Insider breakdown of boxing weight classes

[A Little Bit Special]

Heavyweights

 

1. Vitali Klitschko (35-2)

 

Suffered thigh injury while jogging, forcing postponement of April 30 mandatory defense against former champ Hasim Rahman.

Next: July 23 vs. Rahman.

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

2. Chris Byrd (38-2-1)

Declined to go to Germany to defend belt in rematch with undeserving Wladimir Klitschko, and we don't blame him one iota.

Next: TBA

 

3. John Ruiz (40-5-1)

Can't believe we're saying this: We think he beats James Toney when they meet at Madison Square Garden.

Next: April 30 vs. Toney

 

4. Hasim Rahman (40-5-1)

Active ex-champ rebounded with five wins last year to earn another title shot, and the best part is that the fight is on HBO, not pay-per-view

Next: July 23 vs. V. Klitschko

 

5. James Toney (68-4-2)

He and promoter Dan Goossen can run their mouths all they want but until Toney beats a heavyweight other than a shot Evander Holyfield and an unknown Rydell Booker, we need more convincing that he can be champ.

Next: April 30 vs. Ruiz

 

6. Jameel McCline (31-4-3)

Represents a mammoth step up in class for 2000 U.S. Olympian Calvin Brock when they meet on ESPN's first pay-per-view card.

Next: April 23 vs. Brock.

 

7. Andrew Golota (38-5-1)

Fourth fight for a title could finally be the charm when he challenges Lamon Brewster in his adopted hometown of Chicago.

Next: May 21 vs. Brewster

 

8. Lamon Brewster (31-2)

Gets hit way too much to keep his belt for long.

Next: May 21 vs. Golota

 

9. Monte Barrett (31-3)

Showed tremendous heart to overcome such a bad cut in his ninth-round TKO of Owen Beck in February. Supposed to get the winner of V. Klitschko-Rahman.

Next: TBA

 

10. Fres Oquendo (24-3)

Promoter Don King released him from his promotional contract for undisclosed reasons, something of a surprise given how heavily involved in the heavyweight division King is.

Next: May 21 vs. TBA

 

 

Cruiserweights

 

1. Jean-Marc Mormeck (31-2)

 

French force dominated Wayne Braithwaite to become first cruiserweight to unify belts since Evander Holyfield beat Carlos De Leon to become undisputed champ in 1988.

Next: TBA

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

2. Johnny Nelson (44-12-2)

He's boring to watch and doesn't fight too often but he's successfully defended his piece of the title 13 times, going 12-0-1.

Next: TBA vs. Vincenzo Cantatore.

 

3. Wayne Brathwaite (21-1)

Fought a dumb fight against Mormeck and paid for it with his title and unbeaten record. But he has heart and he's fun to watch.

Next: TBA

 

4. O'Neil Bell (23-1-1)

Ridiculously overdue for a world title shot and finally gets crack at a vacant belt.

Next: May 20 vs. Dale Brown

 

5. Kelvin Davis (21-2-1)

Won a vacant belt last year but bankruptcy and problems with promoter Don King led to his being stripped before he could ever defend title.

Next: TBA

 

6. Carl Thompson (33-6)

Beloved Brit is never in a boring fight; rejuvenated career with upset knockout of rising star David Haye last fall.

Next: TBA

 

7. Dale Brown (33-3-1)

This Canadian's three losses are all in title bouts, including decisions to Mormeck, Braithwaite and Vassiliy Jirov, who is now a heavyweight. Fourth crack is on deck.

Next: May 20 vs. Bell

 

8. Steve Cunningham (17-0)

Showed he belonged among the top contenders with an excellent victory over Guillermo Jones on the Mormeck-Braithwaite undercard.

Next: TBA.

 

9. Virgil Hill (49-5)

Former champ hasn't fought since last May's close decision loss in a rematch with Mormeck and retirement seems to be calling.

Next: TBA

 

10. Alexander Gurov (37-4-1)

All four of Ukrainian southpaw's defeats are by knockout, most recently an eighth-round TKO to Mormeck in 2003. Next up is a European title defense against Vincenzo Rossitto in a rematch.

Next: TBA vs. Rossitto

[A Little Bit Special]

Light Heavyweights

 

1. Glen Johnson (42-9-2)

 

Rematch with Antonio Tarver headed for Memphis, a place Johnson figures to enjoy. It's the same city where he drilled Roy Jones last fall.

Next: June 18 vs. Tarver

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

2. Antonio Tarver (22-3)

First fight with Johnson was oh, so close. To make a statement, he better not leave any room for discussion in the rematch.

Next: June 18 vs. Johnson

 

3. Zsolt Erdei (22-0)

Retained slice of title with a split decision against Hugo Garay in February rematch; expected to appear on Calzaghe-Veit undercard against a former titlist.

Next: May 7 vs. Medhi Sahnoune

 

4. Roy Jones Jr. (49-3)

Will he or won't he fight again? We don't think even Jones knows the answer yet.

Next: TBA

 

5. Fabrice Tiozzo (47-2)

French star probably sent Dariusz Michalczewski into retirement with a sixth-round TKO to retain belt in February. Expected to defend against Germany's Thomas Ulrich this summer.

Next: TBA

 

6. Julio Gonzalez (37-2)

Former titlist hoping a win over another ex-champ, Montell Griffin, will propel him into another title opportunity.

Next: May 5 vs. Griffin

 

7. Clinton Woods (37-3-1)

In fourth shot at an alphabet belt since 2002, Brit finally got it, picking up title Johnson trashed in order to fight Tarver. Did it by stopping inexperienced Rico Hoye in the fifth round in March.

Next: TBA

 

8. Paul Briggs (23-1)

Don King-promoted Australian fights on Brewster-Golota undercard for belt Tarver pitched in order to facilitate fight with Johnson.

Next: May 21 vs. Tomasz Adamek

 

9. Dariusz Michalczewski (48-2)

Former titlist turns 37 in May and is coming off back-to-back losses, including a February knockout by Tiozzo. The end is near.

Next: TBA

 

10. Montell Griffin (47-5)

Former champ still hanging around on the fringes but can re-establish himself by defeating Gonzalez when they meet on Fox Sports Net's "Best darn Sports Show Period."

Next: May 5 vs. Gonzalez

 

Super Middleweights

 

1. Joe Calzaghe (38-0)

 

Oh, goody! He's defending belt in rematch with Mario Veit, who he drilled in one round already. What a pointless fight, pretty much like most of the fights he's had in his wasted career.

Next: May 7 vs. Veit

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

2. Mikkel Kessler (35-0).

Danish star going Down Under to defend belt in stiff test against a former titlist.

Next: May 11 vs. Anthony Mundine

 

3. Jeff Lacy (19-0)

Exciting puncher looked great dismantling amateur rival Rubin Williams in March. Next defense will be his first bout in hometown St. Petersburg, Fla., against a former champ.

Next: Aug. 6 vs. Robin Reid

 

4. Anthony Mundine (23-2)

Australian crowd will be on his side when he seeks to regain belt against Kessler.

Next: May 11 vs. Kessler

 

5. Markus Beyer (32-2)

Hung on against Danny Green last month to retain belt on a majority decision in their rematch.

Next: TBA

 

6. Danny Green (19-2)

Only losses are to Beyer, including last month, when he nearly had Beyer knocked out in 12th round.

Next: TBA

 

7. Syd Vanderpool (35-3)

Gave Lacy a serious fight when they fought for a vacant title last fall.

Next: April 22 vs. Alejandro Berrio

 

8. Robin Reid (38-4-1)

Former belt holder has won both of his fights since he was robbed against now-retired Sven Ottke in 2003, and now headed to the U.S. for title shot.

Next: Aug. 6 vs. Lacy

 

9. Librado Andrade (22-0)

Oscar De La Hoya protege is one of the best young (and exciting) fighters in the sport.

Next: May 13 vs. TBA

 

10. Otis Grant (36-2-1

Has won five straight against solid opposition since an almost five-year layoff following a bad car accident.

Next: June 18 vs. TBA

[A Little Bit Special]

Middleweights

 

1. Bernard Hopkins (46-2-1)

 

Made historic 20th defense with workmanlike decision against Howard Eastman, and now looking to fight young lion Jermain Taylor – if the deal can get worked out.

Next: July 16 vs. TBA

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

2. Felix Trinidad (42-1)

We're so happy he's out of retirement; HBO PPV fight with Wright another risky bout for Tito.

Next: May 14 vs. Wright

 

3. Felix Sturm (23-1)

Scored easy second-round knockout of ex-titlist Bert Schenk in March for third consecutive win since being robbed vs. Oscar De La Hoya. European title challenge to Morrade Hakkar probably next.

Next: TBA

 

4. Jermain Taylor (23-0)

In midst of high-stakes negotiations for July 16 fight with Hopkins. Better not blow an opportunity that won't come again.

Next: TBA

 

5. Howard Eastman (40-2)

Eccentric Brit went distance with Hopkins in February but never really looked like he was trying to win the fight.

Next: TBA

 

6. Oscar De La Hoya (37-4)

Golden Boy says he's going back down to 147 – more likely 154 – and plans to fight by the end of the year. In the meantime, he's having fun promoting.

Next: TBA

 

7. Sam Soliman (30-7)

Mandatory for Hopkins has won 18 consecutive fights and hasn't lost since 2001, although Australian has faced mediocre opposition.

Next: TBA

 

8. Antwun Echols (31-5-1)

After trying to make a run at 168 pounds, including losing to Mundine in a title bout, he's back at 160 and headlining Friday Night Fights in an elimination bout.

Next: April 15 vs. Kingsley Ikeke

 

9. Kingsley Ikeke (22-1)

Suspect or contender? We'll get our answer when he faces Echols.

Next: April 15 vs. Echols

 

10. Robert Allen (36-5)

Perennial contender hasn't fought since he was easily outpointed by Hopkins last summer, falling to 0-2 with a no contest against the champ.

Next: TBA

 

Jr. Middleweights

 

1. Winky Wright (48-3)

 

The 154 champ moving up to 160 for a must-see fight – a showdown with Felix Trinidad in what should be a fascinating match between boxer (Wright) and puncher (Trinidad).

Next: May 14 vs. Trinidad

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

2. Kassim Ouma (21-1-1)

What's not to like about this titlist? He throws punches in bunches, will fight anyone and always looks like he's having fun in the ring.

Next: TBA

 

3. Shane Mosley (39-4)

Although there's no shame in losing twice to Wright, former champ is going back down to 147 and will be in action on ESPN's first pay-per-view card

Next: April 23 vs. David Estrada

 

4. Daniel Santos (29-2-1)

Moles at Showtime say they'd have interest in a unification bout between Ouma and Santos. Amen.

Next: TBA

 

5. Ricardo Mayorga (26-5-1)

Nicaraguan puncher was supposed to return from loss to Trinidad to face Alex Garcia on HBO on the Brewster-Golota card but he pulled out of the fight.

Next: TBA

 

6.Travis Simms (24-0)

Despite having a title, fought only once in 2004 and once in 2003, and although promoter Don King has cards scheduled for April 30, May 14 and May 21 he won't be on any of them.

Next: TBA

 

7. Verno Phillips (38-9-1)

Former titlist has signed with promoter Artie Pelullo and faces Teddy Reid on ESPN2 in what shapes up like an exciting elimination bout.

Next: May 24 vs. Reid

 

8. Alex Terra Garcia (28-1)

Former belt holder still slated to appear on Brewster-Golota undercard even though Mayorga pulled out of their fight.

Next: May 21 vs. TBA

 

9. Javier Castillejo (58-5).

Which is a sicker joke: That he was dubbed an interim titlist by the WBC in the first place, or that the moronic organization stripped Wright to elevate him to full title holder? Moves like that help to kill boxing.

Next: TBA

 

10. Fernando Vargas (25-2)

Returned from 15-month layoff caused by a back injury to outpoint Raymond Joval on March 26. Vargas might not be what he once was, but it's nice to have him back.

Next: TBA

[A Little Bit Special]

Welterweights

 

1. Zab Judah (33-2)

 

New undisputed 147 champ finally showed maturity in impressive ninth-round TKO of Cory Spinks in their February rematch; mandatory fight on tap for Trinidad-Wright undercard.

Next: May 14 vs. Cosme Rivera

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

2. Antonio Margarito (31-4)

Quite literally boxed one of Sebastian Lujan's ears almost entirely off his head in February to set up excellent ESPN PPV showdown with Kermit Cintron.

Next: April 23 vs. Cintron

 

3. Cory Spinks (34-3)

Distractions of huge hometown crowd in St. Louis and the massive expectations surely contributed to TKO loss to Judah in their rematch.

Next: TBA

 

4. Kermit Cintron (24-0)

Hand injury kept him from appearing on card with Margarito in February but he's good to go for their long awaited fight.

Next: April 23 vs. Margarito

 

5. Manuel Gomez (27-10-1)

Upcoming Telefutura main event with one-time title challenger Antonio Diaz promises to be a blood-and-guts throwdown.

Next: May 6 vs. Antonio Diaz

 

6. Thomas Damgaard (34-0)

Danish contender has padded record feasting mainly on pastries. Time for him step up already.

Next: April 15 vs. Rocky Martinez

 

7. Luis Collazo (25-1)

On two weeks' notice, went to Jose Rivera's hometown of Worchester, Mass., and won a decision to claim a title

Next: TBA

 

8. Cosme Rivera (28-7-2)

That he is getting a shot at Judah is not the issue. That an organization – the miserable IBF in this case – would mandate that he get a title shot is an utter disgrace.

Next: May 14 vs. Judah

 

9. David Estrada (18-1)

Angelo Dundee-mentored contender gets a chance of a lifetime against Shane Mosley on next week's ESPN PPV card.

Next: April 23 vs. Mosley

 

10. Rafael Pineda (38-6)

Wily old vet hasn't fought since last May but when he did, he pushed Judah to the limit, losing a debatable split decision.

Next: TBA

 

Jr. Welterweights

 

1. Kostya Tszyu (31-1)

 

If true 140 champ beats Ricky Hatton, there are a slew of massive fights for him: De La Hoya, or a Judah rematch at 147, or a showdown with the Gatti-Mayweather winner.

Next: June 4 vs. Hatton

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

2. Arturo "Thunder" Gatti (39-6)

On behalf of most fans around the world: Please, oh please, shut Floyd Mayweather's big, fat, disrespectful, trash-talking mouth.

Next: June 25 vs. Mayweather

 

3. Floyd Mayweather Jr. (33-0)

With all the negotiating and posturing finally over, we can finally look forward to a big, big summer fight, one that sold out all 12,000-plus seats at Atlantic City's Boardwalk Hall in about a day.

Next: June 25 vs. Gatti

 

4. Miguel Cotto (23-0)

Rising star overcame rough spot to knock out DeMarcus Corley and retain belt in February. Now, he's set to face the man who defeated him in his opening bout at the 2000 Olympics.

Next: June 11 vs. Mohamed Abdullaev

 

5. Vivian Harris (25-1-1)

Needs to get in reality and take title defense against Arturo Morua being offered on Gatti-Mayweather undercard, even for short money, and make a statement that he belongs in the ring with the winner.

Next: TBA

 

6. Sharmba Mitchell (55-4)

After being dusted by Tszyu in November he's probably headed up to 147 pounds when (if?) he returns

Next: TBA

 

7. Ricky Hatton (38-0)

After seeing him on a recent Showtime interview, he didn't look close to 140 pounds, prompting many to dub him "Ricky Fatton." Better be in shape or Tszyu will destroy him.

Next: June 4 vs. Tszyu

 

8. Junior Witter (31-1-2)

He's 16-0 with 15 KOs since a decision loss to Zab Judah in 2000, including solid decision vs. Lovemore N'Dou in February on Hopkins-Eastman undercard.

Next: TBA

 

9. Oktay Urkal (34-3)

Despite consecutive losses to Harris, the fights were quite competitive. Now, he's set to move to 147 to challenge Frederic Klose for the European title.

Next: May 14 vs. Klose

 

10. DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley (29-4-1)

Former titlist nearly knocked out Cotto in exciting February brawl, prompting brief talk about a rematch.

Next: TBA

[A Little Bit Special]

Lightweights

 

1. Jose Luis Castillo (52-6-1)

 

Dominated Julio Diaz en route to a 10th-round TKO March 5 in what amounted to a man vs. a boy.

Next: May 7 vs. Diego Corrales

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

2. Diego Corrales (39-2)

Bailed out on Castillo twice so far. Let's hope he sticks this one out and their long awaited unification bout actually happens. On paper, it's one of the best fights of the year.

Next: May 7 vs. Castillo

 

3. Acelino "Popo" Freitas (36-1)

Brazil's most beloved athlete returned from last summer's loss to Corrales to beat Fernando Saucedo in December; probably will be named mandatory for winner of Castillo-Corrales.

Next: TBA

 

4. Joel Casamayor (31-3)

He'll fight anyone, one of the reasons he's taking a hard fight with little upside against a rising star.

Next: June 11 vs. Almazbek Raiymkulov

 

5. Juan Diaz (27-0)

Exciting title holder and Ebo Elder might break CompuBox record for punches thrown when they meet in excellent ESPN PPV matchup

Next: April 23 vs. Elder

 

6. Juan Lazcano (33-3-1)

Was supposed to return from last year's loss to Castillo, but erratic behavior and problems with Golden Boy Promotions led to him falling off Marco Antonio Barrera-Mzonke Fana card at the last minute.

Next: TBA

 

7. Julio Diaz (30-3)

Former title holder could not hang with far more experienced and rugged Castillo and was stopped in the 10th round in March.

Next: TBA

 

8. "Kid Diamond" Almazbek Raiymkulov (20-0)

Mini version of Tszyu is a future champion but fight with Casamayor will be toughest test so far.

Next: June 11 vs. Casamayor

 

9. Javier Jauregui (49-11-2)

Former titlist has won both of his bouts since losing a majority decision and his belt to Julio Diaz last year.

Next: TBA

 

10. Artur Grigorian (37-1)

Scored a knockout in September comeback fight after losing belt to Freitas early last year, and is said to be considering retirement.

Next: TBA

 

Jr. Lightweights

 

1. Marco Antonio Barrera (60-4)

 

Annihilated fraudulent mandatory Mzonke Fana in two one-sided rounds. He's had his gimme. Now we want either a fourth fight with Morales or a rematch with Pacquiao.

Next: TBA

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

2. Erik Morales (48-2)

Looked sensational last month defeating Manny Pacquiao in what is so far the fight of the year. Hall of Fame beckons when "El Terrible" and his iron chin retire.

Next: TBA

 

3. Manny Pacquiao (39-3-2)

No shame in losing to an all-time great like Morales in 130-pound debut. Rematch anyone? Yes, please.

Next: TBA

 

4. Yodsanan Nanthachai (43-2-1)

Defends his version of title on Ruiz-Toney undercard against an unknown mandatory from Panama. After that, will somebody please give this worthy champion a TV slot?

Next: April 30 vs. Vicente Mosquera

 

5. Carlos Hernandez (41-4-1)

Expect blood to flow when he meets Jesus Chavez on Showtime PPV undercard of Julio Cesar Chavez's farewell fight in Los Angeles.

Next: May 28 vs. Chavez

 

6. Jorge Barrios (43-2-1)

Dropped Mike Anchondo three times en route to a dominant fourth-round TKO to claim a vacant belt April 8. The ideal opponent for Barrera or Morales if they can't agree to fight each other.

Next: TBA

 

7. Jesus Chavez (40-3)

Out since injuring shoulder in title losing effort to Morales in February 2004, he'll return without a tuneup for what should be a spectacular action fight.

Next: May 28 vs. Hernandez

 

8. Robbie Peden (25-2)

Tough Australian knocked out Nate Campbell again in February rematch to claim belt that Morales had vacated.

Next: TBA

 

9. Cassius Baloyi (30-1)

South African outpointed countryman Lehlo Ledwaba on controversial decision in November, so they're doing it again

Next: April 16 vs. Ledwaba

 

10. Mike Anchondo (25-1)

Yielded version of title on the scales when he came in overweight for first defense and then got smashed by Barrios the next night. Could take awhile to recover.

Next: TBA

[A Little Bit Special]

Featherweights

 

1. Juan Manuel Marquez (43-2-1)

 

Unified champ could have his hands full with Victor Polo when they meet on Showtime in Castillo-Corrales co-feature.

Next: May 7 vs. Polo

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

2. Injin Chi (30-2-1)

Mandatory defense against Rocky Juarez is not set despite rumors. The fight goes to a purse bid Friday in Mexico City.

Next: TBA vs. Juarez

 

3. Scott Harrison (23-2-2)

Scottish hero headed to England to face Michael Brodie in what should be an outstanding fight, one Showtime will televise the night before Tszyu-Hatton.

Next: June 3 vs. Brodie

 

4. Victor Polo (34-4-2)

January draw vs. Harrison was highly debatable and just another example of his hard luck. Lost split decisions in three other title fights. Fifth title shot is on tap.

Next: May 7 vs. Marquez

 

5. Rocky Juarez (23-0)

If Main Events doesn't win purse bid for Chi fight or they don't reach a deal, Juarez will go after Marquez. Either way, we're in for a strong match.

Next: TBA vs. Chi

 

6. Chris John (34-0-1)

Title holder from Indonesia recently suffered a cut while training for defense against Derrick Gainer but intends to proceed with the fight.

Next: April 22 vs. Gainer

 

7. Manuel Medina (64-14)

If former five-time titlist opts to fight instead of retire, it could be at 130 pounds.

Next: TBA

 

8. Michael Brodie (35-2-1)

Manchester, England, native will have home crowd on his side when he challenges Harrison, but who knows what Brodie has left in tank after his last two fights – a draw and a loss in brutal encounters with Chi.

Next: June 3 vs. Harrison

 

9. Derrick Gainer (39-6-1)

With an unwatchable style and memories of his non-effort vs. Marquez seared into our memory, thank goodness he's been banished halfway around the world to Indonesia for his next fight.

Next: April 22 vs. John

 

10. Nicky Cook (24-0)

European champ and undefeated record are good credentials but he has fought a pretty low level of opposition.

Next: TBA vs. Dazzo Williams

 

Jr. Featherweights

 

1. Oscar Larios (55-3-1)

 

Although it was closer than most expected, retained title in excellent fight with tough Wayne McCullough in February, but injured arm in the fight, forcing cancellation of unification bout with Joan Guzman.

Next: TBA

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

2. Joan Guzman (22-0)

Powerful 122-pound titlist nicknamed "Little Tyson" is a crowd pleaser who just needs to be more active.

Next: April 22 vs. Fernando Beltran Jr.

 

3. Israel Vazquez (37-3)

Defended title with very impressive knockout performance against Art Simonyan in December; matchup with either Larios or Guzman would be a fight of the year candidate.

Next: May 31 vs. TBA

 

4. Mahyar Monshipour (26-2-2)

France-based titlist showing excellent power of late, knocking out seven opponents in a row, including former belt holders Yoddamrong Sithyodthong and Salim Medjkoune (twice).

Next: April 29 vs. Shigeru Nakazato

 

5. Wayne McCullough (27-5)

Considering how competitive he was with Larios and how poorly he fared while at 126 pounds, he made the smart move coming back down. A smarter move might be retirement after all the wars he's been in.

Next: TBA

 

Other contenders: Celestino Caballero, Jose Luis Valbuena, Yoddamrong Sithyodthong

[A Little Bit Special]

Bantamweights

 

1. Rafael Marquez (33-3)

 

Knockout artist defends against perennial contender Ricardo Vargas on undercard of Julio Cesar Chavez's farewell fight against Ivan Robinson on Showtime PPV.

Next: May 28 vs. Vargas

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

2. Veerapol Sahaprom (47-1-2)

Drilled Allan Fuentes in three rounds in February non-title bout to get ready for trip to Japan and his 15th title defense.

Next: April 16 vs. Hozumi Hasegawa

 

3. Ratanachai Sor Vorapin (62-8)

After six non-title bouts since taking belt from Carvajal in May 2004, he's set to face a stiff test from a former titlist and he's coming to the U.S. from Thailand to do it.

Next: June 4 vs. Mauricio Martinez

 

4. Cruz Carvajal (25-12-1)

Former titlist rebounded from losing belt to Vorapin with a sixth TKO of Jorge Lacierva in March; next up is a terrific matchup with South African star Silence Mabuza that will air on Telemundo.

Next: May 13 vs. Mabuza

 

5. Genaro Garcia (32-4)

Knocked out Marquez in the second round in 2000, and we've wanted to see a rematch since.

Next: TBA

 

Other contenders: Silence Mabuza, Jhonny Gonzalez, Toshiaki Nishioka, Wladimir Sidorenko, Ricardo Vargas.

 

Jr. Bantamweights

 

1. Martin Castillo (28-1)

 

Successfully – and easily – defended title against former 112 champ Eric Morel on Morales-Pacquiao card.

Next: TBA

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

2. Fernando Montiel (30-1-1)

Regained former belt with a surprisingly dominant seventh-round knockout of Ivan Hernandez on Barrera-Fana undercard.

Next: TBA

 

3. Luis Perez (22-1)

Idle since December 2003, long overdue mandatory scheduled for Ruiz-Toney undercard, according to promoter Don King.

Next: April 30 vs. Luis Bolano

 

4. Katsushige Kawashima (28-3)

Faces former champ Masamori Tokuyama for the third time with the winner mandated to fight fine American contender Jose Navarro.

Next: June 18 vs. Masamori Tokuyama

 

5. Ivan "Choko" Hernandez (20-1-1)

Got dominated and lost belt via seventh-round knockout on Barrera-Fana card. He was far too one-dimensional to handle the experience and diversity of a quality fighter like Montiel.

Next: TBA

 

Other contenders: Jose Navarro, Mark Johnson, Alexander Munoz, Masamori Tokuyama

 

Flyweights

 

1. Pongsaklek Wonjongkam (55-2)

 

Taking a non-title bout to get ready for his mandatory clash with Jorge Arce that is slated for the July 30 Christy Martin-Lucia Rijker Showtime PPV undercard.

Next: April 29 vs. Joven Jorda

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

2. Jorge Arce (39-3-1)

Former 108 champ made 112 debut in spectacular fashion, knocking out Hussein Hussein in the 10th round on Morales-Pacquiao undercard in a fight of the year candidate. Win earned him shot at Wonjongkam.

Next: July 30 vs. Wonjongkam

 

3. Lorenzo Parra (25-0)

Heads to South Korea for rematch with undeserving former 108 champ Yosam Choi with a heavy heart. His mother died in early April.

Next: April 22 vs.Choi

 

4. Vic Darchinyan (23-0)

Jeff Fenech-trained slugger made successful first title defense in March, stopping one-time top contender Mzukisi Sikali of South Africa in the eighth round.

Next: TBA

 

5. Irene Pacheco (28-1)

Long stretches of inactivity finally caught up with him and it cost him his title against Darchinyan.

Next: TBA

 

Other contenders: Rosendo Alvarez, Omar Narvaez, Hussein Hussein, Brahim Asloum

 

Jr. Flyweights & Strawweights

 

1. Nelson Dieppa (22-1-2)

 

Defends 108 title in mandatory bout on same card with Calderon as the two draw closer to a showdown.

Next: April 30 vs. Hugo Cazares

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

2. Victor Burgos (36-13-3)

108 titlist in interesting bout with former titlist Will Grigsby on Trinidad-Wright undercard.

Next: May 14 vs. Grigsby

 

3. Beibis Mendoza (29-3)

Will be on hostile turf in Panama when he fights for 108 title vacated by Rosendo Alvarez; he's predicting a knockout inside five rounds.

Next: April 29 vs. Roberto Vazquez

 

4. Ivan "Iron Boy" Calderon (21-0)

If he successfully defends 105 title this month in Puerto Rico, he'll land a high-exposure slot on the Gatti-Mayweather HBO PPV undercard.

Next: April 30 vs. Noel Tunacao

 

5. Yutaka Niida (17-1-3)

Two-time 105 titlist was lucky to retain belt in October when he scraped by Juan Landaeta on a split decision.

Next: April 16 vs. Jae Won Kim

 

Other contenders: Eric Ortiz, Muhammad Rachman

[seminoles]

thank you it was nice of you to go and do all that work but sorry to say, i dont think one person will read it all. but good job

[Brewer]

ummmm. That was nice and all, but you left the women out.

[whomper]

Im Surprised Byrd doesnt want to fight Wlad since Wlad beat his ass the first time they fought.

[whomper]

Boxing website

 

This is an awesome boxing site.It has the detailed records of every pro fighter past and present.

[whomper]

Toney Beat Ruiz..Not that big of a deal IMO.But it looks like Jermain Taylor will fight Bernard Hopkins in July..That will be awesome

[Tyler Rose]

Toney beating Ruiz is the best thing to hit the heavyweights in a looooooong time. Ruiz was a scourge on this division for too long. His two punches and clinch style was a nightmare to watch. I hope he sticks to his retirement as of last night and we are done with him and Stone in boxing forever....they were and are a disgrace.

[Tyler Rose]

PS- I think Hopkins takes Taylor by decision as Jermaine just isn't seasoned enough yet for all the tricks Bernard brings to the dance. Taylor will one day be champ and I give him credit for signing to fight Hopkins but it's too soon.

[whomper]

Toney beating Ruiz is the best thing to hit the heavyweights in a looooooong time. Ruiz was a scourge on this division for too long. His two punches and clinch style was a nightmare to watch. I hope he sticks to his retirement as of last night and we are done with him and Stone in boxing forever....they were and are a disgrace.

 

799715[/snapback]

 

 

 

 

 

PS- I think Hopkins takes Taylor by decision as Jermaine just isn't seasoned enough yet for all the tricks Bernard brings to the dance. Taylor will one day be champ and I give him credit for signing to fight Hopkins but it's too soon.

 

799717[/snapback]

 

 

 

 

I agree with both of these posts..Ruiz was painful to watch.Taylor will be a good challenge to Hopkins but needed a few more fights before he could take on Hopkins. Hopkins age played a factor in that. Hopkins is very smart and wanted to get Taylor early.

[Tyler Rose]

Yep, it has to be so frustrating for these guys fighting Hopkins because early on you are doing well and have to feel pretty good about the fight.......Bernard is just pushing you around on the inside a bit,touching you with a jab from time to time but the whole while he's measuring the distance and timing you. He's so patient but calculating......and uses his whole arm,elbows,shoulders to wear guys down and then counter the shots once he's got the timing down. A real throwback and a joy to watch. He'd be smart to beat Tayor,then Trinidad in a rematch(if Tito can beat Winky)then retire and just be a promoter.

[whomper]

Yep, it has to be so frustrating for these guys fighting Hopkins because early on you are doing well and have to feel pretty good about the fight.......Bernard is just pushing you around on the inside a bit,touching you with a jab from time to time but the whole while he's measuring the distance and timing you. He's so patient but calculating......and uses his whole arm,elbows,shoulders to wear guys down and then counter the shots once he's got the timing down. A real throwback and a joy to watch. He'd be smart to beat Tayor,then Trinidad in a rematch(if Tito can beat Winky)then retire and just be a promoter.

 

799728[/snapback]

 

 

 

 

 

Right..He still has the skills to be patient. Unlike Roy Jones who in his last fight just stood there and didnt have much Ammo late in the fight. Winky looked great Vs Sugar Shane . Tito may have trouble with Winky..Its a good time for Boxing .If only the heavyweights would shape up a little..I am impressed with Vitaly Klitscho though.

[Tyler Rose]

Yeah,the lower weight classes are carrying the sport right now. It's funny that the older Klitschko(Vitaly)actually turned out to be the better of the two after HBO had hitched thier wagon to Vladimir(and they are still trying to sell us this guy although his chin has been so exposed). I'm just worried about the lack of young heavyweights out there. Calvin Brock has potential but not alot of pizzaz. Sam Peter is moving up but hasn't faced anybody yet. I'm a little tired of the recycling of guys like Tyson and Tua just because there are no young guys making any moves. Byrd is still just a blown up cruiser or lightheavy and while Toney is wiley,tough and so experienced he too is just a blown up lightheavy.

[Perchoutofwater]

Thaks for the posts Little Bit. I have to agree with the others about Hopkins - Taylor. Taylor will be a stud, but this is too soon. Anyone know who is televising the Castillo-Corralles fight?

 

Edit: The Castillo - Corralles fight is Saturday night at 9EST on Showtime.

Edited May 5, 2005 by Perchoutofwater

[justin]

I like "The Contender". Where are those guys?

[Perchoutofwater]

The Castillo - Corralles fight is Saturday night at 9EST on Showtime.

 

803758[/snapback]

 

 

 

 

Just wanted to remind everyone. This should be a pretty good fight. Did anyone watch ShoBox last night? I don't even know who the fighers were, two no names, but it was an interesting 30 seconds or so. Right of the bat, it was like Rocky, where Rocky and Apollo hit each outher at the exact same time. Both guys ended up on the floor. I'd never seen that before. Then one of them gets up and hammers the other. The guy goes down, gets up, falls down, gets up and the falls down for good. Talk about being out on your feet. Wasn't much of a fight, but it was a brutal KO.

[Tyler Rose]

The Bundrage guy(the one who got knocked out)is a local fighter from here in Detroit. He was talking all kinds of smack to the local media before this fight but had never beaten anybody I'd even heard of. Unfortunately for him and the other fighter the ref seemed really confused by the double knockown and didn't administer a count to either guy. Not that a few more seconds to recover would have helped when that fist caught him square on the button but Bundrage sure could have used a standing eight count.He reminded me of Trevor Berbick after Tyson landed that left hook in round two....one punch...3 knockdowns.

Looking foward to tonights clash as Corrales has really looked good lately and beat the snot out of Freitas. I'm tired of Castillo hanging around the lightweight ranks and hope Diego can put a whuppin on him. He's a tough cookie though so it should be a war while it lasts.

[Perchoutofwater]

OMG! Did anyone watch the Corrales Castillo fight. It has to be an early candidate for fight of the year. Coralles knocked down twice in the 10th, and gets of the canvas to knowck out Castillio. Castillo was out on his feet agaisnt the ropes. unbelievable fight. The whole fight was a battle of hooks and upper cuts. 95% of the fight was on the inside. Awesome fight. I hope there is a rematch. This was a Gotti Ward type fight. If you missed, try to catch it when they replay it. Showtime usually replays the fights on Sunday. It will be well worth your time.

[Tyler Rose]

Fight of the year hands down!!! Coralles showed a ton of guts and will to pull it out. The left hooks they hit eachother with all night long were incredible!! That tenth round will go down in lightweight,if not all of boxing history. Losing the mouthpiece worked perfectly for Diego as the second time it really gave him a chance to recover as Goosen dragged a** getting it back in. The ref did his job perfectly though by penalizing Diego the point but in the long run it was a great respit for him. The stoppage was fine as well because Castillos hands went down and that last left hook he got hit with was to a completely unprotected chin. He could've gotten seriously hurt. This is the kind of fight that will effect these guys careers from here on out. You don't recover from these kind of grueling wars.

[Hitman]

OMG!  Did anyone watch the Corrales Castillo fight.  It has to be an early candidate for fight of the year.  Coralles knocked down twice in the 10th, and gets of the canvas to knowck out Castillio.  Castillo was out on his feet agaisnt the ropes.  unbelievable fight.  The whole fight was a battle of hooks and upper cuts.  95% of the fight was on the inside.  Awesome fight.  I hope there is a rematch.  This was a Gotti Ward type fight.  If you missed, try to catch it when they replay it.  Showtime usually replays the fights on Sunday.  It will be well worth your time.

 

806330[/snapback]

 

 

 

 

Yep...sure did. One of the best fights I've seen in a looong time. BTW, I'm an avid boxing guy, used to be alone here at the huddle...I've noticed the threads you guys have had going lately. Good stuff. Hopefully I'll have more time to provide some input in the threads as well. Definitely looking forward to Gatti/Mayweather....although I think Floyd will just indeed pick Gatti to pieces, probably swell or cut him up and stop him inside of 8. About the worst guy you could put in front of Gatti style wise.