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By Cliff Rold

We’re days away from the biggest fight in boxing in almost five years: Oscar de la Hoya (38-4, 30 KO) versus Floyd Mayweather (37-0, 23 KO). How big is this fight? Oscar finally made the cover of SI. ESPN the Magazine went with a Floyd cover. Even Time Magazine did a feature on it. It didn’t make the cover, leaving the two combatants still a hair behind Gerry Cooney in cultural relevance…but given the general interest in boxing in 2007 it’s still pretty damn good.

Over the last six months, boxing fans have heard or read about every conceivable angle this fight can be analyzed from: its place among superfights, the family dramas, the trash talk and the fear that it will devolve into a colossal bore. All covered. This is my second look at the fight and I’m most concerned with separating the real historical aspects of the fight from the Penn and Teller of it all.

My first examination of the bout looked at it from the perspective of its place amongst battles between former U.S. Olympic medalists (at http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&id=8280).

With the countdown near complete, it’s time to address the points between hype and history that have been glaring in all the buildup.

Ask the fighters and their respective cadres of yes men and you’ll hear “Oscar is a six-division ‘world’ champion” and “Floyd is going for the ‘world’ title in his fifth division.” This is great for hype but cause for serious hiccups if you care about boxing history. For instance, the title on the line this Saturday is far short of a true World title. It’s a WBC belt on the line, but the legitimate throne of the division remains vacant in the wake of Winky Wright’s move to 160 lbs. There are some very good beltholders; none has emerged the champ. At best, the superfight gives us the leading contender to wear the crown.

In legitimate terms, each has been the true World champion of three weight divisions; everything on top of that is nothing more than a series of leather straps representing sanctioning fees paid. How can one be sure of such a thing? For that matter, how true are the assertions that a valley exists between the two, in favor of Oscar, as regards their respective levels of career competition? Simple enough really…just take a close look at each of these noted division-hoppers, in each division they sought to conquer. In the beginning, there was…

130 Pounds

Titles: Mayweather (World Champion 1998-2002); De la Hoya (WBO belt 1994)
Notable Foes: Mayweather (Genaro Hernandez, Angel Manfredy, Diego Corrales, Jesus Chavez). De La Hoya (None…or Jimmi Bredahl)
Advantage: Mayweather

Each won their first titles at junior lightweight but their legacies at the weight are markedly different. De la Hoya’s venture into the 130 lb. domain was short lived; he weighed below or at the limit only twice in his 42 fights, once to win the WBO belt against Jimmi Bredahl and once in defense against an overmatched Giorgio Campanella. Only eleven fights into his career, De la Hoya wasn’t brought near the area code of the division’s best fighters (i.e. Azumah Nelson) and rightly so given the star that was being built. 130 lbs. is almost irrelevant in examining Oscar as was the belt he won there.

The same can not be said for Mayweather. For those who feel he is the best fighter in the world, today and of this era, the argument is largely made on what he got done at 130. A case can be made that “Pretty Boy” Floyd was the greatest champion ever at a weight that once hosted Sandy Saddler, Alexis Arguello and Julio Cesar Chavez. He won the legitimate lineal World title in his 18th bout against Genaro Hernandez in 1998, holding the crown for over three years and through eight title defenses. Among his victims was future World lightweight king Diego Corrales via 10th round stoppage in what may have been the most dominant performance in any sport over the last ten years.

135 Pounds

Titles: Mayweather (World Champion 2002-2004); De la Hoya (WBO 1994-95, IBF 1995)
Notable Foes: Mayweather (Jose Luis Castillo). De la Hoya (Jorge Paez, John-John Molina, Rafael Ruelas, Genaro Hernandez, Jesse James Leija)
Advantage: Push

Floyd has the best win at 135 and a reign as its real World champion; Oscar fell just short of total recognition as champ but the depth of his opponents was impressive. Floyd moved to the division in 2002 to face a rugged Jose Luis Castillo. The Mexican had picked up wins over the near-great Stevie Johnston and fellow countryman Cesar Bazan but was a decided underdog. After the fight, many thought he was the victim of a bad decision. Ring Magazine recognized it as a battle for the vacant crown and they were correct. Castillo and Mayweather were that much better than the rest of the field. Mayweather left no doubts in a rematch victory but then chose average opposition for his second and third title defenses in 2003 (Victoriano Sosa, Phillip N’Dou). It was the beginning of a three year run of lesser foes for Floyd, made all the worse at 135 by a refusal to face the still-game Johnston.

De la Hoya’s mark at 135 was made almost entirely during a 1995 run that may have been the best of his career. He never clearly defined himself as the king of the class though. To say he did would be to ignore Orzubek Nazarov, a veteran alphabet titlist who would have pushed the then still-developing Golden Boy to the brink. A 1994 win over old featherweight entertainer Jorge Paez set the table for a marvelous run that saw Oscar win a nip-tuck war with Molina; devastate the well regarded Ruelas in two; force the undefeated Hernandez to quit in six; and obliterate the otherwise reliable Leija in two. None are the Hall of Fame force Castillo turned out to be but to so clearly master four world class foes (in a row) can not be dismissed.

140 Pounds

Titles: Mayweather (WBC belt 2005); De la Hoya (World Champion 1996-97)
Notable Foes: Mayweather (DeMarcus Corley, Arturo Gatti). De la Hoya (Julio Cesar Chavez, Miguel Angel Gonzalez)
Advantage: De La Hoya

The competitive drought mentioned above for Mayweather was in full effect during his run at 140. A case can be made that Floyd’s run at 140 was about building his cache and the bridge to Oscar but that doesn’t change what fans were forced to sit through. It may be true that Gatti and Corley were both legitimate top ten contenders, but Mayweather (for various business reasons) being unable to get fights with the divisions true World champion (first Kostya Tszyu and then Ricky Hatton) makes this division forgettable to his legacy. Oh, and he found time to fight Henry Bruseles. Ricky Frazier was retired I guess.

Oscar’s foes were on par with his run at 135. It can be argued that this may have been his best weight; had he stayed around awhile he might rate with Aaron Pryor and Barney Ross in the pantheon of great junior welterweights. That didn’t happen and he does not. Regardless, this is where Oscar would pick up his first real World title. Chavez was a two-time lineal World champion when Oscar scored a fourth-round stoppage on cuts that carried him across the threshold from star to mega-star. He followed it up with a wide decision win over Gonzalez, a former WBC titlist at 135 lbs. who had made ten defenses. Wins over Frankie Randall and Kostya Tszyu would have added to the ledger, but he got enough done to rate higher at 140 than “Pretty Boy.”

147 Pounds

Titles: Mayweather (World Champion 2006-Present); De La Hoya (World Champion 1997-99; WBC belt 2000)
Notable Foes: Mayweather (Zab Judah, Carlos Baldomir). De la Hoya (Pernell Whitaker, Julio Cesar Chavez, Ike Quartey, Oba Carr, Felix Trinidad, Shane Mosley, Arturo Gatti)
Advantage: Are you kidding?

Look, if I need to explain the difference in level of competition between the two warriors at this weight then boxing really is dead. Interestingly, this is the only shared weight where each can claim to have been the true champion. Oscar narrowly defeated the legendary Whitaker to win a World title whose line traced directly to Donald Curry-Milton McCrory; Floyd breezed through Baldomir to win the title whose line traces straight to Oscar’s loss to Mosley. Mayweather fans can take solace that his 2006 wins against Judah and Baldomir were against two of the top three at 147 and that they marked the end of his 2003-05 vacation from challenging battles.

Still, if the gap in career quality of competition was narrow before, it is at welterweight that Oscar blows by Mayweather with no looking back. Whitaker, Trinidad and Mosley were all top-five pound-for-pound level foes and while a case can be made that Oscar lost all three or was robbed against Trinidad (officially he lost to the latter two) all were razor close. The bout with Mosley was a classic. Ike was a beast and Carr was leaps and bounds better than Baldomir. The Chavez rematch win marked the end of the Mexican God as a force and the Gatti fight almost doesn’t merit mention with the rest of his tenure. True, he had some Bruseles level mediocrity (Patrick Charpentier) but it’s a grain of sand on a beach of awesome opposition.

Oscar above 147

Titles: 154 lb. World Title (2001-03); WBC belt 2006-Present; WBO belt at 160 lbs. (2004)
Notable Foes: Javier Castillejo, Fernando Vargas, Shane Mosley, Felix Sturm, Bernard Hopkins, Ricardo Mayorga.

Mayweather has yet to campaign above 147; Saturday’s Jr. Middleweight tilt is a hell of a first trip to take there. Oscar has had mixed results above welterweight. He won the lineal World title from Castillejo in 2001 and won the (so-far) defining fight of his life when he stopped Southern California rival Fernando Vargas in 2002. His second loss to Mosley was controversial to some, but so to was his win at 160 over Sturm. Hopkins was a noble venture even if the nobility of the body shot that stopped Oscar in the ninth round is still debated. The only other bout he’s had, Mayorga, was a six-round blitz of a faded but still game former World welterweight champion.

More fun facts…

*Both Oscar and Floyd are part of an exclusive fraternity. They are, chronologically, the seventh and eighth fighters in the history of the sport to capture real/lineal world titles in three separate weight classes. The only other fighter to accomplish the feat in the last thirty-plus years is Sugar Ray Leonard. This is the first time two men in this exclusive fraternity have faced off since Henry Armstrong earned his third crown by defeating triple-crown winner, and then welter king, Barney Ross in 1938.

*Oscar has faced eight current/former/future lineal World Champions in his career, posting a mark of 5-4 with four of the wins inside the distance. Floyd has faced five, defeating all of them with two stops.

*This is the sixth time Oscar has faced someone who was considered consensus top ten in the pound for pound ratings. Of the six (Chavez, Whitaker, Trinidad, Mosley, Hopkins, Mayweather), only Chavez would have been considered less than top five going into his bout with Oscar.

Bottom Line: As is evidenced, this fight could have all the hype it needs without embellishment. Also evidenced is that those who argue for an Oscar win this weekend based on quality of competition have a lot of ammunition. Floyd arguably lags behind Roy Jones much less Oscar in this category, a hard knock on a so-called pound for pound king. Remember folks, Mayweather rates himself above Sugar Ray Robinson. Read through his divisional tests and enjoy the chuckle.

The chuckle may be the most entertainment you get this week. Oscar is a 34-year old fighter with two fights in nearly three years facing off against a 30-year old, fairly active master of his craft in the prime of his life. Floyd may not be the best fighter Oscar has ever faced, but Oscar is not the same guy who fought Mosley and Quartey either.

That doesn’t mean he can’t win. Oscar may have some losses, but that’s because he has the type of fights no one gets through without them. This is another of those fights and all history aside it’s not a tough fight to call. I hope I’m wrong but I wouldn’t be shocked if Mayweather wins nine rounds or more Saturday night. This won’t be a classic but it’s likely to be a clinic. Mayweather big on Saturday night.

The Whole Fraternity: For those wondering, the roll call of three-division champions is:
Bob Fitzsimmons – (160, 175, Heavyweight)
Tony Canzoneri – (126, 135, 140)
Barney Ross – (135, 140, 147)
Henry Armstrong – (126, 135, 147)
Emile Griffith – (147, 154, 160)
Ray Leonard – (147, 154, 160)
Oscar De la Hoya – (140, 147, 154)
Floyd Mayweather – (130, 135, 147); No fighter has ever won four lineal World titles.

The Ten Second Bell: There is more going on in Boxing than the superfight of course…German Felix Sturm’s middleweight win over Javier Castillejo should, but might not, set up a bout with German-based Armenian Artur Abraham. Abraham (22-0, 17 KO) is the forgotten man at 160 lbs. but with a win last year (and yes, I thought he deserved the win) over Edison Miranda it is he that remains Jermain Taylor’s true #1 contender…Max Kellerman was in good form last Saturday, reminding the world that Joel Casamayor is still the one true World Lightweight king. Ring Magazine may not be correct in all of their championship designations (they are historically wrong at 112 and 175), but they are dead right on Casamayor. However, as Juan Diaz’ manager Willie Savannah told me after the fight, it was Joel that turned the kid down for a March bout on Showtime. If entirely true, that could be a clear sign that the much older Cuban wants to be perhaps overpaid for what might be his cash out bout.

Of note, Savannah mentioned a wish-list bout with Marco Antonio Barrera on more than one occasion…Speaking of Diaz, so much for the senior’s circuit. All things equal, youth almost always rules the day. The young (23) lightweight titlist from Houston is in position to be the dominant American superstar in the sport sooner rather than later. He’s all class outside the ring and all character in it. Every real fan should hope he’s as good as he looks…You could see Acelino Freitas looking for a way out against Diaz as early as the fourth round with continuous looks to the referee for help. When he found himself alone, he quit. The fact that he rode around on the shoulders of his corner men to celebrate it was despicable.

Don King, who has put on a slew of quality shows in the last two years but been noticeably absent from HBO, was in rare form after the Diaz win. “They got to deal with us again,” King roared. Two guesses as to who ‘they’ are…When asked how it felt to be part of the best fight on HBO in probably eight months, Diaz said, “I can’t see the fight (so to find out how good it was) I’ll watch the tape later.” Trust me Juan. It was a great fight.

Cliff Rold is a member of the Ring Magazine Ratings Advisory Panel and the Boxing Writers Association of America. He can be reached at roldboxing@hotmail.com

I ordered this fight today, one more 24/7 then its on

most of these ave probably been posted already but theres a few new ones

BoxingScene Predictions: De La Hoya-Mayweather




By Rick Reeno

On Saturday night, the most anticipated boxing event in years will take place at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Six-division world champion Oscar De La Hoya (38-4, 30 KOs) defends his WBC junior middleweight title against unbeaten, four-division world champion Floyd Mayweather, Jr. (37-0, 24 KOs).

"This is what boxing is all about. Fighting Floyd Mayweather is the type of fight that truly gets me motivated to go through a hard training camp and make the sacrifices I have to make to be the best," said De La Hoya. "We've talked about it, the press and the fans have asked for it, and now we're going to put it all on the line and fight. I can't wait for May 5."

"I'm excited to get this opportunity to once again show why I'm pound-for-pound the best in the world and to add another title to my collection. I respect everything Oscar has accomplished in this sport but this time he's in over his head," Mayweather said.

The staff of BoxingScene comes together to voice their opinions, predications and strategies for the big fight.

Tim Smith - De La Hoya might have the size, but he will have to catch Mayweather to press that advantage. And with Mayweather's speed that will be tough to do. Mayweather doesn't have the power to stop De La Hoya, but he does have the skills to outbox him. Mayweather 12 round decision.

TK Stewart - Here's the one thing you need to know about this fight. Oscar De La Hoya has really lost a step because he has only fought once in the past 32 months.

In watching him lately, I don't see the spring in his step or the snap in his punches. My view is that in order to be sharp a guy has to be active and De La Hoya has been semi-retired for a while now.

"The Golden Boy" fooled a lot of people with his performance in the Ricardo Mayorga fight last year. Oscar fooled them into believing that he's still the same guy that he always was. I must admit that I too, was fooled. But, Mayorga was tailor-made for Oscar and truth be told, Mayorga was in no condition the night he fought Oscar as evidenced by his failing the post fight urinalysis.

I see in De La Hoya a guy that has become a heavy-footed fighter who is a little slow to pull the trigger on a guy that moves a little. Even a limited guy like Mayorga had some success against him, although fleeting.

More and more I believe that Floyd's confidant, Leonard Ellerbe was right. There is no way a part-time, one handed fighter is going to beat Floyd Mayweather, Jr.

Floyd is going to paint him up and before Oscar can get in to unload shots Floyd will be gone. Mayweather will make it a stinker because his father has warned him about Oscar's power. Floyd probably won't do too much standing around.

This fight has come about two years too late for the 34 year-old De La Hoya and at just the right time for Mayweather.

Mayweather will look great early but the fight will tighten up in the second half. Still, Floyd will do enough early to win it. Mayweather by decision in a fight that will look a lot like Leonard vs. Hagler - without the intensity.

Tom Donelson - Mayweather in a squeaker. If this fight was held three to five years ago, De La Hoya would be the favorite. Here is what you need to know:

De La Hoya is 34-years-old and has fought only six rounds since Hopkins. Mayweather is 28 and at his peak. Mayweather will be best defensive fighter De La Hoya has faced and the fastest as well. Mayweather can fight inside and outside. He can go from plan A to plan B. Finally, Mayweather needs this fight more for his legacy than De La Hoya. De La Hoya's greatness is already set, but for Mayweather, this fight can define his career.

This will be close and maybe this fight turns out like Hopkins-De La Hoya, with De La Hoya playing the role of Hopkins as the bigger fighter who simply dominates.

I am favoring Mayweather in this one by a close decision.

Sergio Martinez - The fight is finally here and it is good to see so many people looking forward to this Saturday night. I will dispense with the longwinded explanation and just give you my prediction straight from my heart. I am going with Oscar De La Hoya in eight rounds. Enjoy the fights.

Alphonso Costello - This is how the fight will go down: Mayweather jabs, tucks in his chin, does the shoulder roll and side steps De La Hoya's left hook. A high speed pursuit ensues when De La Hoya chases Mayweather around the ring. And like most high speed police pursuits, this fight will end when the bad guy is caught.

Oscar De La Hoya KO's Floyd Mayweather in round 11.

Sammy Rozenberg - Oscar De Le Hoya by knockout in ten.

Paul Gallegos - Gentlemen, start your engines and get ready for the Floyd Mayweather Invitational Track Meet. There is a greater chance of this fight being a major bore and snore rather than the first of an epic trilogy. If Floyd is on his game, then he could conceivably pitch a shutout. Oscar has proven time and time again that his biggest nemesis is a fighter with speed - see Whitaker, Mosley etc.

Oscar's biggest asset is just that - his size. He will be the bigger fighter and therefore try to use his power to negate speed. Speed, in general, negates power. Floyd should be able to control the pace, but if he decides to get a streak of "macho" in him instead of rabbit, then we could have an interesting bout. The Freddie Roach factor could play a significant role over the Mayweather family. Roach hates to lose and he gets his point across to any one of his champions who is willing to listen to his instructions. If Oscar went on the Manny workout, then maybe he can pull one last rabbit out of his hat and take a decision.

This is an interesting case of speed vs power. Both men are fairly equally skilled and can beat 99% of the guys in their respective divisions.

But, on a more important note, these two are basically the only two individuals that the boxing world has left. I am not saying that there aren't other great fighters out there, but these two are the only ones that the average individual in American society will basically be able to identify in a police lineup on their notoriety. If this fight comes off as a bogus decision, then everyone from the fans to the fighters and even to a certain extent, the promoters will all be punished. A shoddy decision or bore of fight and boxing is drowning in its own filth. Boxing has no one to blame for this quagmire, except itself.

As much as I hate to say it, Mayweather earns the nod, via a steady volley of jabs that consistently beat the bigger man to the punch. Mayweather by UD 116-111 on all three cards.

Richard McManus - This is what Oscar does. Mega-fights. Mayweather has the speed and skills. But when has he fought a fighter even close to Oscar's ability. Zab Judah? Jose Luis Castillo? On the other hand, Oscar has fought everybody over the last 8-9 years.

Oscar is in an interesting position in that people are saying that he'll have to make this an fight and cut off the ring. Most seem to think that if Mayweather has his way he'll just run, stay away and box. And that would be smart. If Mayweather wins, it's a boring fight. That could happen.

But Oscar still has an excellent jab and isn't exactly slow. Plus, I've heard Freddie Roach has been working on Oscar punching his opponents arms. If Oscar catches him with a left hook, I think it's over. Mayweather has been hurt by almost everybody he's fought. And he can finish.

Oscar by mid-KO.

Patrick Kehoe - De La Hoya-Mayweather is a clash of two boxing maxims: "a good big man beats a good smaller man" (De La Hoya) and "speed kills" (Mayweather).

Well, the deciding factor is where each fighter is chronologically with respect to their primes. Floyd Mayweather is at the summit of his powers and Oscar has trained manically to restore himself to something like his best. And look for Mayweather to be stronger than Team De La Hoya believe.

The pick here is Mayweather TKO 11.

James Blears - Statistically the good big guy, usually defeats the good little guy. But throw this out of the window with Oscar and Floyd. Floyd is phenomenal, undefeated and the best pound for pound. Oscar is appreciably past his best. He's no longer the Golden Boy. He's getting wrinkled around the eyes and he's looking middle aged.

Talented as he is, Oscar has often fallen short in the big fights against Felix, Shane (twice) and Bernard. While Oscar is fretting down to the weight, Floyd is growing into to it. But make no mistake, he'll be comfortable and pretty strong at it.

Oscar's going to need to be very fit, because he's going to do a lot of chasing. Floyd would be silly to stand and trade. In those circumstances Oscar's going to tire in the last four rounds. This is what he's done before, and it'll loose him this fight too. I hope it goes the distance, so we see both's capabilities and brilliance. Floyd will win by unanimous decision. I hope the fight stays controversy free. And I've got a feeling that Oscar's going to pick up a cut, which I hope his corner will successfully deal with.

Jose Aguirre - Oscar De La Hoya over Floyd Mayweather, Jr. by twelve round decision.

Ronan Keenan - It's hard to doubt that Folyd Mayweather is the most talented fighter on the planet right now. Meanwhile,it was easy to be impressed by De La Hoya last time out against Mayorga. But remember, Felix Trinidad looked unbeatable stopping Mayorga, but then had his ring rust and slowing reflexes exposed by the skilful Winky Wright. Oscar will probably follow in the footsteps of his former rival. He looked awesome against a shopworn Mayorga, but will have his limitations exploited by a supremely gifted fighter in Mayweather. You just can't fight someone of his ability coming off so much inactivity. Trinidad found out against Wright, De La Hoya will get his wake-up call on Saturday.

Troy Ondrizek - De La Hoya will be incredibly focused for this fight. The stigma of losing to the best of his era haunts him. Seriously, how can De La Hoya be called the best when he has lost to all the hall of famers that weren't past their prime like Hopkins, Trinidad, and Mosley (even though he really should've beaten Trinidad). De la Hoya knows he needs this win to give himself a legitimate legacy, not just as a great fighter, but as one of the greats. With that said, I feel that the intelligence and poise of Floyd Mayweather will overcome an exasperated De La Hoya. The magnitude of the event in regards to De La Hoya's career will be his undoing. Mayweather will have somewhat of a rough go at it at first, but will adjust and counter De La Hoya until De La Hoya unravels and gives up his gameplan. I also believe that Mayweather will set the pace of this fight and will start to run once De La Hoya hits him squarely. Thus making the fight a bit boring, but a win for Mayweather nonetheless. Mayweather by unanimous decision.

Johnny Ortiz - I cannot even begin to imagine Oscar losing, but stranger things have happened, a bad decision, an injury, a bad cut, who knows? If everything goes the way I see it, Oscar De La Hoya will be the victor in what should be an exciting confrontation, both Oscar and Floyd will be in tremendous shape when they take center stage

Joe Harrison - When De La Hoya gets in the ring with Mayweather, he should have his hands full. Although I respect De La Hoya for everything that he has accomplished, his time has passed. Mayweather will once again show everyone why he is today's most gifted boxer and the best pound for pound. He won't have the power to knock out De La Hoya but he will have the necessary speed and skills to be victorious and add another title to his resume.

Mayweather by decision

John Hively - This would be an easy pick if this was a peak De La Hoya come May 5th; Oscar by knockout. But the peak of the Golden Boy was about eight to ten years ago. Even then he was only a borderline all-time great.

By all rights, Floyd should win this one easily. He’s at his peak, he’s been active, he’s an all time great but he’s not in the same league as Harry Greb, Mickey Walker, Sugar Ray Robinson, Tommy Hearns, Sam Langford, Sugar Ray Leonard and lots of others; at least not yet. That seems to be what he’s aiming for. On the other hand, Oscar has had only one fight in two years, and he is way past his prime. De La Hoya’s lack of recent activity may affect his stamina, and this may prove his undoing. The longer the fight goes, the greater are Floyd’s chances.

I like Floyd in this fight by decision, but there is a danger for him. Watching Floyd and Oscar fight over the years has convinced me that Floyd may be made to order for Oscar. Styles make fights. Mayweather has most likely never faced anybody with Oscar’s skills, power and hand speed. I can see Oscar knocking out Mayweather in two rounds because of a flaw in Floyd’s style that makes him vulnerable to Oscar’s fistic assets. Now if only Oscar or his trainer Freddie Roach sees it. It’s a tough choice for me to make. How badly does Oscar want to win? Don’t know. Is he just in there for one final paycheck? Hard to say. Is he going to fight like his legacy is important to him? Maybe, but then, maybe not.

A guy that doesn’t fight much at all suggests that he really doesn’t want to fight much at all. But if Oscar comes to engage in a real combat, knowing his legacy is on the line, and that it really matters to him, hmmm….

Floyd’s going to come to win, no doubt about it. I say Floyd by decision, but I can see Oscar beating the tar out of him, or even eking out a decision. I change my mind. Oscar by a knockout, or Floyd by decision if the fight goes beyond eight rounds. But then I can see Oscar running out of gas starting about round six.....

Ronnie Nathanielsz - Mayweather must surely be the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world today especially after Manny Pacquiao failed to strengthen his claims with not a particularly impressive showing against unknown Jorge Solis. Mayweather's biggest asset is his speed and his ability to slip punches and throw combinations from all directions.

De La Hoya is not much slower either and is a smart fighter too and he's got Freddie Roach - calm and collected - in his corner which may contrast with the mayhem in Floyd's corner , what with brothers Roger and Floyd Sr being as they are.

Besides, we have never seen a more determined De La Hoya. He wants to win, badly. And he has the advantage in weight which means additional power over Mayweather who is moving up. Oscar also has a terrific left hook plus his right which Roach has developed just like he did with Pacquiao.

This fight is what boxing needs and although I admire Mayweather my heart goes out to De La Hoya because for one thing he has treated Filipino fighters really decently and well and with sincerity. Beyond that, I simply admire Freddie Roach. It should be a great fight and I pick De La Hoya to win a fairly close decision.

Cliff Rold - Mayweather by unanimous decision over De la Hoya.

It would be better for boxing for Oscar to win and be tempted to continue. At 34, that's not likely. I'm one of the geniuses that picked Baldomir over Floyd; it was the only time I have ever picked against Floyd and I'm not doing it again...at least not against a faded name well past his prime. This fight is going to be one-sided with Oscar winning, maybe, three rounds. Hope I'm wrong.

Eric Alan Rineer - Neither one of these fighters is anything short of great. Oscar De La Hoya has proven himself as a champion and warrior. Floyd Mayweather, meanwhile, is arguably the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world today. I've been looking forward to this fight, like everyone else, since the day they signed to meet. It should be a terrific fight and I see Floyd playing it cautiously in the early stages of the bout. Oscar will try to make Floyd respect him early as he presses the action and lands some hard shots. I believe the first half of the fight will live up to its hype. I expect to see both fighters impressing the judges early but Floyd should continue to gain ground as the match wears on. His speed, above all, will frustrate Oscar, who won't be able to duck many punches later on.

Floyd will test Oscar to the body where De La Hoya has proven susceptible in the past. As bad as Oscar wants this fight, I believe Floyd wants it even more to cement his legacy. Floyd is an unbelievable talent and he has picked the perfect time for this fight to happen. Look for a masterful performance from one of the greatest fighters of the past decade. I'm picking "Pretty Boy" Floyd by 11th-round TKO.

Dave Sholler - I want to like Floyd Mayweather Jr., I really do. I want to appreciate the speed and power he packs, not to mention the way he marks his spot in the boxing ring like a lion defining his territory.

But the more I listen to “The Pretty Boy” spew venom, the more I want someone to take his spot as boxing’s lead lion. I want someone to pummel him from pillar to post in a manner that brings him back to reality.

Floyd talks a great game, but critics contend that he is covering up glaring psychological weaknesses that have haunted him for years. He wants to be the villain. He wants to be a showboat. But more than anything, he wants to be noticed.

He will be noticed on May 5th. After his 12-round war with Oscar De La Hoya concludes this Saturday, Floyd Mayweather will exuberantly extend his arms in triumph well before the announcer reads the card. As the announcer takes the mic, all of Mayweather’s cronies will begin celebrating for their leader.

Here’s the problem, Mayweather’s crew won’t have much to celebrate. A cocky, overconfident Floyd Mayweather will not do enough to beat De La Hoya. Oscar De La Hoya will push the pace, force Floyd to make mistakes and impress the judges with precise punching.

On May 5th, Floyd Mayweather’s reign as the top lion in the boxing pride will end.

Dave Wilcox - I haven't been so excited for a bout in many years. We have the pound for pound king in Mayweather vs Boxing's last mega-star in Oscar DeLaHoya. Oscar DeLa Hoya needs this bout to secure his ever-elusive "Super-Champion" moniker and dare I say Boxing needs him to win as well. With Boxing being on down slide for some time because of the lack of Superstars that transcend the sport, an Oscar victory over Mayweather is just what we need to help lift our sport. This is an event that reminds me of the days of yore when Sugar Ray Leonard was taking on the likes of Duran and Hearns. I for one, cannot wait to sit my fat behind in front of the 58" HD screen and watch history unfold.

As far as the bout goes, I think Mayweather's speed will be very troublesome for Oscar, but the size and strength of Oscar will be tougher for "Pretty Boy" to handle than many think. Mayweather has never fought anyone with the combination of power, chin and Boxing ability that Oscar brings to the table. The first time that left hook lands on the chin of Mayweather, he will realize that he is fighting a true Junior Middleweight. I see Mayweather winning the majority of the early rounds with his nifty Boxing.

All the time he is winning most of the early rounds, Oscar will be smacking the body and roughing up Mayweather on the inside. By round eight, you will start to see something very unfamiliar. Mayweather will show signs of fatigue, and Oscar will go in for the kill. I think Oscar will surprise Mayweather with his power and Floyd will taste the canvas in the later rounds. Mayweather will show his fighting heart and make it to the final bell. The early lead Mayweather had will keep the decision close.Oscar DeLaHoya will get the nod by split decision. Can you say rematch?

Jaime Estrada - Oscar De La Hoya by split decision

Dan Creighton - I got Mayweather in a clear decision, 8 rounds to 4.

Don Colgan - Mayweather by unanimous decision, in a hard fought, fairly close fight. Don't be shocked in Mayweather is dropped for the first time in his career. If DeLaHoya can work the body and get inside, he can do damage. Mayweather has never fought in the trenches over an extended period and we may find a lot about his heart.

However, Mayweather is an extraordinary talent and it is impossible to pick against him. He is a great champion in his prime and he will ultimately have too much firepower and speed for Oscar.

Amy Green - Mayweather by decision. It may not be the popular decision, but it's my decision and I am sticking to it. Floyd will be able to weather everything Oscar brings with speed and skill, and his conditioning will also play a major role in this decision. Floyd's power will come in his volume of punches and that will overwhelm the Golden Boy. Also adding to Oscar's frustration willl be any defensive tactics the battling Floyd. Sr. and Uncle Roger have armed their champion with. Another plus in Floyd's arsenal may have well been the addition of Anthony Thompson early on in his camp-- Thompson was present in Oscar's camp for Bernard Hopkins, who brought him to his knees. I've not purchased PPV since Lewis/Tyson and am counting on this being worthy of my $55.

Jake Donovan - From the moment this bout was announced, "Mayweather by decision" came immediately to mind. Months later, I have yet to hear the relevant argument that convinces me otherwise. My only hesitance would be the late odds shift, which creep closer and closer to Even as May 5 draws nearer. But shady Vegas scoring practices aside, Floyd by decision in a 116-112ish type fight that's not a complete stinker, but not exactly Corrales-Castillo I.

Ron Gallegos - As much as I would like to say this will be a fight for the ages, I don't think it will. As much as I would like to see Oscar prevail, I don't think he will. Floyd has only gotten stronger and he has lost none of his speed. The only thing that would make me think twice about Oscar's chances is the fact that he taking this fight dead serious, as evidenced by the six pack he's sporting on his body. The training is rigorous in both camps. Floyd with all of his showboating gets a little tiresome, but the times when he was interviewed in a serious vein, he showed a little of the real Floyd, not the flamboyant braggadocio, but a sensitive caring young man. Oscar, on the other hand, is always professional. That's been his trademark throughout his career.

Initially when the fight was announced, I gave Oscar virtually no chance. After getting into the hype of the fight, I then began to think, maybe the Golden Boy can pull it off. Now reality has set in. Floyd is just too quick and too much the best in the world at his weight. If he elects to trade, it will be interesting. If he slips and boxes, it will be boring but an easy decision win for Floyd.

Carlos Irusta - Mayweather by points. He's too fresh and fast for Oscar, who must provoke a war in the short distance, cutting the ring for to take advantage. Oscar was in trouble with good walkers, and Floyd has a tremendous pair of legs. He likes to be the counter puncher, using all the opponents mistakes. Floyd will win without tanking any risk.

Bob Canobbio - Floyd Mayweather, Jr. by unanimous decision.

Larry Tornambe - Boxing needs more intriguing fights like this one. Floyd's speed will be his edge, but Oscar's size could be Floyd's biggest problem. I am going on Oscar's temper being fired up during training. Something tells me he'll build a nice early lead and it will carry him to victory, despite his slow down in the final two frames.

De La Hoya by decision.

Ernest Gabion - I am going with De La Hoya by controversial decision. DLH will be the stronger aggressor. Add to the pro DLH crowd will roar every time DLH throws let alone land and I think it will sway the judges to the point of it going Oscar's way.

George M. Phillips - Floyd Mayweather, Jr. by an 8th round KO.

Bradley Yeh - For months the outcome of this fight has toggled in my mind. At first I saw Mayweather’s style and smarts causing way too much confusion for Oscar, particularly considering that (aside from Vargas) De La Hoya has not dominated the big fights of his career. Then I got thinking about some of Mayweather’s questionable opponents over the last few years, and that combined with the trouble Mayweather had in the earlier part of the Judah fight started to turn me the other way again, against a Mayweather victory. What sealed the change of heart for me (that time) was when I contemplated the fact that Mayweather performed far too defensively with Baldomir. After all, De La Hoya is certainly no Baldomir.

You can go on from there with all the tangibles to this fight, as there are so many. You can consider the (yet to be known) effect on Mayweather that a decent left hook from DLH will have. If you're of the view that Oscar will connect at some stage in the fight, it’s certainly a worthwhile and significant consideration, as aside from Oscar’s undeniable pedigree and natural power, Mayweather is certainly no welterweight, let alone whatever the weight may be that DLH will arrive at come fight night. Can Mayweather take that power that we know DLH carries.

More interestingly perhaps; will PBF live up to his own hype and prevent Oscar from landing his telling power shots?

Then of course there is the fact that DLH appears to have the marquee fight experience down pat to the point where stage fright hasn’t yet appeared to significantly eat at his performance.

Everybody told me that Oscar’s preparation with Mosley will hold him in good stead for PBF. I wondered about that in a backward way. Sure Mosley is one of the best guys to prepare for a Mayweather fight with. But then you could also say that Mosley clearly beat DLH the first time they met. The second time they fought, although DLH officially won, he didn’t dominate. More importantly for this prediction though, Oscar didn’t do anything in those two fights that PBF would not have been able to evade or handle, unless of course you believe Mosley pulled moves against DLH that PBF could not. I think not, as clearly Mosley, at this or even that stage of his game, is not in possession of superior all around skills than Mayweather.

I don’t believe that Mosley did anything in his fights against Oscar that Mayweather now couldn’t do, and it was at this point of consideration that I flipped back to thinking PBF may win this fight again.

When that viewpoint changed again, I began to seriously wonder how I would ever predict this fight with so many tangibles. How I did it was to just write down the prediction today and see what I felt, rather than what I thought. Here it is…unedited

It’s hard to know whether all the ego surrounding this fight presents benefit or risk for each of the owners. There's no doubt that ego can be a dangerous when it is not a direct reflection of your ability. It’s easy to believe Mayweather has the biggest ego here, but that doesn’t mean it’s more of a danger to him than Oscar’s commercially refined persona. If you follow the line of thought that Mayweather knows what DLH really can bring and is not underestimating him, (which I believe is true), then there are serious considerations for DLH in the fact that PBF does not see him as a risk, not at all. Not even considering the well known weight advantage DLH will have. Not even considering that over the past years as Oscar’s trainer, and even recently, Floyd senior has undoubtedly informed team Mayweather of the extent of Oscar’s capabilities.

None of this has swayed Mayweather’s enormous confidence.

That kind of confidence is a very powerful thing if you can utilize it properly. And with Mayweather’s experience and skills, he most likely can. Of course that kind of confidence is also a danger if you find yourself hurt as a result of it.

I don’t believe DLH can bring more speed and complexity to the fight than PBF was dealt when against Zab Judah. I do believe that Mayweather would have performed as well as Mosley has against DLH. And I believe this fight, for many reasons, was the wrong fight for Oscar to change trainers in such a way so that there is a guy (Floyd Senior) that possesses information all about his capabilities and weaknesses that has several good reasons to use it for Oscar’s demise.

Furthermore, I don’t believe DLH would handle a fully focused Jab Zudah as well as PBF did either, and for those who doubt that comment please cast your mind to DLH’s fights with Pernell Whitaker. Now, staying with that Whitaker fight for a moment, Oscar had better hope Floyd doesn’t turn southpaw, as Pernell did, because that move alone completely befuddled Oscar, and Whitaker wasn’t even in his prime then. Whilst DLH was younger then, he was also very lucky to get that decision. But that’s another story.

Mayweather’s advantages mean that Oscar’s strategy to win makes him a little predictable to PBF, well more predictable than PBF will be to Oscar anyway. DLH will not win this fight without the delivery of power shots that change Mayweather’s approach. And to deliver them in the required quantities to win, DLH must set a pace that will provide the needed opportunities and openings. That pace will concern Oscar, and it may not align with his visions of how fresh looking he imagined himself finishing this fight.

PBF will be very aware of this. He knows Oscar can't afford to sit back and fight with a points based mindset. Mayweather also knows what that rushed pace will mean to the infamous DLH stamina reserves in the later rounds. Of interest is how the Roach DLH corner will manage such a crisis on the big stage in its infancy.

Oscar’s superior punch resistance probably almost guarantees that PBF can't take DLH out early when he’s fresh, particularly since DLH has acclimatized to fighting guys in the middleweights. But it’s feasible that PBF could take Oscar out later in the fight if PBF is fighting an offensive fight and landing, which sadly he didn’t do with Baldomir. Aside from DLH catching PBF and knocking him out, which also is possibility, a case for PBF winning on points can be made so much more easily for Mayweather than DLH, as PBF has superior, skills, speed and fitness, and he also has a tried and proven relationship with his corner that fully understands his capabilities beyond the point of the dollar.

DLH is a great champion. He should be commended forever in the hall of fame for his use of botox and tweezers, making great fights and taking risks in the higher weight divisions. With this fight he has corrected the weight disadvantage that he has handicapped himself with these last few years. But, as with any great fighter, mistakes have crept into his show over the years. Mistakes that Mayorga wasn’t capable of capitalizing on, but mistakes that Mayweather will both see and use.

DLH’s need to win this last big fight for his own history means the pressure is new and real. That pressure will noticeably steal from the calm and pressure free approach Oscar normally carries into his big fights. There will be no point in pretending the danger is not real just because the weigh in favored the golden boy.

Notwithstanding all the marketing that has taken place, DLH knows he needs to win this and in that sense Oscar has more to lose. I don’t see PBF losing this one, although if it’s a close fight I do believe that in Las Vegas, against the outspoken Mayweather, DLH will get the sympathy vote.

For whatever that will be worth on the scorecards.

Rick Reeno - I have to go with youth and speed. De La Hoya has managed to achieve the same exact "pre-fight" effect as Felix Trinidad. He fooled the boxing public with a win over an overmatched Ricardo Mayorga. Like De La Hoya, Trinidad was the favorite to beat the smaller, weaker man in Winky Wright. Like Trinidad, De La Hoya may find out how difficult it is to beat a quicker, defense minded fighter like Mayweather. A past his prime Pernell Whitaker gave De La Hoya some fits.

Mayweather by uanimous decision.

Celebrities/Athletes

Donald J. Trump - "Oscar has always been under-rated—he will win!"

P. Diddy - "That right there is going to be ... that's a good one cause a lot of times everybody counts De La Hoya out. He's always the underdog. And he's at his best when everyone counts him out. I think this is gonna be one of the biggest challenges for Mayweather. I mean I think it's gonna be a tough fight. I can't pick a winner on this one. I really can't. I'm not gonna bet on it. I'm just gonna go there and enjoy it."

A drian Grenier, Entourage (Vince Chase) - Hmmmmmmhmmmm, De La Hoya."

Dale Earnhardt Jr., Professional Race Car Driver, NASCAR Nextel Cup - "Mayweather has a huge edge in a few key areas—speed and defense being two. Floyd is closer to the prime of his career and Oscar is way past his. I like the fact that Oscar was willing to take this fight. It would be a great story if he should stop Mayweather. Mayweather will be just too much for him to handle though. It might go the distance with a small percentage of a TKO in the late rounds. Win to Mayweather."

Chris Tucker, Actor - "I love both of them…Oscar."

Lebron James, NBA All Star, Cleveland Cavaliers Forward - "Mayweather."

Jeremy Piven, Entourage (Ari Gold) - "Oh man, you know, that's a tough one you know because Mayweather may be the pound for pound best. But I love Oscar and I love his heart. I'm gonna have to go with Oscar. I want De La Hoya and I'm not a gambling man because I bet with my heart, so I say De La Hoya."

Kevin Connolly, Entourage (E) - "I think De La Hoya upsets everybody and I think De La Hoya knocks out Mayweather. And there I said it, and you can play it before and after the fight because that is what's gonna happen. I'm gonna say the 8th round."

Rap Star Nelly - "I think its gonna be crazy. Floyd has the complete package but I think it's going to be one of the biggest tests of his career. I think this could be one of those moments that defines his legacy and what it is he wants to be recognized for after he's done fighting. And I think its one of those fights. Then you talk about Oscar who's just a warrior. He always comes through in the clutch you know when you think you can count him out he pulls it off. I will say that I think Floyd has the best chance but I'm not counting Oscar out.

Reggie Bush, Running Back, New Orleans Saints - "I think its gonna be a great fight. At first when I heard about the fight I thought Mayweather, but now I'm not so sure. I'm not pulling for either now. I'm just ready to see a battle."

Bow Wow - "Mayweather is going to win. Pound for pound he's the best. And I like his style, he is young, rich, and flamboyant. I like the fact that he is confident. And his drive and passion for what he does. Plus DeLaHoya can't take the speed. That's what's going to kill him."

Robert Wisdom, Actor, The Wire (Howard "Bunny Colvin) - "You know Mayweather, he's one of the greats. But two of the greats are going to be in there and it's gonna be a tussle for sure. Neither one of them are gonna go down. De La Hoya he doesn't fall to easy so you know he's gonna make it a fight. By the 11th round, I'll pick whose side I'm on."

Barry Sanders, NFL Hall Of Fame Running Back, Detroit Lions - "Floyd wins because he is young and hungry. The fight will be close and goes the distance because Oscar raises his game to the level of his opponents and the challenge especially when he fights in his weight class. Both are too good to allow the other to dominate."

Ladainian Tomlinson, Running Back, San Diego Chargers - "I'm a big boxing fan so hopefully I'll be there. Man it's tough, you know. It's hard to go against Floyd because he hasn't lost a fight and he's pound-for-pound the best fighter in the world. And I think Oscar's gotta have a good game plan against Floyd. If he does that, I think he'll have a chance. But I'm gonna go with Floyd."

Rasheed Wallace, Forward, Detroit Pistons - "They are both legendary fighters in this game, but neither one can beat Bernard Hopkins."

Caron Butler, NBA All Star, Washington Wizards Forward - "Mayweather is the best fighter of this era. He has overcome adversity, works hard, and will win on Saturday night."

Sonja Sohn, Actor, The Wire (Detective Shakima "Kima" Greggs) - "I love Mayweather. I think he's absolutely the closest thing in the last 20 years to Muhammed Ali you know. I just love the dance. I mean I really think he's very skilled. I was very impressed with him. I saw him fight Gatti for the first time in Jersey, in AC, and I'm telling you, one minute he was on this side of him the next minute Gatti's face was all torn up and he was on the other side of him. I think this fight can go the distance. I'm not expecting a short fight, so I'm looking forward to it.

Nick Stahl, Actor - "De La Hoya-Mayweather will be the biggest fight that we have ever known. Literally anyone in this generation will ever know. Mayweather is a huge contender and he's undefeated. De La Hoya he's the golden boy. It's gonna be amazing."

James Denton, Actor, Desperate Housewives (Mike Delfino) - "I don't know much about boxing but it's hard not to be fascinated with all the intrigue of this fight. You know with Mayweather's dad being formerly De La Hoya's trainer. And I just think Oscar's a fascinating guy. He's so low hey. He's a singer. He's pretty. And then you know he just kicks your but. He's amazing to watch. He's one of the few guys I'd pay to watch anytime anywhere. So um anytime De La Hoya's in the ring, I'll turn it on. So I think its gonna be De La Hoya just on heart alone and I think it will be a decision."

James Pickens Jr., Actor, Grey's Anatomy (Richard Webber) - "I think I gotta go with Mayweather. I think youth will win out come May 5th. You know, Oscar, I've been a big fan of his. But I don't know if he's ever met anybody that's got the skill that Mayweather does. You got two great fighters. and I think its one of the fights fans have been waiting to see for a long time. It's almost like a throwback to the great fights when I was growing up and used to watch with my dad."

Willis McGahee, Running Back, Baltimore Ravens - "Mayweather is going to dominate the whole fight. He's going to knock De La Hoya out."

Vernon Wells, Center Field, Toronto Blue Jays - "I gotta go with Floyd Mayweather Jr. He's one of the best, pound for pound. De La Hoya's getting a little old. I'm gonna go with Floyd."

Justin Verlander, Pitcher, Detroit Tigers - "Oscar De La Hoya is going to take this one. He's a boxing legend and it could be his last fight. He's going out on top."

Jalen Rose, Guard/Forward, Phoenix Suns Guard - "This event will be a clash of the titans… Pretty Boy Floyd has an undying will to be an all-time great and will refuse to lose. Mayweather wins."

Alex Smith, Quarterback, San Francisco 49ers - "I think it's going to be a really good, closely-contested fight, but I'm going with Mayweather in a decision."

Justin Morneau, First Baseman, Minnesota Twins - "They don't call you the best in the world unless you can back it up. Mayweather without a doubt. He's so fast and elusive in the ring. Oscar is not going to be able to pull this one off."

Julius Jones, Running Back, Dallas Cowboys - "Mayweather's speed and power will be too much for Oscar to handle. Oscar is tough and prideful...this will work against him as he'll be standing toe-to-toe and taking Mayweather's best shots. Mayweather in a unanimous decision. Oscar hits the canvas at least once."

Alonzo Mourning, Center, Miami Heat - "Actually I was just bowling with Floyd not too long ago. So I'm bankin on my boy Floyd. He's an incredible athlete. He's tough in the ring. I've seen him in action plenty of times. I expect him to pull out another victory."

Boxers

Roberto Duran, Former World Champion - "De La Hoya has the stronger punch. Mayweather is not used to facing bigger men. [ Carlos] Baldomir didn't have the talent of De La Hoya and Mayweather couldn't finish him. If De La Hoya cuts him early, Mayweather is going to be limited. De La Hoya by decision.''

Sugar Ray Leonard, Former World Champion - "As far as my prediction, I lean toward Oscar. I've changed my mind a couple of times. But Oscar has a little bit more desire, strength, size. Oscar has never one that big one, the most defining moment in his career. I think that this allows him to rise to the occasion. But if Mayweather wins then he can be called great, because right now it's premature, but if he beats Oscar that label fits him fine."

Jermain Taylor, Middleweight Champion - "I'm looking forward to seeing De La Hoya and Mayweather on May 5th. I think is going to be a great fight and it's a fight that's good for boxing, but I think Floyd's speed and youth will work well for him in this fight. I think the fight will go 12 rounds with Floyd winning a close decision over De La Hoya."

Antonio Tarver, Former Light Heavyweight Champion - "…On paper you would have to say that Oscar comes into this fight having all of the intangible advantages experience, power, quality of opposition, and I believe maybe just a bit more focused for the job at hand. In order to counter those advantages you're gonna need someone with natural God given talent and ability. That is when a fighter as gifted as Floyd Mayweather has a great chance of over coming all the advantages with raw speed and the will to win at all cost. I like his chances, so your guess is as good as mine."

Juan Diaz, WBA, Lighweight Champion - "I think De La Hoya's naturally bigger size is going to make a difference. I think Oscar will dominate Floyd with his left jab that will carry him to a decision victory."

Vernon Forrest, Former Welterweight Champion - "De La Hoya vs. Mayweather will be a great fight, it will go the distance, and I think Oscar has a slight edge, but I do not know who will win."

CompuBox Analysis: De La Hoya vs. Mayweather



By Bob Canobbio

Floyd Mayweather, 37-0, 24 KO’s, attempting to win his fifth title in five different weight classes, an 8-5 favorite over Oscar De La Hoya, 38-4, 30 KO’s, an underdog for just the second time in his 42-fight career.

Mayweather, who’s won titles at 130 lbs, 135 lbs., 140 lbs. and 147 lbs., outlanded his last four opponents (Baldomir W 12, Judah W 12, Mitchell KO 6, Gatti KO 6) 537-177 in total punches. That’s an average of just five punches landed per round for Floyd’s unsuccessful foes! The average welterweight and junior middleweight lands 19 punches per round.

Floyd didn’t taste much leather and he didn’t waste it either. He averaged 39 punches thrown per round in those four fights, 18 less than the welterweight average. He landed 46%, 12% higher than the average 147-lber. Less is more is the message here. Exciting? No. A winning formula? Up to now, yes. Mayweather subscribes to the George Benton theory that goes: “win today, look good tomorrow.”

Of those 39 total punches thrown per round, only 14 were jabs- 10 less than the weight class average. He landed 38%, 13% higher than the weight class average. He also landed 51% of his power shots, 11% higher than the welterweight average.

Let’s take it a step further and look at Floyd’s stats from 18 of his title fights tracked by CompuBox, compared to the numbers put up by fellow defensive-minded superstars Roy Jones (18 title fights from ’93-‘02) and Pernell Whitaker (18 title fights from ’89-‘97).

Floyd averaged 45 total punches thrown per round, landing 46%. His 18 opponents landed 22% of their total punches. Using the CompuBox plus/minus system, Floyd came in at +24. That number was derived by subtracting the opponents connect pct. (22%) from Mayweather’s connect pct. (46%).

The in his prime “Mr. Jones” scored a +20. Like Floyd, he got off 45 total punches per round, landing 48%. His 17 opponents landed 28%, 6% higher than Floyd’s. Like Floyd, Jones averaged 14 jabs thrown per round, but only landed 22%.

Sweat Pea registered a +16. He was busier than Mayweather and Jones in those 18 title fights, averaging 62 total punches thrown per round, landing 44%. As a result of Pete’s busyness, opponents landed 28% of their total punches. Of Whitaker’s 62 total punches thrown per round, half were jabs, 42% landed.

Rather select company for the Pretty Boy - and better overall numbers too.

In 18 of De La Hoya’s title fights tracked by CompuBox, he averaged 54 total punches thrown per round, landing 44%. Opponents landed 29%, producing a +15 rating for Oscar. He averaged 24 jabs thrown per round, landing 40%. Opponents landed just 20% of their jabs, 5% less than the welterweight/jr. middleweight average. They did however land 39% of their power shots - about the weight class average. Does Oscar have just average defense against the power punch? (Note: CompuBox categorizes any non-jab as a power punch).

Shane Mosley, whose speed was the difference in both his wins over De La Hoya (but he’s not as quick or elusive or as accurate as Mayweather and many will argue he didn’t win the second fight), landed 50% of his power shots in their two fights. Mosley’s 284 punches landed vs. Oscar in their first fight are the most landed vs. Oscar in 31 of his fights tracked by CompuBox. Itching for the knockout against what he perceived to be the smaller man, Oscar averaged 60 punches thrown per round in that fight, hence the high number of connects by Mosley.

Oscar averaged 51 thrown per round in the rematch and still faded down the stretch. Look for a similar number thrown per round vs. Mayweather. Why? a) He doesn’t want to leave himself too available for Floyd counters and b) he’s just not going to “find” Floyd everytime he wants to throw.

Jose Luis Castillo gave Floyd all he could handle in their first fight (he actually outlanded Floyd 203-157 in total punches- the most punches landed vs. Floyd in 26 of his fights tracked by CompuBox) due to his brawling style. Castillo averaged 31 power punches thrown per round among his 42 total punches thrown per round. He landed 46% of his power shots, bolstered by a steady body attack. Is Oscar of the mindset at this point in time to risk eating Mayweather combos in an attempt to get inside and do damage of his own? As Marvin Hagler said late in his career: “it’s tough to get up at 5:00 a.m. to do roadwork when you’re wearing silk pajamas.” It’s safe to assume Oscar owns several sets of silkies. Mayweather probably does too, but he’s got more to prove than Oscar.

Freddie Roach is more offensive-minded than Floyd, Sr. Will Oscar buy into Freddie’s power-boxing philosophy and try to make it into a semi-street fight?

Zab Judah used his speed and lateral movement, coming from a southpaw stance to frustrate Floyd early in their fight. Oscar doesn’t possess Zab’s speed or movement but is a converted southpaw. Don’t look for Oscar to turn lefty vs. Floyd.

Another theory has Oscar attempting to use his advantages in height and size and keep the fight on the outside. He’s got a more effective jab than Mayweather, however their reaches are listed at an identical 72” and Mayweather’s got better lateral movement. That, plus an “outside” fight strategy for Oscar requires movement all night. What can he do differently at age 34 that he couldn’t do earlier in his career to stave off the late round fade?

There’s no denying Mayweather’s the best fighter on the planet today. He’s been the more active fighter as well. Oscar’s the naturally bigger man and has fought many Superfights. This is Floyd’s first trip to the really Big Show. Early in the fight, Oscar will try to establish his jab, back Mayweather into the ropes, muscle him and attempt land right hands, knowing Mayweather’s trained to avoid the left hook. The right hand could set up the homerun ball- the left hook.

Oscar should throw more punches per round than Floyd. Will his late round flurries be enough to wow the judges? It’s Oscar’s house and Vegas loves the underdog. Mayweather will have to win rounds convincingly. Will Floyd feel Oscar’s power and revert to full retreat mode? If he does, Oscar’s got a chance - a puncher’s chance, but Mayweather should win by unanimous decision.

I ordered this fight today, one more 24/7 then its on

Did you get ur 50" TV bro?
Also, is there any good undercard fights?I havn't seen whats on the whole card.

Rocky Juarez is fightin Jose Hernandez on the undercard, that will be a real good one IMO. Also Boom Boom Bautista (whom i have real high hopes for) is taking on Sergio Manuel Medina, who is also undefeated.

Its weird that they only have two bouts on the undercard, but I'm pretty sure that these two bouts are going to be real good.

Did you get ur 50" TV bro?
Also, is there any good undercard fights?I havn't seen whats on the whole card.

I didnt get cable hooked up in time so we ordered it at my brothers house, screaming kids, small tv and my brother pointing out EVERY little mistake made by both fighters....cant wait!

For Immediate release:

ACTION-PACKED BOUTS SET FOR DE LA HOYA VS. MAYWEATHER "THE WORLD AWAITS" MAY 5 UNDERCARD PAY-PER-VIEW TELECAST JUAREZ vs. HERNANDEZ; BAUTISTA vs. MEDINA -- ALL PART OF BOXING'S BIGGEST NIGHT


LOS ANGELES, CA (March 30, 2007)… Featherweight star Ricardo "Rocky" Juarez and rising boxing sensation Jose Andres Hernandez will square off in 12-round grudge match for the WBA Fedelatin Featherweight Championship vacant title, as the featured undercard televised bout for the highly anticipated May 5 super fight between "The Golden Boy" Oscar De La Hoya and "Pretty Boy" Floyd Mayweather as it was announced today by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight is part of the three televised bouts that will take place from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, NV and broadcast live on HBO Pay-Per-View.

Also added to the televised portion of the show is a thrilling bout between sensational contenders Rey "Boom Boom" Bautista and Sergio Medina as they put their undefeated records and future title shot on the line in a 12-round WBO Junior Featherweight title eliminator.

Kicking off the exciting night's events in non-televised events will be undefeated Australian native Billy Dib aiming to showcase his explosive talents battling the formidable Jose Gonzalez of Los Angeles, CA in a 10-round junior lightweight match-up. Rounding out the night's fight action will be two of boxing's fastest rising stars—former Olympian Rock Allen and Ernest Johnson in separate 8-round bouts.

The Houston native and 2000 Olympic silver medalist, Rocky Juarez (26-3, 19 KOs), is a gutsy fighter looking to cement a legacy among boxings' elite. Best known for his 2006 back-to-back close battles with then-champion Marco Antonio Barrera, and fresh off of his impressive 5 th round knockout over Emannuel Lucero earlier this year, Juarez is excited to be back on the center stage to showcase what he feels his ability to become champion of the world.

Jose A. Hernandez (22-3, 14 KOs), hails from Round Lake, IL and embodies the bona fide talent and drive to challenge boxing's toughest competition en route to becoming world champion. Hernandez returns to the ring, following an electrifying knockout victory last December, where despite a deficit on the scorecards exploded with an eighth round flooring of the undefeated Jason Litzau.

Pilipino rising sensation Rey "Boom Boom" Bautista (22-0, 17 KO's) has been leveling his competition, mounting an extraordinary undefeated record and near perfect knockout percentage on the journey to his upcoming WBO junior featherweight title eliminator. Dominating the ropes against fierce contenders, including veterans Marino Gonzalez Giovanni Andrade, and Roberto Banilla in his last three bouts, "Boom Boom" is considered one of fans and critics must-see attractions in the sport.

Argentinean Sergio "Rocky" Medina, (28-0, 16 KO's), at just 25 years old has accomplished an imposing record, crushing his competition with his speed and savvy style. With his eyes focused intensely on the title, Medina is excited to challenge another undefeated record holder and do so in his trademark rousing fashion on the sport's biggest stage.

The De La Hoya vs. Mayweather pay-per-view telecast, beginning at 9 p.m. EST/6 p.m. PST, has a suggested retail price of $54.95, will be distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View and will be available to more than 61 million pay-per-view homes and in 176 countries around the world. The telecast will be available in HD-TV. HBO Pay-Per-View is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For your daily De La Hoya vs. Mayweather fight week updates visit www.hbo.com.

On Sunday, Apr. 15 at 10:30 p.m. EST/PST, HBO will premiere the all-access prime time series "De La Hoya/Mayweather 24/7." The four-part series, with unprecedented access, will chronicle the fighters' preparations for the May 5 mega-fight at MGM Grand and will provide viewers with a compelling look at two extraordinary champions.



Undercard looks good, Batista Vs. Medina could easily be the fight of the night

ps - WAR DIB!

I didnt get cable hooked up in time so we ordered it at my brothers house, screaming kids, small tv and my brother pointing out EVERY little mistake made by both fighters....cant wait!




Undercard looks good, Batista Vs. Medina could easily be the fight of the night

You get the screamin kids & I get the screamin drunks.
When that fight comes on dude I think I'll be oblivious to the stupidity around so who cares?

yeah I set up a quarter for the morning so im gonna be stoned for the next few days, I gotta drop my dealer off at work then come back and watch 24/7 on repeat until Sunday

yeah I set up a quarter for the morning so im gonna be stoned for the next few days, I gotta drop my dealer off at work then come back and watch 24/7 on repeat until Sunday

^^^^^^Impressive...^^^^^^^.
What time will the main event start here?Any idea.

^^^^^^Impressive...^^^^^^^.
What time will the main event start here?Any idea.

I think its on about midday Sunday but id leave it to 10:30 am at the latest to be at the pub or wherever you go just incase, Undercard will most likely start around then
Im only going from memory though, I havent ordered a US PPV for a looooonng time, last one was probably Mosley/De La Hoya 2

Faster, younger Floyd too much for aging Oscar




by Mike Dunn (photo by Oscar Picazo)

There hasn't been as much buzz about a non-heavyweight fight like this for a long time, at least since Oscar De La Hoya took on the unbeaten Felix Trinidad in 1999. Oscar vs. Floyd actually goes beyond that, though. It reminds me of the hype and atmosphere that surrounded Sugar Ray Leonard vs. Roberto Duran for their first encounter in Montreal back in 1980.

There are two important intangibles with this one. Mayweather Jr. is fighting a heavier opponent than he has ever met before. He has never gone above the welterweight limit. De La Hoya is comfortable at 154 and that is a huge plus in his favor.

De La Hoya is also four years older and hasn't been nearly as active in recent years. That is a huge plus in Mayweather's favor.

De La Hoya has fought just one time since losing to Hopkins in September of 2004, and that was a year ago against Ricardo Mayorga for the WBC light middleweight title. Granted, De La Hoya looked sharp and displayed little ring rust while knocking Mayorga down twice en route to the decision. But Mayorga isn't in the same class as Mayweather and Mayorga, frankly, may have underrated De La Hoya a bit. There were many who thought before the fight that the Golden Boy was well past his prime.

Mayweather won't think that way. He'll be primed for battle. Mayweather has much to win for: He is undefeated and wants to stay that way and he has something to prove to the boxing public in general and to his father in particular. And he wants to build a legacy. Beating De La Hoya will enable him to achieve all of those things. Mayweather is much more battle ready of the two.

In the past two years, he has taken on four rugged opponents and has basically dominated each one of them. In June of '05, he knocked out Gatti in six. In November of '05, he knocked out Sharmba Mitchell in six. In April of '06, he won a unanimous 12-round decision over the very tough Zab Judah, winning handily on two of the three scorecards while laying claim to the IBF and IBO welterweight titles. In November was the virtual shutout of Baldomir over 12 rounds to win the WBC, WBO and IBA welterweight crowns.

Mayweather is fighting with a lot of confidence and he is accustomed to taking on rugged guys. De La Hoya has only fought once in nearly three years. While he looked good in beating Mayorga, we don't know if the De La Hoya of 2007 is the same De La Hoya who showed up for that fight or the De La Hoya who took a pounding against Hopkins.

I give De La Hoya credit. He didn't take this fight on a whim and he's in great shape. Sparring with Mosley is helping him immensely and having Floyd Sr. in his corner will also be beneficial.

In spite of all that ... my guess is that De La Hoya won't be able to minimize the ravages of time well enough to beat a guy as quick and skilled as Mayweather. If the arcs of their careers had crossed when both were in their prime, I would have to go with De La Hoya. Not now.

To win, De La Hoya will have to get to Mayweather inside the first six rounds. It could happen if Mayweather is prideful (foolish?) and thinks he has to show his manhood by trading with De La Hoya. That was the trap Sugar Ray fell into against Duran the first time and it cost him the fight. Mayweather could make the same mistake but I doubt it.

Mayweather will win a unanimous decision and have De La Hoya in trouble in the final two rounds. The fight will be close over the first half with De La Hoya having a slight edge. He may even knock Mayweather down in one of the early rounds. But from the sixth or seventh round, Mayweather will gradually take over and cruise to a strong finish.

I got dejavu that the title of the above piece is what were gonna see in the headlines in Mondays sport section.