ESPN

Dan Rafael

  (12:02 PM)

Greetings Fight Freaks! There's a new giant notebook posted and two new blogs this week, so be sure to check 'em out. It's a slow week in the pro game, but the Olympics are just winding down, so there's still plenty to discuss. Let's get right to it.

Matt (portland, OR)

Dan am I a bad person if I'm somewhat interested in watching Morales v Barrera IV? Ugggh I feel sick just typing that.

Dan Rafael

  (12:03 PM)

No. I can understand why some folks would have an interest. Their trilogy is one of the great ones in boxing history. Personally, however, I don't have much interest in seeing a fourth fight.

josephrodrigue5163

Sad Friday Dan, I'm completely disappointed in the performance of this year's underacheiving boxing team. Which if any of these young men can expect some sort of success in the pro ranks?

Dan Rafael

  (12:04 PM)

It's been the worst team performance in U.S. Olympic boxing history, bar none. Huge disappointment. It started bad when Russell was DQ'd for not making weight, got worse with Warren's miserable loss and then Andrade being robbed. In the pros, I think the best prospect by far is Andrade. But I think Wilder, given time, and Russell and Raynell Williams all can be solid pros.

chris (toronto)

dan, any word on arce's fight in mexico city?

Dan Rafael

  (12:05 PM)

Rafael Concepcion for the WBA's interim 115 title.

Jay (Philly)

Any truth to the rumor that you have been selected as Obama's running mate?

Dan Rafael

  (12:05 PM)

There is no truth to that rumor.

Frank(Phx)

King Dan, nice to see you chatting it up! Have you made a decision on who you think would win, JMM or Casamayor?

Dan Rafael

  (12:05 PM)

Not yet. I go back and forth. I will be at that fight and will make my official pick the day before the fight.

Laura ( Rogers, Ar )

Who career will it hurt more for the loser of the Pac-man and Oscar fight? Will Oscar be more dangeruos at 147?

Dan Rafael

  (12:06 PM)

Clearly, if Oscar loses it's more damaging to his legacy and repuation. If Pacman loses, he lost to a bigger guy and he can go back to 135 and make all sorts of great fights or to 140 and maybe fight Hatton.

Tom (Danbury,CT)

Teddy Atlas mentioned during the Olympics that fighters were getting fight plans from their coaches back home instead of listening to the coaches in Bejing. How big of a factor do you think this is?

Dan Rafael

  (12:07 PM)

It's a factor from the standpoint that everyone is not on the same page, a definite problem. Things have been a mess internally with Team USA and you can't help but believe some of that doesn't follow them into the ring.

Mark

Other than boxing (which might not even be yours due to the ridiclous scoring) what has been your favorite sport to watch in the Olympics. I have to go with women's gymnastics. Man is Alicia Sacramone hot!

Dan Rafael

  (12:08 PM)

I've been watching a lot of the men's basketball -- I have the USA-Argentina game on in my office as we speak. I also watched a lot of the swimming, some baseball and some gymnastics.

Eric (Columbus, OH)

Say we put the over-under on Kirkland-Cortes at two minutes of the first round...which way would you go, Dan?

Dan Rafael

  (12:09 PM)

Over.

Frank(Phx)

Dan how close is DLH vs Pac Man to being a done deal? Hoping there's no more set backs. BTW I love your piece on the blog about all the haters against this fight. We all know damn well they'll be watching this fight, it'll be the biggest event of the year!

Dan Rafael

  (12:10 PM)

The fight, from what I understand, is inching closer and closer to being done. There has apparently been some movement on the percentages, so I expect it to get done. And all the haters can keep on hating. Come Dec. 6 they won't be able to help themselves and will buy the fight.

Chris (Los Angeles CA)

D$ - What are Larry Merchant's thoughts on this whole DLH-Pacquiao debacle concidering it was his crazy idea in the first place? He's probably getting a big kick out of it.

Dan Rafael

  (12:10 PM)

Larry has wanted to see this fight since he first mentioned it to me back in October. I am sure he will be pumped about it once it's signed.

Erik (Atlanta, Ga.)

So we've got biting and bad judging Olympic boxing all we need now is a sanctioning fees and its just like the pros.

Dan Rafael

  (12:10 PM)

Bravo!

Mike (San Diego)

Dan, I'm one of those so called haters that isn't thrilled about DLH\Pac-Man but of course will be watching. My question is, What type of reaction would the media have if PBF chose to fight Pacquiao, I have a feeling he would get destroyed for taking the fight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:12 PM)

They might but the reason would be because F**** is in his prime and has other serious challenges to handle. Oscar has already accomplished everything and now it's about making the biggest event. Oscar, overall in his career, took on more big challenges than F**** ever has, so Oscar gets a little bit of a pass than F**** does. Had F**** cleaned out his divisions or fought EVERYONE and wanted a Pacquiao fight in his final fight, that would be fine.

Gerardo (Tempe, AZ)

Can you give us updates on the US Argentina game?

Dan Rafael

  (12:13 PM)

The US won.

Gerardo, Chicago, IL

Can you give us a feel for Sergio Martinez? Who is this guy? Have you seen him fight? There is a lot of talk about opponents for this guy.

Dan Rafael

  (12:15 PM)

Martinez is a very solid guy with a great record and some good experience. I have seen some of his fights. I was ringside for his last bout. He also scored a solid win over Saul Roman on Telefutura last year. I also have a tape of his one loss, a TKO to Margarito at welterweight on the Barrera-Morales 1 card. He's a legit top 10 contender in the 154-pound division and has been in the news a lot because he's mandatory for the Mora, but is stepping aside to allow the Forrest rematch and will instead fight Alex Bunema for the interim belt. And the fight will be on HBO on Oct. 4.

Frank(Phx)

I see that Ivan Calderon is an underdog for next weeks rematch against Cazares. Do you think he will win the rematch again?

Dan Rafael

  (12:15 PM)

Yes.

Tommy(Detroit)

Dan, Please help me understand why the haters don't want this fight? I just don't see anything else out there that is a makable that would be a mega-event. What is the hate for?

Dan Rafael

  (12:16 PM)

Because for some reason folks love to hate on Oscar. Why? I have no idea. He fought everyone. So he doesn't want to fight Margarito? Big deal. Margarito is coming off a great win, but Pacquiao is a much bigger star even if he's smaller. In the grand sceme of things put it like this -- an Oscar-Pacquiao fight will be on SportsCenter. An Oscar-Margarito fight wouldn't have nearly the mainstream coverage.

Carlos (Funky Town, TX) NTX BULLDOGS

Dan, you have to shake the haters off!! There are so many idiots that comment on your story that its even hard to read there comments. Great job this week!!! The loyal freaks appreacite your work.

Dan Rafael

  (12:16 PM)

Thank you, non-hater.

Jorge (East Los Angeles)

Dan, What are your thoughts of Main Events turning down the fight with Martinez because they couldn't get a guarantted fight from the winner of Forrest\Mora?

Dan Rafael

  (12:17 PM)

I think Main Events and Julio's team made, to be blunt, a stupid, stupid decision.

Matt (NC)

I read your schedule all the time and I see that there are some fights coming up on gofightlive.tv..Is that a new broadcaster in boxing?

Dan Rafael

  (12:18 PM)

It's a Web site that streams a lot of untelevised cards for a small fee (I think like $1.99). Worth checking out.

Erik (Atlanta, Ga.)

Has there been any change in the ruling for what happen to Thompson last Friday? I felt sick to my stomach watching that.

Dan Rafael

  (12:18 PM)

Not yet, but the Thompson people are appealing to the D.C. commission.

Dan (Nutley, NJ)

I'm a hater of Pac/DLH, but of course I'll buy it, because I love boxing. One thing has nothing to do with the other. I hate it because I think Pacquiao wins easily, and I'd rather see on of the great matchups to be made at lightweight.

Dan Rafael

  (12:19 PM)

That's hilarious. Most of the haters hate because they think Oscar smokes the little guy. I don't agree on that at all. But I have yet to hear from someone who hates because they think Pacquiao will win easily. Just proves boxing fans are never satisfied with anything.

Rick, Marina, Ca

Any opponent for Arreola yet ?

Dan Rafael

  (12:20 PM)

Working on it. Rahman camp turned it down, they couldn't agree on money.

Nate (St. Paul)

Dan I'm a little confused. How many Ricky Hatton's are there?

Dan Rafael

  (12:21 PM)

I've heard that there is just one Ricky Hatton. I could be wrong.

JD, Saratoga NY

Oscar may not want to fight the best 147 out there (Margarito but Guess what? He isn't near the top of the 147s either. DLH/Pacman would be MUCH more competitive than Oscar/Margarito

Dan Rafael

  (12:21 PM)

I agree.

JKGaucho (DC)

Dan what is the approximate figure being offered to Collazo? Whatever it is he should take it because it isn't like he has anything else going on.

Dan Rafael

  (12:23 PM)

I don't think they have made a specific dollar offer, but you have to think that if Judah fought Clottey for $350,000 that would be the absolute ceiling for Collazo, but probably a little less. However, I have heard that the Collazo camp is asking for about $500,000, which is pure insanity and means the fight simply won't happen because the money just isn't there.

John (Tampa, FL)

I don't see why DLH doesn't just wait until he can find a great fight to end his career with, especially if he can't work something out with Pacquiao. I would like to see his swansong be against Cotto. I think after the loss to Margarito, DLH would be a great opponent for him. This would certainly put Cotto back on the map.

Dan Rafael

  (12:23 PM)

He has one -- Pacquiao, which is a much bigger fight than Cotto now that Cotto was knocked out in his last fight.

Christian, Miami

What was behind Green turning down Martinez? Did they give a reason or simply state he wasnt ready?

Dan Rafael

  (12:25 PM)

Green turned it down because he and his father are clueless about the reality of the boxing market. They think they are worth a lot more than they are. Frankly, they should have jumped at the offer, which was about $125,000 or $150,000. Greene is a young fighter coming off a terrible performance, there are no other TV dates left this year and his promoter still got him a shot at a belt for six figures in an HBO main event. Even if he fought Martinez and lost, it wouldn't be the end of the world for a guy who is only like 22. Their decision to reject that fight was lunacy.

Marc (Philly)

Awsome picture of ring legend and IBF Cruiserweight Champion of the world Steve 'USS' Cunningham and Marvin Hagler in recent issue of Ring Mag., don't you agree?

Dan Rafael

  (12:27 PM)

Back away from the computer and get the help you need.

Michael (Long Beach, CA)

I love the Oscar/Manny fight. Manny has fast hands, power, but Oscar takes a great shot. Could turn out to be can Oscar get to Manny to take him out in the later rounds. Great intrigue.

Dan Rafael

  (12:27 PM)

Another non-hater.

Jorge (East Los Angeles)

Dan, Curious on your early prediction for Forrest\Mora 2? Do you think it will be much like the first one or do you think Vernon just had an "off" night?

Dan Rafael

  (12:28 PM)

I think it's a tossup fight. I believe Vernon will be better than the first fight and more prepared, but I believe Mora is hungry to prove the first fight was not a fluke and will more prepared also. I think it will be a batter fight than the first one, but how could it be worse?

Tom (Danbury,CT)

So was Hell in the Cell the Match of the Year?

Dan Rafael

  (12:28 PM)

It was awesome, but I still think the Edge-Undertaker table, ladder, chair match from One Night Stand was better.

josephrodrigue5163

Carlos DANtana, when you say a fighter's camp turns something down, are you refering to the fighter, his manager, or both?

Dan Rafael

  (12:29 PM)

Usually the manager, but sometimes both.

OC (Denver, CO)

Dan, Any word on who my boy Mike Alvarado is fighting on Oct. 3rd?

Dan Rafael

  (12:32 PM)

TBA.

Mike (Fairfax, VA)

Hey Dan, great chatting with you at the fight last Friday...Hope you didn't get as lost as I did in D.C...Took me about an hour and a half to get home...

Dan Rafael

  (12:32 PM)

I have GPS. It's a lifesaver!

Erik (Huntsville,AL)

Dan, if Shane Mosley beats Mayorga in a month,what realistic chance does he have landing a title fight at 147 or 154?

Dan Rafael

  (12:34 PM)

In the immortal words of our broadcast hero: Definitely.

Joe, INdiana

Have you ever thought about starting a cult? If you opened a compound somewhere and invited many of us freaks to be your blind, loyal, crazy followers, I'm sure there are at least 10 of us that would go. The peace of Dan be with you all!

Dan Rafael

  (12:35 PM)

Interesting idea.

Chris (Los Angeles CA)

D$ - Buy or sell. Hatton and Khan will face off in Manchester before the end of 2009?

Dan Rafael

  (12:36 PM)

Sell all day long.

Rick, Marina, Ca

Whats wrong with Yory Boy Campas, aint he like 70 years old ?

Dan Rafael

  (12:36 PM)

He's actually only 37 but way past his prime. That's why he's being matched with Julio Garcia on the Sept. 13 PPV.

Michael (Long Beach, CA)

Just exactly what is a "Swamp Donkey"?

Dan Rafael

  (12:36 PM)

Adam Richards.

Dan NY NY

Dan - What do you think about Cotto taking on Paul Williams next? If he beats the guy who beat Margarito, makes the rematch all the more exciting.

Dan Rafael

  (12:37 PM)

If Arum wouldn't/couldn't make a deal for a Margarito-Williams rematch or Pavlik-Williams because of the issues between him and Haymon, what makes you think they'll make one for Cotto?

Sal (Chicago)

Dan can you tell Oscar-haters that he already fought Antonio Margarito, back in 1997 except his name was Miguel Angel Gonzalez and he was 41-0... and Oscar fought the typical Mexican warrior with granite chin and outboxed him in a tough 12-round decision

Allen Boston

Dan: Any news on Haye's opponent. Is Liakovich a possibility?

Dan Rafael

  (12:38 PM)

There are talks going on with the Rahman camp.

Brent(cleveland)

Dano, So Wilder landed 1 punch the whole fight. come on judges. pretty much ruined the whole event for me

Dan Rafael

  (12:39 PM)

The scoring is a joke, but we know that.

Ronak (NY)

Have you ever been in favor of a limited Instant Replay system in boxing?

Dan Rafael

  (12:39 PM)

Yes, I am strongly in favor of it in a limited way.

Dale (carson city, ca)

The waiting for Teddy to accidently hit Bobby P during "Teddy's Corner". Then saying it would not score for a punch could be one of the wittiest things I have read that you wrote. Great Stuff!!

Dan Rafael

  (12:39 PM)

Thank you, but so true about him not getting a point!

Justin

Dan, what was with the tension between you and Shannon Briggs last week? Is there something specific he holds against you, or just blatantly honest?

Dan Rafael

  (12:42 PM)

No tension at all. Shannon and I are cool. But he gives me the business because I have not always been so kind to him in my writing and he mentioned that when I was on FNF with him last week. To Shannon's credit, he's a professional about it and I respect and like him personally. Shannon has always been a good guy to deal with from my point of view of a reporter. He doesn't take things that are written about him too seriously. When he gives me the business, I tell him that I can dish it out, but I can also take it. It's all in fun.

Ronak (NY)

Excluding the US, who is the best boxer that can turn into a pro from the olympics?

Dan Rafael

  (12:43 PM)

I have a man crush on Lomachenko, the featherweight from the Ukraine, who is into the final and should win the gold. He's sensational. He very well could be the Eastern European Love Child.

corey from(westwick)

Hey i'm going to the Hopkins vs Pavlik fight any word who's on the undercard

Dan Rafael

  (12:43 PM)

Looks like Luevano in a defense, possible with Billy Dib. Also, likely fight between Rubio and Ornelas. One other TV fight to also be added.

Justin

...and truthfully, that's exactly what I gathered, so you guys were right on. I was just curious.

Ronak (NY)

I got no problem with DHL fighting Pacquiao but i do have a problem on why he wont fight Margarito. He says because hes a mexican but isnt sergio mora a mexican. Please explain Dan?

Dan Rafael

  (12:44 PM)

Well Sergio is Mexican-American. I don't quite get all that either. You either fight or don't fight, shouldn't have anything to do with where you're from.

Allen Boston

Dan : I got tickets for the Calzaghe/Jones fight at the garden. Are you planning to attend? Can I expect the same atmosphere for this fight as for the Cotto/Judah fight? Are you favoring Calzaghe?

Dan Rafael

  (12:45 PM)

I will be there. Should be an awesome atmosphere, but it can't possibly match nights like Cotto-Judah or Trinidad-Joppy.

todd (sf, calif)

thanks a lot for spoiling the US basketball game for all of us who tivo'd the game while we're at work.

Dan Rafael

  (12:46 PM)

Hey, it was on live. You think you can go through life without hearing the news? You should take your phone off the hook, shut off your computer and go into an empty room then instead of being on ESPN.com.

Sal (Chicago)

What are your thoughts on Morales comments? Do you think he could beat JMM or Casamayor?

Dan Rafael

  (12:46 PM)

I think Morales would get spanked at this point by both guys.

JD, Saratoga NY

Interesting Sal. Dan, would you say Miguel Angel Gonzalez is of the class of Margarito?

Dan Rafael

  (12:47 PM)

When he was in his prime, Gonzalez was a bad, bad man and being compared to all-time Mexican greats.

Alex(Bristol,CT)

Will Andrade and Wilder turn pro immediately now?

Dan Rafael

  (12:47 PM)

I believe both will return from Beijing and field offers and yes, turn pro either late this year or early next year.

Chris (Middletown, CT)

Dan, what do you think about Shannon Briggs' work as an analyst. In the couple of times that I've seen him I thought that he was substantially better than the Grill Spokesman/RJJ/Definitely crowd that we have usually been subjected to

Dan Rafael

  (12:48 PM)

What I like about Shannon's analysis is that he's not afraid to say what he thinks.

Jason (Seattle)

Todd - if you are on the internet you can't bitch about having taped results spoiled! No excuses - you should have read the chat transcript instead.

todd (sf, calif)

no dan, it's quite possible to go through the day not getting hit with the basketball score...which is what i was hoping by entering a 'boxing' chat.

Dan Rafael

  (12:49 PM)

Pooooor baby.

Juan, Los Angeles

Dan da ManI am getting tired of people calling PACMAN vs DLH a farce becuase of the weight- school the freaks- besides Jones Jr. vs Ruiz and Sugar Ray vs Maxim, can you give us a few other classic examples of the smaller guy coming up for big fights

Dan Rafael

  (12:50 PM)

There are a ton. I would suggest you go back and read the original blog I wrote about the fight from Larry Merchant's comments. It was from October 2007 and is in the archive. There are a ton of examples in there.

Banishment

I can smell Todd from SF....he's close by....can't quite taste him yet.

Adam (Woodland Hills, CA)

Dan - Great job on breaking the news about Showtime televising the Bute-Andrade fight last week. Who do you like it and will the winner get Kessler in the ring?

Dan Rafael

  (12:51 PM)

I love that Showtime is doing the fight and give them big props for getting it. It's a legitimate match but I like Bute to win a decision. He's at home, where he has crazy support, he's faster and a better boxer. But Andrade is tough as nails and might make it fun for a little while. Kessler fights stoogest in Europe right now, so I have no expectations of that fight happening.

Vasyl Lomachenko (now in Beijing)

AHHHHHHHHH - -íîâûé ðåáåíîê ëþáâè - -thanks dad (translates to the New Love Child)

Dan Rafael

  (12:53 PM)

Love it.

JD, Saratoga NY

Sorry Todd but I agree, you logged onto ESPN.COM because you DIDN'T want to know the RESULT of the BIGGEST GAME OF THE DAY?

Dave, NJ

Todd from SF, Spain beat Lithuania 91-86.

Dr. Banishment 's assistant

Mr. Todd, the doctor will see you now.

Holmes Woodbridge, VA

Dan is there any truth to the rumor about PBF unretiring for a 50 million dollar payday?

Dan Rafael

  (12:54 PM)

Is there any truth that you are actually brain dead?

Frank(Phx)

Dan, you had mentioned in your blog that you think Jones/Calzaghe can do 750,000 ppv buys. I know Jones is the main attraction but his fight with Trinidad, who has a bigger following of fans than Calzaghe I think, did just over 500,000 buys. I just don't see this fight surpassing that.

Dan Rafael

  (12:55 PM)

You forgot about the x-factor -- four episodes of 24/7 on HBO every Sunday leading up to the fight. That is HUGE.

Joe (NYC)

To pilfer a concept from Bill Maher; "New Rule": Bob Arum can't ever publicly talk about a big idea (fights in baseball stadiums, on network tv, etc.) without following through. Stop teasing us Bob.

Dumb Todd from Dumb San Francisco

Dan, thanks for spoiling the news about Showtime televisting Bute-Andrade. I was going to wait until the day of the fight and turn on Showtime to find out if they were televising it.

Michael (Long Beach, CA)

Surprising that a whiner like Todd even pays attention to boxing.

Dan Rafael

  (12:56 PM)

Why? There are a lot of whiners who pay attention to boxing. Where do you think all the haters come from?

Darth Vader

Hey Todd from SF - I'M LUKE'S FATHER!

Chris (Los Angeles CA)

D$ - If Todd doesn't want to know who Obama is picking as his running mate he should stay away from chat rooms on CNN this weekend.

Allen Boston

Dan: Any news on the undercard for Calzaghe/Jones? Also, is there a rule that mandates a certain number of rounds be scheduled for a fight card?

Dan Rafael

  (12:57 PM)

Salita will be on the undercard, maybe against Kotelnik. In most states, there is a minimum number of rounds that much be scheduled, yes.

Andy (Australia)

Hi Dan, so much has been said and written about the way how scoring system has screwed the Olympics boxing matches but I have never heard any suggestion on how that can be fixed, what are the things that can be done in order to make it a more "fair" scoring system?

Dan Rafael

  (12:57 PM)

Let the judges judge fights like judges are supposed to judge, not turn it into a video game. If they insist on keeping the computer crap, at least loosen the scoring zone.

Tony(Tampa)

Todd,This just in: Usain Bolt runs kinda fast.

JKGaucho (DC)

Dan, I thought Japan had a legit boxing industry but after reading that Oscar Larios has been sanctioned to fight there I have to question it.

Dan Rafael

  (12:59 PM)

He's fighting a Japanese fighter who they figures will beat Larios and win the title.

Cory (Indy)

Quick off topic question Dan. How do you think David Reid's career would have turned out if he didn't fight Tito so soon in his career?

Dan Rafael

  (12:59 PM)

What did Reid in more than Tito was his bad eye.

corey from(westwick)

Dan it's not the fact I don't want to see Oscar vs Manny but the split should be 60-40 and I feel as though it"s a must win for Manny cause if he loses what divison will he go back to cause let's face it Dan if he loses it ain't gonna be by a decision he's gonna be knocked out

Dan Rafael

  (12:59 PM)

Don't count other people's money.

Sam (Houston)

Could you see Roy vs Oscar if they both win there next fights in dramatic fashion?

Dan Rafael

  (1:00 PM)

No way.

Dan Rafael

  (1:00 PM)

If Oscar and Jones ever fight, I will shave my beard on national TV (if ESPN allows me the air time).

Carlos (Funky Town, TX)

People hate on Oscar because of the amount of money he makes. The same thing with Alex Rodriguez they love his game but everytime he makes a mistake or is an a slump they say he is a bum because he makes 25 million a season. Oscar should be 50-0 with 50 knockouts and Alex should bat 500, 50 homeruns, 200 RBI's for people not to hate on them.

Dan Rafael

  (1:01 PM)

It is unfair.

Dan's Beard

I am going nowhere

David Cook (Kansas City)

Hey Todd, did you hear that I won American Idol this year?

Sean Richmond VA

For once I'm on Oscar's Side. If F**** can take 70/30 then why not Pacman???

Dennis (Miami, Fl)

hey dan, do you have any idea where the taylor/lacy fight is going to be?

Dan Rafael

  (1:02 PM)

Right now it looks like either Biloxi or Indianapolis, but that could, of course, change.

Hater Nation

If Oscar were 50-0 with 50 KO's, we'd still hate on him for not knocking everyone out in the 1st round.

Marc (Malden, MA)

Considering Pacman started his career at 106 and is now at 135, is there any worry about him having enough power for Oscar, who is moving down in weight?

Dan Rafael

  (1:02 PM)

Was there concern for Oscar, who fought at 130 and moved all the way up to 160 to fight Hopkins for the undisputed middleweight title?

JD, Saratoga NY

Dan, we all have a lot of fun at Winky's expense but realistically, other than a soft touch on Friday Night Fights or an undercard of a PPV for short money, what the hell is out there for him right now?

Dan Rafael

  (1:04 PM)

He could pursue all sorts of fights -- Kessler, Lacy-Taylor winner, take short money to get back in action on a ppv undercard against whoever, look at any of the 154 top guys.

Ryan (Worcester, MA)

Dan, I'm a huge Oscar hater, but I'm super f'in excited to see a fight between him and Pacman. I don't get the hate at all for the fight.

Dan Rafael

  (1:04 PM)

Same here. Funny thing is, today's chat queue is loaded with comments and questions about the fight and I can't really find too many Freaks who are negative on the fight today.

Geraldo (Dale City,VA)

D$- How frustrating is it to deal with all these people that believe their opinions equal facts?It has been really getting onmy nerves lately! No one is saying this is going to be DLH best fight but it will be very entertaining.

Dan Rafael

  (1:05 PM)

Exactly.

Erik (Atlanta, Ga.)

Todd from SF hate to spoil it for you but there's only one Ricky Hatton!

jcs (winnipeg)

The biggest reason I want the dlh/pacman fight to happen is so that Pacman can move on from there to fight against Hatton. Hatton isn't my favorite, but I think that is a more exciting fight, albeit not a bigger event.

Daniel (Wilmington, Ca)

Dan The Man, Even though it is so far away and hasn't even been signed, if DeLaHoya - Pacquiao is made do you expect a garbage undercard like we all got for DeLaHoya - Mayweather?

Dan Rafael

  (1:06 PM)

I would sure hope not, but I would have very low expectations.

JQ (Roswell, NM)

Danry the 8th, first, this isn't a hater comment, but I have slight doubts on Calzaghe's HOF credibility if he retires. To be honest I never heard of him until Jeff Lacy fight, and before that fought basically all UKers, and since two "Contenders", eeked by an old man, and soon a way past his prime 37 RJJ. Comments?

Dan Rafael

  (1:07 PM)

Just because YOU never heard of him is irrelevent. Dude has been a champion for 11 years in two weight classes and is undefeated and has fought a couple of top notch opponent and a whole slew of good opponents and dominated most of his fights. Not only is he an automatic first ballot HOFer, he is the most accomplished super middle ever.

Stephen (St. Louis)

Dan, I really love the idea that you and Roach have for an Oscar/Pacquioa fight. The promotion alone would be insane, and they could so many people to watch that would never think about buying a boxing PPV because of that 10%.

Dan Rafael

  (1:08 PM)

I agree that it adds another dimension to the fight.

Pete (Montreal)

Hey Dan-o, whats up next for Molitor if he takes care of Labarda?

Dan Rafael

  (1:09 PM)

If he wins and Caballero wins his fight in September, they have an agreement to fight in November on ShoBox.

Brian (Artesia, CA)

Dan - I love boxing but now I know why I can't stand Olympic boxing? The inconsistent scoring criteria/penalties. Last night, I watched a heart-broken boxer (Bastine - France) completely devasted after a loss because the ref ended his Olympic aspirations with an unjust 2-point deduction with 10 seconds in the final round.

Dan Rafael

  (1:10 PM)

That was literally one of the worst calls I have seen in the whole tournament, especially considering the Thai defending champion at 141 held WAY WAY WAY more than the French dude in the previous fight and was not even warned.

Dan (Nutley, NJ)

As a boxing fan who doesn't want to see DLH/Pac, let me ask you this: What's the difference between F**** not cleaning out welter and opting to fight Oscar, and Manny doing the same thing with lightweight?

Dan Rafael

  (1:11 PM)

Nobody had an issue with Floyd fighting Oscar. It was that he didn't come close to cleaning out 140 or 147.

Dan Rafael

  (1:11 PM)

And, by the way, if Manny fights Oscar, it is a one shot deal. Afterward he would go down to 140 or back to 135 for other challenges, like a Hatton.

Ronak (NY)

Which fight do you want to see more, Pavlik v Abraham or Marquez v Pacquiao?

Dan Rafael

  (1:12 PM)

Since I have seen Marquez-Pacman twice already, even though they were great, I would prefer to see the fight I have never seen, which is Pavlik-Abraham.

Walter (Albuquerque, NM)

Want some haters. DHL on his worse day will KO Manny on his best day inside 3 rounds. It's a dumb fight that will only last longer than that if Oscar wants to coast and give fans their "Moneys worth". Manny is way to small for Oscar.

Dan Rafael

  (1:12 PM)

Your opinion, which is fine. But if they fight, I know you will be watching.

Lomachenko

Ahhhhhhhhhh, me

Briks, Philly

Oscar knew the easiest way to get people excited for the Pac-Man fight. He simply mentioned Mora as the alternative.

Dan NY NY

Were people so upset when Roy Jones went up to fight Ruiz? Or when Spinks fought Holmes? No. Who cares. This is awesome. A huge, exciting event.

Erik (Atlanta, Ga.)

I think what people are forgetting is that boxing used to do this all time where guys routinely when up a couple of weight classes to fight guys. ODH is his career has fought several HOFer's Tito, Shane, Sweet Pea, B-Hop, PBF, Chavez (I'm sure I'm forgetting some). Boxing came back because of Big Fights! ODH/Pacman is arguable the biggest fight that can be made and will bring major mainstream attention to a sport I love! I'm all for it.

Dan Rafael

  (1:15 PM)

You are 100 percent correct. Unfortunately, there are a lot of boxing fans who don't understand this or opt to ignore it.

slam (mia)

The freaks are now excited about DLH vs. Paquio because everyone was so disappointed about dlh vs. mora. Its called an excellent job at promoting the fight by GB promotions and Arum without spending any dollars.

Dan Rafael

  (1:15 PM)

Whatever works.

Joel Julio

Hi Dad. Should I be having a serious talk with my people?

Dan Rafael

  (1:17 PM)

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, the Love Child. I would like to send you to your room without dinner as well as your promoters for being so stupid to turn down the fight with Martinez on HBO for a fight that is not even set with Dzindziruk for which you will make about the same money without US TV in a tougher fight. Nice job. LC is grounded.

Shane (Dallas)

Erik in Atlanta is a very smart man! Amen on that comment!!

Richard (oxford, United Kingdom)

Dan, I know you scored the Calzaghe-Hopkins fight 114-113 for Hopkins. Having watched it again, which im sure you have, do u still truly beleive Hopkins won? Surely the fact that Joe threw, and indeed landed more punches clearly meant he won a close but clear decision, despite the first round knockdown.

Dan Rafael

  (1:17 PM)

Yes, I believe Hopkins won a close fight. Period.

Vasyl "The Homewrecker" Lomachenko

I'm coming for you Julio

Steven, California

Dan, is J.M. Marquez a little upset that his boss is taking the pacquiao fight, instead of him?

Dan Rafael

  (1:18 PM)

Pacquiao wasn't going to fight JMM again in the fall anyway.

Rich (Stamford CT)

Oscar haters should hope this fight happens. If he beats Manny, he retires and you can still rip him for fighting two smaller guys on his way out. If Manny beats him you can rip Oscar for getting beat by a smaller man.

Justin (Sactown,CA)

DTM, Kirkland vs the Love Child can you make this fight happen please!

Dan Rafael

  (1:19 PM)

Awesome fight.

Sean (NY, NY)

I would like to see someone name a fight that would do more PPV buys than Manny-Oscar. It is the biggest fight possible (of all the "active" boxers). Period.

Marc (Malden, MA)

Uh oh Dan, this man crush on Lomachenko is starting to take off, Joel Julio might get jealous.

Steve (Jacksonville FL)

Is there anything in the works for Kermit Cintron? Don't understand why he got released, Margarito knocks out any two welterweights in the world on the night of those fights.

Dan Rafael

  (1:23 PM)

Cintron signed with DiBella and will be on the Taylor-Lacy undercard on Nov. 15.

Tom (Danbury,CT)

Should I even bother asking what is up with Devon Alexander?

Dan Rafael

  (1:25 PM)

Why bother?

yorkis (philly)

Olympic boxing is so bad that I'm counting down the days til Valuev-Ruiz 2. What a crappy August :(

Linden (CA)

DTM: I might be in the minority, but I'm excited for the fight because I have never been a fan of DLH and I think the Pac monster is going to dominate him. If Steve Forbes, who really isn't much bigger than Pac, was able to hit DLH flush repeatedly, Pac should have an easier time with his speed. I'd love to see DLH go into retirement with a beating.

Taylor (Salt Lake City, UT)

Dan, it was terrible that BJ Flores got hosed last week when they cancelled his fight because of a time conflict. Have the promoters done anything to remedy the situation...like pay him?

Dan Rafael

  (1:26 PM)

BJ would still have been paid, but he wanted to fight. I talked to him after and he was really upset and I don't blame him.

Briks, Philly

Does Rock Allen still have any future in the sport? I haven't heard about him in a while.

Dan Rafael

  (1:26 PM)

He's going to be on Telefutura next month.

Sal (Chicago)

What has been your favorite HBO countdown moment? I'd have to say Oscar/Forbes, playing "Dream On" by Aerosmith was amazing

Dan Rafael

  (1:30 PM)

That was terrific.

Danilo Haussler

Who am I? and why am I getting a title shot?

Dan Rafael

  (1:31 PM)

A German journeyman fraudulently ranked No. 1 by the WBOgus.

Matt G. (Chicago, IL)

Danno, in your opinion, which type fighter makes for a better legacy, ones who clean out their division (ie Hopkins), or ones who take the bigger name fights (De La Hoya)?

Dan Rafael

  (1:31 PM)

Guys who do both, like a Calzaghe and a Jones.

Pete (Montreal)

Any word on Roman Karmazin's next opponent?

Dan Rafael

  (1:33 PM)

Not yet but he may be on the Mosley-Mayorga undercard next month.

yorkis (philly)

Nice work by the Washington D.C. Athletic Commission embarrassing itself with that horrible ruling in the Thompson fight with YOU live in attendance!

Dan Rafael

  (1:34 PM)

I have been ripping them all week in print and on radio interviews.

JQ (Roswell, NM)

Isn't it a good point to note that even though Pacquiao's last two fight were at 130 and 135, he weighed weighed 146 and 147 on fight nights respectively.

Dan Rafael

  (1:34 PM)

Also a valid point.

JD, Saratoga NY

I think Oscar is in the same class as Phil Mickelson...tons of talent, tons of hype...tons of money and success. Yet, never QUITE won as many big ones as he should have.

Dan Rafael

  (1:36 PM)

I don't agree. When you fight the best like Oscar has, you're going to lose a few. Everyone knows he beat Tito and Mosley in the rematch. Sure he got a gift with Sturm, but he gave us all the fights we wanted and made most of then entertaining. Throw in a ton of titles and excitement and what else do you want?

Zowild

And this is the crap that upsets many of us boxing fans; the DLH/Pacquiao could be competitive, but based on DLH size it could also be a mismatch.

Dan Rafael

  (1:37 PM)

So you don't know what's going to happen right? Isn't that a reason to be interested in the fight? Any fight could turn on one punch, you just never know. It's why we watch. I am confident in this -- whatever happens in an Oscar-Pacquiao fight, it will be entertaining for sure.

Frank(Phx)

Dan, I'm hoping Larry Merchant would actually be commentating on the DLH/Pac Man fight. I know HBO didn't have him on Pac Man/Diaz fight and was also not a part of the Cotto vs. Margarito. What's up with that? I wanna see more Larry Merchant!

Dan Rafael

  (1:38 PM)

I am very confident that if the fight happens, Larry will be ringside.

Kevin (NYC)

Hypothetically wouldn't Hatton vs Pacquiao be a way bigger global event than DLH vs Pacquiao?

Dan Rafael

  (1:39 PM)

They're both big, but worldwide Oscar is bigger.

Michael (Long Beach, CA)

Zowild just pointed out why the fight is exciting. We don't know what will happen. What's to be upset about?

slam (mia)

Do you think Manny should take a tune up at 147 before fighting Oscar? Fight a guy ranked like 15 or 20.

Dan Rafael

  (1:39 PM)

Ummm, no.

Banishment

I like it when freaks compare boxers to golfers

Pat (West Seneca)

Dan - is Glen Johnson / Shaun George finalized for Showtime in Novemeber?

Dan Rafael

  (1:40 PM)

Not yet as far as I know.

Joel Julio

Dad, why is Sergio Martinez scared to fight me?

Dan Rafael

  (1:41 PM)

Boooooooooooooo, the Love Child. He's not. Your handlers blew the fight for stupid reasons. I am thinking about giving you up for adoption because I am so infuriated by the decision.

O'C: Denver, CO

Dan I agree with you that De La Hoya beat Tito, but I thought he lost to Ike Quarte and to Sweet Pea. Do you agree?

Dan Rafael

  (1:41 PM)

No, I thought he definitely beat both Ike and Pea.

Travis (Washington, DC)

I got a kick out of the ring announcer last Friday when he announced to the crowd that Dan Rafeal from USA Today was in the house. Where has that guy been the last five years?

Dan Rafael

  (1:43 PM)

I looked at Henry and said to him, "Dude, I haven't been at USA TODAY since 2005, where you been!" He looked at me sheepishly and apologized. Henry is a good dude though.

Tyler ( Atlanta GA)

ManDANgo,Any word on Juan M Lopez's next fight?

Dan Rafael

  (1:44 PM)

Nothing definite but he won't be on Pavlik-Hopkins PPV. He may fight Oct. 4 in Puerto Rico.

Evander Holyfield

I will adopt the Love Child. I need more kids.

Dan Rafael

  (1:46 PM)

LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sean (NY, NY)

Dan, seriously, you're not even gonna address Pavlik-DLH??? I thought that was a pretty good suggestion. Seriously, I think Oscar would get murderized, but that is a good fight to watch, c'mon...

Dan Rafael

  (1:47 PM)

What's there to address? It's not realistic right now. Oscar has stated he isn't going above middleweight and Pavlik is on his way to super middleweight and light heavyweight.

Charlie (Ontario)

Dan, any comment on Paul Molitor's fight this weekend? Does he have what it takes to be a star?

Dan Rafael

  (1:48 PM)

The former Brewers star is now boxing? Who knew?

Jackson (IA)

People who complained about F**** and Oscars fight have NO ROOM to be upset about this fight! If there's one thing for sure with PacMan involved, it's gonna be a FIGHT, not a dance. Why hate? Personally, I think it'll be Oscar's most entertaining fight outside of Vargas...

Dan Rafael

  (1:48 PM)

Amen.

Martin (Oakland,CA)

Is possible we see Mayorga win or lose vs Mosley go against Vernon Forrest for a third time? Can you see it happening for the 154 belt also if Forrest does beat Mora?

Dan Rafael

  (1:51 PM)

I think the possibility of a Mayorga-Forrest third fight is always there and I wouldn't be surprised to see it happen eventually regardless of the outcomes of Mora-Forrest 2 or Mosley-Mayorga. It's the one fight I would really be interested in seeing both guys in.

Dallas, TX

What weight class would the potential fight between De la Hoya vs Paqiuao be classified?

Dan Rafael

  (1:52 PM)

If it happens, it would be a welterweight fight with a max weight of 147 pounds.

Ben (Nashville, TN)

Shouldn't all fights go back to being at least partially prize fights with a portion of the purse on the line?

Dan Rafael

  (1:52 PM)

I would love to see that scenario be the norm for fights.

jcs - wpg

Nice response to the Paul Molitor comment, i laughed. what kind of canadian freak doesn't know his own nation's best fighter?

Dan Rafael

  (1:53 PM)

Clearly, not a true Freak.

Paul (Germantown, MD)

If Berto passes the tough test of stevie forbes, whats the first big name in the welterweight division you see him fighting?

Dan Rafael

  (1:53 PM)

I could see a possible fight with Collazo, who will be a mandatory. Maybe even a Judah, which would be an interesting fight.

Paul (Germantown, MD)

Dan, do you think a possible thrid fight between pac-man and marquez could happen at 135?

Dan Rafael

  (1:53 PM)

If they do fight again, I think it would be at 135.

Kory (Bay St. Louis, MS)

In their prime, how does a fight between Benard Hopkins and James Toney play out?

Dan Rafael

  (1:56 PM)

Interesting that a few years ago they tried to make that fight at a catch weight when James was a cruiserweight and Hopkins was still middleweight champ. It never came off. But I would have definitely favored Toney because he would have been bigger and is such a good boxer with a great chin. I'm just not sure how Hopkins would have dealt with all Toney can do.

Oakland

Did Andre Ward/Goosen mention any names on who his opponent could be come late '08 or early '09?

Dan Rafael

  (1:57 PM)

No, they are focused on getting Andre's knee healthy. I wish him the best of luck in his recovery. Andre is a class act.

Eric (Columbus Ohio)

Any chance of a Mayorga-Cotto brawl? Seems like a fun fight to me

Dan Rafael

  (1:57 PM)

I wouldn't mind seeing that at all.

Peter (Portland, OR)

I know everyone mentions how light Pacman was when he started his career but wasn't he a kid? His body was bound to mature. 106 at 16 isn't the same as if he was fighting at 106 at 24.

Dan Rafael

  (1:57 PM)

Agreed.

Mike (chicago)

Is Klitschko gonna have another year w/ only 2 fights or will he squeeze in the povetkin fight

Dan Rafael

  (1:58 PM)

The Povetkin fight is possible for December. Hopefully, it will happen and then Klitschko is free and clear of mandatory fights for at least the first half of 2009 and he can make whatever fights he wants.

Thom (Cincy)

Dan, what's next for everyone's favorite Olympian Ricardo Williams Jr?

Dan Rafael

  (1:58 PM)

He will be on Gary Shaw's Sept. 5 ShoBox off TV undercard.

Ryan (Worcester, MA)

"When you fight the best like Oscar has, you're going to lose all of them." fixed it for ya Dan.

Dan Rafael

  (1:59 PM)

You are:a) An idiot.b) Banned.

Fletch (Pittsburgh, PA)

Was watching Toney v Jirov the other night and I was wondering your opinion on the greatest finish to a fight that didn't involve a stoppage. I really like Marquez Vaszquez III.

Dan Rafael

  (1:59 PM)

I love the end brawling at the end of the Bowe-Holyfield fights also.

Michael (Long Beach, CA)

c)all of the above.

Banishment

Ryan (Lifetime Banishment)You're not in Worcester, MA. I fixed it for ya, Ryan.

Rick, Marina, Ca

The ending between DLH-Quartey has to be my favorite.

Dan Rafael

  (2:01 PM)

Also a good ending to a non-knockout fight. How about the end of Gatti-Ward?

Michael (Toronto)

Another good non-stoppage end to a fight: Barrera-Morales III.

Dan Rafael

  (2:01 PM)

I was just going to write that!!

Dan Rafael

  (2:01 PM)

I was just going to write that!!

Todd (Banishment)

Welcome, Ryan.

Neal Joliet, IL

Dan you say Manny qould return to 140 or 135 but wouldn't there still be big money for him to fight the Shane Mosley's of the world at 147? Might that be too tempting if he looks good in beating Oscar?

Dan Rafael

  (2:02 PM)

It all depends on the money and how it goes. But from everything Manny, Freddie and Arum say, the move to 147 would be just for one mega super duper fight with Oscar. Then it's back down to where he belongs.

Sean (NY, NY)

Worst ending to a non-stoppage fight???Oscar running from Tito...sooooo disappointing...

Stephen (St. Louis)

*Looks at the time of the Post* Thanks Ryan, I thought we might have actually made it through an entire chat without an official banishment. You've officially made sure the universe will not be destroyed by that mistake.

Dan Rafael

  (2:04 PM)

Don't push your luck Stevie, or you may be joining him.

Briks, Philly

If Manny looks good beating Oscar, I can already imagine F**** coming out of retirement to make a M*********-Pac-Man Megafight. And still not fighting any true Welters.

Dan Rafael

  (2:05 PM)

OK, Freaks, thanks for the chat. Hope you enjoy the notebook and blogs and this weekend's gold medal matches. Talk to you next week. Peace.