Big Write Hook - September 2017 Edition

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Parker

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Mayweather

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Unstoppable Force

SEPTEMBER 2017 EDITION

“I was sober three years, but I wasn’t living a sober life. I know guys who don’t take drugs for 20 years but they still don’t live a sober life. They’re bad, they’re manipulative, they’re not conscious of other people’s feelings. A sober lifestyle needs a sober consciousness.”

- Mike Tyson -

www.actiononaddiction.org.uk

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45 68 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26

Editor’s Letter Monthly Round Up

Review: Mayweather v McGregor WB super series - Cruiserweight

WB super series - Super Middle

Preview: Smith v Skoglund

12 Rounds With: Jake Ball

History Of Career - Canelo

history of career - Golovkin

Preview: Canelo v Golovkin

Preview: Fury v Parker

Golden Years

Poets’ Corner

If you would like to get involved with Big Write Hook, please get in touch via email or Twitter. bigwritehook@gmail.com twitter.com/BigWriteHook

ditor’s etter

Tyson Fury has again been ridiculed for his message of support to Sinead O’connor regarding mental illness.

Admittedly, it is a bizarre situation that the paths of these two people, the world heavyweight champion in hiatus and an almost forgotten 90’s pop icon, should ever cross. But hey, that is the power of social media. And to be totally honest, it is funny.

But therein likes the problem.

As fans we would rather laugh at an issue, than to discuss it constructively. Maybe it is our own coping mechanism to hide away from the brutality of our sport. Boxing has struggled to deal with the huge impact mental health has on fighters with neurologists suggesting 90% of boxers suffer head trauma and that brain injuries are inexplicably linked to depression. There is also a host other statistics to back-up up similar theories to this as well.

Carl Froch famously hired a sports psychologist before his rematch with George Groves, Ricky Hatton and Oscar De la Hoya have spoken about their battles with depression, Frank Bruno has talked about his challenges with bi-polar disorder and Mike Tyson has spoken openly about his drug, sex and alcohol addiction. Some fighters are no longer here to speak on their battles with mental illness: Dave Abberley, Bheki Moyo, Lewis Pinto and Dean Powell have all committed suicide because of their problems.

So why then, is an issue so serious and one that affects so many respected fighters, not talked about more openly? I am no expert, but in my uneducated opinion, it may be down to the male bravado of men who do not seek help because in a sport so merciless, we do not want to look weak. But it is the man or woman who admits when they need help, that is truly the strongest.

Unfortunately, people in such a dark state of mind are sometimes not able to see that, so it is our job to make it clear that they can.

Boxing is the toughest sport on the planet and thanks to the internet the global adulation of boxers is massive. But with greater highs, come much greater lows. No longer are boxers afforded the same luxury as those from years gone by; when criticism was limited to a few columns in the newspaper.

Now, if a boxer loses they receive a barrage of abuse every time they post on Twitter, with some fans taking great delight in being blocked by boxers who they have been goading.

These fighters are risking life and limb, not just now, but in later life. “Dementia pugilistica” is a scary phrase I came across some time ago, which provides evidence that boxers (pugilists) who suffer repetitive blows to the head end up with dementia.

One of the most heart wrenching mental issues to affect anyone.

Mo R

That is why, in the past four editions of Big Write Hook, I have made a conscious effort to shine a light on issues that are not openly talked about in the sport: depression, addiction and autism to name a few. Further editions will speak on stress, anxiety and more. These quotes stand pride of place on the inside cover. They are there to let you, the reader, know that if you are going through a difficult time, you may be able to take some solace in the fact that our heroes struggle with these things too.

As Fury said: “mental health problems are one of the worst things a person can have. And no matter how successful or rich you become, mental health will always bring you down.”

Ultimately, these quotes and these editorial excepts are here to say you are not alone. Whatever you’re going through. And maybe, on your good days, a Saturday fight night perhaps, you might just get 36 minutes of entertainment which takes your mind off things.

And hopefully, this magazine can do the same, whether you have mental health issues or not.

Lewis Calvert Editor Twitter: @LewCalvert91 Email: bigwritehook@gmail.com

onthly

Round Up..

Date: 05/08/2017 Miguel Marriaga v Vasyl Lomachenko (TKO 7)

Date:: 15/08/2017 Luis Nery (KO 4) v Shinsuke Yamanaka

Date:19/08/2017 Terence Crawford (KO 3) v Julius Indongo

Date: 26/08/2017 Miguel Cotto v Yoshihiro Kamegai

Vasyl Lomachenko swiftly brushed aside his latest conquest in Miguel Marriaga and almost instantly signed deal to fight another poundfor-pound superstar Guillermo Rigondeaux at 130 lbs. Hi-Tech was at his ever impressive best flashing around the ring, toying with his man in a jaw dropping display of ring mastery. His lighting quick hands, swift footwork and even his humorous taunting was too much for Marriaga. The latter was sent to the canvas twice and his corner was forced to pull their man out after seven rounds of ridicule. Loma defended his WBO Super featherweight strap and finally the Ukrainian is set to battle Rigo in one of the most highly anticipated fights for boxing purists on December 9th.

Drug cheat Luis Nery beat long standing champion Shinsuke Yamanaka for the WBC bantamweight title by fourth round KO only to fail a test for a performance enhancing substance. It is an awful situation which has stripped a belt from the Japanese champion who had defended it over 12 times. This means the fight could be changed to a no contest or the belt becomes vacant. In a sickening way to end a successful career, Yamanaka has stated that he will look to retire if he does not get the rematch with Nery or chance to fight for what would be the vacant belt.

The newly crowned and only undisputed world champion in boxing is Terence Crawford. Bud is light years ahead of anyone in the Super Lightweight division and is the first man in over a decade to become undisputed.

The victory came via a whipping body shot in the third round which crumpled the Namibian to the canvas and he failed to beat the count. Having cleared out the division, Crawford has already vacated his IBF title whilst he considers his next move, which could mean moving up into the 147 division for all American bashes with unified champion Keith Thurman or IBF champ Errol Spence and it will not be long before one of these three men become undisputed champion of the Welterweight division either.

Miguel Cotto is the new WBO Super Welterweight champion after putting on a 12 round clinic to beat Kamegai’s for the vacant belt.In what was a terrible mismatch from the start, the Puerto Rican legend was able to land several combinations of big shots. The sheer heaviness of the power punches almost twisted the head of Kamegai 360 degrees, but the underdog showed true grit and was able to stick out the full 12 rounds. Cotto carried the fight to a certain extent and didn’t press for the KO when he probably could have. The champion went on to call out the winner of Canelo v GGG, though that fight is unlikely to happen. However, the winner of the Liam Smith v Liam Williams rematch is likely to be mandatory challenger for the belt and either one of the younger fighters could announce themselves onto the world scene if they were to win that fight.

50 Mayweather v McGregor

Review

Written By: Lewis Calvert

Written By: @Lewcalvert91 Lewis Calvert @BigWriteHook @Lewcalvert91 @BigWriteHook Written By: Lewis Calvert @Lewcalvert91 @BigWriteHook

loyd Mayweather has broken Rocky Marciano’s unbeaten record with the tenth round stoppage of Connor McGregor on August 26 in Las Vegas to retire at 50-0.

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We all know what happened in the fight because we all watched it. Even those that said they wouldn’t watch it, will have seen the highlights at least. So analysing the 10 rounds seems rather frivolous.

McGregor came out fast, throwing wild bombs, backing up his bravado but lacking the skill or stamina to trouble the professional. Mayweather went on a scouting mission in the first two rounds, adjusted to the style, let the younger man blow himself out by walking him down with a high guard and from the sixth round to the tenth Floyd went to work. Easy work.

“Our game-plan was to take our time, let him shoot all his heavy shots early on and then take him down at the end, down the stretch” said Mayweather. And that is exactly what happened.

Somewhere between the opinion of the optimist and pessimist lies the truth of what happened on the night: a 40 year old man, but the greatest boxer of his generation, with around two years out of the ring, had a 10 round spar with a man who has never had a professional boxing match, but who has knocked out several people in mixed martial arts fights. It is what it is (to quote Tony Bellew).

“He was composed in there.

He switched it up with three different game plans and that’s what champions do.” said the Irishman.

Analysing the event as a whole is the more interesting thing here. In the aftermath of the most predictable fight in decades the “I told you so” brigade marches into UFC and casual town banging their drum and singing their song defiantly. Yes, the boxing world knew what was going to happen, but that doesn’t mean Mystic Mac doesn’t deserve any credit despite the loss.

McGregor was schooled. And schooled he should have been.

So internet memes and videos claiming he got schooled are as unfunny as they are uneducated. It was supposed to happen.

Congratulations to Mayweather for doing what we have come to expect from him.

The Notorious gave an entertaining fight and he should be thanked for that also. He put on a behan can be said for Manny Pacquiao (injury or not) when he fought Floyd, so he should be commended. The very idea of the fight seemed impossible at one point but it was made a reality because of the pulling power of the Notorious.

He will continue his fighting career and be all the richer for it.

Let’s put the farce of the WBC “Money” belt aside and ridiculous talks of a rematch in the Octagon and focus on the reality and positives. It brought great exposure to both boxing and MMA. It was

our time, let him shoot all his heavy shots early on

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Our game-plan was to take

an entertaining event and both sports have came off well, but now we can draw a line under Floyd’s great boxing career, and focus on the future of the sport without him.

The record breaking viewing figures suggest that the world stopped to watch McGregor’s baptism of fire but with that now over, there is a fighting void to be filled.

Step out from the media shadows Saul “Canelo” Alvarez and Gennady “GGG” Golovkin; the world is yours.

May light be shed upon their upcoming battle, which has so far been overshadowed with the morbid fascination of what has just passed.

Now it is up to one of these two men to carry the torch of boxing and on September 16 they will bring the real heat.

World Box World Super Se

Boxing Super Series: T H E he inaugural World Boxing Super Series is set to explode into life with eight back-to-back weekends of boxing. Since its inception the tournament has drawn huge critical acclaim with most people agreeing that the tournament sees the best fighting, the best, with plenty of belts on the line. TV rights are yet to be decided, some fight dates and venues are still being finalised, but what we do know is the winner will be packed with action and crown the legitimate man to beat in each of the chosen divisions.

So without further ado, let’s get the ball rolling on the first ever World Boxing Super Series Cruiserweight Tournament...

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C R U I S E R

Oleksandr Usyk v Marco Huck for WBO Cruiserweight title - 9/9/17 (Berlin) This could well be a demolition job. Careers in opposite trajectory, rising star Usyk will have the task of breaking down old German stalwart Marco Huck. Huck, never the most active throughout a three-minute period, will really struggle against much younger and busier fighter.

Usyk moves beautifully for a bigger man and has sneaky tactics that seem to be insider tricks-of-the-trade from the Ukrainian amateur scene.

Whether it’s that 90° pivot and assault to the body or the flicking down of a guarding hand in order to create space

and launch in a massive hook - Usyk seemingly has it all.

Prediction: I reckon big Oleksandr finishes off a game, but gun-shy and past his best Marco Huck in either the 9th or 10th round.

Yunier Dorticos v Dmitry Kudryashov for WBA Cruiserweight title 23/9/17 (Texas) Dorticos is a bit of a mystery for me. I’ve seen clips here and there, but it always alarms me when my reaction to hearing a World champion’s name is, ‘Are you sure he’s a World champion?’. Take nothing away from him; he’s Cuban and in the

boxing game, as with cigars, that’s usually all you need to know. Krudryashov is the scariest man in the draw. If not the world. His face. His beard.

His thudding, terrifying punches.

I think he’s the one to watch and will provide most excitement as the tournament progresses.

One thing he must be careful to avoid is the lateral movement of Dorticos, as this would negate his heavy punches and he’d struggle to really connect.

Prediction: Krudryashov by stoppage in the middle rounds. For two reasons; he is terrifying and I don’t know enough about Dorticos to stake my reputation on it.

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Mairis Breidis v Mike Perez for WBC Cruiserweight title 30/9/17 (Riga) Mairis Breidis has really flipped the script on it’s head. In boxing, a Latvian is generally a journeyman with decent knowledge in the ring but never exceptional ability. Breidis represents a true World level champion and he has shown in his last two fights that he can bang or think. For me, thinking is his best bet here. Who really knows about Mike Perez? He’s had one fight as a Cruiserweight and with all due respect fought nobody worth a World title shot. But, this is the beauty of the contest. Perez is heavy handed and tough. He could

cause Breidis problems early on but I think there are too many question-marks around his fitness and making the weight.

Prediction: I’ll take Breidis on points. I think he will have to overcome an early onslaught from Perez but will dominate the mid-to-late rounds.

Murat Gassiev v Kyrzsztof Wlodzarczyk for the IBF cruiserweight title (Venue/ Date TBC)

Russian monster Murat Gassiev is one of the youngest World champions in boxing at only twenty-three. He fought with maturity beyond his years defeating Denis

Lebedev recently and would have to be considered an enormous favourite in this bout. Wlodzarczyk on the other hand, cannot be completely ruled out. Fifty-three wins from fifty-seven contests tells its own story. No-one can have that many ‘gimme’ victories and he was a World champion remember. He will come to put it all on the line, but may fall short.

Prediction: Too many miles on the clock. A very real issue with boxers fighting late into their thirties. I fancy Gassiev to beat Wlodzarczyk around the seventh or eighth round. Perhaps with volume combinations forcing a referee’s stoppage.

Written By: Craig Scott @@Fight_Talk1

R W E I G H T S

World Box World Super Se

Boxing Super Series:

THE SUPER MIDD our British fighters are in the running to win the Super Middleweight Word Boxing Super Series. The similar Super Six tournament which preceded it some years before brought with it such great prestige it made Carl Froch a household name and eventual winner Andre Ward a future Hall of Fame star. Now, four of our very own have that chance. Some are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them. That is the very epitome of this tournament.

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George Groves v Jamie Cox fow WBA Super Middleweight title – 14/10/17 (London)

Top seed in the tournament Groves laid down the psychological gauntlet and picked Cox from four other available opponents, so Groves clearly sees him as the weakest link. Cox is unbeaten at 24-0 but he has not been very active in the last two years due to a legal dispute which saw him serve jail time over the alleged assault of an an ex-girlfriend, but the conviction was later overturned. Though that incident will be a constant blot on his once promising career, he will see this as the perfect platform to get his name back out there on the world stage.

Prediction: Groves will use

his range and physicality to dominate the fight and win on points. Cox is a bit of an unknown at this level, but does have enough talent to cause a shock if Groves gasses late on like he has done in the past.

Chris Eubank Jr v Avni Yildrim 07/10/2017 – (Stuttgart) Eubank picked Yildrim as a the closest fit to his most recent conquest Arthur Abraham and that counts for a lot. Junior is yet to back up all the talking he has done calling out other boxers without beating any credible fighter himself. His showing in this tournament could well define his career. There is no cherry

picking or pulling out in the later stages of this tournament, so it will be interesting to see how that unfolds. The unbeaten Turk has a slightly padded CV and doesn’t come with much knock-out power, so doesn’t pose too much of a threat.

Prediction: I expect the Brit’s busier output to be enough to get the stoppage. Yildrim is not as tough as Abraham, not many men are, so I think there will be a TKO after an accumulation of punches in the latter third of the fight.

Callum Smith v Erik Skoglund 16/09/2017 - (Liverpool)

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DLEWEIGHTS Bookies favourite Smith has been ticking over for the last two years awaiting a world title shot that never came. His promising career has stagnated through no fault of his own, fights with James DeGale, Badou Jack and Anthony Dirrell all failed to materialise. Smith just wants to get back fighting and he seems like the type of fighter who raises his game when taking on better opposition.

He will have to be on top form against the formidable warrior Skogland, who has been used to fighting at light heavyweight for his past few fights so making the weight for both men will be intriguing, but as and when they do, this could be an all out war.

tPrediction: Our chief Cruiserweight correspondent Craig Scott is adamant that Skogland will get the win, but I will always back a fighter from Liverpool. I’m going with the Scouse power of Smith to do a demolition job on his man in the first four rounds of explosive action.

Jurgen Brahmer v Rob Brant (Date/Venue TBC)

Old horse Brahmer is a multiple world champion but was beaten in his last outing as a light heavyweight by the recently retired Nathan Cleverly. He was outworked over six rounds, though up on

the scorecards, but he did have home advantage and has only ever fought outside of Germany once. He retired on his stool citing an elbow injury then and will hope his body doesn’t catch up with him now. At 38, he has experience, but does he still have the energy in this young man’s game? Little is known about Brandt’s potential at just 26, the unbeaten American is confident but is yet to be tested in his 22 wins against domestic fighters and they have been at Middleweight, not 168 lbs.

Prediction: I expect the old man to come through this one if his body holds up. Brandt seems quite basic and will

struggle in the later half of the fight when experience and energy management are vital.

Written By: Lewis Calvert

@Lewcalvert91 @BigWriteHook

@Longcountboxing

Written By: Liam Lawler

SEPTEMBER 16

@Longcountboxing

Written By: Liam Lawler

Callum Smith will begin his journey for domestic and international acclaim when he takes on Erik Skoglund in the highly anticipated World Boxing Super Series on September 16 in Liverpool.

For a myriad of reasons, varying in validity and fairness, the Smith brothers have not always endeared themselves to boxing’s often capricious and unforgiving fan base.

Eldest brother Paul, as a result of his abrasive social media attitude and uncanny ability to land questionable title shots, remains one of the most polarizing figures on the British scene. Liam, with his sneering in-ring expression and perceived penchant for using his head has also eluded universal appreciation for his efforts. Stephen, conversely, has perhaps suffered the

the greatest chance to impress these resolute followers, as well as the wealth of new devotees which the recent boom in British boxing has amassed.

The much respected knockout tournament has opted for a talented pool of super middleweights and is a crucial opportunity for fame and fortune which Callum undoubtedly wishes to capitalise on with both fists.

As the second seed, behind only WBA ‘Super’ Champion, George Groves - who chose to face Jamie Cox in the opening round - Smith was left with a choice of three opponents.

These were Turkey’s powerful Avni Yildirim, American mystery man Rob Brant and Sweden’s all-rounder Erik Skoglund. He chose the latter: “…I just think, stylistically, Erik’s

In many ways, the two also share similar styles; both mix well to head and body, showing a reasonable punch variety and an aggressive approach, throwing in combinations to try and overwhelm their opponents. In his favour, Erik likely has more mobility to go with his edge in experience.

Nevertheless, Smith and his trainer Joe Gallagher have unquestionably put consideration into their decision. They must hope that Skoglund’s sometimes lax defence, and most importantly, his lack of punching force, are the perfect combination to capitalise on when faced with Smith’s much vaunted power.

Assuming the Swede does not find himself drained at the weight, the fight should be far more competitive than the odds are suggesting. In front of his home fans in Liverpool’s

Callum, has the greatest chance to impress these resolute followers, as well as the wealth of new devotees which the recent boom in British boxing has amassed regrettable fate which still plagues the smaller fighter: that unless they are an exceptional, c aptivating talent, they make only a blip on the average fan’s radar.

Despite Paul’s presence as a respectable pundit, Liam’s clear fighting spirit and Stephen’s game title challenges, a substantial contingent of boxing enthusiasts have remained unmoved in their ambivalence or sheer aversion, to this fighting family.

It seems fitting then, that the youngest and freshest of the four, 27 year-old Callum, has

the best fight for me,” Smith told draft host Melanie Winiger.

But Skoglund, who some may be surprised to learn is the younger man at just 26 years old, is a bemusing choice. It could be forgiven to think that the untested Brant, who has spent much of his career at middleweight, or the squat Yildirim, who is somewhat dwarfed by the rangy Smith, would have been more obvious picks. Skoglund, who comes into the fight with an impressive record, 26(12)-0-0, has come down from light-heavyweight so Callum’s usual size advantage will be relatively diminished.

Echo Arena, however, Callum will most likely look to stop Skoglund in the second half of the fight, adding to his impressive 22(17)-0-0 ledger.

With every victory, it is Callum who looks to be the real talent of the four Smith brothers and should he go on to win the coveted Muhammad Ali Trophy then the fans who are so reluctant to permit the record breaking brothers any praise or respect, may well be forced to make an exception. The quest to become the family’s most prized jewel starts now.

SMiTh:22 (17) -0-0 SkoGLUnd:26(12)-0-0

12

12 Rounds wit

… Jake Ball

1. Who is your favourite all time boxer?

It has to be either Muhammad Ali or Sugar Ray Leonard. It is too hard to pick between them.

2. Who is your favourite active boxer?

Floyd Money Mayweather

3. Without naming names, have you got any examples of “politics in boxing”?

In my opinion some world champions certainly don’t get the plaudits and respect that they truly deserve.

8. Who is the hottest UK prospect?

I’m going to have to say myself... obviously haha.

4. What is the key to beating Joe Sherriff in your next fight?

I will just keep doing what I do best. Skills pay the bills after all.

9. How important is it to remain undefeated?

To be honest, I’ve learnt far more from my one loss than I have from all of my nine wins up to now. So I don’t think it is all that important. As long as you develop as a fighter, then it’s all good.

5. What is the greatest fight of all time?

There are too many to pick from, but the Arturo Gatti v Micky Ward trilogy or Leonard v Marvin Hagler are certainly up there.

10. What is the hardest thing about boxing?

It has to be the training.

11. Which two fighters from any era would be your dream fight?

Muhammad Ali versus a prime Mike Tyson

6. Who do you think will win Canelo or Golovkin?

I’m backing Canelo.

7. What are your thoughts on the World Boxing Super Series?

It’s different. I think it’s great for boxing and for all the fighters involved.

12. What do you want your lasting legacy to be?

In Michael Buffer’s voice: “and the new... unified champion of the world... Jake Ball!”

JakeBal

2

www.dianespartydelights.co.uk instagram.com/dianespartydelights facebook.com/dianespartydelights.co.uk etsy.com/uk/shop/dianespartydelights

A Brie Histor in Tim exico is known as one of the finest boxing nations to ever have existed in the history of our sport. From great fighters such as Julio Chavez Sr and Juan Manuel Marquez, to the newest future Hall of Famer, the three-time World Champion, Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez.

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The man who is highly regarded as one of the greatest pound for pound fighters on the planet, is about to lace up against unified Middleweight king Gennady Golovkin on September 16th. From humble 16

@BigWriteHook

beginnings, to the biggest PPV star on the planet, how did it all go so right for Canelo?

Born in the City of Guadalajara in July 1990, later growing up on a farm in Jalisco Saul Alvarez is the youngest of eight children, seven of them boys. Nicknamed ‘Canelo’, the Spanish word for Cinnamon which was given to him by his family for his unusual red hair. A name that has stuck long throughout his career. All of Canelo’s seven brothers had turned professional in boxing, there was surely only one route he could follow as he grew up. @Ryan_Designer

Canelo first stepped into the ring age thirteen and it wasn’t long before people took notice. Within two years he had won the Junior Mexican Boxing Championships, and he soon turned professional, finishing his amateur record at 44-2 and having his first paid bout at the age of fifteen. That may seem like a tender age for most, but this is Mexico, a country built on fighting pride.

In the first three years of Canelo’s career he was kept very busy, fighting twenty-four times, at the age of eighteen he had a

record of 23-1-0. At this age, most fighters haven’t even had their debuts yet. He was way ahead of the curve and the talent was obvious. He went on to sign with Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions in 2010.

As he beat down opponent after opponent, he worked his way up in the world ranks nearing a title shot. When that day finally came, he grabbed it with both hands.

In March 2011 Canelo took on British fighter Matthew Hatton for the vacant WBC Super Welterweight title. The bout took place in California

Saul

Canelo Alvarez Written By: Canvas Boxing @CanvasBoxing

and was easy work for the Mexican who took the win over twelve rounds by unanimous decision. His time had come at just twenty-one-year-old.

Across the next few years Canelo added some great victories onto his record, beating Shane Mosley and Austin trout.

This perked up the attention of one fighter who was always ready to fight the best. The one and only, Floyd Mayweather Jr. By far this would be the toughest test to date for Canelo and in September 2013 they stepped into the squared circle together.

Floyd was at his best that night, ducking and diving making the Mexican miss and even hit the ropes on one occasion, which was mocked by TBE in the ring. Mayweather won a majority decision, with Canelo being given a controversial draw on one card. This may have been Canelo’s first and only loss to date, but it was the fight he needed to become the PPV star he is today.

The Floyd fight brought Canelo to the masses, he was already a hero in his own nation, but now he had gained global

superstardom. This made him a big money fighter and attracted more big names to his record such as: Erislandy Lara, Miguel Cotto, Amir Khan and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr, were all dismantled in the ring, making him a threetime champion in the process.

It is now though, in 2017, where Canelo’s biggest test is, even bigger than Mayweather.

Gennady Golovkin is one of the biggest punchers in Middleweight history and currently holds the WBA, WBC and IBF straps. This fight is a rarity, (Ward v Kovalev excluded) @BigWriteHook

because two genuine poundfor-pound superstars are willing to put everything on the line at the peak of their ability.

This will be Canelo’s 52nd professional appearance in the ring, that’s a huge amount of experience for a twentyseven-year-old. Las Vegas is the destination and though the fight may be seen as a 50/50 gamble, Canelo’s legacy as one of the greatest Mexican fighters of this generation is safe bet.

@Ryan_Designer

17

Written By: Hannah Lines @lineshannah87

A Brie Histor in Tim

Gol

lovkin ennady Golovkin is set to meet Saul Canelo Alvarez, for the WBC, IBF and IBO World Middleweight Title and the WBA World Super Middleweight title on September 16th .

G

Some would argue that Golovkin’s fight with Canelo will be his hardest bout to date, but “GGG”’s rise to this calibre was far from good fortune. This is a man who has fought hard to climb the ranks and will always be remembered as a true contender in years to come.

Epilogue

In Gennady’s eleven years as a professional boxer (370,33KOs), determination and skill have been a driving force to his success. Unbeaten in 37 fights, he has claimed 33 of them by KO – an outstanding 89% KO rate. Previously, he had also established himself as a formidable fighter in his amateur career, having become the Middleweight Silver Medallist at the Olympics in Greece – 2004

and multiple Gold, silver and bronze medals for competing in championships around the world between 2000 and 2005.

Kazakhstan native Golovkin made his début into professional boxing on the 6th of May 2006 at 24 years of age, fighting Gabor Balogh from Hungary – who at the time of the bout was 1-22-3.

Gennady won by KO in the first round that night and over the next three years, went on to fight a further 15 opponents of a progressively similar level to himself, building on his stamina and technique before being given his first opportunity at a scheduled twelve round bout.

His first twelve-rounder was with John Anderson Carvalho (at the time 19-3-1) from Brazil.

The two met at the Nuerburgring Race Track, in Nuerburg, Germany, for the vacant WBO Inter-Continental Middleweight Title. Golovkin was victorious in this, his seventeenth

My intrigue with Gennady started many years ago, but my first experience of witnessing him live was a mere eleven months ago, when my partner and I bought tickets to see Brook vs. Golovkin at the O2 last September.

I already had a deep set love for “The Sweet Science”, but after that night last year, my thoughts changed on how I was viewing the sport. As a writer, avid fan and meticulous scrutiniser of the game - watching it from the comfort of your sofa makes it easier to pick up on the triumphant traits of a contender or the slight mistake he/she made in that crucial round.

So when it was announced that “GGG” would be fighting in the UK, I had my heart set on this being my first experience of a live event. We weren’t that quick to obtain tickets as we aren’t the wealthiest of spectators by any means, but we soon realised, the longer we deliberated, the more expensive it would be and

professional fight, winning

by KO in the second round and taking home his first title.

He has gone on to fight a further 19 scheduled twelve round bouts, all of which were early finishes, except one. His last fight against Daniel Jacobs (322,29KOs) went the distance and ended with a unanimous decision in Golovkin’s favour, however, a lot of people were surprised at the outcome.

It was thought by most that Gennady was favourite to win, but as the fight unfolded, spectators didn’t see his usual class of style and attack. From this, many are convinced that “GGG’s” weaknesses may have finally been exposed – leaving him vulnerable for his oncoming fight.

Golovkin’s past opponents, although highly regarded and well established in their own divisions, may not have given the experience that he needs to beat his next opponent,

we just HAD to see this fight!

We ended up getting seats in the higher realm of one of the lower tiers for a ridiculous amount of money, but we were happy nevertheless. As parents of two small children, this was our first indulgence since we had our first born so we enjoyed absolutely every minute of it.

After relishing in the amazing undercard, the time came for the main event. I remember being completely shocked by the crowd around me as Golovkin made his ring walk.

Whether patriotism sets in because of the need to see your fellow Brit win or it’s all part of the banter and almost pantomime heckling at a lot events – I couldn’t believe that a man of such well-established skill and achievement, could be welcomed into the ring with such loathing and disregard.

As much as I am a huge supporter of all British boxers, I was always rooting for Gennady

Canelo

(49-1-1,34KOs).

My admiration for Golovkin lies, not only in his ability as a formidable fighter, but continual respect for the sport as a whole - as well as each and every opponent he has faced. However, it saddens me to admit that the fight with Canelo does not look to be in his favour. The Guadalajara is eight years the champion’s junior but has had an extensive amount of experience with worthy opponents, which that outweighs that of Gennady’s,. when comparing their time in the ring as professionals.

With all due respect to Canelo - my hope is that Golovkin retains his titles, however, the reality of what he is facing come September 16th, tells me that Saul Alvarez will prevail, in what I predict will be stoppage in the last quarter of this highly anticipated fight.

to win. Many fans of Brook claim that he was ahead in the earlier rounds, which, on paper would appear so. However, the strategic plan that Golovkin puts in place, to decipher his opponents’ technique and weaknesses, was prevalent on that night, as it has been for many of his other fights.

As we are all aware, Kell’s team threw the towel in within the second minute of the fifth round and Golovkin retained his unbeaten record beating the man from Sheffield.

Golovkin’s fight with Brook will always hold a special place in my heart as a boxing enthusiast as it opened my eyes to the sport as a whole, watching a live event is a completely different experience and both have their pros and cons. So if anybody has two free ticket to his next fight, do let me know...

@BigWriteHook

@Lewcalvert91

Written By: Lewis Calvert

o

The fight takes place on September 16 and is the personification of a paradox which has occupied the minds of philosophers for years.

Though this is a fight for the ages, it has been overshadowed by the optical illusion that was the Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor “fight”.

Obviously, the prerequisite that Canelo is unstoppable has been slightly marred by Mayweather who beat the raw, but talented young fighter on points back in 2013. However, Money did not stop him in terms of a knockout, nor have the other 48 men who have came, saw and be conquered by the Mexican: Miguel Cotto, Austin Trout and Shane Mosley some of his notable wins within that list.

Golovkin too, has seen his incredible 23 fight KO streak come to an end of by the resolute Daniel Jacobs in his last outing. Although, GGG did score a knocked down and win on points, somewhat dubiously, there are suggestions that he may be slowing down now that he is 35 years old. Yet at 37-0, he remains immovable.

Canelo is a come forward

Golovkin is underrated in this sense. Though he has taken some punishment in his previous fights, you get the impression that it is all part of the plan. Not only does he absorb punched with his chin tucked and counter with his own lethal shots, it deceives future opponents that he is easy to hit. We will see GGG’s A-game when he takes on the Golden Boy’s cash cow.

Canelo is not as open as GGG and seems to have the edge when it comes to head movement and ring craft, but many people expect this fight to become a war and it could turn out to be the most technical and powerful slug-fest we have ever witnessed.

If it is the 50/50 shoot-out many people suggest, then Canelo does not wish to entertain the concept of “luck”.

“Luck is for the mediocre” he told fans when the fight was announced.

GGG is somewhat lucky to get the fight. When

Canelo vacated the WBC middlewight belt in order to avoid avoid a mandetory fight with Golovkin, it seemed as though the bout between the two biggest draws in boxing would never come to fruition. A few money fights later and now the clash to rule the division and pound for pound rankings is upon us.

“Everybody understands that my fight with Canelo is a true fight. It is a boxing fight. It is about respect and sport.”

It is almost everything the Mayweather and McGregor fight wasn’t: respectful and competitive, for manly pride and sporting legacy.

If the unstoppable/ immovable paradox is usually reserved for superheroes then it seems Captain Mexico has spent the last four years solidifying his defensive shield, whilst Golovkin has continued to smash through his opponents as though his fists carry the power of Thor’s hammer. So grab your popcorn and marvel at one of the greatest spectacles in boxing. There can only be one hero.

Sept mber 16 September 16

The age old cliché of “styles make fights” rings true when you look back at the previous events these two men have been involved in; most of which have been billed as some derivative of “speed versus power” or “boxer versus puncher”. In this case, it seems to be far more simple: power versus power.

fighter whose unrelenting pressure overwhelms his opposition. Similarly, the Kazakh has often said that he has a “Mexican fighting style”. That could be seen a marketing ploy to gain to gain popularity from Western fans, but it is true; Golovkin never takes a step backwards either.

Which has led many to believe that although these fighters may be matched in there offensive skill, it is their defensive attributes that could edge the fight.

Everybody understands that my fight with Canelo is a true fight.

W

n A L

o e

When Saul Canelo Alvarez meets Gennady Golovkin the world will find out what happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object.

ury’s oad o ad oney Written By: Lewis Calvert

@BigWriteHook Written By: Lewis Calvert

@Lewcalvert91 @BigWriteHook

@BigWriteHook

@Lewcalvert91

@Lewcalvert91

Written By: @Lewcalvert91 Lewis Calvert Written By: @BigWriteHook Lewis Calvert Written By: @Lewcalvert91 Lewis Calvert @Lewcalvert91 @BigWriteHook @Lewcalvert91 Written By: @BigWriteHook Lewis Calvert @BigWriteHook

Written By: Lewis Calvert

SEPTEMBER 23

FURY’S ROAD TO MAD MONEY

H

The original fight was scheduled take place in Auckland on May 6, but that was canceled due to an apparent back injury to Fury, though other rumours have circulated the internet: from claims he was being drug tested to a lack of ticket sales on the Kiwi’s part. But now the champion only has one focus: “I have put a massive target on Hughie’s head.”

Away from the conspiracies, we must take the fight for what it is. It is a good battle between two young, talented and undefeated fighters: 23-0 for Parker, 20-0 for Fury. Though neither man has a huge scalp on their unblemished records.

Fury has been matched against tough opposition in his short career, his best win coming against Fred Kassi, who many believe should have got a decision win over former Anthony Joshua foe Dominic Breazeale. If not for a deep wound to his eyebrow in the Kassi fight, Fury would have took the match on points, rather than the uninspiring technical decision he got. A couple of tune-up fights later and Fury finds himself in mandatory position for the world strap and is not without confidence: “I’ve never had a close fight.

I’ve won every round of every single fight. I’m going to let my fists do the talking and I’m going to take his belt home with me.”

Parker, the head hunter, probably has the better resume, with notable wins over a strong Carlos Takam and the deceptively talented Andy Ruiz Jr. So goes into the fight as the favourite. However, Fury claims to have consistently boxed within himself due to a skin condition he suffers from.

That issue has since been rectified thanks to a new medication, so the fight should be more competitive than the bookies have it.

You can also not discredit the influence of the high quality sparring Hughie has had in his lifetime with one of the best heavyweights in the world, including his cousin Tyson. He has also been training with Olympic talent Joe Joyce in the run up to this fight too.

could make for an entertaining bout. And at such a young age, it could be the start of a few grudge matches between the pair as both are expected to be major contenders in game over the next few years.

This may not be the biggest heavyweight contest in the world, but the options for the winner are extremely lucrative. It is hard for New Zealanders to make money in boxing on a global scale like the Brits or Americans, so it is little wonder why Parker’s team met up with Eddie Hearn whilst in London.

They are not looking past Fury, but they are planning big money fights should their man win. Tony Bellew then will be watching with a keen eye. Fury too, is rumoured to have lined up David Haye for his first defence in yet another big money fight. And so it is a fight that has more intrigue regarding the winner’s next fight, than the current fight itself.

“I have put a massive target on Hughie’s head.”

Arker v fUr

ughie Fury will attempt to become the second member of his family to be crowned world h e av y we i g ht champion when he takes on Joseph Parker for the WBO belt on September 23 in Manchester.

Parker has a very open style, unloading from side to side, but leaving himself open for a more canny fighter. Parker is very quick to let his hands go too when he smells blood and has a habbit of finishing men of when he gets them hurt. His team may also be thinking that they an not risk a decision away from home, so may be on the lookout for a knockout. Fury though has an underrated defence and has an astute trainer in father Peter who knows the sport inside out and even masterminded the game plan behind beating Wladimir Klitschko.

Fury, 23, and Parker, 26, are both still young in the game and have fought less than 200 rounds professionally between them. They are still a bit raw and wild at times, as you would expect, but that

The gravitas attached to the Fury name is no doubt because of the success of Hughie’s cousin, Tyson, whose brilliant achievement beating Klitschko in Germany saw the heavyweight division blown wide open. Hughie then will be hoping to get the belt back in the family; an added incentive if indeed he needed one or an added pressure perhaps.

A win against Parker could be the start of a Fury’s road to greatness, as he will announce his own name to the boxing world: “Hughie. My name is Hughie. That’s my name.”

1923 In 1921 a young man walked into the US consulate in Buenos Aires asking for a visa.

“Name?” asked the vice-consul.

“Luis Angel Firpo,” replied the man.

“Reason for visit?”

“I’m going to get a fight with Jack Dempsey.”

“Think you can lick him?”

Golden Years

“That’s what I’m going for.”

After jotting down ‘Training for boxing’ in his book, the official made a note in the margin.

‘Says he can lick Dempsey – Vamos a ver!’ (We’ll see).

Less than two years later in September 1923, after 12 straight wins including 11 stoppages, Firpo ‘The Wild Bull of the Pampas’ fixed his stare on the heavyweight champion across the ring like a predator sizing up its prey.

Despite the Argentine’s confidence, Dempsey was heavy favourite. Firpo had the size advantage and a sledgehammer right but lacked finesse and was afforded just a puncher’s chance by the derisory press. Legendary lightweight Benny Leonard compared the fight to a race between the thoroughbred Zev and an army mule.

first round. But he kept getting up and with that clubbing right hand smashed the champion through the ropes and into the row of press at ringside who tossed him back in the ring.

Debate raged afterwards on whether Jack would have made it under his own steam but he clung on and survived one of the greatest rounds in boxing history. Neither man let up as the second round commenced in front of a crowd in raptures.

Jack wanted to finish things fast and with another short hook and a right to the jaw, Firpo was floored once more. Sheer willpower got the bloodied challenger to his shaky legs but the relentless Dempsey attacked again and a right to the jaw dropped the South American for a ninth time. This time he couldn’t beat the count.

Four of the wildest minutes in pugilistic history had eclipsed Dempsey’s 1919 three round title-winning mauling of Jess Willard for ferocity and was also the shortest heavyweight title bout since 1907. When asked about the brief but brutal battle, Dempsey said “I won as I thought I would, but I can truthfully say that I never had such a fight in my life…I saw eight million stars when I got that punch on the chin that knocked me out of the ring.”

A stunned Firpo sat in his dressing room trying to comprehend what had just happened, eventually saying, “I did the best I could.

Dempsey was the better man.”

As the bell rang, over 85,000 spectators at New York’s Polo Grounds saw the two men rush at each other. Dempsey missed a huge left, slipped and Firpo fought on until 1936 then bundled Firpo into the ropes. became a car salesman and Recovering, Dempsey threw a rancher. Dempsey was toppled right to the body and a left to the from the heavyweight throne jaw, sending the challenger to by Gene Tunney in 1926 and the canvas. Up at three ‘The Bull’ hung up his gloves after losing saw red and flew at Dempsey the rematch the following with everything he had but year. In retirement, Dempsey Jack’s lightning speed saw him and Firpo jointly managed landing body punches from heavyweight and Firpo’s fellow every angle and thewww.etsy.com/uk/shop/RyanTheDesignerArt Argentine countryman Abel Cestac. floored a further SIX times in the 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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poet

The Boxer A tear rolls down a swollen cheek, Eyes are blue where violence wreaked, The sob of tortured life wracks body and mind, As that blow slows time, Red blood spots bare skin and canvas, A world spinning in coloured blackness, As mind drifts to a place of comfort, The other raises fists triumphant, The crowd hollers in jubilance, Worry not for me just call that ambulance.

Written By: Mark Donnelly hellopoetry.com/mark-donnelly https://hellopoetry.com/poem/1957042/the-boxer/

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corner poets’

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Big Write Hook Contacts: Editor & Writer: Lewis Calvert Twitter: @LewCalvert91 Email: bigwritehook@gmail.com Design & Layout: Ryan James Wilson Twitter: @Ryan_Designer Website: www.ryanthedesigner.uk Writer: On The Canvas Twitter: @CanvasBoxing Website: onthecanvasboxing.wordpress.com Chief Historian: Jim Marshall Twitter: @BoxingTriviaGuy Writer: Liam Lawer Twitter: @longcountboxing Writer: Hannah Lines Twitter: @lineshannah87

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