Manuel Charr becomes WBA heavyweight champion with unanimous decision over Alexander Ustinov in Oberhausen.

In one of most overlooked heavyweight title fights in history, Manuel Charr 31-4 (17 Ko’s) scored a well deserved 12 round unanimous decision over the mountainous Alexander Ustinov 34-2 (25 Ko’s) tonight at the Konig Pilsener Arena in Oberhausen Germany to capture the vacant WBA regular heavyweight championship.. The 6 foot 8, Belarusian used his imposing size to make the early rounds uncomfortable for Charr, with predictable yet affective punches thrown from ungainly angles, opening a cut above the Lebanese born fighters left eye.. Charr managed to find his range in the 4th after patiently attempting to counter the pedestrian Ustinov, landing the more intelligent punches in what was warming into a highly watchable bout.. The patience paid off in the seventh as he visibly shook Ustinov with a well timed left hook, maintaining the attack to rock him again towards the end of the session.. Ustinov started round 8 relatively fresh, considering the torrid nature of the 7th, in an attempt to discourage the now tiring Charr. With 25 seconds left in the round, Charr fired a searing left hook at the disorganised Ustinov, knocking the Belarusian off his feet, opening a gash under his eye in the process. An unsteady Ustinov climbed to his feet with a resigned look on his face, before the bell ending the round rescued him.. Ustinov survived the final two sessions with Charr remaining the composed front runner in a well executed performance.. Scores were.. 115-111, 116-111, 115-112. Charr displaying good ring generalship in a bout that many thought he’d emerge second best.. Ustinov showed is little more than we already knew, he’s big, awkward and manufactured..

Charr’s people now head into negotiations with representatives of Puerto Rico’s Fres Oquendo for an immediate first defence.

Charr meets Ustinov in Oberhausen for vacant WBA title.

In a lightly publicised embarrassment, two of the poorest heavyweights to contest for a portion of a world title, meet tomorrow night in Oberhausen Germany when Alexander Ustinov 34-1 (25 Ko’s) meets Manuel Charr 30-4 (17 Ko’s) for the vacant WBA title. Ustinov a 6 foot 8 inch Belarusian hasn’t boxed a ranked fighter in 5 years, when he last faced an opponent of note, he was beaten badly by future world title challenger Kubrat Pulev back in 2012. Since that defeat, Ustinov has strung together 7 straight victories but has only boxed once since 2015, a quick knockout over Rafael Zumbano in May, and within that time hasn’t boxed anything that I would remotely consider an elimination bout..
Charr in the opposite corner is equally unworthy of his unlikely opportunity. In 2012 with a promising record of 22-0, Charr looked like championship material, before losing a brave WBC title challenge to Vitali Klitschko on cuts. The Lebanese born heavyweight rebounded impressively over the next couple of years, beating Oleksei Mazikin, Dennis Bakhtov, Konstantin Airich and Kevin Johnson before again walking into dangerous territory, being stopped by Alexander Povetkin in 2014.. Since then Manuel has lost to every rated fighter he’s faced, most recently suffering a knockout at the hands of current WBC Cruiserweight Champion Mairis Breidis in 2015, facing only unranked Andrei Mazanik and Sefer Seferi since, to earn a championship challenge.
This is only the latest example in the steady trend of devaluating world titles, hurting the historic lineage of a tradition rich division, surprisingly in this instance, by the oldest of the existing governing bodies..
On paper Charr has the more impressive credentials, facing a far more decorated array of opposition than Ustinov, yet appears to have lost a degree of punch resistance of late.. Ustinov is a huge mountain of a man, with adequate fundamentals and above average power, but portrays the look of a man who’s career has been carefully cultivated in an attempt to steer him to this exact position.. It’s as interesting a fight as it is a historic event, and although the victor will be hoisted aloft as the WBA heavyweight champion, there isn’t a man alive who would be gullible enough to recognise either mans claim as serious.

Bizarre scenes at Duco Events press conference.

In a lame attempt to drum up interest in a Joseph Parker v Anthony Joshua unification bout, CEO of Duco Events David Higgins held an impromptu press conference at the Duco headquarters in Auckland NZ yesterday, making what they called a ‘Final Offer’ to Hearn and Joshua.. The evidently low budget presser began with Higgins trying to establish a valid case for Anthony Joshua having a glass jaw, making erratic comparisons to Parker, while both the WBO champion (adorned with championship belt and dressed in cutdown trousers) and Kevin Barry looked on uncomfortably.. Higgins then began to have furniture moved around so those in attendance could watch a budget video production which supposedly contained evidence of Joshua being dropped in combat.. Before the production commenced, Higgins addressed his actions, explaining that many would consider it a disrespectful move, going on to say that it is no more disrespectful than Eddie Hearns initial offer..
The video commenced for a couple of minutes with a glass shattering sound bite (assimilating Joshua’s glass jaw) before a couple of well documented interviews with sparring partners, Lawrence Okolie and Daniel Dubois played out containing verbal assumptions that they’d hurt or dropped the champion in sparring, followed by sketchy clips from Joshua’s amateur bout with Dillian Whyte and last April’s Klitschko fight.. I found the whole thing in bad taste and a tad desperate, considering it’s highly unlikely Parker is even close to the top of Anthony’s list of immediate priorities.. Higgins did go on to say that they were willing to drop to a 35% split of net profits and were willing to take the fight next.. Probably forgetting how little revenue they grossed in the Cojanu fight, not to mention their unorthodox route to Youtube for an even less convincing showing against Hughie Fury only weeks ago.. If the Parker camp are holding press meetings to announce Joshua’s frailties, it gives you the impression that they are banking on the flaws too vigorously, as if they are almost trying to convince themselves that they have a sizeable chance..
There are ways of doing things properly as a promoter, and what David Higgins did was nothing short of embarrassing, especially considering that he has a damn good heavyweight there with a lot more class that this stunt suggests.. I wish them well and hope that in hindsight they might adopt a more professional approach to handling a champion, Joseph Parker deserves that at least.

Devon Alexander returns with impressive win in St Petersburg Fl.

Former IBF Welterweight Champion Devon Alexander 27-4 (14 Ko’s) returned from a two year Ring absence last night to score a unanimous 10 round decision over Walter Castillo 26-5-1 (19 Ko’s) at the Coliseum in downtown St Petersburg Florida.. The talented southpaw looked a whole different beast to the fighter that dropped decisions to Amir Khan and Shawn Porter several years ago, dominating Castillo with well timed accurate punching throughout.. Alexander scored a knockdown at the end of the second round and completely out landed Walter for the majority of the bout.. Alexander took the time out of the ring to clean his life up after a bout with prescription drug dependency and looked every inch a world class fighter with such a clinical return.
Scores were (100-89, 100-89, 96-93.)

On the St Petersburg undercard, undefeated welterweight Miguel Cruz (17-0, 11 KOs) scored a hard earned ten round unanimous decision over David Grayton (15-2-1, 11 KOs) by scores of 96-93 magnanimously. Grayton was down once in the sixth..

Popular Welterweight Gary Antuanne Russell (3-0, 3 KOs) wasted no time, scoring a swift first round Tko over Larry Yanez (4-8-2, 0 KOs). If the name sounds familiar, it’s because Russell is the brother of WBC featherweight champion and namesake Gary Russell.

NY Golden Gloves Champion Michael Coffie turns pro in Bethlehem Pa.

Tomorrow night at the Sands Event Centre in Bethlehem pa, 30 year old 2017 New York Golden Gloves, Super-Heavyweight Champion Michael Polite Coffie takes his first step into the paid ranks when he meets 0-1 Ralph Alexander of Maryland in a 4 round heavyweight attraction.. Alexander lost his only professional outing to rising prospect Hasim Rahman jr in April but is a big man with nothing to lose. Coffie, one of nine siblings, was constantly moved around in the Brooklyn care system after being removed from his drug dependent mother as a 2 year old, before finding a stable life with foster parents in Malverne. Michael moved back to Brooklyn in his teens, and would go on to serve 8 years in the United States Marine Corps, including tours of Afghanistan.. At the mature age of 28, Coffie entered the 2016 New York Golden Gloves, losing a decision to tough Nathan Conja in the finals with literally two months of experience.. Coffie has been trained since 2015 by Khoury Porter, but has more recently added Ramon Rivera and Matty Happaney to the crew.. Michael is an enthusiastic student who is extremely eager to learn, recently returning from training camp with current WBC heavyweight Champion Deontay Wilder in Alabama, there is no higher learning in this sport than sparring with the best.. Michael is promoted by Marshall Kauffman’s King Promotions and is Managed by one of the most knowledgable men in the business, the one time Ring magazine editor in cheif and former New York State Commissioner Randy Gordon, a man who has ultimate faith in the potential of his charge.. Coffie has accomplished a whole lot in a short space of time and has made an instant impression on many who get the chance to see him operate, including former heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield who had only good things to say of the promising fighter..

Coffie v Alexander is part of a Kings Promotion at the Sands Event Center in Bethlehem Pa. doors open at 6pm and will be televised on a delayed telecast on Eleven Sports.

Devon Alexander overcomes personal demons, returns to the ring tonight in Florida.

Former world Welterweight champion Devon Alexander returns to the ring tonight after a two year spell away from the sport when he takes on tough Walter Castillo 26-4-1 on a Warriors boxing promotion at the St Pete Coliseum, in St Petersburg Florida.. The St Louis southpaw’s return is a remarkable one, considering the personal demons he’s had to contend with over the last 5 years.. Back in 2012 whilst preparing to face Marcos Maidana, Alexander suffered a nose injury, following a head clash in sparring. Devon insisted that the injury wasn’t severe enough to postpone the fight so all went ahead as usual, Alexander winning a wide decision.. Soon after the bout, trainer Kevin Cunningham noticed that the swelling was still evident, and upon medical examination a blood clot was discovered and surgically removed.. Cunningham thought that the issue was sorted.. Over the next few months the trainer noticed that Devon wasn’t himself, his reflexes appeared shot and his fitness was poor.. Alexander assured Cunningham that everything was fine but by the instructions of Al Haymon, Devon was sent to be checked out more thoroughly, first at the Cleveland clinic, then secondly by the Mayo clinic, both examinations revealed nothing.. Over the next two years Alexander went on to lose his world title to Shawn Porter, then drop a unanimous decision to Amir Khan before losing to Rank underdog Aaron Martinez strengthening Cunningham’s claims that something was amiss..
An ultimatum was issued by Cunningham, that he would never work with his fighter until he got to the bottom of the mystery, forcing a desperate Alexander to come clean.. Devon had become addicted to painkillers that he’d been prescribed for the nose injury back in 2012.. Alexander checked into a rehabilitation unit soon after and has been clean ever since, accrediting boxing and his family as his motivation for his swift recovery.. Alexander now based at Cunningham's new training facility in Florida insists that he is back to his best form.. Win, lose or draw, his story is remarkable and goes to show how even the most disciplined of athletes can become victims of substance abuse.. Devon last held a version of the Welterweight title back in 2013, his record stands at 26-4 (14 Ko’s)

Francisco Ruiz in critical condition following San Salvador bout, Saturday.

El Salvador’s previously unbeaten welterweight Francisco Ruiz 3-1 unfortunately lapsed into unconsciousness following his 8th round knockout loss on Saturday at the Convention centre in El Cifco, San Salvador and has remained on a critical list since being admitted to hospital. Ruiz was knocked unconscious by Ricardo Cortez 4-0-1 at the end of the 8th session, suffering his first loss. Medics at the scene Stretchered the fighter to an awaiting ambulance, where he was rushed to a nearby emergency unit.. Ruiz v Cortez was part of a ‘KO drugs boxing event’ for the Salvadoran Welterweight title.. Francisco Ruiz had only previously boxed 4 round contests.. unfortunately, specialists described Ruiz situation as unfavourable, keep the young fighter in your prayers..

Unbeaten Alberto Puello and Guillermo Jones victorious in Santa Domingo.

In a well attended Shuan boxing promotions card at the fabulous Jaragua Renaissance resort in Santo Domingo, highly ranked 140 pounder Alberto Puello 13-0 (8 Ko’s) produced a scintillating performance in stopping Mexican Ricardo Gutierrez 11-2-1 (6 Ko’s) at the halfway point of the opening round. The rangy Puello, didn’t waste any time, backing up his opponent before closing the show with a deadly left hook to the body.. Gutierrez wanted no more part in the proceedings and was counted out at 1.28.. The undefeated Dominican retained his WBC Latino and WBA Fedelatin titles and slides towards the WBA’s top 10.

In an interesting Co-feature, former WBA Cruiserweight Champion Guillermo Jones 41-3-2 (30 Ko’s) took on renowned amateur standout Ytalo Perea 10-3 (6 Ko’s) of Ecuador for the vacant Fedelatin heavyweight title.. The contest was surprisingly entertaining, the Former Pan American Gold medalist giving Jones a lot to think about early.. Both men enjoyed sporadic success throughout the middle rounds, with the veteran appearing to take control towards the conclusion of the fight.. Ringside judges saw it as, 107-102, 104-105, 107-102.. surprisingly close, awarding the 45 year old Jones a split decision victory.. Mirageboxing had it slightly wider at 106-103.

The deceptive Panamanian looked relatively fresh, considering he’d not boxed in over 16 months, but looked light years from his days as 190 pound champion.. Jones last world title action was over 4 years ago..

David Haye pulls out of Tony Bellew rematch with torn bicep.

Unfortunate news regarding the December 17th rematch between former two weight world champion David Haye 28-3 (26 Ko’s) and former WBC Cruiserweight Champion Tony Bellew 29-2 (19 Ko’s) scheduled for the O2 in London. David Haye has officially pulled out of the bout which was less than a month away, following a freak accident on a stairclimber in training camp.. Haye who claims to have been 100% fit and the lightest he’s been since his comeback was completing some routine training drills on the stairclimber, something he’s done a thousand other times, unfortunately on this occasion losing his footing. David instinctively grabbed for the handrail, injuring his arm, more specifically tearing his left bicep.. Haye dismissed the rumours that were circulating a few weeks ago that he was suffering from a further Achilles problem, stemming from the initial injury, occurring in their first fight last March.. Tony Bellew and Manager Dave Coldwell are devastated by the news, so much effort and planning had gone into the last 12 weeks and it appears now, it’s all for very little return. Haye had the injury examined and underwent a procedure to repair the damage, but now knows it’s impossible to fulfil the December 17th date. Eternally the optimist Haye insists that the bout will still go ahead on either a March 24th or May 5th rescheduled date.. David lost the first bout, being pulled out in the 11th round after battling both Bellew and his unfortunate Achilles injury for most of the fight. Haye, now trained by Ismael Salas has a lengthy history of injuries, most notably a shoulder issue which postponed his muted bout with Tyson Fury back in 2013. Incidentally, in the last hour, Tyson Fury himself issued a challenge via YouTube to Tony Bellew, offering to fight the Liverpool fighter as soon as May, if the Haye rematch fails to materialise.

Carl Frampton climbs off the floor to outpoint tough Horacio Garcia in Belfast.

Former two weight world champion Carl Frampton 24-1 (14 Ko’s) had a harder than expected battle with Mexico’s Horacio Garcia 33-4-1 (24 Ko’s) climbing off the floor to salvage a unanimous decision victory last night at the SSE Arena in Belfast, Northern Ireland.. Returning to the ring for the first time since his tough loss to Leo Santa Cruz, Frampton looked sharp under the guidance of new trainer Jamie Moore, making a fast start, forcing the visitor onto the back foot early.. However the rugged Mexican began to apply pressure, posing a few questions regarding Carl’s desire in a tough battle.. In round 7, what appeared to be a mere slip by the Irishman was scored a knockdown by referee Victor Loughlin, a ruling that sent an already close bout into a critical situation.. Frampton responded appropriately by finding a higher gear in a highly entertaining final 3 sessions, showing the kind of class that brought him world honours to pull out an important victory..

Judges scorecards read.. 98-93, 97-93, 96-93..

Mirageboxing had the fight slightly closer at 96-94..

Undercard results from the Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas.

On last nights undercard at the Cosmopolitan, Light heavyweight Lionell Thompson (19-4, 11 KOs) scored a ten round unanimous verdict win over previously undefeated Earl Newman (10-1-1, 7 KOs). Newman was forced to take a standing eight-count in the third and was dropped again in the fourth of a fairly one sided battle.. Newman did extremely well to survive the full trip.. Scores were 97-91, 97-91, 96-92.

In a clash between two undefeated featherweights, Tugstsogt Nyambayar (9-0, 8 KOs) a 2012 Olympic medalist, got off the floor from a second round knockdown to out-hustle Harmonito Dela Torre (19-0, 12 KOs) by a unanimous decision over 8. Scores were 79-73, 78-73, 78-73, all for Nyambayar..

TMT light heavyweight Lanell Bellows 16-3-1, stopped Fabiano Pena 15-9-1, in the 7th round of a scheduled 8..

3-0 Middleweight, Oluwafemi Oyeleye scored a 6 round unanimous decision over tough Brandon Adams, 4-5-1..

Julian Williams edges Ishe Smith in Las Vegas.

Former Jr middleweight world title challenger Julian Williams (24-1-1, 15 KOs) scored a ten round unanimous points verdict victory over former IBF jr middleweight champion Ishe Smith (29-9, 12 KOs) last night at the Cosmopolitan resort in Las Vegas. Smith suffered a horrible cut over the left eye in round two, and a second gash in the same area in round 7, both from accidental head clashes.. The 27-year-old Williams was the sharper of the two, landing the more accurate punches, but did allow the wily 39 year old to gather momentum with furious combination punches, to run the youngster close down the stretch.. Both fighters gave everything in a highly competitive, entertaining battle that I had a lot closer than that of the judges scorecards.. Scores were 99-91, 98-92, 97-93, all for Williams.. Mirageboxing scored it 96-95 in favour of Williams with a lot of rounds extremely close. Smith should be pleased with his performance, and although it appears that he is the product of a bygone era, in his 17th year, he still has a lot left to offer.. Williams is a decent, busy fighter, but showed on this occasion, there is still a lot of work to do before he jumps back towards a world championship.

Julian Williams and Ishe Smith meet tonight in Las Vegas.

Tonight at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas two extremely talented fighters meet in a crossroads bout with significant importance.. Ishe Smith seems to have been around forever debuting back in 2000, whilst hungry young Julian Williams has much to prove with just 7 years professional experience, yet defeat for either man, could prove costly to their respective futures.
I’ve known Ishe Smith for over 20 years, I’ve watched this young man come from the rough streets of North Las Vegas to the pinnacle of his chosen sport battling demons along the way.. In 2004 with a crisp looking record of 15-0, Ishe made a high profile appearance in the popular Contender tv series, losing only by split decision to eventual winner Sergio Mora.. Ishe would win 6 of his next 8, before in 2009 losing a unanimous decision to Future Middleweight Champion Daniel Jacobs for the NABO title he once held.. a year later following a loss to Fernando Guerrero, Ishe went on a 3 fight winning streak, signed to Mayweather Promotions and achieved a lifelong dream, scoring a majority decision over Cornelius Bundrage to claim the IBF world championship, becoming the first Nevada born fighter to win a world title.
Unfortunately Smith would lose the title 7 months later with a lacklustre showing against Carlos Molina, followed by a couple of high profile losses to Erislandy Lara and Vanes Martirosyan ending 2015 with a record of 27-8.. Smith rebounded with two solid wins since then, first over tough Tommy Rainone in 2015, and more recently a MD over Frank Galarza in September of 2016.. A year out of the ring is not ideal, but in Ishes case can be dismissed, he’s rarely out of the Gym and is the model pro.. Smith has had to endure horrendous personal tragedy over the last year and it’s a testament to him, that he is jumping back into such a critical bout..

By 2013 Julian Williams was 14-0 with all but a 2011 draw with Francisco Santana blemishing his record, when he would challenge for unbeaten Hugo Centeno jr for the vacant WBC international title in Las Vegas, a fight that was scored a no contest following an unfortunate clash of heads.. During the next 3 years Williams would amass a 9 fight winning streak, picking up and defending the WBC continental americas title, before meeting Jermall Charlo in a challenge for the IBF title in the December of last year, suffering three knockdowns before being knocked out in the fifth round in what would be a damaging first pro loss..
Julian returned last June with an impressive 7th round stoppage of once beaten Joshua Conley in Ohio, which leads us to this fight.. The scars of defeat for Williams are still relatively raw, and Ishe Smith is nobody’s push over, with only career losses coming at the hands of the very best..

Julian is 23-1-1 (15 Ko’s) while Smith is 29-8 (12 Ko’s) and while Smith is 12 years Williams’ senior he is also vastly more experienced.. it’s an intriguing fight.

Legendary fight doctor, Ferdie Pacheco passes aged 89.

On another sad note, it’s my regret to report that former Muhammad Ali cornerman / Physician and celebrated boxing commentator Ferdie Pacheco has passed away at his home in Florida at the age of 89.

Born in Miami of Spanish / Cuban descent, Ferdie would make a habit of frequenting the legendary 5th Street Gym in the 1950s, fixing cuts for many of Angelo Dundee’s fighters in exchange for fight tickets.. Pacheco however came to prominence working with Ali throughout most of the Greatest’s championship triumphs, but will be most remembered for his honest compassion for his charge and his high profile disapproval of Ali’s ill fated 1980 bout with Larry Holmes.. Pacheco later worked as a commentator with the tv network NBC, hosting their Great Fights series, before joining Showtime as a guest analyst in the 1980s and 90’s, frequently opting to work Mexican fight cards to utilise his ability to speak fluent Spanish.. Ferdie disappeared from the public eye in the mid 2000’s to spend time with his family, and envelope himself in his writing and pursue his passion for painting.
Ferdie resided in his native Miami with his wife, Luisita, who has co-authored a number of his books and acted as his official photographer and manager, along with three daughters; Dawn Marie, Tina Louise, Evelyn and a son, Ferdie J. Pacheco, an accomplished astrologer to the stars.
The fight doctor will be sorely missed..

Jack Blackburn.. a modern day boxing genius.

Jack Blackburn had an extensive career as a fighter but is honored in the Hall of Fame for his achievements as a trainer, most notably of Joe Louis. Charles Blackburn was Born in Versailles, Kentucky in 1883, the son of a minister.  Blackburn would later settle in Indiana where he first began boxing. Jack would soon move to Pennsylvania first to Pittsburgh and then Philadelphia to further his boxing career. Blackburn had a great Jab, quick reflexes and a powerful left hook, and weighed only 135 pounds, but would often fight much larger opposition.  Jack was competitive against greats like Joe Gans and Sam Langford (who considerably outweighed him ), and gave Philadelphia Jack O'Brien no end of trouble before settling for a no-decision in 1908.

In January 1909, Blackburn's career was halted when out of character he would set off on a furious rampage with a gun in Philly following a dispute...  Blackburn would kill three people, one being his wife..   He was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to ten to fifteen years in the penetentiary. Blackburn proved a model prisoner, gave boxing instructions to the warden and his children and was released on good behavior after four and a half years.

Blackburn returned to the ring, boxing both Ed ("Gunboat") Smith and Harry Greb before retiring from prize fighting in 1923 after losing by knockout to Panama Joe Gans and Ray Pelkey. Blackburn's career record was a stellar 38-3-12 with nearly 50 no-decisions, although claimed to have fought 385 times.

Blackburn would then become a trainer and guide Sammy Mandell to the lightweight title in 1926. Blackburn also trained Bud Taylor, who won the bantamweight title in 1927. Blackburn worked closely for a short time with the great Jersey Joe Walcott.

Blackburn then met Joseph Louis Barrow..  at first Jack was apprehensive about Louis, predicting that a black heavyweight would have limited opportunities. Nevertheless, Blackburn worked tirelessly with Louis, schooling him every step of the way in every aspect of fighting, focus on balance and accuracy. According to Eddie Futch, Blackburn changed Louis from a "box and move" type to a more aggressive fighter. Though Blackburn was tough on Louis, the two grew close and called each other "Chappie." Louis later said, "Chappie made a fighter out of me. He was my closest friend."  Blackburn was a huge disciplinarian, one specific time during a public workout, Blackburn would scowl at the onlooking press and direct Joe to continue with what he'd call "The real pain" behind locked doors, in private..

Blackburn later had issues with drink, along with bouts of arthritis during the time he trained Louis. In 1935, he was indicted for perjury and manslaughter in a case that was later dropped. Soon Blackburn's health would catch up with him and in 1942, he died of a heart attack...  One of the modern day greats...

Anthony Dirrell scores anticlimactic 6 round TD over Denis Douglin in Flint.

In a rather unsatisfactory affair, former WBC Super-Middleweight champion Anthony Dirrell 31-1-1 (24 Ko’s) returned from a 10 month hiatus to scrape a 6 round technical decision over the well travelled Denis Douglin 20-6 (13 Ko’s) last night at the Dort Federal Events centre in Flint Michigan.. Dirrell hurt the slow starting Douglin in the opener, landing the more accurate shots, but allowed the adopted Las Vegan to fiddle his way into the bout.. Douglin did very well to hang in there with the technically more gifted former champion, but was docked a point in the 6th for manhandling Dirrell. Late in the sixth an accidental head-but opened a cut above Dirrell’s left eye, upon inspection referee Frank Garza ruled that the fight go to the scorecards.. Scores were surprisingly close, 48-47 twice, with a third card at a more accurate 49-46.. Neither man will be happy with the result, Dirrell failing to impress upon his long awaited ring return and Douglin once again dropping a decision..

Don’t expect Joshua v Wilder anytime soon.. The reason.

The romantic idea that a momentous collision between Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder will materialise in the coming months sounds mouthwatering to those of us who are eager for a unified king of the heavyweights, however beyond the posturing and call outs, there are many reasons that lead me to believe that the fight is far from reality.. Anthony Joshua 20-0 (20 Ko’s) has been champion for only half the time of his American counterpart yet is a more universally recognised household name, mainly attributed to his April 2017 bout with Wladimir Klitschko. Deontay has a huge personality and an impressive set of credentials, but outside of his native Tuscaloosa he is scantly recognised by anyone outside of boxing circles, a fact that is partially attributed to lack of network tv exposure and the lack of marquee name opposition.. Following his recent rematch knockout of the overmatched Bermaine Stiverne, Wilder took the opportunity to call out Anthony Joshua’s name, questioning whether the unified champion was ready for what he regards as a test, making it appear as though he’s eager to make the monumental clash happen.. In public Wilder is portraying himself as the initiator of the negotiations, although in the privacy of the deal breaking, he’s actually pricing himself out, making it clear to all internally involved, that he wants no part of this fight becoming an immediate reality.. The heavyweight championship of the world is a business, and without the numbers balancing, nothing springs to life.. The numbers involved in this case are outbalanced.. Anthony Joshua in two fights has grossed £30 Million and sold over 140,000 tickets, regardless of pay per views.. He’s a public icon in the Uk and would more than likely be the major attraction if the bout were to sail this side of the pond.. in comparison, Deontays numbers are embarrassing.. In over two years he has barely faced a recognisable opponent and in his last two defences, has barely grossed £2 Million and had sold a poultry 11.000 tickets even including an appearance in his own home town.. Although in the infancy of negotiations for a clash with Joshua, Wilder is demanding a 50/50 purse split, a demand which carries literally no weight in business terms.. Joshua holds the cards.. He’s currently the linear, unified champion with a magnetic pulling power universally and a financial portfolio to outgun anything Wilder has achieved in a lengthier reign.. Eddie Hearn knows full well who has the upper hand in the negotiations and has no intention of allowing Wilder or promoter Dibella anything close to their current demands... If Wilder continues with his unreasonable demands, he solely will be the reason we don’t see this bout anytime soon, a shame because with all business issues aside, both fighters are relatively evenly matched and with a reasonably agreeable purse split could top both men’s career earnings to date, plus heighten both fighters popularity.. Lets hope this fight isn’t the Lewis v Bowe of the millennium.

Las Vegas Cutman Rafael Garcia passes aged 88.

Extremely sad news to hear about the passing of veteran Las Vegas Cutman/second Rafael Garcia aged 88.. Garcia was Mexican born but made Las Vegas his home over 40 years ago, working with fighters like Roberto Duran, Alexis Arguello and Wilfredo Gomez. In the mid 90’s Garcia worked as caretaker, manager at the Top Rank Gym on Industrial road in Las Vegas, working as house cuts-man to most of their fighters.. I remember running into Rafael into almost every gym in town at one point or another, more specifically Nevada Partners Gym on Lake mead and MLK, and The Golden Gloves in North Las Vegas.. When Floyd Mayweather left Top Rank to set up his own Mayweather Promotions company and Gym, Rafael followed him and became a significant member of Floyds inner circle, wrapping the champions fragile hands and fulfilling cutman duties as well as maintaining a positive vibe around the camp. Garcia was not only the best at what he did, he was liked by everyone and cherished by those closest to him.. Rafael was Godfather to former Welterweight Champion Jesse Vargas and held a special relationship with the young fighter, there isn’t a fighter that came through the valley that never crossed paths with Garcia, he offered advice to trainers and fighters alike, with 70 years wealth of knowledge.. Fellow Cutman Jacob Duran said it best when he put Rafael in the same bracket as all time great Cutmen, Al Gavin, Eddie Aliano and Chuck Bodak, he will be sorely missed by everyone.. Rafael was stung hundreds of times by a swarm of African Bees earlier in the year, but had more recently suffered a heart attack and been diagnosed with Leukaemia.. He always appeared jovial and upbeat in the Gym, but was privately getting extremely tired and slowed down by health issues, Said Vargas, he was seriously ill, but rarely wanted anyone to know, it was the kind of man he was.. Rafael was the best. Rafael Garcia was inducted into this years Nevada boxing hall of fame and will be remembered as one of the States most prominent boxing figures..

Undefeated Jarrell Miller stops tough Mariusz Wach in 9.

The extremely colourful undefeated heavyweight contender Jarrell Miller 20-0 (18 Ko's) stayed on course for a title shot as he pounded out a ninth round stoppage of former world title challenger Mariusz Wach 33-3 (17 Ko's) at the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale New York on Saturday evening. Miller, a deceptively busy 283lbs, outworked the 6 foot 8 pole, who unfortunately appeared to lack ambition. Ringside physicians began to take a close look at Wach between rounds from the 7th round on, although not visibly shaken, he did seem to be shipping a lot of head shots, coercing the corner to call a halt midway through the ninth.. Miller coming in 15 pounds lighter than his last outing looked impressive although self admittedly lacked the snap he had in the Washington bout, possibly due to overtraining.. Wach is always an awkward guy to stop and the result is impressive regardless.. The usually outspoken Miller, now with Eddie Hearns Matchroom promotions, is looking to a future meeting with Dillian Whyte, a bout that could actually materialise..

Liam Smith repeats victory over Liam Williams, majority points.

In a highly anticipated return match of an inconclusive cuts ending last April, former WBO light middleweight champion Liam Smith 26-1-1 (14 Ko's) scored a majority decision over tough Liam Williams 16-2-1 (11 Ko's) at the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle last night. Williams got off to the better start with more accurate punching, but allowed the methodical former champion to out-hustle him through the middle rounds, many of the rounds were extremely close, with a possible case for either man being awarded the winner.. The tempo of the bout however was controlled by Smith and at the verdict no one complained... Scores were.. 116-112, 117-111 and a 114-114 draw.. Us at Mirageboxing scored it a 115-115 draw, with a lot of razor thin rounds..
Smith is now heading the queue to box for the WBO championship that will soon be vacated by Miguel Cotto..

Nathan Gorman stops unbeaten Mohamed Soltby in 5.

Unbeaten heavyweight prospect Nathan Gorman 10-0 (8 Ko's) took an important step forward in his career tonight, beating the previously undefeated Mohamed Soltby 13-0 (8 Ko's) in five rounds at the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastl, picking up the vacant WBC international Silver title in the process.. Gorman, who was originally scheduled to meet fellow unbeaten Brit Nick Webb, looked patient but purposeful against the imposing Russian, slowly applying a steady pressure throughout the first three rounds.. A minute into the 5th, a right hand shook the import, causing him to turn away.. Gorman fired a cluster of shots which dropped Soltby.. Gorman seized the opportunity and moved in to complete the job as Soltby began to lose his composure, a single clean right hand forcing Marcus McDonnell to call a halt to the action with Soltby all at sea..
Gorman at 18 stone has deceptive fitness and extremely fast hands.. Word has it that Nathan more than holds his own in sparring with Daniel Dubois a fighter that Gorman and mentor Ricky Hatton continually eye as a future opponent..

Wilder destroys Stiverne in 1.

WBC world heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder 39-0 (38 Ko's) took out his frustrations from the last 12 months by demolishing former champion Bermaine Stiverne 25-3-1 (21 Ko's) in a rematch on Saturday night in Brooklyn. A purposeful Wilder started boldly, establishing the jab, while a comparatively sedate Stiverne postured and feinted.. The breakthrough came halfway through the round when a vicious one-two dropped Stiverne heavily. The Haitian arose comfortably, shrugging off the knockdown, before walking into a further barrage that forced a second knockdown.. With Stiverne visibly stricken, Wilder moved in recklessly and pounded out a third and final knockdown to close the show, having to be almost pulled away by referee Arthur Mercante, leaving the broken Stiverne prone through the ropes..
Wilder, who had previously made mortal threats towards his opponent was refreshingly complimentary after the bout, thanking Stiverne for having the courage to step into the ring a second time, clean, unlike the rest of his previous opponents. Wilder however did make his intentions clear, "I want Joshua, no excuses mate, are you up to that test..?"

Dmitry Bivol knocks out Broadhurst in one, defends WBA title.

In the featured bout of the evening in Monte Carlo, WBA light heavyweight title holder Dmitry Bivol 12-0 (10 Ko's) scored a concise one punch first round knockout over WBA rated number 10, Trent Broadhurst of Australia 20-2 (12 Ko's). Both men started fast, in what looked like the beginnings of a tactical bout.. Broadhurst touched down from what appeared to be a clash of heads midway through the session (scored a knockdown by referee Howard Foster) and moments later was laid out cold by a short right hand delivered effortlessly by the champion.. Broadhurst came to his senses quickly, only to realise his challenge was over..

Agit Kabayel scores his biggest win to date with a Majority decision over Derek Chisora, defends Euro title.

In a bid for the European heavyweight championship, former holder and world title challenger Derek Chisora 27-8 (19 Ko's) travelled to Monte Carlo to Challenge current holder Agit Kabayel 17-0 (12 Ko's) a Turkish born German national.. Unfortunately what should have been a routine challenge on paper, became a tough ask, as the unproven Turk boxed superbly in an effort that far belied his inexperience.. Chisora set a predictable pace and found himself being outmanoeuvred for the first half of the bout.. By the time Derek sprung to life, it was too much an uphill struggle to play catchup.. Regardless, Chisora battled back and ran the final 3 rounds to the wire, forcing the young champion to dig deep to the final bell.. Despite Dereks late rally, many ringsiders had Kabayel a comfortable winner, although the three scoring judges had it a more narrow affair, with Kabayel retaining his belt with scores of 115-113, 115-114 with one judge scoring a draw 114-114..

Nigerian Olympian Ajagba makes 3rd pro appearance on Saturdays Brooklyn card.

Nigerian 2016 Olympian Efe Ajagba has his third pro outing this weekend, down the card at the Barclays Centre in Brooklyn.. Ajagba 2-0 (2 Ko's) missed out on a medal in Rio, but showed glimpses of his power with knockouts in each of his winning bouts.. Efe was a Bronze medalist in the 2014 Commonwealth games in Glasgow and a 2015 Gold medalist in the All Africa Games. Ajagba has already fought twice this year, beating Luke Lyons and Tyrell Herndon, both by stoppage.. On Saturday he will face Rodney Hernandez 10-6-2, and will get his first close up look at a Heavyweight Championship event, an experience that will only add to the fighters taste for future glory.. Nigeria have a rich history of heavyweights, with guys like David Izoneratei, Duncan Dokiwari, David Defiagbon and Ike Ibeabuchi all falling short of title honours, with only Samuel Peter claiming a portion back in 2008. Ajagba now based on US soil has every chance of continuing a great tradition and perhaps winning a championship of his own one day..

Weights from the Barclays centre Brooklyn.

Deontay Wilder 220lbs. v Bermane Stiverne 254lbs
(WBC Heavyweight Championship.)

Sergey Lipinets 139lbs v Akihiro Kondo 139lbs
(IBF jr Welterweight Championship)

Shawn Porter 146lbs v Adrian Granados 146lbs
(WBC Silver Welterweight belt)

Dominic Breazeale 255lbs v Eric Molina 240lbs
(WBC Heavyweight Eliminator)

Iago Kiladze 223lbs v Pedro Rodriguez 260lbs
Sean Monaghan 178lbs v Evert Bravo 175lbs

PBC Boxing from The Barclays Center, Brooklyn, NY
Promoted by DiBella Entertainment
Broadcast by Showtime.

Wilder v Stiverne 2.. Tense final presser..

WBC Heavyweight title holder Deontay Wilder and former champion Bermane Stiverne came head to head for the final official time on Thursday at the last press conference at the Edison Ballroom, before they meet in a PBC, Showtime main event rematch on Saturday, at the Barclays Center, in Brooklyn..

Lou Dibella opened the conference with a stage setting summary of why both fighters are once again meeting, explaining the shenanigans that have hampered Wilders career, regarding Drug test cheats, notably Ortiz and Povetkin.. "These guys take performance enhancing drugs before fights purely because they don't have faith in themselves going into a fight with the champion, clean.. "
Dibella was very clear about the importance of the fight, referring to Stiverne as a highly dangerous obstacle, who can't be overlooked..

Don King was then introduced to the podium, gregariously rambling on about how he is introducing the 'real' Bermaine Stiverne to Deontay Wilder on Saturday, stating that he faced a mere doppelgänger the last time they met, in reference to Stiverne's dehydration.. King went even further, paying great respects to how Wilder has been a credit to Alabama, a state where his own parents were raised, but emphasised, that Stiverne would regain the titles, and that Don King productions door would always be open to Wilder if he considered returning to the ring following the defeat.. King then introduced the former champion who was celebrating his birthday with a comical rendition of 'Happy Birthday.' 

Bermaine appeared stoic, before exclaiming "Now let's get down to business.."
“Deontay Wilder has been trying to duck me. He’s been giving a lot of excuses about my career. He should be happy if I’ve been inactive. He should be jumping in the air. Everyone knows that means he’s scared. He knows what time it is.
“He already gave me his best. I had nothing last fight. But now I’m a very dangerous man. Everyone here knows what time it is.
“I feel great and I feel strong. There will be no excuses this time. I can guarantee you this. I’m 100 percent this time.
“Deontay said he fears for my life. Well, I don’t fear for his life. I’m going to do whatever it takes to grab that title. And I’ll walk away with a smile on my face.
“You caught me sleeping last time. Nobody is going to be sleeping this time. I’m going to be on you all night. It’s over for you.
“This is a fighter that I took him the longest rounds in any of his fights. He had never gone past seven or eight.
“He’s like a third round or fourth round knockout guy depending on the level of his opponent. Anyone that would be a decent or strong opponent, he’s not going to last. From rounds six through 12 he didn’t do much. Everything was in the first six.
“His last fights that I’ve watched, I haven’t seen any progress.
“Saturday, November 4 I will be two-time heavyweight champion of the world. No one can stop me. He can smile all he wants. But on Saturday I’m taking that belt home with me.”

Wilder then approached the stage..

“Stiverne was the only man to survive the ‘Alabama Slammer’ and avoid a knockout. When I knock him out, then nobody will be able to say they made it through against me. He was nothing but a lot of lumps and excuses after the first fight.
“It’s been a long road for me. I’ve had my ups and my downs. The ups I’ve celebrated, but the downs have hurt the most. It’s all led me to here. All I ever wanted to do is prove to the world that I am the best. I am the baddest. I hit the hardest. I am the most feared. My record speaks for itself.
“Winner takes all. I am a man of my word. We’ve heard Bermane Stiverne say these same things before. We’ve heard it all before. What happened the first time? Everybody knows. Hopefully he doesn’t get dehydrated this time.
“This just turned up into a whole other level. The ambulance better be ready. The medical teams better be ready. The referee better be ready. They better have that towel to be able to throw it in because every blow is going to mean something. This just got even more personal.
“There’s nothing different that he can bring to the table. He brought everything he could bring the first time. He brought all his tricks – all his power. There’s nothing he’s going to be able to do this time. The only thing he’s going to be able to do is pick his spot on the ground where he’s going to lay at.”
“I do my talking and my walking in that ring. That’s what it’s all about. That’s why we’re here. November 4 the truth with reveal itself. That’s when it counts. When Deontay Wilder speaks, I mean what I say. But I’m going to show you, instead of tell you, on Saturday night.
“This will be an electrifying fight. That belt isn’t going anywhere. I will unify the division. I will be the undefeated, undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.”

In the middle of his address, Wilder handed Stiverne a birthday gift bag..
After several moments of wrapping up the conference, and head to head photo opportunities, Deontay grabbed the mic and told the press, "For y'all that want to know what's in the bag, it's Pedialyte for his dehydration."

The co-main event features former world champion Shawn Porter taking on Adrian Granados in a welterweight world title eliminator, and unbeaten Sergey Lipinets battling Japan’s Akihiro Kondo for the vacant IBF Junior Welterweight World Championship, making it a three-fight Showtime Championship Boxing telecast beginning live at 9 p.m. Eastern and 6 p.m. Pacific.

Also on the card in a WBC final eliminator, former world title challengers Dominick Breazeale and Eric Molina fight in a 12 rounder at heavyweight.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000.
Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.