ESPN

Dan Rafael

  (3:58 PM)

Greetings, Fight Freaks! Sorry for the later-than-usual start today. I had some business to attend to this afternoon. But I'm here now to chat about a big boxing weekend. Great HBO card tomrorow night and a very nice ESPN2 show tonight. Make sure you check out this week's blogs, today's giant notebook and the updated scheduled. Let's get to it.

Dan Rafael

  (3:59 PM)

And one other thing -- tomorrow night around midnight/12:30ish we'll have an RAD chat following the HBO tripleheader! So plan to be up late.

Tomas(Tx)

Hey Dan. JMM looked sensational last week. You think he should wait for the Pacman/Hatton winner or face someone in the lightweight tourney later on?

Dan Rafael

  (4:00 PM)

I think he should face whomever he can make the most against. I'd love to see him face the Hatton-Pacman winner.

E (Omaha)

D$$ - With the way Diaz fought last Saturday, do you think he would have beaten anyone else in the division?

Dan Rafael

  (4:00 PM)

Probably he would have. But he was in with the best. Someone has to lose.

Matt(Atlanta)

Lets get this out of the way. Who do you like Love Child or Kirkland?

Dan Rafael

  (4:02 PM)

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, the Love Child. I think it's going to be a sick action fight for as long as it goes and I am really looking forward to it. I love both guys, but I am picking Julio.

Cory j (Westerly, RI)

Dan...Where does Juan Diaz go from here after that amazing fight with Juan Manuel Marquez?

Dan Rafael

  (4:02 PM)

He needs an easy fight coming back and then right back into a solid title-level match.

Miguel Indio CA [via mobile]

DTM what are the real chances money mayweather comes back to fight Marquez? And how soon could it be scheduled.

Dan Rafael

  (4:03 PM)

I think anything is possible. IF he did come back to fight Marquez, I'd lay money it would be in mid-September on the Mexican holiday weekend.

Ricardo (LA)

Dan, any word on what may be next for Nate Campbell?

Dan Rafael

  (4:03 PM)

Nothing as of yet, but I am told he is likely going to sign with Golden Boy Promotions. If that works out, he'll be in the mix for a Marquez fight, maybe a Diaz rematch down the road, maybe a Victor Ortiz eventually.

Steve, Sac, Ca

Dano, what can you tell me about the guy Robert Guerrero is fighting Saturday? Will he put up a good scrap?

Dan Rafael

  (4:05 PM)

He's undefeated but against very limited competition. I actually saw him fight live in Vegas in his only US fight on a big fight undercard. I was not impressed but I was not unimpressed. He just seemed like a regular guy. I am hoping to have a more positive impression after tomorrow.

Tomas(Tx)

Would you like to see Kirkland fight or a title if he wins or maybe face someone like Angulo, two strong young guns

Dan Rafael

  (4:05 PM)

Kirkland-Angulo is a sensational matchup but if it ever happens, I think it will be a little later down the road when there are real stakes/money/titles at stake.

reg memphis

Great fight last weekend. Do you think Diaz has an issue when he gets cut. Both loses have come when he gets cut. It seems to freak him out.

Dan Rafael

  (4:06 PM)

I do. Diaz's wheels fell off in both losses after being cut. He did not handle either well.

Mark (Chicago)

Cotto - Clottey. Great fight! You can't say Cotto won't fight anyone if this actually happens. I think Clottey would pull off the minor upset.

Dan Rafael

  (4:07 PM)

Even if this fight doesn't happen you can't say that. Cotto has fought Margarito, Mosley, Torres, Quintana, etc... He has faced the best competition over at welterweight than any of the big guys.

Mikey (Levittown, NY)

Marquez is awesome but I am somewhat skeptical that he is a big enough fight to bring "Money" out of retirement. Do you agree?

Dan Rafael

  (4:07 PM)

I am skeptical but you never know.

richard san diego,c [via mobile]

dan i've heard erik morales wants to comeback and he wants to fight marquez,do you think it would be a good fight?

Dan Rafael

  (4:08 PM)

I don't see it happening. I do not think it is viable economically and Morales, last time I saw him was WAY too heavy.

Jon (DC)

Dan, I hate to do it, but give the IBF some credit for not rewarding Joan Guzman for not making weight and bailing.

Dan Rafael

  (4:09 PM)

The IBF simply deems anyone on any kind of suspension unavailable. If you do agree with it, fine, but do you agree that the guy they replaed Guzman with -- Fernando Angulo -- is fighting for a vacant title coming off a loss? I give no credit on this one.

Travis (Washington, DC)

Hey Dan, What'd you think of the Duke-UNC documentary on HBO?

Dan Rafael

  (4:09 PM)

Awesome with a cap A!!!

Jonathan (Chicago)

Hey Dan...Is any chance of Mosely v. Mayweather over and done with or do you still hold out any kinda hope?

Dan Rafael

  (4:10 PM)

Mayweather simply does not seem to want to fight Shane, which is a shame because I have wanted to see that fight since Shane was lightweight champion and Floyd was jr lightweight champion.

Brent, Toronto

I've heard rumours that the Froch-Taylor fight is on shaky ground - any word?

Dan Rafael

  (4:10 PM)

The fight is on. Ignore the nonsense.

Jeff (OH)

Dan you talked about Friday Night Fights and Golden Boy trying to iron out a contract with each other. Has deal been reached?

Dan Rafael

  (4:11 PM)

Not 100% done yet, but I am told it will get done.

Vince (Richmond, VA)

Your column about B-Hop moving up to fight Adamek got my pumped! What are the chances this fight happens?

Dan Rafael

  (4:12 PM)

I think very good. BHop seems very interested in it and I expect him to address it on FNF tonight since BHop is in the studio tonight. The Adamek camp has told me it is interested. Adamek can make more against BHop than any other fight out there. Great East Coast fight. Tremendous HBO fight. Probably pretty solid fight in the ring. I just absolutely love the fight and if BHop wants to fight again, I hope this one happens. It is way more interesting than seeing BHop fight Calzaghe again, for example.

Miguel Indio CA [via mobile]

D$$ out of the three fight this weekend on HBO which fighter woulg you say has the best chance to be great?

Dan Rafael

  (4:13 PM)

Love Child-Kirkland. Hands down.

Ricardo (Bronx, NY)

Dan, which idea is more ludicrous? Lacy moving up to 175? Or...Left Hook Promotions?

Dan Rafael

  (4:14 PM)

Well I am not surprised to see Jeff at 175. There's nothing left for him at 168. As for his upcoming fight, he may be at 171 or something, not necessarily all the way to 175. Left Hook Promotions? Whatever. But good luck to him. I've always liked Jeff and wish him nothing but success.

Steve, Sac, Ca

Dano, who is the front runner to fight Pavlik next?

Dan Rafael

  (4:14 PM)

I think there's a very good chance it will be Serio Mora.

Donald (New Orleans)

I just updated my facebook status to state that I am on this chat. Freak status?

Dan Rafael

  (4:14 PM)

Eh.

Justin (Las Vegas, NV)

You think HBO will make Chad Dawson fight Glen Johnson this year

Dan Rafael

  (4:15 PM)

HBO isn't going to "make" Chad fight anyone. If he beats Tarver, Dawson and his team will see what the biggest fight is out there for him. Would I like to see a Glen rematch? Of course.

Jeff (Redondo Beach, CA)

Great blog about what a great year it has been for HBO so far. So many people slam the networks and the promoters, but never praise them when they do something good.

Dan Rafael

  (4:17 PM)

Agreed. HBO has been tremendous this year and finished last year pretty good as well. People seem to get off by slamming HBO. I just call 'em like I see 'em and right now, HBO is on a great roll that I hope does not let up. Will every single fight be the perfect fight? No. But that's OK because what I think is a great fight might not be to you or to the HBO execs. But at least now it seems like every fight makes sense and is interesting for one reason or another.

Marc (Malden, MA)

JMM seemed to hit Diaz whenever he wanted. Is Diaz's defense a little suspect or was it just that JMM is so great?

Dan Rafael

  (4:17 PM)

Diaz just has absolutely no pop and Marquez is outstanding, so a little of both.

Steiny (NYC)

Javier Molina has decided to go pro. Smart move?

Dan Rafael

  (4:18 PM)

Why not? He's young and maybe can make some money. I was glad to hear that he is also going to go to college.

Dan (Louisville)

Donald in New Orleans actually took the time to step away from this chat and update his Facebook page. Correct me if I'm wrong, but that actually detracts from your freak status, I believe.

Dan Rafael

  (4:18 PM)

That is an excellent point.

Bruce: Alexandria

Rocky Juarez is the Howard Davis Jr. of this generation - Olympian and nice guy who comes tantalizingly close to a world title but never gets there.

Alex (Baltimore)

Dan, many boxing sites posted a quote by Oscar at the JMM-Diaz saying that he wants to finish his career by having a 3rd fight with Mosley. Buy or sell this happening and who wins?

Dan Rafael

  (4:19 PM)

I do not believe it will happen. Oscar mentioned that to me and I literally started to chuckle when he said it. Forget about it. Ain't happening. And if it does, somebody needs to be smacked around for making it.

Charles (Philly)

Is Arum saying that Showtime is trying to take Pavlik away from HBO? Sounds implausible.

Dan Rafael

  (4:20 PM)

Showtime isn't taking anything away. Pavlik's last fight was not on HBO and Pavlik is free to fight wherever he wants.

Hernan, Buffalo, NY

Dan, you seem a little negative on boxers who try to get into the promotion game. But don't we need new blood to replace the aging King's and Arum's?

Dan Rafael

  (4:22 PM)

I have no problem with a fighter promoting if it's legit, like Golden Boy or even a Square Ring, which did a lot of shows Roy Jones didn't fight on. But when it's a shell company that does nothing like Winky Promotions or or Calzaghe Promotions or Lion Promotions (Lennox's old company) or whatever, it's a joke.

Jeff (OH)

I think we just need to go ahead with this chat and pretend that you didn't say there's a good chance Kelly Pavlik is fighting Sergio Mora next.

Michael (Long Beach, CA)

Dan, about Diaz's lack of power. Does it seem he rocks back on his heels when he throws sometimes. Hard to understand why he doesn't have more pop.

Dan Rafael

  (4:23 PM)

Fighters are born with their power. It's very hard to develop it.

Geoff (NYC)

DTM, are any other undercard fights in the works for May 2nd besides the Concepcion fight.

Dan Rafael

  (4:24 PM)

Golden Boy will put on a fight likely with one of the winners from tomorrow's card -- Kirkland, Guerrero or Ortiz. Top Rank is putting on Matvey Korobov, it's outstanding prospect in a four-rounder, and Golden Boy will put on one of its top prospects, probably Deontay Wilder or Adrien Broner, in a four-rounder.

Tomas(Tx)

Dan what were your thoughts going into the 3rd or 4th rounds of the Diaz/Marquez fight?

Dan Rafael

  (4:25 PM)

That I am seeing an all-time classic unfold in front of me.

Brian (Orange, CA)

I don't understand why Cotto would rather fight Clottey than Berto. I feel Berto probably brings more money, a title, and he would be a better style matchup for Cotto.

Dan Rafael

  (4:26 PM)

Either fight is just fine with me, but I think it is just a lot easier to make the Clottey fight. Arum and Haymon dont mix well and he is Berto's adviser. Plus, I think Berto would command more money than Clottey, meaning less for Cotto, which is a problem.

Chris (Rotterdam Junction)

I wonder if Juan Diaz lost 5 pounds and went to jr lightweight if he would have some more power?

Dan Rafael

  (4:26 PM)

It's quite possible. And Diaz is not a guy who has to dry out too much to make 135 so if he really, really wanted to he could make 130. But then again, the money fights for him are at 135, not at 130.

Pancho, Los Mochis

Have you seen tape of the Chocolatito fight from last weekend - that was a close call for the youngster.

Dan Rafael

  (4:27 PM)

I have a DVD of the fight, which I was actually burning for a friend of mine last night. It was close, but Gonzalez did pull it out and deserved the decision.

Joel (NY)

Dan, realistically when will we see Devon Alexander in the ring and would a Nate Campbell fight him? I want to see Devon on TV soon

Dan Rafael

  (4:28 PM)

I doubt the fight will happen because Nate is just not going to fight a Don King fighter and Nate is also right when he says Devon brings nothing to the table for him. Nate is an established champtionship-level fighter with his eyes on much bigger names.

Raymond (Baltimore)

New York DANkee, do you know how much money you are going to cost companies with overtime today because of them staying late becuase of this chat!!

Dan Rafael

  (4:29 PM)

That's what I like to hear.

Justin (Las Vegas, NV)

Can you introduce me to your connect for these DVDs

Dan Rafael

  (4:29 PM)

No.

Jamesa(Ottawa)

57 days until Hatton goes down!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dan Rafael

  (4:29 PM)

But who's counting right?

Rick (Saint Paul, MN)

There's zero chance Kirkland-Julio goes the distance. Agree?

Dan Rafael

  (4:30 PM)

I don't agree. I've seen a lot of fights with big punchers you think will be a massive knockout along the way that winds up going the distance.

Steve, Sac, Ca

Dano, how did you have the JMM/Diaz fight scored when it was stopped?

Dan Rafael

  (4:30 PM)

Like most of my ringside colleagues, I had Diaz ahead by a few rounds with Marquez coming on very strong.

Sean Richmond VA

I'm trying to not feel disappointment over Linares, but should I be?

Dan Rafael

  (4:31 PM)

Linares is very frustrating. Awesome talent. Very exciting. A lot of charisma. But he's like an awesome sports car that's always in the shop.

Nick (Boston)

Dan, The opening sentance of your HBO blog this week said: Some media members seem to enjoy taking shots at HBO and distorting the facts just for fun, then refuse to acknowledge when things are going well"Was this a shot at Thomas Hauser? Many people think it was. Can you clarify?

Dan Rafael

  (4:32 PM)

Tom is just one of several media members who I feel have unfairly attacked HBO at times without putting things in proper context. That said, Tom is a friend of mine and I have the utmost respect for his work.

Jimmy

Dan, are you against Sergio Mora being Pavlik's next opponent? Obviously everyone wants to see Pavlik-Abraham, but since we know thats not happening at this time, I can accept a Mora fight. If Pavlik will be fighting around June, I think Mora is one of the best available fighters he could get in with, and because of his style he could bring a better fight than Forrest or Duddy.

Dan Rafael

  (4:33 PM)

I'm not against it. I'm not overwhelmingly for it. Unfortunately for Kelly, he fights in a pretty weak division at the moment and we all know that even if Abraham happens someday, it's not next. So why not Mora? You got some other much better suggestion?

Choco, New Jersey

Nice win in France for Cristobal Cruz - its great that he is making some money. Do you think his veteran experience would be too much for Gamboa at this point?

Dan Rafael

  (4:34 PM)

I have seen the DVD of that fight as well and Cruz is a pretty steady guy with a good chin and a lot of experience. Probably not the best fight for Gamboa right now.

Justin (Las Vegas, NV)

Yeah we may bash HBO but if ya ask any boxing fan for their top 10 fights most of them probably have been on HBO or HBO PPV

Dan Rafael

  (4:35 PM)

Exactly, although Showtime has had its share of great ones too (Vazquez-Marquez trilogy, Corrales-Castillo, Tyson-Holyfield 1, etc...).

Jason (DE)

Wouldn't mind seeing Forrest come up for Pavlik...

Dan Rafael

  (4:36 PM)

I wouldn't mind it either but is it THAT much bigger than a Mora fight? No if you ask me. Plus, Arum and Haymon don't work together so he's not going to give Haymon's fighter a shot at Pavlik unless it's a deal he likes.

Mikko (Leiden, The Netherlands)

This week's dose of sanctioning body lunacy: WBO has now two fights scheduled inside a month for its cruiserweight championship: Enzo Maccarinelli - Ola Afolabi and Victor Ramirez - Ali Ismailov. Not that we should care, but what is their explanation for this?

Dan Rafael

  (4:36 PM)

They are greedy pigs.

Zo (AZ)

So do you and other members of the boxing media get into some friendly but heated arguments in the media room when congregating for big fights?

Dan Rafael

  (4:37 PM)

All the time. It's one of the fun things about the job.

Tomas(Tx)

If Juarez doesnt get a rematch with John, you think a Juarez/Guerrero match is finally possible?

Dan Rafael

  (4:37 PM)

Still tough to do since they have the same manager, Shelly Finkel. It's unlikely I think right now.

Pat (NY)

I'm real excited for Marquez. Glad he's finally getting some burn. I've been a big fan since he drilled Medina.

Dan Rafael

  (4:38 PM)

I've been following Marquez since the late 1990s. He's always been so good even if some of his best years were wasted in nothing fights.

Daniel (SF)

Does it seem that Rocky Juarez is a bit mismanaged? He keeps getting overmatched against people like Marquez, Barrera and John. Why can't he get a winnable title shot against someone like Cassius Boloyi, Cristobal Cruz, or Oscar Larios?

Dan Rafael

  (4:39 PM)

Not at all. He wasn't overmatched with John. Jeeez, Rocky was coming down in weight.

Michael (Long Beach, CA)

Its nice having Steve Farhood's articles on Espn.com. He seems like a great guy.

Dan Rafael

  (4:39 PM)

Steve is the man even though I whip his ass all the time on our $1 ringside bets at fights. I am very happy that he is writing for us.

Rick, Marina, Ca

Any chance we see Guerrero-Soto fight by the end of the year?

Dan Rafael

  (4:40 PM)

Wouldn't be surprised at all. That's a great fight on Boxing After Dark or a PPV co-feature or even WCB undercard fight. Both sides have mentioned it as a possibility.

Bakari (Jersey City, NJ)

Is Julio a sentimental pick or do you really think he will win (not saying he can't, but wondering if you're picking with your heart instead of your head)?

Dan Rafael

  (4:41 PM)

I have never made a pick on emotion. I am picking him because I think he's way more experienced, a little younger, has faced WAY better competition, has better defense and a slightly better chin. We shall see.

Dan Rafael

  (4:41 PM)

I pick on heart, I would have picked Gatti over Mayweather.

Joel (NY)

Dan, I just found out the Latin Fury PPV March 28th will be $40, would you recommend it at that price?

Dan Rafael

  (4:42 PM)

I think it's a pretty good overall card but you are the only one who can decide for yourself. I will say what I always say -- get some of the boys together and chip in for it.

Tyler (Champaign, IL)

Dan, how much of a chance do you give Mike Arnaoutis to upset Victor Ortiz? I've got Ortiz by late stoppage

Dan Rafael

  (4:43 PM)

Very, very solid fight. I will not be surprised at all if Ortiz loses, although I do expect him to win.

Michael (Long Beach, CA)

Last week was the first time I had seen Chris John fight. And I must say I was impressed. He is more aggressive and engaging than I thought he would be.

Dan Rafael

  (4:45 PM)

John is a very good boxer and he performed very well against Rocky. I have seen John fight many, many times and he was aggressive as I have ever see him last week.

Pat (NY)

How did GBP go from Vivian Harris to Mike Arnaoutis. You couldnt get two different fighters if you tried.

Dan Rafael

  (4:45 PM)

Vivan played games and priced himself out and they went with Arnaoutis instead. The universe of fighters willing to take Ortiz and who would be acceptable to HBO was not very big.

Tomas(Tx)

Any word on Celestino Caballeros next opponent?

Dan Rafael

  (4:46 PM)

He is fighting his mandatory from South Africa but there is no date yet.

Bob (O.R.)

Dan, I had the surgeon bring me out of anesthesia mid-open heart surgery to participate in the chat. Freak status?

Dan Rafael

  (4:46 PM)

No. Stupid, not a Freak.

Rick, Marina, Ca

Im gonna purchase the PPV card with Barrea-Khan fight, I cant miss Barrea turn off the lights on Khan, for 25 bucks.

Dan Rafael

  (4:47 PM)

Good show for the price.

ESPN First Take

Will the winners of the 3 fights on Saturday night face each other in a 3-way boxing match?

Joel "Love Child" Julio

Dad! Im going to win this one for you!

Stacey: (Bluefield WV)

Dan, will ESPN be showing any under-card bouts for it's free-view Vitali vs. Gomez TV card?

Dan Rafael

  (4:48 PM)

No. I believe it will only be the main event.

Tyler (Pomona,Ca)

All of my familys precious video tapes have been recorded over with fights. over 100, i counted. Freak Status??

Dan Rafael

  (4:49 PM)

Not really. When you reach around 4,000 like I have, let me know.

Zo (AZ)

I like that Arreola is going to fight McCline. Should he past his test, does he still need a few more fights against tougher opponents or is he ready to challenge for a trinket?

Dan Rafael

  (4:50 PM)

Arreola is close to being a mandatory in more than one organization. If he beats McCline (no guarantee at all), I think he would probably have at least one more bout before a title fight. Once you get mandatory, things slow down and it takes forever to put a heavyweight title bout together.

Jim Lampley

And the freaks pound their keyboards,as if to say,"NOW we're chatting!"

Joel (NY)

Dan, I remember you wrote a blog about Golden boy and Shobox possibly working together to bring Golden Boy prospects to fight on Showtime, any further update on that?

Dan Rafael

  (4:51 PM)

Nothing new on that. I think Golden Boy is focused on finalizing its deal with ESPN, and if it does, we'll see a lot of its prospects on ESPN2.

Yorkis (Philly)

Will Adamek's sick KO of Banks and JMM's classic uppercut on Diaz both get KO of th Year consideration?

Dan Rafael

  (4:52 PM)

I think that both are going to be talked about when it comes time to pick the KO of the year, but I suspect we'll see some better ones between now and December.

Gerardo (Tempe, AZ)

Dan, I went to hbo.com but couldn't find any info. Do you know if they are planning to replay the Diaz-JMM fight any time soon? Of course I watched it, but it turns out my recorded failed me and didn't realize it 'till Wednesday!

Dan Rafael

  (4:53 PM)

It was replayed several times in the days after the fight. Check HBO On Demand. It should play there for at least the rest of the month.

Charles (Philly)

How was the ringside scoring in the John-Juarez fight?

Dan Rafael

  (4:54 PM)

Most people clearly had John winning.

Arod (NYC)

Dan were does Lenox Lewis stand on your heavyweight list of greats? I consider him good but not in the the top 10 at all.

Dan Rafael

  (4:55 PM)

Definitely lower part of the top 10. Absolutely.

Kelby (Omaha)

I love how Hopkins is considering a fight with Adamek. After his last few fights, you'd think most would avoid him. But not the Executioner...

Goldie, the Hamptons

Is Clottey going to cool his heels until a June fight with Cotto? That is a long layoff going into a huge fight.

Dan Rafael

  (4:56 PM)

If he gets the Cotto fight he definitely won't fight before then.

David (Atlanta)

any info on the next fight for Peter Quillen. I haven't heard his name at all this year.

Dan Rafael

  (4:56 PM)

Peter had hand surgery not long ago.

Steve, Sac, Ca

Dano, I keep reading that both Abraham and his camp and Pavilk and his camp want to make a fight, so what the hell is the problem?

Dan Rafael

  (4:57 PM)

You're not really asking that are you? Have you not read my answers to this for months or my extensive blog about it? Come on man. You're a regular. You should know better.

JAY(Brooklyn NY)

I think Juan Manuel Marquez is the best pound for pound fighter.

Dan Rafael

  (4:57 PM)

Wonderful.

Ryan: Alpharetta, GA

Dan my DVR is getting full and I need somewhere to store the fights I've recorded. One last time (i'll write it down this time), what kind of dvd burner do you have?

Dan Rafael

  (4:58 PM)

As I have said maybe 1,000 times I have a Panasonic DVD recorder/VCR combo and I record from my DVR to DVD. Any DVD recorder ought to be able to handle it.

Kevin (Baltimore)

I notice Rock Allen is not on the schedule anymore for tomorrow night. His fight been cancelled?

Dan Rafael

  (4:59 PM)

Yes.

Rick, Marina, Ca

Hey whats up Dan, Had lunch with the wife we're pumped we are going to San Jo tomorrow to watch the fights live. Cant wait first live fight we have been to.

Dan Rafael

  (5:00 PM)

Awesome. I hope you have a great time.

Grant (San Diego,CA)

Any update on Latimore-Spinks?

Dan Rafael

  (5:01 PM)

No. No date, no network, no nothing.

Tim, Denver

I was dissapointed hearding Mora is the front runner for Pav. Would much rather see Sturm, (since no Abraham) or Forrest.

Dan Rafael

  (5:02 PM)

You already know why Forrest is unlikely. Sturm is fighting in late April, making it very, very tough to commit to a June fight.

Dan Rafael

  (5:07 PM)

On Bat Phone.

Dan Rafael

  (5:09 PM)

I'm back.

Tommy(Detroit)

After last week (which was one of my favorite fights in years) JMM vs. PAC would be sick, but is this a huge PPV?

Dan Rafael

  (5:10 PM)

A third fight between them would do very well on PPV. The second fight did very well and the third fight is much bigger.

Jay (LA)

What were the TV ratings for JMM vs. Diaz last week?

Dan Rafael

  (5:10 PM)

I do not know the exact number, but I am told that it performed very, very well compared to expectations, that it was only a hair behind the rating of Mosley-Margarito. HBO is very happy with the number from what I understand.

Dave, San Jose

I'm disappointed in you Dan. Great card tomorrow, AND the Love Child is fighting and you are still not coming. Why the hate for the left coast?

Dan Rafael

  (5:12 PM)

I had a prior engagement and have traveled the past two weeks. I look forward to watching it on the big TV and then chatting with you about it tomorrow on the RAD chat.

Derek (Tulsa)

If Abraham wants Pavlik so bad, why doesn't he vacate his IBF belt so he can be put into the WBO/WBC rankings and made a mandatory for Pavlik's title?

Dan Rafael

  (5:14 PM)

Somebody needs an economics lesson and fast.

Fletch (Pittsburgh, PA)

BTW Dantasm, got the girlfriend to watch my copy of Monshipour v the Sith Lord (she speaks a smattering of french). We have a freak in training now! She ordered HBO so now I can't blow her off on Saturday nights anymore :)

Dan Rafael

  (5:14 PM)

Sweet. Love that fight. One of my all-time favorites. I once watched at least part of that fight literally every single day for like a month.

Eric (North Hollywood, CA)

Hey Dan, it looked like John was about to get knocked out by Juarez in the last 2 rounds. I actually thought Rocky would've done it if he didn't get gassed at the end of the rounds.

Dan Rafael

  (5:15 PM)

My thought on it was had that been a 15-rounder like in the old days, Rocky would have stopped him.

Freaks

RAD CHAT!! YESSSSSSSSSSS!

Ed (Houston)

Why didn't Prince Hamed ever fight JMM or Morales?

Dan Rafael

  (5:16 PM)

He ducked them like they were limbo sticks.

Dan Rafael

  (5:17 PM)

Bat phone again.

Dan Rafael

  (5:17 PM)

We have minor breaking news.

Dan Rafael

  (5:18 PM)

Edwin Valero has split with trainer Kenny Adams and is now being trained by the one and only Robert Alcazar (De La Hoya's longtime trainer).

Naseem Prince Hamed

I am limbo champion of my country.

layzie guy DC

its funny how you tried to take credit for coming up with the idea of manny fighting oscar. if hopkins takes on adamek i will give you credit though. as much as i hate to

Dan Rafael

  (5:19 PM)

I didn't come up with DLH-Pacquiao. Larry Merchant did. I was simply the first person to write about it and support it in the media.

Oscar De la Hoya

If Valero loses his next fight, it will be Robert's fault.

Randy (Toronto)

Is the winner of the Contender really a Canadian?

Dan Rafael

  (5:21 PM)

Troy Ross was a two-time Olympian for Canada.

Brian (scottsdale, AZ)

I love that segura vs. canchilla is on aztec america again. Loved the first fight, so it should be great again.

Patrick (Mexico)

Dan-o-corp:Whaddya know about the Mexican welterweight Saul Alvarez? He's got some halfway decent wins and a lot of fights under his belt for being only 18.

Dan Rafael

  (5:22 PM)

Excellent prospect.

Chris (Los Angeles CA)

D$ - What fight in your arsenal would you say you've viewed the most? I've been on a huge British fight kick and I can't stop watching Arthur-Gomez.

Dan Rafael

  (5:24 PM)

I LOVE Gomez-Arthur. When I did my 10 Fights for Freaks story awhile back it was on the list. I have watched Corrales-Castillo a million times (and caught it on Showtime last night on a replay). I have watched Gatti-Ward 1 and 3 tons of times, Barrera-Morales 1 and 3 a million times, Leonard-Hearns 1, Pryor-Arguello 1, etc...

Fletch (Pittsburgh, PA)

http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/boxing/columns/story?columnist=rafael_danandid=3094862If you don't have these fights, shame on you. I was just happy I had 7 of 10 before that post :)

Dan Rafael

  (5:24 PM)

Nice. That's the link for the fights for freaks piece.

Tim (Denver,CO)

Double Dan, look into your great crystal ball... Will Chavez Jr ever fight someone that the normal fight fan cares about?

Dan Rafael

  (5:26 PM)

Eventually, I think he will. When? I don't know. Top Rank is about to sign Alfonso Gomez and down the road he could be a big fight for Chavez.

Berry, The Netherlands

Dan! Is David Haye going to fight Wladimir or Vitali Klitschko? I thought there was a deal with Wladimir but I also read that Vitali wants to fight Haye later in the year.

Dan Rafael

  (5:27 PM)

Haye is going to face Wladimir. The deal is just about done to take place June 20 in Germany. HBO will televise in the US.

Dave, NJ

I am shocked to read that you were not at Gatti-Ward I.

Dan Rafael

  (5:28 PM)

I was supposed to be there. I came down with the flu the day before I was supposed to go and had like 103 fever. I watched it the guest room of my old townhouse dead on the bed with a cold wash cloth on my head.

Steiny (NYC)

Fighter of the year easily goes to Manny Pacquiao right?

Dan Rafael

  (5:29 PM)

Are you dumb? It's freakin' March. There's a long way to go and he has to win May 2. I mean come on.

Chris (Nashville)

Should Mosley/Margarito be on the Top 10 list now?

Dan Rafael

  (5:30 PM)

No way. Great performance but a one-sided fight.

outraged freak

Steiny, that's a stooge question..you are the winner of "Stooge of the Year." it's only February dude...and Manny hasn't even fought yet.

Michael (Long Beach, CA)

How can we easily have a fight of the year in March?

Dan Rafael

  (5:30 PM)

You should see the rest of Steiny's crappy questions.

Fletch (Pittsburgh, PA)

Dan Rafael: (5:16 PM ET ) He ducked them like they were limbo sticks. Classic.

Rick, Marina,Ca

Did you watch the Diaz-Marquez fight again when you got home?

Dan Rafael

  (5:32 PM)

Yes, like 7 times. I have been playing it regularly for days.

Michael (Long Beach, CA)

Maybe Steiny should be introduced to Banishment to save him from further humiliation.

Banishment

Steiny, you are first today.

Dan Rafael

  (5:32 PM)

Steiny is officially banished for easily the worst set of questions repeated over and over and jamming up the queue.

Tim, Denver

You want freak status? I'm suffering from by 2nd battle with the flu in as many weeks, my mom flies into town tonight, yet postponing going out to dinner for the fights tonight, have tickets to the Alvarado tomorrow, and the DVR primed for the BAD. Hows that?

Dan Rafael

  (5:33 PM)

Solid.

Mike (Vancouver, WA)

Dan, I know it's unlikely to happen in the near future, but I would love to see a third fight between Pacquiao and Marquez. Which leads me to wondering, have there been many trilogies where each fight took place at a different weight class? Thanks!

Dan Rafael

  (5:33 PM)

Barrera-Morales fought three times. The first was at 122 for the title, the second for the title at 126 and the third for the title at 130.

James Angus (Wales)

Has boxing gotten over Calzaghe's retirement yet? And the answer is a resounding.......???

Dan Rafael

  (5:33 PM)

Cazalg.... who?

Chris (Rotterdam Junction)

I was impressed with Chris John. He throws alot of punches, has stamina, and seems to have a decent beard. Were all the journalists that attended impressed with him?

Dan Rafael

  (5:34 PM)

I know I was.

Stacey: (Bluefield WV)

DTM, dig my scorecard to get in two weeks ago. 1 tornado, 60 trees down within a half block of my house, no power for 3 days. So I used my laptop's batteries to just look at last week's chat. Freak status or not?

Dan Rafael

  (5:35 PM)

Not bad.

Chris M. (Toronto)

Hey Dan, always been curious, on what grounds do promoters release their fighters after losses, i.e. Cintron from Main Events after Margarito II, or Lacy from Golden Boy after Taylor. Do they just not see these guys as viable commodities anymore, or is it a mutual agreement?

Dan Rafael

  (5:36 PM)

I think in the case of Lacy, after he lost to Taylor they were able to line up another good fight for him for low six figures. But it was not his minimum purse, which was not realistic after he had his head handed to him. They couldn't work out and they parted ways. That's the business. Kind of like a salary cap casualty in the NFL.

HBK

Will I end the Undertaker's Mania streak?

Dan Rafael

  (5:37 PM)

I hope not. I love HBK, but Undertaker is THE MAN.

Jenn (Austin, TX)

My boyfriend's a huge fight fan, and I'd like to get him some DVD's of as many of those fights you listed as I can for his birthday in May. Are they on Amazon, or is there a specialty retailer I should look into?

Dan Rafael

  (5:38 PM)

Unfortunately, they are not commercial releases. You would need to depend on fan sites or ebay to try to pick them up.

Walter (Albuquerque, NM)

You don't disappoint Dan. I thought you were gutless and you are. You want to pretend like we didn't see your 6-2 Diaz score card but we did, and you're not man enough to defend it. Weak sauce!

Dan Rafael

  (5:38 PM)

I have nothing to defend. That was my card (and the card of others as well). If you don't like it, I couldn't care less.

Jeff (Redondo Beach, CA)

Just wanted to say this. Somsak Sithchatchawlan. Thank you.

Dan Rafael

  (5:39 PM)

God bless you.

Jon (DC)

Dan, Lacy is shot and I don't think he should fight.

Justin (San Diego, CA)

Delvin Rodriguez seems like a good kid and is fun to watch on espn2 but I just can't seem him faring well with the top 15 guys at 147 - what is the end game for him, step up and get beat down?

Dan Rafael

  (5:40 PM)

I think with a good performance tonight, he could be a reasonable opponent for somebody like Berto.

Freaks (Freakland)

Promote Jenn to Freak status! Great gift idea.

Banishment

I'll take Walter smothered in Dan's weak sauce!!!!

Rui (Nutley, NJ)

What matches will be on the Khan/Barrera PPV? And do you know how much it will cost?

Dan Rafael

  (5:42 PM)

The main event, Nicky Cook vs. Roman Martinez (very solid fight for a 130 belt) and Enzo Maccarinelli vs. Ola Afolabi for a cruiser belt. At least those three. I think it's $24.95. Definitely a good show and worth the money in my mind for sure.

Rick, Marina, Ca

How about Chavez Jr. vs Victor Ortiz?

Dan Rafael

  (5:42 PM)

One fights at 140, one at 154. Relax. Ain't happening.

Dave, NJ

Do you have a library of any other sporting events, like Super Bowls or tennis matches, etc?

Dan Rafael

  (5:43 PM)

I have tons -- probably every Super Bowl since the late 80s, All-Star Games, World Series, NCAA games, Yankee games, Duke games, Giants games, NFL playoff games, Triple Crown races. It's pretty sick.

E (Omaha)

Mannychester!! What a great quote from Manny. I can't wait for May!

Arod (NYC)

I know its early but is Barrerra a live dog vs Khan?

Dan Rafael

  (5:46 PM)

Definitely. I wouldn't be surprised if he stiffened Khan.

Pancho, Los Mochis

Did you think that Dibella was serious about a rematch with Colazzo so soon for Berto? Do you think HBO would approve Jesus Soto Karass as an opponent?

Dan Rafael

  (5:47 PM)

I think Lou and Berto would do the rematch but I think they are more likely to do it at the end of the year instead of in May. I think Soto Karass is a reasonable opponent.

matt h (phx, az)

I come home from school and you're still on! Sweet!

Dan Rafael

  (5:48 PM)

Do your homework first.

chris brown ( L.A.)

I got more pop than Juan diaz!!!!!

Rick, Marina, Ca

Pacman has 3 losses 1 to Morales who are the other 2?

Dan Rafael

  (5:50 PM)

He got knocked out in three at flyweight by an unknown in 1996 and got drilled in three by Singsurat in 1999 when he lost the flyweight title.

Kevin (Boston)

Dan, I'm pumped about Taylor vs. Froch at Foxwoods. I plan to attend as my first live fight. What do you think Showtime could do for an undercard to try and keep pace with HBO? Maybe a local guy like Matt Godfrey vs Troy Ross?

Dan Rafael

  (5:50 PM)

The undercard, as I wrote today in my notes, likely will be Allan Green vs. Carlos De Leon Jr.

Walter (Albuquerque, NM)

Round 7 was 50% Landed for Marquez and 37% Diaz. You gave the round to Diaz! 13% difference! And everyone and there mother could see the punched Marquez was landing were way more effective.

Dan Rafael

  (5:51 PM)

Dude give it a rest. First off, I don't have CompuBox stats, second of all, there are lots of rounds people can disagree on.

jake (New Jersey)

Any news on who Mikkel Kessler might be facing next?(hopefully someone good)

Dan Rafael

  (5:51 PM)

Probably some Finnish hobo.

Matt H (Phx, AZ)

I think JMM punches are textbook perfect. Who else throws perfectly executed punches?

Dan Rafael

  (5:52 PM)

Ricardo Lopez threw the most textbook perfect punches you could ever see.

huff (dekalb,il)

dan dont even waste our time with walters comments, hes a complete idiot. does he not realize boxing is judgemental not an exact scoring system? this isnt the olympics

Berndawg

Oy vey! Now they're quoting punch stat numbers. Folks, get over it.

Dennis (Miami, Fl)

Can you confirm that their is still only one Ricky Hatton?

Dan Rafael

  (5:53 PM)

According to sources close to the situation, there is indeed only one Richard Hatton.

Steve, Sac, Ca

Dano, What % do you give for the Adamek/BHop actually taking place?

Dan Rafael

  (5:55 PM)

I wont put a % on it, but I think it's very possible. I hope it happens.

Drunk Brits

There's Only One Ricky Hatton!

Nate (Palmerton, PA)

DTM, I know the Contender just wrapped up but I cannot find the answer to a question I have had for awhile. How are the fighters selected to be on the show? For example, how was someone like Jon Schnieder selected for the show with only 8-10 career fights, why specifically him and not another fight with the same record? Thanks!

Dan Rafael

  (5:56 PM)

The producers brought in many fights for tryouts/interviews. They selected the guys they thought would make the best television show -- meaning their boxing ability was important but so was their back story and personality.

Drunk Brit (Mannychester)

A Filipino is currently making love to my wife while I watch, gently sobbing.

Dan Rafael

  (5:56 PM)

I have no idea what that is supposed to mean, but I am cracking up hard from that comment.

Michael (Long Beach, CA)

Walter, go back to your bong.

miguel Indio CA [via mobile]

DTM what's next for el perro angulo?

Dan Rafael

  (5:57 PM)

IF Angulo's cut is healed from the Feb. 14 fight he had on HBO there is a good chance he will wind up fighting live on HBO on the Dawson-Tarver 2 undercard on May 9. How's that for a little late-chat news nugget?

Rick, Marina, Ca

Hey, Dan you said that you and your media colleuges always have aguments and disagreemnets. If you were to have a Pardon the Interuption type show about boxing only who would be sitting across from you?

Dan Rafael

  (5:58 PM)

Any nunber of people, but I have had some spirited debates with my buddies Tim Smith or Kevin Iole, for example.

Matt (Naperville, IL)

Out of what percentage would you say Mayweather-Marquez happens?

Dan Rafael

  (6:00 PM)

Maybe 25% at this point. I have my doubts.

Jeff (alabama)

The idea of Bhop fighting for the lineal crusier wt. champ is awesome. Could he compete at heavy? 3rd middle wt. to get the belt would be ridiculous.

Dan Rafael

  (6:01 PM)

He's 44. Let him win the cruiser title before we even go there.

Joe (Stamford, CT)

So the Irish Ropes Paddy's day eve card at the MSG theater got cancelled, huh? So much for Irish Ropes being the engine that powered the Duddy train.

Dan Rafael

  (6:01 PM)

The show was called off because ticket sales died.

Chris (Los Angeles CA)

D$ - Lopez is spot on for textbook, but so is Alexis Arguello in my opinion.

Dan Rafael

  (6:02 PM)

Good call. Also a master at textbook punching.

Mark (Chicago)

I'd would absolutely love to see Adamek v Hopkins. Do you think that could actually happen?? I mean, how much could Bhop seriously make fighting him?

Dan Rafael

  (6:02 PM)

BHop seems realistic about the economy so I don't think he'd be crazy with the money. All in he can probably a 2-plus million for a fight like that.

Sean (SF)

I'll be at the show tomorrow...anything interesting to know for the fights that aren't on TV

Dan Rafael

  (6:04 PM)

You'll see an assortment of Golden Boy prospects. Check the fight sked for the full lineup.

Jeff (phoenix)

Dan,Everytime JMM fights and wins does it not make John's convincing victory against him more impressive?

Dan Rafael

  (6:04 PM)

Not really because although John won, it wasn't overly convincing. A lot of people believe Marquez won.

Tim (Pittsburgh,PA)

Dan, actual percent chance in your estimation floyd comes back this year??

Dan Rafael

  (6:06 PM)

Very good chance. He'll be back eventually as surely as the sun will rise tomorrow. Will it be in '09? Not sure about that one.

Mike (San Diego, CA)

Any word on the Williams-Wright live undercard? Do you think we will get mostly GBP or Goosen guys?

Dan Rafael

  (6:09 PM)

Well Arreola-McCline and probably some guys from both companies.

Richard (Franklin Park, NJ)

Hey Dan! It's been about a year since I was able to partake in a chat due to a new job with no internet access and being too far away from home to join in on my lunch break like I used to. Just wanted to let you know I'm still alive and that I miss the chats and the freaks, although I do read every transcript the second I get home Fridays so that dulls the pain. Thank goodness for a 4pm chat so I could get home before it ended! Hope all is well with you.

Dan Rafael

  (6:10 PM)

Richard lives!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rick, Marina, ca

Will you be on in-studio or will be the guest tonight?

Dan Rafael

  (6:10 PM)

No, BHop is on tonight.

Enzo Calzaghe (wales)

gjsgduiudyjsdhjvgdsjhjskfcjsdgdjvjuksdjidi!! (translation) joe is the greatest of all time!!!

Theron (Los Angeles) [via mobile]

Dan, I am considering going to see Peter vs. Chambers in Los Angeles, do you think Peter has anything left?

Dan Rafael

  (6:12 PM)

He took a thorough pounding from Vitali, but Chambers is not Vitali. I think that's a good show and would encourage you to go. Good main event, up-and-coming John Molina in the co-feature and 2008 US Olympians Estrada and Molina plus some other bouts.

Dennis (Miami, Fl)

Hey Dan, do you think mayweather is using the "retired" card to make it easier for him do duck the really good fighters?

Dan Rafael

  (6:13 PM)

No, because he ducked fighters even when he was active.

Sergio/San Diego

Why doesn't ESPN do a Boxing Live segment on the web like they do for MMA. It could be you, BK and BHOP.

Dan Rafael

  (6:13 PM)

I would love that.

Charles (Philly)

Did you say that JMM-Diaz was one of the best fights you have ever covered? Does the crowd play into your appreciation of a fight?

Dan Rafael

  (6:14 PM)

I did say that and it's true. And, definitely, the atmosphere plays a role in that. The crowd in Houston was electric.

Mike (San Diego, CA)

How do you feel about Arreola-McCline? They could have (and I thought they were going to) found a much worse opponent.

Dan Rafael

  (6:15 PM)

They tried, but HBO wasn't buying a crappy fight.

Mike (San Diego, CA)

Dan, I had someone say to me that JMM-Baby Bull was as good as Castillo-Corrales I. I disagree but where do you see this fight being remembered as far as fights this decade?

Dan Rafael

  (6:15 PM)

I loved JMM-Diaz, but it was NOT EVEN CLOSE TO CORRALES-CASTILLO 1.

Charles (Philly)

Marquez's upper body looked pretty bulky at 135 (although it didn't seem to slow him down); is it plausible that he could move all the way up to 147?

Dan Rafael

  (6:17 PM)

I do not think Marquez would be effective all the way up at welter.

Charles (Philly)

Oh, man, I DVR'd Coralles-Castillo in hi-def last night, and now I can't wait to watch it this weekend!

Dan Rafael

  (6:17 PM)

Sick fight. Have you ever seen it?

Charles (Philly)

DTM, I can't tell whether your P4P rankings have been updated; will JMM be moving up?

Dan Rafael

  (6:18 PM)

They are updated once a month, usually the second week of the month. New ones will be out next week, so you can check them to see the new list. I'm not giving it away here.

C.M. (Canada)

Any advice for a true freak who'll be in the Philippines for Hatton-Pacquiao, watching the fights alongside thousands of screaming Pac-maniacs?

Dan Rafael

  (6:19 PM)

Duck if he loses.

Matt Wilkey (Crescent)

Dan In Real Life, am I the only one in thinking that HBO PPV is going to be rendered nearly obsolete in the next few years? Rising stars they may have, but true superstars I doubt any of them will be. Can you name one matchup that you think would be bonafide PPV-worthy in the next three years, anything involving Pacquiao, Hatton, or Mayweather aside?

Dan Rafael

  (6:19 PM)

Somebody always comes along.

Ryan (Durham, NC)

DTM, Love Child - Kirkland, over under 5 rounds?

Dan Rafael

  (6:20 PM)

Over.

E.L. Trujillo (Mile High City)

Thank you for signing my copy of the article you wrote on Marquez-Diaz. Saturday night at the Toyota Center was awesome. Undoubtedly, Marquez's performance puts him in excellent position for 2009.

Dan Rafael

  (6:21 PM)

Always great to meet the Freaks when I am at fights!

David (Old Bridge, NJ)

Dan, There's been some recent talk in the boxing media (Max Kellerman, Kevin Lole) that JMM is the #1 p4p fighter, given his very close (and debatable) loss and draw with Pacquiao, and the fact that Oscar was already shot when Manny destroyed him. Now, given JMM's sensational performance over Diaz Saturday, what are your thoughts about JMM being #1 p4p ? Thanks.

Dan Rafael

  (6:22 PM)

I do not believe he is No. 1. I still have Manny there. People thought Oscar would kill Manny and that it was a fight that shouldn't even happen because it was so much a mismatch. It is not fair to change position after the fight.

Fletch (Pittsburgh, PA)

Everyone giving Dantasm flack for Marquez Diaz scoring needs to actually watch the fight. Marquez was pushed to a pace HE DID NOT want for close to 7 rounds, and if he wasn't the #2 LB4LB guy, Diaz would have made him quit like Freitas and Julio Diaz. I personally had it 5 for Diaz, 2 for Marquez and one round even. Marquez won the 8th and obviously was headed for at least 10-7 9th so the fight would have been even at that point.

Matt, LA

Who else was considered other than McCline for Arreola...there was nobody better than this tired retread?

Dan Rafael

  (6:23 PM)

Come up with someone. Rahman was rejected (thankfully), a couple of untested guys were not approved. Look at the division and there is not much a choice.

Chris Metler (Toronto)

DTM, it's my 23rd birthday today, and all I've asked for from anyone is HBO Boxing's old theme music back. Okay, and the graphics as well. Can a freak get a shout out on this special day?

Dan Rafael

  (6:24 PM)

Happy birthday, Freak. I want the old music back too. The new stuff is killin' me.

Gene, Denver

Why doesn't ESPN show fight highlights? I heard that it was the promotors who don't allow them to. Is that right? And what is the reasoning behind that? It seems like the sport could get more exposure if more people got to see how great some of these fights are.

Dan Rafael

  (6:25 PM)

Did you watch last week? SportsCenter had great highlights of JMM-Diaz to go along with my thoughts.

Mike (Glen Ellyn, IL)

I'm pumped about Vitali being on FNF in a couple weeks.

Dan Rafael

  (6:26 PM)

Well he's on Saturday afternoon on ESPN the Uno, not FNF, but I am also psyched.

Korey Chicago Il [via mobile]

The moment Floyd Mayweather comes back to the ring is he right back on top as the number 1 pound for pound fight

Dan Rafael

  (6:26 PM)

No. That spot much be re-earned.

Christopher, Staten Island

That's awesome that Dibella was interested in Berto fighting Collazzo again like you Notebook said. You think that fight happens?

Dan Rafael

  (6:27 PM)

Perhaps eventually, but I don't think Lou has the stones to make it for May.

Bradley Edwards (Richmond, VA)

Your boy, the Love Child, has 2 losses to southpaws. For whatever reason, he decided to fight a southpaw again. But Kirkland isn't in the same mold as Quintana or Dzinziruk. If Julio can withstand the first few round onslaught that Kirkland will bring, Julio will win a close decision in a fight with good action!

Shaun England

Why are so biased against british fighter??? how come hatton is so low on your pound4 pound list???

Dan Rafael

  (6:28 PM)

I'm not biased at all. Hatton is where he belongs.

Greg P (Staten Island,NY)

Dan, any news on WHEN Shane is going to fight again...is Berto's name high on the list?

Dan Rafael

  (6:29 PM)

There is nothing new with Shane at all. I spoke to him in Houston last week about it and there's nothing. He'd like Mayweather but Mayweather won't fight him. So he is also interested in the Hatton-Pacquiao winner.

Julian(Albany)

Wassup Dan, Dont get me wrong JMM is a GREAT fighter, but why would Mayweather be genuinely interested in fighting him instead Shane Mosley? Mayweather/Mosley is a bigger event and better fight.(More money) Even though JMM is a TERRIFIC fighter Mosley presents a harder fight for floyd than JMM. I believe Floyd is DUCKING Mosley. What do you think?

Dan Rafael

  (6:30 PM)

You answered your own question. Not that Marquez is easy but it's not nearly as tough a fight as Mosley. Plus, even if Mosley is a bigger fight, Mosley would command a greater split than Marquez would.

Richard (Kendall Park, NJ)

Why is Shaun so biased FOR a British fighter??? Shaun should save his stupid questions for First Take.

bronx, newyork

sup dan....do u think felix"tito" trinidad will fight again?

Dan Rafael

  (6:31 PM)

I have no idea and at this point, don't really care. If he does, let me know.

Dan Rafael

  (6:32 PM)

He's very good. I also think Mosley is terrific at making adjustments.

Chris (Los Angeles CA)

D$ - I gotta tell ya, I'm a huge fan of the video packages HBO runs before each fighter makes his way to the ring. Hearing some of Lamps calls give me goosebumps!

Chris (Bethpage)

Danooo, I just watched the Marquez Diaz fight and i realized how great Michael Buffer is. He can jack you up for anything with those intros. The guy just takes everything to another level.

Berndawg

Perhaps a crazy question, but maybe Mosley vs. Forrest 3? Neither have anything planned or no interest from anyone including HBO. Thanks

Dan Rafael

  (6:32 PM)

Certainly a possibility I would think, but I think Shane has his eye on a much bigger fight.

Dan Rafael

  (6:33 PM)

OK, Freaks, thanks for the great chat. Enjoy all the fights this weekend, read the blogs and notebook and report back here after tomorrow night's HBO fights for a little RAD action. Peace.