Fight Card in Kenner, Louisiana: Kim Messer vs. Yvonne Caples – by Sue TL Fox/Ringside

In February of 2000, I had an opportunity to cover an all-women’s fight card in Kenner, Louisiana (February 11, 2000).  My first contact with some of the female boxers, Marsha Valley and Kim Messer was at the Sea-Tac International Airport.  When I arrived at the host hotel and met up with all of the female boxers, I noticed immediately that it was a comraderie among these talented athletics.

Photo Credits/Copyrighted:  WBAN/Sue TL Fox (Valley-L/Messer-R)

I had the opportunity to travel to and from Louisiana with Kim and Mark  Messer, and it was relatively low-key with Kim not saying much about her opponent, but about her wanting to do her best and that she had prepared for the match with Yvonne Caples.

Photo Credits/Copyrighted:  WBAN/Sue TL Fox (Trainer/Yvonne Caples)

When I spoke to Caples and her trainer, he made it clear that Caples was not only going to defeat Messer, but that there would be a KO.  During that conversation, I mentioned mismatches, and he told me the following:    He said that I would be calling the Caples match with Messer a mismatch after the fight, and he then added, “And, you can quote me on that.”

The fight……In the first round, both fighters appeared to be filling each other out, and  Messer would slip punches thrown by Caples. Caples would throw out a nice jab, but it was thrown with caution.

Second round, The action picked up, and Messer came out punching.  Messer was the aggressor and was warned once for holding.  Messer threw some good body shots, and Caples did not seen to know how to handle’s Messer’s aggressive style.

Third round, Caples came out much more stronger, but Messer did not back down.  Caples would back away from Messer, and she was dropping her hands on occasions.

Fourth round, Messer took more command of the fight, but Caples would slip punches that Messer was throwing.

Fifth round – Six round, Caples comes out very strong, but not very effective the last two rounds, and then burns out after about one minute.  Messer handles Caples, and her skills and experience shine through.  Messer  won by a unanimous decision 58-56.

This fight was a very good bout.  Lots of action, mostly from Messer. Caples has a lot of potential, and I would like to see her rematch with Messer when she gains more experience.   Messer is definitely and has been ready for a title shot.  Hopefully, boxing fans will see Messer fight for a title next time she is on a card!