Podcast appearances and mentions of Dan Rafael

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Best podcasts about Dan Rafael

Latest podcast episodes about Dan Rafael

Big Fight Weekend
Oscar Collazo Wins Golden Boy Main Event + Floyd Mayweather, Moses Itauma News, Etc.! | Fight Freaks Unite Recap

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2026 59:16 Transcription Available


We are back off a lighter weekend in the ring to talk about the chaotic opponent situation for Oscar Collazo's planned strawweight title fight in California and plenty of fight news, too, on the latest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives returns iwth insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and newletter have their insight and takes.First, they recap Saturday's Golden Boy DAZN main event in Oceanside, CaliforniaCollazo TKO2 over late replacement, Neider Valdez in what turned out to be flyweight non-title fight. We have more on the whole mess with an opponent and what's next for him? Dan also has more briefly on the undercard fights, too.Next, a recap Saturday's Queensberry DAZN main event in Southampton, EnglandJunior lightweight Ryan Garner W12 Michael Magnesi, wins vacant WBC interim title in a very competitive bout. Dan gives his thoughts. Then, some newsThe nastiness of Oscar De La Hoya/Golden Boy's feud with unbeaten contender Vergil Oritz over his contract status may be worked out before the scheduled arbitration for mid July. We have more on the situation and can Ortiz finally get back in the ring?Next, Floyd Mayweather faces two felonies for writing a bad check for $200,000 for a watch in Las Vegas as well as lawsuit from CSI, which has his rights for the Tyson exhibition and Pacquiao rematch, because he took a $4.5 million advance and they say he has breached the contract; they have filed indistrict court in NY to stop his exhibition vs. Mike Zambidis in Athens, Greece, scheduled for this coming Saturday.It's a Done deal, presser on Monday -- heavyweight Moses Itauma and Filip Hrgovic will meet August 29 (DAZN PPV or DAZN Ultimate) at The O2 in London. Hrgovic signed the deal on Friday.Also, PBC announces Spence-Tszyu Prime Video PPV undercard (July 25 in U.S. prime time, Sunday July 26 in Sydney, Australia). It's US vs Australia -- Jermall Charlo, for his first fight in 14 months and third fight since 2021, will face Koen Mazoudier in a 10-round super middleweight fight. Stephen Fulton vs. Liam Wilson in a 12-round junior lightweight fight. 2024 Australian Olympian and middleweight prospect Callum Peters vs. TBA in a 10-rounder The WBA CLAIMS in a statement that it will reduce titles as it had once done AND announced the elimination of the bridgerweight division.Talks going on for a three-belt cruiserweight unification bout between WBA/WBO champ David Benavidez and WBC titleholder Noel Mikaelian. How realistic is this for later in the year?And, the Egyptian Professional Boxing Association denied Rico Verhoeven's appeal of his controversial 11th-round stoppage by lineal/unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk on May 23 at the Pyramids in Giza, Egypt.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.! 

Big Fight Weekend
Oscar Collazo Wins Golden Boy Main Event + Floyd Mayweather, Moses Itauma News, Etc.! | Fight Freaks Unite Recap

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2026 59:16 Transcription Available


We are back off a lighter weekend in the ring to talk about the chaotic opponent situation for Oscar Collazo's planned strawweight title fight in California and plenty of fight news, too, on the latest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives returns iwth insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and newletter have their insight and takes.First, they recap Saturday's Golden Boy DAZN main event in Oceanside, CaliforniaCollazo TKO2 over late replacement, Neider Valdez in what turned out to be flyweight non-title fight. We have more on the whole mess with an opponent and what's next for him? Dan also has more briefly on the undercard fights, too.Next, a recap Saturday's Queensberry DAZN main event in Southampton, EnglandJunior lightweight Ryan Garner W12 Michael Magnesi, wins vacant WBC interim title in a very competitive bout. Dan gives his thoughts. Then, some newsThe nastiness of Oscar De La Hoya/Golden Boy's feud with unbeaten contender Vergil Oritz over his contract status may be worked out before the scheduled arbitration for mid July. We have more on the situation and can Ortiz finally get back in the ring?Next, Floyd Mayweather faces two felonies for writing a bad check for $200,000 for a watch in Las Vegas as well as lawsuit from CSI, which has his rights for the Tyson exhibition and Pacquiao rematch, because he took a $4.5 million advance and they say he has breached the contract; they have filed indistrict court in NY to stop his exhibition vs. Mike Zambidis in Athens, Greece, scheduled for this coming Saturday.It's a Done deal, presser on Monday -- heavyweight Moses Itauma and Filip Hrgovic will meet August 29 (DAZN PPV or DAZN Ultimate) at The O2 in London. Hrgovic signed the deal on Friday.Also, PBC announces Spence-Tszyu Prime Video PPV undercard (July 25 in U.S. prime time, Sunday July 26 in Sydney, Australia). It's US vs Australia -- Jermall Charlo, for his first fight in 14 months and third fight since 2021, will face Koen Mazoudier in a 10-round super middleweight fight. Stephen Fulton vs. Liam Wilson in a 12-round junior lightweight fight. 2024 Australian Olympian and middleweight prospect Callum Peters vs. TBA in a 10-rounder The WBA CLAIMS in a statement that it will reduce titles as it had once done AND announced the elimination of the bridgerweight division.Talks going on for a three-belt cruiserweight unification bout between WBA/WBO champ David Benavidez and WBC titleholder Noel Mikaelian. How realistic is this for later in the year?And, the Egyptian Professional Boxing Association denied Rico Verhoeven's appeal of his controversial 11th-round stoppage by lineal/unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk on May 23 at the Pyramids in Giza, Egypt.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.! 

iFL TV Boxing Podcast
'I'M NOT A F____ IDIOT, IT'S ABOUT THE MONEY' - DAN RAFAEL ON TYSON FURY WITH ZUFFA_ DANA & HEARN

iFL TV Boxing Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2026 35:09


'I'M NOT A F____ IDIOT, IT'S ABOUT THE MONEY' - DAN RAFAEL ON TYSON FURY WITH ZUFFA_ DANA & HEARN

Big Fight Weekend
Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez Gets Bantamweight Title + Fight News And More! | Fight Freaks Unite Recap

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2026 64:29 Transcription Available


We are back with a recap of the big win by Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez to caputre a world title, we have plenty of fight news and we have a titlle for the NY Knicks in Pro Basketball and the host is headed on a vacation! We cover it 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 give their insight and takes on it all.Dan MUST talk first about his Knicks finally, finally, after 53 years winning the NBA title Saturday night in San Antonio. Has he gotten memorabilla already? Will he be at the parade on Thursday through Manhattan? It's all discussed.T.J. cares only slightly, as he lives in Florida and is headed on a CRUISE with his family after this show!So we are ready to get to it!First, a recap of the Sataurday night Matchroom Boxing main event at Glendale, ArizonaJesse “Bam” Rodriguez KO6 Antonio Vargas and wins WBA bantamweight title. Bam is rolling and is one of the best in the sport. Now, will he get the mega-fight with Naoya Inoue next or not? The guys go over everything. Then, some newsAnnouncement during the Saturday Matchroom card that super middleweight Diego Pacheco will headline against Immanuwel Aleem on July 26 at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California. Andy Cruz vs. Albert Bell IBF lightweight eliminator in the co-feature.  No is done yet, but PBC is working to make WBA junior welterweight titlist Gary Antuanne Russell to make his second defense against Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz (the WBC interim titlist) in late August or September.  Heavyweight Moses Itauma's summer date has been moved to Aug. 29 in London but the hunt is still on for an opponent as Filip Hrgovic has turned down the fight for August. T.J. wonders on all levels WHAT ARE WE DOING HERE with Itauma, who needs rounds and credibility not fighting more regularly.Next, talks are going on for a mandatory fight between WBA lightweight titlist Gervonta "Tank" Davis and Floyd Schofield. How realistic is this for either of them.Opponents set for Edgar Berlanga and Richardson Hitchins on Zuffa Boxing's NYC debut card July 26 at Madison Square Garden Theater. Berlanga will take on two-time middleweight title challenger Steven Butler and Hitchins, moving up to welterweight, will face Ricardo Salas. Dan has more on the matchups.It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Big Fight Weekend
Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez Gets Bantamweight Title + Fight News And More! | Fight Freaks Unite Recap

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2026 64:29 Transcription Available


We are back with a recap of the big win by Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez to caputre a world title, we have plenty of fight news and we have a titlle for the NY Knicks in Pro Basketball and the host is headed on a vacation! We cover it 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 give their insight and takes on it all.Dan MUST talk first about his Knicks finally, finally, after 53 years winning the NBA title Saturday night in San Antonio. Has he gotten memorabilla already? Will he be at the parade on Thursday through Manhattan? It's all discussed.T.J. cares only slightly, as he lives in Florida and is headed on a CRUISE with his family after this show!So we are ready to get to it!First, a recap of the Sataurday night Matchroom Boxing main event at Glendale, ArizonaJesse “Bam” Rodriguez KO6 Antonio Vargas and wins WBA bantamweight title. Bam is rolling and is one of the best in the sport. Now, will he get the mega-fight with Naoya Inoue next or not? The guys go over everything. Then, some newsAnnouncement during the Saturday Matchroom card that super middleweight Diego Pacheco will headline against Immanuwel Aleem on July 26 at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California. Andy Cruz vs. Albert Bell IBF lightweight eliminator in the co-feature.  No is done yet, but PBC is working to make WBA junior welterweight titlist Gary Antuanne Russell to make his second defense against Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz (the WBC interim titlist) in late August or September.  Heavyweight Moses Itauma's summer date has been moved to Aug. 29 in London but the hunt is still on for an opponent as Filip Hrgovic has turned down the fight for August. T.J. wonders on all levels WHAT ARE WE DOING HERE with Itauma, who needs rounds and credibility not fighting more regularly.Next, talks are going on for a mandatory fight between WBA lightweight titlist Gervonta "Tank" Davis and Floyd Schofield. How realistic is this for either of them.Opponents set for Edgar Berlanga and Richardson Hitchins on Zuffa Boxing's NYC debut card July 26 at Madison Square Garden Theater. Berlanga will take on two-time middleweight title challenger Steven Butler and Hitchins, moving up to welterweight, will face Ricardo Salas. Dan has more on the matchups.It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Big Fight Weekend
Bam Rodriguez Goes For Bantamweight Title With Antonio Vargas + Fight News! | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2026 56:34 Transcription Available


One of the top pound for pound fighters in the sport is back and we're ready to discuss his title challenge and go over a bunch of fight news, as well on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and newsletter are back with all of their insight and takes.First, a preview of the Saturday night's Matchroom DAZN main event at Glendale, Ariz.Antonio Vargas vs. Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez, 12 rounds, for Vargas' WBA bantamweight title. Bam is looking for another world title in a 3rd division with sights set on Naoya "the Monster" Inoue. But, can he get back the talented champ Vargas, who is admittedly never been in with a fighter like Bam? The boys debate it all. Then, some newsInternational Boxing Hall of Fame inductions are on Sunday in Verona, NY, 12 person class in five categories led by modern men: Gennadiy Golovkin, Nigel Benn and Antonio Tarver. Dan has much more on the HOF and the weekend and those being honored. Next, Golden Boy Promottions and Oscar De La Hoya sent Zuffa Boxing and parent company TKO a "cease and desist letter" related to the making of the proposed Ryan Garcia-Conor Benn massive bout, because they have not been included in the talks for the Sept. 12 fight, And, they claim Garcia is contractually bound to DAZN and cant fight on Paramount+ or Netflix, where they may do the fight. Not a surprising mess, once again, for Zuffa.And, then, MVP Promotions announces that WBC/WBA women's junior middleweight titleholder Mikaela Mayer and WBO titlist Chantelle Cameron, two of the best and most well-known female boxers, will meet to unify their titles on Aug. 29 (ESPN+ in U.S., Sky Sports in U.K.) at bp pulse LIVE in Birmingham, England. A tremendous matchup on paper.Then, British promoter Boxxer has secured a deal with DAZN beginning August 8 at First Direct Bank Arena in Leeds, England with British and Commonwealth super middleweight champion Troy Williamson defending in a rematch with Callum Simpson.  Almost comically, iVB Boxing has canceled a July 11 event at Civic Center Plaza in San Francisco, where they bragged they would challenge the all-time attendance record 135,132 for Tony Zale-Billy Pryor, a free card in Milwaukee in 1941. NO SHOCK!!!! Dan has more.And, Floyd Mayweather, at 49, who is mired in deep financial problems, will go through with a boxing exhibition he announced in early March against retired Greek kickboxer Mike Zambidis on June 27 at Telekom Center in Athens, Greece. The six-round exhibition will headline the “Battle of Legends” event on DAZN PPV, it was announced on Wednesday.Hear it all on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

Big Fight Weekend
Bam Rodriguez Goes For Bantamweight Title With Antonio Vargas + Fight News! | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2026 56:34 Transcription Available


One of the top pound for pound fighters in the sport is back and we're ready to discuss his title challenge and go over a bunch of fight news, as well on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and newsletter are back with all of their insight and takes.First, a preview of the Saturday night's Matchroom DAZN main event at Glendale, Ariz.Antonio Vargas vs. Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez, 12 rounds, for Vargas' WBA bantamweight title. Bam is looking for another world title in a 3rd division with sights set on Naoya "the Monster" Inoue. But, can he get back the talented champ Vargas, who is admittedly never been in with a fighter like Bam? The boys debate it all. Then, some newsInternational Boxing Hall of Fame inductions are on Sunday in Verona, NY, 12 person class in five categories led by modern men: Gennadiy Golovkin, Nigel Benn and Antonio Tarver. Dan has much more on the HOF and the weekend and those being honored. Next, Golden Boy Promottions and Oscar De La Hoya sent Zuffa Boxing and parent company TKO a "cease and desist letter" related to the making of the proposed Ryan Garcia-Conor Benn massive bout, because they have not been included in the talks for the Sept. 12 fight, And, they claim Garcia is contractually bound to DAZN and cant fight on Paramount+ or Netflix, where they may do the fight. Not a surprising mess, once again, for Zuffa.And, then, MVP Promotions announces that WBC/WBA women's junior middleweight titleholder Mikaela Mayer and WBO titlist Chantelle Cameron, two of the best and most well-known female boxers, will meet to unify their titles on Aug. 29 (ESPN+ in U.S., Sky Sports in U.K.) at bp pulse LIVE in Birmingham, England. A tremendous matchup on paper.Then, British promoter Boxxer has secured a deal with DAZN beginning August 8 at First Direct Bank Arena in Leeds, England with British and Commonwealth super middleweight champion Troy Williamson defending in a rematch with Callum Simpson.  Almost comically, iVB Boxing has canceled a July 11 event at Civic Center Plaza in San Francisco, where they bragged they would challenge the all-time attendance record 135,132 for Tony Zale-Billy Pryor, a free card in Milwaukee in 1941. NO SHOCK!!!! Dan has more.And, Floyd Mayweather, at 49, who is mired in deep financial problems, will go through with a boxing exhibition he announced in early March against retired Greek kickboxer Mike Zambidis on June 27 at Telekom Center in Athens, Greece. The six-round exhibition will headline the “Battle of Legends” event on DAZN PPV, it was announced on Wednesday.Hear it all on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

Big Fight Weekend
Bam Rodriguez Conversation With Dan Rafael 6 9 26

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 11:29 Transcription Available


Coming up Saturday night in Arizona, unified 115 lb. champ Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez steps up to challenge Antonio Vargas for the WBA world bantamweight title.It would be the San Antonio, TX native Bam's third world title win in a third different weight division and he also has his sights set on a much, much, bigger name in Naoya "The Monster" Inoue. Hear one of the best pound for pound fighters in the world discuss it all with our insider Dan Rafael in this one on one interview.It's all part of a special "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast" on this feed and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

Big Fight Weekend
Bam Rodriguez Conversation With Dan Rafael 6 9 26

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 11:29 Transcription Available


Coming up Saturday night in Arizona, unified 115 lb. champ Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez steps up to challenge Antonio Vargas for the WBA world bantamweight title.It would be the San Antonio, TX native Bam's third world title win in a third different weight division and he also has his sights set on a much, much, bigger name in Naoya "The Monster" Inoue. Hear one of the best pound for pound fighters in the world discuss it all with our insider Dan Rafael in this one on one interview.It's all part of a special "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast" on this feed and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

Big Fight Weekend
Chris Billam-Smith Wins Wild Bout And Masamichi Yabuki Defends IBF Title + Fight News | Fight Freaks Unite Recap

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 68:14 Transcription Available


It was a busy fight weekend in England, Japan and even Montreal and we're ready to go over it all and some fight news and great nostalgia on the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and newsletter and are full of takes and insight.Fisrt, a recap of Saturday's Zuffa Boxing Paramount+/Sky Sports main event in Bournemouth, EnglandChris Billam-Smith TKO 7 over Ryan Rozicki, cruiserweights. This was a wild slugfest won by Billam-Smith. Now, how big a fight will he get next? Next, a recap of the Saturday Kameda Promotions show in Tokoname, JapanMasamichi Yabuki W12 Rene Calixto and retains IBF flyweight title.Andrew Moloney edges out Willibaldo Garcia in 12 and wins IBF junior bantamweight titleAnd, John Riel Casimero TKO4 Luis Nery, featherweights We also recap Thursday night's  Eye of the Tiger/DAZN card in MontrealAlbert Ramirez W12 Lerrone Richards, retains WBA interim light heavyweight title. A TREMENDOUSLY controversial decision according to Big Dan. And, Jhon Orobio and Imam Khataev won on the undercard.Next, some newsFormer middleweight and junior middleweight titlist Demetrius Andrade is returning to the ring for the first time in 2½ years on July 24th. We have more.Next, Dana White at his post fight presser after Saturday's card in England agains insisted he/Zuffa will be the promoter for Joshua-Fury, while Eddie Hearn and Frank Warren say otherwise. We go over the "preschool fighting over the toy."Also, Zuffa announces their next overseas show – August 8 at 3Arena in Dublin. Etinosa Oliha vs. Aaron McKenna headliner for the vacant IBF middleweight title and middleweight Callum Walsh vs. Tyler Denny in the co-feature.Dan has learned junior middleweight contender Charles Conwell, out of action since his only loss in April 2025, will be back on the Lamont Roach Jr.-William Zepeda card Aug. 1 (DAZN, TNT, truTV).And, it's official: Katie Taylor vs. Flora Pili for undisputed women's junior welterweight title Sept. 5 (DAZN) at 82,000-seat Croke Park in Dublin. The presser was Friday and it will be the first boxing event there since Muhammad Ali KO11Alvin “Blue” Lewis July 19, 1972.Finally, the guys look back on the historic Oscar De La Hoya win over legend Julio Cesar Chavez on June 7, 1996. It was the "passing of the torch" fight in Mexican boxing history with a twsit on it. Dan explains the siginificance. And, we go over other nostalgia from Lennox Lewis to Iran Barkley to Miguel Cotto on this day, too.It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Big Fight Weekend
Chris Billam-Smith Wins Wild Bout And Masamichi Yabuki Defends IBF Title + Fight News | Fight Freaks Unite Recap

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 68:14 Transcription Available


It was a busy fight weekend in England, Japan and even Montreal and we're ready to go over it all and some fight news and great nostalgia on the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and newsletter and are full of takes and insight.Fisrt, a recap of Saturday's Zuffa Boxing Paramount+/Sky Sports main event in Bournemouth, EnglandChris Billam-Smith TKO 7 over Ryan Rozicki, cruiserweights. This was a wild slugfest won by Billam-Smith. Now, how big a fight will he get next? Next, a recap of the Saturday Kameda Promotions show in Tokoname, JapanMasamichi Yabuki W12 Rene Calixto and retains IBF flyweight title.Andrew Moloney edges out Willibaldo Garcia in 12 and wins IBF junior bantamweight titleAnd, John Riel Casimero TKO4 Luis Nery, featherweights We also recap Thursday night's  Eye of the Tiger/DAZN card in MontrealAlbert Ramirez W12 Lerrone Richards, retains WBA interim light heavyweight title. A TREMENDOUSLY controversial decision according to Big Dan. And, Jhon Orobio and Imam Khataev won on the undercard.Next, some newsFormer middleweight and junior middleweight titlist Demetrius Andrade is returning to the ring for the first time in 2½ years on July 24th. We have more.Next, Dana White at his post fight presser after Saturday's card in England agains insisted he/Zuffa will be the promoter for Joshua-Fury, while Eddie Hearn and Frank Warren say otherwise. We go over the "preschool fighting over the toy."Also, Zuffa announces their next overseas show – August 8 at 3Arena in Dublin. Etinosa Oliha vs. Aaron McKenna headliner for the vacant IBF middleweight title and middleweight Callum Walsh vs. Tyler Denny in the co-feature.Dan has learned junior middleweight contender Charles Conwell, out of action since his only loss in April 2025, will be back on the Lamont Roach Jr.-William Zepeda card Aug. 1 (DAZN, TNT, truTV).And, it's official: Katie Taylor vs. Flora Pili for undisputed women's junior welterweight title Sept. 5 (DAZN) at 82,000-seat Croke Park in Dublin. The presser was Friday and it will be the first boxing event there since Muhammad Ali KO11Alvin “Blue” Lewis July 19, 1972.Finally, the guys look back on the historic Oscar De La Hoya win over legend Julio Cesar Chavez on June 7, 1996. It was the "passing of the torch" fight in Mexican boxing history with a twsit on it. Dan explains the siginificance. And, we go over other nostalgia from Lennox Lewis to Iran Barkley to Miguel Cotto on this day, too.It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Big Fight Weekend
Bam Rodriguez Joins Us + Chris Billam-Smith Debuts For Zuffa And Champ Doubleheader In Japan | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 75:13 Transcription Available


We're back in June with a cruiserweight contender battle in England, a championship doubleheader in Japan and one of the best pound for pound fighters in the sport joins us, as well, on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael to go over it all with their insight and takes.They start with a preview of the Saturday Zuffa Boxing Paramount+/Sky Sports main event in Bournemouth, EnglandChris Billam-Smith vs. Ryan Rozicki, 10 rounds, cruiserweights. Is the winner in position for Zuffa's Jai Opetaia? It seems so. Also, a preview of the early Saturday (USA time) Kameda Promotions carfd in Tokoname, JapanMasamichi Yabuki vs. Rene Calixto, for Yabuki's IBF flyweight title. Yabuki is a tremendous puncher but Calixto has world title experience, Plus, Willibaldo Garcia vs. Andrew Moloney, for Garcia's IBF junior bantamweight title is discussed, too.Then, Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez talks with Dan-The lineal and three-belt junior bantamweight champion moves up to bantamweight to challenge WBA titleholder Antonio Vargas on June 13 at Glendale, Arizona, and a win likely will propel him to a Naoya Inoue undisputed junior featherweight title fight in the Fall. Hear more from one of the best in the sport! And, some news:In an unusual ruling, the WBC has ordered cruiserweight titlist Noel Mikaelian to next make a mandatory defense against David Benavidez, the unified WBO/WBA cruiserweight champ, who also still holds the WBC light heavyweight title. There is debate here over all of this.Next, Irish national hero Katie Taylor, the unified women's junior welterweight champion and one of the top female boxers of all time, will get her wish for her retirement fight to take place at famed Croke Park in Dublin. There is a Friday presser at the famed venue for an announcement that will be the Taylor fight. She will face IBF mandatory challenger Flora Pili on September 5th, also for the vacant WBC title.  Also, Lindolfo Delgado (Top Rank Boxing) and Eye of the Tiger fighter Arthur Biyarslanov are negotiating the vacant IBF junior welterweight title fight that was ordered after Teofimo Lopez (moving up), Oscar Duarte (injured) and Keyshawn Davis (moving up), all ahead of Biyarslanov in the IBF rankings, turned down the fight.  Now official: Lamont Roach-William Zepeda for the vacant WBC lightweight title fight has been announced for August 1st at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. It wiill headline Golden Boy card on DAZN and be simulcast on TNT and truTV in the US.Finally, Wednesday marked the 10th anniversary of Muhammad Ali's death. The boys discuss the greatness of Ali for awhile.It's all on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Big Fight Weekend
Bam Rodriguez Joins Us + Chris Billam-Smith Debuts For Zuffa And Champ Doubleheader In Japan | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 75:13 Transcription Available


We're back in June with a cruiserweight contender battle in England, a championship doubleheader in Japan and one of the best pound for pound fighters in the sport joins us, as well, on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael to go over it all with their insight and takes.They start with a preview of the Saturday Zuffa Boxing Paramount+/Sky Sports main event in Bournemouth, EnglandChris Billam-Smith vs. Ryan Rozicki, 10 rounds, cruiserweights. Is the winner in position for Zuffa's Jai Opetaia? It seems so. Also, a preview of the early Saturday (USA time) Kameda Promotions carfd in Tokoname, JapanMasamichi Yabuki vs. Rene Calixto, for Yabuki's IBF flyweight title. Yabuki is a tremendous puncher but Calixto has world title experience, Plus, Willibaldo Garcia vs. Andrew Moloney, for Garcia's IBF junior bantamweight title is discussed, too.Then, Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez talks with Dan-The lineal and three-belt junior bantamweight champion moves up to bantamweight to challenge WBA titleholder Antonio Vargas on June 13 at Glendale, Arizona, and a win likely will propel him to a Naoya Inoue undisputed junior featherweight title fight in the Fall. Hear more from one of the best in the sport! And, some news:In an unusual ruling, the WBC has ordered cruiserweight titlist Noel Mikaelian to next make a mandatory defense against David Benavidez, the unified WBO/WBA cruiserweight champ, who also still holds the WBC light heavyweight title. There is debate here over all of this.Next, Irish national hero Katie Taylor, the unified women's junior welterweight champion and one of the top female boxers of all time, will get her wish for her retirement fight to take place at famed Croke Park in Dublin. There is a Friday presser at the famed venue for an announcement that will be the Taylor fight. She will face IBF mandatory challenger Flora Pili on September 5th, also for the vacant WBC title.  Also, Lindolfo Delgado (Top Rank Boxing) and Eye of the Tiger fighter Arthur Biyarslanov are negotiating the vacant IBF junior welterweight title fight that was ordered after Teofimo Lopez (moving up), Oscar Duarte (injured) and Keyshawn Davis (moving up), all ahead of Biyarslanov in the IBF rankings, turned down the fight.  Now official: Lamont Roach-William Zepeda for the vacant WBC lightweight title fight has been announced for August 1st at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. It wiill headline Golden Boy card on DAZN and be simulcast on TNT and truTV in the US.Finally, Wednesday marked the 10th anniversary of Muhammad Ali's death. The boys discuss the greatness of Ali for awhile.It's all on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Big Fight Weekend
O'Shaquie Foster and Dmitry Bivol Defend Titles Easily + Fight News! | Fight Freaks Unite Recap

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2026 65:38 Transcription Available


A busy championship weekend at two sites in Texas and in Russia and we're ready to go over all of the action and have some fight news on the newest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and Newsletter return with their insight and takes.First, they recap Saturday's Matchroom Boxing DAZN card in HoustonO'Shaquie Foster W12 Ray Ford, retains WBC junior lightweight title. We have more on Foster's victory and what's next for him?Next, a recap of Saturday's RCC Boxing DAZN main event in Ekaterinburg, RussiaDmitry Bivol returns and W112 over a pathetic Michael Eifert and retains lineal/unified lightweight titles. Will we see a thrid Beterbiev bout or David Benavidez instead   And, a recap of Saturday's MVP ESPN card in El Paso, TexasStephanie Han W10 majority Holly Holm in a rematch and retains WBA women's lightweight title. Was this close fight rightfully given to Han?And, Amanda Serrano TKO2 Cheyenne Hanson, retains WBO/WBA women's featherweight title. The future hall of famer also matches a KO record. We debate that and her future.Finally, a recap of Saturday's Boxxer main event in LondonJunior welterweight Adam Azim TKO3 Steve Claggett. Azim is on the rise and we have more.  Then, some newsPlans for the Golden Boy DAZN card on Aug. 1 headlined by William Zepeda-Lamont Roach for the vacant WBC lightweight title to now include IBF titlist Ray Muratalla defense vs. Robson Conceicao in the co-feature with plans for the winners to unify later in the year.Former two-division titleholder Jermall Charlo, whose personal issues and mental health problems have limited him to just two fights since 2021, will be back on the Errol Spence-Tim Tszyu undercard on July 25. Charlo has been virtuallyl non-existent in the ring over the last 5 years.And, Forbes put out their top 50 highest-paid athletes from May 2025 to May 2026 and it includes two combat athlete: No. 2 Canelo Alvarez and No. 23 Jake Paul. We talk the BIG bucks!It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Big Fight Weekend
O'Shaquie Foster and Dmitry Bivol Defend Titles Easily + Fight News! | Fight Freaks Unite Recap

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2026 65:38 Transcription Available


A busy championship weekend at two sites in Texas and in Russia and we're ready to go over all of the action and have some fight news on the newest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and Newsletter return with their insight and takes.First, they recap Saturday's Matchroom Boxing DAZN card in HoustonO'Shaquie Foster W12 Ray Ford, retains WBC junior lightweight title. We have more on Foster's victory and what's next for him?Next, a recap of Saturday's RCC Boxing DAZN main event in Ekaterinburg, RussiaDmitry Bivol returns and W112 over a pathetic Michael Eifert and retains lineal/unified lightweight titles. Will we see a thrid Beterbiev bout or David Benavidez instead   And, a recap of Saturday's MVP ESPN card in El Paso, TexasStephanie Han W10 majority Holly Holm in a rematch and retains WBA women's lightweight title. Was this close fight rightfully given to Han?And, Amanda Serrano TKO2 Cheyenne Hanson, retains WBO/WBA women's featherweight title. The future hall of famer also matches a KO record. We debate that and her future.Finally, a recap of Saturday's Boxxer main event in LondonJunior welterweight Adam Azim TKO3 Steve Claggett. Azim is on the rise and we have more.  Then, some newsPlans for the Golden Boy DAZN card on Aug. 1 headlined by William Zepeda-Lamont Roach for the vacant WBC lightweight title to now include IBF titlist Ray Muratalla defense vs. Robson Conceicao in the co-feature with plans for the winners to unify later in the year.Former two-division titleholder Jermall Charlo, whose personal issues and mental health problems have limited him to just two fights since 2021, will be back on the Errol Spence-Tim Tszyu undercard on July 25. Charlo has been virtuallyl non-existent in the ring over the last 5 years.And, Forbes put out their top 50 highest-paid athletes from May 2025 to May 2026 and it includes two combat athlete: No. 2 Canelo Alvarez and No. 23 Jake Paul. We talk the BIG bucks!It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Big Fight Weekend
Rico Verhoeven Conversation With Dan Rafael 5 30 26 | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2026 12:57 Transcription Available


Off his tremendous showing in the unified heavyweight fight last Saturday night with Oleksandr Usyk, former kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven made a lot of believers in him/his boxing ability in a hurry.Although the fight ended officially with an 11th-round TKO loss to Usyk, he was arguably winning the fight headed into the final rounds.Now, hear Verhoeven with our insider Dan Rafael in a one on one conversation about the bout, the respect he has earned and most importantly- what will be next for him?It's all part of our "Big Fight Weekend" Podcast feed and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Big Fight Weekend
Rico Verhoeven Conversation With Dan Rafael 5 30 26 | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2026 12:57 Transcription Available


Off his tremendous showing in the unified heavyweight fight last Saturday night with Oleksandr Usyk, former kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven made a lot of believers in him/his boxing ability in a hurry.Although the fight ended officially with an 11th-round TKO loss to Usyk, he was arguably winning the fight headed into the final rounds.Now, hear Verhoeven with our insider Dan Rafael in a one on one conversation about the bout, the respect he has earned and most importantly- what will be next for him?It's all part of our "Big Fight Weekend" Podcast feed and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Big Fight Weekend
O'Shaquie Foster-Raymond Ford Battle In Houston, Dmitry Bivol Defends + Rico Verhoeven Joins Us! | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2026 68:53 Transcription Available


We are back to preview fights in the month of May for the final time, as their aro title bouts in Houston and El Paso, TX and Russia to go over. Plus, the man who was winning the heavyweight title fight in Egypt last weekend (until he wasn't) joins us for a conversation on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael to give their takes and insight on all that's going on in and out of the ring.First, they preview the Matchroom Boxing main event Saturday on DAZN in HoustonO'Shaquie Foster vs. Raymond Ford, for Foster's WBC junior lightweight title. A compelling fight between two known Americans with the Texan Foster looking for bigger things if he defends.Next, the RCC/Matchroom Boxing main event earlier Saturday on DAZN in Ekaterinburg, Russia on DAZN.Dmitry Bivol is back meeting mandatory challenger Michael Eifert, for Bivol's lineal/IBF/WBA light heavyweight title. But, the WBO won't sanction the bout. We have the latest on this one.And, also the MVP ESPN card Saturday night in El Paso, Texas, on ESPNStephanie Han vs. Holly Holm, rematch, for Han's WBA women's lightweight title. Dan wants to know "What are We DOING HERE?!" Plus, Amanda Serrano vs. Cheyenne Hanson, for Serrano's WBO/WBA women's featherweight title in the co-feature.Next RICO VERHOEVEN INTERVIEW with Big DanDiscussion of his 11th-round TKO loss challenging heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk this past Saturday at the Pyramids in Giza, Egypt. How and why did he do so well and does he want to keep boxing or not? And, then some newsWBA orders lightweight titlist Gervonta Davis to make mandatory vs. Floyd Schofield but "Tank" has more bigger problems outside the ring with a new warrant for his arrest in Maryland related to an alleged probation violation from his hit and run plea there. He's also facing domestic violence charges in South Florida and as T.J. says, it may be jail time coming in Maryland for probation violation.Next, it was announced: Murat Gassiev will defend the WBA “regular” heavyweight title (yawn) against Tony Yoka in the headliner of an IBA Pro card on July 11 at VTB Arena in Moscow.Former two-time heavyweight titleholder Hasim Rahman, who is 53 and been retired since 2014, is planning a comeback: July 14 at Rochester's ESL Ballpark. BIG- WHAT. ARE. WE DOING. HERE?! The man is 53 and was beaten and beaten and beaten in the last few years of his career.Also, Keyshawn Davis has declined the opportunity to face fellow Top Rank fighter Lindolfo Delgado for the vacant IBF junior welterweight title, because he plans to move up to welterweight. We have more.Plus, the results from two IBF purse bids conducted Wednesday at their convention in Vietnam for Albert Bell-Andy Cruz lightweight final eliminator and Bakhram Murtazaliev-Brandon Adams junior middleweight final eliminator are discussed briefly.It's all part of the "BFW Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!!

Big Fight Weekend
O'Shaquie Foster-Raymond Ford Battle In Houston, Dmitry Bivol Defends + Rico Verhoeven Joins Us! | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2026 68:53 Transcription Available


We are back to preview fights in the month of May for the final time, as their aro title bouts in Houston and El Paso, TX and Russia to go over. Plus, the man who was winning the heavyweight title fight in Egypt last weekend (until he wasn't) joins us for a conversation on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael to give their takes and insight on all that's going on in and out of the ring.First, they preview the Matchroom Boxing main event Saturday on DAZN in HoustonO'Shaquie Foster vs. Raymond Ford, for Foster's WBC junior lightweight title. A compelling fight between two known Americans with the Texan Foster looking for bigger things if he defends.Next, the RCC/Matchroom Boxing main event earlier Saturday on DAZN in Ekaterinburg, Russia on DAZN.Dmitry Bivol is back meeting mandatory challenger Michael Eifert, for Bivol's lineal/IBF/WBA light heavyweight title. But, the WBO won't sanction the bout. We have the latest on this one.And, also the MVP ESPN card Saturday night in El Paso, Texas, on ESPNStephanie Han vs. Holly Holm, rematch, for Han's WBA women's lightweight title. Dan wants to know "What are We DOING HERE?!" Plus, Amanda Serrano vs. Cheyenne Hanson, for Serrano's WBO/WBA women's featherweight title in the co-feature.Next RICO VERHOEVEN INTERVIEW with Big DanDiscussion of his 11th-round TKO loss challenging heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk this past Saturday at the Pyramids in Giza, Egypt. How and why did he do so well and does he want to keep boxing or not? And, then some newsWBA orders lightweight titlist Gervonta Davis to make mandatory vs. Floyd Schofield but "Tank" has more bigger problems outside the ring with a new warrant for his arrest in Maryland related to an alleged probation violation from his hit and run plea there. He's also facing domestic violence charges in South Florida and as T.J. says, it may be jail time coming in Maryland for probation violation.Next, it was announced: Murat Gassiev will defend the WBA “regular” heavyweight title (yawn) against Tony Yoka in the headliner of an IBA Pro card on July 11 at VTB Arena in Moscow.Former two-time heavyweight titleholder Hasim Rahman, who is 53 and been retired since 2014, is planning a comeback: July 14 at Rochester's ESL Ballpark. BIG- WHAT. ARE. WE DOING. HERE?! The man is 53 and was beaten and beaten and beaten in the last few years of his career.Also, Keyshawn Davis has declined the opportunity to face fellow Top Rank fighter Lindolfo Delgado for the vacant IBF junior welterweight title, because he plans to move up to welterweight. We have more.Plus, the results from two IBF purse bids conducted Wednesday at their convention in Vietnam for Albert Bell-Andy Cruz lightweight final eliminator and Bakhram Murtazaliev-Brandon Adams junior middleweight final eliminator are discussed briefly.It's all part of the "BFW Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!!

Big Fight Weekend
Oleksandr Usyk Meets Kickboxer Verhoeven In Egypt + Hamzah Sheeraz And Richard Torrez On Card and Fight News! | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2026 62:06 Transcription Available


We're ready for a heavyweight title showdown in an unusual place, the Pyramids of Egypt, as Oleksandr Usyk is back in 2026 to defend against a kick boxing champion. We cover over the full card and lots of fight news too on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael to go over it all and give their takes and predictions.They start with Saturday's Ring magazine DAZN PPV card in Giza, EgyptOleksandr Usyk vs. Rico Verhoeven, 12 rounds, for lineal/WBC heavyweight title. Will this be a joke/easy work for Usyk or does Verhoeven get lucky and make it interesting?Also, Hamzah Sheeraz vs. Alem Begic, 12 rounds, for vacant WBO super middleweight title. Sheeraz is a rising star in search of a world title and could be a future opponent for Canelo down the road.Next, Shakhram Giyasov vs. Jack Catterall, 12 rounds, for vacant WBA “regular” welterweight title.And, Frank Sanchez vs Richard Torrez Jr., 12 rounds, IBF heavyweight eliminator. A big step up for Torrez in level of competition. Also, Friday night's Golden Boy DAZN card in San Jose, California Rising Amari Jones vs. Vincenzo Gualtieri, 12 rounds, IBF middleweight eliminator. Dan has big expectations for Jones in this one.Next, some newsDuring Ryan Garcia's appearance on "The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon" on Monday, he announced he is fighting Conor Benn on Sept. 12 in Las Vegas. It may be happening, but we doubt that date and same time as the Canelo PPV in Saudi Arabia.Next, Dan is reporting that Zuffa Boxing is planning its first American card outside of Las Vegas for July 26in NY, where Edgar Berlanga, Richardson Hitchins & Sergey Derevyanchenko will all be on the card.  Also, William Zepeda and Lamont Roach Jr., who have had a deal in place for weeks, will meet for the vacant WBC lightweight title in the headliner of a Golden Boy card on August 1, probably at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. The card will also be an edition of “The Fight” series and simulcast from DAZN on TNT in the U.S.  MVP Promotions has banned Claressa Shields from all its future events after she got into a physical altercation with MVP fighter Alycia Baumgardner during the MVP-promoted MMA card topped by Ronda Rousey-Gina Carano on Saturday nightt. Can't we all get along?And, finally, a few words on the death at age 81 of significant manager Dennis Rappaport, who co-managed Gerry Cooney to the heavyweight title shot vs. Holmes in their mega fight and managed Oleg Maskaev to the WBC heavyweight title in 2008. Dan dealt with this character of the sport in the 2000s and remembers him fondly.It's all part of the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcat" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Big Fight Weekend
Oleksandr Usyk Meets Kickboxer Verhoeven In Egypt + Hamzah Sheeraz And Richard Torrez On Card and Fight News! | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2026 62:06 Transcription Available


We're ready for a heavyweight title showdown in an unusual place, the Pyramids of Egypt, as Oleksandr Usyk is back in 2026 to defend against a kick boxing champion. We cover over the full card and lots of fight news too on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael to go over it all and give their takes and predictions.They start with Saturday's Ring magazine DAZN PPV card in Giza, EgyptOleksandr Usyk vs. Rico Verhoeven, 12 rounds, for lineal/WBC heavyweight title. Will this be a joke/easy work for Usyk or does Verhoeven get lucky and make it interesting?Also, Hamzah Sheeraz vs. Alem Begic, 12 rounds, for vacant WBO super middleweight title. Sheeraz is a rising star in search of a world title and could be a future opponent for Canelo down the road.Next, Shakhram Giyasov vs. Jack Catterall, 12 rounds, for vacant WBA “regular” welterweight title.And, Frank Sanchez vs Richard Torrez Jr., 12 rounds, IBF heavyweight eliminator. A big step up for Torrez in level of competition. Also, Friday night's Golden Boy DAZN card in San Jose, California Rising Amari Jones vs. Vincenzo Gualtieri, 12 rounds, IBF middleweight eliminator. Dan has big expectations for Jones in this one.Next, some newsDuring Ryan Garcia's appearance on "The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon" on Monday, he announced he is fighting Conor Benn on Sept. 12 in Las Vegas. It may be happening, but we doubt that date and same time as the Canelo PPV in Saudi Arabia.Next, Dan is reporting that Zuffa Boxing is planning its first American card outside of Las Vegas for July 26in NY, where Edgar Berlanga, Richardson Hitchins & Sergey Derevyanchenko will all be on the card.  Also, William Zepeda and Lamont Roach Jr., who have had a deal in place for weeks, will meet for the vacant WBC lightweight title in the headliner of a Golden Boy card on August 1, probably at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. The card will also be an edition of “The Fight” series and simulcast from DAZN on TNT in the U.S.  MVP Promotions has banned Claressa Shields from all its future events after she got into a physical altercation with MVP fighter Alycia Baumgardner during the MVP-promoted MMA card topped by Ronda Rousey-Gina Carano on Saturday nightt. Can't we all get along?And, finally, a few words on the death at age 81 of significant manager Dennis Rappaport, who co-managed Gerry Cooney to the heavyweight title shot vs. Holmes in their mega fight and managed Oleg Maskaev to the WBC heavyweight title in 2008. Dan dealt with this character of the sport in the 2000s and remembers him fondly.It's all part of the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcat" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Big Fight Weekend
Keyshawn Davis Wins But More Controversy + Filip Hrgovic Does Too And Fight News! | Fight Freaks Unite

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2026 63:38 Transcription Available


We had a busy weekend of main events in Norfolk, VA, Doncaster, England and even Germany, and we're ready to go over the action and some fight news 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 give insight and analysis.They start with the Saturday night Top Rank/DAZN main event in Norfolk, VirginiaFirst Top Rank event of its DAZN deal, Bob Arum, age 94, back at ringside after knee replacement surgery that had kept him from traveling for months.Junior welterweight Keyshawn Davis wins the main event in 12 over Nahir Albright, but does something stupid, again, during the fight, this time. Will he learn? Will it continue to cost the talented fighter in the future?Also, Welterweight Brian Norman scored a TKO2 over Josh Wagner with a brain dead referee trying to adminsiter the count and then not stopping the fight, when he should have. What. Are. We. Doing Here?Then, the Saturday Queensberry DAZN main event in Doncaster, EnglandHeavyweight Filip Hrgovic scores a lopsided TKO3 over veteran Dave Allen, who needs to retire. Hrgovic is apparently next for Moses Itauama. The guys have the latest.And, back on Friday main event, on DAZN in Mannheim, Germany-Welterweight Paddy Donovan decisions Karen Chukhadzhian for an IBF final eliminator. Will Donovan get another fight with Lewis Crocker? We go over it all. NEWSCanelo Alvarez vs. and newly elevated, WBC super middleweight titlist Christian Mbilli officially announced for September in Saudi Arabia. The guys wonder if Canelo has agreed to fight early Sunday a.m. again, there or not?Also, former WBO heavyweight titlist Fabio Wardley has exercized his contractual right to an immediate rematch with Daniel Dubois, so, they will meet again later this year.  The WBA and IBF have finally weighed in on the status of their belts for the Oleksandr Usyk-Rico Verhoeven fight on Saturday May 23rd at the Pyramids in Giza Egypt. Get ready to be confused.Junior welterweight contender Oscar Duarte will be sidelined until late this year due to a severe laceration he suffered behind his ear in a split decision over Angel Fierro on May 2 so he has passed on fighting Lindlfo Delgado for the vacant IBF junior welterweight title. Dan has more.And, another change to the Matchroom main event on June 6: WBC interim flyweight titlist Galal Yafai is injured and out of a mandatory fight with WBC/WBA titleholder Ricardo Sandoval.It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscibe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Big Fight Weekend
Keyshawn Davis Wins But More Controversy + Filip Hrgovic Does Too And Fight News! | Fight Freaks Unite

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2026 63:38 Transcription Available


We had a busy weekend of main events in Norfolk, VA, Doncaster, England and even Germany, and we're ready to go over the action and some fight news 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 give insight and analysis.They start with the Saturday night Top Rank/DAZN main event in Norfolk, VirginiaFirst Top Rank event of its DAZN deal, Bob Arum, age 94, back at ringside after knee replacement surgery that had kept him from traveling for months.Junior welterweight Keyshawn Davis wins the main event in 12 over Nahir Albright, but does something stupid, again, during the fight, this time. Will he learn? Will it continue to cost the talented fighter in the future?Also, Welterweight Brian Norman scored a TKO2 over Josh Wagner with a brain dead referee trying to adminsiter the count and then not stopping the fight, when he should have. What. Are. We. Doing Here?Then, the Saturday Queensberry DAZN main event in Doncaster, EnglandHeavyweight Filip Hrgovic scores a lopsided TKO3 over veteran Dave Allen, who needs to retire. Hrgovic is apparently next for Moses Itauama. The guys have the latest.And, back on Friday main event, on DAZN in Mannheim, Germany-Welterweight Paddy Donovan decisions Karen Chukhadzhian for an IBF final eliminator. Will Donovan get another fight with Lewis Crocker? We go over it all. NEWSCanelo Alvarez vs. and newly elevated, WBC super middleweight titlist Christian Mbilli officially announced for September in Saudi Arabia. The guys wonder if Canelo has agreed to fight early Sunday a.m. again, there or not?Also, former WBO heavyweight titlist Fabio Wardley has exercized his contractual right to an immediate rematch with Daniel Dubois, so, they will meet again later this year.  The WBA and IBF have finally weighed in on the status of their belts for the Oleksandr Usyk-Rico Verhoeven fight on Saturday May 23rd at the Pyramids in Giza Egypt. Get ready to be confused.Junior welterweight contender Oscar Duarte will be sidelined until late this year due to a severe laceration he suffered behind his ear in a split decision over Angel Fierro on May 2 so he has passed on fighting Lindlfo Delgado for the vacant IBF junior welterweight title. Dan has more.And, another change to the Matchroom main event on June 6: WBC interim flyweight titlist Galal Yafai is injured and out of a mandatory fight with WBC/WBA titleholder Ricardo Sandoval.It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscibe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Big Fight Weekend
Keyshawn Davis Returns + Big Opportunity For Filip Hrgovic And Fight News | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2026 55:51 Transcription Available


It's a weekend without a significant world title bout but there are some interesting fights from Virginia to the U.K. and we'll go over it all with some fight news on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael to go over it all.Preview of Saturday's Top Rank DAZN card in Norfolk, Virginia and the first event of Top Rank's new DAZN deal:Keyshawn Davis vs. Nahir Albright, in a rematch, 12 rounds, junior welterweights. Has Keyshawn fully gotten his act together, especially when he fought with Albright out of the ring in his locker room last year after he missed weight cancelling his main event?Also, former world champ Brian Norman vs. Josh Wagner, 10 rounds, welterweights. It's Norman's first bout since losing the WBO title to Devin Haney and he wants to look good.Then, it's a preview of Saturday's Queensberry DAZN card in Doncaster, EnglandDave Allen vs. Filip Hrgovic, 10 rounds, heavyweights. It's an opportunity for the Croatian Hrgovic to look good and likely fight unbeaten rising star heavyweight Moses Itauma next in August. We discuss.Then, some newsThree-division champion and former pound-for-pound king Vasiliy Lomachenko, who has not fought since May 2024 and announced his retirement in June 2025, is ending his retirement to return this fall. Whom will he fight? Dan has more also on Top Rank and DAZN working on April 8 IBF title defense for Ray Muratalla and discussing two opponents,  But would this be Loma trying to get his belt back against Muratalla? Dan has the latest.Next, Jake Paul said in an interview this week with Ariel Helwani that he may not be able to fight again due to the severity of the broken jaw he suffered vs. Anthony Joshua in December. The guys discuss it and his options, if he doesn't box anymore.Heavyweight Derek Chisora said this week to Sky Sports he is ending his extremely brief retirement – since the April 4 Wilder fight -- with permission from his wife and claims he is getting a rematch with Wilder. IBF welterweight titlist Lewis Crocker will make his mandatory defense against Liam Paro on June 24th at Pat Rafter Arena in Paro's hometown of Brisbane, Australia, No Limit Boxing announced the details on Tuesday.  The fight between middleweight Amari Jones and former IBF titlist Vincenzo Gualtieri, which headlines a Golden Boy card on May 22 (DAZN) in San Jose, California, has now been elevated to an official IBF title eliminator.  We also take a look back to Sunday night's Zuffa card in Las Vegas: Middleweight Shane Mosley Jr., with his Hall of Fame father Shane Sr. at ringside, notched the biggest win of his career with a sixth-round knockout of Serhii Bohachuk in the Zuffa Boxing 06. It's all on the latest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Big Fight Weekend
Keyshawn Davis Returns + Big Opportunity For Filip Hrgovic And Fight News | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2026 55:51 Transcription Available


It's a weekend without a significant world title bout but there are some interesting fights from Virginia to the U.K. and we'll go over it all with some fight news on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael to go over it all.Preview of Saturday's Top Rank DAZN card in Norfolk, Virginia and the first event of Top Rank's new DAZN deal:Keyshawn Davis vs. Nahir Albright, in a rematch, 12 rounds, junior welterweights. Has Keyshawn fully gotten his act together, especially when he fought with Albright out of the ring in his locker room last year after he missed weight cancelling his main event?Also, former world champ Brian Norman vs. Josh Wagner, 10 rounds, welterweights. It's Norman's first bout since losing the WBO title to Devin Haney and he wants to look good.Then, it's a preview of Saturday's Queensberry DAZN card in Doncaster, EnglandDave Allen vs. Filip Hrgovic, 10 rounds, heavyweights. It's an opportunity for the Croatian Hrgovic to look good and likely fight unbeaten rising star heavyweight Moses Itauma next in August. We discuss.Then, some newsThree-division champion and former pound-for-pound king Vasiliy Lomachenko, who has not fought since May 2024 and announced his retirement in June 2025, is ending his retirement to return this fall. Whom will he fight? Dan has more also on Top Rank and DAZN working on April 8 IBF title defense for Ray Muratalla and discussing two opponents,  But would this be Loma trying to get his belt back against Muratalla? Dan has the latest.Next, Jake Paul said in an interview this week with Ariel Helwani that he may not be able to fight again due to the severity of the broken jaw he suffered vs. Anthony Joshua in December. The guys discuss it and his options, if he doesn't box anymore.Heavyweight Derek Chisora said this week to Sky Sports he is ending his extremely brief retirement – since the April 4 Wilder fight -- with permission from his wife and claims he is getting a rematch with Wilder. IBF welterweight titlist Lewis Crocker will make his mandatory defense against Liam Paro on June 24th at Pat Rafter Arena in Paro's hometown of Brisbane, Australia, No Limit Boxing announced the details on Tuesday.  The fight between middleweight Amari Jones and former IBF titlist Vincenzo Gualtieri, which headlines a Golden Boy card on May 22 (DAZN) in San Jose, California, has now been elevated to an official IBF title eliminator.  We also take a look back to Sunday night's Zuffa card in Las Vegas: Middleweight Shane Mosley Jr., with his Hall of Fame father Shane Sr. at ringside, notched the biggest win of his career with a sixth-round knockout of Serhii Bohachuk in the Zuffa Boxing 06. It's all on the latest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

The 3 Knockdown Rule
3KDR: Legendary Sportswriter Dan Rafael Joins us to Talk Benavidez, Summer Fights, MayPac II Excitement Level & More!

The 3 Knockdown Rule

Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2026 58:37


Mario Lopez and Steve kim are joined by Legendary Sportswriter Dan Rafael to Talk Benavidez, Summer Fights, MayPac II Excitement Level, Zuffa Boxing & More!

Big Fight Weekend
Daniel Dubois Batters Fabio Wardley For WBO Heavyweight Crown + Fight News! | Fight Freaks Unite Recap

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2026 67:08 Transcription Available


It was dramatic and it was brutal and we're ready to recap the WBO heavyweight world title fight won by Daniel Dubois. Plus, we had a featherweight world title fight nixed at the weigh in and controversy continues through the weekend. And, we have fight news too on the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and Newsletter with their takes.They give a full recap of Saturday's Queensberry DAZN PPV in Manchester, EnglandThey start with the Dubois TKO11 Fabio Wardley, as he wins the WBO title. T.J. is adamant that no one cared about the safety of Wardley late in the fight. Dan gives his rebuttal and they also talk the future now for Dubois.They also go over the undercard where:Welterweight Jack Rafferty scored a TKO6 over Ekow EssumanZak Chelli 's stunning TKO10 of David Morrell in a light heavyweight battleAnd gigantic Bakhodir Jalolov TKO7 vs. Agron Smakici but he isn't showing promise and progress enough for Dan at this point. Then it's fight newsFeatherweight contender Ra'eese Aleem badly missed weight on Friday and his mandatory fight with IBF titlist Angelo Leo was canceled though the rest of the Salita Promotions' DAZN card went on Saturday night.Next, SI's Chris Mannix is reporting that Shakur Stevenson on verge of signing with "Zuffa Boxing" a.k.a. Turki Alashikh bankrolling for Ring PPVs.Also, Lightweights Edwin De Los Santos and Jose Valenzuela will meet in a 10-round rematch their shootout that will headline Zuffa Boxing 08 on June 28  at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. And, the Saudis may have ended their LIV golf commitment but TKO says they are still all in their boxing, UFC and WWE business.Hear it all on the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Big Fight Weekend
Daniel Dubois Batters Fabio Wardley For WBO Heavyweight Crown + Fight News! | Fight Freaks Unite Recap

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2026 67:08 Transcription Available


It was dramatic and it was brutal and we're ready to recap the WBO heavyweight world title fight won by Daniel Dubois. Plus, we had a featherweight world title fight nixed at the weigh in and controversy continues through the weekend. And, we have fight news too on the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and Newsletter with their takes.They give a full recap of Saturday's Queensberry DAZN PPV in Manchester, EnglandThey start with the Dubois TKO11 Fabio Wardley, as he wins the WBO title. T.J. is adamant that no one cared about the safety of Wardley late in the fight. Dan gives his rebuttal and they also talk the future now for Dubois.They also go over the undercard where:Welterweight Jack Rafferty scored a TKO6 over Ekow EssumanZak Chelli 's stunning TKO10 of David Morrell in a light heavyweight battleAnd gigantic Bakhodir Jalolov TKO7 vs. Agron Smakici but he isn't showing promise and progress enough for Dan at this point. Then it's fight newsFeatherweight contender Ra'eese Aleem badly missed weight on Friday and his mandatory fight with IBF titlist Angelo Leo was canceled though the rest of the Salita Promotions' DAZN card went on Saturday night.Next, SI's Chris Mannix is reporting that Shakur Stevenson on verge of signing with "Zuffa Boxing" a.k.a. Turki Alashikh bankrolling for Ring PPVs.Also, Lightweights Edwin De Los Santos and Jose Valenzuela will meet in a 10-round rematch their shootout that will headline Zuffa Boxing 08 on June 28  at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. And, the Saudis may have ended their LIV golf commitment but TKO says they are still all in their boxing, UFC and WWE business.Hear it all on the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Big Fight Weekend
Fabio Wardley WBO Heavyweight Defense vs. Daniel Dubois + Angelo Leo-Ra'eese Aleem IBF Title Fight and More | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2026 52:24 Transcription Available


We're back with title fight action in England and Atlanta and some fight news, as it's the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack to go over it all.They start with the preview of the Saturday Queensberry DAZN card in Manchester, EnglandFabio Wardley vs. Daniel Dubois, for Wardley's WBO heavyweight title. This has the possibility of being fireworks early and should be quite the atmosphere.Also on the undercard David Morrell vs. Zak Chelli, 10 rounds, light heavyweights, as Morrell gets a fight after his Callum Smith main event was cancelled a couple of weeks ago due to Smtih injury. Then, a preview of Saturday night's Salita Promotions DAZN main event in AtlantaAngelo Leo vs. Ra'eese Aleem, 12 rounds, for Leo's IBF featherweight title. Leo has some big title wins, but Aleem may be poised for an upset, too. And, a quick Preview of Sunday night's Paramount+ Zuffa main event in Las VegasShane Mosley Jr. vs. Serhii Bohachuk, 10 rounds, middleweights. A solid second level, non title fight in the main event. Then, some fight newsWBO welterweight Devin Haney and "Zuffa Boxing" in talks for a multi-fight promotional deal. However, T.J. wants to make clear what's "Zuffa" and what's actually Turki Alashikh paying for and putting a fight on PPV that has nothing to do with "Zuffa Boxing."Next, Junto Nakatani is diagnosed with a broken orbit bone by his left eye. It apparently happened on a right uppercut in round 11 of the loss to Inoue Saturday night. He will be out a while.Also, the official announcement of WBO lightweight titleholder Abdullah Mason's first defense, a Cleveland homecoming vs. Joe Cordina on DAZN July 4 with WBC featherweight titlist Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington's first defense vs. Rene Palacios in the co-feature. An intriguing card on the famous holiday.And, a new date for British rising phenom heavyweight Moses Itauma – moving off a July 25th main event date, so as not to go same day as the Anthony Joshua-Prenga PPV. Dan has more.It's all part of the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Big Fight Weekend
Fabio Wardley WBO Heavyweight Defense vs. Daniel Dubois + Angelo Leo-Ra'eese Aleem IBF Title Fight and More | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2026 52:24 Transcription Available


We're back with title fight action in England and Atlanta and some fight news, as it's the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack to go over it all.They start with the preview of the Saturday Queensberry DAZN card in Manchester, EnglandFabio Wardley vs. Daniel Dubois, for Wardley's WBO heavyweight title. This has the possibility of being fireworks early and should be quite the atmosphere.Also on the undercard David Morrell vs. Zak Chelli, 10 rounds, light heavyweights, as Morrell gets a fight after his Callum Smith main event was cancelled a couple of weeks ago due to Smtih injury. Then, a preview of Saturday night's Salita Promotions DAZN main event in AtlantaAngelo Leo vs. Ra'eese Aleem, 12 rounds, for Leo's IBF featherweight title. Leo has some big title wins, but Aleem may be poised for an upset, too. And, a quick Preview of Sunday night's Paramount+ Zuffa main event in Las VegasShane Mosley Jr. vs. Serhii Bohachuk, 10 rounds, middleweights. A solid second level, non title fight in the main event. Then, some fight newsWBO welterweight Devin Haney and "Zuffa Boxing" in talks for a multi-fight promotional deal. However, T.J. wants to make clear what's "Zuffa" and what's actually Turki Alashikh paying for and putting a fight on PPV that has nothing to do with "Zuffa Boxing."Next, Junto Nakatani is diagnosed with a broken orbit bone by his left eye. It apparently happened on a right uppercut in round 11 of the loss to Inoue Saturday night. He will be out a while.Also, the official announcement of WBO lightweight titleholder Abdullah Mason's first defense, a Cleveland homecoming vs. Joe Cordina on DAZN July 4 with WBC featherweight titlist Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington's first defense vs. Rene Palacios in the co-feature. An intriguing card on the famous holiday.And, a new date for British rising phenom heavyweight Moses Itauma – moving off a July 25th main event date, so as not to go same day as the Anthony Joshua-Prenga PPV. Dan has more.It's all part of the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Big Fight Weekend
David Benavidez Beatdown of Zurdo Ramirez + Naoya Inoue Defeats Nakatani And Fight News! | Fight Freaks Unite Recap

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2026 81:31 Transcription Available


We are back off a GREAT weekend of action with recaps coming from Japan to England to Vegas and we go over it all on the newest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap" podcast.Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack to go over it all.First up is the full recap of the "PBC on Prime" PPV from Vegas that originally aired early Sunday Eastern time on our Big Fight Weekend. YouTube page.The guys discuss David Benavidez's demolition of Zurdo Ramirez in six rounds to knock him out and gain the WBA/WBO unified cruiserweight crowns. Benavidez looks awesome and we dissect how he destroyed Zurdo in his latest fight and importantly, his options next?It was a FANTASTIC undercard with Jaime Munguia winning the WBA super middleweight crown with an impressive 12 round whipping of Armando Resendiz to get his biggest win in several years. And, it makes Munguia a defiinte "player" at 168 lb. again.Pluse, we talk Oscar Duarte's 140 lb. contender win over Angel Fierro, a tremendous 10 rounder with Tito Sanchez and Jorge Chavez bombing each other in the junior middleweight division and an upset for Ishmael Flores scoring in an impressive showing over Isaac Lucero.Then, we pick up with the recap of the Ohashi Promotions card on Saturday in TokyoNaoya Inoue W12 Junto Nakatani to retain the undisputed junior featherweight title in the biggest fight in Japanese history at the sold-out 55,000-seat Tokyo Dome. Inoue quickly becoming one of the all time greatest smaller weight fighters. And, might we see he and Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez down the road?Also, his younger brother,Takuma Inoue W12 over veteran former title holder, Kazuto Ioka and retains the WBC bantamweight title. Theres also discussion of the Matchroom Boxing main event in Wolverhapton, EnglandConah Walker outlslugs Sam Eggington to score a 10th round TKO in a junior middleweight battle that will be considered for "fight of the year" type hype. And, finally, some newsCanelo Alvarez confirmed that he will meet Christian Mbilli for Mbilli's WBC super middleweight title on Sept. 12 in Riyadh in the Turki Alashikh headliner. The guys discuss.And, PBC hosted a presser on Saturday afternoon to officially announce Errol Spence ending a three year hiatius to go to Australia to fight favore son Tim Tszyu in July. T.J. has doubts, even with the announcement, about Spence and the fight.It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast' and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Big Fight Weekend
David Benavidez Beatdown of Zurdo Ramirez + Naoya Inoue Defeats Nakatani And Fight News! | Fight Freaks Unite Recap

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2026 81:31 Transcription Available


We are back off a GREAT weekend of action with recaps coming from Japan to England to Vegas and we go over it all on the newest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap" podcast.Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack to go over it all.First up is the full recap of the "PBC on Prime" PPV from Vegas that originally aired early Sunday Eastern time on our Big Fight Weekend. YouTube page.The guys discuss David Benavidez's demolition of Zurdo Ramirez in six rounds to knock him out and gain the WBA/WBO unified cruiserweight crowns. Benavidez looks awesome and we dissect how he destroyed Zurdo in his latest fight and importantly, his options next?It was a FANTASTIC undercard with Jaime Munguia winning the WBA super middleweight crown with an impressive 12 round whipping of Armando Resendiz to get his biggest win in several years. And, it makes Munguia a defiinte "player" at 168 lb. again.Pluse, we talk Oscar Duarte's 140 lb. contender win over Angel Fierro, a tremendous 10 rounder with Tito Sanchez and Jorge Chavez bombing each other in the junior middleweight division and an upset for Ishmael Flores scoring in an impressive showing over Isaac Lucero.Then, we pick up with the recap of the Ohashi Promotions card on Saturday in TokyoNaoya Inoue W12 Junto Nakatani to retain the undisputed junior featherweight title in the biggest fight in Japanese history at the sold-out 55,000-seat Tokyo Dome. Inoue quickly becoming one of the all time greatest smaller weight fighters. And, might we see he and Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez down the road?Also, his younger brother,Takuma Inoue W12 over veteran former title holder, Kazuto Ioka and retains the WBC bantamweight title. Theres also discussion of the Matchroom Boxing main event in Wolverhapton, EnglandConah Walker outlslugs Sam Eggington to score a 10th round TKO in a junior middleweight battle that will be considered for "fight of the year" type hype. And, finally, some newsCanelo Alvarez confirmed that he will meet Christian Mbilli for Mbilli's WBC super middleweight title on Sept. 12 in Riyadh in the Turki Alashikh headliner. The guys discuss.And, PBC hosted a presser on Saturday afternoon to officially announce Errol Spence ending a three year hiatius to go to Australia to fight favore son Tim Tszyu in July. T.J. has doubts, even with the announcement, about Spence and the fight.It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast' and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Big Fight Weekend
Naoya Inoue Returns In Nakatani Mega Fight + David Benavidez-Zurdo Ramirez Vegas PPV And More! | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2026 75:18 Transcription Available


PreviewWe're back and ready for a massive weekend of title bouts in Japan and Las Vegas and we have fight news, as well on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"This addition orginally aired as a live Youtube show Thursday afternoon on our BFW Page.Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael return went over it all with their insight and analysis.First, they preview the Saturday U.S. a.m. Ohashi Promotions card at Tokyo Dome on DAZNNaoya "The Monster" Inoue vs. Junto Nakatani, for Inoue's undisputed junior featherweight title. Tremendous build up and this will be in front of 50,000+ in the Tokyo Dome too. The guys have takes.Also, Takuma Inoue (Naoya's younger brother) vs. Kazuto Ioka, for Inoue's WBC bantamweight title. Then, the Saturday night PBC Prime Video & DAZN PPV at T-Mobile in Las Vegas  Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez vs. David Benavidez, for Ramirez's WBO/WBA cruiserweight title. Another intriguing bout, as Benavidez moves up looking for a third world title in three divisions. Will Zurdo off shoulder surgery be able to handle him?In the co-feature- Armando Resendiz vs. Jaime Munguia, for Resendiz's WBA super middleweight title. Underrated fight of the weekend? Also, Oscar Duarte vs. Angel Fierro, 10 rounds, junior welterweights and Isaac Lucero vs. Ismael Flores, 8 rounds, junior middleweights on the PPV, too.Then, NewsThe long-awaited heavyweight showdown between former champions Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua is signed, but just not next. Turki Alashikh announced atwo-fight deal with Joshua to fight Kristian Prenga on July 25 (DAZN PPV) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and then Fury. That is November on Netflix, site TBA. The guys discuss the risk Joshua is foolishly taking by having a fight in between.Next, the Xander Zayas-Boots Ennis PPV undercard was announced, and will include two of boxing's elite prospects, junior welterweight Emiliano Vargas and light heavyweight Ben Whittaker in 10-rounders. Dan has more. Also, Top Rank announces it has done a multi-year contract extension Zayas, whom they've promoted since he was 17 years old.Zuffa Boxing announces U.K. debut: former WBO titleholder Chris Billam-Smith vs. Ryan Rozicki on June 6 in Billam-Smith's hometown of Bournemouth, England  Next, WBC junior welterweight titleholder Dalton Smith has suffered an undisclosed training injury that has forced him out of his first defense vs. former titlist Alberto Puello on June 6 (on DAZN) in Smith's hometown of Sheffield, England. Show goes on with the original co-feature moving up to the headliner — a mandatory bout between WBC/WBA flyweight titlist Ricardo Sandoval and WBC interim titlist Galal Yafai. We have the latest.And, updates for the May 9 Fabio Wardley- Daniel Dubois card- American heavyweight Jared Anderson is off with a torn biceps; But, light heavyweight contender David Morrell is added to fight Zak Chelli; two-time Olympic super heavyweight gold medalist Bakhodir Jalolov also added to the show.It's all part of the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe to us on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Big Fight Weekend
Naoya Inoue Returns In Nakatani Mega Fight + David Benavidez-Zurdo Ramirez Vegas PPV And More! | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2026 75:18 Transcription Available


PreviewWe're back and ready for a massive weekend of title bouts in Japan and Las Vegas and we have fight news, as well on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"This addition orginally aired as a live Youtube show Thursday afternoon on our BFW Page.Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael return went over it all with their insight and analysis.First, they preview the Saturday U.S. a.m. Ohashi Promotions card at Tokyo Dome on DAZNNaoya "The Monster" Inoue vs. Junto Nakatani, for Inoue's undisputed junior featherweight title. Tremendous build up and this will be in front of 50,000+ in the Tokyo Dome too. The guys have takes.Also, Takuma Inoue (Naoya's younger brother) vs. Kazuto Ioka, for Inoue's WBC bantamweight title. Then, the Saturday night PBC Prime Video & DAZN PPV at T-Mobile in Las Vegas  Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez vs. David Benavidez, for Ramirez's WBO/WBA cruiserweight title. Another intriguing bout, as Benavidez moves up looking for a third world title in three divisions. Will Zurdo off shoulder surgery be able to handle him?In the co-feature- Armando Resendiz vs. Jaime Munguia, for Resendiz's WBA super middleweight title. Underrated fight of the weekend? Also, Oscar Duarte vs. Angel Fierro, 10 rounds, junior welterweights and Isaac Lucero vs. Ismael Flores, 8 rounds, junior middleweights on the PPV, too.Then, NewsThe long-awaited heavyweight showdown between former champions Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua is signed, but just not next. Turki Alashikh announced atwo-fight deal with Joshua to fight Kristian Prenga on July 25 (DAZN PPV) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and then Fury. That is November on Netflix, site TBA. The guys discuss the risk Joshua is foolishly taking by having a fight in between.Next, the Xander Zayas-Boots Ennis PPV undercard was announced, and will include two of boxing's elite prospects, junior welterweight Emiliano Vargas and light heavyweight Ben Whittaker in 10-rounders. Dan has more. Also, Top Rank announces it has done a multi-year contract extension Zayas, whom they've promoted since he was 17 years old.Zuffa Boxing announces U.K. debut: former WBO titleholder Chris Billam-Smith vs. Ryan Rozicki on June 6 in Billam-Smith's hometown of Bournemouth, England  Next, WBC junior welterweight titleholder Dalton Smith has suffered an undisclosed training injury that has forced him out of his first defense vs. former titlist Alberto Puello on June 6 (on DAZN) in Smith's hometown of Sheffield, England. Show goes on with the original co-feature moving up to the headliner — a mandatory bout between WBC/WBA flyweight titlist Ricardo Sandoval and WBC interim titlist Galal Yafai. We have the latest.And, updates for the May 9 Fabio Wardley- Daniel Dubois card- American heavyweight Jared Anderson is off with a torn biceps; But, light heavyweight contender David Morrell is added to fight Zak Chelli; two-time Olympic super heavyweight gold medalist Bakhodir Jalolov also added to the show.It's all part of the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe to us on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Big Fight Weekend
Zurdo Ramirez Conversation with Dan Rafael 4 26 26 | Fight Freas Unite Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2026 14:05 Transcription Available


Coming up this Saturday night in Las Vegas it's a crusierweight unified title fight on pay per view as Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez battles David Benavidez.As fight week gets rolling, hear from Zurdo one on one with our insider Dan Rafael. They discuss Zurdo coming off shoulder surgery late last year. And, they get on to the challenge of fighting the light heavyweight champ Benavidez in one of the toughest fights of his career. Plus, what abou the Mexico vs. Mexico matchup on "Cinco de May Weekend," as well?It's all on this special "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe to this feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Big Fight Weekend
Zurdo Ramirez Conversation with Dan Rafael 4 26 26 | Fight Freas Unite Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2026 14:05 Transcription Available


Coming up this Saturday night in Las Vegas it's a crusierweight unified title fight on pay per view as Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez battles David Benavidez.As fight week gets rolling, hear from Zurdo one on one with our insider Dan Rafael. They discuss Zurdo coming off shoulder surgery late last year. And, they get on to the challenge of fighting the light heavyweight champ Benavidez in one of the toughest fights of his career. Plus, what abou the Mexico vs. Mexico matchup on "Cinco de May Weekend," as well?It's all on this special "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe to this feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Big Fight Weekend
Jarrell Miller Headlines In Vegas, Okolie PED Positive + Ali Act Discussed On Capitol Hill Too! | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2026 55:17 Transcription Available


It's an extremely light weekend in the ring, but there's plenty to discuss outside of it and we are ready to do so on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael give you all the insight.They start with the preview of Saturday's Matchroom Boxing DAZN main event in Las VegasJarrell "Big Baby" Miller vs. Lenier Pero, WBA heavyweight eliminator. Will we see fireworks in the most significant fight of the weekend? The winner obviously moves into WBA contention, as well. Then, some news:Heavyweight Lawrence Okolie, who was scheduled to face Tony Yoka in the main event of a Queensberry Promotions card on DAZN on Saturday in Yoka's hometown of Paris, has tested positive for a banned substance and the card has been canceled. We have the latest on it all.Then, Oscar De La Hoya, Nico Ali Walsh and Nick Khan all testified in front of a U.S. Senate committee on the Ali Revival Act on Wednesday. T.J. and Dan have thoughts on what was said at the hearing and the next steps in the movement by TKO/Zuffa Boxing to get this bill made into law later this Summer.Also, Richardson Hitchins, who signed with Zuffa last week vacates the IBF junior welterweight title on Monday – a day before a purse bid was scheduled for his mandatory vs. Lindolfo Delgado, and the IBF on Tuesday ordered Delgado-Teofimo Lopez to meet for the vacant belt.Then, Caoimhin Agyarko did not take the IBF junior middleweight final title eliminator against former titlist Bakhram Murtazaliev. So, Murtazaliev was ordered to face Brandon Adams and both of them told the IBF in writing they're in and will begin negotiations.And, WBC junior welterweight titlist Dalton Smith has signed a “long-term” contact extension with Matchroom Boxing, the company announced on Wednesday. And, we have more on his June title defense.It's all on the "Big Fig Weekend Preview Podcast!" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

Big Fight Weekend
Jarrell Miller Headlines In Vegas, Okolie PED Positive + Ali Act Discussed On Capitol Hill Too! | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2026 55:17 Transcription Available


It's an extremely light weekend in the ring, but there's plenty to discuss outside of it and we are ready to do so on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives and insider Dan Rafael give you all the insight.They start with the preview of Saturday's Matchroom Boxing DAZN main event in Las VegasJarrell "Big Baby" Miller vs. Lenier Pero, WBA heavyweight eliminator. Will we see fireworks in the most significant fight of the weekend? The winner obviously moves into WBA contention, as well. Then, some news:Heavyweight Lawrence Okolie, who was scheduled to face Tony Yoka in the main event of a Queensberry Promotions card on DAZN on Saturday in Yoka's hometown of Paris, has tested positive for a banned substance and the card has been canceled. We have the latest on it all.Then, Oscar De La Hoya, Nico Ali Walsh and Nick Khan all testified in front of a U.S. Senate committee on the Ali Revival Act on Wednesday. T.J. and Dan have thoughts on what was said at the hearing and the next steps in the movement by TKO/Zuffa Boxing to get this bill made into law later this Summer.Also, Richardson Hitchins, who signed with Zuffa last week vacates the IBF junior welterweight title on Monday – a day before a purse bid was scheduled for his mandatory vs. Lindolfo Delgado, and the IBF on Tuesday ordered Delgado-Teofimo Lopez to meet for the vacant belt.Then, Caoimhin Agyarko did not take the IBF junior middleweight final title eliminator against former titlist Bakhram Murtazaliev. So, Murtazaliev was ordered to face Brandon Adams and both of them told the IBF in writing they're in and will begin negotiations.And, WBC junior welterweight titlist Dalton Smith has signed a “long-term” contact extension with Matchroom Boxing, the company announced on Wednesday. And, we have more on his June title defense.It's all on the "Big Fig Weekend Preview Podcast!" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

Big Fight Weekend
David Benavidez Conversation With Dan Rafael 4 21 26 | Fight Freaks Unite Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2026 13:15 Transcription Available


WBC light heavyweight champion David Benavidez moves up to cruiserweight to challenge WBO/WBA champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez on May 2nd at T-Mobile Arena in the "Cinco de Mayo" main event on "PBC on Prime" PPV and DAZN PPV.But, before we get to fight week David joins our insider Dan Rafael with more on why he's choosing to move up? Does he legitimately believe that he will be able to move back down to light heavyweight to potentiallly fight an undisputed bout with Russian Dmitry Bivol?He's always candid and willing to answer the questions and we have more with David Benavidez on this "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast" conversation. And make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

Big Fight Weekend
David Benavidez Conversation With Dan Rafael 4 21 26 | Fight Freaks Unite Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2026 13:15 Transcription Available


WBC light heavyweight champion David Benavidez moves up to cruiserweight to challenge WBO/WBA champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez on May 2nd at T-Mobile Arena in the "Cinco de Mayo" main event on "PBC on Prime" PPV and DAZN PPV.But, before we get to fight week David joins our insider Dan Rafael with more on why he's choosing to move up? Does he legitimately believe that he will be able to move back down to light heavyweight to potentiallly fight an undisputed bout with Russian Dmitry Bivol?He's always candid and willing to answer the questions and we have more with David Benavidez on this "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast" conversation. And make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

Big Fight Weekend
Alycia Baumgardner Wins But Scary Shadasia Green TKO Loss + David Benavidez Joins Us! | Fight Freaks Unite Recap

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2026 56:33 Transcription Available


It was an intriguing weekend in New York for Friday.and then, Liverpool, England on Saturday and we're ready to go over it all and we have a multi-division world champ with us as a guest all on the latest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast!'Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and Newsletter to give their takes.First, a recap of the Friday MVP/ESPN title bouts in New YorkJunior lightweight Alycia Baumgardner W10 Bo Mi Re Shin, retains WBO/IBF/WBA women's title. An expected win, now what's next for Baumgardner? Then, a shocker in the co-feature, as super middleweight Lani Daniels TKO9 Shadasia Green, wins WBO/IBF women's title. Green was seriously hurt and stretchered from the ring to the ambulance and hospital. We have the latest on her.  Next, a recap Saturday Matchroom Boxing DAZN main event in Liverpool, EnglandLight heavyweights Ben Whittaker KO1 Braian Suarez. This was a joke and is Whitaker going to fight someone soon? Then, Dan's interview with David Benavidez The WBC light heavyweight champion Benavidez moves up to cruiserweight to challenge WBO/WBA champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez on May 2 at T-Mobile Arena in the Cinco de Mayo main event on PBC on Prime PPV and DAZN PPV. Next, some newsConor Benn signs a long-term deal with Zuffa Boxing coming the end of his one-fight deal to fight Regis Prograis. Will we still get the WBC welterweight title fight with Ryan Garcia or does this move complicate it?And, three-belt junior bantamweight champion Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez has re-signed with Matchroom Boxing on a long-term deal tht will begin with him moving up to bantamweight to challenge WBA titlist Antonio Vargas on June 13 on DAZN in Glendale, Arizona. We love Bam's activity and exciting style of fighting.Next, drug cartel kingpin Daniel Kinahan, who was deeply involved in boxing thru shuttered MTK Management and wanted for years by Irish authorities and the US government, finally arrested in Dubai. We have the latest.And, Dan remembers Hall of Famer Miguel Canto, one of the great flyweight champions of all time, who died on Thursday. He was 77.It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap" and make sure to follow/subcribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Big Fight Weekend
Alycia Baumgardner Wins But Scary Shadasia Green TKO Loss + David Benavidez Joins Us! | Fight Freaks Unite Recap

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2026 56:33 Transcription Available


It was an intriguing weekend in New York for Friday.and then, Liverpool, England on Saturday and we're ready to go over it all and we have a multi-division world champ with us as a guest all on the latest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast!'Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and Newsletter to give their takes.First, a recap of the Friday MVP/ESPN title bouts in New YorkJunior lightweight Alycia Baumgardner W10 Bo Mi Re Shin, retains WBO/IBF/WBA women's title. An expected win, now what's next for Baumgardner? Then, a shocker in the co-feature, as super middleweight Lani Daniels TKO9 Shadasia Green, wins WBO/IBF women's title. Green was seriously hurt and stretchered from the ring to the ambulance and hospital. We have the latest on her.  Next, a recap Saturday Matchroom Boxing DAZN main event in Liverpool, EnglandLight heavyweights Ben Whittaker KO1 Braian Suarez. This was a joke and is Whitaker going to fight someone soon? Then, Dan's interview with David Benavidez The WBC light heavyweight champion Benavidez moves up to cruiserweight to challenge WBO/WBA champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez on May 2 at T-Mobile Arena in the Cinco de Mayo main event on PBC on Prime PPV and DAZN PPV. Next, some newsConor Benn signs a long-term deal with Zuffa Boxing coming the end of his one-fight deal to fight Regis Prograis. Will we still get the WBC welterweight title fight with Ryan Garcia or does this move complicate it?And, three-belt junior bantamweight champion Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez has re-signed with Matchroom Boxing on a long-term deal tht will begin with him moving up to bantamweight to challenge WBA titlist Antonio Vargas on June 13 on DAZN in Glendale, Arizona. We love Bam's activity and exciting style of fighting.Next, drug cartel kingpin Daniel Kinahan, who was deeply involved in boxing thru shuttered MTK Management and wanted for years by Irish authorities and the US government, finally arrested in Dubai. We have the latest.And, Dan remembers Hall of Famer Miguel Canto, one of the great flyweight champions of all time, who died on Thursday. He was 77.It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap" and make sure to follow/subcribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Big Fight Weekend
Alycia Baumgardner Defends Friday + Ryan Garcia-Conor Benn On? And Other Fight News | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2026 56:22 Transcription Available


It is a lighter weekend of action, but there are women's world title fights in NY and light heavyweight contender Ben Whitaker is back in action in Britain on Saturday. And, we're ready to preview it all and have a bunch of fight news on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael to go over it all.First, they preview the Friday night MVP / ESPN card in NYAlycia Baumgardner vs. Bo Mi Re Shin, 12 rounds, for Baumgardner's WBO/IBF/WBA women's junior lightweight title. Baumgardner is heavily favored and looking ahead to a possible showdown with the likes of WBC lightweight champ Caroline Dubois or maybe a rematch with junior middleweight champ Mikaela Mayer.Also, Shadasia Green vs. Lani Daniels, 10 rounds, for Green's WBO/IBF women's super middleweight title. Green has bigger aspirations and should win in this bout.Then, Saturday's Matchroom Boxing DAZN main event in Liverpool, EnglandBen Whittaker vs. Braian Suarez, 10 rounds, light heavyweights. Whitaker has potential, but has often been too much clowning and not enough boxing. We'll see what he does as the big favorite on this British show. Then, some NewsTalks are going for WBC welterweight titlist Ryan Garcia vs. Conor Benn for Aug. 15 in Las Vegas. Garcia says it's done, but who Eddie Hearn told a media scrum on Tuesday that he is negotiating a two-fight deal for Anthony Joshua with Turki for a July fight and then Fury in November.  Joshua to take risk fighting someone before Fury? What are WE DOING HERE?! Also, T.J. has insight on why the recent news that the Saudi PIF Fund is going to stop backing the LIV Golf Tour, is pertinent as it relates to Turki Alashikh and whether his unlimited supply of money to make massive fight cards without regard to even "breaking even" will continue much longer?Next, O'Shaquie Foster will defend the WBC junior lightweight title vs. former WBA featherweight titlist Raymond Ford at the Fertitta Center (Univiersity of Houston about 9k capacity for boxing) in Houston, Texas on May 30 on DAZN, Matchroom announced on Thursday. We talk more about the bout.Also, Top Rank's first DAZN event is official for May 16 at Scope Arena in Norfolk, Viriginia, with former lightweight titlist and current junior welterweight Keyshawn Davis at home in a rematch with Nahir Albright in the main event. And, former welterweight titlist Brian Norman vs. Josh Wagner in the 10-round co-feature. Dan has thoughts on both.Then, WBC/WBA flyweight titlist Ricardo Sandoval and WBC interim titlist Galal Yafai will meet in a mandatory bout on the undercard of WBC junior welterweight titlist Dalton Smith's mandatory versus former titlist Alberto Puello June 6 in Sheffield, England.Next, with Brandon Adams withdrawing on the eve of last Saturday's IBF 154 final eliminator vs. Caoimhin Agyarko due to a health issue, the IBF has ordered Agyarko vs. former titlist Bakhram Murtazaliev for the mandatory spot. Murtazaliev notified the IBF he'll participate. Agyarko has until Monday to accept a position in the fight.And, finally, former WBO cruiserweight titlist Chris Billam-Smith has signed “a multi-fight deal” with Zuffa Boxing, the company announced this week. Obvious future opponent for Opetaia.It's all part of the "Big Fight Weekend Preview" Podcast and make sure to follow/subscribe to our feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.

Big Fight Weekend
Marvin Hagler-Thomas Hearns First Round Retro Show! | Fight Freaks Unite Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2026 21:32 Transcription Available


It's arguably the greatest first round, if not greatest round period, in boxing history, as April 15th, 1985 Marvelous Marvin Hagler and Thomas "Hit Man" Hearns unleahed three incredible minutes of pure violence on each other.And now, we look back on the magnitude of that opening round on a special "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael and these segments you'll hear are from a full/longer conversation that they had with legendary HBO Sports play by play announcer Barry Tompkins and fellow legendary analyst Al Bernstein, who did the live closed circuit broadcast that night.While those guys were on seperate calls of the fight, they have great memories about the build up and the EPIC opening round.Re-live the nostalgia of one of the great nights in boxing history that was summed up, spontaneously by Tomkins with "This is still the first round!" as they recount it with us!It's part of our coverage on this podcast feed and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

Big Fight Weekend
Tyson Fury Wins In His Return And Conor Benn Downs Prograis + Floyd Mayweather In Trouble With IRS | Fight Freaks Unite Recap

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2026 60:52 Transcription Available


It was another busy fight weekend primarily with the Ring/Netflix show in London but in other parts of the globe, as well. And, we 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 with their takes and insight.First up is the recap of the Saturday Ring magazine Netflix card in LondonHeavyweight Tyson Fury W12 Arslanbek Makhmudov – Fury gets the expected win in his first fight in almost a year and a half. But, more interesting was the back and forth with with Anthony Joshua afterwards and will they fight next/soon?Then, a recap of the junior middleweight co-feature Conor Benn decisions Regis Prograis over 10 rounds. Benn had some adversity with cuts and Prograis landing some on him too. But, he wins easily, so now, what's next at welterweight?Also, Heavyweight Richard Riakporhe TKO5 Jeamie “TKV” Tshikeva, and wins British title Heavyweight.Plus, Justis Huni W10 Frazer Clarke. A good win, but a legal mess with Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Boxing, too.Then, a Recap of the Saturday Teiken Boxing main event in TokyoBantamweight Tenshin Nasukawa TKO9 Juan Francisco Estrada, WBC final eliminator. Nasukawa wins and is it time for Estrada to hang'em up? And, a recap of Thursday Eye of the Tiger DAZN main event in MontrealSuper middleweight Osleys Iglesias TKO8 Pavel Silyagin, wins vacant IBF title. Big Dan is high on Iglesias and his potential. Next, some newsJunior middleweight contender Brandon Adams collapsed on Friday, was taken to the hospital, and his IBF title elimination fight against unbeaten Caoimhin Agyarko on Saturday was canceled. We have the latest on Adams.Next, the IRS has filed a $7.3 million lien against Floyd Mayweather for unpaid taxes in the years 2018 and 2023. Obviously, not good for Mayweather at this point.Future hall of famer Canelo Alvarez, while recovering from elbow surgery that will keep him out until September, has enrolled in college at San Diego University for Integrative Studies, he announced on Instagram. Canelo taking classes?! We have more.It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to rate and review us and follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Big Fight Weekend
Tyson Fury And Conor Benn Return On Ring/Netflix Show + Fight News! | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2026 52:57 Transcription Available


We are back and ready to go with a large show involving arguably the two biggest names in British boxing on the same show + some world title fights being made and more on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives returns with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and Newsletter to to over it all.They start with the preview of the Saturday Ring magazine/Netflix card at Tottemham Hotspur Stadium in LondonTyson Fury returns vs. Arslanbek Makhmudov, 12 rounds, heavyweights. What does "The Gypsy King" really have left? Can Makhmudov test him at all? Then, the co-feature, Conor Benn battles Regis Prograis, 10 rounds, junior middleweights. Benn leaves Matchroom Boxing and this fight is leading to bigger things later in 2026. And two heavyweights fights- Jeamie “TKV” Tshikeva vs. Richard Riakporhe, 12 rounds, for Tshikeva's British heavyweight title and Justis Huni vs. Frazer Clarke, 10 rounds, heavyweights  Next a preview of the DMG PPV main event Saturday at Cosmoplotan of Las VegasBrandon Adams meets Caoimhin Agyarko, 12 rounds, IBF junior middleweight eliminator. Is there much here? Dan gives his take.j And, also a preview of Teiken Promotions Japan card Saturday early morning US time on DAZNFuture hall of famer Juan Francisco Estrada vs. Tenshin Nasukawa, 12 rounds, WBC bantamweight final eliminator Then, some newsAbdullah Mason will make his first WBO lightweight title defense against former junior lightweight titleholder Joe Cordina in the main event of a Top Rank card on July 4 on DAZN in Mason's hometown of Cleveland, per sourcesIt will headline the 1st event that will also air on TNT as part of a deal between DAZN and TNT announced on Wednesday. We have more details.IBF 140 lb. titlist Richardson Hitchins and super middleweight contender Edgar Berlanga sign with Zuffa Boxing, as does heavyweight Otto Wallin. Will Hitchins in particular make his mandatory defense against Lindolfo Delgado or not on a Zuffa card?Next, we have Injury updates on Deontay Wilder and Tim Tszyu following their Saturday bouts from Dan. And also, WBO interim light heavyweight titlist Callum Smith has suffered an injury and his mandatory defense against David Morrell scheduled to headline a Matchroom Boxing card on April 18 (DAZN) at M&S Bank Arena in Smith's hometown of Liverpool, England, is off. The card will go forward with Ben Whittaker's 10-rounder against Braian Suarez, the original co-feature, will now headline. And, O'Shaquie Foster will defend the WBC junior lightweight title against Raymond Ford in the main event of a Matchroom Boxing card on May 30 (DAZN) in the Houston area. While, unified women's featherweight champion Amanda Serrano will defend against Cheyenne Hanson in the co-feature of MVPW-03 headlined by the rematch between WBA women's lightweight titlist Stephanie Hand and Holly Holm also on May 30 (ESPN, ESPN+, 9 p.m. ET) at El Paso County Coliseum in Han's hometown of El Paso, Texas, Most Valuable Promotions announced along with additional undercard fights.It's all on this edition of the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to rate and review us on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Big Fight Weekend
Deontay Wilder Meets Derek Chisora, Tim Tszyu Returns In Australia And Fight News | BFW Preview 4 2 26

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2026 53:32 Transcription Available


We are back in a new month with more intriguing action from England to Australia and we're ready to preview it and go over some fight news and more on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and newsletter go over it all.They start with the preview of Saturday's MF Pro/DAZN card at London's O2 ArenaDeontay Wilder vs. Derek Chisora, 12 rounds, heavyweights. Do either of them have anything left. Will we get a big brawl from these older veterans that cannot get out of the way? There are takes.On the undercard Poland's Mateusz Masternak vs. Viddal Riley, 12 rounds, IBF cruiserweight eliminator and for Masternak's European title. Plus, British star Denzel Bentley vs. Endry Saavedra, 12 rounds, for vacant WBO interim middleweight title.Next, preview Saturday night's No Limit PBC on Prime Video in Wollongong, AustraliaTim Tszyu vs. Denis Nurja, 10 rounds, middleweights. Tszyu spoke with Dan earlier in the week and now risks a future fight with Errol Spence that will pay him much more wih this one. Preview MVP's Sunday ESPN+ card in LononCaroline Dubois vs. Terri Harper, 10 rounds, WBC/WBO women's lightweight unification. Should be a highly entertaining bout with Dubois on the rise.   NewsXander Zayas set to defend unified 154 titles against Jaron 'Boots' Ennis on June 27 at Brooklyn's Barclays Center on DAZN PPV, it was announced Monday. This has a lot of intrigue.Next, the negotiations for a May 30th unification fight between WBO welterweight titlist Devin Haney and WBA titleholder Rolando Romero have fallen through.... SHOCKER, unless it's not. Now, what for Haney?Also, rising heavyweight star Moses Itauma is supposed to be back in action in July in England but after that Frank Warren told Dan that the plan is to bring him to fight in the U.S. in September. Let's hear it for actvitiy!  And, the IBA looking to put on Dmitry Bivol-Artur Beterbiev III, but that will be late this year at the earliest. They discuss.And, per Dan's sources, welterweight contenders Shakhram Giyasov and Jack Catterall have reached an agreement to meet for the vacant WBA “regular” welterweight title on the undercard of lineal and unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk's defense against Rico Verhoeven on May 23 (DAZN PPV) at the Pyramids in Giza, Egypt.We go over it all on the "Big Fight Weekend Preview" and make sure to follow/subscribe to this feed on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!

Big Fight Weekend
Tim Tszyu Conversation With Dan Rafael 3 31 26

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2026 15:57 Transcription Available


One of the premier fighters at 154 lb., Tim Tszyu, is returning to the ring this weekend, but first he's with our insider Dan Rafael on this special "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast!"Tszyu, who faces unbeaten Denis Nurja on Prime Video on April 4th U.S. time (April 5th in Tszyu's home country of Australia) looks to set up a likely summer fight against Errol Spence. He and Dan discussed plenty: his stoppage loss to Sebastian Fundora in their rematch last July; why, after having fought in December, he is risking the Spence fight with a tune-up now? Plus, what are his thoughts on working with new trainer Pedro Diaz in Miami and ultimately, his thoughts on the potential Spence fight and more.It's all part of our "Fight Freaks Unite Podcast" on this feed and make sure to follow/subscirbe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Big Fight Weekend
Sebastian Fundora Clubs Thurman And Moses Itauma Devastates Franklin + Fight News | Fight Freaks Unite Recap

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2026 63:27 Transcription Available


We're back off a weekend that has seen a championship thumping in Vegas and a British heavyweight rising star scores another big KO. And, we're ready to break it all down on the newest "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Show!"Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael of his Fight Freaks Unite Substack and Newsletter give their insight and analysis.First a recap of Saturday's PBC on Prime Video PPVJunior middleweight Sebastian Fundora TKO6 Keith Thurman, retains WBC title. It was a beatiing that Keith Thurman didn't agree with, but everyone else thought was correct. We discuss. In the co-featurejunior middleweight Yoenis Tellez W10 Brian Mendoza. Tellez could be next for Fundora? Pluls, more on middleweight Yoenli Hernandez TKO4 Terrell Gausha and heavyweight Gurgen Hovhannisyan TKO5 Cesar Navarro. Next a recap Saturday's Queensberry DAZN main event in Manchester, England (DAZN)Heavyweight Moses Itauma continues a roll with a KO5 of veteran of Jermaine Franklin. We discuss his rise and does he get a title shot soon?Then, some newsManny Pacquiao-Ruslan Provodnikov exhibition for April 18th postponed and now, Floyd Mayweather claims the fight he signed to rematch Manny won't be an official fight?! And, he says it might not be at the Sphere!!? What are we doing here?!Per Dan's reporting, the fight between lineal and unified light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol and IBF mandatory challenger Michael Eifert will top an RCC Promotions card in Ekaterinburg, Russia, in May, and won't be on the Oleksandr Usyk card in Egypt.  And, the guys spend some time contemplating the 60th anniversary of Bob Arum promoting his first fight on March 29th, 1966 and he's still going strong now, at 94 years old! It's all part of the "Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.! 

Big Fight Weekend
Sebastian Fundora Meets Keith Thurman + Moses Itauma Returns And Tim Tszyu Convo! | BFW Preview Podcast

Big Fight Weekend

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2026 84:40 Transcription Available


We're back wtih a championship PPV showdown in Las Vegas, a heavyweight rising star in Manchester, England and a former world champion joins us in conversation on the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast!"Host T.J. Rives is back with insider Dan Rafael to go over it all.First they talk the Saturday "PBC on Prime PPV" in Las VegasSebastian Fundora vs. Keith Thurman, 12 rounds, for Fundora's WBC junior middleweight title. Fundora with the massive height and reach, but the veteran Thurman could pose a threat. On the undercard Yoenis Tellez vs. Brian Mendoza, 10 rounds, junior middleweights and Yoenli Hernandez vs. Terrell Gausha, 10 rounds, middleweights. Plus, we have big Gurgen Hovhannisyan vs. Cesar Navarro, 10 rounds, heavyweights  Then, Saturday's Queensberry main event on DAZN in ManchesterUnbeaten Moses Itauma vs. Jermaine Franklin, 10 rounds, heavyweights. Dan is intrigued as this is the first "real guy" Itauma is in with in his 2026 debut. Then it's Tim Tszyu in an interview with DanTszyu fights Denis Nurja in a 10-rounder at 157 live on Prime Video on April 4 US prime time (April 5 in Wollongong, Australia) looking to set up planned summer Errol Spnece Jr. fight. Hear them discuss why Tszyu wants to risk the bigger payday fighting this bout in his homeland? Next, Some NEWSGolden Boy Promotions and DAZN announce a new multi-year rights deal after a very long negotiation. Dan's sources tell him it's a 2-year deal with option language for an extension. They discuss what it could mean, pricewise, for fans paying for DAZN, too.Some good news- Isis Sio, 19-year-old the novice female junior flyweight who was  brutally knocked out on Saturday night, is out of a medically induced coma and has been almost miraculously been released from the hospital just days later.On Tuesday, the U.S. House in voice vote (massively bipartisan) passed the Zuffa Boxing-based "Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act." Soon a Senate vote will come before it would go the president's desk to be signed into law. Oscar De La Hoya says he will be in Washington speaking with Senators hoping to stop it. We have more.Also, the IBF announced it has formally stripped Jai Opetaia of its cruiserweight title 2 weeks after it withdrew sanction of his March 8 bout vs. Brandon Glanton on the Zuffa Boxing card. This story is far from over, however.IBF featherweight titleholder Angelo Leo will take on mandatory challenger Ra'eese Aleem on May 9 (DAZN) on a Salita Promotions card at Gateway Center Arena in Atlanta. We have the details.And, off his win last Saturday, WBC middleweight titleholder Carlos Adames indicated on social media that he is moving up to super middleweight following his rout of Austin Williams last Saturday. It's all part of the "Big Fight Weekend Preview Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple/Spreaker/Spotify, etc.!