Heavyweight boxing has its eyes set on a potential rematch between Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois, with recent comments from fellow contender Zhilei Zhang adding fuel to the fire. In an interview with Seconds Out, Zhang firmly predicted that if a rematch occurs, Dubois will come out on top.

This follows Joshua’s knockout defeat at the hands of Dubois on September 21, where the former champion was stopped in the fifth round. For Joshua, who has long aimed to reclaim his world title for a third time, this loss was a significant setback in his career.

Since that stunning result, both Joshua and Dubois have been mentioned in discussions surrounding future high-profile bouts against names like Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk. However, attention now turns to a possible rematch between the two, which could have major implications for their careers.

Anthony Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has expressed Joshua’s willingness to take on Dubois again, signaling the former champion’s eagerness for redemption. But Zhang, a rising star in the heavyweight division, has reservations about how Joshua will perform in a second fight.

“I can’t really say I’m disappointed because, as a boxing fan myself, I look at it from a fan’s perspective. Joshua has been on top of the pyramid for years, and when you’re on top of the food chain, that definitely changes your mentality a bit,” Zhang said.

Zhang also questioned Joshua’s mental state following the loss to Dubois. “This defeat, I don’t know where it puts him mentally, but I think the rematch will be a worst-case scenario for Joshua,” Zhang added, pointing to the psychological toll it might take on the former champion.

As anticipation builds, the rematch would undoubtedly be a pivotal moment in the careers of both fighters. Joshua will be fighting to redeem his legacy, while Dubois sees another win as an opportunity to firmly establish himself among the heavyweight elite.

Boxing fans now eagerly await an official announcement, wondering how this rematch might shift the dynamics of the heavyweight division. With Zhang backing Dubois for a second victory, the potential rematch between Joshua and Dubois has become one of the most intriguing storylines in boxing.

Source: Interview with Seconds Out

#AnthonyJoshua #DanielDubois #ZhileiZhang #HeavyweightBoxing #BoxingNews #JoshuaVsDubois #Rematch

Dmitry Bivol’s team expressed frustration with the judges' scorecards after he lost a majority decision to Artur Beterbiev on Saturday night at Kingdom Arena in Saudi Arabia, a result that crowned Beterbiev as the undisputed light heavyweight champion.

The judges scored the bout 114-114, 115-113, and 116-112, with two in favor of Beterbiev.

In the post-fight press conference, Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, who represents Bivol (23-1, 12 KOs), shared his disappointment. When asked about comments by Top Rank executive Carl Moretti, who said it was a close fight but not a robbery, Hearn responded bluntly.

"I'm not throwing Carl Moretti under a bus, he’s my mate, he knew we won that fight," Hearn said. "I think he had it seven-five to us. I'm not saying it's a robbery, but I don't see how you can give Artur Beterbiev six rounds in that fight. I certainly don't see how you can give him seven."

Hearn went on to critique specific rounds, saying Bivol controlled much of the fight, despite Beterbiev finishing some rounds strongly. "Go back and watch the fight. Look at him [Bivol] taking it on the gloves. Always in control."

The fight left fans and analysts divided, with many calling for a rematch after the 33-year-old Bivol started strong, but the 39-year-old Beterbiev (21-0, 20 KOs) finished rounds powerfully, possibly swaying the judges.

Bivol's manager, Vadim Kornilov, directed his frustration at judge Pawel Kardyni, who scored the fight 116-112 in favor of Beterbiev.

"Pawel Kardyni, after he comes back from Chechnya, should be suspended," Kornilov said. "That’s my opinion. He’s always done well in previous fights, so whatever happened here, it's outrageous."

Kornilov’s reference to Chechnya drew attention, as Beterbiev is originally from the region, though he now trains in Canada. When asked to clarify, Kornilov confirmed that he deliberately mentioned Chechnya due to his frustrations with the judge's scoring.

“That was the idea,” Kornilov said, clarifying that he was not referring to Kardyni’s home country of Poland.

In a recent interview for The Stomping Ground, the boxer and current champion, Jai Opetaia,

Opetaia began the interview by commenting on the odds for the fight. “When I saw the odds for this fight, I want to say I was surprised, and I wasn’t surprised,” he said. The Australian boxer acknowledged that Jack Massey is a great fighter and a tough opponent.Referring to his performance in the ring, Jai Opetaia expressed his respect for Jack Massey.

“He is, brother, tough as nails. You know, he has dangerous power, and he’s a tough guy,” he commented. Despite the difficulty of the bout, the champion felt satisfied with his performance. “It was a good learning curve. You learn a lot from these fights, and I’m excited about the progress,” he explained.

The Australian boxer also reflected on his long journey to reach this point in his career. “I know we can do better. It has been a long journey to get to this ring, brother; this fight has been a rollercoaster,” he recalled. For Jai Opetaia, learning and progress are fundamental to his career. “It’s about learning and progress, so I’m excited about the next fight,” he concluded.

In the interview, Opetaia also highlighted the growth of boxing in Australia. “Australian boxing is growing enormously. There are so many great fighters coming out of our area and from New Zealand and the Pacific Islands,” he stated. The champion emphasized the importance of opening opportunities for other boxers. “I feel like it will really open doors for people from our area,” he said.Regarding his weight, Opetaia revealed that he made weight more easily for this fight.

“We probably made weight, probably the easiest I’ve done for this fight,” he mentioned. He felt comfortable in the cruiserweight division, although he also assured that he could move up to heavyweight whenever he wanted. “I know when I want to move up to heavyweight, I can also make weight,” he indicated.

On future fights, Jai Opetaia expressed interest in the bout taking place in Riyadh between Chris Billam-Smith and Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez. “Are you keeping an eye on the winner of that? I imagine you just want to get to a position where you have as many belts as possible,” the interviewer asked. Opetaia responded affirmatively, noting that his goal is unification of belts. “I’m just pursuing unification of belts, so I’m really chasing those progress fights,” he explained.Junto Nakatani retains WBC bantamweight title as Naoya Inoue pursuit continues

The champion also reflected on the underestimation of the cruiserweight division in boxing. “It’s funny because people always underestimate the cruiserweight division, and they certainly have in recent years,” he stated. He recalled Oleksandr Usyk’s impact on the division and how his success became more recognized after moving up to heavyweight.

Finally, Opetaia was reflective about his journey and the future. “What does all this mean to you? Can you summarize it?” he was asked. “I’m not sure yet. I feel like we still have a lot of hard work to do,” he replied. The champion emphasized the importance of continuing to work hard and not resting on his laurels. “We are seeing a light at the end of the tunnel; I don’t know what that light is yet, but we are not there yet,” he concluded.

Jai Opetaia continues to show his determination and ambition in boxing. With his focus on hard work and progress, the Australian champion is prepared to face new challenges in his career.

British super middleweight champion, Callum Simpson, believes that Ben Whittaker found ‘an easy way out’ of his light heavyweight fight with Liam Cameron in Riyadh on Saturday. 

Whittaker was in the midst of his most serious test as a professional when he and Cameron toppled backwards over the ropes and landed awkwardly on the ring apron.

After five intriguing rounds, the fight came to an abrupt halt with Whittaker unable to continue, citing a damaged right leg.

As the M.C announced a technical split draw, the Olympic silver medallist left the arena in a wheelchair.

Cameron – who today announced he had signed with Queensberry Promotions – had quickly turned Whittaker’s heavily hyped showcase into something much more interesting. Nobody was happy with the unsatisfactory outcome. 

Simpson, 15-0 (10 KOs), was just feet away from the action and didn’t need to pore over any slow motion, freeze frame replays to come to his own conclusion.

“Other than the first round, I had him losing the rest of the rounds,” he told TalkSport. “I think Liam did the right thing,  putting that pressure on him. He unravelled straight from he second round and I had Liam winning it. At the end of the round, for me, it looked like an easy way out.

“Both the fighters went over the ropes. Obviously, one of them went out injured. Or claiming he was injured. 

“For me, he was getting beat. He wasn’t having it all his own way. For some reason tonight, Whittaker looked quite slow. His sharpness wasn’t there. The Sky commentators can’t say it but I’ll say it; it really looked like he bottled it.”

Simpson has enjoyed a meteoric rise over the past 18 months. He was expertly guided through his apprenticeship on the small halls and has quickly become one of Sky Sports’ brightest hopes. In August, the 27-year-old attracted around 8,000 fans to Barnsley’s Oakwell Stadium for his British title fight with Zak Chelli and the successful event guaranteed that he will continue to to be manoeuvred and built into a major attraction. 

Earlier in the evening, Simpson voiced his frustration at interviewers constantly asking him about a future fight with Whittaker whilst refusing to mention his name to the man from Wolverhampton.

Simpson still has plenty of business to deal with at super middleweight and he isn’t the type to instigate a public spat but Whittaker’s performance certainly didn’t stoke any fears in the Yorkshireman.

“It’s not that I’m not a fan of him. Whenever I met him at first I was always polite and well mannered and he’s just rubbed me the wrong way I suppose,” Simpson said. “He’s very arrogant. For me, I always try and give time to everybody and be respectful but he’s the complete opposite and I don’t really like that.

“He’s a great dancer when he’s against journeymen and people that aren’t gonna put it on him. I think there’s too much emphasis on how the fight was finished tonight instead of his actual performance. He was underperforming all the way through the fight.

“The power? honestly, I’ve felt proper light heavyweight power and, from watching him, it doesn’t look like he’s got it.”

On Friday night, Sam Gilley will defend his Commonwealth super welterweight title at London's iconic York Hall, stepping into the ring against Liverpool's Jack McGann. Gilley, with a professional record of 17-1 (8 KOs), had initially been preparing for a rematch with Louis Greene, the man he dethroned for the title last October. However, Greene was forced to pull out due to injury, leaving Gilley to face a last-minute opponent change.

Gilley, a 30-year-old East London native, recently signed with Queensberry Promotions and has been eyeing a shot at the prestigious British Lonsdale Belt. Although the withdrawal of Greene postpones those plans, Gilley will no doubt be relieved to still be fighting, especially after an inactive stretch since his Commonwealth title victory nearly a year ago.

His new opponent, Jack McGann, 10-1-1 (7 KOs), was originally scheduled to fight Ryan Maycock in a six-rounder on the undercard. However, the opportunity to step up as Gilley’s challenger for the Commonwealth title was too enticing to pass up. McGann, who has only won one fight since being stopped by Louis Greene in March, sees this as a golden chance to revive his career. The 31-year-old is eager to erase the memory of that loss and prove he belongs at the top.

Also featuring on the undercard are unbeaten cruiserweight Tommy Fetcher, 8-0 (6 KOs), and rising super featherweight Royston Barney-Smith, 11-0 (5 KOs), both of whom will be looking to continue their ascents in the sport.

Boxing fans are in for a competitive night of action as Gilley and McGann prepare to headline the York Hall card, with Gilley’s Commonwealth belt on the line.

Source: John Evans, @John_Evans79

#SamGilley #JackMcGann #CommonwealthTitle #BoxingNews #QueensberryPromotions #YorkHall #Boxing

4o

In a recent interview, renowned light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol shared valuable insights into how emotions and technical differences play a significant role in boxing, particularly when comparing his experiences facing Artur Beterbiev and Canelo Álvarez.

Bivol emphasized the importance of managing emotions in the ring, explaining that many fighters who faced Canelo allowed their emotions to affect their performance. "A lot depends on your emotions," Bivol stated. He believes that unchecked emotions can prevent boxers from reaching their full potential, and it's crucial to maintain control to execute strategies effectively.

Discussing his much-anticipated matchup against Artur Beterbiev, Bivol acknowledged the aura surrounding Beterbiev, who is often described as a "monster" in the ring. However, Bivol felt excitement rather than intimidation when preparing for the challenge. "I was excited; I was trying to use the right emotions about it," he remarked, confident in his ability to handle the pressure.

When it came to Beterbiev’s punching power, Bivol explained that Beterbiev’s strength lies not in a single knockout blow, but in the consistent power of his combinations. "It's not just one punch; he’s trying to throw combinations. Every punch in the combination is heavy," Bivol noted. This differs from Canelo, who focuses on landing powerful single punches from a distance. According to Bivol, while Canelo may have a harder single punch, Beterbiev is more relentless in his attacks, delivering hard blows with every punch in a combination.

Bivol further contrasted the two champions, noting that while Beterbiev's compact and aggressive style ensures every punch is strong, Canelo's power is more concentrated in individual punches. "Maybe Canelo’s single punch is harder sometimes than Beterbiev’s," Bivol observed, but he added that Beterbiev is physically bigger and naturally strong.

Bivol also reflected on weight divisions, acknowledging that while Canelo is considered a “small 168,” his strength is still remarkable. Bivol's admiration for both fighters is clear, as he highlights their different but equally dangerous approaches inside the ring.

As for his own approach, Bivol draws inspiration from legendary boxers such as Sugar Ray Leonard and Muhammad Ali, adopting a technical and intelligent fighting style over raw power. This blend of mental discipline, technical skill, and ability to manage emotions is what has made Dmitry Bivol one of the most respected figures in modern boxing.

Bivol’s comparisons between Beterbiev and Canelo offer a rare glimpse into the mind of a champion, underscoring the differences in strategy and power between two of the sport’s biggest names.

Source: Dmitry Bivol's interview analysis

#DmitryBivol #Beterbiev #CaneloAlvarez #BoxingAnalysis #LightHeavyweight #Boxing

Boxing stands apart from many sports with its own set of unspoken rules and a unique culture, often demanding more from its participants than just physical prowess. Within this brutal arena, fighters face a barrage of criticism for choices that may not align with fans’ expectations. This scrutiny can range from questioning a boxer’s bravery in the ring to blaming them for injuries sustained during a fight. The pressure to conform to an idealized image of heroism can overshadow the sheer courage it takes to step into the ring.

This culture fosters a sense of tribalism, where fans can often overlook the inherent dangers of the sport. The discussion around performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) reflects this unsettling dynamic. Many fans harbor suspicions about fighters’ integrity, perpetuating a narrative that underestimates the risks taken by boxers. The naive belief that boxing is somehow free from the taint of PED use ignores the reality that safeguards are necessary to protect athletes who put their lives on the line for entertainment.

Boxing’s code requires participants to be heroes, battling not just opponents but also their own limitations. The expectation that fighters should exhibit unwavering resilience can lead to unfair judgments. Oleksandr Usyk’s accomplishments, for example, set an impossibly high standard that many fighters are then unfairly compared to. When a boxer fails to meet this expectation, they can face harsh criticism for not embodying the warrior spirit that fans glorify.

The pressure can lead to dangerous mental health ramifications. Boxers, who are already dealing with the physical toll of their profession, often lack the space to develop or redeem themselves after setbacks. Instead of understanding the challenges inherent to the sport, fans sometimes turn to scorn, perpetuating an atmosphere where empathy is in short supply.

This harsh reality became evident in the fallout from the Devin Haney versus Ryan Garcia fight. Despite Haney being the victim of a brutal beating and Garcia testing positive for a banned substance, the narrative shifted to portray Haney as the villain when he chose to sue Garcia. This reaction highlights how boxing’s unwritten code can prioritize a flawed sense of honor over accountability.

The contrasting views expressed in discussions about Haney’s lawsuit further illustrate this moral quagmire. While some argue for Haney's right to seek justice, others, like Sergio Mora, maintain that a fighter should simply endure the consequences of defeat, perpetuating the archaic notion of toughness. This mindset reduces complex issues of safety and integrity to a matter of pride.

As boxing evolves, it remains intertwined with a culture that often distorts reality. The sport’s brutal nature can lead to an unsettling desensitization, causing fans and even fighters to become detached from the human element involved. The characters that emerge from this world, with their dramatic stories and heroics, often resemble figures from a dark fantasy rather than real people.

In this context, we risk losing sight of the reality that fighters are humans with emotions, struggles, and vulnerabilities. The pressure to perform at an extraordinary level can lead to significant mental and physical tolls, as seen in Haney’s case. The harsh judgments cast upon him by fans not only undermine his humanity but also reflect a broader failure to empathize with those who risk everything in the ring.

Boxing, while an intense and often brutal sport, should not strip away our capacity for compassion. Acknowledging the struggles faced by fighters is crucial in maintaining our own humanity and understanding the sport on a deeper level. As fans, we must remember that beneath the bravado and spectacle, there are real people enduring real challenges. Embracing this perspective allows us to appreciate boxing not just as a form of entertainment, but as a complex and demanding pursuit that deserves our respect and empathy.

Source: Reflection on the culture and code of boxing

#Boxing #DevinHaney #RyanGarcia #OleksandrUsyk #SportsCulture #EmpathyInSports

Junto Nakatani, regarded as one of the premier fighters globally, successfully defended his WBC bantamweight title with a sixth-round stoppage of Filipino challenger Petch Sor Chitpattna, solidifying his path toward a potential historic clash with Naoya Inoue. The fight, held at Tokyo’s Ariake Arena, showcased Nakatani’s technical prowess as he improved his record to 29-0 (22 KOs), while Chitpattna fell to 76-2 (53 KOs).

The match began cautiously, with both fighters sizing each other up. However, a powerful left hand from Nakatani in the first round signaled his intent, shaking Chitpattna early on. Despite having his hands often down, Nakatani remained composed, expertly evading Chitpattna’s attempts to engage.

As the fight progressed, Nakatani increased his tempo in the third round while maintaining a tactical approach. Chitpattna struggled to connect effectively, often finding himself swinging at air or hitting Nakatani’s arms. The defending champion continued to score with clean punches, landing effective right hooks and a long left hand in the fourth round.

Chitpattna, demonstrating resilience, pressed forward through the fifth and sixth rounds, but Nakatani’s superior accuracy and power were evident. Halfway through the sixth, Nakatani delivered a thunderous straight left that visibly stunned Chitpattna. Following this, he unleashed a flurry of punches, overwhelming the challenger.

Despite a valiant effort to counter, Chitpattna was knocked down in the final moments of the sixth round. The referee waved off the fight at 2:59 of the round, marking another impressive addition to Nakatani’s highlight reel.

In the bantamweight division, Tenshin Nasukawa also showcased his skills, improving his record to 5-0 (1 KO) with a unanimous decision victory over Gerwin Asilo (9-1, 4 KOs). The fight saw Nasukawa winning convincingly with scores of 97-92 and 98-91 on two cards.

Nasukawa’s performance highlighted his control of the fight, using his jab effectively and connecting with body shots and lead right hooks. Although Asilo was knocked down in the ninth round and Nasukawa suffered a cut from a head clash in the tenth, the former kickboxer remained in command throughout.

With both fighters securing victories, Nakatani’s path is now clearer toward a potential showdown with Inoue, promising to be one of the most significant bouts in Japanese boxing history.

Source: Reflection on the recent bouts involving Junto Nakatani and Tenshin Nasukawa.

#JuntoNakatani #NaoyaInoue #PetchSorChitpattna #TenshinNasukawa #BoxingHighlights #WBCBantamweight

Ahead of this weekend, Junto Nakatani and Japanese fight fans were gearing themselves up for a mega-fight between the WBC bantamweight champion and Naoya Inoue – with a clear plan in place. Now, those plans have gone out of the window, but Nakatani will assumably still pursue the clash, albeit by an alternate route.

Naoya Inoue recently revealed his willingness to stage an all-Japanese showdown between himself and fellow superstar Nakatani but believed that the undefeated 118lber should first face his brother, Takuma Inoue, in a bantamweight unification bout.

Unfortunately, Takuma Inoue lost his WBA bantamweight title to Seiya Tsutsumi in a fight of the year contender in Sunday’s main-event as a part of the two-day Japanese boxing festival at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, ending hopes of witnessing Nakatani face the brother of the arguable pound-for-pound number one.

Meanwhile, Nakatani headlined the Monday main-event of the festival against Tasana Salapat, who had lost just once in 77 professional contests, that defeat coming at the hands of the very same Takuma Inoue.

Though Inoue didn’t fulfil his side of the agreement this weekend, Junto Nakatani’s win was an emphatic as one has become accustomed to when tuning in to witness 26-year-old southpaw.

From the opening round onwards, it was clear to see that Salapat, known also as Petch CP Freshmart and Petch Sor Chitpattana, was overmatched, proving his easy-on-the-eye record to be a typically false one that is often seen in Thai contenders.

After buckling the legs of the challenger in the first round, Nakatani bided his time until the second to deal further consequential damage and put a number of punch sequences together to further showcase the discrepancy in skill.

Offering little in return and with minimal defence against a power-puncher such as Nakatani, Chitpattana’s downfall seemed inevitable, but it did not come as early as expected, much to the credit of the chin and front-footed pressure of Salapat, as well as the patience of the champion.

In the fifth, Salapat appeared to become aware that he would need a stoppage to win and began to exchange with Nakatani, a proposal that most in the bantamweight division would perceive to be a deathwish.

However, in the sixth, the same tactics were applied from the challenger and he was subsequently sent flying into the canvas at the hands of a brutal combination from Nakatani.

With seconds to spare in the round, an authoritative straight left-hand put an end to the contest, the game Chitpattana falling face-first in dramatic fashion to continue Nakatani’s now three-fight knockout streak since moving up to bantamweight.Devin Haney’s team demands VADA testing for a rematch with Ryan GarciaEMPHATIC FROM NAKATANI 🥊

Junto Nakatani STOPS Petch Sor Chitpattana with a VICIOUS left hand to retain his WBC bantamweight crown and remain undefeated 👑 pic.twitter.com/zX87K6Y9z7

— Sky Sports Boxing (@SkySportsBoxing) October 14, 2024

During the aftermath, Nakatani did not disclose his ambition to meet with Naoya Inoue but did target that he will fight anybody with a title, alluding to either a date with ‘The Monster’ or the plan to unify the belts at 118lbs.

Elsewhere on today’s bill, there was an impressive win for fan-favourite former kickboxing champion Tenshin Nasukawa, who dominated the previously undefeated Gerwin Asilo to win a unanimous-decision and edge towards a bantamweight world title shot.

That came after South Africa’s Phumelele Cafu sprung the split-decision upset over Kosei Tanaka to claim the WBO super-flyweight title and Anthony Olascuaga’s defence of the WBO flyweight title was rendered as a no contest following a questionable cut suffered by Jonathan ‘Bomba’ Gonzalez.

Ariake Arena Sunday Results:

Takuma Inoue (20-1) vs. Seiya Tsutsumi (11-0-2) – WBA Bantamweight World Title – Tsutsumi UD

Kenshiro Teraji (23-1) vs. Cristofer Rosales (37-6) – (vacant) WBC Flyweight World Title – Teraji TKO11

Seigo Yuri Akui (20-2-1) vs. Thananchai Charunphak (25-1) – WBA Flyweight World Title – Akui SD

Shokichi Iwata (13-1) vs. Jairo Noriega (14-0) – WBO Light-Flyweight World Title – Iwata TKO3

Ryuga Sato (1-0) vs. Asato Sato (1-1-1) – Bantamweight – Majority Draw

Ariake Arena Monday Results:

Junto Nakatani (28-0) vs. Tasana Salapat (76-1) – WBC Bantamweight World Title – Nakatani TKO6

Tenshin Nasukawa (4-0) vs. Gerwin Asilo (9-0) – WBO Bantamweight Asia Pacific Title – Nasukawa UD

Kosei Tanaka (20-1) vs. Phumelele Cafu (10-0-3) – WBO Super-Flyweight World Title – Cafu SD

Anthony Olascuaga (7-1) vs. Jonathan Gonzalez (28-3-1) – WBO Flyweight World Title – No Contest

Excell James Junior (2-1) vs. Ayato Kobayashi (1-0) – Super-Lightweight – Majority Draw

In an excellent fight, South Africa’s unbeaten Phumelele Cafu won the WBO super flyweight championship, scoring a fifth-round knockdown on his way to a contentious split decision win over Kosei Tanaka.

It was a brilliant battle. Tanaka looked heartbroken by the end, although he had done himself proud, while all of Cafu’s dreams came true at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo.

“I’m speechless,” said a jubilant Cafu. “This is everything I ever wanted. My whole life. My whole career.”

The cards read 114-113 (twice) in his favor, while one judge marked the same score but for Tanaka.

There was little in it, in truth, but the big, crunching right hand knockdown made the difference.

Tanaka, 20-2 (11 KOs), tried to lead in the first while the South African was opting to counter.

Cafu missed several left hooks early in the second but connected with the shot as Tanaka closed the space between them in the middle of the round.

Tanaka picked and prodded with rapid straight shots, doubling his jab and leading with right hands and they landed hard blows simultaneously at the bell.

Cafu, 11-0-3 (8 KOs), had his moments in the third, and his trainer, Colin Nathan, could be heard cheering his every success, shouting “Yes” each time from the corner.

Tanaka posed a constant threat and Cafu was working hard to stay with him. The Japanese fighter started to score more regularly to the body as the fight wore on, and Cafu was seemingly trying too hard to make the left hook work.

Cafu was keeping his shape, however, and tucking up well and in the fifth detonated a terrific counter right hand that dropped Tanaka heavily.

Tanaka had tried to launch a right uppercut but Cafu released his right like an arrow and Tanaka crumbled.

Having thrown so many left hooks, it was the right hand that had shocked the champion.

As the action resumed, Cafu was measured and composed in his follow up and Tanaka managed to get his legs back under him.

Tanaka looked sharp again in the sixth but Cafu, sporting dyed purple hair to match his purple shorts, was happy to meet him in the exchanges.

The champion was busy in the seventh. He upped his volume, found a groove and his body work was increasingly relentless. Cafu shook his head to deny the effect of the body shots, but they were landing with a hurtful regularity. It was a big round for Tanaka.

“You’re giving him too much fucking respect,” shouted Nathan in the corner.

There were plenty of entertaining exchanges through the eighth and Cafu slotted in a left-right that jarred Tanaka’s head back. Good round.

Arguably the more eye-catching shots came from the visitor but Tanaka was persistently scoring and answering almost all scoring shots with his own and he maintained regular investments to the body.

Cafu, now with swelling below the left eye, caught Tanaka on the end of several right hands in the 10th but the champion’s fitness was extraordinary and he had plenty in the tank to not only stand up to big shots – including a solid right hand to the side of the head – but to outwork the challenger.

Again, the South African thumped home good punches in the 11th, but he could not prevent Tanaka walking forward and throwing his own shots and near the close of the session they both swung for the fences. It was an exhaustive battle.

Tanaka’s engine, however, did not falter. He was fresh and filled with energy and his pressure caused distress flares to signal from Cafu late on. He looked to his corner and as Tanaka came on strong, Cafu managed to see out the fight and hear the final bell.

Superb contest, and one they could do again.

Back in March, Fabio Wardley received plaudits for a gutsy display against Tokyo 2020 bronze medallist Frazer Clarke, battling to a draw in one of the fights of the year. However, their rematch was far more one-sided, with Wardley defending his British title for a third time with a phenomenal first-round demolition of his rival. Now, the domestic fight fans ponder, who next for the Ipswich fan-favourite?1. Joe Joyce (16-3)

If someone had proposed a showdown between Wardley and Joe Joyce around 18 months ago, many would have predicted an annihilation from ‘The Juggernaut’ – who was seen as a serious threat to the heavyweight world titles.

Yet, back-to-back knockout defeats to Zhilei Zhang damaged Joyce both physically and mentally and a recent loss to Derek Chisora has left the 39-year-old in no-man’s-land. A return to the British title level against a respected champion could be Joyce’s last chance to show that he can achieve further success in the sport, whilst Joyce represents a gatekeeper to the world level for Wardley.

Both men are signed with Queensberry so the bout would hinge on whether Frank Warren would be willing to put Joyce in with Wardley, especially considering Joyce’s lack of defence of late and Wardley’s obvious punch power – which left Clarke requiring surgery at the weekend.

2. Lawrence Okolie (20-1)

As would be the case with Joe Joyce, a win for Wardley against Lawrence Okolie would mean that he wins the British title outright – that representing the necessary fourth victory in a contest for the Lonsdale belt.

A former WBO cruiserweight champion, Okolie recently vacated his WBC bridgerweight title ahead of a step-up to the heavyweight division, where he hopes to render his disappointing defeat to Chris Billam-Smith a distant memory and begin a new chapter in the sport’s glamour division.

Okolie has shown that he has the skills to deliver on the world stage, but his style is often critiqued for its negativity. Although unproven at heavyweight, the experienced Okolie would be a sizeable risk for Wardley but a possibly monumental win against a big-name opponent for the undefeated British champion.

3. Solomon Dacres (9-0)

The last of three British suggestions, English heavyweight champion Solomon Dacres was being mentioned with names such as Wardley, Clarke and Johnny Fisher not so long ago, until an unconvincing majority-decision win against Michael Webster saw his stock fall.

However, Dacres silenced those doubters in the rematch with Webster and dominated before securing a seventh-round stoppage win to get his career back on track and restore some momentum.

A clash between Wardley and Dacres would be another all-Queensberry affair but would be seen as the easiest of the three options for a British title fight and could even be added as a late addition to the Fury-Usyk II undercard after Wardley’s rematch with Clarke proved to be far less arduous than predicted.4. Filip Hrgovic (17-1)

With the Dubois-Joshua II undercard rumoured to be another ‘Queensberry vs. Matchroom: five versus five’, Eddie Hearn is lacking heavyweights for an appearance on the bill. Therefore, we could see Filip Hrgovic’s name called once again, despite a lack of clarity surrounding his promotional status.

Hrgovic was expected to defeat Daniel Dubois for the inaugural card in June and claim the IBF interim heavyweight title in the process to set up a showdown with Anthony Joshua but instead we witnessed a coming-of-age performance from ‘Triple D’ – who then famously went on to knock ‘AJ’ out at Wembley Stadium.

Although Wardley has impressed British fight fans, Rio 2016 medallist Hrgovic and Hearn would likely believe that the 29-year-old is a good opportunity to get back to winning ways and showcase his talent on a blockbuster card to re-establish himself as a threat to the heavyweight world champions.

In terms of world rankings, Wardley sits at #8 with Hrgovic at #9 with both the WBO and WBC, whilst Hrgovic remains at #9 with the IBF – where Wardley is placed at #12 (although these ratings are yet to be altered following the win over Clarke).5. Jarrell Miller (26-1-2)

Last but not least is controversial American contender Jarrell Miller, who has returned to the peak of the heavyweight scene after serving a lengthy ban due to multiple failed drugs test.

‘Big Baby’ gave Dubois a run for his money in Riyadh in a performance that is ageing well, before an unfortunate draw against former unified heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr. on the Crawford-Madrimov card – a fight which many felt Miller had won.

Renowned for being one of the best trash talkers in the division, a clash between Wardley and Miller would be extremely sellable and got help Warren turn his fighter into a household name if he is able to silence the loud-mouthed New Yorker.

Miller and Hrgovic would both be noticeable jumps up in competition and whether Wardley is ready for such an increase in skill remains to be seen, but the fearless nature of the hard-hitting Brit makes both proposals seem realistic.

Miller is positioned at #13 with the WBA, where Wardley is at #9 – but a win would see the latter’s star power and reputation notably increase even if his world ranking would not.

Before talks with any future opponents can begin, Wardley must make a decision on whether he wishes to remain at the British level and attempt to win his title outright or make the jump up to the world level in order to position himself for the world titles – which are expected to become fragmented shortly after Fury-Usyk II.

Regardless of whatever move Wardley opts for, it seems as though Great Britain and Frank Warren are well poised for the future in the heavyweight division, with Dubois, Wardley and Moses Itauma all anticipated to stick around amongst the best in the world.

The WBO flyweight championship fight between Anthony Olascuaga and Jonathan Gonzalez at the Airake Arena in Tokyo, Japan ended after just 2:25 of the first round following a clash of heads.

The action was warming up before the fighters leant into one another and their heads collided, leaving “Bomba” Gonzalez with a cut by his left eye.

The action resumed but as the fighters came out of a clinch, referee Robert Hoyle asked whether Gonzalez could see and the fighter said he could not, and Hoyle called the fight off and the contest was ruled a No Decision.

Southpaw Olascuaga, from Los Angeles, California, was clearly frustrated and is now 7-1 (5 KOs) 1 ND. Puerto Rico’s Gonzalez is 28-3-1 (14) 1 NC and 1 ND.

British and Commonwealth heavyweight champion, Fabio Wardley, is developing quite the collection of hardware.

When the end of year awards are handed out, Wardley, 18-0-1 (17 KOs), may need to clear yet more space in his trophy cabinet.

In February, he and Frazer Clarke put themselves in contention for Fight of the Year honors after combining for 12 of the most grueling heavyweight rounds you will see. On Saturday night, Wardley put himself in line for Knockout of the Year honors when he brought the rivalry to a brutal finish by taking out Clarke in the first round of their eagerly awaited rematch. 

Many assumed that Clarke’s long, distinguished amateur career would make him the more adaptable of the two and the fighter more suited to putting into the practice the lessons learned in the first drawn fight.

It wasn’t to be. Clarke looked confident and shaped up well in the very early stages of the fight but while Wardley, his usual explosive and aggressive self, importantly, he was far more clinical this time around. 

“It’s always sweet. You never wanna do overtime in that ring,” he told Queensberry. "After the last 12 rounds we shared together, I know how I felt the next day, so I wasn’t really too keen to go through all that again but if I ever have to go to those deep places and dig from the well, we all know I’ve got it in me. 

“I said in the buildup that I watched the fight back and knew the errors I’d made and how we could put it together a lot sweeter and I did that on the night.”

Whether it is the memory of Trevor Berbick stumbling around the ring after absorbing a Mike Tyson left hook or Lennox Lewis depositing Hasim Rahman on the canvas with his head perfectly positioned on Don King’s crown logo, heavyweight knockouts tend to leave an indelible mark on the sport.

The unsettling sight of a clearly physically damaged Clarke clinging to the ropes after absorbing the fight-ending right hand will linger in the mind for a long time.

Wardley is quickly developing a reputation as a natural and ruthless finisher. 

The 29-year-old doesn’t think that his heavyweight rivals will have learned anything particularly new from watching his stoppage of Clarke but hopes that the graphic knockout lodges itself into their minds. 

“My record speaks for itself. Every opponent I’ve faced has touched the canvas so that’s a no,” he said.

“Any fighter who wants to step between the ropes with me is gonna have to take that into account. At any minute, I can switch you out. We do know that, as heavyweights, we are big boys, and we can all do it to each other. 

“I don’t think that’s nothing too new but all you know from me is I’m dangerous from minute one until the last minute in the ring.”

John Evans has contributed to a number of well-known publications and websites for over a decade. You can follow John on X @John_Evans79

Raymond Ford is plotting a world title in a second weight class as he moves up to 130lbs to take on Orlando Gonzalez in Philadelphia on November 9. 

Ford, who this year lost his featherweight strap to Nick Ball, will act as chief-support to the world title doubleheader that sees Jaron Ennis defend his IBF welterweight title against Karen Chukhadzhian and Jesse Rodriguez puts his WBC junior bantamweight belt on the line against Pedro Guevara.

Ford (15-1-1, 8 KOs) won the WBA crown at Featherweight in March with a 12th round KO win over Otabek Kholmotov in Verona, New York before losing to Ball three months later.

The 25-year-old admitted to Matchroom Boxing podcast ‘Flash Knockdown’ that he held on at 126lbs for too long, despite his body telling him to move up.

“I don’t single out anybody or try to go for the easiest route,” said Ford. “I just want the champions to give me the opportunity to fight for a world title, and I want to test my skills amongst the best. I hear that Anthony Cacace is going to move up, so Sugar Nunez will get a world title shot - if he doesn’t have a dance partner, I’ll fill those shoes and get in there with him.

“It’s the same thing when I fought for my first world title, guys moving up and vacating belts, it’s history repeating itself. I like the challenge with the guys that people are scared of or turn into the boogeyman, the monster. I like that, so I can go and display my skills and she that they are just regular human beings.

“I’m fighting alongside great champions in Philadelphia in Boots and Bam, but I’m at the stage in my career where I want to be headlining my own shoes and doing my own thing,” he continued. “It’s cool to fight close to home, and eventually I want to do my own thing.

“I don’t look at the Ball fight like it was a setback, I think I gained a lot more than anything. The fans enjoyed the fight, happy with it and even though I didn’t get the decision it was a great night of boxing, that’s what really matters, it’s about putting on a show for the fans. A lot of my fans think I won the fight, so I don’t feel bad about the fight in any way.

“I thought that I should have moved up before the Kholmotov fight, but I was so close to the World title, and I wanted to be a World champion. I stayed for the money and the opportunity to fight on the Saudi Arabia card, but truthfully, I should have moved up.”

Junior featherweight John Riel Casimero might be back in the win column, though questions about his professionalism remain.

After two failed attempts to make weight on Saturday, Oct. 12, Casimero picked a first-round technical knockout of former title contender Saul Sanchez at Yokohama Budokan in Yokohama, Japan.

The former three-division titleholder Casimero (34-4-1, 23 KOs), 35, took a moment to see what the 27-year-old Sanchez (21-4, 12 KOs), of Encino, Calif. had before unloading a barrage of punches. A right hook staggered Sanchez, who briefly touched the canvas with his gloves, prompting referee Yuji Fukuchi to administer a count.

Sanchez beat the count and attempted to retaliate, but that decision led to his downfall. Casimero landed a crushing left hook that floored Sanchez. Although Sanchez managed to rise again, Casimero overwhelmed him with a flurry of punches, forcing the referee to stop the bout at 2:41 of the opening round.

Casimero’s career has been turbulent in recent years. Since his August 2021 win over Guillermo Rigondeaux, he has fought just four times, all in Asia, including this latest bout. His last fight was almost exactly a year ago, on October 12, 2023.

For Sanchez, this marks his second loss in 2024, following a narrow majority decision defeat to then-WBO bantamweight titleholder Jason Moloney in January. He rebounded with an eight-round unanimous decision over Arthur Villanueva, but the loss to Casimero was the first time Sanchez had been stopped in his career.

Paco Damian, the promoter of junior lightweight Omar Salcido, views his fighter’s upcoming bout against Chris Colbert as a make-or-break moment for both men, as each seeks redemption and a path to larger opportunities.

The two will headline “Wednesday Night Fights” on the ProBox TV app, squaring off at the ProBox TV Events Center in Plant City, Florida.

For Salcido, the bout represents a chance to reintroduce himself after his October loss to Jose Nunez on ProBox TV. For Colbert, once considered a rising star, it’s a crucial fight as he looks to bounce back after going 1-2 in his past three outings – including a knockout loss to Jose Valenzuela in December.

“This fight is do-or-die for both of them,” Damian told BoxingScene. “Whoever wins will open the door to a big fight and a great opportunity.”

Mexico’s 24-year-old Salcido (19-1, 13 KOs) got back on track last December with a victory over Louis Coria. Meanwhile, the 28-year-old Colbert (17-2, 6 KOs), of Brooklyn, is returning to junior lightweight following his defeat to Valenzuela, who recently claimed the WBA junior welterweight title by defeating Isaac Cruz.

Reflecting on Salcido’s loss to Nunez, Damian acknowledged the pressure Salcido felt competing on a stage like ProBox TV.

“He tried so hard to look good, but everything came out wrong,” Damian said. “He was loading up on the big left hook, but Nunez kept moving and that punch never came. I saw him lose that fight.”

Damian believes Salcido learned from the experience, pointing to his more composed performance against Coria. “He wasn’t too tight or eager. He worked his left hook and timed his combinations well,” Damian said.

Now, Salcido will face a skilled opponent in Colbert, whose speed and movement pose a significant challenge. Damian recognizes that Colbert’s strengths mirror those of Nunez but at a higher level.

“Colbert has good combinations, a good sense of distance, and throws from different angles,” Damian said. “Omar will have to punch in between Colbert’s punches, but I believe Omar is the stronger fighter.”

Salcido has been training with Jose Benavidez Sr. in preparation for the fight, benefiting from the trainer’s knowledge of Colbert’s style. Benavidez Sr. was in Valenzuela’s corner for both of his bouts against Colbert.

“Omar has serious power. If he lets his hands go between Colbert’s combinations, he can hurt him,” Damian said. “This fight won’t go the distance. If Omar stays focused and doesn’t chase the knockout, I believe he’ll come out the winner.”

It shouldn’t be a surprise that, when given an opportunity, O’Shaquie Foster went for the counterpunch.

The target: junior lightweight titleholder Lamont Roach Jr.

Roach, who holds the WBA belt at 130 pounds, had been asked about the former WBC titleholder last week in an interview with Naji Grampus of Cigar Talk . He said that Foster could come next after Roach’s bout with lightweight titleholder Gervonta “Tank” Davis.

“After I win, he can come up to ’35 and I’ll smoke him. I will smoke him. On my mother, I’m smoking him,” Roach said. “I’m really one of them. No funny. No disrespect to nobody I ever been in the ring with. Ask them. For real. Or pull up. Come to camp or something. Show me that I’m not.”

Grampus interviewed Foster this week and, of course, asked him about Roach’s comments.

“This dude is tweaking. Bozo,” Foster said. “It’s crazy because I’ve seen him say, ‘I’m one of them guys.’ We never shared the ring, because if we shared the ring, he wouldn’t be talking like that. I promise you, if it was amateurs, sparring, wherever, any time I would’ve met him in the ring, he wouldn’t have been talking like that, because anybody that’s been in the ring with me, you don’t hear them talk like that at all.”

Roach (25-1-1, 10 KOs) will challenge Davis on Dec. 14 in Houston.

“He talking so much. He better handle his business in December,” Foster said. “There’s gonna be a lot of backlash. You doing all that big talk. Don’t go up there and shit the bed, wet the bed.

“He do everything good, nothing great. For me. He’s average,” Foster added. “See the thing is why I don't really respect all that talking: You ain’t fought nobody. You defended your title against some … come on, man. We know. We stacking up resumes against him or anybody else that’s champions, it’s no comparison.”

Roach’s lone loss came against Jamel Herring via unanimous decision in a 2019 title fight. He went on to win a world title in November 2023, topping Hector Garcia by split decision, and then defended the belt in June with an eighth-round technical knockout of Feargal McCrory.

“I respect Garcia. he was a champion. I don’t ever disrespect no champion,” Foster said. “He was coming off that loss with Tank. Literally been like almost a year, right? [It was about 10 and a half months.] Split decision, right? And it woulda went to Hector if he [Roach] didn’t get that knockdown in the last round. And then he came out talking all rough after that, and it’s like, ‘Bro, you gotta prove yourself still.’” 

Foster (22-3, 12 KOs) has his own business to take care of. The 31-year-old Texan won the vacant WBC world title in February 2023 with a unanimous decision over Rey Vargas, defended it with a sensational final-seconds knockout of Eduardo “Rocky” Hernandez in October 2023, beat Abraham Nova via split decision in April, and then controversially lost it to Robson Conceicao in July.

Most observers feel that the Conceicao result was a robbery. Foster is getting an immediate rematch: Conceicao-Foster II is scheduled for Nov. 2 at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. The fight will air on ESPN+.

Junior welterweight Michel Rivera is setting his sights high, and he’s not holding back on who he wants next. Rivera, nicknamed "La Zarza Ali," is calling out Teofimo Lopez Jr., who has been making more headlines for his social media activity than his in-ring performances. Rivera, however, is open to fights with Devin Haney or Ryan Garcia if they’re looking for a challenge.

Rivera (26-1, 14 KOs), 26, last fought in July, earning a split decision over Hugo Alberto Roldan (22-3-1, 7 KOs) in a bout many felt was closer than it should have been. Before that, Rivera secured a marquee win in November against former titleholder Sergey Lipinets (18-3-1, 13 KOs), marking his first fight at junior welterweight after a tough loss to Frank Martin at lightweight in December 2023.

Now, Rivera has set his sights on Lopez (21-1, 13 KOs), 27, who last fought in July, defeating Steve Claggett (38-8-2, 26 KOs). Lopez's performance, coupled with Claggett’s up-and-down career, hasn’t impressed Rivera.

“He’s a fighter, and he’s famous, but I believe I have the skills to beat him,” Rivera said. “I’ve seen him lose, like to Sandor Martin, and they still gave him the fight. He’s not as good as they say, and I know I can beat him. I’m already a name in this division, and he’s out here fighting guys with eight losses. I’m one of the best at 140, but they just want fights they think they can win. I want a world title, and I’m ready to make this happen.”

Rivera hasn’t ruled out the possibility of facing Haney (31-0, 15 KOs) or Garcia (24-1, 20 KOs), both currently inactive. Haney's majority decision win over Garcia was recently overturned to a no-contest due to Garcia failing pre-fight drug tests, while Garcia is serving a suspension.

“Boxing is more of a business than a sport. I know those fights will happen eventually,” Rivera said. “When Ryan Garcia is looking for an opponent, my name is always on the table, but they never take it. These big guys don’t want to fight real fighters like me.”

Currently ranked No. 14 by both the IBF and WBC, Rivera believes his well-rounded skill set makes him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division.

“I can punch, I move well, and I’m ready for any of them,” Rivera said.

Jeff Fenech, the ex-trainer of Mike Tyson, has

He was the trainer of the former world champion during the last years of his career, including his final professional fight in 2005 against Kevin McBride. Although he expressed reservations about whether Tyson should return to the ring at age 58, Fenech highlighted the possibility that the fight could be extremely short.

In an interview with Mirror Fighting, Fenech stated that if he had the decision in his hands, he wouldn’t allow Tyson to fight. However, he acknowledged that the legendary 58-year-old boxer has the skill, intelligence, and experience to capitalize on a quick victory. He also emphasized Tyson’s ability to evade his opponent’s punches and counterattack effectively.

“If it was my decision, I’d much prefer him not to fight at all, but he’s going to fight,” Fenech assured. “Realistically, if Mike uses upstairs and nothing else, and does the right things, this could be the easiest money he’s ever made.”

For Fenech, the fight could end in seconds if Tyson employs his well-known defensive strategy. He highlighted the skill difference between Tyson and Paul, with the former being a master of defense and counterpunching.

“If Mike concentrates and makes him miss, and then makes him pay… That’s what Mike’s an expert in; he’s got great head movement,” Fenech stated. “If he does that in 30 seconds, the fight could be over in 30 seconds.”

Jake Paul has not faced an opponent of Tyson’s caliber, despite boasting 10 victories in 11 fights. His only loss so far was to Tommy Fury. Although he has shown potential in previous fights, Fenech believes that Paul lacks the skill and knowledge to take on such an experienced fighter as Tyson.Turki Alalshikh confirms Anthony Joshua vs Daniel Dubois rematch date

“Jake Paul doesn’t have the skill, the boxing knowledge,” Fenech pointed out. “I’ve watched him, but anyone can punch a pad or a bag or someone who really can’t fight.”

Fenech also emphasized the power of Tyson’s punches, something Paul has never experienced. “There’s not a chance in the world Jake Paul can take a Mike Tyson hook, a Mike Tyson right hand, or a Mike Tyson uppercut.”

Despite his reservations about the fight, Fenech maintains strong loyalty to Tyson, describing him as a close friend and practically family.

The bout between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson will take place at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, and will be broadcast live on Netflix, which has heavily promoted the event. Initially, the fight was scheduled for July 20, but it was postponed due to health issues faced by Tyson, who was diagnosed with an ulcer.

Photo credit: Media Focus / L.A. Boxing Gym

LOS ANGELES – Rudy Hernandez has quietly created a case for Trainer of the Year award consideration, and he’ll have the opportunity to further prove his point on Oct. 14 when his charges Junto Nakatani and Anthony Olascuaga defend their titles in Japan. 

Before Hernandez and the three-division crownholder and current WBC 118-pound titlist Nakatani (28-0, 21 KOs) and recently minted 112-pound titlist Olascuaga (7-1, 5 KOs) headed to Tokyo, they held a media day at the newly erected L.A. Boxing Gym in the heart of downtown. The windows from South Los Angeles Street show illustrations of Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson and Genaro “Chicanito” Hernandez, Rudy’s late younger brother and two-time super featherweight champion.

Gym owner Shigeki Matsuda, a former Japanese boxer, made the homage to Genaro. He and his younger brother Naoki Matsuda, also a boxer, have a long history with the Hernandez family. Alongside Knockouts Boxing in South Gate, the L.A. Boxing Gym is now a new home for Hernandez, who lives so close to the facility that he’s contemplating riding a bike moving forward just to beat L.A. traffic. 

Outside of Los Angeles, the career-long coach and cutman “Chicano” Hernandez, a 62-year-old South Central L.A. native, has made a significant name in Japan for his Midas touch, skillfully guiding the likes of Masayuki Ito, Takanori Hatakeyama and Shinji Takehara throughout the years, and now, Nakatani and the Olascuaga ever since they were teenagers. The tag team tandem of Nakatani and the Olascuaga will be featured as part of a two-day Tokyo card featuring a combined seven title fights on ESPN+ culminating on Monday. 

“Junto Nakatani is the greatest fighter I’ve ever trained,” Hernandez told BoxingScene. “Junto is very dedicated and he comes to work. He's always on time and always in the gym before me. We have such a great connection. It's easy to work with him because even when he came to me at age 15, his focus was only on boxing. It was to be a champion one day, and nothing interfered with that dream. Look at him now. He's a three-time world champion. 

“He can adjust to anything that is being brought to the table. He knows how to fight inside and outside. He doesn't repeat the same rounds. He makes changes and does things differently. There are not a lot of fighters like him.” 

If Nakatani gets past the heavy underdog Thai challenger Petch Sor Chitpattana, he’ll begin preparation for fights against brothers Naoya and Takuma Inoue next year.

“The first time I heard about Junto fighting Naoya Inoue, it made me nervous and gave me butterflies in my stomach,” said Hernandez. “It will be one of the biggest fights in Japanese history. It's a must-watch. I hate it when people say, 'Inoue needs to come to America' For what? They don't even support the ones that are here. Now you want to bring someone else? It makes no sense. 

"I’m hoping Naoya blinks and we beat him. Look, I have a lot of respect for Inoue. I think he's a great fighter. I've been a fan of his since I first saw him. He's the top dog, and we’re coming up. When that day comes, we’ll be ready. Our goal is to go to 122 pounds next year. Naoya Inoue is the greatest fighter and No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world. He's beaten the best. But I don't care about anything before Oct. 14.” 

Nakatani’s brother-in-arms at the gym, Olascuaga, has made a surprise run from being a cab driver to a world champion under Hernandez’s watch, and he’ll be facing rugged veteran and 108-pound champion Jonathan Gonzalez in his first defense of his 112-pound title. 

“Anthony makes me nervous because he's a really good fighter but sometimes the brain and the talent don't click,” said Hernandez. “I always tell him, 'You know what surprises me? You can cross the street and not get run over.'”

The jovial but straight-shooting Hernandez is not a sugar coater by any stretch. 

“After my brother lost to Oscar De La Hoya by a sixth-round stoppage in 1995, I've never been in a fight thinking 'We got this,'” said Hernandez. “I was lost in the corner because Oscar came out fighting a different way and I never expected it. I made sure after that to always be ready and that we're never lost. We need to be ready as professionals no matter what they bring to the table.”

In addition to pulling off double duty for Nakatani and Olascuaga on Monday, Hernandez will be serving as a cutman for Tenshin Nasukawa. 

“I'm training my guys to be 100 percent ready. If and when my guys lose, they lose because the opponent fought better than them, and not because they weren't ready,” said Hernandez. 

“We're here to do a job, and we're not done. When they retire we can talk about all of the great things. Right now, we have to work hard and sacrifice.”