Product Description
A provocative tale of an unlikely contender and her midlife transformation through boxing. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

This book will change YOUR mind about boxing, too
Binnie Klein is a fabulous writer and memoirist, and as she takes you through her process of discovering, in middle age, her desire to take up a sport that many consider violent--well, let me just say that you go right along with her, willingly, happily, cheering for her every step of the way. The things she discovers about herself, about her heritage, about her family will blow you away and give you a deeper understanding of so much about our culture that you may never have known. Her engaging voice, her curiosity, her self-effacing generosity--and ultimately the widening of her heart to take in so much of life, will make your own heart sing. I loved this book and recommend it to everyone--even those, like me, who never thought much about boxing except perhaps to think, "Why do people want to go stand in a ring and hit each other?" Now I know--it's so much more than that.

Great read!
While recuperating from surgery, I got to read Ms. Klein's wonderful book. I found it both inspiring and resonant. Her vulnerability, courage and commitment is evident throughout. The skill with which she weaves the narrative of her past with her present development as a boxer was fascinating to me. I think many readers will identify with her effort to make sense of the past through the experience of the present. Her poignant appreciation of the history of boxing drew me into a sport that I thought would hold no interest to me. Bravo, Ms. Klein! I look forward to your next book.

A wonderful author
I agree with the other 5-star reviews, and would only add the following. Klein has achieved something rare and wonderful: she has written a memoir in which she graciously highlights the people who have contributed to her own life while somehow effacing herself in the process.
There is no more enthusiastic boxing fan than me. The most recent book I have read on the subject is the grim "The Arc of Boxing" by Mike Silver, which goes beyond pessimism concerning professional boxing. But Klein has written the perfect complement. She has provided a paean to amateur boxing and to the people whose great spirit keep it alive as a source of strength and honor for people of all ages.
This is also a book for contemporary philosophers, at least for those to whom the Delphic oracle "Know Yourself" remains an ongoing task and challenge. Klein is always honest with herself, and always regards herself with great good humor.
Finally, I found the depiction of her father to be the most subtly moving portrait. He comes across on the surface as gruff, crude, and resentful of his lack of worldly success. But as one reads, one becomes aware that he managed to provide excellent educations to all three of his successful daughters, and that he loved them beyond his capacity to express.

knock out!
A great memoir, really enjoyable read for a fellow baby boomer. Then! Klein comes from her big heart and knocks you out at the end. really sweet.

not only about boxing
I read the whole book in a day.It was mesmerizing, fascinating, funny, thoughtful and delightful.How interesting to read about Binnie Klein's realization that boxing provides a path to self-realization.I recommend this book heartily. ... Read more

Product Description
Fists, fury and the sweet science of white collar boxing.

From elite boarding schools to executive boardrooms, white collar boxing has never been more popular. With its roots in the English aristocracy, the "Sweet Science" is gaining fans among the alpha males (and females) of industry, banking, finance, and law.

Now white collar boxer John Oden traces the history of the sport from organized bouts at English boarding schools in the 19th Century to today's brawls between stockbrokers and bankers. Along the way he details his own transformation from a milquetoast investment banker to "The Pecos Kid," one of the most fearsome white collar boxers in New York.

Boxing legends Gerry Cooney and trainer Emanuel Steward, among others, have enthusiastically embraced white collar boxing. At the intersection of professional and amateur boxing, it has inspired men and women from many different walks of life to participate in the ancient sport.

Each month, bouts are scheduled in the glistening hubs of finance from London to New York—black-tie charity events where some of the world's most powerful businesspeople battle each other into submission. White Collar Boxing is a compelling look at one man's odyssey through this growing phenomenon. 8 page photo insert. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

"Macho, Macho Man... He's Got to be...a Macho Man!"
Packs a punch.Hedge fund Wall Streeter John Oden pursues his Walter Mitty fantasy of lacing up the boxing gloves.Actually, he turns out to be very good at it and gives a passionate case for why the sport is a great avenue to fitness and self-knowledge.(A good riff and chapter on Bruce Lee as an inspiration!)

Two comments -- Oden says nothing about a wife and kids.The committment needed to be an effective boxer -- even a white collar boxer -- may be unrealistic for those with family responsibilities.

Second, Oden does have an occasional annoying habit to name-drop about the famous people he knows or the post fight limo rides to sumptuous NYC restaurants.

With all this, I still found it an absorbing read.....

Geezer jocks of the world, unite!You have nothing to lose ... except some flab or an occasional black eye!!

A Remarkable Contender!!!
John Oden's 'White Collar Boxing' is an inspirational read.It speaks of one man's journey into the ring while providing a peek into the entire world and culture of White Collar Boxing.

This man's story both encourages and captivates the reader.Each chapter is complete, informative and educational.Oden writes with clarity and knowledge.It clearly shines through in his historical account of the "Sweet Science".This chapter is one of the best and most comprehensive I have read on the history of boxing.

Chapter 16, entitled "Emanuel and Me", truly epitomizes the special relationship between an athlete and coach.This entertaining chapter clearly demonstrates the author's self discipline and confirms that he is not only a competitor but a true professional, both in the ring and out of it (where he is money manager by day).John Oden proves that anything is possible and goals can be attained.

This book is a must for all boxing --correction, make that all sports-- fans and an essential addition to any library.My advice is to find a quiet place and prepare to read this one all the way through in one sitting.By the end, you may want to go back and reread every page, as I have.You won't be disappointed!

More like One Man's Journey to Self-Obsession
The book starts off well enough with an interesting exploration of Oden's childhood.It also contains some interesting historical facts relating to boxing and gives some sense of what it's like to enter the world of white collar boxing.

Unfortunately, instead of letting the boxing emerge through Oden, Oden emerges through the boxing.This probably should have been a self-published work that he sent to his friends along with his boxing glove endorsed Christmas cards and other mementos of his boxing (yes, it's true, he really does send such self-promoting cards).The low point for me was when one of the greatest trainers in the world told him that Oden's 3 round bout ranked fifth (as I recall) in the trainer's list of greatest matches, somewhere just below Ali vs. Fraser.I mean, come on, get serious.

Anisi's book is much, much better (and his ego appears much, much smaller).I suspect Anisi could also pound Oden into the mat, but that's another story.

Should you buy this book?Probably if you're really into boxing.Better to borrow it if you can.

A great personal and boxing success story
I should disclose that although I have not seen John Oden in years, many years ago we were close friends- we both lived in the same neighborhood in Manhattan and one summer shared a beach house in the Hamptons with 20 other New Yorkers. In addition to partying hard with John(we were both a lot younger),I was also involved in several business ventures in NY and Dallas with John. John is one of the most honest, hard working, generous, and reliable people I've ever met.He's the one friend we all would like to have. The thing I enjoyed most about the book is how inspirational it is, both from a boxing and personal career perspective.The author does a good job telling how he made his way from a very small town in Texas to becoming a partner in a major NY investment firm, and along the way helped put white collar boxing on the map. I can recall an incident years ago, when I was living in San Francisco-I was able to convince my girlfriend to let me attend one of John's famous weekend Mahattan parties.Before the party, we worked out at the New York Athletic Club, and just in passing, John said "I think I might sign up for some boxing lessons."I thought he was joking, but apparently he was not.The book is not written from the perspective of a professional boxer, but instead from the point of view of a guy, with a full-time professional job, who decides to jump into a totally unfamiliar area of life-boxing, and through shear drive and persistance, succeeds, and in a big way. The book includes a good amount of white collar boxing detail- its history, the boxers, the trainers, the Hollywood connection, the boxing gyms, training programs, fight night, the international boxing competitions, etc, but I think this book could be enjoyed by any regular guy or gal who has a dream to reach out and explore a totally new realm. A great book for anyone who has ever said, " I can't do that, I don't have the time, I don't have the talent, people will think I'm crazy."

Hello, John!
I will order this book immediately!I grew up with John Oden in Pecos, Texas, and I don't even have to read it to know it's a good one!!!
Suzanne Barker Massey ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

d.
Excellent book. If you do not understand boxing, you will when you finish this book. Very good story at the end about the painting on the cover.Not very many men go back to the neighborhood they came from to help underprivileged youthsbecome great boxers.

IF YOU WANT TO BOX CORRECTLY, THIS IS A MUST READ
Yes Curtis Cokes is a member of the boxing hall of fame and a formerwelterweight champion but he is also an exceptional trainer.This issimply the best book on "how to box" out there.It is notanother boxing book about Mike Tyson, nor is it a boxing fitness anthology. Curtis goes through step by step, how the jab should be thrown, how to putthe right hand behind the jab properly, correct foot placement, etc. Curtis also gives you a glimpse into the mind of a champion, his workethic, his fears and some pitfalls for the young prospering boxer to watchout for.If you are a young amateur, you really should read this book tomake sure that you are being taught the correct way to box.Not alltrainers are created equal...

In addition, this book is short and tothe point; you may want to read a lot of the passages a little slower andthink about what he is actually telling you.Every bit of information hehas included on things such as the step-over left hook are critical toperfecting the movements.You may think that you know how to throw apunch, but your technique may need improvement.

Don't let thedated appearance of the book mislead you; this book is solid instructionfrom the mind of a great champion.

For Boxing Fans
Co-authored by a former Welterweight Champion, basic boxing techniques: stances, punches, fight strategy, training, and equipment selection are covered well. A surprisingly candid discussion is included to guide youngboxers in selection of manager and promoter...good buy. ... Read more

Product Description

Product Description
Muay Thai, also referred to as Thai boxing, combines fitness training, self-defense, and competitive sport. In this hands-on guide, renowned trainer Christoph Delp presents the sport’s history, development, rules, and equipment. In the techniques section, he first details basic skills such as the correct starting position and footwork. Next he offers a complete list of all the attacking techniques and a selection of effective defensive and counterattacking strategies. All techniques are presented step-by-step by Thai champions from the famous Sor Vorapin gym in Bangkok, showing readers the fine details of each technique. The training section provides detailed information about the structure, content, and planning of training regimens and this includes historical training methods, a stretching program, and training schedules. Suitable as both a self-training guide and a supplement to club training, Muay Thai Basics offers authoritative instruction for Thai boxers andother martial arts enthusiasts. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Mediocre Introduction
The techniques presented in Christopher Delp's book are correct and explained in a way that a beginner can easily understand but the presentation is boring and uninspiring.One can learn all the techniques presented in the book in a two hour class and have a better grasp on the biophysics.There are no interesting or creative moves that a reader can see in the book and then practice on his own.The book works as a reference and probably if one is teaching oneself Muay Thai.However as a supplement to a class on Muay Thai the book is next to worthless.

Good Starter
This is a great primer for any of the kicking-hitting martial arts. Not too deep or technical yet it covers all the fighting basics (except grappling). We use it for tune-ups for when we are not in the dojo and for settling disagreements as to form and technique options. The way it is laid out, it serves as a great starter or supplement to the fight science student.

Good Book, Good Thecniques
Hi! I'm a brazilian Muay Thai and Taekwondo Fighter.
I love this book. It has the basic steps to became a good fighter. I had a lot of ideas for may and may students trainning after read this book.
I recomend it for everybody who likes muay thai like me!

Swadee krup

muay thaibasics
this book is very good for those who want an introduction to thai boxing training.

many pictures and techniques

I needed a book to revise some basic techniques from classes I used to take. My requirements were a book that:
1. had a decent number of techniques
2. had clear pictures and explanations
3. was affordable

I was mainly after a book on technique, and not the history and culture of the art, there are other great books and videos available that focus on that.

This book had more techniques than what I where initially after, and so I learned some new ones I hadn't learned in class.
The techniques are neatly categorized according to "weapon of choice": knees, elbow, kicks etc. so it is easy to look them up.
The pictures are sequential so you can see the steps taken, there is also text that explains the technique, and even advice on how/when to use them.

Besides the techniques the book has information on warm-ups, stretching and so on.



... Read more

Product Description
Stories like Joey Giambras' have been attempted many times in many different styles. So what's the difference? This is the truth. The Gods' honest, ghetto style, Italian-American truth. Dramatic and intimate details about his childhood, life and death experiences, and life in the world of boxing controlled by the mafia. Rising from poverty during the Great Depression, to dining with royalty and celebrities. The book is finally here to reconstruct each and every moment of a man who would eventually be denied of the very thing he trained and fought so hard to attain. This is a story teeming with challenge, love, abuse, and family. Both kinds . . . It has a heart warming love story, a quality about the underdog makes good and the seedy truths about the controlled history of the boxing world feared to be told before now. The Golden era of boxing from the forties, fifties, and sixties . . . Famous and infamous Italian Mafia members trying to kill and then saving the young Giambra, despite him not joining the Mafia or playing hardball with them to throw fights for an eventual title shot . . . Mobsters, such as Vito Genevese, Carlo Gambino, Frankie Carbo, and Jack Ruby were all key figures in Giambra's career. He had real friendships with major sports figures such as heavyweight champions Rocky Marciano and Cassius Clay (Muhammad Ali), who was taught the "Rope-A-Dope" by the young Giambra. A middleweight champion, Sugar Ray Robinson, openly stated he would not fight Giambra for the title when he was champ! Lightweight champion Willie Pep and baseball legend Joe DiMaggio were two of Giambra's biggest fans! And being in Hollywood during the romantic era of the 60s, he acted in movies, such as The Misfits, and the television series, Mission Impossible and The Joey Bishop Show, a comedy series, and also had friendships with Ann Margaret, Marilyn Monroe, Clark Gable, and Joey Bishop. The original self-published book, The Uncr ... Read more

Product Description
Originally published in 1967, Pa Kua was the West’s first look into the esoteric Chinese martial arts. It has been a valued and sought after text ever since. It was put out of print in the 1970’s, but since that time interest in the martial arts have continued to skyrocket.

Pa Kua gives an introduction to the little known mystical martial art from China, Pa Kua Chang (also known as Ba Gua Zhang), translated as "Eight Trigram Boxing". Smith describes its history, profiles its great practitioners and gives a series of unique exercises, illustrating the solo practice and their fighting applications. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (17)

A good basic guide to this Chinese self-defense art.
Though I was primarily involved in the Japanese martial arts, I did study Tai-Chi and a little Kung-Fu.I found this book interesting when I purchased it in 1970.This provides a basic history, philosophy and origin of this Kung-Fu system.It also covers the basic eighteen exercises of Pa-Kua, as well as the main principles of this Chinese boxing art.The photographs are clear but I do not believe you can really learn this art by just reading thisbook.If you are studing this King-Fu system this book can help to clarify the movements your instructor has taught you. In conclusion, this book is of value for those who are studying with a Pa-Kua teacher.Rating:4 Stars.Joseph J. Truncale (Author:Martial Art Myths, Season of the Warrior, Never Trust a Politician, Shotokan Karate Self-Defense Techniques: Combat Karate for the street, Tano-Jutsu Manual, PR-24 Police Baton Advanced Techniques).

Good but Vague
This work was pretty good, and is really valuable for someone who wants to know this form.However, the book is vague, with almost no photographs until the form.There are no applications, which I wanted so bad.The book is also very short.Overall, It's pretty good. However, it doesn't compare to his first work on Hsing-I quan.

Pa-Kua book is good!
As a relatively new student of Pa-Kua, I found Mr. Smith's book to be a good introductory text to this wonderful and complex internal style. While he does offer a very good history of Pa-Kua, my only criticism would be that he has a bit too many picturesand not quite enough explanatory text for a book of this size. I would like to know more about the purpose of each movement and less images, since I don't think one can actually learn a martial art via a book alone,but I do think that one can glean valuable insights form the author's experience, and that knowledge, combined with a good teacher, can help one learn this fascinating art more efficiently.

Reprint of the now classic book
This is a reprint of the now over 30 year old classic that was the first book written by a westerner on this still obscure art. Pa Kua, or the "art of overkill," as it's sometimes called, is still much less known than its sister arts tai chi and hsing i.

After a brief into, some taoist philosophy (such as a brief explanation of the I Ching, and how it relates to pa kua), Smith gives a brief account of the history of the art before getting into the actual techniques. The introduction also includes some delightful stories about the adventures and exploits of some of the most famous masters.

There are two main basic technique sections, one presenting 18 basic movements, and a Forms and Functions chapter of 20 techniques shown with a partner that demostrate the applications. These include hand and foot strikes, traps, takedowns, and throws.

Smith then provides an excellent commentary on how to practice and some do's and don'ts. They're detailed, and at a high level of sophistication in terms of the theory, including much practical advice such as how to relax, how to breathe, how to prepare your mind, and so on. Another important point is that the pa kua techniques are not so much techniques in the traditional sense so much as concepts that manifest change according to the principles of the I Ching. If you understand these and internalize them then your progress will be great. The comments in this section are worth the price of the book by themselves.

Finally, the unique classical circling exercise is presented with a couple of variations thrown in the good measure. These are shown by Paul Kuo, one of Smith's teachers in Taiwan and a famous pa kua master who I had heard of for some years before I saw him demonstrating the form in this book.

I had just one or two final comments about this unique art. The evasive and circling skills of a true pa kua master are formidable and I once had the opportunity to spar with one and see them for myself. I being an advanced karate practitioner, and very big, strong, and fast at the time and the pa kua master being 20 years older and much smaller, I felt he was no match for me in terms of strength and that I had the advantage as far as "duking it out" and trading punches and kicks went.

However, I never got the chance to do that. The master would quickly disappear behind me as soon as I moved toward him. His evasive skills were truly a delight to see and I came away with a new respect and appreciation for this unusual art which is still rarely seen even in China.

the circular art of ba gua
This book presents the first descriptions in English of bagua methods transmitted by Zhang Juen-feng to the Hung family of Taipei. The Hung school became renouned and feared for their fighting prowess, so I agree fully with the previous 5-star reviews. Although such forms are posited on a line, there are many spirals and circles inherent to the movements as well, and the system does include a related set of circle walking and circular changes passed down from Zhang. So bagua is circular - true enough - and the author takes things to that level, as exemplified in the circling method of Paul Guo (along with footnotes on Wang Shu-chin, another peerless fighter; just ask the Japanese who met him). Mr Guo was a municipal police officer, also skilled in xing-yi, whose bagua was based on that of Sun Lu-tang. The book does not provide details on the many fighting functions inherent to the circular changes for reasons of time and space and those given by the author himself (i.e., linear methods more easy to grasp for Westerners at the time). Think about it. Given his vast experience, it is unlikely that the author would take the time to learn and publish a method that was devoid of fighting applications. In fact, he showed many of them in his regular classes, and importantly, also taught principles on how to look for other applications. Times being what they are today, it should be no problem for the uninitiated and perplexed to find someone also skilled at the circling methods in order to lend a convincing hand. But first, give the book a fair shake, try some of the methods, and then go out and find a teacher to help you along. Respectfully, even if you are an undefeated mixed-martial arts champion, a thorough study of these practices will surely improve your skill level and definitely change your outlook on these arts. ... Read more

Product Description
How can trade unions make sense of social partnership? What are the implications of partnership for union renewal? This book takes an international perspective to explore these issues based on an ongoing dialogue between researchers and union practitioners in eight countries. The book develops the metaphors "boxing" and "dancing" to denote contrasting strategic choices to the employment relationship, yet argues that neither approach alone can offer an exclusive trajectory for union development. The contributors conclude by identifying lessons for union renewal.
... Read more

Product Description
Through rare photographs and firsthand reports, enter a world few Westerners have ever seen. Learn traditional Burmese boxing techniques from the basic stances, kicks and strikes through advanced "experts only" moves, and be introduced to the grueling training exercises practiced in ancient times and the modern methods used by fighters today. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

nicht viel auszusetzen
Es gibt wenig zu sagen. Diese Arbeit ist nicht schlecht. Wenn man weiß was man zu erwarten hat, wird man mit diesem Buch nicht enttäuscht werden. Dazu kommt, dass es über das burmesische Boxen so gut wie keine Literatur gibt. Der Preis könnte etwas niedriger sein und die Bilder etwas besser. Doch mehr als ein Stern behalte ich deswegen nicht ein.

Good Book
I love books that are about rare martial arts that are extremly hard to find info about. This book definitly fit in that category,however, this book needs a little more instruction when it comes to techniques. The author did an awesome job no doubt but i also wish it wasnt $20 either too. A lil much for a 110 page book, but i did like this book for the love of all boxing and kick boxing related arts.

Interesting read on an obscure martial art.
After studying "westernized" Muay Thai for a number of years, I became interested in the more historical aspects of boxing styles practiced in various manners throughout Southeast Asia. I was certainly not disappointed with this book. Burmese boxing contains many of the same techniques as traditional Muay Thai, but also has headbutts, throws, spinning backfists, double flying knee strikes, and a variety of other techniques. The book contains information on the history of Burmese boxing, rules of the sport, and excellent illustrations of basic and highly advanced striking, defense, throwing, and neck wrestling techniques. There is a lot of information packed into this book. My only complaint is that the techniques could use a little more explanation. Anyone with experience in a striking art would have no problem picking up on these techniques, though. Overall, an excellent book.

Traditional Burmese Boxing : Ancient and Modern Methods from Burma's Training Camp
This book is a good resource for any fan of Southeastern Martial Arts.It will give you a glimpse of the cousing of Muay Thai (Thai Boxing)Sometimes this martial art is considered more brutal than Thai Boxing (since the rules are so thin and also the use of wrestling and headbutts.)Is A Basic look since is the only book avialble that I know regarding this art.But is worth it for serious fighters. And for the rest is a good resource of cultural glimpse of Burma. ... Read more

Product Description
This book is filled with interviews of some of boxing's greatest fighters, greatest minds, and biggest hearts. I did my best to capture the mindset of each individual; how boxing perceives them and how they perceive their personal contributions to the sport. Boxing is a very old sport, as is baseball and football. If you compare the injuries by sport, you will see that boxing has the least amount of the three. Today's boxing still has some work to do, but in my opinion the sport is doing well. There are a lot of very talented up-and-coming fighters climbing the ranks. I hope that more time and money will be spent on the amateur level of this great sport. The amateur level of boxing is where it all begins. Amateur boxing is the foundation; if the foundation is not sound, then the boxing house that the pros live in may come crashing down. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Sparring with the pros
This book is obviously aimed straight at boxing fans. Interviewer Cooney assumes most of his readers have a working knowledge of the sport and at least a little bit about the personalities he's interviewing. However, even someone like me who knows next to nothing about the current state of the sport can find several great tidbits in these interviews from 2004 or so. Through Brad's three interviews with trainer Freddie Roach, I understood a bit more about Mike Tyson's attempted return to the ring that year. Several of the boxers interviewed put the pressure on the author to be funny by giving short answers lacking details, but the interviewees that shine really shine: Evander Holyfield, Larry Holmes, the Brit Dean Phillips.

Although the interviews at this point are several years old, it's a good look at the recent history of the sport.

GENE BORKMAN ACTOR" RAGING BULL"
" I enjoyed reading about the author's personal experiences, I enjoyed the interviews as well "(Gene Borkman) actor of the legendary boxing movie "RAGING BULL".

Excellent read!
Excellent read for any boxing fan!I really enjoy reading Brad Cooney's interviews. ... Read more

Product Description
Many boxers, people involved in boxing such as trainers, and announcers, as well as celebrities, have been interviewed in the pages of this book. Most importantly, they are heard in their own words - meaningful words that need to be taken seriously in order to perpetuate the sport of boxing as the greatest of all competitive sports.

In addition to this, "Bad" Brad Berkwitt's constant fight to finally put in place a mandatory retirement fund for all boxers who have poured their blood, sweat and tears inside the ropes of the boxing ring, is well documented within these pages and, it is his hope that one day very soon, this will be accomplished. Finally, when that day comes, Author "Bad" Brad Berkwitt will have been one of those people, instrumental in bringing it to the forefront. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Who Knew?
For one who has never followed boxing, other than being aware of the big events that anyone not living in the darkest reaches of some cave would hear about, I was surprised that anyone could make the thoughts and comments of pugilists interesting to me. "Bad" Brad is a master interviewer. His questions, though naturally a bit repetitive in a report that covers similar activities, are always pithy and to the point. He has managed to elicit the essence of each fighter and distill it into vivid portraits. I found myself actually enjoying every encounter, even when I didn't fully understand all the "jargon." This is a book I look forward to sending as a gift to pals and kin.

Incredible book for EVERY boxing fan!
Brad Berkwitt's book is a must for any boxing fan's book shelf!

Brad has done an outstanding job in getting some of the current and former greats of the sport to talk with him about their careers and what should happen in today's boxing.

I also enjoy the interviews with noted boxing fans like Al Martino, Vanessa Del Rio and the late Buddy Hackett!

This is an incredible book that you can refer to again and again!

Not "Bad" Brad!
When interviewing, Berkwitt asks much of the same questions to the many different fighters in his book and it was interesting to compare their answers. Yet questions were also asked that related specifically to the particuliar boxer's carreer. This book is a must have for the true boxing fan.

Berkwitt didn't shy away from interviewing female boxers. A sport is a sport and if women lace up the gloves, whether you agree with them doing so or not, you've got to respect them and their opinions.

A small thing ... was George Foreman 44 or 45 when he defeated Michael Moore? On page 36, according to Michael Buffer, he was 44.On page 89, Buffer is quoted as saying that he was 45.

I have a moral objection to the interview of a prostitute / stripper / porn star (AKA: adult movie star). In doing so it legitimizes her profession.

Additionally, I don't think that it was necessary or useful for Berkwitt to include interviews from various singers and comedians in his book.

The interviews were insightful and it was hard to put the book down once I started reading it.

BOXING INTERVIEWS LIKE NO OTHERS...
I just got done reading "Bad" Brad Berkwitt's new boxing book Boxing Interviews of a Lifetime for the fourth time.Each time I pick up this book, I learn something knew about so many fighters I have loved over the years.Fighters such as Sean O' Grady, Chuck Wepner, Aaron Pryor, Gerry Cooney, Gene Fullmer, Ron Lyle, Roy Jones, JR, Ken Norton, Yaqui Lopez and Vinny Paz which are just some.

The other amazing thing this author does is interview celebs such as Jerry Vale, Al Martino, Vanessa Del Rio, Joey Bishop and the late Buddy Hackett.The stories they tell about the sport of boxing which they love are priceless.

This Berkwitt fellow has set a standard for all others to follow on how to conduct an interview by getting all the details out of his interviewee..

I not only highly reccomend this book, but I will guaranteeyou will read it many times over because it's just that informative and entertaining..

Funny thing, the minute I saw his dedication to his late Father in the front and the very moving words he said, I knew this book was going to be Great...

BOXING INTERVIEWS OF A LIFETIME_A BIG HIT!
If he never writes another word, covers another boxing event, or does another great interview, "Bad" Brad (as my good friend Henry "Discombobulating" Jones likes to call him) has made his mark on the boxing landscape. The great news is that he's not done yet! He loves and cares about this stuff too much! He not only has covered the current main personalities in the fight game, but he has additionally "reached back" and caught readers up on some of the great figures of boxing's past. He covers all of the bases and lets the fighters say it "their way". The fans, the fighters and the "boxing insiders" like myself love it this way! Bad Brad -keep up the great work! I know you will, because like I said . . . " he's not done yet! "

10 Count - I'm Out!
Baltimore-Washington's own Fight Doctor (AKA Jerome Spears) ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (1)

an excellent read
I've been a boxing fan for 2 decades and have always wanted a book that encompasses the history of the Irish in boxing. Well, I picked up this book 2 weeks ago and can happily say that it was everything I hoped it would be. It's easy to read and full of fun information and facts.

The book does have a couple flaws, though. No.1, on page 222 the author says that Harry Greb "beat" Mike O'Dowd. In fact, it was O'Dowd who was given the newspaper decision over Greb(one of the few Harry ever lost).

No.2, on pages 177-178 the author describes race riots in 1860s New York, painting pictures of lynchings and mutilations in horrific detail. This was fine until he went on to suggest that John L. Sullivan, who was an admitted racist, would have approved of the actions of the murderous mobs! This is outrageous and purely speculation. Sullivan's rhetoric may have been anti-black but his actions sometimes betrayed otherwise. He had great admiration for the great black bantamweight George Dixon and on more than one occasion toured the country with him, dining and drinking with the man they called "Little Chocolate". Hardly the actions of a man who would approve of the murder of innocent black people, don't you think?

Other than that bit of silliness, the book was first rate and I highly recommend it.

ADDENDUM: After further research I've discovered that the press was split down the middle on the Greb-O'Dowd fight. In fact many of the sportswriters who favored Greb were from O'Dowd's hometown, so it's generally considered that Greb shaded him by a small margin. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review
A few years ago, the title of this book would've seemed ridiculous.But interest in fight training has been skyrocketing,even among those who have no intention of hitting another human being, orbeing hit. Some do it to learn self-defense, while others want the fitnessbenefits. Still others want the confident, athletic posture of the trainedboxer. Boxing for Everyone shows how to get all of the above. Much of thebook focuses on posture and footwork, and it concludes by setting up workoutsfor aspiring boxers to follow. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Awesome Book!
I box at Cappy's Gym in Seattle, and I have referred to this book countless times when working on alignment technique, footwork, etc. It's a great reference for boxers of all skill levels, plus it doesn't "read" like a manual- it's interesting!

A great resource!
I wasn't sure what to expect with this book, but it not only provides factual information on the technical aspects of boxing but also inspires female would-be boxers to be their best.An invaluable asset to anyone thinking about boxing.

Too basic - no help for me
I am athletic but have never boxed. I bought this book looking for heavy bag routines,punching styles, workout suggestions etc.I did not find it here.

I feel this book is very outdated. The graphics are very poor,the workout ideas are minimal.It seems to be aimed at women who are JUSTgetting into sports. Too much basic information (filler) from stretching tohow to do situps.

Great book.Informative, practical, empowering
Great Book. It covers the fundamentals, presents the material in a readable manner, and comes from a place of support and empowerment.The author is definitely not from the macho school of boxing.She manages toaddress both the how-to of boxing and the mental/emotional issues. Remindedme of why i started boxing in the first place, and why i want to teachsomeday.

A Good Boxing Manual
This book is not only mentioning the female boxing but a good boxingmanual. For beginner, you can learn the basic skills. For the experienceboxer, this book is a good reminder. ... Read more

Product Description

Product Description
No sport offers more allure and repulsion than the inviting and abrasive world of boxing. Starting on the mean streets of 1950s Chicago, this collection of essays moves into a close reflection of the boxing world up through the glitz of today’s boxing circuit.

For Ted Sares, boxing is more than a sparring match between two combatants violently punching each another. It is a visceral experience that reaches in all directions, from his childhood memories of visiting the Chicago rings with his father to today’s all-out-fight demeanor of Juan Manuel Marquez and Manny Pacquiao. At the same time tender and brutal, triumphant and tragic, in the end these pieces are about the last man standing and the hope for fair judgment between the victor and the defeated.

Boxing Is My Sanctuary is a collection of essays that explores both sides of a sport that is colored with paradox. Between the violent and affectionate, the barbaric and the civilized, Sares finds a ringside refuge in the midst of the sights, sounds, and smells that define boxing. ... Read more

Product Description

Product Description
Dick Tiger was perhaps the greatest fighter to come out of the African continent. Emerging from an environment devoid of substantive traditions in boxing, he would overcome a litany of obstacles before becoming a two-time undisputed world middleweight titlist and an undisputed light heavyweight champion. ‘The Life and Times of a Boxing Immortal,’ the first comprehensive biography of Dick Tiger, puts the man in the context of his times. A migrant fighter to Liverpool, the repository of West African born fighters who kept the British game alive during the industry wide recession of the 1950s, Tiger later moved to America where he established a marquee value seldom attained by non-American fighters and where he played a prominent role as an ‘in-house’ fighter at the ‘Mecca of Boxing,’ New York City’sMadison Square Garden. His life also personified the hopes, aspirations and the tragedy of the Igbo ethnic group. An avowed apostle of Biafran secession from Nigeria,! Tiger’s support would cost him dearly. Here is Dick Tiger as never before explained: The ‘blue collar’ fighter, ageless ringman, commercial venturer, Nigerian patriot and Biafran rebel. From empty bottle trader to wealthy realtor, from Nigerian boxing booths to Madison Square Garden, from journeyman fighter to world championship fighter; ‘The Life and Times of a Boxing Immortal’ is a compelling study of human dignity in triumph and in tragedy. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Great Black History Book
This Book was a journey from Africa to the United States with battles and victories.Dick Tiger never quit he kept fighting and pulling himself up from the rough fight that life dealt him.This book would make a great movie.We can all learn the lesson of staying tough in hard times.You will overcome challenges with discipline and persistence.

Excellent look at a champion
I must admit that I have only seen 3 of his fights (the disaster against Bob Foster and his fights with Gonzalez and Fullmer 1.) but he came across as a tough guy.

Perhaps not the most naturally gifted fighter but one who made up for it with courage and perseverance.

The book is a good read. Gives the life of Tiger very well, I guess my only little disappointment was the lack of personal stories in it. Would have liked a little more insights into the man from Ron Lipton.

Nevertheless this is a minor quibble, a good book.

Dissapointed
I wanted this to be a great book, but it wasnt.
It was very hard to read. It did not flow smooth and I had to keep going back to get a better understanding.I really didn't learn anything new about Tiger from this book.
The pictures were also of very poor quality.
I would rather have read a Bio. of Ron Lipton who did the forward to this book.

Enlightening
A comprehensive biography of Richard "Dick Tiger" Ihetu, two-time undisputed world middleweight champion and one-time undisputed light heavyweight champion. He was a humble man from humble beginnings in Nigeria, who went from Liverpool's boxing booths to New York City's Madison Square Garden. Makinde delves into Dick Tiger's life and explains the most intricate situations that allow us to know one of the greatest fighters of all times-a real history lesson.

Highest quality saga of one of the ring's great warriors
One of the best stories I have ever read, so much behind the scenes material it makes the most interesting and historical reading for anyone of any age.Great Introduction by Tiger's friend and former sparring partner, my father referee Ron Lipton, who really loved Tiger and told me about him since I was a boy.

One of the most complete researched books I have ever read, they should make it into a movie. This man fought the toughest people who ever lived in his division and was such a kind person. Truly amazing. Great job by Adeyinka Makinde.

Brett Lipton ... Read more

Product Description
On September 23, 1957, Carmen Basilio moved up in weight class to challenge Sugar Ray Robinson, pound for pound the greatest boxer, for the middleweight championship of the world. Basilio, the ultimate warrior, set the stage for a classic matchup between great fighters. Leading up to the fight, Robinson had angered his opponent with his arrogance and one-sided demands. Basilio entered the ring with one goal in mind: the destruction of Sugar Ray Robinson. This matchup was much more than a battle for a world championship. This fight was "personal." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Simple errors not caught
This book contained many quotes and passages by deceased people from earlier carmen basilio articles from boxing magazines. It also contained some glaring errors that should have been caught easily if the book had simply been proof read. The errorslisted in the book have Joey Maxim as a lightweight champion when he was the light-heavyweight champion. The author also misspelled emmanuel steward as "stuart", and he had "Sugar" Ray Robinson knocking out Gene Fullmer in round one, when the actual round was five. This book gave little insight into carmen basilio, the man, as it makes no mention of what happened to his first wife, or insight into his more noteable fights.

Very disappointing
A very disappointing effort. Although a book on the remarkable Carmen Basilio has been needed for some time, this is not it. Gary B. Youmans hasn't really written a biography of Basilio; he has merely compiled the raw materials for one. A few short passages of narrative are consistently followed by a long series of quoted remarks in the style of oral history. After his 600-word account of the second fight with Tony DeMarco, for example, Youmans shifts to this:

"CARMEN BASILIO: 'After the seventh round, when he hurt me I could see that he was getting tired and it was a question of time until he ran out of gas.'
"DONALD HAMILTON (Boxing Historian): 'When Carmen fought Tony DeMarco in Boston, the place was packed. . . .'"

From the eighth round we are jerked back to the pre-fight attendance? This is typical of the book's method. Hamilton's comment follows upon Basilio's only in the author's notes. Youmans does not even try to put his interviews in any kind of order. Nor is any attempt made to knit these free-standing quotations, which constitute about 70% of the book, into a coherent account. The result is less a narrative than a scrapbook. Basilio's story must be pieced together by the reader, because the book does little of the work.

And who knows? Perhaps that is for the best. Youmans is a superficial writer when left to his own devices. "These two great fighters had fought an epic battle of determination and grit," he says of Basilio and DeMarco.If there is a cliche or unreflective phrase in the vicinity of his desk, Youmans snatches it before it can flit away.

Written with Carmen Basilio's help and cooperation, the book is a testament to Youmans's affection for the great champion. Most readers will share that affection--before and after reading this book. "The Onion Picker" might have been improved, though, and Youmans's personal relationship with Basilio might even have survived, a slightly more critical account of a unique and sometimes difficult man.

For diehard boxing fans, especially those fascinated by Basilio's story, in and out of the ring, this book is worth the new information and photographs it provides. Perhaps it will provoke a better writer into tackling the onion farmer's biography.

Great read
I was a teenager durning the 50s. Part of my spare time was spent in a gymnasium for amature and pro boxers. I gained my enthusiasm and love of the sport from my dad which I still carry to this day. This book was a throw back to a simpler time and what a treat to read of the men that made the sport what it was. Sure, there were shady characters around the game just like today. But when all of that is said and done two guys get into the ring and make it right. Starting in about 1952 I saw every fight ( on TV) described in the book. To read about them and what went on behind the scene was pure enjoyment. I'v read lots of boxing books but this one is special. To me the names are magical. Louis, Marciano, Walcott, Charles, Basilio, DeMarco, Robinson, Moore & Olson just to name a few. This book is money well spent.

The onion picker
I ordered this book for my husband and he loved it. He will read it more than once. He has already shared it with two other fellas his age,who remember the boxers and they loved the book also.

great item on a worthy subject !

Boxing has long needed a careful and literate treatment of Carmen Basilio.I was delighted to fine this one.Dr. Kelly Nicholson ... Read more

Product Description
This is a compilation of articles focusing on the world of boxing. Hugh McIlvanney has been a winner of the UK Sportswriter of the year Award, and has been voted Journalist of the Year. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

McIlvanney on Boxing.
This magnificent book is a must for all boxing fans. The writer focuses on (recent)fights and events in the boxing world.Each occassion is brought to life with exquisitely descriptive prose so excellently constructed,that the reader will find it hard to put down.Some parts are genuinely sad,while at the same time Mr.McIlvanney's gift for humourous observations and anecdotes is hilarious.Intoxicating!

Hugh McIlvanney Is the Undisputed Champion of Boxing Writing
Hugh McIlvanney is often described as the best english-speaking boxing writer of our time. After reading this book I must agree. The book consists of McIlvanney's insightful coverage of the major boxers and fights in the last four decades. His expert boxing analysis and masterful handling of english language is of the same level as Muhammad Ali's footwork or Larry Holmes' jab. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (3)

Great place to start learning the basics...
Easy to read with only 80 pages and medium text. The pages are full of information from physical training, correct ways to perform a jab, upper cut, right cross, and various kicks. How to work the ring and hold your own against an opponent. Trivia on different leagues, a weight class table, and suprisingly a page on hand wraps and types of gloves and equipment. I read it in one sitting. A real guide book for beginners.

Kickboxing made simple!
This book is great!It shows you the general basics of the steps.It shows you motion by motion how you should move your feet and arms.Also there is a section about exercise and training.It explains everything really well.I think I was looking for a more "Tae-Bo" kind of work out.You have to put your own steps to music with this book, which is fine.It is fun and if you are interested in Kick Boxing I would say go for it!

This is where to learn the basics.
This is a great book for learning the fundamentals of kickboxing. Written in a clean and concise style, it covers the work-a-day world of becoming a kickboxer.Leaving out the 'grandmaster' stuff usually found in martial arts books, Kickboxing Basics focuses on the meat: how to get in shape; how to throw a punch/kick; how to move around the ring; and how to win a fight. As a 'basics' book, it doesn't go into a lot of detail, but does give firm pointers to the paths the reader should explore.A great read. ... Read more