ROBERT WANGILA

 

   After a great amateur boxing career that finished with a Gold medal at the 1988 Olympic Games,  Kenya's Robert Wangila (Wangila Napunyi) turned professional on Feb. 24, 1989 scoring a unanimous win over Sidney Gomes who was also making his pro debut.

   After a couple of easy wins, the former gold medal olympian was put into a very tough matchup against Oklahoma's Buck "Tombstone" Smith who came into the bout with a record of 22-1-2, 16 ko. The bout was on the undercard of Sugar Ray Leonard vs Thomas Hearns rematch at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, NV. A high level challenge for a man with just 3 pro fights. Wangila won a very hard fought majority decision over 6 rounds.

   Wangila ran off a 6 fight knockout streak and took a record of 10-0, 7 by knockout into his next big test against Indianapolis' Clarence White (13-1, 9 ko) in another battle of prospects. The fight was on the undercard of a talent loaded event that included: Andrew Maynard, Sharma Mitchell, Lamar "Kidfire" Parks, and others with a WBO Middleweight battle between Doug Dewitt & Nigel Benn as the main event. Wangila shined winning a unanimous decision over 6 rounds!

   Robert came back about 6 weeks later with an easy 3rd round tko win over Jorge Hernandez, but just 6 weeks after that fight, he took his first loss in shocking fashion, being stopped by Puerto Rico's Eric Hernandez in 3 rounds.

   The loss was a setback, but his management team wasted no time getting him back into the ring 3 months later, and he looked sharp scoring a 2nd round tko over Calvin Meeks (10-2).

   Wangila was back on track and after 6 straight victories, with his pro record now standing at 19-1, he gave Buck Smith a rematch. Smith had been VERY busy and came into the rematch with a pro record of  91-2-2! Smith wanted badly to avenge one of his only 2 losses, and he came out blazing, stopping Wangila in round 2.

   Wangila was then stopped in his next fight by William Hernandez. Robert stepped away from the game for a while and after a year and 3 months, he returned to avenge that loss to Hernandez, stopping him in round 5 of the rematch.

   Wangila had a solid record at 21-3, and after a tune-up bout against Pedro Aguirre, he stepped in to face former Australian Welterweight champion, and world title contender - Troy Waters (21-3). Waters was coming off of a WBC world title challenge loss to Terry Norris. It was a great night for the Aussie as he scored a 6th round tko win over Wangila at the Great Western Forum in Inglewood, CA.

   Wangila would score his final victory with an 8 round unanimous decision over Mexico's Jesus Mayorga.

   Robert's final fight turned out to be a tragic event. He faced Houston's David Gonzalez (38-3-1) in a 10-round main event. The bout was a war, but Wangila was taking too much punishment, and referee Joe Cortez stopped the bout at 1:12 of the 9th round. Wangila protested, but later collapsed in his dressing room.  He died from injuries sustained during the bout.

   Robert "Kid" Wangila was a hard fighting fan favorite who gave his all each time out.  He never got a title shot, but fought on in the sport he loved and excelled at.  He finished with a pro record of: 22 Wins and 5 losses.  Winning 16 by knockout. Winning an Olympic Gold Medal, and the respect of boxing fans around the world.

Check out his complete pro ledger on: BOXREC.COM

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If you would like to see Robert Wangila in action, I have the following bouts available on DVD:

 

ROBERT WANGILA vs

SIDNEY GOMES                                [w-4] (Pro Debut)
ARIEL CONDE (aka- "Henry Perez") [ko-1]
BUCK SMITH #1                                 [w-6]
ANTHONY MARTINEZ                     [ko-5]
RODDY BLAKE                                  [tko-1]
ROBERTO GARCIA                            [tko-2]
RAMON FELIX                                    [tko-3]
CLARENCE WHITE                            [w-6]
ERIC HERNANDEZ                            [tko-by-6]
STEVE BARRERAS                            [tko-6]
BUCK SMITH #2                                 [tko-by-2]
TROY WATERS                                   [tko-by-6] {Vac WBB Jr. Middle}

Amateur:
Laurent Boudouani (France)                [rsc-2] (1988 Olympics)

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Contact me at: THE BOXING GURU vis E-MAIL

HARSH WORDS

 

Larry Holmes vs Michael Spinks #1 Post-fight Press Conference

 

Sept. 21, 1985

Las Vegas, Nevada

 

   Just hours after one of boxing’s most unexpected upsets, dethroned heavyweight king Larry Holmes stepped up to the microphone and expressed his thoughts. He had just lost the precious IBF heavyweight title which he held with an iron grip for over 7 years. It was his first loss as a professional, leaving him just 1 win short of tying the 49-0 record compiled by the great Rocky Marciano.

   As great as he was, few boxing experts really thought that undisputed Light Heavyweight champion Michael Spinks would be the man to dethrone the heavyweight king. It was a razor thin, but unanimous decision on scores of 145-142, 143-142, and 143-142 in favor of the new IBF heavyweight champion – Spinks.

   At the post-fight press conference, Holmes stepped up to the microphone and unleashed a calm and controlled, but obviously angry monologue aimed not at the man who dethroned him, but instead, his target was the late Rocky Marciano.

Larry Holmes: "…7 years, the heavyweight champion of the world. When most people like Howard Cosell, Gil Clancy, Cus D’amato said Larry Holmes would never be heavyweight champion. I went wrong somewhere and I became the heavyweight champion. I went wrong by beating every challenger that came. I went against all odds and became the heavyweight champion of the world.

   Coming into the last days of the fight I was kind of upset because of things that I was hearing from the Marciano family, especially his brother, kind of upset me. I think he’s back in the back. I never like to take anything away from a fighter, and I think his family owes me a great deal for bringing this man back to life – like I did - for years - I did. Not knowing anything about Rocky. Not trying to put him down but I would, and it’s so easy for me to do it. In spite of what anybody say, I do what I want, and this is probably why I lost. Because I say it like it is, and I will continue to say it until the day I die. I’m 35 years old fighting young men, and he was 25 years old fighting old men, I can easily put him down. And I can easily say – his brother in the back – he fought him. I mean, if you really, really want to get technical about the whole thing, Rocky couldn’t carry my jock strap."

   After a few more words, the ex-champ then aimed his anger at Rocky Marciano’s Brother – Peter Marciano who was in attendance.

Holmes:"If I hurt you back there Sonny, is your name Sonny? (he answered “My name is Peter”) Peter? If I hurt your feelings back there, So F***ing what? (Marciano tries to say something from the crowd) Wait, hold it, this is my show, and you have been invited by Caesar’s Palace. You are freeloading off of your brother even after he’s dead. Now, if it wasn’t for me, Peter, if it wasn’t for me, you would have never have been invited to Caesar’s Palace where all of your expenses are paid. You, (Peter Marciano shouts something back) no-no-no, face the truth you can go back to Boston, and wherever you come from with Steve Marantz and all the other people in Boston who I think are racist, and shove Boston up you’re a** because you can never do what I have done!

   Holmes went on to say that he did feel Marciano was one of the greatest fighters of all time.

Holmes: Let me explain to you all what I have said, try to explain to you, what I have said about Rocky. I say Rocky was one of the greatest fighters of all time. I says he probably - for anybody to accomplish a record with 49 fights, if he fought all bums, had to be somebody. I said, but some people question his record because of some dispute with his brother’s exhibitions in Massachusetts. I says but he had to be one of the greatest fighters of all time to accomplish a record as such.

   This is where you could sense a change in Holmes’ tone.  You could almost feel the anger leaving him as his words turned more respectful.

Holmes: And also I said. When Marciano was fighting. I wasn’t even a thought in my Father’s Penis. (A remark was heard from someone nearby) No, it’s true Ritchie. When he was fighting, I wasn’t even a thought. And, therefore, I didn’t know what kind of fighter he was. And just last year or two, I started finding out a little bit about Rocky Marciano. But, to leave you with a sense of relief. I think your brother was a great fighter. I think your brother went a long way, and I would have loved to have met him. And then, I’m sorry if you took that out of the wrong context. But I didn’t mean no harm by doing it. I wish I could have met him, and this is one of the reasons why I brought a forgotten fighter to work with me – in Archie Moore. Because when people get in that position, they’re forgotten about. And I didn’t want Rocky Marciano to be forgotten. And if I thought he was not a great fighter, his pictures wouldn’t be all over my walls in my hotel and my house. And I respect the man. And that’s what I’d like to say to you. And, if I hurt anybody’s feelings, I’m very sorry for doing that. But, I was giving my people something to look forward to in our lifetime. Thank you for listening to me, and I’m very sorry if I hurt your feelings.

   ESPN’s Jim Gray was there to cover the press conference, and he asked Peter Marciano about what was just expressed by the beaten champion.

Jim Gray: With me right now is Peter Marciano. Larry Holmes sounded quite bitter in the speech he was making about your brother, and he really had offended you and your family earlier in the week hadn’t he?

Peter Marciano: Yeah, he… the way I feel about it is, I have no hard feelings towards Larry. I just think that Larry never really knew about Rocky Marciano.

   They then paused to listen to a few more words from Holmes. They continued to take questions from the audience as Gray continued to interview Rocky’s brother.

Gray: Peter, let’s continue on that thought. He really had hurt your family’s feelings?

P. Marciano: Yes he did. He hurt my family terribly. I think it’s through a lack of knowledge. He seems to speak like Rocky fought a hundred years ago. He’s saying things like- some of Rocky’s fights were not legitimate, and that’s not true. I feel that if a man is going to respond or talk about someone, he should read about him and know about him, and that’s all I’m saying.

   It was a speech that started out stinging, but ended on a more respectful note. Unfortunately, what was spewed by the media was the line about not being able to “carry my Jock strap”.  The final words of praise given were hardly even mentioned in newsclips or reports.

   It was not even close to a retirement speech either.  Holmes went on to fight 26 more times, A full career for many pro fighters!  Going 21-5 after his first defeat against Michael Spinks.  His 5 losses in that stretch were all attempts to regain a world heavyweight title belt. He fought at a high level until his final fight (a victory) at age 53.

   Even though Holmes continued on with his Hall-of-Fame career, the remarks of that night in 1985 have followed him.  In 2007 Holmes told Reuter’s Steve Ginsburg: “All these years later, people just can’t forget that.” He went on to say: “It still haunts you. After all these years, people won’t let go.”

EDWARD PARKER

 Nickname: Pee Wee

   After a very successful run as an amateur boxer, Houston's Ed "Pee Wee" Parker turned pro on Sept. 11, 1985. Parker scored a 3rd round technical knockout over fellow Texan David Gonzalez.  Few knew it at the time, but it was a very tough way to start out his career, Gonzalez would go on to win the California State Lightweight title, the NABF Welterweight title, and would fight for the WBC Jr. Middleweight world title!  Parker's management must have believed in his skills because he was put in with some pretty high level opposition from the start. 

   Parker went 6-0 with 3 ko's before taking the rematch with David Gonzalez. It was another great matchup, but this time it was Gonzalez winning via 8 round decision.  Parker took his first loss in a very tough fight.

   2 fights later, Parker found his self fighting for his first title belt. Just a little over 1 year from his pro debut, the 7-1 Parker faced another Houston up-and-coming favorite - Ronald Haynes (13-2) for the Texas State Lightweight Title.The fight went the full 12 round distance, and it was Haynes getting the unanimous decision from the judges.

   After 2 more fights and two more wins against solid opponents (Sylvester Kennon, and Gerardo Velasquez) in Texas, Parker ventured out and began fighting in venues outside of his home state.

   Ed Parker set out to prove that he was more than just a "local favorite" and went on the road hoping to battle his way into world class contention.  

Fighting in California, New York, South Africa, New Jersey, and Tijuana Mexico, Parker proved his ability going 9-1-2 in that stretch against opponents with a combined record of 195-33-8! 

   Parker was invited to participate in the Jr. Lightweight tournament held by The Forum in Los Angeles. He shined as he stopped Oscar Gallegos (12-1) in 3 rounds, fought a majority draw - with 1 judge's card favoring Parker, and the other 2 having it a 95-95 draw, against Rogelio Lopez (16-9), knocking out Robert Byrd (19-2) in round 7 of the tournament semi-final, interesting side note: the Referee for that fight was.... Robert Byrd! ...And on Oct. 23, 1989 Ed "Pee Wee" Parker (18-3-2) faced off with Kenny Baysmore (25-2-2) for the Forum tournament championship. It was a wild affair going the full 12 rounds, and ending in a unanimous decision. One Judge had it 116-113,  the other two Judges saw it 116-112 all in favor of Ed Parker. Ed "Pee Wee" Parker wore the prestigious title proudly, and that performance propelled him into his next fight which would be a challenge for the vacant WBC Continental Americas Featherweight Championship. His opponent was rugged Abe Gomez (16-3-1) who was very popular in the Los Angeles area. This fight was also held at the "fabulous" Forum in Los Angeles where Parker himself had become quite popular after his dazzling performance in the Forum Tournament. The fight was televised nationally on the Prime Ticket network. As expected the fight was tough and went the full 12 rounds, but there was no doubt who was the clear winner. Ed Parker scored the unanimous decision victory on cards reading: Dr. James Jen Kin: 116-113, Vince Delgado: 117-111, and Robert Byrd: 118-107, all in favor of Ed Parker.

   After back-to-back title winning fights, just a month-and-a-half later, Parker defended his WBC Continental Americas title belt against veteran Refugio Rojas (35-17-1) at The Forum in Los Angeles. It was a successful defense, ending in a unanimous decision win for the defending champion Parker, but the ruling was changed to a "No Contest" after the champion failed post-fight testing. Parker broke down upon being told of the test results, but didn't give up, and 3 months later came back with a great, but losing effort against undefeated Frankie Mitchell (24-0), dropping a very close unanimous decision on scores of 97-93, and 96-94 x 2 in Reno, Nevada.

   Parker was an active fighter, and just under a month after his bruising war with Frankie Mitchell over 10 rounds, he scored a great win over former NABF champion, and WBA World title challenger - Jesus Poll by unanimous decision over 12 rounds.

 

   Taking 4 months off, Parker took on undefeated, and world ranked Jesse James Leija (15-0) in an all-Texas showdown bout at the Hemisfair Arena in San Antonio, Texas.  It was a wild night in front of an enthusiastic crowd. And after 10 tense, back-and-forth rounds, the Judges scorecards read: Vince Amaya 97-94 in favor of Leija, Jimmy Parks had it 98-96 going to Parker, and Judge Wilfredo Esperon saw the fight 96-96. Nothing was settled as the fight was declared a split Draw!

   Being the active fighting champion that he was, Parker came right back with a stretch against 4 world ranked fighters, going 0-2-2 against: Manuel "Mantecas" Medina (37-3), Rowdy Welch (12-1), Aladin Stevens (41-6-5), and Harold Warren (15-5). All of the fights ended in decisions, with the Welch bout ending as a "Technical Draw" after an accidental clash of heads in round 1.

   Parker's career went down hill after that.  Fighting 17 more times in about 8 years, but winning only once in that final stretch. Proving what a skilled and worthy fighter he was, Even though he was losing most of his bouts, he continued to fight high level opponents and became a "Gate-Keeper" because of his high skill level.

   Edward's final bout came on March 18, 1999, 13-and-a-half years after making his professional debut, losing a 4 round decision to Larry O'Shields (14-6-2) at the Sheraton in Houston Texas.

   If you look close at Parker's record, you will see that he didn't get many "easy" fights along the way. Of his 50 professional bouts, only 2 were against fighters that didn't have a winning record!  He fought often, and is always held in high regard when remembered by boxing fans.

   Parker ended with a final record of 22 wins, 21 losses, 6 draws, and 1 no contest, winning 9 by knockout. A very deceiving final tally for sure. Fighting well past his prime, and refusing to take "easy" fights.  

   We are honored to induct Edward "Pee Wee" Parker into our Hall-of-Fan-Favorites!

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If you would like to see Ed "Pee Wee" Parker in action, I have the following bouts available on DVD:

ED "Pee Wee" PARKER vs 

ABE GOMEZ [w-12] {WBA Cont-Am Feather}

REFUGIO ROJAS [NC-12] {WBA Cont-Am Feather}(*W-12-Parker, changed to N/C)

FRANKIE MITCHELL [L-10]

JESUS POLL  [w-12] (IBC Feather)

JESSIE JAMES LEIJA [Draw-10]

MANUEL MEDINA [L-10]

LOUIE ESPINOZA [ko-by-4]

Amateur:
Ronnie Rentz

 

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Contact The Boxing Guru via E-mail at: THE BOXING GURU

JOHNNY VASQUEZ

 Nickname: The Torch

   Phoenix Arizona's Johnny Vasquez turned professional May 1, 1989.  He was a successful amateur, and began his pro career with a 2nd round tko over Albuquerque's Chino Sanchez.

 

   He ran his record to 7-0, winning 5 by knockoout before being put in with another hot prospect, Las Vegas Nevada's Les "Fabulous" Fabri (11-1-2) on the undercard of Michael Carbajal/Tony DeLuca.  It was a close fight that went the full 8 rounds, but it was the light hitting/slick boxing Fabri that got the split decision win in the battle of promising southpaws.

 

   Johnny's first loss didn't slow him down at all.  It was a good showing against a respected and crafty boxer, and less than a month later, Vasquez returned with a unanimous decision win against another young hot-shot - El Salvador's Frank Avelar (6-1).  Johnny "The Torch" was back on track.

 

   After 5 more wins against relatively easy opposition, Vasquez stepped up for a chance at his first title belt. He would put his 13-1 record on the line against former WBC Continental America's Super Flyweight Champion - Roland Gomez (21-4). The bout was for the Bantamweight version of Gomez's former title, and it was a great night at the Pointe Resort in Phoenix as the local favorite put on an exhibition of boxing skill that earned him a clear and decisive unanimous decision win over the 12-round distance in front of a national television audience via Univision network. That win was followed 3 months later with another impressive win in his first title defense against a former holder of that title - Jorge Fuentes Martinez (14-4) via 7th round technical knockout.

   After a solid 10 round win over Lucilo Nolasco, Vasquez was named as the challenger for the USBA Bantamweight championship against undefeated Eddie Cook (14-0). It was an interesting matchup of two fringe contenders looking to make a move into world title contention.  The bout was televised on ESPN's Top Rank Boxing series. The champion had too much fire-power as he stopped Vasquez in round 7.  It was a mild setback for Johnny Vasquez, but it didn't derail his dreams.

   He was always willing to take on any challenge, and he bounced back in tough fashion, winning a 10 round unanimous decision over Pablo Valenzuela (21-4-3) and then followed that with a brutal match against highly regarded undefeated contender Rudy Zavala (15-0) which ended in an 8-round draw! That fight was so good a rematch was immediately made but this time it was for the vacant NABF Jr. Featherweight title belt. It was another great battle with plenty of back-and-forth action and when the scorecards were read, it was Zavala remaining unbeaten via close unanimous decision.

   Vasquez would next face a surprisingly tough Martin Gallegos of Mexico in a 10-round main event bout that went the distance in Johnny's favor.  The bout was so good that Gallegos was offered a return match, this time for the vacant Arizona State Featherweight title, and it was Vasquez who showed his class via 5th round tko, picking up another title belt.

Vasquez wins the Arizona State Title in rematch with Gallegos

    Vasquez would not fight for another title, but he did run off a 10-fight winning streak that included wins over World Title challeger - Eddie Rangel, and a majority decision win over rugged Vinnie Ponzio, before losing in his final professional bout against former WBA World Champion Israel Contreras.  That brutal bout turned out to be the final pro bout for both fighters.

   Johnny Vasquez ended his very active professional campaign, fighting 34 professional bouts in just 6 years.  His final record, an impressive 29 wins, 4 defeats, and 1 draw. He thrilled boxing fans with his busy and bold boxing style. Taking on any challenge, and always performed solidly. He was a well respected professional and we are glad to remember him here!

Check out Johnny's complete professional record: JOHNNY VASQUEZ - boxrec

If you would like to see Johnny "The Torch" Vasquez in action, I have the following bouts on DVD:

JOHNNY VASQUEZ vs

FRANK AVELAR                    [w-6] (*Not Complete: Rounds 1 & 2 of 6 ONLY)
VICTOR ROJAS                      [ko-1]
ROLAND GOMEZ                  [w-12] {WBC Cont Am Bantam}   
EDDIE COOK                          [tko-by-7] {USBA Bantam}   
RUDY ZAVALA #1                 [Draw-8]   
RUDY ZAVALA #2                 [L-12] {Vac NABF Jr. Feather}
MARTIN GALLEGOS #2       [ko-5] {Vac Arizona State Jr. Feather}
MARIO LOZANO #2              [tko-3]
MANUEL ROBLES                [w-8] (Rds. 6-8 of 8 ONLY) (*Dan Judge)
JESUS CHAVEZ                     [tko-2] {Vacant IBC Jr. Feather} (*Dan Judge)
EDDIE RANGEL                    [tko-6]
VINNIE  PONZIO                   [w-6]
ISRAEL CONTRERAS           [tko-by-9] (*Johnny Vasquez's LAST pro bout)

Amateur:
Fidel Briceno                   (82PALNatls)
Steve Young                    (87ABFNatls)

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Contact me via e-mail: The Boxing Guru via E-Mail

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ROBERT DAVIS

 

Nickname: Desert Storm

   Akron Ohio's Robert C. Davis Jr. was successful in the amateur ranks and turned professional at what is considered a "late age" - in 1997.  He was 26 years old when he made his professional Debut - a first round knockout of fellow Ohioan Don Davis at a place called "The Trap Nightclub" in Nashville, TN.

   The U.S. Military Veteran known as "Desert Storm" ran his record up to 14-0, with 8 knockouts and got his first big test in highly regarded Sherman "The Tank" Williams (13-2) at the Grand Casino in Tunica, MS. Davis passed his test with flying colors as he stopped "The Tank" in round 5 of a bout scheduled for 8 rounds.  It was a big win that opened the door onto the stage of heavyweight Prospect-to-Contenders for Robert Davis. From this point on, the level of competition was raised.

   Less than 2 months later, Davis was put in with 46 fight respected journeyman - Reggie Miller (27-15-1) and it was no problem for Robert who dispatched Miller in the first round.

   After a great 4 fight win streak that included knockout victories over Don Hellyer (9-5), Tom Glesby (24-1-1), Wes Martin (11-21-8), and a 10-round shutout victory over previously unbeaten Charles Shufford (13-0), Robert was now 20-0 and would get his first shot at a title belt.

   April 1, 2000 was the night, and The Regent hotel & casino in Las Vegas, NV was the place. Robert "Desert Storm" Davis stepped in to face former WBF Inter-Continental Heavyweight Champion Keith McKnight (38-2) for the Interim NABF Heavyweight Championship. It was no April Fool's joke as Davis KO'd McKnight in round 5 to win that title belt. 

   Nearly 3 months later, the unbeaten contending heavyweight faced off with former world champion - Greg Page (57-15-1). Page's world of experience and former world champion status made this a huge test for Davis. Some felt Robert was not ready for such a leap, but he proved them wrong, stopping the former WBA champion in the 8th round!

   After picking up a title belt, and defeating a former world champion, it was now time for a cross-roads battle between two up-and-comers. Oct. 7, 2000 saw Davis fight on HBO's "After Dark" series at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, CT against another fighter that had the boxing world buzzing - Lance "Mount" Whitaker (21-1, 16 ko). The 6' 8" Whitaker had only 1 defeat on his record - a split razor-thin decision loss to Lou Savarese. It was a night of  Heavyweights that featured on the same card: Kirk Johnson, Oleg Maskaev, Gerald Nobles, Vaughn Bean and Taurus Sykes as the boxing world tried to sort out the bottle-neck of rising heavyweight prospects & contenders. The fight was highly anticipated, but did not end well for Davis who suffered a ruptured ear-drum en route to being stopped in the 2nd round by the heavy handed Whitaker.  Robert Davis had suffered his first loss.

   Disappointed by his performance against Whitaker, he went 6-4 against some very strong heavyweights in the 10 fight stretch following the Whitaker fight, among the boxers in that stretch: Michael Moorer (L-10), Terrence Lewis twice (tko-by-9, and w-10), Sedreck Fields (ko-1), Monte Barrett (L-10), and Frankie Swindell (w-10).  The strength of opposition was enough to earn Robert another title shot.

   June 24, 2003 saw Davis head out to Joe Mesi's home town of Buffalo, NY for a shot at the vacant NABF Heavyweight Title. Mesi was 25-0, and he was a pretty big favorite to win this one in front of his rabid home-town fans. That is exactly what happened as Mesi scored the tko in round 1 to win that vacant title belt.

   Davis would fight 9 more times after that, going 4-5. He got one more shot at a title belt when he traveled to New Zealand to take a shot at Shane Cameron's (22-1) IBF Pan-Pacific Heavyweight title. Davis took him into deep water, but it was Cameron scoring the tko in round 11. Robert fought his final fight on Sept. 12, 2009, against El Paso, Texas' David "Nino" Rodriguez (31-0) being stopped in round 3 of a fight that took place in Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico.

   Sadly, Robert was diagnosed with Leukemia, and lost his battle with that disease in 2014,  just 5 years after his final pro boxing match.

   An amazing journey that lasted better than two decades in the ring!  Davis faced some outstanding opponents, fought for titles, won a title and brought lots of excitement to his fans around the world!

 

Check out Robert's complete record on: BOXREC.COM - ROBERT DAVIS

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If you would like to see Robert "Desert Storm" Davis in action, I have the following bouts available on DVD:

ROBERT DAVIS vs

FELTON HAMILTON             [w-4]
REGGIE MILLER                   [tko-1]
TOM GLESBY                        [tko-5]
CHARLES SHUFFORD         [w-10] (*Missing Rd. 1)
KEITH MCKNIGHT               [ko-5] {Interim NABF Heavy}
GREG PAGE                            [tko-8]
LANCE WHITAKER              [tko-by-2]
MICHAEL MOORER              [L-10]
TERRENCE LEWIS #2           [w-10]
MICHAEL GRANT                  [tko-by-3]
JOE MESI                                 [tko-by-1]
AUDLEY HARRISON             [tko-by-7]
DAVID RODRIGUEZ              [tko-by-3] (* Robert Davis LAST Pro Bout)

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Contact: THE BOXING GURU via E-Mail

 

 

JOE HIPP

 

 Nickname: THE BOSS

   Joe Hipp opened his career against Steve Cortez on August 29, 1987 at the County Fairgrounds in Eugene, Oregon. His pro debut bout was on the undercard of Leon Spinks vs Jim Ashard.  Hipp dropped Cortez in the first round, and cruised on to a 4 round unanimoous win.  He would lose his next bout against Veti Katoa, after suffering a fractured jaw and having the bout stopped by the rinside physician.

The Southpaw heavyweight Hipp started at 1-1, and that is when he went on a 16-fight winning streak that included two wins over the man who handed Joe his only loss - Veti Katoa - winning a 5 round decision in their 2nd meeting, and then sealing it with a 3rd round tko stoppage in the 3rd and final fight of the trilogy.

   That winning streak included wins over Cleveland Woods, Sean McClain, and fellow Montana Native, and former IBF World Cruiserweight champion Marvin Camel.

Joe Hipp fought for his first title belt on Jan. 14. 1991. He challenged Mike Cohen (30-16) for the WBF Intercontinental title and won it with a 4th round knockout. It was a "minor" title, but it was his first shot at a title belt, and he wore it proudly!

   Joe Hipp now had a glossy record (18-1), a title belt, and it was time to step him up onto the big stage of heavyweights.  This process was started with a matchup against hard hitting former world title challenger - David "Bomber" Bey (17-7), and Hipp handled him in impressive fashion, disposing of Bey with a 7th round tko. He then stopped Billy Duncan, and scored another big win against Cleveland Woods via 1sr round knockout.  Joe now stood at 21-1 winning 15 by knockout.

   After 4 years of campaigning and gaining recognition as a probable world title challenger, Hipp was put in against another top contender - "Smokin' " Bert Cooper. The date was 10/18/91 and it was a featured undercard bout of the Ray Mercer/Tommy Morrison showdown. Hipp and Cooper went to war just as expected, but the heavy hands of Cooper battered the face of Hipp, the fight was stopped in round 5 when the swelling around Hipps eyes became too bad, his vision was affected, and the Ringside Doctor called a halt to the bout.

   It was a brutal fight, and a hard pill to swallow for the red-hot contender. It took a few months of healing, but Hipp was back in the ring with a "test bout" against  journeyman, John "Big Red" Morton, Hipp ko'd Morton in round 3. He was then put in against highly regarded prospect Kevin Ford (11-1) at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada. This was on a card that featured some top heavyweight talent including: Lennox Lewis vs Levi Billups, and Michael Moorer vs Mike "The Giant" White. Hipp shined with a near shutout win over Ford on scores of 80-71, 80-72, and 79-72.

      Next up was a battle with the well regarded, Jesse Shelby. Shelby was coming off of a 10 round Technical Decision loss to Orlin Norris for the vacant NABF Cruiserweight championship.  It was a great night for Hipp who had control of the bout en route to a 10 round unanimous decision victory. This win really boosted Hipp's credibility as a contender, and he would find his self in a massive showdown against another top level contender.

June 27, 1992 - the date that Joe Hipp stepped in to go punch-for-punch with red-hot knockout machine Tommy "The Duke" Morrison.  Morrison's only loss to this date was in a big matchup of undefeated rising heayweights against U.S. Olympic Gold Medalist Ray Mercer. Tommy was 32-1, winning 28 by

Morrison vs Hipp - A WAR from start to finish!

knockout. Hipp came in at 24-2 and it was a very anticipated matchup which would launch the winner into the upper atmosphere. The bout was televised nationally by ABC and it was a memorable crowd pleaser of a battle! Both men were damaged in this one. Hipp was bruised & battered with his right eye closing, he was knocked down in rounds 5 & 9, and suffered a fractured cheek bone. Morrison left the fight banged up too, suffering a broken jaw during the encounter. It was a WAR, but it was Morrison who was able to bring forth the power for the knockout, coming out on top with a 9th round stoppage! In the post-fight interview, Hipp said that he felt if he was able to continue, he would have been able to wear Morrison down for the decision victory. His confidence was definitely not shattered.

   Joe would come back strong, winning 6 straight against some high level opponents: A rematch with Kevin Ford (14-2), tricky Keith "Sir-Jab-a-Lot" Mcmurray, A dominating 12-round unanimous decision win over Alex Garcia (34-3-1) to win the NABF Heavyweight Title, A defense of that title against hard hitting Jose Ribalta (33-11-1), a hard fought split decision over Rodolfo Marin (20-2), and a 3rd round stoppage of Phillip Brown (33-11-2). With his record polished up a bit and now standing at 30-3, and back in the top-10 rankings, Joe got the call he dreamed about. A shot at The WBA Heavyweight title held by "The Atlantic City Express" Bruce Seldon (32-3). The MGM Grand in Las Vegas, NV was the venue, and the fight was a not the most crowd pleasing as Hipp plodded forward, and Seldon stuck-and-moved around the ring.  Hipp tried to apply pressure, Seldon used his hand speed and movement to control the bout. Seldon piled up the points, and the punches tore up the face of Hipp, with his eyes swelling shut, and a tear on the flesh of his left cheekbone, Referee Richard Steele did the right thing, and stopped the fight in round 10.

   Hipp returned to the ring and put together a 10-1 streak, mostly against 2nd level opposition, although he had some nice wins in that run including wins over Fred Houpe, Will Hinton, and Marcus Rhode, and his loss to Ross Puritty which was considered a mild upset.

   After nearly a dozen years as a professional boxer, Joe Hipp got his chance at a World title belt. June 25, 1999 Hipp was given a chance to face 51 fight veteran Everett "Big Foot" Martin. Martin was a Journeyman boxer who would no doubt be the underdog in this title bout, but he had scored some amazing upsets along his journey, including wins over Derrick Roddy, Bert Cooper, and Tim Witherspoon. Hipp could not afford to take "Big Foot" lightly.  Joe came in at 262 pounds, the 2nd heaviest of his career. It didn't matter. Hipp's skills showed as he gave a workmanlike performance and won the 12-round bout via unanimous decision. Hipp earned the WBF championship on this night.

   Joe came back 6 months later but a knee injury in round 5 against Jeff Pegues resulted in a tko loss. Joe would return nearly 4 years later for 2 fights in 2003. He went 1-1, and then in 2005 he would fight his final match. At nearly 43 years old Joe won a majority decision over 6 rounds against Ted Reiter. Joe "The Boss" Hipp ended his career as he started it, with a win. That fight was held at the Clearwater River Casino in Lewiston, Idaho.

   Joe Hipp's amazing journey was over.  He ended his 18-year professional boxing campaign with a final record of: 43 Wins, 7 Losses, and won 29 by Knockout.  A winning, and very impressive record from a heavyweight that was no doubt a fan favorite!  This proud Native American Warrior was durable, powerful, had the heart of a champion, and he was a winner. The very definition of a "Blue Collar Fighter"!

Check out Joe's complete Ledger on Boxrec: JOE HIPP'S COMPLETE RECORD

Contact me at: THE BOXING GURU via E-MAIL

 

I have the following bouts on DVD:

 

JOE HIPP vs

 SEAN MCCLAIN            [tko-4]
DAVID BEY                      [tko-7]
CLEVELAND WOODS   [ko-1]
    BERT COOPER                   [tko-by-5]
JESSE SHELBY                [w-10]
TOMMY MORRISON           [tko-by-9]
KEVIN FORD #2               [w-10]
                                 ALEX GARCIA                   [w-12] {NABF Heavy Title}
                                 JOSE RIBALTA                  [ko-2] {NABF Heavy Title}
RODOLFO MARIN           [w-10]
PHILLIP BROWN             [tko-3]
                                   BRUCE SELDON                   [tko-by-10] {WBA Heavy Title}
  ROSS PURITTY                 [ko-by-10]

Other Stuff:
a) 2008 Exhibition bout vs unidentified  opponent  (2 Min. of footage)

 

 

 

 

ANDREW COUNCIL

 Nickname: "Council of War"

   Washington D.C.'s Andrew Council opened his pro boxing career on Nov. 14, 1990 and started with a 1st round knockout win over fellow DC'er Michael Duncan.

   He won his next fight and at 2-0, he was put in a battle of young east coast unbeatens against Brooklyn, NY's Lonnie Davis (3-0) on the undercard of Frank Tate vs Uriah Grant.  Council took his first loss by a unanimous decision over 4 rounds.

   Andrew was now 2-1, and he came back with a unanimous 6-round decision win over 26-fight veteran Robert Sawyer. It was a 2nd round knockout win over Mark Simmons who also came into that fight with amark of 3-1, and then a surprising draw against South Africa's Mpush Makambi, followed by a mild upset loss to tough and well respected Ricky "Time Bomb" Thomas by decision.  Council's place in the landscape of possible title contenders looked a little unclear as he now stood at 4-2-1.

   Council's record may have been mediocre, but everyone knew that he still held great promise, and he shined in a 14-0-1 run which included a 2nd round knockout win over unbeaten Patrick "The Wrath of" Cann (5-0), and a draw over 6 rounds in an attempt to avenge his first loss to Lonnie Davis who was now 5-0.

   July 1, 1994 was the night that Council took a big step up in class as he squared off with the battle tested and very popular "Tough" Tony Marshall (16-3-4) in a 10-round showdown of contending Jr. middleweights.  It was a very close fight, and after 10 rounds the 3 judges could not determine a winner. Judge Myra Grant saw it 97-93 for Marshall, Judge Bill Nealon saw it 96-95 for Council, and Judge Ron Greenley scored it 95-95, a 3-way split draw! Coucil did not get the "win", but the bout was televised nationally on espn, and it put a spotlight on the skills of Andrew Council, raising his stock in the division, and earning him a shot at the vacant USBA Jr. Middleweight title against Keith Holmes.

   Just about 11 weeks later, Council found his self in the ring going for his first title belt against one of the top rated contenders in the world, Keith Holmes, who came into the fight with a record of 23-1, with 15 knockouts. It was a huge step up for Council, but he had proven his self to be ready for this challenge. It was a good hard fight, maybe too hard - as Council was penalized 3 points for low blows. Those points deductions didn't help Andrew's cause as Holmes took the title belt via unanimous decision on scores of 115-111, 114-110, and 117-108. A good showing against one of the world's top contenders. These two would meet again down the road, and next time it would be for even higher stakes.

   Council's performances put him into the top 20, and after back-to-back impressive wins against highly regarded Anthony Ivory and Tim Dendy, followed by 2 easy victories, Andrew Council got the ultimate step-up showcase bout against former IBF Jr. Welterweight, and former WBC Welterweight king - James Buddy Mcgirt (67-4-1) in a 10 round main event televised nationally on CBS network.

Council's big win against James Buddy McGirt on CBS television

   Council came in as the underdog against the former 2-time world champion - Mcgirt. There was talk of a McGirt/Roy Jones Jr. matchup after this fight.  But... things sometimes don't go as planned, and that was the case here as Council shined, dropping McGirt in the 7th, and stopping him in round 9 for the unexpected technical knockout victory! A huge career boosting win for the contender.

   Council was red hot, and followed up with two first round knockout victories over two tough well respected journeymen fighters.  With a shiny record of 25-3-3, and having defeated Buddy McGirt, Council was given his 2nd shot at a title belt. March 5, 1996 saw Andrew step in against defending NABF Jr. Middleweight champion Ronald "Winky" Wright (33-1). Council was certainly an underdog in this 2nd shot at a title, but he was expected to give the slick boxing Winky Wright a real challenge in defending his title. It was a good matchup, but in the end Wright was just too hard of a puzzle for Council to solve.  The defending champion - Wright - held onto his title by unanimous decision on scores of 116-112, 116-111, and a surprising score that most at ringside did not agree with of 118-109. It was another one of those losses that really doesn't hurt you that much.  He showed well against one of the most avoided boxers in the division, and after two knockout wins against two more respected journeymen fighters, he was called on for another high level matchup, this time  it was against former USBA Middleweight champion - Robert Allen (18-2, 14 ko). It would be a step up in weight too, with the contest set at the full Middleweight limit of 160 Lbs. And, Council would have to travel to Shreveport, Louisiana - the state where Allen was born. Even though the fight was not for a title, it was scheduled for 12 rounds, and it went the distance.  But it was the 1992 U.S. Amateur Champion - Robert Allen getting the unanimous verdict by the three judges.

   Council's willingness to step up and face a world ranked middleweight, and then performing so well against a top contender, was rewarded with a 3rd title shot. A WORLD title shot! November 19, 1997 saw Andrew Council step in to challenge one of the most skilled boxers on the planet - defending IBF Middleweight Champion Bernard "The Executioner" Hopkins (32-2-1) for his cherished world championship belt. This was the 6th title defense by Hopkins who had also held the USBA Middleweight Title before winning the world title. Hopkins had only lost twice, his first loss was in his professional debut where he dropped a majority decision to New York Light Heavyweight Clinton Mitchell in 4 rounds, and then would not lose again until challenging Roy Jones Jr. for the vacant IBF title. Hopkins would later get that belt via 7th round knockout against Segundo Mercado. 

Council's first World Title shot vs Bernard Hopkins

  After a campaign that spanned 7 years, Council knew this might be his one and only shot at a world title belt. Hopkins proved to be on another level as the boxing legend dominated the fight over 12 rounds on scores of 118-106 x 2, and 119-105. It was a near perfect performance by the man who is considered destined for the International Boxing Hall-of-Fame. 

   

 

 

 

 

   

   As he had done after losing in his 2 previous title challenges, Council followed up with impressive victories over some high level opponents.  First was a 10 round win over journeymen Benji Singleton, and then two much bigger wins against Michael Ward (24-3), followed by a 2nd round knockout over Floyd Williams (29-9-1) in Tunica, Mississippi.

   With a record of 30-6-3, and some big names on his resume' - Andrew Council got one last chance at wearing a world title belt around his waist. He would also get a chance to avenge a loss that he could not accept after having 3 points deducted for unintentional low blows against Keith Holmes who was now the WBC World Middleweight champion. With both fighters being from the Washington, D.C. area and fighting in front of their local fans at the MCI Arena, the crowd was totally into this one. The challenger Andrew Council came out fast, and had the fans getting behind the underdog, but as the round moved along, it became clear that Keith Holmes would be too much, and then to make matters worse, with both guys landing some heavy stuff, Council was knocked down at the end of round 9 landing face down, but getting up at the count of 8 looking shaky and being saved by the bell. Council showed the heart of a champion causing the Referee to deduct a point from Holmes in round 10 as the champion was penalized for holding to stop the aggressive attack of Andrew Council, who had been badly hurt in round 9, but refused to fold. After 12 rounds it was Keith Holmes who had his hand raised in victory on scores of 117-109, 116-110, and 116-109. Once again, Council proved that he could test the world class fighters of the division, he was once again unable to take a title from them.

   Andrew would step away from the ring wars for 4 years, but he would return at age 36 to make one more run at it. He scored a win over James McCallister (9-3-1) by unanimous decision over 8 rounds, before fighting his last bout on Oct. 31, 2003 - dropping a 10-round unanimous decision to very popular Michigan favorite Troy Rowland in his opponents home town of Grand Rapids, Michigan.

   Andrew finished his 13 year pro campaign with a fine record of  31 wins, 8 losses, and 3 draws. Winning 20 by knockout!  He twice challenged for World Titles, as well as title challenges for both the NABF and USBA Title belts. His upset win against James Buddy McGirt was a great upset, and the man they called "Council of War" never disappointed boxing fans with his gutsy, aggressive performances! We are honored to induct him as a member of The Boxing Guru's "Hall-of-Boxing-Fan-Favorites"!

Check out Andrew's complete Record: ANDREW COUNCIL COMPLETE PRO LEDGER ON BOXREC

 

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Available in The Boxing Guru's Collection (DVD):

ANDREW COUNCIL vs

RICKY THOMAS                                [L-4]
TONY MARSHALL                            [Draw-10]
KEITH HOLMES #1                           [L-12] {USBA Jr. Middle Title}
JAMES BUDDY MCGIRT                  [tko-9]
RONALD "WINKY" WRIGHT          [L-12] {NABF Jr. Middle Title}
BERNARD HOPKINS                        [L-12] {IBF Middle Title}
MICHAEL WARD                               [w-10]
KEITH HOLMES #2                           [L-12] {WBC Middle Title}

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