Dan Rafael

  (12:00 PM)

Greetings Fight Freaks. We have a lot to discuss between last week's DLH-Pacquiao fight, last night's epic war between Adamek and Cunningham and a whole slate of fights this weekend -- Klitschko-Rahman, Holt-Torres and Toney-Oquendo. And don't forget to check out my blog from yesterday (with a new one coming either later today or tomorrow) and today's giant notebook. Let's get to it.

E (Omaha)

Oscar, from all the Freaks, haters or not, please retire! No one wants to see you take another beating like the one Manny gave you Saturday. Thanks for the memories Oscar!

Dan Rafael

  (12:01 PM)

Couldn't agree more.

Mark (Brooksville, Fla.)

Dan, I've seen both episodes of "the Contender." I liked the 1st episode but after the 2nd one it felt and looked like someone just wanted to rush through the thing. It all seemed kind of rehearshed and rehashed. Just curious on your thoughts?

Dan Rafael

  (12:01 PM)

Honestly, I have not had a chance to watch the first two episodes yet. I have them on my DVR and plan to watch them this weekend when I am finally home and finally have a little bit of a break.

Tomas(Tx)

Hey Dan! Thanks for the chat once again! Alright lets get down to it. Pacquiao totally destroyed De la Hoya, but I mean the way DLH looked, no matter what he says or anyone else, he was and looked weak. It wasnt the best idea to only gain 2 pounds the day after. Had he replenished himself up to the 150's the fight could of been more competitive. Thoughts?

Dan Rafael

  (12:03 PM)

I think Oscar way overtrained and the weight was a concern to me when I heard him at 145 and then only at 147 on the night of the fight. That said, I'm not sure if he was heavier going into the ring it would have made a difference. Manny was at his best, so if Oscar was a little heavier instead of being completely wiped out in eight rounds, maybe Oscar would have won a few rounds or even went 12 but Manny would still have won.

Mark (Brooksville, Fla.)

Dan, Isn't thr Kliitschko/Rahman fight more like a glorified sparring session than a title fight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:03 PM)

Well usually sparring sessions don't end in violent knockouts and since I expect Wlad to slaughter Rahman, it's not a sparring match.

Neil (MD)

Is Larry Merchant signed with HBO for 2009?

Dan Rafael

  (12:04 PM)

HBO likely will pick up Larry's two-year option, which would keep him with the network for a couple of more years.

Raymond (Baltimore)

I know you said nothing would suprise you, but color me suprised at the way Pac-Man thoroughly whooped Oscar last week. Is Pac-Man/Hatton truly the biggest fight that could be made?

Dan Rafael

  (12:04 PM)

I was a little surprised by the total domination, but not surprised at all that Manny won. At the moment, Pac-Hatton is a huge fight.

Courtney (Atlanta, GA)

Demetrius Hopkins was a great replacement on such short notice. How much of a chance do you give Hopkins against Holt?

Dan Rafael

  (12:05 PM)

It was a good replacement, I agree. The good thing was that DHop was already on the undercard and training. I give him an excellent shot. I think it's basically a 50-50 fight. Food for thought -- DHop beat Holt in the amateurs in the 1999 national Golden Gloves quarterfinals and DHop went on to win his weight class at the tournament.

Chief M......EYA Clw Florida

Mr. R., I think we can all agree that Oscar should retire. The question is what do you think? Within the next 18 months do you think he'll go for one last "hurrah" fight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:06 PM)

I think it's there is a real possibility that we will see a farewell bout from Oscar. Anything is possible.

Joe, NYC

joe calzaghe needs to shut up already; boxing is not a dying sport, and he shouldn't disrespect oscar de la hoya, who's had a great career. calzaghe will always be overrated in my opinion

Dan Rafael

  (12:06 PM)

Calzaghe is an idiot for the things he said.

E (Omaha)

D$$ - I think it was the 6th round I thought I saw Oscar almost turn his back as if he was ready to stop fighting mid round. Was I just seeing things, or did you notice that as well?

Dan Rafael

  (12:07 PM)

I saw him cowering and cringing every time he was hit. There was one shot in the seventh round I believe when Manny hit him with a shot and Oscar's foot came off the floor, a sure sign of a huge blow.

Brock (Belleville, IL)

D$ will the cruisers get some love now? Adamek and USS put on a show last night with a FOTY candidate. I think it will interesting where that division goes now.

Dan Rafael

  (12:08 PM)

I've loved that division for awhile. Mormeck and Bell made great fights, Adamek-Cunningham was sensational, Cunningham-Huck was terrific. It's a division of guys who would be heavyweights in the old days.

Daian, Miami

Dani, Dont hate me, I think you are in slump in your last 4 fights by going 0 for 4...Pavlick-Bhop/ Jones- Calgh/ hatton-Paulie and now Pac/Oscar...your predicted the the other way on all of those...we freaks take your prediction very seriously as you are our King Freak

Dan Rafael

  (12:08 PM)

We all have bad streaks.

Dave, NJ

Dan was that the worse undercard ever? At least the 3 fights under Calzaghe-Jones went the distance.

Dan Rafael

  (12:08 PM)

Yes, the DLH-Pac undercard totally stunk and is the worst one I have ever seen. Just total crap.

javier (Puerto Rico)

dan great card by versus last nigth I thougth the dolubleheader was as good as I seen all year do you agree with me.

Dan Rafael

  (12:09 PM)

Yes, card of the year, hands down. And it proves you don't need to spend millions. Versus probably spent around $250,000 or less for that show.

Aziz (Newcastle, UK)

Dan, any chance of Winky v Williams? Love the blogs and chats every week Dan, big respect!!

Dan Rafael

  (12:09 PM)

That is absolutely a fight that could happen when Winky comes back next year.

Tim (CA)

Are Cunningham and Adamek gonna have a rematch right away?

Dan Rafael

  (12:10 PM)

Nothing has been determined but I would hope they do it again and I would hope a network would pay them well for it. I said all along when that card was made that it could have easily been on Showtime or on HBO as a Boxing After Dark.

Mark (Chicago)

Does Cunningham hit like a girl, does Adamek have an absolutely incredible chin, or was it a little of both? Great fight by the way. Haven't watched many cruisers but Adamek seems like a guy I'd root for. Same with Cunningham.

Dan Rafael

  (12:10 PM)

Probably a little of both, but Adamek has a terrific chin. I was ringside for his first fight with Paul Briggs and he took massive shots and didn't move.

Steve, Sac, Ca

Dano, Adamek is the Ring champon now at cruiser correct? Didn't hear anything about it last night

Dan Rafael

  (12:11 PM)

Versus shamefully ignored it but that bout was for the vacant Ring title, which Haye gave up when he moved up. But Cunningham and Adamek were ranked 1-2 and, therefore, the fight was for the vacant belt.

Rick, Marina, Ca

Well Pacman surely locked up fighter of the year honors, for me.

Dan Rafael

  (12:11 PM)

You and a lot of others.

Scott (Los Angeles, CA)

Which fight will HBO show first on Saturday's broadcast?

Dan Rafael

  (12:12 PM)

HBO will open the telecast Saturday with the Klitschko-Rahman fight and then air the DLH-Pacquiao replay.

Andres (Puerto Rico)

dan is there any truth that the margarito vs cotto fight will go on regardles of what happened in the mosley fight just as long as cotto wins.

Dan Rafael

  (12:12 PM)

Arum says win or lose, Margarito-Cotto will go on as planned.

Walter (Albuquerque, NM)

You said in your blog that Hoya/Chavez Jr should happen. Why not Hoya/Trinidad? Granted it will be in no means be a great fight, but it'll be a lot more meaningful than fighting Jr.

Dan Rafael

  (12:13 PM)

I didn't say it SHOULD happen. I said I could see it happening if Oscar decided to fight again. Big difference. Don't put words in my mouth. DLH-Tito won't happen because of weight issues.

Steve, Sac, Ca

Dano, with Steward busy training Wlad tomorrow, who will be with Lampley?

Dan Rafael

  (12:14 PM)

Tomorrow is supposed to be Lampley, Lennox and Max.

Jack (CA)

Over/Under 5 Rounds for Rahman? Does it help Vladimir that Manny has had Lennox who fought Rahman twice?

Dan Rafael

  (12:14 PM)

I'm taking the under.

Corey from(WestWick)

Verus scored a gem last night. That was a great fight. Cunningham down three times but had the drive to keep coming.Adamek taking a lot of shots but not budging. Tomasz looked like the better man last night. this one has rematch written all over it.

Dani, Miami

When are you ranking Gamboa in your top 10 FW?

Dan Rafael

  (12:15 PM)

When he deserves to be there, which is not yet.

Mark (Chicago)

The Ring is catching some flak for putting Manny in the top 5 at 147. Maybe premature but other than AM, PW and Clottey who are just too big, am I crazy to think he could compete in that division? And I am certainly fine with the answer yes, I am crazy. I trust your judgment more than mine, Dan.

Dan Rafael

  (12:17 PM)

It's a tough call. I understand where Ring is coming from, but I disagree. Manny is not going to fight at 147 from what he says. I moved him up one spot at lightweight but it's basically a place holder until he fights at 140. What I don't like is a fighter being ranked in two divisions at once like Ring did with Pacquiao. In today's age, fighters don't really campaign at two divisions since they fight only 2-3 times a year. But the most important thing is that Manny is No. 1 p4p, which is bigger than where he is in any division.

josephrodrigue5163, San Antonio

Dan, couldn't Goossen find a better replacement for Thompson than Oquendo for James Toney? I saw him here a couple of years ago against Holyfield and he was just horrible?

Dan Rafael

  (12:18 PM)

Frankly, on a week's notice that is about as good a replacement as you will get in a heavyweight fight on short notice. You have a better suggestion?

Charles (Philly)

Have you ever seen a main event fighter look less excited at a presser than Rahman did the other day?

Dan Rafael

  (12:19 PM)

Yes, I forget right now who it was but I actually saw a main event fighter asleep once.

Joe, NYC

Any news on who Clottey will fight next? Would love to see a fight between him and Paul Williams

Dan Rafael

  (12:19 PM)

Probably a mandatory with Kermit Cintron.

Brandon (Florida)

Dan I just can't see Oscar beating Manny, even in his prime. He wouldn't have gotten whooped but I still would take Manny by a decision if both were in their prime. What do you thinK?

Dan Rafael

  (12:20 PM)

I think you're wrong and I say that having just recently watched DLH-Quartey.

Joe, RI

Not to pile on Calzaghe BUT, should a guy who spent 11 frickin years defending a WBO 168lb belt exclusively in his home town, be complaining about the fact that there are too many divisions with belts held by sheltered fighters?

Dan Rafael

  (12:21 PM)

Exactly. Screw Calzaghe.

Brian (NY)

Dan, looking back did we not pay enough attention to the Steve Forbes fight? He did some real damage to Oscar's face, and Oscar never really hurt him much. And obviously, Manny's a much higher quality fighter.

Dan Rafael

  (12:22 PM)

One of the main reasons I thought DLH-Pac was a legit fight, despite the ravings of some idiots, was because of the fact that Forbes did damage as a non-puncher. Now I didn't pick Manny to win, but I sure was right about him having a serious shot to win. That is exactly why I was so intrigued by the match in the first place.

Rui (Nutley, NJ)

Would Mayweather/Pacquiao be the only 1 million PPV fight left in boxing assuming Oscar retires?

Dan Rafael

  (12:23 PM)

At the moment, it's the only one I can see out there that could draw that kind of number.

Matt (Philly)

So what does this say about how great Juan Manuel Marquez is if he took Pacman to a SD that I thought he actually won?

Dan Rafael

  (12:23 PM)

I was at both Pac-JMM fights and I had JMM winning both of them. He's obviously a great fighter.

Victor (SLC, UT)

Did you notice DLH sucking on ice while he was walking into the ring?

Dan Rafael

  (12:24 PM)

Yes, that's not the first time I have seen him do that.

Mike (NY)

I find it funny that Oscar has fought the 5 richest non heavyweight title fights, and lost every one of them. (Mayweather, Pacquiao, Trinidad, Mosley 1, and Hopkins)

Dan Rafael

  (12:25 PM)

Your a little off on your list of fights being the top 5 richest non heavyweight fights. You mean Mosley-DLH 2. Also, DLH-Vargas should be on that list and he won that one, same with DLH-Mayorga, which did more than 900,000 on ppv.

Jonathan Castle Rock, CO

Dan, what's next for Jermain Taylor?

Dan Rafael

  (12:26 PM)

He's Froch's mandatory, so maybe that will happen if he can't lure Calzaghe into a fight.

Matthew, TX

Who do DLH fans extend thanks to for not allowing Margarito in the ring vs. Oscar?

Dan Rafael

  (12:27 PM)

Probably.

Brandon (Florida)

If Mayweather does decide to fight Manny, it would be for the true pound for pound king of the sport. How long has it been since we seen the top 2 fighters in the WORLD go at it. Mayweather needs to come from under that retirement rock and make that fight happen ASAP!

Dan Rafael

  (12:29 PM)

It's happened before. Off the top of my head, when Whitaker and Chavez fought they were considered the two best.

Nick (Toronto)

Hey Dan, Do you think Wlad will duplicate the Lewis/Rahman 2 ending? That knock-out was awesome.

Dan Rafael

  (12:29 PM)

It could be a crushing KO.

mrmarksmith

Dan, Great fights on Versus last night. Do you think "Marc from Philly" jumped off a tall building after watching Cunningham lose to Adanek?

Dan Rafael

  (12:30 PM)

I hope not.

Kelby (omaha)

If pacman/hatton is made... do you think it will be in the U.S.?

Dan Rafael

  (12:31 PM)

That's an interesting question I have thought about. It could be but maybe it would be in the UK. Those are the only two places it could be.

Los, Washington DC

Dan, great fight last night but was it me or did it seem like the comentators favored Ademek, granted I think the fight could have gone either way even with the 3 knockdowns but it just seemed as though they were givin Ademek rounds that I thought Cunningham won!

Dan Rafael

  (12:31 PM)

It was a close fight but I thought Adamek clearly deserved a close win.

Tom (Danbury,CT)

Is there any location yet for Berto/Collazo?

Dan Rafael

  (12:32 PM)

Not just yet but it could be in either Vancouver or in Vegas.

Steve San Jose. CA

At ringside could you see up Kisha Cole's skirt?

Dan Rafael

  (12:32 PM)

No.

Manny Pacquiao, General Santos City

If I beat Hatton and Mayweather, can I technically be considered the first seven-division champion?

Dan Rafael

  (12:32 PM)

No because you will not have won the welterweight title.

Lennox Lewis

Do I definitely get props on being elected to the Hall of Fame?

Dan Rafael

  (12:33 PM)

Absolutely.

Frank(Phx)

Dan, Great Blog! I was thinking the same thing at the end of the Oscar fight that if he were to fight one last time as a farewell fight then it could be against Chavez Jr. That would do easily over a million PPV buys i think. Or I was thinking what about a fight against Trinidad? A rematch of two shot fighters could still draw a lot of PPV buys.

Gerardo (Tempe, AZ)

So now that Holt is fighting DHop, is T. Bradley still fighting the winner? Bradley needs to keep fighting!

Dan Rafael

  (12:33 PM)

Yes, that is the deal. And Bradley will be ringside tomorrow night for the fight.

Rafael miami

Dan does the notebook comes out this friday ornot,cause wedidnt have notebook last week

Dan Rafael

  (12:34 PM)

There will be a notebook today. Not sure why it's not up yet.

mike costa rica

dan cotto fight in feb. atlantic city or new york??

Dan Rafael

  (12:34 PM)

TBA. One or the other.

Madison Square Garden (Joe Louis Plaza)

Why did I read I was hosting the Berto-Collazo fight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:35 PM)

At one time, the MSG Theater was going to host the fight, but not any more.

Taylor (Salt Lake City, UT)

Dan, I've got to say if Pacman and PBF did fight...with the long layoff and all, I've got to give the edge to Pacman. I know its eartly, but would you agree with this?

Dan Rafael

  (12:35 PM)

I think Floyd will have his hands full if that fight ever happens.

Nick (NYC)

Dan - in my opinion Manny's win just shows how special Erik Morales really was - erik beat him hands down in their first fight -

Dan Rafael

  (12:36 PM)

Nobody says Morales isn't special. He was a great fighter in his time and that win over Pacquiao was his last great performance in a HOF career.

Matt (NY)

How would you compare this past weekend's buzz in vegas against prior big fights due to the sputtering economy? Was Vegas clearly less packed than you've seen in recent times?

Dan Rafael

  (12:36 PM)

It was a little slower than I have seen it. But on fight night you would never have known there were economic problems.

Steve, Sac, Ca

Dano, what is more of a joke, Valuev/Holy on PPV or Haye saying he'd KO the Klitschko brothers?

Dan Rafael

  (12:37 PM)

Both.

Terrell Owens

I think you and ESPN are conspiring not to post my questions.

Dan Rafael

  (12:37 PM)

It's possible.

Steve San Jose, CA

Where you surprise on the number of buys for pacman and Oscar?

Dan Rafael

  (12:38 PM)

Not at all.

Rick,Marina, Ca

How about a Arreola-Haye fight, winner gets his title shot at Wlad?

Dan Rafael

  (12:39 PM)

Won't happen. Why would they risk against each other when both can get a fight with Klitschko?

Brian (DC)

Is it safe to say we've seen the last of Sergio Medina on a major card?

Dan Rafael

  (12:39 PM)

One can assume so.

Jim (NY)

What is the 1st big PPV of 2009 in Boxing?

Dan Rafael

  (12:39 PM)

There are none scheduled right now and I don't think we'll see any HBO PPVs in the first quarter.

Gerardo (Tempe, AZ)

Rafa, was Victor Ortiz forgotten in the 140lb rankings, or is he simply not there yet?

Dan Rafael

  (12:40 PM)

Not forgotten at all. Victor is a terrific young fighter and on the cusp of being in the top 10, just not there yet.

Ryan (St. Pete)

Thank you Versus for a great card last night -- including a VERY GOOD undercard fight!!! Some of the other networks and promotion companies should pay attention.

Rich (NYC)

So is Marc from Philly on suicide watch after last night?

Dan Rafael

  (12:40 PM)

It's entirely possible.

Rick, Marina, Ca

Will you be at the staples for Margo-Mosely? Tickets go on sale today, Im gon be there fo sure.

Dan Rafael

  (12:42 PM)

I plan to be there and, yes, tickets go on sale today.

Dan Rafael

  (12:43 PM)

By the way Freaks -- make sure to tune into SportsCenter at about 2:40 ET. I'll be on talking boxing.

Ed Portland

if FM Jr doesnt comeback, what do you think about Pac fighting the winner between cotto/margarito2. After he ko's hatton

Dan Rafael

  (12:44 PM)

No chance. Arum said many times he wouldn't let Pac fight Margarito and I don't blame him. Margarito is a massive welterweight.

Dan Rafael

  (12:44 PM)

More important, even if Arum was cool with the fight, Freddie Roach would never let it happen.

JJD (Seattle)

True story: Last Friday right as the 24/7 marathon was starting, my wife and almost 6-year old daughter got home from Xmas shopping. For ten minutes they didn't move from watching the TV, and eventually they watched all four eps in a row (though my daughter fell asleep after three). I ended up getting the fight at home instead of going to a bar, and my daughter CRIED when Oscar lost. Now, she can't wait for the next "show where the boxers train". 24/7: Making New Freaks One Show at a Time.

Dan Rafael

  (12:46 PM)

That is great!!

Pribs Bethlehem, PA

Margarito looked huge at the Oscar fight. I don't remember him ballooning up that much between fights before.

Dan Rafael

  (12:47 PM)

He was quite hefty, prompting some of us in the media to alter his nickname from the Tijuana Tornado to the Tijuana Tamale.

Justin (Las Vegas, NV)

I dont see anyway PBF does not come back. If he can make 10-15 mill to fight pac man....I dont think many guys could turn that down

Dan Rafael

  (12:48 PM)

Nobody, and I mean nobody, that I know of thinks Mayweather will stay retired. It is merely a matter of time.

Donald (New Orleans)

Do you see DLH possibly facing Forest? Wouldn't that be a proper swan song? At least Forest holds the belts.

Dan Rafael

  (12:48 PM)

No chance.

Gilroy, CA

When will Robert Guerrero return to the ring.

Dan Rafael

  (12:49 PM)

After his arbitration case is decided.

david atlanta [via mobile]

has the Jan 17 BAD undercard been finalized?

Dan Rafael

  (12:50 PM)

Yes, it's Sergio Martinez vs. Joe Greene.

Michael (Toronto)

Nice little week for boxing with the big Vegas event, Adamek-Cunningham and the WAR between Froch and Pascal. Were you surprised as to how much guts Pascal showed?

Dan Rafael

  (12:51 PM)

I'm never surprised when a fighter shows heart and Pascal did. I watched it on the Internet and it was a terrific fight. Here's a little scoop for you that is in today's notebook: Fox Sports Net is going to show Pascal-Froch on delay in a week or two, the first of a once-a-month tape delay of an overseas title fight.

Brendan (Plymouth, MA)

Dan, Any reason to believe Hatton has any shot against Pac-man? It'll do big $, but I thik it will be less competative than the ODL fight.

Dan Rafael

  (12:52 PM)

"It'll do big $." You answered it yourself.

Pat (NY)

Dan any news on JMM? Is the Diaz fight happening or is it someone else?

Dan Rafael

  (12:53 PM)

They are still working on that fight, perhaps for as soon as Feb. 28, and I am cautiously optimistic. It's a terrific fight and I hope Golden Boy and HBO can work out the money.

Charles (Philly)

Are you surprised that Joe Greene is being matched that tough?

Dan Rafael

  (12:53 PM)

Yes. I think he's in way over his head.

Eric (Columbus, OH)

Notebook's up!

The Train (Wakefield, MA)

Dano-Mite!!! I love your work, sitting here at home chatting in my panties...

Dan Rafael

  (12:56 PM)

Lovely image.

Ryan, Willowbrook

What up Dan!? I saw on the schedule that Devon Alexander was on the Versus card last night but there was no mention of him at all. Did he fight and if so did he win?

Dan Rafael

  (12:58 PM)

Yes, he scored two knockdowns in the second round and stopped Chris Fernandez on his stool after the third.

Kidd Chicago,Il

Any truth to the rumor that izzy vazquez is having major health problems? which could lead to his retirement.

Dan Rafael

  (12:58 PM)

He has had problems with his eye and is recovering from surgery.

STEVE (NY)

CABALLERO vs. GAMBOA? are Gamboa's people that crazy? He would get destroyed at this point of his career!

Dan Rafael

  (12:59 PM)

Gamboa's people are a little nutty, yes. It is an interesting fight given Gamboa's speed and that he a heavier fighter, but Caballero is a rough guy and certainly will have no problem competing at featherweight with his height.

Ortiz, California

Any word on the undercard for SSM-Margo? Is HBO just gonna do SSM-Margo or will it be a doubleheader?

Dan Rafael

  (12:59 PM)

Only fight on the telecast.

Rui (Nutley, NJ)

You got to love Caballero. The man shows no fear. He calls out Vazquez, Marquez, Juanma, and now could fight Gamboa in his next fight.

Zach MPLS

Dan, I assume u will keep us posted on when and what fights fsn will be showing?

Dan Rafael

  (1:00 PM)

You know it.

bill (pgh)

surpised by Showtime turning down Miranda and Green as opponents for Ward?

Dan Rafael

  (1:00 PM)

Extremely.

Al (Denver)

Dan, thanks so much for putting that moron Steven Smith straight! I hate people in the media who know nothing about the sport, voice their ignorant opinions...ie., oscar being 'twice the size' of manny and when he said that this tarnishes oscars legacy in a MAJOR way...it was clear as day, that he had no clue what he was talking about...thanks again for putting that moron straight!!!

Dan Rafael

  (1:01 PM)

Stephen A. is a great boxing fan and was taking the opposite point of view. Give him a break. He's a good dude and I enjoy working with him. What would be the fun if we agreed on everything?

Steve San Jose, CA

What going on with Nate Campbell? I haven't heard anything about him

Dan Rafael

  (1:02 PM)

He's fighting his mandatory, Ali Funeka, on HBO Feb. 14. Someone needs to consult the fight schedule on ESPN.com or risk lifetime banishment.

Tom (Danbury,CT)

Champion in Recess? The WBA never fails to make me laugh.

Dan Rafael

  (1:03 PM)

Same here. When I hear the term "champion in recess" it makes me think that the guy is out on the playground going down a slide at playtime.

Mike, New York

Hi Dan...I could not believe the paucity of talent on the undercard for the Pacquiao fight...both promottional companies did boxing a disservice.

Dan Rafael

  (1:04 PM)

I agree. It stunk.

Ryan (Richmond)

Dan, if a guy gets battered for 2 minutes and 50 seconds in a round, but ends up knocking the other fellow down, is it a 10-8 round?

Dan Rafael

  (1:05 PM)

No. I had that scoring issue last night in the fourth round of Cunningham-Adamek. Cunningham beat the crap out of him severely to the point where it could have been a 10-8 for Cunningham without a knockdown but Adamek came back and dropped him in the final few seconds. Very hard round to score, but I went with 10-9 for Adamek.

Rui (Nutley, NJ)

Caballero against Gamboa? Jeez... risky fight by both men.

Dan Rafael

  (1:06 PM)

Isn't that what we want to see as fans?

Steve, Sac, Ca

Dano, buy or sell. Haye will fight either Wlad or Vitali in the summer of 09

Dan Rafael

  (1:07 PM)

Buy.

francisco (Puerto Rico)

dan when will daniel santos fight again.

Dan Rafael

  (1:07 PM)

Maybe February in Japan.

Rick, Marina, Ca

I think they need to make Juanma-Cabrello fight winner fights Vazquez. I heard cabrello is talking alot of trash to Juanma about only fighting stiffs and old men.

Dan Rafael

  (1:08 PM)

Caballero will take that fight in a heartbeat. The Lopez people haven't been as excited. I know Caballero-Lopez is fight Showtime is interested in.

mike costa rica

dan, how did buddy mcgirt get in rahman's corner for this fight??

Dan Rafael

  (1:10 PM)

Because Rockhead fired Marshall Kauffman a few days ago for idiotic reasons.

Anthony (Queens, NY)

Dan, when FSN airs these foreign tape-delay fights, will the commentary be from that night, or will FSN commentate as the tape delay airs?

Dan Rafael

  (1:10 PM)

It will depend on the fight. For example, with Froch-Pascal, my understanding is that the intention is to use the original ITV call of the fight.

Steve (Philly)

isn't JOE GREENE too "green" to challenge Martinez?

Dan Rafael

  (1:11 PM)

Yes, I think he is.

Jason (Half Moon, NY)

What do trainers usually get paid? Is it a flat number of a % of their fighter's gross?

Dan Rafael

  (1:11 PM)

Every deal is different. Some are a flat fee, some are a percentage. For example, Freddie got a flat fee to train Manny for Oscar, but it was a lot of dough.

Aaron (Hartford)

You think Froch can make some headway in the US..that was a great fight vs Paschal

Dan Rafael

  (1:12 PM)

Maybe after some more people see it on FSN.

D Mack ( Greensboro, NC )

Dan, what do you think about Chad Dawson vs Jermain Taylor with the winner scoring the opportunity to fight Calzaghe?

Dan Rafael

  (1:12 PM)

It's an unlikely fight I think. Jermain can fight for a 168 title vs. Froch. He doesn't need Dawson.

Daian, Miami

can we all say that Manny is the best fighter of the last 20 years

Dan Rafael

  (1:13 PM)

Let's not get carried away.

Steve, Sac, Ca

Dano, be sure to say Screw Calzaghe on Sportscenter for all us freaks

Dan Rafael

  (1:13 PM)

I'll try to work it in.

Bob Arum

Told you getting a Dem in the White House would help our PPV numbers.

Joe (CA)

There was a good showing at Mandalay Bay for close circuit telecast...couldnt find tix at reasonable price on day of the fight so spent $40 to watch at the Bay...not the craziest atmosphere but entertaining.

Dan Rafael

  (1:14 PM)

Glad you had fun.

Marc (Philly)

Steve "USS" Cunningham will rise again and conquer the Cruiserweight division again in 2009!

Dan Rafael

  (1:15 PM)

There ya go -- he didn't do anything drastic after last night's loss.

Dave, NJ

Why couldn't HBO show Garcia or any of the under under-card fights instead of having analysis and interviews for more than an hour?

Dan Rafael

  (1:16 PM)

An excellent question I wish I had an answer for. I am all for some build up to the big fight, but the HBO PPV telecast last week went way, way overboard. I would have loved to see highlights or even selected rounds of the Garcia fight.

Jason(BHills,CA)

AAAAAAAAAAAH, the Love Child.

Dan Rafael

  (1:17 PM)

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, the Love Child. Don't be stealing my material.

Charles (Philly)

DTM, why can't we get fights like Agbeko-Gonzalez on PPV undercards? I'd much rather see an underrated title fight than watching a "name" guy blow out a tomato can/dog.

Dan Rafael

  (1:17 PM)

Agreed.

David(TX)

Why the hell is Berto fighting in Vancouver?

Dan Rafael

  (1:18 PM)

It's not a done deal but the folks who run the arena up there want to have the card. Nothing wrong with that.

Aaron (Dighton, MA)

where does Cunnigham/Adamak rate in the Fight of the Year discussion?

Dan Rafael

  (1:18 PM)

It's in the conversation for being the winner.

STEVE (NY)

is LOVE CHILD slowly walking into ROCKY JUAREZ area of "oh so close to championship but not quite?"

Dan Rafael

  (1:19 PM)

Why because he lost two fights, one when he was 21 years old to a very solid technical fighter and a title bout that was competitive and in the other guy's country?

Chris (Kalamazoo, MI)

If Manny wouldn't have put on such a stunning, dominating performance, that whole card last week would have been a disaster. I've never seen three undercards that were so terrible. Thoughts?

Dan Rafael

  (1:20 PM)

What you said.

STEVE (NY)

I don't know about you, but AGBEKO vs GONZALEZ reminded me of CHI vs MORALES where challenger was game and hung in there toe to toe but didn't quite win.

Dan Rafael

  (1:21 PM)

Good analogy. Agbeko-Gonzalez is destined to be one of those underrated fights a lot of folks forget about.

Joe (CA)

Were you shocked as I was Tony Weeks didnt stop the fight in the 7th round?

Dan Rafael

  (1:22 PM)

I thought it could have been and I was sititng next to Kevin Iole from Yahoo and we were both thinking it should be stopped then.

Diego (CA)

Who is your prosepect of the year?

Dan Rafael

  (1:23 PM)

Why would I give it away now?

Pribs Bethlehem, PA

Just got my Mosley-Margarito tix. Kudos to Top Rank and Golden Boy for making the tickets affordable!

Dan Rafael

  (1:24 PM)

You are right. I give them a lot of credit for pricing this fight with the true fans in mind. I expect a sellout at Staples because the tickets are very affordable for a terrific fight.

Courtney Houston (Atlanta, GA)

Calzaghe is just bitter at his dismal PPV numbers against a washed up Roy Jones; as well as the fact that he's still pretty much an unkown to the majority of Americans.

Dan Rafael

  (1:25 PM)

Well said. Who cares what he says anyway?

Pribs Bethlehem, PA

Where do you draw the line between prospect / contender? Does a guy like Angulo qualify as a "prospect"?

Dan Rafael

  (1:26 PM)

Yes, Angulo would qualify. It's not a black and white thing. But basically guys who are considered prospects in my book are generally in there 20s, not yet main event fighters or regular 12-round fighters, haven't been pro for more than say 4-5 years, etc... Not an exact science though.

david atlanta [via mobile]

please tell us that Montiel-Donaire will be on Showtime in March

Dan Rafael

  (1:26 PM)

That is the plan.

Nick (Harrisburg, PA)

Dan i pray you post this...I dont know if you remember, but during ur chat last week before the fight i was possibly the only (non-pacquiao phillipino fanatic) who unbiasedly predicted pacquiao wins by TKO bc if he blinding speed and Oscars failing reflexes...my next prediction...Pacquiao KOs Hatton en route to a HUGE fight with PBF

Corey from(WestWick)

I was never so happy to be wrong in my entire life. Then I was last saturday when I wanted Manny to win but thought Oscar would. Paquaio's is the new Duran hands down

Tomas(Tx)

I have a serious case of insomnia. Should the Toney/Oquendo fight finally cure me?

Dan Rafael

  (1:28 PM)

There's an excellent chace.

Da Freaks

"Screw Calzaghe"

David (Hercules, CA)

Will the Klitschko fight be PPV in Germany, or do they get them on free tv there? Curious how the money is primarily generated for the Klitschko brothers that they continue to stay in Germany most of the time.

Dan Rafael

  (1:29 PM)

It's on free network TV there (a German station like our ABC here). The TV networks pay big money for the fights, the foreign rights generate a lot of money and the arena will be sold out.

Question

Pacquiao Top 5 P4P all time?

Dan Rafael

  (1:29 PM)

Settle down.

Rui (Nutley, NJ)

I just wanted to say that it's a shame there were so few Cunningham supporters at the fight last night. It must've been 95% Adamek fans even though Newark is a couple hours away from Philly.

Dan Rafael

  (1:30 PM)

But Adamek lives in Jersey City and the Polish fans love him and support him.

Jim (DC)

Is David Tua ever gonna have a meaningful fight again that puts him in the top 10?

Dan Rafael

  (1:30 PM)

I doubt it. He doesn't seem like he wants to fight.

Freddie Roach

To everyone...I told you so.

Charles (Philly)

Would you prefer to see Pac-Man face Hatton first, or go directly to F**** M*********?

Dan Rafael

  (1:32 PM)

I'd love to see Mayweather right away but the more likely scenario would be Hatton first.

Josh(Newport Beach)

Do you know if they will replay the Versus card from last night?

Dan Rafael

  (1:32 PM)

Yes, there will be replays, just check your cable guide. Versus always replays its fights.

John (Providence, RI)

Does Mayweather have the stones to accept a fight with Pacman? I do not believe he would risk blemishing his undefeated record since he has been so careful in selecting big name opponenets toward the backside of their careers.

Dan Rafael

  (1:33 PM)

I can't read Floyd's mind. Hopefully, he will decide to fight.

Mike (San Diego, CA)

Dan, I'm glad to see Andre Ward is healthy again and fighting this weekend. Assuming he wins tomorrow, how long before you think he becomes top 10 in the division.

Dan Rafael

  (1:33 PM)

One or two solid wins away. I think that will happen in 2009.

Steve Cunningham

I'm not going to lie, I was distracted by some weirdo following me up to Newark all the way from Philly.

Kev Fairfax, VA

Since you've been getting so much TV time over the last two weeks we need to step our name game up. Therefore you will be known as Sir Dan Rafael of ESPN.Com. So Sir Dan, Have you been getting any feedback from the Money May camp about a Pac-Man showdown?

Dan Rafael

  (1:35 PM)

I have left a few messages with members of the Mayweather camp and have not had my calls returned.

Jim (LA)

Can Manny be a guy who consistently gets 750,000+ PPV buys for nearly any fight?

Dan Rafael

  (1:35 PM)

Not sure about that level of a number. It depends on his opponents too. But I think he can be the guy for the next couple of years that the PPV boxing industry rides with.

Chris (Los Angeles CA)

D$ - Boy, if the number of people that watched Pacquiao-DLH actually tuned in to watch Cunningham-Adamek go to war then boxing would be better off right now.

Mike (San Diego, CA)

Dan, what was your favorite part of last week's pre-fight hype? It seems like the media room was really buzzing.

Dan Rafael

  (1:37 PM)

The media room always buzzing for a big fight.

Eric(MANDELAY BAY)

Did Oscar lend you money to play at the casinos in vegas?

Dan Rafael

  (1:37 PM)

No.

Steve (DC)

Just wanna let you know as DC area guy, watched the DLH at Buffalo Billiards near Dupont. got there at 730 for a prime seat, by fight time the place was wall to wall with screaming fans...awesome atmosphere

Mike (San Diego, CA)

Dan, what brand of DVD player/recorder do you use? I just got a Sony and it blocks me from burning any HBO content I've recorded and says it is "copyrighted"

Dan Rafael

  (1:38 PM)

I live and die with my two Panasonic DVD recorder/VCR combo machines. I've had them both since 2005 and I love them.

Nico: (Stockton, Ca)

Mayweather vs Pacman is a joke, please don't tell me you like this fight.If so can you give me one good reason why mayweather would not beat him down.And don't bring up the oscar fight cause that was not the oscar I know.

Dan Rafael

  (1:39 PM)

Dude, you are a freaking moron. Didn'y you watch what Pacquiao did to Oscar, or, frankly, what he's been doing the past few years? Guess what? You're banned.

Banishment

me hungry

Dan Rafael

  (1:39 PM)

Consider yourself fed.

Dave, NJ

Nico from Stockton, CA is a joke.

Jose M La Habra CA

Dan, Pacquiao's right hand is now a thing of beauty. Remarkable how it was non existent in Morales v Pac 1 to now being a serious weapon.

Dan Rafael

  (1:40 PM)

You are absolutely right.

Steve, Sac, Ca

Dano, trust me, Stockton isn't too far from Sac. The drugs are top notch there

jason (atlanta)

im sure youve gotten this same message a ton, but that's the first I've heard Cunningham speak. He is a true professional and apparently a great guy. I hope this fight only propels him to more success. Definitely the kind of guy you want to root for.

Dan Rafael

  (1:40 PM)

Steve is a very cool and down to earth guy. I've talked to him a number of times over the years and it is just a shame that his promoter, Don King, did nothing to actually promote him.

Manny Pacquiao

hey nico dont hate me. i love you

Frank(Phx)

Lol! Dan I love your classic lines of "Settle Down" and "Lets not get carried away" to some people who are just getting WAY too crazy in here.

Dan Rafael

  (1:41 PM)

It happens all the time when a guy wins a big fight or loses a big fight. I like to maintain an even keel.

Big Al, East Los Angeles, CA

Hey big Dan, do you think Pac will ever fight Juan Manuel Marquez again and if so, do you think it will be in 2009?

Dan Rafael

  (1:42 PM)

I certainly hope that before they're all done they fight for a third time. If Pacman fights Hatton and Mayweather in 2009, I doubt he will have a third fight, so I think if they fight again it could be off into the future. I hope not too far.

Kirk, Phila.

I agree with your blog completely. I can't think of any better way for De La Hoya to go out than for him to fight Chavez Jr. as his farewell especially after how he bloodied Sr. toward the end of his career. It offers a great opportunity for Jr. for revenge and would be very significant to Mexican fans.

Buraot Floral Park, NY

Howcome a lot of HBO bigwigs did not attend the post fight press conference of Pacquaio DLH fight? Are they disappointed that Hoya lost that fight?

Dan Rafael

  (1:44 PM)

I have no idea what you are talking about. They were ALL there -- Ross Greenburg, Kery Davis, Mark Taffet, the PR team, you name it. Where do you get such crazy ideas?

Darin (DC)

Do you think PBF would need a tune up before fighting a guy like Pacman at 147?

Dan Rafael

  (1:45 PM)

Not at all.

Tito, LA

Dano, did you shake it at the pacman celebration party after the fight?

Dan Rafael

  (1:46 PM)

No, I went out with the boys.

Rod (OK)

Are you pumped about Chagaev's come back?

Dan Rafael

  (1:47 PM)

I'm as pumped up for his comeback as I was for my dentist appointment yesterday.

Gerardo (Tempe, AZ)

I'm assuming you'll be buying the Holyfield-Valuev fight. My question is, will you be doing it beacuse you are a fight freak, or strictly because it is your job?

Dan Rafael

  (1:48 PM)

On that one it is because it is my job. I have no interest in watching Evander get smoked in a fight that shouldn't be happening.

Riddick Bowe

Are you pumped for Bowe's comback?

Dan Rafael

  (1:49 PM)

I'm even less pumped for that than Chagaev's fight and my dentist appointment combined.

Andrew (Nashville TN)

Who has more integrity: the governor of Illinois or the head of the WBC?

Dan Rafael

  (1:49 PM)

Probably the governor.

blake (Wal-Mart HQ Arkansas)

carl froch is saying he deserves a 70/30 split vs Taylor. Do you see that happening?

Dan Rafael

  (1:49 PM)

He's on crack.

mike costa rica

dan,out with the boys, anywhere good?

Dan Rafael

  (1:50 PM)

What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.

JJD (Seattle)

While I have to admit a DLH/Chavez Jr-fight is intriguing (though not necessarily in a good way), I also have to say that one thing I said during Saturday's fight is "now Oscar knows how Chavez felt." Ouch.

Mayo, New Jersey

20 min train ride = $4.25 ringside seats = $303 Watching a potential FOTY in front of a packed and crezed house = priceless Crusierweight is the new heavyweight. These guys come to fight and are in shape.

Kyle (Indianapolis)

Which event was bigger, DLH-PBF or Pac as far as hype and buzz around Vegas?

Dan Rafael

  (1:52 PM)

Mayweather without question.

Mike Tyson:

Where am I right now?

Dan Rafael

  (1:52 PM)

Bolivian?

Kevin, NY

Any word on John Duddy?

Dan Rafael

  (1:52 PM)

He's close to a settlement with his former handlers.

Jeff (Redondo Beach, CA)

How come you took out the ***** when talking about F**yd today?

Dan Rafael

  (1:53 PM)

Because it's a legitimate topic today rather than the usual nonsense.

Pribs Bethlehem, PA

"24/7" Episode 5: Oscar approaches the Staples Center on his bike, and fires his helmet off his statue!

Dan Rafael

  (1:53 PM)

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

Dan Rafael

  (1:53 PM)

That was hilarious.

Rui (Nutley, NJ)

Do you see Golden Boy Promotions going downhill within the next few years with the retirement of guys like De La Hoya, Mosley, and Hopkins?

Dan Rafael

  (1:54 PM)

All depends on if they have some of their young fighters pan out.

James (Highlands, New Jersey)

If Gamboa-Caballero fight gets made, does that affect Gamboa fighting on the season premiere of Friday Night Fights?

Dan Rafael

  (1:55 PM)

No, he would fight that fight and then face Caballero next if he wins. But the Caballero fight is not yet made, just possible.

jack, fort collins

i'm just curious if you know what delvin rodriguez is up to. he looked great in his last fight, but unfortunately he almost killed the guy he was fighting. has this had some lasting effect, do you think?

Dan Rafael

  (1:55 PM)

Delvin recently had a draw in South Africa in a title eliminator with Hlatshawayo and there is discussion about a rematch, possibly on ESPN2 in early 2009.

Chris (Kalamazoo,MI)

"Bolivian"!!!!!!!!!! Oh man, I almost peed myself. Thanks Dan!!!!

Joel (NY)

Dan, any news on Carlos Baldomir fighting on TV again?

Dan Rafael

  (1:56 PM)

No, but he'll be in Belgium this month fighting Jackson Bonsu in an eliminator.

Jonathan (Chicago)

Dan, in your opinion, which of the three Winky fights from the notebook is most likely?

Dan Rafael

  (1:57 PM)

I think of them that Williams might be the most realistic.

Tomas(Tx)

Is Marquez/Vasquez III still pick for FOTY?

Dan Rafael

  (1:58 PM)

I will do what I do every year -- gather the DVDs of each candidate and watch them over the course of a couple of days and then decide.

Mario (Bell Gardens, CA)

Danaconda, how great would Margarito vs. Pacquaio be?

Dan Rafael

  (1:59 PM)

It wouldn't be great at all. Margarito is way to strong and fresh for Pacquiao right now and I have no interest in it.

Chris (Kalamazoo, MI)

Dan, I hope I don't unretire when I decide to pack it in. Then again, I just don't see me having this burning desire to want to conitinue doing accounting.

Tomas(Tx)

Speaking of DVD's, is there some site online where I can purchase some? I need to start a collection of great fights

Dan Rafael

  (2:01 PM)

Start your collection by recording everything and in a year you will have plenty to trade with rather than having to spend money.

Joel (NY)

Dan, how much would Top Rank charge you think for the split site PPV?

Dan Rafael

  (2:02 PM)

I asked Bob Arum that in Vegas and he wasn't sure but probably $39.95 he said.

Pat (NY)

n did you hear the conference call today between Holt and DHop? Im now pumped for this fight. DHop said Holt only beat Torres cause of a head butt and Holt came back and told him to give back the victory to Steve Forbes which he stole!!! CLASSIC!

Dan Rafael

  (2:03 PM)

They were smack talking like that yesterday too on our conference call. I hope it's a good fight.

Jeff (Redondo Beach, CA)

There is a fight on every boxing network tomorrow. Thank God for Tivo!

Dan Rafael

  (2:04 PM)

Whata great day. Watch the Klitschko fight at 4:45 ET, then the Versus card with Toney at 9 pm and then ShoBox at 11 pm. And then Giants-Cowboys and Armegeddon WWE PPV on Sunday night! What a great weekend.

Gerardo (Tempe, AZ)

Dan, is the makeup artist in your room already? Or are you doing SC over the phone only?

Dan Rafael

  (2:05 PM)

LOL. Today is just a phoner at about 2:40 pm.

Rick, Marina, Ca

My wife wants to know which DVD recorder I want for christmas, Im gon have to go with Panasonic.

Dan Rafael

  (2:05 PM)

Get the dual deck so you can convert your VHS to DVD very easily and nicely.

Tomas(Tx)

In the notebook, it says Juarez/Luevano is being negotiated. How do you see that fight playing out? Could be a snoozer

Dan Rafael

  (2:06 PM)

I think it will be a very solid fight. Luevano has been in some good scraps and so has Juarez. It's not a big main event or anything but as an opening TV fight or on a PPV undercard, it's excellent.

Joel (NY)

Dan, whos gonna win Edge/Hardy/HHH?

Dan Rafael

  (2:06 PM)

I'm pulling for Hardy!!!!!!!!!!!

Joel (NY)

I'd like to wish, but Edge is walking out with the strap!

Dave, NJ

Dan are your VHS tapes recorded in SP Speed? I have a Panasonic dual deck but my tapes in EP speed have a fuzzy picture when I play them.

Dan Rafael

  (2:09 PM)

Most of mine were recorded in SP except for some at the very beginning of my collection. Some have the fuzzy picture, so I just dont convert those.

Dan Rafael

  (2:09 PM)

OK, Freaks, enjoy a great weekend of fights and make sure to check out SportsCenter at 2:40. And, of course, don't forget about today's notebook and yesyerday's blog. Also, there will be a new blog tomorrow -- a big batch of random thoughts. Have a great weekend and talk to you next week. Peace.