Essex fighter has schemes on British World title fight with two-weight Champ
By Adam Appleton
Kevin Mitchell is pursuing a summer fight with WBO lightweight champion, Ricky Burns, Appleton’s Edition can exclusively reveal.
The Dagenham Destroyer was at York Hall, Bethnal Green last night attending a Five Live radio special, “Future of Boxing”, hosted by Mark Chapman, Steve Bunce and Mike Costello.
He was joined there by the likes of Frank Warren, Eddie Hearn, Darren Barker, Enzo Calzaghe, Spencer Oliver, Colin Hart as well as representatives of the Amateur Boxing Association (ABA), British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) and BBC and ITV officials.
We asked Mitchell whether he was eyeing up a fight with the Scottish World champion as he posed for a photograph.
He replied: “It’s a fight I’m very much looking at, probably for June or July, but there is still a lot of paperwork to get through first.”
Burns first has to negotiate Namibian, Paulus “The Hitman” Moses on the 10th March.
He was changed from interim to official WBO champion when Juan Manuel Marquez went up to light-welterweight. This will be his first defence.
Mitchell was devastatingly knocked out in 3 rounds by Australian Michael Katsidis, putting his hopes of superstardom on hold.
When he fought John Murray fourteen months later in a much-anticipated return, Mitchell triumphed in an exhilarating 8th round TKO.
After the fight, he told reporters he had suffered personally around the time he fought Katsidis.
Whether true or false, the same Katsidis was out-boxed by Ricky Burns in a unanimous 12-round decision in a title-eliminator.
However Mitchell has matured since his sole defeat in 33 fights, not only as a boxer, but as a man.
He is currently working in several inner-city schools, trying to encourage a re-introduction of boxing in school to infuse youths with the same discipline and goals that he had.
Oh, you Bute!
Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn also announced that his new charge Carl
Froch has agreed to take on the much-untested, but undefeated IBF super-middleweight champion Lucian Bute.
The Cobra will take on the 32 year old Canada-based Romanian in Nottingham on the 26th May.
Hearn was delighted that they had managed to get Bute to fight outside adopted home, saying: “I have to respect Lucian and his team for agreeing to enter the Lion's Den and face Carl in his hometown, but am fully confident that Carl can become a world champion again.”
Read more at: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/boxing/article-2108900/Carl-Froch-fight-Lucian-Bute-Nottingham-May-26.html#ixzz1nzs8v9zE
Saturday, 3 March 2012
Monday, 13 February 2012
Poor team selection Spears Liverpool’s Champion’s League hopes
By Adam Appleton
Liverpool’s Champion’s League hopes were dealt a severe blow today as they were defeated by Manchester United.
The Red’s lost 2-1 at Old Trafford in a highly-charged encounter that saw Wayne Rooney score a brace before Luis Suarez struck a consolation goal.
The Uruguayan striker was facing Patrice Evra for the first time since the Frenchman accused him of racist behaviour when the two sides met at Anfield in October.
Having served his subsequent 8-match ban, Suarez then refused to shake Evra’s hand, much to the annoyance of the wing-back. Suarez was then, in-turn, refused handshakes by Ferdinand, Valencia and Welbeck, United’s black players.
There was much surprise when Craig Bellamy and Charlie Adam were only on the bench.
Instead, Liverpool picked the far more defensively-minded options of Downing and Kuyt on the wings, whilst Jay Spearing and Jordan Henderson were both preferred over Scotland international, Adam.
They managed to keep the score-line to 0-0 for half-time despite playing averagely, but in the second half Liverpool really were a disappointment.
Dalglish later admitted that the Red Devil’s were the better team, before angrily defending Suarez, saying: “I think to suggest that (Suarez caused a tense environment) is bang out of order!”
Sir Alex Ferguson countered, branding Suarez a ‘disgrace’ and telling Liverpool to get rid of him.
It was Spearing that was to blame for the second United goal, attempting a risky pass against Valencia, who then broke free and squared to Rooney.
Such mistakes did little to justify Dalglish’s decision to leave out Adam and Bellamy.
It is hard to say that Arsenal, Chelsea, Newcastle or Manchester City would leave out Robin Van Persie, Daniel Sturridge, Demba Ba or Sergio Aguero in any equally big game as Liverpool did with Bellamy.
Only Glen Johnson and Jose Enrique had a good showing, and only when the former was pressing forward.
Steven Gerrard was poor, constantly misplacing passes, Luis Suarez, in spite of his goal, was never going to have his best game, whilst Stewart Downing and Dirk Kuyt were, at times, non-existent down the flanks.
Not only did Liverpool lose, but worse, they deserved to lose because in games with prestige like these you must always pick your strongest side.
But Everton-youth Wayne Rooney saw to this, and you know it’s been a strange day when he comes out with the most philosophical comment: “They are both professionals and that (the handshake incident) is between those two individuals.”
Liverpool’s Champion’s League hopes were dealt a severe blow today as they were defeated by Manchester United.
The Red’s lost 2-1 at Old Trafford in a highly-charged encounter that saw Wayne Rooney score a brace before Luis Suarez struck a consolation goal.
The Uruguayan striker was facing Patrice Evra for the first time since the Frenchman accused him of racist behaviour when the two sides met at Anfield in October.
Having served his subsequent 8-match ban, Suarez then refused to shake Evra’s hand, much to the annoyance of the wing-back. Suarez was then, in-turn, refused handshakes by Ferdinand, Valencia and Welbeck, United’s black players.
There was much surprise when Craig Bellamy and Charlie Adam were only on the bench.
Instead, Liverpool picked the far more defensively-minded options of Downing and Kuyt on the wings, whilst Jay Spearing and Jordan Henderson were both preferred over Scotland international, Adam.
They managed to keep the score-line to 0-0 for half-time despite playing averagely, but in the second half Liverpool really were a disappointment.
Dalglish later admitted that the Red Devil’s were the better team, before angrily defending Suarez, saying: “I think to suggest that (Suarez caused a tense environment) is bang out of order!”
Sir Alex Ferguson countered, branding Suarez a ‘disgrace’ and telling Liverpool to get rid of him.
It was Spearing that was to blame for the second United goal, attempting a risky pass against Valencia, who then broke free and squared to Rooney.
Such mistakes did little to justify Dalglish’s decision to leave out Adam and Bellamy.
It is hard to say that Arsenal, Chelsea, Newcastle or Manchester City would leave out Robin Van Persie, Daniel Sturridge, Demba Ba or Sergio Aguero in any equally big game as Liverpool did with Bellamy.
Only Glen Johnson and Jose Enrique had a good showing, and only when the former was pressing forward.
Steven Gerrard was poor, constantly misplacing passes, Luis Suarez, in spite of his goal, was never going to have his best game, whilst Stewart Downing and Dirk Kuyt were, at times, non-existent down the flanks.
Not only did Liverpool lose, but worse, they deserved to lose because in games with prestige like these you must always pick your strongest side.
But Everton-youth Wayne Rooney saw to this, and you know it’s been a strange day when he comes out with the most philosophical comment: “They are both professionals and that (the handshake incident) is between those two individuals.”
Tuesday, 7 February 2012
Is Klitschko fight Vitali important for Haye?
By Adam Appleton
It has emerged that David Haye is in talks with Vitali Klitschko in spite of the 31 year-old’s October retirement.
The Bermondsey man has allegedly weighed up his options and is negotiating a meeting with the 40 year old Klitschko.
In his final fight before ‘retirement’, Haye lost weakly to WBO, IBO, IBF and now WBA champion Wladimir Klitschko in a unanimous points decision, giving the Klitschko brother’s all the alphabet heavyweight belts.
As a consequence, Vitali is not likely to be so generous with Haye financially as his brother was for their July bout.
The story of David Haye and the Klitschko brother’s dates back to April 2009 with the brash Londoner ruffling feathers with his trash talk, a fight was arranged but Haye withdrew with a back injury.
Haye also wore the now famous “severed heads” t-shirt to cause further animousity.
The Briton then beat Russian giant Nicolai Valuev on points, claiming the WBA title before defeating John Ruiz and later Audley Harrison in one of the division’s most farcical fights.
With these defences won, Haye appeared the only real threat to the Klitschko’s domination. But this hope was shattered by the tentative performance that came in Hamburg.
Now it seems that Haye has vengeful schemes on fighting Vitali Klitschko.
Reports from both camps say that the contract talks are on hold until after Vitali faces Dereck Chisora on 18th February in Munich, but rumours say a fight could happen in November.
Klitschko’s manager Bernd Boente said: “Vitali wants to finish what his brother didn’t do, meaning knock out David Haye.”
If this is indeed true, the man from Bermondsey has much to fear.
Not only is he challenging the man with the record knockout percentage in heavyweight history, not only the same man who arguably chased Lennox Lewis into retirement, but Vitali can also claim to have never been conclusively beaten.
In the last big heavyweight clash before Haye versus Klitschko, Klitschko was controversially stopped in 6 rounds by Lennox Lewis in Los Angeles in 2003. A deep cut above the left eye caused the stoppage and plans for a rematch were dashed by Lewis’ retirement.
His only other loss occurred when a torn rotator cuff forced his withdrawal against Chris Byrd in 2000. In both these defeats, the German-based Ukrainian was unanimously ahead on the judges scorecards.
In spite of this nine year unbeaten streak, Hall of Fame trainer Emanuel Steward believes Haye’s style could work more effectively against Vitali.
“Vitali is bigger and hits hard but he comes straight in and doesn’t have the same balance and elusive movement as Wladimir, so David might give him a little more trouble.”
Indeed it is a style that got Haye a near-flawless record. Until meeting Klitschko, his only previous loss came against Carl Thompson in 2004 when an over-active Haye threw in the towel by the end of the 5th round.
Should Haye decide to dwell on tales from the past, he might be advised to think better of targeting the arguably superior Klitschko.
Sugar Ray Leonard and Muhammad Ali succumbed to breaking retirements and both paid for it. Ali was beaten up by Larry Holmes before losing to Trevor Berbick. Leonard did beat Marvin Hagler, Tommy Hearns and Roberto Duran, but eventually lost to Terry Norris and Hector Camacho.
However Floyd Mayweather made it work, coming back from retirement to beat the likes of Juan Manuel Marquez and Shane Mosley.
Haye has much to consider before stepping back into the ring. Fitness and age are no issue to him as they were to Leonard and Ali, at 31 he has been training lightly in case of such an offer from Vitali. The issue is his legacy, if there is to be one.
He must consider the risk:reward; If he beats Dr Ironfist, great, that will add to or maybe even give him legacy.
If he loses, he will be remembered as the man who could not back up his infamous trash-talk, and as the man whose only big heavyweight scalp was Nicolai Valuev, hardly a Hall of Famer.
Although his reputation as one of the finest Cruiserweights remains untarnished, his performances in boxing’s headline division will live long in the memory of many fans.
To me, Haye the heavyweight still has much to prove. So go on David, show us what you are made of and take on Vitali, you owe your fans a better lasting memory than excusing your performance on a broken toe and ultimately failing on the biggest night of your career.
ENDS
It has emerged that David Haye is in talks with Vitali Klitschko in spite of the 31 year-old’s October retirement.
The Bermondsey man has allegedly weighed up his options and is negotiating a meeting with the 40 year old Klitschko.
In his final fight before ‘retirement’, Haye lost weakly to WBO, IBO, IBF and now WBA champion Wladimir Klitschko in a unanimous points decision, giving the Klitschko brother’s all the alphabet heavyweight belts.
As a consequence, Vitali is not likely to be so generous with Haye financially as his brother was for their July bout.
The story of David Haye and the Klitschko brother’s dates back to April 2009 with the brash Londoner ruffling feathers with his trash talk, a fight was arranged but Haye withdrew with a back injury.
Haye also wore the now famous “severed heads” t-shirt to cause further animousity.
The Briton then beat Russian giant Nicolai Valuev on points, claiming the WBA title before defeating John Ruiz and later Audley Harrison in one of the division’s most farcical fights.
With these defences won, Haye appeared the only real threat to the Klitschko’s domination. But this hope was shattered by the tentative performance that came in Hamburg.
Now it seems that Haye has vengeful schemes on fighting Vitali Klitschko.
Reports from both camps say that the contract talks are on hold until after Vitali faces Dereck Chisora on 18th February in Munich, but rumours say a fight could happen in November.
Klitschko’s manager Bernd Boente said: “Vitali wants to finish what his brother didn’t do, meaning knock out David Haye.”
If this is indeed true, the man from Bermondsey has much to fear.
Not only is he challenging the man with the record knockout percentage in heavyweight history, not only the same man who arguably chased Lennox Lewis into retirement, but Vitali can also claim to have never been conclusively beaten.
In the last big heavyweight clash before Haye versus Klitschko, Klitschko was controversially stopped in 6 rounds by Lennox Lewis in Los Angeles in 2003. A deep cut above the left eye caused the stoppage and plans for a rematch were dashed by Lewis’ retirement.
His only other loss occurred when a torn rotator cuff forced his withdrawal against Chris Byrd in 2000. In both these defeats, the German-based Ukrainian was unanimously ahead on the judges scorecards.
In spite of this nine year unbeaten streak, Hall of Fame trainer Emanuel Steward believes Haye’s style could work more effectively against Vitali.
“Vitali is bigger and hits hard but he comes straight in and doesn’t have the same balance and elusive movement as Wladimir, so David might give him a little more trouble.”
Indeed it is a style that got Haye a near-flawless record. Until meeting Klitschko, his only previous loss came against Carl Thompson in 2004 when an over-active Haye threw in the towel by the end of the 5th round.
Should Haye decide to dwell on tales from the past, he might be advised to think better of targeting the arguably superior Klitschko.
Sugar Ray Leonard and Muhammad Ali succumbed to breaking retirements and both paid for it. Ali was beaten up by Larry Holmes before losing to Trevor Berbick. Leonard did beat Marvin Hagler, Tommy Hearns and Roberto Duran, but eventually lost to Terry Norris and Hector Camacho.
However Floyd Mayweather made it work, coming back from retirement to beat the likes of Juan Manuel Marquez and Shane Mosley.
Haye has much to consider before stepping back into the ring. Fitness and age are no issue to him as they were to Leonard and Ali, at 31 he has been training lightly in case of such an offer from Vitali. The issue is his legacy, if there is to be one.
He must consider the risk:reward; If he beats Dr Ironfist, great, that will add to or maybe even give him legacy.
If he loses, he will be remembered as the man who could not back up his infamous trash-talk, and as the man whose only big heavyweight scalp was Nicolai Valuev, hardly a Hall of Famer.
Although his reputation as one of the finest Cruiserweights remains untarnished, his performances in boxing’s headline division will live long in the memory of many fans.
To me, Haye the heavyweight still has much to prove. So go on David, show us what you are made of and take on Vitali, you owe your fans a better lasting memory than excusing your performance on a broken toe and ultimately failing on the biggest night of your career.
ENDS
The F1 Number One
By Adam Appleton
On 1st May, it will be 18 years since the passing of world-famous driver Ayrton Senna after a fatal crash at Imola.
But many still look back on his era and ask: ‘Was he the greatest driver ever?’
Many answers spring to mind; Ascari, Villeneuve, Clark, Mansell, Piquet, Stewart, Fangio, Brabham and Lauda, and maybe Vettel, Alonso and Hamilton may, someday, join that illustrious pack.
However, three names always seem to emerge as the most legitimate contenders; Alain Prost, Michael Schumacher and Senna himself.
Between 1985 and 2004, they claimed 14 driver’s titles, Schumacher seven, Prost four and Senna three.
For me, Senna and Schumacher emerge over Prost.
Prost won his titles in the best cars, and was nearly always the preferred driver of those teams.
His methodical approach did not draw many supporters either, he did not take gambles and was a poor wet-weather driver.
He also had FISA President Jean-Marie Balestre, a Frenchman, providing several decisions in his favour and against Senna.
But Prost’s lack of grounding in less competitive cars stops him gaining this status, because Senna and Schumacher both made their way up from unfashionable manufacturers.
They also both excelled early in their careers.
Senna scored points in his second and third races in the uncompetitive Toleman car, and then finished second in a rain-filled Monaco Grand Prix, 1984.
Schumacher issued early warnings of his precocious talent, qualifying 7th on debut at Spa, also the setting for his maiden victory in 1992.
The German would drive for Benetton, Ferrari and Mercedes GP, and Senna for Lotus, McLaren and finally Williams.
Both were controversial figures, due to their aggressive styles and exaggerated will to win.
Most of Senna’s incidents involved Prost, the synonymous duo had a rivalry more public than Formula One had ever seen.
They first clashed at the 1989 title-decider at Suzuka. They collided as Senna tried to overtake Prost, Senna managed a push-start and won the race.
However, he was left fuming after being disqualified by Balestre for cutting the chicane to rejoin the race, leaving Prost to take the title.
Further controversy followed at Suzuka the following year.
Senna took pole position ahead of Prost, but believed he was on the “dirty” side of the grid.
Prost looked to have the lead into the first corner, only for Senna to plough into him to win the title.
The incident drew reaction from both drivers, Prost saying: “Ayrton has a problem in that he does not think he can die.”
Senna however, was unrepentant: “If you no longer go for a gap, you are no longer a racing driver… I am not designed to finish 3rd or 4th or 5th.”
Schumacher also had title-related controversies early in his career.
In Adelaide, 1994, Schumacher led Damon Hill by a point.
On lap 36, Schumacher, leading, ran wide critically damaging his car on the wall.
Hill, sensing an opportunity tried to overtake but Schumacher shut the door on him, sending both out of the race, conveniently handing Schumacher the title.
Many believe that Schumacher caused the crash to ensure him and Benetton the championship.
In a near-identical incident at Jerez in 1997, Schumacher – now at Ferrari – turned in on Jacques Villeneuve but could only tap his side-pod, meaning Villeneuve took the title. It also did not stop Schumacher getting an awful press reaction.
When it finally boils down to answering this question, it is not the controversies that separate them, but instead the quality of the era they raced in.
Schumacher’s biggest rivals were Damon Hill, Mika Hakkinen and Fernando Alonso.
These names are incomparable to the men Senna shined against; Alain Prost, Nigel Mansell and Nelson Piquet, all great in their own respect.
This divides the two because whilst Schumacher holds the biggest records; most pole positions (68), most victories (91) and most World Championship (7), a purist like me will always say that Senna was the greatest in the greastest era.
This is perhaps best shown in terms of pole positions, Schumacher’s F1 career has been six seasons and counting longer than Senna’s, but he has only managed three more pole positions.
He was likely the most naturally talented pilot in history and it is difficult pinpoint particular races in Senna’s career because he was incredible in so many.
So whilst the numbers point to the German, the Brazilian had an almost unquantifiable asset to his driving. It may not have been metronomic but, to quote Murray Walker, it was “absolutely sensational!”
ENDS
On 1st May, it will be 18 years since the passing of world-famous driver Ayrton Senna after a fatal crash at Imola.
But many still look back on his era and ask: ‘Was he the greatest driver ever?’
Many answers spring to mind; Ascari, Villeneuve, Clark, Mansell, Piquet, Stewart, Fangio, Brabham and Lauda, and maybe Vettel, Alonso and Hamilton may, someday, join that illustrious pack.
However, three names always seem to emerge as the most legitimate contenders; Alain Prost, Michael Schumacher and Senna himself.
Between 1985 and 2004, they claimed 14 driver’s titles, Schumacher seven, Prost four and Senna three.
For me, Senna and Schumacher emerge over Prost.
Prost won his titles in the best cars, and was nearly always the preferred driver of those teams.
His methodical approach did not draw many supporters either, he did not take gambles and was a poor wet-weather driver.
He also had FISA President Jean-Marie Balestre, a Frenchman, providing several decisions in his favour and against Senna.
But Prost’s lack of grounding in less competitive cars stops him gaining this status, because Senna and Schumacher both made their way up from unfashionable manufacturers.
They also both excelled early in their careers.
Senna scored points in his second and third races in the uncompetitive Toleman car, and then finished second in a rain-filled Monaco Grand Prix, 1984.
Schumacher issued early warnings of his precocious talent, qualifying 7th on debut at Spa, also the setting for his maiden victory in 1992.
The German would drive for Benetton, Ferrari and Mercedes GP, and Senna for Lotus, McLaren and finally Williams.
Both were controversial figures, due to their aggressive styles and exaggerated will to win.
Most of Senna’s incidents involved Prost, the synonymous duo had a rivalry more public than Formula One had ever seen.
They first clashed at the 1989 title-decider at Suzuka. They collided as Senna tried to overtake Prost, Senna managed a push-start and won the race.
However, he was left fuming after being disqualified by Balestre for cutting the chicane to rejoin the race, leaving Prost to take the title.
Further controversy followed at Suzuka the following year.
Senna took pole position ahead of Prost, but believed he was on the “dirty” side of the grid.
Prost looked to have the lead into the first corner, only for Senna to plough into him to win the title.
The incident drew reaction from both drivers, Prost saying: “Ayrton has a problem in that he does not think he can die.”
Senna however, was unrepentant: “If you no longer go for a gap, you are no longer a racing driver… I am not designed to finish 3rd or 4th or 5th.”
Schumacher also had title-related controversies early in his career.
In Adelaide, 1994, Schumacher led Damon Hill by a point.
On lap 36, Schumacher, leading, ran wide critically damaging his car on the wall.
Hill, sensing an opportunity tried to overtake but Schumacher shut the door on him, sending both out of the race, conveniently handing Schumacher the title.
Many believe that Schumacher caused the crash to ensure him and Benetton the championship.
In a near-identical incident at Jerez in 1997, Schumacher – now at Ferrari – turned in on Jacques Villeneuve but could only tap his side-pod, meaning Villeneuve took the title. It also did not stop Schumacher getting an awful press reaction.
When it finally boils down to answering this question, it is not the controversies that separate them, but instead the quality of the era they raced in.
Schumacher’s biggest rivals were Damon Hill, Mika Hakkinen and Fernando Alonso.
These names are incomparable to the men Senna shined against; Alain Prost, Nigel Mansell and Nelson Piquet, all great in their own respect.
This divides the two because whilst Schumacher holds the biggest records; most pole positions (68), most victories (91) and most World Championship (7), a purist like me will always say that Senna was the greatest in the greastest era.
This is perhaps best shown in terms of pole positions, Schumacher’s F1 career has been six seasons and counting longer than Senna’s, but he has only managed three more pole positions.
He was likely the most naturally talented pilot in history and it is difficult pinpoint particular races in Senna’s career because he was incredible in so many.
So whilst the numbers point to the German, the Brazilian had an almost unquantifiable asset to his driving. It may not have been metronomic but, to quote Murray Walker, it was “absolutely sensational!”
ENDS
Time to Pieter out?
By Adam Appleton
Many of England’s batsmen find themselves under serious pressure after poor performances against Pakistan, none more so than Kevin Pietersen.
The three-match series – which has been taking place in the United Arab Emirates due to the current security concerns in Pakistan – has seen Pakistan go 2-0 ahead and take a commanding position in the third match.
Such a result has seen blame fly around, much of which has been squarely aimed at England’s batsmen.
Their numbers so far do not make for good reading, they have managing only 352 and 399 runs overall in the respective matches.
Kevin Pietersen is taking a good brunt of this, not only due to his lack of runs but because of his dismissals on this tour.
In the First Test he incredibly decided to hook Umar Gul whilst still on nought, giving away his wicket as he was caught at deep square leg.
Then in both of his last two innings’, the old fallacy of slow left-arm round-the-wicket bowling has haunted him with Rehman trapping him in front on both occasions.
What worries England fans is that he has not learnt from his mistakes. This weakness has been spoken about for at least two years now, yet he has either not done enough to counter it, or is simply unable to.
Obviously only having mustered 49 runs from 5 innings’ at an average of 9.8 and a top-score of 32 does not stand in his favour.
In fact, there is a favourable chance that these technical failures might be forgiven had he managed 300 runs in the series.
What does stand in his favour is that he is not the only horribly under-performing batsman in the team.
He is also the most senior, therefore the most embedded run-maker that is struggling, meaning he will likely get more chances.
Eoin Morgan and Ian Bell also find themselves under scrutiny, particularly the former as he is the most junior batsman and looks like he is finding the adaptation to Test match cricket difficult.
Indeed Morgan will likely be the first to get dropped even if there are several strugglers simply because he is the most junior.
This may well save Pietersen from further scrutiny as the selectors will not want to get rid of him likely having been the cornerstone of the batting line-up since he burst onto the scene against Australia in the 2005 Ashes.
However, it could also add to the pressure.
As he is this senior figure, many will say that he should start acting and more importantly batting as such.
He does not seem to consider employing a Plan B batting style if he fails to come in and dominate the bowling straight away as has happened too many times recently and will continue to happen if his confidence is low, which it surely will be.
England need more frequent scores from him as he is filling this senior role. If he is scoring runs, the pressure will be off players like Eoin Morgan, enabling them to play a little more freely, the same way Trescothick and Vaughan did for Pietersen in his early days.
This is not the first time that Pietersen has come under the cosh.
Going into the 2010/11 Ashes in Australia, both Pietersen and Cook were under dire pressure to re-prove their worth to the team after both had lean patches in the run-up.
766 runs and an Ashes victory later Cook had shoved the critics words back down their throats.
Pietersen’s own contribution was comparatively quiet, but in a normal series 360 runs at an average of 60 would be a clear warning of form.
But he out-did this with a superb home series against India as England took a 4-0 whitewash and the Number 1 Test Team ranking.
Scoring 533 runs in 6 innings with 2 centuries, Pietersen was leading run-scorer, edging out Ian Bell and Rahul Dravid.
This shows that Pietersen has had form in the past year and perhaps, like the rest of the English batsmen, he has simply struggled to make runs on the wickets in the UAE.
England selectors and fans alike will hope this is the case because it will be a sign of weakness if it comes to the point where Pietersen has to be sacrificed.
Not only is this because there is no like-for-like replacement for him, but because he is such a gifted individual once he is in flow.
He is arguably the most talented batsmen of his generation along with AB De Villiers and Michael Clarke and England need him firing out runs to maintain their Number 1 Test status.
ENDS
Many of England’s batsmen find themselves under serious pressure after poor performances against Pakistan, none more so than Kevin Pietersen.
The three-match series – which has been taking place in the United Arab Emirates due to the current security concerns in Pakistan – has seen Pakistan go 2-0 ahead and take a commanding position in the third match.
Such a result has seen blame fly around, much of which has been squarely aimed at England’s batsmen.
Their numbers so far do not make for good reading, they have managing only 352 and 399 runs overall in the respective matches.
Kevin Pietersen is taking a good brunt of this, not only due to his lack of runs but because of his dismissals on this tour.
In the First Test he incredibly decided to hook Umar Gul whilst still on nought, giving away his wicket as he was caught at deep square leg.
Then in both of his last two innings’, the old fallacy of slow left-arm round-the-wicket bowling has haunted him with Rehman trapping him in front on both occasions.
What worries England fans is that he has not learnt from his mistakes. This weakness has been spoken about for at least two years now, yet he has either not done enough to counter it, or is simply unable to.
Obviously only having mustered 49 runs from 5 innings’ at an average of 9.8 and a top-score of 32 does not stand in his favour.
In fact, there is a favourable chance that these technical failures might be forgiven had he managed 300 runs in the series.
What does stand in his favour is that he is not the only horribly under-performing batsman in the team.
He is also the most senior, therefore the most embedded run-maker that is struggling, meaning he will likely get more chances.
Eoin Morgan and Ian Bell also find themselves under scrutiny, particularly the former as he is the most junior batsman and looks like he is finding the adaptation to Test match cricket difficult.
Indeed Morgan will likely be the first to get dropped even if there are several strugglers simply because he is the most junior.
This may well save Pietersen from further scrutiny as the selectors will not want to get rid of him likely having been the cornerstone of the batting line-up since he burst onto the scene against Australia in the 2005 Ashes.
However, it could also add to the pressure.
As he is this senior figure, many will say that he should start acting and more importantly batting as such.
He does not seem to consider employing a Plan B batting style if he fails to come in and dominate the bowling straight away as has happened too many times recently and will continue to happen if his confidence is low, which it surely will be.
England need more frequent scores from him as he is filling this senior role. If he is scoring runs, the pressure will be off players like Eoin Morgan, enabling them to play a little more freely, the same way Trescothick and Vaughan did for Pietersen in his early days.
This is not the first time that Pietersen has come under the cosh.
Going into the 2010/11 Ashes in Australia, both Pietersen and Cook were under dire pressure to re-prove their worth to the team after both had lean patches in the run-up.
766 runs and an Ashes victory later Cook had shoved the critics words back down their throats.
Pietersen’s own contribution was comparatively quiet, but in a normal series 360 runs at an average of 60 would be a clear warning of form.
But he out-did this with a superb home series against India as England took a 4-0 whitewash and the Number 1 Test Team ranking.
Scoring 533 runs in 6 innings with 2 centuries, Pietersen was leading run-scorer, edging out Ian Bell and Rahul Dravid.
This shows that Pietersen has had form in the past year and perhaps, like the rest of the English batsmen, he has simply struggled to make runs on the wickets in the UAE.
England selectors and fans alike will hope this is the case because it will be a sign of weakness if it comes to the point where Pietersen has to be sacrificed.
Not only is this because there is no like-for-like replacement for him, but because he is such a gifted individual once he is in flow.
He is arguably the most talented batsmen of his generation along with AB De Villiers and Michael Clarke and England need him firing out runs to maintain their Number 1 Test status.
ENDS
Sunday, 16 October 2011
MY TOP 20 ALL-TIME POUND-FOR-POUND BOXER’S!
Over the past 4 years I have become engrossed in the “art” of Pugilism, or Boxing. It has been known as a variant of things down the years, from the Sweet Science to a barbaric practice.
Some people look for heart, guts and determination. Others look for speed both of mind and body, combinations and entertainment. Others still look for grace, defensive prowess and slick counter-punching. In this piece I will be looking to find the best 20 fighters that possessed all over these aspects of their game.
It will not include current boxers as their careers are still on-going and the rises and falls of their records are unfinished. It will be an endeavour to try to judge the fighters’ whole careers and not just the peaks. However, fights seen as ridiculous will be given more lenience, for example; Ali v Holmes and Leonard v Camacho when many said Ali and Leonard were not fit to fight.
So, enough talking, here is what you want, I hope it sparks debate.
20. Jimmy Wilde 152 fights 137 wins (100 by KO) / 4 losses / 2 draws / 8 no contests
19. Joe Frazier 37 fights 32 wins (27 by KO) / 4 losses / 1 draw
18. Roy Jones Jr 62 fights 54 wins (40 by KO) / 8 losses
17. Marcellin Cerdan 117 fights 113 wins (66 by KO) / 4 losses
16. Sandy Saddler 162 fights 144 wins (103 by KO) / 16 losses / 2 draws
15. Harry Greb 298 fights 261 wins (48 by KO) / 19 losses / 18 draws / 6 no contests
14. Gene Tunney 86 fights 81 wins (48 by KO) / 1 loss / 3 draws / 2 no contests
13. Roberto Duran 120 fights 104 wins (69 by KO) / 16 losses
12. Julio Cesar Chavez 115 fights 107 wins (89 by KO) / 6 losses / 2 draws
11. Rocky Marciano 49 fights 49 wins (43 by KO)
10. Lennox Lewis - Heavyweight - 44 fights 41W (32 KO’s) / 2L / 1D
He is probably the most controversial inclusion in the top 10. But in a good era for heavyweight boxing, Lennox Lewis stood top of the pile as undisputed Champion.
He was stripped of the WBA title for not fighting John Ruiz, but held the lineal titles (WBC, IBF and IBO) in two separate periods.
A man who can say he beat everyone he shared a ring with as he avenged his two shock loses to Hasim Rahman and Oliver McCall. His subsequent wins against Rahman, Holyfield and Tyson gave him his legacy.
His two losses called in to question his biggest criticism; a poor chin. Lewis was KO'd in both of his losses, but his strong defence meant that his chin wasn't too frequently tested.
Whether he would have beaten Vitali Klitschko had the Ukrainian not been stopped for a severe cut nobody knows. The only other question was whether he would have been Riddick Bowe if they had thought, but as Bowe dodged the fight it suggests he was scared of Lewis. Whilst these questions may linger, Lewis' superb technique, record and the fact he was never tempted out of retirement like many before him has ensured him a place in my top 10.
9. Tommy Hearns - Various - 67 fights 61W (48 KO’s) / 5L / 1D
The "Hitman" astonishing (and at the time record-setting) five world titles at five weights under the tutelage of Emanuel Steward is held in high reverence. He boxed at Welterweight, Super-Welterweight, Middleweight, Super-Middleweight, Light Heavyweight and Cruiserweight winning belts in all divisions apart from Super-Welter.
He is unfortunate in that he is probably best remembered for losing the two biggest fights of his career; "The Showdown" against Sugar Ray Leonard and "The War" against Marvin Hagler. The latter is one of boxing's most famous matches and it does its name full justice and in the former he was ahead on all cards at the end of the 13th before Leonard KO'd him in the 14th.
He did, however, beat Wilfred Benitez and KO Roberto Duran in two rounds.
At 6ft1, he had unusual dimension to be boxing at welterweight and middleweight and he was often able to utilise his long reach to great effect.
That he won belts at 5 weights within 15 years also shows the longevity of his greatness.
8. Henry Armstrong - Various - 180 fights 149W (101 KO’s) / 21L / 10D
Henry "Homicide Hank" Armstrong was a special boxer in many ways, he remains the only man two have ever held three belts at three weights at the same time. In an era when there was only eight weights to choose from, it is quite some achievement.
He was Featherweight, Lightweight and Welterweight world Champion.
According to many experts, he should been a four weight Champion, but his rematch with Ceferino Garcia - who he had beaten in their first mach before Garcia became Champion - was scored a harsh draw that many thought Armstrong had won.
He managed to successfully defend his Welterweight belt eighteen times, still a record at that weight.
At the age of 31 however, he lost to a 22 year old future world Champion and hall of famer Sugar Ray Robinson in a unanimous decision. This loss marked the end of Armstrong's competitive career and after a few more fights he retired. But by this point he had already set the benchmark for all welterweight boxers before and after him.
7. Marvin Hagler - Middleweight -67 fights 62W (52 KO’s) / 3L / 2D
Marvelous Marvin Hagler was the undisputed Middleweight Champion of the world from 1980 - 1987 and still owns the highest KO% of any Middleweight.
In his 14 year career, he only had one un-avenged defeat to the great Sugar Ray Leonard.
In his most famous fight, "The War" versus Tommy Hearns, he dispatched the Hitman in three of the most aggressive rounds ever seen in boxing. He also defeated the last of the "Four Kings" Roberto Duran in a fifteen round unanimous decision.
Possibly the most interest facet of Hagler was that he was completely ambidextrous and just as good a boxer in a southpaw stance as he was in an orthodox one.
He had to overcome controversy when he was awarded a high-contested draw in his first title fight against Vito "Mosquito" Antuofermo when even referee Mills Lane thought Hagler had won easily.
Many also say that Hagler was robbed in his fight against Leonard as Sugar Ray simply put in a few flashy-looking combinations per round to convince the judges.
However, Hagler's grit, determination and commitment to training and boxing as an art has him in my top 10.
6. Benny Leonard - Lightweight - 217 fights 183W (70 KO’s) / 19L / 11D / 4NC
One of boxing's most articulate fighters, Benny Leonard beat many of his opponents with the words he said and combined them well with the speed of his fists.
He was world Lightweight Champion for seven and a half years, setting a precedent for those that followed him and set many gate receipt records with his popularity.
An adaptable fighter, when tired he would often talk to his opponents, making them think while he recovered himself. He was also renowned for his superb technique and wasn't hit too often in his prime.
He could have become a two-weight Champion when he challenged then Welterweight Champion Jack Britton, he was subsequently disqualified in their match as he hit
He even died in the ring whilst refereeing a bout in 1947, a fitting place for him to go.
5. Sugar Ray Leonard -Various - 40 fights 36W (25KO’s) / 3L / 1D
To many, he was a smaller reincarnation of Muhammad Ali. Sugar Ray does indeed claim that he tried to be like Ali. He is set the precedent for the high purses that fighters like Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao now know as second nature.
The most successful of the "Four Kings", he managed to beat Marvin Hagler, Tommy Hearns and Roberto Duran, though he famously lost to the latter in their first fight. Indeed the trilogy with Duran is a watermark in Leonard's career with Duran quitting in the infamous "No mas" rematch before winning again in their rubber match.
He defeated Tommy Hearns in "The Showdown" with a stunning finish to takeout the Hitman in the 14th after Angelo Dundee warned him: "You're blowing it son!". He was also given a debatable draw in their rematch.
After retiring, he finally granted Hagler a fight in 1986. Leonard boxed his way to a decision that many believe could have gone either way.
After two ill-advised comeback fights against Terry Norris and Hector Camacho in 1991 and 1997 respectively, Leonard finally called it quits on his career. He was a 5 weight champion, at Welterweight, Light-Middleweight, Middleweight, Super-Middleweight and Light-Heavyweight. He only lost a belt once, retiring whilst champion or vacated the title with all the others.
He was the most stylish and talented boxer of his generation and the king in a supreme era of welter/middleweight boxing.
4. Willie Pep - Featherweight -249 fights 229W (65 KO’s) / 11L / 1D
Will o' the Wisp's record speaks for itself; to step to the ring 249 times and fail to win only 12 of those times is truly staggering.
He is another fighter that used his speed, reactions and finesse to out-do his opponents.
He went 62-0 before losing to Sammy Angott, another champion. He reigned as world Featherweight Champion for 6 years (1942-1948) in his first stint before falling at the hands of his biggest nemesis, Sandy Saddler. He beat Saddler in a rematch 6 months later to have another 18 month spell with the title before being once more defeated by Saddler, the only boxer to ever get the upper hand over Pep in some questionably dirty fights.
His career is particularly spectacular as he was severely injured in a plane crash in 1947 but still made it back to the ring.
His skill was such that a legend says he once one a round without throwing a punch, whether it is true, nobody is sure but Willie Pep was definitely that special.
3. Muhammad Ali - Heavyweight - 61 fights 56W (37 KO’s) / 5L
What is there to say about this man that hasn't already been said? Not only one of the greatest boxers ever, but one of the greatest people of his generation. The Louisville Lip transcended the sport when he chose to refuse to go to war, but we're going to concentrate on his boxing.
As a fighter, he beat everyone in a golden Heavyweight era; Liston, Frazier, Foreman, Paterson, Norton and Spinks to name a few victims.
The three-time World Heavyweight Champion is famous for so many things; the "Ali Shuffle", the "Rope-a-Dope" as well as his famed trash talk.
When he beat Sonny Liston at 22, he became the youngest Heavyweight Champion to dethrone another Champion.
The only two fighters to beat him in his prime were Ken Norton and Joe Frazier, both of which he avenged. Indeed with Frazier, Ali shared a memorable trilogy which culminated in the "Thrilla in Manilla" which Ali won by 14th round TKO, after which Ali would claim: "that was the closest I've been to death."
He was beaten by Larry Holmes and Trevor Berbick in fights he should never have fought and for which he was barely healthy.
Parkinson's disease may have slowed him down over time, but no one will ever forget Ali, his legacy will live forever.
2. Joe Louis - Heavyweight - 72 fights 69W (57 KO’s) / 3L / 1NC
The Brown Bomber is best remembered for his record of defending his World Heavyweight Championship belt successfully 25 times. But he was also one of the first nationally popular Black men in American and helped to pave the way for the likes of Muhammad Ali and Sugar Ray Leonard.
He beat Max Baer and giant Primo Carnera before succumbing to a shock lose to Schmelling. In spite of this loss, he fought for the World Title a few fights later and disposed of James Braddock in eight rounds.
This begun his long reign on the throne, beating the German Schmelling in a rematch famous for its political ramifications in 1938, and Jersey Joe Walcott twice before announcing his retirement.
It only lasted 18 months. He had ten more fights, the most notable of which were losses to Ezzard Charles and later Rocky Marciano in his last fight when he was well past his best.
He was famed for his power punching and his humility in the ring. Sportswriter Jimmy Cannon once said of him: "He is a credit to his race - the human race."
1. Sugar Ray Robinson - Various - 200 fights 173W (108 KO’s) / 19L / 6D / 2NC
Simply the best, Ray Robinson was a magician in the ring. "The King, the Master. My Idol." is how Muhammad Ali described him. No praise is high enough for the 5-time Middleweight and 1-time Welterweight Champion.
His style was all about rhythm and timing, he was as fluid a boxer as there ever has been with KO power in both hands and supreme instinct.
He was so good that the pound-for-pound ranking system - where fighters are compared regardless of weight - was created around his brilliance. He defeated such big names as; Kid Gavilan, Jake LaMotta, Rocky Graziano, Carmen Basilio and Gene Fulmer.
He went 85-0 as an amateur before turning pro and enjoying a 26 year career.
He was a flamboyant man and is likely the originator for entourages.
Sugar was the fighter of the decade for the 1950's and is rated as the greatest of all time by Joe Louis, Sugar Ray Leonard and Muhammad Ali.
He is most famous for his six fight series with Jake LaMotta, LaMotta dealt him his first loss but whom Sugar Ray would go on to beat five times.
The only man to get some measure of Robinson was Gene Fulmer who managed 2 wins and a draw over Sugar.
Sugar Ray will always be synonymous with boxing as everyone wants to be the next "Sugar" he is the only one fit to be number one in this list as this quote from Sugar Ray Leonard exemplifies: "Someone once said there was a comparison between Sugar Ray Leonard and Sugar Ray Robinson. There is no comparison. Sugar Ray Robinson was the greatest."
Some people look for heart, guts and determination. Others look for speed both of mind and body, combinations and entertainment. Others still look for grace, defensive prowess and slick counter-punching. In this piece I will be looking to find the best 20 fighters that possessed all over these aspects of their game.
It will not include current boxers as their careers are still on-going and the rises and falls of their records are unfinished. It will be an endeavour to try to judge the fighters’ whole careers and not just the peaks. However, fights seen as ridiculous will be given more lenience, for example; Ali v Holmes and Leonard v Camacho when many said Ali and Leonard were not fit to fight.
So, enough talking, here is what you want, I hope it sparks debate.
20. Jimmy Wilde 152 fights 137 wins (100 by KO) / 4 losses / 2 draws / 8 no contests
19. Joe Frazier 37 fights 32 wins (27 by KO) / 4 losses / 1 draw
18. Roy Jones Jr 62 fights 54 wins (40 by KO) / 8 losses
17. Marcellin Cerdan 117 fights 113 wins (66 by KO) / 4 losses
16. Sandy Saddler 162 fights 144 wins (103 by KO) / 16 losses / 2 draws
15. Harry Greb 298 fights 261 wins (48 by KO) / 19 losses / 18 draws / 6 no contests
14. Gene Tunney 86 fights 81 wins (48 by KO) / 1 loss / 3 draws / 2 no contests
13. Roberto Duran 120 fights 104 wins (69 by KO) / 16 losses
12. Julio Cesar Chavez 115 fights 107 wins (89 by KO) / 6 losses / 2 draws
11. Rocky Marciano 49 fights 49 wins (43 by KO)
10. Lennox Lewis - Heavyweight - 44 fights 41W (32 KO’s) / 2L / 1D
He is probably the most controversial inclusion in the top 10. But in a good era for heavyweight boxing, Lennox Lewis stood top of the pile as undisputed Champion.
He was stripped of the WBA title for not fighting John Ruiz, but held the lineal titles (WBC, IBF and IBO) in two separate periods.
A man who can say he beat everyone he shared a ring with as he avenged his two shock loses to Hasim Rahman and Oliver McCall. His subsequent wins against Rahman, Holyfield and Tyson gave him his legacy.
His two losses called in to question his biggest criticism; a poor chin. Lewis was KO'd in both of his losses, but his strong defence meant that his chin wasn't too frequently tested.
Whether he would have beaten Vitali Klitschko had the Ukrainian not been stopped for a severe cut nobody knows. The only other question was whether he would have been Riddick Bowe if they had thought, but as Bowe dodged the fight it suggests he was scared of Lewis. Whilst these questions may linger, Lewis' superb technique, record and the fact he was never tempted out of retirement like many before him has ensured him a place in my top 10.
9. Tommy Hearns - Various - 67 fights 61W (48 KO’s) / 5L / 1D
The "Hitman" astonishing (and at the time record-setting) five world titles at five weights under the tutelage of Emanuel Steward is held in high reverence. He boxed at Welterweight, Super-Welterweight, Middleweight, Super-Middleweight, Light Heavyweight and Cruiserweight winning belts in all divisions apart from Super-Welter.
He is unfortunate in that he is probably best remembered for losing the two biggest fights of his career; "The Showdown" against Sugar Ray Leonard and "The War" against Marvin Hagler. The latter is one of boxing's most famous matches and it does its name full justice and in the former he was ahead on all cards at the end of the 13th before Leonard KO'd him in the 14th.
He did, however, beat Wilfred Benitez and KO Roberto Duran in two rounds.
At 6ft1, he had unusual dimension to be boxing at welterweight and middleweight and he was often able to utilise his long reach to great effect.
That he won belts at 5 weights within 15 years also shows the longevity of his greatness.
8. Henry Armstrong - Various - 180 fights 149W (101 KO’s) / 21L / 10D
Henry "Homicide Hank" Armstrong was a special boxer in many ways, he remains the only man two have ever held three belts at three weights at the same time. In an era when there was only eight weights to choose from, it is quite some achievement.
He was Featherweight, Lightweight and Welterweight world Champion.
According to many experts, he should been a four weight Champion, but his rematch with Ceferino Garcia - who he had beaten in their first mach before Garcia became Champion - was scored a harsh draw that many thought Armstrong had won.
He managed to successfully defend his Welterweight belt eighteen times, still a record at that weight.
At the age of 31 however, he lost to a 22 year old future world Champion and hall of famer Sugar Ray Robinson in a unanimous decision. This loss marked the end of Armstrong's competitive career and after a few more fights he retired. But by this point he had already set the benchmark for all welterweight boxers before and after him.
7. Marvin Hagler - Middleweight -67 fights 62W (52 KO’s) / 3L / 2D
Marvelous Marvin Hagler was the undisputed Middleweight Champion of the world from 1980 - 1987 and still owns the highest KO% of any Middleweight.
In his 14 year career, he only had one un-avenged defeat to the great Sugar Ray Leonard.
In his most famous fight, "The War" versus Tommy Hearns, he dispatched the Hitman in three of the most aggressive rounds ever seen in boxing. He also defeated the last of the "Four Kings" Roberto Duran in a fifteen round unanimous decision.
Possibly the most interest facet of Hagler was that he was completely ambidextrous and just as good a boxer in a southpaw stance as he was in an orthodox one.
He had to overcome controversy when he was awarded a high-contested draw in his first title fight against Vito "Mosquito" Antuofermo when even referee Mills Lane thought Hagler had won easily.
Many also say that Hagler was robbed in his fight against Leonard as Sugar Ray simply put in a few flashy-looking combinations per round to convince the judges.
However, Hagler's grit, determination and commitment to training and boxing as an art has him in my top 10.
6. Benny Leonard - Lightweight - 217 fights 183W (70 KO’s) / 19L / 11D / 4NC
One of boxing's most articulate fighters, Benny Leonard beat many of his opponents with the words he said and combined them well with the speed of his fists.
He was world Lightweight Champion for seven and a half years, setting a precedent for those that followed him and set many gate receipt records with his popularity.
An adaptable fighter, when tired he would often talk to his opponents, making them think while he recovered himself. He was also renowned for his superb technique and wasn't hit too often in his prime.
He could have become a two-weight Champion when he challenged then Welterweight Champion Jack Britton, he was subsequently disqualified in their match as he hit
He even died in the ring whilst refereeing a bout in 1947, a fitting place for him to go.
5. Sugar Ray Leonard -Various - 40 fights 36W (25KO’s) / 3L / 1D
To many, he was a smaller reincarnation of Muhammad Ali. Sugar Ray does indeed claim that he tried to be like Ali. He is set the precedent for the high purses that fighters like Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao now know as second nature.
The most successful of the "Four Kings", he managed to beat Marvin Hagler, Tommy Hearns and Roberto Duran, though he famously lost to the latter in their first fight. Indeed the trilogy with Duran is a watermark in Leonard's career with Duran quitting in the infamous "No mas" rematch before winning again in their rubber match.
He defeated Tommy Hearns in "The Showdown" with a stunning finish to takeout the Hitman in the 14th after Angelo Dundee warned him: "You're blowing it son!". He was also given a debatable draw in their rematch.
After retiring, he finally granted Hagler a fight in 1986. Leonard boxed his way to a decision that many believe could have gone either way.
After two ill-advised comeback fights against Terry Norris and Hector Camacho in 1991 and 1997 respectively, Leonard finally called it quits on his career. He was a 5 weight champion, at Welterweight, Light-Middleweight, Middleweight, Super-Middleweight and Light-Heavyweight. He only lost a belt once, retiring whilst champion or vacated the title with all the others.
He was the most stylish and talented boxer of his generation and the king in a supreme era of welter/middleweight boxing.
4. Willie Pep - Featherweight -249 fights 229W (65 KO’s) / 11L / 1D
Will o' the Wisp's record speaks for itself; to step to the ring 249 times and fail to win only 12 of those times is truly staggering.
He is another fighter that used his speed, reactions and finesse to out-do his opponents.
He went 62-0 before losing to Sammy Angott, another champion. He reigned as world Featherweight Champion for 6 years (1942-1948) in his first stint before falling at the hands of his biggest nemesis, Sandy Saddler. He beat Saddler in a rematch 6 months later to have another 18 month spell with the title before being once more defeated by Saddler, the only boxer to ever get the upper hand over Pep in some questionably dirty fights.
His career is particularly spectacular as he was severely injured in a plane crash in 1947 but still made it back to the ring.
His skill was such that a legend says he once one a round without throwing a punch, whether it is true, nobody is sure but Willie Pep was definitely that special.
3. Muhammad Ali - Heavyweight - 61 fights 56W (37 KO’s) / 5L
What is there to say about this man that hasn't already been said? Not only one of the greatest boxers ever, but one of the greatest people of his generation. The Louisville Lip transcended the sport when he chose to refuse to go to war, but we're going to concentrate on his boxing.
As a fighter, he beat everyone in a golden Heavyweight era; Liston, Frazier, Foreman, Paterson, Norton and Spinks to name a few victims.
The three-time World Heavyweight Champion is famous for so many things; the "Ali Shuffle", the "Rope-a-Dope" as well as his famed trash talk.
When he beat Sonny Liston at 22, he became the youngest Heavyweight Champion to dethrone another Champion.
The only two fighters to beat him in his prime were Ken Norton and Joe Frazier, both of which he avenged. Indeed with Frazier, Ali shared a memorable trilogy which culminated in the "Thrilla in Manilla" which Ali won by 14th round TKO, after which Ali would claim: "that was the closest I've been to death."
He was beaten by Larry Holmes and Trevor Berbick in fights he should never have fought and for which he was barely healthy.
Parkinson's disease may have slowed him down over time, but no one will ever forget Ali, his legacy will live forever.
2. Joe Louis - Heavyweight - 72 fights 69W (57 KO’s) / 3L / 1NC
The Brown Bomber is best remembered for his record of defending his World Heavyweight Championship belt successfully 25 times. But he was also one of the first nationally popular Black men in American and helped to pave the way for the likes of Muhammad Ali and Sugar Ray Leonard.
He beat Max Baer and giant Primo Carnera before succumbing to a shock lose to Schmelling. In spite of this loss, he fought for the World Title a few fights later and disposed of James Braddock in eight rounds.
This begun his long reign on the throne, beating the German Schmelling in a rematch famous for its political ramifications in 1938, and Jersey Joe Walcott twice before announcing his retirement.
It only lasted 18 months. He had ten more fights, the most notable of which were losses to Ezzard Charles and later Rocky Marciano in his last fight when he was well past his best.
He was famed for his power punching and his humility in the ring. Sportswriter Jimmy Cannon once said of him: "He is a credit to his race - the human race."
1. Sugar Ray Robinson - Various - 200 fights 173W (108 KO’s) / 19L / 6D / 2NC
Simply the best, Ray Robinson was a magician in the ring. "The King, the Master. My Idol." is how Muhammad Ali described him. No praise is high enough for the 5-time Middleweight and 1-time Welterweight Champion.
His style was all about rhythm and timing, he was as fluid a boxer as there ever has been with KO power in both hands and supreme instinct.
He was so good that the pound-for-pound ranking system - where fighters are compared regardless of weight - was created around his brilliance. He defeated such big names as; Kid Gavilan, Jake LaMotta, Rocky Graziano, Carmen Basilio and Gene Fulmer.
He went 85-0 as an amateur before turning pro and enjoying a 26 year career.
He was a flamboyant man and is likely the originator for entourages.
Sugar was the fighter of the decade for the 1950's and is rated as the greatest of all time by Joe Louis, Sugar Ray Leonard and Muhammad Ali.
He is most famous for his six fight series with Jake LaMotta, LaMotta dealt him his first loss but whom Sugar Ray would go on to beat five times.
The only man to get some measure of Robinson was Gene Fulmer who managed 2 wins and a draw over Sugar.
Sugar Ray will always be synonymous with boxing as everyone wants to be the next "Sugar" he is the only one fit to be number one in this list as this quote from Sugar Ray Leonard exemplifies: "Someone once said there was a comparison between Sugar Ray Leonard and Sugar Ray Robinson. There is no comparison. Sugar Ray Robinson was the greatest."
Friday, 26 August 2011
Premier League Round-up Week 2, 2011-12
Feature Matches
Sunderland v Newcastle
Arsenal v Liverpool
Aston Villa v Blackburn
Man City v Bolton
Man Utd v Tottenham
TAYLOR-MADE VICTORY FOR MAGPIES ON DERBY DAY!
Sunderland 0 - 1 Newcastle
Taylor 62'
The Tyne-Wear Derby is the biggest in the North-East of England, a massive rivalry that has produced some high quality matches down the years with the likes of Quinn, Shearer and Phillips often headlining.
This game however, was not such a quality occasion with chances few and far between. Fortunately the derby day tension was still there, so there was no quarter given by either team.
Newcastle should have had a stone-wall penalty in the first half after Seb Larsson saved Joey Barton's point blanc header with his arm just before the ball crossed the line. Luckily for Larsson, neither the referee, nor his assistant spotted the misdemeanour, and him and his team got away with the incident, leaving Newcastle incensed and feeling hard done by.
The game carried on, with the midfields battling hard to gain sustained pressure and possession without much success. Gyan went closest yet with a great effort from 25 yards with his left foot, which dipped to graze the bar on it's way through with Krul beaten.
The opening goal, and winner, came just after the hour mark when the Magpies got a free kick on the left flank. Ryan Taylor stood over the ball and put in what looked like a half cross, half shot. The ball sailed across goal, evading everyone in the box, to nestle neatly into the far corner, sending the home fans into pandemonium.
Newcastle held out to keep their second clean sheet of the season and second favourable result. Sunderland though, will be dissappointed that they managed to take a point away from Anfield, but had no such luck at St James'.
DEVASTATED GUNNERS LOSE MORE GROUND!
Arsenal 0 - 2 Liverpool
Ramsey OG 78'
Suarez 90'
Arsenal fans journeyed to the Emirates in the hope that their team would banish the ghost of Cesc Fabregas' departure with a victory of Liverpool. What a got was not far short of a shambles.
The rain pelted down in North London, conditions which fitted in perfectly with the emotions surrounding Arsenal.
In spite of his near-certain imminent transfer to Man City, Samir Nasri started as Jenkinson and Frimpong made their debuts. Luis Suarez was benched after showing fatigue.
The first twenty minutes came without chances, the first such attempt resulted in a save from Szcesny as Andy Carroll powered a header.
Emanuel Frimpong made a surging start with a drive through the midfield and rifling off a shot from 25 yards that Reina was forced to palm round the post. Indeed the rookie made a good start, one that was unfortunately marred by his 2nd yellow card in the 70th minute after a poor tackle as Wenger labelled him "the victim of his own passion".
The game then only started to hot up again after the hour mark. Robin Van Persie's close range effort required a good save from Pepe Reina.
Then, with 78 minutes on the clock, Arsenal's luck showed foul once more. Substitue Miquel was attempting to clear the ball, but only managed to hit Ramsey in the face as the ball ricocheted over Szcesny and into the goal.
Then as injury time began, the Arsenal defenders backed off the oncoming Liverpool players as the ball was slipped to Meireles. Meireles then squared to Suarez who was able to slide the ball in.
Despite of the criticism against the Arsenal boss after another questionable result, Kenny Dalglish gallantly stated, "no one can take away what Arsene Wenger has done for this football club". This may be true, but will the football club soon has to take away what Wenger wants to do in the future?
VILLA RUN RIOT TO SEND ROVERS BOTTOM!
Aston Villa 3 - 1 Blackburn
Agbonlahor 12' Pedersen 52'
Heskey 25'
Bent 67'
Villa were the picture of unity following this dominant victory. So far maligned boss Alex McLeish was in charge of his first home game at Villa Park. "We believe in the manager" were Darren Bent's words following this victory. It must be a much better environment after the unfortunately sequence of events that unfolded during Gerard Houllier's tenure.
Proceedings started early on as Gabby Agbonlahor put his team in the lead with a outstanding effort. He jinked one way, then another to put Salgado off-balance down Villa's left flank. He then cut in and let fly with a curling effort that evaded Paul Robinson's outstretched arms to settle in the back of the net after 12 minutes.
New Blackburn signing Goodwillie had his first chance at glory soon after, but he could only spurn it by blasting it just over the bar from a tough angle. Down the other end, Agbonlahor was at it again, cutting in once more to hit another swerving shot. This time however, Robinson managed to cling onto the ball with a flying catch.
Villa were not kept waiting much longer though, a ball into Agbonlahor saw him with his back to goal, and a defender behind him. He squared to an on-coming Emile Heskey who was able to slide the ball round a defender, and more importantly round Robinson to find the net for the first time this season.
The Yorshire side then got an excellent goal back when Junior Hoilett used his quick feet to beat three men wide on the left. He then hit a beautifully flighted cross which was met by the on-rushing Morten Gamst Pedersen and past a helpless Given to get the second half of to a good tempo.
With half an hour to go, Albrighton rifled off a cross goal effort that went narrowly wide of goal from 25 yards. Then five minutes later, Darren Bent pounced on a poor clearance to squeeze a shot of that past Robinson for a typical goal from the Londoner.
Villa sealed the points with some good defending in the last 20 minutes. It was a strong showing from the Clarets, far better than they were this time last year, and they will hope to continue this.
Blackburn on the other hand are now the lowest of all the teams that have played two games.
RANGERS ADD TO EVERTON WOES AT GOODISON!
Everton 0 - 1 QPR
Smith 31'
On the half hour, Buszaky rolls Tommy Smith in after Jagielka mis-cleared the ball to him. Smith expertly turns and curls the ball into the far corner as Jagielka fails to stop him.
WIGAN DENIED BY ANOTHER VORM SPECIAL!
Swansea 0 - 0 Wigan
20 minutes from time, Gomez rattles the crossbar with a great dipping shot.
3 minutes later Moses clatters the bar at the same end. This is followed by Gomez being brought down by Williams. Watson steps up to take the penalty, but is saved expertly by Vorm.
CHELS DO IT THE HARD WAY!
Chelsea 2 - 1 West Brom
Anelka 53' Long 4'
Malouda 83'
Alex is bullied off the ball fairly softly by Shane Long, who then beats him for pace and slips past Hilario to put the Midlands team 1 - 0 up early on.
Anelka equalises early into the second half moments after Lampard is denied a penalty. He shoots across goal and the ball deflects into the far corner of Olsson.
Chelsea then began to apply the pressure on the Brom back-line. This pressure finally told when Malouda completed the turn around in an almost identical match to West Brom's previous game against Utd. Bosingwa crosses into back post where Malouda is ready and waiting for a tap in.
This result gave Chelsea the much-vaunted three points they were wanting after Stoke denied them so keenly the week before. For West Brom, they must be the league's unluckiest team so far. They went ahead against Utd and lost and then again to Chelsea and ended up losing there too. They are playing good football and should keep doing what they are doing as it will reward them against the lesser teams as the season goes on.
JONES RESCUES POTTERS WITH A BIT OF MAGIC!
Norwich 1 - 1 Stoke
DeLaet 36' K. Jones 90+1'
Ritchie DeLaet hooked onto a great delivery from a wide free-kick with a glancing header that got Norwich into the lead.
Barnett was sent off on the hour for a last man tackle that also conceded a penalty. Walters failed to convert the following spot-kick.
Whelan put in a great cross in injury that Kenwyne Jones rose to head home, saving Stoke a point.
WOLVES KEEP UP 100% RECORD!
Wolves 2 - 0 Fulham
Doyle 42'
Jarvis 43'
Doyle collected a pass from Matt Jarvis, before letting fly to beat Mark Schwarzer.
Jarvis doubled the lead minutes later, pouncing on a header from Johnson that hit the crossbar.
CITY COME OUT ON TOP IN FIVE GOAL THRILLER!
Man City 3 - 2 Bolton
Silva 26' Klasnic 40'
Barry 38' Davies 63'
Dzeko 47'
This fixture bought a clash between the top two teams in the Premier League after the first weekend. Both had put four goals past their opponents without reply, and had looked impressive doing so.
In spite of this, the first ten minutes of the game was spent getting into the rhythm of the game by both teams. Eagles and Knight went close early doors, Eagles with a testing, low free kick and then Knight tapping narrowly wide from a corner. Indeed, Bolton's corners were where they looked most dangerous in the opening part of the match. They were constantly pressuring the City defence with well directly balls in.
After fifteen minutes, the tide began to change. Jussi Jaaskelainen was forced into his first big save from James Milner as he met Kolarov's cross with a tough effort. Three minutes later, Aguero missed a sitter from 8 yards as he ploughed the ball over the bar.
The pressure soon told, just shy of the half hour mark as Man of the Match, David Silva cut into the box after a pass from Micah Richards and then hit a low, swerving shot past Jaaskelainen from the edge of the box to put his team ahead.
Richards then got a goal disallowed as his cross fed Aguero's tap-in finish as he had barged Petrov just before crossing.
By this point, City were thoroughly dominating both play and possession. Aguero missed another chance with his head. Then came a second magic moment for City. James Milner hit a variation corner out to Gareth Barry, who was 25 yards out. Barry got the ball out of his feet and hit an arrow of a shot with his left foot in the the top corner to double City's advantage.
Bolton threw themselves a lifeline when Klasnic hit a beautifully executed half-volley from a Petrov cross with his left foot on the twirl.
City soon got the upper hand once again, two minutes into the second half, they were 3 - 1 up as Dzeko capitalised on Paul Robinson's mistake to break clear and hit a well timed effort underneath the Finish keeper.
Kevin Davies scored what was to be the last goal with half an hour left on the clock with a superb jump to outleap Lescott to head home from a free kick. David Silva was narrowly stopped from scoring again thanks to a brilliant block from Zat Knight as the Spaniard was almost clean through.
The game had been going at such a furious tempo, that for such an early game in the season, players were beginning to tire, City's men in particular as they struggled and strained to keep the Bolton offenses at bay. That said, Adam Johnson almost scored 5 minutes from time, when he sold Zat Knight, only to dribble the ball just wide of the target.
But when the game was all said and done, City managed to get the result and the three points with it to take them top of the table. They may have looked slightly defensively frail at times, but another fluorescent performance from David Silva guided them to victory.
UNITED RAMPANT TO RE-INTRODUCE SPURS!
Man Utd 3 - 0 Tottenham
Welbeck 61'
Anderson 76'
Rooney 87'
A big game early is the season for United, Tottenham presented a big hurdle coming up to Manchester. Having been postponed last week, this was Spurs' first game of the season and it was always going to be a tough ask.
The first half was fairly even with both sides coming close at times, but struggling most with a quality final ball to find a goal. Friedel was forced into several good saves from Cleverley and Young. Young went closest with a floating header after a great chipped ball in from Rooney.
United really began to turn the screw as the second half went it's course. Young, Anderson and Rooney all had the American goalkeeper stretching to make fine saves to keep Tottenham level.
He could not however, keep them out forever as United's youngsters combined brilliantly for the opener. Cleverley whipped in a fantastic cross which Welbeck was able to guide into the far corner excellently with his head.
This opened the gate somewhat for the Red's as they soon applied more and more pressure on the Tottenham backline. Friedel produced his best save of the match to keep out an in-direct Rooney free kick with superb flexiblity at his near post.
The build up for United's second goal was almost mesmeric. Rooney played the ball to Welbeck, whose amazing vision saw him backheel to a running Anderson who creamed the ball into the corner.
The trio was rounded off nicely when Giggs put in a lovely floating cross for Rooney to have an easy header to give him his second goal in as many games to guide his team to a nigh on flawless win.
MY TEAM OF THE WEEK;
GK - Vorm (Swansea), RB - Bosingwa (Chelsea), LB - Assou-Ekotto (Tottenham), CB - Carragher (Liverpool), CB - Smalling (Man Utd), RM - Young (Man Utd), LM - Agbonlahor (Aston Villa), CM - Nasri (Arsenal), CM - Silva (Man City), CF - Welbeck (Man Utd), CF - Rooney (Man Utd).
Sunderland v Newcastle
Arsenal v Liverpool
Aston Villa v Blackburn
Man City v Bolton
Man Utd v Tottenham
TAYLOR-MADE VICTORY FOR MAGPIES ON DERBY DAY!
Sunderland 0 - 1 Newcastle
Taylor 62'
The Tyne-Wear Derby is the biggest in the North-East of England, a massive rivalry that has produced some high quality matches down the years with the likes of Quinn, Shearer and Phillips often headlining.
This game however, was not such a quality occasion with chances few and far between. Fortunately the derby day tension was still there, so there was no quarter given by either team.
Newcastle should have had a stone-wall penalty in the first half after Seb Larsson saved Joey Barton's point blanc header with his arm just before the ball crossed the line. Luckily for Larsson, neither the referee, nor his assistant spotted the misdemeanour, and him and his team got away with the incident, leaving Newcastle incensed and feeling hard done by.
The game carried on, with the midfields battling hard to gain sustained pressure and possession without much success. Gyan went closest yet with a great effort from 25 yards with his left foot, which dipped to graze the bar on it's way through with Krul beaten.
The opening goal, and winner, came just after the hour mark when the Magpies got a free kick on the left flank. Ryan Taylor stood over the ball and put in what looked like a half cross, half shot. The ball sailed across goal, evading everyone in the box, to nestle neatly into the far corner, sending the home fans into pandemonium.
Newcastle held out to keep their second clean sheet of the season and second favourable result. Sunderland though, will be dissappointed that they managed to take a point away from Anfield, but had no such luck at St James'.
DEVASTATED GUNNERS LOSE MORE GROUND!
Arsenal 0 - 2 Liverpool
Ramsey OG 78'
Suarez 90'
Arsenal fans journeyed to the Emirates in the hope that their team would banish the ghost of Cesc Fabregas' departure with a victory of Liverpool. What a got was not far short of a shambles.
The rain pelted down in North London, conditions which fitted in perfectly with the emotions surrounding Arsenal.
In spite of his near-certain imminent transfer to Man City, Samir Nasri started as Jenkinson and Frimpong made their debuts. Luis Suarez was benched after showing fatigue.
The first twenty minutes came without chances, the first such attempt resulted in a save from Szcesny as Andy Carroll powered a header.
Emanuel Frimpong made a surging start with a drive through the midfield and rifling off a shot from 25 yards that Reina was forced to palm round the post. Indeed the rookie made a good start, one that was unfortunately marred by his 2nd yellow card in the 70th minute after a poor tackle as Wenger labelled him "the victim of his own passion".
The game then only started to hot up again after the hour mark. Robin Van Persie's close range effort required a good save from Pepe Reina.
Then, with 78 minutes on the clock, Arsenal's luck showed foul once more. Substitue Miquel was attempting to clear the ball, but only managed to hit Ramsey in the face as the ball ricocheted over Szcesny and into the goal.
Then as injury time began, the Arsenal defenders backed off the oncoming Liverpool players as the ball was slipped to Meireles. Meireles then squared to Suarez who was able to slide the ball in.
Despite of the criticism against the Arsenal boss after another questionable result, Kenny Dalglish gallantly stated, "no one can take away what Arsene Wenger has done for this football club". This may be true, but will the football club soon has to take away what Wenger wants to do in the future?
VILLA RUN RIOT TO SEND ROVERS BOTTOM!
Aston Villa 3 - 1 Blackburn
Agbonlahor 12' Pedersen 52'
Heskey 25'
Bent 67'
Villa were the picture of unity following this dominant victory. So far maligned boss Alex McLeish was in charge of his first home game at Villa Park. "We believe in the manager" were Darren Bent's words following this victory. It must be a much better environment after the unfortunately sequence of events that unfolded during Gerard Houllier's tenure.
Proceedings started early on as Gabby Agbonlahor put his team in the lead with a outstanding effort. He jinked one way, then another to put Salgado off-balance down Villa's left flank. He then cut in and let fly with a curling effort that evaded Paul Robinson's outstretched arms to settle in the back of the net after 12 minutes.
New Blackburn signing Goodwillie had his first chance at glory soon after, but he could only spurn it by blasting it just over the bar from a tough angle. Down the other end, Agbonlahor was at it again, cutting in once more to hit another swerving shot. This time however, Robinson managed to cling onto the ball with a flying catch.
Villa were not kept waiting much longer though, a ball into Agbonlahor saw him with his back to goal, and a defender behind him. He squared to an on-coming Emile Heskey who was able to slide the ball round a defender, and more importantly round Robinson to find the net for the first time this season.
The Yorshire side then got an excellent goal back when Junior Hoilett used his quick feet to beat three men wide on the left. He then hit a beautifully flighted cross which was met by the on-rushing Morten Gamst Pedersen and past a helpless Given to get the second half of to a good tempo.
With half an hour to go, Albrighton rifled off a cross goal effort that went narrowly wide of goal from 25 yards. Then five minutes later, Darren Bent pounced on a poor clearance to squeeze a shot of that past Robinson for a typical goal from the Londoner.
Villa sealed the points with some good defending in the last 20 minutes. It was a strong showing from the Clarets, far better than they were this time last year, and they will hope to continue this.
Blackburn on the other hand are now the lowest of all the teams that have played two games.
RANGERS ADD TO EVERTON WOES AT GOODISON!
Everton 0 - 1 QPR
Smith 31'
On the half hour, Buszaky rolls Tommy Smith in after Jagielka mis-cleared the ball to him. Smith expertly turns and curls the ball into the far corner as Jagielka fails to stop him.
WIGAN DENIED BY ANOTHER VORM SPECIAL!
Swansea 0 - 0 Wigan
20 minutes from time, Gomez rattles the crossbar with a great dipping shot.
3 minutes later Moses clatters the bar at the same end. This is followed by Gomez being brought down by Williams. Watson steps up to take the penalty, but is saved expertly by Vorm.
CHELS DO IT THE HARD WAY!
Chelsea 2 - 1 West Brom
Anelka 53' Long 4'
Malouda 83'
Alex is bullied off the ball fairly softly by Shane Long, who then beats him for pace and slips past Hilario to put the Midlands team 1 - 0 up early on.
Anelka equalises early into the second half moments after Lampard is denied a penalty. He shoots across goal and the ball deflects into the far corner of Olsson.
Chelsea then began to apply the pressure on the Brom back-line. This pressure finally told when Malouda completed the turn around in an almost identical match to West Brom's previous game against Utd. Bosingwa crosses into back post where Malouda is ready and waiting for a tap in.
This result gave Chelsea the much-vaunted three points they were wanting after Stoke denied them so keenly the week before. For West Brom, they must be the league's unluckiest team so far. They went ahead against Utd and lost and then again to Chelsea and ended up losing there too. They are playing good football and should keep doing what they are doing as it will reward them against the lesser teams as the season goes on.
JONES RESCUES POTTERS WITH A BIT OF MAGIC!
Norwich 1 - 1 Stoke
DeLaet 36' K. Jones 90+1'
Ritchie DeLaet hooked onto a great delivery from a wide free-kick with a glancing header that got Norwich into the lead.
Barnett was sent off on the hour for a last man tackle that also conceded a penalty. Walters failed to convert the following spot-kick.
Whelan put in a great cross in injury that Kenwyne Jones rose to head home, saving Stoke a point.
WOLVES KEEP UP 100% RECORD!
Wolves 2 - 0 Fulham
Doyle 42'
Jarvis 43'
Doyle collected a pass from Matt Jarvis, before letting fly to beat Mark Schwarzer.
Jarvis doubled the lead minutes later, pouncing on a header from Johnson that hit the crossbar.
CITY COME OUT ON TOP IN FIVE GOAL THRILLER!
Man City 3 - 2 Bolton
Silva 26' Klasnic 40'
Barry 38' Davies 63'
Dzeko 47'
This fixture bought a clash between the top two teams in the Premier League after the first weekend. Both had put four goals past their opponents without reply, and had looked impressive doing so.
In spite of this, the first ten minutes of the game was spent getting into the rhythm of the game by both teams. Eagles and Knight went close early doors, Eagles with a testing, low free kick and then Knight tapping narrowly wide from a corner. Indeed, Bolton's corners were where they looked most dangerous in the opening part of the match. They were constantly pressuring the City defence with well directly balls in.
After fifteen minutes, the tide began to change. Jussi Jaaskelainen was forced into his first big save from James Milner as he met Kolarov's cross with a tough effort. Three minutes later, Aguero missed a sitter from 8 yards as he ploughed the ball over the bar.
The pressure soon told, just shy of the half hour mark as Man of the Match, David Silva cut into the box after a pass from Micah Richards and then hit a low, swerving shot past Jaaskelainen from the edge of the box to put his team ahead.
Richards then got a goal disallowed as his cross fed Aguero's tap-in finish as he had barged Petrov just before crossing.
By this point, City were thoroughly dominating both play and possession. Aguero missed another chance with his head. Then came a second magic moment for City. James Milner hit a variation corner out to Gareth Barry, who was 25 yards out. Barry got the ball out of his feet and hit an arrow of a shot with his left foot in the the top corner to double City's advantage.
Bolton threw themselves a lifeline when Klasnic hit a beautifully executed half-volley from a Petrov cross with his left foot on the twirl.
City soon got the upper hand once again, two minutes into the second half, they were 3 - 1 up as Dzeko capitalised on Paul Robinson's mistake to break clear and hit a well timed effort underneath the Finish keeper.
Kevin Davies scored what was to be the last goal with half an hour left on the clock with a superb jump to outleap Lescott to head home from a free kick. David Silva was narrowly stopped from scoring again thanks to a brilliant block from Zat Knight as the Spaniard was almost clean through.
The game had been going at such a furious tempo, that for such an early game in the season, players were beginning to tire, City's men in particular as they struggled and strained to keep the Bolton offenses at bay. That said, Adam Johnson almost scored 5 minutes from time, when he sold Zat Knight, only to dribble the ball just wide of the target.
But when the game was all said and done, City managed to get the result and the three points with it to take them top of the table. They may have looked slightly defensively frail at times, but another fluorescent performance from David Silva guided them to victory.
UNITED RAMPANT TO RE-INTRODUCE SPURS!
Man Utd 3 - 0 Tottenham
Welbeck 61'
Anderson 76'
Rooney 87'
A big game early is the season for United, Tottenham presented a big hurdle coming up to Manchester. Having been postponed last week, this was Spurs' first game of the season and it was always going to be a tough ask.
The first half was fairly even with both sides coming close at times, but struggling most with a quality final ball to find a goal. Friedel was forced into several good saves from Cleverley and Young. Young went closest with a floating header after a great chipped ball in from Rooney.
United really began to turn the screw as the second half went it's course. Young, Anderson and Rooney all had the American goalkeeper stretching to make fine saves to keep Tottenham level.
He could not however, keep them out forever as United's youngsters combined brilliantly for the opener. Cleverley whipped in a fantastic cross which Welbeck was able to guide into the far corner excellently with his head.
This opened the gate somewhat for the Red's as they soon applied more and more pressure on the Tottenham backline. Friedel produced his best save of the match to keep out an in-direct Rooney free kick with superb flexiblity at his near post.
The build up for United's second goal was almost mesmeric. Rooney played the ball to Welbeck, whose amazing vision saw him backheel to a running Anderson who creamed the ball into the corner.
The trio was rounded off nicely when Giggs put in a lovely floating cross for Rooney to have an easy header to give him his second goal in as many games to guide his team to a nigh on flawless win.
MY TEAM OF THE WEEK;
GK - Vorm (Swansea), RB - Bosingwa (Chelsea), LB - Assou-Ekotto (Tottenham), CB - Carragher (Liverpool), CB - Smalling (Man Utd), RM - Young (Man Utd), LM - Agbonlahor (Aston Villa), CM - Nasri (Arsenal), CM - Silva (Man City), CF - Welbeck (Man Utd), CF - Rooney (Man Utd).
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