Johnny Tapia KOed!

On a sleepy Friday night, at the Avalon Ballroom in Chicago, a momentous occasion took place in the boxing world. Unheralded Featherweight Sandro Marcos (25-13-2, 21 KO's) stopped former world champion Johnny (55-5-2, 28 KO's) Tapia, with a thunderous left hook to the liver in Round Two. The punch left the former champ on all fours gasping for air and grimacing in pain. Before the count was even over, Johnny asked the referee to take his mouthpiece out. He was counted out for the first time in his career at 2:59 of the second round.

As one of boxing’s most exciting fighters of his era, Johnny (Mi Vida Loca) Tapia, is a four time World Champion, having won the WBO and the IBF Super Flyweight World Championships, and the WBA and WBO Bantamweight World Championships.

But his personal story is tumultuous saga that has earned him the tag line, “Mi Vida Loca” (my crazy life) that he carries emblazoned on his trunks. Despite his battle with drugs, three overdoses that left him clinically dead, jail time, being banned from the sport of boxing for three years, severe depression and a suicide attempt, boxing fans continue to love and support Johnny.

The reason fans love Johnny Tapia is because he always gives 100% in the ring. Despite the tumult in his life, Johnny Tapia is one of the most honest fighters in the business. “Honest” meaning Johnny gives himself completely in his effort to win. A controlled furry that is both courteous to his opponents, and fair-minded.

At the ripe age of 38, and a second round stoppage to an unheralded opponent, this may be the end of Johnny Tapia’s Hall of Fame career.

--The Mighty Moe

Barerra vs. Peden

It would be a safe bet to put your money on Marco Antonio Barrera ... not that Peden isn't a tough/game warrior, but the Mighty-Moe simply believes that Peden just doesn't have the , illusiveness, versatility, or the pressure to beat Barrera.

Let's look at Barrera's losses: Two losses to Junior Jones, who is a slick boxer that out-boxed and kept Barrera on the outside. One loss to Erik Morales, who is a terrific pressure fighter with tremendous power combined with versatility that allows him to punch from odd angles. Manny Pacquiao, who's left handed stance, blazing speed, punching power and pressure simply overwhelmed Barrera. Peden, on the other hand, can't be compared to any of these fighters.

Peden is not only a hard worker but he stays in shape, has a lot of stamina, and is also very durable. It will take a lot of punishment for Barrera to take Peden out.

Barrera doesn't have blazing handspeed, but he is one of the sports best counterpunchers. I expect Barrera to counter Peden and catch him coming in ... look for a late round stoppage by the referee or Peden's corner. There's no quitting in Peden, so the ref had better keep an eye on him.

This should be an entertaining bout, with Peden -- at times -- giving Barrera more than he can handle.

--The Mighty-Moe

Morales vs. Raheem (recap)

What the heck was team Morales thinking when they picked former Olympian Zahir Raheem as a tune up fight. Zahir Raheem is one of the slickest boxers in the sport, he's one of the biggest fighters Morales has ever faced, and he can take a punch. All around, it doesn't read like a tune up fight.

The two fights Morales has lost were to Marco Antonio Barrera ... when the smaller, slower, Mexican fighter out-boxed Morales. So, what's the solution by team Morales ... get him in there with a bigger, slicker, faster fighter. Go figure.

I lift my frothy mug to Raheem! He's gotta lotta class, he's a heluva fighter, and I want to see more of him. Come to think of it, I'd like to see him fight Joel Cassamayor next.

--The Mighty-Moe

Judah vs. Hatton

Now there's a fight I want to see. Heck, I'd even PPV that one. It's not a done deal, but 4.1 million is sitting on a table somewhere for the "Hitman" Hatton.

It's an interesting fight, Hatton has been knocked down by lesser, smaller punchers, and Judah can't handle even smaller pressure fighters. Right now, I think it's Hatton's fight!

--The Might Moe

The Mighty Moe is making a comeback ...

Things got really busy at the Mighty-Moe household, but I have returned. I wanted to post my pre-fight thoughts on the Hopkins vs. Taylor fight, but was unable because I simply ran out of time. After the horrendous decision, I just didn't feel like it! Whadda load of crap! Now we have a newly crowned undisputed middleweight champion what was slapped around the ring, nearly knocked off his feet on two occasions ... and won't grant the former champ a rematch right away because he's waiting for Hopkins to age some more? Oh, say it isn't so!

Is this what we can expect from a Jermain Taylor reign? Is he going to wait for Eastman, Ouma, Wright, Sturm, Echols and Ikeke to get old too?

--The Mighty Moe

Recap: Tarver vs. Johnson II

In a tremendous battle between light heavyweights, Antonio Tarver (23-3, 18 KOs) avenged his December loss to Glen Johnson (40-10-2, 28 KOs) with a unanimous 12 round decision on Saturday night in Memphis, Tennessee. This now sets Tarver atop the list for the best fighter at 175 pounds.

Both Tarver and Johnson are the most competitive elite light heavyweights in quite some time, bringing excitement back into their division. And the kicker is, they did it without a major title on the line!

For years, Roy Jones allowed the alphabet soup boxing organizations to dictate the match-ups … and the interest in light heavyweight division dried up. This created match-ups where Roy Jones would defend his title against mediocre competition. Now, with Tarver and Johnson, we’ve got two fighters willing to fight the best … and the division is electric with excitement once again!

This fight was not only good for the light heavyweight division … it was good for boxing. In a show of good sportsmanship both men fought a clean fight and respected each other with their words after the fight. These men are a class act.

With the score now: Tarver 1 and Johnson 1. This rivalry begs for a trilogy.

--The Mighty-Moe

Antonio Tarver vs. Glen Johnson II

When these two fighters meet tonight in Memphis, Tennessee, it will be a rematch of their December 2004 split decision battle ... a battle in which Glen Johnson (42-9-2, 28 KOs) narrowly defeated Antonio Tarver (22-3, 18 KOs). No world championship belt is at stake since both fighters had to relinquish their title belts in order to duke it out last December for the bragging rights of being called the "top dog" in the division.

The odds? They’re 8-5 favorite for the Magic-Man Antonio Tarver. Why? Because most everyone watching the fight thought Tarver won the fight … including the Mighty-Moe. Perhaps it was Johnson’s gutsy effort in coming forward the entire fight that swayed the judges, or Johnson’s hard-luck underdog status that created the impression he was taking the fight away from Tarver … either way it was the wrong call, but not a bad one. Johnson won the judges nod and the hearts of many fans with his gritty determination. However, I think Tarver technically won that fight … and I think he’ll do it again.

Here are the punch stats: In their first fight Tarver threw 853 punches and landed 296. Johnson, on the other hand, threw 796 punches and landed 217. Tarver was busier, landed more punches, and landed the harder shots, landing 220 power punches to Johnson’s 140. Hand’s down, it should have been a victory for Tarver.

Tarver is the bigger of the two men, with Johnson having fought most of his fights as a middleweight. Tarver also has the height and reach advantage … and fights like a tall fighter. Surprisingly, Antonio Tarver is also quicker than Glen Johnson. If Tarver times his punches right, he can catch Johnson reaching in and tag him. Tarver should tie Johnson up when they are in close and avoid laying on the ropes.

As in their first fight, Johnson is going to have to walk through a firestorm to get inside Tarver’s long arms. Johnson is not going to be able to out-box the more versatile Tarver or out-jab him, so he’s going to have to get inside and stay inside … without letting Tarver tie him up. If there is one category where Johnson has Tarver beat, it is in the guts department. If Johnson can lure Tarver into a battle of guts, he can keep Tarver pinned on the ropes and beat him down with his determination.

I look for this fight to go the distance once again, this time with Tarver securing a unanimous decision. I expect a late rally by Johnson. However, this might create target opportunities for Tarver to get a TKO over Johnson.

--The Mighty Moe

The Ballad of Iron Mike

The once mighty "Iron" Mike Tyson has finally been tossed into his personal scrap pile of broken dreams and unfulfilled destinies. The roar of the crowd that once jumped to their feet, now reduced to a murmur of whispers as his battered shadow exits the sport once again. This time may be the last.

Last night, a 38-year-old Mike Tyson would fail to come out for the seventh round in a bout against journeyman Kevin McBride (now 33-4-1 with 28 KO's). In front of 15,472 stunned fans in Washington, DC, Mike Tyson would quit on his stool after a foul ridden effort in which two points were ultimately deducted for an intentional head butt.

For 15 years, Mike Tyson would wander in exile from the undisputed heavyweight championship he allowed to slip from his fingers, never to be his again. Once the most feared man in boxing; the greatest threat in the heavyweight division became even a greater threat to himself. The rage that consumed his opponents, finally consumed him. It was once said, the only man that can beat Tyson is Tyson. Make no mistake about it; Tyson scored a sensational KO of himself.

Perhaps one of the most gifted heavyweight fighters to ever lace up a pair of gloves since Joe Louis, a student and historian of the sport, and last protégé of the late Cus D’Amato, Mike Tyson has successfully squandered it all. After pummeling himself into humility, Mike Tyson (50-6, 2NC, 44 KOs) bids his adieu.

“I don’t have the guts to stay in this sport anymore. I do not want to disrespect the sport I love.” –Mike Gerard Tyson

--The Mighty Moe

Hatton Wins, Tszyu Quits in 11th Round

Ricky Hatton (39-0, 29 KOs) wins the IBF junior welterweight championship with an 11th round TKO upset victory over the 4/1 odds favorite Kostya Tszyu (31-2, 25 KOs).

Ricky Hatton has silenced all doubt with this sensational stoppage of one of the sports pound-per-pound best fighters … and to the delight of his fans he did it in Manchester England in front of a sold out arena of 22,000.

From the opening bell, Hatton was able to manhandle and smother Tszyu by slipping his jab and getting inside Tszyu’s defense. With intensity reminiscent of Roberto Duran’s victory over Sugar Ray Leonard 25 years ago, Hatton was able to take control of the fight with relentless pressure, keeping the champion Tszyu pinned on the ropes.

Hatton’s speed in slipping Tszyu punches and the smothering strategy prevented Tszyu from getting a full extension on his punches. This was the perfect fight strategy for the 26 year old, younger, more energetic Hatton. When Tszyu did manage to land punches of his own, they were mostly glancing blows. Also, the few punches that did find their target didn’t land with authority because Tszyu was moving backwards as he was punching, nullifying his own power.

The pace and intensity of the fight was too much for the 35 year old champion and Hatton was able to wear Tszyu down with his wrestling and brawling. There was a lot of roughhouse tactics by both fighters: holding and hitting, punching behind the head, elbows, and knockdowns from low-blows for both fighters.

In the end, Kostya Tszyu wouldn’t come out for the final round. This was surprising since Hatton never buckled Tszyu’s knees, or appeared to have hurt him at any particular moment. It was just an accumulation of punches, being behind in the fight, and fatigue that convinced Tszyu to admit he had had enough.

Tszyu said he wasn’t sure if he would retire after this bout, and wouldn’t say if he would be interested in a rematch. Hatton, on the other hand, said he would grant Tszyu a rematch.

Make no mistake about it … Ricky Hatton took the title away from Kostya Tszyu. There is a new lion at 140 pounds.

--The Mighty Moe

Kostya Tszyu vs. Ricky (Hitman) Hatton

The IBF welterweight champion Kostya Tszyu (31-1, 25 KOs) vs. Ricky Hatton (38-0, 28 KOs) is a sensational match up. It would be worth the PPV, but it's not a PPV event! This fight will be featured on Showtime.

Hatton has shown devastating punching power and has a swarming style reminiscent of a younger version of the champion Tszyu. But, despite Ricky Hatton being the younger of the two, and having the home court advantage in front of 18,000 fans in the Men Arena, I'm going to have to pick the champion Tszyu to beat the young lion in Manchester England on Saturday June 4th, 9 pm ET/PT.

If Hatton wants to win, he's going to have to control his aggression. If he comes in too reckless, Tszyu will catch him coming in and hurt him. If Hatton waits too long to punch, he'll give Tszyu the necessary time to pick him apart.

It isn't likely that Hatton will out-box Tszyu. I believe Hatton is going to have to man-handle and swarm Tszyu, without being reckless. It's not impossible, but I think it might be too much to ask from the young brawler.

Tszyu on the other hand, will have to be careful in disarming the Hatton. He cannot let Ricky Hatton, or the Manchester crowd, into this fight. For starters, Kostya Tszyu does not want to get caught against the ropes where Hatton can unleash his bombs.

Ricky Hatton was dropped by Eamon Magee when he was caught behind the ear with a stiff left hook as Hatton charged in, look for Tszyu to do the same. Also, look for Tszyu to fire the straight right hand over the top. Both fighters are very good at getting angles on their opponents in order to land their trademark body punches. To do this, they will have to out-maneuver their opponent with footwork. This should be the most intriguing aspect of this match-up.

--The Mighty Moe

Extra: TRINIDAD RETIRES!

The brave Felix Trinidad retires … but blamed his dad.

Upon their arrival this Sunday in San Juan, Puerto Rico, "Papa" Trinidad made the announcement that he is retiring from working in boxing. Which was followed by Felix “Tito” Trinidad making his announcement, if his dad isn’t going to work his corner, he will retire too. What a cowardly thing! Talk tough, then run away from the sport and blame dad.

After the Wright fight, Trinidad said he had no plans to retire. Foolish me … I took him at his word. I thought perhaps he really did want to back up all that tough talk and fight … but I was duped. And here I was thinking about the fighters Felix Trinidad could still face.

If Felix Trinidad couldn’t beat a light-punching 154 pounder like “Winky” Wright, how could he step down in weight and convincingly avoid a rematch with de la Hoya?

Nope, Felix Trinidad is still running.

--The Mighty Moe

Recap: Trinidad vs. Wright

Ronald “Winky” Wright (49-3, 25 KOs) easily defeats Felix “Tito” Trinidad (42-2, 35 KOs) by pitching a near shutout against the Puerto Rican slugger. What’s even more surprising is that “Winky” Wright got the decision!

After learning that Jerry Roth, Duane Ford and Dave Moretti would score the bout, I was less suspicious about a dubious outcome. I’m glad the decision was a fair one.

Winky out-boxed Trinidad, but lacked the punching power to hurt Trinidad in any round or stop him. So, what’s next for Trinidad? I just can’t see Felix Trinidad wanting to fight a rematch against “Winky” Wright. If last night’s bout wasn’t even remotely close, where is the intrigue for fight fans? There needs to be a reason for a rematch … a sense of controversy or competitiveness, but this fight had neither. And, if Trinidad can’t get past the light punching Wright, why would anyone expect him to beat Hopkins? No, I think Trinidad needs to move down to 154 pounds and join the super welterweights.

I still think there are some entertaining bouts for Trinidad: Daniel Santos, Kassim Ouma, Travis Simms or Javier Castillejo for one of the many super welterweight titles, a rematch with the competitive Fernando Vargas, or a bout with Vernon Forrest. Tito Trinidad could also look towards even smaller men at 147: Antonio Margarito, Oscar de la Hoya and Shane Mosley at a catch-weight.

--The Mighty Moe

Winky Wright vs. Felix Trinidad

Pay-per-view? No thanks! I think I'll pass on this one. I wouldn't mind seeing this fight for free, but I don't want to shell out a nickel to see this one. Trinidad is a 9-5 favorite going into this bout.

I guess I still haven't forgiven Felix "Tito" Trinidad for the Oscar de la Hoya fight. I can't blame him for the terrible judges decision that robbed de la Hoya and awarded him the fight, but I am bothered that since then Tito has been pretending that he actually won. It's not just Tito's trash-talking and bragging that bothers me, it's the fact he kept bragging all the while he was running from de la Hoya to the junior middleweight division, then to middleweight, and then into retirement without giving Oscar a rematch.

That's not how a champion acts, and surely it's not the way someone acts when they believe they really won the fight. Oscar de la Hoya may have run from Trinidad for the last three rounds, but Trinidad has been running from de la Hoya for six years.

Since his whoopin' at the hands of Bernard Hopkins, the "great" Felix Trinidad has fought Hassine Cherifi, a 37 year-old fighter with 11 losses who is currently ranked 76 in the world, and Ricardo Mayorga, the smaller and wreckless welterweight making his middleweight debut. So much for competitive bouts!

Now, Felix Trinidad will fight Ronald "Winky" Wright. Why Wright you might ask? Because it's a low risk fight for Trinidad. Winky Wright didn't have the punching at 154 pounds, and he certainly isn't going to suddenly develop punching power as he steps into the middleweight division. And, Wright has a history of fading late in his fights.

There is no likelihood that Wright will KO Trinidad; he simply doesn't have the punching power. Then, there's the Don King factor. If Winky Wright does manage to out-box Trinidad over the distance of the fight, which is entirely possible, the question still remains, will Ronald "Winky" Wright get a fair decision? Just ask Oscar de la Hoya.

--The Mighty Moe

Recap: Corrales vs. Castillo

In a fight that can best described as the 2005 fight of the year, and arguably perhaps the most dramatic lightweight title fight ever … Diego Corrales defeated Mexican Jose Luis Castillo for Castillo’s WBC lightweight title in the tenth round with a TKO stoppage.

Fighting pain as much as fatigue, Diego Chico Corrales did the impossible. After being battered to the canvas twice by the heavy handed Mexican, Corrales slowly peeled his swollen and blood spattered body off the canvas to beat the count. In an ending that could only be described as pure Hollywood, Corrales somehow managed to find the strength and a burst of energy to corner the champion into the ropes, and let go a barrage of unanswered power punches that prompted referee Tony Weeks to put a halt to the action at 2:06 seconds of the tenth round. Bringing himself back from the oblivion of unconsciousness, Diego Corrales KOed a champion that had never been knocked down in 59 fights!

After both knockdowns, Corrales summoned the wherewithal to spit out his mouthpiece and buy some precious seconds to regain his composure. This cost him a point deduction, but after the two knock downs (a round that would have been scored 10-6 for Castillo), Corrales must have known that if the fight went to the judges he would most likely loose the fight. With his eye closing fast, it was an all-or-nothing gamble that paid off in silver dollars for Corrales! He had to buy time to compose himself, and he had to stop Castillo.

It’s unfortunate that referee Tony Weeks was forced to stop the fight when he did, but it was the right call. After Corrales’ brutal assault, Castillo’s hands dropped to his waist, his body sagged into the ropes and his eyes rolled up into his head. When Castillo stopped defending himself, Weeks had no other choice other than to stop the fight.

Fatigue and a loss of focus allowed Corrales to catch Castillo with his back against the ropes. When Corrales connected with his combinations, there was no place for Castillo to fall. Had Corrales connected his combinations in the middle of the ring … Castillo no doubt would have fallen … but he most likely would have been given an eight count instead of having the fight stopped. It was a tough break for Castillo… but not for fans.

Diego Corrales vs. Jose Luis Castillo will go down as one of the very best lightweight championship bouts in the history of boxing.

--The Mighty Moe

Recap: Toney vs. Ruiz

On Saturday night (April 30, 2005), a very fat James Lights-Out Toney battered, bruised and out-hustled WBA heavyweight champion John Ruiz to win by unanimous decision, 116-111, 116-111 and 115-112. James blamed his 233 pounds on his only having four and a half weeks to train.

Even with the extra pounds, Toney (69-4-2 with 43 KOs) has now entered the history books, joining Bob Fitzsimmons and Roy Jones Jr., as the only three men to have won the middleweight title and the heavyweight title (albeit a portion of the heavyweight title).

Ruiz, by contrast, has earned the distinction of becoming the only heavyweight to have lost his title twice to former middleweight champions.

Toney used beautiful counterpunching all night to slip Ruiz’s right hand and fire a right hand in return, bouncing the cleaner shots off the champion’s temple. A wicked body assault by Toney also left marks on Ruiz’s ribcage. The effects of Toney’s body shots prevented Ruiz from staging a late round rally. In the end, Toney appeared to be the fresher of the two.

In the seventh round Toney was credited with a knock-down when he landed a one-two combination. Upon viewing the replay, it was clear Toney stepped on Ruiz’s foot causing him to lose his balance.

What’s next for Toney? He said he’ll fight “anyone at anytime,” but the recognized heavyweight champion is Vitali Klitschko. James Toney will have to beat Vitali if he wants to be recognized as the legitimate heavyweight champion … and one of only two former middleweight champions to have won the legitimate heavyweight title.

--The Mighty Moe

Toney fights for Heavyweight Title

On April 30, James Lights-Out Toney (68-4-2, 43) will challenge John Ruiz (4-5-1, 28) for the WBA Heavyweight Championship of the world at the sacred alter of pugilism, “the Garden” (Madison Square Garden) … and the Mighty Moe will be glued to the television.

This will be the second time Big John Ruiz will have to defend his title against a former middleweight champion, having dropped a decision to Roy Jones in 2003. But let’s face it; fans won’t be tuning in to see Ruiz, they’ll be tuning in to see the brash and loquacious James Toney.

When James Toney won the middleweight title with his 11th round destruction of Michael Nunn, fans understood there was something special about Toney. His list of victories looked like a list of who’s who in the middleweight division. But all that started to fall apart for the then pound-per-pound king as Toney kept having trouble making weight, and culminated in to consecutive losses.

Fans were frustrated and angry as they watched an out of shape James Toney drop another two more losses. Even his lack luster victories seemed to confirm in everyone’s opinion, it was all over for Toney. It seemed as though James Toney had eaten his way out of the greatness that most fans believed he was destined to achieve.

A couple years back James started to take his training serious, and a showdown was set for Vassiliy Jirov’s IBF Cruiserweight title. Toney was sensational, he fought the undefeated champion in a toe-to-toe battle that would earn him a unanimous decision … and the honor of knocking the champion off his feet in the last and final round.

With the momentum set, James turned his attention towards the heavyweight division and called out one its greats, Evander Holyfield. With his 9th round TKO destruction over the “Real Deal,” James Toney has made believers out of the harshest of skeptics.

Now the table has been set once again … and I’m a believer. As long as James Lights-Out Toney stays motivated, I think he is one of the most formidable fighters in the game today. Tough and durable, his boxing skills are recognized by fight fans as old-school.

I believe Toney will win a unanimous decision over a gutsy performance by John Ruiz.

--The Mighty Moe

Antonio Margarito vs. Kermit Cintron

On April 23, WBO Welterweight champion Antonio Margarito (31-4, 22 KOs) will face unbeaten WBO-Interim Welterweight Champion Kermit Cintron (24-0, 22 KOs) for the WBO 147 pound title.

This should be a very entertaining bout because of the explosive punching power and offensive styles both fighters possess. Having said that, I’m going to pick Mexican Antonio Margarito over the hard punching, KO sensation, Kermit Cintron, for a couple reasons.

Margarito recently moved up to 154 pounds and challenged WBO champion Daniel Santos. Unfortunately, the fight was stopped because of a cut caused by a clash of heads. It was a split decision victory for Santos, but not a convincing victory for the 154-pound champion. Santos stood his ground during the early part of the fight against the smaller challenger, but was soon convinced Margarito was the stronger of the two. Daniel Santos changed tactics and used his boxing skills in order to squeeze out this marginal victory.

In this loss, Margarito proved once again that he is a solid puncher with the gritty determination and strength to out-gun even larger opponents … but he can be out-boxed.

By contrast, Cintron won his last fight against Teddy Reid, but showed weaknesses in his style that might play into the hands of Margarito. Cintron started that fight with hard punches that seemed to indicate he would make quick work of Teddy Reid. However, Reid proved to be more resilient and began landing big punches of his own through Cintron’s poor defense. Kermit Cintron’s inexperience started to show, and seemed bewildered and tentative when Reid started to rally with his counterpunching. The fight seemed to sea-saw back and forth, despite Cintron winning most of the rounds. Ultimately, Cintron stopped Reid in the eighth round with a series of explosive punches.

It was a tremendous victory for Cintron, and perhaps the toughest test of his young career. At the end of the fight, Cintron became emotional during the interview. It was clear, Kermit Cintron was unprepared for that level of performance from an opponent and the stress had taken its toll. In victory, Cintron proved he is a world-class fighter, but also has the insecurity and inexperience of a young fighter.

I am a fan of Cintron, but I think fighting the tough veteran Margarito may be too-much-too-soon for this young prospect. This is a terrific match-up. I look for Antonio Margarito to win a hard fought late round stoppage over a bewildered Kermit Cintron.

--The Mighty Moe

This Las Vegas event will be an ESPN PPV, along with:
Juan Diaz vs. Ebo Elder (WBA 135),
Shane Mosley vs. David Estrada (147)
Jameel McCline vs. Calvin Brock (Hvy).

The Contender … Good Or Bad For Boxing?

I’m going to come right out and say it. I don’t like it. The problem with The Contender reality show is that it’s a reality show!

Fight fans know that the sport of boxing is already a reality show. There is no righteousness prevailing over evil, social justice or political correctness, it is simply as cold and as real as reality gets. Unfortunately, the producers believe that watching the reality of boxing isn’t as interesting as the feigned social drama that pans in front of the camera.

In fairness, I just don’t like reality shows.

For me, I’m already watching “The Contender” just by being a boxing fan. I watch young fighters coming into the sport become contenders, and then I follow their careers through to their title shot (and so on). The difference is I don’t have to watch 55 minutes of weeping and backbiting, just to watch five minutes of edited fighting.

Hey, and by the way, what’s with the team activity games that have nothing to do with boxing training? Boxing isn’t a team sport, and loading medicine balls on the back of a pick-up truck isn’t boxing training!

Maybe this show will introduce mainstream audiences to the sweet science. Unfortunately, this show ranked dead last in its timeslot in its first week. Not even big names like Sylvester Stallone or Sugar Ray Leonard could pull audiences in.

--The Mighty Moe

Castillo vs. Corrales

On May 7, lightweight champions Diego “Chico” Corrales and Jose Luis Castillo will meet each other in the ring for a WBO /WBC unification battle that will pit the two best lightweights against each other.

After disposing of unbeaten champion Acelino Frietas, and highy regarded Joel Casamayor, Diego Corrales has set himself as the man to beat in the lightweight division. A devastatingly hard puncher, Corrales has the power to neutralize any fighter at any given moment -- with either hand. Combined with stamina, discipline and heart, Diego Corrales is one of the most effective pressure fighters in the game today.

With an equally impressive record, the highly regarded WBC champion Jose Luis Castillo has over 50 fights and nearly as many KOs. This rugged Mexican has also set himself at the top of the division as a boxer/puncher after stopping Julio Diaz in his last fight, beating Joel Casamayor and Juan Lazcano.

By comparison, both fighters have beaten Joel Casamayor, but both also lost to Floyd Mayweather. Corrales lost by TKO, and Castillo dropped a controversial split decision in his first fight with Mayweather, and a unanimous decision in their second fight. Now that Mayweather has moved up in weight, the table has been set for this elimination bout between Castillo and Corrales.

As a former sparring partner for the great Julio Caesar Chavez, Jose Luis Castillo has never been taken off his feet. However, as the hardest puncher in the division, Diego Corrales would like to put that feather in his cap.

Corrales’ weakness is that he has a stand-up style and lacks lateral movement. This is going to make Corrales easy for Castillo to find him. Corrales has been dropped by Mayweather and Casamayor; both of who are excellent boxers, but neither punch as hard as Castillo.

To sum it up, Diego Chico Corrales has the bigger punch, but Castillo has the better chin.

In order to win, Castillo will have to avoid standing in front of Corrales. He has to be either right on top of Corrales backing him up, or outside Corrales’ reach. If he gets caught within range, Corrales will certainly bust him up.

This sensational match-up looks to be a lightweight version of Hearns vs. Hagler. I’m going to pick Mexican WBC champion Jose Luis Castillo over Diego “Chico” Corrales.

--The Mighty Moe

“Sugar” Shane Mosley on PPV

On April 23, “Sugar” Shane Mosley will be fighting David Estrada on the undercard of an ESPN PPV televised Main Events-promoted event.

Who the heck is David Estrada, and why are fans being subjected to another tomato-can for Shane Mosley?

Just a few years ago, right after his first victory over Oscar de la Hoya, Sugar Shane Mosley was being heralded as the best fighter pound-per-pound. This was ridiculous … not because Shane Mosley isn’t talented, but rather because beating a great fighter doesn’t make him a great fighter.

The first time I saw Mosley fight I was impressed with his lighting fast power punches … he reminded me of a 135 pound version of Roy Jones. I thought to myself, this guy undoubtedly would be a champion. Perhaps even a great champion worthy of the name “Sugar.”

But, as Mosley’s career unfolded, I realized that he wouldn’t step up to the plate and fight the top-notch fighters in his division. Before he fought Oscar de la Hoya, the only other top names were an aging former featherweight Jesse James Leija, the 5’-2” John Brown, the light-punching Willfredo Rivera, and journeyman Willy Wise.

After the de la Hoya fight, fans were subjected to hand picked opponents like Antonio Diaz, Shannon Taylor, and Adrian Stone. “Who?” you might ask? My sentiments exactly!

After padding his record with these low risk fighters, Shane started to believe in his own invincibility and called out (relatively untested) Vernon Forrest. Forrest not only beat Shane, he dominated him and handed Mosley his first defeat.

The rematch ended up being a replay of their first fight, and Mosley showed boxing fans that he wasn’t the type of fighter that would take the necessary chances to make “big things happen” when he needed to. Avoiding Forrest’s big punches, Mosley was content to be a game loser.

The rematch with Oscar was a one-sided event with Oscar dominating Shane in all punching categories: jabs, punches-landed and power-punches. When the fight was over, Oscar had landed over 100 more total punches than Shane Mosley … outlanding him in every round except one … but somehow Shane Mosley walked away with the biggest gift of his career and was awarded a 12 round decision by the judges. Fans know Shane didn’t win this fight.

In Mosley’s two fights with the light-punching, but very slick southpaw Ronald “Winky” Wright, Shane Mosley proved once again that he wasn’t willing to take the chances to make “big things happen,” and ended up dropping both decisions to Wright back to back.

After dropping five of his last six fights against top fighters, and dropping back down to 147 pounds, fans are going to be presented with another unknown opponent for Mosley in David Estrada. And to add insult to injury, we’ll have to pay for it.

No thanks.

--The Mighty Moe

Juan Diaz vs. Ebo Elder

On April 23, fans will be treated to another exciting title fight. Because of the non-stop punching styles of both fighters, this one is guaranteed to entertain.

WBA champion Juan “Baby Bull” Diaz will be making his third defense of his title against the very tough Ebo Elder. Neither fighter has that one-punch-KO-power, but both are strong fighters that put their punches together in combinations.

Because Elder is a southpaw and Diaz fights in the orthodox stance, there may be a lot of head colliding. Since Elder tends to square himself up … and Diaz tucks himself in the pocket … I think Ebo Elder may end up getting the worst of it. This one is going to be bloody.

I would have to give the edge to the Champion Juan Diaz for being the harder puncher of the two, especially in terms of a body attack. I also think his defensive skills are a little better than Elder.

Ebo Elder is also coming off of a very tough fight against Courtney Burton, this was a huge upset against the very talented Courtney Burton that granted Ebo this title shot. In that fight, Ebo took as many punches as well as he received. Personally, I think it’s a little too soon to put him in with another volume puncher like Juan Diaz.

I would have to pick Diaz with an ugly late round TKO stoppage of Elder. (The ref better stay on top of this one.)

--The Mighty Moe

Jorge Arce KOs Hussein

The brutal battle between 112 pound Flyweights, Jorge “Travieso” Arce (39-3-1, 29 KOs) vs. Hussein Hussein (26-2, 20 KOs), will no doubt be another fight-of-the-year candidate. To the fans delight, this scheduled 12 rounder provided nonstop action from the opening bell.

For a moment it seemed like Arce would make quick work of Hussein in the opening minutes of round one, but with the help of referee Vic Draculich, Hussein managed to compose himself and get back in the fight.

In the fifth round, it was high drama as Hussein battled back and opened a nasty gash across Jorge Arce nose. But, the gritty Arce only seemed to become energized by the sight of his own blood. In a whirlwind of punches and relentless pressure, it was becoming evident that Jorge Arce was getting the better of Hussein.

Arce billed himself as Mexico’s favorite fighter, and at 2:07 minutes of the tenth round … when the hard punching, and game Hussein wilted under a barrage of vicious punches … Arce introduced American audiences to what Mexican audiences already know: Jorge Arce is a fan favorite!

Despite a heavy loss of blood, the iron jawed Arce found the energy to out-perform Hussein down the stretch. Hussein, to his credit beat the count, but had the fight halted by the referee when his trainer Jeff Fenech jumped into the ring and stopped the fight.

Punching with the same intensity of a young Roberto Duran, and with an equal amount of durability, Jorge “Travieso” Arce is a fighter to keep an eye on.

--The Mighty Moe

Recap: Pacquiao vs. Morales Fight

Fans were treated to a spectacular fight; the collision course for these two fighters in the prime of their careers was everything fans expected it to be.

Erik Morales (48-2, 34 KOs) won by unanimous decision 113-115 on all three score cards in a fair assessment of the fight. A great fight, with a good decision to make it all sweeter. And, fans of Manny Pacquiao (39-3-2, 30 KOs) could only be disappointed with the loss, but not their fighter’s performance. Especially in the final round when Manny Pacquiao had Erik Morales reeling in several exchanges and won the round on all three judges scorecards.

I think this fight will be a candidate for fight of the year.

Morales fought a disciplined fight, and showed boxing fans that he is not only a tremendous fighter, but also a tremendous boxer as well. To some extent, I think it was a turning point in the career for the 28 year old Morales. Having beaten the man who beat his arch nemesis Marco Antonio Barerra, Erik was able to define his own legacy. Also, by out-boxing Pacquiao, Morales has shown that he has the skills to continue boxing at the top of his game for many years to come.

At age 26, Manny Pacquiao demonstrated last Saturday that there is no “quit” in this 130 pound punching machine, and put to rest any questions about the durability of his chin. Let me just come out and say it, Manny Pacquiao can take a punch.

The obvious question is, when will we be treated to a rematch? Apparently, it is already being discussed.

--The Mighty Moe

Manny Pacquiao vs. Erik Morales

On March 19, 2004, the highly anticipated fight between Manny Pacquiao and Erik Morales is a fan’s fight! The two will match up at the 130 pound limit, with no title on the line.

Let’s compare the two fighters!

Manny Pacquiao, a Philippine native, is a former two-time world champion … and regarded as one of the hardest punchers in his weight class. Pacquiao has a record of 39 victories, 2 losses, one draw and 31 victories by way of KO.

The Mexican born Erik Morales, has a record of 47 victories, 2 losses, and 34 KOs. Erik is only the second Mexican champion to have won three world titles in three separate weight divisions, and regarded as one of the best fighters in the world.

But, just having good fight records isn’t enough to make a great fight. Styles make great fights, and both Pacquiao and Morales have crowd-pleasing styles.

So, who has the advantage?

Styles:
Manny Pacquiao is a powerful southpaw with a devastating straight left hand. He is most dangerous when he’s hurt. Erik Morales is a powerful orthodox fighter, and he too is most dangerous when he’s hurt. Despite being the taller of the two fighters, Erik Morales doesn’t fight like a tall fighter, and this may prove to be a mistake for Morales. Erik Morales can’t afford to get lured into a slugfest with Pacquiao. In previous fights, Erik has proven he will abandon his jab and give up his height to score his punches.
Advantage: Pacquiao

Circumstances:
Manny Pacquiao is moving up in weight to take this fight. Typically, the bigger fighter is able to punch harder and is used to heavier punches.
Advantage: Morales

Speed:
Despite moving up in weight, Manny’s trainer Freddy Roach says Pacquiao hasn’t lost any of his speed. This is good because Morales looked slow and lethargic in his last fight.
Advantage: Pacquiao

Chin:
Manny Pacquiao is a physically strong fighter, but both of his losses have come by way of knockout in the third round. This means that Pacquiao’s chin is suspect in the early rounds. By contrast, Erik Morales has never been stopped.
Advantage: Morales

Punching Power:
Both fighters have a knockout percentage of 69%, however I would give the advantage to Pacquaio because he will be shooting his power punch from the southpaw stance. For Morales, Manny’s punches will be coming from an angle he’s not accustomed to. If Morales hopes to win, he must stay disciplined and keep moving to Pacquiao’s right in order to avoid Manny’s big left hand.
Advantage: Pacquiao

Stamina:
Both fighters have great training, and both come prepared to fight the full 12 rounds.
Advantage: Even

Experience:
Erik Morales has fought the better opposition, but both fighters have fought the highly regarded Marco Antonio Barrera. The difference is that Pacquiao was able to stop Barrera in their first and only meeting, and Morales was never able to stop Barrera in three of their 12 round fights … and lost two of their three matches.
Advantage: Pacquiao

Versatility:
Because of his experience, Morales has proven that he can adapt to various styles, meaning that Morales would be more able to make adjustments in the ring. By contrast, Manny Pacquiao has shown that he can be out-boxed.
Advantage: Morales

Courage:
Both fighters have proven their courage and tenacity.
Advantage: Even

If Pacquiao is to win, he must lure Morales into a slugfest where he can beat Morales to the punch, and do what no other fighter has been able to do … stop Morales. The deeper the fight goes, the more opportunities Morales will have. Which is why Pacquiao's handlers are predicting an early KO. It makes sense for Pacquiao to push the pace early on the slower Morales.

If Morales is to win, he must remain disciplined and not get reckless. Morales must keep moving to Manny’s right in order to avoid Pacquiao’s heavy left hand. If Morales fights this fight like a tall fighter; uses his jab and doesn't get lured into a slugfest, he can catch Manny reaching in and knock him out.

--Mighty Moe

The Great Roy Jones

What Roy Jones did in the ring was nothing short of spectacular throughout his career. With a record of 49-3, with 38 knockouts, titles in four divisions, and the distinct honor of being the first middleweight champion in 90 years to win the heavyweight title (albeit a portion of the title and not the legitimate heavyweight championship held by Lennox Lewis), his place is secure in the Boxing Hall of Fame.

Despite Roy Jones’ achievements, I have reservations about mentioning him along side the other greats like Joe Louis, Ray Robinson, Ray Leonard and Roberto Duran. Or even along side contemporaries like Oscar de la Hoya, Bernard Hopkins and Evander Holyfield.

One of the things that cause me to hesitate in mentioning Roy Jones along side these other great fighters is that throughout his career Roy avoided serious competitors. Despite winning a close decision against Bernard Hopkins in 1993, Roy Jones never gave Hopkins a rematch. And, despite bragging about his exploits, Roy never wanted to fight the top competitors of his era, Joe Calzaghe, Vassily Jirov and Dariusz Michalczewski. In truth, we will never know how great Roy Jones was during his prime because those fights were never made. Instead, the fights that will remain in my mind are those against lackluster mandatory opponents like Clinton Woods.

Another aspect that causes me to hesitate mentioning Roy Jones among the very best in boxing is how he ended his career. The end came suddenly for Roy. One day it seemed he was on top of the boxing world, the next he was sitting on a stool with an ice pack on his swollen face wondering what happened.

What happened was Roy Jones grew old, and when his lightening reflexes and speed were no longer faster than everyone else’s, his career came to an “end” as suddenly as his knockout losses. Without his superior physical advantages, he could not compete … the skill level was just not there, the mental toughness was not there.

Roy never had to discipline himself throughout his career; he would break all the rules in boxing because his athleticism allowed him to get away with it. Roy would allow his left hand to wander at or around his waist, fire straight right hands without setting the punch up, and jab to the body without getting hit in return. But once his great speed was gone, he didn’t have great skills to fall back on.

Roy Jones is perhaps one of the best physical athletes boxing fans have had the privilege of watching, but I don’t think he will be remembered as one of the sport’s best boxers, or best fighters.

--Mighty Moe

Ali vs. Frazier III

I just recently watched the third fight with Ali and Frazier. Boy, I had forgotten what a great fight that was it was. I had the fight dead even going into the 15th round ... but Frazier was hurt and didn't answer the bell. Ali was so exhausted, he couldn't get off his stool, and did his entire post fight interview sitting down, barely able to catch his breath. He respectfully credited Frazier as the "greatest," next to him of course. Joe, also a good sportsman, came over to congratulate Ali.

It had all of the heart and spirit you would expect in a title fight. As Joe Frazier realized that Ali was starting to steal the fight, Smokin' Joe started throwing hay makers and taking chances ... it was the only thing keeping him in that fight. Joe even landed some of those haymakers, I really don't know what kept Ali up.

Ali was tremendous, he took such a pounding from Joe, I really don't know how or where he found the strength to stop Joe. And Joe, what a work horse, the way he kept on coming; kept pressing the action, trying to smother Ali's punches. It was such a competitive fight with neither fighter giving an inch, you could tell that neither fighter was fighting for the money ... there was a lot more at stake.

What a great fight, fought by great athletes.