2013 Prospect of the Year: Billy Joe Saunders

2013 Prospect of the Year: Billy Joe Saunders
Mark E. Ortega
December 27, 2013

A number of young fighters saw their unbeaten records receive their first blemishes, while other young prospects established themselves as potential future stars of the sport. Last year, I anointed Javier Fortuna my Prospect of the Year based on his youth and impressive victories, as well as the fact he maintained an active schedule. Those are all important when it comes to deciding my Prospect of the Year. Here is my choice as well as a few others who were worthy of consideration.

Ten Worst Boxing Moments of 2013

Ten Worst Boxing Moments of 2013
Mark E. Ortega
December 20, 2013

Although many consider 2013 to have been a banner year for boxing, it wasn't always smooth sailing. The sport suffered from its fair share of scandal and controversy, not to mention in a few cases just some poor judgment and bad taste. Here I count down the ten worst moments the sport dealt with in 2013.

2013 Rookie of the Year - Jose Ramirez

2013 Boxing Rookie of the Year - Jose Ramirez
Mark E. Ortega
December 19, 2013


I've always wondered why boxing outlets never appoint a Rookie of the Year. To determine rookie status, a fighter must have turned professional in 2013. But, like in baseball, where if you didn't reach a certain amount of plate appearances, for this award you could qualify if you fought twice or less total in years previous.

With that in mind, I thought I would designate my own Rookie of the Year for 2013, adding a couple of honorable mentions.