Low Blows: Open Scoring to be used, Klitschko’s next fight, and Superfighter postponed

Columns, News

– Some major fights will be using a boxing innovation as part of their fight rules. The WBC has introduced open scoring into their world and regional title fights. Under open scoring, the judges’ scorecards will be read aloud after the 4th and 8th rounds. I think this helps keep the judges honest and would create an interesting amount of intensity when a fighter knows he is behind. However, it could backfire in fights where a fighter knows he has the win after eight rounds. If his lead is big enough, he could spend the next four rounds running from his opponent causing a boring finish to the bout. Jermain Taylo’s upcoming title defense against Kassim Ouma on December 9th will use open scoring. I’m curious to see how open scoring will effect boxing matches and if other sanctioning bodies will follow suit.

– After defeating Calvin Brock, Wladimir Klitshcko said he is setting his sights on unifying the heavyweight titles. His next target is Oleg Maskaev, providing he wins his Dec. 10th bout against Peter Okhello. If Maskaev and Klitschko cannot work a deal, expect the Ukrainian to get in the ring with new WBO champion Shannon Briggs.

– WBO Featherweight champion Scott Harrison has been cleared to defend his title against Nicky Cook on Decmeber 9th. Harrison’s life is a mess. He was put in jail last month for alleged assault on a policeman. Harrison posted bail and will be allowed to defend his title. Harrison also has a history of alcohol abuse and depression.

– The previously scheduled Superfighter tournament between eight heavyweights has been postponed. After names like Calvin Brock and Sam Peter were taken off the card, tournament organizers felt it best to delay their single-day eight man tournament event. This news isn’t really a surprise as this marks the third time this event has been delayed. Early 2007 is the new time frame for the tournament.

– Roy Jones Jr and Manny Siaca will not compete in a pay-per-view fight due to contractual problems. Less than a week after the fight was announced it had already been canceled. This is probably good news as most boxing fans don’t know or care who Manny Siaca. Jones can still make money but he needs some sort of name across the ring from him. Peter Manfredo from The Contender has been a rumored opponent and is probably Jones’ best option.