BOXING'S BIG FIGHT HISTORY STEEPED IN MEXICAN INDEPENDENCE DAY TRADITION

Mexico's #1 Fighter Juan Manuel "Dinamita" Marquez to Follow in the Footsteps of Mexican Warriors In and Out of the Ring

Mexico City, Mexico (September 11) - On September 16, 1810 Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a well-respected Mexican priest, rang a bell at his small church calling Mexican fighters to arms. This began the Independence War against Spain; thereafter marking September 16 as El Grito de Independencia (Mexican Independence Day). This year, on September 19, three days after Mexicans around the world celebrate Mexican Independence Day, a bell will ring at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas to start a 12-round battle between six-time world champion in five weight divisions Floyd "Money" Mayweather and five-time world champion in three weight divisions Juan Manuel "Dinamita" Marquez. The bout will be produced and distributed live on HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at

9 p.m./6 p.m. PT.

For years, Mexican fighters have battled in the ring on Mexican Independence Day weekend, following in the two-century old footsteps of their ancestors. This year is no exception. Marquez, the number one Mexican fighter in the world and number two pound-for-pound, finds great motivation and pride in representing his country in the most important fight of his career on a day entrenched in Mexican and boxing tradition.

"It is an honor to fight on Mexican Independence Day weekend," said Marquez. "To be given the chance to fight on this important day in the history of my country for the third time in my career, is something I do not take lightly. I understand the magnitude of this fight, but I don't feel pressure; I feel motivation. On September 19, I'm going to be one hundred percent focused and make my country proud."

Almost exactly a year ago, Marquez further cemented his already hallowed place among great Mexican fighters when he became the first man to knock out Joel Casamayor, earning Marquez his fifth world title.

"I have trained many great Mexican fighters," said Marquez' trainer Nacho Beristain. "There is something about fighting on Mexican Independence Day that drives him to reach higher and try harder. The fact that Juan Manuel is fighting the biggest fight of his career on Mexican Independence Day is something that is a truly an advantage because it gives him the extra push to succeed. I know he will be ready and will be victorious on September 19."

Beristain knows a thing or two about training Mexican fighters, having a roster of current and former Mexican greats that includes Rafael Marquez (Juan Manuel's brother), Daniel Zaragoza, Humberto Gonzalez and Ricardo Lopez. He also trains Vicente Escobedo, who will fight Michael Katsidis on the Mayweather vs. Marquez televised undercard.

Golden Boy Promotions President Oscar de la Hoya spent many of his 45 professional bouts fighting on Mexican Independence Day. Now as a promoter, he is looking to Marquez to carry on the tradition he once upheld.

"Mexican Independence Day weekend is rich in boxing history," said De La Hoya. "It is a date that I fought on many times in my career, and I am thrilled to pass the torch to Juan Manuel and see him carry it to victory and continue this great tradition."

"Mayweather is in for one tough fight on September 19," De La Hoya continued. "Marquez will have the whole country of Mexico behind him and that is a lot of pressure on Mayweather."

When the bell rings on September 19, Juan Manuel Marquez will carry the hopes of his fellow countrymen into combat as he seeks Mexican Independence Day glory against Floyd Mayweather just as his forefathers did almost two hundred years ago.

MEXICAN INDEPENDENCE DAY FIGHT APPENDIX

Other Mexican fighters who have fought during Independence Day weekend are some of the most respected champions in the sport's modern era. They include Julio Cesar Chavez, Marco Antonio Barrera and Erik Morales, all three of whom won world titles and established themselves as pound-for-pound greats.

Chavez, a Mexican legend and perhaps the most important figure in Mexican boxing history, fought professionally from 1980-2005. In 1984, Chavez won his first world championship on Mexican Independence Day weekend, stopping fellow countryman Mario Martinez. That began a tradition in Chavez' career that peaked in the early 90's when he fought on Independence Day for five consecutive years against the likes of such fighters as Pernell Whitaker and Meldrick Taylor.

"I feel proud to have been part of fights that gave fans such great memories while celebrating Mexico's Independence, such as my fight against Meldrick Taylor," said Chavez. "That night, I was filled with great pride knowing that all of my people were watching and that the fight was taking place as part of the celebration of Mexican Independence Day."

Barrera, who is one of Mexico's most popular fighters, is best known for his legendary trilogy against Morales and his tremendous victory over then-undefeated and heavily favored Prince Naseem Hamed in 2001. Barrera fought on Independence Day weekend three times against Robbie Peden, Ricardo Rocky Juarez and Jesse Magana.

"It was an honor for me to fight on this weekend because I knew that all Mexican fans were watching very closely," Mexico City's Barrera said. "It has always been an important date that belongs to the most important Mexican fighters."

Morales is also one of the most important fighters in the history of Mexican boxing. With his unique style and brilliant performances, he was able to both win the love of Mexican fans and maintain the respect of his adversaries. Morales had one fight on Independence Day Weekend, a thrilling fourth-round TKO of Junior Jones that took place in a bull ring in Morales' hometown of Tijuana.

"Even though I only fought once on this weekend, I always knew that it would be a fight that would be remembered because it took place on such an important date," Morales said. "It remains a strong connection between the sport and Mexican history. There will always a hard-fought battle that fans won't forget when a Mexican fights during the celebration of Mexican Independence."

Gabriel Ruelas, a native of Yerbabuena, Jalisco, Mexico, was another important Mexican World Champion who fought on Independence Day Weekend.

"It was an honor for me to fight during the celebration of Mexico's Independence and I will always remember it as an important moment in my career during which I hope I was a worthy representative of Mexican boxing," Ruelas said.

Erubey Carmona, a native of Acapulco, Guerrero, Mexico, is credited with starting the tradition of Mexican fighters representing their country on this weekend. His epic battle against Mando Ramos took place during the celebration in 1972.

"For me it was very special and so important to fight on September 15 in 1972," Carmona said. "I remember shouting for joy after I beat Ramos and captured a world title in front of all the Mexicans fans in the Los Angeles Coliseum. That win wasn't just for me; it was for Mexico as well."

# # #

Mayweather vs. Marquez: "Number One/Numero Uno," is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions in association with Marquez Boxing Promotions and is sponsored by Cerveza Tecate, AT&T, Quaker State, Dewalt Tools, Affliction Clothing and Southwest Airlines. The explosive evening of boxing will take place Saturday, Sept. 19 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nev.

Tickets priced at $1,000, $750, $600, $300 and $150, not including applicable service charges, are on sale now and limited to 10 per person and ticket sales at $150 are limited to two (2) per person with a total ticket limit of 10 per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also are available for purchase at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets previously purchased for the July 18 date will be honored.

The Mayweather vs. Marquez pay-per-view telecast, beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, has a suggested retail price of $49.95, will be produced and distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View® and will be available to more than 71 million pay-per-view homes. The telecast will be available in HD-TV for those viewers who can receive HD. HBO Pay-Per-View®, a division of Home Box Office, Inc., is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For Mayweather vs. Marquez fight week updates, log on to www.hbo.com.

HBO's® fast-moving reality series "Mayweather/Marquez 24/7" returns with an all new episode on Saturday, Sept. 12 at 10:00 pm ET/PT. The four-episode series chronicles the preparations and back stories of both fighters as they train for their September 19 pay-per-view showdown. Episodes one and two are available on HBO ON DEMAND®.

Source: http://philboxing.com/news/story-27239.html

The hidden side of Floyd Mayweather Jr.

LAS VEGAS – The midday sun is searing. Shade is all but impossible to find. The temperature inches toward 110 degrees and the heat radiating from the concrete is visible to the naked eye.

A reed-thin man with a scraggly salt-and-pepper beard filled with burrs shuffles slowly across a busy street, not particularly concerned about the traffic. He has been sweating, and with the wind blowing, the dust sticks to his face.

He makes his way toward a large black truck parked alongside a road in one of the city’s poorest areas. It’s obvious that, even if he doesn’t have a clue who’s inside the truck, he knows what it represents.

The man, who said his name is Zeke, said he is not sure if he’s hotter, hungrier or thirstier. Clearly, though, he could use a meal. He’s about 6-foot tall but doesn’t look like he weighs 150 pounds, unless you count the 20-pound sack draped over his shoulder.

He is among the first of the 100 or so homeless people who seem to appear out of nowhere to reach the truck. The door on the back of the truck loudly clatters up and an athletic young man bounds effortlessly into the back.

Zeke sees him and sticks his hand out. Floyd Mayweather Jr., one of the most controversial figures in boxing, bends down and hands him a bag with a sandwich, a piece of fruit and some chips as well as a bottle of water.

Zeke throws the fruit and the chips into the bag he drags along with him but devours the sandwich in seconds. He gulps down the water and heads to the line again.

He gets back to the front, but Mayweather recognizes him, smiles and declines to offer him a second lunch at that point.

“Let’s make sure we have enough for everyone, then I’ll take care of you,” Mayweather says softly. “I won’t forget you.”

Disappointed, Zeke shuffles away. He asks a nearby observer to stand in line for him and at least get him another bottle of water.

“That’ll kill you,” he says motioning toward the fiery orange sun.

Zeke hangs around for the half hour or so it takes for Mayweather and his cohorts to hand the lunches to those who stand in line. When the line is clear, Mayweather scans the area and spots Zeke. He shouts and then tosses him another bag of food and a bottle of water.

A few hours earlier, standing in his office, Mayweather explained why he would risk spending so much time in the strength-sapping sun with a bout that will land him an eight-figure payday nearing rapidly.

This is a regular routine and, fight or no fight, Mayweather is out on a weekly basis to feed the homeless. He heard from a friend about the large homeless population in Clark County and the appalling conditions the men and women live in. Mayweather was dismayed when he observed them himself.

He told his manager, Leonard Ellerbe, he needed to do something immediately.

“I’ve been blessed by God,” Mayweather said. “No doubt about it. God gave me this talent and I’ve been able to build a better life for myself and my family. The people out there, the ones we’re going to see, they haven’t been so lucky. They need someone to give them a break, but no one wants to bother with them. People forget about them and pretend like they don’t exist. I guess they think if they act like there is no problem it will go away. But it won’t. Someone needs to help, so I do my part.”

Ready for return

The unbeaten welterweight, who was a virtual unanimous choice as the best boxer in the world prior to his sudden retirement in June 2008, will return to the ring on Sept. 19 when he meets Juan Manuel Marquez in an HBO Pay-Per-View bout at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

Mayweather remains one of the sport’s most polarizing figures. He flaunts his money – the jewelry he wears on his wrist and around his neck costs more than many of his fans’ homes – and he’s reviled by many who dislike his outlandish spending, loose tongue and exceptionally high opinion of himself that he’s so quick to share.

He’s only recently reconciled with his father after nearly a decade of public dispute. His former promoter, Bob Arum, makes no effort to conceal his disdain for him. In an interview with Fanhouse.com, Arum blasted Mayweather’s fighting style and said “People know Mayweather now. They know the son of a gun doesn’t fight. He fights scared. … Outside the ring, yeah, he shoots up cars and he does other things like that and he entertains. But in the ring, he’s not an entertaining fighter.”

Arum was referring to an incident last month in which shots were fired at a local roller-skating rink. Mayweather’s 2008 Rolls Royce was at the scene and police later searched his home. Though police say Mayweather is not a suspect, they removed two handguns (one of which was a Smith & Wesson), a holster, three magazines containing live rounds and a bulletproof vest.

Ellerbe said the guns were registered to two of Mayweather’s bodyguards. Despite Mayweather’s denial of having any involvement, the incident has contributed to the perception many hold of him as a hoodlum.

But Ellerbe, who is also his best friend, said Mayweather is far from that.

“There’s the entertainer, the public figure, but the Floyd Mayweather I know is a kind and caring and thoughtful person,” Ellerbe said. “You hear all this stuff, but we all know where it’s coming from. It’s jealousy. Any time anything happens, they want to blame Floyd. It’s ridiculous.”

Mayweather clearly doesn’t care for the negative perceptions of him, but he also refuses to attempt to polish his image in a bid to curry favor.

He’ll tell you vehemently that he is no hoodlum, no petty criminal, no bad guy, but neither will he change who he is just for the sake of impressing middle-aged white men in suits. As a way of explanation, he makes no bones about his affinity for visits to Las Vegas’ topless clubs.

“There are guys at HBO [and] they tell me I shouldn’t go to the strip clubs,” Mayweather said. “Why not? I’m an adult. I’m not married. I’m not committing any crimes. And you know what? I have been in strip clubs and I’ve seen a lot of the same men in there who talk about me and who tell me not to go in there. They’re in there and they want to tell me I shouldn’t go? At least I’m honest about what I do.”

True to himself

When Mayweather turned professional, he was viewed as the next Sugar Ray Leonard. He tried that approach for the first half of his career but didn’t feel it ever fit.

He has become more successful since he invented “Money Mayweather” and projected more of a brash, anti-establishment persona. And despite all his good works, that’s the way it’s going to stay, he says.

“Why should I have to act differently just to please someone who doesn’t know me?” Mayweather said. “The people who know me know who I am and the person I am. If you want to know about me, ask them. I’m a guy who loves my family, who wants to do the best for my kids, and if I can do something to help someone who hasn’t been as truly blessed as I have been, I’ll do it. Ask the people who know me what I’m really like.”

Nate Jones, Mayweather’s teammate on the 1996 U.S. Olympic team, is one of those who knows Mayweather the man, not Mayweather the public figure. They first met, Jones said, at the Golden Gloves in Michigan in 1994. Jones instantly disliked him.

“I heard this kid running off at the mouth, every day at the weigh-in,” Jones said. “Every morning you weigh in and every morning, I’d go down to weigh in and here’s this kid just talking about himself. He wouldn’t shut up. I just didn’t like him because of his mouth.

“But I saw him fight then and I went up to him and I shook his hand. When I first saw him, I told him to shut up because he talked so much. But when I saw him fight finally, I said, ‘Oh my God.’ All I could do was bow to him. He could really fight. Everything he was saying was true.”

Each went on to make the Olympic team and became roommates and close friends. When they turned professional, Mayweather signed with Arum and Jones opted to sign with Don King.

While Mayweather enjoyed nothing but success as a pro, Jones hit a road block. He was too small to make an impact as a heavyweight and began having problems. He retired in 2002 because of neurological damage.

Jones was lost and had nothing to do, no way of making a living, when his phone rang. “Floyd said, ‘Nate, come on out here and work for me. You know boxing. I’ll find something for you to do and you’ll always have a check,’ ” Jones said.

Jones said part of his problem as a professional was that he began to drink heavily. Mayweather would counsel him and urge him to stop, but Jones persisted. He drank and didn’t train as hard as he needed.

“I would drink in camp, up to about a week before the fight, and I shouldn’t have been doing that,” Jones said. “Floyd told me. He begged me. And I paid for it. You kill a lot of brain cells when you drink like I was and then you go and get hit in the head. It quickened up the process.”

Jones said when he first arrived in Mayweather’s camp he was simply a friend, a guy Mayweather paid just to be around so he’d have some money in his pocket. As time evolved, though, Jones began to have a more active role in Mayweather’s boxing career.

“Floyd has a lot of respect for my boxing knowledge,” Jones said. “He always tells me, ‘Nate, yours is the only voice I hear when I’m fighting. I can’t hear anyone else’s voice but yours.’ He respects my opinion, so I can make suggestions and talk about things with him. I’m like a secondary trainer. He knows I have his back. All I want is what is 110 percent what is best for Floyd. He knows that.”

Jones said it stings him to his core when he hears Mayweather being attacked. Mayweather has an entourage of about 20 people he has hired because he felt sorry for them, Jones said.

“He doesn’t need me,” Jones said. “He’d win without me. But he cares about people. He pays decent money so people can have good lives and have a chance to have success. And that touches a lot of people. There’s one guy here who is working for Floyd who basically can’t do a thing. He can’t even carry a bag without having some problem. Floyd just doesn’t turn his back on anyone.

“He said to me, ‘Nate, I don’t need this guy. He can’t carry a bag. He serves no purpose. But how would I feel if I told him to go home and I know it would hurt him? I can’t do that.’ That’s the part of Floyd people don’t understand.”

Ellerbe talked about Mayweather going shopping for shoes to deliver to the students of Matt Kelly Elementary School, which is located in one of Vegas’ most blighted areas. Mayweather also paid the full tab, nearly $200,000, so the Michigan Golden Gloves could be held in Grand Rapids last year.

“I got a chance by fighting in that tournament and I was lucky and I made it,” Mayweather said. “There wouldn’t have been a tournament [last year] because there was no money, so me paying for it to keep it alive, that was a way for me to say thanks and give someone else the same opportunity I had.”

It’s mentioned to him that if more people saw this side of him he would skyrocket in popularity and would make more money. He would become a beloved figure.

Mayweather shook his finger.

“You might be right, but that’s not what it’s about,” he said. “I don’t go talk to kids and I don’t go feed the homeless because I want someone to know about it. I want to do it because I know there’s a need and I have the chance to do right.

“I don’t care who knows or who doesn’t know. As long as I help the kids and people who need help, that’s really what matters. I don’t care too much about what anyone else thinks or has to say, to be honest with you. I’m happy with who I am and that’s the important thing.”

Source: http://sports.yahoo.com/box/news?slug=ki-mayweather091109&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

Dana White blasts Boxing and Floyd Mayweather Jr.

UFC boss Dana White and boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. have been verbally going at each other for a couple of years now. In his latest rant against Mayweather, White calls out Mayweather while he was promoting UFC 103 which is going head-to-head with Mayweather's comeback bout against "what's his name?" according to White. I'll let you watch and listen to the video I posted below first before I post my thoughts on White's latest tirade.



I agree and disagree with White.

I agree that Floyd Mayweather Jr. drew a lot in his previous two fights because of Oscar De la Hoya and Ricky Hatton's popularity.

I agree that Floyd usually dances around inside the ring and usually underwhelms Pay-Per-View buyers with his fighting style.

I agree that Mayweather-Pacquiao is the fight people want to see and not Mayweather-Marquez.

And Dana, if you say you truly are a boxing fan, you can't seriously say you can't remember Juan Manuel Marquez's name, but I do get your point that the casual fight fans really do not have a clue who he is.

However, for $10 more, I would really rather see Floyd Mayweather Jr. fight Juan Manuel Marquez because in reality, what five great fights is White really talking about? Who's fighting in them? Who is Rich Franklin? Who is Vitor Belfort? I know who they are, but who really wanted to see that match-up as well? I was really hoping they could've put Tito Ortiz in that card but just like boxing of course, White is protecting his recently re-acquired asset. There is no real current superstar in UFC 103 and it's undercards.

At least the Mayweather undercards were juiced-up by the additions of Rocky Juarez, Chris John Michael Katsidis and Zab Judah, but you can't seriously tell me an old and washed-up Mirko Crocop is the best you can do in terms of star power when it comes to stacking up you undercards with big names.

UFC 103 belongs where they placed the preliminary undercards at- free TV. Spike TV to be more precise. Truthfully, I'm a fan of both sports. If I had to choose between UFC 100 or 101 or the upcoming UFC 104 Machida-Shogun card as opposed to Mayweather-Marquez, I would've chosen the MMA show but 103 is simply not Pay-Per-View material for my liking.

The free undercards on Spike is a great treat for fight fans though and should be more of a regular occurence rather than a ploy to undermine boxing. I really don't favor either sport. I follow both of them with equal amount of passion. I am in favor however of seeing the best fights and as a fan being rewarded by both sports with the best match-ups possible. Sadly, both cards on September 19 fall short of that, but if I was to choose between the lesser of two evils, I'd probably lean towards watching the free UFC undercards then catch Mayweather-Marquez after.

Source: http://www.examiner.com/x-10947-Indianapolis-Fight-Sports-Examiner~y2009m9d10-Dana-White-blasts-Boxing-and-Floyd-Mayweather-Jr

Fans don't want to watch Floyd

PROMOTER Bob Arum fears Floyd Mayweather Jnr's return to boxing will be a real 'stinker'.

Mayweather faces Juan Manuel Marquez on September 19 with fight fans hoping the winner will secure a showdown with pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao.

But Arum does not believe 32-year-old Money is as good as he thinks he is.

Speaking to Ariel Helwani of MMA Fanhouse, the 77-year-old said: "Mayweather is a tremendous talent but the real problem with him is he stinks his opponent out.

"Mayweather won't engage his opponent and that makes a stinking fight.

"He's a great defensive fighter but people don't want to spend money watching a defensive fighter — that's the problem.

"It may well be that a Pacquiao-Mayweather fight can be built up to something special.

"But in my heart I know it'll be like a hunter running around a ring looking for a deer — and that's not boxing.

"If people are being asked to spend $50 to watch it on pay-per-view, they will be reluctant.

"People know Mayweather now. They know the son of a gun doesn't fight, he fights scared.

"He's a boxer and he has to entertain. Outside the ring, Mayweather entertains but in the ring he doesn't."

See the full interview with Bob Arum at http://mma.fanhouse.com/

Source: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/boxing/2632823/Bob-Arum-claims-boxing-fans-dont-want-to-watch-Floyd-Mayweather-Jnr.html

Pete’s Ponderings: Give Marquez a chance?

Haven’t we learned anything?

Much of the criticism I’ve read in regards to the upcoming Floyd Mayweather – Juan Manuel Marquez 144 pound welterweight catchweight fight center around the fact that Marquez, the reigning lightweight world champ and consensus pound for pound #2 fighter in the world, will be competing nine pounds heavier than he ever has once he steps into the ring against Mayweather later this month in Las Vegas.

Haven’t we heard this before?

The last time I can recall a fight being declared somewhat of a mismatch was when junior middleweight Oscar De La Hoya moved down a division to face then reigning lightweight titlist Manny Pacquiao, who was fighting 13 pounds heavier than his previous heaviest fighting weight.

What happened in that fight?

Pacquiao beat De La Hoya down for eight lopsided rounds until “The Golden Boy” retired on his stool and decided it was time to get out of the sport.

So why can’t people give Marquez a chance?

He’s the legitimate lightweight champ who is coming off two consecutive knockout wins against elite opponents, one who’s a probably a future hall of famer, who have never been stopped before.

He’s also the only fighter in recent memory to make Pacquiao look human. Marquez fought to a draw and a split decision loss to Pacman in 2004 and 2008 respectively. Just one point on the scorecards separates those two fighters in their two bouts.

Let’s not forget that in a time when Pacquiao is giving off an aura of invincibility with dominant wins consecutively over boxing superstars that he was rocked in both fights against Marquez.

So is Mayweather faster than Marquez? Yes..but he’s been inactive for 21 months.

Is Mayweather more powerful than Marquez? Maybe….Mayweather’s never been a particularly big knockout puncher at welterweight and for Marquez it remains to be seen.

Is Mayweather rusty at all after not having fought since 2007? This remains to be seen and we’ll find out September 19th in Vegas.

So while Mayweather is the betting favorite and rightfully so, let’s please not act like this is a mismatch meant to give “Money” a comeback win.

We need to learn from past mistakes.

Source: http://www.8countnews.com/news/125/ARTICLE/1903/2009-09-11.html

"I AM READY" - JUAN MANUEL MARQUEZ

It seems like Juan Manuel Marquez is ready to face Floyd Mayweather right now.


"I am ready! if Floyd wants it we can fight tomorrow," said a happy Juan Manuel at the end of his training camp at the ROMANZA Gym.

Marquez is the current WBO, WBA and RING Magazine lightweight champion of the world and acording to many the number one or at least number two pound for pound fighter in the world.

"I am going to face a boxer who has a very dificult style, and a great fighter in Floyd, but I took care of bussiness in the gym, sparring with big guys that have similar style with Mayweather. We already have a game plan, and I hope to be victorious."

Juan Manuel also said that his inspiration to become a fighter and search for greatness in the sport of boxing is Julio Cesar Chavez.

Source: http://philboxing.com/news/story-27214.html

WHAT IF JUAN MANUEL MARQUEZ WINS?

September 19th marks an important date in boxing, the return of Floyd Mayweather Jr. the former or current Pound4Pound champion, (depending on who you ask).

Mayweather Jr. will be facing Juan Manuel Lopez, currently the second, or third man in line for the much coveted Pound 4 Pound crown, (again depending on who you ask). Many -if not most people- are predicting a Floyd Mayweather Jr. victory and most say it will come with ease. Hell, some would make you believe it will take both Marquez brothers in the ring to stop Pretty Boy Floyd, also known as Money Mayweather. But let's get real folks, Juan Manuel Lopez is the real deal and has a chance to be the first to knock Floyd off his throne, (assuming you still believe he sits there).

Marquez has fought Manny Pacquiao twice, who is considered widely to be the real Pound 4 Pound champion. And in those two fights Marquez fought to a draw the fist time around, and lost a close split decision victory in their second meeting. Many believe Marquez won both fights, so in a sense, depending on who you ask, many see Marquez as the man who beat the man.

If there was ever a time when Floyd Mayweather was vulnerable, the time is now. He is coming off nearly a two year lay off, so ring rust can play a huge factor in this fight. To tip the scales back in Mayweather's favor you can always point out the fact that he is naturally the bigger man, with quicker feet and hands. As flashy and flamboyant as Mayweather is, whether he's telling you about what toys he owns or throwing around cash like tootsie rolls at a parade, he always seems hungry for victory. Fame and money have stopped many fighters; they grow lazy or start believing the work of their own public relations machine, but Floyd can’t be charged guilty of that. He always trains to his full potential; his work ethic is second to none.

The same can be said of Juan Manuel Marquez, who hasn’t grown lazy; in fact, he may be the hungriest fighter I’ve ever seen. As shown in the HBO series 24/7 Marquez eats 25 raw quail eggs in the morning and drinks his own urine. That’s right, his own urine! "Dinamita" Marquez takes the phrase "hunger for victory" literally. And believe me folks, if Marquez pulls off the upset you’ll see fighters drinking their own urine like it's Gatorade, which brings me back to my main question... What if Marquez wins? How does that affect boxing? One of the biggest -if not the biggest fight- in boxing right now is a possible showdown between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquaio. But both Floyd an Manny have to conquer their very respected opponents first. Maybe this article should be titled, What if Marquez and Cotto win? But for now I’ll leave it at Marquez. If Juan does walk away the winner, does all attention shift towards him fighting the winner of Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto? And where would a loss put Mayweather? The fight on September 19th, has many sub-plots that I can’t wait to see play out.

Source: http://www.braggingrightscorner.com/perraultwhatif_091009.html

Roach: If Marquez beats Mayweather, boxing will turn into Urinetown

Coach Freddie Roach doesn't know whether to laugh or cry about Juan Manuel Marquez claiming to drink his own urine as part of training preparation to fight undefeated Floyd Mayweather on Sept. 19.

"In all my years in boxing, I have heard a lot of ridiculous things," Roach said speaking to me before Thursday's Miguel Cotto-Manny Pacquiao press conference at Yankee Stadium. "I mean, it is just ridiculous.

"They don't call it a body waste product for northing. The key word is waste."

Then, with his impish Irish sense of humor, Roach decided that the mellow yellow liquid could become the new training rage in boxing.

"Yeah, it could. If Juan Manuel beats Mayweather, all the fighters will start doing that."

Coach Roach laughed.

Is Mayweather laughing?

The urine drinking by the Mexican ringmaster was revealed on the HBO 24/7 series.

Source: http://www.examiner.com/x-5699-NY-Boxing-Examiner~y2009m9d10-Roach-If-Marquez-beats-Mayweather-boxing-will-turn-into-Urinetown

Could Mayweather-Pacquiao happen at House That Ruth Built?

NEW YORK--Manny Paquiao and Miguel Cotto will visit the new Yankee Stadium Thursday for the first of their multi city dog and pony shows.

Given their usual deportment, it's unlikely that even verbal jabs will be exchanged. Their Nov. 14 Las Vegas bout is a hot ticket at the gate and looms as a PPV TV jackpot and it doesn't need artificial injections of hype or contrived controversy.

But, given the backdrop here being the latest version of The House That (Babe) Ruth Built and home of baseball's most dominant franchise, the Yankees, the question naturally arises as to whether the seemingly inevitable Floyd Mayweather-Pacquiao fight could ever take place there.

Given New York's oppressive tax regulations, the quick answer is a phrase Brooklyn boy Bob Arum knows too well from his childhood...yeah, forget about it!

But, since he remains a New Yorker in spirit and still cheers for the Yankees and the football Giants, I decided to ask the Top Rank honcho if the big ballpark in the South Bronx could be the site of such a gigantic bout.

Arum was the co-promoter, along with Madison Square Garden of the third Muhammad Ali-Ken Norton match which took place at a wild and woolly (the cops were on a sort of strike that night) Yankee Stadium on Sept. 28, 1976.

"Fighting in New York doesn't have the same importance that it once did," Arum said. "But it would be great to have Manny fight here and the only opponent who might make sense in the ballpark would be Mayweather.

"I think Manny against Floyd would break the boxing box office records in the stadium."

Out of habit, I mentioned losing out on a vital Las Vegas hotel-casino site fee. Arum said those days are gone.

"With the Cotto fight, we're not getting any site fee from the MGM. They pay for things (hotel rooms and food) and they buy up a lot of tickets but the only one on the financial hook is me, not them," Arum said. "The days of the site fee are gone."

Arum explained that New York State and City officials made some tax concessions to land Ali-Norton III.

"Norton lived in California, where the taxes were similar to New York, so he didn't care too much. With Ali, they let him deduct his manager fee, his trainer fee and then he paid tax on the lesser amount. His manager, Herbert (later Jabir) Muhammad, paid no tax to New York. In this day and age, in this kind of economy, no politician is going to waive off taxes."

Arum then related an anecdote from the George Foreman-Evander Holyfield fight in Atlantic City where Donald Trump--yes, the You're Fired Donald Trump--agreed to fork over a staggering $11 million site fee.

Trump reneged, according to Arum, three weeks before the fight date.

"It was the time of the Gulf War so Trump claimed he was off the hook because of an Act of War clause in the contracts. Really what happened is that Trump realized he was a fool to pay so much money.

"I said, unless Saddam Hussein invades the beach at Atlantic City, Trump had to pay the full amount," Arum said.

"But Trump wound up paying us $1 million in a settlement. We (Top Rank and Dan Duva's Main Events) got the entire live gate and Trump paid for all the rooms and meals."

Pacman-Pretty Boy in storied Yankee Stadium?

It won't happen but it makes for a fleeting fistic fantasy.

Source: http://www.examiner.com/x-5699-NY-Boxing-Examiner~y2009m9d9-Could-MayweatherPacquiao-happen-at-House-That-Ruth-Built

Gymnasium is a liar so don't fall for Floyd Mayweather tales

There are no lies in boxing my late mentor Big Al Braverman always said.

“There are no truths and there are no lies,” the matchmaker and Don King henchman liked to say.

“In boxing, we tell tales. So, in telling tales, they can only be tales and can never be lies.”

So it is with sparring stories. The latest one making the—ahem—rounds has it that rising prospect Lamont Peterson went to Floyd Mayweather’s gym in Las Vegas and beat him like a dirty rug.

There are about 11 versions of what happened and, naturally the Mayweather camp’s “tale” is that Peterson turned tail after getting his tail kicked around the block by his host.

Does anyone in their right mind think that Mayweather, with the Juan Manuel Marquez fight coming up Sept. 19, would invite Peterson into his gym and let the visitor pummel him?

I’m not saying the undefeated Mayweather is unbeatable but, unless someone produces a video record, I say don’t believe either fighter’s camp.

I saw Muhammad Ali get decked one day in Toronto (as usual by a left hook) by sparring partner Jimmy Ellis. An angy Ali then whaled on Ellis.

When they fought without headgear and puffy gloves, Ali handled Ellis easily.

One more sparring story. Just before the Sugar Ray Leonard-Terry Norris bout at Madison Square Garden, I carefully studied Leonard as he sparred at the Kingsway Gym near Times Square with some real young studs, fighters as good if not better than Peterson is now.

Leonard dazzled the younger men and was shining like new money.

In my New York Post column, I flat out said Leonard would batter the little known Norris.

It turned into a brutal beating and Leonard was the beatee.

I always think back to that one and remember Leonard trainer Angelo Dundee (now 88 years young) and his great expression.

“Gymnasium is a liar, don’t believe it,” Dundee often said.

Source: http://www.examiner.com/x-5699-NY-Boxing-Examiner~y2009m9d9-Gymnasium-is-a-liar-so-dont-fall-for-Floyd-Mayweather-tales

Mayweather 2009: Possibly A More Fully-Flowered Fighter?

With Mayweather-Marquez just around the corner, the talk of Mayweather's 21- month absence from the ring has been dominating the conversation surrounding the fight. Earlier this week some of boxing’s highest profile trainers were asked to weigh in on how they think Floyd will be affected, if at all, by the longest period of inactivity of his career.

The last time Mayweather 39-0 (25) fought, he stopped the then undefeated junior welterweight champ Ricky Hatton in the 10th round to retain his WBC welterweight title. Against Hatton, Floyd didn't really dominate the fight but he did pretty much control it the entire way. During the first five or six rounds Mayweather did what he always does; that's let his opponent bring the fight to him and give them a false sense of security. Hatton had a few runs during those rounds but never hurt Floyd or had him in trouble. After eight rounds Hatton was behind but he wasn't being outclassed as much as he was being set-up by Mayweather.

Starting in the ninth round Mayweather picked it up and began to do what no other active fighter in boxing does as well as him, and that's using his opponent’s aggression against them. The more Hatton felt desperate and felt the fight slipping away, the more reckless he fought, and that didn't happen by accident. It was Mayweather's boxing brain at work. In the end Floyd lured Ricky to follow him half way across the ring and then dropped him with a beautifully timed lead left-hook to the chin. Hatton beat the count but went down again via Mayweather's next flurry and the fight was rightfully stopped.

In the twenty one months since beating Hatton, Mayweather may not have fought in the ring but he's been fighting and surveying who's out there in his mind. And that's huge. Many times when fighters are not under the duress of training and preparing for a fight they actually become bigger students of the sport. Sometimes they can pick up things that they never saw before by watching tapes of their previous fights or watching their future or potential opponents fight.

Boxing is so mental and much more cerebral than most think. When fighters watch boxing after they let it go for awhile, you'd be astonished how much they pick up that they totally missed. No, it's usually not newsworthy or earth shaking, but the little things add up. And at the end of the day it's the little things that make a huge difference in winning and losing fights. It's no different than like in the NFL where most games are decided by two or three plays. It could be something as small as Mayweather realizing while watching the tape of his fight with Hatton that every time he jabbed Ricky to the body, Hatton tried to come over it with his right hand and left himself wide open. After watching that Floyd very easily could see that had he done a little more jabbing to Hatton's body when they fought, he might have opened him up and stopped him a little sooner than he did.

When Sugar Ray Leonard retired after beating Kevin Howard, like Leonard, Mayweather knew inside that he wasn't done fighting after Hatton. Leonard stayed in shape by consistently running and going to the gym two or three times a week. Mayweather emulated Leonard in that way during his contrived retirement. The difference is Leonard was preparing himself mentally and physically during his absence for one fighter, Marvin Hagler. By the time Leonard fought Hagler he knew how many breaths Hagler took before he punched.

Unlike Leonard, Mayweather hasn't concentrated on one particular opponent. Hearing what Mayweather has said since he's signed to fight Juan Manuel Marquez, it's easy to glean that he's been more reflective on himself and maybe even has picked up a few things that he feels will make him a little more complete than he was before. The layoff has more than likely matured Mayweather even more as a fighter and he says he feels stronger. The fact that he just may understand his strengths a little better now and has worked on the few mistakes or slight over-anxiousness he may have had in his late twenties, makes him an even more well rounded fighter in his early thirties.

Fighters learn and pick things up long after they retire. It took George Foreman ten years to finally grasp the concept that knockouts can be scored without going after the opponent as if he kidnapped your daughter. Stepping back and making the opponent commit never entered George's mind when he was in his twenties, but due to his physical liabilities in his forties, he scored some devastating knockouts as a counter-puncher, despite the fact that he was a bigger puncher and faster in his twenties.

Floyd Mayweather knew how to fight at the highest level in boxing when he retired. Had he been active during the past 21 months he wouldn't be any better or further along than he will be when he steps into the ring against Marquez. The layoff preserved his body while at the same time his scope as a fighter has broadened. Going the distance won't be a problem and there's a good chance Mayweather will probably be even more relaxed now than he was in 2007. Once a fighter reaches the level of a Floyd Mayweather, sometimes watching fights like a fan can be beneficial to them. Often times even great fighters fight themselves during a bout and make the fight harder than it had to be. If that existed in Mayweather at all before, it's gone now.

Based on hearing Mayweather talk and seeing the way he's conducted himself on camera, he comes off more confident than cocky. Sure, he's clearly bigger, stronger and faster than Marquez and has just about every advantage imaginable. Somehow his demeanor exudes that it's not about Marquez and more about him, in that I mean Floyd would bet on the 2009 version of himself to beat the 2007 version. The inactivity very well may have helped Mayweather flower more as a fighter. It wouldn't be a shock at all to see that Mayweather is even a more relaxed and a better technician against Marquez than he was when he fought Hatton.

The only question that should concern Mayweather or his fans is, how will his body respond and is he more susceptible to a freak accident or injury, not whether or not he'll be rusty or have the capacity to fight 12 hard rounds at a fast pace against a very skilled and determined Marquez.

That's "Money" in the bank.

Source: http://www.thesweetscience.com/boxing-article/7172/mayweather-2009-possibly-more-fully-flowered-fighter/

Jeff Mayweather gives an honest take on his nephew Floyd

The life and times of Floyd Mayweather have been well documented throughout the years. Talented and full of bravado, Mayweather has always found a way to remain relevant, whether he is scathed or praised. Throughout Floyd’s well publicized ride there haven’t been too many individuals who have gotten to know him from the inside out like his respected uncle Jeff.

A former fighter in his own right and an excellent trainer who helped guide Sultan Ibragimov to the WBO Heavyweight Championship in June of 2007, Jeff Mayweather is cut from a different clothe than the other Mayweathers. While uncle Roger, Floyd Sr. and lil’ Floyd have always been quick to preach about their skills and talents as human beings, Jeff prefers to take a much more subdued approach and his humble nature has always been like a breath of fresh air.

As Floyd’s career began to blossom in the early years, Jeff was there for every step of the way and served the role of a mentor, manager, and more importantly a friend throughout everything. While their may have been some sour times down the road, Jeff still keeps and open mind and an unbiased view when assessing his nephew’s place in the sport of boxing. It is that exact mindset that has also allowed Jeff to give a personal take on the upcoming September 19th Mayweather clash again Juan Manuel Marquez without any hesitation whatsoever.

“Marquez no chance,” Mayweather says bluntly. “He’s an outstanding fighter but he’s just in over his head in this contest. People are wrong when they assume that Floyd has lost a step and that he is going to be rusty. He’s ready for this fight.”

As Mayweather trains diligently for this contest in Las Vegas, Nevada, Jeff has had time to swing by Floyd’s personal gym to check him out. In seeing his nephew get down to work Jeff is reminded of the fighter Floyd still is and the desire he still has to be a force in the boxing world.

“It’s like he never left,” Jeff says of Floyd’s nearly two year absence from the sport. “In a way I think he needed this time off. I’ve seen him in the gym and he isn’t rusty. He looks as strong as I’ve ever seen him and I can tell he’s hungry again.”

While Mayweather has been away from the sport his mantel of the world’s best fighter has been replaced by Filipino sensation Manny Pacquiao. In Mayweather’s absence Pacquiao has gone 4-0, with stirring victories over Juan Manuel Marquez in their rematch, Oscar De La Hoya, and Ricky Hatton. Jeff believes that Pacquiao’s stellar run has given Floyd somewhat of a chip on his shoulder and that he is determined to reclaim his stake as the best in the business.

“Everybody is big on Pacquiao,” Mayweather claims. “Basically he is the man according to most and he definitely has done a lot for his career in the past few years. The thing about Floyd is that he has a huge ego and I know deep down that maybe it has gotten under his skin. If anything I know it has given him some motivation to remind people of the fighter he still is. Eventually I think they will meet in the ring and then the truth will come out.”

It has been heavily publicized that in camp with Floyd this time around is his father Floyd Sr. It’s no secret that the elder Mayweather was instrumental in his son’s career before being locked up for playing a part in a drug trafficking scandal in 1993. After serving five years behind bars, the elder Mayweather returned to be involved in his son’s life but their relationship has since been a rollercoaster ride, to say the least, with numerous fallouts and reconciliations having taken place.

Perhaps because of the rocky past that has existed in their relationship, both men are still attempting to pick up the pieces in several regards. Jeff notes that while Floyd is in camp, he isn’t the head trainer for his son and that he is instead there to mend a bond that has taken its share of bumps and bruises.

“It seems that the main reason Floyd Sr. is there is to rebuild a broken relationship,” Jeff opens up honestly. “He’s not serving as a head trainer. As a former fighter of course he is feeling that it’s beneficial to be there but lil’ Floyd is man enough to know how to get ready for a showdown like this. If anything I think they are still trying to get comfortable with one another.”

‘Money’ Mayweather has been no stranger to controversy in the past and in this camp again some possible distractions have rose to the surface. Just last month Uncle Roger was taken into custody by police because he reportedly choked a former fighter of his by the name of Melissa St. Vil. He is facing charges of felony coercion and battery strangulation.

Later in the month, on August 23rd, Mayweather’s name came up in relation to a shooing incident at the Crystal Palace Skating rink. Guns, ammunition, and even bullet proof vests were later seized from Mayweather’s home, but the Grand Rapids native not only denies his involvement in the incident, but also claims it won’t be a distraction come fight time. Uncle Jeff completely agrees.

“I remember reading an article in the past where Oscar De La Hoya was talking about Floyd,” Jeff recalls. “Basically Oscar was trying to sell their fight by saying that Floyd had too many distractions around him to fully focus for a big fight. But the thing is that Floyd has always had distractions in his life, so why would it be different this time around? The thing about Floyd is that despite everything going on around him, he is always able to put everything together when he steps through those ropes. The ring is his sanctuary.”

Floyd’s performances in the past have reaffirmed this, as he has found a way to remain undefeated since starting his career in October of 1996. Inside the ring he has shown moments of brilliance but there is no denying that the controversy he has created coupled with his braggadocios demeanor have ultimately turned several people off. More and more Floyd has become accustomed to playing the role of the bad guy, and it’s a position that Jeff feels his is definitely comfortable with.

“Really, Floyd has always been the bad guy,” Jeff claims. “Nobody likes a guy who is flashy and constantly talks about it because it’s perceived as bragging, both to the common fan and everyday person. When people don’t have certain things and you just throw it in their face of course you are going to turn people against you. To Floyd it may just be him being confident but people take it as arrogance.”

Despite being public enemy number one in recent times, there is still no denying that Floyd brings something completely different to the sport of boxing. While his act may have gotten old with some people, he still has a legion of fans who love him for the fighter he is and the antics he is involved in.

“Floyd definitely still has his fans,” Jeff says with confidence. “It’s just that his fans seems to be a certain type of people these days. He seems to really attract the young, hip-hop crowd because they love someone like Floyd who is all about money and cars. True boxing fans might not care for that but just like rappers always attract a certain kind of attention, so too does Floyd.”

Love him or hate him, many would agree that it is a good thing Floyd is returning to the ring. His accomplishments and talents are without question and after his bout with Marquez he could be involved in some huge fights that could help to carry the sport of boxing for a good while. When closing out about his nephew, Jeff doesn’t see it as much as the start of something new, but more so a return to how things used to be.

“The thing about boxing these days is that the sport is still being carried by veteran fighters. Guys like Bernard Hopkins, Shane Mosley, Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather are still the biggest names in the sport and without them there wouldn’t be nearly as much to talk about. They might try to hype up certain fighters like an Andre Berto, but while he’s a good fighter he isn’t ready to take that next step. I think it’s good that Floyd is coming back because whether people want to admit it or not he is going to help keep the sport going once he returns.”

Source: http://www.examiner.com/x-22973-Miami-Boxing-Examiner~y2009m9d9-Jeff-Mayweather-Gives-an-Honest-Take-on-his-Nephew-Floyd?#comments

Pacquiao and Marquez made each other so much better

It's one thing to be great, but another to even strive to push yourself to be even greater. Pacquiao and Marquez gave each other the reason to do so.

Rivalries between greats are what elevates any sport to the next level. Think about the Celtics and the Lakers, Colts versus Patriots, Yankees-Red Sox, Manchester United-Liverpool and right in boxing's archives, Ali versus Frazier.

Not only do fight fans love to see two great teams or athletes go up against each other and give it their all, rivalries between the best are like two opposing forces that conjure up a tornado leaving those who witness it in awe of it's sheer brilliance and impact.

Just like how Larry Bird and Magic Johnson pushed each other throughout their college and pro careers and made each other better and compete harder, the same can be said with Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez.

It was a perfect clash between two opposing styles and two equally determined competitors with work ethics second to none. After giving it both their all in their Fight of the Year of 2004 that ended in a stalemate and their controversial fight last year which Pacquiao won via split-decision by the slimmest of margins, each worked on improving the nicks in their game that was exposed by the other.

Not only have Pacquiao and Marquez been the consensus number one and two pound-for-pound fighters since their last clash, they have also drastically dominated their opponents while showing improvements on the facets they needed to- Pacquiao with his defense and counter-punching, Marquez with his aggression and finishing off fights. By themselves, Pacquiao and Marquez were two individually great fighters, after their classic wars in the ring however, they elevated each other to "all-time" status-"two of the greatest fighters of all-time" status.

It takes two exceptional fighters to make such a special rivalry happen. The difference between Pacquiao and Marquez's rivalry compared to other rivalries out there fueled by personal dislike and anger is the fact that these two men respect the greatness about each other. Their quest is not to destroy the other person like how Barrera and Morales did against each other, their motivation is to prove who truly is the best in the sport. It's one thing to be great, but another to even strive to push yourself to be even greater. Pacquiao and Marquez gave each other the reason to do so.

A lot of you think I hate Floyd Mayweather Jr. which I can understand. Honestly though, I admire Floyd's skill and abilities, its just that its hard for me to put him in the same category as Pacquiao and Marquez simply because he did not really take on the biggest challenges out there to really test his skills and his claim to greatness. Does that mean he can't beat Marquez and/or Pacquiao? Hell no. Mayweather can beat anybody in the sport within his vicinity, but why pick on smaller guys? He could've made money against Mosley if not more, the perception is, the smaller Marquez offers less resistance.

Miguel Cotto has a far better resume than Floyd, and that's really what I'm all about. Floyd is a great boxer, probably the best in this era really, but boxing is a sport where you prove yourself and your skills inside the ring against the best possible opposition. It's a gladiator sport not a car show. You can upgrade your engine and pimp your ride but boxing isn't a beauty pageant. You have to go out there and race that car you built and prove if it truly is the best and can perform at the highest levels. How come Floyd has yet to fight the Mosleys, Cottos or someone like Paul Williams? I'll save that for a different article on a different day however, this one is about Pacquiao and Marquez.

I admire Pacquiao and Marquez for the very reasons I question Mayweather's greatness. All they've done since I've followed both their careers is to go up and find the biggest challenge out there and try to set the bar higher. Higher they indeed have as they have not only inspired each other to work on their weaknesses and strive to be the best, they have also left others in the dust by the level of competition they have pushed each other to endure. And on the way of doing so, they have captured the imaginations of the boxing world, providing the most excitement out of any two fighters in the sport and definitely placed the lower weight classes on the driver's seat of the sport's landscape.

So for those who are certain about a Mayweather victory on the 19th, I'll leave you this this to think about. Marquez has been in the ring with a stronger and faster fighter before and more than held his own, in fact in several analysts' opinion, he won. Mayweather on the other hand has not faced a fighter who has the patience and skill that Marquez has and in my opinion, someone who is smarter than him inside the ring. Add to that the ring rust and the questionable ribs, and you got the perfect recipe for an 'upset'.

Source: http://www.examiner.com/x-10947-Indianapolis-Fight-Sports-Examiner~y2009m9d9-Pacquiao-and-Marquez-made-each-other-so-much-better

Roger Mayweather confident layoff won't hurt Floyd's chances against Juan Manuel Marquez

When the issue arose last week of his nephew's layoff, which reaches 21 months tomorrow, Roger Mayweather blanched, then correctly pointed out how some of the greatest names in boxing history, alongside which his nephew compares favorably, overcame much more substantial respites.

Floyd Mayweather's labor day looms next week in a comeback bout against Juan Manuel Marquez that falls something short of his all-important potential showdown against Manny Pacquiao, and well beyond the sort of tuneup fight most in his position would have taken.

The Grand Rapids native has 12 rounds, in 12 days, to traverse the rust vs. rest canyon, while trying to shake off the former in the midst of a bout against a man renowned for his own mid-fight tweaks. As Marquez adjusts to Mayweather, Mayweather must adjust to both Marquez and himself.

There isn't anything easy about it.

Roger Mayweather fought steadily from 1981-99, and during his two-championship career took only one break as long as a full year, and then only at the very end.

He remains a rare student of boxing, however, and can recite some of the more -- and less -- successful comebacks by rote and rationale.

Essentially, fighters who build their legends as whirlwinds, then embark on comebacks after lengthy layoffs, generally find their dynamic fury difficult to recreate.

Those with more fundamental foundations -- a category into which Floyd Mayweather definitively falls -- have easier times of it.

That's why Mayweather may not be exactly the same fighter as before but should come far closer to it than naysayers might hope.

"The greatest fighters in the world have had layoffs," Roger Mayweather said. "What do you think Sugar Ray Leonard had? He had a 51/2-year layoff. He had two detached retina surgeries. And he still beat Marvin Hagler after being laid off 51/2 years. Sugar Ray Robinson was laid off three years and that's the greatest fighter on the globe. Ali was laid off three years.

"So Floyd ain't the only guy that's been laid off. Most of the greatest fighters in the history of boxing have one thing in common: They've been laid off."

Leonard actually had one fight in five-plus years before defeating Hagler, although the rest of the timelines essentially are accurate.

And so is this: Robinson spent several years losing and regaining championships after his comeback, against fighters who might not have touched him beforehand; Muhammad Ali did great things after his comeback, but undeniably was not the same after his draft-refusal layoff; and Leonard stretched his comeback too far and took some losses because of it.

Fury-fueled fighters have the biggest comeback problems.

Joe Louis' post-war comeback resulted in some good wins after one fight in four years, but a second comeback, induced by tax trouble, was not as successful and included two of his three losses, to Ezzard Charles and Rocky Marciano.

Mike Tyson's post-prison comeback began with some typical tuneups but he never was close to the same fighter after his rape conviction, was softened up in ugly losses to Evander Holyfield and Lennox Lewis, then later blown out by little-known Danny Williams and Kevin McBride.

Floyd Mayweather, at 32 years old, should not yet be in the position of challenging his 39-0 record via timeline.

Then again, Father Time treats people differently.

"Once I started boxing, I had to box a few times, you know, box four or five times," Floyd Mayweather said. "I still was looking good, I really wasn't taking no punishment. But about the fifth time I started boxing, I started looking real, real sharp, looking real, real good."

The rib injury that postponed the original July date was indicative of an athlete on the rebound, but if Mayweather falters against Marquez, the choice of comeback opponent will bear more responsibility than the down time.

"I don't think the two-year layoff is going to affect me," he said. "I feel fast, I feel strong and the timing is there."

Source: http://www.mlive.com/boxing/index.ssf/2009/09/roger_mayweather_confident_lay.html

Mayweather has edge vs Marquez—Manny

MANILA, Philippines - He won’t be at ringside but Manny Pacquiao has a hint of things to come when Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Juan Manuel Marquez lock horns on Sept. 19 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

“Magandang laban ‘yan (That’ll be a good fight),” said Pacquiao of the upcoming clash where the winner might end up facing the Filipino pound-for-pound champion sometime next year.

Mayweather, the ex-pound-for-pound champion, is coming out of retirement to face Marquez at a catchweight of 144 lbs, and try to re-establish himself as the best fighter out there.

Mayweather, who hasn’t fought since he knocked out Ricky Hatton on Dec. 8, 2007, will rely on his speed and his great ability to run away from trouble against the counter-punching Mexican.

Pacquiao agrees that Mayweather has the upperhand.

“Lamang siya (He has the edge),” said Pacquiao who should be back home from a whirlwind press tour in the US and Puerto Rico by the time Mayweather and Marquez trade blows.

Mayweather, undefeated in 39 fights when he decided to retire almost 20 months ago, is favored in a way that Marquez is trying do everything or anything as he trains for the fight.

Boxing websites were plastered with reports yesterday that Marquez, whose draw with Pacquiao in 2004 was as controversial as his loss to the Pinoy icon last year, has admitted to drinking his own urine.

“I think that this has helped me a lot. I’ve done it for the last five or six fights with good results. I also drink my own urine because that’s where a lot of proteins and vitamins are,” he told HBO’s 24/7.

“(They’re) part of your vitamin intake, and why not drink them again instead of wasting them,” said Marquez, whose already on a “constant diet” of 25 raw quail eggs a day.

Pacquiao should begin his eight-week training for the Nov. 14 showdown with Miguel Cotto on Sept. 21, up in chilly Baguio City and under the watchful eyes of his trainer, Freddie Roach.

Source: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/sports/09/07/09/mayweather-has-edge-vs-marquez-manny

Floyd Mayweather: Is there a change on the horizon?

Everybody wants to be loved. Even the baddest of the bad and the meanest of the mean. Make no mistake about it. You may have built up your tough guy persona, but deep inside everyone longs for that pat on the back.

Is this the year that Floyd Mayweather turns the corner and actually tries to be embraced by boxing fans? He is very talented with lightning quick reflexes, but something is lacking. His style is not exactly fan friendly or given to result in fight of the year type bouts.

Team Mayweather have made subtle changes throughout the years It started when he appeared on Dancing With The Stars. It was a calculated risk to show Floyd's softer side. It may have worked on the casual fan, but the diehard still had their doubts.

He then proceeded to praise the just defeated Ricky Hatton. This may have been done in hopes of bringing some of Ricky's fans over to his side. But Hatton fans like brawling so it was doubtful that any of his fans would have been glued to the television for Mayweather's next fight.

Now Floyd can be seen on HBO's 24/7. Floyd did not diss Marquez in the first installment. This may also have been calculated. As was the shot of Floyd delivering meals to the homeless. This may be good for his image, but it will not win over boxing fans.

So what will win over some fans? The answer is threefold.

First, stop with all of the braggadocio. Boxers fight and are expected to say how they will beat their opponent. But nobody wants to hear someone constantly say how great they are. It is like a petulant child screaming out for attention. It may have been cute once, now it is old and irritating. Nobody cares how much money you throw around. Again that only shows a lack of maturity.

Secondly, if you are going to talk the talk, then walk the walk. In the De La Hoya-Mayweather 24/7, all anyone heard was how you were going to whip Oscar's butt. Only in more graphic and vulgar terms. But once you were in the ring you became the same old pitty pat, defensive minded Floyd. There is a reason no one wanted to see De La Hoya-Mayweather 2. It was because the first fight was such a snoozefest. If you fought every fight like you did against Gatti and Corrales then you would have a growing legion of fans. But that Floyd is never seen anymore.

Third, fight the best. Hatton made you work. Marquez will do the same. But you are a welterweight so fight a true welter. Names like Mosley, Cotto and even Margarito have been out there for years. Stop crying about the money and get these fights done. It would be a natural for you, if you beat Marquez, to fight the Pacquiao-Cotto winner. If it all falls into place and you say no because of money then you lose all credibility with the diehard boxing fan. Even a five year old can talk a good fight. Legends get it done.

It is not like the boxing world is asking a leopard to change it's spots. We are only asking for a little more action and a little less talk. There is a reason Pacquiao, Cotto and Hatton have such large followings. It is because they are like their fans. Just an average guy doing their job. They don't make their fans feel as if they are beneath them.

So, this might be the year Floyd joins the party. Or he could act like the spoiled kid and bring the party to a screeching halt.

Source: http://www.examiner.com/x-8557-Norfolk-Boxing-Examiner~y2009m9d7-Floyd-Mayweather-Is-there-a-change-on-the-horizon

ROGER MAYWEATHER: "FLOYD IS AS SHARP AS EVER"

"No doubt about it, Floyd gonna win. If Marquez can avoid a knockout somehow, more power to him, but from what we can see, if he brings the energy like Hatton, it's gonna end up the same way...Floyd is as sharp as ever. I know that for a fact. I'll be in the corner just as I always am, but I don't expect to see anything less from Floyd than we have seen in the past," stated trainer Roger Mayweather as he spoke about Floyd Mayweather Jr.'s upcoming clash with Juan Manuel Marquez on September 19th. Check it out!

PC: How are you doing Roger?

RM: I'm doing good. Trying to stay focused right now and worry about nothing else until after the fight.

PC: How would you grade this training camp for the Marquez fight?

RM: It's good; great now that Floyd Sr. is part of the team again. No matter what Floyd says, having his father here is going to give him a stronger mindset going into the fight.

PC: I agree 100% with that. A lot of fighters let themselves go, in between fights and especially in retirement. How easy does it make your job that Lil Floyd is not one of those guys?

RM: Floyd has such a natural ability. We never had to worry about that, not only because of his natural ability, but his own drive. He stays in shape between fights, whether it's a 6-month break or 2 years.

PC: When Floyd got back into the gym, you being his trainer, what were some of the things you were looking for from him?

RM: I wanted him to pick up right where we left off; to come back into the game just as strong as he was before.

PC: Do you feel you picked up where ya'll left off or was it a matter of getting his feet wet again?

RM: Well, it's like warming up before you hit the weights. On day 1, we weren't training as hard as we are now, not because he wasn't capable, but because we wanted to ease the body back into the process.

PC: Floyd has been doing this for a long time. Will you be watching him closely the first couple of rounds to make sure everything is still sharp?

RM: Floyd is as sharp as ever. I know that for a fact. I'll be in the corner just as I always am, but I don't expect to see anything less from Floyd than we have seen in the past.

PC: What threats do you think Juan Manuel Marquez presents to your nephew?

RM He's a good fighter, there's no doubt about that. He wants to fight a high-energy fight, so did Ricky Hatton and Oscar. It doesn't matter, high-energy, low-energy, it's about the overall skill of the fighter. You can fight any kind of fight you want, if Floyd better than you, he gonna beat you either way.

PC: If you had to give a prediction, how do you see this fight going?

RM: No doubt about it, Floyd gonna win. If Marquez can avoid a knockout somehow, more power to him, but from what we can see, if he brings the energy like Hatton, it's gonna end up the same way.

PC: Do you still view Lil Floyd as the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world?

RM: Floyd will always be the greatest fighter in my opinion.

PC: I'm sure you plan on being successful against Marquez. Would you want the Pacquiao fight next to see if you can go 2-0 against Freddie Roach?

RM: You know, that's something that Floyd has to decide at the end of the day. We take things one step at a time, one fight at a time. We get a lot of BS from publicists out there, whether it be Pacquiao or any of the others, Floyd gonna take things one fight at a time.

PC: Good luck on the 19th. I appreciate your time Mamba. Is there anything you want to say in closing?

RM: Thank you. Just support boxing and tune in on the 19th. The sport needs all the great fighters it can get and you're gonna see a great fighter on the 19th.

Source: http://fighthype.com/pages/content5625.html

Mayweather-Marquez 24/7: Pt. 2 Reviewed

“Last week on Mayweather-Marquez 24/7…” we learned playing craps make the heart grow fonder, Juan Manuel Marquez likes eating birthday cake, Mayweather still rocks classic skates among other “S*&^” that’s paid for (prior to taxes), and HBO can subtitle Spanish profanities fluently.

What nuggets will this week provide?

Enter theme music and real time recap as Marquez, in the great outdoors, is throwing rocks as he works his way up a mountain. At the peak, he screams “Dragooooooooooooooooooooooooo!”

Ooops…wrong workout.

The raw eggs, quail in this case, are there but Marquez is no Balboa. He asks for a spoon. They do their trick as Marquez breaks a speed bag with a lethal left. Power isn’t enough as trainer Nacho Beristain makes clear. “(Marquez) still needs to become a little bit quicker. His current speed isn’t yet enough to beat the best fighter in the world.”

Beristain is right of course, as Marquez has yet to post a win in two tries at Manny Pacquiao.

HBO then transitions into a tribute to the King of Pop as narrator Liev Schreiber reads, “The day began with an embrace of the archaic. It ends with an air of the futuristic.” Viewers are treated to a Marquez trip to a hyperbaric chamber where he breathes pure oxygen in preparation for battle.

Brief aside: Anyone who has ever seen Blue Velvet either just burst out laughing, got the creeps thinking about a young Isabella Rosselini and scissors, or all of the above.

Switching locales from Mexico to Las Vegas, Mayweather is working the mitts and doing sit/stand-ups among other things. Mayweather is adorned in some nice Reebok gear (this is NOT product placement!). Trainer and uncle Roger informs he doesn’t have to tell Floyd how much to train because his nephew works that hard on his own. Then he steps further, saying “(Floyd) needs one more championship to tie with the greatest fighter in the world. That’s Sugar Ray Robinson.”

A mural on the wall of great champions past is, well, it’s just cool. Seriously. Something like it should be in every man cave. “Most people don’t know s&^% about boxing,” Roger states, and then it’s a round of boxing history, again including that Robinson won seven world titles…

Author’s Note…which is true only if one counts a weak Pennsylvania claim to the Middleweight crown prior to his title win over Jake LaMotta. Robinson won the Welterweight title once and the Middleweight title five times. That’s six. But, hey, if Roger is counting Floyd’s IBF belt win over Zab Judah as a real title win, one fight after Judah lost to Carlos Baldomir in 2006, in a fight where Baldomir wouldn’t pony up a sanctioning fee, then Pennsylvania is at least as good.

As has been the case in previous Mayweather (the fighter…the family has been involved in all but one) 24/7’s, sparring is done off camera but there is a look at the aftermath. Mayweather’s sparring partner is a mess and says into the camera, “This is real blood, man. A Mexican type.”

In case anyone is wondering, Mexican blood types come in derivatives of A, B, AB, or O.

Back to Mexico City and stop motion photography indicates people move really fast there. Into the slower pace of the Marquez home, Juan Manuel is tutoring his son in math before settling in for a round of family video game Futbol. Marquez gloats when he scores…and there could be a joke here about self esteem for the kids, but those are some cute kids. Looks like a quality Pops from this side, same as Floyd last week.

Now the scene is at a family celebration with mariachi band in tow. Marquez’s wife states that her husband’s fights make her “nervous and afraid,” which is pretty logical. It’s a tough business. Schreiber recounts Marquez, and brother Rafael, are married to sisters. Juan Manuel’s wife is not alone in her nerves. At least the two seldom fight on doubleheaders; spreads the nerves around.

Must make family reunions easy to plan though.

Back to Vegas and Floyd is getting a manicure and pedicure while advisor Leonard Ellerbe watches.

Moving on.

Mayweather’s past problems with brittle hands brought Rafael Garcia, a hand wrap specialist and sixty-year veteran, into camp. A pan of photos reveal Garcia has worked with the great Wilfredo Gomez, Roberto Duran and, now, Mayweather (and, yes, Mayweather is great. How great is the argument…not if).

Garcia knows it and states, “One of the best is Floyd Mayweather.” After reviewing the process of the wrap, the camera follows Mayweather to the speed bag. He doesn’t break his but he does hit it a lot faster and more often than Marquez. Beristain is right. Marquez is going to need speed.

Might want to chase chickens.

Floyd, following training footage, throws in one of the more honest statements about what makes “Money” tick that one could hear. “I love to box. It’s in me. I fought over ninety fights for free so it wasn’t always for the money. I don’t know nobody else who’s not hungry for an eight-figure payday.”

If anyone reading knows such a person, run.

Beristain is watching footage of Mayweather and Jose Luis Castillo to prepare, noting Juan Manuel Marquez “is different from most Mexican fighters; he’s an excellent counterpuncher. He improvises brilliantly with great results.” So why watch a fight against as classic a Mexican fighter as there could be? A glimpse into why is exhibited in the gym as Marquez spars and Beristain is read saying something about how more than two shots messes with Mayweather’s rhythm.

Off camera, Mayweather is taking notes as basically the entire fight strategy against is him is laid out.

Then…

…an empty glass…

…Marquez picks it up…

…heads to the john…

…comes back with a cup of yellow…

…drinks it…

Are you freaking kidding? Marquez is not lost at sea or anything, right? The gym is landlocked, correct? Marquez explains this disturbing scene, something about vitamins.

Dude, go to GNC!

At least we know exhaling mightily in the clinches is part of the fight strategy.

By the grace of (insert deity), Floyd Mayweather Sr. skipping rope to the Four Tops is on screen. He tags off to Jr. and Sr. gets served! Father and son compare muscles, virility, and their past squabbles are discussed before discussion of Sr.’s chronic lung disease and the timeliness of reconciliation. Even recognizing the nature of the show to manipulate audience emotional response, it certainly feels like a genuine outcome versus one forced for cameras.

A closing montage plays with training stuff and ‘fighting to make life better’ platitudes…

Cue credits.

Final Thoughts: Week two was an improvement on the first as Marquez’s personality got more interesting. Fans got a deeper look at the psychology of his training than has been the case in other of version of this hype show. One thing is certain: piss drinking will get people talking.

The problem is, there is still little to talk about with the fight. What are these guys fighting for? Why does this fight matter? It’s not especially conveyed here.

Mayweather is being shown in a much more positive light in this version of 24/7 than in others, meaning his often self-assumed role as ‘villain’ isn’t coming through. He’s still talkative, but less smug. Even last week, his usual braggadocio was done more with a wink than a scowl.

A less smug Mayweather could mean less incentive for folks who might pay to see him lose. Something Mayweather has shown he knows, Muhammad Ali knew in another time, and pro wrestling has known forever, is people will pay more to see someone they dislike lose than to see someone they like win.

Until this show conveys why the smaller Marquez CAN win (and most serious fight followers assume he can’t and are vocal about it), and until Mayweather turns up the full force of personality that makes many want to see him lose, 24/7 is not selling the fight strong enough.

And make no mistake. This is a fancy commercial. That’s all. The job is a hard sell even if it’s not bad T.V. at the same time. Grade: B

Cliff Rold is a member of the Ring Magazine Ratings Advisory Panel and the Boxing Writers Association of America. He can be reached at roldboxing@hotmail.com

Source: http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&id=22047

MARQUEZ DRINKS PEE FOR VITAMINS?

Reports indicate that Juan Manuel Marquez practices “urotherapy”. He drinks his own urine.

Nothing wrong with that. After all it’s a free world and one can drink his own urine if he elects to do for whatever reason.

In certain parts of the world, this practice is known as “Amaroli”. It is related to the practice of yoga.

Reports quoted Marquez as saying “urine has plenty of vitamins and why not drink them again instead of wasting them”?

Well, I wish Marquez has better reason than that for his unusual practice.

From my classes in physiology many years ago, I learned that some vitamins we take in as part of our diet, either from the food itself or from the vitamin tablet supplement we might have taken are excreted through the urine because the body can only take so much.

Therefore, drinking urine “so the excreted vitamins will not go to waste” really does not cut it. They will be excreted again because the body has enough already.

So, where then is the beneficial effect of those vitamins?

Purely psychological, perhaps?

Unwittingly, Marquez’ practice of urotherapy may have some practical beneficial effects for him.

Urine contains melatonin, a hormone that is produced by a small gland in the brain. Melatonin helps regulate our sleep and wake cycle. Therefore, for Marquez who spent most of the day in hard physical training, the melatonin, at the end of the day, may help him get a good night’s sleep.

Urine also contains other hormones like estrogen which stimulates ovulation in women and sperm production in men.

But sperm production at the moment should be far from the mind of Marquez. He is in deep training for one of the biggest, if not the biggest fight of his life. Sex can wait for some other occasion.

Urine also contains urea a well-known anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral agent. Therefore, it may be keeping Marquez from getting sick. Perhaps a preventive health maintenance of some sort against such things as a simple sore throat.

Urine also contains glutamine a by product of the liver breakdown of urea. It is known for its ability to strengthen the immune system

As revolting as it may be to certain people, drinking urine may not be all that bad. Urine is a blood by-product that contains 95% water. Although it contains some waste products, it is not toxic and therefore can be consumed.

When consumed, urine goes through the digestive system were it is sorted out . The good useful ingredients are recycled and toxins eliminated.

It is in fact the elimination of the toxins that may be beneficial to Marquez.

It is said that when the toxins reach a certain level, they stimulate the intestines resulting in bowel movement and elimination of these toxins as well as other waste products like feces.

Therefore, Marquez’ urotherapy may induce bowel regularity helping him keep a healthy body.

Urine also contains an enzyme called urokinase which is a vasodilator. It is like nitroglycerine in its ability to strengthen the bloodstream from the arteries to the heart muscle itself. It is no secret that a strong heart is needed to take the physical stress of boxing.

Since Marquez is into “urotherapy”, I suggest that he might as well maximize it.

Perhaps, he can also use his urine as a face wash. Urine has chemicals that can help smooth and moisturize the skin.

Really now!

Well, for the skeptical readers, I suggest that you check-out the labels of some of the facial beauty products your girl friends, wives or significant others use on a daily basis.

Particularly those from Europe. They contain urea ingredients from human, cows or pigs.

Finally, urine may have some valuable components that may be useful. But does that mean that “urotherapy” could be routine valuable component of boxers’ training regimen?

Personally, I do not believe so because there are no authentic medical information validated and collaborated by independent research to justify it. The most supporters of the procedure can offer are “anecdotal”. But how credible are those claims when researches to authenticate them are at best difficult. After all, who would like to participate in urine drinking spree?

Got urine?

Source: http://philboxing.com/news/story-27087.html

HBO Boxing's 24 / 7 on its last legs?

HBO Boxing's once popular 24 / 7 series seems to be at the end of its shelf life. The second of the four - part series on the September 19 Mayweather vs. Marquez fight ran last night.

I don't know if it's this particular fight or the particular fighters, but the 30-minute show barely held my interest

What is clear is that the Michigan Mayweather family members need the English subtitles more than the Mexican Marquez family.

The remark that Juan Manual Marquez drinks his own urine while training probably wouldn't have merited much shock value if the show weren't so boring.

The snappy music, excellent narration, photography and short attention span needed could keep the show running for ages, but unless there is something new to say or anyone other than the Mayweather's involved, I'm ready to move on with my life.

If 24 / 7 is to continue at the pace of expected Mayweather wins, we'll have to contend with this through this fight and through a Mayweather - Pacquiao fight.

Unless the Mayweather's strike oil or hit a power ball lottery, I don't see any sociological reasons to watch this show when the Mayweather's star. This is because there is no growth of the characters. Unless you just happen to like it.

There is no accounting for taste. No pun intended.

Source: http://www.examiner.com/x-11372-Dallas-Boxing-Examiner~y2009m9d6-HBOs-247-on-its-last-legs