Jones-Tarver III: The Only Fight That Matters For Jones

[ProBox1]

On October 1st of this year at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Antonio Tarver 23-3 (18) will meet Roy Jones 48-3 (38) for a third time after splitting their first two meetings. This will occur on the 30th anniversary of the most famous rubber match in boxing history, the third and final meeting between former heavyweight champs Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, known as "The Thrilla In Manila."

Jones, voted the pound-for-pound fighter of the 1990's, will meet the undisputed best light heavyweight in boxing when he meets Tarver. Their rivalry dates back to their early days fighting as amateurs in the state of Florida. However, it didn't become a full blown rivalry of note until Nov. 8, 2003, when Tarver defended his light heavyweight titles in the first meeting between them.
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[restless_438]

another good article, it makes sense that the Tarver rubbermatch is easily the most important to Jones' career now.

favorite points:

Well Mr. Jones proved me wrong in that regard. Regardless of the outcome in the Tarver-Jones rubber match, Roy Jones has shown that he's made of the same character as many of histories great champions. I'm glad too have been proved wrong by him. I don't care if Tarver goes on to stretch him for the count with the first punch he lands in the fight, Jones showed what he's made of by taking the fight.

Had Roy left boxing without fighting Tarver again, I would have to ask myself why he never wanted to settle the score with him. I would've deduced that he feared he couldn't beat him. Now I know Tarver didn't take his heart and I'll even get the answer as to whether Jones is capable of turning the table on him by winning the rubber match.

The bottom line is Roy Jones is fighting Antonio Tarver again, with a lot more to lose and at a time when Tarver's confidence has never been higher. Tarver may beat Jones when they meet in 59 days, but we know one thing he can't do, he can't take Jones' heart. Now we'll find out if Tarver just landed a lucky punch.

regardless of others comments, i'm excited about seeing this fight. it could be history in the making.