Sugar Rush: Shane Mosley vs. Andre Berto: PREDICTION

by Troy J. Hines

A severe spike in glucose levels, or a “sugar rush”, is caused by the consumption of high glycemic foods, or foods that release high amounts of sugar into the bloodstream. The real question is, is can this phenomenon also be caused by the consumption of a high volume of “punches”? On Saturday, January 30th, the 2010 elite boxing schedule will commence with a welterweight title unification bout (WBC & WBA) between “Sugar” Shane Mosley and Andre “The Beast” Berto, at the Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, aired only on HBO.

The potential for a classic “changing of the guard” bout is one of the alluring aspects of this match up. Similar to when we saw Hearns defeat Benitez or DelaHoya defeat Chavez, “old blood” is eventually replaced by new in the sport of boxing. However, this pivotal moment in prize fighting typically takes place when the younger challenger is 100 percent ready to take his place at the “throne”. For his sake, I hope Berto will be completely ready for the challenge, because if the same Mosley enters the ring that entered the ring against Antonio Margarito in 2008, we may be waiting in the wings for a new sentry.

Tale of the Tape
Height:
Mosley 5’9”/ Berto 5’8-1/2” ADVANTAGE Mosley by ½”
Weight:
Mosley 147lbs/ Berto 147lbs EVEN
Reach:
Mosley 74”/ Berto 72” ADVANTAGE Mosley by 2”

Andre Berto of Miami, Fl fights in a style similar to the natural disaster that plagues his state of birth—a hurricane. The current WBC Welterweight title holder’s explosive approach to pugilism makes him a fan favorite amongst boxing fans around the world. This is due in part to his devastating right uppercut, but also to his lightning fast-- fingers? To say the Beast is “internet-savvy” is an understatement. Let us not omit that Andre Berto is a pioneer. He is one of the new breed of “self-marketing” athletes who promote themselves on internet networking sites and communication mediums like Twitter. In between training, I assume, Berto finds time to socialize with his fans on the internet, by releasing motivational content, celebrity praise, where he’s partying, or even “trash talking” his next opponent. In short, he is a “twitteraholic”. My only advice for the young “Beast” would be to take an “old school” mental approach towards the “throw back” opponent that he’s facing in Shane Mosley. Take a walk through a forest at night, chop fire wood, or perhaps begin taking cold showers. Even other boxers have “tweeted” to the Haitian-American rising star, that he may want to temporarily abandon his internet pursuits to pursue a dogged mindset against a strong, fast, and fierce opponent in the well seasoned Hall of Famer-to-be.

In 2009, Shane Mosley has had a great impact as to why boxing is on the ascent with major fights on the horizon for 2010. He not only surprised the boxing world with a devastating knockout over the “Tijuana Tornado”, but has also been instrumental as a partner with Golden Boy Promotions to bring “A Class” boxers to the public eye. In addition, with a commitment to fitness and ring tactician Nasim Richardson now in his corner, the aging veteran may have found his fountain of youth.

Mosley’s career certainly seems to be “catching a second wind”. When you couple this with his ring experience, it makes for a severe obstacle even for a young talented fighter. However, even the “magically” gifted who may believe they don’t need anything, need something. The “Urban Dictionary” defines experience as such:

“If you have it, you don't need it.
If you need it, you don't have it.
If you have it, you need more of it.
If you have more of it, you don't need less of it.
You need it to get it.
And you certainly need it to get more of it.
But if you don't already have any of it to begin with,
you can't get any of it to get started with,
so you have no idea how to get any of it in the first place.
Bottom line, if you've never had any of it ever,people
just seem to know.”

Above all else, I believe experience will prove to be the key factor as to why Sugar Shane Mosley wins this fight. Although Berto is coming off of wins against Juan Urango, Luis Collazo, and Steve Forbes, Berto seemed to struggle at times with the latter two opponents. To his credit, Berto has improved aspects of his “game” with each of his last three title defenses. However, most boxing pundits would agree that “Sugar” Shane Mosley will be his most formidable, and definitely his “sweetest”, test to date.

In examining Mosley’s fight history, “Sugar” has consistently fought well against pressure fighters. Vargas, Mayorga, and Margarito all love to press the action with controlled, and at times, wild aggression. This style would be the best option for Berto in this fight, but unfortunately it is still a losing option. Attempting to outbox “Sugar” is even worse. Mosley is the better boxer, and can punish opponents by setting traps and effectively countering.

For all boxing fans, January 30th should be a “sweet” occasion as we witness the WBC and WBA belts unified. I still believe Andre Berto is the welterweight of the near future, but his fight against the inevitable third prize fighting Hall-of-Famer donning the nickname “Sugar” comes too soon. Floyd Mayweather, Sr. showed us how to make Kool Aid in HBO’s 24/7 series, and I’m officially drinking it. And let me tell you, it’s sweet--too sweet. How sweet you may ask? Let’s just say that it’s so sweet it can be bad for your health. However, the experience Berto needs to become legendary will be made available on that night at Mandalay Bay. Sugar rush.

Boxing vs. MMA: Combat Cousins

by Troy J. Hines


Sibling rivalries are common place within families that are loving or dysfunctional. Whether children compete for their mother’s attention, the last “swallow” of orange juice, or the title of “alpha male of the youth division”, competition is as natural in the home as it is inside of the ring. There is now a symbolic rivalry that has emerged, and has been brewing like a good stout over the last decade. Boxing vs. Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).

It seems as though the “octagon” has captured the attention of the younger generation with a product that is exciting, and with less constraints then its “older cousin”--boxing. The rules of MMA allow combatants to use any variety of kick boxing, striking, grappling, ground-and-pound, wrestling, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques. This concept is amazing, but often times yields “amateur-esque” bouts, due to a lack of proficiency by at least one fighter, in one of the many disciplines allowed.

As an avid boxing fan and martial artist, I have always wondered what the sport will look like in 20 years, when 6 year-olds have been practicing all aspects of their art form, instead of putting combat “puzzle pieces” together late in life? I constantly see great wrestlers with appalling kick boxing and boxing technique, and great kick boxers with less than average “roll” ability. The younger generation will need more experience to develop a keen eye for mistakes, and more than a “jack of all trades, master of none” training regimen.

As an Olympic and truly global sport, boxers have been training in the “Modern Sweet Science” (MSS) since John Graham Chambers wrote the Marquess of Queensberry rules in 1865. If we dig deeper, we will find that an archaic form of boxing was an Olympic sport in Greece in 688 B.C., better known as “pygmachia”. Mastery of the jab, over hand right/left, hooks, uppercuts, slipping, crouching, parrying, ducking, footwork, and countering are all subsets of the skill set of boxing. With far more constraints than its “combat cousin”, MMA, it allows boxers more time to perfect their techniques with razor sharp accuracy. I think it is safe to say that a 21 year-old man with zero experience in boxing, will never be able to compete at the pro level after only two years of training in the sport. However, we do see examples of MMA fighters rise to celebrity status with laughable amateur backgrounds. I believe it is actually the constraints of boxing, which begets skill, that make the sport so great.

Rules, or constraints, are what differentiate actual combat from combat sports. In the octagon, if a man wants to shoot and take me to the ground, I will counter with a downward vertical elbow strike to the back of the head or neck. Unfortunately for me, I would be disqualified, and the winner would be rendered unconscious or worse. In my opinion, so called “no holds barred fighting” have constraints that primarily benefit the ground fighter. If it is truly “no holds barred”, allow a striker to strike, eye gouge, or bite if necessary! Just joking. I guess my issue is that due to the numerous kinds of joint locks and chokes allowed, why can’t a striker hit what may be exposed if MMA rests its invincibility on the lack of constraints it possesses?

My love of boxing, although not equal to any other sport, is similar to my love of Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As far as sports are concerned, I suppose this makes me a purist. If I want to see elite level kick boxing, I will watch Buakaw Por Pramuk of Thailand, and if I want to see impressive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu I will watch Roger Gracie. These specialized art forms take a long time to perfect, so to add other skill sets to the “recipe”, can hinder the development of the practitioner in a specific discipline.

In addition, footwork in combat sports is essential to the proper execution of various offensive and defensive techniques. The footwork necessary for boxing, kick boxing, wrestling, judo, etc. are all different. How can a practitioner of 2-4 years of training believe that they have mastered the footwork of all “martial” disciplines? The legendary 17th century Japanese samurai, Miyamoto Musashi, who also authored “The Book of Five Rings”, said it took him nearly 50 years to understand the meaning of what it meant to be a “martial artist”.

Believe it or not, boxing is also a martial art, and a solid amateur foundation provides the nurturing needed to develop elite level fighters. In MMA, most fighters turn pro after 20 fights or less, while in boxing an amateur career of 50 or more fights is customary for elite level champions. In addition, the development of sportsmanship that is stressed to the youth participants in boxing creates a culture that is aligned with the Olympic spirit.

Sometimes respect is the best thing parents can teach a child. Respect for their elders, respect for their teachers, and respect for their siblings. I have enjoyed watching the “little brother” grow, and hopefully the product of MMA will continue to get better and better. My love of the sport of boxing is also coupled with the historic figures associated with it. As a boxer, Muhammad Ali has done so much since the Civil Rights era, to help our nation move forward and stay true to the Constitution that governs our country. Ali is just one example of many boxers that have influenced the world.

Ironically, respect is the element that is missing from the sport called MMA, whereby traditionally respect and martial arts go hand-in-hand. This is more of a product of its ownership, than of the disciplines it governs. Perhaps a step in the right direction is for the caged combatants to bow to each other before the bouts. “Martial Arts” is a heavy phrase, with heavy hands, and the disrespect of the word should have heavy consequences. A lack of respect of MMA for boxing, or boxing for MMA will leave the “Combat Family” with a heavy heart. I hope the youth are listening; there are some great elite level prizefights on the horizon. Watch boxing young grasshopper. Watch boxing.

The D.C. Underdog: Lamont Peterson vs. Timothy Bradley

by Troy J. Hines

The Washington, DC Metro Area, now known as “Barack City”, has produced noteworthy pugilistic talent for many years. To name a few, Bob Foster, Ray Leonard, Simon Brown, Mark Johnson, Sharmba Mitchell, Demarcus Corley, William Joppy, and currently Anthony & Lamont Peterson.

Straight out of the “go hard” South East streets of the former “Murder Capital of the World”, D.C.’s “Peterson Brothers” story of rags to riches, literally, is made for reality television. If being dealt a “bad hand”, and living through financial and emotional hardship is a prerequisite to prizefighting greatness, than the D.C. duo are destined to become World Champions.

On Saturday, December 12th at 9pm EST on Showtime, we will witness a classic “boxer-puncher” match up as boxing ascends back to global recognition with an excellent close to the 2009 season. Lamont Peterson will be challenging the talented champion, Timothy Bradley, for his coveted WBO Junior Welter Weight Belt. Many boxing pundits, other than me, believe Peterson has not fought the same level of competition as the “Schwarzenegger-esque”, “Mini Me” version, Timothy Bradley.

Before going any further, let’s glance at the Tale of the Tape:

Height: Peterson 5’9”/ Bradley 5’6”
ADVANTAGE Peterson by 3”
Weight: Peterson 140/ Bradley 140
EVEN
Reach: Peterson 74”/ Bradley 69”
ADVANTAGE Peterson by 5”

SIZE:
When we examine the size quotient of the two pugilists, let’s do our due diligence by putting our kinesiologist hats on. Size alone does not reveal the most honest comparison of the fighters, but somatotype or body type helps to expose the truth. The somatotype of Timothy Bradley is best described as a compact mesomorph—stocky. This trait, coupled with the genetic gift of speed; or the presence of a plethora of type 2b muscle fibers, yield what many consider lightning fast reflexes and an effective jab. By contrast, Lamont Peterson is best described as an ecto-meso somatotype with the emphasis on the “ecto”—sinewy. Peterson’s longer extremities and almost equal punch velocity will prove to be a key factor into how and why the underdog will emerge victorious.

SPEED:
The slight, let me repeat, slight speed edge goes to the compact speedster from California. However, this miniscule speed edge will be rendered insignificant due to the D.C. native’s mastery of an offensive and defensive jab that is as polished as the wheels on Jay-Z’s Bentley.

SKILL:
In the skill department I would grade the two boxer-punchers equal, because the different skill sets the two gentlemen have mastered are due to differing anatomical qualities. Stocky vs. Sinewy. Long vs. Short. Street vs. Suburbs…

On another topic, word on the “street” is that Lamont Peterson had some very impressive moments against Floyd Mayweather, Jr. during a sparring session this past summer. It is fair to say this is hearsay, but if this is true, I don’t see the speed of Bradley rattling Petersons’ game plan. If Peterson can exploit the shorter man’s reach disadvantage by employing straight right hands as his preferred method of attack, the Washingtonian should effectively penetrate the defense of “Desert Storm”. However, Peterson will not only have to be attentive to the speed of the champion, but to the Kevlar-like head of the Palm Springs native that he sometimes adopts as an alternative to fighting with his hands. On the other hand, Bradley will have to use good head movement, which he already possesses, and strategies of entry to keep the fight on the inside. Body shots and close quarters combinations will be the champions’ best “friends”.

In my opinion, Petersons’ ability to keep Bradley at bay and off balance, via an effective single and double jab, will be one of the keys to victory for the fighter who prefers “Go-Go” to “Hip-Hop”. The way I see this prizefight, is that the “hungrier” man wins this bout by decision. In the words of Bob Marley, “A hungry man is an angry man…” Stay focused Lamont, bring the title home, and have lunch at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. when you get back. Word on the street is that you don’t even need an invite. Stick and move!

Williams vs. Martinez: Two South Paws, One Winner: PREDICTION

by Troy J. Hines

I sat in front of my computer screen for a long time before I began typing this prediction. Due to my love of the sport of boxing, my respect for Paul Williams (37-1), and the need to remain objective for this analysis, I had to replace my “child-like” admiration of the fighter, with the discerning eye of a concerned Dad. I have had the wonderful opportunity of dining with Williams, one of his sparring partners, and his trainer/mentor George Peterson during the height of their preparation for the anticipated showdown with Kelly “The Hoax” Pavlik—sorry I meant “Ghost”. You know—“Ghost”, as in flighty or false imagery, the spirit or the lack thereof, or “I’m pulling out of the fight to fight a lesser opponent” kind of “ghost”. Once again I apologize. As a budding journalist that was not politically correct.

Moving forward, one of the things I first noticed about the humble champion from “South Cackalaky” was a calm reserve that is usually donned by grandfathers and yacht owners, rarely amongst young prize fighters. There was no arrogance in his handshake, he spoke softly but confidently, and displayed his mind-boggling reach as he grabbed the A-1 from the other side of the table. If you haven’t seen the “Supreme Ectomorph” in battle, you are in for a treat when he squares off with another south paw, Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez (44-2-1), on Saturday, December 5th at 9:30pm EST only on HBO.

The two “Lefties” should provide “game” entertainment for boxing fans as styles make fights. To his credit, Martinez is a dangerous and speedy “boxer-puncher” who was robbed of his knockout of Kermit Cintron on February 14th 2009. Before I go any further, let’s take a look at the tale of the tape:

Height: Williams 6’2” /Martinez 5’11” ADVANTAGE Williams by 3”
Weight: Williams 160 /Martinez 160 EVEN
Age: Williams 28/ Martinez 34 ADVANTAGE Williams in the Youth Department
Reach: Williams 82”/ Martinez 76” ADVANTAGE Williams by 4”

I truly enjoyed watching Martinez (51% Wins by KO), use foot speed, hand speed, and showmanship to earn an eventual knockout over Cintron—no this was NOT a draw. It was a KO mistaken for a head butt by Cintron and the referee. I have one word for the governing bodies of boxing—INSTANT REPLAY! The difference in this fight with Mr. Williams (71% Wins by KO) is that punch volume will not be an issue by which the quick footed Argentine can steal rounds. However, if Martinez can keep the fight on the inside, and effectively commit to the body, he may be able to slow down “The Punisher’s” rate of onslaught. On the other hand, “Maravillas” lust for showmanship, i.e. showboating with his hands down, could be one of several reasons which result in The South American “kissing the canvas”. Make no mistake, I am not saying this will be an easy fight for Williams as his only loss comes from another Latin fighter off lesser ability—Carlos Quintana. To “The Punisher’s” credit, he avenged that loss with a devastating first round KO of the Puerto Rican fighter that all but obliterated that loss from our memories. However with patience, as I believe he’s learned, the talented fighter from Aiken should be able to win by knockout. I can visualize Williams dominating the older, shorter man with stiff jabs, straight lefts, and other not so easily named punches from all angles. Williams will need to put on an impressive performance to leave promoters and fighters that have been ducking him in the past, nowhere to hide.

The long and lean fighter from the “Dirty South” reminds me of the character Dhalsim of the famous Arcade game Street Fighter II. Dhalsim’s endless arms, like Williams’, become longer as the deadly Yoga master blasts his inferior opponents from long range. Then using ancient Kabbadi magic he leaves his victims charred within a burning inferno. OK, maybe, just maybe, I’m exaggerating the “The Punisher’s” abilities. But if I were a betting man, I’d say Mr. Williams will be saying “Buenos Noches” to the exciting south paw from Buenos Aires.