For Boxing Fans in Far West Texas, The Fights Were Up-Close and In-Person

[gallery ids="23783,23781,23782,23780,23779"]

Saturday was a special day for boxing. Floyd Mayweather defeated Manny Pacquiao in what was billed as the biggest bout of the year. It was broadcast on pay-for-view television. Meanwhile, in Fort Davis, fight fans were able to see boxing up-close and in-person at the second annual Big Bend Brawl. Tom Michael was there, and has this report.

The fight’s over and the judge raises up the arm of the 21-year-old in black trunks, Anthony White. Breathless in the mid-day heat, he recaps his victory.
I tried to stay one step out, so when he came in with a jab, I could just step in, throw and get out. I don't think he was used to that.
White’s from Massachusetts, stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso. He loves boxing.
It's considered almost like an individual sport but it really is based on the team that's around you. You really need great coaches and great support with it.
His coach is Ron Boldan, a military man whose been training boxers since the 1970s.
It doesn't make no difference if a fighter is better than you. If you've got good technique and you learn the basics, you can beat him.
On this day in Fort Davis, most the fighters are from El Paso. Malik Willis is a college student at Sul Ross in Alpine.
In the first round, I fell like I dominated. And in the second round, I got the TKO.
His coach, Jose Frank Guerrero started Alpine Boxing Club three years ago. He kinda fell into it.
I was just working out at David Duncan's karate gym. And two boys came in  - Diego Monclova and George Monclova - and they've been with me ever since. I didn't plan to coach. I didn't think about it.
Boxing matches are rare in Far West Texas. The next local bout is June 27 in Alpine.