Eddie Hearn looks at how a more scientific approach is being used in boxing gyms around the world.
Eddie on Pacquiao controversy, Quigg v Munroe and Prizefighter
The quality of a fighters' camp will often determine victory but there is a regular debate on the 'old v new' in terms of training techniques.
I was as fascinated as always to watch
Jamie Moore being put through his paces in the Shinfield gym on Ringside this week. Like many set-ups, it was a real 'old school' environment, a fight gym that epitomises the phrase 'spit and sawdust'. There is no doubt that these kinds of gyms breed champions and the camaraderie between the fighters pushes them to the limits - there is no hiding place.
The secret is encompassing that environment and ethic with a new age of science that gives you an undeniable edge.
An athlete's world has evolved so rapidly in the last few years and the role of nutrition, strength and conditioning and recovery is now a huge part of their success. You only have to look at the world's top fighters and teams to see the meticulous preparation that goes into a camp to see how the sport is changing.
The Team GB set-up at Sheffield is a shining example of how a fighter should prepare. Would our team be so strong without the input of nutritionists, strength and conditioning coaches, physios and doctors? Of course not - it's not rocket science.
Behind every fighter is a great coach and the small components that make up the tiny percentages - 'the edge' as I call it - can often be the difference between winning and losing.
Boxing provides a very short career and the harsh reality is that there is no time to mess about. No time for ballooning in weight between fights, no time for heavy drinking and no time for trouble and the hardest discipline of all is to understand that in order to succeed you have to give your life and soul to the sport - if not you will regret it one day.
Human error
I tipped Timothy Bradley to win last week against Manny Pacquiao but he didn't. I actually scored it a little closer than most people but I still had Manny winning the fight. Many will be quick to criticise the sport and you will always get those who will claim the result was 'fixed' but even the most speculative of fans would struggle to find a motive.
Boxing is not 'fixed' and nor was this fight but human error amongst officials must be minimized in all sports but particularly in boxing where an injustice in a decision can effectively end a fighters prospects and even career. The difference with boxing is that a way in which a round is scored is merely someone's opinion, it's not goal line technology or TV replays and without bringing in computerised scoring (which I am against) we will always rely on someone's 'opinion'. It's imperative that the governing bodies and commissions ensure that judging standards are continually as high as possible.
Top Prize
The Betfair Prizefighter entrants for next week's International Heavyweights events stomped into town yesterday for the Sky Sports promo day. It's always good to chat to the fighters and understand their expectations, especially coming from overseas; I really feel it could be one of the most explosive yet.
Carl Froch conducted the draw, which threw up some interesting match-ups including an all-English quarter-final between Tom Little and Tom Dallas - the fans should raise the roof for that one. I know that Kevin Johnson is a big favourite but I have a sneaky little feeling for American Tor Hamer. He is probably the smallest of the line up but the footage I have seen has impressed me and I think he could go all the way.
I'm looking forward to this Saturday - fish and chips and a great night of boxing on
Sky Sports. As I mentioned last week, I believe Rendall Munroe will upset the apple cart and defeat Scott Quigg. Munroe looks focused and Quigg will need to lift his game well beyond the Jamie Arthur performance to be victorious. It's a stacked bill so enjoy the action!
Anyway, back to work. We are flat out here for the new season at Matchroom Sport. We have so many huge nights of boxing planned and it all begins with our Kell Brook - Edge Of Glory show at the Motorpoint Arena Sheffield on July 7.
It's without doubt the best card we have ever put on with title fights on the night and some of Britain's finest young talent on the undercard. The sport really feels like it's buzzing again so get behind our lads!
