ESPN

Dan Rafael

  (12:02 PM)

Greetings Fight Freaks! Welcome to our chat. Check out today's notebook, which is posted, and various news stories and yesterday's blog. Slow weekend, but plenty to talk about anyway. Let's get to it.

bobo orlando

What do you think of demetrius andrade?

Dan Rafael

  (12:03 PM)

I've seen him fight a few times -- in the Pan-Am Games and the Olympic trials. Good pro prospect, fast and good size for his division. I look forward to seeing him in the Olympics and then as a pro.

Sal (Chicago)

Dan you've been one of the very few who think Oscar vs Manny is worth seeing... Does Oscar gain anything if he wins, professional wise? I know the business aspect of it. but it seems like all risk, no reward to me

Dan Rafael

  (12:04 PM)

At this point, it's not about "gaining" something. I think it's an interesting fight and I want to see it despite what some other folks say. I know plenty of people in boxing who are intrigued by the it and think Manny can win. Bring it on.

Victor (SLC, UT)

WOW, one of your Olympic medal pics is out. Does the US have an alternate program?

Dan Rafael

  (12:05 PM)

There are alternates, but that won't happen. The draw is done and Gary Russell blew weight and is out. End of his road and end of the US participation at 119 pounds. A huge disappointment.

JAMESA(QUAD CITIES)

DAN, i love the MANNY vs. DLH fight. SO many story lines. Manny moving up ANOTHER WEIGHT. ROACH v. DLH. SWAN SONG. DLH v. MEXICAN ASSASIN. Which would be your favorite story line?

Dan Rafael

  (12:05 PM)

See, I am not alone. All good stories.

Mike (Clawson, MI)

What a sad story about Gary Russell Jr. I know it's common in boxing, but do you think it was irresponsible of USA Boxing to expect a still-growing 20-year-old to drop 6 lbs from where he had fought for a year?

Dan Rafael

  (12:05 PM)

Maybe so, but the young man and his family are also responsible.

Pat (NY)

I'd rather see Pacman vs Soto, winner fights Marquez.

Dan Rafael

  (12:06 PM)

After De La Hoya-Pacquiao that is fine. Do you not understand that Manny probably can make three the money or more to fight Oscar than he can to fight anyone else?

steelcitypwns

I cannot believe how many people are dogging the Manny/Oscar fight, sure its not the BEST one out there but why look away and criticize action!

Dan Rafael

  (12:07 PM)

Exactly. Like the fight or not, every boxing fan will buy it and no matter what happens, it will be explosive.

Andrew (Buffalo)

Is there really a World Boxing Empire?

Dan Rafael

  (12:07 PM)

So I have been told. I looked on the Internet to see if it was related to Star Wars, but I couldn't find anything.

Josh (Lincoln, NE)

Want to give us a sneak peak at your pick for Katsidis-Diaz?

Dan Rafael

  (12:08 PM)

Diaz.

yorkis (philly)

Oscar ate plenty of clean shots from Forbes, who has one-tenth of Pacman's talent! why couldn't Pacman win? Would Oscar even be the favorite?

Dan Rafael

  (12:08 PM)

I have wondered that myself.

Josh (Lincoln, NE)

You've gotta be feeling pretty good after some boxing writers called the DLH-Pacman fight pure fantasy

Dan Rafael

  (12:08 PM)

It isn't fantasy anymore!

Boba Fett

Where should I deliver Winky Wright?

Dan Rafael

  (12:09 PM)

Jabba's Palace.

Pat (NY)

With Margarito/Clotty looking like Dodger stadium where does that leave Paul williams? Maybe Collazo?

Dan Rafael

  (12:10 PM)

Margarito-Clottey 2 is a long way from a done deal. Frankly. I am skeptical it happens on Nov.1. I believe Margarito may well be fighting someone else. As for Williams, looks like Nov. 29 on HBO. Collazo is an opponent that has been mentioned, but, again, nowhere even near a deal.

Jeff Las Vegas

Dan One of the most interesting espn boxing polls ever will be DLH vs Pac ko or decision.

Dan Rafael

  (12:10 PM)

Agreed.

Mike (Fairfax, VA)

I think people are dogging the Pac/DLH fight for the same reason you are dogging the Pavlik Hopkins fight...I dont get it...One of the best middleweights in history vs. the current champ...Youth vs. experience...And two of the top pound for pound fighters facing off...Cmon dan, have you softened your stance a tad?

Dan Rafael

  (12:11 PM)

Here's the different: Oscar-Pacquiao figures to be action-packed. The same can't be said for Pavlik-Hopkins.

Brian (DC)

Margarito-Cotto couldn't even sell out a Vegas arena. Margarito-Clottey at Dodger Stadium will never happen, the place would be near empty.

Dan Rafael

  (12:14 PM)

You can think what you want and I think there's a good chance the fight will go elsewhere, but I can tell you this: On Wednesday Arum did meet with Dodger Stadium officials and his logistics person was there to do a site survey and to plot out where the ring would be, etc... They would configure the stadium for about 30,000 people with about 2,500 seats on the field. Keep in mind that with Chavez Jr. on the undercard it would draw a lot of Mexican fans. And by putting Donaire on you will draw Filipinos and with Martirosyan on you draw the Armenians from Glendale, who have been very supportive of Martirosyan. If the fight is at Dodger Stadium it becomes an event, not just another fight and there would be a lot more media coverage and interest than normal.

Sal (Chicago)

Dan my views on Manny/DLH are still NO ONE seems to acknowledge how much Oscar wants his Mexican fans to root for him in his final fight...yes Margarito is dangerous and from a money perspective wasn't the best... BUT the MAIN REASON the fight didn't take place is Oscar knew that crowd would be pro Margs. Do you not agree?

Dan Rafael

  (12:14 PM)

That could be on the list of pros and cons.

mike (phila. pa)

what do you see next for andre berto? any chance of berto - margarito?

Dan Rafael

  (12:15 PM)

No. Berto is fighting Steve Forbes on the Mosley-Mayorga undercard.

RAM (Cebu City, Philippines)

Which promoter do you think is the best in building a fighter?Personally, I think its Top Rank. They build Erik Morales and Kelly Pavlik into a world champion really good.

Dan Rafael

  (12:17 PM)

Obviously, it's Top Rank. They have built a ton of champions from 0-0 into champions. Morales isn't even one of them because they got Morales after he had several fights. But just in recent years they've done it with Pavlik, Luevano, Oscar, Mayweather, Calderon, Juan Manuel Lopez, Cotto, and on and on it goes.

yorkis (philly)

Once upon a time, Max Kellerman held down this chat for the Freaks. Now, he's doing a pretty good job on HBO. Could that be your next stop too, DR?

Dan Rafael

  (12:21 PM)

One never knows.

Brian (DC)

Were there ever any finalized PPV buy numbers for Cotto-Margarito?

Dan Rafael

  (12:21 PM)

The fight did about 450,000.

Joe (Green Bay)

Dan, any word on possible fights for the FNF Season Finale?

Dan Rafael

  (12:22 PM)

Probably a James Kirkland fight in his hometown of Austin, Texas.

Gerardo, Chicago, IL

Dan. Is the animosity between Bob Arum and Al haymon so strong that we might never see a rematch between Margario and Williams?

Dan Rafael

  (12:22 PM)

Never is a long time.

chris MA

hey with a great night of fights coming up on sept 13th what card do you plan on watching Joel Casamayor vs. Juan Manuel Marquez or Nate Campbell vs. Joan Guzman, and who do you see winning those fights

Dan Rafael

  (12:23 PM)

I am going to be ringside for Casamayor-Marquez and I will check out the other fight on the DVR when I get home on Sunday. No picks yet. Have no made up my mind.

Matt (Philly)

Is there anyway that Pavlik can get Hopkins to fight at a higher pace? Fight pavlik's fight and not hopkins fight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:24 PM)

That is exactly what Kelly will be trying to do. If he can make BHop fight at a fast pace, it means Pavlik is in control and that will benefit him.

g(atl)

I like Cotto's quote in your notebook. I think he can come back strong from this loss. Buy or sell cotto-margs 2 next summer?

Dan Rafael

  (12:25 PM)

I'm not sure when, but I see a rematch happening down the road. It was a great fight, it did big business and everyone I know wants to see it again.

Ben (NJ)

Dan, Cotto indicated that he will be fighting before years end. Do you know any insight on to whom Arum would be willing to match him with and don't you think he should just take the rest of the year off? It seems that he has his a chip on his shoulder with the loss but this could be his own worse enemy

Dan Rafael

  (12:27 PM)

I do not think that at the end of the day Cotto will fight again in 2008.

Tommy (Detroit)

Hey Dan, I wanted to ask you if you were surpised at the number of people on the ESPN poll that said said Zab should retire? I think he will still be in the mix for bigger fights, mostly becasue of his name and the way he fought last week.

Dan Rafael

  (12:28 PM)

I was surprised also. And I agree with you. He has become a gatekeeper, but still makes things interesting.

chris ,Ma

do you see pacman vs marquez III anytime this year?

Dan Rafael

  (12:29 PM)

No chance whatsoever this year.

shower door

i want cotto

mike (ohio)

Dapper Dan, who is Wladimer Klitschko fighting next? Is it still Povetkin or does that get put off til 2009?

Dan Rafael

  (12:29 PM)

Probably Povetkin, who is a mandatory and the mandatory is due.

Norberto (PR)

any news on the calderon-cazares undercard?

Dan Rafael

  (12:30 PM)

It's listed on the ESPN.com fight schedule I maintain, so check it out.

Jeff Las Vegas

Say Pacman beats DLH there's no way Arum matches him with A Marg. . .right?

Dan Rafael

  (12:30 PM)

No way. If Manny fights Oscar, it would likely be a one-shot deal at welterweight.

Dan (Nutley, NJ)

You interested in tonight's FNF main event at all? What do you think of Cloud?

Dan Rafael

  (12:31 PM)

Yes, I am interested. I want to see if Julio Gonzalez has anything left and I am interested in seeing Cloud for the first time.

Dan Rafael

  (12:32 PM)

By the way -- this is a F**** M********* J*. free chat.

Rick, Marina,CA

Margo will kill Pacman, plain and simple Jeff.

King Kong Agbeko

Should I just retire? How ridiculous is my situation?

Dan Rafael

  (12:33 PM)

It's disgusting that he hasn't fought since last fall and has had a mandatory fight against an unworthy mandatory challenger called off three times. Let's get it done with already.

Tom (Danbury,CT)

Can you please confirm to us the amount of Ricky Hatton's there are?

Dan Rafael

  (12:33 PM)

Just one.

Mike (Chicago)

Any word on Gamboa's opponent for 10/4

Dan Rafael

  (12:33 PM)

Probably Marcos Ramirez.

Jim (LA)

Prediction for number of PPV buys for Pacquiao-DLH?

Dan Rafael

  (12:33 PM)

Way more than 1 million.

Mike (Chicago)

Does HBO have any dates left in 2008 for Wlad-Povetkin?

Dan Rafael

  (12:34 PM)

When I look at the calendar the only date that seems possible is Dec. 13, which is the date under discussion.

Mike (Chicago)

Anything new on David Haye's opponent?

Dan Rafael

  (12:34 PM)

No.

Mike

Why not Berto-Judah at MSG? Judah still has a lot leftin the tank. Gatekeeper is a little strong considering the opposition that Judah has faced. Losses to Clottey, PBF and Cotto doesnt put you at gatekeeper status.

Dan Rafael

  (12:35 PM)

I think Berto-Judah in a fight or two for Berto is an excellent fight and an excellent test for Andre.

g(atl)

Any Oscar Diaz updates?

Dan Rafael

  (12:35 PM)

Unfortunately, as far as I know it's the same: He remains in a coma.

Mike (Fairfax, VA)

Stupid poll on the boxing page...No reason for Judah to retire...

Dan Rafael

  (12:36 PM)

I agree.

george (ohio)

can you tell me if and when the contender is coming back and do you think the show is good for boxing? thanks.

Dan Rafael

  (12:37 PM)

Yes, it will be back this fall on Versus. I do think it's good overall for the sport.

Tom (Danbury,CT)

Is Victor Ortiz still possible for 9/13?

Dan Rafael

  (12:37 PM)

Yes, that is being discussed.

Rick, Marina, Ca

I personally think Judah and Clottey should have a rematch.

Dan Rafael

  (12:38 PM)

It's very unlikely unless Zab does something in the future to make it necessary.

Williams fan

since Margaritos people dont want Williams (unfortunately) how about Williams v. Cintron since Williams cant find opponents and its a fight that was already supposed to happen

Dan Rafael

  (12:39 PM)

Cintron is damaged goods right now. He needs to clean himself up with a win before he is viable to challenge for a title.

Tom (Danbury,CT)

Can we get Ding-A-Ling Man on the contender?

Dan Rafael

  (12:39 PM)

He is probably going to be on the new season.

joe, boston

do you think that sergio mora is a legitimate titlist or was it a case of him just getting lucky, do you even give him a chance in his upcoming fight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:40 PM)

Of course he is. He beat a very good fighter in Vernon Forrest and did so without a hint of controversy. Of course, he has a chance to repeat it in the rematch.

John Houma, LA

Dan, do you think Vic Darchinyan can dominate at Junior Bantamweight like he did at Flyweight ?

Dan Rafael

  (12:40 PM)

No. He's exciting, but he has way too many flaws to dominate.

Tomas (MD)

Dan, you think Love Child wins his matchup next week? Also, do you see him winning a title at 154?

Dan Rafael

  (12:42 PM)

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, the Love Child. Yes, Joel Julio is back in action next week on WNF against Varela. I do expect a knockout victory. If that happens, a title shot could come later this year, possibly an interim title bout with Sergio Martinez on Oct. 4 on HBO.

Margarito Fans

You Williams fans need to chill out and wait your turn. Your boy needed a rematch to knock out Quintana. Margarito will duck no one and Williams is on the agenda just not this year he was just in a war with Cotto.

Michael (Toronto)

DTM, why do Joe and Teddy talk over the ring announcer during fighter introductions?

Dan Rafael

  (12:43 PM)

I have no idea.

Rob (Halifax, Canada)

What are the chances Taylor-Lacy lands in Vegas? I'm going to see Hatton and with the pre-fight buzz the whole week will be entertaining

Dan Rafael

  (12:44 PM)

Unlikely.

David (Nashville)

Dan, any word on whether Taylor-Lacy is still being considered for Nashville? You think Cintron might be on that card?

Dan Rafael

  (12:44 PM)

Lou DiBella told me yesterday that Biloxi, Miss., was the likely site, but that Florida, Nashville and even Los Angeles were in the running. And, yes, that is where Lou said Cintron would make his return.

bob nj

do you think that we'll ever see Calzaghe vs palvik ?

Dan Rafael

  (12:45 PM)

I think if Pavlik beats BHop and Calzaghe beats Jones, that is very possibly the next fight for both of them in the first part of next year.

Don (Buffalo)

Is Arthur Abraham the only serious threat to Pavlik at middleweight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:46 PM)

At this moment, yes.

Mike (Fairfax, VA)

Kessler is really throwing his career down the tube...First one ridiculous mandatory after turning down the Miranda fight, and now another one...He needs to fight the winner of Taylor-Lacy...

Dan Rafael

  (12:47 PM)

Not a bad idea, but he seems content fighting stiffs in Europe.

Johann (bristol, CT)

Dan- Based on their boxing careers after the Olympics, who are your most disappointing US Olympic medalists in recent memory?

Dan Rafael

  (12:48 PM)

Ricardo Williams Jr.

Joe (NYC)

Is that fight for John "bloody" Duddy going to come off at 154 against Phillips? Seems like it's been TBA for a while now.

Dan Rafael

  (12:49 PM)

It seems unlikely at the moment. There have been a lot of issues.

steelcitypwns

am i the only one who would be interested in a winky/kessler showdown?

Dan Rafael

  (12:49 PM)

I'd actually like that -- gets both guys active in a decent fight and is somewhat meaningful and it's a fight HBO would certainly be into.

Tony(Tampa)

Dan,I like Lacy, met him a couple of times and a cool guy, but do you give him any shot of beating Taylor?

Dan Rafael

  (12:51 PM)

Jeff's a cool guy and I've always liked him. But putting any personal like for either guy aside and just calling it like I see it -- I think Taylor wins.

Craig D. Pennsylvania

Dan the man the boxing fan--I dvr every fight I watch although after the dvr is full I delete some fights. How do you get the fights from dvr to dvd?

Dan Rafael

  (12:51 PM)

I have two DVRs and each is connected to a DVD/VCR combo recorder. Pretty simple.

Paul B (NY, NY)

2 points- #1) I like your bet with Ellerbe you mentioned last week. Have him take you somewhere nice! #2) After watching Clottey last weekend, I actually think he would have a very good chance at beating Margs. They are both beasts! Who in your opinion is the stronger of the two?

Dan Rafael

  (12:53 PM)

Well the first time Clottey and Margarito fought, Margarito won a legit decision in a pretty good fight. I would lean to Margarito winning a rematch as well.

Silv (NY, NY)

Anyone that doesn't want to see Manny take his shot against Oscar simply isn't a boxing fan. Does Billy Conn vs. Joe Louis ring a bell to anyone?

Doegeta (taunton, ma)

d$$- when will cnbc air the olympic boxing matches so i know when 2 set my dvr?

Dan Rafael

  (12:54 PM)

Late night -- like 2 am or so -- and again in the late afternoon. Daily.

World Boxing Empire

Now witness the power of this fully operational sanctioning body!

Joel Julio

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, Me!!!!!!!!!!!!

steelcitypwns

"I have two DVRs and each is connected to a DVD/VCR combo recorder"Brilliant, my next move

Dan Rafael

  (12:56 PM)

It makes recording fights so easy. When you have it on the DVR you know exactly how long the telecast is and then you simply set the DVD recorder for the exact time with the "flexible recording" selection. I don't think that is available on a lot of DVD recorders, but it is on the Panasonic, which I swear by.

Frank(Phx)

Dan, read on the notebook that Tarver/Dawson was going to be at the Palms. I think I'm gonna be down there for my Bachelor party that weekend, would be great to go with all the guys. How much you think tickets would run for some good seats?

Dan Rafael

  (12:56 PM)

Best seats in the house probably won't be more than $300.

Eddie (Dallas, Texas)

Dan,who did you have winning both of the Hopkins vs Taylor fights?

Dan Rafael

  (12:57 PM)

I had the first fight a draw and I had Taylor winning the second fight, and I was ringside for both.

yorkis (philly)

Did you also find Clottey calling out Berto a bit ridiculous?

Dan Rafael

  (12:58 PM)

Why would it be ridiculous for him to call out a guy with a title for a unification?

Rich (Evanston, IL)

Any chance that you can get the MIA RAD chat from Saturday archived? I missed it and would love to read some your Clottey-Judah comments

Dan Rafael

  (12:58 PM)

It should make it into the archive in a day or two. I noticed it was missing and asked for the archive to be updated.

Sean Richmond VA

For all those who are against PAcman-DLH please Keep in mind. The reason Why boxing hs suffered through the years is because of the lack of BIG EVENTS. DEC 6 is a BIG EVENT that the sport needs to consistently put on to stay effectively visible in the mainstream scope of things

Carlos (Funky Town, TX)

I think the DLH vs Pacquiao is going to be an action fight that the people will want to see and it will put Manny as the next superstar boxer. His rubber match with Marquez will benefit from him fighting DLH.

Jeff (Redondo Beach, CA)

That quote from Cotto in the Notebook made me smile. It sounds like he won't go into hiding for awhile like most undefeated fighters do after their first loss.

Erik (Atlanta, Ga.)

Dan I'm a loyal reader of the blogs, as all freaks should be! But when you had the countdown to Ruiz/Valuev for some reason I got a little sleepy not sure why.

Craig ( Pittsburgh, PA)

Anyone who complains about the Oscar - Manny fight is banned!!

Big M (Atlanta)

Thanks for letting us know where to catch the olympic fight action!

Dan Rafael

  (1:00 PM)

It starts late-night tonight.

Ryan (Fairport, NY)

Dan-O! Is Deontay Wilder at 201 pounds considered a heavyweight or a cruiserweight in the Olympics?

Dan Rafael

  (1:00 PM)

In the Olympics up to 201 pounds is a heavyweight. 201 and above is super heavyweight.

Big M (Atlanta)

Glad to see Clottey's arm ok, to set up future fights. Haven't heard from Collazo - any news on him?

Dan Rafael

  (1:01 PM)

Collazo is just waiting for something to happen. I know he and his team are frustrated by the lack of activity.

Dave, NJ

Dan, Oscar is saying that Dec 6 is his last fight... do you believe him or will we see him again in 2009?

Dan Rafael

  (1:02 PM)

He says it's his last fight. Will he change his mind? Of course that is possible. Oscar has said a lot of things and then changed his mind, which he is entitled to do.

Anthony (sacramento)

Dano! In your opinion who wins in a all time fantasy fight between Erik Morales and Juan Manual Marquez at featherweight in their primes? I pick Morales by decision after probally putting Marquez on the canvas.

Dan Rafael

  (1:02 PM)

In their primes, I like Morales.

Chris (Los Angeles)

D$ - If Pacquiao goes up to 147 to fight DLH I assume that it's a one shot trip. My question is, even if he were to upset Oscar don't you think he will have a big problem moving back down and being the "same old" Manny?

Dan Rafael

  (1:03 PM)

If he won, I could see him going down to 140 for another mega fight with Hatton if Hatton beat Malignaggi. That is a fight I know Freddie Roach would love to see happen.

Matt (Washington, DC)

If Paul Williams gets that Nov 29 HBO date, is the plan still to have Cris Arreola as the co-feature? Any idea on who Arreola would fight if so?

Dan Rafael

  (1:04 PM)

Yes. I have not heard any serious names brought up for Arreola, but we all know the suspects in the heavyweight division. Don't expect a big-time matchup.

Tom (Danbury,CT)

Speaking of lack of activity what is up with Devon Alexander?

Dan Rafael

  (1:05 PM)

Ask Don King.

g(atl)

Tito Trinidad (prime) or Margarito at 147?

Dan Rafael

  (1:05 PM)

Trinidad.

GM (Milwaukee, WI)

Hey Dan, Who should Margarito fight next: Williams or Clottey?

Dan Rafael

  (1:08 PM)

Obviously, I would prefer to see a Williams rematch first, but if it's Clottey next there is nothing wrong with that either.

Matt (Washington, DC)

I'm a bit dismayed by how you phrased the answer to the Wlad question, "probably Povetkin, who is a mandatory and the mandatory is due." Why wouldn't Povetkin be next and what could be holding a deal up? I'd be bummed if we don't get to see Wlad again in 2008.

Dan Rafael

  (1:09 PM)

There are issues over German TV contracts and such. It could wind up at a purse bid. Wlad could ask the IBF for an exception. There are various things that need to play out before the fight is on.

mike (phiila, pa)

give me your honest opinion of julio chezar chavez jr.

Dan Rafael

  (1:09 PM)

How about I lie to you and tell you think he's the next p4p king?

Jason (Orlando)

Dan- In their primes, who do you think would have won, RJJR or Joe C.? Also, where do you rank Roy all time p4p?

Dan Rafael

  (1:09 PM)

In their primes, Roy definitely wins.

Billy (Patchogue, NY)

Buy/sell: DLH/Pacquiao does more than 2 million buys.

Dan Rafael

  (1:09 PM)

Sell.

Jon (DC)

Dan, he used to be one of the best, but why does anyone sign with Don King anymore? Don't fighters see that all his fighters are inactive?

Dan Rafael

  (1:10 PM)

Well it's not like DK has signed too many guys lately. Don is basically out of promoting boxing at this point. If I am not mistaken, he has promoted ONE card on his own this year, Jones-Trinidad. The rest of the shows are where he provides the opponent.

Tom (Danbury,CT)

Where in Vegas is the Casa/Marquez PPV being held?

Dan Rafael

  (1:12 PM)

MGM Grand.

george (ohio)

was there one fight that you would of loved to see happen that never materilaized?

Dan Rafael

  (1:13 PM)

Lewis-Bowe.

JT (Toronto)

Is Hatton v. Malignaggi PPV?

Dan Rafael

  (1:13 PM)

No, regular HBO. Nov. 22.

Habs (Phoenix, AZ)

What do you see O'Neil Bell doing at heavy weight? IS this a good move for him? Ideal Match-up?

Dan Rafael

  (1:14 PM)

I don't give Bell much of a shot to do anything with a good heavyweight.

jo (texas)

will mayweather come back and if so will he be the same

Dan Rafael

  (1:14 PM)

You're banned. I said this was a M********* J*.-free chat.

Paulie Malignaggi

How should I do my hair for the Hatton fight?

Dan Rafael

  (1:15 PM)

Very short.

Kyle (Indianapolis)

Over - Under U.S.A. boxing Olympic medals 3.5

Dan Rafael

  (1:15 PM)

Under.

Banishment

Jo from Texas, come on down!

Dan Rafael

  (1:17 PM)

We have some minor breaking news.

Dan Rafael

  (1:17 PM)

On Aug. 30 in Cinci, Lamon Brewster is returning to fight against TBA. Scheduled 12-rounder.

Mike (Fairfax, VA)

This marks the 20 year anniversary of Roy Jones being robbed of the Gold in Seoul...Are the judges better now?

Dan Rafael

  (1:18 PM)

Let's hope so.

Newt (Jacksonville)

TBA def. Brewster, TKO 7

John (Grand Rapids, Mi)

I've got $50 on TBA

Banishment

pass the ketchup, jo is pretty bland

Joe (NYC)

Buy or Sell: Under 175,000 buys for Casamayor-JMM. (Hopefully, if that low bar is not reached, will promoters think twice in the future about putting mediocre cards on PPV?)

Dan Rafael

  (1:19 PM)

Under.

corey from(westwick)

Will be watching the Calderon vs Cazares 2 just wish i could the first one they should put it on verus

Dan Rafael

  (1:19 PM)

I will be watching also. Aug. 30 on PPV. First fight was a pretty interesting match.

Ryan (Fairport, NY)

Who would have thought that Lamon Brewster would fight again before Winky Wright.

Dan Rafael

  (1:20 PM)

LOL! Never thought of it like that but you're right.

Dennis (Miami, Fl)

cotto-margarito, fight of the year??

Dan Rafael

  (1:20 PM)

Not.

Mike (Fairfax, VA)

Does ANYONE check the schedule? I mean Dan maintains and updates it regularly for a reason...

Dan Rafael

  (1:21 PM)

Thank you.

Jon (DC)

Dan, the news of Brewster returning is so minor it was on the Robin phone.

Dan Rafael

  (1:21 PM)

Robin email.

Dave, NJ

King also promoted Spinks-Phillips, which nobody bought and he stuck it on his website.

Dan Rafael

  (1:21 PM)

You are right -- that's two solo shows this year.

Habs (Phoenix, AZ)

King Freak:Is team Manny worried about Oscar making weight, and what is likely to happen if he doesnt. I would hate to see the fight called off, as much as Manny would hate acctepting the fight with Oscar at a fight night weight of 160!

Dan Rafael

  (1:23 PM)

There have been discussions about weight penalties. That said, as best as I recall, Oscar has never failed to make weight. I think that a penalty clause can certainly be worked out.

Dominic (San Francisco)

Is it OK to talk about Roger Mayweather?

Dan Rafael

  (1:23 PM)

Yes. Roger is a Freak icon.

yorkis (philly)

Brewster vs Zab in a "how many fingers?" contest - who wins?

Dan Rafael

  (1:23 PM)

Close call.

Winky (St.Pete, FL)

Who would've thought that Azumah Nelson and Jeff Fenech would fight again before me too?

JKGaucho (DC)

Dennis, there was a little fight called Vazquez-Marquez III.

Dan Rafael

  (1:24 PM)

Exactly.

Matt H (phx,az)

There's only one ____________!

Dan Rafael

  (1:24 PM)

Ricky Hatton?

Aaron (Fort Lauderdale, FL)

Your thoughts on a Collazo-Cintron fight? Waste of time or interesting match-up?

shelly (akron)

if the fight were today who would pick as the winner between ricky hatton and dey la hoya?

Dan Rafael

  (1:25 PM)

De La Hoya.

JKGaucho (DC)

Dan, after two eye injuries, why is Brewster getting licensed? Is that why the fight is in Ohio, a jurisdiction that doesn't usually have major cards?

Dan Rafael

  (1:26 PM)

I don't know. I would hope he has to pass a basic eye exam.

CTB (Conn)

Were you rooting for a Zuri Lawrence KO when he buzzed Sosnowski in the 8th round on WNF? He was close if he pressed it he might've gotten that elusive 1st KO on his record at age 38.

Dan Rafael

  (1:27 PM)

I think they should just line Zuri up to fight an absolute stiff so he can score a monster knockout! Amazing that he has as many fights as he does without a single knockout.

Doug (FLA)

What's the fight scene in Japan like? Seems like the have good crowds and good fighters

Dan Rafael

  (1:29 PM)

They do have a lot of good fighters and lots of great fans. Most of their fighters are in the smaller weight divisions and the fights are often more technical. But guys like Hozumi Hasegawa, Takefumi Sakata, Yutaka Niida and others are very good fighters. I am fortunate to have been trading regularly for DVDs of all of the notable fights from Japan for years, so I know that there are lots of good champions there.

Frank(Phx)

Hahaha I love seeing people get banned!

Dan Rafael

  (1:30 PM)

Good, so you won't mind this: You're freakin' banned too. Just because.

rob (jersey)

Dannah Montana: who are the potentials for Juan Manuel Lopez on OCt 18th? Thanks

Dan Rafael

  (1:30 PM)

Not really sure. I am told that he may end up on his own card in Puerto Rico on Oct. 4.

Chris (Las Vegas, NV)

Any of those Japanese fights have English commentary?

Dan Rafael

  (1:31 PM)

Ummm, no. They are on Japanese TV.

Ian (Phoenix, AZ)

Dan, you mentioned in your blog about the PPV buys for the Cotto/Margarito fight that each man will get more money because it went over a certain number of buys. How much does a fighter typically get extra per buy?

Dan Rafael

  (1:32 PM)

It could be anywhere from a couple of bucks per buy over a certain number of buys up to like $7 or $8 a buy. It all depends on the deal you negotiate with your promoter.

Mike (San Diego, CA)

Dan, The Cotto-Margarito fight was more than just a boxing match. It lived up to its name as The Battle. It showcased one man's will to win as we watched another man have his will slowly broken down in front of our eyes. While the Olympics is going to give us sob-story after sob-story about the human spirit, it is too bad the millions watching the Olympics will not hear about the great battle of human will that went on just two weeks prior

Rich (Philly)

Hey Dan, I remember when I tried getting tickets for DLH-**********, that is was nearly impossible without going through places like Stubhub, etc. Do you think it will be as equally impossible for DLH-Pacquiao???

Dan Rafael

  (1:33 PM)

I have no idea. What am I? A ticket broker?

edubb (Sactown)

Dan, on a scale of 1 to 10, how likely do you think Manny and Oscar reach an agreement to fight?

Dan Rafael

  (1:33 PM)

7.5.

marbleheadmaui

Ricardo Lopez vs. Chiquita Gonzales at 108?

Dan Rafael

  (1:34 PM)

Lopez. He might beat anyone ever at 105 or 108.

David (houston)

how much does a guy like Jhonny Gonzales, who makes his life these days heading up telefutura cards, get paid per bout?

Dan Rafael

  (1:35 PM)

Probably in the $20,000 range.

Joe: San Francisco, CA

Come on, these are softball Hatton questions. Time for a toughie. WHERE DOES RICKY WALK?!?!?!

Dan Rafael

  (1:35 PM)

A Hatton Wonderland?

Derrik (MO)

What was your reaction when George Foreman won the belt again at 45?

Dan Rafael

  (1:37 PM)

I will never forget it. I was still living in my mother's house and when he knocked Moorer out, I went crazy, started shouting in excitement. Of course, my mother and sister had already gone to bed and I woke everyone up. Mom was not too happy with me that night.

Henry (Sitka)

If Paqiuao decides to stand trade with Oscar do you think Oscar has enough pop to knock out the pac man?

Dan Rafael

  (1:37 PM)

In the immortalt words of our broadcast hero: Absolutely.

Jim Lampley

IT HAPPENED!!!! IT HAPPENED!!!!

Dan Rafael

  (1:38 PM)

One of the great calls ever.

Habs (Phoenix, AZ)

Speaking of Foreman, I have always wondered, Young George VS Prime Tyson, Who Wins????

Dan Rafael

  (1:39 PM)

George would smash Tyson. That is one of the reasons the fight never happened.

John (Mass)

Its obvious Margarito was on roids his last fight. He should be banned for life

Dan Rafael

  (1:39 PM)

Hater. By the way -- his steroid test came back clean (as did Cotto's).

Alan (Las Vegas, NV)

Dan, I just moved to Las Vegas last saturday, and the first day I was there I was able to get a free ticket to the Judah fight, and meet Iron Mike who was at the fight. Isn't that a great first day?

Dan Rafael

  (1:40 PM)

Excellent. It's all downhill from there brother.

Chris (Kalamazoo, MI)

It's obvious John from Mass. was on acid his last post. He should be banned for life.

Banishment

Its obvious John from Mass is on stupid pills, he should feed me for life

Rich

But what exactly is Hatton doing while he's walking along? Hmmmm????

Dan Rafael

  (1:41 PM)

Singing a song?

Dan Rafael

  (1:42 PM)

OK, Freaks, thanks for the chat today. Hope you all enjoy the weekend even though there isn't much boxing. Peace.