Rusty Rubin is a veteran boxing writer

Glad to be back after a short absence. Fortunately, for me, but not for boxing, I did not miss very much of importance.

On Feb. 4, at the Alamodome in San Antonio, what shapes up to be a great doubleheader takes place and one that will be shown on HBO.

In one match,, for the WBC middleweight crown heavy fisted Marco Antonio Rubio puts his record of 53-5 1 (46) against fast and undefeated champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. 44-0-1 (31).

Rubio, 31, is shorter and slower than Chavez, but is the bigger puncher. He also has a three inch reach disadvantage.

Great fight, I like Chavez via TKO late.

In the other bout, Wilfredo Vasquez Jr. takes on fast, hard hitting Nonito Donaire from the Philippines.

Vasquez at 27 is two years younger and shows one loss, that to Jorge Arce last year in Vegas. His record is an impressive 21-1 with 18 KO’s.

Donaire, 29, is a southpaw with a two inch reach advantage. His record is 27-1 (18).

Take Donaire by a late TKO, in another great match-up.

Glove 2 Glove:

We lost five boxing guys since my last article (and probably more that I wasn’t notified of). Prayers are asked for the souls of Angelo Dundee, 90, Brian Curtis, 74, Goody Petronelli 88, referee Wayne Kelly and Don Fullmer.

Prayers for the complete return to good health to my old friend, promoter, and ex-wrestler Jack ‘Moe’ Smith who had complete reconstructive knee surgery a couple of weeks back. Moe’s a fighter and making a complete recovery.

Please pray for my Aussie mates and Glove2Glove member John MacDougall, who had to deal with health problems for his wife of many years Gwen, who is in a nursing home John, a former Commissioner is having problems after a hip replacement surgery. Both need your prayers for recovery and inner strength.

Also prayers for the recovery of Mills Lane and Denis Wilcox.

On behalf of these great fighters who have given their all in our great sport, we thank you for your ongoing prayers.

If you know of any boxing people in need of spiritual uplifting and/or prayers? Just drop us a line. Membership is free to all and no one will ever contact you except for prayer requests. Your name will not suddenly appear on anyone’s mailing list. In short, there is no obligation. Every prayer request is welcome and I know the recipient will appreciate it.

God listens!

To join Glove2Glove, or just request needed prayers, drop Dave Wilcox a line at ubtdave@earthlink.net

Glove2Glove, which has been a long-time integral part of the defunct Ringsports.com magazine and website. It is a program I wish to continue a long after I have left the sport and this earth. I want to thank Dave and Deborah Wilcox, who have offered to take over the program and promised to continue it indefinitely. This generous offer means a lot to me. We always welcome new members.***

Thanks and God bless.***

Rusty Rubin, formerly the award winning managing editor of Ringsports.com as well as the now defunct Ringsports Magazine, is the author of three highly acclaimed boxing books! “Woozel, Boxing and Me”, “Off the Canvas” and “Billy Soose, the Champion Time Forgot” co-authored by Tom Donelson. These books are all available at Authorhouse.com, and all major book retailers. They are all more than worth the purchase price, or contact me via this website for a personally autographed copy at a small extra charge.

RUSTY WOULD LIKE TO URGE ALL HIS FRIENDS TO LIST THE FOLLOWING INFO ON YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGE AS WELL AS YOUR E-MAIL. “HAVING BEEN BLESSED WITH SO MANY GREAT PEOPLE IN MY LIFE, I HAVE CHOSEN NOT TO GET INVOLVED WITH NETWORKING, JUST TOO DAMN OLD FOR THAT”.

HENCEFORTH, ALL PROFITS FROM THE SALE OF ANY OR ALL OF THESE BOOKS WILL GO TO THE SUSAN KOMAN FOUNDATION. I ALSO CHALLENGE ALL OTHER JOURNALISTS, BOXING OR OTHERWISE, TO DO WHAT THEY CAN IN THIS EFFORT. IT’S A CHANCE TO CHANGE THE PUBLIC OPION OF THE PRESS, AS WELL AS DOING SOMETHING REALLY IMPORTANT FOR OUR WORLD.

Together we can find a cure for this dread disease and a knockout win for the sport of boxing. Here’s a wonderful chance for you to enjoy a good read for a great cause.

“The sale of any or all of these very enjoyable books will help an important cause (breast cancer research). I personally ask everyone, if they do nothing else, to pass this information along the social networks you use.”

Please take note that my next book will be about “MIRACLES” and I would appreciate any submissions you may deem worthy. Of course names can be withheld by request.

Please allow me to recommend, two other great books, the “Arc of Boxing” by Mike Silver and “My Life among the Icons” by Johnny Ortiz.

In these hard economic times, any or all of these books will make an excellent and inexpensive presents to the boxing fan(s) in your life. They are especially appreciated gifts if the recipient is tired of watching re-runs of sit-coms and the far-less than significant reality shows.

Being somewhat laid-up a bit of late, I should know. At least it gives me some time to try to finish my latest work, which, God willing, will bring us so much closer to curing cancer.

Of course we are all here on the Lord’s schedule and not our own.

Where’s the “Gillette Cavalcade of Sports” when you need it? Make your friend or loved one ‘look sharp’, ‘feel sharp’ and be ‘sharp.’ So how are you fixed for books? You’d better check’ to parrot an old commercial.

You and the book-gift recipient will be glad you made the right choice (or the write choice)!***

Keep punching, always….Rusty

Rusty Rubin is a veteran boxing writer

Interesting an important fight at Madison Square Garden this week, on HBO PPV, and should be worth the price.

Miguel Cotto, from Puerto Rico lays his WBA Jr. Middleweight title on the line against hard punching (particularly with loaded gloves) Antonio Margarito from Mexico.

Since the fight will be in New York, you know the fans will be heavily in favor of Cotto, 36-2, (29), who, at 31, is two years younger than his foe, who defeated him in Las Vegas.

Margarito, 28-7, has a big height and reach advantage always seems to have problems with his defense, or lack of. If Cotto gets inside, consistently, he’ll have Margarito fighting off the ropes and canvas most of the fight.

I figure that will be the case here. Cotto by decision.

Glove 2 Glove:

We lost two great heavyweight champs recently in Joe Frazier and Ron Lyle. Please say prayers for their souls.

Prayers for the soul of legendary cutman Joe Sousa who was one of the best in the business, if not the best.

Prayers also asked for the souls of Howard Harpst, father of Steve, a well known sculpture artist in Southern California and former champ Hector Lopez who also left us and boxing a sadder place.

We ask for prayers for Allen Syers, former fighter, who is now battling the toughest opponent he has ever faced, cancer.

A young lad, Kyle Thompson Jr. was having some health issues and with your prayers has gotten better….Sincere thanks.

Prayers for the return to health for Hall of fame promoter Don Fraser; who is recovering after undergoing some serious surgery.

Prayers for good health and birthday wishes for boxing lady and good friend Shelley Williams of Las Vegas.

Prayers are requested for the health of outstanding trainer Joe Sousa, who is fighting the fight of his life against cancer.

Prayers for the complete return to good health to my old friend, promoter, and ex-wrestler Jack ‘Moe’ Smith who had complete reconstructive knee surgery a couple of weeks back. Moe’s a fighter and making a complete recovery.

Please pray for my Aussie mates and Glove2Glove member John MacDougall, who had to deal with health problems for his wife of many years Gwen, who is in a nursing home John, a former Commissioner is having problems after a hip replacement surgery. Both need your prayers for recovery and inner strength.

Prayers for the soul of Audrey Talmo who passed away last week. Audrey was the wife of solid boxing guy and Glove2Glove member Ed.

Also prayers for the recovery of Mills Lane and Denis Wilcox.

Needless to say we need prayers for the return to health of former champ Gerald McClellan, who is confined to wheelchairs.

On behalf of these great fighters who have given their all in our great sport, we thank you for your ongoing prayers.

If you know of any boxing people in need of spiritual uplifting and/or prayers? Just drop us a line. Membership is free to all and no one will ever contact you except for prayer requests. Your name will not suddenly appear on anyone’s mailing list. In short, there is no obligation. Every prayer request is welcome and I know the recipient will appreciate it.

God listens!

Rusty Rubin, formerly the award winning managing editor of Ringsports.com as well as the now defunct Ringsports Magazine, is the author of three highly acclaimed boxing books! “Woozel, Boxing and Me”, “Off the Canvas” and “Billy Soose, the Champion Time Forgot” co-authored by Tom Donelson. These books are all available at Authorhouse.com, and all major book retailers. They are all more than worth the purchase price, or contact me via this website for a personally autographed copy at a small extra charge.

RUSTY WOULD LIKE TO URGE ALL HIS FRIENDS TO LIST THE FOLLOWING INFO ON YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGE AS WELL AS YOUR E-MAIL. “HAVING BEEN BLESSED WITH SO MANY GREAT PEOPLE IN MY LIFE, I HAVE CHOSEN NOT TO GET INVOLVED WITH NETWORKING, JUST TOO DAMN OLD FOR THAT”.

HENCEFORTH, ALL PROFITS FROM THE SALE OF ANY OR ALL OF THESE BOOKS WILL GO TO THE SUSAN KOMAN FOUNDATION. I ALSO CHALLENGE ALL OTHER JOURNALISTS, BOXING OR OTHERWISE, TO DO WHAT THEY CAN IN THIS EFFORT. IT’S A CHANCE TO CHANGE THE PUBLIC OPION OF THE PRESS, AS WELL AS DOING SOMETHING REALLY IMPORTANT FOR OUR WORLD.

Together we can find a cure for this dread disease and a knockout win for the sport of boxing. Here’s a wonderful chance for you to enjoy a good read for a great cause.

“The sale of any or all of these very enjoyable books will help an important cause (breast cancer research). I personally ask everyone, if they do nothing else, to pass this information along the social networks you use.”

Please allow me to recommend, two other great books, the “Arc of Boxing” by Mike Silver and “My Life among the Icons” by Johnny Ortiz.

In these hard economic times, any or all of these books will make an excellent and inexpensive presents to the boxing fan(s) in your life. They are especially appreciated gifts if the recipient is tired of watching re-runs of sit-coms and the far-less than significant reality shows.

Being somewhat laid-up a bit of late, I should know. At least it gives me some time to try to finish my latest work, which, God willing, will bring us so much closer to curing cancer.

Of course we are all here on the Lord’s schedule and not our own.

Where’s the “Gillette Cavalcade of Sports” when you need it? Make your friend or loved one ‘look sharp’, ‘feel sharp’ and be ‘sharp.’ So how are you fixed for books? You’d better check’ to parrot an old commercial.

You and the book-gift recipient will be glad you made the right choice (or the write choice)!***

Keep punching, always….Rusty

Rusty Rubin is a veteran boxing writer

Since there’s a bit of a lull in major events right now, I heave decided to use most of this space to answering many questions that I get over the course of a year.

The most frequent question asked of me is; ‘is Ring Sports Magazine or the website up for sale’? The simple answer is yes, if the buyer can prove to me that he can maintain the quality we had over the years. It’s not the money here, but the hard-earned reputation. If agreement on a sale is reached, I will return whatever original investments there were, and donate the remainder to the Susan Komen Foundation for breast cancer research.

‘If my best friend “Woozel” died of colon cancer, why am I working on helping those with breast cancer’? The answer to that one is simple; I believe that once a gene is found to cure breast cancer, we are that much closer to the cure of many other cancers. Cancer is an ugly disease and it’s long past time that it is wiped off the face of the Earth. Even if we can save just one life, we are doing a very important thing as well as sending an important message.

‘Are back issues of the magazine available and if so, for how much money’? Most back issues are and the cost is $1.00 per issue plus postage. I’ve tried to keep them as it’s still my memory and my gift to the sport of boxing. If you want a specific issue, we’ll try to find it for you for an extra 50 cents for the labor. We many even have pictures of your favorite fighter….We can check that out for you and charge accordingly…Again, in any event ALL proceeds after the labor of finding and mailing, will go to the Omen Foundation.

A lot of people want to know ‘how I see the Pacquiao – Mayweather fight’. Simply put, although it’s a mega fight, it probably will never happen. Mayweather doesn’t seem to want to step up to the plate, and if he ever does, he probably will be a lot older and slower than he is today.

‘Am I officially retired as a sports/boxing journalist’? If by that you mean do I no longer get paid for my hard efforts? It’s always been a labor of love. Simply, I’ve never gotten paid more than travel allowances and a small stipend for food and board. I love the sport and the people in it. However, physically, there is no way I can cover any live fights any longer. These old back injuries just won’t hold up for long.

‘What do I consider my greatest award’? Truthfully, while I’ve been honored many times, my greatest reward is working with young talented writers and seeing them move up in the journalistic world. I’d like to think I gave them the edge they needed to get over the top.

‘Best fighter I ever saw’? While I met the great Sugar Ray Robinson, I never saw him ‘live’ in the ring. I did however see Archie Moore, live, and I’ll go with him as my top choice.

And another frequent question I am asked, ‘do I see a bright future for boxing’?
With the advent of various forms of MMA and the closing of most ring publications as well as boxing gyms around us, it’s hard to see a very bright future for our sport. But I remain an optimist. We’ve been down before and we’ve always been able to beat the ten count. It may not come in my lifetime, but boxing will again see resurgence.

Glove 2 Glove:

Prayers for the soul of legendary cut-man Joe Sousa who was one of the best in the business, if not the best.

Prayers also asked for the souls of Howard Harpst, father of Steve, a well known sculpture artist in Southern California and former champ Hector Lopez who also left us and boxing a sadder place.

We ask for prayers for Allan Syers, former lightweight fighter, who is now battling the toughest opponent he has ever faced, cancer.

A young lad, Kyle Thompson Jr. was having some health issues and with your prayers has gotten better….Sincere thanks.

Prayers for the return to health for Hall of fame promoter Don Fraser; who is recovering after undergoing some serious surgery.

Prayers for good health and birthday wishes for boxing lady and good friend Shelley Williams of Las Vegas.

Prayers are requested for the health of outstanding trainer Joe Sousa, who is fighting the fight of his life against cancer.

Prayers for the complete return to good health to my old friend, promoter, and ex-wrestler Jack ‘Moe’ Smith who had complete reconstructive knee surgery a couple of weeks back. Moe’s a fighter and making a complete recovery.

Please pray for my Aussie mates and Glove2Glove member John MacDougall, who had to deal with health problems for his wife of many years Gwen, who is in a nursing home John, a former Commissioner is having problems after a hip replacement surgery. Both need your prayers for recovery and inner strength.

Prayers for the soul of Audrey Talmo who passed away last week. Audrey was the wife of solid boxing guy and Glove2Glove member Ed.
On behalf of these great fighters who have given their all in our great sport, we thank you for your ongoing prayers.

If you know of any boxing people in need of spiritual uplifting and/or prayers? Just drop us a line. Membership is free to all and no one will ever contact you except for prayer requests. Your name will not suddenly appear on anyone’s mailing list. In short, there is no obligation. Every prayer request is welcome and I know the recipient will appreciate it.

God listens!

To join Glove2Glove, or just request needed prayers, drop Dave Wilcox a line at ubtdave@earthlink.net

Glove2Glove, which has been a long-time integral part of the defunct Ringsports.com magazine and website. It is a program I wish to continue a long after I have left the sport and this earth. I want to thank Dave and Deborah Wilcox, who have offered to take over the program and promised to continue it indefinitely. This generous offer means a lot to me. We always welcome new members.***

Thanks and God bless.***

Rusty Rubin, formerly the award winning managing editor of Ringsports.com as well as the now defunct Ringsports Magazine, is the author of three highly acclaimed boxing books! “Woozel, Boxing and Me”, “Off the Canvas” and “Billy Soose, the Champion Time Forgot” co-authored by Tom Donelson. These books are all available at Authorhouse.com, and all major book retailers. They are all more than worth the purchase price, or contact me via this website for a personally autographed copy at a small extra charge.

RUSTY WOULD LIKE TO URGE ALL HIS FRIENDS TO LIST THE FOLLOWING INFO ON YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGE AS WELL AS YOUR E-MAIL. “HAVING BEEN BLESSED WITH SO MANY GREAT PEOPLE IN MY LIFE, I HAVE CHOSEN NOT TO GET INVOLVED WITH NETWORKING, JUST TOO DAMN OLD FOR THAT”.

HENCEFORTH, ALL PROFITS FROM THE SALE OF ANY OR ALL OF THESE BOOKS WILL GO TO THE SUSAN KOMAN FOUNDATION. I ALSO CHALLENGE ALL OTHER JOURNALISTS, BOXING OR OTHERWISE, TO DO WHAT THEY CAN IN THIS EFFORT. IT’S A CHANCE TO CHANGE THE PUBLIC OPION OF THE PRESS, AS WELL AS DOING SOMETHING REALLY IMPORTANT FOR OUR WORLD.

Together we can find a cure for this dread disease and a knockout win for the sport of boxing. Here’s a wonderful chance for you to enjoy a good read for a great cause.

“The sale of any or all of these very enjoyable books will help an important cause (breast cancer research). I personally ask everyone, if they do nothing else, to pass this information along the social networks you use.”

In these hard economic times, any or all of these books will make an excellent and inexpensive presents to the boxing fan(s) in your life. They are especially appreciated gifts if the recipient is tired of watching re-runs of sit-coms and the far-less than significant reality shows.

Being somewhat laid-up a bit of late, I should know. At least it gives me some time to try to finish my latest work, which, God willing, will bring us so much closer to curing cancer.

Of course we are all here on the Lord’s schedule and not our own.

Where’s the “Gillette Cavalcade of Sports” when you need it? Make your friend or loved one ‘look sharp’, ‘feel sharp’ and be ‘sharp.’ So how are you fixed for books? You’d better check’ to parrot an old commercial.

You and the book-gift recipient will be glad you made the right choice (or the write choice)!***

Keep punching, always….Rusty

Rusty Rubin is a veteran boxing writer

Two important fights at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas this weekend and on paper they look like easy fights to pick. But boxing matches are not fought on paper; they are fought in the ring.

In the semi-main, for the WBO Jr. Welterweight title, Tim Bradley, 27-0 (11) takes on always tough Cuban veteran Joel Casamayor.

At 28, Bradley is 12 years the junior, and sports a record of 27-0, with 11 coming by way of knockout.

Casamayor, is 38-5-1 with 22 knockouts, but the biggest factor in this fight may just be that he is a southpaw.

That means veteran referee Vic Drakulich must be on the alert for head butts, but he has proven quite able to do that.

Bradley by decision.

The main event pits Manny Pacquiao, 32, considered by most to be the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world today, against ring savvy veteran Juan Manuel Marquez, 38.

Pacquiao, 53-3-2 (38), a non-stop southpaw should have the edge in the earlier rounds, as Marquez, 53-5-1 (39), has traditionally been a very slow starter.

In their previous two match-ups, and both have been close, Pacquiao had to work hard just to earn a draw and a split decision. This is not as easy a fight as some may think.

Tony Weeks is the referee in this contest, and could well have his hands full with two very strong and game competitors.

Pacquiao has the most to lose, as he (as seems always) faces a possible match-up with Floyd Mayweather Jr. in a huge money-event for both.

Go with Pacquiao to take a tough, hard fought unanimous decision.

Glove 2 Glove:

Prayers for the soul of former champion and heavyweight all-time great, Joe Frazier, who passed away from liver cancer on Monday.

Prayers for the soul of former heavyweight contender Tom McNeeley, father of heavyweight Peter, who passed away in Boston.

A young lad, Kyle Thompson Jr. was having some health issues and with your prayers has gotten better….Sincere thanks.

Prayers for the return to health for Hall of fame promoter Don Fraser; who is recovering after undergoing some serious surgery.

Prayers for good health and birthday wishes for boxing lady and good friend Shelley Williams of Las Vegas.

Prayers for the soul of Audrey Talmo who passed away last week. Audrey was the wife of solid boxing guy and Glove2Glove member Ed.

On behalf of these great fighters who have given their all in our great sport, we thank you for your ongoing prayers.

God listens!

Thanks and God bless.***

Rusty Rubin, formerly the award winning managing editor of Ringsports.com as well as the now defunct Ringsports Magazine, is the author of three highly acclaimed boxing books! “Woozel, Boxing and Me”, “Off the Canvas” and “Billy Soose, the Champion Time Forgot” co-authored by Tom Donelson. These books are all available at Authorhouse.com, and all major book retailers. They are all more than worth the purchase price, or contact me via this website for a personally autographed copy at a small extra charge.

Keep punching, always….Rusty

Jorge Linares was well ahead on the scorecards, when Antonio DeMarco landed some solid punches and stopped him in round 10. Linares could have backed away and won the fight on the cards, but as we have seen many times before, that Latino machismo wouldn’t allow that to happen.

Time to like our wounds and move on.

This week we have what should be an action packed fight from Madison Square Garden in New York.

Nonito Donaire, 26-1 (18) puts his WBC bantamweight crown on the line against veteran Omar Navarez, 35-0-2 (23) who holds the WBO title.

Normally I don’t like battles between two southpaws because they tend to be dull, but I just can’t see either of this battlers doing anything but letting loose.

Donaire, 28, is eight years younger than Navarez, who seems to do all his fighting (and winning) in Argentina. Taking nothing away from Navarez, it’s hard to comment on a fighter you rarely if ever see.

But the sheet says Donaire also has the edge in the height and reach department, and his only loss came ten years ago.

On paper a great action fight, but I’ll go with Donaire who should be the favorite of the NYC crowd.

Nonito by stoppage.

Glove 2 Glove:

A young lad, Kyle Thompson Jr. is having some health issues and is in need of your prayers.

Prayers for female boxer Ishika Lay, who is in the hospital as a result of a possible fight related injury.

Prayers for the return to health for Hall of fame promoter Don Fraser; who is recovering after undergoing some serious surgery.

Prayers for good health and birthday wishes for boxing lady and good friend Shelley Williams of Las Vegas.

Prayers are requested for the health of outstanding trainer Joe Sousa, who is fighting the fight of his life against cancer.

Prayers for the complete return to good health to my old friend, promoter, and ex-wrestler Jack ‘Moe’ Smith who had complete reconstructive knee surgery a couple of weeks back. Moe’s a fighter and making a complete recovery.

On behalf of these great fighters who have given their all in our great sport, we thank you for your ongoing prayers.

God listens!

Rusty Rubin, formerly the award winning managing editor of Ringsports.com as well as the now defunct Ringsports Magazine, is the author of three highly acclaimed boxing books! “Woozel, Boxing and Me”, “Off the Canvas” and “Billy Soose, the Champion Time Forgot” co-authored by Tom Donelson. These books are all available at Authorhouse.com, and all major book retailers. They are all more than worth the purchase price, or contact me via this website for a personally autographed copy at a small extra charge.

RUSTY WOULD LIKE TO ANNOUNCE THAT HENCEFORTH, ALL PROFITS FROM THE SALE OF ANY OR ALL OF THESE BOOKS WILL GO TO THE SUSAN KOMAN FOUNDATION. I CHALLENGE ALL OTHER JOURNALISTS, BOXING OR OTHERWISE, TO DO WHAT THEY CAN IN THIS EFFORT. IT’S A CHANCE TO CHANGE THE PUBLIC OPION OF THE PRESS, AS WELL AS DOING SOMETHING REALLY IMPORTANT FOR OUR WORLD.

Here’s a wonderful chance for you to read and enjoy any or all of these great books and help a wonderful cause (breast cancer) in exchange. I personally ask everyone to pass this information along. I will be sending out a public service announcement on this shortly.

In these hard economic times, any or all of these books will make an excellent and inexpensive presents to the boxing fan(s) in your life. They are especially appreciated gifts if the recipient is tired of watching re-runs of sit-coms and the far-less than significant reality shows.

Being somewhat laid-up a bit of late, I should know

Where’s the “Gillette Cavalcade of Sports” when you need it? Make your friend or loved one ‘look sharp’, ‘feel sharp’ and be ‘sharp.’ So how are you fixed for books? You’d better check’ to parrot an old commercial.

You and the book-gift recipient will be glad you made the right choice (or the write choice)!***

Keep punching, always….Rusty

Rusty Rubin is a veteran boxing writer

A couple of good match-ups on HBO PPV, from Los Angeles, on October 15.

First, Jorge Linares takes on Antonio DeMarco in an important lightweight fight.

Linares, 31-1 with 20 KO’s is 26 years of age, making him one year older than his southpaw foe.

DeMarco, no slouch in his own right, enters the ring with a record of 25-2, with eighteen of those wins coming via the KO route. He has a slight height and reach advantage, which he may need when fighting a tough opponent like Linares.

Should be a great, action packed battle, but I’ll give the edge to Linares, who seems to really be a future champion in the making.

The main event on the card features the never-grow-old “Executioner”, Bernard Hopkins, 52-5-2 (32).

His opponent in this light heavyweight match-up is “Bad” Chad Dawson, a strong southpaw, who sports an impressive 30-1 mark with 17 of them coming by way of knockout.

Both fighters come in with the same height (6’1”), but Dawson has an inch and half reach advantage.

It’s hard to say when a fighter is on his last legs, particularly someone who still looks impressive at age 46, like Hopkins.

I don’t see this being an overly exciting fight, but the difference may well be in ring generalship and a solid chin. Hopkins has never been knocked out.

So, until Father Time catches up with BHop, I’ll take him to win a one-sided decision here.

Glove 2 Glove:

Prayers for the return to health for Hall of fame promoter Don Fraser; who will be undergoing some serious surgery soon.

Prayers for good health and birthday wishes for boxing lady and good friend Shelley Williams of Las Vegas.

Prayers are requested for the health of outstanding trainer Joe Sousa, who is fighting the fight of his life against cancer.
Please say prayers for Phill Grazide of Santa Rosa, CA. a big supporter of amateur boxing, who is suffering the crippling effects of rheumatoid arthritis.

Needless to say we need prayers for the return to health of former champ Gerald McClellan, who is confined to wheelchairs.

On behalf of these great fighters who have given their all in our great sport, we thank you for your ongoing prayers.

If you know of any boxing people in need of spiritual uplifting and/or prayers? Just drop us a line. Membership is free to all and no one will ever contact you except for prayer requests. Your name will not suddenly appear on anyone’s mailing list. In short, there is no obligation. Every prayer request is welcome and I know the recipient will appreciate it.

God listens!

To join Glove2Glove, or just request needed prayers, drop Dave Wilcox a line at ubtdave@earthlink.net

Glove2Glove, which has been a long-time integral part of the defunct Ringsports.com magazine and website. It is a program I wish to continue a long after I have left the sport and this earth. I want to thank Dave and Deborah Wilcox, who have offered to take over the program and promised to continue it indefinitely. This generous offer means a lot to me. We always welcome new members.***

Thanks and God bless,

Rusty

Rusty Rubin is a veteran boxing writer

This Saturday, October 8, in the Philippines, local favorite Donnie Nietes takes on tough Mexican Ramon Garcia for the WBO light flyweight title.

I’m never completely sure of the fighters in these smaller weight classes. The one thing I do know is that these guys can mix it up with anyone.

Nietes, 29, comes in with a 28-1-3 record with 16 knockouts. Those three draws causes a bit of wonder, as does his one loss in Indonesia, not always noted for having the best officials.

Garcia 16-2-1, (19) is also 29, but he is a southpaw.

All this brings to mind that this will probably be an offensive blood bath, (and I’ve been at ringside for a few) ending early, perhaps even early enough to go to a non-decision.

But having seen little to none of either fighter, I’ll take the local favorite, Nietes, by an early TKO.

Glove 2 Glove:

Prayers for the return to health for Hall of fame promoter Don Fraser; who will be undergoing some serious surgery this week.

Prayers for good health and birthday wishes for boxing lady and good friend Shelley Williams of Las Vegas.

On behalf of these great fighters who have given their all in our great sport, we thank you for your ongoing prayers.

If you know of any boxing people in need of spiritual uplifting and/or prayers? Just drop us a line. Membership is free to all and no one will ever contact you except for prayer requests. Your name will not suddenly appear on anyone’s mailing list. In short, there is no obligation. Every prayer request is welcome and I know the recipient will appreciate it.

God listens!

To join Glove2Glove, or just request needed prayers, drop Dave Wilcox a line at ubtdave@earthlink.net

Glove2Glove, which has been a long-time integral part of the defunct Ringsports.com magazine and website. It is a program I wish to continue a long after I have left the sport and this earth. I want to thank Dave and Deborah Wilcox, who have offered to take over the program and promised to continue it indefinitely. This generous offer means a lot to me. We always welcome new members.***

Thanks and God bless.***

Rusty Rubin, formerly the award winning managing editor of Ringsports.com as well as the now defunct Ringsports Magazine, is the author of three highly acclaimed boxing books! “Woozel, Boxing and Me”, “Off the Canvas” and “Billy Soose, the Champion Time Forgot” co-authored by Tom Donelson. These books are all available at Authorhouse.com, and all major book retailers. They are all more than worth the purchase price, or contact me via this website for a personally autographed copy at a small extra charge.

AS PROMISED: I WOULD LIKE TO ANNOUNCE THAT HENCEFORTH, ALL PROFITS FROM THE SALE OF THESE BOOKS WILL GO TO THE SUSAN KOMAN FOUNDATION. I CHALLENGE ALL OTHER JOURNALISTS TO DO WHAT THEY CAN IN THIS EFFORT. IT’S A CHANCE TO CHANGE THE PUBLIC OPION OF THE PRESS.

Here’s a wonderful chance for you to read and enjoy any or all of these great books and help a wonderful cause (breast cancer) in exchange. I personally ask everyone to pass this information along. I will be sending out a public service announcement on this shortly.

In these hard economic times, any or all of these books will make an excellent and inexpensive presents to the boxing fan(s) in your life. They are especially appreciated gifts if the recipient is tired of watching re-runs of sit-coms and the far-less than significant reality shows.

Being somewhat laid-up a bit of late, I should know

Where’s the “Gillette Cavalcade of Sports” when you need it? Make your friend or loved one ‘look sharp’, ‘feel sharp’ and be ‘sharp.’ So how are you fixed for books? You’d better check’ to parrot an old commercial.

You and the book-gift recipient will be glad you made the right choice (or the write choice)!***

Keep punching, always….Rusty

Rusty Rubin is a veteran boxing writer

This Saturday, September 17, in Las Vegas, Floyd Mayweather Jr. makes his yearly appearance by taking on hard hitting Victor Ortiz in match televised on HBO Pay-Per-View.

Ortiz surprised the boxing world with an upset of then undefeated Andre Berto, in his last fight, earning him this match.

I always wonder why a guy who can earn so much money doesn’t fight more, but the record does show he has some external legal problems. It has also been noted by former promoter Bob Arum of Top Rank, that Mayweather seems to have some mental problems as well. This remark has been dismissed by Golden Boy Promotions.

Ortiz, 24 is ten years the junior of Mayweather, but although one can question his defense (or lack of) you can question his punching power or his heart.

The fight itself is a good one for Mayweather to take, as Ortiz, 29-2 with 22 knockouts, like Manny Pacquiao (rumored to be his next opponent), is a hard-hitting southpaw.

Of course, a loss here is going to hurt the drawing power of Mayweather, 41-0, (29) when and if such a match is made.

Ortiz is a bit taller, but it’s Mayweather with the longer reach, and Ortiz has shown an inability to avoid being hit.

The major risk that I feel can hurt Mayweather is a clash of heads, not unheard of when a southpaw fights a conventional fighter. Veteran referee Joe Cortez handles the bout, which does add to the safety of both fighters.

Sounds like a great fight on paper, and may well be worth the Pay-Per-View price.

Pick? Mayweather on a stoppage midway.***

Glove 2 Glove:

Prayers are requested for the soul of former featherweight Eddie “The Hawk” Rodriguez, who passed away at age 79.

Prayers are requested for the health of outstanding trainer Joe Sousa, who is fighting the fight of his life against cancer.

Prayers for the complete return to good health to my old friend, promoter, and ex-wrestler Jack ‘Moe’ Smith who had complete reconstructive knee surgery a couple of weeks back. Moe’s a fighter and making a complete recovery.

Please pray for my Aussie mates and Glove2Glove member John MacDougall, who had to deal with health problems for his wife of many years Gwen, who is in a nursing home John, a former Commissioner is having problems after a hip replacement surgery. Both need your prayers for recovery and inner strength.

Prayers for Audrey Talmo, wife of solid boxing guy and Glove2Glove member Ed. Also prayers for the recovery of Mills Lane and Denis Wilcox.

Please say prayers for Phill Grazide of Santa Rosa, CA. a big supporter of amateur boxing, who is suffering the crippling effects of rheumatoid arthritis.

Needless to say we need prayers for the return to health of former champ Gerald McClellan, who is confined to wheelchairs.

On behalf of these great fighters who have given their all in our great sport, we thank you for your ongoing prayers.

If you know of any boxing people in need of spiritual uplifting and/or prayers? Just drop me a line at RustyRubin@sbcglobal.net … membership is free to all and no one will ever contact you except for prayer requests. Your name will not suddenly appear on anyone’s mailing list. In short, there is no obligation. Every prayer request is welcome and I know the recipient will appreciate it.

God listens!

Rusty Rubin is a veteran boxing writer

This Saturday, September 10, in Poland, Vitali Klitschko, the senior of the two world heavyweight champion brothers, puts his title on the line in a match televised on HBO.

His opponent, Tomasz Adamek, 34, and a native of Poland, comes in with a 44-1 record with 28 knockouts.

Vitali, 6 years older, enters the match with a 42-2 record with 39 of them coming via the KO route.

Heavyweight matches are usually prone to upsets because we know at that weight, every punch has some power.

That gives Adamek a pinchers chance. But that, his youth and the home court advantage are about all he has the edge in.

Klitschko, always in shape, at 6’ 7” has a five and a height advantage and a five inch edge in the reach department.

Unless Vitali grows old in hurry, or the judges lean towards the local favorite, Klitschko should win via a unanimous decision.

Glove 2 Glove:

Prayers for the soul of former boxing manager Pat Petronelli, who along with his brother Goody managed many top fighters over the years, including “Marvelous” Marvin Hagler.

We also ask prayers for up and coming South African fighter, Bongani Diamini, who was killed in a car accident at age 24.

On behalf of these great fighters who have given their all in our great sport, we thank you for your ongoing prayers.

If you know of any boxing people in need of spiritual uplifting and/or prayers? Just drop us a line. Membership is free to all and no one will ever contact you except for prayer requests. Your name will not suddenly appear on anyone’s mailing list. In short, there is no obligation. Every prayer request is welcome and I know the recipient will appreciate it.

God listens!

To join Glove2Glove, or just request needed prayers, drop Dave Wilcox a line at ubtdave@earthlink.net

Glove2Glove, which has been a long-time integral part of the defunct Ringsports.com magazine and website. It is a program I wish to continue a long after I have left the sport and this earth. I want to thank Dave and Deborah Wilcox, who have offered to take over the program and promised to continue it indefinitely. This generous offer means a lot to me. We always welcome new members.***

Thanks and God bless.***

Rusty Rubin, formerly the award winning managing editor of Ringsports.com as well as the now defunct Ringsports Magazine, is the author of three highly acclaimed boxing books! “Woozel, Boxing and Me”, “Off the Canvas” and “Billy Soose, the Champion Time Forgot” co-authored by Tom Donelson. These books are all available at Authorhouse.com, and all major book retailers. They are all more than worth the purchase price, or contact me via this website for a personally autographed copy at a small extra charge.

Expect a major announcement soon about these three notable books.

Please allow me to recommend, two other great books, the “Arc of Boxing” by Mike Silver and “My Life among the Icons” by Johnny Ortiz.

In these hard economic times, any or all of these books will make an excellent and inexpensive presents to the boxing fan(s) in your life. They are especially appreciated gifts if the recipient is tired of watching re-runs of sit-coms and the far-less than significant reality shows.

Being somewhat laid-up a bit of late, I should know

Where’s the “Gillette Cavalcade of Sports” when you need it? Make your friend or loved one ‘look sharp’, ‘feel sharp’ and be ‘sharp.’ So how are you fixed for books? You’d better check’ to parrot an old commercial.

You and the book-gift recipient will be glad you made the right choice (or the write choice)!***

Keep punching, always….Rusty

Rusty Rubin is a veteran boxing writer

Zaveck, 35, from Slovenia, is not well known in this country and his list of foes is not the ‘Who’s Who’ in the division. That doesn’t mean he can’t fight and can’t score a major upset here.

Zaveck boasts a record of 31-1 with 18 of those wins coming via the knockout route. His only loss was via a split decision in November of 2008.

Berto, 27, is considered by many as one of the top welterweights in the world and comes into this match at 27-1 with 21 knockouts. His only loss was in his last fight against Victor Ortiz, who, as a result, will be fighting Floyd Mayweather. The winner of that fight is likely to fight Manny Pacquiao next.

Berto has fought better known competition; he’s eight years younger than Zaveck and has a ½” edge in height.

This looks like an easy win for Berto, but in boxing, nothing is easy. Just because Zaveck hasn’t fought the ‘names’ in boxing doesn’t mean he can’t win in this interesting mach.

But, in this case I just don’t see it happening. The younger and seemingly stronger Berto should stop Zaveck somewhere in the middle rounds.

Glove 2 Glove:

Prayers for the soul of former heavyweight tough guy, Scott LeDoux, 63, who succumbed to ALS last week.

Also for the soul of Brett Lally, another tough guy who passed on at age 48.

Prayers are requested for the health of outstanding trainer Joe Sousa, who is fighting the fight of his life against cancer.

Prayers for the complete return to good health to my old friend, promoter, and ex-wrestler Jack ‘Moe’ Smith who had complete reconstructive knee surgery a couple of weeks back. Moe’s a fighter and making a complete recovery.

Please pray for my Aussie mates and Glove2Glove member John MacDougall, who had to deal with health problems for his wife of many years Gwen, who is in a nursing home John, a former Commissioner is having problems after a hip replacement surgery. Both need your prayers for recovery and inner strength.

On behalf of these great fighters who have given their all in our great sport, we thank you for your ongoing prayers.

If you know of any boxing people in need of spiritual uplifting and/or prayers? Just drop us a line. Membership is free to all and no one will ever contact you except for prayer requests. Your name will not suddenly appear on anyone’s mailing list. In short, there is no obligation. Every prayer request is welcome and I know the recipient will appreciate it.

God listens!

To join Glove2Glove, or just request needed prayers, drop Dave Wilcox a line at ubtdave@earthlink.net

Glove2Glove, which has been a long-time integral part of the defunct Ringsports.com magazine and website. It is a program I wish to continue a long after I have left the sport and this earth. I want to thank Dave and Deborah Wilcox, who have offered to take over the program and promised to continue it indefinitely. This generous offer means a lot to me. We always welcome new members.***

Thanks and God bless.***

Rusty Rubin, formerly the award winning managing editor of Ringsports.com as well as the now defunct Ringsports Magazine, is the author of three highly acclaimed boxing books! “Woozel, Boxing and Me”, “Off the Canvas” and “Billy Soose, the Champion Time Forgot” co-authored by Tom Donelson. These books are all available at Authorhouse.com, and all major book retailers. They are all more than worth the purchase price, or contact me via this website for a personally autographed copy at a small extra charge.

Expect a major announcement soon about these three notable books.

Where’s the “Gillette Cavalcade of Sports” when you need it? Make your friend or loved one ‘look sharp’, ‘feel sharp’ and be ‘sharp.’ So how are you fixed for books? You’d better check’ to parrot an old commercial.

You and the book-gift recipient will be glad you made the right choice (or the write choice)!***

Keep punching, always….Rusty