The Neutral Corner

The 24/7 series on HBO has been fantastic. However, this is the first time the network will launch the series without Floyd Mayweather Jr. (cast as the obnoxious villain) and his dysfunctional family to keep us entertained.

Forget the boxing. Can Calzaghe-Jones measure up in the arena of entertainment?

Best Roy Jones Jr. quote: "If I lose on the 8th, who cares, but if he loses, his streak has ended. So who is the pressure on?"

Best Joe Calzaghe quote: "Hey, come on, give me my food, woman. I'm hungry."

Father knows best? Both fighters were introduced to boxing by their fathers. Roy Jones Jr. parted ways professionally with his dad about 15 years ago. Enzo Calzaghe remains in his son's corner. Enzo was a jazz musician and had no prior boxing experience. Roy Jones Sr. was a pro middleweight who once fought Marvin Hagler.

Best training scene: The medicine ball pounding into Calzaghe's midsection.

Camp contrasts: At the Jones camp they shoot rifles or cross bows during leisure time. At the Calzaghe camp they drink tea and play video games.

Best supporting cast: Alfie Smith (whose job it is to slap box with Jones) and Calzaghe's girlfriend Jo Emma Lavin (for the obvious reason, and she cooks!)

Channeling Floyd Mayweather Jr.: When Roy Jones Jr. said he had, "skills impeccable to none." Huh?

Narrator: In the history of the spoken word, has there ever been anyone better at narration than HBO's Liev Schreiber? Maybe John Facenda of NFL Films fame. Maybe.

The scenic view: The establishing shots in Wales and California, PA, were outstanding. Beautiful work by HBO's camera crew.

The second episode airs next Sunday at 8:30 p.m. Check back here for another 24/7 report.

-- CASSIDY