Danny Green signs to fight BJ Flores
IBO Cruiserweight titlist Danny Green will put the jewels on the line on 17 November against contender BJ Flores. Green was awarded the title in a bout with Julio Cesar Dominguez in 2009.
“He [Flores] is an undefeated fighter, what more could you ask for. We are giving Australian fans what they want to see. With his size, speed and power, it’s definitely going to be a big test. I’ve never faced anyone inside a boxing ring that big," Green said in the fight's presser.
The fight with Flores (24-0, 15 KOs) is the result of pressure that has been placed on Green after a controversial first round TKO of Roy Jones Jr. and an even more controversial knockout of Paul Briggs. The fight with Briggs drew incredible criticism after Briggs, who weighed eight pounds over the agreed upon weight, went down for the count of 10 after a jab grazed his forehead 29 seconds into the fight. Many complained that Briggs had taken a dive, and even Green called him a “dog” before changing his mind and saying he felt he really hurt Briggs.
Flores recently got out of a deal with Square Ring Promotions, which is owned by Roy Jones Jr., and is challenging the man who beat his former boss in one round. Green’s reputation is soaring high, but the fight with Jones was not without its own controversy. Jones claimed that Green was using illegal hand wraps, and wanted the fight ruled a no-contest when Green refused to take his gloves off after the fight. An investigation is ongoing. As well, Jones demanded a rematch, which was stipulated in the fight’s contract, but was refused by Green, who was subsequently sued for the breach.
Green has been fighting his bouts at less than 185lb, but will have his hands full with Flores, who could fight as a heavyweight at 6ft 2in with an 80in reach.
If Flores is in shape and motivated, the bout could be unexpectedly close. Green has a decent punch, but has never really had to face a good technician. What Flores lacks in excitement he makes up for in boxing efficiency. But he’ll have to deal with the fact that he hasn’t fought since last August, and that could lead to rust.
The two will fight at the Challenge Stadium in Perth, Australia.
Tags: