Audley Harrison: Ground Zero - Page 5

bob_bask · 07-26-2010, 08:42 AM

Last Minute Replacement

New Zealander Tone Fiso, (6-8-0) 4 KO's, has been confirmed as Audley Harrison's eighth professional opponent.

Fiso who in his last five contests (all losses), has found his weight fluctuate in that period from 241lbs to 324lbs. In his last outing against Roger Izonritei, he weighed in on fight night at 266¾lbs.

At 6'5" Fiso will be giving away little in the height department to his name opponent.

Whilst not as highly regarded as Ellis, Warren believes it will be a "worthy" test for Harrison to overcome.

bob_bask · 07-26-2010, 08:47 AM

WBC tells Lewis to face Tyson next

The World Boxing Council is ready to block Lennox Lewis' moves to defend his heavyweight titles against Chris Byrd instead of Mike Tyson.

Lewis' 6 April Las Vegas date with Tyson was scratched when the Nevada State Boxing Commission refused the American ex-champion a licence.

A bout with IBF challenger Byrd has been raised as a possibility for Lewis. The Tyson meeting would then be rescheduled for later in the year.

But WBC president Jose Sulaiman has told Lewis that he must make a mandatory defence against Tyson before taking his pick of opponents.

Sulaiman said of a Lewis-Byrd contest: "We just cannot allow this, because it would go against the WBC's board of governors."

"If Lennox Lewis does not fight and defeat Mike Tyson, the world will continue wondering. This is the fight the world wants to see, and even though we are outraged at what happened [at the New York press conference that ended in a brawl], if it is in April, May or June, the fight must be held. The people of the world want it."

bob_bask · 07-26-2010, 08:49 AM

Maloney: Tyson will floor Lewis

Lennox Lewis' former manager Frank Maloney reckons Washington will host his showdown with Mike Tyson - and Tyson will floor Lewis inside five rounds.

Maloney, who split from Britain's world heavyweight champion last year, feels the potential economic windfall for the city will ensure the fight is confirmed.

And Lewis' ex-boss believes the champion will take a pounding from Tyson in the early rounds of the proposed bout at the MCI Center.

"I believe Mike Tyson will stop Lennox Lewis and win. I feel Tyson will win within the first five rounds - although if Lennox gets past five rounds, he might have a chance. I'm convinced Tyson will win because of what I know of the two fighters - and the body language and the behaviour of the two fighters."

bob_bask · 07-26-2010, 09:23 AM

Harrison survives

Top prospect Audley Harrison survived a early scare to force a stoppage victory against late replacement Tone Fiso.

After a comfortable first round display from Harrison, one minute into the second Harrison was on the canvas for a count of four. A winged hook by Harrison left him exposed to a vicious uppercut from Fiso, which dropped him instantly.

Throughout the rest of the second Harrison was on his bicycle, backpedaling, seeing out the round to a chorus of boo's from the home fans.

In the third Harrison shot out of the corner, Steward it seemed had a few choice words. Harrison attacked, letting his hands go. Fiso struggled to find his target, while Harrison's jab continued to find it's target. The boo's from the previous round were forgotten as cheers and encouragement to end it rang out across the arena.

The fourth was much of the same, expect Fiso failed to land anything. Harrison's movement constantly confounded Fiso. At the start of the fifth, little changed, Fiso needed to dig deep: he lands a uppercut - charges Harrison into the corner, lands another uppercut - misses wildly with a hook and feels the power of Harrison's cross.

Fiso managed to regain his feet at the count of seven, the referee took one look at Fiso, and saw a man was exhausted, and vulnerable to real punishment. The fight was stopped.

Harrison record now stands at (8-0-0) 1 KO. After the fight, Harrison said:

"It was a tough fight. I have no excuses, I boxed great but my focus wasn't always there. I found it hard take him serious. I didn't know nothing about this guy until a week ago, but he caught him by surprise. But after the knock down he couldn't land anything on me. I feel embarrassed."

After the loss Fiso's record now reads 6 wins 9 losses and no draws.

bob_bask · 07-26-2010, 09:27 AM

Klitschko batters Botha

Ukraine's Vladimir Klitschko retained his WBO heavyweight title by stopping South African Frans Botha in the eighth round on Saturday.

The 25-year-old Klitschko was making his third defence of the title in front of 10,300 spectators.

His record now reads 37 victories, 35 inside the distance, and one defeat.

Botha, the former IBF belt holder, gave Klitscho some trouble in the early rounds with holding tactics, but began absorbing heavy punishment in the fifth.

The knockout came when Klitschko hit Botha with a straight left, several more rights and a short left uppercut.

"I wanted to pressure him, but it didn't work. He hit very hard. He moved very well for a big man - I wasn't expecting that," said Botha.

Klitscho's camp said their fighter will have his next camp in the United States as he tries to prove that he's the up-and-coming fighter in the division.

"I just want a fight soon, I don't want a long layoff," said the 25-year-old Klitscho. "Against Botha, I just had in mind how Lewis and Tyson did against him," he added.

Lennox Lewis destroyed Botha in two rounds, while Mike Tyson finished him off in the fifth.

bob_bask · 07-26-2010, 09:44 AM

Warren Announces Harrison Fight

Boxing promoter Frank Warren today announced the second opponent Audley Harrison will face on the undercard of the April 20, Conference Centre, Wembley, Martinez-Smith IBC Jr Welterweight title fight.

The unheralded opponent, Samson Po'uha, who comes to the table with a professional record of 20 wins, 4 losses and 1 draw. Stands 6'2" and a reach of 76", giving away 3" in height and a 7" reach.

Harrison who in contrast to his earlier professional contests, has not been in attendance at either press conferences announcing his upcoming fight. Rumours are circulating that Harrison and his trainer Emmanuel Steward are unhappy with Warren's matchmaking so far.

bob_bask · 07-26-2010, 09:54 AM

Williams Challenges Harrison

British and Commonwealth Heavyweight Champion Danny Williams (26-1-0) 22 KO's, feels it is time for Audley Harrison to step up and face him in the ring.

"Right now I don't have anything lined up. There's no contract signed for my next defense. I'm here. He's called me out, yet said he's not ready. I've won my Lonsdale belt outright, so Audley best hurry up, 'coz there's little incentive for me to stick around the domestic scene, I've gotta move up a level. I'd love a fight with Klitschko, which will give me a shot at a world title and raise my profile."

bob_bask · 07-26-2010, 10:02 AM

Lewis-Tyson to fight in Memphis

Lennox Lewis will defend his world heavyweight titles against Mike Tyson on 8 June in Memphis, Tennessee.

Having been given a Monday deadline to agree terms, the pair signed a contract to fight at Memphis' 20,000-seater Pyramid Arena.

"Lewis-Tyson is the matchup the whole world has been waiting for, I am confident I will cement my legacy," Lewis said in a statement.

Tyson countered: "On June 8, I guarantee I will knock Lewis out and regain my heavyweight championship."

The fight is expected to be the richest in boxing history, with both expected to earn at least $17.5m each.

Lewis is the current bookmakers' favourite at 4-9 while Tyson is the 13-8 underdog.

bob_bask · 07-26-2010, 10:19 AM

Nine out of Nine

Samson Po'uha is the latest opponent to fail in his bid to stop Audley Harrison's journey towards a world title shot. In only his ninth professional outing, Harrison displayed ring generalship in a high-tempo contest which saw both men throwing leather.

Harrison who forced the referee to step in and stop the contest for the second fight in a row, was given all four rounds on the scorecards in perhaps Harrison's most entertaining fight of his career to date.

Stood in the ring afterwards, Harrison covered several topics, notable were Danny Williams and Frank Warren.

On Danny Williams he went on to say, "Danny's got a big mouth. But nobody listens, unless he mentions my name. I want his titles, he's not good enough to be called British Heavyweight Champion with me around. I've achieved more in nine fights, than he has in twenty-seven. I've got three more fights with Frank left, if he can't get Danny's signature on a contract I'll be disappointed."

When asked about rumours that he and his trainer were unhappy with the choice of opponents, Harrison was reluctant to talk. "I signed a five fight deal with Frank, you'll have to speak to Frank about how he picks my opponents, I'm here to box and win. And I did my job tonight."

bob_bask · 07-26-2010, 10:33 AM

Harrison to meet Lewis

Audley Harrison (9-0-0) 2 KO's, will meet American Terrence Lewis (31-11-0) 22 KO's, in his next professional fight.

Promoter Frank Warren hit back at claims he has picked easy opponents for Harrison.

"Lewis is a seasoned pro. He's fought guys like Greg Page and Michael Moorer. Terrence Lewis is no easy fight. Only people with no idea come out with things like that."

Warren also confirmed that headlining the bill will be former WBO featherweight Champion Naseem Hamed against Manuel Calvo for the vacant IBO featherweight title at the Excel Arena, London May 18.

bob_bask · 07-26-2010, 10:46 AM

Harrison with Lewis

Heavyweight Champion Lennox Lewis and top English Heavyweight prospect Audley Harrison announced that Harrison will be on the undercard of Lewis-Tyson in Memphis.

Lewis said, "It's a pleasure to confirm that future Heavyweight Champion Audley Harrison will yet again be in action on the same bill as the Heavyweight Champion of the World, myself, Lennox Lewis."

In contrast to Harrison's behaviour with Frank Warren in the United Kingdom, he is sat side-by-side with Lewis at their Memphis conference.

Lewis continued, "I have put together two possible future champions, Audley Harrison and Denis Bakhtov."

When asked Harrison was eager to fill everybody in on Bakhtov.

"He's the WBC International Heavyweight Champion. Ten wins, two losses. Won his last six contests. Seven ko's."

Of course Harrison must first come through his contest with Terrence Lewis in London before the bright lights of Memphis and his first title shot await.

bob_bask · 07-26-2010, 11:59 PM

Tyson issues Lewis threat

Mike Tyson has declared his intention to "kill" Lennox Lewis when they meet in Memphis on 8 June.

'Iron Mike' was talking on the Hawaiian island of Maui where he is in training for his fight with IBF and WBC heavyweight champion Lewis.

He said: "My main objective is to be professional but to kill him. That's what it comes to. He should want to kill me because I want to kill him. But I still love him."

Tyson, whose problems in and out of the ring have derailed his career several times, claimed he cannot imagine Lewis defeating him.

"I can't foresee losing, I can't even conceive of losing, not in my sleep, nothing."

The infamously volatile Tyson maintained his composure during an hour-long session with reporters, even when quizzed about his often-controversial lifestyle.

"I'm not in a mood to be upset and go into a tirade," he said. "Maybe in a few weeks I will be."

Tyson, who plans to stay in Maui until 10 days before the fight, did, however, take exception to suggestions that the paradise island may not the best place to build up a rage against Lewis.

"How would you get ready for a fight?" he asked. "I've been uncomfortable all my life. This should be fun. The fight will be fun so why shouldn't this be fun?"

He added: "I've just got to get in proper preparation psychologically, be hungry and determined, but it's just a fight."

bob_bask · 07-27-2010, 12:18 AM

Harrison-Bakhtov next

Audley Harrison's career continued it's march onwards after he stopped American Terrence Lewis in six rounds at the Excel Arena in London.

The 30-year-old Harrison was fighting for the third time this year following previous victories over Samson Po'uha and Tone Fiso.

Harrison, who won Olympic gold in 2000, has now won all 10 of his 10 paid fights.

From the outset it was evident the gulf in class between the fighters as Harrison dicatated the terms of the bout. If not for Lewis' rally in the second round, despite being dropped for a seven count, which was arguable the most competitive round of the contest. The fight may well have been stopped earlier.

Defeated Terrence Lewis afterwards was gracious in defeat, "Ultimately, Audley's an Olympic champion and he's got something there."

Harrison, yet again talked about a potential match-up with British and Commonwealth Champion Danny Williams.

"I'm the only heavyweight in this country to have the chance to represent this country on the world scene. I'm ready to go, but first I want the British crown. It's all about the British title right now for me. I don't need Danny Williams, he needs me. He needs me to prove to people he deserves that title."

bob_bask · 07-27-2010, 12:31 AM

Hamed fails to impress

Former world champion Naseem Hamed was unconvincing as he earned a unanimous decision against Spain's Manuel Calvo in their IBO featherweight title fight.

After 12 dismal rounds, Hamed took the decision by scores of 120-110 and 119-109 (twice), but the negative reaction of the crowd said much for the level of his performance.

Hamed, beaten for the first time last April by Marco Antonia Barrera, was lethargic, lacklustre, lazy and some distance from looking like the world class fighter he once was.

Although a winner in terms of the judges' verdict, Hamed lost the backing of a crowd who gave him a tremendous ovation at the start of the fight

The crowd at the London Arena started booing Hamed at the end of round four and it continued until the end of the fight.

Some of the crowd left early, while others whistled as the uninspiring fight came to a close.

At the end of the 12 rounds the crowd again voiced their disapproval.

As Hamed was awarded the fight, the crowd chanted 'What a load of rubbish'.

Hamed's record improves to 36 wins, one defeat with 31 knockouts. Calvo suffered only his fifth loss in 39 fights, with 33 wins and one draw.

bob_bask · 07-27-2010, 12:38 AM

Lewis outclasses Tyson

Lennox Lewis recorded victory over Mike Tyson to retain his world heavyweight boxing crown in Memphis on Saturday.

The British fighter won their long-awaited title bout with a stoppage in round eight.

Lewis finished the contest two minutes and 25 seconds into the eighth with a withering right hook that put Tyson flat on his back.

"This completed my legacy," Lewis proclaimed immediately after his win. "I wanted to prove I was the best boxer in the world, on the planet. Nobody gets away from my jab."

Tyson could only manage occasional glimpses of the ferocious power that made him a boxing legend in the late 1980s and early '90s. Bereft of skill, strategy and speed, Tyson was forced to show that the one attribute he still has is his chin.

Tyson, condemned in many quarters for his behaviour in and out of the ring, was magnanimous in defeat.

"I have love and respect for Lennox," Tyson said. "He's a magnificent fighter - and I'd love for him to give me another shot."

Lewis paid tribute to Tyson's ability to withstand intense pressure for so long.

"Some of those punches I hit him with on the right-hand side, he took them like a man - I was shocked he was able to take them."

bob_bask · 07-27-2010, 12:41 AM

Lennox's future uncertain

Lennox Lewis refused to speculate on his boxing future despite Mike Tyson's request for a rematch after their Memphis clash.

Lewis was instead content to bask in the glory of his convincing defence of his WBC and IBF heavyweight titles with a eighth round stoppage.

"I'm going to take one day at a time," Lewis added. "Everyone asked me what I was going to do after this fight, but I just wanted to prove my point first. I'll definitely consider a rematch if it's what the people want, but anything is possible."

Tyson on the other hand, is desperate to rescue a ring reputation that has been in decline in recent years.

Out-boxed for most of the eight rounds, he was upbeat despite his defeat and showed his intention to keep boxing by asking Lewis to fight him again.

"I'm happy with my performance," Tyson said, "and the pay-day was excellent.
"If he'll be kind enough to do it again I'd appreciate one more fight. I've known Lennox for 15 years and we've always been friends - but in competition the better man wins and does everything he can."

bob_bask · 07-27-2010, 12:51 AM

Bakhtov Let Down

In a contest many will forget Audley Harrison claimed the WBC International title via a third round disqualification.

Harrison who had quickly established his dominance over his Russian opponent in the opening two rounds was left feeling upset over Bakhtov's continual low punches.

"This was a real opportunity to put on a spectacle, show my abilities to a truly worldwide audience, on the undercard of the most anticipated match-up in years. I'm disappointed. I knew I had him, he just wanted a way out of there."

bob_bask · 07-27-2010, 12:56 AM

Foreman rates Lewis as best ever

Former heavyweight champion George Foreman has claimed Lennox Lewis is the best heavyweight of all-time after beating Mike Tyson.

Before the Memphis clash Foreman claimed the Briton was the best heavyweight since Muhammad Ali.

"Lennox is beyond doubt the greatest heavyweight of all-time," Foreman said. "He is not second any more, he is there at the top of the tree. It reminded me of a young George Foreman and an elusive Muhammad Ali - everything you want in a fighter."

Lewis' ranking alongside the heavyweight greats was also backed up by another fight legend - 'Smoking' Joe Frazier.

"Lennox is right up there with George Foreman and Muhammad Ali and he has proved himself the best heavyweight out there," Frazier said.

Lewis' trainer Emanuel Steward has often claimed that his fighter is the finest heavyweight to step into the ring since Ali dominated the division in the 1960s and 70s.

"I have known for a long time now that Lennox is the best heavyweight since Ali and the world should now acknowledge that," he said.

bob_bask · 07-27-2010, 01:00 AM

Klitschko keeps WBO title

Wladimir Klitschko comfortably retained his WBO heavyweight title, stopping Ray Mercer with a technical knockout in the sixth round of their bout in Atlantic City.

The Ukrainian is now aiming for a fight with Lennox Lewis, who holds the more prestigious WBC and IBF crowns.

"I think I can prove myself with a fight versus Lewis or Holyfield or Tyson," the 26-year-old Klitschko said after his win at the Trump Taj Mahal Hotel and Casino.

Holding a 15-pound advantage, Klitschko had the 41-year-old Mercer in trouble from the start.

When the end came in the sixth, he did not fight back for more than a minute before referee Randy Newman stepped in and stopped it at the 1:08 mark.

The fight statistics revealed that Mercer, who appeared out of sorts throughout, threw just 10 power punches.

The victory puts Klitschko's record at 39-1 with 36 knockouts.

The 1996 Olympic champion has now stopped 14 of his last 15 opponents.

bob_bask · 07-27-2010, 01:03 AM

Ruiz retains crown

American John Ruiz retained his WBA heavyweight title in Las Vegas on Saturday after his opponent Kirk Johnson was disqualified.

It was Ruiz's second successful defence of the title he won from Evander Holyfield last year.

The Canadian, who was previously unbeaten, was stopped in the 10th round for repeated low blows.

The fight was stoppped at two minutes and 17 seconds into the round by referee Joe Cortez after Johnson's third low blow.

Ruiz was winning the fight on all the judges' cards despite having to take time to recover from the earlier low blows by Johnson.

The bout turned nasty in the fourth, when Johnson - for the second time in the fight - hit Ruiz below the belt with a hard left hook.

Ruiz went down on his knee, then, after resting briefly, indicated to the referee that he was ready to resume.

Ruiz then charged Johnson, sending both fighters into the ropes, where they appeared to exchange head butts. Cortez separated and warned them both.

Then in the eighth round Ruiz had to wait five minutes to resume after another Johnson low blow.

He recovered and had Johnson reeling late in the ninth round.

It was Ruiz's 38th win in 43 fights.

07-26-2010, 08:42 AM	#81
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Last Minute Replacement New Zealander Tone Fiso, (6-8-0) 4 KO's, has been confirmed as Audley Harrison's eighth professional opponent. Fiso who in his last five contests (all losses), has found his weight fluctuate in that period from 241lbs to 324lbs. In his last outing against Roger Izonritei, he weighed in on fight night at 266¾lbs. At 6'5" Fiso will be giving away little in the height department to his name opponent. Whilst not as highly regarded as Ellis, Warren believes it will be a "worthy" test for Harrison to overcome.

07-26-2010, 08:47 AM	#82
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	WBC tells Lewis to face Tyson next The World Boxing Council is ready to block Lennox Lewis' moves to defend his heavyweight titles against Chris Byrd instead of Mike Tyson. Lewis' 6 April Las Vegas date with Tyson was scratched when the Nevada State Boxing Commission refused the American ex-champion a licence. A bout with IBF challenger Byrd has been raised as a possibility for Lewis. The Tyson meeting would then be rescheduled for later in the year. But WBC president Jose Sulaiman has told Lewis that he must make a mandatory defence against Tyson before taking his pick of opponents. Sulaiman said of a Lewis-Byrd contest: "We just cannot allow this, because it would go against the WBC's board of governors." "If Lennox Lewis does not fight and defeat Mike Tyson, the world will continue wondering. This is the fight the world wants to see, and even though we are outraged at what happened [at the New York press conference that ended in a brawl], if it is in April, May or June, the fight must be held. The people of the world want it."

07-26-2010, 08:49 AM	#83
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Maloney: Tyson will floor Lewis Lennox Lewis' former manager Frank Maloney reckons Washington will host his showdown with Mike Tyson - and Tyson will floor Lewis inside five rounds. Maloney, who split from Britain's world heavyweight champion last year, feels the potential economic windfall for the city will ensure the fight is confirmed. And Lewis' ex-boss believes the champion will take a pounding from Tyson in the early rounds of the proposed bout at the MCI Center. "I believe Mike Tyson will stop Lennox Lewis and win. I feel Tyson will win within the first five rounds - although if Lennox gets past five rounds, he might have a chance. I'm convinced Tyson will win because of what I know of the two fighters - and the body language and the behaviour of the two fighters."

07-26-2010, 09:23 AM	#84
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Harrison survives Top prospect Audley Harrison survived a early scare to force a stoppage victory against late replacement Tone Fiso. After a comfortable first round display from Harrison, one minute into the second Harrison was on the canvas for a count of four. A winged hook by Harrison left him exposed to a vicious uppercut from Fiso, which dropped him instantly. Throughout the rest of the second Harrison was on his bicycle, backpedaling, seeing out the round to a chorus of boo's from the home fans. In the third Harrison shot out of the corner, Steward it seemed had a few choice words. Harrison attacked, letting his hands go. Fiso struggled to find his target, while Harrison's jab continued to find it's target. The boo's from the previous round were forgotten as cheers and encouragement to end it rang out across the arena. The fourth was much of the same, expect Fiso failed to land anything. Harrison's movement constantly confounded Fiso. At the start of the fifth, little changed, Fiso needed to dig deep: he lands a uppercut - charges Harrison into the corner, lands another uppercut - misses wildly with a hook and feels the power of Harrison's cross. Fiso managed to regain his feet at the count of seven, the referee took one look at Fiso, and saw a man was exhausted, and vulnerable to real punishment. The fight was stopped. Harrison record now stands at (8-0-0) 1 KO. After the fight, Harrison said: "It was a tough fight. I have no excuses, I boxed great but my focus wasn't always there. I found it hard take him serious. I didn't know nothing about this guy until a week ago, but he caught him by surprise. But after the knock down he couldn't land anything on me. I feel embarrassed." After the loss Fiso's record now reads 6 wins 9 losses and no draws.

07-26-2010, 09:27 AM	#85
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Klitschko batters Botha Ukraine's Vladimir Klitschko retained his WBO heavyweight title by stopping South African Frans Botha in the eighth round on Saturday. The 25-year-old Klitschko was making his third defence of the title in front of 10,300 spectators. His record now reads 37 victories, 35 inside the distance, and one defeat. Botha, the former IBF belt holder, gave Klitscho some trouble in the early rounds with holding tactics, but began absorbing heavy punishment in the fifth. The knockout came when Klitschko hit Botha with a straight left, several more rights and a short left uppercut. "I wanted to pressure him, but it didn't work. He hit very hard. He moved very well for a big man - I wasn't expecting that," said Botha. Klitscho's camp said their fighter will have his next camp in the United States as he tries to prove that he's the up-and-coming fighter in the division. "I just want a fight soon, I don't want a long layoff," said the 25-year-old Klitscho. "Against Botha, I just had in mind how Lewis and Tyson did against him," he added. Lennox Lewis destroyed Botha in two rounds, while Mike Tyson finished him off in the fifth.

07-26-2010, 09:44 AM	#86
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Warren Announces Harrison Fight Boxing promoter Frank Warren today announced the second opponent Audley Harrison will face on the undercard of the April 20, Conference Centre, Wembley, Martinez-Smith IBC Jr Welterweight title fight. The unheralded opponent, Samson Po'uha, who comes to the table with a professional record of 20 wins, 4 losses and 1 draw. Stands 6'2" and a reach of 76", giving away 3" in height and a 7" reach. Harrison who in contrast to his earlier professional contests, has not been in attendance at either press conferences announcing his upcoming fight. Rumours are circulating that Harrison and his trainer Emmanuel Steward are unhappy with Warren's matchmaking so far.

07-26-2010, 09:54 AM	#87
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Williams Challenges Harrison British and Commonwealth Heavyweight Champion Danny Williams (26-1-0) 22 KO's, feels it is time for Audley Harrison to step up and face him in the ring. "Right now I don't have anything lined up. There's no contract signed for my next defense. I'm here. He's called me out, yet said he's not ready. I've won my Lonsdale belt outright, so Audley best hurry up, 'coz there's little incentive for me to stick around the domestic scene, I've gotta move up a level. I'd love a fight with Klitschko, which will give me a shot at a world title and raise my profile."

07-26-2010, 10:02 AM	#88
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Lewis-Tyson to fight in Memphis Lennox Lewis will defend his world heavyweight titles against Mike Tyson on 8 June in Memphis, Tennessee. Having been given a Monday deadline to agree terms, the pair signed a contract to fight at Memphis' 20,000-seater Pyramid Arena. "Lewis-Tyson is the matchup the whole world has been waiting for, I am confident I will cement my legacy," Lewis said in a statement. Tyson countered: "On June 8, I guarantee I will knock Lewis out and regain my heavyweight championship." The fight is expected to be the richest in boxing history, with both expected to earn at least $17.5m each. Lewis is the current bookmakers' favourite at 4-9 while Tyson is the 13-8 underdog.

07-26-2010, 10:19 AM	#89
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Nine out of Nine Samson Po'uha is the latest opponent to fail in his bid to stop Audley Harrison's journey towards a world title shot. In only his ninth professional outing, Harrison displayed ring generalship in a high-tempo contest which saw both men throwing leather. Harrison who forced the referee to step in and stop the contest for the second fight in a row, was given all four rounds on the scorecards in perhaps Harrison's most entertaining fight of his career to date. Stood in the ring afterwards, Harrison covered several topics, notable were Danny Williams and Frank Warren. On Danny Williams he went on to say, "Danny's got a big mouth. But nobody listens, unless he mentions my name. I want his titles, he's not good enough to be called British Heavyweight Champion with me around. I've achieved more in nine fights, than he has in twenty-seven. I've got three more fights with Frank left, if he can't get Danny's signature on a contract I'll be disappointed." When asked about rumours that he and his trainer were unhappy with the choice of opponents, Harrison was reluctant to talk. "I signed a five fight deal with Frank, you'll have to speak to Frank about how he picks my opponents, I'm here to box and win. And I did my job tonight."

07-26-2010, 10:33 AM	#90
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Harrison to meet Lewis Audley Harrison (9-0-0) 2 KO's, will meet American Terrence Lewis (31-11-0) 22 KO's, in his next professional fight. Promoter Frank Warren hit back at claims he has picked easy opponents for Harrison. "Lewis is a seasoned pro. He's fought guys like Greg Page and Michael Moorer. Terrence Lewis is no easy fight. Only people with no idea come out with things like that." Warren also confirmed that headlining the bill will be former WBO featherweight Champion Naseem Hamed against Manuel Calvo for the vacant IBO featherweight title at the Excel Arena, London May 18.

07-26-2010, 10:46 AM	#91
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Harrison with Lewis Heavyweight Champion Lennox Lewis and top English Heavyweight prospect Audley Harrison announced that Harrison will be on the undercard of Lewis-Tyson in Memphis. Lewis said, "It's a pleasure to confirm that future Heavyweight Champion Audley Harrison will yet again be in action on the same bill as the Heavyweight Champion of the World, myself, Lennox Lewis." In contrast to Harrison's behaviour with Frank Warren in the United Kingdom, he is sat side-by-side with Lewis at their Memphis conference. Lewis continued, "I have put together two possible future champions, Audley Harrison and Denis Bakhtov." When asked Harrison was eager to fill everybody in on Bakhtov. "He's the WBC International Heavyweight Champion. Ten wins, two losses. Won his last six contests. Seven ko's." Of course Harrison must first come through his contest with Terrence Lewis in London before the bright lights of Memphis and his first title shot await.

07-26-2010, 11:59 PM	#92
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Tyson issues Lewis threat Mike Tyson has declared his intention to "kill" Lennox Lewis when they meet in Memphis on 8 June. 'Iron Mike' was talking on the Hawaiian island of Maui where he is in training for his fight with IBF and WBC heavyweight champion Lewis. He said: "My main objective is to be professional but to kill him. That's what it comes to. He should want to kill me because I want to kill him. But I still love him." Tyson, whose problems in and out of the ring have derailed his career several times, claimed he cannot imagine Lewis defeating him. "I can't foresee losing, I can't even conceive of losing, not in my sleep, nothing." The infamously volatile Tyson maintained his composure during an hour-long session with reporters, even when quizzed about his often-controversial lifestyle. "I'm not in a mood to be upset and go into a tirade," he said. "Maybe in a few weeks I will be." Tyson, who plans to stay in Maui until 10 days before the fight, did, however, take exception to suggestions that the paradise island may not the best place to build up a rage against Lewis. "How would you get ready for a fight?" he asked. "I've been uncomfortable all my life. This should be fun. The fight will be fun so why shouldn't this be fun?" He added: "I've just got to get in proper preparation psychologically, be hungry and determined, but it's just a fight."

07-27-2010, 12:18 AM	#93
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Harrison-Bakhtov next Audley Harrison's career continued it's march onwards after he stopped American Terrence Lewis in six rounds at the Excel Arena in London. The 30-year-old Harrison was fighting for the third time this year following previous victories over Samson Po'uha and Tone Fiso. Harrison, who won Olympic gold in 2000, has now won all 10 of his 10 paid fights. From the outset it was evident the gulf in class between the fighters as Harrison dicatated the terms of the bout. If not for Lewis' rally in the second round, despite being dropped for a seven count, which was arguable the most competitive round of the contest. The fight may well have been stopped earlier. Defeated Terrence Lewis afterwards was gracious in defeat, "Ultimately, Audley's an Olympic champion and he's got something there." Harrison, yet again talked about a potential match-up with British and Commonwealth Champion Danny Williams. "I'm the only heavyweight in this country to have the chance to represent this country on the world scene. I'm ready to go, but first I want the British crown. It's all about the British title right now for me. I don't need Danny Williams, he needs me. He needs me to prove to people he deserves that title."

07-27-2010, 12:31 AM	#94
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Hamed fails to impress Former world champion Naseem Hamed was unconvincing as he earned a unanimous decision against Spain's Manuel Calvo in their IBO featherweight title fight. After 12 dismal rounds, Hamed took the decision by scores of 120-110 and 119-109 (twice), but the negative reaction of the crowd said much for the level of his performance. Hamed, beaten for the first time last April by Marco Antonia Barrera, was lethargic, lacklustre, lazy and some distance from looking like the world class fighter he once was. Although a winner in terms of the judges' verdict, Hamed lost the backing of a crowd who gave him a tremendous ovation at the start of the fight The crowd at the London Arena started booing Hamed at the end of round four and it continued until the end of the fight. Some of the crowd left early, while others whistled as the uninspiring fight came to a close. At the end of the 12 rounds the crowd again voiced their disapproval. As Hamed was awarded the fight, the crowd chanted 'What a load of rubbish'. Hamed's record improves to 36 wins, one defeat with 31 knockouts. Calvo suffered only his fifth loss in 39 fights, with 33 wins and one draw.

07-27-2010, 12:38 AM	#95
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Lewis outclasses Tyson Lennox Lewis recorded victory over Mike Tyson to retain his world heavyweight boxing crown in Memphis on Saturday. The British fighter won their long-awaited title bout with a stoppage in round eight. Lewis finished the contest two minutes and 25 seconds into the eighth with a withering right hook that put Tyson flat on his back. "This completed my legacy," Lewis proclaimed immediately after his win. "I wanted to prove I was the best boxer in the world, on the planet. Nobody gets away from my jab." Tyson could only manage occasional glimpses of the ferocious power that made him a boxing legend in the late 1980s and early '90s. Bereft of skill, strategy and speed, Tyson was forced to show that the one attribute he still has is his chin. Tyson, condemned in many quarters for his behaviour in and out of the ring, was magnanimous in defeat. "I have love and respect for Lennox," Tyson said. "He's a magnificent fighter - and I'd love for him to give me another shot." Lewis paid tribute to Tyson's ability to withstand intense pressure for so long. "Some of those punches I hit him with on the right-hand side, he took them like a man - I was shocked he was able to take them."

07-27-2010, 12:41 AM	#96
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Lennox's future uncertain Lennox Lewis refused to speculate on his boxing future despite Mike Tyson's request for a rematch after their Memphis clash. Lewis was instead content to bask in the glory of his convincing defence of his WBC and IBF heavyweight titles with a eighth round stoppage. "I'm going to take one day at a time," Lewis added. "Everyone asked me what I was going to do after this fight, but I just wanted to prove my point first. I'll definitely consider a rematch if it's what the people want, but anything is possible." Tyson on the other hand, is desperate to rescue a ring reputation that has been in decline in recent years. Out-boxed for most of the eight rounds, he was upbeat despite his defeat and showed his intention to keep boxing by asking Lewis to fight him again. "I'm happy with my performance," Tyson said, "and the pay-day was excellent. "If he'll be kind enough to do it again I'd appreciate one more fight. I've known Lennox for 15 years and we've always been friends - but in competition the better man wins and does everything he can."

07-27-2010, 12:51 AM	#97
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Bakhtov Let Down In a contest many will forget Audley Harrison claimed the WBC International title via a third round disqualification. Harrison who had quickly established his dominance over his Russian opponent in the opening two rounds was left feeling upset over Bakhtov's continual low punches. "This was a real opportunity to put on a spectacle, show my abilities to a truly worldwide audience, on the undercard of the most anticipated match-up in years. I'm disappointed. I knew I had him, he just wanted a way out of there."

07-27-2010, 12:56 AM	#98
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Foreman rates Lewis as best ever Former heavyweight champion George Foreman has claimed Lennox Lewis is the best heavyweight of all-time after beating Mike Tyson. Before the Memphis clash Foreman claimed the Briton was the best heavyweight since Muhammad Ali. "Lennox is beyond doubt the greatest heavyweight of all-time," Foreman said. "He is not second any more, he is there at the top of the tree. It reminded me of a young George Foreman and an elusive Muhammad Ali - everything you want in a fighter." Lewis' ranking alongside the heavyweight greats was also backed up by another fight legend - 'Smoking' Joe Frazier. "Lennox is right up there with George Foreman and Muhammad Ali and he has proved himself the best heavyweight out there," Frazier said. Lewis' trainer Emanuel Steward has often claimed that his fighter is the finest heavyweight to step into the ring since Ali dominated the division in the 1960s and 70s. "I have known for a long time now that Lennox is the best heavyweight since Ali and the world should now acknowledge that," he said.

07-27-2010, 01:00 AM	#99
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Klitschko keeps WBO title Wladimir Klitschko comfortably retained his WBO heavyweight title, stopping Ray Mercer with a technical knockout in the sixth round of their bout in Atlantic City. The Ukrainian is now aiming for a fight with Lennox Lewis, who holds the more prestigious WBC and IBF crowns. "I think I can prove myself with a fight versus Lewis or Holyfield or Tyson," the 26-year-old Klitschko said after his win at the Trump Taj Mahal Hotel and Casino. Holding a 15-pound advantage, Klitschko had the 41-year-old Mercer in trouble from the start. When the end came in the sixth, he did not fight back for more than a minute before referee Randy Newman stepped in and stopped it at the 1:08 mark. The fight statistics revealed that Mercer, who appeared out of sorts throughout, threw just 10 power punches. The victory puts Klitschko's record at 39-1 with 36 knockouts. The 1996 Olympic champion has now stopped 14 of his last 15 opponents.

07-27-2010, 01:03 AM	#100
bob_bask Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3,387	Ruiz retains crown American John Ruiz retained his WBA heavyweight title in Las Vegas on Saturday after his opponent Kirk Johnson was disqualified. It was Ruiz's second successful defence of the title he won from Evander Holyfield last year. The Canadian, who was previously unbeaten, was stopped in the 10th round for repeated low blows. The fight was stoppped at two minutes and 17 seconds into the round by referee Joe Cortez after Johnson's third low blow. Ruiz was winning the fight on all the judges' cards despite having to take time to recover from the earlier low blows by Johnson. The bout turned nasty in the fourth, when Johnson - for the second time in the fight - hit Ruiz below the belt with a hard left hook. Ruiz went down on his knee, then, after resting briefly, indicated to the referee that he was ready to resume. Ruiz then charged Johnson, sending both fighters into the ropes, where they appeared to exchange head butts. Cortez separated and warned them both. Then in the eighth round Ruiz had to wait five minutes to resume after another Johnson low blow. He recovered and had Johnson reeling late in the ninth round. It was Ruiz's 38th win in 43 fights.