Fight Junkie

Kessler Knocks Out Green!

Comes Off The Floor To Win In Four.

Mikkel Kessler (45-2, 34 KOs) celebrated a spectacular debut at light heavyweight on Saturday night in Copenhagen when he knocked out Allan Green (31-4, 21 KOs) in the fourth round. Fighting in front of 15,000 wild fans at PARKEN Stadium, the Viking Warrior landed a huge left hook that sent his American opponent down and out and made Kessler the WBC Light Heavyweight Silver Champion. Green had a big first round, knocking Kessler down with a series of punches, but the 33-year-old Dane came back in style, finding his range and his target in the next rounds. In the fourth, he then ended the fight with one vicious left. “This was a great victory for me,” Kessler said. “I had to get rid of the ring rust in the first round. But once I got going, everything went according to plan. I am glad I could give my fans a spectacular victory. Their support was fantastic.”

Coach Jimmy Montoya praised Kessler´s power: “Mikkel has always had a lot of power in both hands. He prepared Green well to the body. He opened him up and then he caught him. And that was not a lucky punch.”

Kalle Sauerland was thrilled about Kessler´s performance. “This KO – and the way he set it up by hitting Green with body shots – showed that Mikkel is still at the very top of the sport,” the promoter stated. “I said before he needs to win and he needs to impress and today he delivered in impressive fashion. The people of Denmark can be very proud of their Viking Warrior. He has great fights coming up now.”

On the undercard, Patrick Nielsen improved to 15-0 (8 KOs) with a clear points victory over Gaetano Nespro, while Mateusz Masternak (27-0, 20 KOs) continued his unbeaten run with a clear points win over Hari Miles.

Solis Outclasses Airich!

New IBF Intercontinental Champion.

2004 Olympic gold medalist Odlanier Solis (18-1) won a wide unanimous decision to dethrone IBF intercontinental champion Konstantin Airich (23-6-2, IBF#12 / WBO#11) in front of 2,500 fans at Pharr Convention Center in Pharr (Texas).

After a 14 months layoff due to the bad knee injury he had suffered in his WBC world heavyweight championship bout against Vitali Klitschko, Solis clearly dominated the one-sided bout from the opening bell without showing the devastating speed and power which had led him to quick KO wins over former world title challengers Monte Barrett and Carl Davis Drummond in 2009 and 2010.

In the third round "La Sombra" stepped on the gas for a nice combination which seemed to hurt Airich but the game German managed to survive the attack. But whenever Airich tried to get close enough to put pressure on Solis, the Cuban defector and former amateur standout showed his excellent defensive skills. After taking a little break in the middle rounds Solis went for the knockout in the 11th and 12th but Airich hung in there despite losing his mouthpiece twice in the 11th. In the end, the judges scored the bout 118-110, 119-109, 119-109 in favour of Solis.

"I felt that I had too much respect for Solis", said a disappointed Airich after the fight. "I didn’t go in as aggressively as I could have because I know that he is an excellent counterpuncher. I just didn’t deserve to win this fight but I will be back."

"Konstantin showed a good fight and a good chin", states Solis. "I tried to knock him out but he can take a shot. I also know that he is a hard-hitter so I tried to stay away from him. After all I am happy that my knee is well and that I could prove that I can go the championship distance even after my long injury break. I’m back. Now I want to fight more regularly to get back in the best possible shape. I know that there are a lot of things I can still work on and improve. But I am happy that I won the fight and took the belt as I had promised."

Promoter Ahmet Oner was not happy with the performance of his Cuban star. "We all know that Solis can do better", says Oner. "He looked a little rusty after the long lay-off. I wanted him to send a statement to the Klitschkos. After this performance we know that there is still a way to go. Now I have to do my job and get Solis fights against good opponents so he can improve and show that he is a world champion in the making."

Battle Of The Badges 4 Results!

FDNY DEFEATS MCOFU.

The nationally-acclaimed New York City Fire Department Boxing Team (FDNY) defeated the Mass Corrections Officers Federated Union Boxing Team (MCOFU), 7-2, tonight in the "Battle of the Badges 4" at Fox Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut. FDNY took a 3-1 advantage in the amateur boxing series.

"Battle of the Badges 4" ("BOB4") was presented by National Public Safety Athletic League ("NPSAL") in association with the FDNY Boxing Bravest, MCOFU and Foxwoods Resort Casino.

Attending media members selected the following award winners: Fight of the Night, Jamall Spence (NYPD) vs. Jarrod Lussier; Most Outstanding Fighter, Josh DeLaRosa; Sportsman of the Night, Matt Kehoe.

The entire card was streamed live on GoFightLive.tv with Hermis Yannis (Hawks Media) and "Iceman" John Scully, a former IBF and IBO world light heavyweight title challenger, calling all of the action from ringside.

Medals were presented to all of the participating boxers. Special guests making these presentations included two-time (2001-2003, 2004-2005) World Boxing Association ("WBA") Heavyweight Champion John "The Quietman" Ruiz, World Welterweight Champion (1955) Tony "The Pride of Fleet" Street" DeMarco, WBA & World Boxing Council ("WBC") (1979) Middleweight Champion Vito Antuofermo, former New England Patriots offensive lineman and three-time Super Bowl winner Joe Andruzzi, stand-up comedian and movie/television star Lenny Clarke; star-in-the-making singer James Massone ("The Voice"), and World Light Welterweight (1976) title challenger Tony Petronelli.

Proceeds from the May 19th charitable event benefited Work Vessels For Veterans, NPSAL and FDNY Boxing Bravest Team.

SUPER HEAVYWEIGHTS

Al Grdovich (FDNY) WPTS Marc Goguen (MCOFU)

Richie Duest (MCOFU) WPTS Timothy McGuinness (FDNY)

Matt Kehoe (NYAC) WRSC1 (1:00) Brian Schwenk, Sr. (MCOFU)

HEAVYWEIGHTS

Graham Trout (MCOFU) WPTS James Ling (NYAC)

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS

Tommy Beaulieu (MCOFU) WPTS Ryan Nordman (FDNY)

Jack Kirrane (FDNY) WPTS Dean Hardy (MCOFU)

Joe Schiraldo (FDNY) WRSC1 (1:22) Erik Cabral (MCOFU)

Mike Campbell (MCOFU) WPTS Paul Melocowsky (Hartford FD)

Josh DeLaRosa (MCOFU) WPTS Dean Lucier (FDNY)

MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Kevin Barry (FDNY) WPTS Marc Tigino MCOFU)

Todd Velton (FDNY) WRSC2 (1:40) Mike Douglas (MCOFU)

Jamaal Spence (NYPD) WPTS Jarrod Lussier (Fairhaven FD)

FEMALE LIGHTWEIGHTS

JJ Ignotz (FDNY) WPTS Ashleigh Moore (MCOFU)

Star Boxing Results!

SENSATIONAL NIGHT OF BOXING.

Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing returned to the Times Union Center in Albany, New York last night with a sensational ESPN Friday Night Fights card.

In front of an enthusiastic crowd of Capital Region boxing fans, Philadelphia's Raymond "Tito" Serrano and defending NABO junior welterweight champion Karim "Hard Hitta" Mayfield headlined in a scheduled ten round battle.

Throwing bombs with bad intentions from the opening round, Serrano and Mayfield engaged in a terrific clash that had the local fans on their feet throughout.

Towards the end of the third round Serrano was knocked down and suffered a cut on his forehead.

Valiantly fighting on against the aggressive Mayfield, Serrano opened up a cut near the title holder's left eye in the fourth round but was knocked down for the second time as the bell rang to end the stanza.

Continuing to fight as the bell rang for the fifth round, Serrano was knocked down again from a Mayfield right hand and referee Eddie Claudio stopped the bout at the time of 0:47.

The loss was the first of the 22-year-old Serrano's career moving his record to 18-1-0 (8KO's) while Mayfield stayed undefeated at 16-0-1 (10KO's).

In the super middleweight co-main Jason "Monstruo" Escalera of Union City, New Jersey and Geneva, New York's Nick Brinson put on a sensational eight round war for the Times Union Center crowd.

The undefeated Escalera spent most of the fight stalking the once beaten Brinson, with vicious hooks to the body of the counterpuncher.

Escalera had Brinson badly hurt in the seventh round, but the bout continued with the Geneva, New York resident hanging on for the duration of the final round.

Scores at end of the terrific clash were 76-75 (Escalera), 76-75 (Brinson) and 76-76. Escalera's record moved to 13-0-1 (12KO's) while Brinson went to 9-1-2 (5KO's).

In the ESPN Friday Night Fights opening bout, Kevin "KID" Rooney Jr. was upset by Newark's Anthony Jones in their fast packed four round middleweight bout.

Rooney Jr. suffered a controversially called knockdown in the first but was dropped in the third, which proved to be the difference in the scores, which were 39-35 and 38-36 (twice) for Jones who improved to 2-0-1 while Rooney Jr. moved to 4-2-0 (2KO's).

Come backing former world title challenger David Telesco of Port Chester, New York, was stopped in the fifth round of his scheduled eight round tilt against fast rising local cruiserweight prospect Vincent Miranda.

After four rounds of spirited action, Miranda dropped Telesco with a left hook to the chin halting the bout. With the win Miranda improved to 15-1-0 (9KO"s) while Telesco went to 30-8-1 (25KO's).

In a scheduled six round welterweight bout Rochester, New York's Kenny Abril, 12-5-1 (7KO's) stopped popular local fighter Bryan Abraham, 6-12-2 (6KO's) of Schenectady, New York in the fourth round, time was 2:45.

In the final bout of the evening Tony Brinson of Geneva NY and Lekan Byfield Atlanta GA both added a draw to their records moving to 2-1-1.

Spina V Biosse!

Spina Predicts KO Victory.

He worked the mitts flawlessly, each punch sending a message.

Showing off his lean, muscular physique, Providence’s own Joey “K.O. Kid” Spina turned heads at Saturday’s open workout at the Twin River Casino while promising to finish his opponent, Vladine Biosse, in grand fashion Thursday night.

“Fourth-round knockout,” Spina said defiantly. “I just don’t think he’s up to my ability.”

Spina (26-2-2, 18 KOs) will face Biosse on Thursday, May 24th, 2012 in the eight-round main event of “Up For Grabs,” presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports at the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, R.I., the second installment of the 2012 Thursday Night Fight Series.

In addition to Biosse’s New England Super Middleweight Title, bragging rights will be on the line as both fighters enter the ring representing their hometown of Providence.

For Spina, his biggest concern at the start of training camp was making the mandatory super middleweight limit of 168 pounds. A light heavyweight (175) most of his career, where he was once ranked among the Top 20 fighters in the world, the “K.O. Kid” has hit 168 pounds three times in the past two weeks, including Saturday when he tipped the scales at 167.

“I’ve been in the gym for a while now getting ready for this, so I feel good,” said Spina, who lost a split decision to Jerson Ravelo on March 30th in Atlantic City. “I stressed about the weight because I’m a big guy – 6-foot-1, almost 6-2 – and I walk around at 200 pounds while fighting at 168, but I’m point right now.

“Vla’s a great kid – a tough kid – but he stays too long in front of you. I just don’t see him handling my power,” he continued. “I punch too hard and I’m too big.”

Tickets for “Up For Grabs” are $35.00, $50.00, $75.00 and $125.00 (VIP) and can be purchased by calling CES at 401.724.2253/2254, online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at the Players Club booth at Twin River, or through any TicketMaster location. Doors open 6 p.m. with the first bout scheduled for 7.

The undercard features unbeaten Burlington, Vt., super middleweight Kevin Cobbs (3-0, 1 KO) facing veteran Kentrell Claiborne (2-5, 1 KO) of Cleburne, Tex., in a four-round bout while unbeaten middleweight Thomas Falowo (6-0, 4 KOs) will battle Cedar Hill, Tex., native Samuel Clarkson (4-0, 4 KOs) in a six-round bout.

Medford, Oreg., cruiserweight Mike Wilson (5-0, 3 KOs) will face Atlanta’s Joseph Rabotte (11-20-1) in a four-round bout, and fan-favorite Richard “Bobo The Bull” Starnino (9-7-2, 2 KOs) of Providence will face Harwich, Mass., native Paul Gonsalves (3-2, 3 KOs) in a six-round light heavyweight bout.

“Up For Grabs” also features the return of former reality television star Richard Gingras (11-2, 7 KOs) of “The Contender,” who will battle Terrance Smith Jr. (7-13-2, 4 KOs) of Oklahoma City in the six-round cruiserweight special attraction. Female bantamweight Shelito Vincent (2-0) of Providence will battle newcomer Carmen Cruz of Fort Myers, Fla., in a four-round bout, and unbeaten Providence light heavyweight Alex Amparo (3-0, 2 KOs) will face newcomer Ben Peak of Worcester, Mass., in a four-round bout.

Super lightweight Zack Ramsey, a former New England amateur champion from Springfield, Mass., will make his long-awaited debut against Providence’s Alan Beeman (0-1), while super middleweight Joe Gardner (8-4-1, 1 KO) of Woonsocket, R.I., will face Julio Garcia (4-3, 3 KOs) of Rincon, Puerto Rico in a four-round bout.

“Up For Grabs” will be dedicated to the memory of Jason Pisano, a former wheelchair marathoner from West Warwick, R.I., who passed away earlier this month at the age of 40. Pisano, who completed 52 marathons in his wheelchair, will be inducted in the CES Ring Of Honor on Thursday night.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Up For Grabs.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and must enter through the West entrance.)

WEIGH IN ALERT!

WBA KO Drugs Event In Callao, Peru.

WBA Female Super Featherweight World Title

Kina Malpartida 129.5 vs Sriphrae Nongkipahuyth 128

WBA Fedecentro Lightweight Title

Jonathan Maicelo 135 vs Fernando Angulo 135

WBA Fedebol Super Middleweight Title

Mauricio Reynoso 168 vs Joel Mazeo 168

WBA Fedebol Super Bantamweight Title

Yoandris Salinas 122 vs Imer Velazquez 122

Please Note: This event is a complete sell-out. There are no more tickets available. If you do not have a ticket, please do not come to the stadium. This event can be seen on local Peruvian TV Channel 9.

WEIGH IN ALERT!

Solis 267.5, Airich 225.75.

2004 Olympic gold medalist Odlanier Solis will step into the ring with 267.5 lbs. for his comeback fight after a 14 months layoff due to the knee injury he suffered when challenging WBC world heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko in March 2011. This is about the same weight „La Sombra“ had when he annihilated former world title challengers Monte Barrett (in October 2009 in New York) and Carl Davis Drummond (in March 2010 in Key West).

Reigning and defending IBF intercontinental champion Konstantin Airich weighed in at 225.75 lbs. The fight at the Convention Center in Pharr (Texas) is promoted by Main Events and ARENA Box. Highlights will be shown in the Telefutura „Solo Boxeo“ broadcast tomorrow night.

WEIGH IN ALERT!

Weights From Copenhagen.

WBC Light Heavyweight World Championship (Silver):

Mikkel Kessler: 76,7 kg
Allan Green: 77,9 kg

Middleweight:

Patrick Nielsen: 74 kg
Gaetano Nespro: 74 kg

Cruiserweight:

Mateusz Masternak: 90,1 kg
Hari Miles: 90,7 kg

Ramsey Set For Long-Awaited Debut!

Better Late Than Never.

Even with more than 90 victories in close to 100 bouts, Zack Ramsey lacked the stability outside of the ring to be considered a top prospect on the competitive New England amateur circuit.

The 22-year-old Hartford, Conn., lightweight – a self-described “knucklehead” for several years as a teenager – showed promise, but didn’t always take his craft seriously despite his unparalleled success between the ropes.

“Then I had a little girl,” Ramsey said, “and that changed everything in my life.”

With a family to provide for, Ramsey has put his past behind him and is ready to begin what many believe will be a lucrative career in professional boxing, so much so that he actually left Hartford and relocated to Springfield, Mass., to live with his aunt and get away from all the “bad influences” back home.

“No more games now,” Ramsey said. “It’s not about me anymore; it’s about my daughter. Everything I do now is for her. She’s my No. 1 motivation.”

Under the guidance of promoter Jimmy Burchfield Sr., Ramsey will make his long-awaited professional debut against Alan Beeman (0-1) in a four-round lightweight bout Thursday, May 24th, 2012 on the undercard of “Up For Grabs,” presented by Classic Entertainment & Sports at the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, R.I.

In addition to Burchfield’s promotional guidance, Ramsey also has a management team in his corner with Robert Hersey and Springfield-based attorney Phil Lauro. Hersey discovered Ramsey at Manfredo’s Gym in Pawtucket, R.I., while training one of his other fighters, cruiserweight Jose Torres.

“I watched him spar a few times and he really stood out to me,” Hersey said. “When I asked Peter [Manfredo] about him, he knew exactly who I was talking about.”

At the time, Ramsey was in the process of reviving his amateur career after a three-year hiatus between the ages of 16 and 19. He had just won the 2010 and 2011 Western New England Golden Gloves and 2011 New England Golden Gloves Tournaments in the 141-pound weight class and was ready to go pro after missing out on a chance to attend the Nationals due to a lack of funding.

The amateur scene had run its course; Ramsey, who also won the Rocky Marciano Tournament in Lowell, Mass., in 2010, finished his amateur career with 96 wins, only four losses, and plenty of souvenirs with which to remember it by.

“I’ve got trophies at my dad’s house, my mom’s house, my grandmother’s house – they’re all over the place,” Ramsey said, “but trophies don’t pay the bills.”

Ramsey will begin his career against another former amateur champion in Beeman, the 24-year-old cousin of Providence welterweight Josh Beeman, who captured the 114-pound title at the 2010 N.E. Golden Gloves.

“A lot of people didn’t think I should take this fight,” Beeman said. “They view Zack as a monster. I just view him as two arms and two legs. I’m going to shock New England on the 24th.”

Regardless of what happens Thursday, Hersey and Lauro consider Ramsey a legitimate threat to win a world title with the proper tutelage, which appears to be of no concern now that Ramsey has relocated and is working with a management team that will help guide him in the right direction.

“He’s got tremendous upside,” Hersey said. “He just needs to hone his skills a bit. He’s got a very good jab – very flashy with a unique style. He just needs to work on the fundamentals.

“He can compete right now with most fighters, but a lot of what he got away with as an amateur won’t work in the pros. He’s really slipped under the radar, bouncing from family member to family member and trainer to trainer with no real stability, but he’s got a great resume. There’s a lot of polishing to do on that diamond.”

Though he’s only 22, Ramsey has been boxing for more than half his life. He started at 8 years old with his father, a karate instructor, who gave him the option to choose between the two sports.

“I thought about karate,” Ramsey said, “but I didn’t want to do all that stretching, so I stuck with boxing.”

Two years later, Ramsey – only 85 pounds soaking wet – fought his first amateur bout and suffered a brutal loss.

“I got beat up pretty bad,” he recalled. “My dad even asked if I still wanted to do this. I ended up fighting that same kid three more times and won all three bouts.

“Then I started getting real good.”

Ramsey’s amateur career soared as he reached his teen years, but trouble soon followed. At 16, he lost interest in the sport and grew more enticed with life outside of the ring until the birth of his daughter, Anylah, brought him back to reality.

“I was acting like a clown,” Ramsey said. “I thought I knew everything and I wanted to do everything my way. Thankfully, I learned from my mistakes.

“I’m grateful to have someone who still wants to be in my corner. Those people don’t have to help me out, but they do. My aunt’s been holding me down for quite a while now. I’m away from all those negative influences where I can just concentrate on my craft.

“The boxing people know I’ve been going hard for a while now,” he continued. “This might be a surprise to the fans, but the boxing people know what time it is.”

The eight-round main event of “Up For Grabs” features Vladine Biosse (12-1-1, 6 KOs), dubbed “Mr. Providence” due to his strong following in Rhode Island’s capital city, defending his New England Super Middleweight Title against Providence’s Joey “K.O. Kid” Spina (26-2-2, 18 KOs). Unbeaten Burlington, Vt., super middleweight Kevin Cobbs (3-0, 1 KO) will face veteran Kentrell Claiborne (2-5, 1 KO) of Cleburne, Tex., in a four-round bout while unbeaten middleweight Thomas Falowo (6-0, 4 KOs) faces Cedar Hill, Tex., native Samuel Clarkson (4-0, 4 KOs) in a six-round bout.

Medford, Oreg., cruiserweight Mike Wilson (5-0, 3 KOs) will face Atlanta’s Joseph Rabotte (11-20-1) in a four-round bout, while fan-favorite Richard “Bobo The Bull” Starnino (9-7-2, 2 KOs) of Providence will now face Harwich, Mass., native Paul Gonsalves (3-2, 3 KOs) in a six-round light heavyweight bout.

“Up For Grabs” also features the return of former reality television star Richard Gingras (11-2, 7 KOs) of “The Contender,” who, after signing a promotional agreement with Classic Entertainment & Sports, will battle Terrance Smith Jr. (7-13-2, 4 KOs) of Oklahoma City in the six-round cruiserweight special attraction. Female bantamweight Shelito Vincent (2-0) of Providence will battle newcomer Carmen Cruz of Fort Myers, Fla., in a four-round bout.

Tickets for “Up For Grabs” are $35.00, $50.00, $75.00 and $125.00 (VIP) and can be purchased by calling CES at 401.724.2253/2254, online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at the Players Club booth at Twin River, or through any TicketMaster location. Doors open 6 p.m. with the first bout scheduled for 7.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Up For Grabs.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and must enter through the West entrance.)

Israel "Cachito" Perez!

Inks Deals With Maravilla Box And Sampson Boxing.

Argentinean lightweight contender Israel "Cachito" Perez (23-2-1, 13 KOs) has signed a managerial agreement with middleweight champion Sergio Martinez's Maravilla Box and a long-term promotional agreement with promoter Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing.

33-year-old Perez, from Buenos Aires, Argentina, is a former WBA Fedelatin Super Featherweight Champion, and as an amateur, represented Argentina at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games. Perez is currently undefeated in 15 fights.

Perez, as a new member of the Maravilla Box stable, which in addition to Sergio Martinez also includes world-ranked fighters such as Javier Fortuna, Alexander Brand, Hector Saldivia and uncrowned light heavyweight champion Gabriel Campillo, will now be trained by super trainer Pablo Sarmiento.

"Israel has had long periods of inactivity and we're going to fix that," said Lewkowicz. "We've got him at the right weight now where he is very strong and ready to make his mark in the lightweight division. The difference in his technique and ability will be noticeable right away now that he's working with Pablo as well."

Melson V Gallegos!

June 14th.

Captain Boyd “Rainmaker” Melson will make his return to the ring Thursday, June 14 when he battles rugged veteran Enrique Gallegos in a six round junior middleweight bout at New York City’s Roseland Ballroom.

On March 7, Melson battled unbeaten Delen Parsley in a bout that renowned broadcaster Steve Farhood called one of the best in Broadway Boxing history. In the eight-round slugfest with Parsley, Melson, 8-1 (4 KO’s), was credited with two hard knockdowns but ultimately dropped a hotly-contested decision.

With a deceptive professional ledger of 6-5 with 1 knockout, Gallegos battled 2004 Olympian Donnie Orr, K.J. Noons, Sammy Gonzalez and contender Derek Ennis. The Medford, OR native, who fought most of his bouts in his opponents’ hometowns, holds victories over Miguel Pasillas (7-2) and Joe Mills (3-1).

“I’m expecting another tough fight and I plan to fight with my heart's passion for both me and my supporters,” said Melson, who continues to donate his entire purse Justadollarplease.org in association with a Clinical Trial taking place in the United States to help cure Spinal Cord Injuries. “I was hoping for my second consecutive 8 round bout, but there was not enough room on this card. Enrique’s been in with quality fighters and he keeps coming. I know he’s not coming to New York to lie down. He has a tremendous chin and the ability to recover extremely quickly. He is going to make me fight hard for each of the 6 rounds.”

The card is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and tickets are available by going to Teamfighttowalk.com. All tickets purchased on Teamfighttowalk.com can be picked up at the Roseland Ballroom's will call window on fight night under the credit card holder's name.

In association with Justadollarplease.org, Melson created Team Fight to Walk, whose mission is to raise awareness within the boxing community as well as the entire nation about the importance of bringing Clinical Trials to the United States to help cure Spinal Cord Injuries. Team Fight to Walk is comprised of Melson, former two-time cruiserweight champion Steve “USS” Cunningham, title contender DeAndre “The Bull” Latimore, Edgar “El Chamaco” Santana, Hector “Machito” Camacho Jr., 2008 US Olympians Demetrius “Boo” Andrade and Shawn Estrada along with prospects Sid “The Messenger” El Harrak, Denis “Da Momma’s Boy” Douglin, Will “Power” Rosinsky, Floriano “Italiano” Pagliara, Danny “Little Mac” McDermott, Vinny “The Lion” O’Brien, Ahmed “Prince of Egypt” Samir and Delen “Sniper” Parsley.

For more information or to make a donation, go to teamfighttowalk.com or Justadollarplease.org. All specific questions about the nature of the Clinical Trial to cure Spinal Cord Injury can be sent to boydmelson@yahoo.com.

Solis V Airich!

Odlanier Solis Ready To Shine In Comeback.

This Saturday (May 19th) Cuban heavyweight sensation Odlanier Solis (17-1) will return to the ring after a 14 months layoff due to the bad knee injury he suffered when challenging WBC world champion Vitali Klitschko in Cologne (Germany) in March 2011. Ain Pharr (Texas) „La Sombra“ challenges IBF intercontinental champion Konstantin Airich (23-5-2).

„This is a very tough fight for a comeback after such a long layoff“, says promoter Ahmet Oner. „Airich is a true powerhouse with great stamina and two of the hardest fists out there. Solis has to be very careful and he cannot go into the fight at anything less than 100 percent.“

IBF #12 and WBO #11 rated Airich, a 33-year old German who was born in Kazakhstan, is coming off two impressive KO-wins over Varol Vekiloglu (19-4-1) and Ondrej Pala (30-3) which earned him the IBF i/c and the WBO European championship.

„I know Konstantin from my times in Germany“, states Solis. „We have done sparring a couple of times. He is a tough guy and he is always coming to fight and win. But I don’t care who I step in the ring with. I want to prove that I am the best boxer in the world so I will beat whoever crosses my way.“

One of the most important questions will be how Solis handled the long break and how his right knee has recovered from the injury and the following three surgeries.

„To be honest“, says trainer Pedro Luis Diaz Benitez who most recently led Miguel Cotto to his excellent performance against Floyd Mayweather jr. „His knee is better than ever before. I would even say that his right knee is better than the left one now. We will have no problems. We worked very hard for this comeback. Solis has been in training camp for almost three months. He is in great shape because we know that we have to be in shape against a strong opponent like Airich.“

Since Solis, a multiple time world amateur champion and 2004 Olympic gold medalist, turned pro in 2007 the Cuban defector has been criticized for carrying too much weight.

„His weight is not an issue“, adds the coach. „People should judge Solis from his performance in the ring. See how fast he is, see how he moves in the ring. Who cares about the scale and five pounds more or less as long as the fighter knows how to use his body to wear down his opponents?“

The „Fight Night in Pharr“ which is promoted by Main Events, Cavazos Boxing Promotions and ARENA Sports-Promotion also features the return of unbeaten lightweight prospect Jerry Belmontes (15-0) taking on Dominican Remesis Gil (7-3-5). The bouts will be broadcasted on TeleFutura’s „Solo Boxeo Tecate“.

WEIGH IN ALERT!

WEIGH-IN RESULTS FROM ALBANY.

Raymond Serrano 139lb
Karim Mayfield 139lb

Jason Escalera 160lb
Nick Brinson 160lb

Kevin Rooney Jr. 160lb
Anthony Jones 161lb

Lekan Byfield 164lb
Tony Brinson 164lb

David Telesco 178lb
Vincent Miranda 180lb

Bryan Abrahm 142lb
Kenny Abril 146lb

Tickets, priced at $30, $40, $50 and $75, are available through Ticketmaster, (www.Ticketmaster.com, 800-745-3000) or at the Times Union Center Box Office, (www.timesunioncenter-albany.com), and at select local Wal-Mart Music Centers. Tickets are also available by calling Star Boxing at 718-823-2000 or on their website www.starboxing.com.

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Shumenov V Ornelas!

WORLD CHAMPION BEIBUT SHUMENOV DEVELOPING INTERNATIONAL STAR APPEAL.

Unable to secure a unification title fight against the other 175-pound world champions, World Boxing Association (WBA) Light Heavyweight World Champion Beibut Shumenov returns on June 2 to make his fourth title defense against former super middleweight world title challenger Enrique Ornelas (33-7, 21 KO's) at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nev. in a fight that will be televised live on FOX Sports Net and FIX Deportes and will be televised on a delayed basis on FUEL TV.

Shumenov vs. Ornelas is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and KZ Event Productions and sponsored by Corona and DeWalt Tools. The FOX Sports Net and FOX Deportes bilingual simulcast will air live at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT. FUEL TV will rebroadcast the fight on Sunday, July 1, at 12:00 p.m. ET/9:00 a.m. PT.

Tickets, priced at $100, $60, $30, $25, along with a limited number of VIP suite seats priced at $125, may be purchased at the Hard Rock Hotel Box Office, all Ticketmaster locations, online at www.ticketmaster.com or by phone at (800) 745-3000.

"I'm looking forward to defending my world title belt, especially on a nationally televised show once again," Shumenov said from his Las Vegas home."

A unique boxing world champion, at least in terms of his background, Shumenov has growing international appeal. The chiseled 2008 Kazakhstan Olympian is a lawyer and boxing promoter who, along with his brother Chingis Shumenov, owns and operates KZ Event Productions out of Las Vegas.

Two-and-a-half years ago, also at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Shumenov captured the WBA World Title in just his 10th professional bout with a 12-round unanimous decision victory over former World Champion Gabriel Campillo. The win established a new record for a fighter winning a major light heavyweight world championship in the fewest professional fights.

Shumenov was scheduled for a unification fight on Jan. 8, 2011 against World Boxing Organization (WBO) World Champion Juergen Braehmer in Shymkent, Kazakhstan, but Braehner pulled out of the fight just a few days prior to the scheduled event. To avoid cancelling the show in the capital city of his native country, Shumenov fought former World Champion William Joppy, who was slated to face another fighter on the same card.

Since capturing his WBA World title belt, Shumenov has successfully defended against undefeated, mandatory challenger Vyacheslav Uzelkov (DEC 12), Joppy (KO 6) and most recently Danny Santiago (TKO 9) this past July. The 28-year-old Shumenov has defeated four world champions - Campillo, Byron Mitchell, Joppy and Montell Griffin - as well as former world title challengers Epifanio Mendoza, Uzelkov and Santiago in only 13 professional bouts.

"My goal has always been and remains to fight the best and unify the world light heavyweight title." Shumenov noted. "To do that I need to keep practicing and improving with each and every fight. Someday, I hope one of the other world champions will put his belt on the line against mine. Until then, though, I am only focused on defending my world title belt against the toughest possible challengers like Ornelas."

Some present and former world champions have made overtures about fighting Shumenov, but they have demanded that the fight be held in their respective hometowns. To his credit, Shumenov hasn't made a Kazakhstan showdown a mandatory demand, despite attracting more than 30,000 fans there for a fight against Griffin in 2008.

"All fighters dream of fighting in the boxing capital of the world, Las Vegas," Shumenov remarked. "I'd love to fight again in Kazakhstan and intend to do that again someday, but Las Vegas is a perfect, neutral site."

Hall of Fame promoter Don Chargin, who serves as Shumenov's advisor, has been frustrated by biased media reports about major fights for Shumenov. "I had discussions with representatives for a title fight with (Jean) Pascal and unification with (Nathan) Cleverly," Chargin explained. "They wanted to fight in Canada and England, but we preferred Las Vegas or Kazakhstan. Beibut's the world champion and I didn't believe those options to fight in Canada or England were in his best interest. Discussions never got any further because neither of them were really serious about fighting us. Meanwhile, time had passed. Beibut's layoff was no fault of his own; he wanted to fight all along and patiently waited. Making either of those fights, though, was out of his control. If things go right June 2, we'll try again to make a unification fight."

Shumenov understands that, first, he has to get past a tough, hungry challenger in Guanajuato, Mexico's Ornelas, who has moved up to the light heavyweight division after an impressive run at 168 pounds, where he owned the NABF title and proved to be a strong challenger for Robert Stieglitz' WBO title in 2010.

Tahdooahnippah Wants Taylor!

I’m Coming For You Jermain.

WBC Continental Americas Middleweight champion George “Comanche Boy” Tahdooahnippah is becoming increasingly impatient for a date with one of the world’s top 160 pound fighters.

The hard-hitting Tahdooahnippah, a huge draw in his native Oklahoma, has an outstanding professional record of 30-0-1 with 22 wins by knockout. All but two of his fights took place in the Sooner State, which kept him under the radar. Even though he’s yet to taste defeat and owns impressive knockouts against seasoned pros such as world title challenger Jonathan Corn, Jimmy Holmes and Tyrel Brown, the Lawton resident is yet to receive a career-defining opportunity.

“It’s time for me to face some big name fighters and show the world who I am,” said Tahdooahnippah, a member of the Comanche Nation. “When I fought Jimmy Holmes for the WBC belt, I had a torn bicep and still stopped him in the opening round. Whoever has been in my way thus far, I’ve got them out of there and I don’t plan on changing that, regardless of who is standing across the ring!”

Atop his wish list is former undisputed middleweight champion Jermain “Bad Intentions” Taylor. Once a fixture on the pound-for-pound list, Taylor, 30-4-1 (18 KO’s), is 2-0 since returning from a two-year layoff. In his most recent bout, the Little Rock, AR native survived a scary ninth round knockdown against Caleb Truax en-route to claiming a unanimous decision victory.

Tahdooahnippah, whose opposition is comparable to Truax’, called his fight with Taylor a major eye-opener.

“I’ve been watching Caleb Truax his whole career and we were promoted similarly. The only difference is he got the opportunity that I’ve been looking for. Jermain Taylor also isn’t the same fighter he once was and recent upset wins by fellow Oklahomans Carson Jones and Grady Brewer truly inspired me.”

“Caleb wasn’t able to close the show and I know that I have more power than him. I’m a different fighter than Caleb. I’m hungrier and have a more fan-friendly style. If he can go ten rounds with Jermain and put him on his back and I know that I can get Jermain out of there!”

Tahdooahnippah’s manager Bobby Dobbs also feels the fighter he helped build from the ground up is ready to face a top-notch foe.

“George is 30-0 and had a few big fights fall through,” said Dobbs. Fernando Guerrero backed out on us a few years ago and it’s been frustrating to get him a fight. We’ve been ready to take the next step and Jermain Taylor is the guy we want. He’s on the comeback trail and is looking for another opportunity. Comanche Boy has no problem taking him out of the equation!”

Fans can interact with George by going to facebook.com/comancheboygeorge.tahdooahnippah or HDboxing.net.

WEIGH IN ALERT!

'Bombs Away On Long Island.

MAIN EVENT - CRUISERWEIGHTS (6)

Joe "The Irish Bomber" Smith (9-1, 9 KOs), Shirley, NY 197 LBS.
James Henson (5-8, 2 KOs), Akron, OH

CO-FEATURE -- LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)

Michael "Lefty" Brooks (6-0, 1 KO), Oceanside, NY 138 LBS.
Calvin "The Gladiator" Pritchard (0-5-2), Toledo, OH

WELTERWEIGHTS (4)

Anthony Karpis (pro debut), Hicksville, NY 143 ½ LBS.
Cody Osbourne (0-1), Muskegon, MI 140 LBS.

CRUISERWEIGHTS (4)

Adam Willett (2-1-1), Bellport, NY 197 LBS.
Justin Warren (pro debut), Brooklyn, NY 194 LBS.

LIGHT MIDDLEWEIGHTS (4)

Skender Halili (4-0, 4 KOs), Bronx, NY 151 ¾ LBS.
Brian Meadows (0-2-2), Owensboro, KY 151 ¾ LBS.

WELTERWEIGHTS (4)

Rich "Kid Brazil" Neves (3-0-1, 2 KOs), New Hyde Park, NY 152 LBS.
Jose Angel Ortiz (4-7-1, 1 KO), Springfield, MA 149 LBS.

FEATHERWEIGHTS (4)

Trevis Hall (1-1), Georgetown, Guyana 124 LBS.
Nieem Harris (pro debut), Brooklyn, NY 126 LBS.

Bob Duffy's Ring Promotions, in association with Winner Take All Productions

TICKETS: $150.00 (VIP pre-party and ringside), $75.00 (ringside) an $40.00 (general admission) and available to purchase at the Plattdeutsch Park Restaurant (1132 Hempstead Turnpike in Franklin Square

DOORS OPEN: VIP pre-party at 6:00 PM/ET, 7:00 PM/ET for the general public.

FIRST BOUT: 7:30 PM/ET.

SERGIO MARTINEZ!

STAR-POWER SHINING BRIGHTER THAN EVER IN HOME COUNTRY.

It has been exactly two months since Middleweight kingpin Sergio "Maravilla" Martinez defended his crown against Matthew Macklin on St. Patrick's Day, scoring a thrilling 11th-round TKO over the Irishman before a raucous sold-out crowd at the Theater at Madison Square Garden in easily one of the most entertaining fights shown live on HBO in 2012. Martinez now awaits the upcoming WBC Middleweight Championship bout between Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and Andy Lee, which will take place on June 16, in Laredo, TX, to see who he will face next. While he waits, Martinez has kept himself extremely busy, especially in his native country of Argentina, where his popularity continues to soar to super stardom levels. Most recently, Martinez was asked to participate in the upcoming season of Bailando por un Sueño, which is Argentina's version of "Dancing with the Stars" and considered the most popular television program in the entire country. Last year, Mike Tyson was one of the contestants on the show.

When Martinez was recently interviewed by renowned television host Alejandro Fantino on "Animales Sueltos," the show received a monster 6.7 rating. Martinez discussed a number of topics during the roughly 40-minute long interview

Next up for the charismatic Martinez was an appearance on the stand-up comedy show, Duro de Domar, hosted by Daniel Tognetti. (Click here to view Sergio's stand-up performance). Martinez showed a side of himself with which not many outside of his inner circle are familiar. From the reaction of performance though, you can be assured that it will not be the last time anyone has seen "Maravilla" the comedian.

Martinez was also recently named an honorary member of Arengtina's premier soccer club River Plate. The stadium in which River Plate plays is commonly referred to as El Monumental and is considered to be the national stadium of Argentina. Political officials from Argentina have expressed serious interest in staging one of Martinez' future fights in the stadium.

"Its very humbling to be appreciated by my fellow countrymen and to be recognized after so many hard years of hard work and dedicating myself to the sport of boxing," said Martinez. "Hopefully with my new found fame I can continue to bring awareness to those in need and the less fortunate."

"Five years ago I knew that I had found something very special," said Sampson Lewkowicz, advisor of Martinez. "I knew that I had an exciting new fighter for HBO and a fighter that could make sound waves throughout the boxing industry. Sergio has become the superstar that I knew he would, and the magnitude of the response during his welcome home tour proves that. Sergio is not only hands down the most popular fighter, but one of the most well-known and recognizable sport figures in the entire country of Argentina."

"With his recent performances in and out of the ring, Sergio is quickly becoming a phenomenon in Argentina," said promoter Lou DiBella. "As more and more people get to know him, his popularity will continue to spread not just in his home country of Argentina and his adopted home of the U.S. but begin reaching worldwide magnitude."

Adonis 'Superman' Stevenson!

Ready To Conquer Super Middleweight Division.

Based on his last five fights, sensational super middleweight Adonis Stevenson (18-1, 15 KOs) is more than living-up to his nickname, "Superman."

Stevenson and his promoter, Yvon Michel, as well as his Hall of Fame manager/trainer, Emanuel Steward, believe he's ready to fight any of the 168-pound world champions or top contenders.

Stevenson's last five fight fights been against opponents who had had a combined professional record of 107-8 prior to stepping in the ring to fight "Superman" - 28-1 Noe Gonzalez (TKO2), 27-1 Jesus Gonzales, 16-3 Aaron Pryor, Jr. (TKO9), 11-1 Shujaa El-Amin (TKO1) and Derek Edwards (KO3). All but Gonzales (only once) had never been knocked out before fighting "Superman."

Stevenson's display case has collapsed from the added weight of all his stored title belts: (reigning) WBC Silver, IBF Inter-Continental, NABA, NABO, plus WBC International, WBC Continental Americas, and Canadian straps Adonis formerly held.

All he's missing now is a world title belt, something he hopes to acquire this year, given a legitimate shot to challenge. "Superman" is qualified to fight any of the world super middleweight champions as a world-rated contender in each of the four major governing bodies: #2 IBF, #3 WBC, #7 WBA & WBO.

The dream match for the Haitian-born Stevenson, who lives in the Montreal of Longueuill, is, of course, a showdown in Montreal with IBF champion Lucian Bute. But he's making a title defense May 26 against Carl Froch. WBA Super and WBC champion Andre Ward is practically locked into a fight with WBC light heavyweight title-holder Chad Dawson, likely in September.

"My goal is to become world champion," Stevenson said. "I don't care who I fight for the world title - (Lucian) Bute, (Andre) Ward or any world champion. I want to prove that I'm the best super middleweight in the world. I have the best trainer in the world, Manny Steward, and he's trained me to be much more than just a big puncher. I've improved a lot since I've been with him and I'm using my speed and movement to become more of a complete fighter. If none of the world champions are willing to fight me, I'll continue improving, fighting top 10 opponents, hopefully in a title eliminator, until I become a mandatory challenger."

WBO and WBA (regular) champions Robert Stieglitz and Akardy Balzsay, respectively, seem to only fight hand-picked opponents and are reluctant to fight out their comfort zones in Germany.

"Adonis Stevenson has proven that he's one of the best super middleweights in the world," Michel added. "He's better than ever since he teamed up with Manny. We know that he's ready for anybody and is the most deserving contender. If the WBC is seeking a replace for injured No. 1 rated Anthony Dirrell, 'Superman' is ready to fight in a title eliminator against anybody. It's only matter of time before 'Superman' adds a world title to his belt collection."

For more information about Stevenson or any of the GYM fighters and upcoming shows, go online to www.groupeyvonmichel.ca.

GCP Signs Tony 'Lightning' Luis!

GCP Signs 'Lightning' Luis To Promotional Agreement.

Greg Cohen of Greg Cohen Promotions is proud to announce the signing of one of Canada's top rated prospects, Tony "Lightning" Luis (14-0, 6 KOs) to a promotional agreement.

24-year-old Luis is a native of Cornwall, Ontario, who first caught the eye of many boxing observers with an impressive TKO 5 over Adrian Valdez on ESPN Friday Night Fights in June of 2010.

Gifted with blazing hand speed and a vicious left hook to the body, Luis has already won the WBC Continental Americas Junior Welterweight Championship via KO1 over former NABA Champion Alejandro Barrera in October 2011 and was named a Goodwill Ambassador by the WBC.

As an amateur, Luis was a seven-time Ontario Champion, a 2006 Eastern NY Golden Gloves Champion, won three National silver medals and defeated 10 Canadian National Champions.

During the day, he works as a counselor on an Indian reserve near his Cornwall, Ontario home. He is trained by his father Jorge.

"Tony Luis makes an excellent addition to our stable and we're very proud to be working with him," said Greg Cohen. "He has made the jump from excellent amateur to outstanding professional and we predict big things will happen in his future."

Serrano V Mayfield!

HEATED ALBANY PRESS CONFERENCE.

Undefeated junior welterweights Ray "Tito" Serrano and Karim "Hard Hitta" Mayfield wasted no time at today's press conference in Albany, New York getting in each other's face just two days ahead of their "ESPN Friday Night Fights" showdown at the Times Union Center set for this Friday, May 18, 2012.

Ranked # 9 by the WBA with an undefeated record of 18-0-0 with eight stoppages, Philadelphia's Serrano challenges San Francisco's Mayfield, 15-0-1 (9KO's), in a ten round fight for Mayfield's NABO Title.

In the eight round co-main event, middleweight prospects will clash as heavy-handed knockout artist Jason Escalera of Union City, New Jersey battles Geneva, New York's Nick Brinson.

Also featured is an eight round light heavyweight bout between Albany, New York based contender Vincent Miranda and former world title challenger David Telesco of Portchester, New York.

The undercard of "ESPN FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS" includes the Capital Region's favorite son Kevin "KID" Rooney Jr., along with Schenectady junior welterweight Bryan Abraham.

Tickets, priced at $30, $40, $50 and $75, are available through Ticketmaster, (www.Ticketmaster.com, 800-745-3000) or at the Times Union Center Box Office, (www.timesunioncenter-albany.com), and at select local Wal-Mart Music Centers. Tickets are also available by calling Star Boxing at 718-823-2000 or on their website www.starboxing.com.

Follow us at www.facebook/starboxing. www.twitter/starboxing

Price V Sexton!

Live Saturday On FIGHT NOW.

American boxing fans will have the opportunity to watch red-hot British heavyweight prospect David Price in action this Saturday afternoon (May 19) on FIGHT NOW TV TM - America's only 24-hour combat sports and entertainment channel - live starting at 5:45 PM / ET from Liverpool, United Kingdom.

Price 12-0, 10 KOs), a 2008 Olympic bronze medal winner, defends his British Boxing Board of Control ("BBB of C") British heavyweight crown against veteran Sam Sexton (15-2, 6 KOs) in the 12-round main event that's also for the vacant Commonwealth title.

The undefeated Price is an imposing figure in the ring, standing 6' 8" and weighing 245 pounds. He is coming off of an impressive BBB of C British heavyweight title-winning performance last January against veteran John McDermott (26-7), in which Price floored his outclassed opponent three times in the opening round. As a prelude for Saturday afternoon's heavyweight championship match between Price and Sexton, FIGHT NOW TV will replay Price's first-round knockout of McDermott on Friday night (May 18) at 10 PM / ET.

The 28-year-old Price is the No. 8 rated heavyweight in Europe, as well as No. 22 by the World Boxing Council ("WBC"). Sexton (15-2, 6 KOs), who is ranked No. 11 in Europe, is best known for winning the second PrizeFighter Tournament in 2008. He is the former Commonwealth (British Empire) Heavyweight Champion having twice defeated Irish heavyweight Martin Rogan.

"Frank Maloney has been promoting great, entertaining shows in the United Kingdom for many years," noted FIGHT NOW TV Co-Founder & General Manager Mike Garrow. "We're fortunate to be partnering with him for this show. This is a continuation of FIGHT NOW TV delivering world-class fights to American fans. Price is a physical monster who people are already predicting will become world champion some day. He has Olympian pedigree and we're delighted to be giving American fans an opportunity to watch him fight live against a trough, experienced opponent in Sexton."

The other FIGHT NOW TV aired bout is the 12-round co-feature between Paul "Eddy" Edwards (9-1, 3 KOs) and Kevin "Satch" Satchell (7-0) for the vacant Commonwealth flyweight championship.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Alvarez V Hawk!

June 8TH In Montreal.

Undefeated North American Boxing Organization ("NABO") Light Heavyweight Champion Eleider "Storm" Alvarez (8-0, 5 KOs) makes his first title defense on Friday, June 8 against Native American challenger Shawn "The Sioux Warrior" Hawk (23-1, 19 KOs), headlining the fifth and final edition of this year's popular GYM Fast & Furious Boxing Series, at the famed Bell Centre in Montreal.

Alvarez, a 28-year-old Colombian native who lives in Montreal, is on the fast track to stardom in the 175-pound division. The 2008 Colombian Olympian captured the NABO title belt last December, stopping Emiliano Cayetano (21-3) in the opening round. Alvarez, who is rated No. 15 by the World Boxing Organization ("WBO"), won all eight rounds in his most recent fight against Rayco Saunders (22-15-2) this past April.

"On June 8," Alvarez said about his 10-round main event, "it will be my first fight as the main event of the GYM series and I'm very proud. In the ring, I intend to justify the confidence they have placed in me, and put on a good show for the Quebec public. Shawn Hawk is a fiery young boxer who has determined to win, but I am sure that I have what it takes to keep my belt in my adopted country."

The 27-year-old Hawk, fighting out of Atlantic City (NJ), is riding a five-fight win streak, his last four coming since he dropped down in weight to compete in the light heavyweight division. Hawk's victims at 175 pounds have included Henry Buchanan (20-2), Otis Griffin (23-8-2) and Rubin Williams (29-10-1) for the Sovereign Nations title.

ExcitingMontreal middleweight David Lemieux (25-2, 24 KOs) is a caged lion after being sidelined with a right hand injury he sufferedlast December in his fight against Joachim Alcine (33-2-1, 19 KOs). The 23-year-old Lemieux, ranked No. 23 by the World Boxing Council ("WBC"), takes on tough Mexican-American Jaudiel "Negro" Zepeda (12-5-1, 9 KOs), who gave Renan St-Juste (23-3-1, 15 KOs) all he could handle in his last fight.

"With this fight," Lemieux predicted, "I restart my career. I know I have disappointed many of my supporters but I recently learned a lot and have matured. I cannot wait to reconnect with the action. Without looking too far ahead, of course, I dream of fighting rematches against (Marco Antonio) Rubio and Alcine in the near future."

Fighting on a stacked undercard are a trio of talented, unbeaten heavyweights -- Oscar "Kaboom" Rivas (10-0, 6 KOs), Eric Barrack (7-0, 6 KOs) and Didier Bence (4-0, 2 KOs). Rivas's opponent will be announced shortly.

Barrack was spectacular on April 20 in his victory by second-round knockout of rugged Sandy Pembroke, fighting out of British Columbia. This time around Barrack faces another former Canadian Olympic boxing champion, Sheldon Hinton (11-8-1, 4 KO), of Alberta, in a six-round bout. Barrack intends to make a powerful statement as one of the best, young heavyweight Canadian boxers with another spectacular knockout.

Bence, who has been out of the ring since last December due to a facial injury, is rapidly developing. His battle-tested opponent, Stéphane "Brutus" Tessier (3-28-1, 1KO), of Longueuil, promises to push young Bence in their six-round match.

Also scheduled to fight on the undercard is exciting middleweight Ahmad Cheikho (6-4-2, 5K), also fighting out of Montreal, who is a protégé of Camille Estephan (Eye of the Tiger Management). One additional fight will soon be announced.

The GYM Fast and Furious Boxing Series is an innovative and unique event at the Bell Centre, featuring seats and close to the action. These events are also available to watch on PPV in Canada via Canal Indigo, Bell TV and Shaw TV.

TICKETS ON SALE: Please note that tickets will be available at the Bell Centre box office, evenko.ca or at GYM (383.0666), starting at $60.00.

Hitz Boxing!

Adds Three More Fights To Mammoth Horseshoe Event.

Promoter Bobby Hitz and Hitz Boxing have added three more fights to the lineup for their Friday, May 25 "Fight Night at the Horseshoe" event at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana.

In addition to the 10-round WBA Fedelatin Heavyweight Championship main event between "Fast" Fres Oquendo (33-7, 21 KOs) and Joey "Minnesota Ice" Abell (28-5, 27 KOs), no less than 9 big fights are now scheduled, including an intriguing eight-round all-Chicago middleweight match-up between Donatas Bondorovas (14-3-1, 3 KOs) and Ramon Valenzuela (7-0, 1 KO).

Also added to the schedule are undefeated middleweight Meegal Harper (5-0, 5 KOs) of Chicago Heights taking on Traverse City, Michigan's more experienced Chris Grays in a four-rounder and pro-debuting welterweight Nick Ramirez of Rockford, Illinois, facing off against Lorenzo Wilson (1-1-1) of Indianapolis in a four-round fight.

The opponent for light welterweight Genaro Mendez's (4-1-1, 3 KOS) six-round fight will be David Laque of Bloomington, Minnesota.

The full lineup:

Genaro Mendez (Chicago) vs. David Laque (Bloomington, MN)
David "Diesel" Latoria (Chicago) vs. Stanley Allen (Gary, IN)
Mike "Hollywood" Jimenez (Chicago) vs. Adrian Hermann (Everett, WA)
David Martin III (Hobart, IN) vs. Tim Washington (Toledo, OH)
Phillip Triantafillo (Chesterton, IN) vs. Emerson Chasing Bear (Rapid City, SD)
Terry Martin (Chicago) vs. Donta Woods (Atlanta, GA)
Donatas Bondorovas (Chicago) vs.Ramon Valenzuela (Chicago)
Meegal Harper (Chicago Heights, IL) vs. Chris Grays (Traverse City, MI)
pro-debut Nick Ramirez (Rockford) vs. Lorenzo Wilson (Indianapolis, IN)
"Fast" Fres Oquendo (Chicago) vs. Joey Abell (Coon Rapids, MN)Fedelatin Heavyweight Title

The high-class atmosphere and luxurious surroundings the Horseshoe has to offer make their boxing shows a Las Vegas-style night of boxing that Chicago-area fans don't have to get on a plane to enjoy.

The Horseshoe Casino has an intimate, comfortable venue with luxurious seats, a spectacular gaming area, free parking, exquisite food and all the amenities -- and is just 20 minutes from Downtown Chicago.

Tickets for "Fight Night at the Horseshoe" are on sale now, starting at a fan appreciation price of $10, and are available atthe "Venue" box office, ticketmaster.com and all Ticketmaster outlets.

Green Slams Kessler!

Mikkel Will Not Be Worth A Nickel.

Allan Green (31-1, 21 KOs) continued his war of words with Mikkel Kessler (44-2, 33 KOs) today at the final press conference in Copenhagen. Three days ahead of their WBC Light Heavyweight World Championship (Silver) clash at Denmark´s famous PARKEN Stadium, Green claimed that the Viking Warrior was a long way past his prime.

?He used to be a joy to watch, a great fighter, but that was before he fought Calzaghe,? the 32-year-old American stated. ?He has not been the same fighter since. I don´t know if it is mental or physical wear, but he´s just not been on the same level any more. Mikkel will not be worth a nickel when he will be in the ring with me. I will break his a** into two halves. I want him to be at his best on Saturday night, the best he can possibly be, and for his sake it better be enough!?

The Viking Warrior said he will be happy to prove that he can still deliver at the highest level ? a level Green has never fought at. ?Green just talks a lot,? Kessler said. ?This is nothing unusual before a fight. He seems to be confident, which is good for him. He will need all his confidence on Saturday night. I´m in fantastic shape, I am ready to put on a great show. I know I can hurt Green and once I have hurt him, I will go for the KO. But I am not making any predictions about the outcome. I just know that I am going to win.?

Promoter Kalle Sauerland is looking forward to a great night at PARKEN, with Michael Buffer calling both fighters into the ring and the Champions League Final being shown on four jumbotron TV screens. ?It´s going to be great event for sports fans,? Sauerland said. ?A top undercard, the Champions League Final and then Kessler versus Green. It can hardly get any better. Kessler-Green is a high-risk fight. At light heavyweight, Green can do a lot of damage, he has a lot of power, but so has Mikkel, who is the better boxer. This is going to be very exciting. I am sure Mikkel will win.?

And Jimmy Montoya, Kessler´s coach, added: ?Green, I respect you as a fighter, you are a good fighter, but a much better talker. Mikkel will beat you on Saturday night.?

Anthony Wilson, Green´s coach, believes Kessler is already confused: ?In the past weeks, Kessler first said he was the better boxer and Green the bigger puncher who will come at him to slug it out. Then Kessler changed his mind and said he himself had a bigger punch than Green. Kessler has got no clue what he is talking about. And he has got no clue what Allan Green will bring to the table come Saturday night.?

In the co-featured main event, Patrick Nielsen (14-0, 8 KOs) will take on Gaetano Nespro (19-8-1, 3 KOs). Polish KO machine Mateusz ?The Master? Masternak (26-0, 20 KOs) comes face-to-face with Hari Miles. Torben Keller faces Yuri Pompilio, Erik Skoglund meets Pablo Sosa and Simeen Smaadal clashes with Srdjan Mihailovic.

Ashley Theophane!

HITMAN LOVES HIS TREASURE.

RICKY HATTON has heaped praise on Hatton Promotions world class light-welterweight Ashley ?The Treasure? Theophane.

The Londoner will now defend his British light-welterweight title against Darren Hamilton at Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool on Saturday (19th May) hoping to win a Lonsdale belt for keeps.

Theophane, 31, was due to face Steve Williams but he pulled out early on Monday because of illness ? leaving Ashley in the lurch for the second successive fight.

He encountered a similar problem in December when Nigel Wright was forced out of their contest forcing Theophane to box Ben Murphy who he stopped in 11 rounds.

Hatton Promotions CEO Ricky Hatton said: ?Ashley is an example to all boxers, and just wants to train and fight all comers.

?As soon as Williams pulled out he never once thought about not fighting because the British title and owning a Lonsdale belt means so much to him. ?I have nothing but admiration for him.?

Hatton hopes that Theophane will move into the world title picture later this year having dominated the British scene since winning the title against Lenny Daws in February 2011.

He added: ?I am so lucky to promote so many top class fighters who are also dedicated to the sport.

?Ashley has done it his way and flown around the world solo just to benefit from top class sparring and experience in the best gyms.

?He has served his dues and a world title fight is no more than he deserves, but Hamilton is still there to give him a test.?

Mark "Too Sharp" Davis!

Signs With Warriors, Bluewave, And Newhouse.

Warriors Boxing, Bluewave Boxing and Newhouse Promotions are proud to announce the signing of 2005 and 2006 United States Amateur Champion and undefeated super featherweight Mark "Too Sharp" Davis (16-0, 5 KOs) to an exclusive promotional agreement.

25-year-old Davis is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and now lives in Cleveland, Ohio. During his 200 amateur bouts, he competed at the 2005 World championships and won the Eastern Olympic trials for the 2008 Olympics. Davis also won gold medals at the 2002 US Junior Olympics, the 2002 US National Silver Gloves, and the 2002 Police Athletic League (PAL) tournament as a junior. He won a silver medal at the 2003 PAL and won a gold medal for the USA at the 2003 Under-19 Sweden Cup.

Lightning quick and masterful on defense, as a professional, Davis has already beaten some well-thought-of opposition, including Guillermo Sanchez (13-3) in his latest fight and Ramesis Gil (then 6-1) before that.

"We're all very excited to be working with Mark," said Leon Margules, President of Warriors Boxing. "He was a terrific amateur and he's proven to be a blue-chip prospect as a professional. I predict big things for him."

"He's a future world champion," said Bluewave's Luis DeCubas. "Mark is at a level of skill already that puts him in an elite class. It's going to be a pleasure to work with him and help get him where he wants to go in professional boxing."

Newhouse Promotions, a Cleveland-based company, is also very pleased with the signing: "I feel Mark is on track to become the best fighter in the world," said lifelong friend and Newhouse's Tim VanNewhouse. "Working with strategic men like Luis DeCubas and Leon Margules, I know he will get the opportunity to compete on some of the highest levels the sport can offer."

Battle Of The Badges 4!

Streaming Live On GoFightLive.tv.

"Battle of the Badges 4" spokesman Dennis Marrese announced today that Saturday night's amateur boxing show, featuring the nationally-acclaimed New York City Fire Department Boxing Team ("FDNY") against a New England Law Enforcement ("Team N.E.") squad, will air on GoFightLive.tv live from Fox Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut.

"Battle of the Badges 4" ("BOB4") is presented by National Public Safety Athletic League ("NPSAL") in association with the FDNY Boxing Bravest, Mass Corrections Officers Federated Union Boxing Team (MCOFU) and Foxwoods Resort Casino. Defending champion Team N.E. trails FDNY in the series, 2-1.

Viewers may watch by going online to: http://www.gfl.tv/Events/Fight/Boxing/Battle_Of_The_Badges_4_FDNY_vs_New_England/1507

Hermis Yannis Hawks Media), a popular radio show host in Worcester (MA), will handle the blow-by-blow action from ringside. Providing color commentary is "Iceman" John Scully, the former IBF and IBO world light heavyweight title challenger, who as is chief second for WBC World Light Heavyweight Champion "Bad" Chad Dawson.

"We wanted to give people who are unable to attend the event for whatever reason an opportunity to watch the action and root for their family members, friends, favorite team and causes," Marrese said. "All profits will go towards the worthy charities this unique and entertaining event is supporting."

A Who's Who list of entertainment and sports celebrities are scheduled to be on hand supporting the fundraiser, including former world champion boxers John "The Quietman" Ruiz, Tony "The Pride of Fleet" Street" DeMarco, Vito Antuofermo Jose Antonio "El Gallo" Rivera, and Peter Manfredo, Jr.

Former New England Patriots offensive lineman Joe Andruzzi, who owns three Super Bowl rings, will be in the house with his family. He has three brothers that are members of the FDNY who responded to the 9/11/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Joe is a cancer survivor who established the Joe Andruzzi Foundation.

Also making BOB4 appearances are comedian Lenny Clarke, singer James Massone, who competed in the television show, "The Voice," as well as WCVB (#5) newscaster in Boston, Michelle McPhee. The world renowned FDNY bagpipers will also be involved in festivities.

Proceeds from Saturday's charitable event will benefit Work Vessels For Veterans, NPSAL and FDNY Boxing Bravest Team. More than a dozen matches are scheduled pitting FDNY against Team New England, which is primarily comprised of MCOFU boxers.

Tickets, priced at $30.00 (general admission), $50.00 (reserved seating) and $100.00 (VIP/Ringside), are available to purchase at the Foxwoods Box Office, on line at www.foxwoods.com or www.Ticketmaster.com, by calling 1-855-660-6606 04 1-800.200.2882, or at any Ticketmaster outlet.

Doors open at 6:30 PM/ET with the first match scheduled to start at 7:30 PM/ET.

Go to www.BattleoftheBadges.info or www.foxwoods.com for additional information.

Airich V Solis!

Airich Ready To Upset Solis This Saturday In Pharr.

IBF #12, WBO #11 rated heavyweight Konstantin Airich arrived in the United States yesterday to adjust to time and weather conditions for his IBF intercontinental championship bout against Odlanier Solis this Saturday (May 19th) at the Convention Center in Pharr (Texas).

Airich and his trainer, former German national coach Hans-Juergen Witte, flew from Germany to Miami where they conclude their preparation for the Solis fight with a couple of lighter training sessions before heading to McAllen International airport on Thursday.

Airich (23-5-2, 17 KOs) is the big underdog against 2004 Olympic gold medalist and multiple times world amateur champion Odlanier Solis (17-1, 12 KOs).

"I know that Solis is an excellent fighter", says Airich. "But I also know what I’m capable of. I have surely not come to the United States just to hand over my belt to him. I know that there is always a chance and I am willing to take it."

When working out in Miami Airich wore a t-shirt stating "Nothing is impossible" which might as well be his motto for this fight. "Anything can happen in a boxing ring", adds Airich. "Especially in the heavyweight division one single punch can decide a fight at any time. I consider Solis one of the best fighters in the world today but being the best fighter doesn’t help you when you lie flat on the ground."

The German "Sandman" himself is considered to be one of the hardest punchers in the world. He is a regular sparring partner for both Vitali and Wladimir Klitschko and is coming off two impressive KO wins over Varol Vekiloglu and Ondrej Pala.

"Being the underdog makes things even easier for Konstantin", says his coach Witte. "Nobody expected him to beat Pala – but he did. Now nobody expects him to beat Solis. So he can enter this fight without any pressure. But one thing is for certain: Solis is a complete boxer. With all his amateur merits, his technical and tactical abilities we are surely not here to outbox him and win by decision. Konstantin knows what he has to do: We will go for the knockout."

For Solis the fight against Airich will be his comeback after a 14 months layoff due to the bad knee injury he suffered when challenging WBC heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko for the world title in March 2011 in Cologne, Germany. The Miami based Cuban suffered a cruciate ligament rupture at the end of the first round in which Solis had landed more clean shots on Klitschko than the champion had to take in all his other fights combined since coming out of retirement in 2008.

"In this first two and a half minutes against Klitschko Solis proved that he is probably the only fighter out there who can actually beat both Klitschko brothers", states promoter Ahmet Oner. "Solis is an exceptional talent and as long as he stays healthy he will surely become world heavyweight champion. But as we all know styles make fights. And Airich is a hard puncher, has a great work ethic and strong willpower. He has worked very hard to get to where he is right now. This will clearly be no walk in the park for Solis. I am looking forward to an exciting fight."

Wilson Ready For His Shot!

Flyin’ Under The Radar.

Mike Wilson has spanned the globe from Texas all the way to Australia searching for his golden opportunity.

The 6-foot-3 Irish cruiserweight from Medford, Oreg., whose grandparents were born and raised in County Cork, Ireland, may have finally found it 3,000 miles east in the heart of New England’s booming boxing community.

Wilson (5-0, 3 KOs) has joined forces with Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports in Providence, R.I., and will make his New England debut Thursday, May 24th, 2012 when he faces veteran Joseph Rabotte (11-20-1) in a four-round bout on the undercard of Burchfield’s “Up For Grabs” show at the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln.

“I’m the best-kept secret on this show. You’ll be wondering, ‘Damn, where did he come from?’” Wilson said. “I’ve flown under the radar for years coming from Oregon. I just needed an opportunity, and it looks like it’s finally coming my way.”

“The Irish have a tradition of being warriors, especially when they’re ancestors come from Ireland,” Burchfield added. “That’s how you know they’re really Irish! We’re honored to have Mike on this card, and we’re excited to watch him develop into a championship-caliber fighter while proudly representing boxing’s storied history within the Irish-American community.”

Wilson linked up with Burchfield through his manager, Bob Spagnola, whom Burchfield describes as a “dear friend.”

“Knowing Mike was represented by Bob was enough for me,” Burchfield said.

A Texas native, Spagnola first met Wilson at the 2008 Olympic Trials in Houston. At the time, Wilson was a 24-year-old super heavyweight with three United States National Amateur titles under his belt looking for one last shot at Olympic glory (he came within one fight of qualifying for the 2004 Summer Games in Athens, Greece).

“He had great amateur credentials,” Spagnola said. “A lot of people were after him.”

Unfortunately for Wilson, he and Spagnola could not strike a deal, so after Wilson lost to Kimdo Bethel in the loser’s bracket finals, he signed with Tennessee-based manager Chris Rowland, who guided him to four wins – three by knockout – within the first three months of his professional career.

“All of a sudden, I couldn’t get in touch with [Rowland] for a few months,” Wilson said. “Then the stipends stopped coming. I’m thinking to myself, ‘What the hell is going on?’”

Turns out Rowland had problems of his own; he was indicted in November of 2009 on federal money-laundering charges, just one month after Wilson’s fourth bout, leaving the promising, young heavyweight without a manager (Rowland was later sentenced to 28 months in federal prison in 2011).

He and Spagnola reconnected shortly after Wilson’s fifth bout – a unanimous-decision win over Jae Bryce in Australia – and Spagnola worked quickly to pitch Wilson to a promoter who could bring his career to new heights.

“I told Jimmy, ‘Listen, this kid is worth working on,’” Spagnola said. “All he needed was an opportunity, and with the way this business has changed in this economy, everyone knows those opportunities are few and far in between.

“A guy like Jimmy, with the way he works, will get this kid the opportunity he deserves.”

Wilson’s long-term goal is to drop from heavyweight, where he fought his first five fights, to cruiserweight, where he’ll fight on the 24th, and eventually win a world title in that weight class before bulking back up to heavyweight. The decision to shed the weight stemmed from an inadvertent lifestyle change two years ago.

“When I first turned pro, I worked my ass off in the gym, but I liked to play hard, too,” Wilson said. “I liked to hang out with friends and drink a few beers. One night, I got arrested for [driving under the influence] and had to spend two weeks in jail.

“I’m sitting there with these people thinking, ‘This is where drinking got me. I’m done with it!’”

Once he stopped drinking, Wilson trimmed down to 200 pounds and soon realized he was a more natural fit at cruiserweight despite more than 15 years of experience in the heavyweight division.

“This is where I should’ve been all that time,” he said. “I was always a small heavyweight fighting bigger guys. Now I’m a big cruiserweight fighting smaller guys.”

Wilson hopes to draw from the experiences of Tomasz Adamek, Evander Holyfield and Marco Huck, who each won world titles as cruiserweights before making the leap to heavyweight – the most successful being Holyfield, who went on to become the Undisputed World Heavyweight Champion just two years after winning his last cruiserweight title.

“That’s logistically the easiest way to do it,” Wilson said. “The money’s not great at cruiserweight, but you can get a title shot, and then you’re already in the Top 10 when you move up to heavyweight.

“I followed Adamek and Huck when they went up, but their styles didn’t fit at heavyweight. Huck is more of a brawler – too small. Me, I’m more of a boxer. I like to box. I like to use my length and reach. Adamek, he has that fighter’s heart and mentality, but sometimes those heavyweights are too damn big to bang with.

“That won’t be a problem for me as long as I bring the weight with me. I plan on doing it the right way.”

Wilson has flown under the radar fighting out of Oregon – “There’s really no boxing in the northwest,” Spagnola said – but his amateur background is unrivaled by that of most fighters his age. A self-described “fat kid” growing up, he began boxing at 13 when he joined a newly-opened gym in Medford.

“Boxing had always interested me, and when this gym opened I tried getting a few of my friends to join with me, but none of them had the balls to do it,” Wilson said. “My mom got tired of me talking about it, so she brought me there one day without me knowing and told me, ‘Go inside and sign up.’

“She tricked me, but it worked.”

Boxing soon became an outlet for Wilson to travel the country, a luxury he couldn’t afford growing up since his family had little money. He soared to the top of the super heavyweight division within seven years, capturing the first of three consecutive U.S. National Amateur championships in 2004 (he was later stripped of his 2006 title after testing positive for marijuana, an incident Wilson said is, “in my rearview mirror now”). Later in ‘04, he narrowly missed qualifying for a spot on the U.S. Olympic team when he lost to Providence’s Jason Estrada in the finals.

“At first, I took a lot of things for granted and didn’t always want to train because I’d rather be hanging with my friends,” Wilson said, “but I eventually kind of just woke up and thought, ‘If I’m going to do something with this, I better start now.’”

Following a one-point loss to Michael Hunter, this year’s Olympic qualifier in the heavyweight division, in the 2007 National finals and his subsequent loss to Bethel in the ’08 Olympic trials, Wilson finally made his professional debut in August of 2009.

Through trials and tribulations – stemming from both bad luck and poor decision-making – Wilson has finally landed with the right manager and promoter. Coming soon to an arena near you, “Irish” Mike is ready to state his case as boxing’s best-kept secret.

“I firmly believe everything happens for a reason,” Wilson said. “Sometimes when you starve for so long, it makes you hungry. You’ve got to go through struggles to appreciate things. All I want is one opportunity, and it seems like it’s finally falling into my lap now. I’m going to make the most of it.”

The eight-round main event of “Up For Grabs” features Vladine Biosse (12-1-1, 6 KOs), dubbed “Mr. Providence” due to his strong following in Rhode Island’s capital city, defending his New England Super Middleweight Title against Providence’s Joey “K.O. Kid” Spina (26-2-2, 18 KOs). Unbeaten Burlington, Vt., super middleweight Kevin Cobbs (3-0, 1 KO) will face veteran Borngod Washington (3-10, 1 KO) of Queens, N.Y., in a four-round bout while unbeaten middleweight Thomas Falowo (6-0, 4 KOs) faces La Vista, Neb., native Sean Rawley Wilson (5-10, 1 KO) in a six-round bout.

Super lightweight Zack Ramsey, a former national amateur champion from Springfield, Mass., will make his long-awaited debut against Providence’s Alan Beeman (0-1), while fan-favorite Richard “Bobo The Bull” Starnino (9-7-2, 2 KOs) of Providence will now face Harwich, Mass., native Paul Gonsalves (3-2, 3 KOs) in a six-round light heavyweight bout.

“Up For Grabs” also features the return of former reality television star Richard Gingras (11-2, 7 KOs) of “The Contender,” who, after signing a promotional agreement with Classic Entertainment & Sports, will battle Terrance Smith Jr. (7-13-2, 4 KOs) of Oklahoma City in the six-round cruiserweight special attraction. Female bantamweight Shelito Vincent (2-0) of Providence will battle newcomer Carmen Cruz of Fort Myers, Fla., in a four-round bout.

Tickets for “Up For Grabs” are $35.00, $50.00, $75.00 and $125.00 (VIP) and can be purchased by calling CES at 401.724.2253/2254, online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at the Players Club booth at Twin River, or through any TicketMaster location. Doors open 6 p.m. with the first bout scheduled for 7.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Up For Grabs.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and must enter through the West entrance.)

LOCKED N' LOADED!

RESULTS.

Last Friday Thompson Boxing Promotions featured two main events that included Martinez (17-1-1, 4 KOs) versus Marks (8-4, 8 KOs) and a female bout between undefeated junior flyweight boxers Sindy Amador and Amaris Quintana.

In the main event of the even East L.A.'s Aron Martinez faced Colorado's tough Joshua "Superman". The competitive fight went to the seventh round when Martinez landed a right uppercut, left hook combination that sent Marks to the canvas.

In the co-main event junior flyweights Sindy Amador (8-0) of Riverside was judged the winner over San Diego's Amaris Quintana (6-1-2) in a six round back and forth battle that went the distance. All three judges favored the inside flurries 59-55 twice and 58-56 for Amador.

Opening for the featured fights was Colombia's Jhonatan "Momo" Romero (21-0, 12 KOs) who battled the rugged Adolfo Landeros (20-24-2, 10 KOs). The fight went the entire eight rounds and showcased Romero's speed and reflexes as he pummeled Landeros throughout. In round three Romero nearly forced a stoppage, but Landeros was able to evade the killing blow. One judge scored it 80-72 and two others 80-71 for Romero.

San Fernando's Rigoberto "Asesino" Flores (4-1, 2 KOs) upset undefeated Pedro Arcos (12-1-1, 9 KOs) with a withering attack that overwhelmed the junior welterweight fighter from Tijuana. After a good first round Arcos couldn't sustain his energy level and that was right up Flores's alley. He fought non-stop and landed uppercuts and left hooks that turned around the fight in his favor. All three judges scored it for Flores, 58-56, 60-54 and 59-55.

Their first fight ended in a draw, this fight was won emphatically by Sergio Nuñez (6-0-1, 4 KOs). Santa Ana's Ramon Flores (3-15-2) and Sylmar's Nuñez fought 18 months ago at Chumash Casino. This time Nuñez sent Flores through the ropes with a crushing right cross, and when he beat the count, another flurry of blows ended the fight by technical knockout at 2:40 of the first round. Nuñez remains undefeated.

Edwin "La Bomba" Rodriguez!

Rodriguez Ready To Replace Dirrell.

Undefeated super middleweight contender Edwin "La Bomba" Rodriguez is ready, willing and able to replace No. 1 contender Anthony Dirrell, who was recently injured in a motorcycle accident, and fight No. 2 rated Nikola Sjekloca for the vacant World Boxing Council ("WBC") 168-pound title.

Sjekloca and Dirrell, who is out of action for a reported six months, were ordered to fight for the WBC title, after Andre Ward was declared "Champion in Recess."

"This is why I signed with Lou DiBella," Rodriguez said from Andy Lee's training camp where he is sparring with the Irish middleweight contender. "It's my time and I'm ready to replace Dirrell against Sjekloca. If anybody can get this opportunity for me it's Lou."

The 27-year-old Rodriguez (21-0, 14 KOs), a native of the Dominican Republic who lives in Worcester (MA), has been showcased on HBO, three times on ShoBox, and featured twice on ESPN. In his last five fights, he has beaten opponents with a combined record of 83-7-2, including three world-rated fighters (Don George, Aaron Pryor, Jr. and James McGirt), as well as unbeaten National amateur champion Will Rosinsky).

"We're ready for the best but it looks like Ward's moving up in weight and (Lucian) Bute's tied-up with (Carl) Froch," Rodriguez' manager Larry Army noted. "Right now, though, Edwin has earned a world title shot and we're confident he's ready to fight and beat Sjekloca."

Sjekloca (24-0, 7 KOs), a 33-year-old Serbian who lives in Montenegro, is the reigning WBC International super middleweight champion. However, he has fought only once outside of Montenegro and Serbia, in 2010 against 8-24 Artem Vychkin in a win by six-round decision. The lone opponent of note Sjekloca has fought is four-time world title challenger and former European champion, Khoren Gevor, who lost a close 12-round decision to Sjekloca last year.

Rodriguez, who cracked The Ring Magazine world ratings last week at No. 10, is ranked No. 3 International Boxing Federation ("IBF"), No. 5 by the WBC, #8 World Boxing Association ("WBA") and #13 World Boxing Organization ("WBO").

Maurice “Freight Train” Byarm!

“This Is My Shot At Redemption”.

Like most professional boxers, heavyweight Maurice “Freight Train” Byarm never thought about what it’d be like to lose.

The Washington, DC based Philadelphian stopped 9 of his first 13 opponents and was named one of the best prospects in the beltway region. Still, Byarm, who had less than 15 amateur fights, was learning on the job. Between his work ethic and sparring quality fighters such as Tony Thompson, Byarm made notable improvements with every fight. In his final bout of 2011, the crowd-pleasing 29-year-old stopped veteran Clinton Boldridge in 74 seconds and planned to step up the competition.

Earlier this year, Byarm got his opportunity; albeit under far different circumstances than he imagined.

On January 21 before a nationally televised audience on the NBC Sports Network, Byarm dropped a competitive decision to fellow American heavyweight Bryant Jennings in a bout that both men took on five days notice. The loss was unexpected, but he considered it a learning experience.

“The Jennings fight taught me that I had to be more patient and stick to my game plan,” said Byarm. “I wanted to impose my will on him but his defense and movement were very good and I didn’t make the adjustments my team discussed.”

Luckily, Byarm can prove that he’s amongst America’s top heavyweights when he challenges highly touted Magomed Abdusalamov at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV Friday, July 6 on ESPN 2’s Friday Night Fights. Like Jennings, Abdusalamov is yet to taste defeat, winning all 14 of his bouts by knockout. The 6’3 Russian’s last three opponents were a combined 34-1 and his most recent victory, a four round destruction of previously unbeaten Jason Pettaway, earned him the WBC USNBC title.

“He’s a decent fighter but I’ve seen a lot of flaws,” Byarm said of Abdusalamov. “I’m going to fight my fight and we’ve got a good game plan this time around. His record and knockouts don’t’ mean much to me because he hasn’t fought anybody of my caliber. He has punching power but I have punching power too. I know my will to win this fight is much higher than his. This will be my shot to show the world what I truly have to offer!”

The 10-round southpaw showdown between Byarm and Abdusalamov is promoted by Greg Cohen Promotions and Sampson Boxing.

Fans can interact with Byarm by visiting Facebook.com/maurice.byarm and for more information on his July 6 bout, go to Gcpboxing.com or Hardrockhotel.com.

Hector "El Tigre" Saldivia!

Signs With Marvailla Box,Re-Signs With Sampson Boxing.

Argentinean welterweight contender Hector "El Tigre" Saldivia (41-2, 32 KO) has signed a managerial agreement with middleweight champion Sergio Martinez's Maravilla Box and re-signed another long-term promotional agreement with promoter Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing.

The exciting 28-year-old Saldivia, from Comodoro Rivadavia, Chubut, Argentina, is a former WBA Fedelatin Welterweight Champion, currently rated #4 in the IBF and #15 in the WBC.

Saldivia is currently riding an eight-fight winning streak. As part of the Maravilla Box stable, Saldivia will now be trained by the mastermind behind so many of his fighters' success, super trainer Pablo Sarmiento.

"Now that he is with the best manager and trainer in boxing, it will be Hector's time to become champion," said the proud Lewkowicz. "We will be petitioning the IBF to fight an eliminator for the right to face the winner of the Mike Jones and Randall Bailey fight for the vacant title in June."

Scott Quigg!

I AM THE UNDERDOG.

SCOTT QUIGG is shocked that bookies’ have made him red hot favourite to beat Rendall Munroe next month.

Quigg challenges Munroe for the vacant interim WBA super-bantamweight crown on Hatton Promotions ‘Road To Glory’ bill at Manchester Velodrome on Saturday 16th June.

Although Quigg is British champion and undefeated in 24 fights, the Leicester southpaw is a former European champion and challenged Toshiaki Nishioka for the WBC crown.

Bury’s Quigg, 23, said: “Bookies have me as favourite which is strange. I am the underdog.

“What Rendall has achieved and level he has fought at is fantastic. It is a massive step up from where I have been fighting.

“I have only had two major championship fights and people are saying my opponents Jason Booth and Jamie Arthur had seen their best days.

“I am not disagreeing and realise how much I’ll be up against it. I haven’t even touched his level, but I know what I’m capable of doing

“There is no pressure on me. The only pressure I have is the fear of losing.

“On paper he should turn up and win, but I am one million per-cent confident I will win.”

The ‘Road To Glory’ bill also features a vacant European light-middleweight title fight between Ryan Rhodes and Sergey Rabchenko, Martin Murray in championship action and Richard Towers facing Michael Wallisch for the vacant EU heavyweight crown.

There will be a talent stacked undercard that will include former British and Commonwealth welterweight champion Craig Watson, unbeaten hopefuls Adam Etches, Scott Jenkins and Adam Little.

Ticket prices are now on sale priced £125 (VIP Inner Ringside + exclusive cash bar), £100 Ringside, £55, £35 and £30. You can purchase tickets by calling Hatton Promotions hotline 01925 755 222/www.ticketmaster.co.uk/0844 847 2500/www.ticketline.co.uk/0844 888 4402/www.hmv.com

Ring 8!

Itskowitch & Woods.

Tomorrow night's (Tuesday, May 15, 7 PM / ET) special guest speakers at the Ring 8 monthly meeting, held at the historic Waterfront Crabhouse in Long Island City, will be David Itskowitch, COO of Golden Boy Promotions, and award-winning boxing writer Mike Woods.

In 2007, Itskowitch was selected as the Chief Operating Officer for Golden Boy Promotions. The University of Wisconsin graduate previously served as Vice President of DiBella Entertainment and he also worked three years for HBO Sports.

Woods is a boxing writer for ESPN/NewYork.com and ESPN The Magazine, as well as editor-in-chief of www.thesweetscince.com. Mike, a Ring 8 member, also does color commentary for boxing broadcasts.

"We're very happy to have two guest speakers from completely different sides of the boxing industry," Ring 8 president Bob Duffy said. "I've known both of these young men for many years and they are highly respected in their fields. David can tell us about the monthly boxing shows Golden Boy will promote in New York City, starting later this year at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, in addition to discussing the business end of boxing. Mike has had his fingers on the pulse of boxing news, especially here in New York City, for many years. He has covered some of the biggest fights in boxing and written about a wide variety of fighters ranging from world champions to prospects. Mike has been very supportive of Ring 8 for a long time."

Vincent Thrives Amidst Adversity!

From The Ground Up.

Several weeks after celebrating her 33rd birthday, Shelito Vincent finally got the chance to walk the halls of Bennie Dover Jackson Middle School.

“That was supposed to be my school,” Vincent said. “Better late than never, right?”

Vincent (2-0) returned to what would’ve been her alma mater Monday morning to speak to a group of eighth-grade students as part of the school’s Leadership Conference, sharing the graphic, emotional stories of her troubled past in hopes that they don’t travel the same path she did as a youth.

The undefeated female bantamweight from New London, Conn., will return to the ring Thursday, May 24th, 2012 on the undercard of Jimmy Burchfield’s “Up For Grabs” professional boxing event at the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, R.I., against newcomer Carmen Cruz of Fort Myers, Fla. Whatever free time Vincent has these days is spent training and giving back to the community, the latter of which has become a major priority in her personal life in conjunction with her growing popularity in New London.

“I feel like I owe it to some kid to see to it that the same things that happened to me don’t happen to them,” Vincent said. “I wish someone had done that for me. ”

A “great kid” and “great student” her whole life, Vincent began spiraling out of control at the age of 13 when she was raped by one of her mother’s male co-workers, a family friend and correctional officer who lived next door.

“I began drinking and fighting – any time I felt threatened by someone, I would just start beating on them,” she said. “There were times I wanted to die.”

Vincent’s depression and alcohol abuse worsened six years later when her mother, Tania, died from leukemia at 37, just seven months following the initial diagnosis.

“I rebelled against everyone,” Vincent said.

The constant fighting eventually led to Vincent’s expulsion from the Groton school system, though she later earned her General Education Degree (GED) in New London. Amidst all her troubles, she found an outlet in boxing, training with Kent Ward at Strike Zone. Two days after her mother died – and after only one month of training – she fought her first amateur bout at 19.

“I didn’t want to fight,” she said, “but, before she died, my mom made me promise I wouldn’t stop boxing.”

Vincent showed early promise, but multiple run-ins with the law – along with the death of her grandmother and the inability to find quality opponents – derailed her progress on and off for more than a decade. She served her first jail sentence at 18, followed by two more stints over the next 15 years, all for assault.

“Every time I had something good going for me,” she said, “I ended up back in jail for fighting.”

Her third and final arrest occurred in 2008, which she credits as the turning point in her life.

“Talking with some of the inmates, I started wondering what could happen if I started taking my life seriously,” she said. “After I got out for the third time, I told myself, ‘This time, I’m not going back. I’m just going to come out and box.’”

Vincent soon linked up with New England-based trainer Kurt Reader and quickly got her life back on track. Last year, she won a national Golden Gloves title, capping her amateur career with an 11-4 record before finally making her professional debut at 32 with a win over Karen Dulin in October. Vincent beat Dulin again in March for her second consecutive win, both under the promotional guidance of Burchfield, who signed her shortly before her debut.

Boxing has not only kept her off the streets, but it’s also kept her from reliving her past. No longer stuck in neutral, Vincent is moving forward in hopes of one day capturing a world title while inspiring other troubled youth to change their course in life.

“I’m not depressed anymore,” said Vincent, who is also volunteering for the Haymakers For Hope program in Boston to help raise money for cancer research.

“Right now, the only people I talk to are boxing people, because boxing was the only thing that kept me from being depressed. I’m not around negative people anymore. I’m happy now. I think I have the talent to win some titles; I just need to stay focused. You just know when you get to a certain point that things are going to be different, and I’m at that point now.”

The eight-round main event of “Up For Grabs” features Vladine Biosse (12-1-1, 6 KOs), dubbed “Mr. Providence” due to his strong following in Rhode Island’s capital city, defending his New England Super Middleweight Title against Providence’s Joey “K.O. Kid” Spina (26-2-2, 18 KOs). Unbeaten Burlington, Vt., super middleweight Kevin Cobbs (3-0, 1 KO) will face veteran Borngod Washington (3-10, 1 KO) of Queens, N.Y., in a four-round bout while unbeaten middleweight Thomas Falowo (6-0, 4 KOs) faces La Vista, Neb., native Sean Rawley Wilson (5-10, 1 KO) in a six-round bout.

CES will also introduce another one of its most recent signings when undefeated Medford, Oreg., heavyweight “Irish” Mike Wilson (5-0, 3 KOs) returns to the ring in a four-round bout against Joseph Rabotte (11-20-1, 3 KOs) of Myrtle Beach, S.C.

Super lightweight Zack Ramsey, a former national amateur champion from Springfield, Mass., will make his long-awaited debut against Providence’s Alan Beeman (0-1), while fan-favorite Richard “Bobo The Bull” Starnino (9-7-2, 2 KOs) of Providence will now face Harwich, Mass., native Paul Gonsalves (3-2, 3 KOs) in a six-round light heavyweight bout.

“Up For Grabs” also features the return of former reality television star Richard Gingras (11-2, 7 KOs) of “The Contender,” who, after signing a promotional agreement with Classic Entertainment & Sports, will battle Terrance Smith Jr. (7-13-2, 4 KOs) of Oklahoma City in the six-round cruiserweight special attraction.

Tickets for “Up For Grabs” are $35.00, $50.00, $75.00 and $125.00 (VIP) and can be purchased by calling CES at 401.724.2253/2254, online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at the Players Club booth at Twin River, or through any TicketMaster location. Doors open 6 p.m. with the first bout scheduled for 7.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Up For Grabs.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and must enter through the West entrance.)

HARD ROCK BOXING!

July 6TH At Hard Rock Hotel & Casino In Vegas.

On Friday, July 6, promoters Sampson Boxing and Greg Cohen Boxing will proudly present "Hard Rock Boxing", live from the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas, and televised live on ESPN Friday Night Fights.

In the 10-round featherweight main event, former WBO Super Flyweight Champion "Marvelous" Marvin Sonsona (16-1-1, 13 KOs) will take on the formidable Orlando "El Fenómeno" Cruz (18-2-1, 9 KOs) in a showdown between proven southpaw warriors.

And in the televised co-feature, Russian heavyweight power puncher Magomed "Mago" Abdusalamov (14-0, 14 KOs) will defend his WBC United States (USNBC) Silver Heavyweight Championship in a 10-round battle against fellow up-and-coming heavyweight Maurice "Freight Train" Byarm (13-1-1, 9 KOs).

21-year-old Marvin Sonsona is a native of General Santos City, Cotabato del Sur, Philippines. His only career loss was to Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. for the vacant WBO super bantamweight Championship in February 2010.

Sonsona started boxing as an amateur at the age of seven and had 150 amateur fights before turning professional in 2007, just weeks before his 17th birthday.

30-year-old Orlando Cruz hails from San Juan, Puerto Rico, and represented his homeland at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia, as a bantamweight.

Cruz was undefeated at 16-0-1 until losing back-to-back title fights by stoppage to Cornelius Lock and former world champion Daniel Ponce De Leon in 2009/2010. He has rebounded since then to score quality wins over Alejandro Delgado and Michael Franco.

31-year-old Magomed Abdusalamov was born in Makhachkala, Russia, but now lives and trains in Oxnard, California.

Abdusalamov was the 2005 and 2006 Russian Amateur Champion at super heavyweight before turning professional in 2008. He is the current WBC United States (USNBC) Silver Heavyweight Champion, having won the title by TKO 4 over formerly undefeated Jason Pettaway in March.

29-year-old southpaw heavyweight Maurice Byarm lives in Washington, DC, and was born in Philadelphia.

Byarm is the son of Lionel Byarm, a professional fighter who most notably fought the legendary Evander Holyfield on the 1984 US Olympian card. He was undefeated as a professional until his last fight, a decision loss to fellow Philadelphian Bryant Jennings in January of this year.

Headlining the undercard, popular heavyweight and current interim PABA Heavyweight Champion "Bronco" Billy Wright (37-4, 28 KOs) will continue his successful comeback in a six-round bout.

Also scheduled to fight six-round bouts are Las Vegas, via Puerto Rico, super middleweight Carlos De Leon Jr (21-3-2, 14 KOs); Las Vegas via Accra, Ghana, middleweight KO artist Bastie Samir (10-0-1, 10 KOs); and undefeated Las Vegas featherweight Rocco Santomauro (8-0).

Scheduled for a four-rounder is Jackson, Michigan, cruiserweight William "Lil' Tyson" Williams (5-2-1, 4 KOs).

Orlando Cruz appears courtesy of Tuto Zavala's All Star Boxing. Marvin Sonsona is co-promoted by Sammy Gello-ani of SGG Sports Promotions of the Philippines.

All undercard opponents are TBA.

Tickets for "Hard Rock Boxing" are priced at $29 general admission, $60 reserved, $100 ringside and $200 VIP and are available at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino box office daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and through Ticketmaster, either by calling 702-474-4000 or 800-745-3000, or by going online at ticketmaster.com.

On fight night, doors open at 5:00 p.m. and the event starts at 5:30 p.m. All bouts are subject to change.

Warriors Boxing!

Margules Congratulates Victorious Fighters.

Warriors Boxing Promotions' President, Leon Margules, wishes to congratulate all four of his fighters who were victorious this past Friday, May 11.

Making his nationally televised ShoBox: The New Generation debut in the co-main event of a Warriors Boxing event entitled "Shootout at Texas Station", from the Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel in Las Vegas, undefeated super middleweight Badou Jack "The Ripper" (11-0, 8 KOs) survived a close fight against awkwardly confusing opponent Alexander Brand (17-1, 15 KOs).

Jack had to call on all his experience to overcome the herky-jerky style of Brand and win via split decision (77-75, 77-75, 75-77).

To his credit, the Swedish import was able to keep his cool and deliver well-placed power shots and control just enough of the rounds, while Colombia's Brand ran around the ring and then jumped in with unconventional punches from strange angles.

On the Texas Station undercard, super featherweight powerhouse Rances "Kid Blast" Barthelemy (16-0, 11 KOs) scored a clear-cut unanimous eight-round decision (79-72, 78-73, 78-73) over Denmark, via Nigeria's Robert "Super" Osiobe (11-5, 6 KOs).

Osiobe went for broke in the early rounds and found limited success, but gradually the strength and wicked body attack of Barthelemy took over. After finding a way to outbox the careful Hylon Williams in his last fight, Barthelemy showed in this fight that he also knows what to do when an opponent tries to bull rush him.

Puerto Rican super middleweight prospect Roberto Jose Acevedo (3-0, 2 KOs) dropped and stopped opponent Martinez Sharod Porter (1-1) of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, at 2:19 of round two. Acevedo displayed tremendous timing and strength while walking down the game Porter.

Meanwhile, on the same night at the Miriam "Betty" Segarra Coliseum in Peñuelas, Puerto Rico, Warriors Boxing Promotions' (co-promoted with Universal Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions) undefeated lightweight sensation Jorge "Machito" Maysonet (7-0, 6 KOs) scored a breathtaking first-round TKO over Gabriel Diaz ( 5-7, 1 KO ). Diaz was down three times before the referee stopped the fight at 1:26.

"All my fighters got what they needed tonight," said the proud Margules. "Badou Jack showed tremendous focus in sticking to the plan against a very awkward opponent. It was a valuable learning experience for an up-and-coming fighter of what to do when a guy doesn't come at you in the conventional way. Rances Barthelemy showed once again why he's a monster at super featherweight. Give Osiobe credit, he came to fight, but after Rances sunk a few of those body shots he settled down quite a bit. Roberto Acevedo and Jorge Maysonet are both developing prospects we look for big things from and they both got early stoppages against decent opponents. These kinds of fights give a young prospect time in the ring and get them ready for the next step up."

Atlas Cops & Kids Boxing Program!

Produces 1st Olympian Marcus Browne.

This summer in London, Staten Island light heavyweight (178 pounds) Marcus Browne will be the first Atlas Cops & Kids Boxing Program product to compete in the Olympic Games, representing Team USA.

Coached by Gary Stark at the Park Hill Boxing Club, Browne is a two-time National PAL champion and 2012 USA Boxing National gold medalist who officially qualified to box in the 2012 Olympics by defeating Felix Valera (Dominican Republic), 12-6, in a quarterfinals match last weekend at the American Qualifier in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Browne went on to capture a gold medal.

The Dr. Theodore A. Atlas Foundation, a non-profit organization founded by renowned boxing trainer and television analyst Teddy Atlas in his father's memory, currently leases gym space for $1.00 a year for its Brooklyn and Staten Island locations. Operational costs, however, are approximately $50,000 for each gym. The money is used to pay coaches and to purchase equipment for the boxing program, and to pay a certified teacher who runs the educational component of each gym The Atlas Cops & Kids Boxing Program presently operates two gyms, in Park Hill and in East Flatbush in Brooklyn, with two new gyms scheduled to open this month at the Berry Houses in Staten Island and in the Brownsville section of Brooklyn.

Donations and sponsorships are needed to sustain the Atlas Cops & Kids Boxing Program. For more information go online to http://www.dratlasfoundation.com/boxingclubs.html or call 718.980.7037.

Results From Poughkeepsie!

Hyland Impressive Stops Archuleta In Fourth Round.

Undefeated Irish super featherweight Patrick "The Punisher" Hyland improved his record to a perfect 26-0, registering his 12th knockout when the action was halted by the referee Benji Estevez in the fourth round as veteran Frankie Archuleta (27-10-1, 14 KOs) was being pounded in tonight's main event, headlining "Irish Invasion," at Mid-Hudson Civic Center in Poughkeepsie, New York.

"Irish Invasion" was presented by Final Round Promotions, in association with Team Snooki Boxing and Bob Duffy's Ring Promotions, and sponsored in part by Title Boxing.

Hyland came out throwing crippling body shots, taking complete control from the opening bell. He dropped Archuleta in the first and third rounds, peppering Artchuleta with stiff jabs, solid combinations and devastating body blows.

"It was a good fight but I could have done a little better," Hyland said after the fight. "He's a tough guy who hit me with a couple of good shots. I got him with some good shots in the fourth when it was stopped. I'm a contender, 26-0, and fighting here in the United States. I'm ready for anybody at 126 pounds."

Arkansas invader Josh Williams (6-4, 4 KOs) upset previously unbeaten Bryant "The Spartan" Pappas (13-1-1, 13 KOs), winning a six-round decision in an entertaining match. Former USA Mid-American middleweight champion Pappas, a sergeant in the Yonkers Police Department, is a cancer survivor who donated his purse to cancer research.

Poughkeepsie super featherweight Chazz McDowell (6-1, 1 KOs) won a six-round majority decision from Cuban-born Yuniel Ramos. Canadian light welterweight Natasha "The Nightmare" Spencer (4-0-1, 2 KOs) tangles with Racquel Bailey (1-2-1) in a six-round female match. New York City light middleweight Valdrin Muriqi (3-1) won a unanimous four-round decision over a game Philip Burnette (2-4, 1 KOs), Team Snooki Boxing was donating $1.00 from each sold ticket to Rolling Thunder, Chapter III New York to support needy U.S. military veterans.

"Irish Invasion" replays are available to watch at www.ustream.tv/bslive.

Nelson Upsets Jhonson!

Shootout At Texas Station.

Both Willie Nelson (18-1-1) & Yudel Jhonson put on a performance of a lifetime in front of millions of viewers at home. Both warriors showed heart rising from the canvas, as well as being stunned numerous times. By the end of the 4th many observers Ringside did not believe it would go the distance. Nelson overcame a knockdown that would taken out most men in the 4th to impose his will throughout the fight. Jhonson had his moments but they were just not enough. The judges scored the fight 97-92 x 2 as well as 95-94 all in favor of Willie Nelson!

Undefeated Badou Jack (11-0) was in the fight of his life with previously undefeated Colombian Alexander Brand (17-1). Brand used awkward movement as his attack. He mimicked teammate and Middleweight Kingpin Sergio Martinez. Badou found success in the later rounds. The Judges had it a split decision in favor of Badou Jack with all score reading 77-75. ATG's sorecards read 77-75 Jack via Frank Stea, 76-76 Draw via Tim Kudgis, and 77-75 Brand via Matt Bishop of BoxingTalk.com

After the fight Badou Jack had this to say "He's awkward he didn't want to fight. I had to press him hard to get to him. I will do better next time."

Super Featherweight Prospect Rances Barthelemy remained undefeated with a unanimous decsion over the very game and rugged Robert Osiobe (11-5-4). Judges scored the fight 79-72 & 78-73 x 2 for your winner Rances Barthelemy!

Roberto Acevedo showed great hand speed and power to drop Martinez Porter in the second then landing a barrage of punches forcing the ref to step in at 2:19 of round two.

Cruiserweight Mitch Williams showed he was not a "Wild Thing" by using his heavy hands to administer punishment dropping the previously undefeated Carlos Gaytan (3-1-1) at the 1:20 mark of the 1st round.

Cuban Light Heavyweight Yunieski Gonzalez (8-0) destroyed the very overmatched Carlos Reyes (5-3-1) dropping him once before the ref called a halt to the action at the 1:39 mark of the 1st round.

Viloria & Romero Make Weight!

Island Assault 4.

WBO Flyweight Championship (12)

BRIAN VILORIA (30-3 17 KOs), Champion, Ealpahu, Hawaii, USA 112 LBS.
OMAR NINO ROMERO (31-4-2, 13 KOs), Challenger, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico 112 LBS.

Co-Feature - Flyweights (10)

JULIO CESAR MIRANDA (37-6-1, 29 KOs), Tampico, Tamaulipas, Mexico 114 LBS.
RODEL MAYOL (30-5-2, 22 KOs), Los Angeles, California, USA by way of Mexico 114 LBS.

WBO Interim ASPAC Bantamweight Championship (12)

ROBERT UDTUHAN (17-1-1, 13 KOs), Digos City, Davao del Sur, Philippines LBS. NA
ALVIN MAKOLING (9-4-1, 2 KOs), Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines LBS. NA

Featherweights (10)

JUN DOLIGUEZ (11-0, 7 KOs), Agoncillo, Batangas, Philippines LBS. NA
JONEL ALIBIO (16-13-2, 8 KOs), Quezin City, Metro Manila, Philippines LBS. NA

Distributed in the United States by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9:00 PM/ET - 6:00 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, DISH Network and Avail-TVN for a suggested retail price of only $29.95. "Island Assault 4: The Battle" will also be available in Canada to Super Channel subscribers. For on-line PPV viewers go to Ustream.tv at http://www.ustream.tv/integratedsportsppv.

IRISH INVASION!

WEIGHTS FROM POUGHKEEPSIE.

Main Event - Super Middleweights (10)

Patrick Hyland (25-0, 11 KOs), Marlboro, NY by way of Dublin, Ireland 129 LBS.
Frankie Archuleta (27-9-1, 14 KOs), Albuquerque, NM 127 LBS.

Super Featherweights (6)

Chazz McDowell (5-1, 1 KO), Yonkers, NY 130 LBS.
Yuniel Ramos (1-6-1), Miami, FL by way of Las Tunas, Cuba 127 LBS.

Female Super Featherweights (6)

Natasha Spence (3-0-1, 2 KOs), Mississauga, Ontario, Canada 132 LBS.
Racquel Bailey (1-1-1), Oklahoma City, OK 131 LBS.

Light Middleweights (4)

Valdrin Muriqi (2-1), New York, NY by way of Albania 157 LBS.
Philip Burnette (2-3, 1 KO), Myrtle Beach, SC 158 LBS.

Middleweight (4)

Byrant Pappas (13-0-1, 13 KOs), Yonkers, NY 159 LBS.
Josh Williams (5-4, 4 KOs), Sheridan, AK 158 LBS.

Final Round Promotions, in association with Team Snooki Boxing and Bob Duffy's Ring Promotions, sponsored in part by Title Boxing

TICKETS: $35.00, $50.00 and $100 (Gold Ringside) - available to purchase at the Mid-Hudson Civic Center and through all Ticketmaster outlets

INFORMATION: www.finalroundpromotions.com

DOORS OPEN: 6:30 PM/ET FIRST BOUT: 7:30 PM/ET

GOOSSEN TUTOR PROMOTIONS!

LIVE AT THE LODGE 1.

Boxing in the San Fernando Valley is about to be rekindled at the legendary Sportsmen's Lodge in Studio City, Calif. The Lodge hosted its first boxing event in 1970. The last events held there in the 90's were promoted by Dan Goossen. Now, 14 years since the Sportsmen's Lodge last hosted boxing, the San Fernando valley's Goossen Tutor Promotions will again look to create a series of boxing events held every two months throughout the year. The inaugural world-class event will be held on Saturday evening, June 23, when former WBA Super Bantamweight World Champion Rico Ramos laces up the gloves against the undefeated 2008 Colombian Olympian Jhonatan Romero.

Boxing fans in attendance will also see the return of lightweight stud John Molina Jr., and a battle between two undefeated young super flyweight stars in Matthew Villanueva of Burbank, Calif. against Austreberto Juarez of Ventura, Calif. The event will be broadcast on TeleFutura's hit series "Solo Boxeo Tecate."

Tickets priced at $103.50 VIP, $52.50 Ringside & $32.50 will go on sale this Wednesday, May 16 at www.GoossenTutor.com/schedule or by calling the Goossen Tutor office at (818) 817-8001. Tickets will also be available the day of the event at the Lodge.

Not since the days of the Reseda Country Club in the early 80's through the mid-90's has a reoccurring boxing show called the San Fernando Valley its home. Dan Goossen promoted hundreds of shows during that period where top of the line celebrities like Sylvester Stallone, Gene Hackman, James Caan, Cheech Marin, Tony Danza, Michael Landon, Billy Dee Williams, Michael J. Fox,Heather Locklear, Howie Long and Mr. T among many others could be seen sitting ringside for the fight action, which featured many of the initial bouts of World Champions and Valley residents Michael Nunn and the Ruelas Brothers, Gabriel and Rafael. Others, including Tex Cobb, and world champions Terry Norris, Wayne McCullough had the fans wanting more. Now Goossen is going "Back to the Future" with another hot San Fernando Valley location in the Lodge.

The Sportsmen's Lodge first opened its doors in the 1880's and is a Southern California landmark that was once a popular gathering spot for the who's who of old Hollywood including Clark Gable, Bette Davis, John Wayne, Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn. Operating under various names in the first half of the 20th Century, the lodge was known for its trout-fishing lake where families came to catch and eat their own dinners, cooked courtesy of the lodge's restaurant.

"We are so excited to have world class boxing back here at The Sportsmen's Lodge," exclaimed Michelle Bucks, Director of Sales and Marketing at The Sportsmens Lodge. "Goossen Tutor Promotions was a major part of the Events Center throughout the 70's, 80's, & 90's, and we are looking forward to the next 30 Years Together!"

Also happy about the events to come is the Sportsmen's Lodge General Manager, Laurence Whiting, stating "We at the Sportsmen's Lodge Event Center are thrilled to resume a long-standing tradition of high quality boxing in partnership with Goossen Tutor Promotions. It's a world-class event, perfectly positioned at our historic venue. We look forward to great success, and marvelous entertainment for our guests, both for this inaugural show, and hopefully for years to come."

Having recently completed a 10-month renovation of its Events Center, which now boasts room for 1,000 boxing fans, Goossen is looking to reestablish home-grown World Champions fighting locally within a celebrity setting with the first event featuring a main and semi-main bout with a combined record of the fighters of 57 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw, with 32 knockouts.

Rico Ramos (20-1, 11 KOs) reached his dream of becoming a World Champion when he stopped defending World Champion Akifumi Shimoda (23-2-1, 10 KOs) in Atlantic City on July 9, 2011 and televised on HBO.

In his first defense of the title, Ramos was dealt no easy task as he faced two-time Cuban Olympic gold medalist in Guillermo Rigondeaux (9-0, 7 KOs) on January 20, 2012. The fight, held at the Pearl inside Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas and televised on SHOWTIME, e­nded when Rigondeaux stopped Ramos in the seventh round.

"I need to redeem myself for the poor showing I had against Rigondeaux, and the only way to do that is fight," said Ramos. "I'm facing another undefeated Olympian with a strong amateur background in a fight that can get me back into the world championship picture with an impressive victory."

Making his first steps on the road to recovering his championship, Ramos will need to beat the tough 25-year-old Romero (20-0, 12 KOs). The undefeated Colombian improved his record to 20 wins this past December by scoring a unanimous decision over the very respected Chris Avalos (19-2, 15 KOs).

Romero can't wait for the chance of getting the former world champion in the ring. "Beat the champ and suddenly the boxing world knows who you are," stated Romero, "and I intend to beat Ramos."

In the co-main event, Burbank's Matthew Villanueva (7-0-1, 7 KOs) will look to remain unbeaten against Austreberto Juarez (10-1, 2 KOs), who is eager to prove that the single blemish on his record was a fluke.

Villanueva last appeared on SHOWTIME the same night Ramos took on Rigondeaux. He unleashed a relentless assault against Michael Ruiz Jr. (8-2-1, 3 KOs) in that bout, forcing referee Russell Mora to stop the bout in the seventh round.

Upon hearing the news of his fight at the Sportsmen's Lodge Villanueva was ecstatic, "I can't wait to be fighting literally blocks away from my home in front of family, friends and what is sure to be a sell-out crowd. I want to build a local following and intend doing that with knockout action."

In Juarez's last bout he sustained the only loss of his career in a decision to Miguel Diaz (8-0, 3 KOs) in an eight-round fight on March 10, 2012.

"Despite a tough decision in my last outing, I know that I am capable of fighting at an elite level, and I am eager to show the world that I am a strong and exciting competitor in this division."

Widely considered one of the hottest young lightweight prospects in boxing, John Molina Jr., who is a native of Covina, California, has posted 19 vicious knockouts among his first 23 wins, while only sustaining one loss in his career entering the ring that night with the flu.

Molina's most recent ring appearance came in June of last year, when he took on Robert Frankel (28-11-1, 5 KOs) at Pechanga Resort & Casino in Cabazon, Calif. Molina was too quick and powerful for the tested veteran fighter, and Raul Caiz Jr. would stop the bout at the conclusion of round 5.

Having had his eye on lightweight kingpin Brandon Rios, as well as the divisions title holders for some time now, Molina looks to establish himself as a contender for top dog in the division by securing a win at the Sportsmen's Lodge in dominant fashion.

"I've been in the gym this whole time and I'm looking forward to showcasing my ability and showing the world that I am ready to take on and beat the upper echelon of fighters at 135."

As for the Sportsmen's Lodge, you can imagine they've had their share of some names from the past that have fought there, including Peter McNeely, who after beating Larry Menefee at the Lodge in a bout Goossen promoted, would go on to break Pay-Per-View records in his next immediate fight against Mike Tyson at the MGM in Las Vegas. From the other side of the pond, one of England's current top trainers, Robert McCracken, defended his undefeated record through 30 fights at the Sportsmen's Lodge on February 27, 1998.

McCracken, who was once promoted by Goossen, also holds the distinction of being the trainer of Carl Froch, who this past December was thoroughly dominated by Andre Ward on his way to winning the SHOWTIME Super Six World Boxing Classic Tournament.

Falowo Continues Rapid Climb!

All In A Day’s Work.

In some ways, Thomas Falowo was more enamored with the unique souvenir he took home back in March than he was with his victory.

“I got my first black eye as a pro,” Falowo said of his hard-earned, unanimous-decision win over Troy Artis on March 22nd. “It’s good to get that experience out of the way. If all of your fights are one-sided, you get a false sense of security.”

The road to the top has grown increasingly more difficult for Falowo (6-0, 4 KOs) in his last two fights. The undefeated Pawtucket, R.I., middleweight began his career with four consecutive knockouts – three within the first four rounds – but has now gone the distance in each of his last two wins.

Falowo is expecting yet another challenge Thursday, May 24th, 2012 when he faces 29-year-old La Vista, Neb., native Sean Rawley Wilson (5-10, 1 KO) in a six-round bout on the undercard of “Up For Grabs,” presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports at the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, R.I.

Though the record doesn’t show it, Wilson is a worthy adversary; the combined record of his last five opponents is 53-1, and he went the distance in each of those fights, with the lone exception being a fifth-round knockout loss to unbeaten Jermall Charlo in March. Falowo will be Wilson’s fourth consecutive undefeated opponent, capping a stretch of four bouts in just three months.

Wilson is also an accomplished professional in mixed martial arts, where he’s fought a staggering 47 bouts in just over a decade, totaling 30 wins with nine knockouts.

“I’m not really sure what to expect,” Falowo said, “but I know he’ll come forward and fight me. He’s tough – anybody who steps inside that ring or cage has to be tough.”

These are the challenges Falowo wants, and needs. His hectic work schedule – he’s a pharmacy technician for CVS – leaves him with little spare time outside of the gym, but his hours have changed in recent months, giving him even more time to focus on his boxing career, which is quickly soaring to new heights.

Under the direction of head trainer Peter Manfredo Sr., Falowo fought his first six-round bout at Twin River in March, beating Artis unanimously, 59-55, 59-55, 58-56. His previous win was a four-round unanimous decision against underrated veteran Borngod Washington, which, at the time, was the toughest fight of Falowo’s career. Each victory has doubled as a learned experience.

“You discover something new each time,” Falowo said. “It’s a little different when you’re actually mixing it up with your opponent. You learn a lot about yourself endurance-wise.

“The experience was definitely a positive. [Artis] was strong, and it felt good to get hit with a couple of shots. I felt like it bettered me. I actually felt better in the six-rounder than I did in some of my earlier fights. I broke through my initial tiredness and got my second wind.”

After this next fight, which will be Falowo’s second six-rounder, he and Burchfield will contemplate Falowo’s next step. Having begun his amateur career around the same time fellow Rhode Islanders Jason Estrada and Matt Godfrey turned pro, Falowo has learned a lot about the maturation procession both in and outside the ring, so he’s plotting each move carefully.

“I’m still feeling things out as far as rounds go,” Falowo said. “We’ll see what happens. Maybe we’ll take it up to eight soon. I’m kind of mapping everything out and just going by how I feel.

“My endurance has gotten a lot better through training,” he continued. “I added an extra couple of rounds on the heavy bag, and instead of doing my normal four or five rounds sparring, I’m making sure I get six in a row no matter what. Before, I might do four straight, and then get two here or one there. Now I get six, and then maybe come back for two more. It helps mentally. It makes a big difference.”

The eight-round main event of “Up For Grabs” features Vladine Biosse (12-1-1, 6 KOs), dubbed “Mr. Providence” due to his strong following in Rhode Island’s capital city, defending his New England Super Middleweight Title against Providence’s Joey “K.O. Kid” Spina (26-2-2, 18 KOs). Unbeaten Burlington, Vt., super middleweight Kevin Cobbs (3-0, 1 KO) will face veteran Borngod Washington (3-10, 1 KO) of Queens, N.Y., in a four-round bout while female bantamweight Shelito Vincent (2-0) of Providence will battle newcomer Carmen Cruz of Fort Myers, Fla., in a four-round bout.

CES will also introduce another one of its most recent signings on May 24th when undefeated Medford, Oreg., heavyweight “Irish” Mike Wilson (5-0, 3 KOs) returns to the ring for the first time in 18 months in a four-round bout.

Super lightweight Zack Ramsey, a former national amateur champion from Springfield, Mass., will make his long-awaited debut against Providence’s Alan Beeman (0-1), while fan-favorite Richard “Bobo The Bull” Starnino (9-7-2, 2 KOs) of Providence will now face Harwich, Mass., native Paul Gonsalves (3-2, 3 KOs) in a six-round light heavyweight bout.

“Up For Grabs” also features the return of former reality television star Richard Gingras (11-2, 7 KOs) of “The Contender,” who, after signing a promotional agreement with Classic Entertainment & Sports, will battle Terrance Smith Jr. (7-13-2, 4 KOs) of Oklahoma City in the six-round cruiserweight special attraction.

Woonsocket, R.I., middleweight Joe Gardner (8-4, 1 KO) will face Julio Garcia (4-3, 3 KOs) of Rincon, Puerto Rico in a four-round bout, while light heavyweight Alex Amparo (3-0, 2 KOs) of Providence and welterweight Diego Pereira (6-0-1, 2 KOs) of Pawtucket will be featured in separate four- and six-round bouts, respectively.

Tickets for “Up For Grabs” are $35.00, $50.00, $75.00 and $125.00 (VIP) and can be purchased by calling CES at 401.724.2253/2254, online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at the Players Club booth at Twin River, or through any TicketMaster location. Doors open 6 p.m. with the first bout scheduled for 7.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Up For Grabs.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and must enter through the West entrance.)

Jones V Brook!

Team Jones Thrilled About Brook Fight.

When IBF #3 rated welterweight and USBA champion Carson Jones challenged undefeated Kell Brook, he wasn’t sure if the highly-touted Brit would accept.

Brook, 27-0 (18 KO’s), set his sights on newly-crowned WBA champion Paulie Malignaggi or the winner of the upcoming Mike Jones-Randall Bailey IBF championship match, but neither bout would be immediately available. Although he initially attempted to leapfrog Jones into a title shot, Brook, IBF #5, ultimately agreed to face him Saturday, July 7 in an elimination bout at the Motorpoint Arena in Sheffield, United Kingdom.

Widely regarded as the most dangerous contender in the 147 lb division, Jones, 34-8-2 (24 KO’s), is on a tear during the last three years, compiling a 17-1-1 record against strong opposition. His victims include 2000 Olympic Silver Medalist Ricardo Williams (19-2), record breaking knockout artist Tyrone Brunson (21-0-1), Michi Munoz (21-2), Jason LeHoullier (21-2-1), Michael Clark (41-5-1) and Said Ouali (28-3).

Jones, who went from being an opponent to a bonafied contender and stopped all of the aforementioned foes, is fully confident that he’ll have his way with Brook.

“He is in my way of a world title shot,” said the 25-year-old Oklahoma City, OK native. He’ll have to kill me to beat me and I’m not even sure if that’ll get the job done! I’ll be pressuring him from the opening bell and I think the knockout will come.”

Jones also dismissed all of the hype surrounding Brook.

“He is a decent fighter but should change his name from “Special K” to “Decent K” nothing about him stands out. I’ve already beaten guys in their hometowns and Kell hasn’t fought anybody as good as me. I’m going to expose him!”

“We’re extremely excited about this fight and this is a huge moment for HD Boxing,” said Chris Hastings, President of HD Boxing Promotions, Jones’ promoter. “Carson is 8-0 with 8 knockouts since moving down to welterweight and he will be the IBF welterweight champion in the future without question. We’re excited to take on all-comers. The top guys should all watch out!”

Fans can keep up with Jones by going to www.facebook.com/carson.jones.77 or Hdboxing.net.

Shootout At Texas Station!

Press Conference Quotes And Weights.

The press conference and weigh-in were held today for "Shootout at Texas Station" the exciting night of professional boxing presented by Warriors Boxing, tomorrow, Friday, May 11, at Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel in Las Vegas and telecast live on ShoBox: The New Generation (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

All fighters made weight on their first attempts.

In the ShoBox main event, former Cuban amateur standout and 2004 Olympian Yudel Jhonson (12-0, 8 KOs) of Miami, Florida, will take on Willie "The Great'' Nelson (17-1-1, 11 KOs), of Youngstown, Ohio, in a 10-round junior middleweight bout.

The co-featured bout will match six-time Swedish national champion and 2008 Olympian, Badou Jack (10-0, 8 KOs), of Las Vegas and Alexander Brand (17-0, 15 KOs) of Bogota, Colombia, in an eight-round super middleweight bout.

Off TV, headlining the undercard, undefeated Cuban American Rances "Kid Blast" Barthelemy (15-0, 11 Kos) will now face Denmark, via Nigeria's Robert "Super" Osiobe (11-4, 6 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight battle.

Puerto Rican super middleweight prospect Roberto Jose Acevedo (3-0, 2 KOs) will meet Martinez Sharod Porter (1-1) of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in a four-round preliminary bout.

Carlos Reyes 178 lbs
NAYunieski Gonzalez 178 lbs.

William Mitch Williams 183 lbs.
Carlos Gaytan 180 lbs.

Roberto Jose Acevedo 163 lbs.
Martinez Porter 163 lbs.

Badou Jack 167 lbs.
Alexander Brand 166.5 lbs.

Yudel Jhonson 151.5 lbs.
Willie Nelson 151.5 lbs.

Rances Barthelemy 131 lbs.
Robert Osiobe 131 lbs.

Jesús Gutiérrez 136.5 lbs.
Jimmy Jones 137 lbs.

Kelly McClellan, Director of Marketing, Texas Station:

Thank you for coming out. Thanks to our team and to Showtime for taking the time to broadcast in our beautiful facility. See you all on fight night. Thank you.

Leon Margules, President Warriors Boxing:

We're thrilled to be back here a t Texas Station. Thanks to all the people who have helped us put this together and to the Showtime team for putting this great event on Showtime. We have a terrific show here and they will all be terrific fights.

We originally were putting on a tripleheader but then Rances Barthelemy's opponent fell out and it was reduced to a doubleheader. We ended up finding an opponent just as good, but by then it was decided. Rances Barthelemy is fighting a guy who has never been off his feet who is 11-4. We believe he is the class of 130 lbs. He was fantastic against Hylon Williams.

Rances Barthelemy:

Thanks to all the promoters and my team, Miguel Diaz is doing a great job as at trainer. This time I will put on a great show, just like last time.

Roberto Jose Acevedo:

This sport is so hard and I work very hard for all my fights. I want to give my best in all my fights. I have sacrificed a lot and I will not stop until I become one of the best. Thank you.

Sampson Lewkowicz (Sampson Boxing):

As you saw three weeks ago with Javier Fortuna, you will see the same with Alexander Brand. Maybe not in the first round, but whenever you see me in any corner, the fighter is coming to fight.

My guy had 400 amateur fights. (To Badou Jack, Brand's opponent) When you were born, my guy already had gloves on. He's still young and doesn't abuse himself. Tomorrow you will see what my fighter can do.

All my fighters have been trained by the best trainer money can buy, Pable Sarmiento, the same trainer as Sergio Martinez. Good luck Jack!

Pablo Sarmiento (Brand Trainer):

Every time we train, we get better. Tomorrow will be an excellent show and we will walk away with the victory.

Alexander Brand:

"This is only the beginning. I will definitely be victorious tomorrow night. He talked too much before the fight. He never beat anyone, so why is he talking like a world champ?

"I'm going to shut his big mouth."

Eddie Mustafa Muhammad (trainer of Badou Jack, to Alexander Brand and his team):

Let me tell you what's going to happen. We're going to tax that ass. I can't wait. I aint gonna say no more. You better have on your best running sneakers. I wish I could speak Spanish I would tell you exactly how I feel.

Badou Jack:

"Thanks to my promoters and SHOWTIME for this opportunity. I can't wait for the fight. I wish it was today. I will win by a knockout. He's in with a real fighter now. You could tell he was nervous.

"I'm going to beat him up tomorrow night.''

Jack Loew (Willie Nelson trainer):

I think they've underestimated Willie. I've watched Yudel fight and he's nothing special. They brought a group of guys over form Cuba and if I had to pick one we got the best of the group to fight.

I know he was scheduled to fight somebody else, but we were supposed to fight somebody else too, so we're in shape.

We look forward to the knocking this kid off. I think it'll be exciting, but they have highly underestimated Willie Nelson. We're looking forward to a big victory tomorrow night. Thank you.

Willie Nelson:

"I want to thank everybody for coming to this fight. The only thing I can say is Yudel is a great fighter, but I'm better. Tomorrow night I will be the better man.

"I'm not taking anything away from him, but I will win. Watch tomorrow night.''

Luis DeCubas (Blue Wave Group):

He said of all the Cubans who came over he was the easiest one? Yudel is one of the best 154-lb fighters in the world and he'll show it tomorrow.

I give Willie credit for taking the fight. We had to come down in weight a little.

(To Willie Nelson) We couldn't find anyone to fight Yudel, so I'm impressed you took the fright. I've seen Willie fight many times and he's a great fighter. It promises to be a great fight and a great card.

Ismael Salas:

Thanks everyone for coming out. I thank Willie Nelson for taking the fight. I'm not much for talking. My fighters do their talking in the ring.

Luis DeCubas Jr. (Blue Wave Group):

He picked the wrong Cuban. Willie is in for a big surprise.

Yudel Jhonson:

"Thank you to the United States for the freedom to fight professionally. Thanks to SHOWTIME for making me able to show my talents. I'm in great condition. I'm in the best shape I've ever been in and I had the best training camp of my career.

"This is a great opportunity and I won't let it pass me by. I'm dedicating this fight to all the mothers in the world, especially my mother in Cuba."

Tickets for "Shootout at Texas Station" are on sale now, priced at $27 and $52 and are available at Ticketmaster, any Texas Station rewards center or at SCLV.COM/CONCERTS. A few VIP seats are available at a price of $102 can be purchased by calling (954) 985-1155.

On fight night, doors open at 6:30 and the action starts at 7:00 pm.

Station Bucks may be used to purchase tickets. All ages welcome. Under 21 must be accompanied by an adult 21 or over. Show subject to change without notice. Management reserves all rights. Digital Photography and video prohibited. Tickets can be purchased at any Station Casinos Boarding Pass Rewards Center, The Fiesta's, by logging onto stationcasinos.com/concerts or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel is located at 2101 Texas Star Lane in North Las Vegas. Telephone: (702) 631-1000 or (800) 654-8888.

McGuinness V Major!

THIS SATURDAY NIGHT, MAY 12TH AT THE HERSHEY CENTRE.

24 year-old NABA Super Featherweight champion, LOGAN COTTON McGUINNESS (16-0-1, 8 KO’s), has handled the potentially treacherous transition from boxing prospect to boxing contender with brutal flair.

No longer simply punishing foes while honing his craft, Orangeville’s McGuinness has spent the past two years winning boxing’s hardened critics over with career-best efforts in a succession of fights put forth by promoter Hennessy Sports designed to test his will, as opposed to merely showcasing his skills.

As a result McGuinness has honed his style into a well-rounded blend of polish, poise, and power, combining nimble footwork, fluid combinations, and a crowd-pleasing style, all with fight-ending force.

All of those attributes were there for the world to see last October at the Hershey Centre in Mississauga, when McGuinness took the biggest step of his professional career, dropping down from 135 to take on one of the best pure boxers in the world, former world title challenger Benoit Gaudet for the vacant NABA 130 lb. title.

Despite being behind on the judges score cards throughout the first half of the fight, McGuinness was nonetheless unyielding in applying pressure from the opening bell, and finally got to Gaudet in round 11, staggering him along the ropes before flooring the renowned veteran for the count.

Now a full fledged contender on the world boxing scene (WBA’s 8th ranked Super Featherweight) McGuinness has to prove once again that he belongs in the shortlist of top fighters at 130 lbs. when he defends his title against Buffalo, New York’s KO merchant MEACHER "MAJOR PAIN" MAJOR (20-4-1, 17 KO’s) in the main event of SEE THEE RISE, another stellar boxing card promoted by United Promotions and Hennessy Sports this Saturday, May 12th at the Hershey Centre in Mississauga.

After being stopped by rock-fisted veteran Dorin Spivey in November of 2009, Meacher has rebounded in devastating fashion, notching stoppages in three of his four consecutive wins heading into the battle with McGuinness.

Wielding a blazing two-fisted arsenal, and a track record of facing some of the best in business, including a decision loss to pound-for-pound entrant Lamont Peterson in August of 2005, Meacher’s hand speed and unique punching angles make him a bonafide threat to end McGuinness’ undefeated run, and NABA tile reign.

It’s the kind of challenge that separates prospects from suspects, and contenders from pretenders. And it’s one that McGuinness must overcome to maintain his status as one of boxing’s true young lions.

Such is life on the road to boxing excellence.

STACKED UNDERCARD:

Saturday's card features a huge lineup of some of Canada's best undefeated prospects.

Undefeated Canadian Welterweight Champion and fan favorite SAMUEL VARGAS (10-0-1, 4KO) will once again step into the ring in what is sure to be another crowd-pleasing performance as he takes on the veteran spoiler ARVYDAS TRIZNO in a six round welterweight battle. Vargas is fighting for the third time already in 2012, coming a huge 1st round stoppage over highly rated prospect Manolis Plaitis to win the title in February and a 5th round TKO over Ferenc Zold only 3 weeks later.

Trizno, a true road warrior, has fought 18 times in the past 12 months against top notch opposition, going the distance in a tough battle with former WBC World Champion Junior Witter and dropping a highly disputed split decision to undefeated Rory Coveney.

Undefeated Cruiserweight prospect and former Canadaian Amateur Champion DENTON DALEY (5-0, 2KO) of Kitchener, ON, moves up to his first scheduled eight-round bout versus the always dangerous former Cruiserweight title challenger FRANK WHITE (7-6-2, 5KO).

Fan favorite BRANDON “BAD BOY” COOK (5-0, 2 KOs) faces ZOLTAN SURMAN in a six-round middleweight fight.

STEVEN WILCOX (1-0, 1 KO), a lightweight from Hamilton, Ontario who is the oldest of five fighting Wilcox brothers at their father’s Steeltown Boxing Club, meets DAVID AUCOIN (2-5, 1 KO) in a scheduled four rounder.

Junior middleweight Junmar Emon, of Toronto, makes his pro debut in a four-rounder against Hamilton’s Daryl Peron (0-1), and DILLON CARMAN takes on MATT WHITE in a 4 round Heavyweight contest. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets, starting at $30.00 are still available through Ticketmaster at (855) 985-5000 or ticketmaster.ca, and additional tickets allocated for walk-up traffic have just been released at the Hershey Centre Box Office.

Go on line at www.unitedpromotions.ca for more information.

LOCKED N' LOADED!

WEIGHTS.

Tomorrow evening Thompson Boxing Promotions returns with the "Locked and Loaded" series at Doubletree Hotel in the city of Ontario,California.

The main event will showcase East L.A.'s rough and tough Aron "El Asesino" Martinez (16-1-1, 3 KOs) locking horns with Joshua "Superman" Marks (8-3, 8 KOs) in an eight round welterweight collision.

In a battle for country pride, the semi-main event features Colombia's undefeated #10 WBA, #10 IBF, #5 WBO, Jhonatan "Momo" Romero (20-0, 12 KOs) taking on Mexico's veteran warrior Adolfo Landeros (20-23-2, 10 KOs) in a junior featherweight match up.

Opening for the featured events, female fighters Sindy "La Alacrana" Amador (7-0,1 KOs) and Amaris "Diamond Girl" Quintana (6-0-2, 1 KO) will wage war in a six round flyweight bout.

Tickets for "LOCKED N' LOADED" are priced at $75, $45, and $30. They are available now and may be purchased by calling 714-935-0900.

Bouts subject to change. Doors open at 6:30 pm, and the first bell rings at 7:30 pm. The Doubletree Hotel is located at 222 North Vineyard Avenue in Ontario. The hotel phone number is 909-937-0900.

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS

Aron Martinez - 146.5 lbs.
Joshua Marks - 148 lbs.

Adolfo Landeros - 124 lbs.
Jhonathan Romero - 123 lbs.

Sindy Amador - 106 lbs.
Amaris Quintana - 108 lbs.

Rigoberto Flores - 143.5 lbs.
Pedro Arcos - 144 lbs.

Sergio Nuñez - 134 lbs.
Ramon Flores - 135 lbs.

Juan Reyes - 120.5 lbs.
Pablo Cupul - 120.5 lbs.

Isaac Zarate - 118.5 lbs.
Gustavo Rojas - 118.5 lbs.

Diaz V Sanchez!

Battle At The Boat 87.

Junior lightweight prospect Joel Diaz will look to take another step in the right direction when he battles Guillermo Sanchez Saturday, June 2 in the main event of “Battle at the Boat 87.”

The card is promoted by Halquist Productions and takes place at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, WA. Tickets start at $25 and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets or by visiting the EQC box office.

The hard-hitting Diaz is a perfect 9-0 with 8 KO’s as a professional and is one of the top young talents on the west coast. On January 20, 2012, Diaz stopped previously unbeaten Guy Robb in seven rounds on ShoBox: The New Generation. In his most recent bout, the 20-year-old Palmdale, CA native battered veteran Yogli Herrera, forcing him to quit on his stool after four rounds.

Rough, tough and battle tested, Sanchez’ resume speaks for itself. The Puerto Rican shared the squared circle with world champion Adrien Broner, contender Edner Cherry and undefeated prospects Mark Davis and Ronny Rios. Dubbed as “The Vampire,” Sanchez, 13-6-1 (5 KO’s), twice won bouts in the backyard of previously unbeaten opponents, outpointing Rod Salka and Eddie Irizarry.

Diaz-Sanchez is scheduled for ten rounds.

Retired Marine and crowd favorite Nate Serrano, 4-1 (1 KO), of Yakima, WA will look to win his second straight bout when he challenges Portland, OR’s Osvaldo Rojas in a six round welterweight contest. Serrano’s fresh off a dramatic second round stoppage of Nicholas Balestra while Rojas, 6-2-1 (2 KO’s), makes his first start since 2010.

Also appearing on the undercard is Canadian sensation Sarah Pucek against an opponent to be named. Other undercard bouts will be announced shortly.

Doors open at 6 pm and the opening bell is scheduled for 7.

Battle Of The Badges 4!

FDNY V N.E. Law Enforcement.

Sports and entertainment celebrities are coming out May 19 to show their support for "Battle of the Badges 4," featuring amateur boxers representing the nationally-acclaimed New York City Fire Department Boxing Team ("FDNY") against a New England Law Enforcement ("Team N.E.") squad, at Fox Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut.

"Battle of the Badges 4" ("BOB4") is presented by National Public Safety Athletic League ("NPSAL") in association with the FDNY Boxing Bravest, Mass Corrections Officers Federated Union Boxing Team (MCOFU) and Foxwoods Resort Casino. Defending champion Team N.E. trails FDNY in the series, 2-1.

Five world champion boxers and two former world title challengers join a three-time Super Bowl champion, the funniest man of the planet, one of the hottest singers in the country, and a popular Boston newscaster at BOB4.

World champion boxers lending their support to BOB4 are two-time (2001-2003, 2004-2005) World Boxing Association ("WBA") Heavyweight Champion John "The Quietman" Ruiz, of Chelsea (MA), the first and only world heavyweight champion of Latino heritage; World Welterweight Champion (1955) Tony "The Pride of Fleet" Street" DeMarco, from Boston's famed North End, who recently wrote his biography, "Memoirs of a Boxing Champion"; WBA & World Boxing Council ("WBC") (1979) Middleweight Champion Vito Antuofermo, of Brooklyn; WBA Welterweight (2003-2005) & Light Middleweight (2006-2007) Champion Jose Antonio "El Gallo" Rivera, of Worcester (MA); International Boxing Organization ("IBO" Middleweight Champion (2010) Peter Manfredo, Jr., of Providence.

Other prizefighters committed to attending BOB4 include former world light welterweight (1976) title challenger Tony Petronelli, of Brockton (MA); former IBO world light heavyweight title challenger (1998) John "Iceman" Scully, of Hartford, who was chief second for "Bad" Chad Dawson in his recent WBC light heavyweight title-winning performance against Bernard Hopkins; 1991 New England Heavyweight Champion Paul Poirer, of New Bedford (MA).

Former New England Patriots offensive lineman Joe Andruzzi, who owns three Super Bowl rings, will be in the house with his family. He has three brothers that are members of the FDNY who responded to the 9/11/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Joe is a cancer survivor who established the Joe Andruzzi Foundation.

Also making BOB4 appearances are comedian extraordinaire, Lenny Clarke, star-in-the-making singer James Massone, who competed in the television show, "The Voice," as well as popular WCVB (#5) newscaster in Boston, Michelle McPhee.

The world renowned FDNY bagpipers will also be involved in festivities.

"We're so grateful for having these celebrities, who not only are supporting our event, but will be there to meet-and-greet fans," BOB4 spokesperson Denis Marrese said. "Everyone will have a great time watching entertaining boxing matches and mixing with these stars. It's all about helping raising funds for Work Vessels For Veterans, NPSAL and FDNY Boxing Bravest in order for these great charities to continue doing their tremendous charity work."

Proceeds from the May 19th charitable event will benefit Work Vessels For Veterans, NPSAL and FDNY Boxing Bravest Team. More than a dozen matches are scheduled pitting FDNY against Team New England, which is primarily comprised of MCOFU boxers.

Tickets, priced at $30.00 (general admission), $50.00 (reserved seating) and $100.00 (VIP/Ringside), are available to purchase at the Foxwoods Box Office, on line at www.foxwoods.com or www.Ticketmaster.com, by calling 1-855-660-6606 04 1-800.200.2882, or at any Ticketmaster outlet.

Doors open at 6:30 PM/ET with the first match scheduled to start at 7:30 PM/ET.

Go to www.BattleoftheBadges.info or www.foxwoods.com for additional information.

Viloria V Romero III!

PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES.

The final press conference for Saturday night's "Island Assault 4: The Battle" pay-per-view-event, featuring Brian "Hawaiian Punch" Viloria vs. Omar Nino Romero III, live from Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City, Metro Manila, Philippines.

"Island Assault 4:The Battle," presented by Solar Sports, is being distributed in the United States by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9:00 PM/ET - 6:00 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, DISH Network and Avail-TVN for a suggested retail price of only $29.95. "Island Assault 4: The Battle" will also be available in Canada to Super Channel subscribers. For on-line PPV viewers go to Ustream.tv at http://www.ustream.tv/integratedsportsppv.

Three-time world champion Viloria (30-3, 16 KOs), a 2000 U.S. Olympian, defends his "WBO" title belt against two-time world title-holder Romero (31-4-2, 13 KOs) in the 12-round main event. Viloria won his first 20 pro fights, until he lost the World Boxing Council ("WBC") light flyweight championship to Romero by way of a 12-round unanimous decision in 2006. Three months later, their rematch ended in a draw that was later changed to a "no contest" when Romero failed a post-fight drug test.

The 10-round co-feature matches a pair of former world champions, Julio Cesar "Pingo" Miranda (37-6-1, 29 KOs) and Rodel "Kid Rapido" Mayol (30-5-2, 22 KOs), in a 10-round bout with future world flyweight title fight implications. Miranda, rated No. 3 by the WBO and No. 4 by the World Boxing Association ("WBA"), is a Mexican knockout specialist who dropped his WBO title fight last year to Viloria. WBC No. 9 and IBF #12 Mayol, a Filipino now living in Los Angeles, lost his WBC Light Flyweight crown, ironically, to Romero in 2010.

Filling out the PPV card is the next wave of Filipino prospects: Robert "Battlin' Bert" Udtuhan (17-1-1, 13 KOs) faces Alvin Makiling (9-4-1, 2 KOs) in a 12-round match for the Interim WBO Asia-Pacific Bantamweight Championship; undefeated featherweight Jun "Chainsaw" Doliguez (11-0, & KOs) fights veteran Jonel "Mulawin" Alibio (16-13-2, 8 KOs) in a special 10-round Featherweight Attraction.

Press Conference Quotes (Taken from excerpts in The Philippine Star, Manila Standard Today and Pang-Masa.)

Brian Viloria: "There'll be no single boring round."

"I just have to put the combinations together."

"I can weigh in right now and make the weight."

I've trained harder than before and it's going to show Sunday. Expect fireworks."

I really, really trained myself very hard for this fight. This is personal on my part. I want to five fans a good fight."

"This is it. This third fight is happening because it gives me an opportunity to bounce back from the first two fights."

Omar Nino Romero: "He has turned into a great fighter."

For more information about the "Island Assault 4: The Battle" PPV event go to www.integratedsportsnet.com. Follow Integrated Sports Media on Twitter @IntegratedPPV.

Bailey V Jones!

Bailey's Bombs Still Explode.

For the past few years, two-time world champion Randall "The Knockout King" Bailey has been one of the most avoided boxers in the world, largely due to his awesome punching power, which has put 36 of his 42 victims to sleep.

The ageless Floridian gets an overdue opportunity on June 9 to capture his third world title as he takes on Mike Jones for the vacant International Boxing Federation ("IBF") Welterweight Championship, in the 12-round co-feature on the Manny Pacquiao-Timothy Bradley pay-per-view card, live from MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

"I just kept my fingers crossed and left things to my manager (Si Stern) and promoter (Lou DiBella)," remarked the highly respected Bailey while speaking about being avoided. "Guys claimed that they were fighting me but when it came time to sign a contract, they turned down fights. I feel that nobody wants to take a chance fighting me. I have to keep winning the right fights like this one and eventually the really big fights will happen."

IBF #1 contender Jones (26-0, 19 KOs) passed on one opportunity to fight IBF #2 Bailey (42-7, 36 KOs), who earned his way into a mandatory title fight by stopping Jackson Osei Bonsu in the first round of their March 19, 2010, IBF title eliminator in Belgium.

"We went down the list for that eliminator," Bailey explained, "and Jones was ranked ahead of Bonsu but he (Jones) turned down the fight. Now, he's in a position where he doesn't have a choice but to fight me.

"In my head, he's a dangerous puncher, and that's how I'm training, like he's the toughest guy I've ever fought. By doing that, I'll be prepared for whatever he brings into the ring. I'm working the hardest I can for what he's bringing on June 9th. There won't be any surprises."

Randall won his first 21 pro fights, all by knockout, including his World Boxing Organization ("WBO") light welterweight title-winning performance against Carlos Gonzalez in 1999. Two successful title defenses followed for Randall against Hector Lopez and Rocky Martinez. Bailey stopped Demetrio Ceballos in the third round to become the Interim World Boxing Association ("WBA") Light Welterweight Champion in 2002.

"I never hit (in terms of mainstream popularity) when I was world champion," Randall promised, "and I will have that same attitude but, first, I need to beat Mike Jones."

Arguably the most powerful pound-for-pound puncher in the world, in addition to Bonsu, Martinez, Ceballos and Lopez, Bailey has also stopped Juan Polo Perez, Harrison Cuello, Frankie Figueroa, Santos Pakau, Anthony Mora and Juan Polo Perez.

"I most definitely know when I hit my opponent right," Bailey remarked. "I didn't really have to do too much earlier in my career because I was fighting at 140 pounds and weighted 146 walking around. I'd get calls to fight, only two weeks in advance, and take it because I wouldn't have trouble losing weight. I was young with energy to spare. Knockouts came a lot easier for me back then. I was like a bull back then, going forward throwing bombs and looking to knock out guys. Now, I'm more patient, letting my opponents make mistakes and then capitalizing. That's what patience is all about; they run into my bomb. When I hit somebody right, I pretty much know what the outcome will be. I believe I have the power to put anybody's lights out if I hit them clean."

Gingras Survives Against All Odds!

No Quit In His Game.

Two weeks from now, 31-year-old cruiserweight Rich Gingras will step inside the ring for just the second time in three years, continuing his improbable comeback while balancing fatherhood and running a business.

Long odds, no doubt, but nothing too strenuous for Gingras, who’s overcome far more difficult obstacles on his unconventional path to stardom, a tumultuous past he’s learned to embrace rather than try to run from.

“Everything I’ve been through,” he says, “has made me into who I am today.”

A former contestant on “The Contender” reality television series, Gingras (11-2, 7 KOs) will face Terrance Smith (7-13-2, 4 KOs) in the six-round special attraction of Jimmy Burchfield’s “Up For Grabs” professional boxing event Thursday, May 24th, 2012 at the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, R.I.

He’s engaged now, with the wedding scheduled for November, and he has more than 230 clients as the owner of Fight 2 Fitness, a world-class group fitness and boxing studio in downtown Pawtucket. He’s also under the promotional guidance of Burchfield, who is working to bring his career to new heights, and his third child, Wesley, will celebrate his first birthday in June.

Life is good, but there are still harsh realities Gingras can’t shake, the realities of growing up in a lower-class family with no positive role models to teach him the difference between right and wrong – a lesson Gingras often learned the hard way, either unintentionally or through his own wrongdoing.

Born in Concord, Mass., Gingras had few friends growing up while his family moved from city to city in New England, including stops in Newton, Waltham and Billerica before leaving Massachusetts and settling in New Hampshire prior to Gingras’ teenage years.

“I just didn’t really care about investing time in anyone because I knew I wouldn’t be around long enough,” Gingras said.

At the age of 9, shortly after his parents divorced, Gingras learned his father, Wilford, had contracted HIV through a heroine needle. The reality didn’t set in until Gingras began reading about the severity of the disease in school.

“He disappeared for a year and a half,” Gingras recalled. “He got real depressed and tried to kill himself.”

Around the same time, Gingras also became the victim of sexual abuse by a male employee at the Boys & Girls Club in Watertown, which remained a secret for nearly three years until one his teachers discovered it while thumbing through Gingras’ journal.

“He told me if anyone found out, something bad would happen to my family,” Gingras said. “I was scared.”

The abuse, both physically and mentally, took its toll on Gingras. Within four years of contracting HIV, his father passed away, and Gingras began drifting further off course in school and at home. He frequently got into fights – “I never started them, but I won them all,” he boasts – and his grades slipped. When his eighth-grade teacher told him he couldn’t play football if his grades didn’t improve, Gingras decided he was done with school.

“That’s the only reason I was going to school to begin with,” he said. “I’d rather go out and smoke some weed, mess around a little, and act like an adult.”

Shortly thereafter, Gingras came face-to-face with real, adult responsibilities when he conceived his first child at the age of 16. Richard Gingras Jr. was born with Arthrogryposis, a rare congenital disorder characterized by multiple joint contractures.

“He had club feet, and he couldn’t bend his elbows,” Gingras said. “His toes touched the bottom of his feet. That’s how badly his feet were curled up.

“The funny thing is when my girlfriend was pregnant, I kept telling my friends, ‘This kid is going to be a bad-ass!’ so it’s ironic that when he came out he wasn’t able to bend his elbows.”

By then, Gingras’ mother had remarried, and Gingras had moved out on his own, staying at random friends’ houses – “couch-hopping,” as he called it.

“My parents had rules, and I didn’t want to follow them,” he said. “I was 16 going on 30. I wanted to have fun. I didn’t want to come home at nine o’clock. I was into making babies and getting high.”

The youngest of four children – three boys, and one girl – Gingras didn’t receive much guidance from his siblings. His oldest brother, Christopher, now 40, served as a father figure, but often encouraged Gingras to solve problems with his fists.

“One day at the park, some kid took my swing set and he said, ‘Rich, don’t take that [stuff]. Kick his ass!’” Gingras said. “I didn’t want to. I started crying and he made me go over there and beat the kid up. I was always gentle, but I could fight.”

The pressure of fatherhood at a young age ultimately got the best of Gingras, who left the mother of his child shortly after the pregnancy and began hitting the streets while his son spent the better part of his infancy in therapy.

Trouble soon followed – more drinking, more fights, and, shortly thereafter, a 30-day jail sentence at the age of 17 for possession of a narcotic (marijuana).

Would that be the turning point in Gingras’ life?

“Hell no,” he said. “I got into fights in jail, too. They were feeding me constantly. I fattened right up. It was like a vacation. I wasn’t too worried about it.

“Nothing really scared me at that moment.”

Shorty after his release, Gingras met another girl, conceived another child at the age of 19, and then fled to Albany, N.Y., for a year to dodge the police – they had a warrant out for his arrest on a separate assault charge – while the soon-to-be mother attended school.

The law eventually caught up with Gingras again during a brief visit back home in New Hampshire. One night, Gingras got so high he started a fistfight and then broke into the victim’s home, inadvertently cutting his arm and leaving a blood stain on the wall. A year later, the police matched the DNA and nabbed Gingras for burglary, resulting in a one-year sentence.

The second stint behind bars helped Gingras reunite with his son, who visited frequently, but Gingras continued to move in the wrong direction even while on parole.

“I was starting to play a role in his life, but I was still living a crappy lifestyle,” he said. “I was on parole for five years, yet I’d serve a month here, two months there – all in all, I spent two and a half years of my life in jail.

“One day I’m in there and I was like, ‘What the hell am I doing? I’ve got to cut this out.’”

At the age of 21, Gingras finally began turning his life around. He gained full custody of his son while his daughter, Jada, continued to live with her mother in Albany. Struggling with what he referred to as the “transition from being a bad-ass to a good person,” Gingras found new ways to pass the time; one night, he attended a local amateur boxing show in New Hampshire.

“I thought to myself, ‘I could do this! I could beat the crap out of every one of these guys,’” he said.

He decided to start training at a gym in Claremont, a community center where boxing was so foreign they hung heavy bags on a set of chains from the basketball rims.

“They didn’t even have a ring,” Gingras said.

That following day, he smoked his last cigarette, flicked it on the ground and stepped foot inside the gym, where he met his first boxing coach, Ed Farris, now the manager of undefeated middleweight prospect Demetrius Andrade.

Farris guided Gingras through an improbable, yet wildly successful, amateur career in which Gingras won the Vermont Golden Gloves Tournament as a heavyweight, captured two Rocky Marciano Tournament titles and advanced to the Ringside World National Championships in Kansas City.

“Boxing is such a small community, but no one knew who the hell I was at the time,” Gingras said. “Everyone was overlooking me. I didn’t even have a uniform. I walked in there with Nike shorts and a white tank top, but I blasted everyone out.

“No one could get past the second round with me.”

Once the word got out, Gingras had a hard time finding opponents willing to face him in the amateurs, so he made his professional debut in 2006 at the age of 25. Having outgrown the outdated facilities in New Hampshire, he began working with trainer Peter Manfredo Sr. in Pawtucket, driving six hours each day, five days per week, sometimes even sleeping in the parking lot between trips.

At 9-0 with five knockouts, Gingras embarked on the opportunity of a lifetime when “The Contender” recruited him to compete in its cruiserweight tournament in Singapore in 2008. Though he lost his first and only fight on the show to then-unbeaten prospect Deon Elam, a fight in which Gingras knocked his opponent to the canvas, Gingras won the fan vote based on his popularity and was invited to the series’ finale the following year at Foxwoods Resort Casino. He lost that fight, too, a unanimous decision against undefeated Ryan Coyne.

“It gave me a lot of experience,” Gingras said. “It put me in an uncomfortable situation being the smallest guy with the least amount of experience. It was like [reality television series] ‘The Real World,’ except we were fighting. No cameras, no TVs – it was a surreal, stressful situation.”

With two losses under his belt, Gingras’ career plateaued.

“The money sucked, and people wanted me to fight out of town,” he said. “I needed to take a step back. I was 28 now. I asked myself, ‘What’s my backup plan?’

He found the answer working at LA Boxing in North Attleboro, Mass., where he became the head trainer within two years and met his current fiancé, Alyssa.

“The wheels in my head began spinning,” he said. “I thought, ‘I should make a living out of this!’”

By the time LA Boxing closed its doors for good in 2011, Gingras celebrated the grand opening of Fight 2 Fitness. Several days later, his fiancé gave birth to their first child – Gingras’ third. The gym broke even within three months and began turning a profit shortly thereafter, an “unbelievable” turn of events, according to Gingras, given the current state of the economy.

“Most people think I have this college education because I own my own business,” he said, “but the last grade I completed was eighth grade. I was in special education classes my whole life. I’m pretty much self-made.”

Through it all, he never lost his desire to fight.

“I told Alyssa as soon as the gym can sustain itself I’m getting back in the ring,” he said. “She supported me all the way. I didn’t stop fighting because I wanted to; I felt I needed something to fall back on. Boxing is a difficult sport to raise a family in. Someday, you won’t be able to do it. Then what? You can’t retire at 35. I needed something to keep me moving.”

As promised, Gingras returned to the ring in March, knocking out Adam Harris in the second round of a scheduled six-round fight. He’ll make his CES debut on the 24th at 180 pounds and eventually drop to light heavyweight (175 pounds).

“That’s where I belong,” he said. “I’m 5-foot-10. The guys I’m fighting at 180 are at least six-feet tall. I’m strong at cruiserweight, but why not have a level playing field?”

At 31, the odds may be stacked against Gingras, but it’s hard to doubt anyone who’s already been through so much and overcome so many obstacles. Gingras’ journey is the ultimate rags-to-riches story, the epitome of what we embrace as the American Dream. Given his recent success, it’s quite possible the most compelling chapter of his life has yet to be written.

“Things are going well,” he said. “I work about 70 hours a week, so it’s crazy getting back into the fight game. All my free time is going into training.

“They say you hit your prime around 30. Some days I wake up and say to myself, ‘How the hell am I going to do this today?’ I drive to New Hampshire every weekend to pick up my daughter – 12 hours a week just driving – but I told my fiancé I need to do this before I get old, or else I’ll regret it for the rest of my life.

“Now I’m back in my game. I’m excited about working with Jimmy. He treats his fighters well and has the tools to push my career forward. I’m super happy right now.”

The eight-round main event of “Up For Grabs” features Vladine Biosse (12-1-1, 6 KOs), dubbed “Mr. Providence” due to his strong following in Rhode Island’s capital city, defending his New England Super Middleweight Title against Providence’s Joey “K.O. Kid” Spina (26-2-2, 18 KOs). Unbeaten Burlington, Vt., super middleweight Kevin Cobbs (3-0, 1 KO) will face veteran Borngod Washington (3-10, 1 KO) of Queens, N.Y., in a four-round bout while female bantamweight Shelito Vincent (2-0) of Providence will battle newcomer Carmen Cruz of Fort Myers, Fla., in a four-round bout.

CES will also introduce another one of its most recent signings on May 24th when undefeated Medford, Oreg., heavyweight “Irish” Mike Wilson (5-0, 3 KOs) returns to the ring for the first time in 18 months in a four-round bout.

Super lightweight Zack Ramsey, a former national amateur champion from Springfield, Mass., will make his long-awaited debut against Providence’s Alan Beeman (0-1) while middleweight Thomas Falowo (6-0, 4 KOs) of Pawtucket, R.I., light heavyweight Alex Amparo (3-0, 2 KOs) of Providence, welterweight Diego Pereira (6-0-1, 2 KOs) and Woonsocket, R.I., middleweight Joe Gardner (8-4, 1 KO) will return to the ring in separate six-round bouts, with the exception of Gardner, who’ll fight in a four-rounder.

Tickets for “Up For Grabs” are $35.00, $50.00, $75.00 and $125.00 (VIP) and can be purchased by calling CES at 401.724.2253/2254, online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at the Players Club booth at Twin River, or through any TicketMaster location. Doors open 6 p.m. with the first bout scheduled for 7.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Up For Grabs.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and must enter through the West entrance.)

El-Amin Upsets McCreedy!

Wins USBO Super Middleweight Title.

Shujaa El-Amin - aka Dion Savage (12-3, 6 KOs) - spoiled tonight's "Homecoming" for popular brawler "Irish" Joey McCreedy (13-6-2, 6 KOs), who was fighting in front of his hometown fans for the first time as a professional boxer.

El-Amin, however, dominated the action from the opening round against the game McCreedy, capturing the vacant United States Boxing Organization ("USBO") super middleweight title in the main event at Lowell Memorial Auditorium.

The Flint, Michigan-invader won nine of 10 rounds on two judges' scorecards and swept all 10 on the other.

"I fight for oppressed people all over the world, not myself," El-Amin commented after the fight. "I come from a poor place and want to build-up my city. I'm fighting for my father who has been imprisoned in Illinois for 15 years for a crime he's innocent. We have proof. It's an injustice. His name is Dion Savage, Sr."

"Homecoming" - presented by Chicago Fight Clubs Promotion ("CFC Promotion") -- was the first professional boxing show held in seven years in Lowell, a well-known hotbed for amateur boxing, annually hosting the New England Championships. Lowell is best known as the home of "Irish" Micky Ward and Dicky Eklund, the principal subjects in the award-winning movie, "The Fighter." They worked the corners for McCreedy and his CFC Promotion stable-mate, Sean Eklund (10-4, 2 KOs), who is the nephew of Micky and Dicky.

In the co-feature, Ward-trained light welterweight Sean Eklund (11-4, 2 KOs), also fighting at home in Lowell for the first time as a pro, won a unanimous decision in his first eight-round bout from 22-fight veteran James Ventry.

"I could hear the fans and it was inspirational," the 28-year-old Eklund said after the fight, "but I had to stay within myself. I got wild a few times. I hurt him in the first round and loaded up trying to knock him out. He's a tough kid who has been stopped only twice. I didn't have much amateur experience, so I'm gaining experience now, and have gotten better in each of my last three fights."

Chicago light welterweight Antonio "Aztec God of War" Canas (6-0-1) overcame two third-round knockdowns to remain unbeaten in a six-round majority draw in an entertaining fight with Tyrone Chatman (9-1-2, 6 KOs).

US Marine Jimmy Smith, who did two tours in Iraq, decked Rafael Jusino in the opening round but soon the fight was halted after a cut opened over Jusino's eye from and accidental head-butt. The match was ruled a no contest.

New Jersey middleweight Anthony Jones (1-0-1) won his first pro fight with a unanimous four-round decision over pro-debuting Bernie Ongewe.

McGUINNESS V MAJOR!

FACE-2-FACE THIS FRIDAY.

UNITED PROMOTIONS and HENNESSY SPORTS will hold a public weigh-in and fighter face-off for fans, friends, and the media this Friday afternoon, May 11th, at 1:00PM at THE HERSHEY CENTRE in Mississauga in advance of this Saturday's NABA Super Featherwight Title Clash.

LOGAN COTTON McGUINNESS (CHAMPION)
Orangeville, Ontario
16-0-1 (8 KOs)

MEACHER MAJOR (CHALLENGER)
Buffalo, New York
20-4-1 (17 KOs)

ALSO FEATURING:

Toronto's own undefeated welterweight sensation SAMUEL VARGAS (10-0-1, 4 KOs), who fights in the co-feature on Saturday Night.

PLUS ALL UNDERCARD FIGHTERS INCLUDING DENTON DALEY, BRANDON COOK, STEVEN WILCOX, AND JUNMAR EMON.

Friday, May 11th, 2012 – 1:00 PM

HERSHEY CENTRE
5500 Rose Cherry Place
Mississauga, ON L4Z 4B6
905-502-9100

To provide fans, friends, and members of the media with an up close and personal opportunity to see the fighters face-off before entering the ring on Saturday night. Logan Cotton McGuinness and Meacher Major will take part in a NABA Championship Weigh-In. Other fighters will participate in unofficial weigh-ins for the public. All Fighters present will be available for one on one Interviews.

Refreshments will be served beginning at 1:00PM.

SEE THEE RISE: McGUINNESS vs MAJOR is Presented by United Promotions and with Hennessy Sports.

Tickets, starting at $30.00 are still available through Ticketmaster at (855) 985-5000 or ticketmaster.ca, and additional tickets allocated for walk-up traffic have just been released at the Hershey Centre Box Office.

BERTO V ORTIZ II!

FIGHT CAMP 360º.

FIGHT CAMP 360°, the acclaimed documentary series, which launched during the Super Six World Boxing Classic, returns ahead of the highly anticipated June 23 edition of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING featuring Victor Ortiz vs. Andre Berto. SHOWTIME Sports® will produce three episodes of FIGHT CAMP 360°: Ortiz vs. Berto II, shining its unique spotlight into the lives and personalities of both of these compelling young fighters as they prepare for the rematch of the 2011 Fight of the Year (USA Today, The Ring magazine). The first episode will premiere on Wednesday, June 13, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME®.

The series-which has been called "gritty" and "outstanding" by ESPN and "the most groundbreaking concept the sport has seen in years" by MaxBoxing-will again give fight fans unfiltered access behind the scenes of the sweet science. Episode one will highlight the lives of Ortiz and Berto over the last four months, including Berto's rehabilitation for the torn left biceps injury that postponed the bout. Episode two, premiering Wednesday, June 20, at 10 p.m. on SHOWTIME, will bring fight fans the intensity of the final preparations for this career-defining fight.

In addition to the two 30-minute preview episodes in anticipation of Ortiz vs. Berto II, SHOWTIME Sports will produce a 15-minute wrap-up episode to premiere one week following the fight on Saturday, June 30, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME.

Installments one and two of FIGHT CAMP 360°: Ortiz vs. Berto II will replay on CBS Sports Network, SHOWTIME and SHOWTIME EXTREME (full schedule listed below). Additionally, the episodes will be available on SHOWTIME On Demand.

In April 2011, Ortiz and Berto engaged in one of the most thrilling fights of the year, with both men hitting the canvas twice before Ortiz rallied to victory and captured Berto's World Boxing Council (WBC) Welterweight World Championship. On Saturday, June 23, these rugged and determined fighters will meet once again, this time at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, Calif., in a highly anticipated 12-round welterweight rematch live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

BROADWAY BOXING RETURNS!

THURSDAY JUNE 14TH.

On Thursday, June 14, DiBella Entertainment's Broadway Boxing series returns to New York City's famed Roseland Ballroom for its third installment of 2012. Headlining the card will be world-rated welterweight contender Thomas Dulorme (14-0, 11KO's), who is widely considered as one of the most promising young boxers in all of boxing, as well as Long Island's fan-favorite undefeated light heavyweight prospect, "Irish" Seanie Monaghan (13-0, 8KO's).

Broadway Boxing kicked off the 2012 season with an action-packed, sold out card at Roseland on January 21. DBE followed that up with another completely sold out event on March 7 at B.B. King Blues Club and now returns for what promises to be another thrilling night of boxing with the undercard featuring some of the most exciting and popular fighters throughout the New York area.

Dulorme, 14-0, 11KOs, is of Dominican descent but he has spent the large majority of his life as a resident of Puerto Rico. The 22-year-old NABF Welterweight Champion is part of Team Puerto Rico, a group of fighters promoted by DiBella Entertainment, Gary Shaw Productions, Universal Promotions and Warriors Boxing. Already rated as the WBC #3 and WBA #4 welterweight in the world, Dulorme is coming a first-round annihilation of Aris Ambriz, 16-2-1, 8KOs, on February 17, which was the main event on ShoBox: The New Generation, shown live on SHOWTIME®. Boxing insiders have been raving about Dulorme's ability for some time now, and the blue-chip prospect continues to inch closer to his first world title opportunity in the very near future.

Every time that Long Beach, New York's Seanie Monaghan, 13-0, 8KOs, steps into the ring, his army of fans continues to grow. Monaghan, who last fought on the undercard of Sergio Martinez' middleweight title defense against Matthew Macklin at Madison Square Garden on St. Patrick's Day, has become a staple fighting on the undercard of almost every recent major card that has come to New York due to his action-packed, fan friendly style. Now, on June 14, Monaghan will have the opportunity to headline what could be the first of many more shows to come in the future for the dynamic light heavyweight prospect.

Additional bouts will be announced shortly.

Tickets are priced at $125, $85, $65 and $45, with a limited number of VIP tables available for purchase as well. VIP Tickets are priced at $150, and there are four seats to a table. Tickets can be purchased by calling DiBella Entertainment at (212) 947-2577. Call soon as tickets are already going fast and a third consecutive sellout for the Broadway Boxing series is expected.

Irish Invasion!

Line-up.

Main Event - Super Middleweights (10)

Patrick Hyland (25-0, 11 KOs), Marlboro, NY by way of Dublin, Ireland
Frankie Archuleta (27-9-1, 14 KOs), Albuquerque, NM

Super Featherweights (6)

Chazz McDowell (5-1, 1 KO), Yonkers, NY
Yuniel Ramos (1-6-1), Miami, FL by way of Las Tunas, Cuba

Female Super Featherweights (6)

Natasha Spence (3-0-1, 2 KOs), Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
Racquel Bailey (1-1-1), Oklahoma City, OK

Light Welterweights (4)

Treysean Wiggins (3-0, 3 KOs), Newburgh, NY
Barrington Douse (0-3), Springfield. MA

Light Middleweights (4)

Valdrin Muriqi (2-1), New York, NY by way of Albania
Philip Burnette (2-3, 1 KO), Myrtle Beach, SC

Middleweight (4)

Byrant Pappas (13-0-1, 13 KOs), Yonkers, NY
Josh Williams (5-4, 4 KOs), Sheridan, AK

Final Round Promotions, in association with Team Snooki Boxing and Bob Duffy's Ring Promotions, sponsored in part by Title Boxing.

TICKETS: $35.00, $50.00 and $100 (Gold Ringside) - available to purchase at the Mid-Hudson Civic Center and through all Ticketmaster outlets

PPV STREAMING: www.ustream.tv/bslive for $15.00, instant replays available

TICKET ALERT!

ESPN FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS, JULY 13TH.

Tickets are now on sale for ESPN Friday Night Fights' "CROSSROADS", set for Friday, July 13th at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago, Illinois.

Presented by 8 Count Productions and Warriors Boxing, the event will be headlined by a ten round light heavyweight clash between former world champion Glen "The Road Warrior" Johnson and Chicago's popular world ranked contender, "The Polish Prince" Andrzej Fonfara.

The co-main event will feature a ten round welterweight battle between legendary two-time former world champion Jose Luis "EL Terrible" Castillo and longtime Chicago fan favorite Ivan "EL Marro" Popoca.

Advance tickets for "CROSSROADS", priced at $151, $101, $51 and $31, can be obtained through Ticketmaster (Ticketmaster.com, 1-800-745-3000), the 8 Count Productions Offices, 312-226-5800 or the UIC Pavilion Box Office, 312-413-5740.

The UIC Pavilion is located at 525 S. Harrison, at the corner of Harrison and Racine on the campus of University of Illinois-Chicago. Doors on the night of the event will open at 7pm with the first bell at 7:45pm.

Said Dominic Pesoli of 8 Count Productions, 'It's an honor to bring Glen Johnson and Jose Luis Castillo to Chicago for their first time in their brilliant careers. Fonfara and Popoca are both very excited to test their skills against these former world champions and future Hall of Famers on July 13th at the UIC Pavilion."

"Fans should move quickly for the best seats, as public demand for tickets for this event is expected to be very high, it's going to be a very special night for Chicago fight fans."

Stated Leon Margules of Warriors Boxing, "Glen Johnson has always accepted challenges to fight anywhere in the world against any opponent. Along with being a world champion, Glen truly has earned the nickname "Road Warrior". Against a hard-hitting young lion like Fonfara in his hometown, Johnson once again proves that he is always willing to travel anywhere for the toughest challenges."

Compiling a record of 51-16-2 with 35 knockouts, future Hall of Famer Johnson, hold wins against numerous boxing legends and former world champions including Roy Jones, Antonio Tarver, Clinton Woods and Chicago's Montell Griffin.

In 2010 and 2011, Johnson participated in the SHOWTIME broadcasted and highlyacclaimed Super Six Super Middleweight Tournament, knocking out perennial contender Allan Green in the eighth round on November 6, 2010.

Against Fonfara, Johnson will look to get back in the win column after two fierce battles in 2011 against Super Middleweight Champions Carl Froch and Lucian Bute.

Just 24 years old, Fonfara, 21-2-0 (12KO's), has built a reputation in the vast Chicago Polish community and among local boxing fans as a hard punching, all action fighter with dynamite knockout power in both hands.

Drawing huge crowds to all of his fights at the UIC Pavilion, Fonfara has won his last nine in a row all by knockout, eight of which have come at the downtown Chicago venue.

In his last start on March 16th, Fonfara brutally stopped former world champion Byron Mitchell in the third round in front of thousands of local supporters at the UIC Pavilion.

Fonfara is currently ranked #9 by the World Boxing Association.

A native of Mexicali, Mexico, Castillo has been amongst the popular Mexican fighters over the last fifteen years.

Although the two-time former world champion has faced and beaten a long line of outstanding fighters, he is perhaps best known for what many boxing writers believe is the greatest fight in the sports' illustrious history, the epic first bout against Diego Corrales on May 7, 2005 in Las Vegas. Drilling Corrales to the canvas twice in the 10th round, Castillo was stopped moments later while upright against the ropes.

Corrales, 63-11-1 (54KO's), also battled boxing's finest, Floyd Mayweather Jr. twice in 2002, losing a very close, controversial decision both times. It is widely thought that these were Mayweather Jr.'s toughest fights of his career.

Castillo won his first title against Stevie Johnston on June 17, 2000. Other former champions and contenders that Castillo has defeated over his sensational career include Joel Casamayor, Julio Diaz, Juan Lazcano, Cesar Bazan, Jorge Paez and Rolando Reyes.

Born in Guerrero, Mexico, the upset minded Popoca, 15-1-1 (10KO's), returns to action at the UIC Pavilion where he is undefeated, winning six in row in 2009-2010 including a sensational war over Jose Luis Soto Karass on May 29, 2010.

In his last outing on April 15, 2011, Popoca went to battle with highly regarded Russian contender Ruslan Provodnikov in a bout also broadcast on ESPN Friday Night Fights from Temecula, California. Fighting evenly over the first seven rounds, the bout was awarded to Provodnikov in the eighth as referee Pat Russell stopped the bout as Popoca got to his feet after being knocked down, despite Popoca's willingness to continue.

A full selection of undercard bouts featuring Chicago's finest prospects will be announced shortly.

Trout In Heavy Training!

June 2ND Title Defense.

WBA World Junior Middleweight Champion Austin "No Doubt" Trout (24-0, 14 KOs) sounds tired. And he should.

Trout is in heavy training for his third title defense, against free-swinging junior middleweight contender Delvin "EL Peligro" Rodriguez (26-5-3, 14 KOs), on Saturday, June 2, at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California.

The 12-round Trout vs. Rodriguez clash will be part of a scheduled Quadrupleheader live on SHOWTIME® that also includes former light heavyweight champion Antonio "Magic Man" Tarver (29-6, 20 KOs) taking on unbeaten power puncher Lateef "Power" Kayode (18-0, 14 KO's); Ronald "Winky" Wright (51-5-1, 25 KO's) vs. Peter "Kid Chocolate" Quillin (26-0, 20 KO's); and Vusi "Marvelous" Malinga (20-3, 12 KO's) going against undefeated Leo "Terremoto" Santa Cruz (19-0-1, 11 KO's) for the vacant IBF Bantamweight World Championship.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will air live at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast) on SHOWTIME® with preliminary bouts airing live on SHOWTIME EXTREME® beginning at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

"Training is going good. I'm tired, so it's doing its job," said Trout. "I'm excited. I can't wait for June 2 to come. I'm working so hard right now and it's all going good. I'm more excited now than I've ever been. In fact, I'm trying to curb it back because it's making my days go real slow."

26-year-old Trout lives in Las Cruces, New Mexico, where he, long-time trainer Louie Burke, and strength and conditioning coach Siju Shabazz have been putting in the work. "I run in the morning and do sprints, about four miles. Then we go to the gym for sparring and skills and drills, do about 20 rounds. Then my strength coach takes over and we get into calisthenics and biometric workout after that. It's rough."

Trout says he respects Rodriguez, but says this fight will be a wonderful chance to showcase his skills.

"He's a good fighter. I'm glad to be able to have a fight like this on this stage against an exciting guy like him, but honestly, I don't feel like he's on my level. It'll be a good fight. He's a warrior and he brings a hard fight for all 12 rounds, but I think I can get him out of there in the late rounds. It might be closer early, but I'll pull away in the later rounds for sure."

Trout says he's still the same guy he always was since winning the title, but has taken on more of a public role in his hometown, going around to schools and talking about bullying and how to prevent it. In the past year, he has visited over 10 schools and talked to more than 4000 kids.

"I'm hoping to get the Kardashian sisters to be his guests of honor at the fight," laughs the good-natured champion. "I saw Floyd had Justin Bieber in his corner. I want to be able to say 'forget Bieber. I got the Kardshians!"

The event is presented by A.T. Entertainment, Golden Boy Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions and sponsored by Corona and AT&T with Trout vs. Rodriguez being presented in association with Greg Cohen Promotions and Joe DeGuardia'sStar Boxing and Malinga vs. Santa Cruz being presented in association with Branco Sports Productions.

Tickets for the June 2 event are on sale now for as low as $25, with VIP floor seats priced at $200. Other tickets in the 8,000-seat outdoor stadium at The Home Depot Center are available at $50 and $100. Fans can purchase tickets at AXS.com or by phone at 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849), as well as The Home Depot Center Box Office (open Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. PT). VIP Suites are available for purchase by calling 1-877-604-8777. For more information on group discounts or VIP packages, please call 1-877-234-8425.

Hatton Hits Back At Coldwell!

HATTON BLASTS BACK AT COLDWELL ACCUSATION.

RICKY HATTON has fired back at Dave Coldwell, trainer of Hatton Promotions light-middleweight star Ryan Rhodes.

Coldwell claims that Hatton Promotions are not acting in the boxer’s best interests after 'The Hitman' started training his big fight rival Sergey Rabchenko.

Sheffield’s Rhodes attempts to regain the European crown when he meets Hatton Promotions stable mate Rabchenko for the vacant title on the ‘Road To Glory’ bill at Manchester Velodrome on Saturday 16th June.

Ricky finds himself in the position where two of his world class fighters being matched by the European Boxing Union, and Coldwell is upset that the former two-weight world champion is training the Belarussian puncher.

Hatton explained: “I am in an awkward and horrible position now as I'm a trainer and promoter.

“I think the world of Ryan and all my boxers.

“Ryan and his trainer Dave Coldwell have known me long enough to know I have all my boxers’ best interests at heart.

“It is a strange situation but I'd have thought of all people that Coldwell who is also a promoter and a trainer would have understood the predicament I now face.

“Since Hatton Promotions started promoting Ryan we have secured him a world title challenge, and this will be the second time we have made a European title shot for Ryan.

“For Coldwell to insinuate that we would possibly be stitching Ryan up and not acting in his best interests has hurt me personally.

“These are unfair comments from Coldwell and shows what a fickle sport boxing is. He seems to forget what I have done for Ryan since we signed him.”

Hatton agreed to train unbeaten Rabchenko before the vacant championship contest against Rhodes was mandated by the EBU.

They were due to meet in March, and then Hatton told Rabchenko to stay with his current trainer until he’d boxed Rhodes.

When Rhodes pulled out of that date, Hatton worked Rabchenko’s corner when the Belarusian fought replacement Ronny Gabel in a non-title fight.

Hatton added: “I did the honourable thing and spoke to Ryan explaining that I was now working with Sergey after he pulled out.

“I tweeted just over a week ago that Sergey had landed in Manchester and was in the gym training.

“Coldwell tweeted back that Ryan didn't know I was training him said that as Ryan's promoter I was trying to get him beat.

“It goes without saying I'm training Sergey to win but as a promoter it doesn't change anything.

“As the promoter of the winner I will bend over backwards for them to secure a world title and it goes without saying that I will be there to help the loser re-build their career.”

The ‘Road To Glory’ bill also features a vacant WBA interim super-bantamweight title fight between Scott Quigg and Rendall Munroe, Martin Murray in championship action and Rhodes’ fellow steel city fighter Richard Towers facing Michael Wallisch for the vacant EU heavyweight crown.

There will be a talent stacked undercard that will include former British and Commonwealth welterweight champion Craig Watson (20-5), unbeaten hopefuls Adam Etches (7-0), Scott Jenkins (4-0), Ryan Doyle (1-0), Jimmy Kelly (1-0).

Ticket prices are now on sale priced £125 (VIP Inner Ringside + exclusive cash bar), £100 Ringside, £55, £35 and £30. You can purchase tickets by calling Hatton Promotions hotline 01925 755 222/www.ticketmaster.co.uk/0844 847 2500/www.ticketline.co.uk/0844 888 4402/www.hmv.com

For all the latest updates please follow the Twitter account dedicated to fight @quiggvmunroe

Weights From Lowell!

HOMECOMING.

Main Event -- USBO Super Middleweight Championship (10)

Joey McCreedy (13-5-2, 6 KOs), Lowell, MA 166 LBS.
Shujaa El-Amin (7-13-1, 4 KOs), Flint, MI 168 LBS.

Co-Feature - Light Welterweights (8-0)

Sean Eklund (10-4, 2 KOs), Lowell, MA 142 1/2 LBS.
James Ventry (7-13-1, 4 KOs), Miagra Falls, NY 139. 1/2 LBS.

Light Welterweights (6)

Antonio Canas (6-0, 3 KOs), Chicago, IL 141 1/2 LBS.
Tyrone Chatman (9-1-1, 6 KOs), St. Louis, MO 143 LBS.

Welterweights (4)

Rafael Jusino (0-6), Lawrence, MA 144 LBS.
Jimmy Smith (pro debut), Portland, ME 146 1/2 LBS.

Middleweights (4)

Bernie Ongewe (pro debut), Dracut, MA 158 1/2 LBS.
Anthony Jones (0-0-1), Newark, NJ 160 LBS.

TICKETS: $25.00, $40.00 and $75.00, available to purchase by calling 978.761.8374 or at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium box office.

Barthelemy V Osiobe!

Shootout At Texas Station.

Another intriguing fight has been added to the undercard of this Friday's ShoBox: The New Generation telecast (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) presented by Warriors Boxing, entitled "Shootout at Texas Station", from the Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel in Las Vegas, as undefeated Cuban American Rances "Kid Blast" Barthelemy (15-0, 11 KOs) will now face Denmark, via Nigeria's Robert "Super" Osiobe (11-4, 6 KOs) in an eight-round super featherweight battle.

"Shootout at Texas Station" will be headlined by a 10-round junior middleweight main event between Cuba's Yudel Jhonson (12-0, 8 KOs) and Cleveland's Willie "The Great" Nelson (17-1-1, 11 KOs). The eight-round co-feature will pit undefeated super middleweights Badou Jack "The Ripper" (10-0, 8 KOs) of Sweden and Colombia's power-punching Alexander Brand (17-0, 15 KOs).

Barthelemy had originally been scheduled to face Mexico's Aalan Martinez, but an injury forced his withdrawal and the removal of the fight from the televised portion of the show.

The addition of the capable Osiobe, however, makes that fact unfortunate for the television audience.

"That's a great fight," said event promoter Leon Margules of Warriors Boxing. "You really have to hand it to Rances to be taken off TV, but still want to go in against a tough opponent. He's a true fighter and we're very proud of him."

Osiobe's four losses have come against three undefeated fighters and one former world title challenger, in a fight for the European championship.

"Rances was sensational in his last fight against Hylon Williams, so we're confident in his abilities, but this fight is by no means a gimme. Osiobe is competitive with just about any super featherweight in the world."

Tickets for "Shootout at Texas Station" are on sale now, priced at $27 and $52 and are available at Ticketmaster, any Texas Station rewards center or at SCLV.COM/CONCERTS. A few VIP seats are available at a price of $102 can be purchased by calling (954) 985-1155.

On fight night, doors open at 6:30 and the action starts at 7:00 pm.

Station Bucks may be used to purchase tickets. All ages welcome. Under 21 must be accompanied by an adult 21 or over. Show subject to change without notice. Management reserves all rights. Digital Photography and video prohibited. Tickets can be purchased at any Station Casinos Boarding Pass Rewards Center, The Fiesta's, by logging onto stationcasinos.com/concerts or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel is located at 2101 Texas Star Lane in North Las Vegas. Telephone: (702) 631-1000 or (800) 654-8888.

Nelson V Jhonson!

Team Nelson Planning An Upset.

Cleveland's Willie "The Great" Nelson (17-1-1, 11 KOs) may have come up a little short in his ShoBox: The New Generation debut against Vincent Arroyo last April, but he's planning on doing what all great fighters can do: come back stronger than ever.

Nelson and his training team and promoters, Rumble Time Promotions, are focused on making the second time the charm when he faces Cuba's Yudel Jhonson (12-0, 8 KOs) this Friday, May 11, in the 10-round junior middleweight main event of the ShoBox: The New Generation telecast (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) presented by Warriors Boxing, entitled "Shootout at Texas Station", from the Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel in Las Vegas.

The eight-round co-featured battle of undefeated super middleweights Badou Jack "The Ripper" (10-0, 8 KOs) of Sweden and Colombia's power-punching Alexander Brand (17-0, 15 KOs) will go on as scheduled.

Original opponent Jhonson opponent Freddy Hernandez was forced to pull out with an injury and Nelson stepped in on 11 days' notice. "We were training for a six-round tune-up fight a week later, so I've been working very hard and I'm in great shape," said Nelson of his decision to take this important fight on short notice. "When this opportunity came to showcase my talents and progress on Showtime, I could not turn it down. We were hoping for a big TV fight this summer, so when this opportunity came up it was very exciting. I have been there before and this time, I'll be ready!"

25-year-old Nelson says his only reservation about fighting Jhonson was weight. "Weight was a big consideration. We were just deciding to leave the welterweight division and it was important to agree on a catch weight of 152 pounds because it just would not be smart to step right in and fight a guy at 156-157 pounds on short notice. My instinct is to jump in and fight anybody, but my team helped me make smart decisions."

A former USA and European amateur champion, Nelson says he has great respect for his opponent Jhonson. "He comes from a great line of Cuban fighters, and like me, he had an extensive and successful amateur career. As a pro, he has had only 12 fights and none against anyone that can do the things I can do. I respect Yudel, but I look forward to beating him."

"I'm excited to have my 6' 3" beast back on Showtime!" exclaimed Nelson's much less reserved promoter, Steven Smith of Rumble Time Promotions. "He had a rough outing last time he was on ShoBox! He had some personal things going on in his life and wasn't fully focused! He back and ready to destroy! I'm anxious to let Willie expose this overrated Cuban fighter! Willie has all the tools to shatter Jhonson's dream. He's tall, fast and can punch with a great amateur and pro background. I think Willie knocks him out in round six!"

Nelson has switched trainers since the close decision loss to Arroyo. He is now working with Jack Loew, of Kelly Pavlik fame. Losing to Arroyo, he says, was a learning experience. "After losing that fight, I had to go back and work on some defense and use some of my advantages better. I switched trainers. I had a long experience with my old trainer, dating way back to my amateur success. He is a fantastic trainer, but sometimes you need a change to shake you up and improve on things that you hadn't done in the past. I think my current style reflects that. Since I joined (trainer) Jack Loew and the rest of my team in Youngstown, we have been working so hard to prepare me to showcase my skills."

Tickets for "Shootout at Texas Station" are on sale now, priced at $27 and $52 and are available at Ticketmaster, any Texas Station rewards center or at SCLV.COM/CONCERTS. A few VIP seats are available at a price of $102 can be purchased by calling (954) 985-1155.

On fight night, doors open at 6:30 and the action starts at 7:00 pm.

Station Bucks may be used to purchase tickets. All ages welcome. Under 21 must be accompanied by an adult 21 or over. Show subject to change without notice. Management reserves all rights. Digital Photography and video prohibited. Tickets can be purchased at any Station Casinos Boarding Pass Rewards Center, The Fiesta's, by logging onto stationcasinos.com/concerts or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel is located at 2101 Texas Star Lane in North Las Vegas. Telephone: (702) 631-1000 or (800) 654-8888.

Quillin V Wright!

Quillin Simmering & Positioning.

America's No. 1 middleweight contender, undefeated Peter "Kid Chocolate" Quillin (26-0, 20 KOs), fully understands that an impressive victory June 2 over four-time world light middleweight champion Ronald "Winky" Wright (51-5-1, 25 KOs) should get him much closer to his dream of fighting for a world title.

Quillin-Wright is the 10-round Showtime co-feature at Home Depot Center in Carson, California.

Wright has never been stopped in 57 pro bouts, fighting world-class opponents such as Felix Trinidad (WDEC12), Shane Mosley (DEC12 twice), Bernard Hopkins (LDEC12), Paul Williams (LDEC12), Fernando Vargas (LDEC12) and Jermain Taylor (D12). All of Wright's five losses have been to world champions.

"This is my first fight on Showtime and it's a great opportunity for me to showcase my talents," Quillin said. "The reason I make so many sacrifices and work so hard is to be world middleweight champion. Defeating 'Winky' will get me closer and becoming the first to knock him out is motivating. I also want revenge for 'Winky' beating one of my favorite fighters, Felix Trinidad."

At risk for Quillin is a future title shot against one of the current world champions - Felix Sturm (WBA Super), Gennady Golovkin (WBA Regular), Daniel Geale (IBF), Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. (WBC) and Dmitry Pirog (WBO) - and ultimately the coveted showdown with the universally recognized 160-pound champion, Sergio Martinez.

Quillin, the IBF #6 rated middleweight, could also be in line to fight one of the other top contenders such as Mathew Macklin or Andy Lee - a fight in NYC would be huge for Manhattan resident "Kid Chocolate" vs. either Irishman - or possibly former world champion Jermain Taylor. Lee, who passed on an opportunity to fight Quillin back on March 17 (St. Patrick's Day) at The Theater in Madison Square Garden, challenges Chavez on June 9.

None of the aforementioned potential fights will happen, of course, unless Quilln gets past the ageless Wright, whose peek-a-boo defensive style has caused nightmares for many opponents.

"I go to Wild Card Gym to work and with my strength-and-conditioning coach, Brad Bose, at his Anatomi Gym," Quillin spoke about being a professional boxer on the brink of a world title fight. "That's all I do when I'm training for a fight. I don't really do too much more between fights because boxing is my job, my career. My father, Pedro, and little brother, Cedric, have been here with me in LA giving me added motivation. My time is coming!"

Quillin has a powerful team behind him: promoter Golden Boy Promotions, co-managers John Seip and Jim McDevitt, new advisor Al Haymon, and trainers Freddie Roach and Eric Brown. They can get him to the Promised Land in boxing, but all of the rest is squarely up to "Kid Chocolate," starting June 2nd with "Winky."

For more information about Peter "Kid Chocolate" Quillin go online to www.TheKidChocolate.com or follow him on Twitter @/Kid Chocolate.

Haye V Chisora & Povetkin V Rahman!

Two Heavyweight Highlights In London.

London will play host to the boxing event of the year. Upton Park is the chosen venue for two spectacular heavyweight encounters on July 14 presented by Frank Warren and Sauerland Event. Former world champion David Haye (25-2, 23 KOs) will face off with fellow Englishman Dereck Chisora (15-3, 9 KOs), while current WBA Heavyweight Champion Alexander Povetkin (24-0, 16 KOs) will defend his title against mandatory challenger Hasim Rahman (50-7-2, 41 KOs) the very same night.

The official announcement of these two fights was made today at the home ground of the English Football Club West Ham United, the very same place where the bouts will actually take place in front of an estimated 40.000 strong crowd.

Not too long ago, a fight between Chisora and Haye seemed impossible. After showing great spirit during a fight against the current WBC Heavyweight Champion Vitali Klitschko, “Del Boy” failed to show the same class outside of the ring. The post-fight press conference was attended by David Haye, who verbally provoked Chisora, who then lost his temper. The following confrontation ended in chaos. Therefore, boxing fans around the world will be looking forward to seeing this feud being settled inside the ring. “I just don’t like him,” said Chisora. David Haye replied in cool fashion: “That is exactly why he is the perfect opponent for me. He will get a slow, concussive beating.”

“I am expecting it to be one of the most discussed and exciting fights of all time,” said promoter Kalle Sauerland. “Combined with the bout for the WBA Heavyweight Title between Alexander Povetkin and Hasim Rahman it is going to be an amazing show – and all this inside a great venue. A packed football stadium during night time and two great heavyweight highlights – this guarantees a great atmosphere and a lot of drama.”

The second fight of the night also promises to be a highlight. Current WBA Champion Alexander Povetkin, who won the belt last August against former title holder Ruslan Chagaev in Erfurt, will face off with former WBC and IBF Heavyweight Champion of the world Hasim Rahman, in his 3rd title defense. Back in April 2001, Rahman took the belts of boxing legend Lennox Lewis after knocking him out in round five but lost it after the rematch. Since losing a title shot against Wladimir Klitschko in December 2008, the American has won all his following five fights by way of knockout and hence once again received the status as mandatory challenger for the WBA crown. “Rahman has fought well for the right to challenge me,” said Povetkin, who did not attend the press conference. “But he won’t win anything against me. I will keep the world championship. That’s why I am very much looking forward to travelling to London.”

Chris Meyer, Managing Director of Sauerland Event, added: “It is quite possible that the two winners of the night will face each other in the future.”

Tickets are now availabe at www.eventim.co.uk.

Oliveira V Freitas!

Oliveira Set To Battle Idol.

Undefeated Michael "The Brazilian Rocky" Oliveira (17-0, 12 KOs), rated No. 12 by the World Boxing Council ("WBC"), is set to battle Brazilian living legend and four-time world champion, Acelino "Popo" Freitas(38-2, 32 KOs), June 2 at Conrad Punta Del Este and Resort Casino in Uruguay.

The 10-round Freitas-Oliveira main event headlines the "History In The Making" card, presented by MO Productions, which will air live on TV Global in Brazil and Uruguay television.

"I'm looking at him as just another opponent, despite him being a four-time world champion, as well as one of my idols," a confident Oliveira said from his Miami training camp. "I prepare for every fight like I'm fighting Roy Jones, Mayweather, Ali or Mike Tyson. I give 100-percent in training for every fight. Come fight night, he will be just another fighter I'll have to go through. He may be favored by the public, but any of my haters will love me after I've beaten him."

"The 36-year-old Freitas, a state legislature in a country he's revered as a national sports hero, has been retired for five years, last fighting April 28, 2007. He's coming out of retirement, taking on the popular 22-year-old Oliveira nearly 20 pounds heavier than he's ever fought.

The 5' 6" "Popo' captured the World Boxing Organization ("WBO") lightweight title, in addition to becoming two-time WBO and World Boxing Association ("WBA") Super Featherweight Champion. Between 1995 and 2007, Freitas defeated Joel Casamayor, Daniel Attah, Juan Carlos Ramirez, Jorge Rodrigo Barrios and Artur Grigorian. Acelino's only two losses were to the late Diego Corrales and Juan Diaz in his last fight.

"His experience is cancelled by one of the greatest, most experience trainers who'll be in my corner, Orlando Cuellar," Oliveira countered. "I'm preparing to hurt him; I'd be a ballet instead of a boxing if I didn't feel this way."

Oliveira has fought three times in his native Brazil in an effort to establish himself as Freitas' successor in Brazilian boxing circles. Born in Sao Paulo, he moved to Miami when he was only two weeks old and, ironically, he's preparing to fight his country's second-greatest boxer to only Hall of Famer Eder Jofre. Freitas, in fact, attended Oliveira's second Brazilian fight to show his support for his boxing successor.

The 5' 9" Oliveira is the reigning WBC South American Middleweight Champion. During the last year he has gradually dropped weight, originally fighting as a super middleweight, until his last two fights at middleweight. Under the direction of head trainer Cueller and strength-and-conditioning coach, Steve Arintok, the goal has been for Michael to fight at his natural weight of 154, which he'll be doing for the first time against Freitas.

Freitas-Oliveira has been in the works for the past 10 months. "I never, ever in my life, thought that I'd fight Acelino Freitas," Oliveira admitted. "My old trainer gave us the idea. He sent me a message saying he'd train 'Popo' to beat me for free. He gave us the idea to challenge 'Popo' and we're making it happen. He must be kicking himself now.

"We found out that 'Popo' was going to have one last fight, for his son, and win or lose, he's done and out of boxing forever. I challenged him and he accepted. May the best man win."

QUINTANA & CORLEY WIN!

DBE CONGRATULATES QUINTANA AND CORLEY ON KO VICTORIES.

This past Saturday, two of DiBella Entertainment's former world champions, Carlos "El Indio" Quintana and DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley, both traveled to their opponent's hometown to score impressive upset knockout victories. Ironically, in both bouts, all four boxers were southpaws.

Ending a near 15-month layoff, Moca, Puerto Rico's Quintana, 35, faced Las Vegas resident and former world title challenger DeAndre Latimore in the opening bout of the HBO PPV televised undercard to Mayweather-Cotto, staged at the MGM Grand. Quintana, who held the WBO welterweight title in 2008, knocked out Latimore in the sixth round.

The 37-year-old Corley, of Washington, D.C., flew to Belfast, Northern Ireland, taking on hometown favorite and former European champion Paul McCloskey, in the main event of a card promoted by Matchroom Sport. Entering the ring as a 7-1 underdog, Corley, the former WBO junior welterweight titlist from 2001-'03, stopped McCloskey in the 10th round. The bout was shown live on Sky TV.

Promoter Lou DiBella was obviously very pleased with the outcome from both fights.

"Older champions are always dangerous. There is a reason that they were champions," said DiBella. "Carlos Quintana and DeMarcus Corley both proved that they still have championship mettle and a lot left in the tank. They represent challenges to all comers."

Quintana improved to 29-3, 23KO's, while Corley's record now stands at 39-19-1, 23KO's. Look for both to be back in the ring in significant fights soon.

HOMECOMING!

McCreedy V Savage Headlines.

Lowell light welterweight Sean Eklund has been fighting in the shadows of his famous uncles, "Irish" Micky Ward and Dicky Eklund, since the day he first put on a pair of boxing gloves.

This Wednesday night, the 28-year-old Eklund (10-4, 2 KOs) will be fighting his way out of his uncles' shadows, at home in Lowell for the first time as a professional boxer, in the eight-round "Homecoming" co-feature against James Ventry (7-13-1, 4 KOs). Micky (head trainer) and Dicky (assistant trainer), of course, will be working Sean's corner at the famed Lowell Memorial Auditorium.

"Homecoming" is presented by Chicago Fight Clubs Promotion ("CFC Promotion") and headlined by a 10-round fight for the vacant United States Boxing Organization ("USBO") super middleweight title between hometown favorite "Irish" Joey McCreedy (13-5-2, 6 KOs) and Dion Savage (11-3, 6 KOs).

"There's good and bad about being a pro boxer with uncles like Micky and Dicky," Sean explained. "I learned how to box and about the business side of boxing working out with Micky when he was training to fight Arturo Gatti. Being their nephew opened doors and gave me opportunities I wouldn't have had. But there's another side, too. Some people like or dislike me based on me being their nephew. Some don't think I should get some of the opportunities I've had in boxing. Others have preconceived notions about what type of fighter I should be, all because of my uncles. It's been that way since I first laced-up my gloves. I'm used to it by now.

"Some people feel I think I'm too good for them, but that's just not true. It's because I'm more reserved, quiet like Micky, not like Dicky who, of course, is more open. I've heard stories about what people have said about me who don't even know me. I got some good chances early and lost my first two fights. I started out 0-2 and that put me in a hole. I lost two close fights to guys I bet I'd beat right now. Four-round fights just are not good for me. I'm a slow starter, like Micky was."

Sean and McCreedy are longtime friends and CFC Promotion stable-mates. As kids they used to talk about fighting as pros on the same card in Lowell. Wednesday night that dream becomes reality.

"It think it's great," Sean added. "Every pro wants to fight at home in front of their family and friends. Our (his and Joey's) last two fights were off-TV in Halifax and Chicago. Now, our family and friends can watch us right at home. I can't wait."

Also scheduled to be in action on the undercard are promising Chicago light welterweight Antonio "Aztec God of War" Canas (6-0, 3 KOs) vs. Tyrone Chatman (9-1-1, 6 KOs) in a six-bout; pro-debuting welterweight Jimmy Smith, of Portland (ME), vs. Rafael Vasinmo, of Lawrence (MA); and pro-debuting middleweight Bernie Ongewe, of Dracut (MA) vs. Anthony Jones (0-0-1) in four-round matches. Smith is a former New England Golden Gloves Tournament winner who served two tours in Iraq as a U.S. Marine. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets, reasonably priced at $25.00, $40.00 and $75.00, may be purchased by calling 978.761.8374 or at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium box office. Doors open at 6 PM/ET, first both scheduled for 7:00 PM/ET. Go to www.cfcpromotion.com or www.irishjoemccreedy.com for additional information.

Viloria V Romero III!

PPV Saturday Night.

Four of the leading flyweight boxers in the world will be in action Saturday on the "Island Assault 4: The Battle" pay-per-view-event, featuring Brian "Hawaiian Punch" Viloria vs. Omar Nino Romero III, live from Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City, Metro Manila, Philippines.

"Island Assault 4:The Battle," presented by Solar Sports, is being distributed in the United States by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9:00 PM/ET - 6:00 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, DISH Network and Avail-TVN for a suggested retail price of only $29.95. "Island Assault 4: The Battle" will also be available in Canada to Super Channel subscribers. For on-line PPV viewers go to Ustream.tv at http://www.ustream.tv/integratedsportsppv.

In addition to Viloria-Romero III, the co-feature showcases former world champions Julio Cesar "Pingo" Miranda (37-6-1, 29 KOs) and Rodel "Kid Rapido" Mayol (30-5-2, 22 KOs), in a 10-round bout with future world flyweight title fight implications.

The completion of the Viloria-Romero trilogy, originally slated for March 31, was temporarily delayed because the Nevada State Athletic Commission prevented the World Boxing Organization ("WBO") from sanctioning the fight due to unpaid penalties on Romero's part. From 2006, Romero has amassed a total of $11,500 in penalties which he needed to pay before the fight is sanctioned.

Three-time world champion Viloria (30-3, 16 KOs), a 2000 U.S. Olympian, defends his "WBO" title belt against two-time world title-holder Romero (31-4-2, 13 KOs) in the 12-round main event. Viloria won his first 20 pro fights, until he lost the World Boxing Council ("WBC") light flyweight championship to Romero in 2006, by way of a 12-round unanimous decision. Three months later, their rematch ended in a draw that was later changed to a "no contest" when Romero failed a post-fight drug test.

"I want to clean the slate this fight," Viloria said. "We've had a loss and draw, changed to a no contest, and that was my first loss. I feel like there'd be unfinished business if I left it like that. The trilogy gives me a chance to put that chapter behind me. Romero is deceivingly quick and a little awkward at times. He goes in-and-out fairly well and throws a lot of combinations."

Presently rated No. 2 by The Ring Magazine, Viloria has beaten many of the best smaller-weight fighters in the world, including Giovanni Segura (TKO8), Julio Cesar Miranda (DEC12), Omar Soto (DEC10), Ulises Solis (KO11), Eric Ortiz (KO1), Jose Antonio Aguirre (DEC12) and Angel Antonio Priolo (KO7).

In addition to defeating Viloria, Romero has beaten Mayol (DEC12), Jorge Arce (TKO1), Sammy Gutierrez (DEC10) and Ronald Barrera (RTD4), among the more notables.

A Mexican knockout specialist who lost a WBO title fight last year to Viloria, Miranda is rated No. 3 by the WBO and No. 4 by the World Boxing Association ("WBA"). WBC No. 9 and IBF No. 12 Mayol, a Filipino now living in Los Angeles, lost his WBC Light Flyweight crown, ironically, to Romero in 2010.

The remainder of Saturday's PPV card features the next wave of Filipino prospects. Robert "Battlin' Bert" Udtuhan (17-1-1, 13 KOs) faces Alvin Makiling (9-4-1, 2 KOs) in a 12-round match for the Interim WBO Asia-Pacific Bantamweight Championship, while undefeated featherweight Jun "Chainsaw" Doligues (11-0, 7 KOs) meets veteran Jonel "Mulawin" Alibio (16-13-2, 8 KOs) in a special 10-round Featherweight Attraction. All fighters and fights are subject to change.

Acevedo Back In Action!

Texas Station On Friday.

Puerto Rican super middleweight prospect Roberto Jose Acevedo (3-0, 2 KOs) says his upcoming opponent, Martinez Sharod Porter (1-1) of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, had better be prepared for battle this Friday... because he is.

Acevedo and Porter will meet in a four-round non-televised preliminary bout on the undercard of the ShoBox: The New Generation telecast presented by Warriors Boxing, entitled "Shootout at Texas Station", scheduled for Friday, May 11 (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast), from the Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel in Las Vegas.

The night will be headlined by Cleveland's once-beaten Willie "The Great" Nelson (17-1-1, 11 KOs) stepping in to face Cuba's Yudel Jhonson (12-0, 8 KOs) in the 10-round junior middleweight main event, plus an eight-round co-featured battle of undefeated super middleweights Badou Jack "The Ripper" (10-0, 8 KOs) of Sweden and Colombia's power-punching Alexander Brand (17-0, 15 KOs).

25-year-old Acevedo stands 6' 2" and has an almost 80-inch reach. He was born in Miami, but grew up in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. As an amateur, Acevedo was 50-1, 20 KOs, qualified for the Puerto Rico National Olympic team and was a three-time Puerto Rican Regional and two-time Puerto Rican National champion.

What are your impressions of professional boxing now that you've had a few fights? Is it a difficult transition from amateur to pro?

More dedication and sacrifice are required in the pros, but for me pro fighting hasn't been all that different from amateur fighting because I've always had a professional style, even in the amateurs.

What do you know about your opponent Martinez Porter?

Other than his name and record, nothing. All I know is that come May 11, he needs to be prepared, because I know I am.

You're young and fairly big for a super middleweight, will we ever see you take a jump up in weight?

I'm not really considering going up in weight for now. I've always been comfortable doing 165 lbs or less. My height is something I like to use to my advantage.

Describe yourself as a fighter. Style? Best Punch? Biggest Strength as a fighter?

I would say I'm a complex fighter. I never count on using only one style, one technique or one punch. I try to keep myself from being predictable. Me and my team take care of that by studying and taking on new techniques and fixing my flaws. Best punch? I'd say watch out for my uppercuts. My biggest strength? My desire and dedication.

How did you start in boxing?

Truth is the fight has always been in me. When I was a teenager, I went to juvenile detention for fighting. So as soon as I got out, I thought that the best ways to straighten my ways and do what I loved without getting in trouble was boxing (laughs). Even though my father was against it, my uncle went and bought me all the gear. So, here I am. Since then, throughout the years my reasons for boxing have changed, but the passion that I feel for it only grows.

You were born in Miami and moved to Puerto Rico. Why?

Even though I was born in Miami both of my parents are Puerto Rican. Eventually my father and mother divorced and my father decided to move back to Puerto Rico along with me and my brothers. It's in my blood!! I'll always say I'm a Boricua even if I had I been born on the moon!

Why did you turn professional when you did?

Even though I had a great amateur career, I had to fight people way bigger in weight classes to get fights. After making the Puerto Rico Olympic team for the Mayagüez 2010 - XXI Juegos Centroamericanos y del Caribe, my fiancée was pregnant and we needed the money and I was made a great offer to jump to the pro boxing. It never happened due to poor management and it wasn't till I spoke with my older brother and actual manager, Jose Alberto Acevedo. They helped me go pro and make my dream come true.

Tell me about your home life in Bayamon.

I live a normal life. I'm a boxer and a barber, but above all, a father and a husband, a brother and a son. My life is very family oriented. Everything I do, I do for my family. I have been living in the same town since I first moved to Puerto Rico, and everyone follows my career. I have great support from my people in Bayamon.

What is your dream in boxing?

My biggest dream in boxing would have to be to achieve a place among the best. I'd like to win titles and defend them. I'll prove I'm worth them.

Tickets for "Shootout at Texas Station" are on sale now, priced at $27 and $52 and are available at Ticketmaster, any Texas Station rewards center or at SCLV.COM/CONCERTS. A few VIP seats are available at a price of $102 can be purchased by calling (954) 985-1155.

On fight night, doors open at 6:30 and the action starts at 7:00 pm.

Station Bucks may be used to purchase tickets. All ages welcome. Under 21 must be accompanied by an adult 21 or over. Show subject to change without notice. Management reserves all rights. Digital Photography and video prohibited. Tickets can be purchased at any Station Casinos Boarding Pass Rewards Center, The Fiesta's, by logging onto stationcasinos.com/concerts or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel is located at 2101 Texas Star Lane in North Las Vegas. Telephone: (702) 631-1000 or (800) 654-8888.

Mathis V Holm II!

June 15TH.

Veteran boxing promoter Lenny Fresquez has predicted that "The Reckoning," featuring a June 15 rematch between French knockout-artist Anne Sophie Mathis and Holly "The Preachers Daughter" Holm, will be the 2012 Female Fight of the Year.

"The Reckoning," presented by Fresquez Productions, will be held at Route 66 Casino Hotel in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

"I think it'll be closely fought and the Fight of the Year," Fresquez said. "Hands down, they are the top two women fighters in the world. This will be the most important fight of Holly's career, in which she'll try to regain her pound-for-pound status."

Mathis will defend her IBA and WBAN welterweight title belts, as well as the mythical pound-for-pound crown, for the first time since capturing the coveted straps last December by way of a stunning seventh-round knockout of hometown darling Holm.

Mathis (26-1, 22 KOs) was fighting in the United States for the first time, while Holm (30-2-3, 9 KOs) had been unbeaten for seven years during a 24-fight stretch.

"Holly won the first four rounds and in the fourth she hit Anne Sophie with a good body shot," Fresquez recounted their "World Dominance" showdown. "Holly went for the kill; she started brawling, instead of boxing, and got caught. Holly rushed out for the fifth round and, in her words, didn't execute the game plan. She understands the mistakes she made and has learned from them."

Mathis is a power puncher, Holm a consummate boxer. But Holly got away from her game plan. "Mathis came into the fight last December with 22 knockouts in 25 fights," Fresquez continued. "Everybody knew about her power and the plan was for Holly to out-box her from a distance. Holly hurt her in the fourth with that body punch but then she got away from her game plan. We took that loss as a team. Anne Sophie Mathis was the best fighter in the world that night."

Seven-time world champion and reigning IBA/WBA titilist Mathis, who is riding a 25-fight win streak, has defeated world champions such as Holm, Myriam Lamare (twice), Jane Couch, Duda Yankovich, Ana Pascal and Nathalie Toro.

Holm is a nine time, three-division world champion who has defeated some of the most notable women boxers of her era, from the 140 through 154-pound weight classes, including Christy Martin, Mary Jo Sanders, Mia St. John, Couch, Yankovich and Chevelle Hallback (twice).

"I've never seen Holly so determined," Fresquez concluded. "Based on past statistics, I understand that about 85 percent of rematches are won by the winner of the first fight. But Coach Winkeljohn and I strongly feel that Holly has learned from her mistakes and she will gain retribution on June 15th. In the last fight, they were throwing leather, and I've never seen women hit like that. These two women are more ferocious than a lot of guys. In all my years promoting women's boxing, I never saw a fight that both fighters threw and connected on so many hard punches. They tried to take each other's heads off. I expect this fight to be equally exciting and hard fought."

Mathis and Holm are simply the best women fighters, pound for pound, in the world today. This could develop into the greatest rivalry in women's boxing history.

Huck & Afolabi Battle To A Draw!

Wegner Prodigy Still Cruiserweight Champion After Strong Finish.

Marco “Captain” Huck is the new and old WBO Cruiserweight World Champion. On Saturday night the 27-year-old fought out a draw against mandatory challenger Ola Afolabi in front of 5.500 fans at the Messehalle in Erfurt. After twelve drama-filled rounds, judge Zoltan Enyedi gave the fight to the German with 115:113. Both Ingo Barrabas and Paul Thomas scored the bout 114:114

“It was a good fight,“ said Huck. “I am a real fighter and warrior, which is why I still have my title.” And it seems that the prodigy of Ulli Wegner was correct with his evaluation. To begin with Ola Afolabi was more agile and active and managed to take charge of the fight.

Round three started with some great combinations by Huck, and his British opponent was clearly affected by it. But in round four the challenger, coached by Fritz Sdunek, landed a strong left hook to the chin of the German during an infight. And it seemed as if the champion was on the verge of losing his belt after a deep cut opened up above his left eye.

But then the WBO champion started using his left hook and right straight. Towards the end of round nine he let lose a salvage of blows. Afolabi was lucky that he was saved by the bell, otherwise he probably would have been brought to the canvas. This did cost a lot of energy for Huck, nevertheless he still managed to dictate the pace for the remainder of the fight. During the last round the world champion really went for it as it was all or nothing. Although both men were struggling to stand on their feet, Huck still managed to find some energy and landed some important blows on his opponent.

And the judges’ scorecards showed how significant this last hurrah was. The belt would most likely have been lost without the tremendous character shown by Huck towards the finish of the bout. Ulli Wegner: “I am so happy that Marco showed his power at the end of the fight. Both sides should be pleased with the result. The fans saw an exciting and entertaining fight.”

Afolabi`s coach Fritz Sdunek had a similar view: “At times Ola forgot to box. He was on top but let Marco surprise him. The result is alright but I am not happy with Ola´s performance,” said the coach at the post-fight press conference.

BOO BOO WINS AGAIN!

RESULTS FROM MOHEGAN SUN.

2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius "Boo Boo" Andrade continued his march towards a world title shot, knocking out Rudy Cisneros at the end of the first round in tonight's "ESPN Boxing: FNF Special Edition," presented by Corona Extra, at Mohegan Sun Arena.

Andrade (17-0, 11 KOs), a fast-rising junior middleweight from Providence, is rated No. 6 in the World Boxing Organization ("WBO") and No. 7 in the International Boxing Federation ("IBF"). The gifted, young southpaw established his lightning-quick jab early, followed with some solid body punching, and closed the show with a perfect right, left combination that dropped Cisneros (12-4, 11 KOs) with three seconds left in the opening round. Chisneros, a Contender, Season Two participant, was taken out of the ring on a stretcher because he was dizzy. He reportedly was healthy in the locker room and taken to Backus Hospital for precautionary reasons only.

Andrade, who is co-promoted by Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing and Banner Promotions, explained that he simply followed the game plan. "The game plan was to use my jab to set-up opportunities," he said. "I kept throwing punches early and saw that he dropped his right....and there it goes! I knew he'd walk into it.

"I work hard to make my fights easier. Tonight I threw combinations and established my jab. I'm sitting down on my punches and that comes from ring generalship. I'm putting it together - a little of this, a little of that. If the knockout comes, it comes, but when the shot is there, I take it. I'm not hitting him with a pillow; I'm hitting him with a brick.

DeGuardia predicted super star status for his ace. "We'll keep him busy, like we said," DeGuardia commented after the fight. "He fought here February 10th and his next fight is June 29. We'll make an announcement next week about who he'll be fighting. It'll be on a national network. We're looking at top opponents to fight him but it isn't easy.

"I think Demetrius can be my best fighter ever. He can eclipse what Antonio Tarver did. He's ready right now for a world title fight. These two fights tonight (PPV) - Canelo and Mosley and Mayweather and Cotto -- I'm confident about Demetrius fighting anyone of them, or anybody in the world. I tried to get him (Andrade) for Canelo's fight tonight and he (Alvarez) turned him down. Mayweather is the superstar today. I'm confident that this (Andrade) is the next superstar, as long as all of the stars stay aligned."

In the co-feature, Hartford favorite Addy Irizarrry (8-5, 2 KOs) returned to ring for the first time in 1 ½ years, since she suffered a severely fractured ankle, against light welterweight Victoria Cisneros. The fight ended after two rounds in a no contest due to a cut over Cisneros right eye from an accidental head-butt.

Hartford super featherweight Joseph "Chip" Perez (8-1, 2 KOs) and Juan "El Patron" Jaramillo (8-10-2, 3 KOs) had a give-and-take battle with Perez winning a unanimous six-round fight.

Vermont light middleweight Chris Gilbert (4-0, 3 KOs) kept his perfect record intact, stopping Keuntray Henson (4-5, 1 KO) in the third round. Springfield light heavyweight Reinaldo Graceski (1-0) dominated a game Borngod Washington en route to a four-round decision.

The opening bout was entertaining until Hartford light heavyweight Tylon Burris (2-0, 2 KOs) caught pro-debuting Robert Jackson with a couple of right-handed bombs in the second round. Jackson survived being decked the first time but referee Danny Schiavone halted the action at 1:53 of the second round when Burris dropped Jackson again.

Shumenov Returns!

June 2nd.

World Boxing Association ("WBA") Light Heavyweight World Champion Beibut Shumenov returns on June 2 to make his fourth title defense against former super middleweight world title challenger Enrique Ornelas at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nev. in a fight that will be televised live on FOX Sports Net and FOX Deportes.

Shumenov vs. Ornelas is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and KZ Event Productions and sponsored by Corona. The FOX Sports Net and FOX Deportes bilingual simulcast will air live at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets, priced at $100, $60, $30, $25, along with a limited number of VIP suite seats priced at $125, may be purchased at the Hard Rock Hotel Box Office, all Ticketmaster locations, online at www.ticketmaster.com or by phone at (800) 745-3000.

The fight will mark Shumenov's return to the same venue in which he first captured the WBA title in his 10th professional bout on January 29, 2010 with a 12-round unanimous decision over Gabriel Campillo, establishing the record for a fighter winning a major world light heavyweight championship in the fewest professional fights. The 2004 Kazakhstan Olympian has successfully defended against Vyacheslav Uzelkov (DEC 12), William Joppy (KO 6) and most recently against Danny Santiago (TKO 9) this past July. In only 13 professional fights, the 28-year-old Shumenov has defeated four world champions - Campillo, Byron Mitchell, Joppy and Montell Griffin - as well as former world title challengers Epifanio Mendoza, Uzelkov and Santiago.

An all-action warrior who always gives fans their money's worth in the ring, La Habra, California's Enrique Ornelas (33-7, 21 KO's) has been showing off the best form of his career since a permanent move to the light heavyweight division in 2011. He is riding a three-fight winning streak which includes a first round body shot knockout over Heriberto Gutierrez last December. Just hitting his prime at 31, Ornelas came to the 175-pound weight class after an impressive run at 168 pounds, where he owned the NABF title and gave a stellar effort in a challenge for Robert Stieglitz' WBO title in 2010.

McCreedy & Dion Headline!

Homecoming In Lowell.

When popular super middleweight "Irish" Joey McCreedy (13-5-2, 6 KOs) headlines the May 9th "Homecoming" show at Lowell Memorial Auditorium, it'll be a dream come true because, by all rights, the 27-year-old fan favorite is lucky to be fighting after he suffered a career-threatening injury six years ago.

Lowell is a hotbed for amateur boxing, annually hosting the New England Championships, but "Homecoming" - presented by Chicago Fight Clubs Promotion ("CFC Promotion") -- is the first pro show there in seven years. Lowell is best known as the home of "Irish" Micky Ward and Dicky Eklund, the principal subjects in the award-winning movie, "The Fighter." They will be working McCreedy's corner with Eklund as chief second.

Back in 2006, McCreedy suffered breaks on both sides of his jaw in the opening round of a fight at Mohegan Sun that he eventually lost by technical knockout in the fourth round to Andre Hemphill. For most fighters an injury like that would have meant instant retirement but, amazingly, Joey was back in the ring 1 ½ years later. May 9 he'll be taking on Dion Savage (11-3, 6 KOs) in the 10-round main event for the vacant United States Boxing Organization ("USBO") 168-pound title.

"After that (broken jaw), to be honest, I never thought I'd be fighting today," McCreedy admitted. "In the first round I broke my jaw in two places (pointing the the right and left sides), but I didn't give-up and kept fighting until the fourth round, when everything started spinning and I couldn't see. Dicky and Micky are like family and I got my attitude from watching them fight and knowing what they've been through. I feed off both of them. And I think my football days (fullback at Lowell High) had something to do with it, too. You have to be tough to be a running back. That's the type of guy I am. I'm a crowd-pleasing fighter who won't give up. I believe in God and that everything happens for a reason. Who knows where I'd be today as a fighter if I hadn't broken my jaw? It's 10 times stronger now because I have titanium plates in my jaw."

McCreedy and his close friend and CFC Promotions stable-mate, Sean Eklund, are the reasons their promoter, Cynthia Tolaymat, and manager, her husband Wasfi Tolaymet, are promoting the May 9 show in Lowell.

Joey and Sean (10-4, 2 KOs), whose uncles are Ward (chief second) and Dicky, have dreamed since they were kids about fighting together, at home in Lowell, on the same pro card. Both have fought there as amateurs but never as pro boxers. Eklund faces light welterweight James Ventry (7-13-1, 4 KOs) in an eight-round co-feature.

"Fighting in front of our family, friends and local fans is what we've dreamed about for so many years," McCreedy explains. "Lowell is a blue-collar town and most people don't have the money to travel to our fights. Memorial Auditorium is only a few minutes from everybody's house in Lowell. There's pressure fighting at home because you don't want to let anybody down. The Golden Gloves are big in Lowell, but we're brining pro boxing back here. Cynthia and Wasfi are great people who are taking a risk because they really believe in us. We're grateful for them giving us a chance to fight at home. I feel great after they sent me to train at Winning Factor in Pennsylvania. I did a lot of strength-and-conditioning work, learned how to eat better, and I'm in the best shape of my life. I can't wait to get into the ring May 9th. It's going to be exciting for me, Sean and the entire city of Lowell. Everybody knows I'll be giving it my best."

Eklund originally trained McCreedy after he turned pro in 2005. They went their separate ways for a few years but have been together the past two. "Joey looks better than ever," conditioning zealot Dicky confirmed. "We've been working hard to get him throwing compact punches. Joey's a tough kid and, if he does what I want, we'll all be leaving after the first round. He shouldn't have any problems with this guy, as long as he does what we've worked on. I always liked fighting in Lowell and I think Joey's going to come out strong and end things early."

Also fighting on the card is promising Chicago light welterweight Antonio "Aztec God of War" Canas (6-0, 3 KOs) vs. Tyrone Chatman (9-1-1, 6 KOs) in a six-bout. Also in action on the undercard in four-round bouts are pro-debuting welterweight Jimmy Smith, of Portland (ME), vs. Rafael Vasinmo, of Lawrence (MA); and pro-debuting middleweight Bernie Ongewe, of Dracut (MA) vs. Anthony Jones (0-0-1). Smith is a former New England Golden Gloves Tournament winner who served two tours in Iraq as a U.S. Marine. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets, reasonably priced at $25.00, $40.00 and $75.00, may be purchased by calling 978.761.8374 or at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium box office. Doors open at 6 PM/ET, first both scheduled for 7:00 PM/ET. Go to www.cfcpromotion.com or www.irishjoemccreedy.com for additional information.

Weights From Mohegan Sun!

ANDRADE V CISNEROS.

MAIN EVENT - 10 ROUNDS - JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS:

DEMETRIUS "Boo Boo" ANDRADE 157 ¾ LBS.
RUDY CISNEROS 158 LBS.

CO-FEATURE:

ADDY IRIZARRY 144 ¾ LBS.
VICTORIA CISNEROS 141 ½ LBS.

4 ROUNDS - LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS

REINALDO GRACESKI 171 ½ LBS.
BORNGOOD WASHINGTON 176 ¼ LBS.

6 ROUNDS - SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS

JOSEPH "Chip" PEREZ 131 LBS.
JUAN JARAMILLO 129 ½ LBS.

4 ROUNDS - LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS

TYLON "Shadow Boi" BURRIS 174 LBS.
ROBERT JACKSON 172 ¼ LBS.

4 ROUNDS - LIGHT MIDDLEWEIGHTS

CHRIS GILBERT 148 LBS.
KEUNTRAY HENSON 147 LBS.

TICKETS:$75.00, $40.00 and $30.00 (plus $5.00 facility fee for all tickets) and are on sale now through Ticketmaster. Ticketmaster customers may log on to ticketmaster.com; call Ticketmaster's national toll free Charge By Phone number 1.800.745.3000; or visit any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets are also available at the Mohegan Sun Box Office, subject to availability, or by calling Star Boxing at 1.718.823.2000 and online via www.StarBoxing.com.

Melson To Speak At Ring 8!

Ring 8.

Captain Boyd “Rainmaker” Melson will serve as a special guest speaker at the upcoming Ring 8 meeting Tuesday, May 15 at the Waterfront Crab House in Long Island City, NY.

A rising junior middleweight boxer and West Point graduate, Melson donates all of his fight purses to Justadollarplease.org in association with a clinical trial taking place in the United States to help cure Spinal Cord Injuries. All of the funds for the trial are being raised through donations and Melson’s played a big role in helping with the efforts. He was also recently named as an ambassador of the sport by the World Boxing Council and will discuss his efforts during the Ring 8 event at the Waterfront Crab House.

“I’m honored that Ring 8 invited me to speak,” said Melson, who also created Team Fight to Walk in association with the pending Clinical Trial to cure Spinal Cord Injuries. Melson also works a full time corporate job for Johnson and Johnson, led by fellow West Point Graduate and CEO Alex Gorsky, with its credo of helping give back. J&J takes its stand in supporting Melson by matching Melson's donations to Justadollarplease 2:1. “Ring 8 is a great organization and they share the same values I do as we both offer ourselves selflessly to help improve the lives of human beings around us, especially those in need.”

RING 8 is fully committed to supporting less fortunate people in the boxing community who may require assistance in terms of paying rent, medical expenses and other needs.

Go on line to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about RING 8, the largest group of its kind in the United States with more than 350 members. Annual membership dues is only $25.00 and each member is entitled to a buffet dinner at RING 8 monthly meetings, the third Tuesday of every month, excluding July and August. All active boxers, amateur and professional, are entitled to a complimentary RING 8 yearly membership.

For more information on Team Fight to Walk or to make a tax-deductable donation, go to teamfighttowalk.com or Justadollarplease.org.

Marco Huck!

Doctor Title For Marco Huck.

A great honor and a lot of fun for WBO-Champion Marco Huck right before his mandatory defense at the Messehalle in Erfurt (live on ARD at 10:55 pm) against the Brit Ola Afolabi: The Cruiserweight World Champion is a Doctor! The Dean of the “Miami Life Development Church” awarded Huck with an honorary title. Normally Daniel van Hoogen sells these titles to the masses via the internet. But as a big fan of Captain Huck the Luebeck native thought of something special. “We believe that Marco possesses one of the strongest punches in boxing and always excites the crowd with great knock-outs. Therefore he deserves this title for his contribution to the sport. By the way, no one can buy his title and we won’t be offering it again to nobody,”

Marco Huck – from Captain to Doctor! His title from now on will be: “Dr.h.c. of hardest punches and knockouts, MLDC, USA”. At the official award ceremony, Huck showed his appreciation at the city centre of Erfurt: “I promise that I will try everything to prove that I am worthy of this honor.” The current world champion is planning his opponent Ola Afolabi to be the first treatment of “Doctor Huck”. “Marco Huck: Today it´s just playing games but Saturday will be all business”

Huck & Afolabi Make Weight!

Weights From Erfurt, Germany.

WBO Championship Cruiserweight Title:

Marco Huck: 90,0 kg / 198.4 lbs
Ola Afolabi: 90,3 kg / 199.1 lbs

WBO Championship Super-Middleweight Title:

Robert Stieglitz: 75,6 kg / 166.7 lbs
Nader Hamdan: 75,5 kg / 166.9 lbs

EBU Championship Heavyweight Title:

Kubrat Pulev: 111,4 kg / 245.6 lbs
Alexander Dimitrenko: 116,8 kg / 257,6 lbs

Jhonson V Nelson!

Jhonson Looking To Shine Against Nelson.

Some fighters are concerned by an opponent switch, especially in their premium cable debut... not Yudel Jhonson.

With original opponent Freddy Hernandez out, Cuba's Johnson (12-0, 8 KOs) will now face Cleveland's formidable Willie "The Great" Nelson (17-1-1, 11 KOs) on Friday, May 11in the 10-round light middleweight main event of a liveShoBox: The New Generation (11 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME®, delayed on the West Coast) doubleheadertelecast entitled "Shootout at Texas Station".

"Shootout at Texas Station" is presented by Warriors Boxing live from the Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel in Las Vegas. In the co-featured bout, undefeated super middleweight Badou Jack "The Ripper" (10-0, 8 KOs) of Sweden will face Colombia's also undefeated Alexander Brand (17-0, 15 KOs).

"I'm ranked in the top 10 and I'm ready for anybody they put in front of me," said a confident Jhonson, via translator. "I had 400 amateur fights and I was one of the best amateur fighters who ever lived. Now I'm ready to make my mark as a professional. I have a lot of experience. I'm a seasoned fighter, ready to fight any top 154 pounders in the world."

Hernandez. Nelson. To Jhonson, it matters little.

"I don't care who they put in front of me at this point. I've fought tall guys, short guys and every style you will ever see. Willie Nelson is a very good fighter, I've seen him fight, but there's nothing he can do I haven't already seen a hundred times and know exactly what to do with."

Jhonson has been training with the great Cuban trainer Ismael Salas for this fight and says the two have perfect chemistry.

"I have to shine against Willie Nelson to get to the next level as a pro. I have to put in a performance that people will remember and I'm going to do it. I don't know how the fight will go exactly, but I know I'm going out there to impress. Whatever it takes to impress people, that's how I'll make the fight go. I'm happy to be back on national television again and very happy Showtime gave me this opportunity to fight in a main event on their air."

Tickets for "Shootout at Texas Station" are on sale now, priced at $27 and $52 and are available at Ticketmaster, any Texas Station rewards center or at SCLV.COM/CONCERTS. A few VIP seats are available at a price of $102 can be purchased by calling (954) 985-1155.

On fight night, doors open at 6:30 and the action starts at 7:00 pm.

Station Bucks may be used to purchase tickets. All ages welcome. Under 21 must be accompanied by an adult 21 or over. Show subject to change without notice. Management reserves all rights. Digital Photography and video prohibited. Tickets can be purchased at any Station Casinos Boarding Pass Rewards Center, The Fiesta's, by logging onto stationcasinos.com/concerts or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel is located at 2101 Texas Star Lane in North Las Vegas. Telephone: (702) 631-1000 or (800) 654-8888.

Andrade V Cisneros!

Andrade Climbing Ladder.

2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius "Boo Boo" Andrade has graduated from promising prospect to legitimate contender, climbing the world rating's ladder in the junior middleweight division to No. 6 in the World Boxing Organization ("WBO") and No. 7 in the International Boxing Federation ("IBF").

Andrade (16-0, 11 KOs) returns to the ring this Saturday night (May 5), headlining (starting at 10:00 PM / ET) an "ESPN Boxing: FNF Special Edition," presented by Corona Extra, on ESPN2. The gifted southpaw faces Contender, Season Two participant Rudy Cisneros (12-3, 11 KOs) in the 10-round main event on a card promoted by Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.

Attending fans at Mohegan Sun Arena will be able to remain in their seats after the live action concludes to watch a closed circuit showing of the Floyd Mayweather, Jr. vs. Miguel Cotto fight on the spacious venue's jumbo screen.

The 24-year-old Andrade, fighting out of nearby Providence, is also rated No. 15 in the World Boxing Council ("WBC") and World Boxing Association ("WBA"). Rankings, however, don't mean a lot, at least right now, to the 2007 World amateur champion who is co-promoted by Star Boxing and Banner Promotions.

"High ratings show the public where I am but, for me, I'm just 16-0 - soon to be 17-0 - and still climbing the ladder," Andrade explained his present outlook on his rising status. "I rate myself by the opponents I've fought. When I beat top 10 guys, I'll feel like I'm really at the top of the ratings."

Andrade's last two fights, against former world title challengers, have lasted a grand total of five rounds. Last February 10 at Mohegan Sun, Andrade destroyed Angel Hernandez (30-10) in two rounds, which followed a third-round demolition of Saul Duran last September in Manchester, NH.

"I took this fight on three week's notice because I want to fight as often as possible," Demetrius said. "I'm not making Mayweather money and need to fight to earn a living. I've stopped opponents early in my last two fights, so I'm physically ready to come right back. I'll be prepared and sharp."

Fighting on this "ESPN Boxing FNF Special Edition" is an added bonus, exposure-wise, for Andrade in his eighth ESPN appearance. "I was surprised and happy to learn that I'd be fighting on ESPN on May 5th," Andrade added. "I've grown as a fighter on ESPN. Fans have watched me improve each fight and ESPN people know I'm a good, entertaining fighter."

If Andrade stops Cisneros early, he'll be able to watch the fighter many have compared him to, Mayweather, against Cotto right after the live action concludes at Mohegan Sun.

"I'll catch the fight if there's enough time after my interviews and shower," the rising star concluded. "If not, I'm having it taped, and will watch it later. I like Mayweather in that fight. He's faster and not concerned with weight. Cotto's going to try and box but he's one-dimensional."

Supporting fights on the Andrade-Cisneros card offers a Nutmeg state flavor, starting with the co-feature, which marks the return of Hartford favorite Addy Irizarry (8-5, 2 KOs). The popular corrections officer at a Conn. prison suffered a fractured ankle in her last fight (November 20, 2010). She battles veteran welterweight Victoria Cisneros in an eight-round bout.

East Hartford super featherweight Joseph "Chip" Perez (7-1, 2 KOs) always brings a large, passionate crowd to his fights in New England. He faces super featherweight Juan Jaramillo (8-9-2, 3 KOs) in a six-round match. Hartford light heavyweight Tylon "Shadow Boi" Burris (1-0, 1 KO) faces pro-debuting Robert Jackson in a four-round bout.

Also fighting on the undercard in four-round matches are Springfield (MA) light heavyweight Reinaldo Graceski (1-0) vs. Borngood Washington, and Windsor (VT) light middleweight Chris Gilbert (3-0, 2 KOs) vs. Keuntray Henson (4-4, 1 KO).

Tickets are $75.00, $40.00 and $30.00 (plus $5.00 facility fee for all tickets) and are on sale now through Ticketmaster. Ticketmaster customers may log on to ticketmaster.com; call Ticketmaster's national toll free Charge By Phone number 1.800.745.3000; or visit any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets are also available at the Mohegan Sun Box Office, subject to availability, or by calling Star Boxing at 1.718.823.2000 and online via www.StarBoxing.com or www.mehegansun.com.

For more information go online to www.starboxing.com, facebook/starboxing, twitter/starboxing or www.mohegansun.com.

MADDALONE WINS!

Arnaoutis Remains Unbeaten.

Star Boxing's popular heavyweight contender Vinny Maddalone of Flushing, Queens, returned to the ring on Wednesday night, May 2nd, in a memorable battle against Chris Koval in the headliner of the Sold Out VIP BOXING III event at Russo's On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

Trading bombs from the opening bell, Maddalone drilled the Youngstown, Ohio native Koval to the canvas with a massive right hand midway into the opening round. After rising from the canvas Koval fought his way back into the fight stunning Maddalone with a thunderous left hook. However at the ten-second signal, Maddalone landed another hard right hand bringing the packed house to their feet.

The fast and furious pace continued over the next two rounds with each fighters throwing caution to the wind as power shots were vigorously traded.

In the fourth, Maddalone again delivered a crushing right hand that sent Koval to the mat, causing referee Randy Neumann to call a halt to the contest at the 2:34 mark.

With the win Maddalone improved to 35-7-0 (26KO's), while Koval moved to 25-9-0 (18KO's).

On the undercard, come backing contender "Mighty" Mike Arnaoutis improved to 24-7-0 (10KO's) with a stoppage of game Albany, New York's Broderick Antoine, 11-13-1 (5KO's).

The former world title challenger, winner of his second in a row, dictated the pace in a very competitive bout, however the commission doctor stopped the contest after the seventh round as it was deemed that Antoine could not continue.

Also, highly regarded and undefeated Star Boxing junior welterweight prospect, Issouf Kinda, improved to 13-0-0 (5KO's) with a dominating but hard fought victory over the willing Luis Rodriguez, 6-5-1 (1KO), of Newburg, NY. Scores were 80-70 twice and 80-71. The win earned Kinda the vacant New York State Junior Welterweight Title.

In the opening heavyweight bout former National amateur champion Nate James of Boston, MA, improved to 6-1-0 (2KO's) taking a majority decision in a highly spirited bout against Kevin Howard, 2-7-1, of Montgomery, Alabama. Scores were 38-38, 39-37 and 40-36.

Among the many luminaries in the sold out crowd at the unique event were the recently minted WBA Junior Welterweight Champion Paulie Malignaggi and Star Boxing's outstanding junior welterweight prospect Chris Algieri.

THE BEAT GOES ON!

Starnino, Kozlin Showdown Highlights Undercard Of CES.

The undercard for Jimmy Burchfield’s “Up For Grabs” professional boxing event at Twin River Casino on Thursday, May 24, 2012 is beginning to take shape, and several of the featured bouts could steal the show from the highly-anticipated main event between Joey Spina and Vladine Biosse.

The most notable bout is the six-round super middleweight co-feature between hometown favorites Richard “Bobo The Bull” Starnino (9-7-2, 2 KOs) of Providence and Warwick, R.I., veteran Keith Kozlin (6-3-1, 4 KOs), who is looking to end a stretch of three consecutive fights without a win.

“He’s hungry,” said Starnino, who celebrated his 40th birthday Tuesday. “He needs this as much as I do.”

“Up For Grabs” also features the return of former reality television star Richard Gingras (11-2, 7 KOs) of “The Contender,” who, after signing a promotional agreement with Classic Entertainment & Sports, will battle Terrance Smith Jr. (7-13-2, 4 KOs) of Oklahoma City in the six-round cruiserweight special attraction.

Unbeaten Burlington, Vt., super middleweight Kevin Cobbs (3-0, 1 KO) will face veteran Borngod Washington (3-10, 1 KO) of Queens, N.Y., in a four-round bout while female bantamweight Shelito Vincent (2-0) of Providence will battle newcomer Carmen Cruz of Fort Myers, Fla., in a four-round bout.

CES will also introduce another one of its most recent signings on May 24th when undefeated Medford, Oreg., heavyweight “Irish” Mike Wilson (5-0, 3 KOs) returns to the ring for the first time in 18 months in a four-round bout.

Super lightweight Zack Ramsey, a former national amateur champion from Springfield, Mass., will make his long-awaited debut while middleweight Thomas Falowo (6-0, 4 KOs) of Pawtucket, R.I., light heavyweight Alex Amparo (3-0, 2 KOs) of Providence, welterweight Diego Pereira (6-0-1, 2 KOs) and Woonsocket, R.I., middleweight Joe Gardner (8-4, 1 KO) will return to the ring in separate six-round bouts, with the exception of Gardner, who’ll fight in a four-rounder. The main event is an eight-round intrastate battle between Biosse (12-1-1, 6 KOs) and Spina (26-2-2, 18 KOs) for Biosse’s New England super middleweight title.

The card is stacked from top to bottom with the region’s most sought-after talent with the co-feature between Starnino and Kozlin looming as a potential showstopper. According to Kozlin, it’s a battle between two fighters with similar styles, who, simply put, “go forward and punch.” The only difference is Starnino’s experience, which could be the deciding factor. “There’s nothing spectacular about him,” Starnino said. “He comes straight at you.

“The toughest part for me is that at my age I’m in a fight against myself to get back to the level where I once was. I’m pretty close. For me to get ready to fight these young bucks, I’ve got to train twice as hard as everyone else. I do three sessions a day; I run, go to the gym, and then I go to the boxing gym. I’m strong, physically, but my speed and timing is what I’m fighting against.”

Like Kozlin, Starnino is looking to turn the corner after losing to unbeaten prospect Ryan McKenzie in January – Starnino’s fourth loss in his last fight fights dating back to 2008. Coincidentally, May 24th is the four-year anniversary of Starnino’s last win – a third-round knockout against Richard Royal on May 23rd, 2008 – and “Bobo The Bull” plans on celebrating with a much-needed victory now that he’s fighting on more even terms.

“The kid McKenzie was 6-foot-3,” Starnino said. “I don’t do well against taller fighters because I like to fight on the inside. It’s harder for me to do that against taller fighters because they like to fight on the outside. Keith is an inside fighter, too, and once I get hit I throw the game plan out the window.

“That’s why they call me ‘The Bull.’ I just go right at you. It’s going to be a good fight.”

This won’t be the first time two exchange blows, though it will be the first time it counts; when Kozlin began boxing professionally four years ago, he and Starnino trained at the same gym. They actually sparred against one another.

“He was one of the guys we used to beat up on,” Starnino said with a laugh. “The kid can take a beating. I used to wail on him. He got a lot better through the years. He’s got some skills, but skills can only take you so far.”

This time, it counts, and neither fighter is taking anything for granted on the 24th.

“He was the man at the gym,” Kozlin recalled. “I have a lot of respect for him, but I have to win this fight.”

Tickets for “Up For Grabs” are $35.00, $50.00, $75.00 and $125.00 (VIP) and can be purchased by calling CES at 401.724.2253/2254, online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at the Players Club booth at Twin River, or through any TicketMaster location. Doors open 6 p.m. with the first bout scheduled for 7.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Up For Grabs.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and must enter through the West entrance.)

Danny O'Connor Headlines!

Boston House of Blues On May 24TH.

Junior welterweight prospect Danny O'Connor (16-1) is busy preparing for his homecoming match under the tutelage of acclaimed trainer Ronnie Shields in Houston, Texas.

On May 24, O'Connor will headline the first professional boxing card at the Boston House of Blues against Daniel "The Hudson Valley Kid" Sostre (11-5-1) of New York in a 10-round contest.

In the shadow of Fenway Park, the night will have an appropriate Boston versus New York theme with each bout showcasing fighters battling for regional supremacy.

Framingham, Massachusetts, native O'Connor is both a 2008 junior welterweight US amateur champion and national golden gloves champion (a feet similarly accomplished by greats Sugar Ray Leonard and Tommy Hearns) as well as a 2008 Olympic alternate.

This will be O'Connor's first fight since aligning with the wildly popular band the Dropkick Murphys. The partnership's inaugural event is expected to be a sellout with the proceeds benefitting the band's charitable organization the Claddagh Fund.

Live music will also be performed in between bouts by the traditional Irish band The Old Brigade (with possible special guests).

The shared vision of O'Connor and the Dropkick Murphys is to reach the top of the boxing world, while restoring the proud tradition of Boston boxing, developing a truly unique fan base called Clan O'Connor, and creating special events that are part sports and part rock-n-roll.

O'Connor explains, "The boxing business is a tough business, but at the end of the day, it's the entertainment business. Together with the Dropkicks, I think we can create something special in Boston and beyond. I'm so excited for the future and putting on shows where the fans have so many entertainment options. The ability to raise money for charity is the cherry on top."

The House of Blues provides a unique three tiered setting with excellent vantage points reminiscent of classic boxing venues. The remaining standing-room-only tickets properly accommodate O'Connor's rowdy and rock-n-roll inspired fan base.

Tickets to Boston vs. New York can be purchased directly at http://www.livenation.com/event/0100486DDD72B8B2.

For more information regarding the May 24th fight visit www.dannyoconnorboxing.com.

Additionally, to learn more about Dropkick Murphys charity and the causes they advocate for visit www.claddaghfund.org.

Don't forget to follow Danny on Twitter at @DOC_Boxing.

Irish Invasion!

Streaming May 12TH.

The entire May 12th "Irish Invasion" card, headlined by undefeated Irish super featherweight prospect Patrick "The Punisher" Hyland (25-0, 11 KOs), will be streamed online live at www.ustream.tv/bslive.

Hyland takes on veteran Frankie Archuleta (27-9-1, 14 KOs) in the 10-round main event, at Mid-Hudson Civic Center in Poughkeepsie, New York.

"Irish Invasion" is being presented by Final Round Promotions, in association with Team Snooki Boxing and Bob Duffy's Ring Promotions, and sponsored in part by Title Boxing.

Viewers may register now to watch "Irish Invasion" by going to www.ustream.tv/bslive for $15.00. Check for replay details.

Calling all of the action from ringside will be Randy Gordon, who hosts "Friday Night at the Fights" on Sirius XM Satellite Radio along with co-host "Gentleman" Gerry Cooney. The well-known and highly-respected Gordon served as Chairman of the New York State Athletic Commission from 1988-1995, as well as Editor-in-Chief of The Ring Magazine (1979-1983) and Boxing Illustrated. He has been an on-air commentator for ESPN, USA Network, SportsChannel, MSG Network, FNN, CNN, KMOX and WFAN.

Yonkers (NY) super featherweight Chazz McDowell (5-1, 1 KOs) faces Cuban-born Yuniel Ramos in the six-round co-feature, while Canadian light welterweight Natasha Spencer (3-0-1, 2 KOs) tangles with Racquel Bailey (1-1-1) in a six-round female match. Unbeaten Maryland light heavyweight prospect Thomas Williams, Jr. (7-0, 4 KOs) fights an opponent to be determined in a six-round bout.

Also fighting on the undercard in separate four-round bouts are undefeated Newburgh light welterweight favorite Treysean Wiggins (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. Larenzo Wilson (1-1-1), New York City light middleweight Valdrin Muriqi (2-1) vs. Philip Burnette (2-3, 1 KOs), former USA Mid-American middleweight champion Bryant "The Spartan" Pappas (13-0-1, 13 KOs) vs. Josh Williams (5-4, 4 KOs), Brooklyn super middleweight Travis "The Notorious" Peterkin (4-0, 3 KOs) vs. TBA, and Waterbury (CT) light welterweight Jair Ramos (2-0, 1 KO) vs. Anthony "Pride of Virginia" Royal (0-1-1). All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Pappas, a sergeant in the Yonkers Police Department, is a cancer survivor who is donating his purse to cancer research. Team Snooki Boxing is donating $1.00 from each sold ticket to Rolling Thunder, Chapter III New York to support needy U.S. military veterans.

Tickets, reasonably priced at $35.00, $50.00 and $100.00 (Gold Ringside), are available to purchase at the Mid-Hudson Civic Center and through all Ticketmaster outlets.

Doors open at 6:30 PM/ET with the first bout scheduled for 7:30 PM/ET. Go to www.teamsnookiboxing.com for additional information.

Mikkel Kessler!

I Am Hitting Harder Than Ever.

On May 19, Mikkel Kessler will move up in weight, clashing with Allan Green for the WBC Light Heavyweight World Championship (Silver). Today the Viking Warrior opened his gym during a media workout in Copenhagen. Here is what the three-time world champion had to say about his preparation for a historic night of entertainment at Denmark´s most famous football stadium, which also features the live screening of the UEFA Champions League Final and a top undercard.

Q: For the first time of your career, you will be fighting at light heavyweight. How has the training been going?

MK: “Brilliant. I have put on some pounds and I am hitting harder than ever. And I must say I haven´t lost any of my speed either. Going up to light heavyweight has given me much more one-punch KO power.”

Q: You haven´t fought since last June. You must be thrilled to be back.

MK: “Absolutely. It has been so hard to be away from the ring. At the moment I am taking it out everyday on my sparring partners. My coach Jimmy Montoya had to ask me to calm down and take things easy. I am really fired up and can´t wait to get it on with Allan Green.”

Q: What do you think of him?

MK: “I have actually been thinking a lot about him. He is always on my mind, when I go to sleep and when I wake up. We have analyzed his every move, so there will be no surprises on May 19. He is fast and he is strong, but I am going to teach him a lesson when we meet at PARKEN.”

Q: What kind of lesson?

MK: “Well, he will get the first taste of my new KO power. He is going to be the first person I hit without head guard and sparring gloves. It will be an unpleasant experience for him. He is a big puncher with a lot of power, but punchers usually don´t like to get hit. They have a big punch but not a good chin. I don´t think Green will last for 12 rounds in the same ring with me, but he will ultimately find out on May 19.”

Badou Jack!

I'm Going to Beat Him Up.

Undefeated super middleweight Badou Jack "The Ripper" (10-0, 8 KOs) of Sweden says he's planning on having a great time when he makes his ShoBox: The New Generation debut on Friday, May 11against Colombia's also undefeated Alexander Brand (17-0, 15 KOs).

The pair will meet as part of a livedoubleheadertelecast (11 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME®, delayed on the West Coast) entitled "Shootout at Texas Station", presented by Warriors Boxing live from the Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel in Las Vegas, headlined by Cuba's Yudel Jhonson (12-0, 8 KOs) taking on Cleveland's Willie "The Great" Nelson (17-1-1, 11 KOs) in the 10-round light middleweight main event.

"He seems like a wild puncher who doesn't have the best defense," said Jack of opponent Brand. "I'm gonna beat him up and have fun. I like guys like this that throw wide shots."

This will be Jack's first fight at 168 lbs, but the former Olympian says he'll have no trouble making weight, having done his preparation at Floyd Mayweather's gym with trainer Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, and sparring with respected contenders like Ishe Smith and J Leon Love.

"To see how Floyd trains motivates me to work even harder. I feel good I like to mix it up, box and pressure my opponent. I can do it all and I can't wait to show everybody my skills and put on an exciting fight for the crowd and the TV viewers. I'm learning so much from my trainer Eddie Mustafa. I'm definitely in my prime right now. I just need more experience."

Jack says that while his victory is assured, it is Brand who will decide how things unfold. "It depends. If he's trying to win, we'll go home early, but if he runs and just tries to survive, sometimes it can be hard to stop a guy who don't' want to fight. I won't go out there looking for the knockout, but if it comes, it comes."

Tickets for "Shootout at Texas Station" are on sale now, priced at $27 and $52 and are available at Ticketmaster, any Texas Station rewards center or at SCLV.COM/CONCERTS. A few VIP seats are available at a price of $102 can be purchased by calling (954) 985-1155.

On fight night, doors open at 6:30 and the action starts at 7:00 pm.

Station Bucks may be used to purchase tickets. All ages welcome. Under 21 must be accompanied by an adult 21 or over. Show subject to change without notice. Management reserves all rights. Digital Photography and video prohibited. Tickets can be purchased at any Station Casinos Boarding Pass Rewards Center, The Fiesta's, by logging onto stationcasinos.com/concerts or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel is located at 2101 Texas Star Lane in North Las Vegas. Telephone: (702) 631-1000 or (800) 654-8888.

Fight Night At The Horseshoe!

May 25TH.

Hitz Boxing's blockbuster Fight Night at the Hammond event, scheduled for May 25 at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana, just got even more exciting with the announcement of the co-featured bout.

31-year-old Chicago native and UFC, Strikeforce, Affliction and King of the Cage MMA star Terry Martin (5-0, 5 KOs) will roll the boxing dice and put his perfect undefeated record on the line against Atlanta, Georgia's also undefeated Donta Woods (8-0, 7 KOs) in an explosive cruiserweight six-rounder.

The two power punchers will meet as the main supporting bout to the 10-round WBA Fedelatin Heavyweight Championship main event between "Fast" Fres Oquendo (33-7, 21 KOs) and Joey "Minnesota Ice" Abell (28-5, 27 KOs).

Martin holds Bachelor of Science degree, a Master's Degree, and is working toward a PhD., and also frequently visits schools, churches and community centers to speak to young people about the value of staying in school. An impressive 22-9 in MMA, hammer-fisted Martin stands 5' 8" and packs power in both hands.

Woods enjoyed a long and successful amateur career, competing internationally and winning the 2005 Ringside National Championships, among many other distinctions.

He stands 6' 2" and has an especially impressive body attack.

"Someone's 0 will go and probably by a knockout in this fight," said event promoter, Bobby Hitz of Hitz Boxing. "When power punchers like these two meet up, it's always a treat for the fans and we're happy they have both agreed to fight."

Also on the undercard:

Mike "Hollywood" Jimenez (6-0, 3 KOs) will go six rounds against Everett, Washington's Adrian Hermann (3-3-1, 1 KO); undefeated power puncher David Martin III (5-0, 4 KOS) of Hobart, Indiana, will face Tim Washington (0-1) of Toledo, Ohio, in a heavyweight four-rounder; undefeated heavyweight David "Diesel" Latoria (10-0, 5 KOS) will go six against Gary, Indiana's Stanley Allen (5-3, 3 KOs); nearby Chesterton, Indiana, heavyweight Philip Triantafillo (2-0, 1 KO) will fight a four-rounder against the more experienced Emerson Chasing Bear (4-3-2, 3 KOs) of Rapid City, South Dakota.

The opponent for light welterweight Genaro Mendez's (4-1-1, 3 KOS) six-round fight is still TBA.

The high-class atmosphere and luxurious surroundings the Horseshoe has to offer make their boxing shows a Las Vegas-style night of boxing that Chicago-area fans don't have to get on a plane to enjoy.

The Horseshoe Casino has an intimate, comfortable venue with luxurious seats, a spectacular gaming area, free parking, exquisite food and all the amenities -- and is just 20 minutes from Downtown Chicago.

Tickets for "Fight Night at the Horseshoe" are on sale now, starting at a fan appreciation price of $10, and are available atthe "Venue" box office, ticketmaster.com and all Ticketmaster outlets.

SOSZYNSKI SIGNS WITH SQUARE RING!

SOSZYNSKI SIGNS WITH ROY JONES, JR.

“We are pleased to announce the signing of Grzegorz Soszynski to an exclusive promotional agreement with Roy Jones, Jr.’s Square Ring Promotions,” said Square Ring CEO, John Wirt. “I’d like to thank Gregory and his managers, Radek Konder and Wes Chylicki for their professionalism and assistance in closing this deal. We understand that Gregory and his team had a choice and are confident that we will be able to showcase his talent and entertaining style of fighting to boxing fans.”

“Gregory is a very entertaining and skilled fighter, and I’m looking forward to promoting his fights. And as the No. 3 top light heavyweight from Poland based in Chicago, we think that there are number of great opportunities available to him both here in the U.S. as well as overseas,” said Roy Jones, Jr., President of Square Ring.

Soszynski (21-1-1, 10 KO’s) is the former International Polish Light Heavyweight Champion and trains in Chicago with highly regarded Sam Colona. “Grzegorz is not only a very good boxer but also a great human being. We clicked from the beginning perfectly, and I wish every trainer could have a fighter with his skills and dedication to hard work,” said Colonna.

After four months of training in Chicago at the Chicago Boxing Club, Soszynski, in his first fight in the US, soundly defeated Rayco Saunders in an unanimous decision to win the IBF North America Light Heavyweight Championship. “Every fighter dreams about fulfilling his dream, his potential, and I know that signing with Square Ring was the right move and will give me an opportunity to do just that, and I plan to seize on that opportunity,” said Soszynski.

Nelson V Jhonson!

ShoBox: The New Generation.

Cleveland's once-beaten Willie "The Great" Nelson (17-1-1, 11 KOs) will step in to face Cuba's Yudel Jhonson (12-0, 8 KOs) in the 10-round junior middleweight main event of the ShoBox: The New Generation telecast presented by Warriors Boxing, entitled "Shootout at Texas Station", scheduled for Friday, May 11 (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast), from the Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel in Las Vegas.

Original Jhonson opponent, Freddy Hernandez, has been forced to pull out with an injury.

In addition, East Los Angeles lightweight Aalan Martinez has also been forced to pull out of his eight-round bout against Rances "Kid Blast" Barthelemy. Barthelemy (15-0, 11 KOs) will still fight an opponent to be determined but his bout will not be televised.

The eight-round co-featured battle of undefeated super middleweights Badou Jack "The Ripper" (10-0, 8 KOs) of Sweden and Colombia's power-punching Alexander Brand (17-0, 15 KOs) will go on as scheduled.

Cleveland, Ohio's 25-year-old Willie "The Great" Nelson (16-0-1, 10 KOs) stands an enormous 6' 3" and has a massive 76-inch reach. Before turning pro at age 18, the quick-fisted southpaw had over 230 fights as an amateur and was ranked #1 in the United States. He is also a former USA and European amateur champion.

In January of this year, Nelson rebounded from the only loss of his career (last April via majority decision to Vincent Arroyo) by scoring a TKO 2 over Brad Jackson. Nelson is in shape, as he was originally scheduled to fight May 18 in Missouri.

Also a southpaw, Jhonson was the Pan American Junior Champion at light fly in 1998 and the Cuban National Champion at welterweight in 2002 before capturing a silver medal at the 2004 Olympic Games. Overall, he went 379-16 in the amateurs while winning numerous titles.

The 5-foot-10, 30-year-old Jhonson is coming off a third-round TKO over Eduardo Mercedes last October 15 in the Dominican Republic.

"It is unfortunate that Freddy Hernandez got injured," said event promoter Leon Margules. "But in his place steps Willie Nelson, which I think makes the main event an even better, more significant fight on the world stage. This will be a tremendous battle between two young, strong, up-and-coming contenders."

Tickets for "Shootout at Texas Station" are on sale now, priced at $27 and $52 and are available at Ticketmaster, any Texas Station rewards center or at SCLV.COM/CONCERTS. A few VIP seats are available at a price of $102 can be purchased by calling (954) 985-1155.

On fight night, doors open at 6:30 and the action starts at 7:00 pm.

Station Bucks may be used to purchase tickets. All ages welcome. Under 21 must be accompanied by an adult 21 or over. Show subject to change without notice. Management reserves all rights. Digital Photography and video prohibited. Tickets can be purchased at any Station Casinos Boarding Pass Rewards Center, The Fiesta's, by logging onto stationcasinos.com/concerts or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel is located at 2101 Texas Star Lane in North Las Vegas. Telephone: (702) 631-1000 or (800) 654-8888.

Sdunek V Wegner!

"Saturday I Will Be Up 2:1 Against Wegner".

Normally at a press conference only the fighters of the main event are in the spotlight. But this was not the case on Wednesday afternoon in Erfurt. The spectators of the big fight night on May 5 are also keen to find out which coach comes up with the better strategy for the world championship bout between the cruiserweights Marco Huck and Ola Afolabi.

Hence the two coaching legends of German boxing, Ulli Wegner and Fritz Sdunek, did not hold back at the conference. But before they got started, the WBO champion himself had a few things to say. “Ola Afolabi is a really tough guy. But mentally I am very strong. Therefore he won´t get my title,” said Huck. This is the second time that the 27-year-old will be boxing at the Messehalle in Erfurt and he is extremely happy to do so. His first fight here, back in August 2010, ended with a KO victory over the American Matt Godfrey. “The fans here are extremely enthusiastic about boxing so it is amazing that they will get to witness such a great show.”

But of course Ola Afolabi has a very different view and already sees himself as the new WBO cruiserweight champion. “My experience is now so big, due to the professional surroundings of Fritz Sdunek and K2 promotions, that it is not possible for me to walk out of the ring as the loser. I will give Marco a boxing lesson and if he tries anything crazy I will knock him out”, said the Brit.

Fritz Sdunek, Afolabi`s coach, is looking forward to his third encounter with his rival Ulli Wegner. Back in 2000, he won the first battle with Wegner when Vitali Klitschko fought off Timo Hoffmann. In August 2007, Wegner then got one back on Sdunek as his prodigy Arthur Abraham knocked out Khoren Gevor in round eleven who back then was coached by Sdunek. “I am very excited to once again see Ulli in the opposite corner,” said Sdunek. And he is not surprised by the optimism of his own fighter Afolabi. “Ola lives in Hollywood. They do talk very fondly of themselves over there. Also Marco´s break after the Povetkin encounter at the heavyweight division was quite short. That must have taken its toll and it might be too early for him to take on one of my fighters. On Saturday we will leave the arena victorious and I will be in the lead with 2:1 against Ulli.”

But Wegner, who just turned 70 last Thursday, was not just going to take this little tease quietly. “The challenges in the cruiserweight division are much bigger than the heavyweights,” according to the nine-time coach-of-the-year. “And it is a pleasant coincidence that the coach of Marco`s challenger is my old friend Fritz.” Wegner continued: “Both men have grown since their last encounter back in 2009. Not too long ago, I have been praising Marco for sticking to the tactics during his fights. If he manages to do the same again on Saturday he will win once again.”

Super-Middleweight Robert Stieglitz is also planning to leave the ring victorious. The WBO champion will face off with the Australian Nader Hamdan. The winner of the bout will then have to face Arthur Abraham, the mandatory challenger, in the next fight.

“Right know I am not even thinking about facing Arthur,“ said Stieglitz. “I am only concentrating on the next fight. As soon as I have won the bout on Saturday night, we can start talking about Arthur Abraham.”

But his opponent Nader Hamdan is planning to grab his chance with both hands. “I didn’t think twice about accepting the fight as I have nothing to lose.”

The third part of the main event, the fight for the vacant European Heavyweight Title, also promises to be very exciting. Kubrat Pulev, the prodigy of coach Otto Ramin, also knows that it will be a thrilling encounter. “I don´t want to say too much about the fight. The only thing I will say though is that I will win,” said the 30-year-old.

The former heavyweight champion of Europe, Alexander Dimitrenko, was very optimistic himself. “I have been in this business for quite a while now and I am not even in my thirties yet. I have been through ups and downs. Therefore experience-wise I am in front and it will show on Saturday.”

Bailey V Jones!

June 9TH.

Two-time world champion Randall "The Knock-out King" Bailey, arguably the biggest pound-for-pound single puncher in boxing, finally gets an opportunity to exorcise years of demon-like frustrations on June 9, when he takes on unbeaten Mike Jones for the vacant International Boxing Federation ("IBF") Welterweight Championship, in the 12-round co-feature on the Manny Pacquiao-Timothy Bradley pay-per-view card, live from MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

For years, Bailey (42-7, 36 KOs) has been considered too much of a risk for some of today's brightest stars. Awesome, one-punch knockout ability will do just that to a fighter's reputation like Bailey's. Ask Jackson Isei Bonsu and Frankie Figueroa, two of Bailey's 36 knockout victims, who were literally out cold before they hit the mat, after getting chin-checked by a powerful Randall right.

"Randall Bailey has been frustrated most of his career," his longtime manager Si Stern said. "He is unquestionably the strongest puncher in the world today and, I know this may sound crazy to some, maybe in boxing history. Just look at his knockout record. He's been shunned by a lot of top fighters out there today. Why? They know Randall can take them out with one punch. History tells us that dangerous punchers like Randall have always been avoided.

"Jones (IBF #1) didn't want to fight Randall (IBF #2), either. The IBF pushed the issue and said that Jones had to fight Randall or he'd lose his world title shot. Once he wins the world title again - he was too young when he was world champion - he knows the money will follow and that's what has kept Randall going. He has no fear of Mayweather, Pacquiao or any of the other top welterweights. Randall knows that he can knock out any of them because of his power. Mayweather doesn't want to fight Randall, who loves stand-up fighters like Pacquiao. His past problems have been against opponents who hit and run. Guys who stand and fight have never been a problem for Randall."

The 37-year-old Bailey, now promoted by DiBella Entertainment, made his pro debut in 1996, when Jones was sweet sixteen. Randall won his first 21 pro fights, all by knockouts, including his World Boxing Organization ("WBO") light welterweight title-winning performance against Carlos Gonzalez in 1999, followed by two successful title defenses against Hector Lopez and Rocky Martinez. In 2002, Bailey stopped Demetrio Ceballos in the third round to become the Interim World Boxing Association ("WBA") Light Welterweight Champion.

After losing his IBF 140-pound title shot in 2009 to Juan Urango, Bailey moved up in weight to welterweight, and he is unbeaten in four fights in that division with three victories, including the Bonsu knockout in their IBF title eliminator, and a no decision.

"I pleaded with him to get out of the 140-pound division," Stern note. "He walks around at 154 pounds, so making weight is no longer a struggle for him at welterweight. I bet he's within a few pounds of making weight for the Jones fight right now, working out in Florida with his trainer, John David Jackson. Jones has never fought anybody like Randall Bailey; he will knock out Jones."

Five of Bailey's seven career losses have been to world champions: Urango, Miguel Cotto, Ener Julio, and Diosbelys Hurtado. Randall has defeated three world champions: Gonzalez, Corley, and Juan Polo Perez.

Like fine wine, Randall Bailey keeps getting better with age, something Stern believes Jones will discover June 9, probably at the end of single, concussive punch.

Spina V Biosse!

Now It’s For Real.

As the two super middleweights stood toe-to-toe for the first time since signing their respective names on the dotted line, the reality began to set in for both Vladine Biosse and Joey Spina.

“Now I know it’s right there,” Spina said after chatting with reporters at Tuesday’s informal press gathering at the Providence Downtown Marriott. “A lot of times in my career, I’ve gotten my hopes up and things have fallen through. Now I know it’s here, and it’s going to happen. I’m excited.”

The battle for bragging rights in the city of Providence is less than a month away, and the pre-fight hype is beginning to reach its boiling point. Battle lines have been drawn throughout New England as fight fans and boxing aficionados carefully choose sides.

Will Biosse’s athleticism set the tone, or will Spina’s trademark power be the difference?

Local fight fans will find out Thursday, May 24th, 2012 when Biosse defends his New England super middleweight title against the “K.O. Kid” in the eight-round main event of “Up For Grabs,” presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports at the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, R.I. The showdown between these two Providence natives has been dubbed the biggest fight to hit the Ocean State in more than a decade.

“The city is mine,” Biosse said. “I am the super middleweight champion. I have defended the title plenty of times. Of course, I have a lot of respect for Joey for what he’s done in the game. He’s done an incredible job, but I think I’m being underestimated being the new guy in Rhode Island. Joey’s counting on his hard punching or whatever, but we all need to remember I do have a hand also, and I do knock people out.

“A lot of people are discounting my power. I’m able to box and I’m able to punch, so it’s going to be a great night. Whoever doesn’t see this fight is going to miss a lot.”

Biosse (12-1-1, 6 KOs) appeared calm as ever Tuesday afternoon as he and Spina (26-2-2, 18 KOs) exchanged pleasantries between interviews with the assembled press.

The buzz developing in Rhode Island has brought out the best in both fighters, but neither Spina or Biosse have lost their competitive edge, an attribute built through years of hard-earned victories and ring wars most fighters in this neck of the woods have yet to experience. There’s mutual respect on both sides, but neither fighter has even begun considering the possibility of losing.

“Everyone knows Vladine is a well-conditioned athlete,” Spina said, “but if he fights me the way I want him to fight me, it’s going to be an easy night.”

On paper, Spina has the edge in experience, having fought 30 professional bouts since his debut in 2001. Four years into his career, he captured the World Boxing Council U.S. National Boxing Council (WBC USNBC) super middleweight title – a belt he defended three times – with a win over Carl Daniels, and eventually earned a spot among the Top 10 light heavyweights (175 pounds) in the world before losing to Providence’s Peter Manfredo Jr. in 2006. The “K.O. Kid” also captured the International Boxing Federation (IBF) Inter-Continental title with a knockout win over Jay Pina.

“He’s the bigger, stronger, more experienced fighter,” Spina’s trainer, Jose Santos, said of his protégé. “He’s been in there with top-quality fighters. Vladine, he’s a great athlete, but I just think the transition from being a great, great athlete to being a real fighter at this level is going to be too great for him.”

“[Spina] hasn’t wanted it more than he wants it now, especially coming off a fight. He’s been telling me, ‘I want to fight back-to-back.’ Mr. Burchfield is giving him that opportunity, albeit against a tough opponent, but I don’t think it’s as tough an opponent as some of the guys he’s been in there with when you consider the experience level. I think it might be a little overwhelming for [Biosse].”

Santos has worked against Biosse before; he worked veteran John Mackey’s corner in October when Mackey fought to a draw against Biosse at Twin River – Biosse’s first fight since his lone loss to Denis Grachev in May of 2011.

“I thought [Biosse] lost,” Santos said. “Every round, Mackey would come back to the corner and say, ‘This is like sparring. This is easy for me.’ And Joey’s no Mackey. Vla’s a great guy and a good fighter, but I just don’t know if he’s going to be able to withstand the pressure and punching power.”

Led by head trainer Orlondo Valles, Biosse’s camp is confident it has pinpointed Spina’s strengths and weaknesses, noting Spina’s penchant for dominating fights from the outside with looping left hooks and overhand rights. Valles’ plan is to work the body, thereby neutralizing Spina’s reach advantage.

“It depends on which Vladine shows up,” Valles said. “If the real Vladine shows up, he’ll win the fight easily.

“Vla is an inside fighter. I’m not putting anything past Joey, because he’s strong, but his bread and butter punch is his left hook and sometimes his overhand right. When you fight someone with a powerful hook, you don’t want to give them the leverage to hit you with the power. I think if Vla can stay on the inside, he can beat Joey. If he makes a mistake on the outside and gets caught with a lucky shot, it’s going to be a long night – and a scary night.”

Although Manfredo Jr. utilized a similar game plan to beat him six years ago, Spina appears unfazed by what Valles and Biosse have in store for him on the 24th.

“All I need is six inches to punch,” Spina said. “I’m too big and physical strong. I walk around between 215 and 220 pounds. I’ve boxed heavyweights to cruiserweights – the best in the world. Size, to me, doesn’t matter. His walk-around weight is 175. That’s just too small for me.”

Tickets for “Up For Grabs” are $35.00, $50.00, $75.00 and $125.00 (VIP) and can be purchased by calling CES at 401.724.2253/2254, online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at the Players Club booth at Twin River, or through any TicketMaster location. Doors open 6 p.m. with the first bout scheduled for 7.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Up For Grabs.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and must enter through the West entrance.)

Oquendo V Abell!

Hitz Grateful To Abell For Agreeing To Oquendo Bout.

The promoter of long-time heavyweight contender "Fast" Fres Oquendo (33-7, 21 KOs) commends Oquendo's next opponent, Minnesota's Joey "Minnesota Ice" Abell (28-5, 27 KOs), for agreeing to fight.

Oquendo and Abell will meet for the WBA Fedelatin Heavyweight Championship in the 10-round main event of Hitz Boxing's latest "Fight Night at the Horseshoe" event on Friday, May 25, 2012, at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana. The bout is presented by Hitz Boxing in conjunction with Roy Jones Jr.'s Square Ring Promotions.

"We sent challenges out to a bunch of guys," said promoter Bobby Hitz. "Chris Arreola, Bryant Jennings, Seth Mitchell, the list goes on, and none of them are willing to fight him. Abell was the only one with the balls to step up."

Similar to fellow Chicagoan Carlos Molina, the majority of Oquendo's losses have been of a questionable nature. He dropped horrid decisions to Jean-Marc Mormeck and Oliver McCall in two of his last three fights.

Hitz says Oquendo losing two of his last three should have been a flashing green light for up-and-coming heavyweights to try and add a notable opponent to their resume, but such was not the case.

"It makes you wonder about the future of the sport and especially the heavyweight division when not one young contender is willing to accept a challenge."

Hitz also gives credit to his fighter for taking such a potentially dangerous fight off-TV, just to stay busy. "Joey Abell has 27 knockouts in 28 wins. He can crack. You have to admire a guy like Fres who would choose a puncher like this as his opponent for a non-televised show in front of his hometown fans."

The high-class atmosphere and luxurious surroundings the Horseshoe has to offer make their boxing shows a Las Vegas-style night of boxing that Chicago-area fans don't have to get on a plane to enjoy.

The Horseshoe Casino has an intimate, comfortable venue with luxurious seats, a spectacular gaming area, free parking, exquisite food and all the amenities -- and is just 20 minutes from Downtown Chicago.

Tickets for "Fight Night at the Horseshoe" are on sale now, starting at a fan appreciation price of $10, and are available atthe "Venue" box office, ticketmaster.com and all Ticketmaster outlets.

Viloria V Romero III!

PPV Promo Spots.

"Island Assault 4: The Battle," presented by Solar Sports, is being distributed in the United States by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing May 12 at 9:00 PM/ET - 6:00 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, DISH Network and Avail-TVN for a suggested retail price of only $29.95. "Island Assault 4: The Battle" will also be available in Canada to Super Channel subscribers. For on-line PPV viewers go to Ustream.tv at http://www.ustream.tv/integratedsportsppv.

The 12-round main event features three-time world champion Brian "Hawaiian Punch" Viloria (30-3, 16 KOs), a 2000 U.S. Olympian, defending his "WBO" title belt against two-time world title-holder Omar Nino Romero (31-4-2, 13 KOs), in the 12-round main event, airing live from Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City, Metro Manila, Philippines. Viloria won his first 20 pro fights until he lost the World Boxing Council ("WBC") light flyweight championship to Romero by way of a 12-round unanimous decision in 2006. Three months later, their rematch ended in a draw that was later changed to a "no contest" when Romero failed a post-fight drug test.

STAR BOXING SOLD OUT!

VIP BOXING III.

Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing has announced that all tickets have been sold for VIP BOXING III, set for Tomorrow Night, May 2nd, at Russo's On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

The full service VIP event will kick off at 7pm with an hour long cocktail reception followed by a four course elegant dinner and the first bout starting at 8pm. An open bar will run for the course of the dinner and evening's bouts.

Headlining VIP BOXING III is the return of longtime heavyweight contender and fan favorite Vinny Maddalone of nearby Flushing, Queens, in a scheduled ten round bout against tough Youngstown, Ohio veteran Chris Koval.

Sporting a record of 34-7-0 with 25 knockouts, Maddalone looks to continue his momentum following a first round knockout of Mike Sheppard on October 22nd in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

The 29-year-old Koval enters the clash with a record of 25-8-0 with 18 stoppages including battles with notable names Shannon Briggs, Alexander Dimitrenko, Travis Kaufman and Tye Fields.

The co-main event at VIP BOXING III features an eight round junior welterweight tilt between former world title challenger "Mighty" Mike Arnaoutis of Astoria, New York and Albany's Broderick Antoine.

A native of Athens, Greece, Arnaoutis, 23-7-0 (10KO's), kicked off his 2012 campaign with a shutout unanimous decision over Shakha Moore on February 10th at the Mohegan Sun Casino.

Over the course of his ten year professional career, Arnaoutis has battled with numerous champions and contenders including Delvin Rodriguez, Victor Ortiz, Kendall Holt, Ricardo Torres, Juan Urango and Demetrius Hopkins.

Upset minded Antoine looks to even his record of 11-12-1 (5KO's), entering the ring against Arnaoutis. Included among the notable contenders and prospects he has clashed with over his five year career are Sharif Bogere, Danny O'Connor, Angelo Santana and Felix Diaz.

In an additional eight round junior welterweight battle, highly regarded prospect Issouf Kinda of New York City will battle Newburgh, New York's Luis Rodriguez.

The 24-year-old Kinda, 12-0-0 (5KO's), a native of Burkina Faso, has turned heads and impressed with each outing over the last four years while fighting in the New York City area. In his last start on January 28th, Kinda won an eight round decision over the very tough Puerto Rican veteran Angel Rios at The Paramount in Huntington, Long Island.

Also 24 years old, Rodriguez, 6-4-1 (1KO), a native of Puerto Rico, has won three of his last four including three in a row in New York State.

Rounding out the card at VIP BOXING III, heavyweights will see action in a scheduled four rounder as Boston's Nate James, 5-1-0 (2KO's) challenges Kevin Howard of Montgomery, Alabama.

Russo's On The Bay is located at 162-45 Cross Bay Boulevard in Howard Beach. For more information please visit their website at www.russosonthebay.com

HATTON BREAKS SILENCE ON SKY SPLIT!

Ricky Hatton Breaks Sky Split Silence.

RICKY HATTON has vowed to give his talent stacked stable a new television home after Hatton Promotions split from Sky Sports.

The boxing world was shocked when the television network decided not to give the European Promoters of the Year any further dates after their Manchester Velodrome super show on Saturday June 16.

Former two-weight world champion Hatton has played a huge part in Sky’s success story in the last decade earning them millions and breaking British television pay-per-view records.

But Hatton who has produced many champions in less than three years as a promoter believes it is a new beginning for his mushrooming brand that includes a member’s gym, a clothing range and a TV network.

The Hitman said: “The news came as a blow and I feel we have been unfairly treated, but there are meetings already set up with other TV channels.

“Next season I am very confident that my fighters will have a big television platform to perform on.

“I have a great stable of fighters, many champions and a hard working team. TV companies have contacted me – not me them which is encouraging.

“It shows the great promotions I have staged for Sky hasn’t gone unnoticed.

“Last month I promoted a potential Fight of the Year between Anthony Crolla and Derry Mathews for Sky and we’re staging the ‘Road to Glory’ card next month which will be our final Sky date.

“When I started promoting three years ago my plan was to build a successful stable and produce champions.

“I have done that, producing many British, Commonwealth, European and International champions, and world title challengers.

“Just as Hatton Promotions were making their mark, Sky Sports have told me we haven’t got any more dates after the June 16 card.”

Hatton Promotions were told that their contract was not being renewed in a short e-mail from Sky’s Head of Sport, Barney Francis almost two weeks ago.

He added: “The most disappointing aspect of it all is the relationship I had with Sky until almost two weeks ago.

“It isn’t rocket science to work out how well I did for Sky Sports as a boxer and a promoter.

“I was their first world champion to come through without terrestrial TV, gave them their biggest Box Office successes ever and helped make them millions of pounds.

“They repaid me by telling me I had no more dates by e-mail. There was no phone call to me or anything like that and even the e-mail was sent to my Director of Boxing, Richard Poxon – not me.

“If you finish with a girlfriend by e-mail all your mates would be calling you some right names. I obviously have better morals than they do.

“Since the news broke it is amazing the amount of support shown towards Hatton Promotions from fans, journalists and even rival promoters.

“Hatton Promotions isn’t going anywhere and we will be back on TV in the new season delivering high class shows for a new broadcast partner.”

Hatton Promotions final Sky bill on June 16 is their biggest ever and proof of the quality in their stable.

LINE UP: Scott Quigg v Rendall Munroe (vacant WBA interim super-bantamweight title), Ryan Rhodes v Sergey Rabchenko (vacant European light-middleweight title), Martin Murray v S/O (Title to be announced), Richard Towers v Michael Wallisch (vacant EU heavyweight title), Craig Watson v S/O, Adam Etches v S/O, Scott Jenkins v S/O, Ryan Doyle v S/O, Jimmy Kelly v S/O.

Ticket prices are now on sale priced £125 (VIP Inner Ringside + exclusive cash bar), £100 Ringside, £55, £35 and £30. You can purchase tickets by calling Hatton Promotions hotline 01925 755 222/www.ticketmaster.co.uk/0844 847 2500/www.ticketline.co.uk/0844 888 4402/www.hmv.com

Bombs Away On Long Island!

May 17TH In Franklin Square, NY.

Professional boxing returns May 17 to the Plattduetsche Park Restaurant in Franklin Square, New York as Bob Duffy's Ring Promotions, in association with Winner Take All Productions, presents "Bombs Away On Long Island," showcasing many of Long Island's most popular and promising prospects.

Long Island-based boxers on the card include Joe "The Irish Bomber" Smith, Jr. (9-1, 9 KOs), Cletus "The Hebrew Hammer" Seldin (7-0, 5 KOs), Ronson Frank (16-0, 8 KOs), Tommy "The Razor" Rainone (17-4, 4 KOs) and Mike "Lefty" Brooks (6-0, 1 KO).

"I am really looking forward to fighting on Long Island again," Brooks spoke on behalf of all the Long Island boxers. "This group of fighters came up through the ranks together. Fans are going to see the best boxing that The Island has to offer."

Former nationally ranked amateur boxer Brooks, fighting out of Oceanside, returns to the ring for the first time in two years against Ohio lightweight Calvin "The Gladiator" Pritchard in a six-round bout.

"Bombs Away On Long Island," sponsored by Westbury Jeep and Westbury Fiat, marks the return of promoter Bob Duffy, who has been on a two-year hiatus from boxing as a promoter due to his work as president of Ring 8 and founding the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame. He is teaming up with Winner Take All Productions, owned and operated by David Schuster, who is the Executive Producer of the critically acclaimed off-Broadway play, "Kid Shamrock."

"We look forward to bringing a highly entertaining, competitive card to Long Island," Duffy remarked. "There is a rich boxing tradition here and some of these kids are going to be writing their own chapters in Long Island's boxing history. I was going through a transition period the past few years and I'm very happy to be back promoting, especially working on this show with David Schuster and his staff. I'm confident that this is the first of many shows in New York that we'll be working together on."

The main event is an eight-round match featuring undefeated light welterweight Emmanuel Lartei "Bukom Joe" Lartey (12-01, 7 KOs), a former African and Ghanaian champion now living in New York City, against USA Mid-American welterweight title-holder Boyd Henley (9-1-1, 8 KOs), who fights out of Kansas City, Missouri.

Guyana-native Frank (16-0, 8 KOs), who lives in Rosedale, is rated No. 7 by the North American Boxing Federation ("NABF") and No. 15 by the North American Boxing Organization ("NABO"). The younger brother of past world title challengers Steve and Raul Frank, undefeated light heavyweight prospect Ronson takes on former WBF US cruiserweight champion Chris Eppley (10-2, 9 KOs) in the six-round co-feature.

Former New York Golden Gloves champion Smith, a cruiserweight from Shirley, Brooklyn welterweight Seldin, and Plainview welterweight Rainone all face opponents to soon be determined in six-round fights

Also fighting on the undercard in four-round bouts are former National amateur champion Adam Willet (2-1-1), of Willett, vs. New Jersey cruiserweight Elvin "KoKo" Sanchez (4-2, 3 KOs), New Hyde Park welterweight Rich "Kid Brazil" Neves (3-0-1, 2 KOs) vs. Jose Angel Ortiz (4-7-1, 1 KO), Hicksville welterweight Anthony Karparis makes his pro debut vs. welterweight Barrington Douse (0-3), and hard-hitting Bronx light middleweight Skender Halili (4-0, 4 KOs) vs. Brian Meadows (0-2-2). All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets are priced at $150.00 (VIP pre-party and ringside), $75.00 (ringside) an $40.00 (general admission) and available to purchase at the Plattdeutsch Park Restaurant (1132 Hempstead Turnpike in Franklin Square) or by calling 516.313.2477 or 516.354.3131. Doors open for the VIP pre-party at 6:00 PM/ET, 7:00 PM/ET for the general public. The first bout is scheduled to start at 7:30 PM/ET.

Huck V Afolabi!

Back To The Future.

The rematch is just around the corner. Once again Marco Huck (34-2, 25 KOs) and Ola Afolabi (19-2-3, 9 KOs) will fight it out for the WBO Cruiserweight World championship, this time at the Messehalle in Erfurt on May 5. In December 2009, the two athletes squared off in Ludwigsburg. Back then Huck won an exciting bout by unanimous decision. Two-and-a-half years later both men believe that they have grown and developed into better boxers. May 5 will show who really has put in the work since then.

The current champion is aware of the fact that his opponent is stronger than before. “He must have developed since our last meeting, otherwise he wouldn´t be the mandatory challenger for my belt,” said Huck.

“But I myself have become a better boxer in comparison to two years ago. With each fight I become wiser and more experienced.”

Afolabi is also adamant that he is a much improved fighter than he was in their previous face-off.

“I wasn´t completely prepared to take on Huck in our last fight,” he stated. “But now I have a new coach in Fritz Sdunek who has taught me so many things. He made me a more complete fighter.” But nevertheless he is well aware of his opponent’s strengths. ”He doesn´t have many weaknesses. He is a very solid fighter and keeps coming forward.” According to Afolabi, he does see himself having the advantage on the night. “We are both better fighters than in the first fight, it is just that I have learned many more things than he has.”

But all eyes will not just be on the two main acts of the night. The duel between the two legends of German boxing, the coaches Ulli Wegner and Fritz Sdunek, who will once again cross paths, will also be fascinating. On one side Wegner will do everything in his power to ensure that prodigy Marco Huck remains champion, while on the other hand Sdunek will be looking to take Huck´s belt off him with his man Afolabi. Asked who is the better coach, both fighters saw their respective just a nod in front.

“I couldn´t be any happier than having Ulli Wegner on my side,” said the German whose reign as champion with Ulli Wegner by his side started back in August of 2009. Afolabi believes that Sdunek has the upper hand. “I have a lot of respect for Ulli Wegner, but I have to say Fritz because of everything he has taught me.”

Both fighters see themselves having the edge over the other and both are convinced that the match-up will end in their favor. “I will be the world champion and will take the title with me,” said the interim-champion. “I am much stronger and my punch is much harder, it will not go the distance.” But for Huck everything else than a victory is out of the question. “I know that I will win this one again. This time I will be even more convincing,” said the champion. “He should be prepared for an early end to his night.”

Fortuna Sends A Message To The Boxing World!

Anyone, Any Time.

While he may have closed Cleveland featherweight Yuandale Evans' eyes with his blistering attack, Javier "El Abejon" Fortuna (19-0, 14 KOs) opened the rest of the world's last night at Frank Erwin Center, Austin, Texas.

Fighting in the opening ESPN Friday Night Fights-televised bout the 22-year-old southpaw needed just 2:02 of the first round to drop the formerly undefeated Evans twice and cement himself as "the one to watch" in the 126-130-lb divisions.

And so, in the wake of his breathtaking performance, the La Romana, Dominican Republic, resident asks the boxing world a question: "Who's Next?"

Fortuna says he's sending out an open invitation to all the world's best featherweights to come and get some of what Yuandale Evans got last night. Any time. Any place.

"Javier is clearly ready to take on anybody," said his promoter, Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. "His trainer, Pablo Sarmiento, has done a fantastic job with him. Evans is a very good fighter, but he didn't belong in the ring with Javier."

Lewkowicz says he and his fighter are ready, willing and able to put together a big fight on a premium cable network. All any champion or top-rated featherweight needs to do is pick up the phone. "Javier Fortuna is ready."

Senchenko & Malignaggi Make Weight!

Live On Pay Per View - 1:00 PM/ET 10:00AM/PT.

VYACHESLAV SENCHENKO (32-0, 21 KOs), Champion, Donetsk, Ukraine 146.6 LBS
PAULIE MALIGNAGGI (30-4, 6 KOs), Challenger, Brooklyn, New York, USA 145.8 LBS.

WBA INTER-CONTINENTAL CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP - CO-FEATURE - 12 ROUNDS

IAGO KILADZE (18-0 (12 KOs), Champion, Donetsk, Ukraine 199.5 LBS.
JULIEN PERRIAUX (15-8, 8 KOs), Challenger, Saint-Dizier, Haute-Marne, France 196.8 LBS.

WBA INTER-CONTINENTAL FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP - 12 ROUNDS

OLEH YEFIMOVYCH (21-2, 11 KOs), Champion, Donetsk, Ukraine 125.5 LBS.
SERGIO SANTILLAN (29-11-3, 14 KOs), Challenger, Buenos Aires, Distro Federal, Argentina 125.2 LBS.

IBC LIGHT WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP - 12 ROUNDS

VOLODYMYR KRAVETS (25-1, 15 KOs), Champion, Donetsk, Ukraine 139.2 LBS.
ABDOULAYE SOUKOUNA (14-10-6, 1 KO), Challenger, Vitry-sur-Seine, Val-de-Marne, France 139.7 LBS.

Jackson Brothers Victorious!

Punch Their Way To Victory In Paradise.

On Wednesday, April 25, at the Marin Center in Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, promoter Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing and co-promoter Lesley Commission of 340 Boxing Promotions presented "Boxing in Paradise V" to a sold-out crowd, who didn't go home disappointed.

Fighting in the night's main event before a hometown crowd, John "The Rock" Jackson (13-0, 12 KOs) son of former world champion Julian Jackson, defended his WBC Youth World Light Middleweight Championship and spoiled the undefeated record of Mexico's Jesus Selig (14-1-1, 9 KOs) via TKO 3 (1:33).

Selig was the second consecutive undefeated fighter to be steamrolled by 23-year-old Jackson, who seems destined to pick up where his power-punching father left off.

In the main supporting bout, older brother Julius "The Chef" Jackson (13-0, 9 KOs) successfully defended his USNBC Super Middleweight Title with a TKO 2 (3:00) over Durrell Richardson (13-5, 5 KOs) of Youngstown, Ohio.

Both brothers were 2008 Olympians and both have been nothing but impressive throughout their brief but explosive professional careers.

On the undercard, St. Croix super middleweight Clarence "The Shockah," Joseph (1-0, 1 KO) spoiled the pro debut of Puerto Rico's Eduardo Anduro (0-1) by TKO 1 (0:55); while his brother, super middleweight Austin Joseph, won by TKO 1 (1:52) over Pembroke Pines, Florida's Adam Schwartz (0-2).

Julian Jackson's nephew, undefeated Samuel "The Rock City Cobra" Rogers had his scheduled fight scratched at the last minute due to visa issues for his opponent.

Hanks Wins By Knockout!

Improves to 20-0.

Star Boxing's undefeated heavyweight contender Joe "The Future" Hanks made it a very quick evening on Friday night, brutally knocking out veteran Marcus Rhode in the first round at the Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Oklahoma.

Improving his record to 20-0-0 with 14 knockouts, Hanks drilled Rhode to the canvas three times before referee Gary Ritter called a halt to the bout at the 1:36 mark of the opening stanza.

The 29-year-old Hanks, a native of Newark, New Jersey who trains in Carson, California is the holder of the IBA Americas Heavyweight Title.

Details of Hanks' next bout will be announced in the near future.

Oosthuizen Shines In U.S. TV Debut!

Del Valle & Pedraza Score Action-Packed Unanimous Decision Wins.

Thomas Oosthuizen made the most of his United States television debut on ShoBox: The New Generation by producing a crowd-pleasing unanimous decision victory over Marcus "Too Much" Johnson. The 10-round super middleweight bout was scored 98-91 on all three scorecards. In the SHOWTIME® co-feature, unbeaten super bantamweight prospect Luis Orlando Del Valle scored a hard-fought, 10-round unanimous decision over Christopher Martin by the tallies of 100-89, 98-91 and 97-92. In the evening's opening bout, Jose "The Sniper" Pedraza won a unanimous decision over the relentless Gil Garcia by the scores of 79-72 and 80-71 two times in an eight-round super featherweight bout from Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Okla.

After losing the first fight of his career in his last ShoBox appearance, Johnson (21-2, 15 KOs), of Houston, came out bullish and determined to outperform the IBO super middleweight titlist Oosthuizen. Jumping out from his corner at the opening bell, Johnson bolted directly at his six-foot-four opponent and attacked him with a barrage of head and body blows. Oosthuizen (19-0-1, 13 KOs) of Gauteng, South Africa, absorbed some early punishment but maintained his composure.

Despite his height advantage of more than five inches, the tall South African did not always keep his distance, choosing to fight off the ropes during many portions of the contest. As the bout entered the fourth and fifth rounds, the 26-year-old Johnson slowed and Oosthuizen upped his work rate. A busy southpaw, Oosthuizen threw most of his punches in bunches including repeated left-right, left-right combos to the ribs.

In the eighth, Oosthuizen pressured Johnson into the blue corner and forced the Texan to take a knee after landing a right hook to the body. Johnson beat the count and the two battled it out for the final rounds before the scores revealed that Oosthuizen claimed the latest victory in his budding career.

"I never underestimated Johnson," said the 24-year-old Oosthuizen. "I expected him to come out fast but I knew it would be sink or swim. I think he was surprised when I surpassed his big punches at the beginning. I could tell he was beginning to tire by the third or fourth round because I could hear how heavily he was breathing."

In the co-feature, Del Valle (16-0, 11 KOs), of Bayamon, P.R., continued his pursuit of contender status with a win over his toughest opponent to date. The Puerto Rico native won the early rounds before Martin began to work his strong jab in the fourth to make it a closer fight. Both natural counter punchers, the boxers got busier as the fight advanced.

In the seventh, Martin (23-2-3, 6 KOs), of Chula Vista, Calif., was having a strong round and switched to southpaw stance only to get caught by a left hook that dropped him to the floor. When he rose to his feet, Dell Valle pressed forward but Martin regained his composure and survived the round.

Del Valle and Martin engaged in many rousing exchanges over the last three rounds that created swelling above the right eye of both 25-year-old fighters - as well as excitement in the venue through the final bell.

To open the evening, Pedraza (8-0, 6 KOs) and Garcia (5-3-1, 1 KO) put on an entertaining display of boxing. The highly touted prospect out of Caguas, Puerto Rico, Pedraza amassed "a frightening connect percentage," said SHOWTIME expert analyst Steve Farhood, landing 60 percent (281 of 471) of his shots. In the fifth round, Pedraza badly staggered Houston's Garcia with several shots to the head. Referee Vic Drakulich ruled it a knockdown but video replay revealed that Garcia did not touch the canvas and was not held up by the ropes. By late in the sixth round, Pedraza had opened a cut over Garcia's left eye.

Unfazed by the near knockdown or cut, Garcia pushed forward. Though Pedraza proved to be the quicker and more polished boxer, Garcia won the crowd with his no-quit, unyielding fight style. Garcia gave Pedraza a tough test through his resilience and body attack but it was not enough to win the fight.

Mike Crispino called the action on ShoBox with Farhood serving as expert analyst. Gordon Hall is theexecutive producer of ShoBox with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing. For information on SHOWTIME Sports, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, complete telecast information and more, visit the website at http://sports.SHO.com.

John Molina Jr!

Ready To Resume Lightweight Campaign Under Goossen Tutor.

Speculation of a turbulent relationship between John Molina Jr. (23-1, 19 KOs) and Goossen Tutor Promotions were put aside today in the Los Angeles office of the California State Athletic Commission. Putting those differences to rest, the two parties met face to face and agreed to move forward together and fulfill Molina's dream of becoming world champion.

"I'm excited to continue my career under the Goossen Tutor banner," said the 29-year-old lightweight contender. "There were some differences that we were able to get to the bottom of and now we can go back to focusing on winning a world title.

"I've been in the gym this whole time and I'm looking forward to showcasing my ability and showing the world that I am ready to take on and beat the upper echelon of fighters at 135. This is fair warning: [WBC lightweight World Champion] Antonio Demarco (27-2-1, 20 KOs), [WBO lightweight World Champion] Ricky Burns (34-2, 9 KOs), I'm coming for you."

John Molina Jr. is widely considered one of the hottest young lightweight prospects in boxing. A native of Covina, California who has posted 19 vicious knockouts among his first 23 wins, while only sustaining one loss in his career, had fought his way to the #3 world ranked contender, until the recent spate of inactivity intervened and lower his world ranking.

"I'm ready to get my top ranking back, a world title belt around my waist, and any of the champions at 135 and of course, I'll always make an exception for (Brandon) Rios," Molina said.

Molina previously had his sights set on Rios (30-0-1, 22 KOs) having had two potential fights with Rios never come to fruition. Rios, who was stripped of the WBA World Championship for failing to make weight in his second defense against John Murray, was given another shot at the vacant title in his very next fight against Richard Abril this past April. Though Rios managed to squeeze out a controversial split decision victory, he failed to make weight for the second time in a row, and did not recapture the championship as a result.

"We look forward to continuing our relationship with this great young and exciting fighter and are anxious to see him rise to the top of the lightweight division," promoter Dan Goossen said. "We will have him back in the ring in June and announce an opponent and venue shortly."

Molina's most recent ring appearance came in June of last year, when he took on Robert Frankel (28-11-1, 5 KOs) at Pechanga Resort & Casino in Cabazon, Calif. Molina was too quick and powerful for the tested veteran fighter, and Raul Caiz Jr. would stop the bout at the conclusion of round 5.

"We plan on getting John right back to the top of the organizations lightweight division and have him fighting for a title by the end of the year," stated Goossen.

HOMECOMING!

Chicago Promoter Brings Pro Boxing Back To Lowell, MA.

Professional boxing returns to Lowell, Massachusetts - home of "Irish" Micky Ward and Dicky Eklund - for the first time in seven years, on Wednesday night, May 9 at Lowell Memorial Auditorium.

Local fan favorites "Irish" Joe McCreedy and Sean Eklund, whose uncles are Micky and Dicky, will fight in front of their hometown fans for the first time as pros on the "Homecoming" card, and former world champion "Vicious" Vivian Harris will be making his Bay State debut.

"Homecoming" is presented by Chicago Fight Clubs Promotion ("CFC Promotion"). "We signed Joey and Sean and they both fought on our last show in Burbank, Illinois (Oct. 7)," CFC Promotion president Cynthia Tolaymat explained why a Chicago promoter is doing a show in Massachusetts. "The two fighters and Dicky Eklund spoke to me and my husband, Wasfi Tolaymat, who now manages Joey and Sean, about the possibility of doing a show in Lowell. We liked the idea of Joey and Sean featured on a show in their hometown. I have faith in them and their legendary trainers, Micky and Dicky. Lowell may be a small city but it has so many GOOD boxing fans. We have been welcomed with open arms in Lowell. We're looking forward to the May 9th show and it being the first of many there for CFC Promotion. "

The popular McCreedy (13-5-2, 6 KOs) takes on Benjamin "El Trapicha" Diaz (11-6-2, 8 KOs) in the 10-round main event for the vacant United States Boxing Organization ("USBO") super middleweight title. McCreedy is trained by Dicky Eklund at Micky Ward's gym in nearby Chelmsford. Eklund (10-4, 2 KOs), trained by Ward, faces light welterweight James Ventry in an eight-round bout.

Harris (29-7-2, 19 KOs), a Guyana native fighting out of Brooklyn, squares-off against Jermaine "Too Sweet" White (17-4, 9 KOs) in the 10-round co-feature for the vacant USBO welterweight title. In 2002, Harris captured the World Boxing Association ("WBA) light welterweight championship, stopping Diosbelys Hurtado the second round. Vivian successfully defended his WBA crown three times against Soulemane M'baye and Oktay Urkal twice.

Also fighting on the card is hot Chicago light welterweight prospect Antonio "Aztec God of War" Canas (6-0, 3 KOs), who faces the stiffest test of his young career in a six-round match versus Tyrone Chatman (9-1-1, 6 KOs). Also on the undercard in a pair of four-round bouts is pro-debuting welterweight Jimmy Smith, of Portland (ME), vs. Rafael Vasinmo, of Lawrence (MA); pro-debuting middleweight Bernie Ongewe, of Dracut (MA) vs. Anthony Jones (0-0-1). Smith is a former New England Golden Gloves Tournament winner who served two tours in Iraq as a U.S. Marine. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Harris and Canas are handled by CFC Promotion, which also promotes IBF International light welterweight champion Albert "Tornado" Mensah, who successfully defended his title against Michael Katsidis, as well as world middleweight title challenger Osumanu Adama.

Tickets, reasonably priced at $25.00, $40.00 and $75.00, may be purchased by calling 978.761.8374 or at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium box office. Doors open at 6 PM/ET, first both scheduled for 7:00 PM/ET. Go to www.cfcpromotion.com or www.irishjoemccreedy.com for additional information.

Pulev V Dimitrenko!

Battle It Out For The European Crown.

The European Heavyweight Title is up for grabs for Kubrat Pulev. On May 5 the boxing world will be watching the two WBO world champions Marco Huck (34-2, 25 KOs) and Robert Stieglitz (41-2, 23 KOs) defending their cruiserweight and super-middleweight titles respectively at the Messehalle in Erfurt. But the championship bouts don´t end there. Kubrat Pulev (15-0, 7 KOs) and Alexander “Sascha” Dimitrenko (32-1, 23 KOs) will fight it out for the vacant European crown of the heavyweight division.

On paper it would seem that Dimitrenko has a slight advantage over his opponent. With a height of 1,94-meter Pulev is seven centimeters smaller than Dimitrenko. But that doesn´t bother the Bulgarian one bit. “Size does not matter if the tactics are right,” said a confident Pulev. “In training I have been sparring against taller guys. One was 2,01-meter and one was 2,05-meter.” Dimitrenko himself couldn´t say whether or not his size will tilt the scale in his favor. “We will see what will happen inside the ring.”

The level of experience as a professional boxer also speaks for the German. Pulev, though, knows that he makes up for it through his seemingly countless fights as an amateur. “I have competed in more than 300 fights as an amateur. I even won the European title back in 2008 on that level,” commented the 30-year-old. “I believe that we are on an even playing field looking at our experience.” Dimitrenko himself knows that he doesn´t have an easy challenge on his hands. “You should never underestimate your opponent,” according to the 29-year old.

As the former European champion, Dimitrenko is highly motivated to regain his belt. After suffering an injury during his last fight against Michael Sprott, which ended in a unanimous decision in his favor, the EBU stripped him of the title. Now he is desperate to get it back. “My title was taken off me, unjustified I might add,” so the German. “Therefore I still see it as my belt and I will get it back.” But Pulev will not make it easy for him. According to him it is no question who will be victorious on May 5. “The only thing that I can say for sure is that I will win.”

Although both fighters are convinced that they will be victorious, neither of them could say in what way they will end the fight. “You really can never tell what is going to happen. Every fight and every opponent is different and predictions hard to make,” said the Bulgarian. The only thing that both boxers can guarantee is that it is going to be a great matchup between two rising stars of the division.

Q& A THOMAS OOSTHUIZEN!

SIX QUESTIONS WITH THOMAS 'TOMMY GUN' OOSTHUIZEN.

Tonight well-spoken and articulate South African IBO super middleweight champion Thomas "Tommy Gun'' Oosthuizen (18-0-1, 13 KOs) will meet dangerous ShoBox veteran Marcus "Too Much" Johnson (21-1, 15 KOs), of Houston, Texas, in the 10-round super middleweight co-featured bout on ShoBox: The New Generation live on SHOWTIME® tomorrow/Friday, April 27, at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast) from the Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Okla.

This will be the second United States fight for Oosthuizen, who won a unanimous decision over Aaron Pryor Jr., in his stateside debut on Sept. 3, 2011, in Biloxi, Miss.

Fans will see a familiar face or two in Oosthuizen's corner, led by manager/trainer Harold Volbrecht, the former No. 1 ranked welterweight contender and former South African welterweight champion and Brian Mitchell, the former WBA and IBF 130-pound world champion and 2009 inductee into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

"I feel like I have the most experienced corner of anyone in boxing," said the 24-year-old Oosthuizen, the son of former two-division South African titlist Charles Oosthuizen. "The most important thing Brian has taught me is that boxing can open all kinds of doors for me; the world is your oyster."

In other fights on the DiBella Entertainment-promoted event, undefeated Luis Orlando Del Valle (15-0, 11 KOs) of Bayamon, P.R., gets the toughest test of his career when he faces Christopher Martin (23-1-3, 6 KOs) of Chula Vista, Calif., in a 10-round super bantamweight battle, and former international amateur standout and current World Boxing Council (WBC) super featherweight Youth champion Jose "The Sniper" Pedraza (7-0, 6 KOs), of Caguas, P.R., takes on Gil Garcia (5-2-1, 1 KO) in an eight-round super featherweight bout.

Oosthuizen, who is ranked No. 7 in the IBF and No. 10 by the WBC, is looking to make a great impression on his new promoter, Lou DiBella. "I'm only just now starting to fight for him so I just have to show him every fight that I'm worth his while and continue to build my relationship with him."

Oosthuizen answered six questions.

QUESTION: You've had just one fight in the United States, do you plan to fight more here in the future?

Oosthuizen: "Yes, that's the goal. (I want to fight at) MGM Grand in Las Vegas and (in) the main events at the big arenas. If you want something bad enough, nobody can take it away from you. So at the end of the day I just have to keep on winning fights and get more attention in the States and worldwide."

QUESTION: What boxers would you say do you most resemble or emulate in style?

Oosthuizen: "I would say I'm a mix between a Bob Foster (former light heavyweight world champion) and Tommy Hearns. Bob Foster could fight very well on the inside and Tommy Hearns was great from the outside. And I'm always training hard so I would say a mix between those two."

QUESTION: What do you expect to see from Marcus Johnson?

Oosthuizen: "I think he's going to come out fast and he's going to try and set the pace. But I don't think that will bother me because I'm always fit and train really hard. Dangerous fighters don't scare me or set me back. You just adapt. He'll realize I'm the stronger and more dominant guy. I'm going to overwhelm him with my hand speed. I'm more accurate with my punches. I know how to adjust and adapt to any style."

QUESTION: You're only prediction is that Johnson would lose. Cocky or confident?

Oosthuizen: "Yeah, I said that and I meant it. I am in it to win it. That's boxing. I didn't come here thinking God brought me all this way to America and this far in my career to lose. I'm here and I'm ready for the big-time. It's not cockiness at all. It's all confidence. I train harder than most all the other fighters and all my sparring partners are bigger guys than me. I just push myself to be on another level and that's where it's all confidence. If you don't believe in yourself, who's going to believe in you?"

QUESTION: Is it important to just pick up the "W' or to also look good doing it?

Oosthuizen: "No, I won't be satisfied with a 'W'. I'm here to make an impression. I have to look good. Every fight is an important fight to my career and I have to show the people that I've got that something special."

QUESTION: Who would you most like to fight in the future?

Oosthuizen: "There are a few guys that I would really like to fight; all the guys that were in the Super Six and (Lucian) Bute. All of them: Mikkel Kessler, Andre Ward and Carl Froch. To be the best you have to beat the best. It's easy to say but it's going to be a tough challenge."

For information on SHOWTIME Sports, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, complete telecast information and more, visit the website at http://sports.SHO.com.

Tickets at $75, $45 and $35 and can be purchased through the Buffalo Run Casino by Clicking Here.

Sillakh V Grachev!

WEIGHTS FROM AUSTIN.

AUSTIN, Tex. (April 26, 2012) – Weights for tomorrow night’s unprecedented clash of four undefeated fighters on ESPN’s Friday Night Fights being promoted by Roy Jones, Jr.’s Square Ring Promotions at the Frank Erwin Center, Austin, Texas, are:

Ismayl Sillakh NABF Light Heavyweight Champion (17-0, 14 KO’s) -- 175 lbs.
Denis Grachev (11-0-1, 7 KO’s) -- 174 lbs.

Yuandale Evans (16-0, 12 KO’s) – 127.25 lbs.
Javier Fortuna (18-0, 13 KO’s) – 128 lbs.*

*Fortuna initially weighed in at 129.5 lbs. but was able to lose 1.5 lbs. to make the contracted catchweight of 128 lbs. within the 2 hour time limit under the Texas Commission rules.

Patterson Training Hyland!

Irish Invasion May 12TH In Poughkeepsie, NY.

Unbeaten Irish super featherweight prospect Patrick "The Punisher" Hyland (25-0, 11 KOs) wants to get where his trainer, two-time world champion Tracy Harris Patterson, has already been.

Hyland headlines the May 12th "Irish Invasion" card against veteran Frankie Archuleta (27-9-1, 14 KOs) in the 10-round main event, at Mid-Hudson Civic Center in Poughkeepsie, New York.

The "Irish Invasion" card is being presented by Final Round Promotions, in association with Team Snooki Boxing and Bob Duffy's Ring Promotions, and sponsored in part by Title Boxing.

Patterson, who lives in nearby New Paltz, was trained by his father, the late Floyd Patterson, two-time world heavyweight champion and 1952 Olympic gold medal winner. Tracy (63-8-2, 43 KOs) was the world super bantamweight champion in the early to mid-nineties.

The 28-year-old Hyland, rated No. 6 by the United States Boxing Association ("USBA"), is the reigning World Boxing Federation ("WBF") super featherweight champion.

Patterson started training Patrick's brother, Paul, who was the first of the three Hyland brothers to fight in the United States. Tracy went back-and-forth from the US to Ireland to work Paul's fights and eventually he started training Patrick, who decided to move to Marlboro, New York in order to train regularly with Patterson.

"I liked Patrick's determination," Patterson spoke about first working with Patrick. "His willingness to be in the gym impressed me. He will do whatever is necessary to accomplish his goals as a professional fighter. He's a pro outside of the ring, too. Patrick made a commitment to come to America when he signed with Final Round Promotions and Team Snooki Boxing to get his shot. Although he came here well established, he still needed work on his defense and movement. Now, he's the full package.

"His father (Patrick, Sr.) has worked with Patrick and he has entrusted his son with me. At the May 12th show, I'll be Patrick's chief and his father will be working the corner as an assistant."

Patterson believes his protégé can make it to the top of the mountain that he climbed two decades ago. "Patrick's not far from a world title shot," Tracy predicted. "He just hasn't been given an opportunity, yet, to step into the ring with an opponent who can get him in position for a world title shot. He's at the door now.

"When you get to a certain level, all fighters are good, but the one who wants it the most will win. Patrick has that now; he's very hungry. He walks around with the determination to become world champion."

The more experienced Archuleta is best known, perhaps, for upsetting five-time world champion Johnny Tapia. A former New Mexico and Texas State champion, Frankie extended former world champion Alejandro Berrio and world title challenger Emmanuel Lucero the full 12-round distance in their respective fights.

"We don't take anybody lightly," Patterson concluded. "Patrick has to be fully prepared because Archuleta's coming in looking for an upset. Patrick's ready now. A few more weeks of sparring and he'll be like a lion come fight night."

Yonkers (NY) super featherweight Chazz McDowell (5-1, 1 KOs) fights Cuban-born Yuniel Ramos in the six-round co-feature, while Canadian light welterweight Natasha Spencer (3-0-1, 2 KOs) meets Racquel Bailey (1-1-1) in a six-round female match. Unbeaten Maryland light heavyweight prospect Thomas Williams, Jr. (7-0, 4 KOs) has been added to the card in a six-round match against an opponent to be determined.

Also fighting on the undercard in separate four-round bouts are undefeated Newburgh light welterweight favorite Treysean Wiggins (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. Larenzo Wilson (1-1-1), New York City light middleweight Valdrin Muriqi (2-1) vs. Philip Burnette (2-3, 1 KOs), former USA Mid-American middleweight champion Bryant "The Spartan" Pappas (13-0-1, 13 KOs) vs. Josh Williams (5-4, 4 KOs), Brooklyn super middleweight Travis "The Notorious" Peterkin (4-0, 3 KOs) vs. TBA, and Waterbury (CT) light welterweight Jair Ramos (2-0, 1 KO) vs. Anthony "Pride of Virginia" Royal (0-1-1). All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Pappas, a sergeant in the Yonkers Police Department, is a cancer survivor who is donating his purse to cancer research. Team Snooki Boxing is donating $1.00 from each sold ticket to Rolling Thunder, Chapter III New York to support needy U.S. military veterans.

Tickets, reasonably priced at $35.00, $50.00 and $100 (Gold Ringside), are available to purchase at the Mid-Hudson Civic Center and through all Ticketmaster outlets.

Doors open at 6:30 PM/ET with the first bout scheduled for 7:30 PM/ET. Go to www.finalroundpromotions.com for additional information.

Demetrius Andrade Headlines!

May 5TH at Mohegan Sun.

Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing will celebrate Cinco de Mayo with an exciting pro boxing card featuring a legitimate star-in-the-making, undefeated 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius "Boo Boo" Andrade, on Saturday night, May 5 at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.

Light middleweight contender Andrade (16-0, 11 KOs) faces The Contender, Season Two participant Rudy Cisneros (12-3, 11 KOs) in the 10-round main event, which will air live (10-11 PM / ET) as an ESPN Boxing: FNF Special Edition presented by Corona Extra.

After the live boxing concludes, fans in attendance will have the added enjoyment of watching a closed circuit showing of the Floyd Mayweather, Jr. vs. Miguel Cotto fight on Mohegan Sun Arena's jumbo screen.

"Demetrius Andrade has clearly graduated from prospect to contender," Star Boxing president Joe DeGuardia said. "He's getting close to a world title shot. We're very happy to be back at one of the best venues in boxing, Mohegan Sun Arena, where Demetrius has become a genuine house favorite. Fans there can watch an entertaining live card, plus Mayweather-Cotto without leaving the comfort of their seats. I think ESPN showcasing Demetrius on a special Saturday night broadcast is a strong indication of how highly he's respected in the boxing world as a potential star."

The 24-year-old Andrade has been rising in world light middleweight ratings, recently moving to No. 6 in the World Boxing Organization ("WBO") and No. 7 in the International Boxing Federation ("IBF"), as well as No. 15 in the World Boxing Council ("WBC") and World Boxing Association ("WBA").

Fighting out of nearby Providence, Andrade was a 2007 World amateur champion who will be fighting at Mohegan Sun for the sixth time. The gifted Cape Verdean boxer is co-promoted by Star Boxing and Banner Promotions

Andrade has been favorably compared to a younger, heavier, left-handed Mayweather due to their similar boxing styles, featuring lightning-quick feet and hands, incredible defensive reflexes and strings of dominant victories. "Boo Boo" has stopped of 11 of 16 opponents, collectively winning 57 of 61 rounds fought on the judges' scorecards.

In his last fight February 10 at Mohegan Sun, Andrade absolutely smoked Angel Hernandez (30-10), stopping the former world title challenger in the second round, coming on the heels of solid back-to-back victories against former world title challenger Saul Duran (TKO3) and veteran Grady Brewer, winner of The Contender II television reality series.

The subject of a feature story in the current edition of The Ring Magazine, Andrade is a multi-gifted southpaw who is co-promoted by Star Boxing and Banner Promotions.

The May 5th supporting fights will include some of New England's most popular boxers. The eight-round co-feature marks the long-anticipated return of Hartford fan favorite Addy Irizarry (8-5, 2 KOs), who has been sideline since November 20, 2010, after suffering a fractured ankle during a first-round loss to former International Female Boxing Association ("IFBA") World welterweight champion Jill Emery. Irizarry faces Victoria Cisneros.

Undercard fighters include Hartford super featherweight Joseph "Chip" Perez (7-1, 2 KOs) vs. Juan Jaramillo (8-9-2, 3 KOs) in a six-round bout, as well as Hartford light heavyweight Tylon "Shadow Boi" Burris (1-0, 1 KO vs. pro debuting Robert Jackson, Springfield (MA) light heavyweight Reinaldo Graceski (1-0) vs. Borngood Washington, and Windsor (VT) light middleweight Chris Gilbert (3-0, 2 KOs) vs. TBA in four-round matches.

Tickets are $75.00, $40.00 and $30.00 (plus $5.00 facility fee for all tickets) and are on sale now through Ticketmaster. Ticketmaster customers may log on to ticketmaster.com; call Ticketmaster's national toll free Charge By Phone number 1.800.745.3000; or visit any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets are also available at the Mohegan Sun Box Office, subject to availability, or by calling Star Boxing at 1.718.823.2000 and online via www.StarBoxing.com.

Spina V Biosse!

Brace For Intrastate.

The city Jimmy Burchfield has worked tirelessly to keep on the forefront of the boxing community is up for grabs, and two of Rhode Island’s brightest stars are ready to take the crown.

Vladine Biosse (12-1-1, 6 KOs), dubbed “Mr. Providence” due to his strong following in Rhode Island’s capital city, will defend his New England Super Middleweight Title on Thursday, May 24th, 2012 against Providence’s Joey “K.O. Kid” Spina (26-2-2, 18 KOs) in the eight-round main event of “Up For Grabs,” presented by Classic Entertainment & Sports at the Twin River Event Center.

“This is the biggest local fight to hit the Ocean State in more than a decade, and there’s no place we’d rather be than the beautiful Twin River Event Center,” Burchfield said. “These are the kind of fights the fans want to see, and I credit both fighters for being willing to put their reputations and careers on the line in front of what will undoubtedly be a sold-out crowd.

“The name ‘Up For Grabs’ is fitting, because there’s plenty at stake for both fighters on May 24th – more than just bragging rights or a championship. The sky’s the limit for whoever wins this fight. Both sides are taking a tremendous risk, and I encourage our loyal fans in Rhode Island – and throughout New England – to show their appreciation for what these two ring warriors are putting on the line.”

“Up For Grabs” is the second installment of the popular 2012 Twin River Thursday Night Fight Series, which began March 22nd when Jason “School Boy” Pires edged Eddie Soto in front of a standing-room only crowd at the Event Center.

The showdown between Spina and Biosse on May 24th will exceed all expectations and could challenge Twin River’s long-standing attendance record for professional boxing. Neither Biosse nor Spina ever expected to face one another, but now suddenly find themselves preparing for their greatest challenge with the balance of power in Providence hanging in the balance.

Spina, the more experienced of the two, is as confident as ever despite losing a controversial split decision to former Olympian Jerson Ravelo last month in Atlantic City. The loss to Ravelo was his first fight in 17 months, but Spina has been in the gym working nonstop since January, which he predicts will result in a much sharper performance against Biosse.

“To be honest, he doesn’t impress me that much,” Spina said of Biosse, a former college football player at the University of Rhode Island. “He’s a good kid, and I consider him a friend, but this is business. If he tries to stand in the middle of the ring with me and throw down, I’ll knock him out.

“If he boxes, we might have a long night.”

Coming off a unanimous-decision win over George Armenta on March 22nd, Biosse has finally shook off the rust stemming from his first and only loss to Denis Grachev in May of 2011. He fought to a disputed draw against John Mackey last October, a fight in which he suffered a shoulder injury in the opening round, and bounced back with a much sharper performance against Armenta, including a fourth-round knockdown that put the fight out of reach.

Facing Spina is Biosse’s toughest test to date; other than former light middleweight champion Santiago Samaniego, whom Biosse knocked out in February of 2011, Spina has more wins and knockouts than any of Biosse’s previous opponents.

“I’ve got a lot of respect for Joey, but this is just another day at the office for me,” Biosse said. “Joey beating me, it’s not going to happen. I work too hard for this.”

Both fighters are motivated by more than just the opportunity to earn bragging rights.

For Spina, this is a chance to firmly cement his status among Rhode Island’s greatest, most popular fighters, including two-time world title challenger Peter Manfredo Jr., known affectionately as “The Pride Of Providence,” and, in some cases, Biosse, who became an overnight celebrity in Rhode Island after beating Joey McCreedy two years ago on national television.

“It bothers me that everyone else gets more publicity,” said Spina, who has held both the World Boxing Council United States National Boxing Council (WBC USNBC) and International Boxing Federation (IBF) Inter-Continental super middleweight titles. “It gets under my skin.

“People love to hate me. That’s the bottom line. It motivates me. No disrespect to anybody, but I’ve accomplished a lot – real titles, real recognition. We’ve got ‘The Pride Of Providence’ and ‘Mr. Providence.’ I call myself ‘The King Of Providence.’ Eventually, we’ll find out who’s the real king. A lot of people are saying different things. I’m old, my time’s up – we’ll see.”

Biosse is aiming to silence the critics who’ve written him off in the aftermath of his knockout loss to Grachev last year, a fight that kept him out of the ring for nearly five months before he returned to Twin River in October.

“This shuts a lot of people up,” he said, “and it lets my fans know I’m in this for the longevity. I’m not in this to play around. This solidifies a lot of things.

“A lot of times, you hear people say, ‘Oh, he’s done,’ ‘He’s not what we thought he was,’ or, ‘Since he lost, he hasn’t fought the same.’ I have a lot of doubters. That’s what I live for. As an athlete and a competitor, it motivates me.”

Ultimately, the goal for both fighters is to eventually fight for – and win – a world title. Spina has been on the cusp before, at one point rated among the top light heavyweights in the world before suffering a knockout loss to Manfredo Jr. in 2006.

Three months shy of his 35th birthday, the “K.O. Kid” knows the clock is ticking. This could be his final run at a world title, and he can’t afford any setbacks along the way, regardless of what’s on the line next month against Biosse.

“I want to win the world title, but my goal in boxing at the end of the day is to say I fought for one, win, lose or draw,” Spina said. “Peter has two title shots. Give me enough time to prepare and I think I can beat anyone in the world.

“That last fight [against Ravelo], I had ring rust, but I still think I won the fight. I hit him with the bigger punches. I hurt him. The guy made me think. He moved in and out. No disrespect to Vladine, but he doesn’t have those same skills. This won’t be that kind of fight. Vladine will come in and do what he knows how to do. He’ll try to overwhelm me with his conditioning, and he’ll walk into something.”

Before he can dream of winning a world title, Biosse must first get past the hard-hitting Spina, a victory that could put him on the radar in the super middleweight division.

“In my last fight, I felt as though I showed I’m still dominant, but there were a lot of things I did wrong at the same time,” Biosse said. “That’s what we’re working on now.

“I need to go in there and be me. As much respect as I have for Joey, I don’t think there’s anything special about his game. No tricks. He’s a straightforward fighter. I’ve been watching all of his fights and I’m very aware of how he works. I’m very confident.”

Tickets for “Up For Grabs” are $35.00, $50.00, $75.00 and $125.00 (VIP) and can be purchased by calling CES at 401.724.2253/2254, online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at the Players Club booth at Twin River, or through any TicketMaster location. Doors open 6 p.m. with the first bout scheduled for 7.

OOSTHUIZEN V JOHNSON!

SHOBOX TRIPLE HEADER.

Tomorrow night, DiBella Entertainment (DBE) will present an exciting tripleheader on ShoBox: The New Generation, live on SHOWTIME® (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) at Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Okla. Headlining the seven-bout card will be highly regarded undefeated South African southpaw, Thomas "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen (18-0-1, 13KO's) taking on his most dangerous opponent to date when he meets hard-hitting Marcus "Too Much" Johnson (21-1, 15KO's) in a 10-round super middleweight showdown.

Also seeing action on the televised portion of the card will be fellow DiBella Entertainment prospects, Luis "Orlandito" Del Valle (15-0, 11KO's) and 2008 Puerto Rican Olympian Jose "The Sniper" Pedraza (7-0, 6KO's). Both Del Valle and Pedraza are members of Team Puerto Rico, a group of some of the most promising prospects in all of boxing promoted by DiBella Entertainment, Gary Shaw Productions, Javier Bustillo's Universal Promotions and Warriors Boxing. Like Oosthuizen, the world-rated Del Valle will take on his toughest opponent to date when he meets once-beaten Christopher Martin (23-1-3, 6KO's) in the 10-round super bantamweight co-feature. Pedraza, who is the current WBC Super Featherweight Youth Champion, is set to open up the telecast when he squares off against Gil Garcia (5-2-1, 1KO) over eight scheduled rounds.

Before the SHOWTIME® cameras begin rolling, the fans in Miami will be treated to an entertaining undercard, featuring DBE fighters, Ivan Redkach (9-0, 8KO's), Tor Hamer (14-1, 10KO's) and Allan Benitez (4-1, 1KO) all seeing action.

Redkach, originally hailing from Ukraine, but not living and training in Los Angeles, CA will be making his 2012 debut after going 4-0, with 4 knockouts, in 2011. Redkach is scheduled to face off against Rynell Griffin (6-8-2, 2KO's) in the lightweight prospect's first scheduled eight-rounder.

New York-based heavyweight Hamer has been a staple on DBE's Broadway Boxing shows over the past few years. Hamer made his anticipated return to the ring on March 7, after spending a little over a year on the shelf tending to a hand injury. Hamer returned in impressive fashion, scoring a devastating second-round knockout over Dieuly Aristilde. Hamer will look to add another impressive victory to his resume when he takes on veteran Galen Brown (37-19-1, 23KO's) in their six-round heavyweight matchup.

In another heavyweight match-up, undefeated heavyweight contender, Joe "The Future" Hanks (19-0, 13KO's) will look to make it a perfect 20-0 when he takes on eighty fight veteran Marcus Rhode, in a six-round heavyweight special attraction.

Rounding out the card will be the Robert Garcia-trained Benitez as he takes on Oklahoma City's own Terrence Harris in a four-round lightweight contest.

For information on SHOWTIME Sports, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, complete telecast information and more, visit the website at http://sports.SHO.com.

Tickets at $75, $45 and $35 and can be purchased through the Buffalo Run Casino by Clicking Here.

Mads Larsen Returns!

Takes On Di Giacomo.

Mads Larsen (51-3, 38 KOs) will return to the ring on June 2, taking on Lorenzo Di Giacomo (41-6, 19 KOs) as the Nordic Fight Night hits Herning. The former European Super-Middleweight Champion has been shaping up in Team Sauerland´s training facilities in Berlin. “It´s great to be back,” Larsen said. “I am in perfect shape after all the gruelling training with those German coaches. The fire is still burning inside me and I know that I can still compete at the top level. June 2 will be the first step. Di Giacomo is a tough guy, he has proven his class in recent fights, but to reach the top again, I will have to find a way past him.”

Di Giacomo, 33 and from Italy, boasts a strong record of 41 victories and six losses along with 19 KOs. He challenged Eduard Gutknecht for the European Light Heavyweight Title last summer. “Di Giacomo is strong and rugged,” promoter Nisse Sauerland said. “He is certainly a very risky pick for Mads´ comeback. But we have no time too waste. Every fight is make-or-break for him. However, I am convinced he still has got what it takes to be a champion.”

Larsen last fought in January 2010 when he was badly affected by health problems in his loss to reigning WBA Super-Middleweight World Champion (Interim) Brian Magee. The fight snapped a seven-fight winning streak. “Mads is ready to start another run at a big title,” Sauerland added. “His training in Berlin has been very promising. The coaches, Ulli Wegner and Georg Bramowski, certainly liked what they saw and they believe that Mads can still play a major role at super-middleweight. We will ultimately find out on June 2, but I know they are right.”

Larsen has been training with the likes of former IBF Middleweight Champion Arthur Abraham, WBO Cruiserweight Champion Marco Huck and European Light-Heavyweight Champion Eduard Gutknecht to name but a few. “Training twice a day is hard, but I´ve always loved to work out and give it all in practice,” Larsen said.

In the co-featured main event, WBA / WBC / WBO Female Welterweight Champion Cecilia Braekhus (19-0, 5 KOs) will take on Jessica “The Hammer” Balgoun (22-1, 10 KOs). The First Lady will make her fifth fight in Herning – and the first since having her tonsils removed. “Everybody knows there is no stopping Cecilia inside the ring, so it was ironic and tragic that her tonsils forced her out of the super showdown with Anne Sophie Mathis,” promoter Nisse Sauerland said. “Now she has to prove herself against up-and-coming Balgoun, who at the age of 23 is ranked just four places behind her at BoxRec. It will be a tough evening for her but I am convinced that her superior boxing skills will lift her to another exciting victory.”

Speaking from her training camp base in Berlin, the First Lady said: “I am thrilled to be back. Balgoun has an impressive record but when I am at the top of my game nobody can beat me. I will defend my titles and hand her the second loss of her career.”

The full undercard for the Nordic Fight Night in Herning will be announced shortly. Tickets are available at www.billetnet.dk, via phone (+45 7033 1333) and at the MCH box office at MCH Herning Kongrescenter.

JOE "THE FUTURE" HANKS!

RETURNS FRIDAY, APRIL 27TH.

Star Boxing's undefeated heavyweight contender Joe "The Future" Hanks will return to action in a non-televised bout against veteran Marcus Rhode on Friday, April 27th at the Buffalo Run Casino and Resort in Miami, Oklahoma.

Later that night on ShoBox: The New Generation, (live on SHOWTIME, 11p ET/PT) super middleweights will be featured as Thomas Oosthuizen battles Marcus Johnson in a ten round bout and junior featherweights clash with Orlando Del Valle facing Chris Martin in a scheduled ten rounder along with an eight round junior lightweight bout between Jose Pedraza and Gil Garcia.

A native of Newark, New Jersey, now training out of Los Angeles, California, the 29-year-old Hanks kicked off his 2012 campaign on February 4th with a second round knockout of monstrous Cuban, Rafael Pedro.

The stoppage over Pedro at the Times Union Center in Albany, New York raised Hanks' record to 19-0-0 with thirteen knockouts as he defended his IBA Americas Heavyweight Title.

In addition to his training regimen, Hanks has also kept busy with former world title challenger Jameel "Big Time" McCline in the production of a new DVD for the BBC series, Frozen Planet. More information can be found at www.FrozenPlanetDvd.com

The Buffalo Run Casino is located at 1000 Buffalo Run Road, Miami, Oklahoma, 74354. For more information please visit their website at www.buffalorun.com

Gerber V Harris!

Edmund Gerber Wants To Make A Statement Against Maurice Harris.

The May 5 fight card at the Messehalle in Erfurt is going to be stacked up with big clashes for titles, like Marco Huck defending the WBO crown at cruiserweight against Ola Afolabi as well as Kubrat Pulev and Alexander Dimitrenko challenging for the vacant European Championship at heavyweight. Besides these highlights, the show is also going to offer some young guns who are trying to make themselves a name and entertain the crowd.

One of them is Edmund Gerber, who is currently, according to his manager Wilfried Sauerland, the biggest heavyweight talent to come out of Germany. Trained by Karsten Roewer, the Schwerin-native already has 19 wins in 19 fights under his belt, 13 of them coming by way of knockout.

The European Boxing Union (EBU) ranks him inside their top ten, which shows that he could already be considered to fight for their prestigious title. However, the 23-year-old Gerber does not just aim for a top ranking in Europe, but in the world. Therefore, a victory over Maurice Harris (25-15-2, 11 KOs) could be a big step forward as he is the current the number nine in the IBF ratings.

“I have had some sparring sessions with him last November which showed me that he is no slouch,” said Gerber of Harris. “That is why he held up his training intensity after his last fight in February. “I just took one week off before being back in the gym. We have specifically worked a lot on my stamina since.”

Moreover, stamina could really be a key factor against 36-year-old Maurice Harris, who is accustomed to fight over longer distances. In his last outing versus a then-still ambitioned Derric Rossy, the veteran fighter knocked out his younger compatriot in round twelve to win the USBA heavyweight title. Furthermore, not only his age speaks volumes of his experience but also the names he fought over his career: Tony Thompson, Fres Oquendo, Henry Akinwande, Chris Byrd, Larry Holmes, Siarhei Liakhovich, Jeremy Williams and David Izon. Of those named fighters, he was able to beat the latter three.

Edmund Gerber knows: “You have to pressure him right from to start, make him work hard to be able to beat him. I have to be absolutely focused till the bout is over because of him having this knockout power until the end.”

Senchenko V Malignaggi!

Malignaggi Predicts Win V Senchenko On Sunday PPV.

Former International Boxing Federation ("IBF") junior welterweight champion Paulie "Magic Man" Malignaggi (30-4, 6 KOs) is excited about his world title challenge this Sunday againstWorld Boxing Association ("WBA") welterweight Vyacheslav Senchenko (32-0, 21 KOs) is airing live in the United States on Integrated Sports Meida pay-per-view, live from Donbass Arena in Donetsk, Ukraine.

Senchenko vs. Malignaggi, presented by Union Boxing Promotion, is being distributed in the United States by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 1:00 PM/ET - 10:00 AM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, DISH Network and Avail-TVNfor a suggested retail price of only $29.95. The Apr. 29th card will also be available via on-line PPV at www.gofightlive.tv.

"I think it's great because American fans don't always get an opportunity like this to see fights held overseas," said Malignaggi, who arrived in the Ukraine today from his training camp in Milan. "This is a high-level fight and not expensive pay-per-view. My fans will be able to watch.

"This is a good style match-up. Fans will see what Paulie Malignaggi has left and if Senchenko is for real. No matter which way you look at it, fans can get together as a group to watch, or order it individually at home. Boxing fans want to see world title fights and this one they'll see me beat Senchenko."

Four other 12-round title bouts are scheduled on Sunday's PPV event. In the co-feature, Iago Kildaze (18-0, 12 KOs) defends his World Boxing Council ("WBC") Inter-Continental cruiserweight title belt against WBC Mediterranean champion Julien Perriauz (15-8, 12 KOs).

WBA No. 12 ranked Oleh "Doctor" Yefimovych defends his WBC Inter-Continental Featherweight crown against South American challenger Sergio Carlos "El Tigre" Santillan (29-11-3, 14 KOs).

Senchenko and stable-mate Yefimovych are both trained by Hall of Famer Freddie Roach.

International Boxing Council ("IBC") welterweight Volodymyr Kravests (25-1, 15 KOs), a 2004 Ukrainian Olympian, puts his championship strap on the line against French champion Abdoulaye Soukouna (14-10-6, 1 KO).

International favorite Michael Buffer will be the ring announcer. In addition, future Hall of Famer Evander Holyfield is a special guest at the PPV event.

Ryan Rhodes!

TOO MUCH CLASS FOR RABCHENKO.

RYAN RHODES is confident the gulf in class between him and Sergey Rabchenko will show in their ‘Road To Glory’ showdown.

Sheffield’s Rhodes (46-5) attempts to regain the European light-middleweight crown when he meets Rabchenko (20-0) for the vacant title at Manchester Velodrome on Saturday 16th June.

The Belarusian has knocked out 15 of his victims, but experienced Rhodes said: “There is no doubt that Rabchenko can punch, but he has been knocking out kids who have stood in front of him. I won’t be doing that.

“The one stand out name on his record is Bradley Pryce, but he hasn’t fought anybody who is in my class.”

The pair were due to clash last month, but unlucky Rhodes was forced to withdraw because of a back injury.

Ironically it was a similar problem that led him to being stripped of the European championship on 2010 when he was unable to fulfil a mandatory defence.

Rhodes added: “I am over my back injury and it is all systems go. My trainer Dave Coldwell is pushing me and so is my conditioner Mark Willie.

“I have had back problem since I was 25-years old. I don’t know if it is hereditary because my dad has similar problems are wear and tear because I have been boxing since I was six.

“It will be fine when I box Rabchenko and won’t stop me winning back a belt I never lost in the ring.

The ‘Road To Glory’ bill also features a vacant WBA interim super-bantamweight title fight between Scott Quigg and Rendall Munroe, Martin Murray in championship action and Rhodes’ fellow steel city fighter Richard Towers facing Michael Wallisch for the vacant EU heavyweight crown.

There will be a talent stacked undercard that will include former British and Commonwealth welterweight champion Craig Watson (20-5), unbeaten hopefuls Adam Etches (7-0), Scott Jenkins (4-0), Ryan Doyle (1-0), Jimmy Kelly (1-0).

Ticket prices are now on sale priced £125 (VIP Inner Ringside + exclusive cash bar), £100 Ringside, £55, £35 and £30. You can purchase tickets by calling Hatton Promotions hotline 01925 755 222/www.ticketmaster.co.uk/0844 847 2500/www.ticketline.co.uk/0844 888 4402/www.hmv.com

Mathis V Holm II!

June 15TH In Albuquerque.

Fresquez Productions held a press conference today to announce the much-anticipated June 15 rematch between French knockout-artist Anne Sophie Mathis and Holly "The Preacher's Daughter" Holm, universally considered the two best female boxers in the world, at Route 66 Casino Hotel in Albuquerque.

"The Reckoning," presented by Fresquez Productions in association with Route 66 Casino Hotel, will showcase a stylistic match-up between invading knockout specialist Mathis and the consummate boxer, southpaw Holm. Mathis will defend her IBA and WBAN welterweight title belts, as well as the mythical pound-for-pound crown, for the first time against the same opponent she upset to capture the straps from last December.

In her United States debut, at the same venue on top the "World Dominance" card, seven-time world champion Mathis scored a shocking seventh-round knockout of Holly, the local favorite who had been undefeated for more than seven years and her previous 24 consecutive fights.

"Anne Sophie Mathis and Holly Holm are the two best women fighters in the world," promoter Lenny Fresquez said. "Mathis proved herself but Holly is seeking retribution on June 15. Take nothing away from Anne Sophie, but Holly got out her game plan to box and got caught by some big punches. She plans to fight her fight, not Mathis' this time. Women boxing fans all over the world have been clamoring for the rematch and we're excited to be presenting it at the beautiful Route 66 Casino Hotel."

Mathis (26-1, 22 KOs) is riding a 25-fight win streak, dating back to 1995 when she lost her second pro fight. In addition to Holm, she's beaten other world champions such as Myriam Lamare (twice), Jane Couch, Duda Yankovich, Ana Pascal and Nathalie Toro.

Holm (30-2-3, 9 KOs) is a nine-time, three-division world champion who will be out to avenge her humbling loss last December at home to Mathis. Holly has defeated a Who's Who list of woman boxers from the 140 through 154-pound weight classes, including Christy Martin, Mary Jo Sanders, Mia St. John, Couch, Yankovich and Chevelle Hallback (twice).

Viloria V Romero III!

PPV Undercard.

A strong undercard has been announced for the May 12th "Island Assault 4: The Battle" pay-per-view-event, featuring Brian "Hawaiian Punch" Viloria vs. Omar Nino Romero III, live from Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City, Metro Manila, Philippines.

"Island Assault 4:The Battle," presented by Solar Sports, is being distributed in the United States by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9:00 PM/ET - 6:00 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, DISH Network and Avail-TVN for a suggested retail price of only $29.95. "Island Assault 4: The Battle" will also be available in Canada to Super Channel subscribers. For on-line PPV viewers go to Ustream.tv at http://www.ustream.tv/integratedsportsppv.

The completion of the Viloria-Romero trilogy, originally slated for March 31, was temporarily delayed because the Nevada State Athletic Commission prevented the World Boxing Organization ("WBO") from sanctioning the fight due to unpaid penalties on Romero's part. From 2006, Romero has amassed a total of $11,500 in penalties which he needed to pay before the fight is sanctioned.

Three-time world champion Viloria (30-3, 16 KOs), a 2000 U.S. Olympian, defends his "WBO" title belt against two-time world title-holder Romero (31-4-2, 13 KOs), in the 12-round main event. Viloria won his first 20 pro fights, until he lost the World Boxing Council ("WBC") light flyweight championship to Romero by way of a 12-round unanimous decision in 2006. Three months later, their rematch ended in a draw that was later changed to a "no contest" when Romero failed a post-fight drug test.

The 10-round co-feature matches a pair of former world champions, Julio Cesar "Pingo" Miranda (37-6-1, 29 KOs) and Rodel "Kid Rapido" Mayol (30-5-2, 22 KOs), in a 10-round bout with future world flyweight title fight implications.

Miranda, rated No. 3 by the WBO and No. 4 by the World Boxing Association ("WBA"), is a Mexican knockout artist who dropped his WBO title fight last year to Viloria. WBC No. 9 and IBF #12 Mayol, a Filipino now living in Los Angeles, lost his WBC Light Flyweight crown, ironically, to Romero in 2010.

The remainder of the May 12 PPV card is filled-out by the next wave of Filipino prospects. Robert "Battlin' Bert" Udtuhan (17-1-1, 13 KOs) faces Alvin Makiling (9-4-1, 2 KOs) in a 12-round match for the Interim WBO Asia-Pacific Bantamweight Championship. In a special 10-round Featherweight Attraction, undefeated featherweight Jun "Chainsaw" Doliguez (11-0, & KOs) fights veteran Jonel "Mulawin" Alibio (16-13-2, 8 KOs).

LOCKED N' LOADED!

THOMPSON BOXING RETURNS ON MAY 11TH.

Welterweights, featherweights and a tremendous female flyweight clash headline the explosive Thompson Boxing Promotions fight card on Friday, May 11. The spectacular event takes place at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario.

In the main event Aron Martinez (16-1-1, 3 KOs) faces Joshua Marks (8-3, 8 KOs)in an eight round welterweight collision.

East L.A.'s "Asesino" Martinez, 30, returns to Ontario with his roughhouse style of fighting and eagerness to slug it out. Wins over Pavel Miranda, the always tough Albert Herrera, undefeated Joseph Elegele and back and forth battering with Dashon Johnson excited the fight fans and proved Martinez a fan favorite. Next up is Marks.

Marks, 24, otherwise known as "Superman," hails from El Centro, California and is purely a knockout puncher. It's feast or famine for the hard-hitting Marks who relies heavily on putting opponents to sleep. Known for his particularity on his winning methods. "Superman" likes knockouts not decisions. After 11 pro bouts Marks can also brag he has never been a victim of a knockout.

Tickets for "LOCKED N' LOADED" are priced at $75, $45, and $30. They are available now and may be purchased by calling 714-935-0900.

In the semi-main event Cali, Colombia's undefeated #10 WBA, #10 IBF, #5 WBO,Jhonatan "Momo" Romero (20-0, 12 KOs) returns to the Doubletree to face Merida, Mexico's Jose Silveira (12-5-1, 7 KOs) in a junior featherweight match up.

Romero, 25, last fought at the Doubletree nearly a year ago and despite suffering an early knockdown, was able to rally to victory after six rounds of terse action. He followed that up with an impressive victory over Lancaster, California's big punching Chris Avalos at the Chumash Casino on his US ShoBox televised debut. Romero returns but has dropped down a weight division.

Silveira earned the title of boxer with the most character over Christopher Martin with 52 percent of all votes cast by boxing aficionados via text message and on Univision.com. He is now in third place in the "Cinturón Tecate" competition, behind Jessie Vargas and Jayson Velez.

One of the best female fights this year will take place when Riverside's undefeated Sindy "La Alacrana" Amador (7-0, 1 KOs) faces San Diego's undefeated Amaris "Diamond Girl" Quintana(6-0-2, 1 KO) in a flyweight bout set for six rounds.

Amador last fought at the Doubletree Hotel this past February and won an exciting battle against Palm Springs boxer Gloria Salas. Amador is a punching machine and doesn't like to waste a second inside the ring. Winging punches is what she does best and puts the pressure on at 100 percent. She fights out of Riverside's Capital Punishment Gym.

Quintana, 22, combines speed, boxing skills and a fearless attitude whenever she fights in the ring. Never in a boring fight she has victories over the same opponents as Amador but has two draws against world title challenger Melissa McMorrow. Expect a large crowd from San Diego to arrive when she fights. She's a big fan favorite and eagerly accepted the fight.

Others performing will be junior welterweight Rigoberto Flores (3-1, 2 KOs) of Northridge as he faces Bhakari Gates (2-7) in a 6-round competition, lightweight Sergio Nunez (5-0-1, 3 KOs) of Sylmar will take on Santa Ana's Ramon Flores (3-14-2, 3 KOs), and junior featherweight Juan Reyes (4-1-1) of Riverside versus San Diego's Pablo Cupul (2-4-2, 2 KOs) in a 6-round war.

Bouts subject to change. Doors open at 6:30 pm, and the first bell rings at 7:30 pm. The Doubletree Hotel is located at 222 North Vineyard Avenue in Ontario. The hotel phone number is 909-937-0900.

Robert Woge!

I Have Arrived.

Robert Woge (8-0, 7 KO´s) will face his next challenge on his way to the top on May 5 at the Messehalle in Erfurt. Further to the three boxing highlights of Marco Huck´s (34-2, 25 KO´s) WBO cruiserweight title defense, Robert Stieglitz´s (41-2, 23 KO´s) mandatory defense of his super-middleweight belt and the bout for the vacant European heavyweight title between Kubrat Pulev (15-0, 7 KO´s) and Alexander Dimitrenko (32-1, 21 KO´s), Robert Woge will take on his ninth opponent. This time he will face off with Ferenc Hafner from Hungray. Hafner is currently unbeaten in his twelve fights as a professional, ending nine of the bouts early.

The fight in Erfurt is a special occasion for the Bernburg-born Woge. “A lot of my friends will be there to support me. This is like a fight on home soil. I want to shine on the night.” He definitely did so during his last bout. The last man who fell victim to Woge was Carl Dilks on March 31 in Kiel. Dilks got knocked down twice before the referee had to end the fight prematurely. “I am where I want to be,” said the German afterwards. “I was really nervous during my first outing at a Sauerland show back in October 2010. But that is definitely a thing of the past. I have arrived and it is going really well now.”

And so it should be. In Hafner, Woge is facing a previously undefeated professional. “I am taking him quite lightly. It was the same thing before the last match-up. I am always sparring against top quality opponents, therefore I can take on the next challenge in a relaxed manner,” says the resident of Halle an der Saale in a calm manner. He then continues:”Of course it is tough to break the will of an opponent who is undefeated. But I am ready for the challenge. I only took four or five days off after my last fight. After that I immediately continued with the preparations for this fight. I am in great shape.”

The fact that his Hungarian opponent is a southpaw does not bother the prodigy of coach Ulli Wegner in the slightest. “Actually I always did really well against southpaws during my amateur days,” says the light-heavyweight. “I haven´t fought against one on a professional level but the Italian Roberto Cocco, who I faced last February, changed his style during the fight. That did not matter to me at all. In contrary: I still won against him early in round seven.”

Dirks V Ulrich!

Third Time´s The Charm.

Another exciting match-up is on the cards on May 5 in Erfurt: Light-Heavyweights Dustin Dirks and Thomas Ulrich, both from Germany, will square off in the Messehalle. Dirks is undefeated, having won all of his previous 23 fights (17 KOs). Ulrich on the other hand surprisingly lost his last bout back in April 2011 against the Lithuanian Sergej Razvadovskij. The record of the former European Champion stands at 32 victories (22 KOs) to six losses out of 38 fights. The fight in the Messehalle will determine who will play a bigger role in the future of the light-heavyweight division.

Up until now the bout has been ill-omened. The fight has already been rescheduled twice. The first time, Thomas Ulrich had to cancel the bout scheduled for January 14. During his training camp, the former European champion broke his left eye socket while sparring in the ring. “It was a fracture to my orbital cavity. It looked worse than it actually was. But of course I was not able to step into the ring. Fortunately I did not have to rest too much and I was able to continue with my running training,” remembers Ulrich.

A lot is on the line for the 36-year-old. The former world title challenger and previous European champion knows that he will have a strong opposition in Dirks. “He is a tough kid, maybe even the rising star in the division,” said the boxer of coach Ali Yildirim. “If I manage to access only 80 % of my abilities, it could be enough for a strong guy such as Dirks is.” Coach Yildirim is just as confident as his boxer. “In my opinion, Thomas is still a natural. If he just keeps boxing and his head is right, he can challenge the very best the sport has to offer.”

Dustin Dirks is not taking his opponent lightly either. The prodigy of coach Otto Ramin had to pass on the second date of the fight scheduled for March 31 in Kiel. “It started off with a flu. Then I was head-butted during sparring and had a bruise. I had a huge headache. And it turned out that I also had a dislocation of a vertebra in my neck. Now I am fine and look forward to taking on Thomas Ulrich. I have never faced such a strong opponent,” according to the 23-year-old.

Although both men are from Berlin and both are signed to the same team, it is not about the prestige. “I treat every opponent the same way and with the same level of respect. Therefore it is a fight like any other. Some people may say that he is past his peak but I have to be prepared for every eventuality,” Dirks said. “He probably just had a bad day during his last fight. It could be a whole different thing when he squares off with me. Ulrich is very agile. He is also capable off throwing some fast punches. For both of us this fight will determine where we stand.”

As both Berlin-based men are in full training mode, the bout scheduled for May 5 should go ahead as planned and third time hopefully is the charm. The night of boxing in Erfurt also offers some more world-class fights: Marco Huck (34-2, 25 KOs) will defend his WBO Cruiserweight World Championship against mandatory challenger and interim champion Ola Afolabi (19-2-3, 9 KOs). Super-Middleweight World Champion Robert Stieglitz (41-2, 3 KOs) also puts his belt on the line on the same night. The boxing fans can also look forward to a heavyweight title fight when Kubrat Pulev (15-0, 7 KOs) and Alexander Dimitrenko (32-1, 21 KOs) will battle it out for the vacant European Championship.

Kid Chocolate V Winky Wright!

'Kid Chocolate' Plans To Crack Winky's Shell On Showtime.

Undefeated middleweight contender Peter "Kid Chocolate" Quillin plans to crack Ronald "Winky" Wright's defensive shell, in addition to possibly becoming the first to knockout the four-time light middleweight champion, June 2 in their 10-round Showtime co-feature at Home Depot Center in Carson, California.

"I love crabmeat," Quillin said. "It's in a shell and you have to crack it to get to the meat. That's what I'm going to do to 'Winky'; hit his arms, body, all over - take no prisoners!"

The 40-year-old Wright (51-5-1, 25 KOs), naturally, has a tremendous experience advantage over Quillin (26-0-, 20 KOs), who was seven years old attending grammar school in Grand Rapids, Michigan, when "Winky" made his pro debut in 1990.

"Winky" hasn't fought in three years but he has had significantly more fights (57-26), rounds (394-97), and years as a pro (21 ½ - 6 ½) than Quillin, who, of course, hopes to be the first non-world champion to defeat Wright, as well as stop the defensive southpaw for the first time. In a class comparison, Wright has a decided edge having defeated all-time greats such as Felix Trinidad and Shane Mosely, while Qullin's most notable win came against Craig McEwan in his last fight and HBO debut.

"I understand the risk," Quillin commented. "I fear no man and I'm so confident because I'm working hard, six days at week, at Wild Card Gym (trainers Freddie Roach and Eric Brown), and with (strength-and-conditioning coach) Brad Bose. I've dedicated my life to boxing. 'Winky' is a future Hall of Famer. Beating him will give me respect. He's a good defensive fighter and I need rounds. None of my last five fights have gone more than six rounds (19 total).

"I'm not taking him lightly, even if he's 40 and has been off for a few years. I am challenging myself to see if I can be the first to stop him. I worked five weeks with Freddie Roach, soaking up everything he said and showed me, to learn about becoming a more complete fighter. This fight is make-or-break for me."

Team Kid Chocolate believes the risk of fighting an experienced, potentially dangerous Wright is well worth the reward.

"We feel Peter is on the threshold of becoming a special fighter," explained John Seip, who co-manages Quillin with Jim McDevitt. "He is fighting a future Hall of Fame fighter who still possesses a lot of boxing skills, knowledge and experience. This fight is a good test for Peter. We take one fight at a time but are confident and ready for 'Winky.' Peter is training hard and he is not taking anything for granted. He is focused and prepared. This will be the beginning of a very exciting year for Peter. The middleweight division has become a very interesting weight class and beating 'Winky' will position Peter as one of the top middleweight contenders in the world."

Fight Night At The Horseshoe!

Returns May 25TH.

Hitz Boxing's popular "Fight Night at the Horseshoe" series will return on Friday, May 25, 2012, at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana, featuring Chicago's own former heavyweight title challenger and long-time top contender "Fast" Fres Oquendo (33-7, 21 KOs) in the 10-round main event.

As has become the trademark of these successful shows, promoter Bobby Hitz has packed the undercard with local and international talent, including NABA-US Lightweight Champion Yakubu "Black Mamba" Amidu (20-3-1, 18 KOs) of Los Angeles via Ghana, in a six-round bout; undefeated heavyweight crowd pleaser David "Diesel" Latoria (10-0, 5 KOs), also in a six-rounder; popular Chicago super-middleweight dynamo Mike "Hollywood" Jimenez (6-0, 3 KOs) will go six rounds; undefeated heavyweight powerhouse David Martin III (5-0, 4 KOS) of Hobart, Indiana, will fight four or less; fighting light welterweight gym owner Genaro Mendez (4-1-1, 3 KOs) will go six rounds; nearby Chesterton, Indiana, heavyweight Philip Triantafillo (2-0, 1 KO) will fight a four-rounder and professional super flyweight and former National Jr. Olympic Champion Johnny "WiteBoi" Determan (4-0, 3 KOs) from Nebraska will go four rounds.

"Due to the tremendous success of these shows and the record-breaking crowd we welcomed at the last show, we are bringing back several of the most popular fighters and introducing some new talent as well," said Hitz Boxing Founder, Bobby Hitz. "Boxing shows at the Horseshoe are like bringing Las Vegas to the Midwest. It's a fantastic venue with terrific people to work with and we're all very excited about this great event."

All opponents will be announced shortly.

The high-class atmosphere and luxurious surroundings the Horseshoe has to offer make their boxing shows a Las Vegas-style night of boxing that Chicago-area fans don't have to get on a plane to enjoy.

The Horseshoe Casino has an intimate, comfortable venue with luxurious seats, a spectacular gaming area, free parking, exquisite food and all the amenities -- and is just 20 minutes from Downtown Chicago.

Tickets for "Fight Night at the Horseshoe" are on sale now, starting at a fan appreciation price of $10, and are available atthe "Venue" box office, ticketmaster.com and all Ticketmaster outlets.

Richard Towers!

Road To Glory.

UNBEATEN heavyweight Richard Towers is up for winning his first professional title at Manchester Velodrome on Saturday June 16.

Sheffield’s unbeaten faces German Michael Wallisch for the vacant EU heavyweight crown on Hatton Promotions title stacked card.

The ‘Road To Glory’ bill also features a vacant WBA interim super-bantamweight title fight between Scott Quigg and Rendall Munroe, Martin Murray in championship action and Towers’ fellow steel city fighter Ryan Rhodes facing Sergey Rabchenko for the vacant European light-middleweight crown.

Towers, 32, said: "This is the biggest fight of my life and when I get in the ring I will do my job.

"I have already been to Gran Canaria for warm weather training earlier this year and I am training three times a day.

"I am already feeling the direct benefit from these sessions and the Wallisch fight cannot come quick enough."

Wallisch, 26, stands 6ft 5in tall and won all eight professional contests with five of his victories coming inside the distance.

But he will be dwarfed by 6ft 8in Towers who is unbeaten in 13 professional fights and rapidly closing in on men like Dereck Chisora, Tyson Fury and David Price.

Towers added: "I am blessed to have a brilliant team around me and all I have to do is be dedicated and live the life.

"I will fight anybody and I am getting closer to fighting guys like Fury and Price, but only when my team tell me it is right.

"I have only been boxing four-and-a-half years, but I have picked up this sport quickly.

"I have already sparred with Chisora and Fury. They are men I respect, but when I meet them they will discover I am unorthodox and different."

There will be a talent stacked undercard that will include former Commonwealth welterweight champion Craig Watson (20-5), unbeaten hopefuls Adam Etches (7-0), Scott Jenkins (4-0), Ryan Doyle (1-0), Jimmy Kelly (1-0).

Ticket prices are now on sale priced £125 (VIP Inner Ringside + exclusive cash bar), £100 Ringside, £55, £35 and £30. You can purchase tickets by calling Hatton Promotions hotline 01925 755 222/www.ticketmaster.co.uk/0844 847 2500/www.ticketline.co.uk/0844 888 4402/www.hmv.com

RODRIGUEZ V TROUT!

WORLD TITLE FIGHT ON JUNE 2ND.

World ranked junior middleweight contender Delvin "EL Peligro" Rodriguez has signed on to challenge defending WBA World Champion Austin "No Doubt" Trout on Saturday, June 2nd at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California, it was announced today by Joe DeGuardia, President of Star Boxing.

The twelve round Rodriguez/Trout clash will be broadcast on Showtime World Championship Boxing as part of their scheduled "quadruple header" evening of LIVE professional boxing.

"This is an excellent opportunity for Delvin and we're very thankful to Showtime for broadcasting his world title fight against Austin Trout. Delvin's been looking for big fights since his dominating win over Pawel Wolak in December at Madison Square Garden and was thrilled when we spoke about the world title fight" said DeGuardia.

"'Delvin hasn't fought on the West Coast since early in his career, and the Home Depot Center is an outstanding venue for boxing and he's looking forward to fighting in front of the knowledgeable and supportive Southern California fight fans."

Born in the Dominican Republic and now residing in Danbury, Connecticut, the East Coast fan favorite Rodriguez, 28-5-3 (14KO's), has been a staple of ESPN2's Friday Night Fights for many years, having appeared eleven times and participating in numerous memorable battles.

In 2011, Rodriguez's ten round war with Pawel Wolak was named "Fight of the Year" by the Boxing Writers Association of American along with numerous other boxing outlets. The unforgettable fight, promoted by Star Boxing and broadcast on ESPN2's Friday Night Fights, took place at a sold out Roseland Ballroom in New York City on July 15th with Rodriguez valiantly fighting to a ten round majority draw over the bull-rushing Wolak.

In the rematch with Wolak on December 3rd in front of a sold out Madison Square Garden crowd and broadcast on HBO Pay Per View, Rodriguez dominated Wolak in winning a lopsided ten round unanimous decision. Rodriguez brought the sold out Garden crowd to its feet in the 10th and final round as he went for the knockout and brutally battered Wolak, who was saved by the bell.

Rodriguez is currently world ranked #5 by the IBF, WBA and WBO along with #7 by the WBC. He previously challenged for the IBF World Title on August 1, 2009, losing an exceptionally close and controversial split decision to Hlatshwayo. Four of Rodriguez' five loses have been controversial split or majority decisions.

Sporting a record of 24-0-0 with fourteen knockouts, Trout won his world title with a twelve round unanimous decision over Rigoberto Alvarez on February 5, 2011 in Jalisco, Mexico. He has defended it twice, most recently stopping Frank LoPorto on November 11th in El Paso, Texas.

Nielsen Stops Vega!

Wins WBA Intercontinental Middleweight Title.

Patrick Nielsen (14-0, 8 KOs) is the new WBA Intercontinental Middleweight Champion following a spectacular tenth-round KO victory over Gaston Vega (17-5, 6 KOs).

Fighting in front of 2,758 fans at a boisterous Arena Nord in Frederikshavn, the 21-year-old stamped his authority on the battle early. In the seventh, he floored Vega with a powerful combination, but the Argentinian recovered and fought back. In a huge round nine, Nielsen knocked his opponent down again but then went down himself after an exchange. However, he quickly regained his composure and ended the bout in style in the tenth when he scored two more knock-downs for the referee to wave the bout off.

“I am thrilled to be the WBA Intercontinental Champion,” Nielsen said. “This is a big win for me. It was a tough fight. I was provoked badly by Vega and his ‘slayer’ shirt so I wanted to make him pay. I am glad I knocked him out in the end.”

Vega said it was a tough fight. “It was all or nothing for me in the end, I knew it would go one way or the other in the tenth round, I am very, very disappointed that I lost. It was a hard fight.”

Said promoter Nisse Sauerland: “Congratulations to Patrick for a spirited and courageous performance. It was an exciting fight, Vega gave it his all but Patrick´s superior skills and superior power succeeded in the end. This was an important victory for him. He will now enter the WBA rankings and continue his climb to the top. It was a great night of boxing in Frederikshavn with a fantastic atmosphere.”

In an action-packed undercard, European Super-Middleweight Champion James DeGale defended his title with a fourth-round TKO victory versus Cristian Sanavia. Andreas Evensen clinched the WBA International Featherweight Title with a majority decision against Willie “Big Bang” Casey, while Reda Zam Zam scored a fifth-round TKO victory over Broislav Kubin. Erik Skoglund knocked out Alberto Antenucci in the second round, and local hero Torben Keller TKOed Aliaksandr Abramenka in the fifth. Simon Smadaal also celebrated a successful pro debut with a first-round KO versus Pavel Staravoitau.

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Nielsen & Vega Make Weight!

DeGale & Sanavia Ready.

Here are the weights from Frederikshavn ahead of tomorrow´s Nordic Fight Night:

WBA Intercontinental Middleweight Title:

Patrick Nielsen: 72,2 kg
Gaston Vega: 72,4 kg

European Super-Middleweight Title:

James DeGale: 76,2 kg
Cristian Sanavia: 76 kg

WBA International Featherweight Title:

Andreas Evensen: 57,1 kg
Willie Casey: 56,8 kg

ESCALERA V BRINSON!

ESPN2 FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS.

Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing has announced a sensational super middleweight clash between Jason "Monstruo" Escalera and Nick "Machine Gun" Brinson for their ESPN2 Friday Night Nights event set for Friday, May 18th at the Times Union Center in Albany, NY.

The Escalera/Brinson scheduled eight rounder is the chief support to the junior welterweight showdown between undefeated contenders Ray 'Tito" Serrano and Karim "Hard Hitta" Mayfield for the NABO Championship.

The 27 year old, heavy-handed Escalera, sporting a record of 13-0-0 (12KO's), has stunned boxing fans in the New York/New Jersey area with his show stopping knockouts since turning professional four years ago.

Recently (February 4th), the Union City, New Jersey based Escalera made his Albany debut with a devastating fourth round stoppage of Marcus Brooks at the Times Union Center.

Fighting out of Geneva, New York, the 24-year-old Brinson heads into battle with Escalera with a record of 9-1-1 (5KO's). He is currently riding a two bout-winning streak since suffering his only loss, by then undefeated prospect Lennox Allen in November 2010.

"For both guys this is an opportunity to fight in front of a huge live crowd at the Times Union Center in Albany as well as show the national audience on ESPN and the rest of the world that they can take the next step" said DeGuardia.

"With similar records it's a true showdown between 2 prospects. Escalera and Brinson and they have very contrasting styles. Escalera has been brutally knocking out just about everyone while Brinson is much more of a boxer-puncher."

In addition to the two headlining bouts Star Boxing will soon be announcing details of a terrific undercard including the return of Capital Region's favorite son Kevin "Kid" Rooney Jr.

Priced at $75, $50, $40 and $30, advance tickets will be available through Ticketmaster, (www.Ticketmaster.com, 800-745-3000) or at the Times Union Center Box Office, (1-800-30-EVENT), and at select Wal-Mart Music Centers. Tickets are also available by calling Star Boxing at 718-823-2000 or on their website at www.starboxing.com.

The Times Union Center is location at 51 South Pearl Street in Albany, New York, 12207. Doors on the night of the event will open at 6:30pm with the first bell scheduled for 7:30pm.

Mathews V Crolla!

DERRY’S REASONS FOR FACING CROLLA.

DERRY MATHEWS insists he wouldn’t have agreed to face Anthony Crolla unless Danny Vaughan returned to his corner.

The Liverpool ace (29-6-1) had been trained by Oliver Harrison, but was re-united with former handler Vaughan for Saturday’s challenge against British lightweight champion Anthony Crolla (23-2).

Mathews, 28, set up training camps in Scotland and Spain ahead of his test against Crolla at Oldham Sports Centre.

He said: “I am back with my old trainer, Danny Vaughan and that is the reason I took this fight.

“I got offered it and if Danny had said ‘no’ to training me I wouldn’t have taken the fight.

“I have been away, had great sparring, prepared right and everything is going good.”

Mathews is the underdog when he faces improving Crolla, but promised: “From the first bell to the last it is going to be non-stop action.

“I know how good Anthony is and I am expecting to face a good, strong fit opponent and I haven’t look past him.”

Other Contests: Matty Askin v Jon Lewis Dickinson (10x3 vacant English cruiserweight championship and British title eliminator), Stephen Foster Jr v Jose Antonio Elizabeth (6x3 super-featherweight), Jazza Dickins v Yuri Voronin (6x3 super-bantamweight), Lucas Browne v Paul Butlin (6x3 heavyweight), Adam Little v Chris Jenkinson (6x3 welterweight), Tommy Stubbs v Gavin Reid (4x3 bantamweight), Ryan Doyle v Selected Opponent (4x3 featherweight).

Boxing starts at 6.15pm and tickets are on sale. They are priced at £35 general admission, £55 floor seating, £75 ringside and £100 VIP Ringside. You can buy by calling the Hatton Box Office 01925 755 222, Ticketmaster 0844 847 2500, Ticketline 0844 888 9991, any boxer on the bill or online www.hattonboxing.com

Senchenko V Malignaggi!

PPV Undercard.

Ukrainians rank among the best contemporary boxers in the world. American fans will now get their first collective look at some of these standout fighters on the undercard of the April 29th World Boxing Association ("WBA") welterweight world title fight between undefeated world champion Vyacheslav Senchenko (32-0, 21 KOs) and challenger Paulie "Magic Man" Malignaggi (30-4, 6 KOs), airing live on pay per viewfrom Donbass Arena in Donetsk, Ukraine.

Senchenko vs. Malignaggi, presented by Union Boxing Promotion, is being distributed in the United States by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 1:00 PM/ET - 10:00 AM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, DISH Network and Avail-TVNfor a suggested retail price of only $29.95. The Apr. 29th card will also be available via on-line PPV at www.gofightlive.tv.

"Boxing is an international sport and we're very happy to introduce some possible future world champions from Ukraine, as well as France and South America, to boxing fans in the United States," Integrated Sports Media president Doug Jacobs said. "Not only will they be treated to a tremendous fight between Senchenko and Malignaggi, they will enjoy a full afternoon of world-class boxing."

World Boxing Council ("WBC") Inter-Continental Cruiserweight Champion Iago Kildaze (18-0, 12 KOs) defends his belt against WBC Mediterranean title-holder Julien Perriauz (15-8, 12 KOs) in the 12-round co-feature.

WBC Inter-Continental Featherweight Champion Oleh "Doctor" Yefimovych, the WBA No. 12 ranked and top European contender, defends against South American challenger Sergio Carlos "El Tigre" Santillan (29-11-3, 14 KOs) in the third of five 12-round championship matches.

Senchenko and stable-mate Yefimovych are both trained by Hall of Famer Freddie Roach.

Also fighting on the undercard is 2004 Ukrainian Olympian Volodymyr Kravests (25-1, 15 KOs), defending his International Boxing Council ("IBC") welterweight crown against French champion Abdoulaye Soukouna (14-10-6, 1 KO).

Ukrainian favorite Andy Kudryavtsev (39-9, 17 KOs) takes on undefeated Frenchman Samir Ziani (10-0-1, 2 KOs) for the vacant WBA International Lightweight Championship.

International favorite Michael Buffer will be the ring announcer.

Go online to www.integratedsportsnet.com for additional information. Follow Integrated Sports Media on Twitter @IntegratedPPV.

HEARNS V LARA!

HEARNS LOOKING TO MAKE A STATEMENT THIS FRIDAY.

Tomorrow night, in a special edition of ShoBox: The New Generation on SHOWTIME®, former undisputed 160-pound world champion Jermain Taylor (29-4-1, 18 KO's) meets the undefeated Caleb "Golden" Truax (18-0-1, 10 KO's) in the 10-round main event. In the 10-round co-feature, former middleweight world title challenger Ronald Hearns (26-2, 20KO's) will be dropping down in weight and looking to establish himself as a force in the junior middleweight division when he takes on former Cuban amateur standout Erislandy Lara (15-1-1, 10 KO's). The fight between Hearns and Lara was originally scheduled for February 11 as the co-feature to Victor Ortiz vs. Andre Berto II, but that was rescheduled after a Berto injury caused a postponement of the event. Both bouts will be shown live on SHOWTIME (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi, Miss. The card is promoted by DiBella Entertainment (DBE) in association with Golden Boy Promotions.

For Hearns, the son of all-time great and soon-to-be hall-of-famer Thomas "The Hitman" Hearns, it will be the first time back in the ring since losing to "Super" WBA Middleweight Champion, Felix Sturm in February 2011. Hearns put forth a spirited effort against the longtime reigning champion Sturm, but was eventually stopped in the seventh round. Now after some time off, Hearns is looking to not just return to the ring but to make a statement when he takes on the extremely talented and dangerous Lara.

"This fight can open up the doors for me to fight some of the top guys in both weight classes, 154 or 160," said Hearns. "Lara is a very talented fighter. I am grateful for the opportunity."

Regarding the weight at which he will look to fight, Hearns says he is just looking for the biggest opportunities out there for him, and he is comfortable competing in either division.

"I don't have a problem making weight in either weight class. I was bringing my weight down too early and holding it for weeks at a time. This training camp has been great. The world is going to see how much I have improved."

Hearns, who, like his father, is trained by the legendary Emanuel Steward, has been getting arguably the best southpaw sparring available, as he has been working with stable-mate, and imminent middleweight world title challenger, Andy Lee. Lee, who will be challenging Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. for the WBC Middleweight Championship on June 16th, has not only been working with Ronald during training camp, but will also be in his corner on fight night. Lee feels that in all of the years they have worked together that this is the best Ronald has ever looked.

"I've had some hard hitting and spirited workouts with Ronald the past two weeks," said Lee. "I think it's been a benefit to us both. He is looking good for this Friday night for sure. He's determined to win. I've never seen him hit like this before. It should be a great fight."

The special edition of ShoBox: The New Generation is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Golden Boy Promotions. SHOWTIME® will begin live coverage starting at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

Tickets, priced at $150, $100, and $50 plus tax and service charges, are available online at www.beaurivage.com, by phone at (888) 566-7469, or in person at the Beau Rivage Theatre box office. Beau Rivage room reservations can be made by calling (888) 567-6667 or visiting www.beaurivage.com.

Matty Askin!

DICKINSON IS ASKIN FOR TROUBLE.

MATTY ASKIN believes his strength will be too much for Jon Lewis Dickinson to handle in their big cruiserweight contest.

The pair collide in a ten rounder for the vacant English championship and an eliminator for Enzo Maccarinelli’s British crown at Oldham Sports Centre on Saturday night (April 21).

Their 50-50 battle is the chief supporting bout on the card topped by Anthony Crolla’s British lightweight title defence against Derry Mathews.

Unbeaten Askin, 23, said: “Dickinson is going to be awkward and try to nick rounds, but he won’t be able to match me for speed and strength.

“He has some impressive wins, but how much willpower and determination will he have when I take it to him from round one?”

Blackpool’s Askin (13-0) has been making daily three hour round trips from his home to Hatton Health and Fitness in Hyde sparring many rounds preparing for geordie Dickinson (10-2).

He added: “I have sparred a ridiculous amount of rounds regularly working with ten to 12 rounds with three different lads.

“It was quality sparring and the lads I used were all ambitious and threw plenty of shots.”

Other Contests: Stephen Foster Jr v Jose Antonio Elizabeth (6x3 super-featherweight), Jazza Dickins v Yuri Voronin (6x3 super-bantamweight), Lucas Browne v Paul Butlin (6x3 heavyweight), Adam Little v Chris Jenkinson (6x3 welterweight), Tommy Stubbs v Gavin Reid (4x3 bantamweight), Ryan Doyle v Selected Opponent (4x3 featherweight).

Boxing starts at 6.15pm and tickets are on sale. They are priced at £35 general admission, £55 floor seating, £75 ringside and £100 VIP Ringside. You can buy by calling the Hatton Box Office 01925 755 222, Ticketmaster 0844 847 2500, Ticketline 0844 888 9991, any boxer on the bill or online www.hattonboxing.com

Boxing In Paradise V!

Hard Punching Jackson Brothers Headline.

On Wednesday, April 25, in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, promoter Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing and co-promoter Lesley Commission of 340 Boxing Promotions will proudly present "Boxing in Paradise V" featuring knockout artist John Jackson (12-0, 11 KOs) defending his WBC Super Welterweight Youth World Title for the first time against fellow undefeated Jesus "Chino" Selig (14-0-1, 9 KOs) of Douglas, Arizona, in the 10-round main event.

23-year-old Jackson was a 2008 USVI Olympic representative. He and his brother, undefeated super middleweight contender Julius, are the sons of former World Middleweight Champion and one of the hardest punchers in boxing history, Julian "The Hawk" Jackson.

In the co-main event, brother Julius (12-0, 8 KOs), also a 2008 Olympian, will face Wilson "Kid Wonder" Theophile (8-3, 4 KOs) of Nassau, Bahamas, over 10 rounds for the vacant WBC Youth Super Middleweight Silver Title.

Topping the undercard, Samuel Rogers (11-0 9 KOs), nephew of Julian, will make the first defense of his WBC FECARBOX Title against Durrell Richardson (13-4, 5 KOs) of Youngstown, Ohio.

The balance of the card will consist of 2 four-round bouts, featuring the Joseph brothers of St. Croix, USVI.

Super Middleweight Clarence Joseph will be looking for his first victory (after being involved in two No Contest fights) against Eric Clinton 1-6 of Tallahassee, Florida, while super middleweight Austin Joseph will make his pro debut against Adam Schwartz (1-3) of Pembroke Pines, Florida.

Prior to these professional bouts the USVI's finest amateurs will see action as part of 340 Promotion's commitment to "Operation London 2012", which lends support to this year's USVI's Olympic hopefuls.

Molina Wants The Best!

Forget Politics & Tricks. Fight Me Because You're True Champions.

Tired of all the undeserved setbacks, controversial outcomes and political maneuvering he's suffered through in his career, top junior middleweight contender Carlos Molina says he wishes to appeal directly to other old-school boxers like himself.

"Everyone knows I'm the number-one contender in this division. I haven't legitimately lost, or even had a draw, in a fight since 2006. And the list of guys I beat in that time is the most impressive of any other contender in the top 10. What I want to say to the world champions at 154 lbs is this: don't hide behind rankings to avoid me. Fight me because I'm the true #1 contender and that's what an old-school champion would do."

Molina (19-5-2, 6 KOs) maintains the boxing world is well aware of his victory over former world champion Kermit Cintron, the victories stolen from him over top contenders Erislandy Lara (controversial draw) and Eric Kirkland (mystifyingly illegal disqualification), as well as his highly controversial draw and rematch decision loss earlier in his career to current middleweight champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.

"I've beaten all these top guys. Everybody knows that. So let's see if one of these champions at 154 will step around people I should be rated above and fight me, just because they want to know if they're the best in the world. Can you imagine Joe Louis stepping past someone because of boxing politics? Or Rocky Marciano?"

Molina hopes that inside one of today's champions or top contenders such as, Saul Alvarez (WBC), Austin Trout (WBA), Cornelius Bundrage (IBF), Zaurbek Baysangurov (WBO), Paul Williams, Lara (again), and Kirkland (again) beats the heart of a true fighter.

"I fight anybody, any time because I want to beat the best. Do any of these guys want to know if they can beat the true #1 contender at 154 lbs in the world? Join me in the old school, where champions are champions because they fight and beat the best. Let's make it happen."

ESPN Friday Night Fights!

Undercard Announced For April 27TH Card.

Roy Jones Jr.’s Square Ring Promotions will bring five undercard bouts, featuring the best young talent in Austin, for ESPN Friday Night Fights at the Frank Erwin Center April 27 in support of the live televised main event and co-feature fights.

Two local fighters will collide in a 4-round welterweight bout when Nick Gonzales, 3-2-1 with one knockout, faces off with Cory Yett, 3-3 with one knockout. Surprisingly, the two have never sparred and Gonzales, a part-time mixed martial arts fighter, had not heard of Yett until the fight was proposed. Yett promises that Gonzales will remember him after April 27.

Two other Ausin boxers will clash, with middleweight Daniel Henry making his professional debut against Jawanta Manson, 2-2-2 with one knockout. Manson has not fought in nearly two years, since losing a decision to unbeaten Salvador Roa. Henry has had just eight amateur fights, but trainer Richard Lord says the fighter has advanced enough to test the pro ranks.

Austin’s Clay Herzing, who is 6 feet 10 inches tall and approximately 345 pounds, will make his professional debut against the 6-foot-2-inch and approximately 290-pound Brice Ritani. Herzing has limited amateur experience, but hopes size will matter in this heavyweight battle. Ritani, 2-0 with two knockouts, dabbled in professional mixed martial arts for three years before dedicating himself to boxing full time.

Local boxer Rayford Johnson, 6-7 with three knockouts, will try to even out his record against Michigan’s Mitch Williams, 3-2-1 with three knockouts, in a 4-round cruiserweight match. Williams, who turned professional in 2007 as a 227-pounder, is fighting for the first time as a cruiserweight. He last boxed in January 2010, fighting a 6-round draw. In the time that Williams was off, Johnson had five bouts, winning two of them.

Two visiting Texans will face off in a 4-round junior welterweight match, with John Montes of Laredo, 1-1 with one knockout, meeting Randy Fuentes of Edinburg, 1-0-1.

Tickets are $25, $60, $75 Floor and $100 VIP and are on sale now at all Texas Box Office outlets including select H-E-B stores, Ft. Hood ITR, by phone at (512) 477-6060 or 1-800-982-BEVO (2386) or online at TexasBoxOffice.com. Facility fee and convenience charges may apply. Card is subject to change.All information is subject to change.

Diablo Wants Tarver!

Doesn't Blame Tarver For Ducking Him.

WBC cruiserweight champion Krzysztof "Diablo" Wlodarczyk (46-2, 33 KO) doesn't blame Antonio "Magic Man" Tarver for stepping around him to take an easier fight.

Despite being offered a shot at Wlodarczyk's prestigious belt, Tarver (29-6, 20 KO) will instead face the strong, but limited Lateef Kayode on June 2 at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California.

"I was not surprised by his decision," said Wlodarczyk. "I said to my promoters, Andrew Wasilewski and Leon Margules, that a fight between Tarver and me will never happen. He is an intelligent guy and knows he has a very small chance of surviving 12 rounds with me. He realizes I'm too strong and too hungry for him. It's that simple."

A champion since 2010 with three successful defenses under his belt, Wlodarczyk says he is in a similar position to the one a young Antonio Tarver once found himself.

"I am looking for any of the big names in my division to fight me, kind of like how Antonio used to follow Roy Jones around and accuse him of taking easy fights while avoiding his toughest opponents. The shoe is on the other foot now though. Today, Antonio is an old man, too lazy to make his proper fighting weight, and looking to make money the easiest way possible against the easiest foes. Life is like a circle sometimes. Maybe if I'm between 40 and 50 and still fighting I will someday talk the same bullshit."

Wlodarczyk says he's not angry with Tarver, but offers him the following advice: "Good luck Antonio, but if this is how you are going to be, then forget talking about serious fights for serious titles!"

Nielsen V Vega!

Nielsen Vows To Make Vega Pay For “Slayer Shirt”.

Rising Danish middleweight star Patrick Nielsen (13-0, 7 KOs) has vowed to make Gaston Vega (17-4, 6 KOs) pay for presenting a “disgusting” shirt at Wednesday´s pre-fight press conference. Facing the media in Denmark´s capital Copenhagen, the 28-year-old wore a jersey of the Argentinian national team, with the number 11 and the words “The Nielsen Slayer” on his back. “I am proud to be Argentinian and I will take home the WBA Intercontinental Middleweight Title on Saturday night,” Vega said. “This is a big title. To get it, I will defeat Nielsen in the 11th round. I am wearing this shirt to state my intentions. I will knock him out.”

Nielsen is fired up to get his hands on his opponent. “I don´t think he should be wearing something like that,” Nielsen said. “I find it very inappropriate and disgusting. I can´t wait to get in the ring with him and make him pay. I am in great shape and I will give him a hell of a beating.”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland is expecting a spectacular evening at the Arena Nord in Frederikshavn. “We are moving Patrick Nielsen fast but we believe in him,” he said. “Winning the WBA Intercontinental Middleweight Title at the age of just 21 would be huge. But Vega is a tough opponent. It will be a great fight and I am confident that Patrick will win.”

In the Nordic Fight Night´s co-featured main event, European Super-Middleweight Champion James DeGale (11-1, 8 KOs) defends his title against Christian Sanavia (45-5, 13 KOs), while Andreas Evensen (15-2, 6 KOs) faces Willie “Big Bang” Casey (13-1, 9 KOs) for the WBA International Featherweight Title.

Battle Of The Badges 4!

FDNY V N.E. Law Enforcement.

The nationally-acclaimed New York City Fire Department Boxing Team ("FDNY") squares-off against a squad of New England Law Enforcement ("Team N.E.") amateur boxers, Saturday night, May 19 in "Battle of the Badges 4," at Fox Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut.

"Battle of the Badges 4" ("BOB4") is presented by National Public Safety Athletic League ("NPSAL") in association with the FDNY Boxing Bravest, Mass Corrections Officers Federated Union Boxing Team (MCOFU) and Foxwoods Resort Casino. Defending champion Team N.E. trails FDNY in the series, 2-1.

Proceeds from the May 19th charitable event will benefit Work Vessels For Veterans, NPSAL and FDNY Boxing Bravest Team. More than a dozen matches are scheduled pitting FDNY against Team New England, which is primarily comprised of MCOFU boxers.

"Boston and New York has always had a great sports rivalry and this is our version of the Red Sox vs. Yankees or Pats vs. Jets," BOB4 spokesperson Denis Marrese explained. "It's a friends and family friendly event for some worthy causes. We started out helping veterans and we still do through Work Vessels For Veterans. It's an honor for us to help these young men and women, especially those who've returned home from Afghanistan and Iraq, get started in their businesses. Work Vessels For Veterans is a worldwide organization that's based in Connecticut. Two other great charities - NPSAL and FDNY Boxing Bravest - are also benefiting from Battle of the Badges 4. We're also very fortunate to have Foxwoods Resort Casino in our corner this year as the host venue. Without Foxwoods, as well as our generous sponsors, promoting a major sporting event like this would be impossible."

Tickets, priced at $30.00 (general admission), $50.00 (reserved seating) and $100.00 (VIP/Ringside), are available to purchase at the Foxwoods Box Office, on line at www.foxwoods.com or www.Ticketmaster.com, by calling 1-855-660-6606 04 1-800.200.2882, or at any Ticketmaster outlet.

Doors open at 6:30 PM/ET with the first match scheduled to start at 7:30 PM/ET.

Go to www.BattleoftheBadges.info or www.foxwoods.com for additional information

Stevenson V Gonzalez!

ESPN FNF Main Event.

International Boxing Federation("IBF") No. 2-ranked, dangerous Adonis "Superman" Stevenson (17-1, 14 KOs), is ready to take on the top super middleweights in the world. First, though, the sensational southpaw must get past World Boxing Council ("WBC") No. 2-ranked Noe "El Carbonero" Gonzalez (28-1, 20 KOs) in their much-anticipated unification showdown headlining this week's ESPN Friday Night Fights, live at the famed Bell Centre in Montreal.

Stevenson-Gonzalez is the marquee match-up on a stacked card, which is another installment in the popular Fast and Furious Series, presented in Montreal by Mise-O-Jeu and Videotron.

In addition to future world title fight implications for the winner, the 12-round main evident will be contested for Stevenson's IBF Inter-Continental, North American Boxing Organization ("NABO") and North American Boxing Association ("NABA") super middleweight title belts, as well as Gonzalez' WBC Silver Championship.

"This is a big fight because my goal is to become world champion," Stevenson y said prior to leaving his Kronk Gym training camp in Detroit. "And everybody is going to be watching this fight on ESPN. I don't care who I fight for the world title - (Lucian) Bute, (Andre) Ward or any world champion - but first I need to beat Gonzalez. He's a tough guy, a power puncher like me, and I've been sparring with some top guys to get ready for him. I will use my speed and movement.

"Manny Steward is the best trainer in the world to teach me how to be a world champion. He knows what it takes and is preparing me. He's helped to improve my technique and I've improved in a lot of ways. He is the best trainer in boxing."

Haiti-native Stevenson, fighting out of Quebec, is also ranked No. 7 by the World Boxing Association ("WBA") and World Boxing Organization ("WBO"), and No. 9 by the World Boxing Council ("WBC"). Last February against Jesus Gonzales (27-1), Adonis registered a frightening "Superman"-like Knockout of the Year candidate in the opening round.

"I was happy with that win," Adonis noted, "but I was scared watching his body shaking on the canvas. I didn't want to hurt him. I'm glad that he's okay."

Gonzalez, a native of Uruguay now living in Argentina, is a feared puncher who has won 14 fights in a row, all but one by knockout. He captured the WBC Silver Belt in January, 2011, with a ninth-round technical knockout of Gustavo Magallanes (29-1) in Uruguay. Gonzalez is promoted by Sampson Lewkowicz (president of Sampson Boxing), who also handles Noe's manager, World Super middleweight champion Sergio Martinez (48-2-2, 27 KOs).

"I'm going to win," Stevenson predicted. "I'll box to win and, if the knockout comes, that will be good. Gonzalez is fast and I know he'll be prepared for this fight. I'm going to be ready and prove that I'm ready to fight for the world title."

Unbeaten North American Boxing Organization ("NABO") light heavyweight champion Eleider "Storm" Alvarez (7-0, 5 KOs) takes on upset-minded Rayco "War" Saunders (22-15-2, 9 KOs) in the eight-round ESPN FNF co-feature. Alvarez, rated No. 15 by the WBO, was a 2008 Colombian Olympian now living in Montreal.

Local favorites and rising stars fighting on the undercard include heavyweight Oscar "Kaboom" Rivas (9-0, 6 KOs), another Colombian Olympian living in Montreal, who steps-up in class to face veteran Kendrick "The Apostle" Releford (22-16-2, 10 KOs) in an eight-round bout; super featherweight Baha Laham (8-0, 3 KOs) vs. Leonis Francois (8-6, 2 KOs) in an eight-rounder, a pair of Canadian heavyweights, Eric Barrack (6-0, 5 KOs) vs. Sandy Pembroke (2-4, 1 KO), in a six-round fight; Montreal light heavyweight Schiller Hyppolite (2-0, 1 KO) vs. Martin Desjardins. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

The Officials for the Stevenson/Gonzalez Unification are:

Supervisor: Mike George, Rhode Island, USA

Referee: Michel Albert Griffin, Canada

Judges: Jack Woodburn, Canada

Claude Paquette, Canada

Richard Flaherty, Massachusetts, USA

GYM's Fast and Furious is an innovative and unique series, featuring seats close to the action, staged at the Bell Centre. These exciting events are also available for PPV via Canal Indigo, Bell TV and Shaw TV.

Tickets, starting at $60.00, are on sale and available to purchase at the Bell Centre box office, or at GYM evenko.ca (383.0666).

STAR BOXING!

BUSY MAY FOR BUSY STAR BOXING.

Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing is readying for a very busy sixteen-day period in May, as they will present three world-class boxing events at the Times Union Center in Albany, New York, Russo's On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York and the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut.

"Our team is very busy this month prepping for these three events. We're very honored to return as at all three venues the fans have been extremely supportive of our past shows," said DeGuardia.

"We had a similar and successful run within a fourteen day span at the end of January and beginning of February of this year with shows at The Paramount on Long Island, the Times Union Center and at the Mohegan Sun Casino."

Kicking off their May events, Star Boxing will host their third VIP BOXING event on Wednesday, May 2nd at Russo's On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York. Headlining VIP BOXING III is a heavyweight clash between popular heavyweight contender Vinny Maddalone and Ohio veteran Chris Koval.

Just three nights later on Saturday, May 5th, Star Boxing will host a CINCO DE MAYO celebration at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut. Along with a sensational LIVE card featuring undefeated and world ranked junior middleweight Demetrius Andrade, fight fans will view the LIVE broadcast of the highly anticipated Floyd Mayweather/Miguel Cotto showdown from Las Vegas.

Rounding out their busy month, Star Boxing will return to the Times Union Center in Albany, New York, on Friday, May 18th for ESPN2's Friday Night Fights headlined by a fantastic junior welterweight clash between undefeated prospects; Philadelphia's Ray "Tito" Serrano and Karim "Hard Hitta" Mayfield of San Francisco, California.

Advance tickets for each event may be purchased by calling the Star Boxing Office at 718-823-2000 or by visiting their website at www.StarBoxing.com

TAYLOR V TRUAX!

UNDERCARD ANNOUNCED.

This Friday night, in a special edition of ShoBox: The New Generation on SHOWTIME®, former undisputed 160-pound world champion Jermain Taylor (29-4-1, 18 KO's) meets the undefeated Caleb "Golden" Truax (18-0-1, 10 KO's) in the 10-round main event. The 10-round co-feature will pit former Cuban amateur standout Erislandy Lara (15-1-1, 10 KO's) against Ronald Hearns (26-2, 20 KO's). Both bouts will be shown live this Friday, April 20, on SHOWTIME (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi, Miss. The card is promoted by DiBella Entertainment (DBE) in association with Golden Boy Promotions.

Seeing action on the untelevised portion of the undercard will be three of DBE's top up-and-coming prospects, J'Leon Love (10-0, 6KO's), Kelvin Price (12-0, 6KO's) and Steven Martinez (11-1, 9KO's).

The Detroit-native Love, who now lives and trains in the boxing hotbed of Las Vegas, NV, is looking to keep his unbeaten record intact when he takes on Ibahiem King (10-6, 4KO's) in the middleweight's first scheduled eight-rounder. Love has gained invaluable experience within in the last year, first serving as one of the main sparring partners for Antonio Margarito during Margarito's preparation for his rematch with Miguel Cotto this past December, and is now currently in camp with pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather, as Mayweather prepares for his upcoming May 5 fight against Cotto. This will be Love's second fight of 2012. In his most recent outing, Love won a convincing six-round unanimous decision over Elie Augustama on January 6.

Price got a very late start into the sport of boxing, and had only one amateur fight before turning pro in 2007. What Price lacked in experience though, he made up for in athletic ability and size. Standing at 6'7" and weighing in usually around 235-plus pounds, Price was a standout basketball player and track star growing up. After playing his college ball at UNC-Charlotte, Price spent some time playing professional basketball overseas, before coming back to the States and falling in love with the sport of boxing. Price's biggest win as a professional came in 2010 when he decisioned fellow undefeated prospect, Tor Hamer. Price is scheduled to take on Aaron Lyons (12-11-1, 9KO's) in his first scheduled 10-round contest.

Rounding out the five-bout card will be the exciting junior middleweight Martinez. Martinez, a three-time NY Golden Gloves winner and 2008 National Golden Gloves Champion is looking to rebound from his first career loss, a close majority decision to fellow prospect Denis Douglin on ESPN's Friday Night Fights earlier this year when he takes on Marcus Thompkins (5-6-1, 2KO's) in a six-round junior middleweight matchup.

The special edition of ShoBox: The New Generation is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Golden Boy Promotions. The main event features former undisputed middleweight champion Jermain "Bad Intentions" Taylor (29-4-1, 18 KO's) taking on the undefeated Caleb "Golden" Truax (18-0-1, 10 KO's) in a 10-round middleweight matchup. In the co-featured bout of the evening, former Cuban amateur star Erislandy Lara (15-1-1, 10 KO's) takes on Ronald Hearns (26-2, 20 KO's) in a fight originally scheduled for February 11 as the co-feature to Victor Ortiz vs. Andre Berto II, but that was rescheduled after a Berto injury caused a postponement of the event. SHOWTIME® will begin live coverage starting at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

Tickets, priced at $150, $100, and $50 plus tax and service charges, are available online at www.beaurivage.com, by phone at (888) 566-7469, or in person at the Beau Rivage Theatre box office. Beau Rivage room reservations can be made by calling (888) 567-6667 or visiting www.beaurivage.com.

Derry Mathews!

DERRY: I’LL TAKE CROLLA INTO THE UNKNOWN.

DERRY MATHEWS has delivered a chilling warning to British lightweight champion Anthony Crolla (23-2).

The Liverpool man (29-6-1) challenges for ‘Million Dollar’ Crolla’s cherished Lonsdale belt at Oldham Sports Centre on Saturday night (April 21).

He warned: “Anthony has never been cut, been floored and got up to win.

“He is like John Murray. He comes forward, is very brave but never been hit and that is what I am going to put to him.

“I am going to take him to places he has never been before.”

Mathews, 28, also insists he has not been troubled by a nose injury that has handicapped him in recent fights.

He challenged Gavin Rees for the European crown last October, but the fight ended in a technical draw because of unlucky Derry’s broken nose.

Cut also played a part in a setback against unbeaten Italian Ermano Marsili in January.

Mathews added: I have had excellent sparring with Alex Arthur and Steve Williams. I have done over 40 rounds and my nose has held up.

“I have had it checked by a surgeon and everything is all right.”

Other Contests: Matty Askin v Jon Lewis Dickinson (10x3 vacant English cruiserweight championship and British title eliminator), Stephen Foster Jr v Jose Antonio Elizabeth (6x3 super-featherweight), Jazza Dickins v Yuri Voronin (6x3 super-bantamweight), Lucas Browne v Paul Butlin (6x3 heavyweight), Adam Little v Chris Jenkinson (6x3 welterweight), Tommy Stubbs v Gavin Reid (4x3 bantamweight), Ryan Doyle v Selected Opponent (4x3 featherweight).

Boxing starts at 6.15pm and tickets are on sale. They are priced at £35 general admission, £55 floor seating, £75 ringside and £100 VIP Ringside. You can buy by calling the Hatton Box Office 01925 755 222, Ticketmaster 0844 847 2500, Ticketline 0844 888 9991, any boxer on the bill or online www.hattonboxing.com

FERNANDO GUERRERO INJURED!

SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION.

Dominican southpaw Fernando Guerrero (23-1, 18 KO's) of Salisbury, Md., suffered a partially torn left biceps in training camp, forcing him to withdraw from his upcoming fight against Chris "The Irish Ghost'' Fitzpatrick. The previously announced 10-round super middleweight fight between Guerrero and Fitzpatrick was tabbed to open a three-fight edition of ShoBox: The New Generation this Friday, April 20. SHOWTIME® will move ahead with a live doubleheader (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi, Miss.

The main event will feature former undisputed 160-pound World Champion Jermain Taylor (29-4-1, 18 KO's) facing undefeated Caleb "Golden" Truax (18-0-1, 10 KO's) in a 10-round middleweight bout. In the 10-round junior middleweight co-feature, former Cuban amateur standout Erislandy Lara (15-1-1, 10 KO's) takes on former world title challenger Ronald Hearns (26-2, 20 KO's).

The special edition of ShoBox: The New Generation is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Golden Boy Promotions. The main event features former undisputed middleweight champion Jermain "Bad Intentions" Taylor (29-4-1, 18 KO's) taking on the undefeated Caleb "Golden" Truax (18-0-1, 10 KO's) in a 10-round middleweight matchup. In the co-featured bout of the evening, former Cuban amateur star Erislandy Lara (15-1-1, 10 KO's) takes on Ronald Hearns (26-2, 20 KO's) in a fight originally scheduled for February 11 as the co-feature to Victor Ortiz vs. Andre Berto II, but that was rescheduled after a Berto injury caused a postponement of the event. SHOWTIME® will begin live coverage starting at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

Tickets, priced at $150, $100, and $50 plus tax and service charges, are available online at www.beaurivage.com, by phone at (888) 566-7469, or in person at the Beau Rivage Theatre box office. Beau Rivage room reservations can be made by calling (888) 567-6667 or visiting www.beaurivage.com

For information on SHOWTIME Sports, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, complete telecast information and more, please visit the website athttp://sports.SHO.com.

Anthony Crolla!

CROLLA WANTS LONSDALE BELT BEFORE WORLD GLORY.

ANTHONY CROLLA has targeted winning a Lonsdale belt outright before becoming world lightweight champion.

The popular Mancunian makes the second defence of his British crown against Derry Mathews (29-6-1) at Oldham Sports Centre on Saturday night (April 21).

If Crolla (23-2) beats his Liverpool rival he’ll be just one notch away from claiming a Lonsdale belt for keeps.

Hatton Promotions star Crolla, 25, said: “The Lonsdale belt is my absolute pride and joy. It means the world to me and my family are so proud of it.

“To have one for keeps on the mantel piece means the world to me. I always said when I came into boxing it was my ambition to win a Lonsdale belt.

“I boxed on an amateur show when I was a kid and saw one. Ever since those it has been a target.”

Crolla knows the world title scene is wide open. The WBA belt is vacant and Scot Ricky Burns is among the other champions.

Anthony added: “I am not distracted by talk of world title fights because the fight I am preparing for is the most important.

“If the next one goes wrong against Mathews talk of European and world title fights down the line go out of the window.”

Other Contests: Jon Lewis Dickinson v Matty Askin (10x3 cruiserweight), Stephen Foster Jr v Jose Antonio Elizabeth (6x3 super-featherweight), Jazza Dickins v Yuri Voronin (6x3 super-bantamweight), Lucas Brown v Paul Butlin (6 rounds heavyweight), Adam Little v Chris Jenkinson (6x3 welterweight), Tommy Stubbs v Gavin Reid (4x3 bantamweight), Ryan Doyle v Selected Opponent (4x3 featherweight).

Boxing starts at 6.15pm and tickets are on sale. They are priced at £35 general admission, £55 floor seating, £75 ringside and £100 VIP Ringside. You can buy by calling the Hatton Box Office 01925 755 222, Ticketmaster 0844 847 2500, Ticketline 0844 888 9991, any boxer on the bill or online www.hattonboxing.com

HERNANDEZ TRIUMPHS OVER LOPEZ!

DANIEL "EL TRAVIESO" HERNANDEZ.

This past Friday, April 13, marked the return of a warrior. Daniel "El Travieso" Hernandez made his long-awaited comeback to the ring and fought a four round bout that went the distance against Mexico's Jose "Tyson" Lopez and won a split decision.

Hernandez, who had been inactive in the ring due to a 2010 gun shot incident fought for the first time and the fight was scored 38-39, 39-38 and 39-38. Thompson Boxing Promotions congratulates Daniel Hernandez on a hard earned win and welcomes him back to the sport he loves!

Stated Hernandez, "It felt good to be back in the ring and compete in an arena. I missed everything about it and I want everyone to know that I am back and will continue to work hard to regain the wasted time."

ORTIZ V BERTO II!

HUMBERTO SOTO VS. LUCAS MATTHYSSE IN CO-MAIN EVENT.

At long last, the rematch of 2011's Fight of the Year between former World Champions "Vicious" Victor Ortiz and Andre Berto originally scheduled for February 11 in Las Vegas, but postponed when Berto sustained an arm injury on January 30, has been rescheduled for Saturday, June 23 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, this time for the vacant WBC Silver Welterweight Championship. In the co-main event, scheduled for 12 rounds in the super lightweight division, former Three Division World Champion Humberto Soto squares off against Argentine knockout artist Lucas Matthysse. The doubleheader will be telecast live on SHOWTIME.

As agreed to when the fight was scheduled for February, both fighters will be subject to Olympic style drug testing which will be administered by the Volunteer Anti-Doping Association (VADA) and will include random blood and urine tests.

"I will not underestimate Andre Berto because of his injury," said Ortiz. "I hope and expect a new and improved Andre Berto. I am training for the greatest Andre Berto ever. I want to give the fans the best fight because that's what they expect from both of us. I am going to be World Champ again, there is no doubt about that. There is only one option for me...victory!"

"The arm is feeling great and I'm ready to get in there and handle some unfinished business on June 23," said Berto. "This is guaranteed to be an explosive fight that you don't want to miss. Los Angeles has become a second home to me, so I'm excited to perform for all the fans at STAPLES Center this summer."

"It's been a long wait since February, but I'm glad that we're finally going to see this rematch between two of boxing's top young stars," said Oscar de la Hoya, President of Golden Boy Promotions. "Ortiz and Berto went to war the first time and I'm expecting the same scenario to play out this time. These boxers only know one way to fight and that's moving forward, which means we're in for another great battle."

"Berto-Ortiz I was a 'Fight of the Year' candidate and boxing fans can expect more of the same in this fight," said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. "It was unfortunate that Andre suffered the injury and the rematch had to be postponed, but we are happy that we were able to reschedule this much anticipated fight and are looking forward to another great night on June 23."

"Ortiz vs. Berto II: The Rematch," is the highly anticipated 12-round welterweight rematch of USA Today and Ring Magazine's 2011 Fight of the Year between former World Champions "Vicious" Victor Ortiz and Andre Berto for the vacant WBC Silver Welterweight Championship which will take place Saturday, June 23 at at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, Calif. The event is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and DiBella Entertainment and sponsored by Corona, DeWalt Tools and AT&T. The co-feature will see former Three-Division World Champion Humberto "Zorrita" Sotobattle Argentinean knockout artist Lucas Matthysse in a 12-round super lightweight fight presented in association with Baja Boxing Promotions and Arano Box Promotions. The double-header will be telecast live on SHOWTIME Championship Boxing at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

Tickets, priced at $250, $150, $100 and $50, are available for purchase online at www.staplescenter.com and www.ticketmaster.com or via Ticketmaster charge-by-phone lines at (800) 745-3000. Tickets will also be available at STAPLES Center box office beginning Tuesday, April 17.

Everyone anticipated an action-packed fight the first time that Victor Ortiz and Andre Berto stepped into the ring back on April 16, 2011 with the WBC Welterweight World Championship on the line. What ensued was nothing less than spectacular as the pair stormed out of the gate, setting a fast pace that would continue for the entire 12-round contest. Midway through the first round, Ortiz staggered Berto with a sneaky right hand, then backed him into a corner and followed up with a barrage of punches which forced the defending champion to take a knee in order to recover. Berto wasted little time returning the favor, sending Ortiz to the canvas with a counter right hand at the end of the second round. The exciting battle continued round after round, and in the sixth frame, Berto landed a right hand that dropped Ortiz. As soon as the action resumed, Berto was all over Ortiz, looking to close the show. With Ortiz trapped against the ropes and Berto throwing caution to the wind, Ortiz threw a left hook that caught Berto flush on the chin, dropping him for the second time in the fight just seconds before the bell. The back-and-forth action continued for the second half of the "Fight of the Year" candidate. In the end, Ortiz had captured the title with a hard-fought unanimous decision victory, winning by scores of 115-110, 114-111 and 114-112.

The star of Victor Ortiz (29-3-2, 22 KO's) has been on the rise for the last few years, but in 2011, the native of Garden City, Kansas finally put everything together for the entire world to see. The owner of wins over Mike Arnaoutis, Nate Campbell and Antonio Diaz, Ortiz stepped it up in April 2011 with a 12-round decision win over Berto that captivated the boxing world and earned him the WBC Welterweight Championship. Five months later, Ortiz lost a controversial bout to pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather, but with his rematch against Berto looming, the 25-year old now has the perfect opportunity to get back to the top of the division.

A member of the 2004 Haitian Olympic team, Andre Berto (28-1, 22 KO's), like Ortiz, has been leading the charge of boxing's next generation, thrilling fans with exciting fights and blistering knockouts. Crowned a world champion in 2008, the 28-year-old Berto successfully defended his WBC crown five times against the likes of Luis Collazo, Steve Forbes and Juan Urango before losing it to Ortiz in April. In September, Berto put gold around his waist once again by stopping Jan Zaveck in five rounds for the IBF title. He would soon vacate the title in order to take the fight he has been clamoring for since April and now he's looking forward to evening the score with Ortiz on June 23.

A lanky boxer-puncher with frightening accuracy and a busy attack in the ring, Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico native Humberto "La Zorrita" Soto (58-7-2, 34 KO's) has been a World Champion at featherweight, super featherweight and lightweight, making eight total defenses of his crowns against the likes of Oscar Leon, Francisco Lorenzo and Urbano Antillon. Unbeaten since 2008, Soto went 4-0 in 2011, defeating Fidel Munoz, Motoki Sasaki, Jose Alfaro and Adailton De Jesus, firmly establishing himself in his new division at 140 pounds with the 31-year-old being ranked number two in the world by the WBC and number three by the WBA. In his most recent bout on April 7, Soto decisioned Claudinei Lacerda and now looks to stay busy by facing another competitor in the always-tough Matthysse.

Currently ranked fifth in the world by the WBC, sixth by the WBO and seventh by the WBA, Trelew, Argentina's Lucas Matthysse (30-2, 28 KO's) is a ferocious puncher with concussive knockout power in both hands, instantly making him a fan favorite wherever he steps between the ropes. Despite having scored knockouts in his last six victories, fans may best remember the 29-year-old for his 2010 and 2011 bouts with former World Champions Zab "Super" Judah and Devon Alexander "The Great", respectively. In both bouts, the aggressive Matthysse dropped and hurt his foes, only to lose controversial split decisions that the boxing community met with outrage. Undeterred, Matthysse has kept his eyes on the prize, promising to never leave matters in the judges' hands ever again.

ALVARADO V HERRERA!

FIGHT OF THE YEAR CONTENDER.

This past Saturday Mauricio Herrera (18-2, 7 KOs) and Mike Alvarado engaged in a back and forth battle that qualified as a legitimate Fight of the Year contender. As soon as the bell sounded in the first round both warriors began exchanging and didn't stop until the final bell.

The persistent Alvarado (33-0, 23 KOs) won by unanimous decision with scores of 99-91, 97-93, 96-94. The consistently active Herrera withstood Alvarado's power shots and responded with combinations. In the end, Herrera's valiant attempt could not ward off Alvarado, however, his determined, heartful performance receive a standing ovation from the fight fans in attendance and a nod from the HBO.

Mauricio Herrera stated, "I gave the fans what they came to see. I stood toe to toe with the big guy and I lost a close fight. The 9-1 score discredits my performance. There is no way in hell I only got one round. I am not disappointed because the crowd lifted me up during and after the fight. I told everyone I was going for broke and I did my best. Congrats to Alvarado, he is a gutsy guy."

Added, Alex Camponovo, general manager and matchmaker of Thompson Boxing Promotions, "Mauricio and Mike put on a great show, it really was the main event of the evening. Alvarado was the better man tonight but I believe that it was closer than the 99-91 score card by one of the judges. Mauricio is a true warrior and we are proud of him!"

Herrera will now take a well deserved rest and go back to the gym this summer.

Stevenson V Gonzalez!

Alvarez Battles Saunders.

Rising light heavyweight star Eleider "Storm" Alvarez takes on battled-tested veteran Rayco "War" Saunders in this week's ESPN Friday Night Fights co-feature at the famed Bell Centre in Montreal.

International Boxing Federation("IBF") No. 2-ranked Adonis "Superman" Stevenson (17-1, 14 KOs) headlines another installment of the popular Fast and Furious Series, presented in Montreal by Mise-O-Jeu and Videotron, in a 10-round unification bout withWorld Boxing Council ("WBC") No. 2-ranked Noe "El Carbonero" Gonzalez (28-1, 20 KOs).

Alvarez (7-0, 5 KOs), a 2008 Colombian Olympian who now lives in Montreal, is the undefeated North American Boxing Organization ("NABO") champion on a fast track to stardom. He captured the NABO title in his seventh pro fight, knocking out Emiliano Cavetano (21-3) in the opening round last December, and Eleider is already ranked No. 15 by the World Boxing Organization ("WBO").

"Storm" faces Saunders (22-15-2, 9 KOs), who has been stopped only once in his pro career, in an eight-round, non-title fight. Saunders has defeated world-title challenger Tommy Karpency and fought three-time world title challenger Danny Santiago to a draw. World-class fighters such as Ismayl Sillakh, Edison Miranda, Marcus Oliveira and Chris Henry have been unable to stop the crafty boxer from Pittsburgh.

Another Colombian Olympian also living in Montreal, unbeaten heavyweight prospect Oscar "Kaboom" Rivas (9-0, 6 KOs), meets veteran Kendrick "The Apostle" Releford (22-16-2, 10 KOs) in an eight-round bout.

"In addition to a legitimate Fight of the Year candidate in Stevenson-Gonzalez," promoter Yvon Michel (GYM) commented, "boxing fans at Bell Centre and those watching on ESPN will see two top prospects in Alvarez and Rivas. They both have unlimited potential but this Friday evening will each face the stiffest tests of their young careers."

Also fighting on the undercard is super featherweight Baha Laham (8-0, 3 KOs) vs. Leonis Francois (8-6, 2 KOs) in an eight-round bout, heavyweight Eric Barrack (6-0, 5 KOs) vs. Sandy Pembroke (2-4, 1 KO) in a six-round match, and Montreal light heavyweight Schiller Hyppolite (2-0, 1 KO) vs. Martin Desjardins. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

The Officials for the Stevenson/Gonzalez Unification are:

Supervisor: Mike George, Rhode Island, USA

Referee: Michel Albert Griffin, Canada

Judges: Jack Woodburn, Canada

Claude Paquette, Canada

Richard Flaherty, Massachusetts, USA

GYM's Fast and Furious is an innovative and unique series, featuring seats close to the action, staged at the Bell Centre. These exciting events are also available for PPV via Canal Indigo, Bell TV and Shaw TV.

Tickets, starting at $60.00, are on sale and available to purchase at the Bell Centre box office, or at GYM evenko.ca (383.0666).

GOOSSEN TUTOR!

WEBSITE MAKEOVER.

A simple click on the Goossen Tutor website above will welcome you to the new home for your every need regarding the Goossen Tutor fighters, fight videos, interviews and promotional activities. The remodeled site boasts a sleek, up to date design that will be enjoyable, informative, entertaining and easy to navigate.

Goossen Tutor plans to maintain a current and engaging web presence for its fans and members with the new site by integrating Facebook, YouTube and Twitter updates, along with streaming selected press conferences, weigh-ins, and undercard fights live.

In addition, a customer membership and mailing list will be developed especially for our fans that will provide special advance ticket sales and seating, event contests, free gift giveaways and other fighter and event privileges on a regular basis strictly for Goossen Tutor members.

Goossen Tutor, will also increase its presence in the Twitter community and intends on supplying its followers with up-to-date information on what is going on behind the scenes, the latest scoop on your favorite Goossen Tutor fighters, and anything else that happens in-and-out of the ring.

ARTEMIO "KING" REYES!

PROMISES TO COME BACK STRONGER THAN EVER.

Friday night was the completion of two very difficult weeks for Thompson Boxing's WBC Latino Welterweight Champion Artemio "King" Reyes (15-2, 12 KOs) who lost his father last week and laid him to rest Tuesday this week only to forge forward and face Alan "El Puas" Sanchez (10-2-1, 4 KOs) on ESPN's "Friday Night Fights."

Reyes suffered a knockout loss 2:08 into the first round. The disillusioned Reyes had this to say,

"I didn't get the victory and I'm sorry to disappoint. I'd would have liked to at least have the chance to beat the 10 count, maybe the stoppage was a bit premature. Thanks to everyone who showed me support. I promise to come back stronger than ever!"

Sanchez, who avenged a previous loss to Artemio "The King" Reyes, was excited about the win and open to the suggestion when asked of the possibility of a rubber match.

TICKET ALERT!

Tickets For Shootout At Texas Station On Sale 10 AM Today.

Tickets go on sale today (Saturday, April 14 at 10 AM) for "Shootout at Texas Station", the Friday, May 11, ShoBox: The New Generation-televised night of professional boxing in the Dallas Events Center at the Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel in Las Vegas.

"Shootout at Texas Station" will be presented by Warriors Boxing and features Cuba's Yudel Jhonson (12-0, 8 KOs) taking on Freddy "The Rail" Hernandez (30-2, 20 KOs) from Mexico in the 10-round light middleweight main event.

Also that night, Cuban super featherweight prospect Rances "Kid Blast" Barthelemy (15-0, 11 KOs) will face Mexico's Aalan Martinez (12-1-1, 8 KOs) in the eight-round televised opener, and Colombia's undefeated Alexander Brand (17-0, 15 KOs) takes on Sweden's undefeated Badou Jack "The Ripper" (10-0, 8 Kos) in the eight-round, televised super middleweight co-main event, where someone's "0" must go.

More exciting undercard bouts will be announced shortly.

Tickets for "Shootout at Texas Station" will be priced at $25 and $50 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster, any Texas Station rewards center or at SCLV.COM/CONCERTS.

A few VIP seats are available at a price of $102. Please call (954) 985-1155.

On fight night, doors open at 6:30 and the action starts at 7:00 pm.

Station Bucks may be used to purchase tickets. All ages welcome. Under 21 must be accompanied by an adult 21 or over. Show subject to change without notice. Management reserves all rights. Digital Photography and video prohibited. Tickets can be purchased at any Station Casinos Boarding Pass Rewards Center, The Fiesta's, by logging onto stationcasinos.com/concerts or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel is located at 2101 Texas Star Ln in North Las Vegas. Telephone: (702) 631-1000 or (800) 654-8888.

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS!

MAURICIO HERRERA & MIKE ALVARADO.

Tomorrow, Saturday, April 14, from the Mandalay Casino in Las Vegas a junior welterweight collision will erupt between Mauricio Herrera and Mike Alvarado LIVE on HBO Pay-Per-View, beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. (SRP $44.95) as part of the telecast that will feature Juan Manuel Marquez versus Sergey Fedchenko for the interim WBO Jr. welterweight championship, and Brandon Rios versus Richard Abril for the interim WBA lightweight championship.

Earlier today, both fighters attended the official weigh in and both fighters weighed in at an even 140 lbs.

The Mike Alvarado vs. Mauricio Herrera bout is promoted by Top Rank in association with Thompson Boxing Promotions. The Marquez/Rios world championship event is promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zanfer Promotions, Tecate and AT&T, remaining tickets priced at $250, $150, $100, $50 and $25, not including applicable service charges, are available at all Ticketmaster locations (select Smith's Food and Drug Centers and Ritmo Latino). To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Mandalay Bay at (877) 632-7400 or Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.mandalaybay.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

Arizona's Best Professional Boxing!

Next Show April 21st, 2012.

Arizona’s top pro-boxing promotion company, Iron Boy Promotions, brings to Phoenix, Night of Legends II at the Celebrity Theatre on Saturday April 21st, 2012. Iron Boy’s last show in February brought over 2,300 excited fans to the Celebrity Theatre, creating a rare environment that soon rippled through the sports world. The theatre’s manager stated, “We have not seen a boxing show of this caliber since 2000, nobody has been able to put together this many fans without losing focus on quality, amazing job.”

Similar to the last show, there will be 8 professional bouts and 2 amateur bouts. The main event will feature the exciting prospect, Abel Ramos. Other big names are Don Moore, Thomas Valdez, Emilio “Milo Time” Garcia, and amateur stars David Benavidez and Panchito C’de Vaca.

Also present will be boxing legends Roger Mayweather (uncle and trainer to Floyd Mayweather and a WBA, WBC, IBO and USBA ex-world champion) and Michael Carbajal (WBO, WBC and IBF ex-world champion). Roger actively trains 3 of the show’s fighters in Las Vegas and is making his second trip to an Iron Boy Promotions event. With prominent boxing legends, over 2,500 excited fans and a bout card full of high-powered talent, this event is of great interest to the Southwest’s sports world. Don’t miss out!

Showtime: Theatre doors open at 6:00 pm; first fight is at 7:00 pm.

Ticket Information: http://celebritytheatre.ticketforce.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=1299

SERGIO MARTINEZ!

TO APPEAR AS SPECIAL GUEST ON ESPN DEPORTES.

Tonight, the universally recognized Middleweight Champion of the world, Sergio "Maravilla" Martinez will be the special guest on ESPN Deportes' Viernes de Combates (the domestic Spanish version of Friday Night Fights). Martinez, who will arrive at the ESPN studios this afternoon to partake in a number of media activities prior to the Friday Night Fights telecast, will be bringing his own special guest along to accompany him, Monique McClain.

For those who don't already know, Monique is the young teenage girl who Sergio befriended before his title fight against Serhiy Dzinziruk last March at Foxwoods in Connecticut. Monique was being so badly bullied by her classmates that her family took her out of school. Upon learning of Monique's situation, Martinez, who is an outspoken advocate and avid supporter of ending violence against women and children, invited Monique and her family to spend some time with him prior to his title fight and to be his special guest at the fight. The relationship between Martinez and Monique has continued to grow over the last year, with Monique spending time at that champion's training camp in Oxnard during the preparation for his October 2011 middleweight title defense of Darren Barker as well as being ringside for each of Martinez' last three title defenses. (Editors Note: A few months ago, Monique re-entered school and is doing better than ever.)

"Being a world champion, and being in the position I am in, one of the most important things I can do in my life is to bring awareness to society what a serious situation this is (Domestic Violence and Bullying). I am very exicted to be on ESPN Deportes, and have the opportunity to speak out about these causes to such a large audience," said Martinez.

"I am very proud to be part of Sergio Martinez's campaign and be able to collaborate with him on his mission to end violence against the un-defensible. Sergio continues to show that he is not only a great champion inside the ring but outside as well," said long-time advisor Sampson Lewkowicz.

"We are thrilled that Sergio will be a guest on Viernes de Combates, the domestic Spanish version of the Friday Night Fights series, and even happier that he will get an opportunity to champion his causes of anti-bullying and anti-domestic violence. It will also be great for the domestic and international boxing viewers to meet Monique and learn what kind of champion Sergio is outside of the ring," said promoter Lou DiBella.

It was a busy couple of days for Martinez. Just yesterday, Martinez participated in "The Y Factor - Men Leading by Example", a national summit in San Francisco that honors men working to end violence against women and children. Other special guests at the summit included baseball legends Willie Mays and Joe Torre, Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi, Department of Justice Acting Associate Attorney General Tony West, Thomas Goetz, the Executive Editor of WIRED Magazine, and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Joel Brinkley.

Below is a list of just some of the causes and/or organizations that Martinez is an advocate and supporter of:

WBC Word Boxing Cares: World Champions Against Bullying

New York City Councilwoman Julissa Ferrers, who chairs the committee on Women's Issues and representatives from the Dominican Women's Development Center and the Violence Intervention Program

Federal legislation: The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

Senchenko V Malignaggi!

Freddie Roach Predicts Senchenko's Faster Jab The Difference vs. Malignaggi.

Five-time Trainer of the Year Freddie Roach predicts the jab of World Boxing Association ("WBA") Welterweight Champion Vyacheslav Senchenko will be the difference in hisApril 29 world title defense against challenger Paulie "Magic Man" Malignaggi, airing live on pay per viewfrom Donboss Arena in Donetsk, Ukraine.

Undefeated Senchenko (32-0, 21 KOs), rated No. 5 in the world by The Ring Magazine, has been training at Roach's famed Wild Card Gym in Hollywood, California. The 2000 Ukraine Olympian captured the WBA title in 2009, winning a 12-round decision from previously undefeated Yuriy Nuzhnenko, and Vyacheslav has successfully defended his world title belt three times: Motoki Sasaki (DEC12), Charlie Jose Navarro (DEC12) and more recently Marco Antonio Avendano (TKO6) last August in his last fight.

"Senchenko is a very, very good boxer with good technique," Roach recently said from the Wild Card Gym. "He has good height and a good punch. He had a great amateur background. The Ukraine has the No. 1 program in the world this year. It has a very good program and Senchenko is very well schooled. His jab is his best weapon and I think that will be the difference in this fight. He has a faster jab than Malignaggi and it should control the fight.

"I think Senchenko's boxing ability will enable him to out-score Paulie to win a decision. Paulie is very game. He'll bring the fight and make it exciting. Going to the Ukraine is not like going into hostile territory. The promoter (Yuri Ruban, Union Boxing) over there is very fair. One time I had a fighter from there - I thought he won - but he lost a decision at home. There will be neutral judges and the winner will be the real winner."

Senchenko vs. Malignaggi," presented by Union Boxing Promotion, is being distributed in the United States by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 1:00 PM/ET - 10:00 AM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, DISH Network and Avail-TVNfor a suggested retail price of only $29.95.

The brash Malignaggi (30-4, 6 KOs)a former International Boxing Federation ("IBF") junior welterweight champion, is unbeaten since moving up to welterweight with impressive wins against Michael Lozada (TKO6), Jose Miguel Cotto (DEC10) and Orlando Lora (DEC10).

"Paulie has a lot of heart," Roach noted. "He always tries to win and gives 100 percent. He came to my gym after he lost to Amir Khan - my fighter - but I didn't have time to work with him. One of my best trainers, Eric Brown, is training Paulie. It wouldn't have been fair for me to watch Paulie train here to a fight a guy I train. A decision was made by all of is that it would be better if Paulie didn't train here. Paulie's getting ready for this fight at home (New York City but he recently shifted training camp to Milan, Italy). There were no bad words or feelings. Paulie's a nice kid. He speaks his mind and I like people like that."

Training a fighter for an opponent trained by one of his assistant trainers, like it is for Roach against the Browned-trained Malignaggi, is something that just happens every once in a while. "It's a little unusual but it does happen," Freddie concluded. "I may have a similar situation of (Julio Cesar) Chavez (Jr.) fights Vanes (Martirosyan). I train and like both of them. It's not fair.....maybe I'll stay at home. There's been talk of Amir fighting Manny (Pacquiao) someday. I don't think it'll happen; they respect each other so much, but business is business."

Go online to www.integratedsportsnet.com for additional information. Follow Integrated Sports Media on Twitter @IntegratedPPV.

Martin Murray!

MURRAY BACK AFTER CHAVEZ DREAM DASHED.

MARTIN MURRAY will return to action on Hatton Promotions massive ‘Road To Glory’ bill at Manchester Velodrome on Saturday June 16.

The British, Commonwealth and WBA inter-continental middleweight champion will be in title action on the card, with his opponent to be named in the next two weeks.

Besides the vacant WBA interim super-bantamweight title clash between Scott Quigg and Rendall Munroe it is a big night for Hatton Promotions with Murray in a big contest.

Murray had hoped to challenge WBC champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr in Texas on the same date, but visa issues prevented him from travelling to the US.

Back in December, the unbeaten St Helens fighter travelled to Germany and held WBA Super champion Felix Sturm to a draw.

British and Commonwealth champion Murray, 29, is ranked at number three by the WBA and Hatton Promotions CEO Ricky Hatton believes a ‘Road To Glory’ win will land his man the mandatory position.

Hatton said: “If Martin comes through I hope he will become the official challenger and earn a rematch with Sturm or their regular champion Gennady Golovkin.

“It was a terrible blow that he couldn’t get his paperwork cleared in time for the Chavez Jr fight, but he is back in the gym and looking forward to his next contest.”

“After his magnificent performance against Sturm, Martin deserves another world title challenge and I will make sure it happens.”

Murray (23-0-1) added: “I can’t wait to get in there and use what I learned against Sturm. I’m still developing into my prime and I’m looking forward to the future.”

Also in title action on the bill, Sheffield’s Ryan Rhodes meets unbeaten Belarussian Sergey Rabchenko for the vacant European light-middleweight crown.

Rhodes’s fellow steel city boxer Richard Towers bids for his first title against German Michael Wallisch for the vacant EEU heavyweight crown.

There will be a talent stacked undercard that will include unbeaten hopefuls Adam Etches (7-0), Scott Jenkins (4-0), Ryan Doyle (1-0), Jimmy Kelly (1-0).

Ticket prices are now on sale priced £125 (VIP Inner Ringside + exclusive cash bar), £100 Ringside, £55, £35 and £30. You can purchase tickets by calling Hatton Promotions hotline 01925 755 222/www.ticketmaster.co.uk/0844 847 2500/www.ticketline.co.uk/0844 888 4402/www.hmv.com

Stephen Foster Jr!

FOSTER JR IN TITLE WARM UP.

STEPHEN FOSTER JR will tackle Jose Antonio Elizabeth before attempting to win the British super-featherweight title.

Foster Jr, 32, meets the Nicaraguan over six rounds on the bill topped by Anthony Crolla’s British lightweight title defence against Derry Mathews at Oldham Sports Centre on Saturday April 21.

Provided Salford’s former European champion wins, Hatton Promotions hope to match him against domestic king Gary Buckland this summer.

Hatton Promotions CEO Ricky Hatton said: “A fight between Buckland and Foster Jr is a potential fight of the year candidate.

“A lot of people wrote Steve off after he lost the European title to Ermano Fegatilli, but has dusted himself down and got on with his career.

“Whoever wins the British title fight would have a great chance of facing Fegatilli who has found it hard getting work since he beat Steve.”

Other Contests: Jon Lewis Dickinson v Matty Askin (10x3 cruiserweight), Jazza Dickins v Yuri Voronin (6x3 super-bantamweight), Lucas Browne v Paul Butlin (6 rounds heavyweight), Adam Little v Chris Jenkinson (6x3 welterweight), Tommy Stubbs v Selected Opponent (4x3 bantamweight), Ryan Doyle v Selected Opponent (4x3 featherweight).

Boxing starts at 6.15pm and tickets are on sale. They are priced at £35 general admission, £55 floor seating, £75 ringside and £100 VIP Ringside. You can buy by calling the Hatton Box Office 01925 755 222, Ticketmaster 0844 847 2500, Ticketline 0844 888 9991, any boxer on the bill or online www.hattonboxing.com

Kina Malpartida!

Sampson Boxing Announces Malpartida's Next Challenger.

At a press conference held Wednesday in Lima, Peru, promoter Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson boxing announced that WBA Female Super Featherweight Champion, and Peruvian national hero, Kina Malpartida announced will face Thailand's Sriphrae Nongkipahuyuth on May 19, at a boxing event being held in conjunction with the WBA KO Drugs campaign.

The fight will be held at Miguel Grau Coliseum in the El Callao region of Peru.

Against Nongkipahuyuth (11-1-1, 4 KOs), Malpartida (13-3, 3 KOs) will be making the fifth defense of the title she won via TKO 10 over Maureen Shea in 2009. She has also defended against Halana Dos Santos (TKO 7), Lyndsey Scragg (UD 10), Liliana Palmera (UD 10) and was last seen defeating American Rhonda Luna via near-shutout 10-round decision last April.

Without having to put on the event herself, 32-year-old Malpartida says she is more than ready for her 19-year-old challenger.

"I am at my physical and mental peak," she told the huge crowd of assembled media. "Fighting in El Callao is the best thing that has ever happened to me. It will be a great honor to be making the fifth defense of my title in Peru. I have had a great training camp in the United States and by fight time, I will be in unbelievable physical condition.

Malpartida is the first Peruvian female boxer in history to win a world championship.

Juan Urango Comeback!

Margules Outraged And Disappointed At Urango Comeback Reports.

Promoter Leon Margules of Warriors Boxing wishes to issue the following warnings to the fighter and those involved with former IBF junior welterweight world champion Juan "Iron Twin" Urango's supposed comeback fight on April 26 at the Centro Bancomer in Mexico City, reportedly against Mexican veteran Cristian Chavez (23-18, 11 KOs).

"Juan Urango is still under contract to me," stated Margules. "He's still under contract to Warriors boxing and does not have permission to do this fight and we intend to pursue our legal remedies and will seek redress against anyone who interferes with our contract."

Urango (22-3-1, 17 KOs) hasn't fought since a March 2010 loss against Devon Alexander.

"He fought Devon Alexander and after the fight, told me he was going to retire. I congratulated him on his retirement and told him if he ever decided to fight again, he still had a certain period of time left on his contract."

Margules says he's shocked the fighter is even attempting this without contacting his promoter, who guided the Colombian slugger to multiple regional titles, two world titles and several high-profile fights.

"I am outraged and disappointed. We took him to the world title twice. He earned way over a million dollars in the ring and had many big fights including Ricky Hatton, Devon Alexander, Randall Bailey, Andre Berto. How many boxers can say that? I don't know who is talking to him or leading him to believe he no longer has an obligation to Warriors, but they should be aware: I have an exclusive promotional contract and whoever is putting him on is interfering."

Stieglitz V Groves!

Stieglitz: Groves First, Then Abraham.

Three top highlights at Erfurt´s night of boxing: Boxing fans will not only be looking forward to the WBO cruiserweight world championship between Marco “Captain” Huck (34-2, 25 KOs) and Ola Afolabi (19-2-3, 9 KOs) but also to two other world-class title bouts. Robert Stieglitz (41-2, 23 KOs) will defend his WBO super-middleweight belt against Georg Groves (14-0, 11 KOs). The heavyweights Kubrat Pulev (15-0, 7 KOs) and Alexander Dimitrenko (32-1, 21 KOs) will fight it out for the vacant European title.

Especially the fight for the European heavyweight crown promises to be very interesting. Therefore both fighters are extremely eager to step into the ring. “The fight against Alexander Dimitrenko is going to be the toughest of my career to this point,” says the 30-year-old Pulev. And it seems that the prodigy of coach Otto Ramin might be correct with his prediction. The former European champion is currently number two in the WBO rankings. Although Pulev is completely focusing on his upcoming task with Dimitrenko, he still announced: “First I want to be the champion of Europe. After that I will start thinking about which Klitschko I want to fight next.”

The possibility of a shot against one of the Klitschko brothers is something Dimitrenko has not even thought about: “The only thing on my mind is the fight for the European title in Erfurt. I do not care about what other people are saying. I am taking one step after the other.” The 29-year-old also got himself a new coach in the Brit Scott Welch, to ensure that he will be victorious against Pulev. “We are currently preparing in Aschaffenburg,” admitted the former European champion. “Due to an injury I had to vacate my title. Now I am completely fine and I want to be the champion of Europe once more.”

The Brit George Groves is even aiming for a world title. Unfortunately the 24-year-old prodigy of coach Adam Booth could not attend the press conference in Erfurt. Nevertheless the current WBO super-middleweight world champion Robert Stieglitz is not taking his opponent lightly. “He is a good guy – young and hungry for success. But he hasn’t been in as many fights as I have. I believe that my experience is going to make the difference and give me the advantage for this bout,” according to the 32-year-old.

SES coach Dirk Dzemski is also expecting a victory: “Robert has held his title for three years now. He has every reason to be optimistic when he steps into the ring.”

A title defence against Arthur Abraham is next on the cards. Frederick Ness, general manager of Sauerland Event: “We are happy that Robert Stieglitz is part of the fight card in Erfurt. He is a great athlete. If he should win against Groves, we can all look forward to an all German showdown versus Arthur.”

SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION!

TOP INTERNATIONAL PROSPECTS.

Six hungry prospects with a combined record of 88-4-5 with 61 knockouts will clash in a trio of vitally important fights on ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, April 27, live on SHOWTIME® (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) at Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Okla.

In the main event, unbeaten southpaw and IBO super middleweight champion Thomas "Tommy Gun'' Oosthuizen (18-0-1, 13 KOs) of Gauteng, South Africa, will make his ShoBox debut when he meets Marcus "Too Much" Johnson (21-1, 15 KOs), of Houston, in a 10-round super middleweight bout.

Undefeated Luis Orlando Del Valle (15-0, 11 KOs) of Bayamon, P.R., gets the toughest test of his career when he faces Christopher Martin (23-1-3, 6 KOs) of Chula Vista, Calif., in a 10-round super bantamweight battle.

Former international amateur standout and current World Boxing Council (WBC) super featherweight Youth champion Jose "The Sniper" Pedraza (7-0, 6 KOs), of Caguas, P.R., will open the telecast against Gil Garcia (5-2-1, 1 KO) in an eight-round super featherweight bout.

ShoBox expert analyst Steve Farhood is eager to see how the intriguing matchups play out. "I'm anxious to see Oosthuizen,'' Farhood said. "He seems like a physical marvel because he's 6-feet-4 and makes 168 pounds. This division is one we've targeted on SHOWTIME and ShoBox so we'll get our chance to see if he's going to be a player or not. But he's matched very tough. Johnson has proven in his previous ShoBox appearances that he has a lot of talent. If he's motivated, this is a virtual pick 'em fight.

"Del Valle shined in his one previous ShoBox fight, but Martin is a slick, very experienced boxer who's certainly a top 15 super bantamweight. So Del Valle is taking a big step up in class.

"And it's very exciting to have Pedraza on ShoBox. He's clearly one of best prospects in the world and might just be the best prospect in Puerto Rico, which is saying a lot given all the young talent on the island today.''

Oosthuizen, 24, is managed and trained by fellow countryman and former two-time world title challenger, Harold Volbrecht. The son of former two-division South African champion Charles Oosthuizen, Thomas is ranked No. 7 in the International Boxing Federation (IBF) and No. 10 by the WBC.

A rangy boxer-puncher, Oosthuizen has fought all but one of his fights in South Africa. This will be his second go in the United States after winning a unanimous decision over Aaron Pryor Jr., on Sept. 3, 2011, in Biloxi, Miss. The fast-starting Oosthuizen, despite a right eye that was cut and badly swollen, outlasted Pryor by the score of 117-111 three times.

Oosthuizen is coming off a sixth-round TKO over Serge Yannick on March 3. He turned pro in February 2008. The sole blemish on his record, a Nov. 6, 2010, draw, came in his 14th fight in a 12-rounder against Isaac Chilemba.

Johnson, who is making his 2012 debut, regained his winning ways in his last outing by outpointing William Bailey across six rounds on Nov. 19. In his outing before last, the 26-year-old suffered his lone defeat on an upset 10-round decision to Dyah Davis on April 8, 2011, on ShoBox.

A terrific amateur who just missed making the 2004 United States Olympic team, he twice defeated Andre Dirrell before losing to Andre Ward in the trials and The Box-Offs. Johnson was ranked in the top 10 by two of boxing's major organizations before the stunning setback to Davis, the son of 1976 U.S. Olympian Howard Davis.

"Everything happens in its own time, but I'm ready to make another move,'' said Johnson, a skilled boxer-puncher. "I have a lot to prove in this fight. I just want to thank SHOWTIME for having me again."

Johnson's other ShoBox appearances came against Victor Villereal (Oct. 2, 2009), Derek Edwards (April 30, 2010) and Kevin Engle (Nov. 5, 2010).

The world-ranked Del Valle, a quality prospect and member of the vaunted Team Puerto Rico, is rated No. 3 at featherweight in the World Boxing Association (WBA) and No. 8 in the World Boxing Organization (WBO). He's won eight of his last 10 fights by knockout.

This will be the 5-foot-6, 25-year-old Del Valle's second start in 2012 and third since he won his ShoBox debut with an impressive 10-round unanimous decision over Dat Nguyen. Del Valle is coming off a clear but hard-fought unanimous eight-round decision over Mexico's Jose Beranza on Jan. 21.

"I'm very excited and can't wait for this fight,'' said Del Valle, who lives in Puerto Rico and splits training between Puerto Rico and New York. "Martin beat Eduardo Arcos and Chris Avalos and the only fight he lost was very close. But with me, there won't be any excuses. I'm going to win. I feel I'm a complete fighter and if I just stay focused, everything will fall into place. I want to fight for a world title by early 2013.''

An outstanding amateur who captured countless titles en route to going 114-12, Del Valle has been a pro since April 11, 2008. A natural left-hander who fights from the orthodox stance, Del Valle made headlines recently for nearly getting into a fight with WBO bantamweight champion Jorge Arce at the weigh-in for the rematch between Orlando Salido and Juan Manuel Lopez in Puerto Rico.

Martin, the No. 8-ranked contender at 122 pounds in the International Boxing Federation (IBF), was unbeaten through 25 fights (23-0-2) with his most significant success coming in his 10-round debut on a split decision over the previously unbeatenAvalos on ShoBox, on Aug. 6, 2010, in Hinckley, Minn.

The 5-foot-7, 25-year-old Martin is looking to rebound on April 27, however, after going 0-1-1 in his last two starts. He boxed a 10-round majority draw with Teon Kennedy last Jan. 13, and dropped a split nod to Beranza on Oct. 1, 2011. The draw was scored 95-95, 95-95 and 97-93 for Kennedy. Martin lost to Beranza by the scores of 96-94, 97-93 and 98-92.

"I definitely have a lot to prove,'' said Martin, a pro since July 2006. "My last fight, I didn't fight my best, and I felt I lost to Beranza. There was just too much going on before that one. I never get nervous and I got nervous. I trained hard. It just wasn't me with the same edge. It was like just going through the motions.

"Somebody once told me that I 'fight to my opponent's level.' And even though I didn't want it to be true, it is true. When I fought Avalos, I knew I was going to be a challenged. That is how I feel now."

Pedraza represented Puerto Rico in the 2008 Olympics. He also was a gold medalist at the 2010 Central American and Caribbean Games, and was a three-time Puerto Rican national amateur champion.

A pro for little more than a year, the 21-year-old has mostly blitzed his opposition, winning all but one of his seven fights by knockout. He turned pro on Feb. 18, 2011, and fought six times that year. In his 2012 debut, he registered a fourth-round TKO over Anthony Woods in Puerto Rico.

"My training is going great. We are ready for any challenge and the fans can expect a great fight," said Pedraza, who trains in his hometown of Cidra, P.R. Jose started boxing when he was 10 and turned pro on Dec. 3, 2009, after going 155-15 in the amateurs.

Pedraza's opponent, Garcia, is no stranger to tough competition in his young career. The Houston native has already faced unbeaten prospects like Jerry Belmontes, Jesse Magdaleno and Gabino Saenz.

Paulie Ayala Productions!

Gloves & Guitars - The Tejano Throwdown.

Sat, Apr 14 at 12:00 - Final Sparring (all undercard)- Paulie Ayala's UHK, 6913 W. Camp Bowie Blvd., Suite 141, FW 76116

Sat, Apr 14 - Paulie Ayala and some of the fighters will be attending Copa ESPN Soccer tournament located at McInnish Soccer Complex in Carrollton.

Sun, Apr 15 at 4:00 - Fighters will be at the CowTown Conjunto Festival at La Grave Field to the promote The Tejano Throwdown!

Wed, Apr 18 - Main Event and former "The Contender" Star Brian Vera will arrive in town and will be working out at Paulie Ayala's UHK. Brian will be available for media througout the day. Contact Jeff Zimmerman - jzboxing@yahoo.com or 214-435-0994 to schedule an interview.

Fri, Apr 20 at 1:00 - Weigh-Ins -SouthWest Ford located at 3000 Ft Worth Hwy in Weatherford

Sat, Apr 21 - Fight Night - Media Credentials available at 4:00 in the lobby of the convention center.

Doors open to the public at 5:00 and first fight at 6:00

Followed by (3) award-winning Latin bands - Elida Reyna , Siggno and La Mafia!!

ROAD TO GLORY!

Saturday June 16th.

HATTON PROMOTIONS are delighted to officially announce their ‘Road To Glory’ bill which will take place at Manchester Velodrome on Saturday 16th June.

It is our biggest ever show in a short three year history and will feature four exciting title fights.

Topping the bill is a vacant ‘interim’ WBA world super-bantamweight title fight between Bury’s Scott Quigg and Leicester’s Rendall Munroe.

It is one of the biggest domestic clashes this year with British champion Quigg facing his toughest test ever against the former Commonwealth and European champion.

In the chief supporting bout Sheffield ‘Spice Boy’ Ryan Rhodes meets unbeaten Belarusian knockout artist Sergey Rabchenko for the vacant European light-middleweight title.

In a third title fight British, Commonwealth and WBA intercontinental champion Martin Murray will be in championship action against a top class opponent.

The Undefeated St Helens boxer held WBA super champion Felix Sturm to a draw back in December, and was due to face WBC champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr in June, but the fight was pulled because of visa problems.

Sheffield heavyweight hope Richard Towers bids for his first professional title when he comes up against another unbeaten fighter, Germany’s Michael Wallisch for the vacant EU heavyweight crown.

The card will be broadcast live by Sky Sports.

Hatton Promotions CEO Ricky Hatton said: “This is Hatton Promotions most ambitious promotion so far, and shows that we have come a long way in a short space of time.

“All the fights are competitive and everybody at the venue and watching live on television will get a show they can remember.

“I am so excited about Scott’s fight against Rendall. Scott is one of the best young boxer’s in the world at Rendall is one of the 8st 10lb elite fighters.

“Ryan’s fight against Rabchenko is between two world class operators and I have no doubt that the winner will challenge for a world title.

“I am certain Martin Murray is going all the way and if he wins in June I believe he will be made mandatory contender for the WBA crown.

“Richard Towers has done everything right and for a late starter to boxing deserves nothing but praise. By the end of 2012 he will be ready for Tyson Fury and David Price.”

Ticket prices are now on sale priced £125 (VIP Inner Ringside + exclusive cash bar), £100 Ringside, £55, £35 and £30. You can purchase tickets by calling Hatton Promotions hotline 01925 755 222/www.ticketmaster.co.uk/0844 847 2500/www.ticketline.co.uk/0844 888 4402/www.hmv.com

ARTEMIO "KING" REYES!

BACK IN ACTION THIS FRIDAY NIGHT.

Friday night will be bitter sweet for WBC Latino welterweight champion Artemio "King" Reyes Jr. (15-1, 12 KOs) when he faces Alan Sanchez (9-2-1, 3 KOs) as the opening bout of ESPN's "Friday Night Fights" live from the Hard Rock Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. His father, Artemio Reyes Sr., was in a coma since 2008 and was laid to rest on Tuesday, April 10, in Colton, CA.

People in the boxing community first heard of Reyes when he fought on national television for the first time and defeated Olympian and formerly undefeated Javier Molina. Some scribes were made aware of the incredible struggle and effort that Reyes went through on a daily basis as he took care of his mother and sisters, cared for his ailing father single-handedly, attended and graduated from California State University San Bernardino, managed the family owned restaurant and found time to train as a prize fighter.

His effort continues as he will honor the man who first took him to a boxing gym and would have liked to see his son move through the boxing ranks and become a force in the welterweight division.

HERRERA V ALVARADO!

FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE.

This Saturday, April 14, from the Mandalay Casino in Las Vegas a junior welterweight collision will erupt between Mauricio Herrera and Mike Alvarado LIVE on HBO Pay-Per-View, beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. (SRP $44.95)as part of the telecast that will feature Juan Manuel Marquez versus Sergey Fedchenko for the interim WBO Jr. welterweight championship, and Brandon Rios versus Richard Abril for the interim WBA lightweight championship.

Mauricio Herrera:

A lot of people didn't expect me to be where I'm at today but I put in a lot of hard work. I fought tough guys in the past, put in a hard 8 weeks of training and this is it for me. I was a late bloomer. This is it for me. I'm ready for a big fight like this. A lot of hard work went into my preparation and I have waited a long time to finally face one of the best to prove myself and to show the world who Mauricio Herrera is. I am ready and I will perform. Alvarado is a tough challenger and he showed it on all his fights but I am more than ready for him.Mike Alvarado has a lot of heart and that's going to make for a good fight on Saturday April 14th. This is it for me, I'm ready and I hope he's ready.

Mike Alvarado:

This is going to be a great card, There's a lot of great talent on this card. I trained hard for this fight and it's one of the best camps I've ever had so I'm ready. I'm ready to put on a good show like I always do and I hope Mauricio can swim because I'm taking him to deep waters.

The Mike Alvarado vs. Mauricio Herrera bout is promoted by Top Rank in association with Thompson Boxing Promotions. The Marquez/Rios world championship event is promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zanfer Promotions, Tecate and AT&T, remaining tickets priced at $250, $150, $100, $50 and $25, not including applicable service charges,are available at all Ticketmaster locations (select Smith's Food and Drug Centers and Ritmo Latino). To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Mandalay Bay at (877) 632-7400 or Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.mandalaybay.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

DANNY "EL TRAVIESO" HERNANDEZ!

RETURNS TO THE RING THIS FRIDAY, APRIL 13TH.

Nearly two years has passed since unbeaten lightweight Danny "El Travieso" Hernandez (10-0, 6 KOs) cheated death by surviving a stray bullet wound to his head. The incident occurred at a party when bullets fired were intended for someone else but instead hit him. Hernandez was left for dead at an inoperative medical clinic. After a seven hour brain surgery the prognosis was grim. Doctors informed his parents that Daniel would suffer partial paralysis and the inability to hear or speak.

Fast forward three weeks and miraculously the fighter walked out of the hospital on his own two feet. His determination and desire set the pace for his fast recovery as well as the pace for quick return to the ring.

In what will be his first fight since January of 2010, Hernandez will be put to the test as he faces off against Mexico's Jorge Resendiz (5-2, 4 KOs) in a 6-round lightweight bout at Foro Polanco in Mexico City.

STAR BOXING RETURNS!

MAY 2ND FOR VIP BOXING III.

Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing returns to Russo's On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York on Wednesday, May 2nd with VIP BOXING III, a stellar professional boxing card headlined by perennial heavyweight contender Vinny Maddalone.

Advance tickets for VIP BOXING III are available in tables of ten, $3500 for Gold seating and $2000 for Silver. Tickets may be purchased by calling Star Boxing at 718-823-2000 or by visiting their website at www.StarBoxing.com A limited number of individual table tickets are also available for $200.

The full service VIP event will kick off promptly at 7pm with an hour-long cocktail reception followed by a four course elegant dinner along with the first bout starting at 8pm. An open bar will run for the course of the dinner and evening's bouts.

"We're very excited to bring a terrific night of professional boxing once again to the beautiful Russo's On The Bay venue. This is our third VIP BOXING event and just like the last two it will be a wonderful evening of food and cocktails along with action packed fights," said DeGuardia.

In the ten round main event, fan favorite Maddalone, 34-7-0 (25KO's) of nearby Flushing, Queens, will clash with Youngstown, Ohio's Chris Koval, 25-8-0 (18KO's).

In his last start on October 22nd, Maddalone demonstrated the power he's been known over his thirteen years as a professional with a devastating first round knockout of Mike Sheppard at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

"It's great to have Vinny back in the ring, he's been a very popular fighter for many years in the New York/New Jersey area. Along with his showdown against Chris Koval we're putting together a terrific undercard for this event."

The co-main event at VIP BOXING III will be an eight round junior welterweight clash between former world title challenger "Mighty Mike" Arnaoutis and Albany, New York's Broderick Antoine.

A native of Athens, Greece, now living in Astoria, Queens, the southpaw Arnaoutis carries a record of 23-7-2 (10KO's) amassed over his eleven year career, most recently shutting out Shakha Moore over six rounds on February 10th at the Mohegan Sun Casino.

Archuleta V Hyland!

May 12TH In Poughkeepsie.

Battle-tested veteran boxer Frankie Archuleta figures to be a significant test for undefeated Irish super featherweight prospect Patrick "The Punisher" Hyland, headlining the "Irish Invasion" card, May 12 at Mid-Hudson Civic Center in Poughkeepsie, New York.

The "Irish Invasion" card is being presented by Final Round Promotions, in association with Team Snooki Boxing and Bob Duffy's Ring Promotions, and sponsored in part by Title Boxing.

Hyland (25-0, 11 KOs) and Archuleta (27-9-1, 14 KOs) square-off in the eight-round main event. The 28-year-old Hyland, a Dubliner now living in nearby Marlboro (NY), is rated No. 12 by the North American Boxing Association ("NABA"). Trained by two-division world champion Tracy Harris Patterson, Patrick is the reigning World Boxing Federation ("WBF") super featherweight champion.

Upset-minded Archuleta has a history in terms of pulling off surprises in the ring. The highlight of his career is a split-decision win over five-time world champion Johnny Tapia. A former New Mexico and Texas State champion, Frankie extended former world champion Alejandro Berrio and world title challenger Emmanuel Lucero the full 12-round distance in their respective fights. The vastly experienced Archuleta has also fought world champion Kevin Kelley and world title challengers Juan Carlos Burgos, Rocky Juarez and Daud Cino Yordan, as well as the International Boxing Federation's ("IBF") currently top-rated lightweight, John Molina, and No. 1 junior lightweight contender Martin Honorio.

Yonkers (NY) super featherweight Chazz McDowell (5-1, 1 KOs) faces Joseliz Cepeda (5-2) in the six-round co-feature. Canadian light welterweight Natasha Spencer (3-0-1, 2 KOs) meets Racquel Bailey (1-1-1) in a six-round female match.

Also fighting on the undercard in separate four-round bouts are undefeated Newburgh light welterweight favorite Treysean Wiggins (3-0, 3 KOs), New York City light middleweight Valdrin Muriqi (2-1), and Waterbury (CT) light welterweight Jair Ramos (2-0, 1 KO); former USA Mid-American middleweight champion Bryant "The Spartan" Pappas (13-0-1, 13 KOs) tangles with Josh Williams (5-4, 4 KOs), while unbeaten Poughkeepsie heavyweight Detroy Jones (5-0-1, 2 KOs) fights Kimani "King Kong" Cunningham (0-5) in a rematch from a year ago.

Pappas, a sergeant in the Yonkers Police Department, is a cancer survivor who is donating his purse to cancer research. Team Snooki Boxing is donating $1.00 from each sold ticket to Rolling Thunder, Chapter III New York to support needy U.S. military veterans.

Tickets, reasonably priced at $35.00, $50.00 and $100 (Gold Ringside), are available to purchase at the Mid-Hudson Civic Center and through all Ticketmaster outlets.

Doors open at 6:30 PM/ET with the first bout scheduled for 7:30 PM/ET. Go to www.finalroundpromotions.com for additional information.