Boxing Hall of Fame Editors John and Alex Rinaldi present the fans of pugilism with a rich and extraordinary array of stories, videos, cartoons, comics, book reviews, columns, photos, and writings from their award-winning staff for the mutual enjoyment and benefit to the serious Boxing Fan!

The Website where Boxing and its Legends come to Life!

 

 

 

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Amazing Fight Purses for Oleksandr Usyk vs. Tyson Fury 2 

For anyone out there that believes the UFC is a bigtime sport, just look at what the UFC earns compared to boxing. The highest paid UFC purse was a total of around $6 million, which is very deceiving, considering that most fights average around $200,000 to $500,000. Boxing on the other hand pays millions of dollars for every big fight that gets aired, especially the championship fights.

Case in point is the upcoming huge heavyweight rematch bout between Ukrainian heavyweight champion of the world and former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury. it has been reported that Oleksandr Usyk is set to earn a record-breaking purse for his rematch against Tyson Fury. The total purse for the Usyk-Fury rematch is expected to be $190 million, with a 60/40 split in favor of the winner of the first bout.

Oleksandr Usyk (C) vs Tyson Fury 2 (WBC, WBO and WBA heavyweight titles)

Serhii Bohachuk vs Ishmael Davis (super-welterweight)

Moses Itauma vs Demsey McKean (heavyweight)

Johnny Fisher vs Dave Allen (heavyweight)

Dennis McCann (C) vs Peter McGrail (European super-bantamweight title)

Isaac Lowe vs Lee McGregor (featherweight)

 

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The USA Boxing News Book Review

McFarland & Company, Inc., Publishers

 (www. mcfarlandpub.com) – 203 p

Reviewed by John Rinaldi and Alex Rinaldi

It is the holiday time of the year again. For those looking for that one great book to purchase for the boxing fan in your family for Christmas and Hanukkah, look no further than Boxing Hall of Fame writer Mark Allen Baker’s recent tome, Johnny Kilbane – The BOXING LIFE of a FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPION.  

If one would ask a boxing buff, which fighter held the World’s Featherweight Championship the longest, names like Willie Pep, Sandy Sadler (#4 on list – holding for 6 years, 4 months and 13 days), Salvador Sanchez, Danny Lopez, Alexis Arguello, Kid Chocolate, or Henry Armstrong would pop up, but surprisingly those are all the wrong answers. Instead, clocking in at 11 years, 3 months and 24 days with the World’s Featherweight title belt was Johnny Kilbane. Johnny defeated Abe Attell (#3 on the list with 8 years, 5 months and 19 days) on February 22, 1912, and held on to the crown until being brutally stopped in 6 rounds by Eugene Criqui on June 2, 1923.

In his latest book, Mr. Baker, in his famous explorative narrative, takes the readers from Kilbane’s impoverished background to his rise as one of the highest paid athletes on the planet.

There does not appear to be a sportswriter in the field today who thoroughly researches a subject better than Mark Allen Baker. The author treats his subject as sunken treasure from a long-disappeared pirate ship. Mr. Baker is the diver who repeatedly goes deep into dark waters to excavate whatever nuggets and boxing lore that are available. Once again, with the story of Johnny Kilbane, the readers are presented with a chest full of boxing riches.

Johnny held his title throughout a period where many states had a “No-Decision” law where if the fight did not end in a knockout, the decision would be a no-decision affair, where various newspapers would give their opinion on who was the victor in the fight. What the system did was if a champion defended his title and wound up going the distance, even though he may have clearly lost the fight, he would still retain his laurels on a no-decision.

No-decision bouts were great for fighters like Kilbane, who had a solid jaw and was slick enough to last anywhere from 4 to 10 rounds on his feet to lengthen the time he held his championship. In his career, Kilbane had an incredible number of 78 no-decision verdicts.  As is his consummate, investigative style, Baker goes into details of all of the bouts, stating who the press gave the various “wins” to.

Through all the new changes the sport was going through, Mr. Baker writes in a heartfelt way describing how Kilbane persevered in his career, even after experiencing the early death of a beloved young daughter. Johnny was a family man and thought often of his wife and children and, in turn, made his decisions on how best his family can benefit financially from his title reign.

Fights such as Johnny’s battles with the immortal Abe Attell are vividly described in the thrilling pages of this book. For instance, on October 24, 1910, at the Hippodrome in Kansas City, MO, Kilbane met Attell for the first time and lost a 20-round decision. After that loss, Kilbane went on to engage in 16 more fights, including splitting a pair of grueling bouts against the dangerous Mexican Joe Rivers, before finally getting matched again with Abe Attell at the Arena in Vernon, CA.

 It is that fight particularly where the Author paints the Kilbane-Attell rematch with such colorful strokes that the fight comes to life in a detailed, thrilling fashion.

 Afterwards Mr. Baker gives both fighters’ reactions to the decision. Kilbane remarked, “Attell fought as foul and dirty as a man, well, can and not take an ax! When he saw himself going, he became desperate and fouled me three times – then butted me in the face. His seconds put something on his shoulders and neck, which were intended to make me groggy. I am glad I won the championship, but I am sorry I even entered a fight with a man who would use such tactics.”

 “I led the fight all the way and was the aggressor from bell to bell, said the defeated Attell. “If anything, the advantage was in my favor because when I bored in Kilbane was holding me half the time. I felt sure of the decision in case the fight went the limit because I depended on what Eyton (the referee) said. Will I fight Kilbane again? You bet I will. I’ll lick him too if the fight can be pulled off where I can get an even break.”

Although Kilbane and Attell would sign up to fight on three different occasions in 1913 and 1915, the two would never fight again.

Besides the Attell fights, the Author takes the reader on the course and life of the busy champion Kilbane as he faces the likes of Charley White, Johnny Dundee, Knockout Brown, Eddie O’Keefe, Richie Mitchell, George “KO” Chanee and Rocky Kansas.

Of particular interest are the pair of fights against lightweight legend Benny Leonard, who engaged in a 10-round no-decision bout with Kilbane on April 29, 1915, at the Atlantic Gardens in NYC, and their brutal July 25, 1917, rematch at Philadelphia’s Shibe Park, where Leonard KO’d Kilbane in three rounds.

Those are simply graphic and wonderful stories to read. The book contains one fabulous segment after another throughout Kilbane’s fascinating fistic career.

Following his loss to Criqui in 1923, Kilbane ended his career with a 48-6-7-78 ND (24 KO’s) record.

Unfortunately, for many sports heroes at the time, the 1929 Stock Market Crash and subsequent Depression, evaporated most of Kilbane’s ring earnings.  Through it all, Kilbane kept his house and possessions, and made a later career by refereeing fights, giving exhibitions, making personal appearances, and engaging in politics. He remained a living legend up until his death in 1957 at the age of 68.

Mark Allen Baker writes wonderfully about a man who was a champion in and out of the ring.

The Author also takes the readers through World War I training camps, where Kilbane was an inspired bayonet instructor for the troops.

Just like other books written by Mr. Baker, once again, a reader will come off an expert of a long-since forgotten battler and time as boxing ghosts from yesteryear jump off the pages to resurrect the exploits of one of the greatest and wily featherweights who ever laced on a pair of gloves.

This enjoyable book is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED and will make a great Hanukkah, Birthday, or Christmas present and

Other outstanding books by Mark Allen Baker include TONY CANZONERI – The Boxing Life of a Five-Time World Champion, WILLIE PEP – A Biography of the 20^th Century’s Greatest Featherweight, The Fighting Times of Abe Attell, LOU AMBERS – A Biography of the World Lightweight Champion and Hall of Famer, The World Colored Heavyweight Championship, 1876-1937, CONNECTICUT BOXING – THE FIGHTS, THE FIGHTERS AND THE FIGHT GAME, Between the Ropes at Madison Square Garden, and Battling Nelson – The Durable Dane.

Mr. Baker’s books can be purchased in paperback and Kindle versions on Amazon, in paperback and Nook Book versions at Barnes and Noble bookstores, Barnes and Noble’s website, and at bookstores around the globe.

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On December 12, at Legends Casino Hotel Roy Jones Jr. Will Become the First Head Trainer To Have Five Boxers on One Card

 Jones will be Mic’d Up Throughout Streamed Live Worldwide on BLK Prime

Story by Tyrone Cartwright

TOPPENISH, WASHINGTON, December 2024 — Roy Jones Jr., consensus No. 1 Pound-4-Pound boxer in the 90’s and early 2000’s, will have five of his stable of boxers on the December 12 card in the Great Pacific Northwest at Legends Casino Hotel.

“I am so excited to be back in Toppenish, Washington at Legends Casino Hotel, live on December 12, where my man Greg Fritz is a great host,” said Jones. “It’s going to be a great show, so don’t miss it!”

Roy will be in the corner for all five of his fighters. The five fighters train, along with the rest of his large stable, in his gym on his farm in Pensacola. It’s the same gym Roy trained in throughout his professional career. These kids are blessed to learn from the legend.

This historic event, promoted by Roy Jones Jr Boxing, will be streamed live on BLK Prime for the modest price of $12.99.

Claudia Trejos will be calling the action and Jones will be analyst on the live stream during the fights from the corner.

Tickets for the December 12 boxing card, priced at $60, $50 and $40, are on sale now and can be purchased in person at the Legends Casino Gift Shop or on-line at Ticketmaster by clicking HERE Doors open at 6 pm and first bell will be at 7 pm PT.

In the main event, Shady Gamhour (13-1, 9 KOs) whose main residence is in Sweden while not training in Pensacola, will fight in a ten-round super middleweight bout against Devontae McDonald (6-4, 2 KOs). McDonald resides in nearby Wenatchee, Washington.

 In the co-main event, Dominique “Lil Jalapeño” Roundtree (10-0, 6 KOs) will battle Jose Antonio Sampedro (13-2, 7 KOs) in an eight-round bout for the vacant NBA Intercontinental Featherweight Championship. Roundtree, who trains with Jones, is from Augusta Georgia, while Sampedro hails from Queretaro, Mexico.

“I know the last time you saw Lil Jalapeno he put on a great show,” said Jones. “And guess what, I’m bringing him back, and he’s fighting for a title and he’s got a very tough fighter on his hands in Sampedro.”

Undefeated and the pride on Central Washington, Andrew Murphy (8-0, 5 KOs) from Yakima, Washington, just a short drive from Legends Casino Hotel, will make his return from a shoulder injury. Murphy, who is promoted by Haney Promotions, will fight in a six-round super middleweight bout against Andres Martinez (5-2, 3 KOs).

“Andrew Murphy is back from injury,” commented trainer Roy Jones. “He’ll be back at Legends and back in the ring.”

In a four-round lightweight bout, Chris Young (1-0, 1 KO) from Hattiesburg, Mississippi will battle Anthony Curtis (3-17, 2 KOs) from Butte, Montana.

“Chris Young is a hybrid,” said Jones. “He is a mixture between a Roy Jones Jr and Mike Tyson. How can you put that together? He did, so don’t miss this fight.”Jones’ fifth fighter on the card, James Wilkins (12-3, 6 KOs) from Dallas, Texas will fight in a eight-round junior lightweight bout against Guadalajara Mexico’s Dennis Contreras (24-15-1, 22 KOs).

ROY JONES JR. was world champion at middleweight, super middleweight, light heavyweight (undisputed) and in 2003 became the first former middleweight world champion to become world heavyweight champion in over 106 years when he beat John Ruiz to win the title. He was the first boxer EVER to make his professional debut at junior middleweight to go on to become heavyweight champion of the world. As Undisputed Light Heavyweight World Champion, Jones made seven successful defenses. Roy was the consensus No. 1 Pound-for-Pound boxer from mid 90’s thru the early 2000’s.

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Holiday Fight Night 3” to Showcase NYC boxing talent

Streaming live Dec. 17th on DAZN from Sony Hall in historic Times Square  

Story by Salvador Ramirez

NEW YORK CITY (December 2024) – The holiday season won’t be quite the same this year in historic Times Square on Tuesday night, December 17, when Boxing Insider Promotions returns to Sony Hall’s intimate surroundings for a special evening of professional Boxing on Broadway. 

Several of the Big Apple’s most promising and popular fighters will be in action on the “Holiday Fight Night 3” card, which will showcase them worldwide on a DAZN live stream.

“In October of 2022, we started this local club boxing series at Sony Hall in Times Square and this is now our 10th show there,” said Boxing Insider Promotions promoter Larry Goldberg, the 2024 NYSBHOF (New York State Boxing Hall of Fame) Promoter of the Year. “We have a great local card featuring the best young prospects and future stars in New York in an action-packed club setting that can’t be duplicated. I am excited to feature top fighters such as Andy Dominguez, Kurt Scoby, Nisa Rodriguez, and Jacob Solis live on DAZN.”

The eight round co-main event pits popular New York City lightweight Kurt Scoby (15-1, 13 KOs) against his Nicaraguan opponent, Bryan Jimenez (17-1, 10 KOs), in what is expected to be a highly entertaining and competitive match. The heavy-handed Scoby’s most notable victory to date is a second-round knockout of Philadelphia’s Hank Lundy (31-13-1) last year.  Former FEDECARIBE champion Jimenez, 27, is riding an eight-fight win streak into his NYC debut fight.

In the other co-main event, two flyweights will square-off in an eight-rounder, Andy Dominguez Velasquez (11-1, 6 KOs) and fellow Mexico native Angel Geovanny “Rayito” Meza Morales (8-2-3, 6 KOs). Velasquez is a two-time New York Golden Gloves Champion, while upset-minded Morales has never been stopped.

Another celebrated amateur, New York Police officer Nisa Rodriguez (2-0, 0 KOs), is in her first scheduled six-rounder versus Georgia middleweight Melody Popravak (2-1-1. 1 KO).  Rodriguez is an eight-time New York Daily News Golden Gloves, six-time Metro Championships, two-time Empire State, and Caribbean and Central Americano gold medalist.  Married with three children, Nisa works with youths in a program at Cops & Kids Gym in Brooklyn. 

Long Island (NY) super middleweight Donte Layne (5-0, 5 KOs), a celebrated amateur boxer, faces Pachino “Chino” Hill (8-7-2, 6 KOs) in a six-round match presented in association with Overtime Boxing. Layne, 21, captured gold medals at the 2022 and 2021 USA National Championships and 2022 National Golden Gloves Tournament.

Also slated to fight in separate bouts against opponents to soon be announced are exciting Wyandanch (NY) junior welterweight Terell Bostic (13-2, 2 KOs), popular NYC middleweight Jacob Riley Solis (5-0, 5 KOs), and promising Brooklyn lightweight Koby Khalil Williams (3-0, 2 KOs).

The card is subject to change.

Tickets are on sale and may be purchased online at https://www.ticketweb.com/event/boxing-insider-fight-night-sony-hall-tickets/14011593.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET with the first bout at 7:30 p.m. ET.

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OVERSEAS BOXING MATCHES

By Per-Ake Persson

 

 

Promoter Bettina Palle celebrates 25 years in boxing with a fun fight card in Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen, Denmark. Promoter Bettina Palle celebrated 25 years as a promoter with a show at Frederiksberg Hallerne and WBO #1-ranked featherweight Sara Mahfoud (15-2) in a fight for the vacant WBO International title against WBO #2, Brazilian Danila Ramos (13-3).

It became a messy fight with no highlights where Mahfoud was off to a good start but where Ramos came on stronger in the later rounds. But Ramos was seldom effective, and Mahfoud was too passive. At the end it was scored 96-94 twice and 95-95. 

Super middleweight Oliver Zaren (15-0) was featured in an eight rounder and impressed in taking apart tough Mexican Carlos Gallego Montijo (14-9) who took a steady beating that got worse and worse until the referee stepped in and stopped it at 1:12 of the sixth. Montijo was never down or hurt though so there are some question marks around Zaren’s punching power.

Cruiser prospect Hamza Hussein (8-0) TKO’d Argentinian Camilo Castagno (4-8) who was retired by his corner at 1:12 of the sixth and final round. Hussein, a southpaw, came out fast and stunned Castagno with a barrage of punches. Hamza was, however, forced to pace himself but hurt and floored Castagno in the sixth. The Argentinian got up but was under heavy fire and the towel came in.

The three heavyweights on the bill, Mathias Hansen (6-0), and debutants Genti Morina and Nicolay Piddobnyy all won on first round knockouts over overweight and overmatched Bosnians.

Hansen took out Nemanja Kerezovic (1-6), two-time Nordic and Swedish champ Morina wiped out fellow debutant Julijan Savic and Piddobnyy whacked out Marko Colic (7-10),

Welterweight Viktor Ramon (4-0) knocked out Moldovan debutant Catalin Mihalache with a left hook to the body early in the first round.

Veteran amateur star Frederik Lundgaard Jensen, a southpaw, made his pro debut and looked against durable Moldovan Alexandr Polinchevichi (2-3-1) and won on scores of 40-36 twice and 40-35.

The best fight of the fight was the show starter between Welshman Mark Davies (7-0) and Ukrainian Anatoli Burdiian (5-5-1) won by Davies on scores of 59-55 twice and 58-56. Davies controlled the action behind his jab but walked into solid left hooks from Burdiian. Davies was badly cut by the right in the sixth and final round after an accidental clash of heads. 

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“Scrappy Time” returns this Saturday

World Super Flyweight Contender John “Scrappy” Ramirez seeking Redemption with added experience  

Story by Leonard Carmichael

LOS ANGELES (December 2024, 2024) – Fighting this Saturday night for the first time since he suffered the initial loss of his pro career last April, super flyweight contender John “Scrappy” Ramirez (13-1, 9 KOs) will be seeking redemption in a 10-round match versus undefeated Ephraim Bui (10-0, 8 KOs).

Ramirez vs. Bui is on a Golden Boy-show headlined by Alexis Rocha vs. Raul Curiel, streaming live on DAZN from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

On his mercurial rise in boxing, despite a limited amateur career and including numerous bouts during Covid-19, the fast-rising, No. 1 ranked “Scrappy” lost a 12-round decision in Brooklyn to veteran Fernando David Jimenez (16-1, 5-1, 11 KOs) for the vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) Super Flyweight title.

It was simply a case of too much, too soon for Ramirez, who now fully comprehends the maturation process in pro boxing.

“I’m a much more seasoned fighter now,” Ramirez said. “I’ve been around the block, going 12-rounds in my last fight, and I’m more patient and calculated, knowing how to set things up. I know I have the skills to be world champion, but I lacked experience that I now have. I know what to expect and I just need to follow the game plan and be me. I got it!

“The Jimenez fight is in the past. I’m a firm believer in learning from situations. I’ve played other sports and lost. In a way, it is a blessing for me. I have a great team behind me and good support. I’ve learned from the loss but I’m not thinking about that fight anymore. I got my lesson and learned from it for bigger and better things that are coming for me.”

A gym rat, Ramirez isn’t concerned about his eight-months out of the ring, largely because he continued working hard to additionally develop his craft, barely taking a break.

“It’s a problem if you just sit and aren’t active,” WBA No. 7 rated Ramirez spoke about his inactivity, “but I used the time to improve and for personal growth. I used it wisely to better my craft. I’m optimistic; I’m going to end the year with a bang. I always look at the light through the dark. I have everything it takes to become world champion.”

“Scrappy” Ramirez is a charter member of 3 Point Management (3 PM), which has a growing stable of gifted boxers including WBA & WBO Cruiserweight World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (47-1, 30 KOs), WBA No. 7-rated super middleweight Darius “DFG” Fulgham (13-0, 11 KOs), former WBA Inter-Continental Light Heavyweight Champion Kareem “Supreme” Hackett (12-1, 6 KOs), and German junior welterweight Simon “Saucy” Vollmer (6-0, 2 KOs).

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Story by TJ Delafave

LOS ANGELES (December 2024)–Wise Owl Boxing has announced the signing of Mexican Olympian Briandra Tamara Cruz. “I’m thrilled to announce our partnership with Briandra Tamara Cruz, an incredible athlete whose skill, determination, and dedication to the sport of boxing are at the highest level. Briandra’s achievements, including her Olympic journey, speak volumes about her potential. We aim to elevate her career to new heights and continue showcasing her talent on a global stage. This is just the beginning of an exciting journey, and I’m honored to be a part of it.” said Mark Habibi of Wise Owl Boxing.

“I am excited and ready for 2025! It should be a great year. I am focused on my career and signing with Wise Owl Boxing is a good opportunity for me. I believe that I can fight for a world title quickly. I want to win all the titles at 147 pounds. It doesn’t really matter who is in my way,” said Cruz.

“Briandra has accomplished a lot in her amateur career and proudly represented her country of Mexico in the 2020 Olympics. I’m excited to be managing her now so we can showcase her to the entire world” said co-manager, Angel Lopez of Wise Owl Boxing. Cruz, 25, competed in the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo and has a professional record of 1-0. Cruz had an amateur record of 62-8 and was eight-time national champion spanning four weight divisions.

Cruz won several gold medals in international competitions such as the International Cup, La Romana International Cup, National Elite and Quadrangular Tournaments The Mazatlan native competed against Imane Khelif in 2022 and lost against her in Guadalajara. Khelif is the competitor who won the Gold medal in Paris in the 2024 Olympic games and recently it was reported she has internal testicles and an XY chromosome.

“I was the 1st woman to go to the Olympics and represent Mexico and I can’t wait to bring a world title back home. I want to thank all the fans and people that have been behind me. The best of me is yet to come” finished Cruz.

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Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame Inducts 18^th Class of 2024

Story by Kirk Lang

Photos by Laila Lang

Boxing fans were treated to a full day of fistic activity at Mohegan Sun on Nov. 2, as – for the first time ever – the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame’s Induction Gala, which kicked off at 2 p.m., was followed by an evening of fights in the Mohegan Sun Arena.  

In the headline bout of promoter Jimmy Burchfield’s 13-bout card, New London-based Alejandro Paulino passed the biggest test of his career in winning a 10-round majority decision over Toka Kahn Clary in a true crossroads fight. Paulino was honored last year by the Hall as its “Professional Boxer of the Year.”  Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame Vice President Robin Hayes, who organized the induction gala, and served as timekeeper for the fights, said of the “one-two” combination, “This was a great opportunity for the board to refresh the induction event and try something new for our longtime supporters.”  

She added, “Many attendees shared how much they appreciated the earlier start and the option to follow it up with an exciting night of fights. We’re already looking forward to 2025, and we’ll be discussing how to build on this year’s success for next year’s dinner.” 

This year saw six individuals inducted into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame, as well as six honored with various annual awards. In addition, former four-time heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield, who attended as a guest of inductee Mike Mazzulli, was presented a special award for his illustrious career. 

The six inducted as part of the Hall’s 18^th annual induction ceremony were Mohegan Tribe Athletic Director Mike Mazzulli; veteran judge Frank Lombardi; boxing trainer Hector Rosario; George Phillips, who has been a referee, a judge, a timekeeper and was also the team manager for the 2006 Region Junior Olympic squad that won a national title; former IBU, EBA and USBF lightweight champion Gary “The Tiger” Balletto; and boxer Luis “KO King” Rosa, Jr., who lost his life in an auto accident in January 2018.  

Rosa was a promising contender whose record stands at 26-1. His lone loss, which was also his last fight, was a split decision to Yuandale Evans for the vacant WBC Continental Americas featherweight championship. Then-Showtime commentator Steve Farhood called the bout “one of the best main events we’ve had in the 16 years of the ShoBox series.”  Rosa’s life was cut short just two months later. 

Accepting for Rosa Jr. was his father – who was also his trainer – and his mother Marilyn. Rosa’s parents were accompanied on stage by their surviving children, a daughter and son who were Rosa Jr’s younger siblings.  

 “I want to thank the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame for helping join our family in keeping our son’s memory alive,” said Marilyn. Two-thousand-four-hundred-and-eighty-four days ago on January 14, 2018, our family’s life as we knew it changed to never be the same again. My family unit of five was physically disrupted and altered. The only way I can begin to describe the pain of the loss of a child is comparing it to having a limb amputated in cold blood.” 

She added, “The day we received the news that Luis Angel Rosa, to many known as the “KO King,” would no longer walk the Earth, felt as if someone cut my right arm off of my body and left it bleeding to death. Physically, thankfully, I have all of my limbs, but emotionally I have been dismembered.” 

Marilyn talked about the struggle of having to go on with everyday life, and be strong for others, as she dealt with a fresh loss. She surmised what her son might have said if he was around to see himself inducted into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.  

“He would have probably said these words, and I quote, ‘Thank you everyone. I am humbled to receive this award, and I am looking forward to my next fight so that I can show you all why I deserve to be in the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.’ You see, Luis was a warrior, a true combatant, that enjoyed and appreciated the beauty of The Sweet Science. He was a gentleman outside the ring, but if you were in that square against him, his mission was to make you quit and take you out.” 

The other Rosa family members seemed on the verge of tears as Marilyn spoke, but they held it together. When she finished, the family donated a pair of trunks and gloves from Rosa’s career to Hall President John Laudati.  For many, Marilyn’s words, and the emotion behind them, were the most memorable part of the evening.  

“Luis Rosa Jr’s mother gave an emotional speech when accepting his induction into the Hall of Fame,” said Mariano Agmi, when asked to cite the best memory of the gala.  

Author Mark Allen Baker added, “Our dinner was more than an induction. It was a cherished memory steeped in gratitude and love; moreover, special moments between a father and a son (Mark Mazzulli’s father was called up to induct him), between a love lost and a loving family (Luis Rosa, Jr.) and between a sport and the special individuals it creates (every award winner).” 

Baker added, “I enjoyed every presentation but the award presentations to Luis Rosa Jr. and Gary Balletto really stood out for the emotions it exuded.”  

Balletto was an action-packed fighter who tried to knock out everyone he went up against. Boxing to a points win was not his style. He also thrilled crowds with victory flips and walking across the ring on his hands. But times have changed.  Balletto is now reliant on an electric wheelchair to get around. Eleven years ago, while showing one of his children a gymnastic move in his backyard, he landed wrong and ended up paralyzed.  Balletto’s former promoter, Jimmy Burchfield, officially inducted him and everyone inside the Earth Ballroom at Mohegan could tell Burchfield still holds Balletto in high record.  

“Believe me when I tell you,” said Burchfield, “My man, Gary Balletto, this is someone very special, because Gary is a very special person. He made his pro debut in 1996 at 20 years ago.” 

After talking about certain moments of Balletto’s career, including when he knocked an opponent through the ropes and into the laps of ESPN commentators Teddy Atlas and Joe Tessitore, Burchfield then touched on Gary’s injury and his perseverance.  

 “Gary did not just take what happened to him and just give up,” said Burchfield. “It’s amazing. He runs three businesses. He drives by himself. He’s out on these jobs at 7, 8 O’Clock in the morning.” 

He described the day that changed Balletto’s life forever and then added, “He has fought much,much harder than he’s ever fought in the ring and Gary gave his all in the ring  any time that he fought, so with that, I have never been prouder of any athlete that I have ever represented in my life than this recipient of the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame induction, Gary “Tiger” Balletto.” 

After Balletto made his way up a ramp to center stage as “Eye of The Tiger” played on the speakers, he said “Thank You” before Burchfield chimed in, “Isn’t he good looking, too?” to which Balletto replied, with a big smile, “Thanks Jimmy. My biggest fan in the world, not just my promoter.”  

Balletto, who also competed on the reality TV series, The Contender, at the end of his career, acknowledged all of the fellow inductees in the room, thanked his supporters and added, “To be a boxer my whole life and to be inducted into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame was not something I expected at all, but it certainly makes all the punches I took worth it.” 

He later said, “I know the way you guys look at me today is not how you used to see me fight in the ring, walking on my hands, showing off…I had a devastating injury eleven years ago, but don’t one person feel bad for me for one second. I live the best life. I’m incredibly blessed every single day…I enjoy life to the fullest and it’s never been better than now.” 

Balletto acknowledged his children at his table, his two grandchildren and a recent engagement to a wonderful woman he met in Italy. 

 “I know I look too young to be a grandfather, but I’m a proud papa,” he said. “They fill my heart every day. They’re the reason why I get up to live the best life in the world.”  

Balletto also gave a shout-out to his former trainer, team, and of course Burchfield, “who brought me to the stages I have fought on, including fighting on national TV 12 times.” 

“He has stood by me and has been alongside me my entire journey. I can’t thank you enough Jimmy,” said Balletto.  Jimmy would get the microphone again for the final words. 

“He’s an unbelievable father, an unbelievable grandfather and a friend to so many people,” he said. “Almost every day of his life he’s doing a friend some type of favor. Gary “Tiger” Balletto is a very, very special person and I love him very, very much and he knows I’m going to be his promoter for the rest of my life, but most of all, I’m going to be his friend forever as well.”  

There was also love in the building when Mike Mazzulli’s father, Armand, was given the honor of inducting his son into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.  Armand talked about disciplining him when he was younger, and specifically one example where he made him walk down and up the stairs 15 or 16 times until he did it properly.  

“I guess it worked,” he said, “Seeing how well he’s done.”  

In addition to being the director of the Mohegan Tribe Department of Athletic Regulation, Mazzulli is also the President of the Association of Boxing Commissions and Combative Sports, a post he has held since 2015. Mazzulli was humble about his beginnings. When ring announcer David Diamante, who served as the gala’s Master of Ceremonies, said Mazzulli’s initial involvement in boxing began in 1996 when he was assigned as an inspector for the Mohegan Tribe Athletic Department, Mazzulli modified that back story when he got to the stage. 

“David was very nice to say I was an inspector,” he said, “But I actually was the pee boy. I had to go around and get pee from the fighters, and that’s what I did!” 

In addition to calling Holyfield up to the podium – Evander talked about not quitting, and his mother imploring him not to quit after his first amateur loss –Mazzulli also called up a fighter not nearly as world famous, Israel “Pito” Cardona, the former USBA and NABF lightweight champion. Mazzulli said Cardona was looking to make a comeback some years ago, “and I talked to Dr. Alessi and Dr. Schwartz, and I said, ‘What do you think?’ They said, ‘Hey listen, I don’t know.’ I said ‘Well, if you’re concerned about him, I’m concerned about him.’ So I actually said, ‘Pito, you can’t fight.’ Well let’s just say Pito didn’t talk to me for two-and-a-half years. Right, Pito? Then we come to a dinner here and he comes up to me and says, ‘Commish, you know what? You saved my life. You saved my life.”

Cardona said of that time, “He stops my career. I wanted to beat him down. That was a blessing, because when it comes down to it, I love the sport of boxing but it comes with a price, and obviously I’m dealing with it. I have dementia because of the sport.”  

 “If I had fought that fight, I probably wouldn’t be here right now, because one more punch could have bene it, so I’m better for him doing it. Thank you.”  The most animated inductee of the night was probably George Phillips. Adults wouldn’t need energy drinks if they had a bit of what Phillips has. After Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame Vice President Peter Hary introduced him, Phillips said, “Thanks Pete for that wonderful introduction. I don’t know who the heck you were talking about, but I’ll take some of it.” 

Phillips thanked the Hall’s Board of Directors for the induction honor, he thanked family and friends who showed up to support him, but especially his wife Renee. Phillips said he began an avid fan of boxing after seeing a Sonny Liston fight during his youth. It also kicked off a passion for collecting boxing memorabilia.  

“The passion never really stopped,” said Phillips. “You should see our place. It should be on one of those hoarding shows.” George and Renee, in addition to many roles they’ve held in amateur and professional boxing, have been the curators of the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame Museum at Mohegan. 

“Renee and I helped our hoarding situation by donating many items from our personal collection,” said George Phillips. Not only have they donated much to the museum, they were also instrumental in pushing for a Hall space at the casino to “help commemorate Connecticut boxers and the rich history in our state.”  

Described as a jack of all trades in the induction program, Phillips has been a referee and a judge in the amateur ranks, was team manager for the 2006 Region 1 Junior Olympic squad that won a national title, has been a referee and judge in national championships and was voted best referee at the 2006 P.A.L. Championships. Phillips has also been a referee, timekeeper and judge at Mohegan Sun, Foxwoods and for the State of Connecticut.  

During his induction speech, he told one story about “when we won the 2006 national championship at the Junior Olympics in Michigan.” Halfway through the week, Phillips got a knock on his door at 3 a.m. The Olympic committee wanted to see him. Phillips was curious why, at 3 a.m. of all times. 

Apparently, one of his boxers tried to tie bed sheets together to lower himself down a university dormitory building to the girls’ floor. However, the girls pulled the sheets and left him stuck outside.  

“I was trying to explain why my boxer is doing this,” said Phillips. “Well, nobody let him in of course. We went on the next day, he was the last bout. We went on to win the national championships. That’s how it’s done folks.” 

Also inducted was judge Frank Lombardi, who has judged more than 730 bouts. Early in his career, he got the opportunity to judge what many consider one of the greatest fights of all time, the first fight of the trilogy between Arturo Gatti and Micky Ward, which took place at Mohegan Sun in 2002.  

Lombardi thanked his family for being a great support system and thanked the late Steve Acunto as well. Acunto, among other roles, was the head boxing coach at Westchester Community College and with former heavyweight champion Rocky Marciano, co-founded the American Association for the Improvement of Boxing.  

Lombardi said Acunto introduced him to the sport of boxing and “he navigated me through my career as an official…and encouraged me to become a New York State official before I moved to Connecticut.”  

He added, “To my fellow officials, I would like to thank you for your camaraderie and friendship, which makes it special every time we get together.” Hector Rosario, who began training fighters in his garage before eventually settling in at the Manchester Ring of Champions Society gym (ROCS) in Manchester for the last 11 years, was truly honored to be inducted into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.  

 “I would like to thank God and my mom and dad looking down,” said the 62-year-old Rosario. “Paul Cichon, thank you for giving me the opportunity of working with the ROCS family, also, for being part of the team for the making of the next world champion, Mykquan Williams. I would also like to thank all family and friends for supporting me for the last 38 years in this adventure.”  

In the early portion of the gala, the following were honored with various awards: Nina Blue, who currently serves as the interim vice president of CT USA Boxing as well as its registration chairwoman, was honored as the Amateur Official of the Year; Glenn Feldman was honored as the William Hutt Official of the Year; 13-year-old Troy Moore, who in June won the USA Boxing National Junior Olympic title in the 132-pound division, was recognized as the Roland Roy Amateur Boxer of the Year; and Professional Boxer of the Year honors went to Mykquan Williams, who went 3-0 in 2024, which included a victory over previously unbeaten Luis Feliciano in January. Solomon Maye was honored with the George Smith Contribution to Boxing Award. He started the Get ‘Em Boy Boxing Club in New Haven just three years ago and he has already created a slew of amateur champions. Amare Foster is a two-time national Silver Gloves Champion. In addition, Amare Foster, Amir Foster and Troy Moore won national titles at the 2023 Silver Gloves Championships in Missouri and Amir Foster was named outstanding fighter at the event, which had 1,400 competitors. The Willie Pep Courage Award was awarded to the late Aaron Pelletier, a Connecticut state trooper who was struck and killed by a vehicle while making a traffic stop on Interstate 84 this past May. He was just 34. Accepting for Pelletier was his widow, Dominique. She was holding back tears, kept it brief but made sure to thank the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame Board of Directors for the honor.  

For Mariano Agmi, a publicist for CES Boxing and host of The Final Bell Podcast, this was his second induction gala.   “The venue was beautiful. The food was good and there were some great guests and personalities there. It was also great that it led into a big night of boxing at Mohegan Sun Arena.” 

He added, “It is very important for the states to honor the athletes, trainers, writers, promoters and other boxing personalities who made significant contributions to The Sweet Science in their region. It helps bring the sport alive and recognizes not just the big names, but also the hometown favorites who also keep the sport relevant locally and make a difference in the lives of so many kids.  

Questions/Comments: [email protected] 

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Middleweight Blazen Rocili Remains Unbeaten with Dominant Victory in San Antonio, TX

SAN ANTONIO, TX  (November 2024) – Undefeated 6’3” Filipino middleweight Blazen Rocili (8-0, 6 KOs), from Las Vegas, NV, continued his rise in the boxing world with a commanding unanimous decision victory over Da Priest Johnson (2-3) in a scheduled 4-round bout. The fight took place this past Saturday night at the Alzafar Shrine Auditorium in San Antonio, Texas.

Rocili displayed his skill and composure across all four rounds, using his long jab to control the distance while consistently pressing the action. The 22-year-old fighter showcased his relentless pace and ring IQ, leaving no room for doubt as the scorecards unanimously read 40-36 from all three judges.

“It felt amazing to fight out there in Texas,” said Rocili. “The fans were incredible, and I’m glad I could give them a show. Johnson was running the whole fight, but I stuck to my game plan—controlled the distance, applied the pressure, and stayed sharp. I’m ready for whoever is next.”

“Blazen looked fantastic tonight—he showed maturity and control throughout the fight,” said Andrew Bocanegra, Rocili’s manager. “We’re looking to get him back in the ring early next year against tougher competition. The goal is to keep building his experience and positioning him for bigger opportunities in 2025. The sky’s the limit for Blazen.”

Rocili’s win marks another step forward in his promising career, with fans and analysts alike keeping a close eye on the young Filipino talent as he continues his ascent in the middleweight division.

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Kansas super middleweight prospect 19-year-old Marco “El Tiburón” Romero 

Capped incredible 12-month boxing stretch

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (November 2024) — Kansas super middleweight prospect Marco “El Tiburón” Romero’s (4-0, 3 KOs) recent victory in Portland, Maine, capped an incredible 12-month stretch in which he was 13-0 overall in the ring, combining nine amateur matches and four pro bouts.

A promotional free agent, Romero destroyed Orlando “El Marro” Salgado (3-6, 2 KOs), blasting his way to sensational knockout – displaying the best left hook to the body in New England boxing since “Irish” Micky Ward – at the 1:21 mark of the opening round on a November 9^th card promoted by Bobby Russo’s Portland Boxing Club at Exposition Building.

“I’ve always had that power, especially that left hook to the body,” Romero commented. “I knew it was over when I hit him with that body shot and he grunted. I’ve worked a lot on that left hook to the head and body. I haven’t met Micky Ward, yet, but I watched the movie, and it was a great story.”

Because he hadn’t reached the mandatory age of 18, and his weight class (super middleweight) wasn’t included in 2024 Olympic boxing, Romero never seriously considered waiting for a shot at making the U.S. Olympic Team. Instead, his eyes were firmly focused on only one prize: to become a professional fighter.

Last December, Romero captured back-to-back champion honors at two of the most prestigious U.S. amateur events, USA Boxing National Championships and 2024 National Golden Gloves Tournament.  All told, in the last 12 months, he was 9-0 in amateur competition, including three at The Nationals and five at The Golden Gloves, in addition to his four pro wins to date for a combined 13-0 record, which includes four as a pro and eight in elite national amateur competition (and a win in one non-national event).

The Romero Plan never included The Olympics, primarily because of his age (he didn’t turn 19 until this past Thursday) and that his weight class wasn’t sanctioned at the Paris games. Not only did Marco close out his 12-months of extraordinary boxing with triumphs at The Nationals and The National Golden Gloves, but he was also named Most Outstanding Boxer (Golden Boy Award) at the latter competition.

His 12-month long, prearranged schedule called for a break from fighting during the holidays and he’s gearing up for Thanksgiving, Christmas and an expected life-changing 2025. He is tentatively scheduled to return to the ring during the first quarter of next year.

“Hey, we’re Mexicans. and we love food,” Romero remarked. “I’m going to enjoy the holidays with my family, but I’ll continue working hard to get better, even during the holidays.”

In Romero’s corner is a legendary 77-year-old John Brown, who is Marco’s head trainer and manager, the same role he played for world heavyweight champion Tommy Morrison (48-3-1, 42 KOs) from his amateur days through his first 39 pro fights, 1988 to 1993.

“I liked the fact Marco fought in front of a lot of people. 3,000 rabid fans,” Brown noted. “It was an exciting environment and down the road, he’s going to be in big fights, and it was good for him to get experience like he did in his last fight. He has a great left hook like so many Mexican fighters. I like that he’s going to have some time off after the last 12 months. We need to find him some durable sparring because that’s lacking in this area. I want him in real sparring sessions, not holding back, to know when to let it go. I don’t worry about his time off over the holidays because he’s always in the gym and he’s only 19.”

Other integral members of Romero’s corner are assistant coaches Sergio Flores and Marco’s father, Salvador Romero, who encouraged his son to become a boxer at the tender age of seven.

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OVERSEAS BOXING MATCHES

By Per-Ake Persson

 

Fight thrills from Germany, Denmark and Finland arenas

Story by Per-Ake Persson

November 23 – Heidelberg, Germany. When it was announced the big German-based Ukrainian Oleksandr Zakhozyi (19-1) would make a voluntary defense against aging Swiss veteran Arnold Gjergjaj it was viewed as an easy defense – and when Gjergjaj pulled with an injury and was eventually replaced by German-based Kosovan cruiserweight Labinot Xhoxhaj (2-0), Zakhozyi became an overwhelming favorite to retain the title.

However, while Xhoxhaj was floored by a left hook in the second round he was relentless in putting pressure on the much bigger champion, who at times resembled the poor inept Toro Moreno in The Harder They Fall film. He did in a way everything right to keep his opponent at bay but was much too slow and kept walking into the heavy hooks from Xhoxhaj and took a beating that got worse in the later rounds.  Zahozyi finally caved in and went down in the tenth round but somehow got up and lasted the distance only to lose on scores of 116-112, 115-111 and 116-110. 

The fight also underlined that the once prestigious EBU title now is a title avoided by the bigger names as it means high risk fights for a low reward.  With all due respect to both they would not have lasted long against some of the champions of the recent past such as Lennox Lewis, Wladimir Klitschko or Frank Bruno.

The event was promoted by SES and Blanko Sports.

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November 23 – Kolding, Denmark. Undefeated super middle Jakob Bank moved to 15-0 and won the vacant WBO Global title by stopping Ibo Maier (13-1) from Germany. in the headliner of TK Promotions show at the Forum. It was a one-sided fight, and Maier did not come out for the fifth round.

This was the third WBO sub-title Bank has won. He started out winning the Youth title, then the Euro-strap and now the Global. He is ranked #8 by WBO.

Heavyweight Kem Ljungquist (19-1) returned just four weeks after getting knocked out by Murat Gassiev but had an easy opponent in Argentinian Maximiliano Alejandro Sosa (12-10) who was floored in the second and was unable to come out for the third.

In an all-Danish matchup, cruisers Steffen Rorstrom (4-0) and Thorbjorn Boudigaard (4-2) clashed in a six-rounder. Rorostrom won a close majority decision on scores of 58-56 twice and 57-57.

Promising heavyweight Morten Givskov (4-0) outscored durable Pole Jakub Sosinski (8-8-1) and outclassed his opponent. At the end it was scored 60-53 twice and an amazing 60-49.

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November 16 – Espoo, Finland. Finnish Elite Boxing joined forces with teams from Sweden and Norway for an event billed as Scandinavian Showdown. At the first 13 fights were set to take place but when all was said and done ten fights went ahead – of mixed quality it must be said.

The main event, a cruiserweight clash over 6×3 was also the fight of the night and Cuban, based in Poland, Cristian Norges Lopez (6-3) outscored previously undefeated Keni Aliu (6-1). Lopez made a slow start but opened up in the second and landed cleanly with a number of punches but Aliu took it well and came back in the third and fourth as the Cuban seemed to have punched himself out. But Lopez came on strong in the final two rounds and Aliu was forced to hold on in the sixth. It was scored 58-56 both ways and 59-55 for Lopez.

In another upset, unheralded Estonian cruiserweight Madis Hiiet (3-2) won a split decision over Swedish champ Samo Jangirov (9-6-3). Again, it was scored 58-56 both ways and 59-55 for Hiiet, who used his longer reach well while Jangirov kept waiting and kept missing with his heavy punches.  

Middleweight Ilary Kujala (9-0) outscored Spaniard Ayoub Zakari (5-6-1) over eight rounds. It was scored 80-72 on all cards. Zakari suffered his sixth loss in a row and seemed content with lasting the distance and giving the Finn a decent workout.

Greek-Swedish heavyweight Marios Kollias (12-3-1 with around ten not recorded fights on the Greek circuit) knocked out overweight Georgian Tamaz Izoria (5-15) at 1:34 of the first round.

Super lightweight Elias “White Tiger” Okkonen (9-0-1) beat Latvian spoiler Dinars Skripkins (4-10-2) on points over six. Okkonen worked hard for his win but could never get Skripkins in any kind of trouble. It was scored 60-54 on all cards.

Tall Norwegian heavyweight Brage Lange Hansen (4-0) had target practice against Czech Evzen Velky (1-8) and stopped him in the very first round.

Light heavyweight Adrian Hagen, also from Norway, opened the show and stopped veteran Daniel Bazo (3-38-4) from the Czech Republic in the third round. Hagen is now 3-0.

The third Norwegian in the event, super lightweight Sayed Kazemi (3-0) floored Georgian Giorgi Kirimlishvili (0-2) twice and stopped him in the first round.

Finnish super lightweight debutants Sampo Sahlberg and Korede Lawrence fought their hearts in a heated four-rounder won by Sahlberg on scores of 40-36 twice and 39-37.

Swedish heavyweight Agit Bilge moved to 3-0 with TKO in the second round over 43-year-old Estonian Mait Metsis, now 1-10.

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World Boxing backs plan to create a new Confederation in Asia

 BANGKOK (November 2024) – World Boxing has welcomed the creation of a new Asian Confederation to represent and promote boxing in the region, marking a significant milestone for the sport. Mr. Pichai Chunhavajira, who recently stepped down from his role at the Asian Boxing Confederation (ASBC) following challenges in securing its independence from the International Boxing Association (IBA), has pledged his support to this groundbreaking initiative.

Boris van der Vorst, the President of World Boxing, hailed this development as a “historic moment” in the evolution of the sport. He said: “We are thrilled to take this step towards empowering boxing in Asia. We are confident that the new Asian boxing confederation will thrive and further elevate the sport in the region.”

The newly formed confederation has received strong support from the World Boxing community. Gennadiy Golovkin, Chair of the World Boxing Olympic Commission and a celebrated champion, warmly welcomed a new Asian boxing confederation.

Golovkin said: “It is a privilege to have a clean breakthrough organization for Asia. Asian Boxing will with dedication advance the sport in Asia and undoubtedly make a lasting impact.”

The formation of a new Asian confederation marks a new era for boxing in the region. It will bring together stakeholders with a shared commitment to the principles of independence, fairness, and ensuring that the interest of athletes is at the center of decision making.

World Boxing will collaborate with the new Asian boxing confederation to support its goals and ensure the continued success of boxing worldwide.

World Boxing was launched in April 2023.  On May 7, 2024, it held the first formal meeting with the IOC which signaled the start of formal collaboration aimed at establishing a pathway for boxing to remain in the Olympic Games. On September 26, 2024, World Boxing announced that it had set-up an Olympic Commission, chaired by President of the National Olympic Committee of Kazakhstan, Gennadiy Golovkin, to support the process of developing a pathway to ensuring that boxing is restored to the Olympic Games.

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SALITA PROMOTIONS SIGNS BROOKLYN HEAVYWEIGHT PROSPECT PRYCE TAYLOR

Former College Basketball Standout Debuts on the Next Edition of “Big Time Boxing USA” on Thursday, Dec. 12 in Flint, Mich.

Story by Salvador Ramirez

DETROIT (Nov. 19, 2024) – Salita Promotions has announced the signing of undefeated heavyweight prospect Pryce Taylor, a former amateur standout who, like his new promoter Dmitriy Salita, learned the sweet science in New York City’s Brooklyn borough.

A professional for just under a year, the 28-year-old Taylor (4-0, 2 KOs) will be featured on the next edition of “BIG TIME BOXING USA”, boxing’s premier talent developmental series, in Flint, Mich., on Thursday, December 12, airing live on global streaming service DAZN. The fight card is already loaded with some of boxing’s top prospects, including Michigan’s Ardreal “Bossman” Holmes Jr., Joey Spencer, Da’Velle “Hitman 2.0” Smith and Leon Lawson III, and is arguably Salita’s best since the BIG TIME BOXING USA series launched in February. Tickets for the event at Dort Financial Center are on sale now and can be purchased online or in-person at the Dort Financial Center Box Office. 

Taylor is managed by Keith Sullivan and trained by Benny Roman and hopes to continue the tradition of Brooklyn-born heavyweight world champions such as Mike Tyson, Riddick Bowe, Shannon Briggs and Floyd Patterson.

“I have been very impressed by what I’ve seen from Pryce in both the amateurs and in his first four professional bouts,” said Salita, who adds Taylor to a formidable stable of champions and contenders including Claressa Shields, Shohjahon Ergashev, Jermaine Franklin, Joshua Pagan and Vladimir Shishkin. “Pryce has a great chance to compete for a world title in the near future. He has all the skill and physical attributes to become the next great American heavyweight champion. It will be an exciting journey, and we are proud that he has entrusted Salita Promotions to help guide him to the top.”

The 6-foot-4 Taylor is a former college basketball player who took up boxing at the age of 20 when he was introduced to the sport by members of the Cops & Kids Boxing Club in Brooklyn. Taylor quickly learned the craft and imposed his will in amateur competitions, building a record of 60 wins, 11 losses. He won two New York Golden Gloves titles and was the heavyweight runner-up four times in annual USA National Championship tournaments. In 2020, Taylor narrowly missed qualifying to represent his country at the Tokyo Olympic Games, falling just short at U.S.A. Boxing team trials in Louisiana.

“I’m very happy to have signed with Salita Promotions,” said Taylor. “My manager and I reviewed several offers, and we believe that working with Salita is a great opportunity and in my best interest. I’m still learning and developing so it’s helpful to have a promoter who was an accomplished fighter, who knows the path to the top. I can’t wait to get started, get on big shows, and into main events. I’m excited for the future.”

Sullivan added: “Today marks the beginning of an exciting journey for Pryce Taylor. Salita Promotions made it clear that they believe in Pryce’s ability and talent. I’m confident that Dmitriy and his team will help Pryce’s career reach great heights. We’re pleased to welcome them to the team.”

Taylor has worked with top heavyweights and served as a sparring partner to such notables as Jared Anderson, Filip Hrgovic, Jarrrell Miller, Otto Wallin and Brandon Glanton.

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Story by Alexander Rinaldi

TODAY: Light heavyweight stars will go face-to-face as Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Champion David “El Monstro” Benavídez and WBA Light Heavyweight Champion David Morrell Jr. hold a Los Angeles press conference to preview their high-stakes showdown that will headline a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video taking place Saturday, February 1 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Today’s final press conference will begin at 1 p.m. PT/ 4 p.m. ET and can be viewed live on the PBC YouTube channel. It will also feature WBC Featherweight World Champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and former unified world champion Stephen Fulton Jr., as they meet in a much-anticipated rematch in the co-main event.

Also at today’s press conference will be fan-favorite and former world champion Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz, who meets hard-charging contender Angel Fierro in an all-Mexican pay-per-view undercard attraction, and rising Mexican star Jesus “Mono” Ramos Jr. and former unified champion Jeison Rosario, who square off in the pay-per-view opener.

**Pre-sale tickets are available TODAY from 10 a.m. PT until 10 p.m. PT through AXS.com by using the code: PBC. The public on-sale is scheduled for Wednesday, November 20 at 10 a.m. PT with tickets available through AXS.com.

Don’t miss today’s stacked press conference and for more details on Benavidez vs. Morrell, click HERE!

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Filipino Middleweight Star Blazen Rocili Set to Return to the Ring This Saturday in San Antonio, TX

Story by TJ Delafave

SAN ANTONIO, TX (November 2024) – Undefeated 22-year-old middleweight prospect Blazen Rocili (7-0, 6 KOs), a towering 6’3” southpaw from Las Vegas, NV, is ready to light up the ring this Saturday, November 23, 2024, at the Alzafar Shrine Auditorium in San Antonio, Texas. Rocili will face Houston’s De Priest Johnson (2-2) in a scheduled 4-round bout as part of an action-packed evening of boxing.

The event, brought to fans by Triple A Promotions in association with South Park Boxing Academy and Boxing VIP, will be streamed live on KSAT.com, KSAT+, Veuit Boxing, and Radiant TV, ensuring Rocili’s fans from Las Vegas to the Philippines can watch him go to war.

“I’m incredibly excited to be back in the ring,” said Rocili, who’s rare size for a Filipino is gaining attention. “It’s been a dream of mine to fight in Texas, where the fans have so much passion for boxing. This will be my first time fighting here, and I want to make it a memorable night for everyone watching.”

“Blazen has the size, the skill, and the charisma to follow in the footsteps of the greats like Manny Pacquiao,” said Rocili’s manager, Andrew Bocanegra, who believes his fighter has all the qualities to become the next big Filipino star in boxing. “At just 22, he’s already showing that he’s ready to take on the world. Saturday is another step toward fulfilling that potential.”

For Rocili, the global reach of the event makes it even more special. “Knowing that my fans back home in Las Vegas and in the Philippines can watch live, is truly a blessing. Their support pushes me to train harder and give my all in the ring.”

This exciting night of boxing will feature a dynamic mix of rising stars and local talent, delivering nonstop action and memorable moments. In addition, celebrated Country and Tejano artist Laura Lind will be signing the National Anthem.

With a sold-out crowd anticipated and live streaming world wide, fans are set to experience an electrifying evening as Triple A Promotions, South Park Boxing Academy, and Boxing VIP continue their tradition of showcasing premier boxing in San Antonio. The event is proudly sponsored by Gamez Law Firm, AAA Garcia Bail Bonds, JD Tax & Associates, and Texas Roofing.

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Story by Leonard Carmichael

NEW YORK (November 2024) – Elijah Lugo recently added another significant achievement at the 2024 World Boxing U19 Championships, winning a gold medal for Team USA.

Beginning late October and finishing up at the end last week, the tournament saw Lugo dominate his bouts, including a strong final performance against Nikita Prohovskis from Latvia, where he won by unanimous decision. This victory capped a very impressive two week plus run for Lugo, as he previously won on points and secured a technical stoppage victory (RSC) in earlier rounds. His contributions led a strong Team USA, which won multiple medals.

As previously stated, Lugo dominated the 2024 World Boxing U19 Championships from start to finish and continued to demonstrate his elite boxing prowess to go with devastating strength and power. This gold medal win follows up an impressive start to 2024, where he set Team USA’s record for knockouts. A record, which prior to Elijah, was held by none other than Nathan Lugo. His older brother.

 Nathan is represented by Split-T Management and promoted by Frank and George Warren of Queensberry Promotions. The older Lugo made his professional debut in 2024 and was featured on the streaming platform DAZN for his bouts.

Elijah Lugo, 18 years-old from Marietta, Georgia is trained by his father Michael Lugo and trains at the Lugo Boxing Club. More updates to come on Elijah’s promising career in the near future.

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Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul

Story by Salvador Ramirez

Tyson vs. Paul fight odds

As of Wednesday Nov. 13, BetMGM set the following odds for the fight between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul:

• Paul win: -175
• Tyson win: +180
• Tie: +900

• Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson fight card

  *Full card will be available to watch on Netflix.

  • Heavyweight: Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul
  • Super Lightweight: Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano for Taylor’s IBF, WBA, WBC and WBO women’s super-lightweight titles
  • Welterweight: Mario Barrios vs. Abel Ramos for Barrios’ WBC welterweight title
  • Super Middleweight: Neeraj Goyat vs. Whindersson Nunes
  • Super Middleweight: Shadasia Green vs Melinda Watpool for vacant women’s WBO super middleweight title
  • Super Lightweight: Lucas Bahdi vs. Armando Casamonica
  • Featherweight: Bruce Carrington vs Dana Coolwell

Tyson fighting at 58 fighting a 27-year-old man in a sanctioned professional boxing match is quite out of the ordinary, along with the rules by which Mike Tyson and Jake Paul will be fighting Nov. 15 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

The bout is scheduled for eight rounds, though the rules are non-traditional rules:

• For instance, the rounds will last two minutes, a minute shorter than the standard three-minute round typically used for men’s bouts. (Two-minute rounds are used for amateur fights and most women’s pro fights – not in professional men’s boxing).
• The boxing gloves will weigh 14 ounces rather than the standard 10-ounce gloves typically used in sanctioned pro fights by boxers who weigh 147 pounds or more.

• Though some believe that Tyson will benefit from the shortened rounds because he’ll have to expend less energy while facing a boxer 31 years younger than he is, it may be less time for Tyson to land the one big punch that will place Paul into orbit.

  Another problem for Tyson is the big gloves. Obviously, Paul has lobbied for them since there will be more cushion than regular 9- or 10-ounce gloves.
• Jake Paul is not a seasoned boxing professional like Tyson, but he does have youth on his side. Still, it is well known that the last thing a fighter loses is his punch, and Mike Tyson had a bazooka-like punch.

If Tyson lands the big punch Jake Paul will go down and probably not get back up.

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Unbeaten Rising Star David Cardenas Headlines San Antonio Boxing Card on Saturday, November 23rd Streamed Live on ABC Affiliate KSAT.com

By Leonard Carmichael

SAN ANTONIO, TX (November 2024) – Triple A Promotions, in association with South Park Boxing Academy, are set to bring San Antonio another great night of boxing for the community as “The Showdown at the Shrine” will return to the Alzafar Shrine Auditorium in San Antonio, Texas, on Saturday, November 23, 2024. The eagerly awaited event will be broadcast live on KSAT.com and KSAT+, giving fans the opportunity to enjoy the excitement from home.

Tickets priced $35 (General Admission), $65-$75-$85 (Table Seating / $850-10seats / $750-10seats / $650-10seats) are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (210) 605-8933. Doors open at 6:00 pm, and the first bout is scheduled to start at 7:00 pm.

The main event will showcase a thrilling 6-round light flyweight showdown between San Antonio’s next rising star, unbeaten 19-year-old David Cardenas (8-0, 6 KOs), who battles Robert Ledesma (3-13-1, 2 KOs), also from San Antonio, TX. Cardenas brings a fan friendly style to the ring and is rapidly making a name for himself in the boxing world.

“It’s an honor to fight in front of my hometown fans here in San Antonio once again,” said Cardenas, who is gaining popularity with local fans as his relationship with San Antonio Spurs power forward Keldon Johnson, is known around town. “I’m ready to give everyone a show they won’t forget. As always, fans can expect me to go for the knockout. I’m here to bring exciting fights to everyone in attendance and those watching on KSAT.”

In the 4-round co-main event, two rising stars in the lightweight division will go toe-to-toe as Aseel Martinez (2-0, 1 KO), from San Antonio, TX, will battle Jose Jimenez, also from San Antonio, TX, who will be making his pro debut. Martinez vs. Jimenez promises to be a war as both fighters bring exciting fighting styles to the ring.

“Tickets are still available for this event, but we are expecting another sold out show, so fans please get your tickets now before they are gone,” said promoter Rick Nunez. “This event promises to be another unforgettable night of boxing. Fans in the arena and those tuning in on KSAT can look forward to seeing some incredible knockouts. I’m truly grateful to the boxing community in San Antonio and the surrounding areas for supporting this even. The card is stacked with talented prospects ready to make their mark. Boxing in San Antonio is on the rise, and I’m committed to building on that excitement.” 

In addition, singing the National Anthem will be celebrated Country and Tejano 

artist Laura Linda, who was awarded the All Star Music Awards’ Best Female Entertainer of the Year in 2023, a testament to her dynamic presence in the music scene. That same year, her influence extended beyond music as San Antonio Monthly Magazine honored her as the 2023 Socialite of the Year.

Undercard Bouts:

Middleweights – 4 Rounds: Blazen Rocili (7-0, 6 KOs) – Las Vegas, NV vs. Corey Caad (8-7, 3 KOs) – San Antonio, TX.

Featherweights – 4 Rounds: Juan Garcia (5-0, 2 KOs) – Carrizo Springs, TX vs. TBA

Welterweights – 4 Rounds: Martice Taylor (Pro Debut) – San Antonio, TX vs. Juan Mata (1-0-1) – San Antonio, TX.

Super Middleweights – 4 Rounds: Westley Phillips (2-0, 2 KOs) – San Antonio, TX vs. Victor Mendoza (0-1) – San Antonio, TX.

Super Bantamweights – 4 Rounds: Jesus Cortinas (0-1-1) – San Antonio, TX vs. Jose Crespo (1-0) – San Antonio, TX.

Lightgweights – 4 Rounds: Orlando Davila (2-0) – San Antonio, TX vs. Jose Ceja (1-12-2) – Spring, TX.

Middleweights – 4 Rounds: Ethan Lopez (1-1, 1 KO) – Castroville, TX vs. Nicholas Whitehead (Pro Debut) – San Antonio, TX.

Super Bantamweights – 4 Rounds: Carlos Torres (2-4, 1 KO) – Corpus Christi, TX vs. Jacob Barrientez (0-1) – Kennedy, TX.

This night of boxing will showcase a blend of rising stars and local talent, promising nonstop action and unforgettable moments. With the expected sold-out venue and the live stream on KSAT.com, fans are in for a treat as Triple A Promotions, and South Park Boxing Academy continues to bring top-tier boxing to San Antonio. This event is sponsored by Gamez Law Firm, AAA Garcia Bail Bonds, JD Tax & Associates, and Texas Roofing. 

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Paul Bamba vs. Rogelio “Porky” Medina for vacant WBA Gold Cruiserweight World Title December 21st in Carteret, New Jersey!

Marine turned contender Paul Bamba has sights set on Jake Paul after WBA title fight

By Ryan Songalia

NEW YORK — At the lowest point in his career, Paul Bamba looked to another New Yorker’s historic run for inspiration.

Bamba studied how “Iron” Mike Tyson used a 13-fight campaign in 1986 to fine tune his ferocity en-route to the heavyweight championship and decided to replicate that same pace to fulfill his own championship dreams. Now, after scoring 13 straight knockouts in 2024, Bamba seeks to end the year like Tyson did in 1986: with a world championship belt around his waist.

Bamba will face former world title challenger Rogelio “Porky” Medina on Saturday, Dec. 21 at the Performing Arts Center in Carteret, N.J. for the vacant World Boxing Association Gold World Cruiserweight championship. The fight will headline a boxing event promoted by R&B Promotions.

Bamba (18-3, 17 knockouts) of New York City knows the danger that his more experienced opponent brings to the ring. Medina, who has a record of 42-10 (36 KOs) has fought some of the best boxers in the world, including Caleb Plant, James DeGale and David Benavidez in his 17-year pro career. Now Bamba is looking to make a statement in his biggest showcase to date.

“I’m very happy that WBA President Gilberto Mendoza has realized the work that I’ve put in this year. I’m on a 13-fight knockout streak. I have full understanding that Porky Medina is a very dangerous opponent, he’s been in there with the best but it’s my time now. I’m the bigger guy so I’m going to use my speed and power to shock the world,” said Bamba, a native of Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico.

Bamba, who has built up a social media following thanks to his exposure while fighting on Misfits Boxing cards, has his sights set on a showdown with Jake Paul, should the two get past their very dangerous assignments. Paul is scheduled to face the aforementioned Mike Tyson this Friday at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Tex. in what is expected to be a major ratings hit for the streaming service Netflix. Should Paul be interested in chasing his world championship dreams, Bamba would be a welcome test for “The Problem Child.”

“I would love to fight Jake Paul. Jake seems to take things more seriously and he has said that he wants a shot at the world title. I think it would be great for us, he turned pro about a year before me, he has a bit more boxing experience than I have. I feel if he’s trying to take boxing more seriously, I would be his next step. This way he could prove something by not fighting someone who is older, has a lot of wear and tear on their body, and doesn’t come from an MMA background,” said Bamba.

Bamba had previously been scheduled to fight Paul’s lone conqueror, Tommy Fury, in November of 2022, but their showdown in Dubai was canceled after Fury blew the contractually agreed upon 175-pound limit by over eight pounds. The promoter, Global Titans Fight Series, then canceled Bamba’s hotel room and flight, forcing him to pay out of his own pocket to return home. Still, Bamba says he wouldn’t hesitate to settle their unfinished business in the ring.

The 35-year-old Bamba may have come to the sport at a later stage but he knows all about combat. Bamba served in the Marine Corps for two years, including a tour of duty in Iraq with the 1st Battalion, 4th Marines as an infantry machine gunner. After his tour of duty ended, Bamba fell on hard times in New York City due to post traumatic stress disorder. He ended up homeless and would sleep on the 6 Train.

Boxing became his saving grace. He found his way to the legendary Morris Park Boxing Club in The Bronx, where he’d earn $10 a round to spar the local amateur boxers. He did well enough to catch the eyes of former WBA welterweight champion Aaron “Superman” Davis and trainer Bobby Miles who taught him the proper way to box. Now he not only has he become a successful professional fighter, but he also has trained a number of celebrities.

“Boxing literally saved my life. Whether I fight or whether I can teach people this sport, boxing I truly feel as though it’s my calling,” said Bamba, who is now trained by star trainer Malik Scott and promoted by Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna of Rising Star Promotions.

One of those celebrities he trains is his manager, Shaffer Smith, better known to the world as R&B singer Ne-Yo. The three-time Grammy Award winner has been instrumental to guiding Bamba’s career, giving him the push he has needed to get to his first world title opportunity.

“I’ve never met someone more positive in my life. His work ethic is unlike anyone I’ve met, he just finds a way to get everything done. He’s positive about everything and finds the good in everything. Although he’s new to boxing, just having someone who has your back like that is the best thing in the world,” said Bamba.

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Atlantic City’s boxing future and past to be on display Nov. 16^th at The Trop

 Justin Figueroa, Bruce Seldon, Jr. & Francisco Rodriguez in action, 

Legendary Promoter Don Elbaum to be honored

Streaming live on DAZN from Tropicana Atlantic City

By Joseph Rinaldi

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (November 2024) – Boxing Insider Promotions will showcase the future of Atlantic City boxing as well as honor its past during its November 16th pro boxing event, which will be streamed live on DAZN from The Showroom at Tropicana Atlantic City starting at 7 PM.

A trio of popular Atlantic City fighters are slated to fight on the loaded card that features a wide variety of entertaining, competitive encounters in the ring.

Leading the way is the fighter known as “Mr. Atlantic City”, popular undefeated junior middleweight Justin Figueroa (10-0, 8 KOs), who puts his unbeaten record on the line against Omar Rosales (9-3-1, 5 KOs) in a six-round bout. The 25-year-old Figueroa was a popular football player at Holy Spirit High School and former member of the famed AC Beach Patrol.

The son of former World Boxing Association (WBA) Heavyweight Champion Bruce Seldon, Sr. (40-8, 36 KOs), known as “The Atlantic City Express” when he fought professionally from 1988 to 2009, undefeated heavyweight Bruce “Atlantic City Express 2.0” Seldon, Jr. (3-0, 3 KOs), who attended Absegami High School, meets Julio Mendoza (3-4, 2 KOs) in a four-rounder.

Undefeated lightweight prospect Francisco Rodriguez (5-0, 5 KOs) has been perfect as a pro, knocking out each of his five opponents to date. The powerful southpaw often displayed his natural power fighting in The Combat League (TCL) for the Philadelphia Smoke.

Legendary promoter Don Elbaum, who promoted 196 shows at The Tropicana during a five-year period alone (1982-1986), will be honored by Atlantic City native and the event promoter, Larry Goldberg. In 2019, Elbaum was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame (IBHOF) and the now 93-year-old legend promoted, advised, or matched fellow IBHOF inductees such as Sugar Ray Robinson, Muhammad Ali, Roberto Duran, Aaron Pryor, Willie Pep, Floyd Patterson and Sonny Liston during his six decades working in the industry.

“I am excited to be honoring the legend, Don Elbaum, and his one-of-a-kind Atlantic City boxing career,” said Goldberg, the 2024 New York State Hall of Fame Promoter of the Year. “He was a big reason AC was the fight town in the ‘80s and we look forward to hearing all his stories about the good old days.

“This event features the best young prospects in the region, and it will be streamed live on DAZN. We have great triple main event on Saturday and stick around for the charity boxing show on Sunday in which we are donating the venue to AC PAL for a big amateur boxing fundraiser.”

Undefeated blue-chip bantamweight contender Dominique “Dimes” Crowder (17-0, 10 KOs), the reigning World Boxing Association (WBA) International bantamweight champion, faces Duke Micah (24-2, 19 KOs), of Ghana, in an eight-round bout. Micah is a former EBC International, Commonwealth Boxing Council and WBO African Champion.

Avious Griffin (15-0, 14 KOs), fighting out of Chattanooga (TN), versus Adrian Gutierrez (12-2-1, 6 KOs) in an eight-round bout. The heavy-handed Griffin, who is trained by the renowned Brian “Bomac” McIntyre, is currently riding an eight-fight knockout streak.

Ultra-promising prospects in six-round fights are Long Island (NY) super middleweight Donte Layne (4-0, 4 KOs) vs. Shaquille Cameron (7-3, 6 KOs), in a match presented in association with Overtime Boxing, and Paterson (NJ) junior middleweight Dwyke Flemmings, Jr. (8-0, 8 KOs) vs. David Lobo Ramrez (17-2, 12 KOs).

Also fighting on the undercard is undefeated Italian junior welterweight Giacomo Micheli (8-0, 6 KOs), a standout amateur in Italy, who squares off against Ronnell “Punisher” Burnett (11-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-rounder.

Two potential female world title contenders of the future, Philadelphia welterweight Stacia “The Natural” Suttles and Hawaiian lightweight Shere Mae Patricio (2-0, 1 KO), will be showcased in four-round fights.

Suttles, who was born in New York City, was a 2016 USA Women’s National Championships gold medalist.  She is matched with Maroya Agapova (0-0-1), of Kazakhstan. The 21-year-old Patricio captured gold medals at the 2023 USA Women’s National Golden Gloves and 2022 USA Women’s National Championships. She will face Sarah “Switch Kick” Click (1-7-1).

The card is subject to change.

Ticket prices range between $48.00 and $203.50 and are available for purchase online at https://www.ticketmaster.com/boxing-insider-live-professional-boxing-atlantic-city-new-jersey-11-16-024/event/02006138C81B4F54?_ga=2.165801022.1645432099.1728316789-537326816.1728316789.

The amateur show will be held at Tropicana Atlantic City the following day (Sunday, Nov. 17 – 1-6 pm ET), and is sanctioned by USA Boxing. Tickets are $40.00 and 100%of the proceeds will be donated to the Atlantic City PAL. Tickets will be available to purchase at the door.

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LET’S SETTLE VOLUME 2

PHILLY’S JESSE HART HEADLINES NOVEMBER 22 BOXING CARD LOADED WITH LOCAL TALENT AT THE LIACOURAS CENTER, PHILADELPHIA PA

Tickets on Sale Now!

By Salvador Ramirez

PHILADELPHIA, November 2024 – Two-time world title challenger Jesse Hart will defend his home turf when he battles Ricardo Luna in an eight-round light heavyweight bout in the main event on Friday, November 22 at the Liacouras Center on the University of Temple campus.

All in all, on the card will be five Philly fighters, and two Pennsylvania fighters and three New Jersey fighters within driving distance of the Liacouras Center.

Tickets, priced from $35 to $225, are available at TicketMaster here.

The show will be streamed live by PPV on Radiant TV.

“I’m looking to bring that old school feeling back…like the era when Mike Tyson, Roy Jones Jr. and Bernard Hopkins were fighting,” said Dominick Walton, CEO of Teflon Promotions. “When the best fought the best in their division in 50/50 fights.. that’s why I salute Jesse Hart, Naheem Parker, Jibril Noble, Arnold Gonzalez, Muhsin Cason etc. because they understand the mission with their mind set and their goals to be great. It brings excitement back to Philadelphia and it also puts Teflon promotions on the map.”

Jesse “Hard Work” Hart (31-3, 25 KOs), born and raised in Philadelphia, PA. is ranked No. 3 light heavyweight by the World Boxing Organization (WBO). Jesse won the NABF super middleweight title in 2014 and a year later added the IBF USBA and WBO NABO super middleweight belts with a knockout win against an undefeated Mike Jimenez. “Hard Work” made four successful defenses of the IBF and WBO titles which set him up for his first world title shot, which he lost to Zurdo Ramirez by razor thin decision. Three wins later, Hart fought a rematch with Ramirez for the same WBO world title, this time losing by majority decision. Hart is currently on a five bout win streak, last four by knockout.

“This is gonna be a great night of boxing – every fight on the card is a 50/50 match and I’m defending my number 3 WBO position,” said Hart. “It’s going to be a very exciting night.”

Ricardo Adrian “Tyson” Luna (27-12-2, 17 KOs) from Ciudad Nezahualcoyotl, México, is a former Mexican Middleweight Champion. Ricardo also challenged for the WBC USA Super Middleweight Title (twice), NABA and WBO NABO Super Middleweight titles,

In an eight round, 150 lbs. welterweight catchweight bout, Arnold Gonzalez (15-1, 7 KOs) from New York, NY, will battle Florent “The Tiger” Dervis (10-2, 5 KOs), who was born in France and now calls Boston, Mass. home. Each were undefeated till recent losses. Gonzalez made pro debut in 2019 as a welterweight and his undefeated streak of fifteen ended in his last fight. The twenty-six-year-old Dervis began his career with ten consecutive wins.

In a South Jersey versus Philly battle, Philadelphian Jibril “Pegese” Noble, (6-0, 5 KOs) will battle Naheem Parker (5-1, 2 KOs) from Camden, NJ in a six-round lightweight bout. Noble made his pro debut in Philadelphia on July 24, 2021, with a second-round knockout. Noble’s only fight that went the distance was against fellow undefeated fighter on October 21, 2023.

Parker made his pro debut in 2020 and won his first five fights.

In a second PA vs Jersey bout, Jaclyne “The Assassin” McTamney (2-0, 1 KO) out of Southampton, PA will battle Princeton’s Ayeshia Green (0-1) in a four-round featherweight contest.

Muhsin “The Muslim Boxer” Cason (12-0, 9 KOs) was born in Baltimore and calls Philadelphia home. Muhsin has sixteen siblings and his oldest brother is former world heavyweight champion Hasim “The Rock” Rahman. “Hasim gives me insight on how to be focused and overcome the obstacles,” said Muhsin. He will fight in a six-round cruiserweight scrap. “It’s great that so many of our Philly natives get to be on one card and show their skills,” said Muhsin.

Philadelphian Rasheen Brown (12-1, 7 KOs) will fight in a six-round featherweight bout against Mexican Juan Antonio “The Wolfe” Lopez (18-17-1, 8 KOs) who currently resides in Burleson, Texas.

Allentown, PA’s undefeated Thanjhae Teasley (11-0, 5 KOs) will fight in a six-round welterweight bout.

Philadelphian Najeem Johns (5-1, 4 KOs) will fight in a four-round super lightweight bout against Danny Murray (7-7) from Lanoka Harbor, NJ.

Opening the card will be Hawaiian Lyndon Patricio (1-0, 1 KO) in a four-round bantamweight tilt.

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Alejandro Paulino decisions Toka Kahn Clary on headline bout of CES Autumn Classic

Story by Kirk Lang

Photos by Laila Lang

Lightweight Alejandro “El Abusador” Paulino passed the biggest test of his career at Mohegan Sun on Nov. 2, earning a 10-round majority decision over talented veteran Toka Kahn Clary in a “crossroads fight.” Although one judge saw it a draw, 95-95, the other judges had Paulino the clear victor, by scores of 97-93 and 96-94. 

A pro for only three years, Paulino was elated.

“I’ve been training really hard in the gym and now I’ve been 10 rounds with an experienced southpaw,” said “El Abusador” in a post-fight press release. “This is the best I ever felt. I want to fight tough competition, guys who will lead me to a world title.  I want to be a champion.”  

Going into bout, Kahn Clary was 29-3 and was coming off a two-year layoff. His only losses in the last five years were to Shakur Stevenson and Kid Galahad, who became a world champion after facing Kahn. Paulino wanted to show he had the goods to defeat a talented veteran with far more experience than him. 

Early in the opening round, Paulino missed with a lead right hand but later connected with a slew of left and right hands as Kahn got near a corner. However, Kahn is not one to stay in one spot and used beautiful subtle movement, round after round, to make Paulino work for the win. However, over the course of the first half of the fight, he was sometimes too defensive. He used his feet beautifully but was not always as active with his hands.

In the third frame, Paulino let loose with rapid-fire combinations, but Toka ducked and slipped most of the assault. 

“I knew he wasn’t going to fight the first four rounds,” said Paulino. “I knew that he wanted to take the fight to the later rounds because I had never been 10 rounds.  He said that I was green, and he saw me make mistakes in the later rounds.  He was going to try to get me tired and take me out.” 

Kahn would get a little busier with his hands in round five and just before the bell, closed the round with a nice right jab-left to the body combination. There were chants of “Ale-jandro” in the finale minute round six, as his fans wanted to see him tag Kahn with a bit more lather. 

Kahn increased his work rate in round seven. A minute into the frame, he fired off a quick straight left. Fifteen seconds later he let both hands fly at center-ring. Particularly impressive was a left uppercut-straight left combination. Paulino seemed a little more energized by the offense from the other side, because just before the bell, he did an “Ali Shuffle” while ripping off a few shots. 

The final three rounds were very competitive, with a lot of tit-for-tat action. Paulino did manage to get Kahn on the ropes in the final seconds of the 10^th and final round, closing the show impressively like the young contender that he is. 

“I was not surprised,” said Paulino of Kahn’s late surge. “I won the first 8 rounds.  When you’re just going backwards and not throwing any punches, you’re going to have a lot of energy.  He didn’t even try to win one round in the beginning.  It was like 8-0 for me before he started stepping it up.  I took one round off because I knew that I had a lot of rounds in the bank, but I finished strong in the last round.  I wasn’t going to lose this fight.”

Paulino’s trainer, Roland Estrada, told The USA Boxing News, “I think our game plan worked to perfection. I also felt I understood their game plan even before the fight started. Their strategy seemed to be to go into the later rounds and turn it up hoping Alejandro got tired. We addressed that during a strenuous training camp. It was Alejandro’s first ten-rounder so we wanted him to feel comfortable going the entire ten, if need be.”

Estrada added, “As expected, Toka definitely picked it up in the second half of the fight but thankfully Alejandro was able to match him every time. I think going forward and consistent head movement and combinations were the key to the win. Honestly, I thought we won fairly easy, even though the judges had it closer. In hindsight, the ten rounds were a blessing. Fighters need to feel that early in their career.”

With the win, Paulino defended his WBC USA Silver lightweight championship and advanced to 19-0 (14) while Kahn fell to 29-4 (19). 

“King” Kevin Walsh, of Brockton, MA, defended his New England super lightweight championship with a fourth-round stoppage of fellow Massachusetts resident Irvin Gonzalez. 

The official time was 23 seconds. Gonzalez, of Worcester, likely expected Walsh, who has a reputation as a puncher, to come out and attack from the outset of their scheduled eight-rounder. However, Walsh and his team had a plan to box and make Gonzalez follow him. 

“I think he lulled him to sleep a little bit,” said Rich Cappiello, Walsh’s manager. “He thought he was going to be the aggressor. Kevin kept moving, moving. Letting him get a little tired. And I told him, the second half of the fight, when you get close, let it go, you hit him on the chin, you’ll get him, and that’s what happened.” 

Each man had their moments before the end. Gonzalez was pressing the action from the start as Kevin elected to box. Gonzalez upped the aggression in the second round and landed enough right hands to create a welt under Walsh’s left eye. Although Walsh made a point to box rather than attack like a bull, he did let loose with some crowd-pleasing combinations in the third frame. 

Walsh did not waste any time in the 4^th round. He jumped on Gonzalez at the bell to start the stanza and after went in for the kill after landing a big right hand.

Walsh unleashed a piston-like attack of rights and lefts to the head as Gonzalez backed against the ropes. Gonzalez, 16-5 (12), tried unsuccessfully to avoid the onslaught with some body movement, but after taking nearly 20 blows in succession, referee Arthur Mercante Jr. was forced to step in and end matters. 

“I want to give a big shout out to Irvin,” said Walsh during an in-ring interview. “You’re a beast for stepping up.” 

Walsh, who advanced to 15-0 (8), added, “Hard work and determination pays off.” Hailing from the same town as Marvelous Marvin Hagler and former heavyweight champion Rocky Marciano, Walsh is the city’s latest fistic hero. 

“He’s given the city of Brockton a lot of hope,” said Cappiello, a relative of Marciano. “Brockton has changed a lot, but Kevin’s success gives people a sense of pride, and people really follow him. He’s really likeable.”

Jacob “Lefty” Marrero, 137, of Bridgeport, CT, scored the quickest win of the night, with a first-round stoppage of Placido Hoff, 132, of Providence, RI. The unbeaten lightweight started off looking like he might make the opening stanza more of a feel-him-out kind of round, as he was content to pop the right jab and fight off the backfoot. However, once Marrero found out he could land his lighting straight left hand, he increased its frequency, and soon after, referee Arthur Mercante Jr., had no choice but to jump in and halt the bout. The official time was 2:55. 

Marrero improves to 8-0 (7) while Hoff falls to 2-3-1.

Unbeaten southpaw Mike “The Savage” Kimbel, 147, of Waterbury, CT, dominated Sebastian Gabriel Chaves, 143, of Buenos Aires, Argentina, to earn a six-round unanimous decision victory. Two judges saw it a clean sweep at 60-54 while the third judge had it 59-55. Even though Chaves had lost seven of his last eight fights, Kimbel, who clearly had the better technique and the bigger frame, never really let loose with guns blazing. Rather, he was content to box his way to victory rather than try to go for the knockout. He did pick things up a notch in the fifth round, putting more combinations together and making the uppercut a more frequent weapon. 

Round six began with chants of “Mikey, Mikey.” Kimbel maintained a decent work rate, but never felt pressured to go in for the kill. He advanced to 8-0 (5) and Chaves fell to 6-8 (2). 

Stevie Jane Coleman, 144, of Colombia, CT, won a unanimous four-round decision over Suzanna Rodriguez Griffin, 144, of Indianapolis, IN. The scores were 40-36 (twice) and 39-37. Every round was competitive, but Coleman appeared to do just enough to earn every round. Trained by Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame trainer Paul Cichon, Coleman, whose only loss was her pro debut, advanced to 6-1 (2).

2020 Olympic alternate Amelia Moore, 139.5, of Colorado Springs, CO, cruised to a four-round unanimous decision victory in her pro debut against Michaele Nogue, 140, of Egg Harbor, NJ. She increased the firepower in the third round and looked like she had referee Johnny Callas on the verge of stopping the fight, with Griffin trapped along the ropes. However, Griffin never stopped fighting back. Both women continued to give their all in the fourth and final frame. When it was over, Moore was announced the winner, as all three judges saw it 40-36. With the loss, Nogue drops to 2-6-1. 

In a bantamweight battle of southpaws, Carlos Vanegas Nunez, 122, of Port Chester, NY, dominated Anthony Eliotti, 123, of St. Louis, MO, over six rounds. The scores were 59-55 (twice) and 58-56. The action was not always exciting, but Nunez made sure to close the show strong in the final minute of the sixth frame. He also showed excellent choice in ring entrance music. Whereas most fighters’ songs were filled with profane lyrics and curse words, Nunez’ music pick was Frank Sinatra’s “That’s Life.” He improved to 9-1 (7) with the win over Eliotti, whose record is now 4-3 (4). 

Jeffrey Gonzalez, 148, of East Haven, extended his undefeated record to 5-0 (4) with a four-round unanimous decision over Robert Degaetano, 149, of Douglas, MA. The judges saw it 59-55 (twice) and 58-56. Degaetano is now 3-2 (3).

Douglas Marroquin, 162, of Stamford, CT, who went the distance for the first time in his young career, advanced to 4-0 (3) with a four-round unanimous decision over Travis Floyd, 161, of Douglasville, GA. The scores were 40-36 (twice) and 39-37.

Joseph “J-Elite” Chisholm, 125, of Stratford, CT, earned the first knockout of the night (and one of only two stoppage victories) when he stopped Semaj Flextcher, 121, of Lancaster, TX, in the opening round. Showing impressive hand speed, he dropped Flextcher with a left hook as both men were throwing leather. Flextcher made it to his feet but when the action resumed, he was sent to the canvas after taking an overhand right. The official time of the stoppage was 1:12. Chisholm advances to 3-0 (3) while Flextcher’s record looks the opposite, at 0-3

Kevante Wineglass, 145, of Waterbury, CT, earned a four-round unanimous decision over Jesus Salas, 145, of New Bedford, MA to make his pro debut a successful one. The scores were 40-36 and 39-37 (twice).  Wineglass began patient but was making more of an effort to cut off the ring and land crisp straight left hands in the third frame. Salas made it to the final bell but is now 1-3 (1) in his four-bout pro career.

__________

Kingsley Ibeh knocked out Jack May in 59 seconds

Official Results from Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, WA

“EQC Fight Night,” card presented by Toro Promotions, Inc., and Whitfield Haydon Boxing, in the EQC Event Center at the famed Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington.

In a Clash of the Titans, the 6’ 4”, 273-pound Ibeh only needed 49 seconds to stop 6’ 8”, 257-pound Jack “The Outlaw” May (10-1, 9 KOs) to capture the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) Latino Silver Championship.

The crowd of 2,000, which sold-out one week in advance, was electrified by the main event, in which there was no “feeling out” as Ibeh and May traded bombs from the opening bell. Suddenly, though, Ibeh landed a powerful left cross on May, who was up against the ropes, and “The Outlaw” went down hard, severely knocked at the 59-seconds mark of the opening round.

Ibeh, fighting out of Phoenix, weighed 7-pounds less than for his last fight, 16 fewer than he weighed four fights ago as the former professional football player in Canada won his ninth fight in a row. “The Black Lion” is the cousin of the retired former heavyweight Ike Ibeabuchi.

In the co-featured event, hometown favorite Marquice Weston (16-4-1, 9 KOs) registered a first-round stoppage of heavyweight John Shipman (5-8, 2 KOs) by way of a vicious body shot. It was Weston’s first victory in six years.

Haitian-born lightweight Nesley Trezile (1-1) notched his first pro win in a mild upset with a four-round majority decision over local fighter Agustin Tovar (2-1, 0 KOs). Trezile fights out of Los Angeles.

There was almost a major upset as Antonio Louis “Tswervo” Hernandez (7-19-4, 4 KOs) gave Juan “Just Business” Barajas (11-0-2, 7 KOs) everything he could handle in their six-round match. Hernandez landed clean shots on Barajas, who was coming off a 4-year layoff. Barajas closed the fight strongly, but it wasn’t enough as the judges scored the fight a majority draw.

Illinois junior welterweight Quinn McKenna (1-0-1, 0 KOs) won his first fight as a pro, taking a four-round unanimous decision from Clayton Hibbert (2-3, 2 KOs). Both fighters were hurt in round three as they opened up offensively, leaving both seemingly out on their feet. McKenna, however, was the fresher fighter in the fourth and final round. He had Hibbert on the run to earn his initial victory.

Russian lightweight Samvel Gandilyan (5-0-1, 3 KOs) kept his unbeaten pro record intact with a fourth-round knockout of a game Ezera Rabin.

Official Results below:

OFFICIAL RESULTS

MAIN EVENT – VACANT WBC LATINO SILVER HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Kingsley Ibeh (14-2-1, 12 KOs), Phoenix, AZ by way of Nigeria

WKO1 (0:59)

Jack May (10-1, 9 KOs), Chino Hills, CA

(Ibeh won the WBA Latino Silver Heavyweight title)

CO-FEATURE – HEAVYWEIGHTS

Marquice Weston (16-3-1, 9 KOs), Tacoma, WA

WKO1

John Shipman (5-8, 2 KOs), Dallas, TX

 

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Juan Barajas (11-0-2, 7 KOs), Victorville, CA

D6 (57-57, 57-57, 56-58

Antonio Louis Hernandez (7-20-3, 4 KOs), Kansas City, MO

JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS

Quinn McKenna (1-0-1. 0 KOs), Naperville, IL

WDEC4 (40-36, 39-37, 39-37)

Clayton Hibbert (2-3, 2 KOs), Los Angeles, CA

LIGHTWEIGHTS

Samvel Gandilyan (5-0-1, 3 KOs), Medvedovskaya, Russia

WTKO4

Ezera Rabin (1-8, 1 KO), Oakland, CA

Nesley Trezile (1-1, 0 KOs), Inglewood, CA by way of Haiti

WDEC4 (39-37, 39-37, 38-38)

Agustin Tovar (2-1, 0 KOs), Auburn, WA

 

__________

Josniel Castro dominates Denzel Whitley 

“WORCESTER CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING”

WORCESTER, Mass. (November 2024) – World Boxing Council (WBC) U.S. Junior Middleweight Champion Josniel “TG” Castro (14-1, 8 KOs) turned in a dominating performance last Friday night against previously undefeated Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (14-1, 8 KOs) in the main event on the “Worcester Championship Boxing” card, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), at DCU Event Center in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Fighting out of Boca Raton, Florida, Castro made his first title defense memorable by out-boxing Whitley for a 10-round unanimous decision (100-90, 99-91, 98-92). Castro’s crisp jab set-up his point-scoring combinations and also prevented Whitley from gaining any momentum throughout the clash.

Whitley, of Holyoke (MA), is the NABF welterweight champion who moved up in weight to challenge Puerto Rico-native Castro.

“I’m at a different level,” Castro said after the fight about the statement he had made in the ring. “I’ve been working very hard. I just fought here (Worcester) in August, but my manager (Chuck Shearns) wanted to make this fight, so we did. I worked on my jab and showed I could land it – up and down – in the fight. The best is yet to come.”

Kevin Nagle (R) remained undefeated with a win over Jake Paradise

In the co-featured event, undefeated Kevin “Big Gulp” Nagle (10-0, 8 KOs) peppered a game Jake “No Love” Paradise (8-4, 8 KOs), the former Massachusetts Cruiserweight Champion fighting in front of a hometown crowd, who suffered an injury to his left knee in the first round. Nagle, of Scituate (MA), consistently trapped the immobile Paradise and connected with combinations from various angles to win a fourth-round technical knockout and capture the vacant WBC U.S. Silver Heavyweight title.

Popular Worcester welterweight Dan “Grafton Hill’s Favorite Son” Docimo (1-0, 1 KO) thought he had notched his second victory when Jaequez Jones (0-3) went down in the opening round and couldn’t continue. However, the referee ruled that Docimo had pushed Jones, who hit his head on the mat and was too injured to continue, resulting in a “no contest”.

Haitian junior middleweight Edwine Humaine, Jr., fighting out of Springfield (MA), improved to 10-0 (8 KOs) with a first-round knockout of Jimmy “The Quiet Storm” Williams (18-16-2, 6 KOs) with a short body-shot that Williams was unable to recover from.

Hometown favorite Khiary “Too Sharp” Gray (19-7, 14 KOs) outclassed veteran middleweight Daniel “Daniel “The Hudson Valley Kid” Sostre (13-27-2, 5 KOs) enroute to an explosive ending late in the sixth round. The fighters were trash talking throughout the bout and Gray eventually caught him with a powerful right that knocked out Sostre in a neutral corner.

Two-time New England Golden Gloves Champion Justin “The Bandit” Laporte (2-0,2 KOs), fighting out of nearby Millbury (MA), won a one-sided, four-round unanimous decision over junior middleweight Rakim Johnson (7-24-1, 5 KOs) in an entertaining match from start to finish. Laporte scored two knockdowns in each of the second and third rounds, although he was buzzed a few times himself. A left uppercut sent the resilient Johnson down again in the fourth and final round, but he somehow made it to his feet, and he was still standing at the end of the fight. Laporte, a southpaw, is a U.S. Marine, licensed realtor and college student (Nichols College).

Another two-time New England Golden Gloves Champion, Jhon “Dwave” Devers Rodriguez (2-0, 2 KOs), floored middleweight Tymar Miles (0-4) three times in round one, all the result of an overhand right, forcing the referee to wave off the fight after the third knockdown. Born in Puerto Rico, Rodriguez fights out of Worcester.

In the opening bout of the evening, 17-year-old Chicopee (MA) junior middleweight Adrian Valdez Reyes (2-0, 2 KOs) dropped Tracey Coppedge (0-5) twice in the opening round, the second time on the canvas earned Reyes the knockout victory as Coppedge was unable to beat the count after a left dropped him.

Official fighters’ weights below: 

“Worcester Championship Boxing” Official Results

MAIN EVENT – WBC U.S. JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Josniel Castro (14-1, 8 KOs), Champion, Boca Raton, FL

WDEC (100-90, 99-91, 98-92)

Denzel Whitley (14-1, 8 KOs), Challenger, Holyoke, MA

(Castro retained the  WBC US junior middleweight title)

CO-FEATURE – VACANT WBC U.S. SILVER HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Kevin Nagle (10-0, 8 KOs), Scituate, MA

WTKO4 (1 :45).

Jake Paradise (8-4, 8 KOs), Worcester, MA

(Nagle won the WBC US Silver heavyweight title)

MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Khiary Gray (19-7, 14 KOs), Worcester, MA

WKO6 (2:21)

Daniel Sostre (13-27-2, 5 KOs), San Juan, Puerto Rico

Jhon Devers Rodriguez (2-0, 2 KOs), Worcester, MA

WTKO1 (1:00)

Tymar Miles (0-4), Poughkeepsie, NY

 

JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Edwine Humaine, Jr. (8-0, 9 KOs), Springfield, MA

WKO1 (3:00)

Jimmy Williams (18-16-2, 6 KOs), New Haven, CT

Justin Laporte (2-0, 1 KO), Millbury, MA

WDEC4 (40-32, 39-33, 39-33)

Rakim Johnson (7-24-1, 5 KOs), Indianapolis, IN

Adrian Valdez Reyes 2-0 (2 KOs), Chicopee, MA

WKO1 (1:09)

Tracey Coppedge (0-5), Wilson, NC

WELTERWEIGHTS

Dan Docimo (1-0, 1 KO), Worcester, MA

NC1 (0:28)

Jaequez Jones (0-4), Rocky Mount, NC

__________

OVERSEAS BOXING MATCHES

By Per-Ake Persson

 

 

Thrilling Fisticuffs action in Germany and Latvia

William Scull outpoints Vladimir Shishkin to capture IBF super middleweight laurels

Story by Per-Ake Persson

 

October – Falkensee, Germany. Agon Sports and Kuc Boxing again joined forces for a show at the Town Hall in this small town just outside of Berlin this time with a fight for the vacant IBF super middleweight title between German-based Cuban William Scull and US-based Russian Vladimir Shishkin topping the bill.

After a very close, tense and tactical fight Scull (23-0) won a unanimous decision over Shishkin (16-1). The judges had it 116-112, 116-113 and 115-113. Many rounds were difficult to score, and the fight did not break open until the 12th where Scull for a moment looked like he was in trouble. Shishkin went for broke, but the Cuban was able to smother him, and nothing came out of it.

Round after round followed the same pattern with Shishkin, taller and bigger, looking to find the range with his jab and follow up with his right hand. However, Scull, moving very well, showed excellent defense, slipped or blocked the jab and tried to counter with his right – with some success but for the most part Shishkin avoided the punches coming his way. However, in the ninth Scull scored with a right and then a right uppercut – which was the best punch of the night. 

It was a very close fight. I had it 115-114 for Scull and while Shishkin was in it all the way he should have opened up more instead of waiting for openings that never came.

The undercard featured Kuc Boxing’s heavyweights Dusan Veletic (9-1-1) and Sanel Hasanovic (8-1-1) and both won. The hard-punching Hasanovic stopped German-Albanian Christian Demaj (7-4) in fourth while Veletic outscored Czech Tomas Salek (22-6) over ten in a International German title fight.

Former IBF middleweight champ Vincenzo Gualtieri (23-1-1) scored his second win since losing the title to Zhanibek Alimkhanuly and knocked out Argentinian Job Ezequiel Herrera (12-3-1) in the first round.

Middleweight prospect Paul Wall (8-0) stopped Finn Nordeen Toure (12-3) in the seventh of a scheduled eight rounder. It was Wall’s fight all the way except for a brief spell in the fourth. Toure took a beating and finally caved in during the seventh and the referee made a timely stoppage.

…………………………………

October 19 – Riga, Latvia. Argentinian Lucas Basilda (22-3-1) upset Bohdan Sohol (18-1) knocking him out 30 seconds of the eighth and won the IBA Intercontinental fight in the main event of a show billed as Dream Fight but became a nightmare for the local man. Sohol, from Ukraine but based in Latvia, was badly out of it and while he was conscious, he was very unsteady and was dragged out of the ring to be put on a stretcher.

Basilda stunned Sohol in the first, floored him in the second but Sohol seemed to come back after that working well behind his jab and the Argentinian seemed to have punched himself out. However, in the sixth the tide turned again and Sohol seemed to tire and lose focus. Basilda poured it on and stunned his opponent with a right. Sohol staggered backwards but countered with a right and now the Argentinian was forced to hold on. In the eighth Basilda attacked again and Bohdan was a spent force as he staggered into the ropes and now Basilda went for broke and Sohol was out of it with the referee a little too late in stopping it. Sohol finally fell, out of this world and the fight was stopped with no count.

 

Former IBF cruiser champ Murat Gassiev knocks out previously unbeaten heavyweight Kem Ljungquist in 5

Story by Per-Ake Persson

October  – Yerevan, Armenia. The fight was long in the making and was first set for Vienna (Austria) October 19 but was postponed when Murat Gassiev could not get a visa and then moved to Yerevan, Armenia, and held in conjunction with a IBA Champion’s Night.

For Danish heavyweight Kem Ljungquist (18-1) this was his first major fight while former IBF cruiser king Murat Gassiev (33-2) had his first fight since losing to Swede Otto Wallin last year in Turkey.

The first round was very tense with the tall Dane, a southpaw, using his reach well while Gassiev made a slow start taking his time patiently stalking his opponent. Ljungquist protected himself well but was cut on the bridge of the nose (at about the same spot that was cut in his fight against Marios Kollias earlier this year).

After four rather quiet, even rounds Gasiev went to work in the fifth mixing his attack well, hurting Ljungquist with a couple of heavy right hooks to the body and then followed up with a left hook downstairs. Ljungquist went down and Danish referee Freddie Rafn counted ten and out with Kem stretched out on his back trying to get his breath back.

It was a non-title fight scheduled for ten. For Murat Gassiev the win means he is back in the picture after the disappointing loss to Otto Wallin.

This was the sole “real” pro fight on the bill where the IBA semi pros were featured in the six-rounders that do not count it seems.

__________

INTERNATIONAL BOXING FEDERATION JR. MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION

BAKHRAM MURTAZALIEV AND HIS TEAM DISCUSS BIG WIN AND WHAT IS NEXT

 

TOTOWA, NJ, October 2024  —  Bakhram Murtazaliev stopped Tim Tszyu his first title defense, shocking many as he entered the ring as a huge underdog this past Saturday, October 19 at Caribe Royal in Orlando, Florida, live on Prime Video.

 Bakhram accomplished this DESPITE breaking the knuckle on his right-hand pinky finger on the last day of sparring on Friday, October 11.  They had a doctor check it out. After the fight was over, when head trainer Roman Kalantaryan revealed the injury, he said they decided not to cancel the fight because they were so sure that Bakhram would stop Tszyu anyway. “The guy is a monster!!” said Bakhram’s promoter Kathy Duva after hearing about this. 

 Bakhram applied serious pressure from the start. He knocked Tszyu down three times in round two and once again in round three, when the fight was stopped. The official time of the stoppage was 1:55 round three and the referee was Chris Young. The scores going into round three were 20-15 straight across.

 Murtazaliev improved his record to 23-0, 17 KOs.

 “The fight pretty much went the way I expected,” said Bakhram about the Tszyu fight. “I was thinking that he would probably stick around a little bit longer than three rounds. I had mentioned in interviews prior to the fight that I thought I would stop him, but I didn’t know when we would stop him. We did also prepare for twelve rounds.”

Regarding what is next, Bakhram said, “I don’t want to wait too long for another fight since I am thirty-one years old. I would love to unify the titles – so that would mean whoever comes first with another belt. Another option would be to go get a champion at middleweight. If that doesn’t work out, we will take anyone in the top ten, but again, first option is unification, under fair circumstances, and as long as the fight makes sense. I had been waiting three or four years to get the title shot. I eventually did get the chance at the world title but the circumstances surrounding that title fight were terrible. I had to train during Ramadan times (nighttime) and the fight and fight week activities were in the Berlin city limits, and they stuck us in a hotel way outside the city.”

Bakhram’s trainer Romo added, “Since his right hand was broke, he was using lots of left hooks, and not the right hand. That right hand is deadly and most of the time that’s how his knockouts come. The thing was, it was so close to the fight and camp was great and we didn’t want to have any excuses. That’s why we were throwing so many left hooks, which is how the knockout came.”

 “We were very confident going into the fight,” said Hall of Fame Promoter Kathy Duva, CEO of Main Events. “The idea was to put pressure on right from the start, not letting up, thinking Tszyu may be tentative coming off his last fight, a loss. Bakhram showed that he is a real money fighter. He waited four years for a title shot. Had to go fight for that title in his opponents back yard, and against all odds, won by knockout. Then, in his first defense he shocked most by winning by stoppage. He was a 5-to-1 underdog in Germany and Tszyu was favored by 7-to-1 on Saturday. Bakhram will probably be an underdog against who he fights next, but we are very excited whoever that may be.”

__________

Undefeated WBA #6 Darius “DFG” Fulghum’s

Mercurial rise in super middleweight division has led him from prospect to contender

LOS ANGELES (October 2024) – There is a new sheriff in boxing and his name is Darius “DFG” Fulgham (12-0, 10 KOs), the undefeated rising star from Houston already ranked No. 6 in the world by the World Boxing Association (WBA).

“I have such a great team behind me and my job is to fight,” Fulgham spoke about the reason for his mercurial rise. “I trust my manager (3 Point Management – 3 PM) and Golden Boy (his promoter) to get me the best fights. 3 PM has done an amazing job working my career and Golden Boy, too. Together, they’ve kept me extremely active – nine fights in a 12-month span – fighting on big cards on DAZN his last six fights). My team, led by head trainer Darnell Pierce, and my family and friends have given me so much support. I’m blessed!

“I was the first one on my team to see that I was No. 7 in the WBA (he had not previously been rated and has since moved up to No. 6) and I jumped up on my couch streaming about being recognized by one of the four major sanctioning bodies. I still have to fight some of the (world-rated) fighters, but this is a dream come true for me. I was surprised by it (rated so quickly) but not surprised because, all along, I wanted to crack the top ten this year.”

Fulghum returns to the ring on November 2 at Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas, when he takes on Christopher Pearson (17-4-1, 12 KOs) in a 10-round fight.

You will not find the 28-year-old Fulgham calling out the King of the Super Middleweights, Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, nor any fighters rated ahead of him in the WBA such as Edgar Berlanga, Christian Mbilli, Lester Martinez, Erick Bazinyan, and Bektemir Melikaziev. It is not because he doesn’t feel that he can’t beat them.

“I’m not a matchmaker and I don’t pick-and-choose who I fight,” Fulghum explained. I trust my promoter and manager to guide my career. I fight who they put in with me. Nobody knows what Canelo is going to do. He had all four (world title) belts, but he just gave up the IBF. He could retire and open up all the titles in my division. I want to be in position to grab one of those belts, putting my name up there to fight for a belt.

“I do not call anybody out. I don’t deserve to fight Canelo right now; I don’t deserve it right now and would look foolish by calling him out. I haven’t earned it yet. I don’t target other fighters because I don’t want to be perceived as picking and choosing my opponent. I just do my job in the ring. I enjoy what I do, I love it. I feel that I can compete with Canelo and beat anybody else in my division.”

In his most recent fight this past June in Indio (CA), Darius dominated Vaughen Alexander (18-11-1) by scores of 99-91 and 98-92 twice.

Fulghum, though, knows he’s not even close to his prime, yet, and that he has areas to improve in before reaching his peak.

“My skills have improved since I’ve been a pro for three years,” Fulghum concluded, “but the most improvements I’ve made is to better understand myself and the process like how to cut weight the best way, changing my diet, fight night routine, cut off distractions and other things like that because there’s a big difference between fighting as an amateur and pro. I want to be a legend in boxing!”

Fulghum was a decorated amateur boxer who was ranked No. 1 in the USA as a heavyweight, but as a professional he’s fought as a super middleweight. He captured top honors at the 2018 National Golden Gloves Tournament and 2020 U.S. Olympic Team Trials, both of these major amateur accomplishments achieved while he was earning a nursing degree from Prairie View A & M University.

Fulghum is working with 3 Point Management (3 PM), which has a growing stable of gifted boxers including WBA Cruiserweight World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (46-1, 30 KOs), world super flyweight title challenger John “Scrappy” Ramirez (13-1, 9 KOs), and former WBA Inter-Continental Light Heavyweight Champion Kareem “Supreme” Hackett (12-1, 6 KOs).

__________

OVERSEAS BOXING MATCHES

By Per-Ake Persson

 

 

Thrilling Fisticuffs action in Germany and Latvia

William Scull outpoints Vladimir Shishkin to capture IBF super middleweight laurels

October – Falkensee, Germany. Agon Sports and Kuc Boxing again joined forces for a show at the Town Hall in this small town just outside of Berlin this time with a fight for the vacant IBF super middleweight title between German-based Cuban William Scull and US-based Russian Vladimir Shishkin topping the bill.

After a very close, tense and tactical fight Scull (23-0) won a unanimous decision over Shishkin (16-1). The judges had it 116-112, 116-113 and 115-113. Many rounds were difficult to score, and the fight did not break open until the 12th where Scull for a moment looked like he was in trouble. Shishkin went for broke, but the Cuban was able to smother him, and nothing came out of it.

Round after round followed the same pattern with Shishkin, taller and bigger, looking to find the range with his jab and follow up with his right hand. However, Scull, moving very well, showed excellent defense, slipped or blocked the jab and tried to counter with his right – with some success but for the most part Shishkin avoided the punches coming his way. However, in the ninth Scull scored with a right and then a right uppercut – which was the best punch of the night. 

It was a very close fight. I had it 115-114 for Scull and while Shishkin was in it all the way he should have opened up more instead of waiting for openings that never came.

The undercard featured Kuc Boxing’s heavyweights Dusan Veletic (9-1-1) and Sanel Hasanovic (8-1-1) and both won. The hard-punching Hasanovic stopped German-Albanian Christian Demaj (7-4) in fourth while Veletic outscored Czech Tomas Salek (22-6) over ten in a International German title fight.

Former IBF middleweight champ Vincenzo Gualtieri (23-1-1) scored his second win since losing the title to Zhanibek Alimkhanuly and knocked out Argentinian Job Ezequiel Herrera (12-3-1) in the first round.

Middleweight prospect Paul Wall (8-0) stopped Finn Nordeen Toure (12-3) in the seventh of a scheduled eight rounder. It was Wall’s fight all the way except for a brief spell in the fourth. Toure took a beating and finally caved in during the seventh and the referee made a timely stoppage.

…………………………………

October 19 – Riga, Latvia. Argentinian Lucas Basilda (22-3-1) upset Bohdan Sohol (18-1) knocking him out 30 seconds of the eighth and won the IBA Intercontinental fight in the main event of a show billed as Dream Fight but became a nightmare for the local man. Sohol, from Ukraine but based in Latvia, was badly out of it and while he was conscious, he was very unsteady and was dragged out of the ring to be put on a stretcher.

Basilda stunned Sohol in the first, floored him in the second but Sohol seemed to come back after that working well behind his jab and the Argentinian seemed to have punched himself out. However, in the sixth the tide turned again and Sohol seemed to tire and lose focus. Basilda poured it on and stunned his opponent with a right. Sohol staggered backwards but countered with a right and now the Argentinian was forced to hold on. In the eighth Basilda attacked again and Bohdan was a spent force as he staggered into the ropes and now Basilda went for broke and Sohol was out of it with the referee a little too late in stopping it. Sohol finally fell, out of this world and the fight was stopped with no count.

__________

Justin Figueroa, Avious Griffin, Dominique Crowder, Donte Layne & Bruce Seldon Jr. 

Ready to light up The Boardwalk

Streaming live Nov. 16^th on DAZN from Tropicana Atlantic City

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (October 2024) – The next generation of East Coast boxers will be showcased on Boxing Insider Promotions’ November 16^th card, streaming live on DAZN from The Showroom at Tropicana Atlantic City.

This knockout card will feature a combination of blue-chip prospects, rising stars, popular local fighters, and a potential women’s world champion in the future.

Two rising stars fighting on the card are Chattanooga (TN) welterweight Avious Griffin (15-0, 14 KOs) and Baltimore (MD) bantamweight Dominique “Dimes” Crowder (17-0, 10 KOs) in a pair of eight-round bouts.

Griffin, 30, is a heavy-handed former Tennessee State Champion presently riding an eight-fight knockout streak. Trained by Brian “Bomac” McIntyre, Griffin will take on Adrian Gutierrez (12-2-1, 6 KOs) in the main event.

The 30-year-old Crowder, the reigning WBA International bantamweight champion, is rated No. 14 in the world by the WBA and a former New York Golden Gloves Champion. Mark Breland and Jose Guzman train him.

Two other boxers to watch closely are Long Island (NY) super middleweight Donte Layne (4-0, 4 KOs) and Paterson (NJ) junior middleweight Dwyke Flemmings, Jr. (8-0, 8 KOs).

Layne faces Shaquille Cameron (7-3, 6 KOs) in a six-round fight presented in association with Overtime Boxing. The 21-year-old Layne is a gifted southpaw who captured gold medals at the 2022 USA National Championships and National Golden Gloves Tournament, as well as at the 2021 USA Nationals and Junior Pan American Games.

Flemmings, Jr. is a 20-year-old up-and-coming prospect who won a silver medal at the 2018 USA Junior Olympics. He will fight TBA in a scheduled six-round match.

Atlantic City fighters will keep The Boardwalk lit such as electrifying junior middleweight Justin “Mr. Atlantic City” Figueroa (10-0, 8 KOs), legacy heavyweight Bruce “Atlantic City Express 2.0” Seldon, Jr. (3-0, 3 KOs), and undefeated lightweight hopeful Francisco Rodriguez (5-0, 5 KOs).

Figueroa, 25, is matched against Omar Rosales (9-3-1, 5 KOs) in a six-round match. He was a popular football player at Holy Spirit High School and former member of the famed AC Beach Patrol. Figueroa is riding a 10-fight knockout streak.

The 30-year-old Seldon, Jr. is the son of former World Boxing Association (WBA) Heavyweight Champion Bruce Seldon, Sr. (40-8, 36 KOs), known as “The Atlantic City Express” when he fought professionally from 1988 to 2009. Seldon, Jr., who attended Absegami High School, is matched with Zach Calmus (1-1, 1 KO) in a four-rounder.

Rodriguez, 20, has a perfect pro record to date, five victories in five fights, all ending in a knockout. The southpaw has only fought a total of eight rounds, displaying natural power after fighting in The Combat League (TCL) for the Philadelphia Smoke.

The loaded card will also display a bonafide future female title contender, Hawaiian lightweight Shere Mae Patricio (2-0, 1 KO). The 21-year-old Patricio was a gold medal winner at the 2023 USA Women’s National Golden Gloves and 2022 USA Women’s National Championships. She will fight TBA in a four-round encounter.

Boxing Insider Promotions’ power-packed Nov. 16^th event at The Trop also has an international flair, as undefeated Italian junior welterweight Giacomo Michels (8-0, 6 KOs) takes on Ronnell “Punisher” Burnett (11-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round bout. Michels, who fights out of Roma, Lazio, was a standout amateur in Italy, capturing top honors in the 2021 Italian Elite National Championships and U-22 National Championships.

Boxing Insider Promotions promoter Larry Goldberg, an Atlantic City native, is dedicated to bringing boxing back to The Boardwalk. This event will mark his 12^th promotion to date, the third in a row at Tropicana Atlantic City in 2024. After holding six boxing events in New York last year, Goldberg was recently selected as Promoter of the Year by the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.

“It’s amazing to bring local boxing back to Atlantic City with a strong mix of local and regional fighters,” Goldberg said. “I am excited that once again DAZN will be streaming the event and continue showing its commitment to grassroots boxing.”

As always, the card is subject to change.

Ticket prices range between $48.00 and $203.50 and are available for purchase online at  https://www.ticketmaster.com/boxing-insider-live-professional-boxing-atlantic-city-new-jersey-11-16-024/event/02006138C81B4F54?_ga=2.165801022.1645432099.1728316789-537326816.1728316789.

An amateur show will be held at Tropicana Atlantic City the following day (Saturday, Nov. 17 – 1-6 pm ET), sanctioned by USA Boxing. Tickets are $40.00 and 100 percent of the proceeds will be donated to the Atlantic City PAL.

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Boxlab Promotions Announces, “Night of Champions” Card for November 1st in Orlando, FL

ORLANDO, FL (October 21, 2024) – Boxlab Promotions is proud to announce its next “Night of Champions” popular boxing event, set to take place on Friday, November 1, 2024, at the elegant Caribe Royale Hotel in Orlando, Florida. The event will be headlined by a high-stakes 10-round super lightweight main event featuring Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz (17-2-1, 8 KOs) of Worcester, Massachusetts, who will battle for the WBA Continental USA Jr. Welterweight title against an opponent to be announced.

In the co-main event, undefeated super featherweight Kaipo Gallegos (6-0-1, 5 KOs) from Las Vegas, NV, will put his perfect record on the line against the hard hitting, Iron Alvarez (15-2, 11 KOs), from Tampa, FL, in an 8-round bout for the WBO Youth title. The event will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN.

This event is brought to you by Boxlab Promotions in association with CES Sports and Undisputed Promotions. Doors open at 5:00 pm ET with the first bout beginning at 6:00 pm ET. Tickets priced $40 (General Admission), $60 (Standard Admission-4A), $75 (Standard Admission-3A), $100 (Ringside), are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com.

President of Boxlab Promotions, Amaury Piedra, expressed his excitement about the upcoming event, highlighting the significance of the main and co-main bouts, as well as the depth of talent on the undercard.

“We’re excited to bring another sensational night of boxing to the Caribe Royale in Orlando,” said Piedra. “Jamaine Ortiz is a proven warrior with a tremendous skill set, and we’re looking forward to seeing him fight for the WBA Continental USA Jr. Welterweight title. The co-main event is also one to watch with our rising star, Kaipo Gallegos taking on a dangerous puncher in Iron Alvarez, for the WBA Youth title. The entire card is stacked with talent, and we’re confident fans will see some future stars in action on November 1st.”

UNDERCARD BOUTS:

Featherweight Chavez Barrientes (9-0, 6 KOs) from Las Vegas, NV, will face Noah Contreras (9-1, 4 KOs), from Salt Lake City, UT. (8-rounds).

Super lightweight Tayre Jones (11-0, 6 KOs), from Fort Lauderdale, FL, will face Willmank Canonico Brito (12-6-2, 10 KOs), from Caracas, Venezuela. (6-rounds).

Featherweight John Laryea (11-0-1, 11 KOs), from Ghana, will battle Alexandro Mejia (19-9, 8 KOs), from Managua, Nicaragua. (8-rounds).

Super lightweight Danilo Diez (1-0), from Miami, FL, will face an opponent TBA. (4-rounds).

Super middleweight Miguel Brenes Diaz (Pro Debut), from Orlando, FL, will face Caleb Hall (0-1), from Englewood, CO. (4-rounds).

Lightweight Tristan Gallichan (5-0-2, 3 KOs), from Orlando, FL, will battle Malik Lewis (7-1, 5 KOs), from Miami, FL. (6-rounds).

Lightweight Marcus Harris (5-0, 4 KOs), from Lutz, FL, will battle an opponent TBA. (6-rounds).

Lightweight Alex Rios Vega (8-2, 3 KOs KOs), from Saint Cloud, FL, will face Felix Santana (7-1, 3 KOs), from Ocala, FL. (6-rounds).

Super bantamweight Zaveyon Mitchell (Pro Debut), from Orlando, FL, will face Jose Fernandez (0-1), from Orlando, FL. (4-rounds).

Super bantamweight Carlos Lebron (4-1-1, 4 KOs), from Orlando, FL, will face an opponent TBA. (4-rounds)

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Kingsley Ibeh knocked out Jack May in 59 seconds
Official Results from Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, WA

Kingsley Ibeh (L) stopped previously undefeated Jack May on the opening round

TACOMA, Wash. (October 2024) – Nigerian heavyweight Kingsley Black Lion” Ibeh (14-2-1, 12 KOs) turned in the best performance of his pro career in the main event of last night’s “EQC Fight Night,” card presented by Toro Promotions, Inc., and Whitfield Haydon Boxing, in the EQC Event Center at the famed Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington.

In a Clash of the Titans, the 6’ 4”, 273-pound Ibeh only needed 49 seconds to stop 6’ 8”, 257-pound Jack “The Outlaw” May (10-1, 9 KOs) to capture the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) Latino Silver Championship.

The crowd of 2,000, which sold-out one week in advance, was electrified by the main event, in which there was no “feeling out” as Ibeh and May traded bombs from the opening bell. Suddenly, though, Ibeh landed a powerful left cross on May, who was up against the ropes, and “The Outlaw” went down hard, severely knocked at the 59-seconds mark of the opening round.

Ibeh, fighting out of Phoenix, weighed 7-pounds less than for his last fight, 16 fewer than he weighed four fights ago as the former professional football player in Canada won his ninth fight in a row. “The Black Lion” is the cousin of the retired former heavyweight Ike Ibeabuchi.
In the co-featured event, hometown favorite Marquice Weston (16-4-1, 9 KOs) registered a first-round stoppage of heavyweight John Shipman (5-8, 2 KOs) by way of a vicious body shot. It was Weston’s first victory in six years.

Haitian-born lightweight Nesley Trezile (1-1) notched his first pro win in a mild upset with a four-round majority decision over local fighter Agustin Tovar (2-1, 0 KOs). Trezile fights out of Los Angeles.

There was almost a major upset as Antonio Louis “Tswervo” Hernandez (7-19-4, 4 KOs) gave Juan “Just Business” Barajas (11-0-2, 7 KOs) everything he could handle in their six-round match. Hernandez landed clean shots on Barajas, who was coming off a 4-year layoff. Barajas closed the fight strongly, but it wasn’t enough as the judges scored the fight a majority draw.

Illinois junior welterweight Quinn McKenna (1-0-1, 0 KOs) won his first fight as a pro, taking a four-round unanimous decision from Clayton Hibbert (2-3, 2 KOs). Both fighters were hurt in round three as they opened up offensively, leaving both seemingly out on their feet. McKenna, however, was the fresher fighter in the fourth and final round. He had Hibbert on the run to earn his initial victory.

Russian lightweight Samvel Gandilyan (5-0-1, 3 KOs) kept his unbeaten pro record intact with a fourth-round knockout of a game Ezera Rabin.
Official Results below:

OFFICIAL RESULTS
MAIN EVENT – VACANT WBC LATINO SILVER HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Kingsley Ibeh (14-2-1, 12 KOs), Phoenix, AZ by way of Nigeria
WKO1 (0:59)
Jack May (10-1, 9 KOs), Chino Hills, CA
(Ibeh won the WBA Latino Silver Heavyweight title)

CO-FEATURE – HEAVYWEIGHTS
Marquice Weston (16-3-1, 9 KOs), Tacoma, WA
WKO1
John Shipman (5-8, 2 KOs), Dallas, TX

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Juan Barajas (11-0-2, 7 KOs), Victorville, CA
D6 (57-57, 57-57, 56-58
Antonio Louis Hernandez (7-20-3, 4 KOs), Kansas City, MO

JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS
Quinn McKenna (1-0-1. 0 KOs), Naperville, IL
WDEC4 (40-36, 39-37, 39-37)
Clayton Hibbert (2-3, 2 KOs), Los Angeles, CA

LIGHTWEIGHTS
Samvel Gandilyan (5-0-1, 3 KOs), Medvedovskaya, Russia
WTKO4
Ezera Rabin (1-8, 1 KO), Oakland, CA

Nesley Trezile (1-1, 0 KOs), Inglewood, CA by way of Haiti
WDEC4 (39-37, 39-37, 38-38)
Agustin Tovar (2-1, 0 KOs), Auburn, WA

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Unbeaten Lightweight Alejandro Paulino in Crossroads Fight on Nov. 2

Story by Kirk Lang

Photos courtesy of Will Paul/CES Boxing

There comes a time in every young fighter’s career when they must participate in what’s called a “crossroads fight.”

Such fights pit youth versus experience, and the veteran is typically a still viable opponent who can upset the rising star. Get past the veteran and you can take your career to the next level. Fall short and it can kill all the progress you’ve made.

Unbeaten lightweight contender Alejandro Paulino will engage in his crossroads fight on November 2 at Mohegan Sun Casino, when he takes on the talented Toka Kahn Clary, whose only defeat in the last five years was a 10-round decision loss to Shakur Stevenson.

Two of Kahn Clary’s three career losses were to future world champions, Shakur Stevenson and Kid Galahad, and he made it to the final bell in both bouts.

Paulino told The USA Boxing News, “I’m always motivated for my fights but I’m not going to lie. It’s a little extra motivation because he’s 29-3, he’s got the experience, he’s been on the big stages. It is motivating. I’m training super hard for this fight.”

He added, “I try to train hard for all my fights but I’m training extremely hard for this fight. He’s got a lot of experience and I’m really looking forward to seeing what he brings to the table.”

Paulino turned pro in May 2021 and now boasts an 18-0 record with 14 knockouts. Kahn Clary is returning to the ring after a two-year hiatus and is looking to take Paulino’s WBC USA silver lightweight championship.

Paulino’s string of victories has brought him closer to his goal of becoming a world champion boxer. He’s currently rated in the Top 40 at lightweight by the WBC (#37 as of Sept. 19, 2024).

 “Any step-up fight that I need to take, I feel like my team always, they let me know, like, this fight, you’re good.”

He added, “We don’t say not to any fight, but every fight we take is for a step-up, so when we get to that time to fight for a world title, I’ll be ready.”

Paulino believes he’ll truly be ready by the end of next year. The champions in his division are Shakur Stevenson (WBC), Gervonta Davis (WBA), Vasiliy Lomachenko (IBF) and Denys Berinchyk (WBO).

 “This [fight against Kahn] is my first 10-rounder so it’s only up from here,” said Paulino.

Even at this point in his career, Paulino is enjoying the accolades and where his talent has brought him so far.

“It feels great, amazing, that I’m getting this exposure, at this time in my career,” he said. Headlining at Mohegan and Foxwoods, two of the biggest casinos in the country. It’s just getting me ready for when I get to the next stage, and I will not feel pressured, because I will already have experienced it before.”

Paulino has headlined at Foxwoods in the past, but November 2 will mark his first time headlining at Mohegan Sun. Promoted by Rhode Island-based promoter Jimmy Burchfield, and trained and managed by Roland Estrada, the sky is the limit if he stays dedicated to his craft. That should not be a problem. Paulino recently stepped down from his 9 to 5 job to better focus on his blossoming boxing career.

In addition, Paulino used to have to drive from his home in New London, Connecticut to Estrada’s gym in Rhode Island, five days a week, to train.

 “That’s dedication,” said Estrada. However, Paulino will not have to make that trek five days a week anymore.

 “Last winter I decided I’d have to figure something out for him before he burned out,” said Estrada. “I literally bought a 16 x10 shed and made a little house for him and placed it right in the gym driveway. Now he stays there Monday through Friday and goes home on weekends.”

Paulino said Estrada is “the reason I’m where I’m at right now.”

He added, “He’s a great coach, one of the best in the business (and also the father of 2004 Olympian Jason Estrada). He’s the best coach in general, in my eyes.”

Estrada said one of Paulino’s best attributes as a fighter is “his ability to absorb knowledge and listen.”

 “The kid has the goods,” said Estrada. “As we continue to tighten his defense eventually this kid will be a force in the lightweight division. As a person he’s as humble as they get. I often compare him to a young teenager. Young teenagers tend to listen because they think you know everything. As they get older, they think they know more than you. Hopefully he keeps that young mentality.”

Estrada added it’s been a great training camp, and there’s been proper preparation for Kahn Clary, a southpaw (left-handed fighter).

 “Alejandro has already sparred 125 rounds versus southpaws and on November 2 he will shine. Guaranteed.”

One year ago, Paulino was honored by the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame as its Professional Boxer of the Year.

 “It meant a lot,” said Paulino, “Because getting those awards is showing that hard work pays off.”

Paulino can see himself competing at 140 pounds (junior welterweight) in the future, and possibly 147. For right now though, he is focused on accomplishing as much as he can in the lightweight division. He loves the modern greats of the lightweight division, such as Lomachenko and Manny Pacquiao. Going further back in history, Paulino enjoys watching clips of Roberto Duran when he terrorized the 135-pound division.

 “He hit hard,” said Paulino.

Even if one day Paulino becomes one of boxing’s biggest stars, don’t expect him to flash his wealth like “Money” Mayweather.

“Besides a world title, I just want to get a house, get my mom a house, my dad, whatever he wants, and help my family out, to be honest.

 “I just want to be stable. I’m simple. I don’t like all that [flashy] stuff. I don’t even really like cars like that. I just want to win a world title and make enough money, so my parents don’t have to work anymore.”

Tickets for the Nov. 2 CES Boxing card, which features a total of 13 bouts, can be purchased at cesfights.com/tickets.

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Nimal Farmer vs Ghandi Romain Headlines Massive Card on Saturday, October 26th at Harrahs Philadelphia

Undefeated Fighters Semaj Justice, Frankie Lynn, Lemar Smith

Shane Slocumb Takes on Ali Ellis

Karl Wylie and Tyreem Haywood in Action

Philadelphia, PA (October  2024) — A huge night of boxing returns to Harrahs Philadelphia on Saturday, October 26th.

The card is RDR Promotions.

The main event will be a six-round welterweight bout between Nimal Farmer and undefeated Ghandi Romain.

Farmer of Lindenwold, New Jersey is 6-0 with four knockouts. The 24 year-old Farmer is a two-year professional who stopped Borris Nde (4-1) in two rounds. In his latest outing, Farmer took a unanimous decision from Maurice Clemons on August 24th in Philadelphia.

Romain, 27 years-old of Irvington, New Jersey is 5-1 with four knockouts. The one-year pro has won five in a row, which includes a unanimous decision over Dashaun Johns on September 7th in Carteret, New Jersey.

In Six-Round Bouts:

Ray Robinson (25-3-2, 13 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Andre Boyd (10-15-3, 1 KO) of Jacksonville, Florida in a super welterweight bout.

Michael Lee (10-3, 7 KOs) of Newark, New Jersey takes on Nelson Morales (5-16, 2 KOs) of Scranton, PA in a super welterweight battle.

In Four-Round Bouts:

17-year-old Semaj Justice (1-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia Battles Ben Christopher Cook (0-2) of Essex, England in a bantamweight fight.

Frankie Lynn (4-0, 3 KOs) of Chester, PA takes on Antonio Allen (1-17-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia in a welterweight fight.

Devin Price (3-1, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia squares off with Daniel McCall (0-5) of Stone Mountain, Georgia in a super lightweight fight.

Lemar Smith (2-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia takes on Jordan Drayton (0-2) of Brooklyn in a super lightweight bout.

Undefeated heavyweights get it on as RDR Signee Shane Slocumb (1-0, 1 KO) fights Ali Ellis (5-0, 3 KOs) in a battle of Philadelphia based fighters.

RDR Signee Zaire Jefferson will make his pro debut against Rancey Slanger (1-0-1) of Levittown, PA in a light heavyweight fight.

RDR Signee Karl Wylie (1-0) of Coatesville, PA takes on deburring Claudio Hernandez (of Marietta, Georgia in a super featherweight bout.

Tyreem Haywood (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a super featherweight bout.

Tickets are $75, $100, $130 and can be purchased at [email protected]

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Undefeated Super Featherweight Roberto Gomez Set to Shine on Tszyu vs. Murtazaliev Undercard

Story by Leonard Carmichael

ORLANDO, FL (October 2024) – Undefeated super featherweight prospect Roberto Gomez (4-0, 2 KOs) from Dade City, FL, is ready to make a statement when he steps into the ring against tough veteran Jenn Gonzalez (9-25-1, 5 KOs) of Santa Tereza, Nicaragua. The 6-round bout will take place tonight October, 19, 2024, on the undercard of the Tim Tszyu vs. Bakhram Murtazaliev main event at the Caribe Royale Hotel in Orlando, Florida. The event will be broadcast live worldwide on PBC Championship Boxing on Prime Video.

Gomez, a rising star under Boxlab Promotions, is looking to extend his unbeaten streak in front of his home state fans and further solidify his name as one to watch in the super featherweight division. Gonzalez, a seasoned veteran known for his durability and experience, presents a challenging test for the young prospect, but Gomez is confident he will deliver an impressive performance.

“Gonzalez is a veteran who’s been in the ring with a lot of tough guys, and I know he’ll bring that experience with him,” said Gomez. “I’ve been preparing for a hard fight, but I’m also ready to put on a show. I want to make sure everyone watching knows my name after this fight. I’m not just looking for a win—I’m looking to end this fight by knockout.”

“Roberto Gomez is an exceptional talent, and every time he steps into the ring, he shows something special,’ said Amaury Piedra, president of Boxlab Promotions. :We’re thrilled to have him as part of the Boxlab family, and we believe he has what it takes to become a real contender in the super featherweight division. This fight against Gonzalez is another milestone in his journey, and we’re confident he’ll rise to the challenge.”

Gomez will be fighting in front of his home state fans for the second time this year and is expected to have strong support from family and friends.

“Fighting in front of the Florida fans means everything to me,” concluded Gomez.  “I’m from Dade City, so I’ll have a lot of family and friends in the crowd. I’m going to feed off their energy and give them something to cheer about. Every fight is a chance to show what I can do, and I plan on showing that I have the skills to be one of the best in this division. This is the kind of night where memories are made, and I plan to leave a lasting impression. I want people to walk away from this fight talking about me.”

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Story by Robert Zappala

Finally, it appears that the highly anticipated fight of Iron Mike Tyson against Jake Paul is set to go to bat AT&T Stadium on November 15. 

With Jake Paul’s influence and his enormous popularity and Mike Tyson’s legendary past that featured him capturing the undisputed heavyweight Championship of the World and knocking out some of the best fighters in his generation, this fight has created nothing but a huge sensation across the globe.

Leading up the match, Netflix will release a documentary series a week before the fight.

Besides the more interesting facts within the fight itself, the upcoming docuseries “Countdown: Paul vs. Tyson” will also provide unprecedented insight into the 58-year-old former heavyweight champion Tyson’s journey as he prepares to return to the ring.

As the excitement builds, more will come as the fight nears closer to the sound of the bell.

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Heavyweight Dainier Pero Looks to Extend Unbeaten Streak Against Willie Jake Jr. on Tszyu vs. Murtazaliev Card in Orlando

Story by Salvador Ramirez

ORLANDO, FL (October 19, 2024) – Boxlab Promotions’ rising undefeated heavyweight prospect, Dainier “The Fear” Pero (8-0, 6 KOs), is set to face Indianapolis native Willie Jake Jr. (11-5-2, 3 KOs) in an 8-round heavyweight showdown on the undercard of the highly anticipated Tim Tszyu vs. Bakhram Murtazaliev event.

The fight will take place at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida, where Pero aims to continue his unbeaten streak and solidify his status as one of the top prospects in the heavyweight division.

Pero has proven himself as a fierce competitor in the ring and is excited to showcase his skills once again. A victory over Jake Jr. would not only keep his unblemished record intact but further elevate his standing in the highly competitive heavyweight ranks.

“Jake Jr. is a tough opponent, and I know he’ll come in with a lot of heart,” said Pero. “But I’ve been training hard, and I’m ready to show that I’m on another level. A win here keeps my name in the mix as one of the top heavyweights to watch. Training in Las Vegas with Coach Bob Santos has been a game changer for me. The work we put in has sharpened my skills and taken my conditioning to a new level. I’m feeling stronger, faster, and more prepared than ever for this fight.”

“Dainier has shown incredible growth and maturity as a fighter, especially over the past few months training under Bob Santos,” said Boxlab Promotions President Amaury Piedra. “We’re excited to see him take the next step in his career against Willie Jake Jr. This fight will be another opportunity for him to display his skills and power on a big stage, and we’re confident he’ll rise to the occasion.”

Since signing with Boxlab Promotions, Pero has become a fan favorite at the Caribe Royale Hotel, where he has fought his last three bouts, scoring knockouts in each bout.  

“The Caribe Royale has become like a second home to me, and I’m excited to be back fighting here in Orlando,” said Pero. “It’s always great to have the support of the local fans, and I’m looking forward to giving them another great performance. Building my brand in Orlando means a lot to me, and I plan to end the night early with a knockout.”

The October 19, 2024, card headlined by Tim Tszyu vs. Bakhram Murtazaliev promises an action-packed night of boxing, with Dainier Pero’s bout adding to the excitement. Fans can catch the event live on PBC Championship Boxing on Prime Video, as Pero looks to remain undefeated and move one step closer to his goal of becoming a heavyweight contender.

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OVERSEAS BOXING MATCHES

By Per-Ake Persson

 

 

Scandinavian fight weekend in Estonia and Sweden

October 2024- Tallinn, Estonia. Three Norwegian prospects stepped into the ring at the Warrior Fight Club in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, and all three won.

Heavyweight Brage Lange Hansen (3-0) stopped local hero Aleksandr Bolsanovs (1-1) in the third round. Hansen, much taller than his opponent, used his reach well and scored with his heavy right hand. Bolsanovs took it well but caved in during the third and it was stopped.

Lightweight Sayed Kazemi (2-0) outscored Latvian Dinars Skripkins (4-9-2) over four. It was scored 40-36 on all cards after a good, fast-paced fight where Kazemi, a southpaw, worked very hard, too hard perhaps, to get a stoppage win but Skripkins was too slick to get caught.

Finally, light heavyweight Adrian Hagen (2-0) outscored last minute sub Serhii Ksentzov (4-31) by a majority decision – it was scored 39-37 twice and 38-38. Ksentzov flew in from Germany during fight day and had maybe two hours rest before stepping into the ring and did well.

Why fight in Estonia? The answer is simple: Money. Promoting smaller events in Norway is very costly and they have some very strict – and costly – doping rules. 

……………………………

October 2024 – Gothenburg, Sweden. Australian-based Swede Linn Sandstrom (9-3-3) again headlined an Armand Boxing Promotion show that this time was held at the plush Jazy’s Hotel in the center of Gothenburg. Sandstrom outscored Bolivian Camila Campos (6-3) over ten to win the vacant WBA Int’l super flyweight title on scores of 100-90 on all cards – and it was pretty one-sided.

The semi-final fell through when super middleweight Simon Henriksson got ill and was taken to a hospital for suspected myocarditis just two hours before he was to step into the ring against Anatoli Hunanyan.

48-year-old going on 49, Mikaela Lauren (33-7-1) drew with Jordan Barker-Porter (8-3-1) in a messy six-rounder that again underlined that Lauren’s best days are behind her. It was scored 58-56 both ways and 57-57.

Cruiserweight John Salomonsson (3-0) outscored hard punching Czech Martin Sedlak (5-3) over four tough rounds. Salomonsson had a point deducted in the last round for a low blow but had his tiring opponent in trouble by then. It was scored 38-37 twice and 39-36.

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Welterweight Elijah Flores Secures Road Victory Against Omar Rosario and Remains Undefeated

Story by Leonard Carmichael

ORLANDO, FL (October 2024) – Boxlab Promotions’ undefeated welterweight prospect Elijah Flores (9-0, 3 KOs) extended his perfect record with an impressive unanimous decision victory over Omar Rosario (13-2, 4 KOs). The bout, which took place this past Friday, October 11, 2024, at the Coliseo Roger Mendoza in Caguas, Puerto Rico, was part of MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects 9 card, streamed live to boxing fans worldwide on DAZN.

Facing Rosario in his hometown, Flores displayed his grit, determination and superior boxing skills, controlling the pace and securing a decisive win on the judges’ scorecards, handing Rosario his second loss as a professional.

“Defeating a dangerous fighter like Rosario in his hometown is a huge accomplishment for me,” said Flores. “I knew it would be a tough fight, but I came in prepared, and it feels great to get the win in front of such passionate fans. Fighting in Puerto Rico on DAZN was an amazing experience, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to showcase my skills on such a big platform.”

“Elijah’s win against Rosario is a testament to his commitment to always be prepared going into tough fights,” said Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions. “He went into a hostile environment against a very tough, skilled opponent and showed that he belongs at the top of the welterweight division. We’re thrilled with his progress, and the future is very bright for him. We’ll be looking for more big opportunities for Elijah as he continues his rise in the sport.”

Flores reflected on his growth under the guidance of Boxlab Promotions, crediting the team for their support throughout his career. “My career with Boxlab Promotions has been going extremely well. They’ve given me the right opportunities to develop and show what I’m capable of. This win is just another step forward, and I’m excited for what comes next.”

When asked about his future plans, Flores was ready for the challenges ahead. “I’m looking forward to getting back in the gym and continuing to improve. There’s a lot more I want to accomplish, and I’m ready to take on anyone they put in front of me.”

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3-Time, 2-Division World Champion Miyo Yoshida fighting for her boxing legacy at home in Japan

Yoshida to defend her IBF Bantamweight World title Oct. 23 vs. Shurretta Metcalf on ProBoxTV live from The Theater at Madison Square Garden

Story by Robert Zappala

NEW YORK CITY (October 14, 2024) – Three-time, two-division World Champion Miyo Yoshida (17-4, 0 KOs) will out her developing boxing legacy in Japan on the line October 23^rd, when she makes the first defense of her International Boxing Federation (IBF) bantamweight crown against No. 1 contender Shurretta “Chiccn” Metcalf (13-4-1, 2 KOs), at The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

Yoshida vs. Metcalf will headline the “Heroes on the Hudson 2” card, presented by DiBella Entertainment and broadcast live on ProBoxTV,  in the 10-round (2-minutes each) main event to celebrate and support heroic veterans of the United States Armed Forces in advance of Veterans Day in the latest addition of the popular Broadway Boxing series.

One of only 23 female world champions from Japan, the 35-year-old Yoshida is only the sixth from her country to capture world titles in two or more divisions. She captured the World Boxing Organization (WBO) Super Flyweight crown twice in 2019 and 2021.

Japan is a powerbase in men’s professional boxing with contemporary superstars such as Undisputed Junior Featherweight World Champion Naoya “The Monster” Inoue (28-0, 25 KOs) and World Boxing Council (WBC) Bantamweight World Champion Junto Nakatani (29-0, 22 KOs). However, in women’s boxing today, Yoshida is arguably the best from Japan, as well as one of the greatest female prizefighters of all-time from the Land of the Rising Son, behind only retired Japanese fighters Naoko Fujioka (19-3-1, 7 KOs), Japan’s only five-weight class female world champion, and possibly Emiko Raika (24-8-1, 10 KOs).

A single mother of daughter Mina, Miyo is known as the “Fighting Single Mother” in Japan, where she is a revered role model. Yoshida received the 2023 Most Inspirational Female Fighter award from The Ring magazine.

“I hope to further shape the way that was created by our predecessors into a better one for the next generation,” Yoshida said.

To cement her legacy, Yoshida must first get past Metcalf in their rematch, avenging Miyo’s loss by way of 10-round decision a year ago and advance in the Great 8 Tournament to determine the undisputed women’s bantamweight world champion. Fortunately, all of the world bantamweight champions – WBC/WBO & The Ring Champion Dina Thorslund (22-0, 9 KOs) of Denmark, IBF Ellie Scotney (9-0, 0 KOs) from the United Kingdom, and the Yoshida vs. Metcalf winner (their fight technically launches the tournament) – will compete in the Great 8 along with some of the leading contenders such as Cherneka Johnson (16-2, 6 KOs), Yulihan “La Cobritas” Luna Avila (27-4-1, 4 KOs), and Segolene “Majestic” Lefebure (18-1, 1 KO).

“Right now,” Yoshida noted, “I’m only thinking of defending my title belt. I had been hoping for unification fights since I was able to become world champion again. I was impatient with this interval between matches because it is the last chapter due to my age. If I couldn’t compete in boxing, I thought about returning to kickboxing or MMA. I didn’t want to be in between fights, and I thought it would be better for me and for women’s boxing if I became well known.”

“Japan’s boxing scene carries a rich history with a strong cultural connection to its people,” Miyo’s manager Keith Sullivan commented. “Japanese boxers honor a tradition of competitive excellence and outstanding sportsmanship. Miyo embodies these qualities as she fights for the pride of Japan. She is an exemplary champion for her native country.”

Sullivan is a former Deputy Commissioner for the New York State Athletic Commission, who manages IBF and WBA #6 rated welterweight Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (14-0, heavyweight prospect Pryce Taylor (4-0, 2 KOs), and WBC #9 rated super middleweight Nisa Rodriguez (2-0, 0 KOs), amongst several other professional fighters.

Tickets priced between $200 and $55, are available for purchase at: https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/3B00613413292E16?did=yoshida

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Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol set to clash this Saturday for the Undisputed Light heavyweight Championship of the World

Story by Salvador Ramirez

Make no mistake about it- this fight will be the biggest light heavyweight championship since Michael Spinks (WBA Champ) fought and defeated Dwight Muhammad Qawi (WBC Champ) for the undisputed Light Heavyweight Championship of the World at the Atlantic City Boardwalk Hall on March 18, 1983.

Forty-one years later, unbeaten titleholders Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol will square off for 175-pound supremacy light heavyweight title bout – the biggest of this century on Saturday in Saudi Arabia.

Beterbiev (20-0, 20 KOs) will put his IBF, WBC and WBO titles on the line against the WBA belt of Bivol (23-0, 12 KOs) as the pair meet inside of Riyadh’s Kingdom Arena to crown the first four-belt, undisputed champion in divisional history. 

As the fight draws closer, the backgrounds of both fighters are entirely difreent as if on two different planets in the Universe. 

Artur Beterbiev believes the affection shown to him by Montreal’s boxing scene has been a major part of his success ahead of his world title clash with Dmitry Bivol, live on DAZN.

The WBC, IBF, and WBO light-heavyweight champion will face off with his rival in an undisputed world title bout atop the bill at Riyadh Season’s IV Crown Showdown.

Born in Dagestan, the 39-year-old holds Canadian citizenship after he moved to Quebec in 2013 and is one of the most prominent sportsmen to represent the country.

Speaking ahead of his clash with Bivol in Saudi Arabia, Beterbiev praised Montreal’s love for boxing, and acknowledged that he is honoured to fight for them internationally.

“They like sport,” he told DAZN. “They like to watch sport, they like to do sport. I appreciate that they’ve chosen me. It is a different place in the world from where I was born.”

A practising Muslim, Beterbiev also credited his faith for his well-honed routine and professional focus, adding that it has helped steer him on his path to become world champion.

“I don’t know how non-Muslim people live,” he added. “I don’t know. The first time I met my coach Marc Ramsay, he said he would like more Muslim boxers.”

“[He said it] because they have discipline. They don’t drink, they don’t smoke, they go to sleep early.”

Beterbiev is bidding to extend his unbeaten record from 20-0 against Bivol, having secured knockout victories in all of his professional bouts thus far.

But he arguably faces his toughest test against a man also without loss in his career, having also secured famous victories over Joe Smith Jr. and Canelo Alvarez.

Dmitry Bivol has reflected on the influence of his parents as he prepares to bid for the undisputed light-heavyweight championship crown versus Artur Beterbiev, live on DAZN.

The WBA title holder will meet his divisional rival for the first time as they meet in a unification contest atop the bill at Riyadh Season’s IV Crown Showdown on Saturday night.

Bivol, who has secured famous wins over Joe Smith Jr. and Canelo Alvarez across an unbeaten career, is looking to cement his place in boxing immortality.

But he acknowledges he would have not had the chance had his parents not decided to uproot their family from Kyrgyzstan to support his ambitions as a child.

“I cannot tell that they sacrifice all only because of me,” he told DAZN. “They sacrificed for all of my siblings. They knew that we needed a good university.

“Even if it was not sport, it would be abroad, because at that time, you could not see the opportunities [at home]. My parents moved for us all.”

Born to a Moldovan father and Korean mother, Bivol has fond memories of growing up in Kyrgyzstan, and suggests that it has helped shape his outlook on life.

“It was multi-national, multi-cultural,” he added. “In my grade in school, I felt myself as a normal human being. We were friendly with each other. We weren’t separated by culture.”

Bivol will return to the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, for the third time in his career when he faces off with Beterbiev this month.

He will not only be bidding to maintain his unbeaten record, but also to become the first man who has not been knocked out by the three-belt holder in the ring.

Watch Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol, plus the whole l fight card on DAZN Pay-Per-View, which also includes Fabio Wardley, Frazer Clarke, Chris Eubank Jr, Jai Opetaia, Ben Whittaker and Skye Nicolson all fighting.

The PPV is priced at £19.99 for UK viewers.  To purchase and find the prices in your region click here .

Purchasing the PPV includes a seven-day free trial of all of DAZN’s programming across a range of sports.

DAZN is the home of boxing, showing over 150 fights a year, broadcasting a variety of boxing programming – press conferences, weigh-ins, exclusive interviews, documentaries and much more – week in, week out, 52 weeks a year from all around the world, in all divisions, at all levels.

DAZN’s broadcast team includes host Ade Oladipo, who is joined by play-by-play specialist Todd Grisham and expert commentator Chris Mannix.  

The team will also feature two-time Olympic gold medalist Nicola Adams, former world middleweight champion Darren Barker, as well as British boxing star – and recent opponent of Chris Eubank Jr – Liam Smith.

Additionally, former world champion Andy Lee will offer his analysis alongside Barry Jones with reporter Olivia Buzaglo rounding out the line-up. 

Bookmakers made Dmitry Bivol a slight favorite against Artur Beterbiev when they face off in their fight on Saturday 12th October 2024 at Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

He is currently 18/25 (-140) to win the fight outright, while you can get 1/1 (+100) on Artur Beterbiev if you fancy the slight upset.

That means that oddsmakers think there is 54% chance of Bivol winning while giving Beterbiev a 46% chance.

Bivol opened as the favorite at 4/6 (-150) however, that price has shortened by 21/-20 (+100).

Beterbiev opened at 5/4 (+130) which has got wider by -3/4 (+130).

The fight is scheduled for 12 rounds in the Light Heavyweight division, which means both fighters will have to make the weight limit of 175 pounds (12.25 stones or 79.55 kg) on the day of the weigh-in.

This contest is for the undisputed light heavyweight championship of the world, with the WBC, IBF, and WBO belts on the line.

Beterbiev vs Bivol Head To Head

Artur Beterbiev steps into the ring with an undefeated record of 20 wins, zero losses, and 0 draws, 20 of those wins coming by way of knockout.

Dmitry Bivol will make his way to the ring with an unblemished record of 23 wins and 0 draws, with 12 of those by knockout.

The stats suggest Beterbiev has a massive power advantage over Bivol, boasting a 100% knockout percentage compared to Bivol’s 52%.

Bivol is currently 6/1 (+600) to get the knockout.

Artur Beterbiev is the older man by 6 years, at 39 years old.

Beterbiev has a 1-inch reach advantage.

Both Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol fight out of an orthodox stance.

Beterbiev is arguably the less experienced fighter, having had 3 fewer fights, and made his debut in 2013, 1 year and 5 months earlier than Bivol, whose first professional fight was in 2014. He has fought 92 fewer professional rounds, totaling 98 compared to Bivol’s 190.

If you think Bivol will win on points, you can get odds of 11/10 (+110), while Beterbiev is 7/1 (+700) to win on the scorecards.

Artur Beterbiev goes into the fight ranked number 1 by The Ring at light heavyweight.

Dmitry Bivol is currently ranked number 2 by The Ring in the 175lb division.

Beterbiev remains undefeated as a professional, stopping 5 of his recent opponents.

In his last fight, he defeated Callum Smith on January 13, 2024, by technical knockout in the 7th round in their IBF World Light Heavyweight, WBC World Light heavyweight and WBO World Light heavyweight championship fight at Centre Videotron, Quebec City, Canada. He was a 1/5 (-500) favorite going into the fight.

Prior to that, he had defeated Anthony Yarde on January 28, 2023, by technical knockout in the 8th round in their IBF World Light Heavyweight, WBC World Light heavyweight and WBO World Light heavyweight championship fight at Wembley Arena, Wembley, United Kingdom. He was a 1/6 (-590) favorite going into the fight.

Going into that contest, he had beaten Joe Smith Jr on June 18, 2022, by technical knockout in the 2nd round in their WBC World Light heavyweight, IBF World Light Heavyweight and WBO World Light heavyweight championship fight at Madison Square Garden Theater, New York, United States. He was a 13/100 (-770) favorite going into the fight.

Before that, he had won against Marcus Browne on December 17, 2021, by knockout in the 9th round in their WBC World Light heavyweight and IBF World Light Heavyweight championship fight at Bell Centre, Quebec, Canada. He was a 2/25 (-1200) favorite going into the fight.

He had beaten Adam Deines on March 20, 2021, by technical knockout in the 10th round in their WBC World Light heavyweight and IBF World Light Heavyweight championship fight at Khodynka Ice Palace, Moscow, Russia. He was a 1/25 (-2500) favorite going into the fight.

Bivol remains undefeated as a professional, stopping 1 of his last 5 opponents.

In his last fight, he defeated Malik Zinad on June 1, 2024, by technical knockout in the 6th round in their WBA Super World Light Heavyweight championship fight at Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He was a 1/20 (-2000) favorite going into the ring.

Prior to that, he had defeated Lyndon Arthur on December 23, 2023, by unanimous decision in their WBA Super World Light Heavyweight championship fight at Kingdom Arena, Riyadh. He was a 1/25 (-3300) favorite going into the ring.

Going into that contest, he had won against Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez on November 5, 2022, by unanimous decision in their WBA Super World Light Heavyweight championship fight at Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. He was a 17/100 (-590) favorite going into the ring.

Before that, he had defeated Canelo Alvarez on May 7, 2022, by unanimous decision in their WBA Super World Light Heavyweight championship fight at T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, United States. He was a 7/2 (+350) underdog going into the ring.

He had beaten Umar Salamov on December 11, 2021, by unanimous decision in their WBA Super World Light Heavyweight championship fight at KRK “Uralets”, Ekaterinburg, Russia. He was a 1/20 (-2000) favorite going into the ring.

Who’s been more active?

If you think ring rust and activity is a big factor in this fight, Dmitry Bivol has been fighting more than Artur Beterbiev.

Artur Beterbiev last fought 8 months and 29 days ago, while Dmitry Bivol’s last outing was 4 months and 11 days ago.

Beterbiev’s last 5 fights have come over a period of 3 years, 6 months and 22 days, which means he has been fighting approximately every 8 months and 17 days. In those fights, he fought a total of 36 rounds, meaning that they have lasted 7.2 rounds on average.

Bivol’s last 5 fights have come over a period of 2 years, 10 months and 1 day, meaning he has been fighting on average every 6 months and 26 days. In those fights, he fought a total of 54 rounds, meaning that they have lasted 10.8 rounds on average.

• Betting Line

Bivol is currently 6/1 (+600) to finish this fight in the 10th round, or +110 (+110) to win on points.

The fighters are expected to ring walk at around 10:15 PM UTC at Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, which is 6:15 PM EST or 3:15 PM PST on the West Coast of America, or 11:15 PM BST in the UK.

The ESPN+ show is expected to begin at 6:00 PM EST / 3:00 PM PST. The DAZN PPV UK broadcast of the card is expected to start at 7:00 PM (BST).

• Beterbiev vs. Bivol fight card
• Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol
• Chris Eubank Jr. vs. Kamil Szeremeta
• Fabio Wardley vs. Frazer Clarke
• Jai Opetaia vs. Jack Massey
• Ben Whittaker vs. Liam Cameron
• Skye Nicolson vs. Raven Chapman
• Mohammaed Alakel vs. Jesus Gonzalez

• __________

   

  Anthony Joshua wants rematch!

  After his terrible beating where he was knocked down four times against Daniel Dubois – Anthony Joshua is looking to exercise his contractual option for a rematch 

  

  Story by Alex and John Rinaldi

  Wembley Stadium was packed with 96,000 fans, most of whom were hoping to see their hero and former heavyweight king Anthony Joshua demolish Danile Debois and capture his IBF Heavyweight Title, then set up a fight with the ineer of Usyk and Fury.

  The problem is everybody knows that hoping and wishing are like double edge swords, they tend to cut on both sides.  In this fight – the sword went right through the heart of Joshua, leaving him helpless and nearly unconscious on the canvas where the final ten-count was tolled on him like the last rites of a priest before the 5th round ended. 

  The battle ended up like a pure shellacking and Joshua was never really in the fight and all the credit, along with its inherent spoils, all go to the IBF Heavyweight Champion Daniel Dubois. The IBF champ was never afraid or intimidated by Joshua, but instead Debois stalked him like a modern-day Jack the Ripper.

  Unlike a cat who has nine lives, Joshua, unfortunately had only four. And by the fight’s end, Joshua was down four times, once in the 1st, 3rd, 4th and 5th rounds, as his lives swiftly ran out of the ring.

  

  Both fighters square off with each other.

  Regardless of the outcome, neither fighter left the ring a church mouse.

  According to Sporty Salaries, Joshua was guaranteed to take home £6million ($8Million US Dollars) from the fight, potentially rising to as much as £25million ($33 Million US Dollars) depending on PPV sales. Despite winning the bout, Dubois is expected to earn at least £3.5million ($4.67 Million US Dollars), potentially rising to up to £10million ($13.36 Million US Dollars) based on sales.

  Wearing black trunks, Dubois came out from the opening bell swinging punches at Joshua from every angle in the book. The early onslaught seemingly caught Joshua by surprise and was never able to get his fight game going since he was immediately jolted onto the defensive.  With around ten seconds left in the round, Dubois connected with a jarring right to the left side of Joshua’s jaw that deposited the former champion to the canvas on one knee. Rising at three, the fight resumed with Joshua’s legs as steady as a rocking chair in the wind.

  

  The winner Daniel Dubois holding his title bout after his huge victory.

  After the knockdown, chaos swept through Wembley as if the crowd was being attacked by the German blitzkrieg.

  In round three, Dubois connected with a short-left hook to the jaw that sent Joshua reeling into the ropes as his right leg twisted and oddly turned resembling that of a weird Irish jig, eventually dropping to the floor for the second time in the bout. Luckily for Joshua, the bell sounded to grant him a reprieve.

  In round four, Dubois, packing the punch of a blacksmith’s anvil, chased Joshua around the ring and landed another hard left hook that smashed Joshua back to his new home on the canvas, where he rose at the count of four.

  Once again, Joshau was granted a third reprieve.

  Sadly, for Joshua and his fans – it would end up being his last reprieve as his ring executioner was impatiently getting ready to pull the fatal switch.

  Then came round five.

  

  Joshua knocked down in round 4.

  Surprisingly, unlike the previous four frames, when the bell tolled to begin the fifth round Joshua summoned up some courage from his low reserve of guts and went on the offensive landing solid punches to Dubois’ head. When it appeared that the fight was turning into a great slugfest after Joshua scored with two terrific rights to the champion’s head – Dubois countered with a short-direct right to Joshua’s jaw. The punch landed like a grenade, smashing Joshua face-first to the canvas. 

  The referee immediately began the count as Joshua lay lifeless and virtually frozen on the ring floor as the referee finally tolled the fateful ten-count.

  With the win Dubois upped his record to 22-2 (21 KO’s) as Joshua dropped to 28-4 (25 KO’s).

  “I believe I am world class, and it is only a matter of time before I am up there with the big names,” said Dubois. “I am a man on a mission and not going to be stopped. They was all saying I was going to get knocked out and we all saw who got knocked out, and I done the business and I’m glad I proved everyone wrong, but this is the start of my journey.” 

  As for Joshua, he made no excuses after his tragic loss, “I’m always saying to myself I’m a fighter for life… We keep rolling the dice, I had a sharp opponent, a fast opponent and a lot of mistakes from my end, but that’s the game.”

  

  Dubois (R) rocking Joshua (L) with a blazing right cross.

  Johusa’s promoter Eddie Hearn looks for a rematch.

  “Rematch clauses come in many different forms,” Hearn said. “We have a fight with Riyadh Season. One of our options is to fight Daniel Dubois again, and our contract is with them. His Excellency [Turki Alalshikh] will deal with Frank and Daniel and make that fight happen. The terms will have to be agreed with them. We have already agreed our terms, we have the option to rematch with Dubois. Our meetings with His Excellency, he wants the rematch. AJ will always want the rematch. Daniel wants the rematch too, it’s the biggest fight for him and they will fancy it. It is a case of going away and talking about, do we go straight into the rematch? And when will it be?”

  While many in the boxing world suggested Joshua should consider retirement, luckily, he has defiantly insisted he still has more to give.

  The USA Boxing News agrees. Joshua still has some power plus many big-time fights ahead of him. Preferably a fight with Deontay Wilder can now be considered.

  But first it appears that he may elect to face the buzzsaw blows of Daniel Dubois again.

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Undefeated Elijah Flores Steps Up Against Dangerous Opponent Omar Rosario Tonight in Puerto Rico

Story by Robert Zappala

CAGUAS, PUERTO RICO (October 11, 2024) – Boxlab Promotions’ undefeated welterweight prospect Elijah Flores (8-0, 3 KOs), from San Bernardino, CA, is set for a high stakes showdown against Omar Rosario (13-1, 4 KOs) in his opponent’s hometown of Caguas, Puerto Rico. The bout takes place tonight, Friday, October 11, 2024, at the Coliseo Roger Mendoza as part of MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects 9 card, streaming live to boxing fans worldwide on DAZN.

Flores, known for his high ring IQ, is eager to return to Puerto Rico for the second time this year, where he aims to build upon his unbeaten record against a tough challenger in Rosario. This will be a major step up fight for Flores, but one he believes he will win.

“Fighting in Puerto Rico for the second time this year is a huge honor.” Flores said. “The fans here are incredibly passionate, and I’m excited to perform in front of them again. It’s always special to experience the energy they bring. Facing Rosario in his hometown is no easy task, but I believe I have the skills and the determination to get the job done.

“Elijah has shown incredible growth over the past year, and we believe he has everything it takes to come out victorious against a tough opponent like Rosario,” said Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, as he expressed his confidence in Flores’ ability to deliver a standout performance against Rosario. “We’re confident that his hard work, dedication, and focus will be on display tonight in Puerto Rico.”

I’ve put in the work, and I’m ready to show up and show out,” concluded Flores. “A win here will take my career to the next level and show that I’m ready for even bigger opportunities. I can’t wait to till the bell rings, I’m ready to shine.”

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Camp Get Right Boxing Gym continuing Worcester’s rich boxing history

“Worcester Championship Boxing”

Nov. 1 at DCU Event Center in Worcester, MA

QUINCY, Mass. (October 2024) – Camp Get Right Boxing Gym, owned and operated by Ken Ball, Sr., during the past 16 years has developed into not only the place to go for pro and amateur boxers in Greater Worcester, but it is also inarguably one of the premier boxing facilities in all of New England.

Worcester’s rich boxing history dates back one-hundred years. Central Massachusetts city has produced two world champions, one Olympian and numerous professional and amateur fighters in the elite category.

Four current products of Camp Get Right will be on display November 1^st at the famed DCU Center as Granite Chin Promotions (GCP) presents the “Worcester Championship Boxing” card, in Worcester, Massachusetts.

“The DCU Center is a good venue, and this card has a lot of good fighters on it,” Ball said. There won’t be a lot going on that night, so people should attend to check out these local fighters. I think the success we’ve had at Camp Get Right is due to veteran trainers like Daniel Almonte, who has trained a couple of world champions, and Chico Lopez, and Carlos Garcia (“The Godfather of Worcester boxing”) has come by our gym to help since he retired (as boxing director at the Worcester Boys & Girls Club).”

Bell will be involved with several of the fighters from his gym who will be in action Nov. 1, either as a trainer, cutman or manager, led by veteran Khiary “TooSharp” Gray (18-7, 13 KOs), who Ball serves as head trainer. Gray, who is a former New England and UBF International champion, is scheduled to fight junior middleweight Daniel “The Hudson Valley Kid” Sostre (13-26-2, 5 KOs) in a six-round match.

Gray said, “TooSharp’ Khiary Gray is coming back to make it known that nothing’s going to hold me back from being world champion.”

Millbury (MA) welterweight Justin LaPorte (1-0, 1 KO), a two-time New England Golden Gloves champion, is a licensed realtor (Justin LaPorte Agency) who served in the U.S. Marines, and presently studies at Nichols College. The 24-year-old southpaw is trained at Camp Get Right by one of Worcester’s all-time best boxers, Sean “Fitzy” Fitzgerald. He faces Rakim Johnson in a four-rounder.

LaPorte said: “I’m really excited and grateful to fight in the DCU Center. It’s a venue with a rich history of great fights and fighters, and I can’t wait to put on a show right in my hometown. My preparation has been solid, and I’ve been working harder than ever to improved so I can deliver and even better performance than in my professional debut.”

Worcester junior middleweight Jhon “D-Wave” Devers Rodriguez (1-0, 1 KOs), also a two-time New England Golden Gloves champion, was born in Puerto Rico and moved to the U.S. when he was seven, followed two years later by his resettlement in Worcester. Trained at Camp Get Right by Mickey Ramos, “D-Wave” started boxing six years ago.

“Rodriguez said: “I’m feeling great and I’m excited to be part of a big hometown event. I’m training hard, focused, and disciplined. Working at The Gun Parlor and training are my two main focuses. I’m also practicing more and perfecting everything with my coach, Michael Ramos.”

The oldest and most popular Worcester boxer right now is welterweight “Grafton Hill’s Favorite Son” Dan Docimo (1-0, 1 KO), who meets Jaequez Jones (0-3) in a four-round fight. The 36-year-old Docimo has been a locksmith for the past 17 years for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. He is trained at Camp Get Right by Owen Minor, who Ball trained as a boxer.

Docimo said: “I will have Owen and Rashad Minor in my corner as head trainer and cutman. And Peter Manfredo, Jr. (retired boxer and world title challenger from Providence) will be my chief second. I’m blessed to be here. It’s an honor to have these men believe in me. We’re going to prove over and over again that, as Worcester’s oldest registered boxer, old dogs can still hunt.”  

For business reasons, Camp Get Right is moving into a new location in a few weeks, prior to the show, to 376 West Boylston Street in Worcester.

Another Worcester fighter, Jake Paradise (8-3, 8 KOs), takes on undefeated Kevin “Big Gulp” Nagle (9-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round bout for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) USA Silver Heavyweight Championship.

The stacked GCP event is headlined by a great 10-round main event as Josniel “TG” Castro (13-1, 8 KOs), fighting out of Boca Raton (FL), defends his newly captured WBC U.S. super welterweight title versus undefeated challenger and reigning Junior North American Boxing Federation champion Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (14-0, 8 KOs), of Holyoke, Massachusetts. Ball will be in Castro’s corner.

Card subject to change.

Tickets are on sale at www.ticketmaster.com. Doors open at 6 pm ET, first bout at 7 pm ET.

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Training Camp Notes – Undefeated Featherweight Carlos Delon Castro Ready for Puerto Rican Debut

SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO (October 2024) – Boxlab Promotions’ undefeated featherweight rising star, 19-year-old Carlos Delon Castro (1-0, 1 KO), is set to make his highly anticipated debut in Puerto Rico. The rising star from San Juan will face fellow unbeaten prospect Levale Whittington (1-0-1, 1 KO) from Chicago, IL, in a 4-round bout on the Most Valuable Prospects 9 card. The event takes place at the Coliseo Roger Mendoza in Castro’s birthplace of Caguas, Puerto Rico, on Friday, October 11, 2024, and will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN.

With his second professional fight fast approaching, Castro provided insight into his training camp, his thoughts on the upcoming matchup, and his excitement to perform in front of his home crowd.

On his recent training camp with his father / coach Carlos De León Hernandez:

“This camp has been special for me, training alongside my father, Carlos De León Hernandez. He’s always been my biggest supporter and teacher and having him by my side every step of the way gives me extra confidence. We’ve put in a lot of hard work, and I’m feeling stronger and sharper than ever.”

On his matchup with fellow undefeated foe Levale Whittington:

“I know Levale Whittington is coming in with his own undefeated record, and that makes this fight even more exciting. I’ve prepared for a tough challenge, but I’m confident in my skills and the game plan we’ve set up. It’s going to be a great fight, and I’m ready to show everyone what I can do.”

On making his debut in his native land of Puerto Rico:

“Making my debut in Puerto Rico is a dream come true. To be able to fight in front of my people in Caguas, where I was born, means everything to me. The support from the fans here is incredible, and I’m going to give them a performance they won’t forget. I’m grateful to represent Puerto Rico, and I plan to make everyone proud on October 11.”

On what a win will do for his career:

“A win in this fight would be huge for my career, especially being able to do it in Puerto Rico. It’s an opportunity to show that I’m one of the best young fighters coming up in the division. With a strong performance, I know that more doors will open for me, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”

“We’re thrilled to have Carlos Delon Castro as part of our team and to bring him back to Puerto Rico for his debut on the island,” said Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions. “Carlos has all the qualities to become the next big star from Puerto Rico – he’s talented, disciplined, and has a tremendous work ethic. We believe October 11 will be the start of something special, and we’re excited to be part of his journey.”

Fans can expect an electrifying night of boxing when Castro takes on Whittington on October 11, as part of the action-packed Most Valuable Prospects 9 card. The event will be available to DAZN subscribers around the world, showcasing the next generation of boxing talent.

 

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Kinsley Ibeh vs. Jack May

Battle for WBC Latino Silver Heavyweight title

Oct. 19 at Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, WA

LOS ANGELES (October 7, 2024) – A classic Clash of Titans-like confrontation will headline “EQC Fight Night,” presented by Toro Promotions, Inc., and Whitfield Haydon Boxing, on Saturday night, October 19, in the EQC Event Center at the famed Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington.

The 6’ 4”, 290-pound Kinsley “The Black Lion” Ibeh (12-2-1, 10 KOs) meets 6’ 8”, 260-pound Jack “The Outlaw” May (10-0, 9 KOs) in the 10-round main event for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) Latino Silver Championship.

Nigeria-native Ibeh, fighting out of Phoenix (AZ), is a former college and Canadian Football League player, as well as a cousin of notorious retired boxer Ike Ibeabuchi (20-0, 15 KOs). Ibeh is riding an eight-fight win streak since he lost to then-7-0 rising star Jared Anderson in 2021. Ibeh’s most recent action was this past June 15th, in which he stopped Juan Torres in the second round, also at Emerald Queen Casino.

Fighting out of Chino Hills, California, May has reeled off ten straight victories, nine decided by knockouts. May is a combat sports fighter who has also kickboxed and fought in bare knuckles competition. May’s last fight was an opening round technical knockout of John Shipman this past August 29 in Costa Mesa, California.

“They are both true warriors,” matchmaker Whit Haydon said. “When the fight was offered, they only asked when and where, and that they will be there with bells on. The place is almost sold out, so the great Northwest fans, and believe me when I say they ae the best, will be in for sights and sounds to behold.”

Ibeh and May are both members of Toro’s growing stable of solid heavyweights along with Ukraine Olympian Tsotne “Mr. T” Tsotne (10-0, 7 KOs), Alexander “The Great” Flores (19-5-1, 17 KOs), and Dante Stone (17-1, 11 KOs). Unlike other promoters, though, Toro isn’t concerned about matching their fighters against each other like Ibeh and May, and Tsotne recently defeated Flores by way of a 10-round unanimous decision.

Additional fights will soon be announced. Card subject to change.

Tickets are on sale now, ranging between $313.00 and $78.00 and may be purchased online at https://www.ticketsonsale.com/tickets/fight-night-(21+-event)-emerald-queen-casino-tacoma-10-19-2024-5237492 or by calling (253) 594-7777.  Tickets purchased at the Emerald Queen Shop are eligible for up to a 20-discount, plus no taxes or processing fees. Must be 21 years of age to attend. 

Doors open at 6 p.m. PT, first bout at 7 p.m. PT.

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Euri Cedeno Shines with 2nd Round TKO Over Aro Schwartz

Middleweight Prospect Scores Impressive Win at Wind Creek Events Center

Story by Salvador Ramirez

BETHLEHEM, PA– Undefeated middleweight prospect Euri Cedeno (10-0-1, 9 KOs) from La Romana, Dominican Republic, delivered a dominant performance, stopping experienced veteran Aro Schwartz (23-7-1, 15 KOs) from Baden-Württemberg, Germany, via 2nd round TKO last Friday, September 20, 2024, at the Wind Creek Events Center in Bethlehem, PA. The bout was streamed live on bxngtv.com and showcased Cedeno’s growing reputation as one of the most dangerous middleweights on the rise.

Cedeno came out strong from the opening bell, displaying his power and precision, overwhelming Schwartz early in the fight. By the second round, Cedeno unleashed a flurry of punches, leaving the referee no choice but to step in and call a halt to the contest. The fight was halted at the 0:43 mark of round two.

“I came into this fight with the mindset to finish it early,” said Cedeno. “I had an excellent training camp, and I felt sharp from the moment the bell rang. Each fight, I’m improving, and tonight was a reflection of that. I believe I’m one of the top up-and-coming middleweights in the world, and this win is just the beginning. It’s going to open a lot of doors for me in the division.”

Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, conveyed his enthusiasm about Cedeno’s performance. “Euri showed tonight that he’s ready to take on tougher challenges by taking out an experienced fighter like Schwartz in such dominating fashion. His power and poise in the ring are incredible, and with my partner Marshall Kauffman of Kings Promotions, we’re confident we can guide Euri to the top of the middleweight division.”

“I’m ready to step up and fight the best middleweights in the world,” concluded Cedeno. “My time is coming and I’m ready to take on all challenges. The boxing world will know my name sooner or later.”

Cedeno’s impressive victory further cements his status as one of the brightest prospects in the sport, with fans and boxing insiders eager to see what comes next for the undefeated Dominican talent.

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James Bernadin Wins Majority Decision over Matt Conway In Fight of the Year Classic

Story by Alexander Rinaldi

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – In what is surely one of the best fights of 2024, James Bernadin won a eight-round split decision over Matt Conway in a war in front of an enthusiastic crowd at Wind Creek Event Center.

The fight headlined a seven-bout card promoted by King’s Promotions.

The fight was fought in the pocket from the opening bell. Bernadin was able to establish himself with the harder punches, but Conway not only took them, but it seemed to only spur him on and light a fire underneath him.

The right eye of Conway started to swell as early as round two., and eventually closed later in the fight.

That did not deter the Pittsburgh native as he continued to fight back and have success with his flurry punches. The two battled down the stretch which was much to the delight o all who were in attendance

To no surprise, the eighth and final round saw the two toe-to-toe for the whole three-minute period had deservedly had the fans on their feet for several minutes following the final bell.

Bernadin of Lancaster, PA won by scores of 78-74, 77-75 and 76-76 and his record is now 13-2-1. Conway of Pittsburgh is 22-5.

Good looking middleweight Euri Cedeno stopped Aro Schwartz at 43 seconds of round two of their eight round bout.

Cedeno of the Dominican Republic is 10-0-1 with nine knockouts. Schwartz of Germany is 23-9-1.

Joseph Adorno stopped Luis May at the end of round two of their eight-round super lightweight bout.

Adorno of Allentown, PA is 20-4-2 with 17 knockouts. May of Mexico is 22-19-1.

Julian Gonzalez remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Oscar Barajas in a junior lightweight bout.

Gonzalez of Reading, PA won by scores of 78-74 twice and 77-75. Barajas of Toms River, NJ is 7-10-1.

Adam Atiyeh won a four-round unanimous decision over Jonathan Wiles in a heavyweight bout.

Atiyeh of Bethlehem, PA won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 2-0. Wiles of Philadelphia is 0-.

Brittany Sims stopped former world champion Nancy Franco in round one of their eight-round bantamweight bout.

Sims of Salem, Oregon is 7-3 with four knockouts. Franco of Mexico is 19-21-2.

Devon Young remained perfect with a first round stoppage over Kaleb Slaughter in a heavyweight bout.

Young of Aiken, SC is 5-0 with four knockouts. Slaughter of Cincinnati is 4-10-1.,

TO WATCH THE SHOW INCLUDING THE BERNADIN – CONWAY FIGHT OF THE YEAR CANDIDATE CLICK HERE

Photo by David Algarnati

 

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Muhsin Cason Takes on Alvin Varmall Jr. on Saturday, November 2nd at The Scottish Rite Auditorium in Collingswood, New Jersey

James Martin Takes on Delen Parsley Undefeated Fighters Battle as Aaron Anderson Fights Martin Sollano

Plus Undefeated Jaclyne McTamney and Paul Koon

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

COLLINGSWOOD, NEW JERSEY — On Saturday night November 2nd, Teflon Promotions will stage a big night of boxing at The Scottish Rite Auditorium in Collingswood, New Jersey.

In the six-round main event, undefeated cruiserweight Muhsin Cason takes on Alvin Varmall Jr.

Cason of Philadelphia via Las Vegas, has a record of 12-0 with nine knockouts. The 30 year-old Cason is a six-year veteran and has wins over Nathaniel Copeland (1-0), Montez Brown (8-1) and his last bout when he stopped Lamont Capers in two rounds on April 27th Philadelphia.

Varmall of Catskill, New York is 17-1 with 14 knockouts. The 32 year-old is a 11 year-professional and has wins over Antonio Mignella (3-0) and Jesse Vice (1-0),. In his last outing, Varmall stopped Billy Cunningham in four-rounds on August 19, 2023 in Biloxi, Mississippi.

The co-feature will be a six-round super welterweight bout between James Martin (10-4) of Philadelphia. and Delen Parsley (13-2, 4 KOs) of Brooklyn, New York.

In Four-Round Bouts:

Tariq Green (5-2-2, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Keithland King (5-2, 5 KOs) of Washington, New Jersey in a middleweight bout.

In a battle of undefeated super welterweights, Aason Anderson (6-0, 4 KOs) of Dundalk, Maryland squares off with Martin Sollano (5-0, 2 KOs) of Amarillo, Texas .

Ashwin Trail (0-1) of Pennsylvania fights debuting Julio Dos Santos of AMarillo, Texas in a heavyweight bout.

Undefeated fighters in featherweight Jaclyne McTamney (2-0, 1 KO) of Southampton, PA and heavyweight Paul Koon (4-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will see action against opponents to be named.

Tickets for this outstanding evening are priced between $75 and $200 and can be purchased at the following link.

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ROY JONES JR BOXING 

Results from Legends Casino Hotel, Yakima Washington

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TWO EXCITING SHOWDOWNS ADDED TO PBC CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING ON PRIME VIDEO

 EVENT SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19 HEADLINED BY BAKHRAM MURTAZALIEV VS. TIM TSZYU WORLD TITLE CLASH FROM THE CARIBE ROYAE RESORT IN ORLANDO, FL.

Undefeated Cuban Prospect Yoenis Téllez Takes on

Hard-Hitting Johan González in Co-Main Event

Unbeaten Rising Middleweight Mateo Tapia Faces

KO Artist Endry Saavedra in Opening Bout at

8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

Three-Fight Lineup Streams Exclusively on Prime Video for All Prime Members in the U.S. & Select Countries

ORLANDO, FL. –  Two showdowns featuring rising contenders looking to make big statements against power-punching veterans have been added to the PBC Championship Boxing on Prime Video event taking place Saturday, October 19 headlined by Australian superstar and former world champion Tim Tszyu facing unbeaten IBF Super Welterweight World Champion Bakhram Murtazaliev live from the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida.

The co-main

 event will feature undefeated Cuban prospect Yoenis Téllez battling knockout artist Johan González in a 10-round super welterweight tilt, while undefeated middleweight contender Mateo Tapia steps in to face the hard-hitting Endry Saavedra in the 10-round opening bout at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The action will stream exclusively on Prime Video for all Prime members in the United States and select countries. Join today or start a free 30-day trial to catch the championship card.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through Ticketmaster. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing and Main Events.

“PBC Championship Boxing on Prime Video will kick off October 19 with two bouts featuring undefeated fighters in tough matchups, all leading up to the explosive showdown between Tim Tszyu and Bakhram Murtazaliev,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Yoenis Téllez can add his name to the star-studded lineup of top contenders at 154-pounds against the heavy-handed Johan González, while Mateo Tapia sits ready to make noise at middleweight if he can get by the streaking Endry Saavedra in the opening bout. Make sure to tune into Prime Video or come out to the Caribe Royale in Orlando for what lines up to be a night of top to bottom action.”

**YOENIS TÉLLEZ VS. JOHAN GONZALEZ**

The latest young standout from boxing-rich Cuba, Yoenis Téllez will return to fight at the friendly confines of the Caribe Royale for the fifth time in his young career, as he looks to impress against the hard-hitting Johan González in a 10-round super welterweight showdown.

Trained by the legendary Ronnie Shields in Stafford, Texas, the 24-year-old Téllez (8-0, 6 KOs) stepped in on short notice in July of last year to dominate veteran contender Sergio Garcia and earn a third-round TKO on the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Terence Crawford undercard. Originally from Santiago de Cuba, Cuba, Téllez has continued to rise in two subsequent bouts, both of which took place at Caribe Royale in Orlando. In December 2023 he closed the show in style with a 10^th-round TKO of Livan Navarro, and most recently he earned a unanimous decision over the previously unbeaten Joseph Jackson in April of this year.

“Fighting an experienced fighter like Johan González is a great opportunity to show the world what I’m made of,” said Téllez. “He’s fought at the elite level and I’m expecting a tough fight. I’m going to leave everything in the ring. On October 19 I’m going to be at my best to put on a great performance and give all the fans tuning in a great night of boxing. The Caribe Royale will be on fire.”

A native of Valencia, Venezuela who now trains in Las Vegas, González (34-3, 33 KOs) bounced back from a May defeat against top super welterweight contender Jesus Ramos by stopping Ivan Herrera in two rounds in August. González made his stateside debut in 2023 as he earned a pair of victories in the U.S., first stopping Ricardo Villalba in August before defeating Guido Schramm in November. The 33-year-old won those fights to bounce back from a close 2022 decision defeat to former world title challenger Magomed Kurbanov. A pro since 2017, González won his first 22 bouts before dropping a split decision in 2018.

“This fight is everything for me, it’s a must-win,” said González. “I’m working hard every day to make sure I leave with my hand raised. My only focus right now is doing everything possible to keep pushing my career forward. I have one mission, victory on October 19.”

 

**MATEO TAPIA VS. ENDRY SAAVEDRA**

A longtime friend and sparring partner of Tim Tszyu, Mateo Tapia will compete stateside in the U.S. for the second time as he takes on Endry Saavedra, who’s last seven victories have come by knockout. Tapia and Saavedra will duel in a 10-round middleweight clash that opens the live streaming presentation on October 19.

The 26-year-old Tapia (17-0, 10 KOs) was born in Tijuana, Mexico and has spent much of his career fighting out of Australia, where he put in over 500 rounds of sparring against Tszyu. Now training out of St. Petersburg, Florida, Tapia hopes to push himself closer to a world title with a victory over Saavedra. Tapia made his U.S. debut in October 2023 with a stoppage victory over Eric Robles, and followed that up with a 10-round unanimous decision over Keiber Gonzalez in Australia in April.

“This fight is a huge opportunity for me and I’m here to take it with both hands,” said Tapia. “I’m thrilled to be fighting on Tim Tszyu’s card and I’m thankful to my team for making this happen. It’s been a long camp and I’ll definitely be ready when that bell rings on October 19. I’m looking forward to displaying my skills and proudly representing both Australia and Mexico on the world stage. Bring it on.”

Originally from Venezuela and now fighting out of Tijuana, Mexico, Saavedra (16-1, 13 KOs) enters this fight having knocked out three straight opponents since the only defeat of his career, an October 2022 decision against Etoundi Michel William. The 33-year-old turned pro in 2018 and won his first 13 bouts after an extensive amateur career that saw him fight around the world against a bevy of future pro contenders. Saavedra most recently traveled to Australia in March and stopped Isaac Hardman on his home turf in round eight of a fight he trailed on two of three scorecards.

“I can’t wait to take advantage of what’s in front of me on October 19,” said Saavedra. “I plan on showing the world why I belong at the top of the middleweight division. I’m facing a tough Australian fighter who represents Mexico, so I’m expecting a war, just like I bring to every fight. You won’t want to miss this one.”

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Kevin Nagle & Jake Paradise throwdown for vacant WBC USA Silver Heavyweight title 

“Worcester Championship Boxing”

Nov. 1 at DCU Event Center in Worcester, MA

QUINCY, Mass. – Massachusetts heavyweights Kevin “Big Gulp” Nagle (9-0, 7 KOs) and Jake Paradise (8-3, 8 KOs) have taken completely different routes in life to get where they are as opponents on November 1^st on the “Worcester Championship Boxing” card, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), at DCU Event Center in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Nagle and Paradise are matched in an eight-round bout for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) USA Silver Heavyweight Championship. Neither fighter has fought more than six rounds as prize fighters.

The GCP event will be headlined by a the 10-round main event, as Josniel “TG” Castro (13-1, 8 KOs), fighting out of Boca Raton (FL), defends his newly captured World WBC U.S. super welterweight title versus undefeated challenger and reigning Junior North American Boxing Federation champion Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (14-0, 8 KOs), of Holyoke, Massachusetts.

“Both guys have an incredible personal backstory filled with struggles and adversity,” GCP promoter Chris Traietti commented. “I applaud both guys for the success in their personal struggles, I sincerely mean that, but November 1^st is a match for a regional WBC title. None of the other stuff matters once that bell rings and we will find out which guy is moving on and which guy gets exposed. I have had a lot of harsh criticism about Jake Paradise’s ring boxing journey. He has an opportunity to shove all my words back in my face. I will say, regardless of the outcome, I will have a different level of respect for him getting on the ring with Kevin.”

Nagle, who fights out of Scituate (MA) fought as an amateur, but he didn’t turn pro until many years later, after he and his wife separated, which led “Big Gulp” back into the gym. A psychiatric nurse at the VA in Brockton (MA), Army veteran Nagle was deployed twice in Kosovo and he also volunteered for duty in Iraq. He is trained by Steve Vukosa, who was 14-1-1 as a heavyweight.

“I never thought I would fight for a major organization’s title like the WBC,” Nagle said. “I’m proud to have this opportunity and I hope it goes well so my kids can look back at the achievement. My opponent is naturally smaller (30-pounds difference) and faster, so I think he will try to keep the tempo fast. I’m prepared to fight the eight-round distance if necessary. I’ve been training for this one day at a time.”

Paradise, 30, will be fighting at home in Worcester, where Bruce Alston trains him. Paradise is a fighter who has overcome numerous obstacles, including drug addiction, homelessness, suicidal depression anxiety.

“It feels incredible to be fighting for this title because it is what I’ve dreamed of,” Paradise commented. “My opponent brings size and strength into the ring. He is a big, strong guy and I’m taking this fight extremely seriously. I have nothing but respect for Kevin. He served his country – I thank him for that – and it is an honor to be in there with him. It’s going to be a war! My career has been up and down but that’s how my life has been and what built me into the man and fighter I am today. I might fall down but when I get up, hell’s coming with me. Everything the streets have thrown at me, I know I’ve been through more to get there, and I will stand across from a man who bleeds like me. I’ve gone through the darkness, but I’ve always had the faith that I could make it out. I want to stand tall and represent the underdogs in the world who have messed up, been counted out, and talked down to their whole life. Kids who don’t see a way out need to keep fighting like I have.”

Nothing can be determined from their common opponents – Tadeau Costa and Aquilla Prote – because Nagle knocked out Costa twice, Paradise did likewise in their only fight, and both stopped Prote.

However, both have overcome odds and despite the final outcome, they’re both winners.

Additional bouts, including several matches showcasing other Worcester-based boxers, will soon be announced. Card subject to change.

Tickets are on sale at www.ticketmaster.com. Doors open at 6 pm ET, first bout at 7 pm ET.

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Story by Tyrone Cartwright

LONG BEACH, CA  – CBN Promotions’ undefeated super welterweight “Nuckle” Nelson Oliva (11-0, 8 KOs), from Los Angeles, CA, is scheduled to fight in a 8-round the main event attraction against Alfonso Olvera (13-8-3, 5 KOs), from Tucson, AZ. The fight will take place this Saturday, September 21, 2024, at Thunder Studios in Long Beach, CA. The event is part of CBN Promotions’ upcoming card, which will be televised, showcasing the next generation of boxing talent.

After a solid training camp, here is what Oliva had to say about his upcoming matchup with Olvera, fighting at home, and what a win will do for his career.

On his recent training camp:

“This training camp has been intense. My team and I have been working hard on everything from conditioning to sharpening my skills in the ring. We’ve focused on getting stronger and faster, making sure I’m ready to go the full 8 rounds if needed. I feel like I’m in the best shape of my career.”

On his matchup with Alfonso Olvera:

“Olvera is a tough, experienced fighter. He’s been in the ring with a lot of solid opponents, so I know he’ll be durable and come to fight. But I’ve been preparing for every style, and I’m confident I can outbox him and impose my will. I’ll be ready for whatever he brings.”

On fighting in the main event in his hometown of Southern California:

“It’s always a blessing to fight in the main event here in Southern California. I grew up in L.A., so having all my friends, family, and supporters in the crowd is going to give me that extra motivation. I’m looking forward to putting on a great show for them.”

On what a win will do for his career:

“A win here will definitely take my career to the next level. I’ve been working hard to get to this point, and beating Olvera in the main event will show everyone that I’m ready for bigger fights. This victory will put me on the map and open the door to big fights in the future.”

The entire event will be broadcast live to 160 million homes across multiple networks, including Fubo Sports, Fox Deportes, Stadium, Gray TV, and will be tape delayed on Estrella TV, ensuring that fight fans everywhere can witness the excitement.

Doors open at 5:30 pm PT with the first fight starting at 6:30 pm PT. Tickets 

priced $60 and $90 (Plus applicable fees), are available for purchase now by calling by calling 800-283-8699, by text at 702-591-1638, or online at www.cbnpromotions.com. Thunder Studios is located at 20434 S Santa Fe Ave, Long Beach, CA 90810.

This event is sponsored by HUSTLER Casino – LA’s only luxury Casino. Tequila Mandala – 100% Agave Azul, Shoe Palace – Community comes first, Northgate Market – Authenticity Delivered, Car Shield – USA’s #1 Auto Protection Company, and Mezcal La Reliquia.

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“ATV” Velazquez Gets the Nod in an Exciting Scrap in Springfield, Mass

Carlos Gonzalez Stops Former Olympian Duke Micah

Story by Kirk Lang

Photos by Alyssa Lang

Springfield, MA. Making its mark across New England one fight card at a time, Reyes Boxing Inc. brought boxing to the big room at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, Massachusetts on Sept. 14, and hometown hero Anthony “ATV” Velazquez did not disappoint.

Headlining his first main event, the 28-year-old Velazquez won a hard-fought 10-round decision over Frenchman Florent Dervis, who now trains out of Clearwater, Florida, to earn the vacant Junior NABF super welterweight championship. The judges had it as a unanimous decision for Velazquez by scores of 98-92 and 96-94 (twice).

Action was fairly even over the first four rounds, as Velazquez and Dervis showed respect for one another and did not make any careless moves. In the first minute of the fifth frame, however, Velazquez looked like he woke up and was throwing punches with more authority. Velazquez’ more spirited attack prompted Dervis, a southpaw, to turn up the heat. With little more than a minute remaining in the stanza, Dervis attacked with two impressive straight lefts followed by a right hook.

In many rounds, Dervis displayed solid lateral movement and would step in quickly to score with combinations. Conversely, Velazquez would have mini-rallies that riled up the hometown crowd, even if it was just a two-punch burst. Velazquez got busier around the seventh frame, with a more consistent body attack. The start of the eighth round saw him land a beautiful right to the head followed by a right to the body. Dervis would have his moments in the session, but Velazquez closed the round strong with an impressive combination.

The tenth and ninth rounds were closely contested and when the bell rang to end the 10-round contest, both men jumped on opposite corner posts to raise their fists, although Dervis got to his ring post first. Unfortunately for the Frenchman, he would not get the nod.

Michael Reyes, of Reyes Boxing, Inc., chief trainer to Dervis, said afterwards, “I think it was a great fight that easily could have gone either way.”

He added, “I think that Florent really stepped up and made an amazing go of it.”

Velazquez said, “He [Dervis] was tough. He took some hard shots, so respect to him.”

For Velazquez, a Puerto Rican-American, it was a beautiful weekend. He kicked things off in downtown Springfield Saturday evening, and one day later, the celebration continued with Springfield’s Puerto Rican Day Parade.

Velazquez improved to 15-0-1 (13 KO’s) while Davis fell to 10-2 (5 KO’s).

In the night’s special co-feature attraction, Springfield’s Carlos Gonzalez earned the vacant WBA NABA featherweight title with an 8^th round TKO of former Olympian Duke Micah of Ghana. The official time was 2:50.

Micah’s only defeat prior to facing Gonzalez was a stoppage loss to WBO bantamweight champion John Riel Casimero in September 2020.

Shortly after his big win, Gonzalez – being interviewed by ring announcer John Vena – said, “It seems easy but it’s not easy. I go to the gym every single day, twice a day.”

He added, “How I made it look easy, I ‘ve got to give that to my coach and my team. They pushed me.”

Micah, 32, fought well before Gonzalez, 27, eventually wore him down.

“I fought [in the past] at 140. He stood in there like a lion, a warrior, so hats off to him,” said Gonzalez.

Micah, of Accra, Ghana, seemed to take the first round with a busier jab and work rate overall. However, Gonzalez would rile up the crowd with some nice combinations around the latter half of the second frame. He dominated round three and although there was tit-for-tat offense from both fighters at the start of the fourth, Gonzalez landed a beautiful straight right to the head with a minute or so remaining.

Gonzalez continued to pull away and in the seventh round he dropped Micah with a right to the head. In the final minute of the eighth, Gonzalez landed multiple chopping rights to the head. Gonzalez followed up with a barrage of left hooks and right hands that made Micah stagger back a step or two. Referee Kevin Hope was then forced to end matters at the 2:51 mark.

Gonzalez’ coach, Hector Burmudez, told Vena a world title opportunity could be as close as a year or so away.

 “It depends on who it is,” he said.

Gonzalez raised his record to 13-0 (12 KO’s) while Micah fell to 24-2 (19 KO’s).

In super lightweight action, Kasir “Mazzi” Goldston, 21, of Albany, NY, notched a second-round stoppage of 39-year-old Argentinian Diego Gonzalo Luque. The official time was 2:19. Goldston rocked Luque with a big right hook in the final minute of the opening round and continued to dominate in the second frame. A succession of hooks, followed by a straight left and a right uppercut, forced referee Melissa Kelly to end matters.

Unbeaten junior middleweight Carlos Castillo, from nearby Holyoke, MA, extended his record to 8-0 (5 KO’s) with a first-round knockout of 39-year-old Daulis Prescott, of Barranquila, Columbia. A lead right hand sent Prescott, 34-23 (26 KO’s), to the canvas. He tried but failed to beat referee Kevin Hope’s 10 count.

Undefeated super middleweight Laurent Humes, of Springfield, MA, ran his record to 11-0-1 (11 KO’s) with a second-round stoppage of 41-year-old Patrick Pierre, of New Orleans, LA. Humes came out looking sharp at the opening bell and soon landed a beautiful left to the body. Meanwhile, Pierre looked a bit a bit too stiff and upright, especially for a 30-plus fight veteran. It was not long before Humes was slamming right hands to the side of his head with Pierre, 6-29-4, along the ropes. Near the end of the round, a two-fisted attack to the head and body, followed by a succession of rights dropped Pierre. He beat the count, was allowed to continue, but was saved by the bell one second later.

Humes would finish things off in the second frame. He started with a little showboating, holding his right arm out but then firing a left jab. However, he soon got back to business, hurting Pierre with a left hook. Pierre stumbled back a couple of steps to a neutral corner. Just as Humes was about to go in for the kill, referee Melissa Kelly stepped in to halt the action. The official time was 1:19.

Super lightweight Derrick Whitley, Jr, whose father and uncle boxed professionally as well, improved to 8-4-1 (2 KO’s) with six-round unanimous decision over Jose Angel Roman, of Clarksville, Indiana.

You would have thought with the cheers Whitley got every round that it was a world championship fight. It was not. But when you are a hometown fighter, from a fighting family, you’re going to have that kind of support. Whitley’s bout was also the competitive contest of the night up to this point, though Whitley was in control. Whitley began the first round showcasing the uppercut early. A southpaw, he started to throw the straight left a little more in the second frame. He teed off on Roman, 12-35-5 (5 KO’s), in a neutral corner a minute into the third frame and the crowd was loving it. This was the first “opponent” of the night that did not wilt under pressure.

Roman came out aggressive to begin the fourth round, but Whitley would continue to outwork him with his faster hands. Even if a Whitley win was obvious, Roman never gave up. In fact, his best rounds may have been the final two, especially the sixth round, which featured the most back-and-forth exchanges.

Whitley was pleased to showcase his skills in the Arena at the MassMutual Center.

 “When you get a chance like this, take full advantage,” he said. “I got to perform in front of the people I love.”

Junior middleweight southpaw Kenny “The Menace” Paklos, of Oceanside, CA, went to 4-0 (3 KO’s) with a first-round stoppage of Shonta Barnes, of Wilson, NC. Barnes went down almost immediately after the opening bell, from a Paklos left hand. He beat the count but was soon battered with a two-fisted attack along the ropes that sent him to the canvas for a 10-count. The official time of the stoppage was 1:40. Barnes’ record now stands at 0-9.

Junior middleweight Edwine Humaine, Jr., of Springfield, MA, via Port-au-Prince, Haiti, scored a first-round stoppage of Aelio Mesquita, of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Humaine was the aggressor from the start and near the end of the round dropped Mesquita in a neutral corner with a clubbing right to the head. Referee Kevin Hope waved the fight off before reaching a full count. The official time was 2:58.

In the evening’s opening bout, 36-year-old boxing coach Julio Rivera made his pro debut against southpaw Daquanti Johnson, 0-5-0, of Wilson, NC, registering a first-round stoppage. The light heavyweight connected with numerous right hands that sent Johnson to the canvas. Johnson would beat the count but when the action resumed, a single right hand from Rivera put him down for the second time. Referee Melissa Kelly had seen enough and stopped the bout at the 1:16 mark.

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Undefeated Middleweight Euri Cedeno Set for Major Step Up Against Aro Schwartz

Story by TJ Delafave

BETHLEHEM, PA (September 20, 2024) – Undefeated middleweight prospect Euri Cedeno (9-0-1, 8 KOs), from La Romana, Dominican Republic, is preparing for the biggest test of his career as he faces Aro Schwartz (23-8-1, 15 KOs) from Baden-Württemberg, Germany, tonight, Friday, September 20, 2024, at the Wind Creek Events Center in Bethlehem, PA. The bout will be streamed live on bxngtv.com.

Co-promoted by Boxlab Promotions and Marshall Kauffman’s Kings Promotions, Cedeno looks to continue his impressive rise in the middleweight division with a victory against the experienced Schwartz. Known for his power and technical skill set, Cedeno is eager to show fans why he is one of the division’s top prospects.

“I had a great training camp,” said Cedeno. “My team pushed me hard every day, and I’m in excellent shape. We focused on all aspects of my game, and I feel stronger and sharper than ever. Aro Schwartz is a dangerous opponent. He’s experienced, and I know he’s coming to fight, but I’m ready. I’ve prepared for everything he can throw at me, and I’m confident I’ll get the victory.”

With a win, Cedeno hopes to further establish himself as a rising star in the middleweight division. “A victory tonight will show that I belong with the top fighters in the division. I’m looking to make a statement and keep pushing toward bigger fights. I’m very thankful for my core team, my promoters, and all my fans. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. They’ve been with me every step of the way, and I fight for them as much as I fight for myself.”

Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, is excited about Cedeno’s potential, stating, “We’re thrilled to co-promote Euri Cedeno with Marshall Kauffman’s Kings Promotions. Euri’s ring IQ and punching power set him apart from the rest, and we believe he has a bright future in this sport. Tonight’s fight is just another step toward where we know he can go.”

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OVERSEAS BOXING MATCHES

By Per-Ake Persson

TK Promotion fight card excites fans at Midtdjurs Hall in Ryomgaard, Denmark

Ryomgaard, Denmark. TK Promotion returned to this small (2500 inhabitants) town northeast of Aarhus for a show at an almost packed Midtdjurs Hall. Local hero, featherweight Mikkel Gribsholt, 5-1, headlined but it all went wrong right from the start as unheralded Venezuelan Luis Guerrero, 9-9-2, was much too strong for him. It was man vs boy as Guerrero hurt the Dane with left hooks to the body. Gribsholt was at times close to being stopped and should perhaps have been retired by his corner. Mikkel, however, wound up lasting the distance but lost on scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55. It was a bad beating, the kind a young fighter sometimes does not come back from.

Super middle Jakob Bank (14-0) outscored tough Georgian Iago Kiziria (7-15) over eight but had to work hard to do so. Bank is a flashy fighter, with lots of slick moves, and often fights with his hands down. Kiziria is the opposite, defense minded, well protected and looks to counter his opponent. All in all, it made for an interesting fight dominated by Bank, who won with scores of 80-72 from the two judges and the scoring referee. It will be interesting to see how Jakob holds up when he steps up in class.

Heavyweight prospect Morten Givskov, 3-0, had no problems against Paata Aduashvili, 10-35-3, from the Georgian Republic and knocked him out 1:44 of the second round. Aduashvili has over the years fought just everybody on two legs in Europe from light heavy to heavyweight and while he looked out of shape, he came out fighting showing good hand speed – but a left hook to the body early in the second took the air out of him and a second knockdown followed – and it was all over.

Venezuelan Luis Araguayan, 16-16, showed no punch resistance as he was knocked down twice in the second and once in the first against Victor Hoveling, 5-0. The 42-year veteran did not move a fraction when hit just went down and it was finally stopped.

Cruiserweight Steffen Rorstrom, a southpaw, now 3-0, outboxed Pedro Perales, 5-3-2, from Venezuela, for five rounds. At the start of the sixth and final round Perales retired with no reason given, although he was second best throughout.

Five amateur fights started the show.

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Undefeated Super Lightweight Prospect Hendri “La Bazuca” Cedeno Seeks Regional Title by end of 2024

Story by Jacob Sites

ORLANDO, FL – Undefeated super lightweight prospect Hendri “La Bazuca” Cedeno (14-0, 11 KOs) continues to rise through the ranks after a punishing 5th round TKO victory over Enriko Gogokhia (13-2-2, 8 KOs) on September 6, 2024. The bout, part of MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects 8 card, took place at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, FL, and was broadcast globally on DAZN.

Cedeno, who is co-promoted by Boxlab Promotions and Marshall Kauffman’s Kings Promotions, showcased his power and ring IQ, breaking down Gogokhia over five rounds before securing the stoppage in emphatic fashion. The Dominican native’s relentless pressure and sharp combinations were on full display.

“I felt in control of the fight from the start because I was in incredible shape,” said Cedeno. “My training camp was grueling, but it prepared me for everything Gogokhia brought to the ring. I knew that as long as I kept up the pace, he would eventually break down.”

Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, is excited about Cedeno’s continued development. “Hendri is really showing the world that he’s a problem in the super lightweight division. His progress has been incredible, and with every fight, he’s getting better. We’re excited with how he’s growing as a fighter.”

“Cedeno is ready for the next level,” stated Co-promoter Marshall Kauffman. “His performance against Gogokhia proved that he can compete with tougher opposition, and we believe he’ll shine even brighter as we push him toward bigger opportunities in the super lightweight division.”

With this victory, Cedeno feels ready for the next step in his career. “I’m more than ready to step up in competition,” Cedeno confidently stated. “I’ve been working hard to make sure I’m prepared for the best fighters in my division, and I’m looking to fight for a regional title before the year is out. I’m always ready. I’m back training and just waiting for the call. Whoever they put in front of me next, I’ll be prepared.”

Cedeno’s victory puts him on the path toward a regional title shot as he aims to close out 2024 with a statement. Stay tuned for more updates on his next bout.

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Toro’s Heavyweight Showdown

Tsotne Rogava vs. Alexander Flores 

“Heartbeat of LA Boxing” series to launch Sept. 23rd at  

Pacific Palms Resort in City of Industry, CA

Story By Alexander Rinaldi

LOS ANGELES  – Toro Promotions, Inc. has been building an impressive stable of heavyweights and two, undefeated Tsotne Rogava (9-0, 7 KOs) and Alexander “The Great” Flores (19-4-1, 17 KOs), will square off in the 10-round co-main event on September 28^th to launch Toro’s inaugural “Heartbeat of LA Boxing” series event at Pacific Palms Resort in City of Industry, California.

In general, boxing fans enjoy watching the “big boys” battle and Rogava (6’ 5”, 270 lbs.) and Flores (6’ 4”, 260-lbs.) will be fighting for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) U.S. Heavyweight Championship.

Trained by Hall of Famer Joe Goossen, Rogava was a 2020 Ukraine Olympian who was born in Georgia and raised in Ukraine. The former world-class kickboxing and Muay Thai fighter now lives in Marina del Rey (CA).

Flores is one of the toughest opponents I’ve faced,” Rogava said. “He’s experienced and knows how to fight, so this is definitely not going to be an easy fight. But I don’t want easy fights. It’s important for me to grow and prove that I’m ready for serious challenges.

“Facing Flores is a great opportunity to show what I’m capable of. It’s going to be a tough, intense fight. I’m ready for any outcome, but I’m confident in myself, and hope to finish with a win, maybe, even early.”

Three of the more experienced Flores’ four career losses have been to world champions Charles Martin, Joseph Parker and Luis Ortiz. 

“Tsotne has a lot of experience, maybe not as much as the three world champions I’ve faced, but he’s a hungry prospect trying to get to the top,” the Rowland Heights (CA) Flores commented. “Beating Tsonte gets me a step closer to a title shot, so it’s a must win for me. I think it’ll be boxing from the outside and inside fighting, but it will definitely end with my hands rained in the air in victory.”

Rogova and Flores are Toro stablemates as are other top heavyweights such as Kinsley “The Black Lion” Ibeh (12-2-1, 10 KOs) and undefeated Jay “The Outlaw” May (10-0, 9 KOs), who are slated to throwdown October 19^th in the 10-round main event at Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington. Another Toro heavyweight, Dante Stone (17-1, 11 KOs) extended his win streak to 17 with an eight-round unanimous decision over Terrell Jamal Woods last week in Phoenix.

In the other co-main event, Walnut High senior Paolo “Pow” Barredo will make his long-awaited pro debut in a four-round featherweight bout against Mychaquell Shields (2-5, 0 KOs), of Alpine (CA).

Barredo was a celebrated U.S. amateur boxer who won 90 of 106 matches, highlighted by his 2021 Junior Olympics title-winning performance. He turns 18 two days prior to making his pro debut.

In a pair of six-round matches, Santa Ana (CA) junior lightweight Michael “El Chamuco” Bracamontes (9-2-1, 5 KOs) faces Arsen Poghosyan (3-2-1, 2 KOs), who fights out of Los Angeles, and undefeated Mission Hills (CA) junior welterweight Ricardo Sonny Robledo (9-0, 3 KOs) meets Matt Gaver (3-9-2, 1 KO), of Bakersfield (CA).

Six additional local fighters will make their pro debuts in four rounders: La Puente (CA) lightweight Alejandro Alvarado, a 2021 California State Silver Mittens Champion, vs. San Diego’s Eduardo Mondragon, Fontana welterweight Jesse Zuniga vs. Riverside’s Oscar Trujillo, and Riverside (CA) bantamweight Hector Oros vs. Alexander Robles, of Modesto (CA).

Card Subject to change.

Tickets prices range between $500.00 and $100.00 and are available to purchase by going on Instagram @ToroPromotionsInc and follow the link in its bio, or go directly to www.EventBrite.com.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. PT, first bout at 6:30 p.m. PT.

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Kevin Brown to Climb Rankings as he Edges Closer to World Title Opportunity

Story by Salvador Ramirez

ORLANDO, FL (September 2024) – Boxlab Promotions’ undefeated super lightweight contender Kevin “Alpha” Brown (6-0, 3 KOs) continues his ascent in the boxing world, as he will climb the WBA rankings after his unanimous decision victory against John Bauza (18-2, 8 KOs) this past Friday, September 6, 2024, on MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects 8 card at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, FL. The victory, which aired globally on DAZN, solidifies Brown’s position as the current WBA Super Lightweight Continental Americas champion and puts him on the path toward a world title shot. He is currently ranked WBA # 14.

“Kevin Brown’s victory over Bauza is a significant achievement in his career,” said Brown’s promoter, Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions. “Kevin demonstrated exceptional maturity in this fight. He stuck to the game plan, stayed composed under pressure, and showed the kind of discipline that separates champions from contenders. This hard-fought win will certainly elevate his ranking and bring him one step closer to a world title shot.”

Reflecting on his victory and his journey so far, Brown expressed his gratitude to his team and promoter. “I’m incredibly happy with the opportunities Boxlab Promotions has given me. This win over Bauza is just another step toward achieving my dream of becoming a world champion. I’m focused, motivated, and ready to keep climbing the rankings until I reach the top,” said Brown.

As Brown’s fan base continues to grow, particularly in Orlando, Piedra noted the excitement surrounding his rising star. “Kevin is becoming a fan favorite here in Orlando. The crowd was fully behind him, and he delivered a performance that left no doubt about his potential to become a world champion. He’s inching closer to that dream with every fight.”

As Kevin Brown continues to impress inside the ring, the future looks bright for the young rising star from Cuba. With his recent victory, the super lightweight division will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on his next moves.

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CANELO VS. BERLANGA FIGHT WEEK EVENTS

TO STREAM LIVE ON THE PBC YOUTUBE PAGE

 

GRAND ARRIVALS

TODAY! Tuesday, September 10 at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT

CANELO VS. BERLANGA FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE:

 Wednesday, September 11 at 4:00 p.m. ET/1:00 p.m. PT

MEDIA WORKOUT

Wednesday, September 11 at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT

UNDERCARD FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE

Thursday, September 12 at 2:00 p.m. ET/11:00 a.m. PT

WEIGH-IN:

Friday, September 13 at 4:00 p.m. ET/1:00 p.m. PT

Canelo Promotions Presents Pound-For-Pound Great & Mexican Superstar Canelo Álvarez Battling Undefeated Puerto Rican Knockout Artist Edgar Berlanga Saturday, September 14 Topping PBC Pay-Per-View Event Available on Prime Video from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas

Blockbuster Pay-Per-View Card Also Available Live on DAZN.com

Story by Salvador Ramirez

Premier Boxing Champions will deliver streaming coverage of Canelo vs. Berlanga fight week events on the PBC YouTube page as Canelo Promotions will present a Mexico vs. Puerto Rico showdown featuring pound-for-pound great and Mexican superstar Canelo Álvarez putting his unified WBC, WBA and WBO Super Middleweight World Titles on the line against undefeated WBA No. 1-Ranked Mandatory Contender Edgar Berlanga in the main event of a Mexican Independence Day weekend extravaganza headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video taking place this Saturday, Sept. 14 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to purchase the PPV via DAZN.com. Additionally, fans can purchase the PPV at PPV.com. On top of those options, fans will continue to be able to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets.

Here is the full schedule of live streams with links to the PBC event pages:

GRAND ARRIVALS – TODAY! Tuesday, September 10 at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT

PBC event link: https://youtube.com/live/e9lJM4L3SPw?feature=share

CANELO VS. BERLANGA FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE – Wednesday, September 11 at 4:00 p.m. ET/1:00 p.m. PT

PBC event link: https://youtube.com/live/w9Xl7HVZGEQ?feature=share

MEDIA WORKOUT – Wednesday, September 11 at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT

PBC event link: https://youtube.com/live/shjUZbsGG9Y?feature=share

UNDERCARD FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE – Thursday, September 12 at 2:00 p.m. ET/11:00 a.m. PT

PBC event link: https://youtube.com/live/HZY-sjxJ_4k?feature=share

WEIGH-IN – Friday, September 13, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. ET/1:00 p.m. PT

PBC event link: https://youtube.com/live/F3mhW9hRrss?feature=share

POST-FIGHT PRESS CONFERENCE – Saturday, September 14

following pay-per-view

PBC event link: https://youtube.com/live/QXfWZBop2ZU?feature=share

#        #        #

ABOUT CANELO VS. BERLANGA

Canelo vs. Berlanga will deliver the latest installment of the historic Mexico vs. Puerto Rico rivalry as Canelo Promotions presents pound-for-pound great and Mexican superstar Canelo Álvarez putting his unified WBC, WBA and WBO Super Middleweight World Titles on the line against undefeated WBA No. 1-Ranked Mandatory Contender Edgar Berlanga headlining a Mexican Independence Day weekend extravaganza topping a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video taking place Saturday, Sept. 14 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The star-studded co-main event will feature Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara taking on hard-hitting two-division world champion and Puerto Rican star Danny “Swift” García in a 12-round showdown between two of this era’s most accomplished fighters.

Plus, former super middleweight world champion Caleb Plant will take on undefeated contender Trevor McCumby for the Interim WBA Super Middleweight Title, while the former 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero steps into the ring against the hard-hitting Manuel Jaimes in a 10-round bout opening the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to purchase the PPV via DAZN.com. Additionally, fans can purchase the PPV at PPV.com. On top of those options, fans will continue to be able to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets.

Preceding the pay-per-view, former unified world champion Stephen Fulton Jr. will take on all-action contender Carlos Castro in a featherweight clash that will headline a three-fight PBC on Prime Video lineup. The live-streaming action will begin at 6:00 p.m. ET/3:00 p.m. PT and be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card it leads into.

The streaming presentation will also feature hard-hitting welterweight Roiman Villa dueling Mexico’s Ricardo Salas in a 10-round battle, plus unbeaten prospect Jonathan Lopez squares off against Richard Medina in an eight-round super featherweight clash that kicks off the action.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now through AXS.com. The event is   promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, in association with Matchroom Boxing.

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Thrilling Fisticuffs Action from Sweden and Finland

Story by Per-Ake Persson

Katrineholm, Sweden. Local here, Samo Jangirov (9-5-3) won the vacant Baltic Boxing Union cruiserweight title as he stopped Finn Marko Mononen (8-7) in the fourth round of a scheduled eight rounder.

Jangirov was fast out of the gate and put pressure on Mononen, who held up well to begin with but was worn down. In the fourth Samo opened up for real with Marko in a neutral corner and as the Finn went down for a count the towel came in from his corner. An early stoppage perhaps but the writing was on the wall.

Finnish super middleweight prospect Ivan Perala (8-0) won a hard-fought split decision over Latvian, based in Norway, Andrejs Baranovs (2-2). After six the judges all had it 58-56 but 2-1 in favor of Perala.

Former WBC female super welter champ Patricia Berghult (17-1) returned after 18 months out at super lightweight and outscored Lithuanian journeywoman Vaida Masiokaite (10-25-5) in a six rounder. 

Finnish super middle Ivan Perala (8-0) won over Latvian, based in Norway, Andrejs Baranovs (2-2) in a hard fought six rounder. The judges all had it 58-56 but 2-1 in favor of Perala.

…………………………………

September 2 – Helsinki, Finland. The Icelandic Polar Bear, heavyweight Gunnar Kolbeinn Kristinsson (15-0) retained the Baltic Boxing Union title as he stopped Finnish challenger Mika Mielonen (7-2). Mielonen did not come out for the sixth due to a hand injury, but Kristinsson was well on top in the fifth. Surprisingly the judges were split after five at 50-45 Kristinsson, 48-48 and 50-45 Mielonen.

In the chief support cruiserweight Sauli Karkkainen (20-2) got a good workout from Serbian journeyman Stefan Mihailov (8-23-3) in a six-rounder. It was scored 60-54 on all cards.

 

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“Down and Dirty XI” Coming to Springfield

Story By Kirk Lang

Reyes Boxing Inc., the steadily rising six-year-old promotional company, is bringing boxing to the big room at the Mass Mutual Center in Springfield, MA on Sept. 14 with “Down and Dirty XI.”

“We’ve already done Maine, New Hampshire and the Boston area and so we are now heading on to Springfield,” said Reyes Boxing President Michael Reyes. We have plans to get to Connecticut and Rhode Island. It’s a New England series so we plan to hit every New England state.

Springfield is literally just over the border from Connecticut so it’s only a matter of time before Reyes Boxing is doing shows at Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun – two of the biggest casinos in the country.

Reyes, a former officer with the United States Marine Corps., is pleased with how far his company has come in a short amount of time.

“We’ve learned. We’ve built. We’ve had some really quality fights with some really quality guys,” said Reyes. “A lot of my guys have fought on Showtime, ESPN and DAZN.”

He added, “So, as far as a six-year-old company, we’ve done a lot and we’ve been to a lot of places, especially in the last three years. We’re happy with our growth. We’re happy to see where we’re going.”

“Down and Dirty XI” marks the first time boxing is taking place in the Arena at the Mass Mutual Center, which is located across the street from MGM Springfield and just a few blocks away from I-91.

Headlining the 12-bout card will be Springfield’s own Anthony Velazquez in a junior middleweight title fight against France’s Florent Dervris. Beloved by the Puerto Rican community in his hometown, Velazquez looks to gain wider support with and each and every victory. His record currently stands at 14-0-1. Velazquez is on a two-fight win streak since an April 2023 draw with Rashid Stevens at Mohegan Sun, on a card that was promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s CES Boxing. His two victories since that draw have been by knockout, eliminating the suspense of scorecards.

The press conference for the Sept. 14 show will take place at MGM Springfield on September 3. The casino will also be hosting the after-party.

“This is the first time boxing’s taking place in the Mass Mutual stadium, which they call the Arena,” said Reyes. “I think this is going to be the best show Massachusetts has all year long. I think the talent pool is deep with guys we have fighting and I’m excited. I’m excited to be in the Arena. I’m excited to bring big-time boxing out to western Massachusetts and push further down.”

If Reyes pushes down beyond Connecticut, New York City promoters may have some competition.

Although Reyes is a former amateur fighter, and loved boxing since his early years, “I didn’t know that there was a calling when I was kid to be a boxing promoter.”

He added, “But now that I’m here, I love it. I’m addicted and I’m all in/”

To purchase tickets for the card, log onto www.massmutualcenter.com

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AUSTRALIAN SUPERSTAR TIM TSZYU BATTLES IBF 154-POUND WORLD CHAMPION BAKHRAM MURTAZALIEV HEADLINING PBC ON PRIME VIDEO ACTION SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19 FROM THE CARIBE ROYALE RESORT IN ORLANDO, FL.

Former World Champion Tszyu Challenges Unbeaten World Champion Murtazaliev Topping Streaming Action Beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

Story By Alexander Rinaldi

ORLANDO, FL. – September 5, 2024 – Australian superstar and former world champion Tim Tszyu will challenge unbeaten IBF Super Welterweight World Champion Bakhram Murtazaliev in the 12-round main event of PBC on Prime Video action Saturday, October 19 live from the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida.

The event will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, with the action streaming exclusively on Prime Video for all Prime members in the United States and select countries. Join today or start a free 30-day trial to catch the championship card. One of boxing’s most exciting rising stars, Tszyu will look to regain his status as world champion against the reigning unbeaten titleholder Murtazaliev in these high stakes main event. Additional undercard bouts available on Prime Video will be announced shortly.

Tickets for the live event go on sale tomorrow, Wednesday, September 4 at 12 p.m. ET will be available through Ticketmaster.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing and Main Events.

“Tim Tszyu is one of the most fan-friendly fighters in the sport and he proved it again in his last outing by battling through a gruesome cut to give fans 12 rounds of action,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Most fighters would have bowed out, but Tszyu kept pushing forward and will bring that same mentality into this matchup against the reigning IBF 154-Pound World Champion Bakhram Murtazaliev. The super welterweight division is absolutely loaded with talent and the winner of this fight will be in excellent position to face the other big names at 154-pounds. It’s the perfect fight to headline action on Prime Video on Saturday, October 19 at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando.”

“Even before his spectacular win against Jack Culcay to earn the IBF title in Germany, Bakhram made it clear that he wanted Tim Tszyu next,” said Kathy Duva, CEO of Main Events. “He also said he wanted the matchup to happen in the U.S. so that everyone could see him fight, so I’m really happy that this deal came together to take place in front of a wide audience on Prime Video. Both of these fighters tend to come forward and engage and I would not be surprised if this turns out to be the Fight of the Year.”

“There are very few fighters in the world that can endure what Tim went through in his last fight and come out bigger, better and stronger than before,” said George Rose, CEO of No Limit Boxing. “Tim Tszyu is that guy. He lives to fight and has a warrior spirit that is completely unbreakable. You won’t want to miss this. He is about to remind everyone why he is the best 154 pounder in the world on October 19.”

Tszyu (24-1, 17 KOs) lost his WBO 154-Pound World Title in his last outing, as he took an incidental elbow from Sebastian Fundora in round three that opened up one of the most grisly cuts in recent boxing memory, and which severely hampered Tszyu on his way to losing a narrow split-decision on March 30.

The 29-year-old son of International Boxing Hall of Famer Kostya Tszyu, he came into that fight off a red-hot 2023 campaign that saw him elevated to world champion at 154-pounds while defeating former world champion Tony Harrison, top contender Brian Mendoza and former title challenger Carlos Ocampo. A native of Sydney, Australia, Tszyu made his U.S debut against U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in March 2022, earning a unanimous decision. Tszyu grew up playing soccer, but soon gravitated toward boxing. The decision led to him following in the legendary footsteps of his father, Kostya, who was an undisputed 140-pound champion.

“At this level, you have to take everyone out and Bakhram is the next guy standing in my way,” said Tszyu. “The world knows me and they know what I’m about. I’m thankful to my team for putting me in this position to prove why I’m still the man at 154 pounds. Bakhram has what I want and I plan on taking it from him in spectacular fashion. It’s time to become a two-time world champion.”

Now residing in Oxnard, California, the Russian Murtazaliev (22-0, 16 KOs) joined the ranks of world champion in his last outing as he looks to make his first title defense on October 19. Murtazaliev defeated Jack Culcay on his home turf of Germany in April of this year to win the IBF title with a dramatic 11^th-round stoppage.

The 31-year-old has fought professionally since 2014 and debuted stateside in November 2016 with a knockout over the previously unbeaten Botirsher Obidov. Murtazaliev continued his climb with an impressive three-win 2019 campaign that culminated in a unanimous decision over Jorge Fortea in November that earned him the mandatory slot with the IBF. He’d go on to add four more victories between September 2020 and December 2022 before stepping into the title showdown against Culcay.

“I’m extremely happy and excited to defend my world title on Prime Video against a strong opponent like Tim Tszyu,” said Murtazaliev. “I just want Tim to be in the best shape possible and not get any injuries so we can give this fight to the fans.”

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Nelson Oliva Headlines CBN Promotions Card on September 21 in Long Beach

The 8-round Co-Main Event will Showcase Unbeaten Super Welterweight Contender Alejandro Luis Silva

Story By Tyrone Cartwright

LONG BEACH, CA – CBN Promotions is proud to announce its next highly anticipated boxing event, taking place on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at Thunder Studios in Long Beach, CA. The action-packed night will be headlined by an 8-round main event featuring undefeated middleweight Nelson Oliva (11-0, 8 KOs) from Los Angeles, CA. Oliva, known for his explosive power in both hands, will be looking to continue his unbeaten streak against Paulo Cesar Galdino (13-8-2, 9 KOs), Sao Paulo, Brazil.

The 8-round co-main event will showcase the unbeaten super welterweight contender Alejandro Luis Silva (22-0-1, 17 KOs) from Paramount, CA, who is also awaiting confirmation of his opponent. Silva, a rising star in the division, is eager to put on a dominant performance in front of a lively SoCal crowd.

The entire event will be broadcast live to 160 million homes across multiple networks, including Fubo Sports, Fox Deportes, Stadium, Gray TV, and will be tape delayed on Estrella TV, ensuring that fight fans everywhere can witness the excitement.

“We’re thrilled to bring another exciting night of boxing to Thunder Studios,” said Alex Camponovo, President of CBN Promotions. “This event features some of the best rising stars in the sport, and we’re committed to delivering top-notch matchups that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. Nelson Oliva and Alejandro Luis Silva are both undefeated and hungry to make a statement, and we can’t wait to see them in action.”

Doors open at 5:30 pm PT with the first fight starting at 6:30 pm PT. Tickets priced $60 and $90 (Plus applicable fees), are available for purchase now by calling by calling 800-283-8699, by text at 702-591-1638, or online at www.cbnpromotions.com. Thunder Studios is located at 20434 S Santa Fe Ave, Long Beach, CA 90810

UNDERCARD BOUTS:

Super bantamweight, Hector Lopez (5-0, 4 KOs) from Compton, CA, will face an opponent TBA. (6-rounds).

Super featherweight, Eric Mondragon (10-1-1, 4 KOs) of Maywood, CA, will face an opponent TBA. (6-rounds).

Flyweight Terry Washington (ProDebut), from San Bernardino, CA, will face an opponent TBA. (4-rounds).

Opening up the show will be super bantamweight Gurjant Singh (2-0, 1 KO), from Artesia, CA, facing an opponent TBA. (4-rounds).

This event is sponsored by HUSTLER Casino – LA’s only luxury Casino. Tequila Mandala – 100% Agave Azul, Shoe Palace – Community comes first, Northgate Market – Authenticity Delivered, Car Shield – USA’s #1 Auto Protection Company, and Mezcal La Reliquia.

 

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Yoelvis Gomez Returns Against Diego Ferreira on MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects 8 Card

Story By Leonard Carmichael

ORLANDO, FL (September 5, 2024) – Boxlab Promotions and Warriors Boxing are excited to announce that their middleweight prospect Yoelvis Gomez (7-1, 6 KOs) from Havana, Cuba, will face off against Diego Ferreira (11-2, 7 KOs) from Curitiba, Brazil, in a highly anticipated 8-round bout on MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects 8 card. The event is set for this Friday, September 6, at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, FL, and will be broadcast live globally on DAZN. Tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.com.

Gomez, known for his incredible punching power and crowd-pleasing style, is wrapping up an intense training camp in Las Vegas under the guidance of respected boxing coach Ismael Salas. The Cuban standout is eager to showcase his skills on the global stage.

“My training camp with Coach Salas in Las Vegas has been incredible,” said Gomez. “We’ve focused on sharpening my technique, improving my conditioning, and perfecting my game plan for this fight. I’m feeling stronger and more prepared than ever to put on a great performance. Diego Ferreira is a tough opponent, but I’m confident in my abilities. I know he’s coming to fight, but I’m ready to dominate. This is my chance to show everyone why I’m worthy to be in the talks as one of the top fighters in the middlweight division, and I’m not going to let it slip away.”

“Yoelvis Gomez is one of the most electrifying fighters on this card,” said Amaury Piedra, Managing Director of Caribe Royale and President of Boxlab Promotions. “His power, speed, and determination make him a must-watch talent. I have no doubt that he will come out victorious and continue his rise in the middleweight division. A win on this stage, especially against a quality opponent like Ferreira, will elevate his career to the next level. It’s an opportunity for him to make a statement and position himself for even bigger fights. He’s ready to seize that opportunity.”

“Fighting on DAZN is a huge platform, and I’m excited to show my skills to boxing fans around the world,” concluded Gomez. “This is the type of exposure every fighter dreams of, and I plan to make the most of it.”

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Championship boxing will come to the Wind Creek Event Center on Friday night, September 20th as veterans Matt Conway and James Bernadin duel in an eight-round bout for the Pennsylvania Lightweight Title

Story By T. Delafave

Championship boxing will come to the Wind Creek Event Center on Friday night, September 20th as veterans Matt Conway and James Bernadin duel in an eight-round bout for the Pennsylvania Lightweight Title.

That bout will top a card promoted by King’s Promotions.

Conway, 29 of Pittsburgh has a record of 22-4 with nine knockouts. The nine-year vet has defeated Zach Kuhn (9-2-1), Victor Abreu (9-2) and Adriano Porfirio Ramirez (10-1). Conway is looking to get back in the win column after losing a decision to Hendri Cedeno on May 31st in Orlando, Florida.

Bernadin of Lancaster, PA is 12-2-1 with six knockouts. The 31-year-old Bernadin is a six-year professional who has garnered wins over Osvaldo Morales (4-0), Edgar Torres (8-2-1), Kenny Robles (9-1) and his most recent outing when he took a split decision over Johnny Spell (8-1) on April 5th at The Wind Creek Event Center.

In an eight-round co-feature, undefeated middleweight Euri Cedeno (9-0-1, 8 KOs) of Reading, PA takes on Aro Schwartz (23-8-1, 15 KOs) of Karlsruhe, Denmark.

Also, in eight-round bouts, Julian Gonzalez (14-0-1, 11 KOs) of Reading, PA battles Oscar Barajas (7-9-1,2 KOs) of Toms River, NJ in a super featherweight bout.

Joseph Adorno (19-4-2, 16 KOs) of Allentown, PA fights Luis May (22-18-1) of Cancun, Mexico in a junior welterweight bout.

Brittany Sims (6-3, 3 KOs) of Bethlehem, PA will take on Nancy Franco (19-20-2, 5 KOs) of Jalisco, Mexico in a bantamweight bout.

In Six-round bouts:

Francis Oran (5-1, 2 KOs) of Bethlehem, PA fights Ali Ellis (5-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia in a cruiserweight fight.

In four-round bouts, Devon Young (4-0, 3 KOs) of Atlanta squares off with Joseph Bonos (0-6) of Orlando in a heavyweight bout.

In a battle of the “Bethlehem Heavyweight Championship”, Adam Atiyeh (1-0) takes on Mike Liberto

Tickets are now on sale for $150, $100, $75 and $50 at the following link:

https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/020060FDD99A8D2F?brand=wcec

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JOHN “THE CANDYMAN” EASTER

Mayweather Promotions’ John Easter Extends Knockout Streak to 7-0 with Dominant Win in Mexico

Story By Salvador Ramirez

LAS VEGAS, NV – Mayweather Promotions’ undefeated middleweight powerhouse John “The Candyman” Easter (7-0, 7 KOs) continued his knockout streak this past Saturday with an explosive victory over Jesus Villa Miranda (7-113, 1 KO) of Mexico City, MX. The fight, which was part of the Floyd “Money” Mayweather Jr. vs. John Gotti III event aired live on DAZN. Easter’s win marks his seventh consecutive knockout, solidifying his reputation as one of the division’s most dangerous rising stars.

In a scheduled 6-round bout, Easter showcased his devastating power, stopping Flores as he displayed precision accuracy with his jab and power punches. After six dominant rounds, Easter ended the fight when the referee seen to much damage to Flores’ face. With this victory, Easter has now fought in Mexico five times, building a strong fan base south of the border.

“Winning this fight in Mexico means a lot to me,” said John Easter. “I’ve fought here five times now, and I feel the love and support from the fans. I’m grateful to Mayweather Promotions for the opportunity to perform here again, and I’m glad I could give them another knockout to remember.”

Easter’s trainer, the renowned Bob Santos, was equally impressed with his fighter’s performance. “John looked great in this fight,” said Santos. “He showcased his power and controlled the action from the start. His knockout streak is no fluke—he’s got the skills and the strength to back it up. He’s a tremendous fighter and he has the one attribute that all trainers love, punching power! We will continue to work on all aspects of his game. I’m excited about his future.”

As Easter continues his rapid ascent in the middleweight division, he has his sights set on an active remainder of 2024. “I want to stay busy for the rest of the year,” Easter concluded. “I’m hoping to fight two more times before the year ends. The more I fight, the better I get, and I’m ready to keep proving myself.”

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Tyson Fury sends message to Iron Mike Tyson prior to Mike’s fight against Jake Paul

Story By Alexander Rinaldi and Joseph Rinaldi

With the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight back on the grill for November, many pundits believe that Mike Tyson has more than a good chance to beat Jake Paul.

Besides the fact that Paul grew up as a wrestler and has only fought a nominal number of boxing matches – with none of his opponents being not too far removed from being absolute amateurs, he has never been in the ring with a natural heavyweight who carries one of the hardest punches in boxing history.

The old adage that the last thing a fighter loses his punch is enough for Tyson to put away his loudmouth YouTuber.

Remember what happened when George Foreman knocked out the great lefty undefeated at the time heavyweight champion Michael Moorer in the tenth round after losing most, if not all, of the preceding nine rounds. In round ten, Foreman clocked Moorer with a right to the jaw that immediately sent Moorer into the realm of dreamland and straight onto the canvas where he never rose to beat the count.

The same will be the case with Tyson.

As a result, many feel the Mike Tyson will come out on top, including Tyson Fury.

Tyson Fury has appeared to lend his backing to Jake Paul’s fight with Mike Tyson by declaring his eagerness to see the heavyweight back in action.

Tyson will climb through the ropes for the first time since a bore draw in his exhibition bout with Roy Jones Jr four years ago. Prior to that, his last outing saw him retire after five rounds of his final professional bout against Kevin McBride almost 20 years ago. Tyson’s bout with Paul, who is 30 year’s his rival’s junior, has been widely criticized, but Fury appears in favor of the meeting.

Taking to social media, he posted clips of Tyson, adding: “Can’t wait to see the living legend with boxing gloves on again.” Fury, who was named after the former undisputed heavyweight world champion, is currently preparing for his rematch with Oleksandr Usyk in December.

Canelo Alvarez and Edgar Berlanga gear up for big fight at the T-Mobile Arena

Story By Alexander Rinaldi

As has been his custom, Canelo Alvarez continues the tradition of fighting on Mexican Independence Day weekend. Since he has been one of the top draws in the boxing gamer, Alvarez has been the big attraction during the holiday.

This time, the reigning undisputed super middleweight champion Canelo Avarez – the King of the Ring – is set defend his laurels against top contender Edgar Berlanga in Las Vegas at the T-Mobile Arena. 

Like the terrific rivalries before featuring Mexican vs Puerto Rican fighters – fireworks are expected to blast in the ring.

Canelo (61-2-2) is on a four-fight win streak since 2022, beating Jaime Munguia in May. It took him eleven months to become the undisputed super middleweight champion. Unfortunately, in a true IBF tradition of stripping titles, the future Hall of Famer will not defend the IBF title, as he will get stripped of it by fight night. Regardless, Alvarez is more than ready to compete against a rising star in Berlanga.

“I am very happy for this fight between Mexico and Puerto Rico,” said Canelo. “It’s exciting to be part of another great Mexico vs. Puerto Rico battle inside the ring because historically, we have always offered unforgettable fights full of passion. I am proud to contribute to this legacy and facing an opponent like Edgar Berlanga adds even more excitement and meaning to this event.”

“This is the opportunity of a lifetime. I deserve to be here, and I’m going to shock the world and silence the critics by delivering a masterful performance and knocking out Canelo Alvarez on Sept. 14,” Berlanga said. “I will prove that my Puerto Rican heritage surpasses Mexican boxing, from Gomez to Trinidad to Cotto, and now to Berlanga. I will reclaim what is rightfully ours. I’m ready to make this a historic firefight, continuing the greatest rivalry in boxing: Puerto Rico vs. Mexico.”

Besides the fans in the arena and the millions across the globe, rising boxing star Diego Pacheco will be a keen observer when Canelo Alvarez and Edgar Berlanga collide next month.  

The super-middleweight pair meet on September 14, live on DAZN, and world title glory will be on the line for both men. 

Pacheco, identified as one of the best prospects in world boxing, returns to action this weekend when he faces Maciej Sulecki, once again live on DAZN.  

Victory for Pacheco will move him closer to a big shot and he’s had his say on how next month’s fight will play out. 

“I think Canelo will stop him,” said Pacheco when speaking on Matchroom’s Flash Knockdown podcast. 

“I think Berlanga will maybe do better the first three rounds. I feel like once Canelo has found his rhythm and has found Berlanga’s timing, he’ll get him out of there.” 

As for the purses of the fighters : Per Essentially Sports, Canelo made $12 million against Floyd Mayweather in 2013. Facing Amir Khan in 2016, Canelo made about $25 million, per Sports Zion. Against Caleb Plant, when he became the undisputed super middleweight champion, Canelo collected $40 million. Facing Dmitry Bivol for light heavyweight gold, Canelo had a guaranteed purse of $15 million. 

Canelo earned $40 million in the first fight against Gennadiy Golovkin and $30 million in the rematch, per Celebrity Net Worth. He earned about $45 million in the trilogy fight, reaching $100 million after the PPV upside.

Per Sports Payouts, Canelo earned a guaranteed $15 million for the John Ryder fight. It was rumored that he took a $10 million pay cut for the fight to be contested in Mexico. Canelo initially signed a three-fight deal with Premier Boxing Champions worth $100 million. Facing Jermell Charlo under the first fight of the deal, he made about $25-$30 million.

Against Jason Quigley, Berlanga allegedly made six figures.

Berlanga recently signed a multi-year deal with Matchroom Boxing after years with Top Rank. It is unknown the amount he is being paid.

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UNBEATEN SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT KEVIN BROWN TRAINING CAMP NOTES 

ORLANDO, FL – Boxlab Promotions’ unbeaten super lightweight contender Kevin Brown (5-0, 3 KOs) is preparing for the biggest fight of his career as he takes on the highly-ranked John Bauza (18-1, 8 KOs) for the WBA Super Lightweight Continental Americas title. The 10-round bout is set to take place on Friday, September 6, 2024, at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, FL, as part of MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects 8 series. The event will be broadcast live globally as part of the DAZN subscription package. Tickets for Most Valuable Prospects 8 are available now at Ticketmaster.com.

Brown, who is training in Las Vegas under the guidance of renowned coach Ismael Salas, has been putting in the hard work to ensure he is fully prepared for the challenge that lies ahead. The Cuban-born fighter has been getting elite sparring with some of the best boxers in Las Vegas, fine-tuning his skills and strategy for the biggest test of his career. Here is what he had to say about his recent training camp, his matchup with John Bauza, what a win will do for his career and more.

On his recent training camp:

“It’s been a very tough training camp as coach Ismael Salas has taken my preparation to a whole new level. I’ve been sparring with some of the best fighters in the city, which has me ready for war and built my confidence. I’ve done all the necessary roadwork and strength training. Every session has elevated me, and I feel more prepared than ever for this fight.”

On his matchup with John Bauza:

“Bauza is a tough opponent with a strong record, but I believe I have the tools to come out on top. I’ve studied his style, and, with the help of my team, we’ve developed a solid game plan. I’m ready to show that I belong among the best in the division. He’s a very skilled fighter, but I believe I’m on another level.”

On what a win will do for his career:

“A win in this fight would be a huge step forward for me. Capturing the WBA Super Lightweight Continental Americas title puts me in position to climb the rankings and get me one step closer to a world title shot. This is the kind of fight that changes a career, and I’m ready to seize the moment.”

On fighting globally on DAZN:

“Fighting on a global platform like DAZN is an incredible opportunity. I’m excited to showcase my skills to a worldwide audience and prove that I belong with the elite in the super lightweight division.”

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K2 Promotions confirms date and venue of Usyk-Fury rematch

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

The second fight between WBO, WBA, and WBC world champion Oleksandr Usyk (22-0, 14 KOs) and Tyson Fury (34-1-1, 24 KOs) will be held on 21 December.

Source: Klitschko brothers promotion company K2 Promotions, as reported by Champion, a sports news platform within Ukrainska Pravda’s holding company

It should be noted that the status of absolute world champion will not be at stake in the rematch, as Oleksandr has vacated the IBF belt. The Ukrainian will give up the belt for the battle between interim champion Daniel Dubois (21-2, 20 KOs) and Anthony Joshua (28-3, 25 KOs).

Background: On the night of 18-19 May, Oleksandr Usyk defeated Tyson Fury, becoming the first undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis and the first to hold all four heavyweight belts.

**LAS VEGAS MEDIA ALERT**

ERISLANDY LARA, CALEB PLANT, ROLANDO ROMERO & TREVOR MCCUMBY TO HOLD LAS VEGAS

 MEDIA WORKOUT

Tuesday, August 27 – Pound 4 Pound Gym at 12:30 p.m. PT

Canelo vs. Berlanga Headlined PBC Pay-Per-View Available on

 Prime Video Takes Place Saturday, September 14 from

T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas

*Event to Stream Live on the Premier Boxing Champions YouTube Page*

WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara, former super middleweight world champion Caleb Plant, former super lightweight world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and unbeaten contender Trevor McCumby will hold a media workout in Las Vegas to preview their respective showdowns taking place Saturday, September 14 on a PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Canelo Promotions will present the Mexican Independence Day weekend blockbuster headlined by pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his unified super middleweight world titles on the line against unbeaten WBA No. 1-ranked mandatory contender Edgar Berlanga.

Lara will defend his world title against two-division world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia in the star studded co-main event, plus Plant and McCumby will square off for the Interim WBA Super Middleweight Title, while Romero takes on Manuel Jaimes in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

ABOUT CANELO VS. BERLANGA

Canelo vs. Berlanga will deliver the latest installment of the historic Mexico vs. Puerto Rico rivalry as Canelo Promotions presents pound-for-pound great and Mexican superstar Canelo Álvarez putting his unified WBC, WBA and WBO Super Middleweight World Titles on the line against undefeated WBA No. 1-Ranked Mandatory Contender Edgar Berlanga headlining a Mexican Independence Day weekend extravaganza topping a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video taking place Saturday, Sept. 14 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The star-studded co-main event will feature Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara taking on hard-hitting two-division world champion and Puerto Rican star Danny “Swift” García in a 12-round showdown between two of this era’s most accomplished fighters.

Plus, former super middleweight world champion Caleb Plant will take on undefeated contender Trevor McCumby for the Interim WBA Super Middleweight Title, while the former 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero steps into the ring against the hard-hitting Manuel Jaimes in a 10-round bout opening the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to purchase the PPV via DAZN.com. Additionally, fans can purchase the PPV at PPV.com. On top of those options, fans will continue to be able to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets.

Preceding the pay-per-view former unified world champion Stephen Fulton Jr. will take on all-action contender Carlos Castro in a featherweight clash that will headline a three-fight PBC on Prime Video lineup. The live-streaming action will begin at 6:00 p.m. ET/3:00 p.m. PT and be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card it leads into.

The streaming presentation will also feature hard-hitting welterweight Roiman Villa dueling Mexico’s Ricardo Salas in a 10-round battle, plus unbeaten prospect Jonathan Lopez squares off against Richard Medina in an eight-round super featherweight clash that kicks off the action.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now through AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, in association with Matchroom Boxing.

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Star Boxing Presents: Rockin’ Fights 48 

Saturday, September 14th, 2024 

The Paramount Theater, Huntington, LI

UNDEFEATED vs. UNDEFEATED

Brooklyn Super-Middleweight Champ Junior Younan

Defends Title vs Lulzim Bajrami 

Story By Leonard Carmichael

Huntington, New York, Star Boxing’s undefeated prodigy

Junior ‘The Young God’ Younan will defend his Super Middleweight title, when he squares off with undefeated Luzlim Bajrami, in a 10-round title bout at

Rockin’ Fights 48 at The Paramount in Huntington, New York.

The card is the latest in the highly acclaimed series promoted by

Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

Younan, 28 of Brooklyn is 20-0-1 with 12 knockouts. Younan made his Star Boxing debut on May 11th and captured the WBA Continental American Gold Super Middleweight crown, with a first-round stoppage of Ricardo Luna at The Paramount Theater.

Bajrami, 26 a tough Macedonian now living in Hamburg, Germany is 9-0 with four knockouts. Bajrami, who has a win over previously undefeated Janne Rantanen, will be making his United States debut and is coming off a win over 74 fight veteran Milos Janjanin on June 1st in Germany.

Thrilling Undercard:

The undercard will also have a host of enticing matchups.  

In yet another fight between undefeated prospects Mexican sensation Erick Perez takes on Bronxite Joseph Elzey in Battle of undefeated Super Bantamweights.

A fan favorite from New Jersey, Perez is thrilled to represent his heritage on Mexican Independence weekend. With his trademark “El Canete” headband, the undefeated Perez (2-0, 1 KO) resembles a miniature Canelo and rocked the Paramount in his last two appearances there with his Mexican fighting style. 

Elzey, who has an identical record of 2-0 with one knockout, will be looking to continue to momentum after defeating previously undefeated Miguel Roman (4-0) on June 15th in Atlantic City. The Perez-Elzey fight figures to be a thriller. 

In a six-round super middleweight bout, fan favorite, FDNY Firefighter, Louis Maietta (4-4-2, 1 KO) of Bronx, New York takes on Jeremiah Truhlar (1-4-2) of Temple, Texas, who is a US Army flamethrower.

In highly anticipated 6 round bout, Star Boxing’s Ronny Reyes (4-1, 1 KO) of New York City takes on undefeated Yan Carlos Perez (2-0, 2 KOs) of the Dominican Republic in a featherweight bout.

Undefeated Rodrigo Marte (3-0, 2 KOs) of the Dominican Republic takes on Italy’s Yacouba Said (3-1) in a featherweight bout.

David Malul of Queens, New York will make his pro debut against Lucien Hannah

(0-1) of Kingston, New York in a four-round junior middleweight bout.

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Oleksandr Usyk vs. Tyson Fury: Promoter claims former belt holder could be on Fight Card

Story by Salvador Ramirez

Serhii Bohachuk’s promoter believes that his fighter could now benefit from an impressive performance against Vergil Ortiz Jr.

While Ortiz won the WBC super welterweight interim belt a couple of weeks ago on a decision scorecard, many praised the Ukrainian’s efforts that night.

“Serhii’s star skyrocketed after this fight. I don’t know why no one gave him a chance heading into this fight. He was a five-to-one underdog,” he said. 

“It was great that Alalshikh was there in person to see how great of a performance Serhii put on. He also said that he thought Serhii won that fight, or at worst, it should have been a draw. He really liked Serhii. 

“He came up to us after the fight and said that he wanted Serhii on a future show by the end of this year. It could definitely be on the December 21 show in Saudi Arabia. Serhii is ready to go. It would be great to have Serhii on the show, as his fellow Ukrainian heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk takes on Tyson Fury.”

He continued: “The division is so hot and there are so many great matchups to be made.

“Serhii is in the top three to five in the division. Serhii has earned the right to fight any of the top names. The one thing with Serhii is that you are never going to see a boring fight.”

The next Riyadh Season fight sees Anthony Joshua challenge Daniel Dubois for the IBF heavyweight championship, live on DAZN on September 21.

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Fighters Mingle Once Again at John Scully’s Amateur Boxers Reunion

Story by Kirk Lang

Photos by Alyssa Lang

Former light heavyweight world title challenger John Scully – who has recently been in the spotlight for raising funds for retired boxers – held his latest Amateur Boxers Reunion at Diamante’s Bar on 8^th Avenue on August 10. Diamante’s, owned by ring announcer David Diamante, is one block over from the famed Madison Square Garden, otherwise known as “The World’s Most Famous Arena.” 

Scully has made his reunions at least an annual event, though sometimes he organizes two or three gatherings within a calendar year. The first one was held in Las Vegas, Nevada in 2014, and earlier this year, a mingling of pugilists took place in Detroit, Michigan. 

“I’ve got a guy here I fought 40 years ago, and I haven’t seen him since,” said Scully, amidst a packed house at Diamante’s. “I see guys I looked up to when I was a kid. I see guys that I sparred with. I love seeing guys see each other.” 

He added, “Guys who haven’t seen each other in years, but they fought each other. When you fight a guy in a tournament, you don’t even talk to him. You just fight and that’s it, but when you see each other 25, 40 years later, it’s like you’re best friends. It is like you’re family. People would think you know each other. It’s like, nah, I haven’t spoken to him in my life.”

A broadcast of the Olympics competition was playing on multiple screens at Diamante’s, but no one was paying attention, as it wasn’t Olympic boxing. Rather, former opponents knocked back drinks, or not, and traded memories of days past, while others caught up to men they idolized when they were starting out in boxing. In one corner of the room, former middleweight and super middleweight contender Michael Olajide could be seen sitting with a young man who seemed to be enjoying stories from the charismatic and still very lean former fighter who once traded leather with the legendary Thomas “Hitman” Hearns. 

Others who made  it to the reunion, to name a few, included former WBO heavyweight champion Shannon Briggs; former WBA middleweight champion William Joppy; former three-division world champion Iran Barkley; ex-welterweight title challenger Larry Barnes; former WBO super bantam king Junior Jones; former middleweight champion Vito Antuofermo; 1970s welterweight contender Harold Weston, Jr.; former #1 lightweight contender Israel “Pito” Cardona; ex-WBO middlewieght king Lonnie Bradley; former Olympian Jerson Ravelo; popular former middleweight contender “Ireland’s” John Duddy;  former IBF cruiserweight champion Al “Ice” Cole; Randy Gordon, former chairman of the New York State Athletic Commission;  and former welterweight champion Aaron “Superman” Davis. 

Davis attended last year’s reunion and came back for more. 

“It feels good to be here,” he said.  

Junior Jones had similar sentiments. “It’s great to see all these great guys from the past and the future, it’s great just to mingle with everybody,” he said.  

Father-son duo Alonzo Beckett Sr. and Alonzo Beckett Jr., of the New England Video Production and Ad Agency, conducted interviews with dozens of boxers near the second-floor bar entrance to capture fight career recollections for future generations. 

Former New England Golden Gloves champion Shakha Moore (1995), came to Manhattan from Norwalk to take it all in. It was his first ever John Scully Amateur Boxers Reunion. 

“What I love about it is you get to reunite with old friends, and you get to see some of your old professional fighters. I saw William Joppy and Al “Ice Cole”  

Milton K. Luban, who deals in boxing collectibles, had a table of pictures and gloves in a corner area that fans could purchase to get autographed. Briggs, taller than everyone at the gathering and with a personality to match his height, was one of the most sought after for signatures and photos.  

Steve Nusser – who fought international competition in his amateur days, including against Russian and West German boxers, and lost in the semi-finals of 1982 Golden Gloves competition to future Olympic and world champion Mark Breland – said “it’s an honor to be here among all these legends.”  

Nusser added, “I got so much joy from watching them. They inspired me and hopefully I inspired somebody who saw me.” 

Mount Vernon, New York-based Larry Barnes, who lost a welterweight title challenge to the great Felix “Tito” Trinidad in 1995, enjoys the reunions.  “It feels good being with all these guys because we don’t see each other like we used to at the fights, so when we get together it’s really special.”  

Scully had reunion T-shirts available at the latest reunion and estimates he sold about $500 worth. Money raised will help fighters in need, for general expenses, and to help them attend events like the reunions and the annual Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame gala. 

“I raise the money for these guys because I want them to be a part of it,” said Scully.  

Former WBO middleweight champion Lonnie Bradley was enjoying his first reunion. “This is my first with the boxers,” he said. “I’m running into all the faces that inspired me, that helped me come along in the sport, and grew up with me in this sport.”  

Bradley said he wasn’t hoping to run into anyone in particular, “just that older group of fighters from back then, I would say, the mid-1980s, so these are the guys I’ve been looking forward to meeting since I turned pro.” 

Questions/Comments: [email protected]

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Gervonta Davis vs. Shakur Stevenson: Davis trainer makes bold prediction for potential showdown

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

Kenny Ellis, a co-trainer for Gervonta Davis, believes a potential clash with Shakur Stevenson is not a 50-50 fight. 

Following Davis’ win over Frank Martin in June, there have been calls for Davis to face the undefeated WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson next. 

If a fight between the two did get made, it would be a huge event with both men notable stars in American boxing. 

When it comes to picking a winner, many struggle to separate Davis and Stevenson, but Ellis explained why “Tank” is a clear favorite. 

“They can’t be 50-50 if Tank can punch and Shakur can’t punch,” Ellis said in a podcast with Cigar Talk and The Rize.

“They both can box. They both got a great IQ. Let’s say Tank is behind and he got to get himself out of trouble, and that motherf—r’s hammer is going to get him out of trouble.

“Now let’s say Shakur’s behind and he got to get himself out of trouble. How he going to get himself out of trouble? He don’t have no hammer. So they’re not 50-50. They can’t be 50-50.”

This fight may not be a difficult one to make with Stevenson a promotional free agent after his deal with Top Rank came to an end following a successful WBC lightweight title defense against Artem Harutyunyan last month. 

Shakur Stevenson, the talented 27-year-old boxer from Newark has been waiting for quite a few weeks to find an opponent after defeating Artem Harutyunyan on points in July and he has finally closed his next fight.

One of the biggest talents in the sport, Gervonta Davis, was among the favorites to take on Stevenson next, as both men are regarded as two of the best fighters in boxing right now.

Both men expressed their desire to face each other in what would be one of the biggest events in boxing. While Davis was expected to take on Vasiliy Lomachenko at the end of the year, the Ukrainian decided to take some time off, so Tank had no rival, which paved the way for a clash with Stevenson.

However, both men won’t fight, not for now. Gervonta hasn’t yet an opponent, but Stevenson has agreed to take on another fighter, Joe Cordina. They will fight on the Dmitry Bivol vs. Artur Beterbiev undercard on October 12th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The fight was made official after Stevenson signed a one-fight deal with Eddie Hearn. That’s why he will face Matchroom fighter Cordina, who lost his IBF super featherweight title last May to Anthony Cacace via an eighth-round knockout.

Stevenson signed a one-fight deal with Matchroom because he’s planning on fighting Davis in 2025 when he will be a free agent again and be able to negotiate with Tank.

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IBF welterweight champion Jaron “Boots” Ennis Set for Karen Chukhadzhian Rematch Under IBF Order

Story by Alexander R. Rinaldi

As the IBF has mandated a rematch between the two boxers, Jaron “Boots” Ennis is preparing for yet another meeting with Karen Chukhadzhian. The undefeated IBF welterweight champion Ennis will once more face the Armenian rival from Ukraine-born background who earlier fell short against him.

The IBF issued the mandate on July 31, which prepares the ground for the probably November showdown. Matchroom Sport chairman Eddie Hearn claims that Ennis, who marks his second consecutive home defense, is scheduled to host the rematch in Philadelphia. Currently ranked as best welterweight, Ennis has a perfect record of 31-0 including 28 knockouts.

Chukhadzhian is his challenger, he ranks as the No. 1 in the IBF. The 28-year-old Kiev native firmly defeated Harry Scarff from England in May 17 IBF IBF title eliminator in Germany. Since his loss to Ennis in January 2023, Chukhadzhian has won three consecutive wins including this last one.

Ennis dominated in their previous bout, scoring all twelve rounds on the judges’ scorecards (120-108). With 19 of his last 20 opponents knocked out, the bout broke a six-year streak of stoppage victories for Ennis. Since then, Ennis has added two more stoppage victories—a ninth-round TKO against Roiman Villa in July, so solidifying his entire IBF welterweight championship.

Initially paired with Terence Crawford, the undisputed welterweight champion, Ennis was lined up for a title unification fight. But Crawford’s rematch agreement with Errol Spence stopped that from happening. Originally dismantling Spence to retain his titles, Crawford has now left his WBC and WBO welterweight belts and is now running at 154 pounds.

Matchroom Boxing has looked at other possible pairings for Ennis, including one with WBC titleholder Mario Barrios and another with Vergil Ortiz. But given the IBF deadline is fastly approaching, Ennis appears to satisfy his mandatory defense against Chukhadzhian.

Ennis’ scheduled July 13 fight against Cody Crowley was canceled when Crowley was medically disqualified for an eye injury. This left Ennis to carry out his required responsibilities, so arranging the forthcoming rematch with Chukhadzhian. All eyes will be on Philadelphia as the bout date draws near to see if Ennis can keep his perfect record and carry on his supremacy in the welterweight class.

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Ultimate goal of Middle East Professional Boxing to Crown first Arab World Champion

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

ABU DHABI, U.A.E. (August 20, 2024) — The Middle East Professional Boxing (MEPB) commission has become a pivotal group working behind the scenes to support efforts by Saudi Arabia (Riyadh) and United Arab Emirates (Dubai and Abu Dhabi) to successfully challenge Las Vegas and New York City as premier hubs for the “Sweet Science”.

In addition to hosting some of the most popular and lucrative pay-per-view boxing events during the past few years, the Middle East is rapidly developing Arab boxing talent towards its ultimate quest to eventually crown the first Arab professional boxing champion of the world.

Under the leadership of Jose Mohan, MEPB is playing a critical role in support of the Middle East’s development as the new and future face of professional boxing.

“We are incredibly proud of several achievements including our position as the main commission for an historic moment, the undisputed heavyweight title (Oleksandr Usyk vs. Tyson Fury) fight in Riyadh, the biggest fight of this century,” Mr. Mohan said. “We’ve now sanctioned more than 100 shows to demonstrate our rapid growth and impact in the region to become the first regional organization to sanction shows independently, eliminating the need for foreign commissions. We’re also proud to have played a key role in commissioning major events like the Anthony Joshua vs. Oleksandr Usyk and Jake Paul vs. Tommy Fury fights.”

Mohan noted that there are several factors contributing to boxing’s rising popularity in the Middle East, attributing its incredible success to foresight, anticipating boxing’s eventual rise in the region, albeit not necessarily on the current grand scale seen in Saudi Arabia, which has hosted several of the most lucrative and popular events in the world the past few years.

There were several boxing promoters in the region the past five or six years paving the path for boxing and then MEPB started commissioning fights, including world title bouts and regional championships, which helped establish its credibility and expertise. Government initiatives, particularly Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and UAE’s focus on sports, have used boxing as a dramatically successful instrument for development and this has fairly worked well.”

Boxing was relatively unknown in the region, but MEPB has worked extremely hard to change that, investing millions of dollars, commissioning more than 100 shows and 10 years of persistent effort to reach its current level.

“MEPB’s creation was driven by necessity,” Mohan explained. “The region lacked a local boxing commission, hindering event organization and fighter participation. We addressed this by bringing in experts to train our local team, and investing significant time, effort, and finances. We have persevered through more than 100 shows over a decade and this journey required patience and strong financial backing. While we’ve made great strides, we continue to learn and improve. Our story exemplifies how we identified a critical need in the region’s boxing scene and worked tirelessly to fill it, establishing MEPB as a cornerstone for Middle Eastern boxing

“We’re confident that the growth of boxing in the Middle East will continue to accelerate. This growth is manifesting in two distinct but complementary ways: in Saudi Arabia, we’re seeing the hosting of super fights – major international boxing events that attract global attention; in Abu Dhabi, though, there’s a focus on building grassroots boxing programs, which are crucial for developing local talent and creating a sustainable boxing ecosystem.”

In addition to branding the Middle East as an ascending power in boxing, MEPB is also heavily involved in the Rising Stars series that shines the spotlight on rapidly developing Arab boxers. The Rising Stars platform plays a crucial role in the growth of boxing throughout the region. While Saudi Arabia is hosting high-profile super fights with international stars, MEPB recognizes that these fighters will eventually retire and that  it’s essential to develop the next generation of boxing talent, focusing on developing talent from the Middle East, North Africa, India, Pakistan, and Iran. Rising Stars aims to create global prospects, not only regional ones.

“The goal is to see Arab boxers headlining main events in Arabic countries,” Mohan added. “With 500 million people in the Middle East and North Africa, we believe one star could gain millions of supporters. Rising Stars is part of (series promoter) Ahmed Seddiqi’s vision to see an Arab champion, supported by Abu Dhabi tourism.

“As a commission, we strongly support initiatives that focus on local talent and grassroots development. We endorse promotions that share our vision of growing the sport and developing fighters from the region. Their success is commendable and contributes significantly to our overall mission of elevating boxing in the Middle East.”

MEPB’s short-term  goals include strengthening the ecosystem with additional trained ring doctors and officials, generating awareness about the sport, and encouraging more kids to take up boxing professionally or for fitness. Long-term, MEPB wants more regional promoters who understand the sport and also how the business works, more managers coming out of the region, and better coaches training fighters. MEPB will also educate  people about boxing safety and produce world-class referees, judges, and global promoters from the region. Ultimately, its goal is to crown the first Arab world champion.

“Our ultimate target is to have an Arab world champion,” Mohan concluded, “It’s the reason for the investments in super fights in Saudi Arabia and grassroots boxing in Abu Dhabi. At the end of the day, we want to see a champion coming out of the Arab region. This is the goal of MEPB and promoters. We have a realistic 3 to 5-year plan to achieve this. We are very confident that whatever we see happening in the region will actually turn into a reality.

“We’re already seeing promising signs of progress towards our ultimate goal. Several Arab boxers — Moroccan super featherweight Moussa Gholam (22-1, 13 KOs), Jordanian lightweight Bader Al-Dherat (11-0, 8 KOs), UAE super flyweight Sultan Al Nuaimi (11-0, 7 KOs) and super featherweight Fahad Al Bloushi (15-1, 3 KOs) — are on the verge of breaking into the top 15 rankings of major sanctioning bodies, which is a significant milestone that demonstrates the rising quality of our regional talent. We’re getting closer to the day when a regional talent will headline a major event in a stadium in Riyadh or Abu Dhabi. This prospect is not just exciting but also represents the realization of our long-term vision.”

Boxing is rapidly changing for the better; the Middle East Professional Boxing commission is playing a significant role.

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MVP’S JAVON “WANNA” WALTON TO FACE ERIK HANLEY IN CO-MAIN EVENT OF MOST VALUABLE PROSPECTS 8 ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 IN ORLANDO, FL, PROMOTED BY BOXLAB PROMOTIONS AND AVAILABLE GLOBALLY ON DAZN

13-0 Dominican talent Hendri Cedeno vs. Enriko Gogokhia and rising Cuban standout Yoelvis Gomez join main card

Top-10 ranked WBA bantamweight Bree Howling vs. Beata Dudek, Harley Mederos vs. Nikolai Buzolin, Antraveous Ingram vs. Cruse Stewart confirmed for Most Valuable Prospects 8 preliminary card

NEW YORK, NY – August 20, 2024 – MVP today announced that 18-year-old boxing prodigy and actor Javon “Wanna” Walton (1-0-1, 1 KO) will be facing professional boxer Erik Hanley (1-1, 1 KO) over 4 rounds at super featherweight in the co-main event of MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects 8. The event will take place on Friday, September 6 at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, FL, available globally as part of the DAZN subscription package with Boxlab Promotions serving as the official licensed promoter. The main card of Most Valuable Prospects 8, presented by CELSIUS Live Fit Essential Energy and sponsored by Fansly and Event Ticket Center, will be headlined by a 10-round super lightweight showdown between Boxlab Promotions’ rising Cuban star Kevin Brown (5-0, 3 KOs) and seasoned Puerto Rican contender John Bauza (18-1, 8 KOs) for the WBA Super Lightweight Continental Americas title. Joining the main card will be 26-year-old Dominican talent Hendri “La Bazuca” Cedeno (13-0, 10 KOs) vs. Enriko “Gudan” Gogokhia (13-1-2, 8 KOs) in an 8 round super lightweight fight. The 26-year-old rising Cuban standout Yoelvis “La Joya” Gomez (7-1, 6 KOs) will also compete in an 8 round middleweight fight on the main card. Tickets for Most Valuable Prospects 8 are available now at Ticketmaster.com.

Javon “Wanna” Walton (1-0-1, 1 KO) aims for his second professional win on Friday, September 6. Walton signed with MVP in July 2023 and fought to a split draw in his global debut in MVP’s marquee event in March 2024. As the youngest-ever athlete to sign with Nike’s Jordan Brand, Walton has continued to excel as a boxer. Walton began boxing at the age of four, and at age eight became one of America’s youngest amateur prospects. His skill and hard work earned him the title of multi-time Junior Regional Champion and two-time Junior Olympic national silver medalist. The Atlanta native is also a world-renowned actor who captured international attention with his debut role as the beloved drug dealer “Ashtray” in the HBO Max Emmy-winning series Euphoria starring alongside Hollywood icons Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney, and has since continued to co-star in numerous other film and TV titles. He trains under his father and coach, DJ Walton. Walton will now take on 30-year-old professional boxer Erik Hanley (1-1, 1 KO) in the co-main event of Most Valuable Prospects 8. Hanley, a fierce competitor, comes to the ring from Rancho Cordova, California by way of Oceanside, New York, ready to challenge Walton’s rise to professional stardom. Hanley most recently secured a KO victory in the ring in February 2024. 

In an 8-round super lightweight bout on the main card, 26-year-old talent Hendri “La Bazuca” Cedeno (13-0, 10 KOs) will take on Enriko “Gudan” Gogokhia (13-1-2, 8 KOs). Cedeno, from La Romana, Dominican Republic, turned professional in May 2021, collecting an impressive 13 wins in just under three years before joining Team Combat League’s Philly Smoke in April 2024. Cedeno is promoted by Boxlab Promotions and now returns to the professional ranks to take on a true test in Gogokhia. The seasoned Gogokhia, a Georgian-born Ukrainian, began his career in kickboxing in Europe before moving to the United States and taking up boxing in 2016. He fights out of Woodland Hills, California and will look to end Cedeno’s undefeated run at Most Valuable Prospects 8.

Also on the main card will be the 26-year-old rising Cuban standout Yoelvis “La Joya” Gomez (7-1, 6 KOs), who will compete in an 8 round middleweight fight against a to-be-announced opponent. Gomez comes to the ring from Las Vegas, Nevada by way of Havana, Cuba following a strong start to his professional career since his professional debut in 2019. A hopeful future title contender, Gomez will seek to demonstrate his knockout power in the ring on Friday, September 6. He is promoted by Boxlab Promotions and Warriors Boxing.

On the preliminary card, top-10 WBA ranked Bree “Bam Bam” Howling (7-0, 2 KOs) will face Hungary’s Beata Dudek (4-3, 4 KOs) in an 8-round bantamweight bout. The 26-year-old Howling comes to the ring from Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Following her professional debut in September 2019, Howling has worked up an impressive undefeated 7-0 record, advancing to #8 on the WBA’s world rankings of top female bantamweight talents. Howling is promoted by Boxlab Promotions and Kings Promotions and now aims to continue her undefeated streak on Friday, September 6. She will take on Beata Dudek, the 31-year-old from Miskolc, Hungary by way of Nové Zámky, Slovakia. Dudek steps into the ring on Friday, September 6 ready to leverage her taller 5’7” stature and knockout power against the smaller 5’4” Howling. 

In a 6 round lightweight bout on the preliminary card, 24-year-old Harley “Dennis the Menace” Mederos (6-0, 5 KOs) will take on Russia’s Nikolai Buzolin (9-9-1, 5 KOs). The young talent Mederos comes to the ring from Brooklyn, NY ready to prove he has what it takes to become a title contender. Buzolin, coming to the ring from Brooklyn, NY by way of Tyumen, Russia, will aim to ruin Mederos’s undefeated streak, leveraging his additional professional experience against the younger Mederos. 

Returning to the Most Valuable Prospects series will be local talent Antraveous Ingram (7-0, 2 KOs), who will take on Cruse “Hitman” Stewart (8-3, 6 KOs) over 6 rounds at junior middleweight on the preliminary card. Ingram, the 25-year-old from Kissimmee, Florida, most recently took home a unanimous decision victory over Luis Solis on Most Valuable Prospects 6 in May 2024. His opponent, Stewart, comes to the ring from Maple Grove, Minnesota by way of Rock Island, Illinois. Stewart will make his Most Valuable Prospects debut as he looks to leverage his power and experience to earn his ninth professional win. 

“Most Valuable Prospects 8 on Friday, September 6 marks the highly anticipated return of Wanna Walton” said Nakisa Bidarian and Jake Paul, co-founders of MVP. “Wanna will be testing himself against a strong fighter in Erik Hanley in the co-main event as he continues to prove his standout star potential and looks to collect his second professional win. We’re proud to feature an incredible women’s fight between Canadian top-ranked WBA contender Bree Howling vs. a relentless athlete in Beata Dudek. As we continue to develop this series and identify the next big names in boxing, we’re excited to welcome back multiple promising talents to the series, including Kevin Hayler Brown in our main event and Antraveous Ingram on our preliminary card. We appreciate Boxlab Promotions, DAZN and CELSIUS for their continued commitment to bringing this incredible night of boxing to Orlando.”

“Caribe Royale is once again excited to be working with MVP to bring this exciting event to Central Florida,” said Amaury Piedra, Managing Director of Caribe Royale Resort and President of Boxlab Promotions. “From top to bottom, this is a stacked card culminating with the WBA title bout featuring a Cuba vs. Puerto Rico battle. In addition, there are great bouts ranging from female prospects to future stars like Yoelvis Gomez, Wanna Walton, and hot local prospect Antraveous Ingram. Caribe Royale prides itself on bringing world class entertainment to Central Florida both for our guests and locals alike, this is just another step in that direction. It’ll be an action packed evening for local attendees and those watching on DAZN as well!”

The Most Valuable Prospects series is produced and marketed by MVP with Boxlab Promotions serving as the official licensed promoter and is distributed globally by DAZN. The eighth event in the series will continue the commitment from MVP co-founders Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian to highlight the world’s best up-and-coming boxing talent. All events within Most Valuable Prospects will take place on Friday nights in 2024. CELSIUS Live Fit Essential Energy, maker of lifestyle energy drink, is the exclusive energy drink sponsor of MVP and the Most Valuable Prospects series. Fansly and Event Ticket Center have also joined on to sponsor the Most Valuable Prospects as well.

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions and @DAZNBoxing or on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions and @DAZNBoxing.

About MVP

MVP was founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021. With the mission to provide more creative control to fighters, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its own events and talent partners. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. MVP have produced Jake Paul’s last five global pay-per-view events, including the recent Paul vs. Diaz match. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April of 2022 when Serrano went head to head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden, recently earning a nomination for Event of The Year by Sports Business Journal. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., which was the 8th most bought pay-per-view event in history.

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Matt Conway Battles James Bernadin for the WBA Regional Lightweight Title on Friday, September 20th at The Wind Creek Event Center in Bethlehem, PA

Undefeated Euri Cedeno, Julian Gonzalez and Devon Young on the Card

Francis Oran Takes on Ali Ellis Local Favorite Joseph Adorno Bethlehem Heavyweight Title Fight Between Adam Atiyeh and Mike Liberto

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – August 20, 2024 — Championship boxing will come to the Wind Creek Event Center on Friday night, September 20th as veterans Matt Conway and James Bernadin duel in an eight-round bout for the WBA Regional Lightweight title.

That bout will top a card promoted by King’s Promotions.

Conway, 29 of Pittsburgh has a record of 22-4 with nine knockouts. The nine-year vet has defeated Zach Kuhn (9-2-1), Victor Abreu (9-2) and Adriano Porfirio Ramirez (10-1). Conway is looking to get back in the win column after losing a decision to Hendri Cedeno on May 31st in Orlando, Florida.

Bernadin of Lancaster, PA is 12-2-1 with six knockouts. The 31-year-old Bernadin is a six-year professional who has garnered wins over Osvaldo Morales (4-0), Edgar Torres (8-2-1), Kenny Robles (9-1) and his most recent outing when he took a split decision over Johnny Spell (8-1) on April 5th at The Wind Creek Event Center.

In an eight-round co-feature, undefeated middleweight Euri Cedeno (9-0-1, 8 KOs) of Reading, PA takes on Aro Schwartz (23-8-1, 15 KOs) of Karlsruhe, Denmark.

Also in eight-round bouts, Julian Gonzalez (14-0-1, 11 KOs) of Reading, PA battles Oscar Barajas (7-9-1,2 KOs) of Toms River, NJ in a super featherweight bout..

Joseph Adorno (19-4-2, 16 KOs) of Allentown, PA fights Luis May (22-18-1) of Cancun, Mexico in a junior welterweight bout.

Brittany Sims (6-3, 3 KOs) of Bethlehem, PA will take on Nancy Franco (19-20-2, 5 KOs) of Jalisco, Mexico in a bantamweight bout.

In Six-round bouts:

Francis Oran (5-1, 2 KOs) of Bethlehem, PA fights Ali Ellis (5-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia in a cruiserweight fight.

Khainell Wheeler (7-5, 6 KOs) of Allentown, PA takes on an opponent to be named in a super middleweight contest.

In four-round bouts, Devon Young (4-0, 3 KOs) of Atlanta squares off with Joseph Bonos (0-6) of Orlando in a heavyweight bout.

In a battle of the “Bethlehem Heavyweight Championship”, Adam Atiyeh (1-0) takes on Mike Liberto

Tickets are now on sale for $150, $100, $75 and $50 at the following link:

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WORLD’S GREATEST PROMOTER DON KING PROMISES AN EXTRAVAGANZA WITH RETURN OF WBC WORLD CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPION NOEL “THE DARK HORSE” MIKAELIAN on SATURDAY, SEPT. 28 AT CASINO MIAMI JAI ALAI

Karen

MIAMI, FL (August 20, 2024) — The World’s Greatest Promoter, Don King, has announced the return to the ring of WBC World Cruiserweight Champion Noel “The Dark Horse” Mikaelian (27-2, 12 KOs) as he faces Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki (20-1, 19 KOs) in an explosive night of fights set for Saturday, Sept. 28 at Casino Miami Jai Alai.

Mikaelian from Yerevan, Armenia, fighting out of Miami, was originally scheduled to defend his world title Rozicki from Ontario, Canada, on June 7 but the fight was postponed due to a cut Mikaelian suffered in training near his eye.

“It was disappointing that I wasn’t able to face ‘The Bruiser’ in June, but my injury has healed to perfection and I’m ready to go,” Mikaelian said. “I can’t wait for September 28^th and to defend my world title during this massive Don King event.”

King said there is no debate that the matchup is between the world’s top cruiserweights fighting at the 200-pound limit. “Even minus the Mikaelian-Rozicki matchup we had a near-sellout crowd at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood in June headlined by Biair “The Flair” Cobbs and Adrien “The Problem” Broner,” King said. “The word is out that we are still producing the best fights in all of boxing and fights that the world wants to see and that boxing fans are clamoring for!”

King added the September fight date was previously discussed to take place September 14th but moved off that date because of the busy combat sports calendar with Mexican superstate Canelo Alvarez fighting, as well as the first UFC fight at the Sphere in Las Vegas. 

Added Rozicki, the WBC’s No. 1 contender and ranked No. 8 by the WBA. “I’m glad we were able to reschedule this fight, and now I will finally get what is rightfully mine. Mikaelian can’t delay my date with destiny any longer and I will put that world title belt around my waist come September 28^th.”

The Don King Productions fight card will be broadcast on Pay Per View via Triller TV, DonKing.com and Itube247.com.

Tickets, priced starting from $25, are on sale now and can be purchased at www.playcasinomiami.com. Floor seats are $150, ringside seats are $750, and next level tables $2,500. 

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Former New England Welterweight Champion and Top Welterweight Contender Dick French passed away at age 84

Story by Hennry Hascup

Dick French – The former New England Welterweight Champion from Providence, Rhode Island, active from 1962 to 1970, passed away on August 8, 2024, at age 84.

He was born Richard J. French, Sr. In Moosup, Connecticut, on October 29, 1939, and compiled a record of 42-22-3 (KO 17/KO by 9). He held the New England Welterweight title from March 18, 1963, to March 1965. He split two fights with Former Welterweight Champion Billy Backus (W UD 8, L TKO 6), defeated Eddie Spence, Paul Christie, Dick Knight, Grey Gavin, Willie James, Gene Herrick, Tyrone Gardner, Johnny Torres, Al Durate, lost to Len Matthews, Ted Whitfield, Donato Paduano, Miguel Barreto, Lloyd Marshall, Joey Durelle, Brad Silas, Billy Lonergan, and Manny Burgo, and drew with Len Sparks. 

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Mike “Bad Man” Ohan, Jr. to take on undefeated prospect Abdullah Mason 

This Saturday exclusively streamed live on ESPN+ from Quebec City

Story By Alexander Rinaldi

QUINCY, Mass. (August 13, 2024) – Former New England Welterweight Champion Mike “Bad Man” Ohan, Jr. (19-2, 9 KOs) has stepped up once again, accepting an offer to fight undefeated, highly-touted prospect Abdullah Mason (14-0, 12 KOs), this Saturday night (Aug. 17) on a Top Rank card at Centre Videotron in Quebec City, Canada.

Ohan, Jr. meets Mason in an eight-round bout at a 137-pound catchweight on a Top Rank and Eye of the Tiger event headlined by Christian Mbilli vs. Sergiy Derevyanchenko. Ohan Jr. vs. Mason will be exclusively streamed live on ESPN+ starting at 8 p.m. ET.

“Mike is and has always been willing to step up when called upon to take the big fights on the big stage,” Ohan, Jr. ‘s promoter Chris Traietti (Granite Chin Promotions) said. “This fight with Mason further proves that. Mike is always in the gym so when we got the call to take this fight on three weeks’ notice, it was no issue. He is a real professional both in and out of the gym, and this Saturday the boxing world is going to witness an upset.” 

Fighting out of Holbrook, Massachusetts, the 30-year-old Ohan, Jr. is the son of a retired boxer, Mike “Bad Man” Ohan, Sr., who was a regular sparring partner for Hall of Famer Marvelous Marvin Hagler during the 1980s.

Ohan, Jr. last fought a year ago, winning an eight-round unanimous decision over Harry Gigliotti (9-4).

A slick southpaw with pop, the 20-year-old Mason was a celebrated amateur boxer from Cleveland. His promoter, Top Rank, has him on the fast track in the pro ranks as this is his fourth fight of 2024, the most recent a third-round technical knockout of 20-5-1 Luis Lebron this past July 6^th.

“I’m very seasoned and ready to show Top Rank what I’m all about,” Ohan, Jr. commented. “Don’t blink!”

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After Long Layoff Undefeated Lightweight Sean Mason is Ready to Get Back on Track

Story By Salvador Ramirez

ORLANDO, FL (August 13, 2024) – Boxlab Promotions’ undefeated lightweight prospect, Sean Mason (12-0, 9 KOs), who made a triumphant return to the ring after an 18-month layoff, is ready to get his career back on track by staying busy. In his last fight he scored a spectacular 4th round knockout victory over Thomas Guillemette (8-2, 4 KOs). The scheduled 6-round bout took place at the Caribe Royale Hotel in Orlando as part of MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects 7 card in late July 2024. Mason delivered a brutal left hook to the body, leaving Guillemette unable to continue.

“It felt great to shake off the rust and get back in the ring after being out for so long,” said Mason, who was born and raised in Orlando, FL, which is home base for Boxlab Promotions. “The layoff was tough, but I stayed in shape and focused. Now, I’m ready to stay active, climb the rankings, and show everyone that I’m still here.”

“Sean Mason is a special fighter with power in both hands,” said Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions. “His ability to end fights with a single punch is what makes him a rising star in the lightweight division. We plan to keep him busy for the rest of the year and continue his journey to the top.”

Mason, who has a strong fan base in his hometown of Orlando, is eager to stay active and take on new challenges. “I’ve been working hard even during the layoff, and I’m ready to fight anyone. It’s always a great feeling to perform in front of my home crowd in Orlando, and I can’t wait to be back in the ring soon.”

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Terrence Crawford Captures the WBA Junior Middleweight Title from Israil Madrimov 

After he beats Madrimov he plans to fight Canelo AlvarezStory By Alex and John  Rinaldi

Just like he has done in all his preceding fights – Terence Craford has once again come out victorious – this time for his 4^th Division World Championship and the WBA World Super Welterweight Championship belt that going into the bout was wrapped firmly around its champion Israil Madrimov.

Before a packed crowd at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, the crowd surprisingly witnessed a pretty close, exciting fight.

Madrimov, 154, entered the ring first wearing white trunks and white gloves, while Crawford entered in the ring wearing blue trunks with gold trim and green gloves with blue and gold trimming.

Like all the fighters who faced Crawford beforehand, they all felt they had that one super ingredient, that magic bullet, that pixie dust, or that yellow brick road to lead them to victory. Madrimov (10-1-1, 7 KO’s) was certainly one of them.

“I feel great,” declared Madrimov before the fight. “I’ve waited for this moment for a long time. My dream is coming true. Saturday night I’ll show every boxing fan a great fight. I’m only thinking about the victory, and I will show everything that I have inside the ring.”

Unfortunately, like all the previous 40 dreamers who fought Crawford before him, Madrimov’s dream was quickly shattered and crushed, as he emerged, like his predecessors on the losing side of that fine line.

As Crawford’s punches have shown, thinking about victory against him is like stopping a lion with a fly swatter.

Prior to this bout, Crawford, 36, had won the following championships:

WBO World Lightweight Champion

WBO World Super Lightweight Champion

WBC World Super Lightweight Champion

WBA World Super Lightweight Champion

IBF World Super Lightweight Champion

WBO World Welterweight Champion

WBC World Welterweight Champion

WBA World Welterweight Champion

IBF World Welterweight Champion

Terence Crawford (41-0, 31 KO’s) will earn a guaranteed purse of $1.2m for the upcoming fight. The earnings Crawford increased to $3.5m based on pay-per-view sales if the ppv buys figure crossed more than 500k sales on fight.

To his credit, Madrimov was a sturdy foe and put up a pretty fight of it. The problem was that over the course of 12 rounds Crawford threw almost twice as many punches as Madrimov. The other problem was that he seemed to never hurt the great Craford.

While some rounds were pretty close such as the third, fourth, fifth, tenth, and twelfth rounds, Crawford was the one who, by far, landed the harder blows.

In round three, for example, Craford countered a solid right from Madrimov with an explosive left uppercut to the WBA Super Middleweight Champion’s jaw that nearly sent his head flying back to his native Uzbekistan.

The biggest round for Craford was in round 11 when the Nebraska fighter landed another jarring left uppercut that staggered the champion and put him squarely on some sort of battered land in Eastern Europe.

By the fight’s end some thought it was close – such as Madrimov’s corner, countrymen, and family, to the rest of the world and the crowd in attendance Crawford won a unanimous decision on scorecards of 116-112, 115-113 and 115-113, meaning if Crawford hadn’t taken the 12th round, the fight would have ended as a majority draw.

Crawford landed 95 of 433 punches to 84 of 273 for Madrimov, according to CompuBox, showcasing how close the bout was overall. Madrimov was also able to snap an 11-fight knockout streak for Crawford.

“Israil was a tough competitor,” Crawford said after the fight. “I knew he was going to be tough like I said. He’s real strong, he’s durable, he took a lot of good shots. Like everybody knew coming into the fight, he had fast feet and good rhythm upstairs and was strong. He was waiting to counter me just like I was waiting to counter him. He fought a good fight.”

Madrimov said he felt he had done enough to win and asked for a rematch. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, was more upset than Madrimov after the fight, claiming the scoring felt like the scorecards were “filled out in advance.”

Crawford had been angling to continue moving up in weight, hoping to secure a shot plus all the huge monies that go with hit against the Unified Super Middleweight Champion, Saul “Canelo” Alvarez.

“You know what I say, if the money’s right, we’ve got to fight,” Crawford said. “At the same time, he has a fight he’s focused on. … [Getting the fight is] not so important to me. It’s just another milestone to greatness, I suppose. And financially wise.”

Fight card, results

• Terence Crawford def. Israil Madrimov (c) via unanimous decision (116-112, 115-113, 115-113)
• Jose Valenzuela def. Isaac Cruz (c)via split decision (116-112, 113-115, 116-112)
• Andy Ruiz vs. Jarrell Miller ends in a majority draw (112-116, 114-114, 114-114)

• 

  Ruiz (L) and Miller (R) end their bout in a draw.

• Martin Bakole def. Jared Andersonvia fifth-round TKO
• David Morrell def. Radivoje Kalajdzic via unanimous decision (118-110, 117-111, 117-111)
• Andy Cruz def. Antonio Moran via seventh-round knockout

Pictures By Mark Robinson Matchroom Boxing

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Dainier Pero Believes he can be the Next Great Heavyweight After Seeing Competition on Riyadh Season Card 

Story By Leonard Carmichael

ORLANDO, FL (August 6, 2024) – After seeing this past weekend’s heavyweight fights that included Andy Ruiz Jr., Jarrell Miller, Jared Anderson and Martin Bakole, undefeated heavyweight star on the rise, Dainier “The Fear” Pero (8-0, 6 KOs), believes he compete with any of the top heavyweights in the world.

In his last bout, a thrilling display of power, speed and skill, Pero delivered a stunning 5th round knockout against James Evans (7-2-1, 7 KOs) at the Caribe Royale Hotel in Orlando. The fight, part of MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects 7 card, showcased Pero’s undeniable talent and solidified his status as a rising star in the heavyweight division.

Pero, known for his explosive power and exceptional footwork, dominated the bout from the opening bell, culminating in a spectacular knockout that left fans and critics praising his talent. Following his impressive victory and seeing his competition over the weekend, Pero expressed his confidence in his ability to compete with the top heavyweights in the world.

“After watching this past weekend’s fights, I truly believe my speed and footwork give me an edge against any heavyweight out there,” said Pero, who is promoted by Boxlab Promotions. “I showed a lot in my last fight. I’m ready to take on anyone and prove that I belong among the best in the division.”

Pero’s trainer, the well-respected Bob Santos, confirmed his fighter’s thoughts, praising Pero’s dedication and talent. “I’ve trained many fighters, but Dainier Pero is something special. His combination of speed, power, and footwork is amazing. I firmly believe we have the next great heavyweight star in boxing. He’s a bigger version of Oleksandr Usyk.”

“Dainier Pero has all the tools to become a dominant force in the heavyweight division,” said Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions and Pero’s promoter. “His performance against Evans was just the beginning. The sky is the limit for him, and we are committed to guiding him to the top.”

“My latest victory was a statement, but it’s only the beginning,” said Pero as he continues to climb the heavyweight rankings. “I’m ready to step up and take on bigger challenges. I want to prove myself against the best and continue my journey to the top of the heavyweight division.”

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BOXING STARS CALEB PLANT & ROLANDO “ROLLY” ROMERO HIGHLIGHT CANELO VS. BERLANGA PAY-PER-VIEW UNDERCARD IN SEPARATE ATTRACTIONS

Former World Champion Caleb Plant Takes on Unbeaten Trevor McCumby For Interim WBA Super Middleweight Title & Former 140-Pound World Champion Rolando Romero Takes on Hard-Hitting Manuel Jaimes Opening Action at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

Canelo Promotions Presents Pound-For-Pound Great & Mexican Superstar Canelo Álvarez Battling Undefeated Puerto Rican

Knockout Artist Edgar Berlanga Saturday, September 14 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas Topping PBC Pay-Per-View

Event Available on Prime Video

Story By Salvador Ramirez

LAS VEGAS – August 6, 2024 – A pair of exciting showdowns featuring the return of boxing stars Caleb Plant and Rolando “Rolly” Romero in separate attractions will highlight undercard action on Saturday, September 14 as Canelo Promotions presents pound-for-pound great and Mexican superstar Canelo Álvarez putting his unified WBC, WBA and WBO Super Middleweight World Titles on the line against undefeated WBA No. 1-Ranked Mandatory Contender Edgar Berlanga Vegas headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Former super middleweight world champion Caleb Plant will take on undefeated contender Trevor McCumby for the Interim WBA Super Middleweight Title, while the former 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero steps into the ring against the hard-hitting Manuel Jaimes in a 10-round bout opening the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The pay-per-view lineup also includes the star-studded co-main event featuring Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara taking on hard-hitting two-division world champion and Puerto Rican star Danny “Swift” García in a 12-round showdown

The additions of Plant and Romero provide the loaded pay-per-view lineup with two of boxing’s premier trash talkers, highlighting the high-stakes nature of the event that now features five current or former world champions competing across the four bouts.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to purchase the PPV via DAZN.com. Additionally, fans can purchase the PPV at PPV.com. On top of those options, fans will continue to be able to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now through AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, in association with Matchroom Boxing.

“Saturday, September 14 is a stacked card with a litany of the best fighters in the sport and it’s become even more jam-packed with action by adding in the hungry former world champions Caleb Plant and ‘Rolly’ Romero in separate high-stakes battles,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Plant is must-see every time he steps into the ring and will look to re-establish his dominance at 168-pounds against the rising undefeated contender Trevor McCumby, while Romero hopes to use his power-punching style to turn away Manuel Jaimes and put himself on track for another world title.”

**CALEB PLANT VS. TREVOR MCCUMBY**

Former IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb Plant steps back into the ring for the first time since his memorable battle against David Benavidez, as he takes on surging unbeaten Trevor McCumby, with the winner set to walk away with the currently vacant Interim WBA Super Middleweight Title.

Plant (22-2, 13 KOs) has used his sublime boxing skills to rise to the rank of world champion and showed improved power since joining forces with renowned trainer Stephen Edwards for his last two bouts. Prior to dropping a 12-round decision against Benavidez in March 2023, Plant ended an extended war of words with Anthony Dirrell via a single punch in October 2022, knocking out the former two-time champion to deliver one of 2022’s most memorable KO’s. The 32-year-old Plant, who was born in Nashville, TN and now lives in Las Vegas, won the IBF title in a hard-fought unanimous decision victory over Jose Uzcategui in 2019. Plant dropped Uzcategui in the second and fourth rounds and cruised to victory for the championship. He made three successful title defenses, defeating Mike Lee and Vincent Feigenbutz by TKO in addition to a unanimous decision victory over former champion Caleb Truax. He lost the title in an undisputed championship match against Canelo Alvarez in November 2021.

“It feels good to be back. I’ve had some time away from the ring but I’ve used it wisely,” said Plant. “I’ve been in the gym since last June. I’ve sparred over 220 rounds in the past year and leading up to this fight, so I’m feeling sharper than ever. I’ve been smoothing the edges of my game and this is the best I’ve ever looked and the most complete my game has been and I think that speaks volumes to what I have left in me to prove. I guarantee that on September 14 you guys will see the best Caleb Plant yet. All I can say is, he’s going to get his ass whooped.”

Originally from Illinois and now fighting out of Glendale, Arizona, McCumby (28-0, 21 KOs) has surged up the rankings since returning rejuvenated in 2023 from a layoff away from the sport. The 31-year-old first turned pro in 2010 off a sensational amateur career that saw him amass a 138-11 record with numerous national titles to his name. After campaigning at light heavyweight for the first section of his career, McCumby returned in May 2023 as a super middleweight and scored knockouts of Vicente Martin Rodriguez and Rodolfo Ezequiel Martinez in back-to-back contests. Most recently, McCumby picked apart talented longtime contender Christopher Pearson in their January 2024 bout, earning a wide unanimous decision.

“Sports mirrors life and I see Caleb Plant as the symbol for those who are keeping so many down, and now it’s my job to fight back,” said McCumby. “No matter what resources you have to use against me, I won’t be kept down. I’m inspired by everyone who fights back, and that’s the mentality I’m bringing into this matchup on September 14.”

**ROLANDO ROMERO VS. MANUEL JAIMES**

The former WBA Super Lightweight World Champion, Rolando “Rolly” Romero steps back into action after losing his world title to Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz in March, as he faces the streaking-contender Manuel Jaimes in a 10-round super lightweight clash that kicks off the pay-per-view.

Romero (15-2, 13 KOs) is known for his brash talk that he backs up with power in both hands as well as an exciting, unique style that makes him a must-see whenever he steps between the ropes. The 29-year-old rose to the ranks of world champion in May 2023 stopping Ismael Barroso in round nine to win the title, before relinquishing it in March against Isaac Cruz. The Barroso fight was Romero’s first return to the ring since a May 2022 defeat against three-division champion Gervonta Davis. Prior to the Davis fight, the Las Vegas resident Romero won an interim title in August 2020 by earning a close but unanimous decision over then unbeaten Jackson Marinez.

“Happy Easter everybody,’’ said Romero.

The 24-year-old Jaimes (16-1-1, 11 KOs) enters this fight on a four-bout winning streak, including unanimous decisions over former world champion Jonathan Romero in July. His current streak has seen him bounce back from a narrow defeat to Pedro Bernal Rodriguez in April 2022, which came after a career best triumph in December 2021 as he stopped Moises Flores in round two. Originally from San Jose, Jaimes now fights out of the fighting hotbed of Stockton, California and has fought professionally since 2018.

“I’m very excited to be part of this great event on Mexican Independence Weekend. It’s an honor to represent my parents’ homeland of Michoacan, Mexico as well as my fans in the 209 Stockton,’’ said Jaimes. “’Rolly’ will be the third former world champion I have faced, so I feel I’m ready for this stage. I have already worn the WBC Youth World Championship belt around my waist. This fight will get me closer to my goal of being a world champion.”

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Former Heavyweight champion Mike Tyson declares that former President Donald Trump Is Treated The Same Way As Black People ‘In The Press’ And ‘In Court’

Story By Leonard Carmichael

Former Heavyweight Champion and sport’s icon Mike Tyson is a longtime friend of former president Donald Trump and at one point, Tyson and Trump had such a close relationship that the heavyweight world champion was briefly employed him as a ‘business advisor’. 

More importantly, Trump’s Casino Hotel – Trump Plaza in Atlantic City – was one of the best venues ever to hold a boxing match and they put on some of the biggest boxing events in the 1980’s and 1990’s such as Miket Tyson’s legendary fight against Michael Spinks on June 27, 1988, where Tyson KO’d Spinks in the very first round, among many others.

Due to their mutual friendship, Tyson believes that the former president, who once wrote the national best seller Art of the Deal, appears to be getting nothing but a Raw Deal from both the Press and the Justice System in America.

Tyson has also reportedly defended former president Trump by suggesting that the legal system treats him similarly to how the system treats Black people in America.

Because of this, many African Americans and Black sports icons “see strength” in Trump due to the relatable circumstances they share — which Trump himself has also pointed out. 

“No, it won’t be part of my message,” Trump said, who once compared himself to Nelson Mandela, boasted that “the Black population” loved seeing his mugshot in Fulton County, and is regularly accused of reinforcing negative stereotypes by Democrats for personal gain. 

“I think it’s through osmosis. They [Black people] see what’s happening. And a lot of them feel that similar things have happened to them. I mean, they’ve expressed that to me very plainly and very clearly. They see what’s happened to them,” Trump explained. 

One of the reasons Tyson is standing by Trump is that the former president believed Tyson was unfairly prosecuted and convicted in Indiana for the alleged rape in the 1990’s.

Trump was also at his side when he was put behind bars for the “rape” charges, which Tyson has continuously denied, alleging that the sexual relations were consensual.

The 44th president also went on record calling the conviction “a travesty” in a 1992 radio interview.

“If I never saw Donald Trump and didn’t know he was white, I would think that he was black,” Tyson said during a recent interview. “The way they were treating him in the papers and in the press. Think about that, the way they treat him in court? That’s the way they did Black people.”

Note: for the record, the only sports publication and media outlet that stood by Mike Tyson during his legal travesty was The USA Boxing News and its Editors John and Alex Rinaldi who appeared on many sports radio shows during that time such as New York’s famed FAN. While callers and hosts went after “The Boxing Twins” they never relented and stood by Tyson to the very end.

__________

Introducing the Team USA Boxing Squad for the 2024 Paris Olympics and the Coverage of the Events

The 2024 Olympics in Paris are here, and boxing should be one of the most watched sports, and Team USA are confident that will leave Paris with a medal around their neck. The only thing is NBCUniversal who will be airing the Olympics will most likely force-feed the viewing audience with non-stop swimming events, which are nothing but bore-fests.

Considering, for the most part, no one besides these kid’s parents and relatives ever watch a High School of College swim event – there is no reason whatsoever why they spend so much airtime on them.

What they should be airing is more Boxing and Wrestling – not these sports were no contact is involved. People have become soft enough – why make them even softer by airing these non-physical time sports.

Then there is LeBron James playing on the Olympic Basketball Team for the fourth time and making him one of the Team USA’s Captains. How ridiculous is that!!

It is not enough for this Glory King to make billions of dollars in professional basketball as well as previously appear at three prior Olympic Games – now he has nerve to deprive some college kid or another qualified – less famous – basketball player from getting on the squad. 

Besides James, part of the same star-studded squad also features former MVPs Kevin Durant, Steph Curry and Joel Embiid on the team!

How this is permitted is simply insane and so terribly unfair.

The Olympics are for the most part a joke when these professionals play from any Country. 

Though almost every year the Olympic committee attempts to remove either boxing or wrestling, the original Olympic sports from the Games, they continue to be complicit in these shenanigans with these professional athletes.

One of the only true amateurs left are the Olympic Boxing and Wrestling Teams.

Good luck to all of them.

UPDATE – August 6

Omari Jones’ Olympic Journey Concludes with Bronze Medal

PARIS (August 6, 2024) – Omari Jones concluded his impressive Paris 2024 Olympic Games journey with a bronze medal in the 71 kg weight class. His path at the Olympics ended Tuesday afternoon in a closely contested bout against Uzbekistan’s Asadkhuja Muydinkhujaev, the reigning 71 kg World Champion, that ended in a 3-2 split decision in favor of Muydinkhujaev. 

 

Heading into the third round, Jones was behind 3-1 on the judge’s scores, but that did not deter the Orlando, Fla., native, who won the third round 4-1. Despite his strong finish, Jones needed a knockout or a 10-8 score from one of the judges to sway the decision in his favor. Although he mounted a strong comeback, he was unable to turn the tables and ultimately fell 3-2 in the bout.   

 

Team USA was represented by eight boxers at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and secured one medal, a bronze, by Omari Jones.  Team USA now shifts its focus to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. 

USA Boxing is coached by Head Coach Billy Walsh (Colorado Springs, Colo.), along with National Resident Coach Timothy Nolan (Rochester, N.Y.), as well as National Development Coach Chad Wigle (Colorado Springs, Colo.), along with assistant coaches Adonis Frazier (Minneapolis, Minn.) and Christine Lopez (Rowlett, Texas).  

Fans can stay updated on all the Olympic boxing action, including daily schedules, recaps, results and live stream information by clicking here! All broadcasts will be available on NBC and Peacock. 

Click here to read USA Boxing’s complete media guide. 

August 6 – Result:

71 kg: Asadkhuja Muydinkhujaev/UZB dec. over Omari Jones, Orlando, Fla./USA, 3-2.

UPDATE – August 2

Alyssa Mendoza fell short in the round of 16 with a 4-1 loss to Brazil’s Jucielen Cerqueira Romeu Friday at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Mendoza kept the fight close as each featherweight boxer took one of the opening two rounds by a score of 3-2 to enter the final round tied up. Cerqueira Romeu ultimately won the final round 5-0 to earn the 4-1 split-decision victory over Mendoza. 

Team USA will be represented by two American boxers in a pair of quarterfinal matchups on Saturday, Aug. 3. With wins on Saturday, Omari Jones (Orlando, Fla.) and Jahmal Harvey (Oxon Hill, Md.) would advance to the semifinals of their respective weight classes, Jones (71 kg) and Harvey (57 kg), and secure positions in the medal rounds.

Jones will open Saturday’s action for the Stars and Stripes against Bulgaria’s Rami Mofid Kiwan, beginning at 10:02 a.m. ET. Both boxers qualified at the first Olympic Qualification Tournament in March. Mofid Kiwan was the 2024 European Boxing Championships gold medalist. Additionally, he won each of his opening two bouts against Poland and Australia at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games via unanimous decisions. As for Jones, he dominated his first bout of the Olympics on Wednesday, July 31, to earn a unanimous decision over Chinese Taipei. 

Harvey, a 2021 World Champion, will get underway Saturday at 2 p.m. ET against Kyrgyzstan’s Munarbek Seiitbek Uulu. The two boxers have each competed once during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Seiitbek Uulu defeated Cuba on a 3-2 split decision, while Harvey defeated Brazil on a 3-2 split decision. Harvey won gold at the 2023 Pan American Games, where he punched his ticket to the Olympic Games. 

UPDATE – JULY 31

Team USA Boxing Teammates Omari Jones & Jahmal Harvey

Advance to Olympic quarterfinals

PARIS (July 31, 2024) – Team USA was undefeated on Wednesday (July 31) as Omari Jones (71 kg) and Jahmal Harvey (57 kg) moved on to the quarterfinals of their respective brackets.

Omari Jones (Orlando, Fla.) kicked things off for the Stars and Stripes early this morning against Kan Chia Wei out of Taiwan. The American boxer dominated this bout in all aspects and the judges agreed by awarding Jones a 5-0 unanimous decision, including a 10-8 score in the second round. 

“I started off right and took control early,” Omari Jones stated after his round of 16 victory. “I don’t worry too much about what the other boxer is doing, I just look at what I can do in the ring, and it showed tonight.” 

Jones will now go head-to-head against Bulgaria’s Rami Mofid Kiwan in the quarterfinals of the men’s 71 kg bracket. Mofid Kiwan won via unanimous decision in each of his bouts against Poland and Australia. Jones and Mofid Kiwan will square off on Saturday, August 3, at 10:02 a.m. ET.

Following Jones was his Team USA teammate in the 57 kg weight class, Jahmal Harvey (Oxon Hill, Md.). Harvey went up against a familiar opponent, Brazil’s Luiz Gabriel Oliveira. The two featherweights traded shots throughout the bout, keeping it close along the way.

Harvey fell behind in the first two rounds 3-2 and was down the scorecard 2-1 heading into the final three minutes. The Oxon Hill, Maryland, native needed a dominant final round to secure a victory and he did just that.

“Every fight is a final and I am going to leave it out there every round.” Harvey talked about his mentality entering the final round. “I knew I was down and knew I had to dominate the last round and win on some 10-8’s.”

Harvey came out of his corner with stylistic aggression and was swinging while looking to keep his dream of a gold medal alive. Harvey cemented a gritty comeback victory after securing the third round 4-1, stamping a 3-2 victory in his opener.

“This was the sixth time I fought him, and I am up 4-2,” Harvey stated on his history with the Brazilian boxer after his round of 16 victory. “Gold is the goal. First fight, worst fight and I am going to get better as the tournament goes on.”

Looking ahead to Thursday, Aug. 1, Team USA will see Morelle McCane (Cleveland, Ohio) and Jennifer Lozano (Laredo, Texas), who will each make their Paris 2024 Olympic debuts. McCane and Lozano have both etched their names in the Olympic history books, as McCane is the fifth straight boxer out of Cleveland to compete in the Olympics and the first female boxer from Cleveland. Lozano is the first Olympic athlete from her hometown, Laredo, Texas.

Lozano will go against Finland’s Pihla Kaivo-Oja out at 10:02 a.m. ET and McCane will follow at 10:50 a.m. ET against Uzbekistan’s Navbakhor Khamidova. 

Fans can stay updated on all the action, including daily schedules, recaps, results and live stream information by clicking here! All broadcasts will be available on NBC and Peacock.

Click here to read the full media guide.

Team USA is coached by USA Boxing Head Coach Billy Walsh (Colorado Springs, Colo.), along with National Resident Coach Timothy Nolan (Rochester, N.Y.), as well as National Development Coach Chad Wigle (Colorado Springs, Colo.), along with assistant coaches Adonis Frazier (Minneapolis, Minn.) and Christine Lopez (Rowlett, Texas). 

July 31 Results

71 kg: Omari Jones, Orlando, Fla./USA dec. over Kan Chai Wei/ TPE-5:48 a.m. ET, 5-0 

57 kg: Jahmal Harvey, Oxon Hill, Md./USA dec. over Luiz Gabriel Oliveria/ BRA- 10:02 a.m. ET, 3-2 

August 1 Schedule

50 kg: Jennifer Lozano, Laredo, Texas/USA vs. Pihla Kaivo-Oja/ FIN – 10:02 a.m. ET 

66 kg: Morelle McCane, Cleveland, Ohio/USA vs. Navbakhor Khamidova/UZB – 10:50 a.m. ET

2024 Paris Olympics Lineup

Men’s Boxing Team

Roscoe Hill – Flyweight

Roscoe Hill is an exceptional talent competing in the men’s flyweight division at the Paris Olympics. He has won a gold medal at the 2022 AMBC Elite Championships and a silver at the 2021 Elite World Championships. He is extremely evasive and punches from an impressive variety of angles, making him a nightmare to face. At 29 years old, Hill will be the oldest boxer on Team USA.

Jahmal Harvey – Featherweight

Jahmal Harvey, the featherweight fighting out of Maryland, will aim to make a splash at this summer’s games. He won gold at the 2023 Pan American Games, which qualified him for the 2024 games. He will be one of the main medal hopes for Team USA.

Harvey throws a high volume of punches, but he is thoughtful with his shots, not wasting many. His accuracy ensures he is extremely difficult to beat in the amateur code.

Omari Jones – Welterweight

Omari Jones will be competing in the welterweight division at the 2024 Paris Olympics. He made a name for himself at his first-ever international tournament, winning a silver medal at the 2021 Elite World Championship.

Jones earned his place when boxing in the first Olympic Qualification Tournament in Busto Arsizio, placing among the top four in the 71 kg weight division. He performs very well in competitions and has shown he has what it takes to navigate the rounds.

Joshua Edwards – Super Heavyweight

24-year-old Joshua Edwards, fighting out of Houston will be competing in the super heavyweight division in Paris. He has enjoyed a successful amateur career, including winning gold at the 2021 USA Boxing Elite National Championships.

Edwards is not your traditional-looking super heavyweight at six feet three inches tall and weighing around 220 pounds. His speed when attacking and evading attacks makes him stand out from many competitors. He’s defensively astute and looks set to have a memorable 2024 games.

Women’s Boxing Team

Jennifer Lozano – Flyweight

Jennifer Lozano will be competing in the women’s flyweight division in Paris. She has won a plethora of amateur honors, including two National Golden Gloves and two USA Boxing Elite National Championships.

Lozano is an aggressive fighter who starts fast and takes it to her opponents, meaning she often builds up early leads in her amateur bouts. She has the quality and the desire to make a name for herself in Paris.

Alyssa Mendoza – Featherweight

20-year-old Alyssa Mendoza, fighting out of Idaho, made the Team USA squad for the Paris Olympics by winning each of her fights at the final world qualification tournament in May. Mendoza qualifying for the 2024 games is a brilliant story after she went 5-8 in 2018.

Mendoza comes forward in her fights and takes it to her opposition – and this will be no different in Paris. The Idaho native has shown her toughness – which she will need to make a splash in the summer games.

Jajaira Gonzalez – Lightweight

The 27-year-old lightweight Jajaira Gonzalez won several youth tournaments in boxing before taking a break in 2018 to concentrate on her mental health before COVID-19 struck and Gonzalez got a regular job.

She found her way back into boxing and collected a bronze medal at the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games, which punched her ticket to Paris. Gonzalez is by her admission a more well-rounded fighter who now realises the importance of defence and offence. If Gonzalez can fight her way to a medal in Paris, it would surely be one of the most memorable Olympic stories.

Morelle McCane – Welterweight

Morelle McCane secured her place in the welterweight division after securing a silver medal at the 2023 Pan American Games. McCane is also the first female boxer from Cleveland, Ohio, to qualify for an Olympic Games.

She has had a successful amateur career, amassing a record of 50-5. She picks her punches well and can throw in high volume with impressive accuracy. Can the 4 x National Golden Gloves champion win the biggest prize in amateur boxing?

UPDATES

Alyssa Mendoza’s grit shines and helps her advance in Paris, 

Roscoe Hill upended via 3-2 decision in Round of 16

In a sport of grit and grind, Mendoza had to dig deep and steal Tuesday’s win away from Tajikistan’s Mijgona Samadova. Mendoza took the first round 3-2 and looked strong after landing multiple jabs throughout the opening three minutes. Despite dropping the second round 4-1, she bounced back in the third to seal the victory in her Olympic debut. “The second round I got caught the most,” Mendoza stated on her adjustments heading into the final round.

“The third round I started moving to my right more when she was orthodox, and I felt like I landed cleaner punches in the third round.” 

Down 2-1 after the opening two rounds, Mendoza needed to win judges 2, 3 and 4 to secure her comeback victory. Mendoza did just that and took all five scorecards to win the bout via a 3-2 split decision. 

“It was a good first fight and it was tougher than I expected,” Mendoza stated after the win over Tajikistan. “It was a good test and good first fight and I look forward to the next one.” 

Following the win, Mendoza advances to the round of 16, where she will face Brazil’s Jucielen Cerqeuira Romeu on Friday, Aug. 2, at 10:18 a.m. ET. 

Roscoe Hill opened Tuesday’s action for Team USA against France’s Billal Bennama. Bennama came out strong and took the first round 5-0 behind the raucous roars from the home crowd. Hill found his footing in the second round and notched a 4-1 score before claiming a 3-2 advantage in the third round. However, he was not awarded the win and ultimately fell by a difficult 3-2 split decision. 

Fans can stay updated on all the action, including daily schedules, recaps, results and live stream information by clicking here! All broadcasts will be available on NBC and Peacock.

Click here to read the full media guide. 

Team USA is coached by USA Boxing Head Coach Billy Walsh (Colorado Springs, Colo.), along with National Resident Coach Timothy Nolan (Rochester, N.Y.), as well as National Development Coach Chad Wigle (Colorado Springs, Colo.), along with assistant coaches Adonis Frazier (Minneapolis, Minn.) and Christine Lopez (Rowlett, Texas). 

Tuesday, July 30 Results

51 kg: Billal Bennama/FRA dec. over Roscoe Hill, Spring, Texas/USA, 3-2

57 kg: Alyssa Mendoza, Caldwell, Idaho/USA dec. over Mijgona Samadova/TJK, 3-2 

Wednesday, July 31 Schedule

71 kg: Omari Jones, Orlando, Fla./USA vs. Kan Chia Wei/TPE – 5:48 a.m. ET 

57 kg: Jahmal Harvey, Oxon Hill, Md./USA vs. Luiz Gabriel Oliveira/BRA – 10:02 a.m. ET 

Thursday, Aug. 1 Schedule

50 kg: Jennifer Lozano, Laredo, Texas/USA vs. Pihla Kaivo-Oja/ FIN – 10:02 a.m. ET 

66 kg: Morelle McCane, Cleveland, Ohio/USA vs. Navbakhor Khamidova/UZB – 10:50 a.m. ET

Friday, Aug. 2 Schedule 

57 kg: Alyssa Mendoza, Caldwell, Idaho/USA vs. Jucielen Cerqueira Romeu/BRA – 10:18 a.m. ET

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Super Middleweight Champion Canelo Alvarez may be fighting challenger Edgar Berlanga

Story By Salvador Ramirez

According to reports, boxing great and Super Middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez is working on a deal to defend his titles by fighting challenger Edgar Berlanga on Sept. 14 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Alvarez (61-2-2, 39 KO’s) who hails from Mexico, is the undisputed champion at 168 pounds, though the IBF title may not be on the line as his mandatory defense is overdue.

Berlanga, 27, whose ring record is 22-0 (17 KO’s), hails from Brooklyn, New York, and stands a compelling 6 feet one inches. His last fight was on February 24 of this year, when he stopped Padraig McCrory at the Caribe Royal Orlando in Orlando, Florida. He also holds the NABO super middleweight title.

Canelo-Berlanga will go head-to-head with UFC 306 — the first sporting event to be held at The Sphere, a revolutionary venue that opened in Las Vegas last September.

Mexican Independence Day Weekend has long been one of two holidays reserved for boxing’s top star (along with Cinco De Mayo Weekend), a tradition that was held by Floyd Mayweather and Oscar De La Hoya before him.

PBC will lead the event on Prime Video PPV with Matchroom Boxing involved as Berlanga’s promoter, sources said. The PPV will also be available on DAZN, Matchroom’s streaming partner

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Former Heavyweight Champion Any Ruiz Jr. will return to the ring against Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller on August 3rd at Los Angeles’ BMO Stadium

Story By Joseph  Rinaldi

August 1,  2024, Los Angeles, CA. Former Heavyweight Champion Andy Ruiz Jr. will return to the ring against Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller on August 3rd at Los Angeles’ BMO Stadium.

Ruiz, 34, has had as much activity as a groundhog who refuses to emerge and show his shadow.

According to published reports, his Excellency Turki Alalshikh has selected former heavyweight champion Ruiz (35-2, 22 KO’s) to compete on his outstanding bill in one of the best events the U.S. has seen in a long time.

Ruiz fought four times in the last five years with his last fight being a decision victory against Luis Ortiz on September 4, 2022.

Prior to that Ruiz was last seen beating Chris Arreola (UD12) on May 1, 2021, losing to Anthony Joshua by decision on December 7, 2019, and defeating Joshua by TKO prior to that on June 1, 2019, when Ruiz captured the WBA, IBF, and WBO Heavyweight Titles at Madison Square Garden.

Almost two years after his last fight  Ruiz will be taking on 36-year-old Jarrell Miller a fighter who once showed big promise wining all but 4 of his 26 wins by KO.  

 If Ruiz is to survive this fight against Miller (26-1-1, 22 KO’s) and not lose for the third time, he has to really go out there and pound Miller into retirement in order to cash in on the big Saudi Arbia monies.

Miller, a 36-year-old New Yorker, is also desirous of fighting on Turki’s cards, and wants nothing more than to add a former heavyweight champion to his win’s ledger.

Miller is more in need of this victory than the wealthy Ruiz, who took home $10 million from his two fights against Anthony Joshua and more from his main event fights with Chris Arreola and Luis Ortiz during the previous three years.

Miller only fought two good fights – the first being Tomasz Adamek whom Miller KO’d on October 6, 2018, and Daniel Dubois, who beat Miller last December 23, 2023 when he was TKO’s by Dubois in the tenth round at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

“I’ve never predicted a knockout, but if the knockout comes, it comes. I’m just here to win and become victorious,” said Andy Ruiz Jr. in media reports.

In contrast to the 34-year-old inactive Andy Ruiz, Miller’s most recent opponent, 26-year-old Daniel Dubois, stopped him in the tenth round on December 23 of last year. However, Dubois is currently a young heavyweight with big punching power.

“We’re all warriors in there and risk our lives in there to feed our families and to make our dreams come true. Everybody wants to become a champion of the world. It’s just dedication, discipline, and just working hard,” added Ruiz Jr.

“The mission begins now, and I have to continue my legacy that I have going on. I made history on June 1st [in 2019] against Anthony Joshua. I made mistakes, and I learned. I’ve been in my ups and downs with so many rollercoasters in life,” continued Ruiz.

Andy Ruiz Jr. made a huge leap in earnings for his fight against Anthony Joshua. Before their first fight, Ruiz earned about $300,000. But after his unexpected win over Joshua, his earnings jumped to $7 million, including fight money and bonuses.

In June 2019, Miller was set to face Anthony Joshua at Madison Square Garden, but the matchmakers canceled the match at the last minute after Miller failed several drug tests. According to reports, he would have earned around $4.8 million for that fight. Although his current earnings remain undisclosed, both fighters can expect a substantial payouts for the upcoming event.

In truth, Ruiz Jr. has to score an impressive win over Miller in order to get himself back to the big-time heavyweight picture where he should be fighting one of the top British fighters such as Anthony Joshua or Tyson Fury, or undefeated and linear Undisputed Heavyweight Champion Oleksandr Usyk before they all retire.

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Story By Alexander R.  Rinaldi

WORCESTER, Mass. (August 2, 2024) – “Punch-out at Polar Park II,” presented by Shearns Boxing Promotions (SBP) in conjunction with Kendrick Ball’s Camp Get Right Boxing, will showcase a quartet of locally developed talent in a continuation of the city’s rich boxing history that dates back a century.

Worcester’s Harry Devine captured a bronze medal in the featherweight division at the 1928 Olympics in Amsterdam, where General Douglas McArthur cheered him on from ringside. And Canadian-born Lou Brouillard moved to his adopted home of Worcester, and he became its first world champion boxer. Brouillard (100-32-1, 57 KOs) fought professionally between 1928 and 1940, reigning as the world welterweight champion from 1931 to 1932, adding the New York State Athletic Commission “World” Championship to his resume in 1933. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame (IBHOF) in 1990.

Worcester’s second world champion is “El Gallo” Jose Antonio Rivera (43-6-1, 25 KOs), whose long pro career went from 1992 to 2019. He was born in Philadelphia and moved to Worcester from Springfield when he was only 16. Rivera was the World Boxing Association (WBA) Junior Middleweight and Welterweight World Champion, as well as the International Boxing Organization (IBO) World Welterweight titleholder.

Gifted Worcester boxers through the years have included heavyweight Bobby Harris (1993-99), who was a four-time national amateur champion, highlighted by the National Golden Gloves Championship, followed nine years later by Dominican Republic-native Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez (31-2, 20 KOs). Rodriguez was a world super middleweight contender who went the distance with Hall of Fame boxer Andre Ward in 2013.

And Worcester’s boxing tradition continues today, headlined by World Super Lightweight World title challenger Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz (17-2-1, 8 KOs), who is rated No. 9, No. 12 and No. 14 in the world, respectively, by the International Boxing Federation (IBF), World Boxing Organization (WBO) and World Boxing Council (WBC).

The future of Worcester boxing includes four boxers fighting on the “Punch-Out at Polar Park II” card, which will be streamed live from Worcester’s sensational Polar Park on www.bxngtv.com.

Three locally based boxers will be making their pro debuts: Millbury welterweight Justin Laporte, who fought last year on the amateur part of the card, vs. Tymar Miles (0-2), Worcester junior middleweight Jhon “D-Wave” Devers Rodriguez vs. Igor Santos (0-1) and Worcester welterweight “Grafton Hill’s Favorite Son” Daniel Docimo vs. Tracey Coppedge (0-3).

The 24-year-old Laporte, trained by another outstanding Worcester boxer, Sean Fitzgerald, is Worcester resident and licensed realtor who is a finance major student at Nichols College. The southpaw is a U.S. Marine fighting as a welterweight.

Devers Rodriguez, 23, is a native of the Dominican Republic and two-time New England Golden Gloves Champion as a novice. Like Laporte, he trains out of Camp Get Right Boxing in Worcester.

The most popular boxer to come out of Worcester in a long time is welterweight Dan Docimo, who is known as “Grafton Hill’s Favorite Son.” A locksmith for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for the last 17 years, Docimo is another southpaw who will celebrate his 36^th birthday the night of his pro debut.

The other Worcester fighter in action Aug. 9^th is four-time New England Golden Gloves Champion Keno Luna (2-0, 2 KOs), who meets Izaiah Vargas (1-10) in a four-round bout.  Luna has been active this summer as a member of the Boston Butchers team in The Combat League (TCL).

“A boxer making his or her pro debut is always exciting,” promoter Chuck Shearns said. “I’m happy these Worcester guys are able to do it in front of their family and friends at such a great event. The next generation of Worcester boxers starts now.”

The only returning “Punch-Out” fighter from last year’s pro card, promising Boca Raton (FL) prospect Josniel “TG” Castro (12-1, 8 KOs), is the headliner in the eight-round main event against Jerry Bradford (9-2, 5 KOs) for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) U.S. Junior Middleweight title. Worcester is Castro’s second home.

Two-time, two-division world champion Maureen “The Real Million Dollar Baby” Shea (30-2-1, 13 KOs), fighting out Delray Beach (FL) by way of The Bronx (NY), takes on Slovakia-native Beata Dudek (4-2, 4 KOs), who fights out of Hungary, in the eight-round co-featured event.

Undefeated, fan favorite heavyweight Kevin “Big Gulp” Nagle (8-0, 7 KOs), a U.S. Army veteran from Scituate  (MA), faces Mexican veteran Jose “Olympico” Humberto Corral (20-33, 12 KOs) in an eight-round match.

Also fighting on the undercard in four-round matches are Connecticut heavyweight Joe Powers (1-2, 1 KO) vs. pro-debuting Angolan Manuel Joao Balanga, and pro-debuting New York super middleweight Austin Cassese vs. Erick Matheus Alves (0-4).

Card subject to change.

Tickets are available for purchase at Polar Park’s box office (508.500.888) and online at www.polarpark.com/boxing,  priced at: $205.00 (Field Level VIP) – located around home plate on the field level, access to an exclusive field level bar); $125.00 (VIP DCU Club) – located on the third floor, access to an exclusive indoor area with a bar); $105.00 (VIP Ticket) – located in the first four rows of section 6-11 – seats are padded and wider than the average seat; $75.00 (Home Plate Reserved – rows 5-11 with a great view of the ring; $55.00 (Reserved) – located down the first and third base lines; $165.00 (Family Four Pack) – four reserved tickets (call 508.500.8888).

Sponsorship opportunities are available. Please email all inquiries for details to  [email protected].

Doors open at 5 p.m. ET, first bout at 6 p.m. ET.

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Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz to defend WBA Super Lightweight Title against Jose Valenzuela

(August 1 ) Having captured the  WBA super lightweight world champion last March, Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz (26-2-1, 18 KO’s) looks to record his first title defense when he clashes with a game Jose Valenzuela ((13-2, 9 KO’s) this weekend, live on DAZN.

With this being a pivotal world title matchup on the Terence Crawford-Israil Madrimov main card, stakes are ultra high.

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Granite Chin Promotions signs

2024 N.E. Golden Glove Champion “Showtime” Shea Willcox

 To make Pro debut on Sept. 13^th in Bridgewater, MA  

QUINCY, MA (July 24, 2024) – Granite Chin Promotions (GCP) has announced the signing of Everett (MA) junior welterweight “Showtime” Shea Willcox, a 2024 New England Golden Gloves Champion, to an exclusive promotional contract. He is scheduled to make his pro debut on September 13^th on a GCP show in Bridgewater, Massachusetts.

The 22-year-old Willcox, who was a member of two Everett High’s Super Bowl, Division One,  football championship teams,  was also selected as the “Most Outstanding Boxer” at this past February’s New England Golden Gloves Championships. He also was a 2018 Rocky Marciano Tournament Champion.

“I’ve got the experience and me and my team (his father/manager/assistant trainer Dennis Willcox and head trainer Joe Ricciardi) believe I’m ready to go pro,” Shea explained. “It’s time! I felt ready last year, but we wanted to fight in the Golden Gloves again. We met with (promoter) Chris (Traietti) and signed with him. I’ve heard nothing but good things about him. He fought and knows the game. And he’s a good guy.

“The pros are a little different from the amateurs – weight cutting and pace of fights – but in my favor. You can pick your shots, unlike the amateurs, and take your time setting up punches. There are only three rounds in the amateurs. “It’s always been my dream to turn pro and I’m looking forward to it.”

“Signing the best local talent is something Granite Chin has always strived to do and that is exactly what we are doing here by signing Shea,” promoter Chris Traietti said. “He has real national level experience that will help in his development in the pro game. He has a great team around him, which will make working with him exciting.”

Willcox trains at the City of Everett-owned Broadway Boxing “free” gym, located on the second floor of old Everett High School, which is operated by Ricciardi and Dennis Willcox. Two fighters who train at Broadway Boxing, James “Pitbull” Perkins and Kenny “Lionheart” Larson, are Shea’s new GCP stablemates. 2024 National Golden Gloves Super Heavyweight Champion, Congo-native Gilbert Kabamba and Junior Nationals qualifier Malik Johnson are also Broadway Boxing products.

“Shea beat the best 147-pounders, he’s strong and has been boxing for nine years,” Dennis noted. “The time is now for him to turn pro. We’ve done business with Chris with Kenny and Perk. Chris is a straight-up boxing promoter. We took the deal he offered and now it’s up to us. Shea will train hard, and we can sell tickets. We have a big family and lots of friends. They went to the Golden Gloves five weeks in a row. We like Chris. He fought and knows what it takes. Shea has had a pro style since he was young. He has plenty of time to improve in and out of the ring.”

“I’m a boxer-puncher,” Shea described his style. “I can be slick but sit down and punch, too. I can buckle down. I loved watching Micky Ward fight and I have a good left-hook to the liver. I want to go as far as I can in boxing, hoping for big fights. I’m going to stay in the gym and remain consistent.”

The future is now for “Showtime” Shea Willcox.

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The Florida Boxing Hall of Fame inducts a new class for 2024

Story by Mark Weisenmiller

Photos courtesy of The Florida Boxing Hall of Fame

St. Petersburg, Florida.  The Class of 2024 for the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame (FLBHOF) included eight fighters; two trainer/managers; one promoter; one for the FLBHOF Media Division; four participants, and four officials/commissioners. Additionally, two Special Achievement Awards were presented (to Ivan Echevarria and Carlos Albuerne); one Long Time Loyalty Award (to Bradley Ware), and the person receiving the Walter A. Flansburg Lifetime Award was Geri Atkinson-Hazelton.

Held at a Hilton Hotel in this city which averages 300 days of sunshine per year (this induction weekend was no exception as daytime temperatures occasionally topped 100 degrees F.), this year’s Induction Ceremony was the first ceremony to be completely sold out since the FLBHOF began in 2009, according to FLBHOF President Steven J. Canton.

The FLBHOF Induction Ceremony Weekend began on Friday evening, June 21^st and lasted until late Sunday afternoon of June 23, 2024. Unlike past years, where the Friday evenings were slated with 12 to 15 amateur bouts, this year was different. Instead of having a night of boxing matches, beginning at five p.m. on Friday was a “meet and greet” cocktail party.

For those people in attendance on Saturday who were not

looking at the fist casting exhibition or listening and watching the live interviews conducted by long-time boxing announcer Bob Alexander (most of the weekend’s activities were streamed online on the FLBHOF website and also YouTube), they could be found at long-time referees Brian Garry and Chris Young’s morning seminar. During the seminar, there was talk about boxing in the soon-to-be Paris, France Summer Olympics and Garry told the audience of 50 people that there are five judges for every Olympic boxing bout.

When Young began, he said, “The first thing that a referee has to do is to be prepared because I literally have a fighter’s life in my hands.” Changing subjects, he told the audience, “The bottom rope (of a boxing ring is always kept looser to avoid a falling boxer from whiplash.” There was discussion of point deduction if a boxer intentionally hits an opponent while he is down. Garry said that, whenever he referees a World Boxing Association (WBA) bout, that, according to that organization’s rules, he meets with the red and blue corner boxers and their accompanying entourage of trainers and cornermen. Both the red and blue “sides” trainers give Garry two sets of boxing gloves – one primary pair and one back-up pair – and Garry takes the four sets of boxing gloves to his hotel room. This is to prevent either side from tampering with said gloves.

The audience was rambunctious but in a good-hearted manner. Fighters’ safety and enforcing the rules are the two most important things that a referee must do during a match. “Another key point is knowing precisely when to stop a fight. That is really something that can not be taught in any class,” confessed Young. He also remarked, “For any would be referee or official out there (in the audience), don’t put anything on social media” and the audience laughed at this simple and truthful fact. The discussion, and the overall tone of the seminar, was so vigorous that it lasted thirty minutes longer than scheduled.

Noon to 2 p.m.:  The documentary film Worth The Fight was held in the same room which held Garry and Young’s seminar. The film is about Canton and eight different boxers who train at his gym in Florida. This had a smaller audience than the referee’s seminar because the film was shown at last year’s Induction Ceremony and, on another scale, innumerable groups of people stood in clusters outside the room and, as the British say, jaw-jawed. Slowly, as the talk subsided, these people came into the room; sat down, and watched the documentary film. Worth The Fight won top honors at the Milano, Italy Film Festival last November and will be shown at the 2024 Nagano, Japan Film Festival.

2:15 to 3.45 pm:  Again, this was held in the same seminar room after the showing of Worth The Fight. The moderators asked a panel of four boxing experts, one of which was Canton, a few questions. Audience members also asked the panel members questions. They talked about weigh-ins (day before the fight vs. morning of the bout); the average number of deaths of active people per year (for many years that figure was eight; now, depending on the source that figure is either 13 or 14) and why that number has increased; too many sparring rounds for boxers who are training for a match; nutrition for boxers (much talk about high-twitch fiber vs. low-twitch fiber in the human being musculature system); who was the fastest boxer that the panel members ever saw (unanimous consent for Sugar Ray Robinson) and beards (they used to be illegal). Today, in some boxing associations, beards are, to a certain length, legal.

The Saturday night Gala Dinner, which was sold out, started at 6 p.m. and, two hours later, there was the annual Ten Count by time-keeper Phyllis Garry (a past FLBHOF inductee and the wife of Brian Garry) for boxers and others in the boxing field who have died in the past year. Master of Ceremonies Alexander welcomed everybody to the dinner and then came the President’s Message from Canton (who is a member of the original FLBHOF Induction Class of 2009). The keynote address was given by boxing author Mark Silver. He talked about the long and rich history of boxing in Florida. Silver also praised Canton and his long life-time devotion to the sport.

The presentation of the Don Hazelton Scholarship Award was next. There were two recipients:  Max Curren and Dominic Vellucci. Each received a check for $1,000. Jose Diego was presented with the Walter A. “Butch” Flansburg Award; he received a $2,500 check. The Lifetime Flansburg Award was, as noted previously, given to Geri Atkinson-Hazelton.

Today:  after a hot buffet breakfast, one hour elapsed before the start of the Induction Ceremony at 11 am; said ceremony was held at the Hilton Lake Carillon Hotel Grand Ballroom. To the left and right of M.C. Alexander, who stood behind a podium to do his job, were two vertical banners with the FLBHOF logo on them. The induction ceremony was well attended – easily more than 700 people were in the room -possibly to escape the nearly 100 degree F. day. After the singing of the National Anthem, the American Legion Post 5 Honor Guard brought in the U.S. flag.

Then the ceremony commenced. Canton and his wife Beth handed to each inductee their respective plaques and rings as the inductees made their way to the stage. Each Inductee then gave his or her speech. Then the Class of 2024 posed for pictures with past inductees. “To the Inductees, remember this day; it should be like a stroll in the clouds,” said Alexander.

The induction ceremony began with the recognition of the two deceased inductees:  fighters Saoul Mamby and Arthur Williams. Mamby (45-34-6, 18 KO’s) held the World Boxing Commission (WBC) Super Lightweight Championship Belt for two- and one-half years. A tough and tenacious man, he fought well into his fifties (he began boxing at age 16) and, when he was 60, Mamby fought in an officially sanctioned match. The Pensacola, Florida-born Williams (47-17-1, 30 KO’s) held the International Boxing Federation (IBF) cruiserwegith title for one year. Phyllis Garry clanged the time-keeper bell a Ten-Count for Mamby and Williams.

Three inductees were unable to attend the ceremony:  fighter Stacy Prestage (7-5-3, 3 KO’s); Dr. Mark Gordon, and John Beninati.

Kathy Gentile was the first inductee to give a speech. Some of it was “My sister and I used to watch boxers train. We were trying to figure out why the boxers were making funny noises through their noses (i.e., heavily inhaling and exhaling).” She then talked about meeting a young Mike Tyson and ended her speech by saying, “Boxing is a challenge. It requires discipline. Always do the right thing, especially when no one is looking. It’s called integrity.”

The second inductee, and thus speaker, was Young. “I would be remiss if I didn’t thank (FLBHOF founders) Butch and Kathy Flansburg. As a young referee, I was very impatient to advance but Frank Gentile (Kathy’s husband) told me ‘Don’t worry. If you’re good, you’ll advance.’ If you want to be the best in your field, be in competition with yourself.”

Next was, from the Officials/Commission Division, Tim Shipman. He began by thanking his wife and children and immediately started to tear up. He also profusely thanked Frank and Kathy Gentile and, especially, Brian Garry. “I have friends. I have enemies. I have frenemies (laughter from the audience). That’s my job. With every job, I wanted to do the best I can without reward. This is a special reward.”

 

Then came the Participants Division; first of these went to Marc Hager. He spoke in a low, gravelly voice. He somewhat meandered when delivering his speech but he had a valid reason:  his boxing career was filled with a remarkable divergence of people. Next inductee Raul Alvarez told the audience “This is one of the most personal honors I have ever received. Thanks to my children for listening to my boxing stories over and over again.”

The ever-energetic Carl King followed Alvarez. King took to the stage waving two tiny U.S. flags just as his famous father, Don King, would often do. “Before I start, I want to say congratulations to all other inductees this year. There are so many people that I would like to thank but I wouldn’t because of time and (now laughing) memory. I got my love of boxing from my father who also got me my first pair of boxing gloves. He encouraged me to stay the course when things got down.” After his speech, he did a funny and very accurate imitation of his father shouting “Only In America!” while waving the two tiny U.S. flags.

 The Media Division inductee was Cuban-born Jorge Ebro. “My first memory of boxing,” he began, “came from Havana in 1964. My next big memory was in 1977 when it appeared that Muhammad Ali would fight (the Cuban multiple Olympics gold medal winner) Teofelio Stevenson (this bout never happened—MW). When I got to America, I was amazed that boxers are paid since, of course, they were not paid in Cuba. I thank the boxers and their trainers who allowed me to tell their stories.”

The FLBHOF Promoter Division inductee was Khalilah Escalera. Her husband, Tito, is a past FLBHOF inductee. She began her speech saying, “When Tito and I started out (as a husband-and-wife team of boxing promoters), we wanted to expand boxing in Florida. We went through the anxiety of wondering, ‘Are people going to show up?’ and then the happiness when people did show up (laughter from the audience). I love the engagement of meeting with the fans because we need the fans. I need to thank my dad because he named me Khalilah after Muhammad Ali’s wife Khalilah. Thank you so much for the boxers as we wouldn’t be here without you.”

The two inductees in the Trainers/Managers Division were next. They were Sherman Hensen and William “Papo” Vargas. Henson: “My sister was the only one who saw me box competitively. So, also, I would like to thank my daughter Kathy.” He pointed to where she was sitting in the audience as he said that sentence. Henson then took a breath and said, “Boxing is a sweet science. You don’t play with it.”

Henson added, “I want to thank all of the kids that I’ve worked with who have come off of the streets. There are times as a trainer when I wanted to give it up, but my wife told me ‘No, never.’ So, she is my Hall of Famer. Being Inducted into the Hall of Fame remains the world to me because it shows that somebody really cares. A trainer means everything to a boxer and a boxer means everything to a trainer. We (trainers) create warriors. Fear is the greatest obstacle in learning how to be a fighter. You work hard to learn to be the best of your game.”

The final division of inductees were Fighters. The first of these were Chicago, Illinois-born David Diaz (36-4-1, 17 KO’s). He was the owner of the WBC Lightweight Title from 2007 to 2008. Diaz was a 4-time Chicago Golden Gloves champion and three times he won the National Golden Gloves. “I was blessed to have a career in boxing,” said Diaz. “And I thank my father. Some people say that to be a boxer you have a few screws loose in your head and I think that’s true, especially when you start to talk to us. To my colleagues, enjoy it. God bless you guys and I’m humbled.”

Born in Georgetown, Guyana, Raul Frank (29-5-3, 14 KO’s) briefly held the United States Boxing Association (USBA) Welterweight Title. Later in his career, Frank would be the IBF Latino Super Welterweight Champion. In 1997, he was USBA Fighter of The Year. “As many of you know,” he told the audience, “The life of a boxer is a hard one. I loved boxing except for getting up at 4 a.m. to do roadwork. I thank my mom, who was the first to congratulate me when I finally learned to put my combinations together.”

Edner “Cherry Bomb” Cherry (37-7-2, 19 KO’s) started to box at 14 and turned professional at the age of 21. As a boxer, he held, at different times in his career, the WBC Caribbean Boxing Federation Lightweight Title and the National Boxing Association (NBA) Intercontinental Lightweight Championship. In the course of training for a bout, Edner suffered a heart attack. His heart stopped for three minutes — the length of a boxing round – and he was revived by a nurse.

Taking the stage to much applause, he began by saying, “I want my wife Elizabeth to come up here and stand by me.” She got up from her seat in the audience and did so. “My boxing career wasn’t an easy one. I fought anyone they put in front of me. I told me trainers and cornermen that I would do anything and everything to work hard and become a world champion.”

Jose “El Cheloman” Alonzo was born in April of 1977 in Newark, New Jersey. He won the Florida State Golden Gloves in 1993. In a fight across the bay in Tampa, Alonzo (13-1, 7 KO’s) won the WBA Fedocentro Championship. In 2011, he became Florida State Super Middleweight Champion.

This was the only inductee who brought the majority of the audience to its feet when he took to the stage. “Madre and padre, I want to thank you for teaching me how to be a man and how to be a good family man. I boxed at the Boys Club (when young) and got beat up a lot. To all of my class-mates, I am honored to be included with you.”

The final inductee was John John Molina (57-7, 33 KO’s). Born in Puerto Rico in 1965, he represented that country as a bantamweight boxer at the 1984 Summer Olympics. In Seoul, South Korea, his numerous boxing abilities won him the Boxing Cup. In late April of 1989, he won the WBO Super Featherweight Title; he also won the same weight division Title of the IBF.

 “I used to fight in the street,” Molina remembered. “And my mother was tougher than some of the boys I fought in the street. I chose boxing. I wanted to hit, not get hit,” he told the audience.

The FLBHOF Class of 2025 will be announced in January of that year.     

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ANGEL “AK-47” BARRIENTES

Angel Barrientes Set to Face Edwin Rodriguez this Saturday on Jake Paul vs. Mike Perry MVP Card

LAS VEGAS, NV (July 19, 2024) – Boxlab Promotions’ promising super bantamweight Angel “AK-47” Barrientes (11-1, 7 KOs), from Las Vegas, NV, is ready to step into the ring to face Edwin Rodriguez (12-8-2, 5 KOs) from Juana Diaz, Puerto Rico. The 6-round bout will take place this Saturday, July 20, 2024, at the Amalie Arena in Tampa, FL, as part of the highly anticipated Jake Paul vs. Mike Perry MVP card. The event will be televised globally on DAZN, offering a prime opportunity for both fighters to showcase their skills on a grand stage.

Angel Barrientes, who is returning to his natural weight class of 122 pounds after his last fight took place at featherweight, is thankful for this opportunity. His training camp has wrapped up and he’s ready to perform at his best.

“I’m really excited to be fighting on such a big card especially at super bantamweight, my normal weight class,” said Barrientes. “It’s been tough finding opponents so I’m grateful that my promoter was able to get me a fight on this big card. I had a great training camp and I feel stronger and more prepared than ever. I just want to go out there and let my hands go. Rodriguez is a very durable fighter who has never been stopped so my goal will be to get the knockout, but I’m prepared to go the distance if need be.”

“We believe this is a great opportunity for Angel to showcase what he’s made of,” stated Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions. “Fighting on a card with such high visibility is a tremendous blessing for Angel and everyone at Boxlab Promotions. We’re excited to see him perform and know he has what it takes to make a statement.”

A victory in this bout could have substantial implications for Barrientes’ career. “A win on July 20th will be a giant step in the right direction,” Barrientes concluded. “It will open up more opportunities and bring me closer to my goal of becoming a world champion. I’m ready to seize this moment and make the most of it.”

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Steffen Tangstad – The Norwegian media has reported that Steffen Tangstad, former two-time EBU heavyweight champion and world title challenger, passed away on June 26, 2024, at 65.

Story By Henry Hascup

Steffen was born in Toensber, Norway, on June 22, 1959, and was active from 1980 to 1986.

Tangstad had for a long time been suffering from a nerve disease and lost power in both arms and legs – and in 2019, he had his left leg amputated.

Steffen Tangstad became Norwegian champion six times as an amateur and then turned pro. As professional boxing became prohibited in Norway in 1981, Steffen traveled to America, and – with Chicago as a base – he built up a 16-0-2-win tally, including a draw against the future Undisputed Heavyweight Champion James “Buster” Douglas.

But it was in Denmark and with promoter Mogens Palle that Steffen got his big break, and he won the European heavyweight title on a fantastic night at the KB-Hall in Copenhagen in the fall of 1984 with a points win over Frenchman Lucian Rodriguez.

Tangstad then lost the title to Swede Anders Eklund after a bad performance but bounced back with a close win over John Westgarth in 1986 and became European champ a second time and that led to a showdown against world champ Michael Spinks, who stopped the challenger in the fourth round.

Tangstad was by then 24-2-2 (KO 14/KO by 2) and never officially retired. He was named the official challenger for the EBU title almost two years after the Spinks fight, but he settled for a career as a commentator. He later also became a promoter and manager but eventually left boxing.

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LOUIE LOPEZ VICTORIOUS AGAINST ALAN SANCHEZ

After Recent Victory Louie Lopez Hopes to Land Significant Fight

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

LOS ANGELES, CA (July 10, 2024) – Camponovo Sports’ welterweight from Corona, CA, Louie Lopez (16-2-2, 5 KOs), fresh off his unanimous decision victory over Alan Sanchez (23-5-1, 10 KOs), is hoping to land a fight against any top ten contender in division. Lopez defeated Sanchez this past Saturday on the Nate Diaz vs. Jorge Masvidal card, in a scheduled 8-round bout.

“I came out victorious and got the job done,” said Lopez. “It was a great experience fighting on a big card and having my hands raised. I’m looking forward to fighting a couple of more times before the end of the year, hopefully against a top ten contender. I feel I’m ready to step up against anyone in the rankings.”

“Seeing Louie Lopez come out victorious in his last fight was incredibly rewarding,” said promoter Alex Camponovo. “He showcased his talent and determination, proving he’s ready for bigger challenges. We are already working on securing his next fight against a top ten contender, and I have no doubt he will continue to impress and climb the ranks.”

Lopez has been making waves in the Southern California boxing scene, delivering impressive performances that have resonated with local fans. He received an overwhelming show of support from the community at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, where he had just fought.

“I was thrilled to see so many fans come out to support me,” concluded Lopez. “Fighting in front of a home crowd at the Honda Center was an incredible feeling, and I felt their energy from the opening bell. I’m grateful for their continued support and can’t wait to give them another great performance in my next fight.”

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Shakur Stevenson retaines his WBC lightweight title with a unanimous decision victory over Artem Harutyunyan

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

Newark, NewJersey. In what was a pretty close tough fought fight, Shakur Stevenson retained his WBC lightweight title with a unanimous decision victory over Artem Harutyunyan, from Hamburg, Germany, at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey by scores of 119-109.

For the third time in his last four fights, the undefeated Stevenson (22-0, 10 KOs) headlined in his native city of Newark.

Coming in the fight, Harutyunyan (12-2, 7 KOs) was coming off a loss to Frank Martin at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas last July 15th.

For some reason he was granted a fight against Stevenson even after the Martin loss. Considering that not even Harutyunyan’s family thought he won the Martin fight, he should have never been given a shot at the acclaimed Stevenson.

Just like the outcome of his fight with Martin, the challenger lost his second straight fight in America, which accounts for the only two losses on his record. Possibly now he must have learned that he should stay and fight in Germany since the USA has proven to be a nothing but a place of shattered dreams for him.

Although Harutyunyan, 33, represented Germany in the 2016 Olympics and won a bronze medal in the same Games in Rio De Janeiro, that Stevenson captured a silver medal two weight classes below at bantamweight, at the professional ranks Harutyunyan is nowhere near Shakur’s orbit.

Once the bell rang for round one, both fighters went after each other, and the German looked to hold his own against the clever and talented Stevenson.

Unfortunately for Harutyunyan though he appeared to land some solid punches to the champions head and midsection – he lacked the power punch to hurt Steveson or slow him down.

To his credit, the challenger never stopped moving forward and certainly put up a fight – it was just not enough to take away Stevenson’s crown

Stevenson won virtually every round, and even staggered the German on few accounts, especially in round 5, Still, Shakur never seemed to put his foot down on the pedal and go for a KO.

“It’s kind of hard to prove [you’re the best] if you don’t have a fighter trying to fight back; he’s just trying to survive,” said Stevenson, 27. “I would have wanted him to try a little harder so it could be a more fun fight. I did everything I could to get him out of there, too. I got to cut off the ring a little bit more. … I’m going to go back to the gym and work on cutting off the ring.”

Shakur Stevenson out-landed -3500 underdog Artem Harutyunyan 170-74 in Saturday’s fight. 

What was impressive was Stevenson’s body shots and swift combinations to the head. He simply looked masterful in his performance. The problem is the crowd at the Prudential Center wanted to see a blazing and deadly knockdown or better yet, a devastating knockout of the Eruopean challenger.

Stevenson, meanwhile, stunned Harutyunyan to the body several times, landing 66 hard body shots. The champion also out-landed the challenger 170-74 overall. Stevenson controlled range with his jab and was also able to fend off Harutyunyan’s attacks and counter with sharp combinations of his own.

At the fight’s end, the German (formerly from Armenia) suffered severe cuts under both eyes, which added additional color to the bruises on the rest of his face.

Stevenson, 134.8 pounds, went on to win titles at 126, 130 and 135 pounds.

Although all of his 22 pro fights have been promoted by Top Rank, it appears that Stevenson will be looking for greener pastures and even turned down a five-fight extension offer that would have guaranteed him $3 million per bout. The problem is there is much more monies to be gotten out there and Shakur wants to join in the money pool – and why not.

“I want to fight the best fighters in boxing,” Stevenson said. “That’s how you’re going to get to see the best version of me, when you put me in the ring with someone else that wants to fight back and compete.”

Such a marquee fight has thus far eluded Stevenson. He’s rated No. 3 by ESPN at lightweight. The division’s top two boxers, Gervonta Davis and Vasiliy Lomachenko, are in negotiations to fight later this year.

“If they don’t fight me, they don’t fight me,” Stevenson said. “I’m just going to stay in the gym and be ready.”

Photos by Sarah Stier/Getty Images

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DAVID CARDENAS

UNDEFEATED SUPER FLYWEIGHT

San Antonio Rising Star David Cardenas Remains Unbeaten with First Round Knockout

Story By Salvador Ramirez

SAN ANTONIO, TX (July 8, 2024) – Super flyweight prospect David Cardenas, the 19-year-old rising star from San Antonio, TX, remained undefeated with a first-round knockout against Steveen Angeles Cruz, improving his record to (7-0, 5 KOs). The scheduled 6-round bout, promoted by TMB Promotions, took place this past Saturday at the Event Center in Floresville, Texas.

After a feeling out process in the opening minutes of the opening round, Cardenas landed a picture-perfect left hook to the body, sending Cruz to the canvas where he didn’t recover. The stoppage came at the 2:13 mark of round one.

“I landed that body shot with a lot of force and he went down,” said Cardenas, who is trained by Rick Nunez, the longtime San Antonio boxing coach from the South Park Boxing Academy. “This is a guy I fought and went the distance earlier in my career, so it felt good to get the knockout, especially in the first round.”

With the knockout victory, Cardenas is rapidly becoming a household name in the city of San Antonio, where he has strong ties to San Antonio Spurs power forward Keldon Johnson. He is tentatively scheduled to be back in the ring on August 24, 2024, at the Alzafar Shrine Temple in his hometown of San Antonio, TX.

“I’m looking forward to fighting at home in San Antonio next month, where I know a lot of my fans and family will be in attendance,” concluded Cardenas. “I have plans to make a name for myself in San Antonio and become the big name to come out of our city. Bam Rodriguez and Mario Barrios have paved the way and I’m coming fight behind them, God willing.” 

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Marvelous Marvin Hagler gets a statue erected in his honor

“If they cut my head open, they will find one big boxing glove. That’s all I am. I live it. When a man goes into the ring, he’s going to war.” – Marvelous Marvin Hagler

Story By Alex and John Rinaldi

One of the greatest accolades that could ever be bestowed upon someone is the erection of a statue bearing their name and likeness.

The City of Brockton and its officials have unveiled a $150,000 statue honoring late boxing champion Marvelous Marvin Hagler, Brockton’s second son.

Hagler’s statue is the second erected in Brockton to memorialize a World Boxing Champion from the city. The first being former Undefeated Heavyweight Champion Rocky Marciano.

In 2012, the World Boxing Council gifted a $250,000, 22-foot-tall statue of boxing legend Rocky Marciano to the city. The statue honoring Marciano stands like a steeple outside of Brockton High School, off Forest Avenue.

Now it is Hagler’s turn.

Situated at the former location of the Petronelli Brothers’ Gym, where Hagler trained during his entire boxing career finally stands the Marvelous Marvin Hagler statue and memorial.

Born in Newark, New Jersey, Hagler moved to Brockton in 1969, where he trained with the Brockton brothers Goody and Pat Petronelli for years during his historic boxing career.

“I will say one thing about Marvelous Marvin, he never forgot where he came from,” Mayor Robert Sullivan told the crowd. “So today he is not here physically, but he is here in spirit.”

Hagler also was inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame in 1993. He was named one of the greatest Fighter of the Decade of the 1980s by The USA Boxing News.

“He put Brockton back on the map,” said state Sen. Mike Brady, a lifelong Brocktonian.

“We have so many great memories of watching those fights at high school and then the Hearns and Hagler fight was the best,” Brady said.

The Rev. Ortez Vandross said the statue “will be a memorial of his life lessons, hard work and dedication.”

“Many knew him for his dazzling smile, charisma, charming personality, intimidating presence and killer instinct in the ring, yet Marvelous Marvin Hagler was a lover of people,” Vandross said. “He was a philanthropist.”

Hagler and Marciano, known as the “Brockton Blockbuster,” are the reasons why Brockton is known as the “City of Champions.”

Brodin Studios sculpted Hagler’s statue, which was funded through a $150,000 state grant secured by state Rep. Gerry Cassidy, D-Brockton, officials said.

Hagler’s last fight was in 1987 when lost a controversial 12-round to Sugar Ray Leonard and with it his middleweight title.

Hagler retired after Leonard would not give him a rematch.

In a career that spanned 15 years, Hagler ended his days in ring with an impressive record of 62-3-2 (52 KO’s).

During that time, he defeated Alan Minter on September 27, 1980, for the undisputed middleweight championship at London’s Wembley Arena by stopping him in three rounds. So upset was the pro-Minter crowd that bottles were thrown at the ring forcing Hagler and the Petronelli Brothers to barely escape unscathed.

After becoming the Undisputed Middleweight Champion of the World, Hagler defended the title successfully twelve times till his loss to Leonard. During that span, Hagler, along with Tommy Hearns, Roberto Duran, and Sugar Ray Leonard were crowned and recognized as the Four Boxing Legends. A feat which was even remarkable due to the fact all four were still fighting – and fighting each other.

Prior to his loss to Leonard, Hagler fought and won a severely close match against Duran, then knocked out Tommy Hearns in three rounds in one of the most exciting and explosive fights of all time.

Hagler “is a true embodiment of the spirit of Brockton, demonstrating his toughness, perseverance, community and dedication,” Vandross said.

Though sadly both Marciano and Hagler never had a chance to see either statue erected – their memory and likeness will now stand and live forever.

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Teofimo Lopez batters around Steve Claggett to retain WBO Super Lightweight Title

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

Before a packed house at the James L. Knight Center in Miami Beach, WBO Super Lightweight Champion Teofimo Lopez (21-1, 13 KOs), defended his title successfully for the second time defeating Steve Claggett via unanimous decision over 12 rounds.

After winning the title from Josh Taylor last June 10^th, Lopez is trying hard to establish himself as one of the premier fighters out there today.

Although he defeated Vasyl Lomachenko in a stunning fashion on October 17, 202, when he captured the IBF and WBO Lightweight Championships along with the WBA Super Lightweight Title, unfortunately he lost the titles in his very next fight at Madison Sqaure Garden against George Kambosos Jr. losing by split decision.

Although he normally wins by relatively large margins, Lopez has to score more magnificent KO’s in order to reach the heights of Tank Davis, Shakur Stevenson, and others with that KO potential.

Regardless, against Claggett, Lopez came out punching and squaring off against the Canadian Cleggett who, himself scored pretty well with his own aggressive stance.

After the first few rounds, Lopez began to move ahead, scoring effectively with his right uppercut that stunned the challenger on more than one occasion.

Lopez was also effective boxing off his back foot and scored consistently while moving along the ropes.

Sadly, for Cleggett (38-8-2, 26 KO’s) he lacked the punch to make Lopez weary of his blows, which in turn, made the Champion unafraid of trading leather with him.

“I knew exactly what kind of fighter this guy was, he was gonna come forward and test my conditioning,” said Lopez. “He’s a tough fighter, I don’t think anyone should overlook him. My body’s growing, and although it doesn’t look like I can handle my own at 147, I believe I can,” he said. “I want these great champions. Whoever it is, whatever it is. We don’t dodge nobody. I just want to fight the best.”

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Gervonta “Tank” Davis demolishes Contender Frank Martin with 8^th Round KO to retain WBA Lightweight Championship 

Vasyl Lomachenko heading the list as his next opponent

Story By Alex and John Rinaldi

When the moon over the desert in Las Vegas rose to its height above Las Vegas Avenue the day after a full strawberry moon peered above the landscape like a bloody eye, one thing was for certain – WBA Lightweight Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis has proved once again that he is one of the best fighters and biggest punchers on the planet.

 After knocking out Ryan Garcia last April with a body shot, Davis, who has recently spent some time in a detention center has now returned to the boxing ring – which apparently is his happy place. Unfortunately for his opponents, fighting “Tank” is like entering the medieval Tower of London and preparing oneself to either being tortured or beheaded.

 Gervonta Davis entered the ring to defend his WBA lightweight title against previously unbeaten Frank Martin who came in with an impressive record of 18-0 (12 KO’s). More importantly, Martin came to fight – and fight he did.

From the sound of the bell for round one, Martin took the fight to the champion Tank who seemed to start the fight at a slow speed having returned from a 14-month layoff. Although it was Martin’s first world title bout, the challenger landed the majority of the punches, most of which behind the left jab.

This continued over the next few rounds with Martin exhibiting a boxing lesson to Davis, who still seemed somewhat frozen in space and time.

In rounds 3 to 7, Martin won virtually all the rounds with swift combinations and stellar footwork keeping the champion at bay. Every time Tank tried to start and go on the offensive, Martin moved away from harm’s way and continued piling up points.

After beating Davis over the last seven rounds, Martin must have thought he only had five more rounds remaining in the bout with the Lightweight Championship within his reach.

And that is what the great sport boxing is all about – there is something to be said for optimism and there is something to be said about goals and dreams.

Then there is also something to be said about Gervonta “Tank” Davis and the atomic power of his punches.

With all those conflicting thoughts swarming in the air – the bell rang like a deadly harbinger to start round 8.

Little did Martin know; the bell would soon turn out to be a funeral chime for the dead and dying.

The champion soon caught Martin with a big uppercut. After a closely fought first minute of the round, Davis trapped Martin by the corner against the ropes and nailed him with a straight to the chin that straightened up his head and left it open for three straight left hooks, the last of which crashed against his jaw like a sledgehammer , nearly tearing his head from his shoulders, and smashing Martin straight to the ring floor stretched out like a medical school cadaver.

Immediately, the thrilled Davis, who knew all too well that Martin was not going to beat the count, jumped on the ropes of the neutral corner and began swaying and shouting to the crowd.

When the ten-count was finally tolled, Davis leaped off the ring corner in a complete backwards flip as the audience roared on his behalf.

 “I knew he was going to tire down,” Davis (30-0, 28 KO’s) said during an in-ring interview after the fight. “So that’s why I was just standing there, be a target for him just so he could tire himself out. And once he tired himself out, you know me, I started picking him apart.”

It was a knockout finish to an exciting night of fights from Las Vegas.

With a lightweight title belt still wrapped around his waist, Davis has plenty of options open for his next fight. Included in the group of prospective fighters are lightweight champions Shakur Stevenson and Vasiliy Lomachenko. Both will be in consideration for a title unification while a rematch against 140-pound champion Issac Cruz is in the mix as well.

It has been reported by promoter Bob Arum, that talks between Davis and Lomachenko are set to resume this week for a potential unification bout for the WBA and IBF lightweight world titles, potentially taking place in November or December of this year. “I am optimistic about Davis-Lomachenko. The PBC team are professionals, my team are professionals, and they will sort it out,” Arum stated. The Ukrainian, who is the current IBF Lightweight champion, holds a record of 18-3-0.

“Most importantly, I want to just get back to the drawing board,” Davis said after the win. “Get back in the gym and just stay focused. I felt I was a little rusty, but all (those) guys are on my radar.”

While the official purse figures for the Davis vs. Martin fight have not been disclosed, Davis is expected to have earned around $15 million, depending on how the fight performs on PPV, his earnings could exceed $25 million.

The last mega-fight Davis had was against Ryan Garcia last April 22, which generated over $100 million in revenue, according to Garcia. While Garcia’s manager, Oscar De La Hoya, revealed Garcia’s purse was an impressive $30 million, it’s estimated that Davis earned a larger share of the pay-per-view revenue, potentially exceeding $40 million.

In the co-main event, David Benavidez dominated former 175-pound champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk to win the interim WBC title by unanimous decision. Benavidez moved up to the light heavyweight division after repeatedly being passed over for a fight against undisputed 168-pound champion Canelo Alvarez.

Benavidez looked comfortable at the new weight, cruising past Gvozdyk easily on the cards to secure mandatory challenger status for the winner of Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev’s undisputed fight in October.

ach, CA 90810

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Pac-man may be back in the boxing ring and fighting for the WBC Interim Welterweight Title

Just when boxing fans, and especially Filipino boxing fans, figured that Manny Pacquiao would never step in the ring again, news comes out that he may be back – and sooner than they thought.

Like most retired athletes, there are times when they get that urge or itch to return to their former place in their respective sport. Well, now almost three years into his retirement the Pac-Man looks to be returning to the ring and his countrymen could not be more thrilled.

It has been reported that Pacquaio’s team are in negotiations with Mario Barrios’ team for a shot at the WBC world interim welterweight title. Considering that the  iconic Filipino multi- division champion has not fought since a points loss against Yordenis Ugás in August 2021, his name is still big enough to fill up chairs in an arena.

 “Manny is looking at that option to fight Mario Barrios. He loves the idea of finishing his career by winning the WBC title. That was his first belt way back,” said his agent Sean Gibbons confirmed. “So, over the next two weeks, we are going to try to make the fight.”

It is the same WBC title was that was vacated by Terence Crawford due to inactivity and Barrios became the interim champion by taking down the man who ended Pacquiao’s career,namely  Ugás, by knocking him twice to the canvas. After then successfully defending the interim title against Fabian Maidana, Barrios is 29-2 and in the middle of a rebuild following losses to Keith Thurman and Gervonta Davis.

Manny is not only a living legend, he is also the only eight-division world champion in the history of boxing. The first to win lineal championships in four different weight classes, and the only champion to cross four decades (1990s, 2000s, 2010s, 2020s).

Apparently, Pacquiao is intending to supplement his championship belt collection by adding the WBC title to his vast collection.

Presenlty, Manny is set to compete against Japanese MMA fighter Chihiro Suzuki on July 28 at the Super Rizin.3 event.

Hopefully if the fight takes place that Pac-Man still has some thread left on his titers and can compete with a mucg younger adversary in Barrios.

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FRANK MARTIN, ALBERTO PUELLO & CARLOS ADAMES

LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

Davis Vs. Martin & Benavidez Vs. Gvozdyk Topped

PBC Pay-Per-View Event On Prime Video Saturday, June 15 From the MGM Grand Garden Arena In Las Vegas

Click HERE for Photos from Alex Sanchez/TGB Promotions

Click HERE for Workout Replay Via the Premier Boxing Champions YouTube Channel

LAS VEGAS – June 13, 2024 – Unbeaten top lightweight contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, undefeated former world champion Alberto Puello and WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames held a media workout in Las Vegas on Friday ahead of their respective showdowns on Saturday, June 15 in a PBC Pay-Per-View Event on Prime Video in the 100^th championship fight night to take place at the historic MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Martin will challenge boxing superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis for Davis’ WBA Lightweight World Championship in the main event, while Puello duels fellow unbeaten Gary Antuanne Russell in a super lightweight clash, and Adames defends his WBC Middleweight World Championship against U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. In the co-main event, undefeated two-time world champion David “El Monstro” Benavídez is set to make his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through www.axs.com. 

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, Sampson Boxing, TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Friday from the Pound 4 Pound Gym in Las Vegas:

FRANK MARTIN

“I feel like this is one of those moments where all the hard work I put in is paying off. With all the work I’ve been putting in leading up to the fight, and all the work I’ve put in over the years, this just feels like a life changing moment. This is my time to come out on top.

“I just need to be composed, be calm and be who I am. I can’t let any of the antics or crowd or the noise get in the way of me getting the victory.

“I feel like this is gonna be a good fight. We all know what ‘Tank’ brings, but a lot of guys don’t know what I bring. They know a little bit of it, but they don’t know the full arsenal I have.

“We know ‘Tank’ is explosive and fast. He’s got it all, but on fight night, the world will see that I’ve got it all too. So it’s gonna be two dogs in there locking up like pitbulls. The best man will win that night.

“I believe in myself, even if the world is against me. I know the work that I put in. I feel like I was born to do this. I feel it in my body. It’s just time for me to show up and show out.

“I expect Gervonta to come out and put his best foot forward. He’s gonna be him. I know he’s all the way locked in for me. I know he felt the energy from me and he knows I’m coming to win.”

ALBERTO PUELLO

“I feel really strong. It’s been a great training camp. I’m extremely ready to take advantage of this great opportunity that I have. I’m thankful to my team for putting me in this position and I’m going to show why I deserve to be here.

“Gary Antuanne Russell is a great fighter and someone who packs a lot of power. He doesn’t have many weaknesses, but I do believe that I’ve found his. I’m going to expose it and look for more when we’re in the ring.

“I’m very comfortable fighting against another southpaw. I’ve sparred against nothing but southpaws, so I couldn’t be more prepared.

“There’s nothing better than fighting on a card like this, with my eyes set on showing that I’m ready to earn another world championship. I’m representing my country of the Dominican Republic and I promise my fans that it will be a great show and that I’m going to win.”

CARLOS ADAMES

“I’ve always had that championship mentality, so nothing has changed for me now that I am the world champion. It’s just a matter of continuing to use that approach going forward.

“Gausha is an accomplished fighter who’s faced a lot of great opponents, but he’s never been in the ring with Carlos Adames. He’s going to realize what that’s like on June 15.

“I’ve gone to another level in sparring in training camp. Throughout camp I’ve felt myself exceed all of the people I spar. That’s how I know that I’m ready for this fight.

“At the level of conditioning that I’m at right now, I couldn’t feel any better. I’m sharp and I’m ready to defend my title in tremendous fashion next Saturday night.”

#         #         #

ABOUT DAVIS VS. MARTIN & BENAVIDEZ VS. GVOZDYK

Davis vs. Martin and Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk will see popular superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and David “El Monstro” Benavidez co-headline a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, June 15 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Headlining the show is the undefeated three-division champion Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, while Benavídez is set to make his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

The pay-per-view will also see undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell take on unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, while WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames battles veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

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Split-T Management Signs Undefeated Super Middleweight Prospect Nathan Lugo

NEW YORK (June 13, 2024) — Split-T Management is proud to announce the signing of undefeated Super Middleweight Nathan Lugo to a long term managerial agreement. 

Lugo had a standout amateur career that saw him win an astonishing 23 National Amateur titles. The 19 year-compiled a record of 223-19.

Lugo won the 2022 Elite National title which made him the youngest fighter ever to qualify for the Olympic Trials. Lugo also captured many international gold medals as he campaigned extensively overseas at a very young age. 

Lugo is considered to have next level power, which was evidenced by having over 40 stoppage victories. An unheard of number in the amateur style format. 

“Split-T focuses strategically on signing the best amateur talent. I can’t say there has been more excitement surrounding someone coming out since Teofimo Lopez. This young man has as much potential as I’ve ever seen. Split T will help him fulfill his potential and realize those goals he has,” said David McWater of Split-T Management.

“Split-T Management has always had my best interest, and has proven they are the best in the game at what they do, honored to be representing this amazing brand.,” said Nathan Lugo..

“Dave McWater and Split-T has met and exceeded every expectation that I had dreamed of as a father and a coach in the handling of Nathan, I know Dave and the team at Split-T are the epitome of excellence when it comes to management in the boxing industry,” Said Lugo’s father and trainer, Michael Lugo.

In 2021, Nathan, then 16 and his brother Elijah, 14 will featured in Sports Illustrated prestigious Faces in the Crowd sections https://www.si.com/faces-in-the-crowd/video/2021/01/07/nathan-lugo-elijah-lugo-boxing-prodigy-brothers

As a professional, Lugo, 19-years-old of Marietta, Georgia is 1-0 with one knockout.

On April 19th, Lugo showed electric power in taking out Richard Lartigue inside of a round in their four-round super-middleweight bout in Atlanta.

Lugo dropped Lartigue with a hard left hook. Lugo would not rest on his laurels as he dumped Lartigue with a hard right hand and the fight was stopped at 1:33.

Because of the opening round stoppage, the 23-time national champion earned the Overtime bonus.

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Split-T Management Signs Undefeated Star Junior Welterweight Brandun Lee

NEW YORK (June 13, 2024) Split-T Management has announced the signing of Brandun Lee, a sensational top rated contender within the junior welterweight division.

Lee, of La Quinta, California, made his professional debut in 2017 and since then has gone undefeated with a perfect professional record of 28 wins, 0 losses with 23 of the wins coming by way of knockout. In recent years, Brandun has been featured on major network television in ten of his past twelve bouts. He started off on ShoBox: The New Generation in September of 2019 and then graduated to both Showtime Championship Boxing and Showtime PPV platforms. In those twelve bouts, nine of which he won by KO, his opponents came into the bout with a combined record of 251-48-15. Still only 25 years young yet competing at the elite level for several years already, Lee is looking to get his much awaited shot at a world title in the near future. Something that should not elude this special, unique and talented boxer much longer.

“I’ve followed Brandun since the youth amateurs. He has always had the potential to be not just great American talent, but worldwide star. I am so very excited to finally be representing him. He’s only a couple fights away from a world title opportunity and soon enough a world championship belt will be around his waist,” said David McWater of Split-T Management.

“Signing with Split-T Management is a huge step for me to become a world champion. David has always believed in me and has shown interest in me ever since I was a prospect in the amateurs. I’m looking to start our great campaign together this summer. My team is now complete and I’m ready for war,” said Brandun Lee.

Brandun Lee turned pro at just seventeen and within a few short years had more wins in the boxing ring than he had total years alive on the planet. He had a stellar amateur run that saw him go 196-5 that led him to the 2015 U.S. Junior National Championship, taking home the gold medal at 145 pounds. Lee is guided and trained by his father Bobby. Lee is of multiracial descent having a Korean American father and Mexican American mother. He grew up in Southern California and embraced the diversity of the community. He has now become active within it supporting many initiatives and causes.

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Atif Oberlton Scores 6th Round KO Against Harry Keenan Cruz to Remain Undefeated

Story By Salvador Ramirez

Orlando, FL – Boxlab Promotions delivered another great “Night of Champions” boxing series at the Caribe Royale Hotel in Orlando, Florida. DAZN aired the bouts on June 9 with all the action featured on a global stage. In the main event of the evening, scheduled for 8-rounds in the light heavyweight division, Atif Oberlton (11-0, 9 KOs), a southpaw from Philadelphia, defeated Harry Keenan Cruz (8-5, 4 KOs) by sixth round knockout. 

Oberlton controlled the action as he pressed forward once the opening bell rang. Cruz seemed to be just trying to survive as he was running the entire fight, as Oberlton did his best to engage. Oberlton landed a left uppercut after a flurry of punches and the referee stopped the fight. The official stoppage was at the 2:23 mark of round six.

“I wanted to come out tonight and put on a great performance,” said Oberlton. “I got the knockout and now I’m ready to take my career to the next level. I put in a lot of hard work to get into this position. I’ll be back in the gym next week and hopefully I’ll be back in the ring before the end of the summer.”

In the co-main event, Herich Ruiz (5-0, 3 KOs) defeated Brandon Carmack (7-5-3, 4 KOs) by knockout in a heavyweight bout scheduled for 8-rounds. Ruiz dominated the bout from the opening round scoring two knockdowns, the first came in round one when Carmack took a knee after a flurry of punches. In round two, Carmack took another knee after getting hit with an overhand left. Ruiz carried Carmack for a few more rounds before ending the bout with another overhand left. The referee stopped the bout at the 1:14 mark of round six.

“Carmack showed a lot of heart lasting six rounds with me, but I showed my skills and power to the world,” said Ruiz. “I had to slow down my pace just a bit because he was he was taking a lot of punishment. I wanted to break him down some more and I got him out of there. I’m ready to take on all the big names in the heavyweight division.”

“We are delighted to have hosted another thrilling boxing event at the Caribe Royale Hotel in Orlando,” said Amaury Piedra, managing director of Caribe Royale. “The fighters delivered an incredible show for the fans tonight. Carlos De Leon Castro’s debut was particularly impressive, and we believe he has the potential to become the next big star from Puerto Rico. We have many exciting events on the horizon and can’t wait to bring more fantastic shows to the fans in Orlando.”

This event was brought to you by Boxlab Promotions in association with Warriors Boxing, Undisputed Promotions and Kings Promotions.

UNDERCARD BOUTS:

Chavez Barrientes (9-0, 6 KOs) defeated Daniel Olea (13-10-3, 5 KOs) by unanimous decision in a featherweight bout scheduled for 6-rounds. Scorecards read 60-54, 59-54 twice for Barrientes.

Corey Marksman (9-0-1, 7 KOs) defeated Jonathan Perez (41-41, 33 KOs) by knockout in round one in of a lightweight bout scheduled for 6-rounds. A left hook to the body at the 1:44 mark of round one ended the fight.

Jockson Blanco (6-0, 4 KOs) defeated Dante Concepcion (1-2-1) by third round technical knockout in a scheduled 4-round welterweight bout. Conception was down in round two via an overhand right. After a flurry the referee stops the bout at the 2:00 mark of round three giving Blanco a TKO victory,

Carlos De Leon Castro (1-0, 1 KO), the 11-time national amateur champion from Puerto Rico defeated Christian Reed (0-6) by first round knockout in his pro debut in a bout scheduled for 4-round in the super featherweight divison. Reed was down three times in round one. The first knockdown came via left hook to the body. The second knockdown down came via a left hook to the body and head combo. The third knockdown came via an overhand right to the head and the bout was stopped at the 2:18 in round one.

Jonathan Gonzalez (20-0-1, 16 KOs) defeated Edward Ulloa Diaz (14-6, 11 KOs) by seventh round knockout in a scheduled 10-round middleweight bout. Gonzalez was down in round one. Diaz was down in round 6 and was knocked out at the 0:22 mark of round seven.

Yoelvis Gomez (7-1, 6 KOs) defeated Marcelo Bzowski (11-27-4, 4 KOs) by sixth round knockout in a scheduled 6-round middleweight bout. The knockout came at the 2:44 mark of round six via a overhand right to the head.

Jamar Pemberton (7-1, 5 KOs) defeated Luis Florez (26-31, 21 KOs) by unanimous decision in a scheduled 6-ound welterweight bout. Scorecards read 60-54 across the board for Pemberton.

Carlos Lebron (3-1, 3 KOs) defeated Miguel Rebullosa (4-21, 2 KOs) by second round knockout in a scheduled 4-round super bantamweight bout. A right hook to the body ended the bout at the 1:32 mark of round two.

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Tyson Fury vs Oleksander Usyk

The Battle of the Undefeated Square Off in the Fight of the Ages!

Story By Alex and John Rinaldi

This Saturday boxing takes the global sport’s center stage as the crowning of an Undisputed Heavyweight Champion is in the works. More importantly, for the sake of boxing, Tyson Fury has to win and win big. Better yet, he has to destroy the Ukrainian heavyweight, and knock him violently into tomorrow, and forever smash his chances of ever becoming heavyweight champion again.

Boxing simply cannot have an Oleksander Usyk reigning over the pugilistic landscape. He has done nothing for the sport, and he harkens one back to the famous quotes the great former Undisputed Heavyweight Champion Lennox Lewis once said about another group of Ukranian fighters – Wladimir and Vitali Klitschko. The first quote is, “I am going to have one Klitschko for breakfast and one Klitschko for lunch.” The second quote is, “The Klitschkos will destroy boxing.” In truth Lennox was right on two of the three predictions. One, he had Vitali Klitschko for breakfast and two, the Klitschkos killed heavyweight boxing.

It was not due to the fact that they had no talent. They were certainly great fighters and Hall of Famers. The problem was they had virtually no personality or charm, and never made an attempt to give the fans a night of thrilling boxing. The main problem with them was they did only what they had to do to win. Considering they fought some of the worse heavyweight contenders in the sport’s history, they never made an all-out effort to score big-time knockouts – which is exactly what boxing fans come to see. Plus, fans resent it when they plunk down hard-earned dollars just to witness a heavyweight champion line his pockets taking the easy way out.

It also does not help matters that Usyk hails from an Eastern Eruopean Country that for over fifty years was part of the Soviet Union. Worse than that, he has the charisma of a muted parrot and fights with the excitement of a lampshade.   To his credit he was an Undisputed Cruiserweight Champion and now is a Heavyweight Champion, whose only great wins were against former Heavyweight Champion Anthony Joshua.  Fortunately for Usyk, when he twice fought Joshua who has a hammer-like right hand capable of knocking people out with, the Brit for some strange reason decided to throw away his punching persona and eclipse it with a stand-up boxer stance. As a result, instead of fighting Usyk, whose nickname is The Cat, like a fierce British lion, Joshua decided to fight him with the valor of a Vatican church mouse.     

Had General Custer showed this same lack of courage against the Sioux Indian Tribe that Joshua displayed against Usyk – Custer would still be hiding under his bed.

Tyson Fury, meanwhile, has fought two of the greatest heavyweight champions of his generation – Wladimir Klitschko and Deontay Wilder and he beat them both.     So exciting was Fury’s trilogy with Deontay Wilder that it ranks right up there with the Muhammad Ali-Joe Frazier and the Rocky Graziano-Tony Zale trilogies. Fury not only won two of the three fights, but also rose up from the canvas in the first and third bouts.

Luckily, the fighters will be earning a King’s ransom in this fight as reports suggest that Fury is contracted to earn around 70% of a total purse anticipated to be worth around $150m (£116m), with a clause stating Fury must donate £1m of his earnings to Ukraine amid its ongoing war against Russia.

While the final figure will not be known until after the fight, Fury’s US promoter Bob Arum has claimed that his fighter will earn more than $100m (£78m) from the showdown.

“If you told Tyson Fury he’s set to make $100m, he’d really get p***ed off because he thinks, and I think he’s right, that he’s going to make a lot more,” said Arum. “I don’t know the number, but it’s a lot more than $100m.”

Besides earning the lion’s share of the revenue, Tyson Fury is also the betting favorite and is rated 3/1 to win by KO/TKO and 9/4 by decision, with Usyk rated 5/1 to win by knockout and 9/4 by split decision.

Usyk (21-0, 14 KOs) holds the IBF, WBA, and WBO championships, while Fury (34-0-1, 24 KOs) holds the coveted WBC title along with being declared the true Lineal Heavyweight Champion.

Tyson Fury at 6’9″ with the punch of a bazooka blast, has the KO ability to knock out any man who stands in his way. The Gypsy King is also resilient and manages to rise from adversity to capture an amazing win. With 23 KOs on his ledger, Fury is definitely the bigger slugger of the two. Fury is also a switch-hitter and has won everything there is to win at heavyweight division. The Usyk win would indeed be his crowning moment until he fights Joshua after his win.

Usyk, meanwhile, is six inches shorter with just a little over half of his fights ending by way of knockout. His only asset is that he is a southpaw, and he tends to take a pretty good punch. Still, it is hard to fathom that a blown-up cruiserweight like Usyk can effectively out-punch and/or out-duel a match with Fury.

When Usyk was asked if Fury is the toughest fight of Usyk’s career so far, the reigning WBA, IBF, and WBO Heavyweight champion replied, “I think so, big, tough, very big,” Usyk said. “But size doesn’t matter, if size matters, the king of the animals would be an elephant. I don’t have a prediction, but I will win beautifully.”

As for Fury, he intends to KO his Ukranian adversary. Fury said of Usyk, “He’s probably the best fighter I’ve fought,” He’s a two-division world champion, undisputed at cruiserweight, unified champion at heavyweight and Olympic gold medalist.” “I think this win puts me at number one, barring none. Beating Usyk now puts me number one status of all time.”

Whoever walks away the winner of the bout, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh on May 18, boxing will crown its first undisputed heavyweight champion in over a quarter of a century. Boxing is on the big stage and the stage does not get any bigger than this one.

Fury vs. Usyk betting trends

• Fury via KO/TKO/Tech. Dec/DQ: +333
• Fury via decision: +200
• Usyk via KO/TKO/Tech. Dec/ DQ: +450
• Usyk via decision: +175
• Draw: +1400
• BOXING TWINS’ PREDICTION

  We see Tyson Fury scoring a late round KO of the Ukrainian heavyweight and hopefully getting rid of Usyk once and for all.

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Former heavyweight champion and Icon Mike Tyson is picking Tyson Fury

“I look forward to that fight [Fury Vs. Usyk].” said the former Undisputed Heavyweight Champion, Mike Tyson. “That is going to be an interesting fight. I’m going towards Tyson Fury because I think he’s just going to overpower him. He’s going to catch up with him and overpower him. I got to go with Fury. I think he’s the best fighter in the world, especially in the heavyweight division. Great fighters lose, great fighters look bad, that doesn’t stop them from being great fighters,” 

Concerning Fury’s lackluster bout with Ngannou, Mike Tyson said, “Hey, we should [not focus on what Fury did against Ngannou], but you have to understand that he is still the champion. He made that night a great night. He gave Francis [Ngannou] the opportunity, and that was just a bad night at the office for him. We all have bad nights, and listen, that was his bad night.”

Lennox Lewis: ‘The bigger fighter usually wins’

Lewis also predicted that Fury would win. “I believe the bigger guy, the better guy, wins. They both have good skill and Usyk has good movement, with good balance, and puts his punches together well. But he’s going up against a 6ft 9in guy and, for me, Tyson Fury is very elusive even if he is so big. If he makes you miss, he makes you pay. It’s an interesting match-up but I always say if two guys have the same technical skill, the bigger fighter wins because he can force his size on the other guy.”

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Christian Carto Continues to Roll With Third-Round Stoppage over Jesus Martinez in Philadelphia

Oberlton, Howling and Han Remain Undefeated

Story By Salvador Ramirez

Philadelphia (May 15, 2024) -This past Friday night at Live! Casino and Hotel Philadelphia, popular bantamweight contender Christian Carto won his fifth consecutive bout with a third-round stoppage in their scheduled eight-round main event.

The seven bout card was promoted by King’s Promotions.

Carto of Philadelphia, once again brought a large fan base to cheer him on and they were not disappointed.

Carto registered two knockdowns and the bout was stopped at 1:06.

Carto who is ranked 14th by the WBO improves to 22-1 with 15 knockouts. Martinez of Miami is 35-21-1.

Rising light heavyweight Atif Oberlton remained perfect by stopping Juan Barajas in the opening round of their eight-round bout.

Oberlton dropped Barajas twice before the fight was called off at 2:59.

Oberlton of Philadelphia is now 10-0 with eight knockouts. Barajas of Mexico is 8-2.

Bree Howling kept her undefeated mark intact with an eight-round unanimous decision over former world champion Nancy Franco in a bantamweight contest.

Howling of Calgary, Canada won by shutout scores of 80-72 on all cards and is now 7-0. Franco of Guadalajara, Mexico is now 19-20-2.

Stephanie Han remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Michaela Nogue in a junior lightweight contest.

Han of El Paso, Texas won by scores of 60-54 on all scores and is now 8-0. Nogue of Egg Harbor, NJ is 2-5-1.

Muhammad Robinson stopped David Thomas in round five of their six-round welterweight bout.

The time of the stoppage was 40 seconds of round five for the Baltimore native who is now 7-1 with three knockouts. Thomas of Orange, Texas is 6-7-1.

David Whitmire was impressive in stopping Breydon Glaude in 92 seconds of their four-round welterweight fight.

Whitmire, 19 years-old of Washington, DC is now 5-0 with four-knockouts. Glaude is 0-2.

Ibraheim Robinson took a hard-fought six-round unanimous decision of Demarcus Layton in a junior middleweight affair.

Robinson of Baltimore, won by scores of 59-55 and 58-56 twice and is now 7-1-1. Laytom of Little Rock, Arkansas is 9-7-1.

Photo by Darryl Cobb Jr.

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SIX TITLE FIGHTS HIGHLIGHT SPECTACULAR NIGHT OF BOXING ON FRIDAY, JUNE 7

AT SEMINOLE HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO;

MIKAELJAN VS. ROZICKI LEAD6 ACTION PACKED MAIN EVENT FIGHTS

FT. LAUDERDALE, FL (May 8, 2024)—There is no better in the business than Hall of Fame boxing promoter Don King when it comes to building an action-packed championship night of boxing and he hasn’t failed the fans in putting together the Friday, June 7^th card at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in a co-promotion with Kris Lawrence’s The Heavyweight Factory.

Six title fights are main events on the one card plus two rising stars from Miami and Ft. Lauderdale will be showcased with one of the main events finding WBC World Cruiserweight championship Norair “The Dark Horse” Mikaeljan (27-2, 12 KOs)  of Miami facing the number one challenger in Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki (20-1, 19 KOs) from Ontario, Canada.

King is dedicating this great boxing card to the honor of the life and legacy of the late great Jose Sulaiman in the spirit of fighting for world peace.  “Jose was at the forefront of always putting on great fights and we plan to honor him with this great card,” said King.

The popular and exciting WBA Continental USA Middleweight Champion, Paterson, NJ’s

Ian “The Young General” Green (18-2 with 12 KOs) will be defending his title against Toledo’s Roy Barringer (10-4, 6 KOs).  The fan favorite Green enters this bout on the strength of six straight victories.

WBA NABA Light Heavyweight Champion Ahmed “The American Pharoah” Elbiali (23-1, 18 KOs) will defend his title against Roamer Alexis Angulo (28-3, 23 KOs) of the Dominican Republic via Colombia.

The fourth title fight of the night will be for the WBC International Lightweight championship as champion Antonio Perez (9-0, 5 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA will challenge local favorite Antonio Williams (16-0-1, 7 KOs) of Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

A great WBA heavyweight special attraction title bout will spotlight two rising stars in the division as Cassius Chaney (23-1, 16 KOs) of New London, CT will battle Michael “The Bounty” Hunter (21-1-2, 15 KOs) of Las Vegas, NV.  Chaney will be risking his WBA Continental North American Championship belt.

An extra added sensational featured attraction for the WBC People’s Championship featuring Adrien “The Problem” Broner (35-4-1 with 24 KOs) of Cincinnati and Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (16-1-1 with 10 KOs) of Las Vegas, NV if Broner shows up.  Blair will be there.

Rising hometown sensation De’von Williams (4-0, 4 KOs) of Ft. Lauderdale, FL will meet Travis Floyd of Douglasville, GA in a super lightweight attraction and Miami’s Michael Oliveira (21-2, 16 KOs) will be spotlighted in a super middleweight attraction for eight rounds.

Tickets are available through Ticketmaster for “Fist of Fury”.  Tickets are priced at $75, $100 and $200.  Ringside seats are $500 and tables are priced at $5,500.

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Canelo Alvarez retains his WBC, WBO, IBF and WBA super middleweight titles with unanimous victory over the tough and previously unbeaten Jaime Munguia

Story By Alex and John Rinaldi

May 2024. Before a sellout crowd of 17,492 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Canelo Alvarez impressively defended his undisputed super middleweight titles against previously unbeaten Jaime Munguia.

Surprisingly, in all the years he has been fighting on this date, it was the first time that Canelo fought a fellow Mexican fighter on Cinco de Mayo.

Alvarez, who put his four super-middleweight belts on the line, weighed in at 166.8 pounds (75.6 kg) while fellow Mexican Munguia tipped the scales at 167.4 pounds (75.9 kg).

While both fighters welcomed by the Mexican National Anthem, the Mariachi Band in the ring did an amazing and truly original version of the A

merican National Anthem featuring instruments such as the Mexican vihuela, violin, trumpets, accordion, harp, guitarron, banjo sexto, along with a regular guitar. It was the most unique version of the Star-Spangled Banner since Jimmy Hendrix performed the anthem at the Woodstock festival back in 1969.

Entering the ring, Canelo, 166.8, looking fierce and anxious, wearing black trunks with tiffany blue trim and matching gloves, while his adversary Jaime Munguia wore trunks bearing the colors and features of the Mexican flag along with black and green gloves.

Munguia looked confident, declaring before the fight, “I’m so happy and excited that this fight is almost here. My team has been behind me the whole way and all the fans can expect a full out Mexican war. Make sure to tune in, you will not be disappointed. Canelo has a great deal of experience and has faced great fighters. I may not have the same resume, but I have youth on my side.”

Well, after 12 hard-fought rounds, experience ended up battering youth.

To his credit, the challenger Munguia fought hard and never stopped throwing punches. The problem was that though he struck Canelo with some hard right hands, the blows seemed to barely hurt the legendary Mexican Champion.

On the other hand, Canelo’s blows appeared at times to nearly remove Munguia’s head from his shoulders.

Munguia came out fast in the first round displaying some good boxing skills and the ability to land punches at Canelo’s jaw and body.  

The challenger not only successfully established the jab, but he also used his height advantage to keep a distance from the power punching Canelo. As the round progressed, Canelo quickly began to bore his way inside and started landing some tough body and rib shots, punches that would eventually slow the challenger down in the later rounds.

In rounds two and three, the fighters both exchanged a good deal of leather at the other, as Canelo was able to absorb the constant pressure of Jaime Munguia, and countered efficiently with swift, telling shots.

Undeterred, Munguia continued with his aggressive strategy by consistently throwing blows at the four-inch shorter champion, while attempting to pile up points in the process.

The problem was that Munguia’s shots never stopped Alvarez from moving forward. Nor could the challenger’s punches faze Alvarez at all.

Instead, Canelo looked like a rock mason, repeatedly chipping away at his foe while Munguia continued his aggressive offensive. Overall, it turned out to be an exciting and eventful fight, but eventually Canelo began to take full control of the bout.

“He’s strong but I think he’s a little slow. I could see every punch,” said Canelo after the bout. “That’s why I’m the best. I’m the best fighter right now, for sure.”

Then came round four.

Munguia began the round moving and boxing and giving Canelo angles while spearing him with some blistering jabs and right crosses.  Still unfazed, Canelo waded forward with some body shots and left hooks as both fighters were exchanging punches with the other.

Then with less than in a minute left in the round, Canelo countered with a left to the jaw followed by a short right uppercut that appeared to have arisen from the depths of hell and landed like a grenade on the challenger’s jaw. Munguia instantly crashed to the floor as if thrown off a six-story building as the crowd leaped to their feet excited that Canelo was about to finish off the fight.

As for Munguia, he was probably wondering first, what happened and second, whether he could get back to his feet.  Since it was the first knockdown of Munguia’s career, he bravely managed to beat the count and remain upright, not only for the rest of the round, but also for the remainder of the fight.

When the bell for round five rang chants of “Canelo!” were shouted in the T-Mobile Arena, where support was divided between the Mexican combatants in a fight, though most seemed lodged in the Canelo camp.

In round six, an Alvarez jab snapped Munguia’s head back followed by a left hook that had Munguia’s legs buckling, and his head shaken as if it was about to be spirited over the ropes of the ring.

Still, the knockout never happened.

For the next eight rounds Canelo tried for a knockout, but Munguia stood his ground and made of fight of it.

In round twelve, Canelo almost scored another the second knockdown when he slammed the challenger with a hard right to the jaw in the final minute of the fight. The punch shook and stunned Munguia, and it looked like one more follow-up blow would end the fight there and then. For some reason Canelo, probably in deference to the challenger’s age and grit, stepped away and the bell sounded seconds later with the challenger still on his feet.

When the announcer relayed the tallies, Canelo Alvarez defeated Jaime Munguia by unanimous decision to retain his undisputed super middleweight titles. The scores were 117-110, 116-111 and 115-112.

Though Munguía, 27, lost the fight, it was relatively close, and he still should have a great career in front of him. Also, Munguía is expected to earn in the neighborhood of $10 million dollars for his effort, which should help him come to terms with the loss against arguably one of the greatest fighters of his generation.

“Jaime Munguia is a great fighter. He’s strong, he’s smart. But I took my time. I had 12 rounds to win the fight and I did. I did really good, and I feel proud about it,” Alvarez said after handing Munguia the first defeat of his professional career. Saturday’s fight, which bettered Alvarez’s record to 61-2-2, was the 33-year-old’s first since beating American Jermell Charlo last year. It was also Alvarez’s fourth time defending his WBC, WBO, IBF and WBA super middleweight titles.

As for Canelo, he is expected to earn upwards of $35 million dollars for his great win.

Next up for him could be a bout with former two-time super middleweight champion David Benavidez. As for Canelo,  he was non-committal and left his options open.

“I don’t know right now, I’m going to rest. I’m going to enjoy my family,” Alvarez said. “I can ask for whatever I want and fight whoever I want, but you know if the money is right … I can fight right now.”

Benavidez said he would love a fight with Canelo but can no longer wait around, since he is moving up to 175-pounds for his next fight.

For Canelo Alvarez, the money and fights are far from ending for him. Considering his experience – he is only 33 years old and may very well have many more miles left on his fighting tires. For boxing’s sake, let’s hope he does.

Canelo vs Munguia undercard results

• Mario Barrios defeats Fabian Maidana by unanimous decision
• Brandon Figueroa defeats Jessie Magdaleno by KO in round 9
• Eimantas Stanionis defeats Gabriel Maestre by unanimous decision
• Photos courtesy of Premier Boxing Champions

 

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Undefeated Austin Brooks to defend his WBA Continental USA Featherweight title vs.  2016 Armenian Olympian Aran Avagyan 

“EQC Fight Night”

June 15 at famed Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, WA

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

LOS ANGELES (May 14, 2024) – Toro Promotions, Inc., in association with Whitfield Haydon Boxing, returns June 15^th to the famed Emerald Queen Casino (EQC) in Tacoma, Washington, to showcase its powerful stable of professional boxers on the “EQC Fight Night” card.

Undefeated Austin Brooks (12-0, 5 KOs), fighting out of La Mesa (CA), defends his World Boxing Association (WBA) Continental super featherweight title for the first time, versus 2015 Armenian Olympian Aram “Warrior” Avagyan (11-1-2, 5 KOs) in an All-Toro 10-round main event.

Brooks, 28, captured his WBA Continental USA belt in his last fight, when he knocked out previously unbeaten (7-0) Jose Manuel Izaguirre in the seventh round this past February 10^th in Long Beach, California. Brooks, a southpaw, has fought only once at EQC, which ended in a six-round technical knockout of Anthony Chavez (11-3-1) on August 26, 2023.

Avagyan, now living in Burbank (CA), was a two-time bronze medalist in the European Championships as an amateur, in addition  to representing his country at the 2016 Olympics. His most recent fight, after nearly three years of inactivity, was on April 12^th in Colorado, in which his opponent, Juan Santiago, was unable to continue after three rounds. 

Red-hot, power broker and 2020 Ukraine Olympian, Tsotne Rogava (7-0, 7 KOs), continues his accelerated march to a world heavyweight rating, when the 6’ 5”, 270-pounder takes on battle-tested Jon Bolden (10-13-1, 7 KOs), of Seattle, in the eight-round co-featured event. 

A champion kickboxer who has successfully transitioned to boxing, the Georgia-native and Ukraine-raised Rogava has won his last four fights via first-round stoppages, and he’s only fought a grand total of nine rounds in seven pro bouts to date. Rogava now resides in Marina del Rey (CA), and he is trained by Hall of Famer Joe Goossen.

Toro Promotions has an imposing group of gifted and large heavyweight, including Rogava, Dante Stone (16-1, 11 KOs), Alexander “The Great” Flores (19-4-1, 17 KOs) and another rising prospect, Kingsley “The Black Lion” Ibeh (12-1, 10 KOs), who will also be in action on the June 15^th show.

Ibeh, who is a native of Nigeria who now resides in Phoenix, is a cousin of the retired, infamous heavyweight boxer Ike Ibeabuchi. The 6’ 4”, 300-pound Ibeh played football in college (Washburn U.) as well as professionally in the Canadian Football League.

Veteran mixed-martial-arts fighter Juan Torres (11-6-1, 4 KOs), the former Texas and ABF USA heavyweight champion, will challenge Ibeh in the eight-round Special Heavyweight Attraction.  

Undefeated Nicaraguan super featherweight prospect Nilo Guerrero (8-0, 1 KO), a 2016 Nicaragua Youth National Champion who lives in Coachella (CA), faces 60-fight veteran Diuhi “Elegante” Olguin in a six-round match. Guerrero, 23, skillfully uses his abnormal 6’ 1” height (and length) to a tremendous advantage thus far in the super featherweight division.   

Also scheduled to fight on the undercard in four-rounders is Hoquiam (WA) super welterweight Nathan “Superman” Stolen (1-0, 1 KO), another MMA fighter who has fought in the highly respected Bellator, vs. Julio Munoz, Jr. (0-0-1),  of Tucson, and Auburn (WA) lightweight Agustin Tovar (1-0) vs. Robert Jimenez (0-2), of Nampa, Idaho.

Card subject to change.

Tickets are on sale now for $70.00 and $45.00 and may be purchased online at https://emeraldqueen.com/boxing/ or by calling (253) 594-7777.  Tickets purchased at the Emerald Queen Shop are eligible for up to a 20-discount, plus no taxes or processing fees. Must be 21 years of age to attend. 

Doors open at 6 p.m. PT, first bout at 7 p.m. PT.

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Undefeated lightweight sensation Bader “The Master” Al-Dherat

To headline “Rising Stars Arabia 4” on May 25^th in Abu Dhabi

ABU DHABI (May 8, 2024) – The spotlight shines on undefeated Arabian fighters at the “Rising Stars Arabia 4” event, promising to be the most thrilling card yet. Bader “The Master” Al-Dherat (10-0, 8 KOs), the rising star of Arab boxing, will headline the fourth edition and most stacked top-to-bottom card to date of the “Rising Stars Arabia” series, on Saturday, May 25, at Space 42 Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Four scheduled 10-round bouts on the Rising Stars Arabia 4 (RSA4) card will be streamed live, starting at 8 pm UAEST, on DAZN and ESPN Knockout.

RSA4 is promoted by AAM Seddiqi Sports and hosted in Abu Dhabi in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.

The RSA series, the first of its kind in the relatively untapped boxing region of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as well as the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), is sanctioned by the Middle East Professional Boxing Commission and headed by Jose Mohen.

The 23-year-old Bader headlined the inaugural RSA event last September, when he stopped Jose Paez Gonzalez in the fifth round. The exciting knockout artist who gained invaluable exposure fighting on pay-per-view cards like Oleksandr Usyk-Anthony Joshua II and Jake Paul-Tommy Fury.

Al-Dherat (AKA Samreen) was a celebrated Jordanian amateur boxer, highlighted by his bronze medal performance at the 2018 AIBA World Youth Championships despite  suffering an arm injury. Al-Dherat’s dedication to his pro boxing career led him to relocate from his native Jordan to Dubai three years ago, where he could access the facilities to grow and improve as a professional.

In the 10-round main event, Al-Dherat will put his undefeated record on the line against Orlando Mosquera (13-2-1, 2 KOs), the former International Boxing Federation (IBF) super lightweight champion. Mosquera has already defeated a previously unbeaten prospect like Al-Dherat, 12-0 Ruben Nestor Neri Munoz, a year ago by way of a 10-round unanimous decision. Munoz is 10-1-1 in his last 12 fights.

Moroccan super featherweight Moussa Gholam (21-1, 13 KOs) has won two in a row since losing for the first time as a pro in December of 2022 to Elnur Samedov (14-1) by 10-round split decision. Gholam, who is a former WBC Youth Silver and WBO Inter-Continental super featherweight title holder, is fighting his way back into the top 15 world ratings.

Gholam faces Angel “Humildad” Rodriguez (21-3, 11 KOs), a former World Boxing Association (WBA) Fedecentro Lightweight Champion from Venezuela, in the 10-round co-featured event.

Undefeated Indian welterweight Faizan Anwar (17-0, 9 KOs) meets his toughest test to date when he takes on Murali Erdogan (15-2, 1 KO), a 2017 French National Champion, in a 10-rounder. The 22-year-old-Anwar, a slick southpaw who was the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in India, moved to Dubai in 2022 in order to enhance his boxing career as a member of Round 10 Boxing.

Another undefeated fighter, UAE super flyweight Sultan Al Nuami (11-0, 7 KOs), risks his undefeated record in a 10-round match versus Muhsin Kizota (20-4, 12 KOs), of Tanzania. The 30-year-old Nuaimi is a two-time national champion and the first boxer in UAE’s history to win a bout in the Asian Games.

UAE’s most experienced pro boxer, super featherweight Fahad “Kid Emirati” Al Bloushi (14-1, 3 KOs), will be riding a 13-fight win streak into his eight-round match against Ibrahim “The Puncher” Makubi (11-2-1, 6 KOs), of Tanzania.

Unbeaten Egyptian welterweight Marwan Mohamad Madboly (3-0, 2 KOs) steps up for a dangerous challenge against the experienced, southpaw Filipino brawler Rimar “Terminator” Metuda (17-8-1, 11 KOs), in a six-round fight. Madboy’s fellow countryman, super featherweight Mostafa Mohammed Fahmi Komsan (2-0, 2 KOs), throws-down with Hamza Rguibi (2-1, 1 KO), of Morocco.

Also fighting on the undercard, each in four-round bouts, is Kuwait super welterweight Eissa Eidan (1-0, 0 KOs) vs. Pakistan’s Shahzada Sohail (0-4), Syrian heavyweight Kenan Marai (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Afghanistan’s pro-debuting Ahmadzai Abdulahi, United Kingdom flyweight Tony “Lightning Junior” Curtis (6-1, 3 KOs) vs. India’s Ismailulah Khan (1-1, 1 KO), and Saudi Arabian super lightweight Sulaiman Abbar (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. V Bharany (3-1, 1 KO).

Card subject to change.

Western boxing promoters have been reluctant to promote Arab boxers, however, local promoter Ahmed Seddiqi’s vision and initiatives is changing that, and fight fans worldwide are discovering the developmental talent emerging from that region.

AAM Seddiqi Sports has been promoting and managing boxers in this region for 10 years and it has a growing stable  of more than 30 gifted regional and global talents. It’s event have included five world title shows that have been broadcast globally on ESPN, Sky Sports and other major networks.

Tickets to “Rising Stars Arabia 4” are on sale now at https://seddiqiboxing.com/tickets.

Leading up to the event, fans can find updates on the AAM Seddiqi Sports Instagram channel @seddiqiboxing and on seddiqiboxing.com

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TODAY: Pre-sale tickets for the biggest event in boxing this year will go on sale beginning at 10 a.m. PT/1 p.m. ET.

Two of boxing’s most exciting and popular superstars will share center stage as five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Monstruo” Benavídez compete in separate attractions Saturday, June 15 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. The two fighters will headline a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video in what will be the historic 100^th championship fight night at the popular sports and entertainment venue.
 
The undefeated three-division champion Davis will defend his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, while Benavídez is set to make his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title. This one-of-a-kind event will give viewers the unique opportunity to see two bona fide fan-favorites on the same night in high-stakes championship clashes.

Tickets for the live event go on sale Wednesday, May 8 beginning at 10 a.m. PT and will be available through www.axs.com. 
 
Pre-sale tickets will be available TODAY, Tuesday, May 7 from 10 a.m. PT to 10 p.m. PT through www.axs.com with the code: BOXING

Be one of the first to secure the opportunity to witness an epic event that you don’t want to miss! Click HERE for more details on Davis vs. Martin and Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk. 

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Ryan O’Rourke, Danny Gonzalez, Ronny Reyes and John McDonagh Highlight Packed Undercard This Saturday Night at Paramount

Undefeated Junior Younan Fights for Title in Main Event on “Rockin’ Fights 47”

Get your Tickets!

Huntington, New York (May 8, 2024)—A loaded undercard has been set for this Saturday Night’s “Rockin’ Fights 47” at The Paramount in Huntington, New York.

Star Boxing (Joe DeGuardia) has put together a terrific show to support the previously announced main event featuring undefeated super middleweight Junior Younan taking on Ricardo Luna in a WBA Continental Gold Title fight.

Topping the prelims will be Danny (“El Gallo”) Gonzalez against Danny Murray in a welterweight bout in their New York vs New Jersey showdown.

Gonzalez of Queens, New York is 21-4-1 with seven knockouts. The 34-year-old Gonzalez will be making his 13^th appearance at Paramount and has had thriilling battles with former world champ Chris Algieri (Madison Square Garden), Petros Ananyan (Barclays Center) and is recent victory over Keane McMahon on February 23 at The Paramount.

Murray of Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey is 7-7. The 32-year-old has a win over undefeated New Yorker Kenny Robles and is coming off a win over Vinnie Kirley on January 20. The bout will be six rounds.

Also seeing action is undefeated junior welterweight Ryan O’Rourke taking on Michal Bulik in a six-round bout in an international special feature attraction.

A young Irish prospect, O’Rourke (10-0, 3 KO’s) of Dublin, Ireland, will be making his second appearance at The Paramount. In his previous appearance at the storied Star Boxing venue, O’Rourke knocked out Dashaun Johns in seven rounds (May 13, 2023).

Bulik of Poland is 6-6 with one knockout. The 35-year-old Bulik will be making his American debut and hopes to bring home a victory in this special European bout between Ireland and Poland.

In another six-round bout, Ronny Reyes (4-0, 1 KO) of Manhattan, New York (Lower EastSide) takes on hard-punching Bronx based Yeuri Andujar (6-6-1, 4 KO’s). This fight has a Caribbean beat as both have proud Dominican Republic heritage and will be battling for pride in what figures to be an entertaining super featherweight contest.

John (Fighting Irish) McDonagh (1-0, 1 KO) of Queens, NY will take on Tevin Terrance (1-1-1, 1 KO) of Quebec, Canada in a four round super middleweight bout.

Ralph Clemente of nearby Ronkonkoma, Long Island, NY, will look to thrill the hometown fans in Huntington as he makes his pro debut against Kijonti Davis, New Orleans, Louisiana, who has 6 pro fights under his belt, in four round middleweight tilt.

Get your tickets now and join us at the Paramount Fight Night

If you can’t make it to New York, watch the fights live on StarBoxing.TV (available on website, Apple IOS, Google, Roku and other platforms. See link further below.

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Boxing Returns Saturday Night At Tropicana Atlantic City, Tickets on Sale Now

Professional boxing is making a triumphant return to the Boardwalk in Atlantic City on Saturday, May 11

After staging successful club shows in the Broadway district of New York City for the last year and a half, Larry Goldberg of Boxing Insider Promotions is coming back to his hometown. The scene is the Tropicana Hotel & Casino, where the showroom hosts a special card that features some of the finest young talent in New Jersey, New York and beyond.

Junior middleweight JUSTIN FIGUEROA (8-0, 6 KO’s) is an Atlantic City product, who is well-known to the public for his exploits not only in boxing but in other sports as well, particularly in football, where he starred at Holy Spirit High School and harbored thoughts of playing for a Division I program. Justin is also an active member of the Atlantic City Beach Patrol. 

As Figueroa progresses through the pro ranks, he intends, in his own words, to “put Atlantic City on my back.”

Figueroa’s May 11 opponent in the six-round fight is the very tough Antoni Armas from Maracay, Venezuela.

Junior featherweight JOHN LEONARDO (10-1-1, 4 KO’s) hails from Manalapan Township. He takes on FRANK GONZALEZ (12-5, 6 KO’s), who has been that distance in each of his last two fights. Gonzalez, who fights out of the Tampa Bay area, once competed for the WBO Latino belt as well as the WBA Fedecentro title in the bantamweight class.

In addition, legendary former heavyweight champion LARRY HOLMES will be on hand to meet and greet fans at the May 11 show. 

Here are the other bouts on the show:

8 Rounds — Welterweights

AVIOUS GRIFFIN (13-0, 12 KO’s), Chattanooga, TN vs. LESTHER ESPINO (8-5, 6 KO’s), Nicaragua

6 Rounds — Jr. Middleweights

DWYKE FLEMMINGS (6-0, 6 KO’s), Paterson, NJ vs. JONATHON HAMPTON (3-4, 1 KO) Gary, Indiana 

4 Rounds — Heavyweights 

PRYCE TAYLOR (3-0, 2 KO’s), Brooklyn vs. LAWRENCE KING JR. (2-1,1 KO), Rochester, NY 

4 Rounds — Middleweights

JACOB SOLIS (3-0, 3 KO’s), New York, NY vs. BRANDON MARTINEZ (1-3, 1 KO), Tucson, AZ

4 Rounds — Lightweights

JASON CASTANON (`1-0, 1 KO), Brooklyn, NY vs. KAMARI BURNSIDE (1-0, 0 KO), Las Vegas, Nevada. 

4 Rounds — Lightweights

KOBY WILLIAMS (pro debut) Brooklyn, New York vs. Kevin Hicks 1-2, 1 KO) Tazewell, Virginia

This is the first professional boxing show at the Tropicana in seven years. So you had better believe it will be a festive atmosphere. 

Tickets are priced at $60, $100, $150 and $200, and are available through TicketMaster (https://www.ticketmaster.com/boxing-insider-live-professional-boxing-atlantic-city-new-jersey-05-11-2024/event/02006076BA7B700C).

This event will also stream live and free of charge at BoxingInsider.com with Henry Deleon and Randy Gordon on Commentary. 

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Bryce Mills Returns to the Ring June 7 During 2024 International Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Weekend

SYRACUSE, NY (May 3, 2024) – Up and coming super lightweight prospect, Bryce Mills (15-1, 5 KOs), from Syracuse, NY, makes his way back to the ring on Friday, June 7, 2024, during the International Boxing Hall of Fame Induction weekend at the Turning Stone Resort & Casino in Verona, NY. Mills will square off against Jose Marruffo (14-13-2, 2 KOs)) from Sonora, Mexico, in a scheduled 6-round bout.

The event is being promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, promising an unforgettable evening of non-stop action. All the live coverage will broadcast on DAZN.

Mills, a popular figure in his hometown of nearby Syracuse, NY, will have a massive number of fans attending his fight. For Mills, fighting in his backyard once again is a tremendous blessing for his career.

“I’m beyond excited to step back into the ring in front of all my family and friends,” Mills said. “There’s nothing quite like fighting at home, and I can’t wait to put forth a great performance. To be fighting during the International Boxing Hall of Fame Induction weekend is something I will cherish for the rest of my life. I know there will be many Hall of Famer’s in attendance watching this fight, so I’m working hard in camp to be at my best. I’m grateful for the opportunity.”

Amer Abdallah, Mills’ advisor, believes that Mills is destined for greatness. As he is rapidly rising up the super lightweight rankings, Abdallah feels Mills is in a great position.

“Bryce Mills has all the makings of a future household name not only on the east coast, but in boxing period,” Abdallah stated. “He’s talented, dedicated, and hungry for success. With each fight, he’s getting better, and I’m happy with his progression.”

Mills is focused on the task at hand but is also eager to give his fans a night to remember. “I’m fully focused on the fight ahead, and I’m not looking past Marruffo,” Mills emphasized. “But I’m also looking forward to putting on a great show for all the fans who come out to support me. This is an opportunity to showcase my skills and entertain the crowd, and I plan to make the most of it.”

Promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Box Office, by phone by calling 800.771.7711, or online at Ticketmaster.com.

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Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna will fight for a second world title Saturday June 8th at Bally’s Atlantic City

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ – MAY 3 – On Saturday, June 8th 2024 Hall of Fame boxing promoter Kathy Duva and Main Events in association with Rising Star Promotions, brings World Championship Boxing to Bally’s Atlantic City presented by Trifecta Strong featuring #3 World Rated Middleweight and South Jersey’s own Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna (37-5-1 16KOs) will fight for the World Boxing Association (WBA) Gold Middleweight World Title against power puncher Juan Carlos “Merengue” Abreu (26-7-1 24KOs) of La Romana, Dominican Republic.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW 

Two additional title fights are scheduled for this blockbuster event including Rising Stars own #13 Rated Bantamweight Emmanuel “Salserito” Rodríguez (15-1 8KOs) will take on undefeated Khalid Twaiti (13-0 5KOs) for the WBA Continental America Latino Bantamweight Championship. Terell Bostic (11-2 1KO) squares off with Carlos Rosario (9-3-1 4KOs) for the vacant WBA Federcentro Lightweight Championship.

The undercard will include local match ups and regional fighters such as Brooklyn, NY’s Chiara Dituri (8-1 3KOs) Berlin, NJ’s Damian Tinnerello (1-0 1KO), Saleh Ali (1-1-1) fighting out of North Bergen vs. Lacey’s Michael Ruiz (0-2), Justin Palmieri (1-0) of Maple Shade vs. Vineland’s Marcos Lugo (0-2), in a pair of Pro Debuts Larry Desposito of Tuckerton vs. Saquan Anderson of Bridgeton and Piscataway’s Gabe Gerena (5-0 4KOs) vs. Dan Murray (7-7) of Lanoka Harbor.

Tickets priced at $250, $150, $120 & $75 available HERE

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Star Boxing’s super welterweight contender Wendy Toussaint will travel to the Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, South Africa to take on Shervantaigh Koopman

10-round IBO Intercontinental title bout on June 15, 2024

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK (May 3, 2024) Wendy Toussaint of Huntington, Long Island is 15-2, 7 KO and will be hoping to pick up a huge international victory that that will catapult him into the world rankings. Toussaint will travel to the Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, South Africa to take on undefeated Shervantaigh Koopman for the IBO Intercontinental Title.

Toussaint, a 31-year-old Haitian born American is well regarded in NY boxing. He has sparred with top NY talent and was the lead sparring partner for former World Champion Joe Smith Jr. In his last outing Toussaint won the WBA Continental USA title by knocking out Jermone Jones Jr. in three rounds (October 28, 2023) at The Paramount in Huntington, New York.

Toussaint was perhaps most impressive in his controversial technical split decision loss to hometown favorite IBF/USBA Champ Ardreal Holmes Jr.  Toussaint appeared to be winning the match and breaking down Holmes, when it went to the scorecards due to an accidental head butt.   The split decision was heavily booed by even the local Detroit partisan crowd.

Toussaint hits the road again for this major career defining fight.  Koopman who will be fighting in front of his hometown fans is 13-0, 9 KO and is the South African super welterweight champion.

“”Facing a dangerous opponent is just another step on my journey. I thrive on challenges, and this opportunity only fuels my excitement. In the ring, victory isn’t a possibility – it’s a promise. My name embodies success and on June 15th, I’ll prove it once again,” said Toussaint.

Star Boxing President Joe DeGuardia said: “I’m pleased we were able to provide Wendy (Toussaint) with this fight as it is exactly what he was seeking. Wendy has shown that he can compete with anyone and with a win on June 15^th I expect he will get a major opportunity and a significant world rating. Wendy will impress in South Africa, which has been a hot-spot for boxing for many years and I am grateful that Rodney (Berman), my friend for many years, and I were able to smoothly and swiftly make this fight possible.

The Koopman-Toussaint bout will be the co-main event that will feature South Africa’s rising star, Roarke Knapp (17-1-1, 12 KO) battling Jorge Garcia Perez of Mexico (29-4, 24 KO) for the IBO Super Welterweight World Title.

The show will be televised live on SuperSport, the premium television network in South Africa, and streamed live in the United States on StarBoxing.tv (show starts 7pm South African time; 1pm ET/NY).

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Heavyweight Quintin Sumpter Embraces the Spoiler’s Role

To challenge 12-0 Sonny Conto on June 15 in A.C.

Story By Alexander Rinaldi

QUINCY, Mass. (May 3, 2024) – Massachusetts heavyweight Quintin Sumpter (7-2, 4 KOs) embraces the spoiler’s role, and he will hit the road once again on June 15^th to challenge undefeated Sonny “The Bronco” Conto (12-0, 9 KOs) at the famed Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

“Quintin is a VERY underrated heavyweight in the Northeast,” his promoter (Granite Chin) Chris Traietti remarked. ”He took on an undefeated Tim Hatfield in his home state and beat him convincingly.  He then goes and takes on another undefeated heavyweight, Sean Bey, and drops him and in the eyes of many that saw it should have received the decision. Quintin is a very tough, athletic guy who comes to fight.  Conto and his team are about to have their hands full come June 15. I have all the confidence that Quintin is leaving Atlantic City victorious and fighting on a national network by the end of this year.”

The 35-year-old Sumpter, a former football player fighting out of Pittsfield (MA), upset then 3-0  Hatfield in his Rhode Island backyard on March 26, 2022, by way of a four-round majority decision, in which he won all four rounds on two of the judges’ scorecards, while the other questionably scored the fight, 38-38.

Sumpter almost spoiled another evening last August at Polar Park in Worcester (MA) when he took on 7-0 Bey in an eight-round bout. Bey won a controversial majority decision by scores of 76-74 twice and 75-75, which resulted in a chorus of boos from the partisan crowd, because Sumpter floored Bey, who was also penalized a point for pushing Sumpter.

Now, Sumpter is preparing to face a hyped Philly fighter, undefeated Conto, close to his Philadelphia home. Conto has been called a modern-day Rocky Balboa because both are heavyweights from Philadelphia who are Italian-American.

“I like being a spoiler,” Sumpter said. “I’ll fight anybody, anytime, and anyplace even if it’s in his backyard. That’s my mentality going into this fight, too. I don’t know much about him (Conto) other than he’s 12-0 with big backers behind him. He fought a couple of guys who were on the same promotion (Granite Chin) as I am, (Mike) Marshall and (Justin) Rolfe, so I have a feel for what he (Conto) brings.

“I’ll box him or brawl with him, whatever he wants. I’m going to pick him apart . A lot of undefeated fighters feel that they will bully their opponent, but I’m going to pick him apart. I’m fighting him in his backyard, and I like nothing more than silencing a crowd. What I do know is that he’s not going to be able to bully me.”

The 6’ 4” Conto, 28, was a solid amateur fighter who was runner-up in the 2018 National Golden Gloves Tournament. What is missing on his pro resume, though, is fighting more than six rounds and his fight with Sumpter is scheduled for eight rounds.

“I’ll go slow at the start and pick up the pace as the rounds go by,” Sumpter added. “Hopefully, him not going eight rounds before will play a part in this fight. Upsetting him will give me more opportunities and bigger fights. I’m going in with bad intentions.”

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Muhsin Cason Remains Undefeated with Stunning First Round Knockout

PHILADELPHIA, PA (April 30, 2024) – This past Saturday cruiserweight Muhsin “The Muslim Boxer” Cason (12-0, 9 KOs) remained undefeated with a stunning first round knockout over late replacement Lamont Capers (11-22-5, 2 KOs). The scheduled 6-round bout, promoted by Teflon Promotions, took place at the Liacouras Center in Philadelphia, PA.

Cason landed two vicious overhand rights, the first one landed flush on the face of Capers, sending him to the canvas in the early part of the round. The second one, identical to the first powerful overhand right, sent Capers to the deck for good, ending the bout in round one.

“This past Saturday I landed two really hard overhand rights that landed perfectly,” said Cason, who is advised by Amer Abdallah. “First one knocked him down, second one finished the job. It was all over in the blink of an eye. I wish Capers well in his career and I’m thankful that he stepped in the ring with me on late notice.”

“Muhsin Cason continues to show tremendous growth in his progression as a true cruiserweight.” Abdallah said, after the great performance. “Muhsin Cason continues to show consistent progression as a growing force in the cruiserweight division.” Abdallah said, after the great performance. “The plan is to get him right back under the lights as soon as possible and keep him busy. Each fight, he shows more experience, precision and overall ring generalship. I’m excited for what’s next.”

“The cruiserweight division is wide open and I’m hoping by the end of the year I’ll be in a position to fight for a regional title,” Cason concluded. “Next year I have a vision to be crowned world champion, God willing.”

__________Ryan Garcia Captures upset win over Devin Haney at the Brooklyn’s Barclays Center

But does not capture Haney’s WBC junior welterweight title because of coming in 33.2 pounds overweight

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

NEW YORK – Among the best statements made about the sport of boxing is that once the bell sounds one is entering a theater of the unexpected.

Boxing is not like any other sport. It is one where one single punch can change the course and outcome of a prize fight.

All one has to do is look at Mike Tyson’s first loss to James “Buster” Douglas. There were very few people that even bet against the ferocious Tyson. Well, after Tyson was counted out, millions wished they had.

The same goes for Ryan Garcia’s challenge of previously unbeaten Devin Haney’s junior welter title.

Although Garcia carelessly entered the bout 3.2 pounds overweight, thereby making the fight a non-title event, Garcia (25-1, 20 KOs) never let it get to him. He even actually paid Haney $1.5 million going into the bout due to a bet he they made with each other whereby Garcia would pay the champion $500,000 for every pound he weighed in at above 140. He also should have paid the crowd since they were somewhat cheated at no longer seeing a world championship bout.

Luckily for the fans at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center – they nevertheless witnessed a wonderful fight between two great fighters. And luckily for Garcia, he not only brought the extra weight into the bout, but he also packed along with him a blazing, blood curdling left hook. It was Garcia’s potent left hook that would ultimately spell doom to the champion and his followers.

Before the bout ended, Garcia would smash Haney to the canvas three times in rounds 7, 10, and 11, eventually securing a majority decision on the judges’ scorecards.

Although one judge surprisingly tabbed the bout an even 112-112, he was overruled by the other two judges who scored the bout 114-110 and 115-109, respectively, for Garcia, though Haney still held on to his WBC junior welterweight title due to Garcia’s weight problem.

From the sound of the bell for round one, Garcia threw the first gauntlet by banging Haney with a left hook startled and shook him to his core.

Like the esteemed fighter that he is, Haney (31-1, 15 KOs) shook it off and began boxing Garcia with swift jabs and straight right hands.

Besides skillfully boxing Garcia, in round three Haney appeared to put Garcia just a bit south of Queer Street after scoring with a jolting right to the jaw. Unfortunately, though he tried, the champion could not put the finishing punches together to end the bout early.

Then came round seven.

Garcia saw a quick opening and nailed Haney with a terrific left hook that dropped him hard and fast to the canvas. It was the first time that Haney had ever been dropped as a professional.

Unfortunately for him, it would not be his last.

“He caught me early when I was sleeping on him,” revealed Haney after the bout. “He caught me by surprise. I fell asleep on the left hook.”

Garcia attempted to follow up his advantage in round four, but Haney was able to ward him off with some slick boxing moves. By the round’s end the champion’s face was swollen and he was bleeding from the mouth.

Still Haney fought on and put on a pretty decent boxing clinic, though Garcia was able to avoid the punches with some sharp shoulder rolls and foot movement.

Though the fight was starting to look closer,  Garcia exploded with two more left hook howitzer type punches that cradled Haney the canvas in rounds 10 and 11, thereby securing himself a loss on the scorecards.

After the bout, a regal Haney declared he wanted a rematch – “I gave him a shot. It’s only right he gives me a shot back.”

Time will tell, though with Garcia’s inability to make weight it seems like he may have to drift up to the welterweight division, while Haney will most likely square once more against Vasiliy Lomachenko whom he beat for the undisputed lightweight championship in 2023.

On a final note, though Garcia had to hand over $1.5 million to Haney due to coming into the fight overweight, he won it all back and more by betting $2 million on himself at 6-1 odds, and winning $12 million in the process along with the millions he is expected to receive once the pay-per-view numbers come in. Overall, it would turn out to be the best night of his life.

Photo by Cris Esqueda/Golden Boy/Getty Images 

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Hall of Famer & Boxing Icon Roberto Duran Confirmed for Seventh Annual Box Fan Expo, During Cinco De Mayo Weekend

Saturday May 4, in Las Vegas

Box Fan Expo – the Largest Boxing Fan Event held in the U.S – the Ultimate Boxing Fan Experience

Tickets On-Sale Now at EventBrite

Story By Alexander Rinaldi

Las Vegas (April 29, 2024) – Hall of Famer and Boxing Icon Roberto Duran has confirmed that he will appear at the Seventh Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 4, 2024 at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with the mega fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Jaime Munguia, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.

Duran will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans alongside “Hands of Stone Entertainment” and “VEUIT” booth, during the fan event held over the Cinco De Mayo weekend.

The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, Canelo vs. Jacobs and Canelo vs. GGG III. 

Centered in boxing’s longtime home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. http://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

Duran will make his third appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Boxing fans will also have an opportunity to take pictures with this Boxing Icon also known as “Manos De Piedra” (“Hands of Stone”). 

Duran joins Oscar Valdez, Teofimo Lopez, Lennox Lewis, Devin Haney Mia St. John, Edgar Berlanga, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Roy Jones Jr., Erik Morales, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Juan Manuel Marquez, Michael Spinks, Claressa Shields and Marco Antonio Barrera as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.

About Roberto Duran

Roberto Duran, a true legend of the sport is widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers of all time. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame on June 10th, 2007. A versatile brawler in the ring, he was nicknamed “Manos de Piedra” (“Hands of Stone“) during his career. In 2002, he was chosen by The Ring to be the fifth greatest fighter of the last 80 years. The Associated Press voted Duran as the #1 lightweight of the 20th century. Many even consider him the greatest lightweight of all time. He held world titles at four different weights – lightweight (1972–79), welterweight (1980), light middleweight (1983–84) and middleweight (1989). He was the second boxer to have fought a span of five decades, the first being Jack Johnson.

About Hands of Stone Entertainment 

In 2019, Irichelle Duran daughter of boxing icon Roberto Duran, co-founded with her brother Victor, Hands of Stone Entertainment to continue their father’s legacy. Hands of Stone Entertainment is dedicated to the production of documentaries, reality shows, among others for streaming and tv platforms. Hands of Stone Entertainment has a solid foundation that is supported by its team, people from the sports industry. Some born into it and others with extensive renowned experience and background in marketing, business and television productions in recognized media networks.

About VEUIT 

VEUIT is the worlds first streaming media platform and social media platform built on WEB 3.0 and blockchain. Now, for the first time in history, both content creators and investors alike can finally see the true fruits of their labor, through clear and transparent blockchain-based smart contracts, that eliminate the possibility of unethical accounting, and provide a real-time, 100% accurate ledger of every transaction to anyone who uses their technology.

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan Manuel Marquez, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, David Benavidez, Teofimo Lopez, Andre Ward, Ryan Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr, Fernando Vargas, Rolando Romero, Sergio Martinez, Tim Bradley, Jose Ramirez, Shawn Porter, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Floyd Mayweather sr., Claressa Shields, Vinny Paz, Mia St.John, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Seniesa Estrada, Jorge Linares, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Brandon Rios, Anthony Dirrell, Danny Jacobs, and many more.

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next few weeks leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –  https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

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Dainier Pero Continues Undefeated Streak with Impressive First Round Knockout on DAZN

LAS VEGAS, NV (April 29, 2024) – Heavyweight rising star Dainier “The Fear” Pero (7-0, 5 KOs) showcased his dominance in the ring once again, securing a spectacular first-round knockout victory over Jose Mario Tamez (4-4, 1 KO) of Monterey, MX. With this win, Pero who is promoted by Amaury Piedra’s BoxLab Promotions, maintains his undefeated record, further solidifying his status as one of the most promising talents in the heavyweight division. The Most Valuable Prospects aired the fight live on DAZN this past Friday from the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, FL. 

In a display of precision and ferocity, Pero unleashed his trademark straight left to the head followed by a devastating right hook to the body, inflicting punishing blows on Tamez from the opening bell. Tamez showed a lot of heart but struggled to withstand the onslaught and the referee intervened, stopping the fight in round one to prevent further damage. Pero threw some really hard accurate punches, but it was a straight left to the mid-section that ended the fight.

Reflecting on his victory, Pero expressed his eagerness to face the top contenders in the heavyweight division, stating, “I had a great training camp and I’m ready to take on all the top prospects in the heavyweight division. Each fight is an opportunity for me to prove myself and continue my journey towards the top.”

“Dainier Pero is undoubtedly the best young heavyweight in boxing today,” said Bob Santos, who trains Pero in Las Vegas. “For a big man, his footwork is incredible. Not only does he have great feet, this skillset and power is off the charts. With each fight, he continues to prove why he’s considered one of the top prospects in boxing.”

“I’m incredibly grateful for the support of my team and the guidance from my promoter Amaury Piedra and Coach Santos, as well as Most Valuable Prospects,” concluded Pero, who was a standout amateur from Camaguey, Cuba. “Together, we’re shaping my career in the right direction, and I couldn’t be happier with the progress we’re making.” 

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Around the globe with Per-Ake

European Boxing Round-Up 

Story by Per-Ake Persson

Berlin, Germany. The second Agon Sports show in a week took place at the Agon Sportspark with Agon TV streaming it live on April 13.

In the main event this time heavyweights Granit Shala (15-1) and Oleksandr Zakhozyi (19-0) clashed for the vacant EBU title, and it ended in the second round with Shala floored twice and stopped. The 6 ft. 9 in.  Ukrainian giant was too big for Granit, who made the mistake of trying to trade with his opponent. 

In the co-main event middleweight Alexander Pavlov (20-3) stopped Thomas Piccirillo (13-1-4) in the first round to win the IBF I-C title. Piccirillo was caught against the ropes and stayed there until he was floored. He got up but was so wobbly the contest was abruptly stopped.

On the undercard former IBF middleweight champ Vincenzo Gualtieri (21-1-1) returned to action in his first fight since losing the title to Zhanibek Alimkhanuly and won a close call over Italian Joshua Nmomah (13-3) over eight rounds.

…………………………………

April 13 – Malmoe, Sweden. Swedish light heavyweight Oscar Ahlin (26-2) injured his left arm early in the fight against tough Czech southpaw Michal Ryba (20-11-2) but still managed to win a split ten-round decision.

Ryba was floored by a straight right in the sixth but got up and outworked the Swede in many rounds. The judges had it 97-93 and 96-94 for Ahlin and 96-94 Ryba. At the stake was the WBFed Intercontinental title.

……………………………………..

April 13 – Milano, Italy. The Art of Fighting staged a show at the Cloud Alliance with two fights for the WBC Mediterranean title on top.

At cruiserweight Jonathan Kogasso (11-0, 8 KO’s) stopped defending champion Goran Babic (8-2-2, 5 KO’s) from Sweden in the very first round. Babic was floored three times.

In the co-main event middleweight Dario Morello (23-1) retained the title with a close unanimous decision over Luca Chiancone (9-1-2). 

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Unbeaten Super Lightweight Kurt Scoby Signs Exclusive Glove Deal with ENGAGE

Story By Salvador Ramirez

NEW YORK, NY (April 22, 2024) – Undefeated super lightweight Kurt Scoby (13-0, 11 KOs) a power puncher hailing from the rough streets of New York City, has scored another victory outside the ring by securing an exclusive boxing glove deal with ENGAGE, the brainchild of former UFC two-time Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya and his respected manager Ash Belcastro.

Promoted by the renowned Lou DiBella’s DiBella Entertainment, Scoby’s latest venture marks a significant highlight in his promising career, aligning himself with a brand synonymous with quality and innovation in combat sports.

“I’m thrilled to be partnering with Engage for this exclusive boxing glove deal,” stated Scoby expressing his excitement. “The feel and performance of their gloves are exactly what I’m looking for when I step in the ring, and I’m honored to be associated with such a world-class team led by Adesanya and Belcastro.”

“We’re delighted to welcome Kurt Scoby to the Engage family,” Ash Belcastro, co-founder of Engage, stated about the collaboration. “His dedication and talent align perfectly with our brand philosophy, and we look forward to supporting him on his journey to the top.”

“This partnership with Engage is something we’ve been diligently working on and I’m glad we are moving forward,” said Brandon Stump, President of CTB Athletics who manages Scoby. “Israel and Ash are great human beings, and we couldn’t be happier to be part of Engage family. We’re confident that together, we’ll achieve great success both inside and outside the ring.”

Scoby is scheduled to face Dakota Linger (13-6-3, 9 KOs) of Buckhannon, West Virginia, in a scheduled 8-round main event bout this Friday at the Overtime Elite Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. This fight, promoted by OTX (Overtime Boxing), will be televised live on DAZN.

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Julien Baptiste vs. Ricky Ford could steal the show

 “Granite Chin Box Off” to Headline

4-fighter, 1-night super middleweight tournament

May 11, “Rumble at the Rink” at Quincy Youth Arena in Quincy, MA

QUINCY, Mass. (April 15, 2024) – A title fight between USBF Middleweight Champion Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste (6-4, 3 KOs) and Ricky Ford (5-1-2, 3 KOs) could very well steal the show on May 11^th as Granite Chin Promotions (GCP) presents “Rumble at the Rink” at Quincy Youth Arena in Quincy, Massachusetts.

Baptiste vs. Ford has all the makings for a potential “Fight of the Night,” matching a pair of New England 160-pounders who promise to have fans standing and yelling from the opening bell until the eventual end.

“What a fight this is going to be,” GCP president Chris Traietti predicted. “I knew all along I wanted to get Julien on this show and after competing at Madison Square Garden, I didn’t want to take a step back and do a ‘fluff’ fight. I wanted to challenge Julien and see what he has learned from that experience. I reached out to Ricky ,and he jumped on the chance. Ricky looked way better than I expected back in February in Bridgewater, you can tell while he might have been inactive competing, it was obvious he stayed in the gym. This fight alone will be worth the price of admission.”

Baptiste, fighting out of Woburn (MA), is coming off a solid fight at Madison Square Garden Theater, in which he lost a six-round decision to undefeated Isaah Flaherty (7-0, 3 KOs).

“I learned that I had a lot more in the tank than I had thought,” Baptiste said. “It was scheduled for eight rounds, but it was changed to six, but I had trained to fight eight. He won the fight within the limits, credit to Isaah. It was a great fight and I felt that I was turning things around, but that’s been my Achilles heel, I didn’t let loose until it was late.”

The reigning Massachusetts Middleweight Champion in addition to wearing the USBF crown, Baptiste respects Ford and is preparing for a memorable fight, which could catapult him into another high-impact fight like he recently had in MSG.

“It’s going to be a good fight,” he predicted. “He’s a good opponent. We both fought Ryan Clark in the amateurs, and each went 1-1. I wasn’t there live, but he fought Travis Gambardella to a draw when I was still an amateur, and I watched it afterwards. I’m sure that he’s going to bring it. He was out the past few years, but I do respect him as a game fighter, and for stepping up to fight me. He’s a great technical fighter who keeps distance and knows how to box.”

Fighting out of Claremont (NH), Ford was a 2012 New England Golden Gloves silver medalist who was inactive from late 2019 to his ring return this past February, when he knocked out Erick Matheus Alves in round three. After the fight, in the middle of the ring, Clark dropped to one knee and proposed marriage to his longtime girlfriend, Katie, who also boxed. Ford was undecided in terms of retiring or continuing to fight, explaining at the time that he’d likely fight again if the offer was good enough.

“There was a lot of emotion in my last fight, and I did look good,” Ford remembered. “People thought I was away from boxing for years, but I was always in the gym, and I do love boxing. I took time off because I have a family with kids, and a good job. I met Katie through boxing, and I thought my last fight was the perfect way to propose, because boxing is how it all started for us. I was out of the ring 4 ½ years and I knew it wasn’t going to be easy shaking off the rust. Nobody has ever pushed me to reach my full potential. I thought my last fight was a good way to end my career, but Chris (Traietti) called and asked if I’d fight Julien for his title. Let’s see how it goes, If I win, I’ll defend my title, and if it ends in a draw, we’ll have to do it again. This is boxing and one punch can change everything.”

Ford noted that he’s a relatively small middleweight who should really be fighting at junior middleweight or even welterweight. He’s excited to fight Baptiste and believes they may steal the show.

“It’s going to be one of those fights,” Ricky concluded. We have two different styles. He boxes more than me. I’ll give him that and in power, but I have better hand speed. I have a lot more to show to people who haven’t seen it in me, and a lot have forgotten that I had a lot of amateur fights. I was a four-time Northern New England champion and runner-up at the 2015 Ringside Tournament in Kansas. I’ve seen Julien fight and I respect him. I took the fight and I’m stepping up. He’s the perfect guy for me to fight because we both come forward. Right now, I’m at my strongest point.”

In an equally compelling match. undefeated Irish boxer Thomas “The Kid” O’Toole (9-0, 6 KOs) meets dangerous Russell Kimber (2-1, 1 KO) in a six-round bout for the vacant Massachusetts Light Heavyweight Championship.

The innovative one-night tournament, “Granite Chin Box Off,” is the event headliner that features a quartet of New England super middleweight fighters – Lynn’s (MA) James “Pitbull” Perkins (13-1-1, 9 KOs), Swansea’s (MA) Anthony “The Gentle Savage” Andreozzi (5-3, 2 KOs), Dorchester’s (MA) Bernard Joseph (6-1, 4 KOs), and Barrington’s (ME) Ryan Clark (4-5, 2 KOs) – who will  be matched (in a blind draw at the weigh in) in three-round bouts (4^th round of sudden death if needed in case of a draw) early in the evening with the two winners advancing to the five-round main event (6^th round of sudden death in the event of a draw) to determine the inaugural champion.

Additional matches will soon be announced.

Card subject to change.

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Ascending Irish welterweight Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan

Not looking past Lewis Ritson

May 25^th on DAZN from Leeds, UK

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

NEW YORK (April 15, 2024) –Undefeated Irishman Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (13-0, 10 KOs), the reigning World Boxing Association (WBA) Continental Welterweight Champion, is fully focusing on his next opponent, former British lightweight champion Lewis “Sandman” Ritson (23-3, 13 KOs), and not his rumored showdown later this year with Northern Ireland’s Lewis “The Croc” Crocker (19-0, 11 KOs).

Donovan vs. Ritson is the 10-round co-featured event May 25^th on a Matchroom Boxing card, headlined by a domestic clash between UK super lightweights Josh Taylor (19-1) and Jack Catterall (28-1), to be streamed on DAZN live from First Direct Arena in Leeds, United Kingdom.

The 25-year-old Donovan, who is now ranked No. 11 in the world by the World Boxing Association (WBA), will defend his title belt for the second time after a TKO win over William Andres Herrera (15-2) in his last fight this past January 27.

Donovan vs. Crocker has been percolating and if both fighters continue winning it will be one of the most anticipated 2024 fights in Ireland and the UK. The key is for both fighters to continue winning without a hiccup. Donovan understands that he needs to avoid any distractions as he prepares to fight Ritson, especially with the possibility of a future fight against Crocker as it continues to build exponentially into an epic super-fight.

“I do not look past any opponent,” Donovan said. “I know Lewis Ritson is a really good opponent for me at this stage of my career. I’m really excited to be ranked No. 11 in the world and I’m checking all the boxes in training to be ready for any fighter, Lewis first, and then we can move on to beating whoever my managers and promoter put in front of me. Ritson is a very good opponent for me. This is the fight I need, the challenge that will prepare me for bigger fights, especially against Crocker, or anyone else. For me, it doesn’t matter who the opponent is, I will be ready mentally and physically, and just be me.

“This is the biggest test of my career, every fight from now is like my world title fight. I believe he will throw caution to the wind early in the fight, but I will match him for everything he does, and I’m going into the ring to win every battle, every moment, every round, and every fight.”

Ritson, also a former WBA Inter-Continental Super Lightweight Champion, lost his last fight on March 4^th, stopped by a body shot from Ohara Davies (24-2) in the ninth round. Donovan has finished-off his last two opponents with crushing liver punches.

“Under the trusted eye of trainer and co-manager, Andy Lee, I am confident Paddy will be primed and ready to showcase his boxing skills and punching power on May 25^th,” commented NYC-based attorney Keith Sullivan, Donovan’s co-manager. “This is Paddy’s breakout year.  I don’t envy anyone we match him against, because he’s on a mission to fight for a world title.  He’s hungry, and he’s earned it, but first he has to handle business in the ring with a very formidable Ritson.”

Ideally, Paddy Donovan would like to put “Sandman” Ritson to sleep, then and only then, look toward Crocker, or whomever else stands in his path to a world title.

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THREE ACTION-PACKED TITLE SHOWDOWNS HIGHLIGHT

CANELO VS. MUNGUIA PBC PAY-PER-VIEW ON

PRIME VIDEO UNDERCARD SATURDAY, MAY 4 FROM T-MOBILE ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

Top Welterweight Mario Barrios Defends 147-Pound Title Against Hard-Hitting Fabian Maidana in Co-Main Event

All-Action Brandon Figueroa Puts Featherweight Title on the Line Against Former Champion Jessie Magdaleno

Undefeated WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis Duels Two-Time Olympian Gabriel Maestre

In Pay-Per-View Opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

Canelo Promotions Presents Clash of Mexican Superstars

 As Pound-for-Pound Great Canelo Álvarez Duels

All-Action Star Jaime Munguía Headlining a

PBC Pay-Per-View Event on Prime Video

Blockbuster Pay-Per-View Card Also Available

Live on DAZN.com

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

LAS VEGAS – April 9, 2024 – Three high-stakes matchups featuring some of the sport’s most exciting fighters will round out a stacked pay-per-view lineup as Canelo Promotions presents a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

In the co-main event, former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios will defend his Interim WBC Welterweight Title against Argentine power-puncher Fabian “TNT” Maidana, while hard-hitting former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa puts his Interim WBC Featherweight Title on the line against former world champion Jessie Magdaleno in pay-per-view action. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT is undefeated WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis battling the unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to purchase the PPV via DAZN.com. On top of those options, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions, TGB Promotions, in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.

“Saturday, May 4 will deliver a worthy pay-per-view undercard of toe-to-toe clashes leading up to the all-Mexico headlining clash between Canelo Álvarez and Jaime Munguia,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Cinco de Mayo weekend is a crown jewel in the boxing calendar, and with this jam-packed lineup of action fighters entering the ring at T-Mobile Arena, fans are in for non-stop entertainment once again on this PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video.”

**MARIO BARRIOS VS. FABIAN MAIDANA**

The 12-round co-main event will see Mario “El Azteca” Barrios make the first defense of his Interim WBC Welterweight Title against Argentina’s Fabian “TNT” Maidana, the younger brother of legendary action fighter Marcos who will look to add to his family legacy in his first world title opportunity.

A former world champion at 140-pounds, Barrios (28-2, 18 KOs) earned a career-best victory in his last outing and stamped his place as a top 147-pounder by dropping Yordenis Ugas twice last September on his way to a unanimous decision. The 28-year-old hails from San Antonio, Texas and now trains in Las Vegas under the guidance of top trainer Bob Santos. He won a 140-pound world championship in September 2019, using his aggressive style to edge out Batyr Akhmedov and earn a unanimous decision. Barrios lost the super lightweight title in another action packed, highly competitive bout, as he was defeated by three-division and five-time world champion Gervonta Davis in June 2021.

“I’m thrilled to be back in the ring for the co-main event of the biggest Mexican fight in history and during Cinco de Mayo weekend,” said Barrios. “Fabian Maidana is a tough warrior like me, so the fans are definitely in for an exciting fight. Defending my title is priority number one, and I’m going to do it with intelligence and bad intentions. Everyone knows that when I step into the ring, I leave it all in there. This will be no different. On May 4, the fans can expect a Mexico vs. Argentina war.”

The 31-year-old Maidana (22-2, 16 KOs) enters this fight on a four-bout winning streak, including three 2023 triumphs highlighted by a unanimous decision victory over Israel Lopez in November. A native of Margarita, Santa Fe, Argentina, Maidana hopes to follow in the footsteps of his older brother and former two-division champion Marcos. He’s fought professionally since 2014, following up a strong amateur career by winning his first 16 pro fights. He will return to fight stateside for the first time since 2019, after spending much of his early career fighting in the U.S., including a 2018 knockout of former title challenger Andrey Klimov.

“I’m very happy to be fighting on this card against a great champion like Mario Barrios,” said Maidana. “We come to win and give our best to the mecca of boxing, Las Vegas. The world knows my brother beat Floyd Mayweather on Cinco de Mayo, and I plan to do the same against Barrios. I’m fighting for my people in Argentina, and I’m coming to win.”

**BRANDON FIGUEROA VS. JESSIE MAGDALENO**

The pay-per-view lineup will also feature the return of former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa as he defends his Interim WBC Featherweight Title in a 12-round bout against the former 122-pound world champion Jessie Magdaleno.

The 27-year-old Figueroa (24-1-1, 18 KOs) most recently picked up his interim title in his last bout, beating former world champion Mark Magsayo via unanimous decision in a Fight of the Year candidate in March 2023. It was his second fight since a 2021 Fight of the Year against Stephen Fulton Jr., which some observers thought ended in controversy after the majority decision loss for Figueroa. A native of Weslaco, Texas, Figueroa’s relentless pressure and youthful enthusiasm helped him become the first person to defeat former division champion Luis Nery in their championship clash prior to the Fulton fight. Figueroa added to his family’s legacy by capturing the WBC 122-pound world title against Nery, joining his brother Omar Figueroa Jr., who previously held the WBC Lightweight World Championship.

“I’ve been staying ready, just patiently waiting for my opportunity, and now I can’t wait to get back in the ring on May 4,” said Figueroa. “Magdaleno is a great fighter and he’s a former world champion for a reason. I know I have to be at my best. I’m just hungry to get back into the ring and keep boxing exciting with my fights and my fighting style.”

A Las Vegas-native, Magdaleno (29-2, 18 KOs) will look to rebound from a decision defeat in his last fight against current featherweight titlist Raymond Ford. Prior to the defeat, Magdaleno had put together four-straight victories since moving up to featherweight in 2019. The 32-year-old became a world champion in 2016 with a dominant unanimous decision victory over future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire, and successfully defended the title with a 2017 knockout of Adeilson Dos Santos. Magdaleno also comes from a boxing family, as his older brother Diego was a longtime contender, while his younger brother Marco also fought professionally. 

“This fight is everything for me,” said Magdaleno. “There are people who think I’m an underdog against Figueroa. But I’d remind those people of one thing…I was an underdog when I became world champion for the first time, and I’m ready to do it again. On May 4 you will hear ‘and the new!’”

**EIMANTAS STANIONIS VS. GABRIEL MAESTRE**

A come-forward technician, the undefeated Eimantas Stanionis will make the first defense of his WBA Welterweight Title when he takes on fellow unbeaten Gabriel Maestre in a 12-round showdown that opens up the pay-per-view card.

Representing his native Kaunas, Lithuania, Stanionis (14-0, 9 KOs) has made the most of the promise he showed when turning pro after fighting for his country at the 2016 Olympic games. The 29-year-old captured his interim belt in his most recent outing, defeating the previously unbeaten Radzhab Butaev via a hard-fought decision in April 2022. Stanionis blasted through a slew of veteran welterweights on his way up the ladder, including a knockout of Justin DeLoach and a 12-round unanimous decision over Thomas Dulorme.

“I’m so excited to get back in the ring, I feel like a kid in a candy store who gets to choose any kind of candy he wants,” said Stanionis. “This is especially exciting for me because I am a big fan of Canelo Álvarez. I love watching his fights and as a kid, I dreamed of fighting on Cinco de Mayo in front of all those great Mexican fans. It motivates me even more to give them a great fight. I know that Gabriel Maestre is tough and has power. We fought in the amateurs and I know it’s a great matchup of styles. I’m going to bring the action and so will he. You can definitely expect fireworks on May 4.”

A two-time Olympian for his home country of Venezuela, Maestre (6-0-1, 5 KOs) delivered a dominant display last August as he blasted out the then-unbeaten rising prospect Travon Marshall in round two. His pro career has followed an extensive amateur run that included victories over Brian Castano, Carlos Adames, Alexander Besputin, Oscar Molina and Brian Ceballo. He made his U.S. debut with a controversial decision victory over Mykal Fox in August 2021 before fighting fellow unbeaten Taras Shelestyuk to a draw in March 2022 and defeating former two-division champion Devon Alexander in April 2023.

“I’ve wanted to fight Stanionis for years and get revenge from our amateur match,” said Maestre. “It was a tough close fight and I’m ready to face him again for another war. We are ready for a great fight and to leave the ring with my hand raised. May 4 will be a historic day for me and Venezuela.”

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“The Quest for the Best”

Bringing boxing back to the fans…

April 27, 2024 – Casino Miami Jai-Alai, Miami, FL

UNDEFEATED FEATHERWEIGHT MACHADO ADDED TO “QUEST FOR THE BEST” FIGHT CARD ON SATURDAY, APRIL 27

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

MIAMI, FL (April 9, 2024)— One of the most exciting featherweights in the country, Neslan Machado, has been added to Don King’s “The Quest for the best” fight cards at the Casino Miami Jai-Alai, on Saturday, April 27.

Machado, who is a Cuban sensation out of Miami, FL, has put together a perfect 20-0 record with nine KOs. He will be fighting a 10-round special attraction in an evening featuring three championship bouts.

Fans will also get to see undefeated and exciting twin brothers out of Harrisburg, PA—the Perez brothers.

One of them, Antonio Perez, already has a belt that he will be defending in the WBC Int’l Lightweight Championship. Antonio is a perfect 9-0 with 5 KOs. His twin brother, Angel, is looking to eventually be a champion in his own right.  He also is 9-0 with 7 KOs and he will be featured in an eight-round welterweight attraction.

The Saturday night lineup for this highly anticipated event features some of the most formidable contenders in the sport.

WBA Continental Americas Middleweight Champion Ian Green (18-2, 12 KOs) has been a fan favorite at Casino Miami. The Paterson, NJ native aims to win his seventh straight fight as he takes on Roy Barringer (10-4, 6 KOs), a hard-hitting challenger from Toledo, OH.

Miami, FL’s own Ahmed Elbiali (23-1, 18 KOs), who holds the NABA/NABF Light Heavyweight Championships, will show his explosive power as he takes on undefeated Sergio Jimenez (13-0-1, 11 KOs) from San Pedro, CA, in a showdown that promises fireworks from start to finish.

The third championship fight will feature WBC Int’l Lightweight Champion Antonio Perez (9-0, 5 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA risks his title against Los Angeles’ Oscar Acevedo (9-1).

The evening of boxing also will feature four undercard fights.  DeVon Williams (4-0, 4 KOs) of Ft. Lauderdale, FL will be fighting for the WBC Youth Intercontinental Super Lightweight championship. 

Antonio Perez’s twin brother, Angel Perez (9-0, 7 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA will be featured in an eight-round welterweight attraction. A 10-round bantamweight fight will feature Boynton Beach, FL sensation Lawrence Newton (16-0, 7 KOs) challenging Luis Tenorio (10-0, 8 KOs) of Tulua, Colombia and the final undercard fight is a six-round welterweight attraction will feature Semajay Thomas (11-1, 8 KOs) of Chicago, IL.

Tickets for this sensational evening of boxing are now on sale, starting at just $25. Don’t miss your chance to witness the action live at the Casino Miami Jai-Alai. Ringside tables are available for $1,500, while side floor seats can be purchased for $50. Floor ringside seats are priced at $100, and ringside seats are $300. Secure your seats now at www.playcasinomiami.com.

For those unable to attend in person, the event will be broadcast live on DonKing.com, FITE.TV, and ITUBE247.com, ensuring that fans worldwide can experience the thrill of “The Quest for the Best.”

Join us on Saturday, April 27, for an unforgettable night of championship boxing, presented by the one and only Don King. For more information and updates, visit www.donking.com.

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Atlantic City Boxing is Back!

NYC’s hottest club boxing series is coming May 11 to Tropicana Hotel/ Casino. It’s a stacked card. Tickets are now on sale at Ticketmaster!

Story by Robert Zappala

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (April 9, 2024) — Boxing Insider Promotions is bringing boxing back to the Boardwalk at the Tropicana Hotel/Casino in Atlantic City. The date is Saturday, May 11, and begins at 7:30 PM in the Showroom.  This is the Atlantic City debut for the company, which has been promoting shows at the legendary Sony Hall in New York City.

Some of the participants include: 

Junior featherweight JOHN LEONARDO (10-1-1, 4 KO’s) of Manalapan Township, NJ will be in the eight-round main event. Leonardo was a decorated amateur, winning three New York Metro championships and a New Jersey Golden Gloves title. The 23-year-old, nicknamed “Bodyshot,” last fought back in August, when he won an eight-round decision over Dominique Griffin.

Junior middleweight JUSTIN FIGUEROA (8-0, 6 KO’s) is a 2017 graduate of Holy Spirit High School in Atlantic City, where he excelled in football and wrestling. But he was also an experienced amateur boxer, who holds a win over 2022 National Golden Gloves champ Nasheed Smith. He just fought on March 30 with a six-round decision win over Christian Aguirre in San Antonio. The charismatic Figueroa, who spent quite a bit of time as a lifeguard with the Atlantic City Beach Patrol, dances “The Worm” across the ring after his victories. 

Heavyweight prospect PRYCE TAYLOR (3-0, 2 KO’s) of Brooklyn has a big upside. He only began boxing in 2016, but just three years later he made it to the semifinals of the National Golden Gloves. He was also runner-up in the U.S. Championships in 2021 and 2022. Taylor, who is involved with the Team Combat League, was last seen in action at Sony Hall on March 7, winning a four-round decision over Antonio Torres. He’ll be in another four-rounder on May 11. 

Middleweight JACOB SOLIS of New York (3-0, 3 KO’s), in a four-round fight, doubles as a trainer at Breadwinners Boxing in Manhattan. He is a huge fan favorite, taking a lot of female followers with him, and made his pro debut at Sony Hall last December with a sensational third-round KO of Tevin Terrance. 

Middleweight JUAN PIERRE VALENCIA makes his highly-anticipated pro debut in a four-rounder. A native of Ecuador who grew up in Spain, he now resides in Irvington, NJ. Valencia won the 2023 New Jersey Golden Gloves and then proceeded to reach the semifinals of the National Golden Gloves. He’s quick, powerful and a great prospect.

And stay tuned for future announcements. 

Boxing has not been seen at the Tropicana for seven years, so this is special for Atlantic City native Larry Goldberg (CEO of Boxing Insider Promotions), who is the most active promoter in New York City. He’s bringing his exciting series home. 

Tickets are priced at $60, $100, $150 and $200, and are available through TicketMaster (https://www.ticketmaster.com/boxing-insider-live-professional-boxing-atlantic-city-new-jersey-05-11-2024/event/02006076BA7B700C).
 
This event will also stream live and free of charge at BoxingInsider.com

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Anthony Joshua brutally knocks out and beats the hell out of former UFC champion Francis Ngannou

Story by Alex and John Rinaldi

Saudi Arabia, March 8. Finally. Before a packed house at Riyadh’s Kingdom Arena, Anthony Joshua decided to unleash his big right hand and the results were rack and ruin.

For a fighter who lost two straight fights to Oleksandr Usyk by trying to emulate a boxer instead of a slugger, Joshua went back to his slugging roots in a devastating fashion. After three years, Joshua finally got the memo – boxers box and punchers punch.

Joshua appeared to have crawled out of the shell of a boring stand-up boxer to do what he does best – which is to land his hammer-like right to the jaw of an opponent, something that his fans have been waiting for.

Of course, Francis Ngannou, the UFC champion was certainly no Smokin’ Joe Frazier, but he did last the distance against Tyson Fury, though most pundits believed that Fury trained for that fight as if he was going to take a spot of tea and some crumpets at a London Grand Hotel.  

The difference was that Joshua, 252.4, unlike Fury before him, came to fight – and fight he did.

Ngannou, meanwhile looked to have some confidence in himself and appeared to love the fanfare as he came into the ring like a dandy clad in white and pink trunks with gold frills along with matching white and pink gloves.

Once the bell sounded for the start of round one, Joshua, wearing white trunks and brown Everlast gloves, went after Ngannou, 272.4, as if the Cameroonian fighter had stolen his last loaf of bread.

After a feeling-out session in the first two minutes of round one, Joshua loaded up and struck Ngannou with an explosive right to the jaw. The punch landed square on the chin like a grenade and immediately dropped Ngannou to the seat of his trunks, as his gold frills waved like a kite caught in a hurricane on his way down to the canvas.

Ngannou looked both hurt and confused and barely got up at the count of eight. To his credit, he did try to fight back and amazingly managed to make it to the sound of the bell.

In round two, Ngannou appeared to have blown off the cobwebs in his head, and valiantly tried to get back into the fight with some jabs and right hands of his own.

Little did he know he was headed for an ambush.

With less than a minute remaining in the round,  Ngannou dropped his left after a weak jab, and Joshua fired another missile-like right that smashed Ngannou down for the second time in the bout.

Seeing this, the mostly pro-Joshua crowd flew up onto their feet as Ngannou was sent sailing to his now familiar place on the ring floor. This time he was visibly shaken and barely made the count of ten when he rose weakly at the referee’s count of nine.

Again, for the second time in the bout, he bravely rose, but this time his eyes were filled with fear as he looked across the ring at Joshua as if he was climbing into the cage with a lion.

Before he could get his senses back, Joshua, with the skill of a trained assassin, drilled Ngannou with a vicious right to the sweet spot of the jaw. Ngannou was unconscious upon impact as his legs oddly bent and collapsed beneath him like a folding chair being put away after a wedding.

In a split second, Ngannou crashed hard to his back and lay motionless on the ring floor as if he was blown away by a howitzer during the Battle of the Somme.

The referee swiftly and immediately waved the fight over, knowing full well that Ngannou was never going to rise even if he counted to a thousand.

When asked after the fight about his knockout punch, Joshua responded, “It is what it is.”

With the impressive win, Joshua, the number 3 heavyweight in boxing, increased his record to 28-3 with 25 knockouts in dropping Ngannou to 0-2 as a boxer.

Ngannou, who pocketed about $20 million for the fight, far more than his highest UFC purse of $600,000, exclaimed, “I didn’t feel the punch,” referring to the last blow of the fight, is scheduled to return to MMA later this year with PFL.

Joshua, who earned around $60 million for the fight, said he wanted to fight the winner of the Usyk-Fury fight and said, “I just want to fight.”

Fury, who is scheduled to meet Oleksandr Usyk this upcoming May for all of boxing’s heavyweight laurels, was ringside for the fight, and had some kind words to say about Ngannou.

“There’s a lot of people who have not got the guts to go and chase their own dreams,” said Fury. “And it’s usually people who are not successful who hate on very successful people. So, for people who want to criticize Francis Ngannou for getting knocked out try boxing yourself. It’s a tough game. I would just say to Francis that he believed in his dream and followed it. He made a sh-t ton of money, which is fantastic to support his family. And he had a great journey. Keep going if he wants to box. He’s still undefeated as a champion in MMA. He can go back into MMA and destroy that world again.”

Fury also caught up with reporters after the event concluded and decided to throw a little bit of shade at Ngannou after all.

“It was a rude awakening for Ngannou,” said Fury. “You get a bit cocky like he did, and it was what it was. He got knocked out, and that’s what a boxer should do to an MMA fighter.”

After the fight, Anthony Joshua led the A-listers turning up at the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix on Saturday as he enjoyed a day at the races just a day after his amazing KO win over Francis Ngannou. 

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Teofino Lopez outduels Jamaine Ortiz in decision win in successful defense of WBO junior welterweight championship

“The Takeover” retains jr. welter title over slick challenger

Story by Joseph Catena

 

Las Vegas, Nevada. Teofino “The Takeover” Lopez wants to bring entertainment back to boxing. A master showman, the WBO jr. welterweight champion entered the ring at Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas against challenger Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz with a circuslike atmosphere.

Literally.

The 26-yeard-old from Brooklyn, NY, was accompanied by clowns on stilts, a juggler, and a sword swallower, among others. His gaudy top hat and red blazer trimmed in black and gold, along with his aforementioned entourage, made for quite a sizzling sideshow. It was, however, far more grandiose than his narrow 12-round unanimous decision over Ortiz, who frustrated the champion from the opening bell.

Ortiz (17-2-1, 8 KO’s), used a southpaw style and constant movement to foil the hard-hitting Lopez, and never allowed him to establish any serious momentum. The challenger, 139, set the tone in the first round as he repeatedly circled his foe and danced, while flicking out stiff right jabs at the aggressive champion. Lopez assumed the role of stalker but could not cut the ring off to negate Ortiz’s activity and ring science.

During the third round, the champion landed a blow to the midriff in the early going. Ortiz remained technical and boxed. Any time Lopez landed a clean shot – which was rare – the impact was nullified as “The Technician” backed away. Ortiz landed an inside uppercut later in the round, which drew a laugh from the champion, and maybe from some of the clowns on hand.

Lopez (20-1, 13 KO’s) found some brief success in round four with a left hook to the face. Much to his dismay, he was unable to follow up with any further damage, “The Takeover” decided to back up in lieu of pursuing his floating foe, and he subsequently waved Lopez to draw him into a brawl. The challenger refused the bait and landed a quick combination of his own as well as a right hook. Neither man landed any severe blows, and neither could assume total control over the other. Ortiz, of Worcester, MA, stuck with his game plan of moving and boxing, while the New Yorker doggedly followed him, hoping to nail him.

An early exchange in round six quickly devolved into more of the same: Lopez chasing and Ortiz escaping. In the final 10 seconds of the round, Lopez missed his target with a pair of right hands and gave a verbal lashing to the challenger for not engaging in a brawl. In the seventh round, the fight took a brief dramatic turn. The champ landed a right to the abdomen, and shortly afterward, he leaned in while throwing another punch. While doing so, he inadvertently butted Ortiz, who immediately began to bleed from a slice on his left eyelid. Though accidental, it was Lopez’s most effective moment up to that juncture of the match and caused referee Harvey Dock to pause the action. This was Lopez’s best round, and he even landed a pair of rights to the chin after the action resumed, and he ended the round with a glancing right uppercut that made Ortiz bleed from the mouth.

It appeared as though Lopez had finally narrowed the distance on his foe in round eight, and Ortiz, 27, moved less. By round nine, the cut on the eyelid was no longer a factor, and “The Technician” was back to dancing. During the final three rounds, each junior welterweight had an occasional moment of success, but neither could land a game changing punch. Judges Tim Cheatham and David Sutherland, both scored it 115 to 113 and Steve Weisfeld tallied 117 to 111. The USA Boxing News scored it a draw at 114 to 114.

It was Lopez’s first successful title defense, albeit a frustrating one, against a crafty foe, who refused to be taken over by any means.

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3 Division World Champion & Hall of Famer Marco Antonio Barrera Confirmed for Seventh Annual

Box Fan Expo, During Cinco De Mayo Weekend,

Saturday May 4, in Las Vegas

Box Fan Expo – the Largest Boxing Fan Event held in the U.S – the Ultimate Boxing Fan Experience

Tickets On-Sale Now at EventBrite

Las Vegas (February 15, 2024) – Three-division world champion and Hall of Famer

Marco Antonio Barrera has confirmed that he will appear at the Seventh Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with a mega fight that will take place later that evening in Las Vegas, featuring boxing star Canelo Alvarez.

Barrera will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over the Cinco De Mayo weekend.

The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, Canelo vs. Jacobs and Canelo vs. GGG III. 

Centered in boxing’s longtime home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. http://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

Barrera will make his fifth appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Barrera will also have merchandise to sell for fans to enjoy. Boxing Fans will also have an opportunity to take pictures with this boxing legend also known as the “Baby Faced Assassin”.

About Marco Antonio Barrera

Barrera is a Mexican former professional boxer who competed from 1989 to 2011. He held multiple world championships in three weight classes, including the WBO super bantamweight title three times from 1995 to 2001; the WBC super featherweight title from 2004 to 2007; and the IBF super featherweight title from 2005 to 2006. Additionally, he held the IBO featherweight title in 2001; the lineal featherweight title from 2001 to 2003; and the Ring magazine featherweight title from 2002 to 2003. Barrera is well known for his trilogy with fellow Mexican legend Erik Morales, as well as his duology with Manny Pacquiao, and rivalry with Juan Manuel Marquez. ESPN ranked Barrera as number 43 on their list of the 50 greatest boxers of all time. Barrera was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2017.

About Box Fan Expo

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport.

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan Manuel Marquez, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, David Benavidez, Teofimo Lopez, Andre Ward, Ryan Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr, Fernando Vargas, Rolando Romero, Sergio Martinez, Tim Bradley, Jose Ramirez, Shawn Porter, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Floyd Mayweather sr., Claressa Shields, Vinny Paz, Mia St.John, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Seniesa Estrada, Jorge Linares, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Brandon Rios, Anthony Dirrell, Danny Jacobs, and many more.

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next few months leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –

https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

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DeCubas Sr. The Mastermind Behind Resurrecting Roberto Duran’s Legendary Career

Story by Jacob Sites

Miami, Florida (December 3, 2023) – In the world of boxing, where legends are born and legacies are carved in history, there are few promoters whose names resonate through the ages. Among them stands Luis DeCubas Sr., a veteran boxing promoter whose career spans over four decades, marked by the iconic journey alongside one of boxing’s most icon fighters, Roberto “Manos de Piedra” Duran.

Duran, hailing from Panama City, Panama, emerged as one of the most revered boxers in the sport’s history, with an impressive record of 103 wins, 16 losses, and 70 knockouts. However, it was DeCubas Sr. who orchestrated the revival and elevation of Duran’s career, promoting some of the most historic fights that defined the boxer’s legacy.

One of the pivotal moments came when Duran faced Iran Barkley, a bout that saw Duran clinch the WBC middleweight title by a split decision. DeCubas’s strategic promotions and management played a crucial role in resurrecting Duran’s career during this fight, marking a triumphant return to the top tier of boxing.

“It was incredible to see Duran win the middleweight title against Iran Barkley, wow that was a monumental moment in my career,” stated DeCubas who was just nominated for induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. “We took that momentum and parlayed his remaining fights into a very lucrative journey to end his career.”

DeCubas’s partnership with Duran extended to some of the most electrifying fights in boxing history. He promoted Duran’s historic third match against the legendary “Sugar” Ray Leonard, a showdown that captivated the world. Their collaboration also witnessed two intense encounters with Vinny “Pazmanian Devil” Pazienza, showcasing Duran’s resilience and skill inside the ring. The alliance between DeCubas and Duran was further solidified through two remarkable fights against Hector “Macho” Camacho.

“Working with Roberto Duran was an honor and a privilege,” said DeCubas Sr. as he reflected on the incredible journey he encountered alongside Roberto Duran, as he shares his sentiments about the experience. “It wasn’t easy guiding Duran’s career, there was a lot going on behind the scenes that no one can imagine. When you’re dealing with an iconic fighter like Roberto Duran, you must have a strong will to keep everything intact. Promoting his final days as a boxer was truly remarkable.”

DeCubas’s expertise in navigating the complex world of boxing promotion, coupled with Duran’s raw talent and determination, resulted in millions of dollars earned for both parties. Their collaboration stands as a testament to the power of a promoter-athlete partnership and its ability to carve out moments that transcend sport.

Till this day, the friendship of Luis DeCubas Sr. and Roberto Duran, who was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2007, remains strong. Their partnership stands as a testament to the heights that can be reached when talent, loyalty, and astute promotion converge is executed in the squared circle.

 

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Check out the Famous Boxing Quotes Page

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Undisputed Super Middleweight Champion Canelo Alvarez wins unanimous decision win over Undisputed Junior Middleweight Champion Jermell Charlo

By Alex and John Rinaldi

Before a sell-out crowd at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas fan favorite and undisputed super middleweight champion Canelo Álvarez once again poured some sweat, punching, and ring generalship together to further cement himself as the one of the best fighters in the world by outpointing and outboxing the very talented Jermell Charlo over twelve rounds to retain his super middleweight titles.

Although Charlo was the undisputed junior middleweight champion and a great fighter in his own right, the moving up of two weight classes clearly showed in his performance. Instead of putting on a successful offensive boxing exhibition, Jermell, wearing black trunks with silver sparkles and silver gloves, appeared outgunned and outmanned by the talented multi-champion Canelo and was never really in the fight.

While Canelo, wearing purple trunks with gold trim and purple and gold gloves, managed to hurt Charlo throughout the bout, the challenger’ s punches barely dented the Mexican superstar’s defense or hurt him in any way at all.  Though he bravely fought back and exhibited some clever and talented footwork, Charlo simply did not land enough blows to even come close to winning the bout.

Canelo also realized early on that Jermell (35-2-1, 19 KO’s) could not hurt him and, as a result, barely ever relented from his offensive game plan or backed away from cutting off the ring on his fleet-footed opponent.

“I’m a strong fighter all the time, against all the fighters,” said Canelo. “I’m a strong man. Nobody can beat this Canelo.”

Luckily for Charlo, he had nothing to lose fighting Canelo, 167 ½, since his junior middleweight belts still remained intact with the loss. Better yet, he also earned somewhere in the neighborhood of $6 million for his effort, which might have been the highest purse in his career.

Though Jermell, 167 ½, connected at times with some quick jabs and right hands, Canelo never gave Charlo a chance to breathe or ever take control of the bout. This burned true especially when Alvarez, a 5-1 favorite, connected with nearly every single body shot he threw. The effect of which was apparent as Charlo was reduced to the most part to becoming a defensive fighter with literally no chance of winning the fight,

Though Las Vegas is a city where longshots can become rich winners, and where bettors sometimes overcome the odds, while miracles abound like gold from a wishing well, luck was no lady for Charlo this rough Vegas night.

On the contrary, Jermell’s chances ran out quicker than a bullet through a sandwich, as his dreams of Lady Luck turned out to be nothing more than a date with a cruel spinster.

“I just felt like I wasn’t me in there,” said Charlo. “I don’t make excuses for myself, so it is what it is. I take my punches and roll with it. It’s boxing.

After Canelo took the first four rounds of the fight, Jermell came back to win the fifth round and it began to seem that Charlo was about to make a fight of it and possibly find that elusive pot of gold.

Then came round seven.

In the first minute of the round, Canelo attacked Charlo against the ropes with both fist flailing and landed a jarring overhand right that staggered Jermell and forced him to take a knee. 

To his credit, the brave Charlo quickly rose from the canvas and with true grit retaliated for the remainder of the seventh round as he valiantly tried to stage a comeback. Jamell even landed some of his best shots of the fight up to the bell, while Canelo, by failing to go all out for a KO, saw his big KO win disappear into the ether of the Vegas night.

Sadly, it turned out to be Charlo’s last stand and a crossroad in the fight. For Charlo never truly turned the tide of the bout and Canelo never again came close to scoring a knockout.

“Truthfully, I could feel the difference in the weight,” said Charlo. “I picked up 14 pounds. I am undisputed in my weight division. You fall short sometimes, but you just have to keep on pushing. My roll don’t stop right here. I’m proud of myself. He hit me with some hard shots. I thought I got mine off. I’m the little Charlo and I represent that.”

By the fight’s end Canelo captured the scorecards by tallies of 119 -109 and 118-109 (twice). Canelo also dominated the CompuBox stats with a 134 to 71 advantage in total punches landed, including over 42 body shots.  

“We worked on attacking the body,” said Canelo. “We know he’s a great fighter. He knows how to move in the ring. We worked on attacking the body for three months. For three months in the mountains without my family, without everything.” 

Unfortunately for the fans, instead of trying for an impressive KO win, the championship rounds saw Canelo cruise to the final bell as his loyal following cheered him on with chants of “Canelo, Canelo.”

“I still love boxing,” said Canelo . “I love boxing so much. Boxing is my life. Boxing made me the person I am today. That’s why I love boxing so much. And I love boxing so much because of my fans, too…Cinco de Mayo I’ll face whoever. I don’t care.”

In the co-main event, top super welterweight contender Erickson “Hammer” Lubin (26-2, 18 KOs) won a unanimous decision over the previously unbeaten Jesus “Mono” Ramos Jr. (20-1, 16 KOs), winning on all three cards by scores of 117-111, 116-112 and 115-113. 

“We went in there to feel him out and box him and beat him to the punch with counters because of his strength,” said Lubin. “It was working all night. I was sticking and moving. It was ‘Boxing 101’.”

“I felt like I did a little more than him, but that’s alright,” said Ramos. “Congratulations to Erickson Lubin. He was sharp. He had a good game plan. Congratulations to him, it’s back to the drawing board. We’ll come back.”

With the big win, Lubin restored himself once again into contention for another world title fight.

“My jab was landing all night,” said Lubin. “He had all his success when I was on the ropes. My coach was telling me to stay off the ropes, so I was trying my best to do that. He didn’t show it too much, but I buzzed him a few times.”

Although many on hand felt that Ramos did enough to win, he simply did not capitalize when he had a chance to do so and allowed Lubin to gain the nod of the judges.

“I felt like I was just trying to show different dimensions to my game and not just come forward,” said Ramos. “It is what it is. I’ll take this loss, come back and learn from it. I learned not to let it go to the judges. Maybe I don’t put it on cruise control next time. A little more pressure. I’ll learn from this. It was a good experience.”

With the victory, Lubin believes he could find his place once more in the talent-ridden 154-pound division. 

“This shows that I’m no gatekeeper,” said Lubin. “I’m one of the top dogs in the division. I need a title shot. If those belts present themselves at 154 pounds, I’d like to fight for those belts.”

Notwithstanding, when the dust settled, the night still belonged to Canelo Alvarez.

With the victory he advanced to 59-2-2 (39 KO’s) and pocketed upwards to $18 million for his efforts. He remains the cash cow in boxing and at age 33 and still appears to be on top of his game.

Photos courtesy of Premier Boxing Champions.

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The USA Boxing News Book Review

TONY CANZONERI

The Boxing Life of a Five-Time World Champion

By Mark Allen Baker

McFarland & Company, Inc., Publishers

 (www. mcfarlandpub.com) – 224 pp

Reviewed by John Rinaldi and Alex Rinaldi

Sadly, every day the pages of history of championship pugilists from yesteryear do not just fade away, they disintegrate into a pile of forgotten ashes. The exploits of heavyweight rulers from over 60 years in the past may still be remembered, such as Rocky Marciano, John L. Sullivan, Jack Johnson, Joe Louis, Jack Dempsey, Max Schmeling, James J. Corbett, Max Baer, James J. Braddock, and some others, but epic stories of the title holders of the lighter weights have been relatively obliterated.

Luckily for boxing purists and sports lovers, Mark Allen Baker has a knack and innate talent to somehow resurrect them and pump life into their legends.

One such ring immortal whose story has been reanimated by Mr. Baker for boxing fans of today is Tony Canzoneri. Every time we think we know about a fighter; Mr. Baker gives us hundreds more details that capture the imagination of the reader. In his newest tome, TONY CANZONERI – The Boxing Life of a Five-Time World Champion, the author takes the reader on a fistic journey through the Roaring Twenties and throughout the Great Depression. It is unbelievable that Canzoneri (1908-1959) was not only engaging in professional prizefighting while underage, but he was also fighting for a world title when he was only a mere 18 years old!

Canzoneri’s first shot at world title honors was when he faced the veteran NBA Bantamweight Champion Bud Taylor on March 26, 1927. Although he lost by a 10-round draw, it was a tremendous fight, and one of many that Mr. Baker has creatively brought to life in the pages of his newest book.

Mr. Baker’s style is that of a literary archeologist as he tirelessly unearths thrilling details that few authors do. Tony Canzoneri has become the latest boxing archeology discovery, like the findings of King Tutankhamun!

Even before we came out with the award-winning publication, The USA Boxing News, we were avid readers of books about the wonderful sport of boxing. Unfortunately, many times we would read a book and learn very little about the older fighters and their ring battles since a lot of writings were either simply rehashed versions of the same old lifeless stories or literally glossed over entirely. Even when they did talk about the fights the exciting details were either left unmentioned or often just skimmed over.

Not so with Mr. Baker.  When one peruses his works, vast knowledge of the subject is learned. The boundless information is not just focused on the book, in this case the immortal triple champion Tony Canzoneri, but of all the men he encountered in the roped square. Canzoneri faced 18 world champions and nearly every contender from the bantamweights all the way to the welterweights. Names of Billy Petrolle, Kid Chocolate, Barney Ross, Jimmy McLarnin, Lou Ambers, Johnny Jadick, Battling Shaw, Jackie “Kid” Berg, Johnny Dundee, Al Singer, Philly Griffin, Sammy Mandell, Benny Bass, Andre Routis and the aforementioned Bud Taylor are revivified back to life by lightning through the pages of Mr. Baker’s book.

Canzoneri was a masterful boxer who compiled a remarkable 137-24-10 (44 KO’s) record. Unbelievably, Tony was only stopped once in his career, and that was on a third-round TKO by the fists of welterweight KO artist Al “Bummy” Davis in his last fight on November 1, 1939, at Madison Square Garden.

In a book full of highlights, we enjoyed reading Tony’s battles with Jimmy McLarnin, Barney Ross, Bud Taylor and Andre Routis. You can feel the punches landing and hear the crowd screaming with excitement.

Who would have thought that following his esteem boxing career, Canzoneri would become a popular vaudeville and nightclub comic as part of a comedy team with Joey Adams and Mark Plant?

This is the type of book that once you read through it, you will go back and pore over various chapters again and enjoy the prizefighting adventures of Canzoneri.

If you are a boxing fan who yearns to learn something new and enjoy stories of fistic history, this is the book to read. It will also make a great Birthday, Hanukkah, or Christmas present.

This book is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

On a personal note, our grandfather Alex Giglia and his brothers Nick Giglia and Charlie Giglia use to frequent Tony Canzoneri’s Bar and Grill and eventually became great friends with him. For years they use to talk about him as one of the greatest fighters they ever saw. One aspect of his bar that they recalled was the huge photo of Canzoneri in his fighting prime that hung in his establishment with the words “This is Me” below it.

Thankfully, Mr. Baker has brought one more great fighter such as Tony Canzoneri back to life.

Other wonderful books by Mark Allen Baker include WILLIE PEP – A Biography of the 20^th Century’s Greatest Featherweight, The Fighting Times of Abe Attell, LOU AMBERS – A Biography of the World Lightweight Champion and Hall of Famer, The World Colored Heavyweight Championship, 1876-1937, CONNECTICUT BOXING – THE FIGHTS, THE FIGHTERS AND THE FIGHT GAME, Between the Ropes at Madison Square Garden, and Battling Nelson – The Durable Dane.

Mr. Baker’s books can be purchased in paperback and Kindle versions on Amazon, in paperback and Nook Book versions at Barnes and Noble bookstores, Barnes and Noble’s website, and at bookstores around the globe.

On a side note, we were very touched by the author’s mention of his recently departed brother Matthew Robert Baker. For those who have lost a loved one, it welled our eyes up into tears.

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A Roughrider in and out of the Ring

Former Light Heavyweight and Cruiser King

Virgil “Quicksilver” Hill

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

Virgil Hill fought his way to the championship stage more than once, becoming both light heavyweight and cruiserweight champion multiple times. His determination, passion, and inspiration for the sport of boxing landed him the coveted North Dakota Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award, the state’s highest commendation for its citizens. Virgil Hill is the 48^th recipient of the award.

According to the state of North Dakota, the award was established during the 1961 Dakota Territory Centennial. The award recognizes North Dakotans who have been influenced by the state in achieving national recognition in their fields of endeavor, thereby reflecting credit and honor upon North Dakota and its citizens. And this distinction can be seen in Virgil Hill.

 “Quicksilver” was born in Missouri in 1964, but raised in Grand Forks and Williston, North Dakota. It was in the Peace Garden State where he fell in love with the sport and dreamed of fighting his way to the top. Virgil started by winning a silver medal in the middleweight division during the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. And that was just the beginning.

Virgil earned his way to the rings in Madison Square Garden, Atlantic City and Las Vegas. He became a five-time world champion, setting the record for the number of light heavyweight title defenses and was a first-round inductee into both the National Boxing Hall of Fame and International Boxing Hall of Fame. He holds a remarkable career professional record of 51 wins, 7 losses, and 23 wins by knockout.

Hill never ducked anyone in his era and fought the likes of Roy Jones Jr., Bobby Czyz, Donny Lalonde, Fabrice Tiozzo, Lou Del Valle, Frank Tate, Dariusz Michalczewski, Adolpho Washington, Leslie Stewart, Thomas Hearns, Jean-Marc Mormeck, and Henry Maske, and those battles are arguably some of the most memorable in the light heavy and cruiser divisions. North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum chose Virgil for many reasons, but Hill’s constant honor to his past and history set him apart.

 “His journey from a talented amateur boxer to renowned professional champion and role model for youth exemplifies the power of dedication, determination and a strong connection to one’s roots,” said Burgum. “His impact extends far beyond the boxing ring, making him a champion not only in the sport but also in his commitment to his community and the causes he holds dear.”

According to the state, Hill proudly represented his home state and Native American heritage in all walks of life. The former champion enjoys a close relationship with and the support of MHA Nation in North Dakota. In fights in North Dakota, across the United States and around the world, Hill carried the North Dakota state flag into the ring while wearing a tribal headdress. Thousands of North Dakotans packed venues in Bismarck, Minot, Grand Forks, and Fargo for his home state fights to witness Hill’s impressive feats in the ring. Crowds turned out in North Dakota arenas to witness Hill’s 13 successful defenses of his WBA light heavyweight title. Virgil ended his career with “One Last Stand” in Bismarck at the Civic Center on February 28, 2015, where he won by a 2^nd Round TKO against Jimmy Campbell.

“My whole life has revolved around everything I learned as a kid in North Dakota and trying to pass it on to the next generation,” said Hill, “It’s a huge honor, and I appreciate everyone in North Dakota so much. This award is bigger than any title, any belt, or any medal. To be acknowledged by my home state is amazing. My heart will always be in North Dakota.”

Governor Burgum says the award will be presented later this year with Hill in person at a date and location to be announced soon.

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Road Trip to Manassa, Colorado – The Birthplace of Jack Dempsey

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

Photos by Jackie Rinaldi and Joseph Rinaldi

To really experience what the United States has to offer, I suggest you simply get into your car and drive. Whether you go by yourself, with your family or a friend, it is a life-changing experience. My family members are typically my road trip pals. We pick a destination, pack some of our favorite snacks, and hit the road.

Thanks to my dad and road trip pal, John Rinaldi, and constantly moving for my job as a TV news director, I just needed to cross one more state off my list to visit all 50 states: New Mexico. This summer, I did just that. My mom and I flew to Denver and drove south to New Mexico. The adobe buildings, southwestern food and stunning views were amazing, but one stop is a must, especially for boxing fans: Jack Dempsey’s Birthplace Museum.

You are probably thinking, Jack Dempsey is the Manassa Mauler from Manassa, Colorado. That is not New Mexico; however, it lies on the border between the two states. So, my mom and I took the 2-hour drive from Santa Fe, NM to Manassa, CO.

The drive itself is breathtaking. We saw wildlife, like wolves and pronghorns, and we saw just how beautiful the desert can be. Once you crossed into Colorado, the mountains came up on both sides of our car and we found ourselves in the small town of Manassa.

In Manassa, we found our way to the museum and met the curator, Michelle Richardson. She has been managing the museum for years and has a deep family history to Manassa. Michelle, along with her mother and grandmother even met the boxing giant in their small town. One parade memory also ended with a sweet kiss from the champ himself to her grandmother! He was the champion of the world, but to everyone in Manassa and the valley region of Colorado, he was their hometown hero.

The museum dedicated in 1966 is actually the cabin where the legendary former heavyweight king was born and raised. The house was moved only a few blocks to the location it stands today. Within the four walls of this cabin, there are artifacts from his early days in Colorado to his championship battles in the ring.

 

Dempsey was heavyweight champion from 1919 after knocking out Jesse Willard until 1926, when he lost to Gene Tunney. He reigned king of the ring at the height of boxing during the Roaring Twenties, when the glitz and the glamour of Hollywood and athletes ruled the American popular culture. Jack Dempsey was the best and most popular.

In this museum and around it, you can take a step back in history. Follow his humble roots and heritage and behold how he became the man and the pugilistic immortal he is today. From his Cherokee background to his immediate family, he lived and fought with his heart on his sleeve in Manassa and beyond.

There are heroes and then there are Jack Dempseys. The sport of boxing really catapulted into a world-wide phenomenon thanks to Dempsey.

From the boxing gloves to the shoes he wore, you can see how tough some of those fights were. The gloves and scuffmarks from those famous and historical fights are enough to really comprehend just how tough he was, as well as his iconic competitors.

Remember, heroes do not just pop up in our big cities. Sometimes, they are made in the Heartland by people like you and me. It is important to remember where we come from and just how vital it is to honor and visit the many communities in this country. The hardworking men and women from East to West and in the Heartland work every single day inspiring others. Jack Dempsey once said, “A champion is someone who gets up when he can’t.” He learned that from his childhood in Manassa.

So, if you need a place to explore in our country, look to Colorado and the New Mexico border. There is a ton to see already, but really explore these towns, like Manassa, because these are the places where champions are made every single day.

The Jack Dempsey Birthplace Museum is located at 412 Main Street in Manassa, Colorado. The visiting hours are 10-5 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. It is closed during lunch from 1:00 to 1:30. Admission is free. The contact number is (719)-843-5207.

Tell them you heard about the museum on The USA Boxing News Website.

 

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Rising Star Promotions provides fans with another punch-packed event at their Boardwalk Boxing Show on the historic Atlantic City Boardwalk

Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna, Kristian Prenga and Justin “Time” Figueroa headline night of fisticuffs

Story by Janine Rinaldi

Photographs by John Rinaldi

Atlantic City, NJ. In this day and age when it is near impossible to get a bang for your buck, Rising Star Promotions promoted another exciting Boardwalk Boxing Show at the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall.

What was a guy to do on Saturday night? See the opening of Barbie in the theaters? We don’t think so. While that film spent 1 hour and 54 minutes putting down men, the smart ones journeyed to the vibrant Atlantic City Boardwalk to watch hard-punching contenders and up-and-coming boxers provide thrills.

There is something magical that greets fight fans walking down the famed Boardwalk in Atlantic City on their way to a fight. 

Unlike going to Madison Square or some other urban venue, the incoming crowd making their way to Boardwalk Hall passes past the Atlantic Ocean as the waves crash against the shore and the aroma of salt water permeates through the night’s air, beckoning the crowd like a talisman of the wonderful and exciting things to come.

And come they did.

By the time they entered the historic Boardwalk Hall, the enthusiasm and eagerness of the fans got one’s blood pumping and this feeling was surely not lost on the fighters they come to see.

What is great about Rising Star Promotions, is that they are expert matchmakers. No one wants to view a boring chess match, but instead they want to see prizefighters fighting their hearts out and giving their all. That is what happened on a hot, muggy night in Atlantic City this past Saturday on July 22. All six bouts on the card were rip-roaring fun.

The first bout of the evening featured former Female Amateur Champion Sharahya “Pueblo Rican” Taina-Moreu (1-0) making her pro debut against Janaisa Morandin (0-2), of Florianopolis, Brazil.

Right from the start, Taina-Moreu, of Albuquerque, NM, came out stabbing Morandin, 139, with jabs to the face, while Sharahya moved gracefully around the ring as her opponent tried in vain to counter with right hands.

Round Two saw Taina-Moreu, 137, directing her gaze to Morandin’s body with hammering left hooks. Near the end of the session, Sharahya attacked with both fists and stunned Morandin with an overhand right.

Continuing with her assault, Sharahya suddenly dropped Morandin with a right the head. Luckily for the Brazilian the round ended just as she got to her feet.

The fourth and final frame saw Taina-Moreu try her best for a knockout, but the gutsy Morandin would not have any of that and began to trade leather with her rival. Sharahya welcomed the exchanges and the two battled until the bell signaling the conclusion of the bout.

The score was unanimous at 40-35 for Taina-Moreu.

“I am so happy to get this first bout out of the way. It was really cool fighting here in Atlantic City,” said Taina-Moreu.

The second bout of the evening featured another fighter making his pro debut when “Dangerous” Daniel Gonzalez KO’d Michael “The Ninja” Ruiz in the second round.

Gonzalez, of Iselin, NJ, and Ruiz, of Lacey, NJ, came out swinging at the bell. Both were looking for their first pro victory and they slugged away going punch for punch. Midway through the opening frame, Gonzalez, 134, was finding his range with right uppercuts that began to score with some efficiency.  Ruiz, 134 ½, took the shots well and battled back with rights and left hooks.

The action continued in the second round as the two stayed in close and punched away. Gonzalez then fired a terrific right hand that sent Ruiz down to the canvas. Michael bravely was able to get up, but the moment the referee let the fight continue Gonzalez gave his rugged opponent little room to breathe as Ruuiz was soon covered in a blanket of leather.

Within moments, Gonzalez unleashed a vicious left hook that smashed into Ruiz’s jaw that sent him down for the count. The end came at 3:00 of Round Two.

“I tried too hard in the first round and my corner told me to settle down and pick my shots. That is where I started running those big shots,” said Gonzalez (1-0, 1 KO). “It was great getting this win out of the way, especially at such a famous arena like Boardwalk Hall. I had a lot of supporters on hand to watch me.”

Ruiz fell to 0-2 with the loss.

The knockouts continued in the third bout of the card when Nadim Salloum (11-1, 5 KO’s) finished off Antonio Ocles (12-13, 3 KO’s) in the second round of a scheduled six-rounder.

Salloum, of Lebanon, but now residing in Brooklyn, NY, is a good boxer with some pop in his punch. Against Ocles, of Quito, Ecuador, Nadim was able to stab his crouching opponent with jabs and stood him up with jolting uppercuts. Ocles, 171, also remained aggressive and heartily swapped blows with Salloum, 168. It was a spirited session that the fans enjoyed.

Nadim upped the ante in Round Two and overwhelmed Ocles with jolting left hooks and overhand rights. Antonio was too busy trying to block and avoid shots, neither which he was successful at, to launch an assault on his own. When the frame was drawing its conclusion, Salloum nailed his adversary with a spearing left and a crackling right to the jaw.

Although the bell sounded to give Ocles a respite, his corner had seen enough and would not allow him to come out for the third round.

With the win, Salloum improved to 11-1 (5 KO’s), while Ocles tumbled to 12-13 (3 KO’s).

The Main Event of the night featured Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna continued his quest for another shot at the middleweight championship. On May 1, 2021, LaManna was TKO’d by Erislandy Lara for the vacant WBA title, and since then he has won six fights in a row.

In his third-round demolition of the gutsy Juan Manuel “El Principito” Witt, the Millville, NJ native may have given his best career performance to date.

Going into the bout, Witt at 33-1-2 (25 KO’s) looked to be a formidable opponent for LaManna, who was obviously the crowd favorite. At the bell, “Cornflake” confidently came out and repeatedly speared his rival with jabs to the face. Witt, of Campana, Argentina, kept trying to move out of way, but LaManna, 160, never gave him a chance to get set as he whacked the Argentine fighter with overhand rights and jarring left hooks.

The battering continued into Round Two as Witt, 36, was quickly becoming a South American punching bag. Seeing this, LaManna unloaded every weapon of his arsenal as he blasted away with both fists on his foe.

At the bell for the third session, LaManna, 31, stormed out and pummeled away at the brave Witt. Seeing that he was hurting his adversary, LaManna threw an overhand right that exploded on the head of Witt, 158 ½, and sent him crashing to the canvas. As referee Ricardo Vera counted, Witt managed to get to his feet. As he dizzily looked forward, another overhand right soon found its mark and exploded on his head, sending him down for the second time. Once again Juan Manuel showed true grit as he heroically rose off the floor. Although he was outmanned and outgunned, the Argentinian had packed a suitcase full of guts and bravely waded forward to confront his baby-faced executioner.

LaManna wasted little time and fired buck shots of leather until his overhand right soared forward and bashed into Witt’s skull, dropping him for the third time!

As Witt was trying to see through an ocean fog in his head, referee Vera had seen enough and ended the beating at 2:47 of the third round.

“It feels great to put on such a performance,” said LaManna (36-5-1, 15 KO’s). “I’m ready for anybody. I don’t think there’s anybody better than me. There’s nothing that can stop me. Witt was very durable and awkward, and I expected him to come forward like a tough Argentinian, but I think my size overpowered him and I took control from the gate.”

With the win, LaManna captured the WBA Fedelatin Middleweight Championship.

LaManna is a colorful fighter with a lot of charisma.  Ranked at #4 by the WBA, he may not have to look too long to get another shot at Lara’s crown. It would sure be a big fight for Atlantic City. Lara has not fought since May of 2022, so he just may be up for a rematch.

The fifth fight of the evening was a “Special Attraction” 6-round bout featuring hometown fighter Justin “Time” Figueroa taking on Jeff “Relentless” Lentz, of the neighboring town of Egg Harbor Township. Figueroa is a lifeguard on Atlantic City Beach, and goes into every contest gunning for a knockout, which makes him a crowd-pleaser.  Wearing playing card-designed trunks, Justin came out attacking with his usual intent to draw down the curtain early with his big right hands, although Lentz scored well with counter shots.

In the second and third rounds, Figueroa, 153, was effective with his popping jab and right-hand smashes. He also appeared to have embraced his opponent’s “Relentless” nickname for he never stopped punching away.

After taking three rounds of a leather pounding, Lentz, 155, began to get more aggressive and engaged Figueroa in spirited exchanges as the audience cheered on the action in Round 4.

By the fifth round, the chants of “Justin-Time!”  floated in the arena compelling Figueroa to shift into fifth gear. Though he saved people in real life as a lifeguard, he was far from saving Lentz as he began punishing him with both fists flailing. To his credit, the gallant Lentz just kept coming forward and soon turned the bout into an action-packed fight, which Figueroa was more than happy to engage in as he continued to bounce his fists off the noggin of his Egg Harbor foe.

In the sixth and final frame, the two boxers made a tremendous effort as they both exchanged punches in a thrilling slugfest. Nevertheless, Figueroa never stopped trying for a knockout with his constant right-hand bombs. At the end, the crowd gave them a tremendous ovation.

The judges scored the fight for Figueroa by tallies of 59-55 (twice) and 58-56. The USA Boxing News had Figueroa winning at 59-57.

Although he lost, Lentz (5-2, 1 KO) gave a good account of himself and should be a welcome guest back at the Boardwalk Hall.

 “Going six rounds with a worthy opponent was phenomenal,” said Figueroa (6-0, 5 KO’s). “The crowd was awesome, and it was good to get the six rounds. I knew Lentz was a worthy opponent. I am happy I got the win. Every fight is like a show, a holiday, and I feel like I’m a pay-per-view fighter. It is great fighting in front of all my people.”

The final bout on the card was another “Special Attraction” that featured Albanian heavyweight KO artist Kristian Prenga, who now resides in Edgewater, NJ. His victim tonight was Santander Sligado, of Arboletes, Colombia.

Prenga is a thrilling fighter that just goes for the KO right at the start. Against Sligado, 236 ½, Prenga went after him swinging for the fences as the bell rang for the opening session. As the Albainian flags waved in the crowd, Prenga, 261, was waving his fists with deadly intentions at his opponent. Then seemingly out of nowhere, Prenga exploded with a right-hand that landed square on Sligado’s chin and dropped him to the canvas on the seat of his trunks like a sack of rice. Barely stirring, the Colombian fighter was counted out at 1:22 of Round 1.

Sligado fell to 32-16 (26 KO’s).

It was another devastating performance by Prenga, who improved to 14-1 (14 KO’s) and looks to be a rising star in the heavyweight division.

“I wanted to do more tonight,” remarked Prenga afterwards. “I wanted to put on a better show for everybody. But sorry, I can’t control my right hand, it’s really strong.”

There was no one complaining on wanting to see “a better show” with such a terrific conclusion.  The heavyweights can never go wrong with knockout performers like Prenga.

All in all, it was another fun night of boxing at the Atlantic City Boardwalk.

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SUPERMAN BOXING CONNECTION

“The Man of Steel” swoops into Metropolis for the 45^th Annual Superman Celebration

“Superman & Lois” star Tyler Hoechlin leads the group of visiting celebrity visitors

The USA Boxing News’ Superman Jeopardy proves to be a fan-favorite event at the Celebration

Story by John and Alex Rinaldi

Photographs by Janine Rinaldi

“The spirit of Superman is great to have around.” – Brandon Routh (who played Superman in 2006’s Superman Returns film)

METROPOLIS, IL. Since Ray Middleton adorned the costume on July 3, 1939, on “Superman Day” at the New York’s World’s Fair, there have been only a handful of men portraying “The Last Son of Krypton” on Earth.  Luckily, the latest cape-holder, Tyler Hoechlin, star of the huge hit on CW’s Superman & Lois television show arrived at the recent Superman Celebration in Metropolis, Illinois to the delight of “The Man of Tomorrow” fans who ventured around the globe to attend.

Hoechlin displayed a humble Clark Kent-type personality during the various Meet and Greets with the fans, and in his Question-and-Answer session on Saturday. Tyler also revealed what an honor it was to portray the legendary superhero during his Q&A session hosted by John Gleckler

Beforehand, Tyler posed in the town square in front of the imposing and colorful 15 ft. Superman. It was surely a great catch for the Metropolis Chamber of Commerce to obtain an actor who is currently portraying Superman.  There were actors who played the character in the past, but this was the first time that an active Superman was on hand for the festivities. In fact, a few days later, Superman & Lois was renewed for a fourth season on the CW.

2023 was a special year for Superman. It marked the 85^th anniversary of his first appearance in comic books, it was the 45^th anniversary of the classic film, Superman – The Movie, along with Metropolis’ Annual Superman Celebration. It was also the 30^th anniversary of the construction of the Superman statue. Those are wonderful Super milestones to achieve.

Besides Tyler Hoechlin, other celebrities on hand featured Jesse Rath and Nicole Maines, who portrayed Brainiac-5 and Dreamer, respectively, on the Supergirl TV show, that premiered on CBS in 2015 and ended its run in 2021 on the CW for a total of 126 episodes. The final guest on hand was Sam T. Jones who performed the title role in the hit 1980 film Flash Gordon.

On Friday, Jones had a Question-and-Answer session hosted by Chris Brockow.

A great story happened involving two of the celebrities at the Celebration. One of the Superman Jeopardy helpers Kristen has a sister who is disabled. After Jesse Rath and Nicole Maines finished with their Meet and Greets, Kristin approached the two for a big favor – if they could give her sister a quick call. In most cases you can predict what the answer would be, namely a “no”, but then you would not be at the Superman Celebration. Well, Kristin made the call to her sister and Jesse got on the phone first and had a nice conversation in his funny Brainiac-5 persona. Then the phone was handed to Nicole who spoke in the voice of her familiar Dreamer character. It sure was a wonderful gesture by the two Supergirl celebrities, and a phone call that Kristin’s sister would never forget.  That is the kind of goodwill that is constantly taking place during the Superman Celebration. It is a place where pockets of this kind of magic often happens.

Nicole and Jessie held a lively Q&A session hosted by Ray Martinez and Sondra Ruth before a packed tent.

One can never do enough to beautify a town and make it better. Two such individuals are Morgan and Adam Siebert, who own the fabulous Super Museum that is right across the street from the imposing Superman statue. The museum is the must-see destination spot.

Inside the museum are near priceless items of artifacts from the Superman serials of the 1940s, TV shows such as The Adventures of Superman, Lois & Clark, Superboy and Smallville, along with Superman films from the Christopher Reeve era up until the present day.  One can spend hours perusing in the edifice. There are also memorabilia dating from the 1930s onwards. From toys, cereal premiums, original costumes, lunchboxes, records, action figures, movie posters, and nearly everything else one can imagine are on display. It is worth the trip to Metropolis just to see the museum (https://supermuseum.com). Founded by Morgan’s father Jim Hambrick, the museum is beyond super!

Morgan Seibert is not only the person owning and running the Super Museum with her husband Adam but is also a very talented artist. On a wall in the town, she painted a Greeting from Metropolis mural highlighting the town and Superman. On Friday of the Celebration, there was a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by Morgan, Adam, and Jim. It is just another stop to make along the way in Metropolis for a great photo op. 

Other photo ops are the large Superman sign that greets fans when they enter Metropolis and the Lois Lane statue, in honor of the legendary Adventures of Superman star Noel Neill, who portrayed Lois Lane in the classic series from 1953-1958, along with playing Lois in the 1948 Superman serial and the 1950 Atom Man vs. Superman serial. The statue is another spot to catch in Metropolis.

On Friday and Saturday night, fans were treated to an amazing live wrestling by the Tennessee Championship Wrestling group, which is promoted by K.C. Gold. The matches featured “Mr. Marvelous” Mike Mayo, Isiah Cone, Candi Jewel, and Jennifer Justice. The highlight were the two matches with long-time Superman Celebration performers Justin “The Broken Arrow Bad Boy” Lee and Ray “Triple X” Martinez. There was a lot of fun and laughs watching these two characters tangle in the ring. More importantly, it was a free event and the fans on hand were provided with a great time. It is another yearly event that makes the Superman Celebration so special to attend.

The Superman Celebration is a result of a lot of hard work of many volunteers, along with the Metropolis Chamber of Commerce. Two special people who have worked on the Celebration for over a quarter of a century include the dynamic duo sisters Karla Ogle and Lisa Gower. The tireless work of all the volunteers is what makes the Celebration so unique. A super “Thank You” is given to all those dedicated volunteers.

Another popular event was the 13^th Annual Superman Supersite Meet & Greet at Fat Edd’s Roadhouse. Hosted by the site’s owner Neil Cole, it is an event that gives a boatload of Superman-related prizes by raffle tickets and is well worth attending. You can have a nice lunch while waiting for your ticket number to be called for prizes.

Chris and Helen Brockow were on hand again hosting their Stump the Superman Expert game. Chris became a “Superman Expert” from winning the Superman Jeopardy Game a few straight years in the past. This year, Chris made a comeback in winning Saturday’s Superman Jeopardy Game. In their game, Helen and Chris had the audience members trying to stump each other to win prizes. The winner of this year’s game was Jack Canterbury.

Karla Ogle and Lisa Gower hosted The Superman Eating Contest, which featured participants trying to eat a chocolate cheesecake smothered by a heaping pile of whipped cream and M&M candy. It is always quite hilarious watching people stuffing their faces without using their hands as their faces are buried in their plates like rabid bears to honey! After a messy couple of minutes, Ray Martinez took 1^st Place, and John Rinaldi grabbed the 2^nd Place honors. There always historically seems to be a member of the Rinaldi Family in the game, and it usually ends up being John!

Another presentation was Celebration 30 Years – The Super Museum, hosted by Zach Curtis, with Morgan Siebert, Adam Siebert and Jim Hambrick. It was a very fascinating show that gave the audience the inside information of how Jim Hambrick became the biggest Superman collector of all-time and how he took his items and established the remarkable Super Museum. Recently renovated, the museum is not only great, but its gift shop is simply a site to behold.  It is almost a museum in and of itself!

There were so many numerous other events worth attending and plenty of shows for the kids and adults, including, an Artist Alley & Writers Way featuring current comic book artists selling their artwork and doing personal artwork for the fans, and comic book writers, a Super Dog Contest, a Heroes & Villains Costume Contest, a Kids Superhero Contest, a Super Car Show, a Supergirl & Superboy Pageant, a Superhero Training Academy,  Wonder Woman & Green Arrow Archery Shoot, Teen Titan’s Bingo, a Fireworks Spectacular, Cheralyn & Julia Electric Violin Powerhouse Duo, Authors Bonnie Siegler and Helene Stapinski discussing their book THE AMERICAN WAY, Super Space Engineering with NASA engineer Nick Mastramico, and Author Edward Gross promoting his book VOICES FROM KRYPTON.

A major highlight of the Superman Celebration Weekend features those that visit dressed up like their favorite superhero or super villain.  The costumed characters seen at Six Flags, Disney or Universal Parks must take a backseat to those on hand at the Celebration, where they populate the main street posing for photos with anyone who asks. It is a very remarkable experience. This year even saw a someone dressed as The Green Hornet and one costumed as the Planet of the Apes gorilla!

While in most places people get ripped off and taken advantage of – but not in Metropolis. Here there were street vendors selling some fascinating items and food trucks with their flavorful delicacies – all at reasonable prices.

Unlike in Disney World and at other well-known amusement parks where people literally park their wallets at the door, Metropolis is actually very fan and family friendly.

Other Superman and superhero items can be purchased in the various shops in town, including the Chamber of Commerce and the Hidden Gems Novelty and Collectibles store. Hidden Gems (owned by Morgan and Adam Siebert), and the Chamber of Commerce are also like mini museums.

The character of Superman and the Superman Celebration have had a major boxing connection since George Reeves, who portrayed “The Man of Steel” in 104 episodes that aired from September 19, 1952, to April 28, 1958, and whose costumes and film-used items are on display in the Super Museum, was an amateur boxing champion and one of boxing’s rising stars in the 1930s. He gave up his boxing career to enter acting, which later worked in his favor since he turned into not only a legendary Superman on the small screen on a ground-breaking show that is still in reruns today around the planet, but also into a timeless cultural icon.

At the time of his tragic murder in 1959, Reeves was preparing to participate in an exhibition tour with the then reigning light heavyweight boxing king Archie Moore across the country. George was also ready to begin a new season of The Adventures of Superman in the fall of 1959, where he would be filming an additional 26 episodes, along with directing a good share of the new shows.

Another Superman-Boxing connection is Jack O’Halloran who portrayed the famed and unforgettable Kryptonian villain Non, in Superman – The Movie, Superman II, and Superman II – The Richard Donner Cut. O’Halloran was a leading heavyweight contender in the 1970s when the heavyweights were experiencing a classic era of super talent.

Superman also “fought” Muhammad Ali in the popular 1978 comic, Superman vs. Muhammad Ali that featured “The Man of Steel” joining forces with “The Greatest” to save Earth from invading aliens.

In the Super Museum there is also an edition of The USA Boxing News newspaper in The Adventures of Superman Daily Planet prop room.

So next year, if you want a wonderful adventure to go on, just take flight to Metropolis, IL. On June 7-9, 2024. Up, Up and Away for an amazing weekend!

  SUPERMAN JEOPARDY

The Super Game for fans of the world’s greatest superhero!

2023 is a BIG year for The Man of Steel.  It marks Superman’s 85^th Birthday along with the 45th Anniversary of the Superman Celebration’s in Metropolis, Illinois.

It was indeed 85 years after the birth of Action Comics #1 (cover dated June 1938) featuring the first appearance of Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster’s famed creation of Superman. The comic book sold for 10 cents and had a print run of 200,000 copies, all of which immediately sold out on the newsstands.

Not surprisingly, all these years later Superman is still very much alive and kicking and continues to remain a cultural icon and huge part in the entertainment and visual psyche both in America as well as in all the other countries overseas.

Besides these anniversaries, this year also ushered in the 22nd straight year of The USA Boxing News’ Superman Jeopardy Game. As in the previous 21 years, The Superman Jeopardy Game has once again been honored to be a part of the festivities during the Superman Celebration. 

Thanks to the assistance and promotion of the Metropolis Chamber of Commerce along with the help and faith of Jim Hambrick and the Super Museum, for the last nearly quarter of a century The USA Boxing News Superman Jeopardy Game has become the top go-to game to test one’s knowledge of “The Last Son of Krypton” with other fans of the legendary superhero.

The huge fan-favorite event during the Celebration, The Superman Jeopardy Game was sponsored by The USA Boxing News and hosted by Boxing Hall of Famers John and Alex Rinaldi (Editors of The USA Boxing News), along with former Superman Jeopardy Champion Eric Dietrick and Award-Winning Boxing Writer Janine Rinaldi. Three shows were presented on each day of the Celebration, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday before packed houses. It was the go-to game to test your knowledge of “The Last Son of Krypton” with other fans of the legendary superhero.

Fans and game contestant hopefuls annually flock to The USA Boxing News Superman Jeopardy Game from countries as far off as Australia and England to nearly of all of America’s states bordering from sea to shining sea ranging from California to New York, to all the states in between such as Oklahoma, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Oregon, Montana, Texas, Michigan, New Mexico, Tennessee, Maine, and Boston, to name just a small few.

Besides the game itself, Superman Jeopardy is also known for the wonderful, galactically astonishing prizes that are given out at each and every game both to the contestants as well as to the audience!

In its third decade, the Editors of the world renown publication The USA Boxing News (John and Alex Rinaldi), along with their children Janine, Alexander, Ron John, Juliann, and Joseph Rinaldi, have entertained the visitors at The Annual Superman Celebration with the amazing Superman Jeopardy Game that is a fun-filled event for fans of ALL ages.

Each game had different categories and questions.

Based on the long-running TV game, Superman Jeopardy has a Kryptonian twist where ALL categories are Superman related. SUPERMAN & LOIS, SMALLVILLE, SUPERMAN ON TELEVISION, SUPERMAN I, II, III, AND IV, 21ST CENTURY SUPERMAN MOVIES, SUPERGIRL, SUPERMAN AND BEYOND, MAN OF STEEL, BATMAN v SUPERMAN, AND SUPERMAN POTPOURRI round out the various categories.

As a result, the contestants and fans on hand do not have to necessarily be a Rhodes Scholar to answer the questions. Instead, they have to be something greater, something even more academically versatile, which is nothing less than a true and knowledgeable expert in all things Superman!

To make things even more interesting, each of the three games have different game boards, categories and questions.

Eight contestants were chosen from the audience by answering Superman questions from the hosts. From there, after each question is asked of the contestants, a question is then sent to the audience. 

 “Prize-holder Janine” then gave the audience member a Superman Jeopardy prize if they answer a question correctly. From there, “Smallville Eric” or “Smallville Joe” and other assistants threw out a question regarding the TV series SMALLVILLE to the audience. The audience member who answered the question was then rewarded with a mighty prize.

Asking the kids in the audience questions were “Kids Quizzler Alexander” and “Kids Questionnaire Juliann” both of whom awarded children Super prizes for their correct answers regarding the world’s favorite Superhero!

So, whether you make the stage, or are part of the audience, EVERYONE got a chance to win a Superman Jeopardy prize.

After the last game of the Celebration was completed, those in the audience who did not win a prize were awarded a stupendous Superman Jeopardy prize.

All in all, it was a Super Time to celebrate “The Metropolis Marvel” and win amazing prizes in the process!

Returning to the game were 2022 Superman Jeopardy champions Matthew Vincenty and Daniel Layne.

The competition throughout the 3-day event was fierce and the winners were Scott Duran, of Georgia (on Friday), Chris Brockow, of New Jersey (on Saturday) and Daniel Layne, of Arkansas (on Sunday).  Some of the other participants included Matthew Morelli, Adam Thurmond, Brad Bruhn, Jordan Roy, Morgana Breidt, Ray Martinez and Justin Olininghouse. Ray and Justin were also the star wrestlers and always provided additional entertainment to Superman Jeopardy with their humorous antics.

Next year (2024) will be another big year for Superman Jeopardy and if you tell the hosts that you read this story on The USA Boxing News website (theusaboxingnews.com), they will hand you another prize before the games begin. Every person who attended a game this past year wound up leaving with an incredible Superman Jeopardy prize, whether it was a cooler bag, t-shirt, backpack, color-changing cup, baseball hat, fanny pack, sunglasses and so much more!

The Superman Jeopardy Game is honored with a display in the Super Museum.

During the 2023 Superman Celebration, hundreds of spectators checked out the thrilling Superman Jeopardy Game hosted by the Rinaldi Family and sponsored by The USA Boxing News, and all left the game mighty winners!

As Janine Rinaldi wrote,

In Metropolis, Illinois, the Superman Celebration was near,

And John and Alex, twin brothers, had a great idea, oh dear!

They thought, “Why not host a game, a game of wits and fun, A game of Superman Jeopardy, with prizes for everyone!”

So, they prepared the questions, with categories galore, From “Kryptonian History” to “Villains and More.”

So, if you’re ever in Metropolis, with trivia in your brain,

Make sure you check out the Superman Jeopardy Game.

 

2023 GREETINGS FROM MET ROPOLIS AND THE SUPER MUSEUM

Places of Wonder at the Superman Celebration in Metropolis, Illinois

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Champions Sports and Entertainment provide Boardwalk fans with a fun-filled fight card at Bally’s Atlantic City

Dimash “Lightning” Niyazov loses Super Lightweight Title to Larry “Lethal” Fryers in Main Event

Story by John Rinaldi and Jacob Sites

Photographs by Alex Rinaldi

June 17 – Atlantic City, NJ. On the eve of the summer season on Father’s Day Weekend, Champion Sports and Entertainment along with Fling Boxing gave fans a night of fist-swinging enjoyment at the historic Atlantic City Boardwalk, the same Boardwalk that has been greeting visitors since 1890.

With patrons sunning on the beautiful Jersey Shore at Atlantic City below the Boardwalk, it seemed that one was lost in some sort of time passage intensified by the people swimming, the far-off boats, the planes with their banners tailing behind them, and, of course, the crashing and the rumbling of the ocean waves upon the shore.

It brought one back to the era when fighters such as Jack Dempsey trained there for his July 2, 1921, bout with the Frenchman Georges Carpentier.  

Dempsey arrived in Atlantic City on May 6, 1921, and was housed at the Hotel Alamac. Besides frequent sparring, Dempsey often strolled along the Boardwalk to the delight of the patrons.

One-Hundred and two years later, the sport of boxing still maintains its historic and colorful connection with Atlantic City.

At Bally’s Hotel and Casino, while the patrons were looking for a pot of gold on the New Jersey Shore on the busy casino floor, others ventured into the sixth-floor ballroom to an excursion into the world of prizefighting.

Just like the waves crashing against the shore, fists would soon be crashing against the skulls and bodies of the night’s participants.

In a fight-bout card with prices ranging at $65, $95 and $175, it appeared to be a better substitute than losing at the roulette table or emptying your pockets at unforgiving slot machines.

The first bout of the evening featured Edward “World Dominator” Donovan venturing all the way from Limerick, Ireland to face Nelson Morales, of Scranton, PA. Morales, 146, was tough, but was outgunned by the scrappy Irishman.

Right from the opening bell, Donovan, 146.5, was quite effective with his jab and he repeatedly poked the left into his opponent’s face and torso with ease. After being hit with a left-right combination, Morales quipped at Donovan, “Go Bitch!” Upon hearing the remark, Donovan chuckled and then jolted his adversary with a crackling right uppercut.

By the second and third rounds, Donovan added double left hooks and right hands to his repertoire. When Morales scored with his own left hooks, he was greeted with three right hands to the jaw in return.

As the ring girl came out between the third and fourth frames, with the song, “Evacuate the Dance Floor” blazing through the ballroom’s speakers, Donovan looked up and smiled. He then came out at the bell and battered Morales with blistering right fists to his head and jaw, apparently looking to evacuate his foe from the ring floor.

Though Donovan continued his domination over the final two frames, he is sort of a spray puncher that scores with solid combinations but lacks any weight behind them. Morales (3-7) was sturdy and bravely attempted to trade on various spots, however, he was simply outgunned time and time again.

At the end of six rounds, Donovan won by identical scores of 60-54 from all three judges.

 “The whole experience was great. I look forward to bigger things and in the future and I hope the fans enjoyed the fight,” said Donovan 7-0-1 (1 KO) afterwards.

The second fight featured a pair of cruiserweight Floridians plying their trade through a six-rounder. Victor Darocha, 179.3, and Leandro DaSilva, 180.5, fought to a bruising 6-round majority draw by scores of 59-55 (Darocha) and 57-57 (twice).

Darocha started the contest off aggressively by jabbing and throwing overhand right hands. He scored well with two rights to DaSilva’s belly and ended the first round battering his man with both fists against the ropes.

The southpaw DaSilva came alive in the second round and briefly dropped Darocha with a crisp right to the head. Victor rose without a count but was soon holding off DeSilva’s barrage of head and body blows. Before the bell, Darocha stunned his rival with a right uppercut to the chin.

Over the next two sessions, Darocha (11-6-2, 7 KO’s) loaded up on his overhand right swings that occasionally found their mark on the head of DaSilva (3-7-1). Leandro even managed to counter a few times with his own left-rights, but it did not appear enough to win those frames.

Along with the steady blows he was throwing, Darocha opened a cut along the mouth of DaSilva in the fifth round. Darocha landed most of the punches during the session as DaSilva looked quite winded.

Although both were huffing and puffing in the sixth and final round, they swung away with all they had.  The crowd enjoyed the contest, although they felt that Darocha had deserved the nod.

The third fight on the bill proved to be the most exciting and shortest contest of the night as Joey “The Tank” Dawejko, of Philadelphia, PA, pummeled Dennis Vance in one round.

The two heavyweights came out swinging bombs. Suddenly, a left hook to the ribs sent Vance, of South Bend, MI, crumbling to the canvas. Wincing in pain, Vance, 277, began to rise. Just as Dennis regained his footing, Dawejko, 266.6, moved in and drilled another left hook to his foe’s soft midsection and floored Vance for the second time.

Again, as he grimaced in pain, Vance rose as his adversary adorned in camouflage trunks advanced forward. Vance bravely opened with both fists, but Dawejko’s gloves may have been as camouflaged as his trunks for Vance failed to see the third left hook missile firing towards his right side. Before he knew it, the left hook slammed so hard into his ribs that his legs gave out under him like a collapsible table.

Shaking his head in anguish, the gutsy Vance struggled to his feet to meet his executioner. “The Tank” did not waste any time in steamrolling his opponent as he exploded a left hook to the jaw that dropped Vance down for the fourth time! That was it for the referee as he halted the blitzkrieg at 2:01 of the opening frame.

 “I targeted the body in the fight,” said Dawejko (25-10-4, 14 KO’s). It was the first time I ever knocked someone down with a body shot. It was just what I threw. Vance was a tough guy who came to fight.”

Next up for Dawejko is a fight on September 15 at the LIVE Casino in Philly. His opponent is currently unknown.

The gutsy Vance dropped to 4-10 (2 KO’s) with the loss.

The fourth battle saw middleweight action as Pierre Hubert Dibombe, of France, stopped Derrick Findley, of Gary, Indiana, in four rounds.  Both men came out in fine shape with Dibombe wearing gold trunks with red stripes, while Findley was adorned in black trunks with gold glitter trim. Dibombe opened the contest jabbing away with sharp jabs and left hooks. When Findley slipped briefly to the canvas, the Frenchman clipped him with a right to the head that surprisingly drew no warning from the referee.

In the second round Dibombe drove his rival into the ropes and battered him with both fists. As Findley tried to slip and move away from the onslaught, someone in the audience yelled, “He’s an Andre Ward from Walmart!” Findley, 169, was hurt with a left hook to the body and attacked with a fusillade of blows that shook him near the end of the session.

Dibombe is the type of fighter that adds sound effects with every punch he fires.  The sounds of “Ish, Ish” can be heard as blows whistled their way to their intended target. Findley must have cringed every time he heard those “Ish, Ish” sounds in his ear as pain would soon follow in the form of rollicking shots.

At the start of the fourth round, the ring doctor paused the proceedings as he checked Findley’s swollen right eye. The audience then implored the physician, “Let him fight Doc!”

Once the bout was continued, Dibombe, 167.1, opened up with a blazing barrage that had Findley wobbling along the ropes. The referee then halted the bout to the displeasure of the crowd. Findley was very upset and gave the referee a hard time for acting so quickly to end matters. In this case, the fight may have been stopped a little prematurely.  The end came at 0:31 of Round 4, though the writing was on the wall.

“I feel good with the win,” said Dibombe with the victory as he remained unbeaten at 22-0-1 (11 KO’s). “I am happy to make my American debut.”

Findley tumbled to 35-30-1 (25 KO’s).

The main event of the festivities was for the WBB World Super Lightweight Title as champion Dimash “Lightning” Niyazov, of Shymkent, Kazakhstan, but now residing in Brooklyn, NY, defended his laurels against transplanted Irishman Larry “Lethal” Fryers, who now lives in Yonkers, NY.

Niyazov, 139.8, who has a reputation as a slick boxer, was overwhelmed from the start by the brawling tactics of Fryers, 139.9.  At the onset, the Irishman went at the champion and unloaded punches in bunches that sent Niyazov into the ropes. Maneuvering his way out, the champ moved away firing his jab into the face of Fryers.  The challenger stormed back and battered Dimash into the corner.

At the bell beginning Round 2, Niyazov came out landing two solid left hooks. Fryers then unleashed a right to the head and scored with a crackling right uppercut to the chin. Larry proceeded to back the champion into the ropes when he seemed to intentionally push Niyazov forward, which immediately sent him flying out of the ring!

Luckily, Niyazov’s body landed on top of the broadcast table right in front of TV commentator Gerry Cooney. As the former heavyweight challenger looked surprised, Dimash was even more amazed as he struggled to his feet to get back into the ring. The referee appeared to give him a long time to re-enter. Once the action resumed, Fryers, 32, rushed in with the fury of a jealous husband and blasted away with a fusillade of punches.

Coming into the bout, Fryers at 12-6-1 was considered just another easy foe to pad Niyazov’s record.  Apparently, Fryers did not receive the memo that he had little chance to win. Dimash apparently found this out the hard way as the scrappy Irishman was in there for a victory- and a belt.

The next two rounds featured Fryers staying inside and firing shots that bounced off the head of Niyazov. There was a lot of clinching and holding coming from both participants, although it was clear that Dimash was being sucked into his rival’s trap and instead of moving, he remained on the ropes and took a pummeling. The champion had his moments, but most of the time he was held and clinched. Out from the distance, because of the Irishman’s intense holding and grappling, someone shrieked, “He [Fryers] wants to love you – not fight you!”

Although the challenger was holding, he was also the one throwing most of the blows. Niyazov also did clamp down on the arms of the challenger to hold off the assault, so it was a 2-way street of brawling and holding tactics.

In Round 5, Dimash lost his cool from the crowding and clinching style of Fryers and threw the Irishman to the floor, whereby he was deducted a point by the referee. Fryers attacked again and hurt Nuyazov, 34, along the ropes. The champion then stunned Fryers with another hard right hand, which the Irishman retaliated with a savage, two-fisted attack.

Then it happened.

As Nuyazov was being hammered, he somehow fell out of the ring again! Instead of landing on a table, he bounced onto the ballroom floor. It was not clear what exactly happened. The champion looked to be backing his way out of the barrage he was taking. While many, especially Nuyazov’s fans thought that the challenger may have pushed him, it was simply too close to call.

It felt like an eternity as Nuyazov slowly got to his feet, but still did not yet enter the ring.

Finally with all the confusion, the bout was halted, with only Fryers in the ring. After the conclusion, Nuyazov climbed back into the roped square, rubbing his left shoulder. He apparently was unable to continue. Whether it was an injury, or an inclination to avoid further punishment, one never knows. Since the bout had already completed four rounds, due to the nature of the ending, it went to the judges’ scorecards.

All three officials had Fryers winning at 49-44.

Afterwards promoter Sal Musumeci announced that he plans to rematch the two fighters.

It was a great win for Fryers, who raised his record to 13-6-1 (5 KO’s) and left with the WBB belt.

As for Niyazov, it was a disappointing night as he fell to 14-2-3 (6 KO’s) and looks for another chance at Fryers to seek his revenge in the near future.  

All things considered; it was a great night of boxing as Atlantic City is moving straight ahead to a summer of simmering pugilism.

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ROCKY  MARCIANO

The Bockton Blockbuster

THE UNDEFEATED TERROR OF THE HEAVYWEIGHT DIVISION 

HIS LIFE AND TIMES IN PHOTOS AND VIDEOS

CLICK PHOTO TO VIEW PAGE

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SCOTTISH BOXING LEGEND AND BOXING HALL OF FAMER KEN BUCHANAN DIES AT 72By Alexander R. Rinaldi and Joseph Rinaldi

The bag pipes sounded in Glasgow the night the great Ken Buchannan passed away.

The The Ken Buchanan Foundation confirmed the Edinburgh native’s death on Saturday

“It is with great sadness that we inform you Ken passed away peacefully in his sleep,” read a statement. “RIP Ken, always a gentleman and one of the best champions we will ever see.”

Having turned professional in 1965, Buchanan captured the WBA lightweight world title by dethroning Panama’s Ismael Laguna in the scorching heat of Puerto Rico in 1970.

That same year, the Scot was the American Boxing Writers’ Association’s Fighter of the Year, ahead of Joe Frazier and Muhammad Ali.

The next year, Buchanan defeated Ruben Navarro in Los Angeles in 1971 to take the WBC crown and become Scotland’s first undisputed world champion, a feat only matched 50 years later by Josh Taylor.

Paying tribute to his hero, Taylor wrote on Twitter: “I’m saddened to hear the news of the passing of my hero & Scotland’s greatest ever champ, whom I take such inspiration from.

“RIP Ken Buchanan.”

Buchanan, who topped the bill six times at New York’s famous Madison Square Garden arena, won his first 33 professional fights and retired in 1982 with a 61-8 record, including 27 wins by knockout.

We had the honor of interviewing him when Buchanan was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2000, and a statue of the great former lightweight king was unveiled in Leith in his home city of Edinburgh last year to honor Ken’s storied boxing career.

He had been living in an Edinburgh care home prior to his death, with his son.

Luckily for him, Buchanan was alive to see a statue constructed and unveiled in his honor.

One of the greatest ways and gestures to maintain and gain a grip on immortality is to have a statue dedicated in one’s honor. In the case of the legendary Scottish fighter Ken Buchanan, who was already considered the greatest Scottish boxer of all-time, and also had the distinction of being one of the best lightweight champions ever to lace on a pair of gloves, the erecting of a statute totally cements his place in Scottish lore and legend.

It has been written and said that as a poor lad from Northfield, Edinburgh, Buchanan was surprisingly introduced to boxing from his auntie Agnes from Musselburgh, who bought him a pair of boxing gloves when he was only 8 years old. Even his dearest aunt would never have or dreamed that her dearest Ken would later go on to become an Undisputed World Lightweight Champion and a Boxing Legend.

Though Scotland is known famously for being the birthplace of golf, as evidenced by the fame of the St. Andrews Golf Course, when Buchanan was fighting he became the biggest athlete in the country, rivalled only later by fellow lightweight fellow lightweight champion Jim Watt (WBC titleholder) and Race Car Legend Jackie Stewart.

With his world-wide recognition, Ken joined the ranks as such historical Scots as William Wallace, who was famously known for garnering a major victory against the English at Stirling Bridge in 1297, Mary Queen of Scots, and the iconic actor and original James Bond – Sean Connery.

In a boxing career that spanned three decades from 1965 to 1982, Buchanan captured the British Lightweight Title, the European Union title, and the WBC and WBA Lightweight Titles, thereby making him the undisputed Lightweight Champion of the World. As result, it was no surprise that he was eventually inducted into The International Boxing Hall of Fame.

Before he even earned a title shot, Buchanan had fought in four continents, eventually fighting in five continents before his pugilistic life came to a close in 1982. He retired with a ring record of 61-8 (27 KO’s), with four of those losses coming in the last four fights of his career.

His crowning moment came on September 26, 1970, when he travelled 4075 miles to San Juan Puerto Rico to win the World Lightweight Title from Ismael Laguna. Ken won the title via spilt decision.

As Buchanan would explain, “I didn’t know what to expect, it was 125 degrees when we got off the plane, I always remember my dad saying, ‘How are you going to fight in this heat son?' I trained really hard, pressured Laguna, stayed on top, and at the times when he wanted a breather, that’s when I went for him. A rematch was never written into the contract because he thought he was going to beat me so he would never have to fight me again.” 

After Buchanan lost his title to the legendary Roberto Duran in 1972 he continued fighting for another decade beating such great fighters and champions as Carlos Ortiz and Jim Watt.

The fight between Edinburgh’s Ken Buchanan and Glasgow’s Gentleman Jim Watt on January 29, 1973, at the Albany Hotel in Glasgow, is still regarded by many as the best Scottish fight on home soil.  Buchanan captured a 15-round points decision and was awarded the Londsdale Belt as the British lightweight champion. 

When asked who best boxer of all time was, Buchanan replied, “I don’t single one out, but I’d have to say Sugar Ray Robinson, Rocky Marciano, Roberto Duran, Ismael Laguna, Marvin Hagler, Sugar Ray Leonard and off course Muhammad Ali, they were all great fighters." 

Interestingly enough, Buchanan and his past rival Roberto Duran would later become great friends and later the two would often appear at autograph shows together.

Duran, from Panama, later said beating Buchanan was the greatest night of his career, which included a magical win over Sugar Ray Leonard. But Buchanan was left urinating blood, hospitalized, and never held a world title again.

Although he may never have regained his championship laurels, he still remained remembered and loved in the hearts and souls of his countrymen.

Philosopher Mehmet Murat ildan once wrote, “Sometimes we all want to be like a statue: Always calm; always observer; always listening; always fearless and always inspiring!”

By the erection and unveiling of the statue that bears his likeness, the great and legendary Ken Buchanan shall be forever remembered as one of the greatest boxers of all time, as well as one of the sport’s fistic legends. And just like ildan said, “always fearless and inspiring.”

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Rising Heavyweight Sensation Kristian Prenga KO’s Sam “The Vanilla Gorilla” Crossed in 3 rounds in Atlantic City to capture vacant NBA/NABA/WBA Cont. heavyweight titles in main event in exciting Rising Star Promotions Boardwalk Boxing card 

Story by John Rinaldi and Alex Rinaldi

Photographs by Alex Rinaldi

Atlantic City, NJ. There is no better setting for a fight promotion than one located on the historic Boardwalk in Atlantic City on a Saturday night.

On March 25, instead of jostling through filthy streets inhabited with vermin, homelessness, criminals and human debris, boxing fans were able to casually stroll safely upon the most famous Boardwalk in the world. The same Boardwalk that greeted the Miss America Pageants for over 90 years, that witnessed horses diving into water, that saw Marilyn Monroe declared Grand Marshall of the Atlantic City parade waving to fans from an open 1952 Chevrolet convertible, that birthed the careers of arguably one of the greatest comedy teams in entertainment history – Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis, and who hosted some of the greatest prize fights of all time.

On this night with the ocean air bristling in the breeze and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore, the lights of the casinos sparkled on the horizon illuminating the Boardwalk like a thousand stars as the fans made their way to the legendary Boardwalk Hall.  In the hearts and minds of the assemblage, it was just a great locale to participate in an exciting night of fisticuffs, and like most fights in Atlantic City – it delivered.

Rising Star Promotions put together a 9-fight card that featured a heavyweight moving up in the ranks, along with willing boxers just starting out in their careers in the thumping leather trade.

The ingredient for a good card is to feature boxers who are from the vicinity fighting their hearts out to please their fans and to make new ones.  The Boardwalk Boxing promotion presented plenty enough to delight the audience that packed the arena in the Boardwalk Hall.

The main event featured the exciting KO artist Kristian Prenga, of Orosh, Albania, but now residing in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, winning the vacant NBA/NABA/WBA Continental heavyweight championships by finishing off Sam Crossed known as “The Vanilla Gorilla” hailing from Greenblt, MD, in three rounds.

As soon as Kristan Prenga entered the arena, Albania flags cropped up over all the place blanketing the arena in a waving sea of red, along with men wearing brimless felt skull caps called geleshes (traditionally worn by Albanians), all of which giving the appearance of crowd full of Coneheads!

At the bell, Prenga, 255, came out after Crossed, 208, throwing a heavy left jab that rocked the Maryland boxer’s head back. As Crossed, 36, attempted to move forward, the Albanian hammered him with jabs and right crosses that kept him at bay throughout the opening session.

Round two saw Prenga, 32, adding a savage body attack to his repertoire. Crossed (11-4-1, 7 KO’s) attempted to land some shots of his own but was severely outpunched. Towards the end of the right, two right hands thrown by the 6’ 5” behemoth Prenga smashed into Crossed’s head as his legs shook and his body rocked.

At the bell for the third round, Prenga went Gorilla hunting and quickly unleashed a crackling right that sent Crossed reeling into the ropes. Instantly the Albanian fired away with a left hook followed by a terrific right hand that had Crossed’s eyes whirling back in their sockets. As the Maryland boxer bravely raised his gloves to offset any further blows, Prenga buried a crushing right fist into Crossed’s ribs that sent him down for the count at 0:31 of Round 3.

He lay on the canvas as if struck by a thunderbolt.

It was an impressive triumph, and one that earned Prenga the NBA/NABA/WBA Continental Championship belts. With the victory, Prenga raised his record to 13-1 (13 KO’s). The Albanian has now won nine straight bouts since losing a disputed decision to Giovanni Auriemma in 2017.

 “I promised that I would do my best tonight, and I did,” said Prenga. “I would like to thank the fans for coming out to see me. God Bless Albania and God Bless America.”

Afterwards, the concession stand that hawked various souvenirs of Prenga had a lengthy line of fans wanting to buy the wares of the up-and-coming heavyweight slugger.

The co-main event of the evening featured “Big Black” Anthony Jones, of Newark, NJ, facing Ramon Velasquez, of Quellon, Chile. Set for six rounds in the flyweight division.

With a big fan base on hand, Jones, 112, came out aggressive after Velasquez, 116 ½, from the start. Velasquez was busy with his two-fisted attack, however, Jones was clearly the harder puncher of the two and his shots exploded like grenades, while the Chilean was unloading with peashooters.

The Newark native’s fans were soon calling for a knockout by yelling, “If you don’t knock him [Velasquez] out, it will be a long ride back to Newark!”

Near the end of Round 1, Jones (6-0, 5 KO’s) pushed Velasquez into the corner and quickly opened with a fusillade of blows that drove the Chilean to the canvas. At the count of “four” Ramon got to his feet and as the action resumed, he turned his back on Jones and appeared to be looking for his mouthpiece. After some confusion, the bout continued where the bell then rang.

In the second round, Jones battered Velasquez (7-7) from pilar to post, punishing him with a severe body and head attack. More yells from the Newark fans began with the chants, “Knock his head off!” That was a tough thing to do since Valasquez had a such a short neck!

After the second round pummeling, the Chilean’s corner decided that he had received enough of a beating and did not allow their charge to come out for Round 3.

As Velasquez was on the early flight out back to Chile, Jones had a short ride back to Newark.

The opening bout of the night saw a battle of heavyweights as Derek “The Mighty” Starling, of Philadelphia, PA, took on Dennis Vance Jr., of South Branch, MI. It was a bruising affair as the southpaws fired away with both hands. Starling, 276, was the sharper and more conditioned boxer, but it was not enough to deter the gutsy Vance, 213.

In the third session, Starling, 33, sent the wide swinging Vance toppling to the canvas with a crisp left hook to the jaw. Vance, 31, got up at “3” and waded back into the storm and engaged his rival in a savage, give-and-take brawl.

Starling (6-1, 4 KO’s) tried his best to finish his man off, but Vance was sturdy and lasted out the bout.

After four rounds, all three judges awarded the fight to Starling by identical scores of 39-36.

With the loss, Vance fell to 4-9 (2 KO’s).

The second clash of the evening was a six-rounder that went the distance as Isaah Flaherty, of Elmont, NY, remained undefeated at 6-0 (3 KO’s) by outpointing Dewayne “The Beast” Williams, of Philadelphia, PA. Both middleweights fought chest to chest the entire affair with Flaherty, 157 ½, the aggressor throughout. Williams, 161 ½, never quit slugging away, but was outgunned from the start.

At the end of six rounds, the unanimous decision went to Flaherty by scores of 58-56 (twice) and 59-55.

Williams fell to 3-7-1 (3 KO’s) with the defeat.

Bout 3 of the promotion saw undefeated welterweight slugger Avious “Underdog” Griffin, of Chattanooga, TN, KO’ing former WBA lightweight king Jose Alberto Gazo, of Nagorte, Nicaragua, in two rounds.

Gazo, 39, is clearly on the downside of his career, losing ten fights since he lost his crown on a third-round TKO to Yuseke Kobori in 2008, and against Griffin, he was only a mere notch on the belt of the young Tennessee gunslinger.

The bout was scheduled for eight, however, Griffin, 146 ½,  had no intention of lasting anywhere near that long. Avious forced the action from the opening bell and battered the former champ repeatedly into the ropes, unleashing a barrage of leather to the head and ribs of Gazo, 149.

In the second, Griffin, 29, jumped off his tool and maneuvered Gazo in the ropes and drove a right hand deep into his ribs that sent him down for the count. The end came at 0:39 of Round 2.

With the KO win, Griffin improved to 11-0 (10 KO’s), while Gazo tumbled to 31-14-1 (25 KO’s). Gazo, who has been stopped in four of his last seven bouts, should seriously be planning to go out to pasture, because he is now nothing but a battered punching bag of an opponent.

The evening’s fourth bout saw Gabriel Gerena, of Piscataway, NJ, stopping Joshua Maldonado Garcia, of Vega Alta, PR, in two rounds. Gerena, 131, ripped into Garcia, 132, at the onset and never stopped battering the Puerto Rican with an array of left hooks and right crosses.

In round two, Gerena, relentlessly punished Garcia and near the end of the stanza wobbled him with a right uppercut.

Garcia’s corner had seen enough and refused to send him out for Round 3.

Gerena rose to 2-0 (2 KO’s), while Garcia dropped to 1-4.

The fifth bout of the promotion was between two men making their pro debut as Franciso Rodriguez, of Atlantic City, NJ, faced Marco Dorame, of Agua Prieta, PR, in a 4-round lightweight bout. One rarely likes to see two fighters embarking their career together, because that means one may begin their profession on a losing note.

The losing note of the contest went to Dorame as he was stopped in the opening frame.

Rodriguez, 134, was on the hunt since the bell sounded and soon floored Dorame with a vicious right fist to the ribs. Upon rising, Dorame, 134 ½, was met with a hurricane of blows. With his home fans cheering him on, Rodriguez ripped into Dorame with the intent of closing down the curtain early. After sending Dorame reeling with two drilling rights to the body, referee Ricky Gonzalez had seen enough and stopped the bout at 1:43 of the first round.

Rodriguez (1-0, 1 KO) was very impressive in his first professional outing. His punches were crisp and powerful.  Francisco fought in an efficient manner and barely missed a blow. He is certainly one to watch out for in the future.

Dorame fell to 0-1.

In the sixth outing of the evening, Malik “The Natural” Nelson, of Perth Amboy, NJ, outpointed Joseph Adorno Del Valle, of Vega Alta, PR, over four rounds.

Nelson, 125 ½, pressed the action behind his accurate right jabs and hammering hooks. Del Valle, 127 ½, was no pushover and kept trying, but he was severely outgunned.

All three judges had Nelson (4-0, 3 KO’s) winning by scores of 40-36. Dell Valle still has come up empty with a pro win as his record tumbles to 0-1-1.

The seventh fight of the night featured another local combatant, when Justin “Time” Figueroa, of Atlantic City, NJ, finished off Manuel Moreira, of Sheridan, WY, in two rounds.

Figueroa, 154, hurt Moreira, 154, with explosive combinations of lefts and rights that appeared to ache with every landing. The opening frame was one-sided as Moreira was jolted down to his socks!

The beating continued into Round 2 as Figueroa (4-0, 4 KO’s) attacked with screeching shots. The local favorite then fired a whipping right hand to the jaw that sent Moreira falling to the ring floor.

Although Moreira (0-4) made it to his feet at referee David Field’s count of “7” his reprieve did not last long as another right hand bomb sent him crashing down again. The referee had seen enough and halted the bout at 2:56 of the second round.

It was a fun night of boxing with tickets priced reasonably from $65 to $200.  The arena had the type of layout that there was no bad seat in the house.

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The iconic Roy Jones Jr.

Chat with a Champion

Former middleweight, super middleweight, light heavyweight, and heavyweight king

By Staff Writer Kirk Lang

-CLICK PHOTO TO READ INTERVIEW-

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Champions, Challengers and Contenders in Training and Fights page

 

CLICK THE PHOTOS TO SEE FIGHTERS IN TRAINING AND IN SOME OF THE GREATEST FIGHTS OF ALL TIME

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CHAMPIONS, CHALLENGERS, AND CONTENDERS IN TRAINING AND FIGHTS PAGE

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The USA Boxing News Book Review

McFarland& Company, Inc., Publishers – 250 pp

Reviewed by John Rinaldi and Alex Rinaldi

Now that the holiday season has approached us, it is time to search out to find a perfect gift for friends or loved ones.  If the intended beneficiary of such a gift is a fan of “The Sweet Science” then look no further than the new book: WILLIE PEP – A Biography of the 20^th Century’s Greatest Featherweight by the famed boxing author Mark Allen Baker.

Looking over past book reviews and Mr. Allen’s numerous published works, the author has penned many wonderful texts including, The World Colored Heavyweight Championship, 1876-1937, Battling Nelson – The Durable Dane, CONNECTICUT BOXING – THE FIGHTS, THE FIGHTERS AND THE FIGHT GAME, Between the Ropes at Madison Square Garden, Lou Ambers, and The Fighting Times of Abe Attell. 

 

Besides the current book, the others mentioned would also make wonderful holiday presents.

Before even flipping a page, a book on Willie Pep already piqued our interest since we are big fans of the immortal 2-time featherweight king.  Through our past positions as Board Members of The International Boxing Hall of Fame and roles as Vice President and Secretary for a few terms, we had the wonderful opportunity to meet Pep numerous times between 1990 and 2000. Not only was the featherweight legend friendly with the press, but he was amazing in dealing with the boxing fans who would make the yearly pilgrimage to Canastota, New York to attend the annual Boxing Hall of Fame Induction ceremony.

 

All through these years, Willie never tired of greeting the fans, posing for photographs, and signing thousands of autographs. He seemed to enjoy the admiration and always treated the fans with a smile and a funny comment. He was simply a great guy.

In addition to being fans of the Will o’ the Wisp, the founder of our publication, The USA Boxing News, Joseph Rinaldi, was a huge admirer of Pep and his ring exploits. In fact, Joseph Rinaldi was one of the 19,097 fans who packed Madison Square Garden on February 11, 1949, to witness Willie Pep regaining his featherweight title over the legendary Sandy Saddler by a unanimous 15-round decision. That battle was arguably one of the greatest fights of all time, and probably Pep’s finest performance.

 

In glorious detail, Mr. Baker takes the readers back to Yesteryear at a ringside seat to that fight, along with numerous other bouts. The author gives such vivid accounts of Pep’s battles, so much so, that the reader can literally hear the thump of the punches landed in those contests.

 

While many consider us to be top-level boxing historians, Mr. Baker still repeatedly educates us with information that we never knew before.

 

We cannot think of one author out there who researches a subject as diligently as the author does. Not only is his narrative absorbing, but his footnotes alone make for additional compelling reading.

 

Willie Pep has been the subject of many books over the past 70-plus years, but never has his ring accomplishments been burned into the pages better than Mr. Baker’s work. If one had not been impressed with Pep’s amazing career before reading this text, then after reading, there will be further acclaim of Willie “Will o’ the Wisp” Pep.

Over a professional career that began on July 25, 1940, and ended with his final bout on March 16, 1966, Pep amassed an incredible record of 229-11-1 (65 KO’s), and Mr. Baker brings his readers to every ring contest. Not only does the author give a vivid account of Pep’s bouts, but also informs the readers of each of Willie’s opponents. So instead of just giving the outcomes of each ring meeting, there is a plethora of information regarding Willie’s foes.

Mr. Baker is always one to bring up details that are unexpected. One such account occurred on October 1, 1965, on a fight card promoted by Hall of Famer Don Elbaum at the War Memorial Arena in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. The card featured not only Pep winning a third-round TKO over Willie Little, but also was topped by the immortal Sugar Ray Robinson beating Canadian Welterweight Champion Peter Schmidt on a 10-round decision. Although both legends were in the twilight of their respective career, it was still a promotion featuring both Willie Pep and Sugar Ray Robinson, arguably two of the greatest fistic immortals of all time! Surprisingly, only a small crowd of 1,600 fans turned out. What a shocker! You can fill a stadium today to watch those two pugilistic greats perform in the ring, no matter what stage of their careers.

There are even more nuggets, such as Pep’s survival from an airplane crash on a late Sunday night on January 5, 1947, in a wooded area near Vineland, New Jersey. The crash killed 3 people and wounded 20 others. Miraculously, Pep only suffered a broken leg and two chipped and split vertebrae. Even more of a wonderwork was that Pep returned to the ring six months later on June 17 and defeated Victor Flores at the Hartford Auditorium’s outdoor arena on a 10-round decision – winning all ten rounds!  Pep then goes on to his regular fight every ten days schedule. What a remarkable fighter!

The author takes the readers through Pep’s childhood, his sensational amateur career, and his march to the World’s Featherweight Championship. From his victory over Featherweight title holder Chalky Wright on November 20, 1942, until his dethronement at the mighty fists of the immortal Sandy Saddler on October 29, 1948, and onwards through three more battles against the dangerous Saddler and so forth, Willie Pep’s gutsy fortitude and immense talent shines brightly through the pages.

We did not think it could be possible, but Mr. Baker outshines himself with this marvelous book on the incomparable Willie Pep.

 

This book is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for SUPER READING!!

The book can be purchased in paperback and Kindle versions on Amazon, in paperback and Nook Book versions at Barnes and Noble bookstores, Barnes and Noble’s website, and at bookstores around the globe.

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Tyson Fury demolishes game Derek Chisora in 10 rounds

Champ calls out other heavyweight title holder Oleksander Usyk as an “ugly chavvy” and a “rabbit”

Story by Alexander R. Rinaldi and Joseph Rinaldi

LONDON — At Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, England, World Heavyweight Champion Tyson Fury (33-0-1, 24 KOs) delivered once again on his promise to obliterate every man left in the heavyweight division.

This time on December 3, before 60,000 fans of his faithful, “The Gypsy King” who is not only the WBC champion, but also the Lineal heavyweight champion, TKO’d the sturdy, but hopelessly overmatched challenger Derek Chisora (33-13, 23 KOs) via a 10th-round stoppage in the third fight of their trilogy.

Though Chisora started off fairly well attacking the behemoth Tyson Fury with a volley of punches from both hands, once Fury got going Chisora’s plan of winning on aggression soon shifted gears to become simply a plan of survival. So much so that it appeared that Chisora suddenly discarded his weapons and thereafter became a human punching bag for the huge Fury for most of the fight.

Fury, meanwhile, punched from all angles delivering blows to both the head, ribs, and midsection of Chisora. Fury also employed in deadly, devasting fashion, right uppercuts that seemed to nearly sever the Zimbabwe-born challenger’s head from his shoulders.  The drubbing was so fierce and brutal that it harkened one back to medieval England – watching a condemned prisoner from the Tower of London meet his maker at the end of an executioner’s blade.

The trouble for Chisora really began in round three when Fury began smashing and rocking Chisora around the ring with swift, windmill-like punches. 

The pummeling was so intense that at one point the challenger instinctively grabbed hold of the top ring rope to save himself from crashing to the canvas after being severely wobbled by a left hook and right uppercut to the jaw.

In hindsight, what Chisora should have done was pull that top rope around himself, back up, and use it as a catapult to exit both the ring and the stadium!

To his credit, Chisora bravely hung in there, and with his hard granite-like jaw even managed to keep on his feet for not only the round, but also for the remainder of the bout. As a matter of fact, the challenger’s head was so thick that Fury actually hurt his hands from punching Chisora’s skull so often in the fight.

In addition to the champion’s frequent and constant lathering of punches to Chisora’s face, according to CompuBox, Fury also managed to land a total of 70 body shots throughout the fight. This figure was more than Fury ever landed in any of his prior fights.

For a fighter who is now 38 years old, Fury, like wisdom itself, is actually getting better with age.

By round ten, Chisora was reduced to the beaten form of a crippled and demolished bull after the matador had inserted a dozen swords in its carcass and then threw him on a barbecue.

The challenger’s lips were so swollen that they were nearly touching his nose and his right eye seemed be looking through a tiny crack in the wall while his left eye seemed to be peering through a keyhole on an old doorknob.

Finally, after Fury landed one more stinging combination to Chisora’s head, referee Victor Loughlin wisely put a stop to the bout at 2:51 of the tenth round.

After the fight, Fury said, “Firstly, I want to say thank you to my lord and savior Jesus Christ for giving me another victory tonight. Secondly, I just want to say what a fuc*ing crowd! Come on! 60,000 people here today. I love every single one of you people. You’re amazing. I’m flabbergasted for words to say how much it means to me.”

“I felt good. I needed some rounds,” Fury revealed. “I haven’t boxed since April. It’s been 8 or 9 months since then. I’ve been out of retirement. I’ve had a lot go on. I felt like I was landing my jab, landing some good punches. I take nothing away from Chisora. He’s an absolute warrior. It’s been a privilege to fight him three times. He’s an absolute British folk hero. What a warrior. What an African British warrior. We’ve done three epic fights, and what a tough man. I was hitting him with shots that would’ve knocked anybody else out, and he stood up to every one of them.”

Chisora, who pocketed a career high of close to $8 million said thankfully, “You know what, thanks to the ref. As a fighter, you don’t want to stop. You want to go out in your shield. Thank you, Tyson, I really appreciate this. There is a big fight coming up. Everyone wants to see one champion in the heavyweight division. The last one we had was Lennox Lewis. I would like to see him and Usyk in Saudi [Arabia]. That’s what we want to see now. That’s the fight we should make happen now.”

Fury agreed and shouted to the crowd, “Where’s Usyk! Where’s Oleksander Usyk!” Upon hearing that Usyk joined Fury in the ring. ‘I’m going to splatter you,” Tyson then said to Usyk. “You little rabbit, you little sausage, you ugly little chavvy. I will be the farmer who skins him, puts him in a pie and eats him for breakfast.’” Fury then shouted, “You’re next, little bitch.” He also called the Ukraine champion, “a 15-stone (210 pounds) bodybuilder” as well as, “You ugly little man” and declaring “End you! End you!” to Usyk’s who seemed to remain impassive to the insults.  Fury ended the tirade with, “What you gonna do? what you’re gonna do fuckall!”

Notwithstanding, Tyson Fury did applaud Usyk’s guts for even entering the ring. ‘He [Usyk] is ugly, like me, but it’s not good looks which wins fights. It’s the man inside the man and unlike Anthony Joshua who’s never confronted me, he’s turned up to declare his challenge.”

On a funny note, in their dressing rooms afterwards, instead of calling for an ambulance to handle his injuries, Chisora was able to bring two huge Five Guys burgers to Fury’s dressing room for their supper.

“All of this is boxing, it’s what brings me alive,” exclaimed Fury who does not need a Gypsy crystal ball to know that he will devastate Usyk when they finally square off.

For his efforts Fury should receive, once the final pay-per-view numbers come in, around $5o million.

As for the future, after “The Gypsy King” beats Usyk, Fury, who has referred to himself as “the greatest fighter of my era” plans to come back to Las Vegas for a Fury-Wilder IV bout. With the exciting and charismatic Fury at the heavyweight helm – boxing is once more a must-see sport.

On the undercard

Dubois Overcomes Adversity to Retain Belt

London native Daniel Dubois (19-1, 18 KOs) overcame three knockdowns in the first round before stopping South African Kevin Lerena (28-2, 14 KOs) at the end of the third round to retain his WBA ‘Regular’ heavyweight title.
 
Dubois had a difficult start as a counter left hook wobbled him and sent him to the canvas. The hard-hitting heavyweight then took a knee due to a right ankle injury and visited the canvas once more before the round ended.

In the second round, Dubois began to find his rhythm and even managed to hurt Lerena with a counter right uppercut followed by a left hook. In the following round, Dubois dropped Lerena with a straight right hand before ending matters with a fight-finishing flurry.

Lightweights: Ukrainian Olympic silver medalist Denys Berinchyk (17-0, 9 KOs) maintained his undefeated status and won the European title with a 12-round unanimous decision victory against Yvan Mendy (47-6-1, 22 KOs). Scores: 117-112 and 116-112 2x.
 
Light Heavyweights: Karol Itauma (9-0, 7 KOs) scored a technical knockout win over Vladimir Belujsky (12-6-1, 8 KOs) at 1:18 of the eighth round.
 
Lightweights: 18-year-old rising prospect Royston Barney Smith (4-0, 2 KOs) defeated Cruz Perez (3-4, 1 KO) via knockout in the first round. Time of stoppage: 1:02.

(Photo Courtesy: Mikey Williams/Top Rank via Getty Images)

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After some indication of the Argentina team disrespecting his Country of Mexico, Canelo Alvarez sends out severe warning to Argentina soccer star Lionel Messi – “He better pray to God that I don’t find him!”

Story by Alexander R. Rinaldi and Joseph Rinaldi

With the FIFA World Cup going on in Qatar, the emotions of fans regarding their countries and their football (soccer) teams are reaching a global fever pitch to the point that there appears to be various mini sports World Wars going on throughout the world.

If the World Cup in of itself is not enough to get countries and their countrymen riled and hot under the collar, when a player on an opposing team, especially one who is part of the winning team, disrespects another country – then fireworks and explosions go off – and not in a good way.

Case in point – last Saturday November 26 after Argentina defeated Mexico by a score of 2-0, apparently and reportedly, the captain of the Argentina team, one Lionel Messi allegedly kicked and/or was stepping on a shirt of the Mexican team on the floor of the team’s locker room.

Though it was not entirely clear whether the act was accidental, incidental, or intentional – the sight alone of seeing one’s country’s shirt somewhat disrespected like that clearly sent off sirens in the skulls of the Mexican people. One of whom was none other than Canelo Alvarez, probably the best pound for pound fighter in the world today who also happens to be a native citizen of Mexico.

As a result of what he observed on a video, Canelo’ Álvarez took it on his part to send a clear warning to the purported Argentina offender, namely Argentina Soccer captain Lionel Messi, whom he accused of disrespecting Mexico.

“Did you see Messi cleaning the floor with our shirt and flag????” Álvarez tweeted, apparently referencing a video in which Messi appears to kick a Mexico shirt that is on the floor during Argentina’s celebrations in the changing room.

“He better pray to God that I don’t find him!!” Álvarez added in another tweet, with a series of angry emojis. “Just like I respect Argentina, he has to respect Mexico! I’m not talking about the country as a whole, just about the bulls**t that Messi pulled.”

To make matters worse for the Mexicans, it was Messi who scored the first goal, to keep Argentina’s World Cup dream alive and to set back México’s chances.

 “It’s one thing them being better than us (in football), it’s another thing to have respect,” added Alvarez.

This week, Argentina takes on Poland in its final group match on Wednesday, with Mexico facing Saudi Arabia. All four teams in Group C remain in with a chance of qualifying for the round of 16.

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Dmitry Bivol outpoints and outpunches the tough Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez to retain WBA Light Heavyweight title in Abu Dhabi

STORY BY ALEX AND JOHN RINALDI

VETIHAD ARENA, ABU DHABI — WBA light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol has made the year 2022 his very simply by his awesome title defenses and his apparent ease in winning on holding on to his ring laurels.

The same occurred again in the Middle East as Bovil scored a near shutout over the previously unbeaten and tough challenger Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez.

Although prior to the fight, Ramirez could not exclaim enough how bad he was going to beat Bovil, once the bell rang Zurdo seemed more like a slow, tired bull against a dominant primed matador. 

In this bout, Bivol (21-0, 11 KOs) was back in the ring for the first time since outpunching and outpointing the reigning pound-for-pound king Saul “Canelo” Alvarez. In this bout Bovil seemed to have no problem clobbering the Mexican southpaw Ramirez, who carried a 44-0 record into the ring.

Bovil began and ended the bout with his clever boxing and underestimated ability to avoid punches and stay out of harm’s way. In round one the fighters teased the crowd by going head-to-head with the other at the end of round one.

This action unfortunately was limited, and for the most part Bovil picked apart his adversary like a daisy in the hands of lovelorn maiden girl.

All too many jabs, crosses, and left hooks found Zurdo’s chin and head to the point that it appeared that they were magnetically drawn his head.

To his credit, Zurdo Ramirez (44-1, 30 KOs) refused to go down and in fact managed to display a rather granite chin throughout the bout. He also did make an attempt to up his aggression in final three rounds, but it was all to no avail. Bovil was just that much better and quicker than the two.

Surprising, in the final round when Ramirez clearly needed either a knockout or a meteor to strike the champion, it was Bivol who uploaded his cartridge and began blasting away in the final minutes of the fight

“You know, the lion is not the biggest animal in the jungle,” Bivol said after the fight of his ability to force Ramirez to go backward. “But he’s king. Yeah, Zurdo is bigger than me, but it doesn’t matter.”

By the fight’s end and the tallies were counted, Bovil easily retained his title by a unanimous decision by margins of 118-110 and 117-111 (twice).

With the big win, Bovil may be looking ahead to a big money Canelo rematch or a unification bout with Artur Beterbiev for the undisputed light-heavyweight championship..

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Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder makes his impressive ring return with vicious first-round KO of Robert “The Nordic Nightmare” Helenius before a sold-out crowd at Brooklyn’s Barclay CenterStory by Alex and John Rinaldi

The last time the world saw Deontay Wilder was last October 9^th when he was lying on the canvas after being knocked out by Tyson Fury for the second time in his career.

Since then, Wilder has debated retirement, actually considered retirement, then eventually decided to leave retirement and return back to the prize ring – his virtual home away from home.

In the meantime, a life-like statue was dedicated to Wilder in his hometown of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, a gesture that both honored and touched the former heavyweight champion. So much so that he felt that he owed it to his fans, as well as to himself, to recapture his past glory and to reclaim his rightful heavyweight championship laurels.

Considering the fact that Wilder almost had Tyson Fury knocked out in their last outing, plus witnessed the emergence of a mechanical bore like Olexsander Usyk take his spot upon a paper throne, combined with the recent pathetic performances of Anthony Joshua, “The Bronze Bomber” must clearly feel like he has a very good shot of becoming the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.

More importantly, Wilder probably wants to set the record straight that, unlike the feather-duster puncher Usyk and the reluctant, lily-livered Joshua, Deontay is still biggest puncher in heavyweight history.

For his return on Saturday night, Wilder wisely refused NOT to take it easy and, instead, opted to take on the big and tough Robert “The Nordic Nightmare” Helenius, who entered the ring with an impressive ledger of 31-3 (20 KO’s). Hailing from Stockholm, Sweden and presently residing in Mariehamn, Finland, Helenius is fiercely prided by his Viking heritage, which is in effect, a history of killing, massacring, arson, looting, and destroying towns and villages throughout Europe and the neighboring continents.

So feared people were of the Vikings that townspeople would immediately flee from their villages just on the mere word or rumor that the Vikings were coming. Somehow, they would rather leave their homes, their treasures, and their livestock than to face the sword, the spear, the battle axe, the bow and arrow or the seax of the Vikings. Understandably, these villagers preferred to have their heads remain on their shoulders than to have them seared off and mounted on top of the town’s gate posts.

Though Helenius was not massacring farmers and townspeople – he was beating up and knocking out top ranked heavyweights over the course of his impressive career.

Although it was an intriguing matchup, little did anyone realize was that Helenius had about the same chance as a mountain goat battling an eagle at the edge of a cliff. 

Still, he never fought a force of nature like Deontay Wilder.

Entering the ring a relatively light 214 pounds for his first bout in just over a year — Wilder appeared carved out of stone with a shield of pure muscle forged on his body. He looked mean and lean and ready to do some damage, even though he was 23 ½ pounds lighter than when he faced Fury. Helenius, who was about the same height as the 6-foot 6-inch Wilder, entered the fight at a solid 249 pounds.

Before a sold-out crowd at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, a venue which he has headlined four times in the past and a place Wilder has credited for providing him with inspiration to triumph in, Deontay looked and fought menacing the instant the opening bell clanged to begin their WBC heavyweight title eliminator.

Right from the start, Wilder was the aggressor throwing punches to both the body and head of the huge Helenius. To his credit, the Nordic Nightmare showed no fear of the Bronze Bomber and was actively throwing jabs and some combinations as well as using his weight and strength to move Wilder back at times.

Then with a little less than 15 seconds remaining, Wilder trapped Helenius in a corner and blasted off two hard double left hooks – the first to the ribs and the second to the right jaw of Helenius. They both landed with a loud thud upon the body and head of the Swede.  As Helenius was about to counter with a right – Wilder beat him to the punch unleashing a ferocious right cross that landed with the speed of a bullet and power of a hydrogen bomb.

Helenius was immediately unconscious upon impact as his body crashed to the canvas as if he was downed by a torpedo or a meteor.

Referee Michael Griffin began the count over the fallen corpse-like Helenius until he realized that he was completely unresponsive and wisely stopped the fight right then and there. So demolished was Helenius that the referee could have counted to a million in a dozen languages and still Helenius would not have risen in time.

Since Helenius was not moving or budging at all many in the arena feared he was on his way to visiting his Viking ancestors in Valhalla.

Thankfully, Helenius was eventually able to stand and make his way out of the ring – the same ring where he just saw his dreams of fighting for a heavyweight title go up in smoke.

“I set him up,” Wilder said after the fight. “I allowed him to reach and when he reached, I attacked. It was a great fight.”  

It was the third time Helenius has been KO’d in his career, sinking the 38-year-old to career ledger of 31-4 (20 KOs).

With the win, Wilder remains the WBC’s No. 1 contender, with Fury holding the WBC title and the listless Olexsander Usyk in possession of the other three belts.

Prior to the bout, Wilder talked of a potential matchup with Anthony Joshua, who is coming off two straight losses to Usyk. He’s also mentioned a possible showdown with former unified champion Andy Ruiz.

At this point of his career, Wilder is also looking for either a rematch with Fury or a chance to fight for any of the heavyweight belts.

Unfortunately, Usyk is currently rehabbing from injuries while Fury is considering a big matchup with Anthony Joshua or a smaller fight with Derek Chisora.

“I’ve been hearing rumors about Usyk, but he’s not here is he? When guys see these knockouts they turn the corner away from me,” Wilder explained. “I’m ready for whatever. Whether it’s Andy Ruiz Jr. or Usyk, I’m ready. Deontay is back and the excitement in the heavyweight division is back!”

Truer words could not be told.

As for his brave opponent, Wilder remarked, “Robert has the heart of a champion, and I knew what he was capable of. I didn’t take him lightly at all. I know that he really wanted this. When you fight Deontay Wilder, you have to have your A-plus game.”

Concerning his training leading up to the fight, Wilder revealed, “It’s been a good camp for me. We worked to make this fun for me,” Wilder said. “We work at this so much that it can just become a job. We made it fun again. We put in over 700 rounds, and it paid off tonight big time.”

It also paid off in each of the fighters’ wallets as Wilder pocketed a cool $20 million, while Helenius earned $1 million.

Thankfully, Wilder is back and looks to be better than ever. Boxing and the heavyweight division needs Deontay Wilder. Ring killers like him are hard to find and do not come around this way too often.

When the heavyweight dust eventually settles it is very likely that Wilder will be the new Sheriff in town. With his talent and charisma there is nothing that he cannot accomplish.

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Check out vintage USA Boxing News editorials over the last four decades

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Boxers Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua along with other British Boxers lead the boxing world’s tributes after Queen Elizabeth’s death

The USA Boxing News also mourns the Queen – for the Royals are known for their love of boxing

Story by Alexander R. Rinaldi and Joseph Rinaldi

Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury paid homage to Queen Elizabeth II and have led the boxing world’s tributes to her Majesty after her passing last week. Elizabeth served as the Queen of England from June 2, 1953, to September 8, 2022 – the longest reign as monarch in the country’s history.

Her reign as Queen stretched from the beginning of the heavyweight reign of Rocky Marciano all the way up to the present-day heavyweight king – Tyson Fury. 

She died a true boxing fan at her official Scottish residence of Balmoral Castle as confirmed by Buckingham Palace. It was further reported that, “The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon.”

She was buried today after a long, ceremonial State funeral. 

The coffin was followed in procession on the carriage by King Charles III and Camilla, the Queen Consort, along with other members of the family. The entire procession began from the Palace of Westminster then to Wellington Arch, at Hyde Park Corner, to eventually the Royal crypt at St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle.

Since the Queen and the Royals were huge boxing fans and admired many prizefighters, especially those from the United Kingdom, an amazing outpouring of emotion turned out in the boxing world as many former champions reacted to the tragic news of the loss of their beloved Queen.

Tyson Fury wrote: “Thoughts & prayers with my Queen tonight, may God be with you.”

Fury and his wife Paris also left flowers and a card at the gates of Buckingham Palace following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

Fury’s card read: ‘To Our Queen, great may your bed be in Heaven. Love from Tyson and Paris xx Gypsy King x.’

Meanwhile, Anthony Joshua tweeted: “Rest in Peace,” with a white heart emoji. Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn also tweeted: “Rest in peace Your Majesty. thank you for everything.”

The British Nigerian-born World Heavyweight Boxer, Anthony Joshua had been previously awarded the Officer of the Most Excellent Order (OBE) of the British Empire award by the Monarch of England, Queen Elizabeth.

After the responses from Joshua and Fury, the rest of the boxing world likewise reacted. 

Former Champion Chris Eubank Sr. said: “My deepest condolences to our Nation of the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries and the entire world.”

Eubank added,” Queen Elizabeth II was our dream ideal for Afro Caribbeans who came to the UK in the 1950s (WINDRUSH) to rebuild this Great Nation from the decimation of the Nazi invasion on our Great London and other parts of Great Britain. Her Majesty’s Grace, elegance and flawless lifelong service to her people is a story of the Ultimate Warrior Queen. I never stopped trying to be worthy of My Queen’s approval. This was indeed the greatest day of my life, for I feel I may have won her confidence. Queen Elizabeth II has been my perfect role model, and I will continue to Love her even after death.”

The throne now goes to her oldest son and heir, Prince Charles, with Prince William the next in line after that – all of them impassioned boxing fans. As a result, in an outpouring of emotion, the boxing world reacted to the tragic news.

Frank Bruno also sent a heartfelt condolence. “We all knew the end was near but to me, our Queen was like a member of our family. I was lucky and blessed to meet her a few times. She was the Matriarch, mother of our nation. My thoughts are with the Royal Family – sad, sad day.”

Most weekend sporting events in the United Kingdom have been cancelled out of respect to the Queen. In the boxing world, however, it is less clear if bouts will be held or not. The British Boxing Board of Control recently announced that all fights sanctioned under their auspices on Friday night will be postponed to another date, with an additional statement expected imminently on Saturday and Sunday’s fights.

England has always held their fistic heroes in high regard. For instance, heavyweight boxer Henry Cooper was initially appointed as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1969, then later was awarded a Papal Knighthood in 1978. To the delight of boxing fans across the English Isle, Cooper was eventually fully knighted in 2000.

Approximately one million people are expected to travel to London ahead of the Queen’s state funeral on Monday.

Tyson Fury was apparently eager to pay his respects in person before the funeral, as he personally posted a tribute to Her Majesty on social media.

“Queen’s funeral today,” exclaimed Fury. “I’ve been off social media for the past 10 days, mourning in respect for our Queen who’s died. Not posted nothing, not being interested in anything else, to be fair. I hope all the funeral goes well. Condolences to the full family. And may she rest in Heaven for eternity in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.”

The 34-year-old was in the headlines once again this week after agreeing terms to face Anthony Joshua in a ‘Battle of Britain’ fight on December 3.

Although contracts are yet to be signed, promoter Eddie Hearn recently revealed that Joshua wanted to fight his heavyweight rival as soon as possible, even if it meant a 60-40 purse split in favor of the Gypsy King.

Condolences also from The USA Boxing News. We have always appreciated Queen Elizabeth’s love of boxing, and we know with the entire Royals’ love of the sport, boxing will continue to be the huge attraction it is in Great Britain and the entire United Kingdom.

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Olekandr Usyk outhustles a listless Anthony Joshua to retain WBO/IBF/WBA/IBO heavyweight titles

Story by John and Alex Rinaldi

Laziness is a secret ingredient that goes into failure. But it’s only kept a secret from the person who fails. – Robert Half

August 20 – Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.  In another entirely forgettable heavyweight championship bout, and for the second time in a year, Oleksandr Usyk once again defeated a plodding Anthony Joshua to retain his Heavyweight laurels.

Mind you, neither “combatant” had fought since their first unremembered bout 11 months ago on September 25, 2021.  While Usyk was milking his laurels by apparently taking part in the Ukraine War, though there appears to be no snapshots available of him actually in the trenches, Joshua just sat things out while waiting for the automatic rematch to take place.

Sadly, after another twelve, dreary rounds of boxing, the bout was certainly not worth the wait.

Most of the blame must go to the former heavyweight king Joshua, who fought a smaller, blown-up cruiserweight in Usyk who has no solid heavyweight punch, only to display the courage of a fainting goat and the aggressiveness of a Pygmy three-toed sloth.

To make matters worse, Joshua assumed a crouching, bending style trying to make himself smaller. The strange strategy beckons one to ask, “why would a big guy ever want to be smaller?” Isn’t it the benefit of a big guy to actually be the bigger of the two?

Well apparently, not in Joshua’s world.

By implementing that style, he actually made it easier for a smaller opponent like Usyk to find and land dozens of straight right jabs to his jaw consistently throughout the bout. Did he somehow believe that Usyk would simply get tired of hitting him?

George Foreman was certainly not crouching when he faced Joe Frazier for Smokin’ Joe’s heavyweight title in 1973, so that Frazier could land his shots better.

Joshua had every advantage in the book against Usyk, 35, except guts. As for the champion Usyk, he fared just slightly better, spending the night in his dull southpaw stance firing away half the time at Joshua’s gloves, which may have taken the worst beating of the night, compared to the ex-champ’s head and body.

It was puzzling to those in attendance at the Jeddah Superdome why Joshua was content to throw so few punches against a foe who had the courage of a knight, but the punch of a nerf ball. To even infer that Usyk’s blows on Joshua were comparable to those of attacking mosquitos is actually an insult to mosquitos. The champion’s wallops were more like annoying gnats or rice being thrown on a newlywed couple after their nuptials.

After losing his title to another fighter he should have beaten, most thought Joshua would be more aggressive and walk through his adversary’s feather pillow shots and attack with his blistering blows.  Sadly, except for Round 9, when Joshua finally decided the throw two punches at a time and actually had Usyk hurt for those brief three minutes, Joshua showed the world that he is still in reality a puncher. His performance in round 9 even harkened back to his slugging style, the same style that originally perched high above the heavyweight heap. Unfortunately, AJ lazily let Usyk off the hook.

Like a smart fish, Usyk never put himself in a position to get on the hook again.

After that round, the former champ barely showed any life in the ring. You almost wanted someone to take his pulse between rounds to see if he was still alive.

To his credit, Usyk, of Shypntsi, Ukraine, but now residing in Oxnard, CA, landed his Sunday punch plenty of times on the mummy-like Joshua, but the shots had the effect of a cap gun on a runaway freight train. After the first five rounds, the ex-champ who barely did enough to win a few of the early going, decided to stop punching and just shuffle forward as if his feet were encased in cement.

Seeing that Joshua was not going to put up a gallant battle to win back his laurels, Usyk got braver and fired more punches to the head and body.  Although they did score, Joshua took them for the puff balls they were and just kept moving forward as if he was somnambulistic.

What was Joshua thinking of as the rounds were piling up with none being banked by him in middle sessions?  All he did was hand the overrated, boring southpaw Usyk an easy victory.  Considering that Joshua lately possesses the chin as strong as a cord of balsa wood, the Ukrainian never ever came close to hurting the giant Brit.

Just when Joshua finally had a good round in the ninth, he allowed Usyk to win the last three frames to secure the win.

Surprisingly, there was one judge who saw Joshua winning the fight by scores of 115-113, but the other two officials had Usyk the victor by tallies of 115-113 and 116-112.

“If you knew my story, you would understand the passion,” Joshua said cryptically after his embarrassing loss. “I’m telling you this guy [Usyk] to beat me tonight, maybe I could have done better, but it shows the level of hard work he must have put in so please give him a round of applause as our heavyweight champion of the world.”

Joshua (24-3, 22 KO’s) added afterwards, “I am mad at myself. Not at anyone, just myself. I was like I got to get out here, because I’m mad. When you’re angry you might do stupid things, so I was mad. But then I realized this is sport, let me do the right thing. I had to mentally take myself into a dark place to compete for the championship belts. I had two fights, one with Usyk and one with my emotions, and both got the better of me.”

Joshua then appeared to be losing his mind when he took two of Usyk’s title belts and threw them to the canvas and said to the audience, “I’m not a 12-round fighter? Look at me, I’m a new breed of heavyweight,” said Joshua. “All of them heavyweights, Mike Tyson, Sonny Liston, Jack Dempsey, they say ‘he doesn’t throw combinations like Rocky Marciano,’ because I’m not f**king 14 stone (200 pounds). That’s why. I’m 18 stone (250 pounds). I’m heavy.” Really? Has he forgotten that both Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder were his size or bigger and they fought three amazing, courageous bouts throwing caution to the wind and fighting their proverbial hearts out.

He also failed to state that those great champions like Joe Louis and Rocky Marciano fought hard for fifteen rounds, not twelve rounds like they fight today.

If his nutty words were not enough, Joshua then for some unknown crazy reason wrapped himself again with the Ukrainian flag and pranced around the ring uttering strange unintelligible pronouncements about Ukrainian history and their inherent courage. What he should have done was use that flag like a cape and fly back the Britain to re-assess his boxing career and dig up his long-lost courage like a pirate’s treasure hidden off the coast Jamaica.

Even Joshua’s fan club members would not be so delusional to put him in the class of those great fistic champions. No one will be thinking of Joshua once his days are finished, which they appear to be now. Hasn’t he noticed the DEAD-END sign in front of him?

The ex-champion who appears to have lost his heart in the sport, plans to return to the ring before Christmas. “I’m a fighter for life,” remarked Anthony. “The hunger never dies.”

While that hunger appeared to have died this night, hopefully for Joshua and the sport of boxing, he can re-emerge as the ring killer that he once was, instead of the confederate fighter masquerading as a textbook boxer he tried to emulate in his two recent embarrassing loses against the overblown cruiserweight Usyk.

As for Usyk (20-0, 13 KO’s), there are talks of him fighting Tyson Fury, which one should not hold their breath for since the contest is a mismatch of epic proportions. Usyk has nothing to beat Fury, nor Deontay Wilder for that matter. Usyk stated, “I’m sure that Tyson Fury is not retired yet. I’m sure, I’m convinced he wants to fight me. I want to fight him. If I’m not fighting Tyson Fury, I’m not fighting at all. I devote this victory to my country, my family, to my team, to all the people, militaries who are defending the country. This is already history. Many generations are going to watch this fight, especially when someone tried to beat me hard, but I withstood it and turned it a different way.”

After the fight the legendary Roberto Duran who was seated at ringside was not impressed by Joshua’s performance.  “Joshua did not apply enough pressure,” remarked Duran.  “He was too slow at throwing his punches. When a boxer moves around very fast in front of you like Usyk did, Joshua should have concentrated on the jab more. He was more tired in the fight than Usyk.” When asked if Usyk was more inspired by the events in Ukraine, Duran responded, “I don’t think so at all.” Duran also thought it is very possible that Usyk will fight Tyson Fury next.

With any luck, the Fury-Usyk match can take place, so the heavyweight division will have only one true champion – namely Tyson Fury.

For the forgettable rematch, both fighters earned a 50/50 split of the purse bid, which should net each of them £50 million ($58,775,250.00 in U.S. Dollars). Joshua will also take home substantial additional millions from various sponsorships and endorsements relating to the fight.

How long that gravy train will continue to exist for Joshua based upon his last two lacklustre performances is anyone’s guess.  

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Oleksandr Usyk vs. Anthony Joshua 2

Will Joshua enter the ring with his guts and punch or will Usyk win in another bore-fest?

By Alex and John Rinaldi

For fight fans around the globe there is nothing bigger and better than a great Heavyweight Championship bout. This was actually last seen when Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder squared off in their classic third fight to end their fistic trilogy to become one of the greatest fights of the ages.

Possibly, the same can be said for the second chapter of the Anthony Joshua – Oleksandr Usyk matchup. With that said though, preferably history does not repeat itself and the fans again get mistreated to another bore-fest of heavyweight proportions.

With three of the four recognized heavyweight world titles on the line this weekend at the King Abdullah Sports City Arena in Saudi Arabia, hopefully Joshua will enter the ring re-electrified and reinvigorated to take back what was originally his. Not that Usyk is a bad champion. His unbeaten record, which includes him capturing both the undisputed Cruiserweight Championship and three out of four Heavyweight titles clearly speak for itself. The problem is that his fights are about as exciting as a shuffleboard tournament played at a South Florida senior center, and he also sadly possesses the typical Eastern European charisma, which is essentially no charisma at all.

Against nearly everyone’s expectations, this past September saw the heavyweight landscape obliterated when Oleksandr Usyk scored a decision victory over the popular and powerful Anthony Joshua to win the WBA, IBF and WBO championships. Now the two men will battle one more time as Joshua tries to kickstart his third reign as world champion, while Usyk tries to secure and retain the laurels, he rightly won last year.

Prior to his bout with Joshua, Usyk had previously unified all four world championships at cruiserweight in 2018 when he won the Cruiserweight World Boxing Super Series by defeating Murat Gassiev in the tournament finals. He later made his heavyweight debut in 2019, scoring two sleep worthy wins over Chazz Witherspoon and Derek Chisora before beating a somewhat confused and unmotivated Joshua over 12 rounds.

To Joshua’s credit, after his first loss to Andy Ruiz, which ended with him being KO’d in a stunning fashion in June of 2019, Joshua did manage to come back six months later in December 2019 to reclaim his three world titles with a unanimous points decision.

This time around, Joshua has to rely upon his punching power – the same punching power that once stopped Wladimir Klitschko and 21 others in his 26-fight career. He also has to bring into the ring a big basket of guts along with the same courage that was once granted to the Cowardly Lion by the Wizard of Oz to re-fortify his stature in the sport in general, and the heavyweight division in particular, that has been essentially eclipsed by both Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder.

“He has to fight like a big guy. He can’t sit there and tag with this guy, he’s got to hit him with big shots,” said former heavyweight king and Hall of Famer Holyfield. “If you got a little brother. If you try to keep up, he moves too much, you’ve got to grab him and put all that weight on him and let him feel that you’re the stronger one and this is a big guy fight and there isn’t no way he can beat you in a big guy fight….I know both of the guys are capable of winning, it’s just who does it that night when the pressure happens. The fact of the matter is how a person thinks. I knew what my thinking was going to be in there. I always said that every guy that got the best of me was a guy lighter than me with fast hands, I sat there watching. But that’s what big guys used to do when they were in front of me, I was so good they sat there watching and then the fight is over.”

Perhaps Joshua should heed the advice of Holyfield a fighter who certainly rose to the occasion many times in his long, brilliant career.

As a better enticement for the fighters, especially to Joshua, is that the winner of the rematch will without question have their eye on a potential, highly lucrative bout with WBC champion Tyson Fury, with the victor to be crowned the Undisputed Heavyweight Champion of the World. Though the wildcard Fury has claimed to be retired — after seemingly unretiring for a handful of days — the possibility of winning all four Heavyweight titles, along with a purse of over $100 million, could easily, as proclaimed in the iconic movie The Godfather, be an offer he can’t  refuse.

Usyk vs. Joshua 2 fight card, odds

• Oleksandr Usyk (c) -200 vs. Anthony Joshua +170, WBA, IBF and WBO heavyweight titles
• Filip Hrgovic -1000 vs. Zhilei Zhang +250, heavyweights
• Callum Smith -1100 vs. Mathieu Bauderlique +700, light heavyweights
• Badou Jack vs. Richard Rivera, cruiserweights
• Ziyad Almaayouf vs. Jose Alatorre, super lightweights
• Ramla Ali vs. Crystal Garcia Nova, women’s super-bantamweights
• Andrew Tabiti vs. James Wilson, heavyweights
• Ben Whittaker vs. Petar Nosic, light heavyweights
• Daniel Lapin vs. Jozef Jurko, light heavyweights
• Bader Al Samreen vs. Faud Taverdi, super lightweights

Viewing information

• Date: 20 | Location: Jeddah Superdome — Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Start time:12 p.m. ET (Main event expected around 5:15 p.m. ET)
• How to watch/stream: DAZ

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 Artur Beterbiev Destroys Joe Smith Jr. in 2 Rounds to become WBC/WBO/IBF Light Heavyweight Champion at the Hula Theater in Madison Square Garden

Robeisy Ramirez KOs Abraham Nova in featherweight co-feature

STORY BY ALEX RINALDI AND JOHN RINALDI

UNDERCARD STORIES BY TOP RANK

NEW YORK (June 18, 2022) — In the year 1979, the southern rock band from Florida known as Molly Hatchet  released their epic and most popular song – Flirtin’ with Disaster.  The song began as follows:

I’m travelin’ down the road
I’m flirtin’ with disaster
I’ve got the pedal to the floor,
My life is running faster…

Interestingly enough, people tend to flirt with disaster in many different ways. Sometimes it is doing daredevil acts or engaging in bad relationships. Sometimes it is risking money on long shots or setting up a pup tent in the middle of a hurricane. In the world of boxing flirting with disaster is now declared as entering the ring against Artur Beterbiev.

As his record indicates, Beterbiev, who bears a striking resemblance to the Kryptonian villain Non played by Jack O’Halloran in the Christpher Reeve Superman and Superman II films,  has a 100% knockout record on his ledger of professional fights. That record is so established that it should be added and carved onto Moses’ tablet of the Ten Commandments.

Frankly, a person has a better chance of surviving a firing squad of machine gun bullets while tied to fence door then going the distance against the now three belt Light Heavyweight Champion Beterbiev.

Unfortunately for the sturdy and rugged WBO Light Heavyweight Champ Joe Smith Jr., he found this out the hard and painful way.

To his credit, Smith is a tough fighter and was a good champion. He is also fearless and packs a big punch of his own as his 22 KO’s indicated. Against Beterbiev, however, he was like the early American revolutionaries against the vast British army – he was outgunned and outmanned. Unlike General George Washington who accepted this fact and fought a war of attrition and eventually bested the formidable British through successful battles of hit and run and retreating when necessary to drain them of their ability to wage war, Smith went straight at Beterbiev.

Sadly for the New York union laborer Smith, little did he know he needed a whip, a chair, and a pistol along with his fists to find success with that game plan.

As result, with less than 44 seconds remaining in round two after suffering two previous knockdowns, he was stopped after receiving one more sledgehammer right hand blow to his left ear. That punch sent him staggering and stumbling to the ropes three sheets to the wind and firmly on the dark side of Queer Street, prompting Harvey Dock to stop the fight there and then.

When the dust settled, WBC/IBF ruler Artur Beterbiev (18-0, 18 KOs) had defeated Joe Smith Jr. (28-4, 22 KOs) Saturday evening at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden and captured Smith’s title along with the recognition of possibly being one of the premier hitters in boxing today and one step closer to fully unifying the light heavyweight division.

Although Smith started off well in the opening round fighting behind the left jab, with less then five seconds left in the stanza Beterbiev nailed Smith with a clubbing overhand right hand that sent Smith sailing to the canvas. While it was a flash knockdown, it also proved to be a harbinger and a gypsy curse of bad things to come.

With his solid fan base of New York fans and fellow union workers on hand trying to root him on, things only got worse for the Long Island native in the second, as a left hook that landed with the power of an anvil thrown off of the top floor of the Empire State Building, crashed Smith back to the canvas and nearly through the ropes. Like the courageous warrior he is, Smith bravely rose to his feet, but the end was near, actually very near. Like a storm of pure violence, Beterbiev landed another rain of thudding uppercuts, followed by another overhand right hand that left the referee with no other choice but to stop the fight and save the game Smith from further punishment.

“My coach told me it’s not too far until I become a good boxer,” Beterbiev said. “Joe’s a little bit open, and it was more easy for me to get him. Both of us have a good punch, and both tried to connect first. I’m lucky that I was first.”

Sitting at ringside was British contender Anthony Yarde, who may be in line for a shot at Beterbiev this fall, though Beterbiev’s real preference is a unification fight with WBA champion Dmitry Bivol, the same fighter who recently defeated Canelo Alvarez in a torrid points win.

“Unification fights are more interesting, more motivating,” Beterbiev said. “I prefer unification fight. I want to be undisputed.”

Ramirez Topples Nova in Featherweight Co-Feature

Cuban southpaw star Robeisy Ramirez (10-1, 6 KOs) announced his presence as a featherweight contender in a big way with an even bigger left hand. Ramirez knocked out the previously unbeaten Abraham Nova (21-1, 15 KOs) in the fifth round to pick up the USBA and WBO Global belts. Ramirez, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, feinted with a right hand to the body and then came over the top with left that separated Nova from his senses.

Ramirez said, “It was all about the strategy. I’m blessed to work with Ismael Salas, who is a genius in my corner. It really was about setting up that shot. If you watch the fight, it was about working, tapping the body until that opening was created. I knew he was dangerous, so I had to be careful, but when I saw my opening, I took it and I finished the fight.”

In other results:

Featherweight: Bruce Carrington (4-0, 3 KOs) RTD 5 Adrian Leyva (3-3-1, 1 KO). Carrington, the latest fistic prodigy from Brownsville, Brooklyn, authored a power punching clinic that forced Leyva to remain on his stool following the fifth round. He landed 69 of 121 power shots, including 11 of 17 in the fifth round. Leyva entered the fight riding a four-bout unbeaten streak.

Welterweight: Jahi Tucker (8-0, 5 KOs) TKO 4 D’Andre Smith (11-2, 5 KOs), 2:27. Tucker, from Deer Park, New York, thrilled the home region fans with a relentless offensive display that prompted the commission to advise referee Shawn Clark to stop the fight. Tucker buzzed Smith in the second round, but Smith somehow weathered the storm to survive two more rounds.

Junior Featherweight: Floyd Diaz (5-0, 1 KO) UD 6 Daniil Platonovschi (4-1, 2 KOs). Scores: 60-54 2x and 59-55. Diaz cruised to a clear points win in a battle of unbeaten prospects, and he did so with a heavy heart. Earlier Saturday, Diaz’s grandfather, Juan Demetrio Diaz, passed away at the age of 68. Diaz honored his memory with a boxing tour de force.

Middleweight: Troy Isley (6-0, 4 KOs) TKO 6 Donte Stubbs (6-6, 2 KOs), :38. Isley, a U.S. Olympian, became the first man to stop Stubbs in a one-sided power punching display. Isley knocked down Stubbs at the end of the fourth, then ended the fight with a straight right hand early in the sixth. Stubbs rose to his feet on wobbly legs, and referee Charlie Fitch waved it off.

Junior Middleweight: Wendy Toussaint (14-1, 6 KOs) UD 8 Asinia Byfield (15-5-1, 7 KOs). Scores: 79-73 3x.

Junior Middleweight: Jahyae Brown (11-0, 8 KOs) UD 6 Keane McMahon (7-3, 4 KOs). Scores: 60-54 and 58-56 2x.

Photos from Mikey Williams / Top Rank via Getty Images

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Roberto Duran’s take on Canelo Alvarez’s recent points loss to Light Heavyweight Champion Dmitry Bivol

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Former heavyweight king Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder is honored with a bronze statue

Story by John and Alex Rinaldi

May 2022 – Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Years ago shortly before his death, actor Ray Bolger, who portrayed the Scarecrow in the classic 1939 movie The Wizard of Oz, was asked whether he received residuals from the endless telecasts of the endearing film, he remarked, “No, just immortality. I’ll settle for that.”

The same goes when individual has a statue erected in one’s honor – they experience a similar sense of immortality.  Former WBC heavyweight king Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder must feel the same way now after a bronze statue of him was unveiled at the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The ceremony was presented by the Tuscaloosa Tourism and Sports.

Statues have been erected of Gods, War Heroes, Presidents, and other famous icons, including the Statue of Liberty, for over 45,000 years. In the last century Prize Fighters and famous ring Champions such as Rocky Marciano, Joe Louis, Primo Carnera, Joe Frazier, Randolph Turpin, Larry Holmes, Ingemar Johansson, Roberto Duran, Muhammad Ali, Evander Holyfield, Jack Johnson, Julio Cesar Chavez, John L. Sullivan, Tony Demarco, Stanley Ketchel, Carmen Basilio, Mike Tyson, Joey Giardello, among others, have been added to those immortalized by the erection of statues in their honor. Now Deontay Wilder can be added to that exclusive list.

The hometown hero Wilder, 36, was on hand with his family and hundreds of fans who showed up to honor the fistic great.

The live-sized 6’ 7” bronze statue of the ex-champion is located outside of the Tuscaloosa Tourism and Sports (TTS) building on Jack Warner Parkway. It was sculpted by local artist Caleb O’Connor. Unlike the 220 to 250 pounds that Wilder weighed during his boxing career, the statue’s weight is 830 pounds!

A visibly shaken Wilder said before the crowd in attendance, “For the first time in my life, I’m at a loss for words. This is generational wealth. This is black excellence. This is greatness. This is a monumental moment for me.”

“We are excited to unveil this highly anticipated piece of public art featuring the Bronze Bomber – Tuscaloosa’s world-champion boxer – and created by Caleb O’Connor, who has adopted Tuscaloosa as his home and has created many other beautiful pieces in our city,” said Mayor Walt Maddox.

“Our organization has long supported Deontay Wilder and his journey to becoming a heavyweight champion. We’re proud of his accomplishments and are thrilled the visitor center will be home to this incredible statue,” said Don Staley, president and CEO of TTS. “His championship title has put our community, Deontay’s hometown, on the map and his statue will pay tribute to that.”

Deontay Wilder began his boxing career in Tuscaloosa when he turned 20. In 2007 he won the Golden Gloves competition and took Gold in the U.S. National Championships. In the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Wilder captured the Bronze medal, which he embraced in his nickname of “The Bronze Bomber” that he used from his first professional fight onward.

On January 17, 2015, Wilder outpointed Bermaine Stiverne over 12 rounds to capture the WBC heavyweight championship.  During his reign of terror, he defended his title ten times, including a 12-round draw over Tyson Fury.

Fury would dethrone Wilder on February 22, 2020, with a 7^th round TKO and in their third battle, Fury KO’d Deontay in the 11^th round on October 9, 2021.  The third fight between Wilder and Fury would go down as one of the greatest heavyweight battles of all time, where both men were brutally battered to the canvas.

Because the WBA, IBF and WBO heavyweight title holder Anthony Joshua at the time was afraid to face Wilder in a unification fight, most historians regard Wilder as the true heavyweight champion.

Wilder (42-2-1, 41 KO’s) still is not finished with the sport.

“I’ve been highly requested to come back,” Wilder said, “So many people have told me, ‘Come back, come back.’ I’d say I’m back by popular demand. And the business of boxing needs me. When there’s a thriving American champion, there’s nothing like it. When there’s not, you see it’s dead. There’s a drought. People know the difference now. I can’t stop right here. I must continue my journey. I have to, I have to.”

The estimated cost of the statue was over $30,000. The sculptor Caleb O’Connor figured that he worked 12-15-hour days, six days a week, for two-and-a-half months – amounting to nearly 800 hours! The life-size likeness (Wilder is 6-foot-7) required O’Connor to build scaffolding in his Tuscaloosa art studio, from which he fell twice near the end of one particular sculpting marathon.

“Definitely some bruises, and I think I might’ve fractured a rib,” O’Connor said last week. “For a month after that, whenever I coughed or laughed it would hurt. It was almost unbearable. I just sculpted too long into the night.”

All in all, it was a great honor for a proud champion, who may still have some more exciting ring exploits to come.

It appears that Deontay Wilder, like Ray Bolger the Scarecrow before him, has also settled for immortality.

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Jermell Charlo clobbers Brian Castano to become boxing’s first super welterweight champion

 

 

Story by John and Alex Rinaldi

The battle of life is, in most cases, fought uphill; and to win it without a struggle were perhaps to win it without honor. If there were no difficulties there would be no success; if there were nothing to struggle for, there would be nothing to be achieved. –Samuel Smiles

 At the AT&T Center last July 17, Jermell Charlo and Brian Castano engaged in an unmerciful battle where both combatants fought their hearts out. There were numerous occasions where each champion was wobbled and near the precipice of defeat. After twelve grueling rounds, with all the super welterweight titles at stake, the bout was declared a draw.

It was one of the best fights of the year and certainly one that was hard to top – that is until their rematch!

At the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA, Jermell “Iron Man” Charlo, of Richmond, TX, entered the rematch wearing the WBA, IBF and WBC super welterweight championship belts, while the previously unbeaten Brian “El Boxi” Castano, of Isidro Casanova, Buenos Aires, Argentina, climbed through the ropes with his WBO super welterweight belt. Both men at 32 are in the peak of their fistic abilities and they gave the fans on hand a clash they would soon not forget.

At the bell, Charlo (35-1-1, 19 KO’s) came out fast and unloaded a plethora of jabs, rights and uppercuts that repeatedly nailed the advancing Castano to his head and midsection. The WBO king Castano, 153 ¾, was moving forward, but by leading with his right crosses, instead of working behind his jab, he left himself an easy mark for the jolting combinations of the WBA/WBC/IBF king Charlo, 152 ¾.

The first three rounds were all Charlo as he battered his opponent with stabbing right hands and hooks to the ribs. While Castano managed to knock his adversary back with crackling right hands to the jaw, he was still woefully getting outpunched. What was surprising was that it was Charlo who wound up being the superior body puncher as he constantly used Castano’s midsection as an archery target.

Castano finally came alive in the fourth round as he began to throw double jabs, which made it easier for him to score with his hard right hands. Though Charlo was stunned by a few of the rights that graced his skull, he never allowed his man to take any bows and he immediately whipped off a fusillade of lefts and rights that had Castano backing away.

The non-stop action continued into Round Five as Charlo had Castano hurt with jarring hooks and rights. Just when it appeared as if the Argentine was in trouble, he stormed back and hammered Charlo with a left hook that sent him into the ropes. Before he could counter back, Charlo was stunned with a smashing right and left hook. Showing his herculean conditioning, Charlo dug in and answered back with a left hook of his own as he punched himself off the ropes and walloped his foe with a right and another left hook. The two then slugged it out with savage fists flying until the bell!

Castano had his best round in the sixth as his jab was sharper. Charlo continued to bang away with his fast left hooks, however, Castano made him pay by countering with blistering right hands that rocked Jermell. Although Castano was scoring well, Charlo never gave him a chance to admire his handiwork as he always fired back with his own weapons of destruction.

Charlo came back in the seventh as he viciously attacked Castano’s body, which was beginning to slow him down. Although uppercuts, jabs and hooks painfully bounced off Castano, he never gave up and attacked at the end of the session and even stunned Charlo once again with right hands.

The next two frames were give-and-take with both men’s legs holding up quite well under the constant assault of leather. The two fought like the proud champions they were as they never gave the other a chance for a brief respite.  

One thing was certain, it was that the concession stands would see little action as very few fans were willing to leave their seats to miss a second of the constant torrid action.

Going into the fateful tenth, Charlo had a commanding lead on two scorecards at 89-82 and 88-83, while one tally had it a little closer at 87-84. Either way it appeared that all Charlo had to do was remain on his feet for the remainder of the contest.  He surely planned to do that, and at the same time was mentally formulating a plan whereby his opponent would not be so lucky. Charlo had no desire to have the fight go to the scorecards. His fists would wind up being the judge, jury and the executioner.

At the sound of the bell for Round 10, Charlo stormed out and blasted away at Castano. A scorching right hand to the body, quickly followed by a left hook to the jaw sent Castano crumbling to the canvas like a bale of hay thrown off the top of a barn.

Referee Jerry Cantu moved in and began counting. Castano bravely rose at “six” and was quickly looked over by Cantu who  permitted the fight to continue.

Immediately, Charlo raced at his wounded prey and unleashed a volley of lefts and rights, that culminated with a smashing left hook to the head and another hook to the ribs. Castano hit the canvas again.

Like the Phoenix, Castano miraculously rose once more, but he was clearly two blocks down the alley from Queer Street as the referee stopped counting at “one” and ended the bout at 2:33 of the tenth round.

“I could see that I was wearing him [Castano] out and was breaking him down,” said Charlo. “I feel like I really accomplished something very, very important, very, very major. Something that’s gonna stand for a long time.”

Castano said afterwards, “He [Charlo] was smarter this time. I felt that I won the first fight, but tonight he caught me and that was it. I feel like I still have a lot to give in boxing. I’m happy with my performance despite the loss. I feel like there’s a big room for corrections and improvements with my boxing.”

The difference between the two battles was that Charlo was just in such incredible condition. He never took a round off and kept on unloading bombs all night.  To his credit, Castano took some mighty shots, but eventually his body collapsed under the weight of the relentless exploding leather fists of Charlo.

Going into the fight, Charlo was the -210 favorite and guaranteed $1 million and will probably wind up with nearly $3 million after the PPV and live gate revenue are added.  As for Castano, he was guaranteed $350,000 and will earn nearly $650,000 once the dust settles.

“I’m durable,” remarked Charlo. I was going all 12, and unfortunately for Castano, my power got stronger by the rounds. This is legacy. This is something that is legendary. I’m a legend. I knew Castano was going to give it his all. I knew I had trained very, very hard, but you all can see that I came in at 152 pounds because I was really in shape, and I wanted to make sure that this was my fight. I listened to my corner this time. I got in my bag around the seventh round. I started sitting down a little bit more instead of boxing so much and moving around. I saw that he was wearing down a little bit and I was breaking him down. I just saw my punches being more effective. I get stronger in the later rounds if they didn’t know.”

That is the type of fighter that is hard to beat today. Charlo is a throwback to the great 154-pounders of the past.

Next up for Charlo may be the WBO’s top rated contender Tim Tszyu.

The Charlo-Castano rematch was a ratings bonanza for the Showtime Network, which had its highest ratings in three years with an audience of 886,000 from its channel and streaming service.

The great sport of boxing is on a major upswing as fighters are going after unification bouts with all four titles at stake.  If Charlo stays in the weight class and defends his laurels on a regular basis, he will soon punch himself into the superstar status.

Photos courtesy of Showtime

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PHOTO FLASHBACK

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FIGHTERS TRAINING AND FIGHT GALLERY PAGE

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Jack Johnson and Joe Choynski in jail after their historic fight

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CLICK PHOTO TO GO TO USA BOXING NEWS FAMOUS BOXING QUOTES PAGE

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Alexis Arguello

Former Featherweight, Super-Featherweight and Lightweight Champion

By John and Alex Rinaldi

 

CLICK THE PHOTO TO READ THE EXPLOSIVE INTERVIEW OF THE LATE GREAT ALEXIS ARGUELLO

 

CLICK PHOTO TO READ STORY

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ROBERTO DURAN

Manos de Piedra

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Boxing News Stories and Press Releases from

 The Boxing TwinsCLICK PHOTO TO VIEW PAGE

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The Evander Holyfield statue is a monumental statue of legendary former undisputed Heavyweight Champion and Undisputed Cruiserweight Champion  Evander Holyfield, located in Atlanta, Georgia, United States.

The statue was designed by sculptor Brian Hanlon and unveiled in front of State Farm Arena on June 25, 2021. The $90,000 cost of the statue was part of a $4.4 million investment in public art in Downtown, Midtown, and Southwest Atlanta.

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RECENT FLASHBACK

TYSON FURY THE BEST HEAVYWEIGHT ON THE PLANET

Tyson Fury KO’s Deontay Wilder in Terrific Trilogy Triumph

In one of the greatest and most exciting ring battles in the colorful history of the heavyweights, Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury retained his heavyweight championship in a devastating fashion after stopping the gallant Deontay Wilder in eleven rounds, before a packed crowd in the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas

In doing so he has cemented himself firmly as the lone sentinel atop the Mt. Everest of the heavyweight division.

Prior to the bout, former WBC Heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder declared, “I want payback back in blood.  I will get my revenge. It’s an eye for an eye.”

Remarkably, after nearly eleven slam-down rounds, Wilder almost got that “eye for an eye” especially in the fourth round when he crashed Tyson Fury twice to the canvas, only to have him survive and KO the brave challenger six rounds later.

Wilder entered the ring wearing a mask, a strange headpiece, and a tooth-like and claw necklace, looking very much like a sinister witch doctor hell bent on delivering his foe an evil brew of rights and lefts.

Fury, meanwhile waited in his dressing room listening to the band Lynyrd Skynyrd’ss rendition of their classic rock song Sweet Home Alabama. Considering that it is Wilder who hails from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, not Fury, who happens to hail from Manchester, England, the song might have been a poke to Deontay that he would soon be resting in a grave under the ground there.

Like all things in life, the end justifies the means, and in this case Fury (31-0-1, 22 KOs) scored three knockdowns in all, the final two in the eleventh frame which closed the curtain on Wilder’s gutsy challenge, in front of a loud and frenzy crowd of 15,820.

 
“Like the great John Wayne said, iron and steel, baby,” Fury said. “I give God the glory for the victory. [Wilder] is a tough man. He took some big shots tonight. And I want to say that if it wasn’t for Sugar Hill, America and Detroit’s own, I wouldn’t have gotten through that fight tonight.  He said, ‘get your jab working, big guy, and throw that right hand down the middle.  That’s how the big dogs do it,’ so that’s what I did.”
 
As for Wilder, his effort should also be cheered.

“I did my best, but it wasn’t good enough,” said Wilder afterwards. “I’m not sure what happened. I know that in training he did certain things, and I also knew that he didn’t come in at 277 to be a ballet dancer. He came to lean on me, try to rough me up and he succeeded.”

Wilder began the fight well throwing jabs and rights to the target-like body of Fury and combinations to the head. Fury responded with hard right crosses along with short lefts and uppercuts to the challenger’s skull.

Then came round three.

In third round, the action came to a boiling point when Fury unleashed a powerful right that sent Wilder sailing to the canvas, like a kite unleashed in a violent storm.

Courageously, the game puncher from the American South rose to his feet, and managed to survive the follow-up blows until the bell rang seconds later.
 
Sensing that Wilder (42-2-1, 41 KOs) was on unsteady legs, in the fourth round Fury went after the former champ like a predator to end matters there and then.

Punch after Fury punch landed on the former champion as the crowd was gearing up for a funeral parade in the aisles when all of a sudden, like the legendary fighters of the past, the “Bronze Bomber” exploded with a terrific short right followed by another sledge hammer overhand right, that sent Fury smashing to the canvas like a sunken British warship .

Bravely, like Wilder the round before, Fury made it to his feet only to be knocked down again after another Wilder fusillade floored the Brit for the second time in the round. Down for the count of “nine” the bell rang seconds after he got up to spare the champion from Wilder’s hangman’s noose of punches.
 
Wilder started strong in the fifth, blasting Fury with more crippling rights. The “Gypsy King” maintained his composure, digging to the body in close quarters.
 
Unfortunately for Wilder, Fury appeared to wither the storm, while the challenger started to appear hurt and tired.

Possibly due to Fury’s body shots as well as his constant pressure and leaning on Wilder, the challenger began to quickly slow down.

While Wilder continued to land hard rights, Fury dropped him for the send time in the tenth the – courtesy of another wrecking ball right hand.

To his credit, and as a testament to his supreme courage, Wilder, like the great fighter he is, rose and survived the brutal stanza.

Sadly for him, the survival would be short-lived since Fury was hell bent on finishing off Wilder before the former champ could land one of his thunderous right hands of destruction of his own.

In the first and eventually last minute of the eleventh round, Fury clocked Wilder with another nuclear right to the temple that looked to knock Wilder somewhere between the clouds and the wild blue yonder.

Referee Russell Mora mercifully rescued the brave warrior, ending the fight at 1:10 of the round.

“It was a great fight tonight, as good as any trilogy in history,” said Fury. “October 9, 2021, will go down in history, I hope. I always said I was the best in the world and he was the second-best. Don’t ever doubt me.  When the chips are down, I will always deliver.”

After the fight, Fury went over to Wilder and attempted to shake his hand. Wilder rebuffed the attempt and refused to acknowledge him. In his post-fight interview, Fury stated “I’m a sportsman. I went over to him to show some love and respect and he didn’t show it back. I will pray for him so that God will soften his heart.” Fury then added that it “was a great fight tonight, worthy of the best of trilogies.”

Praise for the fight was immediate and profuse, with many describing it as one of the best heavyweight bouts in history. Promoter Bob Arum stated he had “never seen a heavyweight fight as magnificent as this” during his 57-year career in boxing.

For his work, Fury received a $10 million guaranteed plus share of PPV revenue depending on PPV buys numbers. Set to clear between $12 to 15 million; while  Wilder pocketed a $8 million guarantee plus share of PPV revenue, which might clear him between $10 to $12 million.

With a fourth Fury-Wilder fight off the table, Fury can target the winner of the rematch between Anthony Joshua and Oleksandr Usyk, the surprise winner of their bout late last month. In theory, within 12 months, the heavyweight division could have a single champion.

Wilder, for his part, could regroup and take some tuneup fights, or he could make big-money matches in the aftermath of the Joshua-Usyk-Fury round-robin. The main point, for Fury, Wilder and fans, is that options abound for entertaining, high-stakes fights.

“Boxing is big, and boxing is back,” Javan Hill, Fury’s trainer, said at the news conference. “The heavyweight division is flourishing.”

The Undercard

Sanchez KO’s Ajagba

In the co-main event battle between two unbeaten heavyweights, Frank Sanchez (19-0, 13 KOs) scored one knockdown on his way to a comfortable, 10-round unanimous decision win over Efe Ajagba.
 
Sanchez used his superior boxing skills to keep the hard-hitting Ajagba (15-1, 12 KOs) off-balance for the entire fight. The “Cuban Flash” displayed his power as well, flooring Ajagba with a hard right in the seventh. A follow-up left hook which landed a tick after Ajagba’s knee hit the canvas.

Ajagba made it to his feet and survived the round but never seriously threatened on his way to the first defeat of his career.

Sanchez said, “I knew I was going to win all the rounds because I’m much better than him technically. I knew that if I connected, he would fall and he did fall. My game plan was always to frustrate him and go in for the attack.”

Helenius Stops Kownacki

Robert Helenius was even better against Adam Kownacki this time. In a rematch of their March 2020 slugfest which Helenius won via fourth-round TKO, Helenius battered Kownacki throughout to induce a stoppage at 2:38 of the sixth round. 
 
“I expected [this win] because, what does he have?” Helenius said. “Don’t get me wrong. He’s a good brawler, but I’ve been fighting brawlers for 20 years. I know how to deal with them, even if they are hitting me low or behind the head. That doesn’t bother me.”

Helenius used his height and length to box in the first, working the jab up and downstairs and briefly buckling Kownacki with a right toward the end of the stanza. 
 
Kownacki came alive in the second and third, throwing punches in bunches but earned a warning for two low blows that sank Helenius to his knees. The “Nordic Nightmare” took over from that point on, bloodying Kownacki’s nose and closing his left eye with thudding power shots. 
 
The steady hammering continued until the sixth, when Kownacki landing another low blow. Referee Celestino Ruiz examined Kownacki as he warned him and decide to halt the action. 
 
“Right now, I want to go home to my family,” Helenius said. “I’ve been away from them for four weeks. Then we can worry about what’s next.”

Anderson KOs Tereshkin

Jared “Big Baby” Anderson 10-0 (10 KOs) continued his rapid rise up the heavyweight ranks, stopping veteran Vladimir Tereshkin (22-1-1, 12 KOs) at 2:51 of the second round.
 
“I was a little anxious in the opening round,” Anderson said. “My first pay-per-view card and all that. But I settled in and gave a great performance. I practiced what my coaches preached. On to the next one.”
 
Anderson dominated from the opening bell, landing at will. In the second, a series of well-placed power shots drove Tereshkin toward the ropes where Anderson unloaded on his defenseless opponent until referee Kenny Bayless mercifully stopped the fight.
 
“I got great work in the gym with Tyson Fury,” Anderson said. “Iron sharpens iron. Shout out to Toledo, my home. I hope I made the fans back home proud.”

In other action:

Rising super middleweight Edgar Berlanga (18-0, 16 KOs) survived the first knockdown of his career to remain unbeaten, winning a 10-round unanimous decision over Marcelo Esteban Coceres (30-3-1, 16 KOs).
 
Berlanga controlled the first half of the bout, flashing his prodigious power which ultimately closed Coceres’ right eye shut. Coceres began opening up in the sixth, catching Berlanga with a stiff left hook. He continued to enjoy pockets of success despite being outgunned.
 
Coceres’ best moment came in the ninth, when he countered a Berlanga left with a beautiful overhand right. Berlanga crashed to the canvas but the Brooklyn, New York gamely rose to his feet, pressing the action until bout’s end.
 
Rugged southpaw Vladimir Hernández (13-4, 6 KOs) registered the finest victory of his career, outworking former unified super welterweight world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams (27-3-1, 16 KOs) to win a 10-round split decision. 
 
Hernández won on two cards by scores of 97-93 and 96-94 respectively while a third card read 96-94 for Williams.
 
Williams got off to a strong start, countering the aggressive Hernández with well-timed counters and opening a cut over his right eye. Hernández never stopped coming forward, utilizing a dedicated body attack to gradually wear down. The non-stop assault culminated in a big 10^th round for Hernández, who rocked Williams with a straight left that frame. The round was the margin of victory for Hernández. 

Two-time Olympic gold medalist Robeisy “El Tren” Ramirez (8-1, 4 KOs) picked up the most significant win of his young career, using his southpaw stance to befuddle the previously undefeated Orlando “Capu” Gonzalez (17-1, 10 KOs) over 10 rounds in a featherweight contest. Scores were 99-91 2x and 97-93.  

Featherweight prospect Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington had a spotless professional debut, shutting out Texas native Cesar Cantu (3-2, 1 KO) by identical scores of 40-36.

Heavyweight upstart Viktor Faust (8-0, 6 KOs) knocked down Mike Marshall (6-2-1, 4 KOs) twice  and finished off the Connecticut native in the third round.

(Photos by Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing )

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Boxing News Interviews with Legendary Fighters

Marvelous Marvin Hagler

Former World Middleweight Champion

By John and Alex Rinaldi

CLICK PHOTO TO READ MARVELOUS MARVIN HAGLER’S ACCOUNTS OF THE GREATEST FIGHTS OF HIS CAREER, INCLUDING HIS HISTORIC BOUTS WITH HIS FELLOW LEGENDS ROBERTO DURAN, THOMAS “HITMAN” HEARNS AND SUGAR RAY LEONARD

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Former Undisputed Middleweight Champion, Icon, and Ring Legend Marvelous Marvin Hagler passes away at age 66

By Alex and John Rinaldi

It is a sad day in the world of sports – the great Marvelous Marvin Hagler passed away. He was 66 years old.

Hagler’s wife, Kay, confirmed the news saying, “I am sorry to make a very sad announcement. Today unfortunately my beloved husband Marvelous Marvin passed away unexpectedly at his home here in New Hampshire.”

In a life that saw him rise from the depths of despair, poverty, and violence, Hagler emerged as one of the most iconic and feared middleweight champions of all time, and eventually became a living legend and one of The Four Kings alongside Roberto Duran, Thomas “Hitman” Hearns, and Sugar Ray Leonard.

Of the Legends, Hagler would later say, “The likes of Sugar Ray Leonard, Roberto Duran, and Tommy Hearns were true champions. There were some incredible fights between us, and I was happy to give them all an opportunity to fight me.”

The four of them, also collectively known as the Four Legends, were astonishingly coined that moniker while they were all still active fighters and dangerous adversaries of each other.

As with the Mercury Seven Astronauts who started America’s Space Program, the Four Legends also carried in their soul and being the same “right stuff” that would transcend them to greatness; and within time, the Legends, like the Astronauts,  would all eventually stake their own claim to the stars.

Unlike many charmed athletes in less dangerous sports, Hagler and his fellow Legends earned their bones the hard way – they all came, they all went, and they all conquered. They also captured the hearts and minds of a generation of sports enthusiasts who reveled in their sheer strength, tenacity, conditioning, punching power, boxing acumen, and, most of all,  the ability to violently knock out anyone who stood in their way.

They also brought the big purse money down to the lower weights in a manner that was never seen before. It was as if four supermen of Krypton landed on Earth and became boxers.

While the fictional Cark Kent found Metropolis, a young Marvin Hagler, after the violent and deadly Newark, New Jersey riots of 1967, made his way to Brockton, Massachusetts.

After acclimating to New England, in 1969 Hagler took up boxing after walking into a gym owned by brothers Pat and Goody Petronelli, who soon became his lifelong trainers and managers.

So great was his natural talent that in 1973, only four years since putting on a pair of boxing gloves, Hagler would win the National AAU 165-pound title.

It would be the beginning of a ride that would take him to heights where few men had gone before or after; and by the end of his career, he would engage in some of the most memorable fights ever seen in the colorful history of boxing. 

But before all that happened, he first had to get noticed by the boxing powers that be.

For a long while, Hagler had difficulty finding high-profile opponents willing to face him. He even had a chance meeting with former Heavyweight Champion and ring great Smokin’ Joe Frazier who told Hagler frankly, ‘You have three strikes against you, you’re black, you’re a southpaw, and you’re good.”

Fortunately, besides his advice,  Frazier also offered Hagler on two weeks’ notice, an opportunity to fight Willie “The Worm” Monroe, who was being trained by Frazier. Though Hagler lost the decision, the fight was very close and Monroe agreed to give Marvin a second match. In the rematch, Hagler knocked out Monroe in 12 rounds. He then later TKO’d The Worm in two rounds in their third and final bout.

Hagler’s fortunes picked up even more when the famed promoter Bob Arum signed him up after Marvin’s ten round decision win over top contender ‘Bad’ Bennie Briscoe in 1978.

This would turn out to be the major break in his career.

One year and six fights later, Hagler was finally offered a shot at the Middleweight Champion Vito Antuofermo on November 30, 1979. After fifteen grueling rounds, the fight was ultimately declared a draw and Vito retained his title.

Hagler, disappointed, but nonplussed, won his next three fights –  two by knockout. This securely placed him once again as the number one ranked middleweight contender.

Since he was the top contender, he automatically earned a crack at then current Middleweight Champion Alan Minter who recently defeated Antuofermo for the title.

In front of a sold-out crowd of Minter fans at the Wembley Arena in London, Marvin decimated Minter in three rounds to become the undisputed Middleweight Champion of the World. So upset was the crowd that they pelted Hagler with bottles and debris forcing him and his handlers out of the ring in fear of their lives. Though he was not awarded his title belt on the spot in the ring, with the win and the new title, Hagler would immediately change the entire landscape of the Middleweight division. Under his tenure, the middleweights would go from a relatively unpopular division to a huge marquee name division.

Hagler, like many great fighters before him, trained very hard for his fights. He also  had a an usual training regimen.  He would set up his training on Cape Cod and stay in motels that had closed for the winter. For his “road work” he would often wear actual army boots, calling running shoes “sissy shoes.” As Hagler said, “You’re supposed to seclude yourself. All the great champions did the same. Rocky Marciano, Muhammad Ali up on his mountain at Deer Lake. They put themselves in jail. I put myself in jail….Every fighter has got be dedicated, learn how to sacrifice, know what the devotion is all about, make sure you’re paying attention and studying your art.”

With the undisputed Middleweight title in hand, Hagler defended his crown successfully seven times, all wins coming by way of stoppage. Suffice to say, at that juncture of his career, Marvelous Marvin appeared totally invincible.

Then he made a decision that would eventually place him at the table to the join the Gods of the sport – he decided to defend his title against the iconic three-division World Champion Roberto “Manos de Piedra” Duran, who was the then reigning WBA Junior Middleweight Champion on November 10, 1983 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

In a bout that turned out to be an exciting, close,  back and forth fight, Roberto Durán was not only the first challenger to last the distance with Hagler in a world-championship bout, but against all odds, he was also winning the fight going into the 14^th round.  Duran was ahead by one point on two scorecards and even on the third. Fortunately for Hagler, with his left eye swollen and cut, and with Duran sporting a broken right hand, Marvelous Marvin was able to come on strong in the last two rounds to win the fight on a razor close fifteen round decision.

Because of the closeness of the outcome, the Duran fight like a Genie wish, opened the door for the other two Legends, Thomas Hearns and Sugar Ray Leonard to walk through. As fate would have it, the three fights with these three legends would ultimately change the course of Hagler’s championship reign, as well as his place in boxing history.

After winning two more title defenses by KO, Hagler took on the dangerous Thomas “Hitman” Hearns on April 15, 1985 in Las Vegas, in a bout  billed simply as “The Fight” (then later “The War”) and it lived up to both of its titles.

As if a fuse was ignited, at the sound of the bell for one, fireworks flew as Thomas Hearns went after Hagler throwing a volley of hard and dangerous punches in an all-out offensive to knock Marvin out. Though Hagler fired back punch for punch, within minutes into the bout, Hearns stunned the champion and opened a cut on Hagler’s head that soon drenched his face in a bloody crimson mask. This give and take, furious fast-paced punching continued in round two as blood began to flow like a river down Hagler’s face. Fearing the referee might stop the fight, in round three Hagler tagged Hearns with a terrific four punch combination culminating with a left to the jaw that dropped Hearns to the canvas, causing the referee to stop the fight when Hearns rose and appeared unable to continue.

“Tommy’s a good fighter,” Hagler said afterward, “but he’s cocky. I had something for him.”

Though the fight lasted only lasted eight minutes, it is widely  regarded as a boxing classic and one of the greatest fight of all-time. It would also turn out to be Hagler’s crowning achievement in the ring.

As fight commentator Al Michaels said, “It didn’t go very far, but it was a beauty!”

And a beauty it was.

Hagler agreed. “A champion shows who he is by what he does when he’s tested,” remarked Marvelous Marvin. “ When a person gets up and says ‘I can still do it’, he’s a champion. If they cut my bald head open, they will find one big boxing glove. That’s all I am. I live it.”

Two fights later, Hagler took on the third Legend –  Sugar Ray Leonard on April 6, 1987 in Las Vegas.

Billed as the Super Fight, Hagler battled Leonard in an exciting head to head contest for twelve punch-laden rounds with Leonard winning slightly by way of a split decision – a ruling that Hagler would forever disagree with.

Leonard won much of the early going, especially the first four rounds when Hagler fought righty instead of his natural southpaw stance. After he switched back to southpaw, Hagler then came on in the later rounds. The problem for Hagler was that he agreed to a large ring and only twelve rounds, when fifteen rounds were still being fought. Both pre-fight decisions would subsequently cost him greatly.

Two official ringside judges scored it for Leonard –  JoJo Guerra  scored 118-110 and Judge Dave Moretti scored it 115-113: Meanwhile, the third judge Lou Filippo, scored it 115-113 for Hagler.

“I feel in my heart I’m still the champ,” Hagler had said after losing his title to Leonard. “I really hate the fact that they took it from me, and gave it to, of all people, Sugar Ray Leonard. He is a phony. He’s been protected all his life. Besides, if he hadn’t become a boxer, he could have done other things. Me? I had nowhere else to go.”

Although the decision was disputed, Leonard refused to grant Hagler an immediate rematch, and Hagler retired a year later. He never fought again.Overall, Hagler made twelve undefeated title defenses and holds the highest KO% of all undisputed middleweight champions at 78%. Additionally, his reign of six years and seven months as undisputed middleweight champion is the second longest of the last century, behind only Tony Zale, who reigned during WWII.

Hearing of the news of Hagler’s passing, promoter Bob Arum of Top Rank said, “Marvelous Marvin Hagler was among the greatest athletes that Top Rank ever promoted. He was a man of honor and a man of his word, and he performed in the ring with unparalleled determination. He was a true athlete and a true man. I will miss him greatly.”

After the loss to Leonard, Hagler eventually moved to Italy, where he became a well-known action star in films. His roles include a US Marine in the films Indio and Indio 2. In 1996, he also starred alongside Giselle Blondet in Virtual Weapon.

Among his accolades, Hagler was a first rung Boxing Hall of Famer as well as was voted the Fighter of the Decade of the 1980’s.

As for his fights, Marvelous Marvin Hagler later declared to The USA Boxing News that Roberto Duran was his toughest opponent. He also revealed that his battle with Thomas Hearns was the match that he was able to finally prove his greatness in.

(On a PERSONAL NOTE, Hagler was always friendly with us and was also a big fan of The USA Boxing News. He even granted us one of the few detailed interviews of his career.)

Hagler died leaving behind his second wife Kaye and five children and an estate reportedly valued in the millions.

Marvelous Marvin Hagler was one of those fighters that everyone took notice of. He never ventured a step backward and trained like a machine gearing up for battle. He was relentless, punishing, exciting, and sought to destroy his opponent in every single fight.

He was one of the greatest fighters who ever laced on a pair of gloves and he will live forever in boxing lore, as well as in the thoughts of his millions of fans.

He will be missed greatly. He was an honor to his sport, his family, and to his country.

He was also true to his code, he was a battler who never gave up, and in the end he and his career lived up to the name he will forever be known for – MARVELOUS.

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Canelo Alvarez stops unheralded and unworthy challenger Avni Yildirim in 3

-An Editorial-

Story by Ron John Rinaldi

February 27 – Miami Gardens, Florida. Canelo Alvarez has proved once again that he is a steamroller in the sport of boxing as he successfully defended his super middleweight titles before 15,000 fight fans in attendance at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. In an all-out offensive display of power punches and overall ring generalship, Canelo landed virtually every punch in his arsenal at the body and head of the listless and hapless challenger Avni Yildirim, from Istanbul, Turkey, who offered virtually no offense at all.

Yildirim fought with the ferocity of a nervous bride and the courage of a lamb, which would have served him well had he been a majorette or a baton twirler. Unfortunately for all, since he happened to be a reported top contender, who earned around $2.5 million for his challenge, there was simply no excuse for his performance or lack thereof.

Inactive since Feb. 2019, Yildirim (21-3, 12 KO’s) landed the title shot against Alvarez after the WBC designated him mandatory challenger, after losing a disputed split-decision loss against Anthony Dirrell on a technicality regarding an early stoppage due to cuts. Considering that in that last match Yildirim put up a pretty good showing of himself, one wonders whether he also used up all his guts in that bout; and a year later his basket of courage seemed to be totally empty.

Alvarez and Yildirim both weighed 167 pounds, a pound under the super-middleweight limit. But it did not matter, for the weight was the only thing the boxers actually shared in common.

Alvarez, who earned approximately $20 million for the bout, entered the fight as a -6000 favorite, according to Caesars Sportsbook. Though after seeing the fight, even those odds seemed to have been quite over generous to the challenger.

In the first two rounds, Canelo landed with thudding left hooks and right hands to the jaw and body of the timid Turkish contender. For some reason, nearly ever punch landed as if Yildirim was holding up a green traffic light.

In the third round things got even worse for the challenger. With a little over two minutes left in the round, Canelo connected with a left jab-straight right combination that landed on the bulls eye of Yildirim’s chin and knocked him immediately and suddenly to the canvas. Although he did rise, somewhere deep in his psyche he must have saw a glimpse of his future, which would have been him eventually re-establishing his friendship with the canvas wrapped in a blanket of blood and pain.

Between rounds, trainer Joel Diaz pleaded with Yildirim to show more after the lackluster three rounds.

“I’m going to give you one more f—ing round,” Diaz told Yildirim in the corner.

Why he ever said that to a fighter who earned such a large purse and was fighting for a world title, seemed to be not only odd and disingenuous, but also successfully gave his charge a easy way out through the exit door, while disregarding the feelings and the expectations of the live crowd both in attendance as well as those who paid for it on PPV, all of whom expected to see a real fight – not a coward’s carnival.

Besides the trainer, right before round four was to begin, another member of Yildirim’s corner went up to the apron and asked for the fight to be stopped, though there were nine rounds left to go in the fight.

Although the challenger did not look a bit hurt, Yildirim’s corner surprisingly, like a Women’s Temperance Society during Prohibition, threw in the towel at the end of the third round, for no real reason besides their apparent desire to embrace the secret cult of the Chicken Hearted.

With the win, Alvarez (55-1-2, 37 Kos) picked up a TKO victory to retain his WBC and WBA super middleweight belts.

“I wanted to have a great fight here,” Alvarez, speaking through an interpreter, told the crowd, which was capped at 15,000 because of COVID-19 restrictions. “I needed to knock him out, and that’s what I did. That’s what I had to do.”

According to CompuBox stats, the fight was as lopsided as it looked. Alvarez out landed Yildirim 67-11, including a 58-4 edge in power punches. In the third round, Alvarez threw 53 power punches as if he was fighting a gym heavy bag with a pulse.

Alvarez picked up his second victory in three months and retained two of the four belts in the 168-pound division.

The fight was the first of what Alvarez hopes will be a productive year seeking unification fights. Alvarez will next fight Billy Joe Saunders, the World Boxing Organization (WBO) titleholder on May 8 for Cinco de Mayo. Caleb Plant holds the IBF title – the fourth sanctioning body belt.

Saunders (30-0, 14 KOs) has held the WBO super middleweight belt since he beat Shefat Isufi in May 2019.

“I want to make history,” Alvarez said in the post-fight interview. “I want to be one of the best in the world.”

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Unbeaten Caleb Plant overwhelms challenger Caleb Truax to retain IBF Super Middleweight Title

By Alex and John Rinaldi

January 30 – Los Angeles, CA. In a great shutout performance, world champion Caleb Plant retained his IBF super middleweight title with a unanimous one-sided decision win over challenger and former champion Caleb Truax.

The fact they were fighting at the Shrine Auditorium in the Expo Hall could not be more fitting, since without having any fans on hand it was as silent as a morgue on a Saturday night.

That is the problem when there are no fans on hand – the fighters cannot get juiced up by the crowd.

Imagine Muhammad Ali fighting George Foreman in Zaire in 1974 and there was no one chanting “ALI, ALI, ALI” non-stop for the entire fight.

To his credit, the tough Caleb Plant, 167 ½, went after the challenger Caleb Truax, 167 ¾, right from the opening bell. In an impressive display of fast hands and combinations to the head and body, Plant, of Nashville, Tennessee, pasted Truax who was intent to plod forward throwing less punches than the corner florist.

When the hard rock group Metallica sang the following words from their song Enter Sandman:

Exit light
Enter night
Take my hand
We’re off to Never Neverland

They must have been referring to Truax who, with his trance-like performance, seemed to whisper himself off to a sleepy place in Neverland.

Plant, meanwhile did what he could, which was quite a lot. He constantly speared Truax’s face with the jab, so much so that it appeared that there was a strange magnetic pull that constantly slammed Plant’s gloved fist consistently into Truax’s chin.

The problem was, that for some uncanny reason, especially since he was a former champion with a pretty big punch as proven by his 19 KO’s coming into the fight, Truax, of Osseo, Minnesota,  never upped the aggression past that of a one-legged goat. Maybe it was due to Plant’s spectacular swiftness, both with his hands and feet, particularly when he employed frequent side to side movement that tended to baffle the challenger.

With big fights looming on the horizon against the likes of fellow title holders Canelo Alvarez and Billy Joe Saunders, Plant dryly remarked before the fight that he had “everything to lose,” probably referring to losing those huge paydays if he actually lost the fight.

Well, lose he did not. Instead he did the boxer’s version of throwing a no-hitter by shutting out Truax for twelve rounds as all three judges scored it for the Tennessean Plant by score of 120-108.

But three cheers for Plant. He came, he went, and he conquered.

Although he entered into the bout a betting favorite of -2500 to Truax at +1000, Plant fought very much like the gifted champion he is. People in Nashville probably scored big on the bets, every single one of them probably going for their hometown star.

After a quick first round, Plant began to unleash some real power in round two doubling up with the left hook to the head and body; and occasionally landing a left hook-uppercut that knocked Truax’s head back so far it appeared as if the challengers head was connected to his neck by a hinge.

By round four,  the damage was starting to show on Truax’s face as blood began to paint his face in a dark shade of crimson as if Plant dipped his gloves into a red inkwell.

While Truax did pick up the pace a little in round eight, merely going from first gear to a still slow second gear, it simply was not enough to turn the tide in the fight, and it never did.

By the fight’s end even the church mice in attendance all thought that Plant won big as he increased his record to a still undefeated 21-0 (12 KO’s).

With the loss Truax dropped to (31-5-2, 19 KO).

Plant said afterward that he hurt his hand early in the fight, causing him to be “a little hesitant at times,” but overall he was pleased with his performance.

“I want to become the first undisputed super middleweight champion of all time,” said Plant, who has his eyes on a potential May bout between titleholders Canelo Alvarez and Billy Joe Saunders. “Whoever is in the way of that doesn’t matter…I feel that I’m the best super middleweight in the world,” boasted Plant.

The question is “who is next”.

The winner of an Alvarez-Saunders fight would make the grand slam opponent, since big dollars will shower both Plant and Alvarez.  It would also become a complete unification title fight, since Alvarez owns both the WBA and WBC belts, while Saunders is the WBO titleholder

Of course Alvarez still needs to first defeat Avni Yildirim on Feb. 27.

With these tough fighters on the perch of the division, the super middleweight matchups just got a lot more exciting.

In a co-main event featuring heavyweights, Michael Coffie (12-0, 9 KO) landed a jarring left uppercut to knock Darmani Rock (17-1, 12 KO) down for the first time in the third round. Rock got up after a 9-count, and then seconds later Coffie landed a left hook to Rock’s head, knocking him down for a second time and ending the fight.

On the undercard, undefeated 20-year-old Joey Spencer (12-0, 9 KO) knocked out Isiah Seldon (14-4-1) in the first round of a middleweight fight, sending him twice to canvas.

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Terence Crawford demolishes former Champ Kell Brook to retain WBO Welterweight Title at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas

By Alex and John Rinaldi

LAS VEGAS —  It is common knowledge that the state of Nebraska’s most widely known and grown crop is corn, which is used to feed livestock and poultry, as well as make the industrial chemical known as ethanol.

After the corn is grown and harvested – the next most important part of the process is the husking of corn, which is the removal of its outer leafy-like layers leaving remaining only the cob or seed rack of the corn. This husking is not only part of the process, it also becomes a communal ritual in some parts of the state.

That is why the University of Nebraska football team is famously known as the Cornhuskers.

It is equally well known that the WBO Welterweight Champion Terence Crawford also happens to hail from Nebraska.

But make no mistake about it, the closest Crawford  will ever come to being a Cornhusker is when his fists crash through his opponents’ layers of defense with the goal of turning their battered, smashed faces into cornbread.

And like the Grim Reaper the only thing Crawford is reaping lately is pain and destruction.

Defending his WBO welterweight title for the fourth time, on November 14, Crawford knew that his opponent was not some undeserving or unqualified challenger. Instead staring at him from the other side of the ring stood Kell Brook, from Sheffield England, who had previously won the IBF welterweight title from Shawn Porter in 2014, then defended it successfully three times until losing it to Errol Spence three years later in 2017.

Brook, 147,  also had three things going for him: One, lack of fear of any man; Two,  the skills and desire to win back the welterweight title, and, Three,  knockout powered fists that caused 27 men in his 39 wins to never hear the sound of the final bell.

Besides that, the Brit looked be chiseled out of the same Brimham Rocks found near his hometown of Sheffield. In short, he looked to be in wonderful condition and ready to take on his American adversary.

Though the odds makers had him a +1100 chance to win, by fight time, when the English money finally made its way to the Las Vegas Strip, the odds in Brook’s favor increased to +700.

As for Crawford, 146.4, who entered the ring at odds of -225 to retain his title by knockout, and wearing black trunks with gold trim, he had one thing on his mind – a mission as old as the wars of men and might, to seek and annihilate his challenger before the bell tolled 12.

A few minutes later, when the bell rang loud in the near COVID deserted MGM Bubble, Brook started the fight confident behind left jabs and rights to the head and body.  When Crawford, a natural southpaw, came out initially as a righty, Brook took advantage of this to score often with the left jab.

In round two, Terence switched back to lefty and began landing some hard right jabs and combinations. Brook, meanwhile, connected well with straight rights to attack Crawford’s southpaw stance and even managed to pull out of his arsenal an uppercut or two.

The give and take continued in round three, when Brook, wearing white trunks with blue and red trim, continued throwing punches to Crawford’s head and midsection. This time the champion began to pick up the pace, and even stunned Brook with a hard right to the chin near the round’s end.

That right hand punch would prove to be a harbinger of things to come, and like a firestorm tearing up a prairie, it would soon spell doom to anyone in its path.

For the challenger Brook, that doom came for him in round four.

After a fairly close beginning of the round, at around the 2:17 mark, Brook went to throw a left jab…then it happened.

Like meteor on target to strike planet Earth, Crawford countered over the left with a right cross that collided with Brook’s jaw and crushed it as if struck by a cinder block thrown off the top of a farm silo.

Immediately Brook, who never actually saw the punch coming or landing, flew across the ring and into the ropes. Though the ropes at first appeared to be protecting him from falling to the canvas, at the same time it also trapped him like a spider’s web.  

Seeing Brook helpless and hurt, Crawford pounced on him with a hard flurry of punches until the referee Tony Weeks interceded to give the British challenger a merciful eight count.

With his eyes still rolling in his head like gumballs, and his face taking on the gray mask of a man about to take the long walk down the hall to the electric chair, Brook bravely continued the fight.

Unfortunately for Brook, Crawford not only wanted to continue the fight – he also wanted to end it.

And end it he did.

His punches shot out like bullets from a Tommy Gun, consisting of a right to the head, followed by three jarring left hooks, culminating with one final right hand that put Brook somewhere between an ether forced sleep and the curved resting bench of a guillotine.

Thankfully Weeks saw enough and jumped in to save both Brook and his career in the fight game.

The time of the stoppage was 1:14 of round four.

Although Brook (39-3, 27 KOs) was leading on two of three judges’ cards entering the fourth round, it was Crawford (37-0, 28 KOs)  who ended Brook’s challenge forever.

Crawford, who pocketed a cool $4 million for his night’s work,  has now won eight straight fights by knockout dating back to July 2016.

As for  Brook, the first thing he said to his corner after the fight was, “What happened?”

Well, Terence Crawford happened…and he keeps on happening fight after fight.

“I already said who I want {next}. I want Pacquiao. I want to revisit that fight,” Crawford said. “That was a fight that should’ve happened right now. But being that the pandemic happened, and they weren’t going to allow fans in the Middle East, they had to put a hold to that. Everything was 95 percent done. We had the venue. The money was almost there. It wasn’t quite there. That was the only thing we were waiting on.

“Kell is a tremendous talent. He came and he tried to take my title. He was in shape. He made the weight. There were no excuses to be put on the table. He came off of three wins.”

Added Brook, “Never in my career, nobody has ever done that to me in sparring or anything.
 
“It was one of them… I got caught with a shot I didn’t see. I’m gutted because nobody could’ve gotten me in better condition. I was bang on the limit. Maybe I could’ve been a bit more relaxed and loose and let the shots go.”

The only saving grace for the game and talented brooks was that he went home $2 million richer.

Top Rank chairman Bob Arum said, “Terence Crawford showed, once again, why he is the best welterweight in the world. It was a dominating performance over a very good fighter in Kell Brook. Terence ranks up there with all the great welterweights I’ve promoted.”

Franco-Moloney 2 Ends in Controversy

In one of the strangest events in recent boxing history, Joshua Franco, of San Antonio, Texas,  and Andrew Moloney, of Melbourne, Australia,  fought to a no-decision thereby permitting Franco to retain his WBA jr. bantamweight title.

In a fight that saw Moloney, 114.7,  stabbing his jab at the Champion Franco, and throwing punches in bunches to his head and midsection, the Australian appeared dominant and on the top of his game. 

Then trouble emerged after Moloney connected with some hard blows to the right eye of Franco, 114.5, The champion’s eyed swelled almost immediately prompting referee to  Russell Mora to seemingly incorrectly rule that there was an accidental headbutt. 

In round two, Moloney, (21-1, 14 KO’s) who was trying to avenge the loss of his title to Franco last June, continued his two-fisted assault as Franco battled heroically through his quickly closing eye. At the end of the round, the ring doctor stopped the fight.

After a 26-minute replay review, controversy reigned supreme. WBA super flyweight world champion Joshua Franco, (17-1-2, 1ND, 8 KO’s) retained title via no decision over Andrew Moloney. Franco dethroned Moloney back in June via unanimous decision, and in the rematch, Moloney controlled the first two rounds before the bout was stopped. The injury sustained by Franco in the first round caused the fight to be halted following the conclusion of the second.

Moloney said, “They took this away from me. The injury was caused by a punch. I can’t believe this.
 
“I was in control of the fight and on my way to a clear victory. I deserved this win. I landed 50 punches on that eye. It was not even close.”
 
Added Arum, “This is an absolute disgrace. There was no head butt.  Andrew Moloney should be the new champion.”

In undercard bouts:

Bantamweight: Joshua Greer Jr. (22-2-2, 12 KOs) Majority Draw 8 Rounds Edwin Rodriguez (11-5-2, 5 KOs). Scores: 77-75 Rodriguez and 76-76 2x. Noted spoiler Rodriguez nearly pulled another upset, but Greer closed the bout strong to salvage the draw. Rodriguez is 2-0-2 in his last four fights, all of which came against undefeated fighters.Middleweight: Tyler Howard (19-0, 11 KOs) UD 8 KeAndrae Leatherwood (22-8-1, 13 KOs). Scores: 77-73, 77-74 and 76-74. “Hercules” Howard returned from a nearly 18-month layoff to pick up the most significant victory of his career. In a closely contested bout, Howard dropped Leatherwood in the closing stages of the eighth round to clinch the decision.

Featherweight: Duke Ragan (3-0, 1 KO) UD 4 Sebastian Gutierrez (2-1-1). Scores: 40-35 2x. Ragan, a top prospect from Cincinnati, Ohio, cruised to the win after knocking down Gutierrez in the second round.

Bantamweight: Vegas Larfield (2-0, 2 KOs) TKO 3 Juan Alberto Flores (2-1-1), 1:07. Larfield, who trained with Andrew Moloney to prepare for this bout, made a memorable American debut, scoring two knockdowns in the third round. Entering the third round, two judges had the fight even, while the third had Flores ahead 20-18.

Lightweight: Raymond Muratalla (11-0, 9 KOs) TKO 3 Luis Porozo (15-5, 8 KOs), 2:40. Muratalla upped his KO streak to six with a statement-making performance over the former Ecuadorian Olympian. Muratalla, who is trained by Robert Garcia, notched a pair of knockdowns in the third round.

Photos courtesy of  Top Rank

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There is a New Lightweight Sheriff in Town

Teofimo Lopez Topples Vasiliy Lomachenko to become the undisputed Lightweight Champion of the world
Barboza Decisions Saucedo in the Co-Feature

By Alexander R. Rinaldi

LAS VEGAS (October 17, 2020) — There is a new undisputed lightweight king in this crazy year of 2020 – and it is 23 year old Teofimo Lopez, of Brooklyn, New York.

Against virtually all odds (Lomachenko was a solid 4-1 betting favorite going into the bout), the young Lopez rather easily wrested away all the lightweight belts by defeating the highly heralded Vasiliy Lomachenko, of Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi, Ukraine, by unanimous decision in a superstar-making performance Saturday evening from the MGM Grand Conference Center.

With the glorious win, Lopez (16-0, 12 KO’s) became the youngest undisputed champion (23) in the four-belt (WBA, WBO, IBF, and WBC) era.

Not only did he defeat the once formidable Lomachenko, Lopez actually won by wide margins (119-109, 118-110 and 116-112), fulfilling the rather strange prophecy of his father/trainer, Teofimo Lopez Sr., who predicted, like a gypsy fortune teller, quite some time ago, that his son would become the undisputed champion by his 16th professional fight. With the apparent success of his fortune telling,  his father may soon have his face plastered on crystal balls and gypsy tents throughout the globe.

After the surprising loss, Lomachenko (14-2, 10 KOs – 20-2, 10 KO including World Series of Boxing Contests), a three-weight world champion, saw his 13-bout winning streak come to an end.

The reasons for the outcome are still being weighed, but as for the Russian Lomachenko, the problem was that he came into the bout sluggish and without any real fire in either his belly or his fists.

It was probably due to the fact that he had not entered the prize ring in fighting trunks in over 14 months. In his last bout, Lomachenko faced fellow 2012 Olympic gold medalist Luke Campbell on August 31, 2019, at the O2 Arena in London, England. There, in front of a sold-out crowd of over 18,000, Lomachenko not only retained the WBA and WBO titles, he also captured the vacant WBC lightweight title by defeating Campbell by unanimous decision.

Well, fast forward those nearly 14 months and entering the ring against the reigning IBF lightweight champion Lopez, Lomachenko appeared as if he had either awakened from being in suspended animation or from a deep hibernation. Either way he threw less punches than  a man tied to a wagon.

While Lopez came out brave, quick, and confident, stabbing the elusive Lomachenko with swift  jabs and combinations to the head and body, Lomachenko started out with the fury of a pastor at a prayer meeting.

To make matters worse, his PunchStat numbers were similar to those of a sheep herder as he landed only 25 punches of a mere 58 thrown in rounds one to six. Though he did pick up the pace significantly in rounds seven through twelve, still by the fight’s end he only landed a total of 141 punches out of 321 thrown, compared to Lopez who landed 183 punches out of 659 thrown.

To his credit, Lopez maintained his pressure and was the aggressor throughout the bout. Even when Lomachenko eventually came back to life in the second half of the bout, Lopez met him nearly punch for punch and never ever backed down. Nor was he ever intimidated by Lomachenko, especially  when the the older fighter bounced combinations off Lopez’s jaw out of his southpaw stance, particularly in rounds six and eleven, and started giving him various angles and bouncy footwork.

“I had to dig deep, man,” said a jubilant Lopez after the bout. “I’m thankful. I’m grateful. And each and every day, I take that in. I thank God first because I couldn’t do it without him.”

As for sticking to his game plan in the second half of the bout, Lopez remarked, “I’m a fighter. I gotta dig in deep. I knew he was coming. I didn’t know if they had him up on the scorecards or not, and I love to fight. I can bang, too. I don’t care, man. I’ll take one to give one. That’s what a true champion does. I find a way to win…You just gotta keep pressuring him, press the gas, stick the jab and don’t really give him that opportunity to set up. Every time he did want to throw, I had something ready for him.”

All cheers for the young Lopez. Unlike many others who have faced Lomachenko in the past and came up empty handed, Lopez grabbed the brass ring after throwing down the gauntlet in round one and never looked back. His perseverance, skill, and guts should be applauded throughout the ages.

As for Lomachenko, he will have to go back to the drawing board, something that he has not had to do in many years. “I think in the first half of the fight, he got more rounds than I did,” Lomachenko said. “But then in the second half of the fight, I took it over and I was much better. I want to go home and to review the fight to see. I can’t comment right now much about it. But I definitely am not agreeing with the scorecards. At the moment I think (I won the fight). But the result is the result. I’m not going to argue right now.”

Lomanchenko will most likely return. The great ones always do.

The USA Boxing News scored the bout 115-113 for Lopez.

Barboza Decisions Saucedo

In a battle of junior welterweight contenders, the unbeaten Arnold Barboza Jr. (25-0, 10 KOs) notched the most significant win of his career, surviving a knockdown to defeat former world title challenger Alex “El Cholo” Saucedo (30-2, 19 KOs) via 10-round unanimous decision. Barboza, ranked in the top 10 by two of the major sanctioning bodies, now has his sights on a world title shot.

Barboza said, “This was like a championship fight to me. It’s all because of my father {head trainer Arnold Barboza Sr.}, not me. I did this for kids and my father. My dream is to get a house for my kids. I came that much closer today.
 
“I want a championship fight. No more messing around. No more tune-up fights.”

KO King Berlanga Does it Again

He did it again. Super middleweight destroyer Edgar “The Chosen One” Berlanga knocked out Lanell Bellows in 79  seconds, the 15th first-round knockout to begin his career. Bellows (20-6-3, 13 KOs) had never been knocked out in an eight-year pro career. After the knockout, Berlanga climbed to a neutral corner and proclaimed to the Bubble audience, “I’m a fuc*ing monster!”

Berlanga said, “I saw with the first shot that I cut him open and the look in his eyes, he didn’t want to be in there. From the beginning, once I got in the ring, I looked in his eyes… he didn’t want to be in there. So I had to get him out.”

This Berlanga is certainly a fighter to keep an eye on. He has tools of a ring assassin and a punch like a mule. All he needs is more time in the ring to sharpen his skills so he can hang in there with the top contenders that he will inevitably be meeting in the next year or so.

In the undercard bouts:

Jr. Welterweight: Josue Vargas (18-1, 9 KOs) UD 10 Kendo Castaneda (17-3, 8 KOs). Scores: 100-89, 99-91, 98-90. Vargas graduated to contender status with a one-sided domination over Castaneda, who was coming off a competitive decision loss to Jose “Chon” Zepeda. He has won 12 straight fights since a disqualification defeat.

Vargas said, “He was a tough customer, tougher than I thought he was going to be, but my father told me to stay composed, stay calm. I dropped him, but that doesn’t mean nothing, just stay relaxed because that’s how I got disqualified when I was 18 years old.
 
“I’m very close to fighting these guys, like Zepeda, Pedraza, any of these guys. You name it, I’ll get in there with them.”

Featherweight: Jose Enrique Vivas (20-1, 11 KOs) TKO 1 John Vincent Moralde (23-4, 13 KOs), 1:16. Vivas blitzed Moralde, knocking down the Filipino contender twice en route to the early stoppage. The second knockdown was a body blow that prompted referee Celestino Ruiz to halt the fight without a count.

Welterweight: Quinton Randall (7-0, 2 KOs) UD 6 Jan Carlos Rivera (4-1, 4 KOs). Scores: 58-56 2X and 59-55. In a battle of unbeatens, Randall swept the last four rounds on two of the judges’ scorecards to prevail.

Welterweight: Jahi Tucker (2-0, 1 KO) UD 4 Charles Garner (1-1). Scores: 40-36, 3X. The 17-year-old Tucker, who scored a first-round knockout in his professional debut last month, went the distance and cruised to a decision win against Garner, a native of Buffalo, N.Y.

(Photo Credit: Mikey Williams/Top Rank)

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Roberto Duran vs. Sugar Ray Leonard I

The Brawl in Montreal

June 20, 1980

• -Thoughts 40 Years Later-

By John Rinaldi, Salvatore Alaimo, and Alex Rinaldi

On June 20, 1980, three cousins, future USA Boxing News Editors and Publishers John and Alex Rinaldi and their cousin Salvatore Alaimo, who became Head Writer for The USA Boxing News, were on hand for the Immortal Roberto Duran vs. Sugar Ray Leonard Brawl in Montreal, along with Joseph Rinaldi, the founder of The USA Boxing News.

Of course, the four of them all picked to Duran to win.

In turned out to be a watershed moment for the four of them as they would afterwards take the excitement of that fight and start the publishing of The USA Boxing News two years later in 1982.

Below are some thoughts of the surviving three – John Rinaldi, Salvatore Alaimo, and Alex Rinaldi, forty years after that landmark fight, from e-mail correspondences.

It is a great indication and collection of what fight fans do throughout the world discussing fights of the past.

John Rinaldi

Well, tonight represents the 40th Anniversary of the Best Night Ever of my lifetime, with Roberto Duran’s win over Sugar Ray Leonard. In all my years of watching fights, no bout I have ever seen beats it. The only one that would have come close was if Joe Frazier came out for the 15th round against Muhammad Ali in the “Thriller in Manila” to KO Ali. Since that did not happen, then Duran’s win is the highlight of my life.

People can say all they want about hypes for boxing events and anticipation. All I can remember in my life are three bouts that had the world’s interest, and actually exceeded everyone’s expectations – and those were Frazier-Ali I, Ali-Frazier III and Duran-Leonard I.

On that night on June 20, 2020, all I remember is my beloved father, you two guys and Sal’s friends going crazy as Duran showed up in the best condition of his life to face off with Sugar Ray Leonard. Later the way Leonard took apart Hearns and Hagler, it makes Duran’s great win even more impressive. NO ONE in the history of the welterweight division (also go from lightweight to middleweight) would have beaten Duran that night.

Credit must be given to Leonard for lasting out the full 15 rounds, when I believe if it were Tommy Hearns that night, Hearns would have been KO’d.

Of course another thing that made that night special was the presence of my beloved Dad right there with us cheering at every punch Duran smashed into Leonard. Afterwards, when we were all hugging each other, I have never been so happy. I think you guys and my father felt the same way.

It is sad that our parents are gone and Duran has grown old and no longer fights. I believe that no fighter has ever taken his place with the mixture of charisma, ferocity and punching power that he had.

So as this day goes on, I think of you guys, Duran and my father. For one brief evening, everything in the world stopped and we were mesmerized for 60 minutes. It is rare when after all the planning and anticipation, that an outcome could turn out so perfect. Life is not like that, but that night certainly was.

It took only one fearsome boxer and all of us together to make the ultimate lifetime memory.

 Salvatore Alaimo

Reading the boxing magazines and seeing the interviews leading up to the fight built up so my anticipation and excitement in me about that fight, at age 15. It was definitely one of the greatest nights of my life, too. Yes, he was in awesome shape and was relentless. I don’t think anyone would have beaten him that night either. The judges’ scorecards did not come close to reflecting the fight.

Yes, we felt the same way as your Dad. It was great to have him with us and I enjoyed seeing how elated he was.  I was on a high for several days afterwards. The Garden was sold out, and I remember the railing next to me shaking when the crowd cheered. Epic, titanic and thrilling.

There hasn’t been anyone like Duran since and there will never be. His accomplishments were remarkable. My Dad used to have a saying about people he admired very much, like your Dad that he shared with me. “Son, they don’t make them like that anymore.” They don’t. 

We have heard many times that Sugar Ray’s ego got in the way and he decided to brawl with Duran instead of boxing, as if the assumption was if be boxed he would have won. Rarely, if ever is it mentioned that Leonard had no choice that night in Montreal. He wasn’t dictating the fight, Duran was by relentlessly stalking him and cutting off the ring. That’s the more accurate narrative, so I think the American sportswriters got it wrong. Think about Ali, the all-time master at being a boxer. Certain fighters, like Frazier and a few others pressured him enough that Ali’s ability to dictate the fight, especially pacing, was taken away.

I want to express again my appreciation for you pushing us to go to that fight. To see our hero and idol perform at the height of his powers was awesome. 

Thanks for reminding us of how great that June night at the Garden for what was then the most anticipated sporting event of that time. It broke the all-time closed circuit record for any fight.

We will reflect again on June 16, 2023 for the 40th anniversary of another special evening.

 Alex Rinaldi

The fight was certainly the greatest night of my life too.

It was one of those nights where all the stars align to form something wonderful.

It also involved arguably two of the greatest boxers who ever laced on a pair of gloves. To make a great fight it takes two special fighters to engage in an all-out combat war.

That’s what made this one monumental. They both gave and both took powerful punches for 15 thrilling rounds.

Duran was at best of bests, virtually unbeatable that night. No one in any era would have been able to beat him. He had the speed, punching power, and great defense to demolish all comers, which he did to Leonard.

What made it mostly memorable was that our father was there. Before the fight some big guys behind us were touting how Sugar Ray was going to kill Duran.

Then when Duran staggered Leonard in round 2 my dad turned to them and shouted, “There’s your Sugar Ray!!”

It is the comment that has become folklore in our family, and has forever immortalized my father in the hearts and minds of our family and to the readers of The USA Boxing News.

Life is filled with so many ups and downs and many losses, but on one night 40 years ago Roberto Duran carried the torch to victory in the greatest fight and night of his legendary career. With that notable and astonishing victory, he took all of us with him to bask and share in the glory, a glory so brilliant and everlasting that had it never happened our lives would have never been the same.

How could we not be grateful forever to Roberto Duran when he gave us so much joy that his wins have become benchmark events of our lives.

Salvatore Alaimo

I remember those guys sitting behind us.

On the significance of Duran’s place in our life and of that fight and that night, Amen Cousin John.

John Rinaldi

Thanks for your great stories. Of Course, I put on YouTube and watched the full Wide World of Sports replay of it with Howard Cosell with the pre- and post-fight interviews. Duran is funny in them.  Cosell did the best commentary of that fight. Besides that great left hook in Round Two, Duran staggered Leonard a few times with right hands in subsequent rounds.

Later when he fought Moore and Barkley, the three of us where there in person at ringside to make up the #2 and #3 greatest nights of our lives.

Epilogue

Joseph Rinaldi passed away in September 1983.

Roberto Duran would supply us with the next two great events of our lives – Roberto Duran vs. Davey Moore in 1983 and Roberto Duran vs. Iran “The Blade” Barkley in 1989.

Prior to the fight beginning the legendary broadcaster Howard Cosell, after mentioning Sugar Ray Leonard’s great achievements coming into the fight,  wryly remarked, “… Duran, Leonard hasn’t faced the likes of him.”  

Well, it is fair to say that no one who ever graced the pized the ring at any time in the history of the sport, ever faced the likes of a fighter like that June 20, 1980 Roberto Duran.

ESPN airs BE WATER  a 30 For 30 documentary on  Bruce Lee 

By Alexander Rinaldi and Joseph Rinaldi

With sports disappearing from the airways quicker than tourists from a leper colony, the sports network giant ESPN has been scrambling trying to fill its entertainment time slots with anything even remotely resembling sports.

Thankfully for them, the network’s June’s schedule heads into kind of martial arts territory with the documentary Be Water, which has been described as “an intimate look at the life and motivations of martial arts legend Bruce Lee.”

According to reports, “Be Water is a gripping, fascinating, intimate look at not just the final, defining years of Lee’s life, but the complex, often difficult, and seismic journey that led to Lee’s ultimate emergence as a singular icon in the histories of film, martial arts, and even the connection between the eastern and western worlds.”

The movie was initially intended to be screened at the South by Southwest film festival back in March after a premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, but the entire event was canceled due to this horrible COVID virus. Because of this, instead of the limited handful that would have been viewing the documentary at these limited viewed film festivals,  now everyone will enjoy the television premiere of the film directed by Bao Nguyen on June 7.

The film chronicles Lee’s earliest days, as the son of a Chinese opera star born while his father was on tour in San Francisco, and then raised in Hong Kong over what became at times a troubled childhood.

Bruce Lee then was sent to live in America at the age of 18, and he began teaching Kung Fu in Seattle, and soon established a following that included his future wife, Linda. His ambition ever rising, Lee eventually made his way to Los Angeles, where he took a crack at breaking into American film and television.

Although Lee found some success as an actor in such iconic shows as The Green Hornet, where his super hero character of Kato became a relative household name to children and adults in America, and especially in Asian countries such as Hong Kong, somehow stupid Hollywood was not yet ready for an Asian leading man.  When he was eventually offered a lucrative movie deal in Hong Kong, Lee returned to his former homeland to make the films that would in fact go on to make him a legend. His success in Hong Kong soon swept across the ocean to America where his success became a supernova, especially after the posthumous release of the movie Enter The Dragon in 1973 that catapulted him to realms of an eternal iconic flame . 

Be Water is told entirely by the family, friends, and collaborators who knew Bruce Lee best, with an extraordinary trove of archive film providing an evocative, immersive visual tapestry that captures Lee’s charisma, his passion, his philosophy, and the eternal beauty and wonder of his art.

So enduring has his fame remained that two statues, one in Hong Kong, and the other in Los Angeles’ Chinatown section, have been erected to honor in perpetuity the truly original and one and only Bruce Lee.

The legendary Bruce Lee and his boxing background and legacy

From the squared ring – to Kato in The Green Hornet – and finally Enter the Dragon

Story by Alex and John Rinaldi

Without question, the greatest and most famous Kung Fu fighter and Martial Arts artist of all-time was Bruce Lee (1940-1973). So much so, that even 47 years after his untimely death, his name, likeness, and legend still remain in the psyche and minds of the public. He was and still remains the eternal tough guy, with hands and feet that were faster than light, athleticism beyond that of most gifted athletes and an attitude that knows only how to win and win big.

He is not only considered one of the most influential pop icons of the 20th century, but fellow martial arts artist and action film star Jackie Chan, who also had a small part in the film Enter the Dragon, compared Bruce Lee to a “super hero.”

That is why it is not unusual to see his poster, usually the one from his legendary film Enter the Dragon, adorn the walls of college dormitories, frat houses, and martial arts centers across the world.

Bruce Lee’s nickname from childhood to all through adulthood was the “Little Dragon,” and he studied Wing Chun Kung Fu with Yip Man and later revolutionized martial arts with jeet kune do. His version of martial arts was exciting and it thrilled audiences from his days as Kato in the famous 1960’s television series The Green Hornet to his final film The Game of Death. Of course, it was not the martial arts he utilized that made him famous – it was he who made martial arts famous.

More importantly, it was also his lifelong love of and respect of the sport of boxing that helped him to establish his singular and unique form of fighting.

Dan lnosanto and Richard Bustillo, two of Bruce Lee’s most famous students, described the connection between boxing and Bruce Lee’s jeet kune do. “That’s how Bruce Lee developed jeet kune do. He put all the arts together,” said Bustillo. “Kicking distance, he taught, comes first. You have the longest reach with your feet. Close the kicking range and you’re in hand distance. Bruce Lee was first a martial artist, and he went out of his way to prove that he really had a method of fighting, that it was as disciplined and more scientific than the older, classical arts.”

Dan Inosanto agreed, “Most people aren’t aware of it, but Bruce Lee was very into boxing. Scientific boxing,” said Inosanto.

The “Little Dragon” competed in boxing matches throughout high school and compiled a record of 8-0 (8 KOs).  In 1958, while a high school student at St. Francis Xavier in Hong Kong, Bruce Lee had a reputation of getting into fights in and out of school. He also had a reputation of never losing a single one of them. Because of this Brother Edward, who was one of Lee’s teachers, suggested that Bruce join the school’s boxing team so that the youngster could better channel his fighting spirit in a more productive and positive way.

Loving the sport of boxing as he did, Lee joined the team. Before Bruce became a member of the team, his high school’s arch rival was another private school named King George V School made up entirely of British boys who had embraced boxing since they were toddlers. They also were famous for taunting and making fun of the Chinese youths who were enrolled at St. Francis Xavier.

Because of this, the King George V School’s boxing team continually reigned as the boxing champions of the province.

The most gifted boxer of them all was Gary Elms, a British tough, who was not only undefeated, but also considered the best high school boxer in the entire country. He also happened to be at the weight of St. Francis Xavier’s newest boxing recruit Bruce Lee.

Although Bruce Lee was a member of the boxing team, he still continued his martial arts training with Wong Shun Leung and Wing Chun. By the time the Boxing Tournament began on March 29, 1958, Lee was in superb condition. The preliminary matches were first and continued until only two boys were left in each weight class. Then, the two remaining boys would fight for the championship.

Bruce Lee fought three preliminary bouts and won them Dan Inosanto agreed, “Most people aren’t aware of it, but Bruce Lee was very into boxing. Scientific boxing,” said Inosanto.

The “Little Dragon” competed in boxing matches throughout high school and compiled a record of 8-0 (8 KO’s).  In 1958, while a high school student at St. Francis Xavier in Hong Kong, Bruce Lee had a reputation of getting into fights in and out of school. He also had a distinction of never losing a single one of them. Because of this, Brother Edward, who was one of Lee’s teachers, suggested that Bruce join the school’s boxing team so that the youngster could better channel his natural fighting spirit in a more productive and positive way.

Loving the sport of boxing as he did, Lee joined the team.  Before Bruce was a member of the squad, his high school’s arch rival was another private school named King George V School, made up primarily of cocky British boys, who had embraced boxing since they were toddlers. They also were famous for taunting and making fun of the Chinese youths who were enrolled at St. Francis Xavier. Because of this, the King George V School’s boxing team continually reigned as the pugilistic champions of the province.

The most gifted boxer of them all was Gary Elms, a British tough, who was not only undefeated, but also considered the best high school boxer in the entire country. He also happened to be at the same weight of St. Francis Xavier’s newest boxing recruit – Bruce Lee.

Although Bruce was a member of the boxing team, he still continued his martial arts training with Wong Shun Leung and Wing Chun. As a result, by the time the Boxing Tournament began on March 29, 1958, Lee was in superb condition. The preliminary matches were first and continued until only two boys were left in each weight class. Then, the two remaining boxers would fight for the championship.

Lee fought three preliminary bouts and won them all by first-round knockouts! This brought him to the final bout against none other than the dreaded Gary Elms, who was feared by everyone, everyone that is, except for Bruce Lee.Knowing that Bruce was new to boxing, never having seen him before at a tournament, or in a match prior to the 1958 Championships, Elms felt confident that his superior experience and boxing skills would help to win the title for the fourth straight year, and once again he believed that he would vanquish his foe by a devastating knockout.

Elms went after Lee in the first round crowding him to the ropes and trying to land the big knockout punch. Bruce was initially surprised by the excessive aggression and tried to back up out of harm’s way.

In round two, Lee figured out his rival’s strategy and used Wing Chun learned blocks to make Elms miss, or hit only his gloves. He also began to counter punch the Brit, who was beginning to become frustrated at failing to hit his target.

In round three, Bruce, using his superior hand speed, went for the knockout. Before a  crowd of students and adults on hand, Lee, showing blazing hand quickness and with no mercy, went after Elms and blasted him with punches that Gary later said were “so fast they seemed like blurs.” To the shock of those on hand, especially the British contingent who was there to watch Elms win for the fourth straight time, Lee brutally knocked the Brit down and out to the canvas for the count of ‘ten.”

On account of Bruce’s win, his school went on to win the Boxing Title for the very first time and made the Chinese boys proud that one of their own had been so victorious, especially over a British lad.

When Bruce Lee eventually left Hong Kong to go to America in 1959, he left as both the 1958 School Boxing Champion and the 1958 Crown Colony Cha Cha Champion of Hong Kong

As an adult, Bruce Lee further studied boxing techniques, which he claimed later influenced his Jeet Kune Do punches. In his book The Tao of Jeet Kune Do, which is a compilation of his personal notes, Lee wrote that he relied heavily on boxing principles in his martial arts. Lee referenced Jack Dempsey and Edwin L. Haislet’s book titled Boxing (1940) at least twenty times, and Lee also reportedly owned more than a hundred boxing books in his own private library.

Besides a vast boxing book collection, Bruce Lee owned one of the largest collections of fight films in the country and would often invite friends over to view them with him. It was said that Lee knew punches and styles of all the great and legendary champions from Kid Gavilan’s “bolo punch” to the six-inch punches of Joe Louis and Rocky Marciano, to the dazzling footwork of Willie Pep and Muhammad Ali.

According former heavyweight contender and Superman Villain Jack O’Halloran, who was also a very close friend of Bruce Lee, whenever a boxing move caught his interest, Lee, who was a southpaw, would rewind the film, then stand and turn his back to watch it in a mirror, and practice it till he got it right. Besides that, O’Halloran remarked that, “Bruce Lee would venture into the toughest areas of various cities and start a fight with gang members in order to enhance his fighting skills. Sometimes he would beat up more than ten guys at a time.”

On account of his boxing background, Bruce Lee radically changed martial arts forever. He was the first martial arts artist to disregard the traditional stance and, instead, engage and use a boxer’s stance. Lee, in effect, soon developed a new and dynamic style that would literally transcend martial arts fighting forever and also be and remain forever his trademark stance and fighting style. The very same one that would make Bruce Lee an icon for the ages.

As Bruce said about both life and his fighting style, “Adapt what is useful, reject what is useless, and add what is specifically your own.”

The Sweet Science of boxing, as it has done throughout history, caused the emergence of a Chinese Superstar. Never before in the history of Motion Pictures or sports, had an Asian athlete and film actor ever ascend into the stratosphere of commercial and cultural success. In turn, he changed Western culture and the landscape therein forever.

Lee learned from Western culture, especially from boxing, and then confronted it. “In the United States,” he said, “Something about the Oriental, the true Oriental, should be shown.” And because of Bruce Lee, it was.

When children of the 1960’s watched television’s The Green Hornet, they were amazed by the fighting style of Kato played by Bruce Lee. He did things no one had ever seen before and everyone soon wanted to be just like him. He was the main focus of The Green Hornet and why most tuned into the show. Later on, when it was re-broadcast in Hong Kong as The Kato Show, Lee’s popularity exploded and he went there to begin what would soon become the emergence and birth of Kung Fu movies.

When American film companies saw the success of his Hong King films that were being shown in America, they decided to have Lee star in the American produced Enter the Dragon. With his fighting exploits, rock hard body, and nunchucks expertise, Bruce Lee became a legend, then eventually an icon, where he remains to this day.

Lee once said, “The key to immortality is first living a life worth remembering.” Because of his fame and his exploits, his life became a life worth remembering, and with it he achieved the key to immortality.

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‘… I think I’ve put up a good fight’: Dallas boxing icon and former World Welterweight champion and Boxing Hall of Famer Curtis Cokes dies at 82

By Henry Hascup

Courtesy of The Dallas Morning News

Curtis Cokes, Dallas’ first world champion and the undisputed soul of the city’s boxing scene for more than a half-century, died Friday of heart failure at 82.

Cokes had been in hospice for a week, said Erwin “Sparky” Sparks, his partner at the Home of Champions gym.

Back in the day before titles were divided and sub-divided, Cokes held the world welterweight title from 1966-69. Quincy Taylor, who trained under Cokes, and DeSoto’s Errol Spence are the only Dallas-area boxers to win world titles since.

Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2003, Cokes, a classic counterpuncher at 5-8, 147 pounds, wasn’t wildly popular among fight fans because he wasn’t a brawler. That was by design.

“The name of the sport is boxing, not fighting,” Cokes told The Dallas Morning News in 2013. “You can play football, you can play basketball, but you can’t play boxing. It’s serious business where you can get hurt every time you step into the ring.

“It’s an art to hit and not be hit.”

Artist or not, Cokes could hit.

 “He wanted the other guy to make a mistake,” said Steve Crosson, a longtime ring official. “And when he unloaded that right hand, he was devastating.”

Cokes came of age in an era when black fighters weren’t allowed to compete in Golden Gloves. His progress also was likely hindered by the fact that he didn’t work under a world-class trainer or promoter.

Cokes got by on his natural athleticism — he was all-state in basketball as well as baseball at Booker T. Washington, played shortstop on a traveling semipro baseball team and once got a tryout with the Dodgers — and his intuitive ring smarts.

Fighting primarily at the old Sportatorium or Memorial Auditorium, Cokes worked his way up the ladder slowly. He had 27 bouts in Texas, including one in Mexico, before earning a spot on a big-time card. He lost to Luis Rodriguez but gained a fan in Rodriguez’s trainer, Angelo Dundee, who also worked with a young heavyweight named Cassius Clay. Dundee told Cokes he’d like to train him, too, but he’d have to move to Miami. Cokes would also receive invitations to train in St. Louis, Houston and Los Angeles. He remained in his hometown instead.

On Aug. 24, 1966, he finally got his big chance: a unanimous 15-round decision over Manny Gonzalez for the vacant World Boxing Association welterweight title. He added the World Boxing Council title three months later when he won a 15-round unanimous decision over France’s Jean Josselin at Memorial Auditorium.

Cokes got by on his natural athleticism — he was all-state in basketball as well as baseball at Booker T. Washington, played shortstop on a traveling semipro baseball team and once got a tryout with the Dodgers — and his intuitive ring smarts.

Fighting primarily at the old Sportatorium or Memorial Auditorium, Cokes worked his way up the ladder slowly. He had 27 bouts in Texas, including one in Mexico, before earning a spot on a big-time card. He lost to Luis Rodriguez but gained a fan in Rodriguez’s trainer, Angelo Dundee, who also worked with a young heavyweight named Cassius Clay. Dundee told Cokes he’d like to train him, too, but he’d have to move to Miami. Cokes would also receive invitations to train in St. Louis, Houston and Los Angeles. He remained in his hometown instead.

On Aug. 24, 1966, he finally got his big chance: a unanimous 15-round decision over Manny Gonzalez for the vacant World Boxing Association welterweight title. He added the World Boxing Council title three months later when he won a 15-round unanimous decision over France’s Jean Josselin at Memorial Auditorium.

Nearly 50 years after the fact, Dickie Cole, who refereed Cokes’ win, called the night of Nov. 28, 1966, “maybe the most memorable in Dallas’ boxing history.”

“Curtis wasn’t a punk kid who won the title,” Cole told The News in 2013. “He was almost 30 years old and had paid his dues. He struggled to get there. Dallas never did him any favors. And there he was with that hammer he had for a right hand, winning as our champion.”

Only 6,000 showed up at Memorial Auditorium to see the hometown champ add another belt. The city’s ruling class was slow to embrace its first world champ. Only after the intervention of the Dallas Cowboys and the team’s black players in particular did the city fete Cokes with a parade.

“If he had been white,” former Cowboy Willie Townes told The News in 1987, “I’m sure he would have been the toast of the town.”

Cokes fought 13 times while he held the title before losing to Jose Napoles at the Forum in Los Angeles on April 18, 1969. His right eye closed, Cokes was unable to get up for the bell for the 14th round. He lost the rematch, too.

“He didn’t whip me so good the first time,” Cokes joked to Laurence Cole, “so I went back for seconds.”

Laurence Cole, Dickie’s son, trained under Cokes before embarking on a career as a world-class referee.

“He was a classy man,” Laurence Cole said. “Look at the times he grew through, what he struggled through, yet he was never bitter.”

Said Crosson: “He was always a consummate gentleman, without ego. Just a very fine person.”

Cokes went 62-14-4, according to boxrec.com. Once his career was over, Cokes trained many young fighters at his gym, including Kirk Johnson, a Canadian heavyweight who challenged for the WBA title in 2002. Cokes even owned a Dallas nightclub. But financial problems plagued him. The Internal Revenue Service once confiscated his entire purse, $11,000, to pay back taxes. Near the end of a career that covered 80 fights, he filed for bankruptcy.

He took it all in stride, including the slights, and said he had no regrets.

“I have done things my way my whole life because that’s the way it had to be,” he said in 2013. “On the other hand, I never had to take orders from anyone.

“And I think I’ve put up a good fight.”

Cokes is survived by two brothers, Joe and Robert, a sister, Mary Helen Cokes, and five children. Funeral services are pending.

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A Holiday Memory

Roberto Duran and our Father

By John and Alex Rinaldi

Going into Christmas, we cannot thank our readers enough for their continued support of our website and our boxing publication for over 37 years.

Robert Duran (R) vs. Davey Moore (L) (Photo by Alex Rinaldi)

In an almost magical and mythical way, the sport of boxing and its fans have, since the days of the bare knucklers, established a special, lasting bond that somehow connects the viewer to the participants in the ring. It is also the type of sport that can lift one’s spirits, especially when life’s misfortunes and personal tragedies can tend to swirl around like a deadly tempest raining down on everything and everyone until all that’s left is despair and sadness.

No one is ever spared from this, and even the warmest of holidays often play a part in the the overall melancholy of the time.  We  are  certainly  not  immune  to  this  feeling  and  loss. Roberto Duran (L) slugging Pipino Cuevas (R) in 1983

Christmas was such a time 37 years ago, and it remains to this day a bittersweet holiday for us.

Growing up we had wonderful Christmas days and we still do to this day. There was, however, a Christmas where our world simply fell apart.  Robert Duran (L) looking for an opening against Davey Moore (R) (Photo by Alex Rinaldi)

On Christmas Eve in 1982, in our house in Stuart, Florida, our Father, and the founder of this publication, Joseph Rinaldi, was diagnosed with terminal liver and colon cancer and was given only three months to live. For a few months before the diagnosis, he was suffering from intestinal pains and was losing weight. He actually thought at the worse that he had an ulcer. Sadly, he found out that at the age of 46, his days, like a prisoner on death row, were mortally numbered.

For a man who had achieved such phenomenal success in his life, it was hard to fathom that this great man’s final days were to be spent battling for his life.

There is a famous quote by the legendary Confederate General Robert E. Lee where he says, “I would rather die a thousand deaths than surrender.” Our Father had what can only be termed as “true grit” as he fought bravely on, challenging the cancer along with the naysayers and charlatans so prevalent in the medical community. Though death greeted him at his doorstop every day for nine long months, he still kept punching back until he eventually succumbed to the deadly cancer on September 23, 1983.

John and Alex Rinaldi with Roberto Duran in 1982

When you watch a person that you admire suffer so badly, who is not just a father, but a mentor and a hero, it is hard to bear and for those like us going through it, the world tends to lose all its color and replaces it with the funereal pallor of black.

But sometimes were there is nothing but black and bleakness, miracles and heroes seem to emerge through the darkness, and for a brief time a short reprieve is granted to the forlorn.

Robert Duran (L) pounding Davey Moore (R) (Photo by Alex Rinaldi)

This is what happened to us. A savior arrived in the form of Roberto Duran and boxing gave us the only streaks of light, as the sun slowly shone through the cracks caused by the mighty fists of the man with the Hands of Stone.

Roberto Duran (r) attacking Davey Moore (L) in June of 1983

Roberto Duran was always our family’s favorite fighter. From the time he became a world champion, we marveled at his skill, charisma and punching power. Because of this, he was, and remained our true boyhood hero.

Though he reached the highest heights and peaks of boxing, by 1983, the once great pugilist was considered washed up. In 1982, he went 1-2 when he lost  a title bid against WBC super welterweight king Wilfred Benitez on a close decision on January 20, 1982, and then was robbed in a split-decision loss to Kirland Laing on September 4, 1982. After two decision losses, Top Rank picked up Duran and set him back on his winning ways. It began on the Aaron Pryor-Alexis Arguello undercard on November 12, 1982. Duran was the after-fight walk-out bout where he earned $25,000 in beating Jimmy Batten on a ten-round decision.

It was during his training for Laing at Larry Holmes’ training quarters in Easton, Pennsylvania, where the Rinaldi Brothers and our dad would go to visit. Before long we became very friendly with the fistic legend, and he never failed us nor ever disappointed us. 

After the Laing fight, and nearing the end of 1982, it appeared that there was little hope in the future of the career of Roberto Duran. Nevertheless, while others urged Duran to retire, we and The USA Boxing News felt that he was far from washed up. As luck would have it, so did promoter Bob Arum.

Arum’s Top Rank, Inc. smartly took on Duran and matched him against the power punching former WBA welterweight king Pipino Cuevas on January 29, 1983 at the Sports Arena in Los Angeles, CA. While the Super Bowl was playing nearby the same week, the hottest ticket in town was for the Duran-Cuevas fight. So much so that a capacity crowd of 16,824 turned out for the fight and produced a live gate of $408,000. Both fighters were each guaranteed $50,000, plus a share of the closed circuit revenue.

In one of the most thrilling slugfests in boxing history, Duran, 152, brutally stopped Cuevas, 149, at 2:26 of fourth round of the scheduled 12-rounder. Duran was back and his heroics were just about to begin.

With the illness of our Father, we were unable to go to the fight live, but instead viewed the fight on closed-circuit at the Felt Forum in New York’s Madison Square Garden. Duran’s performance was so exhilarating that on this night our Father was able to forget about his pain and his dreaded outlook and immersed himself in the exciting ring action.

While our Father courageously battled on, Duran was set to give our Dad one more respite from his impending doom.

With the win over Cuevas, Arum decided that Duran would make a good opponent for the undefeated WBA junior middleweight king Davey Moore. The match was then set for June 16, 1983 at Madison Square Garden.

Going into the battle, this publication was the only one who gave Duran a chance to win. With a sell-out crowd of 20,191 on hand, producing an incredible live gate of $964,305 (this was at a time when the ringside seats were only $100) Duran entered the ring a 5-2 underdog.

On this night, our Father was too ill to attend and was slipping away at a rapid pace. We went in his place and were at ringside to see Duran, 152 ½, give the performance of a lifetime as he tore into Moore, 154, and ferociously pummeled him from pillar to post.

As the crowd cheered, Duran scored an incredible knockdown in the seventh round and in the next round, finished off Moore at 2:02 of Round 8.

The fight was rebroadcast on CBS on June 19, 1983 and although he was racked with pain that no medicine could subside, our Father was laying down on our living room couch and once again, his thoughts were detoured from death to watching Roberto Duran pull off the upset win. That was the last time that the pain would ever temporarily leave our Father again.

Things would go downhill from there. Our Father was such gallant battler, that we never thought he would die. It was as if Rocky Marciano could ever lose a fight. We thought our Dad would make a comeback. He did outlast all of his physicians’ predictions and held out for nine months, while the prognostications said he would be dead in 90 days.

He did it all virtually by himself. The fraudulent medical community, more interested in taking patients’ monies  for treatments just a step above the potions of snake Oil Salesmen, were both useless and greedy.  They showed the care of a rattlesnake and offered the hope of a hangman. My father had a better chance of climbing Mount Everest, than receiving any curing treatment from American physicians.

Roberto Duran training for his fight with Davey Moore in 1983 (Photo by Alex Rinaldi)

The comeback never came and three months after Duran defeated Moore, the ten-count was tolled for our father. Thankfully, because of the many who read this worldwide publication and website, his memory still lives on.

Because this publication soldiers on and thrives to this day, our Father and Roberto Duran are both almost like the Jimmy Stewart character in It’s a Wonderful Life, where Stewart realizes what an impact he had on so many people just by living his life and doing good deeds to others.

Joseph Rinaldi in December 1982

This may be an odd Christmas story because it ends in the death of an extraordinary man. But it shows that boxing and a great fighter like Roberto Duran can take away the pain of a dying man and give him a few happy moments in such bleak times, as well as offer a brief intermission from despair to his loved ones and, provide in its place, thrills and happiness during a family’s darkest hours. 

Gerard and Joseph Rinaldi in 1982

“When we recall Christmas past, we usually find that the simplest things – not the great occasions – give off the greatest glow of happiness.” ― Bob Hope.

We think of our father every Christmas Eve. Although he is gone, he is never forgotten by us and is always in our thoughts, and it is every time we think of Roberto Duran, we think about the smiles he gave to a man whose life, like a broken clock,  was running out of time.

That is what makes boxing the special sport it is.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the both of us to all of our readers.

Keep Punching!

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Great Past Fights

Manny Pacquiao Wins a split decision over Keith Thurman for WBA Welterweight title

By Ron John Rinaldi

July 21 – Las Vegas, Nevada. Boxing has a strange and twisted history when an old legendary fighter comes up against some young gunslinger. First, the younger fighter wants to knock the older fighter’s block off so he can carry the torch and force the older fighter into the bastions of yesterday and retirement. Second, the younger one feels that “today” is his time and that the older champion is a mere member of the old guard soon to be replaced by the new guard, namely himself.

Great fighters like Davey Moore, and later Iran Barkley, once shared the identical thought about Roberto Duran in the 1980’s, and Duran proved them both sadly wrong.

In this fight, the undefeated 30 year old champion Keith Thurman had the same thought in mind. This was made apparent in the pre-fight press conferences leading up to the fight where Thurman kept declaring that he, and not Pacquiao, was the best welterweight out there, and that the 40 year old ring great no longer deserved to be at the top of the welterweights. “I want to show the world that I deserve to be at the top,” exclaimed Thurman. So much so that Thurman made three bets to not only win, but to knock out Pacquiao in rounds 1, 2, or 7.

The famed gunfighter Wyatt Earp once famously said, “When you have to choose between fact and legend print the legend.”  But that underlies the fact that their legend actually derives from iconic morsels of pure and real fact. The same goes for the legendary fighter and modern day gunslinger Manny Pacquiao. 

Like Davey Moore and Iran Barkley before him, Thurman painfully learned that sometimes it is easier to can a live alligator, than it is to beat a legend. This is especially true for that young great fighter when he squares off against a legend who happens to strike lightning one more time again, and returns to his once lethal greatness.

Well, that happened here before a sellout crowd of over 14,000 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas Manny “Pac Man” Pacquiao, 146 1/2,  beat previously  undefeated WBA Welterweight Champion Keith “One-Time” Thurman via split decision to capture his title.

Going into the bout, Manny was the favorite at -150, while Thurman was the underdog at +125. Meanwhile unlike Thurman, Pacquiao’s trainer Freddie Roach wisely bet $5,000 on his man.

In an exciting give and take affair, that saw action throughout its twelve full rounds, both fighters firmly acquitted themselves well and gave the fans their money’s worth.

At the start of the fight Thurman, 146 1/2,  came out fast in round one scoring with straight rights to Pacquiao’s head and lefts to the body. Then with a 28 seconds remaining in the round, Manny raced after a retreating Thurman and landed a quick three punch combinations of right-left-right to the jaw that dropped Keith swiftly to the ring floor. Though it was a flash knockdown, it soon set the tone off the fight, which was that the 8 division world champion Pacquiao at age 40, was still a dreaded adversary to face within the ring ropes. It also gave the Filipino a 10-8 round, which would be a telling factor later when the time came for the tallying up of the scores.

Pacquiao still had the speed, both hand and foot, that he had since his younger days and even carried the punch with him as well.  Like the song he came into the ring with, Survivor’s  Eye of The Tiger, Manny never stopped punching during the bout, eventually bloodying Thurman’s nose and causing a swelling under his eyes.

To his credit, Thurman fought like the champion he is and scored well and often with straight rights, right uppercuts and lefts hooks that landed with power on his aggressive foe. For instance he stunned Manny several times in round 7, catching the Filipino legend with jarring blows to the chin and ribs, a couple of which actually stunned him.

It was just that Pacquiao threw the greater number of blows 696 to Thurman’s 571, though Thurman landed 210 to Manny’s 195. Regardless, Thurman could never catch up, though he gave it his all throughout. But his “all” on this night did not add up to be enough.

The judges scored it a close split decision with Manny winning by two judges’ scores of 115-112, while one judge gave it to Thurman by a score of 114-113. The USA Boxing News also scored it for Pacquiao by a score of 115-112.

Manny whose record upped to 62-7-2 (39 KO’s) pocketed a guaranteed $10 million plus a percentage of sales, which should bring his take up to around $20 million, said after the bout, “He [Keith Thurman] did his best, and I did my best, and i think the two of us gave the fans their money’s worth.”

Meanwhile Thurman whose record fell to a still impressive 29-1 (23 KO’s) also brought home a large guaranteed purse of $2.5 million plus a percentage of receipts, which should bring his final tally to about $8 million, was gratuitous in defeat, and said, “This was a beautiful night of boxing. Manny got the victory over me. I wish I had more output. I would love a rematch.”

 

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THE AFTERMATH

Andy Ruiz changes heavyweight history after his stunning knockout of Anthony Joshua to win the heavyweight championship

By Alex and John Rinaldi

With British flags flying throughout Madison Square Garden draping the Mecca of Boxing in the symbols and colors of the Union Jack, it appeared as if the British monarchy was staging a Royal reception on American soil.

Considering that fifty-five years ago the Beatles were barnstorming America in the second British invasion since the Revolutionary War, it now seemed again that the English were staging another form of a British Boxing invasion. This time, its king Anthony Joshua was charging into battle against the colonists, being led on this particular Saturday by a relatively unknown Andy Ruiz.

If the British thought they could have easily outgunned the Americans in 1775 to defeat; with Joshua as the helm, the thousands of  his countryman who trekked in from the United Kingdom, now ashore in New York City,  thought that their man’s win was a foregone conclusion and his success as secured as a Royal seal.

Well, the night’s fight did actually come to resemble a royal event. In fact,  it turned out to be a coronation of a new King when Andy Ruiz shockingly knocked out Joshua in seven rounds to capture three of the top four heavyweight championship belts and with it the specter as the King of the Heavyweights.

More interestingly, for the first time in years all heavyweight title belts now rest around the waists of two Americans.

Before a sellout crowd of 20,201, Anthony Joshua (22-1, 22 KO’s) and Andy Ruiz (22-0, 21 KOs) stunned the crowd and certainly gave them their money’s worth for the course of seven near electrifying rounds.

Announcer Michael Buffer who, in his trademark bellow declaration, always beckons the audience and the fighters to “Let’s get ready to rumble,” could not have been any closer to the truth, as he came off like a gypsy oracle when his hope for a big, mean, street fight came off as a reality.

Unfortunately for the three belt unified heavyweight champ Anthony Joshua, Buffer’s comments may have affected him more like a gypsy curse, for he ended up touching the canvas more times than Michelangelo, the last one, actually the fourth one, eventually prompting  the referee to stop the fight and end the reign of the British heavyweight sensation.

Though Andy Ruiz, with his underdog win, has become the 21^st century’s version of Rocky Balboa, albeit a Mexican one, he is far from a fluke fighter. While he may be built like someone who just rolled out from under a food truck, he has had over 100 amateur wins and his only professional loss was to the eventual WBO heavyweight title holder Joseph Parker on December 10, 2016, in the Parker’s home country of New Zealand. That fight came about by Ruiz being one of the two top ranked contenders willing to fight for the vacant WBO title. After twelve close rounds, Ruiz lost on a majority decision by scores of 114-114 and 115-113 (twice). Many thought that Ruiz won the fight or at least should have been awarded a draw.  “I think I got the win or at least a draw,” said Ruiz. “I think I set the pace with my jab.” Ruiz also stated he wanted to have a rematch with Parker in the future.

Two and half years later, Joshua was standing across the ring from him, holding what was once Parker’s belt, and Ruiz was there again hoping to capture a world heavyweight title. This time the venue was not in some god forsaken part of New Zealand. This time the fight was taking place in the most famous boxing arena of them all – New York’s Madison Square Garden – the Pinnacle Palace of boxing.

Going into the bout, Sportsbooks listed Joshua as a -2500 favorite (risk $2,500 to win $100), with Ruiz getting +1100 (risk $100 to win $1100) as the underdog.

Regardless of the odds, Ruiz undeniably battered and beat Joshua and deserved the biggest win of his career along with a solid place on the Mount Rushmore of underdogs. By shockingly defeating British boxing sensation Anthony Joshua via a seventh-round TKO to become the IBF, WBA, and WBO heavyweight champion of the world, his countenance should now stand right alongside the likes of Buster Douglas, Hasim Rahman, and James J. Braddock.

After two slow opening rounds that saw Joshua smartly jab his way around the ring moving to his left, while Ruiz countered with right-left combinations, few, if any would have contemplated that in the very next round – round three – all hell would break loose and the dominance of the heavyweight division would dangle on the balance.

Early in the third round, Joshua landed a hard right to Ruiz’s jaw that jarred him for a moment. Still confident, the challenger tried to mix things up with a couple of quick flurries. Then, with only 40 seconds ticked off in the round, Joshua exploded with a right cross followed by a left hook to the jaw that dropped Ruiz swiftly to the canvas. Up at “five” with the New York crowd on their feet, Ruiz absorbed a few more thudding shots from the champion. Those who came to see Joshua, which was about 20,000 out of the 20,201 in attendance, were already moving ahead to Joshua’s next bout for the undisputed heavyweight championship against Deontay Wilder.

Unfortunately, by looking ahead they forgot to look to what was left in the round, which was over two minutes. As Joshua appeared to be going in for the kill with harsh combinations, Ruiz bravely fought back. First it appeared to be strictly to defend himself, and then it switched to him getting on the offensive. Within seconds, swinging madly, but quickly with punches, Ruiz caught Joshua with a short left hook to the chin and a right hand chop to the top of the champion’s head that dropped the Brit like a bale of English tea.

The crowd was mortified and hoped it was nothing more than a flash knockdown. When Joshua rose at “seven” on unsteady legs, their cheers turned to fear and they hoped that the seconds would sprint through the time dial like a tornado through the heartland. To his credit, Joshua tried valiantly to hang in there and it almost worked until a few seconds left in the round, when Ruiz cornered the champ against the ropes and hammered away at him with a barrel full of leather that dropped Joshua again for the second time in the round. Luckily for him he rose at the count of  “seven” and the round mercifully ended.

The fight now took on the bright light of excitement, though the Joshua contingency prayed that their man would come back as he did against Wladimir Klitschko, and score another big knockout after reaching the lower depths of adversity.

It looked to be that way at first as Joshua fought back in rounds four, five, and six, to almost change the momentum of the fight in his favor.

Then came round seven.

The round started off well for Joshua, whose jab became more spear-like and his head seemed as clear as a crystal decanter. Within seconds into the round Joshua stunned Ruiz with a powerful right to the head that stunned him and stopped him in his tracks. Somehow, instead of covering up or retreating to safety, Ruiz stormed into Joshua like a madman intent on destruction. Throwing punches in bunches, Ruiz, in apparent desperation, and with the intent of a human buzz saw, threw all he had at Joshua who was not expecting this type of aggression. Eleven unanswered punches later,  that culminated with another clubbing right to the top of the head, Joshua landed on the canvas for the third time in the bout. Up at “four” and bleeding from the nose, Joshua tried valiantly to defend himself and save his laurels. Seeing blood, actually real blood, Ruiz, like a man on a mission, was not about to let Joshua off the hook and slammed him with a short left hook to the jaw that dropped the champion down for the second time in the round. Once again Joshua rose, but this time he appeared dazed and confused prompting the referee to call a halt to the fight.

The crowd murmured in shock as if they witnessed the death of a loved one.

The loss damaged the immediate future of the heavyweight division, which expected the popular Joshua to leap his way to a big money match with either Tyson Fury or Deontay Wilder.

Because of this upset, boxing fans will now have to wait before seeing the long-awaited heavyweight bouts with Joshua against Wilder or Fury because of a rematch clause which will usher in a Joshua-Ruiz II bout in the fall in England.

For now all the praise goes to Ruiz. Unlike so many men who fought for the heavyweight tile and never make a challenge of it, Ruiz went for the gold ring and let it all hang out. He cared little for his safety and showed virtually no fear at all for Joshua. Instead, he came forward like a fearless warrior and deservedly scored the biggest knockout win of his life. A life that would never be the same again.

If Joshua made $25 million of this bout, Ruiz is sure to make eight figures for himself in the rematch.

“Mom, I love you,” the new champ Ruiz said at his news conference. “Our lives are going to change; we don’t have to struggle no more.”

On the win, Ruiz remarked, “We’ve been working really hard, man, really hard. I wanted to prove everybody wrong, all the doubters thinking I was going to lose in the third round, first round. I was looking at comments, as well. But what do you know, man? I’m the first Mexican heavyweight champion of the world. It’s a blessing. … I’m still pinching myself to see if this is real, man! Wow. It’s amazing.”

On being knocked down in the third round, the new champ admitted, “That was crazy that that happened, right? That was my first time on the canvas. When I was on the canvas I was, like, ‘Whoa, what the hell just happened?’ But I had to get him back. I had to get him back. I think that’s when the Mexican blood in me, the Mexican warrior that I have, I had to return the favor…When I was on the canvas I was, like, ‘Whoa, what the hell just happened?’ But I had to get him back. I think that’s the Mexican blood in me, the Mexican warrior that I have, I had to return the favor.”

Ruiz also agreed with the stoppage, “That’s the referee’s job. The referee knows what he’s doing. If he would’ve just let it go, I think I would’ve stopped the fight in more dramatic fashion, but he did what he had to do. The job was for him…I was waiting for him [Joshua] to open up. I wanted to break him down a little bit more, work the body. He hits really hard, man. He hits pretty hard. I just needed to be smart in there. I thought he opened up too much to where I could counter him. The speed, I think, got to him, and we got this victory.”

As for Joshua, he said truthfully, “I took my first (professional) loss. How to explain that feeling? It has happened to me before but I feel like those times I lost years back have made me a stronger person, It hasn’t really changed me, my work ethic, my mindset, what I stand for, the people I’m still loyal to – my trainer Rob McCracken, my amateur coach at Finchley ABC. I’m still going to work with these guys; they’ll teach me everything I need to know. They’ve done a great job for me not only inside the boxing ring but mainly as a human. They’ve really developed me as a person which is really important. These guys have been with me for years.”

Joshua also refused to make any excuses for his defeat and has vowed to win back the IBO, IBF, WBO and WBA (super) heavyweight titles he lost to the American in New York. “There was no contaminated food. I know there are a lot of accusations or worries about what was wrong with me,” Joshua added. “But I want to tell you this – I’m a soldier and I have to take my ups and my downs. And on Saturday I took a loss and I have to take it like a man. I have to take my loss like a man, no blaming anyone or anything.  I’m the one who went in there to perform and my performance didn’t go to plan. I’m the one who has to adjust, analyze and do my best to correct it and get the job done in the rematch.”

As for his future, Joshua advised, “Boxing is a part of my life and I’m a champion at heart. Congratulations to Andy Ruiz, he has six months or so to be champion because the belts go in the air and he has to defend them against myself.”

In its opening line for the potential rematch, BetOnline made Joshua a -350 favorite, meaning you’d have to bet $350 to win $100. Ruiz, meanwhile, is a +275 underdog. That means you’d win $275 for a $100 wager. It’s not nearly as wide as Ruiz being a +1400 underdog, but it’s an interesting look at how the sports book thinks the public will bet on the rematch.

“Considering Ruiz was a 14/1 underdog this past weekend, it would be hard to justify him being another huge underdog,” Dave Mason, the sports book brand manager for BetOnline, told Forbes. “However, we expect the smart money to come in on Joshua closer to the fight while the public will probably back Ruiz again.”

As for the British, they have always showed guts and tenacity, Dunkirk and the famous brave air fight in the Battle of Britain, proved that; and it cemented their do or die attitude.  Joshua can certainly come back. He has showed that type of mettle. The only thing left is whether he has that true grit to make the comeback and restore his place on the cliff of the heavyweight hierarchy.

As for Ruiz, he has the skills to remain the champion. Still whatever lies in his future, for one monumental, historic evening in the ring of rings in Madison Square Garden, Ruiz fought like a warrior and emerged the victor in one of boxing’s greatest ring battles. He came, he fought hard, and he conquered. It is the story line of myths and one of the backdrops of glory. Ruiz succeeded in both. For now there is a new King, for whatever will be his reign, he has achieved immortality and riches well beyond his wildest dreams. Cheers go out to him.

Heavyweight boxing is back big. Long live the heavyweight division.

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