THIS weekend’s action took place in various locations around the globe, producing fireworks, controversy, and plenty of talking points. There were cuts in California, exchanges in Japan, fury in Florida and tactical battles in Nottingham. Let’s see who got the better of it and who struggled for relevance.
Boxing winners of the week
Carl Frampton
The Belfast favourite was perfectly balanced across the DAZN broadcast, even with two Irish fighters on the bill. Carl has seamlessly slotted over from TNT Sports, along with Dev Sahni, who was on the mic conducting interviews.
Izzy Asif
Announcing a stadium show in Galway, the GBM chief is giving leading promoters a run for their money. A growing stable, including fan-friendly fighters, plus the DAZN platform, is helping elevate the brand.
Anthony Cacace
Three top wins on the bounce for the ‘Apache’ who is enjoying a late career swansong. The fitness, resilience and opportunities are in place for a man who has gone from being the untameable talent of Belfast boxing to the verge of a possible homecoming against O’Shaquie Foster.
Boxing losers of the week
Steve Gray
The usually dependable UK official once likened his scoring methods to filling and emptying a glass of water. The cup overflowed for Leigh Wood as Gray somehow had the Nottingham man ahead 77-75 at the conclusion of his bout with Anthony Cacace.
Mauricio Sulaiman
It wasn’t a good week for the WBC in terms of optics. Mauricio sanctioned Manny Pacquiao back into a title fight despite their rankings system having worthwhile modern-day challengers waiting for their opportunities.
The likes of Cissokho, for example, who got a gift in Equatorial Guinea. The referee was kitted out in that bout with “Riyadh Season” sponsor patches on his shirt. Time for Mauricio to brush up and restore some order.
Charly Suarez
The Filipino soldier had a tough break in San Diego, landing a superb shot that clearly opened up Navarrete’s cut, only for the bout to go to the cards. The WBO champion retained and poor Charly found himself on the receiving end of a harsh decision. That decision has since been turned into a no-contest which is scant reward for his efforts.
