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Andre Ward Speaks to Los Angeles Media
Andre Ward On How He Plans To Celebrate Victory
Andre Ward Responds To Being Labeled Pound for Pound Champ
Andre Ward Responds To Fighting With A Fractured Hand
Champions Collide: Ramos-Rigondeaux Lands In Vegas Jan. 20
SHERMAN OAKS, Calif. (Dec. 29, 2011) - Goossen Tutor Promotions will kick off 2012 with a World Championship bout headlining on the popular SHOWTIME series, ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, Jan. 20. The special edition of ShoBox features World Boxing Association (WBA) super bantamweight champion Rico Ramos defending his title for the first time against the WBA interim champion Guillermo Rigondeaux, matching two world champions and two of the sport's rising stars. The bout was originally scheduled for New Year's Eve, but was postponed after a fighter in the co-main event withdrew due to an injury. The championship event will be held at the Pearl at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, Nev. and broadcast on SHOWTIME at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).
Ramos (20-0, 11 KOs), of Whittier, Calif., just outside of Los Angeles, won the WBA super bantamweight title with a seventh-round knockout over defending champion Akifumi Shimoda this past July in Atlantic City. The slick and speedy 24-year-old holds victories over former world title challengers Alejandro Valdez and Heriberto Ruiz, but will be facing his toughest opponent to date in Rigondeaux.
The 31-year-old Rigondeaux (8-0, 6 KOs), of Miami, Fla., by way of Cuba, is one of the sport's fastest rising prospects. An amateur boxing legend in Cuba, Rigondeaux was the 2000 and 2004 Olympic Games Gold Medalist in the bantamweight division. The hard-hitting southpaw defected from Cuba in 2009 and won the interim WBA super bantamweight championship in only his seventh professional fight. He is coming off a first-round knockout over previously undefeated Willie Casey in a March bout in Ireland.
The Pearl at Palms Casino Resort is Las Vegas' premier concert theater boasting seats for up to 2,500 ticket holders. "We are thrilled to partner with Goossen Tutor and SHOWTIME to bring another exciting night of boxing to the Pearl," said Palms President Joseph A. Magliarditi. "The list of athletes on the card is impressive; we are looking forward to a great event."
Also appearing on the televised portion of the card is rising middleweight prospect Brandon Gonzales (15-0-1, 10 KOs), of Sacramento, Calif., who will be facing the tough, undefeated 29-year-old, Caleb Truax (18-0-1, 10 KOs) of Osseo, Minn. Gonzales, the 27-year-old stablemate of Andre Ward and protégé of 'Trainer of the Year' candidate, Virgil Hunter, defeated Ossie Duran in a hard-fought 8-round decision this past October in Atlantic City, NJ. This will be the middleweight fighter's second bout under the Goossen Tutor-Antonio Leonard banner.
Opening the ShoBox telecast, undefeated Matthew Villanueva (6-0-1, 6 KOs) of Burbank, Calif. will fight Mike Ruiz (8-1-1, 3 KOs) of Fresno, Calif. in an 8-round junior bantamweight bout.
"I want to thank Palms for being the host of this very intriguing championship bout. The winner immediately jumps to the top of the class," said promoter Dan Goossen. "Although Rigondeaux has a better knockout percentage then Ramos, Rico is known for one-punch knockout power, and I don't believe anyone at this weight can take it." "As for Gonzalez and Villanueva, both are exciting, aggressive fighters and each have their work cut out for them in their matchups."
Doors for the event open at 5:30 p.m. with the first bout at 6:00 p.m. and the televised portion of the card beginning at 8:00 p.m. (all times PT). Tickets for the event are priced at $50 and $25 and are available at ticketmaster.com and at The Palms box office starting Friday, Dec. 30 at noon PT.
After Undergoing Emergency Surgery, Erik Morales' World Title Defense Against Danny Garcia Is Rescheduled For March 24
LOS ANGELES, December 29 - As a result of having undergone emergency gall bladder surgery the week before Christmas, WBC Super Lightweight World Champion Erik "Terrible" Morales' originally scheduled January 28 HBO World Championship Boxing televised world title defense against undefeated top contender Danny "Swift" Garcia has been rescheduled for March 24, but will still take place at Reliant Arena in Houston, Texas.
Also rescheduled for the new march 24 date is the highly anticipated clash of junior middleweights James "Mandingo Warrior" Kirkland and "King" Carlos Molina.
All tickets for the January 28 event will be honored for the new date. If fans are unable to attend the March 24 event, refunds will be available by returning their full, un-torn ticket to the original point of purchase starting on Friday, January 6, at 10:00 a.m. CT. For phone and internet purchasers, Ticketmaster Customer Service will be contacting customers by email. Phone and internet customers just need to reply to the email sent by Ticketmaster Customer Service. Phone and internet customers may also contact Ticketmaster Customer Service directly at (800) 653-8000. All refund requests must be completed by Friday March 23 at 5:00 p.m. CT.
Tickets, priced at $250, $125, $75, $50 and $25, may be purchased at all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling (800) 745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets are also be available for purchase at the Reliant Stadium box office south ticket windows.
Morales vs. Garcia is a 12-round bout for Morales' WBC Super Lightweight World Title and will take place on Saturday, March 24 at Reliant Arena in Houston, Tex. The co-featured bout will be between James Kirkland and Carlos Molina in a junior middleweight showdown. The evening of boxing is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Box Latino with Kirkland vs. Molina being presented in association with Warrior's Boxing and Promotions. The HBO World Championship Boxing broadcast begins at 10:15 p.m. ET / 7:15 p.m. PT.
For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.reliantpark.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.twitter.com/terrible100, www.twitter.com/dannyswift, www.twitter.com/reliantpark or visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing or www.facebook.com/reliantparkfan. Follow HBO Boxing news at www.hbo.com/boxing, on Twitter @hboboxing and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hboboxing.
An Internal Civil War Erupts Between SES Boxing Light Heavyweights
Photo: SES Boxing
An internal civil war inside the stable of Magdeburg, Germany-based promoter SES Boxing came to a head during a sparring session between light heavyweight contenders Robin Krasniqi and Denis Simcic. The animosity was evident Thursday evening as both fighters emerged with minor wounds. The normal peace within the camp was put aside because both Krasniqi and Simcic smelled a chance at the WBO world title.
Promoter Ulf Steinforth confirms, “We already had some talks about fighting the current WBO world champion Nathan Cleverly from Great Britain and both would want this fight. Robin Krasniqi is rated #6 while Denis Simcic is at #11, so both of them would qualify for the shot at the title. On January 7 we will see who of them is the leading the way.”
The WBO title has a special meaning for the SES boxers, because it was previously held by Jürgen Brähmer. Especially Simcic’ ambition was reaching new heights, as his trainer Dirk Dzemski found out by chance about secret training the Slovenian-born fighter was conducting on his own in the early morning hours and on weekends. “With this internal competition, our upcoming event at the Maritim Hotel in Magdeburg will have an added explosiveness. I am really curious who will come out the better one,” said Steinforth.
WBO Euro light heavyweight titlist Krasniqi (36-2, 12 KOs) faces TBA, while Simcic (26-1, 14 KOs) meets Czech Tomas Adamek (17-5-1, 7 KOs), not to be confused with Tomasz Adamek of Poland who once ruled this division and is now competing at heavyweight.
Taylor/Dirrell Weigh-In Pics & Quotes
Photo: Tom Casino/SHOWTIME
Two of the most recognizable names in boxing will make their long-awaited returns to the ring tomorrow, Dec. 30, when Jermain Taylor and Andre Dirrell are featured in separate 10-round fights on a special edition of ShoBox: The New Generation live on SHOWTIME® (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) at Morongo Casino Resort & Spa in Cabazon, Calif.
Taylor weighed 161 pounds, while opponent Jesse Nicklow was at 159. Dirrell weighed 169 pounds and opponent Cunningham was 167.5 pounds. For the TV opener, Luis Garcia’s official weight is 174.5 pounds and Alexander Johnson weighed 172.
Taylor, (28-4-1, 17 KOs), of Little Rock, Ark., is a former undisputed middleweight champion who’ll be making his first start in 26 months when he meets Jessie Nicklow (22-2-3, 8 KOs) of Baltimore, Md., in the main event of a tripleheader. It will be Taylor’s first fight since losing to Arthur Abraham in the Super Six World Boxing Classic on Oct. 17, 2009.
Dirrell (19-1, 13 KOs), of Flint, Mich., hasn’t fought since March 27, 2010, when he won by 11th-round disqualification over Abraham in the Super Six World Boxing Classic. Dirrell’s first fight in 21 months will be against Darryl Cunningham (24-2, 10 KOs), of Detroit, who has won 17 in-a-row.
In the opening bout of the telecast, former Cuban amateur standout Luis “El Leon” Garcia (11-0, 9 KOs) of Cork, Ireland, makes his United States debut when he takes on southpaw Alexander “The Great” Johnson (12-0, 5 KOs, 1 NC) of Oxon Hill, Md., in an eight-round showdown of undefeated light heavyweights.
Garcia, who turned 24 on Dec. 23, is a former world amateur champion. Johnson outpointed previously unbeaten Farah Ennis (17-0 going in) two starts ago on April 2, 2011.
What the fighters said Thursday:
JERMAIN TAYLOR
“I feel totally different today than I ever have the day of the weigh-in before a fight. I’m not irritable. I didn’t have to dry out. I feel calm and at peace.
“I feel so different because finally, for the first time, I did it right. I put in the hours training in the gym. I did my job and worked hard. I don’t have to drop a bunch of weight. I ate pasta the other night, steak and eggs the other morning. I never could do that before.
“This is the first time I can say that I am entering a fight knowing that I’m in shape. I’m ready to fight.’’
JESSIE NICKLOW
“I know why they want to fight me. They think I’m too small, that I’m a natural junior middleweight. But they’re making a big mistake. I’m not a steppingstone.
“I’m really confident for this. I don’t think Taylor has that confidence. He’s been off two years. I’ve had four fights, two this year, but I’ve never been out of the gym. I definitely feel I can stay close (inside) and fight my style of fight
“My game plan is always the same – to hit my opponent in the face. I’m not changing anything just because I’m fighting a former world champion. Let’s see what he’s got to offer. I know what I’m bringing.
“I’m really looking forward to this.’’
ANDRE DIRRELL
“I have never felt as excited for a fight since I turned pro. I’m really psyched up.
“There’s going to be ring rust, of course. I just don’t want to show it. I’ve trained really hard. I trained through the holidays. It all begins again for me Friday night.
“I want to win, look good, and then go after all the super middleweights. I’m not ducking anybody. I will fight any of the 168-pounders in the world except for my brother, Anthony. People want to see me and Andre Ward fight. All I can continue to say is that that fight will definitely happen.’’
DARRYL CUNNINGHAM
“I’m going to have fun. I appreciate Team Dirrell giving me the opportunity to showcase my skills, and I will showcase my skills on Friday.
“This is such a great opportunity. I just can’t lose and not take advantage of it.
“Lots of people have never given me my due. They look where I come from, my background, the fact my Dad’s a pastor. They’ve always said the “Church Boy” couldn’t make it in boxing because he was too nice a guy and too much of a family man.
“This is my chance to prove them, and everybody else wrong.’’
LUIS GARCIA
“It’s always been my dream to fight in the U.S., and I’m very excited that now it is happening and that it is on SHOWTIME.
“I really want to win and leave a good impression so I can fight in the states all the time. I don’t know anything about the guy I’m fighting. What I do know is that I will give my best.’’
ALEXANDER JOHNSON
“This is a great opportunity for me, fighting on SHOWTIME on such a great card like this. I am determined to come in and show what I am made of and what I can do.
“He may be a bigger name and have the credentials, but that all changes tomorrow.
“After tomorrow, when someone mentions my name, the question isn’t going to be, “who is he?’’
For information on SHOWTIME Sports Programming, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, complete telecast information and more, please go the new SHOWTIME Sports website at http://sports.sho.com/.
Boxeo TELEMUNDO Season Opener On Jan. 20th
The successful Boxeo TELEMUNDO Ford series returns in 2012 with 12 shows, with the season opener on January 20 at the recently renovated Auditorio Plaza Condesa in Mexico City. In the main event, WBO #6 contender Luis “El Chino” De La Rosa of Arboletes, Colombia (18-1-1, 10 KOs) faces former world title challenger Ivan “Pollito” Meneses (16-9-2, 9 KOs) of Puebla, Mexico in a clash scheduled for 12 Rounds with the vacant WBO Latino minimumweight title at stake. The winner of this bout will be in line to challenge WBO world champion Moises Fuentes of Mexico.
First bell at 8:30 PM, 6 mores fights round up the card. The main event will be televised live by Telemundo Network at 11:35 PM and by Televisa Deportes Network in Mexico and Central America . Tickets are already on sale at Auditorio Plaza Condesa (Juan Escutia #4, Esq. Tamaulipas and Nuevo Leon, Colonia Condesa) and also at ticketmaster.com.mx, prices are: $200 and $100 (MP). The show is being presented by Tuto Zabala’s Jr. All Star Boxing, Inc. in association with Ricardo Maldonado, Jr., Producciones Deportivas and RB Producciones.
Chavez Jr. vs. Rubio Not Sanctioned Yet By The WBC
Yesterday ticket information has been released for a February 4 clash in San Antonio between WBC middleweight world champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and mandatory challenger Marco Antonio Rubio.
Today the WBC announced that the governing WBC Rules and Regulations require a written formal petition for the sanctioning of any official WBC bout before a formal announcement takes place and ticket sales start and as of this date, the WBC has not received any communication from any promoter concerning a Chavez versus Rubio fight, although it was OK’d by the WBC that Chavez be allowed to make a voluntary defense.
According to the WBC statement, “The WBC therefore does not endorse and disapproves any public announcement or ticket sales suggesting that the WBC has sanctioned the fight, or using the WBC name or trademarks until there is full compliance with the WBC Rules and Regulations.”
Chavez Jr-Rubio, Donaire-Vazquez Jr. Tickets Go On Sale On Saturday
Undefeated World Middleweight Champion and the Son of the Legend, Julio César Chávez, Jr., and Top-Five pound-for pound fighter and three-division world champion Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire will headline a world title doubleheader, Saturday, February 4, at the Alamodome in San Antonio. Chávez Jr. will be taking on #1 contender Marco Antonio Rubio. Donaire will rumble with former junior featherweight champion Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. for the vacant WBO junior featherweight title. The fights will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing®, beginning at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT.
Photo: Top Rank Boxing
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zanfer Promotions and Tecate, tickets to the Chávez Jr. / Donaire world championship doubleheader go on sale This Saturday! December 31 at 10 a.m. CT. Tickets, priced at $200, $100, $60, $40 and $25, can be purchased at the Alamodome box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.ticketmaster.com and via Ticketmaster charge-by-phone lines at (800) 745-3000.
“In 2011, Julio Cesar Chávez Jr came into his own, winning the world middleweight title from Sebastian Zbik followed by a win in a title defense against Peter Manfredo Jr,” said Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum. “The New Year promises to be even bigger for Julio, but first he is in a difficult challenge against No. 1-ranked challenger Marco Antonio Rubio. This should be a real battle. Also on Feb 4, Nonito Donaire continues his march through the weight divisions when he takes on Wilfredo Vazquez Jr for the vacant WBO Junior Featherweight Championship.”
Chávez Jr. (44-0-1, 31 KOs), of Culiacan, México, making his first appearance in San Antonio since 2010, is the son of Mexico’s greatest fighter Julio César Chávez. Chávez, 25, took up the “family business” in 2003, winning a four-round decision in his professional debut. Eight years later, the reigning World Middleweight Champion and superior gate attraction is poised to make his own mark in the boxing world. He took a major step toward that goal by enlisting legendary trainer Freddie Roach to take him to the next level. Their first fight together was a gigantic success, a dominant 12-round unanimous decision victory over top-10 contender John Duddy (29-1, 18 KOs) in June 2010 at the Alamodome in San Antonio. After his January 29 unanimous decision win over Billy Lyell, Chávez Jr. became the second family member to win a world title, dethroning undefeated World Boxing Council (WBC) middleweight champion Sebastian Zbik via a majority decision. That June 4 slugfest took place at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles just a few blocks north of the Olympic Auditorium where the legendary Julio César Chávez won his first world title. Chávez Jr. successfully defended his title on November 19 with a fifth-round knockout of Top-Five contender Peter Manfredo at Reliant Arena in Houston.
Rubio (53-5-1, 47 KOs), of Torreon, México, enters this fight riding a two-year, 10-bout winning streak with nine of those victories coming by way of knockout. This will be Rubio’s second crack at the middleweight crown. He went nine exciting rounds in his unsuccessful challenge against unified world champion Kelly Pavlik in 2009. Since then, he has scored knockout victories of Rigoberto Alvarez and David Lemieux in WBC middleweight title elimination bouts as well as Jose Zertuche and Matt Vanda in WBC Latin America title fights en route to his No. 1 world rating.
Donaire (27-1, 18 KOs), a native of General Santos City, Philippines, now living in the Bay Area of San Leandro, Calif., is a consensus top-five pound for pound fighter. He enters this fight riding a nine-year, 26-bout winning streak, which includes an IBF/IBO flyweight title knockout victory of defending champion Vic Darchinyan, and a fourth-round blasting of former WBA bantamweight champion Wladimir Sidorenko, December 4, 2010. However, Donaire’s most impressive victory occurred on February 19, when he knocked out defending WBC/WBO bantamweight champion Fernando Montiel in the second round, ending Montiel’s 25-bout winning streak while also claiming his third world title in as many weight divisions. That victory has been named the 2011 Knockout of the Year. Ten of Donaire’s last 12 victories have come by way of knockout. In his last fight, Donaire successfully defended his World Bantamweight Championship blitzing undefeated Omar Narvaez and winning virtually every round en route to a unanimous decision win.
Vazquez (21-1-1, 18 KOs), of Bayamon, Puerto Rico, strung together a four-year, 21-bout unbeaten streak, beginning with his pro debut, culminating with Vazquez winning the WBO junior featherweight championship. Vazquez captured the world title in 2010, knocking out Marvin Sonsona in the fourth round. He successfully defended the title twice during the following eight months, scoring knockouts of Zsolt Bedak and Ivan Hernandez in the 10th and 11th rounds, respectively. After losing the title to Jorge Arce in May, he bounced back in October with a third-round knockout of Roberto Leyva.
Ahmet Oner: "Boxing In Germany Is Officially Dead", Plans To Pull Out Of Promoting In Germany
German promoter Ahmet Oner, head of ARENA Boxing Promotions, has declared that “boxing in Germany is officially dead” and that he plans to pull out of promoting in Germany. Now recognized as an international promoter, Oner currently lives in Miami and Istanbul, Turkey. “I have worked with [Yuriorkis] Gamboa, one of the best and most spectacular boxers in the world, who had a super reception in the U.S. and with whom I earn a lot of money there. Odlanier Solis will come back and make his comeback in the United States. Selcuk Aydin can fight in America or Turkey. Germany does not interest me anymore.”
Dyah Ali Davis Fighting Way Out Of Father Howard's Shadow
BOCA RATON, Florida (December 28, 2011) - Super middleweight contender "Dangerous" Dyah Ali Davis (20-2-1, 9 KOs) is fighting his way out of the long shadow cast by his father, Howard Davis Jr., who captured a gold medal and was selected Outstanding Boxer of the 1976 Olympic Games in Montreal.
Photo: Tom Hill Photos
Dyah had hoop dreams until realizing in high school that he wasn't heading to the NBA. Despite his pedigree, he didn't even think about boxing until he was 23, after watching the Lennox Lewis-Vitali Klitschko fight, which convinced him that he should become a prize fighter.
Seven years later, he's the No. 9 rated 168-pounder by the World Boxing Council ("WBC") and World Boxing Association ("WBA"), preparing to headline the first ESPN Friday Night Fight broadcast of 2012, January 6 in against Alfonso "The Tiger" Lopez (22-1, 17 KOs) in Key West, Florida.
Photo: Tom Hill Photos
Howard was one of the greatest amateur boxers of all-time. A three-time U.S. National lightweight champion, he won 125 of 130 overall matches, including the 1974 World Championships. Even more significantly, though, he was the brightest star on the fabulous USA Olympic Boxing Team, also featuring fellow gold medalists Sugar Ray Leonard, Michael and Leon Spinks, and Leo Randolph.
The only absence on his otherwise impeccable boxing resume is lack of a world title as a professional. Howard had a 36-6-1 (14 KOs) pro record in the eighties and fought three times. for the world title, losing a 1980 decision to Jim Watt in Scotland, dropping a 12-round split decision in 1984 to Edwin Rosario in Puerto Rico, and getting stopped in 1988 by James "Buddy" McGirt.
Neither father nor son, however, has ever talked about what really fuels Dyah's desire to capture a world title. In fact, learning about his son's reason brought Howard to tears. "Winning a world title is what I want for me and him," Dyah said. "When I do that we can cherish it together. I don't think either one of us will be happier or prouder than the other when that day comes.
"Ultimately, that's why I set out to do (win a world title), what my father fell short of. I do believe he really won the fight against Rosario. My father is the uncrowned champ and I want that crown for our family. I hope to have that opportunity by the end of 2012, early 2013 at the latest. Two or three more fights but we'll be better to gauge that timetable after my next fight."
Dyah understands but doesn't feel added pressure being the son of a famous boxer. "Fans expect so much from you because you are your father's son," he admitted, "but I don't even think about that anymore. My father had his career and now it's my turn. The bottom line is it's good to know I have his support and can learn from his experiences."
Howard was surprised when Dyah called years ago saying he wanted to become a boxer. Dyah, who now lives in Fort Lauderdale, moved from New York to South Florida in order to train with his father. Howard is a personal/boxing trainer at the famed MMA gym, America Top Team, in Coconut Creek, Florida.
"I would have been the first to tell Dyah that he didn't have it to box," Howard commented. "I do see a lot of me in him: heart and determination. He doesn't quit, trains hard, and never complains. Sometimes I get a little frustrated watching him because he doesn't see some things I see, but then I remember that he didn't have any amateur experience at all. Dyah is very dedicated."
Howard didn't know his son is driven to succeed, where he failed, winning a world title. "He's never mentioned that and I never wanted him to win a world title for me," Howard continued. "I want him to win it for himself. If that's motivation for him, great, and the day he accomplishes that goal will be a blessing for both of us. I'm extremely close to my son and love him a lot. I'm very emotional and to hear this.... it's making me cry. I'm touched by his words."
Howard no longer trains his son, two-time world champion John David Jackson is Dyah's chief second. He's promoted by DiBella Entertainment and managed by EDB Sports (Elvis Crespo and Bob Pergament).
One person in Davis' corner has a unique perspective about 30-year-old Dyah, Craig Gibson, who trained Howard for several of his pro fights. They grew-up together and remain best friends. Over the years, Gibson has worked with world champions Aaron Pryor, Mike McCallum, Riddick Bowe and Livingstone Bramble, to name a few of the more notables.
"Dyah's got the DNA," noted Gibson, who is Davis' assistant trainer. "He has his father's high intelligence and athleticism. Dyah is so gifted. He has the ability of a world-class athlete but ability and skills are different. When his ability and skill level are balanced, he will be an elite boxer and, I believe, world champion in a year or so. He's also a classy young man, just like his father. "
The journey continues for Dyah Ali Davis.
(Fans can follow Dyah on Twitter @dyahalidavis)
Morales Unable To Defend Against Garcia, No Word On Whether Jan. 28th Card Will Go On
WBC super lightweight champion Erik Morales will be unable to defend against Danny Garcia on January 28 in Houston. Morales hoped to go through with the fight despite gallbladder surgery last week, but his doctor recommended against it. Junior middleweights James Kirkland and Carlos Molina were to meet in the HBO-televised opener. Golden Boy Promotions has not made an announcement yet as to whether the card will go as scheduled without Morales, rescheduled or cancelled.
Dannie Williams Preparing To KO Hank Lundy & Take His NABF Lightweight Title Belt
ST. LOUIS (December 27, 2011) - The most dangerous puncher in the lightweight division, World Boxing Council ("WBC") Continental Americas champion Dannie Williams, sooner rather than later, plans to add the North American Boxing Federation ("NABF") belt to his growing collection.
Photo: Tom Hill Photos
The NABF crown is presently worn by flashy Philadelphia boxer "Hammerin" Hank Lundy (21-1-1, 11 KOs). The NABF ruled that Lundy make his mandatory title defense against the top contender, No. 2 rated Williams (No. 1 is unrated), but Williams' co-promoters, Rumble Time Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, were unable to successfully negotiate a deal with Lundy's promoter, Classic Entertainment and Sports.
The NABF has ordered a purse bid to be held January 4 with a 60-40 split in favor of the reigning champion (Lundy). Lundy vs. Williams has been tentatively scheduled for March, pending the outcome of the purse bid and, of course, Lundy accepting the challenge.
Photo: Tom Hill Photos
The 27-year-old Williams (20-1, 16 KOs), fighting out of St. Louis, has been dominant in his last four fights, respectively defeating Manuel Leyva (KO1), Oscar Cuero (DEC10), Antonio Cervantes (KO4) and John Willoughby (KO2).
What separates the multi-talented Williams from other lightweight contenders is his pure knockout power. Fans watching his fight last August against Cervantes on ESPN Friday Night Fights saw Williams' unbridled punching power, resulting in a devastating knockout that was the No. 1 highlight on the ESPN Sportscenter countdown.
"I'm looking forward to this fight," WBC #11rated Williams said. "It's a great opportunity for me. Lundy's a good fighter who comes to fight. I like him as a fighter, I really do, but he's been knocked out and dropped a few times.
"I'm a knockout puncher with 16 KOs in my 20 wins. I'm not talking about TKOs when the ref stops the fight. (Half of Dannie's stoppages have been pure KOs, including his last three.) The refs don't even start counting because they know my opponent is hurt. I know Lundy's going to try and use his speed, but I can box with him, and I hit extra hard. I hurt guys I fight. Lundy can talk all he wants but that's going to happen to him, too."
Photo: Tom Hill Photos
Williams is scheduled to fight January 6 in Key West, Florida in an eight-round bout against Mexican veteran Fernando "The Thief" Trejo (33-17-6, 19 KOs), who has only been stopped once, by Bobby Pacquiao, in his pro career.
"Dannie wants to fight the best lightweights in the world," Rumble Star Promotions president Steve Smith commented. "He won't dodge anyone. This is a fight fans will love to see -- two guys who fight, not dance. Sometimes, I think, people forget we're in the entertainment business and that fans make our business.
"The winner of this fight should be fighting for a world title by the end of 2012. I know the hardest puncher in the 135-pound division is 'Dangerous Dannie.' If Lundy thought (John) Molina could punch, just wait until he feels the power in both of Williams' hands. He won't be able to get up like he did against Molina. They'll have to quickly get the paramedics and doctor into the ring. With a chin like Lundy's, well, let's say I'm frightened for him."
Rated among the top 11 in three of the major governing bodies, as high as No. 4 in the WBC, Lundy is the former NABO lightweight champion who lost that crown 14 months ago, when he was stopped by Molina on ESPN Friday Night Fights in the 11th round. Two fights later, Lundy defeated Patrick Lopez by 10-round decision for the vacant NABF title. In his first title defense this past August, Lundy got off the mat in the fourth to knockout David Diaz in the sixth.
"I can't wait for this fight," Williams' trainer Jack Loew remarked. "It's a great opportunity for Dannie. I think Hank Lundy is totally overrated. He's been matched very carefully; they've done a great job with him. He's a good fighter with some skills, but, if you fight somebody like Dannie Williams, you better not have a weak chin like Lundy's. Everybody saw what happened when he stepped-up against Molina. Diaz hurt him and he's not even much of a puncher.
"We're ready to fight Lundy and I hope he takes on Dannie. He will not take a chin-check from Dannie Williams and for that the reason, unfortunately, I can't see them taking this fight. I honestly believe we're going to end-up fighting for the vacant NABF title."
Go online to www.RumbleTimePromotions.com for more information about Williams or any of his Rumble Time Promotions stable-mates.
Unbeaten Prospects Michael Perez & Omar Figueroa Set To Meet In ShoBox Co-Feature On Jan. 6th
LOS ANGELES, December 27 - The Friday, Jan. 6 edition of ShoBox: The New Generation on SHOWTIME promises to kickoff 2012 with yet another night of competitive prospect action as Golden Boy Promotions announced today that the co-featured fight will be another intriguing matchup in the 135-pound weight class pitting unbeaten prospects Michael Perez and Omar Figueroa Jr. against each other in a 10 round battle for the WBO Inter-Continental Youth Lightweight Title. The night of boxing is headlined by the NABA USA Lightweight Title fight between Luis Ramos Jr. and Raymundo Beltran at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif.
Ramos vs. Beltran and Perez vs. Figueroa are presented by Golden Boy Promotions, sponsored by Corona, DeWalt Tools and AT&T and will be televised live on ShoBox: The New Generation at 11:00 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast) on SHOWTIME.
Tickets, priced at $25, $35 and $45, are on sale now and available for purchase at the Fantasy Springs Box Office, by calling (800) 827-2946 or online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com. Doors at Fantasy Springs will open at 6:00pm PT on fight night and the first bell rings at 6:30pm PT.
A native of Newark, New Jersey, 21-year-old phenom Michael "The Artist" Perez (15-0-1, 9 KO's) went from local hero to one of the brightest prospects in boxing with four statement-making knockout victories in 2011. Included in these four knockouts were wins over then 24-4 Ira Terry and then 24-8 Tyrone Harris, proving that the former National Golden Gloves Champion was ready for primetime as a professional and on Jan. 6, he will get his chance to shine on ShoBox against fellow prospect Figueroa.
22-year-old Omar "Panterita" Figueroa (13-0-1, 10 KO's) is a ferocious puncher whose ability to take out any opponent in his path at any time has made him a fan favorite in his home state of Texas. In 2011, the Weslaco native took his show on the road, sandwiching a June decision win over Eric Cruz in Hidalgo with out of town knockouts over John Figueroa and Marcos Herrera in Los Angeles and Chicago, respectively. On Jan. 6, he'll continue his U.S. tour with a bout in Indio against Perez.
A full undercard will be announced shortly. For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.fantasyspringsresort.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.twitter.com/fantasysprings or visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing or www.facebook.com/fantasysprings.
Rahman Is Povetkin's Mandatory Challenger, Not Marco Huck
Responding to news of a supposed showdown between WBA Champion Alexander Povetkin and WBO Cruiserweight Champion Marco Huck scheduled for February 25, Greg Cohen, promoter of former unified heavyweight champion and current World Boxing Association (WBA) #1 contender and mandatory challenger Hasim Rahman, wishes to remind representatives of Povetkin and Huck (and anyone else who claims to be fighting Povetkin next), that Hasim Rahman will be Povetkin's next opponent.
"Rahman is Povetkin's mandatory. Povetkin already had an optional defense against Cedric Boswell." explained Cohen. "I have the letter from the WBA. Povetkin has until February 27 to fight against Rahman. The only way they could fight Marco Huck is if we stepped aside and we're NOT stepping aside."
The letter, from Gilberto Jesus Mendoza, Executive Vice President of the World Boxing Association, clearly states that "...According to rule 13 title matches are limited to a sixty-day period expiration date starting from December 27, 2011 in which the World Champion or official contender are forbid (sic) to participate in a different bout. The first 30 days would be considered as the free negotiation period."
Cohen says he doesn't know who is behind the stories and releases being put out to the contrary, but there is no doubt about what will happen on Team Rahman's end. "There have been several erroneous reports about Hasim fighting someone else or of someone else fighting Alexander Povetkin. We wish to state for the record that Hasim Rahman fully intends to enforce his mandatory status and face Alexander Povetkin early next year.
The Return Of BJ Flores Plus Cory Spinks- Sechew Powell Elimination Bout On Jan. 28th
SPRINGFIELD, MO (DECEMBER 26, 2011)--Tom Morris and FM promotions is glad to team up with Danger boy events/BJ Flores and Don King Productions for two important fights on January 28th. This event will take place at the Shrine Mosque in Springfield Missouri and is starting to turn into a very entertaining night of fighting. Five professional boxing matches as well as two professional MMA matches will make this a can’t miss event for the people in Springfield, Missouri. #3 WBO world rated Cruiserweight BJ Flores will headline in the main event and Cory Spinks and Sechew Powell face off in an important IBF Jr. Middleweight eliminator fight. Flores is starting to put Springfield, Missouri on the map as far as boxing goes, and he is building an increasingly large fan base in the Springfield area. Flores sold out the last event at the O’Reily Events Center and looks to do the same thing again at the Shrine Mosque on January 28th.
Five- time world champion Cory "Next Generation" Spinks will take on former title challenger and #4 IBF World rated Sechew "Iron Horse" Powell in a pivotal fight for both fighters in their respective careers. The winner will face Cornelius Bundrage for the IBF world title on the next fight and Don King has ensured that this fight will in fact take place on the BJ Flores card on January 28th. Spinks is hoping to fight for his 6th world title with a win over the very talented Powell.
WBO #3 World rated and NABO and NABA US champion as well as WBC Continental Americas champion BJ Flores, is in heavy training for his North American championship fight on January 28th. Flores will also be fighting for the recently vacated NABF title that was given up by Nigerian World Rated Lateef Kayode in place of facing the Flores. This will be Flores third North American title fight in the last 6 months and is starting to turn some heads with the large crowds that have showed up for his July and October fights. The world rated Flores has kept a very active schedule and his recent signing with iconic promoter Don King has seem to put a bounce in his step.
Flores says, "It is an honor to have two fighters like Cory and Sechew fight on my card on January 28th in Springfield, Missouri. When I got the call from Don yesterday he told me it was a done deal. I have grown up fighting with both of these guys and have followed their careers and this is sure to be a great addition to the card and a very exciting fight for the people in Springfield, Missouri. The fans in Missouri are very energetic and I couldn’t think of a better place to stage this important elimination fight!" Flores goes on to say “I will be fighting for the third time in six months and I’m just doing what I love to do. We have offered this fight to top American contenders Andres Taylor 21-1, Aaron Williams 21-3, James Cermack 17-2, Jeremiah Graziano 15-0 and Ed Perry 18-4. We hope to have an opponent nailed down by the end of the week."
When asked if Flores was disappointed in Lateef Kayode vacating the NABF title instead of facing him Flores said, “I understand boxing is a business. My attitude has changed. I want to fight often and the best opponents possible. After my loss to Danny Green I immediately wanted to fight a big name guy in the states. I wanted Kayode and he refused to fight me. I won the NABO interim title and instead of facing me he vacated the NABO title and I became full champion. When I moved into the #1 spot by the NABF and President Joe Dwyer informed Team Kayode that he had to face me next they said “we appreciate the opportunity but we will be vacating the title. So, I’m used to it. I’m just glad Mr. King has gotten behind this big event and is helping us promote and make it big!! Don is coming back and so am I!!"
One thing for sure is that the fans of Springfield, Missouri are in for a real treat on January 28th. The fight will be held at the historic Shrine Mosque and tix can be purchased at the Box office or on Metrotix. 1-800-293- 5949 for tickets.
Martinez, WBC Approve Voluntary Defense By Chavez Jr.
During it's annual convention, the WBC ordered Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. to defend his middleweight title against diamond title holder Sergio Martinez. However, Chavez is currently being scheduled for a bout on February 4. Thus, the WBC, as well as Sergio Martinez, approved the request by Chavez to have a voluntary defense in Febraury, but his next bout must be against Martinez.
In addition, Martinez is planning to fight in March, with the hopes that the bout against Chavez will take place soon thereafter.
Huck vs Alexander Feb. 25
It was announced on Friday that Marco Huck will face Alexander Povetkin in a heavyweight bout, set to take place on February 25 in Stuttgart, Germany. The bout will be for Povetkin's WBA title.
Pavlik Arrested, Pleads Not Guilty
Former world title holder Kelly Pavlik was arrested this week after being charged with driving an all-terrain vehicle while intoxicated. Pavlik reportedly hit a telephone pole and lamppost. A plea of not guilty was entered and a pre-trial hearing is set for January 13.
Hernandez-Cunningham Rematch Set For February 4
A rematch between Yoan Pablo Hernandez and Steve Cunningham will take place February 4. The mandated rematch will take place in Frankfurt, Germany. Hernandez dethroned Cunningham via a controversial sixth round technical decision on October 1st.
Surgery Puts Morales Bout In Question
The status for Erik Morales' next bout is in question after the junior welterweight champ underwent gallbladder surgery earlier this week. Morales is scheduled to defend his title against Danny Garcia on January 28 in Houston, TX and live on HBO.
A decision as to whether Morales will go through with the bout will be made in the coming days.
DC Mayor To Present Lamont Peterson A Key To The City
Washington DC Mayor Vincent C. Gray will officially congratulate WBA/IBF super lightweight boxing champion Lamont Peterson and present him with a key to the city on Thursday for his December 10 upset win over Amir Khan. The ceremony will take place at 1PM in the 1st Floor Grand Lobby of the John A. Wilson Building (1350 Pennsylvania Avenue NW). Other Participants will include DC Council Chairman Kwame Brown, Events DC President/CEO Greg O’Dell, DC Boxing and Wrestling Commission Chairman Bryan Scottie Irving, trainer Barry Hunter and pro boxer brother Anthony Peterson. Lamont is a native Washingtonian who resides in Ward 7.
Amir Khan & Richard Schaefer Conference Call Transcript
Monica Sears
Thank you, Christa. I'd like to thank everyone for taking time out of their morning, or afternoon, to join us for today's call which has the CEO of Golden Boys Promotion, Richard Schaefer on the line, as well as Amir Khan, and Amir's business manager Asif Vali.
At this time I'd like to send the call to Richard who will introduce everyone and give some opening statements about the fight that occurred on December 10th. Richard?
Richard Schaefer
Thank you very much, Monica, and thank you all for being on this call. I know it's a holiday week for many and I really appreciate that you guys are taking time out of your schedule. I'd like make some opening marks, remarks, walk you quickly through where we stand and what the next steps are, um, as it relates to Amir and the fight and everything, and then turn it over for Amir for some comments and then opening it up for questions.
Well, first of all let me state that the purpose of this call is in no way or shape to attack or question the performance of Lamont Peterson and his team. I think Lamont fought a very good fight, it was an exciting fight. In fact, many people feel it was another fight of the year candidate, so this is absolutely nothing about taking anything away from Lamont Peterson. It is simply to look at the facts, present the facts, and give the people involved an opportunity to correct their mistakes. It's basically about doing the right thing.
So let's look at these facts. Let's look where we stand. There was clearly controversy after the fight on this scoring. I've ha, have hardly ever seen uh, the, the time it took for tabulating this card and announcing the decision. That was very strange in itself.
Then you look at the official card, which showed initially a 10/10 on the scorecard of George Hill for round seven. It was later crossed out and changed to an 8/10 in favor of Peterson. Then you look at the WBC's WBA supervisor, Michael Walsh, who is a certified public accountant and CPA by profession, and probably the man with the most experience that night sitting ringside there.
Certainly from an accounting point of view, but as well from a fight official point of view, he was involved in many other championship fights before. And he kept, as it is customary, a WBA master score sheet which used as an input the same information as the District of Columbia Boxing Commission used for their scorecard. It's basically the individual per rounds score slips, which are collected from the referee and then supposed to be given to the Commission.
So the Commission keeps the master score sheet, so does the WBA, and so does the IBF. Therefore the results would be the same, right, because they all use the same information. Well shockingly it was not, it was different. It was the same for the scorecard of Nelson Vasquez, who had it for Khan, and it was the same for Valerie Dorsett, who had it for Peterson, but somehow George Hill's card had it a draw. Therefore the WBA showed on their card that the fight was a draw.
Dave Itskowitch, our Chief Operating Officer and certainly one of the most honest and straight-forward people I have ever met, and all of those, those of you who know him, certainly would agree with me. He actually saw the card, the official WBA card with his own eyes right after the fight. And the WBA's not disputing that the WBA card is different from the official, ah, from the official card.
Now what happened with the IBF card, with the IBF master score card? It was gone after the fight. Funny enough, it disappeared. When I talked to Lindsey Tucker on Monday morning, Lindsey Tucker is the IBF official, I asked him what happened, he said that the IBF supervisor who was there for the fight told him that it disappeared, that it seems to him that the District of Columbia took it while he was in the ring presenting Peterson with the belt.
Then suddenly two days ago, an IBF scorecard appeared. It looks as it was made up after the fact, no question about it or was made about, yeah, two days. The printing was way too neat and consistent, not consistent with what usually a scorecard looks like. So, we're not, we're just, as I said before, we're just outlining the facts here. Ah, there clearly is some smoke as it relates to the scorecards and you know the old saying, where there is smoke there is fire.
Now let's move on to the points deductions. There are serious issues with these point deductions. First of all there were clearly no fouls. Even Lamont Peterson acknowledged in the post-fight interview that the push, that the push-off from Amir did not bother him at all.
There are no provisions in the rules related to pushing. In fact the uniform rules of the Association of Boxing Commission do not mention pushing or even excessive pushing as a foul. Even fellow referees, some of the veterans in the sport and they never; believe me, they never second guess a colleagues performance, had issue with referee Cooper's point deductions and the way he handled that fight.
Several news stories to that effect were published in the last few days and you can read about outspoken comments from fellow referees. There was clearly no basis for one point and certainly, absolutely none for two-point deductions. The fact is that the ref performed one of the worst cases of home cooking I have ever seen. The fact is that Amir complained during the fight about the excessive and continued use of the head by Peterson and coming in low, head first. The ref realized that and warned Peterson.
Let me just briefly walk you through the fight at the relevant warnings from the ref to Peterson, and again, I'm not making this stuff up. You guys can go and watch the tape yourself if you don't believe me. Rounds two, referee warned three times, keep your head up, keep your head up. Round four, one warning; get your head up. Round five; keep your head up, son. Round six, five of the rounds the ref warned Barry Hunter; anymore of that and I will take a point away. He went on to warn him two more times in that round six.
At 2:04 seconds remaining, Amir looked at the ref and complained about Peterson's head. Round eight, again keep your head up Peterson, one warning. Round 10, 2:20, 2:44 seconds remaining, Amir looks up and again complains about the low blow. Three more warnings; get your head off him. Let go, keep your head off him, keep your head up. Round 11, two more warnings, another complaint from Amir at the close of the round. Twelfth round; ah, again one warning; break, keep your head up. And again Amir complained about the Peterson head.
So the inconsistency, the inconsistency is absolutely shocking. The ref didn't deduct any points, but if this is not home cooking I don't know what is. It's clear, and I mean very clear, that after the first round that Amir was fighting not one, but two people in the ring. Now again, you can't blame Peterson for that, and we're not blaming Peterson, has nothing to do with Peterson.
The fact is the ref didn't do his job, worse, he did a shitty job. Now people make mistakes, and I believe in giving them an opportunity to correct the situation. These points are razor fact, we don't make them up. They're clear and unquestionable facts. This decision has to be corrected. I hope that they were just honest mistakes and the truth will prevail and the result be corrected. Anything but, would be another black eye, for the sports, the sanction organization and the District of Columbia.
Now for those people who have suggested; why did you go to the guy's hometown, why did they go to Washington? We would never take a fight there. You know you have these Sunday morning quarterbacks voicing and making these kinds of comments.
Well, let me start by stating that if in fact somebody cannot get a fair decision in our nation's capital, then we have a much bigger problem, a problem which is not fixed by simply ignoring it or not going back there for another 20 years or so. The problem and the issue has to be addressed. It has to be addressed by the District of Columbia Boxing Commission, as well as by the IBF and the WBA.
I refuse to believe that fighters cannot get a fair shake in Washington, D.C. It's not fair to the great fans of Washington, which came out in huge numbers and to the sport. This is exactly why we have filed the appeal with the Commission and with the two sanctioning organizations. They have an opportunity and an obligation to do the right thing.
I sure hope that for the sake of the fans and the sport that they will do the right thing, which is to overturn the decision and, or order, at least, at worst, order an immediate rematch. By the way, I got an update; we have filed these appeals and we got an update for the IBF and the WBA will order an appeal to happen in the beginning of January, I think it's January 18th and 19th, uh, in New York.
Now talking about doing the right thing. Lamont Peterson and his team have an opportunity as well, to do the right thing. They agreed after the fight that they would do a rematch. They told the HBO announcers and fight fans around the world that they have no problem doing the rematch next.
I personally talked to Team Peterson right after the fight and Barry Hunter told me the same. No issues, no problem to do the rematch, that it was a pleasure to work with us and that they have no problem giving Amir the rematch. I understand that, Lamont mentioned that to Amir as well, even when they were sitting next, next, next to each other at the hospital getting checked up after the fight.
I went immediately to work and was able to secure May 19th from Staple Center in Los Angeles. Not in Washington, not in the United Kingdom, on mutual grounds; a date, a date which will give both fighters enough time to get ready and to do it again. I talked to Team Peterson subsequently and made them a seven figure offer and we are waiting to hear back from them. Again, this will be a much anticipated fight, this is the fight, fight fans, the boxing world sports fans want to see, so let's get it done again.
Again, very, very important that, and very clear here, this is not about sour grapes, it's not attacking Lamont Peterson any way or shape, it comes back to like Lamont and his team, there's nothing, we don't want to take anything away from him, but have a setback, what we want is we want, we want fairness and we believe that that's the right thing to do to get the fight going again.
I'd like to hand it over now to Amir for any additional comments and thoughts, and then we're going to open it up to the media. Amir?
Amir Khan
Yes, thank you, Richard. You know I watched the fight and I've seen a few things in the fight I wasn't happy about. Well probably about five times I saw the fight and, there are a lot of warnings in there and stuff and the head and everything and I did tell the referee at times, well it seemed to me that there was no one there to help me.
I'm not taking anything away from Lamont Peterson. He fought a great performance and he was strong and he was, he put on, you have to do what you do. You know he stuck to his game plan and we spoke after the fight and him and his team were very respectful. But I think I deserve a fair chance of a fair fight somewhere neutral and I'm willing to come back to the U.S. and put a fight on there, but never in Washington again.
You know, I think it's just people that are going to be very disappointed, especially the fans in Washington because we brought the fight in the Capital, we brought boxing back there with that performance, and with the unfair judging and unfair referee. I think it just puts boxing on a low.
But, like I said, overall it was a great fight and I hope Lamont Peterson does give me the rematch like he did say he's going to give me, and the rematch I think I deserve and, you know, I know definitely if the fight, if the fight was judged and refereed fairly, I know I'll still be the world champion and, you know, I really think I was just judged unfairly.
I mean every time I watch the fight because the time in the fight where you know about the referee making mistakes and he's not on my side. But I mean you have to put these things behind you and I just hope that the Commission and also the IBF and the WBA will watch this and hopefully see my complaint and they come back and hopefully fix all this. So it's in the hands of the WBC.
I saw it over the air, and the IBF, and also the Commission, so let's see where we go from there. And I'll go out and by trying my very best to get this solved. Also my team have been trying very very hard to get this sorted out. But you know it's taking time and I'm just going to stay focused and, you know, overall it was a great fight. I mean one of the best fights of the year, and everywhere I've been going and everywhere I've been going in England, everyone's been saying I got robbed. Not even in England, but everywhere I went in the Washington people were saying I got robbed even his own fans.
They said look, there were people in Washington saying look, you come to D.C. and we robbed you. You know, that's what they're saying, but you know, end of the day all I want is a fair fight. I mean, you know, I want a rematch just to prove to the world I wasn't treated fairly and off we go from there.
I'm sure Lamont Peterson has watched the fight as well and he understands and now maybe that's the reason he's not coming back and he's not returning calls to Golden Boy Promotions about the rematch. But I think, you know, the IBF and the WBA should order a rematch in my opinion, and also look at the fight the way it was, the referee. So let's just see where we go from here and overall it was a great performance from Lamont Peterson also.
I mean I tried, I put on a good performance as well, we both were, you know, we both were happy with it, the way we fought and everything, but it was just the referee and the judges who spoiled a great night of boxing. So, you know, I don't know if there's going to be a fight in D.C. again. I hope there is, because I hope they do fix the judging and the referring, but let's just see where we go from there.
Q.
Now are you, are you seeking to have this overturned, or would you want a rematch Richard?
Richard Schaefer
Well, I mean we believe that there are enough grounds to get it overturned, that's our first priority. But as I said at the very least, really there should be no, there shouldn't even be a question about it; there shouldn't really be an argument about it. An immediate rematch should be ordered.
Q.
Richard, did you find, I know the procedure with the IBF is $10,000 and they go through an appeals process. What was the process, what do you understand is the process with the WBA you filed with them?
Richard Schaefer
Well it's similar, it's a little bit less money, but the fact is appeals are expensive and if we wouldn't be as convinced as we are that this is, there's really, it should be a slam dunk. We obviously wouldn't go through that, but, we are convinced it is, and yes, so with our appeals we did enclose the appropriate fees, which you were correct, a $10,000 in the case of the IBF and it's a little bit less in case of the WBA.
Q.
Okay, a little bit less, huh? And you said you expect both decisions, you've been notified that both decisions will be completed? Did they give you an exact date in January?
Richard Schaefer
Well they have suggested as a matter of fact this morning, the IBF did, January 19th as the date and so I will be talking to the WBA. I talked to them yesterday and they were actually suggesting to me to do the hearing in the beginning of January in New York, so I'm going to be communicating the dates that we can somehow do that during the same time when, um, when the various parties are going to be on the East Coast to take care of this.
Q.
And, if they do order the immediate rematch, will your offer still stand to, Lamont the seven figures, or will that--?
Richard Schaefer
Well you know I mean we are honorable people. The Khan's are very honorable people and so are we, so yes, we really hope that we don't even have to go through lawyers and we can just get this fight done; end of story. But it seems to me that we have to go that route, we're prepared to go that route. And, yes, we just, you know, we're treating people right and I hope, I hope that the Peterson's will do the same.
Q.
Have you gotten any cooperation or any feedback? Have you been able to contact anybody with the D.C. Commission?
Richard Schaefer
We have filed the appropriate paperwork, we have not heard back from them. Obviously this is as we saw that night, it is not a very experienced Commission, and we are, our attorneys are working on securing the date for the appeal with them as well that we can be heard in front of them.
Q.
Yeah, can you talk about your emotions after the fight? I know you were before the fight you really wanted to be at D.C., you had the whole experience with Senator Clinton and you were welcomed there. Obviously that night you were very emotional and you said some things. Can you talk about just the process of how you felt before the fight, how you felt the night of the fight, and I have to ask; Glen McCrory, one of the champions from England said that perhaps you shouldn't have been as harsh with your comments and that maybe since then, just about D.C. in general, you may have thought differently about some of the things you said.
Amir Khan
Well, you know first of all, you know, before the fight we were in good shape and we were very confident with the fight and, you know, I wasn't looking too far ahead. I mean I was just stick to it, you know, doing what I could do, I listened to Freddy and everything and we were ready for the fight. The fight happened. And we didn't get the decision and everything, we were unhappy with the refereeing and the way I was judged and all I wanted was a fair fight really.
And I thought being in the fight at D.C., it would bring more bigger fights in D.C. D.C. hasn't had a big fight there for such a long time I thought maybe this is a way, this could be the time near where we can bring the big super fights to D.C. now and the world of boxing will use D.C. as a great venue because the fans were great, I mean, I met all fans after the fight and they were so nice and they came over to me and showed me a lot of respect and they're all honest.
There's a lot of peace and fans that come over to me and said to me, "Look, we know you won the fight but you know it was one of them things you fought Peterson in his home town." And I'm here to get a message to all the boxers who are on the same level, I'm not going to mention no names, and they've also said to me, "We're never going to fight in D.C. If we ever get the option to fight in D.C. we'll never go there and fight there because if this is what, if that's what, if this is what happens in D.C., then we're not, we're not going to go there." I think it's bad for boxing what happened.
You know I'm not taking nothing away from Lamont Peterson, but I think it's just bad for boxing what happened the way I was judged and that's just going to put boxing, especially in D.C. really really low. You know, no one will want to fight there. I mean I wouldn't go back there again to fight there because if you're not going to get treated fairly then there's no point for fighting there. First of all, I'm fighting away from home anyway, I'm fighting in America, and even though I'm from England, I'm fighting for the fans even to go to fight away from home and then get robbed, that's what hurts more.
And people have a lot of respect for me to fight away from home at such a young age and defending my world title and everything. But when you fight someone in his home state you think at least be fair. You know I've shown up with the balls, I've shown the balls by going there and fighting him there, so why not be fair? Just get me, you know, Golden Boy, and my team have been great, they have just been, speaking to the IBF to find a way to fix this because you know I don't think it should happen in boxing. We want it to be fair, we want to be fair in sport.
We want, boxing, I mean it's one of the biggest sports in world, but we just want fair, we just want everyone to be fair and we're not getting that, I mean, especially the judging and the referee on that night, I think it was really really bad. You know, everyone who saw the fight in the U.K. were appalled. They were disgusted with the referee and the judging and the, now, you know, that's only going to pop people off boxing.
Q.
Wonderful. Richard, it seems like this is just the latest in a series of incidents that we've seen in the sport this year with questionable calls from referees and judges. I think back to Amir's fight with Zab Judah in Vegas where Judah complained. I think, of course to the Agbeko Mares fight in Vegas with Russell Mora, the Hopkins Dawson fight in L.A, the Ortiz Mayweather controversy and Pacquiao Marquez decision. And now we've got Amir's situation in D.C.
Is this just a bigger thing than just that one night? Do you think that sport, there's a sys, a systemic problem right now in boxing throughout in terms of refereeing and judging?
Richard Schaefer
Well, I really think that maybe the time has come to have the refereeing; the ref is an important part of the fight, and I think if the ref is injecting himself too much into a fight, and or doesn't have the proper training and experience, it obviously is an issue because there's so much at stake. So I do think that there is a lack of proper training for referees and frankly for judges as well. And I think that you're absolutely right.
I mean the whole year was a horrible year from an officiating point of view and I think something has to done about that. But at the very least, people have to be held accountable for their actions and I refuse to say that to believe even that this ref was corrupt, but what it is, is people make mistakes. As I said, you saw at the Hopkins Dawson fight, the ref acknowledged at the hearing that he didn't see it; he had a chance now to review the tape and he saw that he made the wrong call and he corrected it, you know.
That is what should happen, and this is not about, all were turning all the decisions or so, it is about doing the right thing, you know, that like it was the case in other sports, maybe instant replay should be introduced for some of the questionable calls. And there's definitely going to have to be something done to educate and further the officials and refs and so you're absolutely right, I think it is part of bigger picture. The IBF by the way, you mentioned Mares Agbeko, uh, where some of those calls were missed as well; the low blows--
Q.
They ordered a rematch.
Richard Schaefer
And they ordered a rematch and here it's clear again, I don't have to walk you through it, but it was 14 or 15 times that the ref actually warned Peterson for coming in low with his head, the ref even went into Peterson's corner, I mentioned it before, warned Barry Hunter, one more there's going to be a point deduction for Peterson, well it never happened. Peterson continued to do it and got away with it.
And, you know, in a way when you look at the Mares fight, there were no warnings and Mares got away with it and he kept on, you know, doing it because it didn't have any consequences. So Peterson kept going in low with the head, Amir had to push him off because the ref didn't do anything about it.
And again, so I really would be shocked, and I mean you can print shocked in capital letters if the IBF is not going to, is going to be so inconsistent, but ordering a rematch for Mares Agbeko just a couple of months ago and denying a rematch of this fight. I mean I would be shocked and I would seriously, and I mean you can put seriously in capital letters as well, question the idea of what the hell is going on.
Q.
Yes, because this whole thing with that scorecard disappearing that night seems very suspicious at the very least.
Richard Schaefer
Where there is smoke there is fire.
Q.
Yeah. Amir, if you don't get your rematch with Peterson, what would be next, and you sound like someone who's not going to be as willing to fight in the States given what has happened to you. Who would you fight next and will you insist the fight be held in the U.K. where you know you'll get a fair shake?
Q.
Very quickly, Amir, in the event you don't get your rematch with Peterson, who would you like to fight and would you be willing to fight that person somewhere in the States whether it's in Nevada or California or somewhere other than Washington?
Amir Khan
You know, one thing I love fighting in the States, and my previous fights in the States have been fairly fair. I've had some performances, and this is just the one fight that I was treated, and even if I was beaten, then I'd put my hand up and I'd say yes, I was beaten.
But watching the video and everything and beating the fight, I knew I was not beaten and I was treated unfairly. I was complaining at the referee by being hit below the belt and also, you know, being not treated right and getting the ref was always just complaining of things I was doing, but not complaining, not warning Lamont Peterson I mean, you know, that just kind of hurt me because I thought, look at this, you know, I'm the world champion who's traveling to just a big entertainment to people's State and they're not giving me the fair chance, you know, and not many people would do what I'm doing by traveling from England.
I mean I could have all my career in England, but I choose to travel and play in America, just all my fans and for boxing, you know, to make boxing a bigger sport. But it's just upsetting when you see these things happen because I'm thinking, boy, it should never happen and especially what the world of boxing got to see the fight on HBO and also Sky TV.
But I'm sure they thought, wow, you know, is this really boxing, I mean I'm getting Twitter messages, and other messages everywhere I have been going and people are saying, "Wow, we didn't think this happened in boxing." I mean, we know it happens in other sports, but boxing is one sport we thought was fair and it didn't look good for boxing.
Q.
Hi, I'm very well thank you, thank you. There's a question for Richard first of all. You read out that list of the warnings issued by Cooper to Peterson, I mean it sounds like you have an annotated list of those warnings. Can you just tell us who it was who sat down, and watched the tape and made that list for you to present to the WB and IBF. Can you just tell us who it was who did that?
Asif Vali
Yes, the full team from the U.K. have sat down and reviewed the tapes. We, mostly studied it close over the last few days. Amir himself has been away in London for the last few days doing other stuff. When Amir comes back, he's on the way back now, we're going to sit down with him straight again and we're going to go through the list again to clarify and confirm exactly what's happened. But the full team sat down with it.
Q.
We had an understanding here that the IBF had already rejected the appeal, but from what you're saying, that doesn't seem to be the case.
Richard Schaefer
No that was not the official appeal. Basically we sent immediately a letter to the sanction organizations informing them that there will be an appeal and we asked them, we made them aware of it, and the IBF came back very quickly within a day and said that they initially just looked at the tapes and they do not feel that anything is warranted to file an appeal.
But, based on section 12 I believe, of the IBF rules and regulations, you can file an appeal within ten days of the bout and we had an official appeal, and so have filed this official appeal and that official appeal will basically trigger a very thorough review of the facts and the surrounding of this decision and we will have an opportunity to present that, obviously we have put it forward in writing, be we will have an opportunity to present it to the IBF on January 19th. And then they will make their decision whether they will either overturn the result or order an immediate rematch, or let the decision stand as it is. And it's the same process with the WBA.
Q.
You touched on this a bit earlier but I want to get a clarification. Are you saying you would not consider coming back to D.C. based on the event that transpired on the 10th? And how will this, if at all, impact your decision to fight other challengers in their hometown?
Amir Khan
I mean, you know, yeah, you know, first of all I fought other places like neutral venues. I think the best thing for me is to find neutral venues. I mean this can always be hard for me to fight, so I want to know even though you know I fought Lamont Peterson in his home state I beat him and I was against the referee, I was against the judging.
I think in boxing it's bad to have bad judging and bad referees, it just looks so bad for the sport and, you know, we don't want this because it's just making boxing look bad and it's happened with me now and I've got friends all over the world, people who understand boxing, people who don't understand boxing, and even those who don't understand boxing here I will not fight.
And it just puts down Washington, now I know why they didn't have big event for the last 20 years. You know people are afraid to go there, people are going to be afraid to go there again. Now after seeing what happened with me, they're going to be like why we should really stay away from that place and we don't want that, we didn't want that to happen. All we wanted was a fair fight. You know, be fair in boxing, that's what it's all about, I want fair fights and I just don't get the fair fight.
So, I think the world knows, even the press, you guys, and the media, you've all, I'm sure you've all watched the fight and you all know exactly who won the fight and how the fight was. Now all I'm asking is for a rematch, a fair chance back and a fight in neutral just for me to prove to the world of boxing, now look, I clearly won that fight. And that's all I want and, you know, again I mean it would be brilliant if you can return the judging on me.
If we put ourselves in neutral judges and a referee to watch the tape of the fight, I could guarantee you that they'll have me the winner and then points won't be deducted. You know, at the time I was complaining to the referee there was nothing happening with that. I mean the time when the referee told me, when he says 'Khan you should take a step back,' which are in the rules, and box on, but they lost their taken and Lamont's head was going in there - I know if that was me doing the head thing I would have been disqualified. That's how I feel.
So, you know, it's just one of those things, I just really think I was treated unfairly. That's the reason we are putting this complaint in because I know if I lost the fight then I would not complain and make myself look stupid. But because I know I won the fight and I'm so confident that IBF and WBA can do something about this, and they can change around, that's the reason we're doing this, because I think it's hurt in boxing when things are happening.
Richard Schaefer
Yeah, and I just want to add to that I think, you know, it is yes, IBF and WBA, but I really think the Washington Commission needs to do something about that as well, Gene, because it doesn't look right. And it doesn't look right that I was told through my sources that the Petersons met with the mayor of Washington this past week, and talked about doing a potential other fight in Washington. It just doesn't look good. It doesn't look good and I really don't want to dig deeper here because I really don't want to, but what I want is, and what I request, what I will fight for, that the truth come out and the record will be set straight. And the easiest way to set the record straight is let's just do it again.
Q.
How will this at all impact your decision to bring Golden Boy fights to D.C. again?
Richard Schaefer
Well, you know I have to tell you, we are promoting some of the best young talent in Washington, and I want to come back to Washington. I think saying that, "Hey you can't, you can't go to Washington because these people don't know what they're doing and there is like, you know, there is, you know, there's no way to go to Washington to get a fair decision." I think as I said in my opening remarks, that's just very unfair to the fight fans and the sports fans of Washington. And it is in the control of the Commission, of the Washington Commission to do something about that, just like the California Commission did.
You know I mentioned that we're going to come back here to California with Amir's next fight, but you know what, the Commission here in California, again the ref made the mistake, but you know what, it was corrected. And that is what this is all about. If something wrong happens, people should have an opportunity to do the right thing. And as I said, the WBA, the IBF, and the Washington Commission have an opportunity to do the right thing and I hope and - are not going to do the right thing, if they're not going to do the right thing, then I have to tell you, you're putting your fighters at risk to go to Washington, and I don't want to do that. That's not right.
Amir Khan
And I'm sad also, you know, I really think even if the referees or the judges do change and look back and change decision, I think they'll get a lot more respect than not doing anything about it because it just shows that they have to do something about this situation because the situation on the world knows. I mean you can't hide what's happened over the last weekend of the fight between me and Lamont Peterson. It cannot be hidden and we all saw the fight, everyone saw the fight and everyone had their own opinions.
So I think the Commission, and also the referee will have more, get more respect and also in Washington D.C. there will be more fights if that in my opinion is to change because people think, okay fine, they made a mistake and they've changed and they're going to learn from their mistakes and not do that again.
Richard Schaefer
Okay. You know, sorry, I wouldn't go as far as, or maybe I should go as far because I got a funny email today from Dan Rafael from ESPN and he said that some people, some fans have created a Facebook page called Joe Cooper Should be Banned for Five Years. I think the reason why I'm saying that, there is a true outrage out there about the refereeing. You know, nobody is attacking Lamont Peterson here. Nobody is saying that he did anything wrong, but there's a clear outrage against the officiating and something has to be done about it.
Q.
If the fight were to be overturned, what would be the decision? Would it be a no contest?
Richard Schaefer
Well, I will leave that decision up to the, up to the sanctioning organizations and, if they would rule this as a no contest or a draw or whatever it would be, but I think it probably, or if it would be, or if the fight would be awarded to Amir. I think there are different scenarios here and we have outlined the scenarios to the sanction organizations in our appeal and we'll leave it up to them. So what decision they're going to take, it's in their hands now. We stated our case and as I said, I hope they're going to do the right thing.
Q.
Do you feel that the outcome of the fight was a result of Lamont Peterson being from Washington D.C., or is it just a Washington D.C. thing in general?
Richard Schaefer
Well, I mean I think it's probably the two of them are probably connected to each other. But I think what it is, it was an absolutely poor officiating job and either the referee just wasn't up to speed and up to par and he made close calls. And at this point he doesn't know the rules and regulations, or it could be something else.
But as I said, I don't want to go there, I want to give the referee an opportunity and I believe that if the referee is going to in fact review the tape himself, he's going to see that these point deductions were not warranted and that if he's taking points away that he should have been consistent and done the same for Peterson.
And I do hope, just like it was here in California, the ref will review the tape and come to the right conclusion and will give his recommendation to the District of Columbia Commission. That's what I hope for and I really don't want to go and speculate what else could have been or what other forces were behind it, or whatever, because that doesn't bring us anywhere.
Q.
Congratulations on a great performance and thank you for putting on one hell of a fight. My question is, in case the immediate rematch does not happen, and let's say it takes place further down the road, is there a possibility that that rematch could take place at 147 and if so is that something you're okay with?
Amir Khan
Well you know in the best case, we would like a rematch as soon as possible because I want my title back and I want to prove to the boxing fans out there that where the real champion is. And if he wants to fight one fight and then me, I will fight this division and we'll go fight again in the 140 division and then the 147 division. You know one thing about me, I've never said no to an opponent, I've always not turned anyone away.
I fight whoever they put in front of me and it just shows what type of guy I am, I will fight people in their own backyard because I'm not afraid of fighting them. All I want is a fair chance and you know if I had a fair chance on the last fight, I definitely would have won that fight, and it's just one of the things, I mean I wasn't treated right and even the fans in D.C. said that I clearly won the fight. I don't know what the referee was watching, he was on one side and he was not being on my side, in my opinion.
Q.
Did it almost strike you that you actually might lose from your point of view and from the point of view most? Did you think about that in the ring and sort it out properly?
Amir Khan
No, you just want to have a fight. I mean we trained so hard, both fighters. I'm not taking anything away from Lamont. We trained very very hard. We just hope for that one night we put everything into this fight, and we just want to be treated fairly.
I know Lamont Peterson trained very hard for the fight. He boxed really well, he had a good game-plan and everything, but the referee in a way, stole that fight from me. And if I had lost fair and square I would have put my hand up and said fine, he beat me, he was the better fighter of the night, but I don't think he did that. It's all about now just let's see hopefully they can watch the fight again, the Commission, and they do come back with the right vision.
Q.
Can you just tell me about this master scorecard thing, because that seems like quite an important part of your case that you presented there and certainly something that you're very interested about.
Richard Schaefer
Yes, absolutely. We obviously do feel that there's clearly some questions surrounding the scorecards really can't explain why. As I said, Michael Walsh, the WBA Supervisor, Certified Public Account and CPA by profession, very adapt working with numbers, why, and has done that many times before in that same position, why his scorecard was different than the one from the Commission, and the IBF scorecard going missing.
I mean it obviously does raise I think more than a few eyebrows. You just look at everything from the scoring to the point deductions from Amir, to the inconsistency from the ref by not deducting any points from Peterson, even though he has warned him 14 times or so, and you look at all of this, I think that is why we are on this call. And I am not one who takes these lightly, because I believe going to cry foul is not really in the best interest of the sport either.
But what is in the best interest, not just of the sport and of anything is when you have been done wrong you have to stand up. You cannot just do nothing about it. This is what this is about. And let me just that Lamont Peterson is a great fighter. He has tremendous heart, he has tremendous courage, everything that he's overcome to earn that spot, that job. My hat goes off to Lamont Peterson. He's a great, great fighter.
And you saw that when he fought Victor Ortiz. When Victor knocked him down and he came up. He has the heart and the courage to never give up. And I applaud him for that. And I really applaud him as well to have agreed to do the rematch, and I do believe that Lamont Peterson at the end of the day it's not going to be Barry Hunter or his team, or whatever. It is going to be Lamont Peterson who is going to have to go to his team and tell them, you know what? What is right is right. The right thing is that we're going to do it again. That is what this call is about.
Richard Schaefer
Thank you to all the media members and I'm going to be forum and we're going to close the call I'm going to give it to Amir to say the final words, but to all my friends from the British media, to all my friends from the U.S. media, I wish you all a very happy holiday season. Enjoy the time off, we're going to have an exciting start to 2012. Enjoy the time with your family and I really appreciate your continued support of the sport of boxing. Thank you, thank you very much. Amir?
Amir Khan
Yes, thanks. Just thank you very much for all of your support guys and hopefully we can get this resolved. And thanks for calling on the conference to the U.S. media and also the U.K. media and have a good Merry Christmas and happy New Years guys and hopefully we'll see you in 2012.
Video: Floyd Mayweather Jr. Sentencing
Floyd Mayweather Jr. Sentenced To 3 Months In Jail, Reports To Jail On Jan. 6th
Photo: Sam Morris/Las Vegas Sun
Las Vegas Justice of the Peace Melissa Saragosa, has sentenced WBC welterweight champion Floyd Mayweather Jr. to six months in jail but will only serve 3 months of his sentence. According, to Saragosa the final 90 days of the sentence will be suspended and the first 90 days, Mayweather Jr. will serve at the Clark County Detention Center in Las Vegas. Attorney Karen Winckler she wanted to talk with Mayweather Jr. before deciding to appeal or not.
Yesterday (Tuesday) Mayweather Jr. pleaded guilty to reduced battery domestic violence and harassment charges before the judge. The plea deal avoids trial on felony allegations that he hit his ex-girlfriend and threatened two of their children during an argument at her home in September 2010.
Mayweather Jr. is scheduled to surrender himself on the morning of January 6th. Also, Mayweather Jr. will attend domestic violence counsling, complete 100 hours of community service and pay a $2, 500 fine. If Mayweather serves his full sentence, his release will be in April. So, his May 5th return to the ring date will now most likely be pushed back. There was hope of a Manny Pacquiao vs. Mayweather fight on May 5th, fight fans will have to continue and wait for this super mega fight to happen.
Boxing's Rising Stars Featured On Year-End Edition Of "Solo Boxeo Tecate Classics"
LOS ANGELES, December 20 - They announced their arrival to the boxing world in 2011, but before each of these fighters embarks on the next steps in their respective careers in 2012, four of boxing's top prospects - Frankie Gomez, Luis Ramos Jr., Eloy Perez and Omar Figueroa Jr. - will headline the year-end edition of TeleFutura's "Sólo Boxeo Tecate Classics" on Friday, December 23.
The special broadcast will revisit August 26 in Chicago, Ill. when Frankie Gomez won an eight-round majority decision over Adrian Granados, Luis Ramos Jr.'s March 18 majority decision win over Jose Hernandez in Costa Mesa, Calif., Eloy Perez's September 2 second round knockout win over Daniel Jimenez in defense of his NABO Junior Lightweight title in Salinas, Calif. and Omar Figueroa Jr.'s August 26 second round technical knockout win over Marcos Herrera in Chicago, Ill.
The special two-hour presentation of "Sólo Boxeo Tecate," which is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate and AT&T, will air on TeleFutura at 12:30am ET/PT (11:30pm CT).
Just 19 years old, East Los Angeles' Frankie Gomez (12-0, 9 KO's) is starting to fulfill his enormous potential with some impressive wins. On August 26, he was pushed to the limit by then 8-1-1 fellow prospect Adrian Granados before pulling out a hard-fought eight round majority decision win in Chicago, Ill.
Looking forward to his ShoBox debut against Raymundo Beltran on January 6, undefeated lightweight prospect Luis Ramos Jr. (20-0, 9 KO's) showed off his skill and grit on March 18 when he pounded out an eight-round majority decision victory over Jose Hernandez in Costa Mesa, Calif.
Highly-ranked super featherweight contender Eloy "Prince" Perez (23-0-2, 7 KO's) made a big statement with a win at the Sports Complex in Salinas, Calif. on September 2 when he knocked out highly-regarded Daniel Jimenez in the second round to defend his NABO 130-pound title.
Weslaco, Texas' Omar Figueroa Jr. (13-0-1, 10 KO's) has a well-deserved reputation as a knockout artist, and on the same night that Gomez defeated Granados, "Panterita" showed off his guns with a second round knockout of Marcos Herrera.
Tecate, cerveza con carácter, is the largest beer brand to sponsor boxing matches in the U.S. Part of its commitment to make boxing accessible to consumers is the title sponsorship of "Sólo Boxeo Tecate," which creates an opportunity for local fans to witness some of the most exhilarating fights by today's up-and-coming prospects. Additionally, Tecate has been a primary supporter of Golden Boy Promotions' marquee events since 2007, and has launched a variety of initiatives to ensure consumers are part of the boxing experience, including boxer autograph signing sessions, commemorative cans, PPV mail-in rebate offers, and most recently the launch of a mobile museum "Tecate Museo de Boxeo," which showcases decades of the most memorable moments in the sport.
Visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy Boxing Facebook Page.
Thomas "Cornflake" Lamanna Scores KO In Arkansas To Stay Perfect At 6-0
MILLVILLE, NJ (December 20, 2011)—This past Friday night in Batesville, Arkansas, Jr. Middleweight prospect Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna scored his sixth consecutive victory with a second round stoppage over Ivory Joyner to keep his perfect mark intact.
LaManna hit Joyner with a hard one-two combination that sent the Arkansas native down and the fight was waved off at 1:16 of round two.
LaManna of Millville, NJ lifted his record to 6-0 with four knockouts and is already back working for his next fight.
“It was good to fight outside the area and get the win. It’s always good to fight on the road and gain experience”, said the twenty year-old LaManna
“We have three fights lined up for Thomas to begin the year”, said LaManna’s Father/Manager Vinny LaManna.
“Thomas will be back on January 19th in Staten Island then we have February and March dates that are tentative. To have him get nine fights in his first thirteen months as a pro is about where both he and I want him to be”
Nathan Cleverly UK's Only World Champion At The Moment, Is Still Looking For A Feb. 25th Opponent
WBO light heavyweight champion Nathan Cleverly (23-0, 11 KOs), the UK’s only world champion after the defeats of Amir Khan and Carl Froch in recent weeks, will defend his belt against an opponent to be named on February 25 at Moterpoint Arena in Cardiff, Wales. No opponent has been named, but #9 rated Andrzej Fonfara has been ruled out by the Cleverly camp according to walesonline.co.uk.
One of boxing’s hardest punchers Edison “Pantera” Miranda (35-6, 30 KOs), fresh off a sensational TKO win over WBO #7 light heavyweight Kariz Kariuki on Saturday night in Atlantic City, targeted Cleverly on Wednesday. “Sure, I would love to fight him in his backyard. I have never turned down a challenge. I have a huge fan base in England and all over Europe. I’m back in the gym and it would be no problem for me to get ready for a title fight in February. It would give me great pleasure to fight in front of all those great fans and give them a night they will never forget. Cleverly will feel stupid when I’m done with him.”
Two International Title Fights Will Take Place In Serbia On Christmas Eve
The World Boxing Federation is sanctioning two international title fights on a December 24 Christmas Eve show in Belgrade, Serbia. On a card promoted by Zoran Andjic, German International Champion Uensal Arik (7-1, 7 KOs) will face his biggest test so far when he takes on Turkish-born veteran Turgay Uzun (37-18-2, 24 KOs) for the vacant WBF International Super Middleweight title.
In the second WBF title fight on the card, and the main event, local hero Nenad Stankovic (13-12-1, 9 KOs) squares off with Germanys Jonathan Pasi (22-23-2, 8 KOs) for the vacant International Cruiserweight crown.
This will be a clash of unusual title-challengers, as both started out as clear-cut journeymen before turning their careers around. Although winning a Yugoslavian title in the process, Stankovic went 4-12-1 in his first seventeen fights before taking a six-year break. Since his return in 2007 he has won nine straight, eight of them inside the distance.
Jonathan Pasi was 3-17-2 after his first twenty-two professional starts, but has since gone 19-6 with his losses coming against very good opposition. His last two bouts were at Heavyweight where he lost to notables Alexander Kahl and Timo Hoffmann, but back in a more suitable weight class, Cruiserweight, he expects to continue his good form against Stankovic.
Brahmer Returns Jan. 28th, Returns For The First Time In 18 months
On January 28th, former WBO light heavyweight champion Jürgen Brähmer (36-2, 29 KOs) returns for the first time in 18 months topping a loaded fight card at the 5-star luxury Grand Elysee Hotel in Hamburg, Germany. Brähmer was stripped of his world title after pulling out of three straight title defenses on short notice.
In the co-feature is former WBA cruiserweight champion Firat Arslan (31-5-1, 20 KOs). World-rate heavyweight Denis Boytsov (29-0, 24 Kos), unbeaten cruiserweight and Olympic gold medalist Rakhim Chakhkiev (11-0, 9 KOs), and former WBA heavyweight champion Ruslan Chagaev (27-2-1, 17 KOs) will also be featured.
This will be the second Universum Fight Night since the famed promotional company was reorganized. Opponents will be named.
Jackie "Aztec Princess" Nava Announces Her Return & Opens "Jackie Nava Gym" In Tijuana
Photos: Rafael Soto
Iconic female fighter Jackie “Aztec Princess” Nava (25-4-3, 11KOs) killed two birds with one stone when she announced her next bout and inaugurated the “Jackie Nava Gym” in Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, at a press conference held Tuesday morning. Flanked by Zanfer Promotions’ Guillermo Brito as the master of ceremonies while her life long trainer Miguel Reyes and former welterweight champion Antonio Margarito took the roles of the gym’s godfathers, Nava shared her plans to challenge current WBA super bantamweight champion Chanttall Martinez (15-4, 6KOs) of Panama on Saturday, January 14th, at the Tijuana Municipal Auditorium. The championship bout will be televised live in Mexico by the Azteca Channel and will mark the start of the 2012 boxing season for the channel as well as Fernando Beltran’s Zanfer Promotions.
“I am more nervous than when I fight,” the affable Nava said in her opening remarks as her voice cracked with obvious emotion. “I am confident that this gym will serve the kids as well as the community of Tijuana. I want to thank the state run organization Juventud BC as well as my promoter Zanfer who donated the ring. We look to form new talents for the city of Tijuana but most importantly, urge the kids to stay in school.”
The gym was founded with the help with a state run agency that provided most of the funds for the new space as well as a computer lab that will help the children of the neighborhood with their school work. All kids ranging from the age of 8-16 will be able to use the facilities for free as long as they stay in school with passing grades.
Nava also commented on her pending title bout with Martinez who is considered the number one fighter in the division and who in back in early 2010 suffered a loss to Nava via a unanimous decision, “We have been training for a month. We know that she is strong and lanky but we know that we can beat her like we have done before. This time I am going to go for the knock out. Together with my team of Miguel Reyes, my strength and conditioning coach Raul Robles and Mario Mendoza, we have been working hard and we are going to leave everything in the ring.”
Juan Carlos Pelayo, the Tijuana Boxing Commission’s executive director, also partook of the festivities and took the time to praise Nava for helping to bring the name of Tijuana to a world stage, “Tijuana is made up of people like Jackie Nava, hard working with dreams that don’t die until reached. She is a proud Tijuanense and she reminds every one of that wherever she goes and that makes the city and its people proud.”
Acting as one of the newly opened gym’s godfathers as it is customary in Mexico, former three time welterweight champion Antonio Margarito also had the opportunity to speak.
“She beat me to it,” Margarito said with a laugh. “Sometimes she beats me in our boxing careers too but she beat me at opening a gym and I am happy for her and the kids that are going to make use of it.”
Nava, who earned a degree in architecture while also becoming the first female champion to be crowned by the WBC, designed the interior space of the gym.
Brito mentioned that on the under card of the Nava-Martinez WBA super bantamweight bout, super bantamweight Alex Lopez (22-2, 7KOs), bantamweight Felipe Orucuta (22-1, 18KOs) and hard hitting welterweight Daniel “Galeno” Sandoval (22-2, 22KOs) will also be featured on the card.
The "War at Woodland Hills" Boxing Series Returns Jan. 20th At Warner Center Marriott
Following three successful shows in 2011, the “War at Woodland Hills” boxing series returns to the Warner Center Marriott on January 20. The card is scheduled to feature 11 professional bouts including a light heavyweight title bout between Hollywood’s Anatoliy Dudchenko (13-2) and East Los Angeles’ Alex Armenta (8-2). Dudchenko is riding a 10 fight win streak and returning to the same division where he fought as a member of the Ukrainian Olympic team. Armenta returned to the ring after a year layoff and captured a split decision victory over Benjamin Diaz (11-4) in his last fight.
The co-main event will feature the homecoming of Pitbull Boxing’s Cleotis “Mookie” Pendarvis (13-3-2). Pendarvis, a Los Angeles native, was a fixture on the local Southern California boxing scene for years. Pendarvis went 3-0 in 2011 while fighting in Texas, picking up two WBF titles in the process. War At Woodland Hills VI will mark the slick southpaw’s first fight in his hometown since 2009.
Several undefeated prospects will appear on the undercard including Boxing360’s Donyil Livingston (7-0-1) and Joel Diaz (6-0), Russian import Alexander Filichkin (9-0), Oxnard duo Erik Ruiz (3-0) and Oscar Diaz (2-0), and coming off his impressive pro debut on Fox Sports, Zachary “Kid Yamaka” Wohlman (1-0). Two special attraction female bouts will take place as undefeated Featherweights Celine Roman (1-0) and Claudio Romero (1-0) square off to see which boxer will taste her first loss and flyweights Becky Garcia (5-1) and Adrienne Alegria (1-0) take to the ring. Rounding out the undercard will be Oxnard’s own Javier “Pelos” Garcia, who went a perfect 4-0 in 2011.
Tickets can be purchased online by going to www.bashboxing.com or by calling (626) 388-8888. THE WAR AT WOODLAND HILLS IV takes place on Friday, January 20, 2012 in the Grand Ballroom of the Warner Center Marriott in Woodland Hills. Doors Open at 7:00 pm, First Bout at 7:30 pm sharp.
The card is presented by Art Of Boxing Promotions in association with Bash Boxing, Pitbull Boxing, and Boxing360. All bouts are subject to change.
GBP Khan-Peterson Complaint Has Been Accepted By The IBF/USBA
On the evening of December 19, 2011, the IBF/USBA received a request for a formal appeal procedure from Golden Boy Promotions for the bout between Amir Khan and Lamont Peterson. The grounds for such an appeal include miscalculation of the scoring, inappropriate conduct by officials which may affect the outcome of the bout and any alleged violation of the rules of the IBF/USBA that may have a detrimental effect on the rights of the complainant.
The complaint by Golden Boy Promotions has been accepted by the IBF/USBA and a panel of three boxing officials will be assembled to hear the appeal and review the bout. After completion, the panel will present its findings to the President, who after consulting with the Championships Committee, shall take that action deemed appropriate based upon the panel’s findings.
ABC Issues Significant Concerns About Open Scoring
The Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC) has sent the letter below to its membership of state and tribal combative sports commissions from the United States and Canada.
Dear Members:
At a recent sanctioning organization’s annual meeting, it was stated that open scoring would be used during championship boxing matches held, regardless of the location of the contest.
The purpose of this writing is to remind our ABC member commissions, that a committee headed by Jim Erickson (Mille Lacs) studied this issue for an entire year while gathering information from promoters, contestants, sanctioning organization and other interested parties. The committee members included Joe Mason (CO), Pat Pannella (MD) and Bernie Profato (OH). After the committee’s presentation of the information gathered, open scoring was overwhelmingly rejected by the ABC membership.It should be noted that this vote marked the second time that the ABC debated and then rejected the concept of open scoring.
It had been suggested at the aforementioned sanctioning body meeting that the scores of each of the three judges were to be announced after the 4th and 8th rounds of the bout. Further, it was stated that if a commission refused to allow open scoring, the sanctioning body’s assigned supervisor would be instructed to signal each corner and indicate the scores of the judges.
The ABC has multiple and significant concerns with regard to open scoring.
Below please find a cursory list of examples;
1) Boxer A receives an accidental head-butt and (4) rounds have been completed. Boxer A who received the cut knows he is ahead on the cards so why would his corner persons try to fix the cut? The corner person could just let the cut get worse causing the referee or doctor to stop the bout and the injured boxer will win.
2) Boxer A is well ahead in the bout it could turn into a track meet with boxer A becoming very defensive. Any trainer who knows his boxer is well ahead on points would always instruct his boxer to use the jab and MOVE – do not engage – your opponent needs a KO or at least a knock-down (to get a 10-8 round) to win. O n the other side, would boxer B (knowing he can’t win without a knock-down) chase him around the ring, throwing wild punches in a desperate attempt to score a knock-out?
3) Boxer B is well behind so it’s possible he could just quit because he would know he was well behind and there was little or no incentive for him to continue.
4) Would the referee knowing one boxer is well behind on points be more prone to stop a bout?
5) Fans that see a score could become very vocal or even worse hostile and judges could be intimated to score a round in a certain manner. This would be particularly true when the home town boxer is behind and the crowd becomes increasingly loud and hostile.
6) Fight strategy could be drastically altered after the scores are given at the conclusion of the 8th round.
In conclusion, the ABC strongly encourages its member commissions hosting championship contests to advise sanctioning organizations that open scoring will not be used.
Notice should be provided prior to the weigh-in so there are no miscommunications. Any representative of the sanctioning group who attempts to provide the scores of the judges during the contest should be immediately removed from the ringside area.
The ABC will invite each sanctioning organization to appear at our annual meeting for further discussion of open scoring. The ABC meets next year July 23 – 25, 2012, at the Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort in Clearwater, Florida.
ESPN2 2012 Boxing Schedule
ESPN’s Friday Night Fights will total 30 dates in 2012. The schedule to date is listed below:
Fri, Jan 6: Dyah Davis vs. Alfonso Lopez
Mallory Square, Key West, Fla
Fri, Jan 13: Teon Kennedy vs. Chris Martin
Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas
Fri, Jan 27: Ruslan Provodnikov vs. Julio “The Kidd” Diaz
Northern Quest Casino, Airway Heights, Wash.
Fri, Feb 3: Edison Miranda vs. Yordanis Despaigne
(TBD), Las Vegas
Fri, Feb 10: Demetrius Andrade vs. Derek Ennis
Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville, Conn.
Fri, Feb 17: John Molina vs. Alejandro Sanabria
UTA, College Park Center, Arlington Texas
Fri, Feb 24: Juan Carlos Burgos vs. Cristobal Cruz
USC, Galen Center, Los Angeles
Ward And Hunter: Their Year Of Success Should Land Them Fighter & Trainer Of The Year Awards
LOS ANGELES, CA (Dec. 20, 2011) - It has been a tremendously successful 2011 for Andre Ward (25-0, 13 KOs), who after a twenty-six month journey is now the Super Six World Boxing Classic champion; the WBA champion; the WBC champion; the Ring magazine champion and the No. 1 Super Middleweight in the world.
Right there with him, is Ward's crafty veteran trainer and godfather of 18 years, Virgil Hunter, who like Ward is soft spoken, but filled with wisdom. Hunter recognized the talent and drive in Andre from the moment he walked into his gym. Virgil began training the 9-year old Ward and guided him to a gold medal in the 2004 Olympics.
Andre always believed that Virgil was the man who was going to elevate his game to the highest of levels and we've all been witnesses to just that. This past Saturday, December 17, as Ward was presented with three championship belts and the Super Six Cup, those beliefs were confirmed more-so.Ward decimated the gritty British fighter with a unanimous decision at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.
Already named Sports Illustrated's Fighter of the Year, Oakland, California's Ward had one word for his impressive evening and undefeated run through the two-plus year tournament: "Supernatural."
"These are all great fighters. That's why you don't hear me talking badly about them before the fight. I know what I'm getting into. I just want to be a little bit better on the night of the fight."
Earlier this year in May, Ward put on another destructive performance against former middleweight titleist and one of the hard-hitting favorites to win the tournament in Arthur Abraham. Ward scored a near perfect shutout against the former champion in a lopsided victory that would send him to the final.
Hunter's work alongside Ward has earned him to be named "Trainer of the Year" with Andre's one-sided run and the culmination of his last two bouts in a tournament filled with high-profile, top-level competition, all directed by his trainer. The man currently stands above everyone else since Andre's upset of Mikkel Kessler and has had Andre prepared to finish his opponents with sheer dominance on his way to obtaining the WBA, WBC, Ring championship belts, along with the Super Six World Boxing Classic title.
These are tremendous accomplishments by both fighter and trainer, especially when you throw in the fact that Hunter started with Ward when he was a nine year-old and has built him into an elite world-class fighter from scratch, taking him from US Olympic Gold to a decorated world champion as a professional.
Roger Mayweather deserves credit for Floyd Mayweather, but Floyd fought only once in 2011. Freddie Roach, the winner the past two years, has recently struggled with Manny Paquiao against Juan Manuel Marquez in his last bout and most recently Amir Khan.
There are other trainers that could deserve this recognition also, but for utter dominance of their fighters, Virgil Hunter stands alone in 2011.
Hunter, also trains Brandon Gonzales, Karim Mayfield, Michael Dallas, Marlow Moore and Heather Hartman.Ortiz vs. Berto II Set For Feb. 11th At The MGM Grand Arena In Las Vegas, Billed As "Repeat Or Revenge"
LOS ANGELES (December 19, 2011) - In April 2011, Victor Ortiz and Andre Berto gave boxing fans one of the best fights of the year, with both men hitting the canvas twice before Ortiz rallied to victory and captured Berto's WBC Welterweight World Championship.
On Saturday, February 11, these rugged and determined fighters will meet once again, this time at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nev., in a highly anticipated 12-round welterweight rematch live on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).
"Ortiz vs. Berto II: Repeat or Revenge" is presented by Golden Boy Promotions, DiBella Entertainment and SHOWTIME. Coming off of its groundbreaking promotion during the blockbuster SHOWTIME PPV® event featuring Manny Pacquiao vs. Shane Mosley in May 2011, SHOWTIME will again receive promotional support from the network's parent company, CBS Corporation, whose assets include the CBS Television Network and local radio and television stations, among others. The Ortiz-Berto rematch marks the first time that SHOWTIME and CBS will join forces in support of a boxing event televised live on the premium network.
Both fighters have agreed to be subject to Olympic style drug testing which will be administered by the Volunteer Anti-Doping Association (VADA) and will include random blood and urine tests.
"For me, the first Berto-Ortiz fight was the 2011 Fight of the Year and one of the most memorable fights of the last several years," said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Mangaer, SHOWTIME Sports. "Immediately after, like most every other boxing fan, I couldn't help but hope for a rematch. Now that I am in the position to bring this fight to the loyal SHOWTIME subscribers, and to do so with the support of our world-class colleagues at CBS, I couldn't be more proud to make this special announcement."
"I'm prepared to go to war again with Berto," said Ortiz.
Berto said, "I am looking forward to this fight. It's a fight that I want and it's a fight the people demanded. These are the types of fights that make boxing so great. I am so hyped and excited to get ready to make another classic, but bottom line...Ortiz has to GO!"
Oscar de la Hoya, president of Golden Boy Promotions, said, "After the April fight between Ortiz and Berto, the first words out of everyone's mouths were, 'When are they going to do it again?' Well, I'm proud to say that February 11th is the date for the most anticipated rematch we've seen in a long time. When you put these two fighters together in the ring, there will always be fireworks. I can't wait to see them do battle a second time."
Lou DiBella, president of DiBella Entertainment, said, "Berto-Ortiz I was a 'Fight of the Year' candidate and boxing fans can expect more of the same in this meaningful rematch. This fight is the perfect way to open up what is expected to be a great year of boxing in 2012."
Tickets, priced at $300, $150, $100 and $50, are now on sale and are available at all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations (select Smith's Food and Drug Centers and Ritmo Latino). Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also are available for purchase at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.
Everyone anticipated an action-packed fight the first time that Victor Ortiz and Andre Berto stepped into the ring back on April 16 with the WBC Welterweight World Championship on the line. What ensued was nothing less than spectacular as the pair stormed out of the gate, setting a fast pace that would continue for the entire 12-round contest. Midway through the first round, Ortiz staggered Berto with a sneaky right hand, then backed him into a corner and followed up with a barrage of punches which forced the defending champion to take a knee in order to recover. Berto wasted little time returning the favor, sending Ortiz to the canvas with a counter right hand at the end of the second round. The exciting battle continued round after round, and in the sixth frame, Berto landed a right hand that dropped Ortiz. As soon as the action resumed, Berto was all over Ortiz, looking to close the show. With Ortiz trapped against the ropes and Berto throwing caution to the wind, Ortiz threw a left hook that caught Berto flush on the chin, dropping him for the second time in the fight just seconds before the bell. The back-and-forth action continued for the second half of the "Fight of the Year" candidate. In the end, Ortiz had captured the title with a hard-fought unanimous decision victory, winning by scores of 115-110, 114-111 and 114-112.
The star of Victor Ortiz (29-3-2, 22 KOs) has been on the rise for the last few years, but in 2011, the native of Garden City, Kansas finally put everything together for the entire world to see. The owner of wins over Mike Arnaoutis, Nate Campbell and Antonio Diaz, Ortiz stepped it up in April 2011 with a 12-round decision win over Berto that captivated the boxing world and earned him the WBC Welterweight Championship. Five months later, Ortiz lost a controversial bout to pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather, but with his rematch against Berto looming, the 24-year old now has the perfect opportunity to get back to the top of the division.
A member of the 2004 Haitian Olympic team, Andre Berto (28-1, 22 KOs), like Ortiz, has been leading the charge of boxing's next generation, thrilling fans with exciting fights and blistering knockouts. Crowned a world champion in 2008, the 28-year-old Berto successfully defended his WBC crown five times against the likes of Luis Collazo, Steve Forbes and Juan Urango before losing it to Ortiz in April. In September, Berto put gold around his waist once again by stopping Jan Zaveck in five rounds for the IBF title. He would soon vacate the title in order to take the fight he has been clamoring for since April and now he's looking forward to evening the score with Ortiz on February 11.
For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.dbe1.com, www.mgmgrand.com, http://Sports.SHO.com, follow us on Twitter at @goldenboyboxing, @VICIOUSOrtiz, @AndreBerto, @OscardelaHoya, @loudibella, @SHOsports, @mgmgrand; or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/lou.dibella or www.facebook.com/ShoBoxing.
Video: Cornelius White vs. Yordanis Despaigne: Full Fight & Interview
Video: Edison Miranda vs. Kariz Kariuki: Full Fight
Klitschko vs. Chisora Confirmed For BoxNation On Feb. 18th
Promoter Frank Warren confirmed today that Dereck Chisora's title challenge against World Boxing Council (WBC) World Heavyweight Champion Vitali Klitschko will be televised live and exclusive on BoxNation (Sky Ch. 456, Virgin Ch. 546).
Londoner Chisora faces the three-time world champion at the Olympiahalle Munich, Germany, on February 18th - the first British fighter to challenge for a world title in 2012.
BoxNation viewers' saw Chisora's European title challenge last month against Robert Helenius in Norway when he was robbed by the judges' of a stunning victory.
If Chisora gets himself into the same physical and mental condition as he did against Helenius, he's got a chance of pulling off an incredible upset over the long-standing world champion who's ruled the division with his brother Wladimir, the WBA Super/WBO/IBF World Champion.
Warren said, "I'm delighted that BoxNation have secured the rights to this fight for viewers to watch live in the UK,"
"BoxNation have televised some of the best domestic and international fights live this year and they are starting with a bang in 2012 with a big world heavyweight title involving a British fighter,"
"It's a really tough fight for Chisora, but one that he can win if he gets himself in the same shape as he did against Helenius."
To subscribe to BoxNation go to www.boxnation.tv
Markussen And Nielsen Bring In Big Ratings
Rudy Markussen and Patrick Nielsen set a new TV2 Fight Night viewing record last Saturday when they clinched spectacular victories in front of a boisterous crowd in Herning.
The viewing figures peaked at 772,000 during Patrick Nielsen´s win over Michael Schubov, notching a peak commercial market share of 31 percent.
On average, 643,000 viewers watched the Vild med dans star as he clinched the International Boxing Federation (IBF) Youth Middleweight Title, translating into an average market share of 26 percent.
Markussen´s fourth-round TKO victory over Steven Bendall drew an average market share of 30 percent (543,000 viewers). “These are tremendous viewing figures that once again show how much interest there is in Danish boxing,” promoter Nisse Sauerland said.
Added Frederik Lauesen, Head of Sport at TV2: “We are very pleased with the viewing figures. It was a great night of boxing
Stieglitz-Weber Presser Quotes
Germany’s first major boxing highlight of 2012 takes place on January 14 at the Baden Arena in Offenburg when former middleweight champion Arthur Abraham (32-3, 26 KOs) takes on Pablo Oscar Natalio Farias (19-1, 11 KOs) and WBO super middleweight world champion Robert Stieglitz (40-2, 23 KOs) defends against WBO #14 Henry Weber (15-0-1, 3 KOs). At a press conference on Monday in Magdeburg, Stieglitz and Weber, who will be training through the holidays, spoke to the press:
Robert Stieglitz: “One should not underestimate Henry Weber. Therefore, I am approaching the matter with the necessary concentration. I’ve been a professional long enough to know I can celebrate after the 14th of January.”
Trainer Dirk Dzemski: “Our goal is clear. We want to clearly defeat Weber, then in April go against Mikkel Kessler.”
Henry Weber:“I know Robert from previous sparring, so I know what to expect….I have become faster, more mobile and explosive since I’ve trained with Otto Ramin. Somehow he manages to get more out of me. In the world championship fight against Stieglitz, I’m still the underdog. But that doesn’t bother me because fights aren’t won by words, but in the ring.
Trainer Otto Ramin: “This will be an exciting fight. We’re not focusing on Robert Stieglitz, but on the strengths of Henry. While anything is possible in boxing, I’m assuming that the fight will go the rounds. We’ll see who will be the winner in the end.”
Grady Brewer Defends His Title This Thursday In OKC
Former “Contender” winner Grady Brewer (28-13, 16 KOs), the reigning NABF super middleweight beltholder, is hard at work preparing for his upcoming title fight this Thursday night at the Cox Center in Oklahoma City. Brewer, age 40 (turning 41 on Thursday), from Lawton, Oklahoma, is defending his title against the younger knockout artist Michael Medina (25-3, 19 KOs), from Monterry, Mexico. Brewer won the NABF light middleweight title on June 17, 2011 by TKO in the fourth round over another much younger fighter, undefeated Fernando Guerrero (21-0 at the time). This win by Brewer was a huge upset and knocked the world-wide boxing community for a loop. As far is Brewer is concerned, it was no upset as he is used to winning and knocking off young guys.
Also on the card is popular Oklahoma lightweight titlist Noah Zuhdi (15-2,14 KO’s), welterweight Kyle Sherman (10-2, 6 KO’s), and heavyweight Ron “The Iceman” Aubrey (11-2, 11 KO’s). Opponents will be named. The event is presented by catBOX Entertainment.
Banner Year For Boxing 360, Amanda Serrano 1st World Champion
NEW YORK (December 19, 2011) - In only its third year of operations, Boxing 360 experienced a banner 2011, highlighted by Amanda "The Real Deal" Serrano capturing the New York City-based promotional company's first world title.
Boxing 360's Fighter of the Year clearly was 23-year-old Serrano (12-0-1, 8 KOs), a native of Puerto Rico who lives in Brooklyn, was 6-0 this past year with only one fight going the distance. Amanda twice defeated world title challenger Ela "Bam Bam" Nunez (DEC6) and TKO4) to complete their trilogy, in addition to knocking out Jennifer Scott in the opening round to capture the North American Boxing Federation ("NABF") featherweight title. In September, Serrano put Kimberly Connor (9-1-2) to sleep in the second round for the International Boxing Federation ("IBF") Super Featherweight Championship.
"I'm very happy with the progress and accomplishments our promotional company and its stable of fighters made this year," Boxing 360 founder and CEO Mario Yagobi said. "Amanda is our first world champion but we expect to have many more crowned in the years to come. We have a very good mix of multi-talented contenders and prospects. All of us at Boxing 360 are looking forward to a great 2012."
Veteran heavyweight Maurice "Sugar Moe" Harris (25-15-2, 11 KOs) split a pair of matches in 2001, however, his last action in a United States Boxing Association ("USBA") title defense resulted in an impressive victory by 12th round technical knockout of 25-4 Derec Rossy. Harris is rated No. 5 by the IBF and remains a world title contender.
WBC #5 super bantamweight Leon "Hurry Up" Moore (28-2, 22 KOs) moved from Guyana to New York City but, due to his record and experience, fought only once this year, winning a six-round decision versus Felipe Almanza. The reigning WBC CABOFE (Caribbean) and NABA champion, Moore is in position for a world title shot in 2012.
Buffalo light welterweight Nick "Hands of Gold" Casal (22-4-1, 17 KOs) resurrected his career, winning his two 2011 fights by knockouts, including a third-round TKO win of previously undefeated Michael Anderson (11-0-1).
One of the hottest prospects in the country is unbeaten junior featherweight Joel Diaz, Jr. (6-0, 5-0), who won all four of his fights this year by first-round knockout. The exciting 19 year old had three other fights cancelled this year and he is expected to have a breakout 2012.
Former world super middleweight champion Alejandro "Naco" Berrio (32-5, 29 KOs) isn't high on any top fighter's list of opponents, which is the primary reason for him fighting only once this year, a third-round TKO win against three-time world title challenger Antwun Echols.
Another Guyana fighter living in New York City, Lennox "2 Sharpe" Allen (15-0-1, 9 KOs), captured the WBC CABOFE super middleweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Kwesi Jones, to go along with his New York State title.
Undefeated middleweight DonYil Livingston (7-0-1, 4 KOs), who was an outstanding amateur who took off several years off before turning pro, was victorious in five of six fights this year with one draw. The 27-year-old boxer bounced back from his draw with a strong six-round decision against previously unbeaten (6-0) Kurtiss Colvin.
Power-punching Eudy "AK 47"Bernardo (11-0, 6 KOs), who moved to New York City, won all of his fights this year, including an eighth-round TKO of John Nolasco for the Dominican Lightweight Championship, and a six-round decision against former U.S. amateur standout Darnell Jiles (8-2-1), Jr. this past weekend in Rochester.
Visa problems prevented undefeated Kazakhstan welterweight Vitaly "Demyan" Demyanenko (19-0, 12 KOs) from fighting in 2011. The former PABA and WBO Asia Pacific champion will make his Boxing 360 debut in 2012.
Boxing 360 recently signed three more fighters from the Tri-State area: super middleweight Aleem "The Hammer" Whitfield (3-0, 3 KOs), super middleweight Travis "The Notorious" Peterkin (3-0, 3 KOs) and lightweight Bryan Acaba (2-0, 1 KO).
Go to www.Boxing360.com for more information about any of its other fighters.
Silgado Smashing In American Debut
BROOKLYN, NY (December 18, 2011)— It took nearly two years but undefeated Cruiserweight Santander Silgado was unleashed for the first time on American soil as he scored an impressive second round knockout over Glenn Williams that past Thursday night in North Bergen, New Jersey
Silgado scored knockdowns in each of the two rounds with booming right hands with the latter shot ending the fight. Williams got to his fight but was on unsteady legs and the fight was waved off by referee Earl Morton at 2:51 of the round.
“It feels so great”, said an ecstatic twenty-six year old Silgado who ran his perfect mark to 19-0 with seventeen knockouts.
“Many Colombians do not get an opportunity to show their skills in the United States and I am thankful for the shot. I felt a little rusty and I missed the ring during the inactivity but I quickly felt comfortable in there.”
“I need two or three more fights and I am ready to fight anybody in the Cruiserweight division”
Silgado of Monteria, Colombia but now training in Brooklyn, New York is promoted by Rob Diaz and Havoc Boxing Promotions
For more information on Havoc Boxing and Santander Silgado, contact:
Marc Abrams at 856 287 7611 or mabrams@15rounds.com; phillyboxing@gmail.com
Photos: More On Ward's Lopsided Victory Over Carl Froch
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (Dec. 18, 2011) - Andre Ward is the Super Six World Boxing Classic champion and the No. 1 super middleweight in the world. Ward dominated England's Carl Froch to win a unanimous decision by the scores of 118-110, 115-113 two times in front of 5,626 at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J. The victory unified the World Boxing Association and World Boxing Council super middleweight titles and also earned Ward The Ring Magazine belt as well as the inaugural Super Six World Boxing Classic cup.
A frontrunner for Fighter of the Year, Oakland, California's Ward (25-0, 13 KOs) scored an impressive victory, which has anointed him as the man to beat at 168 pounds. After the hard-fought unification bout, Ward had one word for his impressive evening and undefeated run through the two-plus year tournament: "Supernatural".
"It's supernatural. These are all great fighters. That's why you don't hear me talking badly about them before the fight. I know what I'm getting into. I just want to be a little bit better on the night of the fight."
Ward was more than a little bit better and proved once again that he can fight any type of fight and win convincingly. Despite being the faster, slicker boxer, Ward stayed in the pocket at many times throughout The Final and exchanged with the heavy-hitting Froch. However, Ward also displayed his superior defense and boxing ability.
"He's very good defensively," Froch said of Ward. "I couldn't get my shots off. I never found myself in the range. Ward was either too close and smothering me or too far away."
Ward was too quick for Froch. Froch (28-2, 20 KOs) seemed tight throughout the fight and frustrated by Ward's ability to slip punches.
"Right away, I was actually surprised how slow Froch was," said Ward. "We were just able to beat him to the punch and that's what won us the fight."
Froch was gracious in defeat and offered no excuses. "I lost tonight, fair and square. I had a bad night."
He elaborated, "I couldn't get anything going. He's very slippery. It was very frustrating for me. It was a bad night."
After the final bell of the Super Six World Boxing Classic rang, Ward raised his hands in victory when judge John Keane (United Kingdom) awarded him the bout 118-110 and both Craig Metcalfe (Canada) and John Stewart (United States) scored the 12-rounder for Ward at 115-113.
Ward's arduous journey through the Super Six tournament included dominant victories over former champion Mikkel Kessler (TD11), Allan Green (UD12), Arthur Abraham (UD12) and Froch (UD12).
For Froch, the tournament provided mostly ups but some significant downs. He scored a split decision win over Andre Dirrell before losing his WBC title in a unanimous decision loss to Kessler. He rebounded by winning back the vacant WBC belt by unanimous decision over Abraham and then scored a majority decision victory over Glen Johnson in the Semifinals.
What either fighter will do next is uncertain - but tonight's culminating bout provided certainty in the division. As SHOWTIME intended when the network launched the tournament, the Super Six World Boxing Classic has determined the No. 1 super middleweight in the world. And that man is Andre Ward.
The event was promoted by Goossen Tutor Promotions, Matchroom Sport and Antonio Leonard Promotions, in association with Caesars Atlantic City and sponsored by Corona.
On the card tonight, highly ranked welterweight "Special K", Kell Brook of Yorkshire, UK put on an impressive performance against Luis Galarza (18-3, 14 KOs) of Antioch, TN. Brook (26-0, 18 KOs), a product of Matchroom Sport, said after the fight "The jab worked beautifully tonight and it set everything up for me. There is no rush to go for a world title, it's about being brought on at the right pace and I trust Eddie Hearn and the team to get me there in the right way.
It's only a matter of time but I'm not panicking" Despite a cut in the opening rounds that seemed to be caused by a headbutt, Houston's Cornelius White (18-1, 15 KOs) scored a unanimous decision over Yordanis Despaigne (9-2, 4 KOs) in a 6-round attraction. Despaigne also received a laceration on the top of his head in the bout, and the two opponents white trunks quickly turned to red.
Edison "Pantera" Miranda of Buenaventura, Colombia would improve his record to 35-5, with 30 KO's after dropping Floridian challenger Kariz Kariuki (24-10-2, 19 KOs) in round 5. Pantera connected with a series of strong left hooks and sent Kariuki to the canvas once before the referee was forced to stop the bout.
In the first fight of the night, Bowie Tupou (22-1, 16 KOs) went the 10-round distance with Donnell Holmes (33-2-2, 29 KOs). Despite a strong showing in round 10 by Holmes, it was Tupou who was awarded the unanimous decision victory.
In a special 4-round heavyweight attraction the referee may have let Jeremiah Witherspoon (2-2, 1 KO) take a few too many of John Lennox's punches when he was floored by a heavy barrage of fire at 50 seconds of round 3. It was the fourth knockout of the New Jersey natives career, putting Lennox at 8-1, 4 KOs.
Also on the card in a walkout bout, Boyd "Rainmaker" Melson (7-0, 4 KOs) kept his record unblemished with a knockout victory over Daniel Lugo (1-3).
Marroquin Outpoints Valcarcel, Results From Oklahoma
Ringside By: Juan Garza / Photos: David Sanchez II
In the latest installment of the "Red River Rumble" boxing series, which featured the latest stop for Top Rank's "Top Rank Live", featherweight prospect Roberto Marroquin (21-1 14KOs) scored a sound ten round unanimous decision over Carlos Valcarcel (12-4-4 5KOs) Saturday night at WinStar World Casino in Thackerville, OK. Marroquin opened up the contest showcasing his speed and accuracy, while Valcarcel tried to fend off a series of pinpoint combinations throughout the night. Although the bout went the scheduled 10 rounds, Marroquin was never in danger and controlled the bout with excellent ring generalship. Scores were 100-90 all around.
The co-featured bout saw Jose Roman improve to 13-0 10KOs, as he outworked Alejandro Rodriguez (12-5 6KOs) on his way to an eight round unanimous decision. Both fighters were tactical, but Roman was able to distance himself by being the aggressor.
In the sole heavyweight bout of the evening, Andy Ruiz Jr. (13-0 8KOs) remained unbeaten with a six round unanimous decision over Theron Johnson (5-7 1KO). Ruiz dropped Johnson in the opening round and never looked back. Scores were 60-53 all around.
Hector Vazquez (7-1 2KOs) cruised to a six round unanimous decision over Julio Cesar Rangel (8-5 5KOs). Scores were 60-54 (twice), 59-55.
Jessie Roman (8-0 5KOs) overcame a first round knockdown to come back and earn a six round unanimous decision over a tough Angel Rodriguez (6-6-2-1 4KOs). Roman got caught with a left that sent him to the canvas in the first, but then was able to outbox Rodriguez the rest of the way. Scores were 58-55 (twice) 57-56.
In a battle of unbeatens, Ivan Najera (5-0 4KOs) kept his loss column clear by defeating Jerry Fuentes (2-1 1KO). Najera decked Fuentes with a plush left in round one and would end up in front on the scorecards.
Fast rising and highly entertaining Luis Zarazua (3-0 1KO) shut out Guadalupe Perez (0-5) over four rounds. After working the body early on Perez, the effects paid off as Zarazua scored knockdowns in rounds 2 and 3 to go up on all scorecards: 40-34.
Ward Wins Super Six Tourney With Unanimous Decision Over Froch
In the finals of Showtime's Super Six tournament, WBA champ Andre Ward (25-0 13KOs) defeated Carl Froch (28-2 20KOs) via twelve round uanimous decision Saturday night at the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ. Scores were 115-113, 118-110, 115-113. In addition, Ward claims the WBC super middleweight title.
Undercard Results:
Kell Brook TKO(5) Luis Galarza
Bowie Tupou UD(10) Donnell Holmes
Edision Miranda TKO(5) Kariz Kariuki
Cornelius White UD(6) Yordanis Despaigne
John Lennox TKO(3) Jeramiah Witherspoon
Bizier Claims NABA Title
Kevin Bizier (17-0 12KOs) claimed the vacant NABA welterweight title with a twelve round unanimous decision over Lanardo Tyner (25-6-2 15KOs) Saturday night at the Pepsi Coliseum in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada. Scores were 117-111, 119-109, 118-110.
Antonin Decarie UD(12) Victor Puiu
Lionell Thompson TKO(2) Christian Cruz
Baha Laham TKO(6) Dave Aucoin
Sylvera Louis UD(6) Eric Bahoeli
Sebastien Bouchard KO(2) Patrick Tessier
Videos: Ward-Froch: Videos From Fight Week
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Andre Ward "SOG" & Carl Froch "COBRA"
Weigh In for Super Six Final
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Ward, Froch, Goossen, Hearn, Hunter, McCracken slideshow highlights
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Andre Ward Last Media Round Table Interview
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Carl Froch Last Media Round Table Interview
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Super Six Finals Promoters and Trainers talk about Ward vs Froch
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CONTACTS: Danny Brener, Goossen Tutor Promotions (818) 817-8001 dbrener@goossentutor.com Rodney Hunt, Goossen Tutor Promotions (818) 817-8001 Rodney@goossentutor.com
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Photos: Ward-Froch Weights
WBC super middleweight champion Carl Froch weighed in at 167.5, while WBA super middleweight champion Andre Ward scaled in at 168 for their SHOWTIME Super Six Final showdown on Saturday night in Atlantic City.
Other weights:
Kell Brook 148 vs. Luis Galarza 147.5
Bowie Tupou 242 vs. Donnell Holmes 226
Edison Miranda 175 vs. Kariz Kariuki 174.5
Yordanis Despaigne 174.5 vs. Cornelius White 173
Boyd Melson 155 vs. Danny Lugo 152.5
John Lennox 224.5 vs. Jeramiah Witherspoon TBA
Video: GQ's Rare Access To Carl Froch
Carl Froch is on the precipice of his greatest hour and premier men’s magazine GQ has released an exclusive video with The Cobra ahead of fight night.
GQ met with the Nottingham star before he left for America and the Super Six final with Andre Ward on Saturday live on Sky Sports.
Froch fans and all boxing fans should visit http://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/entertainment/articles/2011-12/16/carl-froch-super-six-boxing to watch the rare footage of the two-time WBC champion.
Interspersed with clips from his journey to this weekend’s blockbuster, Froch opens up on his past, present and future as he aims to unify the WBC, WBA and Ring Magazine belts and cement his place as the World leader at the weight and the best boxer fighting for Britain.
“GQ have created something very special with Carl which is must-see viewing,” said Carl’s promoter Eddie Hearn. “Carl is on the very edge of greatness and is now receiving the attention his talent and achievement deserves, and GQ’s footage is a great prelude to what promises to be a momentous occasion on Saturday night."
Marroquin-Valcarcel Weights
Roberto Marroquin 124 vs. Carlos Valcarcel 124.2
Jose Roman 133.4 vs. Alejandro Rodriguez 133.4
Andy Ruiz 262.6 vs. Theron Johnson 231
Hector Vazquez 147 vs. Julio Cesar Rangel 145.4
Jessie Romab 135.8 vs. Angel Rodriguez 137.2
Ivan Najera 135.2 vs. Jerry Fuentes 134.6
Luis Zarazua 124.2 vs. Guadalupe Perez 123.2
Venue: WinStar World Casino, Thackerville, Oklahoma
Promoter: Top Rank
TV: FSN/Fox Deportes 10 pm et/7 pm pt
Holiday Treat As HBO's "Boxing's Best" Returns
It’s a holiday treat for HBO® Boxing fans. Over four consecutive nights in late December, HBO Sports® will present seven of the year’s standout fights, showcasing the biggest names in the sport.
Starting Monday, Dec. 26 at 11:00 p.m., HBO Sports will replay seven major league showdowns from this year over four consecutive nights. HBO viewers will get to revisit the most memorable, most significant and most compelling bouts that were televised on the HBO service, including an opening night tripleheader on the 26th that features the historic win by all-time great Bernard Hopkins.
The “Boxing’s Best” lineup includes:
Monday, Dec. 26 at 11:00 p.m. -- Jean Pascal vs. Bernard Hopkins II
Monday, Dec. 26 at 12:00 a.m. -- Amir Khan vs. Lamont Peterson
Monday, Dec. 26 at 1:00 a.m. -- Andre Berto vs. Victor Ortiz
Tuesday, Dec. 27 at 11:00 p.m. -- Floyd Mayweather vs. Victor Ortiz
Tuesday, Dec. 27 at 12:00 a.m. -- Manny Pacquiao vs. Juan Manuel Marquez III
Wednesday, Dec. 28 at 12:00 a.m. -- Alfredo Angulo vs. James Kirkland
Thursday, Dec. 29 at 11:00 p.m. -- Miguel Cotto vs. Antonio Margarito II
All times are ET/PT.
*Winner’s names are in italics.
“Boxing’s Best” will be available on HBO ON DEMAND® and HBO GO®
International Boxing Federation (IBF) Cruiserweight Champion Yoan Pablo Hernandez (25-1, 13 KOs) and Steve Cunningham (24-3, 12 KOs) will meet again in Frankfurt on February 4. Hernandez had dethroned his American opponent on October 1, winning a technical decision in Neubrandenburg. The fight was stopped on cuts, with Hernandez ahead on the scorecards after scoring a first-round knockdown. “The rematch will be a real treat for boxing fans,” Team Sauerland General Manager Chris Meyer said. “Hernandez against Cunningham, that´s as good as it gets in the cruiserweight division. Their first fight was a thriller and I am sure the rematch will be even more exciting.”
In the co-featured main event, Enad Licina (21-3, 11 KOs) will face former amateur world champion Alexander Alexeev (22-2, 20 KOs) for the vacant European Cruiserweight Title. European Light Heavyweight Champion Eduard Gutknecht (22-1, 9 KOs) also defends his title against Viacheslav Uzelkov (25-1, 16 KOs).
McDermott Stops Abraham In Four
NORTH BERGEN, NJ (December 16, 2011)—Danny “Little Mac” McDermott thrilled an enthusiastic crowd at Schuetzen Park by scoring a fourth round stoppage over Bryan Abraham in a scheduled six round Jr. Welterweight bout that highlighted a five bout card promoted by Rich Komissar Promotions as part of the new series : Tommy Gallagher Winners Have Scars.
McDermott and Abraham traded heavy blows for much of the fight with each guy having an advantage at various times in the bout.
McDermott landed a heavy combination that sent Abraham back to the ropes and the North Bergen native jumped on his foe and the fight was stopped at 2:38 of round four.
Colombian Cruiserweight Santander Silgado opened the show with a second round destruction over Glen Williams in a bout scheduled for six rounds.
Silgado dropped Williams in each frame with big right hands and the bout was stopped immediately after Williams was sent to the canvas in the second by referee Earl Morton.
Tevin Farmer of Philadelphia scored a second round stoppage over Brooklyn’s Ian James in a scheduled four round Lightweight bout.
Daniel Crabtree battered and spoiled the pro debut of crowd favorite Danny Terrill in round three of their scheduled four round Welterweight bout.
Newark’s Thomas Baldwin got off the canvas and was able to salvage a draw with Dominique Foster in a four round Jr. Middleweight bout.
“This show is exactly what we had in mind when we thought up the series”, said Komissar
“McDermott fought his typical fight and gave the fans action from the opening bell. The two fighters from Ohio came in and gave terrific accounts of themselves and in the process put on great fights. This was a great night of action and we are already looking forward for our next show in New York”
FULL RESULTS
6 ROUNDS—JR. WELTERWEIGHTS—Danny McDermott (9-3-1, 4 KO’s) 144 ½ lbs of North Bergen, NJ TKO 4 (2:38) over Bryan Abraham (5-10-2) 144 ¾ lbs of Schenectady, NY
4 ROUNDS—WELTERWEIGHTS—Daniel Crabtree (2-3, 2 KO’s) 147 lbs of Hilliard, OH TKO 3 (1:18) over Danny Terrill (0-1) 148 lbs of Farmingdale, Long Island
4 Rounds—MIDDLEWEIGHTS—Thomas Baldwin (2-0-2) 155 ¼ lbs of Newark, NJ SPLIT DRAW with Dominique Foster (0-0-1) 156 lbs of Hilliard, OH…scores were 38-37 each way and 38-38
4 ROUNDS—LIGHTWEIGHTS—Tevin Farmer (3-2-1, 1 KO) 133 ½ lbs of Philadelphia, PA TKO 2 (0:23) over Ian James (1-2) 135 lbs of Brooklyn, NY
6 ROUNDS—CRUISERWEIGHTS—Santander Silgado (19-0, 17 KO’s) 206 ¼ lbs of Monteria, Colombia TKO 2 (2:51) over Glen Williams (7-6-1) 208 lbs of Houston, TX
Contact:
Marc Abrams at 856 287 7611 or mabrams@15rounds.com; phillyboxing@gmail.com
Lupo-Decarie WBC International Welterweight Fight Saturday Night In Quebec City
TORONTO (December 16, 2011) - Popular Romanian boxer Victor Lupo has fully prepared for the toughest fight of his pro career, tomorrow (Saturday) night in the 12-round main event against former world title challenger Antonin Decarie for the vacant World Boxing Council ("WBC") International Welterweight Championship, at Pepsi Coliseum in Quebec City.
Lupo (19-1-2, 9 KOs), who lives in Toronto, earned his title shot having defeated former world champion Junior Witter (37-3-2) last February by a 10-round decision for the vacant WBC International Silver title. Presently rated No. 19 by the WBC, Lupo is a former Canadian welterweight and WBC Fedecentro middleweight champion, who is unbeaten the past four years ago.
WBC #26-rated Decarie, of Quebec, is a former Canadian light welteweight and NABO welterweight champion, who lost a 12-round unanimous decision in 2010 to Souleymane M'baye for the interim World Boxing Association ("WBA") welterweight title.
Lupo's Hennessy Sports Canada stable-mate, undefeated light heavyweight Lionnell "Lonnie B" Thompson (11-0, 7 KOs), is also fighting tomorrow night in an eight-round bout versus Christian Cruz (12-12-1, 10 KOs).
Thompson, fighting out of Buffalo, was a U.S. amateur standout who was rated as high as No. 2 in his division. He was a five-time New York Golden Glove and three-time Empire State champion.
Go on line at www.HennessySports.com for more information about Lupo, Thompson, or any their stable-mates.
Other members of the Hennessy Sports Canada stable include NABA super featherweight champion and that organization's 2011 Fighter of the year, Logan Cotton McGuinness, and unbeaten prospects Tyler Asselstine, Samuel Vargas and Brandon "Bad Boy" Cook.
Photos: Morales-Garcia, & Kirkland Presser
Photos: Andrew Richardson/Hoganphotos
WBC Super Lightweight World Champion Erik Morales(Left) and undefeated number two rated WBC super lightweight contender Danny Garcia (Right) pose on December 15, 2011 in Houston, Texas at the press conference to officially announce their January 28, 2012 world title fight at Reliant Arena in Houston which will be televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark. Top rated junior middleweight contender James Kirkland addresses memebers of the media on December 15, 2011 in Houston, Texas at the press conference to officially announce his co-featured fight against Carlos Molina.
Time Change: Super Six Final Ward & Froch Weigh-In Moved To 4 pm ET
ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (Dec. 15, 2011) - The SHOWTIME Super Six World Boxing Classic Final contestants, World Boxing Association (WBA) world champion Andre Ward (24-0, 13 KOs) and WBC champion Carl Froch (28-1, 20 KOs) will hit the scales live from Caesars Atlantic City tomorrow, Dec. 16 at 4 p.m. ET.
The event, which is open to the public, will take place at the Circus Max Theater and also stream LIVE at: goossentutor.com and sports.sho.com courtesy of TVU Networks.
The undercard fighters will weigh in immediately after Ward and Froch. To find out more about the line up, you can click here.
Tickets for SUPER SIX WORLD BOXING CLASSIC FINAL and live undercard are priced at $300, $200, $100 and $50 and can be purchased at the Boardwalk Hall Box Office, or by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 736-1420 or online at ticketmaster.com and doors for the event open at 5 p.m. ET.
Promoted by Goossen Tutor Promotions, Matchroom Sport and Antonio Leonard Promotions, in association with Caesars Atlantic City and sponsored by Corona.
Abraham, Bute, Dirrell, Kessler & Johnson Analyze Froch vs. Ward Fight
NEW YORK (Dec. 15, 2011) – Saturday’s blockbuster super middleweight showdown between Super Six World Boxing Classic finalists Andre Ward and Carl Froch has captivated the attention of the boxing world – especially those in the 168-pound division. Andre Dirrell, Arthur Abraham, Glen Johnson and Lucian Bute are predicting World Boxing Association super middleweight champion Ward (24-0, 13 KOs) will be the last man standing and proudly lifting the inaugural Super Six World Boxing Classic Cup in victory come Saturday, Dec. 17, from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J., live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).
Of the recently polled crop of 168-pounders, only Mikkel Kessler feels Froch (28-1, 20 KOs) has what it takes to hand Ward his first career loss.
Kessler and Abraham are the only boxers who have faced both Super Six finalists.
Dirrell, who served as Ward’s Olympic teammate in 2004 and suffered a tough split-decision loss to Froch early in the Super Six, feels Ward will not be influenced by Froch’s past fights and will stick to a carefully laid-out game plan.
“Ward will make his own assessments from the fights that Froch has had,” Dirrell said. “I believe that Froch has gotten better since he fought me. I believe he’s grown with each fight so it will be a different fight. You could take the game plan that I had and use it against Froch. But Andre Ward is pretty set with his own game plan.”
Dirrell plans to see if his assessments are correct in person. He and his younger brother Anthony – also an aspiring super middleweight contender – will be ringside for The Final. Also expected in attendance are Bute and Kessler.
Here’s what a host of top super middleweights had to say about Saturday night’s fight, along with their individual results facing the Super Six finalists:
ANDRE DIRRELL:
Super Six Result: Lost split-decision to Froch (Oct. 17, 2009);
“My sense is going toward Ward. I believe Ward will win it – not just because he is a smart fighter but because when it’s time to battle, he knows how to battle. But ultimately, his smarts come into play. He knows how to handle these fighters. It’s almost like he dissects them. He’s pretty in tune to this sport. In every fight he’s had in the Super Six, he’s switched up his game plan and they worked to perfection. He has a game plan for Froch as well. It won’t be easy. I honestly believe there will be a cut in the fight. Andre Ward has his tactics and Froch has his tactics so it’s going to be a rough fight, maybe a few bumps and bruises. But overall, I see Andre Ward winning it.
“This tournament right here, this Final right here, both fighters will be put up on the pedestal win or lose. The greatest fighters in this division were in this tournament. Both Ward and Froch have proven themselves very well. Regardless if they win or lose, they’ll both have big things to come after the tournament. I hope for the best for both of them, honestly. “
ARTHUR ABRAHAM:
Super Six Result: Lost unanimous decision to Froch (Nov. 27, 2010) and Ward (May 14, 2011).
“I think Andre Ward is going to win on points. He is tactically better and his style is hard to fight against. I don’t think many fans like his style, though.
“Winning the Super Six tournament will be huge for the winner.
“To be considered the top of the division, the winner should fight Kessler.”
MIKKEL KESSLER:
Super Six Result: Lost technical decision to Ward (Nov. 21, 2009); Won unanimous decision over Froch (April 24, 2010).
“If he does his homework, I think Carl Froch is going to win. He is very strong and he wants to fight. Ward is good and fast, too, but I think Froch will win. He will have learned from the mistakes I did against Ward. So many things went wrong for me that night. Another advantage for Froch is the tournament history – he had some very tough fights that made him even stronger. So my pick is Froch.
“Winning the Super Six tournament will be as good as it gets. That is what we all have been fighting for. The winner will be one of the bests – not the best because he still has to fight me to prove he is the ultimate champion.”
GLEN JOHNSON:
Super Six Result: Lost a majority decision to Froch (June 4, 2011)
“The event means everything to the division. It gave the super middleweight division the most attention – it’s everything. It’s a launching pad, a stage where the best can fight the best and stars are made. There’s no way the division would get this much attention without the tournament and these fights would never have happened. It’s been a wonderful thing for not just the super middleweight division but also for boxing.
“I have to go with Ward in The Final. He’s the only guy who’s undefeated in the tournament and he’s found a way to win. You’ve got to give him the biggest chance because of all the guys that fought the top fighters, he’s the only one who stayed undefeated at that level.
“Froch has a puncher’s chance, that’s the only chance I can give him. I don’t think he can win on points – he’s not a fast guy and he doesn’t throw a lot of combinations. Ward has a tough style and Froch is going to have to land some big punches to change the opinion of the crowd. And even though they are both champions, he’s going to have to beat the champ to win. You’ll have to beat Ward to get that credit, and I just don’t see that happening.
“I don’t think Froch is fast enough to keep up with Ward’s combos. There are some people who think Ward has a soft chin, but I don’t think it’s necessarily true. Early on in his career Ward hadn’t adjusted with how to get hit without headgear, but now he has and Froch will only have a puncher’s chance to capture the Super Six Cup.”
LUCIAN BUTE, Current Undefeated IBF Super Middleweight World Champion:
“In my opinion, I think Andre Ward will be the winner of the Super Six. He is a smart fighter with good skills and he will avoid the power punch of Carl Froch. The fight on Dec. 17 is huge for the 168-pound division. I want to face the champion of this classic and really reign over the super middleweight division. I'm ready to fight Ward or Froch anywhere, anytime.”
The event is promoted by Goossen Tutor Promotions, Matchroom Sport and Antonio Leonard Promotions, in association with Caesars Atlantic City and sponsored by Corona.
Tickets are on sale at the Boardwalk Hall box office or by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 736-1420 or online at ticketmaster.com. All tickets purchased for the original event date will be honored on Dec. 17. If ticket holders are not able to attend on Dec. 17, refunds are available at the point of purchase. The non-televised undercard begins at 6 p.m. ET.
Photo: Chavez-Paez Presser
Photo: Rafael Soto/Zanfer
Sons of Legends Omar Chavez and Jorge Paez Jr. faced off today in advance of their clash Saturday at the “Jorge Serrano Cuesy” Metropolitan Arena in Tuxtla Gutierrez. The “Businessman” Chavez (27-0-1, 20 KOs) and “Maromerito” Paez (29-4-1, 18 KOs) will collide in a ten rounder in the welterweight division.
Omar Chavez: “I’ve done a lot of preparation at the Wild Card Gym with trainer Freedy Roach and Alex Ariza and that will be reflected in the ring on Saturday. I bring great condition, speed, and endurance. I will face an opponent with experience and name and it will be a great fight which the fans will enjoy.”
Jorge Paez Jr.: “Two are sons of famous fathers makes this a more interesting fight and whoever leave as the winner will teally have their career take off. This is a key fight so we’re prepared for a tough fight. The fans will be the real winner.”
The semifinal will feature former flyweight world champion Julio Cesar “Pingo” Miranda and Cecilio “Boga” Santos
Jimmy Lange Returns Saturday Feb. 11
Officials announced today that Jimmy Lange Boxing, presented by Valcourt Building Services, will return to the Patriot Center on Saturday, February 11, 2012 for another fight card featuring top area boxers. Considered one of the mid-Atlantic region’s premier boxing showcases, the event is scheduled to host three world championship title fights, headlined by junior middleweight Jimmy Lange’s first title defense of his World Boxing Union (WBU) 154-pound championship belt (opponent TBD).
Tickets, starting at $35, are scheduled to go on sale Wednesday, December 7, 2011 and can be purchased at all Ticketmaster outlets including the Patriot Center box office.
Lange (37-4-2, 25 KOs), who has headlined all 13 previous Patriot Center boxing shows since returning from his participation on The Contender TV series, captured the WBU title last September by knocking Raul Munez down three times en route to his 25th victory by knockout. The Great Falls, VA fighter continues to draw large, enthusiastic crowds from across the region while advancing the ranks in the junior middleweight division.
After making her successful Patriot Center debut last fall with a victory over Michelle Garland, Tori “Sho Nuff” Nelson (5-0-1) of Ashburn, VA is scheduled to return and defend her World International Boxing Association (WIBA) middleweight championship in a ten-round affair (opponent TBD). A single mom who holds down three jobs (school bus driver, cafeteria worker and waitress) outside of the ring, Nelson has quickly climbed the ranks in women’s boxing in a short period of time. She captured the World Boxing Council’s (WBC) middleweight championship last summer when she upset Lorissa Rivas via split decision in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.
In a classic Northern Virginia vs. Maryland showdown, unbeaten Zain “Tiger” Shah of Chantilly, VA (6-0, 4 KOs) puts his unblemished record on the line against Stevensville, MD’s Tony “Mo Better” Jeter (12-2-1, 9 KOs) in a six-round middleweight contest. Both fighters are familiar names on the Beltway boxing scene known for their punching prowess. Training out of LA Boxing’s Reston gym, Shah has recorded second-round knockouts in his last two fights, including a win over Julius “Vicious” Kennedy last September at the Patriot Center. Meanwhile, the hard-hitting Jeter, who beat Ken Dunham last month at Showplace Arena, is riding an unbeaten streak of nine bouts dating back to early 2008. The Club Fitness boxer scored a highly-memorable KO over Keith Gross in his Patriot Center debut on September 26, 2009.
Also slated to appear on the card (opponent TBD) is undefeated, rising welterweight prospect Todd “White Lightning” Wilson (11-0, 3 KOs) of Fairfax, VA and ABGC boxing gym in Annandale, VA. In his biggest win-to-date, Wilson, a business development specialist at Booz Allen Hamilton, defeated former D.C. world champion Eric “Mighty Mouse” Aiken at the last Patriot Center show.
Officials are working on adding a third world title bout to the card. Doors will open at 6:00 pm, with the first fight scheduled to begin at 7:00 pm. All bouts are subject to change.
Tickets, priced at $35, $50, $75, $125, $200, $300 and $500 (plus applicable service charges), will be available for purchase through all Ticketmaster outlets including the Patriot Center box office, online at www.ticketmaster.com/ and via Phonecharge at 703-573-SEAT, 202-397-SEAT and 410-547-SEAT. Accessible seating is available for patrons with disabilities by calling 703-993-3035.
Photos: Klitschko vs. Chisora Presser
Photos: Public Address
WBC World Heavyweight Champion Vitali Klitschko and his challenger Dereck Chisora stepped in front of the media today to talk about their fight which will happen on February 18 at the Olympiapark in Munich, Germany.
Vitali Klitschko: “Chisora is a young, highly motivated and hungry fighter who will give me a very, very tough fight. Once again, I want to prove to my fans world wide that I am the true champion and the best way to do so is a knockout victory!”
Dereck Chisora: “I will be a real plague for Dr. Steelhammer and I don’t think that the doctor knows how to cure it. I will shock the boxing world and get Vitali’s WBC belt.”
Tickets are available on www.eventim.de, prices starting at 30 euro only.
Victor Ortiz vs. Andre Berto II Tickets Go On Sale For Feb. 11 Fight At MGM Grand
LAS VEGAS (December 15)...Since the final bell of rang on April 16, 2011, boxing fans and the media have been clamoring for a rematch between Victor Ortiz and Andre Berto. Golden Boy Promotions and DiBella Entertainment are proud to announce that it's now official and tickets for "Ortiz vs. Berto II" will go on sale this SATURDAY, Dec. 17 at 10 a.m. PST. The 12-round welterweight fight is set for Saturday, Feb. 11 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nev. The fight will be televised live on SHOWTIME Championship Boxing at 10 p.m. EST/PST (delayed on the West Coast).
Tickets priced at $300, $150, $100 and $50 go on sale Saturday, Dec. 17 at 10 a.m. PST. and will be sold at all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations (select Smith's Food and Drug Centers and Ritmo Latino). Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also are available for purchase at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.
Beibut Shumenov Honored In Kazakhstan
LAS VEGAS (December 15, 2011) - World Boxing Association ("WBA") and International Boxing Association ("IBA") light heavyweight World champion Beibut Shumenov returned home this week to receive one of the highest awards presented by the Republic of Kazakhstan, the "Barys (Snow Leopard) Award III."
Normally given to political and military dignitaries, the "Barys Award" recipients are personally selected by President Nursultan Abishevich Nazarbayev for internationally promoting Kazak culture through, in Shumenov's case, his accomplishments in sports.
Introduced in 1999, the "Barys Award" is presented to individuals for service in strengthening the State System and Sovereignty of the Republic of Kazakhstan, guaranteeing peace, consolidating the community and unity of the people of Kazakhstan in state, industrial, scientific, socio-cultural and public activity, and consolidating cooperation among peoples, rapprochement and inter-enrichment of national cultures.
The ceremony was held this past Wednesday at the White House of Kazakhstan, Ak-Orda, in the capital of Astana during the 20th anniversary celebration week of Kazakhstan's independence.
"I am very humbled to receive this prestigious award," Shumenov said. "I never dreamed of being honored like this. I would like to sincerely thank President Nazarbayev and his staff, as well as all people of Kazakhstan, most especially my family to whom I am so grateful for everything."
Shumenov (12-1, 8 KOs), a 2004 Kazakhstan Olympian, will soon announce his next title defense and continue his quest to unify the world light heavyweight championship.
Alan Sanchez vs. Albert Herrera To Headline "Solo Boxeo Tecate" Tomorrow Night
LOS ANGELES, December 15 - TeleFutura's "Sólo Boxeo Tecate" will head to the Woodland Community Center in Woodland, California tomorrow night, Friday, December 16 for a pre-holiday event featuring California prospects Alan Sanchez of Fairfield and Alberto Herrera of Riverside battling it out in an eight round welterweight main event that will pack some heavyweight firepower. Plus, unbeaten San Diego lightweight Guy Robb risks his perfect record against Palm Springs' Hugo Ramos in the six round co-main event.
Sanchez vs. Herrera headlines a night of world-class professional boxing presented by Don Chargin Productions and Golden Boy Promotions in association with Paco Presents and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate and AT&T. Doors open at 7:30pm PT, the first bell rings at 8:30pm PT and the TeleFutura broadcast begins at 12:30am ET / PT.
Tickets, priced at $30, $40 and $60, are on sale now and available for purchase at Paco's Restaurant (530) 669-7946, Taqueria Guadalajara #1 (530) 668-0628 and Travis Credit Union at 1372 E. Main St., Woodland, CA or (530) 668-0573.
20-year old Fairfield prospect Alan Sanchez (8-2-1, 3 KO's) has come out swinging thus far in 2011, defeating three quality opponents in 62-fight veteran Cristian Favela (W8), unbeaten John Grimaldo (W8), and Clint Coronel (TKO7). The victories established Sanchez as one of the top prospects in California and now he's aiming to make a big impression in his year-ending bout on TeleFutura in front of his hometown crowd.
Another one of California's most talented boxers, Riverside's Alberto Herrera (8-3, 5 KO's) has weathered some ups and downs, but the fearless 30-year-old still prides himself on never backing down from a fight. Herrera's last five opponents have sported a combined record of 42-2-1, so tough opposition is no problem for him. In his last bout on October 14, Herrera handed unbeaten Marcus Robinson his first professional defeat via a six round decision and he wants to keep the momentum going against Sanchez.
San Diego up-and-comer Guy Robb (6-0, 2 KO's) has built a solid fan following since making his professional debut in 2010. After scoring two first round knockouts and three decision wins in his first five fights, he upped the ante in his most recent bout on September 16 and impressed all observers with a near shutout victory over 6-0-1 Pablo Armenta. Now, he's got veteran Hugo Ramos in his sights.
Hailing from Palm Springs, California, 21-year-old Hugo Ramos (3-10-2, 1 KO) has faced eight unbeaten opponents thus far in his nearly three-year professional career and has pushed them all but one of them to the limit. He is coming to fight on December 16 knowing that a win over the unbeaten Robb could be the start of something big in 2012.
Fans at home can also be part of the action by participating in Cinturón Tecate and voting for the fighter in the main event who displayed the most character in the ring by sending a text message to 55333. Voting will be open through the end of the weekend.
Tecate, cerveza con carácter, is the largest beer brand to sponsor boxing matches in the U.S. Part of its commitment to make boxing accessible to consumers is the title sponsorship of "Sólo Boxeo Tecate," which creates an opportunity for local fans to witness some of the most exhilarating fights by today's up-and-coming prospects. Additionally, Tecate has been a primary supporter of Golden Boy Promotions' marquee events since 2007, and has launched a variety of initiatives to ensure consumers are part of the boxing experience, including boxer autograph signing sessions, commemorative cans, PPV mail-in rebate offers, and most recently the launch of a mobile museum "Tecate Museo de Boxeo," which showcases decades of the most memorable moments in the sport.
For more information on Golden Boy Promotions, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, or visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing.
Molitor's Unfinished Business vs. Gauthier
Photos: Durrell Wambolt/ theboxingexaminer.com
MISSISSAUGA, Ontario (December 15, 2011) -- Two-time world super bantamweight champion Steve "The Canadian Kid" Molitor has picked out the perfect Christmas present for provincial rival Sebastian Gauthier, wrapped with a bow on top and even delivered it to Quebec City. Unfortunately, at least for now, the gift remains unopened.
Last month in Gauthier's backyard, after Molitor (34-2, 12 KOs) won a 10-round split decision on the Lucian Bute-Glenn Johnson card at Pepsi Center in Quebec City, Team Gauthier loudly complained about an unfair outcome and requested an immediate rematch. Team Molitor has officially offered a rematch February 11 to Gauthier (21-3, 13 KOs) at Hershey Centre in Mississauga, Ontario, which is where Steve lives and trains.
"It was a fairly easy fight for me," Molitor said, "other than for the massive cut over my eye that I got from a head-butt in the first round. The cut bled into my eye (left) the whole fight and it was difficult for me to see. I hurt him a few times but couldn't stick to my plan because of all the blood in my eye. It riled me a little and I lost my train of thought. I've been boxing 23 years and knew that a cut above the eye wasn't dangerous or reason to stop the fight. I was a little worried about that, though, when the doctor checked me right before the 10th round.
"After the decision was announced, they thought he won or that it should have been a draw. But there was no real controversy because I knew that, hands down, I had won. The only judge that didn't have me winning had the same last name as my opponent. Gauthier said he wanted a rematch and I said, no problem, but we'll fight this time in Mississauga."
In recent media reports, however, Gauthier has seemingly taken a side step, claiming that he now wants to fight Molitor sometime down the road. What apparently fueled talk about the decision being controversial may be attributed to French-Canadian television announcer Russ Anber's posting of round-by-round scoring on in-house screens at the venue, which was viewed by 15,000 emotionally-charged hometown fans supporting Gauthier, who wore merchandise and used equipment by Rival Boxing, a Canadian company co-founded by Anber. All three judges scored the bout, 96-94, but the lone official who ruled in Gauthier's favor, incidentally, was indeed Jean Gauthier.
"Gauthier talked the talk but he doesn't walk the walk," Molitor expressed his thoughts about why Sebastian hasn't accepted the Feb. 11th fight offer. "That's what separates him from being a world-class fighter. I don't need Sebastian Gauthier; he needs me to be considered a world-class fighter. I'm already proven.
"There's a lot of action in my division with (WBA champion Rico) Ramos fighting (WBA Interim champion Guillermo Rigondeaux) and it looks like (WBC & WBO champion Nonito) Donaire is fighting (Wilfredo) Vasquez in February. My division is congested at the top. I want to stay busy, stay active, so I'm going to squash this guy (Gauthier) February 11th to settle things once and for all. I won't be satisfied unless I knock him out this fight.
"I hope he (Gauthier) will do what he said (fight a rematch) he would. He needs to strap on shoes and hit the road. I won my first title on the road and defended my belt on the road, too. That's what it takes to be part of the elite group of boxers, going against a home crowd and hometown judging. I was asked about fighting Sebastian Gauthier in Quebec City and accepted without hesitation."
Molitor was a five-time Canadian National amateur champion who first captured the International Boxing Federation ("IBF") Super Bantamweight title in 2006 in his 23rd pro fight at the age of 26. The stylish southpaw traveled to the United Kingdom, where Steve stopped hometown favorite and previously unbeaten Michael Hunter (26-0-1) for the vacant title. Molitor successfully defended his crown five times during the next two years against, respectfully, 27-3 Takalani Ndlovu (TKO9), 56-8-1 Fahsan 3K Battery (DEC12), 34-4 Ricardo Castillo (DEC12), 30-2-1 Fernando Beltran, Jr. (DEC12) and 18-0 Ceferino Dario Labarda (TKO10).
In 2010, Molitor recaptured the IBF title by winning a 12-round decision in a rematch against Ndlovu, followed by a title-defense victory in the United Kingdom versus 35-5 Jason Booth, before losing by decision to Ndlovu last April in South Africa, completing their trilogy.
Now 31 and an 11 ½-year veteran, Molitor is rated No. 12 by the IBF but No. 7 by The Ring magazine, which has ranked Steve in its top 10 for more than six years.
"I'm a lot smarter now," Molitor commented. "Over the years, I've learned a lot through the trials and tribulations of boxing. I train everyday with a 21 year old, Samuel Vargas, and I can keep up with the young cats, no problem. I'm right where I want to be."
That's assuming, of course, that Gauthier steps-up and accepts the challenge that he requested to fight Molitor again.
Mexican Legend Erik Morales To Face Rising Star Danny Garcia On January 28 For WBC Super Lightweight Title
HOUSTON, TEX. (December 15) - To kick off the 2012 boxing year, Golden Boy Promotions and Box Latino Promotions will deliver a night of boxing that no fight fan will want to miss when future Hall of Famer Erik "El Terrible" Morales defends his WBC Super Lightweight title against unbeaten Philadelphian Danny "Swift" Garcia and James "Mandingo Warrior" Kirkland, fresh off of his thrilling fight against Alfredo Angulo, battles "King" Carlos Molina on Saturday, Jan. 28 at Reliant Arena in Houston, Texas in an HBO Boxing After Dark televised doubleheader that airs at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.
Tickets, priced at $250, $125, $75, $50 and $25, go on sale on Saturday, December 17 at 10:00 a.m. CT and may be purchased at all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling (800) 745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the Reliant Stadium box office south ticket windows.
"Danny Garcia is a strong, fast, young fighter," said Morales. "I have always said that I want to fight the best. Garcia is one of boxing's future stars and is highly rated, but I feel I will beat him without any problem. His time is not now."
"To be able to face legend like Erik Morales and headline an HBO fight card is what I have been waiting for my whole life," said Garcia. "I am going to work hard and make a statement on national television that I have what it takes to not only face one of the greats, but to beat him too."
"I am thrilled to be fighting in my home state of Texas," Kirkland said. "2011 was a whirlwind year for me and I am looking forward to kicking off 2012 on top. Molina is tough, but I am tougher. I want to keep this winning streak going and I'm not going to let anyone stop it."
"James Kirkland is capable of being stopped," Molina said. "We saw it in April and we will see it again in January. I am confident in my abilities and I know that with hard work, I will be the one with my hand raised at the end of the fight."
There were some skeptics when former Three-Division World Champion Erik "El Terrible" Morales (52-7, 36 KO's) returned from a three year layoff in 2010, but after three wins that year, Tijuana's "El Terrible" truly showed that he was back in 2011 with a Fight of the Year candidate against Marcos Maidana in April and a 10th round stoppage of unbeaten Pablo Cesar Cano that earned him the WBC Super Lightweight Title in a historic fourth divisional world title. On Jan. 28, the 35-year-old will look to defeat another unbeaten young gun in #2 rated WBC contender Danny Garcia.
Twenty-three-year old Philadelphian Danny "Swift" Garcia (22-0, 14 KO's) knows that being a fighter from the City of Brotherly Love means putting it all on the line every time you step into the ring. Thus far, no one has been able to stop the rise of this talented young fighter, and after back-to-back wins over former World Champions Nate Campbell and Kendall Holt in 2011, he's ready for his big opportunity to turn a current world champion into a former world champion when he faces the legendary Morales in Houston in his HBO debut.
The year 2011 was a tumultuous one for Texas knockout artist James "Mandingo Warrior" Kirkland (30-1, 27 KO's). After being out of the ring for nearly two years, "The Mandingo Warrior" returned with two quick knockout wins before ending up on the wrong side of a knockout against Nobuhiro Ishida. Undeterred, Kirkland bounced back with two knockout wins before his epic November battle with Alfredo Angulo in which he rose off the canvas in the first round and roared back to stop the rugged Mexican battler in six rounds. In January, the 27-year-old southpaw will look to begin his title run with a win over Carlos Molina.
A native of Patzcuaro, Mexico, 28-year-old "King" Carlos Molina (19-4-2, 6 KO's) didn't receive a lot of praise on his way up as a pro, but when he battled Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. to a draw in 2005 in a fight many believed Molina won, people started paying attention. He would lose his next three bouts to the 23-0-1 Chavez, 10-0 Wayland Willingham and 15-0 Mike Alvarado, but from then on, Molina hasn't lost a step or a bout, going 11-0-1 including a draw against Erislandy Lara and, in his most recent bout in July of 2011, a win over former World Champion Kermit Cintron.
Morales vs. Garcia is a 12-round bout for Morales' WBC Super Lightweight World Title and will take place on Saturday, January 28 at Reliant Arena in Houston, Tex. The co-featured bout will be between James Kirkland and Carlos Molina in a junior middleweight showdown. The evening of boxing is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Box Latino with Kirkland vs. Molina being presented in association with Warrior's Boxing and Promotions. The HBO Boxing After Dark broadcast begins at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.
A full undercard will be announced shortly. For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.reliantpark.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.twitter.com/terrible100, www.twitter.com/dannyswift, www.twitter.com/reliantpark or visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing or www.facebook.com/reliantparkfan. Follow HBO Boxing news at www.hbo.com/boxing, on Twitter @hboboxing and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hboboxing.
Tyson Fury Talks About Son's Fight For Life
The British and Commonwealth heavyweight champion admits he was a hopeless wreck as seven-week-old Prince came desperately close to dying.
All 6ft 9in and 17 stone of Fury shook with emotion when he revealed: "The doctors gave us 60-40 on whether he was going to pull through. “He was in intensive care for 2 weeks his heart rate kept going right down and it wasn’t looking very good. “You just don’t realise how much deep love you have for someone until they are about to die. “it really does hit you in the face, hits you harder and causes more hurt than any punch.”
Numb
Fury, 23, and wife Paris were numb with fear when their boy was admitted to the specialist children's hospital in Sheffield last month with a breathing problem.
Prince stopped breathing THREE times as his tiny body fought for life in an incubator. Fury added “He was only seven weeks old and he contracted bronchiolitis. “My wife was running around screaming and crying. “Being the man of the family, I had to show some strength but there were many times when I felt like crying as well. “We prayed to God and God answered our prays. “I was looking at my new born son with pipes coming out of him everywhere.
“There seemed miles of wires and he was plugged into 3 or 4 machines. He was in serious trouble. “We were in dreadful situation with the possibility of losing a child - the worst thing than can happen to any parent”.
Yet the crisis that engulfed the Fury family had started with what Tyson dismissed as know more than a kid with a snotty nose. He said: “How wrong can one man be?
“I came home at night and he looked perfect to me.
Manchester based Fury insisted: “I was blaming Paris, my wife. I thought she had been exaggerating when she was on the phone to me but when I reached the hospital it was all too plan to see she wasn’t. “It was me being the dickhead. I felt like a plonker.”
The shock of seeing his frail son so close to losing his fight for life seeped into dad Fury’s bones. He never left his sons bedside for over a week. Fury explained: “I didn’t leave the hospital for 10 days. “Like so many other parents in the same position. I slept there, I ate there and I prayed there. “The staff in Sheffield were brilliant. How can you thank them enough when they’ve saved your son’s life?”
I an uncanny twist, Tyson also had to be rushed to hospital as a new – born baby and he two had to be resuscitated.
Amazing
He said: “When Prince gets older and he is a boxer and a champion, he will have a big story to tell like his dad as well. “The coincidence is amazing expect I was a new – born when my heart stopped 3 times and he was seven weeks old when it happened to him. “We nearly lost him 3 times. “Three times his heart stopped and three times the brilliant staff at the hospital pulled him through. “No one can put into words the sense of relief, the sheer joy. I felt like I had been in a training camp for two years.”
A smile spread across Fury’s face when he revealed he is planning a special celebration next year to mark his son’s recovery.
He said: “The secret is I’m getting married again next year. “I’m going to renew vows with my wife Paris and we are also going to get our two kids, daughter Venezuela and Prince, Christened as well.”
The miracle is that the young Prince will be there.
Alexander-Maidana, Broner-Perez To Headline Feb. 15 HBO Card
Although the contracts still need to be signed, all fighters have agreed to the bouts and the upcoming February 25 HBO "Boxing After Dard" card will feature Devon Alexander taking on Marcos Maidana in a twelve round welterweight bout at the Scottrade Center in St. Louis. The bout will mark the debut for each fighter at welterweight.
In the co-feature, newly crowned world champ Adrien Broner will make the first defense of his title against Eloy Perez.
Glen Johnson To Have Surgery Next Month
Former world title holder Glen Johnson will undergo surgery to repair torn ligaments in both of his elbows. The procedure is scheduled for January and Johnson said he expects to make a full recovery and return to the ring sometime in 2012.
Khan Hopes To Have Decision Against Peterson Overturned
Amir Khan plans to appeal his split decision loss to Lamont Peterson and hopes that the final decision will be to overturn the result.
“We have appealed. In the next seven to ten days we should find out and it could be overturned. I was treated unfairly during the fight…The referee was from Washington so he was always going to favor the home fighter. He walks the streets of DC, so if he was fair and took points off Peterson he’d be hated in Washington. I don’t think he’ll be refereeing a big fight again. I want a rematch in a neutral venue,” Khan told BBC Sport.
Commemorative Ticket For Super Six Final
When SHOWTIME and five of the world's most respected professional boxing promoters formalized the strategy behind the SUPER SIX WORLD BOXING CLASSIC, it was their intent to create a tournament that would deliver a boost of excitement for boxing fans worldwide and pique the interest of the casual fan, while showcasing the tremendous array of talent in one of boxings hottest divisions - the Super Middleweights.
And now that the competition has come down to it's surviving "Dynamic Duo" of Andre Ward and Carl Froch, the SUPER SIX WORLD BOXING CLASSIC FINAL is receiving the star treatment reserved for sports and entertainment one-night mega-events as the Super Bowl, Oscars and World Cup - a VIP Commemorative ticket.
At the suggestion of promoter Dan Goossen, President of Goossen Tutor Promotions, a selected amount of people at Atlantic City's Boardwalk Hall attending will receive a Commemorative Ticket as a keepsake for the Saturday night, December 17 extravaganza. This collectors' item, which is printed on a clear vinyl card stock, features headshots of the two principals -- Ward and Froch; the logos of the event's promoters - SHOWTIME, Caesars Atlantic City, Goossen Tutor Promotions and Matchroom Sports; and a photo of the SUPER SIX WORLD BOXING CLASSIC FINAL Cup -- which goes to the winner of the inaugural event.
"We anticipate to have these one-of-a-kind tickets encased in a "clear paper weight casing" and just individually for fans interested in purchasing these unique and beautiful Final tickets as gifts or keepsakes of this ground-breaking event," said Goossen.
Promoted by Goossen Tutor Promotions, Matchroom Sport and Antonio Leonard Promotions, in association with Caesars Atlantic City and sponsored by Corona.
"Broadway Boxing" Series Returns In 2012
DiBella Entertainment's "Broadway Boxing" series will begin the 2012 season at the Roseland Ballroom in New York on January 21. Headlining the 10-bout card, which is loaded with a bevy of local New York talent, will be Brooklyn’s undefeated NABF light welterweight champion, Gabriel “Tito” Bracero (18-0, 3KO’s).
Several of DBE’s most promising up-and-coming prospects are set to see action on the card, including recent cruiserweight world title challenger Ran Nakash (25-1, 18KO’s) making his DBE debut, fast-rising WBA #5-rated featherweight contender Luis Del Valle (14-0, 11KO’s), super bantamweight Luis Rosa (9-0, 5KO’s), junior middleweight Delen Parsley (6-0, 2KO’s) and four-time Golden Gloves Champion Sonya Lamonakis (6-0, 1KO). Also scheduled to appear on the card are two of the New York area’s most popular, fan-friendly Irish prospects: light heavyweight Seanie Monaghan (11-0, 8KO’s) and heavyweight Thomas Hardwick (3-0, 2KO’s). A complete list of the undercard will be announced shortly.
Burgos Returns Feb. 24
Juan Carlos Burgos (28-1 9KOs) will defend his WBC Silver super featherweight title on February 24 when he faces Cristobal Cruz (39-12-3 23KOs). The bout will be part of ESPN's "Friday Night Fights" on ESPN2.
Photos: Ward-Froch Final Presser In NYC
Photos: Ed Mulholland
New York City, New York - Super middleweight champions Carl Froch and Andre Ward went face to face at the final press conference for Saturday's unification, where the WBC and WBA titles will be at stake. The fight, which takes place at the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, will crown the winner as the champion of the Super Six Boxing Classic.
CSAC Commisions Reverses TKO Win By Dawson To A No Decision
Moments ago at the California Commission meeting in Van Nuys, California, and seven CSAC commissioners voted on the Hopkins/Golden Boy appeal on the Bernard Hopkins vs Chad Dawson bout which was ruled as a TKO win for Dawson after Hopkins was thrown to the canvas and injured a shoulder causing the bout to be stopped. The Commission reversed the TKO win by Dawson and ruled the bout a No Decison.
Alcine Speask About Win Over Lemieux
New York, NY - (12/13/2011) - This past Saturday, on Dec. 10, in front of a packed house at the Bell Centre in Montreal, former junior middleweight world champion Joachim Alcine (33-2-1, 19KO's) turned in one of the most impressive performances of his 12-year professional career in winning an exciting 12-round decision over the highly regarded hometown favorite David Lemieux (25-2, 24KO's).
Going into the fight, many viewed Alcine as a sacrificial lamb for the extremely dangerous Lemieux, who wascoming off his first loss eight months earlier. All of the pre-fight talk leading up to the bout focused on how Lemieux was rededicated to the sport, had switched trainers, and was ready to resume his quest toward a world title. No one seemed to be paying much attention when Alcine calmly stated beforehand that he was finishing up his best ever training camp and that it was going to show come fight night.
When the fight started, Lemieux came out hard and fast as expected, bombing away with both hands looking to put an end to the fight quickly. Alcine had prepared for that though,DBE keeping a high guard to block many of the shots and staying on his toes moving effortlessly around the ring. Alcine, now 35 years old, was looking more like the fighter who, in 2007, went into the backyard of undefeated World Boxing Association (WBA) Light Middleweight Champion Travis Simms, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, to take Simms' title in dominant fashion via 12-round unanimous decision.
By the middle rounds, it was clear that Lemieux was tiring and Alcine, 13 years his senior, was the fresher of the two, boxing beautifully and even staggering the heavy-handed Lemieux on a few occasions.
V. Klitschko Will Defend His Title Against Chisora On Feb. 18th In Germany
Two-time WBC World Heavyweight Champion Vitali Klitschko will defend his title against Dereck Chisora at the Olympiahalle Munich, Germany on February, 18, 2012. Dereck “Del Boy” Chisora is 27 years old and is rated in the Top 15 in the WBC world rankings. From 2010 until 2011, Chisora was the Commonwealth and British heavyweight champion. In his last fight, Chisora lost a very controversial split decision against Robert Helenius in Helenius’ hometown of Helsinki, Finland. Every boxing fan that watched this fight thought that Chisora clearly won and should be the real European champion. Dereck Chisora‘s fight record is 15 wins (9 KOs) with two defeats.
Dereck Chisora: “Wladimir Klitschko did not fight me last year so I am now going to get the world championship belt from his older brother Vitali. I will show Vitali that his time is over and make him retire. After I beat Vitali, if Wladimir wants revenge I will also fight him and take all their heavyweight championship belts back to London!”
Vitali Klitschko is 40 years old with a professional record of 43-2 with 40 KOs. His two defeats came only as a result of injuries and he never lost his title in the ring. Klitschko has the highest knock out percentage of any world champion with 93 percent. Vitali Klitschko is only the fourth boxer along with Muhammad Ali, Evander Holyfield and Lennox Lewis to win a heavyweight championship belt for the third time. It will be Klitschko’s 16th World Heavyweight Championship fight in Munich.
Vitali Klitschko: “Chisora has proven in his last fights that he is very strong with his infighting. His great performance against Helenius showed that he should be the European champion but I won’t be intimidated by his trash talking.”
In Germany, Klitschko vs. Chisora will be shown live and exclusively on Klitschko’s German TV partner RTL.
Ticket sales start on December 14 and will be available on www.eventim.de.
Ward-Froch Press Conference And Weigh-In To Stream Live Online
NEW YORK (Dec. 12, 2011) - Christmas is coming a bit early for fight fans, as the SHOWTIME Super Six World Boxing Classic Final between WBA champion Andre Ward (24-0, 13 KOs) and WBC champion Carl Froch (28-1, 20 KOs) is finally here! The highly anticipated culmination of the two-year tournament to establish the most dominant super middleweight in the world will pit the two champions against one another this Saturday, December 17 at the historic Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ.
Catch Andre Ward and cheer on our American Olympic gold-medalist and world champion; or if you're a Carl Froch fan, you can root for him from across the pond.
Goossen Tutor Promotions has joined forces with TVU Networks to use their streaming technology to broadcast both the final press conference and the weigh in (this Friday) directly to your computer.
The final press conference will stream live from the Edison Ballroom in New York City TOMORROW, Dec. 13 at 12 p.m. ET.
Then, on Friday, Dec. 16 at 5 p.m. ET, the two champions will hit the scales live from Caesars Atlantic City.
The footage will stream LIVE at: goossentutor.com and sports.sho.com.
Andre Dirrell Returns Against Cunningham Dec. 30th, On ShoBox
Photo: Tom Casino/SHOWTIME
Long regarded as one of the world’s premier super middleweight contenders, Andre Dirrell will return to the ring for the first time in 21 months when he faces Darryl Cunningham in the co-feature of a special edition of ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, Dec. 30, live on SHOWTIME® (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Morongo Casino Resort & Spa in Cabazon, Calif. Dirrell (19-1, 13 KOs), of Flint, Mich., has not fought since winning by 11th-round disqualification over Arthur Abraham in The Super Six World Boxing Classic on March 27, 2010. Cunningham (24-2, 10 KOs), of Detroit, has been victorious in 17 consecutive starts and has not lost since December 2007.
The ShoBox main event will spotlight another comeback — that of former undisputed middleweight world champion Jermain Taylor (28-4-1, 17 KOs), of Little Rock, Ark., in a scheduled 10-round middleweight bout. Taylor’s first start in 26 months represents a return to the division he once dominated. Taylor will face Jessie Nicklow (22-2-3, 8 KOs) of Baltimore, Md.
In the opening bout of the telecast, former Cuban amateur standout Luis “El Leon” Garcia (11-0, 9 KOs) of Cork, Ireland, meets southpaw Alexander “The Great” Johnson (12-0, 5 KOs, 1 NC) of Oxon Hill, Md., in an eight-round showdown of undefeated light heavyweights.
Dirrell anticipates challenging for a world title in 2012 but for now the 2004 Olympic Games bronze medalist is content to be fighting again and focused on Dec. 30.
“I’ve been waiting for this for the longest time,’’ he said. “(The time off) seemed like forever.’’
Dirrell’s last fight – a Super Six Group Stage 2 bout against Abraham in Detroit – ended abruptly after an illegal Abraham right hand to the head rendered Dirrell unconscious. The illicit punch came while Dirrell, who had slipped in Abraham’s corner, was down on one knee. The referee halted the contest at 1:13 of the 11th round, ruling Dirrell the winner by DQ. Dirrell was comfortably ahead at the time by the scores of 98-91 and 97-92 twice.
The athletically gifted Dirrell, 28, cited neurological problems stemming from the Abraham bout and dropped out of the Super Six tournament. He now says he has a clean bill of health and is ready to not only resume his promising career but make a statement in his first bout back.
“It’s real important I go in and give a good showing,” said Dirrell, who trains at the Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas. “I’m not worried about what happened in the past. The only thing I’m worried about is that I haven’t been in there (for a long time).”
Dirrell, whose only defeat came on a 12-round split decision to World Boxing Council (WBC) 168-pound champion Carl Froch in Group Stage 1 of the Super Six tournament on Oct. 17, 2009, expects to have some jitters for Cunningham.
“They’re nothing I can’t handle. I’m just more anxious than anything,” Dirrell said.
With a possible world title shot in the future, Dirrell wanted to face a solid foe. He gets that in Cunningham, a tough, veteran lefty who possesses a lot of hand speed and decent power. Cunningham was scheduled to face Kelly Pavlik earlier this year, but Pavlik withdrew.
In his most recent outing, the confident Cunningham, 37, took a unanimous decision over Dante Craig last Oct. 6 in Detroit. Cunningham also has notable victories over the likes of Antwun Echols, Rubin Williams and Pat Coleman. All but two of Cunningham’s fights have taken place in Michigan.
“I’m always coming to win,” said Cunningham, a personal trainer who says he does 800-900 sit-ups a day. “This is my opportunity to shine. I’m not going to lie down. People don’t know me now. They don’t know my heart, what’s inside me. But the whole world is going to know me after this fight.’’
In the telecast’s opener, Garcia, a six-footer who turns 24 on Dec. 23, and the 5-foot-11 1/2 Johnson, who turns 30 on Dec. 22, will be making their ShoBox debuts.
In his most recent outing and lone fight in 2011, Garcia scored a second-round TKO over former world champion Byron Mitchell on Nov. 6. Mitchell, cut near his left eye, was counted out at 0:51 in the second.
Until this year when he was a victim of several fights falling out, Garcia had maintained a busy schedule. He fought five times in 2010 and four times in 2009.
Garcia was a stellar amateur and a world junior champion. He thought he’d earned a trip to the 2008 Olympic Games but his spot on the team went to a boxer he’d beaten, Emilio Correa, who went on to win a silver medal.
Disillusioned with what he claimed were the politics of amateur boxing, Garcia defected to Cork shortly thereafter and turned pro in September 2008. He’s trained by Glenn McCrory in Newcastle, England.
Johnson will be making his fourth start this year. He is coming off a fourth-round TKO over Keon Johnson (no relation) last July 16 in Washington, D.C.
A pro since March 2007, Alexander Johnson won his start before last on an impressive 10-round majority decision over fellow unbeaten and highly touted prospect, Farah Ennis, on April 2 in Atlantic City. Performing with calm intensity and passion, Johnson was victorious in his most noteworthy triumph by the upset scores of 98-93, 97-93 and 95-95.
For information on SHOWTIME Sports, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, complete telecast information and more, please visit the website at http://sports.SHO.com.
Kennedy-Martin Battle In Las Vegas On Jan. 13th
Teon Kennedy of Philadelphia will take on Chris ‘The San Diego Kid’ Martin in a battle of Top 10 ranked contenders at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino on Friday, January 13. The ESPN/Top Rank Friday Night boxing card will also include unbeaten, hard-hitting Jesse Magdaleno of Las Vegas and undefeated Gabino Saenz of Indio, California. Magdaleno, trained by Pat Barry and Augie Sanchez, will be in a six round bout. Saenz will take on Gil Garcia of Houston in a six round match. Tickets at $75, $50 and $25 will go on sale Wednesday, December 14, 5 pm. Tickets are will be available at the Hard Rock Box Office, 4455 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, all Ticketmaster locations, online at Ticketmaster.com or charge-by-phone at 800-745-3000.
Kennedy, promoted by Peltz Boxing, and Martin compete in the super bantamweight division. Kennedy has a record of 17-1-1, 7 KOs. Martin is 23-1-2 with 6 KOs. The main event is scheduled for 10 rounds. Kennedy is ranked IBF #7, Martin is IBF #9 at 122 pounds. Other attractions on the Top Rank card include hard-punching super lightweight Yordenis Ugas, 10-0, of Miami, Las Vegas fan favorite Anthony Lenk, 12-1, and the return of popular Angel Flores, 10-4 of Las Vegas. First bell is at 5 pm.
Illness Forces Michael 'The Brazilian Rocky' Oliveira Off Saturday's Show In Quebec
Unbeaten middleweight prospect Michael “The Brazilian Rocky” Oliveira, rated WBC #15, has withdrawn due to illness from his scheduled fight this Saturday night (Dec. 17) against veteran Jimmy “The Fightin’ School Teacher” Holmes (19-3-2, 10 KOs) at Pepsi Coliseum in Quebec City. The 21-year-old Oliveira (16-0, 12 KOs) has been bedridden the past few days at his Miami home with a high fever, stomach virus and dehydration. “Michael still wanted to fight but he will be too weak,” Michael’s father/promoter Carlos Oliveira (MO Productions) reported. “We plan for his return to the ring in late January.”
SHOWTIME Free Preview Weekend Starts Jan. 6th
SHOWTIME will be available in 60 million households for a Free Preview Weekend from Friday, January 6 through Sunday, January 8. Viewers across the country will have the opportunity to sample the premium network’s award-winning programming on SHOWTIME, SHOWTIME HD™ and SHOWTIME On Demand®. Live on Friday, January 6 at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast), SHOWTIME will air its celebrated, prospect-oriented boxing series ShoBox: The New Generation, featuring Luis Ramos Jr. vs. Raymundo Beltran. Then, on Saturday, January 7 at 10 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast), SHOWTIME Sports will air the STRIKEFORCE Middleweight Championship featuring defending champ Luke Rockhold vs. Keith Jardine, with four additional mixed martial arts bouts, live from The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada
Matchups Of KO Artists Fill Ward-Froch Undercard
With super middleweight supremacy on the line when WBA Super Middleweight Champion Andre Ward takes on WBC titleholder Carl Froch in the SUPER SIX WORLD BOXING CLASSIC FINAL on Saturday Night, December 17 in Atlantic City’s Boardwalk Hall, matchmaker Tom Brown of Goossen Tutor Promotions has put together an explosive undercard featuring several members of their talented stable against boxers with impressive records and high knockout ratios.
The night starts with the big boys of boxing, the heavyweights.
Bowie Tupou (21-1, 16 KOs) of Los Angeles, takes on Donnell “The Real Touch of Sleep” Holmes, who hails from Ivanhoe, NC, in a scheduled ten-rounder of hard-hitting heavyweights with only one loss each and 45 knockouts on their records.
In his most recent outing back in May, Tupou known as “Bo” scored a devastating knockout win over top ten-ranked contender, Manny Quezada. Holmes (33-1-2, 29 KOs) is coming off consecutive second-round stoppages following his only loss – a controversial technical decision to Brian Minto in a WBO-NABO Heavyweight title bout.
Light heavyweights take center stage with Edison Miranda (34-6, 29 KOs) and Cornelius White (17-1-1, 15 KOs) take on separate challenges.
Once-beaten White, a Houston, TX native is in his toughest test to date since his only loss when he goes against Cuban sensation Yordanis Despaigne (9-1, 4 KOs), of Coral Gables, FL.
White, dubbed “Da Beast,” rebounded from his only setback in a nationally televised loss by earning a split-decision victory over tough veteran Dhafir Smith back in July in the same Atlantic City venue in which he will meet Despaigne. Born in Cuba, Despaigne had a distinguished amateur career which included wins in international competition over current top pros Andre Dirrell and Jean Pascal. Despaigne won by a controversial disqualification over Edison Miranda in his last outing back in July.
Miranda, the Colombia native known as “Pantera” and a former middleweight and super middleweight world title challenger, will attempt to attract the ratings organizations as he makes his third straight outing as a light heavyweight in a scheduled 8-rounder against Kariz Kariuki of Tampa, FL.
The Kenyan native, Kariuki (24-9-2, 19 KOs) is on a 3-fight win streak, having most recently scored an impressive first round knockout in May of this year.
Light middleweight Boyd Melson (6-0, 3 KOs) will look to continue making a name for himself in a scheduled 6-round outing against Daniel Lugo (9-1, 4 KOs). Currently a Captain in the Army Reserve, the “Rainmaker” Melson uses boxing for much more than himself, donating his earnings to teamfighttowalk.com and justadollarplease.org.
Hometown heavyweights John Lennox (7-1, 3 KOs) and Jeremiah Witherspoon (2-1, 1 KO) will showcase their boxing prowess in a scheduled four-round attraction.
In a special welterweight attraction Great Britan’s rising star Kell “Special K” Brook (25-0, 17 KOs) takes on Tennessee native, Luis Galarza (18-2, 14 KOs) in a 10-round bout promoted by Matchroom Sport.
Kell holds the WBO and WBA Intercontinental welterweight titles and is coming off a 6-round TKO victory over Rafal Jackiewicz this past October.
Tickets for SUPER SIX WORLD BOXING CLASSIC FINAL and live undercard are priced at $300, $200, $100 and $50 and can be purchased at the Boardwalk Hall Box Office, or by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 736-1420 or online at ticketmaster.com.
Promoted by Goossen Tutor Promotions, Matchroom Sport and Antonio Leonard Promotions, in association with Caesars Atlantic City and sponsored by Corona.
Morales To Defend Against Garcia Jan. 28, Kirkland-Molina In Co-Feature
Erik Morales will defend his junior welterweight title against Danny Garcia live on HBO January 28 at the Reliant Arena in Houston, TX. The card, which will be promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, will also feature James Kirkland facing Carlos Molina in the opening bout of the telecast.
Ortiz-Berto Rematch Headed To Vegas Feb. 11
The rematch between Victor Ortiz and Andre Berto will take place February 11 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, NV. Showtime, who outbid HBO, will televise the bout.
Top Rank Working On Chavez Jr., Donaire Doubleheader
Top Rank is currently working on an attractive doubleheader card that would feature Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and Nonito Donaire in separate bouts. The card would take place in early February at the Alamodome in San Antonio, TX, where Chavez Jr. has a loyal fan base.
Garcia To Train Pavlik
Robert Garcia will be the new trainer for Kelly Pavlik, as the former world champion prepares for his comeback. Pavlik is scheduled to head to Garcia's gym in Oxnard, CA this month to begin working with Garcia and get used to his new surroundings. Look for Pavlik to return to the ring sometime in 2012.
Team Khan/GBP Official Statment, Rematch Could Take Place In March
Firstly, we would like to congratulate Lamont Peterson on his performance against Amir Khan. Not only has he shown that he is a tremendous fighter inside the ring, but also a great man out of the ring.
Following the decision in the fight, Team Khan and Golden Boy Promotions intends to make inquiries with the District of Columbia Boxing and Wrestling Commission, the IBF and the WBA regarding the performance of referee Joseph Cooper and will also be seeking clarification regarding certain ambiguities with respect to the scores of the fight.
We look forward to an immediate rematch with Lamont as confirmed by Lamont and his manager/trainer Barry Hunter. In a war, WBO flyweight champion Brian “Hawaiian Punch” Viloria (30-3, 17 KOs) scored an exciting eighth round TKO over former unified light flyweight champion Giovanni Segura (28-2-1, 24 KOs) on Sunday (Saturday night in the U.S.) at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City, Philippines. Great two-way action from the get-go, with Viloria getting the better of the former 108lb star. The right side of Segura’s head was grotesquely swollen after three rounds. Viloria seemed to be fading in the middle rounds as Segura came on. Viloria staggered Segura in the eighth and bout was stopped by the referee. Time was :29. In an important IBF super featherweight elimination bout, IBF #5 Martin Honorio (33-6-1, 16 KOs) scored a twelve round split decision over IBF #4 Fahsai Sakkreerin (36-4, 20 KOs). Sakkreerin was the aggressor in the bout but Honorio came on late. Scores were 116-112, 116-112 for Honorio and 115-113 for Sakkreerin. Flyweight Ardin Diale (17-6-3, 4 KOs) surprised previously unbeaten Lolito Sonsona (15-1-1, 5 KOs) winning a clear ten round unanimous decision. Diale never let Sonsona in the fight winning 98-92 on all cards. Unbeaten lightweight Al Sabaupan (18-0-1, 13 KOs) scored a TKO when Jonel Gadapan (7-3, 5 KOs) didn’t come out for round five. Sabaupan’s body shots made the difference.
Shan Khan would tell the BBC Sport, "We want a rematch, maybe in Vegas, on March 31st.
Peterson Dethrones Khan , Results From Washington D.C.
Lamont Peterson (30-1-1 15KOs) scored a twelve round split decision over Amir Khan (26-2 18KOs) to claim the WBA and IBF junior welterweight titles Saturday night in Washington D.C. Peterson overcame a knockdown in the opening round to come back and give Khan all he could handle. Peterson constantly worked the body and landed numerous power shots, but Khan countered with speedy flurries, which hindered Peterson's momentum at times. A turning point in the bout came in rounds seven and twelve, as Khan was deducted 1 point in each round for pushing. But in the end, Peterson's heart and determination was just too much for Khan, as two of the three judges favored Peterson. After a long delay in calculating the scores, the cards read: 113-112 (Peterson), 114-111 (Khan), 113-112 (Peterson).
Heavyweight Seth Mitchell (24-0-1 18KOs) stopped Timur Ibragimov (30-4-1 16KOs) via second round TKO. Time was 2:48.
Anthony Peterson (31-1 20KOs) outworked Daniel Attah (26-9-1 9KOs) on his way to an eight round unanimous decision.
Super middleweight Fernando Guerrero (22-1 17KOs) haulted Robert Kliewer (11-14-2 5KOs) inside of five rounds. Time was 0:45.
Jamie Kavanagh DRAW(6) Ramesis Gil
Terron Grant KO(1) Dashawn Autry
Joshua Davis UD(4) Christopher Russell
Dusty Harrison TKO(1) Terrell Davis
Viloria TKOs Segura, Results From Pasig City
Roy Jones Jr. Claims Intercontinental Belt, Results From Atlanta
In a cruiserweight clash, four division world champion Roy Jones Jr. (55-8, 40 KOs) outclassed former “Contender” participant Max Alexander (14-6-2, 2 KOs) over ten rounds on Saturday night at the Civic Center in Atlanta, Georgia. The 42-year-old Jones rebounded from three straight losses, taking a ten round unanimous decision by scores of 100-90, 99-91, 100-90. Alexander’s last win was in 2007. Jones claimed the UBO Intercontinental belt with the win
Ryan Coyne (19-0 8KOs) remained unbeaten with a second round TKO over Dante Craig (18-12-1 13KOs)
Chris Howard SD(8) Stephan Alexander
Brian Howard TKO(1) Sharif Kemp
Michael Wessel UD(6) Gabe Brown
Tristan Todd UD(4) Beden Laurent
Theophane Stops Murphy
Ashley Theophane (31-4-1 9KOs) scored an eleventh round TKO over Ben Murphy (8-5-1 4KOs) Saturday night at Peterlee Leisure Centre in Peterlee, Tyne and Wear, United Kingdom. Time was 2:33.
Donaire Derails Sanchez's Comeback
Flyweight Glen Donaire (18-4-1, 10 KOs) derailed the comeback of former WBO minimumweight champion Alex “El Nene” Sánchez (31-8-1, 21 KOs) Vs on Friday night at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida. Returning after a four year layoff, the 38-year-old Sanchez was knocked down twice in round two by Donaire, the brother of world champion Nonito Donaire. After taking more punishment from Donaire in the following rounds, Sanchez didn’t come out for round nine. It seemed Sanchez suffered an injury to his left wrist.
Unbeaten super featherweight Luis Franco (12-0, 8 KOs) stopped Leopoldo Gonzalez (11-5-1, 7 KOs) with a brutal assault in round two.
Photos: Khan-Peterson Weights
Amir Khan 139lbs vs. Lamont Peterson 140lbs
Seth Mitchell 240 1/2lbs vs. Timor Ibragimov 22lbs
Anthony Peterson 137lbs vs. Daniel Attah 136lbs
Fernando Guerrero 162lbs vs. Robert Kliewer 161lbs
Jamie Kavanaugh 135lbs vs. Ramsies Gil 135lbs
Thomas Williams, Jr. 174lbs vs. Reynaldo Rodriguez 171lbs
Dusty Harrison 144lbs vs. Terrell Davis 146lbs
Terron Grant 134lbs vs. Deshawn Autry 134lbs
Joshua Davis 134lbs vs. Chris Russell 134lbs
Golovkin Calls Out Sturm
WBA middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin won impressively by first round KO against Lajuan Simon to defend his title for the third time and also captured the vacant IBO belt in the process Friday night in in Düsseldorf, Germany. “It was a short but interesting fight. I am so happy that I won and want to thank my entire team. I want to fight Felix Sturm now and I know it will be the same result. I have shown the boxing fans that I am the true middleweight champion of the world,” said Golovkin.
“I couldn’t see the shot and I got caught with a big punch. I am feeling OK now,” Lajuan stated after the fight and his first career knockout loss.
Tom Loeffler, Managing Director of K2 Promotions added, “We are very happy to have a new double world champion signed with K2. Against Simon he has shown why he is now called ‘Sturm Killer’. It was a devastating knockout and it showed why Gennady is the most dangerous middleweight in the world.”
Golovkin Annihilates Simon
WBA middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin (22-0, 19 KOs) scored a devastating first round annihilation of Lajuan Simon (22-4-2, 12 KOs) on Friday night at the Ballsaal Interconti-Hotel in Düsseldorf, Germany. Golovkin laid out Simon for the count at 2:17 with a devastating left hook. It was the first time Simon has ever been stopped. It was Golovkin’s third defense of the WBA “regular” belt, all by KO.
Roy Jones Jr.-Max Alexander Weights
Former four-division world champion Roy Jones Jr and Max Alexander both weighed in at 193 lbs for Saturday night’s fight at the Civic Center in Atlanta.
Other weights:
Chris Howard 134 vs. Stephan Alexander 133.5
Ryan Coyne 177 vs. Dante Craig 175
Showtime Crew Analyze Froch vs. Ward Fight
Through the last two years, no four men have been closer to the action in the Super Six World Boxing Classic than SHOWTIME announcers Gus Johnson, Al Bernstein, Antonio Tarver and Jim Gray. Appropriately, the entire team will again sit ringside on Saturday, Dec. 17 as Andre Ward and Carl Froch battle for super middleweight supremacy in The Final LIVE on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.
Each member of the Super Six broadcast team offered their commentary on the historic bout.
Gus Johnson, Play-by-Play Announcer
“We’re witnessing two fighters who haven’t reached their peak yet. This fight is going to go a long way in determining what path they take. The winner has the opportunity to launch into super stardom at 168. The winner will have the chance to potentially become a household name moving forward.
“These two men are meeting each other at the right time. They’re young. They’re strong. They’re hungry, humble and – maybe most importantly – they really want to test themselves. It’s tailor made. Ward-Froch will be cataclysmic.”
Al Bernstein, Expert Analyst
“Andre Ward is the consummate boxer-puncher. We thought Mikkel Kessler was the most skilled fighter in the tournament and Andre dominated him. In this match, Ward must bring the kind of ring generalship that allowed Andre Dirrell to do well against Froch – even in losing. The Ward jab needs to be established early and he must punch in combination, while mixing in just enough lateral movement.
“Carl Froch is a much more nuanced fighter than we expected to see in this tournament. He is a better pure boxer than he’s given credit for being. He showed that in wins over Arthur Abraham and Glen Johnson. He also has an iron chin. Ward will not attack him like Johnson and Abraham so Froch will need to push the pace more. He, too, must establish the jab early and then land his right hand behind it. He has not used his excellent uppercut as much in the Super Six; this would be a good time to bring it out of mothballs.”
Antonio Tarver, Expert Analyst
“The key for Andre Ward is to stay within himself, keep boxing and keep winning the rounds. I think there is a lot of pressure on him to do something exciting, to do something great, but he can’t play into that hype. He must stay disciplined. I think that’s the key word when I look at what he needs for this battle: discipline.
“For Froch, he’s going to have to cut the ring off. He’s going to have to limit Andre Ward’s movement. Carl is going to have to press him and I think he’s going to have to be the aggressor. He needs to make it a fight instead of a boxing match. Froch will have to corner Ward and make him fight with his back against the ropes. And if he can do that and sustain that kind of attack, press him mentally and physically, Froch will give Ward the hardest fight he’s ever had. If anybody gets knocked out in this fight, I see Froch catching Ward.
“I really feel like the winner of this fight will write his own ticket as to what he’d like to do in the near future so there is a lot at stake. I’m looking forward to it. We could be looking at the Fighter of the Year. When you look at what they’ve gone through, you’ve got to put Ward or Froch in the category for Fighter of the Year if one man can win convincingly.”
Jim Gray, Ringside Reporter
“The key for Ward will be to be patient. He needs to fight at his pace and not be lured in by Froch to brawl. He must also know that Froch has a great chin, and not be frustrated that Froch may not budge with his best shots.
“The key for Froch would be to somehow be able to get Ward to brawl. To get him into wild exchanges and catch him. Froch is tough and he has the ability to take fighters out of their plan and create opportunities.”
___________________
The event is promoted by Goossen Tutor Promotions, Matchroom Sport and Antonio Leonard Promotions, in association with Caesars Atlantic City and sponsored by Corona.
Tickets are on sale at the Boardwalk Hall box office or by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 736-1420 or online at ticketmaster.com. All tickets purchased for the original event date will be honored on Dec. 17. If ticket holders are not able to attend on Dec. 17, refunds are available at the point of purchase. The non-televised undercard begins at 6 p.m. ET. "Island Assault 3," presented by Zanfer Promotions and Saved by the Bell Promotions, is being distributed in the United States by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9:00 PM/ET - 11:00 PM/PT on satellite pay-per-view via DISH Network , for a suggested retail price of only $29.95. It's also available online at www.ustream.tv/integratedsportsppv. For more information about the "Island Assault 3" PPV event go to www.integratedsportsnet.com. Follow Integrated Sports Media on Twitter @IntegratedPPV. Three-time and reigning WBO world flyweight champion Brian “Hawaiian Punch” Viloria (29-3, 16 KOs), a dual citizen of the U.S. and Philippines and a 2000 U.S. Olympian, is ready to take on Mexican challenger Giovani “El Guerrero Azteca” Segura, on Saturday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City, Metro Manila, Philippines. “I’ve sparred with Segura in the past and we beat the hell out of each other,” Viloria said. “It was the kind of sparring where we could have charged the audience for an entrance fee and they wouldn’t have complained. Knockout specialist Segura (28-1-1, 24 KOs), a two-time world light flyweight champion (World Boxing Association Super champion), knocked out previously undefeated WBO champion Ivan Calderon (34-0-1) in a unification fight in 2010 and again this past April in a rematch before moving up in weight. Integrated Sports Media, the pound-for-pound king of sports distribution in North America, will distribute the Saturday night “Island Assault 3″ for live viewing at 9:00 PM/ET, 6PM PT. The event is available on satellite pay-per-view via DISH Network, and on-line pay-per-view at http://www.ustream.tv/integratedsportsppv “We’re looking forward to bringing this action-packed card, headlined by two of the best lighter weight fighters in the world, Viloria and Segura, to US boxing fans,” Integrated Sports Media president Doug Jacobs said. “This exciting show continues the heated Filipino vs. Mexican boxing rivalry that is one of the most intense in the sport today.” Hard punching jr lightweight prospect Dante “Crazy” Jardon will be back in action this Saturday in an action pack card to be held at Centro Expositor in Puebla, Mexico. Jardon (19-1, 17 KOs), one of the best prospects in Mexican boxing, will defend against dangerous Japanese challenger Kyohei Tamakoshi (27-7-6 10 KOs) in an international match scheduled for 10 rounds with Jardon’s WBC Youth Jr. Lightweight title at stake. Also in action local hero, WBC Silver Minimweight Champion Sammy Gutierrez (30-6-2, 21 KOs) of Puebla will defend against former world title challenger Armando Torres (16-9, 11 KOs) of Mexico City in a bout schedule for 12 rounds. First bell at 8:15 PM, 5 mores fights round off the card. Televisa Network will broadcast the fights in Mexico. Tickets are already on sale at ticketmaster.com.mx between $400 and $100. The show is being presented by Ricardo Maldonado, Producciones Deportivas, RB Producciones and Tuto Zabala’s Jr. All Star Boxing, Inc.
Video: Fight Camp 360: Insdie The Super Six-Full Episode 11-SHOWTIME Boxing
Island Assault 3 PPV Available Online at Ustream.tv
Saturday night's "Island Assault 3" PPV event features the World Boxing Organization ("WBO") Flyweight Championship between defending champion Brian "Hawaiian Punch" Viloria and challenger Giovani "El Guerrero Azteca" Segura.
Viloria: I've Sparred With Segura In The Past And We Beat The Hell Out Of Each Other
Dante "Crazy" Jardon Back In Action
Murray Wants Sturm Rematch
MARTIN MURRAY has urged World Boxing Association (WBA) super world middleweight champion Felix Sturm to give him an immediate return.
The unbeaten St Helens man held the brilliant German to a draw in Mannheim last Friday, although most people believed Murray deserved the decision.
Honourable Sturm did offer Matthew Macklin a second chance when he narrowly defeated him, but Matthew snubbed that opportunity.
Murray, 29, is so desperate for another shot at Sturm he would even make another trip to Germany.
Martin said: “Sturm has proved himself to be a great champion, and a man everybody in boxing respects.
“After his controversial win over Macklin in the summer he offered a rematch, but was turned down.
“I like to think that Sturm will do the same to me. Unlike Macklin, I will accept and go to Germany once again.
“Although I believe the decision was wrong, myself and my team were treated with respect all week by Sturm, his team, German media and fans.”
Murray’s promoter Ricky Hatton is a big fan of Sturm who has now defended his crown 11 times during his second reign.
Hatton hopes to discuss a rematch with Sturm and is even considering asking the WBA to sanction another meeting after their first thriller.
The former two weight world champ added: “I have the upmost respect for Felix Sturm and, myself and Martin were grateful to be given a world title shot.
“But, I feel Felix will lose the respect of the boxing world if he doesn't give Martin a rematch."
Roy Jones & Max Alexander Makes Charity Bet
When Roy Jones Jr. and Max Alexander clash for the vacant Universal Boxing Organization™ Inter-Continental Cruiserweight title this Saturday at the Atlanta Civic Center, a lot more, and something more important, than a victory and the title will be at stake.
Jones (54-8, 40 KOs) has challenged Alexander (14-5-2, 2 KOs) to a friendly bet where the loser will donate 1000 meals to charity, and Alexander has accepted.
“Roy, where I come from it is not called a friendly bet”, said Alexander. “I don’t care if it’s doing back flips in the yard or wrestling roosters, I am all for it. So guess what, I accept the challenge. And you will be donating, so get your money right”.
Max Alexander is extremely confident ahead of his fight with the legendary former world champion, and has even told the promoters that he doesn’t need to get paid if he doesn’t win inside six rounds. Jones has also wowed to knock out Alexander, so it looks like both of them are aiming at getting the 1000 meals out to the needy as quick as possible.
The Jones Jr. vs. Alexander UBO Inter-Continental Cruiserweight title fight on Saturday December 10 at the Atlanta Civic Center is promoted by Square Ring Promotions, KO Kings and Big Play Entertainment. Billed as King Of The Ring 5 - Resurrection, the fight is available on Internet Pay-Per-View via http://www.ustream.tv/royjones
For more UBO News Go To: www.uboboxing.com
Khan-Peterson Final Presser Quotes
Amir Khan, Unified Super Lightweight Champion
"I always said when I was younger, I wanted to fight in different states and different areas of the world because I want to be the best and prove that I'm the best.
"We know how good Lamont is. He's strong. He's only lost one fight in his whole career. It's going to be a tough night and you have a lot of support here, but I think we will have a lot more support [than people think].
"It's been a long time since you had a big fight in DC, and we want to bring big fights back here again."
Lamont Peterson, #1 Rated IBF Super Lightweight Contender
"I've been talking for two months now. I'm tired of talking. I'm ready to fight.
"I don't like to be amped or crazy going into the ring because I'm a thinker. I just think about the game plan, go over that a few times and before I know it, they're raising my hand at the end of the fight. I just keep going over that over and over again until it's time to go.
"Khan has got his army here, so we really need DC to come out and represent!"
Seth Mitchell, Undefeated Heavyweight Contender
"I'm excited about the fight and I'm anxious. I'm tired of training.
"I'm not underestimating Timur at all.
"I'm confident. I know this is a big step for me. You don't get a record like Timur's without knowing how to fight and maneuver in the ring.
"I respect my opponent a lot, but come December 10, I'm pretty sure he won't respect me and I won't respect him either.
"I feel that it's my time."
Timur Ibragimov, Heavyweight Contender
"I fought so many times in Moscow, Germany, but never in the capital of America. It's a big honor."
Anthony Peterson, Lightweight Contender & Lamont's Brother
"It's been 15 months since my last fight. The Only thing I can say is keep your eyes open and don't blink, because I got a lot of stuff to get off my chest on Saturday.
"I'm frustrated that it's been so long since I fought, but it's been a learning experience.
"I've got to prove a point to myself and to everybody else. I believe the Peterson brothers are the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world and I'll believe it till I die, but we have to prove it to everyone else.
"We had to endure a lot more than the average kids, but we made up for that with Barry. He showed us how to live outside of boxing. He is my father."
Freddie Roach, Boxing Hall of Famer and Amir's trainer
"I fought here on March 1 in 1986. Darryl Tyson kicked my butt, but we're gonna change that in the upcoming fight.
"Amir Khan is really ready. We had a great training camp and we'll see you all there Saturday night."
Barry Hunter, Team Peterson Manager and Trainer
"It's not often that you have someone like Amir take a fight in the other person's hometown when you can have a fight anywhere else in the planet, but he chose DC, so he deserves all the thanks and praise in the world."
Andre Hunter, Seth Mitchell's Trainer
"Seth has prepared very well and we know Timur is coming to fight. Seth is ready to go."
Oscar de la Hoya, President of Golden Boy Promotions
"Saturday night, we will see the future of the heavyweight division in Seth Mitchell.
"When Amir Khan won the Silver Medal in 2004, he already looked like a seasoned veteran. He had tremendous speed, power and foot work."
Bernard Hopkins, Light Heavyweight World Champion and Golden Boy Promotions Partner
"DC is one of those towns that boxing needs to be back in. Everybody on this stage has the opportunity to prove why DC is now the place for boxing and that it is a fight town.
"Amir and Lamont, this is your time to shine. This is your opportunity to build your own legacy and your own careers starting Saturday."
Greg O'Dell, President and CEO of Events DC
"We couldn't be more thrilled to be a part of this fight.
"We want to make this fit for a 'King,' Amir Khan, but we also want to see some 'Havoc' from Lamont Peterson as well and we want to see our good friend Seth Mitchell cause a little 'Mayhem' when he's fighting."
# # #
"Capital Showdown: Khan vs. Peterson," a 12-round Unified Super Lightweight World Title Fight for Khan's WBA World Super Championship and IBF World Championship taking place on Saturday, Dec. 10 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Khan Promotions and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate, DeWalt Tools, AT&T and MicroTech. Also featured will be a 10-round heavyweight battle between Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell and Timur Ibragimov. The fights will be telecast in the United States on HBO World Championship Boxing at 9:45 p.m. ET/6:45 p.m. PT and on Sky Sports in the United Kingdom. The Walter E. Washington Convention Center doors will open on fight night at 6:00 p.m. and the first fight will begin at 6:30 p.m.
Tickets, priced at $300, $150, $75, $50 and $25, are available for purchase through Ticketmaster by calling (800) 745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com. The Walter E. Washington Convention Center Box Office will be open Thursday, December 8 and Friday, December 9 from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. and on Saturday, December 10 from 12:00 p.m. until approximately 11:00 p.m.
Photos: Khan-Peterson Final Presser
Washington, DC - Birthday boy and unified light welterweight champion of the world Amir Khan, face off with mandatory challenger Lamont Peterson at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Khan defends his WBA/IBF titles against Peterson this Saturday night in an HBO/Sky Sports televised main event. Khan turned 25-years-old on Thursday. Heavyweight Seth Mitchell appears in the co-feature against veteran Timur Ibragimov.
Rubio Takes On Vanda December 16th For The Vacant WBC Latino Middleweight Title
On December 16, and to coincide with the WBC Convention, Sampson Boxing in Association with Promociones del Pueblo will proudly present a night of world-class professional boxing featuring five regional title fights at the fabulous Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. In the night’s potentially explosive 12-round middleweight main event, WBC #1 and WBO #3-rated Marco Antonio Rubio (52-5-1, 45 KOs) of Coahuila de Zaragoza, Mexico, will risk his lofty rankings against Saint Paul, Minnesota’s always tough Matt “The Predator” Vanda (44-13, 24 KOs). The two veterans will be vying for the vacant WBC Latino middleweight title.
In the 10-round co-featured bout, hot featherweight prospect Javier Fortuna (17-0, 13 KOs) from La Romana, Dominican Republic, will make the second defense of his WBC Youth Intercontinental featherweight title against Miguel Roman (37-8, 28 KOs) from Juarez, Mexico.
On the fiercely competitive undercard, Panama City, Panama’s Azael “Turbo” Cosio (12-1-2, 9 KOs) will go against Oklahoma City’s Ronnie “The Natural” Warrior Jr (13-5-1, 4 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight scrap for the WBC Latino welterweight title.
Somebody’s “O” must go in a couple of other clashes.
Undefeated Samuel Rogers (10-0, 5 KOs) from the US Virgin Islands will face also undefeated Jamar Freeman (9-0-2, 5 KOs) from Wilson, North Carolina, in a 10-round fight for the vacant WBC FECARBOX light middleweight title; and undefeated knockout artist John Jackson (11-0, 10 KOs) from St. Thomas, Virgin Islands will take on undefeated Keandre Leatherwood (9-0, 6 KOs) from Birmingham, Alabama, in a 10-round fight for the vacant WBC Youth World light middleweight title.
Rounding out the action will be a special six-round female super featherweight attraction between Las Vegas-based southpaw Laura “La Poeta del Ring” Serrano (17-4-2, 6 KOs) and Jamestown, New York’s Ela “Bam Bam” Nunez (10-11-1, 2 KOs).
This event is sponsored by Corona.
Tickets go on sale Monday (December 12) and are priced at $100 ringside and $25 General Admission. They will be available at the Mandalay Bay box office and online at www.mandalaybay.com.
Eddie Chambers vs. Sergei "White Wolf" Liakhovich On January 21st
Philadelphia heavyweight contender "Fast" Eddie Chambers takes on former World Heavyweight Champion Sergei "White Wolf" Liakhovich on Saturday, January 21st when the NBC Sports Network (currently named VERSUS) brings its inaugural NBC Sports Network Fight Night broadcast to the City of Brotherly Love.
Making his first hometown appearance since 2008, Chambers, (36-2, 18 KO's), who learned to fight in Philly's legendary gyms, will have his hands full when he faces "The White Wolf" of Scottsdale, AZ (25-4, 16 KO's) at Philadelphia's Asylum Arena. A former Russian Olympian, Liakhovich is an aggressive, heavy-handed competitor who rarely takes a step backwards and always makes great fights. His epic 2006 brawl with Lamon Brewster, when the native of Vitebsk, Belarus won the WBO Heavyweight Championship, is still characterized by many boxing pundits as the best heavyweight fight of the past ten years.
Opening the television broadcast at 9 p.m. will be a blistering junior middleweight battle between "King" Gabriel Rosado of Philadelphia (18-5, 10 KO's) and Jesus Soto-Karass of Tijuana, Mexico (24-6, 16 KO's). "Soto-Karass made his reputation in two wars with Mike Jones," NBCSN Fight Night's Hall of Fame matchmaker Russell Peltz said, referring to a recent pair of thrilling bouts involving Soto-Karass and Jones, the world's number one welterweight contender. "Rosado vs. Soto-Karass is a huge fight in Philly," he commented. "It's the kind of bout where records don't matter. It's all about the fight in the ring and there will be action from the first bell."
"Our ambition with this series is to make interesting, competitive fights that are relevant to the markets where they take place," said promoter Kathy Duva of Main Events. "In short, fights that people would pay to see. I think that this card delivers on all of those counts and I can't wait to experience the atmosphere at the Asylum when the fighters touch gloves."
Promoted by Main Events, Peltz Productions and Goossen Tutor, the non-televised undercard fights will begin at 7 p.m. The remainder of the card will be announced in the coming weeks.
Tickets priced at $45 and $65 can be reserved by calling Peltz Boxing, (215) 765-0922.
Pier-Olivier Cote Set To Make SHOWTIME Return On February 3rd In Quebec
Montreal, Thursday December 8th 2011 – InterBox is proud to announce that undefeated IBF Intercontinental Light Welterweight champion Pier-Olivier Cote (18-0-0, 12 KO) will put his belt and perfect record on the line against IBF #6 World rated contender Mauricio Herrera (18-1-0, 7 KO’s) on Friday, February 3rd 2012 on the popular SHOWTIME series, ShoBox: The New Generation. This Gala will be promoted by InterBox in association with Top Rank and Thompson Boxing Promotions at the newly renovated Pavillon de la Jeunesse Arena in beautiful Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.
The ShoBox: The New Generation telecast will air live on SHOWTIME® at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast). The SHOWTIME televised co-feature bout(s) will be announced in the coming weeks.
The Main Supporting Bout from Pavillon de la Jeunesse Arena will feature undefeated welterweight blue chip prospect Mikael Zewski (12-0-0, 8 KO’s) from Trois Rivieres, Quebec. Zewski is promoted by Top Rank and managed by Cameron Dunkin, both of whom are already studying offers for opponents.
Cote, from Quebec, made quite an impression across the World last November 5th at the Pepsi Colisee in Quebec City where he fought in the main supporting bout on the Lucian Bute vs. Glen Johnson undercard. With SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING cameras rolling, Cote annihilated Jorge Luis Teron (25-3-1, 17 KO) in under 2 rounds, scoring a spectacular knockout in front of 16,000 delirious fans chanting his nickname “Apou, Apou” at the top of their lungs. Teron, a bloody mess, was barely able to get up after the KO. The performance helped Cote earn another opportunity on SHOWTIME, but this time in the Main Event.
“Teron was supposed to be Cote’s big test last November 5th. We chose him to get a better idea of where Cote stands in terms of progression. Let’s just say Cote passed with flying colors” states InterBox President Mr. Jean Bedard. “We were presented with 4 or 5 names from Gordon Hall that met the ShoBox standard and we pretty much picked the first one” continued Jean Bedard. “From what I am told Mauricio Herrera is a very well rounded boxer and will test Cote over the course of the bout. He’s ranked #6 in the World by the IBF so this is another big step up for Cote. We are looking forward to returning to Quebec City, where we are always so warmly received by the City, the people and the fans. We are also excited and proud that Showtime accepted our invitation to follow Apou” concludes Jean Bedard.
Fresh off his November 5th fight, Pier-Olivier Cote is already looking forward to training for the February 3rd fight. “This is fantastic news. I always keep myself in great shape so 8 weeks is a perfect camp. My coaches and I are already studying Herrera. My promoter InterBox wants me to fight more often and SHOWTIME is giving me another great opportunity. What more can an athlete ask for? This is a great early Christmas gift for me. No parties for me until after February 3rd. I will be celebrating the Holidays in the gym. I want to return better and stronger than ever before”.
Cote’s head trainer Francois Duguay is equally excited with the news. “Not only do we get to fight on SHOWTIME again, but this time as the Main Event on ShoBox. It doesn’t get any better than this. I am looking forward to making sure Cote is in tip top shape for February 3rd as Mauricio Herrera is a very dangerous boxer with good speed and above average skill”.
MAURICIO HERRERA:
“I am thrilled to be back in a big fight and as the main event of ShoBox. I had a great 2011 beating tough challengers like Ruslan Provodnikov and Mike Dallas, more importantly I have shown that I can adjust to any style and make it hard for anybody inside the ring. My main goal in this fight against Cote is not only to make it rough, but also make him realize this is a real fight. I am not Jorge Luis Teron (Cote’s last opponent) or Aris Ambriz; I am the fighter that will give him the first loss of his career.”
ALEX CAMPONOVO, Matchmaker/General Manager for Thompson Boxing Promotions:
“This is the right fight for both guys. Cote is a terrific prospect and Herrera has matured and assimilated the role of a seasoned boxer. Their only difference lays in their experience inside the ring and that is where Mauricio has the upper hand. We are thrilled that a national audience and Quebec City will get to see a great match. They won't be disappointed.”
Premiering on July 21, 2001, the ShoBox series has showcased a staggering number of eventual world champions and world title challengers. Approximately 90 plus fighters who appeared on ShoBox went on to fight for a world title, including Leonard Doroftei (Dorin), an InterBox promoted fighter, who fought in the series debut. Over 40 of them actually won a belt, including Dorin.
InterBox will unveil Zewski’s opponent as well as the undercard participants in the coming weeks. InterBox plans to offer its fans a Pro/Am card, with Amateur fights followed by two off-TV fights and finally, two or three SHOWTIME bouts. Tickets are anticipated to go on sale as of December 19th.
Big Six Entertainment Set For Their Debut Boxing Promotion!
WEST WARWICK, RI – 2004 United States Olympian Jason “Big Six” Estrada tipped the scales at 245 lbs. for his comeback fight tomorrow night at the West Warwick Civic Center against spoiler Joseph Rabotte, who checked in at 246 lbs.
The Estrada-Rabotte eight round heavyweight fight is the main event of a seven bout card. The event is the first promotion by the newly formed, Rhode Island-based promotional company, Big Six Entertainment.
Estrada, Providence, R.I. brings a professional record of 16-4, 4 KO’s into the bout against Rabotte, Atlanta, Ga., 11-18-1, 3 KO’s.
In the a six round co-feature, comebacking former USBA & NABO middleweight champion Brian Barbosa, 29-6, 21 KO's, weighed 171 lbs. for his battle with New England Light Heavyweight champion Joe Gardner, 171 lbs., 7-3-1, 1 KO.
Former New England title challenger Keith Kozlin, 175 lbs., 6-2-1, 4 KO's, looks to get back in the win column against comebacking undefeated prospect Angel Camacho, 173 lbs., 11-0, 4 KO's.
Hartford, Conn. lightweight prospect Joseph “Chip” Perez, 5-1, 2 KO’s, weighed 133 lbs. while his opponent, from Sarasota, Fl., Adrian Perez, 7-3-1, 1 KO, weighed 133 lbs.
Providence female prospect Kali Reis, 2-1-1, 1 KO, weighed 148 lbs. for her battle against Framingham’s Kate Aversa, 146 lbs., 0-1.
Dustin Reinhold, 4-1, 2 KO’s, weighed 150 ½ lbs. for his fight against undefeated prospect Chris Gilbert, Windsor, Vt., 151 lbs., 2-0, 2 KO’s.
Rounding out the card is a four round junior welterweight battle between two fighters making their professional debuts, Jair Ramos, 141 lbs., Hartford, Conn. and Robert Brando-Hunt, 142 ½ lbs., Hyannis, Mass.
The event is being present by Big Six Entertainment in association with Narragansett Beer. Tickets priced at $25, $35, $45, $55 and $75 are available by calling (401) 241-3490. Tickets will also be available at the door.
Robert Marroquin And Carlos Valcarcel Headline The Top Rank Live! Boxing Series At Win Star World Casino On Dec 17th
Thackerville, Okla – Roberto Marroquin, from Dallas, will take on Puerto Rico native, Carlos Valcarcel in the Red River Rumble main event bout on Saturday, December 17. At 22 years old and 120 pounds, Marroquin returns to WinStar after his first loss, as a three year professional boxer, to Frankie Leal in April.
“We are very excited to have another Top Rank Live boxing event at WinStar World Casino. We also welcome back local fighter Roberto Marroquin, and look forward to hosting our north Texas and southern Oklahoma boxing fans,” said Michael McEwan, WinStar assistant general manager. Marroquin is currently ranked number 8 in the United States Boxing Association (USBA).
"Robert is one of the best, most popular fighters in Texas today," said Bob Arum, the Hall of Fame CEO of Top Rank. "He has great skills and punches with power. Now he is going into a very challenging fight in the main event at WinStar World Casino."
Marroquin is a highly regarded featherweight with a record of 20 (wins) -1 (loss), 14 KO’s (knockouts). He is managed by Lou Mesorana of Texas. From Catano, Puerto Rico, Valcarcel has a record of 12-3-4 with 5 KO’s.
Two Dallas welterweights, Julio Cesar Rangel, 8-4, 5 KOs, and Hector Vazquez, 6-1, 2 KOs and undefeated Mexicali heavyweight Andy Ruiz, trained by Miguel Diaz of Las Vegas, is also scheduled on the bout card.
There will be a total of seven bouts on the fight card; the main event is scheduled for 10 rounds.
Main Event: Super Welterweight Championship
Roberto Marroquin (Dallas) versus Carlos Valcarcel (Puerto Rico)
Co-Main Event
TBA versus Terrance Crawford (Nebraska)
Other bouts:
TBA versus Jose Roman
Julio Cesar Rangel (Dallas) versus Hector Vazquez (Dallas)
Theron Johnson (Chicago) versus Andy Ruiz (Mexico)
Angel Rodriguiez (Houston) versus Jessie Roman (California)
Jerry Fuentes (Temple, Texas) versus Ivan Najera (San Antonio,Texas)
TBA versus Luis Zarazua (Edinburg, Texas)
Red River Rumble Boxing Series will take place Saturday, Dec. 17 at 7pm inside the Global Event Center. The event will be televised on FSN at 9 p.m CST. Ticket prices range from $18 to $33 per ticket. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster.com. Seating is limited and there is no age requirement to attend the show inside the Global Event Center; however, attendees must be 18 to enter the casino’s gaming area. Bouts are subject to change.
About WinStar World Casino
The world's third largest casino, WinStar World Casino offers more than 6,400 electronic games, 76 blackjack and poker tables, a 3,000-seat Global Events Center and a 395-room hotel. Located just north of the Oklahoma/Texas border along Interstate 35, WinStar World Casino presents 24/7 gaming action, world -class entertainers and a wide range of restaurants. WinStar World Casino is an economic enterprise of the Chickasaw Nation. For more information visit our website at www.winstarworldcasino.com or follow us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/WinStarWorldCasino or Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/WinStarWorld.
Video: Staredown: Ward vs. Froch Full Epsiode
An intense one-on-one with two of the world’s best super middleweight boxers: Andre Ward and Carl Froch.
Video:Andre Ward's Trainer Virgil Hunter Trash Talks With Carl Froch
An excerpt from episode 11 of FIGHT CAMP 360: Inside the Super Six World Boxing Classic. When tournament finalists Andre Ward and Carl Froch meet the press, Ward’s trainer Virgil Hunter has a few words for the competition.
Ward-Froch Media Conference Call
In anticipation of one of the most significant fights in the history of the Super Middleweight Division, Super Six World Boxing Classic Finalists Andre Ward and Carl Froch held a media conference call to discuss the Super Six World Boxing Classic Final, a World Championship Unification, live on SHOWTIME®, Saturday, Dec. 17 at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast) from the historic Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.
After a two-year, grueling journey, Ward, America’s last Olympic Gold Medalist and WBA champion, will face WBC champ and British superstar Froch in the tournament Final to determine the world’s best 168-pound fighter. The winner of the high stakes matchup will claim both world championship belts, the vacant The Ring magazine championship and the inaugural Super Six World Boxing Classic Cup.
Here’s what the fighters and promoters had to say on Tuesday:
Andre Ward:
“I always look forward to the conference calls because it lets me know this fight is right around the corner. I know for me personally I’ve done everything I need to do to prepare for a huge fight like this. Mentally, physically I’m pushing my body to the limit where only my coach knows when to pull me back. Because if it was left up to me I’d continue to just grind, grind, and grind. We’ve done everything we’re supposed to do. I’m physically fit, mentally fit. I feel fast, I feel strong, I feel explosive.”
What has the Super Six done for your popularity and visibility?
“I think before the Super Six the super middleweights were really a sleeper division. They looked right over the super middleweight division. They talked more about the light heavyweight division. And now people are talking about us and even after the tournament they are looking at the possible matchups with the fighters. I don’t think I would have gotten this much visibility, or the division wouldn’t have either, if it wasn’t for the Super Six Tournament. The Fight Camp 360° and the Staredown that just played, those are being watched by the mainstream fans.”
How did the delay in the fight affect your camp?
“I had already left home and you’re working day in and day out and then the cut happened. It’s obviously a let down. Physically, you have to be smart. The warrior in you, the fighter in you, especially with the stakes that are on the line, wants to keep grinding and keep working hard but you just have to be smart about it.
“One of my goals has always been for me to be Fighter of the Year and to get my coach Coach of the Year. It’s been a long time coming, almost 15 years of grinding and toiling when no one is around patting you on the back and there are no lights, camera, action. The lights and the cameras have just been coming around the last five, six, seven years but we’ve been grinding for many, many years. (Getting nominated as Fighter of the Year) would be icing on the cake for winning this tournament.”
Do you feel like your lack of flash has hurt you in a sport where flash and trash talking are so common?
“I’ve set out from day one to do things that I’ve been raised to do. I’m not going to change for anybody. I’m going to be myself. You’d be surprised how many people outside of boxing have come up to me and said, ‘Hey, I appreciate the way you carry yourself. I’m going to have my son or daughter look to you as an example.’ That kind of stuff right there means a lot more to mean than gaining a few more fans or writers saying, ‘Hey, this guy is crazy and we love him.’ Because if you look at a guy like Ricardo Mayorga, for example, he was a shooting star. He came in and made some noise and then he was gone. And people take shots at him and say he’s ignorant. Then when you have a fighter who comes in and tries to carry himself the right way, not as a front or an act but just has a clean lifestyle, then that’s not accepted either.
“So at the end of the day I’ve got to live my life in the middle. I can’t get caught up in wondering if people will like it or not. When it’s all said and done my children are going to look back on my career and I want to be able to point to my career and say, ‘Follow your dad. Do it the way he did it.’ Once this is all done and I hang them up, the legacy that is there will be there forever. So that’s more important for me to get a few pats on the back or for them to say you’re exciting outside of the ring. When you tell people you’re a fighter they expect you to be ignorant and to act a certain way. Like I’ve said many times I wasn’t raised that way.”
How do you expect the fight to go?
“Well, if you’ve seen my fights you know I do a little bit of everything and I also have the wherewithal to make adjustments throughout the fight. There are ebbs and flows in big fights like this. I’m expecting a very physical fight. As I’ve mentioned earlier, you don’t just win these types of fights, you’ve got to take them. Because you have two guys who have belts and you’re in a tournament that no one wants to lose. So you have to go take it and that’s what I’m prepared to do.”
Do you feel you have the power to hurt Carl?
“Absolutely. Don’t believe the hype. Absolutely.”
Carl Froch:
What has the Super Six done for your popularity and visibility?
“I’m getting viewed on TV by many fight fans now which is great. I’ve actually become more popular in American than before in England, which is great. I’ve really gotten some great matchups since the tournament started. (Andre) Dirrell, (Mikkel) Kessler, (Arthur) Abraham, (Glen) Johnson and now Ward. I don’t think those fights would have happened if it wasn’t for the tournament. It’s been great for Andre and it’s been great for myself.”
How did the delay in the fight affect your preparation?
“It actually worked in my favor. My trainer Rob McCracken is the head coach for the Great Britain Olympic boxing team and they actually had an Olympic qualifying tournament two weeks before my departure for New York for the previous date. It was going to work into my rest week and we were going to be OK with it. So essentially I had a two-week break when I heard about Ward’s injury. So I had a week with my family and then another week when I started to crank it up a bit. It was a little disappointing for me but the main problem it caused was having to get new flights and cheaper flights for my fans. But the response has been great since and each day I’m getting more and more people who are excited about coming over for the fight. It’s going to work out perfect.”
What do you expect to see from Andre Ward in this fight?
“Styles make fights, it’s an old cliché. It’s hard to look at past fights of fighters and then try and draw a conclusion on how a fight is going to go. I expect for him to come to box and to use his jab and his boxing skills. But he may try and close the gap and get into my chest and get rough in there. It’s hard to tell what to expect. It’s going to be a fantastic fight between two high level fighters. It’s going to be a war. There is a plan A and a plan B and maybe even a plan C.”
How has this tournament made you a better fighter?
“I think in the Pascal fight I was seen as more of a brawler early on before I started to get behind my jab and box and that made the fight a little bit easier for me. Against Taylor I needed a big finish which I got. I was able to show a lot of my skill against Arthur Abraham. You always learn about yourself fight by fight. I’ve learned a lot about myself and my style. I’m in a happy place right now. I know exactly what I need to do to win this fight. I’m confident and I’m looking forward to doing my business on the 17th.”
Virgil Hunter, Ward’s Trainer:
“It’s been a nice ride and we’re really looking forward to the conclusion. I can’t say we’ve had a perfect camp because we haven’t. There are always obstacles in camp but the main thing is, can you overcome those obstacles. Because perfection in a camp does not mean perfection in a fight and imperfection in a camp does not mean imperfection in a fight. We’re prepared for anything.
“Before Andre was a boxer he was a fighter, he would fight his way to victory. If you’re going to win a gold medal in the Olympics, you’re going to have to adapt to the amateur and point system and learn to win that way. So he’s had to adapt through training and repetition. But the fighting never left him. And I think that is one thing that surprises people about his fighting ability. Carl has said Andre hasn’t fought in any exciting fights. Well, it takes two to make an exciting fight and when one guy is dominating it’s not going to be exciting. When you’ve got two guys busting each other up beside the head, yes, from the fans’ perspective and the media’s perspective, that’s exciting. His fighting ability has always been there and the power of that fighting ability is that he knows when to use that strength against you and he knows when to use his opponents’ strength against him. That’s what makes up Andre Ward.
“I’m very excited about this fight because Carl is such a respected fighter. One thing about Froch is that I don’t think he’s going to do the same things the other fighters we have fought have. I don’t know if the media has picked up on it but after three or four rounds, they don’t want to fight Andre anymore. They want to protect themselves. They don’t want to take a beating. They start turning and start protecting themselves. A beating is career-threatening and this is what he is capable of doing to you. Carl has promised to fight till the end so I think this is going to be a fight that the fans are really going to enjoy. I would be disappointed if he didn’t fight and I think he will fight till the end.
“I don’t think any camp is perfect. I think our camp is designed not to be perfect. I get killers that come to my camp. I don’t want anyone coming in laid back coming just to collect a paycheck. I want them to sacrifice themselves and try and take (Andre’s) head off. You can do everything right. You can get your mileage in, you can get your sprints in, you can get your stopwatch and get you heartbeat and heart rate. Your diet, everything. And one punch can throw that right out of the window. Because it’s a mental game. You have to be able to stand up to what you’re facing so I don’t put much emphasis on perfection in camp that everything goes well and then assume that everything is going to go well in the fight. I really like to see a struggling camp and an overcoming aspect week by week and the adjustments you make to know that when the fight comes about, no matter the situation, that this fighter is going to adapt to that situation quickly and he’s going to accommodate that situation quickly. That’s what I mean by that.”
Rob McCracken, Froch’s Trainer:
“It’s been a good camp so far and it’s really going well. Anything can happen in boxing but Carl is in absolutely fantastic shape. He’s looking forward to this fight. I think everyone knows he’s a prize fighter and he really enjoys this sport and he really likes to fight. I really think that’s why he’s the fighter he is and why he’s in the tournament Final. This is what boxing is all about: two tremendous boxers fighting each other for a world title.”
Dan Goossen, Ward’s Promoter:
“To me the Super Six Tournament is one of the greatest things to happen to boxing over the past 20 or 30 years because you are guaranteed to have the best fight the best. I just think it’s a great concept. It will work again with the stipulation that the best are fighting the best.
“Carl Froch has been as quiet as a mouse (on this call).”
Eddie Hearn, Froch Promoter:
“We really want to thank SHOWTIME for sticking it out and putting this tournament out there. Many wondered if it would ever conclude and it’s been just a great journey. The Fight Camp 360° shows have been brilliant and really help build the profile of the fighters, and has given them so much exposure. Carl has become the most popular fighter in the UK now. This is the kind of fight that boxing needs and I’m proud to be on Carl’s team.”
Chris DeBlasio, Vice President, Sports Communications, Showtime Networks Inc.:
“We’re coming down the home stretch… internally from every corner of our company here at SHOWTIME the anticipation is palpable. The reaction we’ve gotten as we head into this Final has been overwhelming. And considering the endeavor we’ve taken upon here with the Super Six World Boxing Classic, the very first of its kind, it’s been just a wild, wild, ride for the fighters and we hope for the fans.
“We appreciate the media’s support and coverage–both positive, negative and otherwise. All of it has added to the intensity of the tournament. It has added to the notoriety that both Andre Ward and Carl Froch are deservedly getting at this point. Both of these men, along with their respective fight teams truly deserve to be here.
“Two of the original six. You have made a commitment to this and you have survived a gauntlet, fighting the best fighters in the super middleweight division. We are really proud at SHOWTIME to present this event. I can’t overstate that.
“So congratulations to both Andre Ward and Carl Froch and to your respective fight teams and families for your sacrifice and commitment to the Super Six. You’ve set yourselves apart in boxing by taking on the best fight after fight. That’s what SHOWTIME Sports set out to do and that’s what you have done. We anticipate nothing less than a monstrous finish on Dec. 17.”
Photos: Golovkin-Simon Weights, IBO Middleweight Title Will Now Be Up For Grabs
Photos: Photo: K2 Promotions/Horstmüller GmbH
Only one day left before WBA world middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin will defend his title against Lajuan Simon. Today the two fighters stepped on the scale. Golovkin weighed 71.9 kg (158.5 lbs) and Simon weighed 71.0 kg (156.5 lbs). The officials are WBA Ssupervisor: Jesper Jensen (Denmark), Referee: Jose Ignacio Martinez (Spain), Judges: Pawel Kardyni (Poland), Philippe Verbeke (Belgium) and Artur Ellensohn (Germany). Today the IBO announced that the bout will also be for the vacant IBO world middleweight title.
Tom Loeffler of K2 Promotions: “Both fighters are in great shape and this should be an exciting championship fight. We are happy to have been able to save these two title fights from the cancelled Klitschko vs. Mormeck show. I am sure it is going to be a unique event and a very special atmosphere for the boxing fans.”
The co-feature of this K2 Promotions event will be Isa Akberbayev vs Armin Dollinger. Akberbayev weighed in at 89.5 kg (197.3 lbs), Dollinger will step on the scale tomorrow morning. Additional fights on the card are middleweights Vladimir Schipizin (Neuss, Germany) vs. Toni Camin (Lüneburg, Germany) as well as the female flyweight fight between Raja Amesheh (Karlsruhe, Germany) vs. Julija Cvetkova (Jelgava, Latvia). Golovkin vs. Simon will be broadcast live on bild.de
Video: Island 3 PPV Video Promo
"Island Assault 3," presented by Zanfer Promotions and Saved by the Bell Promotions, is being distributed in the United States by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 8:00 PM/ET - 11:00 PM/PT on satellite pay-per-view via DISH Network , for a suggested retail price of only $29.95. Availability via on-line PPV will be announced shortly.
For more information about the "Island Assault 3" PPV event go to www.integratedsportsnet.com. Follow Integrated Sports Media on Twitter @IntegratedPPV.
Segura-Viloria Officials Named
WBO president Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel announced today the referee and judges who will work on the world title bout between Flyweight champion Brian Viloria and former Junior Flyweight titlist Giovani Segura this Saturday, December 11 in tha Yñares Sports Arena i