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News Flash
September 2010HOLLY HOLM!
Most Menacing Girl On The Planet.
Fresquez Productions, Inc. proudly announces that the prominent women’s boxing website “WBAN” asked boxing fans who they thought were the world-wide top female boxers and their overwhelming answer was: HOLLY HOLM.
Holly’s win by a landslide comes as no surprise since Holm is the pound for pound number one female boxer in the world according to BOXREC and every sanctioning body.
RING Magazine named Holly Holm Female Fighter of the Year for two years in a row. Holly’s accomplishments consist of her accepting the challenge of every top female fighter ever brought to her and being a ten time World Champion.
News Flash
September 2010Teper V Zeller!
Added To Sturm vs. Lorenzo Undercard.
On Saturday night WBA middleweight champion Felix Sturm will give his comeback after 14 months of ring absence by defending his title against Giovanni Lorenzo in Cologne, Germany.
On the undercard ARENA CEO Ahmet Öner will present some of his upcoming German stars such as middleweight Benjamin Simon and super middleweights Dennis Ronert and Mike Keta. German heavyweight amateur standout Erkan Teper (146 amateur fight, 130 wins) will give his pro debut against fellow German veteran Marcel Zeller. „The Highlander“ Zeller has won 22 out of 29 pro-fights and will certainly give Teper a lot to think about in his very first pro appearance. Teper was originally scheduled to fight Pavel Siska (32 fight, 25 losses) from Czech Republic.
„I changed the opponent because I didn’t want Erkan to go the usual way of fighting useless bums in his first 10 or 15 fights“, says promoter Öner.
„Zeller is a decent test for a young fighter without any pro experience. If Erkan can master this challenge I am sure that he will make his way to the top.“
„I am up for that challenge“, says Teper.
„At the amateurs you often don’t know who you’re fighting the day before you actually enter the ring so the change of names doesn’t impress me much. I want to show a good performance and prove Ahmet right in signing me for a long-term contract.“ Teper and ARENA agreed on a five-year deal.
There was also a last-minute change of opponents for middleweight contender Benjamin Simon. After Colombia’s Juan Camilo Novoa (14-5-1) was neglected visa to travel to Germany Öner brought in Russian Magomed Abdurakhmanov (15-4).
Ronert will face Frank Kary Roth from Neuwied, Germany. Keta faces Atilla Kiss from Czech Republic. In his first fight in Germany former Turkish amateur star Murat Öner (1-0) takes on Czech Patrik Hruska.
News Flash
September 2010Results from Rhode Island!
Biosse Decisions King To Remain Unbeaten.
Former University of Rhode Island football player Vladine “Mr. Providence” Biosse overcame the first knockdown of his career to keep his undefeated record intact in tonight’s main event on the “Labor Daze” card, presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc. (CES), at Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, Rhode Island.
In a battle of free-swinging southpaws, Ibaheim “The Almighty” King (7-5) dropped Biosse (8-0) in the fourth round, but Vladine came back to floor a game King twice in the sixth en route to a win by a unanimous 8-round decision.
“I threw a punch – a wild hook – and he checked me with a right,” Biosse said about his first knockdown.
“Give it all to him. He’s a veteran, an Olympic qualifier, who has fought a lot of top guys. He came to fight; well prepared and in shape. The knockdown was a blessing. I learned that I need to be patient from that knockdown. I hurt him and then chased, going for the knockdown, and he caught me off balance. I learned that if the knockdown comes, great, but a victory is what really counts.”
HEAVYWEIGHTS
Jesse Barboza WDEC4 Antonio Robertson
Eric Estrada WTKO1 Tauheed Wheeler
SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Vladine Biosse WDEC8 Ibaheim King
Joe Gardner WDEC6 Eric Pinarreta
LIGHT MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Dustin Reinhold WDEC4 Rameil Shelton
SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS
Jonathan Vazquez WKO1 Shawn Pyles
News Flash
September 2010WEIGHTS FROM RI!
WEIGHTS FROM TWIN RIVER.
Vladine Biosse 168 LBS. vs Ibahiem King 166 LBS.
Joe Gardner 169 LBS. vs Eric Pinaretta 170 LBS.
Eric Estrada 198 LBS. vs Tauheed Wheeler 213 LBS.
Dustin Reinhold 154 LBS. vs Rameil Shelton 153 LBS.
Jesse Barboza 231 LBS. vs Anthony Robertson 216 LBS.
Jonathan Vasquez 42 LBS. vs Shawn Pyles 136 LBS.
VLADINE BIOSSE: “I’m not cocky and don’t like to talk junk. I respect everyman that gets in the ring with me. I’ve trained hard, put it all in for this fight. I thank Ibaheim for coming here to fight. He said this was all about him – it’s my night and at the end of the night it’ll still be my night. You’re going to get the best of Vladine and a great night of boxing.”
IBAHEIM KING: “I don’t have much to say, I’m fighting I the ring. I expect a good fight. I came here to win. This is all about me.”
Tickets: $35.00, $50.00, $75.00 and $125.00, are available to purchase by calling CES (401.724.2253/2254), going online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at Twin River’s Players Club booth at Twin River, or any TicketMaster location. Ticket-buyers who purchase a VIP seat will also receive a 25%-off coupon for Fred & Steve's Steakhouse, valid for 30 days following the fight.
Information: Contact CES (401.724.2253/2254/www.cesboxing.com) or the Twin River Event Center (877.82.RIVER/ www.twinriver.com) for more information. Doors open at 6:00PM/ET, first bout at 7:00 PM/ET.
(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Labor Daze.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied at all times by an adult and they must enter through the West entrance.)
News Flash
September 2010VIVA MEXICO AT LAS VEGAS!
SEPTEMBER 15TH LAS VEGAS HILTON FIGHT CARD FEATURES TWO WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOUTS.
It’s the biggest celebration in the history of Mexico, and on Wednesday, September 15th, at the Las Vegas Hilton, the Mexican Bicentennial will bear witness to some fistic fireworks, as Roy Englebrecht Promotions, in association with Promociones del Pueblo and Corona Extra, presents a world championship doubleheader in The Theater at the Las Vegas Hilton that will air live to all of Mexico and Latin America via Televisa, as well as on Pay Per View in the United States
The world championship will be distributed by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 10 PM/ET – 10 PM/ET, 7 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view for a suggested retail price of only $24.95.
In the main event, scheduled for 12 rounds, the IBO featherweight title is on the line when Australia’s Jackson Asiku defends his belt against Mexican star and former world champion Jhonny Gonzalez, and in the co-featured bout of the evening, also scheduled for 12 rounds, Mexico City’s Juan Carlos Salgado squares off against Michigan’s Tyrone Harris for the vacant IBO super featherweight crown.
But that’s not all, as this action-packed six bout card also features a 10 round IBO junior super featherweight title bout that pits Ciudad Juarez’s Miguel Roman (30-7-22Kos) who has agreed to fight Las Vegas top prospect Lonnie Smith (11-2-8Kos).
For tickets, priced from $25 to $75, please visit the Las Vegas Hilton Box Office, or www.vegas.com. Doors open at 6:00pm and the first bell rings at 6:30pm PST. The Televisa and PPV broadcast begins at 7:00pm.
A native of Uganda, “Action” Jackson Asiku (26-3, 14 KOs) has soared to the top of the boxing world thanks to an exciting style and an unyielding will to win. A 2000 Olympian for Uganda, Asiku liked Australia so much that he made it his new home, and he hasn’t looked back yet. Winner of 15 straight fights, Asiku won the IBO title last November with an eighth round knockout of Heriberto Ruiz, and he’s looking to score another big win on September 15th.
The pride of Mexico City, 28-year old Jhonny Gonzalez (45-7, 39 KOs) has won a place in the heart of all fight fans with his knockout power, and nearly five years after winning the WBO bantamweight title, he looks to be better than ever. A devastating puncher with both hands, Gonzalez has won five in a row, all by knockout, with only one opponent making it past the second round. With his country behind him, Gonzalez is eager to add another title belt to his trophy case.
25-year old Mexico City native Juan Carlos Salgado (22-1-1, 16 KOs) quietly plied his trade for the first six years of his career, building an impressive record along the way. But when he destroyed 27-0 Jorge Linares in just 73 seconds for the WBA super featherweight crown, the entire world knew who he was. Salgado would lose the belt in a hard-fought 12 rounder against Takashi Uchiyama in January, but after bouncing back with a TKO of Guadalupe Rosales in June, he’s ready for another title shot.
Former world title challenger Tyrone “Fist of Fury” Harris (24-6-16KOS) out of Lansing, Michigan gave Stevie Johnston all he could handle, losing a majority decision for the IBA World Lightweight Title, and now he want this IBO belt. 29 year old Harris has a big win over 30-5 Damian Fuller for the USBA Lightweight title, so you can be sure that with these two sluggers already knocking out 32 opponents a war is brewing at the Hilton on September 15th, so who will be up for the challenge.
In televised undercard action, former Miami Hurricanes football star Quadtrine Hill (1-0, 1 KOs) looks for his second pro win in a heavyweight four rounder against Oakland’s 3-4 Yohan Banks.
Plus, Las Vegas lightweight Renell Griffin (6-2, 2 KOs) takes on Khadaphi Proctor (5-5) of Hesperia, California, in a four rounder.
Tickets priced at $25, $40, and $75 are available at the Las Vegas Hilton Box Office 9am – 7pm daily, and at www.lvhilton.com and www.vegas.com.
Doors open at 6pm on September 15th, with first undercard bout set for 6:30pm.
News Flash
September 2010Purdy’s Back!
Ready For The Challenge.
Lee “Lights out” Purdy returns to the ring on the undercard of the exciting “Night of International Boxing” at York Hall, Bethnal Green on Friday 10th September. This will be Lee’s first time back in the ring since his gripping 12 round unanimous point’s decision loss for the Commonwealth title against Denton Vassell in April.
The co – feature fights involving two of the UK and Ireland’s finest boxers, John O’Donnell who is taking on Olympic Bronze Medalist American Terrence Cauthen over 12 rounds and Tyson Fury who will be fighting over 8 rounds, both bouts will be televised in America on SHOWTIME® at 11p.m. ET/PT (same day delay). The event will also be shown in Canada on the Super Channel Network and the UK Broadcaster will be announced soon.
The Colchester based welterweight is currently the Southern Area Champion but believes after his heroic performance back in April more title challenges are on the horizon.
Purdy said. “I’m back in the swing of things after the disappointment of losing in April. Training has gone well, I’ve had some great sparring and now I just can’t wait to get back in the ring. We are keeping busy with this fight and hopefully by the end of the year I will be in a position to challenge for either a Commonwealth or British title.”
Along with Lee Purdy, Prizefighter semi-finalist Daniel Cadman from Waltham Abbey will be out looking for the win on his quest to fight for titles, Phill “Intense” Fury will be out to record his 6th straight victory and the highly popular Light Welterweight Chris “the flash” Evangelou from Enfield will entertain the packed crowd and look to extend his unbeaten record on the undercard of the exciting “Night of International Boxing” at York Hall
Debutants John “Gorilla” Ryder (Middleweight) of Islington and Tyler Goodjohn will both be making the crossover to the paid ranks for the first time.
Tickets for this great night of international boxing are ON SALE NOW and can be purchased from the Ticketline Box Office on 0844 888 4402 or via www.hennessysports.com. Tickets are £35 for unreserved seats and £60 for Ringside.
News Flash
September 2010LOCK N LOADED 3!
SEPTEMBER 17TH.
Boxing fans of the Inland Empire will be treated to a
crossroads main event featuring two of the region's top 140-pound prospects on Friday, September 17 when Thompson Boxing Promotions in association with Fox Sports en Español and sponsored by Lucas Oil, presents a six-bout card billed as "LOCK 'N LOADED III" at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, California.
Jose "El Niño" Reynoso (12-3-1, 1 KO) will face his toughest nemesis Hector "Teco"Serrano (13-0, 5 KOs) who will put his undefeated record on the line in the scheduled 10-round headliner for the vacant WBC Latino Light Welterweight Title.
The 25-year old Reynoso sustained a pair of consecutive losses early in his career, but has seen his stock rise in his last 10 bouts which have featured eight wins and a draw against opposition all entering the ring with winning records. His only loss during that period came at the hands of Dean Byrne (now 13-0) by decision in May 2009.
He is coming off a pair of epic bouts against then-undefeated Aris Ambriz - a draw back in January followed by a victory by majority decision in the April rematch at the Doubletree in Ontario.
Serrano, also age 25, is fresh off a fourth-round stoppage of Angel Hernandez in a main event held in Seattle back in June. It was a most impressive showing by Serrano, who was fighting outside of southern California for the first time as a pro. It was the second straight knockout win for Serrano, who previously dispatched Francisco Zepeda inside of two rounds back in March.
Tickets for "LOCK 'N LOADED III", priced at $75, $45, and $30, are available now and may be purchased by calling 714-935-0900.
The undercard will feature a clash of undefeated California super bantamweights, with Carson's Efrain Esquivias (9-0, 5 KOs) taking on Ephraim Martinez (4-0, 1
KO), of Salinas in a scheduled six-rounder.
Two other bouts slated for six rounds of action will pit once-beaten Artemio "King" Reyes (6-1, 5 KOs) of Riverside versus Portland, OR veteran Michael Lucero (12-16-2, 4 KOs) in a welterweight confrontation, and Jose Roman (7-0, 6 KOs), from Garden Grove, CA opposing Jesus Garnica (3-0-1, 3 KOs), from Tucson, AZ in a duel of undefeated lightweights.
Opening the September 17 show will be a pair of scheduled four-rounders featuring young pros just kicking off their careers. In the evening's first bout, Indio, CA bantamweight Diego Madrigal will debut against an opponent to be named.
That will be followed by a light welterweight contest with Jhon Ortega (1-0, 1 KO) of Londonderry, NH, going up against German Bacho (0-1), from Santa Rosa, CA.
Bouts are subject to change. Doors open at 6:30pm, and the first bell rings at 7:45pm. The Doubletree Hotel is located at 222 North Vineyard Avenue in Ontario. The hotel
phone number is 909-937-0900.
"Lock 'N Loaded III" will be taped for broadcast by Fox Sports en Español at a later date to be announced.
News Flash
September 2010Morales V Limond!
Limond Trying To Upset Hero Morales On Mexican Fiesta PPV Show.
Scotsman Willie “Hands of Steel” Limond, WBU Lightweight Champion, will be a plaid matador to Mexican bull -- 5-time world champion in three different weight classes, Erik “Terrible” Morales -- in their September 11 showdown that headlines the “Mexican Fiesta” Pay-Per-View show live from Mexico City.
“”I know this is going to be a hard fight,” Limond said, “but I’m hoping to take the bull by the horns and put on a great performance for the fans in Mexico, USA and my Scottish fans back home.”
Limond (33-2, 8 KOs) will be fighting for the first time outside of the United Kingdom against living legend Morales (49-6, 34 KOs), rated No. 2 by the World Boxing Council, in an outdoor bull ring, Plazo de Toros, which is being set-up to seat 54,000 for “Mexican Fiesta.” Morales, who is the last to defeat the great Manny Pacquiao, will be shooting for his 50th career win in the 12-round main event.
“Fighting Morales anywhere is a hard fight but to fight him on Mexican Independence Day makes it even harder,” Limond noted.
“The man is one of my heroes. It will be an honor to share the ring with him and I’m hoping I can spoil the party.
“He has tons of experience, more knockouts than I have fights, and he is still a very dangerous fighter. If I were to win this fight it would be the highlight of my career and I think it could open major doors for big fights.”
“Mexican Fiesta,” presented by Grupo Empresarial Matiz, is being distributed in the United States by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9 PM/ET – 6 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view for a suggested retail price of only $29.95.
Limond nearly had his breakthrough fight in 2007, when he floored Olympic silver medallist Amir Khan, but Willie was unable to continue the fight after eight rounds, in which Khan took Limond’s British Empire belt. Limond has won his last five fights since losing to Khan.
“I have quite a fan-base in Scotland,” he added, “so a victory would be a massive thing for the Scots. I think it would go down in Scottish history as a great win for a Scottish fighter.”
Former WBC Light Flyweight Champion Edgar Sosa (39-6, 23 KOs) challenges WBC International Flyweight Champion Ryan Bito (18-6-3, 6 KOs), representing the Philapines, in the 12-round co-feature on the “Mexican Fiesta” PPV card.
In a female super flyweight battle of champions, WBC titlist Ann Marie “La Guerrera” Torres (21-3-2, 13 KOs), of Mexico, defends her belt against WIBF and GBU champion Alesia “The Tigress” Graf (25-1, 9 KOs), of Germany, in a 10-round title bout.
Other exciting bouts will be shown, pending time availability, on the “Mexican Fiesta” PPV show.
For more information about the Morales-Limond PPV event go to www.integratedsportsnet.com.
News Flash
September 2010The Boxing 360 Series!
To Be Launched In New York City.
“The Boxing 360 Series,” presented by Bob Duffy’s Ring Promotions and sponsored by Boxing 360, will include three New York City-based shows in 2010, starting September 24 at Plattduetsche Park Restaurant in Franklin Square. Other series dates are tentatively set for November 4 and December 10.
“We want to keep the fighters in our stable busy and take the company to the next level,” Boxing 360 Director of Boxing Bob Duffy explained.
“We’re committed to fighters we’ve signed and are looking to sign more talent. There are a lot of talented boxers in New York City but not enough shows. Not all of the fighters on our shows will be with Boxing 360. We’re open to working with other promoters to keep fighters fighting.”
The inaugural series show will be headlined by undefeated Boxing 360 super middleweight Lennox “2 Sharpe” Allen (12-0-1, 7 KOs), the Guyanese champion now living in Brooklyn. Allen will be fighting Nick Brinson (7-0-1, 5 KOs), of Geneva (NY), in the 8-round main event for the vacant New York State title.
Unbeaten N.Y. State Light Heavyweight Champion Ronson Frank (15-0, 7 KOs), fighting out of Rosedale (NY) by way of Guyana, takes on Tony Ferrante (9-1, 4 KOs), of N. Philadelphia, in the 8-round co-feature. Ronson is the younger brother of former world NBA super middleweight champion, Steven Frank, and former world title challenger, Raul Frank.
“Ronson is a perfect example of what we’re trying to do with other promoters,” Duffy noted.
“He is promoted by O’Shea Brothers Promotions and Brian O’Shea is a good friend. We’re very happy that he has placed Ronson on this card and we hope to partner with other promoters for our series.”
Also scheduled to fight on the card is unbeaten Harlem light middleweight -- by way of Burkina Faso -- Issouf Kinda (8-0, 5 KOs) vs. TBA in an 6/8-round bout; popular Plainview (NY) welterweight Tommy “The Razor” Rainone (13-4, 4 KOs) vs. TBA in a 6/8-round match; Providence cruiserweight Joshua Harris (6-3-1, 5 KOs) vs. Kamareh Pasley (5-4, 2 KOs) in a 6-rounder; former New York Golden Gloves and Empire State amateur champion, undefeated Brooklyn featherweight Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano (6-0-1, 3 KOs) vs. former Dominican Republic super flyweight titlist Liliana Martinez (8-11-2, 4 KOs) in another 6-round fight. Georgia junior welterweight Arthur Bridges (1-0, 1 KO) will be in action against an opponent to be determined in a 4-round bout. All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets, priced at $175.00 (includes cocktails and dinner party), $75.00 (ringside) and $50.00 (general admission), are available by calling 516.313.2304 or Plattduetsche Park Restaurant, or at Boxing 360 (183 Bleeker St.).
Doors open at 7:00 PM/ET, first bout at 7:45 PM. For more information got to www.Boxing360.com.
News Flash
September 2010GOOSSEN SIGNS RUIZ JR.!
Signs Undefeated Bantamweight Michael Ruiz, Jr.
He's undefeated, hungry, and a young professional
athlete with talent and today Fresno native bantamweight prospect Michael Ruiz, Jr. signed with Goossen Tutor Promotions. Ruiz (5-0, 2 KOs), who made his pro-debut on a Goossen Tutor fight card at Tachi Palace Hotel and Casino earlier this year, has an impressive amateur background most recently having earned a Silver medal in the 2009 National Golden Gloves and a Bronze medal in the U.S. Mens Open National Championship.
"I have laid a solid foundation for my professional career by putting in my time as an amateur and have made the transition into a pro fighter. Now that I made that move I felt it was necessary to take the next step by signing with a top promotional company. I believe as dedicated as I am to my career and with Dan Goossen's "know how" they will lead me to title contention. I know it's early in my professional career but anybody who is successful has a goal from the get-go and that is my goal."
Added Dan Goossen, "I've seen Michael fight and I like his style. He's a promising young fighter willing to fight his way to the top with an aggressive, entertaining style."
Ruiz is scheduled to fight at Tachi Palace in Lemoore, a few short miles from his hometown of Fresno on Oct. 7.
News Flash
August 2010STURM V LORENZO!
GIOVANNI LORENZO ON FIRE IN GERMANY AHEAD OF TITLE FIGHT WITH FELIX STURM THIS SATURDAY NIGHT.
Middleweight contender Giovanni Lorenzo captured the interest of the sports media, fans and champion Felix Sturm on Monday afternoon in Cologne, Germany, by appearing at the final press conference wearing the jersey of local underdog soccer team, Borussia Mönchengladbach.
Lorenzo and Sturm will battle this Saturday night, September 4th at the Lanxess-Arena in Cologne for Sturm’s WBA Middleweight Title.
On Sunday afternoon, Lorenzo had watched as Gladbach defeated arch rival Bayer Leverkusen by a score of 6-3 in a major upset on Leverkusen’s home field.
Said Lorenzo, “I am all fired up and inspired by the Gladbach soccer team, they are an amazing example of an underdog who never stopped believing in themselves. That’s the same spirit that I feel inside of me. For now, I accept that this is the Felix Sturm show, and it is without question a tremendous show, we got Michael Buffer, Linkin Park, I even heard that Sturm is getting dropped into the ring by some circus contraption, that is all going to be a treat for the fans, but once the bell rings this is going to be the Giovanni "GladBach" Lorenzo show.
As for Lukas Podolski since he is so good at carrying things (everything but his Cologne team) he can carry my new WBA belt out of the ring for me and all the Gladbach soccer fans that inspired me. I love Germany; these are the greatest fans in the world."
Speaking about Sturm at the press conference, Lorenzo stated, “I know I got this, Sturm couldn't even look me in the eye at the press conference, just look at the press photos and you can see he was looking down. He is not mentally fit for this battle, He looks weak. I can see he was more focused on planning this mega fight to feed his ego by hanging larger than life posters of him all around Germany. These 500 feet high posters tell me he is insecure.”
“Sturm is going to learn that doing your first promotion at the same time you are trying to make comeback after a 14 month lay-off where he admittedly blew up to 90 kilos (200lbs) is a huge mistake. He would have been better off leaving the promotion for someone else and just focused on what he does best. In his condition I would be surprised if he lasted 6 minutes, let alone 6 rounds but I will take it anyway it comes. I prepared for 15 hard rounds".
The 29 year old Lorenzo, 29-2-1 (21KO’s), previously traveled to Germany in September 2009, challenging Sebastian Sylvester for the IBF Middleweight Title, losing a very close, controversial, split decision.
Sturm, 33-2-1 (14KO’s), won the WBA title from Javier Castillejo in April 2007 and has defended it seven times, most recently winning a unanimous decision over Khoren Gevor on July 11, 2009 by unanimous decision.
A native of the Dominican Republic, Lorenzo is promoted by TKO Boxing Promotions and managed by Kurt Emhoff and Rich Ryan.
News Flash
August 2010Oliveira Returns!
CES Show Oct. 2 At Foxwoods Resort Casino.
Former world title challenger “Sucra” Ray Oliveira returns to the ring October 2nd for the first time in more than five years against world rated light heavyweight Joey “KO Kid” Spina, headlining the “Last Man Standing” card, in Fox Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut.
“Last Man Standing” is being presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc. (CES), in association with Foxwoods Resort Casino.
“We’re excited to have Ray Oliveira’s comeback start on our ‘Last Man Standing’ show,” CES president Jimmy Burchfield said.
“All of us are very happy to be back at Foxwoods, too. Ray was one of the most exciting fighters in the world, setting records on ESPN for most punches thrown. He is a fighter’s fighter who didn’t want to return against a soft opponent for an easy win. Ray wants to be tested and he will be against Joey Spina, one of the hardest hitting punchers, pound-for-pound, in boxing. It’s a crossroads fight for both of them. What’s Ray got left? That’s the key question. He fought most of his career at 140-147 and this fight is at 175. Spina was getting close to a world title shot but fighting to a draw last October hurt him. He could use a win against a name opponent like Ray to push him higher up in the world ratings.”
Oliveira, 42, has always been an action-fighter and is also a 3-time world title challenger. The slick boxer and defensive genius from New Bedford (MA) is a former IBU welterweight, NABF light welterweight and New England lightweight champion. “Sucra” has defeated Vince Phillips, Saul Duran, Vivian Harris, Charles Murray (twice), and Tracy Spann, among the more notables, and also fought world champions Ricky Hatton, Vernon Forrest, Jake Rodriguez and Zack Padilla.
Spina returns to the scene of his greatest triumph, which occurred back in 2006 at Foxwoods when “KO Kid” stopped Jesse Brinkley with a vicious body shot in the 11th round of a fight Spina trailed. Brinkley challenges IBF super middleweight champion Lucian Bute for the world title October 15. Spina, who is coming off of a 10-round draw last October against former world champion Lou Del Valle, also holds wins against former world champion Carl Daniels, Jay Pina and Anwar Oshana
In an intriguing match-up of promising prospects, David Bauza (5-0, 3 KOs), of Hartford, and Reynaldo Rodriguez (5-1, 2 KOs), fighting out of Woonsocket (RI), battle for the vacant EBA New England Super Middleweight Championship in the 6-round co-feature.
“Ray and Joey aren’t the only fighters on this stacked card who find themselves at the crossroads, “Burchfield noted.
“Billy Moffard hasn’t been in the ring for a long time. We also have some of the best young fighters in New England and two – David Bauza and Renyaldo Rodriguez -- are in against each other.”
Hometown favorite Karen Dulin (1-6, 0 KOs), a super bantamweight from nearby Mystic, meets Treasure Saunders (0-4-1) in a 4-round match. Also scheduled to fight against opponents to be announced are Hartford super lightweight Joseph “Chipper” Jones (4-0, 1 KO), Stamford (CT) light heavyweight Ahmad Mickens (1-0), Hartford welterweight Addy Irizarry (8-4, 2 KOs), Randolph (MA) heavyweight Billy “The Kid” Mofford, and New Haven super lightweight Edwin Soto (4-0-1, 2 KOs). All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets, priced at $40.00, $60.00 and $100.00, are available to purchase by calling CES (401.724.2253/2254) or Foxwoods (800-200-2882), going online at www.cesboxing.com or www.foxwoods.com, or in person at Foxwood’s box office.
For more information contact CES (401.724.2253/2254/www.cesboxing.com) or Foxwoods Resort Casino (www.foxwoods.com). Doors open at 6:00 PM/ET, first bout at 7:00 PM/ET.
News Flash
August 2010Cadman Has Something To Prove!
Daniel Cadman Out To Show He Is Ready For Title Challenge.
Waltham Abbey’s Daniel Cadman will make his return to the ring two months after his impressive display in the Prizefighter series, on the undercard of the exciting “Night of International Boxing” at York Hall, Bethnal Green on Friday 10th September.
The co – feature fights involving two of the UK and Ireland’s finest boxers, John O’Donnell who is taking on Olympic Bronze Medalist American Terrence Cauthen over 12 rounds and Tyson Fury who will be fighting over 10 rounds, both bouts will be televised in America on SHOWTIME® at 11p.m. ET/PT (same day delay). The event will also be shown in Canada on the Super Channel Network and the UK Broadcaster will be announced soon.
The Prizefighter semi-finalist who has spent the last week in Belfast sparring WBA ranked number 1 challenger and current European Super Middleweight Champion Brian Magee told Hennessy Sports, “I only got the call from Tony (Sims) my trainer last Tuesday telling me that I am fighting at York Hall, now I can’t wait, I’m still buzzing from my prizefighter encounter in June and I believe that night I showed people what I’m capable of.
“I might have lost to the eventual winner but I gave him his hardest fight of the night.” Added Cadman.
The Super Middleweight reckons spending time in Belfast will give him the extra confidence and experience he needs to put in him a position to start to challenge for honours.
“Sharing the ring with the WBA World ranked number 1 for the last week has been excellent, it really makes you up your own game and gives you the extra confidence you need to challenge for titles, and to add to that before I came out here I was sparring another world class boxer European Champion Darren Barker. You can’t wish for anymore experience before a fight, both guys are a different class.”Said Daniel.
Promoter Mick Hennessy said, “Daniel showed on the night how exciting he can be, he came so close to stopping Mendes, I believe he would of beaten him and gone on to be crowned Prizefighter champion if he was not so eager to knock him out. He certainly has the potential to win titles”
Cadman will be joined by Colchester’s Lee “Lights Out” Purdy who will be looking to defend his Southern Area Welterweight title (*subject to board approval), Phill “Intense” Fury will be out to record his 6th straight victory and the highly popular Light Welterweight Chris “the flash” Evangelou from Enfield will entertain the packed crowd and look to extend his unbeaten record on the undercard of the exciting “Night of International Boxing” at York Hall
Debutants John “Gorilla” Ryder (Middleweight) of Islington and Tyler Goodjohn will both be making the crossover to the paid ranks for the first time.
Tickets for this great night of international boxing are ON SALE NOW and can be purchased from the Ticketline Box Office on 0844 888 4402 or via www.hennessysports.com. Tickets are £35 for unreserved seats and £60 for Ringside.
News Flash
August 2010Shumenov's Goal To Unify!
WBA/IBA Light Heavyweight World Champ On Fast Track To Boxing Stardom.
WBA and IBA Light Heavyweight World Champion Beibut Shumenov took the fast track to become world champion, establishing a weight-class record along the way, and now he wants to accelerate his road to stardom.
Shumenov is set on a mission to unify the titles starting with his next bout, hopefully before the year is out.
“I want a unification fight next,” Shumenov said.
“I’m ready to fight any of the other champions now. (Jean) Pascal and (Tavoris) Cloud are both good champions and I’d love to fight either one. Throw in world champion Jurgen Brahmer, too. My goal is to unify the titles. I have a lot of respect for all of the other champions but I want their titles.”
“It’s unheard of, a fighter that wants one challenge after another so early in their career,” said Dan Goossen of Goossen Tutor Promotions.
“But this is what boxing needs, the most competitive and biggest fights that can be made. The networks should ONLY be looking at these young champions to be facing off with one another. Beibut wants to give the fans want they want to see.”
Shumenov (10-1, 6 KOs), born in Kazakhstan and now living in Las Vegas, wasn’t looking to pad his record from the day he turned pro 2 ½ years ago, after he represented Kazakhstan in the 2004 Olympics.
In his third pro fight, he took on 70-fight veteran Shannon Miller, who was put to sleep in the fourth round of their fight in Memphis, followed only three weeks later in Kazakhstan by a second-round knockout of former WBC Continental Americas champion Donnell Wiggins (24-10-4) for the WBC Asian Boxing Council and Interim PABA light heavyweight belts.
Next up for Shumenov were successful title defenses of the aforementioned crowns, in addition to capturing the vacant WBO Asia Pacific belt against Lavell Finger (26-2) who didn’t make it out of the opening round. Fighting at home for the third straight fight, Shumenov stepped-up to face his stiffest test, former WBC and WBA light heavyweight champion, Montell Griffin (49-7), who sported wins against world champions James Toney (twice) and Roy Jones, Jr. Shumenov pitched a complete, 12-round shutout, winning the unanimous decision by scores of 120-108, 120-108, 120-107.
Back in the U.S., Shumenov squared-off against world title challenger Epifanio Mendoza (28-6-1), who had lost to Chad Dawson in their 2007 world title fight and a year later by a controversial decision to former world champion Jeff Lacy. Beibut defeated Mendoza in Bellevue, Washington by 10-round unanimous decision (100-90, 98-92, 97-93).
From that point on it’s been all world championship fights for Shumenov, who captured the IBA crown last year in Kazakhstan, stopping 2-time world super middleweight champion Byron Mitchell (27-4-1) in the fourth round. In his ninth pro fight, Shumenov unsuccessfully challenged WBA titlist Gabriel Campillo in Kazakhstan, losing a hotly contested, questionable 12-round majority decision.
Beibut bounced back strong in another back-and-forth rematch this past January, winning a 12-round decision against Campillo for the WBA belt in only his 10th pro fight. Shumenov shattered the previous world record for fewest professional fights to capture a major World light heavyweight title, 15, set by Jeff “Hit Man” Harding in 1989.
In his first WBA title defense (July 23) on ESPN Friday Night Fights, Shumenov showed the valuable lessons learned from the prior two Campillo bouts, to totally dominate mandatory challenger and previously unbeaten Vyacheslav Uzelkov (22-0, 13 KOs), displaying speed, aggressiveness and fearlessness right through the closing seconds en route to an overwhelming unanimous decision (118-108, 118-108, 117-109).
His impressive fight against the Ukrainian was only his second with head trainer, Kevin Barry, and first fighting for Goossen Tutor Promotions. The classy Kazakh showed tremendous ability and fought his way side-by-side with the other 175-pound champions.
“I have the best trainer in the world, Kevin, and I was 100-percent dedicated to training and completely focused on Uzelkov alone because I signed with Goossen Tutor,” Beibut explained.
Shumenov joined featherweight Aratoly Alexandrov, heavyweight, Oleg “Big O’ Maskaev and cruiserweight Vassily “The Tiger” Jirov as the only Kazakh-born professional world boxing champions.
On the fast track outside of the ring, too, Beibut has a law degree, speaks five languages (Russian, Kazakh, English, Turkish and Uzbek), and along with his brother, Chingis, own a full-service boxing promotional company based in Las Vegas, NV. KZ Event Productions fighters include unbeaten, WBA #9-rated light heavyweight Gayrat Ahmedov (15-0-1, 10 KOs) and undefeated welterweight, WBA #14 Ravshan Hudaynazrov.
News Flash
August 2010Morales Returns!
Sept. 11 In Mexico City Bull Ring.
Five-time world champion in three different weight classes, Erik “Terrible” Morales, continues his heralded comeback September 11 headlining the “Mexican Fiesta” pay-per-view show live from Mexico City.
Morales (49-6, 34 KOs), rated No. 2 by the World Boxing Council, will also continue a tradition by fighting outdoors in the famous Plaza de Toros bull ring against WBU champion Willie “Hands of Steel” Limond (33-2, 8 KOs) for the vacant WBC Diamond Super Lightweight Championship.
“Mexican Fiesta,” presented by Grupo Empresarial Matiz, is being distributed in the United States by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9 PM/ET – 6 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view for a suggested retail price of only $29.95.
Morales, who is the last to defeat the great Manny Pacquiao, goes for his 50th career win in the 12-round main event on “Mexican Fiesta” against Limond, of Scotland, in the eighth recorded professional boxing match at Plaza de Toros, which will be set-up to seat 54,000 for “Mexican Fiesta.”
French heavyweight champion Arthur Craven knocked out Jim “Black Diamond” Smith in the first Mexico City bull ring fight nearly 100 years ago, on September 15, 1918. Mick Moran won a pair of bouts there in 1947 and 1948, while International Hall of Famer Raul “Raton” Macias stopped Leo Espinosa in the 10th round of their March 25, 1956 for the NBA World bantamweight title.
In 1989, Jorge “El Maromero” Paez retained his IBF featherweight title via a second-round knockout there of Jose Mario Lopez, and 5-time world featherweight titlist Manuel “Mantecas” Medina put Jose Vegas to sleep in the seventh round on the same card.
The most significant night of boxing at the Plaza de Toros in Mexico City was May 3, 1998, when future Hall of Famer Julio Cesar “J.C.” Chavez and Miguel Angel “Santa Tokyo” Gonzalez fought to a 12-round draw for the WBC lightweight belt. In another key match-up, 47-0 Ricardo “Finito” Lopez – another future Hall of Famer – and 24-0 Nicaraguan Rosendo Alvarez fought to an 8-round technical draw for the WBC & WBA minimumweight crowns. It marked the only blemish on Lopez’ eventual 51-0-1 (38 KOs) career record.
The last show held in the Mexico City bull ring was in 2004 as Chavez won a 10-round decision against former world champion Frankie “The Surgeon” Randall. Also on the same card, Marco Antonio “El Veneno” Rubio defeated Fitz Vanderpool in the opening round for the WBC International light middleweight title and in his eighth pro fight, Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. – son of the aforementioned legend – knocked out Antonio Aquilar in the first round.
On Sept. 11, Morales joins Chavez, Lopez, Macias and Paez as bonafide Mexican boxing icons to have fought in the renowned Mexico City bull ring.
Former WBC Light Flyweight Champion Edgar Sosa (39-6, 23 KOs) meets European flyweight titlist Andrea Sarritzu (34-4-4, 12 KOs), of Italy, in the 12-round co-feature for the WBC International Flyweight Championship on the “Mexican Fiesta” PPV card.
In a female super flyweight battle of champions, WBC titlist Ann Marie “La Guerrera” Torres (21-3-2, 13 KOs), of Mexico, faces WIBF and GBU champion Alesia “The Tigress” Graf (25-1, 9 KOs), of Germany, in a 10-round title bout for the WBC World Cup Super Flyweight Championship.
A pair of 25-year-olds from Mexico City, WBC CABOFE lightweight champ Daniel “Tremendo” Estrada (23-1-1, 19 KOs) and WBC Continental Americas title-holder Rey Sanchez, square-off in a 12-round match for the WBC Silver Lightweight Championship.
WBC Youth Lightweight champion Ramon “Nino de Oro” Ayala (18-1-1, 8 KOs), a 21-year-old Mexico protégé of another Mexican fighting icon, Marco Antonio Barrera, defends his crown against Panamanian gatekeeper Armando “El Policia” Cordova, former NABA super featherweight champion, in a 10-rounder.
For more information about the Morales-Limond PPV event go to www.integratedsportsnet.com.
News Flash
August 2010Hyde Signs Heffron!
Manager Gary Hyde Signs British Amateur Mark Heffron.
Noted worldwide boxing manager Gary Hyde today announced the signing of British amateur standout Mark Heffron to an exclusive contract. Hyde also manages 2-time Olympic gold medalist Guillermo Rigondeaux and European super middleweight champion Lolenga Mock.
“I’m excited to sign Mark Heffron,” the Cork, Ireland-based Hyde said.
“Freddie Roach told me this kid’s a huge talent and he advised me to sign him. Our plan is to keep him busy, starting with his pro debut September 5th in Wolverhampton, England and then, hopefully, five more fights before this year is out.”
The 18-year-old Heffron fights out of Manchester, England. He captured a gold medal at the Junior ABA Championships and silver at the European Youth Championships. “With Gary Hyde as my manager,” Heffron remarked, “the sky’s the limit.
Through Gary’s connections, I’ve already met Freddie Roach and trained with some of his fighters at the Wild Card Gym. I can’t wait to make my pro debut September 5th.”
Heffron, who is trained by Joe Gallagher, finds himself in good company with Hyde’s other fighters, Rigondeaux and Mock. “Rigo” (6-0, 5 KOs), touted as the hottest prospect in the world, is the No. 8 rated super bantamweight by the World Boxing Association, despite having only six pro fights. Mock has defeated world champion Charles Brewer, floored reigning WBA heavyweight titlist David Haye, and extended world champions Lucian Bute, Mario Veit and Gabriel Campillo the full distance in their fights.
News Flash
August 2010REMILLARD CALLS OUT BURGOS!
WBC MANDATORY POSITION.
Undefeated featherweight Matt “The Sharp Shooter” Remillard is ready for his next fight and has his long range scope set on Juan Carlos Burgos, the World Boxing Council’s #1 rated featherweight.
“I’m ready to fight him tomorrow. Burgos is similar to me, we’re both young, all-action fighters and the WBC has mandated that he fight the highest rated available contender. I’m looking at the rankings and numbers 2 through 6 all have fights scheduled” said the Hartford, Connecticut native Remillard.
Remillard, 22-0-0 with thirteen knockouts, is coming off a devastating fourth round stoppage of veteran Carlos Rivera on May 22nd at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, CT.
Fighting out of Tijuana, Mexico, Burgos has compiled a record of 25-0-0 (18KO’s) since turning professional in December 2004. Like Remillard, Burgos is only 22 years old.
Continued Remillard, ‘This is a true fan’s fight. I’ve seen Burgos fight and he’s very aggressive, similar to me. It would be a tremendous fight from the opening bell between two of the best young featherweights in the world, and we’re both undefeated.”
“I’m proud to be ranked # 7 by the WBC, but I want to fight for a world title and facing off against Burgos is the path for me.”
Remillard is promoted by TKO Boxing Promotions.
News Flash
August 2010MIKE LEE RETURNS!
SEPTEMBER 11TH IN LAS VEGAS.
Notre Dame Boxing Champion Mike Lee will make his return to action on Saturday, September 11th against Las Vegas native Alex Rivera in a scheduled four round light heavyweight bout in The Pearl Theatre at The Palms Casino and Resort in Las Vegas.
The Lee/Rivera bout is a feature attraction to the HBO broadcast of “The Battle of Champions” featuring the World Featherweight Championship bout between Cuba’s Yuriorkis Gamboa and Mexican veteran Orlando Salido.
The 23 year old Lee made his pro debut in sparkling fashion on May 29th before a large and enthusiastic hometown crowd at Chicago’s UIC Pavilion, winning a four round shutout unanimous decision over Emmit Woods. The bout was broadcast internationally on Fox Sports Net’s, “Top Rank Live” boxing series.
Among those impressed by his pro debut and looking forward to his Las Vegas bout is longtime Top Rank Inc. matchmaker and recent International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee Bruce Trampler.
“Mike Lee is one of those kids who make you proud to be in boxing. A very bright, personable young man outside the ring, and a real fighter inside the ropes. His presence in the pro ranks enhances the sport.”
After graduating from Notre Dame with a finance degree and winning the 2009 Chicago Golden Gloves, Lee decided to turn professional and headed to Houston to train under the tutelage of highly regarded trainer Ronnie Shields.
Shortly after the sensational performance in his pro debut, Lee returned to Houston to train for the Rivera bout. The 29 year old Rivera brings a record of 2-2-0 (2KO’s) into battle.
Said Shields about Lee’s trainng and upcoming bout; “This is a terrific test for Mike. Rivera is a southpaw but Mike has been terrific sparring with southpaws recently and has adjusted very well.”
“For a young fighter it’s important to adapt to different styles and Mike has done very well in the learning process. He’s very anxious to get back in the ring.”
“Mike is a hard worker and a great learner; he wants to be a champion and realizes there are no shortcuts.”
Lee is a Wheaton, Illinois native and a graduate of Benet Academy.
Over a hundred supporters from the Chicagoland area are scheduled to make the trek to Las Vegas for the bout on September 11th.
The Palms Casino and Resort is located at 4321 W. Flamingo Road in Las Vegas. Tickets for “The Battle of Champions” may be purchased by calling 877-530-4269 during business hours or after 5pm at 630-400-6380. The first bell is scheduled for 4:30pm on the night of the event with the televised bouts to begin at 7pm.
“The Battle of Champions” is promoted by Top Rank Incorporated in association with ArenaBox Promotions and Zanfer Promotions.
News Flash
August 2010Q & A: Selcuk Aydin!
Berto V Aydin Coming Soon?
Unbeaten Turkish welterweight star Selcuk Aydin is on collision course with WBC champion Andre Berto. But does ARENA’s „Mini-Tyson“ feel he is ready for the big shot yet and what does he say about his performance in his last fight against „Jo-Jo“ Dan back in June? Let’s ask him...
Selcuk, how did you recover from your last fight on June 5th against „Jo-Jo Dan“?
Aydin: As usual I took some time off to see my family and friends. But I also analyzed the fight and the special circumstances surrounding it.
What was the result of your analysis? And what do you mean with ‚special circumstances’?
Aydin: First of all I have to say that I am a perfectionist and I’m never one hundred percent satisfied with my performance. In this case I realized that I was not as focused as I need to be. It was a very special night for me; my first world title fight and a fight in my home country with so many fans pushing me forward. I felt the pressure because I knew I could not disappoint or let down my people. And I didn’t only focus on the fight and my fight tactics but also on the promotional work. I thought about ticket sales and TV ratings which is not what you should do when you’re the fighter. In the future I will leave all of this to my promoter and my manager as it should be.
Apart from the pressure and the marketing – how would you rate your performance in the ring? Were you satisfied with the way you fought the fight?
Aydin: As I said I am never satisfied. When I saw the fight on tape I realized that I didn’t throw enough punches in the last couple of rounds. To be honest I probably thought that I would knock out my opponent in the early rounds. You know that I knocked him down and had him in trouble early on. But he is a tough guy and I got to give him credits for his stamina and willpower. He kept on coming forward from the first to the last bell no matter how hard I hit him. It was a very tough fight and a great test for me.
Some people say you only won the fight because you were the home fighter in front of an enthusiatic crowd which helped you getting a very lucky decision win...
Aydin: I think I deserved the win but, of course, my people pushed me to the win. I know that there are always discussions about close fights. And it will always be like this. That’s why I like to end my fights early instead of going to the scorecards. Still I think that I connected with the clearer and harder shots. Of course, my opponent was very active and threw more punches – especially in the late rounds. But most of the time I was able to block or avoid his punches and he only hit my defense. He wasn’t nearly as accurate as I was. Although I don’t know the statistics I would say that we connected with a similar amount of shots although he threw a lot more punches that night. It always depends if you favor accuracy or activity.
Would you consider giving „Jo-Jo Dan“ a re-match? Do you know if there are any talks about this?
Aydin: Of course, we can talk about a re-match at some point of time. Fighting this opponent again would give me the chance to prove that I can knock him out to end all discussions. But for the time being I have other opponents waiting for me. I always said that I wanted to fight big names in great showdowns. After winning three consecutive elimination bouts I think it’s about time that I get my hands on one of the top guys in the division. And everybody knows that Andre Berto is no. 1 on my personal hit list.
The WBC has ordered Berto and his camp to start negotiations with your promoter. Have you heard anything about it yet?
Aydin: I recognized some news articles from Lou DiBella saying I'm not an interesting opponent. But I also know that talks have started. As I said before – I learned from my last fight that I must not care about the manager’s and promoter’s work. They are doing a great job and I trust them. I’m sure they will make this fight happen. I only focus on my job which is getting ready and in shape for the upcoming challenges.
After your last performance would you say you are ready for an opponent like Berto yet?
Aydin: Of course, I’m ready. You cannot only judge a fighter from one fight. Before „Jo-Jo Dan“ I have knocked out Sugar Jackson Bonsu and beat Said Ouali in his backyard. If we are talking about judges favouring the home fighter I have proven against Ouali that it’s possible to get a decision win abroad. I am not afraid of travelling. Of course, I love to fight in front of my home crowd back home in Turkey. But I am also ready to prove myself in the USA or anywhere in the world.
Talking about fighting in America. You were recently spotted on a Don King show in St. Louis where you were introduced as one of King’s new hot prospects. What do you know of and think about Don King and how did you get in touch with him?
Aydin: My promoter Ahmet Öner made a co-promotional deal with King. Ahmet and ARENA had brought me to the US before when I fought Ouali in April 2009. America is still the best place in the world for professional boxing so I am proud that I can represent my country on the biggest stage in the world. Don King is the most popular and most successful promoter in the history of the sport. In fact, he is already a part of history but still very active and a very intelligent man. I am proud to have a legend like him in my corner now. This is what every young fighter all over the world dreams of: Having the chance to shake Don King’s hand and get big fights in the USA.
So when will we see you in the ring again? Do you have any idea if and when the fight against Berto will happen?
Aydin: I hope that the fight will go on and I hope it will go on soon. I can only say that I am ready and up for the challenge. I always said that I want to fight the best in the world and I am willing to live up to my word right away. I am not ducking anybody. I want to prove my critics wrong and show my fans the best I got.
News Flash
August 2010TICKET ALERT!
WINDY CITY FIGHT NIGHT 12.
8 Count Productions, HOME OF THE BEST IN CHICAGO BOXING, has announced details of WINDY CITY FIGHT NIGHT 12, a sensational night of action packed, world class professional boxing set for Friday, September 17th at the UIC Pavilion.
Advance tickets for WINDY CITY FIGHT NIGHT 12, starting at $31 are available through Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com), the UIC Pavilion Box Office (312-413-5740) and the 8 Count Productions’ Office (312-226-5800).
Headlining WINDY CITY FIGHT NIGHT 12 is a ten round middleweight shootout between Ireland’s Andy Lee and Chicago’s Michael Walker.
Fighting out of Detroit, Michigan under the tutelage of legendary trainer Emanuel Steward, the 26 year old Lee has amassed a record of 22-1-0 with sixteen knockouts since turning professional four years ago.
Lee is currently riding a seven bout winning streak, most recently brutally knocking out James Cook in the fifth round on July 30th in Miami, Oklahoma.
Lee is currently world ranked #10 by the World Boxing Association. This will be Lee’s second bout in Chicago having knocked out James Morrow in the first round on October 2, 2007.
Chicago born and raised Walker has been a staple of the Chicagoland boxing scene for the last six years, compiling a record of 19-4-2 (12KO’s).
Over the course of his professional career Walker has faced numerous world class fighters and contenders including Antwun Echols, Daniel Jacobs, David Lopez, Fernando Guerrero, Dante Craig and Derrick Findley.
The co-main event will feature the return to the ring of Chicago’s Mexican Warrior, Luciano “EL Michoacano” Perez taking on undefeated Russian junior middleweight Anton “The Pick Hammer” Novikov in a scheduled eight round tilt.
The 32 year old Perez, 17-10-1 (15KO’s), has been a constant presence in the squared circle for the last seven years, always in compelling “blood and guts” battles, having earned the respect of fight fans across the country.
His career reads like a who’s who of world champions and contenders throughout boxing, including; Carlos Baldomir, Mike Jones, Erislandy Lara, Jesus Soto-Karass and Alphonso Gomez.
On March 27, 2009, Perez knocked out cross-town rival Miguel Hernandez in the fifth round at the inaugural WINDY CITY FIGHT NIGHT at the UIC Pavilion.
Hailing from Kopeysk, Russia, the 22 year old Novikov, 16-0-0 (6KOs). will be fighting for the first time in the United States. On February 28, 2009 Novikov defeated Isaac Selom by ten round unanimous decision to earn the WBC Youth World Middleweight Title, which he has defended twice.
Novikov is coming off an eight round unanimous decision over Eduard Romanchuk on April 24th in Krasnoyarsk, Russian.
In a special attraction six round bout featuring undefeated welterweight prospects Aslanbek Kozaev, 11-0-0 (4KO’s), of Vladikavkaz, Russia and Michigan City, Indiana’s Marcus Thompkins, 5-0-1 (2KO’s).
The 22 year old Kozaev won the WBC Youth Intercontinental Welterweight Title on October 24, 2009, winning a ten round unanimous decision over Prince Doku Jr. in Vladikavkaz. Most recently Kozaev defended the title with a unanimous decision over Dan Nazareno Jr. on April 24th in Krasnoyarsk, Russia.
Thompkins is coming off an action packed six round draw against fellow undefeated Boyd Henley on May 29th at the UIC Pavilion. The draw with Henley was the 25 year old Thompkins’ first bout in Chicago.
Featured on the undercard at WINDY CITY FIGHT NIGHT 12 will be local fan favorites and newcomers; junior welterweight Adrian “EL Tigre” Granados, 3-0-0 (2KO’s), super middleweight Mike “Hollywood” Jimenez, 1-0-0 (1KO), junior welterweight Antonio Canas, 1-0-0 (1KO) and middleweight Ramon Valenzuela, Jr. 1-0-0 (1KO), all of whom will be featured in separate bouts.
Also on the card will be junior middleweight prospect Donatas Bondarevas, 8-1-1 (2KO’s), of Kaunas, Lithuania and super feather Evgeny Gradovich, 4-0-0 (3KO’s) of Igrim, Russia, both of whom will be in six rounders.
Further information on these bouts will be announced shortly.
Doors on the evening of the event will open at 7pm with the first bell at 8pm. The UIC Pavilion is located at 525 S. Racine, just one block south of the Eisenhower Expressway. For further information, please visit their website at www.uicpavilion.com. The UIC Pavilion is now serving alcohol at all boxing events.
News Flash
August 2010The Gorilla Set To Turn Pro!
Friday September 10TH.
Angel’s ABC top Middleweight, southpaw John Ryder who is nicknamed “the Gorilla” will be crossing over to the paid ranks on the undercard of the exciting “Night of International Boxing” which is taking place on Friday 10th September at York Hall, Bethnal Green.
The co – feature fights involving two of the UK and Ireland’s very best boxers, John O’Donnell who is taking on Olympic Bronze Medalist American Terrence Cauthen over 12 rounds and Tyson Fury who will be fighting over 10 rounds will be televised in America on SHOWTIME® at 11p.m. ET/PT (same day delay). The event will also be shown in Canada on the Super Channel Network and the UK Broadcaster will be announced soon.
The top class amateur from Islington is hoping that he continues his impressive amateur pedigree of 30 wins in 35 contests, into the professional game.
John Ryder said, “This is a new path in my life and I’m really looking forward to making my pro debut in front of the boxing fans at York Hall. I’m looking to go out and make a good impression but not looking to get over excited and go all out for the knockout, but do what I do best which is box. “
Highly regarded trainer Tony Sims who has recently signed management papers with Ryder said, “I am very pleased to have signed up John, he is a top prospect and I believe his style is suited for the pros. He had a good amateur career in which he won two ABA national senior novice championships and the North West London Divisional middleweight title and boxed the likes of George Groves and Kirk Garvey”
“He also will bring his trainer Colin Lake with him; it has worked well up till now so why change it.”
“The Gorilla will be spending quality time at my gym and sparring the likes of European and British Champion Darren Barker, John O’Donnell and Lee Purdy which will only add to his Sharpness“
The exciting “Night of International Boxing” will also see Colchester’s Lee “Lights Out” Purdy who will be back in action looking to defend his Southern Area Welterweight title (*subject to board approval), Royston’s former ABA Champion Bradley Evans is stepping up to 6 x 3 minutes rounds for the first time in his pro career, Phill “Intense” Fury will be looking to record his 6th straight victory and the highly popular Light Welterweight Chris “the flash” Evangelou from Enfield’s will be looking to entertain the York Hall crowd and extend his unbeaten record.
Haddenham’s Tyler Goodjohn (Light Welterweight) will also be making his professional debut on the night.
Tickets for this great night of international boxing are ON SALE NOW and can be purchased from the Ticketline Box Office on 0844 888 4402 or via www.hennessysports.com. Tickets are £35 for unreserved seats and £60 for Ringside.
News Flash
August 2010Goodjohn Set For Pro Debut!
On September 10TH.
Haddenham’s Tyler Goodjohn is set to turn his back on his amateur career and make his professional debut on the undercard of the exciting “Night of International Boxing” promoted by Hennessy Sports at York Hall, Bethnal Green on Friday 10th September.
The co – feature fights involving two of the UK and Ireland’s very best boxers, John O’Donnell who is taking on Olympic Bronze Medalist American Terrence Cauthen over 12 rounds and Tyson Fury who will be fighting over 10 rounds will be televised in America on SHOWTIME® at 11p.m. ET/PT (same day delay). The event will also be shown in Canada on the Super Channel Network and the UK Broadcaster will be announced soon.
The 19 year old former Junior ABA champion made the decision a while ago to turn pro after a debatable decision in the quarter finals of the ABA’s went against him. So earlier this year he joined European Champion Darren Barker, Southern Area Champion Lee Purdy and hot prospect Bradley Evans by joining up with highly respected trainer, Hainault’s Tony Sims.
Trainer Tony Sims said “The lad is only 19 years old and has a lot to learn but he’s already showing true dedication and commitment by doing a 3 ½ hour round trip a day just to get to the gym. But then again when you think he’s training and sparring with the likes of John O’Donnell, Lenny Daws and Lee Purdy it makes the travelling worthwhile and can only have a positive effect on his future.”
Tyler Goodjohn said “It’s always been in the pipe line for me to turn pro and that decision was made even easier when I teamed up with Tony Sims, he’s not only a top bloke but also a fantastic trainer who has already taught me so much in the last 6 months. It also helps when you train with guys like Darren Barker, Lee Purdy and Bradley Evans. All of this experience can only make me become a better boxer and seeing what Darren has achieved inspires me to work hard and follow in his footsteps.”
“I will be bringing a good crowd with me to York Hall and hopefully I will reward them by put on an exciting show and recording my first win.” Added Goodjohn.
The exciting “Night of International Boxing” will also see Colchester’s Lee “Lights Out” Purdy who will be back in action looking to defend his Southern Area Welterweight title (*subject to board approval), Royston’s former ABA Champion Bradley Evans is stepping up to 6 x 3 minutes rounds for the first time in his pro career, Phill “Intense” Fury will be looking to record his 6th straight victory and the highly popular Light Welterweight Chris “the flash” Evangelou from Enfield will be looking to entertain the York Hall crowd and extend his unbeaten record.
John “Gorilla” Ryder (Middleweight) of Islington will also be making his professional debut on the night.
Tickets for this great night of international boxing are ON SALE NOW and can be purchased from the Ticketline Box Office on 0844 888 4402 or via www.hennessysports.com. Tickets are £35 for unreserved seats and £60 for Ringside.
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News Flash
August 2010DBE SIGNS MIHTAR!
DiBella Entertainment Roster Continues To Grow.
DiBella Entertainment’s ever expanding roster of world champions, top contenders, and the best prospects in boxing continues to grow with the signing of hard punching Detroit product Brian “The Lion” Mihtar (13-1, 10 KOs).
Mihtar, 30, has won four straight since his lone career setback, a tight six round decision loss to veteran Chris Gray in 2008. In his last outing, Mihtar easily outclassed former regional title challenger Robert Kamya.
"Words can't express how thrilled I am to be working with [DiBella Entertainment President] Lou DiBella,” said Mihtar.
“My advisor [Greg Leon] and Lou have done a lot of great work together and I've put my trust in them. I know they're going to give me what I've always wanted, which is the opportunity. When they do, I know I'm going to deliver."
Mihtar turned pro in 2003 after a successful amateur career, which included two wins at the prestigious Fiesta Mexicana Boxing Championship, held annually in Detroit. Mihtar is also a leader by nature, having been named Captain of the legendary Kronk Gym team in competitions against rival gyms as an amateur on five different occasions.
His experience and his hometown are what prompted DiBella Entertainment to bring Mihtar on board.
“Brian is a good kid and a compelling fighter, and just being from Detroit speaks to his grit and determination inside the ring,” said Lou DiBella.
“Brian will get the opportunity to test himself and prove his mettle under the DBE banner.”
Advising Mihtar through the process of choosing a promoter was Greg Leon, who also advises Showtime Super Six: World Boxing Classic participant Allan Green.
“DiBella Entertainment has a proven track record,” said Leon.
“Lou and his company work tirelessly to ensure that their boxers receive opportunities that have eluded them, and it will only be a short amount of time before DBE gives Brian Mihtar what he's been asking for: the chance to allow his skills to propel him to the next level."
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News Flash
August 2010ALGIERI HEADLINES!
SEPTEMBER 16TH AT THE CAPITALE.
On Thursday September 16th, Star Boxing and The Empire Sports and Entertainment will present an exciting and entertaining night of professional boxing at the New York City's famous and luxurious Capitale located in downtown Manhattan. Headlining the card will be the newest addition to Star Boxing's growing stable, Huntington's undefeated, Chris Algieri (10-0, 5KO's), as he takes on upset-minded Martin Tucker (7-6, 3KO's) in an eight round jr. welterweight contest.
"We are excited to be bringing a night of thrilling boxing entertainment to the Capitale with The Empire," stated Joe DeGuardia, CEO and President of Star Boxing. "It is always great to do shows in NYC and The Capitale is a premier banquet hall that provides for classic boxing. We expect a sellout, so get your tickets early!"
"I am thrilled to be working with my good friend Joe DeGuardia on Capitale Punishment II," stated Greg Cohen, President and Founder of The Empire Sports and Entertainment. "We are going to put on a terrific show and expect to pack the house once again. The New York fans definitely won't want to miss this event."
Regarding the card, DeGuardia said, "We are excited to be featuring our newest signee Chris Algieri on the card. Being from Long Island, Chris has begun to develop a large following throughout New York, and we expect an exciting performance out of him come September 16th. We are also going to be loading the undercard with some of the tri-state area's hottest up and coming talent, making it a night of boxing you certainly will not want to miss."
Algieri is coming off a six round unanimous decision over James Hope in his last outing earlier this year. Algieri turned pro boxer in 2008, after an extensive and successful career as a kick boxer. After winning the USKBA Northeast Championship as an amateur, Algieri turned pro at just 19-years-old, and went on to win the WKA Super Welterweight World Championship just two years later.
Algieri ended his kick boxing career as the undefeated, undisputed kick boxing world champion, in not one, but two weight divisions. Now with the backing of Star Boxing, the 'model handsome' Algieri is looking to start making some noise in the loaded jr. welterweight division.
The 30-year-old Tucker, who hails from Ohio, is a tough brawler who has only been stopped once in his career. Tucker is two fights removed from his career best victory, an upset unanimous decision victory over previously unbeaten Michael Torres (13-0, 7KO's). Tucker also holds a win over once beaten Rashad Holloway who battled to draw in his last bout with former NABF and New York State light welterweight champion, Francisco Figuerora.
A complete undercard will be announced shortly. Tickets are currently on sale and are being priced at $200, **$150**, and $50. Tickets may be purchased by calling Star Boxing at (718)823-2000. **For information on discounted $150 seats for advanced purchase call now!** For more information visit www.starboxing.com or www.theempirese.com.
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News Flash
August 2010ShoBox The New Generation!
O’Donnell & Fury To Headline In London.
On Friday 10th September, York Hall, Bethnal Green will host an exciting night of international boxing when former unbeaten Commonwealth champion John O’Donnell (Shepherd’s Bush / Galway) makes his U.S. “ShoBox: The New Generation” debut and takes on his toughest opponent in the ring to date over 12 rounds, New Jersey’s (USA) 1996 Olympic bronze medallist Terrence “Heat” Cauthen.
The current English Heavyweight champion Tyson Fury (Manchester/Galway) will also make his ShoBox debut as the co-feature against an international opponent over 10 rounds. (Details on Tyson’s opponent will be announced shortly)
The O’Donnell and Fury bouts will be televised in America on SHOWTIME® at 11p.m. ET/PT (same day delay). The event will also be shown in Canada on the Super Channel Network and the UK Broadcaster will be announced soon.
The London based Irishman John O’Donnell said “This is a step up in class for me, Cauthen is a slick experienced southpaw who has a good reputation in the U.S. and a great amateur pedigree having won a bronze medal in the Olympics for the USA.”
Cauthen who is nicknamed “Heat” won the Lightweight Bronze medal at the Olympic games in Atlanta in 1996 while fighting out of Joe Frazier’s gym in Philly before turning professional, since then the fast handed southpaw has gone on to record 35 wins out of 42 contests.
“I won’t be underestimating this guy, but I am out to put on a good show and take him out in style, and show the American audience what I am all about.” The Irishman added.
Heavyweight Sensation Tyson Fury said “I am delighted to be going out to a large American audience on Showtime. I know the Americans will appreciate my style of fighting and they love heavyweights, so I am going to put a show on for them on September 10th. I want to be the first modern day Irishman to win the Heavyweight World title.”
Promoter Mick Hennessy said “I am very proud to be doing this show with Showtime which gives me an opportunity to show the American public just how good O’Donnell and Fury are. They will both be representing the UK and Ireland on the biggest boxing stage of all.”
Marquee Super Six star Carl “the Cobra” Froch said, “I’ve known John since he turned pro in 2004 and have sparred him on a number of occasions. I believe he is one of Britain’s best prospects and by fighting tough opponents like Cauthen, it is a big step in the right direction and showing that he is a top talent who will be ready very soon to mix it up on the World stage.”
On the undercard Colchester’s Lee “Lights Out” Purdy will be back in action looking to defend his Southern Area Welterweight title (*subject to board approval), Royston’s former ABA Champion Bradley Evans will be stepping up to 6 x 3 minutes rounds for the first time in his pro career, Phill “Intense” Fury will be looking to continue his winning ways and the highly popular Light Welterweight Chris “the flash” Evangelou from Enfield’s will be looking to entertain the York Hall crowd and extend his unbeaten record.
The evening will also see Haddenham’s Tyler Goodjohn (Light Welterweight) and John “the Gorilla” Ryder (Middleweight) of Islington out to make a name for themselves as they both make their professional debuts.
Tickets for this great night of international boxing are ON SALE NOW and can be purchased from the Ticketline Box Office on 0844 888 4402 or via www.hennessysports.com. Tickets are £35 for unreserved seats and £60 for Ringside.
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News Flash
August 2010MIKE LEE CONQUERS CHICAGO!
NOTRE DAME BOXING CHAMPION.
Notre Dame Boxing Champion Mike Lee returned to his hometown of Chicago on Thursday, August 19th for a whirlwind of media events, a visit with Mayor Daley and a trip to his alma mater.
Lee is currently training with Ronnie Shields in Houston, Texas in anticipation of his second professional bout on Saturday, September 11th in Las Vegas on the undercard of the HBO televised World Featherweight Bout between Yuriorkis Gamboa and Orlando Salido at the Palms Resort and Casino.
Starting at the early morning hour of 5:45am, Lee paid a visit to CBS-TV’s Monsters and Money in the Morning where he spoke with co-hosts Terry Savage and Mike Hegedus to discuss his upcoming bout and his pro debut this past May 29th, a sensational four round unanimous win over Emmitt Woods at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago.
Next stop for Lee was a trip to visit the University of Notre Dame campus for a private meeting with Vice-President Louis M. Nanni.
Lee returned to Chicago in the early afternoon and headed to the Comcast studios for an appearance on Chicago Tribune Live with host Chuck Garfien.
Following his appearance on Chicago Tribune Live, Lee was welcomed by Mayor Daley who wished him luck in his upcoming bout and discussed Notre Dame, the Mayor’s daughter Elizabeth also being a recent graduate. Prior to turning professional, Lee received a finance degree from Notre Dame in 2009.
Lee wrapped up his busy day taking in the amateur bouts at Chicago’s Fight Night Club, where his introduction was met by rapt applause from the packed house on the near North Side of Chicago.
The 23 year old light heavyweight returned to Houston on Friday to continue his training for the September 11th bout on the Top Rank Incorporated promoted event. Said Lee, ‘It was a great day spent in Chicago with the highlight of the day visiting with Lou Nanni at the University of Notre Dame and meeting Mayor Daley, now its back to business with Ronnie in Houston.”
For more information on Mike Lee, please visit his website at www.mikeleeboxing.com and follow him on Facebook at Mike Lee (Boxer). Further information can also be obtained on the Top Rank website at www.toprank.com
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News Flash
August 2010GOOSSEN ON TONEY!
DAN GOOSSEN SPEAKS ON JAMES TONEY'S UFC DEBUT.
On the 28th of this month, the now 41-year old James "Lights Out" Toney - a sure-fire Hall of Fame boxer who has spent the last 22 years pounding his opponents inside the ropes of professional boxing rings - will step inside the Octagon at the TD Garden in Boston, MA making his mixed martial arts debut against another legend of a different sport, 47-year old former UFC heavyweight champion Randy Couture.
Many people have wondered why James Toney (72-6-3, 44 KOs) - a man who has captured multiple world titles in multiple weight classes in his sport - would make his MMA debut against someone of the caliber of Randy Couture.
Some would say James chased the fight. Others say James took up the challenge when Dana White stated that MMA fighters were better than boxers.
The truth is, James fighting in the UFC dates back to 2003. Serious discussions were held between Lorenzo Fertitta (Chairman of UFC's parent company) and me exploring a matchup between James and Tito Ortiz, who at that time was their UFC star. And as we see today, even then, James was more then willing to take the challenge, even though his boxing career was bringing him millions of dollars.
James first bout with Goossen Tutor Promotions, a classic highlight reel KO of Jason Robinson in August 2002 through victories over the undefeated Vasily Jirov and heavyweight legend Evander Holyfield, proved there was no challenge James Toney would turn down.
Being the fighter he was and a fan favorite, he generated millions of dollars against the likes of Holyfield, John Ruiz, Hasim Rahman and Samuel Peter - each of whom had worn world heavyweight crowns. More astonishing, the Klitschko Brothers - Vitali and Wladimir - still deemed James too dangerous of a challenge to risk their world heavyweight title belts, despite his age.
Since 1997, covering 23 bouts, James has had only two losses, one of them being the highly criticized and controversial decision to Sam Peter in their first bout. So with the Klitschko's out, James revisited the opportunity he was willing to do years before in taking on one of the UFC heavyweight legends.
In doing so, I told James six months of training for a completely different sport would not provide him the experience to prevent being at a severe disadvantage. But being the fighter he is, he was willing to transition to a sport that was COMPLETELY foreign to him, and take on one of its all-time legends.
The significant differences James will be facing entering the Octagon include the use of 4 oz. gloves, no footwear, and 5-minute rounds. In addition to the use of hands, his legs and feet are also weapons. These are daunting challenges that very few would ever consider doing at this level, especially never having done it before.
As I told James years before, the UFC would try to use his name to make a fight with him as an MMA vs. Boxer promotion. As we now know, next weeks fight is being billed as UFC vs. Boxing.
So why would a Hall of Fame boxer want to take on one of the greats in a completely different, dangerous sport in which he only had a handful of months to prepare?
Because James Toney is a TRUE WARRIOR and the epitome of a REAL CHAMPION. It's only one of the reasons why I have the utmost respect for my friend James Toney as a fighter and, more importantly, as a man.
Admittedly, the odds are greatly against James in this battle of legends from different sports; such as they would be if football's Tom Brady took his Super Bowl arm and tried to step-in and pitch for the Boston Red Sox in the World Series.
And while UFC in this instance is trying to show that their athletes are superior to those in boxing, I believe both sports, different as they are, exhibit real fighters.
Even if Randy Couture defeats James Toney - which is not a foregone conclusion by
any means - the UFC would not have bragging rights just yet. For that to happen, Couture would have to defeat James Toney in a boxing match.
To that end, Goossen Tutor Promotions is prepared to offer to Randy Couture, win, lose or draw, the same guaranteed payday he will be receiving for his UFC bout with James Toney if he would accept a challenge to meet James in a 12-round BOXING match immediately after this bout with James. This, indeed, would demonstrate the TRUE WARRIOR SPIRIT that James Toney is exhibiting by taking on the challenge of Couture in his sport.
If Randy Couture believes he would be at a severe disadvantage going against James in a boxing match and not accept this challenge, then all we have next week is a boxing legend taking up another challenge, in another sport, that few, if any, would be willing to do.
UNTIL THAT CHALLENGE IS TAKEN, James Toney will stand alone as one of the most gifted, true warriors of all time.
”
News Flash
August 2010PATH TO GLORY WEIGHTS!
FROM CORONA, CA.
Mauricio Herrera- 140 lbs. V Hector A la Torre- 140 lbs.
Chris Rizo - 140.5 lbs. V Luis Alfredo Lugo - 137.5 lbs.
Jesse Roman- 134 lbs. V Manuel Delcid - 133.5 lbs.
Malcolm Franklin- 112 lbs. V Miguel Diaz- 113 lbs.
Jhon Ortega- 142 lbs. V Akeem Akinbode- 140 lbs.
Emanuel Medina- 141 lbs. V John Dunham - 146 lbs.
Doors open at 6:30pm
First bout at 7:45pm *Bouts subject to change* Tickets priced at $45 (reserved) & $30 (general) are available at the door.
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News Flash
August 2010ARENA SIGNS SIMON!
Ahmet Öner: "We are looking for young hungry German fighters with championship potential".
Promoter Ahmet Öner announced his plans for the next years at a press conference in Hamburg today.
"Boxing in Germany is pretty simple", the ARENA CEO said.
"Everything is good as long as you have German fighters with championship potential. The only problem is that there are only very few fighters who have the talent and the charisma to become a star. In the last couple of weeks we have been looking for young, hungry guys who are already established as pros but haven’t been recognized by the broad German public. And we signed some of them."
The best-known new athlete under the ARENA banner is middleweight contender Benjamin Simon (18-1, 17 kos) who won the IBF intercontinental championship by stopping durable Fabio Liggieri (12-6-4) in Berlin last May in 6 rounds.
Simon will give his ARENA debut on the undercard of the WBA middleweight championship between Felix Sturm and Giovanni Lorenzo on September 4th in Cologne, Germany, facing Juan Camilo Novoa (14-5-1) from Colombia. The show will be broadcasted live on SAT.1 in Germany and will be streamed live online on www.ran.de.
"It will be the first time for me to fight in front of almost 20,000 people and at a major show covered by TV", says Simon.
"I thank ARENA, Ahmet Öner, my trainer and manager Robert Rolle and my former promoter Eva Rolle who brought me this far. I want to show a great fight and prove that I got what it takes to become champion of the world."
Along with Simon, ARENA will present cruiserweight Patrik Dobroschi, and super middleweights Mike Keta, Ronny Slomke and Dennis Ronert at the show on September 4th.
"All of these guys have the potential we are looking for", says Öner. "We hope that some of them will become main event fighters in the next months and years."
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News Flash
August 2010Klitschko V Sosnowski!
Broadway Boxing To Air This Sunday On SNY And Around The Country On Comcast Sports Net Affiliates.
Heavyweight championship boxing is coming to Broadway. Broadway Boxing, that is.
The popular boxing series, long known for showcasing New York fight talent from venues all around the northeast, has secured the rights to rebroadcast Vitali Klitschko’s last fight, a tenth round stoppage of Albert Sosnowski this past May in Germany.
Broadway Boxing featuring Klitschko vs. Sosnowski will premiere this Sunday, August 22, at 8pm on SportsNet New York (SNY) for fans in the New York area or with satellite cable service. The show will also be syndicated through the country on Comcast Sportsnet affiliates. Check your local listings for exact airtimes.
Klitschko vs. Sosnowski is just one example of a new commitment to expanding the world class action seen on DiBella Entertainment’s Broadway Boxing series. Along with still showing action packed Broadway Boxing fight cards from venues such as the BB King Blues Club in New York City and Mechanics Hall in Worcester, Massachusetts, DiBella Entertainment has acquired the American television rights to recent bouts featuring the likes of Erik Morales and David Tua.
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News Flash
August 2010Huck V Godfrey!
Huck-Godfrey Presser In Germany.
Marco Huck’s WBO Cruiserweight Title Fight against Matt Godfrey will be special for more reasons than just one. The hard-hitting 25-year-old (29-1, 22 KOs) will make the fourth defense of his title on Saturday night in Erfurt, Germany, which will mark the 100th broadcast of a Sauerland show on German public TV giants ARD. He also needs a victory to book his place in the Cruiserweight Super Six, which Wilfried and Kalle Sauerland are hoping to finalize in the next weeks.
“There is a lot at stake this time out,” Huck said.
“I want to put on a special performance for the millions who are watching on German TV and all over the world.” Huck claimed he is not thinking about the potential Super Six series – yet.
“It has crossed my mind because such an idea would be a great thing for the exciting cruiserweight division but right now all my focus is on Matt Godfrey,” he added. “I will knock him out.”
Godfrey (20-1, 10 KOs) is confident he can spoil the big party on Saturday night.
“I am here to win this fight,” he said at today´s press conference.
“I want to thank Team Sauerland for giving me the chance to come over and take the title. They have picked the wrong opponent. I am no Brian Minto or Adam Richards – Huck has never been in the ring with someone like me and I will be doing things he has never seen before. I will bring home the title.”
Added his promoter Jimmy Burchfield:
“Matt is coming off the best camp of his career. We had to send home five sparring partners, including two heavyweights, because he knocked them all out. We are ready and we will take the title on Saturday night.”
Wilfried Sauerland joked he did not know that there were any American heavyweights left.
“Marco is in top shape and I am sure he will crown our 100th ARD broadcast with a big victory,” the Hall of Fame Promoter said.
“Godfrey is a tough guy and he moves very well, but Marco will eventually track him down. He needs a victory so that we can finalize the Super Six tournament in the cruiserweight division which hopefully will begin at the end of this year. But first things first – Marco should not look past Godfrey who is a strong opponent.”
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News Flash
August 2010CRISTOBAL ARREOLA!
NO PAIN, NO GAIN.
Seldom, if ever, has the saying, "No Pain, No Gain" seemed so mild compared to what Heavyweight warrior Cristobal Arreola endured last Friday at Citizens Business Bank Arena in front of an ESPN "Friday Night Fights" audience in his 12-round unanimous decision victory over Manuel Quezada for the WBC Mexican National Heavyweight Championship.
The good news is that Arreola's left hand was only fractured in the middle of the 2nd round. A splint was put in place today by Dr. Theodore Gregorius with a cast to be applied on Thursday once the swelling subsides. Prognosis: unable to use his left hand for 4 to 6 weeks.
Amazingly, Arreola continued throwing left-handed punches throughout the bout without regard to his injury or pain. Now the bad news is that in the 9th round Arreola sustained what he thought was a broken right hand, but today was informed he only tore a tendon; a far worse injury then a fracture. Thursday he will learn the date of the surgery. Prognosis: unable to use his left hand for 10 to 12 weeks.
Amazingly, Arreola continued fighting without injury free hands! Recalls Arreola, "In the 2nd round I hit Quezada on the forehead and felt a shooting pain in my left hand immediately. Every time I hit him I could feel a constant throbbing pain. Then in the 9th round, I threw a right hand, and I knew right then that it was gone. The pain was so intense in both hands I remember thinking I had to be very cautious in keeping my hands up and only throwing effective punches since I was limited in throwing as many as I wanted, especially in the 10th through 12th rounds."
"I've heard of one-handed fighters, but never have I heard (or seen) a fighter with no hands (at least healthy) at his disposal," said Dan Goossen, Arreola's promoter.
"Arreola took No Pain, No Gain to the Extreme last Friday." That's what fighters do.
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News Flash
August 2010MORALES LOOKING FOR 50!
Morales Press Conference Quotes.
With Mexican soccer star Rafa Marquez: “In my next fight I plan to use Rafa Marquez-like defense and the offense of (Thierry) Henry.”
On why Morales returned to the ring: “I’m not doing this for economic reasons. I’m not doing this for ego. I just want to come back and do it for the joy of boxing. Reporters want to write. The camera guys want to shoot. Because that’s what you do and that’s what you do best. Fighting is what I do best. Five years as an amateur, 16 years as a professional – this is what I do. Now I want to do it and enjoy it and do it my way.
“The reason why I’m coming back into the ring, being at 49 (wins) and wanting to get to that 50th win, which is a mark all great fighters have, that elusive 50th win.
I found the support with my family. I’m still a young man. I want to go out and do this and everyone. Some may think I’m crazy because you don’t get better as you get older. I’m a young man, but I’m experienced.”
On what fans will see on Sept. 11: “They’ll see a faster, stronger Erik Morales, who is absolutely going to rock the ring and have everybody say, ‘There he is, he never left.’”
On the importance of the date and fight card: “For me, the reason Sept. 11 is so important, this is about Mexican Independence, this is about the Mexican Revolution. It becomes so important in boxing because Mexicans have distinguished themselves in boxing more than any other sport and have produced more world champions and the greatness of the Mexican fighter is renowned. Now, all that comes together, in one night. This event is so big that it requires four promoters to come together and put this together.”
News Flash
August 2010Huck V Godfrey!
Workouts In Germany.
WBO Cruiserweight Champion Marco “Captain” Huck (29-1, 22 KOs) and challenger Matt Godfrey (20-1, 10 KOs) today participated in an open media work-out in front of more than 500 fans in Erfurt, Germany.
Captain Huck is determined to defend his title for a fourth time on Saturday night.
“My fans love my aggressiveness and explosiveness and I will make sure Matt Godfrey will get a good taste of it,” Huck said.
“I am just too explosive for him. The belt stays in Germany. I want to put on another spectacular performance and defeat Godfrey in style.”
Even though Godfrey has left Ulli Wegner guessing in what stance he will fight, the German star coach said it does not matter.
“I have prepared Marco for both a southpaw as well as an orthodox stance,” he stated.
“Even if Godfrey intends to switch, it will not be a problem. Marco has worked hard in practice. If he listens to his corner, he will defend his title with another great victory.”
Meanwhile, Godfrey believes it will be him who leaves the ring victorious.
“I might not have the hardest punch, but I am smarter than Huck,” he said during today´s session.
“He’s a big strong guy and a very good puncher. He’s a little limited in some of the things he can do, but he’s very consistent in a lot of the things he does do. He’s a champion for a reason. He didn’t get 29 wins and 22 knockouts by accident. We have a big task on our hands, but we had a great camp to prepare for it. It will be a great fight. ”
News Flash
August 2010Harris A Player Again!
USBA Heavyweight Champion Maurice Harris.
The roller-coaster career of Maurice “Sugar Moe” Harris, winner of the 2002 ‘Thunderbox Heavyweight Tournament,” is riding high once again, coming off of his solid August 6 victory against IBF #15 prospect Nagy “Dominican Dynamite” Aguilera for the vacant USBA heavyweight title.
Harris (24-14-2, 10 KOs), who has beaten some of the best and also lost to journeymen, out-boxed and out-worked the much younger Aguilera (16-3, 11 KOs) to earn a unanimous decision (117-111 twice, 115-113), as well as the USBA belt.
“It feels good being a champion again,” Harris said.
“I’m one step closer to my dream of fighting for the world title. I’d be honored to fight one of the Klitschko brothers. They’re both strong and big. I like them a lot, personally, having worked with them in 2005 in Venice Beach (CA). That’s when I got my first tattoo. Vitaly and Wladimir are great people, but I’m on a mission right now, so we’d have to put friendships aside. It’s just business.”
“Nagy had a big first round knockout of (former world champion Oleg) Maskaev last year,” Boxing 360 Director of Boxing Bob Duffy noted.
“He got knocked out by (Samuel) Peter, but he was still coming off of two impressive wins, and was rated No. 15 by the IBF. He’s a good young fighter but Maurice is the most experienced American heavyweight. He has a very good jab, experience. and now he’s confident with Boxing 360 supporting him. All of that could lead to a world heavyweight title fight. Who knows what the heavyweight division will look like next year?
“A lot of fighters near the top wait for their title shot and don’t fight too often. I don’t blame them for waiting, but we’re keeping Maurice busy, and he should be fighting again in October or November. The more active he is, especially with him as the new USBA champion, the higher up he should move in the ratings.
In 2001, Harris lost his only title shot to former world champion Chris Byrd, ironically, by 12-round decision for the USBA belt.
“Winning ‘Thunder Box’ was cool but this is better because I have a belt,” Maurice commented.
“I lost what I set out to do to against Chris Byrd – win a title belt -- but it just wasn’t my time. Now that I’m here, though, I don’t plan on leaving very soon. I’m fighting for my family and I’m getting closer and closer to my ultimate dream.
“I’m very spiritual and Big Daddy (God) up there made this possible. I’ve proven that anything can happen if you believe in yourself, work hard, and surround yourself with good people. I learned from Mario (Boxing 360 owner Dr. Mario Yagobi) to never take no for an answer. He lifts me, instills confidence in me, in and out of the ring. We respect each other. Now, I just do my job. Mario takes care of boxing things outside the ring. He has taught me a lot.”
Duffy, a veteran boxing promoter and former NYAC boxing commissioner, appreciates the difference in the new Maurice Harris.
“With all Maurice has been through during his career,” Duffy remarked, “instead of chasing opponents for him to fight, now, we’re getting calls about guys to fight him. Boxing 360 isn’t here to protect Maurice Harris, rather to keep him active, in order to position him to fulfill his dream of fighting for the world heavyweight title.”
A classic example of an underachiever for most of his 17 ½-year pro career, the reborn- Harris hopes to parlay his USBA title-winning performance into a memorable last hurrah.
“I’m a serious person,” the 34-year-old New Jersey fighter concluded.
“Boxing is my passion, my fulltime job; I love it to death. I’m already back working in the gym. I’m not going to stop working until I retire. I’ll never duck anybody. All it’s about is balancing my team, family and good living. I’ve seen it all and I like where I’m at right now.”
Go to www.Boxing360.com for more information about Harris, Boxing 360 or any of its other fighters.
News Flash
August 2010DBE SIGNS MANFREDO!
IBO Middleweight Peter Manfredo, Jr. Signs Promotional Deal With DiBella Entertainment.
Peter Manfredo, Jr., the reigning IBO middleweight champion, reality TV star, and icon in the New England fight scene, has signed multi-year promotional deal with DiBella Entertainment. Manfredo (35-6, 19 KOs) is coming off a tenth round stoppage of former world title challenger Angel Hernandez in May.
“I am thrilled to sign a promotional deal with DiBella Entertainment,” said Manfredo.
“This was made possible through the hard work of my team. My trainer, and dad, Peter Manfredo, Sr. has gotten me back to the basics which made me a world champion, and my manager, Larry Amry, Jr., has guided my career in a manner that has made signing with one of the top promoters in the world a reality.”
Manfredo, 29, of Providence, Rhode Island, has spent the vast majority of his ten-year career matching the mettle with the world’s best from 154-168 pounds. Manfredo holds wins over the likes of Ian Gardner, Grady Brewer, Scott Pemberton, Joey Spina, and former world champion Frankie “The Surgeon” Randall. He has also shared the ring with notables such as Joe Calzaghe, Jeff Lacy, and Sakio Bika.
In 2004, Manfredo was a cast member on the original season of The Contender. As part of the show, Manfredo showcased his talents with wins over Alfonso Gomez, Miguel Espino, and Joey Gilbert, despite losing in the finals to Sergio Mora.
Currently, Manfredo is riding a four fight win streak, with his last two wins taking place at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut. Despite having fought around the United States, and in three different countries, the Providence native is revered in New England, having fought his first 17 pro fights, and 18 in Rhode Island, Connecticut, or Massachusetts.
“Peter Manfredo is one of the best hometown attractions in all of boxing,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment.
“Not only that, Peter has world class skills to go along with his fan base. While Peter will never be on a pound-for-pound list, he is a great Italian-American warrior, who continues in the tradition of Mancini, Pazienza, and Gatti.”
In addition to holding the IBO title at middleweight, Manfredo is also ranked #15 by the WBC. He will make his DBE debut this autumn as he looks toward more fights with the biggest names middleweight and super middleweight have to offer.
“With DiBella in my corner,” said Manfredo.
“I have the strongest team in boxing, and I know that an opportunity to defend my title and fight other champions is now a reality.”
News Flash
August 2010Berto V Aydin!
Ahmet Öner: If HBO is not interested we can easily do the fight in Turkey.
Aydin’s promoter Ahmet Öner: "I talked to HBO and I heard that DiBella doesn’t want Berto to face Aydin and is working on other opponents. But in boxing you can’t always get what you want. We are talking about a mandatory fight here. The WBC has ordered the fight and the reigning and defending champion should respect this decision. Of course, I understand that as a promoter DiBella is looking to protect his fighter and give him an easy win against an opponent with a good reputation. But this is not a problem of HBO being interested in the fight or not.
It’s not my problem that Berto isn’t big enough of a star in the US that the general interest in his fights depends on the opponents. If Berto alone isn’t interesting enough for HBO we can easily do the fight in Turkey. Nobody cares about Berto there but TV and fans care enough about Selcuk Aydin to pay good money for the fight. We can make an offer to Berto and DiBella today to fight in Trabzon which guarantees him probably more money than he’ll ever get from HBO. The WBC is not called World Boxing Council for nothing. There is no rule that championship fights including US fighters have to be in America."
DiBella also said that Aydin "didn’t do any favors for himself" with his performance against "Jo-Jo Dan" in June; a fight Aydin won by split decision.
Adds Öner "If DiBella thinks that Selcuk is that easy to beat he shouldn’t be worrying about the mandatory fight but just take it, win and go on from there. And regarding the ‚controversity’ of Selcuk’s win over Jo-Jo Dan: Yes, it was a close fight and we were on the lucky end. But that’s just the way it goes. You win some, you lose some. I know a lot of people who didn’t see Berto winning against Collazo but still he got the decison. And I’m not complaining about him being an unworthy champion or lousy opponent for my fighter. Selcuk is a warrior. He wants to prove that he is real. He has worked his way through the division beating Said Ouali, Jackon Bonsu and Jo-Jo Dan in three consecutive elimination bouts. Why not give him a chance? Instead they are discussing names like Kotelnik who is not even in the same division... a guy who has always fought at 140 and lost his last two should be a better – and more credible – choice than the unbeaten mandatory challenger? Are you kidding me?"
News Flash
August 2010HENNESSY SIGNS ASSELSTINE!
HENNESSY SPORTS SIGNS TYLER ASSELSTINE.
Hennessy Sports Canada is proud to announce the signing of amateur sensation Tyler Asselstine to a long term exclusive promotional agreement.
With just three years of experience, the 23 year old Kingston, Ontario native overcame a late start in boxing, quickly excelling into a world class amateur.
Asselstine was a member of Canadian National Team in 2009, competing against Poland, Ireland, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. This month he won the 2010 Ringside World Championships in Kansas City, Missouri.
Adam Harris of Hennessy Sports Canada is thrilled to have Asselstine join his team, “We’re very proud to welcome Tyler to the Hennessy Sports Canada team. I’ve been following him closely over the course of the last couple of years and consider him to be a future world champion. We look forward to working closely with him as he progresses towards that goal.”
Along with being promoted by Hennessy Sports Canada, Asselstine is trained and managed by Eric Belanger in Ottawa, Ontario.
Campaigning in the featherweight division, Asselstine will have his professional debut announced shortly.
News Flash
August 2010Terrible Returns!
Erik Morales Goes For 50th Win.
Integrated Sports Media, North America’s undisputed Pay-Per-View distribution leader of major boxing events, will showcase Mexican great Erik “Terrible” Morales to American boxing fans once again September 11, headlining the “Mexican Fiesta” pay-per-view event live from Mexico City.
“We’re excited to bring U.S. boxing fans the second comeback fight for living legend Erik Morales, who is the last man to defeat Manny Pacquaio,” Integrated Sports Media president Doug Jacobs said.
“It’s a privilege for Integrated Sports Media to air this living legend’s continued comeback. The rest of the card is loaded with interesting fights that insure an entertaining night of boxing.”
“Mexican Fiesta,” presented by Grupo Empresarial Matiz, is being distributed in the United States by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9 PM/ET – 6 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view for a suggested retail price of only $29.95.
Three-division world champion Morales (49-6, 34 KOs), who returned this past March 27, after 2 ½ years of inactivity, defeating former WBA lightweight titlist Jose “Jicaras” Alfaro (23-6, 20 KOs) by a 12-round decision for the WBC Intercontinental welterweight crown, is on a mission to become the first Mexican to capture world titles in four different weight classes.
Morales goes for his 50th career win in the 12-round main event on “Mexican Fiesta” against WBU lightweight champion Willie “Hands of Steel” Limond (33-2, 8 KOs), of Scotland, for the vacant WBC Diamond Super Lightweight Championship.
One of the most revered Mexican fighters of all-time, Morales’ list of victims over the years reads like a Who’s Who list of boxing stars: Manny Pacquiao, Marco Antonio Barrera, Pauli Ayala, Wayne McCullough, Junior Jones, Carlos Hernandez, Jesus Chavez, Guty Espada, Jr. (twice), Daniel Zaragoza and Kevin Kelly.
Former WBC Light Flyweight Champion Edgar Sosa (39-6, 23 KOs) takes on European flyweight titlist Andrea Sarritzu (34-4-4, 12 KOs), of Italy, in the 12-round co-feature for the WBC International Flyweight Championship.
In a female super flyweight battle of champions, WBC titlist Ann Marie “La Guerrera” Torres (21-3-2, 13 KOs), of Mexico, takes on WIBF and GBU champion Alesia “The Tigress” Graf (25-1, 9 KOs), of Germany, in a 10-round title bout fpr the WBC World Cup Super Flyweight Championship.
Unbeaten Juan Carlos “Miniburgos” Burgos (24-0, 16 KOs), WBC CABOFE Featherweight Champion, goes against Filipino upset specialist Joan de Guai in a 12-round match for the WBC Youth Featherweight Championship.
A pair of 25-year-olds from Mexico City, WBC CABOFE lightweight champ Daniel “Tremendo” Estrada (23-1-1, 19 KOs) and WBC Continental Americas title-holder Rey Sanchez, square-off in a 12-round match for the WBC Silver Lightweight Championship.
WBC Youth Lightweight champion Ramon “Nino de Oro” Ayala (18-1-1, 8 KOs), a 21-year-old Mexico protégé of another Mexican fighting icon, Marco Antonio Barrera, defends his crown against Panamanian gatekeeper Armando “El Policia” Cordova, former NABA super featherweight champion, in a 10-rounder.
News Flash
August 2010JOSESITO LOPEZ BELONGS!
Lopez Beats Cordova.
The question asked before his fight last Friday on ESPN2 "Friday Night Fights" was whether or not Riverside's own Josesito Lopez (27-3, 15 KOs) belonged with the current crop of jr. welterweight world contenders?
Dan Goossen, co-promoter of Lopez, along with Thompson Boxing, said it best: "Josesito stole the show Friday and earned his right to be considered with the other world contenders. He belongs!"
The WBC #8 rated super lightweight (140 lbs), Lopez defeated his once beaten opponent Marvin Cordova, Jr. in a hard fought eight round unanimous decision.
"It was a tough fight and throughout each round I felt confident in my skills both offensively and defensively," said Lopez.
"I believe if it was scheduled for 10, I would have stopped him."
Lopez' skillful performance proved that there is a spot for him amongst the likes of Devon Alexander, Amir Khan, and stablemates Michael Dallas Jr. and Timothy Bradley, Jr.
"I recently came to the conclusion that I'm a tough and talented fighter but to succeed it will take me working hard, which I will continue to do, while my promoters work together on securing a future fight against one of my peers".
News Flash
August 2010Vlad Biosse Headlines!
CES Show Sept. 3 At Twin River Event Center, RI.
The next generation of New England boxers, led by undefeated Providence super middleweight Vladine Biosse, will be showcased Friday night, Sept. 3 on the “Labor Daze” card, presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc. (CES), at the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, RI.
Biosse (7-0, 4 KOs), a former University of Rhode Island football player, is coming off a sensational nationally-televised win against “Irish” Joey McCreedy in which the Cape Verdean native won an 8-round decision for the New England super middleweight title.
In his first main event, Biosse will defend his title against an opponent to be determined in an 8-round bout.
“CES is constantly developing talent and reloading its stable.” CES president Jimmy Burchfield said.
“This show will be the first punch landed for the Labor Day weekend. Fights fans attending ‘Labor Daze’ will have an opportunity to watch some of tomorrow’s stars. Vladine is headed to greatness. We believe he has all of the needed skills and intangibles to capture a world title in the future. Many of the other local fighters are going to make a lot of noise in this business, too.”
In a pair of 4-round bouts, Fall River (MA) super welterweight Dustin Reinhold (2-1, 2 KOs) faces Providence’s pro-debuting Rameil Shelton, of Providence, while Woonsocket (RI) super middleweight Joe Gardner (5-1-1, 1 KO) faces New Bedford’s (MA) Eric Pinarreta (2-4, 2 KOs).
Also on the undercard in 4-round bouts are unbeaten Providence super lightweight Jesus Caro (5-0, 4 KOs) vs. Bryan Abraham (2-3-2, 2 KOs), of Schenectady, NY; New Bedford (MA) super lightweight Jonathan Vasquez (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Ryan Batt (0-1), of Lockport, NY; Providence firefighter and cruiserweight Eric Estrada (1-0, 1 KO); Barnstable (MA) heavyweight Jesse Barboza (3-1, 3 KOs) and Holyoke (MA) lightweight Pablo Rivera and Providence super welterweight James Smith in their pro debuts. All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets for “Labor Daze,” priced at $35.00, $50.00, $75.00 and $125.00, are available to purchase by calling CES (401.724.2253/2254), going online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at Twin River’s Players Club booth at Twin River, or any TicketMaster location. Ticket-buyers who purchase a VIP seat will also receive a 25%-off coupon for Fred & Steve's Steakhouse, valid for 30 days following the fight.
Contact CES (401.724.2253/2254/www.cesboxing.com) or the Twin River Event Center (877.82.RIVER/ www.twinriver.com) for more information. Doors open at 6:00PM/ET, first bout at 7:00 PM/ET.
(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Labor Daze.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied at all times by an adult and they must enter through the West entrance.)
News Flash
August 2010LORENZO V STURM!
GIOVANNI LORENZO: I WILL CRUSH FELIX STURM IN SIX.
Middleweight contender Giovanni Lorenzo is spending the scorching hot summer days training in New York City with one goal in mind, crushing WBA champion Felix Sturm on Saturday, September 4th in Cologne, Germany.
Said Lorenzo: “My preparation has been going great; I am in the best shape of my career, physically and mentally. I am so hungry to prove that I am the best middleweight in the world.”
“Sturm has always been protected by Universum and ducked fights against tough middleweights like myself, now the world will see him getting destroyed, I am certain he will not be able to hold my shots for more than six rounds. I will break him down and crush him.”
The 29 year old Lorenzo, 29-2-1 (21KO’s), previously traveled to Germany in September 2009, challenging Sebastian Sylvester for the IBF Middleweight Title, losing a very close, controversial, split decision.
Continued Lorenzo, “I am the uncrowned champion at 160, since I was robbed in Germany last time. This time I will not leave it in the hands of the judges. I can’t wait for September 4th to come; I will be the new WBA champion of the world.”
Sturm, 33-2-1 (14KO’s), won the WBA title from Javier Castillejo in April 2007 and has defended it seven times, most recently winning a unanimous decision over Khoren Gevor on July 11, 2009 by unanimous decision.
A native of the Dominican Republic, Lorenzo is promoted by TKO Boxing Promotions and managed by Kurt Emhoff and Rich Ryan.
News Flash
August 2010Berto V Aydin!
WBC Orders Welterweight Championship.
The WBC has officially ordered Lou DiBella and ARENA-CEO Ahmet Öner to start free negotiations for the welterweight world championship between Andre Berto and Selcuk Aydin. Berto won the title in June 2008 by knocking out Miguel Angel Rodriguez; Selcuk Aydin has captured the WBC Silver Championship by outscoring Ionut „Jo-Jo Dan“ Ion in Istanbul. Both fighters are unbeaten.
Berto has won all of his 26 pro-fights (20 kos), Selcuk Aydin scored 20 wins in as many fights (including 15 kos).
„Andre Berto is one of the biggest names in US boxing today“, said Ahmet Öner.
„He is one of the faces of HBO. This is the chance Selcuk has been waiting and fighting for. I’m sure it will be a hell of a fight.“
„I have been waiting for more than a year to face Berto“, adds Selcuk Aydin.
„I want to prove that I am one of the best welterweight fighters in the world today.“
The open negotiation period for the fight ends on September 17th. If no agreement is reached it will go to purse bid at the WBC headquarters in Mexico.
One week ago Selcuk Aydin and promoter Ahmet Öner had been invited by Don King to his big show in St. Louis. Öner and King agreed on co-promoting Aydin in the USA.
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