Dan Rafael

  (12:01 PM)

Greetings Fight Freaks and welcome to this week's chat! Slow weekend for fights this week but plenty of stuff going on plus there's FNF tonight. So check out the notebook, read the sked and all the news stories and blogs from the week and let's get to it.

paul (concord, CA)

Some media folks are saying that Miguel is an easy out for Floyd. I think Floyd will be even more defensive at 154 than at Welter. Thoughts?

Dan Rafael

  (12:01 PM)

I don't view Cotto as "an easy out." Is Floyd the favorite? Of course. Does the weight help Cotto? Of course. But Cotto is never an easy out.

Mrdontplay617 (boston)

what do you think of the decision by peterson to pass on marquez for a rematch with Kahn????

Dan Rafael

  (12:03 PM)

I think he made the right decision. Plus, according to Peterson's team, there was no real offer on the table for the Marquez fight, just some talk, but not serious presentation of a deal and no guarantee that Marquez was on board.

Chuck (NYC)

Dan, the notebook said that Jessie Vargas will be on a "Mayweather Promotions" card. Does that mean that Mayweather Promotions is actually an active, real entity (at least, more real than Philthy Rich Records)?

Dan Rafael

  (12:03 PM)

They have some fighters and are involved with the card, although Golden Boy, which has the license in Nevada, will be working on the show as well.

Mike (Chicago)

I was so disappointed for Steve Cunningham last week. How much do you think he has left, and can he still win a title?

Dan Rafael

  (12:04 PM)

First off it was an excellent fight. But I thought Hernandez deserved the win. Steve fought well, but not well enough. He's 35, has had a bunch of tough fights and I'm not sure he is what he was a few years ago. But he's still good enough to compete with the crop of cruiserweights around today.

Richie (Bronx NY)

I think its safe to say Goldenboy is having a strong start to their year...

Dan Rafael

  (12:05 PM)

Obviously. I think it's also safe to say that I like KISS, Adrien Broner likes to have his hair brushed and the wretched WBC likes to ruin boxing.

chris (roswell nm) [via mobile]

Hey dan did not agree at all with the article saying boxing is bad shape. Another writer writing about something he knows nothing about.

Dan Rafael

  (12:06 PM)

I didnt write and I agree, boxing is not in bad shape. Are there problems with it in the US? Of course, but worldwide it is in fine condition.

Tickets of Boston (Boston, MA)

Congrats on your team winning the SB Mario Danningham, now let's talk boxing.

Dan Rafael

  (12:07 PM)

YES!!! GIANTS BABY!!!!!!! I will be in NYC next week to work the Epix telecast of the Klitschko-Chisora fight and I plan on doing a little shopping for some Super Bowl gear!!

Samuel (Indianapolis)

How did you like that win for the giants?

Dan Rafael

  (12:08 PM)

I have been doing a salsa dance for six days.

Nick (Chicago)

Dan, now that all the pieces have pretty much fell into place, where does JM Marquez go? Seems like he's the odd man out. What's his best option? Waiting for the results of these big fights?

Dan Rafael

  (12:09 PM)

Good question. He does seem odd man out. Assuming Rios and Gamboa gets done that means no Rios for him either. He has no fight at lightweight that matters. The top 140s are booked. And the stars at 147 are also booked.

brian (ca)

Why don't Marquez and Morales fight each other? Isn't that fight each other's biggest payday short of a Mayweather or Pac fight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:10 PM)

I really want to see Marquez-Morales and have for years. Morales is scheduled for March 24.

Dan Rafael

  (12:10 PM)

SUPER BOWL CHAMPS BABY!!!!!!

Dan Rafael

  (12:10 PM)

SUPER BOWL CHAMPS BABY!!!!!!

@PappaFeez (Dallas)

Excited Epix carries fights, only reason I have the network. You guys do a great job

Dan Rafael

  (12:11 PM)

Thanks. Epix will have heavyweight fights three consecutive Saturdays so we will be busy -- Vitali-Chisora on Feb. 18, Povetkin-Huck on Feb. 25 and Wladimir-Mormeck on March 3. If you dont have Epix the fights are available free on EpixHD.com as well.

Keith (Philly)

Yo Dan, What's the latest on the Rios / Gamboa fight? Gut Feeling: You think it eventually gets signed?

Dan Rafael

  (12:12 PM)

My understanding is the Rios side is good to go and the Gamboa side is getting there. I expect this to be finalized soon.

John (idaho)

love child?

Dan Rafael

  (12:12 PM)

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, the Love Child.

Jake (England)

Whats your thoughts on Fury dropping the belts and not fighting Price? Would of been a nice heavyweight fight!

Dan Rafael

  (12:13 PM)

It's business and I get it. Sure, I'd like to see the fight but the move did not surprise me at all. Fury is more advanced than Price right now and can get a bigger fight than messing with Price.

Mike (Boston)

To be honest, I didnt think Demetrius Andrade's original opponent was that strong for him. What you think of Angel Hernandez?

Dan Rafael

  (12:13 PM)

Unfortunately, there have been three opponents in short order and Andrade was a big favorite over all of them. I think he massacres Hernandez tonight.

Victor (Chicago, IL)

He might not be the most technically sound guy but Tavoris Cloud has the attitude of a real fighter.

Dan Rafael

  (12:14 PM)

That he does. If you dont like watching Cloud, you dont like watching fights.

Brooks (New Hampshire)

Hey Dan - Is Epix doing any of the undercard or just Vitali-Chisora?

Dan Rafael

  (12:15 PM)

My understanding is that we might also do the John Banks fight.

Victor (Chicago, IL)

So Lara, Hearns, and Russell now have to wait until June 30th?

Dan Rafael

  (12:15 PM)

No necessarily. Golden Boy is figuring out what to do with the other bouts at this point.

Charles (DFW)

I thought Terrance Cauthen had taken the Dulorme fight. Did he drop out too?

Dan Rafael

  (12:16 PM)

Showtime wouldn't approve him for Dulorme and I am glad. Serves Cauthen right.

Roy (Reno)

Loved the Golovkin update, realistically how soon until he lands a significant fight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:16 PM)

I think he will probably fight in Europe next and then be here in the US later this year.

Victor (Chicago, IL)

How close is Matthysse-Soto to being done? I am really really skeptical of Soto taking the fights since he has that habit of his of avoiding the tough fighters. Watch him say the money wasn't right and fight a journeyman in Mexico a week later in May and complain how nobody wants to fight him.

Dan Rafael

  (12:17 PM)

Richard Schaefer and I spoke last night and he said both sides had agreed to fight. It will happen.

Roy (Reno)

Dan, why are no networks interested in Froch-Bute? IMO that is a nice fight that I am very interested in. Showtime has invested a lot in both fighters seems to make sense.

Dan Rafael

  (12:17 PM)

Showtime didnt invest in Bute to match him with the Super Six loser. They invested in him to fight the Super Six winner.

Jordan (South San Francisco, CA)

Remember the Danamo, big Nonito fan here. With the left hand not being that bad, any rumblings on when he'll fight next?

Dan Rafael

  (12:18 PM)

No specific date but I would imagine that, assuming the hand is OK, he would be back in action maybe around July against Arce.

Chris (Seattle)

I really would like to see Victor Cruz on Dancing With The Stars if only to see the Salsa TD dance for an extended period of time.

Rick (Philly)

Eli Danning, glad to see Peterson-Khan is going to be in Vegas, as long as Russell Mora isn't the ref!

Dan Rafael

  (12:18 PM)

YES!!!

Rob (Denton, Tx)

Texas always gets a bad rap in the boxing circles. One thing for sure though is it is full of fight freaks. San Antonio, Dallas, Houston, and Austin all draw great crowds whenever fights are held.

Dan Rafael

  (12:19 PM)

Crowd in San Antonio was tremendous and the fans were great. They hung out at the fight hotel night and day and I met a lot of Fight Freaks. Points off though for doing the wave during the undercard.

Steven (Amelia, OH)

What weight are they talking for Rios/Gamboa? Seems like it could be risky for Yuriorkis to move up in weight against such a big puncher

Dan Rafael

  (12:20 PM)

135.

Ricardo (Richmond, Va) [via mobile]

Mario Dannigham sorry im late for the chat i had to brush my hair!!!

Dan Rafael

  (12:20 PM)

That is a reasonable reason.

Tim (Alexandria)

How important is it for Juanma to win the rematch if he is going to reemerge as a major force in the lower weight classes?

Dan Rafael

  (12:21 PM)

It is a must-win for Juanma. A loss is a serious setback.

Rob (Williston Park, NY)

Why did u say it serves Cauthen right? what happened with Cauthen?

Dan Rafael

  (12:22 PM)

He agreed to fight Andrade tonight and then stopped taking calls and never returned the contract while he was making a deal for Dulorme, which he didnt wind up getting. Unprofessional. Just say you had another offer and do the right thing. Dont go hiding.

Charles (DFW)

I propose that instead of saying we are brushing our hair, that we say we are doing a Broner.

slater (west by god virgina)

Dan the man, I got one of those hypothetical cross generational agruments going with a buddy of mine. Who do you think would win, a in his prime marvellous haglar or sergio martinez in a 12 rounder?

Dan Rafael

  (12:22 PM)

Hagler.

Greg P (Staten Island,NY)

Dan, w/Mares moving up to 122...Who does G. Rigs gets crack at first....Mares or Donaire?

Dan Rafael

  (12:23 PM)

Probably neither. Mares is with GB and Rig is with TR. And Donaire has bigger fish to fry in his next two fights, most likely Arce and Nishioka.

tommy (detroit)

Dan, ive now read 3 or 4 articles that say Manny is "slowing" down and it has showed during his last 3 fights. Am I just being a "fan" in thinking that its not true?

Dan Rafael

  (12:24 PM)

Manny is still great but I do think he has slowed down a little bit yet. Still great, but maybe has a lost a mile or two off the fastball.

Alan (San Antonio)

I was at the fight in San Antonio (first live fight)--the wave was an embarrasment. You might not have noticed also, that there were always at least two fights going on at the same time. One in the ring, and one in the stands.

Dan Rafael

  (12:24 PM)

I did, the crowd went wild when the fights broke out in the stands.

Besim (Staten Island, New York)

Loved the 2 days feature on Brandon Rios which that aired on HBO before the Nonito and Chavez Jr. fights. Unbelievable what he has to put his body through to make 135 (or at least to try to make 135, which didn't happen that time around).

Dan Rafael

  (12:25 PM)

Agreed. It was a tremendous feature. If you missed it it is MUST WATCH. Packed more drama into 15 minutes than anything I have seen in a long, long time. The edition of 2 Days will be on James Kirkland, following him for the loss he had against Ishida.

Anthony (Bronx, NY)

DTM, Congrats to our team taking the Super Bowl in yet another epic comefrom behind victory!!! How sick was that Justin Tuck sac on Brady??

Dan Rafael

  (12:26 PM)

GIANTS!! I have been so overjoyed all week over the win. Spent part of last night making my own commemorative DVDs of the game and all the post-game stuff I recorded on the DVR.

Besim (Staten Island, New York)

Any idea when the 2 Days James Kirkland feature will air?

Dan Rafael

  (12:27 PM)

My understanding is on Feb. 25 before the Alexander-Maidana telecast.

Joe (Frankfurt)

And early candidate for worst scorecard of the year goes to: Ruben Garcia for 116-112 Vazquez. Congratulations. I'm sure you will have competition the rest of the year.

Dan Rafael

  (12:27 PM)

It was 115-112 but still very, very bad.

C.M. (Toronto)

Donaire's face was looking pretty swelled up for a relatively easy night of work, wouldnt you say?

Dan Rafael

  (12:27 PM)

Not really. He was marked up a little around his eyes, which is normal for him.

Paul (Arizona)

DTM, Any news on when the press tour for Mayweather vs. Cotto kick off?

Dan Rafael

  (12:28 PM)

Has not been set yet but probably end of this month.

José (Boston, MA)

Dan, I have to commend you on your reporting on Dulorme. Waaay more depth in your notebook than in our very own Puerto Rican newspapers. Btw, what do you think his ceiling is?

Dan Rafael

  (12:29 PM)

Everyone knows I'm high on Dulorme. I think he can certainly win a world title and make some exciting fights. I'd like to see him gain some exposure in the NY market as soon as possible.

crispanic (NYG)

what does the underline mean in your schedule? bouts televised? main event???

Dan Rafael

  (12:30 PM)

World title bout.

Dominique (Quebec)

If Nobuhiro Ishida somehow beats Paul Williams is it fair to say that no other fighter in the history of the sport has two upset wins of such magnitude?

Dan Rafael

  (12:31 PM)

Interesting question. I'd have to think about that but at least in terms of recent fighters I would say you are probably right. Can any Freak think of another?

Erik (Atlanta, Ga)

Breaking News the Giants ran out of the locker room before giving a urine sample... New England now asking the NFL to be named the interm champion for a sanctioning fee of course.

Dan Rafael

  (12:31 PM)

Pay the man, Shirley.

Dan Rafael

  (12:32 PM)

By the way, I am chatting in my office today in a coat and hat because it is so damn cold. My furnace is busted and has been that way since Tuesday. New one being installed as we speak, but I am taking one for the team chatting in the bitter cold with finger freakin' freezing.

Jeremy O' Connell (Beaufort, kerry, ireland)

Dan, any idea why HBO would also show no interest in Bute-Froch?

Dan Rafael

  (12:33 PM)

Why would it do a Bute fight just to have him gain huge exposure on HBO for a lot of money and then walk back to Showtime for his next fight on his contract? Makes no sense for HBO.

julio (dfw)

Is Vasquez Jr promoted by Top Rank only, or does he have a co-promoter?

Dan Rafael

  (12:34 PM)

He is promoted by Tuto Zabala's All-Star Boxing and Top Rank.

Mark (Chicago)

I called you out on Salsa dancing and made fun. I apologize publicly on this chat. It was very insensitive and douchebag like on my part. Can you please forgive me and unblock me @themarkarellano

Dan Rafael

  (12:34 PM)

Nope.

Trevor (WI)

Dan-of-War - love the piece on Golovkin. Hope he makes his US debut this year. I remember asking you about him in a chat a few years ago, and you'd never seen his KO of Bute. I trust you've had a chance to find online. Thoughts on how he matches up with Sergio?

Dan Rafael

  (12:35 PM)

I'd like to see Golovkin against any of the top middleweights. He's an entertaining fighter with a lot of ability and in his prime. He could give us a few years of some excellent fights, win or lose.

Peter (NYC)

2 screens at work. One has this chat. The other is on YouTube watching the Rios 2 day feature.. I maybe be logging in from my home PC after I get fired.

Dan Rafael

  (12:35 PM)

Nice.

Anthony (Bronx, NY)

Link to the Rios 2day, sick...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPzQZbon4hE

C.M. (Toronto)

Was anyone at ringside calling Jim Lampley "Madame" for those preposterous, grande dame glasses he was wearing?

Dan Rafael

  (12:39 PM)

LOL!!!!! Not that I am aware of.

Lance (Illinois)

I am glad here is now a Khan vs Peterson rematch. Didn't you find it a bit hypocritical that the IBF ordered an immediate rematch after the Mares vs Agbeko fiasco but not after what happened in DC?

Dan Rafael

  (12:39 PM)

No, because what happened in Mares-Agbeko were BLATANT low blows.

pedro (miami)

what about rigo rafael marqez, your thogths ?

Dan Rafael

  (12:40 PM)

I could see it being made and would feel sorry for Marquez, who would be destroyed.

@PappaFeez (Dallas)

How much of a bummer is it that Ortiz vs Berto II would be this weekend...

Dan Rafael

  (12:41 PM)

Stuff happens, but dont sweat it. It'll be resked for Junr 30.

Benjamin (Little Rock, Ark.)

Dulorme a civil engineer? Liking this kid more and more by the day.

matt (preston, uk)

Dan, as he made the notebook a Katsidis related Q: How many times have you seen a ref throw the towel back out the ring (ala Graham Earl fight)?

Dan Rafael

  (12:41 PM)

That is the only time that I can think of.

John (Michigan)

DTM, What are the chances that Mosley-Canelo (if the fight is made) to be on a split headliner with May-Cotto?

Dan Rafael

  (12:43 PM)

It is possible, but I have also heard Delvin Rodriguez mentioned for Canelo. Mosley might demand too much money to fit it on that card.

Charlie (NYC)

Didn't Mercante throw the towel back in the Cotto-Foreman fight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:43 PM)

Yes, that is the other one.

Kieran (Arlington VA)

Why not put Ortiz v. Berto II in a place like Kansas City where it might draw better than a hotel giving a bunch of comps?

Dan Rafael

  (12:43 PM)

Berto is not going to go to Ortiz's hometown.

Trevor (San Antonio)

I may have missed this, but is Khan-Peterson II PPV or HBO again?

Dan Rafael

  (12:44 PM)

Regular HBO, as it should be.

Anthony (Bronx, NY)

Read in the notebook that Nate Campbell is fighting again. I liked watching him throughout his career, but i think he should stay retired. Don't want to see him get hurt.

Anthony (Bronx, NY)

What's up with Lampley's Boxing update show? On the backburner for now?

Dan Rafael

  (12:46 PM)

Not at all, coming soon to HBO.

Mark (Chicago)

Is it likely that Ortiz takes a tune-up before the Berto fight?

Dan Rafael

  (12:46 PM)

No tuneups.

Charles (Ogden, Utah)

During a fight card I notice you get the write-ups posted pretty fast (like with Donaire last week). Do you have any of it done before typing the rest at ringside?

Dan Rafael

  (12:48 PM)

I prepare ahead of time with basic info already typed in like records (which I update after the result), some background, the officials, make sure I have the day of the week and venue in there, etc... But mostly I write the entire thing as the fight is going and then put it all together when the fight is over. The toughest part is getting the undercard story done, read over and filed before the main event begins. It is a challenge.

Brinsley (St Albans, UK)

Cloud vs Cleverly....you like?

Dan Rafael

  (12:48 PM)

Sure.

Kieran (Arlington VA)

What did you make of Lampley's glasses? Hopefully, no animals were harmed in the making of those frames!

Power Pellets (Las Vegas)

Any chance of a Pre-Epix Fight Freak meet and greet at the Grilled Cheese sandwich shop?

Dan Rafael

  (12:49 PM)

LOL!! No.

Robert (Houston, TX)

Dan...for the love of God, before the chat's over, say something about Bradley and Pacquiao.

Dan Rafael

  (12:50 PM)

It's on June 9 in Vegas. Enjoy.

ROb (NYC)

What WAS up with those glasses? Did Lampley lose a bet or something?!

Tim (Forestville Md)

What's the deal with Seth Mitchell? Any word on when he might be fighting again?

Dan Rafael

  (12:52 PM)

Richard Schaefer told me last night he will probably fight on the Hopkins-Dawson 2 undercard in the opening HBO fight.

Michael (UK)

Hey Dan, great notebook as always. Is Lennox Lewis absolutely, definitely serious when he thinks Chisora has a chance to beat Vitali? I think Chisora gets smoked.

Dan Rafael

  (12:53 PM)

I think Chisora will at least be in there to fight and that's all you can ask for. He won't lay down and just follow Vitali around.

Cody (Minneapolis)

I may be in Vegas for work over April 14th.....please tell me that Rios vs Gamboa is going to happen that weekend.

Dan Rafael

  (12:54 PM)

If it happens, that is indeed the date in Vegas.

Chris (Seattle)

Manningham's catch. That's all I wanted to say.

Dan Rafael

  (12:54 PM)

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Richard Perez (Los Angeles, CA)

Whats up with deontay wilder? He coming back soon?

Dan Rafael

  (12:55 PM)

He is fighting a scheduled 8-rounder on Feb. 25 in St. Louis on the Alexander-Maidana undercard. No opponent yet.

Bryan (PA)

Dan, I read the other day that Brandon Jacobs loves boxing and has boxed before....True?

Dan Rafael

  (12:56 PM)

Yes, Brandon is a big boxing fan and has managed fighters, including Kendall Holt. Brandon has been at a bunch of fights and is tight with Top Rank. I've had a chance to meet him a few times and he's a pretty cool guy and a big fan of the sport.

Boxingtitan (Da Big Apple)

Dan i need some clarification on this... Was Lamont Peterson under Top Rank? If so for how long? Currently is he a free agent?

Dan Rafael

  (12:58 PM)

He was with TR a few years ago and became a free agent when the deal expired. He is a free agent, although now tied to Golden Boy for the time being after signing for the Khan rematch.

Jose (SF, CA )

Dan, are my eyes playing tricks on me? Did I just read in your notebook that both HBO & Showtime are passing on the Bute/Froch fight? Any other US network showing interest? This is madness!

Dan Rafael

  (12:59 PM)

Yes, they both passed and I understand the reasons why the did, which I outlined earlier in the chat.

Owen (Salem)

I am traveling to LA over the May 5th weekend to visit the in laws. Any chance Canelo will be fighting at the Staples Center so I can salvage the trip?

Dan Rafael

  (1:01 PM)

Unlikely.

Keith (Clifton Park,NY)

Floyd is always bragging that he is his own boss and keeps 100% of his money, blah blah blah. But since I doubt Golden Boy promotes his fights out of the goodness of their hearts, how do they get paid?

Dan Rafael

  (1:01 PM)

They are paid a fee by Mayweather.

Anthony (Bronx, NY)

Epix should jump on Bute/Froch. Any reason why they wouldn't?

Dan Rafael

  (1:02 PM)

Wouldn't mind that at all, but the money Epix pays is much less than HBO or Showtime.

Brooks (New Hampshire)

Hey Dan - Regarding the two big upsets, how about Baldomir over Zab and Gatti?

Dan Rafael

  (1:04 PM)

Good one.

jonathan (los angeles)

damn.......it's crazy how peterson got into the position he is now considering how not too long ago, i felt ortiz got robbed in their fight. also, he's a free agent so damn, he's done great business for himself

Dan Rafael

  (1:07 PM)

Yes, he did. He also gambled on himself when he turned down Khan for $300,000ish because he didnt like the terms to fight Cayo in an eliminator for $10K, won and got the Khan fight and double the money later in the year.

Ryan (Philadelphia)

Dan, what type of reaction have you heard about the pacman vs bradley fight? I have no interest in this fight and will not pay $60 to watch Bradley head butt the whole fight. Very disappointed in TR in there selection of Bradley

Dan Rafael

  (1:07 PM)

Based on the comments in the chat queue and that I have gotten on Twitter and Facebook, most fans do not like the fight and are quite disappointed.

Dan Rafael

  (1:08 PM)

By the way if you are more of a Facebook person that Twitter, check out my new boxing Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dan-Rafael-ESPN/320596341293700?ref=tn_tnmn

Kwame (Chicago)

Buy or Sell - Pacquiao will fight in MSG before he calls it quits?

Dan Rafael

  (1:08 PM)

Sell.

Marc (Claremont)

Hi Dan. I noticed Oscar tweeted you saying he feels Canelo would get fighter of the year in '12. Did he let you in on the fights he has lined up?

Dan Rafael

  (1:09 PM)

No, we haven't discussed it.

Dave, NJ [via mobile]

Rank your favorite Giants' teams among their 4 Super Bowl seasons.

Dan Rafael

  (1:11 PM)

Love 'em all but my favorite was 2008. Just awesome to get hot and then beat an awesome Patriots undefeated team, a much better team that the Giants beat on Sunday. I have great memories of the win over the Bills, celebrating with my boys in college. I was in hight school for the 86-87 team, also special since I was such a huge Phil Simms and Mark Bavaro fan.

Steven (Fresno)

Whos is a tougher test for Canelo, Shane Mosley or Delvin Rodriguez?

Dan Rafael

  (1:13 PM)

I think Canelo is favored in both potential fights. I think Delvin has done more recently to deserve it.

@PappaFeez (Dallas)

ZERO Interest in Pac vs Bradley. And I am a FIGHT FREAK. ZERO POINT ZERO 0.0

Ryan (Lawrence, PA)

Is the Ortiz-Berto fight 100% set for June 30 at Mandalay Bay?

Dan Rafael

  (1:15 PM)

Not 100% but that is the likely date and venue.

juan (my brothers taco truck)

have you ever talked to canelo?

Dan Rafael

  (1:15 PM)

Sure, many times.

Gerardo (AZ)

Dan! Just catching up with the chat! Matthysse and Soto will fight each other?!? Whoa, that will be a war!

Greg P (Staten Island,NY)

Dan, would love to see Delvin Rod get the fight w/Canelo!! Would that be the biggest $$$ fight of his career? Imagine what a win would do!!

Chris (Seattle)

I laugh at people that equate Cotto/Mayweather to Pac/Bradley. Sorry, but Bradley is NOT Cotto, that May 5th fight is something people have ALSO been wanting to see for years, and Floyd was criticized for NOT fighting Cotto.

Charlie (Chicago, IL)

Hows Golovkins english? I feel like he could become a pretty big name in the US given his style, if hes able to speak relatively well

Dan Rafael

  (1:18 PM)

It's decent. Needs some work, but he is anxious to get better at it. We did speak in English in our interview although I needed some help to make it out, but I give him all the credit in the world for trying.

Craig (Colorado )

I dont love Pacman Bradley either but why is it so hated ? Bradelys defensive style ? Lack of power ? Seen as undeserviing ?

Dan Rafael

  (1:19 PM)

All of the above.

Charles (Ogden, Utah)

You said recently that Chavez Jr. has improved his Enlgish a ton. Is he able to give full interviews in English at this point?

Dan Rafael

  (1:21 PM)

Not a full interview but when I was with him after the presser to interview him, Ricardo from Top Rank, who always translates, was on his way over to us and Chavez looked at me and said, "It's OK, English" so we started in English and he was OK. It was rough but he understands everything you say. Eventually, we went with the translator so I could get complete sentences but Chavez is vastly improved and probably will be like Marquez and Barrera and Cotto, where they can speak fine in English.

Rick (Marina, Ca)

Guererro said on twitter his shoulder is healthy and called out Ortiz, I would like to see that match up, any chance.

Dan Rafael

  (1:23 PM)

Is there anyone Guerrero hasnt called out lately? Ortiz is fighting Berto.

Robert (Rock Island, IL)

I for one don't mind Pacquiao vs Bradley, Imo it is his toughest fight since cotto. I think he has a real chance of losing.

Robert (Rock Island, IL)

Guerrero has called out Mayweather, Kahn, Ortiz, Martinez; who's next Andre Ward?

Orlando (Houston, TX)

I'm curious...I know its your job to know boxing, but do you really remember all the fighters you see and their promoters? Do you have them written down somewhere? Also, does Mrs. Dan ever get mad at you for watching "too much" boxing?

Dan Rafael

  (1:27 PM)

LOL, no I have it all pretty much memorized.

Bill (Long Island)

Dan, some of the anti-Bradley seems really bound up in his decision to duck Khan in what would have been a major unification bout. If Bradley had gone through with that and won, even with his style I think the Pacquiao fight wouldn't get these sorts of reviews.

Dan Rafael

  (1:29 PM)

I agree with you. Bradley got rapped because he called out Khan, wouldnt make a deal and then got offered everything he could have wanted, 50-50 and still ducked the fight.

Scott (NYC)

Is JMM locked into TR for his next fight no matter what? All of his best options now lie in the GB stable now.

Dan Rafael

  (1:31 PM)

He is technically with Zanfer Promotions, which is very close with TR.

Mike (Los Angeles, CA)

UFC on FX 3 will be in Fairfax Virginia on May 15th. Will DTM be making an appearance?

Dan Rafael

  (1:32 PM)

Maybe.

Power Pellets (Las Vegas)

Has Mrs. DTM said anything to you about you new fan Ashley Ferrera?

Dan Rafael

  (1:33 PM)

LOL, no.

Billy Parnham (NY, NY)

Bradley will beat Pacquiao. Mark my words.

Besim (Staten Island, New York)

JIM LAMPLEY'S GLASSES.

Gary (New Haven)

Pacquiao will get cut by a Bradley headbutt. Mark my words.

Drew (Lexington, Ky)

I've always enjoyed watching John Molina fight, but why is he being such a punk and dropping out of fights for no real reason?

Dan Rafael

  (1:36 PM)

No idea. He think he's in popular demand and a lot better than he really is.

Roy (Reno)

Dan, what are your thoughts on Eloy Perez's chances against Broner?

Dan Rafael

  (1:38 PM)

Perez is good and undefeated and I'm sure will put up his best effort. I think Broner is going to be a bit too quick for him to handle.

Dan Rafael

  (1:39 PM)

By the way, besides the Epic Giants Super Bowl win I am also still celebrating Duke's 3-pter buzzer beater over Carolina!!!! Austin Rivers baby!!!

Wade (Atlanta, GA)

Do you think Demetrius Andrade is a true contender?

Dan Rafael

  (1:39 PM)

No, he's a prospect at this point.

Dan (NC)

How about that Duke win?

Dan Rafael

  (1:40 PM)

Was awesome baby!!

Gary (Ft. Wayne, IN)

dan--most dangerous head-butt...bradley or junkyard dog??

Dan Rafael

  (1:40 PM)

Tough call. I think JYD shades it.

Dan Rafael

  (1:50 PM)

I'm back

Dan Rafael

  (1:51 PM)

Good news -- the new furnace is in and working! My office is warming up and I may take my coat off in a few minutes.

Charles (DFW)

Is HBO just showing Alexander-Maidana and Broner-Perez on feb.25, or will they include the Sharif Bogere fight as well?

Dan Rafael

  (1:52 PM)

Just the top two fights, not Bogere.

Goose (FL)

Gisele just texted me -- she says you can't do this chat all by yourself!

Carlos (Colorado)

Why wasnt Ortiz mentioned as an opponent for Pacquiao since his fight was off with Berto at the time

Dan Rafael

  (1:53 PM)

Top Rank/Golden Boy. Simple.

Charles (DFW)

Damn, you would think the wretched WBC would have at least ordered you an interim furnace in the meantime.

Dan Rafael

  (1:53 PM)

Pay the man, Shirley.

Dave (Cincinnati, OH)

Just watched the Bam Bam 2 day. If I didn't eat for 4 days, I wouldn't even be able to make it to work. Rios went out and fought championship level boxing for 11 rounds and scored a TKO. Incredible.

Dan Rafael

  (1:54 PM)

I wrote about how he didnt eat for like 5 days just before the fight and it was shocking.

Anthony (Bronx, NY)

DTM, would you say Vazquez Jr.'s stock rose a bit, even though he clearly lost? He was able to at least come back for a few rounds and give a guy like Donaire a bit of trouble.

Dan Rafael

  (1:55 PM)

I dont know if it rose. I dont think so. It is what it is -- he's a solid contender at 122.

Wade (Atlanta, GA)

Lucian Bute vs Andre Ward. I would love to see this fight! I find it hard to understand why people aren't drooling over the thought of it. What are your thoughts Dan?

Dan Rafael

  (1:57 PM)

It's the fight most folks want to see at 168.

Rob (Denton, Tx)

Is there any validity that Arum is wanting to put Marquez at Cowboys Stadium in July ? Exactly who would he fight?

Dan Rafael

  (1:58 PM)

I have no idea who he would fight. Maybe Arum makes Alvarado? There are no major names out there at the moment available to him that I can think of.

Dan Rafael

  (1:59 PM)

By the way -- here's the notebook link: http://espn.go.com/boxing/story/_/id/7560599/tavoris-cloud-champing-bit-gabriel-campillo-fight

Victor (Chicago, IL)

Whats with the Vargas/Latimore Shobox doubleheader? It's only 2 weeks away and no opponents have been set for either one. I hope this doesn't become a recurring theme with the new Espinoza/GBP/Mayweather/Haymon connection.

Dan Rafael

  (2:00 PM)

It is odd and Latimore isn't exactly ShoBox material either.

Slip (CT)

I know it was short notice and all, but I'm not really interested in seeing Angel Hernandez getting smacked all around the ring tonight. You?

Dan Rafael

  (2:01 PM)

It is what it is. Put it this way -- I wont have a problem if I'm not home for the start of the show.

clay (chattanooga)

btw i can't wait to finally see Cloud back in the ring again! what a crowd pleasing fighter he is!

Dan Rafael

  (2:01 PM)

Agreed.

Dan Rafael

  (2:01 PM)

Agreed.

Nizzi (Des Moines)

Any news on Jermain Taylor?

Dan Rafael

  (2:02 PM)

Nothing specific other than DiBella says he probably will have his next fight in Aprilish.

Orlando (Lexington)

What is going on with fights on the NBC Sports Network? I thought they were having one every month.

Dan Rafael

  (2:02 PM)

No, right now they have four dates on the schedule (next one is March 24 with Judah-Paris). More could be added.

Dave (Saint Louis)

Is David Haye any closer toe finding an opponet?

Dan Rafael

  (2:03 PM)

I toe-tally dont know.

David (Alberta)

When exactly did Jim Lampley join LMFAO??

Dan Rafael

  (2:04 PM)

HILARIOUS!

Jeff (OH)

DTM, I noticed that you also follow the Iron Sheik on Twitter. How awesome is he?!

Dan Rafael

  (2:05 PM)

Absolutely a legendary jabroni.

Ron Buckner (Grand Rapids, MI)

Tell us about how awesome Donovan George vs. Edwin Rodriguez will be on the undercard of Sergio Martinez/Macklin on St. Patricks Day at MSG. This fight can't be hyped enough, it's going to be a fight of the year candidate.

Dan Rafael

  (2:05 PM)

It should be explosive. I am really looking forward to it.

Dan Rafael

  (2:06 PM)

Here's my video take on the Williams-Ishida fight: http://espn.go.com/blog/dan-rafael/post/_/id/744/ring-tones-what-does-williams-have-left

Craig (Colorado)

What would you say is Clouds signature win ? Cloud is 30 but both Woods and Johnson were in their 40s when they fought.

Dan Rafael

  (2:08 PM)

He doesn't yet have a signature win, although his best win up to now is probably Glen Johnson.

Kevin (LA)

Dan, Marquez-Rios is a way bigger money fight and makes more sense given Rios' weight issues. Why is Arum so committed to making Rios-Gamboa?

Dan Rafael

  (2:09 PM)

I guess they are way down the road with the fight and he has obligations to Rios and Gamboa.

Dan Rafael

  (2:09 PM)

OK, Fight Freaks, thanks for chatting. Hope you have a great weekend and enjoy FNF tonight and check out the notebook. Remeber to check out my boxing facebook page too. Talk to you next week, Peace.