Antonio Gomez ~ "El Leon de Cumana"

~ Antonio Gomez ~

"El Leon de Cumana"

The great Featherweight from Cumana, Venezuela.

One of the most 'under-rated' Featherweight Boxers ever.

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Turned professional on February 28, 1967 {Age; 21 years, 6 months}.

The 5' 6" power-pack 'boxer-puncher' had fast-hands, with great overall boxing skills. The
Venezuelan's called him ........ 'The Natural Talent'.

A pure 'gifted boxer' with the Heart of a Lion.

After 21-Months as a Professional, Antonio complied a record of 18-1-0 {7 KO's}, defeating
many other up-and-coming Featherweights in Venezuela.

Antonio's only loss was in his '8th' Pro Bout on September 2, 1967. It was by a 'freak' {L TKO 3}
punch to the neck that caused the 'loss' to Domingo Bastidas

Antonio 'avenged' that loss 5-Months later. On February 6, 1968 > Antonio won by a convincing
{W Dec 8} over Domingo Bastidas.
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November 4, 1968

Antonio's first big bout was against another 'talented' Venezuelan ~ Super Featherweight,
21 year-old {131 lb.} Gustavo Briceno.

Antonio {Age; 23 years, 2 months}, and with a record of 18-1-0 {7 KO's} was expected to have
a tough time with his 'undefeated' opponent.

Gustavo Briceno was a tall {5' 9"} lanky-armed boxer with a record of 12-0-0, but with only {1 KO}.

In this bout, Antonio was giving up {3" in Height, and 4" in Reach} and was unable to close the
distance on the equally talented boxer - Gustavo Briceno.

At the end of this 8-Round Bout, it was Gustavo Briceno who was given the Decision, as he used
just enough left-jabs to edge out the ever-pressing Antonio Gomez.

Do you take crystal meth often , or are your random threads , just because you haven't got a woman in your life ?

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Dark Lord Al

Do you take crystal meth often , or are your random threads , just because you haven't got a woman in your life ?

---

First Off,

I'm sure that you are aware that drugs are bad for you.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Bill Paxtom

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Dark Lord Al

Do you take crystal meth often , or are your random threads , just because you haven't got a woman in your life ?

---

First Off,

I'm sure that you are aware that your 'wife' had many 'men' before you.

Second, your 'cock' :p is not the first that she devoured.

So before you go on with your 'weak' comments, remember.

We know all about you.....................

---

As you state no fact , you know nothing about me.
If you hadn't noticed as you are a thick cunt , I was merely asking a question , but as you are so sensitive, its more than possible you have no woman and you take meth.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Dark Lord Al

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Bill Paxtom

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Dark Lord Al

Do you take crystal meth often , or are your random threads , just because you haven't got a woman in your life ?

---

First Off,

...................

---

As you state no fact , you know nothing about me.
If you hadn't noticed as you are a thick cunt , I was merely asking a question , but as you are so sensitive, its more than possible you have no woman and you take meth.

---

I do not take or use Crystal-Meth.

Never have, and never will.

Yes I have a woman in my life. The same woman for 24 years.

I am not 'so sensitive'.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Bill Paxtom

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Dark Lord Al

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Bill Paxtom

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Dark Lord Al

Do you take crystal meth often , or are your random threads , just because you haven't got a woman in your life ?

---

First Off,

I'm sure that you are aware that your 'wife' had many 'men' before you.

Second, your 'cock' :p is not the first that she devoured.

So before you go on with your 'weak' comments, remember.

We know all about you.....................

---

As you state no fact , you know nothing about me.
If you hadn't noticed as you are a thick cunt , I was merely asking a question , but as you are so sensitive, its more than possible you have no woman and you take meth.

---

I do not take or use Crystal-Meth.

Never have, and never will.

Yes I have a woman in my life. The same woman for 24 years.

I am not 'so sensitive'.

---

Well that clears that up then.;)

Antonio Gomez

May 30, 1969

* Antonio Gomez ~ 20-2-0 {7 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 127 lbs. ~ {Age; 23 years, 8 months}
vs.
* Gustavo Briceno ~ 15-0-0 {1 KO} ~ 5' 9" ~ 129 lbs. ~ {Age; 22 years, 2 months}

A 'rematch' of the their 1st-Bout on November 4, 1968.

This will be the '1st' 10-Rounder for Antonio Gomez.
__________________________________________________ ________________________

~ Antonio Gomez Proves The Better Man, TKO's Briceno In 9th ~

In a rematch of their early bout last year {November 4, 1968}, Antonio Gomez halted
'undefeated' Super-Featherweight - Gustavo Briceno at {2:22} of Round 9.

Fighting at a height-and-reach disadvantage, Gomez rallied in Rounds 7 and 8, as the
thin-bodied and 'lanky' Briceno faded after fighting well thru the first 5-Rounds.

In Round 9, Gomez sent Briceno reeling after slamming his body with a barrage of hooks,
and then caught his tall opponent with a left-hook to the jaw that dropped him for a '7-Count'.

Gustavo Briceno rose on 'unsteady legs', and the Referee - Victor Rojas called a halt to the
bout as Briceno wobbled backwards.

Friday ~ August 22, 1969

The Forum ~ Inglewood, California

Manager - Ramiro Machado is brining his 'highly-touted' Venezuelan Featherweight - Antonio Gomez
to California.

Antonio Gomez {Age; 23 years, 11 months} and with a record of 23-2-0 {9 KO's} will fight
#3 World-Rated Featherweight - Dwight Hawkins with a record of 51-19-6 {35 KO's}.

The bout will be on the undercard of the 'highly anticipated' WBA Bantamweight Championship
bout between Champion - Lionel Rose and #1 Challenger - Ruben Olivares.

Dwight Hawkins {Age; 31 years old} is an experienced veteran, and the Los Angeles-based
Featherweight is 'one-win' away from a World Championship bout.
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Ramiro Machado {Manager} >

"I'm bringing my fighter {Antonio Gomez} here to showcase his talents. He's as good as any
Featherweight in the World today."

"If I could, I would put him in the Ring with;
WBC Champion - Johnny Famechon or WBA Champion - Shozo Saijo, and feel confident that
he would win, and with convincing fashion."

"I expect Antonio to handle the American veteran {Dwight Hawkins} with very little trouble.
We are a decided underdog {3-1} in the Newspapers. But that is because the boxing writers
have never seen Antonio fight. They will be surprised on Friday Night."

Friday ~ August 22, 1969

The Forum ~ Inglewood, California

~ Venezuelan - Antonio Gomez 'Upsets' #3 World-Ranked - Dwight Hawkins ~

~ Venezuelan Sends Hawkins Out Of The Ring In The 10th, Wins By KO ~ ~

In the First-Bout of the evening at The Forum, and in front of a crowd of 18,549 who paid
$270,545.

Antonio Gomez 127 lbs. {Caracas, Venezuela} 'upset' Dwight Hawkins 124 lbs. for a Knockout at
2:18 of the Final Round {Round 10}.

Hawkins, a 31 year-old veteran and #3 World-Rated Featherweight was the Heavy-Favorite
at {3-1}, but he met his match tonight.

Both Hawkins and Gomez displayed fine ring-work and boxing-skills over the first 5-Rounds,
as each scored with fast jabs, and quick 'one-two' punches on the inside.

But starting in Round 6, the 'almost' 24 year-old Venezuelan started to put good combinations
together, and had the Los-Angeles-based Hawkins retreating.

Gomez had Hawkins bending over from several hard body-blows in Rounds 8 and 9, and the
end was looking near for the 31 year-old Hawkins.

Mid-way thru the Final Round, Gomez 'staggered' the fading veteran with a series of combinations,
and then had Hawkins in serious trouble after landing with a 'right-left-right' to the head at the {1:50 Mark}.

Hawkins was 'wobbling' on shaky-pins as he backed to the Ropes, and tried to defend himself.

But then Gomez stepped in, and delivered a 'solid combination' to the 31 year-old veteran's chin, and Hawkins
went though the Ropes and upon the Ring Apron, where he was 'counted-out' at {2:18} of Round 10.

After The Bout >

Manager - Johnny Flores 'immediately' retired his fighter Dwight Hawkins after this bout.

September 1969

After Antonio Gomez defeated {KO 10} #3 World-Ranked Featherweight - Dwight Hawkins
on August 22, 1969


~ WBA Featherweight Ratings ~

*** Shozo Saijo
#1 . Godfrey Stevens
#2 . Vicente Saldivar
#3 . Johnny Famechon
#4 . Fighting Harada
#5 . Allen Colter
#6 . Jose Legra
#7 . Antonio Gomez
#8 . Jose Jiminez
#9 . Alfredo Marcano
#10. Vicente Garcia

~ That is some tough 'Top 10' ~

September 29, 1969

Nuevo Circo ~ Caracas Venezuela

{#7} Antonio Gomez ~ 25-2-0 {10 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 128 lbs. ~ {Age; 24 years, 0 months}
vs.
{NR} Francisco Bolivar ~ 47-9-1 {25 KO's} ~ 5' 7" ~ 130 lbs. ~ {Age; 29 years, 1 month}
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The #7 WBA-ranked Featherweight - Antonio Gomez will take on Venezuelan countryman -
Francisco Bolivar.

Francisco is a 10-Year Professional, and is one of the 'trickiest' fighters around at 130 lbs.

Francisco is also coming off an 'Upset' 10-Round Decision win over the highly-regarded
Colombian ~ Antonio 'Kid Pambele' Cervantes only 45-Days earlier, on August 15, 1969
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~ Gomez Wins 'One-Sided' Decision Over Bolivar ~

Antonio Gomez {128 lbs.} got off to fast start in this Super-Featherweight bout, and never
looked back.

The 24 year-old World-Ranked Featherweight shook up 'veteran' Francisco Bolivar in
Rounds 2, 3 and 5 > and then cruised to an easy 10-Round Decision.

Bolivar was no match in hand-speed against the younger Gomez, but the veteran was tough
on the inside, and did land his 'fair-share' of body punches in the late-middle Rounds {6 and 7}.

But, Gomez put the 'wood' to Bolivar in Rounds 8 and 10, as he had the veteran backing away
and covering up.

Scorecards
* 98-92
* 98-93
* 98-94

Ramiro Machado {Manager} >

"It was a good bout for Antonio. Coming off that big win in America {The Forum in Inglewood, California}
on August 29th over Dwight Hawkins, I was worried about a let down."

"It was a near one-sided Decision over a real tough 'veteran'. Francisco Bolivar is no soft touch,
just ask Antonio Cervantes."

Antonio Gomez 'El Leon de Cumana'

Originally,

Antonio was an 'apathetic and cold' type of boxer, emphasizing 'The Art of Fencing' {defense}.

Though Antonio had a 'great defense' he was not a fan favorite with the Latin Boxing fans during
his first 2-Years as a Professional.

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November 10, 1969

Nuevo Circo {New Circus} ~ Caracas, Venezuela

{#7} Antonio Gomez ~ 25-2-0 {10 KOs} ~ 5' 6" ~ 128 lbs. ~ Reach; 67" ~ {Age; 24 years, 2 months}
vs.
{#17} Antonio Cervantes ~ 47-7-3 {16 KO's} ~ 5' 9" ~ 130 lbs. ~ Reach; 72" {Age; 23 years, 11 months}
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World-Rated Venezuelan - Antonio Gomez takes on Colombian - Antonio Cervantes.

Both fighters are 'managed' by Venezuelan - Ramiro Machado.

Antonio 'Kid Pambele' Cervantes had moved from Colombia to Venezuela in 1968, to get better 'money' fights,
and to improve his skills against better competition.

Th word here is, that this will be a 'close fight'.

Though 'Kid Pambele' claims to be {Age; 23 years 11 months}, some of the Colombian Sportswriters stated
that Cervantes was really 3 years older.

And, Cervantes probably had an additional 25-Bouts on his ledger in the small-clubs of Colombia on his ledger.

Colombian Sportswriter - Jaime Santoves stated that > Antonio Cervantes 'true record' was closer to > 69-9-4 {23 KO's},
and he was an 'all box' and 'little-punch' thin-rail boxer.
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~ Gomez Edges Cervantes By Decision Over 10 ~

In a battle of jabs and defense, it was Antonio Gomez who edged out Colombian - Antonio Cervantes over 10 Rounds.

Gomez {128 lbs.} giving up 3" in Height, and 5" in Reach, withstood the constant left-jab of Cervantes {130 lbs.} during
the first-half of the bout, to get inside and pound the body of the 'reed-thin' Colombian over the last 3-Rounds to capature
a close Unanimos Decision.

Throughout the first 4-Rounds, Cervantes used his left-jab like a 'broom-stick handle' to poke Gomez in the face and
around the eyes.

Realizing that he could not 'out-jab' the Colombian, Gomez slowly closed the distance and worked the body of Cervantes
with short hooks to the ribs during Rounds 5, 6 and 7 while employing a 'keen defense'.

With the bout 'close on the scorecards',
Gomez fought faster than Cervantes over the last 3-Rounds, and used his shorter reach on the inside where he stayed
busy working the Colombian's ribs with constant '2-Punch' combinations during Rounds 8, 9 and 10.

Scorecards
* 96-94 > {6-4-0 in Rounds}
* 97-95 > {5-3-2 in Rounds}
* 97-95 > {5-3-2 in Rounds}

~ January 1970 ~

'Ring Magazine' {Featherweight Rankings}

*** Johnny Famechon
#1 . Shozo Saijo
#2 . Vicente Saldivar
#3 . Fighting Harada
#4 . Cruz Marcano {Venezuela}
#5 . Antonio Gomez {Venezuela}
#6 . Kuniaki Shibata
#7 . Jimmy Revie
#8 . Jose Legra
#9 . Lionel Rose
#10. Dwight Hawkins

Many of the Boxing Sportswriters regarded hard-punching and undefeated 'Cruz Marcano' as the best Featherweight in Venezuela.
__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ _________

In mid-January 1970 >

Manager - Ramiro Machado took '18' of his fighters from his boxing-stable in Caracas, Venezuela to 'embark' on a tour of
California, in an effort to get his fighters some recognition.
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January 23, 1970

Antonio Gomez signed to face hard-hitting Mexican 'Knockout Artist' ~ Gil Noriega on February 14, 1970.

The bout will be on the undercard of the Jose Napoles vs. Ernie Lopez 'World Welterweight Championship Bout'.

Manager - Ramiro Machado signed a deal with Los Angeles 'fight promoter' George Parnassus.

Friday ~ February 14, 1970

'The Forum' ~ Inglewood, California

"Main Event" > World Welterweight Championship > Jose Napoles vs. Ernie Lopez

Attendance .......... { 17,091 }
Gate Receipts ..... { $228,417 }
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{#5} ~ Antonio Gomez 'El Leon de Cumana' {Caracas, Venezuela} ~ 26-2-0 {10 KO's} ~ 127 lbs.
vs.
{#20} ~ Gilberto 'Good Night' Noriega {Mexico City, Mexico} ~ 34-1-0 {30 KO's} ~ 128 lbs.
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Featherweight battle between two young contenders.

The 24 year-old Venezuelan {Antonio Gomez} has moved up into the #5 World-Ranking
slot, and appears headed for a Title Challenge against WBA Champion - Shozo Saijo.

The 22 year-old Mexican {Gilberto Noriega} is a pure 'knockout artist'. Gilberto goes by
the nickname of "Good Night", as whoever he hits, goes to sleep.

Gilberto is being billed as > Tthe 'new' Mexican Knockout Artist."

He's a 5' 6" stand-up fighter, who comes in straight. He's a good puncher, but has little
defense and cannot get out of the way of straight punches.

Gilberto won his first '27-Bouts', before getting stopped {L TKO 7} by Richard Sue here at
'The Forum' on November 4, 1968.

Gilberto went back to Oaxaca, Mexico to re-group. In 1969, Gilberto went undefeated at 7-0-0
with {6 KO's} and has gotten back in to the Top 20 of the Featherweight Division.

Friday ~ February 14, 1970

'The Forum' ~ Inglewood, California

~ Venezuelan Gomez Scores 'The Knockout' Heard Throughout The Forum ~

"Antonio Gomez 'flattens' Gil Noriega with 1-Punch Knockout in 8th"

World-Rated Featherweight - Antonio Gomez ended this night's battle at 'The Forum'
by catching Mexican - Gil Noriega with a single-right hand to the jaw in Round 8.

In a battle which was billed as a 'finesse-boxer' versus a '1-Punch knockout-artist', it was the
finesse-boxer who came away with the 'single-punch' Knockout victory at {2:19} of Round 8.

24 year-old Venezuelan - Antonio Gomez and Mexican - Gil Noriega thrilled the fans at 'The Forum'
with a wild shootout.

The { 17,091 } in attendance were on their feet after every Round, applauding and cheering. Gomez
had the slight-edge in Points after 6-Rounds, as he was the more accurate of the 'two' Featherweights.

But the 'upright' and hard-punching Mexican stayed in the fight, as he was clearly the harder-hitter
during close-exchanges.

The turning-point in the bout came mid-way thru Round 7, as Gomez continued with a steady-attack
and was elusive with a tight-defense, and Noriega began to tire, as he could not keep up with the
steady-fast pace.

Then Gomez caught Noriega with a hard 'left-right' to the chin, and the Mexican went down on his
right-side. He was up at the '4-Count', and was ready to fight on.

But, Noriega was not able to keep the fast-punching Venezuelan off of him, and near the end of Round 7
he went down again after absorbing a '7-Punch' combination to the head. The Mexican pulled himself up at
the '4-Count' again, and made it back to his corner as the 'Bell' sounded.

In Round 8, Gomez slowly wore down Noriega with fast and sharp 'left-jabs' to the face, that had the Mexican
blinded with the incoming fast-hand speed.

Then suddenly, Gomez stepped in and delivered a 'thudding' right-hand to Noriega's jaw that everyone in
'The Forum' heard.

The Mexican then fell face-first into the canvas, and was counted out at {2:19} of Round 8.

Scorecards at the time of the Knockout
* 7-2 > {Antonio Gomez}
* 6-2 > {Antonio Gomez}
* 6-2 > {Antonio Gomez}

Fight Promoter ~ George Parnassus

"I will do everything possible to bring WBA Featherweight Champion - Shozo Saijo here to defend his
Crown against Antonio Gomez. He's one of the best '3' Featherweights in the World today."

"This Venezuelan is an exciting boxer, and he deserves a World Title opportunity."

Tuesday ~ April 21, 1970

Plaza de Toros {Downtown 'Bull Ring'} ~ Tijuana ~ Baja California, Mexico

Attendance ...... { 6300 }

{#4} - Antonio Gomez ~ 27-2-0 {11 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 127 lbs. ~ {Age; 24 years, 7 months}
vs.
{#10} - Guillermo 'Memo' Morales - 20-4-0 {18 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 127 lbs. ~ {Age; 22 years, 6 months}
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Antonio Gomez is still fighting on a George Parnassus 'sponsored' fight card in Baja California.

The Los Angeles based Fight Promoter is hoping to get the Venezuelan a WBA Championship
bout by the end of the Summer of 1970.

But > Guillermo 'Memo' Morales is a dangerous punching fighter from Mexico City, and one who
is not to be taken lightly.

'Memo' is coming off a major 'Featherweight Upset', when he defeated #2 WBA-ranked Cruz Marcano
in his home-area of Caracas, Venezuela on February 20, 1970.

In that bout, 'Memo' blasted the highly-touted and 'unbeaten' Cruz Marcano all over the Ring,
and won an 'impressive' 10-Round upset Decision.

The 'loss', knocked Cruz Marcano out of a World Featherweight Championship bout.

Guillermo, who is managed and trained by Edwin Inca Vacero, has been promised a 'big money'
bout at 'The Forum', if he can score another 'upset' over a 'top-tier' Venezuelan Featherweight.
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~ Antonio Gomez 'Smashes' Morales In '4' In Tijuana ~

Venezuelan - Antonio Gomez over-whelmed Mexican - Guillermo 'Memo' Morales with a series of
combinations in Round 4, en-route to a TKO win at 1:53.

Gomez {127 lbs.} fighting with a 'spirited attack', used an assortment of left-jabs, 2-Punch combinations
and jolting right-hands to batter and smash an over-matched 'Memo' Morales {127 lbs.} in Round 3, to
set up his opponent for the following Round.

Morales, who came into the Ring with a 'reputation' as a vicious fighter, was left battered and beaten
in Round 4, after taking a one-sided pounding by the skillful Venezuelan.

Morales did not go down, but he was left 'dazed' in a Neutral-Corner when the Referee halted the
one-sided battering.

May 8, 1970

~ WBA Featherweight Rankings ~ ..................... ~ 'Ring Magazine' ~

*** Shozo Saijo .................................................. ........ *** Johnny Famechon
#1 . Johnny Famechon > {WBC Champion} ................. #1 . Shozo Saijo
#2 . Vicente Saldivar .................................................. #2 . Antonio Gomez
#3 . Jose Legra .................................................. ........ #3 . Vicente Saldivar
#4 . Antonio Gomez ............................................... #4 . Kuniaki Shibata
#5 . Godfrey Stevens .................................................. #5 . Alfredo Marcano
#6 . Raul Cruz .................................................. .......... #6 . Jimmy Revie
#7 . Frankie Crawford ................................................. #7 . Fernando Sotelo
#8 . Miguel Herrera .................................................. .. #8 . Hiroshi Sojo
#9 . Eder Jofre .................................................. ......... #9 . Jose Legra
#10. Ernesto Marcel .................................................. . #10. Eder Jofre

Antonio Gomez was being labeled as 'The Uncrowned Featherweight Champion'

Wednesday ~ May 20, 1970

~ Featherweights To Fight At The Olympic ~

Boxing Matchmaker - on Chargin has signed of '2' of the Top Featherweights in the World
to fight in a 12-Round bout for the NABF Featherweight Championship.

Din has signed Venezuelan - Antonio Gomez to challenge Ray Echavarria of San Jose, California
for Thursday Night ~ June 5th at 'The Olympic Auditorim'.

Antonio Gomez is the #2 WBA-ranked Featherweight, and the 24 year-old Venezuelan is
'unbeaten' with a record fo 28-0-0 with {12 KO's}.

Ray Echavarria is the #2 NABF-ranked Featherweight, and will bring in a record of 30-2-2
with {8 KO's}.

The 26 year-old Echavarria who stands at 5' 2", is built like a 'fire-plug' and is one of the
toughest fighters around in the Ring

The winner has been promised a Championship bout with the WBA Champion ~ Shozo Siajo.

This Featherweight Bot will be televised by KTLA {Channel 5} on Thursday Night, June 5th.

Note > Antonio Gomez has a reocord of 28-2-0, and it was incorrectly stated that the Venezuelan
was undefeated at 28-0-0 for the 'Press Release'.

Note > Antonio Gomez was supposed to have faced Enrique Garica set for Thursday, May 21st
at 'The Olympic'. But Enrique Garcia pulled out claiming an injury.

http://img2.newspapers.com/img/thumb....jpg?cs=604800

Thursday ~ June 4, 1970

~ Antonio Gomez Olympic Choice In Main Event Tonight ~

Antonio Gomez of Venezuela, billed as 'The Uncrowned Featherweight Champion'
will take on late-substitute - Centavito Antonio Hernandez.

Hernandez, a 21 year-old from Sonora, Mexico is a late-substitute for original opponent
Ray Echavarria, who pulled out due to a wrist injury.

Hernandez has an impressive record of 26-5-0 with {20 KO's}, and is an aggressive
puncher who has a devastating left-hook.

http://img2.newspapers.com/img/thumb....jpg?cs=604800

Thursday ~ June 4, 1970

'Olympic Auditorium' ~ Los Angeles, California

~ Antonio Gomez Wins In Unimpressive 'Split-Decision' Over Late-Sub ~

Venezuelan Antonio Gomez, the #2 World-rated Featherweight was unimpressive in winning
a 10-Round Decision over 'late-sustitute' Centavito Antonio Hernandez.

Gomez {126 lbs.} did just enough to 'not lose', but fought uninspired against a 'tenacious',
but lacking in skills opponent.

The 24 year-old Venezuelan was billed as 'The Uncrowned Featherweight Champion', but he
he fought like somebody ranked #25.

Each time that Gomez attempted to lead, he was met by a 'quick-and-hard' left-hook from
the 'unranked' Centavito Hernandez {126 lbs.}, forcing Gomez to step back.

Hernandez, from Sonora, Mexico was a 5-Day substitute, but the little known Mexican fought
hard throughout, and had the 'Olympic Auditorium' fans cheering "Vito, Vito" from the 4th Round
and on, after he tagged Gomez with a good left-hook at the end of Round 4 which 'buckled'
the Venezuelan's knee's.

Gomez was 'lacklustre', and did not fight with any 'vigor' during Rounds 5 and 6.

In Round 7, Gomez started off well, but Centavito rallied with a series of left-hooks to Gomez' head,
that put the Venezuelan back on his heels 'twice' during the Round.

Sensing that the bout was 'too close for comfort', Gomez put forth a steady assortment of left-jabs
and quick {but light} counters in > Rounds 8 and 9 to prevent an 'upset loss'.

Scorecards
* Referee - Dick Young ....... {5-4} > Antonio Gomez
* Judge - Rudy Jordan ........ {5-3} > Antonio Gomez
* Judge - Bob Dossey ......... {5-4} > Centavito Hernandez

Friday ~ June 5, 1970

Don Chargin {Boxing Matchmaker}

Despite the lackluster performance of Antonio Gomez last night, Don Chargin is still 'hell bent'
on getting a World Championship bout for the Venezuelan.

Don Chargin >
"I'm going to Sendai,Japan next month, to try an convince the winner of the WBA Featherweight
Championship bout between Champion - Shozo Saijo and Frankie Crawford to fight Antonio Gomez."

"Saijo and Crawford are scheduled to fight on July 5th. I have already talked to the Misako Kanehara
{Manager of Shozo Saijo}, and he said that 'if the money is right', they will come to Los Angeles at
the end of August, providing the bout with Frankie Crawford goes as planned and without too
much difficulty."

August 13, 1970

~ WBA Featherweight Rankings ~

*** Shozo Saijo
#1 . Vicente Saldivar {WBC Champion}
#2 . Antonio Gomez
#3 . Frankie Crawford
#4 . Jose Legra
#5 . Eder Jofre
#6 . Roberto Duran
#7 . Raul Cruz
#8 . Kuniaki Shibata
#9 . Godfrey Stevens
#10. Ernesto Marcel

Note > Look who enters the Top 10 at #6.

Also > 8 of the 11 fighters listed either were or became World Champion.

Thursday ~ September 5, 1970

'Olympic Auditorium' ~ Los Angeles, California

~ Featherweight Clash ~

NABF Featherweight Championship

* Antonio Gomez ~ 29-2-0 {12 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 125 lbs. ~ {Age; 25 years, 0 months}
vs.
* Fernando Sotello ~ 34-10-1 {21 KO's} ~ 5' 7 1/2' ~ 126 lbs. {Age; 28 years, 5 months}
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This bout was 'sanctioned' as NABF Championship Bout.

Fernando Sotello is the Mexican Featherweight Champion, as is ranked at #7 Ring Magazine.

The dangerous-punching Mexican is managed by Lupe Sanchez.

The fighters signed for signed contacts for this bout on August 28th.
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~ The Skinny ~

Fernando Sotello is coming off '3' straight impressive Knockout wins;
* December 7, 1969 ....... {KO 7} ~ Lionel Rose
* March 22, 1970 ........... {TKO 10} ~ Vicente Garcia
* August 5, 1970 ............ {KO 1} ~ Cesar Sinda

Fernando also has wins over;
* March 7, 1969 ............ {TKO 5} ~ Alfredo Marcano
* January 24, 1969 ........ {W Split-Dec 10} ~ Dwight Hawkins

And as a 'kicker', Fernando has win {W Split-Dec 10} over Antonio's older brother Pedro Gomez,
and he did it in Caracas, Venezuela > 3-Years earlier on September 2, 1967.

Thursday ~ September 5, 1970

'Olympic Auditorium' ~ Los Angeles, California


~ Gomez Halts Sotelo In '9th' At Olympic Auditorium ~

~ Venezuelan - Antonio Gomez Captures NABF Featherweight Belt ~

Venezuelan - Antonio Gomez displayed his punching-power tonight, as he demolished
Mexican Featherweight Champion - Fernando Sotelo by TKO at 2:17 of Round 9.

Both fighters were cautious early, as each was wary of the others punching-power. But in
Round 4, Gomez {125 3/4 lbs.} 'exploded' a right-hand into the face of Sotelo {124 lbs.},
sending him to the canvas, where he received the 'Mandatory 8-Count'.

But despite the 'knockdown', the Venezuelan needed '5' more Rounds, before catching
Sotelo with a 'barrage-of-punches' in the later-session of Round 9, where Referee -
Dick Young jumped in to halt the 'now' one-sided bout.

Thursday ~ October 6, 1970

Plaza de Toros {Downtown Bull Ring} ~ Tijuana, Baja California

* Antonio Gomez - 30-2-0 {13 KO's} ~ 127 lbs. ~ 5' 6" ~ {Age; 25 years, 1-months}
vs.
* Julio Cesar Segura - 27-5-2 {14 KO's} ~ 124 lbs. ~ 5' 5"

The #2 WBA-ranked Featherweight - Antonio Gomez {who's been training in Los Angeles}
travels to Tijuana, Baja California for an 'off-bout', while waiting to sign contracts for a
WBA Title bout.

Julio Cesar Segura is a 24 year-old {7-Year Professional} from Durango, Mexico who is
a capable Featherweight.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Gomez Bombs-Away In Tijuana ~

In front of 7000 fans Thursday Night at the 'Plaza de Toros' {Bull-Ring}, Antonio Gomez
blasted out Julio Cesar Segura in Round 5.

The Venezuelan was simply the better boxer here, and out-classed the ever-trying
Mexican, who had the will but not the skill.

Gomez toyed with Segura throughout, and had Segura on the canvas from a fast 'left-right'
mid-way through Round 4.

In Round 5, Gomez plowed forward and hit the Mexican with everything, finally dropping
him with a right-hook the chin, where Segura was counted out at {0:54} of the Round.

Antonio Gomez improves to 31-2-0 with {14 KO's}.

Monday ~ December 14, 1970

Nuevo Circo ~ Caracas, Venezuela

* Antonio Gomez - 31-2-0 {14 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 128 lbs. ~ {Age; 25 years, 3 months}
vs.
* Juan Collado - 28-6-2 {10 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 128 lbs. ~ {Age; 23 years, 7 months}
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ The Skinny ~

Antonio Gomez is now the 'Mandatory Challenger' for the WBA Featherweight Division.

For Antonio, this will be his 1st-Bout in his home country of Venezuela in 1-Year, since
November 10, 1969 > as he had been campaigning in California {3-Bouts} and Mexico
{2-Bouts} to get more North American exposure.

Juan Collado is a Super-Featherweight from the Dominican Republic, and is a good little
fighter who is a fan favorite because of his willingness to stay in there at trade punches.

Juan moved from Miami Beach, Florida to Los Angles in May 1970, and has had '6-Bouts' on
the West-Coast over the past 7-Months, including '5' at the 'Olympic Auditorium'.

Juan Collado is trained by none other than > Angelo Dundee.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Antonio Gomez In 'Workman-Like' Win Over Juan Collado ~

Antonio Gomez fought a steady and 'medium-speed' paced fight to win a convincing 10-Round
Decision over 'pesky' Juan Collado of the Dominican Republic.

The 'talented' and Top-Rated Feathwerweight used a steady sharp left-jab, and an occasional
right-cross to keep the visitor on the defensive throughout most to the bout.

Neither fighter was hurt during the bout, and there were only a few 'brisk-exchanges'.

The Caracas Newspapers called it in Rounds for Antonio Gomez {7-1} with 2 Rounds 'Even'.

January 10, 1971

'Billed as a WBA Eliminator'

Antonio Gomez - 32-2-0 {14 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 128 1/2 lbs. ~ {Age; 25 years, 4 months}
vs.
Ray Vega 38-7-1 {22 KO's} ~ 5' 6 1/2" ~ 129 lbs. ~ {Age; 26 years, 11 months}
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ The Skinny ~

Antonio Gomez is the 'mandatory' WBA Challenger for the Featherweight Division, but
the WBA 'mandates' this bout as an 'Eliminator', despite both fighters being over the
126 lb. Featherweight limit.

Ray 'Ray Gun' Vega is a big right-hand swinging Mexican 'slugger' who has been
competing as a Super-Featherweight. The Mexican is ranked as the #12 WBA
Super-Featherweight and #11 WBC Super-Featherweight.

'Ray Gun' has been a Professional since 1962 {Age; 17}, and the 9-Year Pro recently
scored a 'major upset] when he won by a {Majority Dec. 10} over Top 10 ranked Venezuelan
Alfredo Marcano at the 'Olympic Auditorium' on June 25, 1970.

In the 'rematch' with Alfredo Marcano, 'Ray Ray' was just barely edged out by a {Split Dec 10}
to the Venezuelan at the 'Olympic Auditorium' on September 17, 1970.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Antonio Gomez Wails On Ray Vega, Halts Mexican Foe in 7 ~

Top-ranked WBA Featherweight - Antonio Gomez used a variety of right-crosses and right-hooks
to jar his Mexican opponent - Ray Vega in the early going.

Gomez had the hard-punching and big-swinging Mexican in trouble in Rounds 4 and 5, after
landing hard right-hands to Vega's jaw.

Gomez came out with 'blistering attack' in Round 6, and soon had Vega on the deck for a '3-Count'
after catching him with a solid right-cross to the jaw. The Venezuelan continued with his dominance
for the rest of the Round, and had Vega bloodied in the mouth at the Bell.

In Round 7 the battering continued immediately, and Vega was down again after taking '3' hard rights
to the head.

The tough' Mexican rose and wanted to continue. But he was met by another barrage, and went down from
a seri'es of right-hands, only to be counted out at 0:54 of Round 7.

February 28, 1971

UPI ~ Antonio Gomez Will Fight For The WBA Featherweight Championship In Caracas, Venezuela ~

The #1 WBA-ranked Featherweight - Antonio Gomez will fight for the WBA Championship in his home country
of Venezuela, and most likely within 90-Days, and no later than May 28th.

WBA Champion - Shozo Saijo will defend his Championship for the '5th-time' when he meets Challenger
Frankie Crawford for the Championship tonight in Tochigi, Japan.

Shozo Saijo defeated Frankie Crawford by a {Majority Dec 15} last-year, on July 5, 1970 in a hotly contested
WBA Championship Bout.

WBA President - Dr. Elias Cordova stated that the winner of the Shozo Saijo vs. Frankie Crawford bout must
defend the WBA Championship against Antonio Gomez with 90-Days or the Title will be declared vacant.

February 28, 1971

~ Shozo Saijo Tops Frankie Crawford, Keeps Title ~

WBA Featherweight Champin - Shozo Saijo had to overcome a rough early going, as he was
staggered by a left-hand from Challenger - Frankie Crawford in Round 4.

But the 'reed-thin' WBA Champion from Japan took control in Round 7, as he scored with
repeated left-jabs and sharp right-hand crosses onto the ever-pressing Californian. The
Champion swept '4-of-the-last-5' Rounds to win a Unanimous 15-Round Decision, and
retain his WBA Championship for the '5th' Time.

Scorecards
* 72-70 = {5-3-7 in Rounds}
* 73-70 = {5-2-8 in Rounds}
* 72-69 = {6-3-6 in Rounds}
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Antonio Gomez > "OK, I'm next." ~

The WBA Featherweight Championship bout is set for May 28, 1971 in
Caracas, Venezuela.

Antonio Gomez >
"I've been waiting since September 1970 {6-Months}. That is a long time to
be the 'Mandatory Challenger' and then see someone else get a chance over me."

May 16, 1971

~ WBA Championship Bout Put On Hold ~

The scheduled May 28, 1971 WBA Championship Bot between Champion - Shozo Saijo
of Japan and #1 WBA Challenger - Antonio Gomez of Venezuela has been postponed.

The bout was set for Caracas, Venezuela > but the Champion suffered an arm-injury
while Training in Japan, and has asked the WBA for a 'delay waiver'.

Antonio Gomez who has been training for 5-Weeks, said that he will still fight on
May 28th at the Nuevo Circo, in appreciation of support from his home-country fans.

The Promoters are lining up a 'safe' opponent for Antonio, for a 10-Round bout.

Friday ~ May 28, 1971

Nuevo Circo ~ Caracas, Venezuela

{#1 WBA} ~ Antonio Gomez ~ 33-2-0 {15 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 128 lbs. ~ {Age; 25 years, 8 months}
vs.
{NR} ~ Vicente Garcia ~ 38-21-5 {19 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 130 lbs. ~ {Age; 28 years, 0 months}
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~The Skinny ~

Antonio Gomez is using this as a 'stay busy bout', as he is still waiting for WBA Champion - Shozo Saijo
to get into the Ring wit him.

Also, Antonio wants to get 'revenge' for his older brother - Pedro Gomez, who was 'shockingly' upset
{L TKO 6} to Vicente Garcia 2-Years earlier on May 1, 1969.

Vicente Garcia is a 28 year-old Mexican veteran, who has been fighting as a Professional for 15-Years,
since {Age; 13} in 1956.

Vicente was ranked as the #10 WBA Featherweight in June 1969, after scoring a {TKO 6} over World-Ranked
Venezuelan - Pedro Gomez.

But now, Vicente is in a 'downward-spiral', as he has gone 1-7-2 in his last 10-Bouts, including suffering
'4' Knockout losses since September 1968 {2 years, 8 months}.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Antonio Gomez 'Flattens' Mexican Garcia In One ~

Antonio Gomez wasted little time in this 'tune-up bout' and 'grudge match' with Mexican - Vicente Garcia.

The Venezuelan exploded with '2' big right-crosses to the chin of Vicente Garcia, and dropped the Mexican
for a '9-Count' just after the {1:00 Mark}.

The Mexican was in 'bad-shape' after rising, and was wobbling around the Ring in a daze, when Gomez landed
another right-cross to the chin, sending Garcia down a 2nd-time.

Referee - Justo Linares called the bout over at the {1:29 Mark} of the 1st-Round, as Vicente Garcia was out
in 'La La Land' after rising after a '7-Count'.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ After Bout Comments ~

Antonio Gomez >
"I wanted this fight badly, even though I didn't need it. I wanted 'revenge' for my brother Pedro. Now I got it,
as it was no match inside the Ring tonight."

Vicente Garcia >
"He caught me 'cold'. I have no excuses. I guess I've had too many fights. Maybe it's time to hang up the gloves."

July 1, 1971

~ Shozo Saijo To Take On Mexico's Ray Vega In A Non-Title Bout ~

WBA Featherweight Champion - Shozo Siajo will take on Ray Vega in a 10-Round
'non-title' over-the-weight bout.

The 24 year-old Shozo Saijo has a record of 28-6-1 with {8 KO's}, and the WBA Featherweight
Champion is a tenacious fighter.

The 27 year-old Ray Vega comes in with a record of 40-9-1 with {23 KO's}, and has
a reputation as a 'big' right-hand swinger.

The WBA Featherweight Champion is under pressure to sign and defend his Crown
against #1 WBA-ranked - Antonio Gomez.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Shozo Saijo Pounds Out Decision Over Mexico's Ray Vega ~

WBA Featherweight Champion - Shozo Saijo scored a 10-Round Unanimous Decision over
Mexican Super-Featherweight Ray Vega in a 10-Round 'non-title' bout.

The 24 year-old Shozo Saijo of Japan {131 lbs.} used a variety of left-jabs and right-hand leads to
the head of the tough Mexican, to defeat the visitor in a 'brisk bout'.

The 27 year-old Ray Vega {129 3/4 lbs.} came in with a reputation as a big right-hand swinger,
but the Mexican was unable to deliver his 'famed' right-hand without any regularity.

Vega was effective during the first 2-Rounds, as he got in close on Shozo and scored on the
inside with good 'left-right' combinations. But starting in Round 3, Vega soon found himself getting
out-boxed from the faster Champion.

Shozo picked up the pace in Round 3, and swept the next '4' Rounds by scoring with lightning
quick attacks, that had the Mexican visitor swatting-at-a-swarm-of-bees.

With the bout well-in-hand, and starting in Round 7, Shozo boxed safely and from the outside
as the Mexican attempted to go for the Knockout with 'wide' right-hand swings.

The action was fairly 'even' during Rounds 7 thru 10.

There were no knockdowns in the bout.

Scorecards >
* 48-45 > {5-2-3} = Shozo Saijo
* 49-46 > {4-1-5} = Shozo Saijo
* 49-44 > {4-1-5} = Shozo Saijo

{Associated Press} ~ July 2, 1971

~ WBA Withdraws Recognition Of Shozo Saijo Of His Featherweight Championship ~

The WBA has withdrawn Shozo Saiojo as their Featherweight Champion, because of his failure
to defend his crown against the 'next available' Top Contender, as per the Association's
Championship Boxing Rules.

President - Dr. Elias Cordova stated that Shozo Saijo was supposed to defend his title
within 90-Days, after defeating Frankie Crawford on February 28th of this year.

The Top Contender, Antonio Gomez of Venezuela has been in the 'Mandatory Challenger'
position since August 1970.

Thursday ~ July 15, 1971

~ WBA Featherweight Happenings ~


#1
The WBA now gave Misako Kanehara {Manager for Shozo Saijo} 48-Hours to come up with a deal for
Shozo Saijo to defend the WBA Championship against #1 Contender - Antonio Gomez.

#2
In Japan, 'a 'jubilant' Shozo Saijo was excited, as a deal had finally been 'signed' with Antonio Gomez,
as negotiations were 'haggled over' for nearly 1-Year {since August 1970}.

#3
The WBA Championship bout has been set for August 12th, and to be held in Japan.

#4
Tonight's bout {July 15th} at the 'Olympic Auditorium' between Vicente Saldivar and Frankie Crawford has
been billed as a 'WBA Eliminator' with the winner to get the next challenge of the winner of the WBA
Featherweight Champinship Bout between Champion - Shozo Saijo and #1 WBA-ranked Challenger
Antonio Gomez.

#5
The 'Olympic' Boxing Matchmaker - Don Chargin stated that he would sign up tonight's winner between
Vicente Saldivar and Frankie Crawford to face the winner of the Shozo Saijo - Antonio Gomez bout.

#6
The 'Olympic' fight promoter > Aileen Eaton stated that she was looking at December 1971, to hold the
WBA Featherweight Championship at 'The Olympic'.


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Wednesday ~ July 21, 1971

~ Willie Ketchum Likes His Boxer ~

Legendary 'Boxing Trainer', 63 year-old Willie Ketchum has been brought in to help train and
Co-Manage Venezuelan Featherweight - Antonio Gomez.

Venezuelan Manager - Ramiro Machado felt is was necessary to bring in additional
help, in getting Antonio ready for his upcoming World Championship challenge, set
for Tokyo, Japan on August 12th.

Willie Ketchom >

Antonio is a very nice goy. The only problem is that he likes to eat a little bit too moch. When he first
came to Los Angeles 4-Weeks ago on Jone 27th, he was op to 143 lbs.

Bot after 4-Weeks, I have him down to 130 lbs. He gets too big between fights, and he needs to be
on a proper diet.

I have him sparring with my fighter and 'Top Prospect' - Jose Martin Lois Del Campo. He's a 22 year-old
Featherweight, who is as good as any 126 lb. fighter in the Division. He's still learning, bot he may
become better than Antonio Gomez. He's only got a record of 15-2-0 with {7 KO's}, bot look oot for him
in 1972.

When I 'first' got Antonio 4-Weeks ago, he was a 'one-armed' fighter. Only right-hand crosses. I told him
that he had to have a good left-hand to beat the WBA Champion - Shozo Saijo. Now he's got an effective
left-hand.

Yoo know, in Venezoela they all know me. All those kids in Caracas want to become fighters, and come
to Los Angeles to have me train them. We have '17' of them right now, all living in 'one hoose' in
Los Angeles. They all train at the same Gym. We call it 'Little Caracas' when they arrive on the Morning.




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Thursday ~ September 2, 1971

Metropolitan Gym ~ Tokyo, Japan

~ WBA Featherweight Championship ~

Attendance ...... { 5230 }

{**} - Shozo Saijo ~ 29-6-2 {8 KO's} ~ 5' 8" ~ 126 lbs.~ Reach; 70" ~ {Age; 24 years, 8 months}
vs.
{#1} - Antonio Gomez ~ 34-2-0 {16 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 125 lbs. ~ Reach; 67" ~ {Age; 26 years, 0 months}
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ The Skinny I ~

Finally, after 6-Months of 'haggling' and 'negotiating', Shozo Saijo of Japan will defend his WBA Featherweight
Championship against #1 WBA contender, Antonio Gomez of Venezuela.

Shozo Saijo has been the WBA Champion since September 27, 1968 {2 years, 11 months}, and during that
span Shozo has made '5' successful Title Defenses.

Shozo's ride hasn't been an easy one, as the WBA had withdrawn recognition of his Crown due to the failure
to defend against Antonio Gomez, as he 'pulled-out' of no less than '3' previous scheduled Dates, set for;
November 1970 --- May 28, 1971 --- and August 12, 1971 {3-Weeks earlier}.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ The Skinny II ~

Antonio Gomez has been the 'Mandatory Challenger' since August 1970, has he has been patiently waiting for
this opportunity for 1-Year.

This bout will be a personal 'grudge-fight' for Antonio, as his older brother Pedro Gomez fought and 'lost' a
tough 15-Round Decision to Shozo Saijo {2 1/2 years earier} back on February 9, 1969.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ The Skinny III ~

Shozo Saijo last fought on July 1, 1971 > where he defeated {W Dec 10} Ray Vega, the same Mexican fighter
who was stopped by Antonio Gomez on Januray 10, 1971.

Shozo last defended his WBA Championship on February 28, 1971 > where he defeated {W Dec 15} the 'pesky'
Californian - Frankie Crawford in a rematch of their July 5, 1970 'Hell-Raising' bout.

The word going around, is that Shozo {with his tall-and-lanky frame} is having difficulty getting down to 126 lbs.,
as he was {131 lbs.} when he defeated Ray Vega on July 1st {2-Months ago}.

The Champion will receive a Fight Purse of { $55,000 }.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ The Skinny IV ~

Antonio Gomez arrived in Tokyo, Japan > on August 20th, so he has had 12-Days to get acclimated to the climate.

Antonio last fought on May 28, 1971 > where he scored a {TKO 1} over Vicente Garcia. Before that, he scored
a {KO 7} over Ray Vega on January 10, 1971. > So, in the last 7 1/2 Months, Antonio has gone less than a
'Full Round'.

The concern here, is that Antonio may be 'stale' and also may not have the 'timing' to reach the tall-and-lanky
Champion.

Antonio has accepted a { $15,000 } Fight Purse, plus '4' Round-Trip Airline Tickets > 'plus' the Venezuelan
Television rights, Radio broadcast rights, and an outside Referee.

On the 'betting-scene', Antonio has been installed as the {7-4} Betting-Favorite despite being the visiting
boxer.

Thursday Night ~ September 2, 1971

Metropolitan Gym ~ Tokyo, Japan

WBA Featherweight Championship

Champion ~ Shozo Saijo
vs.
#1 WBA-ranked ~ Antonio Gomez

Pre-Fight Chatter >

Antonio Gomez >
"I will win by a Knockout. I'm going to 'Kayo' Shozo Saijo. My President {Rafael Caldera of Venezuela} just sent
me a 'telegram', stating the entire country of Venezuela will be pulling for me."

Shozo Saijo >
"I am fully confident, that I'll win. But I make no predictions on the way I'll win. I hear that he is saying that
he will win by a Knockout. Well, I'll exchange 'blows' toe-to-toe if he likes. Besides boxing, I can punch
hard just as well."



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~ The Bout ~

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Round 1

Both Shozo Saijo and Antonio Gomez came out looking to establish their left-jab. Both fighters
were at Center-Ring, but the tall-and-lanky Champion was moving laterally, like a 'Cat'.

Antonio was reaching with his left-jab, and had to leap to reach the 5' 8" Champion. In one
exchange, the Champion was able to score with a 'long-and-solid' left-hand that rocked Antonio
backwards at the {1:20 Mark}.

The Champion took advantage of his 3" Reach advantage, and slight-edge in quickness.

But Antonio came back with a sharp 'left-right' to the head that got the attention of the Champion.

Round 1 ..... {5-5} > 'Even'
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

After the 1st-Round >

Antonio's cornermen {Hely Montes, Ramiro Machado and Willie Ketchum} told their fighter to 'Be Cautious'
for the fiirst few Rounds, and to focus on a tight-defense while putting on the pressure.

American - Willie Ketchum told Antonio >
"Do not reach for him. Be patient, and move in close while keeping your hands up. You have to wear him
down some, by making him work. We have a long way to go Antonio."

Round 2

For the first-Minute, Antonio did what he was instructed. The strong Venezuelan kept his guard up, while
moving in close on the 'reed-thin' Champion.

At the {1:00 Mark}, Antonio got off a good series of left-jabs, and then caught the Champion with a good
right-hand to the mid-section.

Moments later, Antonio scored with a 'triple' left-jab to the face, and Shozo 'stumbled' backwards and went
to the canvas with his feet flying up in the air towards the ceiling lights.

The Japanese Referee - Alfredo Garza did 'not' rule it a Knockdown, and stated that Shozo Saijo was
'off-balance' and stumbled, and that it was 'a slip'.

Upon rising, the Champion became more aggressive, and attacked the Challenger with a series of punches
that were below the belt.

At the {2:10 Mark}, the Referee warned Shozo for 'low-blows'.

Over the last 30-Seconds of the Round, Antonio demonstrated better technique and superior punching-power,
as he drove the Champion backwards on 'two occasions'.

Round 2 ....... {5-4} > Antonio Gomez

~ Shozo Saijo vs. Antonio Giomez ~

Round 3

~ A Round which could be nominated for 'Round of the Year' ~

The Champion - Shozo Saijo comes out fast, and 'peppers' away with fast left-jabs aimed at
the Challenger's head.

By the {0:25 Mark}, Antonio is looking to counter with wide left-hooks.

Both fighters stay at Center-Ring, and exchange with left-jabs for the next 15-Seconds.

Antonio moves in close at the {0:46 Mark}, and attempts to out-muscle the Champion.

But Shozo easily pushes Antonio off of him. The Champion is much stronger than he looks
for his 'lanky' 5' 8" thin-frame.

Shozo continues to fire away from the outside, as Antonio goes to 'ducking-and-weaving' while
looking to counter.

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Antonio sends out '2' measuring left-hands at the {0:52 Mark}.

Shozo steps forward, and comes in with a solid 'left-right' to the Challenger's chin. Antonio moves
backwards, to the back Ropes.

The Metropolitan Gym of { 5230 } erupt with 'roars' for their Hero.

As Antonio moves the back Ropes, the Champion is coming in with his hands 'low'.

Shozo attempts a right-hand lead, just as Antonio 'unloads' with a left-hook. The left-hook bounces off
of the Champion's jaw, and sends Shozo wobbling to his right and into the back-right Ropes at the {1:04 Mark}.

The action moves to the back-right Corner, and both trade. Antonio 'digs' in a heavy 'left-right-left' into the
Champion's mid-section at the {1:08 Mark}.

Shozo counters with a hard left-hook into Antonio's head.

But Antonio comes back with a 'wicked ass' short right-hook to the Champion's chin at the {1:10 Mark}.

Shozo's legs buckle like a 'cheap' folding-chair, and 'the Champion goes down' near the back-right Corner. Shozo gets
up at the '2-Count', and walks around holding his sides, as he was affected by the body-punches as well.

After taking the 'Mandatory 8-Count', Shozo is ready to continue at the {1:20 Mark}.

The Champion shows his 'toughness' and meets Antonio at Center-Ring, where they both exchange. Antonio
gets off with a 'left-right-left'. But Shozo counters with a good 'left-right' at the {1:26 Mark}.

Antonio counters with a good left-hook to the Champion's chin, which shakes Shozo and sends him backwards
'on-his-heels' and towards the right-side of the Ring.

Antonio moves in, as they both 'slug away' at each other at the {1:30 Mark}. Shozo fires in with a 'big' right-hand.

Antonio counters with a sharp 'left-right' to the head, and Shozo is driven across the Ring to the left-side area.
Antonio literally chases the Champion who is wobbly again, and slams in a hard 'right-left' to the head at the
{1:34 Mark}.

Antonio slams in with '2' right-uppercuts that snaps the Champion's head at the {1:37 Mark}. But the Champion
will not quit, and fires back with a hard 'right-left-right' as he moves to Center-Ring.

Antonio ducks low, and 'digs' in with a hard left-hook to Shozo's mid-section.

Shozo counters with a 'good' right-hand to the jaw, which forces Antonio to bend low. Antonio comes back
with a 'left-right' as the action is fast-paced.

Shozo 'sizes up' Antonio, and comes back with a 'fast' left-right to the head at the {1:41 Mark}.

Then the Champion unloads with a 'jarring' left-right to Antonio's head which 'stuns' him. Shozo then adds in a
'wicked' left-hook to Antonio's mid-section.

Antonio is 'hurt' and wobbles at Center-Ring at the {1:44 Mark}.

The Metropolitan Gym 'erupts' with roars.

Shozo then steps in, and delivers a hard 'left-right' underneath, as Antonio backs into the front Ropes at the {1:46 Mark}.

Then the Champion adds in a 'vicious' right-hook to Antonio's chin which snaps his head sideways at the {1:47 Mark}.

Amazingly, Antonio counters with a 'solid' left-hook the Champion's jaw, and then comes back with a 'left-right' to
the body.

Antonio moves to his right, to the front-right Ring area. Shozo now 'goes for broke', and whips in 'big-wide'
hooks from the outside at the {1:50 Mark}.

Antonio gets 'nailed', and stumbles back to the Ropes at the {1:51 Mark}.

The Champion continues to fire, and comes in with a left-uppercut, and follows with a 'left-right' to the head.

At the {1:54 Mark}, Antonio is in 'big trouble' as he is pinned on the front-right Ropes.

Shozo then 'missed' with '2' left-hooks, and Antonio tried to get off the Ropes.

But Shozo caught Antonio 'flush-on-the-chin' with another left-hook, which drove him back on the front Ropes
at the {1:57 Mark}.

Shozo continues with his assault, and slams the 'stunned' Challenger with a right to the mid-section, and then
a left to the body at the {1:59 Mark}.

The Champion is still going, and 'misses' with a right-hook, but catches Antonio with a solid 'left-right' to the jaw,
as the Challenger 'reels' on the front Ropes.

At the {2:02 Mark} > the Metropolitan Gym fans { 5230 } are going crazy.

At the {2:04 Mark} > Antonio finally gets off the Ropes, but he is 'groggy' as he moves out to Center-Ring.

The Champion then takes 'a second' to reset, and then moves in. Antonio then backs up to the back-right Corner
at the {2:07 Mark}.

At the {2:10 Mark} > each Exchange left-hooks to the body.

At the {2:11 Mark} > Shozo comes back with a 'fast' left-right to Antonio's head.

Then out if nowhere, Antonio slams a 'big' right-cross into the Champion's jaw at the {2:13 Mark}, which 'stuns'
the Shozo.

The Champion immediately backs up across the Ring to the left-side Ring area.

Antonio moves out, and both trade left-hands, as Shozo circles to his right 180* at the {2:20 Mark}.

The Champion, {who is still 'stunned'} goes to circling and dancing, while staying outside to 'clear-his-head'.

The Challenger patiently stalks Shozo for the next 15-Seconds, as the Champion keeps his distance.

At the [2:39 Mark}, Antonio fires in a 'quick' right-hand lead to Shozo's head.

Both fighters move to Center-Ring at the {2:42 Mark}.

Both trade left-jabs at the {2:47 Mark}.

At the {2:49 Mark}, Antonio attempts a big right-uppercut from way outside.

Shozo counters with a left-hook to the head, and circles 180* to the left-side of Center-Ring.

Shozo then moves in close at the {2:54 Mark}, and is looking to 'unload-a-bomb'.

Shozo scores with a 'pin-point' right-hand lead to the jaw, and Antonio is 'shaken' at the {2:55 Mark},
as he backs up to the front Ropes.

But again, Antonio comes back with a left-hook to the Champion's mid-section.

Shozo counters with another right-hand to the head.

But again, Antonio comes back with a 'big' right-hand to the body, and then 'whips' in a solid left-hook
to the Champion's jaw at the {2:59 Mark}.

The Champion is 'wobbled' just as the Bell sounds ending Round 3.

Round 3 .......... {5-4| > Antonio Gomez