Dan Rafael

  (12:00 PM)

Greetings Fight Freaks to our boxing chat. The new notebook is up plus a couple of new blogs this week. We've got an excellent HBO card tomorrow night with Berto-Urango and Angulo-Cintron and Cotto-Clottey in two weeks. Let's get to it.

Kyle (Indianapolis)

What do you think about Cunningham-Braithwaite not being televised and Demarco being on the show?

Dan Rafael

  (12:00 PM)

I wish all three were on but if I had to pick, I'd rather see the Cunningham fight. However, the card is a co-promotion between Don King and Gary Shaw and Shaw got the undercard spot for his guy, DeMarco.

Charles (Philly)

After reading your blog entry on the WBC stripping Forrest, I almost went out into the yard to bite my dog.

Dan Rafael

  (12:02 PM)

I have no idea what you mean but it sounds amusing. That said, I am an animal lover and do not advocate biting your pets.

Chris (Waterville, ME)

Dan, going to Vegas in July and will be at the Marquez/Mayweather weight-in. Will it be insane or what?

Dan Rafael

  (12:02 PM)

I don't expect the passion of a Hatton or Pacquiao weigh in, but if the fans turn out for the fight you can bet on a fun weigh in.

DK, TX

DTM, long time reader first time chatter. Kenny, Roach, Mayweather, Moseley, Lara, Rigondeaux. Last weeks FNF was just great television!

Dan Rafael

  (12:03 PM)

The only thing missing was me.

Tim (Lincoln)

So let's hear the picks for tomorrow night. Seems pretty easy to say Berto by UD and Angulo by mid-rounds KO, no?

Dan Rafael

  (12:04 PM)

I like Berto on points. The other fight I'm not so sure about. Angulo has poor defense and Cintron is a good puncher but I don't think he has a big heart. So if Angulo can survive the early rounds, I think it's his fight.

Tom

Dan, will Danny Jacobs be on the Mayweather/Marquez card?

Dan Rafael

  (12:04 PM)

I don't think he's slated for that card right now. He has an ESPN2 fight June 26.

Kevin (Grand Rapids, MI)

So is Chagaev really gonna fight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:04 PM)

He weighed in so I assume so.

Chris (Kalamazoo, MI)

talking of the Kenny-Floyd interview, why was it OK for Floyd to fight Oscar when he had 4 losses before the Floyd fight? Floyd is a total hypocrite. His name is even hypocritical because he has no money.

Dan Rafael

  (12:05 PM)

His name should be Floyd "Needs Money" Mayweather.

Greg P (Staten Island,NY)

Dan, who's the best lightweight you have ever seen fight...how would you rank:Mosley,Floyd,Pernell,JCC at 135?

Dan Rafael

  (12:05 PM)

Roberto Duran.

Ghostbuster, PR

Carlos "El Indio" Quintana again withdraws from an ESPN fight. Is that the end of Quintana on ESPN?

Dan Rafael

  (12:06 PM)

His second pull out of the year. I don't think they're going to go out of their way to put on another Quintana fight any time soon.

Tomas(Tx)

Dantastic Four, is it possible we could see Berto in a big fight later in the year if he wins tomorrow, like a fight with Mosley?

Dan Rafael

  (12:06 PM)

Mosley doesn't really want that fight because it's not a big fight, so I have my doubts. But Mosley may not have a lot of options. I am sure Mosley will watch the fight this weekend with interest.

Gerardo, Chicago, IL

Dan. What am I missing? Campbell is in litigation with Don King to get out of a contract but can still get one fight with King? How does this work?

Dan Rafael

  (12:07 PM)

They can agree to do the fight together and King will get his piece. If Nate wins his case, he can walk. Pure business deal.

Sean (Ft. Lauderdale, FL)

Going to the Hard Rock fights tomorrow, any off TV fights worth watching? I looked at the match-ups and decided that aside from Yusef Mack, "no".

Dan Rafael

  (12:09 PM)

Mack is a contender who will get an opportunity at something bigger I suspect, so check him out. Joe Greene was supposed to be on, but his fight was called off because his opponent fell out and they could not secure a replacement. Tor Hamer and Wilmer Vazquez are heavyweight prospects worth taking a look at.

Bill (Burlington, VT)

Dan, what is Versus new boxing show going to be like? Are they aligned with any promoters going forward? Are all the shows going to be at the Nokia in LA?

Dan Rafael

  (12:10 PM)

They are club fights being put on by Golden Boy. It's only a four-show series at the moment and Versus is airing it but not producing it. It will basically be club fights with local LA guys. The main events will be 6- or 8-round fights. It's a way to build local attractions in Southern California. Don't expect big names.

Dan Rafael

  (12:11 PM)

And, yes, all of the shows will be at the Nokia Theater, which is owned by AEG, which is producing the shows and partners with Golden Boy.

Carlito Brigante

Why do boxing writers hate Floyd?

Dan Rafael

  (12:11 PM)

We don't hate Floyd. But we also write the truth and don't him spin his BS.

Ryan Staten Island, NY

Any Info on Jermain Taylors Arrest in Miami?

Dan Rafael

  (12:12 PM)

He got arrested on Memorial Day in Miami Beach for disorderly conduct and resisting arrest and is out on bond. Nothing too serious. Supposedly, had stopped his car on a street with traffic and was told to move along. Got a little heated and got arrested. I am told heavyweight Dominick Guinn, Taylor's buddy, was also arrested with him.

Mario (Bell Gardens, CA)

Danaconda, Happy Friday!!! I like Floyd's new nickname, "Needs Money"!!!

Bronk (Dillsburg, PA)

What's the latest on Kelly Pavlik since the Mora fight was cancelled? His reign as champ has been lackluster for sure, don't you think?

Dan Rafael

  (12:13 PM)

It's been extremely disappointing. Top Rank is hoping to reschedule the Mora fight for September.

Anthony

Have you heard any reports about how Cotto's training is going? It's amazing to me he's gotten as far as he has without having a strong relationship with his trainer.

Dan Rafael

  (12:14 PM)

Cotto spoke to the media yesterday on a conference call and I was on it. He sounded excited for the fight and ready to go. Said he really liked training in Tampa and that his camp was going smoothly without issues and he was glad to have peace in his camp without his uncle. He said he has no distractions. He was about 153 pounds, which is right where he should be at this time. I can't wait for the fight.

Daniel (UK)

Bobby Gunn was the worst world title challenger I have ever seen when he fought Maccarinelli. It's a joke that anyone would sanction him for one title fight in his career, nevermind two!

Dan Rafael

  (12:15 PM)

I agree. Adamek should destroy him and if he doesn't I will be disappointed.

Jay (New York)

"The only thing missing was me." Easy, Mr. Ego. Who do you think you are, Floyd Mayweather?

Dan Rafael

  (12:15 PM)

It was a joke dude.

Klondike, Nashville, TN

Hey Dan, is it me or is BK always trying to undermine and irritate Money May with his questions? Why does BK have to be so combative with Floyd all the time? Where's his journalistic ethic? Your take...

Dan Rafael

  (12:16 PM)

My take is that he knows Floyd is full of it and can get away with that crap he talks with some other media who are just happy to be talking to him. Brian is no fool. He knows the deal and is willing to ask Mayweather questions he doesn't like. The ethic is fine. It's called hard questioning not being in the tank. Nothing wrong with it. I do the same thing when I question fighters.

Newt (Jacksonville)

Hey Dan, I'm on the fence about going to Cotto-Clottey fight at MSG or staying home and watching it in glorious high-definition. Leaning heavily to buying tickets, though (you just can't beat live). Any prospects on the undercard that you recommend catching?

Dan Rafael

  (12:18 PM)

You can always record it. There is nothing like being at the live fight and that atmosphere will be awesome. Iron Boy Calderon is in a solid title defense on the card. Korobov will be on as well as some local prospects. You can check the schedule on ESPN.com that I keep for the full card.

Rick, Marina, Ca

Whats up Dan, i would like to see the Baby Bull take on Joel Casa, the top 2 lightweights that lost to JMM. It makes sense.

Dan Rafael

  (12:18 PM)

I sort of like that fight!

E (Omaha)

Sorry my fellow freaks, but Floyd brings all the scrutiny on himself with his claims his is the greatest of all-time.

Jay (GA)

How likely is a fight between Casamayor-Valero? That fight has "Valero-exposed" written all over it.

Dan Rafael

  (12:19 PM)

If it happens, Valero will need to get a license in Vegas or the fight will have to be in Texas.

Tomas(Tx)

Staying on the subject of interviewing fighters, have you had any heated interviews with anyone, and if so, who?

Dan Rafael

  (12:20 PM)

Of course I have. You don't cover the beat for almost 10 years and not have a few rough ones. I've gotten into it with Hopkins a few times and Tyson. But usually things are fine and dandy.

E (Omaha)

D$$ - BK's statement to Floyd if he should be champion emeritus forever was classic

M.K. (Texas)

You ever been close to exchanging punches with anyone during an interview?

Dan Rafael

  (12:21 PM)

No.

Ricardo (Bronx, NY)

Hey Dan, I know it will not be on TV, but the same way your writing got Devon Alexander a fight, and other awakenings your writing has provided over the years, isn't there something that can be done to get the Calderon fight on HBO? One of the great artists of this generation deserves to be showcased on national TV, to the casual fan.

Dan Rafael

  (12:21 PM)

No. The fight won't be on HBO. Just deal with it.

Tony(Tampa)

Dan, Prayers go out to Mike Tyson and his family with his loss of his 4 yr old daughter. Hope he has a strong support system to get him thru this tought time.

Dan Rafael

  (12:22 PM)

I agree, of course.

Kermit Cintron

Angulo better not headbutt me with his fist.

Greg P (Staten Island,NY)

Dan, did you ever see Duran fight at 135 or was it from video?

Dan Rafael

  (12:23 PM)

I'm not that old. I have seen prime Duran lightweight fights on video. I have some of them on DVD.

Nick - South Dakota

where can you see the Tyson documentary?

Dan Rafael

  (12:23 PM)

I saw it in the theater here in Northern Virginia a couple of weeks ago. Am I Mr. Movie Phone? Look it up you dope.

Mario (Bell Gardens, CA)

Danaconda, I agree that Angulo could be the next great Mexican fighter, but I think that Victor Ortiz probably has a better chance, no? He's younger, he's got charisma, and he's pretty good. Thoughts???

Dan Rafael

  (12:24 PM)

I'm a huge Ortiz fan. I had him as prospect of the year. But he's born in America and not a Mexican fighter. He's Mexican-American. Angulo is a Mexican national.

Edwin Valero

Thank you for accepting me to the Winky Wright School Of Boxing Business.

Dan Rafael

  (12:25 PM)

We have also accepted Tavoris Cloud into our Class of 2009.

Jose Suliman (WBC)

Dan, for giving us props on your blog, we are awarding you the "Fight Writer Peace Ambassador to Sanctioning Organizations" title. Congrats!

Dan Rafael

  (12:25 PM)

No thanks. Shove it.

Briks, Philly

Sucks to see Mike Jones hurt. When is he going to get a chance to showcase his talent to the boxing public?

Dan Rafael

  (12:27 PM)

When one of the TV networks opens its eyes and gives the kid a chances. Yeah, that's you ShoBox and ESPN2 I'm talking to.

Jose (Cali)

Dan sorry if i sound stupid, but was that title of ambassador of good will & peace given to Vernon Forrest a joke or was it actually serious?

Dan Rafael

  (12:27 PM)

It was actually serious, which is what makes it so pathetic.

Jon (DC)

Dan, for your blog on Dawson and Cloud, did you try to get a comment from Cloud or his team? What is their take?

Dan Rafael

  (12:27 PM)

I spoke to them. They are insane.

Ricky Hatton Fanclub

If you can't beat him.... JOIN HIM "Theres only one Mayweather!!"

Winky Wright

I am still the Valedectorian of the Winky WRight School of Boxing Business. Don't forget that!

Dan Rafael

  (12:29 PM)

No, you are the dean.

Vivian Harris

Tavoris & Edwin will do just fine, I'll show them the ropes here at the prestigious Winky Wright School of Boxing Business.

Bronk (Dillsburg, PA)

How long could James Kirkland's prison term actually last? What a shame. Talk about an exciting fighter on the rise being derailed.

Dan Rafael

  (12:29 PM)

It hasn't gone to trial yet.

Matthew Hatton

I am happy to announce I have hired Shower D. Oor to be my trainer for my Zab Judah fight.

Dan Rafael

  (12:29 PM)

Hilarious.

Paul Providence, RI

Dan, was Adamek vs Godfrey ever close to getting signed and what happened to nix the fight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:30 PM)

Showtime ended up passing. When that happened, there went some of the money, so Godfrey was out and a cheaper (and worse) opponent was signed in Gunn.

Winky Wright School of Business

We have recognized Tavaris Cloud's management team as this semester's prize students!

Ron (bethel ct)

Any word if Khan vs Kotelnik will be distributed in some type of ppv for the U.S.? I thought they did a really good job with Khan Barrera card and it was reasonably priced. I would enjoy seeing Khan in action again

Dan Rafael

  (12:31 PM)

I agree with you but right now there are no plans for that as June 27 is a busy boxing day in America with an HBO show and Top Rank's PPV.

Daniel (NYC)

where the heck has max kellerman been? i believe you said hes doing cotto clottey, but since he was let go from espn radio, there has been a huge void in my life. next time you see him, can you tell him to come back?

Dan Rafael

  (12:31 PM)

Your man crush will be on HBO tomorrow doing the BAD card.

Julio (BX)

So will there be any way to see the Calderon fight? Internet feed?

Dan Rafael

  (12:32 PM)

If you buy a ticket or watch it on TV in Puerto Rico you can see it.

Greg P (Staten Island,NY)

Dan, best news out there is that G Johnson is going to get his much deserved rematch w/Dawson...are they close to a deal& when would they fight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:34 PM)

They are basically done with a deal. Maybe some small stuff. But when Dawson gave up his title that was a sign the deal would get done. And since DiBella and Loen Margules, who co-promote Glen, are at the show in Florida for the Berto-Urango fight, and Gary Shaw, who has Dawson, is there for Angulo you figure they will meet in person and wrap it up. Plus HBO is there also, so it'll get done.

DRUNK BRITS (ENGLAND)

"THERE'S ONLY ONE 'NEEDS MONEY'......OOOOOOONE 'NEEDS MONEY'....STROLLING ALONG, SINGING THIS SONG, WALKING IN A MONEY WONDERLAND......"

Rick, Marina, Ca

So did you see the Rafa Marquez fight? How did he look?

Dan Rafael

  (12:35 PM)

I did watch it. He looked rusty. His jab was slow and lazy. But he can still punch. Nice knockout and a good fight to shake off the rust.

Aaron (MA)

what network do you think Adamek and Gunn will be on?

Dan Rafael

  (12:35 PM)

Local Comcast stations I would bet.

Mark (Chicago)

If Cunningham wins his eliminator, do you think a rematch with Adamek would get picked up by HBO or Showtime? With such a terrific first fight, I would hope they would put some effort (and money) into promoting the rematch.

Dan Rafael

  (12:37 PM)

I would think that if Adamek and Cunningham agree to a rematch one of the main networks will certainly pick it up.

Larry (UK)

Floyd said on SKY that he would have loved to have been able to fight Aaron Pryor and Pernell Whitaker. How do you see those fights (in their primes)?

Dan Rafael

  (12:38 PM)

Based on Mayweather's way of picking opponents I do not believe he would have ever fought either of them but he would say he would beat both. You mean the Leonard with the loss to Duran? :)

Steve (NYC)

Prediction on Minto- Seldon?

Dan Rafael

  (12:39 PM)

Please tell me you are not serious.

lorenzo pugliese jr ( Lancaster PA)

Paul Williams vs Mayweather who wins... I say Williams

Dan Rafael

  (12:40 PM)

I agree.

carlos (houston, tx)

Any news from where rafael marquez will fight next?

Dan Rafael

  (12:40 PM)

Nothing definite by any means, but I think it could be fight 4 with Vazquez in the fall.

Matt (Buffalo)

Or when Floyd fought Baldomir with 13 losses at the time if i recall. Or fighting Judah and calling it a title fight after Judah had just lost to Baldomire. Come on Mayweather don't use those arguments. It just makes you look bad.

Dan Rafael

  (12:42 PM)

Exactly. He's very selective with his memory.

Eric(OH)

Do you see the Marquez Mayweather fight being very competitive? Will Mayweather manhandle the smaller Marqeuz? Or will Floyd be too rusty?

Dan Rafael

  (12:43 PM)

How many times you gonna ask? We'll get to that in July.

David (NY, NY)

Dan, this Pavlik-Mora thing is so suspicious....what do u think really happened and do u think it'll def be rescheduled?

Dan Rafael

  (12:44 PM)

Pavlik was in a contract dispute with Top Rank. That is what happened. It will be worked out and the fight probably will happen.

Ryan SI NY

Is Berto cherrypicking by fighting Urango?

Dan Rafael

  (12:44 PM)

I don't think so. Of all the guys out there he is perfectly legit of those available.

Dre Little (PA)

Any news on brother Nazim Richardson? Is he training anybody good?

Dan Rafael

  (12:45 PM)

Obviously you didn't look at today's notebook so you may be banned. Banishment?

Charles (Philly)

RAD tomorrow?

Dan Rafael

  (12:45 PM)

YES! Around 11:45ish. Be there.

E (Omaha)

D$$ - I think I have a new all time favorite KO! Enjoy Freaks! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OhVi7cH-LaQ

Dan Rafael

  (12:47 PM)

One of the greatest knockouts of all time!!!!!!!

Banishment

Steve, I'm hungry. Come on down!

Mikey (Levittown, NY)

Dan, do you plan on blogging about the heinous WBA and how they told both Victor Ortiz and Dimitry Salita that they are the mandatory challengers (even though neither guy has beated a top 10 opponent)?

Dan Rafael

  (12:47 PM)

I've already mentioned it. The WBA is disgusting. It does something like this about once a week.

The Freaks

We are BUSTING at the notion of an RAD tomorrow!!!

Dan Rafael

  (12:48 PM)

Just relax.

Banishment

Dre this is not your day. BANNED!

Team Allan Green

We would like to nominate ourselves for next semester honors at the Winky Wright School of Business.

Justin (Springfield, NJ)

Is Juan Diaz being talked about for an undercard spot on Mayweather-Marquez? If so, is it because the Baby Bull is looking for a softer touch in his comeback fight than HBO is willing to approve for BAD?

Dan Rafael

  (12:49 PM)

Golden Boy has gone back and forth. Maybe on the PPV and maybe on BAD. They're talking to HBO about it.

Concerned Freak

Any Bat Tweets today from the Bat Twitter?

Dan Rafael

  (12:49 PM)

I don't tweet.

Doesn't Matter

Floyd would never give you a second of his time for an interview. The guy is the best boxer and you all slag him. He spent alot of his career fighting the bigger guys in his 130 and 135pound campaigns.

Dan Rafael

  (12:50 PM)

Another typical idiot with no clue.

Marc (Malden, MA)

Mike Criscio's comments about not knowing Tavoris Cloud if he was standing right in front of him or bringing him pizza...HILARIOUS

James(Philly)

Dude why don't you just admit you dont like PBF? Its pretty obvious. You get asked how he'd fair against Pryor or Whitaker, and instead of just saying how he'd stack up, you take a shot. I think Floyd is dead on when he says everyone wants him to fight Pac, but IF he wins, everyone would just say he should've, Pac is smaller. And when he makes a good point about comparing his and Pac's fight with De La Hoya(weight/gloves) no one mentions it.

Dan Rafael

  (12:51 PM)

Blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah.

Aaron (Hartford)

How possible is it that we might see Mundine on US TV soon now that he beat Geale ?

Dan Rafael

  (12:52 PM)

Seems unlikely and nobody in America gives a rat's you know what.

John (NYC)

Who is this Tyson Fury guy that people keep talking about?

Dan Rafael

  (12:53 PM)

He's a giant British heavyweight prospect with under 10 fights. I've seen a bunch of his fights. He can crack but he has a LONG way to go. Right now, he's way more hype than anything. But let's see how he develops. He's definitely big.

Joel Julio

Dad...whats going on with me?

Dan Rafael

  (12:53 PM)

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, the Love Child. Nothing is going on with you.

NYPD Blue, Brooklyn, NY

So how will David Haye be remembered? Another Fraudley Harrison or the new Mike Tyson?

Dan Rafael

  (12:54 PM)

Depends what happens June 20.

Ryan SI NY

Will Manny Pacqiuao fight on Oct 17th?

Dan Rafael

  (12:54 PM)

That's a date Arum has mentioned but nothing is set whatsoever.

Brandon (Arlington, VA)

I love the hand wringing from the anti-PBF section of boxing fans. The man is a genius at playing a certain role for his fights. 40% of boxing fans will pay to see him because they like him... 60% (perhaps i'm underestimating) will pay hoping he gets his head knocked off... and PBF is laughing all the way to the bank.

Dan Rafael

  (12:54 PM)

Laughing all the way to the bank? You mean the bank where he blew all his money?

The Freaks

What time is RAD tommorrow! So psyched!

Dan Rafael

  (12:55 PM)

11:45ish, in other words after the HBO fights.

Joe (NYC)

Abraham's new opponent is a joke. Why doesn't Pavlik just scratch the fight with Mora and fight Abraham in the fall?

Dan Rafael

  (12:56 PM)

If only it was that easy.

Ameican Banks

We have given Floyd Mayweather most of our TARP money, thus we need more!

NK (NYC)

Can you imagine how the negotiations for a pacquaio and mayweather fight will go? Two of Pacquaio's last fights were almost called off because he wanted a bigger share. I imagine this will be a huge impediment to the fight happening.

Dan Rafael

  (12:57 PM)

If they get to the table, the negotiations for this fight will agonizing.

E (Omaha)

I love the Floyd apologists! It's called being objective people. If you make the claim YOU are THE GREATEST OF ALL TIME, you really should have the resume to back it up. Plain & simple

Pete (NYC)

Serious question... and this is from someone who watches just about every televised boxing card there is... what does Tavoris Cloud look like?

Dan Rafael

  (12:57 PM)

I don't even really remember. I would need to pull out my DVD of his win over Julio Gonzalez from like eight months ago.

Patrick (Mexico)

I don't understand why Floyd's fans don't want to see him in a challenge. Shouldn't they be pushing him to jump in with someone dangerous?

Mark (Cleveland)

ohh i finally figured out what RAD means... Rafael After Dark. i feel stupid..

Idiot (RI)

Any idea on Joey Spina's next opponent?

Dan Rafael

  (12:59 PM)

I'd rather talk about Minto vs. Seldon.

Tavoris "My Head Is In A" Cloud

Stop ducking me Chad or else I will write more angry letters to boxing websites.

Floyd Mayweather

In addition to Wrestlemania and Dancing with the Stars, I have now taken a new job, teaching Financial Responsibility at the Winky Wright School of Business.

Breaking Bad, New Mexico

So is Arreola definitely fighting Vitali? Is he ready for a fight that big?

Dan Rafael

  (12:59 PM)

No, there is nothing definite. Vitali still has issues with Maskaev and the WBC.

Chip(TX)

My garbage man told me the other day that he boxes and has knocked out all but one of his opponents. Is it possible he is Tavoris Cloud?

Dan Rafael

  (1:00 PM)

It's possible. What about your pizza delivery man?

Bernie Madoff

I have an investment I'm going to pitch Floyd.

Joel (ny)

Dan, is it true devon alexander and junior witter is set for july 11th, if so, any tv coverage?

Dan Rafael

  (1:02 PM)

No it is not true despite what other outlets have reported. The promoters made a deal but it is not on July 11 unless something changes. Read my notebook for details that are correct, not the misinformation out there on other sites.

DanTheBoxingFan (Nutley NJ)

Dan will you be at the latin fury event in AC?

Dan Rafael

  (1:02 PM)

Yes.

Kumar (NJ)

What's the deal with Pacquaio possibly retiring next year? Is he serious? Hes at his peak, he def should go at least another 2-3 years.

Dan Rafael

  (1:03 PM)

If you really think Manny is retiring next year, I have some sweet land in the Everglades for you.

Raphael (London, UK)

Can't wait to see Korobov again on 6/13- if that guy doesn't become a top p4p, i'll eat my punchbag...

Charles (Philly)

In the video I've seen from their promotional tour, Mayweather looks a LOT bigger than Marquez. Can this thing really be competitive?

Dan Rafael

  (1:10 PM)

He is a lot bigger based on seeing that video.

Dan Rafael

  (1:11 PM)

Boxing Bat Phone. Hold on for a sec.

Anthony (NY)

Have you ever heard a boxer say training camp was going anything less than good?

Dan Rafael

  (1:12 PM)

Only after the fact!

Ben (FL)

I cant believe people are upset about Rigondeaux's debut. What do they expect him to fight Vasquez in his first fight as a pro?

Dan Rafael

  (1:13 PM)

Exactly. He had been off for a long time and even though he is so experienced as an amateur he is a human being and might have been a little nervous. Bottom line -- he got the debut out of the way and won easily.

Beenie (Lauderdale)

Gamboa and Top Rank. Is it a match made in Heaven?

Dan Rafael

  (1:13 PM)

It's not done yet but they are talking seriously.

Keith (Astoria, NY)

Good father or true Freak? Taking my 5yr old son to MSG for Cotto-Clottey, his first live fight!

Dan Rafael

  (1:14 PM)

Bad father. I think that's too young for a child of that age to be at a fight live.

Steve (ct)

did shaw really make that offer to cloud about fighting in chad's undercard and hbo agreed? if its true clould is an idiot!!!

Dan Rafael

  (1:15 PM)

100 percent and Cloud's people even told me it was true. Fight on HBO on the tv undercard of Dawson-Johnson 2. If Cloud and Dawson win, a guarantee that Dawson's next fight will be against Cloud and on HBO.

Nick - South Dakota

why, my son watches fights on TV all the time, he's four, he likes to play box with me, hes got some hard punches man.

Dan Rafael

  (1:15 PM)

Because it's different in the arena than on TV.

Harold, Clothier, WV

DANIMAL, miss your ratin' all the divisions and your comments on each fighter and thier next fight, how bout a ressurection???

Dan Rafael

  (1:15 PM)

Dude are you blind? The rankings are updated every single week. There's a link on top of the boxing page and they are featured every Monday afternoon.

Tavoris Cloud (Fantasyland)

Everyone will know what look like after I headline Arum's Macau stadium card vs. Spadafora!

Tim Geithner (washington, dc)

I want to speak with Floyd Mayweather about how to handle the TARP funds.

Tom (Danbury,CT)

Speaking of retirements, have you decided on where Ellerbe is taking you yet?

Dan Rafael

  (1:16 PM)

It is under discussion.

Brian (Austin, Texas)

Freak status check: I'm chatting here during school in the middle of finals week on one of my teacher's computers.

Dan Rafael

  (1:17 PM)

Freak.

Joe: San Francisco, CA

Just out of curiosity, what do you think is a good age to take a kid to a fight?

Dan Rafael

  (1:17 PM)

I would say maybe 10 or 12.

Nathan(Md)

Aside from his fights with De la hoya, has Mosley ever done decent PPV numbers?

Dan Rafael

  (1:18 PM)

He did very well with both fights against Vargas and also nice numbers for his fight with Cotto.

Oleg Maskaev

Why do I deserve a title shot?

Dan Rafael

  (1:19 PM)

You don't.

Ed Portland OR

if PBF dosent fight for "bragging rights", then he should shut up about being the greatest!

Mike (New York)

Dan ban me or do what you have to do but in my opinion Juan Diaz does not deserve to be headlining a HBO card at this point. He got knocked out cold in his last fight and has lost 2 out of 3. Let him get a good win on an undercard before he keeps headlining cards.

Dan Rafael

  (1:20 PM)

You have a reasonable point. But I would say as long as Diaz is in a legit fight, he's still a top lightweight and makes great fights. He lost a close decision with Campbell and got stopped by the No. 2 fighter in the world in a fight that was very competitive. At least he fights the best guys. When that happens, you'll lose here and there.

chuck (la)

5 is way too young for an intense, rowdy atmosphere like a big fight. take the kid to a baseball game.

Jim (Tacoma, WA)

Do you think Jean Marc-Mormeck can make a splash in the weak heavyweight division?

Dan Rafael

  (1:21 PM)

No. He's older and has no chin.

Hal (Memphis)

Dan, Your advice for Adamek to turn down the Hopkins fight sure turned out great, huh? He went from a chance to be in the biggest cruiserweight bout in a decade to fighting Bobby Gunn off television. He should hire you as his manager.

Dan Rafael

  (1:25 PM)

Now, I'm going to have to teach you something Hal because you are obviously slow. First off, Adamek's fight will have TV, so you are wrong right there. You obviously didn't read my notebook today. Maybe though you are not able to read. Second, Adamek will make a good payday because they will do a good gate and he has Polish TV revenue and his opponent costs 5 cents. So Adamek will get his fans excited, smash a weak opponent while defending his title and making a decent payday while still being right there for a big fight later in the year. That's better than being taken advantage of when you bring something to the table, namely a gate, big overseas TV money and the freaking legit title.

Brian (Austin, Texas)

Please tell me Mikkel Kessler has something in the works.

Dan Rafael

  (1:27 PM)

A court date with his promoter.

Ric (Chicago)

D-Raf, a friend asked me to youtube Saul Alvarez a 18 yr old prodigy with skills and an edge to boot; WOW! I think we may have the next Great Mexican fighter?

Dan Rafael

  (1:28 PM)

I've seen a couple of his fights. He looks like Howdy Doody but he's exciting and very young. He's been gaining popularity in Mexico from what I am told and his fights are mainly on Televisa, which is a huge network in Mexico. So maybe he can also become a top Mexican star.

bill (carmel, ny)

don't forget to remind hal from memphis that hopkins vs. adamek still might happen early next year.

Mike (NY)

Regarding Adamek, while all those points are valid, its no where near the exposure he would get fighting Hopkins. And if he actually beat him, think about the type of paydays he could get.

Dan Rafael

  (1:28 PM)

The point is that Hopkins fight will still be there if Hopkins wants to get in reality about the deal.

John (da Natti)

Why does Caballero deserve a RING P4P ranking over Ivan Calderon? I'm confused.

Dan Rafael

  (1:29 PM)

Because Ring made a horrific decision.

Corner (anywhere)

Come cower in me Hal.

Patrick (Mexico)

Hal stop making Memphis look bad.

Rick (Saint Paul, MN)

Dan, what is your reasoning for placing Andre Dirrel in your top 10 168ers but not Andre Ward?

Dan Rafael

  (1:30 PM)

I believe at this point, Dirrell has a better overall resume. Simple as that.

Ring

We are only 999,999 awful decisions away from the WBA

Nick (NYC)

dan - i read on wikipedia that Fernando Vargas is planning another comeback at the end of this year - is this true?

Dan Rafael

  (1:31 PM)

Ummm no, unless it's in a hot dog eating contest.

Sergio Mora

You wonder why I didn't want to fight in Memphis.

Matt ( Lincoln, NE)

Dan, does Tavoris Cloud now fight Clinton Woods for the vacent title?

Dan Rafael

  (1:33 PM)

That is the likely scenario, a fight that nobody in America will care about one iota and one that likely won't be on US TV. And even if Cloud wins, then what?

Mzonke Fana

How funny is it that I am once again a mandatory challenger?

Dan Rafael

  (1:33 PM)

About as funny as foot fungus.

Steve (Boston)

Dan is it true that Santos-Mayorga is being kicked around?

Dan Rafael

  (1:35 PM)

Not in any serious way.

Greg(Los Angeles)

Dan any idea who Cloud is promoted by?

Dan Rafael

  (1:35 PM)

Rickie Boy Promotions.

Tom (Danbury,CT)

Maybe Cloud can go after the IHOP title.

Randy (Maine)

Why did you not write a piece on the Valuev-Chagaev fight this weekend? It is a significant heavyweight fight, Dan.

Dan Rafael

  (1:37 PM)

I mentioned it last week in my notebook with a section on it, mentioned it briefly in my notebook this week and today's blog. However, few in America give a crap, it's not on TV here and neither fighter was made available to the American media. I have better things to do with my time than chase down heavyweights in a fight I and few others care about. It shows you how pathetic the heavyweight division is.

Viewer

NO FNFs tonight? What's up with that???????????

Dan Rafael

  (1:38 PM)

ESPN has an NCAA contract to fulfill so we get college softball tourney instead.

Aaron (Hartford)

aaahhh ...remember the days when freaks would ask if there would be any OT ....

Mike NJ

Are you surprised at all that Lennox never made a comeback all these years? I am

Dan Rafael

  (1:39 PM)

Not entirely. I know Lennox cherishes his legacy of retiring as heavyweight champion and having beaten all of his opponents.

Robbie- TX

I will be in NY the week of the Cotto fight, do you think there is anyway I could see him workout that week ?

Dan Rafael

  (1:40 PM)

I don't know the exact details but Cotto is supposed to be doing an open workout at some point I think in Spanish Harlem.

Sam (Chicago, IL)

Dan -- what do you think of John David Jackson's comments (also seconded by Nate Campbell) that Pacquiao's handlers have avoided putting him in with slick African-American fighters?

Dan Rafael

  (1:41 PM)

I think it was a dumb comment and that JDJ, a good dude, wants to get his man Nate Campbell the fight.

Michael (Toronto)

So what happened on the Bat Phone?

Dan Rafael

  (1:42 PM)

I got a call to tell me who had been signed to fight Jorge Arce in Mexico on June 20.

Charles (Philly)

Does the WBO have a good reason for refusing to sanction Bradley-Guzman?

Dan Rafael

  (1:43 PM)

Yeah, Guzman is not rated at 140 and doesn't deserve a title shot.

Larry (jersey)

dan--- in your opinion, based on what you've witnessed, which fighter today is the worst with the fans (no autographs, acknowledgement, etc...) and who would you say is the best (Patient, smiles, shakes hands, etc..)

Dan Rafael

  (1:44 PM)

Honestly, I can't think of any fighter who is that bad with fans when they get into that situation. I've seen them all sign and take pictures from Oscar to Manny to Hatton, you name it. Hopkins runs hot and cold but I've also seen him sign and take pictures too. Boxers, from what I have seen for many years, are the most giving athletes I have ever seen when it comes to dealing with their fans.

Berndawg

GOT, Sorry I'm late

Dan Rafael

  (1:45 PM)

Don't let it happen again.

Mario (Bell Gardens, CA)

Danaconda, my brother is good friends with a boxer named Urbano Antillon. I caught his last fight on live T.V. a few weeks back. He looks really good. Have you seen him yet and if so what do you think?

Dan Rafael

  (1:46 PM)

I've seen him many times, including that fight. Antillon is exciting and has a lot of potential. He is certainly a guy with a fan friendly style.

E (Omaha)

D$$ - Have you had a chance to speak to Mike Tyson since his tragedy? A big Freak condolence to Mike & his family.

Dan Rafael

  (1:48 PM)

I haven't talked to Mike but I did write him an email to express my condolences.

Joe (Stamford, CT)

That Amir Khan quote in the notebook is pretty scary. Apparently, he's gone Tony Romo.

Tomas(tx)

Who you got between Guerrero and Johnnie Edwards?

Dan Rafael

  (1:48 PM)

Guerrero, pretty easily.

Allan Green

I don't understand what all the fuss is about Quintana backing out of another fight on short notice...

John (Albany)

What are you looking forward to more? Your next trip to the dentist or the so called "heavyweight title" fight this Sat

Dan Rafael

  (1:49 PM)

The fight. Let's not get crazy.

Jorge Arce

Who am I fighting?

Dan Rafael

  (1:50 PM)

Fernando Lumacad from the Philippines.

Chris (Kalamazoo, MI)

Dan, when Angulo beats Cintron tomorrow, he'll be Martinez's mandatory. Talk about a great fight. It would be like watch Marquez-Diaz again.

Dan Rafael

  (1:51 PM)

It is a good fight. Angulo's people have also expressed an interest in challenging Cory Spinks for his title and Spinks' manager and trainer Kevin Cunningham told me they would love to fight Angulo.

Mike (FL)

You Floyd hating writers are a joke. First you trash Floyd for fighting Oscar and Hatton but then annoit Pac the best thing ever for fighting the same two stiffs. This is a joke especially since Oscars weight for the Pac fight was way too low You guys really need to check yourself into a mental facility

Dan Rafael

  (1:52 PM)

Mike, Mike, Mike. You're a tool. Go back and read my articles and come with proof. I NEVER gave Floyd grief for fighting Oscar or Hatton. You need not only a mental facility but a lobotomy.

Javier, Miami, FL

Dan, besides the DLH PPV and the Hatton PPV, has Floyd ever done great PPV numbers? Its comical how he calls him the "cash cow" when DLH was the main attraction in their fight which paved the way to the big Hatton-Floyd PPV numbers.

Dan Rafael

  (1:53 PM)

He's delusional. He's allowed. It's America.

Banishment

I was going to fast today but Mike from Florida has changed my mind

Kevin (Fall River)

Why is the Cunningham-Braithwaite fight not on TV for Showtime? That seems like a very interesting fight.

Dan Rafael

  (1:55 PM)

Call Showtime.

daniel (NYC)

can i have mike tyson's email?

Dan Rafael

  (1:55 PM)

No.

Nick - South Dakota

According to Australia's "The Daily Telegraph", Ruslan Chagaev (25-0-1, 17 KOs) has yet again withdrawn from the fight against Nikolai Valuev (50-1, 34 KOs) after contracting hepatitis.

Dan Rafael

  (1:56 PM)

As far as I know the fight with Chagaev is on. He weighed in.

Nick, Florida

Have you ever met any fighter in all your yrs. who has a bigger ego than Floyd

Dan Rafael

  (1:56 PM)

Yes. His name is Roy Jones.

Brian (Concord NC)

Next time Floyd's talks about Shane or anybody else not being a draw, someone should remind him that before 2007 there was no interest in Floyd outside of hardcore Boxing fans and that it took Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Vince Mcmahon, and ABC to turn him into the "Cash Cow" he claims to be.

Rich S3 (Stamford CT)

Dan, who gets the blame for Pavlik's lackluster reign as champ thus far? Arum for making weak fights or Kelly for losing the Hopkins fight?

Dan Rafael

  (1:57 PM)

Both.

james - MI

dan: most humble fighter you've ever met? Shane?

Dan Rafael

  (1:58 PM)

Shane is up there. There are quite a few humble guys. I've always found Hatton a pretty humble guy. The Klitschkos are humble guys. Cotto is also.

Michael (Toronto)

DTM, I just saw on your schedule that there's a Philip Ndou-Lovemore N'Dou fight coming up??? Does Lovemore's apostrophe offer him an advantage in the ring?

Dan Rafael

  (1:59 PM)

I'm not sure.

Matt ( Lincoln, NE)

Dan, who would you say has the best chin in boxing?

Dan Rafael

  (2:01 PM)

There a lot of guys who can take a punch but off the top of my head in no order how about guys like Librado Andrade, Bernard Hopkins, James Toney, Glen Johnson, Tomaz Adamek and Mosley.

Javier, Miami, FL

Dan, how is the volume in the chats the last few months? It seems like Boxing is being talked about much more in the media and the casual sports fan is even getting into it with all these great fights.

Dan Rafael

  (2:02 PM)

It's been excellent. I can also say this -- last week, for example, the term "boxing" was the No. 1 most searched for term on all of ESPN,com. The term "Floyd Mayweather" was 7th.

matt, tx

best ref in boxing?

Dan Rafael

  (2:04 PM)

There are a lot of top officials. I think guys like Kenny Bayless, Tony Weeks and Steve Smoger are among the very best.

bk (philly)

gerry penalosa? thats a great chin.

Dan Rafael

  (2:04 PM)

As our broadcast hero would say: Definitely.

Brian (Austin, Texas)

Do you believe Haye when he says he'll retire by the time he's 30?

Dan Rafael

  (2:04 PM)

No.

Gerald (Dale City, VA)

Man the Floyd lovers are really attacking you today. I love Floyd too but if you take a step back everything BK said was true and Mayweather knew it. Get over it Floyd has never I repeat never fought a true welterweight in their prime .Its facts

Sean (Ft. Lauderdale, FL)

Any word on when tickets go on sale for Vic-Agbeko card? Don King is killing me.

Dan Rafael

  (2:05 PM)

Nobody knows. I asked DKP recently and there was no date given.

Dan Rafael

  (2:06 PM)

OK, folks, we have an update directly from the source at Sauerland Event, which is the promoter for Chagaev.

Dan Rafael

  (2:06 PM)

According to the Bat Email, it is not clear if the fight with Valuev is on or off. Here is the message I received: "situation to be decided, we'll keep you posted."

Joe Cortez

I'm fair, I'm firm, but I'm not the best?

Dan Rafael

  (2:08 PM)

Not since your horrific handling of Soto-Lorenzo 1.

Charles (Philly)

Speaking of Lights Out, is there any truth to the internet rumors that he may face Liakovich in August?

Dan Rafael

  (2:08 PM)

Those "internet rumors" are not rumors. They are my reporting that fight is being discussed but by no means a done deal.

Rick (Tampa)

Why is the fight a "situation to be decided?"?

Dan Rafael

  (2:08 PM)

Because Chagaev may have Hepatitis.

Steve (NYC)

Does Brewster or Meehan step in? Can we get away from the Ruiz, Valuez, Chagev, Holyfield round robin?

Dan Rafael

  (2:09 PM)

If Chagaev is out, Meehan or Brewster, both of whom are on the undercard, would step in.

Brian (Austin, Texas)

Chagaev should just retire, it would save everyone a lot of time.

John (NJ)

PRAY Ruiz is nowhere near Helsinki!

Sean (Ft. Lauderdale, FL)

What about Russell? I thought he did a great job in Marquez-Vasquez III. And who do you think is the worst of major refs? (Cole or Cortez would be up there for me).

Dan Rafael

  (2:16 PM)

Pat Russell is also an outstanding referee.

Adam (Seattle, Wa)

Dan i do feel a lil bias on your behalf.. You always post peoples post that bash Floyd but neve the ones who praise the best fighter on the planet... And can you Proove he needs money just cuz he owes the I.R.S> money doesnt mean hes broke

Dan Rafael

  (2:17 PM)

I didn't say he was broke but you can bank that he needs the cash. That $6 mil IRS lein doesn't just go away. It grows.

Bernie (Philly)

Yo Dan, I'm a big Jhonny Gonzalez fan. Are his days as a title challenger now over?

Dan Rafael

  (2:18 PM)

He has certainly taken a huge step backward with a bad knockout loss last week.

Daian, Miami

Dan, In a local TV programs Luis DeCubas said that they were looking for Rigondeuax to beat the record for fighting for a title which is like 7 fights- owned by moore. do you think is possible

Dan Rafael

  (2:20 PM)

Luis has told me that is what they want to do but 7 fights is not the record for a world title fight. I'm not sure if this is the record, but Veerapol Sahprom from Thailand won the WBA bantamweight title in his fourth pro fight.

Jim (Balt, MD)

Who do you think are the biggest duckers in the sport today?

Dan Rafael

  (2:22 PM)

Mayweather, Mayweather, Mayweather, Forrest, Mayweather, Forrest, Mayweather, Mayweather, Forrest.

Jeff (OH)

Nobody's "bashing" Floyd, they're just stating facts to try and give the PBF apologists a little context. He's a great fighter, arguably the best alive today. But he claims he's the best fighter of all time, when facts are he hasn't fought a true great in his own weight class. Nobody's hating on him for chasing the big money, we're only saying you can't claim to be the best of all time when there are legitimate challenges out there that he flat-out will not take on.

Ryan (Fairport, NY)

The list of opponents PBF has ducked reads like a future Hall of Fame induction roster: Miguel Cotto, Shane Mosley, etc etc etc

Dan Rafael

  (2:25 PM)

But at least he's fighting the lightweight champ.

Dan Rafael

  (2:26 PM)

OK, Freaks, thanks for the chat. Hope you enjoy this weekend's fights and read the notebook and blogs. Report back here after the HBO card on Saturday night for a special edition chat, a little Rafael After Dark. See you then. Peace.