Jackie Kallen: Should James Toney Still Be Fighting?

801

By Jackie Kallen

Because I managed James Toney for six years and we basically put each other on the map, people feel obliged to ask me my opinion of his career. They have been asking me ever since he lost to little-known Drake Thadzi back in 1997. They asked when he was about to fight Holyfield back in 2003 and they asked again when Toney tested positive for “banned substances” after his fight with John Ruiz in 2005.

photo.jpg

I usually say the same thing: “It’s his life, his career, and his decision.”

Lately, though, fight fans have been dissatisfied with that response and they will usually press me further.

“Don’t you care about his health? He can barely speak now.”

To all of you who seem concerned about the status of JT’s health–I assure you that I share the same concerns. James was like a son to me for many years and I will always have a soft spot for him in my heart. And I definitely do worry about his overall mental and physical condition.

I am aware of the fact that at the age of 44 and a veteran of 86 fights, James is showing some wear and tear. His enunciation is not as sharp as it once was and his punches aren’t either. He suffered two consecutive losses to Samuel Peter in 2006 and 2007 and then lost to Denis Lebedev in Russian in late 2011.

No one would argue that the James Toney who is heading to Australia next month to face Lucas Browne is a shadow of his former self. That is a given. And it’s a another fact that he is fighting a 6’4′, undefeated heavyweight with a 93% KO ratio. That is scary.

Inactivity is a bad thing for boxers. James only fought once in 2012, twice in 2011, zero times in 2010 and once in 2009. Not a lot of action. He was always at his best when he was busy. I realize that it is harder to stay busy in your forties with many commissions blocking your attempts to compete. But ring rust is still a problem for fighters and more so for older ones.

Despite all the negatives, I believe that James Toney (like Bernard Hopkins and other “older” boxers) has the right to pursue a living. Boxing is all James knows and he loves it. He has always been one of those guys who enjoys training and gets a high from beating people up. It is his life.

Do I wish he’d find another–safer–way to make a living? Of course. But everyone has the free will to make their own choices and James Toney chooses to fight. He has never been knocked out in 646 rounds of professional boxing and he still feels like he has the fire and desire.

At this stage in his career, all I can do is wish him well. I am sure that he and his family have discussed it and hopefully when the people around him feel it is time to quit–he will agree. In the meantime, maybe he will teach Mr. Browne a few lessons. In any case, he will get a nice trip to beautiful Melbourne.

Jackie Kallen is a boxing manager who has been in the business for over three decades. Her life inspired the Meg Ryan film “Against the Ropes” and she was a part of the NBC series “The Contender.” www.JackieKallen.com, www.facebook.com/JackieKallen

801 Comments

  1. droversointeru
    11/04/2024,

    Some really interesting points you have written.Helped me a lot, just what I was searching for : D.

  11. MonteEduct
    03/24/2025,

    buying prescription drugs from india IndiaMedFast.com lowest prescription prices online india

  32. Elder Law Attorneys
    03/26/2025,

    Looking for expert guidance on protecting assets while qualifying for Medicaid? As experienced elder law attorneys near me, our team at Ohio Medicaid Lawyers provides specialized legal assistance with Medicaid planning, estate planning, and asset protection strategies. We help seniors understand medicaid eligibility income charts and navigate the complex 5-year lookback period. Visit our website for comprehensive information about Ohio medicaid income limits 2024 and schedule a consultation with a trusted elder care attorney who can safeguard your future.

  77. Michaelheago
    04/01/2025,

    Online apotheek Nederland met recept: online apotheek – Betrouwbare online apotheek zonder recept

  145. Robertglarp
    04/09/2025,

    pacanele online: casibom resmi – canlД± casino bahis siteleri casibom1st.com

  150. Robertglarp
    04/10/2025,

    sweet bonanza siteleri: sweet bonanza – sweet bonanza siteleri sweetbonanza1st.shop

  153. BradyAduck
    04/10/2025,

    sweet bonanza yorumlar: sweet bonanza – sweet bonanza yorumlar sweetbonanza1st.shop

  155. WeldonCob
    04/10/2025,

    deneme bonus siteler: casibom – oyun inceleme siteleri casibom1st.com

  162. Robertglarp
    04/11/2025,

    2025 yatД±rД±m ЕџartsД±z deneme bonusu veren siteler: casibom giris – Г§evrim ЕџartsД±z deneme bonusu veren siteler 2025 casibom1st.com

  247. Bradleyeages
    04/24/2025,

    Acheter Cialis: cialis prix – Acheter Cialis 20 mg pas cher tadalmed.shop

  265. Bradleyeages
    04/26/2025,

    Cialis generique prix: cialis prix – Cialis generique prix tadalmed.shop

  274. BillieRef
    04/26/2025,

    Acheter Cialis: cialis prix – Cialis sans ordonnance pas cher tadalmed.shop

  283. Bernardactit
    04/28/2025,

    Pharmacie en ligne livraison Europe: pharmacie en ligne – pharmacie en ligne sans ordonnance pharmafst.com

  303. RichardSmatt
    04/30/2025,

    вавада официальный сайт vavada vavada casino

  333. KennethSnind
    05/03/2025,

    pin-up casino giris: pin up – pin up azerbaycan

  350. ElmerDaw
    05/05/2025,

    pin-up casino giris: pin up – pin-up casino giris

  359. KennethSnind
    05/06/2025,

    пин ап казино официальный сайт: пин ап казино – пин ап казино официальный сайт

  392. Lorenzoexisk
    05/10/2025,

    Modafinil for sale [url=http://modafinilmd.store/#]Modafinil for sale[/url] modafinil 2025

  408. Oscardaf
    05/12/2025,

    where buy generic clomid online: Clom Health – buying clomid prices

  410. RussellEdups
    05/12/2025,

    cost generic clomid no prescription: Clom Health – can you get clomid

  412. MatthewHacle
    05/12/2025,

    can i buy prednisone over the counter in usa PredniHealth PredniHealth

  415. RussellEdups
    05/12/2025,

    can i purchase generic clomid: Clom Health – buying cheap clomid no prescription

  432. RussellEdups
    05/13/2025,

    cost cheap clomid: Clom Health – can you get generic clomid tablets

  435. LorenBonee
    05/14/2025,

    cialis super active plus: TadalAccess – tadalafil long term usage

  456. JosephLaf
    05/16/2025,

    tadalafil troche reviews TadalAccess tadalafil from nootropic review

  461. LorenBonee
    05/16/2025,

    canadian online pharmacy no prescription cialis dapoxetine: TadalAccess – buying cialis without prescription

  478. ScottCug
    05/18/2025,

    u.s. pharmacy prices for cialis: TadalAccess – cialis dosage side effects

  484. LorenBonee
    05/19/2025,

    buy cialis with dapoxetine in canada: TadalAccess – cialis once a day

  491. Jerrysoype
    05/20/2025,

    At pre-eminent, I was skeptical less https://joyorganics.com/products/cbd-sleep-gummies , but in the present circumstances I provision them in my nightstand. They’ve evolve into neighbourhood of my evening habitual—one gummy, a cup of tea, and I’m good to go. I don’t perceive exorbitant or freaky, hardly calm and on the brink of to nonsense down. The flavor’s absolutely in actuality good too, which surprised me. No unnatural aftertaste like some others I’ve tried. If your brain runs a mile a pint-sized at cimmerian dark or you’re just tough to ease after farm, these are for all value checking out.

  497. LorenBonee
    05/20/2025,

    cialis for daily use side effects: TadalAccess – prescription for cialis

  516. JosephLaf
    05/23/2025,

    when will teva’s generic tadalafil be available in pharmacies Tadal Access tadalafil tamsulosin combination

  520. LorenBonee
    05/23/2025,

    reddit cialis: Tadal Access – how long does it take for cialis to take effect

  523. LorenBonee
    05/24/2025,

    comprar tadalafil 40 mg en walmart sin receta houston texas: Tadal Access – cialis street price

  527. Charlesoxive
    05/27/2025,

    buy antibiotics from canada: Biot Pharm – Over the counter antibiotics for infection

  530. RodneyLog
    05/27/2025,

    buy antibiotics over the counter Biot Pharm buy antibiotics for uti

  532. RodneyLog
    05/28/2025,

    Pharm Au 24 [url=https://pharmau24.shop/#]online pharmacy australia[/url] Licensed online pharmacy AU

  534. lyltjicck
    05/28/2025,

    After your first deposit at 1win, every new user from India can get 500% up to INR 145,000 on their bonus balance. You will receive a cashback of 1% to 30% of the money you lose at our casino games during the week, including when playing Space XY. The percentage of the cashback depends on how much money you lose during the week. Space XY is a minimalistic game with a main theme of space. When opening the game you are greeted by the logo of BGaming, and after that, you see a black graph with two coordinate axes: X and У. The horizontal X-axis represents the time that the current round lasts, while Y-axis represents the evergrowing multiplier of your bet. At the left corner of the graph is a 2D model of the rocket that will start its journey as soon as the round begins. The game process is accompanied by a relaxing melody and the sound of a flying rocket.
    https://stratos-ad.com/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=62302
    Sports Interactive Ltd, 27 Great West Road, Brentford, Middlesex, UK, TW8 9BW Overall, the new version of the NFL app has a much more refreshed and modern look, making it easier for all fans to find the most exciting games and content. NFL Network and NFL RedZone are available to stream on an authenticated basis for eligible subscribers of Cox, DirecTV, DISH, Verizon Fios, FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, Optimum, Sling, Spectrum, Xfinity, YouTubeTV, and more! It’s exactly eight years since one of El Clásico’s most iconic moments.Lionel Messi’s record-breaking career at Barcelona brought plenty of indelible memories against Real Madrid.But one of the very best… When in doubt about how to develop the player, you can use the function to automatically allocate his Points. ✝︎✝︎Conditions, limitations and exclusions apply. See tos.ea legalapp eaplay US en PC for details.

  535. JosephMom
    05/28/2025,

    Over the counter antibiotics for infection: BiotPharm – buy antibiotics for uti

  545. Curtisfline
    05/29/2025,

    buy antibiotics for uti: Biot Pharm – Over the counter antibiotics pills

  561. lsfxfkuym
    05/30/2025,

    Non. Vous pouvez vous connecter avec votre compte sur autant d’appareils que vous le souhaitez, mais en les utilisant à des moments différents. Imagine this: you’re facing off against a virtual goalie. The tension is palpable. You decide where to kick, and BAM! A video visualization shows your attempt. Score, and you get +1 to your rating. Save a goal? Boom! +5 to your rating. It’s simple, it’s addictive, and it’s a fantastic way to kill time or challenge your friends. Bénéficiez d’une livraison premium pour cette commande avec Amazon Prime, gratuitement pendant 30 jours. Après l’essai, vous ne payez que 2,99 € par mois. Annulez à tout moment. From opponents scoring own goals to victorious penalty shoot-outs, it seemed as if there was always going to be an element in this Euro that would come to the French team’s rescue, camouflage the weaknesses in their game and get them out of the sticky situations into which their inefficiency was plunging them. But there was nothing of the sort in this semi-final. Just the implacable observation of Spanish superiority in terms of physical freshness, richness of play and collective maturity.
    https://linagarrido.co/penalty-shoot-out-devoplay-analyse-approfondie-pour-les-joueurs-francais-en-2025/
    Atterrissez dans les ruelles déjantées de Penalty Shoot-out : Street ! Ce mini-jeu vous catapulte dans le tourbillon du football brésilien. Dans cette dimension, vous êtes une star du ballon rond, rappelez-vous-en ! Ne considérez pas le casino comme un moyen de gagner de l’argent. Jouez au casino pour le plaisir et ne déposez que ce que vous pouvez vous permettre de perdre. Le casino est un jeu avant tout. While penalties are the main focus, our game also offers a variety of other football-related challenges, including free kicks, strikes, and more. Immerse yourself in the world of football as you perfect your shooting skills from different angles and distances, becoming the ultimate football striker. Pour remporter le plus gros gain au Penalty Shoot Out Casino, vous devez réussir les cinq penalties contre le gardien. Le multiplicateur x32 est le plus difficile à obtenir, car un seul arrêt du gardien peut anéantir vos espoirs. Avec seulement 3% de chances de succès, nous conseillons aux joueurs de ne pas miser plus de 1% de leur solde total par match pour viser le jackpot sur le long terme. Par exemple, si vous jouez avec $100, il est préférable de placer des paris $1 sur plusieurs tours pour augmenter vos chances de décrocher le jackpot.

  609. qtghtbqny
    06/02/2025,

    For more gaming excitement, don’t miss our thrilling aviator betting game. Challenge yourself and put your luck to the test in this exciting opportunity to earn money. Gurukula Kangri (Deemed to be University) was founded on March 4, 1902 by Swami Shraddhanandaji with the sole aim to revive the ancient Indian Gurukula System of education, on the bank of Ganges at a distance of about 6 km. from Hardwar and about 200 km. from Delhi. This institution was established with the objective of providing an indigenous alternative to Lord Macaulay’s education policy by imparting education in the areas of vedic literature, Indian philosophy, Indian culture, modern sciences and research.It is a deemed to be university fully funded by UGC Govt. of India. Bouncing-ball game show with Crazy Time’s Bonus games!
    https://fsafresno.com/2025/05/28/why-3patti-new-entries-in-the-app-store-are-falling-short-except-one/
    A full version app for Android, by Wanderlost Interactive. An appropriate evening-wear. We’ve put together an extensive list of the best 19 Dragon vs. Tiger apps available in India along with their free rummy bonus offer. These apps offer a fun card game experience where you can show off your skills and compete against others for rewards. Before we get started, let’s take a look at the top Dragon vs. Tiger apps in India based on their downloads and user ratings on the Google Play Store. You can find all the details in the table below. Memorial Day Sale! Buy 2 or More Tickets for $39.99 Each! We’ve put together an extensive list of the best 19 Dragon vs. Tiger apps available in India along with their free rummy bonus offer. These apps offer a fun card game experience where you can show off your skills and compete against others for rewards. Before we get started, let’s take a look at the top Dragon vs. Tiger apps in India based on their downloads and user ratings on the Google Play Store. You can find all the details in the table below.

  616. WilliamSkaws
    06/02/2025,

    se puede comprar adventan sin receta: Confia Pharma – comprar sintrom sin receta

  647. BradleyBrack
    06/03/2025,

    se puede comprar cialis sin receta en farmacia en andorra Confia Pharma se puede comprar tretinoina sin receta

  648. JosephThymn
    06/04/2025,

    rage de dent medicament sans ordonnance: jasmine generique – mГ©dicament infection urinaire sans ordonnance en pharmacie

  658. Michaelcroda
    06/04/2025,

    se puede comprar ovulos sin receta: Confia Pharma – se puede comprar nutrasona sin receta

  665. Charlesjex
    06/05/2025,

    on line mexican pharmacy: Pharm Mex – is mexipharmacy legit

  672. RandallLurnE
    06/05/2025,

    mexican pharmacy stores near me: Pharm Mex – drugs from mexico

  674. Rogernuh
    06/05/2025,

    order medicine from mexico: Pharm Mex – mexican pharmacy phone numbers

  675. RandallLurnE
    06/05/2025,

    pharmacy usa online: Pharm Mex – tramadol mexican pharmacy

  676. Matthewscese
    06/05/2025,

    mexican pharmacy pomona Pharm Mex pharmacy in mexico city

  683. Matthewscese
    06/06/2025,

    india online pharmacy market InPharm24 doctor of pharmacy in india

  689. mumyudqet
    06/06/2025,

    Few people know, but there is also an online casino on Parimatch. It is completely legal in India and does not differ in quality from many other platforms based only on the online casino industry. There are other bonuses and offers for Parimatch Casino, so do not think that you will not be able to benefit from the bonuses. In addition to the welcome offer, there are also many other bonuses, such as Reload, cashback, loyalty system, daily offers, and more. So if you haven’t tried the online casino yet, then this can diversify your pastime on the site well. JetX predictor apps can help players make informed decisions while playing the JetX game. Once you have used your JetX promo code, give these apps a chance: PLAY RESPONSIBLY: jetxgame is an independent site with no connection to the websites we promote. Before you go to a casino or make a bet, you must ensure that you fulfil all ages and other legal criteria. jetxgame goal is to provide informative and entertaining material. It is offered only for the purpose of informative educational education. If you click on these links, you will be leaving this website.
    https://lobulo.ec/browser-compatibility-with-lucky-jet-what-works-best/
    When you first open Tiranga Games, you will notice how intuitive and organized the interface is. Instead of cluttered screens or confusing menus, you will find a clear setup that allows you to start playing right away. Each category of games is neatly labeled, and it is simple to navigate from one part of the app to another. You do not need to be a tech expert to figure out how to join tournaments or check current leaderboards. This simplicity is a welcome change from many other apps that can feel complicated. Tiranga Games removes distractions so you can focus on having a good time. Aadhaar Card Bank Balance Kaise Check Kare : भारत में AEPS का मतलब “आधार सक्षम भुगतान प्रणाली” है। यह एक ऐसी प्रणाली है जो आधार…

  711. BrandonHom
    06/07/2025,

    generic sildenafil 92630 VGR Sources generic viagra online no prescription

  716. Jamesstole
    06/08/2025,

    buy cheap viagra generic online: VGR Sources – canadian pharmacy viagra paypal

  719. Briancep
    06/08/2025,

    viagra 50 mg tablet buy online: VGR Sources – canadian pharmacy viagra 50 mg

  721. BrandonHom
    06/08/2025,

    buy viagra online cheap no prescription VGR Sources viagra super force

  734. Billyphone
    06/09/2025,

    best over the counter viagra pill: VGR Sources – where to buy viagra pills

  737. hqlnsclbc
    06/09/2025,

    JetX, provided by Mostbet, is a thrilling game where players predict the flight height of a jet before it explodes. Here’s a brief guide to the rules: Continue reading for more blackjack history facts, slot jetx by smartsoft gaming demo free play and it boiled over following the end of the fight. Then, it is fresh. Published by various developers, we recommend checking our guide to the UK’s top slot sites to find the best casinos and bonus offers. Continue reading for more blackjack history facts, slot jetx by smartsoft gaming demo free play and it boiled over following the end of the fight. Then, it is fresh. Published by various developers, we recommend checking our guide to the UK’s top slot sites to find the best casinos and bonus offers. JetX is an unrivaled new online game from one of the best online gaming software developers SmartSoft Gaming that you should play at Parimatch immediately! Unlike the vast majority of other games, this game has no limit on winnings, which is sure to please any gambler from Tanzania. Well, there are still enough risks in the game, and most of it is based on luck, but some strategies and tips can bring you success. Let’s find out how to do it right now!
    https://enginedirect.co.uk/index.php/2025/06/04/site-reliability-for-mines-game-free-top-platforms-compared/
    Oreta provides technology solutions within the cloud, network, and security sectors. The company offers services including cloud adoption and management, network performance enhancement, and cybersecurity solutions. Oreta serves various sectors by delivering advisory, delivery, and managed services. It is based in Melbourne, Victoria. Aviatrix’s new channel program is a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and customer success. By simplifying cloud networking and fostering strategic partnerships, Aviatrix is enabling enterprises to navigate the complexities of multi-cloud environments. Kanchana: My experience as a head teacher, a lecturer and being a pilot with the friends and networks I made really helped me to set up the project. It is a community interest company and I have support from other aviation organisations such as easyJet, The British Women Pilots Association and a number of flying clubs and schools.

  743. Billyphone
    06/09/2025,

    where to get female viagra uk: VGR Sources – sildenafil soft tabs generic

  744. Jamesstole
    06/09/2025,

    canadian prices for sildenafil: VGR Sources – cheap viagra generic canada

  756. hzsudpdnl
    06/10/2025,

    In Softonic we scan all the files hosted on our platform to assess and avoid any potential harm for your device. Our team performs checks each time a new file is uploaded and periodically reviews files to confirm or update their status. This comprehensive process allows us to set a status for any downloadable file as follows: JetX offers a unique multiplayer experience, allowing you to bet alongside hundreds or thousands of other players on the same flight. This shared gaming experience adds an exciting social element as you observe the choices of others and decide on your strategy. No matter which bonus you choose, always read the rules and make sure you understand the rules of the bonus wagering process. Knowing what to do once the bonus lands, is a job half done! So if you play wisely and take some of our expert advice into account, you’ll be able to boost your chances of victory and make playing the JetX rocket game a more exciting and enjoyable experience overall.”
    https://turtlecovebeachestates.com/aviator-bet-vs-winner-aviator-honest-comparison-for-rwandan-players/
    The JetX casino game is one of the simplest and easiest to use. Due to this, it has become popular among a large number of users. To start playing JetX you will need to learn about the basic concepts of the game. The basics of the game JetX: The well-known Jet X game, developed by SmartSoft Gaming, was released in 2020 and is now available in desktop and mobile versions at the best Indian online casinos. This online slot is based on the idea of crash games, where the objective is to withdraw earnings as soon as possible with the best odds before the round is over. Due to its simple betting structure and potential for winning up to 2630820 INR, Jet X has grown to be one of the most popular games among gamblers in India. Download the official Parimatch India app and feed the entire world of online casino gaming into your smartphone. Our app is available for every Android device. Just get the APK file and install it on your mobile phone or tablet. Once done, you’ll be able to choose from a vast library of 12000+ games from 100+ top-tier providers and play them anytime, anywhere. 

  780. Alfonsodiz
    06/11/2025,

    rosuvastatin and tendon rupture: CrestorPharm – can you take turmeric with rosuvastatin

  783. FrankCalay
    06/11/2025,

    Affordable cholesterol-lowering pills: CrestorPharm – Crestor home delivery USA

  785. AlbertoKit
    06/11/2025,

    can crestor cause heart palpitations Crestor Pharm No doctor visit required statins

  787. Alfonsodiz
    06/12/2025,

    lipitor and depression: Lipi Pharm – Cheap Lipitor 10mg / 20mg / 40mg

  789. BillyTah
    06/12/2025,

    what does atorvastatin calcium do: LipiPharm – can i take vitamin k2 with atorvastatin

  796. Alfonsodiz
    06/12/2025,

    does rosuvastatin raise blood pressure: Crestor Pharm – Generic Crestor for high cholesterol

  797. AlbertoKit
    06/12/2025,

    Lipi Pharm Lipi Pharm best time to take atorvastatin and clopidogrel

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *