Katie Taylor – Standing-8

RUIZ SHOCKS AJ IN NEW YORK

RUIZ SHOCKS AJ IN NEW YORK

2nd, June 2019

Andy Ruiz Jr produced one of the biggest shocks in the history of Heavyweight boxing to rip Anthony Joshua’s IBF, WBA, WBO and IBO World titles from him in a remarkable night at Madison Square Garden in New York.

Ruiz floored Joshua four times en route to a seventh round TKO win that saw him become the first ever Heavyweight champion of Mexican descent, which stunned a sold out crowd of 20,201 at the iconic venue and handed the Brit his first defeat as a pro.

ANTHONY JOSHUA

On the fight: “Heavyweight boxing baby, thank you to the people who came out this evening. That’s number one. Thank you to DAZN, Sky Sports, Andy Ruiz. Heavyweight boxing is on fire. I just have to turn it around a few notches and bring it back my way. I don’t want people to drown in their sorrows. This will show I have the power and the strength.”

On the difference between tonight and Wladimir Klitschko: “It’s all the same. It just wasn’t my night. But listen, it is good for the TV. Good for DAZN and the people watching.”

On the stoppage: “I want to fight. I don’t do his job. I am never one of those fighters to disrespect a referee like he should have done this or he should have done that. He called it off when he thought I couldn’t fight. It’s a shame. But I don’t want anyone to drown in their sorrows. It’s the long game, not the short game.”

On the immediate rematch: “100%. 100%.”

ANDY RUIZ, JR.

On the upset victory: “I want to thank God for giving me this victory, without him this wouldn’t be possible. I just feel so good, man. This is what I have been dreaming about. This is what I have been working hard for. I can’t believe I just made my dreams come true. I just want to thank my team and my family. The sky is the limit, baby.”

On what happened in the third round: “That was my first time getting dropped on the floor. It just made me stronger. It just made me want it more. I just had to knock him down back.”

On taking Anthony Joshua’s power: “It’s because of the Mexican warrior I am, I have that Mexican blood in me. Talking about the Mexican fighting style, I just proved it.”

On sensing that Anthony Joshua was hurt: “I could but I just didn’t want to throw away what I had. I just wanted to hunt him down even more and work the body. I just wanted to listen to the game plan.”

On a rematch clause: “Of course man, right now, I just want to celebrate. I just made history for Mexico. This is what I have been dreaming about since I was six years old.”

Callum Smith floored Hassan N’Dam three times in three rounds as he successfully defended his WBA World ‘Super’, WBC Diamond and Ring Magazine Super-Middleweight titles on his big US debut.

Smith scored a knockdown with a big left hook in the opening round, another left hook in round two and a right in the third finished the fight.

CALLUM SMITH:

On his performance: “It felt good to be back in there. I took a few months longer than most new champions to get back in there but I showed that I am the best in the world. I plan to keep proving that over the next few years. I hope the fans enjoyed it and I hope to be back in the ring soon with bigger and better things.”

On his sparring with N’Dam helping t§onight: “Not really, but I didn’t have to watch quite as much film on him. He is a good fighter and he has good movement. I knew if I was patient that I would get rid of him. It’s an honor to fight at Madison Square Garden, an iconic venue, to make my first title defense.”

On wanting to put on a show: “I said that in the build up – and it’s no disrespect to Hassan N’Dam – but this was a fight I was expected to win so anything less than a great performance people would take notice. I knew that a fan friendly, spectacular win would though. I knew it would get people talking about me. It was always about the performance just as much as the win.”

On Canelo Alvarez: “I think my audition went well. Canelo is a special fighter. I will have to wait to see what he will do in September or if not September than see what he wants to do in May. He hasn’t said he is moving up to 168 yet but I believe I am the best fighter in the world at 168 so I am open to the challenge. But I don’t want to keep waiting for the fight that might never happen, I want to keep fighting great champions in the meantime and stay busy. There’s a lot of good fighters at 168 with or without Canelo so I want to text myself against them. If Canelo steps up in the future than it will happen.”

Katie Taylor created history by becoming the undisputed Women’s Lightweight Champion of the World with a thrilling points win over Belgium’s Delfine Persoon.

Taylor came under relentless pressure from Persoon throughout the ten rounds that gripped the New York crowd. The Irish favourite looked exhausted in the final round but held on to earn a majority points win of 95-95 96-94 96-94.

KATIE TAYLOR

On the close decision: “It was a very, very close fight. I felt like I won the earlier rounds and she came on strong at the end. But I feel like I did enough to win that fight. But it was very, very close and I knew it was going to be that kind of fight. Persoon was a fantastic champion and she is very, very strong. It all made for a fantastic showcase for women’s boxing. I knew this was going to be the biggest and hardest fight of my life. But I am great at digging deep. I am born for fights like these in the trenches. I worked so hard these past few months in training camp for this kind of fight. My coach is the mastermind behind this and I am so grateful.”

On listening to her corner: “That’s my problem sometimes. I like a fight a bit too much sometimes. I probably should’ve fought on the outside a bit more sometimes. But then I just needed to dig deep and get that win.”

On a rematch: “I am definitely happy to give Delfine a rematch. There are big fights out there for me. There’s Amanda Serrano and I think that fight should be next but I am really happy to fight whoever.”

Josh Kelly and Philadelphia veteran Ray Robinson battled to a majority draw in what was another big step up for the rising Sunderland Welterweight talent.

The North East star once again showed his razor-sharp reflexes and quality counter punching early on but was pegged back by the Philadelphia southpaw in the second half, scores of 96-65 to Kelly and 95-95 twice seeing things finish all square.

RAY ROBINSON

On the scorecards: “Listen, he is the champ and to win you have to outwork him. I thought I did. He did a lot of moving his body, moving his head, and I stalked him. I feel like they brought a pup to a dog fight.”

On back-to-back draws: “At the end of the day, that’s why I am in the sport. I take chances. I am fighting other people’s fighters on other promoter’s cards and all that. If they feel like they are the best than they need to prove it to me. He was the champ and I thought I took his belt from him.”

Rising Light-Heavyweight star Joshua Buatsi stopped Mexico’s Marco Antonio Periban in four rounds as he made another successful defence of his WBA International title.

Buatsi looked ruthless as he put Periban down in the fourth round, then finished him when the referee jumped in to end an assault on the 34-year-old Periban, a former Super-Middleweight title challenger.

JOSHUA BUATSI

On his performance: “I think it was just under a five. I rushed my work. I was too eager. I wanted to take my time. I thought I got a great win in my U.S. debut, I appreciate the welcome from the fans. Respect. I hope Antonio Periban is OK. He was slippery but once I hurt him, I thought, It’s time, it’s time.”

On where he would like to fight moving forward: “I’d like to fight back home but come out here once in a while. Hopefully in the future there’s going to be some big fights to come back here for. I am so glad to have experienced fighting in Madison Square Garden. I am humbled to be here.”

Tommy Coyle was reduced to tears as he suffered a stoppage defeat to Chris Algieri and was denied a fairytale victory in Madison Square Garden.

Coyle made an explosive start and almost stopped his New York opponent in the second round of a brilliant battle, but was eventually undone by a series of hurtful shots that forced trainer Jamie Moore to throw the towel in in round 8.

Algieri’s successful defence of his WBO International title puts him in line to face ‘Mighty Mo” Maurice Hooker for the WBO Super-Lightweight crown.

Million Dollar Ladies-The Resurgence Of Women’s Boxing…Round 2…Breaking Glass Ceilings

“It’s the magic of risking everything for a dream that nobody sees but you”

-Million Dollar Baby

This piece is a sequel to an article that I wrote in March of 2017 titled, Million Dollar Ladies-The Resurgence Of Women’s Boxing, if you want the backstory, the article can be found here….- https://standing-8.com/2017/03/27/million-dollar-ladies-the-resurgence-of-womens-boxing/

If you’d rather just jump ahead,……..protect yourself at all times….

For many decades, as you listened to the chatter in major cities the world around, be it on rapid transit, at airports, or in pubs/bars, you’d hear it, conversation on the purest of sports, the sweet science. “Did you see that knockout?” one would say, “The knockout? What about that body shot and the beautiful boxing?” another would chime in.

In year’s past, the temporal lobe of an eavesdropper would immediately envision a male pugilist with red gloves hitting an adversary. Or, their minds eye may think more specifically to any number of current or past male champions landing an assault as described.

However; in 2019, it wouldn’t be a shock if said eavesdropper thought of a female fighter first when envisioning the combatant. Some of the best fighters in the game today are not only male..but female. Gender be damned.

The most astute boxing observers of the bunch will know what I’m talking about. If I was to reference Taylor’s relentless combination punching and sick skillset, Mayer’s excellent work behind the jab with disciplined movement and defense, Shields’ straight right, wicked left hook, and ferociousness, Hammer’s all around game, the constant relentless brutal pressure and counter punching of Serano, or the undisputed, undefeated Braekhus…you just know.

If you don’t know, you’ve been missing out on some of the best pugilists in the game today. These fighters are moving in on new territory. They are headlining cards and are the attraction. There is momentum with some huge fights on the horizon and the sky is the limit.

In no particular order, let’s take a deeper look at these skilled fighters.

Because she’ll be in action tonight, we’ll start first with Ireland’s Katie Taylor (12-0 5 KO). Already the WBA world lightweight champion to start 2018, Taylor had a heck of a year beginning in April as she captured the IBF title besting Victoria Bustos. All Taylor did the remaining eight months is defend her titles three times, setting up her first bout of 2019 against WBO titlist Rose Volante (14-0 8 KO).

Credit- @KatieTaylor Twitter

As Taylor told the Independent-

“Ever since I won my first world title as a pro my goal has been to unify the Lightweight titles so this is obviously a massive step towards that, “Volante is unbeaten so I’m expecting a tough fight but that’s exactly the kind of challenge I want. I think the better the opponent and the bigger the challenge, the better I will perform”

Credit- Matchroom Boxing

If she is successful, she will add the WBO strap and look for a unification fight against once beaten WBC champ, Delfine Persoon, who just defended her belt on March 9 with a TKO7 against Melissa St Vil.

“For now my focus is on Volante but of course after that fight I would love to have all the belts as soon as possible. Hopefully the Persoon fight can finally be made for the summer and then there are some other huge fights out there as well for the rest of my career.”

If all goes as planned, that fight is rumored to be on the undercard of Anthony Joshua v Jarrell Miller on June1. Rock hurled at glass ceiling…..

I’d be perfectly fine watching Taylor on a black and white TV, she is a throwback fighter. The hand speed, angles, body work, and forward attack. If I ever have the honor of covering one of her fights live, I’m going to wear a derby with “Press” inserted in the band as I bang away on the keys of my Smith Corona typewriter smoking a cigar.

Another interesting matchup for Taylor down the road is against Amanda Serrano (36-1-1 27 KO). Taylor beat her sister Cindy by shutout on all three judges scorecards last October, now, younger sis wants revenge.

What can you say about “The Real Deal” that hasn’t been said already? An unheard of seven weight world champion, she has simply dominated. You have to go back seven years to locate the one and only loss on her record and ten years for the draw.

Credit- YouTube

In her last fight, Serrano didn’t let her opponent Eva Voraberger survive the first minute of the fight, stopping her in about thirty -five seconds. In true Serrano fashion she attacked from the opening bell moving forward as always and landed a wicked left hook to the body, which crumbled Voraberger…game, set, match. Oh, did I mention that Serrano dropped six weight classes to go after that seventh belt? Brutal.

Serrano would welcome the fight against Taylor but as she told DAZN, she’s looking to first knuckeup with “Raging Raja” (Amasheh)-

“I think seven is good and I will probably want to keep this one for a while and defend this against the so-called real champion Raja… maybe she won’t take the fight”

Regarding Taylor-
“If that fight comes, I hope she is ready for it, but right now I have other sights on my mind. But she better be ready for me.”

Serrano had began to navigate to MMA; however, after her promoter Lou DiBella signed a co-promoted deal with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing for a three fight deal that feeds exposure on DAZN, she is poised to stay for the moment.

As she told The Sporting News-

“Thanks to the platforms DAZN and Matchroom Boxing, they’re actually giving women a platform to fight on,”

“They’re paying the women what they deserve, so that’s exciting for me. I was just tired of the way [women’s] boxing was going. Now, it’s going up and even if I could continue to open doors for female fighters and make history, and have girls have someone to look up to, I’m happy to do that. But I don’t have much more in me in boxing.”

If a Taylor- Serrano match is made, buckle up. Rock cracks glass ceiling….

When you call yourself “The Greatest”, or “GWOAT” (Greatest Woman Of All Time), you are stepping into rarified air. That said, when your resume documents history as the first U.S. amateur boxer to win two Olympic Golds, the capturing of three middleweight world titles after only eight fights as a pro, and fighting on April 13th for a chance to unify the division in only your ninth fight?…. You might have a case for said acronym.

Referencing of course IBF/WBA/WBC World Middleweight Champ Claressa Shields (8-0 2KO), or T-Rex, as you will. A nickname that stuck when she first began the sport because of her short arms, and continuous punching.

Credit- Stephanie Trapp-Showtime

Shields is street. There are many definitions for the word; however, used here to reference, as the Urban Dictionary defines it, “The cold reality of day to day life and achieving” as in growing up in Flint, Michigan and achieving success, and “Someone who is ready to defend themselves at all times and jump on any opportunity to level up”…that’s Shields, always on point.

Like Taylor, Shields is a throwback of sorts. When I think of her training, I see an old hole in the wall gym, all business. Goof around here and get knocked out, or thrown out on your ass. You don’t play boxing here…. bring your A-Game every time out. Every second, every minute, be it sparring, on the heavy bag, or the speed bag. This is the stuff that forged her.

Shields probably possess the strongest Ring I.Q.. She is a student of the game and it shows in her approach. She can attack or sit back and box from the outside. It’s her call and whichever she chooses, her adversary would be wise to adjust their own game plan.

On April 13, she will face Christina Hammer (24-0 11 KO), the winner, a chance to become only the second woman in the four belt era to unify a division.

Said Shields at the first press conference for this monumental bout-

“This has been long overdue. I’m just glad that Hammer is here and the fight is set. She’s been at my fights before but I can’t wait to get inside the ring and show her I’m the real champion………..April 13 you’re going to see someone fold. I promise you, it will not be me. Make sure you all tune-in”

“I think for women’s boxing this is a true super fight that we’ve never gotten before. We’ve never had a fight like this in women’s boxing. It’s great to make this happen and us being from two parts of the world makes this fight even better.

“I want to make her quit. I don’t want her to just know I’m a good fighter, I want her to know I’m great.

Countered Hammer-

“I’m looking forward to April 13. I want to show the world who I am….This is a big risk to come from Germany to the U.S., but I believe the best should fight the best and I did what I had to so that this could happen. This fight can be a game changer for our sport”

“This fight is the real deal. This is going to be a game changer for women’s boxing. I think we’re going to inspire a lot of female athletes who want to live their dream. It’s motivation for everyone…..I’ve had the title for a long time. I always push myself. This is the fight I wanted to show everyone who is the best. I will be the undisputed champion.”

“Shields is beatable……….I want to finish the job if I get the chance…….Anything can happen in boxing. I’m prepared to go the distance. Knockout is the goal but most importantly, I want to win.”

Credit- Stephanie Trapp-Showtime

Hammer has held a strap for nine years. It’s no coincidence. She simply knows how to use her physical attributes to execute her game plan. She uses her jab to perfection as she sets up her power behind it. She works the body and navigates the ring on her terms using some great footwork in the process. And beware, her timely sneaky uppercut is lethal as is her right cross.

Credit-Stephanie Trapp- Showtime

Yes, Hammer v. Shields fighting for the unified title is must see TV. Glass ceiling is shattered.

The only woman to ever unify a division? None other than The “First Lady” of boxing, undefeated and undisputed…..Cecilia Braekhus (35-0 9 KO). A champion for ten years, and a pioneer of sorts for those coming through the ranks now.

In 2018, Ring Magazine awarded Braekhus with their first ever women’s pound for pound ranking and championship belt. In addition, she became the first woman to be featured on HBO Boxing.

Braekhus’ footwork is no doubt the key to her success. She effortlessly moves in and out while picking her shots. It is at the core of everything she does. Very skilled in all aspects of the fight game, we need to see her more on the big stage. It is a shame that she has been this dominate and has not gotten mainstream exposure until recently. It’s not that she hasn’t been a star and on PPV, it’s just that it was mostly across the pond. Let’s hope that changes soon and we see much more of her. It has been rumored for awhile that a match against MMA legend Chris Cyborg is a possibility. No doubt a Mayweather-McGregor result….

Credit- Sporting News

It is rumored that Taylor and Braekhus may get together at some point. That should solve the problem.

No article would be complete without a rising star. One who has exhibited everything needed to become a champion but is on the cusp just waiting for their opportunity.

Enter Mikaela Mayer (10-0 4 KO). Top Rank has a hidden gem in this pugilist, and they knew that early on as she was the first woman signed by the promotional company to a multi-year deal.

Credit-YouTube

Well, not so hidden now, as Top Rank has done a great job in getting her exposure on some high profile cards.

Mayer may be the purest boxer of the bunch. Her skillset is very solid and polished, she’s well schooled in the sweet science. Like Braekhus, her footwork is excellent as she sets up her arsenal. She uses her length well and fights tall working off of her active jab. Be it solid left hooks, straight or overhand rights, body work, or defense, she brings just about a complete package into the ring.

We’re looking forward to seeing Mayer get that title shot, and like her as the next big star.

While there are many more female fighters that are on the brink of greatness and are beginning to become regular names in boxing circles, I chose to profile the ones herein because they are on the doorstep of becoming household names, even to the casuals.

Just give me one FOY candidate out of the scheduled or rumored bouts mentioned above and women’s boxing can rise to another level and be sustained.

If that happens, the ceiling is shattered for good and long overdue.

Pay these ladies what they are worth and get them the exposure they deserve. They are not at any less risk then their male counterparts.

Just refer to them as a boxer.

Gender equality is a beautiful thing.

The time is now ladies……we see your dream!!

Sweet Science Snippets

GGG Sleeping Well, Not Having Nightmares

Inside the wrapper of a recently purchased chocolate bar, Vanes Martirosyan (36-3-1 21 KO) found a golden ticket. The ticket represents the opportunity of a lifetime for Martirosyan as this Saturday night he faces Gennady Golovkin (37-0-1 33 KO). Filling in on less than a month’s notice for the recently suspended Canelo Alvarez, Martirosyan is considered to be the sacrificial lamb that ensures the coveted Cinco De Mayo date was filled. Most do not believe that the Armenian born California-based Martirosyan has a chance and for good reason.

For starters, although Martirosyan has decent pop, he’s not a huge puncher and you had better be able to keep Golovkin honest or at least give him something to think about. Secondly, he is trained by Edmond Tarverdyan of Rhonda Rousey/MMA fame and when Rousey fought Holly Holm, a highly skilled former boxing champion, it was Holm’s boxing that set the tone for the KO of Rousey. Tarverdyan’s tutelage of Rousey in the sweet science for the Holm fight was not good. The same for Rousey’s fight with Amanda Nunes. It was said that Tarverdyan had trained with her to box more in the Nunes fight but Rousey was stopped in the first and had no answer for Nunes’ boxing.

Lastly, it will be a few weeks short of two years since Martirosyan last fought. He is a professional and a gym rat so no doubt he will be ready to go but we should expect a certain amount of ring rust. In the past, Martirosyan has shown fatigue during the second half of fights which may not bode well for him here.

Martirosyan has never been stopped and has only been down a few times during fights, coming back to win both. Kassim Ouma was one of the Martirosyan opponents who dropped him, the same Ouma who gave Golovkin pockets of difficulty before he was stopped.

If there is a silver lining here it is that Martirosyan can box. He is one of the most complete boxers in the game and very underrated , layoff notwithstanding. He had competitive distance fights with Erislandy Lara one loss, one draw, Jermell Charlo UD loss which some thought was much closer, and a Demetrius Andrade SD loss. The kid can flat-out box and gives his opponents trouble at random times throughout the fight.

Again, it is his lack of firepower that will be the difference. Martirosyan has a warrior’s mentality and will engage but unless he catches Golovkin with something significant, he will be in deep. Golovkin is adept at cutting off the ring and uses his jab well which should at least negate some of the boxing that the challenger will utilize. Once Golovkin figures out the timing of the slick Martirosyan, he will begin to land his power to the body and head and begin to systematically break down the underdog.

One thing’s for sure, Saturday nights venue, The StubHub Center never disappoints. That said, it should be good while it lasts. Golovkin by 7th Round TKO.
Gender Equality-This First Lady Is P4P Royalty, Gender Be Damned

Undefeated Unified Welterweight Champion Cecilia Braekhus (32-0 9 KO) has made twenty-two consecutive title defenses since capturing her first title in 2009. Kind of Mayweather like in her approach, Braekhus uses her jab extremely well to set up straight rights and her movement is some of the best I’ve seen. Her opponent this Saturday night is Providence Rhode Island’s Kali Reis (13-6-1 4 KO). Reis, a former campion enters having won six of seven, her only loss to highly touted champion Christina Hammer by UD.

Braekhus, the Columbian born Norwegian has longed for a defining fight in the US, as all but one of her fights have been abroad. Although the fight against Reis is not career defining, we know we are very excited to see her on HBO as part of the Golovkin-Martirosyan card.

Kudos to HBO for following Showtime’s recent move to make an effort to air coverage of women’s boxing. Understood that both have done so in the past but let’s hope it is sustainable this time around.

Speaking of women’s boxing, here is a link to Standing-8’s featured piece from last year on the topic- https://standing-8.com/2017/03/27/million-dollar-ladies-the-resurgence-of-womens-boxing/

Gender Equality-Gender Be Damned P4P Part 2-

Ireland’s Katie Taylor (9-0) achieved her goal of being a unified champion with a UD (99-91 98-92 and 99-91) over Victoria Burgos (18-5). She now holds both the WBA and IBF lightweight world titles.

Taylor used excellent movement and combination punching to bank rounds early but changed directions and began to exchange more in the later rounds.

Taylor is highly skilled and it is beautiful to watch her work her craft. Arguably the fastest hands with a killer left hook. We have not seen the best Taylor yet and as her opposition increases we will be in for a show.

HBO and Showtime- get Taylor on a card soon. Thank you.
Brownsville In The Hous….Brooklyn In The House

Danny Jacobs (34-2 29 KO) defeated Maciej Sulecki (26-1 10 KO) by UD (117-110, 116-111 and 115-112) in a tough, tough fight. Sulecki had some moments but Jacobs was more effective throughout culminating with his knockdown of Sulecki in the final round.

Jacobs is a throwback fighter in his approach and style. Every time I watch him, I want to put the broadcast in black and white, don a “Press” derby, light a cigar and start banging away on a Smith Corona.

After the fight, Jacobs stated, ”If Brooklyn wants Charlo, then Charlo it will be”, more specifically Jermall of the #LionsOnly twin siblings.

That would make for one hell of a fight.
For The Love Of The Game

On Saturday night, WBO World Junior Featherweight champion Jesse Magdelano, (25-1 18KO, and mandatory/interim WBO champion Isaac Dogboe, (19-0 13 KO) showed us again why we love this game.

A tough fight with both warriors showing incredible heart throughout. Although Dogboe stopped Magdelano in the eleventh and we saw the title change hands, there were no losers.

True warriors giving it all for the love of the game.
Bye-Bye A-Side, Bye Bye B-Side

Bryant Jennings (23-2, 13 KOs) has had opportunities in his career only to underachieve when the lights are the brightest, most notably the Klitschko and Ortiz fights. If he ever wants to reach that level again, he has to dispatch lower tier opponents. Even though he beat Joey Dawejko (19-5-4, 11 KOs), by UD 98-92 X3, he was unspectacular in doing so considering the opponent. I know Dawejko is a tough dude, but I need to see heavies making statements.

Anwser..An Oxymoron Or Paradox Nickname??

Question- What is Big Baby?

Jarrell Miller (21-0-1, 18 KOs) beat Johann Duhaupas (37-5, 24 KOs) by UD in a WBA world heavyweight title eliminator on Saturday night. Duhaupas is a gatekeeper nobody likes to face but they do it because they have to. After doing so, you’ll know you were in a fight. That said, I won’t go all Jennings on Miller but he should have gotten Duhaupas out of there.

For all the big man skills Miller has, he is technically flawed and when the quality of his opponents increase, the likelihood of them being exposed does as well. I can’t help but think he would be tailor-made for the tall heavies with the long reach. A stiff jab followed by power would be trouble for him.
Yo Riverside….I Did It…

Josesito Lopez (36-7, 19 KOs) turned back the clock and had one of his best wins in sometime beating Miguel Cruz’ (17-1, 11 KOs) by UD.

Fighting for the first time a few weeks over a year with new trainer Robert Garcia, Lopez used a relentless attack with excellent combination punching and committed body work.

Lopez is always in exciting fights and this performance should garner some attention.

MIKEY GARCIA OUTPOINTS ADRIEN BRONER BY UNANIMOUS DECISION IN SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT MAIN EVENTSATURDAY

MIKEY GARCIA OUTPOINTS ADRIEN BRONER BY UNANIMOUS DECISION IN SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT MAIN EVENT
SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME® FROM BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN

Jermall Charlo KO’s Jorge Sebastian Heiland in Four Rounds In SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Co-Feature

Catch The Replay Monday At 10:30 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®

Click HERE for
Photos; Credit Tom Casino/SHOWTIME

Click HERE for Photos: Credit Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment

BROOKLYN (July 30, 2017) – Three-division world champion Mikey Garcia kept his undefeated record intact with a dominant 12-round performance against four division world champion Adrien Broner in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, Saturday
on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®.

In what could be considered one of the best performances of his career, Garcia (37-0, 30 KO’s) won a unanimous decision by scores of 117-111 and 116-112 twice.

“We trained for 10 weeks, we had a great training camp and great sparring, we knew it was going to be a tough fight,” Garcia said.

Garcia took the lead early on, showcasing fundamentally sound technique and backing Broner into the ropes midway through the second frame. A flurry of body shots put Broner in trouble in the second round. While Broner was able to stay on his feet, Garcia emerged with another round in his favor.

“I think I controlled the fight in the early rounds and I kept the activity up,” Garcia said. “Broner is a great fighter and he has great skills but I was the superior fighter tonight.”

Garcia showed a combination of jabs, power punches and body shots all night long. He cornered Broner on the ropes with a huge left hook halfway through the third frame, and backed him in to the ropes again with 39 seconds remaining in the round. While Broner showed some movement in the fourth round and hit Garcia with a succession of 1-2 combinations, Garcia’s bodywork kept Broner at bay.

“It was part of the strategy to be a little busier in this fight than in the fights I have previously had,” Garcia said.

Broner (33-3, 24 KOs) looked to get back in the fight as he started the eighth round with a succession of sharp combinations, however his lack of consistency couldn’t withstand Garcia’s phenomenal body shots and overall punch output. Through eight rounds, Garcia had thrown a total of 500 punches, while Broner had just thrown 291.

“It was a good fight at the end of the day, I come to fight I come to win and I put my heart on the line,” Broner said. “But
it was Tom & Jerry; I had to catch the mouse.”

Although Garcia had amassed an early lead from the first three-quarters of the fight, Broner continued to walk through heavy fire from Garcia in an attempt to connect with a big punch and change the tide of the fight. While he was able to ignite the crowd and land several big punches over the final three rounds, none of it proved to be enough to slow down Garcia.

“It was my timing, I’ve always said I have very good timing,” said Garcia. “It is underestimated when you are outside the ring but once you get inside the ring with me, I’m a step ahead.”

Undefeated Jermall Charlo (26-0, 20 KOs) made his debut at 160-pounds with a stoppage of Argentine contender
Jorge Sebastian Heiland (29-5-2, 16 KOs) in the co-featured event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING. The stoppage came at 2:13 of the fourth round after Charlo delivered a devastating left hook followed by a big right to end the fight.

Charlo, of Houston, Texas, dominated the pace from the beginning. He landed the sharper and more accurate punches throughout the fight, especially in the first round where he landed 50 percent
of his power shots to Heiland’s 13 percent. Charlo’s straight right was his power weapon throughout the contest.

“I felt good at this weight. I was in good shape all camp,” said Charlo. “I just had to keep my composure in the ring. That’s always something I have to work on and I was able to do it.

“After I dropped him the first time they said he fell on top of his ankle. That’s just part of the boxing game. I had to just stay consistent and get the work done.”

Heiland, of Buenos Aires, Argentina, had issues with his left leg after injuring his knee in the first round. His discomfort was clear in his awkward footwork and lack of power behind his punches. Referee Benjy Esteves had the doctor examine him twice throughout the fight, once before the third round and then again before the fourth.

“I turned my left knee in the first round, but I did not want to give up,” said Heiland. “I tried to give it my all, but it was not my night. I had bad luck but I am going to work harder than ever to get back and get another opportunity to achieve my dream and win a world title.”

Charlo stayed focused on his game plan despite seeing his opponent injured. “Sometimes the injury can be a decoy, you never want to just jump in and think it’s part of his game plan,” Charlo said.
“My coach told me to stay behind my jab like I did; continue to work and it’s going to come.”

With this win, Charlo becomes a mandatory challenger for the WBC Middleweight World Championship.

“I’m ready for anyone. I’m ready for whoever wants to fight me,” Charlo added. “Bring on the biggest names at 160. I’m the real Tommy Hearns. I feel it’s my turn and I’m going to go get it.”

Headlining the “SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Prelims,” heavyweight Jarrell Miller (19-0-1, 17 KOs), of Brooklyn, N.Y., stopped former world title challenger Gerald Washington (18-2-1, 12 KOs) after eight-rounds.

Miller used his significant size advantage and effective power-punching to break down the former collegiate football player. Washington had some success early with his jab and body attack, but was not able to stay out of punching range of Miller

Washington surged in the sixth round with a series of power shots that staggered Miller, however the Brooklynite countered and further broke down Washington, who landed just 20% of his jabs overall.

Miller, who landed almost half of his power punches, continued the onslaught in the seventh and eight rounds, and while Washington was able to stay on his feet, he took enough punishment that his corner called the fight after the eighth round.

“I definitely felt the ring rust,” said Miller, who was making his third appearance on SHOWTIME. “Gerald was very tough. It was a very good fight that had me thinking. My power was there, but
I couldn’t put it together the way I wanted to today.

“I took the hard way back coming in off of a layoff. Gerald definitely pushed me and motivated me. I had to rely on my brain and my power.

“I knew there would be a give and take in this fight. It’s one thing to fight when you have stamina, it’s another to fight when you’re tired. I was trying to outthink him.”

In the opening bout of “SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Prelims” on Facebook Live, Irish sensation Katie Taylor (6-0, 4 KOs) stopped Jasmine Clarkson (4-9) after three rounds of action in the latter fighter’s U.S. debut.

The Olympic Gold medalist was dominant from the outset, stalking her opponent around the ring and consistently trapping her in the corner. Taylor was effective with both hands and did most of her work to the head of Clarkson. After three rounds of damage, Clarkson’s corner stopped the bout and gave Taylor her first stateside win as a pro.

“It was a fantastic experience being my first time competing here in the U.S,” said Taylor. “There were definitely some nerves before the fight. It was great to go in there and get a stoppage.

“I hope that I made some fans tonight. I loved hearing the Irish fans in the crowd. I hope that there will be even more next time I fight here. The more fights I have here in the U.S. the better.

“I thought I performed pretty well. I definitely got caught with a few silly shots. I could have been cleaner but overall it was a good performance. I felt good and strong. I’ll be ready to get back in there as soon as possible.”

Additional action saw former world champion Rau’shee Warren (15-2, 4 KOs) earn a unanimous decision victory over former champion McJoe Arroyo (17-2, 8 KOs) and became the mandatory challenger for the IBF Junior Bantamweight World Title.

Warren attacked the body throughout the bout and landed the cleaner, more effective punches over the 12-round contest. The judges concurred and gave him the decision by scores of 118-10 and 117-111 twice.

“I would give myself a B+ for that performance,” said Warren. “I wanted to make sure to use my jab and I felt like it really helped me win the fight.

“I feel really good at this weight. Now it’s time for me to go get a strap. I haven’t been at this weight since the Olympics. I want to get these titles and then go down to 112 pounds for another title. First I want to take care of Jerwin Ancajas.”

Saturday’s fights will replay on Sunday, July 30 at 8:35 a.m. ET on SHOWTIME and on Monday, July 31 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME on DEMAND® and SHOWTIME
ANYTIME®

Intriguing Matchups, Rising Stars, Debuts and Returns, All On Tap This Weekend

I am intrigued………

Mikey Garcia v. Adrien Broner

This will be Garcia’s (36-0 30 KO) first fight at 140 but I’m more intrigued by the matchup than his debut. Broner is a four-time world champion in four different weight classes, Garcia a three-time world champion in three weight classes.

Garcia and Broner (33-2 24 KO) should be boxing at its best. Two highly skilled warriors in a chess match, one looking for the other to make a mistake. I favor Broner’s speed and boxing here; however, he can be countered and that is the one area that Garcia will look to exploit.

In their last fights, Garcia dispatched the highly regarded Dejan Zlaticanin in three rounds, while an injured Broner (Hand injury in Round 1) won a split decision over the tough as nails Adrian Granados.

Broner had issues at 147 and has never lost at 140. Both men have good chins and can box or punch. If Broner comes in “About Boxing” and not “About Billions”, he can do the things that he does to control the fight. If not, Garcia will exploit his weaknesses to capture the win.

Prediction I’ve liked what I have seen from Broner in his training and the build up, thus a very slight edge to Broner in this one.

Jarrell Miller v. Gerald Washington

Jarrell Miller- Photo Credit-Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

An interesting one here in the bigs. Miller (18-0-1 16 KO) is a tank but will give up the height and reach to the gargantuan Washington (18-1-1 12 KO). I favor Miller’s skill set and believe he can chop down the tree but he can be hit as evident in his matchup with the undersized Donovan Dennis.

The question is, can Washington, who was stopped by Deontay Wilder in February, exploit his advantages? Against Wilder, Washington won a few rounds and did some good work before being stopped but couldn’t sustain his effort. If he can stay committed to popping his jab in Miller’s face to set up some power, he can be successful. If he continues to make Miller reset his attack, he can decrease the chances of being caught by the charging Miller.

We know what we will get from the pugilist with the oxymoronic nickname (Big Baby). Miller will look to move forward at all times and knock Washington’s block off. He’ll need to navigate Washington’s length to be successful.

Prediction As the adage goes, a good big man beats a good little man; however, in this instance, Miller isn’t exactly little. I’ve not seen enough from Washington in his fights to be convinced here. Miller by stoppage.

Rising Stars-

Katie Taylor v. Jasmine Clarkson

Katie Taylor- Photo Credit- Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

Taylor (5-0 3 KO) has plenty of intrigue surrounding her, will be fighting for the first time as a professional across the pond thus making her US debut, but we like her best as a rising star.

Taylor will face Clarkson (4-8) as she continues her rise in the sport. Taylor’s skill set is exceptional. She is a relentless come forward fighter who throws tight combinations, works the body, and has power in both hands.

We’re excited for women’s boxing and Taylor is a big reason why.

Prediction- Taylor by UD

Debut-

Jermall Charlo v. Jorge Sebastian Heiland

Jermall Charlo- Photo Credit-Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

Charlo (25-0 19 KO) moves up and makes his debut at 160 against Heiland (29-4-2 16 KO). Heiland does have a KO over Matthew Macklin on his resume and has stopped seven of eight opponents since 2013 but Charlo is unlike any opponent he has faced.

The Texas native is a relentless fighter with bad intentions. A junk yard dog that will hurt you if you make a mistake. If you chose to stay away from his assault, he will out box you while still looking for the fight ending blow.

Prediction- Charlo by stoppage.

Returns-

Carl Frampton v. Andres Gutierrez

The Jackal is back and this time he is facing a Jaguar. After splitting fights with Leo Santa Cruz, Frampton (23-1 14 KO) is back to face Gutierrez (35-1-1 25 KO).

Gutierrez is no gimme, this kid can box and he can punch. Frampton excels when working on the inside which will be key here if Frampton looks to offset Gutierrez’s 5″ reach.

It will be interesting to see how Frampton will respond entering the ring his first time coming off of a loss. He will surely be energized by fighting again in his beloved Ireland, his first time fighting there since 2015.

Prediction- Gutierrez is going to give Frampton hell and may even drop him but the battle tested warrior will win a hard-fought decision. Frampton by MD.

Victor Ortiz v. Saul Corral

Victor Ortiz- Photo Credit Andre Turner II/Ringstar Sports

We’ve been here before with Oritz. He says all the right things, he’s learned, he’s back, he’s committed this time, etc… Again for this fight he has done the same. We’ll find out on Sunday.

Corral (25-9 16 KO) has been very active in 2017 as he was in 2016. This will be Corral’s tenth fight since the begining of 2016. He is 6-3 in those fights, losing to very good competition in Josesito Lopez, Sadam Ali, and Mike Alvarado.

On the other end of the spectrum is Ortiz. Issues outside of the ring and a desire to continue in the sport have seen Ortiz only fight seven times in six years. His was stopped in his last fight by Andre Berto in April of 2016.

Prediction- There is a lot to be said about activity and inactivity in the ring. All the signs point to Ortiz here but we’ll go with the upset . Although Corral has lost when he steps up in competition, time looks to be different.

Adrien Broner vs. Mikey Garcia Undercard Workout

Quotes & Photos

Premier Boxing Champions Event Headlined by

Broner vs. Garcia Saturday, July 29 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn & Live on SHOWTIME

Click
HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

Click
HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment

BROOKLYN (July 26, 2017) – Fighters competing on the Adrien Broner vs. Mikey Garcia undercard this Saturday, July 29 at Barclays Center held an open-to-the-public media workout Wednesday at Modell’s Sporting Goods in Brooklyn before they enter the ring this weekend.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast is headlined by a showdown between four-division world champion Adrien Broner and three-division world champion Mikey Garcia. Participating in Wednesday’s workout and kicking off televised action at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT are unbeaten former champion Jermall Charlo and top contender Jorge Sebastian Heiland, who meet in a middleweight world title eliminator.

Tickets to the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees), are on sale now, and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

Also in attendance Wednesday and competing in “SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Prelims” on Saturday are heavyweight contenders Gerald Washington and Jarrell Miller, plus Irish sensation Katie Taylor. These two fights will stream live on the SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page and the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel beginning at 7:15 p.m. ET/4:15 p.m. PT.

Rounding out the group of fighters participating in the workout Wednesday and competing in undercard action Saturday night are unbeaten prospects
Noel Murphy from Ireland, 2016 Haitian Olympian Richardson Hitchins
and heavyweight George Arias.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

JERMALL CHARLO

“I know that Jorge is a come forward kind of fighter. He’s going to try to put a lot of pressure on me. It’s my debut at 160 pounds so I get a chance to go up against someone who’s never been knocked out before and who has knocked out known fighters. I’m preparing for the best of him.

“I want to continue to move up to the bigger names, like I’ve been doing. Hopefully my performance in this fight will get me more notice from those big names and get me those fights.

“This is a new Jermall Charlo who’s better, bigger, faster and stronger. It’s my job to show everyone that on Saturday night.

“There are a lot of big fights at 160 pounds for me. I paid my dues at 154 pounds. I stuck around there so that I could climb up the ranks. The timing is perfect.

“My job is to go in there and do what I know how to do. Hopefully I can corner one of those big names soon. I’m not running from anyone. I’m here to fight the best in the world.

“The weight naturally comes off during camp, but now that I don’t have to stress as much for it, it feels like the way it always should have been.

“Me and my brother both have been through adversity and our time is now. I want to be one of the best fighters in the world and my job is to take care of this step right here.

“I love being here in New York. This is one of those dreams come true moments. I’ve always wanted to fight in New York.”

JORGE SEBASTIAN HEILAND

“I am so thankful for this opportunity to be on such a big card. I’m really happy with how welcoming everyone in New York has been. I couldn’t be happier or more focused on this fight. This is a crucial fight for me and I can’t wait until Saturday.

“The key for Jermall will be his speed. He’s a fast boxer but he’s jumping up a division. I’ve been at this weight almost my whole career. I know he will be prepared, so I have to be too. Without a doubt, it will be a battle.

“I’ve tried different methods of training to improve my punching power and I think it’s worked. The training has given me more strength and power in my punches.”

JARRELL MILLER

“I can’t wait to get in the ring in my hometown. There’s going to be great energy and great excitement on Saturday. I’m in killer mode right now but inside I’m jumping for joy.

“Gerald Washington is a good opponent for me coming back from a layoff. Most people wouldn’t go right into a fight so challenging. I’m warrior-built. I’ve been doing this for a long time.

“My main thing is to go in there and knock him out. However the knockout comes, it comes. This is boxing so anything can happen in there. Deontay Wilder is different than me. I’m going to show that on Saturday.

“I hope that I can get a fight with Deontay Wilder after this one. If he’ll come to New York, then even better. I think my progression is ahead of where he was. We’re going to keep fighting, getting knockouts and eventually a world title fight.

GERALD WASHINGTON

“I had a great training camp. We put in all the work and pushed ourselves. I stepped out of my comfort zone for this one. We’re ready to rock.

“I did a training camp with Wladimir Klitschko, which was amazing. I learned so much from watching him train. The focus that he has and the dedication that he shows is inspiring. It was a great experience to be there and soak it all up.

“I’m just looking to keep focused on Saturday. I’m going to fight hard from bell to bell to get the win.

“Miller is a big tough guy. We expect that from him. We’re in his backyard so I know he’s going to come in 100 percent. We’re here to handle business. All I’m thinking about is Jarrell Miller and taking him
out.”

KATIE TAYLOR

“We prepare for every fight like it’s a world title fight so I’m feeling fantastic heading into this one. It’s great to be on such a big card as well. I’m very excited for Saturday night.

“I’ve been based in Connecticut since my pro career started so I’ve settled in well and I’m feeling ready for the fight. It’s great to finally have an opportunity like this stateside.

“Since the fight was announced I’ve gotten a great reaction from the public. I think a lot of Irish people will be there for both me and Noel Murphy. It’s going to be a great crowd.

“I can be quite aggressive in the ring at times. I think my style is exciting. I’ve also been working on a few new things that I hope people will be impressed by as well. I’m looking forward to showcasing women’s boxing.

“Women’s boxing is on a high at the moment. There have been so many great pros recently and so many big fights being made. It’s only going to get bigger and bigger. I truly believe the best is yet to come for
women’s boxing.”

NOEL MURPHY

“I had another great training camp and I’m in excellent shape heading into the fight. This is my third fight at Barclays Center and they just get bigger and bigger each time. I can’t wait to get another win.

“I try to be clever with my work, while also being aggressive. I want to throw a lot of punches. I also have the ability to box and not get hit. Anyone who is seeing me for the first time will see an exciting style and enjoy the fight.

“It’s an honor to be on this card with Katie Taylor. She’s probably the greatest Irish athlete ever. Male or female. She’s the reason women’s boxing is in the Olympics. She’s a star in Ireland and I’m thrilled to be on the same card as her.

“I’m very thankful to the fans who have supported me and I’m going to make sure they enjoy Saturday night.”

RICHARDSON HITCHINS

“I’m preparing to put on a show on Saturday night. I always prepare to be at my best and treat every fight like a title fight.

“It feels great to have the support of my promoter Floyd Mayweather. I just want him to live up to his word and I’ll live up to mine. I’ve always believed that I’m going to be a world champion one day, and he’s going to help me make it happen. I believe I’m going to be a special star in boxing.

“I’m trying to build experience and step up as I go. I’ll step up when my team is ready. Whenever it is, I’ll be ready to go.”

GEORGE ARIAS

“I’m a fan-friendly fighter. I like putting on pressure and punching non-stop. I can switch it up to movement and boxing if I have to. You can see my past fights are very entertaining.

“I’m really excited for Saturday night. Training was really tough, as it should be. We did everything you’d want to get ready. It should be harder than the fight and it was. I had to train hard for the intensity of my style.

“I’m preparing for my opponent to be ready and hit hard. You always want to prepare for the best opponent possible. I’ll be ready for him.

“Fighting at home is going to be really great. It will probably be the biggest crowd I’ve ever fought in front of and I’m looking forward to celebrating with them after I win

Million Dollar Ladies- The Resurgence Of Women’s Boxing

“Unless women get more recognition, we will be fighting just as a novelty for the rest of our lives. There will be no future.”

The words of former lightweight fighter Marian “Lady Tiger” Trimiar, back in 1987, while enduring a month-long hunger strike aimed at bringing better conditions, pay and recognition to women’s boxing.

Over the years, the glass ceiling in boxing has been cracked a few times, but sadly, has always been repaired. That said, we are in a time that may see the damn thing shattered. To know where we are going, we need to take a brief look back at where we’ve been.

Although women’s boxing was introduced and on display in the Olympics all the way back in 1904, it didn’t make the cut. It wasn’t until 2012 that women first stepped into the ring for the right to earn a medal. Let me say that year again…2012! That was just five years ago. It was the last “male only” sport in the Games to find gender equality. Ceiling cracks…..

There are traces of women’s boxing dating back to the 17 and 1800’s; however, it wasn’t until the 1950’s until there was significant movement. Barbara Buttrick, considered by most as the pioneer of women’s boxing, fought the first nationally televised female fight in 1954. As the legend goes, “The Mighty Atom of The Ring” also won the first women’s world championship. It wasn’t all roses for the woman from Yorkshire, England. Through her career, she had to ignore critics who said her involvement in the sport was “degrading” and an “insult to womanhood”. Many would have crumbled under the pressure she endured but not the 4’11 Buttrick, a true pioneer with a warrior’s heart. A champion cut from every bit the same cloth of any male counterpart.

By the 1970’s and through the struggle of it all in this decade, there were positive signs of progress. Bans on women’s boxing were being removed with licences being issued and bouts being sanctioned. Names like Cathy “Cat” Davis, the first female boxer to be featured on the cover of The Ring magazine, the aforementioned Trimiar, and “The Female Ali” Jackie Tonawanda were all instrumental in fighting for a women’s right to be licensed to fight. Ceiling is cracking…..

One could argue that women’s boxing had its biggest rise in popularity or its golden age thus far in the mid 90’s. It was a “Coalminer’s Daughter” from West Virgina donning the cover of Sports Illustrated with the title “The Lady Is A Champ- Boxing’s New Sensation” that disrupted the status quo of the male dominated profession for what seems like now for only a brief moment.

Martin fought on the undercard of the baddest man on the planet, which by default put women’s boxing in millions of homes world-wide. Martin fought arguably the most memorable women’s fight ever against Deirdre Gogarty on the undercard of Mike Tyson v. Frank Bruno in 1996. The bloody affair against Gogarty is widely considered the beginning of modern-day women’s boxing.

In the years during that period of awakening, many quality fighters emerged. Pugilists such as Lucia Rijker, the first women inducted in the World Boxing Hall of Fame who retired undefeated without ever having a career defining fight. If you had a discussion on all-time greats in women’s boxing thus far they would have come from this time period, “The Dutch Destroyer” would no doubt start the conversation along with Ann Wolfe, Holly Holm, Laila Ali, Mia St. John, Mary Jo Sanders and Regina Halmich who was instrumental in the rise of women’s boxing in Europe.

Laila with the appropriate (sur)nickname of “She Bee Stingin” garnered huge attention as the daughter of “The Greatest” when she began to began to pursue the sweet science. The spotlight brightened even more when she entered the ring against Jackie Frazier-Lyde, yes the daughter of “Smokin Joe”, June 2001, Ali v. Frazier, IV as you will. The first ever pay-per-view card headlined by women.

These fighters were boxers and brawlers and had skill-sets that rivaled their male counterparts. It is a shame that these highly skilled fighters were not showcased more than they were and matched up for some epic bouts. No takers for serious promotions or regular airtime. Additionally, it was suggested that they were more about themselves and less about the game. Crack repaired….

The spark was lit, women’s boxing should have taken off with the strongest group of fighters ever but there were still those skeptics that saw it as a side-show, the chauvinist views that women should be wearing makeup for beauty, not to cover the battle scars of last night’s fight.

Maybe back then, as Ms. Trimiar stated, it was a novelty; however, 2017 looks to be the year when recognition paves the road to the future. There is a current surge of female fighters with extraordinary skills and the timing appears to be right this go round. With the power of social media, something not available in past times, champions and contenders can be publicized to stimulate public interest and build a following. In addition, we have already seen progress through marketing and the showcasing of fighters through mainstream media.

We’ll take a look here at a few fighters that can sustain the sport going forward. Some were outstanding amateurs, some already champions, but both will impact the future. The list is most definitely not complete. No disrespect to the fighters not listed, while most of the below have Olympic pedigrees, this is not to suggest that these women are saving the day. There are many, many fighters never fortunate enough to have competed in the games or had an amateur background; however, their blood, sweat, and tears fighting in bars, halls, and the smallest venues around has not gone unnoticed. They are the ones that kept the dream alive for women fighters of today and tomorrow.

No better place to start than with the lady considered the top P4P fighter in the game, undefeated and unified welterweight champion Cecilia Braekhus (30-0 8 KO). “The First Lady” has made eighteen consecutive title defenses since capturing her first title in 2009. Braekhus longs for a defining fight in the US, as most of her fights have been in Germany. Kind of Mayweather like in her approach, she uses her jab extremely well to set up straight rights and her movement is some of the best I’ve seen.

The fighting pride of Ireland, Katie Taylor, utilizes fast hands, works the body, has a great left hook, and a solid right. A skill set so good that even Claressa Shields sings her praise saying Taylor is the only fighter that comes close to her in skill set. Quite an endorsement. Taylor is set to fight on the undercard of the Wladimir Klitschko v. Anthony Joshua bout and according to promoter Eddie Hearn, a world title fight in Dublin in November is a possibility.

Featherweight Heather Hardy (19-0 4 KO), holder of two titles in different weight classes has an outstanding skill set. While reviewing her fights, I see the strong jab, the movement, the timely uppercuts, the left hook, the overhand rights. Great stuff, a skillset as strong as anyone mentioned. Hardy, with a background in kickboxing and Muay Thai, has dabbled in a brief cross over into MMA motivated by the financial opportunities that come within the cage. No faulting her there, a fighter has to eat. That said, please don’t leave Heather, the sport needs you!

Claressa Shields put a crack in the ceiling this month headlining the first women’s card on a premium network. The two-time Olympic Gold medalist, Shields is a throw-back fighter. Great jab, straight right, left hook and very strong. She grew up in an old boxing gym, nothing fancy just serious training. Arguably, she is the current face of women’s boxing out of the group. While the others may be more popular in their specific country or area, Shields is most likely more well-known across the board.

Nicola Adams– Another two-time gold medalist and the first women to win an Olympic Gold Medal. This flyweight fighter, who just turned pro, signed with Frank Warren and will have her professional debut in April. What movement. Adams is adept at moving in and out with effortless motion while scoring. Her style looks well suited for the pro game.

Shelly Vincent, a highly talented featherweight out of Rhode Island, her only loss out of twenty bouts a MD to Hardy televised on the PBC network. A fight she campaigned for by showing up unannounced and calling Hardy out. A brawling type compact fighter who will be a handful for any opponent.

With a nickname like one of the greatest heavyweights of all time, you’d better be able to bring it. Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano (31-1 23 KO) a southpaw junior featherweight titlist who does just that. An excellent boxer who is disciplined and can get you out of there with power. There is beauty in her brutality. Serrano is very accurate and hits with thudding power. Serrano last fought on the undercard of the Badou Jack-James DeGale bout in January. While the main and co-main aired on Showtime, Serrano’s bout aired on Showtime Extreme. Progress nonetheless. Serrano earned $17,500 for her trouble. A paltry sum for a world champion fighting on a premium network.

This new generation of fighters appears to be working towards a common goal of bringing the women’s game to the forefront and that is the stuff of champions that will make it a success this time around.

Matchups will be the key, as well as promotional companies willing to step up and take a chance. Credit to Showtime for bringing women’s boxing out of the dark ages and begin to regularly showcase these amazing athletes. The UFC has shown that there is a market and big purses for women in combat sports, they just need a chance in the sweet science. But boxing beware, if you lose these pugilists this time around, they may navigate to MMA for good. There needs to be an extreme marketing campaign to get this going in the right direction. The talent is there, it just needs the backing.

As I wrote this article, it became more and more difficult to keep referring to “women’s boxing”. These women are boxers first and foremost, gender be damned. I just love great boxing and boxing skills and these athletes provide just that.

It’s ok ladies, no more hunger strikes are needed, we see your dream…smash the damn ceiling, it is your time.

“It’s the magic of risking everything for a dream that nobody sees but you”

-Million Dollar Baby

The Women Boxing Archive Network WBAN http://www.womenboxing.com/historic.htm provided great insight and perspective into the subject matter.

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