Dan Rafael

  (12:01 PM)

Greetings Fight Freaks and welcome to our weekly chat. New notebook is posted and there is a new blog, p4p rankings and divisional rankings also this week. And be sure to check out the Roy Jones diary that I am helping Roy with. And, of course, we can discuss last week's incredible performance from Bernard Hopkins over Kelly Pavlik. Let's get to it.

David (Old Bridge)

Dan, Do you think last Saturday's fight was more Hopkins being brilliant, or Pavlik just not ready to fight at that level, or that weight ? Also, are you more looking forward to De La Hoya vs. Pacquiao or Calzaghe vs. Jones ? Thanks.

Dan Rafael

  (12:03 PM)

I think it was mostly Hopkins being brilliant. Sure, there were factors with weight and Kelly's health, but I honestly believe after seeing what I saw that even if Pavlik was 100%, he would have still lost, just not as lopsided. As for the other question -- I am looking forward to both but for different reasons.

Joe (Pensacola, FL)

Dan, especially with the emergence of his blog, do you ever think about how enormous of a cross-over star Roy Jones might've been had he embraced the media like he's now doing earlier in his career?

Dan Rafael

  (12:04 PM)

In the immortal words of our ringside broadcast hero: Absolutely. I have had the conversation with a few boxing people and they agree. Had Roy been more open and engaging earlier in his career, I believe he could have been one of the biggest sports stars in America, like a Tiger Woods or Dale Jr. or Kobe or Jeter.

Tom (Danbury,CT)

Can we all agree to never have Billy Dib on a PPV card ever again?

Dan Rafael

  (12:04 PM)

Yes, no more B**** D** EVER.

David (Atlanta)

Hi Dan, do you recall a more pathetic undercard than what is shaping up for Calzaghe-Jones? Two weeks out, does Judah even have an opponent?

Dan Rafael

  (12:05 PM)

Judah is facing Ernest Johnson, but you are right, the undercard is horrific. A huge disappointment. I just call it like I see it, but it's easily the worst undercard I can ever remember for a big fight. BY FAR.

Jose M La Habra Ca

Dan - way excited about tonights fight between Bute and Andrade!! how do you see it unfolding?

Dan Rafael

  (12:07 PM)

I'm really happy the fight is on Showtime. It was a great call for the network to pick up the fight. Andrade is a tough customer but Bute is a far better boxer and he has such massive support in Montreal, he really feeds off it. I think Bute will win a convincing decision in a solid fight.

Ant (UK)

I saw an informal poll was conducted with the BWAA on whether to induct Naseem Hamed into the Hall of Fame in 2009, only 23% gave a positive response. Would you vote him in?

Dan Rafael

  (12:07 PM)

I mailed in my ballot earlier this week and in an upcoming blog I will discuss exactly who and who I did not vote for.

Ronald (Covington, KY)

DTM, is Holyfield-Valuev officially official yet?

Dan Rafael

  (12:08 PM)

Not yet, but it is still on the table.

Mark (Chicago)

Why does it sound like Shane is going to have his pick between Berto and TJT? Should Tony be the one calling the shots here? Which fight would you rather see?

Dan Rafael

  (12:09 PM)

I think because both Margarito and Berto are asking for Shane, so he gets to pick between the two options. I would not mind seeing either fight, but forced to pick, you gotta go with Margarito-Mosley. Berto's time will come.

Gerald (San Diego, CA)

Is RJJ a Hall of Famer if he wins this fight against Joe?

Dan Rafael

  (12:10 PM)

RJ was a Hall of Famer years ago. Nothing that happens on Nov. 8 will change that. Roy is an automatic first ballot HOFer.

Nathan (PA)

Dan, I am not quite sure how the alphabets work. If Paul Williams beats Phillips for the interim belt, would he have to give up his welterweight title? Would he lose that title simply by taking this fght with Phillips?

Dan Rafael

  (12:10 PM)

If Paul wins, he would have his option to either keep his 147 belt or accept the 154 belt.

Erik (Atlanta, Ga.)

D$$$$ I plan on making the trip to TN for the Taylor/Lacy fight, will you be there and is this Taylor's fight to lose?

Dan Rafael

  (12:11 PM)

I plan on being there. Just in the process of doing the travel paperwork to send in. I do think Taylor should be the favorite, but Jeff is a dangerous puncher.

Sam (Houston)

If Roy wins against Joe, does he crack your P4P list? Also, do you think Roy and Bernard will be able to compromise on the purse?

Dan Rafael

  (12:11 PM)

Of course, if Roy grabs a win he would be back on the p4p list. He'd have to be. And if he wins, I do think they'll be able to make a deal at long last.

Jason (Seattle)

Do we know if Kelly watched B**** D** fight before he went out to fight Bernard, because I'll be convinced until I die that is why he was in a half-coma for the fight.

tk (sf, calif)

hey dan, when's the kickoff for the new season of fnf?

Dan Rafael

  (12:12 PM)

Jan. 9.

rob (jersey)

What a performance by BHOP to witness - did you get to chat at all with RJJ last saturday - and did he say anything about the fight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:12 PM)

Read today's Jones diary. He had plenty to say about the fight.

Rick, Marina, CA

Hopkins made Pavlik look so beatable. I cant believe all the talk from Pavlik's camp about knocking out B-Hop, they look foolish.

Dan Rafael

  (12:13 PM)

Personally, although I picked Pavlik, I always believed it would be a very tough fight for him and I never for a moment believed Pavlik would score the knockout of Hopkins.

Matt (DC)

Dan, Is the Ndou-Cintron fight an elimanator for Clottey title?

Dan Rafael

  (12:13 PM)

I believe it is for the No. 2 position, not No. 1.

Mark

Dan, late I know, but I just watched the Jeff Lacy-Peter Manfredo Jr fight for the first time a couple of days ago. Who did you have winning that fight, I thought Manfredo pulled it off.

Dan Rafael

  (12:14 PM)

I had Lacy close. Manfredo did nothing down the stretch to win it. He basically have the fight to Lacy.

Tom (Danbury,CT)

Seriously? Bruce Seldon, Frans Botha and Michael Grant are all fighting again?

Dan Rafael

  (12:14 PM)

I know that sometimes the schedule can be a scary thing to read.

Dan (Brooklyn, NY)

You gotta love Cotto's willingness to fight Cintron in his comeback fight. Cintron can crack! Thanks for the info Dan.

Rich (Stamford CT)

Hey Dan, thanks as always for the Friday chat. Did you see Demetrius Andrade on VS last night? That was a sick bodyshot.

Dan Rafael

  (12:15 PM)

Yes, I saw it. Andrade looked good against a guy he was supposed to look good against. The body shot was wicked.

John (ATL GA)

Dan, everyone is saying that BHop-RJJ would be awesome, but I remember a snoozefest 15 years ago.

Dan Rafael

  (12:16 PM)

That was 15 years ago and Jones had an injured arm. I think there a LOT of people who would like to see a rematch if Jones beats Joe.

Rog (Sacramento, CA)

Bernard seems very race-focused the past two years. I know he meant it as a learning too, but to tell Kelly that he needs to learn how to fight "black fighters"? Kelly's beaten a few black figthers in his day, Bernard. It's just peculiar to me how he's always working race into the picture one way or another.

Dan Rafael

  (12:18 PM)

I did not take BHop's comments about black fighters after the fight as racist. Within boxing, black fighters, right or wrong, are perceived by many, as being more slick than, say, a Mexican fighter. I understood what Hopkins meant and so did Pavlik. It was not meant racially in a negative way at all in my opinion.

Tim (Lincoln)

Dan-o, isn't Cintron a terrible opponent for Cotto right now? You don't risk losing the rematch by putting him in with a one-punch knockout fighter!

Dan Rafael

  (12:18 PM)

Boxing is about risk and reward.

Paddy from Chicago

What are the chances of Paul Williams vs Kelly Pavlik happening? I think that would be a really interesting fight.

Dan Rafael

  (12:19 PM)

Are in a time warp or have you been in a coma for three months?

Jason (Orlando)

Dan the Man- Where do you rank RJJR all time P4P?

Dan Rafael

  (12:20 PM)

I don't do all-time rankings while a guy is still active.

Tim (Ray MO)

Emanuel Augustus would be a good fill in for Salita on the Jones-Calzaghe undercard.

Dan Rafael

  (12:20 PM)

That would be a fun fight but I would be shocked if the Salita took it if offered.

rob (jersey)

Just read the notebook - and isn't it obvious that Shane would make more money against Margarito then against Berto - or are there other factors?

Dan Rafael

  (12:22 PM)

It is not obvious because in a Margarito fight, even if the total pot is bigger, Margarito is going to take at least 50-50. Against Berto, Shane would take a much larger percentage even if the overall dollars were less. In other words, for example, would you rather take 50 percent of a $4 million pot or 75% of a $3 million pot?

Joe (NYC)

11/22 or 12/6 for Kirkland (hoping it's the latter)?

Dan Rafael

  (12:23 PM)

They are still talking 11/22 and working on a settlement with Gary Shaw.

Dominic (San Francisco)

Dan! What were you thinking when Hopkins stood and stared at press row after the 12th round?

Dan Rafael

  (12:24 PM)

That the old man got us and got us good. I've been down that road with BHop before. We've talked about the fact that he uses a handful or reporters he knows well, who pick against him sometimes, to motivate himself. I told him jokingly that I am happy to help.

Matt (DC)

Will Cristobal Cruz be considered as an opponent for Gamboa. Now that he has a belt.

Dan Rafael

  (12:24 PM)

Why not?

JKGaucho (DC)

I have a hard time believing that Shane would get anywhere close to 75% of a Berto fight because Berto has the title. Additionally, Shane is a terrible ticket seller and his ratings on HBO vs. Mayorga stunk too.

Dan Rafael

  (12:25 PM)

Berto has the title but Shane is the A-side. Plenty of guys with titles have taken a lot less because of the other guy's star power.

Dan Rafael

  (12:25 PM)

And I didn't specifically mean it would be 75-25 in that fight. I was simply illustrating the decision Shane has to make because he will definitely get far more than 50 percent against Berto.

Kinoba (GA)

Hi Dan - how are you? i hope you are well. Is there any news you can report regarding Chris John fighting in the US?

Dan Rafael

  (12:26 PM)

No.

Pancho, Los Mochis

What did you think of the Salido-Cruz fight last night? Who did you have winning?

Dan Rafael

  (12:27 PM)

I thought Cruz deserved the decision in a somewhat disappointing fight. I thought there would be more action.

roy fan

did Gerald actually ask if Roy Jones Jr. will be a HOFer if he wins his fight? Did Gerlad watch any boxing at all between 1991 - 2003?

Dan Rafael

  (12:27 PM)

Gerald is an idiot.

Richard

Dan, and news on whats next for Sergio Mora. I've heard there could be a third fight with Vernon Forrest in January, is this true?

Dan Rafael

  (12:28 PM)

I'm sure Sergio would love that but I very much doubt it happens. Vernon took him to the woodshed in the rematch and who would buy a third fight?

Rick, Marina, Ca

Ive always respected Hopkins after he beat Tito, but after his latest I have new found respect. There's proof if you put ya mind in to doing something, there's nothing that cant stop you. Keep on fighting B-Hop.

JP (Columbus, OH)

Mike Tyson at the strip clubs at 5:30 in the morning every night, Dan? Surely you jest, sir.

Dan Rafael

  (12:29 PM)

When the cabbie told me that story (which is in my blog) I was cracking up but not all surprised to hear it.

Joe (NYC)

If Paul Williams wins, and decides to keep the 154 title, would he then be the mandatory for the Dzinziruk-Julio winner?

Dan Rafael

  (12:29 PM)

Based on the WBO's rules, yes.

Banishment

Gerald come on down!!! And bring B**** D** with you!!

Aaron (Hartford)

Dan..is there gonna be a countdown show for Paulie/Hatton ?

Dan Rafael

  (12:30 PM)

No there isn't.

Keith (Philly)

Yo Dan.. Buy or Sell A Margarito/Williams rematch in 09'

Dan Rafael

  (12:30 PM)

I really don't know but I would hope so.

Rob (Halifax, Canada)

Say Roy and Hop doesn't come off. Bernard talked about a move to HW for Maskaev, any chance he'g go interim vs Chagaev??

Dan Rafael

  (12:31 PM)

I doubt that. But BHop said after the fight he could still make 168, so I wouldn't mind seeing him go for the super middleweight title or even go for the cruiserweight title.

Joe (Pensacola, FL)

Do you care at all that Chris John defended his title? Was this just another member of his bum-of-the-month club or was this guy more legit?

Dan Rafael

  (12:32 PM)

John won today in Japan against a very legitimate opponent.

Paddy from Chicago

B-Hop is the man!!! (golf clap) Wow, where has that man been hiding?

Chris (Appleton, WI)

So the Calzaghe-Jones undercard is worse that De La Hoya-Mayweather's?

Dan Rafael

  (12:32 PM)

Much.

Mike (Hillsboro OR)

Dan, after reviewing Don King's card in China recently I came to the conclusion his stable of fighters (talent wise)is not what is used to be or even compares favorably to some of the other top Promoter's fighters... true/not true?

Dan Rafael

  (12:33 PM)

DK's stable is the worst and thinnest it has been maybe ever.

Ryan (Worcester, MA)

I saw Joe Tessitore covering horse racing this morning. Is this why they cancelled WNF? They needed a horse racing commentator??

Dan Rafael

  (12:33 PM)

Joe has been doing horse racing for quite some time in addition to his boxing duties. He also does college football.

Joe: San Francisco, CA

Do you think that Pavlik needs a new trainer? Seems like there was no "Plan B" from Loew to make any adjustments. "Double jab and be busier" only goes so far

Dan Rafael

  (12:35 PM)

Not at all. Pavlik and Loew had a lot of success together and one loss, even lopsided, to an all-time great doesn't mean you blow that up. They've been together forever and they should stay together.

George (Lebanon, NH)

Are you ready for the return of the 24/7 theme song? How will this show compare to the first two series?

Dan Rafael

  (12:35 PM)

I am psyched for it. Since I have not seen the episodes yet I have no idea how it will compare. But I know many of the HBO production folks and they are brilliant at what they do, so I am sure the show will be great again.

Luke Danbury, CT

Dan, what do you think about B-Hop vs the USS Cunningham? In the Wachovia center (or whatever it is now). That would be a huge fight for Philly!

Dan Rafael

  (12:36 PM)

I have thought about that but Cunningham needs to beat Adamek, first off. Plus, it's hard to see BHop doing a deal with King unless it's a one-off. Also, does that fight do any PPV business? Hard to see that since Cunningham is virtually unknown.

Chris

Maybe now Pavlik will stop training in a slum by tossing concrete blocks around and find a real gym and some real equipment.

Dan Rafael

  (12:37 PM)

Maybe you'll get a life after being banned? Bye bye.

Justin (DC)

Do you believe that this will be Calzaghe's last fight? Truthfully, if Calzaghe beats Jones, and I may be alone, but I want to see Hopkins/Calzaghe 2. I know it's not an aesthetically pleasing match up, but the point is, it was a close fight.

Dan Rafael

  (12:39 PM)

I think at the end of the day, this won't be Joe's last fight. But that said, I do not see him giving Bernard a rematch either.

Banishment

Chris needs to be hit over the head with a concrete block before I finish him off....mmmmmmmmmmmmmm

Joe (Las Vegas)

I wasn't old enough for the first Hopkins-Roy Jones fight. Did Jones dominate? Was it an exciting fight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:40 PM)

Jones won easily, a methodical 8-4, 9-3 type of decision basically fighting with one arm. A pretty bad fight before either guy had become a star. It was actually an undercard fight on a card headlined by a Riddick Bowe heavyweight title defense.

jason(saratoga springs, NY)

I believe you're on record saying that Sugar Ray Leonard is the best fighter in your lifetime as a fan, but would you agree that RJJ is the most physically gifted fighter of your lifetime? I think so, going back to 1980 he's tops...

Dan Rafael

  (12:40 PM)

There is no doubt that Roy's physical gifts are amazing.

Rick, Marina, Ca

Any chance Hokins considers a fight with Dawson ?

Dan Rafael

  (12:41 PM)

I think BHop would consider any fight for which he could motivate himself and any fight for which he was paid a substantial amount of money.

David (Atl)

can you speculate as to the January Boxing After Dark undercard? Is Kid Chocolate supposed to be fighting?

Dan Rafael

  (12:43 PM)

The card is supposed to be Duddy-Hearns, Quillin-McGirt Jr. But Duddy and Hearns need to win interim bout.

tk (sf, calif)

has bernard every toyed with the idea of fighting at heavyweight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:43 PM)

Yes, he talked about wanting to fight Maskaev after he won a belt from Rahman.

corey(from WestWick)

Dan I was gald I made the trip to the fight and to witness history. The whole thing was great from the weight in to getting to meet Shane Mosley to the fight.

Dan Rafael

  (12:43 PM)

Glad you had a good time. It was an amazing night.

Antonio Tarver (Tampa, FL)

It's ok Pavlik I know who you feel.

Wilson (DC)

Dan, wasn't Hopkins/Roy in DC? I've seen the tape, and I had Roy a pretty clear 7-5. Hopkins basically just had a right hand at that point, though - he wasn't really developed in terms of footwork, cutting off the ring, etc.

Dan Rafael

  (12:45 PM)

Yes, it was in DC several years before I moved to the area. But I do have a nice poster in my collection from that fight.

Ricky Hatton Fans (Manchester, England)

Dan are you ready for us!!!!! SING ALONG! THERE'S ONLY OOOOONNNNNNEEEEE!!!!! RICKY HATTON!!!

Dan Rafael

  (12:45 PM)

I'm as ready as I will ever be.

Paul

Dawson would smoke BHop like Don King smokes a cigar in the bathtub while talking to Dan Rafael on the phone.

John (NY)

I seem to recall you wrote an article on the fight of Hopkins and Pavlik that you personally weren't that keen seeing them fighting, by no means I am trying to pick on you as I have a lot of respect for you but looking back and having seen what you saw, is there anything you would like to say about you wrote?

Dan Rafael

  (12:47 PM)

I said what I said and stick by it. Before the fight, I thought it would be a bad fight and, frankly, I gave BHop a good chance to win (even though I didn't pick him), which would be bad overall for boxing for a 43-year-old to beat an emerging star. It turned out different, but I made my comments and that is what it is.

JP (Columbus, OH)

Do ya think maybe BHop rewarded himself after that performance with maybe a beer? Or a piece of cake? Nah, me neither. What a freak.

Dan Rafael

  (12:49 PM)

Bernard will reward himself with a 5-mile run.

rob (jersey)

Dan - maybe a dumb question sorry if it is - is Showtime just showing the Bute/Andrade fight? Or (hopefully) will coverage start with Dominick Guinn?

Dan Rafael

  (12:50 PM)

Showtime will air Bute-Andrade and Hearns-Clavette. The Guinn fight is not scheduled for the broadcast.

Brandon (SD)

Dan-O, were you sitting ringside when B-Hop stared down the media? That was a mean look! Gave me chills watching it!

Dan Rafael

  (12:51 PM)

Yes and I was one of the reporters he was looking dead at.

Roger, NYC

Did you see a columnist on cnnsi throwing shots at you last week? I do not have an article link but called you a sensationalist, etc...was wondering what you thought, if anything of stuff like that.

Dan Rafael

  (12:51 PM)

Didn't see it and don't care. Just hope he spelled my name right.

Fred (PA)

Would HBO and Showtime have to negotiate a Hopkins-Dawson fight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:52 PM)

Not at all because neither fighter is tied to a network.

Donald (New Orleans)

In your divisional rankings, do you take into account a fight taken at a catch weight? For example, if Pavlik had been KO'd by Hopkins, would you have moved him down and replaced him with Abraham?

Dan Rafael

  (12:53 PM)

No because Pavlik is still THE middleweight champion regardless of what happens at 170.

Berndawg

Given the Hopkins win, if Taylor looks very good against Lacy, I like the Taylor/Hopkins 3 fight.

Greg P (Staten Island,NY)

Dan, the Verno/Williams fight is a perfect ex of why sanctioning bodies are completely irrelavant!!

Dan Rafael

  (12:55 PM)

I have no issue with the fight but the whole belt thing is a freaking joke. Why should Williams get to fight for the WBO's interim title when the full title is being contested a couple of weeks earlier in a mandatory fight? It is such utter greed and corruption. It disgusts me.

Luis: (Philadelphila PA):

Dan if Lucian Bute gets bye Andrade is there a possibility that he fights the winner of Lacy-Taylor?

Dan Rafael

  (12:56 PM)

I think it's a long shot.

Ben (San Juan, Puerto Rico)

What are your thoughts on Juan Manuel Lopez's fight with Sergio Medina on the undercard of De la Hoya/Pacquiao?

Dan Rafael

  (12:58 PM)

That fight is not done so don't count on it. Despite what you may read in some places, it ain't done. They are apart on the money.

John (ATL GA)

Dan, I thought Elite XC was supposed to put boxing in the grave. lol. I guess thats what happens when your whole company is depending on a street fighting nobody.

Dan Rafael

  (12:58 PM)

Ouch.

Greg P (Staten Island,NY)

Dan, lot of talk about 175...ALL-TIME fight Foster/Ray Rob at 175...Is Foster to big for him?

Dan Rafael

  (1:00 PM)

I recently got several DVDs of Foster fights. He was a terrific fighter, really big for his division with awesome power. I actually think he would have beaten Roy at 175 as much as I respect Roy's ability and skill.

Chris (Greensboro, NC)

Should I be skeptical about the reports of Amir Khan fighting on the undercard of DLH-Pacman?

Dan Rafael

  (1:00 PM)

Another rumor. It's not happening, although it was discussed.

Mike NJ

Any idea what Bhop did right after the fight? Party?

Dan Rafael

  (1:01 PM)

I know they had an after party, although I am not sure if BHop went to it. I know I didn't. I went back to my room and went to sleep.

Eric (NYC)

Has B-Hop ever been cut in a fight?

Dan Rafael

  (1:02 PM)

To my knowledge, he's never been cut and if he has, it was certainly nothing serious.

Aaron (Hartford)

Is the Love Child coming back from Europe a World Champion ?

Dan Rafael

  (1:03 PM)

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, the Love Child. Joel Julio has a tough fight on his hands with Dzindziruk coming up, but it's a fight he can win.

Ed (NYC)

Over/Under 4 Rounds for Povetkin vs Klitschko?

Dan Rafael

  (1:05 PM)

Over.

Todd (NY)

Who is working the Jones-Calzaghe fight, Larry or Max?

Dan Rafael

  (1:06 PM)

Max.

Rick, Marina, Ca

Im really looking forward to the Mijares-Darchinyan fight, I really hope Mijares wins I dont like darchinyans cocky self. I hope Mijares puts on a clinic and makes him look foolish.

Dan Rafael

  (1:07 PM)

I am also looking forward to it because it's two of the best in the division facing each other. But I think Mijares has too much skill for the crude Darchinyan and will take him to school after some possible rough moments.

John (ATL GA)

Dan, do you know of a round-about PPV buys from Saturday?

Dan Rafael

  (1:08 PM)

Nothing official, but from what I hear it is probably in the 200,000s.

Choco, New Jersey

Dan, is it true that Hopkins has a win over Glenn Johnson?

Dan Rafael

  (1:09 PM)

Yes. In fact, BHop defened his middleweight title against Johnson at the time Glen was undefeated and he stopped him late, the only time Glen has ever been stopped. It was televised on CBS back when the networks actually showed boxing.

Frustrated

Dan, why don't my questions post?

Dan Rafael

  (1:10 PM)

Because they suck.

Dave ( Phili)

Dan when are you gonna leave your wife and propose to Bernard Hopkins? Geez, Pavlik had an off night and you are talking about Bernard like he's your boyfriend. Wake me up when he knocks somebody out, (or even down) again...

Dan Rafael

  (1:10 PM)

Are you a frustrated Pavlik fan or just an idiot?

Rick, Marina, Ca

Whats the latest in Montiel ? Im sure he has alot of interst in the Mijares-Darcho fight.

Dan Rafael

  (1:10 PM)

Montiel is fighting a nontitle bout in Mexico on Nov. 2.

Vitali (Ukraine)

B-hop puts wee on his face...no cuts.

Rich (Stamford CT)

I heard Bernard celebrated by going to Costco to buy wholesale salad and grilled chicken.

Vitali (Ukraine)

Dan, you have been typing much. Soke your hands in some wee and the swelling in your typing fingers will go down.

John (ATL GA)

Would Dawson bring enough to the table to fight bhop?

Dan Rafael

  (1:12 PM)

I don't think so right now, although personally I would like to see that fight. I have a lot of respect for Chad's ability and I think he is an outstanding young fighter. I think he needs to get another notable win and have a lot of people see it before he could bring the kind of attention and money that would satisfy BHop.

Joe (NYC)

If the PPV #s from Sat's fight ends up being under 250,000 would that be considered a failure

Dan Rafael

  (1:12 PM)

I think so.

Brian (Concord NC)

Hey Dan, I read some comments you made about Mayweather retiring early because he was afraid to lose and I think you're absolutely right. The Welterweight division is so loaded right now and I think it's a shame we won't get to see Pretty Boy face Magarito, Cotto, Williams, Mosley, Clottey, or Berto.

Jeremy (Boston)

What did you think of Don Steinburg writing in the fight credential blog that BHop is avoiding Chad dawson? More or less crazy than the highlight reel comment?

Dan Rafael

  (1:14 PM)

No offense to my buddy Don, but he must have been drinking that day. Bernard it not avoiding Chad Dawson and the mere suggestion of that is a joke.

Tomas

I'd hate to hear what Vitali does when his throat swells up...

Justin (DC)

Hopkins' performance was awe aspiring.

Jeremy (Boston)

Has Roy ever been this open with the media before a fight?

Dan Rafael

  (1:15 PM)

Not that I can think of, althoug he was pretty cooperative before the Trinidad fight as well.

Ed (Dallas, TX)

Rafa, regarding Jason from saratoga springs' comment about RRJ. Who would you like in an all-time fight Leonard vs Roy at, say, 160?

Dan Rafael

  (1:16 PM)

At 160, I think you'd have to favor Roy. SRL was at his best at welter and was a lot smaller than Roy even though he moved up and won titles in other divisions.

Duff (Abington,MA)

Any news on Devon Alexander being on the under card of the Cunningham-Adamek fight from Newark?

Dan Rafael

  (1:17 PM)

If Devon wins in China and is uninjured, he could still be added to the Newark card.

Ryan, Palatine IL

Good afternoon Dan! Unless I missed Andy Lee on the upcoming schedule, I do not see anything for him. Do you have any status on him?

Dan Rafael

  (1:19 PM)

Andy has nothing coming up. I think he is having (or just had) minor surgery to clean up some scar tissue over his eye.

Steve (CA)

Will there ever be another big fight outdoors in Las Vegas like in the 80's and 90's?

Dan Rafael

  (1:21 PM)

I would sure hope so, but right now 95% of the notable fights in Vegas are either at Mandalay Bay or the MGM.

Dominic (San Francisco)

Dan... I know you won't shake Vitali's hand next time you see him, but please ask him what magical healing power his son's wee has in reducing swelling. Since he's a PhD I would think he has a good answer.

Jamar (Charleston, WV)

What ever happened to Edison Miranda? And who is he fighting next?

Dan Rafael

  (1:22 PM)

Someone needs to check the schedule because he's on there.

Eddie (San Die)

Is the reason why Foreman's win over Moore is bigger than B-Hop's because Foreman won the most coveted prize in sports?

Dan Rafael

  (1:22 PM)

I don't think it's "bigger." Fact is, Foreman was getting his butt kicked before the knockout whereas Hopkins completely shut down Pavlik.

Chris M., Toronto

On a scale of 1 to 10, just how damaging was the loss to Pavlik's reputation? 11? 12?

Dan Rafael

  (1:23 PM)

It was pretty bad, but I hope he can bounce back and do his thing at middleweight.

Mike NJ

Were you at the Hamed/Kevin Kelly fight? I just watched that again on youtube...good scrap

Dan Rafael

  (1:25 PM)

I was not there but wish I had been. In fact, I was working at a newspaper in upstate New York and I put in a credential request because my boss was going to let me go, but we were denied a credential, which still irks me to this day.

Ed, Winnipeg

Just saw that Salita will be facing Derrick Campos... Who is he?

Dan Rafael

  (1:25 PM)

A stiff.

Washington, DC

Sult-Dan of Swing -- no question, just a nickname!

Dan Rafael

  (1:25 PM)

Nice! I am a huge Dire Straits fan!

Chris (Greensboro, NC)

All jokes aside, isn't there a possibility that urine can actually help heal? Jorge Posada and Moises Alous have both acknowledged that they urinate on their hands to toughen up their hands.

Dan Rafael

  (1:26 PM)

True or not true, I have no interest in finding out thank you.

Yorkis (Philly)

I got to meet Bert Sugar on Saturday night! That guy is awesome. I hope I look that good when I'm 120 yrs old!

Dan Rafael

  (1:27 PM)

Bert is the man, like my crazy uncle!

Nathan (Raleigh, NC)

A couple of 154 pound hypotheticals...Kirkland vs. Angulo? Joel Julio vs. both? Who would you give the nod to?

Dan Rafael

  (1:27 PM)

I would love to see those fights. Each would be exciting. I would probably take Angulo over Kirkland but would favor Julio over both.

Erik (Atlanta, Ga.)

Big ups to ESPN I'm able to Chat with D$$$ and B-Hop at the same time this is awesome!

Dan Rafael

  (1:28 PM)

Say hi to BHop for me.

Yorkis (Philly)

Billy Dib flew 20 hrs from Australia for THAT? He sucks.

Robert, LA

Hey Dan, Do you know if Barerra is still fighting on DK China's card and who he is fighting? Thanks Dan-O

Dan Rafael

  (1:28 PM)

There's such thing as the espn.com scheduled. Use it or be banned for life.

Brock (Belleville, IL)

BHop might be a legend in the ring but your chat is held at too high a pace for him. TKO 1:40PM

Mike NJ

I know you're a married man but do you catch yourself looking up between rounds to take a look at the round card girls? Be honest

Dan Rafael

  (1:29 PM)

I'm married. I ain't dead.

Mario (Bell Gardens, CA)

Just curious to know, if by some miracle Holyfield fights Valuev and beats him to win the heavyweight title, would you rank a Holyfield title win today higher than Foreman's win over Moore????

Dan Rafael

  (1:30 PM)

I would. Holyfield is ancient and been losing regularly. To win a major title at his age when he has been left for dead for YEARS would be even more amazing than what George did because George always had the puncher's chance. Holyfield doesn't knock out anyone anymore with one shot.

Sancho,Ca

Dan, I know the rest of the year is loaded with good fights, but what does showtime have in store 4 january???

Dan Rafael

  (1:30 PM)

The old TBA.

Alejandro ( Paramus,NJ)

sup dan who do have winning the fight Holt-Torres match up and when are they selling tickets

Dan Rafael

  (1:31 PM)

Tickets are not on sale yet and I am not certain when they will be, but soon I would think. After seeing their first two fights, I have absolutely know idea what to expect except for the unexpected. I wouldn't even hazzard a guess on that one.

Mario (Bell Gardens, CA)

Danaconda, during the HBO telecast Larry Merchant asked, "Jim, does "Dib" mean "boring" in Australian?" - I almost choked on a buffalo wing laughing.

Dan Rafael

  (1:31 PM)

That's why Larry is a legend.

Greg P (Staten Island,NY)

Dan, you said Ray Leonard best weight was 147...does he give Ray Robinson at 147 a competitive fight or goes to sleep?

Dan Rafael

  (1:32 PM)

I think SRL is competitive with anyone in history at welterweight including SRR.

JKGaucho (DC)

Dan, can we please put Demarcus "Shot Shot" Corley out to pasture?

Dan Rafael

  (1:32 PM)

I wish. I think he's lost six in a row at this point.

JM

Dan, can we stop all the hand-wringing about not having clarity in the heavyweight division because the Klitschkos won't fight each other? It's very simple really...Any fighter who beats either brother then faces the other one for the recognized/Ring/Lineal championship. End of story!

Dan Rafael

  (1:32 PM)

Easier said than done.

Pribs (Bethlehem, PA)

Rock Allen was dropped from the card again last Saturday Night. He seems to have a great team around him, any idea why his career is in neutral?

Dan Rafael

  (1:33 PM)

As far as Saturday goes, they couldn't secure an opponent, which is why Rock's fight was called off.

rob (jersey)

Dan - speaking of Holt/Torres - is the upstairs theater is nice spot for a fight? - Never been myself....

Dan Rafael

  (1:33 PM)

Great spot. Nice room. It's where Margarito fought Lujan, where Pernell Whitaker fought Hurtado.

Will ( Springdale, Ar )

Hey DTM do you know who Cotto next opponent will be? I think it will be an awsome fight if he take on Joshua Clottey what about you?

Dan Rafael

  (1:34 PM)

As I wrote today, either Cintron or Soto Karras is who Arum is talking about. But I agree with you -- a Clottey-Cotto fight would be sweet,

Larry (DC)

B-Hop or James Toney at 160 0r 175?

Dan Rafael

  (1:35 PM)

That was actually a fight they tried to make a few years ago at a catch weight.

Michael (Long Beach, CA)

Dan, is there any animosity between Taylor and Lacey or just two guys at crossroads in their careers?

Dan Rafael

  (1:36 PM)

No animosity as far as I know. They were buddies during the 2000 Olympics and amateurs. But business is business.

possy (Reading)

who would win in a boxing match? anderson silva or roy jones jr?

Dan Rafael

  (1:36 PM)

Let's be very clear here: In a boxing match, Roy Jones might kill Silva.

Matt Paras (Naperville, IL)

Thoughts on Hozumi Hasegawa? Would you like to see Hasegawa-Mijares. I know I would

Dan Rafael

  (1:37 PM)

Very nice fight. Hasegawa is a very good fighter. I have seen him many times and he's been on a good run in recent fights.

Scott (CT)

More proof that Dan is THE man...Bernard's chat has ended already and Dan is still going!

Dan Rafael

  (1:37 PM)

In a boxing ring, BHop would smoke me. In a chat, I will crush him every time!

Mario (Bell Gardens, CA)

If Cotto fights Cintron and loses, it eliminates a rematch with Margarito. But if Margarito beats Mosley in January 09, and Oscar wins in December, the biggest fight in June would be De La Hoya vs. Margarito. WOW!!!!!

Dan Rafael

  (1:38 PM)

I agree.

Ricardo

Dan, I made this point a couple weeks ago...has there been any discussion at all about an internet Boxing show on espn.com?

Dan Rafael

  (1:38 PM)

Not that I am aware of.

Josh (Indy)

Can you recall any examples of someone young like Pavlik taking a beating and coming back better? I'm just concerned that there's a blueprint now and Pavlik will have that in his mind too.

Dan Rafael

  (1:39 PM)

How about Joe Louis?

Mike NJ

Bhop just said in his chat that HBO is showing the replay of the fight tonight at 11:00. true??

Dan Rafael

  (1:39 PM)

As far as I know, the replay is at midnight. That is what all of HBO's press releases say and what their PR folks told me.

Tim (Gardner, IL)

How does Pretty Boy Floyd go about earning the respect of Dan the Man?

Dan Rafael

  (1:40 PM)

I've always respected Floyd. I just don't agree with everything he's done or the fights he's taken. But I have absolutely nothing against him whatsoever and, frankly, on a personal level, I like the guy and have always had a good relationship with him. He's always treated me nicely and for the most part, been cooperative.

Tim (Gardner, IL)

My buddy's cousin hasn't seen or heard anything about the Pavlik/Hopkins fight yet. All week he has been talking about how Pavlik will destroy Hopkins, can't wait to see his reaction this weekend.

Dan Rafael

  (1:41 PM)

Does he live in a cave?

Jim (TX)

Only in boxing where a guy can lose and still be Champion, a la Pavlik...boxing is dead, Dan!

Dan Rafael

  (1:43 PM)

You are an absolute idiot. For 100-plus years, it has worked like this (unless you are too dumb to understand): Boxers fight in weight divisions. If you are the 160-pound champion like Pavlik is and you lose at 170 pounds that is called a nontitle fight Mr. Dope. Pavlik lost at 170. But he remains 160-pound champion. Is that concept too hard for you to understand? Banishment, you are served. Try not to vomit.

kevin (va beach)

Has Jim ever heard of a "non-title" fight?

Dan Rafael

  (1:44 PM)

Apparently not.

Jeremy (Boston)

It's like if the Patriots lost to the Cowboys and were still in first in AFC EASt, it happens in all sports. Ban Jim!

Greg P (Staten Island,NY)

Dan, please ban him!!!!!

Dan Rafael

  (1:45 PM)

Already taken care of. I think that is quite literally the stupidist question ever in one these chats.

Rick, Marina,Ca

LOL, does he live in cave, LOL, Wow, where do these people come from?

Dan Rafael

  (1:46 PM)

You should some of the crap I don't post. I depresses me to realize that these people are allowed to vote.

BANISHMENT

I refuse to eat JIM since he tastes so bad.

Peter (Philadelphia)

More impressive win: Calzaghe-Lacy or Hopkins-Pavlik ?

Dan Rafael

  (1:46 PM)

Hopkins-Pavlik.

Kent - St Catharines

I am not even sure Banishment can keep an idiot like Jim down.

Dan Rafael

  (1:47 PM)

We have breaking news folks.

Dan Rafael

  (1:47 PM)

Bat email is working nicely. Victor Ortiz will face Jeff Resto on the Dec. 6 DLH-Pacquiao PPV undercard.

Greg P (Staten Island,NY)

Dan, don't you love when the FREAKS attack each other?

Dan Rafael

  (1:48 PM)

Yes, it's pretty funny sometimes.

John (ATL GA)

Nice fight for Ortiz, but honestly Ortiz could fight girl scout and I would love it. Can't wait to se him back in the ring.

joe

hahah jeffery resto? i still remember when he quit on espn 2

Rich (Stamford CT)

Does Jim from TX still think the Cowboys are the best team in football too? Good lord....

Erik (Atlanta, Ga.)

I'm really afraid to see what you don't post

GEORGE W BUSH

at least there was a dumber Texan than me.

Yorkis (Philly)

Wow Jim! Should we just hand his belts over to Marco Antonio Rubio? You suck.

Jason (DE)

Calzaghe/Hopkins rematch. Who ya got?

Dan Rafael

  (1:49 PM)

Nobody because it isn't going to happen.

Bat Phone (Breast Pocket)

(ding) You've got pugilism.

Tim (Gardner, IL)

I need to get connections so I can have DVDs sent to me, where do I begin?

Dan Rafael

  (1:50 PM)

Work the message boards and forums, record a lot of stuff yourself you so have stuff to trade and stay on top of it. It's not easy.

Aaron (Strathcona, MN)

I cannot WAIT for Jones/Calzaghe 24/7 series on HBO. I hope this series does for them what Hatton/Mayweather did for that fight. The way Hatton spoke so cordially, he made me believe him there was no way he was going to lose. Talk about personally investing in a fight before it happens. If casual boxing fans watch 24/7, they would be hooked.

John, (Grand Rapids, Mi)

Dan, Did you catch the SNL show last night? Thoughts? Other than that Ferrell is awesome.

Dan Rafael

  (1:51 PM)

Hilarious. The opening skit was great. My wife and I laughed through the whole thing.

mike t. (brownsville)

not all of us can vote. some of us are convicted felons

marcus brooklyn

When is winky wright coming back and what fights do you see him taking? I would love to see him against paul williams and winner gets pavlik at middleweight, also against taylor at super middleweight for unfinished business

Dan Rafael

  (1:52 PM)

The Winkster is supposed to fight on HBO in the first quarter of 2009. Against whom? Anyone's guess.

Rick, Marina, Ca

Every time I stay up late, I find it hard to resist watching such fights ( Margo-Cotto, all 3 Marquez-Vazquez, Cotto-Mosely, Marquez-Pacman both ) Those are just some of the ones I have recorded to my DVR.

Dan Rafael

  (1:53 PM)

Nice.

Nick (Toronto)

Danny Boy...doesn't Valuev have to man up and fight one of the Klitschko brothers next???

Dan Rafael

  (1:53 PM)

He'll fight in December and after that I would not be surprised if he faced Vitali in his first fight of '09.

Jamar (Charleston, WV)

What does Edison Miranda need to do in order to become a great fighter?

Dan Rafael

  (1:54 PM)

Get a skill transplant.

Luis: (Philadelphila PA):

How are ticket sales for the Roy-Joe fight?

Dan Rafael

  (1:54 PM)

Slow from what I hear because they are insanely overpriced.

Tom (Danbury,CT)

I recently re-watched Erik Morales vs. In Jin Chi. Not only is it a very underrated fight, but what happened to Chi after that?

Dan Rafael

  (1:55 PM)

That is a terrific fight. I was at that fight and to me it is one of Morales' best wins. Chi went on to win a belt at featherweight and have a few great fights (like Michael Brodie) but he retired a few years ago.

Mario (Bell Gardens, CA)

Here's a random idea: Edison Miranda vs. Ricardo Mayorga in a "Boxers Who Talk Smack But Usually Get Knocked Out" match....I would watch......

Dan Rafael

  (1:55 PM)

I would watch too. That would be fun.

kevin (va beach)

cotto said dlh vs pacquiao hurts boxing... your take?

Dan Rafael

  (1:57 PM)

He's probably just ticked that it's not him getting a $12 million or so payday to fight Oscar.

Tony (NYC)

Yeah tickets are way too high for Jones-Calzaghe, otherwise I'd go.

Dan Rafael

  (1:58 PM)

You are not the only one. I have seen many similar comments.

Shower Door

Aren't I a better mandatory challenger then Danilo Hausler?

Dan Rafael

  (1:59 PM)

Kessler faces Hassuler this weekend in a terrible mandatory. Thanks for reminding me.

Greg(Los Angeles)

Dan is Santos fighting in Japan in January?

Dan Rafael

  (1:59 PM)

That is something that is being explored, but it is not done as far as I know.

Jamar (Charleston, WV)

Do you believe Miranda would have a chance against Kessler?

Dan Rafael

  (2:00 PM)

None.

STEVE (NY)

is there any update on NATE CAMPBELL situation?

Dan Rafael

  (2:01 PM)

Unfortunately, no. I am keeping in touch with Nate's adviser and there is nothing new to report.

Jeff (bama)

The commentators had Shane blowing out Mayorga but the official scores were much closer. What did you have it at prior to 12:59 rd 12? Does it diminish Shane?

Dan Rafael

  (2:03 PM)

I had Shane wife, like 8-3 going into the 12th as I recall. Why does it diminish Shane that he was winning the fight and then knocked Mayorga dead?

John (ATL GA)

You Shane's WIFE? I hear Jin is a tough cookie.

Dan Rafael

  (2:05 PM)

Jin is a "tough cookie" but I like her! I've known her for a long time and I have always thought she was looking out for Shane's best interest, which is what she is supposed to do as his manager. She has learned a lot over the past several years.

Kevin (va beach)

Any hints as to potential sites for the Jan 9 FNF opener?

Dan Rafael

  (2:05 PM)

Nothing yet because the fight hasn't been set yet. Give it time.

Michael (Toronto)

DTM, any updates on Joe Mesi's quest for elected office?

Dan Rafael

  (2:06 PM)

As far as I know, he's running for New York State senate.

Tony(Tampa)

"Get a skill transplant". Best line of the chat.

Dan Rafael

  (2:06 PM)

LOL.

Jamar (Charleston, WV)

What's up with Demetrius Hopkins and what's next for him?

Dan Rafael

  (2:07 PM)

Arum told me just yesterday that DHop probably will fight on the Dec. 6 DLH-Pacquiao undercard but not as part of the ppv telecast.

Dan Rafael

  (2:08 PM)

OK, Fight Freaks, thanks for the chat. Make sure to read the notebook, blog, Jones diary, schedule and rankings and enjoy the fights this weekend. Talk to you next week. Peace.