Talk Tough 9/13/04

INSIDE BOXING (September 16, 2004) - You won't believe the busy boxing filled week I had. Last Wednesday I had a teleconference with James ''Lights Out'' Toney. He informed me that he will stop his hand picked opponent, Rydell Booker September 23 and then mop up the heavyweight division. The bout will be broadcast live on Fox Sports Network.

Friday morning I was on ESPN 1180AM out of Knoxville, Tennessee as their guest analyst. We discussed Cory Spinks' impressive win over Miguel Angel Gonzalez last weekend and whom he might face next. We also discussed Oscar De La Hoya's new reality show and his upcoming bout against Bernard Hopkins.

Friday night I was ringside at the Atlantic City Tropicana while Jackie Frazier-Lyde [13-1,9KO's] won the UBA women's heavyweight title against Mary Ann Almager [14-8,9KO's]. The judges had it 95-93, 96-92, 97-92 for a unanimous decision. Frazier would have had a 10-0 shut out if not for two trips to the canvas. Almager did not capitalize on her opportunities and Frazier came back strong after both knockdowns.

Saturday night I was invited up to the Gleason's Gym Fantasy Boxing Camp in the Catskill Mountains. It is a four-day camp in which boxing fans get trained by former world champions, Matthew Saad Muhammad, Carlos Ortiz, Emile Griffith, Vito Antuofermo, and Juan LaPorte. World-renowned trainers Lou Duva and Hector Rocha were also on staff. The main event of the camp was a card, showcasing the hard work the trainees put in. Everyone fought a three round exhibition bout. I had a great time working the corner for my old friend, Matthew Saad Muhammad during his exhibition bout. Gleason's owner, Bruce Silverglade and his staff are top notch. I recommend the camp to all boxing fans regardless of your age or skill. You can find information on next year’s camp at their web site: Gleasonsgym.net. My favorite part was the conversations with the champs and trainers. I asked Vito Antuofermo how he maintained such excellent condition during his career. Surprisingly, he said that he only ran and did calisthenics. He said he actually ran too much and wished he had weight trained to increase his knockout power. Muhammad, Rocha, and Ortiz all agreed with me that Hopkins is going to put a hurting on DeLaHoya this week. Lou Duva's prediction was if it's a boring fight Oscar could win but if they stand toe-to-toe Hopkins would win easily.