The Order of the Fighting Fathers

Must add Marty Lawrance's very gracious comments about our fight - sent to me via Facebook two days after the event:

"hey Dave, you know the more i think about our contest the more i realise how many body shots you scored but did not earn points for. I dont recall feeling that i landed any of my shots sweet at all and wonder where all my points came from. You know how to roll with the punches mate.

I injured my left hand a couple of months before the masters started and had to nurse it right up till the fight and it gave me no trouble on the night but never before have i had to lead up to a fight with no sparing which was new for me.

Thanks for the tip on my change of stance during the bout and how it effected you. Makes a lot of sense now i see. Had sweaty palms the whole day of our scheduled bout but have learned to cope with the mental side of things over the years as you too must of.

Looking at yr web site Slide show was great, you are amazing. I recall too how strong you were when you had me on the ropes or in the corner at holding me there. Head on my chest, legs positioned, and there was no budging you, and in such a way that i was unable to land any power shots on you.

I think the score was wrong but felt i maybe did enough to win on a split decision . Its 2 nights after our bout now and i am a fair bit tight in the arms and shoulders due to no sparing to condition myself for our duel. Thank the lord i did not have to meet you in a dark alley where you could kick and use yr other skills. I will definitely look you up if i ever get to Sydney for that beer"

What a great guy, and what a great competitor! There's no doubt that he won that fight fair and square, but I take more pride from losing to Marty Lawrence than I do from any number of wins I've enjoyed. :)