On this day: August 1, 1987: Mike Tyson given a scare by Tony Tucker

Casual, composed and on his heels, Tony Tucker was arguably “Iron” Mike Tyson’s toughest ever victory in the early days of his career.

Tucker was the IBF title holder coming into the unification bout with Tyson who held the WBA and WBC belts.

Tucker came out strong in round one, hitting Tyson on the side of the head with a short left hook and he would continue to fight Tyson aggressively in the early rounds and actually won rounds one and three on the scorecards.

However, as the fight went on, Tyson began to find his rhythm and went on to record a points win. With his victory Tyson would become the first Undisputed Heavyweight Champion since Leon Spinks in 1978. 

Manny Pacquiao must fight on free TV this winter

The 36-year-old Pacquiao (57-6-2, 38 KOs), who tore his rotator cuff roughly three weeks before getting outclassed by Floyd Mayweather, is recovering from arthroscopic surgery on his right shoulder. Pacquiao pocketed in excess of $120 million for his pathetic showing versus the 38-year-old Mayweather (48-0, 26 KOs) on May 2.

“We have actually sent videos of Manny’s activities to his doctor in the US,” said Koncz, referring to renowned orthopedic surgeon Neal El-Attrache, who performed Pacquiao’s operation on May 6. “(Manny will return) next year, late February or March.”

Because the speedy southpaw failed to properly inform the Nevada State Athletic Commission about his injury, Pacquiao was prohibited from taking an anti-inflammatory shot on the evening of the "Fight of the Century.” Pacquiao subsequently fought timidly and was outscored by embarrassing counts of 116-112, 116-112 and 118-110.

Pacquiao is an eight-division titleholder who the Boxing Writers Association of America named its “Fighter of the Decade for the 2000s.” Billed as “The Fighting Pride of the Philippines,” Pacquiao used his superior quickness to land blistering combinations and become one the world’s premier pound-for pound pugilists. Despite his pleasing style, Pacquiao shamed the boxing community last spring and fans deserve to receive some form of compensation for his abysmal outing. Accordingly, rather than competing on Pay-Per-View, Pacquiao should show humility and throw fists on free TV this winter.

The extremely affluent Manny Pacquiao, one of the most celebrated prizefighters of his generation, remains indebted to the public.

The Undying Power Of The Spoken & Written Word

Emerson writes in his lecture to divinity students that, ‘The true preacher can be known by this, that he deals out to the people his life – life passed through the fire of thought.’

I agree with the master of philosophic thought, because for me to be an effective writer and communicator I need to draw upon the lessons learnt from experience – and it is then that my words, whether written or spoken, have their greatest universal power to impact others.

Bleed Onto The Page

Theoretical thought is useless. Practical thought is applicable and relatable. It is as I bleed onto the page that others can receive their own personal life transfusion. It is as I pour myself out in word form that others can be filled.

For it is in the refining fires of thought that life can receive its greatest expression. Unashamed recordings of beliefs, ponderings and heartfelt unveilings are the very things that can empower others to become the best they can possibly become.

It is the electricity of our written thoughts that light the minds of men. It is as we courageously thrust our fiery thoughts onto the page that others are urged, spurred, challenged, inspired, and motivated to accept nothing but excellence.

The Power Of Words

Words are the igniters of dreams, the fuel of faith and the hands of hope.

Write and deal out your life. Journal. Take those thoughts and let them spill out and over every page.

Then speak. Let those life-giving words fall from your lips. Don’t withhold the flow. For by letting them splash as a gushing stream, the deserts of men’s souls – of those who surround you and for whatever reason are dying of thirst – will once and for all be given the chance to blossom once again as God’s children have all been designed to do.

Boxer Amir visits shrine along with wife, daughter

World Boxing Council Silver Welterweight Champion Amir Khan on Friday said that Pakistan is rich in boxing talent which can be groomed under a long-term plan.

"I can see a lot of talented boxers in Pakistan and they have the necessary potential to gain international prominence if modern facilities are provided to them to polish their skills," he told journalists after arriving here on a brief visit along with his wife and daughter.

Amir said he would meet Pakistani boxers to share his experience and to impart them finer points of the game. He said that he was delighted to see that a boxing academy - which has been named after him - was being set up by the Punjab government to assemble boxing talent under one roof for its grooming under a long-term plan.

"I have brought my wife and daughter to Pakistan for the very first time and they are really happy to be here," he said adding, "I have come to Pakistan for only three to four days, but will visit the country next month for a longer tour."

 - Amir ready to face Mayweather - 

Amir was optimistic about facing unbeaten boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr in near future. "I think, perhaps, he does not want to face me in the ring," he said adding, "May be he (Mayweather) knows it is going to be a tough fight and maybe I beat him."

He said that if it was an easy fight Mayweather could have faced him long ago. Earlier, Amir Khan - upon his arrival in the provincial capital - went to the Data Darbar and offered fateha.

On July 30th in History : Danny Williams knocked Mike Tyson out in four rounds

Mike Tyson was old at the time and I’m pretty embarrassed that I beat such a great fighter. It’s crazy.

I always say to people that if he’d have been the best Tyson, I wouldn’t have lasted a round.

Like everyone else I thought he was invincible back then. I remember there was a time when we didn’t even see him have a nosebleed. It was amazing. I thought he was made out of metal. But it started to go wrong for him: the money; the wrong people around him; too many girls; too much partying. There’s so many different factors. If he’d have gone on properly, with his old people around him, he could have beaten Rocky Marciano’s [49-0] unbeaten record and gone down in history as the greatest, but with all the people around him, it went wrong.

I’m not being disrespectful but Mike Tyson is not the most handsome-looking man, and with all that money, women he would only [previously] dream of having coming to him came to him. What was he going to do?

One hundred per cent I believed I’d win. I had a dream a few weeks before the fight was announced that I knocked him out. He went crashing over into the ropes in my dream, just like he did in the fight. So when the fight was announced I thought, ‘This is it.’

The key was to jab. But when I got into the fight I couldn’t get him with a jab because his head movement was so good. It was the second or third round when I just thought, ‘Forget it, I’m going to war with you.’ You see at that point I go to war with him.

His punching is crazy. I can’t even explain it. It’s the speed as well and the sharpness.
You don’t even see the punches coming. In the fourth round we had a little trade-up and he hit me with a massive right hand, absolutely massive, and when that had no effect, and I held on, and then started to push him back, I felt him get weaker. The crowd were chanting his name and they could feel him get weaker too. They could feel the fight coming out of him. About 30 seconds later I put the big barrage of punches on him.

He was the type of fighter who was great when he was winning but he could never come back from the brink – like Evander Holyfield – and win. With Tyson, if he was winning he’d won, but if he was losing he’d lose. It’s sad to say but that attitude was in him.

Me and [trainer] Jimmy [McDonnell] stayed up all night [after the win] talking, talking, talking. I don’t think I slept –
I was just buzzing. The phone didn’t stop ringing. It was
the most amazing feeling I’ve ever had.”

Improve Or Implode – Your Choice

This week, in Slate’s popular Dear Prudence advice column, a young man wrote in asking for advice on his future. He wants to go back to school to earn his bachelor’s degree, and has his wife’s support, but is worried about the risks involved in changing his life. As he writes to Prudence: “I keep thinking that I made the wrong decision in going back to school at age 29 and should have just stayed in a dead end job.”

You probably already know what Prudence told the young man, since you would have told him the same thing: GO!

It is always better to improve than to stay in a dead-end path — and yes, as that letter writer notes, there are many risks involved in making that kind of a choice. He could go into debt for his education. He could choose a career path with a limited number of job opportunities. But you’d never tell him to stay where he was, right?

So why are you telling yourself the same thing?

It’s time to identify the choices you’re not making

Here’s a quick thought exercise. Take a minute to identify one area of your life where you feel like you’ve reached a dead end.

• Maybe it’s your approach to exercise.
• Maybe it’s your ability to pay down debt or save for the future.
• Maybe, like the young man who wrote to Dear Prudence, it’s your educational level.
• Maybe it’s an aspect of one of your relationships.

Now ask yourself: why am I staying in this dead end? Why am I not choosing to improve?

We all know the usual suspects: time, work, money, and inertia. And yes, sometimes these factors get in the way and keep us stuck in one place for a while.

But there is always a choice you can make, and always a choice you’re not making.

Choosing to improve is easier than you think

You don’t have to completely overturn your life to get out of those dead ends and start improving. This is a good thing — if you’re like most of us, with jobs, spouses, kids, and other obligations, you don’t have room to completely overturn your life, and nor do you want to. But that doesn’t mean you need to get stuck in unhealthy ruts either.

If you feel like you’re out of shape, for example, the popular Couch to 5K program requires no equipment or training and only takes 20 minutes, three times a week. At the end of the program, you’re ready to run a 5K race, and will have lost weight, built muscle, and increased endurance in the process.

If you want to continue your education, you don’t need to quit your job and become a full-time student. As the team at Bryant and Strattonnotes, online education helps people earn degrees in the evenings and provides them with the “critical skills, technical knowledge and personal qualities top employers value and respect.”

If your relationship feels like it is no longer growing, sometimes it is as simple as taking 30 minutes at the end of each day to talk about your lives, frustrations, desires, and goals.

You have to be ready to handle the risk

Once you start making improvements in your life, you’re likely to continue to want to improve — and that’s where the risks come in. What will happen when you tell your family you want to train for a marathon, or use your new degree to change your career field?

Well, life is full of risk, and if you don’t face it head on, you never grow. If your spouse teases you about being “Marathon Man” or nags that you’re never available to do the dishes, well, that’s a chance to really work on your relationship. Your spouse may feel threatened that you’re growing while he/she is not. Or, you may actually be falling behind on your household contributions. Either way, you have to overcome this — and work together — to move forward.

You’ll find that facing and overcoming risk leads to stronger relationships in all areas of your life: a spouse with whom you form a deeper bond, or an employer who views you with more respect. But you never know unless you face these risks head-on. Ignore the “Marathon Man” teasing, and you’ll quickly get stuck in yet another dead end.

So what are you going to do today, to choose to improve? Are you going to look at online classes? Start your first Couch to 5K run? Ask your partner out on a special date? Whatever you do, follow Prudence’s advice and GO, GO, GO. And then see how your life transforms.

                          Written by Jane Brown

Zimbabwe's president honors boxer Manyuchi with cash reward

Zimbabwean boxer Charles Manyuchi was honoured Thursday with 50,000 cash reward by the country's President Robert Mugabe for his success in the ring.

Last week Manyuchi defended his WBC welterweight bronze title after defeating Gianluca Frezza of Italy on home turf.

In the past, the pugilist complained that his own nation was not appreciative of his success adding he received better recognition in neighboring Zambia.

Manyuchi finally got his due recognition at a function held Thursday in the State House in his honor. The boxer then promised to bring home the silver title in the WBC welterweight category, held by Amir Khan of Britain.

With the honor, Manyuchi joined the rank of Olympic gold medalist swimmer Kirsty Coventry, marathon runner Steven Muzhingi as Zimbabwe's sports big names.

Groves training with Golovkin

The Hammersmith puncher challenges for Badou Jack’s WBC super-middleweight strap, possibly on Floyd Mayweather’s September 12 undercard, so has retreated to the iconic California gym that houses one of boxing’s most feared champions.

The undefeated WBA and WBC interim middleweight title-holder Golovkin trains at The Summit Gym in Big Bear but the scheduling of his unification fight against David Lemieux might scupper any potential sparring sessions with Groves, according to Sanchez.

Klitschko: Joshua cannot pass me, will have to face me

 The 39 year-old, who is preparing to face Joshua’s compatriot Tyson Fury on October 24 in Dusseldorf, has described the Olympic gold medallist as the best prospect ‘for 25 years’ following 13 straight wins inside three rounds.

"Anthony has all the tools to become that great champion inside and, most importantly, probably, outside of the ring," Klitschko told the BBC.

A recent five-fight television deal with German broadcasters RTL means Klitschko will be around for at least the next two years or more, meaning a fight with upcoming Commonwealth title challenger Joshua would be inevitable should the two fighters remain undefeated.

"He needs to improve and eventually it will happen - if I stay where I am today," said Klitschko.

"You (Joshua) cannot pass me since I've been holding the titles for many years, so if you want to get onto my mountain then you will have to face me," he added.

Klitschko v Joshua is a mouth-watering prospect if Eddie Hearn decides to go down that route with his talented protégé, although ‘AJ’ is still at British level and the Matchroom boss will want to avoid any talk of facing the formidable Ukrainian yet.

WBC number two-ranked Joshua, 25, first must deal with two unbeaten compatriots in Gary Cornish and Dillian Whyte this year in order to clean up domestically, before moving on to European and world level, possibly by this time in 2016.

My tips for happiness-Brandson style

I’m often asked: What is the key to success? My answer is always simple: happiness. Happiness should be everyone’s goal, but I understand that it can seem out of reach for many people, with one in four affected by mental health problems that alter their outlook on life. It is for this reason that I wrote the following letter forMind’s book: Dear Stranger, Letters on the subject of happiness.

I hope that my words can help others find the true happiness they deserve. 

   

Dear Stranger,

You don’t know me but I hear you are going through a tough time, and I would like to help you. I want to be open and honest with you, and let you know that happiness isn’t something just afforded to a special few. It can be yours, if you take the time to let it grow.

It’s OK to be stressed, scared and sad, I certainly have been throughout my 65 years. I’ve confronted my biggest fears time and time again. I’ve cheated death on many adventures, seen loved ones pass away, failed in business, minced my words in front of tough audiences, and had my heart broken.

I know I’m fortunate to live an extraordinary life, and that most people would assume my business success, and the wealth that comes with it, have brought me happiness. But they haven’t; in fact it’s the reverse. I am successful, wealthy and connected because I am happy.

So many people get caught up in doing what they think will make them happy but, in my opinion, this is where they fail. Happiness is not about doing, it’s about being. In order to be happy, you need to think consciously about it. Don’t forget the to-do list, but remember to write a to-be list too.

Kids are often asked: ‘What do you want to be when you grow up?’ The world expects grandiose aspirations: ‘I want to be a writer, a doctor, the prime minister.’ They’re told: go to school, go to college, get a job, get married, and then you’ll be happy. But that’s all about doing, not being – and while doing will bring you moments of joy, it won’t necessarily reward you with lasting happiness.

Stop and breathe. Be healthy. Be around your friends and family. Be there for someone, and let someone be there for you. Be bold. Just be for a minute.

If you allow yourself to be in the moment, and appreciate the moment, happiness will follow. I speak from experience. We’ve built a business empire, joined conversations about the future of our planet, attended many memorable parties and met many unforgettable people. And while these things have brought me great joy, it’s the moments that I stopped just to be, rather than do, that have given me true happiness. Why? Because allowing yourself just to be, puts things into perspective. Try it. Be still. Be present.

For me, it’s watching the flamingos fly across Necker Island at dusk. It’s holding my new grandchildren’s tiny hands. It’s looking up at the stars and dreaming of seeing them up close one day. It’s listening to my family’s dinner-time debates. It’s the smile on a stranger’s face, the smell of rain, the ripple of a wave, the wind across the sand. It’s the first snow fall of winter, and the last storm of summer.

There’s a reason we’re called human beings and not human doings. As human beings we have the ability to think, move and communicate in a heightened way. We can cooperate, understand, reconcile and love, that’s what sets us apart from most other species. 

Don’t waste your human talents by stressing about nominal things, or that which you cannot change. If you take the time simply to be and appreciate the fruits of life, your stresses will begin to dissolve, and you will be happier.

But don’t just seek happiness when you’re down. Happiness shouldn’t be a goal, it should be a habit. Take the focus off doing, and start being every day. Be loving, be grateful, be helpful, and be a spectator to your own thoughts.

Allow yourself to be in the moment, and appreciate the moment. Take the focus off everything you think you need to do, and start being I promise you, happiness will follow.

Happy regards,

Richard Branson

Arum sending doctor to Pacquiao for evaluation in August

Pacquiao, 35, has been recovering from surgery in the wake of his defeat to Floyd Mayweather Jr in May and Arum had initially stated that the ex-world champion should travel to the US for a check-up. The ‘Pacman’ then decided against the idea, although Arum isn’t worried and is happy for a medical examination to take place in the Philippines.

“It is fine with me if he’s not going to be here in the US at the end of the month because the doctor was amazed when he watched the three-minute self-rehab video of Manny,” Arum told The Manila Times.

“A doctor will go there to the Philippines in the next couple of weeks to evaluate Manny’s shoulder and I’m really optimistic about it.”

Asked about a possible timescale on a full recovery ahead of a return to the ring, Arum added: “I cannot say anything yet about his next fight since he is not yet healed.”

Brook: I know Khan talks are on the way, fight is well overdue

The 28 year-old has been chasing a high-profile UK clash with Khan for years without success and finally believes the event can happen due to recent comments by his potential future opponent.

"I know that talks are on the way. It looks like British fans might finally get the fight that is well overdue,” Brook told Sky Sports.

"I’m due to fight in October and I think he is expected to fight in November, so let’s get those wins and build towards a huge summer showdown next year.

"It will fill any open-air arena. I think it will build into an even bigger fight, so we might have to build it up a little bit more.”

After watching stablemate Carl Froch fulfil his dream of fighting in front of 80,000 people at Wembley Stadium in May 2014, Brook can almost touch what would certainly be the pinnacle of his career next year.

"It would mean everything, especially being involved in boxing all my life. It doesn’t get any bigger than walking out in your own country, with a packed out stadium, full of people anticipating the fight,” said Brook.

"It would be so satisfying because I’m hearing the name, I’m hearing about the fight wherever I go, whatever I do, so it will put a lot of things to bed.

"It’s been too long and I think the fight has to happen," he added.

Khan, also 28, has outlined to Brook’s promoter Eddie Hearn the stipulations that will eventually lead to a contract being signed, although the Olympian's agreement still hinges on his world title holding nemesis facing some of the biggest names out there in the meantime.

Klitschko backs Joshua as future boxing world champ

Wladimir Klitschko has hailed Britain's Anthony Joshua as the most promising boxer he's ever trained alongside.

The world champion has sparred with many boxers in the last 25 years, but highlighted Joshua as one that stands above the rest.

"I've faced a lot of athletes and opponents and after 25 years there is one highlight of a person that definitely has the potential to be a big star, not only in the ring but outside of the ring, and I'm talking about Anthony Joshua," Klitschko told the BBC Radio.

"Either they had good skills but not the strength, or they had strength but not the skills. Or they were good inside the ring but not outside because their life outside messed them up and that reflected on their sporting career.

"I think Anthony has all the tools to become the great champion inside and outside the ring.

The Ukrainian admitted the two could fight before he hangs up the gloves.

Joshua, 25, won a gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics and has won all 13 of his professional fights by knockout.

New Zealand heavyweight Joseph Parker spent time with Klitschko earlier this year, but didn't receive as much of a glowing review.

The 39-year-old was impressed with Parker and found himself tested at times, but wasn't sure what the future held for the Kiwi.

"He's extremely talented. I see myself in Joseph in a certain way. I can't say anything negative," Klitschko told ESPN's Dan Rafael in April.

"I don't know how the guy will develop but he has the potential."

Parker holds a 14-0 record and is prepping for this weekend's fight with Bowie Tupou in Invercargill.

Jonathan to receive GOtv largesse

Ailing former Commonwealth lightweight boxing champion, Dele Jonathan, is to receive financial assistance from GOtv, title sponsor of the GOtv Boxing Night.

Promoter of the fight and Managing Director of Flykite Productions, Jenkins Alumona, told National Mirror that the 68-yearold Jonathan, who is suffering from bladder and prostate enlargement and requires surgery, will be given 25 per cent of gate takings from the well- attended event.

“Dele Jonathan brought great honour to Nigeria through boxing and there is need to ensure that he regains his health,” Alumona said, adding, “We will give him 25 per cent of the gate takings as our contribution to his upkeep and we look forward to also helping others like him.”

Meanwhile heavyweight boxer, Onoriode “Onos” Ehwarieme who knocked out Adewale “Masevex” Masebinu in the second round of their six round challenge contest at the event has announced his readiness to take on National Heavyweight champion, Adewale Abbey “Tiger”, who he boasted to dethrone.

“Abbey has been avoiding me for a long time but he needs to know that his reign as the heavyweight champion will soon be history because I am ready to dethrone him, if he accepts to fight me.

GOtv Boxing Night is supported by MultiChoice, SuperSport, KSquare Security, Newsbreak.ng, Complete Sports, Brilla FM and Paragonis Multimedia Limited.

Be Expectant & Give Birth To A Great Future

Here’s a quote that leapt into my brain – probably around the time that one of my children was being born – ‘Be expectant and you’ll give birth to a great future.’

I love it when I can draw from the day to day life experiences that I face and create a concept that can be of benefit to others.

When you sum it up – a great tomorrow is dependant on an expectant today.

Expect To Win Or Lose – Your Call

If you expect to win. If you expect to be blessed. If you expect to succeed. If you expect to come up with solutions to every problem you face. If you expect to meet the right people. If you expect to have the ability to be creative. If you expect to have a future and a hope – guess what? You will.

However, the reverse is true.

If you expect failure. If you expect to not be able to address problems. If you expect to be overlooked. If you expect to not be able to create opportunity. If you expect to lose. If you expect to be handed second best. Well guess what? You will.

Personally I expect to be the guy who always lands on his feet. I expect that even though from time to time I will go down for the count, because of one of life’s uppercuts that catches me on my life’s chin, I will rise up. I will find a way. I will start afresh. I will learn from my experiences. I will cherish what mistakes have taught me, and I will go again. And by me learning from these I am then positioned to not only help myself, but to also help others to be overcomers.

Expectancy = Attitude

So expectancy has a lot to do with attitude. Your attitude will not only determine your altitude, but will also determine your latitude. That is, your relationships with those whom you come in contact with everyday.

You can soon tell how a man thinks by what he says – for your input will determine your output. So guard what you put in and you won’t be put out.

To develop a good attitude, one filled with expectancy, make sure you feed your mind with good material.

1. Read positive books.
2. Listen to positive recordings.
3. Attend positive seminars.
4. And associate with BIG dreamers.

Surround yourself with friends and associates who will encourage and support you in the pursuit of your life goal.

A Real Life Birth & Expectancy Moment

Please let me diverge for a moment back to the event that inspired my original quote.

When I was in attendance at the birth of my first child, the nurse brought in a glass of water for my wife, but in order for me to stop from fainting I drank it. But fortunately for my wife, when I was really needed, I rose up and provided the necessary support when the crucial moment arrived for the entry of my beautiful daughter into the world.

There had been great expectancy for many months, and now there was utter joy, there was fear, there was hope, and in fact there was a kaleidoscope of emotions flying all around the birthing room. But the end result was amazing as I held my daughter in my arms, and we both looked into each other’s eyes for the very first time.

How did it feel?

Magnificent.

And whether or not you have ever experienced what I have just shared – you can begin to experience that same feeling in your everyday life.

So be expectant. Be pregnant with great dreams. May fresh, outrageous, creative, magnificent, unconventional, world changing ideas be conceived in your heart and your mind so that you too can‘give birth to a great future’.

Klitschko admits Fury southpaw switching is ‘challenging

The pair meet on October 24 in Dusseldorf as Klitschko aims to kick-off a new five-fight German television deal triumphantly in what will be the formidable Ukrainian’s seventh defence of the WBA, WBO, IBF and IBO titles combined.

Klitschko recently went face-to-face with Fury at a press conference to announce the fight and was forced to look up to the Briton who stands a full three inches taller and has never lost as a professional. The 39 year-old said he enjoys the challenge though and hinted that keeping the fight at long distance was the key to victory.

“I think this fight is going to be hugely challenging for me,” Klitschko told Sky Sports.

“Fury is going to be switching the stance from southpaw to regular and he’s good with a close fight. He doesn’t like too much to fight at long distance, but there are certain things I need to adjust myself during the fight.

“I see it as a great challenge and I am enjoying it a lot. I am in training camp and getting ready. It’s challenging but it’s enjoyable as well.”

On his new TV deal with RTL, Klitschko added: “There is another prolongation for another five fights and am feeling very well. I hope my motivation and my health will last long enough.”

2016 will be Amir Khan’s year’

He has wide-ranging talk, Amir Khan reveals he’s had preliminary discussions about a fight with Kell Brook at Wembley Stadium in 2016, and adds he’s angling for his long-sought bout withManny Pacquiao next year too.“2016 will be Amir Khan’s year; you will see me in two of the biggest fights in that year,” he vows.He adds of his expected bout with Brook:“Do I think this is a 50-50 fight? Absolutely not, Kell is a very comfortable opponent for me. Styles make fights and his style is perfect for me. I will beat him very easily. He won’t be able to handle my speed, power and footwork.”

In related pieces, Omar writes about Khan’s plans to open a boxing academy in Dubai andhis broader connection to the UAE and touches on the always-unavoidable topic of Floyd Mayweather and his frustration with the undefeated American’s ongoing “excuses”.

The last man to beat Floyd Mayweather returns to the ring. And he wants a rematch

THIS past Sunday (July 26) in his homeland of Bulgaria, 46-year-old Serafim Todorov returned to the pro ring for the first time since 2003. The 1990s amateur standout – who won the World championships three times and also captured a silver medal at the 1996 Olympics – is, famously, the last man to defeat superstarFloyd Mayweather Junior.

The win over Mayweather came in the semi-finals of the ‘96 games in Atlanta, Todorov winning via a controversial 10-9 score many people felt should have gone to the then 19-year-old Floyd. After losing in the final to Somluck Kamsing, Todorov went pro in 1998. Having nowhere near as much success in the paid ranks, the Bulgarian had just six bouts, losing one. Walking away citing a lack of adequate promotional and managerial backing, Todorov last boxed in November of 2003 – until this past Sunday.

Returning to box a four-rounder at welterweight against a 1-5 fighter named Aleksandar Chukaleiski, the 46-year-old won a clear unanimous decision – with scores of 40-36, 40-36 and 39-37. Speaking later to Ognian Georgiev of Bulgaria Today, Todorov spoke about his plans for the future, which, he hopes, will include a rematch with Mayweather.

“The people saw once again that I am blessed,” a victorious Todorov said. “This guy was 20 years younger than me. It was like I am fighting my son. I am capable to show much more, but I need some serious organisation behind me. I am starting to find my old form. I am becoming better with each training session. There isn’t any pressure because I participated in so many international events. I am realistic and I don’t want to say any strong words for a match against Floyd. I need five months in the gym to prepare myself for him and I promise that it will be very interesting inside the ropes if we meet once again.”

There were recent articles reporting how Todorov has been living in a modest apartment and money is almost certainly a big factor in his returning to the ring. But is there a chance, no matter how slim, that Mayweather – a ring perfectionist if ever there was one – will look at the possibility of avenging his last ring loss? Todorov clearly hopes so.

Khan reveals Hearn talks over Brook clash at Wembley

The 28 year-old had consistently denied any interest in a fight with IBF welterweight champion Brook in the past, but says if the Yorkshireman can beat some top opposition in the near future - then a Wembley bout will be agreed.

“Eddie sent me a text and I invited him to Bolton,” Khan told The National. “We had a meeting at my office and we discussed everything for a potential fight against Kell Brook in 2016.

“I have made it clear to Eddie that I want this fight to be a big fight worldwide, not just in the UK. I told him Kell needs to fight a couple of big names and beat them, obviously. That will make our fight even bigger.

“The fight will be a Khan Promotions and Matchroom Promotions event in the UK, at Wembley Stadium.”

Khan defeated Chris Algieri earlier this year, and had hoped it would be enough to secure a fight with Floyd Mayweather Jr on September 12, but that honor looks set to fall to the unheralded ex-WBC belt holder Andre Berto.

Mayweather is still yet to officially announce his foe for the date, although Khan is not thought to be in the running for the pound for pound king’s final fight of his Showtime contract.

Khan: Mayweather is scared. He knows I’ll win.

Former light-welterweight champion Amir Khan (31-3, 19 KO’s) has responded to the report from LA Times writer Lance Pugmire, who was told by his sources that Floyd Mayweather has officially removed him from consideration because of his mouth.

“Told by official that Amir ‘King’ Khan is out of consideration to fight Floyd Mayweather next,” Pugmire said on Twitter. “Told the reason that Amir ‘King’ Khan is out is because of his mouth. He was told to zip it and kept yapping negatively about Floyd Mayweather.”

On June 15, Khan said on his Snapchat story that he spoke with Floyd Mayweather Sr., the father and trainer of Floyd Mayweather Jr., about the possibility of fighting his son.

Me and Floyd Sr. just had a conversation; it was a little crazy talking about a fight between me and his son, a lot of swearing that he was doing, but I’ll post it soon,” Khan stated.

It’s been over a month, and Khan has yet to post it.

Khan on the other hand doesn’t believe Mayweather bypassed him because of his constant trash talk, but rather because the undefeated pound-for-pound king is scared to face him – this is likely not going to help his cause.

“He can use whatever excuses he likes, but the bottom line is Floyd is scared. He knows I’m fast and can give him his first loss. Amir Khan brings more money, more fans, and more exposure on the table.”

Mayweather is coming off the biggest payday in sports history so Khan won’t be bringing more than Floyd, but he’d certainly help his rival make more than what a Berto fight might produce.

As we reported on Friday, Mayweather is in negotiations to postpone his retirement and sign a three-fight extension with Showtime/CBS.

This opens the door for fights against the likes of Kell Brook, Keith Thurman, Amir Khan, Shawn Porter, and maybe a rematch with Manny Pacquiao if he decides to return to boxing.

Unfortunately, we don’t live in a world where our bodies don’t decay. Eventually, Mayweather is going to have to call it a career, but extending his career by three fights would give younger guns a chance to make history – if that’s possible.

Will Khan get the fight? That’s going to be up to Mayweather. While Pacquiao dismantled Chris Algieri to get his shot, Khan struggled to earn a decisive victory against an improved Algieri under the tutelage of John David Jackson.

As Khan has been advising his domestic rival in Kell Brook to do, it’s time for the Bolton fighter to beat some top contenders before he earns a shot at Floyd Mayweather Jr.

How To Build A Rich Heritage

Some people spend their entire lives developing a legacy that can be passed onto future generations when they are dead and gone. I see the value of that in one sense, but may I suggest that it is far better to develop a heritage that can be enjoyed by both you and your offspring while you are still alive?

One of my open secrets as a parent was to develop businesses that I could operate with the aid of my children.

So today, after spending four hours with my family working on our business, and not simply in it, revealed to me yet again as to how rich I am at my current stage of parenting.

How many of my peers have the opportunity to sit in a comfortable resort-style setting sipping coffees and eating lunch with their children mapping out our futures together in business and in life in general on a week day morning? To be in a place where I am speaking to my children as peers and not as a father to a child.

All I can do is agree with King Solomon who once wrote ‘so I perceived that nothing is better than that a man should rejoice in his own works, for that is his heritage.’ Ecclesiastes 3:22

This in essence is what a living legacy is all about – more than just deceased property, leftover bank accounts, wills and inheritances – but rather the most precious gift given to me – to be able to spend time with my family, while I am breathing here on planet earth. To dream dreams with them. To cry with them. To laugh. To pray. To hope. To build. To shape. To mould our futures together, and at the end of each day to look at what we are building and rejoice.

And for those of my family whom I don’t get to work with yet on a daily basis, I ensure that I regularly take out time to nurture their dreams and to support them in their pursuits, so that they can live in God’s best for their lives.

That to me is what building a rich heritage is all about.

Fury: A Breath of Fresh Air

"I think I did get into his mind with the spiel I was giving him—I don’t think he’s had anyone go into him with as much intelligence as I gave him…He’s a weak mental person.  He kept going on about psychology and all that stuff, but at the end of this he’ll be hiring me to be a psychologist.”—Tyson Fury

“They probably will call him (Anthony Joshua) in…They’re like super best mates aren’t they? They’ve already vowed not to fight each other and all that rubbish. Is there a love affair going on there or something?”—Fury

“You (David Price) my friend are a legend.”—Fury

“We asked about the possibility of Hughie fighting Klitschko’s coach Banks first of all, but if we can get Vitali out of retirement then that’s even better for us.”—Peter Fury

“I’m counting down the days until I’m able to step in the ring and punish Fury for being the complete idiot he is…His latest homophobic rant aimed at myself, Lennox Lewis and [Vitali and Wladimir] Klitschko has really taken things too far.”—David Haye

“No I don’t believe gentlemen do stuff like that. David’s nothing more than a common person. He showed in his actions he is a thug and it doesn’t matter how regal he tries to be, in my opinion he is just a yob.”—Tyson Fury

“I thought this was a good place to think about Tyson Fury, sat on the toilet doing a sh**. Hi Tyson, how are you mate?”—Lucas Browne

“I don’t see where Tyson Fury has boxed anybody of Wladimir’s caliber to be able to get in the ring with Wladimir and do well.”—Lennox Lewis

“There is so many f****** p****s on hear! All b***job giving c****!! I’d love to see u lot I’d cut your throats u pack of t*******.”—Fury on Twitter

David Haye later responded to Fury’s “fury”, tweeting: “It seems @Tyson_Fury needs to ease up on his ‘Medication’ or seek an Exorcist, or he’ll get sectioned at this rate #StraightJacketRequired”

Perhaps Fury’s temperament could use more tempering and maybe he should be more self-deprecating, but I suspect he could care less what others think about him. All the rhetoric and loud mouthing is likely a load of blarney and he knows it better than anyone. Oh sure, he could take himself more seriously and embrace humility, but then he wouldn’t be Tyson Fury. He is the UK’s answer to Ricardo Mayorga, and his quotes or those he inspires are the stuff of a promoter’s dream.

Fury (24-0) is also a skilled fighter. He is young (26) and massive—he stands 6’9” —his arms seem to go on forever and his reflexes and ring vision are extraordinary for a man his size. He fights relaxed, is not impatient and seems to fully enjoy what he does. Fury also has superb range as he works behind his jab and keeps his opponents frustrated when they try to close the gap. But once he has someone hurt, he quickly closes the gap himself and moves in fast for the ending. Here is Fury finishing Steve Cunningham in a most malicious manner.

Tyson also possesses a wit—after all he is Irish. The thing is, he’s putting everybody on half the time, and it’s all a joke with him. Fury is a showman and is rarely at a loss for words or afraid to throw bold stuff out there. Heavyweight boxing hasn’t had this type in a long time. Not since Ali, really. David Haye is too self-absorbed and few buy into his scam. Boxing needs guys like Fury.

Now that Fury has soundly beaten Christian Hammer and Klitschko has taken the measure of Bryant Jennings, the two will clash in Germany in late 2015 and this one could equal Lewis-Tyson in being a “big event.” Fury has already initiated the verbal onslaught and Wlad seems hapless in responding. It’s like the Cassius Clay-Sonny Liston hyperbole all over again.

Wlad might win the fight but Fury will win the war of words. Indeed, in a sport/business that overwhelms us with nonstop lawsuits, suspected use of PEDS, and other never-ending topics, Tyson Fury just might be a breath of fresh air.