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Jones Victorious By KO, Results From Atlantic City Mike Jones (22-0 18KOs) remained unbeaten with a fifth round KO over
Irving Garcia (17-5-3 8KOs) Friday night at the Boardwalk Hall in
Atlantic City, NJ. Time was 1:22. Langham Decisions Asis Ryan
Langham (12-1, 5 KOS) a former 2004 Olymian scored a six round
unanimous decision over Jack Asis (21-14-4 10KOs) of the Philippines.
All judges saw it the same 58-56, Langham's only loss was to current
IBO lightweight champion and IBF ranked #11 Lenny Zappavigna. In
the undercard Casey Hannan (4-1-1, 2 KOs) scored a second round
knockout at 2:47 seconds over Filipino Abner Llansa (5-16-1 3KOs). Daws Stops Williams, Skelton KOs Swaby Lenny
Daws (21-1-2 9KOs) retained his BBBofC British light welterweight title
with a tenth round TKO over Steve Williams (9-1 3KOs) Friday at York
Hall in Bethnal Green, London, United Kingdom. Heavyweight Matt Skelton (23-5 20KOs) scored a fifth round KO over Lee Swaby (25-27-2 11KOs). Bradley Pryce TKO(2) Ted Bami Michael Lomax PTS(6) Stephen Okine George Hillyard PTS(6) Keiron Gray Prince Arron TKO(5) Tony Randell Barry Morrison TKO(2) Billy Smith Grzegorz Proksa TKO(4) Alex Spitko Chris Evangelou PTS(4) Aaron Fox Margarito's Application Tabled By NSAC After
a Friday meeting with former world champ Antonio Margarito and his
representatives, the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) tabled
Margarito's application for a boxing license in the state of Nevada.
The unanimous 4-1 vote by the commission to table the application is
not necessarily a decline as they recommended Margarito to once again
go before the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC). Although
Margarito has fully served his suspension handed down by CSAC, he has
not received a license in the United States. The NSAC will again review
the application once the CSAC makes a ruling.
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Welterweight Lanardo Tyner (24-3 15KOs) won in an impressive ninth
round TKO over Antwone Smith (18-2-1 10KOs). Smith had his moments in
the early rounds, but Tyner would come on in the later rounds and would
stop Smith in round nine at 1:15.
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Welterweight Manuel Guzman scored a second round KO over Ardrick Butler
in all out war bout. Both fighers were knocked down in round one, but
Guzman would come out on top at 2:53 in round two knocking Butler out.
Ryan Belasco UD(6) Kevin Carmody
Walter Edwards TKO(2) Anthony Smith
Miguel Corsino TKO(1) Epifanio Rodriguez
Manuel Guzman KO(2) Ardrick Butler
Rafael Jastrzebski UD(4) Joseph Dunn
Josh Mercado UD(4) Kywame Hill
Jason Sosa UD(4) Clinton Douglas
Steve MartinezTKO(2) Jason Thompson
Alvarez-Cuello Weights
Saul
Alvarez (150lbs) and Luciano Cuello (150lbs) both weighed in for their
bout Saturday night at Arena VFG in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. At
stake will be the WBC Silver junior middleweight title. The bout will
be available to view via WBCBoxing.tv beginning at 12am ET.
Comanche Boy Stops Ford In One, Results From Oklahoma
George "Comanche Boy" Tahdooahnippah (24-0-1 19KOs) needed only one round to stop Dezi Ford (24-29-2 9KOs) Thursday night at Remington Park in Oklahoma City, OK. Time was 2:59.
James "Boogie" Freeman (6-2 4KOs) scored a first round TKO over Terrence Jones (13-14 7KOs). Time was 0:27.
The bout between Stephanie Dobbs (27-26-4 15KOs) and Chelsea Collarelli (0-0: pro debut) ended in a no contest.
Chris Russel TKO(2) Jonathan Nelson
Chris Ledbetter TKO(1) Shaun Hinkle
Ty Cobb UD(4) Ross Brantley
Lange-LeBlanc Weights
Jimmy Lange 154 vs. Jimmy LeBlanc 154
Undercard:
DeMarcus Corley 141 vs. Damian Fuller 143
Tony Jeter 154 vs. Lawrence Jones 153
Juan Rodriguez 143 vs. Dontre King 144.5
Jennifer Salinas 122 vs. Nathalie Forget 119
Brandon Quarles 154 vs. Vincent Batteast 153
Todd Wilson 140 vs. Calvin Faggins 139
Zain Shah 158 vs. Antonio Walls N/A (will weigh in later)
Guerrero vs Smith Headlines ShoBox Tripleheader Just
days from celebrating its ninth anniversary, SHOWTIME will televise a
quintessential ShoBox: The New Generation fight card from DeSoto Civic
Center in Southaven, Miss., just a short drive from Memphis, Tenn. In
emblematic fashion, this edition of ShoBox will feature highly-regarded
prospects in the toughest and arguably most important fights of their
careers. World-ranked middleweight prospect Fernando Guerrero (18-0, 15
KOs) will put his undefeated record on the line against tough veteran
Ishe Smith (21-4, 9 KOs) in a 10-round bout in the main event of a
tripleheader telecast on Friday, July 16, live SHOWTIME at 11 p.m.
ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast). HBO Sports To Replay Marquez-Diaz I Leading
up to the lightweight championship bout featuring Juan Manuel Marquez
and Juan Diaz – set for Saturday, July 31 and broadcast live on HBO
Pay-Per-View® – HBO Sports will present the exclusive replay of their
first encounter that was named 2009 “Fight of the Year.” On Friday,
July 16 at 7:15 p.m., Friday, July 23 at 12:00 midnight and Saturday,
July 24 at 10:45 a.m., HBO2 will replay Marquez vs. Diaz 2009. All
times are ET/PT. In their first meeting, which took place on February
28, 2009 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Marquez and Diaz lived up to
the expectations with a dazzling display of skill and determination.
Marquez won the classic fight with a 9th round knockout. Alantez Fox Set For Pro Debut The
professional debut of a former amateur standout is always a special
occasion and this Friday night, July 9th will be no exception as
Alantez “TEZ” Fox of Forrestville , Maryland , will face off against
Toledo ’s Najee Hayes in Chambersburg , Pennsylvania . The Fox/Hayes
scheduled four round welterweight "Solo Boxeo Tecate" Weights Weights for tonight's Golden
Boy Promotions' "Solo Boxeo Tecate" card on Telefutur from the Softball
Country Complex in Denver, CO Erislandy Lara 155 vs. William Correa 153 Undercard: Ricky Lopez 122 vs. Derrick Wilson 123
The tripleheader will be the 143rd ShoBox telecast since the series began on July 21, 2001.
Promising, unbeaten knockout artist Shawn Porter (15-0, 12 KOs), of
Cleveland, Ohio, will face fellow prospect Ray Robinson (11-1, 4 KOs),
of Philadelphia, Pa., in a 10-round junior middleweight (catch weight
150 lbs) bout.
Philadelphia’s Lanard Lane (12-0, 7 KOs), another talented, undefeated
prospect, will put his perfect record up against Mike Dallas, Jr.,
(14-0, 5 KOs), of Bakersfield, Calif., in an eight-round welterweight
bout.
The tripleheader is promoted by Prize Fight in association with DiBella Entertainment.
The power-punching Guerrero, of Salisbury, Md., by way of the Dominican
Republic, has scored all 15 of his knockouts inside of four rounds. The
No. 5-rated World Boxing Organization (WBO) contender at 160 pounds,
Guerrero is fresh off a dominating second-round TKO victory over
Michael Walker on April 16 in Salisbury on ShoBox.
ShoBox color commentator and boxing historian Steve Farhood has called
all three of Guerrero’s fights on SHOWTIME and witnessed him develop
from a fringe prospect into a legitimate threat in the middleweight
division.
“Fernando Guerrero has unmistakable star appeal, and in taking on Ishe
Smith, he's ready to prove he has the class to match the flash,”
Farhood said. “Smith will be Guerrero's toughest test to date. It's a
critical step for Guerrero, who's ready to move from prospect to top-20
contender.”
Former light heavyweight kingpin and current ShoBox expert analyst Antonio Tarver agrees.
“It’s been nice watching him develop because he seems to have all the
tools to become a contender,” Tarver said. “We just want to seem him
step up the competition and we think Smith is that step for him. He was
under matched in his last fight and he had a nice win in front of his
hometown, but it wasn’t the best indication of what his potential is.
The Smith fight should be that indicator.”
“He has all the natural, God-given talent and ability, but the mark of
a champion is how he fights under pressure and under adversity. If he
loses a round or two, will he be able to dig deep and bring out
something special?”
Tarver thinks that Smith will serve as that necessary tough test for
the prospect who has won 14 of his 18 fights in under four rounds.
“Smith has never been stopped and has been going the distance
recently,” Tarver said. “He hasn’t been winning much, but we don’t
expect him to quit in this. We’ll see the best of Ishe Smith because he
knows this is a must-win. Smith is looking to reestablish himself and
that makes him a dangerous fighter. This should be a real test for both
men.”
While Guerrero agrees that Smith will be a tough opponent, he admits
that he isn’t training differently for the veteran than he has for any
of his previous opponents.
“Every step is a critical step -- lose once to anyone and you will see
how critical it is,” Guerrero said. “I take every fight as the most
important and toughest challenge of my career. I worked as hard for
this fight as for the guys that were 3-4 back in the beginning.
“As far as my toughest fight? Ask me again after the fight.”
The 23-year-old Guerrero isn’t worried that he only has 59 total rounds
of ring experience under his belt with just one fight going the full 10
rounds.
“If I see an opportunity to slam the door shut I am going to do it,”
Guerrero said. “If it happens in the first or the 10th, that is what
you are suppose to do. No one on my team expects me to carry a fight
extra rounds just to get more experience.
“If you need more rounds you fight tougher guys, and that is what we
are doing. I can't imagine (former trainer/manager) Cus D'Amato telling
(Mike) Tyson he should have carried his guys more rounds to get ring
experience. I have only been a pro for two-and-a-half years, but I know
we are getting close to contending for a title as you can see the
better opponents we are facing now.”
Prior to the Walker victory, Guerrero scored a thrilling fourth-round
TKO victory over Jessie Nicklow on Dec. 18, 2009, on ShoBox. The former
Jr. Olympian’s career-best win came in a hard-fought 10-round majority
decision over former British Commonwealth welterweight and junior
middleweight champion Ossie Duran on Oct. 10, 2009.
A southpaw who spars with brothers Anthony and Lamont Peterson,
Guerrero is trained by Barry Hunter, who describes his fighter as a
gym-rat and a workaholic.
Guerrero is going to have his work cut out for him against the veteran
and re-energized Smith, who participated in the first season of the
reality TV series “The Contender.” Smith recently sparred with
pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather, Jr., in Las Vegas before his
fight against Shane Mosley.
“Going to Mayweather’s camp rejuvenated me,” Smith said. “It
rededicated me to the sport that’s been in my blood since I was born. I
know it benefited him to some degree, but it was huge for me.
“At that time I had my advisor tell me, ‘Get in the gym,’ but I had
fights keep falling out. I couldn’t stay focused on boxing. When I got
that call to go help him it just refreshed me as a fighter and as a
man. I needed that at that particular time.”
Fresh off the experience of training with one of boxing’s brightest
stars, Smith, of Las Vegas, Nev., now has an opportunity to take down
one of the sport’s most coveted prospects.
“This has been my best camp in 10 years -- by far my best camp I’ve
ever had,” Smith said. “He’s young, he’s hungry and that will make for
a really interesting fight. I’m very experienced in boxing, in
sparring, I’ve sparred some of the biggest names in the sport.”
The 31-year-old Smith knows his experience could give him the opportunity to push the hard-hitting Guerrero to the brink.
“It’s going to be very interesting to see what the young man can
handle,” Smith said. “When we get into swimming and get into the deep,
deep waters, it will be interesting to see if he still needs those
floaties. My job is to take the young man into deep waters and cut
those floaties off and see if he’ll sink or swim.
“I’ve fought some big names: (Joel) Julio, (Daniel) Jacobs, (Sechew)
Powell, (Sergio) Mora. I’ve been here, I’ve done that. The question
isn’t what I’m going to do; the question is what he’s going to do. We
will take off those floaties. There’s no question about that, but we’ll
see if he sinks or swims.”
Curt Menefee will call the action from ringside with Steve Farhood and
Antonio Tarver serving as expert analysts. The executive producer of
ShoBox is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips
directing.
For information on SHOWTIME Sports telecasts, including exclusive
behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, complete fighter
information and more, please go the SHOWTIME Sports website at
http://www.sho.com/sports.
About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME
boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent
matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting,
crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground
for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. The
growing list of fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to
garner world titles includes: Leonard Dorin, Scott Harrison, Juan Diaz,
Jeff Lacy, Ricky Hatton, Joan Guzman, Juan Urango, David Diaz, Robert
Guerrero, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Malignaggi, Kendall Holt, Timothy Bradley,
Bernard Dunne, Yonnhy Perez, Yuri Foreman and Andre Ward.
The fight will also be available to HBO® On Demand subscribers and can
be seen 24 hours a day, from Monday, July 19 thru Monday, August 30.
On Saturday, July 31, at 9:00 p.m. ET/ 6:00 p.m. PT, HBO
Just 18 year old, the 6’ 4” Fox capped off a fantastic amateur career
by taking first place in the welterweight division at the 2010 Under –
19 National Championships in Cincinnati , Ohio , this past February.
‘My training has been great leading up to this week, I’ve been a little
nervous but that’s to be expected” said Fox. “After this bout I want to
stay active and fight as much as possible. I’m anxious to get as much
experience as a professional as quickly as possible.
Earlier this month, Fox signed with fast rising, international
promotional company, TKO Boxing Promotions who plan to keep him busy
and developing. He will be coming back Saturday, July 31st on the “
Battle of York V” show at the Sovereign Bank Stadium in York , PA.
Said Chet Koerner, President of TKO Boxing
Raul Carillo 145 vs. Joel Vargas 148
Brittnay Cruz 125 vs. Nohime Dennisson 125
Stepan Zeytunnyan 171 vs. Cruz Soltero 179
John Kiser 217 vs. Chris Green 226
Adam Limon 162 vs. Allen Medina 160
Juanma-Concepcion Weights
Photo: Rafael Soto / Zanfer Promotions Juan Manuel Lopez 125.3 vs Bernabe Concepcion 125 Undercard: Nonito Donaire 114 1/2 vs Hernan Marquez 115
Eden Sonsosa 121.6 vs Jonathan Oquendo 121.4
Garcia vs Lock In IBF Title Eliminator August 14
Migue
Angel Garcia (22-0 18KOs) and Cornelius Lock (19-5-1 12KOs) are set to
meet in an IBF featherweight title eliminator bout on Saturday, August
14 at the Laredo Energy Center in Laredo, TX. The bout will take place
on the undercard to the Ji Hoon Kim vs Miguel Vazquez lightweight title
bout and will be televised as part of Top Rank's "Top Rank Live" series
on Fox Sports en Espanol.
Joel Julio Added To Adamek-Grant Undercard
Joel
Julio (35-4 31KOs) will look to get back on track when he returns to
action against an opponent TBA on the Tomasz Adamek-Michael Grant
undercard August 21. The bout will be the co-featured attraction of the
evening at take place at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ.
Pavlik Planning October Ring Return
Kelly Pavlik may be headed for a ring return this fall. The former middleweight champ is working on plans to fight in October, but no opponent has been named. "Kelly is just waiting to hear from me and from Top Rank. They have talked to me about a small fight in October, probably at 168. They asked me if Kelly would be interested in fighting again in mid-October and I said absolutely. Kelly is ready to get started and get going again," Pavlik's co-manager, Cameron Dunkin, told ESPN.com.
Tunacao Defeats Iannazzo, Claims PABA Title, Ramadan Victorious
Allan Jay Tunacao (10-2-3 3KOs) scored a twelve round split decision over previously unbeaten Daniel Iannazzo (17-1 6KOs) to claim the vacant PABA super bantamweight title Friday at Town Hall in Coburg, Victoria, Australia.
Susie Ramadan (15-0 6KOs) outworked Jane Kavulani (11-11-2 4KOs) on her way to a ten round unanimous decision. With the win, Ramadan claims the vacant WBF female bantamweight title.
Serge Yannick TKO(8) William Hadlow
Nick Themelakis UD(6) Geoff Frazer
Evan Themelakis UD(6) Frank Ciampa
Burns Responds To Martinez
Raging Ricky Burns has hit back at WBO World Super-Featherweight champion Roman Martinez.
The heavy-handed Puerto Rican has vowed to KO Burns on September 4 at Glasgow's Kelvin Hall.
He claimed he would need to get the stoppage in order to avoid a home town decision.
But Burns says he will not be humiliated in front of Scotland's passionate fight fans.
The fight will be televised live and exclusive on Sky Sports.
"I read what Martinez said and it has made me more determined to beat him," stormed Burns.
"I fancy my chances in stopping him because I'm punching harder now than I ever have done before.
"You want to see some of my sparring partners after I have been 12 rounds with them.
"But if I beat Martinez on points it will be because I deserve the victory, not because the judges are biased.
"Martinez is a dangerous puncher but I am the better boxer and everyone will see that in September.
"I'll run rings around him and get the result that I deserve.
"I think he's just trying to get his excuses in early because he knows
that there is no way he is taking that belt back to Puerto Rico.
"He found a lucky punch to beat Nicky Cook when he was being out-boxed, but he won't get lucky against me."
Titled 'Burns Night', Martinez v Burns headlines a super-card at the
famous Kelvin Hall in Glasgow that also features an exciting showdown
between John Simpson and Stephen Smith for the Commonwealth
Featherweight Championship; plus the comeback of former British
Featherweight Champion Paul Appleby; and rising stars John Thain,
Steven Ormond and Gary O'Sullivan.
Tickets are priced at £40, £50, £75 and £150 from the following outlets:
Morrison Promotions: 0141 554 7777
Tickets Scotland: 08444 155 221 or www.tickets-scotland.com
Viloria-Soto Weights
Brian
Viloria and Omar "Lobito" Soto will face-off this Saturday in a
ten-round non-title fight in Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City. Viloria
weighed in at 112lbs while Soto weighed in at 1111/2 lbs
Green-Biggs Moved, Green Calls For Investigation
IBO cruiserweight champion Danny Green’s July 21 title defense against
Paul Briggs has been moved from Sydney to Perth, Australia. The bout
will now take place in Challenge Stadium after NSW Combat Sports
Authority refused to approve Briggs (26-3, 18 KOs), who is returning
after a three-and-a-half year layoff. An outraged Green has called for
an investigation.
Brahmer Ready For Lakatos
Photo: Universum
WBO light heavyweight champion
Jürgen Brähmer (36-2, 29 KOs) has completed the hard sparring phase of
his training for his July 17th title defense against Spaniard Alejandro
Lakatos (31-5-2, 23 KOs) in Schwerin, Germany. “Jürgen has powered
through 78 rounds,” said trainer Michael Timm. “This was very good
sparring. I’m excited about his attitude. But training and fighting are
two different things. On July 17th, it all comes down to how he
implements everything. Lakatos is difficult and experienced. But Jürgen
is also…”
—–
Also announced for the July 17 undercard will be unbeaten featherweight
Marcel Meyerdiercks (16-0, 5 KOs) vs TBA, heavyweight Christian Hammer
(7-1, 4 KOs) against unbeaten Mariusz Wach (21-0, 9 KOs) and super
middleweight contender Eddy Gutknecht (18-1, 7 KOs) meets Tarek
Kaidouri (12-11-2, 0 KOs).
—–
Besides Brähmer-Lakatos, the card also features “Killer Queen” Susi
Kentikian (27-0, 16 KOs) defending her three flyweight championships
against Arely Mucino (11-0-1, 6 KOs), plus an important WBO
cruiserweight eliminator between Alexander Alekseev (19-1, 17 KOs) and
Denis Lebedev (20-0, 15 KOs).
Alvarez Will Be Live On WBC Webcast WBCBoxing.tv will present a live
championship webcast – free of charge – on Saturday night (Please note:
the webcast is not available in Mexico). Everyone is invited to watch
at 12AM ET. In the main event, scheduled for 12 rounds from Arena VFG
in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, teenage phenom Saul “Canelo” Alvarez,
32-0-1 with 24 knockouts, of Guadalajara, will face Luciano “El
Principe” Cuello, 26-1 with 12 knockouts, of La Plata, Argentina, for
the vacant WBC Silver super welterweight championship. Tickets are sold
out at the arena, and a capacity crowd of 12,000 will be in attendance.
With eight more days to go after the
fight before his 20th birthday, Alvarez is already a four-year pro and
considered by many to be one of boxing’s top young prospects. He won
the vacant North American Boxing Federation welterweight title in
January, 2009, and made five successful title defenses. He also holds
the WBC Youth welterweight title. Fighting for the first time at 154
pounds, Alvarez is ranked No. 3 at 147 pounds in the WBC’s May ratings. The 26-year-old Cuello has won three
fights in a row, two by knockout, since his only loss in a fast-paced,
exciting battle against Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. in March, 2009. Cuello
gave a very strong effort in the fight and won the last two rounds on
two judges’ scorecards, but lost a close 10-round decision. He is
ranked No. 16 at 147 pounds in the WBC’s May ratings. In the co-featured bout scheduled for
10 rounds, WBC Youth female flyweight champion Irma “La Guerita”
Sanchez, 17-3-1 with 5 knockouts, of Guadalajara, will face Soledad
Macedo, 7-4-1 with 3 knockouts, of Salto, Uruguay, for the vacant WBC
Female Silver light flyweight title. Sanchez, 22 years old, has won four
fights in a row and is ranked WBC No. 1 in the female light flyweight
ratings. She also holds the WBC Youth Female flyweight title, as well
as the NABF Female light flyweight title. Macedo, 27 years old, is the
Uruguayan female light flyweight champion and has a six-fight winning
streak. The fights will be televised live in Mexico on Channel 2-Televisa at 11:00 P.M. (23:00 hrs) Central Time.
Bradley, Angulo Workout Pics/Quotes
Photo: CARLOS BAEZA / THOMPSON BOXING PROMOTIONS TIMOTHY BRADLEY Training camp is going well. I feel strong. Ready to go. Ready for a dominant opponent in Carlos Abregu. I'm used to fighting big guys. I'm
going to feel Abregu's power. In the beginning, I am sure he will have
heavy hands. Then I will take it from there. I don't want to get hit by any heavy
shots. For me to win this fight it comes down to fighting smart and not
getting over confident. I trained to go 12 hard rounds. I'm not a knockout puncher but anything can happen. A KO would be amazing. Abregu is a dangerous fighter. I am finally on the big scene now. I worked my way from the backyard to a bigger audience. These fights that I am fighting are meant to open up doors. Before it was hard getting a fight at 140 pounds. I want to fight the best fighters in
the world. I understand that boxing is a business so I know that I have
to fight them all and I am willing. I'll fight Devon Alexander, I'll
fight Amir Khan, I'll fight Marcos Maidana, I'll fight Victor Ortiz.
'll fight any guys. Devon Alexander... That's a guy I
want. He has made all kinds of false accusations, saying I “feared
him.” I'll go to St. Louis to fight him if I have to. If it works with
the business, let's make it happen. I’ve got a promotional and management team, they know what's best. I'd fight Pac Man or Floyd. If I can get into the ring with them I've accomplished what I needed to in boxing. Floyd Mayweather is the best fighter
in the world and he could drug test me all he wants. The only thing in
me is my GOD-given talent. He can test me all he wants. I feel I am ready for a fight with Mayweather or Pacquaio. Everybody's beatable. Everyone can be
touched. Those four corners can close in on you. Mayweather has big
fight experiences as his advantage and I have my youth. Pac Man is a monster too. Both these fighters are the best. Pac Man's a speedster. A fight against him would be fireworks. They can take me out to the deep
water, I'm ready. I’ve got a big will to win. It's fun to talk about it
but it would be a lot more fun to be in the ring with either one of
them. My team has been pushing me and boosting me into the pound for pound Top-10. I was frustrated when the Maidana
fight fell out so I checked with my manager Cameron Dunkin and he said
we would move to the original plan of fighting Carlos Abregu. I just want to win, As long as I get a victory, I’ve done my job. Amir Khan is the most protected fighter at 140 pounds. He's a good fighter. I don't know what he is afraid of. For Abregu, I just need to keep my
left hand up and stay smart. Sometimes I let my heart get in the way
and I get over aggressive. I need to stay poised to win the fight. I
need to stay smart and not get reckless. I have a lot more energy. I don’t
feel like I have been training for a fight. I’m not tired. I'll have
even more energy come fight night. I feel strong at 147 pounds. I feel a
little slower but a lot stronger up at top. I feel like getting on the
inside and fighting. I normally walk around at 160-165 pounds. For fight night I will be at no more than 150 – 151 pounds. After focusing on this fight, I’ll
see if I can get a good fight at 147...Berto, Maidana, possibly... But
for now my focus is on Abregu.
Undefeated World Boxing Organization
(WBO) junior welterweight champion and Top-10 pound for pound fighter
TIMOTHY "Desert Storm" BRADLEY and No. 1 junior middleweight contender
ALFREDO "Perro" ANGULO hosted a Los Angeles Media Workout Thursday at
the Fortune Gym in Hollywood, Calif. Both fighters will be featured
atop an all-action card, in separate 12-round bouts, Saturday, July 17,
at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino • Resort • Spa in Rancho Mirage,
Calif.. HBO Boxing After Dark will televise both bouts live, beginning
at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast.)
Bob Arum has excuses. My job is to continue to win. Boxing fans want to
see fights and I know that Pac Man or Mayweather will need dancing
partners and I'm waiting.
Photo: CARLOS BAEZA / THOMPSON BOXING PROMOTIONS
ALFREDO ANGULO I have kept up my same routine as I would with any fight. I'm
working hard. The only thing that has changed in training camp is I
brought in Daryl Hudson, my strength and conditioning coach. With Daryl's training I feel great strength in my legs and arms. I'm also much faster now. I plan to pressure Alcine in the ring. I'm going to force him to fight. Alcine runs in the ring but all fighters do. I have kept up my training since my last fight. I am able to eat what I would like because I train so hard. Alcine is a great fighter. He has only one defeat and that was against a great fighter. After Alcine, I don't have a preference. I'll fight whoever can give me a great fight. Everyday when I am at the gym I try to learn and do something
different. The day a fighter says he knows it all is the day he is in
trouble. Promoted by Gary Shaw Productions and Thompson Boxing Promotions,
remaining tickets, priced at $180, $150, $130, $90 and $45, and box
seats - $225, can be purchased at The Show box office, by calling
800-585-3737 and online at www.HotWaterCasino.com/TheShow. Bradley (25-0, 11 KOs), from Palm Springs, Calif., will be venturing
into the heavier welterweight division for the first time when he
battles undefeated Top-Five welterweight contender Carlos Abregu (29-0,
23 KOs), of Argentina, in a 12-round welterweight rumble. Angulo (18-1, 15 KOs), a native of Mexacali. Mexico, trains in
Maywood, Calif. His last 14 victories have been by knockout, dating
back to 2006. Angulo will be going toe-to-toe with former World Boxing
Association (WBA) super welterweight champion Joachim "Ti-Joa" Alcine
(32-1, 19 KOs), of Montreal, in a 12-round junior middleweight war.
********************************************
Jones-Garcia Weights
Photo: Rich J. Hundley III / Showtime
Mike Jones 146.5 vs Irving Garcia 146.5
Undercard:
Antwone Smith 145.5 vs Lanardo Tyner 148
Manuel Guzman 146.5 vs Ardrick Butler 148
Ryan Belasco 137.5 vs Kevin Carmody 138.5
Bryheim Douglas 129 vs Jason Sosa 128.5
Steve Martinez 152.5 vs Jason Thompson 151.5
Walter Edwards 173.5 vs Anthony Caputo 179
Josh Mercado 145 vs Kywame Hill 143.5
Miguel Corsino 145 vs Epifanio Cosme Rodriguez 145.5
Rafael Jastrzebski 167 vs Joseph Dunn 162
Lundy-Molina Weights
Hank Lundy 135 vs. John Molina, Jr. 135
Undercard:
Joey Mccreedy 166 vs. Vladine Biosse 165
Keith Kozlin 170 vs. Eric Pinaretta 168
Joe Gardner 169 vs. Demarcus Clark TBA
Diego Pereira 142 vs. Ricardo Calazada 142
Aleksandra Magdziak 150 vs. Lopes Kali Reis 148
Dustin Reinhold 154 vs. Joel Nieves 153
Eric Estrada 195 vs. Keon Graham 200
Lopez-Concepcion Officials
Luis Pabon will serve as
referee for Saturday's featherweight title bout between WBO champ Juan
Manuel Lopez and Bernabe Concepcion. The three judges scoring the bout
will be Clark Sanmartino (USA), William Learch (USA ) and Nelson
Vasquez (Puerto Rico).
Hernan Marquez On Point
Photo: Rafael Soto / Zanfer Promotions Guaynabo, PR - Mexican challenger Hernan "Tyson" Marquez, worked out for the media at the Wilfredo Gomez Gym in advance of Saturday's fight against WBA interim super flyweight champion from the Philippines, Nonito "Flash" Donaire. The card billed as "The
Challenge" takes place at the Coliseo José Miguel Agrelot and is the
co-feature to the world championship fight between WBO Featherweight
champion and Puerto Rican Juan Manuel Lopez and Bernabe Concepcion,
another Philippine challenger. 15,000 fans are expected to attend the
bouts presented by Top Rank and PR Best Boxing and will be televised
internationally by Showtime and TV Azteca in Mexico by the House of
Boxing. "We are now almost ready. We're at
the weight we're just watching it right now. I'm desperate to get into
the ring and fight against Donaire, to get in there and take the belt
and give the public a great fight," said Marquez, who is trained by
Rudy Perez.
Photo: Rafael Soto / Zanfer Promotions Also in the gym was world champion Ivan Calderon, who gave Marquez a few tips to give him an advantage for his fight with Donaire as both the "Iron Boy" and "Tyson" are left-handed fighters. "It was a pleasure to know personally
a big name like Calderon, who showed me several important things that I
can apply during the fight with Nonito, he (Calderon) is a lefty like
myself and I can't thank him enough for the advice," said Marquez.
Despite Age, Guerrero Not Taking Casamayor Lightly
As he continues to prepare for the biggest bout of his career thus far, Robert Guerrero knows he will be in for a tough night on July 31 against Joel Casamayor. In fact, Guerrero has made some adjustments during camp in anticipation of the challenges Casmayor presents.
"Everything has to change over to left-handed," said Guerrero during today's media conference call. "It's about getting everything right and changing some things. I know we're making the right adjustments to beat Joel Casamayor."
While Guerrero will have the edge in youth, Casamayor has the experience. Despite Casmayor's age, Guerrero fully understands you can't underestimate such a veteran.
"You can never underestimate him," Guerrero said respectfully. "He's not one of the guys to take lightly, despite his age. Without a doubt, he will be the best fighter I have ever been in the ring with."
Casamayor Eyes Marquez Rematch After Guerrero Bout
Although former world champ Joel Casamayor has a July 31 date against fellow former world champ Robert Guerrero on the stacked Marquez-Diaz II undercard in Las Vegas, NV, he is determined to earn a rematch with Juan Manuel Marquez. Casamayor wants more than anything to avenge the eleventh round TKO loss at the hands of Marquez on 9/13/08, but he must first get through Guerrero. During Thursday's media conference call to discuss his upcoming bout against Guerrero, Casamayor mentioned the reason why he took this fight is to eventually get Marquez back in the ring.
"Whatever it takes to get Marquez back into the ring," said Casamayor through an interpreter.
But make no mistake, Casmayor is no way overlooking the young and hungry Guerrero. A loss to Guerrero and Casamayor knows his chances are gone.
"Without Guerrero there is no Marquez," explained Casamayor.
Green-Briggs Heading To New Venue?
IBO cruiserweight champ Danny Green
(29-3 26KOs) was initially set to defend his title against Paul Briggs
(26-3 18KOs) on July 21 at the Entertainment Centre in Sydney, New
South Wales, Austraila, but it appears there will be a change of venue.
Reports are surfacing that NSW (New South Wales) combat sport officials are having reservations about sanctioning the bout. As a result and to avoid any issues, Green is expected to announce a new venue soon, with the date remaining the same.
Jeffries Moves Closer To Title Shot
TONY JEFFRIES will move closer to his first professional title when he has his first eight rounder later this month.
The Olympic bronze medallist (7-0) meets in form Pole Michael Banbula (10-25-3) at Rainton Meadows Arena, Houghton-le-Spring and Friday July 23.
Banbula, 29, and based in Surrey has won his last three fights and ended the career of former British and WBU light-heavyweight champion Tony Oakey when he last boxed, in May.
Promoter Frank Maloney said: “This is all part of Tony’s learning and if he keeps progressing he could have an international ten rounder later this year or even his first title bout.
“Banbula is from a winning stable and although he win over Oakey was hardly noticed, beating Tony will put him on the map.
“I know Tony has only had seven fights, but I have no worries about putting him an eight rounder. If you’re good enough, you’re ready.”
Top of the bill is Stuey’s Hall (8-0-1) who makes the first defence of his British bantamweight title against Martin Power (21-5) in a rematch.
The
pair fought a torrid non-title war last September when Hall stopped the
former champion in the eighth round, Promoter Frank Maloney is ending
the season with a bumper bill, and a second title fight sees another
Londoner Matthew Marsh face Scot Kris Hughes for the vacant
Commonwealth super-bantamweight title.
In a third title fight, Nigel Wright (21-6) who conquered former world
champion Alex Arthur in his last battle contests the vacant English
light-welterweight crown against Wolverhampton’s Dean Harrison (16-3).
Tickets for the big night of action, price £30 and £70 are available from 0871 226 1508 or www.frankmaloney.com
Bika-Mendy Title Eliminator Set For Marquez-Diaz II Undercard
Sakio Bika (28-3-2 19KOs) and Jean Paul Mendy (28-0-1 16KOs) will battle each other in a super IBF super middleweight eliminator bout on the Marquez-Diaz II undercard at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, NV. The winner of the bout will become the #1 contender to face current IBF super middleweight champ Lucian Bute.
Although the bout will not be part of the PPV telecast, Golden Boy Promotions is in the process of trying to put the bout, along with others, on a free preview that would be available prior to the live PPV broadcast.BJ Flores Ready And Willing To Face Yoan Pablo Fernandez In Cruiserweight IBF Eliminator
LAS
VEGAS —Today the International Boxing Federation (IBF) ordered the
camps of top available contenders, Yoan Pablo Hernandez and BJ Flores
If a deal is not reached the bout will go to purse bid.
"I am very excited about facing Yoan Pablo Hernandez in this tremendous
opportunity to be the IBF mandatory challenger.” said Flores
“He is a very good fighter but I am 200% confident in victory. He will not beat me!!"
The potential of facing off with IBF cruiserweight champion Steve Cunningham has Flores’ mouth watering.
“it is very hard not to think about facing the best fighter in your
division when you feel it is so close. First things first with Yoan and
then we will have the opportunity of a lifetime to face the most
accomplished cruiserweight in the division, Steve Cunningham. This is
the break I have needed for a long time. A fair opportunity to face the
BEST in the division"
Even though Flores has been inactive he has stayed busy working as
sparring partners for World Light Heavyweight champion Chad Dawson and
former WBA Heavyweight champion John Ruiz. Flores also was the main
Sparring partner for current WBA Heavyweight champion David Haye before
his April 3rd title defense with Former champion Ruiz.
"Even though i have been out of the ring I am always working out and
always staying sharp. I put in a lot of hard work and hard rounds with
those three former champions and learned many valuable lessons in the
last year. People always are asking me when I am fighting again. The
time is NOW... Stay tuned!!
On the part about staying sharp and sparring and putting in rounds i
want to add in that "I have been lifting weights and doing ply metrics
over the last year to become more explosive. This year off has given my
body a chance to heal and I have no injuries and have become way
stronger and gained valuable experience being in the camp of three
different world champions. I will be in the best shape of my life to
make sure this fight doesn’t go the distance...I can’t wait!"
Flores of Las Vegas has a record of 24-0-1 with fifteen wins coming by
knockouts, can also be seen as a guest studio analyst on ESPN 2 Friday
Night Fights for which his next appearance will be July 16th for the
Zab Judah – Jose Armando Santa Cruz fight from Newark, New Jersey.
Maureen Shea Ready For Return On July 30
World-ranked
female featherweight Maureen Shea (14-2, 8 KOs) will face rugged
veteran Liliana Martinez (8-10, 4 KOs) in a six-round feature fight
with regional title implications July 30th at the Saratoga Springs City
Center in Saratoga Springs, New York. The fight, sanctioned by the NABF
for a regional 126 pound title, will be featured on Pugnacious
Promotions' annual "Night of Future Champions" summer fight card during
the beginning of racing at the historic Saratoga thoroughbred horse
track. Doors to this year’s boxing event will open earlier to showcase
some of the area’s best amateur boxers in preliminary bouts supporting
the pro fight card.
Shea, 29, first gained notoriety as Hillary Swank’s training partner as
the Oscar-winning actress prepared for her role in Clint Eastwood’s
“Million Dollar Baby” at Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn. Swank not only
trained and sparred regularly with Shea, but attended the Bronx
native’s amateur bouts in the New York area. A New York City fight
attraction since that time, Shea is now world-ranked by three
championship sanctioning bodies. In her most recent effort, Shea
defeated Norma Farris by third round TKO in a fight televised on the
Spanish-language channel Telefutura in May.
Martinez, 26, is a native of Dominican Republic and a 10-year veteran
of the ring. She has faced a number of world-class women – including
world champion Alesia Graf (24-1, 9 KOs), top-ranked Jenna Shiver
(11-4, 2 KOs) and Dominican prospect Katy Penelope Hernandez (12-0, 8
KOs) – and challenged Magdelena Dahlen (10-2, 3 KOs) for a European
title in November, 2009.
"I am so pleased to finally have Maureen on our card," said Lisa
Elovich. “Her reputation precedes her as the ‘Real Million Dollar
Baby.’ She’s a great addition to our card featuring young local
prospects.”
Guilderland, New York lightweight prospect Mike Faragon (11-0, 5 KOs)
will face Pawtucket, Rhode Island's Eddie Soto (12-1, 4 KOs) in the
eight-round main event. Also appearing on the card are Troy, New York
light heavyweight
Amateur boxers include Saratoga Springs junior-welterweight Mike Barcia
and super heavyweight Josh Dulmer, plus the rematch of the region’s
amateur welterweight bout of the year between Albany’s Amir Iman and
Troy’s Ray Velez.
Tickets and VIP tables, including dinner by Brindisi's Restaurant and
table service throughout the evening, are available from Pugnacious
Promotions at 518-527-0160 or www.pugnaciouspromotions.com.
Mezaache, Djelkhir To Make US debuts On Tua-Barrett Undercard
On
Saturday July 17th Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing presents T-N-T at the
Tropicana, when WBO #2 rated heavyweight contender David Tua (51-3-1,
43KO's) takes on former heavyweight title challenger Monte Barrett
(34-9, 20KO's) live on PPV at the Tropicana Casino and Resort in
Atlantic City, NJ. Featured on the undercard, making their U.S. debuts,
are two of France's top prospect's, European
Lightweight Champion Anthony Mezaache (18-5-3, 4KO's) and the 2008
French Olympic silver medalist, Khedafi Djelkhir (6-0, 5KO's).
"I
saw Khedafi fight in France when we had Vinny Maddalone fight Jean Marc
Mormeck and I was very impressed," stated Joe DeGuardia, CEO of Star
Boxing. "Both Mezaache and Khedafi have very fan friendly styles, and
know how to excite an audience every time they step into the ring. We
are very much looking forward to showcasing both of these guys in their
U.S. debuts for the Atlantic City fans, and for the rest of those
watching on PPV throughout the United States and Puerto Rico, and the
other locations where the bout will air around the world, including in their home country of France whereby their fans can watch them on Orange TV."
Djelkhir was a two-time Olympian for France, and after winning a silver medal at the 2008 games, he turned pro on March 13th of 2009, scoring a first round TKO over Krastan Krastanov. Since that time Djelkhir has strung together five more impressive victories, including four by way of knockout. The 26-year-old prospect will square off against Jorge Cordero in a six round featherweight showdown.
McBride To Face New Opponent
Mike Tyson-conqueror Kevin “The Clones Colossus” McBride, former Irish heavyweight champion and 1992 Olympian, returns to the ring Saturday night (July 10) for the first time in more than 2 ½ years against veteran Zack Page in an 8-round bout at Mid-Hudson Civic Center in Poughkeepsie, New York.
The 37-year-old McBride (34-6-1, 29 KOs), fighting out of Boston, is best known for knocking Tyson into retirement. The 6-6, 280-pound Irishman stopped Tyson in the sixth-round of their June 11, 2005 fight in Washington D.C. McBride fought three times after that, his last October 6, 2007 against Andrew Golota, and he’s been inactive ever since.
“Everything in training camp has been as good as we had hoped,” McBride reported his training camp in New York City. “I’m looking forward to fighting again. It’s a good start. I want to win and then get right back in the ring again. If I can put a few good wins together, I hope to be able to have an opportunity to fulfill my dream of becoming the first Irish-born heavyweight champion of the world. I’d like to fight again in Ireland, too.
“First, though, I have to take care of business Saturday night. I do want to send my condolences to Eddie and Tony McLoughlin (McBride’s new advisors). Their brother, Jimmy, recently passed away. He was going to go to my fight.”
Page (20-29-2), who has replaced Robert Hawkins, is a veteran sporting wins against former world champion Lou Del Valle, as well as Cisse Salif and Jeremy Bates.
“The change of opponent doesn’t bother me at all,” McBride said. “It’s really all about how I perform Saturday night. I’m not concerned about going eight rounds, if needed. The more rounds, the better, for me to get some of the rust off. It’s just going to be nice fighting again.”
IBF Approves Bute-BrinkleyInterBox is proud to announce that the International Boxing Federation (IBF) has approved the staging of an IBF mandatory title bout between top contender Jesse Brinkley (35-0-0, 22 KO) and IBF Super Middleweight champion Lucian Bute
Undefeated in his professional boxing career, adopted Quebecer Lucian Bute is already in training for this his 6th consecutive title defense bout. Although Lucian will be taking some short time off very soon, he intends to profit from a long and hard preparation and to be 100% ready as always come October 15th.
“At this level it is very dangerous to take any opponent lightly. Brinkley surprised many experts during his last bout. He fights very bravely in the ring and I expect him to be fully prepared and to give it his all in the Bell Centre ring” declares Lucian Bute.
“This fight against Jesse is a road that Lucian has to cross in order to keep his title” confirms InterBox President Mr. Jean Bedard. “Every champion has obligations that they have to fulfill. For this our 3rd event of the year, we will work to integrate other recognized headlining boxers onto the card to present another quality event to our fans. I am convinced this Gala will set the tables for a major challenge for Lucian at the end of 2010 or beginning of 2011”.
"I am beyond excited to fight Lucian Bute for his IBF super middleweight championship. This is something I have dreamed about my whole life, and I feel that it is long over due. I know I’m going in as the underdog, but there is no doubt in my mind that I’m bringing that belt back with me to the United States", says Jesse Brinkley.
"This is a tremendous opportunity for Jesse, and we are so excited to have him competing for a world championship. He has worked his butt off, and there is no one more deserving than Jesse. He is on a 9 fight winning streak, and with how focused and determined he is I think Bute will be Jesse's 10th victory in a row. Bute is the popular favorite in this fight, but in boxing there is no better story than the underdog coming in and knocking off the champ, and I think we have a recipe for that” declares Brinkley Promoter, Tommy Lane.
Tickets will go on sale soon for this Gala. Stay tuned!
Officials Named For Donaire-Marquez
When Nonito Donaire and Herman "Tyson Marquez step into the ring this Saturday July 10th at Coliseo Jose Miguel Agrelot in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Roberto Ramirez Sr will be the third man in the ring, Judges will be Ignacio Robles (Panama), Cesar Ramos (Puerto Rico ) and Raul Nieves (Puerto Rico), fight supervisor is Miguel Prado (Panamá).
Maccarinelli Predicts He Will KO Frenkel
Enzo Maccarinelli says he feels like a fresh fighter now he has won the European cruiserweight title. And the big punching Welshman is looking forward to knocking out challenger Alexander Frenkel on September 18 at the LG Arena, Birmingham.
Maccarinelli faced had a tough time when he lost two consecutive fights by stoppage, but he’s bounced back in stunning style with three first round knockouts.
The last of those saw him halt Alexander Kotlobay in mere seconds in St Petersburg to lift the European crown.
And he says Frenkel – another Eastern European – will get more of the same.
“There was a time when I thought I might have to go to Germany to fight him,” said former WBO cruiserweight champion Maccarinelli.
“Fair play to Frank for bringing the fight to the UK, but I will beat Frenkel wherever we fight.
“The way I’m feeling at the moment, I don’t think anyone in the world can cope with my power.
“I had a bad run and I understand why people said I should retire. But I’m back to my best now. Something just clicked in the gym, and I’m knocking people out the way that I used to.
“I want to get this fight out of the way and then I’m going after a world title. I miss being a world champion and I’m desperate for my old belt back.
“Frenkel has got a great record on paper, and he’s got a very high KO percentage so it should be an exciting fight.
“But I’ve beaten far better fighters than he has. He’s been over-protected in Germany, and when he comes to England I will expose him.”
Faragon, Shea Will Headline "Night of Future Champions"Pugnacious Promotions will host the annual “Night of Future Champions” July 30th at the Saratoga Springs City Center, Saratoga Springs, New York. In two feature fights, undefeated lightweight prospect Mike Faragon (11-0, 5 KOs) takes another step forward in an eight-rounder against Eddie Soto (12-1, 4 KOs); while world-ranked female featherweight Maureen Shea (14-2, 8 KOs) faces rugged veteran Liliana Martinez (8-10, 4 KOs) in a six-round fight for an NABF title. The two feature bouts will top off a card of pro prelims and several amateur bouts at the historic Saratoga thoroughbred horse track.
“I am thrilled to have Maureen Shea and Mike Faragon as feature fights on the July 30th card in Saratoga” said promoter Lisa Elovich. “Maureen’s reputation precedes her as the real ‘million dollar baby’ and Mike is an undefeated young prospect and local fan favorite with a bright future. Fans are chomping at the bit to see these two fights.”
Also appearing on the card are Troy light heavyweight and former All-American Shawn Miller (2-1, 1 KO), Delmar lightweight Zach Smith (3-1) and other fighters to be announced. Amateur boxers include Saratoga Springs junior Mike Barcia and super heavyweight Josh Dulmer, plus the rematch of the region’s amateur welterweight bout of the year between Albany’s Amir Iman and Troy’s Ray Velez.
Tickets and VIP tables, including dinner by Brindisi’s Restaurant and table service throughout the evening, are available from Pugnacious Promotions at 518-527-0160 or www.pugnaciouspromotions.com.
Catching Up With John Molina Jr. & Promoter Dan GoossenSherman Oaks, CA - In just two days
NABO #9-rated John Molina, Jr. (20-1,16 KOs) will square off against
undefeated "Hammerin" Hank Lundy (18-0-1, 10 KOs) as the 12-round main
event on the "Let Freedom Ring" card presented live on ESPN2 Friday
Night Fights.
The event is promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and
Sports, Inc. (CES) at the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, R.I. with
the Lundy-Molina bout promoted in association with Goossen Tutor. Check
your local ESPN2 listings for time.
Click on the links below to see what John Molina, Jr. and his promoter Dan Goossen have to say on the upcoming challenge:
Molina, Jr. takes on Lundy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yh8D0gr9lbI&feature=related
Dan Goossen Breaks it down: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7pqnS1CgYo
Goossen Tutor Promotions Youtube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/goossentutorboxing
Antonio Escalante Returns August 6 In El Paso
After being sidelined by an injury, world ranked contender Antonio Escalante (23-2 14KOs) is set to return to action against Edel Ruiz (34-22-4 25KOs) on Friday, August 6. The bout will take place at the Don Haskins Convention Center in El Paso, TX and be part of Golden Boy Promotions' "Solo Boxeo Tecate" card, which is televised via Telefutura.
Stars Coming Out For "Let Freedom Ring"The stars will be out this week for “Let Freedom Ring,” headlined by the 10-round NABO lightweight title fight between champion, WBO # 7 rated “Hammerin’” Hank Lundy (18-0-1, 10 KOs), and challenger, John Molina, Jr. (20-1, 6 KOs), live on ESPN Friday Night Fights from the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, RI. Among the boxing luminaries scheduled to attend “Let Freedom Ring,” presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc. (CES), are 5-time world champion Vinny “The Pazmanian Devil” Paz, 3-time Fight of the Year participant “Irish” Micky Ward and 1960 Olympic gold medalist Dr. Wilbert “Skeeter” McClure.
A close friend of promoter Jimmy Burchfield, Paz is a fixture at most CES fights, while Ward and his brother Dicky Eklund, after whom the movie “The Fighter” (December release) is about, train New England super middleweight champion “Irish” Joey McCreedy (11-4-2, 6 KOs, also from Lowell (MA)). McCreedy puts his title on the line against his friend and stable-mate, former University of Rhode Island football player Vladine Biosse (6-0, 4 KOs), in the 8-round co-feature. McClure roomed with Muhammad Ali (Cassius Clay back then) at the 1960 Olympics in Rome, where they both captured gold medals, “Skeeter” in the middleweight division.
Other stars expected at Twin River include world-rated light heavyweight Joey “KO Kid” Spina, 3-time world champion Jaime “The Hurricane” Clampitt, former world cruiserweight title challenger “Iceman” John Scully (walking McCreedy into the ring), and former NABF light welterweight titlist “Sucra” Ray Oliveira (training Dustin Reinhold). Rhode Island natives and resident, 2004 U.S. Olympian Jason “Big Six” Estrada, will be in the house supporting his brother, Eric Estrada.
Quincy (MA) welterweight Aleksandra Magdziak Lopes (2-1, 1 KO) will be out for revenge in a 6-round rematch against the only opponent to defeat her, Providence’s Kali Reis (2-0 1 KO), who won a hotly-contested 4-round decision in their first meeting.
Providence firefighter Eric Estrada makes his long-awaited pro debut in a 4-round match against cruiserweight Keon Graham (2-2). Estrada was perfect as an amateur with a 6-0 record, including victories in the New England Golden Gloves Tournament and Rocky Marciano Tournament.
Also slated to be in action in 4-round bouts are Warwick (RI) super middleweight Keith Kozlin (5-1, 3 KOs) vs. New Bedford’s (MA) Eric Pinaretta (2-3, 2 KOs), Woonsocket (RI) super middleweight Joe Gardner (4-1-1, 1 KO) vs. Demarcus “Main Event” Clark (1-2, 1 KO), Lincoln super lightweight Diego Pereira (4-0, 2 KOs) vs. Richard Calazada (2-1, 1 KO), and Fall River (MA) middleweight Reinhold (1-1, 1 KO) vs. Joel Nieves (0-2). All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets for “Let Freedom Ring,” priced at $35.00, $50.00, $75.00 and $100.00, are available to purchase by calling CES (401.724.2253/2254), going online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at Twin River’s Players Club booth at Twin River, or any TicketMaster location.
Contact CES (401.724.2253/2254/www.cesboxing.com) or the Twin River Event Center (877.82.RIVER/ www.twinriver.com) for more information. Doors open at 5:30 PM/ET, first bout at 6:30 PM/ET.
(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Let Freedom Ring.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied at all times by an adult and they must enter through the West entrance.)
Casimero Defends Against Garcia July 24, Omar Chavez On Undercard
It was announced during a press conference in Los Mochis, Mexico that interim WBO junior flyweight Johnriel Casimero will defend his title against Ramon Garcia July 24 in Mexico in the main event of a card presented by Zanfer Promotions.
The co-feature will see a rematch between Omar Chavez (22-0-1 15KOs) and Jose Arelis Lopez (7-9-2 5KOs). In their first encounter, Chavez scored a six round unanimous decision on 3/20/10.
Don Chargin To Re-Join Golden Boy Promotions
LOS ANGELES, July 7 - Golden Boy Promotions is pleased to announce that Hall of Fame promoter and matchmaker Don Chargin will renew his affiliation with Golden Boy Promotions as a special consultant and advisor effective immediately.
"I am thrilled to have Don back at Golden Boy," said Golden Boy Promotions CEO, Richard Schaefer. "His advice and guidance has been and will continue to be very valuable to us. His Hall of Fame credentials and track record speak for themselves. Golden Boy has recently expanded its network and venue deals and as a result has started to sign some of the most promising young fighters and Don will be involved on a daily basis in the guidance and development of these young fighters' careers. His knowledge and expertise in this industry will assist in building the younger generation of fighters of today into the future champions of tomorrow."
Juanma-Concepcion Final Presser
Photo: Joel Perez / PRBBP
WBO featherweight champ Juan Manuel Lopez and challenger Bernabe Concepcion pose during Wednesday's final press conference for their bout Saturday night at the Coliseo Jose Miguel Agrelot in Hatyo Rey, Puerto Rico and live on Showtime.
Photo: Joel Perez / PRBBP
Hernan Marquez and interim WBA super flyweight champ Nonito Donaire will meet in the co-featured bout of the evening.
Photo: Joel Perez / PRBBP
Jonathan Oquendo and Eden Sonsona will do battle in a ten round super bantamweight featured undercard bout.
Mike Jones Training Camp News & Notes
As unbeaten Mike Jones, of Philadelphia, PA, who is 21-0, 17 K0s, and ranked as high as No. 2 welterweight in the world by the WBO behind champion Manny Pacquiao, prepares to defend his NABA and NABO titles against Puerto Rico’s Irving Garcia (17-4-3, 8 KOs) on July 9 at Atlantic City Boardwalk Hall, he has had his best-ever training camp.
MIKE JONES COMMENTS• On his training camp: “I’ve had a great camp and I’m in terrific shape. I’m ready. As each fight goes by, I get in better and better shape. I’m smart. I take nobody for granted. When it’s time to shine, I’m gonna shine.”
•His feelings about fighting for a world title (possibly before the end of the year): “It would be a dream come true. I’ve been preparing for this for years. You just want to get a piece of the pie. I’m ready.”
• On his goals: “My No. 1 goal is to be No. 1, nothing less. I’m getting closer but not there yet; not where I want to be. My ultimate goal: World Champion.”
• On staying at welterweight: “I can make that weight (147 pounds) easily. I want the advantages on my side: my height (6’1”) and speed. I’m still learning to use the height as a big advantage over other welterweights.”
• On how he got started in boxing: “As a teenager, I liked basketball and could dunk. I was above average, but not above above average to make it to the NBA so I wanted to try something else. The other sports weren’t rough enough. My dad took me to Joe Frazier’s gym. I picked it up pretty good. I was determined and had a good work ethic. They threw me into my first amateur fight one month after I started and I lost. It made me work harder and I stopped my next 11-12 foes. I eventually sparred with the guy who first beat me and I beat him up pretty good. I had 50-60 amateur fights.”
• On his style: “I have power like Tyson (“taught to me by Smoke [Joe Frazier] and Marvis Frazier as an amateur; I was taught how to bang early on: just plant my feet on the floor and bang “); a jab like Ali (“Snap that jab and then throw combinations off that”) and ring tricks like Roy Jones. I have long, long arms, am tall for a welterweight and fast. I’m pretty good at blocking a guy’s shot. I like to box. I look to be smart. If I see a weakness I like to go in and pounce.”
• His favorite fighters: Muhammad Ali (“He always kept popping that jab”); Mike Tyson (“I like his ferociousness & quickness); Roy Jones; Pernell “Sweat Pea” Whitaker; Evander Holyfield (“Great combinations”); Oscar De La Hoya (“He’d snap that good jab of his.”)
• On his increased media exposure: “I’m happy to be getting so much positive feedback. But there’s always going to be somebody who hasn’t seen me fight before that I want to look good for. Like they say, you only get one chance to make a good first impression. I want to do that every time I fight.”
• On who he’d like to fight in the future: “Anybody with a world championship belt would be a dream fight. That’s what I’ve worked so hard for… to be recognized as one of the best fighters in world.”
• On a future fight with Floyd Mayweather: “It would be a dream come true. He’s the man. He always works so hard. Look at his stomach, how ripped it is. I keep working hard every day to get that. Give me 10% of what Mayweather has. I’d work his body and keep working the left side and hope he gets tired. You can’t touch him on his right side. He snaps that great jab, up and down. He waits for you to open up and he’ll counter. You must counter his counter. I’d have to be in the same tremendous shape like him.”
• On a future fight with Manny Pacquiao: “I’d keep Pacquiao at the end of everything. He jumps in and counter punches. It’s hard to counter punch 3’s and 4’s but you have to be patient.”
• On a future fight with WBC titlist Andre Berto (which has been mentioned by Berto’s promoter as a possibility for the fall): “Great talent, very fast…brings a lot of power. I’d try to use my height. Mix it up. When he throws exchanges he leaves himself open. I see myself catching him and knocking him out.”
• On his soft-spoken nature: “I’m humble and don’t like to brag or boast. But on fight night, I let my fists do the talking. My fists are rather loud.”
VAUGHN JACKSON, JONES’ TRAINER
• On training camp: “ Mike looks great in training. He’s on fire. It’s hard to find sparring partners for him. No one wants to get in there and take a beating. Mike shows no mercy.”
• On Irving Garcia, his July 9 opponent: “We’ve seen tape on Garcia. He’s a nice counter-puncher, with a good right hand but he’s too laid back. Mike’s too tall, too young. Youth (Jones) will overwhelm him. I’d be surprised if it goes past the 5th (round). It’s Mike’s time.”
• On Jones’ future: “We want to get past Garcia and then see what’s out there for the future we’re aware what position Mike’s in and we want to keep him busy. He’s getting better each fight. He belongs where he’s at (in the ratings).”
“I think this is a very good time for Mike Jones. It’s his time to shine. He’s at his peak right now. It’s like the dominoes are finally starting to fall.”
“Mike’s not as big, namewise, as Floyd Mayweather and Manny Paquiao, but he hasn’t yet had the same great opportunities. When he gets the opportunity, he’ll be great.”
J RUSSELL PELTZ, JONES’ PROMOTER
• On one reason why Jones has moved up quickly in the various boxing organizations’ ratings: “Even though I didn’t know it at the time, that weekend (on April 17 that Jones last fought) there was a convention (in Atlantic City) of the four world sanctioning bodies. So everybody was at Mike’s fight, and everybody was impressed. He shot up (the ratings) after that fight.”
• On Jones’ outlook: “He’s a young guy and he’s in a hurry. He believes he’s ready for anybody.”
• On Jones’ next fight: “If he beats Garcia, he’s not going to fight [Manny] Pacquiao or [Floyd] Mayweather next. I don’t see that happening. He doesn’t have the name recognition yet. But somebody like [WBC welterweight champ Andre] Berto? That’s another story. I could see a Berto fight being made, or a fight with the WBO’s No. 1 contender, Kell Brock. The IBF champion is Jan Zavek. That’s a doable fight, too.”
• On the July 9 fight vs Irving Garcia: To me this is the fight. Not only do I consider it Mike’s toughest fight, but I consider it the last before something really substantial. If he doesn’t stub his toe against Irving Garcia, he’s on the doorstep.”
DOC NOWICKI, JONES’ CO-MANAGER
• On training camp: “Mike’s looking excellent and he’s in great shape. He’s been working on his combinations and the usual tricks of the trade. He’s ready and can’t wait for the fight.”
• On his July 9 fight: “I don’t think the fight will go the distance but Mike will get some excellent work out of it. He likes to fight. He’s not looking for an easy fight.”
• On the future: “There’s nobody we would be afraid to put Mike in against now. We’d welcome a fight against Andre Berto (WBC titlist). We want to fight anyone above Mike in the ratings.”
JIM WILLIAMS, JONES’ CO-MANAGER & CUTMAN
• On Jones’ training: “Training camp was great. It always is with Mike. He’s a workhorse in the gym. When you think he’s done with his long workout, he starts over his routine again. He goes on and on. He’s a real gym rat and real serious. He’s always in great shape.”
• On Irving Garcia his opponent: “Probably the most skilled fighter Mike has fought. Garcia’s a tough, rugged guy but doesn’t have a great chin. When Mike sets up his jab and touches his chin, it’ll be over within 5 or 6 rounds. Not an easy night though.”
• On Jones’ future: “Mike will definitely be a world champion. But he says he wants to be more than a champion, he wants to be one of the best of all time. He is very focused and has both feet on the ground."
Lara Replaces Escobedo, To Face Correa July 9 On "Solo Boxeo Tecate"
LOS ANGELES, July 7 - When one door closes, another opens, and after lightweight contender Vicente Escobedo was forced to withdraw from his bout against Raymundo Beltran due to viral infection, unbeaten Cuban standout Erislandy Lara eagerly agreed to step up to the plate at Denver's indoor Softball Country Pavilion on Friday, July 9 to battle Puerto Rico's William Correa in the 10 round main event of TeleFutura's "Sólo Boxeo Tecate."
In the co-featured bout of the evening, Denver's own Ricky Lopez looks to keep his unbeaten record intact when he takes on Florida standout Derrick Wilson in a six round junior featherweight bout.
Lara vs. Correa, which headlines a night of world-class boxing presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Frankie Sanchez Promotions, is sponsored by Cerveza Tecate. Doors open at 6:00pm MT, the first bell rings at 7:30pm MT (amateur fights start at 6:30 PM) and the TeleFutura broadcast begins at 12:00am ET / PT.
Tickets, priced at $20, $35, $50 and $75, are on sale now at the Softball Country Pavilion, Champions MMA and Fitness in Parker, Colorado; Knockouts Haircuts For Men in Centennial and Parker, Colorado; and by calling 303-378-5014. Tickets may also be purchased at Softball Country Pavilion the night of the event beginning at 3:00pm MT
A Three-Time National and 2005 World Champion as an amateur, Guantanamo, Cuba native Erislandy Lara (11-0, 6 KO's) was on his way to a Gold Medal in the 2008 Olympics before he defected and began chasing his dream of a world title in the pros. Now perfect in 11 fights, Lara has been more impressive than ever in 2010, stopping Grady Brewer and decisioning Danny Perez in his last two bouts. On July 9, he'll look to notch his third win of the year.
Yauco, Puerto Rico's William "Chino" Correa (8-3, 8 KO's) approaches his fight career with a simple philosophy: get him before he gets you. With each of his eight wins coming by knockout in three rounds or less, Correa is gets it done most of the time. This Friday, he looks for his ninth knockout win.
23-year
old Ricky Lopez (7-0, 2 KO's) has made a lot of noise on the Southern
California circuit, where he has won four in a row on Golden Boy
Promotions' "Fight Night Club" cards. Now taking his show back to his
hometown of Denver, Lopez plans on giving his local fans a night to
remember on July 9.
Fort Myers, Florida's Derrick Wilson (6-1-2, 2 KO's) made a huge impact
on the fight scene last July when he handed unbeaten Charles Huerta his
first loss via a 59 second knockout. Since then, Wilson has continued
to battle tough opposition, most recently scoring a four round decision
win over Samuel Sanchez in May. On July 9, he hopes to send another
hot prospect crashing to defeat.
For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GoldenBoyBoxing or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing.
New Opponent For Nakash Tough nosed cruiserweight spoiler,
Victor Barragan will now be the opponent for world ranked and
undefeated Cruiserweight Ran Nakash on Wednesday night July 14th at The
Arena in South Philadelphia.
The original opponent, former WBA Light Heavyweight champion Lou Del Valle was supposed to come to Philadelphia to get his medical examinations last week but never stepped on his plane from Florida where he had been training.
The card is promoted by No Limits Promotions in association with Joey Eye Boxing and will be the inaugural fight card of the new Comcast Boxing Series.
Barragan, twenty-eight years of Oxnard, California has a record of 11-5 with three knockouts.
In the co-feature, 2008 Olympic Gold Medalist, Felix Diaz (5-0, 3 KO’s) will take grizzled veteran and fan favorite Emanuel Augustus.
Augustus, 38-32-6 with twenty knockouts and has fought just about everyone from the Lightweight division during his sixteen year career.
The Thirty-five year old has been in the ring with former world champions such as Jesus Chavez, John John Molina, Floyd Mayweather, Leonard Dorin, Leavander Johnson and David Diaz.
Tickets for this memorable night of boxing are priced at $100, $75, and $50 and can be purchased at following locals:
Peltz Boxing (2501 Brown Street) 215- 765 -0922
The Arena (7 West Ritner St.) 267-687-7560
Joey Eye 267-304-9399
Don Elbaum 610-933-7510
The Arena is located at 7 West Ritner Street in Philadelphia
Jones-Garcia Weigh-In Open To The Public
The weigh-in for Friday night's bout between Mike Jones and Irving Garcia will be open to the public. Scheduled to begin at 5pm local time on Thursday, July 8, the event will take place at the Atrium (6th Floor) inside Bally's Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ. Jones vs Garcia will be the featured bout on Showtime's "ShoBox" series this Friday, July 9.
Tickets priced at $50, $75 and $100 are on sale at the Atlantic City Boardwalk Hall, Peltz Boxing Promotions (215-765-0922) and all Ticketmaster outlets (800-736-1420). They also can be purchased at Boardwalk Hall and online at www.Ticketmaster.com.
Cauthen vs Kaddour Headlines August 27 Card In Dover Dover Downs Hotel & Casino will
host the IBF North American Middleweight Title Fight as part of the
Friday Night Fight series on August 27 in the Rollins Center ballroom.
Fights begin at 7:30 p.m. Terrance “Heat” Cauthen (35-6, 9 KOs) of
Trenton, N.J., will face off against Ahmad “Babyface” Kaddour (22-2-1,
9 KOs) of Aarhus, Denmark, in this long-awaited, 12-round match.
An action-packed under card features a heavyweight bout with massive Amir “Hardcore” Mansour of Wilmington, Del., who will re-enter the ring with a stellar 9-0 record, 6 KOs. Mansour intends to prove his talent when he crosses the ropes again for the first time since 2001. “Nobody can match my speed, my size. I’ve got a Lamborghini body, blessed with good genes. I am in better shape now than at 28.”
The night will continue with great talent on the road to championships including middleweight “Mighty” Mike Tiberi (13-1, 6 KOs), of Smyrna, Del., currently on a seven-win streak, and relentless super bantamweight Ronica “Sweet Trouble” Jeffrey of Brooklyn, N.Y., undefeated at 3-0 with 1 KO, in what promises to be another exciting female bout. Big man cruiserweight Dan “Bada Bing” Biddle of Hockessin, Del., returns to Dover with 3 wins – all by knock out – and 1 loss. Biddle TKO’d Eddie Otts in 2:04 minutes of the opening round in last February’s sold out show at Dover Downs Hotel & Casino.
Rounding out the card are light heavyweight Anthony “Caputo” Smith, undefeated (4-0, 3 KOs), light middleweight “Rockin” Ryan Belasco (11-4-3, 3 KOs), light welterweight Juan Oscar “El Bandito” Vasquez (4-1), super middleweight southpaw Gabriel “GPHAM” Pham, undefeated (3-0, 2 KOs), and newcomer featherweight “Jolt’n” Joey Tiberi, Jr., who, in his debut fight on July 2 in Vineland, N.J., won by knockout against Javier Dennis.
Tickets range from $30 to $95 and may be purchased now by visiting www.doverdowns.com or calling VIP Services at 800-711-5882. Members of the U.S. Military Armed Forces will receive a ten percent discount with military ID (limit four tickets); military discount tickets must be purchased at the VIP Services box office at Dover Downs Hotel & Casino. Will call will be open 4:30 – 8:30 p.m., and doors will open at 6:30 p.m.
Viloria Out To Prove He Still Has It
Coming off a twelfth round TKO loss to Carlos Tamara (1/23/10) in which he also lost his IBF junior flyweight title, Brian Viloria (26-3 15KOs) will look to steer his career back on the path to the top and prove he's not done yet. The opportunity to do so comes this Saturday when he faces Omar Soto (19-6-2 13KOs) in a ten round flyweight bout at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City, Metro Manila, Philippines.
During Wednesday's final press conference, Vilora was feeling confident and declared himself ready for Soto.
"I’m so ready for Saturday," said Viloria. "I want to prove that I’m still at the top. That my heart is still in it."
Mike Jones Ready To Step Up
Unbeaten welterweight contender Mike Jones (21-0 17KOs) returns to action this Friday, July 9 to headline a Showtime televised card against Irving Garcia (17-4-3 8KOs) at the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ. A win against a credible opponent in Garcia will move Jones closer to a world title bout. Currently ranked #7/WBC, #3/WBA, #7/IBF and #2/WBO, the Phildelphia fighter says he's ready for the next stage.
"I'm ready to step up," Jones told The Philadelphia Inquirer. "The mental preparation has been there for years."
Marquez Arrives In Puerto Rico
Photo: Rafael Soto
Hernan Marquez arrives in Puerto Rico ahead of his bout against interim WBA super flyweight champ Nonito Donaire. The bout will be the co-feature to the featherweight title bout between WBO champ Juan Manuel Lopez and Bernabe Concepcion and will be televised via Showtime.
Commonwealth Title At Stake For Mitrevski vs Murray
PETER MITREVSKI JNR is confident of shocking Martin Murray after being whipped into shape by Anthony Mundine Jnr.
The Aussie (23-6-1) challenges the St Helens man (19-0) for the vacant Commonwealth middleweight title at Bolton Arena on Friday July 16.
Mitrevski Jnr, 30, has spent the last two months locked away in Sydney sparring with Australia’s number one fighter, Mundine Jnr.
Mitrevski Jnr said: “My training has been going exceptionally well. I’ve had plenty of sparring with Anthony Mundine Jnr so I am well prepared.
“I have no problems going to England and I just wish the football season was on because I want to see a Premier League game live.
“If I win this and impress I am sure Hatton Promotions will want me back again and I can persuade Ricky Hatton to take me to a Manchester City match although I doubt he’ll be my friend if I beat his fighter.”
Mitrevski Jnr has only fought once outside Australia, back in December 2006 when he ventured to Germany and was stopped in eight rounds by current IBF world champion, Sebastian Sylvester.
He added: “I have watched lots of Murray’s fights and he is a very skilful fighter with a good jab and he goes well to the body.
“However, he is untested and has never been more than eight rounds. I am going to take him into deep water and see whether he sinks or swims.”
In the world class top of the bill battle Hyde’s Matthew Hatton (39-4-2) risks his European welterweight crown against Ukraine’s Yuri Nuzhnenko (30-1-1).
Bury box office star Scott Quigg (18-0) meets tough Gavin Reid (6-6-1) for the vacant English super-bantamweight title.
Commonwealth light-middleweight champion Craig Watson (17-3) steps back down to welterweight to face a selected opponent in a ten rounder.
The star studded undercard includes several top Hatton Promotions prospects including Anthony Crolla (17-2), Matty Askin (6-0), Craig Lyon (10-0), Rhys Roberts (9-0), Jez Wilson (6-1) and Navid Iran (1-0).
Tickets are available from 0161 775 7500
http://www.ticketline.co.uk/tickets/13246636/a-night-of-championship-box.
Prices are £30, £50, £75 Ringside and £95 VIP Ringside.
Macklin Preparing For Barker At Roach's Wild Card Gym
Former
European Middleweight Champion Matthew Macklin says working at Freddie
Roach's gym will help him in his fight against Darren Barker. Macklin
will face his big London rival on September 18 at the LG Arena in
Birmingham. But the Brummie will do much of his preparation thousands
of miles away at the world famous Wild Card Gym in LA. He's just one of
many fighters who have turned to top coach Roach for help down the
years. "Going to Freddie's has helped me become a better fighter," said
Macklin.
"I wouldn't want to put a figure on it, but when I was preparing for my
last fight (Macklin was ruled out with a broken nose) I'd never felt in
better shape and that was about five weeks before I was due in the ring.
"The sparring out there is fantastic.
"Over here you can pay guys good money, but they try and look after
themselves, and unless the are training for a fight, they're not
necessarily in the best shape.
"But at Freddie's everyone is hungry, everyone has a fight on the horizon, and it makes a difference when you spar.
"You know when you get in the ring you have left no stone unturned. I'm
going to have had the best sparring possible for the Barker fight, and
that's going to make a hell of a difference.
The European title is coming back to Birmingham."
Daws Ready For Williams
Morden’s
British Light Welterweight Champion Lenny Daws is brimming with
confidence ahead of his title defence against unbeaten English Champion
Steve Williams this Friday night (9th July) at York Hall, Bethnal Green.
The 12 round British Championship contest between the two champions
will be headlining the Matchroom Sport in association with Hennessy
Sports event which will be shown live on Sky Sports HD from 10pm.
Lenny Daws said “Big respect to Steve for stepping up and taking this
opportunity at such an early stage in his career, but I will be out to
avoid the disappointment of my last fight against former European
champion Jason Cook in which the judges scored the contest as a draw. I
still believe after watching the fight again I done more than enough to
claim outright victory”
“Rob McCracken and myself have watched Steve’s last fight and have
adapted my training to suit. I know it is going to be hot and draining
in the ring on Friday but as always my fitness levels are high and
sparring has been great with the likes of Lee Purdy and former unbeaten
Commonwealth Champion John O’Donnell”
Daws who regained his British title in September 2009 after losing it
back in 2007 believes his ring experience will be too much for
challenger Steve Williams and will be looking to end the fight within
the distance and take it out of the judge’s hands.
Lenny Daws added “I’m expecting him to come and give it a real go, but
I feel with my experience and talent on the night I’m going to be too
much for him to handle. I’m confident that I will be going home with
the belt.”
Also on the undercard Hennessy Sports prospects Bradley Evans (Royston)
and Phill Fury (Lancaster) will be back in action, both of whom will be
looking to add another win to their unbeaten records.
Tickets are priced £30 (unreserved) and £50 (ringside) and are available from Matchroom Sport on 01277 359900
Maloney Inks New Deal With Sky Sports Molitor-Booth Update
FRANK
MALONEY has continued his excellent relationship with Sky Sports by
signing a new two year contract with the broadcaster. Maloney and Sky
have enjoyed a successful working partnership for nearly 20 years and
the new deal starts in September. All future Maloney’s shows will be
screened live on Saturday night’s and he said: “I am delighted to
continue my relationship with Sky. “They have a top class boxing team
from top to bottom and you would go a long way to find a more
professional bunch.
“It is a massive boost for boxing in general that they have decided to
move our sport from Friday to Saturday and proves how committed they
are.”
Maloney has developed a heap of world champions during his time with
Sky including former undisputed world heavyweight champion Lennox
Lewis, Scott Harrison, David Haye and Paul Ingle,
And with Jason Booth and Rendall Munroe primed for world title
challenges in the autumn, Maloney is confident that list will grow
before the end of the year.
Booth’s challenge for Steve Molitor’s IBF world super-bantamweight
title at Rainton Meadows Arena, Houghton-le-Spring on September 11 will
be shown live on Sky Sports.
Munroe is to challenge Japan’s Toshiaki Nishioka
Maloney said: “I’m very bullish about Jason and Rendall’s chances.
“The two year-deal also gives me time to develop other fighters that I am very excited about.
“Tony Jeffries is a fighter who I expect to win a world title in time
and I think my stable has the most exciting crop of heavyweights in
Britain.
“David Price will develop into a world class heavyweight, Tom Dallas is
the sleeper of the division and Larry Olubamiwo is a fighter you cannot
turn away from.”
Maloney has been behind two of the biggest boxing events ever screened by Sky Sports.
He promoted the biggest all- British heavyweight fight ever, the WBC battle between Lewis and Frank Bruno in October 1993.
Maloney also staged the Ricky Hatton-Juan Lazcano fight which drew a
record 58,000 crowd to the City of Manchester Stadium in May 2008.
Jason Booth’s challenge for Steve Molitor’s for the IBF world super-bantamweight title has been rescheduled for Saturday September 11. The Nottingham star (35-5) will meet the Canadian (32-1) at Rainton Meadows Arena, Houghton-Le-Spring in Frank Maloney’s first show of the new season. The pair were due to meet later this month, but Molitor suffered a stress fracture to his left shin which left him sidelined.
Booth, 32, said: “It was a bit of a disappointment, but on the flip side gives me even longer to prepare from my big chance.
“The delay isn’t Steve’s fought and I am sure he is as gutted as I am about the delay. I just hope he is getting better and on the mend.”
Molitor explained the injury which left him in agony, saying: “I have hurt my hand before and had other injuries and kept going, but this pain was unbearable.
“I am fed up over what happened, but I am delighted that the date has been rescheduled. I am just looking forward to staying healthy and giving a great performance.”
During a 14-year career Booth has won British and Commonwealth flyweight titles, the IBO super-flyweight crown, Commonwealth bantamweight championship plus British and Commonwealth belts.
Southpaw Molitor, 31, won the IBF crown for the second time when he outpointed Takalani Ndlovu in March.
His first reign as champion started in November 2006 when he knocked out Hartlepool’s Michael Hunter in five rounds.
Molitor made five successful defences, but his reign ended two years later when he was stopped in four rounds by Celestino Caballero in a unification fight.
Hunter is their one common opponent – Booth also claimed a five round win over him last October.
Booth won’t be after Molitor’s treasured world title belt, but also family revenge. Molitor visited these shores in September 2002 and took the Commonwealth bantamweight title from Jason’s younger brother, Nicky.
The fight will be televised live by Sky Sports.
Juanma Workout 
Photo: Joel Colon / PRBBP
WBO featherweight champ Juan Manuel Lopez gets in some bag
work during a workout on Tuesday. Lopez defends his title against
Bernanbe Concepcion this Saturday, July 9 live on Showtime.
"We're fine. We made the 126-pound mark
last night and I'm there right now, between 126 and 128 pounds, eating
well and maintaining strength," said Lopez. "I've been able to make
weight much easier for this fight than for the other (against
Steven Luevano). My condition is excellent."
Oquendo Workout 
Photo: Joel Colon / PRBBP
Jonathan Oquendo (18-2
11KOs) poses during a workout Tuesday in advance of his upcoming bout
this Saturday against Eded Sonsona (21-5 7KOs) on the undercard of the
featherweight title bout between Juan Manuel Lopez and Bernabe
Concepcion.
Margarito To Apply For Boxing License In Nevada George Groves To Make American Debut On Marquez-Diaz II Undercard, David Haye To Be In Corner
Former world champ Antonio
Margarito has filed the required paperwork to apply for a boxing
license in the state of Nevada. This Friday, July 9 the Nevada State
Athletic Commission will hold a meeting to discuss a number of
topics/issues/etc.. Among the topics will be Margarito's application as
the fighter himself will be present to answer any and all questions
posed by the commission.
Gamboa vs Rojas Unification Bout Set For September 11?
WBA featherweight champ
Yuriorkis Gamboa (18-0 15KOs) and WBC champ Elio Rojas (22-1 13KOs)
will compete in a unification bout on September 11 that will headline
an HBO televised card. ESPN.com reports that both sides have agreed to terms and the only thing left to decide is a venue.
Unbeaten British prospect
George Groves (9-0 7KOs) will make his highly anticipated American
debut against Alfredo Contreras (11-7-1) on the Marquez-Diaz II
undercard on July 31at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las
Vegas, NV. Groves will be looking to win over the U.S. fans with an
impressive performance.
"I want to put on a show, be my very best and win over fans Stateside," Groves told Sky Sports. "The US have some very promising super middleweights starting to break through, it's my job to show they won't be having it all their own way in years to come on the biggest stage. Golden Boy promotions have great faith in me, I plan to repay them with dazzling performances."
In addition, WBA heavyweight champ David Haye, who promotes Groves, will be working in his corner.
"In George Groves' corner is going to
be no other than the heavyweight champion of the world, David Haye, so
it's going to be an exciting added attraction to have David and George
Groves there at the Mandalay Bay," said Golden Boy Promotions' CEO
Richard Schaefer. "This fight is an opportunity for Cris to jump back into the thick of things with a win," promoter Dan Goossen told ESPN.com.
"And this is something Quezada has been asking for for quite awhile.
He's been asking to fight Cris. He feels like he's taken a backseat to
Cris and he thinks he's just as interesting and aggressive and exciting
as Cris is in the ring. I know that Cris has never had any problem
fighting Manny, but it never worked out that way the last few years.
Now, obviously, here it is. They're both coming off very disappointing
losses and they need to win this one."
Arreola vs Quezada August 13
Heavyweight Chris Arreola
(28-2 25KOs) will return to action against Manny Quezada (29-5
18KOs) August 13. The bout will headline ESPN's "Friday Night Fights"
at the Business Bank Arena in Ontario, CA.
Khan Ok After Being Released From Hospital
WBA junior welterweight champ Amir Khan is ok after being released from the hospital. After returning from vacation Khan began to feel weak and was taken to the hospital on Sunday as a precautionary measure. All tests taken came back negative and Khan is now resting.
"Amir's OK now. All the tests came back negative," Shah Khan, Amir's father, told BBC Radio.
"Amir came home from South Africa feeling weak and by Sunday his temperature had risen quite high. He didn't collapse or anything like that, but he went to the Beaumont Hospital in Bolton.
"They kept him in for tests but they all came back fine and he came home this morning.
"He has been told to get some rest but he will be fine to go to Las Vegas later this month to watch Juan Manuel Márquez fight Juan Diaz."
Sturm, Universum Settle Dispute
The long legal battle between WBA middleweight champ Felix Sturm and Universum Box-Promotion is finally over after a judge ruled Sturm would be able to buy his way out of his current contract, making him free from any promotional contacts/agreements/etc. Sturm is currently planning a ring return for September 4.
Universum issued the following statement regarding the situation:
Universum Box-Promotion and Felix Sturm have agreed to settle their dispute amicably and peacefully and will go their separate ways to the future. Both sides agreed not to disclose details on the agreement. Felix Sturm, Universum wishes you well in the future.
Hall Defends British Title Against Power In Rematch On July 23
STUEY HALL is promising to make Martin Power suffer again when they clash later this month.
Hall, 30, makes the second defence of his British bantamweight title when he faces the Londoner at Rainton Meadows Arena, Houghton-le-Spring on Friday July 23.
The feuding duo first waged war last September when Darlington’s Hall (8-0-1) stopped Power (21-5) in the eighth round of a thriller.
And Hall who won the Lonsdale belt by forcing Ian Napa to quit last month is still on bad terms with Power.
“Last time it was a bit strange. I went all the way down to Kent for the weigh-in,” said the punching roofer.
The big ticket seller added: “The fight was made at 8st 8lb and when I got down there I was about 2oz overweight.
“He made me skip it off, which I wasn’t too pleased about. It wasn’t a title fight or anything and I took it at a week’s notice.
“But justice was done because I beat him. This time it’s no problem for me. I’m going to make the weight and be strong.
“He’s going to feel the strength when he gets in there.
“I can’t wait to fight him. He’s going to be sick he’s come after me – probably after the first round.”
Promoter Frank Maloney is ending the season with a bumper bill, and a second title fight sees another Londoner Matthew Marsh face Scot Kris Hughes for the vacant Commonwealth super-bantamweight title.
In a third title fight, Nigel Wright (21-6) who conquered former world champion Alex Arthur in his last battle contests the vacant English light-welterweight crown against Wolverhampton’s Dean Harrison (16-3).
Other stars in action includes Sunderland’s Olympic bronze medallist Tony Jeffries who faces under-rated Michael Banbula (10-25-3)
Tickets for the big night of action, price £30 and £70 are available from 0871 226 1508 or www.frankmaloney.com
McGuinness Ready For Bannos Logan Cotton McGuinness (10-0-1, 4
KO’s) has crisscrossed Canada, fought in the US, and has even been to
Ireland twice in going undefeated in his first 11 pro fights. But this
Saturday night at Mississauga’s Hershey Centre, he’s coming home.
McGuinness will be making his Ontario debut, taking on tough Quebecer Jorge Bannos (6-6-3) in a bout scheduled for 8 rounds, and presented by United Promotions in association with Hennessy Sports Canada.
“This is my first fight in Ontario, and I’m really looking forward to finally showcasing my talents in front of my home fans, ” McGuinness said.
In September of 2009, McGuinness and Bannos battled over four exciting rounds in Montreal, with McGuinness coming away with a unanimous decision.
Currently riding a two-fight win streak, Bannos has redemption on his mind, and some momentum on his side.
“I
already know Bannos can fight, and that he’s tough as nails. He's come
to my home province and beaten two Ontario fighters back to back, so
I'm taking this personally. Everyone keeps talking about how great
Quebec fighters are, and they are definitely talented, but Ontario is
emerging as a serious rival. With that said, I'm looking forward to not
only winning, but punishing Bannos and stopping him in style. I can't
wait to send this guy back down Highway 401 with his mouth shut and his
tail between his legs."
Saturday night's stacked card also features a Canadian Welterweight
Championship showdown between Justin Fountain and Tebor Brosch, as well
as local favorites Denton Daley, Ryan Wagner, Horace Hunter, and Julius
Bundas.
For tickets to this historic night of professional boxing starting at 25$, go to www.ticketmaster.ca or call (416) 872-5000 today!
Faragon - More Than Just A Baby Face
Looking at him, it's hard to believe Mike Faragon has ever faced adversity or felt serious pain. The baby face hides a lot.
Undefeated Schenectady, New York, lightweight Michael "Baby Face"
Faragon (11-0, 5 KOs) has overcome tremendous adversity in his life and
dealt out his fair share of pain.
Born Michael Cunningham in Syracuse, New York, Faragon could have
easily slipped between the cracks into the void of angry young men that
fill the prison system.
But the kid with the deceivingly innocent face was born a fighter.
Faragon was just seven years old when he found combat sports. Living in
Albany, New York, where his mother had been transferred, he wandered
into a local gym and took up kickboxing. His natural talent was
immediately apparent and then one day, a kickboxer named Andy Faragon
invited the young man to train at a gym he owned in Schenectady, New
York.
The pair's focus switched over to boxing and Faragon would go on
compile an 85-15 record and win the state Golden Glove Championships
twice, the Western Olympic trials and a junior national championship.
He was also the number one ranked light welterweight in the United
States in 2007.
And along the way, the elder Faragon became the father figure the boy
had always lacked. With his mother's blessing, young Michael moved to
Schenectady in the sixth grade to live with the Faragons. As the years
went by, he became a part of the family, was legally adopted and in
honor of their bond, changed his surname to Faragon.
Michael "Baby Face" Faragon is now 22 years old and a professional
boxer with building momentum and a dynamic duo of promoter and manager
that would make any boxer jealous. He recently signed with promotional
powerhouse The Empire Sports and Entertainment and is managed by
longtime friend and well-known boxing figure Stan Hoffman.
Hoffman is best known for having handled the careers of 31 different world champions.
"I've known Stan Hoffman since the amateurs from when I was 15," he
explains. "I went up to his camp a couple times and sparred some of his
pros. I grew up around him and he always gave me advice coming up. He's
like a grandfather to me."
The Empire President, Greg Cohen, admits he is counting on Faragon and
a few of his other young pros to carry the company name into boxing's
future. "We've got Shannon Briggs and Hasim Rahman and some other
fighters who are making a splash on the boxing world right now," he
explains, "but the next wave of Empire fighters will be lead by kids
like Michael Faragon. He may have come from a rough background, but
he's got the world laid out in front of him now and all he has to do is
carry through with his enormous potential."
Hoffman, whose track record for spotting and developing talent is
impeccable, says he is eager to introduce his latest "future star" to
the world. "He may look like a choir boy, but this kid can really
fight. He's got a tremendous story of overcoming adversity and a
genuinely good heart even after all he's been through. It won't be long
now and he'll be starring on the HBOs and Showtimes. He's all-action
when he fights and the fans are going to love him."
Serrano To Fight In Co-Feature July 17 On Tua-Barrett PPV
On Saturday July 17th at the Tropicana Casino and Resort,
Philadelphia's up and coming welterweight prospect, Raymond "Tito"
Serrano (12-0, 6KO's) will look to continue on his path up the
contender ranks when he takes on Ghana's Ayi Bruce (6-2, 4KO's).
Serrano-Bruce is scheduled for eight rounds, and will be one of the
co-featured bouts of the evening on the Pay-Per-View telecast. The
card, being presented by Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing, and billed as
T-N-T at the Tropicana, will feature WBO #2 rated heavyweight David Tua
(51-3-1, 43KO's) taking on Monte Barrett (34-9, 20KO's) in the main
event.
Serrano
is coming off a dominate eight round unanimous decision over Ronald
Warrior Jr. in his last fight, which was televised live on ESPN's
"Friday Night Fights" earlier this year.
The 21-year-old Serrano, is excited to be fighting in Atlantic City and
is looking forward to the world-wide exposure he will get in fighting
on PPV.
"This is very exciting fight for me," stated Serrano. "Fighting so
close to home, and fighting on PPV, is a dream come true for me. I have
a lot of family in Puerto Rico and fighting on PPV will allow them to
see me fight, so this is definitely a special fight for me. This will
be my second consecutive eight rounder, and I feel that before this
year is over I will be ready to move up to ten round fights, and start
testing myself against some of the top prospects in the welterweight
division. I am very focused, and very hungry. This will be my third
fight in Atlantic City since turning pro, and just as in my previous
two, I plan on putting on an exciting entertaining performance for all
the fans in attendance."
Tickets can be purchased by calling the Star Boxing office at (718) 823-2000 or visiting www.starboxing.com. Tickets are priced at $100 (ringside), $50 and $30. Star Boxing is currently holding exclusive $200 VIP Packages, call for more information. Tickets may also be purchased at any Ticketmaster outlet, or by going online to Ticketmaster.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the Tropicana North Tower Box Office or by phone at (609) 340-4000. The Tropicana Casino and Resort is located at 2831 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ.
T-N-T at the Tropicana is being promoted by Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing and will be shown live at 8 PM/ET - 5 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, Avail-TVN and DISH Network in the United States and Puerto Rico for a suggested retail price of only $24.95. The PPV telecast will also be shown in France, New Zealand, Australia and via tape delay in numerous other countries throughout the World. The exciting undercard will go live on PPV at 8 PM/ET - 5 PM/PT with the Tua vs. Barrett main event scheduled to go on air at approximately 10 PM/ET - 7 PM/PT.
De La Hoya, Schaefer Talk Marquez-Diaz II Undercard
To download the MP3 of the conference call in its entirety, please click HERE.
Before we talk about the undercard, I just want to make another quick announcement. This Friday, July 2 there is going to be a special edition of Sólo Boxeo Tecate on Telefutura, which is going to go inside Marquez vs. Diaz II. It's going to be a 90-minute special, a deep look into the first fight and an analysis by some very well-known fighters, such as Israel Vasquez and others are going to be talking about the first fight. Marquez and Diaz are going to be on talking about that first fight and what kind of adjustments they have to make for the second fight and they're going to be showing never before seen camp footage, how these two guys are preparing. So, in a way, it's almost like a 24/7 put into one 90-minute show and that's going to be a special this coming Friday, July 2, which is going to be on Telefutura. So, please make sure you watch out for that.
When we announced Marquez and Diaz II, the rematch of the fight of the year of last year at the Media Center at the MGM Grand when we did the Mayweather and Mosley fight, many of you were excited about this fight and fight fans were asking for a rematch. But the promise that I made there in front of all you media members was that we were going to put together an undercard, which is worthy of the fight of the year, basically a card which will include fights where each one of those could be featured on an HBO or on a Showtime as a standalone fight on the Boxing After Dark or a Showtime fight.
And that's exactly what we accomplished here. I believe that we have put together the best undercard, top-to-bottom, of any fight card that we here at Golden Boy have ever put together and that was a commitment we made to the fight fans out there. That's exactly what we wanted to achieve. As well, from a promotional point of view, I think it's great. We have Cerveza Tecate and AT&T involved again. AT&T, in fact, is cutting a special commercial to showcase the fight, to promote on all English and Spanish language stations. They're going to be spending close to $2 million advertising this fight. Tecate is activating in all of their outlets, as they usually do for a big fight, for fights of that magnitude so we're really excited to have them back on board.
NCM Fathom, the movie theaters, are for those of you who have been to movies recently you might have seen the excellent spot already, so NCM Fathom is fully behind it as well and fight fans will be able to see the fight live from movie theaters across the nation again. Again, underlying the importance of this rematch and, frankly, the importance of this entire card since the entire card will be shown live in the movie theaters as well.
Of course the fight is from the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, a beautiful summer night in Las Vegas. The Mandalay Bay has so much to offer. They have special room rates as well, so I encourage fight fans to make the trip to Vegas. Tickets are available starting as little as $50 and ringside are $350, so a great time to go to Las Vegas.
Now, let's move to the card. Oscar de la Hoya is going to be talking about the card, the televised portion, but there is going to be another fight on where we will show highlights, which I'm, frankly, very excited about as well.
One of the young emerging stars from England, who is actually promoted by Hayemaker, David Haye and by Golden Boy, is a fighter by the name of George Groves. George is very quickly making a name for himself and he will be there fighting on the July 31 card and the pay-per-view will include highlights from George Groves. In George Groves' corner is going to be no other than the heavyweight champion of the world, David Haye, so it's going to be an exciting added attraction to have David and George Groves there at the Mandalay Bay.
Now, it is a pleasure for me to introduce to you the President of Golden Boy, my good friend, Oscar de la Hoya, who is going to be talking about those six fighters on the televised undercard, which have a combined record of 153 wins with only 12 losses and 108 knockouts between them. So, talking about explosive, I think it cannot get any more explosive than this undercard we have put together here. Oscar, please.
Oscar de la Hoya, President of Golden Boy Promotions:
I want to first thank all the staff of Golden Boy, Richard, the matchmakers, to everyone who put all their hard work into this fight card, it truly is something that is unheard of today in the boxing world. We're always used to getting the main event as the attraction and the undercard sometimes is left behind. But this is not the case. July 31 will be something very special. The first fight of the evening we have Jorge Linares, "El Nino De Oro" who will be fighting Rocky Juarez.
Now, the reason why this is a very special and interesting fight is because this is a fight where both fighters know they have to win or else their career might end. You have Linares, who is coming off a good win after suffering his first knockout loss in Mexico. He, obviously, has all the talent in the world. He was viewed upon by many writers as the up-and-coming next champion, young emerging star. And you have him facing a young veteran who never gives up in Rocky Juarez.
We feel this fight here, obviously, can headline any HBO night or Showtime, whatever you want to put it on. This fight can be a standalone in any of those network televisions. Also, as a special treat we have another great fight. The second fight of the evening will face Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero against Joel Casamayor.
Now, as a fight fan and a fan's perspective this fight has fireworks written all over it. Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero, he has a strong determination to go out there and become world champion and to beat everyone that's put in front of him. Joel Casamayor is no pushover.
Yes, he is 38 years of age, but 38 years young. Joel Casamayor keeps on proving to us that he still has another fight left in him, so this fight in my eyes is evenly matched because it's the experience and because of the youth that both fighters bring to the table. It equals itself out with experience, youth, power, strength, speed and intelligence. You have that bundled into one fight that night.
And the third fight that we'll be televising will be Daniel Jacobs, the great sensation out of Brooklyn, New York, who will be making his first title appearance against Dmitry Pirog. He will be making a title defense against the young, emerging lion in Daniel Jacobs and I'm truly excited about this fight because as we all know that styles make fights and Daniel Jacobs has a tremendous style. He can pick it up whenever he wants. He has the power to knock you out. He has the speed, obviously, he has the intelligence. But Dmitry is a fighter who before we made this fight I studied him left and right. He's a fighter who keeps coming forward, but is very, very smart. He has your typical European come forward type of attitude, but he's very, very smart in boxing and I think this fight has fight of the year written all over it.
Any one of these fights on the undercard can be a candidate for fight of the year for 2010. That's what makes it so exciting is that not only Juan Manuel Marquez and Juan Diaz can once again give us the same action, the same excitement they did last year, but all of these fights on this card July 31 from the Mandalay Bay can give us a big bang for our buck. I mean talk about a big bang for our buck; it doesn't get any better than this. Obviously, we can put the biggest names out there on one card and spend a lot of money on putting these fighters together and doing a spectacular night, but the fact that we put all these guys together, the fact that we wanted to spend the money and to give the fight fans a treat and we're not fooling anybody here.
Everybody knows these fights are exciting. Everybody knows these fights can go either way. These fights are not mismatches. These fights are not fights where we know who is going to win. No, these fights are exciting fights that one punch can end it all for any one of these guys, so this is truly a special treat for us within Golden Boy and, hopefully, it's a special treat for all the media, for all the fans, for the boxing world. I'm really looking forward to watching this card July 31.
Schaefer:
Before we open it up for questions, I want to thank as well HBO and HBO Pay-Per-View. They have put their full muscle, marketing muscle, behind this card. It will be announced by their A-Team, so it will be a fully produced, HBO Pay-Per-View night of boxing and that's why with this card we're really happy we were able to deliver that. The fight of the year, Marquez and Diaz, really has become the night of the year and with these guys on the card, nine world titles, an Olympic gold medal, an Olympic silver medal between them, an amazing knockout ratio with 108 knockouts, 153 wins. I mean, as Oscar said, it doesn't really get much better than that.
We at Golden Boy made, as Oscar indicated, a huge financial commitment to this card to really deliver to the fight fans what they want and what they deserve. Having said that now, we'd like to open it up to the media for any questions they might have for Oscar or for me.
Q:
First of all, one of the complaints that I hear after a lot of these big pay-per-view cards especially is that the under cards really suck. And sometimes it's just a valid complaint and sometimes it's a little overblown. But it does seem like the days of having great top-to-bottom cards, especially on these pay-per-view events, they seem to have almost vanished. How important is it for you guys as well as the other big promoters to make sure that when fans are paying $49.95 for a big pay-per-view event that they get a good top-to-bottom card?
De La Hoya:
This is key in making sure that we not only keep our existing fans of the boxing world, but we attract more boxing fans and when you have a fight card like this one, I mean you have Jorge Linares, Rocky Juarez, Robert Guerrero, Joel Casamayor, Daniel Jacobs, Dmitry Pirog, a world champion, this is really from top-to-bottom, it's going to be a great night of fights. This is one card that we wanted to make sure and we didn't think about or care about how much money we spent. We just wanted to make sure that we have great fights, that the fans are happy because it's good for boxing.
Schaefer:
What I want to add to that is, and I'm taking certainly my fair share of blame for that, but you know when you have pay-per-view cards where you have two promoters involved, unfortunately often the undercard becomes a matter of splitting the spots and matching fighters from their respective stables fighting each other and I think that is one of the issues, which I often deal with when we do put these cards together. When you do a card, which is all Golden Boy in this particular case, then you sort of like don't have to get approval from other promoters and things like that. You really sort of can use your best efforts to put together the best possible card, and I think that's the result we see here.
Q:
I think, Richard, you told me recently that Amir Khan is going to be at the fight and that maybe - you didn't say for sure - you just said maybe he might fight the winner. And I just want to know if either one of you gentlemen have seen the quotes by Freddie Roach that were posted today on BoxingScene.com, actually, of Roach saying about Marquez and Diaz, basically he was saying he would rather fight Maidana next because they're both washed up; they're over the hill, in speaking of Marquez and Diaz. Do you guys have any thoughts on those quotes from Freddie Roach?
Schaefer:
I haven't seen those quotes and when I talked to Freddie last he felt very much that he would like to fight the winner of Marquez and Diaz and I just came back from London a couple of weeks ago and I know that is the fight Amir would be interested in as well. But Amir made it clear to me and, I have to admit, so did Freddie, that this is not the only option. Other options would be a Maidana or a Katsidis, so I think the good thing is in these weight classes you have so much depth that you can pretty much mix or match. I would love to see a Maidana vs. Amir Khan fight, no problem whatsoever, and then the winner of Marquez and Diaz fighting Katsidis, there's nothing wrong with that either. There are so many great fights out there in this particular weight class as a fight fan, first and foremost, we can just really be excited and look forward to some great match-ups, so it doesn't really matter who is going to be fighting who because we know it's going to be fireworks. And, yes, Amir Khan will be at the fight on July 31 and will be, of course, very closely watching on what's going to happen.
Q:
Hey, Oscar, did you have any thoughts on Roach's quote?
De La Hoya:
Well, the great thing about this is that, this is kind of like do or die for every fighter that we have on this card, for every fighter this is do or die, including the main event. Like Richard stated, the winner is going to move on and fight whoever at 140; that's going to be very attractive for them for the months to come, for their future. This is a fight where if Juan Diaz wins he has many options. If Juan Manuel Marquez wins, he has many options, so this is a do or die fight for both of them and I think that whether he wants to fight Maidana, whether he wants to fight anyone at 140, the winner is going to have that choice to make and that's why it's so exciting.
Q:
I know what the card is, of course, it's a good looking card. I wonder, what was the decision behind taking this specific card and trying to beef up, as it was alluded to in previous questioning about the complaint, and I hear the same thing from a lot of the fans that I come in contact with, readers and such, that they are disappointed with undercards. What was it about this particular card that made you decide to beef it up more than the most recent past pay-per-views have been, from Golden Boy as well as other companies?
Schaefer
Well, I think when you actually look at Golden Boy standalone pay-per-views, where you not forced to mix and match between two promotional outfits, fighters from their respective rosters, then I think Golden Boy usually delivers on big undercards.
I think this one here, as I said, I have to admit I think is the best we've ever done and I made that comment when we had the press conference and I really wanted to try to live up to it. We really don't want this to be a stand alone. We really want this to set a standard and set a trend and you can quote me on that. And when we're ready to be putting together our September pay-per-view, I want to do the same.
We want to have, again, a top-to-bottom solid card, which fight fans can be excited about and this one is hopefully the first of many steps in the right direction; not just from us, but from other promoters as well.
De La Hoya:
Just to add to Richard's comments, America was built on freedom, right? America was built on freedom.
Q:
You sound like Don King, Oscar.
De La Hoya:
Well, Golden Boy had the freedom of putting on a spectacular show and come July 31 we're going to give you fireworks. So, as long as we can have the freedom, as long as we can make sure that we're putting our fighters and we're matching them up against hard, tough competition we're going to see some great cards and when you have that freedom, it's a beautiful thing because we don't have to answer to anybody.
We don't have to go out and ask for permission to put this guy and that guy. It makes it much better for the promoter; it makes it much better for the fans.
Schaefer:
You know, saying you sound like Don King, love him or hate him, I have to say long before I was involved in boxing I used to have a little place out in Palm Springs and used to be watching the fights, and that was in the mid-80s, and Don King used to put on these great, great cards and I think people, fight fans, still talk about those cards and if we can go back to these cards, which really wasn't the main event, but it was just an event top-to-bottom, the kind of fights you just wanted to see a single one, then I think that's maybe a way boxing is going to evolve and, hopefully be able to bring new fans, additional fans, to the sport of boxing.
Q:
I think we've established that this is a very nice card, obviously. I don't think there's anybody that's questioning that and while I appreciate that as a fan, I'm sure many of the other writers and readers and fight fans appreciate that also. To play slightly the devil's advocate and not to get into a big argument about it, but my question is this, why isn't this the norm? Why are we celebrating a really good card, when this is the way it's supposed to be every time out because people are being asked to pay 50 bucks for a show?
Schaefer
I agree with you. I can't argue that. That's the way it should be and I think that's what fight fans deserve.
Q:
Oscar, do you have any comment about that?
De La Hoya:
Well, I go back to freedom, as long as Golden Boy Promotions can have freedom to put on the fight cards that fight fans want to watch, then it's going to happen. We have no problem with doing so.
Q:
But even when you do a show with another promoter, let's say you've teamed up many times with some of the big, big fights with Top Rank, Golden Boy unto itself has the ability to put on at least a singular fight of its own, as does the other company and maybe there's one that you have to mix and match or that you're going to flip a coin to see who gets the spot.
So, it's hard to see just because you control the entirety of the show that that should make it a better card. When you have a card that's split between promoters, you still have solo control over at least part of the card, don't you?
De La Hoya:
I'm sure Richard is going to agree with me here too. Sometimes have to go through budget with other promoters and you cannot spend so much money and it makes it difficult to make the right fights and we wanted to just make sure that with this fight card we didn't care about budget, we didn't care about how much money we were going to spend. No, we cared about how much bang you are going to get for your buck; that's what we cared about and so when you have other promoters it makes everything much more difficult.
Schaefer:
This is a major financial commitment on our part and we do hope that the fight fans, those who always complain out there, well, there wasn't really a good card or this wasn't good or that wasn't good, are going to come out and really support that card because at the end of the day who likes to lose a few million dollars? Nobody, so I do hope that when we give the product and we do have the product, that we are going to be proven right and that we will be encouraged by the fight fans by their support for this amazing card, that they're going to say we like it through their actions, by buying the pay-per-view, we like it, we support you when you put these kinds of cards together. If that's going to be the case, I give you my word. I give you my word that this is going to be the norm, and not the exception. But if fight fans are going to be like, oh, I'm not really going to buy it and so on, then it becomes a huge loss for us. Then I really don't want to hear any more either, well, you know what this is not good or that is not good. We are trying to basically sell here an event from top-to-bottom and I hope the fight fans, the fight freaks, are going to embrace it.
Q:
Terrific. What do you spend it on then if the budget is so big?
Schaefer:
Well, I think the overall event budget is going to be close to $4 million.
Q:
It occurs to me that there are so many story lines on this card. You've young/old, you've got guys who are coming back, guys who are slipping, guys who have great futures and guys, like Oscar was saying, who could be on their last legs if they lose. From a reporter's standpoint we want to help you promote this, what kind of access are we going to get to these guys over the next month?
Schaefer:
Very good question and I'm glad you actually bring it up because what we will do is our PR team will make separate conference calls with each one of these fights. So, there will be one for Jacobs/Pirog, there will be one for "Ghost" Guerrero and Casamayor and there will be one for Linares and Rocky Juarez so that you have direct access to them as well. If you do want to have specific one-on-ones and so on, then I encourage you to contact our PR team, for English, Monica Sears and for Spanish, Ramiro Gonzalez so that they can hook you up directly with the fighters and the fighters are excited to be part of that card and they made the commitment to us that they will make themselves fully available to all media.
Schaefer:
And Monica will contact the fighters and will coordinate your schedule and the fighter's schedule and hook you up one-on-one
Q:
Sounds good. Of the most compelling stories on the card, I mean there are so many of them, two of them are, Linares who was just a stud and then he gets stopped in one round and probably didn't look his greatest in his last fight. What is your assessment, Richard and Oscar, of what he has left and what's at stake for him in this fight?
De La Hoya:
Yes, Linares actually reminds me of what Amir Khan went through. If you recall, Amir Khan got knocked out in one round, and then he came back. People thought he was washed up and then he came back in a spectacular fashion and now is on top of the world. I feel the same way for Linares. Suffering a knockout in your career is not easy, and coming back from it is even harder, but this fight here, it's not going to be an easy one against Rocky Juarez. This is a true, tough test against a real fighter in Rocky Juarez. If Linares is not going to pass this test, if he's not going to win this fight, then we have to reevaluate his career. We have high hopes for Linares and obviously we still have high hopes for Rocky Juarez, that's what makes it so special.
We don't know what's going to happen. We don't know who is going to win. We're hoping both guys come out and fight the fight of their lives, and they receive the Fight of the Year Award. We just don't know what's going to happen. Linares reminds me of Amir Khan in a way where he has to look spectacular.
Q: