Big Write Hook / January 2018 / Issue 013

ISSUE 013 // JANUARY 2018

“I was on my face. I heard the count from one to 10. I kept telling myself that I had to get up, but I couldn’t move. I couldn’t make myself move. It was the strangest feeling” -

Rocky Marciano

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After Christmas many people can end up in debt and feel helpless about their money worries. For free help, support and advice visit: stepchange.org/Howwecanhelpyou/Debtadvice.aspx

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0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Y 8 1 0 2 U 0 N A J 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 R Y 1 0 2 U 0 N 0 A J 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 U Y N R A J 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Y 8 R 1 A 0 2 U 0 N 0 A 0 J 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Y 8 R 1 A 0 ISSUE 013 // JANUARY 2018

4-5 // YEARLY ROUND UP // LIAM LAWER

6-7 // RETURN OF THE KING // TYSON FURY 8-9 // RINGWEAR // A FULL CIRCLE 10-11 // CONFIDENCE IN BOXING

12-13 // VIEW FROM THE SPONSORS // PG SPORTS

14-15 // ARMY BOXING INTERVIEWS // JAIME INGLEBY 16-17 // FORTIS ELITE BOXING GLOVES 18-19 // 2018 WISHLIST

20-21 // LINARES // BEATING BRITAIN’S BEST 22-23 // PREVIEW // LINARES V GESTA

24-25 // PREVIEW // SPENCE V PETERSON 26-27 // PREVIEW // USYK V BREDIS 28-29 // POETS CORNER

30// GOLDEN YEARS

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BIG WRITE HOOK 2017 REVIEW BIG WRITE HOOK 2017 REV

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How foolish this appears as we close such a great year in boxing. A gloved fist has burst through the coffin and earth, sending even the most ardent detractor scurrying away.

If boxing indeed lay buried, 2017 has proven that it was always still punching down there. Here lies the review…

The year kicked off in

exhilarating fashion on January 14th, with the thrilling unification between James DeGale and Badou Jack. A staggering volume of punches were thrown by both champions over the distance. Only DeGale’s tooth fairy worked harder, watching her currency fly gruesomely into the rapturous crowd. While there was disappointment at the drawn result, none was felt for the lively undercard, which included FOTY contender Immanuwel Aleem vs Ievgen Khytrov.

That great night was usurped just two weeks later. Showtime treated us to the highly anticipated Frampton-Santa Cruz rematch, while on HBO we saw the birth of star, when Miguel Berchelt proved too much for the war-torn Francisco Vargas. Santa Cruz and Berchelt put on stunning displays, but perhaps most impressive was Mikey Garcia’s chilling knockout of Dejan Zlaticanin, on the undercard of the Showtime broadcast.

Written By: Liam Lawer @Longcountboxing

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here are many out there who gleefully regurgitate that tired, pessimistic sentiment: ‘Boxing is dead’. Among them are those who exalt its supposed killer, Mixed Martial Arts.

Others delight in the suicidal tendencies of the sport; the incompetent judges, the schizophrenic sanctioning bodies. No black belts were stained red in the making, the dagger has been turned inward the entire time. Either way, on various media platforms they gather to dance on its imagined grave. If there was a ten bell salute, no one heard it over the noise of a certain mink-clad Irishman.

February continued the entertaining clashes, chiefly with Breazeale-Ugonoh and Vasquez Jr-Collazo. The next unmissable card, however, was the huge ThurmanGarcia unification on March 4th. The bout didn’t quite ignite as wished, but sizable viewing figures showed the public had appreciated the quality of the matchmaking.

Closer to home that night we had the circus that was Haye-Bellew. The dramatic scenes which unfolded, as the unlikely predator hunted the injured prey, produced a great night of entertainment, whether we like to admit it or not. The ridiculous score will be settled next year, provided Haye stays in one piece.

Heavyweight boxing has become more interesting, if not of a higher standard, since Tyson Fury befuddled Wladimir Klitschko in November 2015. But the old champion was back for one last fight for glory… And what a fight it was.

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SAW WA TAHT THAT THRA Y Joshua and Klitschko put on a stunning show. The 90,000 who packed out Wembley on April 29th had witnessed one of the best heavyweight title fights for years, and no doubt for years to come.

Terrific talent was shown over the next few weeks. Errol Spence literally caved in our own Kell Brook, and David Benavidez left mouths agape with his DragonBall Z-esque knockout of the rugged Porky Medina. But the ante was upped again in June, when Andre Ward walked off into the sunset after stopping the bogeyman, Sergey Kovalev. It was a legacy defining rematch for both men. Earlier in the month, Ryan Burnett picked up his first world title with a convincing win over the ‘Playboy’, Lee Haskins. His second would come in October, against the granite Zhanat Zhakiyanov. In a year where the number of British World Champions dwindled, Burnett is a welcome and worthy addition we can get behind.

S Y HT AW WAS TAH YEAR THAT

VIEW BIG WRITE HOOK 2017 REVIEW BIG WRITE HOOK 2017

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In July, Jeff Horn continued the trend of upsets with his unbelievable outgunning of the legendary Manny Pacquaio.

His story of school-teacher to superstar few could write better. Later, another home grown star, Josh Taylor, wowed with one of the most popular wins of the year, humbling the villainous Ohara Davies.

August brought an odd end to an era, as Mayweather left the game on 50-0 after beating a debutant. Terrence Crawford also made history, stopping the surprise package, Julius Indongo, to become the first undisputed champion since Bernard Hopkins.

But the real event of the year came on September 16th.

Pound for Pound giants Gennady Golovkin and Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez clashed in Las Vegas. It was a competitive and enthralling contest, with both men showing off their extensive repertoire of skills.

Unfortunately, in one of the characteristic blunders of the

sport, the occasion was marred somewhat by a preposterous 118-110 scorecard from Adelaide Byrd. A week previous, Srikaset Sor Rungvisai broke hearts when he devastated the sublime ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez, who had seemed invincible at the start of the year. More joy was felt overall for the ‘Superfly’ card, which was so good it seemed almost anachronistic.

Perhaps the cause for most excitement this year is the fantastic World Boxing Super Series, and deservedly so. The Cruiserweight tournament is one of the greatest events in the sport for years, and October managed to increase appreciation for its redheaded step child, the Super Middleweights. Eubank and Groves impressively stopped their worthy opponents, Yildirim and Cox respectively, to set up a monumental all-British clash in the semifinal, easily selling out the Manchester Arena in minutes.

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Speaking of tickets, the much maligned StubHub had its offices raided in early November, and hopefully this will lead to the end of the destructive force of ticket touting, which plagues the sport.

Reflecting on the month more positively, Deontay Wilder got rid of his rather rotund shadow, when he obliterated Bermane Stiverne in typical ‘Bomb Squad’ fashion. Domestically, Liam Smith put the nail in the coffin of his rivalry with Liam Williams, outpointing the game Welshman with a mature performance in Newcastle.

December continued the breakneck pace, starting with the swansong of Miguel Cotto, who took on speedster Sadam Ali in Madison Square Garden.

It was a thoroughly entertaining contest, there was a significant upset, and another master retired, adding to three immense and growing lists this year.

On the other hand, Rigondeaux’s non-performance against the omnipotent Lomachenko left a sour taste in many mouths.

But there have been sweeter

moments that followed. Billy Joe Saunders finally garnered considerable international respect with a masterclass in Canada, against hometown wrecking ball David Lemieux.

So good was his performance that there are whispers he may be the Golovkin-slayer. Finally, the likeable Caleb Truax used his unexpected shot to dethrone the fancied DeGale, a moving bookend to an exceptional year.

Boxing at times can appear the sick man of the sporting world, but even the most stubborn naysayer has to admit it is never truly dead. 2017, with its quality contests, shocking upsets, devastating knockouts and last stands of legends, has at the very least put the colour back in its cheeks. With cracking international matches already being scheduled, and domestic prospects such as Yarde, Dubois and PBK ready to be unleashed, there is little doubt that 2018 will continue the trend.

The beast may finally be back.

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The Gypsy King does not seem to care about any of the press that surrounds him and yet he still sells fights: from singing at press conferences to rolling around on the floor dressed in a Batman costume

CROW OF THOR yson Fury’s return to boxing has sent shock-waves through the heavyweight division with his latest, and possibly his most crucial, victory against UK Anti-Doping.

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The full details surrounding his retrospective 2-year ban or sabbatical, depending on what you believe, are not clear.The statement seeming to be a compromise for both parties involved. The only thing that really matters is Fury has been cleared to box again and attaining a license is now his next fight.

With the talent he has, the amount of money he can generate and the backing of MTK Global, BT Sport and Frank Warren, it shouldn’t be too hard to attain that.

The road to glory will be a hard one. The former unified Heavyweight Champion has not featured in the ring since defeating Wladimir Klitschko in Germany back in November 2015 and the Briton has now set his sights on recapturing all the belts that were stripped from him whilst out of the ring.

Fury returns from a severe bout with depression. He has always shown mental volatility, but his lay off may have been intensified by the incredible high of achieving a lifelong ambition only to come home to the vicious British press more concerned with lambasting him for comments based on his religious beliefs, rather than his celebrating his sporting triumphs.

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A CROWN OF THORNS Written By: Lewis Calvert @BigWriteHook

RNS Whilst not disregarding Fury’s comments about homosexuality, women and race, speaking strictly about his sporting triumph, he never got the credit he duly deserved for his historic world title win. The 29-year-old puts this perceived prejudice from the media down to his travelling background.

Particularly compared to the adulation Anthony Joshua received for defeating the unproven Charles Martin in little under six minutes.

Fury divides opinion and his actions outside the ring are both his selling points and his undoing. He speaks from the heart and though he is not always politically correct, some of it is even downright offensive, there never seems

to be any malicious intent in what he has to say. It is, at the very least, his honest opinion - something rare in a sport where the financial benefits from promoters, broadcasters and sponsors are so lucrative.

And even his biggest hater must admit he is funny.

The Gypsy King does not seem to care about any of the press that surrounds him and yet he still sells fights: from singing at press conferences to rolling around on the floor dressed in a Batman costume, the man makes headlines. He returns with a new found love for the sport and a desire to shed the weight he has put on in his absence from it.

This opens up the door for potential fights with

lower lever British fighters as he attempts to climb the mountain one again.

Reigniting a now tongue in cheek beef with David Price is one option, fan favourite Dave Allen is another and rising star Nathan Gorman could all be in with a shot at Fury. He would give them a difficult night whatever shape he is in though.

The 6” 9’ giant uses his incredible reach to keep opposition at bay, his repertoire of awkward twitches and faints cause opponents to constantly be on the defensive and his ability to rough people up or turn southpaw on a whim has seen him remain unbeaten in 25 professional bouts.

The Ring Magazine belt remains his proudest boxing achievement (until there is a Big Write Hook title of course) and he is touting it as bait for a potential megafights with Tony Bellew, Anthony Joshua or Deontay Wilder when he hits his peak in the more distant future.

So of all the things to look forward to in 2018, his journey alone is enough to capture the imaginations of boxing fans. The fractured heavyweight landscape is awash with great pretenders claiming that they are the heir to Fury’s throne, but none of which will find legitimacy until taking his scalp.

A FULL

CIRCLE Written By: James Lupton @R8und

A FULL CIRCL ack Johnson made pugilism history by becoming the first African American to lift the heavyweight championship, reigning from 1908–1915.

Infamous images of the Galveston Giant donning a pair of short, tight white trunks are derivable from the internet.

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By the 21st century the influence of urban fashion was playing a major part in boxing ringwear.

In the turn of the 20th century trunks of this type were typical in the sport. Johnson, Harry Greb, Jim Jeffries, Jack Dempsey the list goes on and on, filled headlines as heavyweight royalty. All of these warriors wore trunks firmly wrapped around their thighs; which ended on average 3-4 inches above the knee.

Fast forward past ‘the depression era’ to the ‘30s. In the red corner, wearing the black trunks trimmed with red, the lineal heavyweight champion of the world...’The Brown Bomber’, Joe Louis. One of the earliest fighters to brand himself through his ringwear with his own initials upon the left leg of his shorts. Later imitated by big, bad George Foreman, who in identical fashion embroidered the initials GF to his upper limb.

A Foreman foe once proclaimed: “I am the greatest!” Muhammad Ali considered by many as the best to ever step into the squared circle made this statement before his maiden world title bout. Ali went on to back up his words by stopping the feared Sonny Liston in the

seventh round, wearing the now famous all white trunks, with a black trim branded by Everlast. But I want to highlight Liston’s attire: he wore black shorts with white trim, almost the complete opposite to Ali. And instead of his initials, Liston had his full name, promoting himself proudly. Unfortunately for him though, it could be read clearly as he lay flat on his back, in the centre of the canvas.

Skipping to the close of the century, in particular the 1990’s, when Lennox Lewis was the king of the ring. Lewis is best known for defeating greats like Tyson, Rahman and Klitschko, and he always wore shorts that were similar in almost every fight: “LENNOX” screaming out at you across the waistband of his trunks, long, baggy and slack – more like a Chicago Bulls basketballer than a boxer.

A very different style of shorts to those worn by Johnson indeed.

By the 21st century the influence of urban fashion was playing a major part in boxing ringwear.

Lewis himself wore shorts by the brand Fubu who specialises in urban wear, but that was just the start. Cue two of the sports biggest characters: Prince Naseem Hamed and Pretty Boy Floyd Mayweather. The Prince was well known for wearing iconic leopard print, tassels and fur. Mayweather loved a long pair of shorts sometimes even passing for three quarter length trousers. Snakeskin was Floyd’s choice of design

towards the end of his career where ring wear really became more of a status symbol.

Olympic Silver medalist and world champion Amir ‘King’ Khan is one of Britain’s best known boxers today. His recent stint in the jungle on I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here providing one or two reasons as to why he wouldn’t wear snakeskin shorts. Khan himself set the bar for ringwear when he fought Devon Alexander back in 2014. FightLabel were the creators of Khan’s attire and he had 24-carat gold woven into the waistband of these white, nappa leather trunks, that also sported a crocodile trim. The shorts are reportedly the most expensive in boxing history, priced up at over a massive £20,000.

Finally, I have to mention Boxing’s most loved figure at the minute, Olympic Gold medalist and heavyweight champion of the world, Anthony Joshua.

In a recent documentary based on the build up to AJ’s bout with Wladimir Klitschko, Anthony, like Amir back in 2014, used FightLabel to recreate the iconic Ali white trunks and robe, as mentioned earlier in this article. Joshua used his Ali inspiration to overcome his hardest test to date and deliver an incredible performance in his all white attire. I guess the first step in becoming The Greatest, is to look like The Greatest.

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Mike Tyson, oozing confidence and savagery after knocking out Lou Savarese in June 2000. Having transcended the Heavyweight division for over a decade by this point, the former world champion emitted an aura of invincibility which reflected in his words and actions. His famous post fight interview went down in sporting history as one of the most powerful and chilling sporting monologues ever seen. Confidence personified.

Boxing without confidence is like trying practicing archery blindfolded. The intent and purpose is there, but without that one defining factor, the end product ends up lacking direction and often comes up short compared to expectation.

Confidence not only builds a boxer, it epitomises them. It shapes and moulds a fighter, pushing them to perform

above and beyond their own heightened expectations.

But what happens when it goes wrong? There runs a razor thin line in boxing. A line which separates the too much from the too little. What defines overconfidence? When does the comedic value of ringmanship teeter into uncontrolled chaos?

Boxing is a cruel mistress and will punish anyone who does not treat the ancient past time with the respect in deserves.

Even the most casual boxing fan, who has ever delved into the hours of ‘Boxing Fail’ YouTube videos, will be familiar with the Uzzy Ahmed and the almost comical confusion between selfbelief and borderline unfounded arrogance. The video clip of a young fighter dancing, jiving and two stepping his way to the ring in tongue-in-cheek fashion, only to be brutally knocked unconscious shortly after the first bell. These images will have been shown in amateur gyms across the country as a warning to young, impressionable fighters that boxing is not something ‘to be played’.

The term ‘over confident’ has so far been discussed with negative connotations; and for the mostpart of researching and planning this piece, I regarded it in purely the same way. I struggled and racked my brain searching for an example or a situation where over-confidence pays dividends

CONFIDENCE

AND

’m the best ever. I’m the most brutal and vicious, and most ruthless champion there’s ever been. There’s no one can stop me. Lennox is a conqueror?

No, I’m Alexander, he’s no Alexander. I’m the best ever.

There’s never been anybody as ruthless. I’m Sonny Liston,I’m Jack Dempsey. There’s no one like me. I’m cut from their cloth.

There’s no one that can match me. My style is impetuous, my defence is impregnable, and I’m just ferocious!’’

for a fighter. In the eleventh hour, it came to me. ‘The Notorious’ Conor McGregor.

Brash.

Outspoken.

Unforgettable. Whatever your opinion of the UFC phenomenon, it cannot be denied the impact and chatter generated by McGregor’s highly publicised ‘switch’ to boxing. Whether you like it or not, May-Mac went down as one of the most followed storylines of the year. McGregor’s purse for his part in ‘The Money Fight’ was rumoured to be over $100 million, a sum that 99% of all boxers would only dream. So what made it all happen? Was it for a title? No. Was it the public intrigue of a 50/50? Definitely not. It was the over-confidence of both Mayweather and McGregor alike that attracted the masses.

Some value boxing for the integrity. Some value it for the thrill. But all will find some respect and time for the confidence that moulds the sport into the unmistakable beacon of light that it is today.

It remains to be seen if over confidence has a place in the modern day business of boxing; but the attention and revelry that provides accompaniment shines as one of the defining facto’s of the modern day swagger that is boxing.

OVER

CONFIDENCE

IN BOXING

‘’I’m the best ever. I’m the most brutal and vicious, and most ruthless champion there’s ever been. There’s no one can stop me. Lennox is a conqueror? No, I’m Alexander, he’s no Alexander. I’m the best ever. There’s never been anybody as ruthless. I’m Sonny Liston,I’m Jack Dempsey. There’s no one like me. I’m cut from their cloth. There’s no one that can match me.

My style is impetuous, my defence is impregnable, and I’m just ferocious!’’

Written By: Tom Humber @Thomas_Humber

BE SMART

#

Sponsorship

sets SAIL

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# W It’s real

The world of boxing is laden with fighters and their managers appealing for sponsorship.

Here we look at an up and coming sponsor in the US called PG Sports, with a word from its founder and CEO Paul Guarino.

I started PG Sports in 2011 as a sophomore (second year) at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut, United States. PG Sports at first was just a twitter, I tweeted about sports instead of my personal page. Then it quickly

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evolved into a clothing & media brand and I’ve gotten over 150 professional athletes in all of the major leagues to wear PG Sports gear.

I also started a segment of my blog #WeBlogWednesdays which has a unique sports related article, story, or interview every Wednesday.

It’s real content, from real athletes.

Back in 2013, I reached out to light heavyweight World champion Bad Chad Dawson

(34-5) to send him some apparel. He was glad to wear PG Sports gear since we are from the same area of New Haven, Connecticut. He’s been wearing our gear ever since then. His next fight in 2018 he’ll be wearing PG Sports on his trunks. @OfficialBadChad This year we went all in boxing and we have some great fighters to watch out for.

Having rising featherweight prospect Tramaine “The

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Mighty Midget” Williams (who is signed with promoter Roc Nation Sports) on our team who is now 14-0 and 5-0 this year. Williams is dropping down in weight and fighting for the vacant WBO International Super Bantamweight Title February 10, 2018. @Tramaine_Midget

It’ 2x World super welterweight rea Champion Cornelius “K9” Bundrage joined our team this year. He is 36-6

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he world of boxing is laden with fighters and their managers appealing for sponsorship. Here we look at an up and coming sponsor in the US called PG Sports, with a word from its founder and CEO Paul Guarino.

I started PG Sports in 2011 as a sophomore (second year) at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut, United States. PG Sports at first was just a twitter, I tweeted about sports instead of my personal page. Then it quickly evolved into a clothing & media brand and I’ve gotten over 150 professional athletes in all of the major leagues to wear PG Sports gear.

It’ rea

I also started a segment of my blog #WeBlogWednesdays which has a unique sports related article, story, or interview every Wednesday.

It’s real content, from real athletes.

from the same area of New Haven, Connecticut. He’s been wearing our gear ever since then. His next fight in 2018 he’ll be wearing PG Sports on his trunks. @OfficialBadChad

Back in 2013, I reached out to light heavyweight World champion Bad Chad Dawson (34-5) to send him some apparel. He was glad to wear PG Sports gear since we are

This year we went all in boxing and we have some great fighters to watch out for.

Mighty Midget” Williams (who is signed with promoter Roc Nation Sports) on our team who is now 14-0 and 5-0 this year. Williams is dropping down in weight and fighting for the vacant WBO International Super Bantamweight Title February 10, 2018. @Tramaine_Midget

Having rising featherweight prospect Tramaine “The

2x World super welterweight Champion Cornelius

# W e B l o g W e d n e s d a y s

It’s real content, from real athletes.

It’s real content, from real athletes.

It’s real content, from real athletes.

It’s real content, from real athletes.

It’s real content, from real athletes.

It’s real content, from real athletes.

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real content, from athletes.

It’s real content, from real athletes. ’s real content, from al athletes.

It’s real content, from real athletes.

It’s real content, from real athletes.

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Jimmy “Quiet Storm” Williams 15-0-1 welterweight joined in 2015 who is the current USNBC WBC Champion.

Jamel “Super Fi” Herring 16-2 was a 2012 US Olympian. @JamelHerring So for any budding young sponsors or a p p a re l designers, simply reaching out to fighters could be the start of something special.

Fo r m o re i nfo r m at i o n visit: pgboxing.com or pgsports.com/pgsportsteam

Written By: Paul Guarino @@PGSports

#WeBlogWednesdays

Anthony “A1” Marsella Jr. also

Divante “The Dominator Jones” is another super lightweight that is 9-2. @DivanteEnigma

@JimmyQSWilliams

It’s real content, from real content, fr realIt’s athletes.

It’s real content, from real athletes. real athletes.

Ian “Young General” Green 12-2 a middleweight prospect has been on our team since 2015. He was the first boxer to wear our logo on his trunks.

Green will be going down to super welterweight in 2018. @IanGreenBoxing

joined our team this year. He is a young super lightweight prospect that is 7-0. Marsella trains out of Las Vegas at Floyd Mayweather’s Gym. @AnthonyMarsella

SPORTS It’s real content, from real athletes.

“K9” Bundrage joined our team this year. He is 36-6 and will have a PG Sports logo on his trunks in 2018. @K9Boxing

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’s real content, from It’s real content, from al athletes. real athletes.

PONSORS

n the second of a twopart series looking at the life of an amateur boxer; we take a look at two members of the Army Boxing Team (ABT); last season’s captain Ryan Fillingham, 64kg, and John Marvin, 81kg, who recalls the start of his journey into the world of international boxing with Team Philippines.

The Army Boxing Team

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@BigWriteHook

Read part one here.

At the close of the boxing season, those not involved in international competition are expected to return to their units, to maintain their Army careers.

Ryan Fillingham since joining the ABT in 2013 has balanced his time between the Army Team and his Regiment. He has passed the infamous All Arms Commando Course and completed training exercises in Albania and the US (twice).

What was your first bout for the Army Team?

My first bout for the ABT was also my first my senior bout; in the UK Armed Forces Elite Boxing Championships, against Royal Navy Boxer, Robbie Mathews (the previous year’s ABA Elite Silver Medallist).

What is your favourite Boxing memory so far with the Army Team?

Travelling to Germany, boxing a German international Select Team, I won my bout and the team were victorious 7-1.

Who has been your toughest opponent Boxing for the ABT? Alfie Price, Hoddesdon, 3-1 up in our series of bouts. I think he’s turned Professional; definitely someone to watch out for.

The ABT regularly hosts and travels for the best sparring; often including professional boxers, who’s been your toughest spar?

(Without hesitation) “Carl Frampton, is without doubt my toughest spar, for a Featherweight he packs a punch”. @Ryan_Designer

Who do do consider us the biggest talent on the ABT? Ebonie Jones, 54kg; in her first season with the ABT and as a senior boxer she won every competition she entered, Elite National Championships, GB Championships & The Haringey Box Cup. What is your ambition in the ring?

Elite National Champion, I am determination to achieve this, before I hang the gloves up!

Do you ever intend to turn professional?

I’d like to give it go one day; but it’s tough to do in the Army, I would have to leave the ABT, it is for amateurs only. The ABT gym has everything; my unit would have to be very supportive, it’s not impossible, others have done it. Connor Vian (unbeaten Paratrooper and Croydon Welterweight) left the ABT to turn professional.

On Soldiering …

What is your favourite soldiering memory?

Passing my Commando Course and earning the right to wear the Green Beret.

What has been your toughest challenge during your Army career?

Joining at 16, and adapting to Army life just after leaving school.

What is your ambition as a soldier?

Continue to return to my unit in the close season, and develop my soldiering career so I have a career to return to when I’ve finished boxing.

Any advice, for young boxers, considering a career in the Army?

Go for it, Army training can be challenging, but it’s supposed to be. The opportunities I’ve received are amazing; my boxing has only benefited, during the boxing season I train full time, as part of an elite sports programme.

Army 81kg Boxer, LCpl Marvin represents the Philippines, his mother’s country of birth as an international.

Following a chance meeting between the Team Philippines coaching staff and ABT Head Coach, Jase Browring, at the 2016 Tammer Tournament - LCpl Marvin was offered the opportunity to travel to the Philippines, in order to be considered for the South Asian Games Team.

After suffering a couple of d i s a p p o i nt i n g and controversial defeats at the end of the 2016/17 season, LCpl Marvin with the support of the ABT and his regiment, 1PWRR seized the opportunity, and travelled to the Philippines.

Overcoming the language barrier, third world conditions and tough training regime; John beat the odds and was not only selected for the South Asia Games, he finished them as 81kg gold medallist.

What is the Training like with Team Philippines?

The days are long; they start at 0500 on the track, followed by two further sessions throughout the day. Mornings are strength and circuits. Afternoons are boxing related - bags, pads, tech & sparring etc.

What did you find was the toughest aspect of training?

The language barrier made it tough to understand what was required; we had a training camp in China, following a two-way translation can be tricky.

What were your final preparations like in the final few weeks before such a big event?

The final few weeks of training were focused on sparring and sharpening. I did a lot of rounds with my team mate, Eumir Felix Marcial (Team Philippines, 75kg boxer who also took Gold).

A typical day would consist of a track session in the morning then sparring and sharpening pads in the afternoon.

What was it like to be part of such a large scale event with so many countries competing?

The opening ceremony was unreal I feel so proud to have been of it. The parade in the stadium was spectacular.

What was your daily routine like?

The day would start with medicals & weigh in, we would then return to the hotel and rest.

Any training would be done outside, in a park next to the hotel.

Who was your toughest opponent?

On paper the Cambodian boxer was the most experienced (a Cuban who had found his way to Cambodia). I found the boxer from Thailand in the semis the toughest; he’d won gold at the previous games. His style wasn’t flashy but he kept coming forward relentlessly, which made him awkward. I left nothing to chance in the final; my opponent was a boxer from the host nation.

What was the reaction to your Gold Medal & does the future hold?

The welcome and reaction in the Philippines has been amazing, I’ve done a lot of TV & interviews.

In the immediate future I will return to the ABT, train hard, continue to develop my skills and compete in as many bouts as I can. (John has already recorded one TKO victory this season). Internationally – early next year I am travelling to Cuba, for a training camp with Team Philippines. The goal is to medal at the Asian Games next year, resulting in qualification for the Tokyo Olympics.

Written By: Jaime Ingleby @Jaime_Ingleby79 @BigWriteHook @Ryan_Designer 15

Available at: www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B072MBDVRQ Speaking to Big Write Hook, Adnan Ramzan, co-founder of Fortis which is a boxing equipment and fightwear brand tells us why he thinks his Fortis Elite boxing gloves are the best on the market, in his opinion.

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in a bid to always remain open and honest with our readers, expect bias and advertising in the following article...

Fortis Elite boxing gloves are meticulously handcrafted with the highest quality genuine leather. They are comfortable to wear, lightweight and are made with a beautiful design.

The gloves are double stitched making them ultra durable.

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Fortis Elite Boxing Gloves are perfect for boxing, Muay

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A large hook and loop strap assures that your wrists will have the best possible support and reduce your risk of injury. The strap also allows you to quickly take them off and put them on with ease.

Our boxing gloves are aesthetically beautiful with a elegant m i n i m a l i st look providing style as well as comfort.

You have to look good when fighting and theses boxing gloves do not disappoint. With the Fortis logo on the straps,

the gloves also have our trademark Fortis lion on the front; the king of the jungle helping you to become the king of the ring.

The lion on our gloves embodies Fortis, as the Turkish proverb says: ‘A lion sleeps in the heart of every brave man’ and this is applies to our brand.

The name Fortis comes from the Latin word meaning brave, strong and courageous, and we think all fighters share these characteristics.

When you purchase a pair of Fortis Elite Boxing Gloves, you also get a PDF book jam packed full of useful tips and advice. It teaches you all about boxing, including the correct stance and posture, how to punch properly, basic punches, how to defend yourself and much more.

Available in two colours, black with a red logo or white with black logo, take your pick today to help pick your punches tomorrow.

brave, strong and courageous

Written By: Adnan Ramzan @Fortisfight

hilst every other boxing outlet has gone with unification fights in their “2018 Wishlist”, here at Big Write Hook we like to be different. So we have looked at the alternative and realistic fights that could happen next year. But for those of you already crying out that we should at least acknowledge the biggest fights available here are a few honourable mentions: AJ v Wilder, Kovalev v Beterbiev, Benavidez v Ramirez, Golovkin v Saunders, Thurman v Spence and Burnett v Tete. Obviously we all want those fight. Give us them fights and scrap this list... or throw these on the undercards and give us some value for money. Either way, let’s look ahead with dreamy eyes and wonder, what if the following fights were to be made in 2018...

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Dillian Fur y

Whyte v Hughie (Heavyweight)

With all eyes on the champions of the Heavyweight division, it seems there is little attention left for two of the sports hungriest contenders. Though Hughie’s meagre attempt at a World championship flew under the radar on uneventful Youtube promotion, he will now have to get back into the mix with a big name on his record after his first career loss. Whyte, for many, still has unfinished business with Dereck Chisora, who arguably won their first fight. However, the young lion wants to move on to bigger, better and possible safer options. Matchmaking for the Body Snatcher seems to be a bit of trouble for Eddie Hearn but Fury is doing that job for him, calling out Whyte but subsequently having had his bluff called, only to say he needed a long camp to beat Whyte. Should these two meet, it could begin a trend of top contenders fighting each other, rather than waiting for European cannon fodder.

Stylistically, it may be a horror show or a real tear up; it is hard to know which version of each fighter will turn up, but if it is the best either has to offer then we are all in for a real treat.

Jorge Linares v Vasyl Lomachenko (Lightweight) The rise of Lomachenko in the professional ranks comes as no surprise to those who have followed his amateur career, but it is still incredibly impressive. Hi Tech continues to outclass his foes so easily that the humiliation is even more painful than the beating they are taking. He has now forced his last four adversaries to pull out between rounds coining his new nickname “No Mas Chenko”. It may be that only larger, more powerful men in the divisions above him have what it takes to beat him.

Step forward Jorge Linares.

Golden Boy has made a name for himself on our shores by outclassing UK based fighters.

Could Linares’ size advantage and silky boxing skills be enough to nullify the man who some believe to be the best pound for pound fighter to ever lived? A puglists dream, it would be the purest form of boxing we have seen ever seen.

Anthony Yarde v Frank Buglioni (Light Heavyweight) It is a familiar story: a talented Frank Warren fighter can’t get a fight with a popular Matchroom fighter because Eddie Hearn doesn’t want to give his rival any money or risk taking an L to a competitor.

After the abominable handling of Manchester’s Anthony Crolla and Terry Flanagan as world champions but never unifying, it seemed there would never be a cross promotion fight. However, it may have been that too much was at stake back then. The ferocious raw power of Yarde has been impressing fans in his breakout year on BT Sports, seeing him climb to number one spot in the UK on BoxRec. Buglioni has the better experience and superior boxing skills though and would be able to negate the rawness for a few rounds..

Seeing how the two collide would be very intriguing, but much more than that, with not so much on the line in terms of belts, money or pride, it could open the door to a bit of cooperation between the country’s two biggest promoters. Getting their young talent out against each other would benefit everybody, especially the fans.

Anthony Crolla v Sean Dodd (Lightweight)) Two of the nicest guys in sport, let alone boxing. A fight between boxing’s friendliest faces would give the current generation of trash talkers a lesson in respect and gratitude. It would be easy to say Crolla is levels above Masher because... well, he is.

Obviously. I know that, you know that, Crolla knows that, even Dodd himself knows that.

The Mancunian has a lists of

fierce foes under his belt. Million Dollar dealt with Ricky Burns pretty easily in his last outing off the back of two crushing defeats to Jorge Linares. But over this whole exhausting saga Crolla has shown signs that his age, 31, and the wars he has been through, are starting to show.

Contrastingly Dodd, it seems is only getting better - even at 33 years old. Each step up in class including the questionable second defeat to Scott Cardle, which many people believe he won, have only increased belief in the notion that he is capable of winning a major title. By hook or by crook Masher could do it and who would begrudge him?

Dodd has been underestimated so many times before in his career it is hard to know where his potential stops, because one thing is for sure, his heart would not let him down. Neither man has an upcoming fight that I can think of and this potential slip up for Crolla has all the makings of a cracking little scrap. And though this fight is probably is the most left of field in the alternative list, it may just be the most possible. You heard it here first...”

Josh Taylor v Jack Catterall (Super Lightweight) Taylor is the most promising British prospect to emerge this year. A hugely impressive win against pantomime villain Ohara Davies won the hearts and minds of fight fans not impressed by Davies’ disrespectful trash talking.

The composure Taylor shows for just 11 fights, in which he has remained unbeaten, is why many experts are touting him as a future World champion.

He has also shown he is willing to risk that record against other unbeaten competitors, just as Catterall has done, who himself has taken a few “0’s” on his way to 19 wins unbeaten.

The two southpaws are the slickest out of the domestic crop and unless they are going to immediately pursue the belts vacated by former undisputed champion Terence Crawford, there is no reason why they shouldn’t have a

Written By: Lewis Calvert @BigWriteHook

bash at each other now and rekindle their rivalry when they have belts in the future. It is a trade fight of the highest class.

Tys on Price

Fur y v David (Heavyweight)

“Be nice to people you meet on the way up because you will meet them on the way down.”

This fight could well have been on somebody’s 2013 Wish List, as this British grudge match was talked about back when these two giants were beginning their careers. It is only with hindsight can we laugh at how Pricey was the bookies favourite. Fast forward a few years and the disparity between the peak of Fury’s success –three world titles draped over his arms and Price’s lowest ebb laying spark out on the floor after hammer blow from Erkan Teper - and you would never have thought these two would ever meet in the ring. But as fate would have it, Fury’s road back to the pinnacle of the sport requires he tests his unfit self against dangerous, but not too dangerous fighters. Price has the power to knock out any man but Fury has dealt with fighters far more astute than the “big stiff idiot” Scouser They are both huge names, but they are at the bottom of the rankings once again, so they need each other to remain relevant in the division and the forefront of the public’s thoughts. Fury’s renewed focus is refreshing and though he has said he will put aside his entertaining pre-fight antics, you have to assume his natural character would surface and the build up to this fight would be as entertaining as the bout itself... for as long as it lasts.

So get your popcorn ready for a big drama show and all the other cliched catchphrases you’re supposed to end a piece like this with because if 2018 is anything like 2017 then we are in for a real showcase of talent that could see the further demise of World champions and Hall of Famers. Who is replaces them, well, only time will tell.

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BEATING BRITAIN’’S BEST Written By: Hannah Lines

@LinesHannah87

A brief history of Golden Boy he rise of Jorge Linares has seen an equal fall for some of the UK’s best boxers. His classy dispatching of Luke Campbell, Anthony Crolla and Kevin Mitchell in recent times have seen Golden Boy become a fan favourite on our own shores as he has swept up the best of Britain. Here we look back at his most devastating victories against UK opponents.

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Linares’ first UK fight was in May 2015 against Kevin Mitchell (394,29 KOs), at the O2 Arena in Greenwich, London. They met for Jorge’s first defence of the WBC World Lightweight Title.

The two opponents came in to the ring and gave the fans exactly what they wanted to see – a truly remarkable display of boxing at its best and by some, it was seen as the fight of the year. After Linares was knocked down in the fifth, tensions rose and it was perceivable that our man from Essex may have been able to overcome the Champion.

However, as the second half of the bout unfolded, Linares struck back – inflicting a devastating cut to Mitchell’s eye. This in turn, was the deciding factor on the outcome of the fight – with referee Victor Loughlin calling it off in the last seconds of the tenth round. Prior to the official stoppage, the scorecards reveal that Mitchell was ahead on

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points and if he hadn’t sustained such a brutal injury – he may have actually been victorious.

In September 2016, Linares came to the UK again to challenge Anthony Crolla (32-63,13KOs) for his second defence of his WBA World Lightweight title – meeting in the ring at the Manchester Arena. The two fighters went the distance, resulting in a very close battle of endurance and skill throughout.

On reference of the judge’s scorecards, it was clear that the majority had seen this as a very closely fought bout – however all were in favour of the challenger, Linares, with a unanimous decision. After the fight, both fighters showed due respect and praise for their opponent and soon after the event, a rematch was announced.

Neither Crolla or Linares entered into an interim bout with other fighters in anticipation of the rematch. Six months since their previous encounter, the two reunited once more at the Manchester Arena in the UK, in March 2017. With Crolla keen to give his hometown fans the fight they had flocked to see and Linares adamant on retaining the belt – this was sure to be a fight to remember from the first bell. Both fighters approached the initial few rounds in equal proportion; showing their

ability as formidable fighters of the event. However, in the beginning of the second half, Crolla had sustained a cut to the eye and in the seventh round was knocked to the canvas by a brutal uppercut – surviving the count, but at what cost?

Crolla, holding his hometown following most dear, powered through and showed flurries of strength in the remaining rounds, which were closely counteracted by Linares and his surge of skill and stamina. As the final bell sounds however, it was made clear by a unanimous decision from the judges (all 118-109) that Linares prevailed and was still the WBA World Lightweight Title Champion.

Linares’ most recent bout was with our own, 2012 Olympic Gold Medallist, Luke Campbell (17-2,14KOs) from Yorkshire.

They entered the ring on 23rd September last year for Linares’ second defence of the WBA World Lightweight Title, after obtaining his initial victory against, the formerly mentioned, Crolla.

Jorge met “Cool Hand” Luke at the Forum in Inglewood (California, USA), for what was a valuable encounter for both sides. Campbell was facing his first shot at a World Title, after a highly commendable amateur

history and a solid progression in his professional career – holding a firm 17 wins to 1 loss record prior to the event. For Linares, fighting the highest ranked and most appropriate fighter at the time, was a bout that was clear to develop his career as a formidable boxer and enrich his experience against up and coming contenders.

The two entered into, what was to be acknowledged as, a very close fight. The bout displayed both of the boxer’s abilities and courage, in what was an unpredictable outcome prior to the final rounds. They both gave a wonderful example of boxing class and should be congratulated for it; however, one was to prevail on the night. In the final result, a split decision was announced, with two judges ruling Linares as the winner. The scores were tight though and Campbell believed that he was ahead on points, despite his knock down – which may lead to the question of a possible rematch being on the cards in the future.

Golden Boy continues to dominate on the world stage too and his next fight comes against Mercito Gesta in the USA on January 27th and for more on that fight read our fight preview next.

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orge Linares makes his third defence of the WBA World Lightweight title against Mercito Gesta on January 27th at the Forum, Inglewood, as he continues to climb the pound for pound list.

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It is the second time in four months that Linares (433,27KOs) will be fighting, after beating the UK’s Luke Campbell (17-2,14KOs) on 23rd September last year.

MERCITO GESTA SPEAKS EXCLUSIVELY TO HANNAH LINES BEFORE HIS UPCOMING WORLD TITLE FIGHT WITH JORGE LINARES.

Challenging him this time around is Mercito Gesta (311-2,17KOs), originally from the Philippines, but who currently resides in San Diego, California, USA. “No Mercy” Gesta is now fighting out of the same stable as opponent Linares with Golden Boy Promotions and trains with Manny Pacquiao’s former trainer – Freddie Roach.

In previous years, Linares has also been under the guidance of Roach and this may serve as a disadvantage to his defence for Gesta.

This fight will be a true test of Mercito’s ability, with Linares being - by far - his most experienced opponent to date.

That is not to say that underdog Gesta doesn’t hold a notable professional career: with only one loss on his record, which was now over five years ago, when he challenged Miguel Vazquez (39-6,15KOs) for the IBF World Lightweight Title at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas. It was a unanimous decision for the judges on the night, all in favour of the Champion, Vazquez, in which all of their score cards showed a wide margin on points and Gesta’s loss was undeniable.

Since that night in December 2012, Gesta has gone on to claim a further five wins for his record – three of which he claimed by an early stoppage or KO. However, his impending bout with Linares will be his first title fight since his

loss against Vazquez. Has he adapted since that defeat and has he had enough experience, with more recent opponents, to approach the level of a World Title fighter again. One thing is for sure, the hunger is still there.

Speaking exclusively to Hannah Lines for Big Write Hook, he said: “This fight means a lot to me, like every fighters dream is to have a shot at the world title and every fighter has their own reasons. My reason is because it’s not only me that dreams of this title fight, it is also my family, my countrymen and my fans all around the world who believe in me.

“I feel energized and strong every time they cheer for me and I really appreciate the love and support that they give me. And last but not least this fight is really important to me because this is my dads dream before I was even born, I wouldn’t be here if it’s not for him.

He believes that this time will come. With all his sacrifice and teaching, I made it this far and I dedicate this fight to my dad.”

After Linares’ approaching fight with Gesta, there have been suggestions that the “Golden Boy” may move weight division, to challenge potential opponents, (Super Lightweight) Mikey Garcia (37-0,30KOs) or (Super Featherweight) Vasyl Lomachenko (10-1,8KOs).

Linares is clearly a worthy contender in the present elite group of globally recognised b oxe r s , however his next move beyond January 27th and who he decides to fight may be the deciding factor of his lasting legacy. Golden Boy could move up a weight class to fight Garcia or drop down to contend Lomachenko – a win against either of those fighters would be worth its weight in gold, but all that is at the mercy of Gesta who will be looking to create his own legacy when the pair meet.

Written By: Hannah Lines @LinesHannah87

lite, a word used in modern boxing more often than necessary.

With the dictionary definition of most powerful, best-educated, or best-trained. Meaning that there is only room for a certain number of fighters to hold this title and diluting the water too much takes away from it. There are also fighters who haven’t quite had that career defining match up that elevates them to this level.

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Written By: Connor Hutton @CanvasBoxing

Errol Spence Jr is at that point where he may be considered an elite fighter in terms of talent, but he lacks the names under his belt to justify such a claim.

‘The Truth’ is making the first defence of his IBF Welterweight Title against Two Weight World Champion Lamont ‘ H avo c’ Pet e r s o n on January 20th at The Barclays Centre in Brooklyn.

Spence is coming off a career best performance when he ripped the IBF strap from UK’s Kell Brook back in May. Forcing Brook’s corner to throw in the towel due to an injury to his eye socket. On the night though, Spence Jr proved Olympic pedigree, outclassing his opponent on the world stage with his slick southpaw boxing ability.

Peterson was last out in February when he won the WBA ‘Regular’ strap against David Avanesyan.

It will be almost a year out the ring for the 33-year-old. He aims to win his fourth world title against Spence, undoubtedly the odds will be stacked against the man from Tennessee.

Although Peterson won the WBA Regular last time out, this won’t be a unification as the IBF will only sanction unifications with the WBA Super, a title which Keith Thurman holds.

This isn’t a fight Spence can simply overlook. Peterson has some familiar wins on his record: one being a split decision victory over UK’s own Amir Khan and over Felix Diaz.

He also has been in some hard defeats with world level fighters such as Danny Garcia,

Lucas Matthysse and Timothy Bradley. Though no longer at his peak, the hunger to be champion again will not have changed. Peterson has proven to be dangerous in the past.

The press conference was relatively uneventful, both fighters shown respect throughout. Spence did have a dig at his last victim though.

“Lamont can push me to even greater levels. I feel like he is a better fighter than Kell Brook and has even more heart than Brook”. A bold statement, although he may only be saying it to drum up more interest in the fight.

A year out the ring for Peterson at the age of 33 could be very damaging to himself, but he insists he has been in the gym and staying focused waiting for his time to come once again. We my see the best Havoc on the night, the same one that narrowly lost out to Danny Garcia by a majority decision in 2015, and the one that shocked the world by taking Amir Khan’s two titles away from him. That is what people will be tuning in to see.

It’s a solid test and a decent first defence for Spence. Even though he can’t underestimate his opponent, he will have his eye on that unification between himself and WBA Super, WBC Title Holder Keith Thurman later in 2018. Both have the same promoter and management behind them, a fight that will be simple to make providing Spence comes through this one and he will if he is good enough.

The word comes up again….

Elite - most powerful, besteducated, or best-trained.

When used correctly in the sport, it sets apart the very good from the great. There’s a handful of ‘Elite’ fighters on the planet. Spence wants in the club and Peterson doesn’t care about the club. They are both dangerous mindsets to go into a fight with so when the two collide will ‘The Truth’ come out or will Havoc wreak?

Elite most powerful, best educated, or best trained.

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TRUTH MEETS HAVOC

Usyk v Briedis 2

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JANUARY’S BOUT WILL COMPRISE THE FIRST OF TWO SEMI-FINALS IN THE MUCH LAUDED WORLD BOXING SUPER SERIES TOURNAMENT

ony B e l l ew, it m u st be said, has never been one particularly given to humility. The WBC Emeritus Cruiserweight champion is often notable for his brash public utterances; he is a man m o re l i ke l y to of fe n d than re s p e c t .

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It was striking, then, to hear his assessment of Oleksandr Usyk. As Usyk, an Olympic gold medallist for Ukraine in 2012, readied himself for a WBO Cruiserweight title tilt a year gone September, Bellew was glowing in his praise.

“He is the real deal”, Bellew declared unequivoc ally.

“He really, really is. He is outstanding, and I do think he is the only person in the world who can cause me problems at cruiserweight.”

Over the fifteen months since that declaration, little has occurred to suggest Bellew may have been wrong. Usyk scored a unanimous, wide decision over Kryzystof Glowacki on the Pole’s home turf, the only defeat of Glowacki’s 29-fight career.

Since then, three fairly comfortable title defences have been notched up in less than a year. The most recent was the most impressive, as Usyk nullified the usually aggressive Marco Huck. Huck, who holds the joint-record for cruiserweight title defences, had no answer for the Ukrainian’s combinations, with the inevitable end coming in the tenth round. Had Usyk not mysteriously moved away from using punishing lefts to Huck’s body, it is likely it would have arrived even sooner.

That fight marked another away victory for Usyk and, despite the acclaim that has met his thirteen professional fights thus far, he will require another road win if he is to

retain his one-hundred per cent record. Usyk travels to Riga, Latvia, on January 27th, where he will face off against a fellow unbeaten fighter in the shape of Mairis Briedis.

While Usyk will be defending his WBO belt, Briedis will be looking to retain his WBC version. Briedis, two years Usyk’s s enior, hims elf despatched Huck earlier in 2017, racking up a wide decision back in April.

Briedis arrives on the back of a clumsy, though deserved, victory over Mike Perez. In a bout where both men saw a point deducted from their respective tallies, Briedis came out the victor in a unanimous decision, though it was not a fight which set too many hearts racing. Never really catching alight, it was a tussle plagued by too much holding, and Briedis’ victory came by way of racking up a majority of the few eye-catching punches that were on display.

January’s bout will comprise the first of two semi-finals in the much lauded World Boxing Super Series tournament, a week ahead of Murat Gassiev’s meeting with Yunier Dorticos.

With Usyk the tournament’s first seed and Briedis its third, it would appear on the surface to have all the makings of a classic.

Yet, while Gassiev-Dorticos looks to be a genuine ‘pick’em’ fight, it is difficult to see anything other than a Usyk victory in Riga. Where Briedis clunked his way to that points victory over Perez, Usyk strolled to the Huck win, displaying a fleet-footedness and range of combination punching that men several weight divisions lower than him will h ave looked upon with envy.

For the majority of his fledgling professional career, Usyk has looked a cut above those placed in front of him. His inability to force combatants to face him in Ukraine owes more to his country’s low standing amongst boxing’s decision-makers than any doubts surrounding his credentials as a true force in the sport; the Klitschko brothers, fellow Ukrainians, sought boxing expertise in Germany and, understanding the realities facing them, promptly turned it into adopted home turf.

Usyk combines sharp footwork with a steeliness that few could be forgiven for baulking at. A smattering of ludicrous past hairstyles aside, he presents the image of a man who could quite feasibly have been chiselled from Ukrainian rock, all jutting jawbone and menacing stare. He boasts an amateur record of 335-15, has speed in abundance and, to make Briedis’ task that little more complex, fights as a southpaw.

Though for all the Latvian’s flaws in his last outing, opponents still write him off at their peril.

He remains undefeated and is a tough operator; seeded third for good reason. Should he be able to spoil Usyk’s tactics, slow him down or force him to tire, he could well spring a surprise. Moreover, the backing of a 10,000-strong crowd will do him little harm.

But that home advantage does not seem to deter Usyk. “I do not care where I fight”, was his succinct summary to ESPN upon the bout’s announcement.

That is probably for the best.

Should Usyk come out on top once more, a tournament finale in Saudi Arabia awaits him in May. It would take a bold m a n to b et ag a i n st him winning there too.

Written By: Christopher Weatherspoon @Christoph_21

poets

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His pressure was mounting along with his weight.

He got into training a little bit late.

In the grey light of morning He’d be seen on the street. sweating it out on sneaker clad feet.

He sparred with his partners. with few in the stands.

Then pummel the light bag with lightning fast hands.

The fight date was approaching and no one in the State gave him much of a chance of escaping his fate.

The champ was unbeaten.

He ground his foes down.

They’d be down, looking up at the Champ looking down.

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How then to cope with an unbeatable foe?

This cup would not pass even if he wished it so.

He was not getting younger, This was his last shot.

Would he be one more challenger that history forgot?

He was no timid soul, avoiding the chance.

He’d go down swinging.

No regrets, he would dance.

He stepped into the ring and they stood toe to toe They touched gloved hands together When the bell rings, you go.

Written By: Drake Braye hellopoetry.com/poem/209714/the-boxer/

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1900 George Dixon vs Terry McGovern (1900)

Golden Years

A somewhat overlooked character in the history of boxing in comparison to Jack Johnson or Joe Louis, George Dixon blazed a trail for future generations of black fighters to follow.

A tough two handed fighter with agile feet and exceptional head movement, the young Dixon learned his craft on the vaudeville circuit. Some estimates say he took part in over 1000 bouts throughout his career. His ring generalship, fighting spirit and stamina were all second to none. He would bully opponents back to the ropes with his stiff jab before throwing combination after combination to the body.

The gambling fraternity which controlled boxing liked fights to last in order to maximise profits, forcing superior fighters like Dixon to carry opponents in order to secure future work.

Nevertheless, in 1890 Dixon became the first black fighter to win a world title, claiming the bantamweight title 18 years before Jack Johnson would become heavyweight champion. The following year he became the first two-weight champion the sport had ever known by winning the featherweight title.

Forced to regain the belt in 1897 after losing it the previous year, Dixon made it to the new century still holding the title.

Dixon took the fight to McGovern from the off but when the younger man slipped the champion’s left hand to land one of his tremendous blows to the kidney Dixon faded back to the ropes. He knew he was in for a tough night.

A frantic second saw both fighters giving and taking punishment, McGovern nearly going through the ropes from a left to the face from Dixon.

McGovern was staggered by Dixon in the third but never one for taking a backward step, Terry carried on relentlessly coming forward and landing heavy blows. By the fourth, Terry’s piledriving body shots were taking their toll and most of the punches thrown by Dixon were deftly evaded by the young challenger.

A left from McGovern in the seventh saw an explosion of blood from the nose of a rapidly weakening Dixon. The following round Dixon was helped to his feet by McGovern after slipping in his own claret.

But the sportsmanship didn’t last long as McGovern continued the onslaught. Knocked down again and again Dixon’s pride got him to his unsteady feet each time before the sponge was mercifully thrown in by O’Rourke.

McGovern held the title until November 1901 when he was stopped by Young Corbett II. Sadly, his mental health deteriorated and he spent his latter years in and out of sanatoriums.

On January 9th 1900 in New York’s Broadway Athletic Club, In retirement, Dixon’s lavish he was matched over 25 rounds lifestyle as well as philanthropy with Terry McGovern who had saw the $250,000 he amassed similarly wreaked havoc among during his career dwindle. the lower weight classes and When he died penniless in won the world bantamweight 1908 his former manager paid title. The stocky swarmer didn’t for his headstone which he care for carrying opponents. had inscribed with the words Placing substance over style, ‘Here lies George Dixon, the he walked through barrages gamest fighter who ever lived.’ to land punches ofwww.etsy.com/uk/shop/RyanTheDesignerArt his own.

Written By: Jim Marshall @BoxingTriviaGuy

Custom Artwork & Graphic Design w: www.ryanthedesigner.uk e: hello@ryanthedesigner.uk t: 07521 313 747 @ryan_the_designer

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