AUGUST 13 AUGUST 13 WORLD C £3.99VOL. 76 NO. 33 WWW.BOXINGNEWSONLINE.NET Jonas and Harper showcase their quality butdidthe judges get itright? 2020 THE HARRY SIMON / FIGHT CAMP III/DAVID BENAVIDEZ /XANDER ZAYAS JAC The driving behind force Frampton K AL R E TURNS WORLD’S BESTFIGHTMAGAZINE EST. 1909 BEST OFENEMIES L When promoters come together ASS WALKER MICKEY Madcap adventures Available in newsagents, or order at www.boxingnewsshop.com ContentsAugust 13, 2020

CARL FRAMPTON 20 On his quest to become a three-weight world champion Photos: GETTY IMAGES & MARK ROBINSON/MATCHROOM UNMISSABLE HIGHLIGHTS

>> 14 HARPER vs JONAS >> 4 EDITOR’S LETTER Another cracking Fight Camp headliner It’s time to stop the emphasis on gender at Matchroom’s Brentwood bubble >> 5 GUEST COLUMN >> 24 DAVID BENAVIDEZ Give Carlos Ortiz the respect he deserves How a chubby teenager went on to become an unbeaten world champion >> 16 CASH vs WELBORN Can this tasty-looking main event live >> 28 HARRY SIMON up to the recent Fight Camp thrillers? The Namibian relives a harrowing and tragic event that changed everything >> 18 FRAMPTON vs TRAYNOR Carl must deal with a late, late change >> 34 MICKEY WALKER of opponent at the BT Sport studios Recalling the all-time great’s heady 14 days in the heavyweight division >> 40 AMATEURS Emeralds Club needs help

SAVE £££ WITH A SUBSCRIPTION >> 42 THIS WEEK IN HISTORY Joe Frazier’s professional debut, For more details visit Nigel Benn vs Iran Barkley and more WWW.BOXINGNEWSONLINE.NET/SUBSCRIPTIONS >> 46 60-SECOND INTERVIEW ‘I CHOPPED MY FINGER OFF WHEN I WAS 14. I BOXED EIGHT WEEKS LATER AND WON THE ABAs’ Dalton Smith

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 3 EDITOR’S LETTER

Photo: MARK ROBINSON/MATCHROOM

HIGH QUALITY: Time to Jonas and Harper subscribe fight to a draw l THERE are numerous ways to subscribe, including special offers.

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l FOR more information on all the subscription options, plus THE QUEST FOR EQUALITY our special bookazines, Jonas and Harper should be championed for their ability, not their gender please visit www.shop. kelsey.co.uk OME Boxing News sustain regular competitive action. between Seniesa Estrada and Miranda or call 01959- readers don’t like “The woman’s body is not designed Adkins on a Golden Boy Promotions 543-747. women’s boxing. to take punches,” another regular reader show last month as evidence of the That’s fair enough. wrote to tell me a few years ago. That problems that remain. It is spectacles l THE next S Just last week we is true. But if they can also tell me like that which repulse and make the issue will be in received a letter that the male body is designed to take criticism difficult to brush off as mere shops on August from a long-time punishment then the point they’re trying sexism. As in men’s boxing, promoters 20 and available subscriber who to make is worthwhile. Fact is, however, and matchmakers have a duty of care. to download on has decided not no human being is built to withstand All efforts must be made to remove the August 18. to renew their punishment. The fate of countless blatant mismatches from our sport. As subscription male boxers – badly damaged or in a general rule, if a suitable opponent The because of some cases killed as a consequence of cannot be found, then a fight should Podcast increased coverage taking too many blows to the head – is not be taking place. Returns! of ladies fighting in testament to that. This sport is barbaric Further arguments have arisen about Matt l THE OPENING Christie the magazine. and brutal whichever way you look at female boxing. The two-minute rounds, It’s more it and that, as diehard fans of boxing, is the maximum 10-round distance for BELL, the Boxing @MattCBoxingNews important than something we were forced to come to world title fights, the discrepancy in pay. News podcast, Editor ever before that terms with a long time ago. The length of fights is open to debate is back and we retain as many In recent years, after significant strides but if boxers have been trained to fight completely free subscribers as possible, therefore it’s my were taken at amateur level, the quality in two-minute rounds for most of their to listen to. duty as editor of Boxing News to listen of women’s boxing has improved. On careers, upping that to three is a bigger l Alex to the views of any readers who don’t Saturday night in Brentwood, Natasha step than one may presume. And the Steedman hosts like what we’re doing. Important too, as Jonas and Terri Harper produced a debate over pay should come down alongside Matt we move forward in a changing world, terrific scrap over 10 rounds while only to this: The financial reward must Christie and to ensure that the BN brand is fair, headlining Matchroom’s latest show on be governed by the level of interest every week balanced and promotes equality in all Sky Sports. It was exciting and laced with that the fight is generating, be that there will be aspects of the sport. courage and skill. Yet the overwhelming via televsion audiences or ticket sales, important For many fans, the first time they narrative – before, during and afterwards whatever sex the fighters generating interviews as regularly saw women box was in the – was the gender of the two fighters. that interest might be. we tackle the Christy Martin-Jane Couch-Lucia Rijker It’s of course important to separate the For women to be that star attraction biggest subjects era. There were plenty of good fights men’s game from the women’s, and to regularly and to gain the respect their in the sport. back then. But there were more woeful champion progress, but time, I believe, efforts deserve, the contests have to be mismatches. Contests made where one to stop referencing the sex of the boxers well-matched and those of us compiling l Listen via could box at a high standard and the every two minutes when ladies collide. the storyline should highlight they’re Apple, Spotify other could not box at all. Unfair fights Highlighting what is blatantly obvious, topping the bill simply because it’s a and all major are ugly at any level, they’re dangerous that it is two women boxing ‘and by good fight. After all, a good fight is a podcast and distasteful and there were too many golly, aren’t they doing well’, only makes good fight, irrespective of gender. platforms. of them cropping up in the female code the quest for acceptance harder to attain. Follow us and keep up to date l New episode simply because there was not enough There is a long way to go. One only every Thursday. skilled women boxers out there to has to look at the horrific mismatch @BoxingNewsED BoxingNewsOnline

4 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net GUEST COLUMN

DON’T FORGET ABOUT CARLOS Photo: ETHAN MILLER/GETTY IMAGES

TRUE GREAT: Ortiz has been in the Hall of Fame since 1991

Ortiz is living proof that legends of the sport are too often discarded as yesterday’s news

HIS summer swarmed Klitschko. One of the great But there remained speculation the 140lbs title as well. I was on a boxers of his era and one of the that if Ortiz were to lose his rubber “People don’t remember or WBC podcast. greatest champions in match against Ismael Laguna at care about what I did in the ring,” The panel was history went unnoticed, completely Shea Stadium later that summer the Ortiz told me a couple of decades T asked if there ignored in fact. As the stream of fans repercussions would reverberate ago. Unfortunately the scene with was one dream frantically rushed past Ortiz trying to beyond the ring. However, a Klitschko bore that out to a degree fight they could get Klitschko’s autograph the hurt on supremely confident Ortiz assured even though to some of us Ortiz make which his face was evident. For a legend everyone there was nothing to will always be revered. In the years one would it of the sport to be relegated to worry about. He then delivered by since, Ortiz has mostly disappeared be? No pun complete obscurity easily outpointing from public view. His phone intended, was an unpleasant Laguna over 15 number remained unchanged but when sight. ‘PEOPLE rounds. enabling me to touch base with him Gleason’s Gym If you want an DON’T Had Duran not recently. Jack owner Bruce idea of the pull that REMEMBER OR suffered an injury When he came to the phone Hirsch Silverglade said Ortiz once had you and been forced Ortiz was initially vibrant. At 83, he his would be have to go back 53 CARE WHAT to pull out of a has not lost any of his charm. But it Senior US Roberto Duran years to the summer September 20, 1972 soon became apparent that he was Correspondent against Carlos of 1967, when then I DID IN THE date with Ortiz at not recalling his past fights with the Ortiz, a bell Mayor John Lindsey Madison Square speed he once could. I decided not rang for me. called upon him to RING’ Garden, Silverglade’s to press the issue in that regard. But It had been eight years since help ease tensions dream match would I am happy to report that if you stay I had spoken to Ortiz. It was on within the Puerto Rican community have become a reality, at least on with Ortiz in the moment his voice a spring night in 2012 when he that was threatening to turn New paper. Fortunately it didn’t, because is strong, his mind is sharp, and was an invited guest at the Boxing York City into a war zone. There was by then Ortiz was far past his prime he sounds just the same as he did Writers Association of America’s a heat wave, combined with a water as evidenced by him retiring on during his championship years. award banquet in New York City. shortage that had people on edge. his stool after six rounds against At this stage of his life Ortiz is Ortiz and his wife Maria sat at my The city seemed ready to implode Ken Buchanan who filled in for the content to maintain a low profile. table. Also at the table was Vitali until their hero Carlos Ortiz stepped Panamanian. Ortiz never boxed He is living proof that fame does Klitschko. in and calmed down the masses again retiring with a 61-7-1 (30), 1 not last forever even when it During the intermission fans by speaking to the huge crowds. NC record, which included winning should.

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 5 ON TWITTER ON FACEBOOK LETTERS @BoxingNewsED www.facebook.com/boxingnewsonline

LETTER OF THE WEEK SKILLS WITHOUT SPITE

THE recent Steve Bunce piece this author’s very personal, touching Taylor-Delfine Persoon world title sequel on Muhammad Ali’s venture and heart-warming story about Tommy also coming up soon, I think it’s safe to to the Soviet Union in the late Morrison in the July 30 issue. As a lifelong say that women’s boxing is no longer just 1970s (July 30 issue) brought to mind boxing fan and admirer of Tommy, it breaking through in the sport – it is now an exhibition I was fortunate to witness brought a lump to my throat and a tear finally established and has the respect while travelling in India in 1980. On a dry, to my eye. A fascinating piece that was and appreciation it has long deserved. dusty Sunday afternoon, a full house at beautifully scripted. It’s not often you Paul Thorpe the National Stadium in New Delhi got to read something that instills laughter and see Ali and Jimmy Ellis display their craft, sadness in equal measure. BN have done SAD SITUATION minus any hurt business. A follow-up a tremendous job during lockdown and I WAS so sad to read of the plight of one bout had Ali tease, to great tumult, the I’m loving all the stories of yesteryear. of my favourite fighters of all time and reigning heavyweight champion of India, Sam Samman one of the UK’s greatest boxers ever, the whose name is missing from the fight wonderful Ken Buchanan (August 6 issue). poster now framed in my back bedroom. FINALLY ESTABLISHED I recall all of his great fights, in particular Another episode in Ali’s world peace tour WOMEN’S boxing has come a long his terrific wins over Ismael Laguna and odyssey... it was all great fun. There is a way from the early days of occasional his spirited stand against the legendary place for boxers to exhibit; I hope that undercard fights, featuring the likes of Roberto Duran, having been fouled the Mike Tyson-Roy Jones Jnr exhibition is Christy Martin and Laila Ali. Take the beyond belief, with the referee doing just a show of skills, without spite. Terri Harper- fight as an nothing about it. What a sad situation Mick Moreton example. It was a headline contest on Sky this exquisite fighter finds himself in. The Sports – two highly skilled Brits fighting sooner the Ringside Rest and Care Home BEAUTIFULLY SCRIPTED for a world title in a tremendous bout is up and running the better. HATS off to Otis Adams! I have just read that demands a rematch. With the Katie Stuart Greenberg

Photo: GETTY IMAGES

6 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net ON INSTAGRAM EMAIL POST boxingnewsonline [email protected] Boxing News Letters, Kelsey Media, The Granary, Downs Court, Yalding Hill, Maidstone, Kent, ME18 6AL

10 COUNT

THE PANEL FRAMPTON’S FINEST WAS THE DRAW BETWEEN TERRI HARPER Listing the top 10 victories of Carl’s career so far 1. LEO SANTA CRUZ (MD 12 – JUL 2016) AND NATASHA JONAS A FAIR RESULT? Although he lost his rematch with Santa Cruz the following year, Frampton was victorious in their initial fight, which at that point was a clash of unbeatens. The win saw the boxer claim the WBA title and become a two-division world champion.

2. SCOTT QUIGG (SD 12 – FEB 2016) In a highly anticipated unification bout between two undefeated super- rivals, Frampton got the better of Quigg and added the WBA belt to his IBF title with a composed performance. Hannah Richard Lisa Stacey Rankin Farnan Whiteside Copeland 3. NONITO DONAIRE (UD 12 – APR 2018) Former world Trainer/Campaigner Professional Commonwealth The decorated Donaire engaged in a top-quality tussle title challenger for women’s boxing fighter champion with Frampton at featherweight. Donaire’s impressive I had Tasha I think it was fair Utter respect for I thought Natasha showings since this loss have made the victory look winning. I felt she because it was a both ladies, it was Jonas did enough even better for Frampton. had done enough. close fight, but I an amazing fight to win. Terri did She put everything thought Jonas did but I believe Jonas really well but 4. KIKO MARTINEZ (UD 12 – SEP 2014) into the fight and the cleaner work won the fight I thought Tash On a memorable night at the Titanic Quarter in the it was inspiring and her punches by a couple of landed the bigger Northern Irish capital, Frampton tamed the tenacious to watch. But it were more rounds. She also and cleaner shots. Martinez with an assured display and secured the wasn’t the kind accurate. Harper landed the more Brilliant fight IBF super-bantam strap – his maiden world of fight that you was always busy substantial shots though so well championship. can call a robbery. so it was one of and obviously done to both Perhaps if Harper those kind of fights had that round fighters. 5. KIKO MARTINEZ (RSF 9 – FEB 2013) had won it might and in the end you where she rocked Prior to taking the IBF super-bantamweight title from Martinez, Frampton ripped the European 122lb feel like that, but a could make a case Harper. I’m not belt from the Spaniard’s grasp. The defeat marked draw after a close for the draw. But being biased at the first time Martinez had ever been beaten inside fight is a fair result. what a fantastic all as I think both schedule. It’s great that fight it was! are amazing but everyone is talking I don’t think it 6. HUGO CAZARES (KO 2 – APR 2014) about it. should have a In his final contest before stepping up to world draw. title level, Frampton made short work of the seasoned Cazares at super-bantam. It turned out to be the former two-weight world ruler’s penultimate SHOULD TWO-MINUTE ROUNDS BE INCREASED TO appearance.

THREE-MINUTE ROUNDS IN WOMEN’S BOXING? 7. STEVE MOLITOR (RSF 6 – SEP 2012) Molitor’s second reign as the IBF super-bantamweight Hannah Richard Lisa Stacey boss had only ended the previous year, but the Rankin Farnan Whiteside Copeland comparatively inexperienced Frampton retained his Definitely but A very tough call. For sure, ladies It would likely lead Commonwealth super-bantam crown in style. we can’t make It was discussed should do three- to more stoppages sweeping changes, at the WBC minute rounds and KOs so I guess 8. CHRIS AVALOS (RSF 5 – FEB 2015) Avalos was on a good run of form when he challenged it has to be done Convention in too, just like they people would Frampton for the IBF super-bantamweight title, yet the in phases. It would 2016 and they do now in the prefer that for the Californian was dispatched with ease. make sense to me decided, after amateurs. Two- entertainment to increase the consulting doctors, minute rounds value. I’ve read 9. JEREMY PARODI (KO 6 – OCT 2013) rounds from two that two minutes go way too quick that the science Frampton is the only man to have prevailed inside the to three minutes was safer. But you where if a boxer suggests it’s more distance against the tough and experienced Parodi. at world title could say exactly holds on after dangerous for With the win, Frampton maintained his status as the level. European the same about taking a shot for females if they European super-bantam king. title fights are two men’s boxing. More example then suffer concussion minutes, but at the and more fighters time just flies and though so perhaps 10. LUKE JACKSON (RSF 9 – AUG 2018) highest level, we want the longer therefore makes there’s the matter An Olympian from the 2012 Games, Jackson had his should be given rounds and the it very hard to of safety to perfect record shattered by Frampton in their open-air the chance to fight 12-round fights. get the stoppages consider, too. featherweight collision at Windsor Park in Belfast. over three. We certainly need wanted by all to look into it. boxers.

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 7 THE BUNCE DIARIES WHEN ENEMIES MEET

NCE upon a time in with the boxer and Lawless. This was big History a Greek restaurant news at the time and it was kept secret, proves called the Phoenix the way all boxing meetings once were. Apollo, a place lost In the shop, Lawless, who knew that rival O in an old east end, Charlie wanted the money, sat with Mickey Duff would his legs crossed looking at a row of promoters not look at, talk to squash racquets. Somebody made tea or share calamari in the back room and opened a pack can get with Ambrose of custard creams and the deal was Mendy. He would, done. It was a bold move by everybody things done however, do a deal involved, a fight that crossed barriers. together with him. At the time – and this is crucial – Steve Duff was doing Warren and the men from the cartel, when there’s Bunce business with a man Lawless, Mickey Duff and Jarvis Astaire, he hated, to finally operated in two very different worlds, @BigDaddyBunce money agree a fight that separated by more than generations. Voice of boxing nobody believed Warren had made fast progress in five involved would happen. It years, he challenged the cartel and was a rare meeting of opposites, but in he was picking up fighters that would their silence and absurdity they got the have traditionally signed for Duff and job done and Nigel Benn and Michael company. Watson had a fight. There were daily skirmishes it There was a similar feeling of distrust seemed, comical stunts, brazen acts on and comedy a few years earlier in both sides. And a lot of lawyers. Life in Charlie Magri’s sports the other boxing bubble shop in Bethnal Green was funny; it was war when and ‘I DID EVERY stations every day from Ernie Fossey arrived to POSSIBLE the very start of the seal the deal for Magri Eighties for over two to fight Thailand’s THING I COULD decades. Sot Chitalada. Magri TO MAKE “Mickey Duff did had Terry Lawless, his every possible thing he manager, at his side, but MICKEY DUFF could to keep me from Lawless was sulking. And being a success and I silent. In 1985 Charlie LOSE SLEEP’ did every possible thing Magri’s best days were that I could to make over, but he was not a finished fighter him lose sleep,” said Warren. “We would just yet. He was still fighting for Lawless sit around thinking of ways to wind and the legal cartel, which Lawless him up. As soon as we got him ranting was part of with his “revenue-sharing” and raving we were happy.” It was still buddies; Magri fought on the BBC and no laughing matter to talk to another he ran the sports shop to get a living. promoter or manager’s fighter and the Warren had Chitalada, who was the creative methods used to overcome WBC champion, a former kick- the rules were often hilarious. Random boxing idol and a veteran of eight fights, meetings, innocent kidnapping, that First World War football match, just five stoppages. Warren had a television mistaken identity, disguises. It was a temporary cessation of hostilities. deal with ITV and Magri was still an slapstick espionage, I loved it. The story behind the Benn and attraction. He had travelled to Italy Magri lost to Chitalada, but it is not Watson fight is genius. Watson was the previous year to win the European the massacre you have been told. Two going to be Duff’s new golden boy. He flyweight title. The offer was 40-grand judges had it even after four completed was clean, he could fight and he was to Magri for the fight. It would be the rounds and Chitalada was hurt in the learning his trade from the bottom up. second highest purse Magri received in a opening two rounds. Magri was heroic In short, he was doing it the right way, 35-fight career. Magri wanted the fight, that night. “You can say what you like the old way. His manager had a British but Lawless told him to forget it, he about Warren, he was the only guy I Boxing Board of Control licence. was adamant he would not do business fought for who I actually felt gave me a Benn was the bad boy of British with Warren. His cartel was at war with fair whack,” said Magri. boxing, he was unbeaten in 22, his Warren. After Magri left the building the last 10 had all been knocked out in But, there was a shift in boxing’s axis battle continued, the tricks, the moves, the first or second round. He was and the meeting took place. Fossey and the threats of legal action, the bids, the the Commonwealth middleweight Warren went to Magri’s shop and met deals. All a glory. That fight was a bit like champion, he was all over , he

8 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net T

AFTERMATH: Watson and Benn embrace following their famous tussle Photo: GETTY IMAGES

wore mink and he was an attraction. His shouting, Maloney passing messages and Duff’s belief in Watson was equally solid. manager, Mendy, did not have a Board Mendy winding Duff up. At about 10pm Duff bet heavy – he always said that licence, but he could promote a fight. it was decided to move the continuing when he won. “Michael will tuck up, The players were Mendy, Duff, a offers, deals, insults, compromises and throw straight punches and break Benn,” lawyer called Henri Brandman and Frank rare agreements to the Apollo. The team Duff insisted. Maloney. And some angry waiters. It were weary from negotiations, but nearly Mendy pitched a tent on Finsbury was Maloney’s job, as a licence holder, four more hours were required at the Park for the Sunday night ITV to do the talking. Duff would not talk meze table. It must have been dawn extravaganza. It was a spectacle and directly to Mendy. I had that once when when they emerged with a shock deal, a Watson tucked up, threw straight Duff had banned me and sued me and I tired gang of temporary diplomats; still punches and broke Benn. shared a two-hour car journey with him. not talking, still not shaking hands and When it was over there was even We chatted the whole time, we just had never shaking hands. more hate circulating between the to go through a fight fixture called Ron It was a great fight, never forget that. rival promoters, even less respect, but Boddy, who was driving the car. Watson was still a trade fighter, a very somehow they had delivered a fight that The negotiations started in Brandman’s good one at that point and Benn was a nobody thought would ever happen. office with several hours of Duff star. Mendy’s belief in Benn was total, You see, it can be done.

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 9 BOXING MEDIA REVIEW Examining the best and worst of the sport’s weekly coverage TYSON Photo: GETTY IMAGES COMEBACK POSTPONED

The knows, maybe they’ll both grow tired of WEBSITES the whole thing before November and just ‘exhibition’ call it off. with Roy Jones IN a slower week for boxing news, it FOX Sports announced their upcoming was the reported postponement of an Premier Boxing Champions schedule just Jnr looks exhibition bout between two middle-aged a few weeks after Showtime did the same, increasingly men that seemed to cause the biggest stir. and to say FOX got the raw end of the deal doubtful and Yes, Mike Tyson’s bizarre upcoming wouldn’t be an exaggeration. tussle with fellow legend Roy Jones Jnr The schedule centres around a there’s calls is apparently no longer taking place on November 21 PPV card headlined by for Fury- September 12, according to The Ring and Errol Spence vs Danny Garcia. It’s a good The Athletic. fight, but it baffles me how it’s on PPV, Wilder III to The Ring first broke the news with particularly when you consider be scrapped, sources claiming Tyson’s team requested vs Deontay Wilder III – which would also George the postponement to “maximise revenue,” be a FOX PPV – is being targeted for the writes and Jones agreed. The new date for the following month. Gigney eight-rounder, according Other fights on the to The Ring, is November schedule include Shawn 28. It remains unclear ‘THE Porter vs Sebastian why this new date would Formella and Erislandy help them generate OBJECTIVE Lara vs Greg Vendetti. more money, though it IS TO GET Like I said; raw end of the does mean they won’t deal. FOX also confirmed potentially be clashing MAYORGA two cards later in the with Canelo Alvarez’ year – one on Boxing Day not named Julio Cesar Chavez Jnr are next fight (mooted for AWAY FROM – which, as of yet, have no rarely caught for recreational drugs, but September 12) or a UFC DRUGS’ fights booked. Always a the changes signal a willingness from card on the same night. good sign. WADA to adapt to the times. Coronavirus lockdown The World Anti-Doping In related news, Jarrell Miller has seen measures may also have eased by that Agency (WADA) have made some changes his temporary suspension extended by point to allow some fans to attend, though and they won’t issue long suspensions for the Nevada State Athletic Commission. that doesn’t seem likely in the US. athletes testing positive for recreational It wasn’t made clear just when his The Ring report also detailed how drugs out of competition. Rather than suspension is extended until, but let’s hope complications have arisen around drug being banned for two years, those athletes it’s a significant amount of time – or, better testing – which will now be administered will now be banned for one to three yet, indefinitely. by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association months, according to Reuters. If an athlete In more sombre related news, EFE (VADA) – and over how the bout will be agrees to enrol in a rehabilitation program reported that former two-weight regulated to prevent it from becoming the ban is reduced to one month. world champion Ricardo Mayorga has anything more than a glorified sparring The changes will come into effect next agreed to enter a rehabilitation centre session. Jones himself has expressed year and will apparently allow WADA to to overcome his addiction to alcohol concerns over what he should do if Tyson give more focus to catching athletes who and drugs. There have been worrying decides to go all out. use performance enhancing drugs. reports that Mayorga, 46, has been seen Whatever the case, it gives us longer to The changes themselves aren’t likely to stumbling around the streets of Managua, continue focusing on real fights and who have a major effect on boxing, as fighters his hometown, a shell of his former self.

10 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net CHANGE OF PLAN: Tyson’s return to the ring will not take place in September

Former champion Rosendo Alvarez has to February of next year if lockdown Povetkin in just over a week. spearheaded the campaign to get Mayorga measures have not eased enough by To an extent, Hearn has a point; other help, telling EFE: “The objective is to get then. big fights are set to take place amid the him away from drugs, away from his vices Hearn, speaking to IFL, said: “If [Arum] pandemic and there’s no clear reason and away from bad company.” does [postpone the fight], then I think – beside a desire to make more money – We very much hope Mayorga gets the that fight should be cancelled. that Fury-Wilder III couldn’t also happen help he needs and is able to live a healthy “I think that should be in December. and happy life. enforced immediately as the mandatory However, to call for the fight to be for Tyson Fury. We’ve already got a cancelled is obviously extreme. The WBC deadline of the end of February, why have already reaffirmed that the winner YOUTUBE can’t they do the fight? of the bout must face Whyte in their next “Yes, we know there’s a pandemic, but fight, or risk losing the belt. In the latest edition of ‘’s [Anthony] Joshua’s fighting. All the other In a separate interview with IFL, Hearn demands’, the innovative promoter is major fights are gonna take place so I revealed that he and rival promoter Frank calling for Fury-Wilder III to be scrapped. don’t see how that’s even an argument.” Warren recently spoke on the phone for Well, if certain conditions arise, that is. For context, the WBC have put the first time after the latter left Hearn Hearn was reacting to comments a February deadline on the WBC a voicemail. Apparently, all they agreed promoter Bob Arum made to SiriusXM, heavyweight champion facing mandatory was to hold proper talks once Hearn’s claiming that the planned December 19 challenger Whyte, who has been waiting ‘Fight Camp’ has concluded, but it’s still date for the fight may need to be pushed for over 1,000 days and faces Alexander something.

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 11 Highlighting the best NEWS AND OPINION of the week’s stories WWW.BOXINGNEWSONLINE.NET Just seventeen Puerto Rican HO’D be a teenager? the hard work that I put in. My signing innocent circumstances. Attempting to figure with Top Rank helped me with that.” “The day that they announced the starlet Xander out your place in In March of last year Zayas made signing I was actually on a trip with the Zayas talks to the chaotic and headlines as the youngest fighter ever school!” he told Boxing News. “I’m eating Phil Rogers W confusing world of to sign with Bob Arum’s my lunch and I did not adulthood has never promotional powerhouse expect it. One of my about his life been easy. It’s no when he put pen to ‘I’M NOT friends said, ‘Hey Xander, wonder so many of us veer off down the paper and turned pro TRYING TO BE you got signed!’ I didn’t and future as wrong path, lost in a search for identity at just 16 years of age. know what he meant. he makes his and meaning. Having captured 11 ARROGANT, Then he showed me, How then does a 17-year-old enter national titles as an and everyone started way in the into prize fighting with such an air of amateur, competition for I REALLY DO clapping!” professional certitude, brimming with the wisdom of his signature had been BELIEVE IN The self-assured ranks as a an old-timer, and with a blueprint for his understandably fierce. teenager cuts a career already mapped out? Convincing his family of MY SKILLS’ contrasting figure to teenager “I believe in myself a lot,” declared his intentions was a long the timid child who first Puerto Rico’s teenage sensation, Xander process, their blessing a tiptoed nervously into his Zayas. requirement due to his age. When news local gym. At just six years old, Zayas was “I’m not trying to be arrogant, I really of Top Rank’s latest acquisition was finally tormented by neighbourhood bullies, do believe in the skills that I possess and made public Zayas received it in uniquely prompting his family to take action. Photo: MIKEY WILLIAMS/TOP RANK

HOT PROPERTY: Zayas signs on the dotted line with Arum’s Top Rank

12 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net “My mum decided to put me into boxing just to learn how to defend myself. When I first walked in I was like, “What is this? What am I getting myself into?” But the first day I started hitting the bag my coach told my mother: ‘Hey, this kid has talent. He’s gonna be something special’.” His love of boxing began the moment he threw his first , though his conviction was tested by the financial hardship his community was facing at the time. “We didn’t have access to everything we have here in the US. I used to spar without a head guard because they didn’t have one in the gym. My gloves were all busted up, we couldn’t get new gloves. It’s a humble life but very hardworking and we push ourselves to the limit.” Zayas’ first fight quickly followed and the six-year-old’s bout took place in front of none other than the great Felix Trinidad. It was an experience to savour “I’ve been sparring pros since I was 14 right place to dictate what you want to MATURE: as the youngster saw the adoration that years old,” he declares. “They never take do inside the ring.” Zayas has an old head on young surrounded a local legend. The fights it easy on me but I never take it easy on With Zayas’ fifth professional contest shoulders then came thick and fast as he honed them. We work hard, we push each other. scheduled to take place on September his skillset on an unforgiving circuit. But I’ve never been scared or intimidated 4, the eve of his 18th birthday, he knows Zayas wasn’t just boxing, he was winning. by someone older than me in sparring that many fight fans will be keen to see His first national title came before his who’s trying to take my head off. I what the prospect has to offer. Zayas 20th fight. At 11 he and his family moved started working with them early because thrives on such expectancy. to Florida, but still the victories mounted it shows me that if I can hang in there “I want to be a great boxer, not just up. with guys older than me by 10 years, for Puerto Rico but for the whole world,” “Once I won I knew that I had or someone bigger than me, then I can he concluded. “I want to be a champion something special. I just had to keep hang in there with someone my weight in multiple divisions. I want to be an working hard, stay focused, and dream and my age. It’s all about what you put in example to young kids and an inspiration big. I said, “I want this and I’m gonna go your mind, it’s all about the mind games. for every person that follows me and get it.’” If you know that you’re serious and you looks up to me. I just want to be the best Gold medals in the 2017 and 2018 work hard your mind should be in the that I can be each and every day.” US National Championships followed, though any hopes of Olympic glory were cut short when a new age requirement of 19 meant he’d have had to wait until 2024 to fulfil that dream. With THE PODCAST IS BACK! his amateur dream lying dormant, BN , and Top Rank, came calling. The Opening Bell returned last week and there will be a new episode every Thursday “They’ve built the best boxers in history,” gushed Zayas. “I’ve got a BACK in 2017, for reasons beyond our control, the both promotional powerhouses involved. I’d want great team around me, with great Boxing News podcast, The Opening Bell, ceased BT engaging with their huge EE database and Sky matchmakers. I’m really thankful to all production. Getting it up and running again has been pumping this out on Sky Sports News. That will of them. It’s been a great journey and hovering at the top of the priority list ever since. Last improve the quality of the events and potentially the I know that it’s gonna continue.” week, we managed to bring it back and it is already in money we can put on the table for the fighters.” Thus far the transition into the paid the Apple charts. Hosted by Alex Steedman alongside Warren admitted there has been “tit for tat” ranks has looked seamless, with three BN editor, Matt Christie, the content will be focused between the promoters in the past but hoped the two of his four wins coming by way of on the biggest talking points each week including superpowers could find a way to work together. We stoppage. The person least surprised by interviews with key players. examined the likelihood of that happening, reviewed such rapid development is, of course, Queensberry’s George Warren was the first guest. the recent action, looked ahead to upcoming shows the Puerto Rican youngster himself, who He spoke in detail about the proposal made to rivals while also finding time to talk to Colin Hart about points to the quality of the sparring he’s Matchroom last week and the potential collaboration Muhammad Ali for This Week In History. experienced since turning pro with the between BT Sport and Sky Sports. The Opening Bell – produced by Darren Rees – is likes of Ivan Baranchyk and Daniyar “The distribution point is really simple,” Warren available and completely free from all major podcast Yeleussinov. said. “I would want both broadcasters involved and providers, or direct from our website, every Thursday.

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 13 ACTION

★★★★★ OUTSTANDING ★★★★ GOOD ★★★ FAIR ★★ DISAPPOINTING ★ RUBBISH

Reporters’ star ratings for main events and undercards are based on in-ring entertainment, competitiveness and whether overall expectation was met

Photos: MARK ROBINSON/MATCHROOM

BLOOD AND GUTS: Harper and Jonas go all out in the quest for victory

Sensational scrap

Harper and BRENTWOOD to the occasion. Jonas, a skilled 2012 weapon throughout. In the sixth she Olympian, started well, taking the centre landed another fast, heavy southpaw AUGUST 7 Jonas fight of the ring and occupying Harper with , jolting Harper, only for the to a split her southpaw . But it was her champion to charge back ★★★★★ MAIN EVENT left cross that scored heavily, TALKING in, seeking to redress the draw in WBC ★★★★★ UNDERCARD landing to the body with POINT balance. The weight of some heft. those assaults seemed ONE bonus of this new world is title fight, FTER a superb 10 But Harper opened to tire Jonas as the two being able to listen to the advice writes John rounds, Terri Harper up a bad cut alongside from the corners. Joe Gallagher, fought their way into the Dennen and Natasha Jonas’ right eye. She Jonas’ trainer, drew new energy second half of the bout. Jonas’ WBC super- renewed her attack with from Jonas after seven rounds But Jonas broke A featherweight title gusto. Harper drilled by telling her she needed to through in the eighth fight ended in a Jonas with a straight win the last three. round, a straight one-two split draw on Friday combination. Denaby’s set up a shuddering right night (August 7) at Matchroom’s HQ in Harper powered forward, . Harper was badly shaken Brentwood. chopping at Jonas with a high volume but she held on to her footing. It only The first all-British women’s world title of punches. became apparent later how crucial a fight, headlining on Sky Sports, lived up Nastasha’s left remained a potent knockdown would have been.

14 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net ’s Jonas connected with the cleaner, heavier shots, connecting with ONE-SIDED: hooks off her right and left hands even as Fowler pounds an she moved out. But Harper dug in as she overmatched battled back on to the front foot. Harper The judges did not find a winner. Ian John-Lewis scored 96-94 for Harper, John Lathem 96-95 for Jonas and Mark Lyson scored 95-95. The split draw means Harper retains her WBC super-featherweight title. It was a decision that could easily have gone Jonas’ way, Boxing News (watching remotely) had Jonas two rounds up, but this was a close, ferociously contested fight. “I had myself one or two up but again history in the making and it was an honour to share it with [Terri Harper]. She’s going to be in the game a lot longer than I am but she made a few statements and I had to prove some of them statements wrong, not only to her but to myself as well,” Jonas said afterwards. “I thought I put on a good performance tonight. I’m just gutted I’m not coming home with the belt.” The fight does mark a significant moment in the development of professional women’s boxing. There are exciting fights to be made, which aren’t reliant on Olympic gold medallists like and Claressa Shields. Harper has come through and at just 23 years old she will continue to improve. Jonas has proved herself world class. They need to rematch but there’s a unification with Ewa Brodnicka, the WBO titlist, waiting to be made. America has rising star however have been stopped two rounds Harper throughout the early going. FULL Mikaela Mayer in the wings, Britain’s has earlier. In the fourth Fowler stunned The referee thought Fowler’s attacks to RESULTS another quality contender in Chantelle Harper, a double jab setting up an the body were drifting low. He deducted Cameron. Cherelle Brown up at super- excellent right cross. The Liverpudlian a point in the second and sternly warned Terri Harper lightweight merits a breakthrough. There hammered Harper along the ropes, the Fowler after giving Tewkesbury’s Harper (129¼lbs), 10-0-1 are even more talents still waiting for the damage Adam was taking quite clear. another break to recover from a low blow (5), d pts 10 Natasha Tokyo Olympics to come round before Harper appealed for another round. That in the sixth. But those blips aside, Fowler Jonas (129lbs), 9-1-1 potentially launching professional careers was a request which should not have been had performed well. (7); Anthony Fowler after that. You might not have heard of granted. Bournemouth’s Chris Billam- (155½lbs), 13-1 Caroline Dubois yet. You will. Fowler, in his second bout with new Smith defended his Commonwealth (10), w rsf 7 Adam Harper On the undercard Anthony Fowler trainer Shane McGuigan, looked relaxed, title with fearsome power. (156¾lbs), Chris Billam handed Adam Harper a sustained particularly sharp in the opening two Before the first round was out, chopping 9-2; Smith (199¾lbs), 11-1 beating, which referee Ian John-Lewis rounds here. He held his lead left low and left hooks, virtually from within a clinch, (10), w rsf 2 Nathan halted at 1-34 of the seventh. It should loose, but quick, hard thumped into saw Nathan Thorley sink to the canvas. Thorley (199¾lbs), Heavy rights forced Thorley down again 14-1 (6); Hopey Price in the second round. The Welshman (126½lbs), 3-0 (1), w recovered himself momentarily, slugging pts 6 Johnny Phillips IMPRESSIVE: (129¼), 5-5 (2). Billam-Smith Billam-Smith with a one-two. He fired celebrates quick back, standing with the champion, only for and exciting win Billam-Smith to unleash a vicious curving right that floored Thorley. Badly hurt, Nathan had to be stopped by referee Mark Lyson at 2-05 of the second. Johnny Philips charged headlong into Leeds prospect Hopey Price, but piled into clinches rather than landing with any great effect. Opening space up between them, Price drilled him with long combinations and took a 60-54 points win over the Sandhurst man for referee John- Lewis after six rounds.

THE VERDICT A main event so good they should do it again.

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 15 Previewing the best upcoming fights PREVIEWS around the world

★★★★★ OUTSTANDING ★★★★ GOOD ★★★ FAIR ★★ DISAPPOINTING ★ RUBBISH

The star ratings indicate how well the writer believes the fighters match up, the fight(s)’ contextual significance, and how good the fight(s) will be WELBO AND CASH

Photos: GETTY IMAGES

COMMONWEALTH CHAMP: Cash puts his title on the line for the second time

TALE OF THE TAPE

FELIX CASH JASON WELBORN @FelixCashboxer @welborn12 Mar 31, 1993/27 DOB/AGE May 9, 1986/34 ★★★★★ MAIN EVENT Cullen stood 6ft 3ins tall, was spirited and had the crowd behind him. Cash Wokingham HOMETOWN Tividale ★★★★★ UNDERCARD Another beat him with the weight and quality of English NATIONALITY English his punches, his fitness and his defence. 12-0 (8) RECORD 24-8 (7) tasty- Orthodox HE Ted Cheeseman- The 27-year-old from Wokingham, Jun 25, 2016/23 DEBUT/AGE Dec 12, 2005/19 looking Sam Eggington war Berks, slipped and slid away from 67 KO PERCENTAGE 22 encounter may be topped for punches on the inside and when he was WWWWW LAST FIVE FIGHTS LLWWW action when Eddie caught, he took the punches well and 2 SCHEDULED 12-ROUNDERS 6 atop the T Hearn promotes in fired back. the back garden of Cash’s punches – especially the right latest his family’s Essex hand – were more damaging. He had for the IBF and WBA belts at 154lbs Matchroom mansion again on Friday (August 14). Cullen down inside the opening minute, on the Tyson Fury-Deontay Wilder I In the top-of-the-bill fight, Felix again late in the seventh and the local undercard in Los Angeles in December Fight Camp, Cash defends his Commonwealth ticket-seller was out on his feet in the 2018 and while it’s stretching it to say middleweight championship against next, leading to referee Howard Foster’s the fight was competitive, there were writes Jason Welborn and it’s a 12-round clash intervention. signs Welborn was making the champion Matt Bozeat that should entertain viewers on Sky Now 34, Welborn has the edge in uncomfortable – until Hurd’s punches Sports and DAZN. experience – he has completed 12 rounds strayed low. The Board named Welborn’s British twice, Cash has only been beyond eight That set up a fourth-round body title win over Tommy Langford in their rounds once – and though the challenger shot and there was a similar first fight as the best seen in a British ring has had back-to-back stoppage losses, ending when Welborn met Metcalf in 2018 and last time out, Cash came they were against good opposition in for the vacant Commonwealth super- through a scorching scrap with Jack Jarrett Hurd (22-0) and James Metcalf title in Leeds last June. Cullen (17-1) in in November (19-0). Metcalf was docked a point for low to keep his Commonwealth belt. Welborn got that unlikely shot at Hurd blows moments before finishing the fight

16 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net with a body shot in the eighth. In fairness, Metcalf did appear to be winning that fight with his jab. Welborn is remembered for bursting the bubble of Marcus Morrison (14-0) in March 2017, putting it on the untested Mancunian for round after round and winning on points over 10. Perhaps he can do the same on Friday night? Welborn has the better names on his record and though Frankie Gavin and Liam Smith both beat him in British title clashes, he was in both fights. Cash hasn’t boxed anywhere near that level, but he is the younger, bigger man in this fight and he has impressed. The Tony Sims-trained box-puncher has four wins inside a round since turning over after an 80-bout amateur career – including the demolition of Rasheed Abolaji (11-4-1) at last February that brought him the vacant Commonwealth title. The Nigerian was over from a stiff jab IN ACTION: and then a right hand decked him and Welborn [right] scraps with left him too dizzy to find his feet again. Langford in their Welborn is certain to put up more rematch [above], resistance than that. Asked to name his while Barrett strengths before he challenged Hurd, attacks McCorry [left] Welbon said: “Hardness and self-belief,” but the question is, how much does he have left? In the Cullen fight, Cash showed that, at this level, he can have a war without taking too much punishment and he can beat Welborn on points – after a really good fight. Also on the show, Zelfa Barrett, the Commonwealth super-featherweight champion, makes his debut under the Matchroom banner, taking on Irish southpaw (12-0) over 12. Barrett produced a career-best performance last time out, dropping As a pro, Donovan has fought points wins over Konrad Stempkowski willing Scot Jordan McCorry (18-6-1) journeymen, with the exception of (9-1) and Craig O’Brien (11-1), possibly three times for a ninth-round stoppage, Stephen McAfee (5-0-1), who he making hard work of the latter. a result that compares well with dispatched with a third-round body shot Mansouri is a former English champion contemporaries Sam Bowen and Archie for the vacant Irish title last March. at 154lbs who twice pulled out of British Sharp. Barrett, a good size for the weight and title challenges, to Liam Smith and Liam The 27-year-old, trained by uncle Pat good on his feet, has the Williams, through injury. Barrett, has won all four since a majority look of an improving The 31-year-old from points loss to hard-as-nails Scottish fighter and he could ‘MY hasn’t been southpaw Ronnie Clark (20-4-2) in prove to be too sharp for BIGGEST seen in a British ring since February 2018. Donovan. 2017 when he outpointed Barrett showed a lot of spirit at York Barrett on points is STRENGTHS? Jordan Grannum over six Hall that night to get off the deck in the the pick. in . sixth after being dropped heavily – and The 154lb division HARDNESS He’s been fighting then to ask for a rematch that didn’t is possibly the most in Spain and last time happen due to Clark’s health problems. talked about in domestic AND SELF- out, Rotterdam, where In Donovan, Barrett goes in with boxing following the Stephen Danyo (16-3-3) another left-hander. Cheeseman-Eggington BELIEF’ outpointed him over 12 The 35-year-old from Athy has won punch-up two weeks ago rounds. Irish honours at 126lbs since turning pro and the spotlight next falls on Kieron It takes a good fighter to beat just before his 31st birthday following a Conway and Nav Mansouri when they Mansouri – and Conway is good enough lengthy amateur career that included a meet over 10 rounds. to beat him on points. win over Domenico Valentino in March Northampton’s Conway (14-1-1) held 2010, just six months after the Italian had Cheeseman to a split draw – BN had him THE VERDICT Cash and Welborn won the World Championships. a point up – and since then, he’s had should combine for an exciting fight.

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 17 PREVIEWS Late Trayn Darren ★★★★★ MAIN EVENT went into that fight with a fractured left once since an eight-round points loss to hand and he then broke his right hand in former European super-featherweight UNDERCARD Traynor ★★★★★ the seventh round. champion Juli Giner in Barcelona in June Days before Christmas, he underwent 2018 and only 19 times in total since steps in at ARL FRAMPTON surgery to have seven screws and a plate turning over nine years ago. short notice wants his name at the inserted in his left hand and a metal gauze He did buzz Ryan Walsh briefly in a top of the list when in his right. challenge for the British featherweight but has huge the conversation The plan was then for Frampton to championship in January, 2016 before task ahead C turns to Ireland’s challenge WBO super-featherweight being stopped in five and , greatest ever boxer. champion Jamel Herring in home city one of the bigger pound-for-pound as he looks To be sure of that, Belfast on June 13 – before COVID-19. punchers on the domestic scene, also the 33-year-old believes he needs a world Herring was subsequently found to have stopped Traynor, inside three rounds. to derail the title at a third weight and it’s that thought the symptoms before being given the all “Trayn Wreck” as he calls himself, comeback of that has kept him going through his recent clear to defend against Jonathan Oquendo has been more successful at Scottish misfortunes. on September 5, while Frampton has had Area level, winning national honours at Carl First, there was the freak accident that another hiccup ahead of his return to featherweight, lightweight and super- Frampton, left him with a broken fifth metacarpal action this weekend. lightweight. in his left hand days before he was Until last week, he was fighting Vahram Traynor mixed in good company as an writes Matt set to fight Emmanuel Dominguez in Vardanyan at the BT Sport Studios on amateur. In the 2007 EU championships, Bozeat Philadelphia 12 months ago. Saturday night (August 15), but the Latvian he lost on points to Yakup Kilic and the Frampton put that that behind was unable to get a Visa and in steps Turk won bronze at the 2008 Beijing him to post what appeared to be a Darren Traynor, a 33-year-old from Olympics, losing in the semi finals to Vasyl straightforward 10-round points win over Aberdeen who’s won Scottish honours Lomachenko. Tyler McCreary last November, his first at three weights and challenged for the Still, his boxing CV doesn’t compare to fight for nearly a year. British featherweight title in his 16-3 Frampton’s, who on the evidence of the The better boxer in every department career. McCreary fight still has plenty left. that night, Frampton later revealed he Traynor hasn’t been active, fighting only Frampton was as sharp as could have Photos: GETTY IMAGES

ACCOMPLISHED: Frampton is a long-time world class operator

16 l BOXING NEWS l JULY 23, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net been expected to be that night, given he mostly, he outboxed the Russian. to pay off. The right hand the Russian had been out for almost a year since the Conlan spent most of the fight as a shipped seem to take something out of loss to Josh Warrington. southpaw and it seems that when he him. The story of the McCreary 10-rounder boxes as a left hander he’s more slippery Nikitin found what other opponents was that Frampton was simply too good in and it’s when he boxes orthodox that he have found. That it’s hard to land a every department for the 26-year-old from looks for power punches and gets caught punch on Conlan and even harder to Toledo, Ohio. more often. land two or three. left hander McCreary discovered that advantages The Nikitin plan was to pressure Conlan Jason Cunningham rocked him onto his of youth (six years), height and when he got the heels in the fourth round of their fight in (four inches) and reach Irishman where he wanted December, 2018 after beating him to the (11 ½ inches) count for TRAYNOR him, put everything into punch with a southpaw right hook. nothing when there are MIXED every punch. But it seemed “He was smart and crafty after I caught levels between the fighters. that every time he thought him,” remembered Cunningham. “I tried to McCreary had never IN GOOD he had Conlan pinned jump on him, but he rode it out.” fought anywhere near COMPANY down, he either grabbed Takoucht isn’t known as a puncher – world level and there were or found an escape route, 13 early wins on the record – and the moments when it seemed AS AN often adding to the 34-year-old looks to have a twitchy jab- he was wishing the fight Russian’s frustration by and-counter style. away as he checked the AMATEUR clipping him with a check He hadn’t been stopped until clock and took in deep right hook on the way out. Warrington set about him, made him breaths. He couldn’t land his jab, couldn’t The only time Conlan took any engage and blasted him to the floor twice. stop Frampton getting close – and the meaningful shots was when he gave That’s not the Conlan way. He can box body punches really hurt. McCreary was Nikitin chances to hit him in that eighth his way to a wide points win. down in the sixth and ninth rounds. round by standing in front of him and The likelihood is Frampton’s career punching with him. THE VERDICT Frampton needs rounds peaked when he beat Leo Santa Cruz in The gamble Conlan took by trading with but is Traynor really good enough to their first fight in July, 2016, though the Nikitin cost him that cut, but appeared sharpen up the former champ? win over Nonito Donaire now looks even better given that “The Filipino Flash” went on to test Naoya Inoue in 2019’s Fight of the Year, albeit down at bantamweight. Frampton hasn’t seen his name in the pound-for-pound lists for a while, but he Chasing Katie remains a top operator, surely way too good for Traynor. Providing complacency The prize for the winner of Braekhus-McCaskill could be a huge fight with aylorT doesn’t set in, or he’s drawn into an ugly dog fight, he should stop the Scot around the halfway point. CECILIA BRAEKHUS has waited a long, long time for a truly WBO super-bantamweight champion defining fight. She’s 36-0 (9), she has unified titles, even Angelo Leo has been on Michael achieving the impossible by managing to keep the WBC, WBA, Conlan’s radar since the Irishman decided IBF and WBO happy at welterweight as the kingpin with each to drop down to 122lbs. organisation since 2016. Undisputed she might be, but there’s still a feeling that something is missing from the Norwegian’s The 28 year old meets French southpaw career. Sofiane Takoucht (35-4-1) over 10 in On Saturday night, atop a Matchroom USA bill in Tulsa, Stratford. Oklahoma, she takes on Chicago’s Jessica McCaskill, 8-2 (3), Fans here will remember Warrington who is rising up from super-lightweight, where she holds the overwhelming Takoucht in a couple WBC and WBA belts. She is three years younger than Braekhus of rounds in Leeds last October in a at 35, arguably fresher, but is yet to campaign at welterweight defence of his IBF featherweight title, the and without question lacks the experience of her rival. Yet she Frenchman’s last fight. remains a sizeable banana skin under Braekhus’ feet. Conlan’s form is rather better. Both are targeting showdowns with Katie Taylor. For Braekhus, Last December, he avenged the a fight against Taylor would be the challenge she’s craved for controversial loss to Vladimir Nikitin in the most of her career. For McCaskill, it would represent the chance to 2012 London Olympics (Nikitin also beat reverse a 10-round points loss to Taylor in 2017. him in 2013 World Championship) with McCaskill has improved since then, defeating Erica Anabella a comprehensive 10-round points win at Frias twice in bouts that sandwiched another 10-round points win Madison Square Garden. over Anahai Ester Sanchez. She shouldn’t be written off but the The Adam Booth-trained Conlan (13-0) gulf in class between McCaskill and the sharp-shooting Braekhus ended the fight cut on his right eyebrow. appears too large. The favourite, after all, has barely lost a round That wound appeared in the last minute of at any point in her career much less a fight. She’s not one to take the eighth during a rare exchange. Conlan her eye off the ball. She can triumph on points before watching got the better of it – smashing a right hand Taylor’s rematch with Delfine Persoon (far harder to predict) off Nikitin’s jaw that stiffened his legs – but through her fingers the following weekend.

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 19 END GAME

Carl Frampton tells John Dennen how he plans to close out his career and the final accomplishment he needs to achieve

Photo: MARK ROBINSON/GETTY IMAGES

ow has it been every second weekend. An overnight boat preparing for a fight from Belfast to Birkenhead. It’s not ideal but in lockdown? How that was my safest option to not pick up the different has this virus. I don’t want to pull out of a fight. So H training camp been that’s the issue. I’ve been training so hard. from what you’d Have you had any issues with sparring normally do? partners and getting people in? It hasn’t been that We’ve done a lot of in house sparring. I’ve different if I’m being honest. I suppose, as done a lot of skills sparring. Loads of rounds is happening everywhere, people are a bit of skills sparring with Jack Catterall and Aqib more relaxed now than they were at the Fiaz. Kind of like technical stuff, so not open, very start. We’re still wiping our hands and not free sparring. I’ve got a kid called Reece constantly washing hands, temperature Mould in. He’s the English champion. checks for people coming into the gym. The So I’ve done less rounds of free, open place getting cleaned down with antiseptic sparring but I feel it’s benefited me. Because wipes and sprays. The big difference for me going on performance from my last spar with was not getting home every weekend. I used Reece Mould, it’s probably the best that I’ve to fly home every Friday, but I haven’t been sparred in a number of years. So I think less able to do that and I’ve been on the boat is probably more. I know how to fight.

20 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 21 FINE CAREER: But Frampton isn’t quite finished yet Photo: GETTY IMAGES

22 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net I genuinely think that’s the way forward. It’s champion. A defence in Belfast would be nice think that when I’m fighting these big guys. almost like accidental. We were doing that as well then. Who knows? There’s not too How frustrating it is when I’m landing my jab when we couldn’t getting sparring in and many after that. But we’ll see. I’m just taking on them and they can’t get out of the road of Jack’s probably too big for me to do open it fight by fight. At this stage of my career, it. And I would look to do that against Herring. sparring with. It seems to have worked so that’s all I can do. How difficult has it been these past few that’s one positive that we will be taking out The atmosphere at your fights in Belfast days when you’ve had your expected of this whole pandemic. is something else, there’s little like that opponent (Vahram Vardanyan) fall out and When lockdown was at its most severe in boxing. Obviously your next fight is a new guy (Darren Traynor) brought in? were you just at home? without a crowd, the Herring fight would I can’t lie, it has been frustrating. But I’ve I was at home training. I’ve got a gym set make sense in America, so you must want always known that I’m doing to get a fight. up in my garage. I was able to tick over. So I one big last night in Belfast? [MTK] have had Traynor on hold now for a was in reasonable shape coming in. I’ve been Of course. I’d love to do one more in number of weeks, three or four weeks, paying over here [in Manchester] with Jamie [Moore] Belfast. But I think the Herring fight most likely him to train, foreseeing that there would be probably 10 weeks, it’s been I think a 12-week happens in America now. I think it probably an issue for this opponent, either visa issues camp so I’ve pretty much done a full camp. happens wherever we can get spectators in or a ban on Armenians coming into the UK. At the very start, I suppose everyone was a stadium first and foremost. I think that will Traynor’s probably a better fight than the same, there was a bit more fear around. dictate where the fight happens. Because Vardanyan. He’s certainly fought at a higher I think I’ve got 18 litres of disinfectant at home the promoters won’t want to lose revenue level. Vardanyan’s record looks pretty but in that I’ve not used. The missus as well, we through the gate and I always draw a decent my opinion Traynor’s a tougher fight than went out and ordered this massive industrial crowd. Even a fight with Herring on the East him and he’s a bigger guy too. fridge with a freezer and stocked it with Coast, it would do good tickets. Most likely You’ve had a few weird build ups to fights freezer food, thinking that we were not going it’s going to happen in America, but I would too, you had the guy falling over in the to be able to go shopping. It was all a bit mad like I would like one more in Belfast before shower, you versus heavy ornament. at the start but we’ve calmed down a bit now. I hang them up. They’re all going to be good chapters in the I laughed at her when she suggested the When do you think the Herring fight could book I think eventually. It’s all part of it. It’s freezer. We went out one day to try and buy happen, assuming you win on August 15? all part of the game. There have been some a freezer, we couldn’t get one so everyone I know as much as what people are saying mad ones recently. I walked into a glass door was doing it, so I started to s**t myself a bit. on social media. November is a potential at Kerry Kayes’ house last week. I gave myself Finally we got one, it was a bit more intense date that Top Rank are looking at. Someone a mouse in the head. If I had walked in a little at the start! else suggested that it would be a good chief bit faster the fight could have been off. People Everyone went mad for toilet roll more support to Wilder-Fury which apparently is wouldn’t have believed that one either. than anything else. That was strange one. pencilled in for December 19. What are the final things you want to And did isolation give you a bit of taste of I know as much as everybody else. I would complete your legacy? life without boxing and what it would be like to get it in before the end of the year. The third world title is the main thing and like in retirement? How tough a fight is Herring going to be? that is the legacy defining fight. If I didn’t fight It probably has. It was the longest I’ve The main thing is his size. He’s massive. again, when I reflect on my career I would probably spent at home since I’ve been a He’s a huge guy. But I think there’s ways to be happy that I became a two weight world professional, in between fights. It was good beat him. I think I have better feet than him. champion. But three-weight world champion, family time, something that I don’t get a lot of I think I have faster hands than him. He’s a that puts you in the Hall of Fame. That’s huge. because of what I do, because I base myself good all round fighter. I think in fights he I’m having this fight now, which isn’t a away from home… We didn’t fight to the has rounds off in the middle. I think that’s legacy defining fight, because of the current death or anything like that, there wasn’t too down to how dedicated [he has to be] and situation globally with coronavirus. Ideally I many wars. It was good to be at home. how hard it is for him to make the weight. would have like to be fighting Jamel Herring, So have you been giving thought to the I think that they all come into effect. I’m going which was meant to happen on June 13. I just end of your career? for a steak today. I’m not struggling about want big names, big fights, I’d love to unify in I like to think I’m reasonably sensible. making weight at super-featherweight, albeit a second division. That would be huge. So obviously, you have to have one eye to my next fight is going to be at lightweight Another fight that excites me is [Oscar] the future. I know that I don’t have loads of but super-featherweight will be easy as well. Valdez and he’s not a champion. I think that’s years left in this game. I’ve been speaking There’s loads of things that I can use to my a great fight and another fight that could be to different people. We’ve got this podcast advantage. But I think that his sheer size easily made. obviously. It’s a pretty new venture, but causes its own problems. But I’ve fought You’re thinking about the end game, how people seem to have liked it, and we get bigger men my whole career. Not as big as your career is going to close, how does decent feedback. So that’s something that I’m Jamel Herring but I’m used to it. that effect your drive? interested in. I’ve been doing more punditry It excites me, the prospect of that, and The motivation is the third weight world work on TV and I always get good feedback overcoming such a challenge. People will see title and my kids are my motivation as well. from that as well. So it would be nice to walk the head to head and they’ve seen us in the I don’t want to put in bad performances to get into a job with BT or Sky or someone as a ring in Las Vegas and it just looks unrealistic. laughed at or people to talk about me saying pundit. I do a lot of stuff for Five Live as well. But that excites me, overcoming such a task, I’m over the hill. There are people saying that So I’ll be hoping to do something like that in becoming a three-weight world champion. already and I suppose that’s a motivation too, the future and also just see what happens as People look at our attributes and look at I want to prove them wrong and show them well just go with the flow. It’s going to be good our physical size difference and think that that I have a lot left to give and I can become when I do eventually retire just to not have to I have to get into him and I have sit on his a world champion again. worry about boxing and have my life dictated chest. I don’t see it like that. I feel like I could There’s an argument that you could call by boxing. To spend a bit of time we’re with outbox this guy and distance control is one of me Ireland’s, ’s greatest Christine and the kids. my best attributes. ever fighter right now. There’s an argument Do you have an idea of, if not how It will be frustrating for him if he is for it. long, how many more fights you’d being outboxed by a midget. I always I think that if I win a world title in my third like to have? division I’d be happy to I want to win a world title. That’s call myself it. I would the objective. I want to have a chance I WALKED INTO A GLASS DOOR AT cement that as the against Jamel Herring. I feel like I greatest fighter ever to can win that fight. It’s going to be a come from the island tough ask but I feel like I can beat KERRY KAYES’ HOUSE LAST WEEK” of Ireland. So that’s the him, become a three-weight world motivation. bn

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 23 24 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net IN THEIR OWN WORDS

David Benavidez was a chubby teenager but sparring partners Gennady Golovkin and Kelly Pavlik recognised the talent of the future champion ‘HOW I BECAME A MAN’

INTERVIEW: CHRIS WALKER | Photo: JAYNE KAMIN-ONCEA/GETTY IMAGES

I AM really settled weather. Out of all the places I’ve lived, and school, things like that, but I always in Seattle now and believe me there’s been a lot, this is believed that boxing was so important but it hasn’t where I’ve been the happiest. to my dad that he gave everything to get always been that My father first put boxing gloves me and my brother ahead in the sport. way. For real long on me when I was three years old and I loved watching boxers as I grew up. periods in my I’ve been doing this for 20 years now. My favourite was Prince Naseem Hamed. life all my family My father wasn’t a boxer when he was It was something else the way he could did was move a young man, but he loved the sport combine being a fighter with being a around, from one place to the next, and he was desperate for me and my showman, and I learnt from Hamed that because my dad wanted the best for me brother to be fighters. That was always boxing has more layers than just being a and my brother, Jose. a big dream for him and you could tell fighter. There was a duty to entertain and My early life was spent in a place how proud he was whenever me or my put on a display and I don’t think anyone called Phoenix in Arizona, but everyday brother achieved something in the sport. pulled that off quite like Hamed. All I did felt the same when I was living there. The My dad took the family everywhere when was watch boxing and I was impressed by weather was always hot and the coolest Jose – now a welterweight contender – many fighters, but Hamed was the one day would still be around 75 degrees was fighting in tournaments throughout that stood out for me. so when you live in somewhere like the country because boxing became the Another fighter I loved growing up was Seattle then you appreciate the variety in family business in a way. There were jobs Marco Antonio Barrera but whenever

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 25 IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Photos: GETTY IMAGES I watch his fight with Hamed, even now, sparring when I was still a kid learning I’m getting angry with him because I was one way to boost my confidence. loved Hamed so much and wanted him My amateur career was nowhere near to win! There’s a documentary on that the level of my brother’s, but I made sure fight on YouTube where it reveals Hamed that I was always learning in the gym and isn’t putting it all into training. There’s made every single sparring session count. a bit in the documentary where they Can you imagine being an overweight interview Emanuel Steward and he’s so teenager sparring top fighters in honest about Hamed’s poor preparation. California like Kelly Pavlik, Gennady As a teenager, I weighed around Golovkin and Peter Quillin? That was 260lbs at one point, but because of my some crazy s**t and I still can’t believe experience going everywhere with my how blessed I am to be able to have such dad and spending so much time in gyms, an experience like that. I could look after myself against bigger These weren’t contenders or guys guys. The sparring I got as a young man just playing with boxing, this was as real growing up in this sport was going to as it gets, they were champions, and it take me a lot further than any school showed me at such a young age what education could. was going to be required if I wanted to I decided to make boxing the most get to the top and make my dad proud. important thing in my life the way my You can’t begin to explain how valuable dad and brother had. School just wasn’t those sessions were to me back then for me. I was bright, but there was just and even today when I look how far I’ve too much there that didn’t interest me come. and I believed I had a great chance of Pavlik was such a good fighter. The way becoming a success in boxing. he fought in his biggest fights was exactly The gym was always where I’d rather what he was like in the gym. He was a be instead of school. It’s hard putting tough guy who loved to fight and he had into words the type of experience I power in both hands. His jab made you picked up when on the road with my realise the level he was at immediately. family. California was a special place for Golovkin was another tough fighter me growing up. I was big for a young who knew how to punch and the same kid, but I could fight, and the amount of can be said about “Kid Chocolate.” world champions that would use me for These were world champions in a

DOMINANT: Benavidez widely outscores Gavril in their 2018 return

26 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net hard division who were seen as punchers I finally got that chance to be world and I was there with them, so desperate champion in 2017 when I beat Ronald ON THE to prove myself. I’d like to think that I Gavril on points in a tough fight. Since LOOKOUT: impressed them back then and hopefully winning the WBC title, I’ve not looked Benavidez is eager to take they’re all happy that I went on to do back. on the best alright for myself. Being world champion has allowed possible Turning professional with my dad in me to take the rewards from what has opposition my corner still makes me smile today. I been virtually a lifetime in boxing and the was 16 when I went to the pros so I had sacrifices made by myself and my family to fight across the border in Mexico like have all been worth it so far. a few young American I’m still a young fighter fighters have done in the who’s learning and at 23 past. Fighting grown men ‘I WANT my best years are most as a 16-year-old made definitely ahead of me. me feel bigger and older PEOPLE TO I have a young son who than the age I really was, FALL OVER is due to be born on but it was those times I September 4 and that had spent in the gym with THEMSELVES is going to be another great fighters helped me reason for me to give my overcome the guys down TO SAY I’M all to this sport. in Mexico and there was THE BEST’ My motivation has never a time where it felt always been to be the like I was a boy going in best and to make my with men. family so proud of me. You see the way I felt close to a world title around people have fallen over themselves in 2016 or 2017 and it was at a time when the past to recognise the likes of Floyd 168 was deep with great fighters. James Mayweather, Oscar De Lay Hoya and DeGale and Badou Jack had a great fight Manny Pacquiao as the best fighters in in New York. boxing? That’s what I want. There was the likes of myself and Being world champion has been my Callum Smith right behind trying to proudest moment as a fighter, but I want become world champions and put to take on all-comers until people say our own marker down on the division. that I’m the best fighter in the sport. The Brit pack Benavidez on British super-middleweights

CALLUM SMITH I actually love him as a fighter and that’s the biggest praise I can give him at this moment. His rise was very impressive and the way he looked after himself in that World Series tournament was something that really stood out. He was favoured to do well in that, but I don’t think anyone could’ve predicted the way he went through . Smith can fight several way and his inside stuff is so good for such a tall guy. Me and Smith is the best fight in the division right now and I’d love the opportunity to prove that I’m number one against him.

BILLY JOE SAUNDERS Saunders is something of a veteran in boxing these days so that means he’s done a lot and he’s seen a lot. A fighter like that is always going to be a dangerous opponent. He seems like he’s all in for a fight with Canelo, but that could be any fighter from middleweight to light-heavy so who knows what’s going to happen there? If it’s a fight that can be made then I’d certainly like the opportunity to take the challenge on.

CHRIS EUBANK JNR There’s some losses on the record of Chris Eubank Jnr, but he’s a fighter who always backs himself so he’ll always be in fights until the very end because he’s 100mph. It feels like Eubank Jnr has been around the top level a long time so he’d have no problem at all mixing it with the champions and top guys at 168 if he decides to make the move here full time. He’s one of a number of top fighters in Britain at the moment and going over there to fight any of them is alright by me.

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 27 HARRY ★SIMON★ TALKS TO

THE

NTED HAUNTED

Harry Simon is still unbeaten but he’s no longer the man he was. Everything changed when the car he was driving in 2002 killed a baby and two other passengers. He talks to John Evans

28 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net UNSPLASH.COM/@EMILIANOBAR Photo:

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 29 ONE thing you should know,” there Already the WBO super-welterweight champion, Simon is a weight to Harry Simon’s voice. walked away from the wreckage physically, mentally and “Sometimes people ask me, ‘How are legally unscathed and easily defeated the world class Hassan you, Champ?’ and I think to myself, Cherifi just three months later. The following year he beat ‘Champ? Where is that boy? I want to Armand Kranjc for the WBO middleweight belt. see that boy again.’ I have to remind Simon was 27, an unbeaten two-weight titlist and he and myself that it’s me. I want to know what his entourage seemingly had the run of Walvis Bay. He must happened to him. I tell my children this have felt invincible. and I always break down when I tell them what happened. “Namibia is such a small country. Almost every second When people say they want to see the champ I look at myself person knows me. I always say that even an unknown baby in the mirror and tell myself ‘Harry, come on. This is still you, knows me. They do have big respect for me,” he said. man’.” “There are lots of people like soccer players and all that Simon will always be ‘Champ.’ It is a title fighters proudly but there are only two heroes here. They don’t get the carry into old age, long after any belts are consigned to the attention me and Frankie Fredericks [the Olympic medal- trophy cabinet. Whether uttered by a friend or stranger in the winning sprinter] get. There are a lot of soccer and netball street, that one simple phrase is an instant reminder of the stars but if we talk about people who have raised Namibia person they once were. up internationally it is only me and Frankie. I am proud to But the word haunts Simon. Allowing himself to remember say that. the man he once was means confronting the reasons why “I never liked speed, my whole life. There was a time when that confident, brash character no longer exists. I didn’t have a car. If I had to go to Windhoek [Namibia’s Thursday, November 21, 2002. The events of that autumn capital city], I would have to jump into a minibus. Most of day will be forever burned into Simon’s mind. He spent the those guys didn’t like to take me because I used to tell them day showing a documentary film crew around his hometown ‘Only 120km/hr or 130. If it isn’t like that, I will jump off.’ of Walvis Bay in Namibia. He worked out for the cameras, “Lots of guys wanted to be seen with me so they would go took them to the bank to film him counting his money by my rules. Sometimes they would see me coming and say I and drove them over some nearby sand dunes in his new couldn’t go with them because they were rushing. I would let Mercedes. Later that evening, that same Mercedes was them go and find somebody driving slower. involved in a head-on collision with another vehicle. Three “I don’t know how fast I was driving [during the second Belgian tourists – including a baby girl – died. In 2005 Simon crash] and I don’t even think I was speeding. It was just an was found guilty of culpable homicide. Two years later, he accident. People talk about witchcraft but I don’t believe in went to prison. These days, he is known for more than being that. I believe the accident just happened and it was maybe ‘Champ’. meant to be.” “I lost everything. It’s hard to talk about. It is too painful. It’s said that in the midst of a near-death experience I remember it very well. You try to forget but now and then your life flashes before your eyes but from the moment his you remember it,” Simon told Boxing News. Mercedes came to a juddering halt, Simon’s has replayed “Life was great. I used to travel a lot. My children were over and over on an agonising loop. small, life was good. The only thing I regret is that after If he could focus on his formative years and recall the the car accident I had, my life immediately changed. I have mental strength and resilience it required to achieve what he washed my hands of it. I have forgiven myself. I moved on. did in the sport, he may have been better placed to deal with When I speak about it it hurts me to think about that day but the consequences of that terrible day. Instead, he spent years I’m clean. I have made peace with myself and I have made dwelling on what he had lost. peace with everybody else. When I speak about it I can’t help Simon’s father was never a factor in his life and he lost his thinking about what happened to the Harry Simon I used to mother when he was four years old. He grew up in poverty be? His life was crushed in 2002 and it was never the same and did what he could to make money. He discovered a talent again. for fighting when he was “a naughty kid” on the street. “I didn’t take any alcohol. I was driving from Walvis Bay to “I’m not naturally talented. I’m gifted. It is a gift from Swakopmund along a long beach. I could see a car ahead. God. Why do I say I’m gifted? Look at the way I went I could see the lights. I was relaxing talking to my friend and through my whole career,” Simon said. “If you could see then boom. I didn’t even have time to brake. I didn’t overtake.” all the championship that we had, I won them all. The only Simon uses the word ‘I’ a lot. But he wasn’t the victim. He championship I lost is the Olympic Games in Barcelona where may have lost his career but others lost far more. Thankfully, they used computer scoring. there is a subtle but telling change to his tone. Suddenly, he is “I was 10 or 11 when I had my first fight. I remember I back behind the wheel of his Mercedes. “He is stationary and fought an older man and I won. They gave me an orange as a looking to turn. I just have to pass and then he can turn. And trophy. I had 275 fights. then I’m on the ground.” “In the years of apartheid, Namibia was known as South It isn’t the type of incident you can wash your hands of. If West Africa. There was no way you can be a South West you try, they will quickly get dirty again. African champion at that time but I was champion since I Namibia is a stunning but barren country. Walvis Bay was 13 years old. Imagine that? I was 15 years old and in the sits out on the west coast where the desert runs into the national team. When I turned pro I was 21. Every one of those ocean. To the south lie the towering sand dunes and salt years I was in the national team.” flats of Sossusvlei. To the north is arid Kaokoland, home to A streak of bought him to the attention of the beautiful red Himba women. The roads which Sports Network and he spent 18 months boxing in separate the scattered towns and cities are long, the UK and Ireland, appearing on Naseem Hamed straight, empty and tempting. In April 2001 – 17 undercards and spending much of his time training months before the crash which at the Peacock Gym in East London. would destroy his career – two The brilliant Ronald “Winky” Wright Namibians died when Simon’s I COULD SEE A CAR was 38-1 when Simon came from car hit them from behind at high nowhere to take his WBO super- speed. Eventually, after a haphazard AHEAD AND THEN welterweight title and dangerous investigation involving vanishing punchers Kevin Lueshing and blood samples and conflicting BOOM. I DIDN’T HAVE Wayne Alexander were swept witness statements, his chauffeur TIME TO BREAK. aside in ruthless fashion before admitted to having been behind the Simon cruised past Cherifi. By the wheel. I DIDN’T OVERTAKE” time he outpointed Kranjc to win

30 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net WINNER: Simon remains undefeated Photo: GETTY IMAGES his second WBO belt, the boy who grew up with nothing in quickly stopped ringing and, unable to fight due to the a remote outpost of the boxing world was being linked with injuries he suffered in the crash, his middleweight title was the biggest names in the sport. He began to feel and act as stripped from him and he found himself opening bills rather though he had made it. than cheques. “Especially when I beat Kranjc. I wanted to grow big,” he The change to his circumstances were made even more remembers. “In 2002 we went to the WBO Convention in difficult to accept by his insistence that he wasn’t to blame. Panama and they gave me an award. We were talking about “Everybody hated me. I couldn’t understand it. This was an me maybe fighting William Joppy. If not Joppy, maybe Bernard accident. I didn’t do it intentionally. It wasn’t in my will. I had Hopkins. My target was ‘Tito’, Felix Trinidad. Why Trinidad? I everything I needed. I had my own house and car. I had a little fought Cherifi in Puerto Rico and I challenged Trinidad the bit of money in the bank. I didn’t owe anybody. Why should same night. Trinidad was getting ready to fight Hopkins. I try to kill myself or kill other people?” When he lost to Hopkins he was supposed to fight me but It took three years for the case to reach court but when changed his mind and fought Cherifi. He knocked him out. the facts were heard, Simon was found guilty of culpable “I was demanding Trinidad. Even when we went to Panama homicide and sentenced to two years in prison. His appeal I was telling everybody at Sports Network that I wanted was rejected, as was a bid by the prosecution to have his him. They said they were going to try and make it happen. sentence increased and on July 9 2007, almost five years after Unfortunately it didn’t happen. the incident which destroyed so many lives, Simon heard a “I think Hopkins was ducking [me]. When he heard the prison door close behind him. name Harry Simon he started to make excuses. That’s what “When high profile people get sentenced they don’t mix they were telling me. I didn’t speak to Hopkins and them with other people so I had to stay in a single when I didn’t hear from Joppy I just thought that cell,” he said. “I had my own TV and a DVD player those guys didn’t want to do anything with me.” to watch mine and my opponents fights. I didn’t Any feeling of invincibility Simon eat prison food. I would buy my felt would soon be shattered own chicken or whatever and pay forever. Less than a month after the the chef with cigarettes or washing convention, Simon found himself lay EVERYBODY HATED powder. in the sand outside Walvis Bay, his “I was sentenced in Windhoek arm and leg broken and numerous ME. I COULDN’T and stayed there maybe a week. lives in pieces around him. UNDERSTAND IT. Then they had to transfer me to my Used to being the centre of birthplace, which is Walvis Bay. I had attention and protected by his I DIDN’T DO IT problems because of the person celebrity and standing, suddenly that I am but it wasn’t dangerous like Simon was vulnerable. His phone INTENTIONALLY” Windhoek. That’s where the most

IN CHARGE: Simon stops Lueshing way back in 1999 Photo: GETTY IMAGES

32 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net BAD MEMORIES: The dunes at Walvis Bay, Namibia Photo: UNSPLASH.COM/@ SERGIFERRETE

dangerous criminals are and they all knew me. When I was there they called me to their room to see the boss. They called him ‘Ninja.’ “Ninja’s room was covered in my pictures. Me against Wayne Alexander. Me against Armand Kranjc. Me versus Winky. He had my videos. He had his own television and a fridge. I wondered what was going on. “Most of those guys wanted to be associated with me. I didn’t know but their plan was that they wanted me to be their friend so that if the cops or the guards came then maybe we can overpower them. “I was clever. I saw that this was very dangerous. This man [officer] said they could send me to Walvis Bay. I said, ‘Hold on.’ They [the prison gang] had a meeting the next day and I wanted to attend. Something told me to leave and go to Walvis. I did one year something and I was out. If I had gone to that meeting, I would still be in prison as we speak.” Simon was released in 2009. He is now 45 but is still active and holds the world record for the longest unbeaten run in professional boxing. He has dreams of training five world champions and has hopes that his son, Harry Simon Jnr, can replicate his success. He is friendly and open but there is a sadness underpinning his words. During his reign, Simon lived in the moment. For the past 18 years he has been longing for the past. Walvis Bay lies at the southern tip of Namibia’s Skeleton Coast. It is known as The Ship’s Graveyard. Once formidable vessels lie beached on the sand, derelict and forgotten. There were plenty of victims that autumn evening just outside Walvis Bay. Simon wasn’t one of them. Three people lost their lives, Simon lost his way of life. The repercussions on November 21st 2002 will stay with him forever but unless he begins to focus his energy on building a new legacy, he is at risk of crumbling away like the rusting hulls that jut out of the desert whilst the sea air slowly erodes them to nothing. “Yes, but who’s going to help me with that?” he says sadly before quickly catching himself. “I have to do it myself. I’ve Photo: GETTY IMAGES done it before. I can do it again.” bn

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 33 THE OVERROVERREA MICKEY ★WALKER★ SPECIAL FEATURE

Carlos Acevedo tells the story of the hell-bent-for-leather Mickey Walker’s days at heavyweight that began with a draw linked to Al Capone and ended in a frightful beating VERREACHACHERER

IT’S easy for a guy like me to live violently, during the 1920s. In 1924 alone, Walker, then welterweight as if there were no tomorrow.” champion of the world, fought eight times, equaling the total Although nearly every historical number of fights Dempsey had for the duration of The Jazz overview of the 1920s has Jack Dempsey Age. listed in its index, it was, boxing-wise, at If not for the looming shadow of Dempsey, who dominated least, Mickey Walker, “The Toy Bulldog”, nascent mass media in America with a backstory that who truly embodied the madcap Roaring Twenties. While resembled a folk tale, Walker would have been the most Dempsey, the ex-hobo now heavyweight champion and popular fighter of his era and the personification of its riotous permanent newspaper headline, was hobnobbing with ethos. In 1922, Walker won the welterweight title from aging Hollywood luminaries in Beverley Hills mansions, Walker was Jack Britton and spent the next decade painting the town red. pure hell-bent-for-leather among the hoi polloi in settings In his case, the town was nearly 3.8 million square miles, from as diverse as armories, dancehalls, and weather-beaten Newark, New Jersey, to San Francisco, California, and dozens arenas; where Dempsey was largely a teetotaler, Walker of raucous points in between. (His one title defence outside guzzled Scotch by the barrel; where Dempsey spent most of of the U.S. was a kayo of talented Scotsman Tommy Milligan, his time with high society and made a conscientious effort to at the Olympia, in London.) learn table manners, Walker caroused speakeasies By 1927, Walker was the middleweight champion of overflowing with riffraff and scuffled on the streets the world, bringing his unique combination of kayos and in hotel rooms. and chaos across the country. Everywhere, it seemed, More important, perhaps, Walker but New York City, the epicentre of had a nearly insatiable craving for boxing since 1920. In an era when fisticuffs. “The Magnificent Mick was WALKER WAS ONE The Big Apple, then mirroring the one of the last of a wild breed ambition of the entire country by who loved to brawl for the hell of OF THE LAST OF A erecting skyscraper after skyscraper, it,” wrote John McCallum in The was the driving economic force in Encyclopedia of Champions, “drunk or WILD BREED WHO boxing, Walker was cut out of the sober, regardless of the time, place, LOVED TO BRAWL Broadway ballyhoo because of his or circumstance.” And Dempsey, by manager, the nefarious Jack Kearns. contrast, hardly stepped into a ring FOR THE HELL OF IT” Indeed, Kearns was so loathed

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 35 FEARLESS: Walker was happy to take on all-comers

36 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net by the New York State Athletic Commission that he had of underworld influences. Despite his erratic performances been barred from attending the middleweight championship — or, perhaps, because of them — Sharkey was one of the bout between Walker and Harry Greb in 1925. This unofficial biggest gate attractions in boxing during the late 1920s, just blacklist meant Walker — and by extension, Kearns — had an before the Stock Market crash bottomed out the sport the artificial cap on his earnings. same way it had bottomed out the country. His legendary But for the carefree Kearns, worse was still to come. “There brawl against Jack Dempsey — in which Sharkey was poleaxed was nothing laughable, however, about the financial crash of while remonstrating to the referee — drew a crowd of 75,000 October 1929, which shook the whole nation,” he wrote in his to Yankee Stadium in New York City to become only the autobiography, The Million-Dollar Gate. “My first thought was fourth million-dollar gate in boxing history. “The guys who to get back to New York to see what I might be able to salvage ride me foot the bills,” Sharkey told the Boston Globe about out of my considerable investments. I had plunged rather his negative appeal. “I know they come to see me get my heavily and, as it eventually block knocked off. What do developed, lost about a I care for them? I hate them quarter of a million dollars.” as much as they hate me. It was probably around I like to keep on fighting then that Kearns began and winning only because to imagine Walker as a I like to see them leave the heavyweight. Kearns, more ringside disappointed that than anyone, knew how I wasn’t busted around and much the heavyweight title cut up and left bleeding and was worth. Until a few years helpless on the floor!” earlier, he had generated As mercurial as Sharkey millions of dollars guiding was, he was still more Jack Dempsey as a part-time than capable of handling champion and a full-time a puffed-up middleweight celebrity. But Kearns was whose idea of roadwork as crooked as a corkscrew was a string of midnight bar that had been run over by a crawls. “They say nobody Studebaker, and Dempsey living can keep Walker on eventually fired his the floor,” Sharkey sneered longtime partner, leaving before the fight. “This time him with only Walker for he will be spread for keeps.” a meal-ticket. Because Sharkey and Walker met Walker was fearless, he on July 22, 1931, at Ebbets hardly needed convincing Field in Brooklyn, New York. to swap punches with the For his first outing in New dreadnoughts who towered York since 1926 (although above him, a roughneck of he did fight in Brooklyn, five feet, seven inches, who began his career as a TWO-WEIGHT KING: Ohio, in 1928), Walker scaled 169 1/2 pounds. lightweight. His daring whimsicality made such a Walker ruled By contrast, Sharkey weighed 198 1/2, a vast dangerous proposition just another frolic. the world at differential that no commission would allow today. welterweight and As far back as 1925, Walker had challenged middleweight A crowd of more than 30,000 paid a remarkable Mike McTigue for the light-heavyweight title, during his career $233,356 to watch this incongruous pairing scrap. earning a newspaper decision over the reigning From the opening bell, Walker bored in, looking champion despite weighing only 149 pounds. After to bullyrag Sharkey at close quarters and crash his winning the middleweight championship from Tiger Flowers left hook to the body. In response, Sharkey flicked out the in 1926, Walker regularly fought non-title bouts against occasional blow, but his strategy revolved around clinching bigger opponents, and in 1929 he challenged once more at every opportunity. Even for Sharkey, a 3/1 favorite, such for the light-heavyweight crown, this time losing on points a lacklustre performance was unusual. In the fifth round, to Philadelphia maestro Tommy Loughran. Now, he was Sharkey landed a right that dropped Walker for a gambling that his paralysing left hook and his indomitable flash knockdown, but his clutch-and-grab tactics remained fighting spirit would be enough to defeat the oversized in effect until the last third of the fight, when he accelerated bruisers of a rough-and-tumble era. until the final bell, leaving Walker bloody and bruised. After A year after the crash of 1929, Walker made his official 15 desultory rounds, the fight was ruled a draw. “When the debut as a heavyweight — while still middleweight champion fight was over, I was fresher by far than he was,” Walker of the world — grinding out a points win against veteran would say later. “He looked disgusted, as if he thought he Johnny “Rubber Man” Risko. Walker, who weighed a shade had lost. I was sure I had won.” There may have been another over 165 pounds, gave up nearly 30 pounds to Risko. reason for Sharkey looking disgusted. Over the years, the From there, Walker went on a winning streak that led him, circumstances surrounding Sharkey-Walker would gradually seemingly as a gangplank leads a mutineer to a watery death, reveal themselves. to his first world-class big man: future heavyweight champion Before the fight, Sharkey had raised eyebrows by having Jack Sharkey. Matty Capone (brother of the infamous “Scarface”) One of the most controversial fighters of his era, visit him in training camp, but years later Boston Sharkey had a nervous system liable to go haywire Record columnist Dave Egan openly stated that the at any moment, and his crabby underworld had been behind the eloquence made him a back-page result: “He was forced by the late mainstay for years. So, too, did his THEY SAY NOBODY and unlamented Al Capone to carry inconsistent results. Strange things Mickey Walker 15 rounds and then occurred when Sharkey entered CAN KEEP WALKER was lucky to escape with a draw.” the ring. Some of them were due Johnny Buckley managed Jack to his mercurial personality, some ON THE FLOOR. THIS Sharkey from the beginning of of them occurred because of the TIME HE WILL BE his career. When he died, in 1963, inherent vagaries of boxing, and sportswriter John M. Flynn recalled some of them transpired because SPREAD FOR KEEPS” a conversation he once had with

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 37 the shifty manager. “Buckley had promised somebody Walker recalled. interested in Walker that Mickey would be on his feet at Somehow, Walker made it to the bell, and when he the finish,” Flynn wrote in the Berkshire Evening Record. “The stumbled to his corner, he got an unusual response from crowd was strongly in favour of Walker and Sharkey feared he the ice-cold Kearns: empathy. “He stayed in there and gave would lose the decision because after he hit Mickey he would it everything he had while Schmeling smashed him to the grab him to keep him from falling. As the fight progressed, canvas like a rubber ball,” Kearns wrote. “By the eighth round, Sharkey told Buckley he would have to cut loose, or he would while Mickey might have been able to take it a little longer, drop the verdict. Buckley told him to go ahead but be sure I couldn’t. I told them to stop the fight.” that Walker was on his feet at the finish.” Although Kearns put an end to the carnage, Walker, face But the biggest revelation came from Jack Kearns, whose covered in gore, remained defiant to the bitter end. “You relationship with Capone had long been a matter of public threw in the sponge, Doc,” he spluttered through bloody lips, record. In The Million-Dollar Gate, Kearns confessed to “not me.” It was a glorious defeat — he would be lauded for meeting with Capone before the fight and requesting a little his courage throughout the country — but Walker, driven as “insurance”. And Kearns was a man whose entire worldview he was by desire and a certain sporting insolence, had finally was based on always having overreached. an edge. “I have never been After losing to Schmeling, involved in a fixed fight; a battered Walker bypassed fixed, that is, where I lost a a desperately needed fight,” he wrote. “But I will sabbatical and returned to admit this: I’m a winner, not the small wars in a little a loser. I’d do anything to over two months. He win, but I won’t lose. And fought regularly until 1935, you can draw your own with mixed results, and for conclusions from that.” smaller purses. Regardless of the In November 1933 skullduggery surrounding Walker even landed the draw, Walker was now another title shot, considered a legitimate against light-heavyweight heavyweight threat, and champion “Slapsie the sporting masses adored Maxie” Rosenbloom, who the David vs. Goliath saga outpointed Walker in he recreated, at scale, from Madison Square Garden. fight to fight. Not even a When he retired, a few years decision loss to Johnny Risko, later, Walker nosedived into on June 24, 1932, could the life of a celebrity lush. dampen public enthusiasm. A liquid diet had always In retrospect, the misstep been his preference, but against Risko should have acted as a warning RESPECT: now, without the counterbalancing effects of a sign. Walker was 31 years old, with more than 130 A newspaper training schedule, Walker was little more than a recorded fights, several jumbo scars crosshatching clipping featuring sot. He sobered up enough to become a goodwill his face, and a dissolute lifestyle that he was action from ambassador for President Roosevelt during World Walker vs. powerless to control. The last thing he needed was Natie Brown War II and to make appearances as a nightclub to square off against a near-peak Max Schmeling. entertainer and a radio personality, but his life had By September 1932, Schmeling, 26, was the taken on an unfulfilling, haphazard quality. ex-heavyweight champion of the world after losing a dubious A restless Walker finally found his second calling — as a decision to Sharkey a few months earlier. But he was still a painter. His primitive canvases were slathered with thick few years away from his shocking upset of Joe Louis, and his impasto mirroring the patchwork ruts of scars lining his brow. slashing right cross, along with his calculating style, made Art brut, indeed. His paintings were good enough to hang at him one of the most dangerous in the world. the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Academy of Fine With Al Capone now serving a lengthy sentence in Alcatraz, Arts in Philadelphia. Walker remained in the news for a few there would be no gangster angels to watch over Walker this years because of dabs and daubs (not jabs), but eventually, time. the star-crossed hellraiser second only to Dempsey in fame The Madison Square Garden Bowl, in Long Island City, during the fabled 1920s succumbed to the hazards of his Queens, was the site for the gruesome mismatch that finally profession. ended the heavyweight run of Mickey Walker. More than In May 1974, he was discovered unconscious in a Brooklyn 40,000 spectators gathered on September 26, 1932 to see gutter, and the police who found him assumed he was a how far Walker could push his reckless audacity. derelict who had collapsed after a bender. Walker could not Almost immediately the violent end was prefigured; even recall his own name. He had been living, alone, in a Schmeling floored Walker heavily with a right hand late in boarding room in Elizabeth, New Jersey, barely surviving on the first round. From that point on, Schmeling seemed to Social Security checks and handouts from old friends. A month coast, allowing Walker to chug forward, throwing later, at Perth Amboy General Hospital, he was given hooks to the body, while Schmeling counterpunched last rites, but Walker, as headstrong as ever, survived. judiciously. In the eighth round, Schmeling finally Walker was suffering from Parkinson’s Disease and decided to open fire, bloodying cerebral arterial sclerosis and was Walker, shutting his eyes, dropping finally committed to Marlboro State him twice, and imploring the Psychiatric Hospital, where he died referee to stop the fight. “Schmeling SCHMELING OPENED on April 28, 1981. Possibly the last opened up then and gave me a public words Walker spoke, during terrific shellacking. It was the worst UP AND GAVE a brief interview in 1976, when his beating I ever took in my life. One ME THE WORST recall was sporadic and halting, punch knocked my mouthpiece to were almost fitting, for a man whose the canvas. Another dropped me BEATING I EVER competitive spirit was undeniable: for a five-count. I got up, but was “Fighting is in a fighter. He has to floundering around helplessly,” TOOK IN MY LIFE” fight.” bn

38 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net SLUGGER: Walker pounds the bag during training AMATEURS

The very best action, previews and news from Olympic-style boxing AMATEUR @BoxingNewsJD SCENE With JOHN DENNEN | SEND us your club's news, results or upcoming events to [email protected] or 020 7618 3478 FIGHT TO SURVIVE

Emeralds MERALDS Boxing the wrong path and stuff like that. I work club in Chippenham quite closely with some of the police and Boxing club in is in a fight for I’ve worked quite closely with some of Chippenham survival. The gym the schools with some of the kids that are needs, and E is trying to weather going down the wrong route behaviour- the impact of the wise. We’ve had a few kids that have deserves, help, coronavirus, like all been expelled from mainstream school, writes John clubs across the country, and on top of we’ve got them back into the mainstream Dennen that they now face losing their premises school. It amazes me that the council is as their landlord plans to increase their not all over it.” rent to an unaffordable amount. The club, relatively new, is successful. Emeralds has reopened, adapting to “The local council don’t seem that follow all the Boxing guidelines interested, which amazes me because for training. But they had plans for three we’ve only been open since July 2012, club shows that of course had to be we’ve had seven national champions, called off, resulting in a crippling loss of we’ve had three England representatives, income from those events. But losing we’ve had a Welsh representative,” the gym itself is even more severe. Head ‘I’M A BOXING MAN Lathbury said. coach Liam Lansbury [pictured] explains Its work in the community is important that the rent rise would be “1500% dearer MYSELF SO I WILL and if this club were to vanish, nothing so it’s completely out of our reach”. would replace it. “We live in a part of the “We’re not in a rich part of the world NEVER GIVE UP. I country, there’s a lot of kids here and in anyway. In the West Country people think WILL NOT LET THIS the town they’ve took everything away. there’s loads of money round here but They’ve took down the community centre, there’s not and companies need to be THING SHUT. WE the youth clubs have gone, there’s nothing tight with their own money. Especially here. We’re so situated on a brilliant in the current climate, everybody’s CAN’T GIVE UP’ position on the M4 corridor, unfortunately panicking. But the council have buildings the drug running and the county lines all over the place empty but they just a lot of parents can’t afford to pay these stuff is really, really hot round here. And if seem to not want to get involved for astronomical prices,” he said. “We’re trying there’s even less for them to do, it’s going some reason. I do keep it as cheap as I to build something where we can work to be more likely that kids go down that can [to use the gym]. Boxing tries to be with the community as a community road unfortunately and it’s something that cheap to get the kids in the gym because hub with any kids that are going down we’re trying to get involved with heavily

IN HAPPIER TIMES: Young people from the community filled the club

40 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net SAVE LEISURE

ENGLAND Boxing are backing a campaign to save the leisure sector. The government is being called on to find relief funding, of around £800 million, to support the reopening and recovery of the public leisure sector after the disastrous impact of the to stop,” he explained. “We’ve had all sorts some help so we’re trying everything in VITAL ASSET: Covid 19 pandemic. of real bad stories from kids that have got our arsenal to get it everywhere we can The premises of The campaign is being Emeralds boxing stuff going on at home and all that. It’s a so people will pick it up. We need the club is at risk run by Community Leisure place of safety, a sanctuary, three times a right person to read it or see it and then UK, ukactive and CIMSPA and backed week to get away from problems they got hopefully we’ll get some help. by a host of other partners and elsewhere.” “I’m a boxing man myself, so it’s a never national governing bodies. Without “We’ve changed their outlook and the give up situation. I will not let this thing it it’s feared that 1,300 venues could person they are massively just by being shut. Whatever I’ve got to do, I will do. be lost, along with tens of thousands around all those young confident kids,” he We can’t give up. It’s been so much blood of jobs. The campaign points out too continued. “I’ve always said a boxing gym sweat and tears to get where we are. I that losing leisure facilities is at odds puts an old head on young shoulders.” can’t walk away from it.” with the government’s plan to reduce Emeralds Boxing is looking for help, For anyone who can help or support, obesity and improve the nation’s whether its from local businesses or you can email Liam Lathbury at health through exercise in the face of people in the boxing world who can just [email protected] and find a possible second wave of Covid 19. highlight their plight. “We’re trying to get their Justgiving fundraising page here: Mark Tweedie, chief executive established somewhere else,” Lathbury https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ of Community Leisure UK, said, said. “We’re really struggling to find liam-lathbury-EB. “Communities without leisure centres are unimaginable, so we are reaching out to everyone to unite behind our #saveleisure campaign for specific fixed term Government financial support to save our leisure centres and community based services. “Public leisure centres feature at the heart of communities – they play an essential part in supporting health and wellbeing and help to reduce escalating costs to the NHS and social services.” Super-heavyweight national champion Delicious Orie [below] said, “When I walked into a gym, I was given the possibility to learn and I was given the opportunity to learn and over the years I was able to capitalise on these facilities and really use them to my advantage. “Leisure centres and facilities played and still play a massive part in my life… Really in a way it changed my life. They’re also massive to the youth and the younger generation. “Leisure facilities, whatever it is, in my case boxing, is a great tool for the community.”

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 41 THIS WEEK IN HIST

Photos: GETTY IMAGES Saad Muhammad CHAMPION: and Conteh share Crawford a classic, Benn celebrates and Barkley go hell for leather, Crawford thrashes Indongo, McNeeley goes all kamikaze against Tyson and Frazier makes his debut, writes Matt Christie

JOE FRAZIER w rsf 1 TERENCE CRAWFORD MIKE TYSON w dq 1 5 WOODY GOSS 4 w rsf 3 JULIUS INDONGO 3 PETER McNEELEY August 16, 1965; Convention Hall, Philadelphia August 19, 2017; Pinnacle Bank Arena, Lincoln, NE August 19, 1995; MGM Grand, Las Vegas, NV MOST boxing fans know the name Tunney TERENCE CRAWFORD’S brilliant thrashing NOBODY gave Peter McNeeley a sniff of Hunsaker, the unremarkable fighter who of Julius Indongo says plenty about the a chance against Mike Tyson. No matter. greeted Cassius Clay into the professional state of modern boxing. Firstly, what a This was all about the return of a superstar ranks but Woody Goss – Joe Frazier’s first crying shame that someone of Crawford’s after imprisonment kept him out of the unvested rival – isn’t nearly as famous. ability must count this victory among the ring for four years. Fans all over the world Frazier was motoring, he’d won three most noteworthy of his career to date. combined to make this mismatch the consecutive Golden Gloves in Philly, added Particularly when one considers the talent biggest pay-per-view event in boxing history the Olympic Gold in 1964, and promised his that is in and around the weight classes in at the time. And to be fair, it was fun while sponsors that he’d be world heavyweight which he’s competed. It’s true that Indongo it lasted. Upon hearing the opening bell, champion by 1967. Goss, whose final was deemed a minor threat but the fanfare the underdog swung at Tyson like a drunk record reads 6-5 (3), never stood a chance. surrounding the ‘undisputed’ title on offer trying to dissuade a wasp from landing It was reported at the time he was a was exposed pretty much the moment in his beer. Down within seconds after substitute for a substitute. Bounced off the Crawford moved up in weight in his next walking into a counter, McNeeley continued canvas in the opening round, the contest bout and left the undisputed championship to attack before being clattered to the was stopped when Goss failed to obey the disputed yet again. But we should be deck again. Mills Lane struggled to keep referee’s instructions to stop holding. thankful for something: At least fighters as control before McNeeley’s manager, Vinnie DID YOU KNOW? The official who threw out good and talented as Crawford exist in the Vecchione, entered the ring to trigger a Goss was the legendary Zach Clayton, midst of all this mess. disqualification in Tyson’s favour. best known for counting to 10 as George DID YOU KNOW? Crawford relinquished DID YOU KNOW? Marc Ratner, executive Foreman tried to rise against Ali in 1974. the IBF portion of his title just 11 days director of Nevada’s boxing commission, Clayton would referee Frazier on another after winning the fight because he was said afterwards: “We are going to keep the four occasions. under pressure to agree terms to fight IBF manager’s share of the purse. The fighter WATCH OUT FOR: Boxing News couldn’t find mandatory, Sergey Lipinets. will get his full share. He was here to fight.” any footage of Frazier-Goss. But check out WATCH OUT FOR: The savage body attack that WATCH OUT FOR: The pre- and post-fight When The Smoke Clears, an excellent 2011 leaves the previously undefeated Indongo interviews with McNeeley have to be seen film on “Smokin” Joe. unable to beat the count. to be believed.

42 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net BOXING THIS WEEK IN HISTORY ON THE BOX What else to watch this week BT SPORT Carl Frampton and Michael Conlan make their returns inside the BT Studios in Stratford on Saturday night. You can watch the live action on BT Sport 2 from 8pm. The broadcast is neatly preceded at 7pm by 42-1, the excellent ESPN documentary about Buster Douglas beating Mike Tyson.

SKY SPORTS Live on Sky Sports Mix from 7pm on Friday night (August 14) is the third instalment of Matchroom Fight Camp. Topping the bill is Felix Cash taking on Jason Welborn.

ESPN PLAYER There are two volumes of Sonny Liston’s Greatest Fights. Fascinating to watch Liston at his prime and remember the underrated heavyweight for more than just his two losses to Muhammad Ali.

BBC iPLAYER Olympics Rewind: Olympic Boxing looks back on the 2012 Games. Gold medal winners and join Mike Costello for a very special trip down Memory Lane.

HERO RETURNS: Tyson blazes through the wild McNeeley

NIGEL BENN w rsf 1 MATTHEW SAAD MUHAMMAD 2 IRAN BARKLEY 1 w pts 15 August 18, 1990; Bally’s, Las Vegas, NV August 18, 1979; Resorts International Hotel, IRAN BARKLEY was two years removed Atlantic City, NJ from his shocking three-round victory over IN a thriller that ushered in the era of Thomas Hearns, his most recent win, when casino boxing in Atlantic City, Matthew Saad he fought Nigel Benn in 1990. Barkley had Muhammad and John Conteh produced a lost to Roberto Duran and Michael Nunn mesmerising war of the ages. Conteh, the and was denied permission by the British former owner of the WBC light-heavyweight Boxing Board of Control to challenge the strap he was challenging for, opened up a Benn in the UK due to a detached retina. lead early on. The action heated up when The Nevada commission gave Barkley the the Scouser was tagged in the fifth but by green light before the American lost his the end of the session, the champion was father to cancer one week before the fight. left with a gruesome eye injury following His luck was out in the fight, too. Stunned, a clash of heads. Momentum swung both floored and clouted while on the canvas, ways from then on. The champion seemed Barkley managed to get up and visibly to have won the fight in the 14th when he hurt his opponent. But Benn repeated the floored Conteh twice, only for the visitor to knockdown, and the foul, before toppling rally again in the 15th and final round. The Barkley for the third and final time. decision went to Saad, but it really could FURTHER VIEWING: DID YOU KNOW? Barkley won world belts at have gone either way. super-middle and light-heavy after this, DID YOU KNOW? Saad Muhammad’s Henry Armstrong w pts 15 Lou Ambers making Benn’s showing all the better. cornermen, Adolph Ritacco and Nick (1938); Michael Nunn w pts 12 Iran WATCH OUT FOR: Benn exhibiting his Belflore, were suspended by the New Barkley (1989); Bruce Seldon w rsf 10 bombastic power, his love of a slugfest, Jersey State Athletic Commission for using Joe Hipp (1995); Terry Norris w rsf 2 Luis his carefree approach to the rules, his an illegal adrenaline substance on their Santana (1995). propensity to make life difficult for himself fighter’s cut eye. and his underrated counter-punching WATCH OUT FOR: The moment the fight ability. All in the space of three minutes. catches fire in the fifth round.

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 43 YESTERDAY’S HEROES SEEING STARS

When Ted EORGES the game was full of talented young under the name of Tommy Broad and it CARPENTIER lads, many younger than Carpentier. Ted was there that he attained the business Broadribb was, without any Kid Lewis, for instance, won the British acumen that would stand him in good knocked the doubt, the best featherweight title at 17. Georges was stead later as a manager. great Georges G boxer that France used to meeting, and beating, older He was also a gifted trainer who ever produced. He fighters. quickly established a good stable in 1912 Carpentier silly used to routinely Many years later Carpentier, in within a year of having to hang up his beat English fighters for fun, often very remembering his bout against Broadribb, gloves due to a hand injury. Amongst quickly. Joe Beckett was twice knocked recollected that: “In less than a round his first fighters were the 1910 ABA out by him in the first round, and he Snowball had taken full stock of me, lightweight champion, Tom Tees, the did the same to both Ted Kid Lewis and in the second round he cut me to British flyweight title-holder, , and . Early in his ribbons. He was a monster, he gave me and Johnny Summers, his counterpart at illustrious career, he came a cropper neither time to think nor welterweight. For men of against two British fighters, Buck Shine wonder, he battered my this calibre to so quickly of Somers Town, who outpointed him face, he crashed my ribs, ‘HE WAS A align themselves with in March 1910, and then exactly four and I saw many stars. MONSTER, a novice manager says weeks later against Young Snowball of In the third he used me a lot for the reputation Walworth. very much as a punching IN EVERY that Broadribb had Snowball was better known as Ted bag. He outboxed me, within the game, and he Broadribb. He was the manager of, he outfought me, and in POSSIBLE WAY further cemented this amongst others, Freddie Mills and every possible way he by guiding , , and a boxing man to his was my superior.” MY SUPERIOR’ Bob Marriott, Curley core. When he met Carpentier, the Francois Deschamps Walker, Tommy Noble Frenchman was a boy of 16 and a threw in the towel in the fourth to save and brothers Harry and Dick Corbett featherweight who had only been beaten Carpentier, thus providing Ted with a to British title success. In the 1930s he four times in his 33 contests. Even at meal ticket that he could dine out on did the same with Nel Tarleton and Jack that stage of his career he was being for the rest of his life. Not many did Hood, but it was with Farr and Mills that lauded as a certain future champion. Ted, that to the great Frenchman, and it was he had his greatest success. at 21, was five years older but had less probably the worst beating that Georges When he retired, after guiding Johnny experience, having only lost once in his took until he stepped into the ring with Williams to the British heavyweight title, Miles 18 contests. On the face of it, matching Jack Dempsey 11 years later in boxing’s he was probably the most respected Templeton a 16-year old against someone five years first million-dollar gate. man in the game and when he died in Boxing older might be seen by modern fans as Broadribb had 33 contests, as far as 1968, five days short of his 80th birthday, historian the primary reason why Georges got I can trace, and he lost only seven of BN stated that, as a manager, Broadribb beaten, but this is a facile view. In 1910 them. He twice toured that States boxing was “The Master of the Art”. GOODBYE, ERIC

Seccombe was THE latest Punch Lines – Essex EBA’s being 4-2 to Pat – their final meeting for a lot of money. The back cover bears integral in monthly newsletter – has an interesting bringing Pat the Central Area title at the some colour reproductions, including Michael article on Essex President Pat Thompson, second attempt. former world heavyweight champions a pro light-heavyweight from 1972 to Not surprisingly, Pat names Liverpool John L. Sullivan and Max Schmeling. Watson’s rise 1977. Stadium as his favourite venue. Today Essex are hoping to be able to hold a Pat was what you’d call an active fighter he’s an active member of both London meeting this month. I hope they do, and – in just over 65 months he packed in and Essex EBAs, does a lot for charity and I’ll look forward to receiving details. 72 contests, winning 37 and drawing has fond memories of his boxing career. Like most EBAs, Essex know the five. Born in Liverpool, he boxed all over “I loved every minute of it and met some importance of supporting today’s England – with 68 bouts there, three in great people. Boxing people are great to scene, and being seen to do so – and and one in . be amongst.” My readers will relate to there’s a comprehensive preview of Ted I saw Pat box several times, mostly on that. Cheeseman’s bout with Sam Eggington. London small hall shows. I covered him Another interesting piece deals with The front cover has a photo of Michael regularly for a Merseyside paper, and also the subject of boxing cigarette cards. Watson, who has battled so valiantly after reported on his January 1975 bout with These were first introduced in 1871 by the injuries suffered in his 1991 bout Simon Terry Armstrong for BN – topping the bill the American firm, Allen and Ginter, with Chris Eubank. Watson was trained Euan-Smith on the last-ever show at Shoreditch Town simply as ‘stiffeners’ – to protect the by Eric Seccombe, and I was so sorry to simonoldtimers Hall. Pat won an eight-rounder on points, cigarettes from damage. But the various read in the latest Seconds Out – London @googlemail.com to go 2-1 up in their series – Armstrong companies quickly realised their potential EBA’s newsletter – that Eric had died. He EBA having beaten Pat in Pat’s pro debut! They as collectables, and a great incentive for was a very nice man. I well remember correspondent would meet three more times, final score brand loyalty – and today original sets go the build-up to Watson’s challenge to

44 l BOXING NEWS l AUGUST 13, 2020 www.boxingnewsonline.net Photo: GETTY IMAGES

SNOWBALL: Broadribb [above], in the background, sagely looks down on his fighters, [left to right] George Daly, Johnny Peters, Phineas John and Nel Tarleton. As a boxer himself, Broadribb trounced Carpentier [left]

Photo: GETTY IMAGES Commonwealth middleweight champion public transport. So no LEBA meetings Nigel Benn in 1989. “The Dark Destroyer” just yet. had won 22 straight, all inside schedule Home Counties, however, will be – but Eric was quietly confident his man meeting in August (Sunday 30th) – and had the beating of him and so it proved, staging their Summer BBQ in September with Benn floored and halted in six (Sunday 20th). Following the very sensational rounds. successful July meeting at Watford Town There’s also a fascinating article by Cricket Club, both events will be held member Mike Taub on colourful and there. For both events doors open at 12 controversial heavyweight Jack Doyle. noon. But please let a committee member Sadly, the news on LEBA’s monthly know beforehand if you’ll be attending – meetings isn’t so good. Secretary/ “so we can keep everyone safe,” Chairman Treasurer Ray Caulfield duly approached Bob Williams said. “Look forward to two the manager of the Sports Bar and Grill – great events.” who showed him a list of 41 regulations I was delighted the July meeting went laid down by the Government regarding so well – clearly HC have found a winning the holding of meetings. It would be strategy. The BBQ is always a good event impossible to stage a LEBA meeting that and I’m very pleased it’s going on again. complied with them all – and there’s also the question of the age of most of the EMAIL [email protected] members, and the risks in travelling by FIGHTER: Watson takes it to Mike McCallum in April 1990 with your ex-boxer association news.

www.boxingnewsonline.net AUGUST 13, 2020 l BOXING NEWS l 45 SIXTY SECONDS

DALTON SMITH John Dennen talks to a knockout artist

Photo: MARK ROBINSON/MATCHROOM When and why you started good few Wagamamas. boxing: Best friends in boxing: I was five or six years old when Scott Jenkins, he used to box, he’s I first walked into the gym. My dad retired now, and all the lads in the took me in. I was playing football gym. at the same time but I wasn’t very Other sportsman you would good at football so I just fell in like to be: love with boxing. I couldn’t really say. I’ve always Favourite all-time fighter: thought be yourself and you can I’d probably say . achieve what you want. I used to watch him a lot growing Last film/TV show you saw: up as well. It was the bond he had Tiger King. Everyone was raving with his dad, I used to relate to about it. that. Who would play you in a film Personal career highlight: of your life: I’d say representing my country, It’s going to have to be Brad Pitt, going to the Olympics as a make me look good. sparring partner, travelling the Have you ever been starstruck: world in the amateurs on the I was meant to box on Vasyl Olympic team and then turning Lomachenko’s undercard. I got a professional, that was one of the picture with him and had a little biggest moments. chat so I was a little bit starstruck Toughest opponent: when I met him. There’s a couple of Kazakhs but Best advice received: one of the good fights I had was Stay at home and wash your against the Cuban, Yasnier Toledo hands! Lopez. It was the WSB final. Worst rumour about yourself: That was my debut in the WSB. If there’s a rumour out there, I got asked to box Cuba in the it’s probably started by Sunny final. I said yeah, why not? My Edwards. dad’s always said fight the best Something not many people because even if you lose, you’re know about you: still going to learn. I’ve always had I chopped my finger off when the mentality from being young I was 14. I boxed eight weeks later just fight the best and it’ll do you and won the ABAs. I had my finger much more than fighting people sewn back on. It was hung on by you’ll knock over. a thread of skin. I fell over, I fell in Best and worst attributes as a some glass. boxer: I work hard, I’m dedicated, I train hard, I’m professional. My worst – Age: Twitter: Nickname: ‘ Height: I like to sleep too much. 23 @daltonsmith08 Thunder’ 5ft 9 1/2ins Nationality: From: Stance: Record: Training tip: English Sheffield Orthodox 6-0 (5) Division: - Titles: Next fight: Listen to your coach and don’t Super lightweight n/a After beating Nathan think you know everything. Bennett on the August 1 Fight Camp show with a stunning knockout, Smith is Favourite meal/restaurant: FACTS FAST waiting for his next opportunity. Out of camp, an Indian but if I’m in camp I can demolish a

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