It’s no secret that the state of boxing is not what it once was. From a time where fighters simply displayed their skills to be the best in the world at their craft, to a time where social media and endorsements have become more influential than the prestige of being the champion, the original form of combat has lost some of the zest it once possessed.
Boxers of the past worked diligently because having the title of being the champion of the world was held in the highest regard of all sports’ titles. Now rather than throwing hands to prove they are the best in the division, too many boxers care more about preserving their record and hand picking opponents over proving they are the best of the best.
February 17 will match two former world champions–one the current undefeated bare knuckle boxing champion of the world and the other one of the greatest pugilists to ever lace up the gloves–in 12 round bout to determine the WBF Cruiserweight Championship.
What sets this matchup apart from many of the other fights that will take place in 2017 is that the two former world champs have already stamped their place amongst boxing greats, have built their legacy, and are going out there simply for the love of fighting and to once again get his hand raised in world championship fashion.
We have seen in the past fighters fighting safely to protect their records, and to think about the next fight, but in this bout next Friday, neither Gunn nor Jones Jr. have anything to lose.
Whichever man exits the ring with the belt will be recognized as the WBF Champion; he who does not emerge victoriously will still be regarded as the former champion he once was.
These components–along with the long history Gunn and Jones Jr. within the last 10 years of making this fight happen–are key ingredients which can and will contribute to making this potentially a fight of the year candidate. A loss doesn’t meant being pulled from title contention; it is simply a loss.
That being said, fans can expect Gunn and Jones Jr. to leave it all in the ring February 17; their blood, sweat, determination, will and love of the game. Each boxer wants to prove he is the better man that night, and both will undoubtedly do whatever it takes to get the ‘W’.
Gunn vs. Jones Jr. features speed, power, elusiveness, craftiness, and a vast difference between unconventional styles that when they meet will make for a super fan friendly matchup, resulting in fireworks within the squared circle.
There are countless fights this year that look the part on paper, but will surely fall short once the bell rings. Gunn vs. Jones Jr. will not be one of them. This is a fight true boxing fans need to be part of, and witness the sweet science first hand. Gunn and a Jones Jr. will take fans back to the sport they remember in the 90s and early 2000s, where fighters fought and left it all in the ring.
True boxing fans need not miss this one.
Gunn and Jones Jr. meet next Friday night, February 17 at the Chase Center in Wilmington, Delaware.
The broadcast will premiere on Friday, February 17th at 9 PM ET/6 PM PT and will be carried throughout the month on video-on-demand. Please consult your local guide for channels and encores in your area.
The suggested retail price is $29.99. The event will also be available worldwide on home computers, laptops, Smart TVs, iPhones, iPads, AppleTV, and Android devices on FITE-TV, Flipps, and other OTT (over-the-top) streaming services.
Tickets are on sale now ranging from $75 – $300 and can be purchased by calling (484) 935-3378& www.firststatefights.com.
Roy Jones, Jr. vs Bobby Gunn, promoted by David Feldman Promotions and the Casino at Delaware Park.