Foreman Missing a Few Pounds; Foe Just Plain Missing

Former heavyweight champion George Foreman had a surprise at the weigh-in today for his fight with Terry Anderson. He weighed 259 pounds, about six pounds less than expected.

Anderson also had a surprise. He failed to show for the weigh-in and faces a fine.

The two Americans were scheduled to meet at the London Arena later today with Foreman, 42, aiming for his 24th straight victory since he returned to the ring three years ago.

John Morris, secretary of the British Boxing Board of Control, said: “Anderson will now have to weigh in tonight and the board will consider a fine because of his discourtesy.”

Anderson was understood to have been waiting at his hotel six miles away for his management team to arrive. But fight officials told him to get in a cab on his own as the deadline for the weigh-in approached. He still did not make it.

Foreman was six pounds lighter than he had indicated when he arrived in London, despite boasts that he had been eating large meals.

Anderson, a 30-year-old with three defeats on a 22-fight record, was a substitute opponent. He replaced Argentina’s Walter Masseroni, who pulled out without giving a reason, and the fighter from Tampa, Fla., was expected to join those 23 others on the vanquished list.

Foreman says he wants back the world title he held from January, 1973, until he was knocked out by Muhammed Ali in October, 1974. A deal reportedly has been reached for Foreman to fight Evander Holyfield if Holyfield can defeat undisputed champion James (Buster) Douglas in October.

“Come and see one of the wonders of the world,” Foreman said. “Not only a man who has been an Olympic gold medalist (in Mexico in 1968) and a former heavyweight champion of the world, but also a future heavyweight champion of the world.

“A man who eats anything he wants and who sleeps all he wants. I hit hard and I’m as sneaky as a lizard.”