Kermit Cintron Interview: Accepts George Sosa WBO Super Welterweight Belt Challenge

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

In a Real Combat Media International interview exclusive, former world welterweight champion Kermit Cintron, training for a comeback bout at 154 pounds, has accepted a WBO challenge from Pennsylvania matchmaker Mike Melendez and his fighter George Sosa. The bout, which could be held in October 2017, would be for the vacant World Boxing Organization International Super Welterweight title.

Cintron, 39-6-3 with 30 knockouts, Reading, Pennsylvania, hopes he and promoter Marshall Kauffman can gain a WBO top 15 world ranking with the win and earn a Puerto Rican versus Puerto Rican WBO World Junior Middleweight title shot against Miguel Cotto. On Saturday night, Cotto won a unanimous 12 round decision over Yoshihiro Kamegai and the vacant World Boxing Organization World Junior Middleweight title. Cotto had been ranked number one by the WBO at 154 pounds. As everyone will move up one spot in next month’s ratings, the number 15 rating position is available at 154 pounds.

Sosa, 15-10 with 15 knockouts, is a New Jersey scrapper who went 10 rounds against Thomas LaManna in a battle for the vacant WBC Latino Welterweight title in Atlantic City on August 19, 2017. That performance certainly qualifies him for a 10 rounder with Cintron, if promoter Marshall Kauffman can put the bout together.

Robert Brizel: “Kermit, how do you feel?”

Kermit Cintron: “Right now, I’m just taking time to regroup., lifting heavy weights, building myself up naturally to a natural 154-pound fighter.”

Robert Brizel: “In your last bout, you had Tyrone Brunson down twice in the fourth round. But you didn’t finish him. Why?”

Kermit Cintron: “I was trying to finish him. He was saved by the bell (at the end of the fourth round).”

Robert Brizel: “In round five, what went wrong?”

Kermit Cintron: “I went for the kill. I had him. I left myself open, and I got caught.  That’s what happens when you are a stupid puncher in the ring.”

Robert Brizel: “Can you win a rematch with Brunson if you fight smarter the next time?”

Kermit Cintron: “Absolutely. I’ve asked for the rematch.”

Robert Brizel: “Will you get it?”

Kermit Cintron: “I doubt it.”

Robert Brizel: “Do you want to fight David Grayton again?”

Kermit Cintron: “No point to it. I had him frustrated from the first round on. I tried to set him up with the right hand, and he kept coming in with his head. He cut me over both of my eyes with head butts. My right eye (had a bad cut over it and) had to get 10 stitches. The ringside doctor stopped the fight due to Grayton’s ‘accidental’ butts (causing the bout to go to the scorecards, creating a Technical draw).”

Robert Brizel: “Pennsylvania matchmaker Mike Melendez and his 15-10 New Jersey fighter George Sosa are calling you out for a WBO International vacant super welterweight 10 round title bout this fall. Sosa just fought a 10 round WBC regional belt fight in Atlantic City with Thomas LaManna. Do you accept the challenge at 154 pounds?”

Kermit Cintron: Absolutely!”

Robert Brizel: So you are done fighting at 147 pounds?”

Kermit Cintron: “That’s correct, unless the money and the opportunity is there. I have no problems going back down in weight to 147 pounds.”

Robert Brizel: “Have you ever turned down a challenge? Mike Melendez and George Sosa are calling you out at 154 pounds for a WBO regional bout.”

Kermit Cintron: “We can make it happen. I’m confident my promoter, Marshall Kauffman, can put it together. I will be ready (to fight again) by October. I probably will watch videos of Sosa. I need to go back to what I was doing in the first four rounds of my bout with Tyrone Brunson, and listen to what my trainer, Joe Pastore, was telling me to do.”

Robert Brizel: What was your fight like with Paul Williams?”

Kermit Cintron: “I was beating the shit out of him. It wasn’t even a hard fight. I was winning every round, until the incident. I fell out of the ring! When I hurt him, we got too close, so he bent down. I put pressure on him with my forearm with a lot of weight. He fell down, and with the momentum of me weighing him down, I couldn’t keep my balance, and I fell out of the ring. I had a monitor on my back, and that was the only thing that was wrong with me. I think promoter Al Haymon had the ringside doctor in his hip pocket. I had a guaranteed rematch if I had won. I wanted to get back into the ring. Paul Williams is a good guy. (After his motorcycle accident) I wish him the best I ran into his ex-trainer George Peterson, who trained my opponent David Grayton.”

Robert Brizel: “Where do you think your next fight will be held, 2300 Arena or Santander Arena?”

Kermit Cintron: “Wherever Marshall decides my next fight will be held is fine with me. It doesn’t really matter where. Personally, I like the Sands Casino in Bethlehem. I’m still in the game to get one more world title shot. Not just to get it, but to win it. That’s my goal right now. I’m still boxing but I’m not getting the opportunities. I liked the Brunson fight because he was willing to fight me. I was undefeated in eight consecutive bouts, and not once did I get a ranked fighter. Jack Culcay was mentioned for this September in California, but the bout was never signed. Mentally, September is fine for me. October is fine if George Sosa wants to fight me.”

Robert Brizel: “What did your trainer Joe say you did wrong with Tyrone Brunson?”

Kermit Cintron: “I didn’t listen to my trainer in the corner. He said just keep doing what you are doing. Instead I went in for the kill, and opened myself to shots. We just have to stay behind the jab. Everything will work behind the jab, always.”

Robert Brizel: “Do you still hope to get a fight with Miguel Cotto or Amir Khan?”

Kermit Cintron: “Miguel Cotto versus Kermit Cintron is a fight which should have happened a long time ago. Why not make it happen now? He wants one more fight in December. Why not make Kermit Cintron versus Amir Khan? Cintron versus Cotto would make an excellent fight!”

Robert Brizel: “Miguel Cotto now has the 154-pound World Boxing Organization world title. Do you want it?”

Kermit Cintron: “Absolutely. Miguel Cotto is a big name. It’s a fight I always wanted! Cintron versus Cotto makes a lot of sense.  He’s a big name.”

Robert Brizel: Do you think the WBO will rank you in the world ratings and approve a bout between you and Miguel?”

Kermit Cintron: “Mayweather and McGregor fought with eight ounce gloves instead of the regulation ten ounce gloves. I’m sure the WBO can fly me for Cotto’s last fight! You’ve got two name Puerto Rican fighters.  I’m an old school, fighter. I’m here to win a world title. I will accept any challenge. A world title is where the (big) money comes in (to play).”

Robert Brizel: “Matchmaker Mike Melendez and your trainer Joe Pastore have a history of not getting along. Should that fact figure into the fight with George sosa?”

Kermit Cintron: Not necessarily. Mike Melendez has an ego. He likes to talk too much. He makes things bigger than they should be.”

Robert Brizel: The bottom line. George Sosa wants the fight with you. Wil it happen?”

Kermit Cintron: “We can make it happen. I have no problem with any kind of challenge. I’ve accepted every kind of challenge in my career.”

Robert Brizel: “Floyd Mayweather Jr. just fought Conor McGregor at 154 pounds. Your thoughts?”

Kermit Cintron: “An interesting match. I watched it. Floyd did what he said he was gonna do. Walk him (McGregor) down.”

Robert Brizel: “Do you think Floyd will retire now?”

Kermit Cintron: “Absolutely. Floyd has done more than enough in his career (however) ………I’m not at the end of my career. According to my eleven-year-old daughter, I’ve still got plenty left in the tank!”

The post Kermit Cintron RCM Interview: Accepts George Sosa WBO Super Welterweight Belt Challenge appeared first on REAL COMBAT MEDIA.

Heavyweight Ike Ibeabuchi: The Top Secret Interview Files Part IV.

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

Authorized for publication by Ike Ibeabuchi, the four part interview series was conducted with Ike Ibeabuchi during his period of release to Gilbert, Arizona in early 2016. He remains in custody in Arizona in 2017 while various appeals and legal issues related to his probationary status remain to be resolved. The legal activities do not necessarily and perhaps do not relate to his later legal case in Nevada, to which he refers to.

PART 1

PART 2

PART 3

Robert B: “Can you clarify the actions of the State of Nevada?”

Ike Ibeabuchi: “If the State of Nevada will consider the actions of the Supreme Court of Nevada, I will be very much cleared (my record).”

Robert B: “Explain the reversal of your conviction twice in the Nevada Supreme Court?”

Ike Ibeabuchi: “Reversal (would ordinarily) mean a person would get a new trial. The state did not opt to go to trial. My conviction should therefore be expunged.”

Robert B: “Meaning?”

Ike Ibeabuchi: “Going back to the beginning of time, I am innocent! All I did was solicit prostitution. In Clark County Nevada, that is prosecuted. I confessed to NRS 201.354 prostitution, which is not allowed as a matter of law, and not what they claimed I did/ The status allowed only what happened by matter of law. I called a call girl from The Mirage (Hotel and Casino).  Wouldn’t go shy about confessing to what I did as a matter of law, versus the punishment Nevada gave me.”

Robert B: “What were the missing facts to the puzzle which entrapped you?”

Ike Ibeabuchi:“Unbeknownst to me, she had pled guilty to prostitution in 2001. I would have won my case because the state would have lost its (star) witness in 2001 (my accuser). She had been convicted. The state did not reveal that information to me when I gave an Alford plea (I didn’t admit my guilt but I avoided going to trial). They were legally bound to do so (reveal all of the facts regarding their witness against me, which they knew) in constitutional practice to reveal any information in conflict to my case. If she was a prostitute when she testified in state court-[and she said she wasn’t a prostitute-[(then) she’s a liar (gave false testimony). I never testified. She was protected by immunity. In 2001, she was convicted of prostitution (previously, before she testified against me). I didn’t know about her prior convictions when I pled guilty in Nevada in November 2001.

Reader’s Note: Ike Ibeabuchi was picked up for a hearing for probation violation by the State of Arizona on an old warrant on April 14, 2016, which is either related to the same case, or a different previous one. He will next appear in Arizona State Court for a non-witness violation hearing next month.

The post Heavyweight Ike Ibeabuchi RCM Interview: The Top Secret Interview Files Part IV. appeared first on REAL COMBAT MEDIA.

Carl Iron Fist Davis, Brizel’s Cruiserweight, Makes A Comeback, Wins By Kayo at Age 44

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

Former United States Boxing Organization Cruiserweight champion Carl ‘Iron Fist’ Davis won a successful comeback at age 44 on December 2, 2018, at Carnivore Grounds, in Nairobi, Kenya, with a third-round stoppage of Mbaruku Kheri.

The more experienced Davis, now 17-7 with 13 knockouts, Evanston, Illinois, had Kheri, 16-10 with 14 knockouts, Das-Es-Salaam, Tanzania, a late sub, in serious trouble throughout the contest. However, Davis described him as a strong fighter. Davis was advised by this reporter for his wins over former World Cruiserweight champion King Arthur Williams, and former heavyweight contender Bert Cooper, Davis’ last victory before this comeback. The Kheri bout in Kenya was fought at heavyweight. Davis could make an attempt to regain his USBO Cruiserweight title, which has remained vacant since he won it in Chicago in 2010.

The Davis card in Kenya featured eight pro bouts, including Fatuma Zarika winning the WBC Female World Super Bantamweight title, Anisha Bashir winning the African Boxing Union Female Super Featherweight title, and 29-11 Kenyan welterweight veteran James Onyango winning his first 12 round decision. The WBC world titular bout on the Davis Kenyan card insured the results of the card would eventually be officially recognized. BoxRec did not post the official results of this fight card for nearly two months.

Result: Carl Davis TKO 3 Mbaruku Kheri, Heavyweights

Referee: Francis Olando 

Robert Brizel: “Iron Fist, glad to see you got your discipline back on track.”

Carl Davis: “It was a beautiful experience (winning my comeback), and thank you.”

Robert Brizel: Victory over yourself is the toughest fight of all.”

Carl Davis: “I have a lot I want to share, yes.”

Robert Brizel: “I would like to see you regain the USBO Cruiserweight title.”

Carl Davis: “Yes (I want it) even more. I fought at heavy(weight) this past fight weighing 205 (pounds).”

Robert Brizel: “That’s a very good weight for you, Carl.”

Carl Davis: “Yes. “

Robert Brizel: “Iron Fist, why did you decide to (make a) comeback at 44?”

Carl Davis: “I didn’t feel I accomplished all that I could as an athlete.”

Robert Brizel: “How did the Nigeria bout (where your comeback took place) come about? What’s your connection to the country, Carl?”

Carl Davis: “No connection. I was offered a fight by a promoter, because he heard I was training hard and looking for an opportunity.”

Robert Brizel: “Carl, what was different about your training for this bout versus the past? How did you invigorate your direction and soul (restart your boxing career), and get your boxing game back on track?”

Carl Davis: “A lot of shadow boxing and cardio plus film.”

Robert Brizel: “What kind of mental and physical preparation did you do with trainer Sam Colonna to prepare yourself for this challenge?”

Carl Davis: “Mental training. Fighting my inner demons, and focusing on my craft by watching old fighters like Ezzard Charles and Jersey Joe Walcott.”

Robert Brizel: “How long were you in Nigeria before the bout?”

Carl Davis: “Five days.”

Robert Brizel: “You went into the ring (came back against Mussa) Ajibu, a hot and cold 28 wins fighter. What was he like after the bell rang? How did you fight him? What was your game plan, and did you have to make any adjustments?”

Carl Davis: “No game plan, actually. When I landed, they told me they needed to substitute my opponent (I fought someone other than Ajibu). I didn’t fight Ajibu, but I was ready for anybody. I can’t spell his name (the guy I fought), but he was a lot stronger and more experienced. The WBC was there, and was impressed I put myself in a good position (make a good accounting of myself).”

Robert Brizel: “Would you like to get down to 200 pounds and fight for your USBO cruiserweight belt again?”

Carl Davis: “Make it happen!!”

The post Carl Iron Fist Davis RCM Interview- Cruiserweight, Makes A Comeback, Wins By Kayo at Age 44 appeared first on REAL COMBAT MEDIA.

“….I believe I’m the harder puncher” – Interview of “Swift” Jarrett Hurd
 
*Photo provided by Team Hurd.
 
 Interview By Pattee Mak, Real Combat Media New England Boxing Correspondent

Super welterweight “Swift” Jarrett Hurd (17-0-0, 11 Kos) of Accokeek, Maryland will be facing the 2012 Olympian, Oscar Molina (13-0-1, 10 Kos) of Norwalk, California on the undercard of Keith Thurman and Shawn Porter on June 25, 2016 at the very up and coming popular boxing venue of the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

Pattee Mak:  Thanks so much for taking the time to interview me. I’m sure you are extremely busy since your bout is only a few weeks away.  Who is currently training you and what have you and your trainers been focusing on during camp in preparation of this bout?

Hurd: You’re welcome Pattee. I’m currently being trained by “Ernesto Rodriguez” who is the head trainer of team SWIFT. Also we have assistant coach “Billy Robin”, physician “Dr. Phillip Ragland” and strength & conditioning coach “Martin Gibson” who also plays a big part with preparation. Our main focus on this camp is keeping distance. Trying not to engage in any unnecessary exchanges.

Pattee Mak:  Yes. it appears that there is a reach difference of about 6 inches between the two of you.  You having the increase. I would assume that that you will be using this to your advantage the night of the fight.  Besides that advantage what other advantages do you believe you have if any?

Hurd: I also have a height advantage and I believe I’m the harder puncher. This will play a huge part in my fight game come the 25th.

Pattee Mak:  What will be your game plan come the 25th? Are you going in patient and concentrating on timing or get in and get out?

Hurd: Well we are going to play it by ear. Depending on how Molina comes out. We will make our adjustment based of him behind a nice stiff jab.

Pattee Mak:   What do you know about Molina’s style of fighting?

Hurd: He’s pretty much a counter puncher. Most of the time he sits back and waits for his opponent to punch first before he attacks. Also he LOVE to throw the left hook. He may even lead with it from time to time. His punches are pretty crisp and sharp, nice hand speed. His weaknesses are he tends to sit back and wait too long which can cause me to get my punches off first and he doesn’t jab enough.

Pattee Mak: Is this an 8 or 10 round bout and the contract weight?

Hurd: This is a 10 rounder and the contracted weight is at 154lbs +1.

Pattee Mak:  For this bout do you see yourself not making the contract weight?

Hurd: Of course not. I make weight fairly easy. Weight loss is never an issue with team SWIFT. We have a script that we follow and so far it been working for us.

Pattee Mak:  Tell me a little bit about your amateur boxing back ground.

Hurd: I had 40 amateur fights. With a record of 32 wins – 8 loses. I won the DC Golden Gloves two years in a row (2007 and 2008). I entered the “Last Chance” tournament to qualify for the 2008 Olympic Team but fell short. Shortly after that I turned professional.

Pattee Mak:  After this fight what are your plans?

Hurd: Getting back in the gym and training. My fights are only going to get tougher from here on out. I’m ranked #9 in the nation by Boxrec, #10 in the world by the IBF and #11 by the WBA, so I know something big is coming soon.

Pattee Mak: Don’t you just love it when you know things are moving in the right direction.

Pattee Mak:   How did you get your ring name “Swift”?
 
Hurd: It was given to me in the gym. I guess from my fighting style and how relaxed I look in the ring.

Pattee Mak:  Recently Muhammad Ali passed away.  He was an inspiration to the boxing community.  Any words?

Hurd: Ali was really the G.O.A.T (Greatest Of All Time). He done so much for this sport. Most importantly he inspired people, including me.

Pattee Mak:  Comments to your fans.

Hurd: Thank you for all the love and support you guys give me. Y’all are the reason I fight today. Without you all tuning in, I wouldn’t have anyone to display my talent in front of.

Pattee Mak:  Thank you sooo much for the interview. Good luck to you on the 25th.

Hurd: No problem. Thank you also Pattee. I really appreciate it.

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Nate Tubbs-Mahmoud Fadel Interview Live Muhammad Ali Funeral Procession Louisville

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

Muhammad Ali 1942-2016 Celebrating ‘The Greatest’ of All Time

In a Real Combat Media international exclusive interview live during the Muhammad Ali funeral procession, former heavyweight Nate Tubbs and former Muhammad Ali sparring partner Mahmoud Fadel sounded in on the activities for Muhammad Ali in progress in Louisville, Kentucky, their friendships with Ali, and Muhammad Ali’s legacy.

Tens of thousands lined the final route of Muhammad Ali’s hearse and vehicular funeral procession, waving, cheering, talking about it, shouting “Ali! Ali!”, “Champ!”, and “Muhammad Ali, we love you!” and “Ali Boomaye!” as it slowly traveled through the streets of Louisville, past his childhood home and the Muhammad Ali Freedom Center, and other important places in his lifetime in his hometown. Some threw roses and other flowers which stuck to the front of the hearse windshield, unable to contact their grief, or perhaps fully accept or belief the man called ‘The Greatest’, who did so much for his hometown, for other people and the world, was finally gone.

While some took pictures with cameras and cellphones, others reached forward in stoic silence to gently touch the hearse car, or just looked on silently simply caught in the moment. The hearse slowly but surely made its way to Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisvlle, also the final resting place of Kentucky Fried Chicken legend Colonel Harland Sanders.

Ali himself selected a simple plot in the 300 acre cemetery, and a simply Muslim stone.

Reporters also lined the hearse procession route, along with police in uniform.

At one point, several young men ran along the hearse, one carrying a huge placard which read ‘Ali Is The Greatest Thanks 4 All The Memories’.

One television reporter noted how Ali had taken an ordinary name like John smith, called himself Muhammad Ali, and made his ordinary name so important. Ali had made created a scenario where people of all races, colors, religions, and nationalities, and had them chant his Muslim name. The referent serves to prevent worldwide hatred of Islam due to Islamic terrorist activities, which should not cause people to discriminate against Islamic people.

Ali’s funeral served more as a celebration of his life, rather than a somber event, which is what he predicted it would be and ultimately wanted.

Robert Brizel: “Nate, when did you find out Muhammad Ali had passed away?”

Nate Tubbs: “I saw it on the local station news (in Cincinnati), and a bunch of people called me. Mike Tyson called me.”

Robert Brizel: “Was the funeral preplanned well in advance years ago?”

Nate Tubbs: “A funeral plan was in effect by Ali and his wife Lonnie. They had pre arrangements. They told me the ceremony (yesterday) would last a half hour, but it lasted three hours. The King of Jordan, President Bill Clinton, Bryan Gumbel, and Billy Crystal were among those who spoke. The Rev. Louis Farrakhan, The Rev. Jesse Jackson and the President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan were among those in attendance.”

Reader’s Note: People of all faiths were welcome and in attendance at Ali’s Islamic funeral ceremony.

Robert Brizel: Who was at Ali’s funeral ceremony who you knew?”

Nate Tubbs: “Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Bernard Hopkins, Sugar Ray Leonard, Lennox Lewis, and Hasim Rahman (among others) at the North Hall at Freedom Center. Mike Tyson arrived today.”

Robert Brizel: Tell me about the close relationship between Muhammad Ali and your brother Tony Tubbs, the former world heavyweight champion.”

Nate Tubbs: “They were real close. Tony fought for him as an amateur. Tony was the heavyweight on Muhammad Ali’s amateur boxing team in 1976.”

Robert Brizel: “Did Muhammad Ali buy Tony a house?”

Nate Tubbs: “Muhammad bought my mom a house in Cincinnati 35 years ago in 1980, when Tony turned pro. Pearl Smith was Ali’s promoter. She was the Don King of the early 1970’s and 1980’s.”

Robert Brizel: What was Muhammad Ali the man like?”

Mahmoud Fadel: “All he (Ali) wanted to do (in his lifetime) was help people and down and out boxers with no money and food to eat.”

Robert Brizel: “Mahmoud, how did you feel about Ali’s passing?”

Mahmoud Fadel: “I felt bad. At the same time I felt decent because Ali was not suffering (anymore).”

Mahmoud Fadel: “About two years ago. He was conscious of it (his own mortality). He knew sooner or later he was gonna die because he was suffering from the Parkinson’s (and it was getting progressively worse). Ali was like a brother to me. We were supposed to fight each other in the Middle East. I was his sparring partner in Miami. I said c’mon, let’s fight each other, and have a good time (Patel expected a good payday but he did not expect to win). Muhammad was looking forward to it, but it never happened. Muhammad did not want to fight anybody he considered to be a close friend, and we were close friends then.”

The post Nate Tubbs-Mahmoud Fadel RCM Interview During the Muhammad Ali Funeral Procession Louisville appeared first on REAL COMBAT MEDIA.

Willie Herring Interview: Calls Out Ronald Johnson for Comeback Bout

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

In a Real Combat Media interview exclusive, former UBO World Cruiserweight champion Willie Herring, now training for a comeback bout in his native Ocala, Florida, called out boxer and promoter Ronald Johnson as his comeback opponent, as well as others such as James Toney he would like to fight in the near future. Between 2002 and 2013, Herring posted a pro record of 14-13-2 with five knockouts, including wins over Troy Ross and Ravea Springs, Mark Doku, am Tillman, Moises Droz, Gilberto Balteiro, and Victor Dario Gimenez, and a draw with world ranked Shawn George.

Robert Brizel: “Willie, are you hungry in your comeback?”

Willie Herring: “I’m gonna remain hungry and humble, and I’m gonna work harder than anybody else.”

Robert Brizel: “You were released from Florida prison when?”

Willie Herring: “Last year on June 5 (June 5, 2015).”

Robert Brizel: “How have your boxing goals changed since you were released?”

Willie Herring: “My boxing goals changed. I decided to surrender my heart to God and all of my goals. So now pouring over into boxing, my desire has turned into a passion. So instead of just setting a goal to be a great boxer, I have a passion for boxing, and (I wish to) inspire those who are coming up behind me as well.”

Robert Brizel: “Where are you training, and who are you training with?”

Willie Herring: “I am training in Ocala, Florida at John 316-317, that’s (the name of the gym is) a bible scripture. My trainer and mentor is Tito Ocasio.”

Robert Brizel: “How did you hook up with Tito Ocasio?”

Willie Herring: “I was looking for a gym in the area, and I started training for a while. (Then) I stepped away for a while. I need that spiritual accountability so that I could reach my full potential, and make the greatest impact could on minds and lives who admire me. So (then) I came back home, (and went) back on the team with Tito.”

Robert Brizel: “How is Tito different? How has he changed you, and in what way?”

Robert Brizel: “First of all, he (Tito) is a great man of God, and he has my utmost respect because what he does in the gym is part of his passion and ministry to influence lives, to better lives and also bring others to the knowledge of Christ.”

Robert Brizel: “What is your new boxing goal? What do you want to achieve?”

Willie Herring: “First of all, I have unfinished business in the cruiserweight division, being that I aim to fight Roy Jones Jr and Antonio Tarver in the division.”

Robert Brizel: “Isn’t Roy Jones Jr. retired?”

Willie Herring: “He’s still active from what I hear.”

Robert Brizel: “Isn’t Antonio Tarver a heavyweight?”

Willie Herring: “Yes, yet I heard he’s campaigning at cruiserweight at well. He’s just looking for that big Klitschko payday. I want both of them in the ring, as well as anybody and everybody else that’s in the cruiserweight division that’s holding a title or making any noise. I will clean up the cruiserweight division, and then I will go back up to heavyweight.”

Robert Brizel: “You want to fight James Toney too. Why?”

Willie Herring: “Yes. I admire him for his accomplishments. To share the ring and to beat someone who has made history is a great accomplishment for me. Along with them my name will be written in the history books as the man who beat who beat James Toney, the boxer who beat Roy Jones Jr., and the man who pummeled Antonio Tarver.”

Robert Brizel: “I spoke to a guy name Xavier something, I don’t remember the last name. He called me and said was I interested in a fight with James Toney? Yews I’m still interested. I’m invested in boxing, so I’m interested in anything that’s part of that.

Willie Herring: “Jones, Toney and Tarver are all old guys, and you are younger than them. Don’t you want to fight the meat of the division?”

Willie Herring: “Yes I do. That includes anybody who holds a title or who has made noise in the division. Those who have made more noise than the meat of the division. Just give me the contract, and I’ll beat these three guys, and that’s an accomplishment in itself.”

Robert Brizel: “Have you seen footage on any of the current cruiserweight champions?”

Willie Herring: “Yes, but the man I want to fight next is Polish cruiserweight Michal Cieslak. He beat Francisco Palacios, who’s like a brother to me. For my brother and my country, I’m gonna represent them and stand in the gap for my brother (who got stopped by Cieslak in the fourth round). In this fight, I won’t be stopped. I am calling Ceslak out.”

Robert Brizel: “How much do you weigh now, and when you be ready (to fight again)?

Willie Herring: “I am 215 pounds, and I’m ready to get down (in weight) right now!”

Robert Brizel: “When do you think your next comeback fight will be?”

Willie Herring: “It’s looking like it will be here in Florida either against Ronald Johnson July 25; 2016, in Orlando, Florida, or Sahret Delgado on July 15 in Kissimmee, Florida. Whichever contract comes through will be the first one to lose.”

Robert Brizel: “Are you calling either of these fighters out?”

Willie Herring: “I’m calling Ronald Johnson out for the fact a matchmaker contacted me, and said he would fight me. With respect I fought the best in the world in the cruiserweight division, so if you don’t respect (me) it’s time to change you. Ruben De Jesus who works with Tito Zavala of All-Star Boxing asked me would I be interested in fighting Delgado. I told him as soon I get my contract I’ll put this young guy in his place. Ronald Johnson is also a co-promoter for this show in Orlando who does cards on Telemundo TV, so he’s paying me for a loss, just like I beat Troy Ross. Personally I want Ronald Johnson.

Then (afterwards I want to fight) Michael Ceislak, the guy who beat Palacios, he’s on my list too, it’s personal, it’s gonna be sweet revenge for my brother (Francisco Palacios) and I’m gonna represent my country.

Robert Brizel: “And how is God so good to you right now?”

Willie Herring: “He (God) has always been good to me. I didn’t appreciate the brick He gave me. I didn’t appreciate the opportunities He gave me, I didn’t fully appreciate the blessings for my talent He gave me. Now I appreciate Him more than ever, he is my rock, my salvation, (and) my strength.”

Robert Brizel: “You won a world title at 200 pounds a few years back when you stopped Ravea Springs. Would you like to fight for a title of any kind again in the near future?”

Willie Herring: “Yes. That is my goal. I have a team, Innovative Athletic Performance, Ocala, Florida, which invests in me. I have a personal training team, a nutritionist, a physical conditioning specialist, my performance and conditioning team, that we’re going to make (it), there are pouring all into me, so I can go out and make history. John 316 (my gym) and IAP (my athletic team) will make (boxing) history.”

The post Willie Herring RCM Interview: Calls Out Ronald Johnson for Comeback Bout appeared first on REAL COMBAT MEDIA.

Remembering Luis KO King Rosa Jr., with Derek Gionta Interview Tribute Exclusive

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

 *Photo Credit: Robert Brizel, Real Combat Media

Both this reporter, and noted boxing trainer and cut man Derek Gionta, knew Luis ‘KO King’ Rosa Jr. Gionta granted Real Combat Media an exclusive interview, remembering Connecticut’s top featherweight prospect, whose corner Gionta worked as the cut man.

My photograph in 2010 says it all. Luis ‘KO King’ Rosa of New Haven, Connecticut, was well on his way to becoming the featherweight champion of the world. After seven years of hard work, Rosa reached 23-0 (with two No-Contests), and wound up on ShoBox in a televised vacant World Boxing Council Continental Americas Featherweight title bout.

Rosa had fought in California, New York, New Jersey and his native Connecticut. However, for ShoBox, Rosa traveled to the Masonic Temple & Performing Arts Center in Cleveland, Ohio, on November 10, 2017, to fight for the vacant World Boxing Council Continental Americas regional title against Cleveland’s Yuandale Evans, who got a hometown 10 round split decision and took the WBC regional title. Rosa would have had to win one more round to draw the bout, with one scorecard being the difference. Rosa’s camp wanted a rematch with Evans, but it would never happen.

On January 24, 2018, Rosa died on injuries sustained in a car accident in West Haven, Connecticut.  A Honda driving northbound crossed over into the southbound lane on an area road, and hit Rosa’s Acura, which he was driving. Rosa did not survive his injuries. Others were critically injured.

Noted boxing trainer Derek Gionta of Pittsburgh is a friend of the Rosa family, and worked the corner for Rosa as the cut man in his WBC bout in Cleveland.

Robert Brizel: “Derek, you worked the corner in Luis Rosa’s last fight. In your view, did he win it?”

Derek Gionta: “It was hard to say. I thought it could have gone his way. I had a feeling of a 96-94 score. I think it could have been that score either way (for either Rosa or Evans). It was a competitive fight. Rosa came on strong at the end and definitely applied the pressure. Funny, when you work the corner as the cut man, you find yourself looking at the fighter’s face more than bout itself. You’re looking for cuts, you are looking for swelling, and traces of blood.”

Robert Brizel: “Was Luis hurt during the bout with Evans significantly?”

Derek Gionta: “I wouldn’t say he was hurt at any point. Evans might have hit him with some short punches, but Luis’ body language didn’t indicate anything. Luis fought with relentless pressure the whole time. I didn’t think it was necessarily a bad decision. Steve Farhood scored it for Evans. Most of the ShoBox crew all seemed to think Evans won the fight. They all say it one way, they are smart guys. Also being in the corner as a cutman….

Robert Brizel: “You see it for your fighter.”

Derek Gionta: “It just looked very close and competitive, given Rosa’s work rate.”

Robert Brizel: “Derek, don’t you think when ShoBox and judges come in to cover a fighter’s bout in his hometown, that that fighter has the principal advantage?”

Derek Gionta: “I think it many cases it does. I think the ShoBox crew was probably more aware of the dynamics of it. Rosa was Lou DiBella’s fighter, Lou DiBella was there, and Rosa had the red corner or ‘A’ corner.”

Robert Brizel: “Derek, it was still Yuandale Evans’ hometown of Cleveland. So don’t you think the corner color was meaningless, given that hometown edge?”

Derek Gionta: “I think in this situation it was. The viewers looking at the fight on TV forma fan’s perspective would say it is the red corner, Lou DiBella’s fighter, undefeated record, that Rosa was more the favorite. However, on paper, it was a 50-50 matchup. Evans had the hometown crowd behind him. We had a judge from Pennsylvania, a judge from Ohio, and ten we had Larry Hazzard Jr. from New Jersey. The Pennsylvania judge, Pat Casey, gave the bout to Evans.  You cover enough fights, you see some judges like a boxer, some judges like a brawler. Phil Rogers, the Ohio judge, gave it to Evans. I’ve seen him judge close fights and go for the brawler. This was a hard fight to score.”

Robert Brizel: “Derek, you went with Rosa back to the dressing room. Did he take the loss hard? What happened?”

Derek Gionta: “Rosa and Lou DiBella thought Rosa won. He was talking to his mom and ad outside the ring. He was disappointed, The punch stat was close. I did not go all the way back to the dressing room with them. I cut his wraps outside the ring. I was talking to his father (former pro fighter Luis Rosa Sr.) later that night at the hotel we were staying at in Cleveland. Very competitive, very professional, hopefully, we’ll get a rematch and win in back. He was still very upbeat, down about the loss, happy his son performed well.”

Robert Brizel: “Derek, Rosa was only 26 years old. Where do you think his career with Lou DiBella have gone if he had lived?”

Derek Gionta: “He was in the right hands with Lou DiBella. If Rosa had won the ShoBox  bout, he would have been in line for a title fight, if not right away, then soon?”

Robert Brizel: “You reached out to the family after Rosa passed away.”

Derek Gionta: “Rosa passed away a day or two after my grandmother passed away, not a very good week. I tested his dad, and sent him a card. I couldn’t believe it, a healthy young guy like that. You want to be talking about boxing. I ran into Luis Rosa Sr. and his wife Marilyn Rosa at a Jimmy Burchfield show in Providence with his son and daughter. We talked at the weigh-in, and we talked the following morning. On February 23, 2018, that card, Burchfield dedicated the boxing card to the late Luis Rosa Jr. Luis’ mother Marilyn spoke in the ring.”

The post Remembering Luis KO King Rosa Jr., with Derek Gionta RCM Interview Tribute Exclusive appeared first on REAL COMBAT MEDIA.

Philadelphia Lightweight Jerome Conquest Interview: On The Comeback Trail

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

* Photo Credit: Peltz Boxing

In a Real Combat Media interview exclusive given ringside at SugarHouse Casino in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, popular southpaw lightweight Jerome Conquest, one of Philadelphia’s favorite and finest fighters today, discussed his recovery from a leg injury which incurred recently during roadwork training, the cancellation of his scheduled hometown bout with fellow Philadelphia lightweight southpaw Tyrone Crawley Jr., and his burning desire to heal and return to the Philadelphia ring for a comeback later in 2018.

Robert Brizel: “Tell me about the cast on your left leg, and how it all happened, if you had any surgery, and what the whole story is. Boxing fans want to know.”

Jerome Conquest: “I was getting ready for my bout with Tyrone Crawley Jr. for the WBF Inter-Continental Silver Lightweight title (scheduled for) June 8 at the SugarHouse Casino. It (the leg injury) happened during training. I was running wind sprints, (as) part of my training on Sundays, and I tore my Achilles (tendon). My Achilles gave out. I incurred the injury on a Sunday, I did the surgery on a Monday, and we’ll see what the timeline is (now for my recovery). They (my doctors) gave me a timeline of three to four months (to fully heal), but I’m giving myself one to two months (expected recovery time).

Robert Brizel: “You had a loss in your last fight (to Tyrone Luckey), as did Tyrone Crawley Jr. (to Anthony Mercado), yet you (still) seem very much on the comeback trail. Was the Crawley fight a fight you were very much looking forward to?”

Jerome Conquest: “Me and Tyrone Crawley Jr., we are friends. It isn’t a fight I was looking forward to, but it was a fight (match) where my manager and my trainers loved the fight, because we are both coming off of losses, and they (both fight camps) say neither one of us is a big puncher.”

Robert Brizel: “I don’t know about that. I’m familiar with your loss to Moldovan fighter Piotr Postol (inactive since 2016, but scheduled to fight again on May 26, 2018, in Fresno, California) and Yonkers fighter Victor Vazquez (who was stopped in the seventh round of his last bout by Josue Vargas on April 21, 2016, in Brooklyn). Would you like a rematch with Victor Vazquez?”

Jerome Conquest:“I asked for a rematch with Victor Vazquez, and he said no mas (no more). Right now I’m worried about my weight class, 130 pounds.”

Robert Brizel: “I was familiar with Tyrone Luckey early in his career. He started well, then had a downturn. Tell me about your bout with Luckey.”

Jerome Conquest: “The Luckey fight result was because of me. I got caught with a good shot., and I don’t feel as though referee Gary Rosato should have stopped it. Rosato did his job. I can’t be mad at Rosato. That loss won’t set me back. I’m looking forward.”

Robert Brizel: “Do you think you will ever fight a rematch with Tyrone Luckey?”

Jerome Conquest: “Not really. I did not even want that fight in the first place. I shouldn’t even have been fighting him. I didn’t want to fight someone who is 8-8-3. Tyrone Luckey is something like a journeyman. I didn’t want to fight a journeyman. I wanted to fight a contender with a winning record like me, somebody who had no losses. I asked for Ray Lampkin, who is 11-1. I was gonna fight Tyrone Crawley, who is 8-1. Those are the king of records I want. I want to fight 11-0 fighters. I don’t want (to fight) them journeymen.”

Robert Brizel: “What did you learn from the Tyrone Luckey fight?”

Jerome Conquest: “To keep my hands up, move, keep my hands up, and stay out of the corner. It was a mental mistake. I was going through a lot. My brother just died that week. My brother had the flu and passed away that week. I (also) had the flu two weeks prior, and I had a torn rib cage. There was nothing I complained about. This is my first time ever telling anybody that (my circumstances surrounding my last fight with Tyrone Luckey). I don’t want to use any excuses. I just got caught with a good shot.”

Robert Brizel: “What is your timeline for recovery?”

Jerome Conquest: “They told me three to four months, but I’m trying to cut that (the recovery time) in half. I will try to be back in the ring for September or December. I’m not going to go over my doctor’s head.”

Robert Brizel: “Are you able to do any kind of training now despite the leg?”

Jerome Conquest: “I do all upper body work. I’m still working on the upper body. I still have to do some kind of exercise (during my leg recovery period). I can’t just sit around and do nothing waiting for my leg to heal.”

Robert Brizel: “Do you think your fight with Tyrone Crawley Jr. will be rescheduled?”

Jerome Conquest: “I just spoke with (King’s Promotions promoter) Marshall Kauffman, and he says that’s the fight that he wants (for me next). Marshall Kauffman (still) wants that fight, so I guess that’s the fight I’m going to get next. Between September and December, I’ll be back.”

Robert Brizel: “There’s a lot of fights at 2300 Arena in Philadelphia tonight, but yet you are here at SugarHouse Casino in Philadelphia (instead).”

Jerome Conquest: “I’m here supporting my man Alex Barboza, and Mykal Fox. I’m here supporting them two guys. I understanding there is boxing at 2300 Arena, but….”

Robert Brizel:“Friends are more important than Floyd (Mayweather Jr.).”

Jerome Conquest: “Yes. If Floyd shows up (at 2300 Arena) so see is fighter fight on Showtime, good for him. I’ve been in the same gym with Floyd before. I’m not star struck.”

Robert Brizel: “Is Floyd a disciplined athlete?”

Jerome Conquest: “Yes, Floyd is a great athlete. His work ethic is 1000 percent when he is in training camp, even when he’s not in training camp.”

Robert Brizel: “Floyd’s disciplined every day, like Bernard Hopkins.”

Jerome Conquest: “Yes.”

Robert Brizel: “Do you think Bernard should fight again?”

Jerome Conquest: “No. I think Bernard has the heart, I just don’t think he should fight again. He has nothing to prove to anybody. Bernard doesn’t even have to prove anything to himself. He did everything a fighter can dream of doing. Bernard should never have taken the Joe Smith fight to begin with. He should have just went on with his legacy. That’s just my personal opinion.”

Robert Brizel: “Do you miss being out of the ring these last few months? Does it (inactivity) take a lot out of you?”

Jerome Conquest: “It takes a lot out of you. Sitting around the house? I can’t do it.”

The post Philadelphia Lightweight Jerome Conquest RCM Interview: On The Comeback Trail appeared first on REAL COMBAT MEDIA.

Tank Williams Speaks! Calls Out Top Heavyweights, Seeks Holyfield Real Deal Rematch

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

In a Real Combat Media interview exclusive, veteran Bahamas heavyweight Sherman ‘The Caribbean ‘Tank’ Williams of the Bahamas, now living in Florida, is calling out all of the top heavyweights in the division, and is seeking a ‘real deal’ rematch with Evander Holyfield.

Williams, age 45, 40-15-2, with 22 knockouts, Vero Beach, Florida, by way of Freeport, Bahamas, is coming off a second round stoppage win over Epifanio Mendoza at A Social Affair and Convention Center in Freeport on May 26, 2018. Williams has been stopped only once in 57 fights during his 21 year career, and has fought decisions frequently in his favored opposition hometowns around the world. While Williams still gets many inquiries, more often than not, fighters back out when they hear his name mentioned.

Of greatest interest to Williams would be a rematch of what he calls his World Boxing Federation World Heavyweight title three round no contest farce with Evander ‘Real Deal’ Holyfield, what Williams describes as a raw deal. Williams landed a legitimate overhand right hand punch which cut Holyfield above the left eye. Holyfield and his corner then claimed to referee Dave Johnson that Holyfield was unable to see from an accidental headbutt on January 2, 2011, at The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. No headbutt was evident during the bout, yet the Holyfield corner was able to convince the referee of it on their own to get the no contest, which Williams likened to the November 20, 2014 disqualification of undefeated Gerald Nobles against Nicolai Valuev in the fourth round in Kempten, Germany, a bout in which Nobles, then 24-0, was deducted a point and disqualified for low blows which are not evident at any time in the bout. Holyfield, now 55 years old, last fought in May 2011, when he stopped Brian Nielsen in the tenth round in Copenhagen, Denmark. Holyfield was 47 years old at the time, and has been retired for seven years from fighting, working instead as a promoter.”

Robert Brizel: “First of all, congratulations on your comeback win last week over Epifanio Mendoza.”

Sherman Williams: “Thank you.”

Robert Brizel: “Let me begin by asking you if you want to call out Evander Holyfield. I saw your fight with Holyfield on YouTube. All I saw was one good punch thrown by you on Holyfield, and a lot of bull talked in Holyfield corner. The ‘Real Deal’ is doing promotions in Atlantic City. You want a rematch. Why? Holyfield did say in the post fight interview he would give you a rematch. Would you call him out for a rematch?”

Sherman Williams: “Yeah! I wanted to fight him (again) years ago. I’m open to a rematch with Holyfield. Ten rounds, 12 rounds, of course, we can make it (a rematch) for all the marbles.”

Robert Brizel: “I saw you hit Holyfield with an overhand right. Holyfield claimed afterwards in the corner after round two blood was coming into his left eye from a cut over it caused by an accidental headbutt. Was there any headbutt?”

Sherman Williams: There was no headbutt. The bout is all over YouTube. From the first bell, he was in trouble. I caught him (Holyfield) multiple times. I caught him with a right cross to the body. I hit him straight across the head. I was gonna stop him. He knew he was in trouble once I hit him with the overhand right. The overhand right was a perfect Jersey Joe (Walcott) punch. It’s a punch if you land it multiple times, your opponent will be in trouble. Tommy Brooks in his corner was trying to outsmart the referee. I have never seen a referee take directions from a corner. They (Holyfield’s corner) told the referee to call the fight, and he called it (initially) a majority draw. The one ringside doctor present was more interested in taking a photo with Evander Holyfield.”

Robert Brizel: “If it goes to the cards, it would be a technical draw or technical win, but it depends on the rules of the particular state (and the number of rounds required to be completed before the referee goes to the judges’ scorecards).”

Robert Brizel: “You are saying it should have been a second-round TKO win for you, and Holyfield used his celebrity status to get a No Contest? What Holyfield calls the real deal you call a raw deal?”

Sherman Williams: “It was a bad deal. Holyfield is a bum! I’ll beat him seven days out of the week. Holyfield said in the corner he did not want to come out for the next round, They (the Holyfield corner) were looking to get out of the fight (with me) because they had a date (coming up afterwards) with Brian Nielsen in Copenhagen. I told the West Virginia Boxing commission if Holyfield could not see, he should not have been allowed to fight for another 90 days and go to Copenhagen. My late manager, Si Stern, made an appeal which meant nowhere. My opinion is the West Virginia Boxing Commission was incompetent, and I never care to fight in West Virginia again. It was a lot like Gerald Nobles heavyweight disqualification loss to Nicolai Valuev in Germany. Nobles did nothing wrong, but they disqualified him for low blows anyway and stole the fight from him.”

Robert Brizel: “You’ve been in the ring with Joseph Parker before (October 2015, lost in ten rounds, in Auckland, New Zealand. One judge had the bout 97-94 for Parker, while the other two judges scored the bout strangely 100-90 for Parker).”

Sherman Williams: “Yeah, I would love an opportunity (for) a crack at Joseph Parker again. It was the first time he went the distance (when I fought Parker), and it was one of his toughest fights. I’m calling out (now) all of the top ten heavyweights.”

Robert Brizel: “You’ve fought Manuel Charr for ten rounds. Would you fight charr again, Tomasz Adamek, or Alexander Povetkin?”

Sherman Williams: “I would love to fight Alexander Povetkin. I would love to fight Tomasz Adamek. Of the group of guys (great heavyweights) who came up, I’m the last of the Mohegans. Cedric Kushner and a lot of these guys (the noteworthy promoters) They take the easy route (for their fighters). I am ready, willing and able to fight Tomasz Adamek, Alexander Povetkin, Kubrat Pulev. I am ready to fight any one of the top Polish heavyweights. Bring it on!”

Robert Brizel: “You have gone the distance with Robert Helenius, Parker, Charr, Gerlad Washington, Chauncy Welliver, Harold Sconiers, Ruslan Chagaev, Gerald Washington, Jameel McCline, Al Cole, Taurus Sykes, Gabe Brown, Tommy Martin, Lenzie Morgan, Tye Fields, Gilbert Martinez, Christian Hammer and others. It looks like (your record) you have been robbed (of the decision) by everybody you have fought.”

Sherman Williams: “I fought everyone that was relevant. If you get a copy of those fights (and view them, you will come to the conclusion that), a lot of those fights could have been scored the other way. My fight with Ruslan Chagaev, they gave to the decision to Chagaev in Germany, but I won (the bout) clearly. My fight with Joseph Parker in New Zealand, we could make a case (that I won the decision) for that. I deserved the Martin decision in Canada. You get a lot of B.S. decisions. I’m a tough guy.”

Robert Brizel: You and Jerry Butler are the strongest heavyweight fighters ever to come out of the Bahamas. However, Jerry has lost nine of his last ten bouts.”
Sherman Williams: “Jerry just gave an opportunity to an up and coming fighter (5-0 Florida heavyweight Amron Sands), and lost the four-round bout in the Bahamas. I don’t think Jerry takes his training seriously.”

Robert Brizel: “What about Amir Mansour and Travis Kauffman?”

Sherman Williams: “Travis Kauffman (his people) asked for the fight (with me). I never heard back from the matchmaker or the promoter. There’s (also) a guy in Canada named Shane Cameron. They (his people) called me to fight him in British Commonwealth title Heavyweight eliminator. They never called me back. Dillian Whyte offered to fight me. I accepted. He never called back. It’s the story of my life. A lot of these guys, they don’t want a real fight. I was offered Charles Martin for his comeback fight. They never called back. They (all) know Sherman Williams is for real, and once I step into the ring, I’m bringing the fight. On any given night, I can knock any one of these guys out!”

Robert Brizel: “Sherman, you’ve gone the distance 44 times in bouts you’ve won, lost or drawn, which is fairly incredible. Have you really lost any of these decisions?”

Sherman Williams: Four of the decisions I lost I think were justified, I didn’t do as well as I should have. All of the other decisions I fought in other fighter’s backyards. I deserved to win over Ruslan Chagaev. My decision with Joseph Parker could have gone either way. I had Parker hurt multiple times.”

Robert Brizel: “Your final word on why you want a rematch with Evander Holyfield, who’s 55 years old now, and why it is so important to you.”

Sherman Williams: “My thing is Holyfield quit in the ring with me, and used his celebrity power to get a no decision. He got stopped that night, and he needs to remember that the rest of his days. He’s promoting now, I’d like to fight him on his show, or fight him! It doesn’t matter (where). Holyfield lost (to me), and got away with robbery!”

The post SHERMAN ‘TANK’ WILLIAMS RCM INTERVIEW – CALLS FOR EVANDER HOLYFIELD TO COME OUT OF RETIREMENT FOR A REMATCH appeared first on REAL COMBAT MEDIA.

Prince Armin Mrkanovic Wants Prince Badi Ajamu For UBF All America Title War!

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

Atlantic City (June 6th, 2018)– In a Real Combat Media interview exclusive, ‘The Bosnian Prince’, former MMA fighter turned cruiserweight boxer Armin Mrkanovic, 8-3 with three knockouts, Queens, New York, is calling out Mis Downing Promotions and cruiserweight Prince Badi Ajamu for a ‘Prince Versus Prince’ vacant Universal Boxing Federation All America Cruiserweight title eight round war at The Claridge in Atlantic City, New Jersey!

Ajamu, 29-4 with fifteen knockouts, Camden, New Jersey, has won two recent eight round decisions in Atlantic City over veteran Edgar Perez. Mrkanovic, coming off a six round decision win over Nicholas Gavin last month at the Amazura Concert Hall in Queens, fought for the vacant UBF All America cruiserweight title a year ago in West Virginia against Josh Himes. Mrkanovic, who still claims he was robbed of the eight round decision against Himes, still wants to win the UBF belt, and thinks Ajamu is in his way.

Armin Mrkanovic: “Experience the greatness of The Bosnian Prince!”

Robert Brizel: “You recently had a six round decision comeback win over Nicholas Gavin in Queens. Tell about that.”

Armin Mrkanovic: “Nicholas Gavin, tough dude. I was looking for a knockout. The guy stood in there and took all the head shots. The fight should have been stopped in the first round. They wouldn’t stop it and let him take a beating. He (Gavin) stood in there for six rounds. It was my comeback fight. I decided to get my feet wet.”

Robert Brizel: “Do you seek possible rematches with Rayford Johnson or Rayshawn Myers?”

Armin Mrkanovic: “I’m not interested. I know I won those (bouts). It’s not going to bring nothing back (to fight them again). I know I beat them both, so it doesn’t matter. There’s nothing I want from them.”

Robert Brizel: “You fought Josh Himes last year for the Universal Boxing Federation All America Cruiserweight title, and you were robbed of the decision in West Virginia. I just completed an interview with Sherman ‘The Tank’ Williams, who claims he got robbed of a second round TKO win over Evander Holyfield in West Virginia after cutting Holyfield above the right eye with a legitimate overhand right hand punch. You may have seen his bout with Holyfield on YouTube. In Holyfield’s corner, his trainer Tommy Brooks said Holyfield had been headbutted, and the referee and the ringside doctor awarded Holyfield a No contest. West Virginia is what we would call a questionable venue for boxing. Would you agree?”

Armin Mrkanovic: “It’s not even a questionable venue. West Virginia is a place where fighters are spoon fed opponents by Tommy Wilson (Armin’s personal opinion), giving his fighters a pacifier (automatic wins over opponents) and keeping them happy. In terms of my bout with Josh Himes, the promoter robbed me. Himes is not willing to give me a rematch (of our eight round bout in 2017, in which Himes won the decision). Himes took a beating in our bout. I have had harder sparring sessions than Josh Himes.”

Robert Brizel: “Your bout with Himes for the vacant Universal Boxing federation All America cruiserweight title. That belt is now vacant.”

Armin Mrkanovic: “My belt is vacant. That’s my belt which I won (deserved to win, and got robbed of).”

Robert Brizel: “As you read, last week Prince Badi Ajamu, a former world light heavyweight champion, won an eight round comeback bout at cruiserweight by decision in Atlantic City. Would you like to fight Prince Badi Ajamu for the vacant UBF All America Cruiserweight belt in an eight round in Atlantic City next?”

Armin Mrkanovic: “If he is in my way, if that’s what it takes, of course.”

Robert Brizel: “Prince Badi Ajamu is a fighter with a significant win record, 29-4-1 with 15 knockouts, while your record is 8-3 with three knockouts. Ajamu has 34 fights experience, whereas you have considerably less experience than that, only 11 fights experience. Prince Badi Ajamu has been on the ring off and on since 2001, though he was off from 2010 to 2016. So would you be interested in a fight, prince against prince? Which prince do you think would win?”

Armin Mrkanovic: “The Bosnian Prince is the ONLY prince the people love. THE Bosnian Prince will win. Put it this way, the better man will win, and the better man will ALWAYS be The Bosnian Prince.”

Robert Brizel: “Ajamu stands six feet tall, while you stand 5’11”, so…..”

Armin Mrkanovic: “That doesn’t mean anything. Styles make fights. I’ll fight Ajamu anywhere in neutral territory where nobody gets gift (decisions) gifted. Anywhere they (the promoter and the public) want to see a real fight and a real winner.”

Robert Brizel: “Prince Badi Ajamu did not get a gift against Willis Lockett.”

Armin Mrkanovic: “I understand he didn’t. I’m not saying anything. He doesn’t want a gift, I don’t want a gift, so let’s fight in neutral territory.”

Robert Brizel: “How would you feel about fighting Ajamu in Atlantic City?”

Armin Mrkanovic: “Fine. I’ve been there (in Atlantic City) a few times before. I love Atlantic City.”

Robert Brizel: “Tell me about your MMA background.”

Armin Mrkanovic: “I was a kickboxer with Chuck Norris for a long time. I fought with Bellator, and then a changed over to boxing.”

Robert Brizel: “If you are able to win the vacant UBF All America cruiserweight belt over Prince Badi Ajamu, would you then call out Josh Himes for a rematch?”

Armin Mrkanovic: “I’ve been calling him out for the rematch since the day I left West Virginia. Josh Himes is not responding.”

Robert Brizel: “When do you want to get busy next?”

Armin Mrkanovic: “Next month. If Prince Badi Ajamu is the man standing in my way to get what’s mine, then let’s do it.”

The post Prince Armin Mrkanovic RCM Interview – Wants Prince Badi Ajamu For UBF All America Title War! appeared first on REAL COMBAT MEDIA.

Tommy Morrison Case (17-1537) Reaches U.S. Supreme Court Friday November 16, 2018

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

Case (17-1537) Tommy Morrison versus Quest Et Al will reach the U.S. Supreme Court on Friday, November 16, 2018, and will argue in its filing QUEST withheld scientific data, and acted with malice or oppression; and fought science” for years. The case will argue Quest labs never tested for the HIV virus, and its lab reports falsifying HIV infected status were misleading and dangerous, to the detriment and ruination of former world heavyweight champion Tommy Morrison’s boxing career. Morrison died in 2013, and what he actually died from is part of the controversy. Despite the fact his widow, Tricia Morrison, filed the case in the year after he died, the Tommy Morrison case contains many intriguing facts. However, unlike Muhammad Ali’s case before the high court, Ali was alive, but Morrison is not alive to argue his case, which could contribute to the high court’s decision to hear the case or not.

In a Real Combat Media international interview exclusive, Tricia Morrison, the widow of former World Heavyweight champion Tommy ‘The Duke’ Morrison, explains her upcoming case against the Nevada State Athletic Commission, which will reach the United States Supreme Court shortly. The case, a longstanding controversy, argues the Nevada State Athletic Commission falsely announced Tommy Morrison tested positive for the HIV virus, when the company responsible for providing the information, Quest Diagnostics, never tested Tommy or anyone else for the virus in the first place.

Robert Brizel: “Tricia, when was the latest ruling in Tommy’s case?”

Tricia Morrison: On October 1, 2018, the eight member United States Supreme Court denied my Writ of Certiorari, along with over 800 other cases. So, it wasn’t personal at all. They could do the same thing again. That decision was made before Brett Kavanaugh was sworn in as a United States Supreme Court Justice. In my petition for a rehearing, I state there were only eight justices on the court, and I am entitled to nine justices. They could do the same thing (turn all the cases involved down again). Muhammad Ali (his appeal to regain his professional boxing license) and Tommy Morrison are the only cases to reach the United States Supreme Court involving professional boxers.”

Robert Brizel: “What is the ultimate objective of your petition (on Tommy’s behalf) to the United States Supreme Court)?

Tricia Morrison: “Two things. First, the Nevada State Athletic Commission had fraudulently claimed to the lower courts under oath (and to Tommy’s fans) that NSAC section 467.027 section 3B existed in 1996, requiring boxers to have an HIV test. There was never (such) a rule in 1996 that any boxer had to have an HIV test. To this day, the NSAC is violating the Administrative Procedures in Nevada and nationwide, based on a notice and comment, based on a notice you are going to bring in this rule, and people have to comment on it, and scientific evidence has to be provided supporting it.”

Robert Brizel: “Supporting it?”

Tricia Morrison: “Exactly. They never did that. The second point in my petition of rehearing is that Quest Diagnostics Incorporated did not test for the HIV virus, even though the NSAC claimed they did at the time, causing my late husband Tommy to be disqualified (from boxing).”

Robert Brizel: “What tests did Quest Diagnostics perform at the time?”

Tricia Morrison: “the tests Quest did (at that time) were for RNA and DNA, antibodies which are not contagious or infectious, tests which have nothing to do with HIV, which Quest Diagnostics has known for decades. So, any lab report Quest provided to the NSAC was not confirmation of any disease.”

Robert Brizel: “The court accepted your refiled petition?”

Tricia Morrison: “It was refiled on the date it was written, October 23, 2018, and received on October 25, 2018. If there are no deficiencies, the case gets docketed. It is case 17-1537, Morrison versus Quest et al., which includes John Hyatt, a phony fake physician and pathologist who claimed he read the Morrison report, and Dr. Margaret Goodman who was instrumental in sabotaging Tommy’s comeback attempt in the State of Nevada in 2007. Also, Mark Ratner, who was the Executive Commissioner of the Nevada State Athletic Commission who delivered Tommy’s so-called HIV diagnosis to a third party’ amd then the Nevada State Athletic Commission (itself) for keeping Tommy out of boxing based on a phone call from Quest. This produced a lab report for the first time 20 years later which named a new physician Dr. Robert Voy, who never ran any tests or drew blood. Quest tampered with that report by putting his name down on that report.”

Robert Brizel: “Tony Holden played a part in Tommy’s career and acted the part of manager when all this went public. What was Tony Holden’s official title to Tommy?”

Tricia Morrison: “Tony Holden portrayed himself as Tommy’s manager, but in a deposition he states he never had a signed contract with Tommy. The only contract Tony Holden had was with Don King on February 10, 1996, and that should open some eyes.”




Robert Brizel: “Was Tommy aware of all of the details you are now describing to me?”

Tricia Morrison: “No, Tommy was not. Tommy described the discrimination against him in regards to the entire facts of the case before he died. After he died, I filed the case on July 24, 2014. With due diligence, I received a post mortem report which scientifically stated Tommy did not have the HIV virus, any AIDs defining diseases, or other abnormalities in his bloodstream. Before he died, Tommy wrote on a heart shaped block ‘Don’t give up my love!’ (my inspiration to fight on).”

Robert Brizel: “Did the news media fail Tommy?”

Tricia Morrison: “Tommy’s viewpoint was the news media was ridiculous. The news media, Tommy felt, had discriminated against him because of the Stigma placed on him by the Nevada State Athletic Commission and Quest Diagnostics since 1996, with their mutual false claim of an HIV diagnosis on Tommy (which no test ever took place for, which he did not have, and ruined his career, the heart of the U.S. Supreme Court case).”

Robert Brizel: “You stated Tommy fired John Brown as his manager in 1995.”

Tricia Morrison: “Yes, Tommy sued John Brown in 1996 for misappropriating funds. The case ends when Tommy turned to drugs after he was kicked out of boxing. Tony Holden took over the case for Tommy, and it ended without a judgment. There was no decision or award for either side.”

Robert Brizel: “Tommy had a blood test done on July 2012. Can you reveal the results?”

Tricia Morrison: “Tommy had blood drawn in July 2012 when he was still alive. The blood was sent to Mass General Hospital in Boston, independent of Quest. Tommy’s blood report came back HIV negative, with no other viral abnormalities, and Mass General photo imaged Tommy’s blood to 15 thousand parts magnification. The second blood test was performed post mortem (as previously discussed), and Tommy’s blood came back HIV negative/undetectable for the HIV virus.”

Robert Brizel: “Do you ever see Tommy in your dreams?”

Tricia Morrison: “Yes. Tommy often wanted to meet Michael Bentt again. He appears in my dreams, laughing and sparring with him. I have spoken since Tommy’s death with fellow boxers Michael Bentt, Jose Ribalta, Rob Calloway, Donnie LaLonde, Earnie Shavers, Leon Spinks, Ray Mercer and Bob Mirovic.”

Robert Brizel: “Tommy’s tombstone does not state ‘husband’.”

Tricia Morrison: “Because Tommy’s mother Diana chose not to put him down as ‘husband’. I must say, though, she gave birth to one of the most adorable human beings on the planet. Tommy wanted his ashes put in boxing gloves and distributed to those people who were with him in good times and bad times. I have a short list.”

Robert Brizel: “When Tommy began his comeback, was it serious?”

Tricia Morrison: “After ten years, it was as serious as it could be. In 2010 and 2011, Tommy wanted to get back into the ring as the oldest heavyweight champion in the world.”

Robert Brizel: “Tommy started to fade after botched surgery.”

Tricia Morrison: “Twelve feet of surgical gauze was left to rot in his chest for one week, until it was discovered and removed on December 8, 2011. The home health nurse found it. That night his right leg gave way, and Tommy’s head went straight through the wall. He landed on his neck, and that was the beginning of 21 months in and out of septic shock. It affected his breathing, eating, talking, and was his downfall. Eight months after the surgery, in, 2012, Tommy could not talk as half of his vocal cords were paralyzed. Even though Tommy could not talk (at that point) he understood everything until he was placed into a medically induced coma two days before he died in Omaha, Nebraska. Tommy died on September 1, 2013, of cardiac arrest, septicemia, and multiple organ failure, due to the blood infection caused by the gauze.”

Robert Brizel: “The media fed on the Tommy misinformation which was distributed like a pack of hyenas feeding on a dead pigeon.”




Tricia Morrison: “Dr. Elizabeth Iola represented Quest, and made the telephone call to the NSAC saying Tommy had tested positive for HIV. Her evidence was her lab report, which contained to tests for HIV. Another key point is back in 1996 HIV tests, when administered, took three weeks to process before getting the results, not overnight. This discovery is a relatively recent new development which is not even mentioned in the case.”

Robert Brizel: “What was Tommy’s relationship with the various boxing halls of fame??

Tricia Morrison: “Tommy visited the International and World Boxing Halls of Fame in the United States. The Berlin, Germany Boxing Hall of Fame wants to induct Tommy next year. Tommy loved the International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota. I donated his boots, and notes on his career, to them.”

Reader’s Note: The difference between Muhammad Ali and Tommy Morrison at the point of their cases reaching the United States Supreme Court is Ali was alive and wanted to resume his career after refusing to be drafted into the Vietnam War. Morrison has been dead over five years, and the lack of timeliness will be weighed versus the force of Mr. Morrison’s case against Quest. The judgment of this reporter is Tricia Morrison’s case has legitimate merit and factual evidence, but the lawsuit would have been better served by Tommy if it were filed and claimed immediately in 1996 when he was alive.




Tommy Morrison’s U.S. Supreme Court case has provided key facts in terms of what happened to Morrison as it has worked its way through the court levels in the past four years. Also, Morrison did not present a new HIV for the public’s satisfaction test back in 2007 when he made his comeback, which would have resolved all question. If Quest did not test for the virus, and no overnight test result was possible, where did the Morrison HIV test claim the NSAC presented come from, and why? Owing to the passage of time, Tricia Morrison’s questions may never be answered, or in the least, completely answered before she departs the United States to visit her mother in her native country, the United Kingdom, shortly. She will be in ‘the corner’ on Friday, November 16, 2018, for Tommy Morrison’s last and most valiant fight. This reporter wishes her well. The ghost of Tommy Morrison will have his last hurrah. Mrs. Morrison, whose sons are both in the states, will be remaining in the United States for good after the soul and spirit of Tommy Morrison faces the final judgment day before the high court of nine.

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The Lady From Windsor: Female Lightweight Champion Kara Ro Interview

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

On Friday evening, February 8, 2019, at a Carlos Llinas promotions boxing card at Motor City Casino’s Sound Board venue in Detroit, Michigan, retired undefeated Women’s International World Lightweight champion Kara Ro sat down for an exclusive interview with Real Combat Media. Kara Ro, ‘The Lady From Windsor’, hails from Windsor, Canada, is married with two children, currently works as a professional boxing and MMA trainer in Detroit, Michigan, and has her own radio show.

Ro and Laila Ali are the only two retired undefeated female world boxing champions.
Roe posted a professional ring record of 17-0 between 2002 and 2011 in a championship boxing career interrupted off and on by injuries, and extended recovery periods.

Robert Brizel: “What are you doing now, Kara?”

Kara Ro: “I train 11-0 Michigan super middleweight Anthony Barnes, a 165 pounder. I also coach MMA, the UFC’s top fighters for Horizon Company. I train the fighters at Michigan top team, both types of fighters in Detroit.”

Robert Brizel: “Your pro boxing career ended in 2011. Why did you stop?”

Kara Ro: “I had a back injury which couldn’t be fixed. I couldn’t walk for a year and a half. Finally, a doctor did fix my back, with spinal compression.”

Robert Brizel: “And then?”

Kara Ro: “I had two world title fights which were cancelled (due to my ongoing injury issues). So, I retired, and had my two children. It was about time (to move onto the family stage of my life with my husband). My husband would support me if I want to make a comeback at any point, but I have opted not to. I (still) think about making a comeback every single day! I have 15 fighters I am now coaching, 12 of them professional. I also have my own radio show, The TKO Show, which is for talk radio and opinion (not boxing).”

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Boxing Postman Ernesto Garza III RCM Interview: Thank You ShoBox!

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

*Photo Credit: RoundbyRoundBoxing.com

Boxing postman and super bantamweight southpaw Ernesto Garza III, who delivers mail by day, and knocks them out by night, is back in the ring and back in the news. The David McWaters and Eddie Jaafar co-managed Mexican American pride of Michigan is back.

On the February 16, 2019, USA Showtime ShoBox telecast, the commentators noted Jesse Angel Hernandez’ 10 round bout last year with Ernesto Garza in Verona, New York, had resulted in a No Contest, as Hernandez tested positive for marijuana. Garza knocked down Hernandez in the second round, but was originally on the short end of a split decision. The online BoxRec internet records needs to be corrected as a result.


Garza, 9-3 with five knockouts, Saginaw, Michigan, who delivers rural mail part-time for the United States Postal Service, inactive over a year since the Hernandez bout, sounded upbeat as he prepared for his comeback bout, a scheduled six round main event bout against 9-5 Hungarian journeyman Jeno Tonte, on February 23, 2019, at the Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, Michigan.

Robert B: “Did you see the ShoBox telecast last night?”

Ernesto Garza: “Unfortunately not the entire telecast, just the clip at the beginning when Hernandez walked out for his bout with Thomas Patrick Ward, and the commentators mentioned my no contest bout with Hernandez, due to Hernandez testing positive for marijuana.”

Robert B: “How did you feel when they acknowledged the no contest?”

Ernesto Garza: “I feel great because it’s not a loss on my record. I was happy about that.”

Robert B: “Did you feel you got robbed of the split decision against Hernandez in Verona?”

Ernesto Garza: “Of course! I felt the decision should have been mine off the bat. I felt I won that fight, and totally dominated Hernandez through all the rounds.”

Robert B: “Why were you inactive for one year? Why haven’t you fought?”

Ernesto Garza: “Due to my left hand. Michigan doctors told me my hand was broken on ShoBox and needed surgery. Basically I waited a year, and my hand healed on its own. I was running, keeping myself in condition. Just couldn’t hit anything.”

Robert B: “When could you hit the speed bag and heavy bag again?”

Ernesto Garza: “January. I have had a month of sparring, hitting the speed bag and heavy bag, and the pads.”

Robert B: “How do your hands feel now?”

Ernesto Garza: “Good. They’re great! My hand is healed, my career is back on track.”

Robert B: “What do you know about your next opponent, Hungarian Jeno Tonte?”

Ernesto Garza: “He’s moving up in weight from flyweight. He has got fast hands. I have seen his videos on YouTube. He throws mostly winging uppercuts and wild shots while running.”

Robert B: “So, how will you fight him?”

Ernesto Garza: “Box, put pressure on him, and hopefully stop him with body shots. I should stop him in the first round. From the two YouTube videos I have seen where Tonte got stopped, he was running and throwing a lot of wild punches, not really boxing. I can break him down early, especially with my power.”

Robert B: “Would you fight a rematch with Hernandez again?”

Ernesto Garza: “I wouldn’t mind giving Hernandez another beating.”

Robert B: “Do you think Hernandez’ marijuana will help him the second time?”

Ernesto Garza: “No! Quite honestly, I don’t think his marijuana helped him the first time either. If he wants to fight me again, I will knock him out within six rounds. I am willing to fight Jesse Angel Hernandez again, anywhere, anyplace, anytime. When I fought Hernandez, is right was horribly swollen shut, purple, black and blue. The next time I’ll make sure his left eye is swollen shut too.”

Robert B: “Will you stay at super bantamweight after your comeback bout next week?”


Ernesto Garza: “No. I have a serious long-range game plan. After this bout, I plan to go down to a more effective 116 pounds. While not taller, I believe I will be a lot stronger than most of the fighters at that weight, and well on my way to becoming a world champion in the lower weight class, as opposed to the higher weight division I am fighting in now.”

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Brian MVP Howard RCM Interview: Scores BIG cruiserweight KO in Philly

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

*Photo Credit: Boxing247 

A native of Lake Wells, Florida, now based out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, working as a security guard, world ranked cruiserweight Brian ‘MVP’ Howard scored an electrifying win at Parx Casino in Bensalem on March 1, 2019, knocking out former USBA Cruiserweight champion Garrett at 2:31 of the first round. Howard has a record of 14-2 with 11 knockouts, since turning pro in May 2010 with a third-round stoppage of Yuwshua Zadok in Atlanta, Georgia.

Robert B: “Why did you fight Umar Salamov last year at light heavyweight in the wrong division?”

MVP Howard: “At the time, I needed the money. I was weaker (from the weight loss). I still had knockout power in my right hand, but did not have the energy to put him away after the first minute of every round. I felt gassed out. Salamov seemed winded after the fifth round.”


Robert B: “What happened in the ninth round against Salamov?”

MVP Howard: “I got caught with a shot, I couldn’t hear, and lost my equilibrium. I got up at the count of eight, but the referee waved the bout over. I could not finish the fight.”

Robert B: “Did you feel Salamov was beatable?”

MVP Howard: “Of course Salamov was beatable.”

Robert B: “What happened in your fight with Harvey Jolly?”

MVP Howard: “I went into that fight injured after getting hit behind the head in sparring. I blacked out (in the ring against Jolly).”

Robert B: “Tell me about your first round knockout of Garrett Wilson last week.”

MVP Howard: “I will fight and beat anyone anywhere! I have done it (all) on the road. I beat Alex Guerrero in New York, Phil Williams in Minnesota, and Garrett Wilson in Pennsylvania.”


Robert B: “Would you be willing to fight a rematch with Harvey Jolly? Would you be willing to travel to South Africa to fight IBO World Cruiserweight champion Kevin Larena? That would be interesting. You have never traveled that far(to fight).”

MVP Howard: “That’s what makes it interesting.”

Robert B: “Tell me about your relationship with promoter Russell Peltz.”

MVP Howard: “Russell is very cool! He is trying to get me a fight in the next 30 days, which I believe will be at 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. I am looking forward to fighting in Philly again!”

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Gazija! Bosnian Prince Armin Mrkanovic Interview: Fights for WBA Title on March 31

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

In Bosnian, ‘Gazija’ means ‘untouchable holy warrior’. In a Real Combat Media exclusive interview, The Bosnian Prince, cruiserweight contender Armin ‘Gazija’ Mrkanovic, is finally making noise. Mrkanovic will be fighting 35 bout veteran Wilmer Mejia for the vacant World Boxing Association Fedecaribe Cruiserweight title on March 31, 2019, at Club Plaza Valerio, Santiago de los Caballeros.

Robert B: “Armin, what do you think about Errol Spence Jr. versus Mikey Garcia tonight in Arlington, Texas? Do you think it is a great fight, or a matchup stinker?”

Armin: “I think it’s going to be fireworks the whole fight! I think one of them is going to go down early!”

Robert B: “Why fight for a WBA title now?”

Armin: “The WBA belt was vacant, and I have been in shape 365 days a year, so it’s always a good time to fight for a belt, especially if it makes sense.”

Robert B: “How do you feel about fighting for the first time in the Dominican Republic in the tropics?”

Armin: “I’m actually looking forward to it. I might get some suntan too!”

Robert B: “Armin, Wilmer Mejia is a 20 year 35 bout veteran of experience who has been in WBC and WBA regional title bouts. Mejia is a southpaw. How will you deal with his southpaw stance and his vast range of ring experience?”

Armin: “We know he has a lot of mileage under his belt, (so) we will be fully prepared for whatever he brings to the ring. Being a southpaw (myself), I fight both orthodox and southpaw stances (as a fighter), so it doesn’t matter to me.”

Robert B: “There has been much Bosnian ‘much ado’ trash talk about you fighting Eden Puhalo of Bosnia, whose record has been padded with numerous sardines. Do you still want to travel to Bosnia and fight Puhalo? Have he or his camp responded to your taunts and challenges for an all-Bosnian war in Bosnia at some point in the future?”

Armin: “I’d be more than happy to go back to my motherland and fight anybody, Puhalo or whoever, in front of my home crowd. I think it’s everybody’s fighter’s dream, hearing their people chant for you.”

Robert B: “Is Puhalo a real challenger, or is he a chicken little?”

Armin: “Any man who steps inside the ring and puts gloves on is a real challenge. Now, some men, have more still than the other, and I don’t think Puhalo has (so) much skill (that) I should be worried about it.”

Robert B: “What about that forty-something cruiserweight Kai Kursawa Puhalo just beat in Germany? Was he a bum?”

Armin: “He (Kursawa) was one of the sardines given to Puhalo to snack on.”

Robert B: “What belt would be sufficient to fight Puhalo in Bosnia? Your WBA belt? His WBO European belt? Or what belt? Does it matter?”

Armin: “It doesn’t matter, but it has to be a belt. There’s still a million people out there, (so whoever I fight) it has to make sense. I don’t want to pick on him as a (fellow) Bosnian. But, if he’s got something I want (as in the European cruiserweight title), then it makes sense. Anybody can get it (go after the title).”

Robert B: “Who have you been sparring with?”

Armin: “Former world cruiserweight Marco Huck is training with me here in the states from Germany, and I’ve been getting (in) world class championship (level) sparring with Marco and most of the Gleason’s guys from Gleason’s, which is full of world champions.”

Robert B: “Who are you friends with in the gym?”

Armin: “Juan Guzman is a trainer in the gym, he’s a friend of mine. Mikkel LesPierre, Jarrell ‘Big Baby’ Miller, the future heavyweight champion of the world.”

Robert B: “Your trainer is……”

Armin: “My trainer is Hector Roca (the trainer of Arturo Gatti), who I’ve been with for 22 years, and on March 31, 2019, I am going to give him a WBA title as a present for his eightieth birthday!”

Robert B: “Is there anyone out there you really want to fight?”

Armin: “Anybody that’s going to help me better my career, and has a belt around their waist, is a target. (I’m) strictly business, no feelings attached.”

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Andy Zak and Joe Goossen RCM Interview: Sergey Lipinets and More! Part I.

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

In a spontaneous unrehearsed Real Combat Media international interview exclusive, world-renowned boxing trainer Joe Goossen. Joe is currently training former International Boxing Federation World Super Lightweight champion Sergey Lipinets for his 12 round USA Fox Sports 1 welterweight main event bout against Lamont Peterson this Sunday, March 24, 2019, and Lipinets team co-managers Andy Zak and Alex Vaysfeld, talked with Real Combat Media sportswriter Robert Brizel about this weekend’s critical crossroads bout at MGM Harbor, in Oxen Hill, Maryland. Lipinetz, 14-1 with 12 knockouts, Beverly Hills, California, is currently being trained by Goossen at the Ten Goose Boxing Gym in Van Nuys, California. Also discussed were team welterweight Adrian Granados and team super welterweight prospect Vernon Brown.

On the USA Fox Sports FS1 card, the opening televised bout will feature a prospect managed by the Andy Zak-Alex Vaysfeld and Alex Mezhirovski team, 10-0-1 Chicago, Illinois southpaw Vernon Brown, who will face another southpaw prospect, 13-1 Jamontay Clark on Cincinnati, Ohio, in a 10 round critical prospects crossroads bout.

Co-Manager Andy Zak: “He (Sergey) was previously trained by Buddy McGirt. We made a better move. Sergey is a totally different fighter (now that he is being trained by) with Joe Goossen. He’s going to be on the attack right away. We are going to try to take away Lamont Peterson’s heart right away in the first round.”

Robert Brizel: “everybody’s is talking about Joe Goossen, the trainer king of kings, maybe only second to Freddie Roach out there now. Why do you think Joe Goosen finds it rewarding to work with Sergey Lipinets? Why do you think they are a good team?”

Co-Manager Andy Zak: “I think Joe Goossen is a perfect fit for Sergey, being that it’s a perfect style (of boxing) he teaches. Joe is right up Sergey’s alley. Sergey has never felt more comfortable with anybody (like he does training with Joe). Since he’s been with Joe, I think it is the best situation possible. We will (all) see come Sunday night how special this relationship is, because I really think it is going to shine.”

Robert Brizel: “You also represent Adrian Granados, who we all saw beat Amir Imam, get robbed against Adrien Broner (WBC Silver title loss in 12) and Javier Fortuna (who mysteriously fell out of the ring in the fourth round No-Contest). He’s been in with Shawn Porter. It does seem like Granados has been on the ‘B’ side of a lot of fights. What is Granados doing differently for his upcoming fight in May with Danny Garcia than he has done before?”

Co-Manager Andy Zak: “Granados has the same team, but he is training for the Garcia bout for the first time in the state of California, instead of his native Chicago. We first signed him when he got robbed by Top Rank when he fought Brad Solomon. Solomon went to the hospital after that fight. Granados was ready to retire. I said no, you are not ready to retire, we’re gonna do this. I put him back on the road, he fought all over the place. Granados fought in Arizona, he fought in California, he got five wins in a row, and we were lucky enough to do a deal with Don King, and we went in and upset Amir Imam. We had our opportunity with (Adrian) Broner. We got robbed (10 round split decision loss). We’ve had some tough fights, some tough calls. When you mentioned that last fight when the kid (Javier Fortuna) dove out of the ring. It was unfortunate because we were winning that fight from round one on.”

Robert Brizel: Boxing is a ring of opportunities. Broner just lost to Pacquiao and is back in trouble with the law. Fortuna just decisioned Bogiere. Brad Solomon’s career went nowhere (inactive for about a year). Do you think Granados will have his moment with Danny Garcia?”

Co-Manager Andy Zak: “Garcia has fought all the greats at 140 (pounds), but I think he is not as legitimate a fighter at 147 as Granados is.

The following excerpt represents the Joe Goossen portion of the Brizel interview.

I think Danny Garcia is a perfect match for Adrian. I think it is going to be a great fight! If Granados is peaking like he did with Amir Imam, he can win this fight through attrition. We are going to break Danny Garcia down. Granados is training in Buddy McGirt’s gym in the San Fernando Valley.”

Robert Brizel: “Who are some of the other fighters you are working with?”

Co-Manager Andy Zak: “We have the (televised) opener on Sunday night, somebody nobody’s ever heard of, 10-0-1 super welterweight prospect Vernon Brown, who’s fighting 13-1 Jamontay Clark, a prospect who just got beat by Jeison Rosario, who knocked Clark out of the ring in Minneapolis. This is going to be an interesting fight! We’re looking at both kids who are southpaws. Vernon Brown is our kid form Chicago. This kid’s got power in both hands, so watch out! It could be an explosive first fight.”

Robert Brizel: “You are going with your fighter Sergey Lipinets into the MGM National Harbor in Maryland in Lamont Person’s backyard (Washington, D.C.). DO you think there is a chance Peterson might just try to survive the fight (for 12 rounds) and try to steal it? (the decision). How do you feel about fighting in Peterson’s back yard?”

Co-Manager Andy Zak: “I really don’t have a problem with it. I’ve been fighting in peoples’ backyards (our fighters) all day long. I think Sergey is so strong, it’s not going to make a difference where we fight. Certainly there are some cases when we don’t want to fight in someone’s backyard, because we’re gonna get robbed. I think fighting in this guy’s backyard, as you (Robert) predicted (in your preview), we are gonna knock Peterson out.”

Robert Brizel: “In the 147 pound, does Lipinets really want to take a shot at a Terence Crawford, or an Errol Spence Jr., or a Manny Pacquiao? Keith Thurman? Where do you want to go with this?”

Co-Manager Andy Zak: “I tell you, Robert, we would really like to fight Shawn Porter Errol Spence Jr. and Terence Crawford could be down the road, it’s a little quick for that yet. I think Shawn Porter definitely, or any of the other prospects out there in the top ten. Pacquiao is right there, but Pacquiao is a longshot. We would love to fight him, but he’s eyeing a fight with either Errol Spence Jr. or Floyd Mayweather Jr. again.”

Robert Brizel: “Would you fight Adrian Broner?”

Co-Manager Andy Zak: “Absolutely. Another kid I represent, who just beat Francisco Santana on Fox television two weeks ago, could also fight Broner, Abel Ramos. He’s a great kid. Ramos also has a nephew, Jesus Alejandro Ramos, who an 8-0 prospect who we (also) represent.”

Robert Brizel: “Fine looking fighter! The welterweight division is talent rich, from Sadam Ali to Humberto Soto. Does Sergey Lipinets believe he can fight his way all the way to the top of the division and become the welterweight world champion? What is his mind set?”

Co-Manager Andy Zak: “Sergey Lipinets wants to dominate at 147 pounds. He is done fighting at 140. His mind is to stay in the 147 pound class and eventually dominate the division. Sergey’s not scared of anybody, and we’ll take (fight) anybody as long as it makes sense.”

Robert Brizel: “I have to ask you this question You represent two welterweight division stars, both Adrian Granados and Sergey Lipinets at 147 pounds, in major fights. Would you put them in against each other?”

Co-Manager Andy Zak: “It would be highly unlikely to put them in with each other. I don’t see that happening, but obviously, if the fight was so rich, and both fighters were willing to take it, I wouldn’t stand in their way.”

Robert Brizel: “On the other hand, if Granados and Lipinets win their major fights, suppose you could get a double deck fight, something like Lipinets versus Porter, and Pacquiao versus Granados, something like that at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.”

Co-Manager Andy Zak: “I think Granados wants to revive his career. I think everyone knows Broner lost to Granados (won a controversial split decision), so a Granados versus Broner II (bout) would be appetizing (Marketable). It would be difficult to bring Crawford to the table, as we both work with Top Rank. Maybe that could happen, but I definitely see the Spence Porter Pacquiao Thurman, I definitely see those names at the table.”

Robert Brizel: “Who would Granados like to fight? (if he beats Danny Garcia).”

Co-Manager Andy Zak: “Granados, again, is another kid who is not afraid to fight anybody. Obviously, we are focused on Danny Garcia. This is by far his (Granados) biggest fight, and his biggest audience. He is going to be fighting in the Fox televised main event in Carson, California, in May. It is the biggest opportunity (bout) of his life. For Granados, it (the Danny Garcia fight) is a must win fight.”

Robert Brizel: “Very recently, boxing has taken a major swing in the DAZN streaming forum, where streaming is starting to overtake pay-per-view events. How does your managerial team feel about DAZN? Is the direction that DAZN is going, signing fighters onto its streaming service. Do managers like you want to be onboard with DAZN? Is DAZN a lucrative new direction for boxing?”

Co-Manager Andy Zak: “I think it is phenomenal for boxing! It opens up new doors and opportunities for fighters. I think it depends on the individual. Canelo (Alvarez) got a huge contract. Certainly it would be a great opportunity if it were given to an individual fighter of ours. Obviously, we would love the opportunity (to work with DAZN) if it were given, but look at Al Haymon. He’s still king of the hill, and he’s got Fox. Showtime, Fox Sports, ESPN Plus with Bob Arum. Boxing is on the way up again, there are so many opportunities out there. DAZN wants to put on fights (fight cards) twice a week out there in New York, I don’t know if it’s true. That’s gonna a lot of talent to keep that up once or twice a week.”

Robert Brizel: “Are you interested in MMA and boxing? Will the two ever combine?”

Co-manager Andy Zak: “I’m a straight up boxing guy. But, anything can happen in the boxing world.”

Tomorrow: Part II. of the Real Combat Media exclusive interview, featuring Joe Goossen.

The post Andy Zak and Joe Goossen RCM Interview: Sergey Lipinets and More! Part I. appeared first on REAL COMBAT MEDIA.

Joe Goossen and Alex Vaysfeld RCM Interview: Lipinets, Corrales, and Granados Part II

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

In part two of a spontaneous unrehearsed Real Combat Media international interview exclusive, world renowned boxing trainer Joe Goossen, currently training former International Boxing Federation World Super Lightweight champion Sergey Lipinets for his 12 round USA Fox Sports 1 welterweight main event bout against Lamont Peterson this Sunday, March 24, 2019, and Lipinets team co-managers Andy Zak and Alex Vaysfeld, talked with Real Combat Media sportswriter Robert Brizel about this weekend’s critical crossroads bout at MGM Harbor, in Oxen Hill, Maryland. Lipinets, 14-1 with 12 knockouts, Beverly Hills, California, is currently being trained by Goossen at the Ten Goose Boxing Gym in Van Nuys, California. Also discussed were welterweight teammates Adrian Granados and Abel Ramos.

Robert Brizel: “Hi Joe! You’ve always been one of my heroes!”

Joe Goossen: “Robert! Okay good.

Robert Brizel: “I’ve been boxing reporting for over 40 years!”

Joe Goossen: “And I don’t talk to rookies.”

Robert Brizel: “I started covering boxing with fights on CBS in 1975.”

Joe Goossen: “I was dating college cheerleaders back then.”

Robert Brizel: “You still look good! We’re both married to beautiful women so we
stay forever young.”

Joe Goossen: “We’re doing good!”

Robert Brizel: “Later we’ll discuss when your man Diego Corrales beat Castillo.”

Joe Goossen: “Ha ha ha! Thank you.” (in reference to one of the most brilliant and memorable corner man performances in boxing history by Joe Goossen).

Robert Brizel: Joe, you are working with Sergey Lipinets for the first time, and you are fighting in Lamont Peterson’s backyard (Oxen, Maryland, next to Washington, D.C., where Peterson comes from). What superior edge do you bring to the table with Lipinets, whereas he’s never worked with you before? What have you been able to find (discover about) this fighter, and what are you going to be able to bring to the table that Person’s never going to be able to deal with?”

Joe Goossen: “That’s a mouthful right there. I’m pretty good, but that was about three or four different angles you hit me with, Robert.”

Robert Brizel: “Let’s cut in down. What will we in Sergey Lipinets on Sunday (working with you) we have not seen before, with Joe Goossen as his trainer?”

Joe Goossen: “Okay. That’s a fair enough question there. I think it’s paramount with a style like Sergey’s, he’s not a backup (style fighting) guy. He doesn’t really backup much, does he?”

Robert Brizel: “No. But he has been known to counterpunch.”

Joe Goossen: “He (Sergey) has been known to counterpunch. Sergey usually ends up going after you, for the most part. Right?”

Robert Brizel: “Right.”

Joe Goossen: “So I think what I’ve done is I’ve tried to improve that aspect of his game to where the output of punches has been multiplied. His feet, we’ve worked on the speed with his feet. Sergey has a little bit faster pace on his feet.”

Robert Brizel: “Do you feel fighting Sergey in the 147 pound weight class (up from 140 pounds) will present him with any additional challenges?”

Joe Goossen: “I want to finish my point on the last thing. It was good question, Robert. Basically I think the volume of punches (is something) we’ve worked on, tightening up the defense degrees more. Also, his speed on his feet. If you want to put on pressure, you can’t follow someone around. You need to use quick feet. So, I’d say those three things: tighten up his (Sergey’s) defense; the volume of punches, quicker feet, and of course, without getting into all of my techniques and all of the things that I do where we work on more of a variety of punches, I think in combination (of my approaches) you get what I’m saying there.

Now to answer your question about the weight, Sergey is 29 (30 on March 23, Saturday). He’s solid. As I whittle him down to 149 pounds yesterday, Sergey looks so healthy and has a glow about him. We really took our time losing the weight little by little so he got adjusted to it (the weight loss) instead of crashing it (rapid weight loss to make weight). He’s got a god glow about him. He’s not sunken in. His lips are dry. We got to eat tonight. We ate breakfast this morning. The weigh-in is in a few days (Saturday) and we don’t have to lose eight or 10 pounds, we will only have to lose three or four pounds. That said, I would hate to have to say to him we have to lose seven more pounds on top of the three or four. No, for me to say to him lose 11 pounds to reach 140 pounds. No. Sergey would not look good. Sergey would not feel good. He wouldn’t be good.”

Robert Brizel: “Looking at the other side of the mirror reflection, Lamont Peterson is 5’9” to Sergey’s 5’7”, and Peterson has a 72 inch reach to Sergey’s 67 inch reach. Undoubtedly, Peterson’s camp will feel we’ve got height, we’ve got reach, maybe we can just outwork Lipinets in the same way Mikey Garcia did, and maybe we can just get the decision or steal the decision, where we can get by with the volume of [punches, and Lipinets will never manage to get inside or get close. What’s your answer to that?”

Joe Goossen: “Are you comparing our fight with Peterson to Errol Spence Jr. versus Mikey Garcia?”

Robert Brizel: “In that sense. Peterson’s got height and reach (advantage).”

Joe Goossen: “First, both Sergey and Lamont Peterson are coming up (in weight to 147 pounds) from 140. I’ve got a guy (a situation) where one guy is at equal weight par with the other guy. You agree with that? So, number one, we are not at that (weight) disadvantage like Mikey was, a guy coming up from 126 to 147 pounds. Sergey has fought bigger, taller guys his whole career. You agree with that, Robert?”

Robert: “Absolutely.”

Joe Goossen: “Yeah, and he fared quite well. The only guy he didn’t fare well with was a guy with short arms who was little (Mikey Garcia). We’ve beaten everybody else. Right?”

Robert Brizel: “Even Erick Bone (Lipinets’ last opponent) was 5’9” in height.”

Joe Goossen: “Exactly. Who was that Mexican kid that cut Sergey real bad? Walter Castillo, he was 5’10” Lipinets was able to penetrate Castillo’s tight defense. You see where I’m going with this. We’ve got a guy (Lipinets) who’s 5’9”. We can deal with that. I brought him sparring (partners) at 5’9”. Lastly, you’ve gotta have good head movement and quick feet. So…..we’re looking for a fight (from Lamont Peterson) and I think we’re gonna get one.”

Robert Brizel: “I Absolutely do (believe you are going to get a fight). Do you think the fight will carry into the championships rounds? Do you think Peterson will fight more of a survivor fight when he’s behind?”

Joe Goossen: “I’m going to presume Peterson is in the best shape of his career, and is at his best. I would assume that.”

Robert Brizel: “I wouldn’t underestimate him (Peterson).”

Joe Goossen: “It wouldn’t be professional to think otherwise. I think we (our team) is going to face the best (version of Lamont) Peterson there can possibly be Sunday night.”

Robert Brizel: “Do you think part of that is because Peterson’s back is against the wall? For Peterson this is really a do or die fight?”

Joe Goossen: “This is really a do or die fight for both of them in a big way. It really is. Peterson and Lipinets both. There is a big sweepstakes going on now in the welterweight division, (a) big sweepstakes. Right?”

Robert Brizel: “Correct.”

Joe Goossen: “And I think financially, forget competitive wise and prestige wise, but financially there’s a lot to be had now in the welterweight division. You can be matched up with one guy and the next, and put you in some good figures (big money to be made now in the 147-pound division, so I think financially it is a great incentive for Peterson (to win) and likewise (Lipinets). Ultimately, they are competitors and they (both) have a competitive desire to win, and you have to look at that first as an athlete. On the back end of that, you see the payoff.

The welterweight division is really hot right now, but also they wouldn’t train as hard as they train just because there is money involved. They don’t want to lose. They both want to win. I think the first order of the day is they are competitors, they are warriors, they both want to win, and the residual of that is there’s big payoff.”

Robert Brizel: “One more thing. Obviously we know 14 years ago, you were at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas on a magical night, and on that magical night, Diego Corrales had what will be remembered as one of the most memorable rounds in boxing history, and you were an important part of it.”

Joe Goossen: “Yes.”

Robert Brizel: “Did you learn a lot of things about heart and courage from Diego Corrales that night? Do you still think of him and his performance on that night? What did that night teach you?”

Joe Goossen: “Do I still think of Diego? All the time. It’s hard to get away from the Diego Corrales and Joe Goossen connection there, because they come out now on YouTube (with) the greatest rounds of boxing, (and) the greatest comebacks in boxing history, they are always sending me the algorithms, and Diego is always in those things, and wherever I go, people remind me of it (the Corrales win over Jose Luis Castillo). It’s something I’m going to be associated with until everything (in my boxing career) is said and done, and I’m very thankful for that. I’m very thankful for Diego because he was really one of a kind. I don’t need to expound on it, I think you l know what I mean. Diego was truly one of a kind, and I miss him dearly. What did I learn from that? Something we pretty much know about the great fighters, you never give up, you never say die, and you never quit, and I think Diego really embodied that whole notion and spirit of never quitting.”


Robert Brizel: “And Diego’s soul and spirit are still a part of you to this day.”

Joe Goossen: “Without a doubt. It’s very odd for me to think he’s still here. When I look at the films (of Diego), you can’t get away from it truthfully. Every time I look at it I go man, I’ve got kids older than Diego, he was so young (age 29 when he died, two years to the day of his win over Corrales). He was 29. He shared a lot of time in my house with my family, I can tell you that.”

Robert Brizel: “Joe, you’ve been wonderful. I want to wish you and Sergey the best of success from me and Real Combat Media. My preview of your bout is already out on Real Combat Media, and essentially what I write is I don’t’ expect Peterson to make it out (reach the final bell. I think Sergey will stop Peterson because Sergey has too many advanced skills coming into this fight with you in his corner for Peterson to overcome BUT if Peterson were to win, I would presume he would try to go the distance and try to steal it (the decision on the scorecards) but I don’t believe that’s gonna happen.”

Joe Goossen: “You have been around a long time. Just by the conversation with you, I can tell that, and look, and believe me, I’d be very grateful if the first scenario you gave me plays out! That’s what every intention I have is coming in here (to Maryland with Lipinets to fight Peterson) to play (the end result) out like that.”

Robert Brizel: “I think Sergey is a very talented fighter, and I think if Sergey listens to his corner, you’ve got another world champion on your hands. All the best.”

Joe Goossen: “I appreciate that Robert.”

Robert Brizel: “Co-manager Alex Vaysfeld, I don’t want to leave you out of all of this. How do you feel coming into this fight (with your fighter Sergey Lipinets) with Joe Goossen in your corner?”

Co-Manager Alex Vaysfeld: “Absolutely. Me and Joe go way back. We’ve known each other for a long time. He’s turned it on for Sergey. They know each other very well.”

Robert Brizel: “How have you found this ride with Sergey? It doesn’t bother you fighting in Lamont Peterson’s backyard?”

Co-manager Alex Vaysfeld: “We’ve fought on the road before. It doesn’t really matter. Who cares?”

Robert Brizel: “How do you feel about your welterweight Adrian Granados fighting Danny Garcia in May? Do you think that’s a winnable fight?”

Alex Vaysfeld: “Absolutely! If you’ve seen Granados fight, he will never make it easy for anybody.”


Robert Brizel: “How has Granados found training in California for the first time? Do you think that was a good (training location) move for him?”

Alex Vaysfeld: “He’s been here before. Right now, we’ve set Granados up here (in California) for a year. He’s got great sparring partners, one’s who will keep him sharp. The weather is just fine. Remember his fight is in California as well (against Danny Garcia in Carson on May 20) so we want Granados to stay here and acclimate.”

Robert Brizel: “Your stable actually has three outstanding fighters in the welterweight division. We should acknowledge all three of them.”

Co-Manager Alex Vaysfeld: “We’ve got Sergey Lipinets, Adrian Granados, and Abel Ramos, who defeated Francisco Santana in Carson California on March 9.”

Robert Brizel: Do you see all three of these fighters challenging against Errol Spence Jr., Danny Garcia, Manny Pacquiao, Terence Crawford, the heart of the division?”

Co-manager Alex Vaysfeld: “Yeah, all of the above. Those guys are tough, always ready to go, and like I said, give us the opportunity. It’s all about the (training) camp. When you are ready for something. It’s all good. More or less, it’s the same level of the guys (our fighters).”


Robert Brizel: “With Joe Goossen in your corner, I think Sergei has a great chance, and I do not predict Peterson will make it out (go the distance). I (do) think Peterson will show up Sunday in the best shape of his career (for this bout). I wish you, Sergey Lipinets, Joe Goossen, Andy Zak, Alex Mezhirovski and your team best for a successful outcome. I hope to speak with you again after your win on the road to success before the Granados fight.”

The post Joe Goossen and Alex Vaysfeld RCM Interview: Lipinets, Corrales, and Granados Part II appeared first on REAL COMBAT MEDIA.

Randall Bailey Interview: ‘I Will Fight Claressa Shields and Knock Her Out!’

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

In a Real Combat Media international exclusive, former world super lightweight and welterweight champion Randall ‘The Knock-Out King’ Bailey, age 45, who says he is still in the gym and ready to go in Atlanta, Georgia, has accepted the challenge of undisputed and undefeated female World Middleweight champion Claressa Shields to fight men and is willing to fight her in 2019 in a three minute per round 10 or 12 rounder in 2019 as soon as arrangements can be made. Bailey stated he will knock Shields out in the first round. Bailey called Shields out on Facebook, a startling decision which triggered this interview.


Bailey, 46-9 with 39 knockouts, has several decades of professional experience, and has fought in 18 regional and world championship bouts and titular eliminators during his career. Bailey has held the World Boxing Association, World Boxing Organization and International Boxing Association World Super Lightweight titles, and the International Boxing Federation World Welterweight title. He has fought a who’s who of name fighters and champions, from Miguel Cotto to Jeff Horn. Promoter Lou DiBella has called Randall Bailey the hardest puncher in professional boxing.

Bailey’s trainer for several years during his career was John David Jackson, the current trainer of Claressa Shields. A critical reason for Bailey accepting the Shields challenge is Bailey feels there is nothing Jackson can teach Shields he cannot expect or prepare for, given Bailey knows all of Jackson’s training techniques.

Robert Brizel: “Randall Bailey, first of all, how are you doing, champ?”

Randall Bailey: “Great, great, great.”

Robert Brizel: “Are you still in the gym? Do you have any plans (to fight again?)”

Randall Bailey: “I’m always in the gym. I don’t have any plans (to fight again at the moment). I train at a gym near my house.

Robert Brizel: “Your manager was the late Sy Stern. You guys were really close. How much did Sy mean to you, and do you think of him often?”

Randall Bailey: “Yeah, I always think of Sy (because) Sy was a significant part of my career.”


Robert Brizel: “At various points during your career when you were with Sy Stern, you were inactive.”

Randall Bailey: “That was just out of his hands. That was the boxing business.”

Robert Brizel: “The night you beat Mike Jones, old Sy climbed onto the ring apron (apron)and celebrated with you guys (your corner), jumping, laughing, crying. He (Sy) was as happy as you were.”

Randall Bailey: “Yeah. That was like a dream come true for him.

Robert Brizel: “Randall, what did you make of the whole thing with Jarrell Miller (testing positive for an illegal substance and losing his world title shot and payday) and Athony Joshua? Did Jarrell make a bad move?”

Randall Bailey: “That was definitely a bad move. First you call the guy all kinds of names at the press conference, and then you aren’t going to be there to fight him.”

Robert Brizel: “You called Claressa Shields out on Facebook. Tell about that.”

Randall Bailey: “Somebody posted about her., and I answered with I pretty much know her whole arsenal, because I was trained by her trainer John David Jackson for several years, I‘d say from about 2009 to 2012, and I know his whole arsenal (of training methods and techniques).”

Robert Brizel: “So, there is nothing which Jackson is going to teach Claressa Shields which is going to fool you?”

Randall Bailey: “Nothing. I know the whole (John David Jackson) arsenal.”

Robert Brizel: “Randall Bailey, are you calling out Claressa Shields?”

Randall Bailey: “No! She (Claressa) is calling out all male fighters to get into the real game. If she’s bringing her stuff up into the male game, then it’s all fair game. If she calling out for the male game, she gonna get it. She’s got to be willing to state (on) what conditions (she will fight a male opponent). What’s different?”

Robert Brizel: “You will be the first fighter (to agree to fight her). Do you want to fight Claressa Shields for real?”

Randall Bailey: “I’ll give her a shot. I’ll even let her wear head gear!”

Robert Brizel: “Randall, how much money would you expect to earn for a fight like this? How much money do you think male fighters, champions and ex-champions, will want for this fight (to fight Claressa Shields)?”

Randall Bailey: “I don’t’ know! I’ll just do it (fight Claressa Shields) for fun, because I like the fight, and she (Claressa) will get a good understanding of what it’s like to be at the top of the real game, not female boxing.”

Robert Brizel: “Most female fights are two minute rounds, although a few are three minute rounds.”

Randall Bailey: “She said she wants to fight three minute rounds with men. She (Claressa Shields) don’t want to fight a man for three minutes (three minute rounds)”


Robert Brizel: “Do you think that’s going to be a difficult transition for her?”

Randall Bailey: Yeah, yeah, yeah. Most definitely. When I see her fights, she (Claressa) is not getting hit the way a man hits, the way a man hits another man, to the body, to the head. There’s a big difference (in fighting styles between male boxers and female boxers).”

Robert Brizel: “You’ve earned your reputation not as a technical fighter, but as a power hitter.”

Randall Bailey: “Nah, nah, nah. There are male fighters out there with experience who are not champions (far from it) who will knock her (Claressa’s) block off. There’s a difference between men and women.”

Robert Brizel: “You mean when it comes to boxing, records can be very deceiving.”

Randall Bailey: “Yeah! Definitely.”

Robert Brizel: “You’ve been in with guys with bad records who have taken you to hell?”

Randall Bailey: “Yeah.”

Robert Brizel: “So, you know the game. Claressa Shields is now about 160 pounds. What weight will you fight her at?”

Randall Bailey: “It don’t matter. She’s a woman. She’s a woman.”

Robert Brizel: “So, you would agree to fight Claressa at 160 pounds middleweight?”

Randall Bailey: “whatever weight she wants me to come in at?”

Robert Brizel:” And how much money would make the fight right for you to take it?”

Randall Bailey: “Whatever she and the promoters want to give me!”

Robert Brizel: “So you are not so concerned with the money to fight Claressa?”

Randall Bailey: “I’m alright. I’m chilling!”

Robert Brizel: “You want to show the whole world a female fighter cannot compete with a male fighter?”

Randall Bailey: “There’s a difference. Yeah, man!”

Robert Brizel: In a three minutes per round fight, at 10 or 12 rounds, how long do you think Shields will last before she gets seriously hurt, tired, or both?”

Randall Bailey: “One round!”

Robert Brizel: “One round?”

Randall Bailey: “One round!”

Robert Brizel: “Claressa Shields has a long reach and a tall height. Do you think her reach (might give her) some advantage?”

Randall Bailey: “One round!”

Robert Brizel: “You are going to take out Claressa Shields in one round?”

Randall Bailey: “One round.”

Robert Brizel: “You are saying if Claressa Shields fights you, she’s not going to hear the bell at the end of the first round.”

Randall Bailey: “It’s a woman. It’s a woman!”

Robert Brizel: “Are you saying this in a chauvinist way, or in a professional way?”

Randall Bailey: “I’m saying it in a professional way, not in a chauvinist way. I mean, it is what it is. Women should not fight men!”

Robert Brizel: “You want to show the world…..”

Randall Bailey: “No! Not me, not me, not me. She wants to show the world she can fight men. She (is) calling men out. Men didn’t call her out.”

Robert Brizel: “Do you think this is partly caused by Claressa Shields being the most talented female fighter out there in the world, and there’s no money and no competition left for her among female fighters?”

Randall Bailey: “She said that. I haven’t heard nobody give her accolades for saying it (she wants to fight men). She’s in a different area (state of mind). Leila Ali was a mover. Christy Martin was a warrior. They did their thing very well (as female fighters of distinction during their respective careers).”

Robert Brizel: “Where do you think Claressa Shields is (compared to the fighting females greats of the past). Do you think Claressa Shields is an improving fighter?”

Randall Bailey: “If you look at the talent in her division (middleweight), the middleweight females are not doing too much skilled fighting.”

Robert Brizel: “Have the skills of Claressa Shields improved to the point where she is ready to fight a man? Or, (is it) as Shawn Porter says, she should work her way up with four, six and eight rounders (against men), to see if she can really compete against men. Your view.”

Randall Bailey: “No, I think she (Claressa) should keep fighting women.”

Robert Brizel: “There’s obviously new or little money for Claressa Shields to fight women, but she has attracted box office attention.”

Randall Bailey: “She can get endorsements. Claressa Shields has no place in the ring with a man. It’s just my thought. She has no place being in the ring with a man.”

Robert Brizel: “And you want to be the man to shut her up?”

Randall Bailey: “I don’t want to be the man to shut her up, but, I mean, if she’s up with it (willing to accept my challenge) then I’m pu with it (I’m willing to fight her).”

Robert Brizel: “And you would be willing to fight her this year? For her titles?”

Randall Bailey: “Yeah (I’ll fight her). Not for her titles.”

Robert Brizel: “A female can challenge for a male’s titles, but a male cannot challenge for a female’s titles?”

Randall Bailey: “She cannot fight a male heavyweight. She cannot fight for a male title. It will never happen.”

Robert Brizel: “You would be willing to fight Claressa Shields, three minute rounds, in a 10 or 12 rounder?”

Randall Bailey: “Tell Claressa to call me. We can make it happen.”

Robert Brizel: “John David Jackson trained you. What do you think John David Jackson would make of you fighting Claressa, being both her trainer and your former trainer? How do you think John David Jackson is going to react to this strange new development?”

Randall Bailey: “He (trainer John David Jackson) will probably say, hell no!”

Robert Brizel: “Do you think that once our interview runs (in the press). Claressa is going to run with this (Shields versus Randall Bailey) to USA Showtime, and Dmitriy Salita, her promoter?”

Randall Bailey: “I doubt it.”

Robert Brizel: “The bottom line is, Claressa Shields has run her mouth off.”

Randall Bailey: “Listen to this. This is gonna end it right now. I didn’t stop boxing by choice. I stopped boxing because of politics. That’s the difference. I didn’t stop boxing because guys were pounding my head in. I stopped fighting because of the lack of fights promoters were willing to give me (before) to fight their fighter. So, that’s the difference. They did not even want to pay me a little bit. They did not want me in the right with their fighters. “

Robert Brizel: “So what you are saying is, aside from set up fights against journeyman, they (the big promoters) did not want to fight you (against their fighters) because they didn’t want to take a chance.”

Randall Bailey: “Exactly.”

Robert Brizel: “Do you think Claressa Shields is willing to take a chance (by fighting you). Are you willing to fight Claressa Shields? Yes or no?”

Randall Bailey: “Yes.”

Robert Brizel: “What would you expect you would receive a fair payday for such a fight?”

Randall Bailey: “If they have the confidence to beat me, I’m sure (Salita Promotions) would make me a fair offer. But if they (the major promoters) don’t want to put their male fighters in with me, they sure (I believe) won’t want to put their male fighters in with me.”

Robert Brizel: “Claressa Shields says….”

Randall Bailey: “I know what she says.”

Robert Brizel: “If Claressa Shields is willing to fight you, and you are willing to fight her, the promoter (Dmitriy Salita) agrees, and USA Showtime agrees, then you will fight her in 2019?”

Randall Bailey: “If they agree, I agree.”

Robert Brizel: “Thank you very much, Randall Bailey! This story is going to get you more publicity than you got in your career!”

Randall Bailey: “They’ll think I’m a woman beater (if I beat Shields).”


Robert Brizel: “ (Former) World champion Randall Bailey says he will fight Claressa Shields and knock her out in the first round.”

Randall Bailey: “And afterwards, they (the critics) are all gonna say I’m right. They are gonna call me a woman beater.”

Robert Brizel: Let me put it this way. Regardless of the fact of whether it (the proposed bout) involves a woman or a man, Claressa Shields is calling out all men.”

Randall Bailey: “That’s true. She (Claressa) is calling out all men.”

Robert Brizel: “During your career, when anyone has ever called you out, you have accepted every challenge.”

Randall Bailey: “I sure did.”

Robert Brizel: “You were never in the ring with Floyd. What would you think if I told you of Floyd Mayweather Jr. fighting Claressa Shields in Las Vegas. Is that a crazy publicity stunt?”

Randall Bailey: “Not far fetched. It could happen.”

Robert Brizel: “Because Floyd could make a lot of money?”

Randall Bailey: “But you know what? Claressa will have to beat a man first.”

Robert Brizel: “So, you think for Claressa to fight Floyd, she would have to beat someone like you first prove herself.”

Randall Bailey: “Yeah. She would have to beat a man first (to earn the right to fight Floyd).”

Robert Brizel: “And you, Randall Bailey, are going to be the roadblock which shows the world Claressa Shields is not as good a fighter as she thinks she is, at least in terms of fighting real men who know how to fight.”

Randall Bailey: “Exactly.”

The post Randall Bailey RCM Interview: ‘I Will Fight Claressa Shields and Knock Her Out!’ appeared first on REAL COMBAT MEDIA.

Heavyweight Sherman Williams New Interview: Calls Out Alexander Povetkin, Talks Ike Ibeabuchi, and More!

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

Alexander Povetkin is scheduled to fight in Chicago, Illinois, on Saturday, May 18, 2019, but has no opponent for his scheduled 10 rounder yet listed, with less than 10 days to go.

Heavyweight veteran Sherman ‘The Caribbean Tank Tank’ Williams, 42-15-2 with 24 knockouts, age 46, Freeport, Bahamas, a winner of his last five bouts, including a 35 second knockout of Stacey Frazier in Nassau, Bahamas, of April 13, 2019, has a message for the number five heavyweight contender, former WBA World Heavyweight champion Alexander Povetkin of Russia, age 39, whose last bout was a title stoppage loss to World Heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua. Williams is ready to give Povetkin an education and retire him. At age 46, with a recent win, legally, at least some states and Russia will still license Williams and allow him o fight.

Sherman Williams: “I want to fight Alexander Povetkin now! Styles make fights! We can have a shootout at the O.K. Corral in Chicago, Illinois. We can have the shootout at the O.K. Corral in Chicago, or I will fight him in Moscow. Anywhere, anyplace, anytime. We can do it (the fight) in Moscow as well. As long as the money is right, we can fight. Period. I will take the fight to Alexander Povetkin, expose him, and stop him!”

Robert Brizel: “What you mean by the O.K. Corral is a slugfest, a shootout. Does that mean only one man will be left standing? At age 40, the odds will be even, more sauce for the goose. And if he’s forced to go the distance, it will be damaging even if he steals the decision?”

Sherman Williams: “Yes! Correct.”

Robert Brizel: “Do you think Alexander Povetkin is afraid of you?”

Sherman Williams: “They (Alexander Povetkin’s people) cannot say nobody will fight him. ( I will) That’s right! This is a legitimate challenge!”

Robert Brizel: “Former top ranked heavyweight Ikemefula Ibeabuchi will be getting out of jail in four months, and hopes to become an American citizen and still make a comeback in the ring at age 47 after 20 years out of the ring. Your thoughts on Ibeabuchi’s comeback, and where his abilities might still be.”

Sherman Williams: “If Ike Ibeabuchi still has the desire for the ring, and his heart is still in it, he can be a top contender again. He will be a top contender again.”

Robert Brizel: “Explain the difference between the old school fighters of the 1990s and 2000s, who fought tough fights against the best of the best, and the padded undefeated records of the rising supposed heavyweight contenders today.”

Sherman Williams: “I think the difference is the fighters of the nineties and 2000s fought everyone, the mix, but today everyone is padded with paid for bouts until they are 10-0 or 15-0 with no real challenge, no real depth, with very little ability to fight in a (real) dogfight.”

Robert Brizel: “Which fighters called you out, then backed out? Weren’t Joseph Parker and Lucas Browne among them?”

Sherman Williams: “Yes. Joseph Parker, Lucas Browne, and Chris Arreola (asked about fighting me). They never showed me a contract.”

Robert Brizel: “You think fighters today are looking for easy fights, so they were and are (still) afraid to fight you?”

Sherman Williams: “Absolutely! Fighters today look for sure wins. Look at the Anthony Joshua scenario. They pick(ed Andy Ruiz Jr.) who they believe is the weakest link.”

Robert Brizel: “So you do not think Andy Ruiz Jr. is a serious challenge for Anthony Joshua?” (at Madison Square Garden on June 1, 2019, replacing Jarrell Miller)

Sherman Williams: “No, not from their point of view.”

Robert Brizel: “Via the grapevine, it has been said you want a 10 round rematch with former WBO World Heavyweight champion Joseph Parker, who you lost a 10 round decision to previously? Is this true? Why Joseph Parker?”

Sherman Williams: “Yes, because styles make fights, and I think I would knock him out (in a rematch). The scorecards in New Zealand in 2014 did not tell the true story of our first fight. Parker got a hometown decision. Well, we (my corner knew going over to New Zealand) knew we had (would have) to knock Joseph Parker out when we fought for the WBO Asian Pacific title. All three judges were from New Zealand (in New Zealand), and there was not one international judge.”

Robert Brizel: “You have done co-promotions in Nassau, Bahamas with Bahamian Sons Promotions. Your last card which you headlined on April 13, 2019, featured some young talent (six professional debuts of young Bahamas fighters). Tell about that.”

Sherman Williams: “Our boxing promotions in Nassau, Bahamas, are a platform launched to promote and showcase young and upcoming talent in the Caribbean.”

Robert Brizel: “Sherman, if you ended your career fighting for one of the many belts you have held or fought for previously, which belt would you like to fight for and win in your final bout, whenever that day comes?”

Sherman Williams: “It would be the World Boxing Federation World Heavyweight title (my no-contest with Evander Holyfield prevented me from winning it) or the World Boxing Organization Asian Pacific Heavyweight title. I’m ready to fight any of the top contenders in the heavyweight division today. I would go 12 rounds, and possibly stop a few of them. I have not gotten any calls for Europe, not recently. Tough durable fighters never get called out. The name of the game of the promoter is to get a guy who you can win over, that’s ninety percent of the boxing game today.”

Robert Brizel: “So, you are saying the better you are, the fewer fights you are going to get?”

Sherman Williams: “Of course! Everybody (in boxing with means) looks (is looking) for safe fights, winnable fights. That’s the way the heavyweight division is today.”

Robert Brizel: “And you are not viewed as safe? (a safe opponent)”

Sherman Williams: “No! Not at all.”

Robert Brizel: “Anthony Joshua. Tyson Fury. Deontay Wilder. Dillian Whyte. Jarrell Miller. If you could fight any and all of them right now, what would happen between you and each of these top flight heavyweights in the ring? Do they impress you?”

Sherman Williams: “A few do (impress me). I would give them more than they could handle, and possibly stop a few of them. Styles make fights. When a fighter is challenged and pressed, it’s when you see the best of the fighter. At 46, given the opportunity, I would be at my best. I have age and experience, and know how to scrap in a dogfight.”

Robert Brizel: “Like yourself, what will be Ike Ibeabuchi’s greatest asset that the rest will overlook?”

Sherman Williams: “Ike Ibeabuchi has heart and experience. He got the hardness and the grit that he left 20 years ago. The determining factor would be his will.”

Robert Brizel: “You mean he can impose his will on other fighters?”

Sherman Williams: Yes. Meaning, like myself, I don’t think Ibeabuchi is afraid of anybody else out there.”

Robert Brizel: “And, in the end, he will still be standing?”

Sherman Williams: “Yes. Will he (Ike Ibeabuchi) be given the opportunity? That’s the question mark. That’s the hardest part. Getting the opportunity (in boxing today).”

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The post Heavyweight Sherman Williams New RCM Interview: Calls Out Alexander Povetkin, Talks Ike Ibeabuchi, and More! appeared first on REAL COMBAT MEDIA.