Showing posts with label boxers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label boxers. Show all posts

Sunday, October 23, 2016

Boxer Tyson Fury Relinquishes His WBA And WBO Title After Testing Positive For Cocaine

Champ Gives Up Title Rather Than Being Stripped Of Them Due To Positive Cocaine Test

Tyson Fury
British boxing champ, Tyson Fury, has relinquished his WBO and WBA boxing titles, after testing positive for cocaine. Months prior, Fury lost his IBF title, due to a rematch clause with boxer Wladimir Klitschko, the former world champion he defeated in a rousing November 2015 match. The fight was amazing. However, Fury has fallen into the cocaine trap other champions have such as his namesake, Mike Tyson and fellow Brit, Ricky Hatton.

Boxers take punishment in the ring and it can result in depression. In failed attempts at escaping the pain, boxers have turned to cocaine. However, cocaine only makes their problems worse. While I do not encourage boxers to take cocaine, I am not going to judge them either, as they are clearly in pain and suffering from concussive issues that can lead to depression. I covered this subject almost three years ago on January 22, 2014 in How To Reap The Benefits Of Boxing While Avoiding The Pitfalls and again on February 27, 2016 in Boxers And Brain Injuries.


Tyson Fury (left) and Wladimir Klitschko (right)

I've often wondered about the pain boxers endure in the ring. Boxers don't publicly cry when they are hurt, but they must be in pain. Punches to the face and body shots are humanly painful. However, more has to be done regarding creating awareness for boxers on the dangerous of drugs, how to properly address health problems from the ring and pain management, as due to the strength and stamina they possess, boxers often think they are invincible. 

It is a part of their job title to think, train and fight like they are invincible. It helps them win. However, at the end of the day, boxers must remember they are human and need proper care. Don't shrug off health concerns, believing you are too tough to be wounded. At some point or another, everyone is hurt in life. It's called being human. Take care of yourselves, both mentally and physically. I wish you good mental and physical health.   

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Wednesday, August 17, 2016

Are Rematches And Back To Back Title Fights A Good Idea In Boxing When A Fighter Is Coming Off A Loss


Boxing
 
To rematch or not to rematch, that is the question. Are back to back title shots a good idea after a loss, that is also another question. If you have a boxer who has been soundly beaten in the ring by an opponent, arranging a rematch that could result in a similar loss, will be devastating to a fighter's confidence and career. Sometimes a rematch is simply not the best idea. However, you have to judge it based on certain factors, such as the probability of avenging the loss in the ring via a rematch, the current fitness of your fighter against that of the opponent who prevailed in the first outing and the point your fighter is at in their career. 
 
If it was a bad beating, a rematch is not a good idea. Cut your losses and move on. If your fighter is at an early stage in their career, somewhere between fight 1-15, a rematch and a second loss to the same fighter can prove very problematic wreaking havoc on the boxer's confidence, endorsement deals and earning potential, the caliber of fights you can make and general press regarding what will be stated by critics and fans. It's much easier to recover from back to back losses later in a career, as opposed to the early stages of it.

Back to back title shots after a loss is also a bit risky. To receive a title shot and lose happens. However, to get another title shot as the next fight and lose that one as well, it difficult. After losing a title shot, it is best to make a come back with a few warm up fights you know you can win, because if you lose two back to back title shots, it puts a major dent in one's career. Sometimes it is best to work one's way back up to another title shot, via a series of wins that rebuilds the confidence and improves one's skills.
 
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Saturday, July 30, 2016

Was Adrien Broner Wrong To Turn Down The Manny Pacquiao Fight Wanting More Money


Bob Arum and Manny Pacquiao
 
Top Rank boxing promoter, Bob Arum, revealed during an interview with BoxingScene.com that boxer Adrien Broner turned down the opportunity to fight boxing legend Manny Pacquiao. Broner wanted more money than Arum was offering. Arum stated Broner "priced himself out of the fight" and "I was dealing with Al Haymon on making that fight. Al tried but Broner was asking for crazy money that nobody can afford, so he is out and Manny is looking for another opponent.



Adrien Broner
 
Since Mayweather has retired and Pacquiao retired and un-retired (LOL) Manny is the biggest draw in boxing. Other champions such as Tyson Fury (heavyweight), Deontay Wilder (heavyweight) and Canelo Alvarez (middleweight) are pulling in strong viewing numbers and millions of dollars per fight. 

The problem is Broner wants to be the new Floyd Mayweather, but he has not fought long enough to bring in that type of money from boxing ticket sales and pay-per-view. You have to get in where you fit in. Once you reach that level, then you can demand the huge sums your pay-per-view numbers warrant (oops, I said warrant and Adrien is in jail - I'm just playing Adrien, don't get mad).

STORY SOURCE

Adrien Broner: F*** Bob Arum Pay Me What I Deserve B****
 
July 13, 2016 - Adrien ‘The Problem’ Broner has never been shy about voicing his opinion and this week on social media he’s let fly at Hall of Fame Promoter Bob Arum. In recent times there has been speculation in the boxing world that if a Manny Pacquiao return were to happen in late 2016, which his promoter Bob Arum has said it will, that a possible opponent for the Filipino boxing icon could be Broner... 

Recent reports on Boxing Scene suggested that Broner had priced himself out of the fight, according to Top Rank head honcho Bob Arum. But Broner has lambasted Arum this week on his Instagram account saying that he is not paying him enough to take the fight...
 
 
 


 








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The Long Count Fight Between Jack Dempsey And Gene Tunney (Videos)

Longer version without audio:
 

Here's a flashback for you. The 1927 rematch "the Long Count" fight between light heavyweight boxers Jack Dempsey and Gene Tunney went down in history as one of the most lucrative and controversial of its day. Two boxing legends fought in Chicago, Illinois at Soldier Field, before a sold out crowd of 104,943 people. 15,000,000 people also listened to the fight on the radio. The fight grossed over $2,658,660 in ticket sales, which when adjusted for inflation is approximately $22,000,000.

Short version with audio:
 

Due to Dempsey waiting 5 seconds to return to a neutral corner after knocking down Tunney, the 10-second count was delayed. Hence, the fight being dubbed "the Long Count." Tunney regained his focus with the extra 5-seconds and came back and won the fight (beat him in their first match as well in 1926). Dempsey later stated, "It's hard to stop what you're doing, standing over a guy and waiting for him to get up." Controversial or not, Dempsey and Tunney were very skilled boxers, who had many fights and formidable careers in boxing.

Bonus video: Jack Dempsey vs. Jess Willard "The Worst Beating in Boxing History"
 
 
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Tuesday, July 19, 2016

Deontay Wilder Successfully Defends His Heavyweight Title In Bout Against Chris Arreola


Deontay Wilder (right) vs. Chris Arreola (left)

Alabama athlete, Deontay Wilder, has retained his WBC heavyweight title in his home state, winning an 8th round stoppage against challenger, Chris Arreola. Wilder entertained his home crowd dancing in the ring during the fight, but needs to be careful. He cannot do that in a fight against fellow heavyweights Wladimir Klitschko or Tyson Fury, as they will use it as an in to damage him in the ring.

Wilder looked tired by the second round in the Arreola bout. His conditioning may have been different for this fight, but he needs to return to his previous training methods that made him heavyweight champion a year and a half ago. Half way through the Arreola fight, Wilder broke his right arm and tore his bicep. Amazingly, he won the fight using one arm (his left).

As I have consistently maintained on my Twitter page and on the Judiciary Report site, Wilder is currently the hardest hitter in heavyweight boxing. This is likely why Wilder broke his arm during the Arreola fight and previously when he captured the heavyweight title against tough as nails boxer, Bermane Stiverne, in January 2015. 


Deontay Wilder's broken hand

Wilder will be out for the rest of the year and has to undergo two surgeries to repair the damage to his right arm. Wilder's right arm is his main punching arm and the main tool in his arsenal. However, it says a lot that Wilder was able to win the fight with his left hand anyway. That was quite a performance. Wilder is also quick in the ring. However, at times Wilder's defense concerns me, as his face is often wide open and extended forward, with him relying on his speed to jump backwards in dodging punches.  

The biggest heavyweight fight that can be made at this time would be Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury. Wilder hits hard and Fury is also a big puncher, who is tough and durable. Wilder needs to raise his profile with more appearances on television shows and spots in magazines to garner as much attention as possible for the fight that Fury, boxing's biggest character, is keen on as well.

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Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Deontay Wilder Sues Alexander Povetkin Over Scrapped Fight And $5,000,000 Purse Money



Deontay Wilder v. Alexander Povetkin was schedueld to take place on May 21, 2016, but was cancelled when Povetkin failed the standard drug test
Undefeated WBC heavyweight world champion, Deontay Wilder, 30, has sued rival and challenger, Alexander Povetkin, 36, for failing a drug test, which led to the cancellation of their much anticipated fight in Russia. Povetkin's promoter Andrey Ryabinskiy has also been sued in the legal action. Povetkin tested positive for the steroid meldonium, which was added to the banned list in January 2016. 

Meldonium's primary function is as a heart drug. However, it does give athletes an edge in competition, creating increased oxygen intake and recovery (but it is not without considerable risks to a person who is not a cardiac patient: "Tennis Star Maria Sharapova Given 2-Year Ban For Using Banned Steroid" and "42-Year-Old MMA Star Kimbo Slice Dies From Fatal Heart Attack In Florida").

Wilder's purse for the fight was to be $4,369,365, money Wilder lost, as he was the likely favorite to retain the WBC heavyweight belt. Wilder's record is (36-0). Povetkin's record is (31-1). Wilder has a valid case. He upheld his end of the contract. However, Povetkin's conduct via a failed drugs test constitutes breach of contract, as each fighter was legally obligated to show up for the fight drug free. 

As such, Wilder is entitled to financial compensation. Wilder spent time and money training for the fight ($100,000) and in this site's estimation would have won the bout (again the purse was $4,369,365). During said time, Wilder could have taken another lucrative fight as champion and made millions of dollars. Wilder was also deprived of the fight of a lifetime, to perform in Russia before a very large audience, which would have increased his fame in Europe and Britain. Therefore, it is a litigable offense, the case has merit and there are actual damages (financial losses) one can gain relief for under court rules. The case has been filed in New York.

Previously, Povetkin's promoter Ryabinskiy, sued Don King and his fighter, Guillermo Jones, over a failed drug test and won $2,000,000. Therefore, there is precedent for Wilder's lawsuit.

STORY SOURCE

Deontay Wilder, promoter file suit over canceled Alexander Povetkin match

 June 13, 2016 4:54 PM - Deontay Wilder, the WBC heavyweight contender, and promoter DiBella Entertainment have jointly filed a federal lawsuit against No. 1 contender Alexander Povetkin and his promoter, Andrey Ryabinskiy, as a result of the cancelation of their planned May 21 bout in Russia. 

Povetkin tested positive for the banned substance Meldonium on April 27. WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman ruled on May 15 the fight could not proceed as a result of Povetkin's failure. The suit, filed Monday in U.S. District Court in New York, seeks a minimum of $5 million in actual damages plus additional damages to be proven at trial. Ryabinskiy's company, World of Boxing, earned the right to promote the bout via a purse bid in which its bid was $7.15 million. Out of that, Wilder's purse was to be $4,369,365... 

"Plaintiffs' concerns about ensuring proper testing for banned substances became amplified when, in or around late March 2016, DBE received information that made it concerned that Povetkin was undergoing some kind of doping (i.e., use of banned substances) regimen," the suit read. "In particular, DBE learned that Povetkin had traveled to Spain, which was highly suspicious considering that (i) it is common knowlege in the boxing industry that Povetkin does not like to train outside of Russia, and (ii) while Spain is not known to be a traditional place for boxers to train, it is notorious as an epicenter of doping. Based upon this information, DBE and Wilder began pressuring the WBC to immediately commence random doping testing for the Bout." 

Guillermo Jones, a Don King-promoted fighter, tested positive for a banned substance and couldn't compete against a WOB-promoted fighter. Ryabinskiy sued King for failing to produce Jones and won a $2 million judgment...
 
  
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Tuesday, June 28, 2016

Thurman v. Porter Scores Big With Boxing Fans


Keith Thurman Jr vs. Shawn Porter

Thurman v. Porter lit up the boxing world on Saturday night in New York. Keith Thurman Jr. ("One Time") squared off against Shawn Porter ("Showtime"). Two great welterweight boxers went to war. Thurman won in a unanimous victory during the slugfest with a score of 115-113, 115-113, 115-113. Many on social networking are branding it the fight of the year. The reviews from fans are overwhelmingly positive. Ironically, though it was slugfest, the two men are friends. However, it was all business in the ring.


Thurman should fight boxer Adrien Broner, who can box, but is trouble prone outside the ring. Broner is a big puncher for his weight class and would bring a significant amount of publicity from fight fans and casual observers. Broner is currently fighting a criminal case for knocking out a man in a Ohio bowling alley parking lot, after he lost a $10,000 bet.


I need to stop making jokes about Broner, due to what I have written in past columns. He might sic his baby mama on me. You guys would just see it on the news “And on tonight's news, blogger knocked out cold in parking lot by Adrien Broner’s baby mama” (LOL).


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Friday, June 24, 2016

Boxers Determining The Right Weight Class


Adrien Broner looked like he was dreaming about a cheeseburger at the weigh-in after not eating for days
 
 Boxers choose the weight class they feel is right for them for various reason. There are 17 standard weight classes. Among them are light flyweight, flyweight, bantamweight, lightweight, light welterweight, welterweight, middleweight, cruiserweight, heavyweight, super heavyweight ect. Some feel more comfortable fighting at the weight class closest to their natural weight, while others struggle by choosing a weight class well below their natural size. Some even choose their weight class based on their favorite boxer growing up.

However, what happens when a boxer struggles to maintain that weight (especially in the lighter weight classes). What happens when it becomes an issue for a boxer to make weight/reach the catchweight for their fight. Boxers are fined for not making weight, losing tens of thousands of dollars, as being heavier than the stipulated catchweight provides an undue advantage over an opponent, which can turn dangerous.

Some boxers like their food more than others, indulging in pork chops, steaks, ribs, French fries, hot dogs, cake and ice cream (*looks at Adrien Broner*). Broner famously had a problem making weight this year for his fight against challenger, Ashley Theophane. It resulted in Broner being stripped of the belt and being fined $50,000 which he had to pay to Theophane. Broner now states he has outgrown the lightweight division and will move up to welterweight - translation: he’s not giving up the pork chops.

Broner and Theophane were not overweight prior to training camp, but they don’t seem to be fighting at their natural weight. Translation: those two looked hungry at the weigh-in like they were having fantasy type visions of cheeseburgers (LOL). They looked exhausted and below their natural weight for the fight, due to intense training and trimming down to make the catchweight. Theophane only had a few pounds to lose. Broner had roughly 25-pounds to lose after indulging in his favorite foods between fights and missed it by a small margin at the weigh-in. Hence the fine.

Some boxers really appear to be naturally thin due to their metabolism (Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez, Guillermo Rigondeaux). However, others clearly make a disciplined effort to lose weight for the catchweight, as they don't maintain the stipulated weight for their weight class between fights.
If Broner feels he can comfortably fight in a new weight class, this should not pose a problem for him and may as well, as he is clearly unhappy trying to maintain his weight in the lightweight division. To go for days without eating, while running for hours days in a row, mentally and physically draining one’s self for each fight, will take its toll after a while.

Being a welterweight will not pose a risk to Broner’s health (provided he doesn‘t develop cholesterol problems from the pork chops and hot dogs). Therefore, he may as well leave the lightweight division. It can’t be worth the distress of slimming down with a hungry look in your eyes like a zombie. Looking like you’re about to raid a donut shop and jump into a pile of donuts face first.

Some boxing trainers insist, if you aren’t use to fighting in a different weight class, it can cause a problem. Therefore, boxers will have to weight the risks (*looks at Amir Khan*). This year, Amir Khan famously went up two weight classes to fight Canelo Alvarez, who is like a bull and strong as an ox. It worked for a little bit, but the moment Canelo correctly cut off the ring he knocked out Khan in a KO that is very uncomfortable to watch.

Khan was laid out on the canvas, looking like he was going. After a few minutes, medical staff were able to revive him and take the boxer to the hospital. As much as Khan had gained weight and some muscle, successfully hitting the catchweight, he was not use to fighting as a middleweight or facing one. It was an intense knockout. Thus far, the knockout of the year. Khan was not used to being hit with that type of force and could have paid for it with his health. It was too much of a jump in weight class.
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Are There Too Many Weight Classes And Boxing Organizations


Are there too many boxing organizations (WBC, WBO, WBA, IBF) and weight divisions? No. I think it gives many boxers a chance to really shine and the opportunity to get a belt/title. It creates more opportunities, jobs and boxing matches for audiences via a plethora of competition.

To the boxers who reach the top of their ranks, they can choose to fight for all the belts within their weight class, in an attempt to unify the division, which is not easy, but history has proven it is achievable (light flyweight, flyweight, bantamweight, lightweight, light welterweight, welterweight, middleweight, cruiserweight, heavyweight, super heavyweight ect). Therefore, the system works and is beneficial to the sport. It gives many athletes the chance to ear a decent, honest living doing what they love.
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Thursday, June 2, 2016

The AIBA Makes New Rule Allowing Professional Boxers To Compete At The Olympics


Canelo Alvarez knocks out Amir Khan last month in Las Vegas for WBC middleweight title
 
The AIBA has issued a ruling allowing professional boxers to compete at the Olympics. A number of high profile boxers are against the decision, labeling it dangerous, while a few pugilists, such as Manny Pacquiao and Wladimir Klitschko  are in favor of it. Professional boxers have a huge advantage over amateur boxers. As stated in the column previously, when you look at the videos of a boxer during his amateur days, compared to his professional career, about 20 fights in, you will see a significant difference and improvement.

Boxer Amir Khan who was born, raised and lives in Britain, wants to fight for his father's native Pakistan at the Olympics. The Pakistani Olympic committee is excited about the news. However, as some have pointed out, Khan may not be eligible. Years prior, Khan's brother, Haroon, fought for Britain at the Olympics and later tried to represent Pakistan. He was declined due to Olympic rules. Britain has done a lot for Khan. No disrespect to Pakistan, but if he is to go to the Olympics, Khan should fight for Britain. 

Britain currently has 13 world champions and would have a massive advantage if they sent their professional pugilists to the Rio Olympics in Brazil. However, based on a statement online, the British Olympic committee does not seem to be in favor of sending their professional boxers, wanting to give the amateurs a chance. 

STORY SOURCE

AIBA decides to allow Pro boxers at Olympics 
IANS | Lausanne (Switzerland) June 1, 2016 Last Updated at 17:00 IST - Participation of Indian boxers in Rio Olympics at stake after AIBA warns India Two Ugandan boxers qualify for Rio Olympics Vikas Krishan all set for AIBA Pro Boxing debut Olympics dream over for boxers.

Mary Kom, Sarita (Roundup) Male boxers will not wear protective headguards at Rio Olympics
Star Indian boxer Vijender Singh has been handed a golden chance to represent the country at the Rio Olympics after the International Boxing Association (AIBA) confirmed on Wednesday that professional pugilists will be allowed to compete at the quadrennial extravaganza.

 In a vote on Wednesday, 84 of the 88 member-federations of the AIBA approved a rule change allowing professional boxers to compete at the Olympics. AIBA chief Ching-Kuo Wu informed the media that a total of 26 Olympic berths across all weight categories will be up for grabs at a qualifying tournament for professional boxers to be held in Venezuela next month...

http://www.business-standard.com

Amir Khan keen to represent Pakistan at Olympic Games in Rio
Last Updated: 01/06/16 4:14pm - Khan's comments came after the International Boxing Association (AIBA) announced on Wednesday that professional boxers would be allowed to compete in Brazil this summer. Khan subsequently turned professional and in 2009 outpointed Andriy Kotelnik to win the WBA world super-lightweight title. 

The 29-year-old - whose most recent fight ended in a brutal knockout defeat to WBC middleweight champion Saúl Álvarez - hailed the ruling by boxing's governing body. "It's a decision which I welcome," Khan said at a press conference in Karachi. Khan represented Great Britain at the 2004 Olympics in Greece. 

"It will help boxers and if I am permitted as per rules and from my promoter then I would love to compete for Pakistan. I will be very happy if I can compete in the Olympics. I want to serve Pakistan." Khan's father, Shah, hails from a village close to the capital Islamabad but migrated to Britain, where Amir was born in 1986. 

Pakistan Boxing Federation secretary Iqbal Hussain said he was thrilled at the prospect of Khan representing the country. "I have to check the rules whether Amir can compete or not but it would be a huge boost for us if it happens because he is our hero," he said. Khan's younger brother, Haroon, was blocked from representing Pakistan at the 2012 London Olympics as he had represented Great Britain at junior level. 
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Saturday, May 21, 2016

Canelo Vacating WBC Belt Over GGG Causing Controversy Online


Canelo
 
WBC middleweight champion, Canelo Alvarez, fresh off his victory over challenger, Amir Khan, has vacated his title belt, during negotiations to fight Gennady Golovkin, also known as GGG. Some fans on social networking voiced their displeasure at Canelo vacating the title, interpreting it as the boxer ducking the dangerous GGG, whom he has stated he is not afraid to fight in the ring.


Gennady Golovkin (GGG)
 
Canelo released a statement on the matter, "After much consideration, today, I instructed my team at Golden Boy Promotions to continue negotiating a fight with Gennady ‘GGG’ Golovkin and to finalize a deal as quickly as possible. I also informed the WBC that I will vacate its title. For the entirety of my career, I have taken the fights that no one wanted because I fear no man. Never has that been more true than today. I will fight ‘GGG,’ and I will beat ‘GGG’ but I will not be forced into the ring by artificial deadlines. I am hopeful that by putting aside this ticking clock, the two teams can now negotiate this fight, and ‘GGG’ and I can get in the ring as soon as possible and give the fans the fight they want to see."

STORY SOURCE

STATEMENTS FROM CANELO ALVAREZ AND OSCAR DE LA HOYA
 
Canelo Alvarez vacates WBC title ahead of potential fight with GGG

LOS ANGELES (May 18, 2016) – Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez today issued the following statement: “After much consideration, today, I instructed my team at Golden Boy Promotions to continue negotiating a fight with Gennady ‘GGG’ Golovkin and to finalize a deal as quickly as possible. I also informed the WBC that I will vacate its title. For the entirety of my career, I have taken the fights that no one wanted because I fear no man. Never has that been more true than today. I will fight ‘GGG,’ and I will beat ‘GGG’ but I will not be forced into the ring by artificial deadlines. I am hopeful that by putting aside this ticking clock, the two teams can now negotiate this fight, and ‘GGG’ and I can get in the ring as soon as possible and give the fans the fight they want to see.” 

Golden Boy Promotions Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya today issued the following statement: “There is no denying that Canelo is the biggest star in the sport of boxing. He is eager to get in the ring with ‘GGG’ to show the world that he is also the best pound for pound fighter in the sport, but we won’t negotiate under a forced deadline. Now that the WBC title is off the table, I am hopeful that ‘GGG’ and his promoter K2 Promotions will come to the table in good faith and get this deal done.”
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Adrien Broner Talks About Unsafe Method Of Trying To Make Weight That Cost Him The WBA Boxing Belt


Adrien Broner

Ohio boxer, Adrien Broner, recently did an interview about not making weight for his April 1, 2016  fight against challenger, Ashley Theophane. It cost Broner $50,000 that went to Theophane as a bonus. Broner was stripped of his WBA junior welterweight title days prior to the fight, for weighing in at 140.4 pounds, which was .4 lbs over the limit for the weight class (the catch weight).

Broner didn't take training seriously enough and maintained a high calorie diet in the lead up to the fight. He is also an alcoholic, which causes one to retain fluid. I sounded a warning on Twitter two weeks before the fight, as I realized he was not going to make weight and he ended up not doing so. The catch weight exists to ensure a fair, even fight between boxers. However, he did put in a major effort after that point to reach the catch weight and missing it by 4 ounces really does not constitute an unfair advantage to an opponent (provided there is no massive dehydration masking the true weight, with dehydration before the fight sending the body mass up a good 10 pounds, at the true weight).

Broner's weight had significantly come down and it showed on his thinned out frame. Both boxers were basically the same size. However, the whole episode had me thinking, why wasn't he being weighed every few days. It's his career and something that needs to be taken seriously. Broner wants to be a big promoter, having started AB Promotions, to handle his business affairs. However, to have the best results in business, you have to be disciplined and professional on all levels.

Broner stated to the Fight Hype website about failing to make weight, "It's just something that a reporter like you guys will never understand, because you guys haven't pushed yourself for three months, trying to get down to the weight, then once you hit that wall you just can't go no more...It was over. I grew out of the weight class." 

Broner has now decided to move up to a new weight class. It's clearly too stressful for him to be a light weight. Therefore, it is understandable he would seek to do this. However, the question is will he quickly adapt to fighting in a new, heavier weight class, after several years as a lightweight. Recently, Broner predicted his friend Amir Khan would beat Canelo Alvarez after moving up two weight classes. However, as I predicted, Canelo won the fight. There are pros and cons to moving up to a new weight division. 

Broner stated in another interview that in the days leading up to the Theophane fight, he didn't eat for days, just kept sleeping and running, which is unsafe. That type of crash dieting can create heart problems. This is why some boxers discipline themselves to stay within a certain weight that corresponds to their division year round. Broner likes to party, eat pizza and fried chicken and drink large quantities of alcohol. There's nothing wrong with relaxing a bit, but gaining 20-30 pounds inbetween fights, then engaging in drastic dieting to lose the weight in a short space of time, is not good for anyone's health. Boxers should try to stay within 5-pounds of their weight class, as you can easily drop 5 pounds with a few days of roadwork (jogging). 

For years Floyd Mayweather maintained his weight year round and even in retirement is still hovering at that same general weight. Boxers such as Canelo Alvarez and Deontay Wilder also routinely stay within a few pounds of their weight class inbetween fights. To be fair, when some boxers lose a fight, especially a big one, it is a crushing blow. They use food to comfort themselves and the pounds pile on. If they have no upcoming bouts for several months or more, the weight creeps up on them and by the time the next fight rolls around they've gained 20 or more pounds. As boxing is their bread and butter, pardon the pun, they have to make a conscious effort to stay within a few pounds of their weight class. You can't give up on yourself.   

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Adrien Broner's Floyd Mayweather And Money Team Diss Track 'Slammer' Is Making Its Way Around Social Networking And Select Radio Stations


Adrien Broner and Floyd Mayweather prior to their current dispute
 
Former WBA champion, Adrien Broner, is spending time promoting his song "Slammer" which slams pugilists Floyd Mayweather, Ashley Theophane and the rest of the Money Team collective. The song is making its way around social networking and select radio stations. Some people like it. Some people do not. However, it is not a hit. The content and production are to blame.

Broner began his verses too early and too late during a few segments of the song, missing the beat at times by a few noticeable seconds. There are some overlaps there as well, leaving it disjointed, unlike the song it comes from, which is the hit "Panda" by rapper Desiigner. I was also unable to discern some of what Broner was saying at select parts of the track "Slammer" (then again, I don't really know what Desiigner is saying on most of "Panda" either, all I heard was "panda, panda, panda" and "I got broads in Atlanta" which is not the best message to send).


Adrien Broner versus Mayweather's Money Team boxer Ashely Theophane
 
The producer of "Slammer" didn't do the best job with the song. The production on "Panda" is slicker, more polished. If Broner wants to be a rapper, they are going to have to improve the production on his tracks and sync them better. At the end of the day, "Slammer" is also not my type of song, as it is full of profanity and crude references to women, which doesn't set a good example for impressionable audiences. 

In closing, Broner better be careful Mayweather doesn't pay a  rapper to diss him back and call the track "Bowling Alley" (LOL I'm playing).
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Thursday, May 19, 2016

Adrien Broner Disses Floyd Mayweather And The Money Team In New Song ‘Slammer’


Adrien Broner's song "Slammer"
 
Ohio boxer, Adrien Broner, who fancies himself a rapper in his spare time, just released a new explicit rap song entitled “Slammer (Mayweather & TMT Diss).” The word “slammer” is slang term in America for jail. Broner was recently incarcerated for 11-days on a probation violation, in connection with an original offense for DUI and a second incident on reckless driving charges in Ohio. 

“Slammer” uses the beat from the rap song “Panda” by Designer, who performed the music during the ring walk of Broner's most recent fight. In the diss track Broner slams Mayweather and his Money Team collective of boxers and businesspeople. Broner raps, “I got Floyd going against me...I found out I couldn’t get him, so I knocked out his nig*a.” 


Broner v. Theophane 

The lyric is in reference to Mayweather refusing to fight Broner, but making a business deal for him to fight his Money Team boxer, Ashley Theophane, which occurred on April 1, 2016. The fight ended in the 9th round, due to a low blow from Broner, which was proceeded by an immediate controversial call from the referee, who disregarded Theophane stating he was okay to continue the fight. It was a strange occurrence. However, it really wasn't a knockout or knockdown. The song "Slammer" was another low blow, especially considering after the fight Broner took to Instagram and referred to Theophane as a friend.

Broner resents Theophane and fellow Money Team boxer, Gervonta Davis, as Mayweather took them under his wing and has been helping them as he once did Adrien, whom many used to refer to as his protégé. As stated in the column previously, Broner is clearly experiencing abandonment issues regarding the man, Mayweather, whom he used to refer to as his big brother.


Image posted by MMA star Conor McGregor of potential Floyd Mayweather bout
 
Broner is angry at all the talk in the sports industry about Mayweather potentially coming out of retirement to fight MMA’s top star, Conor McGregor. Broner wants to be the one to fight Mayweather. He even broached the subject after the Theophane fight. However, it caused Mayweather to literally laugh until he cried at ringside, not taking the challenge seriously.

There are other highly charged lyrics in the song "Slammer" such as the line “And that’s on life, keep playing and you’ll use yours” which sounds like a threat against Mayweather or the man who has sued him for assault and battery at a Ohio bowling alley, after a personal incident went wrong. Broner pulled a gun on the man, who had won $10,000 betting against him. Broner, a multi-millionaire, punched him in the chin twice, knocking him unconscious, then took his money back, in addition to $2,000 belonging to the victim. 

 

Adrien Broner's mug shot from his most recent arrest

The victim required hospitalization and 60-stitches to repair his chin that was split open by Broner, in a matter that is now a criminal case against Broner, who also raps on the aforementioned track in reference to the incident, "you try to sue me, I won't settle" "clean gun, dirty handle" and "they say they got me on camera."

The line “I hang with all felons” is also present on the song and a bad idea. Broner further raps "I'm trying to stay up out of the slammer” but the way to do that is not to hang out with felons. You are the company you keep. The Money Team and the man who has sued Broner for assault, will not be happy with the song. Broner also needs to remember that police and members of the court also listen to music. "Slammer" may full well rile them up in a legal matter that Broner needs leniency. If he is not careful, the court will make an example of him for it, due to the incendiary, unremorseful comments he has made that are clearly about the criminal case.  

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Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Deontay Wilder States Alexander Povetkin Positive Drug Test Is Like Bringing A Knife To A Boxing Match


Deontay Wilder 
 
WBC heavyweight champion, Deontay Wilder, has spoken out about the cancellation of his fight against challenger, Alexander Povetkin, due to his rival failing a drug test, regarding the banned performance enhancing drug, meldonium. Wilder stated, "This is already a put your life on the line type of sport," Wilder said. "This was like someone coming to a fight with a knife in their hands. I still wanted to fight. But at the end of the day I had to think about the repercussions behind it. We would be sending out a message that says it's OK to do this."

Wilder further stated, "The head is not meant to be hit in the first place but we're willing to do it to make money and provide for our family. But we never know if we're going to come out of the ring like we came into it. I'm just devastated. It hurts to put so much work into this, hours upon hours of training and sparring and then the traveling. To come up empty-handed is sad and sad for the sport. A lot of people missed out on a great fight." 

Wilder’s team is mulling over their options, which may include a lawsuit against Povetkin and his promoter, Andrei Ryabinsky. Many companies have insurance. The offender pays a deductible (after paying the premium) if they are found to be in the wrong regarding an incident. However, if the insurance company determines the offender acted in a manner that was reckless, they will refuse to cover any litigation costs or settlements.


Alexander Povetkin
 
Technically, Povetkin breached contract. He was contractually obligated to show up to the fight and be free of steroids or any other encumbrances that would hamper the bout taking place as scheduled. Wilder upheld his portion of the contract. Therefore, it is not fair that he is penalized via losing millions of dollars, after an exhausting training camp that came out of his pocket. 

Wilder should be paid at least $1,000,000 as he has lost the $4,500,000 purse and additional fees from broadcast rights and associated licensing deals. Povetkin’s team should financially compensate Wilder. As they say, "Time is money." Wilder could have fought someone else during that time period and made millions.

Wilder can quickly try to find another opponent, such as Kubrat Pulev, who is fresh off a victory against Dereck Chisora in Germany. There's also Joseph Parker and Luis Ortiz. He could also fight Bryant Jennings in America. However, the WBC is expected to name the mandatory boxer. On such short notice, it would require a good 2-months for a rival to prepare, as Wilder has a dangerous punch. However, it is better than waiting 6-months or more for another bout.

STORY SOURCE

Wilder on Povetkin doping: Like coming to fight with a knife

May. 17, 2016 3:57 PM EDT - Deontay Wilder was willing to risk his heavyweight title and unbeaten mark against a hometown hero in Moscow. What he wasn't as willing to risk was having his brains scrambled by the fists of a doped-up Russian fighter. "This is already a put your life on the line type of sport," Wilder said. "This was like someone coming to a fight with a knife in their hands." 

Wilder was training in England and about to take a plane to Moscow when his camp got word Sunday that Alexander Povetkin had tested positive to meldonium, the seeming drug du jour of Russian athletes. One of the better heavyweight matchups of the year was in limbo as Wilder's camp and the World Boxing Council tried to decide what to do. "I still wanted to fight," Wilder said. "But at the end of the day I had to think about the repercussions behind it. We would be sending out a message that says it's OK to do this."...
 
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