Berto and Ortiz produce fireworks, Khan and McCloskey fizzle out

The Foxwoods Resort Casino and The MEN Arena are two very different places.

Nestled away in Mashantucket, Connecticut, with deep Native American roots, Foxwoods was where Carl Froch stopped the clock ticking away to a points defeat with a wonderful last-gasp stoppage of Jermain Taylor in 2009.

The MEN Arena - or Manchester Evening News Arena if you prefer - is easier to find. It's famed for its passionate Mancunian fans who come pouring in for a good night. It's near to some enticing restaurants, bars and clubs - and adjoined to a train station if you need to get out of town quickly.

At the weekend boxing fans witnessed to two very different sorts of fights.

Two sides of the coin.

On the one side we had a wonderful, enthralling fight between Andre Berto and Victor Ortiz for the WBC Welterweight Championship. Both fighters scored two knockdowns each and the result was pretty much immaterial as the spectacle was what mattered.

For the record, Ortiz, who showed tremendous heart and resolve, took home the title - 114-111, 114-112 and 115-110 on points.

Last week on Sky Sports' resurgent Ringside show - http://bit.ly/hNSrSx - Boxing News editor Tris Dixon reflected on how too much emphasis is placed on a fighter having an unbeaten record and that a loss is not the end of the road. In fact it could be the beginning of something better.

This piece of analysis can be applied to both fighters. Ortiz was written off after losing to Marcos Maidana in 2009 (his second loss as a professional). He's regrouped and despite looking a little shaky since that night in previous fights has rebounded big time with this victory.

Ortiz would probably say losing has made him a better fighter. Now Berto (27-0 before the weekend) faces a challenge to come back stronger - although his heart is not in question, such was his brave showing at the weekend.

Let's flip the coin and look at Amir Khan's contest with Northern Irish fighter Paul McCloskey for the WBA Light-Welteweight Championship.

To be frank: the build-up to this fight left a bad taste, the actual contest was poor and the outcome and aftermath left a sour impression.

Dogged by a dispute with Sky - who pulled the fight from pay-per-view for it to instead be shown on Sky Sports 3 instead because the undercard, and headline fight for that matter, was not up to scratch - Khan's team decided to switch to little-known broadcaster Primetime.

To watch the broadcast (legally) fans would have to shell out £15.

McCloskey was unbeaten and a European champion. A respectable and respectful man, but with all due respect he wasn't the additional ingredient Khan needed to make this worthy of a pay-per-view showing. Ultimately he was brought in as a relatively low-risk candidate for a money-making voluntary defence.

Khan endeared himself to no-one by calling himself a "pay-per-view fighter" beforehand. He certainly didn't fight like one. He used amateur-like flurries to bank the points against the slower and more methodical McCloskey, who elected to send over the odd looping left hook. Despite this, Khan looked open to shots, was quite flat-footed and was made to miss himself. McCloskey was awkward but looked like he was watching the fight go by - unless, as he claimed, he had some masterplan to take Khan out late.

After six rounds a clash of heads opened a wound, the doctor jumped in and the referee waved it off, leading to a technical decision in Khan's favour. Just like that. It was a very poor stoppage in so far as the cut wasn't deep and the blood had been stemmed within seconds. McCloskey wasn't hurt and air of bemusement filled the arena - along with a good measure of anger.

Boxers fighting in world title contests have endured much, much worse cuts and continued. How awkward it was to see Khan's American promoter Oscar De La Hoya - who endured a few cuts in his career - to try and justify a stoppage it was clear, despite the superficial appearance, he found as startling as everyone else.

In the aftermath of the fight McCloskey's team, including promoter Barry Hearn (who shouted "disgrace" several times at the referee), were spitting feathers. Meanwhile, Khan's team tried to justify the farce, which didn't help matters - particularly the suggestions that McCloskey had quit.

It wasn't a good showcase of British boxing. Amir Khan has seemingly had enough of fighting in Britain. Too much hassle and not enough cash.

He's looking at a unification match with Timothy Bradley, which sounds appetising. Bradley is a dangerous foe and the increasingly confident Khan needs to tread carefully. Weight may catch up with him - he seemed to struggle getting down to 10 stone for last weekend's fight and appears to be filling out as he gets older.

Khan might also want to consider the old adage 'too many cooks spoil the broth'. For the McCloskey contest he was backed by Golden Boy Promotions, Hatton Promotions and his new company, Khan Promotions. Too many distractions, too many people wanting a slice of the pie - that can't be healthy for his focus.

The best thing Khan can do is cut free the entourage craving a piece of the meal ticket, listen and listen and listen to the wise words of his brilliant trainer Freddie Roach and utilise his brilliant boxing skills - while neutralising the chance of getting caught with good defence.

That's easier said than done though.

Amir Khan - Paul McCloskey: Press Conference Notes

There was simmering tension at today's press conference at Manchester Town Hall for WBA Light-Welterweight Champion Amir Khan's contest with unbeaten Paul McCloskey and it all revolved around one thing - money.

"This will all certainly make good copy," an Irish scribe turned to me and chuckled at the close of play, a glint in his eye.

Khan and McCloskey might have been conducting the stare-down for the cameras but really most of the press wanted to see the fighters' managers Asif Vali and Eddie Hearn square-off after they exchanged furious barbs during the conference.

Perhaps jetlagged, Oscar De La Hoya, who chaired proceedings (his company Golden Boy has a stake in Khan), looked tired and talked tired cliches at the start but he was certainly awoken by Hearn's sharp retort in the middle of the conference.

"I respect you but not your knowledge of the UK TV market," Hearn fired over towards the powerful American promoter.

The argument hinged on this: Amir Khan's fight which takes place this weekend was recently pulled from Sky Pay-Per-View because the promoters' undercard was deemed not good enough, following the withdrawal of several fighters. Khan's team then chose to switch to the unheraled Primetime TV.

It's reckoned this could lose Khan up to a cool £1 million. McCloskey may lose out too - though nowhere near as badly. It's also got fans' backs up with claims the £15 price tage is not worth it in these credit crunch-induced times. Further, a smaller audience will help neither fighters' profile - nor help the sport get the coverage it needs.

Still, De La Hoya tried to put some gloss on proceedings by hyping the link-up with Primetime as a good thing and doing his bit to drum up more support among the assembled media and hanger-ons.

However, tensions erupted when Eddie Hearn was handed the microphone.

The son of long-serving Barry Hearn had a lot to say, starting with an attack on Khan's team - Khan Promotions, driven by Khan's hard-bargaining manager Asif Vali - questioning their professionalism in leading to the fight being pulled by Sky.

Hearn made the claim that he had never known a team to be so unprofessional in all his time involved in boxing.

He then went on to ask of Khan how he would maintain his focus in such circumstances after his big pay cheque had seemingly been shredded down. Meanwhile De La Hoya sat ashen-faced while all this was going on.

Vali hit back by furiously suggesting Hearn was more interested in "lining his own pockets" than his man McCloskey's chances in this contest.

However, he did concede this about the promotion of the fight: "It's been difficult at times, we know that..."

As for McCloskey and Khan, they cut more dignified, restrained figures.

"I stay out of the politics," McCloskey said, looking calm and confident. He spoke clearly and with conviction and really fancies his chances of pulling off an upset.

Khan was somewhat more tense. While McCloskey showed off his trim, whippet-like frame in casual clothes, Khan's shoulders were hunched in his dark suit. He said little but gabbled the usual pre-fight words: preparation great, thanks to the media, it'll be great, let's get it on.

McCloskey was and probably still is a big underdog going into this fight but all this commotion will help his chances that bit more. He has quick hands and great upper-body movement, he can also punch but lacks much in the way of footwork.

But is he ready to step up from European level to the world class standing Amir Khan inhabits? All will be answered this Saturday.


* Both fighters have weighed in at 139lbs.

Erik Morales cooks up some humble pie

Sometimes it seems easy to call a boxing match-up.

Evidence should suggest that the wear and tear consumed over a long career at the summit spent sparring thousands of rounds, blowing up and down in weight and frequently fighting in the trenches for the fans should eventually spell the end of a career for good - and sooner rather than later.

That rule was supposed to apply to Erik Morales who took on the frightening puncher Marcos Maidana at the weekend.

Here were the facts going in: Morales was 34 years of age, he'd had 57 fights (a large proportion of which were bruising encounters) after starting at super-bantamweight. In 2007 he's retired for two and a half years after four back-to-back losses (including two knockouts). Further, he was fighting a prime fighter with 27 knockouts from 29 wins.

Yet, Morales proceeded to rip up the form guide and shove it down the mouths of all those, including myself, who dared question whether it was safe for him to be in the ring against Maidana - let alone last the distance and be in with a shout of winning.

Here's to humble pie.

Now, Morales may not have actually won but he took the contest to the wire. The judges' scoring only told one story - 116-112, 116-112 and 114-114 to Maidana. The fans were on Morales' side though and heartily cheered his name afterwards.

I was compelled to think of another legendary Hispanic fighter, Roberto Duran, who so often had the crowd eating out of the palm of his hand. His closely-fought loss to Marvin Hagler (of which Maidana bears no comparison of course) springs to mind.

We're all talking about Morales - and he wasn't even the victor!

Consider this: Morales was rocked about in the first round and had one eye grotesquely closed shut and swollen. That he fought back and had some observers claiming he should have got the nod demonstrates so much about the man's bravery and let's not forget his skill.

Let's also not forget Maidana's part in proceedings. He too was brave and dug down to get the decision. Interestingly, he seemed more troubled by Morales' shots than the Mexican was of his. Afterwards he appeared gracious in victory and said Morales would get a rematch.

A fight for the ages with a wonderful story. Was it Morales' last hurrah? I've learned my lesson and would certainly not make any predictions on that score!


In a less satisfying encounter at the weekend former WBA Light-Welterweight Champion Vivian Harris was stopped after one round after taking on unbeaten welterweight prospect Jessie Vargas.

After being wobbled Harris told the referee he could not continue. It was a sad sight but at least Harris saved himself from further punishment.

Vivian Harris is a worry. He's been stopped in his past three fights and four fights ago a no contest was ruled after a head clash meant Harris was unable to continue.

He's not won since 2008. Harris should be saved from the sport - either he retires for his health or if he insists on continuing it must be at a lower level in Guyana, perhaps at a higher weight.

Stieglitz - Gevor: The Super-Middleweight's B-Side Fight

Khoren Gevor knows a thing or two about questionable judging.

The Armenian-born scrapper - fighting for the WBO Super Middleweight Title tomorrow night - lost a previous challenge for the WBA Middleweight strap against Felix Sturm in 2009 that had many observers crying robbery.

After appearing to score a flash knockdown - ruled for some reason as a slip - Gevor went on to impose his sort of fight, breaking down Sturm on the inside.

How did the judges see it?

Well, they saw it like this: 115-113, 115-113 and 117-111. To Sturm, the house fighter of course. One fight writer described  the judges' interpretation as "completely incomprehensible scoring". That just about sums it up.

Understandably Gevor has some reservations as he bids to win Robert Stieglitz's belt on his opponent's turf - and on his opponent's promoter's turf.

“Everyone knows that in sports there’s always a home advantage," Gevor has said.

“Unfortunately, this is especially true in boxing. I am a guest at [the promoters] SES event in their city. I have no illusions that here in Magdeburg it will be very difficult for me to win on points.

"I don’t want to insinuate that the judges or referee will consciously evaluate the fight incorrectly. But everyone knows that the home promoter pays the bills – also for the judges – and the audience contributes by cheering wildly for every punch the home boxer throws and not reacting at all to the clear punches landed by the guest boxer.

"No judges in the world are immune from that. So I know that I must win by KO – but this is okay for me. I am prepared for it and I have the goal to knock out Stieglitz. I don’t want there to be anything to discuss at the end.”

It's concerning that a talented boxer like Gevor (31-5) should feel this way but of course most experienced boxing fans will tell you that's just how it goes when you fight in an opponent's backyard.

It's not right of course - just ask Robin Reid. The Super-Middleweight was denied a fair victory against long-reigning champion Sven Ottke (who won a series of dubious decisions) in 2003. Poor Reid was constantly interrogated by the referee, given a warning after landing a punch and had a genuine knockdown ruled as a slip. He didn't get the decision despite appearing to - despite the referee's outrageous behaviour - win more rounds than his opponent. One wonders how he found the strength to carry on in the sport after that disgraceful evening.

Back to Gevor's forthcoming fight and for my reckoning, and with all due respect, Stieglitz is far from being an elite champion. He has good power and brings experience but in two bouts where he stepped up in class - against Alejandro Berrio and Librado Andrade - he was stopped.

Since winning his belt he has made three defences against mediocre opposition.

In a division stuffed with the talents of Carl Froch, Andre Ward, Mikkel Kessler, Arthur Abraham, Andre Dirrell and Lucian Bute; Stieglitz is not even a top-five fighter, despite his belt.

However, that may not matter for Stieglitz. If he continues to fly under the radar he can make easier defences and bank the cash without facing the big boys. That's not healthy for the sport and shows how devalued many world title belts have become.

Don't blame Stieglitz - he's just playing the game.


* Postscript: Well, sadly there was a controversial ending to this fight.

Reports state that Stieglitz was the sharper, more accurate puncher, while Gevor was as game as ever, coming forward and trying to press his advantage.

Things turned in the tenth round though.

Gevor, frustrated in a clinch, rabbit punched his opponent. After being broken up, the two fighters clinched again, with Stieglitz wrestled to the ground by Gevor.

Stieglitz got up, displaying a laceration above his right eye and Gevor was disqualified.

So incensed was Gevor that he argued with Stieglitz's cornermen and apparently attacked the referee for good measure.

That's not the sort of image boxing needs.

New Look Boxing News

Today sees the launch of a new look Boxing News - the longest running boxing magazine still in publication, dating back to 1909.

The magazine - or paper, as some of the traditionalists like to refer to it - has undergone a few changes since Tris Dixon took over as editor from Claude Abrams in 2010. These include changing the date Boxing News comes out from Friday to Thursday, while other new features have been introduced, such as having a weekly guest columnist.

Now whenever a long-standing publication undergoes a change a lot of people used to and content with the current order of things will often grumble.

Glancing at internet boxing forums this morning that seems to prove the point with naturally opinionated posters complaining the design too closely resembles an MMA publication. The point has been made in connection with Boxing News' sister publication, Fighting Fit, which has more of an MMA focus.

However, while change might not always be welcome it is an inevitable fact in the publishing world as magazines and newspapers seek to progress, as well as keep in touch with the changing times. Let's not forget too that the evolution of internet and declining publication sales (of which Boxing News has apparently bucked the trend and continues to prosper, I must add) means editors (or their bosses) are always looking for new ways to keep ahead of the game - or just keep up.

As a nostalgic person who misses the days of Boxing News resembling something more akin to a broadsheet paper I must say I'm still not sure if the new design is my cup of tea (particularly the use of 'News' to represent the 'I' of 'Boxing').

That probably says more about my tastes though!

I have a feeling the design will grow on people. The changes being implemented under the stewardship of Dixon, including regular online features - see: http://www.boxingnewsonline.net/ - are steps to helping modernise the magazine, diversify its audience and push for continued, or even improve, solid sales figures.

That can't be a bad thing for boxing of which Boxing News has always been a wonderful ambassador most humble writers covering the sport can only aspire to achieve.

101 years and not out. That's not bad going eh?

DeGale - Groves: The build-up continues

Intrigue continues to mount as James DeGale and George Groves step up their preparation for next month's mouth-watering contest.

As things stands it appears that only DeGale's British title is at stake, although that's not to rule out the belt Groves brings to the table - the Commonwealth strap - also being up for grabs.

No matter what title or titles are being contested this is still effectively a domestic undercard contest and one wonders what Welshman Nathan Cleverly, who is fighting for the WBO Light Heavyweight title, makes of it all. He is the headliner on the night after all.

Perhaps not having the hassle of the limelight might be a blessing in disguise.

George Groves is currently in Miami training alongside his mentor the heavyweight champion David Haye and has conducted sparring sessions with the mercurial Super-Middleweight Andre Dirrell - a world-level fighter. This seems like a sensible move in preparation for a snappy, flash contestant like DeGale.

James DeGale has based himself in Essex under the notoriously tough taskmaster Jim McDonnell. The man called 'Chunky' said he blows up to 190 pounds outside of fights but it's unlikely he won't come into this contest in great condition given McDonnell's reputation.

Some of McDonnell's previous training orders have included getting fighters to pull along cars with passengers sat inside, while it was rumoured he even got one former fighter to sleep in a separate bed to his wife in order to conserve energy!

This week George Groves' promotional team Hayemaker have thrown a barbed counter toward DeGale's side with a heavily-edited video designed to make 'Chunky' look foolish. Entitled 'James Defail', it can be found here - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjDBy-JJrsA

James DeGale hasn't being keeping quiet either (no surprise there). He's hit back at Groves as a "chinny" fighter.

Here's what he had to say: "There is something wrong with his chin, there has to be if he keeps going over all the time, and I will exploit that."

DeGale has based his theory on Groves getting stopped in the amateurs as well as floored by Kenny Anderson last year and in a sparring session with Carl Froch.

I think it's safe to dismiss the Froch spar here. Groves has been open about being floored and let's face it, Froch is a superb, experienced world champion who hits very hard while Groves is green as a professional. It's also been said that Carl Froch does not hold back in sparring and surely Groves will have gained something as a result.

The Anderson knockdown could also be brought into question as a measure of Groves' chin Anderson has a genuinely good punch and Groves left himself exposed to the Scotsman's best shots . He took some blows, went down and then got back up to win (although the stoppage appeared a little premature). Rather, it seemed Groves' defence (or lack of) was the issue - not necessarily his chin.

Of course, DeGale is hyping the fight and he's trying to get under Groves' skin. Both fighters will want to carve out every possible advantage before fight night and a bit of winding up can go a long way.

Just ask Ricky Hatton about his pre-fight exchanges with Floyd Mayweayther Jr.

Katsidis - Guerrero: Will v Skill

Michael Katsidis is the sort of boxer, like Diego Corrales and Arturo Gatti, who could be described as a 'phonebox fighter'.

That's to say, if he had his way, he'd happily swap a spacious boxing ring for the confines of a telephone box, allowing him to trade blows with his opponent in an honourable last man standing contest.

With Duracell bunny-like energy levels Katsidis (27-3) always comes bounding over to his opponent and loves to pressurise and trap his foe against the ropes, ideally in the corner with no escape. This pattern tends to follow until either the opponent is good enough (as Joel Casamyor and Juan Manuel Marquez were) to score enough counter shots to hurt him and push him back - or more likely they succumb (like Graham Earl and Kevin Mitchell) to the pressure.

This weekend he takes on a completely different sort of fighter, Robert Guerrero (28-1), for the Interim WBA and WBO Lightweight Championships.

Southpaw Guerrero is the kind of boxer that relishes using his wits to evade the sort of pressure fighter that is Katsidis. He uses speedy footwork to get in, score points and get out of trouble.

That said, the former IBF Featherweight and Super-Featherweight Champion has some pop in his fists with 18 knockouts, including five first round stoppages.

Where Katsidis is easy to find and hit, Guerrero, nicknamed The Ghost, is likely to be a more frustrating proposition for the man in the other corner.

With 14 straight victories coming in Guerrero would look to be a bit fresher than Katsidis, who was stopped in nine thrilling rounds with Juan Manuel Marquez last year and is said to have suffered an eye injury while preparing for this one which could have scuppered this bout.

Katsidis should have a significant  size advantages against a former featherweight. He always gives 100 per cent and has an exhaustive will power to destroy his opponent. However, I'm not sure it'll be enough against the superbly-skilled Guerrero.

I'm inclined to think of Katsidis' points loss to Juan Diaz immediately after he had been stopped by Casamyor back in 2008.

Diaz, who has often lacked finesse and is not the most fleet-footed, was able to outfox Katsidis. Many thought Katsidis had gone straight back into a world level fight too soon after a crushing but valiant defeat and he lost on points.

Here there are similarities.

This time Guerrero is a much better skilled boxer than Diaz and is likely to be exuding confidence as he seeks to gain better exposure after flying under the radar for too long. You can never write off Katsidis, who is sure to turn up in fantastic shape, but I would pick Guerrero to dazzle on his way to a points decision.


* Postscript: Guerrero went on to take a comprehensive decision, winning 117-108, 118-106 and 118-107.

In defeat Katsidis was a brave and try-hard as ever. He was considered a little unfortunate to lose two points for low blows - despite not being warned first.

Katsidis should now take some time off to re-charge his batteries.

There will also be a place for his popular, hard-working fighter but he might be better served to step back to allow him to come back a fresher fighter.

Guerrero, funnily enough, may have less options open to him than Katsidis right now!

He's a southpaw, he's skilled, he's dangerous. I'm not sure promoters of the big names in and around the lightweight division will relish the thought of Guerrero has an opponent.

However, he deserves credit for putting on a clinical, marvellous performance.

Erik Morales: Rolling back the years?

This weekend legendary fighter Erik Morales would love to be able to place his finger to his lips and silence the mammoth amount of doubters who believe he's out of depth in taking on the ferocious Marcos Maidana for the Interim WBA Light-Welterweight Middleweight Title.

To do that Morales would have to achieve the herculean task of prising the fight away from a rugged bruiser with 27 stoppages from his 29 wins.

Maidana, who so nearly had a wobbly Amir Khan stopped, rarely goes the distance. He likes his fights to end early and he pretty much normally gets his own way.

So where does that leave Erik Morales?

Well, the 34-year-old's story has been well-documented leading up to this contest. A fabulous former Super-Bantamweight, Featherweight and Super-Feathweight genuine elite world champion, the wheels came off when Morales lost four fights back-to-back between 2005 and 2007. He then retired for two and a half years before embarking on three low-key comeback fights.

It isn't necessary to go into the achievements of Morales, who could box beautifully but normally elected to stand toe-to-toe for his adoring fans. If you want contemporary proof of his legacy look at Manny Pacquiao - the last fighter he lost to was Morales in 2005.

That's the past and the common consensus is that spectactors will see the sad sight of Morales, too brave to get out early, being blown away and hurt by a naturally fresher, bigger, stronger, harder puncher.

In the build up to this fight Morales has exuded self-confidence - at least in front of the cameras and when a reporter's notebook or recorder is to hand. He's talked up his chances (not the first boxer to do this, of course) and wants to persuade others of his perceived chances.

Morales has talked of a game plan: “You have to know, I chose Maidana," he's told reporters.

Coming into this bout Morales is riding a three-win streak against Jose Alfaro at 147 pounds (a points win), Scotsman Willie Limond at 143 pounds (stoppage) and Franciso Lorenzo at 140 pounds (a points win).

Against a B-grade of opposition - decent, respectable, competant but not great - he's looked ok. That's about it - ok. He's used a nice jab, weighed in with some good body punching and drawn on his sound ring smarts to move in and out. Perhaps inevitably though, he's looked beatable and all three of his previous opposition certainly had their moments.

Stepping up a huge level to take on Maidana, will it be enough?

Let's face it, it would be a remarkable story if Morales pulled it off. He's been to the well and back a fair few times - he confounded critics when he beat Pacquiao in 2005 after looking a little jaded against Marco Antiono Barrera.

Also, in 2007 I felt he did better than expected when stepping up to lightweight and nearly dethroning David Diaz, who was the WBC champion.

I think the Diaz fight, in a strange sort of way, could be the yardstick to measure Morales' chances against Maidana. For while Diaz wasn't a big puncher like Maidana, he had the size advantages to keep on top - even if Morales, skillwise, was and is streets ahead of both come-forward scrappers.

We know Morales is brave and if he has the genuine belief going into this fight, and has trained properly, then the fight may not end as early as some are predicting.

What tactics will Morales employ?

If he elects to keep out of trouble and boxes smartly he might keep out of trouble for a bit. Unfortunately, Maidana is the type of boxer that catches up with you with his chugging engine. Look what happened to genuine light-welterweight Khan, who eventually found it hard to keep off the raw and rugged Argentinian.

Now, if Morales goes wading in and chooses to stand and trade...well, the outcome is likely to be predictable.

I think Maidana goes in and gets Morales out of there within six rounds. I'm sure Morales might have his moments but I don't think there will be a happy ending for this wonderful figher who has had his day.

Anthony Mundine: Time to step up

Anthony Mundine, who takes on Garth Wood this weekend in a rematch, is unquestionably a larger-than-life character in his native Australian territory.

The Man, as he's known, knows how to sell a fight and he has charisma. The love-him or hate-him personality undoubtedly helps shift tickets. Whether it's people paying to see him win or others shelling out cash in the hope he'll lose, the bank manager is certainly happy.

In the ring Mundine has shown talent after admirably transferring from the sport of rugby. He's twice picked up Super-Middlweight WBA titles and was victorious in a grudge fight that captured the nation against Danny Green in 2006. He has quick feet, delivers nice, crisp shots and is capable of delivering a solid dig when he decided to sit down on his shots.

Yet, for me and many others, it's not enough. I would argue that Mundine, despite his genuine potential, has failed to live up to and justify his own proclamations of greatness.

After beating Green in that wonderful performance Mundine went on to take on the rather shopworn Sam Soliman twice (despite knocking him out the first time around). He then relinquished his WBA title - avoiding a match-up with mandatory challenger Mikkel Kessler, who had already comprehesively beat him. Why? Was he tarnished by the loss?

As far as I'm concerned, and with the greatest respect, in the past five years only the name of Daniel Geale (21-0) is a worthy opponent for a man who wants to be seen as a world level fighter. It was with credit, and a little controversy, that Mundine got a split decision win against the raw but talented unbeaten fighter in 2009.

Since then not much has happened. At the age of 35 it could well be too late for Mundine.

Since 2006 Mundine has languished and stagnated. Where he could have moved out of his comfort zone and sought challenges to test his character and boxing skill he has instead taken on the easier, low-risk contests.

Crazy Kim? Carlos Adan Jerez? Ryan Waters? Sorry, not good enough.

Perhaps the ticket sales in front of a roaring home crowd is enough for Mundine? Whatever the reason, I feel Australian boxing fans have been short changed. Mundine, with his personality, could have been a useful addition to the Super Six tournament that is making stars of the likes of Carl Froch and Andre Ward.

On Friday (April 8) Mundine, who has fought 44 times, will have a rematch with 12-fight novice Garth Wood - who sparked Mundine out in five rounds last December in what was a shock.

Credit to Mundine for going back in there to try and right a wrong (Mundine had boxed to an easy lead before he was caught) but how did it come to this in the first place?

Mundine has claimed last year he was looking at taking on the WBA Light-Middleweight Champion Miguel Cotto last year. He put a lack of focus down to the defeat. Yet, Mundine has frequently talked about jumping up and down weights and winning world titles.

Unfortunately, you have to be willing to take on the best to do that.

If he takes care of business this time around against Wood then what happens next? Talk is cheap - actions not words are needed.

Mundine, the man with the mouth - and talent - owes it to the Australian boxing scene to step up to the plate.

He might consider himself a "two weight champion" (the Geale fight was for the lightly-regarded IBO Middleweight belt) but he's not earned the right to be considered a genuine champion. You have to take proper challenges and proper risks to achieve that status.

It's time to move out of the comfort zone. Put up - or shut up.

John Murray: Cut him some slack

On the face of it John Murray's closer-than-expected points decision over Karim El Ouazghari does not make particularly impressive reading.

The Mancunian lightweight with the swirling, charging style was supposed to make a rampaging statement in London's East End at the iconic York Hall - not too far from domestic rival Kevin Mitchell's Essex manor.

Talk before the fight from many fights fans, and even Murray himself, indicated he might need to bother with Mitchell, who has languished in the dark since being swiped in three rounds by the Australian Michael Katsidis.

Such talk was banished after the 12 rounds though as the judges returned scores of 116-110, 117-112 and 115-112. Murray got the job done against a fighter with 14 records compared with his 30 but it wasn't explosive nor was it a classic showcase of boxing skills. Instead, Murray's defence didn't look great (he was left bruised around both eyes) and although he had Ouazghari reeling at the end, he didn't seem to have enough firepower to justify the hype.

With Mitchell sat ringside, suddenly many boxing fans were claiming the tables had been turned and instead of Murray not needing to worry about the Dagenham fighter, apparently Murray's struggle demonstrated Mitchell would be the likely victor if the two met.

Such thoughts illustrate the fickle (but fun) nature of the sport.

In defence of Murray - he had not fought for about eight months and looked rusty, he was taking on an unknown quantity (his trainer had not managed to get any videos beforehand) who was better than expected and perhaps, despite his professionalism and strong training team behind him, Murray might have struggled to get up for this one.

Boxing is about levels and there are some that question whether Murray has the qualities to crack on from the European scene - no mean feat to get to that level in the first place. We've seen with the likes of Brian Magee and Matthew Hatton, the gulf in class between the two levels.

However, while Murray may have made things a little difficult for himself with his performance, there are plenty others that believe this determined, focused champion who has the will power and underrated boxing skills to step up to the plate. He also has a developing fanbase, a fan-friendly style and is of course from a boxing-mad city. Much worse fighters have been given shots at a world title - and some have even grasped the opportunity and won.

I also question whether Kevin Mitchell really is the threat he's being made out to be. As an up-and-coming fighter Mitchell showed real promise and there's still every chance he can eventually fulfill his potential. However, I think his future lies at super-featherweight.

Michael Katsidis, such is his fanastic conditioning, may have been a one-off but his huge physique against Mitchell's brittle-looking frame made the fight a man versus boy contest.

Murray is a strong lightweight and would look to impose his size on Mitchell and push him back against the ropes. While Murray can be a little predictable and Mitchell has a good jab and reasonable footwork, would he be able to keep him off for 12 rounds?

Still, as we know, money talks and despite potentially earning a good purse, it will probably be in both paties' interests for a Murray - Mitchell showdown.

For Murray, it might cement a few more fans and if he's up for the fight - and he'll certainly know a lot about his opponent this time - then it could be a chance to ward off his doubters.

For Mitchell, it would boost his confidence, push the memories of Katsidis further back and give him a good title. However, the Dagenham boxer, in my view, should be focused on getting himself down to super-featherweight in the long term. He's too small for the elite at lightweight.

Let's hear it for the journeymen

A lot of casual observers might skim a boxer's record and dismiss the fighter as a nobody if they have more defeats than victories.

In such a tough sport, with so many obstacles, bad luck, injuries, promotional wrangles and so forth, it can be hard to make it through the fog.

To have a winning record is something to be proud of but it can also be misleading. A boxer with a bit of a quirk - that might mean talent but it could also mean a huge following, an attractive appearance or a confident manner in front of the camera - might be allowed to build up an unbeaten record to make them an even more attractive proposition.

In short, their record and ego may be inflated and unrepresentative of their actual talent.

But most fighters aren't afforded that luxury. It's often sink or swim as far as the promoter is concerned and as the passages of time many promosing talents end up sliding. Do they continue in the sport? Well, it depends if they still have the passion and something to offer. If a fighter is not being hurt and can provide something and be a test at some level of the sport than why not carry on.

This is where a journeyman may appear.

Let's flip the coin from the unbeaten prospect and his cushioned path towards glory and look at two classic examples of journeymen at their very best - the American Anthony Ivory and gritty Brit Peter Buckland.

Anthony Ivory finished fighting in 2006. He ended up with a 32-78-5 record. In 115 fights he was only stopped five times.

Ivory actually won the first eight of his nine fights before his record slid. Perhaps his most memorable victory came in 1993 when he stopped future world title challenger Antwun Echols in one round.

Here are a list of future world champions and world title challengers he fought: Julio Cesar Vasquez, Luis Ramon 'Yori Boy' Campas, Ronald 'Winky' Wright, Chris Pyatt, Syd Vanderpool, Mamadou Thiam, Harry Simon, Hacine Cherifi, Mikkel Kessler, Armand Kranjc, Silvio Branco, Howard Eastman, Felix Sturm, Wilfredo Rivera, Keith Holmes, Yuri Foreman, Kelly Pavlik, Marco Antonio Rubio.

So, of that exulted company above, Ivory made it to the final bell in 14 of the 18 contests.

For many casual fight fans staying on your feet for an inevitable points loss isn't much of an achievement. I would say, in this case, those people are missing the point.

Journeymen fighters often save the show at the last minute when fighters pull out. They often prove a stern test of a prospect's credentials. Good journeymen are skilled enough to avoid getting seriously hurt and while they rarely get the bright lights of fanfare they are wholly appreciated by those inside the sport of boxing.

Birmingham boxer Peter Buckley had an incredible 300 fights in a career spanning nearly 20 years.

Buckley had a reasonable start to his career. Of his first 31 fights he won 17.

Of course, his final record was a lot different - 32-256-12. He was stopped 10 times and his best achievements were arguably winning the Midlands Area Super-Featherweight Championship in 1992 and the Midlands Area Super-Bantamweight title in 1995.

If you look at Buckley's record, the man was fighting up to three times a month, even towards the tail-end of his career. Just think how important he has been to boxing promoters.

What a servant to the sport.

Let's look at the notable names on Buckley's record: 'Prince' Naseem Hamed (twice), Duke McKenzie, Michael Brodie (twice), Paul Ingle (twice), Colin McMillan and Acelino Freitas.

Here are some of the notable domestic names on Buckley's record: Spencer Oliver, Jason Booth, Scott Harrison, Michael Gomez, Richie Wenton, Jason Cook, Bradley Pryce, Gavin Rees, Lee Meager, Scott Lawton, Derry Matthews and John Murray.

There are also numerous debutants and other decent domestic-level fighters whose learning curve in the sport was aided by taking on the experienced and wily Buckley.

In his final fight Buckley managed to score a rare victory when he outpointed Martin Mohammed over four rounds. Fittingly he was awarded a small trophy and belt.

He then bowed out of boxing.

Respected if not revered. Peter Buckley, like Anthony Ivory, deserves figtht fans' respect for his services to the sport.

* I'm keen to hear from fellow fight fans. If anyone wants to get in touch I can be reached via twitter: http://twitter.com/jabhookblog/