Arizona Boxing News & Notes with Don Smith:
Boxing Fans, It is safe to say that the anticipation of watching the upcoming Saul “Canelo” Alvarez/ Julio Cesar Chavez May 6 PPV battle at T Mobile Arena in Las Vegas is building and Golden Boy Promotions (Event Promoter) is predicting the fight will break the one million buy mark. According to Sportek, the unofficial record for PPV buys for a boxing event is 4.6 million, a number tabulated by accountants with at least 10 fingers. That mark was set and recorded in 2015 after the historic meeting between boxing icons Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao. Boxing insiders question whether or not that mark will ever be approached again. The gross revenue for that disappointing encounter is listed at 410 million dollars and no there is no late refund for viewers who paid up to $100.00 for or the PPV buy or an estimated $3,000.00-$5,000.00 (Scalper Price) to watch the event in person.
on or before May 6, boxing devotees will decide if they’re going to watch the much hyped May 6 Saul “Canelo” Alvarez (48-1-1-34 knockouts) vs. Julio Cesar Jr. (50-2-1- 32 knockouts) event and if so; by what means and where? Pirating is a big business and our advice is don’t do anything foolish like buy an electronic device that will enable viewers to watch special events illegally or on the cheap. Cable providers are cracking downon cheaters and cable theft is punishable by fine and/or jail time.
The HBO Pay-Per – View event is available forsubscribers at $59.95 + $10.00 for HD.Spanish television networks TV Azteca and Televisa will also broadcast the fight thanks to a working agreement with Golden Boy Promotions. Canelo’s star power in Mexico could really make the presentation very profitable.
Tickets for the event at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada sold out quickly and were priced from $75.00 for (upper stratosphere located seats)) to $1,500.00 for ringside seating. Golden Boy Promotions, in concert with the MGM Grand Hotel, is offering a closed circuit viewing of the 12 round main event plus 3 other televised bouts for a cost of $75.00 or $90.00 per person in the Grand Ballroom of the posh hotel. The $90.00 price tag includes a chair and an open bar while the lesser amount affords goers standing room only. I talked to a concierge at the hotel and she told me, seats and standing room remains available; capacity is 1,500.
Phoenix boxing fans who prefer to stay in town to catch the PPV event can watch it on their home screen with HBO PPV purchase or they can watch the battle at various broadcast locations that include sports bars, select movie theatres and several adult cabarets willshow the 4 fight televised event and perhaps much more off the screen. Here is a list of viewing locations we confirmed: Adult Clubs: Chicas Cabaret in Phoenix on 35th Avenue, south of Thomas Road will show the event and according to GM (Regina); no cover charge and table dances will be suspended during the bouts-aw shucks! Band-Aids in Phoenix (7th Street & Oak Street) invites viewers to come early and avoid cover charge; but, incoming patrons arriving just before or after the broadcast starts will be asked to pay a $10.00 cover at the door and the dancers will be working during the telecast. I talked to the owner of Band-Aids (a huge boxing fan) and he said the same policy ($10.00 cover) will also apply to his Essex Gentlemen’s club (on Indian School Road in Phoenix). On the North side of Phoenix, the Jaguar Gold Cabaret(Black Canyon Highway) is asking a $10.00 cover beginning at 7 PM and dancers will be performing during broadcast of the fights.Movie Theaters:Our research Department (1 Person) discovered that 3 AMC Theatres in Phoenix Suburbs: Westgate 20 in Glendale, Cinemark 16 in Mesa and Ahwatukee 24 are showing the event for $19.66 per person- the popcorn is extra, we think!Sports Bars: Unfortunately, we were unable to contact the majority of the sports Bar & Grills in the Phoenix area; however we were told by a Hooters spokesperson that all of their 8 Arizona establishments (including Yuma & Tucson) are showing the HBO PPV event. The Arizona Hooters venue with the most available screens is the drink and eatery at 75th Avenue in Phoenix which boasts of 43. All Hooters are charging $10.00 per person and each patron will receive a wrist band to secure a seat. A word of caution, arrive early (6 p.m.) for a better choice of seating.
Twin Peaks Bar & Grill, on Camelback in Phoenix, remains our favorite to watch sporting events because of their diligence and awareness to serve the community. The Bayless family (franchise proprietors) has donated time, money and energy to help causes and people without hesitation. In addition to their generosity, it is a well-run establishment that shows all of the major sports on more than 80 screens and the service and menu diversity is commendable. At the time we released our column, a final decision on whether to charge a cover or ask for a minimum spend was being debated. A second Twin Peaks is located in Scottsdale and a spokesperson for that franchise told us there is no cover or spend minimum to watch the event. You might call first to confirm. We are told most establishments are failing to show PPV events because of escalating costs. ABNN expects to be in Vegas for the fight and we are awaiting our credentials to cover the Press conference, weigh-in and fight. Enjoy and hope for a good fight!
Fight Facts: The guaranteed purse for the Alvarez/Chavez matchup is reportedly $45 million dollars. It is a 4-1 split with Alvarez pocketing $36 Million dollars while Chavez’s take home pay is $9 Million dollars. With his share Alvarez can now pay Felix Zabala, All Star Boxing, the 8.5 Million dollars the boxing promoter was awarded by a court in Miami after defeating Canelo in a breach of contract dispute that dragged on in the court system for several years. His attempts to overturn the decision have failed; it’s time to pay!
Initially, it was reported that the much hyped May 6 battle would be a winner take all the money proposition and both fighters shook hands; but, the macho agreement was kicked to the curb once it came under scrutiny of the Nevada Boxing Commissionlegal team.
According to persistent rumors, there is a bitter rivalry between the two fighters and “Canelo” is the early betting favorite although Chavez promises to upset Mexico’s boxing hero. Alvarez idolized Julio Chavez Sr. as a kid; but, he quickly adds that Jr. isn’t made of the same stuff and he scoffs at any comparison to Senior & Junior as fighters. On May 6, the truth will prevail.
The contacted catch weight for the contest is 164 which favors Chavez because he is physically bigger and has a distinct height and reach advantage. Scribes, who favor Canelo Alvarez point to the fact that he is younger, more dedicated to the sport and his rabid support from Mexicans will intimate Chavez. Our Oinion: The bout is scheduled for 12 rounds and for Chavez to win; he has to be in the best shape in his life. His recent battle with injuries and making weight questions his stamina and heart. At stake is the right to claim to be Mexico’s best and most popular pugilist. Despite the consensus that Alvarez will have an easy time with the 31 year old, son of a legend, we expect a very competitive fight. The undercard is interesting; so be there at 1st bell (7 PM, Arizona time).
Iron Boy 38 Update: Phoenix middleweight Andrew “Hurricane” Hernandez (18-5-1) is off the Iron Boy # 38 card at the Celebrity Theatre in Phoenix,Saturday 4/22. I talked to Hernandez prior to the release of this column and the charismatic Arizona native is headed for Montreal, Canada to workout with Canada’s David Lemieux (37-3) in an effort to prepare the ranked super middleweight’s May 6 bout versus Marcos Reyes (35-4) on the Canelo/Chavez fight card at T Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. His bolt from the card perturbed Iron Boy Management and we believe it is safe to say sayonara to a relationship that has been on shaky ground for a long time.
As we went to press, a few other changes to the card need to be noted, thanks to Mr. Hernandez’s decision and a few other significant changes.Lenny Correra vs. Eduardo Ayala is off after Lenny’s dad became seriously ill; please pray for him and his family during their ordeal. Jesus Ibarra and Jesus Aguinaga are two more causalities unavailable for the night.
Here is the latest lineup on the April 22 Iron Boy Card at the Celebrity Theatre in Phoenix. All bouts are subject to change. Iron Boy favorite Francisco C De Vaca isn’t on this card because he is moving up in weight class and isn’t ready to make that move as yet; stay tuned boxing fans! We must inform our readers that Raymond Chacon (6-22) vs. Daron Williams (5-0) is off the card and missing Chacon fight is very good news. Word came in as I was writing this paragraph. I love boxing.
Main Event: Carlos Castro (17-0) return to a ring after a long absence vs. Juan Palacios (29-7-2) in an 8 rounds 122 lb. weight class clash– Co-Main:In a 6 round contest, James McGirt Jr. (25-3-1 draw) takes on tough Roberto Young (5-12-2 draws). Under Card: Luis Espinoza (6-0) vs. Albert Serna for 4 rounds in a 115 lb. bout –Joshua Zuniga 5-0 meets his toughest opponent to date in a six round matchup with 135 lb. Carlos Zatarain (7-3-2) from Mexico. CZ is trained by Andrew Soto according to the Iron Boy Matchmaker and Zuniga will have to work hard to remain undefeated. Adrian Servin (3-0-1 knockout) is ready to fight former MMA fighter Steve Lantry (debut) at 115 in a 4 round matchup. 122 lb. Ryan Riddell (2-0) is set to face Joe Diaz (debut). A win guarantees Riddell two more fights before June 10. Edgar Ortiz (3-1) vs. Jesus Aldagar (0-1) in a 117 lb. 4 round squabble. In the 162 lb. weight class, veterans Artur Akavov (16-21) square off with Jose Ovando (14-13) in a scheduled 8 round contest. Still in the works, Alexis Zazueta (9-0) vs. TBD in a 4 round bout. 147 Ilya Usachev (3-0) returns to Phoenix to take on Shem Prieto (0-1) in a4 round bout. Popular Arizona welterweight Jaime Bojado (1-0) should expect a good fight from Cordell Powell (0-1) in their 4 round toe to toe encounter. Powell was knocked out in his debut by Cesar Valenzuela (7-0) a Mexican fighter considered a bonafide prospect. Most managers wouldn’t have allowed a debut fighter, unless he or she were qualified Olympians, take on an undefeated fighter with 5-7 wins under their belt. Bojado better be ready. Tickets are on sale at the Celebrity and expect a full house. Word has spread that Iron Boy will present a tribute to Six time World Champion Michael Carbajal during intermission.
There will be surprise guests, a video tribute and a message from the champ who has been described by some pundits as the greatest fighter who ever lived. Despite his occasional publicized misadventures, Michael Carbajal remains one of the most beloved athletes on the universe and his accomplishments in the ring are legendary and reason for respect. The applause at the tribute could be deafening, bring your ear plugs- on second thought, just enjoy it.
On August 12, he will be inducted into the Nevada’s Boxing Hall of Fame with Tommy “Hit Man” Hearns, the Spinks Brothers, the late Ken Nortonand many more inducted honoree that comprise the H.O.F. class of 2017. He is simply an Arizona treasure and fans will come to say thank you to a legend and a very humble person who has given back to his community as a way of extolling the virtues learned from his parents. His mother will be there and so will his many fans. Doors open at 5 Pm and first fight begins at6 pm; see you there. Ticket prices range from $30.00-$55.00 + surcharge.
Boxing News: Arizona came very close to hosting a WBO super middleweight title eliminator bout between 20 year old Arizona Native David Benavidez and 28 year old Rogelio “Porky” Medina (37-7-31 knockouts). The ring encounter would have happed on May 20 at one of three locations; but, the in- state promoter (name withheld) was unable to find a suitable venue for the event within the time frame stipulated by PBC, the national promoter for the show. The sites being considered were: Gila River Arena in Glendale, Desert Diamond Casino in Tucson and the Coliseum at the Arizona State Fairgrounds in Phoenix.
I talked to a member of the Arizona negotiating team and he told methe deal was “No Sale” because there wasn’t enough time to get all the ducks lined up. The man called me and asked for help and I gave him last minute advice that didn’t pan out.
David is in Oregon with his trainer/father (Jose Benavidez Sr.) and conditioning coach. In a few days, Team Benavidez heads to Big Bear California for sparring. Texas was rumored as a possible site for the match; however, ABNN is being told, California will host the bout-stay tuned!
More News:Next Arizona Boxing monthly meeting is scheduled for Wednesday April 19 (10 AM) at Commission headquarters; call Norma at 602-364-1721 for directions and if you go- signing in is required……The recent memorial service for USA Boxing Arizona Official Walt Hoskins was well attended (standing room only) and the late boxing mentor received praise from family members, boxing associates and former boxing pupils who described him as a disciplinarian who administered “tough love” in an effort to help people achieve their goals. The service included the customary “10 count” afforded to outstanding members of the boxing community after their passing. Joey “The Boxer” Ruelas was there as was former Hoskins protégé Juanito Garcia (19-3) who smiled when asked if he was resuming his boxing career. Ruelas, looking heavier than his normal fighting weight, confided in a friend at the service that he was still thinking about his future in boxing and hasn’t decided which direction to take. ABNN has sent emails to Mr. Ruelas inquiring about his current boxing status and thus far, he has refused our attempts to inform fans of his ultimate decision.
2 special events: Retired boxing champion Floyd Mayweather will be inducted into the Southern Nevada Sports Hall of Fame on June 2at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas. Also scheduled for induction are: Butch Harmon (Golfer Tiger Woods Coach), Sam Schmidt (race car driver), Overton Curtis (Football) and the Las Vegas Bowl. Dress is Business Casual and event (4-9PM) includes silent auction, Induction Ceremony and dinner The H.O.F. event is open to the public and call Dan at 702-522-7380 for more details. 2017 marks the 5th year for the annual celebration.
ABNN is proud to announce that we expect to be on hand for the induction of six time world boxing champion Michael Carbajal into the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame on Saturday, August 12, 2017. Michael will be joined by an impressive list of Giants in the world of boxing including Tommy “Hit Man” Hearns, The Spinks Brothers, Erik Morales, Lucia Rijker, Salvador Sanchez, Ken Norton, Richie Sandoval, trainer/cut man Rafael Garcia, Dr. Elias Ghanem, public relations specialist Debbie Munch, referee Davey Pearl and promoter Mel Greb.
It will be my first appearance at the event. I met Nevada Boxing H.OF. Chief Operating Officer Michelle Corrales-Lewis years ago in Phoenix and she is a very bright person, perfect for role as head of the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame. The guest list for the event remains unofficial; but, I hear names like Riddick Bowe, George Foreman, etc. It should be a night to remember.
Quick Jabs: ABNN will cover Showdown on the River Parker Smoker hosted by Duckey Boxing on Saturday 4/15. Some folks are staying away from making the trip because its Easter weekend and they want to stay in Phoenix and hunt eggs. Charles and April Duckey (Event host & Hostess) are expecting a good turnout and our next issue will report results. Hammer gym in Phoenix will be represented by George Garcia and his contingent of boxers. Mr. Hammer’s son (Georgie) and his wife of 15 years will stay home in Phoenix and celebrate Easter. The couple celebrated their 15th Wedding Anniversary on Valentine’s Day. The event will be held at the Pirates Den at 7350 Riverside Drive in Parker about 5 miles past casino. For more information, call 928-575-6653…. The two day Annual Arizona women’s Expo at the Phoenix Convention Center is a must attend event for people who need health screenings, free haircuts, massages and health seminars. The event is held at PCC on April 22-23 and readers can get free tickets by going online to Arizona’s Ultimate Women’s Expo and print out a pair of free complimentary tickets. Special guests include Mariel Hemingway, Bo Derek and Vivica A. Fox. It is a fun event for the entire family.
Star Spangled Banner Recap: Madison Boxing hosted a smoker at Greenfield Elementary Gymnasium on Saturday, April 8 and ABNN was on hand to watch all 21 bouts sanctioned by USA Boxing Arizona. A ten count ceremony was introduced by Chief of Officials Richard Soto to acknowledge the passing of Walt Hoskins, USA Boxing Arizona Treasurer and Registration Chairman. Mr. Hoskins was a much respected member of the Arizona Boxing Community. The event started at 5:30 PM and ended at 10:05 PM. ABNN would like to thank everyone especially Richard Soto and his crew of volunteer officials for theiir diligence.
Team Rodriguez Boxing won the Team Trophy and Rodriguez boxer Joel Marquez won best bout performance in defeating Emilio Alvarez from Tucson Southwest. Alvarez was suffering from a severe head cold but didn’t complain after losing his tough fight with Marquez in the 102 lb. weight class.
Here is the list of remaining winners from the event that started at 5:30 P.M. – Adrian Rodriguez (Unattached) 99 lbs.-Ronaldo Plata (El Martillo Boxing) 66 lbs.-Jorge Diaz (Madison Boxing) 145 lbs.-Damien Peinado (Scrapyard Boxing) 125 lbs. – Arturo Duarte (Unattached) 108 lbs.-Daniel Vasquez (Salvation Army) 124 lbs. – Alejandro Gomez (Rodriguez Boxing) 132 lbs.- Othon Carrola (Arizona Fight Club) 123 lbs. – Favian Rojo (Perieda Boxing)125 lbs. – Julian Rodriguez ( Millers Boxing Club) 65 lbs. – Colby Maciel (Central Boxing) 65 lbs. –Ernesto Martinez (Calderon Hit Man) 120 lbs. – Elijah Garcia (Hammer Boxing) 145 lbs. – Steven Shareef (IronGloves) 147 lbs. – Christopher Lopez (IronGloves 160 lbs. – Isiah Henry (Hard Knocks) 180 lbs. – Jose Satillan (Hard Knocks) 132 lbs. – Jalan Rodgers (Power) 180 lbs. – Jose Valenzuela (Unattached) 135 lbs. –Carlos Romero (Millers) 88 lbs.
Parting Shots: With the passing of Walt Hoskins, USA Boxing Arizona will begin the process of finding a replacement for the well tenured Treasurer and Registration Chairman. We hear that Ricky Ricardo Rodriguez is lobbying for the position and Andrew Soto’s name has been mentioned. ABNN hopes the decision is made quickly we encourage members of the Arizona Boxing
Community to volunteer time to aid and strengthen the continuation of Amateur Boxing in Arizona….. Michelle Rosado, aka the “Raging Babe” and the self-proclaimed savior of Boxing in Arizona continues her stint on Blog Talk Radio (The Morning Punch-In Show). Several of our readers have inquired about her whereabouts; so, we came up with this contact address: visit Michelle Rosado @www.michellerosado.com. She is believed to be working on the East coast… The latest Hitz Boxing produced card features the return of Chicago’s super lightweight super lightweight Genaro Mendez (11-3-1-6 knockouts) vs. Erik Fowler (7-7-7- knockouts) at the Belvedere in Chicago’s Elk Grove Village on 4/21. The card also features young super middleweight prospect Tommy “White Lightening” Hughes (1-0) and undefeated welterweight sensation Nick Ramirez (9-0-1-2 knockouts). The former football player turned his passion from carrying the pigskin to throwing punches. He earned a BA in business before launching his career in boxing and his future looks very promising…..Phoenix featherweight Edgar Brito (3-2-1) faces a huge challenge when he does battle with 2016 Olympic Silver medalist Shakur (pro debut) at the Stubhub Center in Carson California on April 22, same day as Central Boxing on 17th Avenue and Van Buren is holding a smoker at 1 p.m. and Iron Boy Promotions will host Iron Boy 38 at 6 p.m., later in the evening. It looks like a full Saturday of boxing and sports when you add Porter vs. Berto (ShowTime) in the mix and the NBA playoffs are ongoing… …..Due to the length of this column we are running our in-depth interview with Ray Mercer in our next issue of Arizona Boxing News & Notes…. Until Next Time!