Caleb Truax (left), Courtesy SnapLocally.com

Minnesota’s own version of last man standing has been going strong over the last year and “Golden” Caleb Truax isn’t going to miss his chance at entering the mix. The last 13 months have been filled with the best MN fighters going after each other in an effort to separate from the rest. Well, April 23 will be the next installment of  BIG MN vs MN fights. “Golden” Caleb Truax(14,0) will be taking on one of Minnesota’s most dangerous punchers in Phil “The Drill” Williams (11,3). Truax took some time to answer a few questions about his fight with The Drill as well as some other topics below.

 
M….I know you had to take a little time away from boxing because of the cut you suffered in your last fight in November, how are you feeling?

 
Truax….I feel great! I’ve had plenty of time to prepare for this fight and have had no problems with my eye. I’m ready to get busy!

 
 
M….Your fight with Kerry Hope was great! What are your thoughts on that fight now?

Truax….I think it was a great learning experience for me. I had to push myself in a hard 10rd fight with a good opponent.

 
M….I have become accustom to seeing your name on various magazines and websites, how does it feel to be getting some out of state attention?

Truax….I don’t pay too much attention to all that stuff. It obviously helps with exposure but you know what they say, don’t read your own headlines.

 
M….Last I heard, your fight with Phil Williams will be at 164lbs max, what weight do you see your future at in boxing?

Truax….Middleweight

 
M….There are a few fighters here in Minnesota who have a large vocal following. You are one of those guys, what do you think has helped you get such great fans?

Truax….Well alot of those people you hear screaming at my fights aren’t my fans, they’re my friends I grew up with who still support me today. As far as my fans go I think I’m just a people person. I’m very approachable and treat people with respect and I get that respect and support in return.

 
M….I have heard rumbles from fans who would like to see you fight Matt Vanda. I know you guys not only share a gym, but also have the same trainer, is this a fight that just cant happen?

 
Truax….Matt is a great dude and has helped me tremendously with my career, that being said, I think its a fight that could happen soon. We’ve talked about it with one another and both agree that if it makes $$$, it makes sense.

 
M….Your fight with The Drill was on many fans wish lists, were you involved in making it or were you told he was the man you would be fighting?

Truax….I wanted a big in-state fight and Kost and Kolle didn’t work out and we knew Phil would step up so Tony G put it together.

M….What are your thoughts on Phil Williams? Will he be the biggest puncher you have been in with to date?

Truax….I have nothing but respect for Phil because thats all he has shown me. I know his power is nothing to under estimate and I guess we’ll see on the 23rd if he’s the most powerful I’ve been in with.

 
M….What sort of fight are you expecting April 23?

Truax….I expect to control the fight. This is my 1st fight fight in a while in which I know exactly what to expect coming in. No opponent changes, plenty of film to watch. I’ve prepared well and am ready for Phil.

 
 
M….Do you have your sites set on any road fights in the near future?

Truax….Right now we are building up steam here in MN and trying to grow my fan base so I don’ mind if I have more fights here at home. I definitely would like to get back on the road in the near future though.

 
M….How would you describe your relationship with your trainer Ron Lyke?

Truax…..(Ron-manager, Tom Halstad-trainer, Jim Maurine-cutman)

I have a tight relationship with my entire team. I have been with everyone I am with today since day 1. I think its rare in boxing that a fighter trusts and is friends with his entire team. Ron is my manager and I trust him to lead my career in the right direction as he has so far. Tom Halstad is my trainer and I feel the same way about him. Along with my cutman/punching bag Jim Maurine and promoter Tony G, we are all ready to take this thing to the next level.

 
M…. Where do you expect to see yourself a year from now in your boxing career?

Truax….Unbeaten and becoming a household name in MN sports.

M…. Thanks for giving us some time, is there anything you would like to add?

Truax….Thank you for your time and to all my friends and fans: thank you and come check me out April, 23 at the Saint Paul Armory. It will be a great fight!

“Golden” Caleb Truax vs Phil “The Drill” Williams, Friday, April 23, St. Paul Armory.

Here are some prior interviews we have had with Caleb Truax.

4-1-09 Caleb Truax

9-19-09 Caleb Truax

Joey Abell, Courtesy SnapLocally.com

Joey “Minnesota Ice” Abell (25,4) is set to face Josh Gutcher (18,11) April 23 at the St. Paul Armory as part of the Truax/Williams show. Minnesota Ice also has a date at Nelson Mandela Memorial Stadium in Kampala Uganda May 29. Coming off the controversy from his last fight December 4, Ice is looking to get back into the ring in a big way. Minnesota’s heaviest hitter took some time to answer a few questions from The League below.

M….Its now been more than 4 months since your fight with Butler, do you have any final thoughts from that night?

Joey Abell

Abell….

No not really, I have put that behind me. I try and learn from my mistakes but a lot of what happens in the ring is instinct, adrenalin, and or rage. Thats why your taught to follow the ref’s instructions.

 
M….Do you see a rematch with Butler in your future?

Abell….I don’t think so. There hasn’t been any interest from either camp since the fight and a bit of hostility still exist. I would certainly fight Butler again if the terms were right.

 
M…. Has it been difficult waiting and watching as the various changes  have happened with your upcoming fight in Africa?

Abell….It has been difficult both mentally and physically. I have been training hard for months now and thats very tough on the body. You should only train hard for 4 weeks before a fight, so as the date keeps getting pushed back I have to continue to train. Hopefully we have it right now and I am ready for the next two fights.

M….At first it sounded as though you may face Francois Botha, do you think you may get a shot at the winner of Botha/Holyfield?

Abell…. That depends on what happens tonight in Las Vegas. If its a snoozer probably not, but it could end up very exciting and a match with Botha in Africa (should he win) might be a huge draw because he is from South Africa and he has a huge following.

 
M….Tony Grygelko informed us that your contracts have been signed for a fight May 29 in Africa, will you still be fighting Al Cole? If so, how much motivation will be gained from your first fight with him?

Abell….The May 29th date should be good. We just signed the contract and I have received some up front money. Money is usually a good indicator if the fight is on. Al Cole is still the opponent and I am extremely motivated to fight him again. He was a bit cocky after the last fight and I look forward to fighting 10 three minute rounds if it lasts that long.

 
M…. How close do you think you are to getting at some of the top guys in the heavyweight division?

Abell….Our plan is move into that category after four more fights following Africa. We expect to start challenging in the top twenty in less than a year.

 
M….Given the madness of December 4 and all that happened, how eager are you to get back to the business of boxing on April 23?

Abell….I am very anxious, its been too long for me. I love boxing, the crowds, and of course the money.

 
M….Do you know much about your opponent?

Abell….Just from clips that are available on the internet. He has fought some quality opponents and I am definitely not taking him lightly. I have learned that lesson.

M….You are one of the fighters frequently spotted at boxing events here in Minnesota, are there any MN guys you are particularly interested in following?

Abell…. I am a huge boxing fan and especially like to watch Minnesota Boxers. Its kind of a club here because its still in its early stages of development. Caleb is of course fun to watch because we train at the same facility. It has been a bit frustrating though trying to get good matches and crowds in Minnesota. I am not sure if its because we don’t really have experienced and established promoters or the fan base just isn’t here. I suspect its the former.

M….How busy of a year do you see for yourself?

Abell….We are planning on 3 or more fights after the Africa fight. Maybe 1 of those will be overseas but nothing is firm yet.

 
M…. Where do you hope to be a year from now in boxing?

Abell….Well assuming I keep winning, I expect to be challenging the top twenty in the heavyweight division. I have no interest in being a club fighter so I will keep looking toward the top and see how far I can go.

 
M….I have always been hugely impressed with your power, but in a recent interview with Tony Grygelko, he said your speed is very hard to match in a big man. What would you describe as your greatest strengths in the ring?

Abell…. I think my biggest asset as a heavyweight fighter is my athleticism, being able to move in the ring gives me a great advantage over the slower heavyweights.

Tony Grygelko (second from left), Courtesy SnapLocally.com

M….Seconds Out Promotions has been very busy the last couple years, how hard has it been putting so many shows together?

Tony Grygelko…. Our team has put a tremendous amount of hard work in over the years and there has been struggles along the way but we have never stopped our progression towards becoming not just the best fight promotion in the Midwest but to be considered one of the best in the world. Our endeavor has been no different than any other company trying to make it in this volatile economy and we have been able to keep growing because we understand that in today’s market you need to be innovative and have the ability to change the mold of the industry that you are working in. We have branched into promoting hybrid events which have included both boxing and MMA, along with launching into the MMA market as a whole. We have provided true value to our fighters that we have represented and most of all, we have provided our fan base with some of the most exciting events that Minnesota has ever seen.

 
M…..You are now quite active in MMA as well as boxing. I am a fan of both sports but that does not always seem to be the case with boxing fans and MMA fans, why do you think that is? And do you thinking working with both sports helps fans from the other to gain more understanding and enjoyment from each combat sport?

Tony Grygelko…. What I see with MMA is a younger age demographic that has a hunger for a high impact and fast paced sport to fill their entertainment needs and that is exactly what MMA  brings them but I think we have witnessed a big change in the fight fans over the year. By exposing the younger demographic to the sport of boxing we have created a more complete fight fan who comes to both of our events to enjoy the explosive matchups. 

 
M….What is the story with Joey Abell’s fight in Africa, is that fight still happening?

Tony Grygelko…. It sure is! We just signed the contract yesterday and the fight will now be taken place on May 29th.
 

M….I have talked with several fighters who have felt Abell’s power and they all confirm it to be world class, what do you see in Joey Abell’s future?

Tony Grygelko….  I think Joey has all of the attributes to become a champion and his power is like nothing most people in boxing have ever seen but I the most over looked skill that Joey has is his speed. There is nobody in boxing today that is as big as Joe that can match his hand speed.

 
M….”Golden” Caleb Truax, what comes to mind?

Tony Grygelko….  Total package!! Not just a the total package of a boxing champion but the total package of a amazing person. He dedication to self improvement is what makes him very special. The kid is truly “Golden”!

 
M…. I along with many others have noticed Truax’s rapid growth over the last year, what do you attribute that to?

Tony Grygelko….  It’s because he understands that he is only as good as the people he surrounds himself with. He has great people in his corner that make consistent efforts to help him and Caleb understands the value of them. When I say people in his corner I don’t just mean his management or his trainers, it’s also his family, friends, and most of all his fans!

 
M….I thought Kerry Hope was a great victory for Truax, what are your thoughts from that fight and Kerry Hope as a fighter?

Tony Grygelko…. I think we saw exactly what we wanted to see. Caleb was in a tough fight that challenged him to learn after each round, that’s the type of fights you need are building towards a championship.  Kerry Hope could have beaten any other middleweight in the state that night, he just happened to run into the best of them all.

M….You guys answered many a fans request by putting on Truax vs Williams, how did this fight come together?

Tony Grygelko….  Well Caleb and Phil are in my mind the best middleweights in the state. I know Phil has struggled over his last couple of fights but he has now found a new focus and I believe we are going to see a new Phil Williams on April 23rd.

 
M….What do you see this fight doing for its winner?

Tony Grygelko….Well I would love to see Kolle step up and fight either one of these fighters. I don’t think he could last one round with fighters that possess the power that both Caleb and Phil have. Remember the Paul Williams fight!!! I really don’t think that fight will happen so I think the winner of the April 23 fight will look to get out on the national scene.

M….Do you have the rest of the card rounded out? Or any hints as to what other fights we may see?

Tony Grygelko….Well we had Marcus LeVesseur and Mike Richman slated to compete in MMA action but they had the UFC tryouts and well let’s just say they won’t be able to fight on the 23rd.  As for the boxing we are looking to put Jon, Charles, and Ismail to a test. We are also happy to announce that we will have Antwon Robertson and Derek Winston on the card. Both these fighters are original products of Lyke’s Boxing Gym.

M….The last couple of years have been quite active in Minnesota boxing, how do you see boxing in our state?

Tony Grygelko….I think we rate up there with some of the most active states. We certainly have the talent and the fans to be considered the best state of boxing. Hell we are the Midwest right? As my good friend Roger Mayweather always says… The best fighters come from the Midwest!

M….What are some things you think Minnesota boxing fans have to look forward to?

Tony Grygelko…. Well lets all come out and support the two best Middleweights in the state on April 23 and at that event I have a real big announcement to make for June!

M…. How would you rate Minnesota’s fighters? Any guys you are excited about?
 

Tony Grygelko….The best fighters come from the Midwest!
If I was going to dip into the vast talent pool here in Minnesota I would want to work… I’m not telling!

Well if you look at the true 8 weight classes in boxing you could say Minnesota is talent rich.

Flyweight

Antwan Robertson

Bantamweight

Vincente Alfaro

Featherweight

Ismail Muwendo

Lt Weight

Jason Litzau

Welter

M Kayango

Middle

Caleb Tuax

Lt Heavy

Marcus Oliveria

Heavy

Joey Abell

Fighter that I am the most excited about is Cerresso Fort. I think with the right team this kid could be very good. I think he has made some move recently that has shown the he really is ready to start making some big steps with his career. I wish him the best of luck!

M….Thanks for sharing with our readers. Is there anything you would like to add?

Tony Grygelko….Don’t forget to get your tickets for the St Paul Brawl. Tickets are available at www.ticketweb.com

Matt Vanda/Andy Kolle Courtesy Walters Photography, all rights reserved

Its only days away, the showdown between Minnesota’s middleweight champ Andy “Kaos” Kolle and Matt Vanda April 2 at Hinckley Grand Casino. There have been several big MN vs MN showdowns, but few live up to the hype. Vanda/Kolle 1 did more than live up to the hype, it was a fan friendly war in the ring with Kaos coming away with the win and in his words “a great time.”  I have yet to talk to anybody who was not entertained by the first installment of the fight. Kolle/Vanda 2 should be all that and more. Vanda has much to prove after Manfredo as well as just needing another good win to stay in the mix nationally. Kolle has much more to lose in this fight; he already has a win against Vanda, he is the Minnesota middleweight champ, he is coming off of three impressive KO’s.  But the bottom line is this, Kolle/Vanda 2 has all the makings for the biggest event of the year. Neither Kolle or Vanda are going to back down from anybody and that includes each other. No matter who you are pulling for, this fight should please. Below is a recent conversation we had with Andy “Kaos” Kolle.

M….After having that huge victory over Bonsante and following it up with another great KO of Shuler, was it hard watching guys like Vanda and Truax having all those fights in 2009?

Kolle….Yes, very hard. Especially after winning that fight against Bonsante, we really wanted to ride that out, and were hoping to be able to do that nationally, unfortunately that’s not how it worked out. It is what it is.

M…. Why do you think it has been difficult to get some national fights?

Kolle…. I’m the type of fighter right now that without that big money backing, its high risk low reward for them to fight somebody who has been knocking people out.

M…. Do you see any big fights coming to the twin ports in the near future?

Kolle….I honestly don’t know about that, that’s Chucks business. Too much political stuff that I don’t get in to.

M….A lot of guys seem to be very hands-on as far as career path and active in helping to pick out who they fight next, how involved are you in that process or do you let Chuck Horton do most of that?

Kolle….I will let him know if there is somebody Id like to fight. But just like with Bonsante and Vanda, Chuck will bring up the name and I will say yes.

M….One of the really cool things I have been able to see over the last year and a half is the growth in skill and physicality of some of Minnesota’s boxers. You are one those who really has grown both physically and mentally. Can you share some of what you have been doing?

Andy "Kaos" Kolle, Courtesy SnapLocally.com

Kolle….

I take this job very seriously, its my life. I wake up in the morning and I have a workout routine I go through. Its different every day, Kettle Bells, Tire slams, unconventional kinds of stuff, and then I go to the gym for a few hours in the afternoon and do my running at night, running the hills of Duluth. Over the last year and a half I have really taken my mind out of everything else and concentrated on boxing. Ever since that Paul Williams fight I have wanted to come back and make a statement in a major way.

M….Do you workout everyday of the week? Are there any days you take off?

Kolle….Sundays, 4 days a week strength, 5 days a week boxing, 6 days a week running and Sunday I don’t do anything. I think rest is also very important.

M….Your last fight against Pat Coleman was at First Ave in MPLS, how did it feel to have such crowd support in the twin cities?

Kolle….It felt awesome. It was a smaller show, club show, but it was awesome knowing I had the whole crowd that was backing me, not just the crowd thats been following me for years but new people as well. It felt good.

M….Most people were quite impressed with you in your last fight against Coleman. Did you feel any ring rust getting in there?

Kolle….No, I didn’t feel any ring rust at all. I stay active even when I don’t have a fight, I’m always working out and sparring.

M….How did it feel fighting Coleman? To me it almost seemed like he was willing to just stand in his shell and maybe just get through the night?

Kolle….He seemed like he was just trying to survive. He had a good guard and would get in his shell, that’s why I had to do a few things different and get him to open up.

M….Coleman’s corner kept yelling for him to through the right. Is that something you heard, were you trying to draw him in?

Kolle….Thats just basic boxing 101 from a trainer that didn’t have any idea what he should do. That’s the first thing to tell a right-handed fighter who is fighting a southpaw.

M….154, that is a weight we had talked about a year ago, is it just really hard to find fights there right now?

Kolle….Also when we talked about that I told you unless its a Minnesota fight, then I will defend at 160. Last summer I was ready to fight at 154 but my opponent came in way over. I still weighed in at 155.

M….So the plan is to stay at 154 for national fights?

Kolle….That’s what I want. I feel that is the size for me on the national level. Those guys are big, even look at the size Pat Coleman was in my last fight.

M….Matt Vanda, what comes to mind?

Kolle….He is the type of fighter that fans like to see. He has proven himself and he has that fan base for a good reason, he gives them what they want. Even on the national level, he’s been beaten, but he always shows up.

M….There are those who see this as a high risk low reward type fight. Why this fight and why now?

Kolle….After our last fight, I told him I would give him another. He has earned that rematch with what he has done since then. I gave him my word.

M….Does the fact that Vanda lost almost every round to Manfredo make this fight hard from the standpoint of what you have to do to make it worth it?

Kolle….No, Ive just got to beat him and it really doesn’t matter how you do it. Styles make fights and Manfredo has a different style than I do and John Duddy has a different style than I do and so on. My goal is to win every round I fight, but I don’t have to, I just need to win more rounds than him. I would like to take him out, but my goal is to win.

M….Speaking of some of those guys Vanda has had the good fortune to get in the ring with, Manfredo, Duddy, Chaves Jr., Would you like the chance to get in there with them and how different would the outcomes be?

Kolle….I would love to get in the ring with Duddy or Chaves. They have talked about fighting at 154 and I would love to do it. We had an offer for Duddy but his team decided they didnt want it.

M….Given that the names we mentioned were unable to take Matt out, does that give you added motivation for the KO and do you think that would get you more national exposure?

Kolle….It would maybe open eyes but probably close some checkbooks.

M….There are those who think you are trying to avoid Caleb Truax, I don’t think either of you are avoiding the other, but what are your thoughts?

Kolle….There is no part of me avoiding Caleb Truax, I would fight that kid anytime and anywhere. Now he’s fighting Phil. I am ready for you Caleb anytime you want it.

M….So its just been that there has not been a date, contract, money or any details ever hammered out?

Kolle….To be honest I dont know all the ins and outs. All I know is after the Target Center show I came in the ring and asked for Matt and Caleb. Matt came to the table first. Caleb had a cut I think. Im not saying Caleb’s scared. We both have managers and guys that take care of our fights. I am ready to fight him any time.

M….Andy Kolle vs Matt Vanda to many people is the biggest fight out there in Minnesota, how do you see it?

Andy "Kaos" Kolle, Courtesy Walters Photography

Kolle….

I do believe it is the biggest fight in Minnesota right now, I have the belt for Minnesota and he brings one of the biggest challenges. You know going to a Vanda fight you will get your money’s worth and you know I am going to bring it every time too. Two guys who are not afraid to throw punches, you wont see lulls in action like you do in some others.

M…. As a guy who likes to go after it himself, is it extra exciting to fight a guy like Vanda who you know will bring it?

Kolle….That first fight with Vanda was the most fun I have ever had in the ring, just going at it, throwing all caution to the wind, that was a blast. That probably wasn’t the way I should have fought him, but it was my first big fight and I wanted everyone to know I am right here too. That’s another reason I wanted that rematch because that first one was a blast.

M….I have watched your first fight with Vanda many times, and every time I have you winning on points pretty clearly, but there are some Vanda fans who just don’t see it that way. How do you feel about that victory?

Kolle….The fans that say he won that fight are the same ones who feel he won the Garr fight. They are good fans and they are sticking up for their boy, but I won that fight. When I watch it I think I maybe lost two rounds, one being the round Igot knocked down.

M….There has been much talk about the one knock down from your fight with Vanda, tell us about it.

Kolle….. It was the first time I had been down so I took my time getting back up. I’ve seen fighters to eager to get off the mat only to get hit again. I took my time and dominated the rest of that round and fight.

M….Matt Vanda has had big wins against Phil Williams, Ted Muller, and Tocker Pudwill in the last 12 months. Do you think Vanda is better today than the guy you fought a couple years ago?

Kolle….Yeah, that is another reason for the rematch. He has gotten better and earned it. That’s what I want, I want a challenge. I have gotten better since our fight, I don’t want the same Vanda I fought two years ago, I want the challenge of a better Vanda.

M….What makes Vanda better today?

Kolle….I think he is a lot stronger and more comfortable in the ring. He is more of a polished pro now.

M….Most people who have fought Vanda talk about how tough he is to get down. Does that play on your mind at all, make you want to take him out that much more?

Kolle….Everybody wants to be the first guy to put somebody down. That’s not really my thoughts on this fight, get the win and move on.

M….How many fights would you like to have this year? Or are you more to the point of just wanting quality fights?

Kolle….I’d rather have quality fights than number of fights. 5 fights in a year is a pretty stacked schedule for someone who is fighting 10 rounders all the time.

M….After Vanda, would you like to continue to clean up the state or would you like to begin to again test the national waters?

Kolle….I have big dreams. I would like to fight outside of Minnesota and help establish this thing our boxing has going here. If your from New York or California you don’t want to be the best in your state, you want to compete with the best from all over.

M….So you are more than ready to go on another promoters card from New York or Vegas as long as it is a well matched opportunity?

Kolle….Like I said, I would love to fight guys like Duddy or Chaves Jr.

M….Any thoughts on Phil Williams vs Caleb Truax?

Kolle….I don’t really know, I think its going to be who gets to who first. I don’t know that it will go the distance. I am pulling for Truax to win it.

M….You have already said you would fight Truax, what about Williams if he were to win?

Kolle….Absolutely, if Williams can come in and make 160. That’s the same with Truax, its 160lbs.

M….What are your thoughts on Gary Eyer vs Brad Patraw?

Kolle….Im excited for that fight. Gary goes for it every time, and from what I have seen of Brad, he isn’t afraid of throwing punches either. That should be a fun one while it lasts, but I don’t expect it to make the distance.

M….The battle of your buddies, Tyler Hultin vs Tim Taggard. I know you’re friends with both guys, but how do you see this fight?

Kolle….That’s a tough fight for me, Tyler has been my boy for a long time and Timmy has become a friend of mine, he lived with me for a while. The only thing I can say about that fight is you are not going to want to blink. It will be all out while it lasts.

Get your tickets now, there are fewer than 100 left for April 2 at Hinckley Grand Casino.

Eyer/Patraw, April 2 at Hinckley Grand Casino on the undercard of Kolle/Vanda. Gary “Stone Cold” Eyer has been on many a boxing fans minds since his last fight December 4 2009. His fight with Levi Cortes was voted by most to be Minnesota fight of year. Those in Duluth have always known how much heart and toughness the man who comes to the ring to “do you really want to hurt me” has. Eyer’s fight with Cortes proved that to many beyond Duluth. I asked Eyer about his April 2nd opponent, “Bad” Brad Patraw and his answer was that he thought Patraw a brave, slick, skilled boxer. He also added that he hoped he was too brave for his own good. Below is our conversation.

Gary "Stone Cold" Eyer, Courtesy SnapLocally.com

M….You made a real splash with your last fight, most people had Eyer/Cortes as fight of the year in Minnesota for 2009. Looking back at that fight, what are your thoughts now?

Eyer….That was a tougher fight then I was expecting, Levi can fight and when he fights again I’d like to be there to watch it. I’m a fan of his, I like his style I’m glad I won and I learned a lot from that fight, I needed that fight it made me a better boxer.

 
M….How has training camp been going?

 
Eyer….It’s been the best camp, I hope it pays off with a win.

M….You weighed in at right around 132 for your last fight, how hard is making 126?

Eyer….It’s not fun, it’s just a little more hard work, but I feel good. I’m right where I want to be and I have high hopes of making 122 and 120 in the feature. Ill know if I can make those weights after this fight.

M….Do you plan to spend most of your time in the 120’s?

Eyer….I hope to be in the 120s for a long time, it’s kinda nice being the bigger guy in the fight and as I get the chance to fight longer fights, 8 rounds 10 rounds making the 126 and lower should be easier to do.  I feel being as small as I can get is my best chance at making a nice boxing career for myself.

 
M….There had been talk of a showdown between you and Jeremy McLaurin, is that a fight you would like?

Eyer…. Ill fight Jeremy as long as I get the right number of rounds and the right $ for the fight. It would be a risky fight but for sure a good one.  I’d like to see him fight Boxley or Levi.

M….Have you spent any time watching his fights?

Eyer…. I’ve seen a few of his fights. I like the match up with him, it should go a few rounds at least, so we both will learn things from this fight, getting the much needed rounds of experience.

 
M….I have heard you mention Patraw before as somebody you would like to fight, how excited are you to get it?

Eyer…..I’m pretty pumped. This is the one fight I really feel like I can win and he can fight. So I’m in a fight that I think I can win on the biggest card of the year and we both wanna steal the show and have fight of the night and possible fight of the year.

 
M….Many fans think this could be another real barn burner for you, how do you see this fight?

Eyer….I think its gonna be a skillful fight. The better boxer is going to win by out boxing the other guy with some good exchanges that should get the crowd going nuts.

 
M….You help coach Horton’s gym amateurs, do you have any predictions for their upcoming Golden Gloves tournament?

 
Eyer….It’s Al Sands year. Jarred Guerrero can punch, it was awesome to see what he did in his last fight, and Mark Pogorelskin is getting better and better he has the best chin out of all the guys. he will do well.

 
M….Have there been any talks of out of state fights in your near future?

Eyer….Yeah I cant wait for them. Ill be ready.

 
M….Andy “Kaos” Kolle VS Matt Vanda, what comes to mind?

Eyer…. The best fight I have ever seen in person and they are going to repeat it.

 
M….Why should people get out to this event?

Eyer…. It’s gonna be one of the best cards of the year with a good chance of being number 1 in the end.

Tyler Hultin

Tyler “The Hitman” Hultin is set to face the always tough Tim Taggart Aril 2 at Hinckley Grand Casino. Hultin will be stepping into Taggarts backyard to take on a former Horton fighter. I was lucky enough to be able to watch a little of Hutlin sparring with Andy “Kaos” Kolle as well as working the mitts with Chuck Horton. He has some power! Like many who were able to watch Hultin at Bridge Battle’s one and two, I was instantly a fan. Hultin has that Fergus/Duluth/ Horton’s gym sort of feel, tough, scrappy, and unafraid. Tyler Hultin took some time to answer a few questions from The League below.

M….We haven’t caught up with you since your pro debut and victory, How did it feel to get that first fight and win last May?

Hultin….It’s hard to express that kind of feelings in words! I felt on top of the world and was ready for more!

 
M…..You also had a highly entertaining public workout with Scott Ball last June, do you have any thoughts from that sparring session?

Hultin….I think that was a broad turning point when I realized I’m at a different level. I went in there feeling like I was in a real fight like I always do! I understand more that any wrong thing you do in the ring can cause a turning point, also it makes me want to have a real fight with Ball down the road!

 
M….You will be fighting Tim Taggart April 2, how much do you know about him?

Hultin….Tim and I clashed Heads back in Amateurs, many years ago.. also I had watched him many years after that when we were in different weight classes. I know the pro level is a whole new world and he has progressed, but so have I and I know when it comes down to conditioning I rank myself High!
 

M…..Do you think the fact that he used to workout out of Horton’s gym may help him in any way in preparing to fight you?

Hultin….I Don’t think that will benefit him very much. Ive learned very much with working with Horton’s gym, but I am my own person and when it comes down to it I know what I have to do to win!
 

M….You had a pretty vocal crowd for your first pro fight, do you think they are going to follow you to Hinckley?
 

Hultin….Yes I Did! And yes they will be! What you saw in Duluth, you can multiply that by 10 and thats what kind of support we have from our small town of Fergus Falls!!

 M…. How much time have you spent training in Duluth over the past year?

Tyler Hultin

Hultin….

Every chance I had Free time I was up there training.. taking everything I learned and brought it back to my coaches. Furthering my potential and my coaches!
 

M….How much impact do you think being able to spar with Minnesota’s number one middle has on your game?
 

Hultin….Koas!! I couldn’t ask for better! Its made me a better fighter by far! Its great to know I can help him out with his up coming fights, as he does for me every time! Sparring with him has made me a much smarter fighter and much more accurate, cuz when your fighting kolle you never want to be hit….. ever!! 
 

M….Do you have any plans to relocate to Duluth to be closer to your team?

Hultin….Yes,i do. I feel with the type of training I get at camp, if I could get that all the time I feel I could also get my name out there and be on the top for Minnesota’s fighters!
 

M….Has it been difficult waiting for almost a year to get your second fight as a pro? Do you think it has made you even hungrier to get back in the ring?
 

Hultin….Hungry is an Understatement….. it has been like a steady anticipation just waiting for my next chance.. everyone will notice that when I step into the ring come April 2nd.!!
 

M….What should fans expect to see when you and Tim Taggart meet in the ring?

Hultin….FIREWORKS!! Taggart is going to try to make it end as fast as he can, but I have different Plans!
 

M….How many fights do you hope to have this year?
 

Hultin….I’m hoping for 5 fights this year! The more the merrier!! Ready to make a stand.
 

M….Do you feel you will continue to battle at this weight?

Hultin…. The more I learn about the pros the more I know that being a middle weight wont benefit me in the long run… 154 is where I want to be at! Couple more at middle weight and then were going down!
 

M…. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?
 

Hultin….I want to Thank everybody for all the support and not forgetting about me! I’m back and ready!! Thanks again Todd!!

"Bad" Brad Patraw

“Bad” Brad Patraw (6,1) VS Gary “Stone Cold” Eyer (7,0,1) has generated a ton of talk among boxing fans. These two will meet on the same night as Kolle/Vanda and add to an already stacked night of fights. Anyone who has watched these two battle over the last couple of years knows this should be a fun one. Eyer has spent his time in the 130’s and Patraw in the 120’s and their fight is set at 126 lbs. This will be the lowest weight Eyer has fought at and for Patraw its a little bit heavier than he would like to campaign. So the weight does not seem to hold an advantage for either fighter. In talking with both boxers, I get the feeling they know this is going to be an explosion of action. Below “Bad” Brad Patraw was kind enough to answer a few of our questions.

M…. What have you been up to since your last fight back in October?

Patraw…. Not to much, just taking care of my son who was born Jan 3rd 2010.

 
 
M…. Do you have any comments from your state title fight with Antwan Robertson?

 
Patraw….I don’t really have nothing to say about my last fight other then the 2nd knock down shouldn’t have been one .. even with it I think it should have been a draw.

 
M…. After Antwans last fight he offered you a rematch. Do you see that taking place this year?

Patraw…. No, I am thinking Ill never get it .I was hoping it would have been April 2nd.

 
M…. Gary “Stone Cold” Eyer, what comes to mind?

Patraw…. A tough mother $%#@%.

"Bad" Brad Patraw, left, courtesy SnapLocally.com

 
M…. Have you and Eyer ever fought before in the ams?

Patraw….No, we never fought.

M…. Has Eyer been on your radar as a possible opponent, or was this fight kind of a surprise to you?

Patraw…. It was a big surprise to me.

 
M…. From watching both you and Eyer fight, this has all the makings for a huge action packed brawl, how do you see it?

Patraw…. I think it could be cause I’m not scared to mix it up at all and he is not either. So Ill leave it at that and you can see April 2nd

 
M…. Have you been able to see many of Eyers fights? Were you able to see Eyer/Cortez?

 
Patraw…. No, I did see a little of his pro debut .. and I did see it.

 
M…. You had mentioned to me in the past that you would like to take your show on the road, is that still something you are looking to do in the near future?

Patraw….Yes I do want to get on a card out of state and I have been talking to a matchmaker from NY.

 
M…. Is 126 the weight you feel most comfortable at? Are there any other weights you would like to try?

Patraw…. I took it at 126 cause I don’t think I was going to have a choice. It was like I take this fight or I’m not fighting. I would like to stay at 122.

M…. Do you have any predictions for Kolle/Vanda?

Patraw…. I like them both, I know Vanda better and I think he will pull it off.

M…. Is there anything you would like to add?

Patraw…. I would Like to say after this fight I hope I get better recognition around here . I want to thank my family ,my friends and my fans for sticking by me , also my new sponsor for backing me, Shakers Vodka ,thanks.

Here are two prior interviews of Patraw.

8-11-09 Brad Patraw

10-18-09 Brad Patraw

Heather Hutchins was kind enough to answer a few questions for The League before her pro debut tonight in Canada.

Heather Hutchins (right)

M…. What sparked your interest in boxing?

Hutchins…. In 2002, I had a friend in the police reserves that was also a kickboxing instructor. I was looking for an inexpensive way to lose weight, relieve stress and gain self-confidence. So, I gave it a try and I guess you could say I’ve been “hooked” ever since.

 
M…. How long have you been training?

Hutchins…. My USA Boxing book says my first fight was back in 2003, so probably right around then. Although, I’ve had to take time off from it here and there, the longest stretch being almost 2 years just recently. That was due to a tremendous amount of personal, legal and financial stress. 

 
M….  This Friday in Canada will be your pro debut, what made you decide now was the right time to make that step?

Hutchins…. Why not? I’ve wanted this opportunity ever since winning multiple state and regional championships and earning a bronze medal at Nationals in 2005. I remember saying then that you’d see me in the professional boxing circuit someday. Just because I fell on some hard times between then and now doesn’t mean I’m not ready. In fact, it’s driven me more. Along with proving this to myself, I feel a need to prove to everyone and everything that tried to stand in my way that they didn’t win. I came back stronger and better because of it.
 
 
M…. Who is your primary trainer? Will they be in your corner on the 12th?

Hutchins…. John Hoffman is my trainer and manager. Yes, of course he’ll be in my corner this Friday. He got me the fight and he has more than prepared me for it. I am so grateful to him and his family for all they’ve done to help me with this.
 
 
M….  How would you describe your boxing style?

Hutchins…. I come to fight, give it all I got and ultimately be the one that wins in the end. John’s helped me correct a lot of bad habits I had and improve on my strengths at the same time. My style is to keep coming at you, not back down until either you’re down or the ref steps in. That part hasn’t changed.

 
M…. Your opponent is also making her pro debut, do you know anything about her?

Heather Hutchins (left)

Hutchins….

I know her name, that she has about the same amount of amateur experience as me and that it’s also her pro debut. That’s all I need to know really. We’ll figure the rest out in the ring on Friday.

 
M…. What are your goals in boxing?

Hutchins…. My goal right now is to turn professional. After that, I’ll make a new goal.

 
M…. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?

Hutchins…. One of the many things I’ve learned from all of this is never take anything for granted, believe in yourself and go for it no matter what people tell you. If you don’t like what people are telling you and it doesn’t feel right, trust that instinct and find a better crowd. What you get is what you got and you only get one chance. It’s all up to you. Thanks to everyone that helped me get here.

Don George (right)

Phil “The Drill” Williams (11,2) will be traveling to Chicago Illinois to face Don “Da Bomb” George January 29 at the UIC Pavilion. Williams is looking to get past his loss to Vanda while Don George is looking to continue his path of destruction. George has not yet tasted defeat and out of his 18 fights only 2 have made it to the final bell. Don George was kind enough to take some time to do a quick Q and A with us, below is our conversation.

M….When did you take up boxing and why?

Don George….I started boxing because of my father he was an Amateur boxer who boxed out of Chicago and he introduced me to boxing when  I was 5 and got me hooked. Looking back I remember that when I put my first pair of gloves on, I liked to punch so much that it was a natural thing for me to do. I would finish school and go into our garage and punch the bag practically everyday, which of course made my dad a very happy man.

M….Judging from your record (18,0) with 16 KO’s, you are a heavy hitter. How would you describe your style?

Don George….I am a boxer puncher and I have very good solid boxing skills and great footwork. I know that a lot of people in boxing look at my record and all they see are knockouts and think that I am only a puncher. I love knocking my opponents out its the greatest feeling in the world, but I combine my power with my boxing skills because I know that I can really box……so do not be blinded by my power, Donovan George is the real deal and the complete package.

M….Are there any fighters past or present that you try to pattern yourself after?

Don George….I would never pattern myself after anybody I am Donovan George and I am what I am and the rest of the fighters past or present are who they are. I want to be known for myself as a fighter and to compare myself with other fighters I don’t believe is fair to myself or them.

M….What fighters are must-see for you?

Don George….I grew up watching all of the great fighters like Sugar Ray Robinson, Roberto Duran, Marvin Hagler, Muhammad Ali and Diego Corrales these are just a few of my favorites; and of course their are many more. I love Sugar Ray I think he is the greatest fighter of all time and I believe that nobody can compare to him as the total package in boxing he is the man.

Don George landing DA Bomb

M….Da Bomb, I have a pretty good guess of how you got your moniker. When did they start calling you that and how did it come about?

Don George….In Chicago everybody pronounces practically everything with the word “DA”, example of this is; Da Bulls, DaBears etc; and because of my punching power we came up  with “DA BOMB” and it just took of off and now everybody knows that’s me.

M….It’s been said that Phil “The Drill” Williams will be your toughest fight to date, do you feel that is a true statement?

Don George….First I would like to say to everyone that has made these statements that Williams will be my easiest fight, I will dissect him and brutally destroy him. I am on my way to the top and all Williams is doing is helping to get there by showing up for the fight and take a beating and that’s all there is to it. Before this guy agreed to fight me nobody knew who he was, does anybody know who he is outside of where he lives.

M….Have you done much studying of Williams fights?

Don George….I have trained for this fight like I train for all of my fights; like I am fighting for a World Title. There is nothing to study about Williams his record speaks for itself every time he has boxed somebody that can fight he has lost and he will brutally and painfully lose to me on January 29th because as Williams already knows i can really fight.

Don George and Mike Michael

M….How did this fight come to be?

Don George….Cestus Management who is my manager and my promoters Warriors Boxing & 8 Count Productions offered the fight to Williams and he accepted (which was the biggest mistake of his life). I needed to fight someone to stay busy and keep sharp because I like to fight as much as I can, if it was up to me I would fight every week if it was possible.

M….For those coming out to watch you guys go January 29, what can they expect to see?

Don George….I have trained as hard as fighter can possibly train for a fight and I know and understand what I must do to Williams and I will execute our fight plan to the last letter. I will be at my best and put on a super display of boxing combined with bone crushing power that will be to much for Williams, I will give the fans the sensational victory that they want and totally destroy Williams.

I want to also let your readers know that I am sure that Williams has regretted taking the fight against me and has now realized as the fight is getting closer how big of a beating I am going to give him and how bad he is going to lose on January 29th.

 M….Do you have any predictions?

Don George….Williams will lose the fight and find out what it means to fight Donovan George and have “DA BOMB” explode all over him.  

M….Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?

Don George….I would like to thank everybody for taking the time to read this article and promise everybody that I will be at my best and deliver a hell of a performance and a huge win.

We would like to thank Don George for doing this Q and A with us and Mike Michael for making it happen. For more information on George or Cestus Management click here cestusboxing.com/

Larry Sharpe

“Look for me to press the action. I am coming to fight.” Larry Sharpe

When the undercard to Abell/Butler was starting to fill out, many were surprised to see Larry “Razor” Sharpe fighting Zach “Jungle Boy” Walters. I have to admit I was one of them. Sharpe has spent much of his time fighting around 154lbs, but given recent fights and call outs it really has become the norm. Vanda wanted Walters earlier in the year and ended up taking care of Phil Williams. Both Walters and Williams have a pretty large weight edge on Vanda but that didn’t seem to matter in Vanda’s last two fights with Williams and Teddy Muller. The Predator actually had an easier time with Williams than he did against Ted Muller in my opinion. But I have no doubt that Williams would take out Muller, Walters did it in 3 rounds, while Vanda went to the judges. I guess what I am getting at in a horrible fashion is that styles make fights. Size matters if used properly.

I had the opportunity to talk with Sharpe a few nights back. He started the boxing portion of his fighting career only 6 years ago at the age of 29, but had been involved with professional Thai Boxing since the age of 24. Razor Sharpe knows he is coming into Walters home and doesn’t expect to be able to outbox him. Sharp said of his opponent, ” He is quite a bit taller than me and has a much better pedigree in the sport, its also being fought in his home. I need to focus on cutting the ring off and turning this into a brawl.” I asked him if he had seen any of Walters fights, “I have watched a few on YouTube, he looks like a good boxer.”

The big question in many peoples minds is how will Larry Sharpe look with the added weight and fighting right around 170lbs. I made the mistake of asking Sharpe this question, and he pointed to his last fight. “I knocked out Bruce Rumbolz in the first round of my last fight, he weighed 173lbs.” It should also be noted in Rumbolz’s prior fight he beat Shawn Hammack, the same guy who changed the course of Walters career a little over a year ago. Sharpe added, “I carry some pop at this weight. It was hard for me to get down to 154 and I felt I lost a lot after shedding those pounds. I plan to campaign the rest of my career at super middleweight.”

At the close of our short conversation I asked Sharpe what we should expect from him in this fight? “Look for me to press the action. I am coming to fight.”

Larry “Razor” Sharpe vs Zach “Jungle Boy” Walters this Friday at The Target Center.