In Rusty’s Corner

Glad to be back after a short absence. Fortunately, for me, but not for boxing, I did not miss very much of importance. On Feb. 4, at the Alamodome in San Antonio, what shapes up to be a great doubleheader takes place and one that will be shown on HBO. In one match,, for the WBC middleweight crown heavy-fisted Marco Antonio Rubio puts his record of 53-5 1 (46) against fast and undefeated champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. 44-0-1 (31). MORE

Delvin Rodriguez-Pawel Wolak I
Boxing Writers 2011 Fight of the Year

BRONX, NY (January 31, 2012) - Honors keep rolling in for Star Boxing's world ranked Junior Middleweight Delvin Rodriguez, the latest being yesterday's announcement by the Boxing Writers Association of America ("BWAA") that last July 17th Star Boxing-promoted event between Rodriguez and Pawel Wolak, aired live on ESPN Friday Night Fights, had been selected as the BWAA Fight of the Year. MORE

Miranda Promises Chilemba 'Long Flight Back to Africa'

"Everyone has a game plan until they get hit," laughs hard-hitting light heavyweight contender Edison "Pantera" Miranda. Miranda (35-6, 30 KOs) is responding to pre-fight interviews with South Africa's WBC #6, WBA #13, and WBO #14-rated Isaac "Golden Boy" Chilemba, whom he will face in the 10-round light heavyweight main event of this Friday's (February 3) ESPN Friday Night Fights broadcast from the Dallas Events Center at the Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel in Las Vegas. MORE

Margules Congratulates Prescott
for Knockout Victory

Leon Margules of Warriors Boxing wishes to congratulate his fighter, super lightweight contender Breidis "The Khanqueror" Prescott (25-4, 20 KOs), for his KO 3 over Joel Cassiani at Coliseo Cubierto in Puerto Colombia, Colombia, on Friday night. With the victory, Prescott, from Barranquilla, Colombia, and now living in Miami, Florida, climbed back in the victory column after two tough losses to top world-title contenders. MORE

WBC Appreciates Mercante Award

The World Boxing Council is very pleased and proud to see that Arthur Mercante is being honored as one of the posthumous inductees at the first annual induction ceremony of the New York State Hall of Fame for Boxing. Arthur was simply the greatest referee who ever lived. He was also the Chairman of the WBC Ring Officials Committee for many, many years, as well as a loyal and unforgettable friend. He was like a brother to me. The induction ceremony will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 1, at Russo’s on the Bay, located at 162-45 Cross Bay Boulevard in Howard Beach, New York.”

Hitz Boxing's 'Fight Night at the Horseshoe' Series Continues February 18

The next installment of Hitz Boxing's wildly popular "Fight Night at the Horseshoe" series will be held on Saturday, February 18, 2012, at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana, featuring heavyweight contender "Merciless" Mike Mollo (20-3-1, 12 KOs) of Oak Lawn, Illinois; NABA-US Champion Yakubu "Black Mamba" Amidu (20-2-1, 18 KOs) of Los Angeles via Ghana; Vladikavkaz, Russia's undefeated welterweight prospect Alanbek Kozaev (19-0, 6 KOs); the unveiling of newly signed Cleveland-based junior welterweight prospect Prenice "Greatness" Brewer (16-1-1, 6 KOs); and a host of local favorites and warriors who have earned their spots through previous strong performances. MORE

Team Sergio Hires Crudele as
Camp Coordinator

Fitness guru and reality television star Marcelo Crudele has been named new camp coordinator for WBC Diamond Middleweight Champion Sergio "Maravilla" Martinez.

Caracas, Venezuela-born Crudele, 40, is a cast member of the Univision reality show "Dale con Ganas", a licensed USA Boxing coach and Founder and Executive Trainer of Train Me Right Boxing & Fitness in Venice, California.

Martinez is currently in training for a March 17 title defense against England's Matthew Macklin at Madison Square Garden in New York.

World Boxing Council News

HOOK TO THE BODY

I feel the need today of talking briefly about me. Every human being, as modest or powerful as he might be, has his natural reactions of happiness or sadness, of tranquility or depression. The problems of a dignitary are felt the same as those of lower levels of life. I have felt them all in boxing, feeling just the same nervousness of a six-round boxer or a champion when going into the ring. Raton Macías used to tell me of the feeling in his stomach when walking into the ring until the time that the bell rang, in fear of not responding to the fans. MORE

Super Middleweight Prospect Added to Already Stacked Texas Station 'Superbrawls'!

Future super middleweight world champion Roberto Jose Acevedo has been added to the undercard of the already stacked "Superbrawls" boxing event on Friday, February 3, at the Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel in Las Vegas and televised live on ESPN Friday Night Fights.

Acevedo (2-0, 1 KO) will appear on the undercard in support of the 10-round light heavyweight main event between Colombian powerhouse Edison "Pantera" Miranda and South Africa's WBC #6, WBA #13, and WBO #14-rated Isaac "Golden Boy" Chilemba.

Tickets for "Super Brawls" are priced at $25 and $50 and are available at Ticketmaster, any Texas Station rewards center or at Stationcasinos.com/concerts. A few VIP seats are available at a price of $100. Please call (954) 985-1155. MORE

'Fist of Fury' on February 11

Savarese Promotions is pleased to announce that we are coming back to the Houston Athletic Fencing Center, with our event; “Fist of Fury” on February 11th, 2012.

Promising to be a night to remember, “Fist of Fury” will exhibit incredible talent from the local and surrounding area. Featuring Nagy Aguilera the knock out artist who after a couple disappointing finishes is determent to get his boxing carrier back on track and impress the boxing community. MORE

Al Bernstein to Emcee Berto-Ortiz
After-Party

Showtime’s Hall of Fame broadcaster Al Bernstein will emcee a special Fight Night Afterparty at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, following the much anticipated rematch between Andre Berto-Victor Ortiz. Bernstein and other boxing celebrities will be on hand at this event presented by Corporate Planners, Unlimited. For information on attending the party log on to www.FightNightAfterparty.com.

Bernstein, who will call the match on television for Showtime Networks, will meet and greet party guests and emcee the post-fight program that will include him and other boxing celebrities offering their analysis of the fight. Party attendees will also be able to participate with their questions and opinions. “This kind of interactive, fun experience immediately following a big fight is something that has been missing for boxing fans,” Bernstein said. “I am so happy to be a part of this concept that Corporate Planners, Unlimited has created. CPU is the champion when it comes to creating excellent events. This is an easily accessible and intimate party that will greatly enhance the fans’ experience that night. I am looking forward to meeting the fans and talking to them about this great match right after it happens,” he added. MORE

Epix to Unify the World
Heavyweight Titles!

The Klitschko Brothers and Povetkin to Defend Their Belts
on Three Consecutive Saturdays, Beginning Feb. 18.

EPIX and EpixHD.com
Snag Exclusive U.S. Rights for Live Telecasts

They may not be stepping into the same ring to unify their titles but their upcoming title defenses will be televised live in the U.S. on the same network.

World heavyweight champions VITALI KLITSCHKO, ALEXANDER POVETKIN and WLADIMIR KLITSCHKO will defend their respective championship crowns over three consecutive weeks, beginning February 18, and all three world heavyweight title fights will be televised live in the U.S. exclusively on EPIX, the multiplatform premium entertainment service. EpixHD.com will stream the fights live as part of a special free trial offer for boxing fans. MORE

MSG to Re-Broadcast Algieri/Jargal Clash at 10 PM on Wednesday Night

Just days ahead of his upcoming return this Saturday, January 28th at the Paramount Theater in Huntington, Long Island, undefeated junior welterweight Chris Algieri will be featured on the MSG network with a replay of his clash with Bayan Jargal from this past November 19th.

The re-broadcast will air on Wednesday, January 25th at 10 p.m. and on Thursday, January 26th at 1 p.m. on MSG +. Additional Comcast networks across the country will also be re-airing the fight this week.

In front of a sold out hometown crowd, Algieri looked sensational, skillfully boxing his way to a dominant 10-round decision against the heavy-handed Jargal, as he raised his record to 12-0 with six knockouts.

Presented by Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing, this Saturday night, Algieri will face off against rugged Atlanta, Georgia based veteran Curtis Smith in the main event of the ROCKIN' FIGHTS professional boxing card. MORE

Demetrius Andrade Following Plan

Undefeated 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius "Boo Boo" Andrade believes his February 10 main-event fight against former USBA junior middleweight champion Derek "Pooh" Ennis, for the vacant North American Boxing Organization ("NABO") junior middleweight title, is a continuation of a well designed plan, eventually landing him a world title fight later this year or in early 2013.

With world title belt implications for the winner, Andrade-Ennis headlines the Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing show on ESPN Friday Night Fights at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut. MORE

Isaac ‘Golden Boy’ Chilemba
Is Ready To Go To War with Edison Miranda

When South Africa's world ranked light heavyweight contender, Isaac "Golden Boy" Chilemba (18-1-1, 9 KOs), steps in the ring on February 3, 2012 against Edison "Pantera" Miranda (35-6, 30 KO's), he's going to have bad intentions on his mind.

Chilemba, DiBella Entertainment's rising star, went on to say, "I have a great deal of respect Edison Miranda, he's a worthy opponent, but I'm coming to make a statement come fight night. There is no room for error, and I'm not going to leave it up to the judges to decide the outcome. Make no mistake about it...I'm gunning for a knockout." MORE

Full Card Announced for Boxing at
Hilton Garden Inn in Staten Island

Act Now! Tickets are very nearly sold out!!!!

Tickets for "Championship Boxing at the Hilton Garden Inn" are available online at www.gcpboxing.com and www.NicotrasBallroom.com or by calling 888.612.4191. They are priced at General Admission $50, Ringside $150 and VIP Ringside $250, which includes pre-fight open bar and hot buffet.

The card has been finalized for the January 19 "Championship Boxing at the Hilton Garden Inn" at Nicotra's Ballroom in the Hilton Garden Inn in Staten Island, New York, presented by Greg Cohen Promotions and broadcast live on Internet broadcast pioneers www.gofightlive.tv. MORE

Go Daddy Steps into the Ring
as Presenting Sponsor for
NBC Sports Network Fight Night

Go Daddy will make its ring debut on Sat, Jan 21 as the presenting sponsor of NBC Sports Network Fight Night, its new boxing series featuring premier boxing talent, it was announced today.

Go Daddy, the world's largest provider of Web hosting, domain name registrations and net new SSL Certificates, cites the strong loyalty of boxing fans as one of its reasons for entering the squared circle.

Jon Miller, President, programming, NBC Sports and NBC Sports Network, said: "Go Daddy has been a great partner of ours and we're excited to team up with them to launch the Fight Night Series." MORE

Juanma Lopez and Orlando Salido
World Featherweight Title Rematch
Set for Saturday March 10

Live On SHOWTIME Championship Boxing® From Roberto Clemente Coliseum in San Juan
           
World Boxing Organization (WBO) featherweight champion ORLANDO “Siri” SALIDO and former WBO featherweight champion JUAN MANUEL “Juanma” LOPEZ will finally square off for their World Featherweight Championship rematch, Saturday, March 10. Their battle will be televised live from Roberto Clemente Coliseum in San Juan, P.R. on SHOWTIME Championship Boxing, beginning at 10 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast.) If the rematch is anything like their first rumble, more than palm trees will be swaying when these two warriors start throwing. The SHOWTIME telecast will open with undefeated No. 1 featherweight contender MIKEY GARCIA risking record and rating as well as his impending world title shot in a 10-round featherweight battle. MORE

‘No Doubt’ Trout Putting on his
Dancing Shoes

Las Cruces, New Mexico’s WBA World Champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout will be showing off the fancy footwork that has brought him to the cusp of boxing stardom when he competes in "Look Who’s Dancing" Amateur Ballroom Competition on Friday January 27 at Onate High School in Las Cruces.

Trout (24-0, 14 KOs) says he’s happy to help out the event, which is a fundraiser for the local dance academy.

“I have learned the Cha-Cha and the West Coast Swing for my performance,” he laughs. “It’s actually pretty fun and helps keep me busy – idle hands (or feet) are the devil’s playground.”

The dance contest starts at 7:00 pm.

See First 2012 Referee Controversy
on Boxing Channel

The well-fought but controversial WBO Light Middleweight Title match between Hanna Gabriels and Dakota Stone, televised live on Boxing Channel, on Saturday, Jan 7, is now available again for viewing. To see the fight and its controversial finish, go to Boxing Channel.

Gabriels successfully defended her crown with an 8th round TKO win, but the stoppage by referee Geno Rodriguez created uproar. MORE

Hook to the Body: The 70 Years
of Muhammad Ali

By Jose Sulaiman

I dedicate today’s column to Muhammad Ali, the greatest boxer that my eyes have seen in and out of the ring, on the occasion of his 70th birthday, which will be celebrated in a grandiose ceremony and dinner next month at the MGM which is becoming the cathedral of boxing in the world today, just as Caesars Palace was last century.

I let my mind fly towards those great years of my youth, when I was still a resident in the province of Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas, Mexico, when a young fighter, Cassius Clay, came out to the sport to win an Olympic light heavyweight gold medal in the Rome Olympic Games of 1960, the same medal that he threw into a river when he felt that far from recognition and applause of North American society, he had found discrimination and rejection. With his heart of a warrior and his pride hurt, he invaded professional boxing with a passion to fight for his race and show all that he would conquer glory as a social action to demonstrate the injustice thrown at him by this discriminatory sector of the society of his world - and do it with the power of his fists, the heart of a lion, and the satire of his tongue. This war of Ali against discrimination won me over immediately, as I had learned in my country the sense of human equality. MORE

Thoughts on UFC Promotion

Dane White may be one of the smartest promoters in the sporting world and yes, I have made this point before that boxing can learn from White. His latest promotion with Fox is just another example of White showing boxing how it can be done or maybe should be. First, Fox will promote a major UFC event Saturday night on the 28th and last Saturday night, he did a PPV event combined with Fox cable network FX. Preliminary bouts were shown on FX before the main events went to PPV broadcasting. What White has enhance the value of his PPV by encouraging fans to make an entire evening of watching MMA while introducing fans to up and coming fighters who may eventually be the future PPV stars. MORE

WPBF Ratings Published

Dear Members and Friends,

We are pleased to inform you, the World Professional Boxing Federation (WPBF) January's Men's/Women's Computerized World Rankings has now been published. The WPBF computerized rankings system is a completely objective, fair, scientific, accurate, independent and unbiased calculated based solely on the official results without subjective views or opinions involved. Welcome all of managers and promoters to find out where your respective boxers stand in world boxing's pecking order and how they are progressing. Please visit our official website www.wpbf-usbc.org ,so that you can keep up to date with News, Official Circulars, Computerized Rankings, Results, Schedule, Promotional opportunities and boxing in general. MORE

Despaigne Falls Out, Chilemba Jumps in to Face Miranda February 3 in Las Vegas

Claiming he is not "mentally ready" to fight, Cuban light heavyweight Yordanis Despaigne has withdrawn from his scheduled rematch against charismatic light heavyweight slugger Edison "Pantera" Miranda (35-6, 30 KOs), scheduled for Friday, February 3, in the Dallas Events Center at the Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel in Las Vegas.

Instead, Miranda will now face South Africa's WBC #6, WBA #13, and WBO #14-rated Isaac "Golden Boy" Chilemba (18-1-1, 9 KOs) in the 10-round main event of an ESPN Friday Night Fights-televised night of boxing, presented by Warriors Boxing and Sampson Boxing, entitled "Super Brawls". MORE

Robert 'The Ghost' Guerrero
To Attend The 17th Annual Critics' Choice
Movie Awards

The 17th Annual Critics' Choice Movie Awards are set to air this Thursday, January 12, on VH1 and multiple world champion boxer, Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero has been invited. Guerrero will join the red carpet walk with mega-movies stars like Leonardo Dicaprio, George Clooney and Brad Pitt to name a few. Founded in 1995, the BFCA presents its Critics' Choice Movie Awards each year to honor the finest achievements in filmmaking. A portion of the proceeds from the awards presentation ceremony at the Beverly Hills Hotel is donated to Sean Penn's J/P HRO Haitian Relief Organization.

"It's going to be fantastic attending the CCRA because this is one of the biggest events in Hollywood and a predictor to the Oscars. The movie stars that attend this event are the people that bring joy to our lives through movies that we watch with our families. I'm pleased that a portion of the proceeds will go to the J/P HRO Haitian Relief Organization, a charity that Sean Penn founded to help finance and bring the basic needs to the Haitian families struggling after the earthquake of 2010." MORE

DEE LEE PROMOTIONS IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE
TROPICANA CASINO AND RESORT PRESENT:

Super Brawl I

NABA LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP BOUT
Dorin Spivey (40-6-0/29 KO’s) vs.
Victor Vasquez (14-5-1/7 KO’s)

Co-Main Event:
Chazz Witherspoon (29-2-0/21 KO’s) vs.
Evans Quinn (20-6-1/18 KO's)

On one of the biggest weekends in sports, boxing will take center stage on the eve of Super Bowl XVLI when Dee Lee Promotions LLC, in association with the Tropicana Casino and Resort present Super Brawl I on Saturday, February 4, 2012 in the Tropicana Showroom. The night features co-main events. First slated is a 10-round brawl for the vacant NABA Lightweight Championship with Dorin Spivey (40-6-0/29 KO’s) of Portsmouth, VA and Philadelphia, PA native, Victor Vasquez (14-5-1/7 KO’s) going toe-to toe. The other featured bout pits Philadelphia’s own and Atlantic City favorite, Chazz “The Gentleman Heavyweight” Witherspoon (29-2-0/21 KO’s) vs. Evans "The Sandman" Quinn (20-6-1/18 KO's). Witherspoon, an all-around athlete has an arsenal of skills he brings to the ring. He considers each fight just one step closer to a title shot and hopes to follow the path of his cousin, two-time world heavyweight champion, “Terrible” Tim Witherspoon. MORE

WORLD BOXING COUNCIL NEWS

January 11, 2012 – Mexico City .

From WBC President Dr. José Sulaimán:

The World Boxing Council sends our sincere condolences to Eric Gomez and his family for the passing away of his father. Eric, the matchmaker for Golden Boy Promotions, is a dear friend of ours and we hope that almighty God will bring prompt resignation to such a profound sorrow.

Eddie Chambers and Philly Fighters
Welcome NBC Sports Network

During a recent media event at Joe Hand Gym Boxing Gym in Philadelphia, fighters, promoters and network officials agreed that getting back to boxing basics in the City of Brotherly Love was just what the doctor ordered.

Gary Quinn, Senior Director, Program Planning and Aquisitions, NBC Sports Group, explained how Philadelphia ties in to the NBC Sports Network Fight Night game plan, "What we think puts us in a unique position to make this series succeed is now that we have the NBC Sports Group formulated, we've got 4 media platforms: we've got the NBC broadcast network; we've got the 24/7 NBC Sports Network; we have the 12 regional sports networks; and our digital platforms. It's no coincidence that we are here in Philadelphia where we have one of the strongest RSN's (Regional Sports Network) with CSN (Comcast SportsNet) Philly." MORE

Get A 2012 Season Seat Packet Today

Dear Fight Fans,

If there was ever a reason to consider purchasing Season Seats to the six Fight Club OC hybrid boxing and MMA shows in 2012 how about this: it's America's only hybrid fight series...new instant replay on the 40' Jumbo Screen...$5 Beers....waitress service at you seats...all six shows on Thursday evenings...Season Seat parking right next to The Hangar.... a special Season Seat entrance...the lowest ticket price of any fight show in So Cal at only $50...and the opportunity to purchase your seats for some possible Special Edition Fight Club OC Saturday shows....can you say Showtime - HD Net - Telefutura - Spike TV - how about NBC!

If you don't want to miss any of the action we have in store for you in 2012, just email fightpromotions@gmail.com and request a Season Seat packet be mailed to you, and be there on Opening Night - Thursday, February 16th 2012.

View Fight Club OC Video Highlights
http://www.fightcluboc.com/media/videos/

MORE

Stacked Undercard For "KO at the TU",
Saturday, February 4, in Albany, NY

A sensational undercard is being compiled by Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing for their upcoming event, "KO AT THE TU" on Saturday, February 4th at the Times Union Center in Albany, New York.

World class prospects in the bantamweight division will clash in a scheduled ten rounder as undefeated Russian standout Sahib Usarov challenges Yan Barthelemy of Cuba.

The 28-year-old Usarov, sporting a record of 17-0 (6KO's) is currently world ranked #10 by the World Boxing Organization and is the reigning WBO European Bantamweight Champion. MORE

NABFnews.com

President’s Report – January 2012

HAPPY NEW YEAR. Hoping that 2012 will be a Banner Year for the NABF

The recent WBC Convention in Las Vegas had to be, in my opinion, the best yet, over 90 present and former Champions in attendance as well as over 1,100 guests. A great time was had by all. A tremendous job by the WBC Office staff.

NABF Convention - 2012

We are looking into holding our Convention in conjunction with the WBC in Cancun, Mexico, in November. It would mean less expense to our members who generally attend both conventions. As this will be the 50th anniversary of the WBC, it is sure to be a great gathering of champions as well as boxing friends. MORE

Demetrius Andrade vs. Derek Ennis
NABO Junior Middleweight Championship
Mohegan Sun Arena
Feb. 10, 2012

U.S. Olympian Demetrius Andrade headlines
Feb. 10 ESPN FNF show vs. Derek Ennis
NABO Junior Middleweight Title Fight at Mohegan Sun

Star Boxing will once again showcase one of the most promising boxers in the world, undefeated 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius "Boo Boo" Andrade, February 10 against rugged Philadelphian Derek "Pooh" Ennis in a 10-round bout for the vacant North American Boxing Organization ("NABO") junior middleweight title, headlining an ESPN Friday Night Fights show at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.

"We're excited to be going back to beautiful Mohegan Sun for another ESPN Friday Night Fights show with Demetrius Andrade, one of the top young boxers in the world, headlining what will be a very entertaining and competitive card," Star Boxing president Joe DeGuardia said. "This is going to be a breakout year for Demetrius, who will be fighting close to his family, friends and fans in Providence. Ennis is a tough Philadelphia fighter who figures to give Demetrius the toughest test of his young pro career." MORE

Plimpton Wins Boxing Writers'
Liebling Award

JANUARY 3, 2012 -- George Plimpton, the elegant literary adventurer who graced boxing with witty, insightful prose and once had his nose broken in the line of duty, will receive this year’s A.J. Liebling Award. The Boxing Writers Association of America presents the award in memory of Liebling, the legendary New Yorker wordsmith who called his favorite sport "The Sweet Science."

Plimpton, who died in 2003, at age 76, was the author of one book about boxing, "Shadow Box," and wrote about fights and fighters for Sports Illustrated, Harper’s, and Esquire, most memorably during the heyday of Muhammad Ali. It wasn’t Ali who broke his nose, however. Archie Moore delivered that blow during a sparring session that Plimpton had arranged. What Ali, who was never good at remembering names, did was give the tall, patrician Plimpton a nickname he couldn’t forget: "Kennedy." MORE

Pictured left to right: Beau Williford, Brent Bowers, Kerry Daigle and Chad "The Good Guy" Trahan.

George Foreman's Assistant Trainer, Brent Bowers, Working to Assist "The Good Guy" Chad Trahan in Increasing Punching Power"

Brent Bowers helped orchestrate the GEORGE FOREMAN comeback in 1986 and on Monday and Tuesday, January 2nd and 3rd, he came to Lafayette, Louisiana to evaluate undefeated prospect (5-0 4ko's), Chad "The Good Guy" Trahan. After spending three hours watching and working with Chad each day on his punching power, Bowers stated that, "Chad is very likely the best middleweight prospect in America". " I think George will give HBO a glowing report on this Trahan kid" said Bowers. Bowers is known for working with ‘punchers’ like Big George Foreman and training and learning from former Light heavyweight World Champion, Archie Moore. Moore trained Foreman in his 2nd career comeback with Bowers assisting.

Inaugural “Fight to Ireland” Event to be Held in Savannah, Georgia March 17

The World Boxing Federation recently introduced the Gaelic/Celtic title for boxers with roots in Gaelic and Celtic nations, and now the WBF has announced “The Fight To Ireland”, an event that will support the newly created regional European title, and launch a way for American Professional boxers to earn the right to defend or challenge for Gaelic/Celtic titles in Ireland.  

Promoted by Alex Beadle, President of the Georgia Boxing Association, the debut “Fight to Ireland” will be staged on March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, in Savannah, Georgia, where the city hosts the second largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration outside of Ireland and draws in the region of 600,000 spectators and national media coverage. MORE

MEET "IRISH" MICKY WARD

AT THE OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN FOR THE FRIDAY, JANUARY 6, 'WINTER WARFARE'BOXING EVENT AT THE PALACE OF AUBURN HILLS IN AUBURN HILLS, MICHIGAN

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Thursday, January 5, at 6:00 p.m. at The Holiday Inn in Auburn Hills -Food and Beverages Will Be Served

The official weigh-in for Friday, January 6's "Winter Warfare" professional boxing event presented by Donofrio Entertainment (in association with Palace Sports and "First Lady of Boxing" Jackie Kallen) at the Palace of Auburn Hills in Auburn Hills, Michigan, will be held on Thursday, January 5 at The Holiday Inn in Auburn Hills at 6:00 p.m.

The weigh-in is open to the public and the great "Irish" Micky Ward, subject of the Oscar nominated movie "The Fighter" will be in attendance to shake hands and sign autographs. All fighters and event promoters Joseph Donofrio and Jackie Kallen will also be available for interviews, autographs and photo opportunities. MORE

The WBF In 2011 is Growing
And Growing Fast

After already having a tremendous 2010, again the only way was up for the World Boxing Federation in 2011, easily surpassing the previous yearsÆ numbers and setting a new record in terms of championship fights. This is especially remarkable in view of the WBF policy to keep the number of different titles to a minimum as opposed to some 'colorful' titles created by other sanctioning bodies. In 2011, the WBF sanctioned a total of 40 championship bouts, which amounts to a 15% growth rate from the previous year. MORE

Friday, Dec. 30, 2011, Live on SHOWTIME®,
Morongo Casino Resort & Spa, Cabazon, California

CABAZON, Calif. (Dec. 31, 2011) – Jermain Taylor and Andre Dirrell made triumphant returns to the ring Friday, both winning by knockout during a special edition of ShoBox: The New Generationon SHOWTIME®. Taylor (29-4-1, 18 KOs), of Little Rock, Ark., registered an eighth-round knockout over game but outclassed Jessie Nicklow (22-3-3, 8 KOs), of Baltimore, Md., in the main event at Morongo Casino Resort & Spa. Dirrell (20-1, 14 KOs), of Flint, Mich., scored two knockdowns en route a second-round knockout over Darryl Cunningham (24-3, 10 KOs), of Detroit, in the co-feature. Taylor was making his first start in 26 months; Dirrell his first in 21. MORE

City Honors Delvin Rodriguez: Delvin Rodriguez Day Officially Declared By Mayor

The City of Danbury (Connecticut) welcomed home its newest champion, Delvin Rodriguez this past Thursday night at Danbury Billiards.

Over 200 proud fans packed into Danbury Billards as Mayor Mark Boughton welcomed Delvin home from his unanimous decision victory over Pawel Wolak on the undercard of Cotto - Margarito at Madison Square Garden on December 3rd. The bout was a rematch of their classic battle earlier in the year.

Mayor Boughton officially declared December 22, 2011 as Delvin Rodriguez Day in Danbury Ct.

State Senator Michael McLachlan was also on hand to present Rodriguez with an award from the Connecticut State Senate as well.

Additionally, last week Rodriguez received other accolades as Sports Illustrated and Ring8 announced that the first epic fight between Rodriguez and Wolak was voted the 'Fight of the Year' for 2011.

Is Andre “S.O.G.” Ward Heir Apparent
to Joe Calzaghe?

How many times have we heard “that’s when fighters were fighters?”  Andre Ward has a very tough act to follow in a division that had Joe Calzaghe rule from winning the vacant WBO title over Chris Eubanks, 45-2-2 in October of 1997 until defeating Mikkel Kessler, 39-0, in November of 2007 defending his WBA Super, WBO and WBC titles.

Calzaghe had won the IBF title in 2006 from Jeff Lacy, 21-0, and defended it against Sakio Bika, 20-1-2 also in 2006 before giving it up.  He won all 4 major titles in the Super Middleweight division before stepping up to light heavyweight and defeating legends Bernard Hopkins, 48-4-1 in April and Roy Jones, Jr., 52-4 in November of 2008 retiring with a perfect 46-0, 32 knockout record with 21 title defenses.  He won the first title in his 23rd fight and retired after his 46th fight. MORE

WORLD BOXING COUNCIL NEWS

December 28, 2011 – Mexico City
From WBC President Dr. José Sulaimán:

“I would like to clarify my feelings about some recent comments of mine, and apologize for not finding the right words in English - there are many times when I cannot find the right words to express what I really mean. The comments attributed to me are a complete misrepresentation of my true feelings.

“I am a devoted husband and father of two daughters, and have three wonderful granddaughters, as well. The Virgin of Guadalupe is my superior saint. I am the person that developed female boxing, and I am the person in the WBC that has always been concerned with the protection of women in the ring. I have always been a strong supporter of women’s rights and the protection of women in society. Those are the facts – everybody knows me. MORE

Eddie Chambers Takes on Sergei Liakhovich on 1/21/12 NBC Sports Network Fight Night Inaugural Show

When he opens the new NBC Sports Network's Fight Night series on January 21, 2012 at Asylum Arena in his hometown of Philadelphia, top Heavyweight Contender "Fast" Eddie Chambers has promised to impress Philly's discerning boxing fans and make lots of new ones. According to Chambers, taking on former World Heavyweight Champion Siarhei "White Wolf" Liakhovich in a high profile, nationally televised fight is a great way to showcase the sport and bring new fans for the Sweet Science.

"I want people outside of boxing and new fans coming in to know just how hard I work, and how much work all fighters put in," Chambers said. "I believe that the Heavyweight Championship is the most coveted title in sports. Everyone loves a Gladiator and that is what boxing is about. NBC Sports Network stepping up to the table will hopefully get fans to take a look at the sport once again and jump on the band wagon. This is exactly what we need. I know when the fans tune in January 21st they will not be disappointed." MORE

JULIO CÉSAR CHÁVEZ, JR. and NONITO DONAIRE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP DOUBLEHEADER

Saturday, February 4 at the Alamodome Live on HBO World Championship Boxing

Tickets Go On Sale This Saturday!

SAN ANTONIO (December 28, 2011) – Undefeated World Middleweight Champion and the Son of the Legend, JULIO CÉSAR CHÁVEZ, JR., and Top-Five pound-for pound fighter and three-division world champion NONITO “The Filipino Flash” DONAIRE will headline a world title doubleheader, Saturday, February 4, at the Alamodome in San Antonio. Chávez Jr. will be taking on No. 1 contender MARCO ANTONIO RUBIO. Donaire will rumble with former junior featherweight champion WILFREDO VAZQUEZ JR. for the vacant World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior featherweight title. The fights will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing®, beginning at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. MORE

Robert Guererro: "If it Comes Down to Going to Floyd's Gym, That's What I'll Do"

By Mike Juhas ~ FightHype.com
Photo By Daisy Rosas

Statement From Freddie Roach
on his Induction into the
International Boxing Hall of Fame

Minto vs. Grano January 28 at
Turning Stone

Former WBO Title Challenger Brian "The Beast" Minto (35-4) will face Tony Grano (18-2-1) in an NABF Heavyweight Title Eliminator on Saturday January 28th at Turning Stone Casino in Verona, New York. Both coming off wins, Minto and Grano will battle for the right to eventually face WBC#5, NABF Champ Johnathon Banks (27-1-1).

A former WBO NABO Heavyweight Champion, Minto's most notable victories have come via stoppage against former IBF Title Challenger Axel Schulz (26-5) and former heavyweight contender Donnell Holmes (33-1), while his notable heavyweight defeats have come versus former WBC Title Challenger Chris Arreola (34-2) and former WBO Title Challenger Luan Krasniqi (30-4). MORE

ShoBox Summary

Shobox featured a night of prospects ready to make the move to contender. The first bout featured the 19-1 Chris Avalos fighting the undefeated Jhonatan Romero. Romero began the fight fighting outside as he moved away from the aggressive Avalos. Romero showed quick hands over the first two minutes as he nailed Avalos with quick combinations but over the last minute, Avalos trapped Romero on the rope and ripped body shots. Less than ten seconds left, Avalos unleashed a four punch combination that forced Romero down for an eight count. This round showed what the rest of the fight will be as both men alternated between Avalos trapping Romero on the rope or Romero forcing action into the middle of ring plus countering with accurate punches.

Romero survived the end of the first round and showed some boxing skills as he managed to keep Avalos off him but the third round saw the repeat of the last minute of the first round as Avalos managed to trapped Romero on the rope. MORE

Warriors Signs Future Puerto Rican Star
Roberto Jose Acevedo

Leon Margules of Warriors Boxing Promotions is proud to announce the signing of outstanding Puerto Rican super middleweight prospect Roberto Jose Acevedo to a promotional contract. Acevedo (2-0, 1 KO) was born in Miami, but grew up in Bayamon, the town he now proudly represents. MORE

Mares Dominates Agbeko

Showtime featured the final of their bantamweight championship series featuring Abner Mares fighting Joseph Agbeko for the Showtime championship but before the main event, the raging bull Vic Darchinyan taking on the boxer Anselmo Moreno. In the opening round, Darchinyan took the attack to Moreno, trying to get Moreno to open up. At the 1:30 mark, Darchinyan connected on a left that forced Moreno to retreat. Moreno managed to slip a few of Darchinyan’s powerful left and while Darchinyan managed to connect on a couple of lefts, most of his big shots missed their targets.

In the second round, Moreno excellent boxing allowed him to connect on big left hands to counter the left’s coming from Darchinyan and Moreno jab allowed him to control the early rounds but at the 1:30 seconds of the fourth round, Darchinyan finally connected on a heavy handed left for the first time in a couple of rounds . Frustration of Darchinyan showed up as he wrestle and threw Moreno to the ground, which cost him a point. MORE

HBO Sports® Presents the Exclusive Replay
MIGUEL COTTO VS. ANTONIO MARGARITO II

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10 at 9:45 p.m. ET / 6:45 p.m. PT

NEW YORK (December 5, 2011) -- It’s a special edition of HBO WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® when HBO Sports presents MIGUEL COTTO VS. ANTONIO MARGARITO II, the exclusive replay of their super welterweight title showdown, this SATURDAY, DEC. 10 at 9:45 p.m. ET/ 6:45 p.m. PT on HBO. The HBO Sports team, which was ringside for the live event, calls all the action. The replay will be available in HDTV.

The second chapter of the heated Cotto-Margarito rivalry took place on Dec. 3 at New York’s Madison Square Garden and was carried live on HBO Pay-Per-View.

In addition to the exclusive replay, HBO will have its cameras ringside Saturday night for the live doubleheader telecast from Washington, D.C., featuring Amir Khan vs. Lamont Peterson in a 12-round title matchup.

® WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING is a registered service mark of Home Box Office.

Faragon Headlines Boxing at
Hilton Garden Inn in Staten Island

Tickets for "Championship Boxing at the Hilton Garden Inn" are available online at www.gcpboxing.com and www.NicotrasBallroom.com or by calling 888.612.4191. They are priced at General Admission $50, Ringside $150 and VIP Ringside $250, which includes pre-fight open bar and hot buffet.

On January 19, 2012 at Nicotra's Ballroom in the Hilton Garden Inn in Staten Island, New York, Greg Cohen Promotions, in association with Sal Musumeci's Final Forum, will proudly present "Championship Boxing at the Hilton Garden Inn" a night of world-class professional boxing that will be broadcast nationally on a tape-delayed basis on MSG network in the New York area and on FOX Sports Net affiliates nationwide. MORE

Happy Anniversary, Jose Sulaiman – 36 Years as WBC President

On December 5, 1975, Jose Sulaiman was elected WBC President during the annual WBC convention in Tunisia, North Africa, which was attended by 30 delegates representing the 23 countries affiliated with the WBC at that time. This coming Monday, December 12, the WBC will open its 49th annual convention in Las Vegas with some 1200 delegates representing the 164 countries currently affiliated with the WBC.

Jose Sulaiman’s reign as president has been a journey which has changed the sport of boxing, and implemented many rules and procedures to make boxing safer for the boxers.

36 years as President - equivalent to 432 months, or 1,872 weeks, or 13,140 days, or 315,360 hours – with every single moment of his life has devoted to make our sport as best it could be. MORE

Rodriguez Dominates Wolak

December 5, Bronx, NY....Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing's prize Jr. Middleweight Delvin Rodriguez (26-5-2 14KO Danbury, CT) scored the most impressive win of his career Saturday night at the sold out Madison Square Garden as he pitched a near shutout over highly rated Pawel Wolak (29-2-1 19KO Mt. Arlington, NJ) over the 10 round distance. The unanimous scores read 98-92, 98-91, and 100-90 by the 3 judges at ringside.

The rematch of their first epic encounter on July 15 of this year was vastly different as Rodriguez used a razor like jab and sharp combinations from the opening bell to stymie Wolak's attack. Wolak tried his best in his ever pressing style but one could see early that this was going to be Rodriguez' night. MORE

Sampson Boxing Retains Andre Courtemanche/Big Media Buzz as
Public Relations Firm

Nov. 28, 2011 - International boxing promoter and advisor Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing today announced he has retained the services of noted boxing publicist Andre Courtemanche and his firm Big Media Buzz.

Having one of the world's best eyes for raw boxing talent, Lewkowicz is best known for representing current WBC Diamond Belt Middleweight Champion Sergio "Maravilla" Martinez.

Lewkowicz also currently advises world champions and top contenders such as Krystof Wlodarzyk (IBF Cruiserweight), Shane Cameron (heavyweight), Lucas Matthyse (light welterweight), Chris "The Dragon" John (WBA Featherweight), Anselmo Moreno (WBA Bantamweight), Michael "The Great" Katsidis (WBO Interim Lightweight), Ryan Kielczewsky (super featherweight) and Donnie Nietes (WBO Minimumweight and Light Flyweight). MORE

“Smokin” Joe Frazier the Man Through
the Eyes of Les Wolff

For the past 7 years Les Wolff has served as Joe Frazier’s business and personal manager and closest confidant.  When they visited the Fraims Boys & Girls Club in Wilmington, DE, this past June you could see how well they worked together.

Fellow writer Dave Ruff made the connection thru Les though Ruff has been a friend of Frazier’s for many years.  That’s the way it should be done in boxing.  The kid’s still ask about Joe since learning of his death.  Ruff and I sat down with Les at the Deerhead restaurant in Wilmington for lunch and an interview.  

“The Lord was looking for a heavyweight Angel to kick the butt of the Devil”, said Wolff.  That was pertaining to Frazier’s recent death.  Wolff was always concerned that people didn’t get to know Frazier the man instead of Frazier the fighter.  To hear Frazier’s name without it being linked to Ali never seemed to give Frazier his own identity.  “Joe had plenty of tough fights besides Ali,” said Wolff.  That he did.  I remember Frazier showing and telling me how Oscar Bonavena would move his upper body back a bit while his feet never moved and attack like a rattle snake. MORE

My Thoughts on Upcoming
Cotto-Margarito II

Miguel Cotto fights his revenge match against Antonio Margarito in a battle of the boxer-puncher versus the brawler. When the two met originally, the boxer-puncher Cotto wilted under the constant pressure. Since that fight, much has happened as both fighters have seen their share of tough losses but Margarito has never been the same fighter since he lost to Shane Mosley. The Mosley fight proved not just a turning point in Margarito’s career as a fighter but it beyond that as he was caught adding plaster to his hands. Mosley defeated Margarito easily with a eighth round TKO and Pacquaio devastated Margarito over twelve rounds following that as Margarito showed courage in surviving but he took a beating.

The Pacquaio showed Margarito as a brawler losing his edge and there are many who questioned much of what Margarito has accomplished earlier in his career as there is much suspicion about his previous big victories. Labeled a cheater, Margarito is viewed a fighter never as good as his record showed including his victory over Cotto. Since the Mosley fight and the revelation exposed about Margarito’s hands; Cotto believes that his defeat at the hands of Margarito tainted and Cotto now feels that he truly did not lose the fight but it was stolen from him. MORE

COTTO vs. MARGARITO II

NEW YORK FIGHT WEEK BEGINS
THIS MONDAY!

“The Mecca of Boxing,” Madison Square Garden

Headed for a Complete Sellout

NEW YORK (November 25, 2011) -- Three-division world champion and the Pride of Puerto Rico MIGUEL COTTO and professional rival and three-time welterweight world champion ANTONIO “The Tijuana Tornado” MARGARITO, of México, will begin their New York Fight Week for their long-awaited world championship rematch, This Monday! November 28. Cotto will defend his World Boxing Association (WBA) super welterweight title in this high-tension showdown against Margarito, Saturday, December 3, at “The Mecca of Boxing,” Madison Square Garden. With approximately 1,000 tickets remaining, Cotto-Margarito II is projected to sellout in advance of fight nights. Cotto has sold more tickets to The Garden in this millennium than any other fighter. MORE

Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero Talks
Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Guerrero: I'm Not Amir 'Con Artist', I want Floyd Mayweather Jr.

By David "Los Gatos" Rosenburg ~ BoxingScene.com

Robert let's get right into the heart of it. There was an expert panel that gave they're take on a potential fight with you and Floyd Mayweather. Some people picked you to win against the pound for pound best fighter in the world, how does that make you feel?

WBA World Heavyweight Championship

ALEXANDER POVETKIN
vs. CEDRIC BOSWELL

LIVE TO THE U.S. EXCLUSIVELY ON EPIX AND EPIXHD.COM

Saturday, December 3 at 4:30 p.m. ET / 1:30 p.m. PT

NEW YORK (November 21, 2011) – Live world championship boxing returns to EPIX (follow @EPIXsports on Twitter for the latest updates on EPIX boxing) when newly-minted undefeated World Boxing Association (WBA) heavyweight champion ALEXANDER POVETKIN makes his first world title defense, against CEDRIC “The Boz” BOSWELL, Saturday, December 3. Presented by Sauerland Event, the live broadcast will emanate from Hartwall Areena in Helsinki, Finland. MORE

WORLD BOXING COUNCIL NEWS

November 21, 2011 – Mexico City

From the office of WBC President Dr. José Sulaimán:

Are you a real boxing fan? Come and join us in our 49th WBC Annual Convention.

For the very first time in history, a boxing organization opens its doors and invites all the fans and boxing lovers to the 49th WBC Annual Convention, an event where all the greatest boxers, referees, promoters, judges and representatives from all the affiliate organizations will attend from all around the world. MORE

Banner Signs Two Prospects

Banner Promotions President Art Pelullo has signed French middleweight champion Julien “Brigadier” Marie Sainte and Montreal super bantamweight prospect Olivier Lontchi to promotional contracts.

Art said, “I’m very pleased to have signed Julien and Olivier, and I’m looking forward to working with them. They’re both managed by Otis and Howard Grant of Grant Brothers Boxing, with whom I have a very good relationship – Otis was my first world champion – and we make a very good team.

“We plan to keep Julien and Olivier busy in 2012, and expect them to have a lot of success in the coming months." MORE

MORALES: This time, Marquez was robbed

Follow up on last Saturday’s fight
By Robert Morales, Boxing Columnist
Posted: 11/18/2011 09:43:28 PM PST
Updated: 11/18/2011 11:40:24 PM PST

Juan Manuel Marquez had just frustrated Manny Pacquiao over 12 rounds this past Saturday at MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Instead of celebrating a victory he deserved, he had to address the media as the majority-decision loser courtesy of three judges who apparently were either caught up in this love affair boxing has with Pacquiao, or simply don't know how to score a fight.

We're not going to suggest the judges might have been paid off because we don't think Pacquiao's promoter, Bob Arum, is that foolish.

While at the dais at the post-fight news conference, Marquez said he was happy with his performance and that he didn't know what else he had to do to "change the minds of the judges." MORE

THE SQUARE RING Nov.17, 2011

People that write about boxing do so for any number of reasons. Some for money. Some for press credentials. Some love boxing while some are just too lazy for real work. No problem. Then there are some that like to call themselves journalist as if that gives them creditability. It’s a “rare bird” that can combine all factors. One will usually get you by if you mention a lot of names and act like you know what you’re talking about.

The task of covering boxing becomes increasingly difficult if the spotlight is on a particular fight which the columnist, in this case me, hasn’t seen. A columnist, according to various unwritten rules, has the option of an opinion. “No es problemo Senior”. Jack Fiske was a well known boxing writer for the San Francisco Chronicle (nee Comical) for more than 40 years. He did a twice weekly column, his work won wide acclaim but he rarely attended a fight. Like some of the brethren today he took press releases, covered his pals, worked the phone, kept advertisers happy and went about his merry way. Seeing him at a fight was as rare as seeing a wedding ice sculpture outdoors in Death Valley in July. MORE

Lewus Gets Serious About Comeback

Former Featherweight Contender Drops 20 lbs, Ready to Make Run at World Title

Fans of Chicago-based professional boxer Johnny Lewus (25-4-1, 21 KOs) better get used to seeing a lot less of him.

Lewus, who will face Saint Paul, Minnesota's Allen "The American Boy" Litzau in the eight-round lightweight main event of Hitz Boxing's "Thanksgiving Eve Belvedere Bash", on Wednesday, November 23, at The Belvedere in Elk Grove, Illinois, will be coming in a full 20 lbs lighter than when he began his comeback as a junior middleweight last year.

"I feel great," said an energetic Lewus on his way to the gym. "I feel like I'm 25 years old. I can move better; everything is much better. Heavyweights put all this weight on and they're fine, but we little guys get slow and sluggish. I'm fast again now. I'm back to Johnny Lewus. I'm back to a world-class fighter and I feel good about it." MORE

This poem is sent at the request of Tarvis Simms to pay respects to Smokin' Joe Frazier - RIP

"Brotherly Love"

My Brother has fallen and everyone knows his name
We don't have the same parents, but our families are still the same
He lived in the city of Philadelphia, I live in another,
it doesn't really matter because this man was my Brother
My Brother I call him, yet we'd never met face to face,
I have Brothers and Sisters all over the place
You see we are both fighters and our families are one,
around the world it's a brotherhood that's second to none
His family's my family, your family, or theirs...MORE

Four Warriors Boxing Fighters Score Impressive Victories Over the Weekend

Warriors Boxing President Leon Margules wishes to congratulate four of his fighters for scoring victories over the weekend.

On Saturday, November 5, on the undercard of Bute vs. Johnson at the Pepsi Coliseum in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada, undefeated lightweight prospect Rances "Kid Blast" Barthelemy (13-0-0, 10 KO) of Arroyo Naranjo, Cuba, scored the biggest victory of his young career, by destroying former NABA Champion Alejandro Barrera (21-9-0, 14 KO) of Mexico City by knockout early in the second round. MORE

My Personal Memories of the Late Great
Smokin’ Joe Frazier

I was deeply saddened to hear that Joe Frazier passed away earlier today, like I’m sure most of the boxing world was. He was a living legend and right up to his passing was so dedicated to the sport that bought him fame and fortune.

Whilst most people will remember Joe for his trilogy of fights with Ali, I remember him with deep affection for a totally different reason... It was Joe and his son Marvis that first got me involved in boxing.

In late 2005, whilst I was recovering from a serious illness, I traveled to Philadelphia to spend some time with my fiancee Marianne Marston, who was there on an extended business trip.

The day I arrived in Philly Marianne was particularly buoyant, not because I had made the trip but because that afternoon she had accidentally met with Joe in a coffee shop opposite our hotel.

Marianne, who had recently started boxing training with Choleton Senior in London, was recounting the story to me of how they met, before saying that Joe had invited her to try out at his North Philadelphia gym. MORE

WORLD BOXING COUNCIL NEWS

November 8, 2011 – Mexico City
From WBC President Dr. José Sulaimán:

The WBC is declaring three days of world mourning in posthumous homage to the great Joe Frazier, who passed away yesterday and who, as a boxing hero, left an indelible mark of his passing through life. His three fights against Muhammad Ali are written with golden letters in the history of boxing.

Joe was a proud WBC World Champion and used his photo with the green belt as an ID card. He was a very good friend of mine, as well as several other members of the WBC. Joe will be remembered until the end of times. The thoughts and prayers of the WBC are with Joe’s family and friends. MORE

NABFnews.com

President’s Report: November 7, 2011

October was a great boxing month for the NABF with four title bouts.

On October 21 at the MGM Grand at Foxwoods, Gabriel Bracero defeated Daniel Sostre by unanimous decision to claim the vacant Super Lightweight title.

On October 22 at Madison Square Garden, NYC, Mikey Garcia defeated a very tough Juan Carlos Martinez, scoring four knockdowns en route to a TKO4 victory in defense of his Featherweight title. MORE

THE SQUARE RING Nov.3, 2011

Exclusive for www.keeppunching.com

Pacquiao-Marquez……………..enough already……please

The late mother of the Lord of the Manor would say when himself was running something into the ground “Enough already!” For Su Padre’ is was “let the man up he’s all covered in blood.”

Back in the day promoting a fight was easy. Sports fans knew the boxer’s, followed their career’s and waited with wild anticipation for their hero’s next fight. With a couple of exception that’s no longer the case. As recently as Mike Tyson and Oscar deLaHoya fights pretty much sold themselves. Probably the master of the art of promotion was Don King. He came up with, or at least took credit for, “The Thilla in Manila” and the “Rumble in the Jungle”. The latter would probably fall afoul of the PC police today as the fight itself involved two black men fighting in the jungle. Someone would probably be offended as almost everything offends someone. MORE

Hook to the Body

Don’t be surprised if Marquez loses

It was very sad for me the last week as among other matters, a page - of the many that I have in my life - was touched by the passing away of a close friend and one of the best Latin-American boxing mentors and trainers, Amilcar Brusa from Argentina, with whom I spent many days, especially during the time of the great Carlos Monzón, for whom Brusa was trainer-manager always. May he rest in peace at the side of God and my hero, Carlso Monzón. MORE

THE SQUARE RING Oct. 21, 2011

Exclusive for www.keeppunching.com

Growing up on the hard scramble streets of Oakland California’s flatlands almost inner city for the Lord of the Manor , boxing, auto racing and baseball ( the Oakland Acorns) were the sport of choice. The Acorns, or Oaks, played in the Pacific Coast League. Auto racing was the Oakland Speedway on Tuesday summer evenings. On many winter Tuesday’s it was the Oakland Auditorium for boxing. Summer Sunday’s meant a baseball double header long before Ernie Banks offered the advice to “Let’s play two.” Except for those interruptions it was boxing. Joe Louis “The Brown Bomber” or the real Sugar Ray Robinson. This was a time of no television, yes there was such a time, movies on Saturday afternoon for the Kiddie matinee at 14 cents per ticket, 5 cent popcorn and nursery rhymes handed down from Mother to child. MORE

Toney Departs for Moscow on Wednesday

Lights Out in Russia is On!

James "Lights Out" Toney will depart for Moscow, Russia, this Wednesday, October 19, in advance of his meeting with WBA #1 cruiserweight contender Denis Ledbedev at the Khodynka Ice Palace on November 4. Wishing to get fully acclimated to the region, Toney (73-6-3, 44 KOs) will continue training in Moscow. Already in the best physical shape he has been in years, 43-year-old Toney says he's just putting the final touches on his camp and on fight night Operation Lights Out in Russia will be in full effect. MORE

IBF Eliminator Tops 'Miami Warfare' November 18

On Friday, November 18, The Winner Sports Promotions, Bad Dog Productions and Warriors Boxing Promotions will proudly present "Miami Warfare" a night of world-class professional boxing at the Miami Airport Convention Center (MACC) in Miami, Florida. Topping the action will be an IBF junior middleweight elimination bout to determine the #2 contender between Giorbis Barthelemy (25-8-2, 10 KOs) of Hialeah, Florida via Cuba, and Miami's Charles "Killa" Whittaker (37-12-2, 23 KOs). 39-year-old Barthelemy is coming off TKO 2 over well-respected then-USBA Junior Middleweight Champion Derek Ennis in March. 37-year-old Whittaker is riding a 13-fight winning streak that included picking up the NABO, WBC Caribbean Boxing Federation (CABOFE) and USBA titles. MORE

Good Guy Trahan Learning the Ropes from Gentleman Glen

With all the leather flying, you’d never know you were watching “The Good Guy” spar with “Gentleman” Glen.

“My brother gave me that name,” explains undefeated super middleweight prospect Chad “The Good Guy” Trahan (5-0, 4 KOs). He always tells me I look like such a good guy, but in the ring I’m a killer.”

Trahan, from Lafayette, Louisiana, is currently in Miami, sparring with former world champion Glen Johnson, who is preparing to face IBF Super Middleweight Champion Lucian Bute on November 4.

Trahan, brought in (along with promising contender Demetrius Andrade) to work with Johnson for his southpaw stance, says he’s going to school working with the ageless former champion.

“I’m getting some awesome work. All the little moves they tell me to do like move my head, if I don’t do them, they make me pay. I’ve worked with some other pros, but this is my first time working with top-level guys and I’m learning so much.” MORE

WBC Decides on Hopkins

by Tom Donelson

The World Boxing Council has now given their opinion on the Hopkins-Dawson; Bernard Hopkins can now sleep more comfortably knowing that he has his title back in a one of the more bizarre decisions. WBC declared the contest a technical draw and therefore Hopkins kept his title. Then WBC goes into the weird zone for they essentially say that while they have no right to overturn a commission decision, they can determine the champion. So the California commission can stand by its original decision that Hopkins lost by TKO but the WBC can deny Dawson the championship. If that is not bad enough, the WBC stated that Dawson intentionally threw Hopkins to the ground but they didn’t ask for a Dawson disqualification.

Let us review the whole process from last week and move from there. I stated in my original take that I felt that it should have been a no-contest since Hopkins had a role in the whole incident. Hopkins threw a right hand which missed as Dawson ducked, and Hopkins ended up on Dawson back, who then reacted by throwing Hopkins off. It was case of one reaction leading to another reaction. There was nothing intentional on either side in a fight that was developing into a rough fight. MORE

Results from Tropicana Atlantic City

Raymond Serrano remained perfect as he scored an exciting ten round unanimous decision over Angel Rios at the Tropicana Casino & Resort.

The card was promoted by Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing and was the first show on Azteca America's new televised boxing series "Boxeo Azteca"

Serrano boxed very well early as he was very pinpoint with his punches. He was very adept with his right hand and body attack. Rios drew oohs and Ahhs in round four as he winged and connected with two big right hands that Serrano took well. MORE

Donarie wins a boring fight

Nonito Donarie is on the verge of superstardom and in the original capital of boxing, New York City; he faced the undefeated Argentina fighter Omar Andres Narvaez. Donarie have beaten some of the better fighters in the lower weight division including Fernando Montiel and the power punching Vic Darchinyan. Donarie wanted to make his point that Pacquaio wasn’t the only great Philippine fighter.

The opening minutes was a feeling out process as Narvaez boxed and looked for weakness against the hard punching Donarie. Near the end of the round, both fighters nailed each other with solid hooks but Donarie punches were heavier. The second round saw two technical fighters playing a chess match as both fighters look for advantage but action proved sparse as neither fighter could gain an advantage. Narvaez defense forced Donarie to move forward and threw punches, but punches missing their target. MORE

Uncrowned Champion: A Book Review

by Tom Donelson

Uncrowned Champions by Don Cogswell and JJ Johnston reflected upon great boxers who never got the opportunity to fight for a crown for various reason, mostly based on the color of their skin, lack of connection with the right promoters or they were simply too good.

Mr. Cogswell and Johnston do make one point about boxing that often ignored, boxing often was ahead of the curve when it came to giving minorities and immigrants a shot at the glory, money and championship belts long before society as a whole accepted African-Americans into the mainstream. Some forty years before Jackie Robinson was allowed to play baseball and Blacks were integrated in the armed forces, there were black champions and many black fighters were in the same ring as their white counterpart. MORE

Hook to the Body

The Millenary of Boxing

History says that during the era of the caveman, who we call today men, communicated by signals and voice noises, wore no clothes and later only minimal, without any artifacts of any nature, and their spent days went bye without objectives, except to be the chief of the tribe, eat and sleep with women - which is not very different from today. That was the time when human beings started fighting, but that life remains hidden in the mystery of time. MORE

Showtime® Sports Color Commentator Al Bernstein Nominated to International Boxing Hall of Fame Ballot

Ballots For The Annual Induction Ceremony
In Canastota, N.Y., Due Back By Oct. 31

NEW YORK (Oct. 7, 2011) –Al Bernstein, a SHOWTIME® Sports color commentator and one of the most respected and recognized voices in boxing, has been nominated for the ballot of the 2011 International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, N.Y.  

This is the first time Bernstein has been nominated to the Hall.  Other new nominees include former five-division world champion Thomas "Hit Man" Hearns, former two-division titleholders Mark "Too Sharp" Johnson and Dariusz Michalczewski, and five-time Trainer of the Year Freddie Roach. 

Bernstein, who has called more than 2,500 fights and 68 pay-per-view telecasts, has been the voice of boxing for more than 30 years.  From 1980 to 2003, Bernstein called boxing telecasts for ESPN as the analyst of the Top Rank Boxing series and served as the boxing expert on the network. MORE

Al Bernstein Master of Ceremonies at HACE Annual Fundraiser

CHICAGO, IL (OCTOBER 6, 2011)- When you look at the numbers of Latinos in management positions the numbers represent a challenge, especially when Latinos represent 16% of the U.S. population and $1.3 trillion dollars in purchasing power. Additionally, research shows that only 1% of Latinos are CEOs in corporate America and less than 5% are in director level positions. So what can be done to change this? The answer involves learning how to position, develop and advance Latino leaders, which is precisely the work the Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement (HACE) has been doing for more than 25 years. MORE

This was a battle of undefeated lightweights, two prospects who were fighting to establish themselves as contenders. The smooth boxing Sharif Bogere challenged the hard charging and heavy handed Francisco Contreras but first, undefeated Jermell Charlo wanted to show that he was ready for primetime among junior Middleweights against Francisco Santana.

Charlo preferred the outside as he boxed throughout the first two rounds but occasionally he went to the rope; allowing Santana to pound him briefly before Charlo escaped. At the end of the second round, both fighters exchanged punches off the ropes but Charlo managed to nail Santana with left hooks and a right uppercut. MORE

Bang Productions Seeking Pledges for
Duva Documentary

Bang Productions and well-respected producer/director John Edmonds Kozma are currently soliciting pledged donations on www.kickstarter.com, the largest funding platform for creative projects in the world, to help produce a 90-minute documentary for worldwide release on legendary boxing trainer/manager Lou Duva.

Funds raised will help Kozma and his team shoot and archive footage for about 75 days. With an additional 30 days of post-production for a total of 105 days. Interested donors are encouraged to visit www.kickstarter.com as soon as possible, as the project will only be funded if at least $133,000 is pledged by Friday, November 11, at 10:38 AM/EST. MORE

Craig Taffaro (President of the Saint Bernard Parish) and Melissa Jurisich (the Director of the Sigur Center) purchase the first ticket for Friday’s “Brawlin in Da Parish” event from promoter Les Bonano.

“Brawlin in Da Parish” this Friday 
It's a heavyweight explosion down South!

Leslie Bonano and The Fight Guys return to St. Bernard Parish at the Sigur Center in Chalmette, Louisiana this Friday with “Brawlin in Da Parish” featuring a heavyweight battle royale with the 6′5″270 pound-plus Bobby “Bo-Bo” O’Bannon (10-4, 10 KOs) going to war with the 6′7″265 pound-plus Raphael “The Cajun Connection” Pedro (20-9-1, 14 KOs).

The hard-hitting O’Bannon always goes toe-to-toe with his opponent until one of them are knocked to the canvas for the count. Pedro is a former Cuban amateur standout who now fights out of Golden Meadow, LA and is trained by Olympic gold medalist and former world champion Kennedy McKinney. Both fighters have a large local following and it is anticipated that their showdown will have the fans on their feet for this epic clash of big men. MORE

UNDEFEATED JR. WELTERWEIGHT KINGTIMOTHY BRADLEY, JR. TO MAKE TOP RANK DEBUT ONPACQUIAO-MARQUEZ III PAY-PER-VIEW CARD

LAS VEGAS, NEV (October 5, 2011) – Top Rank announced today it has signed undefeated World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior welterweight champion TIMOTHY “The Desert Storm” BRADLEY, Jr. to an exclusive long-term promotional contract. The Top-10 pound-for-pound fighter will be making his Top Rank debut in the feature bout under the Manny Pacquiao – Juan Manuel Márquez III World Welterweight Championship, on Saturday, November 12, at the sold-out MGM Grand Garden Arena. Televised live on pay-per-view, Bradley will be defending his world title against two-division world champion and former Cuban Olympic gold medalist Joel Casamayor (38-5-1, 22 KOs) of Miramar, Fla. MORE

ROBERT "THE GHOST" GUERRERO TALKS WELTER TOURNEY, FACING FLOYD JR

By Ryan Maquinana ~ BoxingScene.com

A month has elapsed since WBA/WBO interim lightweight champion Robert Guerrero tore the rotator cuff in his left shoulder, causing the cancellation of his August fight against WBA junior welterweight "regular" champ Marcos Maidana in San Jose. After undergoing arthoscopic surgery with renowned Dr. Dillingham in Redwood City, Calif., Guerrero (29-1-1, 18 KOs) completed a period of rest and has commenced physical therapy with San Francisco based specialist Lisa Giannone of Active Care. MORE

STAR BOXING INKS NEW TV DEAL

Joe DeGuardia, founder and President of Star Boxing, is pleased to announce that he has entered into a formal agreement with Azteca America to televise live boxing events from the US. The new series titled "Star Boxing presents Boxeo Azteca" will debut October 22, 2011, live from The Tropicana Casino and Resort in Atlantic City, NJ. In addition to October 22nd, there will be four (4) more dates though December of this year. The fights will air live on Azteca America at 10:00pm EST, 9:00pm CST, and 7:00pm PST. MORE

President Sulaiman:
Tourism Ambassador of Mexico

World Boxing Council President Dr. Jose Sulaiman was awarded the appointment of “Tourism Ambassador of Mexico” by the Mexican government on September 27 in Mazatlan, Sinaloa. The President of the Mexican Republic, Felipe Calderon Hinojosa, presented the honor, which was presented to others, as well.

The presentation was part of the celebration of the International Day of Tourism (Year of Tourism in Mexico 2011) at the port of Mazatlan, and was also attended by several other high-ranking government officials.

The appointment presented by President Calderon Hinojosa was a diploma signed by the Tourism Minister, Gloria Guevara Manzo, on the day when the campaign “Mexico Siente” (Mexico Feels) was launched. The campaign contains the elements to attract more foreign tourists to Mexico. President Calderon Hinojosa said, “Mexico is a country full of colors, flavors, and music. It is my greatest passion and my raison d’être.”

Spencer Fearon’s Hard Knocks Promotions Proudly Presents This Is Hard Knocks

Premier Sports Ink Six Fight TV Deal With Spencer Fearon’s Hard Knocks Boxing Promotions

Premier Sports have signed a broadcast deal with Spencer Fearon and Ciaran Baynes’ Hard Knocks Boxing Promotions  for six events, starting with their October 7th York Hall Super Show ‘This Is Hard Knocks’ which will be headlined by Mongolia’s two time World Featherweight Champion Choi Tseveenprev.

The dynamic duo’s commitment to featuring genuine 50/50 match-ups throughout their fight cards, which constantly produces leading ‘Fight of the Year’ contenders, is almost certainly the reason that Premier Sports came banging on the Hard Knocks office door just days after the massively successful, sensationally exciting ‘Summer Smash’ event. MORE

Nonito Donaire asks our Tri State kababayans: "Are you the next big Pinoy singing star?"

By Rich Mazon, PhilBoxing.com

With the October 22, 2011 Big Apple debut of Nonito Donaire just three weeks away, the WBC and the WBO bantamweight champ is giving Filipino residents of the Tri State area an opportunity to be part of this great sporting event. Not only will one lucky resident be able to watch the fight live at the historic Madison Square Garden for free and at ringside, he or she will also be playing an important event that evening. Donaire announced that he is giving one lucky Filipino resident of New York, New Jersey and/or Connecticut the chance to sing our national anthem in front of the thousands attending that night and the millions watching worldwide via HBO and Top Rank.com. MORE

Scott Wins Impressively in Houston!

Last night, September 29 in Houston, Texas, at the fabulous Houston Club downtown a huge white collar crowd of oil executives filled the arena to see a 6’ 8” heavyweight hopeful that America can be proud of.

Shannon Caudle was a previous opponent of two upcoming prospects, Deontay Wilder and George Foreman III, losing both by stoppage in the first round. Wilder, the Olympian, knocked out Caudle in one round and Foreman had a technical knockout win in one round. Scott did the same but in a masterful way. He broke Caudle’s nose and knocked him out in 2 minutes. Caudle’s reputation as a puncher with 8 knockouts in 9 wins was evident as he tried overhand rights to counter Scott’s jab which left him open to a short uppercut that felled the Arkansas native. Does this mean Scott fights Wilder or Foreman? Probably not. I’m certain Wilder or Foreman have other plans than to meet the 6’ 8” power puncher with quick hands from Houston. MORE

STEVE “USS” CUNNINGHAM vs. YOAN PABLO HERNANDEZ

IBF World Cruiserweight Championship
October 1, 2011 - Neubrandenburg, Germany

Two time IBF Cruiserweight Champion of The World Steve “USS” Cunningham and TRAD Group Chairman Hayden Smith jointly announced today that the London headquartered TRAD Group were sponsoring his title defense at the Jahnsportforum in Neubrandenburg, Germany on Saturday 1st October, which will be broadcast live in the UK on BoxNation (Sky Channel 456).

The sponsorship arrangement came about as Steve, who will be making the second defense of his second reign as IBF Champ against the WBA Interim Champion Yoan Pablo Hernandez on Saturday, has strong links with London and more specifically the TRAD sponsored TKO Boxing Gym in Canning Town. MORE

SKIP ‘STRICTLY BUSINESS’ SCOTT

WHERE ARE THE AMERICAN HEAVYWEIGHTS?

The United States of America has dominated professional boxing in the heavyweight division for decades, possibly this last century. Jack Johnson, Rocky Marciano, James Jeffries, Jack Dempsey, Muhammad Ali, Larry Holmes, Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield are all names that ring a bell.

Today most people can’t name a heavyweight from America. Two brothers, Wladimir Klitschko and Vitali Klitschko have dominated the heavyweight division for years. The two brothers hold every conceivable heavyweight championship to hold and from the Ukraine. Amazingly, the top contenders are all from the European countries. American heavyweights have attempted to take those belts away from the Klitschko’s but have come home to the USA humbled and embarrassed. MORE

Newer, Meaner O'Connor
Destroys Del Cid

World-renowned trainer Ronnie Shields said his newest pupil, Super lightweight prospect Danny O'Connor (15-1, 4 KOs) was learning to sit down on his punches more.

He didn't lie.

The new-and-improved O'Connor scored a devastating first-round knockout (1:20) over Jamal Del Cid of Mexico last night at the 10th annual Fight to Educate charity show at the Verizon Wireless Arena in Manchester, New Hampshire.

A huge overhand left did the job for O'Connor, who was coming back from his first professional loss last April.

"I've been working on putting more on my punches and being more aggressive and tonight it showed," said the jubilant winner, post-fight. MORE

ROBERT "THE GHOST" GUERRERO
FACES SHOULDER REHAB, TALKS WELTERWEIGHT FUTURE

RingTV.com

RingTV.com conducted an exclusive Q&A with fired-up five-belt, three-division titlewinner Robert Guerrero on Wednesday -- moments before his first day of rehabilitation following arthroscopic surgery that repaired a torn tendon in the rotator cuff of his left shoulder.

The 28-year-old Guerrero (29-1-1, 18 KOs) had been preparing to face Marcos Maidana (30-2, 27 KOs) on Aug. 27 for what the WBA calls its "regular" junior welterweight title, and an opportunity at a sixth belt in a fourth different weight division, when he was forced to pull out after injuring the shoulder during sparring two weeks prior. MORE

Thoughts on Pacman and Mayweather

After seeing the repeat of the Ortiz-Mayweather, a few things pop up. Joe Cortez was right to take a point away from Ortiz. Ortiz was warned twice before in the round to watch where he placed his head and there was no doubt that Ortiz tried to butt Mayweather’s head.

The other aspect, Cortez did signal to start the fight and while both fighters touch gloves once, it appeared that Ortiz decided to continue the love hug whereas Mayweather decided to heck with that and throw the deciding punches. For a brief second, Joe Cortez looked distracted while the punches were being thrown but there is no doubt that the punches were legal. MORE

Al Bernstein To Be Honored At The Las Vegas Celebrity Sports Awards on November 17, 2011

Nominees Include Andre Agassi, Floyd Mayweather, Randy Couture, TJ Lavin, Gary Payton, Frank Thomas, Jerry Tarkanian, CJ Watson, Richard Steele, Lorenzo Fertitta
and Larry Johnson

LAS VEGAS, NV, September 9, 2011 – Las Vegas Celebrity Sports Awards announced today that legendary boxing analyst Al Bernstein will be honored as he celebrates his 30th year in broadcasting. Bernstein will also host a tribute called Fight Town - Las Vegas, The Boxing Capital of the World. MORE

THE SQUARE RING Sept. 19, 2011

Exclusive for www.keeppunching.com

Life means nothing without principles. Taken a step further life mean nothing unless one has principles, allows them to get in the way of dong something stupid while adjusting them to the current situation. One of my principles is to never pay for a boxing match on television. With that in mind I had no intention of watching the recent Floyd Mayweather jr.-Victor Ortiz fight from Las Vegas on the “boob tube.” None, zero, zip nada. Then Saturday afternoon, the day of said fight, the phone rang at the Casa’ de Reed. “I just bought the fight you want to come over and watch it,” asked The Blind Guy. He’s called the Blind Guy cause he’s blind for those that wonder. “You gonna have food?” “Getting Chinese takeaway.” Nothing better in Las Vegas than Chinese authentic takeaway served by Pablo and Jesus. In this case China-A-Go-Go which is misleading as there are no dancing girls so surely A-Go-Go must have two meanings. “Got any beer?” “Corona, Miller Genuine and Heineken.” “What time?” “6PM.” The die had been cast. MORE

Mike Weaver: An Unlikely Champion

If I was to tell you there was once a heavyweight who lost his first professional fight by knockout. Also this heavyweight would actually lose half of his first dozen fights. If I told you he would go on to win a piece of the heavyweight crown and be a major player in the division for well over a decade. Would you believe me?

Well this is a true Cinderella story. It is the career of former WBA heavyweight titleholder Mike "Hercules" Weaver. Who in my opinion for nearly a five year period he was the second best heavyweight in the world. MORE

A Few Thoughts on Morales and Mayweather

By Tom Donelson

The big news from last Saturday night was Erik Morales victory in capturing his WBC version of the junior welterweight championship belt. This is significant for a talent driven division as Morales will add a popular attraction to supplement the young talent that fight in that division.

With the rise of Amir Khan, the junior welterweights feature a group of young talented fighters including Devon Alexander, Tim Bradley, Marcos Maidana, Lucas Matthysse and Lamont Peterson, so this is a deep division. Morales managed to get his title shot against Pablo Cesar Cano despite losing his last fight against Maidana by a close decision. Only in the world of boxing does a fighter loses a fight manages to get a title shot but if that fighter is a name fighter who can put seats in the arena; then he gets the nod. It is about the money. MORE

BELIEVE IT OR NOT!

WINKY WRIGHT HELPING TRAIN CHAD DAWSON FOR HOPKINS FIGHT

Beloved former world champion and one-time Bernard Hopkins opponent, Ronald "Winky" Wright is in camp in the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania, serving as a training advisor to former light heavyweight champion "Bad" Chad Dawson, as Dawson prepares to face the current WBC and Ring Magazine Light Heavyweight World Champion Hopkins on Saturday, October 15, at the STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, California.

Dawson vs. Hopkins, an evening of elite professional boxing entitled "Believe it or Not", will be presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate, AT&T and Ripley's Believe It or Not. It will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/ 6:00 p.m. PT. MORE

THE SQUARE RING Sept, 8 , 2011

While boxing fans in the USA decry the fact that boxing is not longer front page news in their bird cage flooring (aka The Sports Pages) the sport is flourishing in the rest of the world. As pointed out by WBC President Dr. Jose’ Suliaman the center of the boxing world is Mexico. He did enter a caveat to the effect that was for the lighter weight correctly pointing out that at heavier weights Eastern Europe (especially Germany) were top dogs.

So American boxing fans will have to swallow the bitter pills that when it comes to boxing they are top dogs only in terms of revenue. Just a few Saturdays ago two Ruskies, Ruslan Chagaev (27-1-1) & Alexander Povetkin (22-0), battled it out for the WBA heavyweight title in Germany. Boxing fans in the USA could have watched the match on EPIX live if they know what EPIX was. Povetkin won a surprisingly easy UD (117-113,117-113,116-112) in a fight that was atypical of today’s heavyweight bouts.

While not a great fight by traditional standards both fighters did throw punches and didn’t spent 12 rounds giving man hungs like guys appearing on the reality series “The A List”. Povetkin, trained by Teddy Atlas, will make his first defense against Evandler Holyfield in December 17 in Zurich. As the Lord of the Manor says with a sigh “Be still my heart”. MORE

Observation on This Weekend's Action

“Boxing is a easy sport if you have a jab.” George Foreman

The Heavyweight division is the Klitschko’s brothers personal fiefdom and everyone must pay tribute by taking a licking. Since 2004, no one has even come close to beating the Klitschko’s brothers and this past Saturday fight between Vitali Klitschko and Tomasz Adamek was no exception. Adamek, the former Cruiserweight and light heavyweight champion, proved game but no match for he was too small and did not possess enough of powerful punch to make a difference. The other problem for Adamek, was that at the age of 40, Vitali Klitschko still possesses sharp reflex to parry of any attacks. Klitschko is one of those tall fighters who fights like a tall fighter; using his jab effectively to control real estate. Throughout the bout, Adamek had problems with getting inside Klitschko’s jab and Klitschko averaged 40 plus jabs per round with those jabs successful blunting any attack that Adamek attempted. Unlike David Haye, who spent most of his bout against Wladimir avoiding combat, Adamek attempted to fight. MORE

MY CALL TO THE RING BY DEIRDRE GOGARTY

Fascinating peek into a wonderful book

DEIRDRE Gogarty held the Women’s International Boxing Federation featherweight title from 1997-98 in a career that saw her campaign in the UK and the USA as well as her native Ireland.

Just to climb into a ring, she had to break down barriers that prevented women from even training, let alone boxing competitively. MORE

Very Candid and Open: Floyd Mayweather Sr. Opens Up About Televised Fight with Son

Everybody has been talking about the big fight between Mayweather Jr. and Mayweather Sr. that was aired live on HBO’s 24/7 and later streamed on YouTube. No one knows the truth behind what took place other than those who were there. I ran into Floyd “Joy” Mayweather Sr. at the world famous Johnny Tocco’s Boxing Gym after the incident to get his side of the story. Approaching the situation and conversation there was never any hesitation or aggression from the champion trainer Floyd Joy. I came right out and asked him why did he curse his son out on national television, and he said, “I didn’t curse him out! He started with me. He told me I need to mind my own business. It started over a talk about our girl fighters who fought about a week ago. He started talking to me. Then he started calling me sissy and faggot and punk in front of a group of people on national tv. Anybody that’s grown is gonna respond to that! What he did was against the cardinal rule and he’s gonna have to answer to someone else for that." MORE

LIAKHOVICH COURAGEOUS PERFORMANCE DELIVERS
HEAVYWEIGHT EXCITEMENT

After turning in a thrilling, gutsy and bloody performance last night vs. Robert Helenius, in Erfurt, Germany, Former Heavyweight Champion Sergei Liakhovich was taken to a local emergency room in the early morning hours where a CT scan revealed that the warrior's nose had been broken in two places during the bout.

Gasping for breath from early in the third round when the first fracture occurred, until the fight was stopped in the ninth by veteran referee Stanley Christodoulu, Liakhovich suffered fractures of the bones located high up on the bridge of both the right and left sides of his nose. MORE

Thoughts on the Berto Zaveck Fight

Andre Berto was scheduled to fight on HBO but not the fight that he expected. A few months ago, Berto was readied for a possible fight with Floyd Mayweather, Jr. but it was Victor Ortiz who ended up with the fight after he upset Berto. Berto had his chance when he had Ortiz down in the sixth but Ortiz did not wilt and even knock Berto down in the same round. From that point Ortiz won the decision and Berto now is fighting to get back into the Welterweight elites. MORE

Full Coverage of Gamboa - Ponce De Ledon on Boxing Channel

Award winning boxing commentator Dave Bontempo will host full post fight coverage this Saturday, Sept.10 of the Yuriorkis Gamboa-Daniel Ponce De Leon featherweight title match on The Boxing Channel. All the coverage can be found by logging on to www.boxingchannel.tv. Gamboa won the WBA belt against Jorge Solis on March this year but the belt was later taken away from him for no clear reason; Gamboa will be facing Daniel Ponce De Leon, a former WBO Super bantamweight champ at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City. Boxing experts say this will be an exciting fight. Gamboa is undefeated at 20-0, and Ponce De Leon is 41-3, with 34 KO's. MORE

MANNY PACQUIAO - JUAN MANUEL MARQUEZ25,000-MILE INTERNATIONAL MEDIA TOUR ATTRACTS OVER 70,000 FANS WITH PUBLIC KICK OFF IN MANILA!

North America, Here We Come!

Sept. 6 - New York
Sept. 7 - Beverly Hills
Sept. 8 - México City*
(*Open to the Public)

Photo: Denmark Delores/Top Rank

MANILA – Congressman MANNY “Pacman” PACQUIAO and JUAN MANUEL MARQUEZ kicked off their 25,000-mile four-city international media tour, on Saturday, with an outdoor public rally at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila. Televised live nationally as an hour-long special on GMA 7, the rally attracted an estimated crowd of 70,000 enthusiastic Pacquiao and Marquez fans. Quirino Grandstand, named after former Philippine President Elpidio Quirino, is where Presidents of the Philippines traditionally take their oath of office and deliver their first address to the nation.

The media tour is announcing to the world Pacquiao-Marquez III -- Act Three of their exciting world championship trilogy. Pacquiao and Marquez, who have won world titles in 11 weight divisions between them, will go toe-to-toe for Pacquiao’s World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight championship on Saturday, November 12, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. MORE

WORLD BOXING COUNCIL NEWS

September 5, 2011 – Mexico City.

From the office of WBC President Dr. José Sulaimán:

The Countdown to the Future!

The WBC has partnered with iChannel to provide content from some of our top athletes to mobile devices: instructional clinics from some of the top boxers and coaches in the world. No one in boxing has, or will, duplicate this. We have forged relationships with Apple, Sony, Amazon and iTunes to create our own WBC Academy APP; Boxing Clinics that will be a part of an even larger presentation of other Sports Apps and Celebrity Athletes (Football, Basketball, Golf…). It will be available on all smart phones, iTunes, Netflix, Amazon, etc … and there will be no viable competition. MORE

Shaw Congratulates Armenian Hero Darchinyan for Landmark Victory

Gary Shaw of Gary Shaw Productions wishes to congratulate IBO bantamweight champion Vic "Raging Bull" Darchinyan (37-3-1, 27 KOs) for his dominant 12-round victory over Evans Mbamba (18-2, 9 KOs) at the Karen Demirchyan Sports Complex in Yerevan, Armenia, on Saturday.

Fighting as a professional for the first time in his native Armenia (in the first-ever professional boxing event ever held in the country), Darchinyan delighted over 12,000 screaming fans by battering the iron-jawed African for the duration of the contest. MORE

GUIDRY WINS FOURTH WORLD
MASTERS BOXING TITLE!!!

Seventy four year-old Lafayette, Louisiana native Ronald Guidry, of the Ragin' Cajun boxing Club, won the middleweight (165 lb.) championship of the World Ringside Boxing Tournament for the third year in a row. Guidry has won this championship four times in the past five years.

Guidry defeated Paul Soucy of Detroit, Michigan by unanimous three round decision. In round one Guidry dropped Soucy for an eight count, when he landed a hard left hook to Soucy's jaw. After beating the eight count, Soucy fought a totally defensive, survival type of fight, and seemed to be just trying to survive till the final bell. MORE

Judah Files Protest -
Requests Rematch With Khan

Zab "Super" Judah has filed a protest with the Nevada Athletic Commission and has also sent letters to both the WBA and the IBF requesting that those organizations order a rematch with Amir Khan. According to the protest letter, Judah's requests are predicated upon the inappropriate actions of the referee, who was clearly not in a position to see the low blow administered by Khan which ended the fight, as well as the referee's reluctance to sanction Khan for repetitious hitting behind the head and holding Judah down throughout the bout. MORE

Knockout Artist Escalera Looking To Put Another Foe to Sleep August 27
at the Tropicana

On Saturday, August 27, Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing returns to the beautiful Tropicana Ballroom in the Tropicana Casino and Resort in Atlantic City with co-featured headliners, Vinny Maddalone and Shamone Alvarez. Before those featured bouts take place, Star Boxing's hard hitting undefeated super middleweight prospect, Jason "Monstruo" Escalera (11-0, 10 KOs) will look to produce some early fireworks on the undercard when he takes on fellow knockout artist Mickey Scarborough (6-3, 6 KOs) in a six round super middleweight showdown.

Escalera, who hails from Union City, NJ, is an exciting prospect, with concussive power in either hand. After winning the 2007 NJ Golden Gloves, Escalera turned pro on February 9th, 2008 and scored the first of his so far ten career knockouts, dropping his opponent three times before the referee called a halt to the contest in the very first round. Escalera would have three more fights in 2008, winning all three by knockout. MORE

Fight Club OC TV Launched!

"With all due respect to the great folks at Top Rank, Golden Boy Promotions, and Gary Shaw Productions, the Fight Club OC show last Thursday night in The Hangar at the OC Fair & Event Center might have been the best fight night in the USA in 2011" claimed Fight Club OC promoter Roy Englebrecht, after his sold out crowd of 1,435 fans saw all five bouts bring the capacity crowd to their feet time after time, and money thrown into the ring after three of the bouts.

So what better time to announce the launch of Fight Club OC TV then with the entire Fight Club OC five bout Thursday show now available so that fight fans around the globe can enjoy this electrifying night of action. For only $4.99 fans can go to www.fightcluboc.com and order the show thru the Fight Club OC TV button, and receive not only the five bout card, but all the entertainment and promotional elements that go into making the Fight Club OC shows the best entertainment and sports value in the fight business today. MORE

Fight Night at the Horseshoe
Undercard Results

On the non-televised undercard of the Hitz Boxing in Association with Banner Promotions' Fight Night at the Horseshoe ESPN Friday Night Fights event on Friday, August 19 at Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana, former world champion Montell "Ice" Griffin (50-8-1, 30 KOs) of Chicago notched his landmark 50th professional victory with a hard-fought unanimous decision over former world title challenger Deandrey Abron (15-10, 10 KOs) of Youngstown, Ohio. The two light heavyweights traded bombs throughout, but Griffin had the faster, more accurate hands. The scores were 80-72 x 3. MORE

Upcoming Fight Schedule

August 25
At Los Angeles (FSN): Hector Serrano vs. Juan Garcia, 6 rounds, lightweights; Ramon  Valadez vs. Noe Lopez Jr., 6 rounds, lightweights; Roberto Rios vs. TBA, 4 rounds,  junior lightweights; Jose Sanchez vs. Ricardo Garcia, 4 rounds, junior lightweights;  Ernesto Ocon vs. TBA, 4 rounds, welterweights; Dion Savage vs. Edward Tigs, 6  rounds, super middleweights

August 26
At Chicago (Telefutura): Frankie Gomez vs. Adrian Granados, 8 rounds, junior  welterweights; Omar Figueroa vs. Marcos Herrera, 8 rounds, lightweights; Jaime  Herrera vs. TBA, 6 rounds, welterweights; Luis Santiago vs. Clifford McPherson, 4  rounds, welterweights; Juan Bustamante vs. TBA, 4 rounds, lightweights; Juan Carlos  Fernandez vs. Jafar Kirtley, 4 rounds, junior featherweights; Daniel Sotelo vs.  Ronnie Fuentez, 4 rounds, welterweights

At Kissimmee, Fla. (Telemundo): Jose Nieves vs. Cuauhtemoc Vargas, rematch, 12  rounds, junior featherweights; Hairon Socarras vs. TBA, 4 rounds, junior  featherweights; Erkan Teper vs. TBA, 6 rounds, heavyweights; Roberto Rios Jr. vs.  TBA, 4 rounds, welterweights; Philip Penson vs. Angel Martinez, 4 rounds,  middleweights; Roger Rosa vs. Larry Yanez, 4 rounds, lightweights; Luis Torres vs.  Jordan Wisenfeld, 4 rounds, junior middleweights; Michael Mendez vs. Antonio  Infante, 4 rounds, junior middleweights; Danny Pastrana vs. Jaime Orozco, 4 rounds,  middleweights; Amos Cowart vs. William Rodriquez, 4 rounds, junior welterweights;  Travis Castellon vs. Jose Rivera, 4 rounds, lightweights; Xavier Burgos vs. TBA, 4  rounds, junior welterweights

At Donetsk, Ukraine: Vyacheslav Senchenko vs. Marco Antonio Avendano, 12 rounds, for  Senchenko's WBA welterweight title; Karoly Balzsay vs. Stas Kashtanov, 12 rounds,  for vacant WBA "regular" super middleweight title

MORE

The Square Ring August 19, 2011

The most difficult job in any sport is that of an official. In many cases their split second decisions based on knowledge, experience and ability can change the course of a competition and the outcome. Officials even when in position to make the correct call make mistakes. Most professional athletics accept that as fact with the caveat that mistakes even out in the long run. In what Yanks consider minor sports, mostly in the Olympics, the officials are out and out crooks. From French figure skating to a Korean boxing judges they are morally corrupt with a conscience think as the ice cap in the Sahara. Contrary to popular belief that is not the case with boxing. Boxing commissions are appointed by politicians those appointments are usually more about politics than boxing knowledge. Therefore too often referee’s and judges are appointed to work fights not on ability but for political reasons. The appointments must be “politically correct” the hell with ability. MORE

WBC Convention Open to Public

The World Boxing Council is happy to confirm its 49th Annual World Convention to take place at the Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada, from December 11 to 17 in what is expected to be the highest attendance ever to a boxing convention.

The WBC will open its doors to boxing fans that want to live the experience of a great convention in which representatives of 164 countries of the world will meet for a week, which will be full of workshops, as well as special events with the presence of 50 of the greatest champions in the history of boxing. MORE

FIGHT NIGHT AT THE HORSESHOE PUBLIC WEIGH-IN ADVISORY

COME TO THE HORSESHOE CASINO (BALLROOM C ON THE 3RD FLOOR) ON THURSDAY, AUGUST 18 AT 5 PM FOR THE OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN AND MEET ALL FIGHTERS AND ORGANIZERS FOR THE SEASON FINALE OF FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS BEING HELD THE FOLLOWING NIGHT! ALL ARE WELCOME!

The media and general public are invited to the official weigh-in for Hitz Boxing's "Fight Night at the Horseshoe" event at the Horseshoe Casino
(777 Casino Center Dr., Hammond, Indiana, in Ballroom C on the third floor) on Thursday, August 18 AT 5 PM.

The ESPN-televised "Fight Night at the Horseshoe" will be held the following night at the Horseshoe Casino, featuring in the main event, scheduled for 10 rounds in the junior middleweight division, former two-time world amateur champion and 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius Andrade, 13-0 with 9 knockouts, of Providence, Rhode Island, stepping up in class against his most accomplished and dangerous opponent yet as a pro - veteran Grady Brewer, 28-12 with 16 knockouts, of Lawton, Oklahoma.

The co-featured bout, scheduled for 10 rounds in the lightweight division, could stand as a main event on its own - former WBC lightweight world champion David Diaz, 36-3-1 with 17 knockouts, of Chicago, will battle rising contender "Hammerin'" Hank Lundy, 20-1-1 with 10 knockouts, of Philadelphia. MORE

Diaz Said He Was Retired...
Mrs. Diaz Knew Better

Chicago's David Diaz (36-3-1, 17 KOs) has his wife to Tonya to thank when he appears in the co-featured bout of the final episode of ESPN's "Friday Night Fights" 2011 season, this Friday, August 19, at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana.

The Former WBC lightweight world champion and 1996 U.S. Olympian had all but retired from boxing.

"My wife is a big boxing fan. We were watching fights and I would tell her I used to do this stuff and she'd say it looks like you miss it; why not go to the gym? She told me two or three times and finally I said I'll go to the gym and see if I like it... The first day I stayed in the gym for four hours. People were saying 'Dave you should relax,' and I would say 'You don't know how much I miss this!' It all came back."

And so he is back to face Philadelphia's rising contender "Hammerin'" Hank Lundy (20-1-1, 10 KOs) in a lightweight bout scheduled for 10 rounds. MORE

Mares defeat Ironballs Agbeko

Joseph Agbeko needs a new nickname, “Ironballs” Agbeko for Agbeko suffered repeatedly low blows all night delivered by Abner Mares. The failure of the referee Russell Mora to control the action within the ring overshadowed a competitive fight between two excellent bantamweights.

Mares came out fast in the early rounds, and even knocked Agbeko down for a brief knockdown in the first round. Mares launched a series of combinations as Agbeko started to slip and a left hook on the top of the head sent Agbeko down. Agbeko got back up but Mares simply attacked over the last minute of the round.

The second and third round saw Mares attacking the body with left hooks and occasionally low blows along with solid rights to score effective. Agbeko timing looked off and his jab ineffectual. His right hand, his best punch, was non-existent. It wasn’t until the last minute of the fourth round that Agkebo finally connected on a solid left. MORE

Demetrius Andrade vs. Grady Brewer Headlines, David Diaz vs. Hank Lundy
in Co-Feature

AT HORSESHOE CASINO IN HAMMOND, INDIANA, ON AUG. 19; TELEVISED LIVE ON ESPN’S “FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS”

Art Pelullo/Banner Promotions, Bobby Hitz/Hitz Boxing, Joe DeGuardia/Star Boxing, and Prizefight Promotions will present a sensational fight card on Friday, August 19, 2011, at the Horseshoe Casino, located at 777 Casino Center Drive in Hammond, Indiana. The main event, co-featured bout, and other selected fights will be televised live on ESPN2, ESPN Deportes – ESPN’s Spanish-language network - and ESPN3.com, the network’s broadband platform service. It is the final fight card of ESPN’s “Friday Night Fights” 2011 season. MORE

NO. 7!

Manny Pacquiao Cracks the Top-10 with
Dan Hill’s “Sometimes When We Touch”

He came, he sang, he recorded.

Congressman MANNY “Pacman” PACQUIAO, boxing’s No. 1 pound for pound fighter inside the ring is becoming a hit machine outside the ring. His remake of the Dan Hill-penned hit, Sometimes When We Touch, which was released on April 28, cracked the Top-10 this week, landing at No. 7 on the Secondary Adult Contemporary Chart as measured by the Friday Morning Quarterback Album Report (FMQB.) As it has throughout its run, Sometimes When We Touch remains a Top-Five most-added song on radio station playlists this week. MORE

Anderson Too Slick for Guereca

On the undercard of Friday's "Clash at the Chumash" event at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, California, welterweight prospect "Slick" Michael Anderson moved his record to 11-0-1, 9 KOs by making quick work of journeyman Bernardo Guereca via KO 1 (2:19).

From East Orange, New Jersey, 30-year-old Anderson is a natural to the sport. Despite having just 13 unpaid fights, he was New Jersey State amateur champion before turning professional in late 2007.

With blazing-fast hands and feet and a penchant for digging to the body, Anderson's style is reminiscent of his fistic idol, "Sugar" Shane Mosley.

"If you didn't look at his amateur record you'd think he's been fighting since he's eight years old," said Anderson's promoter, Gary Shaw of Gary Shaw Productions. "The way he moves and slips punches is amazing to watch and he's got great power for such a speedy fighter."

Anderson had a draw in his third fight against California's Dashon Johnson (now 13-4), but stopped Johnson in a rematch in December of last year.

Chavez vs. Hearns is On!

Confirmed: This september 17th will be the clash of the sons of the living legends:

Julio Cesar Chavez Jr (43-0-1, 30 ko's)
(son of Julio Cesar Chavez Sr.)
In his first defense of the WBC Middleweight world champion belt

vs

Ronald Hearns (26-2-0, 20 ko's)
(son of Tommy Hearns)

Both fathers JC Chavez Sr. and Tommy Hearns are Inductees of the International Boxing Hall of fame

Andrade Looking to Make Statement
Against Dangerous Brewer
in Main Event on
ESPN'S Friday Night Fights

Next Friday, August 19th, the 2007 Amateur World Champion, and 2008 U.S. Olympian, Demetrius Andrade (13-0, 9KO's) will step up in competition and look to make a huge statement, when he takes on dangerous veteran, and winner of Season 2 of "The Contender" Grady Brewer (28-12, 16KO's) in the main event on this year's finale of ESPN's "Friday Night Fights" at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana. The bout, which was put together on very short notice after the original main event fell through, is scheduled for ten rounds; the first of Andrade's career; in the jr. middleweight division. MORE

Association of Boxing Commissions Condemns “Bare-Knuckle Boxing”

The  Association of Boxing Commissions (“ABC”), a national organization of state and tribal boxing and combat sport commissions, has condemned a “bare knuckle” boxing contest, held at the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation Casino and Hotel in Fountain Hill, Arizona (outside of Scottsdale) on August 5, 2011, as being “abhorrent, barbaric, egregious, in contravention of a multitude of federal, state, and tribal boxing laws and regulations, and, perhaps, criminal.” The “bare-knuckle” boxing contest pitted Bobby Gunn (whom, it has been purported, helped spearhead the event), with a professional boxing record of 21-4-1 (18 wins by KO), against Richard Stewart with a professional boxing record of 14-9-2 who lost the last five boxing contests in which he participated. According to news accounts, “in the third round, Gunn launched a devastating assault on Stewart’s body, followed up by a crisp left hook to the jaw, bringing Stewart to the canvas. Upon getting up, Stewart was grazed with a right cross on the top of his head, dropping him again.” The bout was then stopped “in the best interest of Stewart’s health.” MORE

Anderson Too Slick for Guereca

On the undercard of Friday's "Clash at the Chumash" event at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, California, welterweight prospect "Slick" Michael Anderson moved his record to 11-0-1, 9 KOs by making quick work of journeyman Bernardo Guereca via KO 1 (2:19).

From East Orange, New Jersey, 30-year-old Anderson is a natural to the sport. Despite having just 13 unpaid fights, he was New Jersey State amateur champion before turning professional in late 2007.

With blazing-fast hands and feet and a penchant for digging to the body, Anderson's style is reminiscent of his fistic idol, "Sugar" Shane Mosley.

"If you didn't look at his amateur record you'd think he's been fighting since he's eight years old," said Anderson's promoter, Gary Shaw of Gary Shaw Productions. "The way he moves and slips punches is amazing to watch and he's got great power for such a speedy fighter."

Anderson had a draw in his third fight against California's Dashon Johnson (now 13-4), but stopped Johnson in a rematch in December of last year.

Kelly Pavlik Withdraws From
Darryl Cunningham Fight

Top Rank Forced to Cancel Saturday’s
Nationally-Televised Event in Youngstown

Former World Middleweight Champion and current World Boxing Council (WBC) No. 1-rated super middleweight contender KELLY “The Ghost” Pavlik’s professional boxing comeback took a wrong turn inasmuch as Pavlik withdrew from his upcoming 10-round bout against Darryl Cunningham today. The Pavlik-Cunningham bout was scheduled to take place on Saturday at the Covelli Centre in Youngstown, OH, and was to be televised live on SHOWTIME® as the main event of a special edition of ShoBox: The New Generation. Both the broadcast and the live event have been canceled. Ticketholders can get a refund by returning their tickets to the place of purchase.

“Top Rank is very disappointed at Kelly’s sudden decision to discontinue the rebuilding of his boxing career,” said Todd duBoef, president of Top Rank, Pavlik’s promoter. “Kelly’s team specifically outlined a strategy for Kelly to return to the ring in an effective fashion. Kelly’s team gave us their objectives and we set them on a course, which began last May with Kelly’s fight against Alfonso Lopez and was to continue on Saturday against Darryl Cunningham. It seems Kelly has derailed this plan.”

The New Science of the Boxer's Brain: Why football progresses and boxing doesn't

In April 1985, Dr. John Stiller told a congressional sub-committee that football was just as dangerous as boxing. The hearing was held because the Journal of the American Medical Association was pushing for a ban of boxing. It had published multiple studies about how the sport caused long-term brain damage. Stiller was there to defend boxing. Rather than ban the sport, he argued, doctors needed to do more research on how to make it safer. It was unfair, he added, that boxing was being singled out as the dangerous and vicious sport. One of the congressmen asked the editor of the journal whether any studies had been done on brain trauma in football. The editor said, No, there had not.

Over the past nine years, the risks of football have been studied and doctors found that football players suffered from the same long-term brain damage that boxers had for decades been known to have: a degenerative brain disease called chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). And now the football doctors are getting all the credit for discovering the long-term risk of brain trauma in sports, for conducting the same studies the boxing doctors had done nearly 30 years before. MORE

Strictly Business in Houston

They make their heavyweights big in Texas. Just ask George Foreman. The heavyweights are a breeding ground in the Texas area, especially in Houston where there are several making some noise. One in particular is popular prospect Herman “Skip” Scott seeking his 14th straight win on July 28th at the Houston Club in Houston, Texas.

Outside the ring you would think HERMAN SKIP SCOTT is a model or even a basketball player when you look at his sculpted body of 6’ 8” and 255 pounds. He outdresses most promoters and throws more punches than most lightweights. He has that Sugar Ray Leonard smile out of the ring and a ferocity of a young Mike Tyson in the ring. His last two opponents weren’t just stopped. They were ferociously knocked out falling like trees being chopped down by lumberjacks. Yet out of the ring he is a salesman. He sells mortgages on commercial and residential properties and he’s good at it. MORE

Lonnie Smith Returns Friday

Super-featherweight “El Negro Mexicano”, “Lightning” Lonnie Smith (13-2-2, ) is back in action Friday, July 29th at the South Point Hotel/Casino in Las Vegas.

Coming off an impressive unanimous decision win over Oxnard’s “Dangerous” David Rodella in April, Smith looks to advance his career by facing California’s Robert Vargas (5-1). This will be “Lightning Lonnie’s” second televised fight in a row.

“The ultimate goal is to be champion.” Says Smith. “And I train like one, so that is the next step.”

After appearing on several of their shows, Let’s Get It On Promotions inked a long- term promotional agreement with Smith this year. MORE

Hitz Inks Quartet of Talented Fighters

Chicagoland promoter Bobby Hitz is proud to announce he has signed a quartet of talented fighters to promotional agreements including the Brothers Amidu, Yakubu and Abdullai, talented lightweight Chris Singleton, and a co-promotional deal (along with Square Ring Promotions) with Chicago's own former world heavyweight title challenger "Fast" Fres Oquendo.

26-year-old Los Angeles-based Ghanaian Yakubu "Black Mamba" Amidu (19-2-1, 17 KOs), is the current NABA-US Lightweight Champion. He made his Chicago-area debut last April with a unanimous decision over capable John Revish and followed it up with an impressive knockout over Damon Antoine in Rosemont, Illinois, last May. MORE

Shaw Signs Heavyweight
Franklin Lawrence

Gary Shaw Productions is proud to announce the signing of a true late bloomer in the sport of boxing, Indianapolis, Indiana, heavyweight Franklin "Yah Yah" Lawrence.

The 35-year-old Lawrence (15-2-2, 10 KOs), who didn't turn pro until his late 20s, is undoubtedly the hottest heavyweight prospect in boxing.

He won the vacant IBO Inter-Continental heavyweight title in September 2009 with a seventh-round stoppage of long-time top contender Lance "Mount" Whitaker.

Then, on January 29 of this year, Lawrence won the vacant WBC Caribbean Boxing Federation Heavyweight Title by stopping former US Olympian Jason "Big Six" Estrada in 10 at the Turning Stone Casino in New York. MORE

City Boxing's Denis Grachev
Stops Caminero

Light heavyweight Denis “The Pirate” Grachev (11-0-1, 7 KOs) picked up the WBC Inter-Continental belt via a third-round stoppage victory over Eddie “Thunder” Caminero (7-5, 7 KOs). Picking off his wild-swinging opponent with crisper, stronger shots, Grachev steadily increased his output going into the third round, dazing Caminero along the ropes. Referee Frank Gentile jumped in to stop the action at 1:29 of the round, much to the chagrin of Caminero and the vocal crowd.

Russian-born light heavyweight Denis “The Pirate” Grachev (11-0-1, 7 KOs) of San Diego plundered the vacant WBC Inter-Continental belt with his 3rd-round stoppage over Eddie “Thunder” Caminero (7-5, 7 KOs) of Lawrence, Massachusetts in the 10-round main event. Grachev, the 28-year old former two-time World Kickboxing champion, continues to win on the road– scoring successive prior victories against former unbeaten fighters Vladine Biosse in Connecticut and Haitian Azea Augustama in Miami. MORE

Fight Report: British Boxing At Its Very Best - Fury Beats Chisora, Theophane and Toms Retain Their Crowns In Style

British Boxing is alive and kicking. Last week we were treated to one of the best domestic battles in a long, long time, Kevin Mitchell-John Murray. Last night, at the Mick Hennessy promoted event at Wembley Arena, boxing fans were treated to not just the best Heavyweight fight of the year so far but also a quality undercard absolutely rammed with top quality all action bouts.

Heading up the show was the eagerly awaited Heavyweight showdown between British and Commonwealth Champion “Del Boy” Dereck Chisora and Tyson Fury. In the build up to the fight there was plenty of comparing this domestic biggie with the recent Wladimir Klitschko-David “Hayemaker” Haye mega fight. MORE

Butch Lewis passes

By Bob Caico

Flamboyant boxing promoter Butch Lewis (best known for promoting the Spinks Brothers) reportedly passed away today after a heart attack. He was just 65. More details when available.

Giant Killer Does it Again!

Pat McAleese Interview - Talks Title Shot This Weekend, Ryan Toms, Lee Noble, Fran Gonzalez

This Saturday Newmarket Light Middleweight prospect “Phat” Pat McAleese gets a much deserved shot at the BBBofC Southern Area title, on the undercard of the highly anticipated British and Commonwealth Heavyweight title clash between Dereck Chisora and Tyson Fury, at the Wembley Arena in London.

Pat, who’s record stands at 12-1-1, will be challenging Northolt’s Ryan Toms for the belt he won against Scott Woolford back in May this year.

For those that have yet to see ‘Phat’ Pat fight he’s an exciting all action box-fighter that throws extraordinary amount of shots, often around a hundred punches a round. MORE

Thoughts on Weekend Action
and Boxing News

In a rock em, sock em type of a fight in which the action was non-stop, Delvin Rodriquez and Pawel Wolak went toe to toe while fans simply cheered. Wolak is one of those high pressure fighters who come forward with evil intentions and Rodriquez loves his uppercut that snaps back the head of on rushing attackers like Wolak.

True to script, Wolak attacked the body of Rodriquez while Rodriquez used his patented uppercuts and combinations to counterattack the onrushing Wolak. By the fourth round, Wolak’s eyes showed the effect of eating many of those uppercuts as his eyes started to swell. MORE

HOOK TO THE BODY

By José Sulaimán

MANTEQUILLA NÁPOLES AND THE OLD MEXICO.

I traveled with a gentleman that knew as much or more about boxing than many that claim to be the Bible of boxing. He took my mind to the old Mexico, when Juan Zurita used to always defeat Joe Conde, but Conde beat Casanova three times, speaking to him in English, but Casanova beat Zurita in all of their fights; Raúl “Ratón” Macías used to fill all arenas and built the Arena México, just as Babe Ruth built Yankee Stadium because of their idolatry of the fans; Kid Rapidez being the last to leave the plane with Ultiminio Ramos at their arrival in Lagos, Nigeria, with a big wood cross and a red cap, as that would scare and send way the witches that he thought would be drawn to them; the hatred of many fans, especially those that liked tequila, because he always beat their idol, Toluco López. And we continued remembering with nostalgia those years of the bohemia in boxing. I had never had such a short flight – it felt like the landing came immediately after the take-off. MORE

Molina Calling Out all 154-lb Champions

Chicago's "King" Carlos Molina and his team are sending out a challenge to the rest of the world's best junior middleweights.

Molina (19-4-2, 6 KOs) established himself as an elite fighter with a near shutout unanimous decision over former world champion Kermit Cintron last Saturday night at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California, and live on the SHOWTIME network.

"It's no longer a secret that Carlos Molina is the world's best 154-lb fighter," said Leon Margules of Warriors Boxing. "This is an open call to all the champions, Miguel Cotto, Canelo Alvarez, Austin Trout, K9 Bundradge and Sergei Dzinziruk: Carlos Molina is ready and able to take any of you on." MORE

Dirrell Faces Engel in Friday Night Fights

Main Event on July 22

On Friday, July 22, 2011, at the Morongo Casino Resort in Cazabon, California, and live on ESPN Friday Night Fights, Gary Shaw Productions will proudly present Fight Night at Morongo Casino Resort, featuring Flint, Michigan's WBC #4-rated contender Anthony "The Dog" Dirrell (22-0, 19 KOs) taking on Saint Louis, Missouri's Kevin "Hitman" Engel (18-4, 15 KOs) in the 10-round super middleweight main event.

26-year-old Dirrell, the brother of Olympic bronze medallist Andre, will be looking to stay unbeaten while he waits for a world title shot. He was last seen in front a huge hometown crowd in Michigan, stopping former Olympian Dante Craig in five rounds with a body shot. Against Dirrell, 31-year-old Engel will be looking to pull the same kind of upset magic he sprung on up-and-coming contender Darryl Cunningham in 2007. MORE

Shaw Signs Heavyweight
Franklin Lawrence

Gary Shaw Productions is proud to announce the signing of a true late bloomer in the sport of boxing, Indianapolis, Indiana, heavyweight Franklin "Yah Yah" Lawrence.

The 35-year-old Lawrence (15-2-2, 10 KOs), who didn't turn pro until his late 20s, is undoubtedly the hottest heavyweight prospect in boxing.

He won the vacant IBO Inter-Continental heavyweight title in September 2009 with a seventh-round stoppage of long-time top contender Lance "Mount" Whitaker.

Then, on January 29 of this year, Lawrence won the vacant WBC Caribbean Boxing Federation Heavyweight Title by stopping former US Olympian Jason "Big Six" Estrada in 10 at the Turning Stone Casino in New York. MORE

RODRIGUEZ-WOLAK EXCLUSIVE
HEAD-TO-HEAD INTERVIEW

FIGHT THIS FRIDAY AT ROSELAND BALLROOM
ON ESPN'S "FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS"

This Friday night, Delvin Rodriguez (25-5-2, 14 KO's) and Pawel "Raging Bull" Wolak (29-1, 19 KO's) will step into the ring against one another, in their highly anticipated ten round jr. middleweight showdown, promoted by Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing and being broadcast live on ESPN's "Friday Night Fights" from the Roseland Ballroom in NYC. The match-up has the boxing world buzzing in anticipation, as both Rodriguez and Wolak have exciting styles, and as anyone who has seen them before know, they always come to fight and leave everything they have in the ring. Before the two combatants step inside the ring, they both sat down to give their take on the fight. MORE

TKO BOX OFFICE and Graham Earl Promotions Proudly Present: Renaissance

July 31, 2011 @ Liquid Nightclub, Luton

Graham Earl To Showcase Local Fighters On His 31st July “Renaissance”  Show

With the rematch of his classic 2007 “Fight of the Year”  encounter with Michael Katsidis firmly on hold for the foreseeable future, Graham Earl is keeping busy by presenting his third event of the year, “Renaissance”, which will take place in his home town of Luton on Sunday, July 31.

Heading up the card at the “Renaissance”  event are a pair of Graham Earl” s prodigies: Stevenage’s Terry Holmes and Belfast’s Joe Hillerby.

Terry Holmes has proved to be nothing short of sensational on his three previous outings, his last outing, against Jason Nesbitt at York Hall in May, is a fine example of the Stevenage teenager’s battling spirit

Holmes started strong and took the fight to the much more experienced Nesbitt. Each attack by him was met with strong resistance, Nesbitt countered with precision forcing Holmes to rethink his fight plan. It was a close round but Holmes had done the better work to earn the points. MORE

Chicago's Own David Diaz to Headline August 19 Night of Boxing at Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana

Former WBC Champion Will Fight in Main Event of Hitz Boxing Night of World-Class Boxing

Hitz Boxing will return to the luxurious "Venue" in the Horseshoe Casino, in Hammond, Indiana, on Friday, August 19 for a night of world-class boxing, featuring Chicago's former WBC Lightweight Champion David Diaz in the main event.

Diaz (36-3-1, 17 KOs) won the world championship in 2006 against Jose Armando Santa Cruz and successfully defended against all-time-great Erik Morales via unanimous decision before falling short in a valiant stand against pound-for-pound superstar Manny Pacquiao in an exciting high-profile showdown in 2008. Diaz also has victories over former world champions Jesus Chavez and Ener Julio. MORE

Rodriguez Ready to Grab The Bull by the Horns -- Takes On Wolak Friday Night

This Friday night, long-time welterweight contender, and former world title challenger, Delvin Rodriguez, will step up in weight, and look to stake his claim amongst the elite of the jr. middleweight division, when he takes on red-hot, all-action, Pawel "Raging Bull" Wolak (29-1, 19KO's) in the main event bout of the evening on ESPN's "Friday Night Fights". The bout, which will take place at New York City's famed Roseland Ballroom, is promoted by Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing and is scheduled for ten rounds.

Boxing is a sport like no other. All it takes is one night, even just one punch, to change everything in your career. Rodriguez, who has suffered some bitter, and highly controversial defeats the past few years, see's his fight against Wolak as just that. MORE

NABO Light Heavyweight
Champ ANDREJ FONFARA IL
Interim     

1 Elvir Muriqi N.Y.
2 Ismayl Silakh CA
3 Yordanis Depaigne FL
4 Marcus Oliveira KA
5 Tommy Karpency PA
6 Joey Spina R.I.
7 Sergey Kovalev N.C.
8 Lafarrell Bunting TN
9 Chuck Mussachio N.J.
10 Will Rosinsky N.Y.
11 Blake Prevost LA
12 Denis Grachev CA
13 Azea Augustana FL
14 Cedric Agnew IL
15 Anthony Russell MA

**    
WBO NATHAN CLEVERLY  
WBO INT. DMITRY SUKHOTSKY
ASIA-PACIFIC SOULAN POWNCEBY

Williams Makes Short Work of Lyons

Ragin' Cajuns Win Team Trophy

Lafayette's Marlon Williams (195 lbs.), of the Ragin' Cajun Boxing Club made short work of Golden Meadow's Terrance Lyons (201 lbs.) in their heavyweight bout at the historic Rice Theatre in Crowley, LA. Saturday afternoon (7-2-11). While David Haye was shooting his mouth off about knocking Wladimir Klitschko out in Germany, Williams let his fists do the talking and finished Lyons off with one left hook to the chin in 32 seconds. The more experienced Lyons (30 bouts) came out jabbing, but let one of his jabs come back a trifle low and Marlon (his eight bout) fired a devastating right hand that had Terrance on spaghetti legs. Referee Arthur Scott quickly rescued Lyons from further danger. MORE

The Standing Eight Count -
Hapless in Hamburg

The Heavyweight Championship of the world used to be the biggest prize in not only our beloved sport of Boxing, but in professional sports, period. The Heavyweight division has had a long line of historical big men throughout the sport’s rich history.

Jack Dempsey fought in front of 120,000 people at outdoor venues. Joe Louis had his bum of the month club and Rocky Marciano retired undefeated. Muhammad Ali proved he was indeed “The Greatest” as he fought legendary battles with Norton, Frazier and Foreman. “The Easton Assassin”, Larry Holmes got us through the post 70’s let down and led us straight to the Tyson dominance of the mid to late 80’s. From there, Evander Holyfield would treat us to many memorable Heavyweight wars, including his trilogy with Riddick Bowe. Their first encounter was by far the best of the three bouts as Bowe emerged from the initial meeting as the next Heavyweight superstar and Holyfield showed a courage in one of the greatest rounds in heavyweight history when he turned the tables on “Big Daddy” Bowe in the tenth round. MORE

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT (175#)
NABF CHAMPION: ISMAYL SYLLAKH, CA (D 4/6/11)), WBC #6
WBC CHAMPION: BERNARD HOPKINS, USA
AMERICAS CHAMPION: VACANT
CONTENDERS:
1. NOT RATED
2. TOMMY KARPENCY, PA
3. ANDRZEJ FONFARA, IL
4. YORDANIS DESPAIGUE, FL
5. MARCUS OLIVIERA, KS
6. RONSON FRANK, NY
7. ALEJANDRO BERRIO, NJ
8. SERGEY KOVALEV, NC
9. CEDRIC AGNEW, IN
10. WILL ROSINKSKY, NY
11. NICHOLSON POULARD, CAN
12. CHUCK MUSSACHIO, PA
13. JOE SPINA, RI
14. DENIS GRACHEV, CA
15. AZEA AUGUSTAMA,FL
16. BLAKE PREVOST, LA

The Square Ring July 5, 2011

Sport is filled with rules both written and unwritten.

In baseball (or “Rounders” for our friends in the UK) you don’t laugh at the pitcher after he’s tossed you a “gofer ball”. The penalty for that is a “high hard one to the old coconut” during the next at-bat. You never wear anything but white when playing on Center Court at Wimbledon which does allow women players to grunt like hogs rutting for the last acorn. In golf one doesn’t cough during the opponents back swing and “breaking wind” while a putt is lineup is a “no-no”.

Although the latter may produce a chuckle or 20.

These are actions are termed “bringing the sport into disrepute”. In boxing the sport was brought into disrepute, for what many though was the final time, when Tyson dined at the “Buffet de Holyfield de ear”. That might have been the last straw for a sport that had been pummeled for years. An un-written rule, “One mustn’t bite the ear of an opponent”, had been violated. The sport brought into disrepute and gone from the sport pages of America. MORE

LEGENDARY BACKYARD BRAWLER KIMBO SLICE TO MAKE BOXING PRO DEBUT AUGUST 13

Forget the kicking and wrestling, Kevin "Kimbo Slice" Ferguson will soon be where he should have been all along... busting heads in a boxing ring.

On Saturday, August 13, legendary street brawler Kimbo Slice will make his long-awaited professional boxing debut in the four-round main event of a Gary Shaw Productions and Tony Holden Promotions boxing extravaganza at Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Oklahoma.

Slice became the Internet's first street-certified action hero by smashing down a series of opponents in brutal backyard fist fights. The announcement is good news for fight fans, as he will surely administer a much-needed shot of adrenaline into the American heavyweight scene. MORE

STAR BOXING ANNOUNCES TERRIFIC MAIN EVENT FOR "KO CANCER" BENEFIT -UNDEFEATED HEAVYWEIGHT JOE HANKS TAKES ON THE CONTENDER'S
ALFREDO ESCALERA JR.

A press conference was held earlier today to announce the first annual "Knock Out Cancer" Boxing Benefit, presented by Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing, the American Cancer Society and Hunts Point Produce Market. The "Knock Out Cancer" event, which will be held outside at the Market Saturday July 23rd, will feature undefeated heavyweight prospect, Joe "The Future" Hanks (16-0, 11KO's) as he looks to capture his first title in the heavyweight division when he takes on former member of Season 4 of "The Contender" Alfredo Escalera Jr. (18-3-1, 12KO's). All the proceeds from the show will be donated to the American Cancer Society. MORE

WBA Official Ruling: Trout Remains Champion

Sanctioning Body Wisely Invalidates Highly Suspicious Positive Drug Test

WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Austin Trout and his support team are relieved and yet admittedly still angry after receiving final word from WBA Executive Vice President Gilberto Mendoza, Jr. that the WBA has ratified Trout as champion and invalidates the result of a positive post-fight drug test taken in Mexico.

In early June, Trout successfully defended his title against David Lopez by unanimous decision only to be informed afterward that the results of a dubious drug test came back positive for marijuana.

According to Team Trout and promoter Greg Cohen, proper procedures and protocol were not followed. The urine samples they took were not sealed and Trout wasn't asked to sign any paperwork. MORE

Up-and-Coming 6-ft 8-in. tall 250-lb American Heavyweight prospect Skip "Strictly Business" Scott Comments on July 2 Heavyweight Championship fight between Klitschko and Haye

Are you excited about the up coming fight between Klitschko and Haye?

I am excited. It is a very interesting fight and has been talked about for three years.

What were your thoughts when you saw the fight was finally made?

Exactly that, finally! But I do know it is a business and Haye did an incredible job promoting the fight and talking it up, so he not only has European fans interested but actually the World is going to be watching this fight. We haven't had that kind of excitement in the Heavyweight division in years. MORE

Thoughts on Friday Night

Friday night fight feature two interesting bouts. In the first bout Mike Dallas challenged Mauricio Herrera and in the second bout, John Molina prepared to fight Robert Frankel.

In the opening round of the first bout, Mauricio Herrera attacked throughout the round as he forced Dallas to retreat and Dallas did little to dissuade Herrera advances. Mike Dallas landed a sharp left hook as the third round wound down in a fight that was being fought on the inside.

In one of those unusual aspects of the sport, the timekeeper made a mistake and rang the bell thirty seconds short of the three minute in the fourth round, a round that Herrera was dominating the real estate on the inside. Herrera continued to pressure Dallas and nailed Dallas with some short accurate punches, including some vicious left hooks. Near the end of the round, Dallas managed to unleash short left hooks counter off the rope. MORE

Alexander Wins a Close One

Thoughts on HBO Card

Devon Alexander made his comeback fight after his first lost against Tim Bradley as he fought knockout artist Lucas Martin Matthysse in Saint Charles, Missouri, close to his hometown of Saint Louis.

The first bout of the evening was the big guys as Ray Austin got it on against Bermane Stiverne. Austin came out with jabbing as he maintained his distance throughout most of the opening round against the smaller Stiverne. Near the end of the second round, a Stiverne left hook sent Austin reeling and a right hand staggered Austin that allowed Stiverne to steal the round. MORE

Jose Peralta Alejo Signs Promotional
Contract with Main Events

Jose "Mangu" Peralta Alejo, (6-1, 4 KO's), of Jersey City, NJ, has signed a promotional agreement with Main Events. In his last fight on October 30, 2010, Jose upset former New York Golden Gloves Champion Christian Martinez who was 4-0 at the time. Mangu is a refreshing addition to the Junior Welterweight division.

"Jose is like a breath of fresh air. He's not only a likeable guy, he's got a hunger and enthusiasm that you don't see too often these days." said Main Events CEO, Kathy Duva. "It is also such a joy to be teaming up, again, with Pat Lynch and Mikey Red, whom we shared so much success and fun with while working with Arturo Gatti for so many years." MORE

Mike Alvarado Returns to the 303
in Homecoming Title Defense Against
México’s Gabriel Martinez

Saturday, July 30
Softball Country in North Denver

DENVER (June 27, 2011) -- Denver’s MIKE ALVARADO will risk his World Boxing Council (WBC) Continental Americas super lightweight title, his undefeated record and his Top-10 world rating when he takes on GABRIEL MARTINEZ in a homecoming rumble -- his first in over two years -- Saturday, July 30, at Softball Country (2101 West 64th Ave., Denver, CO 80221.) The vacant International Boxing Federation (IBF) Latino junior welterweight title will also be at stake. Alvarado and Martinez have a combined professional record of 57-2-1 (36 KOs) – a winning percentage of 95% and a victory by knockout ratio of 63%. MORE

NABFnews.com
JOE DWYER RE-ELECTED NABF PRESIDENT

The NABF Annual Convention was held June 5-8 at the Resorts Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Delegates from Canada, the United States, and Mexico met to review the priority actions of the sport of boxing.

Over 100 delegates coming from many different states of these three countries unanimously re-elected NABF president Joe Dwyer and his Executive Committee for a new two-year term.

WBC President Jose Sulaiman addressed the audience with a sensitive message which included a report of the WBC Cares Program and the presentation of a medal to Keaton Wong, a WBC Honorary Champion, who sadly passed away a few days ago after his high school graduation. MORE

Sizzling Summer Showdown:
Rodriguez to Take On Wolak
in Must See Fight July 15
On ESPN Friday Night Fights

On July 15th, Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing presents a highly anticipated ESPN "Friday Night Fights" card at New York City's famed Roseland Ballroom with a sensational main event, featuring exciting former welterweight world title challenger, Delvin Rodriguez (25-5-2, 14KO's) looking to throw himself into the mix of top jr. middleweight contenders when he takes on top rated, Pawel "Raging Bull" Wolak (29-1, 19KO's) in a can't miss, all-action showdown.

"This fight has all the makings to be a fight of the year candidate," stated Joe DeGuardia, CEO and President of Star Boxing, Rodriguez's promoter. "You have two guys who continuously produce fireworks each and every time they step into the ring, going up against one another in what is arguably the most important fight of their respective careers. These are the type of fights that as a true fight fan you just know you can't miss." MORE .

Cohen: There is No Doubt Trout
is the Real Thing

Greg Cohen, promoter of undefeated WBA Light Middleweight champion Austin "No Doubt" Trout (23-0, 13 KOs) wishes to congratulate Trout for his unanimous decision over David "The Destroyer" Lopez on Saturday, June 11 at the Auditorio Miguel Barragan in San Luis Potosi, Mexico.

Defending his title for the first time, Trout controlled the action against the formidable Lopez (40-12, 23 KOs), even dropping him in round eleven, to win by scores of 119-109, 117-110 and 118-109.

"David Lopez is a guy everyone had avoided," said an elated Cohen, post-fight. "He hadn't lost in 16 fights, spanning more than six years and Austin just walked into his backyard, with a packed house rooting against him, and dominated. Austin Trout belongs at the top of the list of the world's best junior middleweights, period end of story." MORE

"GIANT KILLER WINS TITLE NATIONALS!

Lafayette's Jessie "The Giant Killer" Fletcher of the Ragin' Cajun Boxing Club captured the 2011 Title National Championship. Jessie was crowned champ in the 11-12 year-old, 80 lb. age and weight division. The tournament was held in Memphis, Tennessee.

Eleven year-old Jessie, is a rising sixth grader at L.J. Alleman Middle School.

On Friday (June 10), Jessie scored a unanimous decision over Mitchell Bright of Knoxville, Tennessee. In the finals on Saturday, Fletcher dominated Alex Stone of Memphis over three rounds for another unanimous decision victory. The 2011 Title National Championship belt joins Jessie' 2010 National Title (75 lb. 9-10 year-old, age and weight division) and his 2010 Junior National Golden Gloves Championship belt.

http://www.ragincajunboxing.com Also Check us out on MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/rcabc

Weekend News

This weekend feature Austin Trout defending his WBA junior Middleweight title with a unanimous decision over veteran David Lopez south of the border. Trout speed gave Lopez trouble throughout most of the bout but the eleventh provided dynamite as both fighters nailed each other. Trout sent Lopez down for a flash knockdown but Lopez nailed Trout with a shot to the jaw that nearly sent Trout down.

The early part of the bout provided the pattern of the fight as Trout movement allowed him to escape the straight forward David Lopez, who couldn’t penetrate Trout defenses with any consistent offense. Trout is now 23-0 and looking for bigger bouts. MORE

Friday Night ShoBox Thoughts

Art Hovhannesyan fought Archie Ray Marquez in the opening bout of a ShoBox: The New Generation Friday triple header.

Both fighters started fast even though Hovhannesyan stated in pre fight interview that he would use the first round as a feeling out bout. Hovhannesyan had the first hard punches of the bout with a two solid rights and near the end of the round; Hovhannesyan nailed Marquez with a solid left hook.

In the second round, Hovhannesyan tried to suck Marquez in a brawl and over the last 30 seconds, both fighters did brawl as they both threw both solid punches but the best punch was a Hovhannesyan right uppercut. Hovhannesyan scored a flash knockdown with a solid right but Marquez was up quickly and didn’t look worse for wear. MORE

Froch moves on

Carl Froch was one fight away from facing Andre Ward and being a part of the Super Six tournament final. His opponent, Glen Johnson, was the ultimate road warrior and a fighter better than his record as he became one of the elite light heavyweights over the past decade. At the age of 42, Glen Johnson still had enough talent to be a threat and his most recent victory over the younger Allan Green reminded the boxing world that he was still one of the best in the world.

In the opening bout, Mikkel Kessler fought a warm up fight against Mehdi Bouadla. Bouadla pressed the action against the accomplished Kessler but halfway through the round, Kessler used his jab to set up combinations. Bouadla own jabs penetrated Kessler own defense as he kept the round close.

Six Boxing & MMA Bouts Set
First Ever Cigar Lounge This Thursday!

The Staples Center doesn't have one...the Honda Center doesn't have one...the MGM Grand Garden Arena doesn't have one....but this Thursday at Fight Club OC in The Hangar at the OC Fair & Event Center, fans will get to enjoy a first for the fight business in the last 20 years, a Cigar Lounge where you can purchase a cigar, smoke it right there, and watch all the action of the Fight Club OC pro show!

That's right, the inaugural Fight Club OC Cigar Lounge will be located right outside the giant Hangar Doors, which will be opened so that cigar aficionados can enjoy a good cigar and not miss one punch or kick. The Fight Club OC Cigar Lounge will be sponsored by Fumar Cigars which will have a great line up of quality cigars priced from $10 and up. MORE

Kayode Finishing up
'Best Training Camp Ever'

According to manager Steve Feder, cruiserweight powerhouse Lateef "Power" Kayode (16-0, 14 KOs) is finishing up his best training camp ever in preparation for his nationally televised battle with Rhode Island contender Matt "Too Smooth" Godfrey (20-2, 14 KOs).

Kayode and Godfrey will meet on June 10 in the 10-round main event at Chumash Resort Casino in Santa Ynez, California, and live on Showtime's popular series ShoBox: The New Generation at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

"This training camp was our best to date," said Feder. "In addition to our six days a week at Wild Card Boxing, we were able to work with Heavyweight Chris Arreola for two weeks in Riverside. He taught us a lot about dealing with and applying pressure. We also worked again with strength and conditioning coach Mike Vale and we added Juan Ruiz Bernabe to work specifically on short bursts and balance for speed work." MORE

Manny Pacquiao Settles Defamation Lawsuit
Against Richard Schaefer and
Oscar De La Hoya

Manny Pacquiao has settled his defamation lawsuit against Richard Schaefer and Oscar de la Hoya on confidential terms. In connection with the dismissal, Mr. Schaefer and Mr. De la Hoya made the following statement:

“Richard Schaefer and Oscar de la Hoya, on behalf of themselves and Golden Boy Promotions, wish to make it crystal clear that we never intended to claim that Manny Pacquiao has used or is using any performance enhancing drugs, and further state that we do not have any evidence whatsoever of such use.

Cruising with Beau Williford

Daniel Herbert's enthralling Louisiana diary (March 10-14 2011)

WHEN Beau Williford invited me to visit him in Lafayette, I didn’t expect I’d end up walking around the Louisiana town’s Home Depot looking for a toilet with former women’s world champion Deirdre Gogarty.

But then perhaps I shouldn’t have been too surprised, for during four days being chauffeured around Lafayette by Beau – the best taxi driver in the town, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise – I’d experienced just about everything. MORE

Team Puerto Rico:
Strength in Numbers

Galarza and Dulorme Spar Together for Their Respective Fights

Welterweight super prospect, Thomas Dulorme (11-0, 10 KO's), and hard-hitting 140-pound knockout artist Kenny "Battlestar" Galarza (14-1, 14 KO's) are sparring and training together in preparation for their respective ESPN-televised Boricua Invasion I fights at the Roseland Ballroom in New York City on Friday, June 10.

Dulorme, Galarza and several other members of Team Puerto Rico will be appearing in blockbuster back-to-back boxing events at the Roseland on June 10 and 11, entitled Boricua Invasion I & II. MORE

Nick Diaz Will Continue Mixed Martial Arts Career

Northern California, May 23, 2011 - Mixed Martial Arts Champion, Nick Diaz will continue pursuing his Mixed Martial Arts career instead of professional boxing as it has been deemed that it be in Nick's best interest to focus on his primary combat sport and profession. MORE

Highlights from Press ConferencesHeld in Poland and Germany for Adamek - Klitschko
Fight September 10

Vitali Klitschko:

"I like Poland. I've been here many times. I've lived here before. I have a lot of friends here. I have many good memories linked with Poland, they're positive. It just worked out that now I'll be fighting a Polish boxer. The most important thing to me will be the result. What more can I say? I think that it'll be a positive moment that will represent our countries. To quote Nelson Mandela: 'Sport has the strength to change the world'."

MORE

Team Johnson Predicting Easy Night Against Froch

"Training went very well and we're putting on the finishing touches. The hard work is done." Orlando Cuellar

Orlando Cuellar, trainer of Glen "Road Warrior" Johnson (51-14-2, 35 KOs) says he's expecting an easy night when his fighter takes on WBC super middleweight champion Carl "Cobra" Froch.

Johnson and Froch will meet in the Super Six World Boxing Classic Semifinal at the Adrian Phillips Ballroom at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City on Saturday, June 4 and televised live on SHOWTIME Championship Boxing starting at 9 PM ET/PT (delayed on the west coast). MORE

Karim "Hard Hitta" Mayfield
Returns to Ring on June 17, 2011 on ESPN Friday Night Fights

After signing a three-year contract with Prize Fight Boxing Promotions, undefeated welterweight prospect, Karim "Hard Hitta" Mayfield (13-0-1, 8 KO's), makes his way back to the ring after a one-year layoff.

The hard punching Mayfield who hails from San Francisco California, will battle Steve Forbes (35-9, 11 KO's) in a ten round bout. The fight is set to take place in Austin, Texas, on Friday June 17, 2011, and will be televised live on ESPN 2 Friday Night Fights as the co-feature to Fernando Guerrero (21-0, 16 KO's) vs. Michael Medina (24-3-2, 19 KO's).

"It's been tough getting fights over the course of my career but I'm ready to go," said Mayfield. "Steve Forbes is a veteran fighter that has fought some high quality guys and I expect his experience will be a challenge. Now that I've signed with Prize Fight I feel my career will take off." MORE

THE CITY WAITS NO LONGER AS SKIP KEEPS IT ‘STRICTLY BUSINESS’

The poster says it all as Skip “Strictly Business” Scott did exactly that Thursday night, May 19th, as he dismantled the tough and durable veteran Dennis McKinney in the 4th round. He took care of business as usual. Throwing great body shots coupled with hooks to the head Scott dropped McKinney twice in round 4 ending matters in less than 2 minutes. Quite a feat considering Houston prospects Fred Allen and Steve Collins had to go the distance with McKinney to beat him.

America is looking for the next heavyweight prospect. Skip Scott fits that bill. A 6’8” 250 pound giant with speed, great reflexes, and power to burn, he is making his mark as a hugely popular boxer in the Houston market. Add to his physical abilities a big smile, great build and charismatic personality, he becomes the whole package. Even when he dresses outside the ring you would think he was the promoter and not the boxer as he strolls around in his Calvin Klein suits calling on clients as a mortgage broker with Wells Fargo.

Trainers Bobby Benton and Aaron Navarro have honed Scott’s skills to near perfection teaching him how to utilize his size to keep opponents at arm’s length until he smashes in the power shots, especially to the body, his favorite punches. A heavyweight that goes to the body, you say? That is why Scott is the whole package. MORE

Gogarty vs. Martin?

http://www.boxing.com/gogarty_vs._martin.html

The 1997 WIBF Champion—Deirdre Gogarty—is training for a comeback fight. Details of her first bout are unconfirmed, but her ultimate goal is a rematch with former champion, Christy Martin. Curious about Gogarty’s fitness, I visit the gym.

It’s 92 degrees in South Louisiana, and the salty smell of sweat permeates the Ragin’ Cajun Boxing Club. Gogarty slips on her boxing boots, then wraps and duct tapes her hands. She stretches and bounces on her toes to radio Hip Hop and R&B, which blares from large speakers that drown out the whir of a mammoth fan.

Two male heavyweights take to the ring and a three-minute bell adds to the soundtrack of fists pounding flesh. Other fighters begin to roll in, and the gym’s energy rises with shouts of “You just lost that round!” and “Pick it up!" MORE

Quotes from Tarver vs. Green Conference

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – May 17 – Yesterday Antonio Tarver and Danny Green had their first press conference at the site of the fight “Judgment Day”, the Sydney Entertainment Center. Both fighters were very respectful to each other, but also very confident about victory. Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster www.ticketmaster.com.au (+1300883622) and are priced at $1000 for VIP Ringside, $750 Platinum Ringside, $500 Gold Ringside, $350 Silver Ringside, $250 Bronze Ringside, $175 VIP, $135 Platinum, $95 Gold, $75 Silver, $55 Bronze. MORE

Jimmy Ellis: A Champion Unsung

By Jim Amato

Author’s note: Upon hearing of Jimmy’s next great battle against Pugilistic Dementia, I would like to re-release this article about him.

It’s too bad that the cruiserweight division was not around in the 60’s and 70’s. Many fine boxers scaled under 190 pounds and gave creditable performances against bigger men. Doug Jones is an example as he came close to upsetting Cassius Clay in 1963. Doug had lost in 1962 to Harold Johnson for the light heavyweight title. In 1965, he lost to Ernie Terrell for WBA Heavyweight crown. Back then there was no middle ground. If you weighed over 175 pounds, you fought heavyweights, period.

Bob Foster, who was one of the greatest light heavyweights of all time, had trouble moving up to heavyweight. Jones, Terrell, and Zora Foley soundly beat him in heavyweight bouts. After winning the light heavyweight crown in 1968, he failed in attempts to beat Joe Frazier and Muhammad Ali. How would he have fared at 190 pounds? MORE

Russell Turning Negatives to Positive Against Fonfara

Canadian light heavyweight Anthony “The Rowdy One” Russell (16-2-1, 5 KOs) isn’t expecting a warm welcome when he steps into the ring this Friday  at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago to face Poland’s Andrzej Fonfara for the NABO title.

Polish fighters in Chicago are like rock stars.

While some might feel intimidated, Russell has an interesting way of looking at the situation. “How’s it going to affect me? The question is how is that going to affect him? That’s pressure is on him. I hope he fights the fan’s fight, because if he does, he’ll make more mistakes. Once that bell rings, there are two guys fighting. I just hope the referee isn’t his uncle.”

Russell, originally from Kitchener, Ontario, but now residing in Brockton, Massachusetts, had 131 amateur fights and was the National Canadian Light-Heavyweight Champion in 2002. He won the Ontario Provincial Championship five times. MORE