During his career as a fighter former Heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis just about did it all. From fighting the world over, winning multiple titles, facing the most dangerous competition available and avenging his only losses it is clear that the London native?s journey in the sport is one that has certainly been hall of fame worthy.
Lewis also conducts himself with class outside of the ropes and is a definite credit to a sport that is filled with many interesting characters. One thing Lewis was not, however, was a suitable commentator, at least according to HBO?s standards. Earlier this month it was announced that the network had failed to renew his contract, thus leaving much speculation as to what direction they will be going in regarding future Boxing After Dark episodes.
It was first rumored that one of the world?s most renowned trainers, Freddie Roach, was in line to fill that position but those reports were apparently premature. It was also noted that HBO had also shown interest in both Floyd Mayweather Jr. and the extremely knowledgeable Naazim Richardson while the public has shown support to the network?s unofficial judge Harold Lederman and former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson.
Other boxing luminaries have stepped forward themselves to show their own interest in the position and it certainly is a tough choice to make. Some insiders have also pointed out that HBO may decide to stick with the two-man announcing team of Bob Pappa and Max Kellerman for future contests. The two work well together and did a fine job of covering the May 15th Amir Khan-Paulie Malignaggi card from the theatre in Madison Square Garden a few weeks back.
When taking a look at all of the options there is much that stands out about some of the above-mentioned participants?
Floyd Mayweather Jr.
Love him or hate him Floyd Mayweather Jr. seems to be a pretty bright individual and an obvious student of the game. Floyd has turned people off with his vocal nature and boasting of his abilities but his braggadocious ways comes hand in hand with a sharp mind and a quick wit.
Floyd has also been involved in the sport since he practically a newborn and has learned several nuances of the game. Floyd is also one of the top two fighters in the world and imagining him calling the fights brings back memories of when another superstar, Roy Jones, was guiding the ship. Floyd definitely brings the star factor to the table but it remains to be seen whether or not his ego would spill out of control.
Naazim Richardson
Of all the people I have interviewed over years, trainer Naazim Richardson was one of the most enjoyable. The North Philadelphia native?s rugged demeanor doesn?t mask the fact that he has a deep knowledge of the sport and everything it has encompassed. Richardson seems to be at his best when he is giving analogies and comparing the boxing game to other facets of the world and he would surely bring a lot to the table.
Richardson is currently the chief trainer for Bernard Hopkins, former Cruiserweight champion Steve Cunningham, and Shane Mosley among others. There are still question marks surrounding the availability of his schedule and despite his insight to the sport it remains to be seen whether or not he could produce the same kind of charisma behind the cameras.
Freddie Roach
Ask anyone who has seen any of Manny Pacquiao?s 24/7 appearances and they will sure to spot out the intellect and blunt nature of Roach, arguably the most renown trainer in the game today. While Pacquiao himself has strayed away from getting into much trash talk himself it has seemed to be Roach who has often stood up for his fighter while sometimes having to get personal. Roach was a solid fighter in his own right and learned much of the game from the great Eddie Futch. His expertise could be a fine fit.
If there are any red flags surrounding the trainer it would be the fact that he has a stable of talented fighters to tend to, from the likes of Pacquiao, Amir Khan, Vanes Martirosyan and others. Roach has also been battling Parkinson?s and it is unknown how that would affect his delivery while calling the action of a bout.
Nate Campbell
If there has ever been anyone who likes to talk it certainly could be Jacksonville, Florida native Nate ?The Galaxxy Warrior? Campbell. The former lightweight champion leaves no stone unturned when discussing all topics in life and would probably have success as a comedian if given the chance. Campbell?s charisma is a given and he speaks with much passion and insight when discussing all avenues associated with the sport.
Campbell had a brief stint as an ESPN analyst in the Fall of 2008, as Teddy Atlas was busy covering the Olympics, and did an excellent job of giving a fighter?s perspective. Campbell would likely do well behind HBO?s cameras and has shown interest in the position on his personal Facebook page but he lacks the star power of a Mayweather that the network may be in search of.
Harold Lederman
For over 20 years audiences have grown fond of Harold Lederman as HBO?s ?unofficial? ringside judge. With a high-pitched voice that is unmistakable and an unmatched enthusiasm for the sport, the New York native has endeared himself to many and there is currently has been much clamoring on the social networking site Facebook for Lederman to fill the void.
Lederman is as likeable as they come and has shown himself to be unbiased and accurate with his ringside scoring over the years. One knock some have is that Harold would serve us best to stay put with his role as a judge because perhaps he would be out of his element as an announcer.
Mike Tyson
It takes special kind of fighter to stay in the public?s eye years after their best days and ?Iron? Mike Tyson is that kind of person. As a heavyweight champion of the world Tyson fascinated everyone with his explosive knockout power and his troubled life outside of the ring only further enhanced his intrigue.
Anytime Tyson?s name is mentioned people still notice to this day and some have expressed interest in him filling the HBO role. In the past Tyson has actually conducted himself very well as an analyst for Showtime and he has a deep understanding of the subtleties and history of the sport.
John Scully
A former title challenger in his own right, you will be hard pressed to find anyone with as much love for the sport as ?The Iceman? John Scully. The Connecticut resident can now be found training fighters and has played a huge role in the development as such pugilists as Chad Dawson, Matt Godfrey, and former champion Jose Antonio Rivera.
Playing the role of an analyst is like second nature to Scully and he can often be found on ESPN Classic alongside Joe Tessitore calling fights from the past. Scully also has work for ESPN for pre and post fight coverage of Manny Pacquiao?s bouts with Miguel Cotto and Joshua Clottey. To read about Scully?s experiences please click HERE.
Stay tuned in the coming days for insider reaction to the recent HBO announcing position to hear what everyone in the boxing world is saying?
For a closer look at Nate Campbell, Floyd Mayweather, Naazim Richardson, Freddie Roach and other boxing luminaries please check out the ?Boxing in pictures? image directory below?
