Welcome to the 3 Rivers Fight Club

[DJgreen_72]

07-07-1990
Harrah's Casino
Atlantic City, NJ.

2,200 enthusiastic fight fans were on hand at Harrah's Atlantic City for a fight card co-headlined by Gerry Cooney vs Oliver McCall and undefeated Virgil Hill successfully defending his WBA Light Heavyweight title against Tyrone Frazier by unanimous decision. And on the undercard...


FW Juan Nieto had an easy time against Japanese born club fighter Sojuro Watanabe. Nieto won every round on way to a 4 round unanimous decision to move to 3-0 for his career.

Dave "The Cobra" Anthony made the jump to MW, fighting at 160pd for the first time in his career. He was matched up against journeyman Ralph Moncrief (24-12/12KO) who has been in the ring with likes of James Kinchen, Sumbu Kalambay and Mike McCallum. After a "feeling out" round in the 1st, Anthony took control of the bout. Anthony picked apart the overmatched Montcrief opening a nasty cut over his left eye in the fourth and dropping him with a right hook in the 5th for the 10 count to win by KO and move to 14-0(11).


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"Gentleman" Gerry Cooney (32-2/27KO)
vs
"The Atomic Bull" Oliver McCall (14-3/9KO)

Cooney, who had won his past four fights since joining the 3 Rivers Fight Club, would be up against his toughest test to date. Despite his lackluster record, McCall was talented and a big step up over the fighters Cooney had been facing. The fight was close through 5 rounds with McCall having a slight lead on two of the three judges cards. He withstood the hardest shots Cooney had to offer and outworked him with counter punches and slowly and methodically wore him down. The fight was a rough affair with both men receiving multiple warnings from the referee.

By the 6th, Cooney was tiring and began looking for the one punch knock out. McCall won the 6th round and the 7th was very even. McCall dominated the 8th but had a point deduction for low blows late in the round that left it 9-9 on the cards. Cooney and kept looking for the big punch and it came in the 9th...

...McCall lands a violent shot under Conney's ribcage and Cooney instantly falls down on both knees!

Cooney surived the knockdown and finished the round but was trailing on the scorecards. Cooney showed heart and determination, winning the 10th but his power was gone, replaced by fatigue, and he was unable to score a knock down in the final round. The fight was in the hands of the judges and their wasn't much question...

Winner by unanimous decision (96-93. 96-93, 97-93) "The Atomic Bull" Oliver McCall
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[DJgreen_72]

June 1990 News & Notes -

Hagler's press conference leaves fans with questions about the future...two major title rematches are announced...

June 25th 1990 - Brockton, Ma. - Speaking to reporters in his former hometown Brockton, Ma., IBF Super Middleweight champion Marvelous Marvin Hagler addressed his future in boxing ...

"When I walked away from boxing in 1987 two things really frustrated me. One I can't do anything about..it takes two to tango if you know what I mean...but the other was that after 7 years as champion I was retiring without a title. Well, I took care of that and now...well, I don't know. I'm 36 years old and I'm going to be honest, I hurt worse than I ever have after my last fight. I have 60 days to inform the IBF if I am gonna defend my title, and right now, I'm going to go back to Italy and do some soul searching and make my decision. Am I going to fight again? Well, there's probably a few fights that I'd be tempted to take, but if I have fought my last fight then I want to thank the 3 Rivers Fight Club for helping me in this comeback...my family for supporting me...Lindell Holmes for giving me the most challenging fight of my career...and mostly the fans who followed me every step of the way 'cause without them I wouldn't have been able to do it..."

Hagler walked away from the podium upbeat, but refusing to answer questions from reporters.


...Hagler sounded like a man set for retirement at his press conference, but he didn't rule out one more fight...

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...WBC Heavyweight champion Donovan "Razor" Ruddock...

As expected, the Evander Holyfield/Razor Ruddock rematch for the WBC Heavyweight title was announced. The bout will be held September 15th at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas. Ruddock won their first fight in May in dramatic fashion via a 7th round TKO stoppage. Many are considering this a "must win" fight for Holyfield if the former undisputed Cruiserweight champion ever hopes to fight for the unified Heavyweight title now held by Mike Tyson.


...Evander Holyfield is focused on his September rematch with Razor Ruddock...

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...IBF Junior Middleweight champion Gianfranco Rosi...

After the controversial stoppage in the May 10th title bout between IBF champion Gianfranco Rosi and John "The Beast" Mugabi, the IBF has ordered a rematch. Both fighters have agreed to the fight, which will be held in late August, but the location has yet to be announced.

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[jayhawk1106]

To Hagler: "One more fight! One more fight!" lol

[DJgreen_72]

Originally Posted by jayhawk1106

To Hagler: "One more fight! One more fight!" lol

Maybe, if we can coax the right opponent into the ring

[DJgreen_72]

7-21-90
Madison Square Garden
New York, NY.


Nearly 21,000 fight fans packed into the "World's Most Famous Arena" for a Saturday night of boxing headlined by Hector "Macho" Camacho defending the WBO Light Wetlerweight title against Pernell "Sweet Pea" Whitaker. The featured bout saw "Terrible" Terry Norris defend his WBC Junior Middleweight title against Rene Jacquot with a dominating 6th round KO. Rising Middleweight star Roy Jones Jr. won by 1st round KO over club fighter Ross Smith. Jones, one of the most talked about young fighters in any division, moved to 9-0 for his career, all by KO. Only one 3RFC fighter was on the undercard as "Smokin" Bert Cooper took on Joe Hipp.


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"Smokin" Bert Cooper (25-3/22KO)
vs
Joe "The Boss" Hipp (14-1/8KO)
10 rounds - Heavyweights


Hipp, the 6'1" 230 pd pride of Browning, Mt., came into this fight as an unknown quantity having run off a series of wins against low level competition. His only loss came in his second pro fight, when the ringside doctor stopped him due to a broken jaw. Meanwhile, Cooper was riding high having beaten Bobby Czyz in January and destroying "Big" Art Tucker in March.

Both fighters were known for their aggressive fan pleasing style and they did not disappoint. It was a war from the opening bell. The two could of fought in a phone booth and still had room to spare. Halfway into the first round, Hipp landed a 3 punch combo that dropped Cooper to the canvas! It was only a flash knockdown as Cooper was up at 3. By the end of the rounnd Cooper had shaken off the knockdown and was battling back, but the 10-8 round put Hipp in the driver's seat to start the bout.

Rounds 2 & 3 were close, as Hipp tried in vain to stay outside while Cooper worked his way inside and focused on attacking the body. While rounds 2 & 3 were close, round 4 was all "Smokin" Bert Cooper. He stunned Hipp early in the round with an overhand right to the chin and kept coming. Hipp was battered through out the round but never was taken off his feet, but the momentum seemed to be shifting to Cooper. Hipp was still hurt coming into the 5th round and Cooper pressed the advantage. He chased the bigger man around, foucusing mostly in the body but mixing in just enough head shots to keep Hipp off balance. Hipp lost the 5th round and in the sixth a heavy right uppercut from Cooper started some major swelling around his left eye. The 6th was another round in the bank for Cooper, who had shaken off the 1st round knock down and was taking over the fight.

Unfortunately for Cooper, he had expended alot of energy over the middle rounds and despite the swelling around his left eye, Hipp was never seriously hurt. The fatigue showed as Hipp took back control of the fight starting in the 7th. He kept Cooper at bay with the jab and moved in for heavy power shots at will. Cooper fought back as best he could but Hipp had the advantage in round 7. While the 7th was close, the 8th was fairly one sided. Cooper was landing less and less and getting tagged more and more by Hipp. While both men were landing flurries that brought roars of approval from the sold out Madison Square Garden crowd, it was clear that Hipp took the 8th and was most likely ahead on the scorecards.

The 9th saw Hipp not only continue to score at will, but a nasty cut was opened over the left eye of Cooper. Bleeding badly, the referee stopped the bout to allow the ringside doctor to check the cut. The fight was allowed to continue but Cooper was on the defensive trying to protect the cut and lost another round. Into the 10th and Cooper, with his cut closed by his corner, went all out for the KO he felt he needed to win. A right uppercut from Hipp :58 seconds into the round ended Cooper's hopes. He was knocked to the ground and while he beat the count he was clearly out of it. Less than a minute later Hipp ended it for good with a hard combination that sent Copper sprawling backwards to the canvas and gave Joe Hipp an impressive 10th round KO victory.

Winner by 10th round KO, Joe Hipp!
************************************


...And on to the main event...


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Pernell "Sweet Pea" Whitaker (20-1/12KO)
vs
Hector "Macho" Camacho (36-0/16) (C)
12 rounds for the WBO Light Welterweight championship



...WBA & IBF Lightweight champion Pernell Whitaker..

They say styles makes fights, and sometimes that's not a good thing. While their were a few fireworks in the fight, a match up between two southpaw, defense first style fighters turned into a sloppy, slow paced affair...

Round 1 - Camacho and Whitaker had been involved in a war of words durig the build up to the fight and it continued through the weigh in and to the pre-fight instructions. Referee Randy Nuemann had to warn both fighters about "dirty tactics" and threatened to not even start the fight if they didn't touch gloves before the opening bell. Once the fight was underway, Camacho went straight after Whitaker and found out quickly that "Sweet Pea" was much faster than he had anticipated. Whitaker avoided his punches easily in the opening round and nailed him with counter punches non-stop. The sold out crowd sat stunned as the supremely talented Camacho was made to look like an amatuer in the 1st round.

Round 2 - Camacho slowed the pace and was more cautious after the opening round debacle. He managed to catch Whitaker a few times with hooks and crosses but they were awkward and did little damage. Whitaker was landing the crisper, cleaner punches and easily took the slow paced round.

Round 3 - More of the same as Pernell Whitaker stayed outside and taunted Camacho for most of the round...and fight. Whenever Camacho went on the offensive he was rewarded with stinging counters by Whitaker. Another slow round, and another round in the bank for Whitaker.

Round 4 - For the first 2:00 of the 4th the round looked like a replay of the last two. Finally, Camacho managed to force Whitaker onto the ropes and unloaded a flurry of punches. A pair of hooks connected and while they may not have hurt Whitaker, they brought a roar from the crowd and may have allowed Camacho to steal the round...it would be his first of the night.

Round 5 - Camacho gained some confidence late in the 4th and carried that into the 5th. Too bad for him confidence does not equal quickness. Again Camacho tried to open up on Whitaker. "Sweet Pea's" defense was too good however, and Camacho was chasing a shadow around the ring. Whitaker danced and dodged and when he had Camacho sufficiently confused and frustrated he unloaded with hard counters to the head of the "Macho Man." As the bell rang to end the round Whitaker threw both hands in the air to taunt Camacho. The move brought boos from the crowd but they knew as well as Whitaker did that he was dominating the fight and putting on a boxing clinic.

Round 6 - The crowd's response at the end of the 5th seemed to anger Whitaker who for the first time in the bout took the fight to Camacho. He was the aggressor landing hard hooks and crosses that staggered Camacho. Camacho, one of the better defensive fighters in boxing, had no answers and was pummeled in this one sided round.

Round 7 - Whitaker seemed to take his foot off the pedal in the 7th, going back into his defensive shell. This gave Camacho the chance to possibly steal a round with a late flurry in a round that saw little action.

Round 8 - Whitaker seemed to take it personal after possibly losing the 7th and went back on the attack in the 8th. He rocked Camacho with an uppercut early and staggered him midway in the round with combination that almost scored a knock down. Camacho survived the round but still had no answers for Whitaker's speed and skill.


Round 9 - Camacho was embarrassed in previous rounds, but in the 9th he was hurt. Whitaker pinned him on the ropes and unloaded with a furious series of punches. Referee Nuemann seemed close to stopping the fight, but Camacho managed to fight his way off the ropes and survive the round, but he was way behind on the cards.


Round 10 - For a few moments in the 10th, Whitaker looked a bit winded and Camacho took advantage. He managed to catch "Sweet Pea" with a pair of heavy left hooks and a straight right that scored with the judges. Whitaker countered with some offense of his own late in the round, but Camacho had the upperhand in the 10th.

Round 11 - Camacho's flurry in the 10th would be the high point of the night, as Whitaker took back control in the 11th. His speed, defense and counter skills were to much for Hactor Camacho and he cruised to another lopsided round.

Round 12 - Camacho gave an effort early in the 12th to score a knock out but it was not to be. He had been out worked and out classed all night and had nothing left. Whitaker was again the defensive wizard but controlled the final round with his counter punching skills.

Michael Buffer read off the final scores but there was little intrigue...

117-112...

116-114...

117-112...

All for the winner and NEEEEW WBO Light Welterweight champion...Pernell "Sweet Pea" Whitaker!
************************************

[DJgreen_72]

July 1990 news and notes...

Tyson vs Damiani set for August 26th outdoors in Germany...Mugabi to fight on Tyson undercard...Whitaker calls out Chavez...3 Rivers Fight Club sign star Soviet boxer



...Waldstadion in Frankfurt, FRG...


Mike Tyson will defend the IBF, WBA & WBO World Heavyweight titles on Saturday August 25th against undefeated Italian Heavyweight Francesco Damiani. The fight has garnered minimal interest in the United States, Tyson is a 25-1 favorite, but has created some buzz around Europe where there are hopes of the first European champion since Ingemar Johansson defeated Floyd Patterson in 1959. To capitalize on the overseas interest, Tyson and 3RFC president Jason David Green have agreed to hold the fight at Waldstadion in Frankfurt, West Germany. The stadium can hold upwards of 49,000 spectators. The fight will be shown live through out much of Europe and on tape delay in the US on HBO.


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..."The Beast" looks to avenge his controversial loss...

Added to the Tyson/Damiani card as the featured bout is the return bout between IBF Junior Middleweight champion Gianfranco Rosi and challenger John Mugabi. Rosi won via 8th round TKO in their first fight, a stoppage some say was premature.


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...Biggest fight of 1991?...

Just minutes after his one-sided win over Hector "Macho" Camacho, Pernell "Sweet Pea" Whitaker called out undefeated Julio Cesar Chavez during the post-fight interview. Chavez, considered by many the best pound for pound fighter in the world, is coming off a last second stoppage of Meldrick Taylor. After insulting the Mexican fighter in the post-fight interview, "Sweet Pea" continued his ranting in an interview to be published in the August issue of Ring magazine...

Whitaker: "..he know's he only got the stoppage over Taylor because of his name. He's a media creation...a paper champion who doesn't have the guts to fight me. I'll fight him at Lightweight, Junior Welterweight, catchweight whaever he wants...h*ll I'll go to Mexico City right now to whoop his ***. But it probably won't happen even though the fans want to see it...he's a coward..."


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...unknown but talented Russian Cruiserweight Sergei Kobozev will fight for the 3RFC once his legal status is settled...

3 Rivers Fight Club made headlines announcing they have signed Russian amatuer champion and former Red Army Captain Sergei Kobozev. The 26 year old Kobozev won numerous amatuer titles in the Soviet Union and had a pair of pro fights before fleeing from a tour of Romania to Yugoslavia, then to Italy and finally to New York City. He has been granted temporary political asylum and has applied for US citizenship. He has an agreement to fight for the 3 Rivers Fight Club but his legal status will prevent him from fighting for several months. Kobozev issued a brief statement (through an interpretor)...

...I love Russia..I love the people, it's my home but I don't love the Soviet system. I am happy to be in America and look forward to winning a world championship...and taking it back to a free Russia to defend it..."


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In other news...

Newly crowned USBA Heavyweight titleist Alex "The Destroyer" Stewart will make his first defense in his native Jamaica in September against Alex Garcia (17-1/13KO).

[DJgreen_72]

08-25-1990
Waldstadion
Frankfurt an Main, FRG


Just over 48,000 people packed into a sold out Waldstadion for the Mike Tyson/Francesco Damaini World Heavyweight title fight. Problems with the lighting rig forced the promoters and stadium officials to move the fight card to the afternoon. An overnight thunderstorm followed by unseasonably warm temperatures led the stadium to be covered with a lingering haze as the blazing sun burned off the dampness off the stadium. The haze hung in the air up until the first prelims began near 1:00 pm local time. The main excitement of course was for the main event, but the Mugabi vs Rosi rematch was also heavily anticipated. The undercard featured mostly German fighters including a thrilling 12th round TKO victory by Graciano Rocchigiani over Thulane Malinga in a WBO Super Middleweight title fight and top Light Heavyweight prospect Henry Maske picking up a win in only his 3rd pro fight. Only one 3RFC fighter on the undercard...


LW Tracy Spann picked up a win over Belgian club fighter Frederick Wiuff. After a feeling out round in the 1st, Spann went to work on Wiuff punishing him until the referee stopped the fight late in the 4th giving Spann a 4th round TKO, and a 24-1(18) record.



...Germany doesn't have the greatest luck with Zeppelins, so they called in the Goodyear Blimp for ariel shots of the sold out Waldstadion...


******************************************
John "The Beast" Mugabi (33-4/31KO)
vs
Gianfranco Rosi (48-3/16KO) (C)
12 rounds for the IBF Junior Middleweight championship



The thrilling May bout between these two created a great deal of controversy. Mugabi, ahead on all 3 scorecards, believed he was stopped early while Rosi felt he was unfairly forced into an immediate rematch. Both men were respectful in pre-fight interviews, but their was no doubt both had something to prove going into the fight in Germany. Respected veteran referee Arthur Mercante (Sr.) was brought in to officiate the fight...

Round 1 - Despite the intensity of both fighters, the bout started slow. Both men had been down in the first fight, and they spent much of the first round staying outside, working the jab and looking for an opening. Mugabi scored midway through the round with a hard right cross. Rosi responded with a head snapping uppercut. Mugabi may have stole the round with a hard flurry of punches seconds before the bell rang to end the 1st.


Round 2 - Rosi may have been hurt more than thought by Mugabi's flurry at the end of the 1st. He stayed on the defensive throughout round 2. His counters were few and far between. While he didn't score many power punches, Mugabi easily won round 2 by outworking and outlanding the champ.

Round 3 - Round 2 started off as more of the same until just before the 1:00 minute mark. Rosi uncorked a wild left hook that caught Mugabi on the temple. He staggered and fell backwards to the mat. It was only a "flash" knockdown as Mugabi was up at the count of 3, but it brought the massive crowd to it's feet. Rosi, perhaps urged on by the roaring crowd, went on the offense for the first time in the fight. Mugabi covered up and absorbed the best Rosi had to offer and by the end of the round was firing back his own heavy shots. The bell ended with the two trading hooks in the center of the ring. The crowd was deafening and referee Arthur Mercante had to jump in to seperate the two as they kept punching after the bell.

Round 4 - Mugabi came out in the 4th looking to brawl but Rosi had other ideas, again adopting a frustrating defensive style. He kept Mugabi at bay for the first half of the round with a long ranging jab. Midway into the round however, Mugabi fought his way inside and stunned Rosi with a heavy combination downstairs. The body shots hurt Rosi who retreated to the ropes. Mugabi moved in and the two fought the last minute of the round along the ropes. Mugabi may not of been able to knockdown the champ, but he had the clear advantage in the 4th.

Round 5 - Mugabi came out with bad intentions in the 5th. He walked through Rosi's defense and stunned him early in the round with a sneaky right uppercut. He forced Rosi into the corner and at 1:27 landed a murderous right hook to the face of Rosi. The ropes kept Rosi from being knocked down but a huge gash was opened just under his left eye! Moments later Mercante stepped in and called time, motioning for the ringside doctor to take a look at the cut. The blood wasn't in the eyes of Rosi, but the cut was very, very deep. The doctor allowed the fight to resume and when it did, Mugabi went after Rosi like a hungry lion after wounded prey. An uppercut wobbled the legs of Rosi and a short lead left hook opened a cut just outside the right eye of Rosi. Mugabi poured it on and the cut under Rosi's left eye was now gushing. Finally at 1:57 of the 5th round, Authur Mercante jumped in and waived off the fight. Rosi was hurt but still fighting but his face was an oozing bloody mess. Rosi protested as Mercante didn't even check with the ringside doctor before the stoppage but it didn't matter, John "The Beast" Mugabi celebrated...He was the new IBF Junior Middleweight champion!


...A bloodied Gianfranco Rosi tries in vain to fend off a determined John "The Beast" Mugabi in the 5th round...

Winner by 5th round TKO and the NEW IBF Junior Middleweight champion...John "The Beast" Mugabi!
******************************************

...and now for the main event...


******************************************
"Iron" Mike Tyson (39-0/35KO) (C)
vs
Francesco Damaini (25-0/21)
12 rounds for the IBF, WBA & WBO Heavyweight championship


Despite the long odds Vegas gave Damaini, there was a growing number of people, mostly in Europe, that believed he had a shot at the upset. Once the two fighters stood across from one another that looked less and less likely. Although Damaini was the taller and heavier fighter, he could best be described as "blocky" or "gangly". With his trunks cinched up high he looked almost comical standing next to the chiseled and intense Tyson who was introduced at 212 1/2 pounds. Looks can be decieving...sometimes...

Round 1 - The mismatch was obvious from the opening bell. Tyson laid into the 6'3" Italian with almost no fear of Damaini's counter punches. He dominated the first round, landing dozens of power shots compared to only a few jabs from Damaini.

Round 2 - Almost a repeat of the 1st as Tyson methodically stalked Damaini. Again Tyson landed at will while Damaini could do little more than clinch and hold to prevent being KO'ed.


...Tyson goes to work in the 2nd...

Round 3 - By the end of the 3rd, the referee was close to stopping the fight. Damaini was doing nothing but absorbing a beating from the champ. The round ended with Damaini covering up on the ropes and Tyson wailing away...only the bell saved Damaini from being knocked out.

Round 4 - Damaini finally started putting up a fight in the 4th round. He landed a lead left hook followed by a right cross that momentarily hurt Tyson midway through the round. Tyson shook it off and went back to work, out punching the challenger for the rest of the round. A much closer round that gave the fans some hope that they could witness a historic upset.

Round 5 - Damaini was begining to find the range with his jab and his reach advantage was starting to give Tyson some problems. Tyson managed to slip inside the jab eventually and score on the inside. Damaini landed a counter uppercut and decided to trade power shots with Tyson. While he managed to make the round close, Damaini was clearly hurt by Tyson late in the round and looked badly fatigued as the 5th round came to a close.



Round 6 - Tyson's vastly superior power was taking it's toll and early in the 6th he landed an uppercut that snapped Damaini's head back and sent him stumbling into the ropes. Tyson unloaded as the lumbering Italian could do nothing but cover up. Somehow he made it through the round, but Damaini was taking a beating here in Germany.

Round 7 - Damaini did his best to clinch and hold but Tyson was undetered and near the 2:00 mark of the 7th he landed a vicious left hook that was the beginning of the end for Damaini. With the challenger nearly out on his feet Tyson unloaded some of the hardest punches of the night. Near the end of the round Damaini absorbed a right uppercut, staggered backwards and turned his back on Tyson with his hands up around his ears. Tyson was about to tear into the retreating Damaini when the referee jumped in and waived off the fight. Tyson had won every round on all three cards and scored a one sided 7th round TKO victory!

Winner by 7th round TKO and STILL IBF, WBA & WBO Heavyweight champion, Mike Tyson!
******************************************

[DJgreen_72]

August & September 1990 news & notes -

Redemption for Holyfield...two retirements announced...Whitaker's next opponent revealed...

*************************************

Evander "Real Deal" Holyfield stops Ruddock in rematch, regains the WBC Heavyweight crown


...Holyfield drops Ruddock in the 4th...

September 16th - Evander Holyfield avenged the only loss of his career last night with a 10th round KO of Donovan "Razor" Ruddock in Las Vegas. Like their first bout in May, the Holyfield vs Ruddock rematch was a slugfest from the opening bell. Unlike the first bout, Holyfield was dominate. He dropped Ruddock in the 4th and then, already well ahead on the scorecards, stopped him for good with a 10th round KO. Holyfield's record moves to 24-1(20) and speculation again begins about the possible unification bout between Holyfield and Tyson.


...Holyfield celebrates with trainer Lou Duva...

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The boxing world clamors for a Tyson vs Holyfield title match, but the world may have to wait a little longer. "Iron" Mike Tyson stated after his win over Francesco Damaini that he will defend his titles in early December, and it will most likely be against the WBA & IBF #1 ranked contender, "Dynamite" Michael Dokes (42-2-2/27KO). That leaves Holyfield without a challenger, although rumors are that Holyfield may defend against Tyson's 3RFC stablemate Alex "The Destroyer" Stewart. Assuming both men win their next fight, and the WBC doesn't stand in the way of a "re-unification", Tyson vs Holyfield could become a reality in the Spring of 1991.


...Will Alex Stewart get a shot at Holyfield before Tyson?...


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..."The Truth" hurts...literally...

September 3rd - Carl "The Truth" Williams announced his retirement during a brief interview today. Williams, who lost to Mike Tyson last June, has fought only once since, a disappointing draw against journeyman Mark Wills. Williams cited a lack of desire along with lingering injuries from the Tyson fight as the reasons for his retirement.

While the Williams announcement was not a suprise, another well known Heavyweight held a press conference to announce his shocking retirement...


..."Gentleman" Gerry Cooney walks away from boxing after a 13 year career...

September 10th - Gerry Cooney announced his retirement from boxing at a press conference in New York City. Cooney, who is coming off a loss to Oliver McCall, cited his age as the primary reason for his retirement, although he confirmed rumors he had accepted an acting role. Cooney's career record ends at 32-3(27)...

Cooney: "I love boxing but I just don't have it anymore...I can't get it done so I am walking away now to pursue a career in a slightly less competetive profession...acting."

Beginning in December, Cooney will appear as the new love interest of Al Bundy's neighbor Marcy on the hit FOX comedy "Married... With Children."

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...Undefeated but unknown Dingaan Thobela earns a shot at Pernell Whitaker...

While Pernell "Sweet Pea" Whitaker seeks a bout with Julio Cesar Chavez, he has agreed to defend his WBA & IBF Lightweight titles against WBA #1 contender Dingaan Thobela (22-0-1/15KO). Known as the "Rose of Soweto", Thobela is a South African fighter with impressive skills but untested against quality opposition. The fight will take place sometime in late November, and the opening line installed Whitaker as a 15-1 favorite.

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In other news - Quietly and without much fanfare, the IBF announced that they have granted Super Middleweight champion Marvelous Marvin Hagler a 30 day extension to decide if he will defend his belt or relinquish the title.

[bob_bask]

Holyfield put that one to bed. Marches on towards Tyson.

[DJgreen_72]

Originally Posted by bob_bask

Holyfield put that one to bed. Marches on towards Tyson.

Projected scenario:


Tyson vs Dokes for the IBF & WBA titles and Holyfield vs Stewart or Mercer for the WBC title late 1990 then Tyson (assuming he beats Dokes) vs Holyfield (assuming he wins as well) sometime in Spring 1991 to re-unify the Heavyweight titles

[DJgreen_72]

09-21-1990
Oceana Hotel
Kingston, Jamaica

A standing room only crowd of just over 970 people packed into the ballroom at the Oceana Hotel in Kingston for a chance to watch former 1984 Olympian Alex Stewart defend the USBA Heavyweight title. A pair of 3RFC fighters made the trip to Jamaica and fought on the undercard...


BW Abu Bakr Rakin faced off against Dominican fighter Julio Amezaga. The fight was a mismatch as Rakin dominated and won a lopsided unanimous decision, moving his record to 8-0(5).

JWW Mark Yates was also in action. "The Battler from Brisbane" faced an overmatched Vincente Velasquez in a 6 round bout. Yates dropped Velazqeuz twice in the 4th and cruised to an easy unanimous decision and a record of 6-0(3).

And now for the main event...

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Alex "The Destroyer" Stewart (24-1/22KO) (C)
vs
Alex Garcia (14-1/10/KO)
12 rounds for the USBA Heavyweight title

Garcia, nicknamed the "San Fernando Hammer", was a rangy fighter with decent power but no experience against top quality opponents. Despite swirling rumors that he was next in line to face Evander Holyfield for the WBC title, Stewart had a good camp and looked in top form to open the fight.


Garcia started the bout strong, pressuring Stewart and forcing him into an all out brawl. The first was an even round that saw both men throw power shots at a furious pace. A wicked uppercut from Garcia early in the second stunned Stewart and put him on the defensive for much of the round. Stewart fought back late but the round went to Garcia. By the end of the second, Stewart was being bothered by some moderate swelling around his right eye. Early in the third an accidental headbutt seemed to hurt Stewart and again forced him into a defensive shell for much of the round. Stewart was never in real danger of being knocked down, but he had fallen behind on the scorecards infront of a stunned crowd.

Stewart started to get back into the fight in the 4th. The pace slowed from the first three rounds and Stewart managed to fight his way inside and work the body of Garcia. While the fourth was a close round to score, the 5th was a one sided round for Stewart. Despite the swelling around his right eye, Stewart was crisp and accurate, hurting Garcia with a short right hook early in the round and keeping the pressure on him for the full 3:00.

By the end of the 5th Garcia was beginning to fatigue and the toll of Stewart's heavy hands was taking it's toll. The 6th was all Stewart as he worked inside against Garcia. The 7th was much closer as Garcia was able to land several effective counters, but Stewart's pressure was wearing him down.

Despite the now heavy swelling around Stewart's right eye, he was taking over the bout late. In the 8th & 9th he fought on the inside with little resistance from Garcia. Midway through the 10th Stewart landed a hard hook to the body that caused Garcia to drop to one knee and take an 8 count from the referee. Garcia got up and fought back but was dropped to the canvas again near the end of the round, this time by an uppercut. Garcia beat the count and luckily for him there was only a few seconds left in the round so he survived.


Now way behind on points, Garcia tried his best to make something happen but he had nothing left. The 11th was a closer round but in the 12th he was caught by a right hand counter that dropped him for the 3rd time in the fight. He beat the count and made it to the final bell, but the decision was never in doubt...


Winner by unanimous decision (117-109, 115-111, 117-109) and STILL USBA Heavyweight champion, Alex "The Destroyer" Stewart!
*****************************************

[DJgreen_72]

Just announced by the 3 Rivers Fight Club...




January 19th, 1991
Madison Square Garden
For the IBF Super Middleweight Title

Next up...Bert Cooper is back in action against James Pritchard and Dave "The Cobra" Anthony faces Willie Lee Monroe (nephew of Wille The Worm Monroe) for the USBA Middleweight title!

[DJgreen_72]

10-15-1990
Hammerstein Ballroom
New York, NY.


A packed house of 2,500 fight fans were on hand for a co-main event of "Smokin" Bert Cooper going up against James Pritchard in a 10 round Heavyweight bout and top Middleweight prospect Dave "The Cobra" Anthony challenging Willie Lee Monroe for the vacant USBA Middleweight title. Three other 3RFC fighters were in action on the undercard:


19 year old FW prospect Juan "La Mongasta" Nieto was in action in his 4th pro fight against professional opponent Ben Grant. Despite not being known as a power puncher, Nieto landed a devasting uppercut early in round 1 that dropped Grant and gave Nieto his first KO victory! Nieto moved to 4-0(1).

JWW Ricky Meyers picked a 2nd round KO victory against overmatched club fighter Nick Baird. Meyers saw his record move to 8-0(4).

JWW Jake "The Snake" Rodriguez was in action against Mexican born Jose Luis Baltazar 5-2(5). Despite Baltazar being a step up from "The Snake's" previous opponents, Rodriguez was a heavy favorite. Rodriguez got in trouble early, being hurt in the 1st and cut badly over the left eye in the 2nd. Baltazar took the 3rd round handily but Jake came on in the 4th, hurting Baltazar early and easily winning the round. Unfortunately for Rodriguez, his cut was opened, and worsened, early in the 5th and the bleeding was too bad, the referee called the fight on advise of the ringside doctor! A TKO loss was the first defeat of Jake Rodriguez's career and his record fell to 6-1-1(1).


************************************
Dave "The Cobra" Anthony (14-0/11KO)
vs
Willie Lee Monroe (16-1-1/12KO)
12 rounds for the vacant USBA Middleweight championship


Despite manager Jason David Green's desire to keep Anthony in the ring against lower level opponents for a few more fights, the oppurtunity to fight for a title, even a "stepping stone" title like the USBA, was too good to pass up. His opponent would be Willie Lee Monroe aka "The Little Worm. In a bit of irony, Willie Lee is the nephew of Willie "The Worm" Monroe, one of only three men to ever get a win against Anthony's stablemate Marvelous Marvin Hagler.

The fight was a mismatch from the opening bell. "The Cobra" was too quick for Monroe and landed at a nearly 2-1 pace over the course of the bout. On the occasion when Monroe could force his way inside and turn it into a brawl, Anthony's power was too much for Monroe. Willie Lee suffered some minor swelling around both eyes, and was dropped to the canvas by a hard right hook from Anthony in the 11th round. Monroe beat the count and finished the bout, but the knockdown put an exclamation point on an impressive win for the undefeated Anthony.

Winner by unanimous decision (120-108, 117-109, 120-108) and NEW USBA Middleweight champion...Dave "The Cobra" Anthony!
************************************


...Dave "The Cobra" Anthony (15-0/11) is the new USBA Middleweight champion...


************************************
"Smokin" Bert Cooper (25-4/22KO)
vs
James (22-4-2/18KO)
10 rounds Heavyweights


Cooper was coming off a KO loss in July against Joe Hipp and needed a win to get back on track. Pritchard was a solid journeyman whose biggest career "highlights" were a draw with Johnny DuPloy and win over Steve Zouski. Like Cooper, Pritchard spent most of his career at Cruiserweight and the two were matched up fairly evenly in height, weight and reach.

Cooper came on strong in round 1, dominating the first 3:00 of the fight. That changed in the second when a heavy right hook stunned Cooper and put Pritchard in command. Pritchard won the second and dominated the third, a round that Cooper was content to cover up and try and regain his wits.

Regain them he did as he came out firing in the 4th. Late in the round Cooper landed an uppercut that sent Pritchard stumbling back into the ropes. Pritchard was out on his feet and Cooper poured it on. After Pritchard absorbed several more heavy power punches from Cooper, the referee jumped in at the 2:36 mark to end the fight and saving the helpless Pritchard from taking any more abuse.

Winner by 4th round TKO, "Smokin" Bert Cooper!
************************************

[DJgreen_72]

October news & notes:

Tyson makes it official...Holyfield snubs Stewart...Chavez "not interested" in Whitaker...


..."Dynamite" Michael Dokes earns a shot at Tyson...

To the suprise of noone, "Iron" Mike Tyson has announced he will defend his Heavyweight titles against WBA & IBF #1 contender Michael Dokes December 8th in Atlantic City. Dokes (42-2-2/27KO), comes into the Tyson fight a winner in 5 straight bouts since a 10th round TKO loss to Evander Holyfield in March of 1989. Tyson opens as a 12-1 favorite.

*******************************************

...Olympian vs Olympian...Mercer vs Holyfield...

Despite persistent rumors that Evander Holyfield (24-1/20KO) would defend the WBC title against Tyson's 3RFC stablemate Alex Stewart, Holyfield suprised many by announcing 1988 Olympic gold medalist "Merciless" Ray Mercer (16-0/11) as his next opponent. Despite turning pro less than 2 years ago, Mercer is a former amatuer champion with above average power. The final date is TBD, but the fight will take place in January, most likely in Las Vegas.

3RFC president Jason David Green refused to answer questions on why the Alex Stewart/Evander Holyfield negotiations stalled, only to say he was "disappointed" the fight fell through.

*******************************************

...payback can be a *****...

In a controversial interview to be published in Ring magazine, WBC & IBF Junior Welterweight champion Julio Cesar Chavez answered Pernell Whitaker's recent challenge...

Chavez: "...yes, of course he is a great fighter and his day may come but right now, he's only fought once in the (140 pound) division. He has to prove he belongs and deserves a title shot before I agree to fight him..."

Many have speculated that promoter Don King is behind Chavez not even negotiating with Whitaker's management as payback for Heavyweight champion "Iron" Mike Tyson turning his back on King and signing with the 3 Rivers Fight Club. Chavez, 9-0 as a Junior Welterweight, denied the allegations but a Chavez vs Whitaker fight doesn't look to be on the horizon for 1991.
*******************************************

[DJgreen_72]

11-10-1990
The Scope
Norfolk, Va.

A standing room only crowd of over 11,000 packed in to see their hometown hero Pernell "Sweet Pea" Whitaker defend the IBF & WBA Lightweight titles. The undercard featured Roger Mayweather picking up a win over John Meekins and WBC Middleweight champion Herol Graham's thrilling 8th round KO victory over Julian Jackson. No other 3RFC fighters were on the bill...so it's straight to the main event.


******************************************
Pernell "Sweet Pea" Whitaker (21-1/12KO) (C)
vs
Dingaan Thobela (22-0-1/15KO)

Thobela came into the fight with a stellar record but no experience against top flight opponents. Whitaker spent most of his free time recently running down Julio Cesar Chavez in interviews, but trainer/manager Jason David Green assured everyone he had a great training camp.

From the opening bell it became apparent that Thobela was severely outclassed by Whitaker. "Sweet Pea" dominated the first 2 rounds, with the challenger barely landing as Whitaker danced and dodged his offense with ease. Whitaker's counter punching was crisp and effective as he built up an early lead on the score cards. In the 3rd, Thobela received a flicker of hope as referee Mills Lane deducted a point from Witaker for leaning on the neck, giving Thobela a 9-9 round!

Any chance of an upset was dashed in the 4th round. Whitaker came out on the offensive and battered the overmatched challenger. A crisp uppercut connected late in the round sent Thobela staggering back into the ropes and Whitaker pounced, unloading a series of sharp punches. A small cut was opened under Thobela's right eye while his left eye was beginning to swell. Finally, with just 0:47 left in the round, Mills Lane jumped and called a halt to slaughter, giving Whitaker an easy 4th round TKO and another title defense.

Winner by 4th round TKO & STILL IBF & WBA Lightweight champion...Pernell "Sweet Pea" Whitaker!

******************************************

[DJgreen_72]

I know Dingaan Thobela isn't exactly a "world-cass" opponent, but has and overall rating of 7, so he's no slouch either, but this fight was so one sided...

Maybe Chavez should be scared!

[DJgreen_72]

Sorry for the lack of progress, been working extra hours the past week...will be simming and recapping the upcoming heavyweight title bouts and the Hagler/Leonard rematch over the next few days

[DJgreen_72]

12-08-1990
Boardwalk Hall
Atlantic City, NJ.

A sold out crowd of over 15,000 packed in to see "Iron" Mike Tyson defend the Heavyweight title against "Dynamite" Michael Dokes. The co-main event featured Julio Cesar Chavez defending the IBF & WBC Junior Welterweight titles against unheralded Korean fighter Kyung-Duk Ahn. Only one 3RFC fighter on the undercard:


LW Tracy Spann was in his fourth bout since losing the WBO Lightweight title just over a year ago. And for the 4th straight fight, Spann scored a KO win over a lesser opponent, this time a 6th round KO over journeyman Isaac Giblet. Spann moved to 25-1(19) with the win.


Seated at ringside for the fight card, along with 3 River Fight Club owner Jason David Green, was Pernell "Sweet Pea" Whitaker. As Julio Cesar Chavez made his way to the ring for his title defense, Whitaker shouted insults and threats. Chavez would ignore Whitaker's taunts and go on to drop Ahn to the canvas a total of 7 times in his 11th round KO win, leading Whitaker to tell a ringside reporter:

"He fights bums like that 'cause he's too yellow to get in the ring with me."

******************************************
"Iron" Mike Tyson (40-0/36KO) (C)
vs
Michael Dokes (42-2-2/27KO)
12 rounds for the WBA, IBF, WBO & Ring Magazine Heavyweight titles


Round 1: Dokes managed to frustrate Tyson for much of the 1st, staying outside jabbing and holding whenever Tyson got near. He also resorted to low blows, which drew him a warning from referee Arthur Mercante Jr. midway throught the round. Late in the first, Tyson connected with a hard combination that stung Dokes. A very slow and even round.

Round 2 - Tyson's speed was too much as he began to slip the jab and score on the inside with heavy thudding body shots. A hard right uppercut late puncuated a one sided round for the champ.

Round 3 - More of the same as Tyson dominated. Dokes managed to survive but was hurt on several occasions as the champ looked to be trying to end his night early.

Round 4 - Dokes right eye was beginning to swell noticeably by the end of the third and even with the famed Eddie Aliano in his corner, little could be done. Dokes made the fourth a little more competitive, not by landing much, but by holding to keep Tyson from scoring. Another slow paced even round.

Round 5 - Trainer Kevin Rooney was in Tyson's face between rounds, clearly not impressed with Tyson's effort thus far...

Rooney: "That s*** ain't good enough Mike...that s*** ain't gonna get it done!"

Tyson responded by tearing into Dokes as the 5th round began. 1:44 into the round Tyson landed a hook to the body followed by an uppercut that landed flush on Dokes' chin and dropped "Dynamite" to the canvas! Dokes was up at 7 but was clearly hurt and it was all he could do to cover up and survive the round.

Round 6 - Dokes' right eye was becoming an issue and Tyson went right back on the attack early in the 6th round. Tyson was well ahead in the round when at 1:58 "Iron" Mike Tyson took an uppercut from Dokes in the chest that knocked the off balance Tyson falling to the canvas and landing in a seated postition!

(HBO Announcer) Jim Lampley: "...Dokes back pedals as Tyson comes forward...Tyson leans into an uppercut...Tyson's down! Iron Mike is down! Mike Tyson's been knocked down for the first time in his car----"

Before Lampley could even finish his sentence, Mike Tyson popped back up from knock down shaking his head. He tried to say it was a slip but referee Mercante was having none of it. He rightfully called it a knock down, the first of Tyson's career. Tyson seemed clear headed but Dokes had a renewed spring in his step at having put the seemingly unbeatable champ on the canvas.

Round 7 - Tyson came out for the 7th focused, more embarressed than hurt by the previous round's knock down. Tyson punished Dokes through out the round, with the challenger barely landing a single punch. Dokes survived the 7th, but by round's end his right eye was nearly closed and he was clearly fatigued.

Round 8 - Another one sided round in the 8th. Dokes was taking a terrible beating but somehow did enough to keep Mercante from stopping the fight. His right eye was getting even worse, and Tyson seemed to be getting stonger as the fight wore on.

Round 9 - As heroic as Dokes' effort was, the toll of Tyson's power was taking it's effect. Just over 1:00 minute into the 9th Dokes was dropped a second time, this time after a Tyson left hook. Dokes beat the count, only to be dropped again late in the round. Dokes again beat the count and finished the round but the end looked inevitable.

Round 10 - Few expected the fight to last this long. Tyson decided it was time to end it. A vicious uppercut nearly decapitated Dokes early in the round and sent him crashing to the mat. Somehow he again, for the 4th time tonight, willed himself back to his feet. Tyson moved and unloaded on the helpless challenger, battering him along the ropes until finally, at 1:47 of the 10th, Arthur Mercante jumped in and waved off the fight, giving "Iron" Mike Tyson a tougher than expected 10th round TKO victory!

Winner by 10th round TKO and STILL Heavyweight champion, "Iron" Mike Tyson!
******************************************


Tyson, during his post fight interview...

"Yeah man it was a slip not a knock down. Ya know he hit me and then I slipped..."

[DJgreen_72]

12-21-1990
Fairmont Royal York
Toronto, Canada

The last fight card of 1990 saw a standing room crowd of over 600 fight fans pack into the ballroom of the upscale Fairmont hotel in Toronto. The co-main events would be the North American debut of Cruiserweight Sergei Kobozev and Alex "The Destroyer" Stewart defending the USBA Heavyweight title against Canadian journeyman Gordon Racette. Only one other 3RFC fighter on the card:


JWW Mark Yates looked impressive with a 1st round KO against trial horse Roger Brown (11-13/4KO). "The Battler from Brisbane" moved to 7-0(4) with the win.

CW Sergei Kobozev made his 3 Rivers Fight Club debut. Perhaps a little overwhelmed and still communicating to his cornermen via interpretor, Kobozev looked sluggish early then settled down and took control against local club fighter Pete Chandler. Kobozev picked up the victory with a brutal 4th round KO, moving to 3-0(3) on his young career.

****************************************
Alex "The Destroyer" Stewart (25-1/22KO) (C)
vs
Gordon Racette (36-4/24KO)
12 rounds for the USBA Heavyweight title


Stewart came into the fight as a heavy favorite. Racette hadn't fought in just over a year, but was a tough exprerienced fighter from western Canada who had been in the ring with notables like Tony Tubbs, Scott Ledoux and Trevor Berbick.

Much to the suprise of everyone, Racette came out for the opening bell looking to stand toe to toe with Stewart and trade shots. Racette managed to steal the first two rounds of the fight, but Stewart's power advantage soon became apparent. By the end of the 3rd, Racette's right eye was beginning to close. Racette would remain competitive for the next few rounds, but he wouldn't win another after the second.

By the 5th Racette was beginning to fatigue. By the 6th his right eye was nearly closed. Stewart poured it on and dropped Racette to the canvas twice in the 7th round. The challenger managed to finish the round and survive the 8th as well, but it was over in the 9th. Early in the round Stewart dropped Racette with a thundering uppercut. Racette again beat the count but the referee stopped the fight moments later with Racette out on his feet taking a beating from Stewart. Alex Stewart retains the USBA title with a 9th round KO victory!

Winner by 9th round KO and STILL USBA Heavyweight champion, Alex "The Destroyer" Stewart!
****************************************

[DJgreen_72]

1990 Year in Review (part 1)


"Iron" Mike Tyson (41-0/37KO)
(Rooney/Williams)

WBA, IBF, WBO, Lineal & Ring Magazine Heavyweight Champion
1990 record - 3-0(3)
Prime - 13

...Dominated the Heavywieght division despite a "flash" knock down vs Michael Dokes...running out of challengers...could seriously challenge Marciano's record of 49-0...

Next opponent - winner of Holyfield vs Mercer



Pernell "Sweet Pea" Whitaker (22-1/13)
(Green/Williams)

WBA & IBF Lightweight champion...WBO Junior Welterweight champion
1990 record - 3-0(2)
Prime - 13(LW) / 12(JWW)

...Dismantled top rated challengers in Camacho & Rosario before an "easy" defense against Dingaan Thobela...maybe the most talented and most hated fighter thanks to his trash talking...continues to seek a big money fight against Julio Cesar Chavez...

Next opponent - TBD



Dave "The Cobra" Anthony (15-0/11)
(Green/Green)

USBA Middleweight champion
1990 record - 5-0(4)
Prime - 11

...made the step up in weight to 160 and in competiton with wins over Ralph Moncrief and Willie Lee Monroe...only 21 and perhaps a year or two away from challenging for a world title...has drawn comparisons to a young Marvin Hagler...

Next opponent - Lamar Parks



John "The Beast" Mugabi (34-4/32)
(Green/Green)

IBF Junior Middleweight champion
1990 record - 2-1(1)
Prime - 9

...a pair of exciting but controversial TKO bouts with Gianfranco Rosi highlighted Mugabi's year...struggles with conditioning but still a fearsome puncher at 154...if he gets by undefeated WBO JMW champ John David Jackson in January, a third and final bout with Rosi is likely...

Next opponent - John David Jackson



Marvelous Marvin Hagler (65-3-2/53)
(Green/Williams)

IBF Super Middleweight champion
1990 record - 2-0
Post Prime - 8

...capped off his comeback from a 2 year hiatus with a FOTY canidate against Lindell Holmes...has stated his next fight will be his last win, lose or draw...has become something of a mentor to Dave Anthony and Mike Tyson, could stay with the 3 Rivers Fight Club as a trainer...

Next Opponent - Sugar Ray Leonard