"A rematch with Roy has been in the back of my mind for a long time and it's finally going to happen," said Hopkins. "I have accomplished a lot in my career since that night in Washington, DC in 1993, and I am going to end this thing between me and Roy once and for all."

"We're giving the fans what they want to see. They deserve this fight and why not supply the fans with their demands?" said Jones. "Now I can finally terminate the Executioner once and for all. My new nickname for this fight will be - The Terminator.."

"As a fan, I am excited that the fight is finally happening and that we don't have to wait any longer to see this great rivalry continue," said Oscar de la Hoya, President of Golden Boy Promotions. "This fight is so exciting and intriguing because of how much is at stake for both Hopkins and Jones. They would not let anything get in the way of this fight finally getting made. They both deserve this after everything they have achieved in their respective careers."

"We're ecstatic that the fight was made and we're looking forward to a great event," said John Wirt, CEO of Square Ring. "There's been a long-standing rivalry between two of the preeminent boxers of our generation. This fight will establish once and for all who the better fighter is. This is the fight Roy always wanted."

"The Bernard Hopkins-Roy Jones fight at Mandalay Bay in April will be a tremendous event," said Richard Sturm, president of Sports and Entertainment for MGM MIRAGE. "These two great legends of the sport remain fan favorites and are sure to bring another exciting battle to the ring.

On May 22, 1993, Hopkins and Jones fought for the vacant IBF middleweight belt, the first shot at a world title for both fighters, in the HBO-televised co-feature to the Riddick Bowe vs. Jesse Ferguson heavyweight title fight at RFK Stadium in Washington, DC. At the time of the bout, Jones was undefeated (21-0, 20 KOs) and a highly-touted Olympian (teammate of Bowe on the 1988 U.S. team), who received the Val Barker Trophy (for most stylistic boxer) at the Seoul games despite being robbed of a deserved Gold Medal.

On the other side of the ring stood the menacing Hopkins (22-1, 16 KOs), a Philadelphia fighter known more for his criminal history and a stay at a maximum security prison than his steadily rising ring reputation. Unveiling his "Executioner" ring name and full face mask to the fans in attendance and national television audience did nothing to help Hopkins' popularity against the effervescent Jones.

The fight, which Jones won by unanimous decision, was a hard fought contest that set the stage for both fighters' respective paths to boxing stardom. Jones went on to win titles in four weight classes, including middleweight, super middleweight, light heavyweight and his historic heavyweight championship. Hopkins, who claimed Jones' vacated IBF middleweight title in 1995, didn't lose another fight for 12 years following his battle with Jones. While Jones ruled as pound-for-pound best for the better part of a decade, Hopkins took advantage of his middleweight crown by setting a record of 20 defenses and solidifying his place as one of the greatest middleweight fighters in the history of the sport.

At 45 years young, Bernard Hopkins is still rated among the top pound for pound best in boxing. After his victory over Segundo Mercado in 1995 for the IBF middleweight title, Hopkins' momentum began to build as he scored victories over quality contenders such as John David Jackson, Glencoffe Johnson, Simon Brown, Robert Allen and Antwun Echols to name a few. The 2000s defined Hopkins' career starting with his win over Keith Holmes in April of 2001 in the opening round of the Middleweight Unification Tournament followed by a stunning 12th round stoppage of Felix "Tito" Trinidad on September 29, 2001 at Madison Square Garden. Following four more defenses of his middleweight crown, Hopkins was brought into the mainstream spotlight when faced Oscar de la Hoya in 2004. His ninth round knockout of "The Golden Boy" allowed Hopkins to attain his 19th title defense - setting a record and making him the first fighter to hold the belt of all four major sanctioning organizations at the same time (not to mention also owning the Ring Magazine title).

In 2006, Hopkins moved up to light heavyweight for the first time in his career to defeat Antonio Tarver for The Ring Magazine Light Heavyweight World Championship. He next dominated Winky Wright at 170 pounds in continuing to prove his ring supremacy. His signature destruction of the younger and then undefeated Kelly Pavlik in October of 2008 defined the true meaning of Hopkins' career, as he took Pavlik to task as a cagey veteran who knows how to dismantle many a young fighters' championship dreams. With his most recent win, a dominant performance over Enrique Ornelas in front of a hometown Philly crowd of nearly 7,000 people, Hopkins showed the world that age is nothing but a number. Now his career will come full circle with the Jones fight with Hopkins hoping for a sweet victory and long awaited revenge.

Roy Jones Jr.'s storied career has had countless defining moments which have catapulted him to being a household name. Jones was unstoppable in the 90's as he stunned his opponents with incredible speed and relentless power. He made history on March 1, 2003 when he thwarted then-heavyweight champion John Ruiz to become the first former middleweight champion to win the heavyweight title in more than 100 years.

Jones has always taken pride in defying the critics, which is in large part why he set his sights on John Ruiz' heavyweight crown. Following the Ruiz conquest, Jones dropped down to light heavyweight in order to take on Florida rival Antonio Tarver on November 8, 2003. It was Jones' hardest fight until that point in his career. He captured a split decision victory, but it foreshadowed things to come for the proud, but suddenly vulnerable Jones, who suffered consecutive defeats to Tarver and a surprising loss to Glen Johnson.

Down, but not out, Jones came back to score wins in his next two fights, setting up a highly-anticipated dual with Felix "Tito" Trinidad at Madison Square Garden on January 19, 2008. A renewed Jones looked sharp and focused, flooring an overmatched Trinidad twice, in breezing to a unanimous decision win. Jones returned to Madison Square Garden in November of that same year and after 12 hard fought rounds came up short against future Hall of Famer Joe Calzaghe. Jones defeated his next two opponents in Omar Sheika and Jeff Lacy respectively. Most recently, Jones suffered a devastating first-round knock out loss on December 2 against Australia's Danny Green. As Jones is disputing the loss, he remains confident he can overcome this recent defeat, and take on Hopkins with that same unbelievable boxing prowess that he has been known for throughout his record-setting career.

Tickets priced at $750, $500, $300, $200 and $100 are on sale now 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 will be available for purchase at www.mandalaybay.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

The Hopkins vs. Jones II pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and has a suggested retail price of $49.95. The telecast will be available in HD-TV for those viewers who can receive HD. The main event will begin live immediately following the college basketball semi-finals. For Hopkins vs. Jones II fight week updates, log on to www.goldenboypromotions.com.


An exciting undercard will be announced shortly. For more information regarding the April 3 event, please visit www.goldenboypromotions.com.

Mikkel Kessler and Jimmy Montoya held a public training session at Berlin´s Max-Schmeling-Gym on Tuesday afternoon. The Viking Warrior is shaping up in the German capital ahead of his Super Six second-round clash with WBC Champion Carl Froch. “Things have been going fine in Berlin,” Kessler stated. “Froch said he wants to decapitate me but I think it will be the other way round..”

(CINCINNATI, OHIO) – Over 70 of the nation’s top Under-19 boxers braved the winter conditions to travel to Cincinnati, Ohio, on Monday for the 2010 Under-19 National Championships at the Hyatt Regency Cincinnati. Preliminary action will kick off on Tuesday evening at 7 p.m. EST with eight bouts on tap to open the tournament. First round action will take place in the featherweight, lightweight and welterweight action on Tuesday night.. Sixteen boxers from 12 states will take the ring to compete for a national title and the opportunity to represent USA Boxing in the 2010 Youth World Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan. Preliminary round action will continue on Wednesday evening with nine bouts in the featherweight, light welterweight and middleweight divisions.

The Under-19 National Championships is a critical tournament in the development process of future Olympians and professional world champions. The event, which has taken place since 1983, has featured many of the greats of the sport early in their budding careers. Since its inception, 18 Under-19 National Champions have gone on to represent the United States in the Olympic Games. Three of the 18 Olympians - Meldrick Taylor, David Reid and Andre Ward went on to claim gold medals at the Olympics, two claimed silver medals and four won bronze, including Cincinnati’s own Tim Austin.

The final list of competitors and event brackets were finalized Monday night at the official event draw. Tuesday night’s full bout sheet is attached, and event results will be disseminated upon completion of the bouts.

2010 Under-19 National Championships Competitors

106 lbs
Rondarrius Hunter, Atlanta, Georgia
Carlos Suarez, Lima, Ohio

112 lbs
Emmanuel Folly, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Ray Ximenez, Dallas, Texas

119 lbs
Gabriel Montoya, Cheyenne, Wyoming
Emonte Scruggs, Dayton, Ohio
David Rios, Edinburg, Texas
Tyler McCreary

125 lbs
Sejad Fradi, Dearborn Heights, Michigan
Luis Angel Zarazua, Edinburg, Texas
Albert Bell, Toledo, Ohio
Luis Feliciano, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Dennis Galarza, Orlando, Florida
Nick Christiansen, Ellsworth, Wisconsin
Ricky Rodriguez, Evans, Colorado
Victor Pasillas, E. Los Angeles, California
Jeremy Longoria, Corpus Christi, Texas

132 lbs

Ace’son Leseure, Corpus Christi, Texas
Xavier Monelongo, Jr., E. Los Angeles, California
Gregory Young, Jr., Pewlben, Arizona
Divante Jones, Hephzibah, Georgia
Antonio Capulin, Houston, Texas
Ryan Martin, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Arthur Porter, Monroe, Michigan

141 lbs
Kent Cruz, St. Louis, Missouri
David Moore, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
George Rincon, Carrollton, Texas
Ryan Karl, Milano, Texas
Gregorio Vergaro, Lexington, Kentucky
R.G. Garcia
Scott Sedan

152 lbs
David Lightfoot, Zanesville, Ohio
Jerry Tristan, Katy, Texas
Jake Maier, Pittsburgh, Pa.
Xavier DeLuca, Fort Morgan, Colorado
Quashwan Toler, Cincinnati, Ohio

165 lbs
Julius Butler, St. Louis, Missouri
Daquan Arnett, Orlando, Florida
Quotavious Cash, Atlanta, Georgia
Richard Romero, Los Angeles, California
Immanuwel Aleem, Richmond, Virginia
Dimitrius Ballard, Temple Hills, Maryland

178 lbs
Jerry Odom, Bowie, Maryland
Robert Hall, Jr., Johnson City, Tennessee
Trevor McCumby, Yorkville, Illinois
Juan Salinas, Youngstown, Ohio

201 lbs
Joshua Temple, St. Louis, Missouri
Timothy Moten, Louisville, Kentucky

Female/152 lbs

Maria Norton Baumer, Cincinnati, Ohio
Sariah Edwards, Lexington, Kentucky

by James Slater - Immediately after he'd stopped a brave Antonio DeMarco in the 10th-round on Saturday night, improving his perfect record to 27-0(27), WBC lightweight king Edwin Valero again called out fellow southpaw and reigning pound-for-pound star Manny Pacquiao. Saying a fight between he and the Filipino legend is a fight "the whole world wants to see," the lethal-punching Venezuelan made it clear he'd be willing to move up in weight to make the super-fight happen.

Indeed, the word is, "El Inca" will make the move up to 140-pounds in his very next fight (tantalising whispers suggest Valero could possibly fight WBO light-welterweight champion Timothy Bradley in the summer!). Believing he can carry his power - punching power that has seen him win every single one of his pro bouts inside the distance - up with him to 140 and maybe even beyond, Valero is hungry for a mega-match with "Pac-Man." He is not the only one!

As big a fight as Pacquiao-Floyd Mayweather would have been (and maybe still will be), a fight between Pacquiao and Valero is something else altogether.. Not as big a mainstream fight, a showdown between the two southpaws who carry dynamite in their gloves would be a hardcore fight fans' dream. But what are the chances of it happening, and of Valero being capable of wreaking havoc as a 140-pounder?

First of all, Pacquiao must get past the tough and durable Joshua Clottey in March. No easy fight for Manny, the March 13th clash could even conceivably ruin any talk of a fight with Valero. Secondly, Valero must win his debut at 140-pounds (if this debut IS against the man known as "Desert Storm," there is no guarantee he will do so). But assuming both men do win their next fight, could we see Valero get his wish later this year or early next?

Pacquiao, if he cannot get the winner of Shane Mosley-Floyd Mayweather to agree to fight him this year, would have no name more appealing to the fans than Valero. Though he's a huge enough name to be able to fight just about anybody and have his fans tuning in, Mayweather and Mosley aside, a fight with Valero makes the most sense and has more intrigue to it than any other for Pac-Man. Who wouldn't want to see this fight?

And Valero, at a listed 5'6," is tall enough to be able to move up to 140-pounds. Only a fraction shorter in height than Pacquiao, Valero actually has a slightly longer reach than Manny. And if Valero were able to carry his frightening power up with him, well, his chances of beating even as great a fighter as Pacquiao would have to be looked at as at least pretty good.

The sight the fight would be held at could possibly prove somewhat problematic. It's well known how Valero is unable to fight anywhere in America other than Texas, and a fight the magnitude of Valero-Pacquiao would be best suited to Las Vegas or New York. But the again, Pacquiao-Clottey is taking place in Dallas, Texas, so why not Pacquiao-Valero? Or how about the fight happening in The Philippines? The bout would not make as much money if it happened there, but Manny has fought at home before. Imagine what an occasion it would be for Manny's adoring countrymen to see their hero fight such a big fight in Manila!

Wherever it were staged, and at whichever weight (Manny may not wish to drop back down to 140), this fight would have no trouble at all getting the fans to tune in. Two fast, powerful and talented fighters going at it head-on; what's not to like? Would Pacquiao be able to cope with Valeros' wicked punches and relentless aggression? Would the less-polished Valero be able to deal with Pacquiao's punching power along with his finer overall skills? Could the clash of southpaws possibly go the distance?

These questions and far more besides will hopefully be answered in the coming months. Let's hope the promoters involved recognise how big a deal the making of this fight is to boxing fans!

Dublin's Anthony Fitzgerald is adamant that despite a late change of opponent he'll still be wrapping the Irish Super Middleweight title belt around his waist on Saturday night. Fitzgerald will now face former Irish Champ Ciaran Healy in one of 4 Irish title fights on this Saturday's Yanjing Fight Night at The National Stadium in Dublin..

The long anticipated Irish Lightweight title fight between unbeaten Cavan star Andy Murray and Dublin's Oisin “Gael Force” Fagan tops the bill but Fitzgerald believes that his clash with Healy will also have plenty of fireworks. Fitzgerald had been due to meet Lee Murtagh but the Leeds based Irishman withdrew from the bout for the second time in just over 2 months citing an injury and Healy didn't need to be asked twice to replace him.

“Ciaran's tough, strong and very experienced and he always comes to have a fight but that will suit me because I won't have to go looking for him,” said Fitzgerald. “I was disappointed to hear that Murtagh had pulled out again but I wasn't really surprised. We were supposed to fight in December on the Matthew Macklin bill and when he pulled out then I gave him the benefit of the doubt. Looking at it now though I think he knew what he was in for and he just didn't fancy the job but I know that Ciaran is the kind of guy that will get in there and have a scrap with anyone.“

Fitzgerald's thoughts are backed up by Healy's record which includes names such as Andy Lee, former European Champ Jamie Moore, Olympic Gold medallist James DeGale and reigning British super Middleweight Champion Paul Smith. The Belfast battler also holds a fifth round KO win over Murtagh in a fight that saw him win the Irish Light Middleweight title at the Kings Hall in 2007.

For Fitzgerald the late change of opponent means having to adjust from preparing for a southpaw to Healy who fights from an orthodox stance but the Inner City Dubliner says that won't be a problem.“It just means changing tactics a bit but I've trained hard for this and I'm very confident. That title will be coming back to Sean McDermott street with me on Saturday night.”

Murtagh has apologised for his withdrawal telling Irish-Boxing.com that he is now contemplating retirement. “I was sparring on the previous Saturday and I went to throw a punch and the top half of my body turned, but the lower half didn’t and I ended up going over on my knee,” said Murtagh.

“There was heavy swelling and it turned out I’d torn the cartilage which caused internal bleeding. I went to the hospital and got an X-ray but the injury couldn’t be drained. I’m totally off my feet at the moment and ironically it’s the left leg, whereas last time I injured my right. I had taken two weeks in Tenerife to get away from the snow in Leeds and I felt great, was under the stipulated weight limit and am totally gutted about letting people down,” Murtagh lamented.

“I would love to come back, but I have a gym to run and if my knees are not working anymore, what else can I do but retire?”

The other two Irish title fights on the card will see Galway's Coleman Barrett contesting the vacant Irish heavyweight title with Dublin's Colin Kenna while Tallaght's undefeated Patrick Hyland will make the first defence of his Irish Featherweight title against Mickey Coveney.

Three other non title fights on the bill will see Cuban KO sensation Alexei Acosta, featherweight prospect Willie Casey and new Belfast pro Jamie Conlan looking to extend their unbeaten records.

Tickets for the Yanjing Fight Night priced €30, €40, €50 and €60 are available from Ticketmaster (phone 0818 719 300 or visit ticketmaster.ie) and all usual outlets.

by James Slater - In earning a shot at current IBF light-heavyweight champion Tavoris Cloud, ageless wonder Glen Johnson looked nothing short of brilliant this past Friday night when he hammered Yusaf Mack to a 6th-round defeat. Winning his 50th pro fight, the incredible 41-year-old "Road Warrior" now finds himself back in a position to be able to earn some big money in the somewhat quiet 175-pound division.

Chad Dawson, twice a points winner over the Jamaican who lives in Florida, is the best fighter in the division, but he is no star and he also has a less than trilling style of fighting; while ageing warriors Bernard Hopkins and Roy Jones Junior are big names but neither guy figures to stick around in the weight class for too much longer (Hopkins, should he beat Jones in April, may even go up to heavyweight). So, in terms of a great action fight, the possible Johnson-Cloud clash is probably the best bet.

Cloud, 20-0(18) an all-out action fighter who never stops throwing punches, will likely prove a tougher foe for Johnson than Mack did.. Unbeaten, of course, and so much younger than the former champion at age 28, Cloud has also shown good power and a sturdy chin thus far in his career. Johnson is the more accomplished boxer, with many tricks up his sleeve, but there is a chance he could simply be outworked and out-punched by the man who can throw close to a hundred punches a round when he fights. As great and as fresh as Johnson amazingly looked against Mack, it's inevitable that his well will one day run dry - no-one can go on forever. But will Johnson at last begin showing his age in this fight (if it happens)?

In all likelihood, the fight, when it takes place, will be an all-out slugfest. Cloud seemingly knows no other way to fight (nor does he want to find one, the aggressive slugger he is), while going toe-to-toe in a bout is something that Johnson has shown a number of times he is more than willing as well as capable of doing. Sure, Johnson may opt to use his smarts and box more against the onrushing Cloud, but at some time in the fight the fireworks will begin.

If Johnson, 50-13-2(34) can keep going for a little while longer and if he can keep fighting at a pace we saw him box at against Mack, the 41-year-old will, in my opinion, pick up another title. A Johnson points win, in a thriller, is my prediction for the fight we all want to see. It's not likely these two will meet up in March - the 26th of March being the date Cloud is next set to fight, in Las Vegas - as it would be too soon for Johnson after his last fight; but if Cloud wins his next fight, the match-up should happen in the summer.

When Cloud and Johnson do meet, expect a barnburner of a fight; something the 175-pound weight class could do with.

"Comanche Boy" George Tahdooahnippah literally weathered the ice storm of January 2010 and came out victorious in his bout with Ohio native Chris Overby.

Tahdooahnippah (22-0-1) displayed his superior boxing skills with a unanimous decision over the game Overby. "There were a lot of distractions outside the boxing event with the weather and the state of Oklahoma, but I am fighter obligated to win. Regardless the circumstances, I must win," Tahdooahnippah said.. "Overby had the opportunity to fight an undefeated fighter. He had nothing to lose, but he was outmatched and out classed. My thanks to the fans and supporters who braved the ice and snow on January 28th. I'm ready for whatever else the year brings- let's get it rolling 2010!!!" Visit www.comancheboy.com for more fight information and Comanche Boy news.


Joseph Judah returns on March 26th, in Palm Desert California

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - (February 9, 2010) Undefeated welterweight prospect Joseph Judah (5-0, 1 KOs) returns to the boxing ring against the always dangerous TBA, on a fight card promoted by Steve Quinonez Jr. of Champion Promotions, on Friday, March 26th at the Palm Desert Athletic Center in Palm Desert, CA.

Joseph Judah said "I am ready to bring excitement back to the sport of boxing. "When I step in the ring on March 26th, the boxing world can expect a spectacular victory."

In his last fight on November 6, 2009 in Las Vegas, Judah scored a dominating four round decision victory over Joel Gonzalez.

Joseph Judah said "I want to thank my fans for all of their support. I have a solid team behind me at Joseph Judah Promotions, we are working hard every day to represent brooklyn to the fullest."

Macke Roberts said "Joseph Judah wants to fight at least once every month this year. The welterweight division better watch out because Joseph Judah is coming for you."

To get Joseph Judah fight tickets for March 26th in Palm Desert, California, use the purchase code "I WANT JOSEPH JUDAH" and call Ph# (760) 835-3234.


INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING KNOCKOUT SERIES AT NORFOLK SCOPE ARENA BOXING’S RENAISSANCE AT NORFOLK SCOPE APRIL 3RD, 2010

NORFOLK, VA February 9, 2010 – The International Championship Boxing, ICB Knockout Series, will premier at Norfolk Scope Arena on April 3, 2010 as part of its “Boxing From Around the World” brand. This will be the first in a series of confirmed matches at Norfolk Scope Arena.

This series serves as an opportunity for veteran promoter Jack Fulton to showcase a variety of boxers from all over the globe.

“This area has a rich boxing history and a series like this is long overdue. I’m just thrilled that we are finally making it happen! says Fulton. We’ll be showcasing fighters from different continents in a variety of weight classes. ICB has it all, from seasoned competitors to tomorrow’s heroes.”

ICB has enlisted the matchmaking services of boxing legend Don Elbaum to ensure that patrons’ high standards are met. Elbaum, best known as mentor to Don King, is also the house matchmaker for the historic Blue Horizon in Philadelphia, one of boxing’s quintessential venues.

“Get ready for some excellent boxing,” says Elbaum, “ICB will be featuring boxers from Las Vegas, Philadelphia, New York, Minnesota, Israel, several countries in Africa but most importantly, you’ll see the enormous amount of world class talent that exists in Hampton Roads.

ICB will be hosting a Corporate Marketing and Sales Event at Norfolk Scope Arena on March 9, 2010. This invitation only event will allow potential corporate partners the opportunity to view the staging and venue set up as it will be throughout the series. Invitees will also be able to secure sponsorships and marketing opportunities as well as purchase season tickets and reserve seating.

A limited number of invitations will be made available to the general public by registering at www.icbknockoutseries.com. The event will also host autograph sessions with current boxing industry figures including journalists, former champions, matchmakers and more.

Future ICB Knockout Series matches are scheduled to take place at Norfolk Scope Arena in April, May, June, July and August. The series will conclude with a Military Tribute Fight on September 11th, 2010.

Tickets, as well as a limited number of VIP ringside tables for sponsors and their guests, will be available through the Scope Box Office. For ticket information, call the Scope Box Office at 757-664-6464. For sponsorship information, call ICB at 1-800-245-1599.

By Paul Strauss: Edwin El Inca Dinamita Valero came very close to ruining his string of victories and stoppages when he suffered a horrendous cut to his forehead in the second round of his fight with Antonio DeMarco. The cut came from a freakishly sharp (accidental) left elbow. The cut was so nasty that it seemed an almost certainty the fight would be stopped. The good thing for Valero was the location of the cut, which was high up and to the right side of the forehead. As a result, most of the blood stayed out of the right eye.

However, Valero also suffered a bad cut to the right eyelid, but his corner did a great job keeping the bleeding under control. However, initially the right side of Valero’s face was a crimson mask, but it didn’t keep the Venezuelan knockout artist from attacking.

Credit should be given to DeMarco as well. He weathered a tremendous attack throughout the fight, and seemed to maintain his poise and confidence right up until the end.. He wasn’t just surviving either. He landed very good counter right jabs and hooks, along with powerful straight lefts. However, like most of Valero’s opponents, he paid the price for doing so. Valero would eat a good shot and retaliate with blinding speed and punishing power. DeMarco kept his stoic look, but it was obvious no one could withstand the onslaught for very long. DeMarco managed to do so longer than most.

Saturday night was unusual for several reasons. First, it was Valero’s first big exposure in the USA, and he undoubtedly added a goodly number to his fan base. It was also the first time in several years that Showtime televised a fight card from Mexico. Right from the beginning Valero looked like an enraged predator. His mouth was open, but not because he needed more oxygen; rather, it seemed to enable him to snarl and growl. Often his hands were low, inviting punches, which when thrown also created the openings he wanted. Many times he would slip punches, or take a quick half step back and then pounce like a leopard and fire off rapid fire shots that landed with thudding power. He demonstrated the unusual ability to not only double up on his shots, but to triple up and more with the same hand. Often it would be with his powerful left. Many times DeMarco would manage to avoid the first one or even two, but not the rest of the battery.

There were comparisons between Valero and Pacquiao even before Saturday night, and his impressive win over DeMarco added to the mystique. But, does he really have a chance to usurp that P4P title from the PacMan? His record alone lends credence to the argument, but has he really demonstrated his greatness against the best opposition? He certainly has done everything asked of him, and seems eager to fight anyone out there to prove his worthiness, but even his most ardent fans would have to agree that he isn’t yet capable of doing the things the PacMan can do. If they were matched right now, there is no doubt PacMan would beat Valero. First of all, PacMan is physically bigger. He also possesses everything Valeron has plus a lot more. He has equal or greater speed and power. In the recent past year or so the PacMan has become a much smarter fighter as well. His defense his better, and he employs better use of all the punches and angles, and always with tremendous power. He is extremely accurate, and no one in the fight game can equal him with the ability to unleash multiple punch combinations from one point and finish them from another. His side to side movement is much better than Valero’s. He also keeps him hands up more now, even though he too can slip and duck punches. He does all of that while landing counters loaded with knockout power.

Valero, on the other hand, is more of a straight-up fighter, who jumps straight in face first. His multiple punch combinations also lack the variety of PacMan’s, and although powerful, he doesn’t seem to have the one punch kayo power exhibited by the PacMan. In addition, as proven Saturday night, he is vulnerable to damage from head butts. Granted, he doesn’t seemed deterred by the possibility or actual damage done to himself, but it’s not the smartest way to attack. PacMan used to suffer from the same fate, but has since become wiser and more elusive.

Valero backers will agree that he gets hit too much, but they will quickly add that it just doesn’t seem to matter. In fact, it might act as a stimulant, making him mad and causing him to attack with even more ferocity. He’s a lot like Pacquiao in that regard,. When the PacMac gets tagged he takes a quick step back, taps his gloves together and makes a gesture to his opponent like, “Okay, let’s get it on!” It’s a little different with Valero, though. He seems to accept it as normal, and doesn’t appear concerned at all, because he has that supreme confidence in his ability and knows he will eventually overpower his adversary. PacMan is also confident, but seems to be saying, let’s see if you can do that again!

So what’s next for the little kayo artist and DeMarco, his worthy adversary? DeMarco wanted to fight on, but was overruled by his wise and concerned corner? Both fighters have many options. Even in defeat, DeMarco presented himself very well. The shots he landed on Valero would have discouraged just about anyone but Valero. DeMarco can still be a force in the division, and will undoubtedly continue to get better. There really aren’t any sure fire bets in the division that could beat him. His good size and technically sound style will enable him to do well against any in the top ten. That might not have been true if his corner allowed him to continue to take punishment Saturday night.

Of course the same is true for Valero, But unlike the PacMan, it’s doubtful he could carry his power and speed up in weight. The junior welters are loaded with good fighters, who have speed and power, and if they had landed with the same frequency that DeMarco managed against Valero, it’s doubtful El Inca Dinamita could have taken them as well. He might have to languish where he’s at for a while, which isn‘t so bad. After all, he still has Marquez, Soto and Peterson to name a few. And, how would you like to see him battle Katsidis? He probably would win, but wouldn’t is make for an exciting fight?

Valero might even coax a big name up from the lighter weight division for a big payday. But, he should stay in his present weight class. In fact, it might be more plausible for DeMarco to eventually move up in weight class. He has the height, reach and technically sound style to do so. So, for the near future, the PacMan will remain the best P4P. His big fights this year could change that, but let’s hope not, as he has carried the title well and given fans much excitement in doing so.

DeMarco will fully recover from his loss and get better in doing so. He will come back stronger and smarter, and more confident in his abilities. He is young and hasn’t suffered any major damage yet in his career. Look for him to be a force for some time to come, and once again will be a favorite to win a title before he is done.

February 13, 2010, the Las Vegas Hilton will be the site of a great night of boxing as Top Rank, Inc.promotes a great Pay Per View fight card featuring “The Filipino Flash” Nonito Donaire defending his Super-Flyweight title against Mexican banger, Gerson Guerrero. The under card bouts feature many proven veterans and up-and-coming prospects..

One such prospect is Cestus Management’s welterweight destroyer the undefeated Mexican American Raymond Gatica (11-0-0 w/6 kos) who will face off with Filipino southpaw Mark Jason Melligen, in an eight round bout. This fight promises to be an exciting affair as Gatica promises to showcase his skills and take care of business.

Ray "LINO" Gatica had this to say about his opponent, "There is no way that Melligen will beat me, this is the opportunity that i have been waiting for and Melligen will not be able to handle what i will produce on February 13th and i promise that whatever Melligen does i will do better and win the fight with ease". Gatica continued, "I have trained hard and understand what i must do and i will give Melligan what he is used to and that's another loss".

Gina Iacovou, Cestus’ CEO, said, “We are very excited and confident that Ray "LINO" (Gatica) will be victorious and is ready to step-up and begin to make a name for himself. Raymond has been working very hard in the gym and is looking fantastic". Iacovou continued, "Raymond is a very determined young man and the type of pressure and power that Ray "LINO” will produce will shock opponent".

Mike Michael, who is Cestus’ Chief Advisor, said, “Ray Lino Gatica is ready to make his move in the boxing world and we will do whatever it takes to get him into the next levels. He (Gatica) is a very strong kid and a has tremendous natural talent and physical attributes”. Michael continued, "Melligen is a very predictable fighter who has never been in the ring with a fighter as strong and fearless and as gifted as Ray "LINO" Gatica. So lock the doors and run for cover this fight will be explosive!!".


CES inks 3-fight series at Foxwoods CES Presents “Brace For Impact”

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Feb. 8, 2010) – Jimmy Burchfield, president of Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc. (CES), announced today that CES will promote three professional boxing cards at Foxwoods Resort Casino in 2010.

The first show is scheduled for March 12 with the rematch between heavyweights Tony “TNT” Grano (16-1-1, 13 KOs) and Mark “Oak Tree” Brown (15-2, 7 KOs) headlining “Brace For Impact” in Fox Theater at Foxwoods in Mashantucket, Conn. “Brace For Impact” will also include a dynamic undercard, which will be announced shortly. The other CES dates at Foxwoods are Sept. 24 and Oct. 22.

“I’ve been allies and friends with not only the many members of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, but the management of Foxwoods and MGM since before Foxwoods was built,” Burchfield said. “CES has promoted boxing shows at Foxwoods since the beginning and we’re excited to come to an agreement to promote three shows there this year. Fans know that CES promotes competitive fights and entertaining shows that you can’t find anywhere else.

“CES has sold out many shows at this great venue and all of us are very proud to continue that tradition. Our entire team is going to be creative and we’re discussing plans to add unique variety to our 2010 series, including special promotions for our most loyal fight fans.”

Foxwoods has hosted some of boxing’s greatest fights (James Toney vs. Vasilly Jirov, Scott Pemberton vs. Omar Sheika I & II) and fighters (Vinny Paz, Julio Cesar Chavez, Larry Holmes, Evander Holyfield, Roy Jones Jr., Floyd Mayweather Jr., Pernell Whitaker, etc.) during the past two decades.

“Jimmy Burchfield is one of the few hands-on promoters today,” commented William Satti, Director of Public Affairs, Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. “He really believes in boxing and the advancement of fighters. We’re all very familiar with Jimmy and CES. He has promoted great shows here for years and we’re happy he will continue to bring excitement to our venue at Foxwoods.”

Tickets for “Brace For Impact,” priced at $40.00, $60.00 and $100.00, are available to purchase by calling CES (401.724.2253/2254) or Foxwoods (800.200.2882), going online at www.cesboxing.com or www.foxwoods.com, or in person at the Foxwoods box office. For more information contact CES (401.724.2253/2254/www.cesboxing.com) or Foxwoods Resort Casino (www.foxwoods.com). Doors open at 6:00 PM/ET, first bout at 7:00 PM/ET.


It was a knockout weekend on GFL

NEW YORK (February 8, 2010)—This past weekend two big boxing events on the east coast took place and the action was as hot inside the ring as it was cold outside. Despite blizzard conditions, crowds in Philadelphia and Newark saw two incredible nights of boxing that started out on Friday from The Legendary Blue Horizon in Philadelphia where USBA Jr. Middleweight champion Derek “Pooh” Ennis scored a fifth round stoppage over Edwin Vazquez.

The next night in Newark, New Jersey, former Light Heavyweight and Cruiserweight champion Tomasz Adamek scored a unanimous decision victory over former U.S. Olympian Jason Estrada in Adamek’s second start as a Heavyweight. That bout was fought before an astonishing crowd of over 10,000 fans in the Prudential Center in Newark.

Both great events were streamed live and are now available on-demand on www.gofightlive.tv

VALENTINES’S DAY SPECIAL FROM THE LEGENDARY BLUE HORIZON

In the main event, USBA Jr. Middleweight champion Derek “Pooh” Ennis tuned up for a spring title defense by dropping Edwin Vazquez twice in round five with a vicious body assault to score a knockout at 1:26 of that round in their scheduled eight round non title clash.

Ennis showed tremendous hand speed and clearly worked the body behind a solid jab. Vazquez showed a lot of heart and determination as he would not only mock Ennis but try to start some offense for himself.

In round five, Ennis dropped Vazquez with a blistering left to the body and moments later he did the same thing to the other side of Vazquez’ body with the right and the fight called off.

In one of the most anticipated undercard bouts, Former World Junior Amateur champion Joey Dawejko of Philadelphia needed just forty-seven seconds to dispose of Ricardo Johnson.

Dawejko landed a perfect counter right hand that thrilled the crowd that was heavily supporting the nineteen year old from the Tacony section of town.

Dawejko is now 2-0.

Former U.S Olympic alternate, Eric “The Outlaw” drilled out former world title challenger Roberto Bonilla at the end of round one of their scheduled six round featherweight bout.

Hunter dominated the action with blazing handspeed until a left to the live put Bonilla down and out at end of the first stanza.

In the fight of the night, Jackie Davis scored a four round unanimous decision over Melisenda Perez in a ladies four round war.

The two traded shots and thrilled the crowd and the fighters received standing ovations throughout the fight.

Swedish heavyweight Andreas Gustafson moved to 4-0 with a stoppage over Levay King at the end of round two of their scheduled four round bout.

Ronald Cruz scored an impressive third round knockout over the experienced Martinus Clay in a scheduled six round bout.

TO ORDER THIS EVENT FOR JUST $5.99, CLICK

http://www.gofightlive.tv/showEvent.do?event=575

ADAMEK-ESTRADA

Some are calling it controversial; some think the right decision was rendered; now you can be the judge as former Light Heavyweight and Cruiserweight champion Tomasz Adamek battled former U.S. Olympian in a an action filled Heavyweight bout that had a crowd of over 10,000 fans on the edge of their seats at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

It was a close knit battle where both combatants had their moments. But it was Adamek who gained the unanimous decision win and he may now be in position for an April 24th showdown with former world title challenger Chris Arreola.

Estrada was irate at the decision and now the fans all over the world will be able to give their opinion when they order this terrific Heavyweight scrap.

Fans can also witness a terrific three fight undercard that was headlined by undefeated New York based Middleweight, Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin make his return to the squared circle when he takes on veteran Fernando Zuniga.

Two of New Jersey’s better undefeated prospects in Middleweight Patrick Majewski and Dennis “Mamma’s Boy” Douglin were impressive in separate bouts.

TO WATCH THS GREAT NIGHT OF BOXING for $9.99, CLICK:

http://www.gofightlive.tv/showEvent.do?event=581.

By Dax Ferguson - Well, fight fans, the fight of this decade is apparently going to happen. It’s not that often that two of the three greatest fighters on the planet have the opportunity to meet in the ring. Or that the three greatest fighters are all boxing in the very same weight division. Of course, I am referring to Sugar Shane Mosley, Floyd Money Mayweather and Manny Pacquaio.

I, for one, was really looking forward to seeing Manny and Floyd get it on; now it’s Shane and Floyd in what promises to be one of the most important welterweight fights of all time; and that is saying a lot when one remembers some of the great battles in that division in the last half of the century. One of the greatest battles was between all time great Kid Gavilan and unbeaten Gil Turner, who possessed at age 21 a 31-0 record with 25 KO’s and ex-champs Ike Williams and Beau Jack on his kayo roster. Gavilan triumphed in the 11 the round in a bout that drew 47,000 fans to the Philly arena back in July of 1952.

Then there were the epic battles pitting Gavilan vs Billy Graham and Carmen Basilio..

And for sheer tenacity and unbridled action, the two Carmen Basilio-Tony DeMarco battle royals are hard to top, both won on knockout by Carmen.

In more recent times, Sugar Ray Leonard played the starring role vs Wilfred Benitez in a boxing classic chess match won by Leonard with six seconds to go in the 15th round, which was a classic pre-mature stoppage. Leonard also figured in a couple other great welterweight matchups, against all tjme great Roberto Duran (twice) losing the first and winning the second when Duran turned away, saying “No Mas!” The best Leonard effort however was against the hard hitting unbeaten Tommy Hearns who took him to hell and back before he finally triumphed over the weight weakened Hit Man.

Those are some of the matches by which the Mosley-Mayweather fight will be judged by. It shows promise of being a great fight, based more on Mosley’s aggressive style than Mayweather’s slip and slide counterpunching persona.

It will be Mosley who will make this an exciting fight if it is indeed to be the classic that most boxing enthusiasts expect it to be.

Let’s match these two up potentially on paper:

Experience: Have to give Shane the nod here, as overall he has fought better fighters.

He has fought a prime DeLaHoya twice, winning the first with no doubt and a controversial close decision in the second. Lost twice to Vernon Forrest when Forrest was at his best. Styles make fights and Vernon had Shane’s number. Pity they never fought a third time, I believe Shane would have won. Shane has also fought Winky Wright twice and lost both. However, as in the Forrest fights, Shane came a lot closer in the second, losing a razor tight decision and having Winky in trouble in the final round. Shane also lost a razor thin decision to Miguel Cotto in a bout I felt he won by one round. Again, he came on strong in the final rounds.

Shane’s best win at welterweight undoubtedly was his virtual annihilation of Tony Margarito, a one sided beat down that left Margarito fans dumbfounded. Mosley twice hammered Fernando Vargas into submission, leaving no doubt who was the better man. He also culminated a tough fight with rugged, free swinging Ricardo Mayorga, who not incidentally stopped and decisioned Vernon Forrest in their two matches. Mosley has never turned down the best opponents which is more than can be said for Mayweather, who is well known for looking for soft touches. Mayweather’s most dominant fight was with Diego Corrales when he dropped Corrales five times but that was at 130 pounds and nine years ago. His credentials at 147 pounds are less than impressive. He stopped a used up Shamba Mitchell in six, rallied to beat Zab Judah, one of the best “four round” fighters in the world, shut out oft beaten Carlos Baldomir, barely edged Oscar DeLaHoya. Floyd had fits early with Judah, DeLaHoya and even plucky little Ricky Hatton until Hatton ran out of gas. His return to the ring match up with much smaller and much older Juan Manuel Marquez was a mismatch but feather fisted Floyd couldn’t even put him away, despite a quick knockdown in the second round.

Speed: Both these guys have the reflexes of a scalded cat. I would give Mayweather a slight edge but it would be very, very slight. I don’t see speed being a culminating factor either way.

Defense: Both are very hard to hit, Mayweather is about as elusive as a tumbleweed in a high Nevada wind storm. Mosley is a little more hittable but is no easy target.

Punching Power: If this matchup ends up in a fire fight, Mosley wins by knockout. Mosley is a deadly puncher. According to Joe Goosen, one of the best trainers in the business, his left hook to the body is totally devastating. Goosen claims Shane knocked out a sparring partner with 16 ounce gloves and that takes some doing.

Chin: Gotta go with Sugar Shane on this one. He’s been in with bigger and stronger punchers and has only been on the canvas once in his entire amateur and pro career encompassing well over 250 fights. Mayweather on the other hand has been rocked by DeMarcus Corley and Zab Judah. It’s my personal opinion that once a fighter who can punch finds a way to penetrate his shoulder roll defense, Mayweather will be exposed as having a china chin comparable to Roy Jones Jr. Shane just might be that guy.

Size and Strength: Mosley wins out on both counts. He is naturally a bigger man and is also a much stronger man. At one time Mosley was credited with being able to bench press well over three hundred pounds. In a case of push and shove, it’s Shane, hats down.

Stamina & Conditioning: These two will bring a new level of conditioning to the table. Both have the reputation of getting better and stronger the longer the battle goes. The difference being is that Shane as pointed is the bigger and stronger guy and I believe he will wear the smaller Mayweather down if it gets into a distance fight.

Bottom Line: I predict that Sugar Shane will prevail by a stoppage somewhere between the 9th and 12th rounds. Mosley will have a devastating answer for Mayweather’s shoulder roll on the ropes and he will pin Mayweather in this suddenly uncomfortable position with precision power punches, some of which will slip through Mayweather’s guard, evasive as it is. Mayweather is going to find Mosley an entirely different breed of fighter, a better, more skilled fighter than he has ever faced before and he will not have the answers to the challenge.

LOS ANGELES, February 8 - Unbeaten Philadelphia phenom Danny "Swift" Garcia will begin 2010 with his toughest fight to date on Friday, February 26 when he squares off against British veteran Ashley Theopane in the 10-round junior welterweight co-main event of ESPN's "Friday Night Fights" at the Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas. Also on the February 26 card - which is headlined by the 10-round featherweight battle between El Paso favorite Antonio Escalante and Juarez's Mickey Roman - will be bouts featuring top Texas prospects Jermell Charlo and Omar Figueroa, Mexico's Luis Enrique Grajeda and Uganda's Sharif Bogere..

"King of The Border": Escalante vs. Roman, which is presented by Golden Boy Promotions, will be broadcast live on ESPN's "Friday Night Fights" beginning at 10:00 pm ET / 8:00 pm MT / 7:00 pm PT on ESPN2, ESPN Deportes and ESPN360.com. Doors open at 6:00 pm MT, with the first bell ringing at 7:00 pm MT.

Tickets priced at $20, $30, $50 and $75 (plus convenience charges) are on sale now and available for purchase at the UTEP Box Office and all Ticketmaster Outlets. Tickets are also available online at www.ticketmaster.com and by phone through the UTEP Box Office at 915-747-5234 and Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000.

21-year old Philadelphia native Danny "Swift" Garcia (15-0, 10 KO's) is coming off a huge 2009 that saw him continue to rise up the junior welterweight ranks in impressive style. With a record of 4-0 last year against a quartet of opponents that had a combined 114 fights of professional experience, Garcia is ready for another groundbreaking year in 2010 beginning with his showdown against Theopane.

Born and raised in London, England, charismatic Ashley Theopane (25-3-1, 7 KO's) has paid his dues over the course of his six-year professional career and he's amped up for his ESPN2 fight against Danny Garcia. Unbeaten in 17 of his last 18 bouts dating back to 2005, Theopane is coming to Texas with victory on his mind.

Also on the show is a six-round welterweight bout featuring unbeaten prospect Luis Enrique Grajeda (8-0, 7 KO's) of Chihuahua, Mexico. Grajeda is a former amateur star who is on his way to even greater success in the professional ranks. In his last bout, on December 12, he halted 5-0 Ruben Amezcua in six rounds.

Proudly waving the Texas flag on February 26 will be Houston welterweight Jermell Charlo and Weslaco junior welterweight Omar Figueroa. The 19-year old Charlo (10-0, 5 KO's), who takes on Missouri's Travis Hartman (11-15-1, 8 KO's) in an eight round bout, has knocked out two of his last three opponents, including 6-0 Abdon Lozano in his most recent bout on December 12. 20-year old Figueroa (8-0, 8 KO's) has lived up to his nickname of "Panterita" with a fast and ferocious style that has ended all of his professional bouts in three rounds or less. He will face Julian Rodriguez (17-17-4, 11 KO's) of Ciudad Juarez Chihuahua, Mexico in a six round contest.

Also in action will be highly-touted Ugandan prospect Sharif Bogere (13-0, 7 KO's), who will take on Jose Hernandez (10-1, 4 KO's) of Fort Worth, Texas in a six-round junior welterweight bout.

In the evening's opening fight, El Paso's own Eric Bautista makes his professional debut against unbeaten Albuquerque knockout artist Michael Brooks (2-0, 2 KOs) in a four round cruiserweight bout.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and follow Golden Boy Promotions on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GoldenBoyBoxing.

Pensacola, FL, February 8, 2010 -- One day after the New Orleans Saints historic Super Bowl victory over the heavily favored Indianapolis Colts, Roy Jones Jr. reflected back to that August day he was invited to the Saints’ training camp by Head Coach Sean Payton and delivered a speech to the team, which turned into a pep talk for the upcoming season..

The theme of Roy’s speech was teamwork, “Each individual effort is wonderful, but the sum of all playing together as a team is greater.” The Saints began the season by winning their first thirteen games and, it seemed against all odds, became Super Bowl Champions.

“It means that God is still using me to deliver positive messages to people,” said Jones. “I am thankful I had the opportunity to tell the Saints there was no reason why they didn’t have the best team in the league and could go on to win the Super Bowl.”

“I am thrilled that the Saints are a part of bringing back the city of New Orleans after what the city has been through and has overcome so much,” said Jones, who had made numerous trips to the New Orleans area following Katrina to deliver supplies and even helped build a home. “The residents know that God is ever present in their life and is showing, through faith, that they can come back and be event better than they ever were before.”

The New Orleans Saints and the people of New Orleans are an inspiration to Roy in his upcoming April 3 fight against Bernard Hopkins. “This revelation shows me that even though things are rough it doesn't mean God doesn't have a greater plan for you. It reaffirms for me you have to maintain your faith and hope through it all…and if God is for you, nothing else has a chance!”

* * *

After 17 years the wait is over as sure-fire future Hall of Famers Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins and Roy “The Terminator” Jones Jr. collide in a long awaited rematch that will finally add the final chapter to their 17-year rivalry. The Rivals: Hopkins vs. Jones II is set for Saturday, April 3 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas . The bout will be broadcast live on pay-per-view beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

by Jenna J >-- Click here to listen to the show -- As always, this week's 59th edition of On the Ropes will start at its regularly scheduled time, 6pm Eastern Time. You can listen live by clicking “play” on the player or enter our chat on the blogtalk message board; you can also call into the show at (646)716-5404.

On the Ropes is is back to bring you the latest and greatest in the world of boxing! Join me Jenna J, the Hostess, along with my spectacular Producer, the amazing Geoffrey Ciani (aka-Rummy).

Topics for Discussion

· It’s official! Shane Mosley versus Floyd Mayweather, May 1
· Tomasz Adamek difficult victory against Jason Estrada
· The prospect of Adamek facing Chris Arreola in April based on the Estrada performance
· Glen Johnson’s impressive stoppage over Yusaf Mack
· Edwin Valero’s impressive knockout of Antonio DeMarco

“THE ROAD WARRIOR” HITS HALF-CENTURY MARK IN WINS, LOOKS FORWARD TO 2010 TITLE SHOT - HOLLYWOOD, FL, February 8 - It’s one of modern boxing’s most coveted milestones, and on Friday, February 5th, former world light heavyweight champion Glen Johnson his 50 wins in spectacular fashion, stopping fellow contender Yusaf Mack in six rounds at the NSU Arena in Fort Lauderdale to improve to 50-13-2 with 34 knockouts as a professional.

“This is a great moment for me and it came with a lot of hard work and dedication,” said Johnson. “What made it even better for me was that I was able to get this win in front of my family and friends in South Florida, the people who have been in my corner all these years..”

With the victory, which saw the 41-year old Johnson is prime form, he will now proceed to a 2010 title fight against IBF light heavyweight world champion Tavoris Cloud at a date and location to be announced.

“I’m looking forward to regaining the world title this year and making it one of the best years of my career,” said the popular ‘Road Warrior.’ “Tavoris Cloud is a solid, young fighter with a bright future that I respect - just like Yusaf Mack.”


Boxeo TELEMUNDO returns to Miccosukee February 19th

Miami, FL: The popular series of “Boxeo TELEMUNDO” will return to the Miccosukee Resort and Gaming in Miami, Florida on Friday, February 19, 2010.

In the main event former world title challenger William “Chirizo” Gonzalez of Managua, Nicaragua will face Jesus “Taquero” Vazquez of El Dorado,Sonora, Mexico in a bout schedule for 12 rounds with the WBO Latin vacant bantamweight title at stake.

Gonzalez is ranked #9 WBA #12 WB0 and #13 IBF, is 28 years old and brings a record of 23-3-20 KO’s. Vazquez is the former WBC Continental Americas Champion and brings a record of 19-3-1-17 KO’s. This is a classic battle between two power punching contenders.

Also former WBA World Champion Clarence “Bones” Adams (44-6-4-20 KO’s) of Henderson, Kentucky faces Mexican veteran Edel “Cuate” Ruiz (33-22-4-24 KO’s) with the vacant WBA NABA Featherweight title on the line.

Also in action in separate bouts undefeated prospects: Athens 2004 former Olympian Luis Franco of Cuba, undefeated prospect Xavier “X-Factor” Burgos of Miami, Patrick Teixeira of Brazil and Jose Torres of Homestead amongst others.

There will be a total of 8 fights schedule with the first bell at 8:30 PM. The event is being promoted by Tuto Zabala, Jr.and All Star Boxing, Inc. “The New Generation”. The Adams-Ruiz bout is in association with Sampson Boxing. The main event will be televised live at 11:35 PM by the Telemundo Network on HD.

Tickets are already on sale at the Miccosukee Resort and Gaming 500 SW 177 Ave., Miami, FL or by calling 1-800-741-4600 and at all www.ticketmaster.com Tel: (305)358-5885 or (954)523-3309.


Boxing's New Promotional Powerhouse: The Dawn of a Boxing "Empire"

Although he has previously kept a lower public profile, Greg Cohen, Founder and CEO of The Empire Sports and Entertainment Inc., has long been a major player in boxing.

The former majority owner of Cedric Kushner Promotions (CKP) and partner in Duva Boxing has been promotionally involved with a number of heavyweight champions and top contenders, including former WBO Champion Shannon "The Cannon" Briggs from the very first day of his pro career.

He's also had promotional ties to such boxing luminaries as Chris Byrd, Jameel McCline, David Tua, Hasim Rahman, Samuel Peter, Ike Ibeabuchi, Kirk Johnson, Larry Donald, Jesse "Boogieman" Ferguson and Oleg Maskaev, as well as future hall of famer "Sugar" Shane Mosley and former cruiserweight champion Alfred Cole.

So why did Cohen, along with his partner, well-known South Florida-based Venture Capitalist Barry Honig, decide to come out from behind the curtain and form The Empire?

"I view the boxing game right now as similar to the real estate market," he explains, "It's a great time for someone to step in and make something happen. The only major players are Golden Boy and Top Rank."

Cohen and Honig have already begun amassing an impressive roster of fighters including two of the most compelling and memorable heavyweight champions in recent history. "Shannon Briggs and Hasim Rahman are not only fighting for us, they're also business partners of mine. And they're both very noticeable and charismatic guys. In addition to being our first two marquee names as fighters, they'll also be recruiting new talent for our stable. I'm very excited about having them both aboard."

Briggs is fighting in the main event on March 16 at the Hard Rock in Hollywood, Florida.

The Empire also has its share of young and promising talent including an undefeated (21-0, 14 KOs) 23 year old from Queens, New York, who has already proven himself a bankable television commodity. "We've signed future world champion 'Mean' Joe Greene to a promotional agreement. He'll be fighting in late march early April."

"And we're very proud to announce we've signed several fighters from the Dominican National and Olympic Team including Juan Carlos Payano, the highest decorated amateur of all time from the Dominican. He lost by one point to (current WBA Featherweight Champion) Yuriorkis Gamboa in the Pan Am Games -- his life's mission is to avenge that loss.

Plus we've signed Jennefel Vicente (16-0, 10 KOs) and several other members of the Dominican Olympic and National Team. We're doing a series of shows with Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing at the Paradise Theater in the Bronx, New York, and we're going to have Payano and all the Dominican kids featured on the show."

A world-class roster needs world class trainers to put it over the top and Cohen says he's ecstatic at the two men who have agreed to join his team. Emanuel Steward of Detroit's Kronk Gym fame has signed on as The Empire's Director of Boxing and former light heavyweight champion, and now highly coveted trainer, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad will serve as Vice-President of Boxing Operations. "I can't think of two better trainers to have on staff," admitted Cohen. "In addition to their front-office jobs, they will evaluate talent and lend their formidable training skills to our fighters."

The Empire will look to do 20 to 30 shows per year and form strategic alliances with other promotional firms. Cohen says he's excited to be taking center stage and expects his company to take a top spot in the boxing promotional world. "What we're building at The Empire is very similar to what Golden Boy Promotions are doing.... only we're going to do it better!"


Chevelle Hallback’s Reprise

Reprise is a musical term, meaning “a repeated passage of music, or a return to an earlier musical theme.” Reprise also holds another definition as a transitive verb, meaning “take back or recover by force”. On March 26, Chevelle Hallback will return to Albuquerque, New Mexico to rematch Holly Holm, on the “Warrior Vengeance“ card, and this time, is looking to rewrite a passage in her career resume and soundly defeat the hometown heroine and multi world champion.

By all means, this is a tall order. Chevelle has not had a fight date since June 2008 in Albuquerque when she defeated Jeannine Garside to claim the IFBA lightweight crown. The Garside fight was a rousing ten round slug fest which saw Chevelle, the veteran and Jeannine, her challenger trade shot for shot- and steal the show from the Holm/Mary Jo Sanders main event. “The fight with Jeannine was a good fight,” Chevelle said. “She was a very tough fighter, took a lot of shots that almost had her out but she weathered the storm. Jeannine had decent power whenever she landed a punch and she fights with a lot of heart.’” A 21 month lay off, the same circumstance as when she faced Holm the first time looms before her now as she prepares for their next bout. Chevelle is aware of the issues surrounding this rematch. “My first fight with Holly was one of my worst performances for date,” Chevelle admitted. “I didn’t do anything in that fight but pretty much follow her the whole night. Holly is in superb shape and does very well keeping her opponent at bay. Other than ring rust and not being prepared for fighting at such a high altitude my major mistake was to follow her around the ring the whole night. Holly is very tough because the one good punch I was able to hit her with shook her up, but she came back stronger. She is a very conditioned, technical and disciplined fighter and that type of fighter will give anyone problems- and to top it all off,” Chevelle exclaimed, “She’s left handed!”

Chevelle has learned from her past mistakes in fighting Holly and is determined the outcome March 26 will be dramatically different, “You will see a VERY different fight this time around with Holly and I,” she promised. “I am in almost the same situation as I’ve not been in the ring in a while, but this time,” she continued, “ I have enough time to prepare for the altitude. I believe when I am in superb shape there is not one female fighter out there in my weight class or above my weight class that can beat me.”

Even though Chevelle’s career has been slowed because matches are difficult to find, she makes this promise for the Holm fight and the other fights she gets in 2010. “I plan to make a huge dent in female boxing not only for myself but for female boxing in general,” she said. “I am setting out to be one of the first female boxers to fight and be televised on HBO. With major exposure such as that, female boxing can not help but grow. Bottom line- female boxing needs mainstream exposure to survive and who better than myself to make it happen? I am on a mission and I will not stop until that mission is complete.”

Holly Holm has rematched three opponents- Terri Blair, Angelica Martinez and Mary Jo Sanders, winning all but the Sanders redo which was scored a draw. Chevelle is aware of the statistics, knowing everyone expects history to repeat itself and Holm to chalk up yet another victory. “That’s OK, she said. “I enjoy the role of the underdog. It makes me work harder and the victory that much sweeter.”

For more information on "Warrior Vengeance", headlined by Chevelle Hallback and Holly Holm, Friday, March 26 at the Isleta Resort Casino in Albuquerque, New Mexico call Fresquez Promotions, 505-884-7484

BERLIN (Feb. 8, 2010) — Tournament point leader King Arthur Abraham (31-0, 25 KOs) is on his way to America. The undefeated 29-year-old has boarded a plane to Los Angeles this morning. Coach Ulli Wegner is moving training camp to Palm Springs where Abraham will clash with Andre Dirrell in the second round of the Super Six World Boxing Classic on March 6. The fight takes place at the Agua Caliente Casino, Resort, Spa in Rancho Mirage, Calif., in greater Palm Springs, and is broadcast live on SHOWTIME® at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the west coast). “I am thrilled to return to America,” King Arthur said..

Ardley W. (North Miami Beach, FL): Edwin Valero's victory was pretty interesting. Did you think he lived up to the hype and the Pacquiao comparisons?

Vivek W. (ESB): I can now officially say this....."I'm a fan"! I have seen Valero on video quite a bit as I studied him in the past after hearing all of the buzz, but I must say, seeing him live did a little something for me. I don't see the Pacquiao comparisons, outside of the fact that both men are relatively small and have very good power, though. Actually, (as odd as this may sound), fundamentally, he showed a little more than Pacquiao at this stage of his evolution. He doesn't rely on his chin as much. Pacquiao, (similar to Mosley), will take a slew of shots to land a few. Valero was very much adept at slipping punches and he has that nifty move where he actually puts his off-hand up to cover his chin when he does it. What I noticed though - as it relates to him getting hit - when he does, he actually takes it very well. There was one misconception of him that I heard and feel compelled to speak on. It was stated that he was tired because he was "fighting with his mouth open". In breaking down footage, he has ALWAYS done this, but he never seems to wear down. I think in an odd way, it's just something he has grown accustomed to doing.. Overall, I must say, I was very impressed. His punch groups were very effective, he didn't make the mistake that many power punchers make trying to land hay-makers with every shot, he set them up, and he did a number of other things that showed me he has a great future. All of that, and I didn't even address the nasty cut that he fought through without blinking an eye (pun intended). So, I tip my hat to him. The lightweight division is one of the deepest in the sport, and his addition makes it even more fun to watch. Funeka and a few others would make for a great fight with him, but Arum has already began to eye Timothy Bradley, and that's a fight that I'd endorse at the drop of a dime. Great gauge match for both men. Now that he's the champ, I hope we see some of these fights.

Robert W. (Atlanta, GA): In my opinion, Floyd Mayweather jr. has been carefully matched his entire career. Many members of the media continue to preach about how "amazing" he is, and I think you're one of them. What do you see that so I don't?

Vivek W. (ESB): I think this observation goes back to the same principles that I always speak of. It all comes down to who you are, what you like, and who you like to listen to. I don't make a conscious effort to debate fight fans who feel the way you do, but in response to your question, I have one for you, first. Before the emergence of Pacquiao, who can you say, unequivocally, was the bona fide P4P king of the sport? If it was anyone other than Mayweather, I'd like to know who that person is and why you felt he was? The reason that I point that question out is because we all know that Mayweather is the man that everyone loves to hate. That's undisputed, even if you feel he isn't. Bearing that in mind, the emergence of Pacquiao and the hate for Mayweather make people quickly forget that EVERY scribe on the planet had Mayweather rated there, with Hopkins a very distant second for the longest. The reason that Mayweather has been replaced in the minds of many by Pacquiao has to do with his gutsy nature (which is subjective), and his resume (which is applicable), but neither have anything to do with pure fundamentals - which is why Mayweather held the position in everyones mind for so long. The reason that I took this approach in answering your question is because Mayweather earned that reputation, not only by having pure fundamentals, but by defeating a trail of fighters that we all obviously felt were pretty good - (or we would have never regarded him so highly). We can all dispute his welterweight tenure, but prior to that, Jesus Chavez (who I would say was equivalent to today's Clottey - being under the radar but clearly above the rim), an undefeated Hatton, an undefeated Corrales (RIP), Baldomir who had defeated Judah and was the lineal champion, Angel Manfredy, a young Corley, and the list goes on. I'm not quite sure how long you've followed the sport and I can respect you being a relative newcomer, but before the welterweight division, Mayweather solidified his position as the sports P4P king in the minds of everyone asked.

Paul O. (Los Angeles, CA): Shane Mosley has admittedly used performance enhancing drugs in the past and few even mention it, yet Pacquiao has never been officially linked and has to walk around on eggshells. Why is Mosley allowed to continue fighting while Margarito was suspended and both are guilty of wrong-doings?

Vivek W. (ESB): The key to this whole scenario hinges on two things. For starters, Margarito was caught with his hands in the cookie jar.....literally; wherein with the Mosley case, (to my understanding), the time when he was using those substances, they weren't actually banned in the sport. They were still totally under the radar, and an investigation led to the discovery, and Mosley was honorable enough to testify on the matter. Now, the court of public opinion is what it is, which is why someone like Pacquiao who has NEVER been officially linked to substances can still find himself under great scrutiny, despite his official innocence until proven guilty. A great point of contention here is that the man whose allegations of usage was clearly confirmed has chose to support an effort to ensure clean competitors, (by way of randomized testing); while the man who is alleged to be using without proof has opted not to. Bottomline, as similar as the cases seem, they're actually the opposite. I say that in the sense that this all hinges on two varying perspectives. Pacquiao attempted to handle his matter in the 'court' that probably didn't really matter the most (legally), rather than addressing it in the court that may very well matter the most (public opinion). Mosley on the other hand handled his matter in the court that did matter the most (legally), leaving very little to talk about in the court that to him no longer matters the most (public opinion). Despite the heavy wordplay there, the lighter side of this topic is that both men (Mosley and Pacquiao) were (are) free to continue their respective careers wherein the true violator (Margarito) wasn't
so lucky.

Alton S. (Hallandale Beach, FL): Freddie Roach recently stated that he doesn't find Pacquiao to be the best fighter he has worked with, instead pointing to guys like Toney and Tyson. Is there still an underlying rift with Freddie Roach and Pacquiao that many of us felt had died down?

Vivek W. (ESB): I think this is another example of what makes Freddie, Freddie. There were times during the whole Mayweather/Pacquiao fiasco that I thought Roach left his integrity back in the gym, but I have always maintained that this is the most humble, sincere man you will find in the industry. I don't think for a second that he made this statement out of ill fate or anything out of sorts. I think it was a rather honest assessment, and one that Pacquiao himself has alluded to. In Tyson, you had a fighter who was once extremely fundamental, and even when he began to lose those fundamentals, his fierce nature, style, and pure mystique made him an instant threat that left opponents in fear. Never in the history of the sport have we seen a fighter win so many fights before he ever stepped in the ring. In James Toney, despite the extra
padding he wears around now days, I don't think anyone with true boxing knowledge can disagree that he is arguably one the most fundamental fighter fighters of all-time. As Roach stated himself, "the guy just knows how to fight". So when you look at the whole, not just an aggregate of it, the reality is that (to use Pacquiao's words) "If I compare myself to other [great] fighters, Manny Pacquiao is really not as good. I win because I am very dedicated, my relationship with God is close, and I focus and discipline myself". That sentence from his very own mouth attest to the fact that Pacquiao's ascent in the sport is largely based on heart, spirit, and effort. None of us can mistake that categorically, he is the undisputed leader in those areas. Fundamentals.....well, he gets hit a lot, has a tendency to throw looping punches (which worked against him against a precision puncher like Marquez), and does other things that fighters are taught not to do. That being
said, Roach was totally accurate in his assessment, and the only ones that fail to see that are the ones that look at the object rather than the big picture that holds it. Pacquiao is the most amazing specimen the sport has seen in years, but fundamentally, Roach only acknowledged what many already knew.

Harold R. (Norfolk, VA): What do you make of Shane Mosley saying that Margarito should get his boxing license back?

Vivek W. (ESB): To be perfectly honest, I found his rather unconditional support a bit mystifying as well. He's never taken a hard lined approach about Margarito's scenario one way or the other in the past, so perhaps we shouldn't feel this way because it's not like he suddenly changed. That being said, like yourself, I do struggle to comprehend why he has gone public with this support, considering that he was the one that would have been on the receiving end of this weapon had it not been for his trainer. To play devils advocate, I could remind fight fans that he had been a bit frustrated with GBP for quite a while for not securing him a marquee showdown prior to the Mayweather bout, and
decided to endorse Arum's guy as an under-the-table gesture supporting his alleged interest in crossing the fence. As intriguing as that sounds, it's purely speculative, but not a thought to be ruled out, totally in any way. Truth is, I'd like to say it was a number of other things, but aside from this speculation, nothing else makes sense. It's no secret that Mosley wasn't too happy, but this shot at Mayweather may be precisely what the doctor ordered.

(Vivek Wallace can be reached at vivexemail@yahoo.com, 954-292-7346, YouTube (VIVEK1251), Twitter (VIVEK747), Facebook, and Myspace).

Jaime Castro Núñez - Carlos Támara is Colombia’s newest champion of the world. By knocking out Brian “Hawaiian Punch” Viloria in the Philippines, the kid from Sincelejo, now living and training out of Bergen, NJ., has become Colombia’s 42th boxing champion of the world, being junior welterweight Antonio Cervantes “Kid Pambelé” the first one. Just for the sake of having fun with the statistics, I spent the last two weeks putting all the numbers together in order to analyze the sport of boxing in this part of the world. This is what I found.

Colombia entered into the boxing world scenario on October 28, 1972, in Panama, when 140-pounder Antonio Cervantes dethroned Alfonso “Peppermint” Frazer, becoming Colombia’s first champion ever.. Since then, other 41 Colombian boxers have reached the top.

Counting all boxing entities, the country of Colombia has had 42 beltholders. If we add the two female titlelist, Lely Luz Flórez and Darys Pardo, there are 44. However, if we only count champions in the four major entities, this is, WBA, WBC, IBF and WBO, the number goes down to 33, from Cervantes to Támara. If we add the two ladies, then it will be a total of 35. The nine boxers who have claimed belts EXCLUSIVELY in minor, new entities, are: Amancio Castro, Wilfrido Ruíz, Antonio Pitalúa, Ilido Julio, José Sanjuanelo, Newton Villarreal, José García-Bernal, Óscar León and Fulgencio Zúñiga.

Addicionaly, the country has had one amateur king, bantamweight Miguel Maturana, who obtained the gold medal at the World Championship held in Montreal in 1981. Cecilia “First Lady” Braekhus, current WBA-WBC titleholder, who was born in Cartagena, Colombia, is not counted among Colombian champions because she represents Norway, the country where she grew up. Cecilia, however, is news in our country whenever she fights. With that being said, we can summarize all of them as follows:

Summary of Colombian Champions
Men-Professional-All Entities: 42
Women-Professional: 2
Men-Women-Professional-All Entities: 44
Men-Professional-4 Major Entities: 33
Men-Women-Professional-4 Major Entities: 35
Men-Professional-Exclusively Minor Entities: 9
Men-Amateur: 1

In analyzing all champions by weight class, one can easily recognize that Colombia has not produced a single one in any of the following five divisions: Lightweight, Super Welterweight, Light Heavyweight, Cruiserweight or Heavyweight.

Junior Welterweight and Light Flyweight, with 9 (21.42%) and 7 (16.66%) champions, respectively, are the most popular. The nine junior welterweight boxers are: Antonio Cervantes, Rafael Pineda, Amancio Castro, Antonio Pitalúa, Ener Julio, Newton Villarreal, Carlos Maussa, Juan Urango and Ricardo Torres. The 108 pounders are: Mauricio Pastrana, Kermin Guardia, José Sanjuanelo, Beibis Mendoza, José García-Bernal, César Canchila and Carlos Támara.

At Flyweight, Prudencio Cardona, Fidel Bassa, Elvis Álvarez, Rodolfo Blanco, Francisco Tejedor, Mauricio Pastrana and Irene Pacheco, represent 16.66%. This division is followed by the Bantamweight, with 6 boxers: Miguel Lora, Jorge Eliécer Julio, Harold Mestre, Mauricio Pastrana, José Sanjuanelo and Yonnhy Pérez, representing 14.28%. The rest are represented as follows: Super Flyweight: 5 – 11.90%; Straw: 3 – 7.14%; Super Bantamweight: 3 – 7.14%; Super Featherweight: 2 – 4.76%; Middleweight: 2 – 4.76%; Super Middleweight: 2 – 4.76%; Featherweight: 1 – 2.38%, and 1 Welterweight, Tomás Molinares, famous for knocking out Marlon Sterling in 1988.

When it comes to the entities where they have reigned, the IBF stands first with 14. 74% of all Colombian titleholders have reigned in the 4 major entities and 26% in the minor ones.

Colombian champions by Entity
IBF 14 – 28%
WBA 12 – 24%
WBO 7 – 14%
IBO 7 – 14%
WBC 4 – 8%
IBA 4 – 8%
IBC 2 – 4%

IBF Champions by Weight Class
Super Flyweight -115- Juan Polo-Pérez, Harold Grey.
Junior Welterweight -140- Rafael Pineda, Juan Urango.
Flyweight -112- Rodolfo Blanco, Francisco Tejedor, Irene Pacheco.
Bantamweight -118- Harold Mestre, Yonnhy Pérez.
Light Flyweight -108- Mauricio Pastrana, Carlos Támara.
Straw -105- Miguel Barrera, Daniel Reyes.
Super middleweight -168- Alejandro Berrío.

WBA Champions by Weight Class
Junior Welterweight -140- Antonio Cervantes, Carlos Maussa.
Super Bantamweight -122- Ricardo Cardona, Luis Mendoza.
Flyweight -112- Fidel Bassa, Elvis Álvarez, Mauricio Pastrana.
Welterweight -147- Tomás Molinares.
Bantamweight -118- Jorge Eliécer Julio.
Light Flyweight -108- Beibis Mendoza, César Canchila.
Super Featherweight -130- Likar Ramos.

WBO Champions by Weight Class
Flyweight -112- Elvis Álvarez.
Featherweight -126- Rubén Darío Palacios.
Bantamweight -118- Jorge Eliécer Julio.
Straw -105- Kermin Guardia, Daniel Reyes.
Light Flyweight -108- Kermin Guardia.
Junior welterweight -140- Ener Julio, Ricardo Torres.

IBO Champions by Weight Class
Super Flyweight -115- Mauricio Pastrana, Ilido Julio.
Junior Welterweight -140- Ener Julio, Newton Villarreal.
Light Flyweight -108- José Sanjuanelo, José García-Bernal.
Bantamweight -118- José Sanjuanelo.
Super Middleweight -168- Fulgencio Zúñiga.

WBC Champions by Weight Class
Middleweight -160- Rodrigo Valdés.
Flyweight -112- Prudencio Cardona.
Bantamweight -118- Miguel Lora.
Super Flyweight -115- Baby Rojas.

IBA Champions by Weight Class
Junior Welterweight-140- Antonio Pitalúa.
Super Flyweight -115- Mauricio Pastrana.
Bantamweight -118- Mauricio Pastrana.
Super Bantamweight -122- Óscar León.
Middleweight -160- Fulgencio Zúñiga.

IBC Champions by Weight Class
Junior Welterweight -140- Amancio Castro.
Super Featherweight -130- Wilfrido Ruíz.

Now let us examine both the first kids who claimed a belt and the order of the weight class in which those belts were claimed at. At Welterweight, Antonio Cervantes was the first champion. A Middleweight, Rodrigo Valdés, was Colombia’s second champion and the first one in the 160 pounds. The third and fourth champions were brothers, a unique case in our country, Ricardo and Prudencio Cardona, the former as Super Bantamweight and the later as Flyweight. The other 12 “first champions” according to their weights, are:

First Champions by Weight Class
Bantamweight -118- Miguel Lora.
Super Flyweight -115- Baby Rojas.
Welterweight -147- Tomás Molinares.
Featherweight -126- Rubén Darío Palacios.
Super Featherweight -130- Wilfrido Ruíz.
Light Flyweight -108- Mauricio Pastrana.
Straw -105- Kermin Guardia.
Super Middleweight -168- Alejandro Berrío.

World Champions by Departments
The country has 32 Departments –the equivalent of a Province in Canada or State in the USA-. According to their geographical position, they belong to one of the following five regions: Caribbean, Andean, Amazonia, Orinoquia and Pacific Coast. While soccer is the sport of the Andean zone, boxing is practiced mainly in the Caribbean Departments: San Andrés y Providencia, Guajira, Valledupar, Magdalena, Atlántico, Sucre, Bolívar and Córdoba. 85% of all Colombian champs come from the Caribbean zone. Bolívar, which has a long boxing tradition, has had 16 beltholders (38.09%), followed by Córdoba, with 9 monarchs who represent a good 21.42%. The third place is occupied by Atlántico with 5 (11.90%). Sucre and Antioquia, with 4 champions, represent the 9.52% each. The list ends with 2 guys from Magdalena -4.76%- and both Nariño and Valle with one champion each. Antioquia belongs to the Andean zone and Nariño and Valle to the Pacific.

World Champions by Cities
Cartagena: 9 – 21.42%. Rodrigo Valdés and Yonnhy Pérez are the most representative.
Montería: 5 – 11.90%. Miguel Lora, Juan Urango, Antonio Pitalúa.
Barranquilla: 4 – 9.52%. Tomás Molinares.
San Basilio de Palenque: 3 – 7.14%. Antonio Cervantes and the Cardona brothers.
San Onofre: 3 – 7.14%. Luis Mendoza and Rafael Pineda.
El Retén: 2 – 4.76%. Fidel Bassa.
16 other cities, such as Medellín, Sincelejo, Lorica and Cereté, have had only one champion and complete the other 38.08%.

James DeGale says fighting at home for the first time on Saturday means he'll get a perfect preparation - a cup of tea and an afternoon in front of the telly. DeGale, the 2008 Olympic middleweight champion, boxes at Wembley Arena on February 13, his first fight in London since his success in Beijing. For his five previous professional outings, DeGale has boxed up and down the country - but is now relishing his big home coming on Frank Warren's Night of the Champions. "I can't wait to show all my fans, friends and family just what I can do," said the 23-year-old.

"And what's even better is that I can put my feet up in my own front room on the day of the fight..

"The most stress I'll get will be making a cup of tea at home, and if I want to I can even walk to the venue!"

Meanwhile DeGale, who is 5-0 as a professional, has revealed that he's been sparring HEAVYWEIGHTS in a bid to get in shape for opponent Matthew Barr.

"I had a great training camp working with two of the country's best heavyweights, Danny Williams and John McDermott," said DeGale.

"They've been hitting me with all they have got but I've taken their best shots and come firing back. It will definitely stand me in good stead on Saturday night and then as I move up in class."

The super-middleweight added that he is targeting a title by the end of 2010, with the English, British and Commonwealth belts at 168 pounds firmly in his sights.

"I'm looking for a big year, five or six fights and a title as well," said DeGale. "I'm ready to make that step up and start boxing over 10 and 12 rounds."

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Mendoza Out To Punish Mitchell

Hitman Ignacio Mendoza has been taking tips from fellow countryman Breidis Prescott ahead of his clash with Kevin Mitchell. The Colombian, who is now based in Spain, tackles unbeaten Mitchell in a WBO Intercontinental lightweight title fight on February 13 at Wembley Arena on Frank Warren's Night of the Champions. And he has vowed to avenge the defeat Mitchell inflicted on Prescott back in December. "Mitchell dented my country's pride when he beat our national hero Breidis Prescott who destroyed Amir Khan," said 26-year-old Mendoza.

"I will be out for revenge when we meet at Wembley and I will do to Mitchell what Breidis did to Khan,"

"Breidis said to me that he didn't perform as he should have against Mitchell and has told me of his weaknesses.

"Prescott fought the wrong fight against Mitchell and tried to land one big punch and Mitchell outboxed him, but that won't happen with me.

"I plan to rough him up a bit more and try and match him blow for blow and wear him down."

Mendoza turned professional in his native Colombia in 2002 before moving to Spain, and he now has stopped 18 out of 34 opponents.

And he says that victory over Mitchell will be a big break through in his professional career.

"If I win then I can get a world title shot," he said. "I take a lot of heart from the what happened when Prescott fought Amir Khan.

"Khan was supposed to be on the verge of a world title opportunity that night and Prescott was going to get knocked out, but looked what happened. I can do the same against Mitchell."

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Chisora vs Baker at Wembley

Derek Chisora will tackle Carl "The Fridge" Baker on February 13 at Wembley Arena in an eliminator for the British heavyweight title. Baker holds a win over Danny Williams, who pulled out of a clash with Chisora last week. Del Boy appears to be a man that few domestic heavyweights fancy facing, after English champion Tyson Fury headed to America rather than take on his UK rival. But Baker, who beat Williams in last year's Prizefighter tournament, has stepped up to the plate and is vowing to end Chisora's unbeaten record.

However the Finchley hero, who will fight near his north London home, says that won't happen.

"Baker's going to be tough, but I'm ready to knock him out and show I'm the best in Britain," stormed Chisora.

"I'm disappointed that I won't be fighting for the British title against Williams, but my promoter Frank Warren has worked hard to make sure that this fight is an eliminator for the Lonsdale belt.

"I'll get my hands on it later this year, and having to wait now will make it all the sweeter when I finally get to lift it.

"I'm just glad that someone had the bottle to face me in the end.

"Williams claimed he was injured, while Fury's got a big mouth but no guts to back it up. He's so scared of me I'm suprised he didn't go all the way to Australia.

"Full respect to Baker for agreeing to the fight, but there's only one winner, and that's me."

Baker, a 28-year-old southpaw from Sheffield who has previously won the British heavyweight title, insists that he will emerge victorious.

"Chisora's an exciting young prospect but beating Williams had give me a massive confidence boost," he said.

"I'm always in training, and although I've been given this fight at short notice, I'll be in great shape on the night. I'm not coming to London to make up the numbers.

"It's always been my dream to win the British title and I'll be a step closer once I've knocked out Chisora."

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By Steve Fradkin - Floyd Mayweather told Jim Rome on ESPN this week that "Manny wouldn't take a $25 million drug test. I'm trying to clean up sports, make a change... You don't start off your career as average, and then after your turn 25, become extraordinary... All we want is for Pacman to take a $25 million dollar drug test, and we got a fight."

Was Pacquiao really just average before he turned 25?

Was he average when he took two titles in the flyweight division? Was he average when he KO'd Lehlohonolo Ledwaba on HBO as a late sub for a super bantamweight title in 2001?

He was certainly one-handed and one-dimensional back then, but there was nothing average about his speed, power, endurance, desire, and ferocity. Besides, how many average fighters win multiple titles in multiple divisions as Pacman had done by the age of 23?

This is when Freddy Roach started training him. This is when they began to fix his flaws and make him a complete fighter. This is when they activated his right hand. This is when Manny began his string of undeniably extraordinary accomplishments that, arguably, by themselves overshadow Floyd's accomplishments.

Manny won two other titles in the super bantamweight division, two titles in the featherweight division, and five titles in the super featherweight division against at least three first ballet hall-of-famers. Then he moved up and took titles in the lightweight, junior welterweight, and welterweight divisions. Floyd implies that these extraordinary accomplishments starting two years after meeting Roach are the result of cheating and not the result of hard work and sound training.

But remember, nobody accused Manny of cheating when he twice beat Marco Antonio Barerra. Nobody mentioned PED's and Pacquiao in the same sentence when he drew with, then beat, Juan Manuel Marquez. No one said steroids or any other illegal power pellet when Pacman first lost to, then twice beat, the great Erik Morales. No one said anything about illegal substances when Manny crushed David Diaz and Oscar De La Hoya. All they said was that Daiz was slow and Oscar was shot.

In fact, nobody accused Manny of cheating until he conquered the division in which Mayweather wasted so much time. And then who stepped up to accuse Manny of cheating? Mayweather's Daddy! And now Mayweather, Jr., himself is running around casting doubts on Pacman's best accomplishments, claiming that everything Manny's done that deserves Hall of Fame consideration is suspect.

There are probably very few people in Jim Rome's audience who follow boxing. Most are probably hearing about Manny Pacquiao for the first time. To those people, Floyd's words may make sense, which means Floyd is damaging the reputation of a man that these people are just getting to know. But to those of us who do follow boxing, Floyd is talking junk. Pacquiao has been an extraordinary fighter for a very, very long time.

At the start, Manny hid metal in his shorts to make the minimum 106 pounds for the straw weight division. He was a malnourished teen fighting grown men for a handful of pesos. Yet he was still a ferocious dynamo with a lethal left hand. By the time he met Roach, he was an anything-but-average multi-division champion. And then Roach helped fix his flaws and took him to the highest levels.

Floyd sees that Manny has stolen his shine. Manny won Fighter of the Year, again. Manny won Fighter of the Decade. Manny won KO of the year. And Manny is almost universally recognized at the P4P king. But rather than make his own shine brighter, Floyd is doing everything in his power to dull Manny's shine in the eyes of the American public.

I'm not saying that boxing's drug screening doesn't need to be tightened because it does. What I'm saying is that Floyd should not slander his rival to get those reforms. It makes him look small, slefish, and jealous instead of unselfishly concerned about the integrity of the sport.

by James Slater - Crowd-pleasing 29-year-old Adam Richards of Houston, Texas, got the title fight opportunity he has been craving since childhood yesterday, when he signed the contract to fight WBO cruiserweight champion Marco Huck in Germany on March 13th. Unbeaten as a 200-pounder, the 23-2(15) warrior who is better known to fights fans by his nickname of "Swamp Donkey," is already training for his big opportunity and he is ready to give his all in the ring in Germany.

A good amateur, Richards turned pro at heavyweight in March of 2001, and back in April of last year, after a thrilling but losing battle with Chazz Witherspoon, he dropped down to 200-pounds, where he has won two straight..

Very kindly taking the time to speak with me over the phone yesterday evening (along with his manager, Chris Rowland) "The Swamp Donkey" had the following answers to my questions:

James Slater: Thanks for taking the time to speak with me, Adam. First of all, congratulations on getting the March 13th fight with Marco Huck, you must be thrilled?

Adam Richards: Oh, yes sir. All the time when I was growing up, it's been my dream to win a world title. It's a dream come true this fight happening - it's a dream come true and a blessing.

J.S: Is Huck a fighter you've watched a lot, have you been studying him, making mental notes, etc?

A.R: Since this fight was first brought up, yes, I've been watching his fights, on You Tube and on tape. I have been taking mental notes, as you said, to pick up things that I will be able to use when I fight him. I've been doing my homework, that's for sure.

J.S: And when did you know for sure you had the fight?

A.R: It took until yesterday (Friday) to get the fight properly locked down. It was a done deal at around 10.30 last night. Now I'm getting myself prepared to do battle.

J.S: For those fans who haven't seen you fight before, how would you describe your style?

A.R: I'm a come forward guy. I never run from a fight with anyone. I like to fight in the centre of the ring, and I hope that's how Huck will fight me - like in a phone booth, as they say. If I have my way, it will be up close and personal with Huck!

J.S: Will this be your first fight in Germany?

A.R: As a pro, yes, but as an amateur I fought in a lot of different countries. I fought in Germany, Greece, Canada. I had good experience as an amateur, boxing on the Junior Olympic team. (Richard's is a former four-time National Amateur champion, as well as a former Junior Olympic champion, at heavyweight).

J.S: Are you excited or nervous about going to Germany for this big fight?

A.R: I never really get nervous before a big fight; if anything having a big fight makes me do better - I do my best when the fight's big, it brings out the best in me. I've travelled with Evander Holyfield in the past, too. I worked with him for all of his comeback fights (from 2006 until the title fight with Sultan Ibragimov in 2007) apart from the title fight - where he needed to work with southpaws. We're still close; he calls me and I call him from time to time, for advice. He's been a good mentor to me.

J.S: Obviously, this fight with Huck is a step up in class for you, but how big a step? One you are definitely ready to take?

A.R: It is a step up, but mentally and physically I'm totally ready for it. This is the biggest fight of my career, of course, but at the same time, it's just another day in the gym. He [Huck] fights just like me; he's a smaller version of myself.

J.S: I notice on BoxRec, you fought as high as the 250's at one time; have you worked the weight off slowly but surely?

A.R: My weight has ranged from 260 to around 204, 205. My weight fluctuated because I was into power lifting at one time, and my weight has gone up and down. I feel better as a cruiserweight, I'll be the bigger, stronger guy as a cruiserweight. I've lost none of my strength, I've just lost body fat. I feel so much better at this weight - I'm making moves I haven't made in a long time, my reaction time is on point and I've been working with speed and conditioning. My defence has improved in camp also, working with my trainer Ronnie Shields.

J.S: Shields is certainly a great trainer. How long have you been with Ronnie?

A.R: Roughly six years. Yes, Ronnie is definitely one of the best, and I know you have to train with the best to get where you want to go. He can take me far, as this [fight Vs. Huck] is not Ronnie's first time at the rodeo at all.

J.S: I read on ESPN.com how your promoter feels the fight between you and Huck will be an all-out war! Is that your mindset, what you are expecting as well?

A.R: Of course. Huck usually fights like me, and it will be two bulls coming right at each other. I can't say for sure it will be a war, but if it is I'm ready for it. I'm training for a war.

J.S: Do you have a favourite punch, a money punch?

A.R: Every punch is my favourite punch. I'm dominant in both hands and I like to throw bunches of punches - with anything from two to six-punch combinations, with four or six of the punches being power punches.

J.S: Just touching on your two pro defeats, the fights with Kevin Petty (TKO by 3, in third pro bout) and Chazz Witherspoon (TKO by 8, in Nov. of 2008). What happened there?

A.R: Oh, that fight [with Petty] never should have happened! I was with the wrong people back then and they put me in that fight with a cracked sternum and a cracked rib. He hit me with a haymaker in the chest and the cracked rib became a broken rib. It really is a blessing that I'm still fighting. The doctors told me after that fight that I was really lucky the rib didn't go through my lung. But you learn from your mistakes and you move on. The fight with Chazz Witherspoon, yes, I lost that fight, but I feel like I won the war. You know, if I lose I wanna go out blazing, and he never put me down, he never stopped me. I got a loss, but he got a broken jaw, and now I've got myself a world title fight. (at this point in the interview, Adam's manager, Chris Rowland added some info regarding the loss to Witherspoon) "Adam was also ahead on all the cards at the time of the stoppage. He just got caught, and that can happen to anyone at times."

J.S: I never knew you broke Witherspoon's jaw!

A.R: Yeah, I'm a country boy and we're known to hit a little more than hard!

J.S: When will you fly to Germany?

Chris Rowland: We're still looking at certain things like that, the fight was only signed at 10-30 last night. We're setting it all up now, as far as who Adam will spar with and when we'll leave for Germany. But he'll be sparring as early as Monday (tomorrow). We'd rather not say who he'll be sparring with, but we have three guys in mind, all top quality guys who are the same height as Huck and who will help Adam get prepared for March.

A.R: Yes, and I just want to say, I'm thrilled at this chance. I'm pushing myself harder than ever in training. I ran seven miles this morning, and then had a full workout in the gym. I'm looking to bring the title home with me - it's mine for the taking! Since I was a kid, I've had two dreams - to win an Olympic medal and to win a world title. I lost out on going to the Olympics by two points in the final of the Olympic trials, but now I have the world title opportunity. For real, I've wanted nothing more than this in my whole life.

C.R: At this time I'd also like to say thank you to Marco and to the Sauerlands for this opportunity. They know Adam is a tough opponent, who will come to win and we appreciate this chance. The Sauerlands have been great to work with, very good people who are very professional.

J.S: Well, it's been great speaking with you both. Best wishes for the fight, Adam - we look forward to an exciting fight. before you go, I have to ask - how did you get the nickname Swamp Donkey!

A.R: (laughs) Everyone asks me that. You know, most people who know me call me Swamp, they don't even know my real first name. It's very hot and humid down here in Houston, Texas and one day, after working out on the mat, I was soaked in sweat and I was told I looked like I'd just crawled out of a swamp. It started as a joke, and I said how I punch like a donkey kicks - so, just for smiles, we got Swamp Donley put on some green shorts and the name just stuck. The people like it, they chose to keep it, not us. It's catchy and people love it. So for this fight, I'll have Swamp Donkey on my green shorts once again.

by James Slater - It seems there is a good chance the debate will continue regarding the scoring of last night's heavyweight rumble between Tomasz Adamek and Jason Estrada. Very much a case of take your pick, some fans feel the Polish tough guy deserved his points win, while others felt the fight was extremely close and could have gone either way - with maybe a draw being a fair result. One thing is clear, the 118-110 score one judge handed in after the 12-rounds that Adamek won via a UD was another case of poor officiating.

Geoffrey Ciani, in his fine piece of work below, has already covered last night's bout from all bases, but I wanted to add my thoughts about where each fighter goes from here. Angry at the decision going against him, especially by such a wide margin on that last card, 29-year-old Estrada would no doubt like a rematch, but on neutral ground - what with last night's venue of Newark, New Jersey very much being 33-year-old Adamek's hometown. But what real chance does "Big Six" have of getting a return with "Goral?" Slim and none, as the saying goes..

It may be unfair, but Estrada, who fought arguably the best fight of his now 16-3(4) pro career, has a good chance of being left out in the cold, with no big fight to look forward to. Adamek, on the other hand, will almost certainly sign up for his already-in-discussions clash with Chris Arreola. Talked about for April 24th, Adamek-Arreola looked a very tough fight for the former 175 and 200-pound titlist before last night's bout - based on how Estrada was able to push him back, catch him with some clean shots and make things most uncomfortable for him, Adamek looks set to have another hard night against the much harder-hitting "Nightmare."

Though Arreola is not as good a boxer as is Estrada, his raw power, good chin and more aggressive approach figure to be too much for Adamek; in my opinion anyway. Make no mistake, the fight, if it indeed happens, will almost certainly be an exciting contest, but it has the look of a most winnable fight for the approx 255-pounder from Riverside, California.

But win or lose, Adamek, with his huge fan base eager to buy tickets, will be rewarded with a big payday. And as hard as he fights and as much of himself he gives in the ring, the 40-1 warrior deserves it - even if you don't think he deserved last night's unanimous decision victory. And, though he was nowhere close to making good his prediction of a stoppage win last night and though his performance was a disappointment in some eyes, Adamek remains a welcome addition to the heavyweight ranks.

Looking solid at 220-pounds, Adamek showed good stamina as a heavyweight, and his hand speed remains above average. But the Pole was hit and hit quite frequently by Estrada - so much so that it's probable Arreola is eagerly looking forward to getting in the ring with him. Adamek is still growing into his new weight class, and after just two fights up at heavyweight he may well improve; therefore we shouldn't be too hard on him and his chances of success shouldn't be based on last night's fight alone.

But Estrada, who says he was robbed, at the very least made a number of fans think twice about Adamek and his chances against the Hayes and the Klitschkos and the Arreolas of the world.

If I were to make a prediction right now, I'd have to say Adamek loses to all four fighters I've mentioned above. However, as Adamek said himself last night, it will be fun finding out for sure!

By G. M. Ross – It was a busy Saturday night for Canadian boxing fans, with cards at the Montreal Casino, in Montreal, Quebec, and the Shaw Conference Centre, in Edmonton, Alberta. Some of the nation’s top boxers, including David Lemieux, Jason Naugler, Herman Ngoudjo, Jason DeLaronde, Omar Valdez, James Cermak and Adam Trupish, were in action, accompanied by three Canadian newcomers.

At the Montreal Casino, GYM promotions provided yet another excellent night of fights, featuring a showdown for the Canadian super middleweight title between the undefeated knockout machine David Lemieux of Montreal and former Canadian light heavyweight champion Jason Naugler of Bridgewater, Nova Scotia. Naugler came into the contest riding a four fight losing streak, including his first ever knockout defeat at the hands of Chicago prospect Don George.. Lemieux, on the other hand, was coming off a December victory over Delray Raines of Arkansas for the WBC youth intercontinental middleweight crown, and had successfully scored knockouts/ technical knockouts over all twenty of his previous opponents. On Saturday night Lemieux continued his winning ways, but for the first time in his career was unable to prevent the fight from going to decision. Lemieux battled the granite chinned Naugler for ten, hard rounds, but as Chad Dawson and Jesse Brinkley know all too well, putting Naugler down for the count is no easy task. Nonetheless, Lemieux earned a unanimous decision victory, with judges Richard DeCarufel, Jean Lapointe, Claude Paquette all scoring the fight 100-89, with the extra point coming by way of a knockdown.

In other action, Montreal’s own Herman Ngoudjo made his return to the ring after over a year of inactivity. This two time IBF light welterweight title challenger (against Malignaggi and Urango) met and defeated Mexican journeyman Silverio Ortiz, winning by technical knockout in the sixth of a scheduled eight rounds. Manolis Plaitis, also of Montreal, kept his undefeated record intact, scoring a six round unanimous decision over Mexican knockout artist Jhonny Navarette. A rematch between Plaitis and Tebor Brosch of Etobicoke via Mississauga, Ontario, to settle their draw last December, would surely generate some buzz in central Canadian boxing circles. For a rematch to occur, however, Brosch will first have to get past undefeated Calgary prospect Steve Claggett on February 13 at the Shaw Conference Centre in Edmonton, Alberta.

Other bouts at the Montreal Casino included a victory for undefeated welterweight Kevin Bizier of Saint-Emile, Quebec, over Michael Springer of Toronto, Ontario. There were two debuts on the card. Heavyweight Taffo Asongwed of Montreal lost his initial professional appearance against Wayne John, of the same city, via a four round unanimous decision. Finally, Samuel Vargas of Ontario made a successful debut in the welterweight division, scoring a second round TKO over Todd Furler of Calgary, Alberta.

In Edmonton, Alberta, Alliance Promotions provided an action packed card headlined by undefeated Canadian light heavyweight Jason DeLaronde and hard hitting Missouri journeyman Steve Walker. It was DeLaronde’s stiffest challenge to date and the Edmonton native rose to the occasion, handing the considerably more experienced Walker a TKO loss in the fourth of a scheduled eight round affair. The loss drops Walker to 23-24-0.

In a six round bout, Omar Valdez of Edmonton, Alberta, ended Oklahomian Mike Dobb’s night early via a second round TKO. With the win Valdez improves his chances of being rematched with Tyson Cave of Halifax, Nova Scotia, this time for the Canadian super bantamweight title. Former Canadian Olympian Adam Trupish made his first six-round appearance, and remains undefeated, after scoring a TKO over Juan Sanchez of Halifax, Nova Scotia, in the third round. Look for Trupish to make a charge to the top of the Canadian middleweight division before the end of 2010, with fellow prospect Richard Reittie hot in pursuit.

In other action, Alston Brown of Halifax via Vancouver was sent to bed early when James Cermak finished their scheduled six round tilt by TKO in the first. This was Cermak’s fourth win in as many fights, moving his record to 15-2-0, making him a contender for the winner of the Ryan Henney-Frank White, Canadian cruiserweight title contest, taking place on February 13 in Edmonton. Last but not least, congratulations to super featherweight C.J. Borden of Alberta on his successful debut against fellow Albertan Dave McQuaker. Borden scored a knockout in the second round of a four round contest.

by Geoffrey Ciani @ Ringside - Despite his impressive victory against Andrew Golota there were a lot of questions surrounding cruiserweight champion Tomasz Adamek’s jump to the heavyweight division. Against Golota, Adamek looked impressive and made relatively quick work of his fellow Pole. Golota, however, was a shell of his former self far removed from the days when he twice battered former undisputed champion Riddick “Big Daddy” Bowe. Golota was painfully slow and unable to mount a serious offensive attack. As a result, the much quicker Adamek was able to have his way with Golota who did his best impression of a walking heavy bag before succumbing to Adamek’s firepower in round five.

Adamek’s second test at heavyweight came in the form of Jason Estrada last night at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The 10,123 in attendance were overwhelmingly pro-Adamek, but despite constant cheers from the fans clad in red and white this was a tough fight for Adamek. Estrada proved to be a formidable foe and was able to give just as well as he took. Most of the rounds were extremely close and very difficult to score. Adamek was the busier man, but for the most part, Estrada was landing the cleaner harder blows. Through the first six rounds Estrada had tremendous success countering Adamek’s right with a left hook that never seemed to miss the mark. Despite this success, however, Adamek still seemed to be winning at the halfway point based on activity.

Estrada-Adamek Post Fight Press Conference Audio:


Rounds seven and eight belonged to Adamek. By this point in the fight, Adamek had made an adjustment which prevented Estrada from countering with his left hook as effectively.. In round nine, however, Estrada began coming on stronger and made a counter adjustment that created openings for his right. Adamek started becoming uncharacteristically passive which may have further emboldened Estrada who even appeared to hurt Adamek during the tenth after landing a big right hand. Momentum seemed to be shifting in Estrada’s direction, but then in the eleventh, Adamek regained control by being busier and throwing combinations. The last round was another close one that probably could have gone either way.

By Dick Landis: Tommy Hill's Red Leather Promotions staged a mixed bag of fisticuffs Saturday evening at the Bette Rae Thomas Recreational Center in Charlotte, NC. The agenda featured four pro boxing contests along with five amateur mixed martial arts battles.

Among the sizeable fight crowd was a large contingent of fans showing their support for popular lightweight prospect Dominic DeSanto of Spencer, NC. Fighting up in class, DeSanto made it a quick night's work landing with crackling right and left hooks to score a second round TKO at 2:23 over Tabron Farmer of Wilson, NC.. DeSanto, the current North Carolina junior welterweight champion, exhibits the skills and speed to make some noise in the sport. A southpaw, DeSanto (4-0-1, 4K) is just 20 following an amateur career of over 100 fights.

In a scheduled six rounds, Brooklyn's Joselito Collado showed quickness switching leads to outbox Knoxville's tiny (5'1) but durable Leshaun Blair in a featherweight contest. Scored 60-54 by all three judges, the rapid firing, well-conditioned Collado remained undefeated (10-0, 3K), while Blair slipped to 4-21, which is not indicative of how hard he fought.

Two other boxing bouts were featured: At welterweight, Sumpter, SC.'s Jared Robinson boxed effectively and quickly to score two first round knockdowns over La'Javis Manning of Wilmington, NC. before it was stopped seconds later. Robinson picked up his second pro win, both knockouts, against no defeats. Manning is now 0-2.

In an interesting scheduled six rounds, two big men took the measure of each other. Kevin "Big Man" Burnett, 6'7, 290, made Joseph Rabotte look much smaller than he is at 6'2, 250. Burnett, from Augusta, GA., was ponderous, stalking the on-the-move Rabotte, who usually waited for the bigger man to jab and fire off just one punch at which time Rabotte would lunge in a land combinations. Burnett's problem was that he didn't let his hands go, seemingly content to stalk and unload one big KO punch. But Rabotte used the ring, constantly on the run, yet countered enough to finally score a split decision victory. Rabotte of Myrtle Beach, SC. is still behind in the wins column at 6-11, while Burnett is now 13-3-1.

Earlier in the evening, five amateur MMA contests featured for the most part young men making their debut in this fast-growing sport. With each contest scheduled for three rounds, the opening fight witnessed a dominating attack by Albermarle, NC.'s J.J. "Blitz Krieg" Brantley whose punching and groundwork had Russell Bailey hanging on after two rounds. Bailey rallied in the third round but it wasn't enough as the Winston-Salem, NC. fighter (1-1) lost on the scorecards to Brantley (2-0).

Two big men, James Bunn, 6'3, 253, of Raleigh, NC. faced off versus Roscoe Duncan, 5'11, 261, of Greenville, NC., who appeared to be lacking in physical fitness, was overwhelmed and out-worked by Bunn. Finally, hard punches to the head floored Duncan where he stayed for quite a few minutes while medical personnel examined him. Bunn makes good in his debut and Duncan loses his opener.

A junior middleweight clash saw Justin Vaughan of Monroe, NC. put a rear-naked-choke (tapout) on Irving Morel from Greenville, NC. (0-1) to end it at 1:28 of the first round. Vaughan is now 2-1. In two other contests, at welterweight, the very efficient and dominating fighting of Charlotte's Igor Tatarinov gave him the TKO win (2-0) at 2:14 of the second round against Lexington, NC.'s Tony Leonard (0-1). The MMA portion of the program ended with Buffalo, NY.'s Kevin Forant (3-0) winning an arm-bar submission at 2:04 of the first round over Greenville's James Jones Jr. (0-1) in a middleweight contest.

By John G. Thompson: Edwin “Dinamita” Valero 27-0 (27 KO’s) put on a career defining performance in defending his WBC Lightweight Title and forcing Antonio DeMarco 23-2-1 to quit on his stool before the start of the tenth round. No one should misunderstand what happened as the Venezuelan champion showed brilliance against a very game, yet outclassed opponent in the young Mexican warrior. This was not simply a case of a young fighter being exposed, but an example of what happens when a very good fighter meets a great one.

Warming up the crowd in exciting fashion, Luis Carlos Abregu 29-0 (23 KO’s) earned a tough fought unanimous decision against Richard Gutierrez 24-4-1. After a somewhat close first round, Gutierrez almost pulled an upset in the second, knocking Abregu down. Abregu had just thrown a hard right which was blocked by the guard of Gutierrez, and was following it up with a left hook, when Gutierrez threw a vicious left hook of his own catching Abregu on the chin. Abregu’s knees buckled and he went down. Getting up on shaky legs Abregu managed to move and eventually regained his faculties, even landing shots of his own before the bell ended the round..

Abregu came out with something to prove in the third round and caught Gutierrez with an overhand right which wobbled Gutierrez, who appeared to put his glove down and touched the canvas, though the referee did not see it. Gutierrez waved Abregu in and Abregu obliged. Gutierrez landed an uppercut to the body; however, Abregu simultaneously landed a right uppercut and left hook combination which put Gutierrez down. Abregu swarmed Gutierrez with shots after he got up on unsteady legs, though somehow Gutierrez was able to land some good shots during those exchanges.

The action continued for several rounds as Gutierrez pressed forward, with Abregu appearing to land the cleaner and more effective shots. Neither man held on and it made for great exchanges and some tough rounds for each man. By the end of the eighth round with the open scoring system (by which the judges’ scorecards are made public each round) it was clear that Abregu was comfortably ahead in the fight. The corner of Gutierrez told him he could not win a decision and implored him to go for the knockout. The opposite conversation took place in the other corner as Abregu’s camp told him to box and move, which he did successfully for the remainder of the bout.

Edwin Valero retained his title not only with his now legendary power, but with impressive movement, landing multiple combinations then stepping back out of range before Antonio DeMarco could respond. At times it appeared as though DeMarco was reluctant to throw punches, but this should not be mistaken for a lack of heart. DeMarco was being smothered with punches in every round and then stripped of the opportunity to counter punch.

To add to the drama of this win, Valero was cut in the second round by an accidental elbow foul which opened up an enormous gouge across his forehead. Valero, who could have simply quit, spent the majority of the fight with half his face covered in blood. Instead of quitting Valero proved his mettle by pummeling DeMarco until his corner stopped the fight prior to the start of the tenth round.

A mega fight with pound for pound king Manny Pacquiao certainly makes for an intriguing match-up, though the “Pac Man” is currently campaigning at 147 pounds. With Valero having only recently moved up to 135, and not yet a big enough name in the sport, it appears unlikely that these two will square off anytime soon. A bout with Juan Manuel Marquez would be the next best thing; however, Marquez has many options at preset (Amir Khan, Ricky Hatton) and may opt for a bigger payday. Valero too should now find himself with many options such as Rolando Reyes, Joan Guzman, or David Diaz. If Dinamita really wants to prove himself, he could take a fight with Ali Funeka or better yet find a way to make the Juan Manuel Marquez fight happen.



Comments or questions? Reach me at BoxingWriterJohn@gmail.com

by Geoffrey Ciani @ Ringside - Undefeated middleweight prospect Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin was last seen inside the ring over sixteen months ago. A series of injuries have kept the 26 year old pugilist out of action. Last night, on the Tomasz Adamek-Jason Estrada under card, Quillin finally made his long awaited return to the ring. He squared off against Fernando “Little Ali” Zuniga in a ten round contest.

It was an overall good performance from Quillin. He was able to win virtually every round. Although he was rusty and his timing seemed a bit off, he did what he needed to do to win. He exhibited good speed, solid defense, and nice movement. More importantly, he was patient and did not over commit. Considering the long layoff, he made a very nice account of himself.

This was the fourth time I attended a live Quillin fight. His other three wins that I saw were all by knockout. He defeated Thomas Brown via second round knockout and it took him just one round to finish off David Estrada and Steve Walker. Despite the explosive nature of those victories, I was more impressed by this performance.. With Zuniga, he was in there with a veteran boxer who knew how to fight. In 37 professional fights, Zuniga was only stopped once. He has a scrappy style. He holds and hits, he can make you miss, and he knows how to survive. He has a frustrating tempo and is not especially easy to look good against.

At the end of the night, all three judges scored the bout in Quillin’s favor. Judge Eugenia Williams scored the fight 98-92 and judges Shafeeq Rashada and Hilton Whitaker both had it a shutout, 100-90. With the win, his record improves to 21-0 with 15 of those wins coming by way of knockout. Although Quillin was not especially dominant in any particular round, he piled on points en route to a lopsided victory. He was also able to shake off the rust as he now prepares for bigger and better things in 2010.

by Pavel Yakovlev - (2/6/10) - Timur Ibragimov kayoed Awadh Tamim in three rounds in a heavyweight bout today. Tamim was knocked down twice in the third before referee Jon Schorle ended the match at 2:15 of the round.

Tamim (11-2; six kayos), 224 ¾ lbs, was simply out of his league against the vastly more experienced Ibragimov. The powerfully built Tanzanian fought aggressively in the first round, apparently hoping to catch Ibragimov cold. But Ibragimov was prepared for his opponent’s blitzkrieg tactics, and efficiently eluded Tamim’s combinations. Near the end of the round, Ibragimov rattled Tamim was hard counter punches, which seemed to drain the Tanzanian’s strength.

By the third round, Ibragimov (27-2-1; 15 kayos) was on the hunt. The brave but outgunned Tamim was soon trapped on the ropes and obliterated by the Uzbekistani’s combinations.

Ibragimov weighed 222 ½ lbs, and he is now fighting regularly since ending his contract with Don King Productions last year. Ibragimov acquired the vacant IBA Intercontinental heavyweight title as a result of today’s win.. He is hoping to advance himself in the ratings by acquiring multiple regional belts in the future. The victory is his sixth in a row. Ibragimov is now only one or two fights removed from regaining the worldwide top 15 rating he held until 2007, when became semi-active due to managerial and promotional difficulties.

In front of an exuberant crowd of 10,123 predominantly Adamek Fans, Tomasz Adamek defeated Jason Estrada in a 12 Round decision, to retain the IBF Heavyweight International Heavyweight title. The official scores were 115-113, 116-112 and 118-110, all in favor of Adamek.

Post Fight Quotes From Jason Estrada: “If everyone in this room were completely honest with themselves you would all admit that I got robbed. I mean I got played. I might as well have had a gun pointed to my head.”

“At best I give Adamek three of the twelve rounds. I seriously think the last judge doesn’t need to judge anymore.”

“Yeah I’m angry. I fought my a_ _ off. I trained harder than I ever have. I was in the best shape I’ve ever been in. People talked about me possibly running out of gas, but I never did. All he (Adamek) did was run..”

“If I learned one thing tonight it was that I can’t go into anyone’s hometown to fight. What do I have to do bring a gun?”

Quotes from Tomasz Adamek:

“It was the best Jason Estrada I’ve ever seen in my life. He was 50 percent better today, than he when he fought a top three heavyweight like Aleksander Powietkin. Quick, with a good defense and a very hard head. It was extremely difficult to locate precise punches, because of his defense. Maybe, I should have use more than three punches combination, maybe risk a little more? I wanted to do it, but my trainer Andrzej Gmitruk was telling me all the time in the corner to be more boxer than puncher, avoid his punches first, then use different temp to throw him of his strategy. It was another test in heavyweight division, versus very difficult to fight boxer. “

“I was hit couple of times hard, sure – but this is a part of boxing. But none of his punches made me change my tactics or get sacred, not at all. I knew he didn’t have a knockout punch...”

“I weighed 220 pounds for this fight, probably an ideal weight for me, I was prepared for 12 rounds, and pretty early in the fight I realized this is what would happen. So I had to conserve more energy, maybe be less aggressive than in my previous fights.”

“I don’t even want to get into these Jason assumptions that he was robbed. I think I won by four, maybe five points. My trainer Andrzej Gmitruk wanted me to be more boxer than puncher, was screaming at me in the corner. But how can I fight differently when I have a 10,000 of my red and white fans screaming for me to do just that? They pay good money to see entertaining fight, not some boring, slow guys throwing 10 punches a round.”

“I have couple of words for those who are saying that I cannot fight Arreola because he is a much better puncher than Estrada. First of all every fight is different, and anyone who knows about boxing can say “Estrada hit him, but Arreola will do the same, and harder”. We don’t know that. Maybe it will be easier for me to avoid punches from Arreola, and maybe it will be easier for me to hit him! We just don’t know, but won’t it be interesting to see…“.

MONTERREY, Mexico (Feb. 7, 2010) – In a sterling performance, Edwin Valero of Venezuela improved to 27-0 with 27 knockouts and retained the World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight title with a dominant ninth-round TKO over WBC interim titleholder Antonio DeMarco (23-2-1, 17 KOs) of Tijuana, Mex., Saturday in the main event on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on SHOWTIME®.

World-ranked welterweight Carlos Abregu of Salta, Argentina, upped his record to 29-0 (23 KOs) with a clear-cut, 10-round unanimous decision over Miami-based Colombian Richard Gutierrez (24-4, 14 KOs) in the co-feature at Arena Monterrey.

The event, promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, LLC, was the first SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast to emanate from Mexico in nearly 12 years and the first in Monterrey in more than 15.

Valero, who resides in Las Vegas, showed he was anything but one-dimensional as he outfought and, somewhat shockingly, outboxed the tentative and outclassed DeMarco while controlling all the rounds in a one-sided battle of southpaws..

By Ken Neir: Former IBF cruiserweight champion Tomasz Adamek (40-1, 27 KO’s) looked far from impressive as he labored to a hard fought 12 round unanimous decision on Saturday night against 2004 U.S. Olympian Jason Estrada (16-3, 4 KO’s) at the Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey. Adamek, 32, came into the fight weighing an all time high of 220, and fought as if the weight was a problem for him. The final judges’ scores were 118-110, 116-112, and 115-113. Adamek took a great deal of punishment from the light-hitting Estrada, and seemed to be unable to get out of the way of any of Estrada’s shots.

It’s fortunate that Estrada wasn’t a huge puncher, because chances are he would have stopped Adamek if he had a little more power behind his shots. Despite being noted as a puncher while fighting in the light heavyweight and cruiserweight divisions, Adamek’s punches appeared weak in comparison to Estrada’s shots.

Adamek made up for his lack of power by throwing a lot of punches, which enabled him to stay in control of the fight. However, it still was a very close fight and had Estrada thrown more punches in the last five rounds, he would have likely taken the fight. Adamek’s face was forced to take the full brunt of Estrada's shots, as Adamek appeared to block a lot of Estrada’s punches with his face instead of his gloves..

Estrada had Adamek backing up in the 10th after hitting him with a right hand to the head. Adamek covered up on the ropes as Estrada briefly teed off on him. However, Adamek came back in the 11th and 12th round, barely getting the better of Estrada with combinations that had little power on them. Estrada continued to land the harder shots in the last two rounds, but didn’t throw enough.

Overall, Adamek looked pretty bad. I don’t like his chances against heavyweight contender Chris Arreola in April. I think Adamek will be destroyed if he takes that fight. Arreola appears much too powerful for him, and I think based on how Adamek looked tonight, he would be destroyed within six rounds. At best, I think Adamek might be able to survive for eight rounds if he ran from Arreola, but that’s about all. Adamek would be better off moving back down to the cruiserweight division. He looks fat and slow at 220, and doesn’t belong at heavyweight in my view. Adamek might do well against some of the smaller heavyweights, but against big punchers like Arreola, and, of course, the Klitschko brothers, I see Adamek getting blown out of the ring. If Adamek doesn't move back down to the cruiserweight division, I'd like to see him against someone like Alexander Povetkin or Odlanier Solis. I don't think he could beat either of them, but at least it would give Adamek a good judge of what he's up against in the heavyweight division.

World Boxing Council lightweight champion Edwin Valero (27-0, 27 KO's) chalked up his 27th straight knockout tonight in stopping WBC interim champion Antonio DeMarco in a 9th round TKO tonight. The bout was stopped by DeMarco's corner after the 9th round. Valero wore DeMarco out, punishing him with heavy shots round after round. By the 7th round, DeMarco was mainly just taking punishment and not really throwing anything back of substance. In the 8th and 9th, Valero battered DeMarco at will, raining shots down on him. DeMarco lost a point in the 2nd round for cutting Valero with an elbow. Besides that, DeMarco did very little in the fight and looked tentative for the most part.

by James Slater - Now that his super-fight with "Sugar" Shane Mosley is at long last signed and sealed, Floyd "Money" Mayweather has started giving interviews again. Speaking exclusively to SKY Sports yesterday, the soon-to-be-33-year-old had quite a lot to say - and not only about the upcoming May 1st fight we are all looking forward to.

Mayweather told Sky he is "very excited" about the fight, and that he has been hanging with members of his team, talking game-plans and tactics before he gets ready to go into camp. "Money" also spoke about the steroids Mosley was caught using, and how he feels all future fights should have to adhere to the random drug testing the May 1st fight is being fought under..

Also, inevitably, Mayweather was asked to speak about the man we all thought he would have been facing next, in Manny Pacquiao. Floyd refused to say much of anything about Pac-Man, though.

"I can't say what kind of condition Shane's going to be in, but of course I'm going to be in top condition," Mayweather said when asked about the upcoming fight. "It should be a great fight on May 1st. My main focus is Shane Mosley. In the past, he's been caught using steroids, steroids were found in his blood; but if he's down with taking random drug testing [for this fight] I'm with it all the way."

Mayweather was then asked if he feels strict and random drug testing should be enforced before all future boxing matches.

"Oh, absolutely - just to clean up the sport of boxing. To clean up all sports, period," he said. I've dominated the sport of boxing in a very, very clean way and in a very clean fashion."

It's no secret how the Mayweather clan, father Floyd Senior in particular, feel strongly Manny Pacquiao is taking illegal substances. Yesterday, Mayweather Junior point blank refused to even talk about Manny Pacquiao, however.

"Oh, I'm focused on nobody but Shane Mosley," Floyd said when asked if he thinks he could face Pacquiao next, if victorious on May 1st.

Giving it one more try to get Mayweather to give in and talk about Pac-Man, the interviewer asked him if the fight could still happen.

"My main focus is on Shane Mosley right now," Mayweather said with a little smile.

He would not be drawn. Still, Floyd did say something very interesting about the Mosley fight - regarding the bout's rematch clause.

"I never knew nothing about that [the rematch clause the interviewer said Mosley has got]," Floyd said. "You get it right the first time, then you don't have to worry about the second [fight]."

Confident words, but who asked for the rematch clause; Floyd or Shane?

by Pavel Yakovlev - Today, Germany is the world’s center of professional heavyweight boxing. The sport’s long-term dominant heavyweights, Vladimir and Vitali Klitschko, have fought nearly their entire careers in Germany. German promotional houses Sauerland Events and Universum Boxing Promotions are now so influential that the most powerful American promoters – who once had no competition --cooperate with them to stage mega events in that country.

Naturally, Germany’s emergence as a boxing powerhouse over the past two decades has heightened the profile of the late Max Schmeling, the legendary German boxer who was the world heavyweight champion in the 1930s. Media articles on German boxing often include reverential remarks about Schmeling, who is unquestionably the greatest native-born German heavyweight of all time.

Schmeling’s Olympian status in German boxing history, however, has had the effect of causing the public and media to overlook the accomplishments of Germany’s second greatest native-born heavyweight in history. That man is Karl Mildenberger, who was formidable enough to be a top contender in the competitive 1960s era, and who was sufficiently talented to fight a heroic losing effort against Muhammad Ali, whom many consider to be the greatest heavyweight of all.

Mildenberger’s achievements are considerable. He was the first southpaw to fight for the world heavyweight title. From 1964 to 1968, Mildenberger held the European heavyweight title, which he successfully defended six times. During this period Mildenberger was always ranked in the worldwide top ten by Ring Magazine. He finished his professional career with an impressive record of 53-6-3 (19 kayos)..

In the summer of 1967, Ring Magazine rated Mildenberger as the world’s number one heavyweight contender, based on his gritty losing effort against Ali. During these months, many speculated that Mildenberger might be the world’s best heavyweight outside of Ali, Sonny Liston, and Joe Frazier. In fact, it was widely believed that Mildenberger would probably win the WBA elimination tournament established to crown a successor to Ali, who was forced into temporary retirement due to political and legal problems.

In his prime, Mildenberger stood 6’1 ½” and weighed between 190 and 200 lbs. He was a superb technical boxer who made effective use of his southpaw advantage, constantly peppering opponents with his fast, sharp right jab. Mildenberger’s footwork was excellent: he exhibited fine lateral movement and tended to control the distance between himself and his foes in the center ring. Most of Mildenberger’s opponents – including some of the world’s most skilled and experienced fighters – had extreme difficulty coping with his tricky southpaw boxing tactics.

In this article, The Eastside reviews the career and accomplishments of Mildenberger, concluding with an exclusive interview with the former top contender himself.

THE EARLY YEARS OF MILDENBERGER’S CAREER

Mildenberger was born on November 23, 1937, in Kaiserslautern, Rheinland-Pfalz. He was introduced to boxing through his father’s cousin, who was a national boxing champion at the time. As an amateur, Mildenberger won 52 of 64 fights and was the German light heavyweight champion in 1958. He fought several international bouts as a member of the German national boxing team.

In 1958, Mildenberger turned professional by scoring a first round kayo over Manfred Striemer. Over the next two years, he fought 21 times, winning 20 bouts and losing once. By 1960, Mildenberger had grown physically and weighed a solid 185 lbs., which made him a full-fledged heavyweight. That same year, Mildenberger scored his first major win by out pointing Italian Franco Cavicchi (65-9-3; 44 kayos) over ten rounds. The victory was all the more impressive because it took place in Cavicchi’s hometown of Bologna, where the local officials would have been bias against Mildenberger.

The following year, victories over tough American journeymen Wayne Bethea (23-15-2; nine kayos), Howard King (38-22-8; 14 kayos) and Pete Rademacher (14-6-1; eight kayos) established Mildenberger as one of Europe’s best heavyweights. Internationally, Mildenberger was now regarded as a promising up-and-coming prospect who might eventually acquire world-class status.

For the upwardly mobile Mildenberger, acquiring the European heavyweight title was his next career goal. Thus, in 1962, a match with European champion Dick Richardson (30-12-2; 23 kayos) was arranged. As the victor of 30 out of 31 professional matches, the young, talented German was a solid favorite to beat Richardson, especially since the fight was staged on Mildenberger’s home turf of Dortmund.

But disaster struck when Richardson knocked out Mildenberger at 2:35 of the first round. A single right to the jaw put the German down for the count. Until the abrupt ending, Mildenberger dominated the action, connecting with right jabs and using fast footwork to make his Welsh opponent miss badly. But Mildenberger became overconfident, which led to his recklessly moving inside to attack Richardson’s body. In doing so, Mildenberger dropped his guard and was kayoed.

The discouraged Mildenberger remained inactive for seven months following the Richardson debacle. But the loss turned out to be a blessing in disguise for the young heavyweight. Now aware of his overconfidence and vulnerabilities, Mildenberger worked hard in the gym to rectify his tactical flaws. Consequently, he returned to the ring a wiser, stronger, and more seasoned fighter.

Mildenberger next won ten of eleven straight fights, the one bout he did not win being a draw against cagey Philadelphian Archie McBride (26-15-1; 11 kayos). In addition to soundly defeating McBride in a rematch, Mildenberger won important victories over established fringe contenders Alonzo Johnson (21-11; six kayos), Joe Bygraves (40-19-1; 20 kayos), and Billy Daniels (18-4; nine kayos). The Daniels victory was especially important, as Mildenberger won the bout by third round kayo. In his three previous fights, Daniels had lasted the full distance against contenders Zora Folley, Doug Jones, and Cleveland Williams.

Mildenberger’s biggest win during this period was an impressive ten round decision over Welshman Joe Erskine (40-6-1; 11 kayos) in 1963. Erskine was a former British Commonwealth champion who held victories over George Chuvalo, Henry Cooper, and Willie Pastrano. Erskine had also defeated Richardson twice. Thus, the Erskine win was a psychological turning point for Mildenberger because it helped to put the Richardson loss behind him.

As a result of his victory over Erskine, Ring Magazine elevated Mildenberger to the number eight spot in its worldwide rankings. Mildenberger had finally established himself as a contender. It was now time for him to challenge the biggest names in the heavyweight division.

MILDENBERGER AS A TOP CONTENDER

In May 1964, Mildenberger faced his toughest career opponent yet in Zora Folley (67-7-3; 37 kayos), a perennial top contender and the world’s fifth rated heavyweight by Ring Magazine. For Mildenberger, this was a make-or-break fight: either he would prove that he was a legitimate contender himself, or he would be dismissed as an also-ran. The bout took place in Frankfurt, Germany.

Mildenberger passed the test, as he held the more experienced Folley to a hard fought, ten round draw. Behind on points after six rounds, Mildenberger turned the bout around by unleashing a spirited attack in the seventh. In the eighth, however, disaster loomed as Mildenberger suffered a deep cut over his eye, necessitating an examination from the ringside doctor. Faced with the possibility of losing the bout due to cuts, Mildenberger rallied and outfought Folley in the final two rounds, thus salvaging a draw on the scorecards.

Without doubt, Mildenberger was now a legitimate top contender. In Europe, Mildenberger’s only conceivable peer was Englishman Henry Cooper, who held the European heavyweight championship. A planned match between Cooper and Mildenberger was cancelled when Cooper injured himself in training. The European Boxing Union then stripped Cooper of the title, and matched Mildenberger with Italy’s Santo Amonti (51-5-3; 35 kayos) for the vacant championship.

In October 1964, Mildenberger won the European heavyweight championship in devastating fashion, knocking out Amonti with a body punch at 1:32 of round one. Holding the European title moved Mildenberger even higher in the world ratings.

Mildenberger finished 1964 by fighting a draw with tough, underrated American Amos Johnson (18-3-1; eight kayos). If anything, this draw may have enhanced Mildenberger’s standing in Europe, because several months later Johnson meted out a sound beating to Henry Cooper in a London bout.

Despite warnings of two plus feet of snow, it was standing room only at The Legendary Blue Horizon and those fans who braved the elements were rewarded with one of the most action filled boxing cards that was reminiscent of the days that made The Legendary Blue Horizon the world’s number one boxing venue. This night was part of the annual Valentine’s Day Special show promoted by Vernoca L. Michael and Blue Horizon Boxing Inc..

The American Red Cross was present and fans donated money to help the relief efforts in the Earthquake ravaged country of Haiti.

In the main event, USBA Jr. Middleweight champion Derek “Pooh” Ennis tuned up for a spring title defense by dropping Edwin Vazquez twice in round five with a vicious body assault to score a knockout at 1:26 of that round in their scheduled eight round non title clash.

Ennis showed tremendous hand speed and clearly worked the body behind a solid jab. Vazquez showed a lot of heart and determination as he would not only mock Ennis but try to start some offense for himself.

In round five, Ennis dropped Vazquez with a blistering left to the body and moments later he did the same thing to the other side of Vazquez’ body with the right and the fight called off.

In one of the most anticipated undercard bouts, Former World Junior Amateur champion Joey Dawejko of Philadelphia needed just forty-seven seconds to dispose of Ricardo Johnson.

Dawejko landed a perfect counter right hand that thrilled the crowd that was heavily supporting the nineteen year old from the Tacony section of town.

Dawejko is now 2-0.

Former U.S Olympic alternate, Eric “The Outlaw” drilled out former world title challenger Roberto Bonilla at the end of round one of their scheduled six round featherweight bout.

Hunter dominated the action with blazing handspeed until a left to the live put Bonilla down and out at end of the first stanza.

In the fight of the night, Jackie Davis scored a four round unanimous decision over Melisenda Perez in a ladies four round war.

The two traded shots and thrilled the crowd and the fighters received standing ovations throughout the fight.

Swedish heavyweight Andreas Gustafson moved to 4-0 with a stoppage over Levay King at the end of round two of their scheduled four round bout.

Ronald Cruz scored an impressive third round knockout over the experienced Martinus Clay in a scheduled six round bout.

FULL RESULTS

6 ROUNDS FEATHERWEIGHTS---Eric Hunter (12-5, 5 KO’s) 125 lbs of Philadelphia KO 1 (3:00) over Roberto Bonilla (22-12) 124 lbs of Ciudad Sandino, NIC

8 Rounds JR MIDDLEWEIGHTS—Derek Ennis (20-2-1, 13 KO’s) 154 lbs of Philadelphia TKO 5 (1:26) over Edwin Vazquez (22-15-2) 150 lbs of Santurce, PR

6 ROUNDS WELTERWEIGHT—Ronald Cruz (8-0, 5 KO’s) of Bethlehem, PA KO 3 (1:57) over Martinus Clay (13-24-4) 148 ½ lbs of Philadelphia

4 ROUNDS FEMALE WELTERWEIGHTS—Jackie Davis (4-0) 146 ½ lbs of Philadelphia U DEC over Melisenda Perez (6-2) 149 lbs of Kansas City, MO…scores were40-36; 40-36 and 39-37

4 ROUNDS HEAVYWEIGHTS—Joey Dawejko (2-0, 1 KO) 224 ½ lbs of Philadelphia KO 1 (:47) over Ricardo Johnson (1-1) 235 lbs of Cincinnati, OH

4 ROUNDS HEAVYWEIGHTS—Andreas Gustafson (4-0, 2 KO’s) 236 lbs of Norrkoping, Sweden KO (end of 2nd) over Levay King (0-2) 231 ½ lbs of PA

4 ROUNDS JR WELTERWEIGHTS—Clement Bethea (1-0) 139 lbs of Philadelphia, PA SPLT DEC over Henry Northan (0-2) 137 lbs of Philadelphia…Scores were 39-37; 39-37 for Bethea; 39-37 for Northan

by James Slater - There was plenty of good action last night in the Nottingham show headlined by British super-bantamweight champion Jason "Too Smooth" Booth. 32-year-old Booth, defending his British title for the third time, won the coveted Lonsdale belt outright, as he won an 11th-round TKO over a very game Matthew Marsh.

Booth, from Nottingham, had a very tough fight on his hands, as he was cut, floored and outboxed in the first half of the exciting affair. Finally, much to the dismay of 27-year-old Marsh and his fans, Booth got the win at 59-seconds of the 11th-round - as the ringside doctor stopped the fight due to the nasty cut Marsh had above his right eye.. Booth, who also picked up the vacant Commonwealth 122-pound title, is now 35-5(15). Former British champion Marsh is now 13-2(1).

Booth had real problems in the first five or six rounds of the fight, as the faster Marsh caught him with shots and outworked him. A clash of heads in the opening round left Booth cut above the left eye, and the injury looked to be quite a serious one. Booth's corner did a good job of patching their man up, however, and there was no real danger of the fight being stopped due to the head clash.

But Marsh looked for a good few rounds as though he just might take Booth's title (the title he himself gave up, as opposed to losing in the ring). Marsh even scored a flash knockdown in the 5th-round, when Booth was caught to the head by a shot when off balance and a count was given. Showing real character once again in his career, though, Booth pressed forwards and finally got into his groove in the 6th and 7th-rounds.

Marsh had picked up a cut over his right eye in the session in which he scored the knockdown, and by the late rounds the blood was flowing profusely. The younger man was also tiring, and Booth was winning the rounds - at last showing his class. On my card, "Too Smooth" won every round from the 7th to the 10th; before Marsh's bad cut forced the ending.

On two of the three judges cards, Marsh was up, however - by two points and by three points, respectively. With just two full rounds left to go at the time of the ending, who knows, maybe we could have had a draw had the bout been permitted to go on? The cut eye was so bad the fight had to be stopped, though, and Booth pulled it out in the end. A rematch is a strong possibility.

A big name returned to action on the under-card, as former British super-featherweight champion Carl Johanneson fought for the first time since his loss to Kevin Mitchell, back in March of 2008. Up at an announced weight of 138-pounds, the 31-year-old from Leeds pounded out a six-rounds points win over the durable Syrian, Youssef Al Hamidi. It's tough to know how much the now 28-4(19) Johanneson has left, but the reported hope of "Ingemar's" is to get a return with Mitchell. Al Hamidi, who has been stopped just once in 32 pro fights, is now 6-24-2(1).

Also on last night's card, light-heavyweight and former "Prize Fighter" winner Ovill McKenzie looked sensational as he stopped the tough Billy Boyle in just over two minutes of the very first round. McKenzie, one of British boxing's best kept secrets, is now 18-9(7). Another former "Prize Fighter," in Young Mutley, also won last night, as he stopped Scott Woolford at 1 minute and three-seconds of the 3rd-round. 33-year-old Mutley is now 28-5(14).

28-year-old Light-middleweight Martin Concepcion earned himself a place in the next "Prize Fighter" tournament, as he won a very tough and close ten-round decision over Kevin Hammond. Opinions were split at ringside as to who deserved the win, but Concepcion prevailed by a single point at 97-96.

By John G. Thompson - Glen “The Road Warrior” Johnson 50-13-2 (34 KO’s) showed why at the tender age of forty-one he still belongs in the upper echelons of the light heavyweight division with his sixth round TKO win over Yusef Mack 28-3-2. The former champion Johnson showed not age but beauty in setting a fast pace while also restraining himself at times, giving himself time to think and put down his opponent.

In the under card, highly decorated Cuban stars Guillermo Rigondeaux 5-0 (4 KO’s) and Yudel Jhonson 5-0 (3 KO’s) each scored first round knockouts against their opponents Adolfo Landeros 20-13-1 and Dorian Beaupierre 12-6-2. Neither opponent had any business being in the ring with these two Olympic medallists, Landeros having lost six of his last eight fights, and Beaupierre having taken the fight on eleven days notice and not having been in the ring since 2006. While Rigondeaux and Jhonson looked spectacular, they were meant to, and they should both be facing stiffer competition..

In the main event, Ed Parades 24-3-1 (15 KO’s) won the rematch of his draw with Joey Hernandez 15-1-1 in dramatic fashion, scoring a highlight reel left hook knockout in the second round. Hernandez had been lunging in with loaded shots and then holding on, winning the round with this strategy, until Parades timed him perfectly, handing Hernandez his first professional loss.

The co-main event may have stolen the show; however, if for no other reason than because at his advanced age, Glen Johnson (the underdog according to the Vegas odds) showed the world he deserves another shot at the title. The first round was close, though Johnson might have won it being that he was snapping Mack’s head back with a jab and pressing the action. Mack almost certainly won the second round staying on the outside and boxing effectively. Johnson’s legendary pace kicked in during the third round and the man eleven years younger was unable to keep up. Mack did do well in the fifth, possibly even landing the cleaner, and more effective shots.

The sixth round rendered the scoring irrelevant as Johnson used multiple left jabs to shift the guard of Mack, and then put him down with a hard right. Mack got up and Johnson pressed the action backing Mack into the ropes. Johnson then showed a bit of maturity by not plowing in as usual. Instead, Johnson took a breath, waited for his moment, and threw another perfect right, which put Mack down again. This time when Mack got up his eyes appeared glazed over. The action continued for a moment, until Johnson landed a left hook. Mack dropped to a knee, and though he got up quickly, the referee appropriately stopped the fight.

Glen Johnson showed that with age also comes experience. More importantly, he showed the heart of a champion and should be in line for another shot at the title. The light heavyweight division is full of talent, and a fight between him and Tavoris Cloud, Adrian Diaconu, Jean Pascal, or Gabriel Campillo (who was recently robbed of a well deserved victory) would all be highly entertaining fights. Of course a long awaited rematch with Bernard Hopkins (after B-Hop defeats Roy Jones, Jr.) might also entice Johnson, being that “The Executioner” is not only the Ring Magazine Light Heavyweight Champion, but the only man to have ever stopped “The Road Warrior.”

Questions or concerns? Email me at BoxingWriterJohn@gmail.com

SANTA YNEZ, Calif. (Feb. 6, 2010) – With one sudden, dramatic right hand, once-beaten Freddy “El Riel’’ Hernandez (28-1, 19 KOs) of Lynwood, Calif. broke open an entertaining, dead-even fight to brutally knock out former world champion DeMarcus “Chop Chop’’ Corley (36-13-1, 21 KOs) of Washington, D.C., at 1:48 of the fifth round Friday in the main event on ShoBox: The New Generation on SHOWTIME®.

In the co-feature at Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, Calif., power-punching, undefeated Dominican Francisco Contreras (13-0, 12 KOs), of Livingston, N.J., registered a 1:38, first-round knockout over Juan Castaneda, Jr. (16-3, 12 KOs), of La Paz, Mexico, in a scheduled eight-round junior welterweight bout.

The three judges had the Hernandez-Corley scheduled 10-round welterweight scrap scored 38-apiece entering the fifth round.

A former World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior welter belt-holder, Corley vowed going in to take the fight to Hernandez and he did. He cut the No. 14-ranked contender in the World Boxing Council (WBC) around both eyes and his experience created a lot of problems for the native of Mexico City..

By Michael Katsidis: Today I propose a challenge to to Juan Diaz ! This is your lifeline ! Lets play who wants to be a Millionare !

It is your turn to phone a friend, call Golden boy and lets make this happen ! Since our last fight I have regained the WBO light weight championship of the world !

There has been talk for a bout against Robert Gurrero, a junior lightweight with little interest to me and nothing to gain !

Instead I choose a greater task with a personal meaning !

I propose to come Housten on the 27th of march and put everything I have gained on the line !

Juan this is your opportunity and I ask for a public response within the next 24 hours to show your willingness to accept this challenge !

With confidence , I will abide , come to Housten and and in front of 15000 or more fans defend my title !

MICHAEL KATSIDIS

MONTREAL, CANADA (February 5, 2010) Colombian amateur Samuel Vargas will make his pro debut against Todd Furler, this Saturday, February 6th at the Montreal Casino in Quebec, Canada in a scheduled four round welterweight bout. Born in Bogota, Colombia, Vargas immigrated to Canada at age 16 in search of a better life. Arriving in Toronto , Vargas started boxing under the guidance of famed Canadian trainer Chris Johnson. Hitting the sparring ring against world class professionals including Steve Molitor, Logan McGuinness and Andrew Singh Kooner, Vargas quickly earned the respect of his peers..

Said former bronze medalist and head trainer, “Vargas has the heart of a Lion, he does not know the word Quit!! I expect big things from this young man in the future.”

About his upcoming bout, Vargas stated, “I’m looking forward to my debut this Saturday night and would like to thank Hennessy Sports and Group Yvon Michel for the opportunity.”

Undefeated Canadian puncher David Lemieux headlines the six fight card at the Montreal Casino in Quebec , Canada on February 6 when he faces Jason Naugler for the vacant Canadian middleweight title.

The six fight card also includes former world title challenger Herman Ngoudjo, who faces Silverio Ortiz in a non title eight rounder. Ngoudjo has not fought since dropping a 12 round decision to Juan Urango for the IBF welterweight title in January 2009 and will be looking to impress as he plans another assault on the world title.

ABOUT HENNESSY SPORTS
Hennessy Sports is a one of the World’s most accomplished Boxing promotional companies. Founded in 2002, the firm operates under a simple philosophy – bring the best boxers in the world to fight fans and match them in the most entertaining bouts possible. In 2006 Hennessy Sports founder and CEO Mick Hennessy Partnered with Canadian Businessman and long time associate Adam Harris to form Hennessy Sports Canada. Hennessy Sports head office is located in London , England and has offices in Toronto , Canada . For information on Hennessy Sports, please visit www.Hennessysports.com

by James Slater - Tom Tsatas, former long-time manager of heavyweight contender Fres Oquendo, is now a promoter. The new head of Hitz Boxing, Tom is looking towards putting on great, value for money shows for the fans.

Tsatas' maiden show as promoter takes place on the 20th of this month, with Oquendo headlining (there will also be a big name on the under-card) and all involved expect a great night.

Very kindly taking the time to talk with me earlier today, Tom spoke about some of the ideas he has for giving boxing fans better quality shows..

Here are Tom's answers to my questions:

James Slater: It's great to speak with you, Tom, as always. You have a lot of news to speak about - first of all, you are now the president of Hitz Boxing, and a promoter, not a manager?

Tom Tsatas: So they tell me (laughs). I'm a lot busier now, I tell you that. I'm not really what you'd call a promoter, per se. Bobby Hitz, who I've known for years, I basically work for him. This is my first crack at being a promoter for real, even though I have had some experience in the past. The show on February 20th, with Fres Oquendo headlining, is a big show - our first big show. And I can tell you now, I can confirm, that George Foreman III will be on the card.

J.S: That's interesting. You obviously have two big names there, with Fres and "Monk" Foreman.

T.T: Yeah, it's not a bad card really, for a first show. I imagine Foreman will be fighting a 4 or 6-rounder - he's had what, five pro fights? This [Foreman III's appearance on the Feb. 20th card] really came about because of Bob Hitz' good working relationship with George Foreman Senior; he knows him well.

J.S: Bob Hitz fought Foreman!

T.T: Yeah, he did. So we'll see how Foreman III goes, but I'm excited to have such a big name involved on the card, and his dad always shows up when his son is fighting - so we'll have a legend in attendance also!

J.S: Which is the tougher job, being a promoter or a manager?

T.T: That's a very good question. I want to first put this show on, and then we'll see. I think the move to promoter was a natural progression for me. I want to put on good shows, great shows, for the fans. We want to have a little bit of everything; a bigger name, a crowd-pleaser - everything for the fans. We have a number of young fighters and we will see how far we can take them. There are a lot more responsibilities as a promoter, yet I also have more control in some ways. I want to see that my fighters are never taken advantage of. I can be honest, because I'm not in this to make money. I want to make sure the fans have a good night and go home happy. That's the most important thing, to put on great events for the fans.

J.S: I was talking to Fres yesterday. He says he wants a Klitschko after he beats Demetrice King on Feb. 20th.

T.T: I've told Fres he has a very tough fight ahead of him on February 20th. Demetrice is a tough guy, and he'll be no walk in the park for Fres. I've told Fres he better be ready for 12 hard rounds - a hellish night. The thing is, if Fres were to lose, I'd say, 'well, I think he lost.' It's all about honesty; that's why I respect Freddie Roach - he tells it like it is. That's my attitude. But I've told Fres, we cannot afford to look past this fight.

J.S: As promoter, what type of T.V coverage are you looking at, for this show and for future shows? Or is the internet the way to go perhaps?

T.T: Yeah, internet streaming could be the way to go. Internet coverage has not done as much as it could so far. Or we could look at local pay-per-view. ESPN is great, I love their announcers and their coverage. But the T.V networks can control your card to some degree, in terms of who your fighter fights. Basically, if we get T.V, then great, if not, well, you can't base your whole company on someone else's philosophy.

J.S: You have said how you want to make changes to boxing shows, to help its popularity. What kind of things have you in mind?

T.T: I don't want to copy someone else, but you can't argue with success. I mean, wrestling is a joke to many, yet it fills out stadiums. UFC can be fantastic, the way its fan base has built and built. And MMA, you can't argue with the way they put on great shows - even if the fights aren't that good sometimes, the fans have a good time, a good night. Part of it is putting on a good under-card, with no "snoozers." You build up your product and your event and see to it that the fans FEEL the show; that they get some of the glitz and the atmosphere - the lights and the energy. You get out of it what you put into it. Hard work pays back, and you can't argue with the way MMA promotes its fights into real events each time out.

J.S: What do you think of so-called hybrid match-ups, with MMA fighters facing boxers? James Toney has talked about maybe fighting an MMA guy soon.

T.T: It depends on who the fighters are. Someone like Toney, if he gets taken down, he could get embarrassed - he could get a broken arm even. If he can catch a guy on the way in, he might have a chance; of course he's tough and full of heart. But if he gets taken down! I've worked with both sports, and I respect both. Boxing, to me, is more of a sport, but MMA is great too. Boxing and the way its promoted can certainly learn from MMA, no doubt. In my heart I'll always prefer boxing, but you have to move with the times.

J.S: Overall, how good a shape would you say boxing is in right now?

T.T: The best nights in my bar are the nights when there are the really big fights - like with Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather and those guys. But after those fights have been done, I don't know what else there will be to look ahead to in the immediate future. Of course, Super-Six is a great idea, but MMA is more consistent overall at giving its fans the great nights. I don't think boxing will ever die, it's been around for a hundred years, but things have to change. I mean, people know the names of Randy Couture, Brock Lesnar and Chuck Liddell - even though they haven't even seen them fight! So how can you argue with that? We need to make boxing as big and as mainstream as that, like it was before.

by Geoffrey Ciani - Heavyweight contenders Tomasz Adamek and Jason Estrada are all set to square off tomorrow night at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. At today’s weigh-in, Adamek came in at 220.5 pounds while Estrada weighed 237. Both pugilists appeared in good shape and ready to do battle.

Both camps are extremely confident their side will emerge victorious. Estrada has made no secret of his belief that Adamek is making a mistake. Jason and his father/trainer, Roland, both feel that Adamek is too small for the heavyweight division. They believe his win over Golota was the result of Golota being way past his prime and do not feel this win should act as justification for Adamek stepping into the ring with Estrada. On the other side, Team Adamek is confident that their man is well suited for a run in the heavyweight division. In fact, there is already talks of an April showdown with heavyweight contender Chris Arreola should Adamek win this fight, and should he get by that challenge, it is even conceivable that Adamek will be in line for a title shot later this year..

By Prince Dornu-Leiku - Former IBF Bantamweight champion Joseph King Kong Agbeko will fly out of the country to the USA shortly to begin final preparations for his next fight against South African Vusi Malinga on April 16. The bout serves as an eliminator for the IBF title which Agbeko lost to Yohnny Perez in his last fight in 2009 and the Ghanaian is taking no chances at all, even if he will face Malinga in front of the South African fighter’s own countrymen..

“I’ll definitely beat him, this is no over-confidence but I have no choice than to beat him and it is my training that will show. It’s a big comeback for me and I want to put up an impressive performance because this is going to be the beginning of the new journey to the top for me,” Agbeko said in Accra.

South Africa based Branco Sports Productions beat off competition from Agbeko’s promoter the famous Don King to stage the fight in the African country much to the delight of Malinga, 19-3-1, 12 KOs. “I am very happy to get this fight here in SA. It will definitely give me greater confidence and the crowd will be an advantage. I know Agbeko is a strong guy and he can punch. He has fought some of the world’s top-rated boxers, so this will not be an easy fight. But his style of fighting is suited to mine and I think that is how I will beat him,” Malinga said.

But Agbeko who will be fighting in SA for the second time in his career has brushed aside any fears proclaiming his readiness to tame Malinga in his own country. Victory will pave the way for the Ghanaian pugilist who fights by way of the Bronx in New York to challenge Yohnny Perez for a chance to reclaim the world title the Mexican American slugger took away in their fight last year. And it is one opportunity Agbeko will not let pass him because he believes he is a better fighter compared to Perez. “I want to fight Perez again badly so that I can show all of my fans that some things went wrong in the first fight with him. I want to prove people wrong and show my fans that I lost that fight because things went wrong,” King Kong stated.

Standing in the way of the rematch with Yohnny Perez is South African journeyman Malinga who Agbeko must beat. The Ghanaian has assured his fans that there is nothing to fear because they will see a better fighter in Joseph Agbeko come April 16 in South Africa. “I would like to tell my fans that I am back! I want them to know that for every step back, there is another step forward. I want them to know that I am making a comeback, big time,” King Kong has proclaimed.

SANTA YNEZ, CA (February 5, 2010) Undefeated junior welterweight prospect Francisco “THE PHENOM” Contreras hits Southern California this Friday night, February 5th, to battle Juan Castaneda Jr. at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, California in the opening bout of ShoBox: The New Generation on Showtime (11pm ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast). Signed to the rapidly growing, international boxing promoter, TKO Boxing Promotions, the 25 year old Contreras, 12-0-0 (11KO’s), a native of the Dominican Republic, burst onto the US boxing scene last year with a brutal first round stoppage of Gustavo Mejia on June 18th in front of a stunned crowd at Michael’s Eighth Avenue, outside of Baltimore..

With devastating power in both hands, Contreras quickly earned two more crunching, early stoppages, a first rounder of Julian Rodriguez on August 27th in Hagerstown, Maryland and a second round knockout of Ron Boyd in Houston, Texas on October 10th.

Contreras finished 2009 by dominating veteran Marteze Logan over six rounds towards a unanimous decision win on December 19th in Knoxville, Tennessee.

The 26 year old Castaneda brings a record of 16-2-1 (12KO’s) into the battle with Contreras and is coming off a ten round unanimous decision over Alejandro Valladares on December 11th.

Said Chet Koerner, President of TKO Boxing Promotions, “We scouted Francisco back in the Dominican Republic and we knew what a beast he was. ShoBox fans and the crowd at the Chumash Casino have a great opportunity to see what we believe is a future world champion in his network debut.”

Now based in Irvington, New Jersey, Contreras is guided by award winning manager Cameron Dunkin.


RAYONTA WHITFIELD VS. SERGIO ESPINOZA HEADLINES SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27TH IN AUGUSTA, GEORGIA

MICKEY BEY JR IN CO-MAIN SENSATIONAL PROSPECTS JOSEPH ELEGELE, AND ROBERT RODRIGUEZ ON UNDERCARD

AUGUSTA, GA (February 5, 2010) World ranked flyweight contender Rayonta “STINGRAY” Whitfield will battle Sergio Espinoza for the NABO Flyweight Title on Saturday, February 27th at the Bell Auditorium, it was announced today by TKO Boxing Promotions

Advance tickets will go on sale at 10am Friday morning, February 5th, priced from $27 to $102 (including a $2.00 facility fee), through the Augusta Entertainment Complex Box Office, (www.georgialinatix.com, by phone at 1-877-4AUGTIX or in person at the Augusta Entertainment Complex Box Office, 601 Seventh Street).

A $5.00 in person box office discount for all military, police and fire personnel along with college students with proper ID is available in all price ranges until February 26th. The Bell Auditorium is located at 712 Telfair Street in Augusta, Georgia; doors on the evening of the event will open at 6:30pm with the first bell at 7:30pm.

A press conference to announce the event was held this past Tuesday at Mayor Deke Copenhaver’s office in Augusta .

Said Augusta native Whitfield, “I’m thrilled to be fighting for the NABO Flyweight Title against Sergio Espinoza, but most importantly I’m very happy and proud to be able to fight at home in front of my family and friends. The support that I receive here at home is outstanding and I’m looking forward to putting on a great performance in my hometown on February 27th.

Mayor Copenhaver was effusive with his praise for Whitfield, “We’re all very proud of Rayonta. He’s accomplished a great deal both as an amateur and professional, and Augusta looks forward to cheering him on in his bout against Espinoza on the 27th.”

The 28 year old Whitfield, 23-1-0 (11KO’s) is currently world ranked #4 by the IBF and #5 by the WBO. He is coming off an eight round unanimous decision win over Evaristo Primero on October 10th in Houston .

On February 7, 2009, Whitfield battled WBO champion Omar Navarez in Chubut, Argentina evenly over nine rounds before the bout was abruptly halted in the champions’ hometown although Whitfield was unhurt and fully able to continue in the battle.

Hailing from San Diego, California, the 31 year old Espinoza brings a record of 16-6-1 with five knockouts into the title bout with Whitfield. Espinoza is a staple in the highly competitive Southern California boxing scene where he is known for his numerous world class battles over his nine year professional career.

The co-main event will feature outstanding junior lightweight prospect Mickey Bey Jr. in a ten round bout for the WBO Inter-Continental Title. After a highly successful amateur career, the 26 year old Cleveland, Ohio native has amassed an undefeated professional record of

15-0-0 (8KO’s). Last year, amongst his three wins was an eight round decision over highly regarded prospect Rashad Ganaway on August 22nd in Houston, Texas.

The undercard includes outstanding newcomers; welterweight Joseph Elegele, 3-0-0 (2KO’s) of Melbourne, Florida and junior featherweight Robert Rodriguez, 1-0-0, from Greeley, Colorado. Additional bouts and further details on the undercard will be announced shortly.

By Vivek Wallace - As long as many of us can remember, the month of March has been synonymous with college basketball. For the first time in a long time, the world of sports will offer a variable to the popular "March Madness", starting with a 'Final Four' that none of us had any idea we'd ever actually see. All around the world fight fans were far less than happy, some even pledging to ditch the sport altogether, as a result of the broken negotiations between P4P contenders Floyd Mayweather jr. and Manny Pacquiao. The old adage states that "you must go through the rain to reach the rainbow". There was never a more reciprocal element displayed of this statement than the one that recently played out in the world of boxing. After all the hype, drama, and eccentrics to follow, the final product of those flat-lined negotiations is a stellar showdown in Dallas Cowboys Stadium between Filipino Manny Pacquiao and Ghana native Joshua Clottey, followed by a showdown between American Floyd Mayweather jr. and a man who needs little introduction.......American 'Sugar' Shane Mosley. A closer analysis shows us that college hoops isn't the only sport to play a role in this first half of the 2010 calendar year in boxing, as despite the late arrival, an April showdown between Bernard Hopkins and Roy Jones Jr. clearly tips a hat to two men once referred to as the 'Masters'. Granted, most would rather pass on this late-to-bloom showdown, but sticking to the 'Masters' wordplay, perhaps the true link here (as it relates to this welterweight eliminator), is one intricate piece which remains missing from the mega fight landscape - a man who resides in the city which gave birth to the tournament itself, Paul Williams of Augusta, GA..

At any rate, once the #1 seed (Pacquiao) squares off against the #4 seed (Clottey) and when the smoke clears, the beginning of May brings an end to the first round as our #2 seed (Mayweather) squares off against the #3 seed (Mosley). Several questions loom relative to whether or not we'll be able to actually see a round two - particularly if Mayweather and Pacquiao advance - but even more questions loom relative to whether or not those two men will in fact advance, to begin with. In Shane Mosley, Floyd Mayweather jr. will face not only a bona fide Hall-of-Famer, but easily and arguably the most complete fighter he has EVER faced. Many take their dislike of Mayweather and use it to discredit those on his resume, but the likes of a young and then undefeated Corrales (RIP) can't be denied; neither can victories over an undefeated Hatton, Genaro Hernandez, Jesus Chavez, Judah, and others. That being said, none of those men represent what Mosley does. Neither in talent, or in the sport.

Aside from the substance abuse stories that linked him in a very unfortunate case, Mosley has embodied everything this sport is built on. A full arsenal of talent, ranging from speed and power, to a granite chin and a warrior spirit that has yet to abandon him when he needed it the most. All of those tools, coupled with a never-ceasing will to be the best and a trainer whose intelligence exceeds any of our expectations time and time again can lead to a long night for any opponent. As great as he is, that list could include Floyd Mayweather jr., as well. But that's what makes this bout one for the ages. As dynamic as we've seen Mosley, it's virtually impossible not to identify the fact that Mayweather remains that perennial force with a sheer ability to evoke every raw emotion of a fan ever known to man. Love....respect.....hate....neglect.....contempt beyond measure, but room for questions never; as in the end, the one thing you do expect from him, whether you love him or hate him, is near flawless execution. This challenge from Mosley will be a rare glimpse into a side of Mayweather that many have wanted to see, yet never really have. With such a strong command of the 'sweet science', few have been able to get Mayweather off of his blueprint. With little room for era and Father-time him to face the proverbial 'westside' of his career, Mosley knows he will have to be the one to turn that still photo into a motion picture if he wants us to see his deepest vision. Right now, it's just a script, but on the night of May 1st, one of these men will have to assume the bigger role. One loves the spotlight, the other is known to perform under pressure, but only one can win! As they say in Hollywood.....Lights, Camera, Action.....(now) TAKE ONE!

(Vivek Wallace can be reached at vivexemail@yahoo.com, 954-292-7346, YouTube (VIVEK1251), Twitter (VIVEK747), Facebook, and Myspace).

Photo: BWAA Fighter of the Decade MANNY "PacMan" PACQUIAO (r) presents Hollywood action hero STEVEN SEAGAL with a hand-painted commemorative boxing glove featuring the likeness of PacMan.

HOLLYWOOD, CALIF (February 5, 2010) – STEVEN SEAGAL, one of Hollywood’s most popular box office action heroes and the star of A&E’s wildly-popular reality series Steven Seagal Lawman, was a dinner guest of seven-division world champion and three-time Fighter of the Year MANNY "Pacman" PACQUIAO earlier this week.. A 7th degree black belt and Aikido master, as well as an accomplished blues musician with two albums under his belt, Seagal and Pacquiao had plenty of common interests to discuss.

“We had a great time together. The time just flew by,” said Pacquiao. “We discussed the possibility of working together in movies and making joint concert appearances. We also discovered that we share a bond in Asian philosophy and philanthropy. I invited Steven to be with me at Jerry Jones’ Cowboys Stadium on March 13 when I defend my world welterweight title against Joshua Clottey and he accepted.”

Seagal, who has made over 20 motion pictures, grossing over $2 billion in worldwide box office receipts, has also been a fully commissioned deputy with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in Louisiana for almost 20 years. In addition to going out on patrol, Seagal is an expert marksman who has worked with their SWAT team and has instructed Jefferson Parish officers in firearms and hand-to-hand combat. The debut episode of Steven Seagal Lawman attracted a record. 3.5 million viewers, making it A&E’s most-watched original series premiere.

#Promoted by Top Rank, in association with the Dallas Cowboys and Tecate, THE EVENT: Pacquiao vs. Clottey, World Welterweight Championship, will take place Saturday, March 13 and will be produced and distributed live on HBO Pay-Per-View®, beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Remaining Tickets to THE EVENT: Pacquiao vs. Clottey, priced at $700, $500, $300, $200, $100, and $50, can be purchased in-person at the Cowboys Stadium box office in Arlington, or by calling Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com.

THE EVENT: Pacquiao vs. Clottey pay-per-view telecast, beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, has a suggested retail price of $49.95, will be produced and distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View® and will be available to more than 71 million pay-per-view homes. The telecast will be available in HD-TV for those viewers who can receive HD. HBO Pay-Per-View®, a division of Home Box Office, Inc., is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For Pacquiao vs. Clottey fight week updates, log on to www.hbo.com or www.toprank.com .

HOBOKEN, N.J. (Feb. 5, 2010) –Unbeaten Wilfredo “WV2” Vazquez, Jr., the proud son of 2-time world champion Wilfredo Vazquez, Sr., plans to make Puerto Rican history Feb. 27 when he fights the 19-year-old being billed in the Philippines as the next Manny Pacquaio, “Marvelous” Marvin Sonsona, for the vacant World Boxing Organization (WBO junior featherweight title, headlining one of two sensational shows airing on pay-per-view in North America..

The double-barrelled “The Double Assault” is presented by PR Best Boxing Promotions in Puerto Rico, in association with All Star Boxing and Sampson Boxing LLC, and KO Entertainment in Cancun, Mexico. The unique broadcast is being distributed in the United States and Canada by Integrated Sports for live viewing at 9 PM/ET – 6 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, TVN, DISH Network, Viewer’s Choice and Shaw PPV for a suggested retail price of only $34.95.

The action starts at 9 PM/ET live from Reben Rodriquez Coliseum in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, with hometown hero Vazquez, Jr. (17-0-1, 14 KOs) taking on former WBO Super Flyweight champion Sonsona (14-0-1, 12 KOs) for the vacant WBO junior featherweight belt. Unbeaten cruiserweight prospect Carlos Negron (7-0, 6 KOs), 2008 Puerto Rican Olympian, provides chief support in a 6-round bout against an opponent to be determined.

Vazquez, Jr., the WBO Latino super bantamweight champion, is rated No. 2 by the WBO, while former WBO super flyweight titlist Sonsona is ranked No. 3.

“This is a very important fight because we will make history in Puerto Rico by being the first father and son World Champions, also with the same promoter (Tuto Zabala, Jr.),” Vazquez, Jr. explained. “I will leave everything in the ring to accomplish it. Sonsona is a very good boxer. It will be a good fight for fans to watch. I have trained very hard and I hope he did, too. He had a strong amateur background and I had no amateur fights, but they chose the wrong opponent to move up in weight to fight. Nothing is personal, it’s all business.

“There’s no added pressure on me because of my father. It’s different times. I see him as my father and trainer. I am relaxed and will do this for my family. For boxing fans who haven’t seen me, you will see me focused to secure his family’s future. I am a young, exciting fighter. I will win, by decision or knockout.”

Vazquez, Sr. was a great bantamweight and super bantamweight in the late eighties and early nineties who had a pro record of 56-9-2 (41 KOs). “I am happy and proud,” he said about his son. We will make history February 27. No pressure, I trust Tuto Zabala, Jr. like nobody else. We will win. My son fights like me. He inherited my punching power and he punches like a junior welterweight. He does his own thing but I feel he fights like me or even better. Fighting was easier, no doubt, than watching my son fight.”

The spotlight will then shift to El Polyforim Benito Juarez in Cancun, Mexico, where former WBA light heavyweight champion Hugo Hernan “Pigu” Garay takes on highly world rated “Hard Hittin’” Chris Henry for the WBA Interim light heavyweight title. Former WBA & WBC super flyweight title-holder Cristian Mijares drops back down to his natural weight class versus TBA.

Garay (32-4, 17 KOs), rated No. 3 by the WBA, is a popular Argentinean who defeated Yuri Barashian by decision for the WBA light heavyweight title in 2008, successfully defended against present WBO Interim champion Juergen Braehmer by decision, and then lost his belt by decision last June to Gabriel Campillo.

WBA No. 4-ranked Henry, fighting out of Houston, is coming off of an explosive win by sixth-round technical knockout of Shaun George last July on ESPN. Henry has been the NABF, NABA, IBA Inter-Continental and USNBC light heavyweight champion during the past four years.

Mexican boxer Mijares, rated No. 5 by the WBA and No. 14 by the IBF, was one of the world’s top pound-for-pound boxers after winning a decision against Alexander Munoz in their 2008 WBC/WBA super flyweight unification match.

Integrated Sports Media: North America’s leading distributor of International Pay-Per-View and Closed Circuit sports events has presented World Championship and world-class boxing matches featuring Ricky Hatton, Christian Mijares, Evander Holyfield, Roy Jones, Jr., Ivan Calderon, Rocky Martinez, Nicolai Valuev, Amir Kahn, Marco Antonio Barrera, Arthur Abraham, David Haye, John Ruiz, and Ruslan Chagaev. In addition, Integrated Sports Media distributed numerous International soccer matches showcasing teams like Club America of Mexico and the National Teams of Argentina, Honduras, El Salvador and the USA, as well as World Championship and world-class mixed martial arts shows featuring Fedor Emelianenko, Tim Sylvia, Bobby Lashley, Bob Sapp, Jeff Monson, and Roy Nelson. For more information on upcoming Integrated Sports events visit www.integratedsportsnet.com.


Orion Sports Presents Sonsona-Vasquez on Feb. 27

TORONTO, ON (Feb. 4, 2010) – Orion Sports Management, one of Canada’s top boxing promotional companies, presents a star-studded night of world championship boxing, featuring a pair of world title fights, Saturday night, Feb. 27, from Bayamon, Puerto Rico and Juarez, Mexico, live on Viewers’ Choice Pay Per View, and Shaw Cable.

The action starts at 9 PM/ET live from Bayamon’s Ruben Rodriquez Coliseum, as Orion’s own, rock-fisted former WBO Super Flyweight champion “Marvelous” Marvin Sonsona (14-0-1, 12 KO’s) faces hard-hitting hometown hero Wilfredo “WV2” Vasquez, Jr. (17-0-1, 14 KO’s) for the vacant WBO Junior Featherweight belt.

Sonsona, a native of General Santos City, in the Philippines, quickly endeared himself to Canadian fight fans in 2009, with two scintillating performances at Casino Rama, in Rama, Ontario.

Last September, the baby-faced 19 year-old Sonsona showed his true fighting mettle, dethroning reigning WBO Super Flyweight champion Jose “Carlito” Lopez, over twelve grueling, action-packed rounds.

Just three months later, Sonsona followed up his title winning conquest of Lopez, with an equally courageous 12 round split decision draw with challenger Alejandro Hernandez.

Prior to the fight, Sonsona, who had grown two inches in height since defeating Lopez, was forced to relinquish his title on the scale, despite several determined attempts to make the 115 lb. Super Flyweight limit.

“Marvin has already shown that he’s amongst the best young fighters in the world,” said Allan Tremblay, President of Orion Sports Management.

“He has incredible power, unyielding heart, a chin of iron, and an unquenchable desire to keep learning and improving. But he’s facing an unbelievable young fighter in his own right, in Wilfredo Vasquez Jr.”

“This fight should tell us who the best young undefeated fighter in the world truly is.”

In the evening’s co-feature, the spotlight will shift to El Poloforim Benito Juarez in Cancun, Mexico, where former WBA Light Heavyweight champion Hugo Hernan “Pigu” Garay takes on highly world rated “Hard Hittin’” Chris Henry for the WBA Interim light heavyweight title.

Also, former WBA & WBC super flyweight title-holder Cristian Mijares drops back down to his natural weight class versus TBA.

“Asalto Doble” is presented by PR Best Boxing Promotions in Puerto Rico, in association with Orion Sports Management, SGG Sports Promotions, Warriors Boxing, All Star Boxing, Sampson Boxing LLC, and KO Entertainment in Cancun, Mexico. The unique, double-barreled broadcast is being distributed in the United States and Canada by Integrated Sports for live viewing at 9 PM/ET – 6 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, TVN, DISH Network, Viewer’s Choice and Shaw PPV for a suggested retail price of only $34.95.

There’s no love lost between Vasquez (17-0-1, 14 KOs), the proud son of former world champion Wilfredo Vasquez (56-9-2, 41 KOs – WBA bantamweight champ 1987-88, WNA super bantamweight champ 1992-95), and the fighter being billed in the Philippines as the next Manny Pacquaio, 19-year-old Sonsona (14-0-1, 12 KOs).

Vasquez, rated No. 2 by the WBO, and WBO No. 3 ranked Sonsona are fighting for the world title vacated by Juan Manuel Lopez. Vasquez is the reigning WBO Latino junior featherweight champion.

Garay (32-4, 17 KOs), rated No. 2 by the WBA, defeated Yuri Barashian by decision for the WBA light heavyweight title in 2008, successfully defended against present WBO Interim champion Juergen Braehmer by decision, and the popular Argentinean lost his belt by decision last June to Gabriel Campillo.

WBA No. 6-ranked Henry, fighting out of Houston, is coming off of an explosive win by sixth-round technical knockout of Shaun George last July on ESPN. Henry has been the NABF, NABA, IBA Inter-Continental and USNBC light heavyweight champion during the past four years.

Mexican boxer Mijares, rated No. 5 by the WBA and No. 14 by the IBF, was one of the world’s top pound-for-pound boxers after winning a decision against Alexander Munoz in their 2008 WBC/WBA super flyweight unification match. He unsuccessfully moved up to fight as a bantamweight and has dropped back to super flyweight.


Eric Hunter Added to a Loaded Card this Friday Night at the Legendary Blue Horizon

What do you get when you have a boxing card that features the Former World Jr. Amateur champion; European Amateur Champion; the USBA Jr. Middleweight champion; a U.S. Olympic Alternate; National Women’s Amateur champion; an undefeated (7-0) Welterweight plus two potential slugfests featuring four Philly fighters?

All those ingredients will be stirred up into one boxing card this Friday night at The Legendary Blue Horizon that will make up the annual Valentine’s Day show.

The card is promoted by Vernoca L. Michael and Blue Horizon Boxing Inc.

The American Red Cross will be present and is encouraging the boxing fans of Philadelphia to help in the relief efforts after the devastating earthquake in Haiti that took place last month.

Just added today, former U.S. Olympic Alternate, Eric ‘The Outlaw’ Hunter will take on former world title challenger Roberto Bonilla in a six round Featherweight bout.

The main event will feature USBA Jr. Middleweight champion, Derek ‘Pooh’ Ennis battling Edwin Vazquez in a non-title bout scheduled for eight rounds.

Hunter, of Philadelphia has a record of 11-1 with four knockouts is still regarded as one of the top Featherweight prospects as the ‘Outlaw’ is still just twenty-three years old and six straight wins since his only blemish when he dropped a six round split decision to Carlos Vinan back in 2007.

Hunter was a 2004 United States Olympic Alternate after he racked an amazing 187-4 record as an amateur.

Bonilla of Nicaragua has a record of 22-11 with thirteen knockouts and will definitely present a test stern test for Hunter as Bonilla has fought some of the biggest names of the lower weight classes.

In Bonilla’s eighth fight he scored a sixth round knockout over former world title challenger Adonis Cruz (31-5-2).

Bonilla has shared the ring with Joel Luna Zarate (33-3-2); former IBF Bantamweight champion Luis Perez (19-1); Perennial contender Ricardo Vargas (36-9-3); in back to fights he lost to former world title challengers Evert Briceno (15-0) and Cecilio Santos (14-3-2).

The tough sledding was only just beginning for Bonilla as he has dropped five straight but to look at those five opponents any boxing fan could tell that Bonilla has been thrown to the wolves as that list reads:

In a bid to win the WBA Super Bantamweight title, Bonilla was defeated by top-ten pound for pound fighter Celestino Caballero (23-2); Former World Title challenger Rey Bautista (19-0); Former two-time world champion Oscar Larios (56-5-1); Daniel Diaz (14-1) and in Bonilla’s most recent bout he dropped a ten round unanimous decision to former world champion Eric Morel (40-2) on March 28, 2009.

In the main event, Ennis (19-2-1, 12 KO’s) takes on Vazquez (22-14-2, 8 KO’s)

Undefeated Welterweight, Ronald Cruz (7-0, 4 KO’s) takes on the upset specialist Martinus Clay (13-23-4, 5 KO’s) in a six round bout.

Former World Junior Amateur champion Joey Dawejko (1-0) makes his long awaited area debut when he takes on Ricardo Johnson (1-0) in a four round Heavyweight bout.

In what looks to be a Cruiserweight slugfest of Philadelphians, Tim Johnson (4-1, 2 KO’s) takes on Charles Hayward (2-2, 1 KO) in a bout scheduled for four rounds

Former European Heavyweight amateur champion, Andreas Gustafsson of Sweden, who holds an amateur win over currant WBA Heavyweight champion David Haye, will risk his 3-0 record against Levay King (0-1) in a Heavyweight bout scheduled for four rounds.

In a battle of Philadelphia Jr. Welterweights, Clemente Bethea makes his pro debut against Henry Northan (0-1) in a bout scheduled for four rounds.

Former U.S. ladies Amateur champion, Jackie Davis (3-0) takes on Melisenda Perez (6-1, 4 KO’s) in a bout scheduled for four rounds in the Welterweight division

QUOTES FROM WEDNESDAY’S PRESS CONFERENCE

Billy Briscoe (Trainer for Martinus Clay)—Martinus will fight anybody. It doesn’t matter because a fight is a fight. He will take this young boy into deep waters and drown him. Cruz will find out how tough it is to go from fighting somebody who is 1-4 to someone who has forty fights and who has fought some of the best fighters on the planet

Clemente Bethea—I am excited to what I have to do. I would like to thank promoter Vernoca Michael, who has already made an impact on me and things I need to do outside the ring.

Charles Heyward—I have trained extra hard for this fight. Tim Johnson better watch out on Friday night.

Joey Dawejko—I am really looking forward to my hometown debut.

Local Sports caster Keith Russell of ABC 6 will be a guest ring announcer

THE FIGHT CARD WILL BE BROADCASTED ON WWW.GOFIGHTLIVE.TV FOR A PRICE OF JUST $5.99

Tickets are going fast for this exciting boxing event. The perfect pre-Valentine gift for your boxing enthusiast.

Ticket prices for this great night of boxing are $200 for Queen Seating, $125 for Presidential Seats, $65 for VIP Seating, $55 for Ringside Seating and $45 for General Admission Seating. Tickets can be purchased by calling 215-763-0500 or through PayPal by clicking www.legendarybluehorizon.com/html/tickets.html Doors open at 6:30 PM / First Bout begins at 7:30 P.M.

by Geoffrey Ciani - This past week’s edition of On the Ropes featured exclusive interviews with Eddie Chambers, Jason Estrada, Roland Estrada, and Jesse Brinkley. Highlighting this episode was a nice conversation with the number one ranked heavyweight, Eddie Chambers, who is slated to challenge Wladimir Klitschko for his WBO and IBF heavyweight championship belts. Here are some excerpts from the Chambers interview:

On his recent victory against then undefeated heavyweight contender, Alexander Dimitrenko:
“The performance was pretty good. I give myself about a solid B, and the reason is because there were things I was doing in this here fight and it wouldn’t fly with Wladimir. I was standing in front of him too much, my legs were too straight and stiff, and I didn’t move as much as I should have been moving both to the target and away from the target.”

Regarding how the Dimitrenko fight has helped prepare him for Wladimir Klitschko:
“I think that Dimitrenko’s only thing was he wasn’t as strong. I guess that would mean his physical attributes weren’t up to par with Wladimir, but his ability, his boxing skills, his speed, his movement were—I don’t want to say more so than Wladimir, but at least on par with what he had. It’s just that he didn’t have the experience and he wasn’t ready for what I was bringing to the table.. I’m not sure that Wladimir will be either, but it’s definitely a situation in that fight right there that was the perfect fight to put me in a position to fight Wladimir. He’s not a mirror image of Wladimir, but close enough—something similar enough to keep the good things and throw away the bad.”

Jason Estrada

by James Slater - Former IBF cruiserweight champion Tomasz Adamek of Poland, 39-1(27) has big plans. Now campaigning as a heavyweight, the 33-year-old, who stopped countryman Andrew Golota inside five-rounds in his debut at the new weight back in October, has his eyes on top contender Chris Arreola and reigning heavyweight champions the Klitschko brothers.

It's no secret how "Goral" and his team are looking ahead to a fight with Arreola in April (RingTV.com has an article up now, reporting how the fight is in negotiations), yet this is before the 34-1(18) tough guy has even won his next fight - taking place tomorrow against former Olympian and natural heavyweight Jason "Big Six" Estrada.. All the big plans Adamek has depend on his being able to defeat Estrada in Newark, New Jersey in just over 24-hours time.

Estrada, 16-2(4) has very much become the forgotten man in tomorrow's fight. All talk surrounds Adamek, and whether or not the former light-heavyweight (where he also held a title) and cruiserweight can add excitement to the heavyweights. This overconfidence (if Adamek is overlooking Estrada) could well prove to be a mistake.

For although Adamek is the favourite to win tomorrow and then most likely walk into his big fight with the Mexican/American slugger known as "The Nightmare," tomorrow's fight is no gimme for the Polish warrior. Estrada, though no big puncher, has excellent skills, fast hands and reflexes, he has way more experience at heavyweight and he is also the younger man by four years. Is it not possible that Estrada, who looks to have worked himself into the best shape of his pro career (at least judging by the recent photos I've seen; we'll know more via the official weigh-in) could outbox the smaller man and win a decision?

Estrada told this writer a while back how he actually feels he may stop Adamek, suggesting part of the reason for this is the number of tough and ageing fights the once-beaten Pole has had. While that would be a big shock, an Estrada points win, while also an upset, would not be a stunner. And the man from Rhode Island really would be spoiling a lot of exciting plans if he did get the win tomorrow night!

Estrada may not have done too much at pro level (yet?) but we must not forget his quite superb amateur pedigree. Having literally hundreds of amateur fights, in a number of different countries and against all manner of talent, Estrada learnt his trade well. A letdown at the Olympics in 2004, the heavyweight contender has yet to fulfil his potential in the paid ranks also. Could the Adamek fight result in the perforamnce where he does so?

Set for 12-rounds, with the IBF international title at stake, tomorrow's clash looks sure to be interesting. Adamek will almost certainly pressure Estrada from the opening bell, while "Big Six" will likely box and move (unless he stuns us all in a major way and goes toe-to-toe with Adamek, looking for that KO he told me he feels he could get), looking to frustrate and outclass his rival. I expect the early rounds to belong to Adamek, while the middle rounds will see Estrada up on his toes winning his share of points.

How the later rounds go could well be crucial. Will Estrada be able to keep his classy, fast-handed boxing going, or will Adamek's relentless pressure get him the win? Though many will probably disagree with me, I see a distance fight tomorrow. My pick is for Adamek to prevail by decision, but in no way do I see an easy fight for him. If, however, Adamek - who, like Estrada, also has a good amateur background - HAS overlooked his second heavyweight opponent, there could be an upset.

The Adamek - Estrada fight is on! There was barely a dusting of snow in Newark, NJ, the streets are clear. Tickets in the lower bowl have completely sold out, but Prudential Center will continue to open up sections of $53 seats as long as there is a demand..

An exciting card is on hand, including the IBF Heavyweight International Championship fight featuring Tomasz "Goral" Adamek, Gilowice, Poland & Jersey City, NJ, 39-1, 27 KO's, vs. Jason "Big Six" Estrada, Providence, R.I., 16-2, 4 KO's. Doors open at 7:00pm. The first fight will begin at 7:10pm. Tickets can be purchased at Prudential Center Box Office, or by calling TicketMaster 800-745-3000 until 6pm. Visit www.prucenter.com for more info.


Heavyweight Maurice Harris going back to future

NEW YORK (Feb. 5, 2010) – Veteran heavyweight Maurice “Sugar Moe” Harris, inactive for the previous 26 months, recently returned to the ring (Jan. 29) in Albuquerque, impressively winning a 6-round unanimous decision (60-54, 60-54, 58-56) against battle-tested Billy “The Kid” Zumbrun.

The 33-year-old Harris (21-14-2, 10 KOs), winner of the “2002 Thunderbox Heavyweight Tournament,” had fought only four times in the past seven years due to his promotional/managerial problems. His comeback is under the banner of his new promoter, Boxing 360.

“I had a lot of rust to work off,” New Jersey native Harris said. “I did what I had to do to win, getting in the rounds and not looking for the knock out. He’s a strong guy with a hard head. I shook him a couple of times, but he kept his left hand high, and it was tough to hit him solid.

“I needed the work. I’m going to stay busy because that’s the philosophy of my promoter, Boxing 360. We’re taking it slow; no rush getting to the top. Being with Boxing 360 is like night and day compared to my old promoters.”

In 2002, Harris knocked out previously unbeaten and future world title-holder Sergey Lyakhovich (16-0) in the ninth round, earning Harris a slot in that November’s “Thunderbox” tournament, in which he captured the $100,000 winner’s purse by out-pointing Gerald Nobles, Israel Garcia and Anthony Thompson, respectively, in 3-round matches during the same night of boxing.

Maurice’s up-and-down career includes victories against David Izon, Jimmy Thunder and Jeremy Williams, as well as Harris going the distance with world champions Larry Holmes and Chris Byrd.

“It felt good getting in the ring again,” Maurice concluded. “I felt good, considering the jet lag and high altitude, but overall I’m happy with my performance. Watch-out heavyweights, I’m coming.”


Kolle Defeats Coleman

MN Middleweight champ Andy Kolle (20-2, 15 KO's) stopped Pat "The Cat" Coleman earlier tonight at First Avenue in Minneapolis. Coleman was crafty, but it was the 27 year old Kolle that controlled the ring like a veteran. Kolle went to the body in the early rounds but slowly began to shift his attack upstairs as the rounds went by. Kolle put Coleman down in round 4 with a straight left. By the start of round 5, Coleman's left eye was swelling, bloody and closing. Coleman was able to survive the fifth but told referee Mark Nelson he couldn't see in-between rounds and the fight was halted.

NOTE: WEIGHTS (Feb. 5, 2010) – World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight champ Edwin Valero and WBC 135-pound interim titleholder Antonio DeMarco both weighed in at 135 pounds during Friday’s weigh in the Arena Monterrey in Monterrey, Mexico. The hard-hitting Valero will face the once-beaten DeMarco in the main event this Saturday, Feb. 6, on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast) from the Arena Monterrey in Monterrey, Mexico.

Valero (26-0, 26 KOs), of Merida, Venezuela, is a two-time champ who has knocked out 100 percent of his opponents. He will be making the second defense of his WBC title against Tijuana’s Demarco (23-1-1, 17 KOs).

In the 10-round co-feature, Luis Carlos Abregu (28-0, 23 KOs), of Salta, Argentina will meet Richard Gutierrez (24-3, 14 KO’s), of Miami, Florida, via Arjona, Colombia, in a welterweight bout. Both Abregu and Gutierrez weighed in at the 147 pound welterweight limit..

LAS VEGAS, NV (February 4) . . . Tickets for the long awaited rematch of future Hall of Famers Bernard "The Executioner" Hopkins and Roy "The Terminator" Jones Jr. go on sale tomorrow, Friday, February 5 at 10:00 a.m. PT. The Rivals: Hopkins vs. Jones II is set for Saturday, April 3 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nev. and will be broadcast live on pay-per-view beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Tickets priced at $750, $500, $300, $200 and $100 go on sale TOMORROW, Friday, February 5 at 10:00 am PT and will be available for purchase 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 will be available for purchase at www.mandalaybay.com or www.ticketmaster.com..

Hopkins (50-5-1, 32 KOs) and Jones (54-6, 40 KOs), heated rivals and two of boxing's most decorated and recognizable fighters, will put it all on the line and leave no doubt as to who gets to take bragging rights as the best. Both men have given fans more than two decades worth of brilliant ring memories and will each look to add another victory under their belts on April 3.

For more information regarding the April 3 event, please visit www.goldenboypromotions.com.

NEW YORK (February 4, 2010) – Arthur Pelullo and Gary Shaw, presidents of Banner Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions, respectively, announced the signing of undefeated World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior middleweight world champion SERGIY “Razor” DZINZIRUK to an exclusive promotional agreement. Boasting matinee idol looks, Dzinziruk (36-0, 22 KOs), the division’s longest-reigning champion, is a native of Ukraine currently fighting out of Hamburg, Germany. He captured the WBO title in 2005, sending defending champion Daniel Santos to the canvas in the eighth round en route to a unanimous decision victory and the world championship belt..

Dzinziruk’s four-year title reign has included five successful defenses against a roster of top-rated contenders who had a combined record of 126-7-2 (98 KOs) – a winning percentage of over 93% and a victory by knockout ratio exceeding 77% -- when he fought them. His last defense was unanimous decision victory over Joel Julio.

He had an outstanding amateur career, as well. Sergiy represented Ukraine at 147 pounds in the 1996 Olympics at 147 pounds, and was the silver medalist at the 1997 World Champonships.

Pelullo said today, “I’m very excited and pleased to be working with Sergiy Dzinziruk – I think he’s the top junior middleweight in the world. Sergiy wants to come to America. He wants to fight the best opponents possible and unify the world titles. I’m also looking forward to working again with Gary. We’ve been friends for many years and have always worked well together in the past.”

Added Shaw, “No one is safe once they step into the ring with Sergiy. There’s a reason he’s called The Razor. He cuts his opponents up to ribbons. He is one of the brightest lights in boxing’s most exciting division. Artie and I have big plans for him which will include his U.S. debut this spring and setting up his base of operations in Los Angeles where will be taking screen tests. He’s going to become an international sensation.”


MIKE JONES BACK IN CAMP FOR FEB. 27 FIGHT WITH BRUSELES

PHILADELPHIA, PA—Unbeaten Mike Jones, of North Philadelphia, has settled into training camp 30 miles outside of Philadelphia in Langhorne, PA, for his Feb. 27 match at Bally's Atlantic City, NJ, with former world-title challenger Henry Bruseles, of Gurabo, Puerto Rico, for the North American Boxing Association (NABA) welterweight title. Jones splits his workouts between the Newtown Athletic Club in Newtown, PA, and the Hard Rock Gym in Langhorne.

Jones, 27, is ranked No. 8 by the World Boxing Association (WBA), No. 11 by the International Boxing Federation (IBF), No. 16 by the World Boxing Council (WBC). His 19-0 record includes 16 knockouts.

Bruseles, 29, is 28-3-1, 15 K0s. He has won his last seven fights, scoring wins over Ben Tackie, Wilfredo Negron, Mario Ramos and Robert Frankel. Bruseles has been stopped once, by Floyd Mayweather.

Two other major fights on the card feature: Kendall Holt, of Paterson, NJ, vs. Kaizer Mabuza, of Johannesburg, South Africa, 12 rounds, IBF junior welterweight eliminator; Saul Roman, of Tijuana, Mexico, vs. Gabriel Rosado, of Philadelphia, PA, 10 rounds, junior middleweights.

Four preliminary fights complete the show, which begins at 8pm.

The Jones-Bruseles fight and the Roman-Rosado fight will be televised live by Fox Sports Espanol and Fox Sports Net (
FSN) beginning at 10 pm as part of the Top Rank Live series.

Top Rank in association with Peltz Boxing is promoting the show.

Tickets are priced at $50 and $75. They are on sale at the offices of Peltz Boxing Promotions, Inc. (215-765-0922) or online at www.peltzboxing.com.


Al Bernstein Joins Celebration of Joe Gans

Friday, February 26, 2010 Sports Legends Museum at Camden Yards will host a fundraiser for the Great Blacks in Wax Museum. Funds will go to a Joe Gans wax statue. Join us as we celebrate the life and legacy of Baltimore native Joe Gans, the first Afro-American boxing champion from 8pm- 11pm.

Tickets are $50 (general admission) and $100(VIP) which includes private time with celebrities such as Showtime boxing commentator Al Bernstein, NBC “Homicide:Life On The Street” TV star Clayton LeBouef, Joe Gans book author Colleen Aycock and 2-time former boxing champion William Joppy. Retired Baltimore Colts, Ravens, and Orioles players will be on hand along with MMA combatants. Tickets include catered food from Michael’s Eigth Avenue, cash bar, silent auction and live blues music from international blues musician Chaz DePaolo.

For ticket sales call Whitney Edmonds(410)727-1539 ext 3033
whitneye@baberuthmuseum.com

by James Slater - 36-year-old "Fast" Fres Oquendo, the former two-time heavyweight title challenger, is set to get back in action in Indiana on February 20th. Hoping to get one more crack at a world title, the 31-5(20) contender who has been in with top names such as Evander Holyfield and James Toney (who many people thought Fres beat on points a while back) wants to challenge one of the Klitschko brothers.

Taking his upcoming fight with 25-year-old Demetrice King very seriously, Oquendo would like nothing more than to get in with one of the two brothers right after this bout. First, though, he must beat King - a man who has bee stopped just once as a pro.

Very kindly taking the time to speak with me earlier today, Fres gave the following answers to my questions:

James Slater: It's great to speak with you, Fres. I appreciate your time. First of all, what do you know about Demetrice King, who you are fighting on February 20th?

Fres Oquendo: I don't know too much about him actually. I heard he's been beating a number of top prospects in the heavyweight division, and I know he's no pushover. He's dangerous, he can punch and at this stage I take all fights very seriously. Every fight I have is like a title fight really. I'm ready to do my job on February 20th.

J.S: Are you glad to be getting back into action?

F.O: Oh, yes. It's been a while since I last fought - last July, against former WBA champion Bruce Seldon. I'm happy to be back and I'm looking forward to putting on a spectacular show in this fight.

J.S: What is the ideal goal? To get in with a top contender, or go for a title fight after you get past this next fight?

F.O: I feel I'm a fighter who has paid his dues - I've already proven my worth. I'm a warrior and I've always taken all challenges. I'm getting ready for another hard fight right now, and then I'd like a fight with Klitschko. A shot at Klitschko next is my dream.

J.S: When you say Klitschko, do you have any preference on which one?

F.O: No, I have no preference - I'd fight either one. They're both the big names right now and I'm eager to mix it up with either one of them. It's my desire to fight for the title again and win it.

J.S: You are on a roll right now, having won five from your last six fights. Some would even say you won all six, because a number of people thought you beat James Toney in December of 2008. Would you take a rematch with Toney if that were offered to you?

F.O: Oh, yeah, in a heartbeat, of course. You missed out Evander Holyfield - that was a bad decision, a controversial decision that went against me (in Nov. 2006). I'd definitely KO Toney if we fought again. I had only one month at the most to get ready for the first fight, and look what I did. If I had the time to train properly, I'd become the first man to KO James Toney. But anyway, that's all coulda, woulda, shoulda. I'm eager to fight the best now and I want a title shot.

J.S: Your manager, Tom Tsatas, says you are better than ever now, that you are matured and in better condition than ever at age 36. You agree with this?

F.O: I must correct you; Tom Tsatas is my former manager, he is my promoter now. Now I'm managed and advised by Gabriel Penagaricano of The WBC - he's my sole advisor and he also advises Miguel Cotto, to name just one more. But, yes, Tom is right about my conditioning right now. My diet is great and I do feel better than ever at 36.

J.S: Getting back to the Demetrice King fight. He's young at 25 and he is coming off a good, 2nd-round TKO win over the 18-0 Bowie Tupou. What type of fight do you expect? King's only been stopped once.

F.O: He's very tough, he's around 240-pounds and he's a naturally rugged guy. But I have the experience - I've been in with the best. I've also had a great camp for this fight. I'm ready to go 12 rounds if necessary, but if a KO comes, then great. If not, I'll dominate all 12 rounds. The victory is the most important thing.

J.S: Do you feel you are hitting harder now, at age 36?

F.O: Yes, I'm a lot more relentless now - putting punches in bunches. I stopped Mark Brown, who's a real tough guy, back in June (of 2009). He's recently beaten Tony Grano, who upset Travis Kauffman. So that says a lot about my power, that I stopped a guy who has just beaten one of the good prospects. This shows the world I definitely have power.

J.S: You say you want a Klitschko fight after this next one; would you not be interested in facing a top name, say a Chris Arreola or a Tony Thompson first?

F.O: Well, there's a lot of politics in the boxing game today. For example, Alexander Povetkin beat everyone in an elimination and earned a shot at Wladimir Klitschko, but due to an injury that was no fault of his own, he didn't get it and Eddie Chambers is instead. Anything can happen. To be the best you must beat the best and I want to fight the best. That's my main desire.

J.S: How do you see Wladimir going against Chambers in March?

F.O: Chambers is fast, we have sparred together before. He has good counter-punches and he can be awkward. Size isn't that important to a certain extent. And Chambers is great against bigger guys anyway. I wouldn't be surprised to see this fight go the distance. But I'd have to pick Wladimir, because of his experience.

J.S: Do you have a timeframe in mind for how long you will continue boxing for, Fres?

F.O: Yes, I don't want to be like Holyfield or Hopkins and fight until I'm in my mid-forties. I want to put my name in the record books by winning the title, and then in two years or so, I'd like to open my own boxing academy. I want to give back, to help kids. Boxing saved me, and I want to do the same for others. I'm actually working on this now, with some city officials here in Chicago. It will be The Fres Oquendo Boxing Academy.

J.S: That's good to hear. It's been a pleasure speaking with you, Fres. For my final question: I'm from the UK, and I'd like to know what you think of David Haye, the new WBA heavyweight champion.

F.O: I've worked with David Haye before, to help him get ready for a couple of fights. He has speed and he has power; I sparred with him. He also proved he had the skill and the technicality to beat Valuev. It would be an honour to fight my former sparring partner who is now a world champion. We worked together in our Miami days. I'd love it if he gave me that opportunity.

J.S: And how do you see his fight with John Ruiz going?

F.O: Haye can't underestimate Ruiz. Ruiz has been in with the best in the world, myself included, and he's always in great shape. Haye can beat him if he fights his fight. I don't think he should go looking for a KO, though. If he fights his fight he will win.

J.S: Thanks again for your time, Fres.

F.O: Thank you my friend.

(thanks to Rachel Charles for arranging this interview)

(COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO.) – The USA Boxing National Championships, the premier amateur boxing event in the United States, will return to Colorado Springs, Colo., July 12-17, for the 2010 edition. Over 200 of the nation’s top Olympic-style boxers in both the male and female divisions will compete in the tournament, which is being presented by the Daniels Fund and co-hosted by the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation..

“We are excited to have the USA Boxing National Championships back in Colorado Springs where the event has been successful,” said Mike Martino, Interim Executive Director. “With the support of the Daniels Fund, the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation and the U.S. Olympic Committee, this event will once again be one of the top sports events in Colorado.”

The USA Boxing National Championships, which moved north to Denver in 2009, will return to its long-time home in Colorado Springs for the 2010 edition. The Pikes Peak region has played host to the tournament in 20 of the last 22 years with the only exceptions being trips to Las Vegas in 2002 and Denver last year.

The first four days of competition will all be contested in Sportscenter I at the U.S. Olympic Training Center with preliminary round competition being contested July 12-14, and semifinal action taking place on July 15. The event will move to the Crowne Plaza Hotel on Saturday with men’s consolation bouts and women’s non-Olympic weight classes final round action being showcased in a matinee session on Saturday afternoon. Saturday night will feature an evening of Olympic-contested action with final round action in both the 10 men’s weight divisions and the three women’s Olympic weight divisions at 7 p.m.

Preliminary and semifinal action is open to the public and free of charge for all attendees. Spectators for the women’s finals on Saturday afternoon are encouraged to bring a donation for the women’s boxing program. Tickets for Saturday night’s action will go on sale on March 1 through www.ticketswest.com and are only $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Preferred seating and VIP tables are available for purchase through the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation at 634-7333 ext. 1009, or Sloane@thesportscorp.org.

“The Sports Corp is genuinely thrilled that the USA Boxing National Championships will return to Colorado Springs, and that we can help host and promote this tremendous event again,” said Dave Palenchar, Chairman of the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation. “Our city has had the honor of hosting this event many times in the past, and each time, it has been a success. We look forward to showcasing the best of America’s Olympic-style boxers in the city that is the home of our Olympic movement as they train and prepare for the 2012 Olympic Games in London.”

The event is being presented by the Daniels Fund for the second straight year and USA Boxing appreciates the tremendous support of the outstanding philanthropic organization. “Bill Daniels wanted young people to have access to quality coaches and sports programs that teach discipline, confidence, and sportsmanship,” said Linda Childears, president and CEO of the Daniels Fund. “As a representative of his legacy, the Daniels Fund is honored to be associated with the USA Boxing National Championships - a positive, inspirational sporting event for Olympic hopefuls.”

Budweiser has signed on as the first gold sponsor for the 2010 USA Boxing National Championships and is returning to the amateur boxing scene following a long history with both USA Boxing and the tournament.

The women’s division will enjoy a historic USA Boxing National Championships following the IOC’s decision to add women’s boxing to the Olympic docket at the 2012 Olympic Games in London, England. Three women’s divisions have been added to Olympic action with the flyweight (106-112 lbs), lightweight (125-132 lbs) and (152-165 lbs) middleweight competitors all earning a shot at Olympic glory. Due to the IOC’s inclusion of women’s boxing, one men’s division was removed and the male boxers will compete in 10 weight classes at the 2010 USA Boxing National Championships.

Several top ranked boxers and returning champions are scheduled to compete in the event, including two-time Olympian and 2007 World Champion Rau’shee Warren (Cincinnati, Ohio) who is currently attempting to become the first U.S. boxer to compete in three Olympic Games. Local and regional qualifiers will take place across the nation to determine the final roster of competitors who will vie for a national title in Colorado Springs.

The USA Boxing National Championships have been held annually since 1888, making it the longest running amateur boxing tournament in the United States, and the event consistently showcases future Olympians and future World Champions. Former champions include Pernell Whitaker, Oscar De La Hoya, Sugar Ray Leonard, Floyd Mayweather, Jr., and Muhammad Ali (as Cassius Clay).

USA Boxing, as the national governing body for Olympic-style boxing, is the United States’ member organization of the International Amateur Boxing Association (AIBA) and a member of the United States Olympic Committee (USOC).


Top Under-19 Boxers to Descend on Cincinnati at the 2010 Under-19 National Championships, February 9-12

(COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO.) – The 2010 Under-19 National Championships are quickly approaching and the nation’s best Under-19 boxers are gearing up for the first major national championship event of 2010. An elite squad of athletes is expected to compete in the event, which will be contested, February 9-12 at the Cincinnati Hyatt Regency Hotel. The tournament has been opened up to include all senior division female boxers and will showcase many of the top female boxers following the IOC’s decision to allow women’s boxing in the 2012 Olympic Games.

Four days of elite Olympic-style boxing action will be contested in Cincinnati with several reigning and former national champions in both the male and female divisions competing in the highly respected event. All of the male winners in Cincinnati will earn a berth in the 2010 Youth World Championships, April 20-May 2 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Sessions will begin at 7 p.m. daily, with preliminary action taking place on Tuesday and Wednesday, semifinal competition being contested on Thursday and final round boxing on Friday. All of the Under-19 National Championships action will take place at the Hyatt Regency Cincinnati. The hotel is playing host to its second major USA Boxing event in the past three years following the Midwestern Trials in 2007.

USA Boxing will host an open training session for the media at 2 p.m. on Monday, February 8 at Cincy MMA and Fitness, with several of the top ranked competitors and local participants running through a final training session and conducting interviews.

The Under-19 National Championships is a critical tournament in the development process of future Olympians and professional world champions. The event, which has taken place since 1983, has featured many of the greats of the sport early in their budding careers. Since its inception, 18 Under-19 National Champions have gone on to represent the United States in the Olympic Games. Three of the 18 Olympians - Meldrick Taylor, David Reid and Andre Ward went on to claim gold medals at the Olympics, two claimed silver medals and four won bronze, including Cincinnati’s own Tim Austin.

Athlete registration is currently ongoing and the full registered list of athletes will be released on Monday.

Under-19 National Championships Open Training Sessio

What: Open training session with top 2010 Under-19 National Championships competitors

When: Monday, February 8 at 2 p.m.

Where: Cincy MMA and Fitness, 5728 Harrison Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45428

by James Slater - Ace trainer Freddie Roach is well known for being a guy who meticulously studies all upcoming opponents for his fighters, and also for having a quite uncanny knack for accurately predicting the outcome of bouts featuring fighters he works with. And, as is to be expected, Roach has recently been spending his time putting Joshua Clottey - next, of course, for his "star pupil," Manny Pacquiao - under the microscope. Freddie has also come out with another prediction that seems pretty hard to accept, but, due to his track record, may well prove to be spot on.

Roach has been watching tons of Clottey on tape, and he is sure his man will not only beat the tough nut from Accra, Ghana; but he has also predicted Manny Pacquiao will KO the former IBF welterweight champ - becoming the first man to have done so. While a good number of fans will no doubt agree with Roach on his first assessment - that Pac-Man will defeat Clottey on March 13th - some fans may not be in the mood to take Freddie at his word on the second statement he's made..

KO'ing the incredibly strong, smart, well tucked up and reliably-chinned 32-year-old is no easy matter, nor will it prove to be for even as lethal a fighter as Pacquiao. In his 39 pro outings, Clottey has never been even remotely close to being stopped by a shot to the head. Becoming the first to do this to him would be one huge statement by the pound-for-pound king, as great as he is.

Though Pac-Man is fast and has one-punch KO power in either fist, it would really be something to see him put Clottey down and keep him there. We've seen the Filipino legend ice guys with one shot in the past (see KO 2 Ricky Hatton), but do this to Clottey, a guy who has the tough-to-crack, hands up defence that is so synonymous with fighters from Africa? I just can't see it. Clottey is a crafty guy, who will maintain his tight defence whenever danger threatens. Indeed, in the past, Clottey has been criticised for not doing enough offensive work. I think this will be what happens in March - with Clottey not taking any chances or making any mistakes when Pacquiao is looking to unload, and tucking up well and going into his shell when under fire. Unlocking this safe will prove to be a hard task for Pac-Man; maybe even a frustratingly hard one.

What must be agreed on though, is how further a KO win over Clottey would cement Pacquiao's already secure place in history. If the southpaw can chop Clottey down the way he has so many other good and great fighters, further accolades will be showered on him. Accolades like, the greatest fighter ever? Maybe.

No-one is saying Clottey is an all-time great himself, but neither is Gene Fulmer - yet "Sugar" Ray Robinson's one-punch KO of the rock-chinned middleweight added enormously to the original Sugarman's reputation and historical standing. If Pacquiao were to do something similar to Clottey, as Roach has predicted, his fans will also earn even more ammunition to use when arguing their case that Manny is one of the very best of all-time. Bottom line, the fans, of all generations, like to see knockouts; they are impressive.

If Pacquiao can score one on March 13th, chances are it will be a highlight in the video record of the Filipino's achievements for many years to come.

LOS ANGELES (Feb. 4, 2010) – Two-time Olympic champion Guillermo “El Chacal” Rigondeaux, arguably the greatest amateur boxer of all-time, is showing more of his personal side with an announcement that he is donating his entire purse from this Friday night’s fight to the Children of Haiti Fund. Rigondeaux (4-0, 3 KOs), fighting as a super bantamweight, now lives in Los Angeles after defecting from Cuba, where he was a 7-time national champion. The 28-year-old southpaw also won multiple World Championships titles, as well as a gold medal at the 2003 Pan-Am Games, during his incredible 243-4 amateur career.

“Rigo,” who is trained by Freddie Roach and managed by Gary Hyde, faces Adolfo Landeros (20-12-1) in an 8-round bout on ESPN Friday Night Fights, live from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

“Guillermo’s gentle, caring heart will be full of fire Friday night for his fifth pro fight,” Irishman Hyde said. “He really wants to win impressively on ESPN. He definitely hasn’t let fame and all of the attention he’s received to go his head. ‘Rigo’ hasn’t forgotten the poverty he comes from. Hopefully, his thoughtful donation will encourage others to follow suit..”

No stranger to poverty and hard times in his native Cuba, Rigondeaux was deeply saddened by all of the devastation and heartache caused by the recent earthquake in Haiti. “Rigo” was banned from boxing in Cuba when he failed to defect the first time while competing in the 2007 Pan-American Games in Brazil. His low but essential monthly stipend was taken from him for more than two years. He managed to escape from Cuba in February, 2009.

Rigondeaux trains at Roach’s famed Wildcard Gym in Los Angles, under the watchful eyes of his celebrated coach, who calls Guillermo the Picasso of Boxing and one of the most technically sound boxers he has ever seen. “This kid is the master of the noble art,” Roach commented. “He combines his skills with unbelievable power, which isn’t the case very often in smaller weight classes. I have no doubt that he will win at least one world title by the end of this year. Once he cleans-up the 122-pound division, we will move him up to the 126-pound division, where there are some very interesting fights.”

“Rigo” told Hyde that he wanted to donate his purse to the children of Haiti. “I was touched by his sincerity,” Gary explained, “so I contacted Dr. Mick Molloy, a member of the Professional Boxing Union of Ireland, who went to Haiti this past Tuesday to offer his medical services to the victims of the earthquake. Dr. Molloy flew from Miami to Turks and Caico Islands, and then with the U.S. Navy to Haiti. He thanked us for the donation and suggested we do it through the Boston Children’s Foundation (www.BostonCF.org).”

By Harry Walklin - Boxing’s four principle world governing bodies; the World Boxing Council (WBC), World Boxing Association (WBA), World Boxing Organisation (WBO) and the International Boxing Federation (IBF) often list a diverse range of fighters in their rankings and one body’s rankings are often considerably different from that of the next. It can be argued that a fighter’s inclusion and position in these rankings is of vital importance as on the most part it corresponds to their opportunity to fight for a world championship, and the respect, recognition and financial remuneration that comes hand in hand with doing so..

This study has looked into the composition of the above four governing bodies’ rankings to identify the age of the typical fighters included in the rankings, along with whether prior to their current ranking position they had held a world championship. Other variables explored were whether the fighters ranked were undefeated and whether they held one of the governing body’s feeder or area titles (e.g. IBF International, WBO Inter-Continental, WBC Continental Americas and WBA Latin American). It should be recognised that these variables potentially have little or no influence on a fighter’s position or inclusion in the rankings but provide an interesting starting point for such a study.

The data set for this study composed of a governing body’s (WBC/WBA/WBO/IBF) top ten rankings in five different weight classes (Heavyweight, Super Middleweight, Welterweight, Super Featherweight/Junior Lightweight and Bantamweight). For the purpose of the study, a fighter was said to have been a world champion if they had previously held one or more of the WBC/WBA/WBO/IBF world championships in the weight class they were currently ranked in (for the purpose of the study and to simplify the process ‘interim’ championships were not included). A fighter’s area/feeder titles were only recognised if the fighter held such a title, and was ranked by the body that governs the title (e.g. A fighter holding the WBO Inter-Continental title and ranked within the top ten of the WBO’s rankings for the division for which the title relates would be counted).

The results of the study were as follows:

AGE

The average age of fighters in the WBC/WBA/WBO/IBF top ten rankings in the five weight classes analysed was:

World Boxing Council (WBC) – 28.7 years
World Boxing Association (WBA) – 28.8 years
World Boxing Organisation (WBO) – 28.1 years
International Boxing Federation (IBF) – 29.2 years

Average – 28.7 years


UNDEFEATED

The percentage of fighters that were undefeated in the WBC/WBA/WBO/IBF top ten rankings in the five weight classes analysed was:

World Boxing Council (WBC) – 30%
World Boxing Association (WBA) – 31.3%
World Boxing Organisation (WBO) – 34%
International Boxing Federation (IBF) – 18.2%

Average – 28.4%


FORMER WORLD CHAMPION

The percentage of fighters that previously held a world championship in the WBC/WBA/WBO/IBF top ten rankings in the five weight classes analysed was:

World Boxing Council (WBC) – 12%
World Boxing Association (WBA) – 27.1%
World Boxing Organisation (WBO) – 12%
International Boxing Federation (IBF) – 25%

Average – 19%


FEEDER/AREA TITLE

The percentage of fighters that currently hold an area/feeder title in the WBC/WBA/WBO/IBF top ten rankings in the five weight classes analysed was:

World Boxing Council (WBC) – 20%
World Boxing Association (WBA) – 18.8%
World Boxing Organisation (WBO) – 28%
International Boxing Federation (IBF) – 2.3%

Average – 17.3%


Conclusions

The above results highlight that the World Boxing Organisation (WBO) is perhaps more willing to rank fighters that hold its feeder/area titles (28%), whilst the International Boxing Federation (IBF) may put less emphasis on undefeated fighters in their rankings (18.2%). It appears that the World Boxing Association (27.1%) and the International Boxing Federation (25%) find it appropriate to list former world champions in their rankings to a greater extent than the World Boxing Council (12%) and World Boxing Organisation (12%). The ages of the fighters ranked are fairly constant across all four governing bodies.

However, again it must be recognised that such variables are likely to be coincidental and the governing bodies are likely to rank the fighters they see as the most deserving (at the time of rating) regardless of age, record and past and present titles held. The World Boxing Association (WBA) for instance state that their ratings are ‘’based (in no special order) on the boxers’ own calibre, their level of activity, and their level of opponents’’ (World Boxing Association, 2010).

It should also be recognised that there are a number of inherent limitations with my study. Such limitations include:

- Governing bodies such as the WBC/WBA/WBO/IBF rank fifteen fighters in their ratings, yet I only used the top ten in this study – the results may have been different if the full rankings were used

- This study only reflects the fighters that were in the top ten when the rankings were obtained, the rankings are updated frequently by the governing bodies and as a result different fighters with different ages, records and past and present achievements enter and exit the ratings on a frequent basis

- Only five of the seventeen weight classes in boxing were analysed – a more detailed study may unearth different results
However, despite these limitations I hope this research has proved interesting to anyone who has read it.

If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to contact me at: wakkers100@hotmail.com

by James Slater - Power-punching Colombian Edison Miranda was all set to challenge Germany's Robert Stieglitz for the WBO super-middleweight title back in January, only to have to pull out of the fight due to a bout of flu. But "Pantera," as the exciting Miranda is known, has walked right into an even bigger world title fight.

It has been confirmed on ESPN.com that the 29-year-old with the impressive 33-4(29) record will challenge Lucian Bute for the undefeated Canadian's IBF 168-pound title. The fight will take place in Montreal, Canada, on April 17th and HBO will televise live. As exciting as this fight is, there are even more exciting plans afoot for that same night, though..

The plan, according to ESPN.com, is for HBO to add Kelly Pavlik's next fight to the Bute-Miranda fight by way of a huge doubleheader. "The Ghost" may well face the tough Sergio Martinez in April, but that fight is still not a done deal (Pavlik is set to fight on April 17th, in Atlantic City, and Martinez is the favourite to land the fight at the moment). But what a night it will be if this middleweight match-up is made. Indeed, it's tough to say which of the two fights would be the most eagerly anticipated - the 168-pound clash that is signed, or the 160-pound battle that is still being worked on!

Bute, 25-0(20) is a fighter who is rapidly becoming accepted as the best super-middleweight in the world. A fierce body puncher with a great chin and good overall skills, the 29-year-old southpaw has looked sensational in his last two fights. Stopping the dangerous Fulgencio Zuniga in the 4th-round back in March of last year, in what was the third defence of his IBF belt, Bute showed what a hard hitter he is; to the body especially. Then, in a rematch of his highly controversial points win over the teak-tough Librado Andrade, "Le Tombeur" won again via 4th-round stoppage.

Miranda may be the bigger banger of the two men, but going by Bute's recent form, the slightly older man (both men are 29, Miranda is a couple of months older) is up against it. Not only will Miranda be going to Bute's homeland to fight (Miranda's first fight in Canada), but he will be facing a southpaw who is just about at his very peak.

Travelling abroad to fight is nothing that has fazed Miranda in the past, however, and it's unlikely even a hugely pro-Bute crowd will affect the Colombian warrior who has boxed in Germany, the UK and Panama in his time. What might affect the man who has been stopped twice are Bute's fast and accurate punches. This fight has all the makings of a great rumble while it lasts, but to my mind it also has all the makings of a hugely difficult night for Miranda.

This is not to suggest Miranda is not world class - with wins over Allan Green and Howard Eastman to his name, the slugger most certainly is to be respected by all fighters, including Bute. But Miranda's chin has let him down before and he has also been outboxed. Bute, as good a he is, could well win in April by either approach - boxing or slugging.

The first fight with Andrade aside, Bute has won each of his 25 fights in impressive fashion. As dangerous as Miranda is, I think the IBF champ will win in style again in April. Miranda is certainly stronger up at 168 compared to down at 160, a weight he had to struggle to get down to; but there is not enough in his arsenal for him to dethrone the man who was born in Romania.

As he always has done, Miranda will make the fight exciting, maybe even hurting Bute early on in the fight; but eventually Bute will either catch him with sharp and accurate shots and take him out, or he will get into his groove and begin to outclass his man.

Whereas Miranda had an excellent shot at taking Stieglitz' belt in January, "Pantera's" chances do not look half as good in the fight he wound up getting instead.

The always-exciting Edwin Valero will defend his World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight title against undefeated, once-beaten WBC 135-pound interim titleholder Antonio DeMarco in the main event this Saturday, Feb. 6, on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast).

The undefeated knockout artist and two-time world champion Valero (26-0, 26 KOs), of Merida, Venezuela will be making the second defense of his WBC title against Tijuana’s Demarco (23-1-1, 17 KOs), the WBC Interim Champion at the Arena Monterrey located in Mexico.

In the 10-round co-feature, Luis Carlos Abregu (28-0, 23 KOs), of Salta, Argentina will meet Richard Gutierrez (24-3, 14 KO’s), of Miami, Florida, via Arjona, Colombia, in a welterweight bout. The event is promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, LLC and will take place during the celebration of the bicentennial of Mexico’s Independence.

What the fighters and their respective promoters had to say at Wednesday’s final press conference:.

by Stuart Young - Now Hopkins Vs Jones II has finally been signed & sealed after years of speculation, hype, argument & counter-argument between the two respective camps we can now look ahead to the fight & try to determine the winner.

Scheduled for the Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, on 3rd April, the rematch arrives some 17 years after the original bout where a youthful, flashy & brilliant Roy Jones outpointed a rather ‘green’ Bernard Hopkins back in '93 in a clash for the vacant IBF middleweight title..

Since that bout both fighters have gone on to establish themselves as future hall-of-famers. Jones has been up & down the weights classes winning world titles in divisions up to heavyweight, with it, earning himself the reputation as undoubtedly the most talented fighter of the 1990's.

Meanwhile, Hopkins stayed & rebuilt his career as a middleweight, honed & learnt his trade 'on-the-job' eventually emerging as the dominant force in the division after winning the IBF title & defending the title a record 20 times, unifying the division in the process.

While the mid-to-late 2000's heralded the demise of the once formidable Roy Jones, it saw something of a renaissance for Bernard Hopkins.

Jones suffered a pair of defeats at the hands of Antonio Tarver, a brutal KO loss to Glen Johnson followed, before a 12 round beat-down at the fists of Joe Calzaghe & most recently a 1st round KO from hard hitting Australian cruiserweight slugger Danny Green.

There have been flashes of the 'old Roy' with wins over names such as 'Tito' Trinidad & Jeff Lacy but both these opponents were considered 'shot' by many before setting foot in the ring with Roy.

In the same time period we also witnessed the rebirth of Hopkins after many thought was 'done' when he suffered back to back defeats to Jermaine Taylor. Since those controversial losses, Hopkins has rebuilt his career with victories over Antonio Tarver, Ronald 'Winky' Wright & Kelly Pavlik. It’s also worth noting Hopkins was the perceived underdog going into all three of these bouts, with his sole reverse coming via a narrow point's decision to unbeaten Joe Calzaghe.

With the contracts now finally signed & the 50/50 purse agreed upon (with the extra incentive of the victor receiving a 60% cut if he is to win the fight by TKO/KO) you can bet your bottom dollar there is some unfinished business between the two rivals who have often traded verbal insults over the years.

"A rematch with Roy has been in the back of my mind for a long time and it's finally going to happen, I have accomplished a lot in my career since that night in Washington, DC in 1993, and I am going to end this thing between me and Roy once and for all." said Hopkins.

Jones remarked "We're giving the fans what they want to see. They deserve this fight and why not supply the fans with what they demand? Now I can finally terminate 'The Executioner' once and for all. My new nickname for this fight will be 'The Terminator'.

Many ‘experts’ agree with Hopkins viewpoint & come to the conclusion Hopkins will either KO or outpoint Jones with relative ease & the oddsmakers seem to concur, installing Hopkins as a 'hot' favourite.

Most feel that Jones is now nothing more than a spent force & a shell of his former self, looking for one last payday for his retirement fund, while many still view Hopkins as a legitimate threat to the best light-heavyweights on the planet, despite his advanced years, he is still regarded as a genuine top ten P4P fighter.

Whilst I don't think for one second that Jones will 'terminate' "The Executioner" by KO, I do believe he can win the fight. Throughout the ages the sport of boxing is littered with fighters who just have another fighter’s number…. think Forest Vs Mosley or Pryor Vs Arguello or even Ali (Clay) Vs Liston - could 'Superman' Jones hold Hopkins’ kryptonite?

If you take a closer look at Hopkins' recent ring-record you will notice that for his bravado he hasn’t managed a stoppage win over any opponent since Oscar De La Hoya was felled by a cute body shot back in September ’04, & in all reality De La Hoya had no business fighting at middleweight in the first place. Hopkins was also recently forced to go 12 rounds against journeyman Enrique Ornelas, hardly the type of form that inspires confidence in staking your hard-earned money on the Hopkins KO does it?

There is no doubt that Hopkins has aged the better of the two fighters, has suffered less punishment & possesses the sterner chin & more solid peak-a-boo defence, yet there still remains a niggling doubt.

Jones is the younger man by 5 years, is still quicker in both hand & foot, possesses the higher work-rate of the two & has a point to prove with his back being firmly against the wall for this bout. Jones knows that his career has nowhere to go if he was to suffer another "L" to his nemesis "The Executioner".

Anyway, it should make for some interesting viewing & I certainly don't think that it's inconceivable that Jones can pull off the upset & will be having his hand raised at the end of the night as a comfortable point’s winner - stranger things have happened.

boxingchat121@hotmail.co.uk

Undefeated Cork based Cuban sensation Alexei Acosta turns 22 on Saturday week (February 13th) and he'll be hoping for a double celebration when he features on the Yanjing Fight Night at the National Stadium in Dublin. The 2006 World Junior Champion has earned the moniker of “The Hurricane” since turning pro in 2008 and has so far blown away all 9 of his opponents to date leaving a trail of destruction behind him. The Leeside based puncher will be looking to extend his KO record to a perfect 10 in Dublin when he takes on Middlesbrough's Gavin Reid over eight rounds on the undercard of Andy Murray and Oisin Fagan's eagerly awaited Irish title clash..

Acosta has yet to travel beyond three rounds as a pro but the prodigious young talent can expect a stiff task from the durable Reid who has something of a track record for upsetting unbeaten prospects having removed the all important zero from the records of English prospects John Donnelly and Stuart McFadyen.

In his last outing in November bantamweight Acosta took a step up in class but still needed just two rounds to despatch former Bernard Dunne opponent and British and Commonwealth title challenger Sean Hughes.

Acosta's bout with Reid is one of seven fights on the Yanjing Fight Night card with for the first time ever four Irish title fights featured on the same night. The clash between Murray and Fagan headlines while the vacant Irish Heavyweight belt will also be up for grabs when Galway's Coleman Barrett clashes with Dublin's Colin Kenna in the first Irish Heavyweight title fight for lmost 13 years.

Patrick Hyland will make the first defence of his Irish Featherweight title against Mickey Coveney while Anthony Fitzgerald and Lee Murtagh clash for the vacant Irish Super Middleweight title.

Two other non title fights on the bill will see featherweight prospect Willie Casey and new Belfast pro Jamie Conlan looking to extend their unbeaten records.

Tickets for the Yanjing Fight Night priced €30, €40, €50 and €60 are available from Ticketmaster (phone 0818 719 300 or visit ticketmaster.ie) and all usual outlets.


For all the latest visit brianpeterspromotions.com or add us on Facebook.

by James Slater - Right now, as we speak, two heavyweight legends are enjoying each other's company, as they reunite in Tulsa, Oklahoma. For former rivals James Tillis and Earnie Shavers are at the Tillis household, there to celebrate the lifetime achievement award James is to soon be given by the catBox group.

Shavers, who lost a decision to "Quick" in 1982, was kind enough to come to the phone from James' house earlier today, to give me the following interview.

Here is what the man who shared the ring with, amongst others, Muhammad Ali, Larry Holmes, Joe Bugner, Ken Norton, Jimmy Young and Jimmy Ellis had to say:

James Slater: Wow, it's a surprise pleasure to speak with you, Earnie! You are at James Tillis' house now, to see him receive an award?

Earnie Shavers: Yes, I'm a James' house here in Oklahoma now. He deserves that award (from the catBox Group) that was one great fight we had in Vegas in '82..

J.S: I saw it recently. You had him down with a sledgehammer right hand later in the fight! That was some punch!

E.S: Yeah, I think that made him mad though (laughs). James was a very good fighter and that was a great fight also. I knew when I'd lost, and I thought, 'well, it's his time now.'

J.S: Aside from James Tillis fight, you also fought just about everybody in the heavyweight division in the '70s and 80's. We've just watched the "Facing Ali" movie/documentary, which you are in. Where was your segment filmed, Earnie?

E.S: Oh, that was filmed in the UK (where Earnie now lives). That was done about two years ago. I enjoyed talking about the Ali fight.

J.S: I hope they paid you!

E.S: Oh yeah, they paid me (laughs). They filmed me for a few days.

J.S: You had Ali on queer street early in that fight you had with him in 1977 - in the 2nd round I think it was. Did you know he was really hurt?

E.S: Yeah, but he was clever - he got away (laughs). They were all great fights in those days, not jut with Ali. We had [Larry] Holmes back then, Tillis, myself and all those great fighters who were willing to face each other - not like it is today.

J.S: You don't think much of today's heavyweights?

E.S: They're not as dedicated, and it's a shame. I think the fans are getting cheated today. It's not like it was in our day, when there were so many good guys.

J.S: I know you tried a comeback in the mid-1990s - was that because you thought no-one would be able to take your power?

E.S: Yes, I tried a couple of fights in the mid-1990s. I thought there'd be nobody who could stand up to my power. I gave it a shot (Earnie had two fights, winning one and losing another; finally retiring for good in November of '95)

J.S: You had a great career, even though you never became champ - do you have anything you would do differently if you could go back and do it again?

E.S: Yeah, there's a few things actually (laughs). The [second] Larry Holmes fight, when I had him hurt (and down in the 7th-round) , I'd have not wasted as many punches, I'd not have got as excited as I did trying to finish him. I wouldn't have wasted my punches and worn myself out like I did.

J.S: You sound in good shape Earnie, you sound okay. Do you still train though?

E.S: I try to, but it's hard with me being on the road so much. I used to train two to four times a week a while back, and I will try and get back into that when I get back to the UK. I love travelling, though - like now, at James Tillis' house. It's his weekend and he deserves his award. I was talking to some press from the UK recently, and we plan to do some more tours there soon. I get calls all the time, asking me to do this and that, and I'm grateful. Boxing has been good to me and I understand I was from a golden era.

J.S: Well, it's been a pleasure speaking with you, Earnie. The "Facing Ali" film is great and you and Henry Cooper have a lot of interesting things to say in it. Have you seen it yet? I know you star in it!

E.S: No, I haven't seen it yet actually. They said they'd send me a copy soon.

J.S: I'm sure you'll enjoy it, Champ. And enjoy your weekend with the Tillis family. It's been great speaking with you.

E.S: Okay, thank you. And to all my fans in England, I'd like to say hello and thank you, too.

BERLIN (Feb. 4, 2010) — Two undefeated champions battled it out in the Max-Schmeling-Gym on Wednesday afternoon when King Arthur Abraham welcomed a special sparring partner. In order to prepare for the Super Six World Boxing Classic Group Stage 2 meeting with Andre Dirrell on March 6 (live on SHOWTIME® at 9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast), coach Ulli Wegner had invited former WBA/IBF Super-Middleweight Champion Sven Ottke to challenge Abraham. The “Phantom”, who retired undefeated in 2004, is known for his fast legs and special movements. “Sven can help Arthur in the preparation for Dirrell,” Wegner said. “Arthur will have to track Dirrell down. That´s why sparring with a fast, smart and clever fighter like Sven certainly helps..”

SANTA YNEZ, Calif. (Feb. 4, 2010) -- Promising Freddy “El Riel’’ Hernandez (27-1, 18 KOs), of Lynwood, Calif., will take on former world champion, southpaw DeMarcus “Chop Chop’’ Corley (36-12-1, 21 KOs), of Washington, D.C., in the 10-round welterweight main event on ShoBox: The New Generation tomorrow/Friday, Feb. 5, on SHOWTIME® (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast). In the co-feature at Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, Calif., hard-hitting, undefeated Dominican Francisco Contreras (12-0, 11 KOs), of Livingston, N.J., should get what definitely will be the toughest test of his career when he faces Juan Castaneda, Jr. (16-2, 12 KOs), of La Paz, Mexico, in an eight-round junior welterweight bout..

A winner of four in a row, Hernandez, who was born in Mexico City, is 10-0 with one No Contest dating to February 2005. The No. 14-ranked contender in the World Boxing Council (WBC) scored a convincing, unanimous 10-round decision over then-once-beaten southpaw Damian Frias Oct. 23, 2009 on ShoBox.

Corley, a former World Boxing Organization (WBO) 140-pound titleholder, has fought some of the best in the world including past and current world champions Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, Devon Alexander, Junior Witter and Jose Alfaro. Corley seldom gets the benefit of the doubt in close affairs. One-third of his defeats have come on split decisions.

Contreras, who has been virtually untested since turning pro in February 2007, is stepping up in class against the aggressive-minded Castaneda, who is 12-0 since suffering his last loss to Antonio DeMarco on May 2, 2008, at Chumash, on ShoBox.

The current WBC interim lightweight belt-holder, DeMarco challenges WBC 135-pound world champion Edwin Valero in the main event on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING this Saturday, Feb. 6, on SHOWTIME®.

WEIGHTS -- Hernandez weighed 148 pounds; Corley 143. Contreras tipped scale at 136½ pounds; Castaneda 137 (on his second attempt).

LAS VEGAS (February 3, 2010) - It's official. Boxing's biggest superstar and six-time world champion Floyd "Money" Mayweather made his upcoming fight with welterweight mega-star and five-time world champion Sugar Shane Mosley, official today when he signed the contract that pits the two fighters against each other on Saturday, May 1 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas in a mega-bout which will be televised live on HBO Pay-Per-View®.

"This one is definitely for the fans as I wasn't going to waste anyone's time with a meaningless tune-up bout and asked to fight Shane immediately," said Mayweather. "I have said ever since I came back to the sport that I only wanted to fight the best. I think Shane is one of the best, but come May 1, he still won't be great enough to beat me.."

"I have always wanted to fight Floyd and now it is finally coming true," said Mosley, who signed his side of the deal last Friday in Las Vegas. "I am already in great shape and ready to show everyone on May 1 that I am stronger, faster and better than he is. I will have no problem beating him."

In addition to the fight being one of the most competitive and talked about contests in each of the fighters' careers, Mayweather and Mosley have agreed to Olympic-style drug testing for the fight.

"Floyd has been trying to make this fight for the last 10 years, so he is extremely excited about the opportunity to face Shane," said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO, Mayweather Promotions. "He can't wait to extend his undefeated record and perform at the highest level. More importantly, he is also happy to set the precedent for random blood testing in order to ensure fair and safe contests for all fighters."

"When two champions of this caliber meet in the ring, you can expect nothing but excellence and that is what we are going to see on May 1," said Richard Schaefer, CEO, Golden Boy Promotions. "Shane Mosley is one of the greatest fighters of this era and I commend him for not only agreeing to the fight against Mayweather, but also agreeing to participate in a testing process that can only help the integrity of the sport."

"Mayweather-Mosley is a showdown of superstars that fans have been talking about for years", said Mark Taffet of HBO Pay-Per-View. "It has all the elements of a pay-per-view mega-fight."

A 1996 Olympic Bronze medalist for the United States, Floyd Mayweather (40-0, 25 KO's) has since gone on to strike Gold in the professional ranks, winning six world titles in five weight classes to firmly establish himself as one of the most elite fighters of his era. With dominating wins over the likes of world champions Diego Corrales, Jose Luis Castillo, Arturo Gatti, Zab Judah, Oscar de la Hoya and Ricky Hatton, Mayweather was on a meteoric rise to hall of fame greatness when he announced his retirement from the ring in 2008. But he left the door open for a return if the right challenge presented itself and after 18 months of a much needed physical and emotional break from the ring, he returned to boxing on September 19, 2009 with a dominating and spectacular victory over future Hall of Famer Juan Manuel Marquez.

A future Hall of Famer with five world titles to his name, Shane Mosley (46-5, 39 KO's) has ruled the lightweight, welterweight and junior middleweight divisions over his storied 16-year career and at 38 years old, the Pomona, Calif. native seems to be getting better and better as the years pass. Winner of seven of his last eight fights dating back to 2005, Mosley has defeated the likes of Fernando Vargas (twice), Luis Collazo and Ricardo Mayorga, but his most recent victory also was one of his most spectacular -- a ninth round stoppage of Antonio Margarito in January 2009 to win the welterweight world title for the third time.

The 12-round welterweight battle is a highly competitive match-up that already has sports fans across the world buzzing to see two of the sport's biggest names meet in the squared circle in the premier boxing match-up of 2010.

More information on Mayweather vs. Mosley, including ticket prices, HBO Pay- Per- View information and press tour dates and cities, will be announced shortly.

by James Slater - There is the quite tantalising possibility that crowd-pleasers Michael Katsidis and Robert Guerrero will clash on March 27th, in a fight that will contest the WBO's interim lightweight title currently held by the man from Australia. Up as happening on BoxRec, Katsidis-Guerrero may also be supported by another potentially exciting fight, in Marcos Maidana defending his interim WBA 140-pound belt against the undefeated Victor Manuel Cayo. A great doubleheader, to be sure; if it happens.

The Katsidis-Guerrero fight has the look of a very good battle. Though the warrior from Toowoomba in Australia had his heart set on a fight with "real" WBO 135-pound champ Juan Manuel Marquez, it looks now as though Amir Khan will get that fight (talks are ongoing for Khan-Marquez to take place, up at 140, on May 15th in Vegas).. But if Katsidis gets Guerrero instead, he will have himself a damn good opponent anyway. Who wins?

Guerrero, the second world class boxer who goes today by the nickname of "The Ghost," would be having his first big fight up at lightweight. The former IBF featherweight champion boxed up at 135-pounds two fights ago, when he forced Efren Hinojosa to retire after 8-rounds back in June of last year. In his next bout, the 25-1-1(17) 26-year-old dropped down to 130-pound to successfully challenge IBF super-featherweight champion Malcolm Klassen - out-pointing Klassen in August. Now Guerreo is on the verge of moving up in search of his third championship belt.

Katsidis, 26-2(21) has won three in a row since his loss to Juan Diaz; winning the interim WBO strap last time out by out-pointing Vicente Escobedo back in September. Stopped just one time as a pro, by Joel Casamayor in a real thriller, Katsidis will no doubt fancy his chances against the naturally smaller man (although, according to Boxrec, Guerrero is the slightly taller man).

Guerrero, who has never been halted as a pro, is also a southpaw, however, and the last time Katsidis faced a lefty he lost. Guerrero is no Casamayor, but he is a good boxer, he is the younger man and he has less wear and tear on his body than does "The Great." Despite the possible advantages Guerrero has, though, Katsidis has possible advantages of his own. A harder hitter than his prospective challenger, Katsidis is also the proven man at 135-pounds. In fact, this fight is such an evenly matched affair it's incredibly tough to pick out a winner.

Sure to be a really enjoyable tussle, the styles of the two men could possibly even see to it that we get a fight of the year candidate on March 27th (if, of course, the fight goes ahead). Katsidis has already delivered in this department at least three times - against Casamayor, against Czar Amonsot and against Graham Earl - while Guerrero has yet to give his fans a thriller the calibre of those three epics. This could very well change next month.

As close to a 50-50 fight as you could probably imagine, fans of both men will be in no way sure who wins. I go for the proven lightweight to prevail by close decision in a fine fight, but Katsidis may have to get up from a knockdown or two along the way. The fresher man in Guerrero could also find himself on the mat at some stage.

Tony Dodson says his British super-middleweight title fight with Paul Smith is "personal". Dodson, 29, challenges Smith on March 12 at the Liverpool Echo Arena in an all-scouse affair. And in a hard-hitting interview he has revealed that he is desperate to beat the man he used to be close friends with.

Dodson says he has been "disrespectful" and "nasty" in the build up to their fight.

"Paul and I go back a long way," said former British champion Dodson. "When I first turned professional he used to come to the gym and lace up my gloves..

"He was a lovely young kid and I really liked him.

"When he was on the Contender in the States I texted him all the time and told him how great it was for Liverpool that he was doing well.

"I even helped him before one of his early fights and sparred with him when I hadn't been in the gym and was weighing about 14 stone.

"But since he moved to super-middleweight our friendship has turned sour and he's been making nasty remarks which are completely uncalled for.

"I don't know if it's because we were always on a collision course once he moved to 12 stone, but unless he changes his attitude we won't be speaking after the fight either.

"This one has definitely got personal. The way he has spoken about me has been disrespectful. He's been talking about me like he's never known me.

"I respect him as a fighter. He's British champion and that demands respect.

"But I'll beat him because I'll be too big, too strong and too damn good.

"He's come up from a buzzing middleweight division because he thinks he'll get more opportunities at super-middleweight.

"But he got bullied by Tony Quigley and he'll get bullied by me.

"I absolutely dominated Tony Quigley until the last 60 seconds of our fight, so I don't see Paul beating me.

"And I can absolutely guarantee that this fight will be explosive. We've sparred before and our styles gelled, so this one is definitely going to be a thriller."


NIGHT OF THE CHAMPIONS: COX KEEPS HEAT ON BROOK

Hot prospect Jamie Cox says he's tight on the heels of British welterweight champion Kell Brook.

Cox, who won gold at the 2006 Commonwealth Games, makes his 14th professional appearance on February 13 at Wembley Arena.

And the Swindon hotshot, who has remained unbeaten since turning professional in 2007, says he wants to challenge Brook by the end of the year.

"All I hear about at the moment is how good Brook is," said the 23-year-old.

"He's a decent fighter but I'm itching to show exactly what I can do.

"I've been chasing Brook ever since he won the British title in 2008, and I'm just hoping that I get the chance to expose him while he's still got the belt.

"If not then I'll have to go after him when he's got to world level, but whatever happens, he's a man I badly want to face.

"I know just how to beat him and I'm going to keep on asking my promoter Frank Warren for the chance to fight him until he gives it to me."

Cox has blitzed eight of his 13 victims, and believes that 2010 will see him make significant strides forward.

"I want to be a championship fighter by the end of the year, whether it's Brook in the opposite corner of someone else," he said.

"I feel ready to make that step up in class and fight for the English or British title.

"There's some good lads at welterweight at the moment, and if the fight with Brook doesn't come off then I'd fancy a crack at anyone else in the division."

Tickets priced at £40, £50, £75, £100 and £150, are available from:

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By Harold Kupel: Freddie Roach, the trainer of World Boxing Association light welterweight champion Amir Khan, is seemingly very confident of the 23-year-old Khan’s chances against Juan Manuel Marquez ahead of their planned May 15th bout. In an article with the Telegraph, Roach says “Amir will do to him [Marquez] what he did to Marco Antonio Barrera in Manchester last year. He’ll [Khan] break him up.”

Khan defeated the 35-year-old Barrera by a 5 round technical decision in March 2009, a fight that pleased few fans because of the ending of it. Khan controlled almost every second of action against the former super featherweight star, but the bout was stopped in the 5th round because of a nasty head butt that opened up a huge cut on Barrera’s forehead. Barrera bled from the 1st round on until the fight was stopped.

Khan needs a victory over an old star like Marquez to help make a name for himself in the United States. Khan has fought his entire career in England, and only recently has decided to come over to the U.S. to try and become a star there.. Rather than fighting WBA light welterweight interim champion Marcos Maidana, who the WBA has ordered Khan to fight, Amir has decided to skip that fight – at least for the time being – to take on the much better known Marquez.

Golden Boy Promotions CEO Richard Schaefer reports that the Khan-Marquez fight could be signed without 48 hour. If so, Khan will have a huge fight put on his plate for his debut fight. It’s an excellent fight for the young Khan, because he would be benefiting greatly by fighting a popular fighter like Marquez without having the risk involved with fighting a big puncher like Maidana or the superb boxing skills of light welterweight champions Timothy Bradley and Devon Alexander. Marquez looked less than impressive in his recent loss to Floyd Mayweather Jr.

The hopes obviously on Khan’s management’s part is that Marquez has slipped enough to the point where he won’t destroy Khan the way he likely would have three years ago. It’s still a very dangerous fight for Khan, because he has a history of having a weak chin and Marquez is an excellent counter puncher. If he can connect with a counter shot after one of Khan’s flurries, Marquez has an excellent chance of hurting Khan. However, Marquez is going to have to stay on top of Khan, because he’s become more of a mover now that he’s trained by Roach.

If Khan can get by Marquez, his management hopes to get him another fight against an old lion like Zab Judah and then eventually a shot against Mayweather. They say they want to set up a fight against Maidana in the near future, but it’s hard to imagine that they will ever take that risk of putting Khan in with a big puncher like Maidana.