By James Slater – Since he’s been somewhat quiet since that humbling loss of an MMA debut back at the end of August, boxing fans have been wondering what’s up with James “Lights Out” Toney; wondering what his plans for the future are.
Wanting to know myself, I called up John Arthur, manager of the 42-year-old all-time great, and he was able to arrange a quick over the phone interview with the former multi-weight (and current IBA heavyweight) champion.
Toney was at the gym when I called, but he was still kind enough to find me some time. Toney made it abundantly clear he is far from finished as a boxer, and he informed me of his plans for the coming months.. As fast with his mouth as ever, Toney, as usual, had quite a bit to say about the Klitschko brothers and David Haye. Toney also let me know he has a certain Antonio Tarver on his current hit-list!
James Slater: Thanks so much for your time, Champ. I know you are busy training; when will you box again?
James Toney: It’s my pleasure. I will be fighting again February 24th, right here in California. This will be my first [IBA heavyweight] title defence.
J.S: Who against?
J.T: We don’t know the opponent yet but it will be good to be back. I wanna get busy, maybe have two or three more fights like this one in February (low key type affairs) and then I want a summer showdown with Antonio Tarver. I think that will be a big, pay-per-view event of a fight.
J.S: Why do you want Tarver in particular? Has he badmouthed you?
J.T: I’m sick of all this talk that he’s a great fighter. He ain’t no great fighter like me. He’s a decent fighter, above average, he became a world champion. But I’ll take him to school.
J.S: You see a points win or will you stop him if and when you fight?
J.T: I know I’ll knock him out!
J.S: I’d love to see the fight happen; two skilled veterans. You feel you have plenty left to offer boxing still?
J.T: Hey, baby, the best is yet to come! I have a few fighters on my mind right now: Tarver, the two Bitchko sisters and David Gaye! But neither guy will take a risk and fight me. I’m the IBA heavyweight champion and I’d be willing to fight ‘em at any time, but they won’t do it, they’re scared. This is what’s killing boxing, the best fights not being made. I’m old-school, I don’t like any of this ducking shit! This is why MMA is taking over.
J.S: You think you’d KO those guys too?
J.T: I’m going back to the old James Toney; I’m gonna start putting guys to sleep. Any time any place, I’ll fight the sisters or Gaye! They know it, but they won’t do it. They are running around taking easy fights against other bums. They’re cowards, man. If I fight ‘em, I’ll make it like they didn’t pay their electric bill – their lights must go out! I’m training hard right now and I can’t wait to get back [in the ring]. It’s time to get busy!
J.S: Thanks so much for your time, James. I know you have to run.
J.T: Call me any time.