That was the worst night of my life. I cried and it took me a decade to stop hating Chacon. I started going to the gym right after that, to learn to fight so I could beat up Bobby Chacon.
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That was the worst night of my life. I cried and it took me a decade to stop hating Chacon. I started going to the gym right after that, to learn to fight so I could beat up Bobby Chacon.
A tough night for Alhambra to accept as well.Quote:
Originally Posted by greynotsoold
Yeah, I'm from the heart of the San Fernando Valley so it was all good for me but I still hated to see Lopez lose.
I was living in Simi Valley at that time. That was a big fight for SoCal.
After Bout Comments
Danny Lopez
Bobby was really tough inside. He was better than I had expected. He hit me with some
really good punches, but I wasn't hurt until the 9th Round.
I was at {121 lbs.} 5-days before the bout. We had to cut the last '3' Gym-Sessions out, so
that I could put on some weight. I still only came in at 123 1/2 lbs. I guess I was too light.
Bobby was just a little too strong for me tonight. He said that of he wins the WBC Championship,
he would give me his 1st Title defense. That is a great gesture of sportsmanship.
~ Danny Lopez Suffers 1st Loss ~
Bobby Chacon battered Danny 'Little Red' Lopez with a ferocious assault at the beginning
of the 9th Round, and floored him.
Moments later, after Danny rose from the Knockdown he attempted to ride out the
'Storm'. But he was met by a fierce swinging Chacon, who slammed him with numerous
right-hands, and sent him reeling across the Ring and into the Ropes where he was
defenseless.
Referee - John Thomas stopped the on-slaught at {0:48} of the 9th Round.
It was a terrific battle, with Danny Lopez holding his own thru the first 4-Rounds as
he pressed the fight, and was peppering away with fast 'left-right' combinations.
But Bobby Chacon took control late in Round 5, when he found a home for his 'Ram-Rod'
left-hand, as he jarred Lopez with left-jabs and pole-type straight-lefts from inside.
Lopez had suffered a 'slice' over his right-eye in Round 2. Bobby Chacon suffered a bloody
nose in Round 5.
At the end of the bout, Chacon was un-marked. Danny Lopez was sporting a badly swollen
right-eye, and his 1st loss of his career after '23' straight wins.
Bobby Chacon >
I came in at 128 lbs. at the morning weigh-in. I had to sweat off 2 lbs. to make weight. I thought
that it would affect me late, so I just went out early and looked to gain an edge. But Danny was tough,
and he hung with me for 4-Rounds.
Mid-way thru the 5th Round my Manager {Joe Ponce} yelled to me that he was 'fading'. He yelled,
"Go the body Bobby. Slam in the left-hand". I did, and Danny started to slow down.
The left-hand was the key to wearing him down. But, he was easy to hit with the right-hand. I caught
him coming in many times. But he was tougher than I thought, as he took them for 8-Rounds.
Scorecards after 8-Rounds >
* Referee - John Thomas ......... 6-2 {Bobby Chacon}
* Judge - Dick Young ............... 6-2 {Bobby Chacon}
* Judge - Chuck Hassett ........... 7-1 {Bobby Chacon}
http://img2.newspapers.com/img/thumb....jpg?cs=604800
Bang Tango
Danny Lopez vs. Bobby Chacon
The Climatic Round 9
{0:01} > Bobby 'bolts' from his corner and meets Danny at Center-Ring.
{0:03} > Bobby jabs at Danny's mid-section.
{0:04} > Danny moves to his left {180*}
{0:05} > Danny shoots out '2' low left-hands
{0:06} > Bobby counters with a vicious chopping right-hand to the jaw as Danny is caught flush.
{0:07} > Danny is badly stunned, and wobbles backwards to the back right Ring area.
{0:08} > Bobby steps forward, and delivers 'back-to-back' chopping right-hands into Danny's head.
{0:09} > Bobby unloads with a quick 'left-right' and 'left-right' to the head.
{0:10} > Danny 'sags' into the right-side Ropes near the back-right Corner.
{0:12} > Bobby rakes Danny with an '8-Punch' barrage.
{0:14} > Danny is badly hurt, and turns to his left and is sideways.
{0:15} > Bobby fires in a hard 'left-right' to the head.
{0:16} > Bobby continues with a left-hook and right-uppercut into Danny as he is near defenseless.
{0:17} > Danny goes down along the right-side Ropes.
{0:22} > Danny is up at the '5-Count'.
{0:27} > Referee - John Thomas completes his count, and waves to allow the fight to continue.
{0:28} > Bobby comes charging across the Ring at Danny.
{0:30} > Bobby fires in a big left-uppercut to the head.
{0:31} > Bobby adds in a straight-right to the jaw.
{0:33} > Danny backs up to the front-center Ropes.
{0:35} > Bobby slams away with a 'left-right-left-right'.
{0:37} > Danny tries to punch back, but he is getting smothered.
{0:39} > Bobby scores with a left-hook to the head.
{0:40} > Bobby rocks Danny with a 'tremendous' right-hook to the head..
{0:42} > Bobby comes back with a quick 'left-right' as Danny reels.
{0:43} > Danny turns to his left, and heads toward the left-side Ring area on wobbly-legs.
{0:46} > Danny crashes into the left-side Ropes and sags.
{0:47} > Bobby lands a big sweeping right-hook to the right-side of Danny's head as he is defenseless.
{0:48} > Referee - John Thomas calls it off, and raises Bobby Chacon's hand.
Thursday ~ August 8, 1974
Olympic Auditorium ~ Los Angeles, California
Television .......... Channel 13 {KCOP-TV}
Danny Lopez - 23-1-0 {22 KO's} ~ 125 1/2 lbs. ~ 5' 7 1/2" ~ {Age; 22 years, 1 month}
vs.
Masanao Toyoshima - 23-5-1 {20 KO's} ~ 126 1/4 lbs. ~ 5' 5 1/2" ~ {Age; 24 years, 9 months}
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~ The Skinny ~
'Little Red' Lopez is back in the Ring after only a 2+ month rest, after taking a brutal beating
from Bobby Chacon.
Danny has trained like ' banshee' for his comeback return bout, and 7-Days before this bout
his weight has dropped down to a very low {121 lbs.}.
Manager - Howie Steindler has called off the last 5-Days of Danny's gym sessions so he can
put back on some weight.
Masanao Toyoshima is a hard-hitting Nippon import, who can bang pretty good, especially with his
right-hand 'Haymaker'. He is ranked as the #2 Featherweight in the Orient.
Toyoshima is an experienced 6-Year Pro, who is coming into the Ring with '4-Straight' KO wins.
Danny Lopez >
Losing to Bobby Chacon was not as bad as you think. He's a very good fighter, who's ranked in the
Top 3 of the Featherweights. Losing to a good fighter should not hurt you that much in the rankings.
Now, if I lose to this guy {Masanao Toyoshima}, then that would be a different story. He's not well
known here, but he has a good reputation in the Orient and Hawaii. He's a good puncher for sure,
but he's no Bobby Chacon.
Thursday ~ August 8, 1974
~ Lopez Return Is No Comeback ~
Danny Lopez >
This no comeback. I didn't go anywhere. I just lost to a very good fighter who was
a little better than me.
I'm still on a mission to get a chance at the World Title for the Featherweight division. I'm
not on a comeback run. Look at who I am fighting. This guy {Masanao Toyoshima} is the
#2 Featherweight in the Orient.
If I was on a comeback run, do you think I would take on a guy of this caliber. I would have
started off with an easy opponent. Masanao can punch very hard.
If I lose, then I will worry.
http://img2.newspapers.com/img/thumb....jpg?cs=604800
~ 'Little Red' Gets 3rd Round Knockout ~Quote:
Originally Posted by Bill Paxtom
~ Lopez Floored, But Scores KO In 3 ~
Danny Lopez scored a 3rd-Round Knockout over Japan's Masanao Toyoshima last night, but
had to get up from a 3rd Round knockdown to do it.
Things went very well for 'Little Red' in the Opening Round, as he utilized his longer each and fast
two-handed attack to floor Toyoshima 'twice'.
Lopez over-whelmed the Nippon import early, and dropped him with a fast 'left-right-left' to the head
at the {1:27 Mark}. Toyoshima was up quickly, and took the Mandatory 8-Count.
'Little Red' was quickly back to the attack, and rained a series of 'lefts-and-rights' on his shorter
opponent. Lopez then dropped him again at the {2:33 Mark} with several head-punches. Again,
Toyoshima was up quickly, and survived the Round.
In Round 2, Lopez stalked his over-matched opponent. Toyoshima smartly 'bobbed-and-weaved' to
avoid the incoming punches from 'Little Red' during the first-half of the Round. But Lopez pressed,
and was able to land a good amount of left-jabs on the Japanese fighter's left-eye over the second-half
of the session.
At the end of Round 2, Toyoshima was sporting a partially closed left-eye.
In Round 3, Danny came out winging punches as he met Masanao at Center-Ring. Danny was scoring with
a barrage and had his opponent in dire straights at the {0:25 Mark}.
Suddenly, Masanao threw a wild right-hand 'Haymaker'.
The punch landed 'flush' on Danny's chin, and he flopped to the canvas on the seat of his pants. Danny was up
at the '3-Count', but looked badly hurt as Referee - Larry Rozadilla tolled off the 'Mandatory Count'.
When the action resumed, Masanao tore into Danny with a volley of punches. To survive, Danny used a poking
left-jab to keep the driving Japanese Bomber from getting in close.
By the {1:40 Mark} > Danny had fully recovered, and started to fire back with 'left-right' combinations.
By the {2:30 Mark}, Masanao's left-eye was completely closed, and he was getting 'tagged' by solid 'left-right'
punches.
Danny then 'staggered' Masanao with a hard right-hand, and had him near defenseless at the {2:40 Mark}.
Danny then unloaded with a '15-Punch' barrage of lefts-and-rights, and Masanao collapsed to the canvas.
Referee - Larry Rozadilla counted out Masanao at {2:59} of Round 3.
Thursday ~ September 19, 1974
Olympic Auditorium ~ Los Angeles, California
Danny Lopez - 24-1-0 {23 KO's} ~ 126 lbs. ~ 5' 7 1/2" ~ {Age; 22 years, 2 months}
vs.
Shig Fukuyama - 30-7-0 {18 KO's} ~ 125 1/2 lbs. ~ 5' 5" ~ {Age; 24 years, 8 months}
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~ The Skinny ~
Danny Lopez is ranked as the #6 WBC Featherweight. Danny has been promised a
Title bout with WBC Featherweight Champion - Bobby Chacon for November 1974, if he
can get by Shig Fukuyama.
Danny Lopez was listed as a {6-1} Betting-Favorite.
Shig Fukuyama is an experienced tough-banging 6-year veteran. Shig is a slashing-puncher,
who can easily cut up his opponent.
Shig is no stranger to the Olympic Auditorium, as he has had '12-Bouts' here since September
1970.
Also, Shig has won 5-of-6 bouts, with all of the wins coming by way of Knockout, including
an impressive win {TKO 10} over highly-touted Carlos Becerril on August 1st.
Howie Steindler {Manager for Danny Lopez} >
This is a good tune up bout for Danny. This guy {Shig Fukuyama} has the same style as Bobby Chacon.
He comes forward and is aggressive, and he is right in front of you.
I think that Fukuyama will give Danny a few good Rounds, and that is what we need. We're expecting
3 or 4 hard Rounds, and we are prepared for a tough fight. But Danny will get to him in the middle-Rounds
and chop him up. Danny will have him out of there for sure.
Joe Ponce {Manager for Bobby Chacon} >
This is a dangerous fight for 'Little Red'. Fukuyama is no pushover.
This guy can slash you with his punches, especially that left-hand. He delivers it upwards, and it can rip
the skin near your eye's. Danny better get him out of there early, or he's going to have trouble late.
Thursday ~ September 19. 1974
Olympic Auditorium ~ Los Angeles, California
~ Danny Lopez Stopped By TKO In 9th, Bid For Title On Hold ~
~ 'Little Red' Upset At The Olympic ~
~ Shig Fukuyama Upsets 'Little Red' Lopez ~
Japanese Featherweight - 'Shig' Fukuyama {6-1 Betting-Underdog} scored a 'major upset' as he
stopped Danny Lopez by a TKO in 9.
Before the Bell starting Round 9, 'Little Red' Lopez stumbled out to Center-Ring on wobbling legs.
Referee - Larry Rozadilla immediately called the bout over before the Bell sounded to start the
Round.
It goes down as a TKO 9 @ {0:00} win for Shigefumi 'Shig' Fukuyama.
The bout got off to a rousing start in Round 1, as both fighters traded good blows to the face
in spirited action in a relatively 'even session'.
But in Rounds 2 and 3, it was Lopez who got the better of the action, as his faster hand-speed
was the difference. 'Little Red' peppered Fukuyama's face with poking left-jabs, and fast straight
right-hands.
But the tough Nippon fighter, barreled in with hard left-hooks to the Lopez' head in Round 4, that
had the Alhambra Idol backing away.
Fukuyama kept up the pressure in Rounds 5 and 6, as he continued to land jarring left-hooks to the
head and right-hand counters through the porous defense of Lopez.
But 'Little Red' got it back-in-gear in Round 7, as he shook up Fukuyama with a series of punches to the
head. Just as it looked as if Lopez would take Fukuyama down, the tough Japan slugger came in with
a jolting right-hand to the jaw that shook Lopez. Fukuyama pounded Lopez for a good 25-Seconds
as he had taken back control over the second-half of the session.
But Lopez showed his great recuperative powers, and came storming back with a barrage to the head
at the {2:30 mark}, and pounded away over the last 30-Seconds, that had Fukuyama bleeding badly
from inside the mouth.
I don't know why I never hated Fumuyama as much as I hated Chacon and still hate Sanchez. He made a mess of O'Grady, too, until...
When he finished the O'Grady fight on the canvas bleeding from the ears I guess the hate left me.
Crazy Round 8 >Quote:
Originally Posted by Bill Paxtom
Danny came out fast, and started 'bombing' away. Danny unloaded with a barrage of lefts-and-rights that
had Fukuyama wavering along the Ropes early.
Danny landed a stinging right-hand to Fukuyama's left-eye at the {0:50 Mark}, and opened up a 'gash'.
Danny tried to move in close to unload, but he was met by a 'raging foe' who came back with a forceful rally.
'Shig' pounded Danny with a series of 'slashing' lefts-and-rights to the face that now had Danny reeling
backwards. 'Shig' kept moving forward and punching.
At the {2:15 Mark} > Fukuyama came in with a slashing' left-hook that opened up a 'bad-cut' on Danny's right
eye-brow. Then 'Shig' tore into Danny with a 'torrid-assault' of lefts-and-rights to the head that had Lopez
staggering all over the Ring.
At the Bell, Danny was nearly out-on-his-feet.
Between RoundsQuote:
Originally Posted by Bill PaxtomCrazy Round 8 >Quote:
Originally Posted by Bill Paxtom
Danny came out fast, and started 'bombing' away. Danny unloaded with a barrage of lefts-and-rights that
had Fukuyama wavering along the Ropes early.
Danny landed a stinging right-hand to Fukuyama's left-eye at the {0:50 Mark}, and opened up a 'gash'.
Danny tried to move in close to unload, but he was met by a 'raging foe' who came back with a forceful rally.
'Shig' pounded Danny with a series of 'slashing' lefts-and-rights to the face that now had Danny reeling
backwards. 'Shig' kept moving forward and punching.
At the {2:15 Mark} > Fukuyama came in with a slashing' left-hook that opened up a 'bad-cut' on Danny's right
eye-brow. Then 'Shig' tore into Danny with a 'torrid-assault' of lefts-and-rights to the head that had Lopez
staggering all over the Ring.
At the Bell, Danny was nearly out-on-his-feet.
The Ringside Physician went to both corners, to checkout the cuts over the eye's of each
fighter {Danny's right eye} and {Fukuyama's left-eye}.
The Physician allowed both fighters to continue.
In Danny Lopez' corner, they worked feverishly on the gash on the right eye-brow. Danny was
also not in good shape, as he had taken a brutal beating at the end of Round 8.
With about 10-Seconds before the Bell sounding to start Round 9, the Lopez corner lifted their
fighter up off the stool. Danny then stepped forward, and literally stumbled towards Center-Ring
on wobbling legs, as he fell into Referee - Larry Rozadilla who was standing at Center-Ring waiting
for the Round to begin.
The Referee saw that Danny was in no condition to continue, and he waved the bout over.
Scorecards at the end of Round 8
* Referee - Larry Rozadilla ....... 4-3 > {Danny Lopez}
* Judge - Dick Young .............. 5-3 > {Danny Lopez}
* Judge - Richard Steele .......... 3-3 > {'Even'}
* Associated Press ................... 4-3 > {Danny Lopez}
Danny Lopez vs. Shig Fukuyama
~ Aftermath ~
With the TKO 9 'loss', Danny Lopez lost out on his bid for a chance at WBC Featherweight
Champion - Bobby Chacon.
Danny had to have {3-Stitches} sewn on his right eyebrow by Dr. Bernhart Schwarz to seal
his bad gash.
Danny 'claimed' that he was accidentally blinded by his corner, as they got coagulant in
his eyes when they were working on the cut over his right-eye in the corner between
Rounds 8 and 9.
Danny Lopez >
When I got up, I took a step forward and my foot got tangled up with one of my cornermen.
I stumbled forward, and I couldn't see to get my balance. I was 'temporarily' blinded, and
my eyesight was 'blurry'.
The Referee {Larry Rozadilla} took one look at me, and then called it over. Even before the
Bell for Round 9 rang to start the Round. He didn't even give me a chance to start Round 9.
Howie Steindler {Manager for Danny Lopez} >
It was my fault. The ointment poured out of the tube, and it got all over Danny's forehead.
It then went into his eyes. He was blinded and couldn't see.
I guess because Danny had a real bad 8th Round, the Referee didn't want to take any chances.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shig Fukuyama required {15-Stitches} to mend the bad cut over his left-eye.
Shig Fukuyama >
It was better that they stopped it. I had Danny in a real mess at the end of the 8th Round. He
would have gotten hurt if had tried to fight me in Round 9.
David Thompson {Manager for Shig Fukuyama} >
It was smart for the Referee to stop it. Shig would have knocked out Danny in Round 9 anyway.
Danny was 'out-on-his-feet' at the end of the 8th Round. He was getting beat up, and there was
no way he was going to win.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bobby Chacon >
I don't care that Danny lost. I promised him that I would make my 1st-Defense against him, and I'm
keeping my word.
OK, yes he lost. But he was not counted out. He lost because of a bad-cut, and 'blurred' vision because
his corner got some medication in his eyes.
I'll still fight Danny. This is the fight that everyone wants to see.
Joe Ponce {Managed for Bobby Chacon} >
I said that Lopez taking on Fukuyama was a big risk. That guy has a slashing-slugging style, and he did
exactly what I thought. He ripped Danny's right-eye open with his left-hand.
Now, he will be out-of-action for at least 3-Months.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
November 1, 1974
WBC Featherweight Rankings
*** Bobby Chacon
#1 . Alexis Arguello {WBA Champion}
#2 . David Kotey
#3 . Ruben Olivares
#4 . Alfredo Marcano
#5 . Vicente Blanco
#6 . Art Hafey
#7 . Juan Jose Jiminez
#8 . Shig Fukuyama
#9 . Danny Lopez
#10. Jose Estrada
November 1974Quote:
Originally Posted by Bill Paxtom
Danny Lopez was 'out-of-action', to allow his bad gash {right eye-brow} to heal.
The Olympic Auditorium Promoter - Aileen Eaton was trying to get WBC Champion - Bobby Chacon
and to defend his title on December 14th, and against Danny Lopez conqueror - Shig Fukuyama.
Aileen Eaton {Fight Promoter} >
I would like Bobby to make his 1st Title Defense right here. I think that the match-up with
Shig Fukuyama would make for a wonderful boxing event.
My plan, would be for the winner of the Championship bout to defend against fan favorite
Danny 'Little Red' Lopez in March of 1975.
Danny should come back in January 1975, and I'm sure we could get him a safe opponent to get
him back in the win column.
Howie Steindller {Manager for Danny Lopez} >
We will be back. I want Danny to take the rest of the year off. We'll get back on track after
the 1st of the year in 1975.
2 or 3 good wins, and we're right back on the door step of getting a World Championship bout.
Saturday ~ January 18, 1975
Convention Center ~ Anaheim, California
Promoter ............ Don Fraser
Attendance ......... 6186
Gate Receipts ..... $42,525
Danny 'Little Red; Lopez - 24-2-0 {23 KO's} ~ 5' 7 1/2' ~ 124 3/4 lbs. ~ {Age; 22 years, 6 months}
vs.
Octavio 'Famoso' Gomez - 51-8-6 {30 KO's} ~ 5' 4" ~ 125 1/2 lbs. ~ {Age; 28 years, 2 months}
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~ Danny Lopez On The Comeback Trail ~
Danny Lopez is coming back after suffering a devastating loss {TKO 9} to Shig Fukuyama on
September 19, 1974 {4 months earlier}.
'Little Red' is seeking a bout with WBC Featherweight Champion - Bobby Chacon.
Octavio 'Famoso' Gomez is a cagey 11-Year veteran, who is a very good counter-puncher. Octavio
is a stable-mate of Bantamweight and Featherweight Champion - Ruben Olivares.
Octavio is coming off a big upset, where he scored a 10-Round Decision over Art Hafey only 1-month
earlier {December 20, 1974}.
Danny Lopez is a solid {2-1} Betting-Favorite here.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~ The Skinny ~
Most of the boxing pundits predict that 'Little Red' will have no trouble putting away Octavio, who is
a shop-worn over-blown Bantamweight.
The insiders have stated that Octavio's upset win over #6 WBC-ranked Art Hafey was not a big shock,
because the Canadian Fire-Plug was worn out.
Saturday ~ January 18, 1975
Convention Center ~ Anaheim, California
~ Danny Lopez Loses ~
~ 'Famoso' Gomez Pins Loss On 'Little Red' Lopez ~
~ 'Famoso' Gomez Too Tricky For Danny Lopez ~
http://img2.newspapers.com/img/thumb....jpg?cs=604800
Danny 'Little Red' Lopez' comeback-run hit another 'Bump-in-the-Road' as he was out-pointed by cragey
veteran Octavio 'Famoso' Gomez.
This is now the 3rd-Loss in the last 4-Bouts for the Fair-Haired Boy of Alhambra. Lopez will undoubtedly fall
out of the Top 10, and with it a chance at Bobby Chacon for the WBC Featherweight Championship.
'Famoso' Gomez came out by using smart tactics, by hitting and moving, and not standing still where Lopez
could deliver his lethal power.
In Round 2, Gomez 'staggered' Danny when he tagged him with a roundhouse-right to the chin. But late in
the Round, Lopez put together a short-burst that opened up a cut over Gomez' left-eye.
Lopez' best Round was the 3rd, when he was able to catch Gomez with a long left-hook, that shook the
28 year-old veteran. Lopez used a steady assortment of 'one-two' punches as Gomez was forced to cover
up along the Ring Perimeter.
But in Round 4, Gomez showed his experience, as he ducked and stayed low as Lopez fired away. Then
with cat-quick reflexes, Gomez would fire back with fast counters that had 'Little Red' bewildered.
Gomez also inflicted a cut inside Lopez right eye-brow when the landed several roundhouse hooks to the area.
During the middle Rounds {5, 6, and 7} 'Little Red' pressed with his upright-stance, but he was ineffective
with his attack.
'Octavio' Gomez with his free-wheeling style, repeatedly connected with round-house swings as Lopez moved
in. And when Lopez tried to counter, Gomez used 'nifty footwork' to scamper away.
Gomez scored time and again with '3 and 4' punch combinations, rocking Lopez to his toes.
A desperate Lopez tried to land one his lethal-blows in the later Rounds, but he was constantly baffled as he
pressed Gomez.
Each time that Lopez was able to score, he did have Gomez in some trouble. But each time, 'Famoso' would
rally back to out-punch Lopez in 'toe-to-toe' exchanges.
Scorecards
* Referee - John Thomas .......... 6-3 > {Octavio Gomez}
* Judge - Larry Rozadilla ........... 7-3 > {Octavio Gomez}
* Judge - George Latka ............. 7-1 > {Octavio Gomez}
Danny 'Little Red' Lopez vs. Octavio 'Famoso' Gomez
Danny was baffled all night. The Boxing Writers wrote, that he was swinging at a
Ghost all night long.
'Famoso', who was labeled as a journeyman, used 'Hit-and-Run' tactics, and beat Danny
to the punch time and again.
With his upright stance, Danny was no match for the fleet-footed and cagey veteran.
And even when they traded where Danny had the clear advantage, he was out-punched.
After Danny suffered a cut inside his right eye-brow in Round 4, cut-man Teddy Bentham
had to patch him up.
Danny Lopez >
He was just too tricky for me tonight. I just couldn't trap him long enough to catch
him with a good punch.
Yea, he hit me with a lot of counter-punches. But that is the penalty I have to pay when
I come in looking to land my hard punches.
Octavio Gomez >
I wasn't going to stand there and let him get set. I kept moving, and used my footwork
to dance away from him.
He has a long reach, and you can't trade with Danny or he'll take you out. You have to move
and give him angles. It is a simple formula > Hit and Run.
February 23, 1975
~ The Lopez Brothers Return To Orem, Utah ~
Ernie 'Indian Red' Lopez and younger brother Danny 'Little Red' Lopez retuned
back home to Orem, Utah where their boxing career's started.
Stan Chynoweth who runs 'Stan's Boxing Club', was the key factor in getting the
Lopez Brothers started in boxing, as Amateurs.
Danny was Stan's protégé, and he helped develop the awesome power that 'Little Red'
is famous for.
Danny Lopez >
Without Stan, I would have never reached the level of where I am today. He got me to
the Top of the Amateur Bantamweights in 1970 and 1971.
It was Stan who encouraged me to turn Pro, and to go to California. I wanted to stay
in Utah, but there was not any good sparring for me there. Stan pointed me West, and said
go to the Main Street Gym in Los Angeles.
I'm out here to relax and regroup, as I have lost '3' of my last '4-bouts'. I figured it was best
to go back to Utah, and visit with my family and friends. I want to forget about Boxing for
a few weeks, and clear the cob-webs.
http://img2.newspapers.com/img/thumb....jpg?cs=604800
~ Is Danny Lopez Through ~
~ 'Little Red' Lopez, Future On The Line ~
Thursday ~ April 24, 1975
Olympic Auditorium ~ Los Angeles, California
Danny 'Little Red' Lopez - 24-3-0 {23 KO's} ~ 127 lbs. ~ 5' 7 1/2" ~ {Age; 22 years, 9 months}
vs.
Jesus 'Chucho' Castillo - 47-12-2 {22 KO's} ~ 126 1/2 lbs. ~ 5' 4" ~ {Age; 29 years, 10 months}
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
http://img2.newspapers.com/img/thumb....jpg?cs=604800
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Quote:
Originally Posted by Bill Paxtom
~ The Skinny ~
Danny Lopez has lost '3 of 4' bouts since May 24, 1974. Also, Danny is coming of an embarrassing
'lopsided' 10-Round Decision loss to 'journeyman' Octavio 'Famoso' Gomez > 3-Months earlier on
{January 18, 1975}.
Danny has now dropped out of the WBC Top 10, and sits at #14. Danny needs a win in a big way,
as another loss may send him into a 'downward spiral' which will take him at least 1-Year to dig
out of.
Danny Lopez >
I have dedicated myself over the last 2-Months. I'm 100% both physical and mentally, and I feel
that I'm in the best shape of my career.
I have put on 4 Pounds of muscle, and I feel much better at 127 lbs. than I did at 123 lbs. I am
punching with even more power now, as I feel stronger.
I will press Jesus Castillo early, and go for the Knockout. I will put pressure on him and not give
him any room to move. But if I have to, I can go 10 fast-paced Rounds as well.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jesus 'Chucho' Castillo
Jesus Castillo is a former World Bantamweight Champion {October 16, 1970 -thru- April 2, 1971}.
The 13-year veteran has been competing since April 1962. 'Chucho' is a durable and smart boxing
fighter, who can baffle even the best fighters out there.
But at {Age; 30 years, 10 months}, Castillo has faded since November 1972, as he has only gone
2-5-0 in his last '7-Bouts.
But, 'Chucho' did score an 'upset' in his last bout, when he won a 10-Round Decision over highly-
touted Panamanian - Rafael Ortega on September 14, 1974. Ortega had been rated as the
#6 WBA Featherweight.
'Chucho' also is a former Mexican Bantamweight, and NABF Bantamweight Champion.
The draw back here, is that 'Chucho' has been idle for 7-Months, and his age is a negative factor here.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~ Betting-Line ~
Danny Lopez opened up as a {3-1} Favorite, 10-Days before the bout.
But, by fight night the Odds were 'Even'.
Thursday ~ April 24, 1975
~ 'Little Red' Lopez Scores 2nd Round Knockout ~
~ Lopez Regains Lethal Power And Stops 'Chucho' Castillo In Two ~
Danny Lopez scored a short and dramatic Knockout over former World Bantamweight Champion
Jesus 'Chucho' Castillo in '2' short Rounds.
Castillo was supposed to be a strong test for the Alhambra Knockout-Artist, as the Boxing Pundits
pointed to the durability of the near 31 year-old veteran and former Champion.
The action was rough-and-wild after the Opening Bell, as both fighters went toe-to-toe at
Center-Ring to a thrilled crowd at the Olympic Auditorium.
Castillo seemed to have a slight-edge in the exchanges, but at the {1:50 Mark}, Lopez leaned
in hard, and 'accidentally' head-butted Castillo square on the forehead.
'Chucho' was hurt and turned slightly. Lopez then unleashed with a series of lefts-and-rights,
and Castillo took a knee at the {2:02 Mark}, where he took a 'Mandatory 8-Count' from Referee
John Thomas.
The former Bantamweight Champion was able to use his experience to scamper away from the
hard-pressing Lopez over the last 50-Seconds of the Round to escape.
In Round 2, Danny came out fast, and went right after 'Chucho'. After tagging Castillo with a
'jarring' left-right to the head, Danny came back with a pin-point straight right-hand to the chin,
and 'Chucho' went down at the {0:36 Mark}.
Castillo was up at the '4-Count', and was ready to continue. Lopez then moved in, and raked over
his out-matched opponent with a non-stop attack of lefts-and-rights.
'Chucho' did his best to stay up, but he was in survival-mode as he was driven all over the Ring
for the next 2-Minutes by the hard-charging Lopez.
Late in the Round, Lopez hammered Castillo to the front-Ropes, and staggered him with a jolting
right-hand to the head. Then Lopez rained in a series of 'lefts-and-rights', and dropped Castillo at the
{2:52 Mark}.
Castillo was up at the '7-Count' but was too dazed to continue. Referee - John Thomas waved
the bout over at the {3:00 Mark}, just as the Bell sounded ending Round 2.
~ After Bout Comments ~Quote:
Originally Posted by Bill Paxtom
Danny Lopez >
I needed to win, and in a big way. I had to show everybody that I'm not through, despite
my '3' losses. I had to win, and be impressive. Another loss, and I think I would have quit.
I went after him {Jesus 'Chucho' Castillo} fast just like I said. Once I hurt him, it was just
a matter of time in setting him up, and delivering a few solid combinations. He was badly
hurt and defenseless at the end of Round 2.
Jesus 'Chucho' Castillo>
I was doing well in the 1st-Round, and was beating Danny to the punch. Then he leaned in
hard, and head-butted me in the forehead. It hurt real bad, and I was groggy. I had to take
a knee to get my senses back.
I never recovered from the head-butt. With Danny, you have to get in close to hit him. He's
really tall and has long arms, and you can't fight him from the outside where he has the range.
When I was in close, I was doing a number on him, and then he head-butted me.
Danny 'Little Red' Lopez
Many of the Boxing Pundits still recognize Danny's {2-Round} destruction {TKO 2} over
former World Bantamweight Champion - Jesus 'Chucho' Castillo on April 19, 1975 as one
his most devastating performances.
Reasons
Jesus 'Chucho' Castillo was supposed to be a strong test and a difficult opponent for Danny,
despite being nearly 31 years-old.
'Chucho' had just come off {7-Months earlier} an impressive 10-Round Decision over the
highly-touted and #6 WBA Featherweight - Rafael Ortega of Panama.
Also, 'Chucho' was extremely durable. Despite being an aged veteran {30 years, 10 months},
the 13-year veteran had only been stopped 'once' since June 1966 {8+ years and '37-bouts'}.
And that was by a {TKO 10} to future World Featherweight Champion - Bobby Chacon in
a highly-competitive bout back on April 28, 1973.
April 26, 1975
WBC Featherweight Rankings
*** Bobby Chacon
#1 . Alexis Arguello {WBA Champion}
#2 . Ruben Olivares
#3 . David Kotey
#4 . Royal Kobayashi
#5 . Octavio 'Famoso' Gomez
#6 . Art Hafey
#7 . Rosalio Muro
#8 . Elio Cotena
#9 . Vicente Blanco
#10. Fel Clemente
#11. Shig Fukuyama
#12. Danny Lopez
According to reports from the Olympic Boxing Club, Danny 'Little Red' Lopez was going to move up
130 lbs. and compete as a Junior Lightweight.
Harry Kabakoff said that he had put in an offer of $75,000 to Sam Inchonise, the Manager of
WBA Super-Featherweight Chanpion - Ben Villafor.
The proposal, was for a bout to take place in September 1975 in either Hawaii or Los Angeles.
Ben Villafor was recovering from an injury to his right-eye {detached retina} suffered in his
successful Title Defense bout with Hyun-Chi Kim on March 14th, 1975.
Saturday ~ July 26, 1975
Olympic Auditorium ~ Los Angeles, California
Promoter ........ Aileen Eaton
Danny Lopez - 25-3-0 {24 KO's} ~ 126 3/4 lbs. ~ 5' 7 1/2" ~ {Age; 23 years, 0 months}
vs.
Raul Cruz - 43-15-2 {30 KO's} ~ 126 1/2 lbs. ~ 5' 3 1/2" ~ {Age; 28 years, 3 months}
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~ The Skinny ~
This bout was being billed as a Featherweight Eliminator.
Both fighters signed contracts on Wednesday ~ July 16th. So both had ample time to
prepare.
Raul Cruz {Mexico City} was a solidly-built 'fire-plug'. Raul was an experienced 10-Year
Professional, who was a hard power-puncher that carried explosive power both in his
left hook-uppercut and right-cross.
The Mexican City Bomber was billed as having records of >
* 48-11-0 {35 KO's} and 43-11-1 {30 KO's}
Raul was coming of an 'upset' 10-Round Decision win over highly-regarded Joe Medrano
3-months earlier {April 10, 1975}.
On his ledger, Raul had scored wins over '4' World Champions >
* July 26, 1969 ............. W Dec 10 .. Rafael Herrera
* October 17, 1969 ....... W Dec 12 .. Jesus 'Chucho' Castillo
* February 23, 1970 ...... KO 7 ......... Alfredo Marcano
* May 16, 1970 ..............KO 4 ......... Lionel Rose
Raul Cruz had been ranked as high as >
1969 ... #3 Bantamweight
1970 ... #4 Featherweight
1971 ... #3 Featherweight
Raul had also captured the Mexican Featherweight Championship on December 11, 1970
and held his country's National Title up through August 29, 1971.
He did challenge for the WBC Featherweight Championship on June 3, 1971 - but was blasted
out {L KO 1} to hard-punching Champion - Kuniaki Shibata.
But, since June 1971 - Raul has been on the downside as he has gone only 4-10-1 in '15-Bouts'.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~ The Skinny 2 ~
Olympic Promoter - Aileen Eaton has stated that she has offered 'new' WBA Featherweight Champion
Alexis Arguello - $100,000 to fight the winner of the Danny Lopez - Raul Cruz bout.
The proposed date would be set for late-November 1975.
Danny Lopez has been installed as a {3-1} Betting-Favorite over the veteran Raul Cruz.
Danny Lopez >
I'll go for the quick finish. I will come straight at him {Raul Cruz} and go for the early Knockout.
If he survives my early attack and he lasts more than 5 or 6 Rounds, I'll be surprised.
If he stands and trades with me, he will get Knocked out for sure.
Harry Kabakoff {Manager for Raul Cruz} >
Danny Lopez is the perfect opponent for my guy {Raul Cruz}. He walks straight in with that
upright stance. Raul has the best right-hand cross in the Division, and nobody can take that
punch.
I wouldn't be shocked if Raul scores an early Knockout. Lopez has no defense, and can be
hit with anything you throw.
~ Danny Lopez Fights Raul Cruz Tonight ~
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July 26, 1975
Olympic Auditorium
Danny 'Little Red' Lopez vs. Raul Cruz
Exciting Featherweight Battle
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j...01800829,d.eXY
~ A Wild 1st-Round ~Quote:
Originally Posted by Bill Paxtom
Raul Cruz nearly takes Danny's head-off with a vicious right-hand to the chin at the {0:16 Mark}.
Danny is shook up as he is driven back into the back-right Ropes.
Raul Cruz is pressing hard, but Danny is able to get off with a stream of busy 'left-right' one-two's
to hold Cruz at bay.
Danny then adds in steady amount of poking left-jabs to Raul's face take control.
But Raul comes back with a hard counter 'right-left' to the head at the {1:14 Mark}. But, Danny
continues with his steady attack, and forces Raul to give ground.
Raul smartly 'bends-and-bobs' to avoid the incoming steam of punches as he tries to press.
Danny scores with a 'solid-flurry; at the {1:40 Mark}, and Raul is stunned. But the stocky-Mexican
rides out the storm and starts plugging away at the {1:57 Mark}.
At the {2:42 Mark}, Danny catches Cruz with a hard 'jarring' right-hand to the chin, and then lands
a big sweeping left-hook to Raul's right temple area.
Raul is 'stunned', and reels back into the front-center Ropes at the {2:44 Mark}.
Danny steps forward, and unleashes with a '27-Punch' barrage. Raul is ale to fend off some of the
blows as he is pinned on the Ropes, and nearly goes through them.
But, Raul makes it to the Bell. The Mexican is 'groggy' as he walks back to his Corner, at the front-right Area.
Saturday ~ July 28, 1975
~ Lopez KO's Cruz At The Olympic ~
~ Danny Lopez Gets Win ~
~ 'Little Red' Wins By Kayo In 6th ~
Danny Lopez put away a 'game veteran' Raul Cruz moments into the 6th Round last night at the
Olympic Auditorium in front of 7235 fans.
As with typical fashion, the bout was filled with good exchanges with each fighter getting rocked.
The Mexican - Raul Cruz came out pressing immediately, and 'rocked' Lopez badly with a vicious
right-hand cross to the chin at the {0:18 Mark}.
But 'Little Red' withstood the early charge of the hard-punching slugger, and turned the tide in his
favor by landed with left-jabs and quick '2-Punch' combinations. Lopez then rallied back with a
'non-stop' flurry at the end of the 1st-Round that had the smaller Cruz 'groggy' at the Bell.
Lopez maintained control in Rounds 2, 3 and 4 > as he peppered Cruz with constant '3-Punch'
combinations to the head, as well as swelling up the Mexican's left cheek.
But Cruz was determined, and kept plugging away in trying to turn the bout into a slug-fest as he
connected with occasional left-hooks to the body, and solid right-hand crosses to the chin
{his bread-and-butter punch} to jar Lopez.
Each time that 'Little Red' had Cruz in trouble, the Mexican veteran would smartly 'bend-and-bob'
to avoid the incoming non-stop flurries from Lopez.
Lopez utilized his 4" Height and 5" Reach advantage to continuously out-punch his smaller opponent,
but the Mexican showed courage and heart as he fought back after taking some hard right-hands to
the chin.
In an entertaining Round 5 >
Both fighters met at Center-Ring, and they got into a 'trade-fest' with each landing good blows. Danny
started off by landing a series of 'left-right' punches to the head. But Cruz countered with a 'jarring'
right-cross to Danny's chin at the {0:24 Mark}.
The Olympic Auditorium than started to chant "May-Hee-Co".
Suddenly Danny started to slow down, and his punches lacked zip. Cruz kept pressing, and nailed Danny
with a 'wicked' left-hook to the chin at the {0:55 Mark}.
But Danny hung tough, and rallied strongly with a 'big flurry', and backed Cruz up at the {1:00 Mark}, as
he drove the sturdy Mexican into the left-side Ropes.
Danny continued with a 'steady-barrage', and then drove Cruz into the front-center Ropes, where he looked
to be in serious trouble at the {1:20 Mark} as Danny continued with relentless attack.
Raul Cruz was 'groggy' at the {1:38 Mark}, and he looked ready to go as he was pinned on the front Ropes
as Danny worked him over up to the {1:48 Mark}.
Suddenly, Cruz worked himself off the Ropes, and came back with {back-to-back} 'left-right' punches to the
chin that backed Danny up.
Cruz then caught Danny with a left hook/uppercut and right-hand to the chin at the {2:00 Mark}, and now
suddenly Danny was 'stunned' at Center-Ring.
Raul then moved in, and forced Danny to back up to the left-side Ropes where he mauled him up to the
{2:15 Mark}.
Both fighters went toe-to-toe for the next 15-Seconds, as the 'gritty' Mexican-veteran pounded away at
Lopez.
But Danny rallied back, and suddenly had Cruz on the left-side Ropes at the {2:43 Mark}. Danny then
unloaded with a barrage, and Cruz wobbled backwards into the back Ropes. Danny wailed away on
a weary Cruz until the Bell sounded ending Round 5.
At the Bell, Raul Cruz tapped Danny in acknowledgement of a good Round.
Raul walked back to his corner with a badly bruised left-cheek.
https://sp.yimg.com/ib/th?id=JN.968z...=0&w=300&h=300
Round 6Quote:
Originally Posted by Bill Paxtom
Both fighters meet at Center-Ring and exchange. Danny then sends out some measuring left-jabs
as Raul tries to move in.
At the {0:18 Mark} > Danny flings out '5' light left-jabs, as the both fighters are at the front-center
Ring area.
Raul attempts to send out a left-jab from the outside at the {0:21 Mark}. Danny then counters
with a quick left-jab, and then delivers a 'crushing' right-hand into the left-side of Raul's jaw.
Raul crashes to the canvas and 'flat-on-his-back' at the {0:23 Mark}.
Referee - John Thomas waves the bout over at the {0:30 Mark} as Raul Cruz is 'out'.
https://sp.yimg.com/ib/th?id=JN.968z...=0&w=300&h=300
The Raul Cruz Camp and Ringside Physician - Dr. Bernhard Schwarz rush into the Ring to
revive the knocked out Mexican fighter.
Raul Cruz in on the canvas for 35-Seconds, before they can get him on a stool.
August 2, 1975
~ Danny 'Little Red' Lopez In Line For WBA Title Bout With Alexis Arguello ~
Howie Steindler - Manager for Danny Lopez said that his fighter was ready for 'newly'
crowned WBA Featherweight Champion - Alexis Arguello.
Danny is now trained exclusively by Teddy Bentham, and the Alhambra Knockout Artist
is a more polished fighter now.
His last '2' wins were very impressive Knockouts, but his opponents > Jesus 'Chucho' Castillo
and Raul Cruz were not exactly notables in the Featherweight Division. They were both aged
Mexican veterans who were at one time top fighters in the Bantamweight Division.
Howie Steindler >
We're ready for the Nicaraguan now. He has a scheduled Title Defense in Japan with
Royal Kobayashi set for October 12th.
I'm sure he will win in Japan without too much difficulty. Then, we can get him to come
back here {Los Angeles} for a bout with Danny in late-November.
Aileen Eaton has put $100,000 on the table for Arguello to defend his WBA Title against
Danny. It would be a tremendous event. It is a bout that everyone wants to see.
We're even willing to accept $40,000 to get him into the Ring with Danny.
Danny Lopez >
You know, Alexis Arguello was way behind on Points when he caught Ruben Olivares in
the 13th Round. It wasn't like he dominated the bout. He was hurt and in trouble many times
in that bout.
I sparred with him at the Main Street Gym last year {November 1974} when he was preparing
for Ruben Olivares. I wasn't even in shape, and I sparred 3-Rounds with him. It was pretty even
in the Ring, and I more than held my own with him. Maybe he had the slightest edge, but not
by much.
If you back him up, he really doesn't know how to fight. He has to lead to be effective.
Saturday ~ September 13, 1975
Olympic Auditorium ~ Los Angeles, California
Danny Lopez - 26-3-0 {25 KO's} ~ 127 lbs. ~ 5' 7 1/2" ~ {Age; 23 years, 2 months}
vs.
Antonio Nava - 21-4-1 {12 KO's} ~ 128 1/2 lbs. ~ 5' 5" ~ {Age; 22 years, 1 month}
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~ The Skinny ~
Danny Lopez is now ranked as the #8 WBA Featherweight, as is campaigning for a Title bout
with WBA Champion - Alexis Arguello.
Danny is also is now back to the #10 WBC Featherweight.
Antonio Nava is the #3 Mexican Featherweight. The 3 1/2 year Professional has a very good
right-hand, and is a strong fighter as well.
Antonio Nava is a fast starter, and comes right at his opponents.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~ Danny Lopez Scores Kayo In 6th Over Antonio Nava ~
http://img2.newspapers.com/img/thumb....jpg?cs=604800
Danny 'Little Red' Lopez scored a Kayo in the 6th Round over Mexican - Antonio Nava at theQuote:
Originally Posted by Bill Paxtom
Olympic Auditorium, but it was not as easy as expected.
The Mexican who has a power in in his right-hand, 'rocked' Lopez repeatedly during an
action-filled first 2-Rounds, as he landed jarring right-hand counters to the chin of 'Little Red'.
Lopez was able to re-group in Round 3, and started to score on his 'little-known' opponent,
as he peppered away on the shorter Mexican with 'poking' left-jabs and non-stop 'right-left'
punches to the face.
But early in Round 4, the 'power-swinging' Nava caught Lopez with a 'short' right-hook to the
chin at the {0:30 Mark}, sending Lopez 'reeling' backwards and into the Ropes.
The Mexican then moved in, and raked over a 'stunned' Lopez with a series of short and solid
power-punches, while keeping him pinned on the Ropes for a good 40-Seconds.
But in typical 'Little Red' fashion, he weathered the storm, and Lopez was able to clear his head
and worked his way off the Ropes by the {1:30 Mark}. Lopez then used his longer reach to get
some distance and avoid the hard-hitting Mexican's attacks over the 2nd-Half of the Round.
At the end of 4-Rounds, Lopez was trailing on all Scorecards, by scores of {3-1 ~ 3-1 ~ 3-1}
In Round 5, Lopez came out by using a steady attack of left-jabs, and straight right-hands to
the face of the pressing Mexican.
By the middle of the session Nava started to visibly tire. Lopez then stepped up the pace, as Nava
was forced into a defensive-mode and offered up little over the last-minute of the Round.
Lopez landed a series of combinations at the end of Round 5, as Nava looked spent at the Bell.
In Round 6, Lopez came out fast and scored 'heavily' on his tired opponent. 'Little Red' sent in
a series of 'right-left' combinations to the chin, and 'staggered' Nava several times throughout
the early-portion of the Round.
By the middle of the Round, Nava was reeling and in serious trouble. Then 'Little Red' delivered
a hard 'right-left' to the chin of Nava, and dropped the Mexican along the right-side Ropes.
Referee - George Latka counted out the Mexico City Featherweight at {2:09} of Round 6.
October 24, 1975
~ Ruben Olivares To Meet Danny 'Little Red' Lopez ~
~ Winner to get WBC Champion - David Kotey in 1976 ~
Boxing Matchmaker- Don Fraser signs up Ruben Olivares and Danny Lopez to face
each other on November 22, 1975.
Ruben Olivares is now the former 2-Time World Bantamweight Champion, and former
2-Time WBC and WBA Featherweight Champion.
Ruben lost his WBC Featherweight Championship on September 20, 1975 to African -
David Kotey. In that bout, Olivares was not in the best condition and looked lethargic
throughout a good portion of the bout.
Meanwhile, Danny Lopez has rebounded with '3' straight Knockout wins in 1975 after
losing 3 of 4.
Ruben Olivares to receive a fight purse guarantee of $40,000 against 40% of the
Gate Receipts.
Danny Lopez will receive a fight purse guarantee of $25,000 against 25% of the
gate receipts.
The Boxing Pundits have listed Ruben Olivares as a {10-8} Betting-Favorite.
Ring Magazine Ratings
*** Alexis Arguello ............. {WBA Champion}
#1 . Art Hafey
#2 . David 'Poison' Kotey .... {WBC Champion}
#3 . Elio Cotena
#4 . Danny Lopez
#5 . Leonel Hernandez
#6 . Ruben Olivares
#7 . Shig Fukuyama
#8 . Royal Kobayashi
#9 . Octavio 'Famoso' Gomez
#10. Arnold Taylor
October 28, 1975
~ Ruben Olivares Asks For 13-Day Extension ~
Arturo 'Cuyo' Hernandez, manager for Ruben Olivares has asked for the bout between
his fighter and Danny Lopez to be pushed back 13-Days, from November 22nd to December 4th.
Arturo 'Cuyo' Hernandez >
Ruben last fought a very tough fight on September 20th {losing a 15-Round Decision} to
David Kotey.
He has been resting and recuperating in Mexico City for the past 30-Days. He's up to 135 lbs.,
and to get ready for Danny Lopez in only {25-Days} is not enough time.
We're going to need at least 5-Weeks of Training Camp. As we must be in the best condition,
as another loss may end Ruben's career.
We would also like the Fight Contract Weight to be set at 128 lbs.
Ruben Olivares >
I can't take any chances with a hard-puncher like Danny Lopez. This will be a grueling fight, and
the fighter who is in the best condition will win this bout. I expect this fight to go down to the
last 2 Rounds.
I was not in good condition when I fought the African {David 'Poison' Kotey}. For this bout, I will
be better prepared. I will put in 100-Rounds in Training Camp.
Howie Steindler {Manager for Danny Lopez} >
I will agree to the postponement. But it will not make any difference. Ruben Olivares knows that
he will be in for a 'rough-night', and he wants to be ready.
I still think that Danny will take him out in 5-Rounds. Ruben is no longer a devastating-puncher.
He is an 'arm-puncher' who has slowed down a lot. He's just an average-puncher as a Featherweight.
I'm hooked.
Fight Promoter - Don Fraser said that he expects a turn-out of 10,000 - and with Gate Receipts
to reach $120,000.
Ruben Olivares is to get 40% of the Gate Receipts.
Danny Lopez is to get 25% of the Gate Receipts.
~ A Skinny Twist ~
Howie Steindler {Manager for Danny Lopez} has asked for the bout to be scheduled for 11-Rounds.
Mr. Steindler has asked the California State Boxing Commission to put in a 'special clause', that if the
bout is all even after 10-Rounds, that a 'Box-Off' 11th-Round is to be added.
The State Athletic Commission approves the request.
~ But a 'twist' within a twist >
Ruben Olivares >
I have agreed to a 10-Round bout. If the bout is 'all even' after 10-Rounds, then it should be
ruled a Draw. We can have another fight if we have to.
I'm not going to fight an additional Round. They have signed me to participate in 10-Rounds.
If they want me to fight an 11th-Round, then I have to get paid for it. They better have an
additional $4000 in a bag at Ringside, or I won't get off my stool.
http://www.josportsinc.com/item_images/1356551875.jpg
Thursday ~ December 4, 1974
~ Olivares Tests Lopez ~
The odds have moved slightly, from {10-8} to {10-7} for Ruben Olivares to defeat
Danny 'Little Red' Lopez.
At the pre-fight Physical held at the Main Street Gym, both fighters were deemed to
be in excellent physical condition.
Both fighters signed off {waived} the 126 Pound weight limit.
Ruben Olivares weighed in at 127 1/4 lbs.
Danny Lopez weighed in at 125 1/2 lbs.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~ Pre-Fight Chatter ~
Ruben Olivares >
The only way I can get a rematch with David Kotey {WBC Featherweight Champion} is
to win tonight.
I will be aggressive early, as Danny is susceptible to right-hands. If he's still around after
3-Rounds, I will switch up and box him, and work his body with my left-hook. He should
be weakened by the 8th Round, and then I'll finish him off.
Danny Lopez >
I'll press him {Ruben} early, and test his chin. I will only fight one-way, with non-stop
lefts-and-rights.
I can go the full 10-Rounds at full-speed. I know that he cannot keep up with that pace.
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