ROCKING OUT THE LIGHTS
(INSIDE BOXING) March 14, 2006
STEPHEN S. JOHNSON

On March 18, 2006 in Atlantic City, New Jersey (HBO) there will be crowned a new WBC HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION when 33 year old Hasim “The Rock” Rahman (41-5-1, 33 KO’s) takes on 37 year old James “Light Out” Toney (69-4-2, 43 KO’s).

On paper the fight seems a total mismatch. Toney, at 5’9” is dwarfed by Rahman, standing 6’3”. But the intrigue of the huge-hearted Toney versus the talented but somewhat lackadaisical Rahman, makes this fight one we cannot miss.

Toney, the Detroit, Michigan native is another in the long list of fighters that honed his pugilistic skills in the world famous Kronk gymnasium. The ability of Toney to out-physical and outlast opponents is his trademark.

Rahman, who hails from the tough streets of Baltimore, Maryland has fought the best the heavyweight division has had to offer in the last few years. His talent has always been viewed as tremendous but his ability to stay focused has made him fall into the “also-ran” category at different periods.

“The Rock” must keep the sharp left jab he throws so well, in the face of “Lights Out” for an entire 12 rounds if victory is to be his. “Lights Out” must press, press and press hoping that will allow him to wear down “The Rock” giving him a knockout victory in the later rounds.

There is no way possible for James Toney (76” reach) to get close to Hasim Rahman (82” reach) if “The Rock” handles his business. Toney always coming forward seems to be made-to-order for what Rahman CAN and SHOULD do.

The strength of James Toney overcoming the boxing skills of Hasim Rahman is a long shot, but then who would have had imagined these two fighting for the WBC HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP OF THE WORLD?