Brian Campbell

  (2:01 PM)

Fight fans and random straggler alike, welcome to the Tuesday boxing chat on ESPN.com!

Brian Campbell

  (2:02 PM)

I will be here to talk shop with you guys. It's a pleasure -- as always. There is just an obscene amount of things to talk about from last weekend's jam-packed Saturday to Mayweather-Guerrero ahead. Let's get right to it ...

David Lee Roth (L.A.)

The soundtrack for today's chat is clearly some Van Halen.

Brian Campbell

  (2:03 PM)

I can get behind that, DLR.

daniel (anaheim,ca)

do you believe guerreros solid chin, work rate, and south paw stance is enough to pull off an upset of the aging Mayweather?

Brian Campbell

  (2:04 PM)

Daniel, thanks for the question man. I think all of those strengths are what got Guerrero into this position to take this fight and I believe all will help him keep it close for some time. But I ultimately believe Mayweather will adjust and outclass.

Julian Givens (Dallas/TX)

What did you think of Khan's outing this past weekend? I gathered from it that his chin hasn't gotten any better and that in a rematch with Garcia he would probably get stopped again?

Brian Campbell

  (2:06 PM)

I'm going to be put this right out there: Khan might be the most entertaining fighter to watch in the whole sport. From the high-end talent offensively to the constant drama caused from his vulnerable chin, it's really hard not to be on the edge of your seat when he fights. It looks like it's going to be a roller coaster no matter who he fights. I think he can still beat top-end guys, but at any given time it could be over, too. I don't count him out of a Garcia rematch, but don't think he could ever beat Matthysse, Mayweather, Broner, etc.

Jevin (Dallas)

Has Broner bitten off more than he can chew with Paulie?

Brian Campbell

  (2:07 PM)

No, I really don't believe so. I think Paulie's wingspan and ability to box as a legit welterweight with a good chin makes it an interesting fight for a while where we can really see how Broner adapts to a tough boxer in this weight class. But Broner is outrageously talented in my view. I really think he adjusts well mid-fight and ends up getting Paulie out of there to announce himself at 147.

Trevor ((Bauer))

You know it. I know it. Boxing needs a Matt Harvey. Who can be that guy?

Brian Campbell

  (2:08 PM)

That guy is Broner, my friend. Just keep watching. You will see.

Ted (Dallas)

Is Sergio on his way out as a top P4P fighter?

Brian Campbell

  (2:09 PM)

I think this is the beginning of the end, for sure. But I'm not willing to sign his death certificate like everyone else. He looked bad on Saturday and deserved to lose. But I believe injuries played a huge part and if that fight wasn't in his home country with so many adoring fans packing that stadium, they may have even put the fight off due to his knee not being 100%. Then he went out and broke his hand again early. Look, he's still just one fight removed from the greatest performance of his career and one that would've beaten any fighter in the world that night. He's not done. But at 38 and with him being out the rest of the year, he's inching closer to his exit plan.

Chris (Indianapolis,IN)

Is Danny Garcia the best in 140lb division?

Brian Campbell

  (2:11 PM)

Short answer: No. I gained a lot of respect for how well Garcia fought for the first eight and a half rounds on Saturday. I was beginning to think he is better than I thought he was. But Zab dug deep and really put Garcia on his heels. Danny wasn't exposed at all, but he showed he's still a very good fighter -- but not great. To me, Matthysse is the best at 140 and I believe he will prove that.

John (Fredericksburg, Va)

Is it me, or the buzz for the Mayweather fight is really low. My guess is that people are just getting tired of Floyd.

Brian Campbell

  (2:12 PM)

I think you are on the right track, John, with the buzz being low. Outside of his multiple documentaries and reality shows the past month, it really didn't seem like Mayweather did much to hype and promote the fight in terms of the typical grassroots way like he normally does. There may be partial customer fatigue -- and Eric Raskin's Grantland piece on that topic was just brilliant -- but overall there has been a smaller buzz. The final numbers afterwards will tell us a lot.

Karl (Sanger, CA)

Do you think Tim Tebow could become a boxer? He might be a crafty lefty puncher

Brian Campbell

  (2:13 PM)

Interesting question, Karl. I think Tebow is such a great athlete with so much heart that he could be a lot of things had he wanted to. I'm still waiting to see if he can be a pro QB, above all else.

Dano (DC)

What did you think about Deyonte Wilder's KO of Audley Harrison? Who would you recommend as an appropriate step-up opponent for him at this point?

Brian Campbell

  (2:15 PM)

Wilder's KO was impressive to a degree. His punches were VERY wide, however, once he hurt Harrison and you can always question whether Audley should have even been in there. But Wilder's got some buzz now and his power is real. Props to him for doing what he was supposed to do on Saturday. Now I need a real test. A Fury fight would be great. So would one against a Bryant Jennings-level heavy. Or really any tested veteran with a pulse, if you want me to be honest.

Peter (Ireland)

Hey Brian, How did you score Martinez vs.Murray?

Brian Campbell

  (2:16 PM)

Peter, great to have you back in the chat. I scored the fight 115-112 for Murray. I acknowledge that a lot of rounds could have gone either way due to the fact that although Murray had real success with his counter right, he never properly put his foot on the pedal to do anything more. It was also hard to gauge exactly how many of Martinez's shots were splitting the tight guard of Murray late in the fight. I think Sergio deserved to lose, but by no means think it was a robbery of any kind. He got lucky to come out with a win.

Jacob (Clovis, CA)

Brian, I agree 100% - Khan is one of the most exciting fighters in the sport, not because he's a destroyer and knocks people out, but because he is so vulnerable and you get the sense that any moment the fight could turn against him. Victor Ortiz is the same way, but only with a better chin. The excitement with Victor comes because you never know what he's going to do in the ring. Khan/Ortiz would be must-see tv don't you think?

Brian Campbell

  (2:17 PM)

Not only are you right on with that analysis, Jacob, I too have been beating the drum for Khan-Ortiz for years now. In general, it's just hard not to like watching Khan fight. He's just so honest in style and demeanor.

@Boxingtitan (The Big Apple)

After Saturday performance do you think Zab has anything in the tank to make one more run at the title?

Brian Campbell

  (2:20 PM)

From seeing you on chats and Twitter, I know you have had an equal appreciation of Zab like I have. It was great to see him show so much heart after being down early. I think he gets another big fight out of this and, as you know, you really can't ever count him out despite age or past performance. Somehow he has stayed very refined. I'm not sure he makes a title run, but I think he can stay relevant and be in some fun and exciting fights.

Chris (Indianapolis,IN)

Brian, can you shed some light on these rumors that Broner got KO'd in sparring

Brian Campbell

  (2:22 PM)

Broner has again and again vehemently denied he was knocked cold in sparring by 2012 Olympian Errol Spence. But that has been a rumor that won't seem to go away.

Vimel (LA)

Sign me up for Khan vs. Ortiz please!

Brian Campbell

  (2:22 PM)

That would be so, so good. We can sign up together.

Cain (Tempe)

Was that Arreola's head or was that a GIANT DOUBLE WHOPPER w cheese? Couldn't tell the difference.

Brian Campbell

  (2:22 PM)

Ouch. It was a tough visual, wasn't it. Fun fight, however.

Sambo (Pgh)

I'm headed to Atlantic City with a few other fight freaks in two weeks to see Matthyse vs. Peterson in what looks like an entertaining fight. Will you be in the building? And, do you agree with me that Lucas has learned enough from his two debatable losses to become the supreme 140 pounder?

Brian Campbell

  (2:24 PM)

I won't be ringside for that fight, but I'm pumped for you that you will be able to go. I really can't imagine that not being an entertaining fight. I do think Matthysse felt burned after coming up short in two very debatable decisions. He easily could be unbeaten right now. That's really the bottom line. And I'm sure it has motivated him even more to take matters into his own hands. And, yes, I do believe he will be the top dog at 140 when the smoke clears.

JJ (New Orleans )

Werent you in that movie 21 Jump Street?

Brian Campbell

  (2:25 PM)

Oh, how dare you. Actually never saw the movie, but loved the show growing up. I mean, come on, it had Richard Grieco in it. Grieco! Who didn't like Grieco?

Paul B (NY, NY)

Outrageous claim or insightful truth? Stivern / Arreola was among the most exciting heavyweight scraps (to be televised in the US) in tha last 5 years.

Brian Campbell

  (2:25 PM)

I guess by default you just might be right. It was a fun fight and we clearly don't get much from that division these days, especially televised in the U.S. in primetime.

Cain (Tempe, Az)

BC, I did not see the Khan fight from what i read though he was staggered more than a few times. Did he win or was he also awarded a hometowner?

Brian Campbell

  (2:27 PM)

I thought he did enough to win that fight, yes. I gave Diaz a 10-8 round late when he basically battered Khan around the ring without knocking him down, and that left my score 114-112 for Khan. Diaz really didn't do enough to win outside of the two-plus rounds where his punching power and timing came through. And, again, that's why Khan is so fun to watch. He basically dominated about eight full rounds with brilliant counter punching and hand speed and I thought he made some strong changes to his stance. But once he got caught ... it changed everything.

OU Mike (Houston)

What do you think the next step for Broner is? Maybe a run at Floyd?

Brian Campbell

  (2:29 PM)

If Broner takes care of Paulie and claims the belt at 147, I wouldn't be surprised if he faces some of these big names at 140 right after. Either they move up to challenge his belt or he goes back down for a big fight. Not many of us liked that he was essentially skipping over 140 to take on the path of least resistance to a title at 147, but all the big names had been accounted for already in terms of already having fights. So I think we still get what we want in the end.

Scott (Fall River)

Hey what U think of a MAIDANA vs Provoidnikov fight ??

Brian Campbell

  (2:29 PM)

I just started shadowboxing at my keyboard after reading that. So, um, yeah. Love it.

Vimel (LA)

B, regarding Sergio, do you think he fights to the level of his competition? I know he's getting older and he had some injuries but it seems to me he fights his best in his biggest fights i.e. PW (twice), Pavlik and Chavez.

Brian Campbell

  (2:31 PM)

I don't want to sound like a guy who makes excuses for top fighters because Sergio clearly deserved to lose on Saturday, but I don't think you are far off. I don't believe he had the same motivation in, say, the Barker and Macklin fights as he did in his first headlining PPV slot against Chavez, when he painted his masterpiece. And I think, to a degree, the same thing happened on Saturday where he took Murray and his size a bit lightly. Sergio wants big fights. But if he can't get them, he needs to stay dialed in against whomever he is facing.

Bing (Philly)

Floyd is gonna go to the UK to face Khan next.

Brian Campbell

  (2:32 PM)

I wouldn't say that's the truth or it's next. But Floyd did come out and say he is interested in fighting in the UK before his career is over. If that is going to happen, obviously Khan is a name that could be in the conversation if he is still winning fights at a high level.

KT (Milwaukee)

Errol Spence said they never sparred at the Mayweather Club. But they have sparred in Colorado and he's never knocked Broner down.

Brian Campbell

  (2:32 PM)

Well, there you have it. KT with some insight.

Keith (Long Island, NY)

Brian,At this stage in his career would it be beneficial for Martinez to hire a more defensive minded trainer or assistant trainer to negate his slowing reflexes? Like a Virgil Hunter, Floyd Sr, etc. And do you think SOG is fighting next?

Brian Campbell

  (2:34 PM)

To address your Martinez point, I think it wouldn't be a bad idea for him to somewhat amend his style as he ages. But, that's not an easy thing for a fighter to do. Like Roy Jones Jr., Sergio depends on speed and reflexes so much and has been so unorthodox over his career that he doesn't have proper fundamentals to fall back on as he begins to slow down. Not sure new trainer is the answer, but it appears his fights will be fun as he slows down. Heck, his fights are always fun, who am I kidding.

Quinn (Pittsburgh)

Is James Toney finally done?

Brian Campbell

  (2:34 PM)

That dude has been done for years, yes. But, sadly, he can probably find someone who will pay for his name if he wants to keep going.

Rob (SantaBarbara) [via mobile]

If Floyd ever watched tape on his oponents, do you think he would get hit at all?

Brian Campbell

  (2:35 PM)

I love when great fighters come out and say they don't watch tape and don't need to. I don't believe that for one second. Floyd is the best fighter of his era and a genius in terms of preparing for opponents and making adjustments. He watches tape, man. He watches a LOT of tape.

Rob (SantaBarbara) [via mobile]

Will Saul Alvarez be able to increase his punch output? I think he would do so muchbetter if he threw a few more shots each round.

Brian Campbell

  (2:36 PM)

I agree that ultimately the best version of Canelo will be the one who can combine the strategy and subtlety of the Trout fight with the aggressive, combination punching force of his earlier fights. I think he will get there.

Quinn (Pittsburgh)

What fighter trained by Roach has ever had good defense?

Brian Campbell

  (2:37 PM)

Does Oscar count?

Berndawg (CHI)

BC, tell the folks how great the Mares/DeLeon and Rosado/Love fights are gonna be on Saturday night...

Brian Campbell

  (2:37 PM)

Berndawg ain't lying here. Mares-PDL is a main event in itself. And I'm really pumped for this Rosado-Love fight. Rosado is a tough kid with a ton of heart and Love really needs to show us something as to whether he is ready for the next level.

Vimel (LA)

With Roach offense is your defense

Brian Campbell

  (2:38 PM)

That's some truth right there. It's all about pressure.

Joydeep (Philippines)

To answer Quinn's question. James Toney was trained by Freddie Roach for a while.

Brian Campbell

  (2:38 PM)

Another great point.

Guano man (PR)

Brian sergio martinez mention very frequently before the murray fight he wanted to fight miguel cotto next considering what you saw on saturday do you agree witrh me that cotto may have a shot to beat him

Brian Campbell

  (2:40 PM)

That would depend on whether Martinez truly takes enough time off to get his body back to health and how much either fighter ages during that span. I think it's a great fight but I still favor Sergio. One thing great for Sergio that could come out of this -- especially if he isn't as "done" as some think based on that one performance -- is that this could be the ticket to him getting the kind of fights (Canelo, Floyd, Cotto) that he has always wanted. It was always going to come down to him looking old before any big name was going to be willing to take a chance. Because, let's face it, outside of the Chavez fight, Sergio hasn't had a REAL challenge on par with his ability since 2010.

Rob (SantaBarbara, CA) [via mobile]

Do you think Lennox Lewis cursed the heavyweight division when he retired instead of giving Vitali Klitschko a rematch? It seems the weightclass died right about that time.

Brian Campbell

  (2:42 PM)

Thanks for the question, Rob. I was disappointed he never gave Vitali one, yes. It would have been huge for boxing -- there is no question -- and the fallout of his retirement (along with Vitali's soon after and Wladimir's KO losses) set the division back huge. I won't blame all that on Lennox, though. But it was a rough time there. Real rough.

Chris (Indianapolis,IN)

Who is Canelo going to fight in the fall? Please tell me it won't be Cotto

Brian Campbell

  (2:42 PM)

Depends on a lot of things. But if it's not Floyd, and I'm not confident it will be by any means, the Cotto fight makes a lot of business sense for Canelo.

@Boxingtitan ((The Big Apple))

Brian, I'm confused to why Bradley v Pacquiao rematch is not even an option for Pacquaio next fight. Bradley show signs that he's hittable against Ruslan. In addition this would be a solid redemption for PAC.............. Am I the only one that wants to see this fight?

Brian Campbell

  (2:44 PM)

I just don't think Pacquiao feels he has much to gain from that fight. Even despite Bradley's exciting win over Provodnikov, a lot of casual fans might be turned off at seeing the rematch. And you need the casual fans if you want to sell big PPVs. I don't hate Alvarado or Rios as an opponent for him and think not only would the fights be plenty exciting, but they would sell, too, following the buzz of their two fights.

Xio (Miami)

Hi Brian, do you think Danny Garcia is tailored made to move to 147 in 2014 and face Mayweather for his biggest payday?

Brian Campbell

  (2:45 PM)

Everyone loves boxing conspiracy theories and trying to figure out how things are "really" being played out behind the scenes. I thought for some time that might have been the plan but am very happy that Golden Boy is, instead, looking to place Garcia against the winner of Peterson-Matthysse to find out who the real man is at 140. The winner of that could potentially face Khan in another exciting fight.

Rob (SantaBarbara) [via mobile]

Do you think Floyd Mayweather Jr. Could ever be recognized as the greatest fighter of all time? If so, what else does he need to prove in your opinion?

Brian Campbell

  (2:48 PM)

No, I don't think he will ever be recognized as the best. One of the most talented and most charismatic fighters, for sure. I mean, he was not only the best fighter of his era, he was the face of the sport for a long stretch. But I think it comes down to who you fought. If he had done things a bit differently like fighting Pacquiao, maybe fighting some of his other opponents closer to their prime (Cotto and Mosley, for example) and then took on the kind of challenges that guys before him like Sugar Ray Leonard did (move up and challenge for the middleweight crown) he would have a better argument.

John (Bethlehem, PA)

Brian, big fan of the chats, but my boss isn't! I love the UFC and one of the most interesting stories of the last three years is this Chael Sonnen, a middling middleweight, turned himself into a star and attraction with trash talk. Who in boxing could have a similar ascent if they let their personality shine through?

Brian Campbell

  (2:50 PM)

Thanks for becoming a chat regular, John. Much appreciated. This whole Chael strategy isn't unheard of in boxing, either. Look at basically what David Haye did. Not only are the Klitschkos hard to beat in the ring, NO ONE beats them on the negotiating table and this guy Haye went from unknown to the casual fan to getting a 50/50 deal with the heavyweight champion of the world. That's a Chael Sonnen-type move right there. Looks like it might be part of Tyson Fury's strategy, too. Do you want to be an average heavyweight and take a few losses and have some fun fights that only a niche audience sees or do you want to make headlines for your mouth and talk your way into huge fights for the title that set you financially for life? You can see why people go that route.

Cody (USA)

Brian, in your honest opionion, do you think that Pacquiao is done? History says that everytime a boxer was knocked out cold, the boxer will never be the same...also are you surprised w/ Marquez vs Bradley being set? Both fighters will lose a lot of money by not facing Pacquiao..

Brian Campbell

  (2:52 PM)

I was surprised, Cody, that Marquez-Bradley came off instead of Pacquiao-Marquez V. Like, really surprised, to be honest. It's really hard to tell on Pacquiao. He's been at it for so long and has been in some real wars. And that KO was a legit destructive one. Maybe the worst I've ever seen a top-shelf fighter take. It has to affect him in some way. That's what is going to make every fight of his moving forward that much more interesting. I'd be crazy to try and predict how much it affects him, though. We just don't know.

Wilson (DC)

To answer John, Ricardo Mayorga stayed relevant for years without winning at the highest level, mainly because he was popular, strong, and talked a great game.

Brian Campbell

  (2:53 PM)

Good call, Wilson. To me there is always a place for entertaining fighters who may only be getting fights because of their profile and ability to fill a sound bite. We need those guys, too.

Sean (Richmond, VA)

Do you think we finally get Arum's proposed Rios vs Pacquiao that he alluded too after Rios victory over Antillon?

Brian Campbell

  (2:54 PM)

I think we are as close as we will ever be and I hope we get it, to be honest.

Vimel (LA)

If the fight gets made, I think Pac-man pummels Rios like he did Margarito. What do you think?

Brian Campbell

  (2:54 PM)

Depends, of course, on how much Pacquiao will have been affected by the KO. But, yes, I would favor Manny in a great fight.

Sean (Richmond, VA)

B Diddy, Provided Mayweather wins and comes out injury free, do you see him and Khan in the UK in December?

Brian Campbell

  (2:56 PM)

It wouldn't be impossible. I've felt for years that Floyd knows he can make a good PPV out of fighting Khan, as long as Amir is on a win streak and has looked good of late. It's a fun matchup. We will have to wait and see. If they did it in the UK, it would be even that much more exciting as an event.

Charles (DFW)

I would think that if Mayweather were going to fight Canelo he would want to do it soon, as I only see him slipping and Alvarez getting better with time.

Brian Campbell

  (2:57 PM)

That's another interesting point to consider and one that makes me less and less inclined to believe the fight ever happens. It's just so hard to predict what Floyd will do next at any time.

Marc (Brooklyn, NY)

Hey Brian! Since you think Matthysee is the top dog at 140, once Broner rips up Paulie M, what's you take on a possible Broner-Matthysee match? Schaeffer from GB said that it's one matchup that is possible depending on Broner's performance at 147 with Paulie. That's gonna one big, explosive fight!

Brian Campbell

  (2:58 PM)

To be honest, it's just about the best fight you could make in the sport. Like, seriously. It has to be in your top three if you are talking about realistic fights that could happen and wouldn't be affected by one fighter being afraid or by promoters not getting along. I mean, how are you not smiling just thinking about it.

will (fla)

how good are u

Brian Campbell

  (2:58 PM)

Pretty good. Thanks.

GUS (BAY AREA)

HEY BRIAN "THE CHAT MASTER" CAMPBELL!!! TO ME IT LOOKS LIKE MARTINEZ SUFFERED MORE DAMAGE THAN CHAVEZ JR. IN THE LONG RUN. THAT 12TH ROUND WAS WORSE THEN WE ALL THOUGHT.

Brian Campbell

  (2:59 PM)

Well, I think the accumulation of the whole fight was just hard on him. Not only is it physically difficult just to keep up his aggressive style like that for 12 full rounds, but he got messed up physically from the knee to the ankle and the broken hand. Maybe, in the end, this was him coming back way to quick. Or maybe I'm wrong and the big 38 just smacked him in the face worse than Murray's counter right hand. Time will tell in 2014.

Wilson (DC)

I would have liked to see Alvarado get the Pacquiao assignment since he's coming off a big win; not that I'm complaining about Pac/Rios one bit, should be a fun one.

Brian Campbell

  (3:01 PM)

Either fighter would make that a fun fight against Pacquiao. But I see where you are coming from that if one of them deserves it above the other, it would definitely be Alvarado. To be even "realer" with you, I was secretly hoping both would take a soft touch or just take some time off after fighting each other in such violent wars back-to-back like that. Not sure how you have those two fights and then go right into one against Pacquaio. We love it as fans and it sure fills up your bank account, but that ain't easy, folks.

Peter (Ireland)

Who's got the best hand speed in the game right now?

Brian Campbell

  (3:01 PM)

Gary Russell Jr.

Mike (Tucson, az)

Brian do you think adrian broner will fight any of the top 140 pounders ..... or continue to hand pick pillow punchers like paulie?

Brian Campbell

  (3:02 PM)

I really have no reason to label Broner at this point as a guy who ducks others or takes easy fights. And whenever we do begin to label guys like that, it usually comes at a point in their career where they are so established as PPV draws and have already been through the wars enough that it just becomes one business decision after another. We all hate that reality, but it's true. And Broner is not at that level yet. He needs the "establishing" type of victories against the Matthysses or Garcias of the world.

Hiubert (Miami)

I can't wait for Gary Russell Jr. vs TBA !!!!

Brian Campbell

  (3:03 PM)

TBA has a good left hook. But, yes, I favor Russell in that matchup, too.

Keith (Long Island, NY)

How is that Manny over takes Sergio in P4P after two losses, one devastating?

Brian Campbell

  (3:05 PM)

The world does work in mysterious ways sometimes, but that's sort of how things aggregate when you have a diverse panel of experts voting. You can also argue, if you wanted to, that Pacquiao looked amazing in the Bradley fight and should have won and also looked pretty darn good in the Marquez fight before getting KOed. In my Top 10, however, I had Martinez at 5 and Pacquiao at 7.

Rob (Santa Barbara) [via mobile]

Is Rigondeaux set to have a historic career? He really burst onto the pro scene and into the top 10 p4p.

Brian Campbell

  (3:06 PM)

His career arc has already been pretty unique, I'll say that. Not sure how it ends, but the guy is just brilliant theater to watch.

Keith H (Seattle)

On a question I asked last week I found out about the Mariachi Skull Guy. What's his significance? Is it a curse on the opponent? Just looks cool? Good luck? I've wondered about this for awhile.

Brian Campbell

  (3:07 PM)

Mariachi Skull Guy is one of the most mysterious personalities in boxing this side of Al Haymon. I think he's the best thing to happen to the sport in years, haha.

@Boxingtitan (The Big Apple)

Do you think Stiverne is Ready for Vitali after a excellent performance against Arreola?

Brian Campbell

  (3:08 PM)

Stiverne fought well and did what he had to do in order to rough up Arreola and put that fight away, but no, unless Vitali just got real old, I think he would win. His technical advantages would be big, as they always are.

Tony (Los Angeles)

Hi Brian, thanks again for these chats. Love them! Keep up the good work. What's your prediction on Mares vs Ponce De Leon this Saturday night?

Brian Campbell

  (3:09 PM)

Thanks Tony. I appreciate the love, as always. This is going to be a great fight. That is for sure. I like Mares in a statement-making victory. It's not going to be easy, but he's just so determined and aggressive.

Rob (Denton, Tx)

Do you think there is any remote shot of a GGG vs Kid Chocolate fight happening ?

Brian Campbell

  (3:09 PM)

HBO is pretty invested in GGG at this point so I'm not sure it would be possible.

Darren (UK)

Do you know how much say Showtime have in Floyd's opponents. If the PPV does significantly fewer buys than expected could Showtime push Canelo to renew interest? Or would Floyd shoot that down because his money is guaranteed?

Brian Campbell

  (3:11 PM)

That is an interesting question, Darren, and because of the power that Mayweather holds in comparison to any other fighter in the sport, it's hard on the outside to properly gauge that. Al Haymon seems to get what Al Haymon wants, right? But if Floyd's fight sells poorly, it's an interesting scenario to throw around in your head.

Charles (DFW)

If Kid Chocolate could make 154 a fight with Canelo would be bombs (and left hooks) away.

Brian Campbell

  (3:11 PM)

I don't like it. I LOVE it. Not sure we see it until Canelo moves up some day, but it would be a fun video game fight.

Peter (Ireland)

Brian, how'd you score Mayweather vs. Castillo I?

Brian Campbell

  (3:12 PM)

I believe when I sort of loosely scored it as a fan back in the day that I had it as a draw. But you just reminded me of a fight that I should go back and watch again and jot down an official score for. But I think I had it even.

will (queens, ny)

Hey Brian, do you have any interest o be involved in other aspects of the sport? Training? Announcing?

Brian Campbell

  (3:13 PM)

I'm sure every boxing writer aspires to some day make the leap to announcing down the line and I would be no different. But definitely not training.

Liam (UK)

Who would you have favoured in a Gamboa v JuanMa Lopez fight?

Brian Campbell

  (3:14 PM)

Great question, Liam. And I'm still angered about the lack of proper marination there from Uncle Bob as that one would have been crazy fun. I maintain that in their 2011 unbeaten primes when that fight should have happened, that I thought Gamboa would have stopped him late in a GREAT fight. Remember that version of Gamboa? He was really something. Haven't seen him in a long time.

Rob (Santa Barbara) [via mobile]

Will Floyd ever face someone that isn't solely marketable as a sob story or isn't past their prime?

Brian Campbell

  (3:16 PM)

That's the problem that people tend to have that are critical of his matchmaking post-Oscar. I just get the feeling when all is said and done we will look back and wish he had done more with his prime from a critical standpoint. He obviously has dominated the commercial aspect of how he handled things.

Chris (Elizabeth Nj)

Are you a believer in Deontay Wilder?

Brian Campbell

  (3:17 PM)

I need to see more. I'm a believer in his right hand. But what makes this whole heavyweight division outside of the Klitschko's potentially so much fun is that they are all flawed in their own ways and most of them fight in an exciting fashion. The problem is too many of them won't fight each other and are instead focusing solely on getting in line to face Wlad and Vitali.

Peter (Ireland)

Whats your prediction for the PPV numbers this Saturday? You think it will exceed a million buys?

Brian Campbell

  (3:18 PM)

I predict it will be just over $1 million.

Quinn (Pittsburgh)

What is the deal with Gamboa? In that same category, what is the deal with 50 cent's promotional company. His fighters aren't doing all that well.

Brian Campbell

  (3:19 PM)

Above all else, you need to stay active in order to stay relevant. When you are inactive, and then you reappear and don't necessarily look great only to go back into hiding, it starts to sour your brand.

Gerald (WPB)

Do you see Molina beating Ishe Smith for the IBF title? Molina is slick and a tough customer

Brian Campbell

  (3:20 PM)

I see that as a fight that Molina could and probably should win based on how I gauge each fighter's ability. But Molina sure does have troubles getting a fair shake on the cards. He's cursed, haha.

Rob (Santa Barbara) [via mobile]

Do you think Buster Douglas was given an unfairly extended long count in round 8 against Tyson? Because I think Tyson won by KO.

Brian Campbell

  (3:20 PM)

It was a bit long, but I don't think it was unfair looking back, no.

johnny (Brooklyn)

Thoughts on the upcoming Paulie Broner fight? got ringside seats!

Brian Campbell

  (3:21 PM)

It will be a fun event and I'm pumped for you getting such great seats. Both fighters give you your money's worth. Broner stops him late in an interesting fight.

Joe (San Francisco, CA)

Is that a picture of you? or Jason Segel?

Brian Campbell

  (3:22 PM)

Jason Segel? Really? I normally get "Big Country" Reeves or even Ivan Drago through the years in terms of a doppleganger. But maybe that one picture is somewhat Segel-esque.

Chris (Elizabeth Nj)

Is Bermane Stiverne the only thing keeping Don King in business at this point?

Brian Campbell

  (3:22 PM)

Don't forget about Tavoris Cloud.

John (Fredericksburg, Va)

What is your all time favorite fight you attended live?

Brian Campbell

  (3:24 PM)

Great question, John. Love talking about this kind of stuff. I would say being ringside for Berto-Ortiz was my best live fight experience as a fan or writer. Hopkins-Pascal II comes close, but I have yet to endure a moment in live sports that is comparable to Round 6 when Ortiz got off the canvas to knock Berto down. It truly was life-changing and was better than some of my earlier live sports fan experiences like watching the Mets clinch the pennant in 2000 or some Knicks playoff games.

Hiubert (Miami)

Brian we seriously need a good nickname approved and stamped by you! ????????

Brian Campbell

  (3:25 PM)

Hey, that's on you guys.

John (Naples)

Ever since Gamboa dodged that Rios fight that was set already, he has fought the most meaningless fights. Gamboa is very dissapointing!

Brian Campbell

  (3:25 PM)

The fan in me is very disappointed. After his demolition of Solis, he was the guy I started emailing to non-boxing friends and saying, "This guy is the most exciting fighter! He's coming!" I hope he still can get there.

Steve (Minneapolis)

You look kinda like Andrew Golota.

Brian Campbell

  (3:26 PM)

As my legendary co-worker Pezz would say: "How ... dare ... you. I mean, you said it, but you don't mean. You can't mean it."

Julio (Dallas)

Do you like many feel that Mayweather's appeal has been lost since Manny lost and there is no longer the prospect of a mega fight between them?

Brian Campbell

  (3:27 PM)

That theory seems to be gaining life the past few weeks. I can get behind it to a certain degree. The buzz of whether that fight would ever happen definitely kept building and building and both Manny and Floyd's PPV numbers were helped by it.

Peter (Ireland)

Can't wait for the Matthysse Peterson fight. With that said I don't see Peterson avoiding that thunderous right hand. I think it ends within 6 rounds.

Brian Campbell

  (3:28 PM)

I agree with your outcome, but maybe a few rounds later. Peterson has really surprised me with his turnaround. This guy is a fighter, man. I was kind of down on him, even when he earned that draw with Ortiz. But he can take a punch and give one. A real honest style.

Rob (Santa Barbara) [via mobile]

What happened with that Cubans who broke both his legs fighting Klitschko?

Brian Campbell

  (3:29 PM)

You mean Odlanier Solis? He has decision wins over Konstantin Airich and Leif Larsen since that loss to Vitali.

Tim (Albany)

Out of all of the fighters you've seen, who's got the best cardio? I'm talking about sustained pace of offense from the first bell until the end of the fight.

Brian Campbell

  (3:30 PM)

Sergio is up there. Manny was just ridiculous for a long stretch of time. I love what I am seeing from Leo Santa Cruz so far. And even though he's not always an offensive force, I'm not sure anyone has ever been in better shape than Floyd.

Rob (Santa Barbara) [via mobile]

Yes, Solis. The other Solis reminded me of him.

Chris (NYC)

Seen/heard a bunch of people complaining about Canelo's low punch output... do you not simply explain that by crediting trouts outstanding footwork and defense generally?

Brian Campbell

  (3:31 PM)

I don't think you're far off there. It was a chess match in its own right as all good fights are. Canelo's lack of activity both helped and hurt him, but ultimately I give him credit for sticking so firmly to his calculated game plan and having the poise and patience to execute it so perfectly.

Chris (Indianapolis,IN)

With Floyd Sr back in the corner, do we see more movement and footwork from Mayweather or do you think his legs are just shot

Brian Campbell

  (3:32 PM)

I think his legs will be a bit slower, but not shot. But from comments you see and hear, it looks like Floyd Sr. has really been emphasizing the need to be elusive again defensively and not get hit.

KT (Milwaukee)

I don't see the buzz for the Mayweather fight either. But it seems like more of a lack of promotion. You would think with the guaranteed money CBS would be doing more.

Brian Campbell

  (3:33 PM)

They have done a decent amount with the Mayweather special and the commercials and having Floyd on at the Final Four show. But all in all it hasn't been a great promotion, no. Guerrero had a good run there for a stretch but you really haven't seen much of him either since the gun arrest.

Chris Fiegler (Latham,NY)

What does the WBC do if a Boxer Tests Positive for Steroids Or PEDs?

Brian Campbell

  (3:33 PM)

This guy Chris Fiegler is back! Where's the question about the coldest boxing match ever. That was becoming a chat staple, haha.

Chris (Indianapolis,IN)

Brian did you see the Mayweather piece on CBS Saturday? Thoughts?

Brian Campbell

  (3:35 PM)

You know what? I was pleasantly surprised. I thought they did a good job, especially with really laying out Floyd's youth and getting the perspective of his family. I like that they had so much fight footage in there. Obviously it was a Floyd-slanted piece in general, but there was some talk of the controversies and criticisms against him, so it was decently balanced. It was fun to watch, overall. A lot more entertaining than All-Access or the other "30 Days ..." one was.

Ken (USA)

What's your official score for Canelo vs Trout? It looks like Trout won in my opinion....

Brian Campbell

  (3:36 PM)

I had Trout winning 115-112 on fight night while doing the live analysis chat on ESPN.com. I watched it two more times and maybe would have leaned closer to giving a round back to Canelo. Basically I think it was a close fight and could have gone either way. I did prefer Trout's boxing to Canelo's power punches in some of the closer rounds, but then again, that's the age-old debate in scoring a fight.

Chris (Indianapolis,IN)

I can't stand open scoring for fights. Are you for or against it?

Brian Campbell

  (3:37 PM)

Like I said on Twitter, it's maybe the only thing in the world worse than spiders and black licorice.

Jorge (Chicago)

Hey BC....whats up? whats your take on the All Access show with Mayweather and Guerrero? its ok, im not really feeling Common as a narrator. I miss Liev Schreiber on 24/7...not the same with Mayweathers fight building up...

Brian Campbell

  (3:38 PM)

I usually really like All Access, in general, and felt they made a huge leap forward in the Cotto-Trout episode. That was GREAT stuff. This one hasn't been strong, but with that said, I'm a huge mark for the ALL Access and 24/7 type shows. Even when they are bad, I'm still there enjoying them. But if I had to be critical, yes, this was one of the least exciting of these pre-fight documentary shows I have seen.

Bo (NYC)

Brian, what are your thoughts on Khan's power? He does seem to commit to punches, and they come in bunches and literally seem to blind his opponents. Yet they don't seem to knock many people down or out. What's up with that?

Brian Campbell

  (3:39 PM)

I don't think he has one-punch KO power by any means, but at the same time speed is power and when he is on -- as he was in parts of that Diaz fight on Saturday -- he is just an offensive force. His combinations are breathtaking to watch at times. I always thought he was dangerous as a body puncher, too, but I don't see him committing to that as much of late. Remember that shot he hit Maidana with? Now that is a KO punch. Maidana showed some real heart getting up in that much pain.

Wiston (Sacramento)

What are your thoughts on Abregu? I think he's a tough, rugged fighter that can make some serious noise at 147.

Brian Campbell

  (3:40 PM)

I like him and he's a tough dude. I don't think he's a top-end guy and would probably lose out to the very top shelf guys each time. But he's a tough out and can beat anyone on any given night.

Rob (Santa Barbara) [via mobile]

Trout won if u believe in fairy punches being counted as scoring blows.

Brian Campbell

  (3:40 PM)

Wow, this guy Rob is slinging heat.

Guile (USA)

True or False? Marquez is the better fighter than Pacquiao eventhough the official record is 2-1-1. Please explain your answer.

Brian Campbell

  (3:44 PM)

Historically I just think Pacquiao is the better fighter overall. Obviously Marquez is also a legend and has proven to be his Kryptonite. And I say that even though I scored the series like this: I to Manny; II to Marquez: III a draw and IV a Marquez KO.

Rob (Santa Barbara) [via mobile]

Sorry, I really do like Trouts style, stance, and his high level of character after losing. I just can't get over his lack of power.

Brian Campbell

  (3:46 PM)

The lack of pop to his punches that night ultimately hurt him on the cards and I think it came about due to what Canelo was doing. Go watch the Cotto fight again and you'll notice Trout's shots had much more pop. But I think in this fight, Canelo established early his ability to box and counter punch with hard shots from the outside and what that did was limit Trout's avenues to victory considering we all know it would never have been smart for Austin to stand and trade with him. Suddenly Trout was pulling up on his punches a bit knowing Canelo was going to fire back hard in return.

Brian Campbell

  (3:47 PM)

That was a big factor. I just wish for Canelo's sake he had been a bit more active in order to secure a lot of these close rounds. He left that door open just a bit for Trout to sneak in with that jab and paw to the body.

Brian Campbell

  (3:48 PM)

Alright folks, it always hurts me to call an end to these chats. Definitely the highlight of my week. Thanks so much for taking part once again this week.

Brian Campbell

  (3:48 PM)

Follow me on Twitter at @BCampbellESPN if you are so inclined and be sure to check out our weekly webshow "Making The Rounds" for the latest news. The new episodes are posted every Tuesday evening.