The US has a number of very young but very, very promising prospects coming through at the moment with one of those being 20 year old Frankie Gomez (12-0, 9) a fighter many are tipping as a sure-fire star of the future. Not only due to his links with Golden Boy Promotions and their head honcho Oscar De La Hoya, who has praised Gomez highly since he signed but also his exceptional amateur pedigree.
Gomez first became a "fighter to watch" in 2007 when he won the 54KG division at the World Cadet Championships in Baku. On route to winning the competition he stopped 3 of his 4 opponents, with only finalist Elvin Aliyev managing to survive the schedule with Gomez.
Gomez's success would continue in the amateur as he went on to claim the 2009 US National Championships, beating the highly touted Jose Benevidez Jr in the final. Whilst the victory over Benevidez was a notable win, the year just got better for Gomez who went on to claim the Silver medal at the 2009 World Championships, losing in the final to Cuban superstar Rosniel Iglesias (who went on to claim Gold at the 2012 Olympic Games).
Following his amateur success Gomez decided to turn professional in 2010 rather than remaining in the amateur ranks for the 2012 Olympic Games. He swiftly signed on to Oscar De La Hoya's "Golden Boy Promotions" and made his professional debut in April of that year stopping Clayvonne Howard in the 3rd round of a bout on the under-card of Bernard Hopkins v Roy Jones Jr II.
By the end of 2010 Gomez had swiftly and effectively moved his professional record on to 7-0 (6) with only the experienced Ramon Montano managing to survive the distance. The following year saw Gomez continue his development, and his winning run as he scored 5 more wins (3 by T/KO) however for the first time as a professional he struggled as the under-rated Adrian Granados pushed him close.
Since defeating James Hope in December 2011, Gomez hasn't fought, however he returns to the ring this coming Saturday to face experienced Mexican Manuel Leyva (21-9, 12). Whilst on paper Leyva is a good opponent, it needs to be noted that Leyva ia 1-7 in his last 8 contests dating back over 3 years and has been stopped 5 times over those 8 bouts.
Thursday, 1 November 2012
Wednesday, 31 October 2012
Tyron Zeuge
In the past boxing's super power has been America with a high number of big fights and top fighters all hailing from the states. In recent years however boxing has grown in popularity across Europe with Germany now becoming a major player in both the top fights and top fighters.
Germany has become a bit of safe haven for not only boxers from around Eastern Europe, such as the Klitschko's from the Ukraine or Arthur Abraham from Armenia, but also boxers from around the world, such as Cuban Yoan Pablo Hernandez and Brit Ola Afolabi. Despite this Germany also has a crop of their own, home grown fighters and one such fighter is the very promising youngster Tyron Zeuge (3-0, 3).
The 20 year old Zeuge, a talented Super Middleweight turned professional earlier this year following an excellent amateur career that saw him winning various national and international championships. Included in those competition victories were the 2009 European Youth Championships (75KG) and the 2010 German National Championships (81KG) (amongst many others) as Zeuge became one of the most highly sought after amateurs in Germany.
After missing out on a place at the World Amateur Champions in 2011 Zeuge seemed set to turn professional however he remained an amateur until the end of 2011 allowing him to compete at the 2011 German National Championships (where he was controversially beaten in the semi final). In early 2012 he finally made the long awaited move over to the professional ranks and in March Zeuge made his professional debut by stopping the over-matched Yauheni Bohdanouski in just 74 seconds.
Just weeks after his professional debut Zeuge secured his second victory as a professional by stopping Venezuelan born Italian Santo Drago in 3 rounds, becoming the first man to stop Drago in 7 bouts. More recently Zeuge stopped Spanish based Ecuadorian Carlos Caicedo, also in 3 rounds. Whilst Caicedo might not be anything special, the fact that Zeuge, in just his 3 bout as a professional, did a quicker job on him than the much more experienced "world level" Dimitri Sartison is rather impressive (it took Sartison 5 rounds).
Zeuge is looking for his fourth professional win this coming weekend when he faces unbeaten Belgian Matingu Kindele (3-0). Hopefully a win over Kindele will help Zeuge progress on to more meaningful bouts as he continues his development, however at just 20 years old he has a lot of time to develop and the natural ability to really become something special.
Germany has become a bit of safe haven for not only boxers from around Eastern Europe, such as the Klitschko's from the Ukraine or Arthur Abraham from Armenia, but also boxers from around the world, such as Cuban Yoan Pablo Hernandez and Brit Ola Afolabi. Despite this Germany also has a crop of their own, home grown fighters and one such fighter is the very promising youngster Tyron Zeuge (3-0, 3).
The 20 year old Zeuge, a talented Super Middleweight turned professional earlier this year following an excellent amateur career that saw him winning various national and international championships. Included in those competition victories were the 2009 European Youth Championships (75KG) and the 2010 German National Championships (81KG) (amongst many others) as Zeuge became one of the most highly sought after amateurs in Germany.
After missing out on a place at the World Amateur Champions in 2011 Zeuge seemed set to turn professional however he remained an amateur until the end of 2011 allowing him to compete at the 2011 German National Championships (where he was controversially beaten in the semi final). In early 2012 he finally made the long awaited move over to the professional ranks and in March Zeuge made his professional debut by stopping the over-matched Yauheni Bohdanouski in just 74 seconds.
Just weeks after his professional debut Zeuge secured his second victory as a professional by stopping Venezuelan born Italian Santo Drago in 3 rounds, becoming the first man to stop Drago in 7 bouts. More recently Zeuge stopped Spanish based Ecuadorian Carlos Caicedo, also in 3 rounds. Whilst Caicedo might not be anything special, the fact that Zeuge, in just his 3 bout as a professional, did a quicker job on him than the much more experienced "world level" Dimitri Sartison is rather impressive (it took Sartison 5 rounds).
Zeuge is looking for his fourth professional win this coming weekend when he faces unbeaten Belgian Matingu Kindele (3-0). Hopefully a win over Kindele will help Zeuge progress on to more meaningful bouts as he continues his development, however at just 20 years old he has a lot of time to develop and the natural ability to really become something special.
Friday, 26 October 2012
Tremaine Williams
Over the past few years people have been declaring boxing in the US a dying sport. This is despite the high profile success of fighters like Floyd Mayweather Jr and the rise (and rise) of Adrien Broner and Andre Ward. Another fighter expected by many to follow in their foot steps is teenager Tremaine Williams (3-0, 2) who many insiders are tipping as one of the sports genuinely elite talents.
The 19 year old Williams first came to prominence in the amateur side of the sport where he was a genuine super talent despite being so young. In fact it's fair to say that the first glimpse of Williams' superstar potential came back when he was just a 16 year old at the 2009 USA Junior National Championships. Despite failing to win the tournament Williams shone in the 52KG division making his way to the final before losing by a single point to Ray Ximenez.
After his success in the 2009 Junior championships a lot was expected from Williams going in to the 2010 US National PAL Championships, though sadly his tournament came to an early end after just a bout as he suffered a walk-over "loss" in the Quarter-Finals to John Herrera before Rau'shee Warren eventually won the tournament.
With the disappointment of the 2010 PAL Championships behind him, Williams had an outstanding 2011. He was sensational in the US National Golden Gloves winning the tournament in the 56KG division beating Gary Russell III (the younger brother of professional prospect Gary Russell) along the way. Sadly, despite his Golden Gloves triumph, Williams did fail at the Olympic Qualifiers, losing twice to O'Shanique Foster (the eventual runner up).
Having missed out on his Olympic dream, Williams wouldn't wait long to start his professional career and in April 2012 he made his debut in the paid ranks. On debut Williams was sensational stopping Jesse Anguiano in just 141 one sided seconds as he looked every bit the star in the making. Whilst it was one sided, no one could have asked to have seen more from Williams than what he showed with poise, patience and lightning quick speed.
Since his debut Williams has fought twice, defeating Theo Johnson (KO3) and Jazzma Hogue (UD4) to progress his record against limited opposition. This coming weekend Williams is set for yet another test of his professional abilities as he fights for the fourth time in the paid ranks. A win here is almost certain and will hopefully progress Williams to facing tougher fighters that won't be shell shocked by his speed and natural ability.
Whilst we've yet to see Williams tagged by anything notable it's unlikely that any opponent he is likely to face in the next 24 months will really be too testing. Expect him to be developed well by manager James Prince who knows how to guide a young fighter very well, and hopefully by the age of 22 Williams will have managed to get the attention of a major promoter and maybe even some TV exposure on ESPN.
The 19 year old Williams first came to prominence in the amateur side of the sport where he was a genuine super talent despite being so young. In fact it's fair to say that the first glimpse of Williams' superstar potential came back when he was just a 16 year old at the 2009 USA Junior National Championships. Despite failing to win the tournament Williams shone in the 52KG division making his way to the final before losing by a single point to Ray Ximenez.
After his success in the 2009 Junior championships a lot was expected from Williams going in to the 2010 US National PAL Championships, though sadly his tournament came to an early end after just a bout as he suffered a walk-over "loss" in the Quarter-Finals to John Herrera before Rau'shee Warren eventually won the tournament.
With the disappointment of the 2010 PAL Championships behind him, Williams had an outstanding 2011. He was sensational in the US National Golden Gloves winning the tournament in the 56KG division beating Gary Russell III (the younger brother of professional prospect Gary Russell) along the way. Sadly, despite his Golden Gloves triumph, Williams did fail at the Olympic Qualifiers, losing twice to O'Shanique Foster (the eventual runner up).
Having missed out on his Olympic dream, Williams wouldn't wait long to start his professional career and in April 2012 he made his debut in the paid ranks. On debut Williams was sensational stopping Jesse Anguiano in just 141 one sided seconds as he looked every bit the star in the making. Whilst it was one sided, no one could have asked to have seen more from Williams than what he showed with poise, patience and lightning quick speed.
Since his debut Williams has fought twice, defeating Theo Johnson (KO3) and Jazzma Hogue (UD4) to progress his record against limited opposition. This coming weekend Williams is set for yet another test of his professional abilities as he fights for the fourth time in the paid ranks. A win here is almost certain and will hopefully progress Williams to facing tougher fighters that won't be shell shocked by his speed and natural ability.
Whilst we've yet to see Williams tagged by anything notable it's unlikely that any opponent he is likely to face in the next 24 months will really be too testing. Expect him to be developed well by manager James Prince who knows how to guide a young fighter very well, and hopefully by the age of 22 Williams will have managed to get the attention of a major promoter and maybe even some TV exposure on ESPN.
Thursday, 25 October 2012
Miguel Angel Gonzalez
As we all know boxers start young in Mexico, and 17 year old Miguel Angel Gonzalez (7-0, 7) was no exception to that rule when he debuted in September 2011 as just a baby faced 16 year old. Since his debut however "Miguelito" has been spoken about in glowing terms by the likes of WBC head honcho Jose Sulaiman (who mentioned "Miguelito" on his Suljosblog).
Gonzalez debuted against Mexican tomato can Javier Castro (currently 1-12 (1), having won his last fight) and forced an opening round stoppage after just 152 seconds. Whilst the performance wasn't great Gonzalez did what he needed to to get the win under his belt and ease his nerves in the ring. Just weeks later Gonzalez returned to the ring and defeated the debuting Joaquin Morales (KO1) and managed to end the year with his 3rd successive opening round KO win, this time stopping Norberto Gamez.
After a busy 2011, Gonzalez kept up his busy schedule and fought for the first time this year way back in February stopping Antonio Gonzalez (KO2) in brutal fashion leaving his namesake on the canvas down and out. Shockingly, this has been "Miguelito's" only bout to progress beyond the opening round as he has since rolled off 3 more opening round victories including stopping debutant Santos Lozoya and the previously unbeaten Francisco Camargo in just 44 seconds!
Having had things his own way so far, Gonzalez is expected to be tested for the first time this weekend as he faces the 2-0 Emir Montano. Whilst Montano is yet to score a stoppage, he is also yet to decisively lose a round in his professional career. Whilst not much is known about Montano it's fair to assume he will not be wanting to roll over and give up his unbeaten record with out a fight which is why this is hopefully going to be a decent test for Gonzalez.
Whilst I'm not great at Spanish, it seems as if Miguelito is actually the brother of Robert "Tito" Manzanarez (20-0, 16) (however this maybe a case of brothers being "boxing brothers" rather than biological brothers) however from his record it's fair to say that bother men have a few things in common. Both are young, exciting, hard hitting Mexicans who are likely to go a very long way in this sport.
It may be a whilst before "Miguelito" is in a really notable bout, though I'd advise fight fans the world over to keep their eyes open for this kid.
Gonzalez debuted against Mexican tomato can Javier Castro (currently 1-12 (1), having won his last fight) and forced an opening round stoppage after just 152 seconds. Whilst the performance wasn't great Gonzalez did what he needed to to get the win under his belt and ease his nerves in the ring. Just weeks later Gonzalez returned to the ring and defeated the debuting Joaquin Morales (KO1) and managed to end the year with his 3rd successive opening round KO win, this time stopping Norberto Gamez.
After a busy 2011, Gonzalez kept up his busy schedule and fought for the first time this year way back in February stopping Antonio Gonzalez (KO2) in brutal fashion leaving his namesake on the canvas down and out. Shockingly, this has been "Miguelito's" only bout to progress beyond the opening round as he has since rolled off 3 more opening round victories including stopping debutant Santos Lozoya and the previously unbeaten Francisco Camargo in just 44 seconds!
Having had things his own way so far, Gonzalez is expected to be tested for the first time this weekend as he faces the 2-0 Emir Montano. Whilst Montano is yet to score a stoppage, he is also yet to decisively lose a round in his professional career. Whilst not much is known about Montano it's fair to assume he will not be wanting to roll over and give up his unbeaten record with out a fight which is why this is hopefully going to be a decent test for Gonzalez.
Whilst I'm not great at Spanish, it seems as if Miguelito is actually the brother of Robert "Tito" Manzanarez (20-0, 16) (however this maybe a case of brothers being "boxing brothers" rather than biological brothers) however from his record it's fair to say that bother men have a few things in common. Both are young, exciting, hard hitting Mexicans who are likely to go a very long way in this sport.
It may be a whilst before "Miguelito" is in a really notable bout, though I'd advise fight fans the world over to keep their eyes open for this kid.
Jorge Sanchez
Panama's boxing scene isn't thriving, though they do have some excellent fighters, one of which is the unbeaten prospect Jorge Sanchez (7-0, 5). Known as "El Bufalo" the 22 year old Sanchez is seen as one of Panama's most exciting youngsters in a generation, and with good cause as he appears to be something very special.
Sanchez made his professional debut back in February 2011 when he took a 4 round decision win over compatriot Osvaldo Diaz. By the end of the year Sanchez had swiftly added 4 more victories, stopping 3 of those 4 opponents including the previously unbeaten Jesus Munoz (TKO3) and the much more experienced Nando Vailarin (KO1). interestingly the combined record of his first 5 opponents was an impressive 20-8-3 (prior to facing Sanchez).
Whilst Sanchez' debut year was really successful, he's continued to develop well through 2012 as well scoring a further 2 victories so far, both by TKO, taking out Ezequiel Hamilton (TKO3) and Nelson Guillen (TKO2) as he's continued to improve.
Sanchez's next bout will be his toughest so far as he faces hard hitting Venezuelan Franklin Manzanilla (9-1, 8). Whilst Sanchez is rightfully considered the favourite, this is far from a bygone conclusion, due in part to the fact that Manzanilla is a genuinely hard hitter who has only gone the distance twice (including his losing effort to Nelson Guillen and a victory over the experienced Michael Isaac Carrero).
If Sanchez gets beyond Manzanilla expect him to be developed for another year or two before hopefully fighting in either Mexico or the US in 2014 before being brought on further and developed in to a title contender.
Sanchez made his professional debut back in February 2011 when he took a 4 round decision win over compatriot Osvaldo Diaz. By the end of the year Sanchez had swiftly added 4 more victories, stopping 3 of those 4 opponents including the previously unbeaten Jesus Munoz (TKO3) and the much more experienced Nando Vailarin (KO1). interestingly the combined record of his first 5 opponents was an impressive 20-8-3 (prior to facing Sanchez).
Whilst Sanchez' debut year was really successful, he's continued to develop well through 2012 as well scoring a further 2 victories so far, both by TKO, taking out Ezequiel Hamilton (TKO3) and Nelson Guillen (TKO2) as he's continued to improve.
Sanchez's next bout will be his toughest so far as he faces hard hitting Venezuelan Franklin Manzanilla (9-1, 8). Whilst Sanchez is rightfully considered the favourite, this is far from a bygone conclusion, due in part to the fact that Manzanilla is a genuinely hard hitter who has only gone the distance twice (including his losing effort to Nelson Guillen and a victory over the experienced Michael Isaac Carrero).
If Sanchez gets beyond Manzanilla expect him to be developed for another year or two before hopefully fighting in either Mexico or the US in 2014 before being brought on further and developed in to a title contender.
Thursday, 27 September 2012
Luis Orlando Del Valle
The Super Bantamweight division is one on the most exciting division's in the sport of boxing right now with the likes of Nonito Donaire, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Abner Mares and Toshiaki Nishioka all at the top of the tree. As well as those at the top of the division it's also laden with talent on it's way up such as Japanese youngster Yukinori Oguni, Britain's fast rising Carl Frampton and Puerto Rican Luis Orlando Del Valle.
With this in mind I've decided to take a look at the unbeaten Luis Orlando Del Valle (16-0, 11) who fights in his biggest fight so far later this week as he faces former world champion Vic Darchinyan (37-5-1, 27).
The 25 year old "Orlandito" was born in Bayamon, Puerto Rico (the same city that has given us Wilfredo Vazquez, Wilfredo Vazquez Jr and recent world title challenger Francisco Palacios amongst others) and started in the sport at a young age.
By his early teens Orlando was an emerging young amateur and in 2004 he really began to make his mark on the US domestic scene as he claimed the National Golden Gloves title as well as claiming a Silver medal at the National PAL championships. The following year Orlando further proved his quality as he claimed the title at Under 19 National Amateur Championships.
By 2008 Orlando had proven himself as one of the best young fighters in the US, sadly however he had failed to make a name on the international stage and instead of continuing in the amateur he decided to turn professional, aged just 21.
On his professional debut Del Valle stopped Ray Rivera in the 3rd round with a tremendous shot, and by the end of the year he had swiftly moved to 4-0 (3). The following year saw Del Valle adding another 4 wins to his record as he moved to 8-0 (6) and although he was still fighting low level competition he was looking impressive showing the skills he had honed as an amateur.
It wasn't until June 2011 that Del Valle had his first notable fight as he took on the Vietnamese fighter Dat Nguyen for the NABA Featherweight title. In that fight Nguyen showed his toughness, but Del Valle was simply too good, too talented and too fast and won a clear (but competitive) decision.
Since beating Nguyen, Del Valle has scored 3 more wins, including a very impressive victory over the highly rated Christopher Martin. The victory over Martin has so far been the standout result on Del Valle's record though a victory over the experienced Darchinyan on Saturday night would eclipse it (despite the fact Darchinyan isn't the fighter he was down at 115lbs).
At just 25 years old "Orlandito" has plenty of time to become a star, and whilst he's certainly in a tough division he has the time and potential to make a real splash in the near future. A victory over Darchinyan is, in all honesty, expected and then hopefully he'll move on to facing a top 25 Super Bantamweight.
The video below shows highlights of Luis Orlando Del Del Valle and is thanks to xvdmrecords
With this in mind I've decided to take a look at the unbeaten Luis Orlando Del Valle (16-0, 11) who fights in his biggest fight so far later this week as he faces former world champion Vic Darchinyan (37-5-1, 27).
The 25 year old "Orlandito" was born in Bayamon, Puerto Rico (the same city that has given us Wilfredo Vazquez, Wilfredo Vazquez Jr and recent world title challenger Francisco Palacios amongst others) and started in the sport at a young age.
By his early teens Orlando was an emerging young amateur and in 2004 he really began to make his mark on the US domestic scene as he claimed the National Golden Gloves title as well as claiming a Silver medal at the National PAL championships. The following year Orlando further proved his quality as he claimed the title at Under 19 National Amateur Championships.
By 2008 Orlando had proven himself as one of the best young fighters in the US, sadly however he had failed to make a name on the international stage and instead of continuing in the amateur he decided to turn professional, aged just 21.
On his professional debut Del Valle stopped Ray Rivera in the 3rd round with a tremendous shot, and by the end of the year he had swiftly moved to 4-0 (3). The following year saw Del Valle adding another 4 wins to his record as he moved to 8-0 (6) and although he was still fighting low level competition he was looking impressive showing the skills he had honed as an amateur.
It wasn't until June 2011 that Del Valle had his first notable fight as he took on the Vietnamese fighter Dat Nguyen for the NABA Featherweight title. In that fight Nguyen showed his toughness, but Del Valle was simply too good, too talented and too fast and won a clear (but competitive) decision.
Since beating Nguyen, Del Valle has scored 3 more wins, including a very impressive victory over the highly rated Christopher Martin. The victory over Martin has so far been the standout result on Del Valle's record though a victory over the experienced Darchinyan on Saturday night would eclipse it (despite the fact Darchinyan isn't the fighter he was down at 115lbs).
At just 25 years old "Orlandito" has plenty of time to become a star, and whilst he's certainly in a tough division he has the time and potential to make a real splash in the near future. A victory over Darchinyan is, in all honesty, expected and then hopefully he'll move on to facing a top 25 Super Bantamweight.
The video below shows highlights of Luis Orlando Del Del Valle and is thanks to xvdmrecords
Monday, 3 September 2012
Miguel Berchelt
Mexican Super Featherweight Miguel Berchelt (15-0, 12) may not currently be a big name but it's hard to imagine that the 20 year old will not, sometime soon, become a name on the lips of every hardcore boxing fan.
The unbeaten fighter based in Mérida, Yucatán made his professional debut less than 2 years ago having had a solid amateur career. On Debut he stopped Armin Chan in just 2 rounds before racking up 7 more consecutive T/KO victories to swiftly move to 8-0 (8). He wasn't stopping his early opponents but he was stopping them quickly with his bouts rarely going into a 3rd round.
Miguel's T/KO streak came to an end in his ninth bout, which coincidentally was his first bout to go beyond 3 rounds. Despite going beyond 3 rounds it failed to go to the final bell as Miguel Chi got himself disqualified in round 5 following a deliberate headbutt. following his win over Chi, Berchelt was again taken beyond 3 rounds, this time stopping the unbeaten Pablo Batres in the 5th round.
Amazingly it wasn't until his 11th bout that Berchelt was taken to the final bell as the tough journeyman Cristian Palafox managed to see out the 6 round distance, though lose a clear decision.
By the end of 2011 Berchelt had swiftly moved his record to an impressive 12-0 (10) and whilst he hadn't faced anyone of note he had still be very impressive for such a youngster. It was earlier this year however that Berchelt started to really make waves. Not only did he start the year by blasting out Alberto Chuc (who had amazingly taken the hard punching Carlos Cuadras to a split decision). Berchelt then beat the previously unbeaten Carlos Orozco, dropping Orozco in round 2 on-route to a 6 round decision. Most recently Berchelt took out Sergio Lopez in 99 seconds to move to 15-0 (12).
In just a few days time Berchelt will be looking for win #16 as he faces the much more experienced Nicaraguan Berman Sanchez (26-4-3, 18) who has made his name fighting in Costa Rica. Despite losing last time out, Sanchez has scored a very notable draw with current IBF Super Featherweight champion Juan Carlos Salgado though admittedly that was way back in 2005. This should be a very credibly test for Berchelt who, if he wins, will likely move on to better fights in the near future.
Video below is thanks to porrork93 and shows an early bout of Berchelt's in which after a poor opening round he shows impressive body shots in the second before forcing the stoppage.
The unbeaten fighter based in Mérida, Yucatán made his professional debut less than 2 years ago having had a solid amateur career. On Debut he stopped Armin Chan in just 2 rounds before racking up 7 more consecutive T/KO victories to swiftly move to 8-0 (8). He wasn't stopping his early opponents but he was stopping them quickly with his bouts rarely going into a 3rd round.
Miguel's T/KO streak came to an end in his ninth bout, which coincidentally was his first bout to go beyond 3 rounds. Despite going beyond 3 rounds it failed to go to the final bell as Miguel Chi got himself disqualified in round 5 following a deliberate headbutt. following his win over Chi, Berchelt was again taken beyond 3 rounds, this time stopping the unbeaten Pablo Batres in the 5th round.
Amazingly it wasn't until his 11th bout that Berchelt was taken to the final bell as the tough journeyman Cristian Palafox managed to see out the 6 round distance, though lose a clear decision.
By the end of 2011 Berchelt had swiftly moved his record to an impressive 12-0 (10) and whilst he hadn't faced anyone of note he had still be very impressive for such a youngster. It was earlier this year however that Berchelt started to really make waves. Not only did he start the year by blasting out Alberto Chuc (who had amazingly taken the hard punching Carlos Cuadras to a split decision). Berchelt then beat the previously unbeaten Carlos Orozco, dropping Orozco in round 2 on-route to a 6 round decision. Most recently Berchelt took out Sergio Lopez in 99 seconds to move to 15-0 (12).
In just a few days time Berchelt will be looking for win #16 as he faces the much more experienced Nicaraguan Berman Sanchez (26-4-3, 18) who has made his name fighting in Costa Rica. Despite losing last time out, Sanchez has scored a very notable draw with current IBF Super Featherweight champion Juan Carlos Salgado though admittedly that was way back in 2005. This should be a very credibly test for Berchelt who, if he wins, will likely move on to better fights in the near future.
Video below is thanks to porrork93 and shows an early bout of Berchelt's in which after a poor opening round he shows impressive body shots in the second before forcing the stoppage.
Tuesday, 24 July 2012
George Groves
Throughout the short history of the Super Middleweight division the Brits have always been amongst the best in the world, in fact the first ever Super Middleweight champion was Britain's very own Murray Sutherland (who was the IBF champion back in 1984). Since Sutherland we've seen British champions such as Nigel Benn, Chris Eubank, Robin Reid, Richie Woodhall, Joe Calzaghe and current champion Carl Froch. With this in mind it should be little wonder that Britain currently has some of the top Super Middleweight prospects, including the unbeaten and very highly regarded "Saint" George Groves (14-0, 11).
The 24 year old Groves from Hammersmith, London first made his name in the amateurs where he became a 2-time ABA champion. It was whilst still fighting as an amateur that Goves and fellow British prospect James DeGale first crossed paths with the two men now having a heated rivalry which has crossed over into the professional ranks.
Groves turned professional debut following his 2008 ABA Middleweight triumph and debuted in November 2008 under the "Hayemaker" banner. On his debut Groves defeated Kirill Psonko out pointing him over 6 rounds on the same card as David Haye faced Monte Barrett.
Following his successful debut Groves was kept active stopping Romaric Hignard in 3 rounds in February of 2009 and then stopping hard hitting Brit Paul Samuels in a single round the following month. Amazingly by the end of 2009 Groves had managed to run his record to 7-0 (5) and had managed to show case his talents not only in his native UK but also in Germany as he out pointed the teak tough Kanstantsin Makhankou (UD8) on the undercard of David Haye's WBA Heavyweight title fight with Nikolay Valuev.
Groves would step up considerably in 2010 and after stopping Grigor Sarohanian (TKO3) in his first fight of the year he would go on to claim the Commonwealth Super Middleweight title by destroying the teak tough Charles Adamu in an incredibly impressive display that really put him on the map. Later the same year Groves made his US debut by stopping Alfredo Contreras (TKO6) before being involved in a war with Scottish hardman Kenny Anderson. Against Anderson (who had been given little notice for the fight) Groves was dropped twice before stopping a tiring Anderson in 6 rounds. It's the bout with Anderson that still looms over Groves' head as a professional with many feeling Groves was incredibly lucky to escape the bout with win.
In 2011 Groves managed to record another 3 wins. Firstly Groves stopped the tough Daniel Adotey Allotey (TKO4) before managing to score a notable (and controversial) majority decision win against former amateur rival, and Olympic gold medal winner James DeGale. The victory over DeGale, in what was a highly anticipated bout saw Groves maintaining his unbeaten record whilst inflicting the first professional loss to DeGale. The DeGale bout also saw Goves unifying his Commonwealth title with the British Super Middleweight title to become the #1 fighter domestically (and only behind Carl Froch in terms of Top British fighters in the division). Groves would defend both titles once, stopping former British champion Paul Smith in 2 rounds.
Since beating Smith Groves' career has been really disappointing as he's pulled out of a number of fights with various injuries. Amongst those bouts that he has pulled out of was a rematch with Kenny Anderson and a world title bout with Robert Stielgltiz. Groves however does look set to return to the ring this coming weekend as he's scheduled to face hard hitting Mexican Francisco Sierra (25-5-1, 22) and if he wins he is expected to fight again in September in Wembley. Against Sierra, Groves will go in as the favourite though he will need to be careful not to be caught by Sierra who has got genuine power and is actually going into this bout on the back of an upset against the previously unbeaten Rogelio Ruvalcaba.
Groves, trained by Adam Booth, is seen by many as a future world champion and at just 24 years old he has got a lot of time to pick up a title, though he does still make mistakes that Booth will need to iron out sooner rather than later.
The video below is thanks to JSFIGHTTV
The 24 year old Groves from Hammersmith, London first made his name in the amateurs where he became a 2-time ABA champion. It was whilst still fighting as an amateur that Goves and fellow British prospect James DeGale first crossed paths with the two men now having a heated rivalry which has crossed over into the professional ranks.
Groves turned professional debut following his 2008 ABA Middleweight triumph and debuted in November 2008 under the "Hayemaker" banner. On his debut Groves defeated Kirill Psonko out pointing him over 6 rounds on the same card as David Haye faced Monte Barrett.
Following his successful debut Groves was kept active stopping Romaric Hignard in 3 rounds in February of 2009 and then stopping hard hitting Brit Paul Samuels in a single round the following month. Amazingly by the end of 2009 Groves had managed to run his record to 7-0 (5) and had managed to show case his talents not only in his native UK but also in Germany as he out pointed the teak tough Kanstantsin Makhankou (UD8) on the undercard of David Haye's WBA Heavyweight title fight with Nikolay Valuev.
Groves would step up considerably in 2010 and after stopping Grigor Sarohanian (TKO3) in his first fight of the year he would go on to claim the Commonwealth Super Middleweight title by destroying the teak tough Charles Adamu in an incredibly impressive display that really put him on the map. Later the same year Groves made his US debut by stopping Alfredo Contreras (TKO6) before being involved in a war with Scottish hardman Kenny Anderson. Against Anderson (who had been given little notice for the fight) Groves was dropped twice before stopping a tiring Anderson in 6 rounds. It's the bout with Anderson that still looms over Groves' head as a professional with many feeling Groves was incredibly lucky to escape the bout with win.
In 2011 Groves managed to record another 3 wins. Firstly Groves stopped the tough Daniel Adotey Allotey (TKO4) before managing to score a notable (and controversial) majority decision win against former amateur rival, and Olympic gold medal winner James DeGale. The victory over DeGale, in what was a highly anticipated bout saw Groves maintaining his unbeaten record whilst inflicting the first professional loss to DeGale. The DeGale bout also saw Goves unifying his Commonwealth title with the British Super Middleweight title to become the #1 fighter domestically (and only behind Carl Froch in terms of Top British fighters in the division). Groves would defend both titles once, stopping former British champion Paul Smith in 2 rounds.
Since beating Smith Groves' career has been really disappointing as he's pulled out of a number of fights with various injuries. Amongst those bouts that he has pulled out of was a rematch with Kenny Anderson and a world title bout with Robert Stielgltiz. Groves however does look set to return to the ring this coming weekend as he's scheduled to face hard hitting Mexican Francisco Sierra (25-5-1, 22) and if he wins he is expected to fight again in September in Wembley. Against Sierra, Groves will go in as the favourite though he will need to be careful not to be caught by Sierra who has got genuine power and is actually going into this bout on the back of an upset against the previously unbeaten Rogelio Ruvalcaba.
Groves, trained by Adam Booth, is seen by many as a future world champion and at just 24 years old he has got a lot of time to pick up a title, though he does still make mistakes that Booth will need to iron out sooner rather than later.
The video below is thanks to JSFIGHTTV
Friday, 2 March 2012
Ryosuke Iwasa
Often boxing fans and writers alike view a single loss early in a fighters career as the end or as proof that they aren't able to cut it at a top level. What boxing fans often forget is that current top fighters like Bernard Hopkins, Juan Manuel Maruqez and Manny Pacquiao all lost early in their careers and as a result I'm happy to often ignore a single loss, just like I'm doing with Japanese Bantamweight Ryosuke Iwasa (12-1, 9).
The 22 year old Iwasa of Kashiwa, Chiba, Japan is a fighter who came to the boxing worlds attention last year in one of the stand out Eastern battle of last year as Iwasa was outlasted by current WBC Bantamweight champion Shinsuke Yamanaka. Whilst Iwasa was stopped in the 10th round of that bout against Yamanaka he showed real glimpses of talent and the sort of potential that boxing fans need to get excited.
Even before the Yamanaka performance many had high hopes for Iwasa who had impressively come through the Japanese amateur ranks having been a former High School champion and as a result when Iwasa turned professional in 2008 aged just 18 the expectations were high. On his debut Iwasa stopped Shinya Takahashi a tough Japanese journeyman in 5 rounds, Takahashi had never been stopped before the bout and this just boosted the expectations of Iwasa.
Rather than fighting a host of easy fights Iwasa was some what fast tracked up the levels and in just 7 fights he had stepped up to facing Kinshiro Usui (who was 19-2 going into their bout) a man who had been unlucky not to have won the Japanese Bantamweight title just a few fights earlier. Impressively Iwasa would stop Usui in 4 rounds becoming the first man to stop him.
After the win over Usui Iwasa would then face Yamanaka in their thrilling 10 round battle for the Japanese Bantamweight title. Whilst Iwasa was eventually stopped by his older and more experienced foe he showed enough for boxing fans to remain excited about him, he had proven his determination, he had shown his heart and skills.The loss to Yamanaka looked even better just months later as Yamanaka won the WBC Bantamweight title stopping Christian Esquivel in 11 rounds.
Iwasa would bounce back from the loss to Yamanaka by quickly blowing out Rasmanudin (a former IIndonesian champion at Bantamweight who had entered the bout with a record of 13-1-2) in just 2 rounds. Then, just weeks after Yamanaka had won the world title, Iwasa managed to get his second chance at winning the Japanese Bantamweight title when he faced Zerofit Jerope Zuiyama (who was 24-2-3 entering the bout). Iwasa would out point the Filipino born Japanese based Zuiyama over the 10 round distance to claim the national title that he's now defended twice beating both Yuki Murai (KO1) and Kentaro Masuda (TKO7).
Next time out Iwasa faces former 2-time title challenger David de la Mora (24-2, 17) who is well known in Japan following a razor thin title bout with 3-weight world champion Koki Kameda, however last time out de la Mora was easily stopped by Anselmo Moreno. Iwasa will go in to the bout as the small favourite, though a win here should seriously boost him up the world rankings.
Iwasa's record of 12-1 (7) may not on paper look mind blowing but when you consider his only loss is to a current world champion and in a toe-to-toe war it's easy to excuse it. It's also worth noting that Yamanaka has since defeated Australian based Armenian Vic Darchinyan in just a few weeks.
The 22 year old Iwasa of Kashiwa, Chiba, Japan is a fighter who came to the boxing worlds attention last year in one of the stand out Eastern battle of last year as Iwasa was outlasted by current WBC Bantamweight champion Shinsuke Yamanaka. Whilst Iwasa was stopped in the 10th round of that bout against Yamanaka he showed real glimpses of talent and the sort of potential that boxing fans need to get excited.
Even before the Yamanaka performance many had high hopes for Iwasa who had impressively come through the Japanese amateur ranks having been a former High School champion and as a result when Iwasa turned professional in 2008 aged just 18 the expectations were high. On his debut Iwasa stopped Shinya Takahashi a tough Japanese journeyman in 5 rounds, Takahashi had never been stopped before the bout and this just boosted the expectations of Iwasa.
Rather than fighting a host of easy fights Iwasa was some what fast tracked up the levels and in just 7 fights he had stepped up to facing Kinshiro Usui (who was 19-2 going into their bout) a man who had been unlucky not to have won the Japanese Bantamweight title just a few fights earlier. Impressively Iwasa would stop Usui in 4 rounds becoming the first man to stop him.
After the win over Usui Iwasa would then face Yamanaka in their thrilling 10 round battle for the Japanese Bantamweight title. Whilst Iwasa was eventually stopped by his older and more experienced foe he showed enough for boxing fans to remain excited about him, he had proven his determination, he had shown his heart and skills.The loss to Yamanaka looked even better just months later as Yamanaka won the WBC Bantamweight title stopping Christian Esquivel in 11 rounds.
Iwasa would bounce back from the loss to Yamanaka by quickly blowing out Rasmanudin (a former IIndonesian champion at Bantamweight who had entered the bout with a record of 13-1-2) in just 2 rounds. Then, just weeks after Yamanaka had won the world title, Iwasa managed to get his second chance at winning the Japanese Bantamweight title when he faced Zerofit Jerope Zuiyama (who was 24-2-3 entering the bout). Iwasa would out point the Filipino born Japanese based Zuiyama over the 10 round distance to claim the national title that he's now defended twice beating both Yuki Murai (KO1) and Kentaro Masuda (TKO7).
Next time out Iwasa faces former 2-time title challenger David de la Mora (24-2, 17) who is well known in Japan following a razor thin title bout with 3-weight world champion Koki Kameda, however last time out de la Mora was easily stopped by Anselmo Moreno. Iwasa will go in to the bout as the small favourite, though a win here should seriously boost him up the world rankings.
Iwasa's record of 12-1 (7) may not on paper look mind blowing but when you consider his only loss is to a current world champion and in a toe-to-toe war it's easy to excuse it. It's also worth noting that Yamanaka has since defeated Australian based Armenian Vic Darchinyan in just a few weeks.
Tuesday, 28 February 2012
Genesis Servania
The Filipino boxing scene is one of the hottest right now and that's due to the huge number of prospects the country has. In the past I've looked at Milan Melindo, Sylvester Lopez and Froilan Saludar and it's time to add the name of unbeaten rising star Genesis Servania (16-0, 5) to our little ensemble.
Born in 1991 Genesis is one of the "babies" of professional boxing though is a fighter who is almost certainly a star in the making and is already climbing up through the boxrec and IBO top 100 at Super Bantamweight which is a division that Genesis has grown into since his debut back in 2009. In his debut Genesis weighed just 108lbs as he defeated Mike Espanosa (TKO2) and swiftly followed it up with 6 more wins in the next 12 months as he kept busy and kept growing and by the time he stopped Melchor Abcede (KO6) Genesis had become a fully blown Bantamweight.
Genesis had quickly and quietly gone about his business racking up wins against lower tier opposition with out too many problems, though he did struggle against Jun Piacidad winning just a split decision against the more experienced opponent in Genesis' first foray into the 8 round distance. Despite the fact he had been taking out pointing lower level opposition it seemed only a matter of time before until Genesis would have to step up and in 2011 he faced his first name fighter in Gerson Guerrero. Guerrero, a former title contender took an impressive record of 34-8 (26) into the bout against the then 14-0 (5) Servania, despite the difference in experience Servania was too big and too Fresh for his well respected Mexican opponent.
Servania has picked up a solitary win since defeating Guerrero though now finds himself in another test as he faces tough Kenyan Nick Otieno (21-7, 9). Although Otieno isn't a world level boxer he has recently fought for the Commonwealth Bantamweight title against Jamie McDonnell and has also lost to the talented Alexander Bakhtin so he has certainly mixed with a better class of opposition than Servania. Saying that however we would expect the young Filipino to defeat Otieno over the distance.
Born in 1991 Genesis is one of the "babies" of professional boxing though is a fighter who is almost certainly a star in the making and is already climbing up through the boxrec and IBO top 100 at Super Bantamweight which is a division that Genesis has grown into since his debut back in 2009. In his debut Genesis weighed just 108lbs as he defeated Mike Espanosa (TKO2) and swiftly followed it up with 6 more wins in the next 12 months as he kept busy and kept growing and by the time he stopped Melchor Abcede (KO6) Genesis had become a fully blown Bantamweight.
Genesis had quickly and quietly gone about his business racking up wins against lower tier opposition with out too many problems, though he did struggle against Jun Piacidad winning just a split decision against the more experienced opponent in Genesis' first foray into the 8 round distance. Despite the fact he had been taking out pointing lower level opposition it seemed only a matter of time before until Genesis would have to step up and in 2011 he faced his first name fighter in Gerson Guerrero. Guerrero, a former title contender took an impressive record of 34-8 (26) into the bout against the then 14-0 (5) Servania, despite the difference in experience Servania was too big and too Fresh for his well respected Mexican opponent.
Servania has picked up a solitary win since defeating Guerrero though now finds himself in another test as he faces tough Kenyan Nick Otieno (21-7, 9). Although Otieno isn't a world level boxer he has recently fought for the Commonwealth Bantamweight title against Jamie McDonnell and has also lost to the talented Alexander Bakhtin so he has certainly mixed with a better class of opposition than Servania. Saying that however we would expect the young Filipino to defeat Otieno over the distance.
Thursday, 23 February 2012
Ronald Cruz
The Welterweight divisions seems to be a division full of promise with a huge number of emerging fighters coming through the ranks and making a name for themselves. We currently have fighters like Diego Gabriel Chaves, Mike Jones, Yoshihiro Kamegai, Kell Brook, Thomas Dulorme and Wale Omotoso all on the edge of a world title fight though one name that often gets over looked is 25 year old American Ronald Cruz (15-0, 12).
Born in Manati, Puerto Rico though now based in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania Cruz is one of the Welterweight division's best kept secrets and yet he's also one of the division's most promising young fighters and one who is going about his work incredibly well with out the hype of some of the other top prospects.
Cruz turned professional to little fan fare back in early 2009 and after having a relatively easy first year he was thrown into real bouts during 2010. In just his 9th fight he faced Juan Ramon Cruz (who entered 16-8-2) who had faced the likes of Urbano Antillon and Anthony Peterson when they had each had over 20 fights. Just months later Ronald would face Jeremy Bryan (14-1 entering the bout) dropping him 3 times enroute to a 6th round KO.
In Cruz's most recent bout he stopped the usually durable Anges Adjaho (now 25-7) in 5 rounds, only the second time Adjaho had been stopped in a career going back over a decade. What made that victory impressive is that Cruz managed to do what the likes of contenders Brad Solomon, Joel Julio and prospect Shawn Porter couldn't manage in 10 rounds a piece.
Cruz will be facing the hard hitting and fun to watch Allen Conyers (12-5, 9) this coming Saturday in yet another tough bout. Whilst Conyers doesn't have an impressive record he has often only been beaten by top opponents such as Delvin Rodriguez, James Kirkland and Carlos Molina and recently upset the then 20-0 James De la Rosa. Cruz is in with a fighter who could really give him a great work out and even a shock if he isn't prepared for a hard fight.
Video below thanks to superboxmma5
Born in Manati, Puerto Rico though now based in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania Cruz is one of the Welterweight division's best kept secrets and yet he's also one of the division's most promising young fighters and one who is going about his work incredibly well with out the hype of some of the other top prospects.
Cruz turned professional to little fan fare back in early 2009 and after having a relatively easy first year he was thrown into real bouts during 2010. In just his 9th fight he faced Juan Ramon Cruz (who entered 16-8-2) who had faced the likes of Urbano Antillon and Anthony Peterson when they had each had over 20 fights. Just months later Ronald would face Jeremy Bryan (14-1 entering the bout) dropping him 3 times enroute to a 6th round KO.
In Cruz's most recent bout he stopped the usually durable Anges Adjaho (now 25-7) in 5 rounds, only the second time Adjaho had been stopped in a career going back over a decade. What made that victory impressive is that Cruz managed to do what the likes of contenders Brad Solomon, Joel Julio and prospect Shawn Porter couldn't manage in 10 rounds a piece.
Cruz will be facing the hard hitting and fun to watch Allen Conyers (12-5, 9) this coming Saturday in yet another tough bout. Whilst Conyers doesn't have an impressive record he has often only been beaten by top opponents such as Delvin Rodriguez, James Kirkland and Carlos Molina and recently upset the then 20-0 James De la Rosa. Cruz is in with a fighter who could really give him a great work out and even a shock if he isn't prepared for a hard fight.
Video below thanks to superboxmma5
Wednesday, 8 February 2012
Bradley Saunders
Sometimes it's hard to be excited about a debut, especially when you can't be too sure about whether or not the fight will actually take place or not (such as Egviney Tishchenko's recently cancelled debut) this week however we are incredibly excited about Englishman Bradley Saunders who recently decided to turn professional with Frank Warren. Saunders will be making his debut against journeyman Jason Nesbitt (9-139-3-1, 6) on Friday night on Box Nation on the under-card of Kevin Mitchell's fight with Felix Lora.
What makes it easy to get excited about Saunders is know what's behind the former British amateur standout who really has made an impact on the international stage already. Fighting out of the South Durham ABC Saunders won a national title in 2006. The following year Saunders would win bronze medals at both the World Amateur Championships and the European Union Championships. In 2008 Saunders would be part of the brilliant Olympic team Britain took to Beijing (which included James DeGale, Frankie Gavin, Billy Joe Saunders and David Price), although he failed to medal at the games he did make a quick inpression stopping Ghana's Samuel Kotey Neequaye inside a round.
Whilst many of his Olympic team mates decided to turn professional soon afterwards Saunder stuck to the amateur scene though sadly missed out on the 2009 World Amateur Championships due to a hand injury (broken thumb). After that set back Saunders set his eyes towards the 2012 Olympic games in London though since then his plans have changed and instead Saunders has decided to put Olympic aspiration behind him and prepare for a new career as a professional fighter.
Whilst hopes are high for Saunders on Friday night he is facing a born survivour in Nesbitt who has only been stopped 11 times in a 152 and the last of those stoppages came in 2009 against Gary Sykes (who later went on to win the British super featherweight title). A victory for Saunders is expected though a stoppage would be incredibly impressive.
What makes it easy to get excited about Saunders is know what's behind the former British amateur standout who really has made an impact on the international stage already. Fighting out of the South Durham ABC Saunders won a national title in 2006. The following year Saunders would win bronze medals at both the World Amateur Championships and the European Union Championships. In 2008 Saunders would be part of the brilliant Olympic team Britain took to Beijing (which included James DeGale, Frankie Gavin, Billy Joe Saunders and David Price), although he failed to medal at the games he did make a quick inpression stopping Ghana's Samuel Kotey Neequaye inside a round.
Whilst many of his Olympic team mates decided to turn professional soon afterwards Saunder stuck to the amateur scene though sadly missed out on the 2009 World Amateur Championships due to a hand injury (broken thumb). After that set back Saunders set his eyes towards the 2012 Olympic games in London though since then his plans have changed and instead Saunders has decided to put Olympic aspiration behind him and prepare for a new career as a professional fighter.
Whilst hopes are high for Saunders on Friday night he is facing a born survivour in Nesbitt who has only been stopped 11 times in a 152 and the last of those stoppages came in 2009 against Gary Sykes (who later went on to win the British super featherweight title). A victory for Saunders is expected though a stoppage would be incredibly impressive.
Tuesday, 31 January 2012
The return of Carlos Ivan Velasquez
I started this blog almost a year ago and one of the very first fighters I mentioned was Puerto Rico's Carlos Ivan Velasquez, a fighter that I felt at the time was heading on to super stardom. Sadly since that blog Velasquez has been out of action, in fact Velasquez hasn't fought since beating Eduardo Arcos way back in July 2010. Thankfully however he is set to return to the ring on 3rd February fighting a yet to be named opponent in the Texas Station Casino, Las Vegas.
Whilst we don't know why he was out of action and we also don't know who he is facing I am very glad to see that he is returning to the ring as he looked sensational in early footage that I found and anyone who beat both Arcos and Ira Terry in their first 15 fights is worth making a note of.
Velazuez currently holds a record of 13-0 (11) though at 27 years old he may well have wasted 18 months of his prime development years so hopefully his handlers will force him to make up for lost time this year.
Whilst we don't know why he was out of action and we also don't know who he is facing I am very glad to see that he is returning to the ring as he looked sensational in early footage that I found and anyone who beat both Arcos and Ira Terry in their first 15 fights is worth making a note of.
Velazuez currently holds a record of 13-0 (11) though at 27 years old he may well have wasted 18 months of his prime development years so hopefully his handlers will force him to make up for lost time this year.
Saturday, 28 January 2012
Evgeniy Tishchenko
Sometimes this blog can be genuinely hard to research for especially when fighters have yet to make their professional debut. Sometime your can get lucky due to a lot of information about their amateur exploits other times you can really struggle to find the necessary information to make a fully fledged piece for the site. When it comes to Evgeniy Tishchenko, this is one of the most sketchy profiles you're likely to see here sadly though it seems like I'm one of the very few trying to put the pieces together (at least as far as English language blogs go).
What we do know about Tishchenko is that the giant Russian stands around 6'5 and at just 20 years old he interests us a lot with out even making his professional debut. From his amateur past it's quite difficult to be too sure about him. We know he competed in the Russian 2011 National Amateur Championships, he lost in the Semi Final there to Nikita Ivanov (who went on to win Silver) Also in 2011 Tishchenko beat Alexey Sevostyanov in the final of the Governor Cup in Saint Petersburg. We are also pretty sure he won the 2009 European Youth Championships and beat Cezary Samelko in the final, we also think he won the Russian Youth Championships (or the equivalent) the same year, all at 81KG.
Basically from what we can find is that he was a pretty good amateur. Whilst he didn't make a big name for himself in the seniors, he didn't stay there for long enough to really establish himself (and in Russia with a number of top names it's likely he decided not to wait around). Instead Tihschenko has run off to Germany where he will be making his professional debut tonight as he faces the Ukrainian veteran Ihor Pylypenko (3-11-1). Pylypenko has faced Valery Brudov (twice), Grigory Drozd and Rakhim Chakhkiev. A win for Tishchenko is expected though it's going to be interesting to see how he settles into the professional ranks.
What we do know about Tishchenko is that the giant Russian stands around 6'5 and at just 20 years old he interests us a lot with out even making his professional debut. From his amateur past it's quite difficult to be too sure about him. We know he competed in the Russian 2011 National Amateur Championships, he lost in the Semi Final there to Nikita Ivanov (who went on to win Silver) Also in 2011 Tishchenko beat Alexey Sevostyanov in the final of the Governor Cup in Saint Petersburg. We are also pretty sure he won the 2009 European Youth Championships and beat Cezary Samelko in the final, we also think he won the Russian Youth Championships (or the equivalent) the same year, all at 81KG.
Basically from what we can find is that he was a pretty good amateur. Whilst he didn't make a big name for himself in the seniors, he didn't stay there for long enough to really establish himself (and in Russia with a number of top names it's likely he decided not to wait around). Instead Tihschenko has run off to Germany where he will be making his professional debut tonight as he faces the Ukrainian veteran Ihor Pylypenko (3-11-1). Pylypenko has faced Valery Brudov (twice), Grigory Drozd and Rakhim Chakhkiev. A win for Tishchenko is expected though it's going to be interesting to see how he settles into the professional ranks.
Tuesday, 24 January 2012
Milan Melindo
At just 23 years years old Filipino prospect Milan Melindo (25-0, 9) may well be one of the most nailed on future champions in the sport. Born in Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental though now based in Cebu City, Cebu Melindo is a fighter who has flown under the radar amazingly well despite some of the sweetest skills in the sport and one of the most under-rated records of any fighter out there, in fact some may argue with even classing him as a prospect.
Melindo started boxing as a youngster and there are reports that he fought over 500 amateur bouts, including winning gold twice at the Palarong Pambansa (the Filipino national games). Melindo would then turn professional way back in 2005 aged just 17 by winning a decision on his debut against Meljun Grumo and since then he has slowly crafted a very solid career.
After 2 years as a professional Melindo picked up his first title when he defeated Pongpan Patanakan Gym for the WBO Asia Pacific minimumweight title. Less than a year later Melindo would add the WBA Inter-Continental light flyweight title to trophy cabinet, though it wasn't until his 18th fight that Melindo proved his class as he faced former world champion Muhammad Rachman. At the time Rachman's record stood at an impressive 62-6-5 with only a single loss in the previous decade (a narrow points loss to the power punching Florante Condes) with Melindo seen as taking a giant step up in class. Melindo would be too quick for Rachmann who despite never giving up looked to be a level behind the young speedy upstart who took a clear unanimous decision and put the first big name on his record.
Following the win over Rachman it would have made sense for Melindo to push on with his career though instead he had 4 fights against lesser opponents (including 2 time PABA Super Flyweight champion Komrit Lukkuongmuekol) as he spent the following 18 months remaining busy. It wasn't until November 2010 that Melindo would again mix with world level level fighters as he faced former IBF Flyweight champion Carlos Tamara. In his previous bout Tamara had controversially lost the IBF title to Argentinian Luis Alberto Lazarte though at times Melindo make it look easy as he took a wide decision over Tamara to claim the second scalp of a former world title holder.
Again it looked like time for Melindo to kick on with things and start challenging for world titles of his own, though instead he decided to blow out Mexican veteran Rosendo Vega (KO1). Again it looked like Melindo's momentum had been killed off until he returned to the ring in September 2011 and defeated former title challenger Francisco Rosas. Despite Rosas weighing more on the scales than Melindo the Filipino eased to victory as he forced Rosas to retire after 10 one sided rounds.
Melindo will defend his WBO Inter-Continental flyweight title this coming weekend as he faces Juan Esquer, Melindo is expected to defeated Esquer (a former world title challenger himself). Whilst Melindo has perhaps padded his record somewhat it is impressive that 23 year old already holds wins over 2 former champions and looks to add a second title challenger to his record. Though hopefully this will be the last fight for Melindo, a supremely talented and lightning quick fighter, before he looks for a world title fight of his own. Whilst his division is one of the tougher ones (with champions including future hall of famer Pongsaklek Wonjongkam, My 2011Fighter of the Year Brian Viloria, the hard hitting Hernan "Tyson" Marquez and South African Moruti Mthalane) he has the skills to hold his own with any of them.
Video below thanks to MrPacman4ever
Melindo started boxing as a youngster and there are reports that he fought over 500 amateur bouts, including winning gold twice at the Palarong Pambansa (the Filipino national games). Melindo would then turn professional way back in 2005 aged just 17 by winning a decision on his debut against Meljun Grumo and since then he has slowly crafted a very solid career.
After 2 years as a professional Melindo picked up his first title when he defeated Pongpan Patanakan Gym for the WBO Asia Pacific minimumweight title. Less than a year later Melindo would add the WBA Inter-Continental light flyweight title to trophy cabinet, though it wasn't until his 18th fight that Melindo proved his class as he faced former world champion Muhammad Rachman. At the time Rachman's record stood at an impressive 62-6-5 with only a single loss in the previous decade (a narrow points loss to the power punching Florante Condes) with Melindo seen as taking a giant step up in class. Melindo would be too quick for Rachmann who despite never giving up looked to be a level behind the young speedy upstart who took a clear unanimous decision and put the first big name on his record.
Following the win over Rachman it would have made sense for Melindo to push on with his career though instead he had 4 fights against lesser opponents (including 2 time PABA Super Flyweight champion Komrit Lukkuongmuekol) as he spent the following 18 months remaining busy. It wasn't until November 2010 that Melindo would again mix with world level level fighters as he faced former IBF Flyweight champion Carlos Tamara. In his previous bout Tamara had controversially lost the IBF title to Argentinian Luis Alberto Lazarte though at times Melindo make it look easy as he took a wide decision over Tamara to claim the second scalp of a former world title holder.
Again it looked like time for Melindo to kick on with things and start challenging for world titles of his own, though instead he decided to blow out Mexican veteran Rosendo Vega (KO1). Again it looked like Melindo's momentum had been killed off until he returned to the ring in September 2011 and defeated former title challenger Francisco Rosas. Despite Rosas weighing more on the scales than Melindo the Filipino eased to victory as he forced Rosas to retire after 10 one sided rounds.
Melindo will defend his WBO Inter-Continental flyweight title this coming weekend as he faces Juan Esquer, Melindo is expected to defeated Esquer (a former world title challenger himself). Whilst Melindo has perhaps padded his record somewhat it is impressive that 23 year old already holds wins over 2 former champions and looks to add a second title challenger to his record. Though hopefully this will be the last fight for Melindo, a supremely talented and lightning quick fighter, before he looks for a world title fight of his own. Whilst his division is one of the tougher ones (with champions including future hall of famer Pongsaklek Wonjongkam, My 2011Fighter of the Year Brian Viloria, the hard hitting Hernan "Tyson" Marquez and South African Moruti Mthalane) he has the skills to hold his own with any of them.
Video below thanks to MrPacman4ever
Wednesday, 18 January 2012
Julio Ceja
When you get a 19 year old with more than a handful of fights you tend to get a little bit excited and with Mexicans it maybe a little expected but sometimes there is just something about the fighter that makes you more than a little bit interested and that's what we have in Julio Ceja who at 19 has a record of 17-0 (16).
Ceja made his debut in 2009 aged just 16 and stopped Floro Carranza in the opening round before being taken 4 rounds by Fernando Curiel in September 2009, the fight with Curiel has been the one and only time that Ceja has had to hear the final bell as he has ran through opponents with alarming ease. By the end of 2009 Ceja had moved to 5-0 (4) with 3 opening round wins. The following year Ceja would add 7 more wins, each of those coming by KO/TKO with another 2 coming in the opening round as he swiftly moved to 12-0 (11).
Now I won't pretend that Ceja's first 12 opponents were anything to right home about, most were unknown fighters with only a handful of rounds of experience though in 2011 Ceja proved that he could face a better quality of opponent and still impress. In his 15th fight Ceja fought Cesar Javier Gandara (who entered 14-1) in a bout for the vacant WBC FECARBOX Super Flyweight title, Gandara, like 13 men before him was stopped as Ceja continued his tear through the ranks. In his next fight Ceja stopped the then 12-0 Alejandro Morales in just 1 round.
Whilst it is fair to say that Grandara and Morales weren't that experienced themselves despite having solid looking paper records it's now time that Ceja did face his first real test and this coming weekend he faces Ronald Barrera (30-8-2, 19). Barrera of Barranquilla, Colombia is a talented southpaw who has repeatedly challenged for world titles over the past few years (and arguably beat the great Ivan Calderon back in 2007). Although he has yet to win a world title has has faced Yutaka Niida (WBA Minimumweight champion), Ivan Calderon (WBO Minimumweight champion), Raul Garcia (IBF Minimumweight champion), Omar Nino Romero (WBC Light Flyweigth champion) and Juan Carlos Reveco (WBA Interim Light Flyweight champion) with 6 of his 8 losses coming to these men.
Whilst Ceja may prove to be too big, strong and too good for Barrera the bout is a decent test for the Mexican Super Flyweight against a talented and proven fighter. Whilst I'd expect Ceja to add another stoppage victim to his record this is easily going to be the most impressive opponent he will have faced in his short and impressive career.
Note an updated piece on Ceja can be found at http://www.boxingprospects.info/1/post/2012/04/julio-ceja.html
Footage below thanks to marvinkbox
Ceja made his debut in 2009 aged just 16 and stopped Floro Carranza in the opening round before being taken 4 rounds by Fernando Curiel in September 2009, the fight with Curiel has been the one and only time that Ceja has had to hear the final bell as he has ran through opponents with alarming ease. By the end of 2009 Ceja had moved to 5-0 (4) with 3 opening round wins. The following year Ceja would add 7 more wins, each of those coming by KO/TKO with another 2 coming in the opening round as he swiftly moved to 12-0 (11).
Now I won't pretend that Ceja's first 12 opponents were anything to right home about, most were unknown fighters with only a handful of rounds of experience though in 2011 Ceja proved that he could face a better quality of opponent and still impress. In his 15th fight Ceja fought Cesar Javier Gandara (who entered 14-1) in a bout for the vacant WBC FECARBOX Super Flyweight title, Gandara, like 13 men before him was stopped as Ceja continued his tear through the ranks. In his next fight Ceja stopped the then 12-0 Alejandro Morales in just 1 round.
Whilst it is fair to say that Grandara and Morales weren't that experienced themselves despite having solid looking paper records it's now time that Ceja did face his first real test and this coming weekend he faces Ronald Barrera (30-8-2, 19). Barrera of Barranquilla, Colombia is a talented southpaw who has repeatedly challenged for world titles over the past few years (and arguably beat the great Ivan Calderon back in 2007). Although he has yet to win a world title has has faced Yutaka Niida (WBA Minimumweight champion), Ivan Calderon (WBO Minimumweight champion), Raul Garcia (IBF Minimumweight champion), Omar Nino Romero (WBC Light Flyweigth champion) and Juan Carlos Reveco (WBA Interim Light Flyweight champion) with 6 of his 8 losses coming to these men.
Whilst Ceja may prove to be too big, strong and too good for Barrera the bout is a decent test for the Mexican Super Flyweight against a talented and proven fighter. Whilst I'd expect Ceja to add another stoppage victim to his record this is easily going to be the most impressive opponent he will have faced in his short and impressive career.
Note an updated piece on Ceja can be found at http://www.boxingprospects.info/1/post/2012/04/julio-ceja.html
Footage below thanks to marvinkbox
Monday, 9 January 2012
Yordenis Ugás
On the whole Cuban defectors haven't been hugely in the professional ranks, with only really Yuriorkis Gamboa and Guillermo Rigondeaux making any major waves so far (other than the waves Odlanier Solis makes every time he goes for a swim). Despite this Cuban's have got the potential to turn professional boxing on it's head, the talent from Cuba is amazing with the likes of Erislandy Lara and Yunier Dorticos climbing the ranks quickly. Another man who is worth take a note of is former amateur star Yordenis Ugás (10-0, 5) who may emerge as one of the real top Cuban's.
The 25 year old Ugás is like many of his compatriots, a very well schooled amateur, in fact his accomplishments in the unpaid ranks say it all as he's won World Cup Silver (2005), World Amateur Gold (2005), Central American and Caribbean Games Gold (2006), Pan Am Games Gold (2007) and Olympic Bronze (2008). Like many Cuban amateurs he was incredibly technical and used his skill and natural ability well to cover up what was repeatedly referred to as a shaky chin.
Despite winning the 2009 Cuban National title at Light Welterweight Ugás was overlooked for the World Amateur Championships later that year and elected to defect to the USA to turn professional. Ugás would make his professional debut on July 9th 2010 in Atlanta, Georgia where he defeated fellow debutant Dino Dumonjic over a 4 round shut out. Just 3 later Ugás was out again, this time stopping DeJuan Jackson in just 88 seconds.
In just his third bout Ugás made his television debut and made a swift impact in stopping Marqus Jackson in just 2 rounds on ESPN Friday Night Fights in August 2010 as his handlers kept him busy. Ugás used his chance to show off his ability on television and looked impressive with incredibly fast hands, solid defence and very good shot selection after he settled into the fight. The bout ended in the 2nd round as Ugás piled on the pressure and Jackson repeatedly went to the canvas as Ugás moved to 3-0 (2) and by the end of the year that had become 5-0 (3).
Whilst 2010 had been a busy year for Ugás with 5 fights in around 5 months 2011 wouldn't see him as active though it did see him stepping up to face better competition with the stand out win being over New Yorker Kenny Abril. Like the previous year Ugás would fit in 5 fights as he moved to 10-0 (5) and began to slowly show that he genuine skills to go with his amateur reputation. To start 2012 and really keep the bandwagon moving Ugás will face Esteban Almaraz (10-4, 4) in a bought that will be shown on ESPN2 Friday Night Fights alongside the meeting of Teon Kennedy and Christopher Martin in what appears to be a real cross rounds fight.
Although not strictly speaking a prospect I would like try and give all you fans a heads up that former world title challenger Javier Maciel fights on TYC Sports in Argentina soon after the ESPN2 card finishes. I'm a firm believer that Maciel is a real danger man at Light Middleweight and one to watch out for in the next year or two, so he may be worth staying up and watching.
Video of Ugás' television debut can be seen below thanks to damit305
The 25 year old Ugás is like many of his compatriots, a very well schooled amateur, in fact his accomplishments in the unpaid ranks say it all as he's won World Cup Silver (2005), World Amateur Gold (2005), Central American and Caribbean Games Gold (2006), Pan Am Games Gold (2007) and Olympic Bronze (2008). Like many Cuban amateurs he was incredibly technical and used his skill and natural ability well to cover up what was repeatedly referred to as a shaky chin.
Despite winning the 2009 Cuban National title at Light Welterweight Ugás was overlooked for the World Amateur Championships later that year and elected to defect to the USA to turn professional. Ugás would make his professional debut on July 9th 2010 in Atlanta, Georgia where he defeated fellow debutant Dino Dumonjic over a 4 round shut out. Just 3 later Ugás was out again, this time stopping DeJuan Jackson in just 88 seconds.
In just his third bout Ugás made his television debut and made a swift impact in stopping Marqus Jackson in just 2 rounds on ESPN Friday Night Fights in August 2010 as his handlers kept him busy. Ugás used his chance to show off his ability on television and looked impressive with incredibly fast hands, solid defence and very good shot selection after he settled into the fight. The bout ended in the 2nd round as Ugás piled on the pressure and Jackson repeatedly went to the canvas as Ugás moved to 3-0 (2) and by the end of the year that had become 5-0 (3).
Whilst 2010 had been a busy year for Ugás with 5 fights in around 5 months 2011 wouldn't see him as active though it did see him stepping up to face better competition with the stand out win being over New Yorker Kenny Abril. Like the previous year Ugás would fit in 5 fights as he moved to 10-0 (5) and began to slowly show that he genuine skills to go with his amateur reputation. To start 2012 and really keep the bandwagon moving Ugás will face Esteban Almaraz (10-4, 4) in a bought that will be shown on ESPN2 Friday Night Fights alongside the meeting of Teon Kennedy and Christopher Martin in what appears to be a real cross rounds fight.
Although not strictly speaking a prospect I would like try and give all you fans a heads up that former world title challenger Javier Maciel fights on TYC Sports in Argentina soon after the ESPN2 card finishes. I'm a firm believer that Maciel is a real danger man at Light Middleweight and one to watch out for in the next year or two, so he may be worth staying up and watching.
Video of Ugás' television debut can be seen below thanks to damit305
Wednesday, 4 January 2012
Steve Martinez
So now we're in 2012 time to look at fighters who will be making an impact this year and to start with we are looking at very talented American Steve Martinez (11-0, 9). Martinez is a 21 year old Light Middleweight prospect from the tough streets of the Bronx in New York and is expected to make a real mark in the next few years, though could well be on the fringes by the end of this year.
Martinez first came to the attention of boxing fans back in 2008 when he would win the National Golden Gloves (at 152lbs) by beating Sammy Vasquez in the final. The teenager however was already well established as an amateur before the national success with prior victories in the New York Golden Gloves and a growing reputation as one of the USA's elite amateurs.
In 2009 Martinez would turn professional and defeat Keith Collins in just 135 seconds before soon adding 2 more quick wins to move to 3-0 (3) by the end of the year. Despite being just a teenager he was quickly getting attention and through 2010 he continued to rip through opponents as he advanced to 7-0 (6) by the end of the year. Whilst he wasn't facing anyone of note he was showing a lot of promise and it seemed only a matter of time before he would step up a level or two and face real tests for the first time.
In Martinez's first test of 2011 he defeated the experienced Ishwar Amador in just a round before being taken a 4 schedule by Eric Marriott. It was the year ending victory over Jay Krupp that really helped put Martinez on the map as a professional as he moved to 11-0 (9) and started to get attention to go with his talented. To start 2012 off Martinez will be in his toughest test to date as he faces Denis Douglin (13-1, 8) as part of an ESPN2 Friday Night Fight card. A win should see Martinez given more another tough test later this year before moving on to bigger and better things in one of boxing's most under-rated divisions.
Martinez first came to the attention of boxing fans back in 2008 when he would win the National Golden Gloves (at 152lbs) by beating Sammy Vasquez in the final. The teenager however was already well established as an amateur before the national success with prior victories in the New York Golden Gloves and a growing reputation as one of the USA's elite amateurs.
In 2009 Martinez would turn professional and defeat Keith Collins in just 135 seconds before soon adding 2 more quick wins to move to 3-0 (3) by the end of the year. Despite being just a teenager he was quickly getting attention and through 2010 he continued to rip through opponents as he advanced to 7-0 (6) by the end of the year. Whilst he wasn't facing anyone of note he was showing a lot of promise and it seemed only a matter of time before he would step up a level or two and face real tests for the first time.
In Martinez's first test of 2011 he defeated the experienced Ishwar Amador in just a round before being taken a 4 schedule by Eric Marriott. It was the year ending victory over Jay Krupp that really helped put Martinez on the map as a professional as he moved to 11-0 (9) and started to get attention to go with his talented. To start 2012 off Martinez will be in his toughest test to date as he faces Denis Douglin (13-1, 8) as part of an ESPN2 Friday Night Fight card. A win should see Martinez given more another tough test later this year before moving on to bigger and better things in one of boxing's most under-rated divisions.
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