James Toney vs. Hasim Rahman

The stakes were high for everyone involved. Hasim Rahman was on a quest to once again become the undisputed Heavyweight Champion of the World, James Toney had the chance to become a five weight class champion, promoter Bob Arum and Top Rank were ready to become players in the Heavyweight division once again. The WBC Heavyweight Title was on the line, and the pieces were in place for the prevailing fighter to take on the winner of the upcoming Wladimir Klitschko vs. Chris Byrd match up to restore some sense of sanity to this scattered division. Instead, this fight turned out to contradict all expectations. While many thought this would turn out to be a snoozer, it had many exciting moments and will garner a reasonably high demand for a rematch. Many favored Toney going into the fight, but it was Rahman who was claimed to be the real winner by most fans leaving Atlantic City’s Boardwalk Hall, all in disbelief that the ringside judges scored this bout a draw. The disappointment didn't stop there. In the co-main event, Christmas came early for undefeated Junior Welterweight prospect Dmitriy Salita as he somehow earned a draw in his fight against Ramon Montano. The Mexican slugger floored Salita twice in the opening round, and had his opponent is serious trouble in other stages of the bout. To Salita’s credit, he took his beating like a man and managed to make it an enjoyable fight but he should thank his Star of David that he did not receive the first major blemish on his professional record. In other action, Wildwood NJ native Chucky Mussachio once again packed in the fans and bumped his record up to a perfect 6 – 0 in a hard fought rumble against Philly’s Edward Hemphill. Three is the magic number for Reading PA’s Travis Kaufman as made quick work of his opponent to earn his third knockout in three professional tries.

Hasim Rahman vs. James Toney
Balitmore, MD Ann Arbor, MI
44-5-1 (33) 69 -4 - 2

After many months of selling wolf tickets, the time finally came for Baltimore’s Hasim Rahman and Detroit native James “Lights Out” Toney to step into the ring. Rahman, who is known for packing on the pounds for a fight, showed up in the best shape of his professional career at a jacked up 238 lbs. Toney, who is also known for bringing the blub, came to the ring looking like a melted king sized hershey bar. That bring said, Toney also brought his world class hand speed and a chin that Klitschko would kill for. Rahman showed off a sharp left jab, and a methodical approach. Here is how the fight went down.

Round 1 – Toney works the left jab early; Rahman follows suit and beings to establish a left jab of his own. Toney shows impressive hand speed as he lands the left – right combo. Rahman hangs in there and bangs away at the body. Rahman ends the round scoring two left jabs and a right at the end of the round.

Saddo Scorecard - Rahman 10 – 9

Round 2 – Rahman looks to bring the punishment and Toney responds countering everything coming his way. The fight goes to the ropes and the crowd erupts as both fighters work inside until the final bell sounds.

Saddo Scorecard – Rahman 10 – 9

Round 3 – Rahman charges again, Toney takes the shots and counters away again. Toney throws and lands a couple of big looping overhand rights to Rahman’s head though they seem to have little effect. Rahman concentrates mostly on the body with the left jab throughout the round. Toney is scoring with his left as well. Another exciting brawl breaks out along the ropes.

Saddo Scorecard – Toney 10 – 9

Round 4 – Rahman fires, Toney fires back which is the theme of this round. The pace wasn’t as fast as the previous rounds. Toney tries to steal the round with a late flurry but gets caught by a Rahman right as the round ends.

Saddo Scorecard – Rahman 10 – 9


Round 5 – Both fighters start out trading jabs. Toney looks to be loosing some steam but is still willing to fight. Rahman works the left jab to the head and body. Toney fires back towards the end but nothing seems to land clearly.

Saddo Scorecard Rahman 10 – 9

Round 6 – The fighters start out again mixing it up. Rahman again to the body, Toney again firing off counter punches. The middle of the round slows down but both fighters pick it up in the final minute with a spirited exchange in the corner.

Saddo Scorecard Rahman 10 – 9

Round 7 – The fighters are neck to neck grinding it out in the middle. Toney successfully lands the uppercut but it is apparent that he can not hurt Rahman. Toney fires away and Rahman stands his ground. Rahman lands a sharp right upstairs but Toney fires right back with a left that finds the mark. Once again, both fighters are in close fighting it out until the bell sounds.

Saddo Scorecard – Toney 10 – 9

Round 8 – Rahman comes out of the gate landing a right but that’s all Toney will allow for the first minute and a half as James fires off lefts and rights which hit the spot. The fight goes into the corner where, surprise, Rahman leads and Toney counters.

Saddo Scorecard – Even 10 – 10

Round 9 – Round is slow, Toney tries to bring the action to the ropes where he is most successful but Rahman doesn’t bite. Fighters mix it up in the middle on the ring and Rahman lands a nice right – left combo.

Saddo Scorecard – Rahman 10 – 9

Round 10 – A slow round that Toney grinds out with his left hand work on the inside.

Saddo Scorecard – Toney 10 – 9

Round 11 – more Rahman work inside, more Toney counter punches. Rahman gets in some good work to the ribs. Toney begins to fire back with lefts and rights. The action slows down and the crowd boo’s. The action picks back up in a big way in the corner as both fighters fire away but it seems to be Toney who lands the more convincing blows

Saddo scorecard Toney 10 – 9

Round 12 – Toney comes out and tries to end it with one big right but misses. Rahman goes back to the inside and stays there for most of the round. Toney fires back and another battle ensues in the final minute. Rahman hangs inside and punches away at his wide target.

Saddo Scorecard - Rahman 10 – 9

Scorecards
117 – 110 Rahman
114- 114
114 – 114
Majority Draw

Saddo scorecard 116 – 113 Rahman




In other action

Super Lightweight Division
Dmitriy Salita vs. Ramon Montano
Brooklyn, NY Las Vegas, NV
24 – 0 (14) 10 – 3 – 1 (8)


Round 1 - This fight started off fast as Montano floors the undefeated Salita half way through the first round with a straight right that landed square on the jaw. Salita rose to his feet and Montano hit pay dirt once again, courtesy of another straight right to the jaw putting Salita’s back on the canvas. Salita barely beats the ten count only you receive more of a beating. Montano keeps the heat on high and lands a left hook which came ending the match early but to Salitos credit, he stayed on his feet and survived the round.

Saddo Scorecard – 10 – 7 Montano

Round 2 – Montano tries to pick up where he left off and lands another big right that buckles the Brooklyn brawlers’ knees. Dmitriy wisely begins to use the left jab which keeps Montano at bay. Montano continues to apply the pressure but Salito somehow is able to box his way out of the round.

Saddo Scorecard 10 – 9 Salito

Round 3 – Once again, Montano starts the round connected with a hard straight right hand which buckles Salita. Salita wants to go toe to toe and slugs it out in the middle of the ring. The action dies down and both fighters use the strategy of throwing two punch combos and backing out.

Saddo Scorecard 10 – 9 Montano

Round 4 – In a very boring round, Dmitriy makes good use of his left jab.

Saddo scorecard 10 – 9 Salito

Round 5 – The round starts off slow until Montano picks up the pace lands two straight right hands to the head. Montano stays on the attack but Salito boxes his way through the middle portion of the round. Montano lands a late flurry to end the round.

Saddo scorecard 10 – 9 Montano

Round 6 – Montano tries to apply the pressure but it is thwarted by Salito’s new strategy of doubling up the punches. Salito does an excellent job of avoiding his charging opponent and avoiding the brawl.

Saddo Scorecard 10 – 9 Salito

Round 7 – Not much action in the 7th as both fighters tap away with the jab. Salito scores more with the double left jab.

Saddo Scorecard 10 – 9 Salito

Round 8 – Both fighters come out looking to win the final round big. A nice inside battle happens inside and both men exchange at many points all across the ring.

Saddo Scorecard 10 – 9 Montano

Official Scorecard
76-74 Montano
75-75
75-75
Majority Draw


Saddo Scorecard 76 – 74 Montano




Chuck Mussachio vs. Edward Hemphill
Wildwood, NJ Philadelphia, PA
5 – 0 (3) 3 – 2 (1)

“The Professor” Chucky Mussachio instructed Edward Hemphill that when you fight in your opponents backyard, you better bring you’re A game to get the win. While Hemphill was a game challenger, Mussachio showed a solid jab, chin and some pop in his right hand. Mussachio kepts his record perfect with a majority four round decision and left to a crowd chant of "Wildwood, Wildwood".






Tony Thompson vs. Maurice Wheeler
Baltimore, MD Philadelphia, PA
26 – 1 (16) 10 – 4 – 1 (1)

Thompson and Wheeler threw heavyweight bombs at each other for four rounds until Thompson changed up and landed a shot to Wheelers right kidney area, putting the Philadelphian down to a knee and leaving him unable to continue.



Travis Kaufman vs. Robert Bell
Reading, PA Akron, OH
2 – 0 (2) 2 – 1 (2)

Travis Kaufman continued his knockout streak by landing a big haymaker to the head of his opponent in the first round of their scheduled four round bout.


Suszannah Warner vs. Noriko Ann Kariya
Colorado Springs, CO Toronto, Canada
2 – 2 (1) 3 – 0

Suszannah Warner put the first blemish on the record of Noriko Korya in a scrappy four round rumble. Warner was the aggressor though Koriya shows a showed defense technique.





If you have any questions, comments or suggestions you can email Philly Keith at keithfmt3@hotmail.com

Return to www.phillykeith.com for more great sports coverage

Anthony "The Messanger" Thompson to headline on ShoBox

For Anthony Thompson, his message is clear.

“I want to step up and fight guys in the top 10,” the promising super welterweight said. “I hope to fight for a world title soon. I am confident in my ability and I will be ready.’’

Thompson (20-1, 15 KOs), of Philadelphia, will attempt to deliver his message to Darnell Boone (10-4-1, four KOs), of Youngstown, Ohio, Friday, March 31, in the “ShoBox: The New Generation” main event on SHOWTIME (11 p.m. ET/PT delayed on the west coast). In the co-feature from Maywood Activity Center in Maywood, Calif., southpaw Victor Ortiz (12-1, eight KOs), of Oxnard, Calif., by way of Liberal, Kansas, will face Freddy Barrera (10-0, one KO), of Colton, Calif. The doubleheader will be promoted by Bob Arum’s Top Rank, Inc.

The following night on April 1, SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING will continue its 20th anniversary celebration with a world heavyweight championship bout between World Boxing Organization (WBO) Champion Lamon Brewster and once-beaten challenger Sergei Liakhovich.

A classy, religious, respectful and modest young man outside of the ring, Thompson turns into an aggressive-minded, crowd-pleasing, exciting Philly fighter between the ropes.

“When Thompson turned pro, he was considered as promising a prospect as any young fighter in the United States,” said ShoBox analyst Steve Farhood. “Now, he is clearly ready to move up and realize his potential. In Boone, you have a warrior who has knocked down Andre Ward and beaten some notable opponents in James Countryman and Rasheem Brown. He will be a tough test for Thompson.”

“I am not a guy who likes to go around beating up people and punching them in the face,” Thompson said. “I do not talk trash. I am a very nice, humble person, and I like to do things for people. That is what really brings me joy.”

Thompson deserves any happiness that comes his way. A single father, Thompson twice has suffered through unthinkable tragedies. Two of his daughters died before their first birthday.

In 1996, Thompson lost six-month-old Yakira to the rare Zellweger syndrome. Four years later, two-month-old Yasheva lost her battle with the same hereditary disease.

“I had to see a part of me die,” Thompson said. “Your kids are a reflection of you.’’

Yet, Thompson has found the strength to carry on through religion.

“I am a Hebrew Israelite,” Thompson said. “I can read Hebrew a little. That is why my nickname is ‘The Messenger.’ I have a grip on life and I realize that there is nothing out there. This world is nothing but illusion, and if you live by the world, that is what you will resemble. That is not a good thing. You want to have something positive. The whole duty of man is to fear and serve God. That is the bottom line.

“I do not put any burdens on myself. It makes life that much easier. I just hope that I can live up to the expectations everyone has for me. I am going to give my best.”

The Hebrew Israelite faith has many of the same beliefs and observes the same holidays of the Jewish faith. For a time, Thompson would not fight on Fridays.

“After I lost my only fight, I talked to my father about my boxing career and my religion,’’ Thompson said. “My father, who is very devout, said ‘you are a man now and have a family to support.’ So, now I fight on Fridays.’’

During an impressive amateur career, the lifelong Philadelphia resident compiled a 151-9 record and won numerous titles, including national championships, Golden Glove titles, and PAL crowns.

“I won five straight national titles in 2000,” said Thompson, who started boxing when he was 10 years old. “I do not think anyone in amateur boxing has ever done that.’’

Despite his success in the nationals, the heralded amateur failed to make the 2000 United States Olympic team. He was considered a virtual lock to make the 2004 squad, but opted instead to turn pro. First, though, Thompson went to school at Temple University in Philadelphia for a semester.

“I had a 3.0 grade point average,” Thompson said. “It was hard to leave school, but I had to follow my heart. I do not regret it.’’

Thompson turned pro at age 20 on March 17, 2002, and won his initial 15 starts. However, in a stunning result, he suffered a third-round TKO to Grady Brewer on Feb. 28, 2004, in Las Vegas. After boxing effectively and winning the first two rounds, Thompson got caught with a vicious left uppercut that sent him down to the canvas. The referee stopped the bout without a count at 2:10.

“I tried to put the Brewer fight behind me quickly,” said Thompson, has won five straight since, including a third-round knockout over Adrian Lopez on Dec. 23, 2005. “I lost focus in that fight, but Brewer is a tough guy and definitely underrated. I just got caught with a good shot.’’

Boone, 26, has been fighting as a pro for more than 18 months. He has fought from 156 to 169 pounds, and has been very active in the ring with 11 fights in the past 13 months. He fought seven times in 2005. His bout against Thompson will represent his fifth appearance of 2006.

In his last eight bouts, Boone has fought on the road against hometown or “house” fighters, all of whom were favored to win. During that span, Boone notched three impressive wins against previously undefeated prospects and had two questionable losses.

In his last outing, Boone dropped an eight-round unanimous nod (79-73 and 77-75 twice) to Enrique Ornelas (22-2 going in) on March 3, 2006. After Ornelas built an early lead, Boone rallied in the second half. However, it was not enough to secure the decision. Following the announcement of the winner, the fans booed.

In one of Boone’s most noteworthy performances, he scored a devastating knockdown of 2004 Olympic gold medalist Andre Ward on Nov. 19, 2005. After Ward went down in the fourth, he managed to recover for the sixth and final round. Ward edged Boone on all three judges’ scorecards (59-55, 58-56 and 57-56), but suffered the first knockdown of his career. Although Ward took the decision, Boone established himself as a tough challenger.

“Everybody knows I won that fight,” said Boone.

In the super lightweight co-feature, Ortiz, 19, has won five consecutive contests since suffering his lone loss on a first-round disqualification to Corey Alarcon on June 3, 2005, from Oxnard, Calif. Ortiz dropped his foe in the first, but he got up and action resumed. Moments after the referee had separated the boxers from a clinch, Ortiz scored another knockdown that put Alarcon flat on his back. This time, Alarcon did not get up. However, the punch was ruled illegal by the referee and Ortiz was disqualified.

“I thought the decision was total bull,” Ortiz said. “The referee said, ‘Box out.’ He did not say break. I think it was a cop out what Alarcon did. People saw that I was not hurt and I did not lose this fight. The ref never called a break. He was tongue-tied. He just tapped me on my arm. Alarcon was already weak and did not want to fight.”

A fast, smart, talented youngster who was the National Junior Olympic champion and National PAL champion in 2003, Ortiz has won three consecutive bouts inside of the distance. In his most recent effort, Ortiz stopped Nestor Rosas in the fifth round on Feb. 10, 2006, in San Antonio, Texas.

Barrera is a busy fighter who makes for fast-paced, exciting bouts. His streak of points victories ended in his last start when he scored a fifth-round KO over southpaw Daniel Gonzalez on Feb. 17, 2006, from Ontario, Calif.

“It was the best feeling I have had,” said Barrera, referring to his first knockout. The referee halted matters at 2:25 as Barrera was unloading rights and lefts on Gonzalez.

“Gonzalez’ body shots slowed me down, but he never hurt me,” Barrera said. “I was able to land the right hand whenever I wanted. I think the right hands were what worked for me best.”

The telecast represents the 74th in the “ShoBox” series, which debuted on SHOWTIME in July 2001. “ShoBox” features up-and-coming prospects determined to make a mark and eventually fight for a chance at a world title. A number of fighters who have appeared on the series have gone on to become world champions, including Jeff Lacy, Ricky Hatton, Juan Diaz, Leonard Dorin, Joan Guzman and Scott Harrison.

Nick Charles will call the action from ringside, with Steve Farhood serving as expert analyst. The executive producer of the telecast is Gordon Hall, with Richard Gaughan producing.

For information on “ShoBox: The New Generation” and SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecasts, including complete fighter bios, records, related stories and more, please go the SHOWTIME website at http://www.sho.com/boxing.


If you have any questions, comments or suggestions you can email Philly Keith at keithfmt3@hotmail.com

Return to www.phillykeith.com for more great sports coverage

Stevie Johnston calls out Ricky Hatton

Dear Ricky,

I have all the respect in the world for you and what you’ve accomplished in
boxing. You are a true champion with a big heart. I’m writing this letter to
call you on some of the comments you made a few weeks ago as a guest on
ESPN.

You said that you’ve come to America to train and fight, let the American
public have a chance to see you in action, and test your skills against the
best fighters America has to offer in your weight class.

I am the best available light welterweight contender in America, bar none.
Floyd (Mayweather) is moving up to fight Zab (Judah), forget about Chop Chop
(Corley). He’s had three title shots in the last three years and lost them
all to (Miguel) Cotto, Mayweather and Judah.

You didn’t come all the way to the United States to fight a non-American,
did you? If you sincerely want to fight the best American light welterweight
May 13 at Foxwoods, on HBO, well, I’m the man!

Check out my pedigree: I’m the present 140-pound IBO champion. I held the
WBC lightweight belt twice between 1997 and 2000 with seven successful title
defenses. I’ve beaten six world champions — Sharmba Mitchell, Jean
Ba[tiste Mendy, Saul Duran, Cesar Bazan, Angel Manfredy and James Page –
seven if you include Jose Luis Castillo. I really beat him, but they changed
it to a draw a half-hour after the fight ended.

You’re tough, real tough, but I’ve overcome a car accident that could have
killed me. It kept me out of the ring for 2 ½ years. I went right through
the windshield and had to have more than 100 stitches in my face.

First, I read that you were going to fight Juan Lazcano, who ended up
breaking his finger in training, and now I’ve heard you’re going to fight a
mandatory defense against (Naoufel Ben) Rabah. I thought you wanted to fight
the best American? Lazcano’s from Mexico, Rabah’s Australian.

I was born and raised in Denver (CO) and now live in Vero Beach (FL). You
can’t get any more American than me. I’ll wear red, white and blue trunks
with stars and stripes if you like. Whatever it takes to get you in the
ring, let’s get it on.

Styles make fights. Hatton-Johnston is a classic match-up. You’re a power
puncher; I’m a boxer. You’ve never fought anybody like me. I’ll show you
things you’ve never seen before. HBO loves me. Boxing fans all over the
world know what I bring every time I go up those three steps.

Ricky, it’s time for you to back up what you said on television. Are you
“The Hitman,” or “The Hidden Man?” Accept my challenge, Ricky, or go back to
England with your tail between your legs.

Respectfully yours,

Stevie “Lil’ But Bad” Johnston

Silverhawk Boxing challenges Fight Academy for Hatton-Johnston fight

LAS VEGAS (March 20, 2006) – Silverhawk Boxing, on behalf of former two-time
world champion Stevie “Lil’ But Bad” Johnston, has issued a challenge to
Fight Academy for a title fight May 13 at Foxwoods Resort Casino against IBF
& WBA junior welterweight champion Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton.

“I’m personally asking Hatton’s promoters, Dennis Hobson and Robert
Waterman, to accept our challenge for Hatton to defend his belts against
America’s top junior welterweight contender, Stevie Johnston,” Silverhawk
Boxing owner Dennis Rider said. “Stevie’s beaten the world’s best fighters
the
last 10 years and he’s proven to be most deserving of a world title shot
against Hatton.

“Styles make fights and Hatton-Johnston would be a classic puncher-boxer
match between two world-class, champion fighters. The public wants to see
Hatton in against an opponent who isn’t just going to stand in front of him.
Stevie Johnston is the answer.”

If you have any questions, comments or suggestions you can email Philly Keith at keithfmt3@hotmail.com

Return to www.phillykeith.com for more great sports coverage

Jerson Ravelo interview

Jerson Ravelo – Rising from the ashes

Rewind back to 2002 and Jerson Ravelo was one of the hottest Super Middleweight prospects in the game. His amateur credentials come equip with numerous awards, highlighted by winning the 1998 Golden Gloves Championship and a earning a spot on the 2000 Dominican Republic Olympic boxing team. He turned pro in 2001 and started his career by winning 13 straight fights. Then injuries crept their ugly face into the phenoms career. Ravelo began to experience back problems which kept him out of action for six month. He returned in spectacular fashion with a win over George Walton on Shobox in 2002. Unfortunately, during that fight Jerson broke his right hand, an injury which required two surgeries. He briefly returned in 2004 but in his words he wasn’t the same fighter as before. He lacked confidence and eventually suffered an upset loss on Friday Night Fights to David Lopez. Fast forward to 2006, not many people are talking about Jerson Ravelo but hopefully he is going to change that real soon. The hand is healed, the back is in good shape and most importantly the fire inside is burning to make a major splash on the boxing scene. Saddo boxing recently caught up with the 14 – 1 (9) Ravelo who restarts his journey of becoming a champion this Thursday in Manhattan on a DiBella Entertainment card.


Philly Keith: Jerson, Thanks for taking the time to speak with us today.

Jerson Ravelo: No Problem Keith, thanks for calling

PK: Let’s get started, what have you been doing for the past year and a half?

JR: Waiting for the right opportunity to present itself, I worked in Hopkins camp for the Taylor fight, also worked with Tarver for Jones III

PK: Bernard and Tarver are going to fight in June, who do you think will come out on top?

JR: I can’t answer that but I can say Bernard’s camp was harder

PK: What did you get out of working with Bernard and Tarver?

JR: I put in some rounds with both of them. It made me realize I can hang with these guys and that I am ready for a major fight.

PK: But you turned down a chance to fight USBA Super Middleweight Champion Yusef Mack a few months back

JR: Yes I did. Had I been training I would have taken it. Never did I think that I couldn’t beat him but it just wasn’t the right move at the time. Who did Yusef fight last?

PK: Tim Shocks

JR: Yeah, I was going to fight Tim Shocks when I was like 7- 0. I know Yusef’s a good fighter and all from the Hopkins camp but come on, you gotta step up the competition and see what you really got. If they call again I will definitely take it. No Doubt I would beat Yusef.


PK: I think you 2 would make for a really good fight. How is the hand & back, do you think you are back to your previous form?

JR: Before I wasn’t ready mentally when I returned, after the 2 surgeries I felt like I wasn’t good enough. Then I lost to a guy I shouldn’t have lost to. Now I feel great and am ready to become a champion.


PK: For those of us who haven’t had a chance to see you in the ring, what is your style?

JR: I’m a boxer / puncher. If a guy runs from me I’m gonna hunt him down. If someone tries to attack me I’m gonna make him look stupid. The way Calzaghe fought Lacy is the same fight I would used against Jeff, except that I would have put him out.


PK: Where do you see your career going within the next year? What are your short term goals?

JR: I am scheduled to fight March 9th on a DiBella card in Manhattan, and again on the 29th in NY. I am going to Dominican soon too which will feel good to go back to my homeland for a fight. I am looking to stay active and get in position for a title fight. My goals include not letting what happened to me early in my career happen again, I felt I was a bit mismanaged early. I’m a free agent right now. I want to be a part of a team, get some fights and get my name back out there. If I have to manage myself so be it, either way I’m trying to get fights. I’m not after the money, I want to become champion, but then again I don’t want to be stuck in a contract for 10 years and I can’t get out of it.


PK: Is there anyone in particular that you’re aiming for?

JR: I’d love to fight Lacy again; I beat him three times and only have one decision to show for it. We both have one loss on the pro record now; it would be a good fight. I am ready to take on anyone 160 though.

PK: Is there anything else that you’d like to say?

JR: Thanks everyone who been there for him, have people in business who kept in contact while I was gone, to those who thought I was retired, I’m not retired, you’re gonna see a lot of Jerson Ravelo in the near future.

Thanks a lot Jerson; I want that exclusive when you win the title!




If you have any questions, comments or suggestions you can email Philly Keith at keithfmt3@hotmail.com

Return to www.phillykeith.com for more great sports coverage