Big Fight Weekend

A WILD weekend of action in the ring has conculuded and we're ready to talk Terence Crawford's tremendous performance in an upset decision win over fellow future hall of famer Canelo Alvarez in Las Vegas Saturday night. We cover that bout, the undercard, a world title win for .... Lewis Crocker?... yes... and oh, Naoya "The Monster" Inoue on Sunday also. It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael, who was in Vegas for all the action to give their insightThey Recap Saturday's Zuffa show in Las Vegas on Netflix main event as super middleweight new champ Terence Crawford outfought Canelo Alvarez and wins the undisputed title super middleweight belts. How did Crawford pull this off? Where does this win put "Bud" in history of the sport? Dan has all the insights from being inside Allegiant Stadium.Dan has more on the under card with Callum Walsh defeating Fernando Vargas Jr. and THE all action fight of the night saw super middleweight Christian Mbilli in a draw  Lester Martinez that keeps his WBC interim 168 lb title.Dan also talks Mohammed Alakel W10 Travis Kent Crawford  And, Brandon Adams stuns Serhii Bohachuk in a rematch and Ivan Dychko defeats Jermaine Franklin in an awful, heavyweight opener. Next, they recap Saturday's Matchroom Boxing main event in Belfast, Northern Ireland on DAZN Lewis Crocker defeates Paddy Donovan in their rematch over 12 rounds, for the vacant IBF welterweight title. How did Crocker pull this off, when many (including us) thought Donovan would KO him?And we wratp with the recap of the Sunday Ohashi Promotions battle in Nagoya, Japan that saw Naoya Inoue dominate Murodjon Akhmadaliev over 12 rounds and keeps the undisputed 122 lb. ttiles. Just how great is the guy, "the Monster?!"   Sadly, our final item is the untimely death of Hall of Fame former junior welterweight and welterweight champion Ricky Hatton at age 46. We have the latest and Dan reminisces about Hatton's in ring accomplishments and dealing with him personally at many of his fights.It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

We are ready to go for the Canelo Alvarez-Terence Crawford mega showdown in Vegas Satuday night on the newest edition of our "Big Fight Weekend Preview" show and podcast.Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael, who is in Vegas, did this show as a live broadcast on our Youtube channel. And, now you are hearing it on podcast!They Preview Saturday's Zuffa Boxing card at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Netflixwith Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford, for Alvarez's undisputed super middleweight title. The guys discuss. Also, Callum Walsh vs. Fernando Vargas Jr., 10 rounds, junior middleweights Christian Mbilli vs. Lester Martinez, 10 rounds, for Mbilli's WBC interim super middleweight title and Mohammed Alakel vs. Travis Kent Crawford, 10 rounds, junior lightweightsSerhii Bohachuk vs. Brandon Adams, rematch, 10 rounds, middleweights  Then, hear Dan one on one in conversation with Canelo from earlier this week in advance of the showdown with Crawford.Next, they also preview Saturday's Matchroom Boxing DAZN at Windsor Park, Belfast, Northern IrelandLewis Crocker vs. Paddy Donovan, rematch, for vacant IBF welterweight title. Donovan was dominating last time before he got DQ'ed knocking down Crocker just after the bell. What happens in the second fight?And, a preview of Sunday's Ohashi Promotions card in Nagoya, JapanNaoya Inoue vs. Murodjon Akhmadaliev, for Inoue's undisputed junior featherweight title. The "Monster" is back, but will he get a test in the defense? We finish with fight newsRising British junior welterweifght star Adam Azim has has re-signed with Boxxer after rampant speculation about where he might go following the end of Boxxer's deal with broadcaster Sky Sports and new deal with BBC, the company announced on Thursday.  Former featherweight and junior lightweight titlist Oscar Valdez, coming off his lackluster decision over   Ricky Medina in their 130-pound bout this past Saturday in a Nogales, Mexico, homecoming fight but, had an MRI on his injured shoulder and was diagnosed two partial ruptures  Undisputed women's flyweight champion Gabriela Fundora will face late-replacement Alexas Kubicki, who has stepped in for Ayelen Granadino, on Sept. 20. Granadino is out because she could not secure a visa to come to the United States from Argentina.   Hear it all on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview" Show/Podcast here on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

It was an interesting weekend all the way around with fight cards in Ireland and two in Mexico and we have those recaps, plus, there's plenty of fight news, including two legends that are apparently going to fight despite being some 80 lbs apart?! Yes, indeed and we'll cover it on the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast."Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and Newsletter to cover it all with their thoughts.First, they recap the Matchroom main event Saturday on DAZN in Los Mochis, MexicoJunior lightweight Eduardo “Sugar” Nunez decisions Christopher Diaz and retains his IBF title. TREMENDOUS FIGHT says Dan. They have more. Next, the Recap of the Zanfer Promotions main event Saturday on ESPN Deportes in Nogales, MexicJunior lightweight and former two division world champ Oscar Valdez decisions Ricky Medina, and rebounds from his KO loss to Navarrete in their title rematch. Plus, a quick recap of the Wasserman Boxing main event on Friday in Dublin, IrelandFeatherweight former title challenger Michael Conlan scores an easy TOK4 of Jack Bateson.Then, some NewsFloyd Mayweather and Mike Tyson sign for spring exhibition!! WHAT ARE WE DOING HERE!?!Queensberry formally announces Joseph Parker vs. Fabio Wardley heavyweight fight for Oct. 25 at The O2 in London on DAZN PPV. Presser on Tuesday in London. Winner is Usyk mandatory. And, Frank Warren confirms rising heavyweight star Moses Itauma will be back Dec.13 to headline at Co-op Live in Manchester, England. Opponent TBA.Eddie Hearn confirms Anthony Joshua, who is recovering from elbow surgery, won't fight the rest of this year and will likely return Jan/Feb and there is interest in him fighting in Ghana.This is wild – WBC held a purse bid on Friday for the rematch between cruiserweight titlist Badou Jack and former titlist Noel Mikaelian. Two bids and it was a tie!!! The WBC said that has never happened before. Made them bid again and Bash Promotions won!It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

We're back after Labor Day Weekend off (and without much boxing) because two separate main events are happening in different Mexican cities Saturday. And, the WBC's top junior miiddleweight joins us too on the 'Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and Newsletter to go over it all.First, they preview Saturday's Matchroon main event in Los Mochis, Mexico on DAZNEduardo “Sugar” Nunez defends his IBF 130 lb. title vs. veteran Christopher Diaz. Is Nunez ready to rock and roll in this one in his hometown? Plus, what is waiting for him, if he does? Then, a Preview of Satuday's Zanfer card in Nogales, Mexico, on ESPN Deportes in USAOscar Valdez returns vs. Ricky Medina, 10 rounds, lightweights. Does Oscar have much left? Next it's big Dan's interview with junior middleweight contender Serhii BohachukHe risks his WBC 154 mandatory status, as he looks to avenge a 2021 TKO loss to Brandon Adams in a rematch on the upcoming Sept. 13 Canelo-Crawford undercard.Then, some NewsSuper middleweight contender Jaime Munguia will not face any disciplinary action stemming from a positive drug test related to his unanimous decision win against Bruno Surace in their rematch on May 3; ruled contamination  I'm sorry what?! Dan has more.A fight is in works between interim heavyweight titleholders Joseph Parker and Fabio Wardley for Oct. 25 at O2 in London. It's definitely a bigger risk for Parker, who stands to be elevated to full WBO champ or also get a shot a Oleksandr Usyk, Yet, he's fighting the big punching Wardley.Next, lineal/WBO junior welterweight champion Teofimo Lopez and WBC lightweight titlist Shakur Stevenson have been in talks with Turki Alalshikh and his team about a fight targeted for a Riyadh Season card in January. It isn't done, yet, and is a hang up that one or both fighters might want the bout in the U.S.There was a presser in LA on Wednesday to officially announce the October 25 "PBC on Prime Video" PPV at MGM Grand in Las Vegas:--Sebastian Fundora vs. Keith Thurman, for Fundora's WBC junior middleweight title--O'Shaquie Foster vs. Stephen Fulton, for Foster's WBC junior lightweight title--Jesus Ramos vs. Shane Mosley Jr., for vacant WBC interim middleweight title--Isaac Lucero vs. TBA, 10 rounds, junior middleweightsThe guys discuss the interesting parts of the presser and the bouts.And, finally, Juan Orengo's Fresh Productions, the promoter for WBC junior welterweight titlist Subriel Matias, won the purse bid on Tuesday for the promotional rights to his mandatory defense against Dalton Smith, so wont be on Turki Alashikh's big Nov 22 card in Riyadh.It's all part of the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

It's another light week for fights in the ring but we have plenty of news and some GREAT nostalgia involving "Money' Mayweather, etc. on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael to start off Labor Day weekend with the insight and takes.They tallk first about the only main event fight of note in the U.S. as it's the return of Sadam Ali, 2008 US Olympian and former WBO junior middleweight titlist, on Sunday. He faces club fighter Cody Wilson in a 10-round junior middleweight bout in Detroit. Dan has more.Then, we have news:Turki Alashikh and his team looking to finalize a fight between lineal/WBO junior welterweight champion Teofimo Loepz and WBC lightweight titlist Shakur Stevenson, who would move up in weight, for a fight eyed for January. Is this the best move for Shakur? And, how realistic is this fight for the USA instead of Saudi Arabia?Next, Turki and Ring announced launch of a new monthly boxing series on DAZN called “The Underdog.” The first card will take place Sept.11 at Fontainebleau Las Vegas ahead as part of Canelo-Crawford fight week. Opening show will be headlined by Anthony Olascuaga defending the WBO flyweight title vs. mandatory challenger Juan Carlos Camacho. We have the latestHeavyweight Dillian Whyte said he plans to continue boxing despite suffering a harsh first-round knockout loss to Moses Itauma on Aug. 16. T.J. compares him to another heavyweight that like Whyte is more famous for being knocked out by prominent fighters than anything else. And, promoter Sampson Lewkowicz, bidding on behalf of Premier Boxing Champions, won Tuesday's purse bid for the IBF final heavyweight title eliminator between Efe Ajagba and Frank Sanchez. Dan explains whether this fight will actually happen or not? Then, we have good NostalgiaAugust 26, 2017 – 8 years ago on Tuesday – Floyd Mayweather TKO10 Conor McGregor as Floyd ended a two-year retirement to handily stop McGregor, who was crossing over from UFC to boxing, in the second-biggest money fight ever. Big Dan was ringside and recalls all of the circus leading up to the fight. Plus, the fight made TONS of $$ and Mayweather became 50-0. We discuss it in detail.Hear it all on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview" and follow/subscribe to this podcast feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

It was another light weekend in the ring, but we have the recap of the MVP show in Orlando, FL, including an upset in a wild junior middleweight bout. That and some interesting fight news are all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast."Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and Newsletter. They have takes on it allStarting with the recap of Saturday's MVP/DAZN cardFlyweight Yankiel Rivera draw with Angelino Cordova, for vacant WBA interim title leads, but this fight a "stink bomb."Bigger was the junior middleweight battle with Abass Baraou and Yoenis Tellez, won by Baraou and he's now the WBA interim champ. The final round was also fantastic and the guys discuss it all.  Also, lightweight Lucas Bahdi decisioned Roger Gutierrez and wins a WBA eliminator bout. And, from Friday night MVP/DAZN cardHeavily touted junior lightweight Jahmal Harvey, a 2024 U.S. Olympian, won his pro debut by first-round TKO. Dan has more on his potential. Next, some news:Canelo Alvarez posts photos of "Boots" Ennis in camp sparring with him. Interesting stuff to say the least. We discuss. Plus, Nevada State Athletic Commission selected the Canelo-Crawford referee and judges. Also, the guys also discuss the moving of the UNLV college footall game from Allegiant Stadium in Vegas and what they got financially from TKO Promotions to switch their game to this weekend.  Moving on, one time heavyweight contender Ike Ibeabuchi, now 52 years old and out of the ring for 26 years (much of it spent in prison), returned to the ring Saturday night in Lagos, Nigeria. He stopped Idris Afinni (now 18-9-2) in the third round. Dan reminisces on Ibeabuchi.Also, speaking of the heavyweights, the Jarrell Miller-Michael Hunter heavyweight bout that was supposed to be September 11th in Las Vegas on a card during Canelo Alvarez-Terence Crawford fight week has been canceled. We go through the typical boxing shennanigans that include... 94 year old Don King being involved. And, we wrap up with former WBA junior lightweight titlist Hector Luis Garcia announcing his retirement earlier in the week.It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe to this feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

In late August it's another light weekend, but we have plenty of fight news to go over and more on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael to go over it all.First, a preview of the Saturday MVP card on DAZN in OrlandoYankiel Rivera meets Angelino Cordova, 12 rounds, for the vacant WBA interim flyweight title andYoenis Tellez vs. Abass Baraou, 12 rounds, for Tellez's WBA interim junior middleweight title. They are solid fights, even if the WBA is a joke with secondary titles, and the guys go over it. Next, some news:Jake Paul and Gervonta Davis announce an exhibition bout November 14th on Netflix at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. We will say... WHAT ARE WE DOING HERE?!Some notable fights in process of being made or made at 154:Sebastian Fundora- Keith Thurman, Vergil Ortiz Jr.-Erickson Lubin, Bahkram Mutazaliev-Josh Kelly, Serhei Bohachuk- Brandon Adams rematch all upcoming. We have the latest.Top Rank announces a contract extension with WBO welterweight titlist Brian Norman Jr.Daniel Dubois fires trainer Don Charles, now to be trained by Mark Tibbs, in wake of his KO loss to Oleksandr Usyk last month.Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. deported this week after his arrest in July by the American DHS and is now in a Mexican jail.And, the WBO orders a cruiserweight interim title fight because Zurdo Ramirez has shoulder surgery and is out rest of year. So, Chris Billam-Smith meets Roman Fress ordered.It's all part of the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe to us on Apple, Spreaker, Spotify, etc.

Well, we have the answer on whether British heavyweight phenom Moses Itauma would wipe out his first "named" opponent and we're ready to recap that fight/the Riyadh DAZN card and more on the newest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast."Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and Newsletter are back.They Recap Saturday's Queensberry/DAZN PPV card in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia where Itauma took two mintues to dispatch Dillian Whyte and grow his legend. The guys have thoughts on Itauma an what should be next. Is it possibly Filip Hrgovic who had a battle on the undercard, including a great 8th round of drama, with David Adeleye before winning by decision? Or will it be someone else?Also, featherweight Nick Ball won a hard fought decison over Sam Goodman and retains his WBA title. Will unification be next for Ball.Also, Junior lightweight Hayato Tsutsumi squahes Qais Ashfaq, junior lightweight Raymond Ford defeats vet Abraham Nova in 10 and lightweight prospect Mohammed Alakel KO's Yumnam Santosh Singh in one round.NewsLots of fights in works at 154 lbs: Sebastian Fundora-Keith Thurman headed for an Oct 25th PBC PPV at MGM Grand? It looks like it. We have more. Plus, Vergil Ortiz–Erickson Lubin headed for the week before, Oct. 18 on DAZN. And, Serheii Bohachuk-Brandon Adams will rematch Sept. 13 on Canelo-Crawford undercaard. Adams handed Bohachuk first loss by 8th-rd TKO 2021. Also, Liam Paro will face David Papot in an IBF welterweight title eliminator for the mandatory position on Sept. 18 in Brisbane, Australia, No Limit Boxing announced the bout.And finally, former WBA welterweight titlist Eimantas Stanionis returns vs. South Africa's Jabulani Makhense at 150 pounds catchweight on Sept. 27th in Stanionis' hometown of Kaunas, Lithuania, Stanionis announced. This will be Stanionis' first ever pro fight in his home country and his first fight since a one-sided sixth-round knockout to Jaron “Boots” Ennis in their April unification fight Finally, some nostalgiaAug. 19, 2017 – 8 years ago on Tuesday – Terence Crawford demolishes Julius Indongo to unify the four titles and become undisputed junior welterweight champion. Big Dan was ringside in Lincoln, Nebraska and reminisces.It's all on the "Figtht Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify! 

Finally we get a big time fight card this weekend in Saudi Arabia and we're ready to go over the return of phenom heavyweight Moses Itauma, have some fight news discussion and more on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast."Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael to go over it all.First, the take a look at Satrurday's Riyadh Season DAZN PPV in Riyadh, Saudi ArabiaItauma has his first "named test" in Dillian Whyte, 10 rounds, heavyweights. Time to see what the youngster can do against a proven vet and will the hype continue after this one? In the co-feature Nick Ball takes on Sam Goodman for Ball's WBA featherweight title. The highly entertaining champ from Liverpool, England will battle the top contender from Australia in this one. Also there's talk of Filip Hrgovic vs. David Adeleye in a heavyweight matchup and American Raymond Ford battles countryman Abraham Nova in a junior lightweight showdown.Then, some newsThe Canelo-Crawford undercard was announced: jjunior middleweight prospects Callum Walsh and Fernando Vargas Jr. will fight the 10-round co-feature and WBC interim super middleweight titleholder Christian Mbilli, a potential 2026 opponent for Alvarez, defends against rising contender Lester Martinez.Also, Paramount+, just off this week's massive seven-year, $7.7 billion deal for all United States broadcast and streaming rights for UFC, is reportedly also the “front-runner” for Zuffa Boxing rights, per Front Office Sports. We discuss the massive money being thrown the UFC's way, while boxing cannot get a fraction of those kind of deals.Next, the domestic violence case against WBA lightweight titleholder Gervonta Davis was dropped on Tuesday, according to the Miami-Dade County Court. The woman declined to prosecute. We discuss and Dan has a theory on Davis' next big battle.Oh, and there's Jason “Boots” Ennis, who recently vacated his unified welterweight title to move up to junior middleweight. But, not for a huge fight, rather, he is set for his debut in perhaps boxing's deepest division in garbage fight vs. unknown Uisma Lima in a WBA title eliminator Oct.11 on DAZN at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Ennis' hometown. What are we doing here (Part 1)?!And, apparently, there is a real chance that Anthony Joshua will fight Jake Paul next, per Eddie Hearn in various interviews. What are we doing here (part 2)?!It's all part of the Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!!

Coming up on Saturay night August 16th, British heavyweight phenom Moses Itauma looks to take his biggest step yet towards being a contender. That's when he meets former multi-time world title challenger Dillian Whyte in a DAZN PPV main event from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.The unbeaten Itauma is not yet 21 years old, but has already created buzz with 10 KOs in his first 12 victories. And, some are wondering if he's a "Mike Tyson 2.0" with all of the big KOs? Well, HEAR him here in a one on one conversation with our insider Dan Rafael for more.It's al part of our coveage from the "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast" as part of this feed and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

It was another light weekend in big time boxing, but we do have a card to discuss. Plus, hear from a prominent boxing play by play broadcaster and the guys also go over the horrible news of not one, but two Japanese fighters off the same early August card dying after their fights. It's all on the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast."Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and newsletter to go over it all.Dan has the recap of the Friday card in Benghazi, LibyaFeatherweight Mirco Cuello big KO2 of Sergio Rios Jimenez and wins (don't laugh) the vacant WBA interim title. Also, light heavyweight Albert Ramirez scored an impressive TKO of Jerome Pampellone, and also wins a vacant WBA interim title. And, a large upset as lightweight Francisco Fonseca decisioned Sofiane Oumiha on this card.Next, hear a portion of our Youtube live show with DAZN's Todd Grisham.  Grisham talks the recent Oscar Duarte and Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez wins in broadcasts he's done, as we play a portion of the show.Then, some NewsHoriibly, two Japanese fighters both suffered fatal brain injuries on the same August 2nd Teiken Promotions card in Tokyo – junior lightweight Shigetoshi Kotari died on Friday after fighting to a draw in the 12-round main event and lightweight Hiromasa Urakawa died on Saturday following an eighth-round KO loss in an eight-rounder. It's awful and Dan explains more about how neither fight seemed to be leading to such a tragic ending. Also, the Japanese Boxing Committee will now look to shorten some regional title fights out of safety concerns.Next, lineal/unified light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol will be sidelined for the rest of the year after undergoing back surgery in his hometown of Saint Petersburg, Russia, on Friday. We have more, including does this maybe mean that Artur Beterbiev and David Benavidez might fight each other, if they both win on the November Riyadh Season Card in Saudi Arabia?Not unexpectedly, WBC/IBF bantamweight champion Junto Nakatani announced he will vacate his titles and move up junior featherweight, putting him in Naoya Inoue's division for a possible all-Japan mega fight in the spring.And, after Sky Sports declined to renew its broadcast deal with Boxxer Promotions, one of the United Kingdom's leading promoters, it has struck a deal with the BBC, which has not shown boxing in 21 years. Dan goes over it all.It's all on the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

A very light weekend of action in the ring, but plenty to go over and British rising heavyweight phenom Moses Itauma is with us,, too, on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast."Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and Newsletter to give their takes and more.First a quick preview of the Friday afternoon card in Benghazi, Libya (?) on DAZNMirco Cuello meets Sergio Rios Jimenez, for the vacant WBA interim featherweight title andAlbert Ramirez takes Jerome Pampellone, WBA light heavyweight eliminator. Dan has more on why these fights are there and what's worth watching? Next it's the Itauma interviewHe takes a big step up vs. former top contender and fellow Brit Dillian Whyte in the main event of a DAZN PPV on Aug. 16 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Is Itauma trending to a title shot soon? Hear him in his own words Big Dan.Then, some fight newsA new date for Chris Eubank Jr.-Conor Benn rematch. Now Nov. 15 after Turki Alashikh previously announced it for Sept. 20th.Former undisputed light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev is moving on, at least for now, from next facing unified champion Dmitry Bivol for the third time and will face Deon Nicholson on Nov. 22 on the big card in Riyadh headlined by WBC light heavyweight champ David Benavidez vs. Anthony Yarde. T.J. wonders for us all "What are We Doing Here?!" with Beterbiev?Meanwhile, Oscar De La Hoya said he is not at all interested in making a rematch between Ryan Garcia and Rolando Romero and would prefer to match Garcia with Teofimo Lopez.A big signing for Most Valuable Promotions – Junior lightweight Jahmal Harvey, a 2024 U.S. Olympian, whom Dan and many others are high on. He talks why.And, former junior lightweight and featherweight titlist Oscar Valdez is going home. He will face Ricky Medina in a 10-rounder on Sept. 6 in his hometown of Nogales, Mexico. The guys discuss this and since he's a Top Rank main event fighter, what's going on with them finding a broadcast outlet?It's all on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Coming up in September, two division undisputed world champ and future hall of famer Terence Crawford will face, by far, his biggest name/challenge to date. That's when he moves up to super middleweight to meet Canelo Alvarez in one of the mega-fights of this decade.But, before the mayhem of that showdown Crawford, the former undisputed world junior welterweight and welterweight champ talked one on one with our insider Dan Rafael. Hear him discuss what motivated him to try this, when clearly he's made monstrous money already and Alvarez is significantly bigger and more powerful than anyone he's ever fought as a pro? Plus, what about his place in history, if he can pull the upset against the Mexican legend? And, what about the massive setting inside Las Vegas' Allegiant Football Stadium, where over 60,000 fans are expected to be part of the showdown?It's all in this conversation with "Bud" Crawford here on our Big Fight Weekend Podcast feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

We are back for the first time in August and ready to review the weekend action and also hear from one of the premiere fighters in the sport on the latest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast."Host T.J. Rives is joined by insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and Newsletter.They begin with the:Recap of Friday night in Caracas, Venezuela that was on ESPN+ and ESPN DeportesJunior flyweight Carlos Canizales kayoes Panya Pradabsri to win the WBC title in a mandatory immediate rematch. Canizales avenged a controversial decision loss in December in Thailand. The rematch was a wild shootout with both fighters down that was nonstop action. We discuss the bout and the future for Canizales. Next is the recap of Saturday night's Golden Boy DAZN card in ChicagoJunior welterweight Oscar Duarte defeats Kenneth Sims Jr. in a hotly contested WBA eliminator. We asses that fight and what's next for Duarte. In the co-feature it was a junior welterweight brawl between to aged/worn fighters in Regis Prograis and Joseph Diaz Jr. Prograis wins by decision but took punishment too. What's next for him. Also, rising heayweight prospect Joshua Edwards scored an easy TKO1 over Cayman Audie. Dan wonders how fast Edwards can rise? Then, it's a one on one Terence Crawford interview with Big DanHe challenges Canelo Alvarez for the undisputed super middleweight title on Sept.13. Hear how his preparation is going and more in this conversation. Finally, some brief newsMatchroom and DAZN announce 4 September/October cards, mainly British oriented plus Eduard "Sugar" Nunez's 130 lb. title defense upcoming.And, Queensberry Promotions is loading up on light heavys – signing top contender Josh Buatsi and European champion Bradley Rea on Friday. We go over the implications.It's all part of the 'Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on this podcast feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

We get ready for the first weekend in August and one prominent fight card in the U.S. in Chicago, plus we have fight news and several prominent boxing deaths to go over on the latest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast."Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael return to go over it all.They start first with Recaps of Wednesday's Teiken Promotions card from Yokohama, JapanFlyweight Ricardo Sandoval upsets Kenshiro Teraji viia split decision  and wins the WBC/WBA titles in a huge upset. How did Sandoval pull it off and what does it mean for his future? In the co-feature bantamweight Antonio Vargas gets a draw with Daigo Higa and retains WBA title in a wild ending. And, junior flyweight Kosuke Takami scores a TKO10 over Erick Rosa and wins the WBA title. Next a preview of Saturday's Golden Boy DAZN card in ChicagoOscar Duarte meets Kenneth Sims Jr., in a junior welterweight showdown that has some intrigue. Meanwhile, the co-feature has former world champs Regis Prograis and Joseph Diaz Jr. in a "last gasp" type junior welterweight matchup. Also young Joshua Edwards is in a heavyweight fight and Dan has more. Some NewsThree obitiuaries to go over: HOF light heavyweight and cruiserweight champion Dwight Muhammad Qawi dying late last week, HOF matmaker/promoter Don Elbaum, a true character of the sport and top trainer Tommy Brooks also passed away. Dan has plenty on all of their careers and contributions.Next, the WBC has stripped Mexico's Francisco Rodriguez Jr. of the WBC interim flyweight title after his positive drug test and ordered a rematch with England's Galal Yafai. The WBC also gave him year of ”probation” but no other real punishment. but the.BBBofC has yet to officially weigh in.And, former IBF junior welterweight titlist Liam Paro announced he is moving up to welterweight and will forego an IBF 140-pound title eliminator ordered against Lindolfo Delgado. Paro is calling out Keith Thurman (at 150 lb) and of course, Manny Pacquiao. How realistiic are either.Hear it all on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

RecapsIt was a lighter weekend with the biggest show being in New York city and our guys are ready to go over the prominent fight card there and more on the newest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast."Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Fraks Unite Substack and newsletter are back aboard to go over the weekend and some news and more.They start with:Saturday's final Top Rank ESPN show in New YorkPuerto Rican junior middleweight Xander Zayas defeats Jorge Garcia of Mexico, and wins the vacant WBO title. What about his convincing performance and what's next for him now that he's won a world title? Featherweight Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington of Brooklyn wins over African Mateus Heita and he wins the vacant WBC interim title junior welterweight. Carrington looks good but Big Dan says hold up on annointing him. And, also on the Top Rank card, prospect Emiliano Vargas destroys Alexander Espinoza with a single punch a minute into their fight. What about his future following his world championship father's career?Also, T.J. sounds off on what he thinks was lame ending to the Top Rank/ESPN relationship.They briefly talk: Saturday's Salita Promotions DAZN card in DetroitClaressa Shields over Lani Daniels by decision- retains women's undisputed heavyweight title. But, these fights have become such mis-matches, can the dynamic continue to get her paid significantly at heavyweight?Next, a Preview Wednesday's Teiken Promotions card from Japan (DAZN in US and UK) Kenshiro Teraji vs. Ricardo Rafael Sandoval, 12 rounds, for Teraji's WBC/WBA flyweight title. Teraji is a fantastic action fighter and the guys go over this matchup and his possible future? Plus, Antonio Vargas vs. Daigo Higa, 12 rounds, for Vargas' WBA bantamweight title. And,  Erick Rosa vs. Kosuke Takami, 12 rounds, for Rosa's WBA junior flyweight title Next, some fight newsThe WBO formally orders Usyk-Parker heavyweight mandatory next. This is an intriguing matchup, but what stands in the way?Also, Jaron "Boots" Ennis and Matchroom Boxing announce a contract extension for the former welterweight champ. What's his next fight, realistically?And, off their very controversial title eliminator, Irishmen Lewis Crocker and Paddy Donovan will meet in an immediate rematch for the vacant IBF welterweight title in the main event of a Matchroom Boxing card on Sept. 13 (DAZN) at the Windsor Park in Belfast, Northern Ireland,. It's Crocker's hometown and this is the first-ever all-Irish world title fight.Hear it all on the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow to follow/subscribe to our feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

We're back for a final time in the month of July, as one of the top prospects turned contenders at junior middleweight goes for a world title and we have lots of fight news, as well, on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael are back to preview all the bouts of importance. They being with:Saturday's Top Rank ESPN card – and for now, the final Top Rank/ESPN event – at the MSG Theater in NYCUnbeaten Xander Zayas battles Mexican veteran Jorge Garcia, for the vacant WBO junior middleweight title. Is it Zayas time to become a world champ or will Garcia pull a second straight large upset? In the co-feature, Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington meets Mateus Heita, for the vacant WBC interim featherweight title. Carrington is from Brooklyn and is rising fast, but will he be challenged here? Also, DAn has more on the prelims with prospect Emiliano Vargas at junior welterweight, plus Rohan Polanco at welterweight and massive heavyweight Bakhodir Jalolov back in action.The guys also spend a few mintues discussing what's potentially next for a broadcast partner for Top Rank, if there is one? This, as their ESPN deal of the past decade is ending. Will they have to go to streaming only?Next, a brief preview of Saturday's Salita Promotions card on DAZN in DetroitOne of the women's top champions, Claressa Shields takes on little known Lani Daniels, for Shields' women's undisputed heavyweight title and also, veteran middleweight Tony Harrison is in the co-feature.Next, some News:Tim Tszyu made a video after getting wrecked and quitting against Sebastian Fundors on Saturday night in Vegas and is saying he will be continuing with his career. What are the realistic chances for him, though?Next, former undisputed junior welterweight champion Josh Taylor has announced retirement on Monday, citing an eye injury. We look back on his recent run of success before his two latest losses.Bad news for unified cruiserweight titlist Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez, who underwent shoulder surgery and will be out 4-6 months, meaning virtually no chance for the Jai Opetaia unification fight this year. And, will it ever happen, as Opetiaia might only fight once more at cruiserweight and look to move up to heavyweight?And, former two-time junior welterweight titlist Regis Prograis, who has lost two in a row to Devin Haney and Jack Catterall (and looked terrible in both fights) returns to face Joseph "JoJo" Diaz Jr. August 2nd on the Oscar Duarte-Kenneth Sims Jr., Golden Boy card on DAZN.It's all part of the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Coming up Saturday night July 26th in New York, junior middleweight contender Xander Zayas of Puerto Rico gets a shot at his first world title. And, we're ready to hear from him on this special "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast."The unbeaten Zayas goes for the vacant WBO 154 lb title against lesser known Jorge Garcia of Mexico Saturday night in the Top Rank Boxing/ESPN main event at the Madison Square Garden Theater in New York. Zayas has headlined before in this setting and the veteran Garcia is in this bout as he upset American Charles Conwell earlier this year.Dan has a one-on-one conversation with Zayas to talk about the biggest moment to date of his career and what it could lead to if his hand is raised Saturday? This is especially a possible unification bout with Sebastian Fundora, the WBC 154 lb. champ.Hear it all on this "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe for all of our content on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

A wild weekend all over the globe of championship fights, most prominently seeing Manny Pacquiao fight to an unfulfilling draw with Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title in Las Vegas. We're ready to recap tha,t plus undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk of Ukraine cements his legacy with a thundering KO of Daniel Dubois Saturday night in London. We've got it all on the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap" podcast!Host TJ Rives guides you through this recap edition with insider Dan Rafael's thoughts from on scene in the immediate aftermath Saturday night of the Pacquiao-Barrios controversial decision. Pac-Man looked great for 46 years of age and four years out of the ring, but he didn't quite do enough to get the decision and take the title. Dan doesn't agree with it. And, you'll hear the back and forth on this pod. Plus what we see Manny, again, including in a possible rematch with Barrios?Plus, Dan recaps the rest of the undercard including Sebastian Fundora's technical knockout win over Tim Tszyu for a second straight victory over the Australian and retain his WBC junior middleweight title.. What's next for Fundora, now?The guys also discuss Usyk's dominance over Dubois with a fifth round KO, which means he's now won six consecutive heavyweight title fights And, he has to be regarded as the best heavyweight fighter of the last decade- bar none. Will Usyk continue to fight on? And, if so, whom is the likely opponent? T.J. and Dan break it down.Then we go into the preview mode with the upcoming vacant WBO 154 lb title fight as Puerto Rican Xander Zayas get set to battle lesser known Jorge Garcia of Mexico Saturday night in the Top Rank Boxing/ESPN main event at the Madison Square Garden Theater in New York.Dan has a one-on-one conversation with Zayas to talk about the biggest moment to date of his career and what it could lead to if his hand is raised Saturday?We wrap the recap pod with TJ going to Ricky Carroll, lead writer of the Big fFght Weekend.com site and talking with him some more about the Usyk fantastic performance and what his future is short-term and his Hall of Fame legacy is compared to other great fighters?It's all part of the great weekend of action on the "Fight fFeaks United Recap" podcast on this feed. And, make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple /spreaker/Spotify etc.!

We are ready for a LOADED weekend of championship action from Las Vegas to London and back to Texas on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview" show/podcast.Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael (in Vegas) were LIVE on Thursday afternoon on our Youtube channel, but you are now hearing the full show on podcast as wellThey talk first about the reason Big Dan is in Las Vegas for the Saturday "PBC on Prime Video" PPV and PPV.COM in Las Vegas. It's the return of the Pac-man as Manny Pacquiao takes on Mario Barrios for his WBC welterweight title. Pacquiao is back at 46 years old and off a four year layoff to attempt to reclaim a world title. What kind of realistic shot does he have.In the co-feature, Sebastian Fundora rematches Tim Tszyu for Fundora's WBC junior middleweight title. There first fight was marred by Tszyu being a bloody mess from the beginning on an accidental elbow. Will Tszyu get his big revenge or will it be another important night for Fundora. The guys discuss and Dan goes over the undercard withIsaac “Pitbull” Cruz vs. Angel Fierro, rematch, 12 rounds, junior welterweightsBrandon Figueroa vs. Joet Gonzalez, 12 rounds, WBA featherweight eliminatorGary Russell Jr. vs. Hugo Castaneda, 10 rounds, lightweightsAlan David Picasso vs. Kyonosuke Kameda, 10 rounds, junior featherweightsMark Magsayo vs. Jorge Mata Cuellar, 10 rounds, junior lightweightsNext, they turn their attention to the DAZN/Queensberry Promotions undisputed heavyweight title rematch between unified champ Oleksandr Usyk and now, IBF champ, Daniel Dubois. Usyk is one of the greats in the sports, won easily in their first fight two years ago and is the clear favorite. But, now the bout is in London and Dubois has scored a couple of impressive wins, including a brutal KO of former champ Anthony Joshua. Will it be different this time? Also, they talk the Saturday Matchroom Boxing card DAZN in Frisco, TexasJesse “Bam” Rodriguez of San Antonio meets South African Phumelele Cafu for the WBC/WBO junior bantamweight titles. Bam is a great talent and is favored, but could Cafu pose a threat?And they wrap with the news of Turki Alashikh announces no more DAZN PPVs beginning with the Nov. 22 Benavidez-Yarde loaded Riyadh card. How long will this last?It's part of the "Big Fight Weekend Preview" show/podcast and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Coming up on Saturday night in Las Vegas, hall of famer Manny Pacquiao returns from a four year layoff to fight WBC welterweight champ Mario Barrios in a "PBC on Prime" PPV main event.But, before the biggest fight of his career the San Antonio native Barrios joins our insider Dan Rafael with his thoughts on battling the former eight division world champ. And, is Barrios the one being disrespected not the 46 year old "Pacman?" It's all part of this special "Fight Freaks Unite Recap" podcast and make sure to find our "Big Fight Weekend Podcast" feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Coming up Saturday night, one of the most exciting American smaller weight fighters in the sport is back. Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez of San Antonio, TX, fights Phumelele Cafu in a WBC/WBO junior bantamweight unification bout in Frisco, Texas, on DAZN.But, before we get to the title fight you get a chance to hear from "Bam" with our insider Dan Rafael in a one on one conversation.They preview this bout with the lesser known South African champ. Plus, Rodriguez talks about whether he wants to win more titles at 115 lb. or move up to bantamweight, etc.? And, make sure to stay engaged with the "Big Fight Weekend Podcast" feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc!

On Saturday night at famed Wembley Stadium in London IBF heavyweight champ Daniel Dubois gets a rematch with unified champ Oleksandr Usyk for the four belt championship. He joins our insider Dan Rafael one on one to go over it all.Their first bout ended with Usyk scoring a TKO, but not before what Dubois' camp and fans believe was a controversial punch ruled a low blow that shouldn't have been. And, the rematch is not in Usyk's "home away from home" of Poland but rather in Dubois' backyard of London.They discuss it here on this special "Fight Freaks Unite" conversation.And, make sure to be with us for all our great content on the  "Big Fight Weekend Podcast" feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc!

It was a busy and wild weekend of fights in New York and we are ready to go over it all on the newest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap" Podcast!Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and newsletter are back to go over it allThey are recapping the aftermath of the Most Valuable Promotions trilogy fight for undisputed women's junior welterweight title holder Katie Taylor of Ireland and Puerto Rico's Amanda Serrano won by Taylor by majority decision for a third victory over Serrano. Taylor retained her titles at famed Madison Square Garden in New York. The guys go over the bout, which didn't live up to their first two thrilling fights.Also, what's Taylor's place in female boxing history, now that she's won yet another massive bout? They also tak the undercard bouts, as well.Next, they recap the Saturday Ring Magazine PPV at Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens, NY, as England's Hamzah Sheeraz wiped out New York's Edgar Berlanga by TKO in the super middleweight main event. And, WBC lightweight champ Shakur Stevenson pulled away from top contender William Zepeda of Mexico in a 12 round decision.There were also wins by Puerto Rico's Subriel Matias, as he outfought Alberto Puello for the WBC junior welterweight title and light heavyweight Cuban David Morrel had his hands full with Russian Imam Khatev on this card, too. The boys have thoughts on it all.Next, Dan has one on one interviews with IBF heavyweight champ Daniel Dubois, as he gets set to rematch unified heavyweight champ Oleksandr Usyk next Saturday July 19th at Wembley Stadium in London. What will be different for him this time after a KO defeat in fight one?  Hear him in his own words.Also, Dan has another one on one conversation with WBC welterweight champ Mario Barrios, as he gets set to fight legend Manny Pacquiao, also on July 19th in Las Vegas. What does Barrios think about battling the eight division world champ, who's coming out of a four year retirement and is 46 years old. It's all part of their discussion. Hear all of this on the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap" Podcast and make sure to follow/subscribe to us on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Coming up on Saturday July 19th in Las Vegas, one of the modern legends of boxing is back, as Manny Pacquiao returns in a headlining title fight on PPV. But, before that fight week takes place hear from the now, hall of famer, on why return and more, as he talks to our insider Dan Rafael on this "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast."Manny is attempting at 46 years old to defeat Mario Barrios for WBC welterweight title at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. He already has the record for the oldest welterweight champion ever, but now looks to add to it by 5 years, if he wins.Dan wonders why Pac-man, after winning so many massive fights and world titles, really wants to comeback. Plus, is this just a "one off" or would Pacquiao fight on, if victorious?Hear him in his own words on our podcast feed and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

It's a jammed packed weekend in NYC for two fight cards on Friday and Saturday night. Plus, hall of famer Manny Pacquiao is with us on the latest "Big Fight Weekend Preview" Podcast.Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael to get the full breakdown and takes.They start with the Preview of Friday's MVP card on Netflix in New YorkKatie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano in a trilogy battle for Taylor's undisputed women's junior welterweight title. They meet at famed MSG for a second time and will Serrano finally get a win in the series or does Taylor make it 3 for 3? The guys discuss the impact of this bout for women's boxing all time and Dan also talks the rest of the women's championship fights, too. Next, they Preview Saturday's Ring mag DAZN PPV card in Queens, New YorkEdgar Berlanga takes on England's Hamzah Sheeraz, 12 rounds for the WBC super middleweight eliminator. Big moment for both in this showdown. In the co-feature, Shakur Stevenson battles top contender William Zepeda for Stevenson's WBC lightweight title. Will Shakur be threatened by Zepeda's punch output and chances or will he dominate a quality contender?Dan also goes over the undercard with Alberto Puello vs. Subriel Matias for Puello's WBC junior welterweight title and David Morrell meeting Imam Khataev in a 10 rounds light heavyweight bout. Then, the PACQUIAO convo:Manny ends 4-year retirement at 46 years old to challenge Mario Barrios for WBC welterweight title on July 19 on Prime Video PPV and PPV.COM at MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Dan wonders why he wants to comeback and is this just a "one off" or will he fight on, if victorious? Some quick News:Hall of fame former junior welterweight and welterweight champion Ricky "Hitman" Hatton is coming of a 13-year retirement to fight Dec. 2nd in Dubai, official 8 rounder at middleweight against Eisa Al Dah. Let's say it together- "What Are We Doing Here?!"Former IBF junior lightweight titlist Anthony Cacace has suffered a back injury, which has forced him to withdraw from a fight scheduled against fellow southpaw and former WBA featherweight titlist Raymond Ford on the Moses Itauma-Dillian Whyte card Aug. 16 in Riyadh. Turki Alashikh is looking for a replacement for Ford to fight.And, Francisco Rodriguez tested positive for a banned substance in the wake of his shockingly dominant upset decision over Galal Yafai to win the WBC interim flyweight title on June 21. Yet another Mexican fighter with a failed post-fight test. There are takes.Hear it all on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview' and follow/subscribe to this podcast feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Coming up Saturday night in New York, super middleweight contender Edgar Berlanga returns and headlines against Hamzah Sheeraz on Turki Alashikh's Ring Magazine PPV card at Louis Armstrong Stadium.But, before he enters the ring, hear from the brash Berlanga with our insider Dan Rafael about: his thoughts on fighting the Brit Sheeraz, his future at 168 lb. and of course, having been in the ring last Fall with future hall of famer Canelo Alvarez.It's all part of our coverage here on the "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast" and this feed. And, make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

It was a light weekend for the July 4th holiday in the USA, but there was a significant fight card in the U.K. and we're ready to recap that and also hear from an exciting, two division world, who's about to return to the ring later this month on the newest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast."Host T.J. Rives is joined by insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and Newletter to discuss:The Recap of Saturday's Matchroom Boxing DAZN at Manchester, EnglandWelterweight Jack Catterall scores a tech decision after 6 rounds over Harlem Eubank. Not much to see here, but will we have to endure it again? Also, lightweight Joe Cordina won easily by decision over Jaret Gonzalez Quiroz in his 135 lb. debut. Could Cordina get in the lightweight title mix soon?Then, hear from Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez with Dan He fights Phumelele Cafu in a WBC/WBO junior bantamweight unification bout set for July 19 in Frisco, Texas, on DAZN. Bam is one of the young championship stars in the U.S. and has big plans. Then, some NewsTurki Alashikh announces “Bam” Rodriguez vs. Fernando Martinez in a three-belt juior bantamweight unification fight for the November Riyadh Season card (Bam obviously has to beat Cafu on July 19th) Also, Turki also announced another fight for that November Riyadh card: Abdullah Mason vs. Sam Noakes for the vacant WBO lightweight title stripped from Keyshawn Davis. And, we have the latest on the Dmitry Bivol-Artur Beterbiev trilogy fight, where Beterbiev is saying that he doesn't know what's going on and where the fight will take place and when? What. Are. We. Doing. Here?!Also legend Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez return is announced for Sept. 12 in Managua, Nicaragua, his hometown. Dan has the details.Hear it all on the 'Fight Freaks Unite Recap" Podcast and make suret to follow/subscribe to this feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!!

It's a lighter weekend of fights with only one prominent show in Manchester, England but we are here to preview that Matchroom card and a prominent super middleweight is with us on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview" Podcast!Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael are back aboard to go over it all.They start with a Preview of the Matchroom Boxing card Saturday on DAZN in Manchester, England that has Jack Catterall against Harlem Eubank in a 12 rounds welterweight battle. It's a significant fight for both of them at 147 in the U.K.Plus, Joe Cordina meets Jaret Gonzalez Quiroz in a 10 round lightweight co-feature. The boys go over bothNext, an Edgar Berlanga interview with Dan, as he headlines against Hamzah Sheeraz on Turki Alashikh's Ring card July 12 at Louis Armstrong Stadium in NY. Berlanga looks help his resume' at 168 lb.Then, some NewsIn the "You can't make this up" category- The U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security has taken Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. into custody for an outstanding Mexican arrest warrent for being part of an alleged crime ring for guns and ammuntion there. It begs the question on why they didn't know/chose to arrest him before or after the fight with Jake Paul last Saturday night at the Honda Center in Anaheim, CA?! What are we doing here?!Next another SHOCKER!!!!!!!!!!  Tyson Fury is unretiring supposedly to fight Oleksandr Usyk for a third time in April 2026 at Wembley Stadium in London. But, why this fight?Also, WBO welterweight champ Brian Norman will fight former undisputed lightweight champ Devin Haney this fall. And, could it be on a card with WBC heavyweight champ David Benavidez in Riyadh vs. Anthony Yarde in November that is also announced by Turki and confirmed by Team Benavidez to Dan. Dan is also reporting on junior lightweight Oscar Valdez who will be back in action in Mexico in September on a Zanfer Promotions card, while Top Rank's broadcast situation is up in the air. Finally, No opponent yet But, PBC announced the free prelims for Pacquio-Barrios PPV, will include Gary Russell Jr. ending a 3+ year layoff layoff, since losing his WBC featherweight title to Mark Magsayo in Jan. 2022. He's been so inactive that does this matter?Hear it all on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview" and Happy 4th of July Weekend! 

Off the final weekend of June there's lots to go over from Anaheim, CA, to Wichita, KS and even, Quebec, Canada and we're ready to do it on the newest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap" show/podcast.This edition aired live on our Big Fight Weekend Youtube page Saturday night with host T.J. Rives in Anaheim for the Jake Paul-Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. PPV giving his insight and insider Dan Rafael providing his analysis on the entire weekend.They begin with the recap of the Saturday night MVP/Golden Boy showthat saw Jake Paul easily decision a badly faded  Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. over 10 rounds. Big Dan is long over this fight, but T.J. has more on what he saw first hand and what's next for Jake? In the co-feature Cruiserweight Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez rallied to beat Yuniel Dorticos and retains his WBO/WBA titles. Zurdo didn't look great, but could be in for a huge payday next.Also, a series of thrilling KO's on the undercard for Welterweight Raul Curiel over Victor Rodriguez in a WBA eliminator and Julian Rodriguez's dramatic KO10 with seconds left in the fight with Avious Griffin. Plus, lightweight rising prospect Floyd Schofield destroyed Tevin Farmer with two quick knockdowns in a 2 min TKO win. The boys have takes on it all.Next, a recap of the Friday night Global Combat Collective main event in Wichitawith former WBC heavyweight champ Deontay Wilder returning for a TKO7 against Tyrrell Herndon. It was expected and now what's next possibly for Wilder? And, a final Recap of the Friday night Eye of the Tiger main event in QuebecSuper middleweight Christian Mbilli destroyed Maciej Suleki in the first round and wins vacant WBC interim title. Now, is he in the picture for that name "Canelo" possibly for 2026??It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap" Show and podcast. Make sure that you are subscribed to this feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

It's a fairly action packed weekend, especially, in Anaheim, CA and we're to go over all the fights and a little bit of news out of the ring on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview" Podcast.Host T.J. is in Southern California this weekend and insider Dan Rafael has his takes, too, as this show originally aired live on our Youtube channel.They begin with the previewsSaturday's MVP/Golden Boy DAZN PPV at Anaheim, Calif.Jake Paul vs. Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., 10 rounds, cruiserweights. is this one worthwhile or Chavez Jr. gonna pull similar issues as his recent past and it's an easy night for Jake?Also, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez vs. Yuniel Dorticos, 12 rounds, for Ramirez's WBO/WBA cruiserweight titles in an intriguing defense.Plus, Floyd Schofield vs. Tevin Farmer, 10 rounds, lightweights in a compelling youth vs. experience battle.Next we work backwards to Friday's Global Combat Collection PPV.COM main event at Wichita, KansasDeontay Wilder vs. Tyrrell Herndon, 10 rounds, heavyweights. Does Wilder have anything left in the tank after 4 losses in the last 5 fights? Also, the guys preview Friday's Eye of the Tiger ESPN+ main event at Quebec CityChristian Mbilli vs. Maciej Sulecki, 12 rounds, for vacant WBC interim super middleweight title Mbilli is poised to go to the next level in middleweight of super middleweight, too. NewsDiscussions are on for fall fight in Riyadh for Brian Norman to defend the WBO welterweight title vs. Devin Haney. Dan explains more on why Haney and when we could we expect to see them neet.Plus, Naoya "The Monster" Inoue-Alan David Picasso is the December fight for Inoue in Riyadh if they win their upcoming fights. We discuss more.Hear it all on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on this feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

Coming up Friday night in Wichita, Kansas, former WBC heavyweight champ Deontay Wilder returns after a year long layoff and back to back losses in a comeback bout. But, before he enters the ring he spoke with our insider Dan Rafael about his return against little regarded Tyrell Herndon on PPV.com etc.They discuss his losses by decision to Joseph Parker and brutal KO defeat to Zhelei Zhang last May that have all but ended his career at the championship level. Or, did they?Can Wilder regain the form (and big punch) that made him one of the stars of the sport in the 2010s with several spectacular KOs? Will Herndon be able to challenge him at all? And, if Wilder does win, is a possible bout with former unified heavyweight champ Anthony Joshua down the road, as well?Hear "The Bronze Bomber" in his own words on this 'Fight Freaks Unite Podcast" with Dan and make sure to follow/subscribe to this feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

It was a lighter weekend of action as Summer is underway in earnest, but our boys are back to go over the upset loss for a British favored flyweight and more on the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and Newsletter are ready to go.They recap Saturday's Matchroom Boxing DAZN main event in Birmingham, EnglandFlyweight Francisco Rodriguez easily pounds Galal Yafai in a 12 round upset and wins WBC interim title by upset in Yafai's hometown. What happened here and what does it mean for the Mexican with the win? Next, a Recap of Saturday's Top Rank  ESPN+ top two bouts in Newark, New JerseyMiddleweight Vito Mielnicki Jr. W10 Kamil Gardzieli, but what does it mean for his future? Meanwhile, Middleweight Jahi Tucker decisions Lorenzo Simpson and could he be fightining Mielnicki next? NewsCanelo- Terence Crawford media tour kicks off in Riyadh on Friday and continued in NY on Sunday. Dan goes over what he liked. And, at the NY presser, Dana White introduced Max Kellerman as the first member of the broadcast team on Netflix. Max has been completely out of the public spotlight for two years since ESPN fired him. We have the latestThe IBF has ordered final heavyweight title eliminator between No. 3 Efe Ajagba and No. 4 Frank Sanchez. Both accepted their positions so if the fight happens winner is IBF mandatory for Oleksandr Usyk-Daniel Dubois 2 winner next month. Sanchez outpointed Ajaba in 2021, but both have a lot on the line in fight 2.NostalgiaJune 22, 2002 – 23 years ago Sunday – Marco Antonio Barrera W12 Erik Morales in the rematch of their epic trilogy for featherweight supremacy. Big Dan was ringside at MGM Grand. andJune 21, 2003- 22 years ago Saturday- heavyweight champ Lennox Lewis ended his hall of fame career by stopping a bloody Vitali Klitschko. And, Dan was also there that night, as well.Find the Big Fight Weekend Youtube Page for the full video reviews!And, we thank you for finding this "Fight Freaks Unite Recap" and make sure to stay with us on this feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

We're ready to go with another weekend of action from England to New Jersey and a former heavyweight champ is on the show, as well. It's all part of the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast."Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael return with their insight and opinions.They begin with the Recap of Thursday's Ohashi Promotions card in TokyoBrian Norman booming one-punch KO of challenger Jin Sasaki, as he retains the WBO welterweight title. Norman is clearly on the rise at 147 lb. and the guys give more on his future. Briefly, on the undercard,Thanongsak Simsri gets a split decision Cristian Araneta, and wins the vacant IBF junior flyweight title.Next, a Preview of the Macthroom Boxing / DAZN main event Saturday in Birmingham, England Galal Yafai takes on Francisco Rodriguez, 12 rounds, for Yafai's WBC interim flyweight title. Yafai is more decorated as an amateur but Rodriguez has had many more fights.  Then, a Preview of the Top Rank ESPN+ top two fights Saturday in Newark, N.J. (ESPN+)Jersey's Vito Mielnicki Jr. meets Poland's. Kamil Gardzielik, 10 rounds, middleweights and in the co-feature, Jahi Tucker vs. Lorenzo Simpson, 10 rounds, middleweights. They go over both.NewsIt's official – Canelo-Crawford will be at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas & TKO's boxing promotion will be called Zuffa Boxing  No shock but Jamie Munguia's B sample was also positive for exogenous testosterone and the guys discuss what it means again. Jaron Ennis announces on social media that he is officially moving up to 154 lb. Dan has more and T.J. invokes "What are we doing here?!"NostalgiaThe boys wrap talking  briefly June 17, 2000 — 25 years ago on Tuesday – Shane Mosley W12 Oscar De La Hoya to win the WBC welterweight title. A huge fight that lived up to the hype. Big Dan was ringside for it all.It' all part of the "Big Fight Weekend Preview" podcast and make suret to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

Thursday night  in Tokyo, WBO welterweight champ Brian Norman will make the second defense of his version of the 147 lb. world title against tough, unbeaten challenger Jin Sasaki in a scheduled 12 rounder.Prior to departing for Japan last week, Norman (27-0, 21 KOs) out of Conyers, GA, joined our insider Dan Rafael to talk more about his willingness to go to the Far East for this defense. Sasaki is a solid puncher at 19-1-1, 17 KOs.The two go one on one and also covered the possibility of Norman meeting IBF/WBA welterweight champ Jaron "Boots" Ennis in a unification battle later this year. Plus, whether Ennis is now the one reluctant to do that or not?It's all part of this special "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe to this feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Off a weekend with one significant show in New York our guys return to go over that, some news and more on the newest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael are back with their insight and takes.They begin with the recap of Saturday night's Matchroom Boxing DAZN card in NYCRichardson Hitchins TKO8 George Kambosos Jr., for Hitchins' IBF 140. It was expected and now, what's next for Hitchins?Also, Andy Cruz TKO5 Hironori Mishiro, IBF 135 lb. eliminator and heavyweight Teremoana Teremoana KO1 Aleem Whitfield, as well. Plus, they recap Saturday night's WBA "KO Drugs" main event in Buenos Aires, ArgentinaNonito Donaire Tech Dec 8 Andres Campos, wins vacant WBA interim bantamweight. It's a win, but there's concern for the aging Donaire. The guys also briefly preview Thursday's Teiken Boxing main event on ESPN+ in TokyoBrian Norman vs. Jin Sasaki, for Norman's WBO welterweight titleNews After everything that happened with the cancellation of Keyshawn Davis-Edwin De Los Santos, De Los Santos' promoter Sampson Lewkowicz announced he has given the fighter a release from his promotional contract, because De Los Santos was so upset the promoter and trainer called off the fight. Our guys weigh in on the "weight debacle" fallout continuing.As expected, the WBO formally ordered England's Sam Noakes and Ohio's Abdullah Mason to meet for the organization's vacant lightweight world title stripped from overweight Davis. They have 20 days to negotiate an agreement or there will be a purse bid. Dan has more.NostalgiaJune 15, 1984 – 41 years ago Sunday – Thomas Hearns MASSIVE KO2 Roberto Duran to retain the WBC junior middleweight title at Caesars Palace. It's an All-time great KO and Hearns' only win of the "Four Kings" series of fights (he was 1-2-1).Make sure to go to the Big Fight Weekend Youtube page to watch the guys discuss it more!And, be part of all our content on this podcast feed on Apple, Spreaker, Spotify, etc.! 

We are back and ready to preview the Matchroom Boxing world title fight in New York, plus hear from a U.S. world champ on his way to Japan for a title defense next week and more on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast."Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael return and have their insight and takes on:The Matchroom Boxing ? DAZN card Saturday at Theater at MSG in NYJunior welterweight Richardson Hitchins vs. George Kambosos, for Hitchins IBF world title. Will this be easy work for Hitchins? Plus, lightweight Andy Cruz vs. Hironori Mishiro in an IBF lightweight eliminator bout. Then, a quick preview of the WBA "KO Drugs Festival" main event Saturday in Buenos Aires, ArgentinaBantamweight Nonito Donaire vs. Andres Campos, for vacant WBA interim title. Donaire is a hall of famer but hasn't fought in nearly two years and is coming off 2 losses, as well.Next, Dan with a Brian Norman conversation, as he makes his second WBO welterweight title defense vs. Jin Sasaki on June 19 (ESPN+) in Tokyo, Japan.News Canelo-Crawford is set for Sept. 13 in Las Vegas officially and will be on Netflix globally. The boys have the latest.WBC/WBA flyweight champion Kenshiro Teraji will headline a world title tripleheader defending against Ricardo Rafael Sandoval on July 30 in Yokohama, Japan. Dan has more.Also, Edwin De Los Santos promoter Sampson Lewkowicz told Dan this week he made a deal with Top Rank and De Los Santos will get half his purse ($165K of a $330K purse) from the canceled Keyshawn Davis fight.. It's interesting, as Top Rank Boxing was not obligated to do so.  And, Golden Boy announces the rescheduled junior welterweight Oscar Duarte vs. Kenneth Sims Jr. bout for Aug. 2 on DAZN in Sims' hometown of Chicago. NostalgiaJune 12, 1989 — 36 years ago on Thursday – Sugar Ray Leonard D12 Thomas Hearns in their long-awaited rematch. The boys briefly talk the bout and WATCH the full nostalgia recap on our Big Fight Weekend Youtube Page.It's all part of the "Big Fight Weekend Prevew Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe to this feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

Coming up Saturday night in New York City, unbeaten 140 lb. champ Richardson Hitchins is back headlining the Matchroom Boxing main event. And, here he talks one on one with our insider Dan Rafael on a special "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast."Hitchins will make his first IBF junior welterweight title defense against former unified lightweight champion George Kambosos Jr. on June 14 on DAZN at the MSG Theater. And, interestingly, the 27 year old New Yorker has little use or respect for what Kambosos has done.Will it be an easy night for the champ and if he wins, what fight does he want next?It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subsribe on this feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

It's a special edition of the recap show/Pod, as we were live on Youtube Sunday night and you are also hearing us on the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap" Podcast!Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast are here to go over everything.They discuss:Saturday's Top Rank ESPN card in Norfolk, Va.Keyshawn missing weight and the falloutAbdullah Mason TKO6 Jeremia Nakathila, 10 rounds, lightweightsNahir Albright W10 majority Kelvin Davis, junior welterweights Saturday's Queensberry DAZN card in Ipswich, EnglandFabio Wardley booming one punch, KO10 Justis Huni, wins vacant WBA interim heavyweight titleSunday's Teiken Boxing ESPN+ card in Tolyo Junto Nakatani TKO6 Ryosuke Nishida, unifies WBC/IBF bantamweight titles and wants Naoya "The Monster" Inoue down the road!Sunday's Tasman Fighters DAZN card Broadbeach, Australia (DAZN)Jai Opetaia KO5 Claudio Squeo, retains lineal/IBF cruiserweight title and wants a huge battle with Zurdo Ramirez. NewsDan has some thoughts on the International Boxing Hall of Fame induction and speeches, including the great Manny Pacquiao.Dana White and Turki Alashikh announce (along with SELA) that they will promote Canelo-Crawford on Sept. 13. as part of new TKO venture.Also, Turki put out thru The Ring Aug. 16 card in Riyadh, which was the date for Garcia-Haney 2 that isn't happening and then Haney-Lopez, which also isn't happening: it will have Moses Itauma-Dillian Whyte as the main event and,  WBA featherweight titlist Nick Ball vs. Sam Goodman; junior lightweight bout between Anthony Cacace and Raymond Ford (17-1, 8 KOs)NostalgiaJune 7, 2014 – 11 years ago on Saturday – Miguel Cotto TKO10 Sergio Martinez to win the lineal/WBC middleweight title at Madison Square Garden, First Puerto Rican to win a title in four divisions, dominated. Big Dan was ringside.It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap" Podcast and make sure for more of this great content, you find us on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

An action packed weekend all over the globe awaits and we're ready to preview it all. Plus, a world champ is talking to us, also, on our newest "Big Fight Weekend Podcast"Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael return with their thoughts and takes on all the action.We start with the previews:Saturday Top Rank/ESPN card in Norfolk, Va.Keyshawn Davis vs. Edwin De Los Santos, for Davis' WBO lightweight title. It's Davis' first defense in his hometown. The boys discuss. And, we have  Abdullah Mason vs. Jeremia Nakathila in a 10 rounds lightweight co-feature. Earlier Saturday Queensberry/DAZN card in Ipswich, EnglandFabio Wardley vs. Justis Huni, for vacant WBA interim heavyweight title. Looking forward to this clash, as both guys can punch. On Sunday Teiken Boxing/ESPN+ card in Tokyo 4:30 a.m. ETJunto Nakatani vs. Ryosuke Nishida, WBC/IBF bantamweight unification. Nakatani has his sights set on "The Monster" but must win here first. Also, Sunday Tasman Fighters/Matchroom card in Broadbeach, Australia 3:30 a.m. ETJai Opetaia vs. Claudio Squeo, for Opetaia's lineal/IBF cruiserweight title. Opetaia is the tops in the division and should cruise. Next a RICHARDSON HITCHINS interview with Dan:Hitchins defends his IBF junior welterweight title vs. George Kambosos Jr. on June 14 at New York's MSG Theater on DAZN. He's very outspoken on this matchup being no big thing. Some News3-division champion Vasiliy Lomachenko announces retirement at 37. We recap his amazing career. Sadly, Jose Santa Cruz, who trained his four sons as professional boxers, including four-division titleholder Leo Santa Cruz, died on Monday after a years-long battle with a form of bone cancer in his spine. He was 65.  Next, Nonito Donaire returns to fight Andres Campos for the vacant WBA interim bantamweight title on June 14 at Casino Buenos Aires in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This fight was only announced in recent days as a late addition to the WBA's annual “KO Drugs” festival event.  And, some quick mention that HOF inductions are Sunday. That bizarrely has legend Manny Pacquiao being inducted and yet, he's set to return to the ring in a July PPV. Dan goes over that and the whole 2025 class.NostalgiaJune 4, 2016 — nine years ago on Wednesday – WBC 130 champion Francisco Vargas and Orlando Salido fought to a hellacious draw in the 2016 fight of the year one night after Muhammad Ali died. Rafael ringside. We briefly talk about this here.Make sure to watch full recap of Vargas-Salido on our BFW Youtube page here: https://www.youtube.com/@bigfightweekend9132And make sure to follow/subscribe on our BFW Podcast feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

Another weekend and another shocker main event, as Caleb Plant was upset in Las Vegas. We discuss that bout, the undercard and also fight cards for Golden Boy Promotions and Matchroom Boxing from Friday on the latest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast."Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Feaks Unite Substack and newsletter are back.The discuss.The PBC on Prime Video card Saturday in Las Vegasas little known Armando Resendiz upset Caleb Plant and wins the WBA interim 168 lb. title. Is this more verifcation that Plant's better days are behind him? And what does it do to the possible fight with super middleweight Jermall Charlo, who scored a TKO6 over Thomas "Cornflake" LaManna.They also talk the middleweight Yoenli Hernandez decisioning Kyrone Davis and also, junior middleweight Isaac Lucero with a quick TKO over Omar Valenzuela. Next a recap of the Golden Boy DAZN main event Friday in Las VegasSuper middleweight Bektemir Melikuziev wins a tremendous decision over Darius Fulghum in a WBA eliminator. More on this bout.Plus, there was a solid Matchroom DAZN card Friday in Guadalajara, MexicoLight heavyweight Khalil Coe TKO6 over Manuel Gallegos in a rematch and avenges his TKO loss. And, junior featherweight Murodjon Akhmadaliev earns a TKO8 against Luis Castillo and up next is Sept. 14 Naoa Inoue challenge for the undisputed 122 lb. belts.Some NewsDevin Haney-Teofimo Lopez back ON for Aug. 16th after Teofimo apologized to Turki Alashikh.The Manny Pacquiao-Mario Barrios full PPV undercard wsa announced Saturday in Vegas and the fighters met briefly with the media.Sadly, Hall of Famer Mike McCallum died in Las Vegas at age 68. One of the greats! He won titles at 154 lb., 160 lb., and 175 lb. We reminisceNostalgiaJune 1, 2019 – 6 years ago Sunday – late replacement opponent Andy Ruiz TKO7 Anthony Joshua in a massive upset to win the unified WBO/IBF/WBA heavyweight title in their first fight. Big Dan ringside at MSG. (Watch more on this huge upset on our Big Fight Weekend Youtube page)Hear it all on the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

A familiar fighter returns to the Las Vegas limelight, plus, some prominent fighters are in the news for the wrong reasons and we explain it all on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast."Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael are back aboard to go over everything.They begin with:A Recap of the Ohashi Promotions card on Wednesday in Yokohama, JapanYoshiki Takei TKO1 Yuttapong Tongdee and retains WBO bantamweight title.Plus, Eduardo Nunez wins easily in 12 rounds over Masanori Rikiishi and wins the vacant IBF junior lightweight title. Dan has a lot on both Next, a Preview of the PBC on Prime Video card Saturday night at Mandalay Bay in Las VegasCaleb Plant returns against little known. Armando Resendiz, 12 rounds, for Plant's WBA interim super middleweight title. More importantly is he's likely fighting Jermall Charlo next. Charlo first takes on. Thomas LaManna in a 10 rounds super middleweight bout. The boys discuss.NewsJaime Munguia tested positive for foreign testosterone in his system in a VADA test related to his May 3rd rematch win over Bruno Surace. What's going to happen now and does Surace get the no-contest ruling?  Dan has more on his reporting on the supposed Aug. 16 Teofimo Lopez-Devin Haney agreed to bout, but fight falling apart over Lopez's tweet storm in which he insulted Turki Alashikh. WHAT ARE WE DOING HERE?!Ryan Garcia undergoes right hand surgery, and the plans for Fall fight in limbo for now.Top Rank July 26th card officially announced, Xander Zayas-Jorge Garcia for vacant WBO junior middleweight title & featherweight Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington vs. Mateus Heita for the vacant WBC interim title in the co-featureYudai Shigeoka, the former WBC strawweight titlist, posted to social media on Thursday to provide an update on older brother and former IBF strawweight titlist Ginjiro Shigeoka, including that he is breathing on his own.NostalgiaWe encourage you to find our Youtube page for some thoughts on HOFer Johnny Tapia, a fan favorite, who died back on May 27, 2012 – 13 years ago on Tuesday.Meanwhile, for all our podcat content keep it locked in on this feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

On this edition of the show, insider Dan Rafael is one on one with former IBF world super middleweight champ Caleb Plant.Plant, who defends the WBA's "interim super middleweight title" against Armando Resendiz in the main event of the PBC on Prime Video card on May 31 in Las Vegas, is looking to set up a fight later in the year against Jermall Charlo. Charlo is returning from a long layoff in the co-feature.They covered a variety of topics including, Caleb being in the ring with Canelo Alvarez in an undisputed 168 lb. title bout in 2022 and whether, he believes there could be a rematch down the line or not?It's all on this special edition of the "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast" on this feed and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!And, also SEE this interview on our Big Fight Weekend Youtube page!

Sunday night we did a LIVE Youtube version of our "Fight Freaks Unite Recap" on our Big Fight Weekend page. Here's the rundown for the podcast audience.Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael give the breakdown on:Queensberry DAZN card Saturday in Glasgow, ScotlandWelterweight Ekow Essuman W12 Josh TaylorHeavyweight Moses Itauma KO2 Mike BalogunKameda Promotions card Saturday in Osaka, JapanFeatherweight Angelo Leo W12 Tomoki Kameda, retains IBF featherweight titleStrawweight Pedro Taduran W12 Ginjiro Shigeoka, rematch, retains the IBF title Friday Zanfer main event in Zacatecas, MexicoJunior bantamweight Willibaldo Garcia W12 split Rene Calixto, rematch, wins vacant IBF title NewsTyson Fury posts video from Como, Italy, over weekend saying he is indeed retired for good and not coming back. The guys don't believe him. Canelo Alvarez says in a media scrum at a golf tournament when that Crawford fight WILL be in Vegas. Provides no more details.  NostalgiaMay 25, 1965 – 60 years ago Sunday – Muhammad Ali KO1 Sonny Liston to retain the heavyweight title in an immediate rematch. Lots of discussion and good video on the Youtube show.Thanks for finding this edition on the Big Fight Weekend podcast feed and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

It's another lighter weekend of action, although there is a prominent world title on the line in the Far East. We go over the matchups and have plenty of news, including Manny Pacquiao confirming his return and more on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast"Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael to go over it all on this edition.They start with the preview of the Queensberry DAZN card Saturday in Glasgow, ScotlandFormer undisputed 140 lb. champ Josh Taylor is back meeting a little known fighter in Ekow Essuman, in a welterweight clash. Does Taylor have anything left?Also, promising heavyweight Moses Itauma is on this card against little known Mike Balogun and it should be a big night for Itauma. The boys also preview the Kameda Promotions / ProBox TV main event Saturday in Osaka, JapanThis sees the return of American Angelo Leo against Tomoki Kameda, for Leo's IBF featherweight title in his first defense. Leo has big things in mind, but is going on the road in this one. Next, here briefly from former IBF 168 lb. champ Caleb Plant with DanPlant defends WBA interim super middleweight title vs. Armando Resendiz in the PBC on Prime Video main event May 31 at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas News Pacquiao is officially back, and announces July 19th Mario Barrios fight on social media. His training has opened with Freddie Roach at Wild Card boxing club in L.A.Also, Dan is reporting that besides the bouts he's already reported that will be on the PPV (Fundora-Tszyu 2 and Pitbull-Fierro 2), the PPV will also include former 122 lb. and 126 lb. titlist  Brandon Figueroa vs. former title challenger Joey Gonzalez.Former IBF junior welterweight titlist Liam Paro will face Jonathan Navarro in a 10-rounder contracted at 144 pounds in the main event of a No Limit Boxing card on June 25 in Cairns, Australia. Paro's first fight since losing the IBF 140 title to Richardson Hitchins in December.And, we talk more about the death of all-time great Nino Benvenuti at 87 earlier this week.. The Italian legend was 1960 Olympic gold medalist, undisputed junior middleweight champion, two-time undisputed middleweight champion and was 2-1 in one boxing's most famed trilogies against Emile Griffith all for the undisputed 160 title. Some knowledge for the younger fans!Nostalgia May 22, 2010 – 15 years go on Thursday – the unfortunate fourth fight between featherweights Rafael Marquez and Israel Vazquez, who predictably got destroyed via KO3 in his final fight. and....May 22, 1993 – 32 years ago on Thursday – Roy Jones easy wiped out Bernard Hopkins in 12 rounds to win the vacant IBF middleweight title for his first world title in the co-feature of Riddick Bowe's easy KO2 in a mismatch with Jesse Ferguson to retain the heavyweight title. Goto our Big Fight Weekend Youtube paget to watch these here: https://www.youtube.com/@bigfightweekend9132/featuredAnd make sure to follow this podcast feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

It was a lighter weeeknd of non-title action but we still have a couple of main eventst to go over and some interesting fight news are also part of the newest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and Newsletter are back with their takes.They recap the Matchroom Boxing/DAZN main event in LondonHeavyweight Dave Allen demolishes Johnny Fisher in the fifth in their rematch. It's a devastating loss for Fisher to try to stay relevant and move up. Next they recap the 360 Promotions/UFC Fight Pass main event in Commerce, Calif.Junior middleweight Serhii Bohachuk easily decisioned Mykel Fox over 10 rounds in a workman effort to stay in shape for a future 154 lb. title shot. Some NewsMatchroom announces Jack Catterall is moving up to welterweight and will face British countryman Harlem Eubank on July 5 (DAZN) at AO Arena in Manchster, a home fight for Catterall. And, they  announce that the Hitchins-Kambosos lightweight title undercard for June 14th with most notably lightweight Andy Cruz vs. Hironori Mishiro in an IBF title eliminator in the co-feature.Next, Turki Alashikh announces on social media in Sunday: “We have confirmed the promoter for Canelo v Crawford will be Sela for Riyadh Season. The broadcaster we have not decided yet but the date will be Saturday 13th September. More details soon.” The guys discuss whether the bout will also remain in Vegas?During the media scrum at the Jake Paul-Chavez Jr. presser a few days ago, Jake said there is work going on "behind the scenes" for he and Tank Davis to still do an exhibition in November. T.J. in specfic again points out the sillinessPlus Golden Boy fights: Talks for Floyd Schofield-Lucas Bahdi lightweight fight on Jake Paul-Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. PPV fall apart over money so now, per Dan's sources and Golden Boy looking to do Schofield-Tevin Farmer on the June 28th show. Also they're looking to reschedule Kenneth Sims Jr.-Oscar Duarte  junior welterweight contender fight for August 2nd in Chicago, Sims' hometown.NostalgiaFor full insight and analysis go to the VIDEO on the Big Fight Weekend Youtube Page!May 19, 1990- 35 years ago Monday -- Hall of famers Pernell Whitaker and Azumah Nelson met for the unified lightweight title in Las Vegas.May 18, 2002 – 23 years ago Sunday – iconic Gatti-Ward I. We can't get enoughHappy Birthday Sugar Ray Leonard, as the legend turned 69 this weekend!Enjoy our "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe to this feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Although it's a lighter weekend of action, there are a couple of solid contender main events and we've aslo got some interesting fight news and more on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael to go over it all.They begin with the preview of the Matchroom/DAZN main event Saturday in LondonJohnny Fisher vs. Dave Allen, rematch in a 10 round heavyweight battle. Will Fisher step up this time and decisively win over the veteran Allen? Also, they preview the 360 Promotions/UFC Fight Pass main event in Commerce, Calif.Contender Serhii Bohachuk meets. Mykel Fox, who's stepping up to junior middleweight in the main event. Bohachuk wants to get in the 154 lb. title picture with a big win. Can the crafty, southpaw Fox create problems? News Wait, the Canelo Alvarez-Terence Crawford mega-fight, announced for September 12th for  Las Vegas isn't going to be on that date and maybe, not in Vegas?? Dan isn't so sure. The guys go over it. Also, the presser on Thursday in NYC for Turki Alashikh's July 12 Ring mag / DAZN PPV that will take place at Louis Armstrong Stadium tennis stadium in Queens, NY. Plenty of talk between Shakur Stevenson and top contender William Zepeda along with Edgar Berlanga and Hamzah Sheeraz at the presser.  And, Turki tells Dan he is unsure, if he will proceed with Garcia-Haney 2 right away and may look to get Garcia another fight first. Next, the California commission says Charli Suarez has appealed the technical decision loss to Emanuel Navarrete last Saturday night and the hearing is on agenda for June 2 commission meeting. Meanwhile, Bob Arum tells me he would like to do the immediate rematch in October in Manila to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Thrilla in Manila, Ali-Fraizer 3, which he also promoted  Top Rank/Golden Boy/Zanfer made deal, avoid purse bid for vacant WBO junior middleweight title bout between Xander Zayas and Jorge Garcia. Dan's reporting is it is likely going to be July 26 at TBA. And, this would be on final Top Rank/ESPN card as their contract expires July 31. Hall of Famer Holly Holm has signed with MVP and is coming back to boxing for first time since 2013 (she went UFC and became a champion) to fight Yolanda Vega, who also signed with MVP, on Jake Paul-Chavez PPV on June 28.  NostalgiaMay 14, 2005 — 20 years ago on Wednesday – Winky Wright W12 Felix Trinidad domination. Big Dan was ringside andMay 15, 2044 -- 21 years ago Thursday – in the light heavyweight title rematch Antonio "Magic Man" Tarver KO2 Roy Jones in gargantuan shocker. WATCH these famous fight recaps on our BFW Youtube page here: https://www.youtube.com/@bigfightweekend9132And, make sure to be following/subscribed to our pod content on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Some controversy in San Diego, another big showing for Anthony Cacace in the U.K. and a tremendous under the radar Japanese title fight Sunday were all part of the weekend for us to go over on the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast."Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack to talk it all.They Recap the Top Rank / ESPN show Saturday in San DiegoEmanuel Navarrete wins a Tech Decision over Charly Suarez and retains the WBO junior lightweight title. But, was it a punch or a butt that caused the Navarrete cut that stopped the fight. And, will this verdict be overturned by the California commission now? The boys go in detail about it and their opinions on what should be done?In the co-feature, Raymond Muratalla decisioned Zaur Abdullaev and wins vacant IBF interim lightweight title. What's next... Loma?? Then, a recap from the Queensberry DAZN main event Saturday in Nottingham, EnglandAnthony Cacace again gets an impressive with a TKO9 over hometown fave Leigh Wood. Third staight significant win for Cacace and was it the end for the popular Wood?A brief recap of the ProBox main event Saturday in Kissimmee, Fla. as Erickson Lubin TKO11 against Ardreal Holmes in an IBF junior middleweight eliminator. Not a thrilling fight, but Lubin helps himself with the win. Finally, the boys recap the main event in Tokyo on Sunday morning USA time, as Fernando  "Puma" Martinez wins another action packed decision with Kazuto Ioka in their rematch. And, Martinez, who got off the canvas late, retains WBA junior bantamweight title. Then, some NewsDan is reporting on plans in works for Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez to return this Summer ahead of a probable junior bantamweight title shot. Chocolatito is No. 1 in the WBO, WBC and WBA rankings.And, if the Pacquiao-Barrios happens for July 19. It will have not only the Fundora-Tszyu 2 junior middleweight rematch, but also a possible for undercard so is Pitbull Cruz vs. Angel Fierro 2, as well.Nostalgia (Go to our BFW Youtube page for:May 12, 2001 – 24 years ago on Monday – Felix Trinidad TKO5 William Joppy to win the WBA middleweight title in the Don King's and HBO's middleweight tournament semis. Dan was ringside for top 2-3 atmospheres he's ever been in. MSG was on fire inside and outside that night. Incredible memories!Go WATCH here:  https://www.youtube.com/@bigfightweekend9132/featuredAnd make sure to follow/subscribe to this podcast feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify! 

We get ready for a wekkend with action all over the globe- from San Diego, CA to Nottingham, England and then, back over to Tokyo, Japan and we're ready to go over it all on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael for their takes and insight.They begin with the preview of the Top Rank ESPN card Saturday in San DiegoMexican star Emanuel Navarrete returns against unbeaten but largely unknown Charly Suarez for Navarrete's WBO junior lightweight title and in the co-feature unbeaten Raymond Muratalla takes on Zaur Abdullaev for the vacant IBF interim lightweight title. The boys discuss both.Earlier Saturday, U.S. time, the Queensberry DAZN main event from Nottingham, England sees Anthony Cacace battle Leigh Wood in a junior lightweight showdown of popular prominent fighters in the U.K. There's a brief preview of the ProBox TV card Saturday in Kissimmee, Fla.  as Erickson Lubin returns with Ardreal Holmes in an IBF junior middleweight eliminator  And, much more interesting a preview of the Sunday fight in Tokyo (Sunday a.m. in U.S.) with Fernando "Puma" Martinez rematching Kazuto Ioka, for Martinez's WBA junior bantamweight title. Get all the takes and opinions on these matchups. Then, some NewsDan has more on the likely July 19th return of now 46 year old Manny Pacquiao to meet WBC welterweight titlist Mario Barrios. #WhatAreWeDoingHereDan is further reporting that Canelo-Crawford likely will be on Netflix - not PPV for Friday night Sept. 12th and explains more about it.And, they talk briefly on the announcement that Claressa Shields will defend the women's undisputed heavyweight title vs. IBF light heavy titlist Lani Daniels on July 26 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit on DAZNNostalgiaMay 8, 2004 – 21 years ago on Thursday – Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez battle to a draw in the first fight of their epic four-fight series. Was for Marquez's IBF and Manny's lineal featherweight titles and Dan was there in Las Vegas.It's all part of the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!Also, if you did not WATCH it. Go see our great recap of Diego Corrales-Jose Luis Castillo I from 20 years ago in Vegas on our Youtube page on this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7k-7TbU0Jo

It was a CRAZY weekend of fights that thankfully saved the best for last as "The Monster" Naoya Inoue had to get off the canvas himself to rally and score a Sunday night KO. We are ready to go over his win and the upset of Ryan Garcia and a lackluster Canelo performance in Saudi Arabia on the latest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap podcast!Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael to go over it all.They start with Inoue's dramatics in Las Vegas defeating little known Ramon Cardenas to retain the four undisputed 122 lb. belts. WOW. What a fight and it saved a lackluster weekend. Dan and T.J. have thoughts on that and the Rafael Espinoza title win at featherweight in the co-feature.Then, they back up to recap Friday's Ring / Times Square DAZN PPVRolando Romero upsets Ryan Garcia by decision and wins his biggest fight to date. What happened to Garcia?And while Devin Haney won in 12 over Jose Ramirez, he looked shaky too. Now, he's still supposed to fight Garcia in a arematch next??Meantime, Teofimo Lopez looked solid and beat Arnold Barboza, to keep his lineal/WBO 140 lb titleThen to Saturday's Riyadh Season DAZN PPV in Saudi Arabia, as Canelo Alvarez beat William Scull and again, becomes undisputed at 168 lb. But, this was far from a great performance with Scull running all fight long. Concerns from Dan on Canelo?The guys discuss Canelo-Crawford announced for Sept.12 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. And go over the undercard with Badou Jack and Jaime Munguia winning. However a disgusting draw for heavyweight Efe Ajagba in a fight he clearly won with Martin Bakole.We have News:Anthony Joshua in Saudi Arabia says he will have elbow surgery and will be sidelined 6-8 weeks. Fury fight now significantly delayed.  And, as expected, the WBO stripped Sebastian Fundora of its junior middleweight world title on Thursday for failing to comply with its order of a mandatory defense against Xander Zayas. What's next for Zayas?Nostalgia May 5, 2007 – 18 years ago on Monday – Mayweather W12 Oscar biggest money fight in history to that point. Rafael ringside. We have taped it.  May 7, 2005 – 20 years ago Wednesday – greatest fight ever Corrales TKO10 Castillo to unify lightweight titles. Rafael ringside. Hear it all as part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

A HUGE weekend of action to go over from NYC to Saudi Arabia and back to Las Vegas with massive names headlining and we'll go over it all on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael are ready to mix it up and analze the rare three fight nights in a row to start the month of MayThe begin with the preview of Friday Turki Alashikh/DAZN PPV in New York's Times SquareRyan Garcia vs. Rolando Romero, for vacant WBA “regular” welterweight titleDevin Haney vs. Jose Ramirez, welterweightsTeofimo Lopez vs. Arnold Barboza, for Lopez's lineal/WBO junior welterweight title Next, in order, a preview of the Saturday Riyadh Season / DAZN PPV in Riyadh, Saudi ArabiaCanelo Alvarez vs. William Scull, 12 rounds, WBC/WBO/WBA/IBF super middleweight unificationBadou Jack vs. Noel Mikaelian, 12 rounds, for Jack's WBC cruiserweight titleBruno Surace vs. Jaime Munguia, rematch, 12 rounds, super middleweightsEfe Ajagba vs. Martin Bakole, 10 rounds, heavyweights And finally, another preview for the Sunday Top Rank/ ESPN card in Las VegasNaoya Inoue vs. Ramon Cardenas, 12 rounds, for Inoue's undisputed junior featherweight titleRafael Espinoza vs. Edward Vazquez, 12 rounds, for Espinoza's WBO featherweight title Then, some News:Change of PBC summer plans: Out Tim Tszyu-Keith Thurman and Sebastian Funora-Xander Zayas, In Fundora-Tszyu rematch, as Fundora will vacate WBO title and Zayas will fight for the vacant title. Dan goes over why?Former WBC heavyweight champ Tyson Fury posts social media video with SugarHill Steward that basically says he is ending his his retirement. We all knew that he was trying to fight Anthony Joshua this Summer all along.Meanwhile, heavyweight Jarrell Miller is out of a Fabio Wardley fight with supposed shoulder injury, Queensberry finalizing paperwork with replacement Justis Huni of Australia per Dan's reporting.And, Matchroom and DAZN make four events official: --May 28 in Yokohama, Japan, Eduardo Nunez vs. Masanori Rikiihsi, for vacant IBF junior lightweight title--May 30: Guadalajara, Mexico, Manuel Gallegos vs. Khalil Coe, rematch, light heavyweights--June 14: New York, Richardson Hitchins vs. George Kambosos, for Hitchins' IBF jr welterweight--July 19: Frisco, Texas, Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez vs. Phumelele Cafu, WBC/WBO junior bantamweight unification and Diego Pacheco vs. Trevor McCumby, super middleweights Hear it all on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to get all of our pod content on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify and find our video content on Youtube/Big Fight Weekend!