Boxing in New England and other places By Kirk Lang

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.” 

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“Winter Brawl 2024” Hits Mohegan Sun

.Chordale Booker after defeating Greg Vendetti. (Photo by CES).

Story by Kirk Lang

February  – Uncasville, CT. – Junior middleweight contender Chordale “The Gift” Booker was offended that Greg “The Villain” Vendetti had questioned if he had the toughness and the stamina to handle a long, drawn-out tough fight. It provided extra motivation for him in training.

Vendetti, 154, of Wakefield, MA,  should have stayed quiet and not talked trash, because Booker, 155, of Stamford, CT, won a unanimous 10-round decision in the main event of CES Boxing’s “Winter Brawl 2024” at Mohegan Sun Arena. The judges saw it for Booker by scores of 99-91 (twice) and 98-92.

It turned out to be a more entertaining tussle than the numbers would lead one to believe, at least early on. Vendetti, as is his style, was the aggressor at the opening bell but Booker jabbed and moved and did not make things easy for his opponent. It was not until there was half a minute left in the round that Vendetti was able to catch Booker along the ropes with an assortment of power shots.

Chordale Booker (R) fires a right fist at Greg Vendetti (L). (Photo by Kirk Lang)

Booker boxed very effectively in the second frame, using his height and reach to his advantage. Vendetti’s supporters chanted his name at the start of the third round. Though Booker has the style and the skills more suited for sticking and moving, he decided to take a page from Vendetti’s playbook and stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Vendetti, trading punches in close. During one exchange, he opened a cut over Vendetti’s right eye and near the end of the frame, he landed a beautiful straight left to the body followed by a right hook downstairs.

No one really dominated the slower fourth round but round five, like round three, featured some great close quarters action that was tit for tat.

Booker elected to create some distance again in the sixth and thus, seemed to frustrate Vendetti. However, Vendetti got back into pressure fighter mode in the seventh frame, moving forward in a crouch trying to land bombs. It looked like Vendetti has studied a lot of the legendary former heavyweight champion Rocky Marciano’s style. The only thing is, if you’re going to copy Marciano’s style, one must also throw as many punches as he did, with serious intentions. Oftentimes, Vendetti was doing his Marciano impression but not letting his hands go as much as he should have when he did get within Booker’s jabbing range.

Geg Vendetti punishes Chordale Booker (R) along the ropes. (Photo by Kirk Lang)

From the eighth round on, Booker pretty much controlled the action, employing his quick jab more so than in prior rounds. Early in the 9^th frame, Booker caught Vendetti with three or four shots to the body that seemed to hurt him. Vendetti would try his smothering ways once again, but Booker got the better of their exchanges, especially with his newfound focus on the body. When Booker managed to create some pace between them, near the end of the stanza, he connected with two impressive left uppercuts.

Booker did not let up in the 10^th, as he blasted Vendetti with an array of shots along the ropes. Vendetti would lean over low, utilizing what he thought was an interesting defensive strategy, but as he leaned, Booker punched and kept piling up points.

If Vendetti, 154, had emerged victorious, he would have won Booker’s WBC U.S. Super Welterweight Championship. The title was vacated one day prior when Booker, 155, weighed in one pound over the weight limit.

Chordale Booker (R) opens up with both fists on Greg Vendetti (L). (Photo by Kirk Lang)

Booker, who was rated #14 by the WBO and #33 by the WBC going into the Vendetti bout, raised his record to 22-1 (10 KO’s). Vendetti fell to 23-6-1 (12 KO’s), losing for the second straight time (his previous fight was back in October 2022). Booker has now won five straight fights since his only career defeat, a stoppage loss to unbeaten Austin Williams in April 2022 at Madison Square Garden.

Boxing promoter Jimmy Burchfield was impressed with Booker’s performance.

 “I thought it was a great main event,” Burchfield said. “I think Vendetti was inactive for too long, and it showed.”

In the eight-round featherweight co-feature, Ricky Delossantos, 125 ½, of Providence, RI, turned back the challenge of Nathan Martinez, 125 ½, of New Britain, CT, to win the vacant WBC US Silver Super Featherweight Championship. After two rounds of back-and-forth action, Delossantos stepped up his punch rate and it made a difference. His consistent jab did a better job at keeping Martinez at bay, and his sharp left hooks made Martinez think twice about walking in on him. Delossantos also displayed greater head movement than the first two rounds.

Ricky Delossantos (L) faces a crouching Nathan Martinez (R). (Photo by Kirk Lang)

The fourth frame saw Delossantos and Martinez each have their moments, but Delossantos began to take over the fight in the fifth frame. He started with some great bodywork and later teed off on Martinez in a neutral corner. In the sixth, Nathan turned his back while under fire from Delossantos, but claimed he was the victim of a headbutt. To us at ringside, it looked more like right to the head. As the round wound down, referee Arthur Mercante Jr. was watching Martinez with a keen eye, and it looked for a moment like he might stop the fight, but he elected not to. Delossantos would dominate rounds 7 and 8 to earn a unanimous decision by scores of 79-73 and 78-74 (twice).

Ricky Delossantos, in red trunks, battling Nathan Martinez, in white trunks. (Photo by Kirk Lang)

Delossantos raised his record to 12-1 (3 KO’s), while Martinez fell to 8-3 (2 KO’s).

Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan, 160, of Weymouth, MA, earned the WBC US Silver Middleweight Championship with a unanimous eight-round decision over Dormedes Potes, 160, of Barranquila, Colombia. Extending his undefeated record to 16-0 (14 KO’s), Hogan, a southpaw, dropped Potes in the third frame with a straight left to the head.  He continued to dominate the contest in rounds four through six.

In round seven, Hogan seemed to hurt Potes with a straight left downstairs. A couple of seconds later, a drilling left to the body forced a retreating Potes to take a knee. Hogan did not let up in the eighth and final round, but Potes managed to stick around to hear the final bell.

Francis Hogan (L) squared off against Dormedes Potes (R). (Photo by Kirk Lang)

All three judges scored it for Hogan 80-70. Potes, who has now lost two straight bouts, saw his record drop to 14-6-1 (10 KO’s).

Rising star Alejandro Paulino, who was voted 2023’s Pro Boxer of the Year by the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame, cruised to a unanimous decision over D’Angelo Keyes, 129, of Houston, TX. All three judges scored the eight-round contest 79-71.

As early as the opening round, Keyes grabbed and held while taking leather from Connecticut boxer. Paulino, 129 ¼, of New London, CT, seemed frustrated as he tried to get Keyes off him.

In the second round, Keyes seemed to focus more on punching rather than grabbing. Paulino, though, was able to see his foe’s wide looping power shots from a mile away. Paulino dropped Keyes twice in the third frame, the first via a right hand to the head in a neutral corner, and the second knockdown was the result of a flurry of shots to the head and body. The ringside doctor examined Keyes between rounds but decided to let him fight on.

Keyes rallied back from the knockdowns to give a solid effort in the fourth round. Just when D’Angelo was having his highlight moment, he got cracked with a beautiful left hook. Paulino then stepped up his attack and teed off on his adversary with rights and lefts to the head, throwing shots with more bad intentions than any point prior. Paulino would dominate round five but Keyes, it could be said, took round six with his best effort of the night.

James Maner being interviewing after his win. (Photo by Kirk Lang)

Paulino got busier and more aggressive in the seventh round and by the end of the frame was focusing more on attacking the body. The eighth and final round was not the most exciting, but it was clear, Paulino had done more than enough to get the nod.

Angel “Set It Off” Gonzalez, 111, of Hartford, CT, remained unbeaten with a hard-earned eight-round decision victory over Christian Robles, 111 ½, of Lakewood, CA. The scores were 80-72, 79-73 and 78-74 for Gonzalez, who extended his record to 13-0 (7 KO’s). Robles, who usually favored a body attack while Gonzalez focused his shots upstairs, fell to 8-2 (3 KO’s).

Round after round resulted in competitive back-and-forth action. While Gonzalez had the better overall skills, Robles was terribly tenacious. Gonzalez landed a big right hand in the sixth round that sent Christian to the canvas. In the seventh, Gonzalez teed off on Robles in a neutral corner. He was landing so many hard shots, it looked like he might get the stoppage. Robles bravely never folded under the pressure. He made it to the eighth round and both guys gave a great account of themselves, especially in the final minute, swapping leather as if getting paid by the number of punches thrown.

In lightweight action, “King” Kevin Walsh, 134 ¾, of Brockton, MA, improved to 11-0 (5 KO’s) after a straight right hand dropped Darrell Rivera, 135 ½, of San Juan, Puerto Rico early in the opening frame. Referee Ricky Gonzalez, seeing Rivera fall flat on his back, waved the fight off without bothering to give a count. Walsh was patient, carefully watching what was coming his way, when he countered with the right.

With the loss, Rivera fell to 10-3-1 (8 KO’s).

Carlos “All In” Vanegas Nunez, 125 ¼, of Port Chester, NY, scored two knockdowns in the opening round against Jaden Webb, 125 ¼, of Beebe, AR, before the bout was called off at the 2:00 mark. Vanegas Nunez first dropped Webb with a straight right. He followed up with a string of power shots that forced referee Arthur Mercante Jr. to call the slaughter off. Vanegas Nunez is now 7-1 (5 KO’s) while Webb sinks to 2-2 (2 KO’s)

In other action, Slawomir Bohdziewicz, 197, of Walbryzch, Poland, improved to 3-0 (3 KO’s) with a second-round stoppage of Bruno Saraiva, 188 ¼, of Boston, MA. Bohdziewicz came out at the opening bell throwing some serious left hooks, which forced Saraiva (0-2) to grab and hold early on. Not long after, Bohdziewicz connected with a thudding right hand to the head as he moved in to close the distance. It was not long before Bohdziewicz landed a left to the body that caused Saraiva to drop to his knees. Referee Dave Fields administered a count, but Saraiva was unable to make it to his feet in time.

  Providence, Rhode Island-based James Maner, a tall and lanky southpaw, used his speed, as well as his height and reach advantage to outhustle Miguel Torres, 164, of Dorchester, MA, over four rounds in the opening bout of the pro portion of promoter Jimmy Burchfield’s Pro-Am show. All three judges saw it 39-36 for Maner. Maner, 164, of Providence, RI, had lost a point in the second frame when he hit Torres after referee Arthur Mercante Jr. had ordered the fighters to break. Maner improved to 5-0 (2) while Torres dropped to 2-1 (2 KO’s).

The first half of the mega fight card featured 10 amateur bouts that was separately titled “Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Invitational.” All the fighters were awarded WBC medals from WBC representative Michael George. Boxing fans got their money’s worth on this night, as they were entertained by 19 fights over the course of seven hours.

 “It was an unbelievable night of fighting,” said Burchfield. “It was a great night of boxing.”

__________

Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame Inducts 17^th Class; Makes History with First Female Boxer Induction

Story by Kirk Lang

Photos by Alyssa Lang

Uncasville, CT. The Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame, as always – with an assist from Mohegan Sun – put on another fine event in celebrating a new class of inductees.

Writer Sherman Cain accepting plaque for inductee Matt Remillard.

However, this 17^th annual induction ceremony, held on November 18, saw a couple of “firsts” take place.  Shelly Vincent became the first ever female boxer inductee and former middleweight contender Tarvis Simms joined his brother in the state hall, making them the only sibling fighters to have accomplished such a feat. Former WBA junior middleweight champion Travis Simms was inducted back in 2012.

Willie Pep Courage Award Winner – Christy Martin.

For Vincent, whose mother died of cancer when she was a teenager, which left her homeless for a time, and who also suffered physical and sexual abuse growing up, boxing gave her a focus when she was still dealing with a myriad of trauma.

Two fistic greats Iran Barkley and Marlon Starling pose with fans.

 “Boxing saved my life,” she said. “Boxing gave me a family at a time when I needed it most. I was lost. Suicidal. My mother was only 36 when she passed. And a few months later, my great grandmother, who was like a second mother to me, passed away also.”

Silent Auction at Ceremony.

It seems hurt can’t escape Vincent. On a day that was supposed to be a joyous one, she admitted during her induction speech that her grandmother died earlier in the day.

Master of Ceremonies Randy Gordon, 2023 Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame inductee Arthur Pelullo, boxing judge Glenn Feldman and Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame President John Laudati.

 “I never had goals of winning belts or getting awards. I was dealing with depression and thoughts of suicide,” said Vincent. “So boxing, on fight nights, for me, set me free. I finally felt like I was free…Boxing became my therapy.”

Vincent, a native of New London, would relocate to Providence, RI for her boxing career. Turning pro in 2011, she captured the UBF super bantamweight championship with a majority decision over Jackie Trivilino. She would subsequently win the IBA super bantamweight title. Vincent’s only losses were to the New York City-based Heather Hardy. She got to fight at Madison Square Garden in her second bout against Hardy. Vincent retired with a 27-2 record.

Former legendary heavyweight contender Gerry Cooney (R) with a father and daughter at the Induction Banquet and Ceremony.

 “I want to be remembered for speaking out and having a voice for all those that didn’t and fighting for what’s right and standing by it no matter what the consequences are,” said Vincent.

Dessert at the Induction Ceremony.

She added a past opponent, who seemed to live by the slogan “sex sells,” told her she wouldn’t ever make it big because she “was a fat little boy that wouldn’t be on TV because no one would want to see me.”

Conn. Boxing Hall of Fame Museum with 2023 Inductee Mark Allen Baker’s books on display.

However, she would appear on various networks, because of her personality and her skill, without having to resort to trying to sell sexy, Vincent noted.

Author Mark Allen Baker posing with his 2023 CTBHOF plaque.

 “My goal is to prove to all those gay kids that you can do it being yourself,” she said, “And to those young ladies, that you can do it completely covered.”

Vicent added that the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame induction was “beyond anything I ever hoped for.”

2023 Professional Boxer of the Year – Alejandro Paulino.

Inducted along with Vincent and Simms were former NABF heavyweight champion Tony Grano, esteemed author Mark Allen Baker, former NABF and NABO featherweight champion Matt Remillard and promoter Arthur Pelullo.

Whereas Vincent touched on abuse – physical and sexual – and how boxing helped her get through it, Grano touched on bullying and how boxing can help combat it while also boosting one’s self-confidence.

 “I was bullied. I was picked on,” said Grano, who went on to say that the “bullying epidemic is the second leading cause of deaths in our youth and young adults ages 10 to 24.”

2023 Inductee Shelly Vincent – the first female boxer inducted into the Conn. Boxing Hall of Fame.

He added, “Let me tell you right now. The only way to stop the bullying is to give these kids the confidence to stick up for themselves. Bullying doesn’t come from a place of confidence. And when someone sticks up for themselves with confidence the bullying stops. I know firsthand.”

2023 Inductee Arthur Pelullo.

Tony added, “I would much rather my kid or any kid get in a fist fight and stick up for themselves than go home and [commit suicide].”

2023 Inductee and boxing author Mark Allen Baker at podium.

Grano was a heavyweight on the rise after winning the NABF title and signing with promoter Don King. However, after suffering a herniated disk in his neck during a training camp, he needed spinal infusion surgery and that stalled his career. He subsequently retired with a 20-3-1 record. While everything didn’t go as planned, there was a lot of pride in his voice when he said he went from having dyslexia as a kid to “becoming the fifth ranked heavyweight in the world by the World Boxing Council, the most prestigious sanctioning body there is.”

Grano noted he was voted Amateur Boxer of the Year at the Hall’s first ever event in 2005, so to be inducted now, 17 years later, “I’m just so honored and blessed.”

2023 CTBHOF Program on table.

He congratulated all the inductees of past years, many of whom were seated at tables throughout the Uncas Ballroom.

 “They dared to be great in something they were passionate about, in something that they loved, and went out there to chase a dream…Like them, I tried to be great in the sport.”

For Tarvis Simms, being inducted into the same hall as his brother was very emotional. Though he came with a prepared speech, there were times he struggled to read the words, as he seemed to be fighting back tears. He began by mentioning his deceased father, Travis Simms Sr., Larry D. Paulk, an older brother he lost too early, and his late Norwalk-based childhood trainer John Harris.

Not long after, he thanked his twin brother Travis.

 “I can’t think of a better person to share this experience with,” he said.

A former National Golden Gloves champion who registered nearly 200 victories as an amateur, Simms turned pro and won the WBF All-American middleweight championship with a unanimous decision victory over Delray Raines in Bridgeport, CT in 2008. Simms’ only loss came at the hands of Allan Green in 2009 in a bid for the vacant NABO super middleweight championship. He fought twice more, winning each time, and retired with a stellar record of 27-1-1, with 11 knockouts.

New Board Member Steve Ike, Randy Gordon, Tony Grano and CTBHOF President John Laudati.

 “This prestigious recognition,” said Simms, “Is not solely a reflection of my individual achievements but a testament to my unwavering support and dedication of my trainers, family and friends, who have been by my side throughout this remarkable journey.”

As he continued his speech, Travis made his way on stage and stood at least eight feet back from his brother.  In addition, Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame President John Laudati handed off Tarvis’ induction plaque to Travis so he could personally give it to his brother.

2023 Inductee Tony Grano at podium.

When Tarvis looked to his left as his brother stepped forward to greet him with his Hall of Fame plaque, he was pleasantly surprised.

 “I had no idea he was there. It totally caught me off guard,” Tarvis told The USA Boxing News.

He added, “I really needed that. He must have known that I was up there struggling, and he came up there at the right time.”

Peter Hary, Vice President of the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame, was on stage and witnessed it all, as he had provided introductory remarks about Tarvis.

 “It was a very emotional moment that showed a tremendous display of humanity,” he said. “It was a moment that transcended the sport.”

The only 2023 boxer inductee not in the building was former NABF featherweight champion Matt Remillard. Longtime Journal Inquirer writer Sherman Cain, who also serves on the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame’s Board of Directors, accepted on behalf of Remillard. The Manchester-based pugilist would fight not only in the ring but outside the ring, according to Cain, which led to a period of incarceration.

2023 Inductee Shelly Vincent.

 “He had four fights [after that] but he really just didn’t have a feel for the game anymore,” said Cain. “And Matt decided that boxing had both helped and hurt him and that he needed to take a break.”

Cain added, “He needed to try to be a better friend, a better husband and a better man.” Taking a sabbatical from boxing, Remillard even skipped his induction, “but he is very glad and honored to be an inductee into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame,” said Cain. Remillard retired with a 27-1 record with 15 knockouts, His only defeat was to future world champion Mikey Garcia in 2011 in a bout televised on HBO.

Philadelphia-based promoter Arthur Pelullo gave the second shortest induction speech, behind only Mark Allen Baker’s. The President and CEO of Banner Promotions, Pelullo brought many great fights to Connecticut’s casinos, including bouts with Acelino Freitas, Diego Corrales and Larry Holmes. 

After expressing his love for Connecticut and acknowledging that boxing is the “greatest sport in the world,” Pelullo said he admires every fighter that makes that climb to the ring “whether they win a world title or not.”

“The tenacity, the guts to get in the ring and do what they do, nobody does that,” he said, adding, “Fight night allows these guys to challenge their own fears and I’ve had the pleasure and the honor of promoting some of these men.”

Mark Allen Baker, who referee Johnny Callas introduced, hyped up Baker because he said Baker is too soft-spoken and humble to say much about himself. He noted his past career as a rock promoter and even a stint as a host of a VH1 show related to rock and roll memorabilia. A prolific writer, Baker has penned more than 30 books in 20 years, with at least a dozen focusing on the sport of boxing. Baker is among the best writers of the sport of prizefighting. His works have been favorably reviewed in The USA Boxing News.

“Everyone’s aware of the literary talents of the 20^th century when it comes to boxing,” said Callas. “The great writers like Joyce Carol Oates, Hemingway and Norman Mailer.

He added, “I’m here to make the case and it’s not going to be hard, that our next inductee should be mentioned alongside those names. I’ll even go so far as to say he is more prolific of a boxing writer than each and every one of them.”

Callas described Baker, whose two most recent boxing books have profiled Willie Pep and Tony Canzoneri, as “Connecticut’s best kept secret.”

Callas also thinks Baker bears a resemblance to Led Zeppelin guitar legend Jimmy Page, so when Baker was called up for his induction, his entrance music was “Whole Lotta Love.”

 “I knew he was going to do that,” said Baker upon reaching the podium. “I told my wife, I said, just be ready for some Led Zeppelin.”

Baker thanked the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame, his friends and family, including his wife Alison, his publishers, “many of them, but especially McFarland.”

“Most of all I’d like to thank my readers,” said Baker. He added, “I’d also like to thank all of you. It has been an honor and privilege to write about so many of you in this room, and this wonderful sport. I’m very humbled by this award and incredibly grateful.”

Baker had donated some books to the Hall’s silent auction. Other auction items included a Muhammad Ali-themed Monopoly board game, a framed photo signed by former heavyweight champion Max Schmeling, fight posters, a Rocky Marciano decanter, gloves signed by Riddick Bowe and Sugar Ray Leonard, and photos signed by former heavyweight champion Floyd Patterson and former heavyweight contender George Chuvalo. In addition, the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame raised a nice chunk of change with its traditional 50/50 raffle.

In addition to honoring the greats, Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame President John Laudati said the hall supports amateur boxing tournaments in the state as well as retired boxers in need, which could mean help with medical bills or help with the rent. The hall also has a scholarship fund for young adults looking to further their schooling.

Gathering of past inductees with former triple champion Iran Barkley at the right. 

Early in the evening, prior to the inductions, numerous individuals were honored with awards. Paul Ianuzzi (of Brooklyn, CT) was given a special award for oldest professional debut (52); Ahmed Sheikh of Team Combat League was given a special award for the innovation and advancement of the sport of boxing.

Seven others were honored with six traditional awards the hall bestows. New Haven-based Brian Clark, inducted a few years back for his work as a trainer, was chosen as the Amateur Official of the Year; referee Johnny Callas, who also runs a gym in Hartford, was honored as The William Hutt (Pro) Official of the Year. Heading into the induction dinner, Callas refereed 171 bouts in 2023, some of which were for Team Combat League’s one-round contests.

Ali Feliz, a super heavyweight out of Danbury, was recognized as The Roland Roy Amateur Boxer of the Year. This past December, in just his 12^th bout, Feliz captured the USA National Championship in Lubbock, TX. New London lightweight Alejandro Paulino, who went 4-0 in 2023, and won all four by knockout. Those victories have raised his record to 15-0 (12). Diana Guerrera and Emily Harney were the co-honorees of The George Smith Contribution to Boxing Award; Harney for her photography work and Guerrera for her volunteer work at amateur boxing events. Last but not least, Christy Martin made a visit to Connecticut to accept the Willie Pep Courage Award. Martin’s honor follows the publication of a book detailing the abuse she suffered at the hands of her controlling ex-husband Jim Martin. Fighting for Survival: My Journey Through Boxing Fame, Abuse, Murder and Resurrection was co-written with famed journalist Ron Borges.  Christy was shot and stabbed by Jim, who was found guilty of attempted second-degree murder. He is presently serving a 25-year sentence for his actions.

Tarvis Simms inducted as he follows his brother in the CTBHOF.

 “When I first got the call from Coach Johnny that we’re giving you the Willie Pep Courage Award, just Willie Pep, I was like, over the top. Excited. Amazed,’ said Martin. “But my fighting style and Willie Pep’s fighting style would never be confused, the slick, smart, great awesome boxer that he was. Me, I bled a lot, so I got hit a lot. So, I can’t see myself in the same sentence as Willie Pep.”

She added, “But to get the courage award, I started to think more about Willie Pep’s life and after being in a plane crash [in which some people died], after breaking a couple of vertebrae in his back, he came back and won 27 fights consecutive before losing again, so then I went, OK, I do fit in with Willie Pep, I do have that kind of courage.

 “I got off the floor after being shot and stabbed and left for dead. And I fought six months later. I did lose, but I wanted to show Jim Martin that I could win without him. I got my 50^th win when I got myself up off that floor after he shot and stabbed me and left me for dead. I’m so proud to get this Willie Pep Courage Award.”

Former amateur boxer Samy Vega, currently the Chief Operating Officer at Hartford-based Dressler Law, regularly attends the annual induction event.

 “It’s always a fantastic experience to see the boxing community come together to celebrate and honor the inductees,” he said. “Each inductee had a special and inspiring story that truly captured the essence of boxing.”

Jennifer Zhang, of Boston, MA, asked to name a highlight moment of the evening, responded, “The most memorable part of the night was to watch my coach Shelly Vincent, become the first woman to be inducted into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.”

She added, “I think she’s a trailblazer in women’s boxing and I’m so lucky to be able to learn from her.”

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John Gotti III brutally stops Alex Citrowske in the opening frame in the exciting Winter Brawl at the Mohegan Sun Casino Arena

John Gotti III -R- fires combination against Alex Citrowske -L-. PHOTO BY KIRK LANG.

Story by Kirk Lang

Photos by Bill Peterson, CES Boxing and Kirk Lang

January 21 – Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Arena. Connecticut’s first boxing card of 2023 – titled Winter Brawl – turned into the John Gotti III show, what with the planned 10-round main event between Juiseppe “The Sicilian Nightmare” Cusumano and Istvan “The Hungarian Hammer” Bernath falling through the day before, when it was announced Cusumano would be unable to fight due to illness.

Gotti, the son of John A. Gotti and grandson of the legendary “Teflon Don” John Gotti, ex-head of the Gambino crime family, was not officially the new main event, but considering the arena practically emptied out after his fight, the 10-round featherweight clash between local favorite Irvin Gonzalez Jr and Dannis Aguero Arias – which was expanded from 8 rounds to 10 when the heavyweight fight fell through – turned into the de-facto walk-out bout.

John Gotti III sends Alex Citrowske to the canvas in the opening frame. PHOTO BY CES BOXING.

Gotti, a former mixed martial arts competitor, was looking to notch his second pro victory, but considering the fan support he had, with many of his most ardent fans wearing “Gotti” baseball-style caps, you would have thought he was a champion, or at least a top-20 ranked contender already. He had six MMA fights under promoter Jimmy Burchfield, whose home base is in nearby Rhode Island, and Burchfield so far promotes his boxing matches, though he has not officially signed Gotti, of Oyster Bay, NY, to an exclusive contract.

Alex Citrowske, 174, of Saint Cloud, MN, may not have been the stiffest test for Gotti, but the undefeated 30-year-old did what he had to do, and looked good doing so, before registering a first-round stoppage in the scheduled 4-rounder. Gotti, 175 ½, dropped Citrowske three times before referee John Callas was forced to wave off the one-sided beating at the 2:59 mark.

 A good-looking man with a well-tailored beard, and muscles that make him look like he can be the next action movie hero, Gotti wasted no time at the outset of the opening round pounding away at Citrowske with repeated left hooks and straight rights meant to do harm. Citrowske tried to get on his bicycle and avoid the storm, but that was not to be as a left hook-straight right combo sent him to the canvas. To his credit, Alex got to his feet rather quickly, as he would each time he was dropped, but he was in over his head against Gotti.

After being given a standing 8-count, Gotti resumed his attack, first trying to bomb away with consecutive right hands. A hard left hook created the second knockdown. When the action resumed, Gotti made a point of trying to land something meaningful with three different straight right-left hook combinations. After the last combination missed its mark entirely, Gotti tried something new. He held his left hand out like a measuring stick for a second, and then delivered one of his patented straight right-left hook combinations. It worked perfectly as Citrowske hit the canvas hard, and though he showed no quit in him, getting up rather fast, Callas had seen enough and waved his arms to call a halt to the slaughter.

Gotti, who turned pro in October, improved to 2-0 while Citrowske saw his ledger fall to 1-2-1 (1).

As for Worcester, Massachusetts’ Irvin Gonzalez Jr., things did not go exactly as planned for him. Not only was his main event fought in front of a near empty house, Gonzalez suffered a stoppage loss in front of hundreds of fans who made the trek from his home state to Mohegan Sun to see him. The 31-year-old Dannis Aguero Arias, who replaced original opponent Headley Scott, of Jonesboro, GA, was no second-rate substitute. He came into the fight with an impressive 19-2 record with 16 knockouts and was riding a streak of eight consecutive stoppage victories. His 4^th round TKO of Gonzalez made it nine straight. Gonzalez, 125 ½, started off the fight strong. In the opening stanza, he used his height to his advantage and was the busier fighter.

Dannis Aguero Arias -L- attacks Irvin Gonzalez Jr. -R-. PHOTO BY BILL PETERSON

Gonzalez also seemed in control for the majority of the second round before Arias, 123 ¾, stepped it up in the final minute of the frame, as he unleashed a barrage of leather in Gonzalez’ direction in a neutral corner. He made even more use of his fists in the third frame and one assault forced referee John Callas to administer a standing 8-count against Gonzalez in Arias’ corner.

Dannis Aguero Arias holds up his hand in victory as he stops Irvin Gonzalez Jr. PHOTO BY CES BOXING

In round four, Arias connected with a solid right in the early going and another right hand later in the round, with about a minute remaining, sent Gonzalez crashing to the canvas at center-ring. Callas did not bother to give a count as he waved the action off at the 2:04 mark. Arias, now 20-2 (17), captured the vacant WBC silver featherweight title with his victory. Gonzalez, who had not fought in 13 months due to elbow and hand surgeries, saw his ledger dip to 15-4 (11).

Junior middleweight Chordale Booker, 18-1 (7), won a dominant, though less than scintillating eight-round decision victory over McAllen, Texas’ Angel Hernandez. The scores were 80-72 (twice) and 79-73.

Mitch Louis-Charles, a Quebec, Canada native now fighting out of Boston, MA, pulled off the upset of the night when he stopped previously unbeaten Josniel Castro, 9-1 (7). Castro was content to fight off the backfoot in the early going of the bout, but got more aggressive in the third round. Maybe he should have stuck to sticking and moving rather than pressing forward, because Louis-Charles got off some good combinations at the start of the fourth stanza, not long after, a beautiful right to Castro’s jaw sent him to the canvas and he never beat the count. The official time of the stoppage was 1:36.

“It was a year-and-a-half I hadn’t fought,” said Louis-Charles. “My coach was telling me to get more active and use that double jab [which set up the right hand].”

Louis-Charles, 154 ½, said a lot of pre-fight trash talking “motivated me” and made him put forth an extra effort to show Castro, 153 ½, who the better man is. He upped his record to 7-3-2 (4).

In light heavyweight action, Kendrick Ball Jr., of Worcester, MA, 174, escaped with a majority draw after looking less than his normal self against Argentinian Victor Hugo Exner. Exner, who had the most impressive back muscles of the night, took the fight to Ball, who found himself unable to keep the shorter man at the end of his longer arms. Exner, 174 ½, applied more pressure as the rounds wore on, and by the end of the sixth, most reporters at ringside thought unbiased judging would see Exner’s hand raised in victory. Reporters and boxing fans alike were dismayed when the majority draw was announced. On the bright side, at least Exner was given a draw against the local guy, rather than heading home with a robbery loss. It could have been worse. Ball’s record is now 19-1-3 (12) while Exner’s ledger stands at 9-12-2 (3). Although Exner did not get the win, he proved that you should never pre-judge a man by his record. He had more losses than wins, but gave the once-beaten Ball all he could handle over six rounds.

Kendrick Ball Jr. -R- opens up with a two-fisted attack on Victor Hugo Exner -L-. PHOTO BY KIRK LANG.

Rising local lightweight Alejandro Paulino, 134, of New London, CT, won via 5^th round stoppage over Alliance, Ohio’s Ryizeemmion Ford, 8-4 (6). He dropped Ford, 134, in the third frame and in the fifth stanza, stunned his man with a hard right, then followed up with a barrage of shots that forced referee Danny Schiavone to end matters at the 1:17 mark. Paulino upped his record to 12-0 (10).

Kevin Walsh, 130 ¼, of Brockton, MA, claimed the vacant New England junior lightweight title with a six-round majority decision over New York City’s Christian Otero. The scores were 59-55, 59-54 for Walsh, while one judge saw it 57-56 for Otero. A right hand put Otero on the canvas in the opening round, however, that did not deter him as he was aggressive over the course of the fight. Walsh’s boxing ability, though, was a level above Otero’s. Walsh raised his unbeaten record to 7-0 while Otero dropped to 4-3.

In heavyweight action, Gabriel Aguilar Costa, of Woburn, MA, overcame a second-round knockdown to earn a split decision victory over Brockton, MA native Chad Leoncello. It was sweet revenge for Costa, who suffered a stoppage loss to Leoncello two months ago. Costa is now 1-3 while Leoncello falls to 1-1-1.

Mixed martial arts fighter Mike Kimbel, 141 ½. Of Waterbury, CT, had a great pro boxing debut, stopping Baldwin, New York’s Robert Banks in the fourth round of their scheduled four-rounder. The action was moderate through three frames, but in the fourth Kimbel stepped it up, stinging Banks with numerous shots, most notably left hooks. After a final assault, referee John Callas stepped in and waved it off. The time was 1:50. Banks is now 0-2.

Stevie Jane Coleman, 134, of Columbia, CT, earned a hard-fought four-round decision victory over Michaela Nogue, 134 ½, of Egg Harbor, NJ. Two judges had it 39-37 for Coleman, while one judge saw it a draw at 38-38. Nogue did put forth a solid effort, especially in the middle rounds, but Coleman finished strong in the final stanza to get the edge in a competitive scrap. Her record now stands at 4-1 (1) while Nogue dips to 2-3.

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CES BOXING STARTS OFF THE CHRISTMAS SEASON WITH MERRY MIRACLE UPSETS  AND JOLTING JINGLE BLOWS AT THE HOLIDAY BASH!

Story by Kirk Lang

Springfield, MA. With less than a month before Christmas, two underdog boxers walked out of the Mass Mutual Center late Saturday evening feeling like kids again

Forty-year-old Mike Guy – who had not won a fight in two years – not only defeated local hero Kendrick Ball Jr., of Worcester, MA, but also picked up some shiny hardware, the WBC USNBC super middleweight championship.

The other upset of the night was Puerto Rico’s Jayron Santiago Lopez, who won a split decision over New Britain, CT’s Nathan Martinez. After an accidental headbutt opened a cut over Martinez’ eye in the sixth and final round, the fight went to the scorecards and Santiago Lopez got the nod with two judges scoring the bout for him 58-56. The third judge saw it 58-56 for Martinez.

Going into the featherweight bout, Santiago Lopez had more losses than wins. Now he record is at least even steven at 8-8-1 (5).

Kendrick Ball was the taller man against Mike Guy – 6’2” compared to 5’8” – was younger and on an eight-fight winning streak. He previously fought in August across the street from The Mass Mutual Center at MGM Springfield, winning a decision over Tyi Edmonds. Guy, on the other hand, had not tasted victory in 2021 heading into his bout with Ball, and he went winless the entire calendar year of 2020. It seems he had had enough. He certainly was not going to finish 2021 without a “W.”

Upset Winner Mike Guy – Photo by Will Paul.

Known for his relentless style, Guy brought everything he had on this night and did not disappoint. He caught Ball with a solid right hand to begin the opening round and before it was over, Guy dropped him with an overhand right! Ball got up off the canvas, but Guy delivered more punishment with Ball bullied against the ropes.

The second frame saw Guy trying to capitalize on the knockdown late in the first round, but Ball did not wilt under the pressure. Guy continued his forward march in round three, bombs away. Ball finally created a little distance with some improved boxing late in the stanza. He also experienced some success with keeping Guy at bay in the fourth round. Ball boxed well in round five and by the end of round six he was ripping off impressive combinations. Guy, however, regained control in the seventh frame, especially in the second half of the stanza when he threw combinations as if he was being paid by the punch.

Guy established who was boss at the start of the eighth round with a beautiful straight right-left hook wallop. He followed up with a barrage of leather as Ball, seemingly tiring, was unable to maneuver away from the ropes. Ball had a brief moment in which he summoned the energy for a mini-rally, but it was not enough. Guy came back and cracked him with a beautiful combination at the round’s end to remind Ball that this was not going to be a holiday celebration for the local hero.

Early in the ninth round, Guy knocked Ball’s head back with a huge right hand. He followed up with a flurry of punches along the ropes, forcing the referee to step in and call a halt to the proceedings at the 1:26 mark.

With the surprise loss, Ball fell to 17-2-2 (11), while Guy’s record improved to 13-7-1 (6).

As for the Martinez-Santiago Lopez fight, early on it looked as if things might bode well for Martinez. Although he started slow in the opening frame, he dropped Santiago Lopez in the second round after connecting with consecutive right hands. Martinez continued to dominate the frame, although his work rate seemed to slow in the third round. It was not a particularly impressive session from either guy, but Santiago Lopez probably deserved the round, due to the fact he was busier. Martinez looked like a sharpshooter in the fourth round, taking his time to pick his shots rather than just fire away hoping to land something big.

Jalen Renaud scores with a right hand. Photo by Will Paul.

Santiago Lopez worked behind a solid jab in the fifth round. Between his steady jab and side-to-side movement, Martinez found it hard to get an edge on him. He finally let his hands go in the final 10 seconds of the frame, but it was too little too late.

An early accidental headbutt in the sixth frame would send the fight to the scorecards, and from this reporter’s perspective, the local fighter should have been a little worried, as he did not exactly dominate. Sometimes a hometown hero can get a decision he does not deserve, but justice prevailed on this night, with the correct fighter getting the decision victory.

Santiago Lopez, who had lost three of his previous four bouts, upped his ledger to 8-8-1 (5), while Martinez fell to 7-2 (2).

In other action, longtime CES-promoted pugilist Shelly “Shelito’s Way” Vincent, 27-2 (1), pitched a one-sided shutout of ShellyBarnett, 5-6-2. Though 42, she looked more like 22 against the far less experienced of the two Shellys. Not normally known for her boxing finesse, Barnett had Vincent looking like the female version of Willie Pep, slipping punches like the great featherweight legend. Vincent, a fan-friendly featherweight who always sports a brightly colored mohawk, has now won four in a row since her last defeat, a decision loss to Heather Hardy for the vacant WBO featherweight title back in October 2018. Hardy is the only person to ever defeat Vincent. She also beat her back in 2016, when the vacant WBC International title was up for grabs.

In junior middleweight action, Jalen Renaud, of Springfield, MA, registered quite possibly the knockout of the night with a fourth-round stoppage of muscle-bound Jurmain McDonald, of Jefferson City, MO. While Guy stopping Ball was an impressive finish, definitely the upset of the night, Renaud’s bout-ending shot was more thunderous than Guy’s succession of blows bringing an end to his opponent.     Renaud, tall and lanky, was more athletic than his body beautiful foe. McDonald would impress if he was at the beach, but in the ring, it was all Renaud. McDonald looked stiff and slow by comparison. He was not exactly busy with his hands and there seemed to be no spring in his legs. In the fourth frame, Renaud landed a right hand counter that sent McDonald crashing and flat on his back. The referee waved the fight off immediately, at the 1:37 mark.

Renaud is now 7-0 (3), as McDonald fell to 5-5 (2).

Jalen Renaud gets his arm raised in victory. Photo by Will Paul.

Steadily improving 21-year-old welterweight Stevie Jane Coleman improved to 2-1 with a four-round decision over LeAnn O’Malley, 1-1, of Las Vegas, NV. O’Malley looked to be the aggressor against Coleman. However, Coleman’s boxing skills, which are being constantly sharpened under the tutelage of Paul Cichon, a Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame inductee, carried her through to victory. Coleman lost her pro debut in May, but rebounded this past September at the Hartford Civic Center against Christina Barry.

Stevie Jane Coleman emerges victorious. Photo by Will Paul.

Springfield featherweight Joshua Orta, extended his unbeaten record to 8-0 (4) with a fourth-round stoppage of Kody Murray, 0-1, of Bristol, VT. A barrage of blows quickly had Murray, a late substitute opponent, literally sitting on the bottom ring rope taking a ton of punishment. The referee ruled it a knockdown and as he was giving a count he decided to end matters at the 2:24 mark.

In a heavyweight battle, Timothy Hatfield, of Providence, RI, won his pro debut with a first-round TKO of Rodrigo DaRocha, of Woburn, MA. Soon after the opening bell, a two-fisted attack put DaRocha down near a neutral corner and he was unable to beat the count. The official time of the stoppage was 1:03. DaRocha fell to 0-2.

Springfield super featherweight Isaiah Cruz, 2-0 (1), spoiled the pro boxing debut of Darren Mima, of Kingston, NY, with a fourth-round TKO. Cruz was the far quicker fighter over the first three rounds. Mima, perhaps frustrated by his own shortcomings, and unable to match Cruz punch for punch, resorted to excessive holding in the third round. Mima is apparently used to grabbing, as he is a 19-fight MMA veteran. However, this is boxing and the punch-and-grab tactics only seemed to make Cruz angry. One round later, he pounded his foe with hard left hands to the body. Cruz was then able to create some distance between himself and Mima. Although Mima’s grabbing tactics made a comeback, it would be a short return. Cruz put Mima down with a crackling left hook. When Mima got up and the fight resumed, another left hook would force the referee to end the contest, mere seconds before the bell to end the four-rounder. The official time was 2:58.

The eight-bout card was presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports. Burchfield is New England’s most active promoter for decades and rightfully has a plaque on the wall of the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame. Burchfield was inducted in 2012.

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Film of legendary featherweight king Willie Pep begins filming in West Hartford, Connecticut

Story by Kirk Lang

Photos by Alyssa Lang

West Hartford Connecticut. Five Penske Truck Rental vehicles could be seen parked in front of 146 and 150 Raymond Road this past week. However, it was not a case of anyone moving in or out, but rather, moving on up.

Pep film actor/producer James Madio

That is because legendary 1940s era featherweight champion Willie Pep, who was born in Middletown and grew up in Hartford, will see his story immortalized on the big screen. The rental trucks housed, among other items, wardrobes, lighting equipment, and various period props. The interiors of the two West Hartford residences served as the Pep home and Willie’s sister’s home as scenes with actors were overseen by director Robert Kolodny.

It’s been nearly 80 years since Pep won his first world title and most everyone that saw him perform in his prime has passed on. However, writer/producer Steve Loff and actor/producer James Madio want to make sure Pep, one of the greatest featherweights of all time, and arguably the greatest defensive fighter that ever lived, is given his just due. If fighters of lesser skill and legend can see their stories turned into movies, then Pep surely deserves a film.

Pep was the youngest to win the featherweight title (20 years old), was the first featherweight boxer to regain the title and at one point boasted a record of 135-1-1. Even after fighting on into his 40s, he retired with a ledger of 229-11-1.

James Madio, perhaps best known for a co-starring role in The Basketball Diaries with a young Leonardo DiCaprio, and as a key cast member of the HBO series Band of Brothers, was told by his boxing fan father years ago that he looked like Pep and that portraying the legend was a role he was born to play. When Loff linked up with Madio in 2008 in Los Angeles, he noticed a picture of Pep on his bulletin board. After Madio gave him the back story, Loff said he would be glad to help make the Pep project a reality. Thirteen-and-a-half years later, after a revised script that now focuses on one period of Pep’s life – his 1960s comeback – it is finally happening.

Pep film outside photo actors and director under tent.

“We never gave up,” said Loff. “Willie always signed, ‘Keep punching.’ So that was something that always kept Jim and I going. I never felt even years ago when I had the draft that wasn’t getting traction, before I wrote the new draft, I never felt we were dead. I always felt like, for some reason, I always felt like, if we just keep going, it’s not a matter of if we’ll make this movie. It’s just a matter of when. I’m proud that we stayed with it for all this time.”

And as for Madio, he said he’s “dedicated to bringing Willie’s story to audiences and to cement Willie’s legacy in cinematic history.”

Actors playing a young Pep and his sister.

And Madio is not above pitching in wherever he’s needed. Shortly after he arrived on location – before he was in wardrobe – he was outside with crew members. When one individual who was helping hold the roof-area aluminum framework of a canopy tent amid strong rains and wind got called away, Madio immediately raised his arm to grip a portion of the framework. Another crew member told him he did not have to do that and took over for him, but his quick assist showed his humbleness and that no task is beneath him, though he is the star of the movie.

Pep film actor/producer James Madio

Madio said his grandfather (James Madio Sr.) was a “knock-around club fighter from New York in the late 1930s.”

Willie Pep in his boxing prime.

“No record or serious bouts but he fought for watches and jewelry,” he said. Madio’s father turned him into a boxing fan.

After not getting any support for a Pep movie for some time, Loff revised the original 240-page script from a cradle to grave tale into a faux documentary script focusing on Willie’s comeback in the 1960s.

“It was like a bible, a little too long,” said Loff. “About five to six years ago, I came up with this idea, when our project was floundering, and it was too big a budget, I said what if we had found some documentary footage in the days and weeks leading up to Willie’s comeback. What if I wrote that story and made that the script? And when I did that, that changed everything.”

Sandy Saddler

Loff added, “That’s when we really started to get interest. Appian Way, Leonardo DiCaprio’s production company partnered with us on this. It opened everything. I think it was just a more inspired way to tell the story so that reflected on the page. There’s heart and soul in the way this story’s being told now and I was just really excited about that approach, and it afforded me an intimacy with the characters that I wasn’t getting as this objective observer and trying to tell the story of all the facets and pieces of Willie’s life.”

Rain made Friday’s filming more challenging, but it didn’t throw the shoot off schedule, although movie cameras are so sensitive, the sound of torrential rain outside could possibly be picked up and interfere with dialogue. Friday represented day 10 of a scheduled 18-day shoot and the fifth and final day of interior scenes at the Raymond Road residences.

Scenes shot involved Pep, Pep’s son Billy, played by Keir Gilchrist, and Willie’s sister Fran, played by Shari Albert. Cast and crew was scheduled to move on to exterior scenes in the south end of Hartford, where Pep grew up.

Pep film camera crew inside.

And for prop master Diego Quecano, that meant overseeing everything from period cars to car key chains to re-creating license plates, including Pep’s “W*Pep” plate.” The movie takes place in the 1960s but there are various flashbacks to the 1940s, Quecano said. The crew had its work cut out for it when it had to re-create a fight at Madison Square Garden at a local boxing gym. There will be no digital effects for the Garden scene, yet Quecano promises, “It’s really beautiful. You’re going to see it in the film.” Quecano secured 1940s era pencils and pads for the actors playing judges, among other things, from local antique shops.

For scenes at the Pep home, Quecano was responsible for cooking all the Italian food that will be on camera. “And because this is the 1960s, we have a Jello mold,” said Quecano. It’s all about the details. Even a watch Madio will wear has an engraving on the back that says, “For the Champ – It was a pleasure watching you fight.”

The film is being made on a budget of roughly 1.5 million dollars. More often, films are being shot here in the Nutmeg State, in part because of an enticing tax credit not seen in New York City and other locales.

Loff explained Connecticut allows a 30 percent tax credit on all monies, “whether it’s above the line talent like cast and directors or producers or below the line expenses, all of it qualifies for 30 percent tax credit.”

He added, “So if we spent a million in theory, we get $300,000 back. There’s always a loss. You assume a 5 or 10 percent loss. On $1 million, you’re probably going to get $250,000 let’s say. You’re going to lose a little bit, but what we did here is we used that credit, and I’m still working through this process, we’re using the tax credit to take a loan up front.”

Pep film with John Scully and director and Kirk Lang.

Big budget films sometimes get five to six weeks’ worth of shoot time. Blockbuster movies may even get 12 weeks at times.

“We’ve got 18 days,” said Loff. “It’s really tight. $1.5 million is really tight. You can’t pay people what they deserve to get paid for their services. You’re getting a much younger crew, so it’s important that you have good management at the top. We have a few veterans. You sprinkle in a few veterans. We have a great DP, a director that works fast, so despite the fact that we have a young crew, despite the fact we have a short schedule of 18 days and not a lot of money to work with, we’re doing our best to maximize all that and we are on schedule and on budget as of today.”

For many, seemingly random occurrences or run-ins are not so random, and Madio ran into Loff in Los Angeles back in 2008 mere days after his dad told him he looked like Willie Pep.

“That’s when I told [Loff] the Willie story and we immediately started the development process. Over a decade later here we are. Unreal. A dream come true.”

The film’s working title is Pep and is slated for a late 2022 or early 2023 release, according to Loff.

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Boxing Returns to Connecticut

By Kirk Lang

Boxing returned to Connecticut’s capital city on Friday September 24 – after a lengthy absence due to the Corona Virus / COVID 19 pandemic – with a six-bout card promoted by CES Boxing. The main event saw Greg “The Villain” Vendetti, of Stoneham, MA, win a 10-round decision over New Haven-based CES fighter Jimmy Williams at the Connecticut Convention Center.

Vendetti, 31, earned the nod with clear-cut scores of 99-91 and 97-93 on two judges’ cards.  However, judge Ken Ezzo, somehow had it 96-94 for Williams. Fortunately, two judges paid attention to what transpired in the ring and the right man walked away with the victory. Vendetti also earned the vacant WBC USNBC silver super welterweight title.

“A piece of hardware is always good for the collection,” said Vendetti, who added, “I feel good. I got the job done. I wanted the knockout but what can you do?”

Williams, 35, gave a good account of himself over the first two rounds, but the more aggressive Vendetti – preferring hard left hooks and chopping right hands rather than a steady jab – seemed to take control in the third frame. After nailing Williams with a big hook less than 20 seconds into the round, he followed up with a whirlwind attack with Williams trapped against the ropes. He would continue to land big shots and had the crowd cheering in the final 30 seconds as he let loose with a barrage of leather.

The bearded and heavily tattooed Vendetti continued to impress in rounds five and six, as Williams was unable to land hard stiff jabs to make his opponent think twice about coming forward. He also seemed to forget to follow up his jab with straight right hands or better yet, combinations, that might have curtailed Vendetti’s desire to come at him like a bull.

The seventh-round saw Vendetti trying some big right uppercuts with Williams once again up against the ropes. Williams didn’t do anything in the 8^th to try to turn things around. In the first half of the 9^th round, Vendetti seemed to rock Williams with a big shot.

In the last minute of the 10^th and final round, Williams, 152 ½, let his hands fly a little more, which created some nice two-way action between the two fighters. Williams again got bullied to the ropes, but this time he fired back with equal aplomb, and both fighters’ efforts had dozens standing and cheering them on.

Greg “The Villain” Vendetti

Vendetti, 153, raised his record 23-4-1 (12) while Williams fell to 18-6-2 (6). Williams fell to 18-6-2 (6).

Williams thought his career was back on track in his previous fight, when he defeated former junior middleweight champion Yuri Foreman in June in Atlanta, GA. However, Foreman was 11 years removed from his seven-month championship reign. And with the loss to Vendetti, Williams has only two wins in his last eight fights. Before Vendetti, he was on a two-bout win streak, but before that suffered consecutive defeats, had a draw and had another pair of losses before that.

In the 8-round co-main event, undefeated middleweight on the rise Chordale Booker won a lopsided eight-round decision over Silveiro Ortiz, 157, of Yucatan, Mexico.

Booker, who raised his record to 17-0 (7), was fighting in his home state for the first time. He didn’t get to truly impress, as Ortiz’ strategy to hold and clown around made things a bit ugly. He was twice deducted points, once for hitting behind the head and the second time, in the seventh round, for hitting below the belt.

“I knew he was a veteran type,” said Booker, “Uses his head, punches low. He did what he could to try to survive the fight.”

CES Boxing matchmaker Michael Parente admitted, “Booker had his hands full.”

“Ortiz is a tough veteran who rarely gets stopped and you can see why,” he said. “He’s tricky, elusive and likes to maul his opponents, and when you’re not used to that style it can be frustrating. “

Parente added, “I’m sure Chordale wanted to close it out with a knockout in front of his fans, but this fight will be good for him in the long run. Not every opponent will stand in front of you as a stationary target. They’re all different and he faced a unique one on Friday that I think will be a good lesson going forward.”

Booker was asked who he wants next.

“Whoever wins this next fight (between Williams and Vendetti), I want him next,” he said.

Returning to the ring for the first in nearly two years, featherweight Nathan Martinez, 126, of New Britain, won a unanimous six-round decision over Francisco Dominguez, 126 ½, of Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. The 19-year-old Martinez was simpler busier and more aggressive than the 35-year-old veteran in front of him. He raised his record to 7-1 (2) while Dominguez fell to 7-12-1 (1).

Undefeated Angel Gonzalez, 116, of Hartford, registered the only stoppage of the night when Juan Gabriel Medina, 117, of La Ramona, Dominican Republic, quit on his stool before the start of the fifth round. It was unclear why Gonzalez’ corner informed Dr. Michael Schwartz they were done, as Medina’s fourth round with Gonzalez was fought on even terms. Gonzalez is now 6-0 (4) and Medina dropped to 12-8 (11).

Ramon Caraballo, 146, of New Britain, had a successful pro debut in taking a four-round unanimous decision over Samuel Lajoie-Dery, 146, of Montreal, Canada. Lajoie-Dery came out on a tear in the opening round but after he got hit with a solid straight left in the second frame it made him think twice about attacking so aggressively.  Caraballo followed up with a volley of shots that put Lajoie-Dery on the canvas in center-ring. However, he made it to his feet and finished the round in impressive fashion, connecting with three good straight right hands just before the bell to end the stanza.

Lajoie-Dery also tasted the canvas in the first 30 seconds of the third round. And once again, he came back strong. However, his no quit heart wasn’t enough to win the fight. Caraballo got the nod on all three cards. Two judges had it 38-36 and a third card had it for Caraballo by a score of 38-37.

Carlos Perez, 140, of New Haven, fighting for the first time since 2019, won a unanimous four-round decision over Tyriek Gainey, 134, of Paterson, NJ. All three judges scored it 40-36. Gainey loses his pro debut while Perez rises to 2-0.

In the second swing bout of the night – and the only female match-up – Stevie Jane Coleman, trained by Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame inducted trainer Paul Cichon, also cruised to a unanimous four-round decision by scores of 40-36 on all three cards. “Scary” Christina Barry may have been bigger but she wasn’t better. Coleman bounced back from an unsuccessful pro debut in May, when she suffered a six-round majority decision loss to Kelsey Wickstrum. However, that fight took place in Tennessee. On Friday evening, she refused to lose in her home state, in front of family and dozens of friends. Coleman is now 1-1. Just 20 years old, she has plenty of time to fine-tune her skill set.

The September 24 card marked CES Boxing’s third post-COVID boxing show with fans (There had been a behind-closed-doors event in October 2020), according to Parente, who added he was “thrilled’ with Friday’s turnout.

“There are still restrictions in place to ensure the safety of fans, fighters and staff, but it’s great to see boxing in front of a live audience again,” he said. “I thought the crowd was energetic and amped up throughout the night. This was the first boxing event in Hartford since October 2019. The fans in this area waited a long time and it showed on Friday.”

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Arturo “Thunder” Gatti  and  “Bad” Chad Dawson  Lead Connecticut Hall of Fame Induction Class of 2019

Story By Kirk Lang

Photos by Alyssa Lang

The late Arturo “Thunder” Gatti, who was dubbed “The Human Highlight Reel” for his blood-and-guts performances and ability to bounce back from the brink of disaster, was posthumously inducted into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame at Mohegan Sun on November 9.

June 7, 2003; Atlantic City, NJ; Arturo Gatti (white trunks) and Mickey Ward (white/red trunks) trade punches during their second fight at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ.

While no one associated with Gatti was present to accept his induction plaque – trilogy opponent Micky Ward, who usually attends the annual dinner, was home nursing a double ear infection – top notch judge Glenn Feldman, founder and past president of the Hall, read some remarks he sought out from Kathy Duva, of Main Events, Gatti’s former promoter, and Pat Lynch, Gatti’s manager.

Arturo “Thunder” Gatti (R) and Micky Ward (L) engage in one of their memorable ring wars!

“He was an icon, an idol, a legend, an energetic impish presence and a great and loyal friend,” said Duva, who would add that the induction honor was “bittersweet.”

Gatti’s life ended in July 2009 at only 37 years of age under a cloud of controversy. His death was initially treated as a murder, with his Brazilian wife looked at as the prime suspect. A knife and bloody purse strap seemed to implicate her. However, Gatti’s death was subsequently ruled a suicide by Brazilian authorities.

Bad Chad Dawson (R) vs. Antonio Tarver (L).

Though the induction came 10 years after Gatti’s life was cut short, his presence was definitely felt on this night, due in large part to a gigantic banner that Feldman and Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame President John Laudati unveiled and raised to the roof of the Uncas Ballroom.

“This banner will be raised to the roof at the Mohegan Sun Arena,” said Feldman, “Hopefully at the next boxing match.” It featured an image of Gatti and Ward entrenched in battle with the words “Fight of the Century.” That’s not exactly an exaggeration either, since the fight was truly an epic battle, as well as the fact the current century (that of the 21^st variety) isn’t even 20 years in yet.

The previous boxing match dubbed “Fight of the Century” took place between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier 31 years prior to Gatti-Ward I, in the 20^th century.

“Bad” Chad Dawson at Ceremony,

Feldman, reading words from Lynch, said, “Arturo was one of the most special and gifted fighters boxing has ever seen. He was known as the heart and guts warrior and was exactly that.” Lynch added, “Arturo never quit in the ring and he never quit in life.”

Gatti was a modern posthumous inductee along with another legend, referee Arthur Mercante Sr. Mercante Sr. refereed more than 140 title fights across 47 years, and became a judge after retiring as a referee in 2001. The first title bout he worked was the second fight between Ingemar Johansson and Floyd Patterson on June 20, 1960. The most famous bout he worked was the first Ali-Frazier fight, which took place at Madison Square Garden on March 8, 1971. Mercante had many assignments in Connecticut over the years.  One of his children, Arthur Mercante Jr., followed in his father’s footsteps to become a top notch referee.

Mercante noted he inducted his father into the International Boxing Hall of Fame back in 1995.

“And now here I am 24 years later for his induction into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame, he said, adding, “It is especially moving because he is still recognized as one of the best referees in the sport.”

Two-time USBA welterweight champion Delvin Rodriguez at ceremony.

Mercante added, “To continue to be recognized by your peers all these years later is quite an accomplishment and my family and I are humbled and thankful for the award, which means another award that my brothers and I will have to fight over.”  Mercante had said early in his speech that the Connecticut award marks his father’s seventh induction into a Hall of Fame.

The living members of the 2019 induction class were former light heavyweight champion “Bad” Chad Dawson and two-time USBA welterweight champion Delvin Rodriguez. Two other inductees who went in posthumously were Teddy “Redtop” Davis and featherweight Eddie Compo.

Davis, who once took legendary featherweight champion Willie Pep the distance in back-to-back fights in 1948, won the New England lightweight title in Boston in 1953 against George Araujo. He retired in 1960 and passed away in 1966 at 42 years old. The New Haven-based Compo won his first 25 professional fights and eventually fought for the title against Pep in Waterbury in 1949. The match was much anticipated, as Compo boasted an impressive record of 57-1-3 heading into his fight with the featherweight legend. However, Pep recorded a 7^th round TKO. Compo retired from the ring in 1955 and finished his career with a 75-10-4 ledger. He passed in 1998 at the age of 69.

Dawson’s entry into the Hall marked the first time in 15 gatherings that an active fighter saw induction, and as such, rather than speaking solely about past glory days, both he and promoter Jimmy Burchfield promised there’s more entertaining fights ahead.
“Chad has given the world of boxing so many thrills throughout the years, and it’s not over yet,” he said. “It’s far from over.”

John Rinaldi, the Publisher of The USA Boxing News receives a roaring ovation when announced at the Hall of Fame dinner.

Six years removed from the last time he held a world title, Dawson is confident he can rise again after some setbacks.

“I’m 37. I’m not that young 23-year-old kid that won that world title back in 2007,” said Dawson. “I’m older, more mature…I just learned so much over the years. When I won my world title I thought I was the man, but I was still a little boy. I’m 37 and I’m still learning how to be a man, still learning every day, learning from my wife, learning from the people around me. People don’t understand that boxing is a dangerous sport. If I told you I wasn’t scared every time I get into that ring I’d be lying to you.”

(L-R)Randy Gordon, CBHOF judge Glenn Feldman and CBHOF President
John Laudati hold the plaque for 2019 CBHOF inductee – the late
Arturo Gatti.

He added, “It’s a dangerous sport and due to recent ring tragedies we just had, you know sometimes I’ve got to second-guess myself and think am I doing the right thing at my age? Should I still be fighting? Should I give it up? But I’ve still got that passion inside me and I still believe I’ve got one more world title inside me and I still can be one of the best fighters in the world.”

As he talked at the podium, Dawson was surrounded by his four children of varying ages – all boys – wearing T-shirts under their suit jackets with images of their father on them. The oldest one, Chad Jr., now 16, earned a bit of fame himself years back when he would accompany his father into the ring in his prime years, throwing educated punches as a toddler that he learned from his champ dad. He and another son now box amateur.

“All four of my boys look up to me,” said Dawson. “They are the greatest gift God gave me.”

Dawson won the light heavyweight title in February 2007 with a unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Tomasz Adamek. He would go on to twice defeat Antonio Tarver as well as Glen Johnson and in October 2011 fought Bernard Hopkins to a no-contest in a bid to become champion again after having lost his light heavyweight crown to Jean Pascal. The fight was initially ruled a TKO victory for Dawson but that result was later ruled a no-contest when it was determined Hopkins was unable to continue after getting thrown from a clinch in the second round. A rematch took place in April 2012 and Dawson dominated the boxing legend en route to a unanimous decision victory. And Hopkins’ career was far from over. Though Dawson gave him fits, Hopkins went on to win the IBF light heavyweight belt, as well as the WBA strap, in 2013 and 2014, respectively, in his late 40s, further cementing his legendary status as one of boxing’s all-time greatest pugilists.  Hopkins won three world titles in his 40s between 2011 and 2014, but he never had his way with Dawson, because at his peak, Dawson was as good as anyone. In fact, The Ring magazine once had him ranked 10^th on their pound-for-pound list. However, no less than Floyd Mayweather Jr., once gave him even better praise. During one of his retirements, he proclaimed Dawson the best pound-for-pound fighter in the sport.

Arthur Mercante Jr. accepts award for his deceased dad Arthur Mercante Sr.

Dawson isn’t that young gun anymore but he told everyone assembled at the induction dinner,” Don’t write me off yet. I’ve still got one or two special moments in me.”

The night’s final inductee was Rodriguez, who retired in 2017 with a 29-9-4 record. During his peak, he could always be counted on for truly entertaining fights. A two-time USBA welterweight champion and a regular face of ESPN’s Friday Night Fights broadcasts, he won 19 of his first 22 bouts (one bout in there was a draw).

He would lose his USBA belt to Jesse Feliciano by stoppage in March 2007 but regained the belt in July 2008 with an 11^th round TKO of Oscar Diaz in Diaz’ hometown of San Antonio, Texas. Diaz was 26-2 at the time.

In 2008, he tangled with Isaac Hlatshwayo and managed a draw in Hlatshwayo’s home country of South Africa. The two would meet again, this time at Mohegan Sun in August 2009 with the vacant IBF welterweight championship on the line.  It was Rodriguez’ first world title shot. Once again, he fell a tad short, losing a split decision. 

However, the night of his Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame induction, Feldman presented Rodriguez with an IBF championship belt.

Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame Past Inductees gathered at Induction Ceremony.

Feldman told him, “Many people felt you had won one, if not both of your fights against Isaac, and in honor of those two great fights, please accept this IBF world title belt. This is a belt that may have alluded you 10 years ago, but we’re going to make up for that right now, and on behalf of IBF President Daryl Peoples (who was sitting at a nearby table), congratulations.”

Rodriguez was elated to be enshrined among greats such as Marlon Starling, Willie Pep and others, but on a more basic level, he was simply happy to see so many familiar faces again.

“An event like this brings so many memories back to mind,” he said, as he looked out into the crowd and saw referee Johnny Callas, a gym owner who also served as a mentor to Rodriguez as a youth. Rodriguez came to the United States at 8 years old from the Dominican Republic. He also talked about Ishmael “Mike” Salazar, who was a volunteer trainer at the Hat City Boxing Club in Danbury. Salazar passed away in 2016 at the age of 98. Rodriguez, who now does some broadcasting work, also made sure to mention his wife Evelyn, who has been “with me since she was 15.”

He added, “I’ve got so many friends because of boxing. Good friends, bad friends, but you learn. You learn business. I became a businessman because of boxing…Thanks to all the people that surrounded me. There are so many people that couldn’t make it tonight. It is because of everyone that my life turned out the way it is.”

In addition to the inductees, there were five awards presented early in the night. Kevin and Roma Smith received the Amateur Officials of the Year Award; Feldman took home The William Hutt Official of the Year Award; Felix Parilla, who was named the Outstanding Boxer at the New England Tournament of Champions for the second straight year, earned The Roland Roy Amateur Boxer of the Year honors; NABA light heavyweight champion Charles Foster, 29, received the Professional Boxer of the Year award; and Sherman Cain, a longtime writer for the Journal Inquirer in Manchester, was presented The George Smith Contribution to Boxing Award.

The night’s Master of Ceremonies was Randy Gordon, former Editor-In-Chief of The Ring magazine, former chairman of the New York State Athletic Commission, and current host of “At the Fights” on Sirius XM Radio Network. The night began with a cocktail reception just outside the Uncas Ballroom. There was also a silent auction and a 50/50 raffle that earned one lucky winner $895.

Fighter attendees at the 15^th annual dinner/induction, included, among others, “Iceman” John Scully, “Poison” Junior Jones, three-division champion Iran Barkley, former ESPN welterweight champion Troy “Schoolboy” Wortham, former IBO super middleweight champion Dana Rosenblatt, former NABF junior welterweight champion “Sucra” Ray Oliveira, former USBA lightweight champion Israel “Pito” Cardona and ex-welterweight king Marlon Starling.

Scully, a regular attendee, told The USA Boxing News, “I love going to the event because I am sure to see someone I have not seen in a long time from my boxing past in the state.”

He added, “I think most guys like me are at the age and time in their boxing career where they really appreciate running into people from days gone by.”

Steven Ike, a local boxing historian and serious autograph collector, said his highlight moment of the night was running into two granddaughters of the late Vic Cardell, a 2007 inductee who fought the likes of Kid Gavilan, Ike Williams, Carmen Basilio and others in the 1950s.

He gave them the only Vic Cardell autograph he had.

“They had never met him (Cardell passed in 1987). I just felt they should have it,” he said. “It made them happy.”

“You’ve got to love the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame,” said referee Danny Schiavone, ‘Because it’s geared toward honoring the great boxing people from around our region.”

Dawson Defeats Grachev

By Kirk Lang

October 11, 2019 – Hartford, CT – Returning to the ring for the second time following a two-year layoff, former light heavyweight champion “Bad” Chad Dawson looked sharp in taking an eight-round unanimous decision over Russian-born Denis Grachev at the Connecticut Convention Center.

The winner – Chad Dawson.

Dawson took far less punches than he did back in June against Quinton Rankin, who caught him numerous times with straight lefts and dropped him and almost stopped him with a left uppercut in the fifth round of their eight-round affair at Foxwoods Resort Casino.

Dawson boxed beautifully against Grachev, even if that meant giving the crowd less action than it hoped for. When Grachev tried to pressure Dawson, the 37-year-old New Haven pugilist sidestepped like a light heavyweight Willie Pep or stepped back just enough to be out of range of the shorter Grachev’s punches.

Former light heavyweight champion “Bad” Chad Dawson (L) lands a straight left to the jaw of Denis Grachev (R).

Someone in the crowd yelled out “Let’s get this party started,” at the start of the third round, apparently displeased with the lack of back-and-forth action and Dawson’s unwillingness to unnecessarily put himself in harm’s way over the first two frames. Dawson knew how close he came to losing in his previous fight, so he made sure this time out to keep his opponent at the end of his punches, at the end of his longer arms.

Halfway through the third stanza however, Dawson began to get a bit more aggressive, clearly putting more steam on his punches. The fourth was another good round for Dawson and in the fifth, he displayed some shifty movement that had Grachev punching at air.

Main Events-promoted heavyweight Cassius Chaney (L) scored a first-round knockout of former cruiserweight title challenger Santander Silgado (R).

Grachev had his best moment of the fight halfway through round six when he countered a hard left uppercut from Dawson with a hard right hand. Grachev followed up with more leather as Dawson seemed content to try Muhammad Ali’s rope-a-dope technique employed against George Foreman in 1974. Before the round was over, Dawson was off the ropes and landing some good shots to end the round, including another uppercut and a quick one-two combination just before the bell to end the stanza.

Fifteen seconds into the 7^th round, Dawson ripped Grachev with a three-punch combination and as the round progressed, Dawson showcased some slick footwork, making the man who thought he was going to frustrate Dawson with pressure look foolish. Dawson closed the round with some impressive straight left hands. The eighth and final round was another dominant three minutes from the former champion.

Dawson was announced the winner by scores of 80-72 (twice) and 79-73.

“I’m 37 years old but I feel like I’m 25,” said Dawson,” who is once again reunited with his amateur trainer Brian Clark, who was inducted into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame last year. Dawson, who will be inducted into the same Hall on Nov. 9, added, “I’m ready for any of the big guys at the top. If any of these guys wanna test me, the better the competition, the better I’m gonna perform.”

With his latest victory, Dawson wins the vacant WBC USNBC light heavyweight title and improves to 36-5 (19), with two no-contests. Grachev is now 19-9-1 (10).

In the night’s co-feature, unbeaten Main Events-promoted heavyweight Cassius Chaney scored a first-round knockout of former cruiserweight title challenger Santander Silgado. Following a couple of jabs with the first right hand he threw, Silgado, 28-8 (22), fell flat on his back and was laid out, positioned like he was in the midst of making a snow angel. He didn’t move for a minute or two but eventually got up with some kindly assistance and left the ring on his own accord.

Chaney said he had wanted to get some rounds in, “but once he threw a few punches my thoughts changed.”

Chaney added, “He wanted to land something sneaky so I felt I needed to land something clean that he felt. And I threw a basic double jab-right hand combination. He saw the jab but the right hand landed right on the chin and I knew he was done.”

The official time of the stoppage was 1:03. Chaney improved to 17-0 (11). A former University of New Haven basketball star, Chaney turned to pro boxing at a later age than most. However, this 32-year-old, who doesn’t drink, smoke or do any other drugs, is determined to do everything it takes to achieve his goal of becoming heavyweight champion, and this year has been an impressive one. His win over Silgado was preceded by an ESPN+-televised performance back in July in which Chaney knocked Joel Caudle out of the ring before stopping him a short time later. This New England prospect is on the fast track to reaching contender status.

David Benavidez Gives Boxing Fans a Taste of Training Camp

By Kirk Lang

Photos by Alyssa Lang and Kirk Lang

It was billed in a press release as his official start of training camp but David Benavidez’ challenge of WBC super middleweight champ Anthony Dirrell was still months away when he took on three sparring partners under the pavilion at the International Boxing Hall of Fame in upstate New York during the Hall’s 30^th annual induction weekend.

“This is not really the start of my camp,” said Benavidez. “I still have 16 weeks left ‘til the fight. So I just came out here, enjoyed the people, got some good sparring and just enjoyed myself. I put a show on for the fans.”

David Benavidez (second from left) with his three sparring partners.

Benavidez, 21-0 with 18 knockouts, became the youngest ever super middleweight champion in September 2017 when, at 20 years old, he won a 12-round decision over Ronald Gavril for the vacant WBC super middleweight championship. However, a career misstep saw him test positive for a banned substance last September and he lost his crown.

At the time, Benavidez was scheduled to make the second defense of his belt against Dirrell. The title subsequently became vacant and Dirrell took possession of it in March with a victory over Avni Yildirim.

David Benavidez working out at the Boxing Hall of Fame.

The June 7th sparring in Canastota, New York, along with some shadowboxing the following day, provided a little sample of training camp life for approximately 100 boxing fans that crowded around the outdoor ring in perfect weather. Benavidez, who is intent on getting his belt back, didn’t appear to be too far from fighting weight, and looked sharp as he went three rounds a piece with a trio of local sparring partners.

David Benavidez getting ready for WBC champ Anthony Dirrell.

Benavidez, far more experienced than his opponents, clearly seemed to be holding back at times, but he also made sure to work on defensive maneuvers. However, he did let his hands go here and there, including when he positioned Syracuse, New York-based 6-foot-four-inch pro boxer Lawrence Gabriel, whose record currently stands at 3-2-1, into a neutral corner. Benavidez let the crowd know he could turn the heat up whenever he felt like it. In fact, although Gabriel has survived bullets – in 2015 he was the victim of multiple gunshot wounds while trying to stop a crazed gunman at a Syracuse bar – he couldn’t survive Benavidez. He came close though. As his third and final round with the former world champion neared its end, Gabriel got caught with a beautiful hook to the body. He rose to his feet, but needed a break and leaned against the ropes until the bell rang.

David Benavidez stretching out at the Boxing Hall of Fame.

“He’s a big puncher and he snaps every single punch,” Gabriel said. “And he gets his body into the right position to get power on all of his punches. He’s tough.”

Next up for Benavidez was the smallest of the three sparring partners – Luis “Azucar” Rojas. What Rojas lacked in stature he more than made up for in aggressiveness. Unfazed by Benavidez’ pedigree as a recent ex-world champion, he’d get in close and confidently let loose with combinations, usually to the head. Benavidez seemed to admire his opponent’s tenaciousness, but a well-placed power punch every so often let Rojas know who the real king of the ring was.

“I think he’s good,” said Rojas, who added, “I think he can be better. I’ve seen him fight before. I know he’s better than that.”

David Benavidez sparring.

Did Rojas think Benavidez was holding back?

“Sometimes,” he said.

What did he learn from his three rounds with the former champion who is still at the top of the class at super middleweight?

“That you’ve got to stay ready, all the time,” said Rojas, who admitted to not being at his peak physically at this point in the summer.

David Benavidez sparring before the Hall of Fame crowd.

The last sparring partner for Benavidez was 25-year-old Michael Rycraft, of Utica, NY. Tall and quick with his hands as well as his feet, Benavidez had to work harder in those final three rounds.

“The last one, he was the best one,” said Benavidez. “So I had to use every movement right. There could be no wasted movements.”

As good as Rycraft was, Benavidez left him with a bloody nose his corner-men had to attend to.

David Benavidez sparring before the crowd.

Rycraft seemed to appreciate the sparring, the opportunity, more so than the others that scrapped with Benavidez. He was seen talking with him and thanking him well after the sparring was over.

He told The USA Boxing News, “It’s a blessing. It’s a blessing to be in this position, to learn from a champion, a true champion, a young champion at that.”

Avid boxing enthusiast Mark Jones, of Syracuse, NY, who watched Benavidez’ nine rounds of sparring – a pre-cursor to actual training camp -believes Benavidez has the goods to defeat Dirrell.

David Benavidez in action.

“I think he’ll beat Dirrell based on his youth and the fact that Dirrell is in the post-prime phase of his career,” he said. “Benavidez has a big frame. I think he could eventually perform well at light heavyweight.”

Dirrell-Benavidez is scheduled to take place in late September in Los Angeles.

Clary Decisions Gonzalez to Win Vacant NABA Super Feather Title

By Kirk Lang

Photos by Al Derouin

August 29, 2019 – Mashantucket, CT – Foxwoods Resort Casino. 

In an all New England match-up of super featherweights, Providence, Rhode Island’s Toka Kahn Clary, 128, won a lopsided 10-round decision over previously once-beaten Irvin Gonzalez, 127, of Worcester, MA to take the vacant NABA super featherweight title. The scores were 99-91 twice and 98-92. However, this fight was far more competitive and exciting than the scorecards would indicate.

Toka Kahn Clary (R) stabbing Irvin Gonzalez with a straight right.

While Kahn Clary clearly had the speed advantage – at times looking like a southpaw version of a young Shane Mosley – his 23-year-old opponent was never discouraged and always answered back with punches of his own – often delivered in spirited combinations – that kept things interesting. Kahn Clary-Gonzalez headlined the latest installment of DiBella Entertainment’s Broadway Boxing, held on this night at Foxwoods Resort Casino’s Fox Theater.

Kahn Clary, trained by Peter Manfredo Sr. earlier in his career, is now a pupil of Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach. Kahn Clary’s sparring sessions with all-time great Manny Pacquiao seem to have given him an extra level of confidence in the ring, knowing that if he can trade shots with Manny at the Wild Card gym, then he can surely dare Irvin Gonzalez to try to hit him.

Hurshidbek “Hershey” Normatov

Gonzalez seemed a little bit in awe of Kahn Clary’s speed in the early going, hardly able to avoid the right jab and Kahn Clary’s preferred weapon of choice – the straight left hand. Kahn Clary bloodied Gonzalez’ nose in the second round. In the third frame, Gonzalez began to step up his aggression, willing to fire back more than he had in the first two rounds. The end of the fourth frame saw Gonzalez get off a couple of stiff right hands. If Kahn Clary wasn’t so quick-fisted, Gonzalez would have had more highlight reel moments. The fifth round featured great ebb and flow with both men trading serious punches that spurred on their respective cheering sections. Later in the round, Kahn Clary missed some big bombs that might have dropped Gonzalez had they landed. The final 30 seconds of the round turned into a live-action Rock ‘em, Sock ‘Em Robots affair. Gonzalez even seemed to hurt Kahn Clary as he took some shots along the ropes. However, Kahn Clary stood there strong and immediately fired back with a succession of power punches.

Hurshidbek “Hershey” Normatov (R) Walter Wright.

Gonzalez seemed a little arm weary to start the sixth frame but may have done enough throughout the round to earn the stanza, as Kahn Clary seemed to ease off the gas a bit himself. However, Kahn Clary came back strong in the seventh round, beginning with a right jab-right hook combination. In addition to his speed, it’s other things Kahn Clary does that are impressive, such as the lost art of feinting. Over and over again, he’d feint with his lead hand, or make a half step with his lead foot, and make Gonzalez think he was going to step forward and punch and then he’d fool him. Gonzalez was not only contending with far superior hand speed, he was often unsure of when Kahn Clary was actually going to attack. The combination of his speed and his feints often left Gonzalez perplexed, but the young pugilist showed no quit in him. He kept trying and gave a great account of himself. Gonzalez boxed well in the 8^th frame but Kahn Clary landed the best punch of the round – a smashing straight left to the face that might have briefly stunned Gonzalez – with less than 20 seconds to go.

Stephen “Big Shot” shawvs. Willie Jake Jr.

Gonzalez’ nose would bleed once more, in the 9^th round, after a beautiful straight left from Kahn Clary with about 1:20 left to go. Late in the 10^th frame, Kahn Clary absolutely battered Gonzalez in a neutral corner. Referee Johnny Callas kept a watchful eye on things, seemingly ready to stop the fight, but every time it looked like Kahn Clary might get the stoppage, Gonzalez fired back with something. He eventually got out of the neutral corner but couldn’t get away from Kahn Clary, who kept firing punches from all angles until the final bell, giving the crowd a great ending to a dominant but entertaining victory.

He improves to 27-2 (18) while Gonzalez falls to 12-2 (9).

Kahn Clary’s last defeat was a close decision loss at featherweight last October to unbeaten top contender Kid Galahad. Now fighting at super featherweight, he feels he’s not draining himself to make weight.

Stephen “Big Shot” Shaw knocking down Willie Jake Jr.

Asked whether he might return to the 126-pound class or stay at 130, Kahn Clary responded, “I’ve still got a six-pack at 130. I’m staying here. One-hundred-and-twenty-six kills me. I’m staying here.”

In the night’s co-main event, WBA super middleweight champion Alicia “The Empress” Napoleon-Espinosa, 161, of Lindenhurst, NY, stopped Schemelle Baldwin, 163, of Newark, DE, in the fourth round. The official time was 1:30.

Napoleon-Espinosa, 12-1 (7), was making the second defense of her belt and apparently had trouble finding an opponent of similar pro experience. Baldwin came into the fight with a record of 3-0-1 (2). Not only did the records not compare, Baldwin was also significantly slower of hand than the champion. Napoleon-Espinosa had her way with Baldwin, firing bursts of punches while consistently moving in and out of range without getting countered. Baldwin’s mouthpiece was sent flying in the second round. Early in the third frame, Napoleon-Espinosa began hammering away at Baldwin in Baldwin’s corner. The assault lasted for more than a minute. When the fight was dangerously close to getting stopped Baldwin let loose with a haymaker to show she still had some fire in her.

The fourth round was a repeat of the previous frame, with Baldwin again getting blasted in her own corner. A plastic piece of her chest protector fell out. Soon after, with Baldwin merely serving as target practice for the champion, referee Al Lobianco stepped in and ended matters.

Undefeated Hurshidbek “Hershey” Normatov, 152, of Andijan, Uzbekistan, now based in Brooklyn, NY, won the NABA super welterweight title with a lopsided eight-round decision over 38-year-old veteran Walter Wright, 154, of Seattle. WA. The scores were 80-72 (twice) and 79-73. Normatov’s straighter punches and effective use of the ring negated Wright’s offensive attempts for the most part. Wright’s corner was yelling and imploring him to get closer and cut the ring off as early as the third round. Wright finally seemed to let his hands go at the start of the fourth frame. It seemed he was getting braver as the fight wore on. However, Normatov, a 6’2” southpaw, nailed him with some very stiff straight lefts to close out the round and make him think twice about being brave.

Normatov opened the fifth with some impressive combinations. In the sixth he was back circling the ring, scoring with jabs and straight lefts. Normatov maintained control in rounds seven and eight but for some reason kept looking up at the clock in the final round, which seemed odd because he didn’t look all that tired and he never let loose with punches in bunches to close out the final 10 to 15 seconds of the fight in impressive fashion. Normatov is now 9-0 (3) while Wright falls to 17-7 (8).

Stephan “Big Shot” Shaw, 251, of St. Louis. MO, extended his undefeated record to 12-0 (9) with a fourth-round stoppage of Willie Jake Jr, 233, of Indianapolis, IN. He dropped Jake in the opening round and then twice in the third stanza –  the first of the third round knockdowns had Jake going through the ropes nearly falling on judge Glenn Feldman– before seriously hurting Jake in the fourth with a left hook as Jake was in a neutral corner. Shaw followed up by targeting the head with hooks, straight right hands and uppercuts. Soon after, referee Johnny Callas ended matters, giving Shaw a TKO victory at the 0:56 mark. Jake is 0-2 in 2019 after riding a seven-fight unbeaten streak that dated back to July 2016. His record now stands at 8-3-1 (2).

Former WBC/IBF/IBO light heavy king Chad Dawson returns to the ring in start of comeback trail to become champion once again

Story by Kirk Lang

Mashantucket, CT – Foxwoods Resort Casino – Making his return after more than two years away from the sport, former light heavyweight champion “Bad” ChadDawson is giving himself one more go-round to try to reach the elite level once again.

In December 2017, he was TKO’d by Andrzej Fonfara, and in October 2014, Dawson – two fights removed from losing his WBC belt to Adonis Stevenson by first-round knockout– was outpointed by little known Tommy Karpency.

The 36-year-old New Haven fighter’s latest comeback almost hit a sour note. After outboxing fellow southpaw Quinton Rankin, 32, of Charlotte, NC, with relative ease over the first four rounds of their eight-round main event, Dawson got caught with a perfect rear hand left uppercut from Rankin that created the fight’s only knockdown and had Dawson buzzed for some time.

Fortunately for “Bad” Chad, a follow-up left hand to the back of the head from Rankin when Dawson was “down” – he did not hit the canvas, but collapsed to a squatting position and made contact with the ring floor with both gloves – prompting referee Micheael Ortega to provide him more time to recover than simply a standing 8-count.

Richard Schwartz, one of Rankin’s cornermen, complained that Dawson was given 41 seconds to clear his head before the action resumed. However, if Rankin, 32, had not thrown the illegal punch after the knockdown, he would have been able to mount a follow-up attack sooner rather than later while Dawson was in his most vulnerable state.

With roughly 1:20 remaining in the round, the action resumed and Rankin, 179, attacked Dawson, 178, along the ropes. Soon after however, time was called and Dawson received another respite, the result of referee Michael Ortega taking a point from Rankin for another punch behind the head. The slight break seemed to be the trick for the ex-champ because when both men to box again, Dawson looked like his younger self, ripping hard rapid-fire shots to the body with both hands. Trapped in a neutral corner, now seeing the man he dropped turning the tide in the same round, Quinton looked visibly tired. In addition to power punches, Dawson also did not forget the jab, and a series a right jabs set up a beautiful left uppercut seconds before the bell to end the round.

While Rankin’s most consistent punch of the night was a sneaky straight left, he also made the fight ugly. In addition to some punches behind the head, he was often guilty of pushing up on his opponent’s chin with his right arm. In the seventh round, Rankin finally had a point deducted for such a maneuver.

In the eighth and final round, the former champion boxed smartly, not wanting to give his opponent any possible chance to score another knockdown, or worse, connect with a fight-ending punch. With a minute left in the stanza, Dawson impressed the judges and the audience with a trio of right hooks in rapid succession. When there were only twenty seconds left on the clock, Dawson landed a solid right hook to the body, and Rankin, in one last good effort, countered with a hard straight left.

Other than the fifth round, the fight was pretty much a one-sided affair, as the judges had it 80-68 and 78-72 twice.

 “He [Rankin] was very durable, a very strong guy,” said Dawson. “He came to win and think for a two-year layoff that was a good guy to come back against. The kid was strong. He was better than what his record said.”

Dawson, 37, improved to 35-5 with 19 knockouts while Rankin fell to 15-6-2 with 12 knockouts.

In the night’s co-main event, another New Haven fighter notched a lopsided victory. Featherweight Tramaine Williams won a 10-round unanimous decision against Neil John Tabanao of the Philipines. The scores were 99-91 twice and 98-92. Williams, like Dawson, learned the fundamentals of boxing under the tutelage of local legend Brian Clark at New Haven’s Ring One Boxing gym. Because of the New Haven connection with the top two guys on the A-side of the bout sheet, the fight show was billed as “Homecoming Kings.” Foxwoods Resort Casino is little more than an hour from New Haven.

But whereas Dawson is trying to return to former glory, Williams’ star is still rising. The sky is the limit for him as long as he stays dedicated to his craft. Generally considered the most talented young boxer in the Nutmeg State, the win over Tabanao is the latest step on the path to a world title opportunity.

The opening round of Williams-Tabanao was a feel-out round for both fighters. Neither man had many solid connects and it seemed like they were an inch too far apart from one another at all times. Williams certainly possesses the speed to quickly close the gap but he seemed content to be patient and observe his man from afar, at least in the opening stanza.

A minute into the second round, Williams jumped in with two straight lefts that caught Tabanao’s attention. Later in the frame, Williams seemed content to make his adversary miss. A very solid defensive fighter, Williams draws comparisons to the recently deceased Pernell Whitaker, boxing’s former pound-for-pound king.

The third round saw Williams gradually increase his offensive output and “The Mighty Midget” ended the round with a beautiful right hook with about 12 seconds left in the frame. The fourth round saw increased use of the right hook but the best punch of the round was perhaps a lead straight left with about 25 seconds left.

Williams, 123, upped the aggression in the fifth stanza, yet also showcased some great upper body movement in evading Tabanao’s offensive attempts. Tabanao, 123, had some success in the sixth with a few right hands to the body, but Williams never allowed him to get into a groove. As Williams continued to dominate in rounds seven and eight, Tabanao was simply perplexed. Unable to land anything of significance, he found himself rushing at Williams like a bull at one point in the 9^th frame.

In the tenth and final round – halfway through the frame – Williams landed two successive straight lefts that caused Tabanao to fall back a step. He followed up with some good power shots, but was unable to get Tabanao out of there early.

Williams, 123, improved to 18-0 with 6 knockouts. Tabanao saw his ledger dip to 17-6 with 11 knockouts.

 “Tramaine controlled the action, the fight, to his pace,” said Williams’ trainer Mike Conroy, who had no issue with his fighter taking Tabanao the full 10 rounds. “Sometimes people don’t understand the art of boxing. Everybody wants to see the knockout but we knew he was a durable guy so we were not going to go in there and try to knock somebody out that hadn’t ever been stopped.”

On July 27 at the College Park Center in Arlington, VA, Williams, 26, won a 10-round unanimous decision over Yenifel Vicente, 33, to capture the vacant USBA and NABO super bantamweight championships on the undercard of the super lightweight unification clash between Maurice Hooker and Jose Ramirez. That means that Williams engaged in two fights in less than a month, which makes Tramaine on pace to earn “Pro Fighter of the Year” honors from the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame in 2019. The late July clash with Vicente was Williams’ fourth bout of the year, and that still leaves August through December for him to rack up a few more wins.