Vera’s Promoter: Better to Have Chavez Rematch on HBO

by David P. Greisman

The rematch between Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and Brian Vera — a sequel to the controversies that came in before and after their September bout — has been pushed back from a potential December independent pay-per-view to a February date, likely on HBO.

That makes sense, of course, as there’s more money for the promoters and fighters in such a broadcast.

BoxingScene’s David P. Greisman spoke briefly with Vera’s promoter, Artie Pelullo of Banner Promotions, on Oct. 18 at the weigh-in for the bout between Mike Alvarado and Ruslan Provodnikov.

BoxingScene.com: What are your thoughts on the delay of the rematch between Chavez and Vera?

Pelullo: “I believe the delay of the rematch was because Chavez couldn’t make weight before Christmas and New Year’s, and we’re looking to do it in February with Bob.”

BoxingScene.com: Do you think it’s a better business move, having the rematch on HBO instead of an independent pay-per-view? I know the plan had originally been to do an independent pay-per-view if HBO hadn’t picked the bout up for December.

Pelullo: “It’s better for both fighters that it’s on HBO.”

BoxingScene.com: And Brian and you are OK with waiting until February?

Pelullo: “Sure. Because Brian wants to have a nice Christmas, too. And Brian this time will hopefully get a clear-cut decision in Texas.”

BoxingScene.com: What weight is the rematch going to be at?

Pelullo: “We’re talking about 168, max.”

BoxingScene.com: And do you think that’s actually going to happen?

Pelullo: “Well, I think there’s going to be a lot of fines in the contract this time prior to signing.”

Pick up a copy of David’s new book, “Fighting Words: The Heart and Heartbreak of Boxing,” at http://bit.ly/fightingwordsamazon. Send questions/comments via email at fightingwords1@gmail.com