James - The Boxing Exchange

The Prowess of Mike MacCallum

THE PROWESS OF MIKE McCALLUM Textbook boxing was the name of the game. J. Monte Mike McCallum, known as “The Bodysnatcher,” was a legendary Jamaican boxer who held world titles in three different weight classes. He was the first Jamaican to win a world title in 1984, defeating Sean Mannion at Madison Square Garden. Over his career, he fought 55 times, winning 49 bouts, with 36 victories by knockout. His exceptional body-punching ability earned him his famous nickname. But body punching was one of many skills McCallum possessed — he had an incredible jab, textbook balance, and pinpoint accuracy. Mike’s footwork was always in position, ready for the offensive assault while awaiting a counterpunch. His career was defining, a Hall of Fame career, no doubt; yet, as a fighter, he fell between the cracks of fame and high-figure paydays. His battle of attrition with Donald Curry in 1987 ended with a looping left hook, another asset he utilized when needed. His three fights with James Toney were nip-and-tuck, highly skilled affairs that the boxing public demands, yet are seldom satisfied. McCallum was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2003 and was widely regarded as one of the greatest middleweight fighters of his era. Sadly, he passed away on May 31, 2025, after falling ill while driving to the gym in Las Vegas. McCallum’s style was built on precision and patience. He wasn’t the fastest or the most potent boxer, but his ability to dissect opponents with well-placed shots made him one of the most feared fighters of his era. His left hook to the body was particularly lethal, often setting up knockouts or forcing opponents to slow down due to accumulated damage. He was also known for his resilience—despite facing some of the world’s best fighters, he was never knocked out in his professional career. His fights against legends like James Toney, Donald Curry, and Julian Jackson showcased his ability to adapt and outmaneuver aggressive opponents. McCallum’s defensive skills were equally impressive. He had a strong chin and excellent head movement, enabling him to absorb punches without taking excessive damage. His ability to control the pace of a fight and dictate exchanges made him a nightmare for anyone who stepped into the ring with him. Top fights of Mike’s career Mike McCallum vs. Julian Jackson (1986) – McCallum faced the hard-hitting Julian Jackson, who was undefeated at the time. Despite Jackson’s power, McCallum stopped him in the second round, proving his defensive mastery and ability to withstand heavy punches. Mike McCallum vs. Milton McCrory (1987) – McCallum defended his WBA super-welterweight title by stopping McCrory in the 10th round, showcasing his ability to break down opponents over time. Mike McCallum vs. Donald Curry (1987) – McCallum knocked out Curry in the fifth round with a perfectly timed left hook, cementing his reputation as one of the best body punchers in boxing history. Mike McCallum vs. James Toney (1991) – This was the first fight in their trilogy, ending in a controversial draw. McCallum’s technical ability and body shots challenged Toney, making it one of the most competitive fights of his career. Mike McCallum vs. James Toney (1992) – Their rematch was another intense battle, with Toney winning by majority decision. McCallum’s ability to adapt and challenge Toney made this fight a classic. I first encountered McCallum after he defeated Ross D’Amico in the amateurs in the late 1970s. D’Amico had been a classmate at La Salle Academy High School in Manhattan and was considered a rising star in the amateur ranks, garnering coverage on the local network. Little did I know then that the fighter who defeated Ross would become a top-ranked world boxer ten years later. I also met him through the years, thanks to the sponsorship of Spartan and its owner, Ed Post, who had dressed him numerous times in his career. Mike was training fighters at the famous Tocco’s gym, then moved over to Mayweather’s gym when Tocco’s closed. He had been living in Las Vegas for several years. Mike McCallum’s boxing record Mike McCallum Wiki -JLM- Boxing Kid Management’s David Selwyn WITH Mike McCallum 1989

The Prowess of Mike MacCallum Read More »

World Boxing to introduce mandatory sex testing

CURRENT EVENTS / James

WORLD BOXING to introduce mandatory Sex testing for all boxers who want to participate in its competitions LAUSANNE, Switzerland (May 30, 2025) — World Boxing will introduce mandatory sex testing to determine the eligibility of male and female athletes who want to take part in its competitions. The introduction of compulsory testing will be part of a new policy on “Sex, Age and Weight” to ensure the safety of all participants and deliver a competitive level playing field for men and women. The policy is in the final stages of development and has been crafted by a specially convened Working Group of the World Boxing Medical and Anti-Doping Committee. This group has examined data and medical evidence from a wide range of sources and consulted extensively with other sports experts worldwide. In light of plans to introduce this policy and the particular circumstances surrounding some boxers that competed at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, World Boxing has written to the Algerian Boxing Federation to inform it that Imane Khelif will not be allowed to participate in the female category at the Eindhoven Box Cup or any World Boxing event until Imane Khelif undergoes sex testing. This decision reflects concerns over the safety and well-being of all boxers, including Imane Khelif, and aims to protect the mental and physical health of all participants in light of some of the reactions that have been expressed in relation to the boxer’s potential participation at the Eindhoven Box Cup. The letter sent by World Boxing to the Algerian Boxing Federation on May 30, 2025, states: “Imane Khelif may not participate in the female category at the Eindhoven Box Cup, 5-10 June 2025, and any World Boxing event until Imane Khelif undergoes genetic sex screening in accordance with World Boxing’s rules and testing procedures. “In accordance with the World Boxing Statutes, amendments to the Competition Rules are typically made by Congress. However, under special or emergency circumstances, the World Boxing Executive Board holds the authority to make immediate amendments when a rule is deemed no longer functional or when evolving conditions necessitate a change. “In May 2025, the Executive Board exercised this authority and adopted new eligibility criteria for participation in sex-specific boxing categories. These new eligibility rules were developed with the express purpose of safeguarding athletes in combat sports, particularly given the physical risks associated with Olympic-style boxing. “Please be advised that, per World Boxing policy, “…in the event the athlete’s sex certification is challenged by the athlete’s federation or by World Boxing, the athlete shall be ineligible to compete until the dispute is resolved…” This decision is designed solely to ensure the health and safety of all participants in World Boxing competitions (including Imane Khelif). It is not intended to prejudge the outcome of any testing that may be introduced as part of the new policy on “Sex, Age and Weight”. World Boxing’s new policy and the introduction of testing will mean that all athletes over the age of 18 who wish to participate in a World Boxing-owned or sanctioned competition will be required to undergo a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) genetic test to determine their sex at birth and their eligibility to compete. The PCR test is a laboratory technique used to detect specific genetic material, in this case the SRY gene, that reveals the presence of the Y chromosome, which is an indicator of biological sex. The test can be conducted by nasal/mouth swab, saliva or blood. Athletes who are deemed to be male at birth, as evidenced by the presence of Y chromosome genetic material (the SRY gene) or with a difference of sexual development (DSD) where male androgenization occurs, will be eligible to compete in the male category. Athletes who are deemed to be female at birth, as evidenced by the presence of XX chromosomes or the absence of Y chromosome genetic material (the SRY gene) or with a DSD where male androgenization does not occur, will be eligible to compete in the female category. World Boxing respects the dignity of all individuals and its overriding priority is to ensure safety and competitive fairness to all athletes. To do this, it is essential that strict categories, determined by sex, are maintained and enforced, which means that World Boxing will only operate competitions for athletes categorized as male or female. Under the new policy, National Federations will be responsible for testing. They will be required to confirm the sex of their athletes when entering them into World Boxing competitions by providing a certification of their chromosomal sex, as determined by a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. Failure to provide certification of the chromosomal sex of an athlete or the provision of false certification will render the athlete ineligible to compete and may result in sanctions against the athlete and/or their National Federation. Where test results for boxers who wish to compete in the female category reveal Y-chromosome genetic material and a potential DSD, the initial screenings will be referred to independent clinical specialists for genetic screening, hormonal profiles, anatomical examination, or other evaluations of endocrine profiles by medical specialists. As part of its new policy, World Boxing will reserve the right to do genetic sex screening on new or existing athlete samples to confirm certification. The policy will include an appeals process. Support will be offered to any boxers who provide an adverse test result. The new “Sex, Age, and Weight” policy will take effect on July 1, 2025. World Boxing was launched in April 2023 with a mission to ensure that boxing remains at the heart of the Olympic movement. It held its first formal meeting with the IOC in May 2024, and on February 25, 2025, it was granted provisional recognition by the IOC as the International Federation (IF) within the Olympic Movement governing the sport of boxing at the world level. On March 20, 2025, the IOC confirmed that boxing has been restored to the sports program for LA28. For further information on World Boxing, please visit

World Boxing to introduce mandatory sex testing Read More »

Unsentimental Honesty Fat City (1972)

FILM / James

Unsentimental Honesty – The Story of “Fat City.” The truth about a small-town boxer, and the epic struggles within that community and the hopes and dreams of both youth and old, and the endeavors of life that is captured on film. This is the story of “Fat City.” “Fat City” is a 1972 American sports drama film directed by John Huston and based on the novel by Leonard Gardner. The film stars Stacy Keach, Jeff Bridges, Susan Tyrrell, and Candy Clark in her film debut. It follows the story of Billy Tully, a former champion boxer struggling with his past, and Ernie Munger, a young fighter on the rise. The film explores themes of ambition, failure, and the harsh realities of life in the boxing world. “Fat City” was well-received by critics and is considered one of Huston’s finest films. Susan Tyrrell was even nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance. “Fat City” explores several deep and poignant themes, making it a standout in the sports drama genre: Failure and Disillusionment – The film presents a raw and unfiltered look at the struggles of boxers who never quite make it to the top. It highlights the harsh realities of ambition and the inevitability of decline. The Cycle of Poverty – The characters live in a world where economic hardship is a constant battle. The film portrays the gritty, working-class existence of those chasing dreams that often remain out of reach. Hope vs. Reality – Despite their circumstances, the characters cling to hope and optimism, even when the odds are stacked against them. This contrast between dreams and reality is a central theme. Loneliness and Human Connection – The film delves into the emotional isolation of its characters, showing how they seek companionship and meaning in a world that often feels indifferent. John Huston’s direction brings these themes to life with unsentimental honesty, making Fat City a powerful and thought-provoking film. “Fat City” features a cast of compelling characters, each navigating their own struggles: Billy Tully (Stacy Keach) – A former boxer past his prime, trying to reclaim his lost glory while battling personal demons. Ernie Munger (Jeff Bridges) – A young, inexperienced fighter with potential, but uncertain about his future in boxing. Oma Lee Greer (Susan Tyrrell) – A volatile and emotionally complex woman who becomes involved with Tully. Faye (Candy Clark) – Ernie’s girlfriend, who pressures him into marriage. Ruben (Nicholas Colasanto) – A boxing trainer and manager who plays a key role in shaping Ernie’s career. Lucero (Sixto Rodriguez) – An aging Mexican boxer who faces Tully in a pivotal match.

Unsentimental Honesty Fat City (1972) Read More »

International Boxing Hall Of Fame Weekend 2025

CURRENT EVENTS / James

IBHOF Weekend kicks off June 5-8th The International Boxing Hall of Fame will host its 2025 Induction Weekend from June 5-8 in Canastota, New York. This year’s inductees include legendary fighters Manny Pacquiao, Vinny Paz, and Michael Nunn in the Men’s Modern category, alongside Yessica Chavez, Anne Sophie Mathis, and Mary Jo Sanders in the Women’s Modern category. Other honorees include referee Kenny Bayless, cut man Al Gavin, and referee Harry Gibbs in the Non-Participant category, as well as broadcaster Randy Gordon and television producer Ross Greenburg in the Observer category. The event will feature ringside talks, a fight night, a 5K race, autograph sessions, a banquet, a parade, and the official induction ceremony. Fight Night Join us, The Boxing Exchange Network, at the memorabilia show on Saturday, June 7th, where we have a booth from 10-3pm, with a variety of historical items and items that can be signed by your favorite fighter.

International Boxing Hall Of Fame Weekend 2025 Read More »

The Boxer- – Gleason’s Gym, New York

HISTORICAL / James

Vincent Piazza reads The Boxer by Gabriele Tinti Vincent Piazza reads The Boxer by Gabriele Tinti Eris Press is pleased to announce the event The Boxer, a reading by actor Vincent Piazza of poems by Gabriele Tinti to celebrate the publication of the limited edition of Ruins. The event will take place at the legendary Gleason’s Gym on Saturday, April 26, at 6:30 PM, in collaboration with DiBella Entertainment, with the participation of…..The hospitality partner for the event is Wythe Hotel. The event coincides with the launch of the limited edition volume, published by Eris Press (London, New York). It features an unpublished poem inspired by The Boxer at Rest, one of the greatest masterpieces of ancient art. The FLAG Art Foundation in Chelsea used a line from Gabriele Tinti’s Boxer poems—featured in the book—as the title of their 2024 exhibition. The exhibition included works by renowned artists such as George Bellows, Edward Hopper, Eadweard Muybridge, Paul Pfeiffer, and Ed Ruscha. It was also presented at the Miami Norton Museum of Art in Fall 2024 (link). The limited edition contains commentary by Paul Zanker (Scuola Normale Superiore in Pisa), Jerry Saltz (art critic), Daniela Porro (Superintendent of Cultural Heritage of Rome),Mirella Serlorenzi (Director of the Baths of Caracalla), Kasia Boddy (University of Cambridge), Carol C. Mattusch (George Mason University), Sean Hemingway (The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York) and Vinzenz Brinkmann (Liebieghaus Skulpturensammlung). Gleason’s Gym 130 Water St. Brooklyn [email protected] R.S.V.P. I enriched my knowledge of boxing by reading Gabriele’s poems. Nino Benvenuti Undisputed super-welterweight and middleweight Champion of the World The boxer is exhausted. The severe wounds on his face bleed and hurt. His gaze towards the judges is anxious. Even the strongest among us is just a man, vulnerable and full of fear, as Gabriele Tinti’s verses remind us. Paul Zanker Professor of Ancient Art History at the Scuola Normale Superiore in Pisa Gabrielle Tinti is an Italian poet. He has worked with the J. Paul Getty Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the British Museum, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the Capitolini Museums (among many other institutions), and his poems have been performed by actors including Abel Ferrara, Willem Dafoe, and Kevin Spacey. In 2018, his ekphrastic poetry project Ruins was awarded the Premio Montale with a ceremony at the Museo Nazionale Romano in Palazzo Altemps. His recent publications are Last Words (Milan: Skira Rizzoli, 2016), The Earth Will Come To Laugh and To Feast (New York: Powerhouse Books, 2020), Ruins (London: Eris Press; Milan: Libri Scheiwiller, 2021), Bleedings (Milan: La Nave di Teseo, 2022; New York: Contra Mundum Press, 2023), Confessions (London: Eris Press), and Hungry Ghosts (London: Eris Press, 2024). Vincent Piazza is an American actor known for his roles in film and television. He starred as Lucky Luciano in the acclaimed series Boardwalk Empire and portrayed Tommy DeVito in Clint Eastwood’s film adaptation of Jersey Boys. With a background in both drama and independent cinema, he has built a diverse career, bringing depth and authenticity to his performances.

The Boxer- – Gleason’s Gym, New York Read More »

The Setup (1949)

FILM / James

“The Setup” American film (1949) “The Set-Up” is a 1949 American film noir boxing drama directed by Robert Wise. It stars Robert Ryan as Bill “Stoker” Thompson, an aging boxer who defies gangsters by refusing to throw his last fight. The film is based on a 1928 narrative poem by Joseph Moncure March. The story unfolds in real-time, capturing the tension and drama of Stoker’s fight against a younger, mob-controlled opponent. Despite the odds, Stoker wins the match but faces brutal consequences for his decision. The film is celebrated for its gritty realism and compelling performances. Bill “Stoker” Thompson, a 35-year-old veteran boxer, is about to take on a 23-year-old Tiger Nelson at the local arena. His wife, Julie, fears this fight may be his last and wants him to quit boxing for good. Although Stoker gives her a ringside seat, she declines. Stoker’s manager, sure that he will continue to lose fights, takes money for a loss from a mobster. He is so sure of Stoker’s failure that he does not inform the boxer of the setup. But Stoker still has a dream left in him. He still feels one punch away from a shot at the title, and we learn that the other fighters in the dressing room also have dreams. Stoker and Julie passionately debate whether he should participate in the fight. Julie tells him that she has a headache and won’t attend. The fighters enter the dressing room after their bouts as the night rolls on. Some win, some lose, but all have dreams. At the beginning of the fourth round of what is a vicious match with the much younger and heavily favored Tiger Nelson, Stoker learns about the fix. Even though he is told that Little Boy, a feared gangster, is behind the set-up, he refuses to give up the fight. Stoker wins the vocal support of blood-thirsty fans who had at first rooted for Tiger Nelson. He eventually defeats Nelson. Stoker pays for his decision with a beating in an alley outside the arena. The group, including Nelson, irreparably damages Stoker’s hand by smashing it with a brick. Julie notices her husband from the hotel room. Stoker staggers out of the alley and collapses into Julie’s arms. “I won tonight,” he tells her, both realizing he can never fight again. “Yes,” she answers. “You won tonight. We both won tonight.” Special Thanks to Wally Matthews for hosting the Film at the Cinema Center in Huntington, New York. Next Date is May 22nd at 730 pm “Fat City” starring Stacy Keach and the original Golden Boy, Art Aragon.

The Setup (1949) Read More »

Johnson Vs Ketchel 1909

EPIC BOUTS / James

MYTH, LEGEND & FISTICUFFS — THE JOHNSON – KETCHEL BOUT OF 1909. Tidbits and Blog . . . THE FISTICUFFS The legendary boxing match between Stanley Ketchel and Jack Johnson occurred on October 16, 1909, in Colma, California. Jack Johnson, the first Black heavyweight champion, faced Stanley Ketchel, the reigning middleweight champion, in what was considered a mismatch due to their size difference—Johnson outweighed Ketchel by nearly 40 pounds. The fight would be the first match between two champions from two divisions apart, an uncanny event for its time. The fight was initially agreed to be an exhibition, but rumors to this day state that it was for the world heavyweight championship. Johnson seemed to have his way in the early going, jabbing Ketchel easily, bleeding his nose, and even dropping him with a counter right cross in the second. Ketchel was consistently trying to get inside of Johnson’s defensive shell, throwing wild punches at times, leaving himself open for counters that Johnson capitalized on. Then the climatic 34 seconds in the 12th, of what some thought to be an exhibition match. Ketchel surprised Johnson with a knockdown in the 12th round. This enraged Johnson, who quickly retaliated with a powerful punch that knocked Ketchel out and embedded some of Ketchel’s teeth in Johnson’s glove. The fight ended with Johnson retaining his heavyweight title. MYTH The 34 seconds of the twelfth round were one of the most action-packed in heavyweight history. However, many believe it may have been choreographed for film rights, which were in the early stages of development. The same moves were made in earlier rounds, and it may have been that Ketchel may have double-crossed as to the ending of the bout. All these questions have been debated, although the fight is over a Century old. Another question mark debated was whether, when Johnson knocked Ketchel out, some of Ketchel’s teeth were embedded in Johnson’s gloves. It can be seen that Johnson is wiping something off his gloves after the knockdown; perhaps it was Ketchel’s teeth. LEGEND Stanley Ketchel and Jack Johnson were legendary boxing figures, but their careers were quite different regarding achievements and impact. Stanley Ketchel Known as the “Michigan Assassin,” Stanley Ketchel was one of the greatest middleweight boxers in history. Born in 1886, he began his professional career at 16 and quickly gained a reputation for his aggressive style and knockout power. Ketchel became the World Middleweight Champion in 1908 and defended his title multiple times. He often fought much larger opponents, including heavyweights, despite being a middleweight. Tragically, Ketchel’s life and career were cut short when he was murdered at the age of 24 in 1910. Jack Johnson Jack Johnson, nicknamed the “Galveston Giant,” was the first Black heavyweight champion, a title he held from 1908 to 1915. His victory over Tommy Burns to claim the title was groundbreaking, as it shattered racial barriers in sports during the Jim Crow era. Johnson’s career was marked by his dominance in the ring and his defiance of societal norms, including his relationships with white women, which drew significant controversy at the time. He faced numerous challenges outside the ring, including legal troubles and racial discrimination, but his legacy as a trailblazer in boxing and civil rights remains profound. Both fighters left an indelible mark on boxing history, with Ketchel remembered for his fearless fighting spirit and Johnson for his cultural and historical significance. More on this bout JACK JOHNSON -vs- STANLEY KETCHEL 1909 – HD Documentary Analysis and Rare Footage Story of the Johnson-Ketchel bout below..

Johnson Vs Ketchel 1909 Read More »

Thunder & Lightning: The Fighting Gatti Brothers

DIGITAL / James

Thunder & Lightning: The Fighting Gatti Brothers The Fighting Gatti Brothers refers to Arturo and Joe Gatti, two brothers who made their mark in professional boxing. They grew up in Montreal, Canada, before moving to Jersey City, New Jersey, where they pursued their boxing careers. Arturo Gatti, known as “Thunder,” was a legendary fighter famous for his relentless style, incredible resilience, and thrilling battles in the ring. He became a two-time world champion and was later inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. His fights, especially his trilogy against Micky Ward, are considered some of the most exciting in boxing history. Joe Gatti, known as “Lightning,” also had a professional boxing career, though he did not achieve the same fame as his brother. He competed in the super welterweight division and had a respectable career in the sport. Their story is detailed in the book Thunder & Lightning: The Fighting Gatti Brothers by Joe Botti, which explores their triumphs, struggles, and the darker side of boxing. Thunder & Lightning: The Fighting Gatti Brothers, by Joe Botti, is a gripping tale of triumph, tragedy, and the dark side of sports. It is a groundbreaking masterpiece that pulls back the curtain on the extraordinary lives of two brothers, Arturo, and Joe Gatti, from their childhoods in Montreal, Canada, until they arrived in Jersey City, N.J., and battled their way through the cutthroat world of professional boxing in their quest for fame, fortune, and redemption. Thunder & Lightning transcends the boundaries of a mere sports book, unearthing untold behind-the-scenes stories that will bring forth joy, laughter, excitement, admiration, shock, disappointment, sadness, and tears. Botti fearlessly exposes the pressures of stardom, the intoxicating allure of entourages, and the clandestine backroom negotiations that shaped the brothers’ careers and lives. About the Author: Born in Jersey City and raised in Union City, New Jersey, Joe Botti has been involved in boxing since 1977. He has boxed as an amateur and trained and managed amateur and professional fighters. Botti founded and directed the Union City Boxing Club from 1989 to 2013. Under Botti’s direction, the Club won 7 first-place state team trophies. In 1995, the N.J. Golden Gloves Association named Botti coach of the year. He has trained 34 N.J. Golden Glove champions and multiple successful professional boxers. Botti’s boxers have been featured on HBO, Showtime, ESPN, and MSG networks. 1993, Botti promoted the first USA Boxing-sanctioned female amateur boxing match in the NY-N.J. tri-state area. He is a Ring 14 Veteran Boxer Association member and the Hudson County Boxing Association. Botti was voted into the N.J. Boxing Hall of Fame in 2023. Botti’s first book, Joe Jennette: Boxing’s Ironman, was a fascinating story about one of the 20th Century’s greatest boxers. Botti is working on his third book on the life and boxing career of International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee Don Elbaum. Botti served as a police officer from 1997 to 2021, earning numerous awards and retiring as Captain. He studied at William Paterson University in Wayne, N.J.

Thunder & Lightning: The Fighting Gatti Brothers Read More »

George Foreman’s toughest fight

1 Comment / EPIC BOUTS / James

George Foreman’s toughest fight Thanks for the memories, George . . . “The Steak with the Sizzle” J. Monte . . . As the news passed last week that George Foreman died at 76, it brought back memories of the mid-’70s, when George, after being defeated by Muhammad Ali in the famous “Rumble In the Jungle” in October 1974, changed trainers and hooked up with the tutelage of Gil Clancy and Howie Albert. Foreman was considered invincible until the fateful night in 1974, with an Olympic Gold medal in 1968 and registering an impressive 40-0 mark as a professional. Clancy and Albert were made famous by their longstanding guidance of Emile Griffith. As Griffith’s career was winding down, they tutored other boxers, such as Jerry Quarry, Ken Buchanan, Jorge Ahumada, and many others — and, of course, George Foreman. In 1975, Foreman was inactive. His only action was a carnival-like promotion in which he took on five heavyweights in a sparring-like exhibition. As 1976 approached, Foreman signed to fight a top contender, who, like Foreman, had previously lost to Muhammad Ali. Foreman’s opponent, the ever-dangerous Ron Lyle, from Denver, Colorado, was coming off one of the best wins of his career, a KO over the equally dangerous Ernie Shavers in Sept ‘75, a furious fight with Shavers clocking out in round 6. While many knew the ex-champ Foreman, Lyle was known as a pure puncher even though he proved he could box well if he had to. 1976 Fight Of the Year What was anticipated as a compelling fight, nobody could predict how crazy this fight would turn out. It took many by surprise. To many, this was a fight with “a mind of its own.” Legendary broadcaster Howard Cosell’s best moments were highlighted in this fight. He was part of the package. This is as much a mastery of a slugfest as any heavyweight matchup can be. https://youtu.be/l8AVcEyyMco?si=gS6Pdnv4zeTvCKqU Ultimately, George Foreman secured victory with a fifth-round knockout. Lyle gassed out and had nothing left after trying to knock out George earlier in the round. It was one of his finest moments and most challenging fights. The second coming of George Foreman (87 through ’97) is the older, wiser version and the one most fans remember. But the fighter who fought Ron Lyle, that slugger, produced one of the most exemplary moments in history, which exemplified the primal power of heavyweight boxing, where brute strength and resilience took center stage. What stands out most about this bout is the incredible drama—few fights (Hagler-Hearns is one) have been as action-packed in such a short period. Foreman finished his career 76-5, with 68 knockouts. If you know of any heavyweight slugfests (other than Dempsey-Firpo) in the 20th Century that fall into this category, please put your thoughts in the comment section. BOGARTS” LAST FILM REVIEW More on Foreman Foreman BOX REC

George Foreman’s toughest fight Read More »

FILM2

Uncategorized / James

https://youtu.be/1vXzXT2XXzQ?si=fqSkM8JVcuPyG9Zg Humphrey Bogart portrayed Eddie Willis in the 1956 film The Harder They Fall. This was Bogart’s final film role before his passing. The movie, directed by Mark Robson, is a gripping boxing drama based on Budd Schulberg’s novel of the same name. In the film, Eddie Willis is a down-on-his-luck sportswriter who becomes a press agent for a corrupt boxing promoter. The story explores themes of exploitation, morality, and redemption as Eddie grapples with the ethical dilemmas of his new role. Bogart’s performance is widely praised for its depth and nuance, making it a memorable conclusion to his illustrious career https://youtu.be/alfvlnyjrnk?si=nSR6iqQAR4lyz9dZ

FILM2 Read More »