Tag: David Morrell

Weekend Review: Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez, only 23, on path to greatness

Weekend Review: Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez, only 23, appears to be on a path to greatness after his knockout of Sunny Edwads on Saturday.

A critical look at the past week in boxing

BIGGEST WINNER
Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez

Consider what Rodriguez has accomplished the past 22 months. He moved up from 112 pounds to 115 and took down mainstays Carlos Cuadras and Srisaket Sor Rungvisai, easily outpointed Israel Gonzalez, fought through a broken jaw to outpoint Cristian Gonzalez back at 112 and obliterated a supposed boxing wizard – Sunny Edwards – to unify two titles in his final fight at the weight Saturday. And he’s only 23. This is crazy stuff. Rodriguez’s performance against Edwards was sensational. He patiently, methodically broke down the second best flyweight, beat him up, made his face look like a war zone, put him down and finally forced Edwards’ trainer to save him from further punishment after nine rounds. A compelling matchup on paper was a rout in the ring. Of course, Rodriguez’s biggest challenges could lie ahead. He called out future Hall of Famer Juan Francisco Estrada, a 115-pound titleholder. And the great Chocolatito Gonzalez lurks. If Rodriguez (19-0, 12 KOs) gets and wins those fights? We could be talking about a truly great fighter.

 

BIGGEST LOSER
Sunny Edwards

Sunny Edwards took a terrible beating in the end. Christian Petersen / Getty Images

Edwards (20-1, 4 KOs) had a chance to become a superstar in his country. Instead, he’ll have to begin a rebuilding process. The Londoner’s undeniable technical ability proved too much for his first 20 opponents, who had trouble winning a round against him. His problem was that those 20 couldn’t compare to Rodriguez, whose combination of skill and power presented a challenge he couldn’t overcome. Edwards did well for a few rounds but was worn down by Rodriguez’s relentless attack and heavy blows, which set up the ninth-round knockdown and the end of what became a brutal beat down. Edwards is known as a defensive wizard yet Rodriguez landed 62.1% of his power punches. It was that kind of night for Edwards. Of course, the 27-year-old remains an elite boxer. He’ll go back to beating good opponents not named “Bam” and probably win another world title or two. However, the opportunity to become the face of boxing south of the heavyweight division in the United Kingdom probably came and went on Saturday.

 

BIGGEST WINNER II
David Morrell

The 168-pound contender’s second-round knockout of Sena Agbeko in Minneapolis proved next to nothing because of Agbeko’s limitations but it still was a special night for the Cuban. He can always say he delivered a stoppage on the final fight on Showtime. His parents were able to travel from Cuba to see him fight in person for the first time, which obviously meant a great deal to him. And it gave him the platform to call out the man he has been chasing – David Benavidez – one more time, which is part of the process of making fights happen. I don’t know when – or even if – Morrell will lure Benavidez into the ring but I do believe the former amateur star would be handful for his young rival and undisputed champion Canelo Alvarez because of his all-around ability. Find me an obvious weakness. Agbeko isn’t an elite fighter but he’s a solid one. And Morrell toyed with him before deciding to lower the boom less than five minutes into the fight. This guy is a genuine beast. Maybe he’ll get his chance to prove that beyond doubt in the coming year.

 

BIGGEST WINNER III
Jake Paul

Say what you want about Paul – and you will – you have to acknowledge that he has a flair for the dramatic. The right uppercut that ended his fight against Andre August in the first round Friday night was another viral moment for him. His wave goodbye as August lay on his back was good theater. And so was the moment he looked directly into the TV camera and made a shushing gesture, his way of telling his critics to shut up. How could you not love a knockout artist with a big personality? Does that mean he’ll realize his stated goal of becoming a world champion? Nah. He can now say he took down an experienced boxer but the obscure August seemed to be overwhelmed by the moment, which made him a sitting duck. Paul seems to have legitimate power but his skill set is still raw. He lost a decision to Tommy Fury. It’s difficult to imagine him developing to a point where he could beat legitimate champions. To be fair, though, Paul’s story already is improbable. Who really knows what this guy will accomplish when all is said and done?

 

RABBIT PUNCHES

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/IHv90bT4XCE

Former 122-pound unified titleholder Murodjon Akhmadaliev bounced back from his split decision loss to Marlon Tapales in impressive fashion, breaking down and knocking out previously unbeaten Kevin Gonzalez in the eighth round of a scheduled 12-rounder. Akhmadaliev (12-1 (9 KOs) put Gonzalez (26-1-1, 13 KOs) down three times, twice in Round 6 and once more in Round 8 before the referee finally stopped the slaughter. No one in the division is going to beat superstar Naoya Inoue, who is scheduled to face Tapales for the undisputed championship on Dec. 26. However, Akhmadaliev demonstrated that he might be a more legitimate threat than anyone else. …

Talented 112-pound contender Galal Yafai (6-0, 4 KOs) earned a one-sided decision over Rocco Santomauro (22-3, 6 KOs), also on the Rodriguez-Edwards card. The 2020 Olympic champion’s combination of boxing ability and high work rate is formidable. However, the 31-year-old from England would have to be more responsible defensively to beat the top fighters in and near his weight class. He’s easy to hit. I’m guessing that’s something he and his team will work on going forward. … One of the more unlikely knockouts of the year occurred directly before the Yafai-Santomauro fight. Talented 122-pound contender Peter McGrail (8-1, 5 KOs) was outclassing Ja’Rico O’Quinn (17-1-1, 9 KOs) – who went down twice – when the Briton got caught with a right hook that put him down and out in the fifth round. That’s how a break-out performance instantaneously turns into a disaster. …

Jose Valenzuela couldn’t have been more impressive in his rematch with Chris Colbert, who defeated him by a disputed decision in March. He put Colbert (17-2, 6 KOs) down in the first round – as he did in the first fight – but this time he didn’t allow his slick opponent to get into a rhythm afterward on the Morrell-Agbeko card. Valenzuela (13-2, 9 KOs) kept the pressure on Colbert, consistently landed hard shots and finally landed the game-ender, a huge right hand in the sixth round. I doubt Valenzuela could hang with the man he called out after his victory, Gervonta Davis, but he’s an improving boxer with legitimate power. Who knows? … The fight between Robert Guerrero (38-6-1, 20 KOs) and Andre Berto (32-6, 24 KOs) on the Morrell-Agbeko card had the feel of a baseball old-timers ago, which makes sense given the fact both men are 40 and hadn’t been active. I support anyone’s decision to fight if he or she passes rigorous physicals beforehand, including these two. At the same time a good-spirited, if dull scrap would be a good way for both men to say goodbye. Oh yeah, Guerrero won a decision. …

Franchon Crews-Dezurn (9-2, 2 KOs) deserves credit. She lost her undisputed 168-pound championship to Savannah Marshall by a majority decision in July but bounced back to easily outpoint previously unbeaten Shadasia Green (13-1, 11 KOs) on the Paul-August card, winning back a vacant belt in the process. That was made possible when the WBC designated the injured Marshall its “champion in recess.” I have a question, though: How does a fighter who loses what should’ve been a unanimous decision – against Marshall – get a title shot in her next fight? Is the talent pool that shallow? … First HBO, now Showtime. The latter premium network showcased many of the most important fights for almost four decades, making it difficult to believe it’s over. Sad day. HBO and Showtime were the windows to the boxing world for three generations of Americans, particularly before the emergence of internet streaming. Now they’re part of history. Of course, the fans think about the countless thrills and brilliant commentators when they think about Showtime. I also think about the talented people behind the scenes whose paths I’ve had the privilege to cross. Farewell. …

[lawrence-related id=40186,40149,40144,40137,40117,40111,40108,40098]

Weekend Review: Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez, only 23, on path to greatness

Weekend Review: Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez, only 23, appears to be on a path to greatness after his knockout of Sunny Edwads on Saturday.

A critical look at the past week in boxing

BIGGEST WINNER
Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez

Consider what Rodriguez has accomplished the past 22 months. He moved up from 112 pounds to 115 and took down mainstays Carlos Cuadras and Srisaket Sor Rungvisai, easily outpointed Israel Gonzalez, fought through a broken jaw to outpoint Cristian Gonzalez back at 112 and obliterated a supposed boxing wizard – Sunny Edwards – to unify two titles in his final fight at the weight Saturday. And he’s only 23. This is crazy stuff. Rodriguez’s performance against Edwards was sensational. He patiently, methodically broke down the second best flyweight, beat him up, made his face look like a war zone, put him down and finally forced Edwards’ trainer to save him from further punishment after nine rounds. A compelling matchup on paper was a rout in the ring. Of course, Rodriguez’s biggest challenges could lie ahead. He called out future Hall of Famer Juan Francisco Estrada, a 115-pound titleholder. And the great Chocolatito Gonzalez lurks. If Rodriguez (19-0, 12 KOs) gets and wins those fights? We could be talking about a truly great fighter.

 

BIGGEST LOSER
Sunny Edwards

Sunny Edwards took a terrible beating in the end. Christian Petersen / Getty Images

Edwards (20-1, 4 KOs) had a chance to become a superstar in his country. Instead, he’ll have to begin a rebuilding process. The Londoner’s undeniable technical ability proved too much for his first 20 opponents, who had trouble winning a round against him. His problem was that those 20 couldn’t compare to Rodriguez, whose combination of skill and power presented a challenge he couldn’t overcome. Edwards did well for a few rounds but was worn down by Rodriguez’s relentless attack and heavy blows, which set up the ninth-round knockdown and the end of what became a brutal beat down. Edwards is known as a defensive wizard yet Rodriguez landed 62.1% of his power punches. It was that kind of night for Edwards. Of course, the 27-year-old remains an elite boxer. He’ll go back to beating good opponents not named “Bam” and probably win another world title or two. However, the opportunity to become the face of boxing south of the heavyweight division in the United Kingdom probably came and went on Saturday.

 

BIGGEST WINNER II
David Morrell

The 168-pound contender’s second-round knockout of Sena Agbeko in Minneapolis proved next to nothing because of Agbeko’s limitations but it still was a special night for the Cuban. He can always say he delivered a stoppage on the final fight on Showtime. His parents were able to travel from Cuba to see him fight in person for the first time, which obviously meant a great deal to him. And it gave him the platform to call out the man he has been chasing – David Benavidez – one more time, which is part of the process of making fights happen. I don’t know when – or even if – Morrell will lure Benavidez into the ring but I do believe the former amateur star would be handful for his young rival and undisputed champion Canelo Alvarez because of his all-around ability. Find me an obvious weakness. Agbeko isn’t an elite fighter but he’s a solid one. And Morrell toyed with him before deciding to lower the boom less than five minutes into the fight. This guy is a genuine beast. Maybe he’ll get his chance to prove that beyond doubt in the coming year.

 

BIGGEST WINNER III
Jake Paul

Say what you want about Paul – and you will – you have to acknowledge that he has a flair for the dramatic. The right uppercut that ended his fight against Andre August in the first round Friday night was another viral moment for him. His wave goodbye as August lay on his back was good theater. And so was the moment he looked directly into the TV camera and made a shushing gesture, his way of telling his critics to shut up. How could you not love a knockout artist with a big personality? Does that mean he’ll realize his stated goal of becoming a world champion? Nah. He can now say he took down an experienced boxer but the obscure August seemed to be overwhelmed by the moment, which made him a sitting duck. Paul seems to have legitimate power but his skill set is still raw. He lost a decision to Tommy Fury. It’s difficult to imagine him developing to a point where he could beat legitimate champions. To be fair, though, Paul’s story already is improbable. Who really knows what this guy will accomplish when all is said and done?

 

RABBIT PUNCHES

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/IHv90bT4XCE

Former 122-pound unified titleholder Murodjon Akhmadaliev bounced back from his split decision loss to Marlon Tapales in impressive fashion, breaking down and knocking out previously unbeaten Kevin Gonzalez in the eighth round of a scheduled 12-rounder. Akhmadaliev (12-1 (9 KOs) put Gonzalez (26-1-1, 13 KOs) down three times, twice in Round 6 and once more in Round 8 before the referee finally stopped the slaughter. No one in the division is going to beat superstar Naoya Inoue, who is scheduled to face Tapales for the undisputed championship on Dec. 26. However, Akhmadaliev demonstrated that he might be a more legitimate threat than anyone else. …

Talented 112-pound contender Galal Yafai (6-0, 4 KOs) earned a one-sided decision over Rocco Santomauro (22-3, 6 KOs), also on the Rodriguez-Edwards card. The 2020 Olympic champion’s combination of boxing ability and high work rate is formidable. However, the 31-year-old from England would have to be more responsible defensively to beat the top fighters in and near his weight class. He’s easy to hit. I’m guessing that’s something he and his team will work on going forward. … One of the more unlikely knockouts of the year occurred directly before the Yafai-Santomauro fight. Talented 122-pound contender Peter McGrail (8-1, 5 KOs) was outclassing Ja’Rico O’Quinn (17-1-1, 9 KOs) – who went down twice – when the Briton got caught with a right hook that put him down and out in the fifth round. That’s how a break-out performance instantaneously turns into a disaster. …

Jose Valenzuela couldn’t have been more impressive in his rematch with Chris Colbert, who defeated him by a disputed decision in March. He put Colbert (17-2, 6 KOs) down in the first round – as he did in the first fight – but this time he didn’t allow his slick opponent to get into a rhythm afterward on the Morrell-Agbeko card. Valenzuela (13-2, 9 KOs) kept the pressure on Colbert, consistently landed hard shots and finally landed the game-ender, a huge right hand in the sixth round. I doubt Valenzuela could hang with the man he called out after his victory, Gervonta Davis, but he’s an improving boxer with legitimate power. Who knows? … The fight between Robert Guerrero (38-6-1, 20 KOs) and Andre Berto (32-6, 24 KOs) on the Morrell-Agbeko card had the feel of a baseball old-timers ago, which makes sense given the fact both men are 40 and hadn’t been active. I support anyone’s decision to fight if he or she passes rigorous physicals beforehand, including these two. At the same time a good-spirited, if dull scrap would be a good way for both men to say goodbye. Oh yeah, Guerrero won a decision. …

Franchon Crews-Dezurn (9-2, 2 KOs) deserves credit. She lost her undisputed 168-pound championship to Savannah Marshall by a majority decision in July but bounced back to easily outpoint previously unbeaten Shadasia Green (13-1, 11 KOs) on the Paul-August card, winning back a vacant belt in the process. That was made possible when the WBC designated the injured Marshall its “champion in recess.” I have a question, though: How does a fighter who loses what should’ve been a unanimous decision – against Marshall – get a title shot in her next fight? Is the talent pool that shallow? … First HBO, now Showtime. The latter premium network showcased many of the most important fights for almost four decades, making it difficult to believe it’s over. Sad day. HBO and Showtime were the windows to the boxing world for three generations of Americans, particularly before the emergence of internet streaming. Now they’re part of history. Of course, the fans think about the countless thrills and brilliant commentators when they think about Showtime. I also think about the talented people behind the scenes whose paths I’ve had the privilege to cross. Farewell. …

[lawrence-related id=40186,40149,40144,40137,40117,40111,40108,40098]

David Morrell stops overmatched Sena Agbeko in two rounds in Showtime finale

Super middleweight contender David Morrell stopped overmatched Sena Agbeko in two rounds in Showtime’s final broadcast Saturday.

Showtime boxing went out with brutal knockout.

That’s thanks to gifted 168-pounder David Morrell, who stopped fellow contender Sena Agbeko midway through the second round of a scheduled 12-round bout Saturday night at The Armory in Minneapolis.

Morrell (10-0, 9 KOs) is only 25. He promised the best is yet to come.

“I’m teaching everyone who is number one,” he said. “I’m ready. I tell everybody, my team, my family. I’m looking forward to next year. For now, I feel happy. Right now, I’m going to go to my house for Christmas and focus on next year.”

Agbeko (28-3, 22 KOs) obviously wasn’t ready for Morrell, who toyed with the Ghanaian from the opening bell.

The former youth amateur star from Cuba poked and prodded, looking for openings for his dangerous power punches as Abegko backpedaled until Morrell finally found the mark.

A right uppercut followed by a short left stunned Agbeko and forced him into a corner, where Morrell unloaded a series of damaging blows to the head and body and took nothing in return.

That prompted referee Mark Nelson to jump between them and stop the fight, which saved Agbeko from taking unnecessary punishment. The official time of the stoppage was 1:43 of Round 2.

Morrell landed 68% of his power shots, according to CompuBox, an indication of how dominating he was.

The victory won’t change the way Morrell is perceived because of Agbeko’s limitations but this one was special for Morrell, whose parents were able to travel from Cuba to see him fight in person for the first time.

“Everybody came out for my fight and it’s still very exciting,” Morrell said. “This is the first time my dad and my mom came to watch me fight, so it’s really special to have them here. It’s my night. It’s my time.

“It’s my year, and I’m looking forward to a good 2024.”

He hopes the year will include a meeting with the man he has been chasing for some time, top contender David Benavidez.

Morrell probably will have to wait, as Benavidez is pursing a showdown with undisputed champion Canelo Alvarez for Cinco de Mayo weekend and doesn’t seem interested in meeting his young rival right away. However, Morrell remains focused on the opponent he believes could make him a star.

“In 2024, I want to fight Benavidez,” he said. “One hundred percent.”

The fight won’t be on Showtime, which signed off after showcasing boxing for most of the past four decades. The premium network had partnered the past few years with Premier Boxing Champions, which recently announced a deal with Prime Video.

Many of the most memorable fights in history have been televised on the premium network.

Longtime interviewer Jim Gray spoke for many when he said after the fight, “The echoes of the past will forever be etched in our hearts as the boxers and legendary fights that took place on Showtime have left an indelible impression.

“So we take both the sweetness of these cherished memories and the sorrow of this farewell.”

David Morrell stops overmatched Sena Agbeko in two rounds in Showtime finale

Super middleweight contender David Morrell stopped overmatched Sena Agbeko in two rounds in Showtime’s final broadcast Saturday.

Showtime boxing went out with brutal knockout.

That’s thanks to gifted 168-pounder David Morrell, who stopped fellow contender Sena Agbeko midway through the second round of a scheduled 12-round bout Saturday night at The Armory in Minneapolis.

Morrell (10-0, 9 KOs) is only 25. He promised the best is yet to come.

“I’m teaching everyone who is number one,” he said. “I’m ready. I tell everybody, my team, my family. I’m looking forward to next year. For now, I feel happy. Right now, I’m going to go to my house for Christmas and focus on next year.”

Agbeko (28-3, 22 KOs) obviously wasn’t ready for Morrell, who toyed with the Ghanaian from the opening bell.

The former youth amateur star from Cuba poked and prodded, looking for openings for his dangerous power punches as Abegko backpedaled until Morrell finally found the mark.

A right uppercut followed by a short left stunned Agbeko and forced him into a corner, where Morrell unloaded a series of damaging blows to the head and body and took nothing in return.

That prompted referee Mark Nelson to jump between them and stop the fight, which saved Agbeko from taking unnecessary punishment. The official time of the stoppage was 1:43 of Round 2.

Morrell landed 68% of his power shots, according to CompuBox, an indication of how dominating he was.

The victory won’t change the way Morrell is perceived because of Agbeko’s limitations but this one was special for Morrell, whose parents were able to travel from Cuba to see him fight in person for the first time.

“Everybody came out for my fight and it’s still very exciting,” Morrell said. “This is the first time my dad and my mom came to watch me fight, so it’s really special to have them here. It’s my night. It’s my time.

“It’s my year, and I’m looking forward to a good 2024.”

He hopes the year will include a meeting with the man he has been chasing for some time, top contender David Benavidez.

Morrell probably will have to wait, as Benavidez is pursing a showdown with undisputed champion Canelo Alvarez for Cinco de Mayo weekend and doesn’t seem interested in meeting his young rival right away. However, Morrell remains focused on the opponent he believes could make him a star.

“In 2024, I want to fight Benavidez,” he said. “One hundred percent.”

The fight won’t be on Showtime, which signed off after showcasing boxing for most of the past four decades. The premium network had partnered the past few years with Premier Boxing Champions, which recently announced a deal with Prime Video.

Many of the most memorable fights in history have been televised on the premium network.

Longtime interviewer Jim Gray spoke for many when he said after the fight, “The echoes of the past will forever be etched in our hearts as the boxers and legendary fights that took place on Showtime have left an indelible impression.

“So we take both the sweetness of these cherished memories and the sorrow of this farewell.”

David Morrell’s manager Luis DeCubas: ‘David is the most talented Cuban fighter I’ve ever worked with’

David Morrell’s manager Luis DeCubas: “David is the most talented Cuban fighter I’ve ever worked with.”

David Morrell makes a strong first impression.

Luis DeCubas Sr., the advisor to so many elite Cuban boxers, first saw the 168-contender when he was shown a video of the then-17-year-old amateur’s fight against Cuban legend Julio Cesar La Cruz. Morrell lost a disputed decision but DeCubas was convinced instantaneously that the teenager could be great.

Morrell was only 5-0 in his pro career when he started working with respected trainer Ronnie Shields in Houston. Shields was stunned by what he saw from a fighter with so few fights.

It was that ability – a combination of natural gifts and years of hard work – that convinced DeCubas that Morrell was capable of fighting for the WBA super middleweight “interim” world title in only his third fight in August 2020.

Morrell (9-0, 8 KOs) easily defeated overmatched veteran Lennox Allen in that bout, winning a one-sided decision and the belt. He has knocked out his other eight opponents and expects to make Sena Agbeko nine on Saturday at The Armory in Minneapolis (Showtime).

DeCubas described Joel Casamayor as the greatest Cuban-born fighter in the post-Castro era but he didn’t have him face such a challenge with a 2-0 record.

“I would never have had Joel Casamayor fight a guy like Lennox Allen when he was 2-0,” DeCubas said. “Allen was 22-0 (actually 22-0-1), a veteran. I never would’ve done that with [Yuriorkis] Gamoba, [Erislandy] Lara, [Guillermo] Rigondeaux … but I put Morrell in there.

“Casamayor is the best of all Cuban fighters since the Castro era. I think he’s proven that. Rigondeaux was very good. [But] David is the most talented Cuban fighter I’ve ever worked with.”

What makes Morrell so special?

DeCubas cited his protégé’s boxing ability, which was polished in the Cuban amateur system. He pointed out that Morrel can hurt opponents with both hands, which has been evident in his nine fights. DeCubas compared him to all-time great Carlos Monzon … “but with better defense than Monzaon.”

And, of course, none that would matter if he didn’t have discipline.

“He has the talent but also the dedication, the drive, the desire,” DeCubas said. “That’s why he was willing to make Minnesota his home [base early in his career], him and Jamal James. He got up at 6 and ran in 30-below-zero temperatures.

“The kid is very determined. He went to Minnesota and followed the game plan.”

The first thing that struck Shields, who has worked with several Cubans, was the young fighter’s skill set but he soon realized that Morrell also was committed to getting even better.

“Once I started working with him I noticed that he was catching on to everything really quickly,” Shields said. “He’s really, really good at so many different things. … He’s determined to be the best fighter in the world.

“He loves the sport, everything related to the sport. He’s all in. That’s the mark of a great fighter.”

Of course, Morrell, 25, is just getting started. He has a perfect record and has become a top contender but he has yet to face a top-level opponent, which is required before can be considered one of the best fighters in the world pound for pound.

He certainly wants to fight the likes of Canelo Alvarez and David Benavidez, the top 168-pounders. In fact, he has been chasing Benavidez for some time now, saying anything he believes will help him lure the two-time titleholder into the ring.

He didn’t want to talk much about Benavidez in the lead up to Saturday, insisting he’s focused on Agbeko (28-2, 22 KOs). DeCubas was less restrained. He said Benavidez is “running away” from Morrell among other comments meant to provoke his fighter’s rival, who is coming off a sensational knockout of Demetruis Andrade.

First things first, however. Morrell must get past Agbeko, a hard-punching Ghanaian. Then he can continue his pursuit of bigger and better things. His handlers are convinced he’ll be ready when the time comes.

“I’ve been in boxing for 40 years,” DeCubas said. “David is one of the best I’ve ever seen [period], forget Cubans.”

[lawrence-related id=40084,36964,34129]

David Morrell’s manager Luis DeCubas: ‘David is the most talented Cuban fighter I’ve ever worked with’

David Morrell’s manager Luis DeCubas: “David is the most talented Cuban fighter I’ve ever worked with.”

David Morrell makes a strong first impression.

Luis DeCubas Sr., the advisor to so many elite Cuban boxers, first saw the 168-contender when he was shown a video of the then-17-year-old amateur’s fight against Cuban legend Julio Cesar La Cruz. Morrell lost a disputed decision but DeCubas was convinced instantaneously that the teenager could be great.

Morrell was only 5-0 in his pro career when he started working with respected trainer Ronnie Shields in Houston. Shields was stunned by what he saw from a fighter with so few fights.

It was that ability – a combination of natural gifts and years of hard work – that convinced DeCubas that Morrell was capable of fighting for the WBA super middleweight “interim” world title in only his third fight in August 2020.

Morrell (9-0, 8 KOs) easily defeated overmatched veteran Lennox Allen in that bout, winning a one-sided decision and the belt. He has knocked out his other eight opponents and expects to make Sena Agbeko nine on Saturday at The Armory in Minneapolis (Showtime).

DeCubas described Joel Casamayor as the greatest Cuban-born fighter in the post-Castro era but he didn’t have him face such a challenge with a 2-0 record.

“I would never have had Joel Casamayor fight a guy like Lennox Allen when he was 2-0,” DeCubas said. “Allen was 22-0 (actually 22-0-1), a veteran. I never would’ve done that with [Yuriorkis] Gamoba, [Erislandy] Lara, [Guillermo] Rigondeaux … but I put Morrell in there.

“Casamayor is the best of all Cuban fighters since the Castro era. I think he’s proven that. Rigondeaux was very good. [But] David is the most talented Cuban fighter I’ve ever worked with.”

What makes Morrell so special?

DeCubas cited his protégé’s boxing ability, which was polished in the Cuban amateur system. He pointed out that Morrel can hurt opponents with both hands, which has been evident in his nine fights. DeCubas compared him to all-time great Carlos Monzon … “but with better defense than Monzaon.”

And, of course, none that would matter if he didn’t have discipline.

“He has the talent but also the dedication, the drive, the desire,” DeCubas said. “That’s why he was willing to make Minnesota his home [base early in his career], him and Jamal James. He got up at 6 and ran in 30-below-zero temperatures.

“The kid is very determined. He went to Minnesota and followed the game plan.”

The first thing that struck Shields, who has worked with several Cubans, was the young fighter’s skill set but he soon realized that Morrell also was committed to getting even better.

“Once I started working with him I noticed that he was catching on to everything really quickly,” Shields said. “He’s really, really good at so many different things. … He’s determined to be the best fighter in the world.

“He loves the sport, everything related to the sport. He’s all in. That’s the mark of a great fighter.”

Of course, Morrell, 25, is just getting started. He has a perfect record and has become a top contender but he has yet to face a top-level opponent, which is required before can be considered one of the best fighters in the world pound for pound.

He certainly wants to fight the likes of Canelo Alvarez and David Benavidez, the top 168-pounders. In fact, he has been chasing Benavidez for some time now, saying anything he believes will help him lure the two-time titleholder into the ring.

He didn’t want to talk much about Benavidez in the lead up to Saturday, insisting he’s focused on Agbeko (28-2, 22 KOs). DeCubas was less restrained. He said Benavidez is “running away” from Morrell among other comments meant to provoke his fighter’s rival, who is coming off a sensational knockout of Demetruis Andrade.

First things first, however. Morrell must get past Agbeko, a hard-punching Ghanaian. Then he can continue his pursuit of bigger and better things. His handlers are convinced he’ll be ready when the time comes.

“I’ve been in boxing for 40 years,” DeCubas said. “David is one of the best I’ve ever seen [period], forget Cubans.”

[lawrence-related id=40084,36964,34129]

David Morrell vs. Sena Agbeko: Date, time, how to watch, background

David Morrell vs. Sena Agbeko: Date, time, how to watch, background.

Top 168-pound contender David Morrell is scheduled to face Sena Agbeko on Saturday in Minneapolis.

DAVID MORRELL (9-0, 8 KOs)
vs. SENA AGBEKO (28-2, 22, KOs)

  • Date: Saturday, Dec. 16
  • Time: 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT (main event later in show)
  • Where: The Armory, Minneapolis
  • TV/Stream: Showtime
  • Division: Super middleweight (168 pounds)
  • At stake: No major titles
  • Odds: Morrell 9-1 favorite (average of multiple outlets)
  • Also on the card: Julio Cesar Martinez vs. Angelino Cordova, flyweights (for Martinez’s WBC title); Chris Colbert vs. Jose Valenzuela, lightweights; Kenneth Sims Jr. vs. Alfredo Santiago, junior welterweights
  • Prediction: Morrell KO 8
  • Background: Morrell, the gifted product of the Cuban amateur system, has been pushing for a showdown with fellow contender David Benavidez and other big-time fights. And those events will come if he continues to dominate opponents. The 25-year-old southpaw has knocked out eight of his nine foes – including Yamaguchi Falcao in the first round in April – and has barely lost a round in his fast-tracked professional career. He’s a significant favorite to beat Agbeko. The 31-year-old Ghanaian has won five consecutive fights (four by knockout) since he lost a near-shutout decision against Vladimir Shishkin in 2021. His most recent fight was on Oct. 14, when he stopped journeyman Bruno Leonardo Romay in two rounds. However, Morrell is a significant step up in opposition for him. Agbeko lives in Nashville.

[lawrence-related id=36964,34129]

David Morrell vs. Sena Agbeko: Date, time, how to watch, background

David Morrell vs. Sena Agbeko: Date, time, how to watch, background.

Top 168-pound contender David Morrell is scheduled to face Sena Agbeko on Saturday in Minneapolis.

DAVID MORRELL (9-0, 8 KOs)
vs. SENA AGBEKO (28-2, 22, KOs)

  • Date: Saturday, Dec. 16
  • Time: 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT (main event later in show)
  • Where: The Armory, Minneapolis
  • TV/Stream: Showtime
  • Division: Super middleweight (168 pounds)
  • At stake: No major titles
  • Odds: Morrell 9-1 favorite (average of multiple outlets)
  • Also on the card: Julio Cesar Martinez vs. Angelino Cordova, flyweights (for Martinez’s WBC title); Chris Colbert vs. Jose Valenzuela, lightweights; Kenneth Sims Jr. vs. Alfredo Santiago, junior welterweights
  • Prediction: Morrell KO 8
  • Background: Morrell, the gifted product of the Cuban amateur system, has been pushing for a showdown with fellow contender David Benavidez and other big-time fights. And those events will come if he continues to dominate opponents. The 25-year-old southpaw has knocked out eight of his nine foes – including Yamaguchi Falcao in the first round in April – and has barely lost a round in his fast-tracked professional career. He’s a significant favorite to beat Agbeko. The 31-year-old Ghanaian has won five consecutive fights (four by knockout) since he lost a near-shutout decision against Vladimir Shishkin in 2021. His most recent fight was on Oct. 14, when he stopped journeyman Bruno Leonardo Romay in two rounds. However, Morrell is a significant step up in opposition for him. Agbeko lives in Nashville.

[lawrence-related id=36964,34129]

Fight Week: ‘Bam’ Rodriguez vs. Sunny Edwards, David Morrell, Jake Paul next up

Fight Week: ‘Bam’ Rodriguez vs. Sunny Edwards highlights a busy weekend that also includes David Morrell and Jake Paul in separate fights.

FIGHT WEEK

The little men will take center stage when Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez and Sunny Edwards face off Saturday in Arizona. On the same day, in Minneapolis, top 168-pound contender David Morrell will face Sena Agbeko. And Jake Paul returns to the ring on Friday.

JESSE “BAM” RODRIGUEZ (18-0, 11 KOs)
vs. SUNNY EDWARDS (20-0, 4 KOs)

  • Date: Saturday, Dec. 16
  • Time: 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT (main event later in show)
  • Where: Desert Diamond Arena, Glendale, Arizona
  • TV/Stream: DAZN
  • Division: Flyweight (112 pounds)
  • At stake: Edwards’ IBF and Rodriguez’s WBO titles
  • Odds: Rodriguez 2-1 favorite (average of multiple outlets)
  • Also on the card: Murodjon Akhmadaliev vs. Kevin Gonzalez, junior featherweights; Galal Yafai vs. Rocco Santomauro, flyweights; Peter McGrail vs. Ja’Rico O’Quinn, junior featherweights
  • Prediction: Rodriguez UD
  • Background: Rodriguez and Edwards will face off in a battle of skillful, unbeaten little men who are on the precipice of stardom. Rodriguez, a 23-year-old from San Antonio, made a splash when he outpointed veteran Carlos Cuadras to win a vacant 115-pound title and knocked out rugged, experienced Srisaket Sor Rungvisai in eight rounds in his first defense last year. He defended one more time before moving down to 112 pounds, at which he easily outpointed Cristian Gonzalez to win a major belt and become a two-division champ. Edwards is a light puncher but that hasn’t prevented him from dominating his opponents. The 27-year-old from London took Moruti Mthalane’s 112-pound title by a one-sided decision in 2021 and has successfully defended four times. He’s coming off a unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Andres Campos on June 10. Edwards will be making his U.S. debut.

 

DAVID MORRELL (9-0, 8 KOs)
vs. SENA AGBEKO (28-2, 22, KOs)

  • Date: Saturday, Dec. 16
  • Time: 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT (main event later in show)
  • Where: The Armory, Minneapolis
  • TV/Stream: Showtime
  • Division: Super middleweight (168 pounds)
  • At stake: No major titles
  • Odds: Morrell 9-1 favorite (average of multiple outlets)
  • Also on the card: Julio Cesar Martinez vs. Angelino Cordova, flyweights (for Martinez’s WBC title); Chris Colbert vs. Jose Valenzuela, lightweights; Kenneth Sims Jr. vs. Alfredo Santiago, junior welterweights
  • Prediction: Morrell KO 8
  • Background: Morrell, the gifted product of the Cuban amateur system, has been pushing for a showdown with fellow contender David Benavidez and other big-time fights. And those events will come if he continues to dominate opponents. The 25-year-old southpaw has knocked out eight of his nine foes – including Yamaguchi Falcao in the first round in April – and has barely lost a round in his fast-tracked professional career. He’s a significant favorite to beat Agbeko. The 31-year-old Ghanaian has won five consecutive fights (four by knockout) since he lost a near-shutout decision against Vladimir Shishkin in 2021. His most recent fight was on Oct. 14, when he stopped journeyman Bruno Leonardo Romay in two rounds. However, Morrell is a significant step up in opposition for him. Agbeko lives in Nashville.

 

JAKE PAUL (7-1, 4 KOs)
vs. ANDRE AUGUST (10-1-1, 5 KOs)

  • Date: Friday, Dec. 15
  • Time: 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT (main event later in show)
  • Where: Caribe Royale Orlando, Orlando, Florida
  • TV/Stream: DAZN
  • Division: Cruiserweight (200 pounds)
  • At stake: No major titles
  • Odds: Paul 5-1 favorite (average of multiple outlets)
  • Also on the card: Shadasia Green vs. Franchon Crews-Dezurn, super middleweights (for vacant WBC title); Yoenis Tellez vs. Livan Navarro, junior middleweights
  • Prediction: Paul SD
  • Background: Paul still has dreams of winning a world title. To do that he’ll have to gain experience against actual boxers, not fellow YouTubers or MMA stars. That’s where Andre August comes in. The 35-year-old Texan will be only the second boxer Paul, 26, has faced, following his split decision loss to Tommy Fury this past February. Paul bounced back from his first setback by easily outpointing MMA fighter Nate Diaz in August. August probably is no better than Fury was. He has won five consecutive fights since he was stopped by journeyman Eric Abraham in 2018 but he has faced no one of note and has taken part only in four- and six-rounders. The fight on Friday is set for eight rounds.

 

ALSO FIGHTING THIS WEEK

WEDNESDAY

  • Batyrzhan Jukembayev vs. Mohamed Mimoune, junior welterweights, Plant City, Florida (PorBox TV)

THURSDAY

  • Jose Sanchez vs. Walter Santibanes, junior featherweights, Indio, California (DAZN)
  • Kubrat Pulev vs. Andrzej Wawrzyk, heavyweights, Costa Mesa, California (FITE)

SATURDAY

  • Sam Goodman vs. Zhong Liu, junior featherweights, Sydney, Australia (No TV in U.S.)
  • Francesco Grandelli vs. Stefan Voda, featherweights, Turin, Italy (ESPN+)
  • Tsendbaatar Erdenebat vs. Yohan Vasquez, junior lightweights, New York (BoxingInsider)
  • Yesica Nery Plata vs. Sarah Bormann, junior flyweights (for Plata’s WBA and WBC titles), Karlsruhe, Germany (no TV in U.S.)

[lawrence-related id=36640,34158,36964,38417]

Fight Week: ‘Bam’ Rodriguez vs. Sunny Edwards, David Morrell, Jake Paul next up

Fight Week: ‘Bam’ Rodriguez vs. Sunny Edwards highlights a busy weekend that also includes David Morrell and Jake Paul in separate fights.

FIGHT WEEK

The little men will take center stage when Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez and Sunny Edwards face off Saturday in Arizona. On the same day, in Minneapolis, top 168-pound contender David Morrell will face Sena Agbeko. And Jake Paul returns to the ring on Friday.

JESSE “BAM” RODRIGUEZ (18-0, 11 KOs)
vs. SUNNY EDWARDS (20-0, 4 KOs)

  • Date: Saturday, Dec. 16
  • Time: 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT (main event later in show)
  • Where: Desert Diamond Arena, Glendale, Arizona
  • TV/Stream: DAZN
  • Division: Flyweight (112 pounds)
  • At stake: Edwards’ IBF and Rodriguez’s WBO titles
  • Odds: Rodriguez 2-1 favorite (average of multiple outlets)
  • Also on the card: Murodjon Akhmadaliev vs. Kevin Gonzalez, junior featherweights; Galal Yafai vs. Rocco Santomauro, flyweights; Peter McGrail vs. Ja’Rico O’Quinn, junior featherweights
  • Prediction: Rodriguez UD
  • Background: Rodriguez and Edwards will face off in a battle of skillful, unbeaten little men who are on the precipice of stardom. Rodriguez, a 23-year-old from San Antonio, made a splash when he outpointed veteran Carlos Cuadras to win a vacant 115-pound title and knocked out rugged, experienced Srisaket Sor Rungvisai in eight rounds in his first defense last year. He defended one more time before moving down to 112 pounds, at which he easily outpointed Cristian Gonzalez to win a major belt and become a two-division champ. Edwards is a light puncher but that hasn’t prevented him from dominating his opponents. The 27-year-old from London took Moruti Mthalane’s 112-pound title by a one-sided decision in 2021 and has successfully defended four times. He’s coming off a unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Andres Campos on June 10. Edwards will be making his U.S. debut.

 

DAVID MORRELL (9-0, 8 KOs)
vs. SENA AGBEKO (28-2, 22, KOs)

  • Date: Saturday, Dec. 16
  • Time: 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT (main event later in show)
  • Where: The Armory, Minneapolis
  • TV/Stream: Showtime
  • Division: Super middleweight (168 pounds)
  • At stake: No major titles
  • Odds: Morrell 9-1 favorite (average of multiple outlets)
  • Also on the card: Julio Cesar Martinez vs. Angelino Cordova, flyweights (for Martinez’s WBC title); Chris Colbert vs. Jose Valenzuela, lightweights; Kenneth Sims Jr. vs. Alfredo Santiago, junior welterweights
  • Prediction: Morrell KO 8
  • Background: Morrell, the gifted product of the Cuban amateur system, has been pushing for a showdown with fellow contender David Benavidez and other big-time fights. And those events will come if he continues to dominate opponents. The 25-year-old southpaw has knocked out eight of his nine foes – including Yamaguchi Falcao in the first round in April – and has barely lost a round in his fast-tracked professional career. He’s a significant favorite to beat Agbeko. The 31-year-old Ghanaian has won five consecutive fights (four by knockout) since he lost a near-shutout decision against Vladimir Shishkin in 2021. His most recent fight was on Oct. 14, when he stopped journeyman Bruno Leonardo Romay in two rounds. However, Morrell is a significant step up in opposition for him. Agbeko lives in Nashville.

 

JAKE PAUL (7-1, 4 KOs)
vs. ANDRE AUGUST (10-1-1, 5 KOs)

  • Date: Friday, Dec. 15
  • Time: 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT (main event later in show)
  • Where: Caribe Royale Orlando, Orlando, Florida
  • TV/Stream: DAZN
  • Division: Cruiserweight (200 pounds)
  • At stake: No major titles
  • Odds: Paul 5-1 favorite (average of multiple outlets)
  • Also on the card: Shadasia Green vs. Franchon Crews-Dezurn, super middleweights (for vacant WBC title); Yoenis Tellez vs. Livan Navarro, junior middleweights
  • Prediction: Paul SD
  • Background: Paul still has dreams of winning a world title. To do that he’ll have to gain experience against actual boxers, not fellow YouTubers or MMA stars. That’s where Andre August comes in. The 35-year-old Texan will be only the second boxer Paul, 26, has faced, following his split decision loss to Tommy Fury this past February. Paul bounced back from his first setback by easily outpointing MMA fighter Nate Diaz in August. August probably is no better than Fury was. He has won five consecutive fights since he was stopped by journeyman Eric Abraham in 2018 but he has faced no one of note and has taken part only in four- and six-rounders. The fight on Friday is set for eight rounds.

 

ALSO FIGHTING THIS WEEK

WEDNESDAY

  • Batyrzhan Jukembayev vs. Mohamed Mimoune, junior welterweights, Plant City, Florida (PorBox TV)

THURSDAY

  • Jose Sanchez vs. Walter Santibanes, junior featherweights, Indio, California (DAZN)
  • Kubrat Pulev vs. Andrzej Wawrzyk, heavyweights, Costa Mesa, California (FITE)

SATURDAY

  • Sam Goodman vs. Zhong Liu, junior featherweights, Sydney, Australia (No TV in U.S.)
  • Francesco Grandelli vs. Stefan Voda, featherweights, Turin, Italy (ESPN+)
  • Tsendbaatar Erdenebat vs. Yohan Vasquez, junior lightweights, New York (BoxingInsider)
  • Yesica Nery Plata vs. Sarah Bormann, junior flyweights (for Plata’s WBA and WBC titles), Karlsruhe, Germany (no TV in U.S.)

[lawrence-related id=36640,34158,36964,38417]