplicating his amateur success as a professional. Just 19 years old, the Santa Ana, California featherweight is coming off a 2nd round knockout of 20-fight veteran Alvaro Muro in May and is drawing more and more comparisons to a young Oscar de la Hoya with each passing victory for his style and speed in the ring.

"I'm very flattered to be here and excited to perform for Golden Boy Promotions as they are the biggest promoter in the sport today," said Rios. "I feel that there is a lot expected of me right now and I'm ready to meet those expectations."

Manny Pacquiao Versus Cotto on November

Pacquiao (49-3-2, 37 KOs), of General Santos City, Philippines, has won six world titles in as many different weight divisions ranging from 112 to 140 pounds. His performance in 2008 was described as “Henry Armstrongesque,” winning world titles at 130 and 135 pounds with victories over Juan Manuel Marquez and David Diaz, respectively, and knocking out and retiring Oscar De La Hoya at 147 pounds to finish the trifecta. This year, he picked up where he left off last year – winning another world title in a new weight division -- dealing defending junior welterweight champion Ricky Hatton a one-punch second-round knockout on May 2.

BOB ARUM, CEO of Top Rank, announced today that the mega-fight between boxing’s No. 1 pound-for-pound king and the reigning Boxing Writers Association of America’s (BWAA) Fighter of the Year, MANNY “PacMan” PACQUIAO, and the pride of Puerto Rico and three-time world champion MIGUEL COTTO is official. “Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto have reached an agreement to fight at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas on Saturday, November 14,” said Arum. The fight will be seen live on HBO Pay-Per-View. Top Rank is working on a major media tour to start right after Labor Day. Further details will be announced as we get closer to kicking off the tour..”

Cotto (34-1, 27 KOs), from Caguas, Puerto Rico, has sold more tickets at Madison Square Garden in this millennium than any other fighter. He has held a world title every year since 2004. Puerto Rico’s most exciting fighter, Cotto held the World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior welterweight crown from 2004-2006, successfully defending it six times before vacating it to capture the World Boxing Association (WBA) welterweight title at the end of 2006, a title he held for nearly as long. He won his second welterweight title in February this year, knocking out Michael Jennings in the fifth round at Madison Square Garden to become the WBO welterweight champion. Notable scalps on Cotto’s belt include Sugar Shane Mosley, Zab Judah, Joshua Clottey, Pauli Malinaggi, and Demarcus Corley.

Ricky Hatton Is Not Thinking A Fight With Amir Khan

Now out of hospital (Hatton was hospitalised due to a reported stomach bug), Ricky has been speaking to his local newspaper, The Manchester Evening News. And guess what, he's not in the slightest bit interested in a fight with Khan, nor has he even thought about fighting again at all.

After Amir Khan's sensational and impressive points win over Andreas Kotelenik at the weekend there was much talk at the post-fight press conference about the new WBA 140-pound champion making a defence down the road against fellow Brit, Ricky Hatton. Khan himself was somewhat interested in the fight, as was his trainer Freddie Roach. Promoter Frank Warren was dead against it, claiming the fight would be nothing more than a risk to Hatton's health. But what does the man himself think about the prospective UK super-fight?

"I'm not thinking about boxing at the moment," Ricky told the paper. "Maybe I'll wake up one day and think 'let's give it another go,' but I might not. I'm not missing it. Fighting is the furthest thing from my mind.

"I'm delighted for Amir. I can't praise him enough. He's gone back to the drawing board and answered any questions there might have been about him. But the fact that he's won a world title has not made me any closer to a comeback. It hasn't entered my head. I don't think I have to beat Amir Khan to prove anything."

So there it is, Hatton, now over two months on from his brutal KO loss to Manny Pacquiao, has yet to decide if he'll ever fight again, against anyone, let alone Khan.

Indeed, what Hatton said next to the newspaper gave the strongest indication yet that he might well be content with what he's achieved in the ring and be ready to walk away.

"When I look back at my career nobody expected me to do what I've done," the 30-year-old said. "I won five titles at two different weights. I've only lost to the pound-for-pound best fighters in the world. If I don't fight again I can hold me head high.

Ricky is right when he says he can hold his head up high if he fights again or not. He is also correct when he says he does not have to prove anything by beating Khan. The only thing, to my mind, that could tempt him to fight again is the desire to go out a winner, as opposed to going out the way he did against Pacquiao.

Amir Khan will have to make the first defence his WBA crown against someone else, something that will please his promoter at least.

However, of all the interviews Hatton has given since May 2nd, this latest one most makes it sound as though "The Hitman" has done all the fighting he's going to do. Inevitably, though, rumours will continue to pop up regarding one comeback fight or another.

"Maybe somewhere down the line I might think about giving it another go and if he's still world champion then obviously he would be a possibility."

Beating Floyd Money Mayweather

Beating Mayweather up to this point has been something that no fighter has been able to achieve. Not even the Big Show from WWE fame was able to KO the slick tactician of the sweet science. Here is a formula and game plan that I believe if executed properly, could hand Mayweather his first defeat.

I would like to start off with saying that even though I don’t care a great deal for Floyd, I recognize and greatly respect his natural ability and god given talents that he’s been blessed with. He is easily the quickest and most dominant fighter that I have seen in the sport since Roy Jones Jr. in his prime. Both had the incredible talent to easily embarrass and out point they’re opponent while going virtually untouched through out the fight. My point being only a top tier opponent would be able to execute this game plan that I am about to put forth. This will only work for fighters like Marquez or Pacquiao who are phenomenal in they’re own right, but are considered by most to be less talented in comparison to a Mayweather, and therefore less likely to pull off a victory against him. B level opponents need not apply! Sorry Victor Ortiz.

This strategy even makes more sense now than it did a couple of months ago when the Mayweather vs. Marquez fight was first scheduled, and more than likely wont come as that big of a shock to any real followers of the sport. Supposedly the original fight date was postponed to the September 19th date due to a rib injury that Mayweather suffered early in training camp. Three words folks, “WORK THE BODY”! Kill the body and the head will follow as the say, and with Mayweather I feel that this would hold especially true.

Marquez would be an absolute fool not to try and test how well Mayweather’s rib has healed by launching a constant assault to the body. Even if there was no rib injury what so ever Marquez would be well served to focus the bulk of his efforts to the body of Mayweather. In fact for the at least the first six rounds of the fight Marquez should throw almost nothing but punches to the body, other than a jab upstairs.

Now this was supposed to be the strategy for Mayweather’s fights with De La Hoya as well as Ricky Hatton, but once in the ring with Mayweather both had trouble sticking to and executing that game plan. Maybe it was because they both disliked Floyd so much that they found it irresistible to try and damage Floyd’s pretty face. What ever the reason it didn’t happen and Floyd’s slick style and boxing skills prevailed.

I realize that Floyd’s incredible defense and great lateral movement is just one of the elements that make him so remarkably hard to beat, but that can be neutralized. Marquez must cut the ring off to combat Floyd’s constant movement rather than chasing him moving forward. He also needs to make it a rough physical fight when getting in close with Mayweather pressuring him into hopefully making a mistake.

After the sixth round or so Marquez could start going upstairs a bit more with his punches at a ratio of about 5/20. That’s five head shots for every 20 body shots thrown. Now nobody really knows how good Mayweather’s chin is since its never really been tested due to his defensive greatness but maybe just maybe Marquez could find out using the strategy I’m proposing?

At the very least using this formula he would be able to grind out a decision victory handing Floyd his first loss. The body is a larger and more stationary target than the head so it makes much sense to attack it with consistency while being aware of the counter punching Mayweather. Lets see how healed that rib is? This is truly the only path to victory for Marquez.

On September 19th Juan Manuel Marquez (50-4-1 37 KO’s) collides with the former pound 4 pound king and undefeated super star Floyd Money Mayweather (39-0 25KO’S). True boxing fans are routing for this to be a great fight that will answer two questions. One, does Mayweather still have what it takes to the reclaim his crown as the pound 4 pound king of boxing? Two, or does Marquez possess the skills & ability to pull off a major upset, and further his right to be regarded as the new pound 4 pound king?

Pacquiao Challenges The Best Before He Retires

Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, the pound for pound king has two to three more fights left before he enters once again the political arena in the Philippines come 2010. He is seeking to win a congressional seat for the second time after losing to Darlene Antonino during the 2007 Philippines national elections.

To put an exclamation mark to Bob Arum’s statement he made after the May 2 annihilation of Pacquiao to Britain’s Ricky Hatton, that his boxer is “the greatest boxer who have ever lived”, the pound for pound king has to fight who the fight fans wants him to fight.

Obviously, fight fans wants Pacquiao to challenge the best boxers before he retires, particularly those who are calling him out..

There are four or at least three possible opponents that Team Pacquiao may consider. Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Juan Manuel Marquez have to be counted as one, since the winner of their July 18 bout; hopefully will be challenged by the Pacman.

Instead of a five month rest for the October 17 comeback fight, Pacquiao should fight as early as August for a tough “tune-up” fight against Edwin Valero, the undefeated WBC lightweight Champion.

Pacquiao and Valero have been trash-talking for quite some time. It can be recalled that Valero accused Pacman as a taxi driver dominator pointing out that he has dominated weak opponents during the early years of his career.

Pacquiao in return reacted and stressed that Valero’s perfect record was all but scratch because his past opponents were “tuktuk” drivers.

Even if Valero was a VIP at Pacquiao’s grand birthday celebration December last year and are stable mate under Top Rank promotions, there is still bad blood among the two boxers.

After the two rounds demolition over former boxing champ Antonio Pitalua several months ago, Valero using an interpreter called out on Pacquiao to give him a challenge this year.

He called Pacquiao “the monster from the Philippines” adding that “no one can take my punch”. If this fight happens, it will surely be a mega-fight. It’s not a “tune-up” fight after all. Valero has all the skills that could knock anyone who has the same weight that he has.

But Valero should now train to move his head. He has the tendency of a Hatton fight-style who has cement stocked between his neck and his head. Pacquaio would surely love that target.
But to settle all the trash-talks and see who has a better punching power, this fight surely has to happen.

Recently, WBA welterweight champ Sugar Shane Mosley made a statement that he is ready to reclaim his No. 1 pound for pound status calling out Pacquiao to give him a challenge.

This certainly is also a must fight before he retires. The pound for pound king versus a former pound for pound king who held that position several years ago.

Mosley is definitely a tough warrior who is in the pound for pound list and is ranked No. 4 which is similar to the list I gather every week.

Mosley’s power cannot be taken for granted as he possesses a high knockout ratio which consists of 46 wins, 39 of this coming by way of knockout. His last victim early this year was former champ Antonio Margarito.

Pacquaio and Mosley could meet up and slug it out at the catch weight of either 143 or 144 pounds. Can Mosley avenge the loss of his business partner Oscar De la Hoya? We will have to find that out when they face each other.

But, before Pacquiao takes politics seriously next year a fight with whoever emerges as the winner between Mayweather and Marquez is a big “must”.

Like Valero, Mayweather have been badmouthing Pacquiao for many months. To zip that mouth up, Pacquiao really needs to put up with this challenge. He has to challenge Mayweather who believes that he is “still” the pound for pound king.

The Pretty Boy is still undefeated and continuously boasting about his greatness as a boxer. Can Pacquiao stain that unblemished record of Mayweather?

If ever Marquez scores a win over Mayweather, the trilogy of Pacquiao and the Mexican warrior must take place.

Their first two fights are very close and controversial as to who should have been victorious. Boxing analysts worldwide are halved with conviction who really won the first and second fight. It could have gone either way.

To settle the issue once and for all, a third fight between the two explosive fighters must occur should Marquez beat Mayweather on July 18.

So to be called the greatest fighter who has ever lived, Pacquiao needs to fight these warriors in the boxing ring. He has to settle the issues and defeat those who are calling him for a challenge.

But is should be a win-win situation for Pacquaio, because if he fails, it could affect his bid for congress in the May 2010 elections in the Philippines.

eastsideboxing.com

Manny Pacquiao wants Mayweather

In the report on the local television news program, world boxing champion and pound for pound king, Manny Pacquiao was interviewed about his schedules on at the ring.

While Floyd Mayweather admires Manny Pacquiao's fighting style but re-assured himself that the latter cannot knock him down, Manny Pacquiao then takes the challenge. Manny said he wants to have Mayweather since he was really challenging, he wants him because people are talking this fight. He wants to prove something on Floyd Mayweather.

The tentative schedule was set on October 17, 2009 and he will challenge whoever wins between Mayweather and Marquez fight on July this year. The popular Filipino boxer who recently scored a second round knock out against Ricky Hatton of England said that he is willing to face Mayweather at any weight between 142-145 pounds.

Mayweather Talks About Pacquiao, Hatton

The Floyd Mayweather-Juan Manuel Marquez hype show rolled into London yesterday, and as usual 32-year-old "Money" Mayweather had plenty to say. Speaking primarily about two fighters, in Manny Pacquiao and Ricky Hatton - the former being a potential rival for the future, the latter being a conquered foe - Mayweather had some interesting stuff to say.

Floyd knows only too well the majority of fans worldwide want him to meet up with the man who took over his spot at the top of the pound-for-pound pile, and the 39-0(25) master said yesterday that if and when he and the Filipino superstar do meet he will beat him.

"If the Pacquiao fight presents itself after this one [Vs. Marquez], then I'll lay the blueprint on how to beat him," Mayweather said yesterday.. "Pacquiao's a good fighter but he can be got. He was knocked out twice before and I'm a slick, smart boxer. I would tie him up. There's a science to this game and I could adapt to any style. Pacquiao was out-boxed by Erik Morales."

Pacquiao may well have been stopped twice before, but on both occasions the southpaw was still very much a work in progress and fighting in a much lower weight class. Mayweather is right when he says "Pac-Man" was out-boxed by Morales, though. Clearly that fight makes the unbeaten great believe he can do the same thing to Manny. It would be an entirely different fight though. Let's hope we do get to see it. At least Mayweather is talking about the possibility.

As he was in Britian, the subject of Ricky Hatton was bound to come up. Mayweather pulled no punches while discussing "The Hitman's" fighting future - he said he has not got one.

"Ricky's career was over in 2007 when he met me," Floyd said. "He was a gutsy, tough champ but there's a time in every boxer's career when they must hang it up. He was knocked out twice - by me and Pacquiao. They were two devastating defeats. He's been in a lot of tough fights and taken some big shots.

"Gaining weight and drinking - you can't have that sort of lifestyle in boxing. You have to take your job seriously. I don't think Ricky should fight again. I wouldn't fight him again, even at Wembley. It would be like picking on a guy we call gun shot. His head won't be the same."

Hatton, as fans know, was very much dreaming of having an opportunity to get revenge over Mayweather, very possibly at Wembley some time next year; but this was ruined when Pacquiao destroyed him in just two rounds.

Speaking on the May 2nd fight, Mayweather said his father, who trained Hatton for the fight, of course, should not be in any way blamed for what happened.

"I don't want everyone over here ripping my father to shreds," Floyd said with regards to Hatton's quick KO loss. "It wasn't my dad's fault. My dad told him to go out, relax, use his jab and be smart. There's this other trainer, Lee Beard, and Ricky was listening to him. No disrespect to Lee but has he fought? A lot of the time trainers try to tell fighters what to do without having been in combat. My dad has been in combat before."

Speaking respectfully about his father as he did, Floyd made a lot of sense. The word is the two Mayweathers are back on good terms. Maybe Senior will work Junior's corner in the fight he is currently hyping up?

Marquez-Mayweather: The Weight is Over

In anticipation of the July 18th clash between Floyd Mayweather, Jr. and Juan Manuel Marquez, many boxing fans and sports writers have become transfixed with the number 147. Of course 147 refers to boxing’s welterweight division where Mayweather reigned as lineal champion before retiring unexpectedly in 2008. Considered the best pound-for-pound fighter when active, Mayweather returns to face #2 ranked Juan Manuel Marquez; at stake is not simply a win or loss but a claim for the pound-for-pound title and perhaps a chance to face the current best fighter in the world, Manny Pacquiao.

Though the boxing world is energized for Mayweather’s return the agreed upon weight of 143-144 has dominated the headlines. Throughout many online boxing communities which include websites, forums, and message boards, Marquez supporters have made their displeasure with the weight agreement heard. They argue that Marquez is too small for 144, he is too short, never fought above lightweight, unproven at welter, or that his power would be diminished at the higher weight.. In addition, boxing writers like Ring Magazine’s Michael Rosenthal has focused on the weight issue in the aptly titled article “Marquez's Disadvantages Are Increasing.” In the report he states that the fight will in fact be held at 147 however that could simply be a misinterpretation. His reasoning is that the fight will be held at welterweight which has a 147 lb. limit, however even if the fight were held at 143-144 it would still be considered a welterweight fight. The match was originally announced at a catchweight below 147 and that is where it likely will remain.
Amidst the concern for Marquez’s perceived disadvantages boxing media has lightly considered his overall skill and abilities. Marquez has often been described as a natural 130 lb. fighter yet he moved up to lightweight (135) and scored knockouts of former champions Joel Casamayor and Juan Diaz, two of the best fighters in the sport. In contrast, he did not stop and even struggled with Rocky Juarez, Marco Antonio Barrera, and Manny Pacquiao, fighters he fought at his so-called natural weight of 130 lbs. It can be argued, based on these two impressive wins, that Marquez actually has more power at the higher weights and will likely carry his power with him to welterweight. In general, writers and fans are shortchanging Marquez and they have readily offered weight as the culprit for his fan anticipated loss. Perhaps a simple answer would be that Mayweather is just that good. Weight advantages have never been the secret to his or Marquez’s success and it is doubtful that weight will be the determining factor in this fight. Skill, ability, heart, and determination will always be the real reasons a fighter succeeds and though both guys possess a ton of skill, ability, and determination, only Marquez has consistently shown his heart.

So why have fans, writers, and reporters raised so many objections to the weight agreement? Would it be different if Marquez was moving up to face a different opponent? What if he was fighting Manny Pacquiao at 140 or moving up to fight Oscar De La Hoya at 147? What if he was chosen to be Ricky Hatton’s final opponent or landed a fight with Miguel Cotto at 144? How would the argument change? A cynical view suggests that weight is only an issue because he is fighting Mayweather and as mentioned in my previous article there is a double standard when it comes to him. Versus any other opponent the higher weight would be acceptable because Marquez would be seen as having a better chance against a less-skilled fighter. The reality however is regardless of opponent, Marquez from this point onwards will move up in weight. There are no more big fights or better yet, no big money opportunities left at lightweight and if he wants to stay relevant he moves up. He is not alone, former lightweight champions Nate Campbell, Joan Guzman, and of course his arch rival Manny Pacquiao have already made the leap.

For a fighter, jumping divisions and competing at higher weights is a personal challenge and fans, writers, and reporters can not save them from their boxing destiny. Whether they succeed or fail is up to how well they prepare and execute the task at hand. There have been many instances were the smaller man has been victorious and even in cases where they were not it is hard to target a fight where a catchweight has come under as much fire as this match-up. Pacquiao-De La Hoya initially comes to mind but Oscar moving down to 147 was viewed as a neutralizer. In most cases however, there is not a sustained attack on the heavier fighter as there has been on Mayweather. Bernard Hopkins was not vilified for fighting middleweight opponents Winky Wright and later Kelly Pavlik at 170. No one is criticizing heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko for significantly outweighing cruiserweight David Haye. Also no media proponents seemed to have had a problem with Mayweather being outweighed by De La Hoya at 154. What the majority of these fights have in common is that it is often the smaller fighter who voluntarily moves up and issues a challenge to a larger foe; Juan Manuel Marquez is no exception.

There are many examples of overcoming the odds decorating boxing history but in the end this is why pound-for-pound champions are celebrated and distinguished above the average fighter. Marquez understands that defeating Floyd Mayweather, Jr. will make him an all-time great and fans, writers, and reporters fixed on weight should realize that you can not stop, change, or prevent boxing history; let Marquez determine his own fate. The weight is over.

Mayweather vs Marquez Tickets On Sale May 22

Floyd "Money" Mayweather has returned to the sport of boxing and will put his undefeated record on the line when he faces the dangerous and highly touted five-time world champion Juan Manuel "Dinamita" Marquez in MAYWEATHER vs. MARQUEZ "Number One/Numero Uno" Saturday, July 18 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Tickets priced at $1,000, $750, $600, $300 and $150, not including applicable service charges, go on sale Friday, May 22 at 10 a.m. PT. Ticket sales at $1,000, $750, $600 and $300 are limited to 10 per person and ticket sales at $150 are limited to two (2) per person, with a total ticket limit of 10 per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800)745-3000. Tickets also are available for purchase at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com..

A 1996 Olympic Bronze medalist for the United States, Floyd "Money" Mayweather (39-0, 25 KO's) has since gone on to strike Gold in the professional ranks, winning six world titles in five weight classes to firmly establish himself as one of the best fighters of his era. In just his 18th pro fight, Mayweather won his first world title at the age of 21 by stopping Genaro Hernandez for the WBC world super featherweight crown in 1998. The Grand Rapids, Michigan native defended that title eight times before moving up to lightweight and taking the 135-pound belt from Jose Luis Castillo in 2002, but "Money" Mayweather wasn't done yet, as he defeated Arturo Gatti and Zab Judah for the junior welterweight and welterweight world titles, respectively. Despite these impressive achievements, it wasn't until he defeated Oscar de la Hoya in May of 2007 for the world junior middleweight championship in a record-setting super-fight where the world truly got to see what Mayweather was all about. In his last fight, on December 8, 2007, Mayweather made another statement to the world when he knocked out Ricky "Hitman" Hatton in the tenth round, handing the British superstar his first professional defeat. After the bout, Mayweather - who has achieved crossover fame as a contestant on the hit show "Dancing with the Stars" and as a participant in WWE's "Wrestlemania XXIV" - announced his retirement from boxing. But he left the door open for a return if the right challenge presented itself, and on July 18th, the 32-year-old Las Vegas resident comes back to face Juan Manuel Marquez.

In an era of great Mexican fighters such as Marco Antonio Barrera and Erik Morales, Mexico City's Juan Manuel "Dinamita" Marquez (50-4-1, 37 KO's) has made it clear over the last few years that he is truly the greatest of the bunch. Long revered by boxing purists as one of the best, Marquez won 29 of his first 30 pro bouts, before finally getting a world title shot in 1999. Marquez would lose that opportunity controversially to Freddie Norwood and in response, he didn't lose for the next seven years, winning the IBF world featherweight title against Manuel Medina in 2003. In November 2003, Marquez unified the titles when he defeated Derrick "Smoke" Gainer and captured the WBA world featherweight title. His second title defense in 2004 against Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao may be his most memorable, as he rose from three first-round knockdowns to roar back and gain a draw in a fight that many observers believe he won. Marquez would lose his belt via decision to Chris John in 2006, but he returned to form almost immediately, scoring a 12-round win over Barrera in March of 2007 to win the WBC 130-pound world title. In 2008, Marquez and Pacquiao would meet again in another memorable bout however Marquez dropped a disputed 12-round split decision to the Filipino superstar. Undeterred, "Dinamita" moved up to the 135-pound weight class in September of 2008 and stunned the boxing world by handing Joel Casamayor his first knockout defeat to win the Ring Magazine world lightweight championship. It was hard to top such a victory, but in the 35-year-old Marquez' most recent fight on February 28, 2009, he did just that as he stopped former Three-Time World Champion Juan Diaz in the ninth round to add the WBO and WBA World Lightweight belts to his trophy case. On July 18th he looks to further cement his legacy with a win over Mayweather.

Mayweather vs. Marquez: "Number One/Numero Uno," is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions in association with Marquez Promotions and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate and Southwest Airlines. The 12-round bout will take place July 18th at MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada and televised live on HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9pm ET / 6pm PT.

The Mayweather vs. Marquez pay-per-view telecast, beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, has a suggested retail price of $49.95, will be produced and distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View and will be available to more than 71 million pay-per-view homes. The telecast will be available in HD-TV for those viewers who can receive HD. HBO Pay-Per-View is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For Mayweather vs. Marquez fight week updates, log on to www.hbo.com.

The MGM Grand Garden Arena is home to concerts, championship boxing and premier sporting and special events. The Arena offers comfortable seating for as many as 16,800 with excellent sightlines and state-of-the-art acoustics, lighting and sound. Prominent events to date have included world championship fights between Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson as well as Oscar de la Hoya vs. Bernard Hopkins and George Foreman vs. Michael Moorer; and concerts by The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney, Bette Midler, Gloria Estefan, Janet Jackson, Phil Collins, Billy Joel, Backstreet Boys, 'N Sync, Sting, Jimmy Buffett and the Barbra Streisand Millennium Concert. The MGM Grand Garden Arena is also home to the annual FOX Billboard Music Awards, the annual Andre Agassi Grand Slam for Children Benefit and the Academy of Country Music Awards (ACMA).

Mayweather-Marquez is ON

On July 18, Floyd “Mainstream Money” Mayweather and Juan Manuel Marquez meet on a PPV card billed as “Number One/Numero Uno” at MGM Grand in Las Vegas. The bout was officially announced today. “Credentials don’t lie and the record speaks for itself,” said Mayweather. “When it comes to July 18, I don’t need to tell you what I’m going to do. A small man will never retire me. I’m here to stay. I’m here to fight and reclaim what’s mine. I’m the king and nobody has taken my throne. Tonight, any man can win. Its a gamble. But when you are betting on Floyd, that’s for sure money. Keep your money under your mattress until July 18.” Marquez countered, “If I want to be the best fighter in the world and I need to beat the best. The best fighter is Floyd Mayweather. This fight is for who is the #1 fighter in the world.” Promoter Oscar de la Hoya commented “Can we believe that now the bigger man is always going to win? When I fought Floyd it was competitive. When I fought Manny he stopped me. When Juan fought Manny - I don’t care what they say - Juan beat him. So I believe Juan can beat Mayweather. Marquez can never be counted out.” Mayweather manager Leonard Ellerbe proclaimed “The king is back! Floyd has truly transcended the sport. Wherever he goes - the malls, the grocery stores, even the strip clubs - they all ask ‘when is Floyd coming back?.’”