Saturday, 25 February 2012

Tyson Fury: Martin Rogan confirmed

On the 14th April 2012, undefeated English giant, Tyson Fury, will step into the ring once more. It's been nearly a year since the biggest win of his career, when he claimed victory on points against Derek Chisora, but the pair seem to now have moved in completely opposite directions. Chisora has made bigger strides on the world scene, losing controversially to Finland's Robert Helenius, and most recently Vitali Klitschko, whilst Fury has remained content with fighting much less illustrious names. Since the fight with Chisora, he has fought just twice, and both times against fighters that some might consider, are of lesser ability. Nicolai Firtha was his first victim, and Fury overcame him with little problems, before moving onto undefeated Canadian Neven Pajkic, again winning it without too much difficulty, despite being knocked down for the first time in his career. Since then he has relinquished the titles he won from Chisora, rather than defend them against mandatory candidate David Price, and instead has chosen to return with a fight against 40 year old, ex-Commonwealth champion, Martin Rogan. With Fury's current record standing at 17-0, you are not to be blamed for thinking that he could have perhaps selected a more challenging foe. 

Tyson Fury and his challenger Martin Rogan face off.
The mancunian colossus stands at 6'9' inches tall and has won 12 of his 17 bouts by way of knock out. He's been touted as Britain's hottest heavyweight prospect, and looked impressive in all of his biggest fights. In contrast, Rogan, of Northern Ireland, has only fought 16 times professionally, and has lost two of those bouts. Both of his defeats have come against Sam Sexton, who was in turn twice knocked out by Derek Chisora, who of course came up short against Fury himself. Despite being 6'3' inches tall, Rogan has a massive height disadvantage coming into this fight, something that is generally considered in heavyweight boxing, to be of some importance. If that wasn't all, he's thirteen years Fury's senior and, before you refer to the age difference between Vitali Klitschko and Derek Chisora, has a definite lack of experience for his age. 

It just might be that Fury has rushed into securing a fight because Chisora is hogging his limelight, and in recent times has been illustrating to the world, the gap that is started to appear between the two in terms of ambition. However, there is also the opinion that Fury is merely looking to gain more experience before he moves up into the realms of quality where the likes of the Klitschko brothers roam. After all, he is merely 23 years of age, so time is very much on his side. The chances are, that by the time he does look to challenge on the world scene, Vitali Klitschko will have already hung up his boxing gloves, cutting in half the almost impossible task of unifying the world title belts. There of course, will remain critics that say he should be displaying more ambition, particularly as many have it lodged in their minds, that the move to give up his belts rather than face the up and coming David Price, was that of a nervous man. Fury himself however has insisted that the fans wanted to see him against Rogan, stating: 'it's about going in there and giving the fans a great fight and I know Martin Rogan, and I've got nothing but respect for the man.'

It's needless to say that Fury will be a massive favourite for the bout, which has been confirmed to take place on Rogan's home territory in Belfast, but he will still have to fight to his best unless he wants to run the risk of losing before he's even come close to world glory. He says that Rogan is still dangerous, and for Rogan it may be a case of 'life in the old dog yet', but I for one will be expecting to see a swift knock out from the man who is ranked the best heavyweight in Britain. 
The pair, as the fight for April 14th was announced.

So it may not have the hype of Chisora vs Vitali Klitschko, or a potential fight between Amir Khan and Floyd Mayweather, but it has the potential to be not so much make or break for Fury, rather than win or break. One things for certain; if he can't beat Rogan in convincing fashion, the hordes of Britain's who place their hopes of heavyweight success upon his massive shoulders, will begin to look elsewhere. 

For more information on Tyson Fury vs Martin Rogan see:



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Wednesday, 22 February 2012

David Haye- Heading for warmer climates

The German authorities looking to question David Haye, over his involvement in Saturday night's brawl in Munich, have been told they may have to wait up to two weeks to get their man. The chaos that ensued at the post-fight presser of the Klitschko vs Chisora world title fight, has been circulating the globe, and branded as an embarrassment to British boxing. Whilst Derek Chisora, who was involved in the bust up with compatriot Haye, cooperated fully with the German police after being arrested, Haye on the other hand, managed to leave the country without being taken into custody, an act which has prompted the German police to contact Scotland yard.

In the most extreme circumstances, Haye could face up to 10 years in a German prison for 'dangerous assault' as he was captured throwing more than one punch. His case is not helped by the collection of images and videos of him wielding a bottle and a tripod towards Chisora and his team. It's understandable that a man in his precarious position might seem a little daunted by his uncertain future. In typical Haye fashion however, he seems not the least bit bothered.

The former world champion had been keeping an advised low profile since the incident at the weekend, but arrived in Heathrow airport yesterday afternoon in extremely high spirits, as he boarded a plane to Las Vegas. Instead of perhaps shrouding his business in mystery, which would have probably been more apt for a man in his shoes, Haye then posted on Twitter: "Managed to shake of those bird watchers on M25! Jetting off to warmer climates. Its PARTY TIME!" By bird watchers he is referring to photographers. 

So as yet another chapter in Haye's turbulent career in and around boxing starts to reach it's top gear, you must ask yourself, when is the man going to learn? Admittedly, pushing yourself out from your contenders with outrageous stunts and a big profile does sell fights, and it's something that Haye seems to have a god-given talent at doing. You can't, however, excuse the fact that this time Haye has clearly cross the line, and probably would have been better served by apologising publicly, and agreeing to be questioned by those that wish to speak with him. Instead he is flying out in a first class seat to he bright lights of Vegas.

Perhaps this will turn out to be one gamble too many.

Jetting off: David Haye jokes with his entourage at Heathrow before departing for the US
David Haye at Heathrow airport, where he later boarded a plan to Las Vegas.
For more information see:



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Tuesday, 21 February 2012

Chisora & Haye- Reflection

Unless you've been living under a rock for the past few days, you will most certainly have become acquitted with the Derek Chisora, David Haye 'incident'. As already explained in previous posts, and well documented by the world's media, the post-fight press conference of the well fought bout between Vitali Klitschko and Britain's Derek Chisora exploded into chaos. Unfortunately at the heart of it all were two Englishmen. 

Of course, within hours of the brawl that saw Chisora hit with a bottle, speculation was rife over whether or not the whole thing had been an intricate promotional happening, in order to sell a fight between the two involved. Others believe that it was simply bought about due to both Haye and Chisora, having fiery tempers, and next to no regard when it comes to rules and regulations. A quick look at both of the fighters pasts will probably point towards the latter.

Neither boxer has a track record to be completely proud of, and both seem to thrive upon finding new ways to gain the media's attention; most frequently ones that leave a bad taste in the mouths of those involved.   Chisora has in the past been banned for biting an opponents ear, kissed a fighter in the pre-fight stare down,  and was once reprimanded for assaulting his girlfriend. Haye on the other hand was in and out of the news during the long winding build up to his world title clash with Wladimir Klitschko, attracting attention with such acts as wearing a t-shirt with the Klitschko brothers heads decapitated, and being held aloft by a cartoon representation of himself.

Aside from all the petty squabbling and of course the now famous brawl between the two, it could be said that it's more important now not to keep going back to how or why they did what they did, but how they're looking back on the matter. 

Chisora returns home a shamed man.
Derek Chisora was detained by German authorities as he tried to leave Munich, merely hours after the press-conference turned boxing ring. He released a statement citing his regret for his actions: 

"I feel I must wholeheartedly apologise for my part in the regrettable scenes both before and after what was to be the biggest night of my career."

"I have let my family, my team and worst of all the sport I love down. I acknowledge that my actions were totally unprofessional." 

"I have let lots of people down on Saturday night, including myself, and for that I am truly sorry." 

So Chisora it seems if nothing else, has been reflecting on his own actions and maybe finally something will click in him that makes him aware he simply cannot act in the same manner as he did, both pre and post fight against Vitali Klitschko. Of course there is the chance that the words were scripted by somebody behind the scenes with a little more brainpower, but Chisora will get the benefit of the doubt as his words sounded strangely sincere.    Currently there has been no action taken in regards to his license, and as he cooperated fully with the German authorities, he was released without charge. However, the British Board of Boxing has set a date of March 14th, for a hearing to analyse his actions not only post-fight but also before it. 

Haye, who left Munich before he could be questioned.
Now to the other half of the Munich madness, David Haye. Haye has a history of appearing arrogant and cocky whilst putting on displays that wind up opponents, to say the least. This latest stunt however is one step over the line, and even he seemed to have realised the stupidity of his actions:

"It is with regret that I feel I have to issue this statement to clarify certain matters, following an unfortunate incident that occurred on Saturday night."

"It goes without saying, I am bitterly disappointed to have been part of what transpired on Saturday evening." 

"I realise I am no angel- and don't mind a bit of professional trash-talk to help raise boxing's profile- but, during my 21 years in the sport, I have never been involved in, or even witnessed, such a serious fracas."

"I also hope Derek Chisora is able to learn from his mistakes this past weekend, right the wrongs then go on to fulfil his potential in the boxing ring."

With these comments in mind, it appears that neither fighter is under the impression that their actions were righteous ones. Although Haye didn't formally state an apology for what had happened, it does seem as though he understands the seriousness of the events and the consequences that have echoed around the boxing world. As Haye is technically retired from the sport, and no longer holds his boxing license, there can be no action taken towards him by the British Boxing Board. Although, it might hinder his chances of regaining a new license should he wish to step into the ring once more. Haye's trainer, Adam Booth, who was also involved in the press-conference incident, was quoted in saying that Haye will "never fight Chisora" and that his time in professional boxing might actually be over for good. 

Both Derek and David have reflected in a mature manner, and one that might hold them in better stead for the future should they continue with this attitude. It will remain to be seen however if either of the pair, well renown for their dubious antics, will rectify their position in future instances, or whether this is simply yet another blotch on their already tarnished time lines. 


For more information and the full statements see:





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Sunday, 19 February 2012

Eubank Jr moves to 2-0

If you've heard the name Chris Eubank before, then you would generally associate it with the famous English boxer, who rose from obscurity to claim numerous world titles in the 80's and 90's. In recent times the name Chris Eubank is being tossed around once more, and not because that boxer is breaking the record for being the oldest fighter ever.

There's a new Chris Eubank on the scene, Chris Eubank Jr. The son of the boxing legend it seems, is taking after his father as he looks to replicate his successes. Last night the young athlete, who has spent the last 5 years of his life learning the ins and outs of his trade in America, moved one step closer to that dream.

To say he is Britain's next prodigy after only one fight is a little far-fetched, but at the moment all Eubank Jr can look to do is get wins under his belt. And that is exactly what he is doing.

Boxing clever: Chris Eubank Jnr (left) beat Jason Ball in Sheffield Against a tough foe in the experienced Jason Ball of Doncaster, Eubank Jr overcame late scares to ensure that he increased his record to two wins in his first two fights. On the under card of the exciting Kid Galahad's WBC International title fight, Eubank Jr was matched up against a boxer that is significantly more experienced than himself. The Brighton fighter however came out strongly, and controlled the pace of the early rounds, landing a number of well timed body shots. All was not plain sailing as Ball eventually began to peg Eubank back, and was resurgent as he looked for a last-ditch method of swinging the fight in his favour. Fortunately for Eubank Jr, he was able to see the fight out as it finished 58-56 to him on the scorecards.

Afterwards the victor told how he had only really had the use of one hand. "I did what I had to do and came away with the win. I only used my left hand. In training a few days ago I jarred my right." Eubank Jr explained, as interviewers questioned him post-fight.

Obviously he's some way off of matching his fathers status at the current time, but Eubank Jr is certainly causing quite a stir. Whether his skills within the ring can truly match the prestigious reputation his name bears remains to be witnessed.

For more information on Eubank Jr's most recent bout see:

-http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/boxing/17087805

-http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/boxing/article-2103239/Chris-Eubank-Jnr-beats-Jason-Ball.html?ito=feeds-newsxml

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British Boxing's Night of Shame


It was supposed to be Derek Chisora's big night. As highlighted in the previous post, Chisora more than exceeded the pre fight expectations many people had of him, taking Vitali Klitschko all 12 rounds. Sure he lost, but he proved he had not just ability, but a hell of a lot of heart. Now that should have been that, and Chisora himself would probably have been on his way home to a heroes reception by now. Instead he is currently being detained by the German authorities.

After the fight, both he and Vitali were present in the post-fight press conference, usually a time to reflect upon how the fight shaped, and what comes next. Cue Britain's David Haye. The 'Haymaker' had been acting as a pundit at the event and so when his duties there had been completed, he wasn't content with letting Chisora receive the praise is was so deserved of. Repeatedly he interrupted the speakers from the back of the room, who included the manager of both Klitschko's, Bernd Boente, the Klitschko's themselves, promoter Frank Warren and of course, Derek Chisora.

Haye speaks his mind during the conference.

Despite pleas from Chisora's trainer that echoed "Security please get rid of this man," Haye was allowed to stay. He then turned his attention to Bernd Boente, arguing that he had already arranged a fight with Vitali and that Vitali was scared to fight him because "he can't do it anymore." Boente responded, stating that "Contrary to David Haye, Derek Chisora really went for it and really tried. You showed your toe." The last bit of this sentence indicates to Haye's last fight against Wladimir Klitschko, after which he blamed a broken little toe for his defeat.

Now it was time for Chisora himself to let his feelings on the matter be heard. A few jibes were thrown, within which he labelled David Haye as the reason "Sky Sports don't do Box Office," and called him an "embarrassment." Insults were in typical Haye fashion reciprocated and eventually it led to a heated exchange of words between the two British heavyweights. The Klitschko's meanwhile merely watched in amusement as the best that England has to offer bickered amongst themselves. Not only did both boxers fail in their attempts to dethrone the brothers, but they were now attacking each other.

This was the point where a cool head, possibly one of the managers, namely Haye's Adam Booth, should have stepped in and terminated the childish proceedings. Rather than the aftermath of a heavyweight world title fight that bought with it tornado of entertainment, Chisora and Haye's tit for tat appeared rather more reminiscent of a playground scrap. Needless to say, it was far from finished at mere words.

Responding to Haye's taunts of "you've lost three fights in a row," Chisora left the stage and confronted his aggressor head on; fireworks ensued. It wasn't clear who threw the first blow, but within seconds Chisora and Haye were rolling around the press conference floor, photographers and journalists capturing every moment of their half-witted lunacy. On a night when British boxing was supposed to feel pride for one of its sons, it was fast becoming the laughing stock of the world.





Chisora and Haye face-off
  
           The fighting ensues


Numerous blows are thrown as the pair exchange
Wladimir Klitschko watches on in amusement

The pair were eventually separated, with Chisora screaming "you f****** glassed me, are you mad?" Video clips seem to suggest that Haye did in fact still have a bottle of soft drink in his hand when a punch aimed at Chisora's jaw was thrown. Once Haye had been forced from the room, the extent of the brawl became clear. Haye's trainer, Adam Booth, appeared to have also been hit by some sort of object as, whilst blood streamed down his face, he asked Derek Chisora who had hit him with a bottle.

Britain's big night of boxing had turned into Britain's biggest boxing nightmare, as it was shamed before the world press in Munich. It even led Boente to conclude "with the bad experience we've had from British fighters we will now look for other countries." To add to Britain's embarrassment, both Haye and Chisora have been detained for police questioning. Although no arrests were formally made, Britain's boxing best were detained over night and not allowed to travel home. 

There is no doubt that Chisora made the nation proud within the ring, but his actions out of it, much mirroring  Haye's usual tactless attitude, have made a mockery of British Boxing. Chisora talks of the importance of role models, and how boxing had saved him from perhaps falling into crime on the streets, but at the minute he's doing about as much for the sport in terms of healthy promotion, as Haye managed whilst in the ring with Wladimir Klitschko. 

We have every right to be embarrassed. 

For the video coverage of the press conference see:

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