One of Boxing greatest commentator and writer passes on.May his soul rest in peac.
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Vitali Klitschko to fight Dereck Chisora in Munich, says German press
Vitali Klitschko will defend his WBC heavyweight title against Britain's Dereck Chisora in Munich on 18 February, according to Bild newspaper.
Klitschko told the German newspaper that Chisora, who lost to Robert Helenius in a split decision on 3 December, is "an interesting opponent. For me he clearly won the [vacant] European title fight against Helenius."
Bild said the 40-year-old Ukrainian wants to fight at least two bouts next year, before letting fans make a decision on his retirement. One of those could be a bout against David Haye in Germany in July.
If you think Chisora will make it past the Ukrainian, post your comment
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Vitali Victorious
Vitali Klitschko retained his WBC heavyweight title with a dominant performance against Polish challenger Tomasz Adamek on Saturday, winning by technical knockout in the 10th round in Wroclaw, Poland.
The 40-year-old Klitschko used his considerable size advantage to keep the 34-year-old Adamek at bay with his powerful jab and was in complete control throughout the bout. Adamek stayed on his feet but his face was bruised and bloodied by the time Italian referee Massimo Barrovecchio stepped in to stop the punishment two minutes, 20 seconds into the 10th round.
"He's a very good boxer," Klitschko said. "He was a cruiserweight champion, he was a light heavyweight champion, but he's not good enough to be a heavyweight champion because it's a whole other league."
The 40-year-old Klitschko was six inches taller than his opponent and used his superior reach to have Adamek staggering back in the second, sixth and ninth rounds.
Klitschko slipped in the eighth, but carried on where he left off in the ninth and 10th to improve his record to 43-2, including 40 knockouts. Adamek drops to 44-2.
The win means Klitschko and his younger brother, Wladimir, retain their hold on all three major heavyweight titles.
"I think the referee made the right decision. He probably could have stopped it a minute earlier," said Wladimir, who holds the IBF and "super" WBA titles as well as the minor WBO and IBO belts.
It was the first heavyweight fight held in Poland, and Adamek was cheered on by a majority of the 42,000 spectators at Wroclaw's sold-out soccer stadium, which was built for next year's European Championship.
Klitschko weighed in for his 15th title fight at 242.5 pounds — the lightest he's been since 1998 — but still towered over his opponent, and the 216-pound Adamek simply couldn't reach him.
Adamek tried to force the issue in the second round but was caught by a huge right hook that left him wobbling against the ropes and the crowd fearing an early outcome.
Adamek recovered slightly in the fourth, despite a bloody nose and mouth, but failed to really trouble Klitschko.
Barrovecchio checked that Adamek was fit to continue after taking a powerful left-right combination in the sixth, and Klitschko's left foot gave way while pushing Adamek into the corner in the eighth.
"I twisted my foot and lost my balance," he explained.
But the outcome was never in doubt, and Klitschko again had Adamek staggering after delivering a straight left jab to the head in the ninth.
It was only a matter of time before Adamek's challenge was brought to a halt.
"He was simply the better fighter and he won," Adamek said. "That's sport. You win some and you lose some. This time I lost."
The 40-year-old Klitschko used his considerable size advantage to keep the 34-year-old Adamek at bay with his powerful jab and was in complete control throughout the bout. Adamek stayed on his feet but his face was bruised and bloodied by the time Italian referee Massimo Barrovecchio stepped in to stop the punishment two minutes, 20 seconds into the 10th round.
"He's a very good boxer," Klitschko said. "He was a cruiserweight champion, he was a light heavyweight champion, but he's not good enough to be a heavyweight champion because it's a whole other league."
The 40-year-old Klitschko was six inches taller than his opponent and used his superior reach to have Adamek staggering back in the second, sixth and ninth rounds.
Klitschko slipped in the eighth, but carried on where he left off in the ninth and 10th to improve his record to 43-2, including 40 knockouts. Adamek drops to 44-2.
The win means Klitschko and his younger brother, Wladimir, retain their hold on all three major heavyweight titles.
"I think the referee made the right decision. He probably could have stopped it a minute earlier," said Wladimir, who holds the IBF and "super" WBA titles as well as the minor WBO and IBO belts.
It was the first heavyweight fight held in Poland, and Adamek was cheered on by a majority of the 42,000 spectators at Wroclaw's sold-out soccer stadium, which was built for next year's European Championship.
Klitschko weighed in for his 15th title fight at 242.5 pounds — the lightest he's been since 1998 — but still towered over his opponent, and the 216-pound Adamek simply couldn't reach him.
Adamek tried to force the issue in the second round but was caught by a huge right hook that left him wobbling against the ropes and the crowd fearing an early outcome.
Adamek recovered slightly in the fourth, despite a bloody nose and mouth, but failed to really trouble Klitschko.
Barrovecchio checked that Adamek was fit to continue after taking a powerful left-right combination in the sixth, and Klitschko's left foot gave way while pushing Adamek into the corner in the eighth.
"I twisted my foot and lost my balance," he explained.
But the outcome was never in doubt, and Klitschko again had Adamek staggering after delivering a straight left jab to the head in the ninth.
It was only a matter of time before Adamek's challenge was brought to a halt.
"He was simply the better fighter and he won," Adamek said. "That's sport. You win some and you lose some. This time I lost."
(Parts of this material is CBC.CA site)
Adamek and Klitschko Weigh In Results
September 9th - Wroclaw, Poland
Vitali Klitschko vs Tomasz Adamek
WBC World Heavyweight Championship
Miejski Stadium - Wroclaw, Poland
Saturday, September 10, 2011
MAIN EVENT 12 Rounds Heavyweight World Championship 23:05
RED CORNER
Vitali Klitschko vs Tomasz Adamek
WBC World Heavyweight Championship
Miejski Stadium - Wroclaw, Poland
Saturday, September 10, 2011
MAIN EVENT 12 Rounds Heavyweight World Championship 23:05
RED CORNER
Source:Eastsideboxing site.
Vitali Klitschko
Kiev, Ukraine
42-2-0, 39 KOs
110.2 kg
BLUE CORNER
Tomasz Adamek
Gilowice, Poland
44-1-0, 28 KOs
98 kg
ALL BOUTS LIVE AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE
1 Kilogram equals 2.2046 lbs
The WBC Heavyweight Championship battle featuring reigning WBC champion Vitali Klitschko, 42-2, 39 KO's and Tomasz Adamek, 44-1, 28 KO's, will be held Saturday, September 10th at the new Municipal Stadium in Wroclaw, Poland, www.stadionwroclaw.pl.
In Poland the fight broadcast begins at 9:00pm CET on PPV, check with local cable and satellite providers.The fight also will be shownt live, Saturday, September 10, on HBO World Championship Boxing at 4:45pm ET, with a replay at 10:30pm that night, and will re-air on September 11, 12 and 13, check your local listings.
Article posted on 10.09.2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Ranking Today’s Best Heavyweights: One Writer’s Current Top-Ten
By James Slater: There were two significant wins scored by heavyweights this past weekend, with the unbeaten duo that is Alexander
The current
Here I give my top-ten:
Champion: Wladimir Klitschko, 56-3(49) - Ring Magazine, WBA, IBF, WBO titleholder - last fight: WU12 David Haye.
1: Vitali Klitschko, 42-2(39) - WBC titleholder - last fight: WKO1 Odlanier Solis.
2: Alexander Povetkin, 22-0(15) - “regular” WBA titleholder - last fight: WU12 Ruslan Chagaev.
3: David Haye, 25-2(23) - last fight: LU12 Wladimir Klitschko.
4: Tomasz Adamek, 44-1(28) - last fight: WU12 Kevin McBride.
5: Eddie Chambers, 36-2(18) - last fight: WU12 Derric Rossy.
6: Tony Thompson, 36-2(24) - last fight: WTKO3 Maurice Harris.
7: Chris Arreola, 33-2(28) - last fight: WU10 Friday Ahunanya.
8: Ruslan Chagaev, 27-2-1(17) - last fight, LU12 Alexander Povetkin.
9: Robert Helenius, 16-0(11) - last fight: WTKO9 Siarhei Liakhovich.
10: Alexander Dimitrenko, 31-1(21) - last fight: WKO12 Albert Sosnowski.
Bubbling Under: Tyson Fury, 15-0(10) - last fight: WU12 Dereck Chisora.
Mike Perez, 16-0(12) - last fight: WTKO1 Tye Fields.
Kubrat Pulev, 13-0(6) - last fight:WU8 Maksym Pediura.
Bermane Stiverne, 21-1-1(20) - last fight: WTKO10 Ray Austin.
Denis Boytsov, 28-0(23) - last fight: WKO2 Mike Sheppard.
Copied from Eastsideboxing site
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
TIME TO MAKE HAYE
It’s now official that there would a unification bout between David “Hayemaker” Haye (25-1, 23 KO’s) and Wladmiri “Dr.Steel Hammer”Klitschko (55-3, 49 KO’s) on 2nd July 2011 at the 57,000-capacity Imtech Arena in Hamburg Germany for the WBA, WBO and IBF World Heavyweight Titles. It’s been a long time coming as this fight was originally scheduled to have taken place before now but has been put off on many occasion. Excitement and true opponent is what the boxing community has desired and we hope that this fixture will come to pass.
Immediately the news break that the fight is now official, the stakes favours “Dr.Stell Hammer” who has proven over time that he is not just a disciplined and courageous fighter but a true heavyweight puncher. More so, “British super middleweight and former 2008 Olympic Gold medalist James DeGale (10-8, 8 KO’s) is picking IBF/WBO heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko (55-3, 49 KO’s) to knockout WBA heavyweight champion David Haye (25-1, 23 Ko’s) on July 2nd when they meet at the Imtech stadium in Hamburg, Germany for their mega- fight”. Indeed on paper David Haye does not pose a treat to the IBF and WBO King who is standing at 6'6 ½ inches tall with 81 inches in reach. This erudite fighter is technically gifted, some pundits thinks he plays the game of chess with his opponent which if translated means that he is always three steps ahead of his opponents.
Despite this daunting attribute of Wladimir Klitschko, I strongly think the time for David Haye to make Haye is now. Just like few gave him chance to come out tops in the battle with Nicholay Valuev (who actually is less skillful and slow compared to the younger Klitschko) yet the Briton is all fired up, though he stands at 6'3 inches tall with 78" reach, He is 30 years old, five years younger than the IBF King. I consider this British fighter a little faster and hungrier than the younger Klitschko whom I believe would be fighting to punish David Haye for all the trash talking that he had done against him and his family, He will be fighting to please his elder brother who had allowed the opportunity to fight the Briton first. I think the bitterness in the mind of Wladimir Klitschko would be his greatest undoing. Haye has continued to trash talk as is traditional of great boxers of old, (Haye: Wladimir will panic when he gets hit and attempt to run while Vitali mops up tears in the corner). He believes that Wladimir is just another opponent that he will knock out quickly. According to Haye, “Wladimir will go to pieces mentally when he starts putting the leather on him on July 2nd in their fight at the Imtech stadium in Hamburg, Germany. Haye says this because he noted how Wladimir seemed to fall apart when hit hard in defeats to Corrie Sanders, Lamon Brewster and Ross Puritty in the past. Haye is going to try and make Wladimir relive that past by coming out fast and landing some big shots in close to hurt Wladimir and send him into a panic”. Those fights were big upset losses for Wladimir.
Recall also that Haye never stood toe to toe with Valuev rather he made the giant run round the ring making him loss steam and tire out quickly. The truth is that Haye will come with a game plan that will shock boxing pundits and the betting public.
Immediately the news break that the fight is now official, the stakes favours “Dr.Stell Hammer” who has proven over time that he is not just a disciplined and courageous fighter but a true heavyweight puncher. More so, “British super middleweight and former 2008 Olympic Gold medalist James DeGale (10-8, 8 KO’s) is picking IBF/WBO heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko (55-3, 49 KO’s) to knockout WBA heavyweight champion David Haye (25-1, 23 Ko’s) on July 2nd when they meet at the Imtech stadium in Hamburg, Germany for their mega- fight”. Indeed on paper David Haye does not pose a treat to the IBF and WBO King who is standing at 6'6 ½ inches tall with 81 inches in reach. This erudite fighter is technically gifted, some pundits thinks he plays the game of chess with his opponent which if translated means that he is always three steps ahead of his opponents.
Despite this daunting attribute of Wladimir Klitschko, I strongly think the time for David Haye to make Haye is now. Just like few gave him chance to come out tops in the battle with Nicholay Valuev (who actually is less skillful and slow compared to the younger Klitschko) yet the Briton is all fired up, though he stands at 6'3 inches tall with 78" reach, He is 30 years old, five years younger than the IBF King. I consider this British fighter a little faster and hungrier than the younger Klitschko whom I believe would be fighting to punish David Haye for all the trash talking that he had done against him and his family, He will be fighting to please his elder brother who had allowed the opportunity to fight the Briton first. I think the bitterness in the mind of Wladimir Klitschko would be his greatest undoing. Haye has continued to trash talk as is traditional of great boxers of old, (Haye: Wladimir will panic when he gets hit and attempt to run while Vitali mops up tears in the corner). He believes that Wladimir is just another opponent that he will knock out quickly. According to Haye, “Wladimir will go to pieces mentally when he starts putting the leather on him on July 2nd in their fight at the Imtech stadium in Hamburg, Germany. Haye says this because he noted how Wladimir seemed to fall apart when hit hard in defeats to Corrie Sanders, Lamon Brewster and Ross Puritty in the past. Haye is going to try and make Wladimir relive that past by coming out fast and landing some big shots in close to hurt Wladimir and send him into a panic”. Those fights were big upset losses for Wladimir.
Recall also that Haye never stood toe to toe with Valuev rather he made the giant run round the ring making him loss steam and tire out quickly. The truth is that Haye will come with a game plan that will shock boxing pundits and the betting public.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
SAMUEL PETER NOT SMASHED OFF YET
It’s not news anymore that Nigeria’s Heavyweight Pugilist Samuel “The Nigeria Nightmare” Peter(39:34-5,27KO’s) lost appallingly to up and coming heavyweight prospect Robert Helenius(15:15-0,10KO’s) The question evident in the mind of most Nigerians is why is the Akwa Ibom born pugilist still “wasting his time”? The few people I had opportunity of speaking with, suggested that the Nigerian Nightmare should quit the stage now.
I have a different view from the point where I stand. Samuel Peter should not think of quitting at this point in time, this may sound idealistic but you would agree with me that the most disappointing result he has mass so far, include his loss to “fast” Eddie Chambers and now Robert Helenius. Outside this two, he remains the only boxer in recent times that has agreed and eventually fought the Klitschko brothers and genuinely the second fight with Wlad should not have taken place if those advising him had done their job well. The truth must be told, Samuel Peter is a courageous fighter who does not dodge schedules whether against an up and coming or veterans. Let me, site some example, Alexander Povetkin has been number one contender for “ages” now and has systematically avoided the klitschko brothers, Wladmir to be precise. David ‘The Haye Maker” has talked much about his fighting the klitschko’s but has been postponed on many occasions and even now, we wait to see if the July date will be kept. Highly rated boxer like Chris Arriola, Kevin Johnson Odlanier Solís have all lost to the best in the game.
I strongly think that Samuel Peter has nothing to be ashamed of, he has given his best to every bout he has engaged in and we should never forget how he valiantly over came Jameel “Big Time” McCline. Thereby enlisting him as one of the fewest boxers in history that overcame a knock down.
To this end I strongly think that what the Nigerian Nightmare should is take his time,get into shape before accepting any match. He should get plenty tune up fights and don’t be in a haste to get a title shot. Once he shows up on the radar he will get suitable opponents. I must also commend this great and courageous boxer, for each time he steps out to do battle Nigeria is on the scene and the dead and almost forgotten game of boxing is once again remembered her at home. Thank you Big Sam.
I have a different view from the point where I stand. Samuel Peter should not think of quitting at this point in time, this may sound idealistic but you would agree with me that the most disappointing result he has mass so far, include his loss to “fast” Eddie Chambers and now Robert Helenius. Outside this two, he remains the only boxer in recent times that has agreed and eventually fought the Klitschko brothers and genuinely the second fight with Wlad should not have taken place if those advising him had done their job well. The truth must be told, Samuel Peter is a courageous fighter who does not dodge schedules whether against an up and coming or veterans. Let me, site some example, Alexander Povetkin has been number one contender for “ages” now and has systematically avoided the klitschko brothers, Wladmir to be precise. David ‘The Haye Maker” has talked much about his fighting the klitschko’s but has been postponed on many occasions and even now, we wait to see if the July date will be kept. Highly rated boxer like Chris Arriola, Kevin Johnson Odlanier Solís have all lost to the best in the game.
I strongly think that Samuel Peter has nothing to be ashamed of, he has given his best to every bout he has engaged in and we should never forget how he valiantly over came Jameel “Big Time” McCline. Thereby enlisting him as one of the fewest boxers in history that overcame a knock down.
To this end I strongly think that what the Nigerian Nightmare should is take his time,get into shape before accepting any match. He should get plenty tune up fights and don’t be in a haste to get a title shot. Once he shows up on the radar he will get suitable opponents. I must also commend this great and courageous boxer, for each time he steps out to do battle Nigeria is on the scene and the dead and almost forgotten game of boxing is once again remembered her at home. Thank you Big Sam.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Wladimir Klitschko retains double world heavyweight crown
By Gareth A Davies, Boxing CorrespondentPublished: 11:03PM BST 11 Sep 2010
Champion: Wladimir Klitschko got the better of Samuel Peter in tenth round to retain belts Photo: GETTY IMAGES
Peter had floored the giant Ukrainian three times in their previous encounter five years ago, and won on points by Klitschko on that occasion, yet this was dominant display from the 34 year-old champion, who eventually battered the Nigerian to the canvas in the tenth round under a barrage of punches to continue his ownership of the World Boxing Organisation and International Boxing Federation titles.
Peter’s heart was broken, his face a swollen mess, and his right eye almost closed. Klitschko may now go on to fight the winner of David Haye and Audley Harrison after their November 13 meeting. Challenger Peter was briefly in the running in the opening round, but Klitschko was even more aggressive in the second landing with several left-right combinations, hurting the Nigerian, who was warned for a low blow.
Peter looked unhappy on his stool coming out for the third round. Klitschko, 34, imposed himself and landed his jab and long straight right hand almost at will.
By the fifth, Peter’s eyes were beginning to close. Klitschko continued to wear Peter down as the African heavyweight threw himself forward, walking on to shots.
The younger of the Klitschko brothers landed a brutal uppercut in the sixth and by the eighth Peter looked a beaten challenger, fought desperately in the ninth, but by the tenth he was totally demoralised. Peter should probably have been pulled out earlier by his corner.
But this was another clinical performance from Klitschko, clearly the world’s No 1 heavyweight.
Champion: Wladimir Klitschko got the better of Samuel Peter in tenth round to retain belts Photo: GETTY IMAGES
Peter had floored the giant Ukrainian three times in their previous encounter five years ago, and won on points by Klitschko on that occasion, yet this was dominant display from the 34 year-old champion, who eventually battered the Nigerian to the canvas in the tenth round under a barrage of punches to continue his ownership of the World Boxing Organisation and International Boxing Federation titles.
Peter’s heart was broken, his face a swollen mess, and his right eye almost closed. Klitschko may now go on to fight the winner of David Haye and Audley Harrison after their November 13 meeting. Challenger Peter was briefly in the running in the opening round, but Klitschko was even more aggressive in the second landing with several left-right combinations, hurting the Nigerian, who was warned for a low blow.
Peter looked unhappy on his stool coming out for the third round. Klitschko, 34, imposed himself and landed his jab and long straight right hand almost at will.
By the fifth, Peter’s eyes were beginning to close. Klitschko continued to wear Peter down as the African heavyweight threw himself forward, walking on to shots.
The younger of the Klitschko brothers landed a brutal uppercut in the sixth and by the eighth Peter looked a beaten challenger, fought desperately in the ninth, but by the tenth he was totally demoralised. Peter should probably have been pulled out earlier by his corner.
But this was another clinical performance from Klitschko, clearly the world’s No 1 heavyweight.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
SUICIDE MISSION
Majority of Nigerians as at the last time I checked and even a cross section of boxing fans around the globe has written off what I think will be a tricky encounter. The Peter-Klitschko 2 is for me a very tricky encounter and one that I think will prove many critics wrong.
I have listened with avid interest to radio and television sports programmes, read sports pages of newspapers and none has spoken of this fight as a potential winner for the Nigerian Nightmare. Five years ago nobody gave him a chance against the erudite and athletic Wlad "Dr. Steel Hammer" Klitschko.(57:54-3;48KO’s) but on that occasion he knocked him down three times.
Aside the patriotic surge in my vein, I have been prudent enough to know that Samuel "The Nigerian Nightmare"Peter (37:34-27,3K.O) can pull of a surprise (To those who don’t know the build up to this fight). Here is an improved Samuel Peter with what I think is a better team that has focus on the heavyweight title. Whether Samuel Losses this one or not you will agree with me that he has only lost to the best in the division and would remain a major factor in today’s heavyweight structure.
This is why I must say kudos to Samuel Peter (37:34-27,3K.O) who has shown the spirit of a great warrior by accepting to battle the erudite and very skillful Wladmir Dr.Steel Hammer" Klitschko.(57:54-3;48KO’s). Recall that Alex Povetkin has deliberately avoided the Ukrainian pugilist even though he is the number one contender to the IBF title. In the same wave David"Haye Maker" Haye has also technically slowed down from fighting either of the Klitschko’s since defeating John "The quiet man" Ruiz.
Who is the only boxer that has fought the Klitschko’s, the answer is simple It’s Nigeria’s Samuel "The Nigerian Nightmare" Peter. You can’t run away from a battle that you expect to thrust you into the lime light you strongly desire. When he signed to fight Nagy Aguilera some thought it could prove to be a surprisingly difficult contest. Instead Peter weighed in his lightest, 237 and half pounds, he had not been that light since his seventh pro fight. He looked trim, toned and pretty fast. He finally let his hands go the way he used to and had Aguilera out of there in two rounds. This latest edition of Sam Peter may still be an unknown quantity until an accomplished and powerful heavyweight lands a punch on him, we won’t know how much punch resistance he has left after the Vitali Klitschko debacle. We also don’t know how he will deal with the pressure of another world title fight. Some pundits thinks he should have taken up more tune up fight before this one, yet you can’t rule out the powerful punch that the Nigerian carries. If can land any of those power punch on the Ukrainian that may be good night. Indeed nothing motivate Samuel Peter than being a heavyweight champion.
This version of Samuel Pater is much more like the one that knocked down "Dr.Steel Hammer" some year back. He was unknown, his strength was not on spot light and narrowly missed out on winning that bout based of lack of experience rather than the lack of courage. I also consider it difficult for non Europeans to get decision over German based boxers; I am at the brink of concluding that you have to kill a boxer to get a decision in Germany. This is why I asked if this should be christened Suicide Mission, maybe Samuel Peter has to do the unthinkable to come out tops.
A concise search light on both pugilists has shown that Wlad is a better fighter, and is favorite to win this one, he actually described the Nigerian as a Walking Corpse in one of the press conference. Yet "When two heavyweights with KO power meet you can never say either one can't win. There is always the puncher's chance but that is really the best chance Sam has. Wlad won the first fight and he is much better now. Sam may or may not be at his peak. If Wlad could beat Sam 5 years ago you have to think the new improved version should be able to do it again. There is no way that Sam can outbox Wlad but at least he is likely to be fit and give it a good try. Age will likely not be a factor. Sam is listed at 29 and Wlad at a peak 34. I think this fight will be much like the bout with Vitali only Sam will be more motivated. Wlad is better technically than Vitali and will probably control the fight with his jab much like his brother did until he lowers the boom somewhere around the eighth round. It should be good while it lasts".
Why Wlad is favourite to win from all stand point, there is a strong indication that this bout will not only be explosive it will expose to the world the weakness of the IBF heavyweight champion because Sam will be hard nut to crack.
I have listened with avid interest to radio and television sports programmes, read sports pages of newspapers and none has spoken of this fight as a potential winner for the Nigerian Nightmare. Five years ago nobody gave him a chance against the erudite and athletic Wlad "Dr. Steel Hammer" Klitschko.(57:54-3;48KO’s) but on that occasion he knocked him down three times.
Aside the patriotic surge in my vein, I have been prudent enough to know that Samuel "The Nigerian Nightmare"Peter (37:34-27,3K.O) can pull of a surprise (To those who don’t know the build up to this fight). Here is an improved Samuel Peter with what I think is a better team that has focus on the heavyweight title. Whether Samuel Losses this one or not you will agree with me that he has only lost to the best in the division and would remain a major factor in today’s heavyweight structure.
This is why I must say kudos to Samuel Peter (37:34-27,3K.O) who has shown the spirit of a great warrior by accepting to battle the erudite and very skillful Wladmir Dr.Steel Hammer" Klitschko.(57:54-3;48KO’s). Recall that Alex Povetkin has deliberately avoided the Ukrainian pugilist even though he is the number one contender to the IBF title. In the same wave David"Haye Maker" Haye has also technically slowed down from fighting either of the Klitschko’s since defeating John "The quiet man" Ruiz.
Who is the only boxer that has fought the Klitschko’s, the answer is simple It’s Nigeria’s Samuel "The Nigerian Nightmare" Peter. You can’t run away from a battle that you expect to thrust you into the lime light you strongly desire. When he signed to fight Nagy Aguilera some thought it could prove to be a surprisingly difficult contest. Instead Peter weighed in his lightest, 237 and half pounds, he had not been that light since his seventh pro fight. He looked trim, toned and pretty fast. He finally let his hands go the way he used to and had Aguilera out of there in two rounds. This latest edition of Sam Peter may still be an unknown quantity until an accomplished and powerful heavyweight lands a punch on him, we won’t know how much punch resistance he has left after the Vitali Klitschko debacle. We also don’t know how he will deal with the pressure of another world title fight. Some pundits thinks he should have taken up more tune up fight before this one, yet you can’t rule out the powerful punch that the Nigerian carries. If can land any of those power punch on the Ukrainian that may be good night. Indeed nothing motivate Samuel Peter than being a heavyweight champion.
This version of Samuel Pater is much more like the one that knocked down "Dr.Steel Hammer" some year back. He was unknown, his strength was not on spot light and narrowly missed out on winning that bout based of lack of experience rather than the lack of courage. I also consider it difficult for non Europeans to get decision over German based boxers; I am at the brink of concluding that you have to kill a boxer to get a decision in Germany. This is why I asked if this should be christened Suicide Mission, maybe Samuel Peter has to do the unthinkable to come out tops.
A concise search light on both pugilists has shown that Wlad is a better fighter, and is favorite to win this one, he actually described the Nigerian as a Walking Corpse in one of the press conference. Yet "When two heavyweights with KO power meet you can never say either one can't win. There is always the puncher's chance but that is really the best chance Sam has. Wlad won the first fight and he is much better now. Sam may or may not be at his peak. If Wlad could beat Sam 5 years ago you have to think the new improved version should be able to do it again. There is no way that Sam can outbox Wlad but at least he is likely to be fit and give it a good try. Age will likely not be a factor. Sam is listed at 29 and Wlad at a peak 34. I think this fight will be much like the bout with Vitali only Sam will be more motivated. Wlad is better technically than Vitali and will probably control the fight with his jab much like his brother did until he lowers the boom somewhere around the eighth round. It should be good while it lasts".
Why Wlad is favourite to win from all stand point, there is a strong indication that this bout will not only be explosive it will expose to the world the weakness of the IBF heavyweight champion because Sam will be hard nut to crack.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
David Remains King
Tonight at The M.E.N Arena in Manchester, WBA heavyweight champion David Haye successfully defended his belt for the first time, with a 9th-round TKO over an incredibly gutsy John Ruiz. The ending to the drama-filled fight came at 2-minutes and one-second of the 9th-round, as the challenger's trainer Miguel Diaz threw in the towel.29-year-old Haye is now 24-1(22). 38-year-old Ruiz, the former two-time WBA ruler, is now 44-9-1(30).Tonight's fight was a terrific action bout, and though Ruiz has given us his share of stinkers in the past, he deserves a huge amount of praise for the way he hung in there against the faster, harder-hitting Haye..The fireworks began in the very first round, as a sharp right hand from Haye went straight through the guard of Ruiz, dropping him with barely seconds gone. Looking badly hurt, Ruiz appeared to be on his way to an early, devastating loss. Haye followed up on the knockdown with more right hands, leaving Ruiz bent over the top rope. Excited, Haye was guilty of hitting Ruiz on the back of the head as he was bent over the ropes, and the referee, Guillermo Perez, docked the champion a point for the rabbit punches. Still, Ruiz was also given a second count, and the fight did seem to be all but over with.Amazingly, Ruiz fought back, even landing a late punch as the bell rang. A huge round for "The Hayemaker!"Ruiz was still pressing forward in the 2nd, and both men threw sharp left jabs. Another big right hand crashed into the Puerto Rican's head, but this time Ruiz took the shot well. Indeed, Ruiz showed both heart and an amazing chin tonight. It was another dominant round for the Londoner, but Ruiz did manage to clip his man with a left hand to the head.Haye scored with a left/right combo in the 3rd-round, and then with a right/left combination. Ruiz was still dangerous, as he showed with his own right hands, but Haye let loose with another big burst in the round. Once again, though, the older man's chin had the look of granite! Ruiz let loose with his own combination at the bell. Another round for the champion.Haye boxed well in the 4th-round, looking a little more patient than he had been before. Back-pedalling as the tank-like challenger advanced, Haye unloaded with fast shots. Ruiz had some success in this session, however, and the 4th was probably his best round of the whole fight.There was another big attack by Haye at the start of the 5th, as a right and a left slammed into Ruiz's head. His nose now badly bloodied, the 38-year-old former champ refused to stop chugging in. Then, seconds before the bell, another right hand put Ruiz down. The legal right hand was followed by another rabbit punch, and Ruiz again complained to the ref - but this time there was no deduction.The fight really had been a one-sided affair, and it was astonishing that the action was still ongoing as late as the 6th-round! Ruiz pressed in again, and Haye boxed and moved once more - until he scored with yet another big right hand, putting the challenger down again. Once more Ruiz complained of rabbit punching by Haye, and he was also looking busted up now. But he came firing back at the champion soon after his latest trip to the floor; prompting Haye to blast way, looking for the spectacular finish. There was also a brief time-out so the ref could replace Haye's mouth-piece, which had come loose during the hectic action. Another right hand scored for Haye, as did a big burst at the end of the exciting round.The 7th was a quieter round, with Haye content to jab and move as Ruiz advanced. Swollen under his left eye, Ruiz was nevertheless still game.A right uppercut scored for Haye in the 8th, and Ruiz was under fire again. A left hook and another right landed by "The Hayemaker," yet Ruiz was still showing the ability to take everything that was coming his way. A monstrous right hand crashed into the visiting warrior's head, yet still Ruiz came forward.The end came quite suddenly in the 9th-round. The session started off slowly, but then Haye exploded with a right and a left upstairs, finally convincing Diaz to rescue his fighter. There were no complaints from anyone; least of all the sell-out crowd. Having been treated to a great - if one-sided - action fight, no-one in the audience felt the need to boo!In short, Haye looked superb tonight. There was nothing wrong with his stamina, his speed or his brutal power. In becoming only the second man to have halted Ruiz, Haye made quite a statement. It will be most interesting to see who the exciting, charismatic Londoner fights next.As for Ruiz, he gave us arguably the most thrilling fight of his entire career in losing. Though the veteran will be unhappy at going home with a defeat, he can at least take some consolation in knowing how he gave the fans their money's worth.
This Article was written by James Slater
This Article was written by James Slater
Thursday, March 11, 2010
NIGERIA NIGHTMARE FACES THE NAGY TEST
March 12th 2010 will be an important date for boxing and boxing fans across the globe. The boxing fraternity will have the opportunity of knowing whether Nigeria’s Samuel Okon Peter (36-3,26KO’s) will bounce back for contention to win the world heavyweight title a second time. It will also be a formidable platform for Nagy Aguilera (15-2,10KO’s) to be taken seriously in today’s heavyweight class should he win. Recall that Aguilera defeated former WBC heavyweight champion Oleg Maskaev in round one to retire the former title holder. He is up against Samuel Peter who himself is a former title holder. The tendency is that the Dominican will be confident because he easily dismissed the BIG O.
Nagy is actually a fine boxer possessing the required attribute for today’s heavyweight boxing. He is all fired up for this one night and truly believes that he can win later today. He has said his technique will be to win by a decision, which means he plans to take the fight gradually by scoring points, he believes even at 240 pounds Samuel Peter will still be slow to move around and perhaps catch him with one of those big shots.
As a keen watcher of the sport, I still think the Nigeria’s best performance was against James Toney 2, he came in shape and really proved he could box. After losing to Vitali Klitschko amidst the psychological break down he suffered before that title fight, I think he did not get over those issues before jumping into the fixture with “Fast” Eddie Chambers.
All that is past now, he has joined forces with Top Ranks and has fought three times with journey men (Marcus McGhee, Ronald Bellamy and Gabe Brown) to enable him build his confidence and properly assess himself. A boxer in the class The Nigerian Nightmare should be fit for this fight or put differently he should by virtue of his experience know what it takes to prepare for an illusory bout like this one. He should not in anyway underestimate his opponent tonight and should also know that beyond this fight lies a possible big paydays and a heavyweight title shot and above all would put himself on history path. Furthermore, his teeming fans in his home town of Akwa Ibom State, Nigerians at large and across the globe are hoping that he get pass his younger opponent. He was at one point the opium of boxing in Nigeria, that feet can be regained by winning this one, especially in a spectacular fashion.
Meanwhile on paper Peter should win this one but anyone who saw his last three fights will still has severe reservations. “It may be that Peter was looking to get rounds in the bank, or it may be that he has lost his fire” Stated Bill Patrice Jones. I think contrary, I think the former Olympian used those bouts to knock himself into shape for some thing serious, billed as an IBF eliminator the Akwa Ibom born pugilist should leave no stone unturned and ensure he clinches this one.
Peter’s focus on weight loss is encouraging but should be matched with accurate technique (Good body and head movement. Avoid being stationary during fights) His ability to be on his toe against James “Lights out” Toney in their ten round encounter was priceless, the same condition (if he can attain that) would also prove to be priceless tonight. He definitely must be at his best to defeat the hungrier Aguilera. The Nigerian Nightmare must get pass the Nagy tes
Nagy is actually a fine boxer possessing the required attribute for today’s heavyweight boxing. He is all fired up for this one night and truly believes that he can win later today. He has said his technique will be to win by a decision, which means he plans to take the fight gradually by scoring points, he believes even at 240 pounds Samuel Peter will still be slow to move around and perhaps catch him with one of those big shots.
As a keen watcher of the sport, I still think the Nigeria’s best performance was against James Toney 2, he came in shape and really proved he could box. After losing to Vitali Klitschko amidst the psychological break down he suffered before that title fight, I think he did not get over those issues before jumping into the fixture with “Fast” Eddie Chambers.
All that is past now, he has joined forces with Top Ranks and has fought three times with journey men (Marcus McGhee, Ronald Bellamy and Gabe Brown) to enable him build his confidence and properly assess himself. A boxer in the class The Nigerian Nightmare should be fit for this fight or put differently he should by virtue of his experience know what it takes to prepare for an illusory bout like this one. He should not in anyway underestimate his opponent tonight and should also know that beyond this fight lies a possible big paydays and a heavyweight title shot and above all would put himself on history path. Furthermore, his teeming fans in his home town of Akwa Ibom State, Nigerians at large and across the globe are hoping that he get pass his younger opponent. He was at one point the opium of boxing in Nigeria, that feet can be regained by winning this one, especially in a spectacular fashion.
Meanwhile on paper Peter should win this one but anyone who saw his last three fights will still has severe reservations. “It may be that Peter was looking to get rounds in the bank, or it may be that he has lost his fire” Stated Bill Patrice Jones. I think contrary, I think the former Olympian used those bouts to knock himself into shape for some thing serious, billed as an IBF eliminator the Akwa Ibom born pugilist should leave no stone unturned and ensure he clinches this one.
Peter’s focus on weight loss is encouraging but should be matched with accurate technique (Good body and head movement. Avoid being stationary during fights) His ability to be on his toe against James “Lights out” Toney in their ten round encounter was priceless, the same condition (if he can attain that) would also prove to be priceless tonight. He definitely must be at his best to defeat the hungrier Aguilera. The Nigerian Nightmare must get pass the Nagy tes
Thursday, February 18, 2010
SET UP OR STAND UP FOR SAMUEL PETER
It is common knowledge that Nigeria’s Samuel Peter (36-3,26KO’s) will square up against Nagy Aguilera (15-2,10KO’s). According to the usually accurate BoxRec.com, former WBC heavyweight champion Samuel Peter will face young heavyweight Nagy Aguilera in an IBF elimination bout in Dallas on March 12th 2010, the night before the big Manny Pacquiao-Joshua Clottey welterweight title clash. According to the invaluable web site, the heavyweight match-up will take place on the same card as the Rodel Mayol-Manuel Vargas WBC light-flyweight title fight.
That the former WBC heavyweight Champion will be stepping into the ring is actually a welcome development but doing so against the young Dominican/American who just finished off Oleg “Big O” Maskaev seem a bit complicating to me. Nagy Aguilera has a solid amateur background, a hard puncher and is very young. “Yeah, I'm real excited about it. I know I can beat him and I'm training hard to make sure I do that”. Such is the confidence of the young heavyweight who’s actually basking in the euphoria of his win over the aged Maskaev.
The Nigerian pugilist made a major mistake after his lose to Vitali “Dr. Iron Fist” Klitschko by taking on “Fast” Eddie Chambers, at that time Eddie Chambers was looking for a solid opponent to gain a title shot. That he has gotten now and would be facing Wladmir Klitschko on March 20th 2010 in Düsseldorf Germany. This is not ignoring the fact that Alex Povetkin is at this moment supposed to be the number one contender to the IBF title. The Nigerian Nightmare would have taken up tune up fights before facing Chambers and would have also used it as a platform for a title shot. That is all history now because He eventually lost, but most importantly the Samuel Peter Camp did not play the right politics.
Having moved to Top Ranks and got some tune ups, facing the young Nagy Aguilera will still be an uphill task but much more than that, it’s to be an IBF eliminator. The question now: is it that the winner of this bout will face the winner of Klitschko-Chambers or will the winner of Samuel Peter-Nagy Aguilera first face Alex Povetkin before a title shot is granted. While these twists still exist, on paper Samuel Peter should win this one. But sincerely that will depend on the weight of Samuel Peter. If our own Samuel “The Nigerian Nightmare” Peter gets professional, listens to his trainer and come up with a game plan, he should be able to dismiss his opponent by the 6th round.
A critical look at this fixture shows its capable of casting a set back on the Nigerian’s quest to regain his title or better still become a two time world heavyweight champion should he lose this one. A win for Aguilera, will shoot him into spot light and will stand a chance of making big money in heavyweight boxing. With a big crowd expected in Dallas on the Friday night before the best pound-for-pound fighter on the planet fights again, there should be plenty of fight hungry fans in attendance for the heavyweight rumble who are eager to find out who the pretender. Frankly it’s an important fixture for heavyweight boxing.It’s important to note that Nagy Aguilera has a game plan for this fight “Yeah, I'm training for a unanimous decision win. Like I say, if a KO comes, it comes. I won't be rushing in for a KO. I know he's an experienced guy and he knows how to survive. I want to beat him decisively, to make sure everyone knows my name. I know Peter weighs around 240 for a fight, but it doesn't matter what he weighs, he'll still be a mummy, he'll still be slow”. With this mentality from the young pugilist, I think this is more of a set up than a sent forth yet as a patriotic Nigerian; I want Samuel Peter to win and win well.
That the former WBC heavyweight Champion will be stepping into the ring is actually a welcome development but doing so against the young Dominican/American who just finished off Oleg “Big O” Maskaev seem a bit complicating to me. Nagy Aguilera has a solid amateur background, a hard puncher and is very young. “Yeah, I'm real excited about it. I know I can beat him and I'm training hard to make sure I do that”. Such is the confidence of the young heavyweight who’s actually basking in the euphoria of his win over the aged Maskaev.
The Nigerian pugilist made a major mistake after his lose to Vitali “Dr. Iron Fist” Klitschko by taking on “Fast” Eddie Chambers, at that time Eddie Chambers was looking for a solid opponent to gain a title shot. That he has gotten now and would be facing Wladmir Klitschko on March 20th 2010 in Düsseldorf Germany. This is not ignoring the fact that Alex Povetkin is at this moment supposed to be the number one contender to the IBF title. The Nigerian Nightmare would have taken up tune up fights before facing Chambers and would have also used it as a platform for a title shot. That is all history now because He eventually lost, but most importantly the Samuel Peter Camp did not play the right politics.
Having moved to Top Ranks and got some tune ups, facing the young Nagy Aguilera will still be an uphill task but much more than that, it’s to be an IBF eliminator. The question now: is it that the winner of this bout will face the winner of Klitschko-Chambers or will the winner of Samuel Peter-Nagy Aguilera first face Alex Povetkin before a title shot is granted. While these twists still exist, on paper Samuel Peter should win this one. But sincerely that will depend on the weight of Samuel Peter. If our own Samuel “The Nigerian Nightmare” Peter gets professional, listens to his trainer and come up with a game plan, he should be able to dismiss his opponent by the 6th round.
A critical look at this fixture shows its capable of casting a set back on the Nigerian’s quest to regain his title or better still become a two time world heavyweight champion should he lose this one. A win for Aguilera, will shoot him into spot light and will stand a chance of making big money in heavyweight boxing. With a big crowd expected in Dallas on the Friday night before the best pound-for-pound fighter on the planet fights again, there should be plenty of fight hungry fans in attendance for the heavyweight rumble who are eager to find out who the pretender. Frankly it’s an important fixture for heavyweight boxing.It’s important to note that Nagy Aguilera has a game plan for this fight “Yeah, I'm training for a unanimous decision win. Like I say, if a KO comes, it comes. I won't be rushing in for a KO. I know he's an experienced guy and he knows how to survive. I want to beat him decisively, to make sure everyone knows my name. I know Peter weighs around 240 for a fight, but it doesn't matter what he weighs, he'll still be a mummy, he'll still be slow”. With this mentality from the young pugilist, I think this is more of a set up than a sent forth yet as a patriotic Nigerian; I want Samuel Peter to win and win well.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
RING WARRIOR
As I was about posting my piece on the David Haye-Wladimir Klitschko battle, I decided to surf the net for finishing touches on what I consider my best shot on this platform, only to be takenaback by the cancellation of the fight. That fight would have been the biggest boxing fixtures in recent times, in terms of attention and attendance. Sixty thousand capacity crowd was going to be in attendance.
All the same my hope was rekindled when I learnt that despite of the Haye Maker’s withdrawal Wladmiri “Dr Steel Hammer” Klitschko was going to do battle with a fresh opponent. For taking this decision I deem it fit to refer to the Ukrainian pugilist as THE RING WARRIOR.
Having said that and as we all know, Klitschko’s opponent come June 20th will be Ruslan Chageav. Boxing pundits believe that Chagaev (24-0-1, 17 Kos) is a more deserving opponent when compared with the Briton. Yet here is a man who is the worst culprit in terms of pulling out of scheduled fight. In fact he just pulled out of a battle that would have produced the authentic WBA king. In other words he was billed to battle Nikolay Valuev in Helsinki, Finland only for us to hear he had pulled out because of complication found in his blood arising from the test carried out on him.
Recall also he pulled out of the a scheduled unification bout with Sultan Ibragimove last year citing a stomach ailment, only to return later to face Briton’s Matt Skelton a boxer who to me is not fitting for the heavyweight class. The same man is stepping out to fight the younger and most active of the Klitschko brothers. This is hoping that Chagaev won’t pullout at the dying moment.
However, taking a critical look at this fixture seems to me like a tricky one. Ruslan “The White Tyson” Chageav is the only boxer to have beaten Nikolay Valuev, the reigning WAB king; this is a proof that, the Russian knows how to handle big opponents. He is also very much aware that this is a life time opportunity. Deeper looks also suggest to me that, he would not need to drastically change his training program. So for me he is better prepared than the IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight champion, who of course is out to satisfy his German fans.
Ruslan Chagaev represents Wladamir’s toughest test since Samuel Peter. He’s not a big heavyweight and to call him a “white Mike Tyson” may be a bit of an overstatement. But he is a solid opponent for the younger Klitschko. This fixture will actually show case the strength of Chagaev and we die hard boxing fans want to actually see if for the first time Wladimir would be really tested.
None the less, Dr. Steel Hammer is the favourite to win. Yet pundits believe that the level of success he has gained is because of partly the shape of the heavyweight at the moment and his size. He is no doubt the more vulnerable of the two brothers but Wlad as he fondly referred to has remained undefeated since the fight with Lemon Brewster and has put himself at the top of the heavyweight division, along with his brother Vitali who in my judgment received a gift from Samuel Peter.While some accept Wladamir (52-3, 45 KO) as a legitimate heavyweight champion, others aren’t convinced. His doubters still remember his devastating losses to Corre Sanders and Brewster and even to Ross Purity, a fight that he lost via 11th round TKO very early in his career because he ran out of gas. And the fact that he was decked by our own Samuel “The Nigerian Nightmare” Peter raises some doubt, considering Peter’s recent performances suggest that he isn’t all that he was hyped up to be. Wladamir’s opponents over the last few years haven’t posed a significant threat to him and his unwillingness to step it up against Sultan Ibragimov suggests that he may be a bit gun shy.
Those who don’t have faith (including me) in Wladamir believe that he has found his success because of his size and athleticism, but if he ever faced a legitimate opponent he would be exposed once again. This fixture and the urgency to satisfy his fans may just be Wladimir Klitschko’s greatest undoing.
The heavyweight division has suffered a great deal in recent years harboring mediocre who only love to keep the title rather than fight. Until the Klitschko brothers came on and took control, it had been without a dominant champion since the exit of Lennox Lewis. The division has been so desperate for action that it seems whenever an up-and-comer shows some promise such as a David Haye, Chris Arreola and even our own Samuel Peter, the popular opinion is to put them in a major fight before they even have a chance to develop or prove themselves. If any kind of order is to be restored among the heavyweights, the division needs meaningful fights where the contenders earn their title shot and get the experience they need to compete at an elite level. This upcoming fight with Klitschko/Chagaev is a good start and hopefully more match-ups like this will follow. Hopefully this fight would produce the excitement we crave for and in all honesty only deserving boxers should challenge for the titles.
All the same my hope was rekindled when I learnt that despite of the Haye Maker’s withdrawal Wladmiri “Dr Steel Hammer” Klitschko was going to do battle with a fresh opponent. For taking this decision I deem it fit to refer to the Ukrainian pugilist as THE RING WARRIOR.
Having said that and as we all know, Klitschko’s opponent come June 20th will be Ruslan Chageav. Boxing pundits believe that Chagaev (24-0-1, 17 Kos) is a more deserving opponent when compared with the Briton. Yet here is a man who is the worst culprit in terms of pulling out of scheduled fight. In fact he just pulled out of a battle that would have produced the authentic WBA king. In other words he was billed to battle Nikolay Valuev in Helsinki, Finland only for us to hear he had pulled out because of complication found in his blood arising from the test carried out on him.
Recall also he pulled out of the a scheduled unification bout with Sultan Ibragimove last year citing a stomach ailment, only to return later to face Briton’s Matt Skelton a boxer who to me is not fitting for the heavyweight class. The same man is stepping out to fight the younger and most active of the Klitschko brothers. This is hoping that Chagaev won’t pullout at the dying moment.
However, taking a critical look at this fixture seems to me like a tricky one. Ruslan “The White Tyson” Chageav is the only boxer to have beaten Nikolay Valuev, the reigning WAB king; this is a proof that, the Russian knows how to handle big opponents. He is also very much aware that this is a life time opportunity. Deeper looks also suggest to me that, he would not need to drastically change his training program. So for me he is better prepared than the IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight champion, who of course is out to satisfy his German fans.
Ruslan Chagaev represents Wladamir’s toughest test since Samuel Peter. He’s not a big heavyweight and to call him a “white Mike Tyson” may be a bit of an overstatement. But he is a solid opponent for the younger Klitschko. This fixture will actually show case the strength of Chagaev and we die hard boxing fans want to actually see if for the first time Wladimir would be really tested.
None the less, Dr. Steel Hammer is the favourite to win. Yet pundits believe that the level of success he has gained is because of partly the shape of the heavyweight at the moment and his size. He is no doubt the more vulnerable of the two brothers but Wlad as he fondly referred to has remained undefeated since the fight with Lemon Brewster and has put himself at the top of the heavyweight division, along with his brother Vitali who in my judgment received a gift from Samuel Peter.While some accept Wladamir (52-3, 45 KO) as a legitimate heavyweight champion, others aren’t convinced. His doubters still remember his devastating losses to Corre Sanders and Brewster and even to Ross Purity, a fight that he lost via 11th round TKO very early in his career because he ran out of gas. And the fact that he was decked by our own Samuel “The Nigerian Nightmare” Peter raises some doubt, considering Peter’s recent performances suggest that he isn’t all that he was hyped up to be. Wladamir’s opponents over the last few years haven’t posed a significant threat to him and his unwillingness to step it up against Sultan Ibragimov suggests that he may be a bit gun shy.
Those who don’t have faith (including me) in Wladamir believe that he has found his success because of his size and athleticism, but if he ever faced a legitimate opponent he would be exposed once again. This fixture and the urgency to satisfy his fans may just be Wladimir Klitschko’s greatest undoing.
The heavyweight division has suffered a great deal in recent years harboring mediocre who only love to keep the title rather than fight. Until the Klitschko brothers came on and took control, it had been without a dominant champion since the exit of Lennox Lewis. The division has been so desperate for action that it seems whenever an up-and-comer shows some promise such as a David Haye, Chris Arreola and even our own Samuel Peter, the popular opinion is to put them in a major fight before they even have a chance to develop or prove themselves. If any kind of order is to be restored among the heavyweights, the division needs meaningful fights where the contenders earn their title shot and get the experience they need to compete at an elite level. This upcoming fight with Klitschko/Chagaev is a good start and hopefully more match-ups like this will follow. Hopefully this fight would produce the excitement we crave for and in all honesty only deserving boxers should challenge for the titles.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Vitali Remains Champ
Hello fight fans. I know by now every boxing follower would have seen Vitali Klitschko defended his title against Juan Carlos Gomez. It was good for the WBC king, and we at boxing extra congratulate him. I hope he would fight Oleg Maskaev, who incidentally is mandatory for the Ukrainian. Untill that time comes, we say congratulations to Dr. Iron Fist.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Coming Soooooon
Hello fight fans, hope you are already enjoying the various fights that has already taken place. I shall be doing a special count down on the klitschko-Gomez bout and that of Samuel Peter - Eddie Chambers. A new aspect has been introduced for your reading pleasure: we shall be paying special tribute to boxers who win fights this year. Watch out also for the sms based boxing information that is coming up.This will update you on upcoming events as they unfold and results of fights as they roll in. Thanks for your loyalty.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Fixtures of Revival
Apparently in a bid to keep the heavyweight class as interesting as the lower divisions, some bouts have been lined up for the month of December. Before I move on, I want to use medium to inform boxing fans here in Nigeria that the man who finally destroyed what was left in Mike Tyson (Danny Williams) lost his tune up fight to big underdog Albert Sosnowski from Poland.
Sosnowski sent Danny crashing with some thunderous headshots in the 8th round, and though Williams bravely beat the count he was soon under more fire and referee Richie Davies had no other option than to dive in and stop the contest. The official time was one minute and seventeen seconds of the 8th round, and Williams fell to 40-7(31). The jubilant Sosnowski, six years younger in age 29, improved his record to 44-2(27). Williams’s November 30th date with Francois Botha is now doubtful, I really wonder if he can get ready and in shape for that bout.
I also wish David "Hayemaker" Haye all the best. Congratulation to him, he showed great will and tenacity in knocking out Monte Barrett. The latter was stunned by Haye's tactics and kissed the canvass five times before finally given up.
Meanwhile, I find some these fixtures interesting; a clear sign of boxers trying to gain relevance hence today’s writing is christened “Fixtures of Revival”. The first pairing I want to look at is the fight between James Toney and Tony Thompson.
James Toney (70-6, 43 KOs) will be facing 6'5? Tony Thompson on December 13 for one of the lesser heavyweight title belts at stake. Thompson, 36, is coming off a disappointing performance against IBF/WBO heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko, who knocked him out in the 11th round on July 12th in Germany. Thompson fought poorly and was never able to get his high volume offense untracked against the giant 6'6? Klitschko.
This fight for me is Toney’s way of seeking relevance in the heavyweight class. Pundits believe that Thompson has the edge considering his size and the fact that he is a southpaw. At 40, Toney is probably at the very tail end of his career and it would seem unlikely that he can continue to perform well against the top fighters in the division. I foresee an interesting fixture, at least the Americans have something to cheer for and perhaps Thompson will be the new hope for America’s declining boxing state.
Klitschko-Rahman: How much of fame can one make out of a fight that’s long past. Hasim Rahman (54-7, 2D 36KO’s) has a chance to fight for the world heavyweight title. I have problem with boxing politics. The question is on what criterion was the Rock chosen? Was it for convenience or was it cause of recent form? For Rahman to be considered as a top replacement for Klitschko gives me lots of hope for our own Samuel Peter. No matter what anyone may say about the Nigerian pugilist, he still has a huge chance to dance and possibly wear that title once again. I get exasperated when I hear comment like "Hasim Rahman: is a tough and experienced fighter," says Klitschko. "I will definitely not underestimate him anyway. He is always talking big – I know that back from a fight when he was supposed to meet my brother Vitali. But that does not impress me remarks Klitschko. I am really looking forward to returning to the SAP Arena. There, I became world champion for the second time. The fans in the Mannheim region are just great and I am sure the atmosphere in the arena will be terrific”. Am not taking anything away from Wladmir Klitschko, The 32-year-old is in his 15th world championship fight when he steps into the ring in Mannheim.
The 1996 Olympic gold medalist, Klitschko was WBO champion from 2000 to 2003, and won the IBF and IBO belts in Mannheim in April 2006. In February 2008, he regained the WBO title at Madison Square Garden. His record is 51 wins, with 45 victories coming by KO, and only 3 losses. I see this fixture as an erratic one. Anything can happen, this is the heavyweight class, and one hard punch can change the whole picture. If a Rahman wins it could just be a huge fixture of revival.
Valuev-Holyfield: The question is how far can legendary, Evander “Real deal” Holyfield go. Now I can’t really figure why, he is still fighting. Is it cause of his debts or cause he is chasing the record of being the oldest heavyweight champion. Whatever it is, the fact is that come December 20th. The 46 year old Holyfield 42-9-2(27) will square up against the biggest and heaviest boxer in history, Nikolay Valuev (51-49-1,34KO’s and 1 no contest) The WBA king should have no problems handling the former four times heavyweight champion. Recently, Valuev showed how much he has improved by making good use of his reach and size. I expect to see a dull fight and most probably a one sided affair. A closer look at these fixtures shows an urge to revive ailing careers.
Sosnowski sent Danny crashing with some thunderous headshots in the 8th round, and though Williams bravely beat the count he was soon under more fire and referee Richie Davies had no other option than to dive in and stop the contest. The official time was one minute and seventeen seconds of the 8th round, and Williams fell to 40-7(31). The jubilant Sosnowski, six years younger in age 29, improved his record to 44-2(27). Williams’s November 30th date with Francois Botha is now doubtful, I really wonder if he can get ready and in shape for that bout.
I also wish David "Hayemaker" Haye all the best. Congratulation to him, he showed great will and tenacity in knocking out Monte Barrett. The latter was stunned by Haye's tactics and kissed the canvass five times before finally given up.
Meanwhile, I find some these fixtures interesting; a clear sign of boxers trying to gain relevance hence today’s writing is christened “Fixtures of Revival”. The first pairing I want to look at is the fight between James Toney and Tony Thompson.
James Toney (70-6, 43 KOs) will be facing 6'5? Tony Thompson on December 13 for one of the lesser heavyweight title belts at stake. Thompson, 36, is coming off a disappointing performance against IBF/WBO heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko, who knocked him out in the 11th round on July 12th in Germany. Thompson fought poorly and was never able to get his high volume offense untracked against the giant 6'6? Klitschko.
This fight for me is Toney’s way of seeking relevance in the heavyweight class. Pundits believe that Thompson has the edge considering his size and the fact that he is a southpaw. At 40, Toney is probably at the very tail end of his career and it would seem unlikely that he can continue to perform well against the top fighters in the division. I foresee an interesting fixture, at least the Americans have something to cheer for and perhaps Thompson will be the new hope for America’s declining boxing state.
Klitschko-Rahman: How much of fame can one make out of a fight that’s long past. Hasim Rahman (54-7, 2D 36KO’s) has a chance to fight for the world heavyweight title. I have problem with boxing politics. The question is on what criterion was the Rock chosen? Was it for convenience or was it cause of recent form? For Rahman to be considered as a top replacement for Klitschko gives me lots of hope for our own Samuel Peter. No matter what anyone may say about the Nigerian pugilist, he still has a huge chance to dance and possibly wear that title once again. I get exasperated when I hear comment like "Hasim Rahman: is a tough and experienced fighter," says Klitschko. "I will definitely not underestimate him anyway. He is always talking big – I know that back from a fight when he was supposed to meet my brother Vitali. But that does not impress me remarks Klitschko. I am really looking forward to returning to the SAP Arena. There, I became world champion for the second time. The fans in the Mannheim region are just great and I am sure the atmosphere in the arena will be terrific”. Am not taking anything away from Wladmir Klitschko, The 32-year-old is in his 15th world championship fight when he steps into the ring in Mannheim.
The 1996 Olympic gold medalist, Klitschko was WBO champion from 2000 to 2003, and won the IBF and IBO belts in Mannheim in April 2006. In February 2008, he regained the WBO title at Madison Square Garden. His record is 51 wins, with 45 victories coming by KO, and only 3 losses. I see this fixture as an erratic one. Anything can happen, this is the heavyweight class, and one hard punch can change the whole picture. If a Rahman wins it could just be a huge fixture of revival.
Valuev-Holyfield: The question is how far can legendary, Evander “Real deal” Holyfield go. Now I can’t really figure why, he is still fighting. Is it cause of his debts or cause he is chasing the record of being the oldest heavyweight champion. Whatever it is, the fact is that come December 20th. The 46 year old Holyfield 42-9-2(27) will square up against the biggest and heaviest boxer in history, Nikolay Valuev (51-49-1,34KO’s and 1 no contest) The WBA king should have no problems handling the former four times heavyweight champion. Recently, Valuev showed how much he has improved by making good use of his reach and size. I expect to see a dull fight and most probably a one sided affair. A closer look at these fixtures shows an urge to revive ailing careers.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Samuel Peter lost before he entered the ring
12.10.08 - by Armstrong Okobia - On the 11th October 2008, the boxing world witnessed history in the making when Vitali Klitschko captured the WBC crown via a TKO in the 8th round. But had Vitali already won before the gloves were laced? Certain things seem to have been in his favour and hammered the forgone conclusion of many boxing experts..
The location
I hope that Samuel Peter got paid well for deciding to defend his title in Klitschko country. What were his mangers thinking, if they were thinking at all. Itʼs a known fact that its virtually impossible to come out of Germany with a decision and the odds of Samuel knocking Vitali out were as big as a Vitali Lennox rematch. Virtually zero. This was the first in a chain of events that made it a losing effort for Samuel right from the get go. When Samuel was introduced there was practically no cheering at all. That has to do something to your mind.
The PR machine
The Klitschko PR maching was in full effect. The last couple of days prior to the fight, saw more and more of indirect intimidation to make Samuel feel as less welcome as possible. In one particular photo shoot they incited that Vitali should take pictures with the WBC belt. A challenger taking pictures with the championʼs belt? Not heard off, till last week.
Ring Introduction
The ring introduction was the final nail in the coffin. They used computer simulated images of past champions (Frazier, Holyfield, Lewis and Tyson) who each wished Vitali success and said that they knew he could do it. Even his nemisis Lennox Lewis had inspiring things to say, with Iron Mike closing out to say that he was always a fan of Dr. Iron Fist. Strange and practically unprecedented such an entrance. Im sure that it must have gone a long way in boosting Samuelsʼ moral (not) when past champions are wishing the challenger luck. I even spotted Riddick Bowe in the crowd waving a Ukranian flag.
In the Air
The fact that Vitali was being touted as the new champion was in the air so thick that there should have been a humidity warning. I pondered within myself what effect this would have on the judges. How would they score a close round, as this would usually go to the champion. Somehow I didnʼt see the judges doing that. Vitali however solved that issue for us.
Conclusion
Now donʼt get me wrong, I also favoured Vitali for this fight and felt that if anything, the person who would depict the outcome would be Vitali. If the long lay off had taken its toll in the form of lost technique and general ring rust, then Samuel Peter could squeak out a decision. But a B grade Vitali beats an A+ Samuel Peter any day. He is just that good and without a doubt the better of the Klitschko brothers. What I am saying is that based on the above, Samuel Peter had no chance. He was a defeated fighter even before he entered the ring and he fought the same way during the fight. For those who saw the fight, saw a fighter who had no spirit to fight and got pounded into this realisation. Samuel quit not because he was hurt. He quit because he realised with all the odds against him he couldnʼt win.
Future
To the point, there is none at this moment. Vitali will hold on to the belt like a child cuddling his teddy bear before going to bed and his parents at the WBC find it such a cute sight that they are not willing to break this intimate union. This is heartbreaking for true boxing fans. What makes it worst, is that the HW division was already in shambles. I would love to see him fight a David Haye, simply because it would be good for the division and boxing. Heck, I would like to see him fight, period. For those labelling Vitaliʼs showing as superb better look again. I saw many flaws in his technique. This was not the same guy who made Lennox dig deep to win. I saw a Vitali whose timing was off and for a large part of fight was off balance when going back. Whenever Samuel jabbed him to the chest, which is what he should have been doing to set his timing and balance off, you saw him jostle to find his footing. Now there will be those who say its rings rust, could be, but I donʼt buy it. The question is, was Vitali that good or was Samuel that bad? I think it was the latter.
The location
I hope that Samuel Peter got paid well for deciding to defend his title in Klitschko country. What were his mangers thinking, if they were thinking at all. Itʼs a known fact that its virtually impossible to come out of Germany with a decision and the odds of Samuel knocking Vitali out were as big as a Vitali Lennox rematch. Virtually zero. This was the first in a chain of events that made it a losing effort for Samuel right from the get go. When Samuel was introduced there was practically no cheering at all. That has to do something to your mind.
The PR machine
The Klitschko PR maching was in full effect. The last couple of days prior to the fight, saw more and more of indirect intimidation to make Samuel feel as less welcome as possible. In one particular photo shoot they incited that Vitali should take pictures with the WBC belt. A challenger taking pictures with the championʼs belt? Not heard off, till last week.
Ring Introduction
The ring introduction was the final nail in the coffin. They used computer simulated images of past champions (Frazier, Holyfield, Lewis and Tyson) who each wished Vitali success and said that they knew he could do it. Even his nemisis Lennox Lewis had inspiring things to say, with Iron Mike closing out to say that he was always a fan of Dr. Iron Fist. Strange and practically unprecedented such an entrance. Im sure that it must have gone a long way in boosting Samuelsʼ moral (not) when past champions are wishing the challenger luck. I even spotted Riddick Bowe in the crowd waving a Ukranian flag.
In the Air
The fact that Vitali was being touted as the new champion was in the air so thick that there should have been a humidity warning. I pondered within myself what effect this would have on the judges. How would they score a close round, as this would usually go to the champion. Somehow I didnʼt see the judges doing that. Vitali however solved that issue for us.
Conclusion
Now donʼt get me wrong, I also favoured Vitali for this fight and felt that if anything, the person who would depict the outcome would be Vitali. If the long lay off had taken its toll in the form of lost technique and general ring rust, then Samuel Peter could squeak out a decision. But a B grade Vitali beats an A+ Samuel Peter any day. He is just that good and without a doubt the better of the Klitschko brothers. What I am saying is that based on the above, Samuel Peter had no chance. He was a defeated fighter even before he entered the ring and he fought the same way during the fight. For those who saw the fight, saw a fighter who had no spirit to fight and got pounded into this realisation. Samuel quit not because he was hurt. He quit because he realised with all the odds against him he couldnʼt win.
Future
To the point, there is none at this moment. Vitali will hold on to the belt like a child cuddling his teddy bear before going to bed and his parents at the WBC find it such a cute sight that they are not willing to break this intimate union. This is heartbreaking for true boxing fans. What makes it worst, is that the HW division was already in shambles. I would love to see him fight a David Haye, simply because it would be good for the division and boxing. Heck, I would like to see him fight, period. For those labelling Vitaliʼs showing as superb better look again. I saw many flaws in his technique. This was not the same guy who made Lennox dig deep to win. I saw a Vitali whose timing was off and for a large part of fight was off balance when going back. Whenever Samuel jabbed him to the chest, which is what he should have been doing to set his timing and balance off, you saw him jostle to find his footing. Now there will be those who say its rings rust, could be, but I donʼt buy it. The question is, was Vitali that good or was Samuel that bad? I think it was the latter.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
SLOTHFUL SAMUEL
The book of Romans 12:11, reads “don’t be slothful in business, fervent in spirit serving the Lord… On this note I want to congratulate all Nigerians who kept faith with the Nigerian pugilist. I sincerely appreciate all those who called me to know the outcome of the fight and spent time analyzing the fight on phone. I thank a caller who called me all the way from United States of America in his words “Samuel lives to fight another day”.
By now the loss of Nigeria’s Samuel Okon Peter (31-2,23KO) is known to all, I don’t also wish to reopen that lose, I don’t also wish to start analyzing what went wrong and how he would have done what. Rather I want to use this medium to encourage the Nigerian boxer to still hold on. He is still the hardest puncher the heavyweight class can boost of at the moment, the Klitschko’s has not brought us the razzmatazz that boxing fans crave for.
Meanwhile, Vitali Klitschko (38-2, 35KO’s) put up a brilliant performance. It was a clear evidence of brilliance against raw power. The Nigerian corner did no better. It was as if they never studied the strategy of Vitali before and during the training periods. The Nigerian lost not because his opponent was much better, it was simply because he did not fight.
However, as painful as the lose is to me and perhaps most Nigerians, I still think the Nigerian Nightmare has got a lot to offer, he should not quit but take his time and learn the trade well. He should now focus on those gray areas of his fighting style and get some tune up fights to stay in shape. The heavyweight class still lacks boxers with greatness in them, the Klitschko’s are formidable no doubt, but they rely more on fundamental boxing skill to thrive. Any boxer with the heart of a champion will mess any (current) heavyweight boxer up. Little wonder Don King is appealing to Klitschko to lure Lennox Lewis out of retirement. “The promoter Don King, who was in Berlin, suggested Klitschko should make an attempt to lure Lennox Lewis back into the ring for a rematch of their bloody 2003 battle, the last of Lewis's career, when Klitschko appeared to be winning the contest before being stopped after six rounds because of horrendous facial cuts. "What a triumph that fight would be for us old guys," said the 77-year-old King. Until that comes to life, I perceive a bored heavyweight class where fighting would be decided on the breakfast table.
Having said that and in the spirit of sportsmanship I congratulate the victorious Vitali and wish his brother the best in his next outing with Alex povetkin. History has been made, two brothers are heavyweight champions at same time. Leon and Michael Spinks were both heavyweight champions but on different occasions, recall they defeated the likes of Ali and Larry Holmes.
The elated new king of WBC said that he was unsure if he would box on, but with the family dream is fulfilled, the man who has twice tried and failed to be elected mayor of Kiev since his previous appearance in the ring is not in any hurry to hand back the belt. “Without dreams, life is very boring,” he said. “It would be great to take all the world titles in the Klitschko family.”
I sincerely salute Samuel Okon Peter’s bravery, for putting our nation on the map of history even though he was slothful against Vitali Klitschko.
By now the loss of Nigeria’s Samuel Okon Peter (31-2,23KO) is known to all, I don’t also wish to reopen that lose, I don’t also wish to start analyzing what went wrong and how he would have done what. Rather I want to use this medium to encourage the Nigerian boxer to still hold on. He is still the hardest puncher the heavyweight class can boost of at the moment, the Klitschko’s has not brought us the razzmatazz that boxing fans crave for.
Meanwhile, Vitali Klitschko (38-2, 35KO’s) put up a brilliant performance. It was a clear evidence of brilliance against raw power. The Nigerian corner did no better. It was as if they never studied the strategy of Vitali before and during the training periods. The Nigerian lost not because his opponent was much better, it was simply because he did not fight.
However, as painful as the lose is to me and perhaps most Nigerians, I still think the Nigerian Nightmare has got a lot to offer, he should not quit but take his time and learn the trade well. He should now focus on those gray areas of his fighting style and get some tune up fights to stay in shape. The heavyweight class still lacks boxers with greatness in them, the Klitschko’s are formidable no doubt, but they rely more on fundamental boxing skill to thrive. Any boxer with the heart of a champion will mess any (current) heavyweight boxer up. Little wonder Don King is appealing to Klitschko to lure Lennox Lewis out of retirement. “The promoter Don King, who was in Berlin, suggested Klitschko should make an attempt to lure Lennox Lewis back into the ring for a rematch of their bloody 2003 battle, the last of Lewis's career, when Klitschko appeared to be winning the contest before being stopped after six rounds because of horrendous facial cuts. "What a triumph that fight would be for us old guys," said the 77-year-old King. Until that comes to life, I perceive a bored heavyweight class where fighting would be decided on the breakfast table.
Having said that and in the spirit of sportsmanship I congratulate the victorious Vitali and wish his brother the best in his next outing with Alex povetkin. History has been made, two brothers are heavyweight champions at same time. Leon and Michael Spinks were both heavyweight champions but on different occasions, recall they defeated the likes of Ali and Larry Holmes.
The elated new king of WBC said that he was unsure if he would box on, but with the family dream is fulfilled, the man who has twice tried and failed to be elected mayor of Kiev since his previous appearance in the ring is not in any hurry to hand back the belt. “Without dreams, life is very boring,” he said. “It would be great to take all the world titles in the Klitschko family.”
I sincerely salute Samuel Okon Peter’s bravery, for putting our nation on the map of history even though he was slothful against Vitali Klitschko.
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