Top 25 Heavyweights (As of November, 2006)
By JE Grant
In the month of November we will learn a lot about the future of the division. Wladimir Klitschko faces America’s top heavyweight Calvin Brock. Early in the month Serguei Liakhovich takes on one-time lineal champ Shannon Briggs.
Perhaps of greater long-term importance are the bouts that won’t be on television and will gain little notice in the sports media.
A bevy of unbeaten hot prospects will meet in November. Damian Wills will meet Chris Arreola. Former Olympian Jason Estrada will face Travis Walker. How rare is it that young heavyweights with fat unblemished records square off? Such matchmaking is to be commended. The winners of these bouts will exit the ring with far more credentials than they could gain by fighting a dozen palookas.
Potential future star Roman Greenberg meets journeyman Alexei Varakin in Monaco. Greenberg is a likely easy winner there, but what’s important is that after this bout he moves to the U.S. to fight under the promotional banner of Warrior Boxing. Americans will be buzzing about him within a year.
Unfortunately the saga of the formerly great Evander Holyfield continues in November. He is scheduled to take on Fres Oquendo in a bout that will likely spell an embarrassing end for the “Real Deal.” Oquendo is far from being a great fighter but all he has to be is good to beat the 43 year-old version of Evander.
Finally, there’s much buzz about the Australian “Superfighter” tournament that may include many of the top heavyweights and cruiserweight champion O’Neil Bell. The multi-fight format, all to be held in one day, appears to be taking a page from the mixed-martial arts world --- one of the few fighting sports that is exploding with fan recognition. The multi-million dollar payout is almost shocking if it pans out. Let’s hold off making any judgments about its effect on boxing until it unfolds.
Once again, my thanks to Brian Bizzack and Troy Ondrizek heavyweight trackers extraordinaire.
* * *
1. Wladimir Klitschko, Ukraine – IBF Champion (Last month #1) Klitschko is not wasting his time with also-rans. In Calvin Brock he’ll find a tough, undefeated, and smart fighter who can punch. Brock will force Klitschko to be sharp in all departments, power, speed, and boxing ability.
2. Serguei Liakhovich, Belarus – WBO Champion (Last month #2) If he cannot get past Shannon Briggs, his title-winning effort against Brewster will be seen as a mere illusion. Should he win, as expected, he should clamor for a shot at the winner of Klitschko-Brock.
3. Calvin Brock, USA (Last month #3) Brock’s golden opportunity awaits as he meets arguably the best heavyweight in the world in Wladimir Klitschko. Beating Klitschko would mean vast riches. It’s a giant leap for Brock.
4. Samuel Peter, Nigeria (Last month #5 Tie) The WBC never ceases to embarrass the sport. Peter who received a controversial, but fair, decision over Toney with the promise of a mandatory shot at Oleg Maskaev, was presented with a shot to the groin by the WBC which ordered a rematch. Look, Toney already leap-frogged the then-number 1 Maskaev to get a “mandatory” against Hasim Rahman. What gives? Why the special treatment?
5. James Toney, USA (Last month #5 Tie) Yes, we thought he deserved the nod against Peter but no, we do not think the WBC was right to essentially nullify the judgment of the ringside officials for the purpose of giving him another chance at Peter. Sam Peter won the fight in the eyes of the officials at ringside and thus should have received an unhindered shot at Maskaev. (By the way --- we won’t have any more ties in the ratings).
6. Oleg Maskaev, Uzbekistan / USA – WBC Champion (Last month #7) Once he gets past Peter Okhello in a December embarrassment, maybe we can talk about a serious fight. We can’t be surprised that the WBC is allowing this debacle to take place --- and we’ll say that even if Okhello lands a haymaker that ends it all. While Klitschko takes on a proven and undefeated Brock, and Liakhovich battles veteran Briggs, Maskeav chooses to go a very different way. Too bad.
7. Hasim Rahman, USA – (Last Month #8) The “Rock” still retains a number three rating in the WBC which could mean another title shot down the road is not out of the question. Nothing is scheduled.
8. Lamon Brewster, USA (Last month #4) Time continues to work against the injured former titlist.
9. Nicolay Valuev, Russia – WBA Champion (Last month #9) He came and he conquered – sort of. There is no doubt that beating the big guy will prove difficult for anyone. His size, awkwardness and sturdy chin require a solid all-round fighter to beat him. Barrett was a decent heavyweight, but Valuev is just a cut above his level. Look for Valuev to defend against the winner of the Ruiz-Chagaev match in Germany.
10. Sultan Ibragimov, Russia (Last month #10) The tough Russian has big opportunities, most likely is a shot at the winner of Liakhovich-Briggs.
11. Ray Austin, USA (Last month #11) A solid draw with Ibragimov in July and nothing since. What is the 35 year-old “Rainman” waiting for?
12. John Ruiz, USA (Last month #12) He signed with all the right folks to ensure that he has a chance at another title shot. All that stands in his way is Ruslan Chagaev. Ruiz and his handlers may very well have outsmarted themselves. Don’t be surprised to see Ruiz quietly lose and fade away. Always keep in mind, however, that John Ruiz has had more lives than any heavyweight in the game. He may have the last laugh.
13. Shannon Briggs, USA (Last month #13) The “Cannon’s” last best shot comes early in November against Liakhovich. His best shot in the bout will be in the early rounds with explosive punches. If Liakhovich is still there in the middle rounds it could be curtains for Briggs.
14. Ruslan Chagaev, Uzbekistan (Last month #14) Expect the tough Uzbeki to power his way to victory over a hugging John Ruiz in November.
15. DaVarryl Williamson, USA (Last month #15) Rumors have dissipated for possible bout withPrzemyslaw Saleta. It’s wait and see.
16. Fres Oquendo, USA (Last month #16) Fres will likely end the career of former great Evander Holyfield when they meet in November. A win in the bout proves little – and a loss is a total disaster. At this stage Fres is probably a little too quick for the 43 year-old. It won’t be pretty.
17. Matt Skelton, England (Last month #17) A December date with the formerly highly-touted Audley Harrison is likely all that is between him and a world title shot. It’s too close to call.
18. Jameel McCline, USA (Last month #18) Another fighter lured by the prospect of a mega payday in the Superfighter tournament scheduled for December. If this tourney happens McCline has as good a chance as anyone to take it.
19. Danny Williams, England (Last month #19) We fully expect that Danny will next face British champ Scott Gammer. It’s make or break.
20. Luan Krasniqi, Germany (Last month #20) After nearly an eight-month layoff, he’s scheduled to return to action in December against an as yet named opponent (read: palooka).
21. Tony Thompson, USA (Last month #21) A big win on televison against Dominick Guinn in June and nothing since. You’re blowing it kid.
22. David Tua, New Zealand (Last month #22) – Scheduled to return to action against shopworn vet Ross Purritty in November. A win proves little but at least it’s activity.
23. Vladimir Virchis, Ukraine (Last month #23) The EBU titlist will likely have to defend against Sinan Samil Sam early next year. For reasons we can’t figure out, Sam gets shot after shot at big matches.
24. Alexander Dimitrenko, Ukraine (Last month unranked) – The youngster earned his first signficant victory by blasting out fellow giant Gonzalo Omar Basile in Stuttgart in October. The win allows him to crack the top 25. Of course we must be cautious in ascribing great significance to the win. Basile had never ventured out of South America before and had never met anyone remotely close to the class of Dimitrenko. His fat record could have been an illusion --- time will tell.
25. Eddie Chambers, USA (Last month #25) The young Philly star is in the right place to continue his development. At 27-0, the 24 year-old has plenty of time to continue the climb if he has the real stuff within him.
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Prospects, fringe contenders, and others who need mentioning listed in no particular order. Don’t read the fact that they are listed here as an indication a ranking is imminent. Regular readers should also note that I’ve taken off some names that were here in months past who still rate attention. We're highlighting activity and when potentially top fighters have bouts scheduled you’ll likely see them reappear.
*************************************************************************
Alexander Povetkin, Russia – The 9-0 former Olympic gold medal winner is set for a December match in Moscow. Soon, you can expect to see American TV outlets such as HBO and Showtime clamoring for the broadcast rights to this – perhaps the most talented of young heavyweights.
Chris Byrd, USA – Scheduled to participate in the so-called “Superfighter” tournament in Australia in December. We don’t think Chris is thinking about recapturing any titles anytime soon. Of course if he wins the tourney he’ll gain a payday bigger than he ever saw as the heavyweight titlist.
Monte Barrett, USA (Last month #24) “Two Gunz” gave it his best but it just wasn’t close to good enough to take Valuev. He won a couple of rounds but he went wobbly often. The stoppage loss will likely mean no more shots – although in the eyes of the WBA his loss against Rahman was enough to propel him to a title shot with Valuev. Nonetheless, at 35 Barrett’s days as a serious contender are done.
Oliver McCall, USA – Yet another possible participant in the Superfighter tournament. His classic jab will give someone fits. However, at 41 the multiple bout format may prove a stretch.
Joe Mesi, USA – Last fought in September in a four-rounder. Despite being 33-0, and holding some key victories years ago, “Baby Joe” still doesn’t seem on track yet. Eventually he’ll meet a top ten fighter and we’ll find out what he has left.
Chazz Witherspoon, USA – “The Gentleman” stayed busy in October with a three-round stoppage of Earl Ladson (now 12-12-1) to advance his record to 15-0 (9 KOs). The fight was held under the promotional auspices of “Terrible” Tim Witherspoon.
Gonzalo Omar Basile, Argentina – Were all those wins worthy of our notice? His one-round blowout loss to Dimitrenko in a mere 54 seconds obviously makes us wonder. He has a lot of explaining to do – preferably with his fists.
J.D. Chapman, USA – At 25-0, the 23 year-old has a bevy of low-level belts including the Arkansas, NABC, WBC Latino, and IBF/USBA regional titles. Of course none of those belts have much intrinsic meaning, but needless to say that if he keeps winning he’ll get shots at belts that do mean something.
Scott Gammer, England – Successfully defended his British belt against Michael Steeds in October. Don’t be surprised to see a match made with Danny Williams next. A win there and Gammer will be a player.
Denis Boytsov, Russia – The talented 20 year-old is now 16-0 (15 KOs). He has faced modest opposition to date but he seems to have a spark.
Travis Walker, USA – With his November date set with Jason Estrada, Walker has the opportunity to break away from the pack of young American up-and-comers.
Jason Estrada, USA – He meets Travis Walker in November in a rare meeting of two undefeated young talents. The fight will tell us a lot about both men.
Roman Greenberg, England (via Israel) – The talented 24 year-old takes on Russian journeyman Alexei Varakin in November before moving on the United States to fight for Warrior Boxing. He’s already scheduled for a December match. We have a feeling that American fans are going to embrace him soon.
Damian Wills, USA – November will already include a Jason Estrada-Travis Walker matchup of unbeaten and talented American heavyweights. The other big match will be the Damian Wills-Chris Arreola in a battle of unbeatens. Wills is 21-0-1 and coming in off a win over tough guy Cisse Salif while Arreola is 17-0.
Albert Sosnowski, Poland – The 38-1 (23 KOs) Sosnowski is set for a November shot at the most obscure of alphabet titles. It’s hard to gauge his talent given that his best victory is a 2005 six-round decision over a 40 year-old Orlin Norris. His single loss was to Canadian Arthur Cook in 2001.
In the month of November we will learn a lot about the future of the division. Wladimir Klitschko faces America’s top heavyweight Calvin Brock. Early in the month Serguei Liakhovich takes on one-time lineal champ Shannon Briggs.
Perhaps of greater long-term importance are the bouts that won’t be on television and will gain little notice in the sports media.
A bevy of unbeaten hot prospects will meet in November. Damian Wills will meet Chris Arreola. Former Olympian Jason Estrada will face Travis Walker. How rare is it that young heavyweights with fat unblemished records square off? Such matchmaking is to be commended. The winners of these bouts will exit the ring with far more credentials than they could gain by fighting a dozen palookas.
Potential future star Roman Greenberg meets journeyman Alexei Varakin in Monaco. Greenberg is a likely easy winner there, but what’s important is that after this bout he moves to the U.S. to fight under the promotional banner of Warrior Boxing. Americans will be buzzing about him within a year.
Unfortunately the saga of the formerly great Evander Holyfield continues in November. He is scheduled to take on Fres Oquendo in a bout that will likely spell an embarrassing end for the “Real Deal.” Oquendo is far from being a great fighter but all he has to be is good to beat the 43 year-old version of Evander.
Finally, there’s much buzz about the Australian “Superfighter” tournament that may include many of the top heavyweights and cruiserweight champion O’Neil Bell. The multi-fight format, all to be held in one day, appears to be taking a page from the mixed-martial arts world --- one of the few fighting sports that is exploding with fan recognition. The multi-million dollar payout is almost shocking if it pans out. Let’s hold off making any judgments about its effect on boxing until it unfolds.
Once again, my thanks to Brian Bizzack and Troy Ondrizek heavyweight trackers extraordinaire.
* * *
1. Wladimir Klitschko, Ukraine – IBF Champion (Last month #1) Klitschko is not wasting his time with also-rans. In Calvin Brock he’ll find a tough, undefeated, and smart fighter who can punch. Brock will force Klitschko to be sharp in all departments, power, speed, and boxing ability.
2. Serguei Liakhovich, Belarus – WBO Champion (Last month #2) If he cannot get past Shannon Briggs, his title-winning effort against Brewster will be seen as a mere illusion. Should he win, as expected, he should clamor for a shot at the winner of Klitschko-Brock.
3. Calvin Brock, USA (Last month #3) Brock’s golden opportunity awaits as he meets arguably the best heavyweight in the world in Wladimir Klitschko. Beating Klitschko would mean vast riches. It’s a giant leap for Brock.
4. Samuel Peter, Nigeria (Last month #5 Tie) The WBC never ceases to embarrass the sport. Peter who received a controversial, but fair, decision over Toney with the promise of a mandatory shot at Oleg Maskaev, was presented with a shot to the groin by the WBC which ordered a rematch. Look, Toney already leap-frogged the then-number 1 Maskaev to get a “mandatory” against Hasim Rahman. What gives? Why the special treatment?
5. James Toney, USA (Last month #5 Tie) Yes, we thought he deserved the nod against Peter but no, we do not think the WBC was right to essentially nullify the judgment of the ringside officials for the purpose of giving him another chance at Peter. Sam Peter won the fight in the eyes of the officials at ringside and thus should have received an unhindered shot at Maskaev. (By the way --- we won’t have any more ties in the ratings).
6. Oleg Maskaev, Uzbekistan / USA – WBC Champion (Last month #7) Once he gets past Peter Okhello in a December embarrassment, maybe we can talk about a serious fight. We can’t be surprised that the WBC is allowing this debacle to take place --- and we’ll say that even if Okhello lands a haymaker that ends it all. While Klitschko takes on a proven and undefeated Brock, and Liakhovich battles veteran Briggs, Maskeav chooses to go a very different way. Too bad.
7. Hasim Rahman, USA – (Last Month #8) The “Rock” still retains a number three rating in the WBC which could mean another title shot down the road is not out of the question. Nothing is scheduled.
8. Lamon Brewster, USA (Last month #4) Time continues to work against the injured former titlist.
9. Nicolay Valuev, Russia – WBA Champion (Last month #9) He came and he conquered – sort of. There is no doubt that beating the big guy will prove difficult for anyone. His size, awkwardness and sturdy chin require a solid all-round fighter to beat him. Barrett was a decent heavyweight, but Valuev is just a cut above his level. Look for Valuev to defend against the winner of the Ruiz-Chagaev match in Germany.
10. Sultan Ibragimov, Russia (Last month #10) The tough Russian has big opportunities, most likely is a shot at the winner of Liakhovich-Briggs.
11. Ray Austin, USA (Last month #11) A solid draw with Ibragimov in July and nothing since. What is the 35 year-old “Rainman” waiting for?
12. John Ruiz, USA (Last month #12) He signed with all the right folks to ensure that he has a chance at another title shot. All that stands in his way is Ruslan Chagaev. Ruiz and his handlers may very well have outsmarted themselves. Don’t be surprised to see Ruiz quietly lose and fade away. Always keep in mind, however, that John Ruiz has had more lives than any heavyweight in the game. He may have the last laugh.
13. Shannon Briggs, USA (Last month #13) The “Cannon’s” last best shot comes early in November against Liakhovich. His best shot in the bout will be in the early rounds with explosive punches. If Liakhovich is still there in the middle rounds it could be curtains for Briggs.
14. Ruslan Chagaev, Uzbekistan (Last month #14) Expect the tough Uzbeki to power his way to victory over a hugging John Ruiz in November.
15. DaVarryl Williamson, USA (Last month #15) Rumors have dissipated for possible bout withPrzemyslaw Saleta. It’s wait and see.
16. Fres Oquendo, USA (Last month #16) Fres will likely end the career of former great Evander Holyfield when they meet in November. A win in the bout proves little – and a loss is a total disaster. At this stage Fres is probably a little too quick for the 43 year-old. It won’t be pretty.
17. Matt Skelton, England (Last month #17) A December date with the formerly highly-touted Audley Harrison is likely all that is between him and a world title shot. It’s too close to call.
18. Jameel McCline, USA (Last month #18) Another fighter lured by the prospect of a mega payday in the Superfighter tournament scheduled for December. If this tourney happens McCline has as good a chance as anyone to take it.
19. Danny Williams, England (Last month #19) We fully expect that Danny will next face British champ Scott Gammer. It’s make or break.
20. Luan Krasniqi, Germany (Last month #20) After nearly an eight-month layoff, he’s scheduled to return to action in December against an as yet named opponent (read: palooka).
21. Tony Thompson, USA (Last month #21) A big win on televison against Dominick Guinn in June and nothing since. You’re blowing it kid.
22. David Tua, New Zealand (Last month #22) – Scheduled to return to action against shopworn vet Ross Purritty in November. A win proves little but at least it’s activity.
23. Vladimir Virchis, Ukraine (Last month #23) The EBU titlist will likely have to defend against Sinan Samil Sam early next year. For reasons we can’t figure out, Sam gets shot after shot at big matches.
24. Alexander Dimitrenko, Ukraine (Last month unranked) – The youngster earned his first signficant victory by blasting out fellow giant Gonzalo Omar Basile in Stuttgart in October. The win allows him to crack the top 25. Of course we must be cautious in ascribing great significance to the win. Basile had never ventured out of South America before and had never met anyone remotely close to the class of Dimitrenko. His fat record could have been an illusion --- time will tell.
25. Eddie Chambers, USA (Last month #25) The young Philly star is in the right place to continue his development. At 27-0, the 24 year-old has plenty of time to continue the climb if he has the real stuff within him.
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Prospects, fringe contenders, and others who need mentioning listed in no particular order. Don’t read the fact that they are listed here as an indication a ranking is imminent. Regular readers should also note that I’ve taken off some names that were here in months past who still rate attention. We're highlighting activity and when potentially top fighters have bouts scheduled you’ll likely see them reappear.
*************************************************************************
Alexander Povetkin, Russia – The 9-0 former Olympic gold medal winner is set for a December match in Moscow. Soon, you can expect to see American TV outlets such as HBO and Showtime clamoring for the broadcast rights to this – perhaps the most talented of young heavyweights.
Chris Byrd, USA – Scheduled to participate in the so-called “Superfighter” tournament in Australia in December. We don’t think Chris is thinking about recapturing any titles anytime soon. Of course if he wins the tourney he’ll gain a payday bigger than he ever saw as the heavyweight titlist.
Monte Barrett, USA (Last month #24) “Two Gunz” gave it his best but it just wasn’t close to good enough to take Valuev. He won a couple of rounds but he went wobbly often. The stoppage loss will likely mean no more shots – although in the eyes of the WBA his loss against Rahman was enough to propel him to a title shot with Valuev. Nonetheless, at 35 Barrett’s days as a serious contender are done.
Oliver McCall, USA – Yet another possible participant in the Superfighter tournament. His classic jab will give someone fits. However, at 41 the multiple bout format may prove a stretch.
Joe Mesi, USA – Last fought in September in a four-rounder. Despite being 33-0, and holding some key victories years ago, “Baby Joe” still doesn’t seem on track yet. Eventually he’ll meet a top ten fighter and we’ll find out what he has left.
Chazz Witherspoon, USA – “The Gentleman” stayed busy in October with a three-round stoppage of Earl Ladson (now 12-12-1) to advance his record to 15-0 (9 KOs). The fight was held under the promotional auspices of “Terrible” Tim Witherspoon.
Gonzalo Omar Basile, Argentina – Were all those wins worthy of our notice? His one-round blowout loss to Dimitrenko in a mere 54 seconds obviously makes us wonder. He has a lot of explaining to do – preferably with his fists.
J.D. Chapman, USA – At 25-0, the 23 year-old has a bevy of low-level belts including the Arkansas, NABC, WBC Latino, and IBF/USBA regional titles. Of course none of those belts have much intrinsic meaning, but needless to say that if he keeps winning he’ll get shots at belts that do mean something.
Scott Gammer, England – Successfully defended his British belt against Michael Steeds in October. Don’t be surprised to see a match made with Danny Williams next. A win there and Gammer will be a player.
Denis Boytsov, Russia – The talented 20 year-old is now 16-0 (15 KOs). He has faced modest opposition to date but he seems to have a spark.
Travis Walker, USA – With his November date set with Jason Estrada, Walker has the opportunity to break away from the pack of young American up-and-comers.
Jason Estrada, USA – He meets Travis Walker in November in a rare meeting of two undefeated young talents. The fight will tell us a lot about both men.
Roman Greenberg, England (via Israel) – The talented 24 year-old takes on Russian journeyman Alexei Varakin in November before moving on the United States to fight for Warrior Boxing. He’s already scheduled for a December match. We have a feeling that American fans are going to embrace him soon.
Damian Wills, USA – November will already include a Jason Estrada-Travis Walker matchup of unbeaten and talented American heavyweights. The other big match will be the Damian Wills-Chris Arreola in a battle of unbeatens. Wills is 21-0-1 and coming in off a win over tough guy Cisse Salif while Arreola is 17-0.
Albert Sosnowski, Poland – The 38-1 (23 KOs) Sosnowski is set for a November shot at the most obscure of alphabet titles. It’s hard to gauge his talent given that his best victory is a 2005 six-round decision over a 40 year-old Orlin Norris. His single loss was to Canadian Arthur Cook in 2001.
posted by JE Boxing at Sunday, October 29, 2006
69 Comments:
James Toney is going to bust up Sam "Humpty Dumpty" Peter
Well, let's take a little sneaky-peaky here............
I just quickly browsed over the names, and it looks solid as usual. I'm glad you took my advice on the Peter-Toney thing. (I struggled a bit with that one as well...) I still would have to (reluctantly) put Maskaev at #4 or #5, not because I think he is that good, but based off his victory over the top-ranked Rahman. (As it turns out, he wasn't all that good either...) One move I don't quite understand J.E? BREWSTER AT #8. I know you don't like inactivity, and neither do I, but it hasn't been THAT long since this guy last fought J.E. He has a victory over #1 Vlad, and put up a good fight against #2 Sergei in April. His days may very well be over due to his injury and general wear & tear, but until it reaches one full year of inactivity...I would put this guy somewhere between #3 and #5 personally.
P.S - We can forget about Gonzalo now. In the large scheme of things - he's nothing more than a journeymen. And not exactly a young one at that. He's just taking up space there. A young prospect/contender should now take his place.
No doubt on Gonzalo. He disappears next month. He'll have to score 11 victories in 2007 as he did this year to reappear :)
Well...If he stays in South America and is active - perhaps he will! (LOL) Yeah...It makes a bit more sense that young pro Povetkin was originally scheduled to face him. Despite his record - he wasn't much. Just a journeymen in disguise, really.
Alrighty...I shall now proceed to read the list in all of it's glorious entirity...;-)
I enjoyed the insight of the top 25 contenders. Klitchko and Lyakovich seem to be on a collison course. Maskaev and Valuev I am sure will stay away from fighting contenders as long as they can. I would like to see some consideration on the "other group" outside the top 25 for Tye Fields. he could win the Australian tourney. Speaking of four round fighters Joe Mesi's should not be given an encouragement of continuing what was once a good prospect and contender. He doesn't even look the same let alone fight the same.
JE- After the Toney fight, I told myself that Holyfield was stick-a-fork-in-him-done, and I would never watch him fight again. There is now part of me that is starting to think perhaps a 'healthy' (shoulder) Holyfield has a chance against Oquendo. There is also part of me that wants to believe in life on other planets, The Lochness Monster, etc. Please at least set me stright on this Holyfield nonsense J.E. I'm begging you.
*BB*
I don't think it is his shoulder --- it is his 44 year-old shoulder. Too many years of age and pounding. Despite that, he does have a slight chance but only because Oquendo is not all the good.
Damnit...I TOTALLY agree with you...But I find myself tempted to reach for my wallet J.E. (Daminit! Chop my arms off J.E! LOL)
P.S - Ondrizek will be arriving shortly. He's been on a much-needed vacation.
A couple of noteworthy upcoming fights...
Povetkin vs. Purrity (Dec. 10 - 10 rounds.)
Detweiler vs. Sprott (Dec 16 - 10 rounds)
I thought Purritty was injured????
Yeah...It's kind of up in the air...(???)
I don't quite know how to put this, but here you go...
This site...And the top-25...Is "Mother's Milk".
;-)
*BB*
One thing about Roman Greenberg, and a few other young hvy's, is this I.M.O...
They are under the impression that they need to 'beef up' to the 230's. Who am I to say - but I think they are wrong. Yes, I think you need to be over 200.lbs. in this day and age, but I think Roman - and a few others - would be better suited in the 220's and/or 2-teens.
I agree, "beefing up" is not the way to go. It is a very individual thing. Remember, Larry Holmes won the heavyweight title at a mere 209 pounds. I feel confident he could mow down virtually any of the real big men of the division since.
Did anyone notice that Briggs came in at 268? What can he be thinking?
I've always noticed that Liakhovich doesn't have the Adonis body --- to me he looks today as he always has looked.
Boy do we ever have a 'fine mess' now. Looks like we may have our work cut out for us for Dec., eh Mr.Grant? (LOL)
Well, the fight kind of stunk for 11 rounds - and I found the 12th to be 'mildly horrifying' as a Sergei friend/fan of sorts - but I also found the fight to be a bit 'oddly compelling & intriguing'. Alot of issues/questions there. Anyways, I'll expound upon that a bit more later. I'll be back.
* Sidenote - The hvy division once again appears to cry out for a sense of order and command. Perhaps Vlad will continue his reign of solid-but-shaky dominance, with an increasing trend & empthasis on the prior. I do give Brock a chance next week though. Anyhow, once again I tempted and obligated to gaze at the young 'Fab Four hvys' for signs of hope; Povetkin, Boytsov, Greenberg, and Dimitrinko.
Gentlemen...Your time is soon. The door to the empty room may be locked - but one of you boys has the key in your pocket.
;-)
Greenberg and Sosnowski both won on the same day. I think that Briggs and Liakhovich will end up in the lower half of the top 10. Neither proved impressive. It's ironic that everything in my prediction was essentially right about Briggs. He was blowing hard by round 4 and his excessive weight made him much slower than normal. Liakhovich simply didn't take over the fight despite being ahead 106-103 on my card. He should've dominated 5-12.
P.S - As for the latter, I suppose Liahkovich stays somewhere in the top-10, and Briggs goes into the top-10 somewhere, but a notch above Sergei.
* Sheesh...What are we gonna do if Brock scores an upset? In that event, we may have to call in some beauracratic government workers to look over and overanalyze the situation much like the "7-thousand dollar hammer". (LOL)
10-4 J.E. (You beat me to it! On the same wavelength yet again) Also agreed on the latter. Sergei probably SHOULD have won that fight. He just didn't take command and force a faster pace. Was it out of apprehension due to getting 'buzzed' in the 1st? I don't know. But he was throwing very few combinations etc...
One brief thing about the 12th: Going into that round, I had Sergei up 7-4. I said to myself: "This is going to be very interesting as to what Kenny says to him". Well, I actually thought he gave him the proper advice. Had Briggs won that 12th round, I would have had it 7-5. That's a bit too close for comfort. And who knows how the judges may have had it? (We know now - and there cards were appropriate - but we didn't know at the time.)
* This kind of bnrings up 'open scoring'. As for that - I don't particuarly like the idea. Nuff said.
BTW - I think Sergei is deserving of a rematch - and I wouldn't mind seeing an immediate one - but it probably won't happen. The fight (overall) stunk, and I think Sergei will now become avoided like the plague. This was a closely contested bout, and only his second loss, but simply put -- it was a damaging one to his career. VERY damaging. He had virtually come from nowhere and was within grasp of reaching the mountain top. And now...He doesn't quite go back to the level of pre-Brewster obscurity, but he's not within reach of the zenith either. He's thrown into a 'land' somewhere in-between, where I fear he may languish for some time. At 30 - he's still relatively young, but he's 'relatively old' as well. And even though Briggs and Klitschko bounced back from a few defeats, I'm afraid that the fact of the matter is Sergei just isn't as MARKETABLE as those two. Especially after the 'tepid' nature of this fight. Had Sergei won closely and ugly, it wouldn't have been 'good', but OKAY. But to LOSE here...Was bad. I don't say this lightly, but with 'politcs' and such, this could have - for all intents & purposes - been a 'career killer'.
Here is kind of an interesting fight guys...
Briggs-Brewster in 2007?
I think that would probably be an exciting fight, but...With both of their low punch per-rounds, there is also a chance it could be a horrible stinker. Anyways, with all due respect Brewster & Briggs - two good but-not-great hvy's - I would have cringed if you would have told me a few years ago that they may be soon fighting for 'top honors', and I slightly cringe even now. JE, I know this is something that you and I have disagreed on a bit in the past, but (possibly excliding this 'new wave' of hvy's that will soon emerge) I think this current era/decade is just a horrible mish-mash of mediocrity. We were treated to a great one in the 90's, so perhaps that's just how the pendulum swings. And yes, ONE world champion would indeed work minor miracles though. (Vlad without a doubt the general consensus #1 guy at this point.) But it's like it's all B and C level out there. There is no 'A-level', with the slight possible exception of Vlad. (i.e. it's kind of like the 80's...But there is no Holmes. Perhaps there is a 'late 80's' Tyson or Holyfield out there ready to emerge though...;-)
Oh...(I think I just broke my previous record for consecutive unanswered posts) No doubt the winner of Ruiz-Chageav will be top-10 material. (Please god don't let it be Ruiz...;-(
No doubt that a 250 pound Briggs would prove more able to finish big.
T.O - Perhaps you are partially correct in that. Perhaps I should be giving Briggs a tad bit more credit that way. Let me think, and perhaps watch the fight again. (On second thought, perhaps I'll just take your word for it. That fight was too dreadfully boring for 11 rounds to suffer through again! lol)
As for Ibragimov-Briggs, I have mixed-feelings. On the plus side, Ibragimov has fast hands, better-than average power, and will almost CERTAINLY force a much faster pace. On the negative side...His defense is a bit leaky, he leaves himself very vulnerable at times (I hate the way he crosses his feet sometimes...) and while he may indeed posess a good chin, as evidenced by his last fight - it's not an 'undentable' steel-like one. He can be floored, and I could see Briggs blasting him out. I could also see Sultan blasting HIM out, or 'drowning' him in the mid or late rounds.
Translation: Tough call, and (depending) upon the odds -- one I probably wouldn't bet.
Agreed on the weight guys. At least 250. His hand speed - while still decent - has really declined with the weight. And his stamina...Was both a bit impressive, and not so impressive. (i.e. he was huffing-and-puffing like mad towards the end, and admitted that he was VERY tired. I was kinda like...From what? From that turtle-like pace? (I mean, I know it was the 12th round, and I could never last more than a few rounds before exaustion set in, but that was at best slightly comical, and at worst a bit alarming.)
BTW - Troy (and others) I would give Povetkin and ALL those others I listed (sans the VERY young Boytsov. Go ahead and subsitute Ibragimov's name for his temporarily in the following reference, and add Chagaev as well here) a GOOD chance of beating Briggs, Valuev, and Maskaev RIGHT-NOW-AS-WE-SPEAK. I spit-you-not.
* I hear what you are saying Troy, and perhaps there is more validity to that than what initially met the eye on the surface. But while I give Briggs alot of credit for closing the show in the 12th, and the bottom-line is he won, and beat a legit top contender, I was still more disappointed in Sergei's performance...Than I was impressed by Shannon's.
Oh...Arreola stopped Willis in the seventh stanza...
*BB*
BTW- I heard that Greenberg looked very rusty and far-from-impressive in his when over the journeyman. The score was basically tied at 3-3 at the time of the KO. By his own admission, he was rusty and had a bit off an "off night"...
P.S - Troy, I like Povetkin alot, but I still think my top long-range prospect is probably Boytsov.
* Obvious typo - WIN.
;-(
* Note - I just read that Briggs had a mild to moderate asthma attack in the fight. I don't doubt this, and had indeed kind of forgotten about his issues with that.
(Okay guys, I'm out for the day. It's all yours...;-)
I doubt anyone had an asthma attack. He could not have struggled through it.
I think we'll all get to see Greenberg fairly soon.
Arreola beat Wills by stoppage. I've already written the segment for the next Top 25.
Of course anyone who can make Briggs work hard early can win the day. He has above average power -- but he's not the second coming of George Foreman.
Well...You don't think a MINOR asthma attack is possible guys? I don't know...I know little about it, but it seemed plausible to me. I knew he supposedly had issues with it years ago, and I know it can be quite debilitating if a severe enough attack. I also noticed that as soon as the early rounds they were REALLY focused on his breathing in the corner. Perhaps there is something a bit 'hokie' about it, I don't know...But this much I DO know: T.O has balls the size of Nicolay Valuev's head for telling that big shetland pony/gorrila "bullshit"! (LOL!)
As for Povetkin/Boytsov Troy, I agree that (naturally) Povetkin's skills are much more polished and refined than Boytsov's. That's to be expected due to A.P's long and decorated am career. So as far as that goes, he is kind of "light years ahead of Boytsov" currently. But as far as raw overall package and long-range potential? I may disagree. I haven't decided yet, but I think that area may be very close. You have to keep in mind that Boytsov is a mere 20 yrs. old. Unless you are prodigy/man-child ala Mike Tyson and peak at 20-21 or a few others in history, it really doesn't get that much better (more advanced) for a 20 yr.old hvy. As for the cruiserweight thing, I disagree. And you know me; I think virtually all big lt.hvy's and small hvy's should be cruisers. Aleeksev? Yes. Boytsov? I really don't think so. He's very young, and built very solidly in the 2-teens. I don't see him getting much bigger than that (I think 2-teens/220's is where he will indeed be, POSSIBLY 230's) But among other things, he would have a pretty tough time getting down to 200.lbs, I would venture to say. Especially in the years to come. Naw...At 6'0"-6'1" he's not a 'big hvy', but he's not that 'little' of one either. Hvy is where he belongs I.M.O.
* Another thing we obviously don't really know about yet are the 'intangibles'. I was a bit bothered by Povetkin's recent remark of planning on retiring at the end of 2008, and for all we know Boytsov may 'fold up his tent' the moment he gets in with a big puncher ala Bruce Seldon. With a young cruiser soon-to-be-hvy Holyfield at the time, you didn't really know exactly what kind of hvy he would be (I was raving about him since the Olympics) but one thing you DID know is that intagibles/heart/dedication weren't going to be an issue. ("Little Evander" down below turned out to be a bit of an unexpected issue though! "The lord did indeed work in mysterious ways there"...LOL)
I just saw Greenbergs latest fight. Aside from the beauty of a punch he uncorked to end matters, it was not a very impressive showing at all. He looked a bit heavy and out of shape at 230-something, and very flat the first few rounds. It was an even fight until the KO at 3-3. And the guy he was fighting wasn't bad -- but he wasn't that good either. He was definetly fighting down to the level of his competition. His trainer really tore him a new one after the sixth though, and it seemed to light a bit of a fire under him. I also for the first time couldn't help but be a bit reminded of another guy for the first time while watching Greenberg, one that invokes both good and not-so-good frustrating thoughts.
Michael Moorer.
(Perhaps it was just a rusty and off performance. But he's had a few of those. He's been a bit 'streaky', and needs to put his nose-to-the-grindstone, get his-ass-in-the-gym, and get down to business and become more consistent.)
* BTW - I just read Jeff Mayweather will be training Sultan Ibragimov. Huh...Kind of interesting. He's a pretty good trainer. The first thing I would strongly advise though, is that he places a shock collar on Sultan and buzzes it everytime he does that cross his legs crossover move. I can be open-minded when it comes to being a bit 'unconventional' -- but that's just plain BAD. He's so vulnerable when he does that. And if nothing else, he can also be easily knocked off balance and suffer a flash-knockdown which could cost him in a close fight.
That list just goes to sum up the heavyweight division at the moment - its aweful!!! There are no great fighters in there at all. What ever happened to the Tysons and Ali's of the world. Now we're left with the likes of Audley Harrison!!!
Yeah, even though their last fight was a draw, I think Sultan has a tad more 'upside' than Austin. And while he's no 'spring chicken' himself, he is a few years younger. As for Briggs-Valuev, anytime a unification fight happens it's a pretty good thing. But I highly doubt that one will come to fruition anytime in the near immediate future. (It's an ugly sounding fight...But a bit oddly intriguing. I would say that one would be about a 'tossup'. I still don't think Valuev is that good, but he's not absolutely horrible either. And he looks to have a good chin and is of course HUGE.
As for Dimitrinko -- I think that would be an EXCELLENT fight and test for him. I hope that one happens (I mean he fought all of ONE round in his recent fight, I don't see why not.) But yeah, I would make that one at the most about a 40% chance it happens. If it does (and I do think there is a FAIR chance it will) I would make A.D the slight but-not-overwhelming favorite. (The more I think about it, even though it's a bit of a risky fight for him, I think that fight - at this point in his career - really makes sense in just about every way imaginable. * Krasniqi-Thompson would have been kind of interesting too. Krasniqi is nothing great, but he's good boxer. No doubt. He just doesn't quite have the entire package, and also lacks a (little) in the 'heart' department. Boy -- With both 35 and having a few losses, the loser would have been practically stick-a-fork-in-him DONE as far as any real future chance of true contention.
P.S - Did you hear about Sergei? (I thought I forwarded an email regarding that, but perhaps not. Anyways, you can catch it on one of the Multiply threads. (In short -- the guy was really injured going into the fight, and possibly much more afterwards.
I thought they were going to put Dimitrenko in again in December due to his 1 round KO. That's what the German press is saying at any rate. I would imagine it would be a low level guy.
Well...Vlad stays at #1, and Brock certainly stays in the top-10, possibly even the top-5.
More to come...
Wlad is a very firm #1. There was a clear class difference. Brock is probably still a top 10 guy but I can see some guys getting to him.
Oh, NO doubt Vlad is #1, but NO doubt Brock is still a top-10 guy. I had the fight very close after six.
Oh, NO doubt Vlad is #1, but NO doubt Brock is still a top-10 guy. I had the fight very close after six.
Povetkin is no scheduled to fight Imanu Mayfield on Dec.10. Mayfield is really a cruiser, and is a journeymen, but is a suitable and respectable opponent for a young pro like Povetkin. He's really not a step down from a 40-yr.old Ross Purrity at all, although he's not as big, strong, and powerful, and his chin may not be quite as good. (I know it just sounds like I contradicted myself there, but I really think they are on about the same level. Mayfield is faster, just as skilled if not more, and has good stamina.)
I'm going out on a limb this month --- I'm putting Povetkin in the top 25. Fres Oquendo is out (and in good conscience I can't put Holyfield in). The Oquendo-Holyfield bout proved conclusively that neither belong anywhere near the top.
Dimitrenko is facing Billy Zumbrun in December. I guess they just want him to stay busy.
I received a note from the Superfighter people saying that the tournament is cancelled.
J.E - I would actually have to put EH in the top-25. As for Povetkin -- not a bad move. As for Zumbrun -- it's a good stay-busy fight for A.D. Nothing more, nothing less.
JE - I hate to say this about a fighter with only (potentially) one loss, but I'm going to go out on a limb and state the following: If Ruslan Chagaev does not beat a mid-30's John Ruiz (and I don't care HOW he does it) I will FOREVER write him off as a potentially ELITE top-notch hvy in the future. I feel quite strongly about this folks.
;-(
I'm with you on that.
To be honest, Mayfield is no worse a selection than "Paunchy Chauncy". (I actually like that kid. He almost seems to nice to be a professional prizefighter...)
As for Chagaev, like I said - I don't really care HOW he does it, just so long as he DOES it. But if he REALLY wants to make a statement? He will KTFO Ruiz! (And if the guy loses, even if it's close? He will FOREVER be in my doghouse gents...)
Emm...Truer words were never spoken. I'm just (hoping!) this is the end though...
Well...*Chuckle,cringe* He won. But BARELY. He (Ruslan) won a SPLIT decision.
What does this mean? Simply put; Chagaev is GOOD...But DEFINETLY not GREAT!
Dimitrinko won a lopsided 12-round decision against Zumbrun. (Decision? Hmm...Zumbrun shouldn't have gone the distance I.M.O. )
Well...*Chuckle,cringe* He won. But BARELY. He (Ruslan) won a SPLIT decision.
What does this mean? Simply put; Chagaev is GOOD...But DEFINETLY not GREAT!
Dimitrinko won a lopsided 12-round decision against Zumbrun. (Decision? Hmm...Zumbrun shouldn't have gone the distance I.M.O. )
Chagaev pulled it off.......split decision. The write ups in the German press say he won -- Valuev said it was a clear victory.
Yeah, it was very close but legit from what I heard. Although one of the cards had kind of a ridiculous margin (at least on the surface) I don't know. He got the job done I guess...But a close split decision victory over an aging Ruiz is nothing to get me too excited.
BTW - Are you getting the fight tonight J.E?
I am getting the fight tonight.
Hell of a prediction on the fight J.E. Among other things, I heard Morales just had NO business fighting below 135.lbs at this stage.
I don't think it was just the weight. I think that at 135 or even 140 it wouldn't be that different. The timing and the mechanics are shot.
Yeah, from the sounds of it -- agreed. But I certainly don't think the 130 helped him any. (But like you say, probably a non-factor.) When I saw the pic of the weigh-in though I just cringed. Pac looked strong and ripped, and Morales...Looked like death warmed over. He looked like he just got out of Aushwitz.
It will be interesting to see if the WBC enforces a "mandatory" shot for Pacquiao against Barrera. My bet is that there will suddenly be "problems" that prevent the match.
"Problems" possibly preventing a good match that the public deserves to see, and caused by the sanctioning bodies?
I'm shocked you could think such a thing J.E...;)
* I think it's about 60-40 it happens...But I fear there is only a 30% chance of that...(lol)
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