The Return of 24/7!
Posted 10-29-2008 at 05:05 PM by NFFC
It's back. The first episode of Calzaghe-Jones 24/7 aired on Sunday night on HBO. I managed to watch, as I was a massive fan of the 24/7 series that HBO did for the De la Hoya-Mayweather and Mayweather-Hatton fights. To be honest I didn't know what to expect. I was curious.
On one hand, this is a big superfight. The concept of going into the fighters lives and training camps is a great idea. It makes the fan feel part of the drama. It also allows casual fans to learn about the life of a fighter as the big event approaches. Who knows? One of the featured fighters may even become an idol for a 10 year old casual fan watching for the first time. It appeals to a wide range of audiences. Also, it fills the gap between the press tour and the weigh in, when things can go a bit quiet on the news and drama front. These are just some of the reasons why I love 24/7, and it's one of my favourite shows on TV.
On the other hand, both of the previous series of 24/7 had included the Mayweathers, who as everyone knows provide much of the drama. When I heard there was a 24/7 for the Calzaghe-Jones fight and the De la Hoya-Pacquiao fight, I didn't know what to expect. A lot of people have said that the Mayweather's made that show. With Oscar de la Hoya and Ricky Hatton being my favourite fighters, I didn't think that was true, but it was an interesting point. A new chapter of 24/7 is here.
I felt excited as I saw the intro, just like I did for the previous two series. As the episode got underway, I loved it more than ever. The show started by setting the scene, before going to Calzaghe's Newbridge gym. Then, it goes back over the Lacy and Kessler fights, reminding us of Calzaghe's brilliance. Calzaghe talks about how he still trains at home, and how he refuses to lose. It is a good start to the show.
Then we go to the Jones camp in Pensylvania. Instantly I recognize how relaxed Jones is. And this is the beauty of 24/7. Without it, I and many other viewers wouldn't know what the mood is like. Or at least we wouldn't be able to see it with our own eyes. Then Jones talks about himself in his prime, and some of his devastating speed and awesome power. Jones then says "now you know, if you didn't know, you're looking at one bad dude". Another great thing about 24/7. Some great quotes and one liners. We are then reminded of Jones' feat of becoming the first Middleweight champion in 106 years to capture a Heavyweight title, and then of his dramatic fall, with his KO losses to Antonio Tarver and Glen Johnson. Interestingly, Jones then says that his last three comeback wins have been to get ready for Joe. I ain't sure about that. His comeback started nearly three years ago. I think he always wanted one more big fight, but I don't think he knew it would be Calzaghe until last year.
We then go back to the Calzaghe camp, where it is media day, and Calzaghe's popularity is shown. Then the focus goes to Calzaghe's relationship with his father Enzo. Joe says the fact that they are similar characters helps them. Couldn't be more true. Then the focus turns to Jones relationship with Coach Merk. Again Jones appears relaxed. He and Coach Merk seem a perfect match. Jones then explains that he came to Pensylvania to get away from the hustle and bustle of home life.
Meanwhile Calzaghe is still preparing hard. We see his family, and a typical day for him. He looks just as relaxed as Jones. An interesting story then develops. Roy tells us that a man told him why he loved him, and he realized that he wasn't that person anymore. Jones says he believes that was God talking to him. The reason for his relaxed attitude becomes a little clearer. However you never can be sure with Roy Jones.
The episode ends with Jones saying all the pressure is on Joe. Very true. Then clips of training are shown. Both look terrific already. I'm so excited about the fight! I was very impressed with 24/7. HBO did a good job in my opinion. The show was just as entertaining without the Mayweathers. I can't wait for the next episode!
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